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Crown MMA Romance #3
Fighter's Secret
How can I trust an MMA fighting playboy when another fighter has already broken my heart?
Thanks to my cheating ex, I’m jobless, homeless, and heartbroken. My older brother, the owner of Crown MMA Gym, offers me a fresh start on the condition that I don’t sleep with any of his fighters.
Keeping my distance doesn’t seem like a big deal until I meet Devon Green. Gorgeous, fun-loving, and charismatic, he makes it clear he wants me, but I can’t afford to alienate my brother—or jeopardize my battered heart.
The trouble is, the more I get to know Devon, the more I think he might be worth the risk.
Thanks to my cheating ex, I’m jobless, homeless, and heartbroken. My older brother, the owner of Crown MMA Gym, offers me a fresh start on the condition that I don’t sleep with any of his fighters.
Keeping my distance doesn’t seem like a big deal until I meet Devon Green. Gorgeous, fun-loving, and charismatic, he makes it clear he wants me, but I can’t afford to alienate my brother—or jeopardize my battered heart.
The trouble is, the more I get to know Devon, the more I think he might be worth the risk.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 24, 2021
About the author
A. Rivers
20 books350 followersA. Rivers writes steamy romance books with take-charge heroes and strong heroines who aren't afraid to fight the odds for love. On the rare occasions when she ventures out of the writing cave, you can probably find her face down in a book, cuddling her pets, or planning her next overseas adventure with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 30, 2021
Everyone loves a reformed playboy right? All it takes in Fighter's Secret is for Devon to find that perfect someone for him and he is all in to get the girl. Harley, a woman fighter, making her way up in the sport, doesn't trust many and Devon has his work cut out for him with her. These two have that instant chemistry that they try to fight and their relationship is not without its obstacles. Love these two together!
I've really enjoyed this series so far and the next book sounds like it is going to be so good! I want to know all about Seth!
I've really enjoyed this series so far and the next book sounds like it is going to be so good! I want to know all about Seth!
January 27, 2024
2.5
Marginally better than the previous ones, but the male narrator had a very flat, passionless cadence.
Marginally better than the previous ones, but the male narrator had a very flat, passionless cadence.
June 13, 2024
Idk... The fact that i had this in my "currently reading" for so long should say enough
June 8, 2021
Feels 0
Steam 2
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
This book was ok for me. It was a take on the forbidden older brother's best friend genre. Harley is a muay thai fighter who has been living in Thailand for years. She's recently returned home to stay with her UFC champion brother Seth after a devastating end to her relationship. Her brother owns a gym and she starts to train their with him. Naturally, all the guys in the gym have the bro-code that no one is to hit on or go near Seth's little sister.
But hot, up and coming start Devon must not get the memo and doesn't care. He and Harley are attracted to each other immediately and are constantly being thrown together. Once they start having feelings for each other it's the "I want you but we really shouldn't" type scenario. There is the usual sneaking around so Seth won't find out.
This wasn't super exciting to me for some reason. I didn't feel the connection between Devon and Harley which kept me from fully engaging. You might find this story completely different and really enjoy it. In fact, I hope you do.
Steam 2
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
This book was ok for me. It was a take on the forbidden older brother's best friend genre. Harley is a muay thai fighter who has been living in Thailand for years. She's recently returned home to stay with her UFC champion brother Seth after a devastating end to her relationship. Her brother owns a gym and she starts to train their with him. Naturally, all the guys in the gym have the bro-code that no one is to hit on or go near Seth's little sister.
But hot, up and coming start Devon must not get the memo and doesn't care. He and Harley are attracted to each other immediately and are constantly being thrown together. Once they start having feelings for each other it's the "I want you but we really shouldn't" type scenario. There is the usual sneaking around so Seth won't find out.
This wasn't super exciting to me for some reason. I didn't feel the connection between Devon and Harley which kept me from fully engaging. You might find this story completely different and really enjoy it. In fact, I hope you do.
July 23, 2021
A great addition to the Crown MMA Series.
I had the privilege of BETA-reading this novel earlier in the year, and the final version (mainly the second half) is vastly different... and better for the changes. 😀
I've liked Devon since his introduction to the series in Jase's book. He's fun, crazy. A passionate character. This book showed why he's the way he is and he's just... *kisses fingers like an old-school European chef* perfect in his imperfect package. His history, and the depth often hidden to outsiders shone brightly in this story.
