The Clinch

This was my first Nicole Disney book and I have to admit, I was very skeptical when I read the synopsis because I wasn't sure if this book would be for me. Fortunately, I read a bunch of others' reviews and all were extremely positive, so I took a chance, and boy am I glad I did.

Nicole Disney did an amazing job of creating real and raw characters. I found her ability to describe each practice and fight sequence to be riveting. Her attention to detail was so on point that you could visualize everything that was going on. The romance was smoking hot as well! I really loved everything about this book and I look forward to reading every other book Ms. Disney writes!

Reviewed by Jenna Faller

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝗺𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗻.

... It had gripping scenes that had me on the edge and my brains are now completely fried. The MMA matches were fantastically written and so descriptive that it brought the fights to life – the punches, cheers, crowds and all. It brought back memories of a live Muay Thai fighting match I’d been to in Thailand, and even then I wasn’t as excited about the live match as I was reading this fictitious one. And if anyone can convert me into a sports fan, its Disney.

Disney did a great job with characterisation. Under the layer of fame and façade as MMA celebrities, the MCs themselves, Eden and Brooklyn were exciting people to know. Both came from underprivileged backgrounds, worked their asses off, and still managed to remain good people despite what they had achieved. The chemistry between the MCs were also off the charts because aside from the physical spark, there was a progressive connection between them that made it believable. And on this note, I would like to add that there a couple of scenes that were steamy and they were great.

This is my first book written by Disney and I am blown away. Can I have a sequel now, please?

Reviewed by pipsqueakreviews

This book was incredible. If you don't believe me read some of the other reviews out there. This for sure will have to go down as the best Sports themed Lesbian romance of 2021 and it's just January!!!! I am not sure if Disney has another other romances out there, BUT I will be going to look to see what else she has to offer.

The Clinch has action, chemistry, serious topics of homophobia, love, and admiration. Jeez, it was just so good and I honestly can't wait until the audio version of this romance to come out. The main Eden and Brooklyn are both loveable characters. The secondary characters add value and even though their is homophobia in this romance, it is done well. Listen, just read this one - you will enjoy it.

5 amazing stars - I can't say enough good things about this book!

Reviewed by Kaen Nell

What I like most about this author is her fearlessness in writing stories about incredibly strong women. Oftentimes, I feel I have been grabbed by the pages and shaken furiously from one scene to the next. The Clinch is no different, where we find two MMA fighters fall in love with each other. Despite the violent nature of their occupations, neither woman is a knuckle-dragging miscreant, even though both of them grew up under harsh conditions for different reasons. The delicate balance of their love affair coupled with the raw power of the professional bouts is indeed jarring at times, but the softer edge is always found around the corner despite their up and down relationship. It does not matter if you’re into professional MMA or not, you will be swept away by the action and their journey to a happily ever after nonetheless.

Reviewed by Cathie Williamson

This book is a knock out. The only thing I know about Mixed Martial Arts is that on Friends one of Monica's boyfriends wanted to be a champion. I thought I could skim through the fights scenes if I wasn't interested. I found I was more than interested. I was inthralled.

This is a sport romance and the author brings the world of MMA competition to life. Eden Bauer is the reigning UFC Featherweight champion. She lives and teaches classes in her dojang, where a Grandmaster once took her in as teen. Brooklyn shaw is 22, Brazilian born and descends from MMA royalty. After a few fights she is the media darling and the only thing she wants is the championship belt. Eden stands in her way.

I was blown reading about the training and the precision needed for fights. And in the fight scenes the action is fast paced and written so a novice like me can follow. I was on pins and needles not knowing who I wanted to be victorious. Circumstances allow the two to train together and to learn to trust each other. The attraction is sizzling between the two MCs as are the intimate scenes.

Disney brought in wonderful side characters to round out the story. Brooklyn's family members have their own distinct personalities as do Eden's friends and students. They add greatly to the storyline and let me understand what drives and motivates the two women. I held my breath in the final battle and was surprised at the perfect ending. I will probably never watch a MMA or UFC fight, but I came away with an appreciation for the sport. And I will gladly look for future books from Nicole Disney.

Reviewed by Kaye Cox