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Fighting for Love
Fighting Temptation
If he doesn't shut his mouth, I might just do it for him. The only problem is I don’t know whether to kiss him or punch him.
Theodore
College can't last forever, but it was nice getting a taste of freedom. I'm back home again, living in my childhood room, and having to put up with the golden child, Cypress. I don't know what's worse, walking in on them with my friend or being forced to share a bedroom. It'd be less confusing if they weren't so pretty.
Cypress
What's Theo's problem? Ever since his dad started dating my mom, he's been a total jerk. The last four years he's been off at college were a welcome relief. As far as I'm concerned, the sooner he gets a job and moves out the better. I'm too busy with MMA and college classes to deal with his mess.
Fighting Temptation is a standalone MX romance novella in the multi-author series Fighting for Love. All the stories take place at the shared gym, Knockout MMA Training Facility. At the Knockout Gym, happily ever afters are hard-won. Step-siblings go from rivals to lovers in this bi-awakening, forced proximity romance.
Theodore
College can't last forever, but it was nice getting a taste of freedom. I'm back home again, living in my childhood room, and having to put up with the golden child, Cypress. I don't know what's worse, walking in on them with my friend or being forced to share a bedroom. It'd be less confusing if they weren't so pretty.
Cypress
What's Theo's problem? Ever since his dad started dating my mom, he's been a total jerk. The last four years he's been off at college were a welcome relief. As far as I'm concerned, the sooner he gets a job and moves out the better. I'm too busy with MMA and college classes to deal with his mess.
Fighting Temptation is a standalone MX romance novella in the multi-author series Fighting for Love. All the stories take place at the shared gym, Knockout MMA Training Facility. At the Knockout Gym, happily ever afters are hard-won. Step-siblings go from rivals to lovers in this bi-awakening, forced proximity romance.
179 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2024
About the author
A.E. Madsen
10 books66 followersA. E. Madsen(they/them) is a stay-at-home parent and loving spouse. They live in California with their three children. A. has degrees in culinary arts and business management that have nothing to do with writing gay romance. They started writing gay romance in an attempt to better understand their gender identity and sexual orientation as a teenager, and it grew as a hobby from there. A. spends most of their time writing and reading stories about men falling in love with other men, but they also have ADHD and are easily distracted by social media and various topics of research that often have little relevance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 15, 2024
4.5 rounded to 5
Another great addition to the fighting for love series! Cypress and Theo are step siblings who never had a chance to get to know each other cause of Theos family views make him not want to even try to know Cypress. When he gets back from college, it's his time to get real and actually see the person and not just their look.
The two take their time to actually see the others' true selves, and when they do, it just clicks. My only real complaint is that the ending feels a bit rushed where you don't get real closure with Theos parents and just see these two find a way to make it work. Overall, it is worth a read and another great addition to this universe.
Another great addition to the fighting for love series! Cypress and Theo are step siblings who never had a chance to get to know each other cause of Theos family views make him not want to even try to know Cypress. When he gets back from college, it's his time to get real and actually see the person and not just their look.
The two take their time to actually see the others' true selves, and when they do, it just clicks. My only real complaint is that the ending feels a bit rushed where you don't get real closure with Theos parents and just see these two find a way to make it work. Overall, it is worth a read and another great addition to this universe.
January 22, 2024
*Edited after spending some more time thinking about it*
I had to sit with this one for a bit before I could write my review. I really wanted to love this book, but it fell short for me in a couple of ways. Overall, it was a good, quick read, so I am giving it a high 3, almost 4 stars and rounding up.
The writing was good and easy to follow, though the story moved very fast. While it is a novella and the author had to deal with wordcount restraints, I think this story would have worked better as a full-length novel so the author had more time to develop their characters and story arc.
I do want to applaud the author for the non-binary representation in the book. Cy lived their life with support from family and friends, as well as the gym we have all come to love in this series. They faced bullying throughout their life and still had the courage to be true to themself. I think that aspect of Cy's character was phenomenal. Theo also learning to break away from the bigotry he was raised with and learning to be true to himself was a big part of the story arc and also so important.
The biggest thing that kept me from rating this book higher was Cy. They seemed pretty positive and understanding in the prologue, but their character changed for the worse, in my opinion. They behaved callously and sometimes cruelly toward Theo. After thinking about it more, I suppose that makes sense in some ways because of Theo's past behavior and the bullying Cy endured. However, some things they did (especially the instances of mocking and laughing at Theo) didn't sit well with me. Cy seemed to be more of a bully than Theo was.
Theo was clearly attracted to Cy, but it didn't seem mutual. Cy's interest seemed to be based on Theo's interest in them and their desire to toy with Theo. By the end of the book, despite the epilogue, I didn't seem them lasting as a couple. I thought Cy would lose interest in Theo pretty quickly.
While Theo could say some stupid, ignorant things at times, I did feel a bit bad for him. He didn't seem to have anyone in his corner. Even his supposed best friend served more as a support for Cy than him. Theo showed the most growth in the story and I felt like we got to know him much more than Cy, who remained pretty stagnant throughout.
Knockout Gym didn't feature so prominently in this book as it did in others of the series. We only saw it a couple of times and in scenes that weren't important to the plot. Most of the story took place at Theo and Cy's home.
