Fighting Pretty

The challenges facing women in Wales who turn their hand to a male-dominated sport are explored with humor and pathos in this vivacious novel. Inspired by a photo of her grandfather, the downtrodden Liz turns her energies to amateur Welsh boxing and immediately finds herself set back by macho trainers, ex-pros, injuries, and insults. She perseveres to learn that boxing is also full of kind and intelligent people and that the differences between male and female boxers may not be as great as they first appear. The harsh, cash-strapped world of Welsh boxing is brought to life through Liz's struggles and triumphs, and with intense dedication and a network of support, Liz eventually learns to fight her own battles both in and out of the ring.