Hold You Close

Absolutely amazing book written by 2 of my favorite authors. Loved every single part of it. Don’t wait to buy this book. Ian and London have a love/hate relationship from the start. Ian is the playboy party boy that lives behind the crazy cat lady. Then they are forced into a situation that neither ever believed or wanted to be in. Choices are made and lives are forever changed. Absolutely loved the chemistry and the bantering between the two of them. Plus, the kids involved in the book, don’t get me started ?.

Sizzle, simmer swoon

Authors Corinne Michaels and Melanie Harlow have written a seamless, flowing masterpiece. The story flows like a river...it takes unexpected turns, has some turbulent times, crashes over rocks, runs hot and cold,; but most of all glistens in the sunlight! I can't tell where one author's words begin and end or the others weave in and out. The transitions are undetectable and the story is delectable!

London had a crush on her best friend's older brother Ian.  The three of them were friends. One night led to all of her wishes and dreams coming true and the next day ended in heartbreak. Was everything what it seemed? Did more than one heart get broken?

Almost twenty years later tragedy strikes and Ian and London have to put their hatred aside and step up to help three children. Can they move past their anger? I don't want to spoil the story for you. It is truly beautiful!

Congratulations to these two authors on a beautifully written second chance romance. It is seamless, intricately woven and a story that I will hold in my heart!

What to say about this incredible book. I cried lots, my eyes are swollen from it, BUT IT WAS SO WORTH IT. Ian and London are perfection. This book is the perfect example of giving up the one you love to make their dreams come true. About sacrificing your own happiness to make sure the person you love more than anything gets the life you feel they deserve, even if it breaks your heart and theirs. London has loved her best friends older brother for as long as she can remember, until he broke her heart and she tries her best to hate him. A love like this is what makes all the pain worth it. Dreams change and people change. The chemistry between them is unstoppable. There is a thin line between love and hate, and even tho they both pretend to hate each other to try and protect their hearts There is no denying the love between them, It's soul deep, tho their journey is crazy, bumpy, sometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking it's all worth it. Life and love aren't always easy, but when its meant to be there is no stopping it.

Let’s start off with this cover...are you kidding me, it’s magical! I’m often hesitant about co-written books, I find that I’m able to tell when one author stops and the other begins and I feel like it’s a distraction. Well, never fear, that’s not the case with this duo, this story is seamless! Both authors have brought their very best to the table and you won’t be disappointed. I fell so hard for these characters...all of them, their story just touched my heart and I couldn’t wait to see what the next page held for them. Well done ladies, I look forward to the two of you working together again (fingers crossed!!).

This book is off the charts for a “Second Chance” romance novel.  The chemistry between Ian and London is electrifying. I really enjoyed that you don’t know if there will be HEA.  Corinne and Melanie wrote great together.  You feel like you are in the story and not reading.  It was a book that once I started I could not stop.  Get ready to laugh, cry and ready to knock the crap out of both Ian and London. This is a great book and a must read.  You can’t do anything but love it

I honestly didn't really like the bickering..i felt like London really needed to move on, she didn't date or see anybody the whole time Ian was married or screwing with other woman? That's a long time. I didn't understand why he "hated" her, okay so she didn't listen to you...so u just gave up? I felt like he truly never fought for her I mean he married someone else, and London obviously was across the street living at ur house..so why didn't you right for her if you supposily loved her? I like when my hero fights for what he wants and let's the heroine know he's there always. Ian was just mean and saying hurtful things for no reason bc he was "insecure" not buying the love and not buyinf the happily ever after. I'm giving it three star bc I really do love the author and the book was a emotional read. Just felt like she romance was a dud

Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels need to write many more books together! This book is a wonderful read! It has angst, heartbreak, banter, laughter and 2 people who truly do love each other but don't know how to make it work!

Ian and London have know each other for years- Ian is London's best friends brother and when the unthinkable happens- they must work together in lose for the sake of 3 kids. The family dynamic and love between all of these characters is wonderful.

I could not put this book down and read it in 1 evening. I cried, I laughed, I felt the joy, the heartbreak and the true love throughout the book!

When Corinne Michaels and Melanie Harlow announced they were going to collaborate on a book together, I was very, very happy. I love each of these author's books and I couldn't wait to see what they had in store for us. Hold You Close really, really tugs on the heartstrings, let me just tell you!

This story is an enemies to lovers, second chance romance that has an angst factor of 10. Ian and London shared a very special night together 17 years ago, until Ian screwed it all up and broke London's heart. Now both of their hearts are broken when Ian's sister, London's best friend, dies and leaves instructions for Ian to take care of her three children.

The push and pull factor between Ian and London is intense, hating each other one minute, lusting after each other the next. Both trying to figure out how to raise these three kids whose worlds are suddenly turned upside down. Both trying to figure out how to change their entire worlds for the kids, while still trying to go to work and do their jobs every day.