While overall an enjoyable, quick read, I felt like I would have liked it more had less time been spent building up to Theo and Cy getting together and more time spent with them in a relationship. The story seemed to race to the finish line and left some things unresolved. If A.E. Madsen chose to expand this into a full-length novel, I would be excited to give these characters another chance and read that. I do think the representation in this story was superb and for that alone, it is well worth a read.
I had to sit with this one for a bit before I could write my review. I really wanted to love this book, but it fell short for me in a couple of ways. Overall, it was a good, quick read, so I am giving it a high 3, almost 4 stars and rounding up.
The writing was good and easy to follow, though the story moved very fast. While it is a novella and the author had to deal with wordcount restraints, I think this story would have worked better as a full-length novel so the author had more time to develop their characters and story arc.
I do want to applaud the author for the non-binary representation in the book. Cy lived their life with support from family and friends, as well as the gym we have all come to love in this series. They faced bullying throughout their life and still had the courage to be true to themself. I think that aspect of Cy's character was phenomenal. Theo also learning to break away from the bigotry he was raised with and learning to be true to himself was a big part of the story arc and also so important.
The biggest thing that kept me from rating this book higher was Cy. They seemed pretty positive and understanding in the prologue, but their character changed for the worse, in my opinion. They behaved callously and sometimes cruelly toward Theo. After thinking about it more, I suppose that makes sense in some ways because of Theo's past behavior and the bullying Cy endured. However, some things they did (especially the instances of mocking and laughing at Theo) didn't sit well with me. Cy seemed to be more of a bully than Theo was.
Theo was clearly attracted to Cy, but it didn't seem mutual. Cy's interest seemed to be based on Theo's interest in them and their desire to toy with Theo. By the end of the book, despite the epilogue, I didn't seem them lasting as a couple. I thought Cy would lose interest in Theo pretty quickly.
While Theo could say some stupid, ignorant things at times, I did feel a bit bad for him. He didn't seem to have anyone in his corner. Even his supposed best friend served more as a support for Cy than him. Theo showed the most growth in the story and I felt like we got to know him much more than Cy, who remained pretty stagnant throughout.
Knockout Gym didn't feature so prominently in this book as it did in others of the series. We only saw it a couple of times and in scenes that weren't important to the plot. Most of the story took place at Theo and Cy's home.
While overall an enjoyable, quick read, I felt like I would have liked it more had less time been spent building up to Theo and Cy getting together and more time spent with them in a relationship. The story seemed to race to the finish line and left some things unresolved. If A.E. Madsen chose to expand this into a full-length novel, I would be excited to give these characters another chance and read that. I do think the representation in this story was superb and for that alone, it is well worth a read.
January 14, 2024
"I don’t know what we’re doing, but I don’t want it to stop..."
I had so much fun reading Fighting Temptation by A.E. Madsen, a standalone MX romance novella, which is part of the multi-author collaboration series, Fighting for Love.
Fighting Temptation is a step-sibling, enemies to lovers romance, with a little bit of forced proximity as the cherry on top!
When Cypress is preparing to meet their mom's new boyfriend's son, Theo, they are excited. However, they quickly get off on the wrong foot because of Theo's attitude.
Five years later, Theo has moved home from college to begin his job search and isn't impressed to be living with Cypress the 'golden child' again.
Likewise, Cypress isn't particularly keen to have their step-sibling in the room next door. They have college work to focus on and their MMA training at the Knockout Gym.
But when Theo walks in on Cypress in a compromising position with Theo's best friend, he begins to think of Cypress in a different light...
'Cy glances over their shoulder and our eyes meet. Right before they come... My d*ck twitches in my pants, pressing hard against my hand that is still on my bulge.'
And, tensions rise further when a leak in the roof leads to Cy and Theo having to share a room.
I loved the banter between them, the push and pull, and then when they gave into the attraction and chemistry between them, they were so hot together.
'Then Cy pulls off. Their mouth leaving my d*ck with a pop. “You’re not what?” they ask. “You want me to stop, Teddy? If this is too gay for you …” they trail off, giving my d*ck another teasing lick...
My d*ck aches, missing the touch of their mouth. “No.”
“What was that?” Cy moves their hand, no longer touching me.
“I … I want it. Just don’t stop. Please.”'
The humour in Fighting Temptation was good fun:
“Bigoted? Theo’s so far in the closet, he’s consorting with the White Witch.”
I also really liked Eric, and I hope we'll see him somewhere in the future with his own book.
Fighting Temptation did move very quickly, however, and I'd have really loved to see Cy and Theo's relationship take a little more time to develop and see those feelings grow, but as this is a novella, there wasn't that chance.
However, I really enjoyed this story. It's sexy, fun, with good characters. If you're looking for a quick, easy read, Fighting Temptation is the book for you.
I had so much fun reading Fighting Temptation by A.E. Madsen, a standalone MX romance novella, which is part of the multi-author collaboration series, Fighting for Love.
Fighting Temptation is a step-sibling, enemies to lovers romance, with a little bit of forced proximity as the cherry on top!
When Cypress is preparing to meet their mom's new boyfriend's son, Theo, they are excited. However, they quickly get off on the wrong foot because of Theo's attitude.
Five years later, Theo has moved home from college to begin his job search and isn't impressed to be living with Cypress the 'golden child' again.
Likewise, Cypress isn't particularly keen to have their step-sibling in the room next door. They have college work to focus on and their MMA training at the Knockout Gym.
But when Theo walks in on Cypress in a compromising position with Theo's best friend, he begins to think of Cypress in a different light...
