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Dirty Takedown
Amarie Avant presents a steamy, witty romance between a UFC fighter and a kick-ass black heroine! RENEE RILEY I’m at the pinnacle of my career, and I don't have time for games. Not even training matches between the MMA fighters at my family’s famous gym. But when my brother’s enemy wipes the floor with him, I want no parts of it. It’s just a game. Until the muscular god, with intense dark eyes, makes me his enemy too. I’m ashamed to admit, it’s gotten dirty between Jhang and I. JHANG LI I’m the king of the octagon and lack a worthy adversary. I’ve got a vice-grip on my championship belt. But when Renee Riley returns to town, I devise a plan to make her family pay for their sins. The tiny, feisty beauty will be the easiest takedown ever. I’ll worship my enemy’s sister for now. Renee can hate me tomorrow.
109 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 28, 2021
100 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Amarie Avant
54 books660 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling Author Amarie Avant focuses on writing romantic suspense, contemporary romance, dark romance with the occasional redeemable anti-hero.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 23, 2022
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: MMA Romance (IR)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy & Fighter
Series:
Pages: 109
Audio: GOOD (m) FAIR (f)
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
The plot was tempting and interest me. I actually liked Jhang. He made my interest heighten in this story. His background was appealing. Renee was, Renee. I like the scenes with her and Jhang.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
The last book I read by the author, evoked the same thoughts, for this book and even with audio, it was the flow of the story. I think it’s a me thing not necessarily an author thing. The flow of the story and dialogue is where I had a me thing. Jhang was ok, but it was mainly Renee. Even with the audio, I did not think the female narrator did the audio right for Renee. At times she made her sound like a teenager as well. I read Fearless by the author a few years back and really loved that book, I just don’t know but the writing seems different to me and maybe that’s not why I am not connecting to the stories.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
Sex scenes were satisfactory.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
I like Renee’s family, mainly her mother. Felt bad for Renee’s friend. Her brother treats her not the best.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? It was so so. Did I like the story? Yes. Would I read the other books in the series? Not sure if this is or will be a series.
TRIGGERS:
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: MMA Romance (IR)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: No
Violence: No
Male: Sexy & Fighter
Series:
Pages: 109
Audio: GOOD (m) FAIR (f)
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
The plot was tempting and interest me. I actually liked Jhang. He made my interest heighten in this story. His background was appealing. Renee was, Renee. I like the scenes with her and Jhang.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
The last book I read by the author, evoked the same thoughts, for this book and even with audio, it was the flow of the story. I think it’s a me thing not necessarily an author thing. The flow of the story and dialogue is where I had a me thing. Jhang was ok, but it was mainly Renee. Even with the audio, I did not think the female narrator did the audio right for Renee. At times she made her sound like a teenager as well. I read Fearless by the author a few years back and really loved that book, I just don’t know but the writing seems different to me and maybe that’s not why I am not connecting to the stories.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
Sex scenes were satisfactory.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
I like Renee’s family, mainly her mother. Felt bad for Renee’s friend. Her brother treats her not the best.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? It was so so. Did I like the story? Yes. Would I read the other books in the series? Not sure if this is or will be a series.
TRIGGERS:
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
January 7, 2022
Love trumps a family squabble
Jhang pulled an okey-doke on Renee Riley. She thought his name was Nezha from their one-night stand when his real identity was revealed when he beat her brother Malcolm in an M MA cage. Their ongoing feud since high school was based on a lie and racist ideas. But as much as Renee tried to keep love out of her life because of her health, Jhang would not let her go. It was time for the entire family feud to end. He accepted all of her despite her brother and cousin and loved her even more. He needed her in his life and wanted a forever future with her.
I did not feel these characters as a couple but I had deep respect for Jhang and what he endured as a child of the foster system and how he rose above it. Even though he was raised in the foster system Dao was the closest he had to a real father who stayed in his life. Renee used her skills as a nurse to help others suffering the same health challenge as she had, which was great. But she was so afraid to love which made her come off as cold, until she fell for Jhang who would not let her push him away.
NOTE: This story was read using a Kindle in conjunction with Audible.com. The narrators Xenia Willacey and John Joseph Rogers were good. I especially liked John Rogers' voice and how he did a very believable Chinese accent.