I have to admit, Ian infuriated me, most of the time! After reading what he did to London all those years ago, even knowing why he did it, his present day treatment of her made me grind my teeth almost to breaking. I could totally understand why she was a bitch to him, 99 percent of the time! I didn't jump on the Ian bandwagon until pretty much close to the end of the book. And then once I did, I was totally an Ian girl!! Yes, he redeemed himself, and yes, London probably could have cut back on the bitch factor towards Ian a long time ago, but that first heartbreak leaves an indelible mark on your heart, and everyone handles that kind of hurt differently.

I don't know which author wrote which parts, and it doesn't really matter, because the story moved at the perfect pace, the emotions were spot on, and the sexy times were oh so sexy!! And there was some heart in your throat drama at the very end that had me turning the pages way too fast to see how it was going to turn out!

Bravo, Corinne and Melanie! People are going to love this story!!

Absolutely amazing book written by 2 of my favorite authors. Loved every single part of it. Don’t wait to buy this book. Ian and London have a love/hate relationship from the start. Ian is the playboy party boy that lives behind the crazy cat lady. Then they are forced into a situation that neither ever believed or wanted to be in. Choices are made and lives are forever changed. Absolutely loved the chemistry and the bantering between the two of them. Plus, the kids involved in the book, don’t get me started ?.

Hold You Close is a first-time collaboration from Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels. I’ve loved both authors books induvially, so I was truly excited about them writing together. Needless to say, I was not at all disappointed!! HYC was an angsty, edgy, hard fought, second chance, enemies to lover’s romance that not only grabs your heart, pulling at your heartstrings too.

Growing up Ian’s sister, Sabrina, had been London's best friend. Through the years London had crushed on Ian and was totally in love with him. After a sweet, sexy night together with promises made this love came to a resounding halt. Ian would betray her the following night, as though the previous evening meant nothing to him. Heartbroken and hurt she pretty much just shuts Ian out.

Move forward 20 years. London is still single, yet still carries a torch for Ian but buries it deep inside. Vowing to never let a man do that to her again. She is a smart, driven and successful business woman who is focused on her job. The only problem she has is that Ian’s backyard joins hers. So, let’s just stay that she continues to be conflicted with her feelings about Ian. Still mad as hell but underneath it all she still has feelings for him, hence a love/hate relationship.

On the other hand, Ian is still the same arrogant, cocky guy she knew years ago. Only now he owns his own night club. His hours are spent sleeping late and working to the wee hours of the morning with his occasional tryst… sometimes flaunting it in front of London.

Then the unthinkable happens, both Ian and London are forced into a situation that they will need to bury the hatchet and work together. Both now find themselves taking care of their shared godchildren. This is were everything get a bit crazy. But can they put all their crazed feelings aside?

There will be tons of banter from these two. Sometimes you will just want to put them in a strait jacket, make them sit, look and listen to what they are saying and doing!! It really doesn’t take a shrink to see that underneath all that banter that there just might be something more for them! ~sigh

Some pretty amazing and seriously hot sex as well as fun times with the Godchildren! It’s these times you find yourself pulling for them! You will laugh at their antics but be prepared for a fairly emotional at times too. Will it be possible for these two to put their differences aside?

Loved Hold You Close!! The ups and downs of London and Ian will keep you on a rollercoaster of emotions!!

I can hardly wait for more from Melanie & Corinne!!

Wow! Just finished this beautiful love story and it is adorable. Ian and London have known each other forever. London is best friend with Ian’s sister growing up. At seventeen, Ian broke London’s heart after she had given him all her heart, body and soul. They had plan a future together but it seems Ian had a change of heart.
Ian has his secret reasons and it’s not what you think … London loathes Ian and never want to be near him ever again …. The only problem is now there are practically neighbor. London and Ian’s life just got a whole lot complicated when Ian’s sister and her husband passed away from a tragic accident. They left the children in the care of their only uncle. Ian is a bar owner who works all kind of late hours. He is also a man-wh*** with no short of different women coming and going. London does not think Ian is capable or responsible enough to take care of the kids. So as the God parent, London will be helping Ian care for the them. How will London be able to co-parent the kids if she hates Ian’s gut and they constantly fight like cat and dog.
Well, this book is all kind of angst and hilarious banters. Seriously, the sexual tension is off the chart. They can’t stand each other but the magnetic attraction they have for each other can’t be ignore. This is story of first love, sacrifice, second chance at love. It’s a bit heavy at the beginning but also pack with fun banters, foreplay, sizzling chemistry, and heart-warming love story. Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels are quite a pair. I love how the story flow seamlessly. I like the sassy dialogues and the jabs. Ian and London are both stubborn, it can be frustrating at time when neither wants to back down and put on their big boy panties. Some of the insults they throw at each other are cold and cringe-worthy (more coming from the hero) but I can see how that is a foreplay sort of thing. A few tiny details are also a bit unrealistic (the years apart and the celibacy). Over all, Hold Me Close is a fun and entertaining read.

4 Happily Ever After CROWNS

The queens of heart warming and angsty romances have crafter a romance filled with lovable kids, a sexy hero, and heroine who loves with her whole heart. 