'Cy glances over their shoulder and our eyes meet. Right before they come... My d*ck twitches in my pants, pressing hard against my hand that is still on my bulge.'
And, tensions rise further when a leak in the roof leads to Cy and Theo having to share a room.
I loved the banter between them, the push and pull, and then when they gave into the attraction and chemistry between them, they were so hot together.
'Then Cy pulls off. Their mouth leaving my d*ck with a pop. “You’re not what?” they ask. “You want me to stop, Teddy? If this is too gay for you …” they trail off, giving my d*ck another teasing lick...
My d*ck aches, missing the touch of their mouth. “No.”
“What was that?” Cy moves their hand, no longer touching me.
“I … I want it. Just don’t stop. Please.”'
The humour in Fighting Temptation was good fun:
“Bigoted? Theo’s so far in the closet, he’s consorting with the White Witch.”
I also really liked Eric, and I hope we'll see him somewhere in the future with his own book.
Fighting Temptation did move very quickly, however, and I'd have really loved to see Cy and Theo's relationship take a little more time to develop and see those feelings grow, but as this is a novella, there wasn't that chance.
However, I really enjoyed this story. It's sexy, fun, with good characters. If you're looking for a quick, easy read, Fighting Temptation is the book for you.
January 18, 2024
Theo and Cy are stepbrothers. Well, kinda. They met shortly before Theo left for college, but it was enough for them to not like each other. And as the years passed and the few times they saw each other during that time, that didn't change. Now Theo is back, having finished college, and the situation is even more tense between them. Cypress are a very interesting character, one moment they are in a ring fighting, and the next they are dressed ready to flirt and seduce. They are, I would almost say, a free and provocative spirit, who know exactly how to push the right buttons so that Theo ends up even more frustrated and moody.
But underneath that antagonism flows a hidden attraction, which ends up exploding when he finds Cy in a certain situation with Theo's best friend and once those gates are open, it seems like nothing can stop them, not even some internalized homophobia that Theo feels, and that little by little he realizes that it is not really him who thinks or feels that way, but his own mother who speaks through him after having influenced him for years. However, despite this, he does not hesitate to defend Cy when necessary, and even stands up to his own mother in order to do so.
I haven't read a lot of stories about non-binary people and I must say, it's something I would like to read and learn more about. What differentiates this story from the other few I've read with enby characters is that Cypress doesn't fight against themselves, they don't feel confused. They know themselves, accept themselves and proudly live their identity since they were very young. It's something that's really refreshing, and what you wish every person trying to discover their true identity would feel.
The story was quite entertaining, and as I said before, a bit refreshing in some aspects, with several steamy and hot moments. I really like it. And especially, I loved the dynamic between the MCs.
I was given an advance copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
But underneath that antagonism flows a hidden attraction, which ends up exploding when he finds Cy in a certain situation with Theo's best friend and once those gates are open, it seems like nothing can stop them, not even some internalized homophobia that Theo feels, and that little by little he realizes that it is not really him who thinks or feels that way, but his own mother who speaks through him after having influenced him for years. However, despite this, he does not hesitate to defend Cy when necessary, and even stands up to his own mother in order to do so.
I haven't read a lot of stories about non-binary people and I must say, it's something I would like to read and learn more about. What differentiates this story from the other few I've read with enby characters is that Cypress doesn't fight against themselves, they don't feel confused. They know themselves, accept themselves and proudly live their identity since they were very young. It's something that's really refreshing, and what you wish every person trying to discover their true identity would feel.
The story was quite entertaining, and as I said before, a bit refreshing in some aspects, with several steamy and hot moments. I really like it. And especially, I loved the dynamic between the MCs.
I was given an advance copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
January 4, 2024
I received this book as an ARc in return for an honest review and I absolutely ADORED it.
Theodore seemed like someone I would hate, I was so sure he was gonna be that a-hole we all hate but slowly grow to love and he kinda was, but also he was so much better than that. As for Cypress, well could I love them more?! They were sassy, strong, a lot naughty and a little bit sweet, a bit like Theo actually lol and I loved them completely.
The fact that Cy was nonbinary, flirty and fabulous but was also the one who was the fighter while Theo seemed like the typical jerk jock was really nice to read. I just really loved their dynamic and how strong and confident Cypress was even when faced with Theo's dislike.
One of my fav things about this book though, was that Theo didn't dislike Cy for being gay or nonbinary as such and though he didn't get it or appear to like it much, refused to allow even his own mum to misgender Cypress or push her bigoted hatred onto him or onto Cypress as well. He stood up for them and didn't back down and that endeared Theo to me even when he was kinda being a dick to Cy.
Their whole rivalry was unnecessary but of course neither of them knew that at the time so for them it was and it made it a really fun read because it wasn't quite the typical rivalry I normally see. Their relationship was awkward, filled with stress but oh so wonderful once it was all settled. These two haven't left my mind for long since I read it and I truly adored it so much. Would absolutely read again most happily. Well written, fun read with a nice dose of spice and people who seem like jerks but are actually a pretty damn good guy once given a chance.
Theodore seemed like someone I would hate, I was so sure he was gonna be that a-hole we all hate but slowly grow to love and he kinda was, but also he was so much better than that. As for Cypress, well could I love them more?! They were sassy, strong, a lot naughty and a little bit sweet, a bit like Theo actually lol and I loved them completely.