Harley was a tough nut to crack, with her fair share of emotional hang ups and drive to prove her worth to the world, yet still fragile when it came to her big brother Seth. I'm so glad she was the one to "out herself", and held a united front with Devon. 😍
Really enjoyed the "final edit" of this book. Well done, Ms Rivers, on making this story shine.
NB I received an ARC of this novel.
I had the privilege of BETA-reading this novel earlier in the year, and the final version (mainly the second half) is vastly different... and better for the changes. 😀
I've liked Devon since his introduction to the series in Jase's book. He's fun, crazy. A passionate character. This book showed why he's the way he is and he's just... *kisses fingers like an old-school European chef* perfect in his imperfect package. His history, and the depth often hidden to outsiders shone brightly in this story.
Harley was a tough nut to crack, with her fair share of emotional hang ups and drive to prove her worth to the world, yet still fragile when it came to her big brother Seth. I'm so glad she was the one to "out herself", and held a united front with Devon. 😍
Really enjoyed the "final edit" of this book. Well done, Ms Rivers, on making this story shine.
NB I received an ARC of this novel.
July 25, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book! Devon and Harley were the perfect match for each other, both dedicated and passionate to their fighting careers. Harley is such a badass female lead, she knows what she wants and will work hard to get it. Devon is similar in his work ethic but has a fun and playful side to him as well. I liked seeing Devon break Harley out of her shell to show her softer side. Th chemistry between them was fantastic and their bond felt so strong. I liked that Devon wasn’t afraid of his feelings for a Harley despite having a playboy past. The ending was great, felt like I was watching a movie play out. I loved how they both supported each other no matter what. Fantastic read from A. Rivers!
July 26, 2021
The story is well written and the characters will make you fall in love with their story. The story is an exciting mix of forbidden love and sports romance. Harley is Seth’s little sister and she has the hots for Devon, the man training under Seth. At first you are led to believe Devon is a playboy but that couldn’t be further from the truth. He has a heart of gold and he’s an all-around good guy. Harley is hesitant at first because of her past and she wants Seth’s approval. Will Devon be able to break through to the heart of a Harley?
July 21, 2021
Can I get an amen for Devon and his swoony ways?!
As a former pro athlete I had so much in common with Harley. Everything from the way she carried herself to the way she let's herself be vulnerable, she was one hell of a role model.
Now let's talk about Devon: that man take take me and whatever he wants any day of the week. He was a bit crazy but when things got real he was all in from the get go. He understood her and was willing to do just about anything for her.
Together they made a great power couple and I was thoroughly entertained while reading this.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog * * *
As a former pro athlete I had so much in common with Harley. Everything from the way she carried herself to the way she let's herself be vulnerable, she was one hell of a role model.
Now let's talk about Devon: that man take take me and whatever he wants any day of the week. He was a bit crazy but when things got real he was all in from the get go. He understood her and was willing to do just about anything for her.
Together they made a great power couple and I was thoroughly entertained while reading this.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog * * *
July 26, 2021
4 Stars!
A. Rivers is a new author for me and she definitely gave me a journey that captivated me fairly early on. The Fighter's Secret is a brand new release by Rivers and a standalone (newbie to this series and no issues at all...) with the Crowne MMA Romance series. Harley and Devon were quite the pair, definitely intriguing from that blurb. They packed a serious punch during their journey at times and had me all in my feels in a couple moments.
This was a good one and I'll definitely be checking out the others already available in this series.
I can recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
A. Rivers is a new author for me and she definitely gave me a journey that captivated me fairly early on. The Fighter's Secret is a brand new release by Rivers and a standalone (newbie to this series and no issues at all...) with the Crowne MMA Romance series. Harley and Devon were quite the pair, definitely intriguing from that blurb. They packed a serious punch during their journey at times and had me all in my feels in a couple moments.
This was a good one and I'll definitely be checking out the others already available in this series.
I can recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
July 21, 2021
I absolutely loved the first person point of view of the story. This is a huge deal breaker for me. I really liked this one, I couldn't put this book down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2022
3.5 stars
The Crown MMA romance series grabbed my attention from the very first book, when I took a chance on A Rivers as a new to me author, and the third book, Fighter’s Secret was a great read too.