Hold You Close is very much a character driven book. The hero, Ian, has sacrificed his chance and love for the woman he loves. The antagonism and hostility begin a life long tumultuous relationship between Ian and London.  They push each other's buttons at every single turn, and each gives as good as they get, making them both equally likable.  The chemistry between them between the sheets is pure fire, but it doesn't always translate to outside of the bedroom because of their obligations. 

The other characters in the book who stole the show are the children. These three kids pull at reader's heart strings. I do wish that their grief wouldn't have been glossed over as much as it was, but in terms of pacing and character purpose, they are are the impetus that pushes London and Ian back together.  Without them, there is no romance. The grief that these characters, Ian and London included, just didn't seem to be an authentic representation of the different stages of grief. 

Overall, the story is enjoyable. The characters are incredibly lovable, especially the kids. The pacing flows well. However, I felt like their second chance was too much like their first go at a relationship. There are little to no variations between the first time and second time London and Ian attempt to have a relationship, which ultimately showed a lack of growth for the characters. The only difference is the outcome, which I LOVED. The romantic grand gesture and the epilogue are fantastic. 

If you love a second chance romance, then this is for you. If you love romances kids, then this is for you. If you love sexy romances between antagonistic couples, this is absolutely for you. 

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

I always get excited when I see an author collaboration. There is just something about mixing two authors and their writing together that always cast a magical spell over the story. When I saw Corinne Michaels was collaborating and writing with Melanie Harlow, I was over the moon excited to see what they could dream up together. They did not disappoint me. I was able to read this book cover to cover in just a few hours. This story had a way of pulling you in so quick from the beginning, that I found myself reading when I should have been doing other things like cooking dinner or sleeping. This in every sense of the word, was truly a page turner. The mix of emotions they were able to pack into this one blew me away!

This is the story of London and Ian. She’s been in love with him since a very young age. He’s her best friends older brother, and the last person on earth she ever dreamed she’d fall for. But she did. Hard. Throughout the years they become estranged due to some events in their past and when tragedy throws them back together again, they are forced to find a way to make it work. The banter between them is very hot and sometimes very sad, as they do have a very strong love/hate relationship. At times I wanted to slap him, but I loved him even then. Ian has a way that he just pushes London’s buttons, and she really does the same to him. They both have unresolved feelings for one another, but life has a way of getting in the middle of what could be between them.

I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I basically fell in love with their very tragic and very whimsical love story. These authors paired so well together and were able to create such an original and captivating romance, that I hope they are able to write together again! I’d love to see what else they can come up with.

First, I just have to say that, separately, these two authors are powerhouse storytellers on their own, but together, they are amazing. Having read several of their individual books, I am quite familiar with their writing styles and capabilities to turn out powerful stories, and I'm happy to say that, together, they surpassed all my expectations. This book, quite simply, was amazing. From the tragic way it began to the happy way it concluded, it was just amazing. It had everything - the drama, the magic chemistry between two insanely hot people, the ups and downs of life, sexual tension and then some really sexy times, seemingly impossible choices, and humor. Under the circumstances, there might not seem to be any room for humor, but there were places that made me smile and two instances that made me laugh hard, so hard I couldn't stop - Corinne and Melanie, I think you know what I'm talking about. And let's just say, those laughs were really needed, so kudos on putting them in the right spot at the right time. Everything about this book just hit the right notes for me. There are some books I read that I just don't like one of the characters - usually the woman, because she comes off seeming too bitchy or snobby - but love the other, so I read it for that one. Not so with this book. I really liked both lead characters; they were both so well written that I never once rolled my eyes at their actions or had a bad thought about them. And they were o evenly matched, giving as well as they were getting. Ian and London just leap off the pages as full-bodied characters and the way they circle around each other, you can tell from the start how much they truly love and care for each other; the sacrifices they're willing to make for each other are just further proof. This has got to be one of the best books I've read this year and I read a lot. Definitely a favorite.

Hold You Close is a collaboration between two bestselling authors, Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels. They did a fantastic job working together to give you a solid romance that flowed well and writing that complemented each other. An emotional, gripping second chance romance that shined a light into the darkest of situations.

London Parish had a slight crush on her best friend’s older brother, she never would have thought he’d return the same feelings – until the morning after where confessions were whispered. But London had big dreams and Ian refused to be the reason why she lost sight of them.

Years later, London and Ian are having to face tragedy and put aside their history to focus on the three little people who just lost their entire world. But old feelings resurface quickly and what began as a love to hate story is magically turning into a love to hate to love story.

Harlow & Michaels gave good romance in this one, folks. Ian was cocky, bullheaded and a bit of a jerk – I think I loved and hated him through most of this book. And to give you an idea of how much you fall for these characters – my hate all stemmed from things that he *must have done* during the parts of the story we don’t get to see. Yeah, not rational at all – but you just can’t help but fall into this story and these characters.

I fell hard for this unconventional family. My heart broke for the kids and for both London and Ian who were having to navigate this new world without their rock to lean on.