The fact that Cy was nonbinary, flirty and fabulous but was also the one who was the fighter while Theo seemed like the typical jerk jock was really nice to read. I just really loved their dynamic and how strong and confident Cypress was even when faced with Theo's dislike.
One of my fav things about this book though, was that Theo didn't dislike Cy for being gay or nonbinary as such and though he didn't get it or appear to like it much, refused to allow even his own mum to misgender Cypress or push her bigoted hatred onto him or onto Cypress as well. He stood up for them and didn't back down and that endeared Theo to me even when he was kinda being a dick to Cy.
Their whole rivalry was unnecessary but of course neither of them knew that at the time so for them it was and it made it a really fun read because it wasn't quite the typical rivalry I normally see. Their relationship was awkward, filled with stress but oh so wonderful once it was all settled. These two haven't left my mind for long since I read it and I truly adored it so much. Would absolutely read again most happily. Well written, fun read with a nice dose of spice and people who seem like jerks but are actually a pretty damn good guy once given a chance.
December 29, 2023
I haven't read too many MX romances, I think this is only my fourth or fifth overall. Somehow all the other enby characters have been really bubbly, absolute balls of sunshine, and I was delighted to realise that Cy is not that. They don't take any shit, and they're a brat and tease besides. They're really mean to Theo, not that he's any better, and I was left thinking that it's a good thing these characters are young, otherwise there'd be no excuse for acting so childishly. At one point I struggled to be sympathetic to either of them, which is odd- enemies to lovers is usually my thing, but I guess I was just all out of patience for the silly games.
By the time they had sorted themselves out and gone sweet it was a real rush to the finish line, and it felt like things were moving far too fast. There was no time to see the new shape of the relationship before it was over, and I found it a bit unconvincing. It had potential to be a really great book, but it felt like it needed to be a lot longer and more developed.
Although it was a bit of a miss for me, it's definitely worth reading if you're into this series and want to see an enby character with a bit of something else going on. There were some flashes of amazing chemistry between Cy and Theo. I'd say go for it if you like the tropes and you're in the market for a short read.
By the time they had sorted themselves out and gone sweet it was a real rush to the finish line, and it felt like things were moving far too fast. There was no time to see the new shape of the relationship before it was over, and I found it a bit unconvincing. It had potential to be a really great book, but it felt like it needed to be a lot longer and more developed.
Although it was a bit of a miss for me, it's definitely worth reading if you're into this series and want to see an enby character with a bit of something else going on. There were some flashes of amazing chemistry between Cy and Theo. I'd say go for it if you like the tropes and you're in the market for a short read.
January 4, 2024
Almost 4 stars because I wanted more of them.
𝔽𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕖𝕞𝕡𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟-𝔸.𝔼.𝕄𝕒𝕕𝕤𝕖𝕟
𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓹𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴, 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓲𝓼 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼
Fighting Temptation is one of 8 novellas in a 'Fighting for Love' collection with contributions from different authors.
Cy and Theo's parents married when they were teens, so while they are technically StepSiblings, they weren't raised as Siblings.
Cy is Non Binary. They don't really fit any particular labels and encourage Theo not to worry about those. Cy is a fighter one minute and dressed to impress the next. Crops and Skirts, Shorts and Tanks, no rules.
After something happens and they get forced into each other's space, they start to look at each other very differently. It certainly isn't sibling like.
I enjoyed this book but felt like I also would have enjoyed their story together in a full sized book as well.
I'm not new to MM or Non MF romance, which is probably more accurate, but I have never read anything with someone Non Binary. I liked how Cy was just unapologetically themselves, and Theo doesn't really understand the pronoun situation, yet he is still protective and respectful of what Cy's identity is.
There wasn't a whole lot of the MMA side in this Novella, but I think that's the point. It's in the background, but the story is about their love.
Thank you, Indieauthorcreative for introducing me to this author.
𝔽𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕖𝕞𝕡𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟-𝔸.𝔼.𝕄𝕒𝕕𝕤𝕖𝕟
𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓹𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴, 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓲𝓼 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼
Fighting Temptation is one of 8 novellas in a 'Fighting for Love' collection with contributions from different authors.
Cy and Theo's parents married when they were teens, so while they are technically StepSiblings, they weren't raised as Siblings.
Cy is Non Binary. They don't really fit any particular labels and encourage Theo not to worry about those. Cy is a fighter one minute and dressed to impress the next. Crops and Skirts, Shorts and Tanks, no rules.
After something happens and they get forced into each other's space, they start to look at each other very differently. It certainly isn't sibling like.
I enjoyed this book but felt like I also would have enjoyed their story together in a full sized book as well.
I'm not new to MM or Non MF romance, which is probably more accurate, but I have never read anything with someone Non Binary. I liked how Cy was just unapologetically themselves, and Theo doesn't really understand the pronoun situation, yet he is still protective and respectful of what Cy's identity is.
There wasn't a whole lot of the MMA side in this Novella, but I think that's the point. It's in the background, but the story is about their love.
Thank you, Indieauthorcreative for introducing me to this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2024
Ugh, I hate writing reviews on my phone but I have a cat on my lap so it is what it is, I'll be back later...
Alright, here it is...
Cypress (18-ish,x), MMA fighter, community college student studying ????, the golden child.
Theo (22-ish,m), recently returned to his father and step-mother's house after fours years away at college, having graduated with a degree in business with a minor in accounting, resentful of Cy.