Harley returns from Thailand to live with her brother Seth after living in Thailand. She’s a Muay Thai master and is nothing like any of the boys at the gym have ever seen, she’s feisty, fierce and can fight back. Devon, Seth’s best friend and fighter is the biggest flirt and playboy at the gym, but he is instantly drawn to Harley, and knows that this is the woman he could see a future with. But Harley is reluctant, and sees right through his charm, wanting to focus on fighting and not upsetting her brother. But Devon is persistent, and decides he’ll do whatever it takes to have Harley in his life, even if that means sacrificing his own dreams.
I did enjoy this book, the will they won’t they aspect is one I love to read, however I do wish that A Rivers hadn’t made Harley so outwardly not interested in Devon, because it made his pursuit of her even after she rejected him seem annoying and like he wasn’t taking no for an answer. I think if she had flirted back or been the one to go to him after saying no, I would’ve loved their story a lot more, but unfortunately it felt like Devon just didn’t take no for an answer.
However, I did really like how once they were together, Devon did everything he could to break down Harley’s walls and prove that he was nothing like her old boyfriend. Everything he did, he did for her, and that was incredibly sweet, risking it all for a chance of a future with her in it. Harley had all the reasons to focus solely on her career, and not have time for any distractions, but she realised that having Devon in her life would only make it better, and she took that leap. I loved how all the previous couples were included, but I will be reading Seth and Ashlin’s story soon, because there is too much left unsaid about this couple!
The Crown MMA romance series grabbed my attention from the very first book, when I took a chance on A Rivers as a new to me author, and the third book, Fighter’s Secret was a great read too.
Harley returns from Thailand to live with her brother Seth after living in Thailand. She’s a Muay Thai master and is nothing like any of the boys at the gym have ever seen, she’s feisty, fierce and can fight back. Devon, Seth’s best friend and fighter is the biggest flirt and playboy at the gym, but he is instantly drawn to Harley, and knows that this is the woman he could see a future with. But Harley is reluctant, and sees right through his charm, wanting to focus on fighting and not upsetting her brother. But Devon is persistent, and decides he’ll do whatever it takes to have Harley in his life, even if that means sacrificing his own dreams.
I did enjoy this book, the will they won’t they aspect is one I love to read, however I do wish that A Rivers hadn’t made Harley so outwardly not interested in Devon, because it made his pursuit of her even after she rejected him seem annoying and like he wasn’t taking no for an answer. I think if she had flirted back or been the one to go to him after saying no, I would’ve loved their story a lot more, but unfortunately it felt like Devon just didn’t take no for an answer.
However, I did really like how once they were together, Devon did everything he could to break down Harley’s walls and prove that he was nothing like her old boyfriend. Everything he did, he did for her, and that was incredibly sweet, risking it all for a chance of a future with her in it. Harley had all the reasons to focus solely on her career, and not have time for any distractions, but she realised that having Devon in her life would only make it better, and she took that leap. I loved how all the previous couples were included, but I will be reading Seth and Ashlin’s story soon, because there is too much left unsaid about this couple!
May 5, 2022
Jase and Gabe who?
I'm only joking!
Maybe. Gabe has been my favorite but I think Devon just lapped him. He's funny, thoughtful, and determined in the best ways. 🖤
Coming off of Fighter's Best Friend I was ready for that same level of conflict and battle, and there was some, but not to the same extent. This book progressed beautifully and kept me up well into the night dying to read it to the end. With this one I think Devon's humor really did it for me, he's just such a light character. He makes you want to be a better person with how positive he stays under pressure.
Harley is intense, she's equally soft and brutal and honestly is probably my favorite out of the ladies so far. She really brought in a new perspective and it was refreshing. I loved her.
I think Devon and Harley have been the best so far, I really think their book is going to be my favorite. The whole series has been great but these two are just...them. I'm stoked for Seth's book now!
I'm only joking!
Maybe. Gabe has been my favorite but I think Devon just lapped him. He's funny, thoughtful, and determined in the best ways. 🖤
Coming off of Fighter's Best Friend I was ready for that same level of conflict and battle, and there was some, but not to the same extent. This book progressed beautifully and kept me up well into the night dying to read it to the end. With this one I think Devon's humor really did it for me, he's just such a light character. He makes you want to be a better person with how positive he stays under pressure.