I am fan of both of these authors and I’m going to blame all the tears on Corinne Michaels. And although this story had its heartbreaking moments, there was such hope given watching them bond and find a new normal.

If you love a good second chance romance and don’t mind a bit of angst and emotion – this is your book.

Enemies + 2nd chance + tragedy = one hell of a story

Ian and London have a some sticky history. Now they live across the yard from each and are about to embark on a journey neither of them are prepared for. London is Ian's sister's best friend. Since the 5th grade London has been a part of his life. And all of that time London has been in love with him, until their hearts shatter and then the begin the very long period of time where they hate each other.

Brought together by tragedy these two need to figure out how to get along. Which I promise is not easy feat. They relationship is easily one of the most explosive things on paper. They fight and spew nasty things at each other until they have to find common ground. Leave it up to three children to be the adults in many situations.

The banter and fighting was genuine. Even during the times where my heart broke I had to laugh out loud. Sabrina, for not being a present character was maybe one of my favorite people. The real life mishaps were funny and read true. Ian was a playboy but has a solid head on his shoulders. He might run a nightclub but he is smart and funny but SO stubborn. London is also smart and career driven. She has sacrificed a life to get to the top of the corporate food chain. She is a fighter, literally about everything, but her reasoning makes complete sense.

While it took a little longer than I would have liked for the adults to adult, I really enjoyed this book. I have read Michaels before and this is a first for me from Harlow. Their writing was seamless together. There were some feels and giggles. And a whole lot of emotions both angry and not. I can't wait to see what this due puts together in the future because I can't wait.

I have been reading Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels for years now and have loved everything they have written as individual authors. They are amazing writers respectively, however, together, they are phenomenal. They blew me away with all the feels in Hold You Close, their first collaboration as co-writers in this beautifully written touching and emotional second chance romance.

Ian Chase and London Parish had one perfect night together when they were younger. They laid their hearts and bodies out to each other and it could not have been more amazing for either of them. But then difficult choices were made and now eighteen years later they hate each other. It is difficult for them to even be in the same room together. But when tragedy strikes, can they put their differences aside for those they love?

I cannot begin to express how much I loved this story. Books like this is why I read. My heart soared, broke and swooned throughout Ian and London’s second chance journey. They were both really loyal, caring and determined people, but when it came to the other, all bets were off. But was it really hate driving them all these years?

Now they need to work together to build a future for the children they love. But what happens when the old walls begin to crumble? Can they finally have the future they always wanted or will the past happen all over again?

Hold You Close is a heartfelt and heartwarming second chance romance with all the right kind of feels. I loved every single character, from London, to Ian to the heartbreakingly sad children in their care. I could not put this book down. I devoured it. I hope we get to see more from this writing duo.

Loved it! Happy reading!

This year I started reading Corinne Michaels and I was excited about the premise of this one in particular because I love second chance romances. And then one that is about the best friend’s older brother? Count me in!

HOLD YOU CLOSE is written by an author duo and I am happy to report the writing felt seamless. I haven’t read Melanie Harlow before so I have nothing to compare this to, but if you’re a fan of Corinne Michaels style then you will definitely like this one. It’s definitely a sweet story.

Ian broke London’s heart during senior prom after taking her virginity. All these years later, and having had to interact with each other, she never got over that pain. And never really moved on either. Now her best friend and her husband died suddenly in a plane crash and their children are left in the care of her brother. Ian is now divorced, owns a nightclub and doesn’t have any plans to settle down or live responsibly. But he’s is forced to reconsider his choices after his nieces/nephew move in with him, and recognize he can’t handle all that alone and needs London’s help.

Let me get one thing out of the way… Ian is the textbook hero that I like to throttle over the head. The one that thinks he needs to give up on the love of his life because he’s only holding her back from achieving everything she’s meant to. Argghhhh. Infuriating. But at the same time he was adorable and I couldn’t help but enjoy this storyline and seeing them reconnect through years of anger and resentment. Bonus point for the adorable kids!

If you are looking for something sweet and sexy then give this one a shot. I’m definitely curious as to what these two authors will write next!

These two were just too many things, lol. The blurb has me thinking that this was going to be a very very emotionally sad book but nope the complete opposite. It did have its sad moments that were heartbreaking but then you watch two people with a past that seems like they can’t be in the same room and are thrown together for a special task. Throw in 3 adorable kids and you’re in for a very good read.

London was Ian’s sister best friend. He broke her heart and she’s never forgiven him. Years and years later she still hates him and he ignores her but he isn’t blind at the fact that she’s just as beautiful as ever and her at the fact that he’s still as hot as he was before. But that doesn’t mean they forgive and forget. Nope not these two. London is no one’s doormat and their back and forth and fights are hot, lol. This is like foreplay for these two stubborn people. He s 12 year old niece adds to this and it’s freaking hilarious.