I loved that this was more of a grumpy/grumpy pairing, I love sunshine too but sometimes I enjoy a little snark and matching energy for a change. I will say that I would have liked a little more from the parents to warrant Theo's attitude and the chip on his shoulder. A passing comment about Cy being the golden child wasn't enough to get me behind him, it would have been easily incorporated throughout the book to demonstrate that he really wasn't being treated fairly and to have the rift between them feel justified, but it wasn't. Instead he comes off like a toddler having a temper tantrum seemingly for no reason.
That said, I quite enjoyed the dynamic, the relationship development as Ty and Theo pick at each other was quite enjoyable. I loved Eric as a side character
This lost a star from me simply because the wrap-up felt so rushed, it felt like Cy and Teddy had barely acknowledged that they might be doing more than hate-banging when they are suddenly moving in together. I didn't feel the love, which is why I read romance. As it is, this didn't leave me feeling particularly optimistic about the longevity of the relationship, there wasn't a whole lot of communication all around and I needed a little more time with the characters to get behind them as a couple.
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
Book 5/8 (Amazon release order), read fifth.
Note: There is a bonus scene if you sign up for the author's newsletter; a short (8p on my Kindle) sexy time scene where Cy demonstrates how their license plate suits them. It's cute but I'm so over having to jump through so many hoops to get these little bonuses that are barely worth the hassle.
Alright, here it is...
Cypress (18-ish,x), MMA fighter, community college student studying ????, the golden child.
Theo (22-ish,m), recently returned to his father and step-mother's house after fours years away at college, having graduated with a degree in business with a minor in accounting, resentful of Cy.
I loved that this was more of a grumpy/grumpy pairing, I love sunshine too but sometimes I enjoy a little snark and matching energy for a change. I will say that I would have liked a little more from the parents to warrant Theo's attitude and the chip on his shoulder. A passing comment about Cy being the golden child wasn't enough to get me behind him, it would have been easily incorporated throughout the book to demonstrate that he really wasn't being treated fairly and to have the rift between them feel justified, but it wasn't. Instead he comes off like a toddler having a temper tantrum seemingly for no reason.
That said, I quite enjoyed the dynamic, the relationship development as Ty and Theo pick at each other was quite enjoyable. I loved Eric as a side character
This lost a star from me simply because the wrap-up felt so rushed, it felt like Cy and Teddy had barely acknowledged that they might be doing more than hate-banging when they are suddenly moving in together. I didn't feel the love, which is why I read romance. As it is, this didn't leave me feeling particularly optimistic about the longevity of the relationship, there wasn't a whole lot of communication all around and I needed a little more time with the characters to get behind them as a couple.
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
Book 5/8 (Amazon release order), read fifth.
Note: There is a bonus scene if you sign up for the author's newsletter; a short (8p on my Kindle) sexy time scene where Cy demonstrates how their license plate suits them. It's cute but I'm so over having to jump through so many hoops to get these little bonuses that are barely worth the hassle.
January 16, 2024
Fighting Temptation - Deserving Love
Fighting Temptation - Deserving Love
It started with Judo when I was little. My mom wanted me to have a way to defend myself after one too many bullies had a problem with the way I dressed. Elementary school kids aren’t the most open-minded about a little boy wearing bright colors and skirts. My mom never cared, though. She was always encouraging, letting me pick what I wanted to wear no matter what section of the store it came out of. I don’t think it surprised her at all when I came out as nonbinary. She might not have been familiar with the term, but nothing about me really changed. I grew out my hair, switched to they/them pronouns, and kept wearing whatever I wanted.’
Cypress and Theo are pushed into a brotherly relationship when their parents get together, yet there is contention at every turn. That is until Cy has a an intimate guest that throws Theo for a loop.
Fighting Temptation, by A.E. Madsen, is part of the Fighting for Love cooperative author series that is centered in the Knockout MMA gym in Philadelphia.
I found Madsen’s character development so very compelling, as relationships changed and formed. Cy’s nonbinary fighter was compassionately formed and helped create a story that was more than skin deep.
Fighting Temptation - Deserving Love
It started with Judo when I was little. My mom wanted me to have a way to defend myself after one too many bullies had a problem with the way I dressed. Elementary school kids aren’t the most open-minded about a little boy wearing bright colors and skirts. My mom never cared, though. She was always encouraging, letting me pick what I wanted to wear no matter what section of the store it came out of. I don’t think it surprised her at all when I came out as nonbinary. She might not have been familiar with the term, but nothing about me really changed. I grew out my hair, switched to they/them pronouns, and kept wearing whatever I wanted.’
Cypress and Theo are pushed into a brotherly relationship when their parents get together, yet there is contention at every turn. That is until Cy has a an intimate guest that throws Theo for a loop.
Fighting Temptation, by A.E. Madsen, is part of the Fighting for Love cooperative author series that is centered in the Knockout MMA gym in Philadelphia.
I found Madsen’s character development so very compelling, as relationships changed and formed. Cy’s nonbinary fighter was compassionately formed and helped create a story that was more than skin deep.
January 15, 2024
This book is about Cypress, “Cy”, and Theo, two step-brothers, who at first don’t like each other, but, in the end, fall in love.
They meet when they are teenagers, the day their parents announce they will move in together, and get married. Then Theo moves to another city to study, and when he comes back he has to live again in the same house as Cy.
This time, things change and the two step-brothers finally get to know each other, and fall in love.