Jhang pulled an okey-doke on Renee Riley. She thought his name was Nezha from their one-night stand when his real identity was revealed when he beat her brother Malcolm in an M MA cage. Their ongoing feud since high school was based on a lie and racist ideas. But as much as Renee tried to keep love out of her life because of her health, Jhang would not let her go. It was time for the entire family feud to end. He accepted all of her despite her brother and cousin and loved her even more. He needed her in his life and wanted a forever future with her.
I did not feel these characters as a couple but I had deep respect for Jhang and what he endured as a child of the foster system and how he rose above it. Even though he was raised in the foster system Dao was the closest he had to a real father who stayed in his life. Renee used her skills as a nurse to help others suffering the same health challenge as she had, which was great. But she was so afraid to love which made her come off as cold, until she fell for Jhang who would not let her push him away.
NOTE: This story was read using a Kindle in conjunction with Audible.com. The narrators Xenia Willacey and John Joseph Rogers were good. I especially liked John Rogers' voice and how he did a very believable Chinese accent.
January 23, 2022
Ok
This was OK I was looking for a little bit more. Her books are always good. I would recommend this book
This was OK I was looking for a little bit more. Her books are always good. I would recommend this book
July 16, 2025
I loved Jhang & Renee’s story at first I thought I was reading River’s and Tatem’s story. I love MMA stories. Jhang gets his family and Renee makes people stop calling her little 🤣🤣🤣🤣
January 9, 2022
Title: Dirty Takedown
Author: Amarie Avant
Publisher: A. A.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Dirty Takedown: AmBw Standalone Enemies-to-Lovers Romance" By: Amarie Avant
My Assessment:
The title says it all in how these two Jhang and Renee got together, with the MMA fighter meeting the traveling nurse. From a one-night encounter that was supposed to be just one night, but fate had a way of turning things around for them. This situation was definitely out of the norm for Renee, and it turned out revenge on Jhang's part. Why did Jhang want revenge on this family? You will have to pick up this good read to find out.
The author did an excellent job of bringing out Renee's sickle cell situation. Unfortunately, the story ended rather quickly, so I am sure there will be more about this family series, especially Malcolm and maybe even Nicolette. Thank goodness Renee had support from her mom that added calmness to this situation.
All in all, this was an excellent AMBW read.
December 31, 2021
Short and beautiful
Dirty Takedown was short, sweet, to the point and educational. I was today years old when I learned that there are more than one type of sickle cell, I’m really happy Amarie shed some light on that.
I loved the fact that Jhang wasn’t a cliche male who beat around the bush when he realized his feelings for Renee. He embraced her and what she thought was going to be a deal breaker (her disease) with open arms.
All in all, this book was different from the author’s usual books and I must say I enjoyed it from the beginning right until the end , and even thought these was initially drama between them, I’m happy that it didn’t override Jhang and Renee’s story.
This will definitely be on my reread list .
Dirty Takedown was short, sweet, to the point and educational. I was today years old when I learned that there are more than one type of sickle cell, I’m really happy Amarie shed some light on that.
I loved the fact that Jhang wasn’t a cliche male who beat around the bush when he realized his feelings for Renee. He embraced her and what she thought was going to be a deal breaker (her disease) with open arms.
All in all, this book was different from the author’s usual books and I must say I enjoyed it from the beginning right until the end , and even thought these was initially drama between them, I’m happy that it didn’t override Jhang and Renee’s story.
This will definitely be on my reread list .
January 17, 2022
Wanted More-But It Was Fun
I have been thinking about this review since finishing this story and I've come to the conclusion that its just what I feel. I have read quote a few stories from this writer and I have to say that ,the magic that's usually present is missing. In the beginning we are introduced to the characters and we get that sexy chemistry between the two,but somewhere along the way it fizzles out. The writer doesn't involve is in the lives of these characters so we don't get a connection. Also there are some missed opportunities to have more dialogue but it gets lost in the story being rushed.This was such a good storyline but its not given enough attention. Overall it was a what it set out to do.and that's entertain
I have been thinking about this review since finishing this story and I've come to the conclusion that its just what I feel. I have read quote a few stories from this writer and I have to say that ,the magic that's usually present is missing. In the beginning we are introduced to the characters and we get that sexy chemistry between the two,but somewhere along the way it fizzles out. The writer doesn't involve is in the lives of these characters so we don't get a connection. Also there are some missed opportunities to have more dialogue but it gets lost in the story being rushed.This was such a good storyline but its not given enough attention. Overall it was a what it set out to do.and that's entertain
January 2, 2022
Renee Riley has spent her life running from love because of the inevitable heartbreak. Jhang Li has fought love due to being in love with his enemy’s sister. Eventually they’ll have to get over that together.