During their sadness these two find a way to try and be civil with each other which is a huge task for them but they make it work. They turn a page and things seem to be working out. They do a magnificent job with the kids and are actually functioning. Until an incident occurs again and they are back to hating each other. This time there was more at stake to lose. But when Ian opened his eyes and did what he did I loved it. I had tears reading this part. These two were perfect for each other.

As for the kids, they were awesome!! And after reading the epilogue I really hope to read about them in the future because god knows how Ian will react to lots of things, hahahahaha.

London and Ian had deep feelings for each other when they were young, Ian shattered London’s heart and she’s never been able to forgive him. Connected by their love of Ian’s sister, Sabrina, they’ve had a contentious relationship throughout the years, intensifying when Ian became neighbors with London. Tragedy strikes bringing Ian and London back into each other lives and having to work together to raise three children. Ian’s a playboy, having a new woman whenever he wants and he wants often, he runs a night club and only cares about having a good time. London is convinced he isn’t responsible enough to be able to take care of the kids. London has never gotten over the pain Ian caused her, she constantly puts him down and fights with him. The chemistry between these two is combustible and the fighting seems to be foreplay, when they finally come together it’s HOT! To be honest, in the beginning I wasn’t even sure I would ever be able to like Ian, but as the story unfolds I realized what really drives Ian’s actions and started to feel for him and all he has been through. London, I loved her, feisty, loyal and not scared to put her own feelings to the side for the sake of three kids she loves like they are her own.

If you like second chance romances, do not hesitate to read HOLD YOU CLOSE. It will tick you off, have you laughing, rip your heart out and leave you with feelings of love and hope. HOLD YOU CLOSE proves there is a thin line between love and hate and that letting go of the hate to cross over to the love can lead you to the best thing ever.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

I've read books by Corinne Michaels before but this was my first time reading Melanie Harlow. I really loved their collaboration and what they did with this story.

Hold You Close is a second chance at love book. It starts with a bang and I was so brokenhearted while reading the prologue. Even though London and Ian have been almost enemies for years, when tragedy strikes they are forced to put their differences aside and consider the well being of the three little lives that they're responsible for now. But as you know it takes time, dedication, and a lot of forgiveness to heal the hurt that's been around for so many years.

First thing I have to say is that these two authors' writing is completely flawless, I couldn't tell there were two people telling this story due to how beautifully the words were delivered. The storyline, while heartbreaking at times, is give us two characters that are definitely not perfect by any means but show the reader that they care more for the lives that were trusted to them than their old conflict, but in order to keep a peaceful household they definitely have to deal with all the issues they've been carrying around for years.

I loved those kids so much, my heart ache for them and the loss they had just experienced. I fell for Ian because the decision he made years ago, while wrong, in his heart had been the right one at the time. And London, poor London suffering such a heartbreak right after she thought she had it all.

This is a beautiful story full of highs and lows, loss and hope, hurt and forgiveness. Is well developed and beautifully told. Highly recommended!

Falling in love with your best friend’s brother is both a blessing and a curse. For London – the pull towards Ian was inevitable. Years were spent trying to get Ian to notice London. When the two finally connected, it was everything that London had hoped for and more. Until the moment when things unraveling in the worst way. Leaving a love/hate relationship between the two that has lasted for years.

Most people would find a way to never see each other again, but Ian and London can’t get to that place in life. With Ian’s sister as London’s best friend, their paths cross more than either would care to acknowledge. Neither could have predicted that moment that their lives would once again become intertwined. A moment that rocked both of their lives in a monumental way. Can the two ever overcome the past and find a new future?

Hold You Close is a collaboration novel from authors Corinne Michaels and Melanie Harlow. The plot of this book is atypical and delivers a punch in the gut with all of the events that unfold throughout the book. Let me start with London….this heroine is determined, driven and very independent. I loved her drive in life, but most of all I loved the devotion she possesses for her best friend from childhood. That connection plays a huge part in the book, and delivers all of the emotion one would expect from this type of friendship.

Ian….Ian…Ian….the character that you want to hate, but just can’t quite make it to that place with him. There were so many times in the story that I found I wanted to shake Ian with everything I had. After all – I think all the drama over the years could have easily been alleviated if he had just ‘come clean’ about events that took place all those years ago. There were moments where I didn’t believe the response/reaction between Ian and London, but then other times seemed to be right on the money. A definite love/hate relationship with that existed for me as a reader.

The banter between Ian and London was absolutely spot on!! The two handled their situation with such realism. A difficult position for anyone, but especially these two adults. While I rolled my eyes and found some of the romantic parts between the characters a little too ‘easy’, I still enjoyed the novel from start to finish. A great romance for anyone that is a fan of the two authors.

Reviewed on behalf of The Book Boyfriend Addict.

'Why is there still this spark between us? How is it possible to hate someone and still want his hands on you? '

London Parish has had a crush on Ian Chase, her best friend’s big brother since she was just a kid and after one amazing night together when she was seventeen she was ready to give up everything to be with the boy she loved. But instead of happily ever after, Ian left her heartbroken the very next day and they’ve been enemies ever since. Now, eighteen years later, they find themselves having to sort of co-parent three children after suffering a tragic loss. This is just one more layer in their already complicated relationship but the longer they spend together the more old feelings resurface. Will this be the time they finally get it right or will history end up repeating itself and end up tearing them apart all over again?

