ARC Review: Beneath the Surface by M.A. Stacie

Summary:

Kyran Reese is a man in control. Driven when it comes to work, focused when it comes to play. From his office to the chalk circle of Metro’s bare-knuckle boxing ring, his only thought is to win. That thirst heightens when Dale Porter enters his life. His brother’s assistant should be off limits, but her witty comments and sarcastic comebacks have him desperate to get her between the sheets.  After receiving an unexpected left hook, Kyran gets exactly what he wants, though he makes the rules very clear.

When Dale agrees to Kyran’s relationship stipulation of no labels, she’s sucked into a whirlwind of lust, money, and underground boxing.  The agreement to keep their lust away from the office is discarded when rules are molded to suit their ever-increasing attraction. Dale fights her growing affection, trying to hide it even when the world around them spirals out of control. All too soon she realizes she can’t hide her true feelings any longer.

Kyran begins to wonder if he’s finally met his match, and with his family falling apart before his eyes, he turns to the two things he knows will keep him sane: boxing and Dale. Those crutches can’t last forever, and when Kyran finds it harder to function he is left with a decision he never thought he’d have to make.
Could playing to win mean playing for keeps?

http://ph.thewriterscoffeeshop.com/books/detail/96

Sarah's Goodreads Review:

First and foremost, I need to thank M.A. Stacie for giving me an ARC of this story. I am honored that you thought of me. I have been a fan of Ms. Stacie's writing since her first novel, Unwritten Rules. With each story, I enjoy her writing even more. This story is no exception.

Kyran Reese is a business man who is also a bare knuckle fighter. We meet Kyran as he is attempting a break from the Metro, the place where he fights, and then he meets Dale, Taylor's new assistant. Taylor is Kyran's brother and is hiding something vital from the family. Dale knocks Kyran on his @$$ without even realizing it.

Dale is beginning a new job after a break-up and discovering her best friend sleeping with her boyfriend. She arrives at her new job and meets Kyran. Their interaction had me laughing from the get go.

A chance meeting at Metro spins Kyran world on its axis. Dale begins to see a side of Kyran that not many know about. Dale also picks up Taylor's secret and repeatedly tells Kyran that something is going on.

I have to say this story is one of my favorites of Ms. Stacie's. I can not wait for book 2 to be completed