This is actually the prequel to Avant’s Fear None, as it deals with one of the main character’s parents. And if you’ve read Bad For You, you might know the story, but not all of it. It’s nice though, I wanted to see more of the couple by the end.
If you like enemies to lovers, terminal illnesses, and people who fight, this one is definitely for you. Also, Amarie Avant definitely likes people who fight.
This is actually the prequel to Avant’s Fear None, as it deals with one of the main character’s parents. And if you’ve read Bad For You, you might know the story, but not all of it. It’s nice though, I wanted to see more of the couple by the end.
If you like enemies to lovers, terminal illnesses, and people who fight, this one is definitely for you. Also, Amarie Avant definitely likes people who fight.
March 31, 2023
the parents of the next line
Jhang was ready for some payback. He was not apologetic about how he did it either. Was he looking to fall in love with her? That was not clear but love is what they got. Rene and Jhang had some explosive chemistry. They were meant to be together. They had to get past a few barriers. That’s were things are not so clear. Rene’s brother and cousin wee dicks. And the explanation did not sound all true. It may or may not have been more there.
I can say this. I am looking forward to Tatum and Fear None and Fear Me. I have them on the TBRL for consumption soon.
Jhang was ready for some payback. He was not apologetic about how he did it either. Was he looking to fall in love with her? That was not clear but love is what they got. Rene and Jhang had some explosive chemistry. They were meant to be together. They had to get past a few barriers. That’s were things are not so clear. Rene’s brother and cousin wee dicks. And the explanation did not sound all true. It may or may not have been more there.
I can say this. I am looking forward to Tatum and Fear None and Fear Me. I have them on the TBRL for consumption soon.
January 3, 2022
Refreshing
This book hit different for me because I know first hand what Renee went through. It is very refreshing to see a character with SCD especially since its rarely seen in literature, television and films. I also appreciate the author's decision to acknowledge to two types of SCD. *Spoiler Alert* Knowing the outcome of Jhang and Renee's relationship is heartbreaking but I look forward to seeing how Amarie depicts their end. Thank you Amarie for this story. Representation matters.
This book hit different for me because I know first hand what Renee went through. It is very refreshing to see a character with SCD especially since its rarely seen in literature, television and films. I also appreciate the author's decision to acknowledge to two types of SCD. *Spoiler Alert* Knowing the outcome of Jhang and Renee's relationship is heartbreaking but I look forward to seeing how Amarie depicts their end. Thank you Amarie for this story. Representation matters.
February 12, 2022
BEAUTIFUL!!!
This was such a beautiful love story of Jhang and Renee. Renee comes from a fighter related family, so she's well aware of the in and outs of what it entails. Then there's Jhang who's working towards entering the fighting world and is getting a hard time to move forward especially by Renee's brother Malcolm. Jhang has a lot to deal with and has overcome as well. This storyboard is filled with drama, humour and life lessons to keep you reading till the end. Let's not forget about the other characters as well especially old man Bao.
This was such a beautiful love story of Jhang and Renee. Renee comes from a fighter related family, so she's well aware of the in and outs of what it entails. Then there's Jhang who's working towards entering the fighting world and is getting a hard time to move forward especially by Renee's brother Malcolm. Jhang has a lot to deal with and has overcome as well. This storyboard is filled with drama, humour and life lessons to keep you reading till the end. Let's not forget about the other characters as well especially old man Bao.
June 14, 2022
Jhang and Renee love story was very intense. Jhang had played Renee like a fine tuned guitar . I felt bad for Renee and I didn't like Jhang at first but then I started to like him. This story was so good that it caught my eye from the first page and I didn't want to put it down. The author had the characters well written and the scenes in the book made you feel like you were right there with the characters. I really enjoyed reading about Jhang and Renee's story. I definitely recommend this book and I look forward to her next book.