I’m a fan of Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels’ solo work and I think they make great writing partners, I really enjoyed their first collaboration! This book was a huge angst fest but it also had plenty of really sweet moments and even some swoon! As far as enemies-to-lovers stories go, this one was pretty epic. I can’t remember another time where the main couple fought quite as much as Ian and London did. And it’s not just bickering, this was all out fighting and there were some really hurtful things tossed back and forth. All I can say is thank god that we got dual POVs in this one or else I think I would have hated Ian!! That man could be such a jerk and you’re going to want to slap him but seeing how much he beats himself up over the crap he says and seeing his motivations behind it really make you realize that he’s not a bad guy. When these two weren’t at each other’s throats they were really cute together. I LOVED seeing them come together to be there for the kids, these moments were probably my favorite. I also really loved the last few chapters and the epilogue was perfect!! And be sure to sign up to receive the bonus epilogue, it’s a great peek into their future. I look forward to these two talented authors pairing up again!

“Lower your guard, London. You don’t need to protect yourself from me anymore.”

Reviewed by Anna Green on behalf of KFF

London Parish met the love of her life when she was young. She adored him and thought he only saw her as his sister’s annoying best friend until prom night. Fast forward seventeen years later, she is rising fast in the corporate ladder and she hates the sight of Ian.

Ian Walsh is a successful nightclub owner, recently divorced and vowed to never go back to the shackles of marriage. He lives next door to London and the only thing they have in common is their love for Sabrina (London’s best friend and Ian’s sister) and her family. Ian can’t stand London’s judgmental and snarky attitude and steers clear of her as much as he could.

One might think that London and Ian’s story is your stereotypical second chance romantic tale and in a way it is, some scenes are almost predictable but there is a twist to this one. Ian’s character as a teenager was a douche, he was more antagonist than protagonist and it’s only in the latter part of the book that he redeems himself. London’s bitter and disparaging attitude towards Ian I can understand, especially with what happened in the past although bearing a grudge for almost twenty years seems petty and I felt like telling her to move on already. Their dislike towards each other ends abruptly when something happens. What I also loved about this funny and touching romance are the secondary characters because they added more weight to the story and gave the couple some home truths and the necessary kick up their backsides.

“You were always so angry, but Dad used to say that when you’re mad at someone, it’s because you care so much you can’t explain it, so you become angry”. 

This collaboration ticks out all the boxes: romance, tragic event, children and dramatic showdown. However, even if you have all the necessary “ingredients” in plotting an epic love story, it is how these authors tell the tale and they did a fantastic job. Ian and London’s love and hate relationship gives you so many highs and some lows, one minute you think your heart is just coasting along and in the next, you’re bawling your eyes out. Angry, sad and gloriously happy you get all these in this book, I highly recommend it.

Sometimes you need a second chance because you weren't quite ready for the first, and that's definitely the case for Ian Chase and London Parish. Ian broke London's heart 18 years ago, but since his sister is her best friend, they're stuck in each other's life, bickering every chance they get and never really able to move on.

"Why is there still this spark between us? How is it possible to hate someone and still want his hands on you?"

Hands that were on their fair share of other women. Having Ian as her backdoor neighbor, London had a front row seat to his partying ways and the parade of women that helped warm his bed. But all they really were were place holders for the one woman he thought he could never have.

"London is the sun, the stars, the light at the end of the tunnel that I'm so desperate to reach, but know I'll never touch."

Sometimes in tragedy we find our purpose. Ian and London's purpose changes when they find themselves having to overcome an unimaginable loss for the sake of Ian's nieces and nephew. But just as they're finding their groove and getting comfortable with their new normal, it all just implodes again.

"Loving Ian was never really a choice, though. He's always been the guy for me. I just wish my heart knew he was the wrong one."

But, the heart knows what it wants, it just took Ian's brain a while longer to catch up with his heart. He gets there, eventually (with the help of his hilarious and sassy niece, Morgan), and oh, can Ian Chase make a girl weak in the knees.

"Without you, I'll be lonely and miserable for the rest of my life, hating myself for pushing you away, when all I really want to do is hold you close."

*SWOON*

This author collaboration is what this reader's dreams are made of! Melanie Harlow & Corrine Michaels are masters of their craft in their own rights, but together, they're just another level of phenomenal. I found myself having to put the book down because the feelings they invoked were too much, too real. The slow burn between these two characters was angsty, but oh, so sweet; you'll want to savor every single moment. ❤

This book completely sucked me in. I ended up reading it in one sitting. I couldn’t get enough of London and Ian’s story.

