In a sizzling MMA romance from Sidney Halston (“An author to watch!”—Cherry Adair), a former title contender turns the tables on his knockout trainer with a lesson in seduction.
Once one of the most sought-after names on the mixed martial arts circuit, Antonio “Scarface” Marino watched his career go down for the count as he chased skirts and made tabloid headlines. Now he’s finally making a comeback, and it’s all thanks to Francesca Silva, a Brazilian bombshell as tough as any of her fighters. But who’s the real Francesca: the trash-talking trainer who rides him hard, or the vulnerable woman who blushes at his touch?
Francesca went to the mat to sign Tony because she believes he still has the potential to bring big success to her gym—if she can keep his head in the cage and out of her personal life. After a short-lived marriage soured her on love, a one-night stand is all she can handle. Now Tony’s kisses are stirring up complicated feelings—especially when he agrees to face her ex in the ring. Francesca’s used to freezing guys out. But Tony’s tempting her to give in to the heat.
Praise for Sidney Halston’s Against the Cage
“Against the Cage is funny, steamy, scorching—and holy hot MMA fighter, I wanted more! Five stars all the way!”—New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Toni Aleo
“A steamy and fun romance that will leave readers begging for more!”—New York Times bestselling author Cherry Adair
“Halston’s new series opener creates an organic and sensual dynamic between Jack and Chrissy that makes an easy buy-in for readers. And if the story isn’t endearing enough, Jack’s feisty Chihuahua/pit bull mix will have readers instantly hooked and eagerly awaiting the second series installment.”—Library Journal
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
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Sexual Content - 4/5
4/5
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Violence - 0/5
0/5
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Language - 5/5
5/5
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Drugs and Alcohol - 1/5
1/5
Summary
Below the Belt by Sidney Halston is book three in her MMA (mixed martial arts) romance. I have not read the other two books and felt this one stood on its own. The other characters are part of the gym and the circle of friends so you may be interested enough to go back and read their stories. Francesca owns Worth The Fight gym/training facility and is a Brazilian bombshell. She is tough as nails and can kick butt literally and figuratively. I liked her character except for the excessive profanity. She has an interesting backstory, you are routing for her to accept her feelings for Tony. You are fighting for her to not lose her gym. Tony is a likable character (maybe because he did his skirt chasing in the other books and not in this one). In Below the Belt he is focused on Francesca. He has his own issues – jealousy and a terrible temper. One minute he is borderline vulgar and the next minute you are sighing as he is so sweet and attentive to Francesca’s issues. He understands her and doesn’t give up on her. If you like MMA and do not mind excessive profanity. you might like it.
Violence not really violence. Just MMA fighting.
Language F word – 181 times, damn 47 times. Excessive profanity and vulgar words used.
Sexual There are several sex scenes throughout the book and sex talk.
Drug & Alcohol casual drinking. i don't recall it interfering with the story.