December 29, 2021
This book was short, but everything fit into place with the story. I have read most of Amarie Avant's books and this one is yet another good to add to the list!
Jhang and Renee had history,! When they encounter each other one night its suppose to be a one night stand ( her going outside of her normal and revenge on his part). However fate has much more planned for them. Its a story that is short but steamy and sweet.
Jhang and Renee had history,! When they encounter each other one night its suppose to be a one night stand ( her going outside of her normal and revenge on his part). However fate has much more planned for them. Its a story that is short but steamy and sweet.
December 30, 2021
great book
Imagine meeting a guy who you think you know but not sure but you know you have a attraction that can’t be deny so one thing leads to another and you have a love connection like no other then to find out said guy had a agenda against your brother that really had nothing to do with you but he put you in it anyways then he finds out he loves you and you have secrets of your own but lucky for you your mom is your Cupid this was a great book
Imagine meeting a guy who you think you know but not sure but you know you have a attraction that can’t be deny so one thing leads to another and you have a love connection like no other then to find out said guy had a agenda against your brother that really had nothing to do with you but he put you in it anyways then he finds out he loves you and you have secrets of your own but lucky for you your mom is your Cupid this was a great book
January 2, 2022
Love TKO!
This prequel, of sorts, circa 2007, was short, but packed enough punch so that one didn't feel like any part of the story was left out. Jhang and Renee were supposed to be enemies because Jhang was a member of the Slaughterhouse gym and Renee's father (and former MMA champion) ran Riley's MMA. So basically, theirs is the Romeo and Juliet story of the MMA world! Loved this story!
This prequel, of sorts, circa 2007, was short, but packed enough punch so that one didn't feel like any part of the story was left out. Jhang and Renee were supposed to be enemies because Jhang was a member of the Slaughterhouse gym and Renee's father (and former MMA champion) ran Riley's MMA. So basically, theirs is the Romeo and Juliet story of the MMA world! Loved this story!
May 10, 2022
Love Matters
Jhang grew up in the foster care system. He has always felt less then until he enter the world of MMA fighting. Yet none of that matters as he loses what could have been a love to hold on to. Renee has always felt like she didn't deserve a forever love because of a personal issue. Two people each thinking they aren't good enough will find they have more in common & that they deserve love & happiness. Enjoy.
Jhang grew up in the foster care system. He has always felt less then until he enter the world of MMA fighting. Yet none of that matters as he loses what could have been a love to hold on to. Renee has always felt like she didn't deserve a forever love because of a personal issue. Two people each thinking they aren't good enough will find they have more in common & that they deserve love & happiness. Enjoy.
December 30, 2021
Great read
My only complain was that I was short... But its good to see coach Jhang in his younger days. I have started to read more of this authors' work and she doesn't disappoint.I really wished I could see what happened with the birth of Tatum. I love that Renee rode for her man and you can't ask for anything better. Read this although short you won't be disappointed.
My only complain was that I was short... But its good to see coach Jhang in his younger days. I have started to read more of this authors' work and she doesn't disappoint.I really wished I could see what happened with the birth of Tatum. I love that Renee rode for her man and you can't ask for anything better. Read this although short you won't be disappointed.
January 2, 2022
I have both read and listened to the audible version of this book. MMA fighter meets travelling nurse. They are on opposing teams. Choosing who to love should not be this hard or an exercise in family loyalty. But it is for Zhang Li and Renee. How are they going to navigate the turbulent waters ahead and still keep they heads above water. A nice AMBW read.
January 9, 2022
Down and Out
Renee and Jhang meet at a club and fall into bed the same night. She didn't know who he was, but he knew who she was, sister to a man he hated Malcolm. She finds out who he is when he fights her brother in a cage fight and wins. I didn't like the she gave in so quick and continued to have a relationship with a man that hated her family. In the end things worked out.
Renee and Jhang meet at a club and fall into bed the same night. She didn't know who he was, but he knew who she was, sister to a man he hated Malcolm. She finds out who he is when he fights her brother in a cage fight and wins. I didn't like the she gave in so quick and continued to have a relationship with a man that hated her family. In the end things worked out.
January 24, 2022
Short and Sweet
This story was short and sweet. I wasn't sure I was going to like it at first with how Jhang tricked Rennee, but their hateful banter kept me engaged. I would have loved to see how he handled finding out about her sickness and joining a family he was trying to destroy a bit more.