London was Ian’s little sisters best friend and we find out pretty quickly in the book why Ian had a sudden attitude change towards London leaving her not only heartbroken but feeling quite bitter too. Even though she’s had years to get over it, she’s holding on to her hate for him. Sometimes it’s easier to hate the person you love rather than accept your love for them and London’s definitely trying the I hate Ian approach. Ian’s no better to be honest. He knows what he did was for London’s best interests and he hasn’t really allowed himself to grieve for what he lost when he was a just teenager with good intentions and extremely poor execution. Like London he finds it easier to bitch and moan at his former love rather than clear the air and move on. When a tragedy hits close to home, both their lives are going to change and along with that so is their relationship. Both hurting and feeling out of their depths they’re still at each other’s throats but it’s not long before the realisation hits them that it’s not all about them. Vowing to put the past behind them and move forward is easier said than done and with everything changing they both have some things to come clean about and some life changing decisions to make.

This book was fantastic. I was in one of those moods where I really needed to escape into a book and this book did exactly what I was hoping it would. I shut the real world out and ended up reading this in a couple of hours. The characters aren’t perfect which makes it so easy to relate to them both. They have their faults but they are so very easy to love. The chemistry, the banter between them and the push and pull are all perfect. This book completely sucked me in. I ended up reading it in one sitting. I couldn’t get enough of London and Ian’s story.

The story gave me all the feels and this is definitely one book I’m going to be rereading. I can’t recommend this book enough especially if you’re like me and love a second chance romance.

Hold You Close is a second chance standalone romance by two incredible authors. Corinne Michaels and Melanie Harlow have been added to my list of fantastic duos! Separately these ladies bring the feels, but together it was absolute magic.
Ian and London have a past. One that didn't end well and has caused their relationship to be full of a lot of hate and animosity. Too bad they live across the backyard and she gets to watch his carefree lifestyle play out before her eyes. When tragedy strikes Ian and London have to learn to work together to raise his nieces and nephew. It's yelling, screaming and fighting from the get go. That line between hate and love is so fine that it quickly morphs into flirting, innuendo and a few hot as he** kisses. London never stopped loving Ian but it was easier to hate than admit her feelings. Ian never stopped loving London, but it's more fun to annoy her. Can these stop fighting long enough to get to the good stuff? Will they be honest with each other before they lose each other for good? I loved this story! The fighting was so fantastic. They both equally yelled and screamed and didn't hold back. It was the best form of foreplay I've ever read! I was cheering for London while raging mad at Ian. And then I was cheering for Ian and wanted to b slap London. Ian was perfection because he knew he was an a**! He knew everything he was doing and knew it was wrong but just couldn’t stop himself. London was a crazy b and let her emotions get the better of her, but she knew she was doing it. Even amongst the fighting and insult throwing, they were also sympathetic and caring. It was a crazy a** ride and I loved every word, every second, every fight, and every touch. Christopher, Morgan and Ruby were fantastic kids with awesome personalities. And they were very insightful! Overall, I laughed, cried, got hot and bothered, got mad, was on the edge of my seat and cheered!

4.5 Stars

Two amazing authors teaming up to write a enemies to lovers book, what a treat! And I enjoyed this one

London has been in love with her best friends brother forever, but it seems that Ian Chase just didn't see her that way. Until one party and everything changed, one kiss and she had everything she had ever dreamt about. Ian took her to prom and they spent the night together, declaring their love and making promises. Until the next night and then he broke her heart and she hated Ian Chase from that day.

Now years later, she is successful, he is divorced and running a club and living the manwhore bachelor life. Until a tragedy happens. Now she and Ian are responsible for 3 orphaned kids. How are they going to do this? They can't even be in the same room with each other before the killing one another.

Ian Chase has been in love with London Parish since he was a teenager. But then she wanted to throw her whole life away to stay with him and he couldn't let her do that. Couldn't let her change her life and throw away her dream of going to a prestigious university, so... he broke her heart. Now years later, it seems life is determined to repeat his past mistakes. Or will he have finally learned his lesson about making decisions on his own and not trusting the women he loves to make the right decision for them?

I really enjoyed this story, I loved that London didn't let Ian walk all over her, but I also liked that he didn't hold anything back. I loved the kids and how they fit into this story. The only thing i found a bit annoying was that they kept on talking around the issue that was holding them back from being together. But other than that, definitely a good second chance romance that will have you hooked from the beginning, screaming and LoL, and also maybe shedding a tear or two.

I so enjoyed this second-chance romance! It was a fabulous collaboration between Corinne Michaels and Melanie Harlow.

London has been in love with her best friend's brother, Ian, for as long as she can remember. And they shared one magical night together as teenagers before he decimated her heart. In the years since, London and Ian can barely stand to be in the same room with one another. She hates him for the way that he treated her that night, and he hates the way she's always such a witch around him. Except that Ian *has* to force himself to hate London because all he really wants to do is… hold her close.

When Ian's sister, Sabrina, and her husband unexpectedly die, he's left with custody of her three kids. And since Auntie London knows the three kids' schedules as well as Sabrina had, she's right there with him as a surrogate mother, despite the way she feels about their Uncle Ian. And when the close quarters force Ian and London to admit that they are still very much in love with one another, will old habits and selfish choices tear them apart once again?