Harley is intense, she's equally soft and brutal and honestly is probably my favorite out of the ladies so far. She really brought in a new perspective and it was refreshing. I loved her.
I think Devon and Harley have been the best so far, I really think their book is going to be my favorite. The whole series has been great but these two are just...them. I'm stoked for Seth's book now!
July 26, 2021
Je remercie Give me books event bloggers et A. Rivers pour ce service presse en anglais.
Déjà le 3ème tome de la série Crown MMA et c'est toujours aussi addictif.
Ici nous faisons la connaissance de la petite soeur de Seth, l'entraîneur, Harley et de Devon, combattant en MMA.
Harley a quitté la Thaïlande pour revenir habiter à Las Vegas. Elle a plus de 60 combats à son actif avec la boxe thaïlandaise (Muay thai) et après des désillusions en amour, elle espère reprendre pied auprès du centre d'entrainement de son frère. Seul les combats comptent désormais pour elle, les combats et sa famille. Elle ne veut pas décevoir son frère et elle se doit de rester éloigner du tombeur de ses dames, Devon.
Mais plus facile à dire qu'à faire.
On n'aurait jamais cru que Devon puisse tomber amoureux en voyant Harley. Il y a un code d'honneur: ne pas toucher à la petite soeur d'un ami ou d'un entraineur. Et malheureusement il ne peut pas rester loin d'elle. Il veut tout avec elle et il va devoir se plier à ses souhaits: une relation secrète, sans engagement, vivre au jour le jour, voir où ça les mène. Après tout, tous les deux ont des combats importants à venir et ils ne peuvent pas mettre en péril leur carrière. Et puis elle ne veut pas décevoir son frère.
On a l'impression qu'Harley s'empêche d'être heureuse. Bien sur sa dernière relation fut un échec total, elle est tombée sur le mauvais garçon, il l'a critiquée à la fin. Voyons une femme sur un ring n'est pas assez féminine. C'est fou ce cliché. Alors elle ne veut pas trop se brûler les ailes avec Devon, surtout qu'il a une réputation de tombeur et elle ne veut pas être une énième conquête à son tableau. Comme je l'ai dit, elle ne veut pas décevoir son frère Seth. Il la prend sous son aile, elle habite avec lui, elle lui doit tout. Mais elle, que veut-elle? A part essayer une nouvelle discipline, montrer qu'elle peut combattre dans une cage. Elle peut être heureuse. Elle marche sur des oeufs avec lui, depuis qu'il a divorcé. Or elle a droit au bonheur et avec Devon elle va le trouver.
Il va voir qui elle est vraiment, ils vont se découvrir, se raconter leur passé respectif. Devon arrivera-t-il à percer cette carapace? Comment Seth va-t-il réagir lorsqu'il découvrira le pot aux roses? Tous les deux sont ils prêts �� sacrifier leur carrière par amour?
Et bien pour le savoir, il faut lire cette romance, où les combats sont toujours très bien décrits.
Déjà le 3ème tome de la série Crown MMA et c'est toujours aussi addictif.
Ici nous faisons la connaissance de la petite soeur de Seth, l'entraîneur, Harley et de Devon, combattant en MMA.
Harley a quitté la Thaïlande pour revenir habiter à Las Vegas. Elle a plus de 60 combats à son actif avec la boxe thaïlandaise (Muay thai) et après des désillusions en amour, elle espère reprendre pied auprès du centre d'entrainement de son frère. Seul les combats comptent désormais pour elle, les combats et sa famille. Elle ne veut pas décevoir son frère et elle se doit de rester éloigner du tombeur de ses dames, Devon.
Mais plus facile à dire qu'à faire.
On n'aurait jamais cru que Devon puisse tomber amoureux en voyant Harley. Il y a un code d'honneur: ne pas toucher à la petite soeur d'un ami ou d'un entraineur. Et malheureusement il ne peut pas rester loin d'elle. Il veut tout avec elle et il va devoir se plier à ses souhaits: une relation secrète, sans engagement, vivre au jour le jour, voir où ça les mène. Après tout, tous les deux ont des combats importants à venir et ils ne peuvent pas mettre en péril leur carrière. Et puis elle ne veut pas décevoir son frère.