I enjoyed the story, and the characters, especially Cy and their (pronouns are they/them in this case, since this character is non-binary) way to be, their determination, and strenght. I found Theo a little bit “impolite”, even though he changes at a certain point, thanks to Cy.
Eric, Theo’s friend (and Cy’s hookup at the beginning), is another one I really liked. He actually jumped straight to my top list of favourites, and I hope we can find him somewhere else someday.
I found Cy’s mother, as well as Theo’s father, very supportive, and there’s no doubt they belong to the people who stay on the “good side”.
In general, it was a really enjoyable reading!
They meet when they are teenagers, the day their parents announce they will move in together, and get married. Then Theo moves to another city to study, and when he comes back he has to live again in the same house as Cy.
This time, things change and the two step-brothers finally get to know each other, and fall in love.
I enjoyed the story, and the characters, especially Cy and their (pronouns are they/them in this case, since this character is non-binary) way to be, their determination, and strenght. I found Theo a little bit “impolite”, even though he changes at a certain point, thanks to Cy.
Eric, Theo’s friend (and Cy’s hookup at the beginning), is another one I really liked. He actually jumped straight to my top list of favourites, and I hope we can find him somewhere else someday.
I found Cy’s mother, as well as Theo’s father, very supportive, and there’s no doubt they belong to the people who stay on the “good side”.
In general, it was a really enjoyable reading!
January 10, 2024
(3.5)
When I first read the blurb for this book I was intrigued, it sounded really interesting to me, and I enjoy reading stepbrother romances so I was looking forward to reading it. While I did think the overall story was good, I found the way the story was written to be a bit disjointed at times. At some points it felt rushed, and it didn't flow from one moment to the next.
Both of these characters confused me a bit cause in the beginning of the story Cypress seemed like a happy go lucky, nice person, but then later on in the book he's much more brash and callous, which was confusing. With Theo's character I felt as though his character at least consistently stayed the same, his character showed a bit or growth when he stood up to his mom.
I had a difficult time with this book mainly because there wasn't a nice flow to the story, these two hated each other, they hook up, and boom! They want to be together... It just felt a bit disjointed to me. Other than that though, a decent story!
When I first read the blurb for this book I was intrigued, it sounded really interesting to me, and I enjoy reading stepbrother romances so I was looking forward to reading it. While I did think the overall story was good, I found the way the story was written to be a bit disjointed at times. At some points it felt rushed, and it didn't flow from one moment to the next.
Both of these characters confused me a bit cause in the beginning of the story Cypress seemed like a happy go lucky, nice person, but then later on in the book he's much more brash and callous, which was confusing. With Theo's character I felt as though his character at least consistently stayed the same, his character showed a bit or growth when he stood up to his mom.
I had a difficult time with this book mainly because there wasn't a nice flow to the story, these two hated each other, they hook up, and boom! They want to be together... It just felt a bit disjointed to me. Other than that though, a decent story!
January 15, 2024
Theodore had a respite during college until he graduated and had to move back home to live in his childhood home and put up with his step-brother Cypress who is the golden child. Then he walks in on them with his friend or after a disaster is forced to share a bedroom. It's confusing because Cypress is so pretty. Theo was a jerk toward Cypress from the moment they met and after a respite for four years while he was at college. Now he just wants Theo to move out and in the meantime, Cypress will continue with his MMM and online college.
This was a nice story of step-brothers who didn't get on until their attraction took over and they found real happiness in each other's arms. I loved the MMA element which gave Cypress a great body as well as an ability to take care of himself. I enjoyed the connection back to Theo's mother and how some of his attitudes and prejudices came from her (and that he then confronted them). Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MX story with mature content.
This was a nice story of step-brothers who didn't get on until their attraction took over and they found real happiness in each other's arms. I loved the MMA element which gave Cypress a great body as well as an ability to take care of himself. I enjoyed the connection back to Theo's mother and how some of his attitudes and prejudices came from her (and that he then confronted them). Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MX story with mature content.
January 5, 2024
✨ Book Review - ARC ✨
✨ "Fighting Temptation" by A. E. Madsen
✨ Series: Fighting For Love, multi author series
✨ Out Jan 15!
✨ Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
✨ "Fighting Temptation" is a M/Mx stepsiblings novella in the "Fighting for Love" series
✨ I really enjoyed reading Cy and Theo's story! They got off on a rocky start when they first met, but eventually figured out there was a fine line between love and hate. I also enjoyed that we got to see more fighting in this story than in "Fighting the Fear"!
✨ I understand it was probably because of the length of the story, but the pacing felt a little rushed and I would have enjoyed seeing more of their "getting to know each other" phase.
✨ Pick up if you love: shutting down homophobes, "wait, we actually like each other?", nonbinary rep, folks in skirts, and fighting for each other through all sorts of adversity
✨ "Fighting Temptation" by A. E. Madsen
✨ Series: Fighting For Love, multi author series
✨ Out Jan 15!
✨ Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
✨ "Fighting Temptation" is a M/Mx stepsiblings novella in the "Fighting for Love" series
✨ I really enjoyed reading Cy and Theo's story! They got off on a rocky start when they first met, but eventually figured out there was a fine line between love and hate. I also enjoyed that we got to see more fighting in this story than in "Fighting the Fear"!
✨ I understand it was probably because of the length of the story, but the pacing felt a little rushed and I would have enjoyed seeing more of their "getting to know each other" phase.