I loved the barbs exchanged between the two. I loved all of the awkward situations that arose due to their proximity of being backyard neighbors. My heart broke for the kids and the circumstances that led to London and Ian being their guardians, but that all led to some wonderful moments between not only the MC but the new family unit as well.

And when Ian makes the second biggest mistake of his life… he goes big to win London back!

This book was marvelous all around, and I hope that there will be more to come from MH and CM together as a duo! I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

Man, I just LOVE an enemies to lovers romance! Add in that it’s a second-chance romance too, and I am hooked!

Ian and London have a not so pleasant history. According to London, Ian broke her heart at seventeen and she’s continued to hate him for the past eighteen years. Sure it was hard to hate him when London was best friends with his sister, but somehow she managed to hold that grudge. He made it easy with his playboy ways and careless regard for the women he brought to his bed.

Ian fell hard for London when he was younger—and broke her heart and moved on with his life. He’s seen her sporadically over the years at his sister’s house. They are godparents to her three children, so they’ve had to cross paths on occasion.

London and Ian have a love-hate relationship. She hates him, he loves to bait her. But Fate has a funny way of interrupting things . . . and a cruel way too.

Now London and Ian need to put their differences aside to raise the three children they love and help heal their hearts from the horrible tragedy that put them in their care. Can they do it for the kids and themselves? And maybe find that fine line between love and hate?

Gosh, I’m still trying to come to grips over this beautiful story. Hold You Close ran me through a whole range of emotions: love, hate, lust, sadness, fear, and hope. I loved the romance between Ian and London—once they finally started to put their animosity aside. I loved the interaction with the kids and how they helped show the way to the future for London and Ian. And good lord, the letters. The letters nearly broke me!

Corinne Michaels is one of my favorite authors, it's no surprise. I can say I haven't read anything by Melanie Harlow but after reading this book, I will definitely be checking out some of her works. Because this book is perfection. From the first page, I was hooked and my heart was in pain. I was counting down the days until this book was in my hands and I can say, it totally didn't disappoint.

Hold You Close follows the story of Ian and London. Ian is London's best friends big brother and she's been in love with him for as long as she could remember. But he thinks of her as his sisters pesky little friend. Though after one night, everything changes and it quickly goes from everything London has ever wanted, to her worst nightmare.

Now eighteen years later, they hate each other and all they do is bicker. They aren't friends and London despises him. But when tragedy strikes their family they are forced to work together and put their differences aside, and help raise their godchildren. Something they never thought they would be doing.

But it's hard to put their feelings aside and work, when they are so strong. But Ian knows he can never have her and shouldn't want her. This will test their limits and their boundaries beyond anything they would ever expect.

This book is beyond beautiful and packs a punch of feels. I could have continued reading this book for as long as they kept writing. It's the perfect story. Filled with love, loss, life, and pain. I highly recommend reading this book and grabbing a glass of wine...because trust me, you will need it.

Hold You Close is a first-time collaboration from Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels. I’ve loved both authors books induvially, so I was truly excited about them writing together. Needless to say, I was not at all disappointed!! HYC was an angsty, edgy, hard fought, second chance, enemies to lover’s romance that not only grabs your heart, pulling at your heartstrings too.

Growing up Ian’s sister, Sabrina, had been London's best friend. Through the years London had crushed on Ian and was totally in love with him. After a sweet, sexy night together with promises made this love came to a resounding halt. Ian would betray her the following night, as though the previous evening meant nothing to him. Heartbroken and hurt she pretty much just shuts Ian out.

Move forward 20 years. London is still single, yet still carries a torch for Ian but buries it deep inside. Vowing to never let a man do that to her again. She is a smart, driven and successful business woman who is focused on her job. The only problem she has is that Ian’s backyard joins hers. So, let’s just stay that she continues to be conflicted with her feelings about Ian. Still mad as hell but underneath it all she still has feelings for him, hence a love/hate relationship.

On the other hand, Ian is still the same arrogant, cocky guy she knew years ago. Only now he owns his own night club. His hours are spent sleeping late and working to the wee hours of the morning with his occasional tryst… sometimes flaunting it in front of London.

Then the unthinkable happens, both Ian and London are forced into a situation that they will need to bury the hatchet and work together. Both now find themselves taking care of their shared godchildren. This is were everything get a bit crazy. But can they put all their crazed feelings aside?

There will be tons of banter from these two. Sometimes you will just want to put them in a strait jacket, make them sit, look and listen to what they are saying and doing!! It really doesn’t take a shrink to see that underneath all that banter that there just might be something more for them! ~sigh

Some pretty amazing and seriously hot sex as well as fun times with the Godchildren! It’s these times you find yourself pulling for them! You will laugh at their antics but be prepared for a fairly emotional at times too. Will it be possible for these two to put their differences aside?

Loved Hold You Close!! The ups and downs of London and Ian will keep you on a rollercoaster of emotions!!

I can hardly wait for more from Melanie & Corinne!!