I LOVED learning Shayla's story and what she went through to land at Redemption. I had thought she was an interesting character in prior books, but had no idea just how compelling her history would be. When Zack walked into Redemption, I was prepared to hate him, but the author made me care about him and his story as well. I felt invested in their story and found myself turning pages just as quickly as possible.

When you pick up a book by this author, you are assured of compelling characters with depth and sexy romance. For fans of the genre, this is a must read. While this is part of a series, this is a stand alone novel. The series is so good, though, you really owe it to yourself to read them all. The author is on my must read authors' list.

Absolutely loved Shayla and Zack's story. These two were each other's destinies as they had the deep bond growing up that cemented their souls! Each have struggled and have relied on each tremendously as young kids/young adults. One special night that Shayla has waited on forever ends with heartbreak and devastation. Shayla takes a different path in life that shatters her hopes and dreams, but that path has made her into the strong willed and strong bodied woman Zach sees when he walks into Redemption.

Zach had a quick rise of success in the MMA. Destroying opponents and earning championship belts, Zach thinks he has it all until a disastrous fight changes his life. Shocked to see his little ballerina in a MMA gym Zach decides he needs to stay and learn more about Shayla's life and try to get her to let him back in and be a part of it.

The hurt of Shayla when Zach leaves her is felt in the words of this book. But we also feel Zach's desire to be more and give more to Shayla- the only problem is he destroyed her in the way he goes about accomplishing those desires. These two are so wound up being near each other you know it won't be long until they are together. The problem is- that never settles the wounds that are unseen.

Shayla and Zach are meant for one another. This story brings the heat and passion of the ring to the couple that are inevitably going to get together. The getting there is an awesome story in friendship, love and passion.

Strong Hold is the 5th instalment of the Redemption erotica romance series by Sarah Castille and focuses on Shaylla and Zack's story.

Ballet dancer turned amateur MMA fighter Shayla "Shilla the Killa" Tyler thought she was over her broken heart when Zack left her seven years ago; however, he's back and he's now at her club recruiting fighters for MEFC, a prestigious MMA promotion company and he has his sights set on locking Shayla down, both in the ring and in the bedroom.

Sarah Castille does not disappoint, but I have to say, this story was not up-to-par with her others. Even though it's part of a series, you can read this book as a stand-alone as each novel focuses on a different set of characters within the same fight club, but of course it's always fun to read them all. I rate this novel 3.5 out of 5 on the hot scale. Check my blog to read the review for 4th book, Fighting Attraction. (If you enjoy reading Castille novels, I highly recommend reading the Sinner’s Tribe Motorcycle Club series, my favourite Sarah Castille series).

Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing a copy of this novel in exchange for a fair review. https://moesbookblog.wordpress.com/

Reviewed: May 26, 2018. Novel Publish Date: July 3, 2018.

I really love MMA romance novels. This is the first that I've read where the lady is also a MMA fighter. So much better.

In Strong Hold, we meet Zach and Shayla. Zack is a former MMA championship fighter who retired after his opponent died following their fight. Shayla is an amateur MMA fighter and former ballerina. She and Zach had a long-term relationship when they were younger, but Zach ended it when Shayla had an opportunity to dance with a prestigious ballet company. They meet again several years later, both carrying a lot of emotional baggage. The author provided strong character development, which led this reader to root for the tormented main characters in a nicely structured story.

Sarah can write one hell of an alpha male and at the same time a kick ass heroine who is just as intriguing as the hero. I loved her mob series and have been a fan since she penned her first fighter romance “ Against the Ropes” . She’s a great author and “Strong Hold” exceeded all expectations.

Thanks to Netgalley for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.

I love this series and have since book 1 and this one did not disappoint. Strong characters who are likable and relate able. A storyline that makes you want to keep reading when you know you have to get some sleep. I love that the characters from past novels are reoccurring throughout the book.

I love big strong tough heros and now I love big strong tough heroines. I love the weaknesses and the strength of both protagonists. A great read!

5 stars!

I love revisiting old friends and making new ones in this series of books. A fun, sexy, and intense second chance romance, this is a great addition to the series.

Zack is a very protective man when it comes to his woman, "Zack’s eyes narrow. “Did anyone check the building? The grounds? Vehicles in the parking lot? Are you sure there aren’t any more? Is Symbian putting on extra security?” Zack doesn't like sharing, and the man makes his woman speechless at times, “you should thank me for that, too,” he says, nodding at the departing car. “We’re gonna need a new set of rules while I’m coaching you to greatness. No other men.” My mouth drops open, and for a moment, I am at a loss for words." Zack is a very perceptive man,“you look angry and not very interested in taking off your clothes and welcoming me home.” I liked this book, Zack was a persistent man.

Shayla’s life hasn’t been easy but she continues to be a fighter. Making the most of her life she continues to train hard but the ghosts of the past still haunt her. From her ex husband and to the man she has only loved fear has slowly consumed her in the ring. Only one man can help her achieve her dreams, too bad he is also the one that shattered her heart. Love how this series flows and the the characters from previous books still are mentioned. Another great story from Sarah Castille!

Wow!!! What a book!!! Ugh I'm gonna have a hang over after that!! I've been in such a book slump and this book has definitely brought me out of it!! I have read all the others in this series but you don't have to! I've been waiting for the next book in this series and sara h did not disappoint! This is shilla the killa book!! All the redemption crew is in this book, and I highly highly recommend this book and series!! Definitely don't miss out on this one! A huge thank you to sourcebook and NetGalley for sharing this book with me! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! And thank you Sarah Castille for your wonderful words!!

Great read. Even though it is part of a series, it gives enough detail to be read as a stand alone. At times I wanted to shake the characters but each step of the journey was necessary to get them where they needed to be. A group of characters brought together as a family with each book bringing closure to their past. A series worth reading.

First time reading Sarah Castille and I kinda hoped that I had read more of this series before diving in with this book. I really wanted to get to know more of the other characters backstories :)
Shayla and Zack were a pretty combustible couple and the long, winding road they took to get to each other was enjoyable but I have to say that I was a little frustrated with how quickly Shayla forgave Zack...I can't quite put my finger on it but I wanted her to make him work a bit harder to get back in her good graces...but I am willing to forgive that because of the chemistry they have, Castille doesn't lack in writing about sexual tension...woo boy! The other gripe I have about this book has nothing to do with this book at all by myself, I wished that I knew a bit more about MMA fighting...so maybe I can watching some matches or something.

It was slow for me at the beginning but then I reall got into it and enjoyed it. I liked the back and forth between the two main characters. A good romance!

Shayla and Zack were childhood sweethearts but when Zack left Shayla's world fell apart. Now years later they meet again and Shayla has to decide if she'll give Zack another chance. She survived a terrible marriage and blames Zack. This is another great addition to the Redemption series about MMA fighters and their women/men.