✨ Pick up if you love: shutting down homophobes, "wait, we actually like each other?", nonbinary rep, folks in skirts, and fighting for each other through all sorts of adversity
January 6, 2024
I loved the push/pull between Theo and Cypress. Cy is non-binary and isn't afraid to be themselves no matter who is around and especially if they're a homophobe. Theo has been battling his sexuality for years and never wanted to admit his true feelings that he was bisexual because of his severely homophobic mother. She was literally the worst with the way she constantly mis-gendered Cy just to be spiteful.
The one thing I didn't like about Theo was that he mentioned more than once that he didn't understand why Cy was NB, but never fully "asked" them to explain why they felt that way to identify themselves.
Once these two finally get it together, they go on a journey of exploration that leads to their HEA.
Plot: 4/5
Spice: 3.5/5.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The one thing I didn't like about Theo was that he mentioned more than once that he didn't understand why Cy was NB, but never fully "asked" them to explain why they felt that way to identify themselves.
Once these two finally get it together, they go on a journey of exploration that leads to their HEA.
Plot: 4/5
Spice: 3.5/5.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2024
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Step siblings can often be oil and water, and that’s the case for Cypress and Theo. It started out rocky and it never really got better.
Theo seems like a jerk but it’s clear he’s just keeping people at a distance. When he moves home after college, they are finally forced to really get to know one another. It means Theo has some things to work through and come to terms with.
I like the time they take to get together, and how protective Theo is of Cyrpess.
They work well as a couple and overall a great addition to the Fighting for Love universe.
Step siblings can often be oil and water, and that’s the case for Cypress and Theo. It started out rocky and it never really got better.
Theo seems like a jerk but it’s clear he’s just keeping people at a distance. When he moves home after college, they are finally forced to really get to know one another. It means Theo has some things to work through and come to terms with.
I like the time they take to get together, and how protective Theo is of Cyrpess.
They work well as a couple and overall a great addition to the Fighting for Love universe.
January 27, 2024
Story 4-stars/Cover 5-stars! What can I say, we all have that ONE! You know? Every time you see them on a cover, you just have to read the story... and THIS is my ONE!!!
OK, on to the story...
Heads up, new author for me! I agree with another reviewer... I would have liked this one to be longer! You see, I NEED details! I need my stories to go A-B-C-D... you get the picture! Even though this story worked well for me, there were tons of things that had to be skimmed over or on occasion, not even explained. I know this is going to come back and bite me in the butt, but I wish the story had ended before the epilogue. I would have liked to have had a follow-up story instead. I think Theo and Cy deserved to be given a more complete on-page future, but such is life!
OK, on to the story...
Heads up, new author for me! I agree with another reviewer... I would have liked this one to be longer! You see, I NEED details! I need my stories to go A-B-C-D... you get the picture! Even though this story worked well for me, there were tons of things that had to be skimmed over or on occasion, not even explained. I know this is going to come back and bite me in the butt, but I wish the story had ended before the epilogue. I would have liked to have had a follow-up story instead. I think Theo and Cy deserved to be given a more complete on-page future, but such is life!
December 29, 2023
What a staggering addition to the Fighting for Love series! Cypress and Theo’s story is heartwarming and inspirational, very touching. Step siblings without a chance because of parental opinions, until Theo can no longer deny his attraction.
Their relationship was never meant to become romantic, but the tension between them was fierce and packed with radiant need. “𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚.” and an old saying has never been truer!
Cy’s provocative antics were humorous, and Theo’s reaction was worth the risk. Fun, quick steamy read that will leave you feeling satisfied with the outcome.
Their relationship was never meant to become romantic, but the tension between them was fierce and packed with radiant need. “𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚.” and an old saying has never been truer!
Cy’s provocative antics were humorous, and Theo’s reaction was worth the risk. Fun, quick steamy read that will leave you feeling satisfied with the outcome.
January 6, 2024
This is the 3rd book I’ve read from Fighting For Love series and the 2nd book with a non binary MC . I had a hard time with the first books reading their pronouns in the context of the story and it made me feel a little ignorant but this time I was happy I followed them perfectly . Cy and Theo are step brothers and they have a love hate relationship although Cy suspects Theo is internalising his preferences he has no idea why he’s doing it. I enjoyed the push and pull between Cy & Theo but at times I wanted to shout at Theo to stand up for himself against his homophobic mother she was so rude towards Cy.
January 10, 2024
Fighting Temptation is part of the multi author Fighting for Love series. Each book is a standalone story but why not enjoy the whole series. This story is about Theodore and his stepsibling Cypress. Theodore is home from college and has to share a room with Cypress who he thinks of as the favorite child. Cypress is a Nonbinary main character and Theodore is gay. I loved watching these two figure things out. I felt bad the guys having to deal with Theo's homophobic mother. I felt the last part of the book was a little rushed but it still was good. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
January 13, 2024
This is another great addition to this multi author series, this is Cy who is non binary and Theo’s story they are step siblings but have never really spent any time or effort getting to know each other that way and it’s only when Theo returns home from college that they start to get to know each other and the attraction starts, they go from enemies to lovers quickly and then they start to have serious feelings for each other, Theo finally stands up to his mother and then has an argument with his dad and leaves his stepmother Cy’s mum stands by them and they get an apartment together and their relationship grows stronger and they get their Hea. Well worth a read.
