Hold Me Close

Shannyn Schroeder

Jul 2015 · Lyrical Shine

About this ebook

Leave it to the O’Learys to make romance a family affair…

Maggie O’Leary is finally coming home to Chicago. After more than a year in Ireland, she’s ready to make a plan for her future. But first, she’ll have to confront the tragedy that scarred her so deeply. Asking for a job in the family bar is the first step, and it’s one her family isn’t entirely happy about. At least Shane Callahan, her best friend in the world, is behind her a hundred percent. He’s also a hundred percent more lovable than she remembered…

Shane is determined to keep Maggie safe, even if it means working three jobs and giving up sleep to be around during her shifts at the bar. But when Maggie boldly tells him she needs more than a loyal friend now, Shane knows a single night together won’t be possible. The idea of spirited Maggie in his bed is electrifying, but will she believe he wants to give her his heart, too?

Ratings and reviews

The characters were complex, and the story was a strong, fresh take on what would otherwise be a standard plot. Schroeder manages to weave deep friendship, fun banter, and sad circumstances of the past together into a truly hopeful romance without glossing over the issues Maggie has to overcome. It’s a tough subject to include and treat appropriately, and while it does get the happily ever after treatment (as anyone would hope when it comes to a romance novel) plenty of attention is paid to Maggie’s feelings and recovery (for lack of a better word). Hold Me Close is easily one of the sweetest best-friends-to-more stories I’ve read, and if Shane doesn’t steal your heart, there’s something very, very wrong with you. ***FicCentral received this book from Kensington Books (via NetGalley) for free in exchange for an honest review.

Finishing this one is a bit bittersweet. While I loved Maggie and Shane's story, seeing this wonderful series come to an end is sad! This is a very emotional story and it was beautifully done. Five years ago Maggie O'Leary was the victim of date rape. While she thankfully doesn't remember the details, the emotional aftereffects have been crippling at times. Her one constant has been her friendship with Shane. Her latest request however will surely test that bond! While this is book 6 of a series it can easily be read stand alone, although I do recommend the series as well as this book!

I am so sad! I loved Maggie's sorry. I can't believe it's over. I loved, loved, loved this series.

About the author

Shannyn Schroeder is a former high school and middle school English teacher. She holds a BA in English and MAs in Special Education and Gifted Education. She currently works as an editor for an education company and juggles writing around her kids’ schedules. In her spare time, Shannyn loves to bake and watches far too much TV, especially cop shows. She started her first book on a dare from her husband and has never looked back. She came to reading romance later than many, but lives for the happy ending, and writes contemporary romance because she enjoys the adventure of new love.
 
Readers can visit Shannyn online at www.shannynschroeder.com and follow her on Twitter @SSchroeder_.