This sequel was even better than the first book for a load of reasons. It's fast-paced and entertaining with a host of truly kick-butt characters. My only issue is that there is a serious lack of diversity, which would make this more realistic, but... I rather that if an author is not interested or confident in writing about characters of various ethnic/racial/cultural backgrounds, then don't. Nothing worse than reading stereotypes in 2014, and I've stumbled across some appalling stuff from mainstream authors.Still, this is a sexy, fun and gritty story that I would recommend to anyone interested in heavy, hard-hitting romance from two people who know what they want and go about it all out. This is a direct sequel to Against the Ropes, a book I liked very much. The hero and heroine of this story were introduced there (along with a number of other supporting characters) and had the breakup which is at the root of this story. In other words, it CAN be read as a standalone (the author does a good job of providing the backstory) but I recommend starting with the first book.I liked Jake. A lot. I mean, he’s hot, he’s alpha and is not totally blind to reason – so what’s not to like? Amanda on the other hand is more driven than the entire crew of the Indianapolis 500. Add to that the fact I REALLY disliked her promiscuity in the first book and you can see it took me a while to warm up to her. In fact I kept checking out other characters hoping there was someone better waiting in the wings for Jake… That said, I finally got it that she was just a girl looking for love in all the wrong places and calling it by all the wrong names. So looking at Jake just plain scared her – and she messed it up because she couldn’t accept what she knew he was offering. This book starts two years after their breakup in book one. They run into each other professionally – his company needs legal assistance and she is the lawyer assigned to the case. Awkward? Oh yeah. She still has issues but has come to realize how much she lost and he is afraid she’s still the same person who threw him away. But the old chemistry is still sizzling, and sparking, and just about combusting… They bounce apart and together like they were on bungee cords.Being a Redemption book, there are lots of great action scenes at the gym but the primary plot is the romance between Jake and Amanda and their confrontations with their various issues (commitment, self-worth, living – and frequently NOT living – up to the expectations of others to name but a few.) The underlying question, especially for Amanda, seems to be ‘Do you let your past define you or do you take charge of your own life?’One of the author’s strengths is in her strong supporting characters – each has a definition and voice that add to the story and the setting. Each of them is clearly an individual, someone you’d recognize if you met them. I hope some of them will get their own stories in the future.It’s an excellent read.Redemption seriesAgainst the Ropes (Redemption, #1)In Your Corner (Redemption, #2)Full Contact (Redemption, #3) upcomingCopy received from Netgalley and publisher for an honest review.
What do You think about In Your Corner (2014)?
I am in love with this series and want more!! Hot alpha males, mma fighting....it's awesome
—BomPow
This was a good read...I love a good alpha male...
—Haly