January 14, 2024
This is the novella between Theo and Cypress, step brothers who didn’t grow up together and also didn’t get along. Theos mom was a pretty big bigot and growing up with that made Theo not the most open minded. The story takes place after Theo returns home from college and one day walks in on Cypress hooking up with his friend. From there the story progresses pretty fast into their relationship. The second half of the story flew by and in the case of this novella, there was some information that I wish I could’ve had by the end of it. Mainly if there was a resolution with Theos parents. All in all, the story entertained me and I finished it, so I call that a win.
January 15, 2024
Lots of tropes, skillfully woven together in this story: step siblings Theo and Cypress who have a rivals-to-lovers chemistry, some forced proximity, bi awakening, etc. Cy was hands down my favorite part of the story— I love strong, dynamic characters with the confidence to be themselves, and Cy does all that and more. Theo took me a bit longer to like, but once you get a glimpse behind the prickly walls, and the reasons for them, he’s deeply easy to care about too. A compelling story that ended just a touch too quickly for me, but overall: an enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 16, 2024
Fighting Temptation!
Theo’s Dad gets remarried when he is a senior in high school. But in his mind he doesn’t need a new family. He deals until he graduates and goes off to college. And now that he’s done with college he heads back home until he gets back on his feet.
Cypress lives at home with their mother and step dad for years while they was in high school and college. But when their big step brother comes home they have to learn how to get along with him even if he is mean!
These make a great pair. I don’t know how they work but they just do! I love it! This whole book was a great read!
Theo’s Dad gets remarried when he is a senior in high school. But in his mind he doesn’t need a new family. He deals until he graduates and goes off to college. And now that he’s done with college he heads back home until he gets back on his feet.
Cypress lives at home with their mother and step dad for years while they was in high school and college. But when their big step brother comes home they have to learn how to get along with him even if he is mean!
These make a great pair. I don’t know how they work but they just do! I love it! This whole book was a great read!
January 18, 2024
I found Cypress and Theo’s story to be compelling! The introduction of a non binary character to this series was very welcome. These two became step siblings as teenagers and so had little time to develop anything other than resentment. Once Theo returned after graduating college, he found himself gradually more and more attracted to the fascinating Cypress. Novellas give very little time for character development but I thought this author did an excellent job. Both Cypress and Theo were well fleshed out and believable as well as interesting to know. I would love to see more of them in a full length book!
February 6, 2024
4.5 rounded up. There were a lot of things about this book I liked. The number one part was Cy. I found them to be really likable and relatable, especially since the majority of trans/nb characters I read are pretty one-dimensional and not particularly interesting(saying this as a trans nb person). I didn't particularly love Theo, especially at the beginning. His inner monologues complaining about his stepmom and having to stay at home came off immature and spoiled, but he is redeemed toward the end. Overall, it's an easy read with an interesting and fun dynamic between the MCs. You'll like it, especially if you like stepbro or enemies to lovers!
January 12, 2024
When Cy and Theo met five years ago, their parents were dating and Theo made fun of Cy being non-binary. Now when Theo is back from college, they realize they are attracted. I really liked this couple and how it changed from hatred to crossing that thin line between hatred and love. Theo getting over the outward hate as he defends Cy is a thing of beauty. Another one of the really good books in this series, I enjoyed this one especially. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
January 14, 2024
This was such a fun read from A.E. Madsen.
I'm really digging these non-binary characters from this author and Cypress is such a badass!
I loved that Cy's gender identity didn't seem to be an issue for Theo outside of some initial confusion.
I loved the forced proximity and only one bed scenario with these two. The fact that this was "enemies to lovers" without bullying and the immediate switch to schmoopy once they got intimate was an added bonus.
Absolutely loved this story and highly recommend it.
I'm really digging these non-binary characters from this author and Cypress is such a badass!
I loved that Cy's gender identity didn't seem to be an issue for Theo outside of some initial confusion.
I loved the forced proximity and only one bed scenario with these two. The fact that this was "enemies to lovers" without bullying and the immediate switch to schmoopy once they got intimate was an added bonus.
Absolutely loved this story and highly recommend it.
January 14, 2024
4.5 stars. I loved reading about an enby character that was comfortable and confident in their own skin. A good story of stepsiblings who really disliked each other. I particularly liked the phrases where Theo realised that it was his mother coming out of his mouth when his own mind was pushing him into internal homophobia.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
January 16, 2024
This is book #5 in the multi-author series, Fighting For Love. Theo and Cypress became stepsiblings in their teens but never got to know each other before he went away to college. Four years later, he returns home. This is a very entertaining enemies to lovers story. It’s a short story filled with emotion and steam. I enjoyed this series addition. *this was a complimentary copy and this is my honest review*
January 17, 2024
Enemies to lovers
3.5 stars. I really liked the premise of this, but it also felt kind of rushed? And like maybe it could have been longer? They go from hating each other to kissing each other pretty fast so I wouldn’t have minded a little slower, extended pace to their relationship building. And UST is always a favorite of mine to read. But otherwise I did genuinely enjoy the characters and story, I just wanted a little more… something.
3.5 stars. I really liked the premise of this, but it also felt kind of rushed? And like maybe it could have been longer? They go from hating each other to kissing each other pretty fast so I wouldn’t have minded a little slower, extended pace to their relationship building. And UST is always a favorite of mine to read. But otherwise I did genuinely enjoy the characters and story, I just wanted a little more… something.
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