On a l'impression qu'Harley s'empêche d'être heureuse. Bien sur sa dernière relation fut un échec total, elle est tombée sur le mauvais garçon, il l'a critiquée à la fin. Voyons une femme sur un ring n'est pas assez féminine. C'est fou ce cliché. Alors elle ne veut pas trop se brûler les ailes avec Devon, surtout qu'il a une réputation de tombeur et elle ne veut pas être une énième conquête à son tableau. Comme je l'ai dit, elle ne veut pas décevoir son frère Seth. Il la prend sous son aile, elle habite avec lui, elle lui doit tout. Mais elle, que veut-elle? A part essayer une nouvelle discipline, montrer qu'elle peut combattre dans une cage. Elle peut être heureuse. Elle marche sur des oeufs avec lui, depuis qu'il a divorcé. Or elle a droit au bonheur et avec Devon elle va le trouver.
Il va voir qui elle est vraiment, ils vont se découvrir, se raconter leur passé respectif. Devon arrivera-t-il à percer cette carapace? Comment Seth va-t-il réagir lorsqu'il découvrira le pot aux roses? Tous les deux sont ils prêts �� sacrifier leur carrière par amour?
Et bien pour le savoir, il faut lire cette romance, où les combats sont toujours très bien décrits.
July 22, 2021
I'm torn as to my rating it 3.5 to a 4 star
Yet again another great fighter book by A. Rivers and to make it that much better was the sassy, badass fighter that is Seth's younger sister Harley. She has an instant connection with Devon, the young playboy that is training under Seth. The push and pull of this relationship were great but I got very frustrated and felt so sorry for Devon as he was taking the brunt of past relationships that affected Harley.
A secret relationship ensues and you become engrossed in the aspect of the relationship but I wanted to grab both the characters and just make them be open and honest. This was a great addition to this series and I am looking forward to the series moving forward. All in all this book is recommended by me but I feel that you need to read the series in order to get the benefits of the story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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Yet again another great fighter book by A. Rivers and to make it that much better was the sassy, badass fighter that is Seth's younger sister Harley. She has an instant connection with Devon, the young playboy that is training under Seth. The push and pull of this relationship were great but I got very frustrated and felt so sorry for Devon as he was taking the brunt of past relationships that affected Harley.
A secret relationship ensues and you become engrossed in the aspect of the relationship but I wanted to grab both the characters and just make them be open and honest. This was a great addition to this series and I am looking forward to the series moving forward. All in all this book is recommended by me but I feel that you need to read the series in order to get the benefits of the story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
October 4, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 “Really, it boils down to one thing: do I trust myself to survive whatever comes my way?”
What You’ll Find:
✔️Sports Romance
✔️Secret Relationship
✔️MMA Fighters
✔️Instant Love
✔️Dual POV
Fighter’s Secret is a fun and steamy sports romance. It jumps in quickly with a pretty even mix of sports and romance in this story. You get a good feel for what it takes to be a fighter. And I like that both heroine and hero were fighters. They had their love of their chosen sport to bring them together, but sparks certainly flew quickly.
Their story felt more like instant love for me. For Devon especially. He was head over heels from the start. It took Harley more time, recovering from a troubled past relationship. But they had serious chemistry and their relationship grew quickly. They had a bit of a unique ’typical role’ reversal in many ways as well.
This is my first read by this author. I took a chance on it... sports romance and the tropes in this story are not always my jam and because of that I’m not sure this was the story for me. More a personal preference. So this rating is more a reflection of me, not the author. The writing flows well and smoothly. I do think it will be enjoyed by many sports romance fans, so check it out if that’s you!
*I received an eARC for my honest review. But review is from having time to read again post ARC revision.
What You’ll Find:
✔️Sports Romance
✔️Secret Relationship
✔️MMA Fighters
✔️Instant Love
✔️Dual POV
Fighter’s Secret is a fun and steamy sports romance. It jumps in quickly with a pretty even mix of sports and romance in this story. You get a good feel for what it takes to be a fighter. And I like that both heroine and hero were fighters. They had their love of their chosen sport to bring them together, but sparks certainly flew quickly.
Their story felt more like instant love for me. For Devon especially. He was head over heels from the start. It took Harley more time, recovering from a troubled past relationship. But they had serious chemistry and their relationship grew quickly. They had a bit of a unique ’typical role’ reversal in many ways as well.
This is my first read by this author. I took a chance on it... sports romance and the tropes in this story are not always my jam and because of that I’m not sure this was the story for me. More a personal preference. So this rating is more a reflection of me, not the author. The writing flows well and smoothly. I do think it will be enjoyed by many sports romance fans, so check it out if that’s you!
*I received an eARC for my honest review. But review is from having time to read again post ARC revision.
July 23, 2021
Harley is a muay thai fighter who just came back from Thailand after living there for years. She's returned to the U.S to stay and train with her brother Seth after complications with her former coach. At her brother's gym, Harley meets the hot Devon. They both are immediately attracted to each other, but Harley doesn't want to be with Dev in respect to her brother.
This is A. Rivers third book and this is my third Arc Review for her. I always find it funny how easy her books are to me when I'm not that fan of fighter heroes. But the thing is that since the first book in this series, I'm very intrigued by these characters and I always volunteer to review her books.
With this one, it was no different. I loved the hero. He was very sweet, he knew what he wanted and he didn't stop till he got it, and he was always a respectable gentleman. I had a little bit of a problem with the heroine and a lot of times, I was thinking that Devon deserved more than her, but by the end I was cheering and finding them sweet.
I can't wait to read Seth's story. I'm so curious about his and his ex-wife story.
This is A. Rivers third book and this is my third Arc Review for her. I always find it funny how easy her books are to me when I'm not that fan of fighter heroes. But the thing is that since the first book in this series, I'm very intrigued by these characters and I always volunteer to review her books.
With this one, it was no different. I loved the hero. He was very sweet, he knew what he wanted and he didn't stop till he got it, and he was always a respectable gentleman. I had a little bit of a problem with the heroine and a lot of times, I was thinking that Devon deserved more than her, but by the end I was cheering and finding them sweet.
I can't wait to read Seth's story. I'm so curious about his and his ex-wife story.
July 20, 2021
I'm torn as to my rating it 3.5 to a 4 star
Yet again another great fighter book by A. Rivers and to make it that much better was the sassy, badass fighter that is Seth's younger sister Harley. She has a instant connection with Devon, the young playboy that is training under Seth. The push and pull of this relationship was great but I got very frustrated and felt so sorry for Devon as he was taking the brunt of past relationships that effected Harley.
A secret relationship ensues and you become engrossed in the aspect of the relationship but I wanted to grab both the characters and just make them be open and honest. This was a great addition to this series and I am looking forward to the series moving forward. All in all this book is recommended by me but I feel that you need to read the series in order to get the benefits of the story.
July 26, 2021
Seductively riveting! With the third book in her Crown MMA series A. Rivers brings on the adorableness and heat by the boatload in FIGHTER'S SECRET. I felt their story ended very abruptly and while we were given a glimpse into Seth's story coming up next, I still wanted a more complete settling in for them as a couple. I'm looking forward to the next book!
Devon is just the sweetest! He's self-assured and knows he's all that, but the second he sets eyes on Harley, he knows she's the one for him. He's really quite adorable in his pursuit and I loved him.
Harley is hard to like. We only get a hint of the relationship that she's coming off of that has her guarded and bitter, but hiding him away instead of owning her feelings was hard to overcome in my book. She really needed to let us see her softer side, especially in her relationship with her brother.
I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a sport heavy romance circling around MMA and the close-knit core teammates at one gym.
Devon is just the sweetest! He's self-assured and knows he's all that, but the second he sets eyes on Harley, he knows she's the one for him. He's really quite adorable in his pursuit and I loved him.
Harley is hard to like. We only get a hint of the relationship that she's coming off of that has her guarded and bitter, but hiding him away instead of owning her feelings was hard to overcome in my book. She really needed to let us see her softer side, especially in her relationship with her brother.
I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a sport heavy romance circling around MMA and the close-knit core teammates at one gym.
June 26, 2021
I'm a HUGE fan of the Crown MMA Romance series so I'm always excited when a new release comes out. Harley has been living in Thailand for some odd years now as a muay thai fighter, but things happened so she ended up back home with her brother. Devon is her brother's protégé, but these two have quite a connection quickly. And now we get to that whole forbidden aspect since her brother is training him up so the push & pull gets going, and when they can't deny it any longer, it then becomes a dirty little secret situation which I found to be just a tad much but that's just me. Will Harley finally get over worrying about how her brother will take it to have a future with Devon?! Please remember this is only my opinion, so hit those one click buttons to decide for yourselves! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 25, 2021
This is the 3rd book in this series and is Devon and Harley’s story. Harley has just returned to the US after having problems with her former coach and is now living with her brother Seth who will be her coach and she will train at his gym. Devon is a protegee of Seth’s and from the moment he and Harley meets there is an instant attraction, which is forbidden, but the chemistry between them is explosive and undeniable. Devon is big hearted and sweet, and he has his work cut out for him to break through Harley’s defences and to coax her out of her shell. Can they keep their relationship a secret? This is a good story which is entertaining and intriguing, but the only downside in my opinion only, is that I struggled to engage with Harley. However, I look forward to reading more from this talented author and I recommend her work.
December 21, 2022
I think the book started off well but some things bothered me so I couldn’t rate it higher. Devon was amazing, but I couldn’t warm up to Harley and Seth. I liked that Harley was an amazing fighter and I understood her reservations at the start, but it’s like she kept coming up with reasons to not trust Devon even though he never let her down and kept proving himself to her. Seth annoyed me too with his ‘rules’ he didn’t even give them a chance and let it go as far as Devon leaving, it was ridiculous and I wish someone called him out on it.
I also found it weird that Lena, Sydney, Gabe, and Jase were removed from the later part of the book. Yes, there were one or two sentences mentioning them, but they’ve been written to be very close friends so it’s weird that we didn’t see their reactions to Devon and Harley’s relationship and they were okay with Seth’s decision to kick Devon out.
I also found it weird that Lena, Sydney, Gabe, and Jase were removed from the later part of the book. Yes, there were one or two sentences mentioning them, but they’ve been written to be very close friends so it’s weird that we didn’t see their reactions to Devon and Harley’s relationship and they were okay with Seth’s decision to kick Devon out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2021
"When the right thing comes along, we instinctively recognize it." Devon, Fighter's Secret by A Rivers
Have you ever found that one thing that you just knew was right? It could be the right job, the right best friend, or if you are lucky the right love. This book is about finding that right thing. Devon couldn't have been more right when he said the quote above to Harley. When it's right you just know. There is no denying it, no fighting it, and it doesn't matter who is against it. It will happen.
This book is an engaging, well written story. These characters will make you fall in love with them more and more from beginning to end. I didn't want to put it down. It is an intriguing mix of sports romance, forbidden, and brother's best friend.
Have you ever found that one thing that you just knew was right? It could be the right job, the right best friend, or if you are lucky the right love. This book is about finding that right thing. Devon couldn't have been more right when he said the quote above to Harley. When it's right you just know. There is no denying it, no fighting it, and it doesn't matter who is against it. It will happen.
This book is an engaging, well written story. These characters will make you fall in love with them more and more from beginning to end. I didn't want to put it down. It is an intriguing mix of sports romance, forbidden, and brother's best friend.
July 26, 2021
I just love it when once a guy fell hard for a girl, he just went all in and pursue her. This is the case with Devon and Harley. Harley has been burn before so she's definitely not in the market for a romantic relationship any time soon. Devon has his work cut out for him when he fell for Seth's off-limits sister.
I loved DEvon's character a lot. He has been dubbed a player, but I think his status is very misunderstood. It's just that he hasn't found the right girl just yet. Once he knew what he wanted, he didn't stop until he got it. They got that instant connection and the right push and pull between them. But Harley's a bit of a problem though. I just think he deserves better than her. All because he was taking the brunt of her past hung-ups. Until she realised things.
I can't wait for Seth and Ashlin's story next!
I loved DEvon's character a lot. He has been dubbed a player, but I think his status is very misunderstood. It's just that he hasn't found the right girl just yet. Once he knew what he wanted, he didn't stop until he got it. They got that instant connection and the right push and pull between them. But Harley's a bit of a problem though. I just think he deserves better than her. All because he was taking the brunt of her past hung-ups. Until she realised things.
I can't wait for Seth and Ashlin's story next!
January 24, 2023
Harley Isles is Seth’s younger sister. She has been in Thailand fighting. She finds out her coach/lover wants her to throw a fight and she says no. He then tells her that he’s been cheating on her for a long time. She packs up and moves to Las Vegas to stay with Seth and have him coach her. Seth owns Crown MMA and tells all his fighters that Harley is off limits and tells Harley to stay away from the other fighters. However, Devon Green takes one look at Harley and knows she should be his.
Will Harley and Devon stay away from each other? Will Seth let Harley follow her heart or make it all about work?
Will Harley and Devon stay away from each other? Will Seth let Harley follow her heart or make it all about work?
July 22, 2021
It’s always great to read a new MMA story.
Jase and Gabe were fantastic and Devon makes it complete.
At first you would think he’s a player but actually he’s a great guy with a heart of gold. I loved how persistent he was in showing Harley how he felt.
She was more hesitant because of her past but did he win her over or not and was Seth ok with them being together?
Just read the story and you will found out..
I’m already looking forward to reading Seth’s story!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jase and Gabe were fantastic and Devon makes it complete.
At first you would think he’s a player but actually he’s a great guy with a heart of gold. I loved how persistent he was in showing Harley how he felt.
She was more hesitant because of her past but did he win her over or not and was Seth ok with them being together?
Just read the story and you will found out..
I’m already looking forward to reading Seth’s story!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2021
Book three in the Crown MMA Series is another hit. Devon has to work pretty hard to win Harley over. She’s pretty sure he’s a player and doesn’t want to go down that road again. She doesn’t trust easily because of her past. But she cannot deny her attraction to Devon. And Devon is pretty sure he has found his soul mate. These two dance around each other, but the chemistry is off the charts. I loved reading about these two. We get all the others too. Seth, Gabe, Jase and the girls. I love when characters cross over from the other books. Great job on another MMA book.
January 20, 2023
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this book.
I really liked how badass Harley was in this book. Devon surprised me with how mature he acted while pursuing Harley because the previous couple of books in this series had him characterised as a crazy, immature MMA fighter. The insta-love aspect in this story was really sweet and different from the other tropes used in the series (Jase's slow burn and Gabe's best-friends-to-lovers). I love it when the guy falls first and falls harder, which is exactly what happened with Devon.
Looking forward to reading Seth's story next.
I really liked how badass Harley was in this book. Devon surprised me with how mature he acted while pursuing Harley because the previous couple of books in this series had him characterised as a crazy, immature MMA fighter. The insta-love aspect in this story was really sweet and different from the other tropes used in the series (Jase's slow burn and Gabe's best-friends-to-lovers). I love it when the guy falls first and falls harder, which is exactly what happened with Devon.
Looking forward to reading Seth's story next.
September 4, 2021
Devon & Harley
I love these two together. Harley is Seth's half sister and Devon is one of his fighters. Harley is back in the states after training in Thailand for 8 years, Devon instantly falls for her but she needs more convincing. Seth warned both of them that he doesn't want romance among his fighters in case all goes wrong, but they can't stay away from each other. Great story.
I love these two together. Harley is Seth's half sister and Devon is one of his fighters. Harley is back in the states after training in Thailand for 8 years, Devon instantly falls for her but she needs more convincing. Seth warned both of them that he doesn't want romance among his fighters in case all goes wrong, but they can't stay away from each other. Great story.
January 30, 2023
Deacon has always been a player but Harley has knocked him for a loop. Harley has had her heart broken and trusting doesn't come easy for her. The attraction between the pair is palpable but Deacon wants her only if she is all in. Since he would be risking not just his career but his friendship. She concedes and things are great until her brother is told and that leads some issues but it doesn't keep them apart from each other. They begin to see pass the hurt and get to the heart of each other. Hopefully Seth will see that Deacon is finally giving his playboy ways and is ready to fully committed to making his sister Harley happy.
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November 11, 2021I really loved this book. Devon is totally book boyfriend material at its finest, he's funny, sweet and charming. Loved that they wrote such a strong female character who's a total bad-ass. The fact that Devon loved and supported her in her career. Absolutely amazing book that is totally worth the read. Also sets up for Seth's story, which I cannot wait to come out.
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