A review by fresholivebread
Punching and Kissing by Helena Newbury

adventurous challenging dark emotional hopeful sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

To save her brother, she begs a hardened ex-fighter to train her for illegal pit fights. He's tormented and broody, and her strength, utter will, and vulnerability bring all his protective instincts to the surface. Their chemistry is electric - the fighting/training scenes are charged with sexual tension. Their connection grows stronger as they weathered through the push/pull, his past and the present dangers. He is willing to do anything to protect her, and I really liked how she breaks down his barriers and makes him see that he deserves her love. Despite the dark themes and all the angst, their romance has its sweet and steamy moments, and gets pretty emotional as well. Though the angst was a bit much at times - they need a break! The suspense/action is good, with some out-there twists. But the villain really needs a harsher end. 

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