This story was short and sweet. I wasn't sure I was going to like it at first with how Jhang tricked Rennee, but their hateful banter kept me engaged. I would have loved to see how he handled finding out about her sickness and joining a family he was trying to destroy a bit more.
February 4, 2022
Another Stella book by the fabulous Amarie Avant, this was a quick easy read.. some things was funny lol but I’ve known ppl that suffer from sickle cell and my hearts goes out to them.. I’m glad momma Riley texted Jhang so Renee can tell him the truth . Well done can’t wait for the next blockbuster hit.
February 13, 2022
Beautiful
The beginning of the story was a little rocky, but it smoothed out. Jhang was so full of hate and anger because of past wrongs and racial prejudice. He had a lot to learn about himself as well as Renee being stronger and taking the chance at love and a family knowing there is a chance she won't see her children grow up.
The beginning of the story was a little rocky, but it smoothed out. Jhang was so full of hate and anger because of past wrongs and racial prejudice. He had a lot to learn about himself as well as Renee being stronger and taking the chance at love and a family knowing there is a chance she won't see her children grow up.
March 4, 2022
What Would You Do?
Jhang and Renee were enemies by default.....
A supposed one night stand turned out to be sleeping with the Enemy!!
As the two embark on their own journey of discovery. They find a connection.
The Author does amazing job of weaving the story amongst the characters.
My first AmBw read and I loved it!!
Jhang and Renee were enemies by default.....
A supposed one night stand turned out to be sleeping with the Enemy!!
As the two embark on their own journey of discovery. They find a connection.
The Author does amazing job of weaving the story amongst the characters.
My first AmBw read and I loved it!!
August 29, 2023
2.5 stars
Not only was this book cringey with the dialogue, the sex scenes, and the terrible nickname, the charactization was just awfully done. The enemies to lovers aspects happened to quickly and make no sense that they would have stayed in love with this man knowing he was her brother's bully.
Not only was this book cringey with the dialogue, the sex scenes, and the terrible nickname, the charactization was just awfully done. The enemies to lovers aspects happened to quickly and make no sense that they would have stayed in love with this man knowing he was her brother's bully.
September 9, 2023
The only word I have to describe this book is discombobulated. Literally this book was all over the place and made no sense. From the beginning to the end I was confused. I don't know what kind of style the author was going for when writing this story but she didn't succeed. All you get is a novella that's a disconcerted mess. This was a very underwhelming read.
December 29, 2021
Love it!!
MMA AMBW romance. Loved Jhang and Renee. What happens when the sexy guy you hook up with has a grudge against your brother and then they fight??? Lots of rough smexy times and getting in where you fittin in!! Another winner from Amarie Avant!!
MMA AMBW romance. Loved Jhang and Renee. What happens when the sexy guy you hook up with has a grudge against your brother and then they fight??? Lots of rough smexy times and getting in where you fittin in!! Another winner from Amarie Avant!!
December 29, 2021
I love Amarie's books, she is one of my go to authors. I know if she wrote it I will love it this book was no exception! I do have one complaint it was too short😊! I loved the characters and wanted more!
December 30, 2021
Really Good
I loved this book so much that I wished it was longer. I would have loved more details about their back story but all in all I enjoyed the chemistry between Renee and Jhang.
I loved this book so much that I wished it was longer. I would have loved more details about their back story but all in all I enjoyed the chemistry between Renee and Jhang.
January 31, 2022
Cute and simple
This was a very easy quick read. I love enemies to lovers my favorite. This is a cute Reed very short. I love in a racial relationship anytime the woman is African American I'm here for it.
This was a very easy quick read. I love enemies to lovers my favorite. This is a cute Reed very short. I love in a racial relationship anytime the woman is African American I'm here for it.
February 19, 2022
No.. Just No!
The premise of this book is amazing but the execution is nonsense. Most of this book I didn’t even understand what I was reading. The writing is just bad. The dialogue is just bad. The book is just bad. 1 ⭐️ and I’m being generous.
The premise of this book is amazing but the execution is nonsense. Most of this book I didn’t even understand what I was reading. The writing is just bad. The dialogue is just bad. The book is just bad. 1 ⭐️ and I’m being generous.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews