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Play On #2.5
Hold On
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Samantha Young…
Autumn O’Dea has always tried to see the best in people while her big brother, Killian, has always tried to protect her from the worst. While their lonely upbringing made Killian a cynic, it isn’t in Autumn’s nature to be anything but warm and open. However, after a series of relationship disasters and the unsettling realization that she’s drifting aimlessly through life, Autumn wonders if she’s left herself too vulnerable to the world. Deciding some distance from the security blanket of her brother and an unmotivated life in Glasgow is exactly what she needs to find herself, Autumn takes up her friend’s offer to stay at a ski resort in the snowy hills of Montana. Some guy-free alone time on Whitetail Mountain sounds just the thing to get to know herself better.
However, she wasn’t counting on colliding into sexy Grayson King on the slopes. Autumn has never met anyone like Gray. Confident, smart, with a wicked sense of humor, he makes the men she dated seem like boys. Her attraction to him immediately puts her on the defense because being open-hearted in the past has only gotten it broken. Yet it becomes increasingly difficult to resist a man who is not only determined to seduce her, but adamant about helping her find her purpose in life and embrace the person she is. Autumn knows she shouldn’t fall for Gray. It can only end badly. After all their lives are divided by an ocean and their inevitable separation is just another heart break away…
The Kristen Proby Crossover Collection features a new novel by Kristen Proby and six by some of her favorite writers:
Kristen Proby – Soaring with Fallon
Sawyer Bennett – Wicked Force
K.L. Grayson – Crazy Imperfect Love
Laura Kaye – Worth Fighting For
Monica Murphy – Nothing Without You
Rachel Van Dyken – All Stars Fall
Samantha Young – Hold On
Autumn O’Dea has always tried to see the best in people while her big brother, Killian, has always tried to protect her from the worst. While their lonely upbringing made Killian a cynic, it isn’t in Autumn’s nature to be anything but warm and open. However, after a series of relationship disasters and the unsettling realization that she’s drifting aimlessly through life, Autumn wonders if she’s left herself too vulnerable to the world. Deciding some distance from the security blanket of her brother and an unmotivated life in Glasgow is exactly what she needs to find herself, Autumn takes up her friend’s offer to stay at a ski resort in the snowy hills of Montana. Some guy-free alone time on Whitetail Mountain sounds just the thing to get to know herself better.
However, she wasn’t counting on colliding into sexy Grayson King on the slopes. Autumn has never met anyone like Gray. Confident, smart, with a wicked sense of humor, he makes the men she dated seem like boys. Her attraction to him immediately puts her on the defense because being open-hearted in the past has only gotten it broken. Yet it becomes increasingly difficult to resist a man who is not only determined to seduce her, but adamant about helping her find her purpose in life and embrace the person she is. Autumn knows she shouldn’t fall for Gray. It can only end badly. After all their lives are divided by an ocean and their inevitable separation is just another heart break away…
The Kristen Proby Crossover Collection features a new novel by Kristen Proby and six by some of her favorite writers:
Kristen Proby – Soaring with Fallon
Sawyer Bennett – Wicked Force
K.L. Grayson – Crazy Imperfect Love
Laura Kaye – Worth Fighting For
Monica Murphy – Nothing Without You
Rachel Van Dyken – All Stars Fall
Samantha Young – Hold On
109 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2019
About the author
Samantha Young
102 books26.8k followersSamantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 50 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
March 12, 2019
4 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Autumn O'Dea is a 25 yr. old woman from Scotland who is now independently wealthy, but growing up had to fight for all the things that truly mattered. She has an overprotective big brother named Killian who would do anything for her, but lately she feels restless. She's been through a tough time lately, and could use some space from her life in Glasgow, so when her friends invite her to tag along on their annual holiday to the snowy hills of Montana, she jumps at the chance to get away for a bit. Her life is a mess and she felt like she was floundering. She wanted some time to find herself, and figure out what she wants to do with her future. Some time alone with her thoughts is just what she needs to get herself together.
Autumn is more of a cuddle up with a good book type than the outdoorsy type, but she still decides to hit the slopes and give skiing a try. She soon realizes she should stick to the spa instead of skiing when she accidentally collides with a sexy, american ski instructor named Grayson King. She tries to ignore how gorgeous he is since this trip to Whitetail Mountain is to be some man-free alone time. A guy doesn't factor into her plans. She's not looking to get involved or have a fling, but she's stunned by the attraction between them. He gave her butterflies she wasn't aware a grown woman could still get. He's the most beautiful man she'd ever seen, and seems determined to seduce her as he relentlessly pursues her. She was an optimist who had been too open and trusting with her heart in the past. Known to often wear her heart on her sleeve, she believed the love of her life was out there somewhere, but this wasn't the time for her to be looking for her happily ever after. She was only there for ten days, and he lived an ocean away. She tried to see the best in people, but she would only be setting herself up for heart break to hope for more. The problem was love doesn't care about timing or distance when you find the one.
-He was gorgeous with an edge.
-Grayson King was unlike any man I’d ever been kissed by before and I knew even if I fought it, I’d only end up kissing him again. Deep down, in my secret heart of hearts, I knew I wanted him more than I wanted to be sensible.
-You’re the most beautiful fucking thing I’ve ever seen in my life.
-“I could listen to you talk in that sexy as fuck accent for the rest of my life.”
-“I took one look in those gorgeous brown eyes of yours and knew I’d do anything to get to know you.”
-“You feel it, I know you do. This is more than just amazing sexual attraction. There’s a connection here, angel.”
I really enjoyed this sweet, short novella. Hold On is a Play On/ Big Sky story that is part of the Kristen Proby Crossover Collection. It's a sexy insta-love romance in a beautiful setting. I adored Gray and love Samantha Young's story telling. She always creates the most dreamy, delicious men who make me swoon!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2VTnV5u
(ARC provided by author)
Autumn O'Dea is a 25 yr. old woman from Scotland who is now independently wealthy, but growing up had to fight for all the things that truly mattered. She has an overprotective big brother named Killian who would do anything for her, but lately she feels restless. She's been through a tough time lately, and could use some space from her life in Glasgow, so when her friends invite her to tag along on their annual holiday to the snowy hills of Montana, she jumps at the chance to get away for a bit. Her life is a mess and she felt like she was floundering. She wanted some time to find herself, and figure out what she wants to do with her future. Some time alone with her thoughts is just what she needs to get herself together.
Autumn is more of a cuddle up with a good book type than the outdoorsy type, but she still decides to hit the slopes and give skiing a try. She soon realizes she should stick to the spa instead of skiing when she accidentally collides with a sexy, american ski instructor named Grayson King. She tries to ignore how gorgeous he is since this trip to Whitetail Mountain is to be some man-free alone time. A guy doesn't factor into her plans. She's not looking to get involved or have a fling, but she's stunned by the attraction between them. He gave her butterflies she wasn't aware a grown woman could still get. He's the most beautiful man she'd ever seen, and seems determined to seduce her as he relentlessly pursues her. She was an optimist who had been too open and trusting with her heart in the past. Known to often wear her heart on her sleeve, she believed the love of her life was out there somewhere, but this wasn't the time for her to be looking for her happily ever after. She was only there for ten days, and he lived an ocean away. She tried to see the best in people, but she would only be setting herself up for heart break to hope for more. The problem was love doesn't care about timing or distance when you find the one.
-He was gorgeous with an edge.
-Grayson King was unlike any man I’d ever been kissed by before and I knew even if I fought it, I’d only end up kissing him again. Deep down, in my secret heart of hearts, I knew I wanted him more than I wanted to be sensible.
-You’re the most beautiful fucking thing I’ve ever seen in my life.
-“I could listen to you talk in that sexy as fuck accent for the rest of my life.”
-“I took one look in those gorgeous brown eyes of yours and knew I’d do anything to get to know you.”
-“You feel it, I know you do. This is more than just amazing sexual attraction. There’s a connection here, angel.”
I really enjoyed this sweet, short novella. Hold On is a Play On/ Big Sky story that is part of the Kristen Proby Crossover Collection. It's a sexy insta-love romance in a beautiful setting. I adored Gray and love Samantha Young's story telling. She always creates the most dreamy, delicious men who make me swoon!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2VTnV5u
May 16, 2020
3 Stars ✨
March 14, 2019
4.5 Stars
“I didn’t know,” I whispered. “I didn’t know it could be like this.”
This novella ticked all the right romantic and passionate boxes for us. We love Samantha Young and Hold On gave us all the emotions she’s known for, in this beautiful, sweet and sexy read. Despite the length and the insta love aspect, we enjoyed every minute and it felt like a complete standalone story.
“I think after everything you’ve been through, the fact that you still have the biggest, most open heart of anyone I know, makes you the bravest person I know. Christ, Autumn, it is so much easier to hide from love than it is to give in to it.”
Autumn is taking a break away from a life that’s not been easy. Childhood heartbreak and a history of bad choices in men. If it wasn’t for her brother, Killian she would’ve been completely alone and hurt in the world. Leaving her home in Glasgow she finds herself at a mountain resort in Montana, with her best friend and husband. Her plan is to, in a way, find herself again and what path she’d like to take in life. When she literally crashes into a tall handsome stranger on the kiddie ski slope, her path takes a surprising turn as it does for the man she crashed into, Grayson King. We fell in love with both Autumn and Gray, as we rooted for their romance and ‘forever after’ to take hold.
“I promise you there’s nothing to be scared of from me. This is the real fucking deal and I’m going to protect it with everything I have. Just say you’re with me.”
We fell in love with Samantha Young’s words, her wonderful characters, the scenery and the underlying message of to love hard and with abandon. The chemistry was intense and the passion hot as! The friendships and loyalties were beautiful and the emotion palpable. When a novella is as well written as this ensuring an instant character connection, you forget that it’s not a full length story and you end up with a smile on your face as you turn the last page despite wanting more!
“Tonight you’re mine, Grayson King.”
“I cannot fucking wait, angel.”
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
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July 18, 2020
4 ⭐'s
“I’m going to hold you forever, Autumn O’Dea.”
Hold On is a really sweet, really short novella featuring Autumn, Killian's sister from As Dust Dances.
I was really happy to get her story and really sad that it was so short.
I loved how her and Grayson met and how insistent he was. It was amazing how they tried to figure things out. I only wished there was more! I would have loved more Killian and Skylar as well.
Overall, I was happy with the story and enjoyed how they made things work.
“I’m going to hold you forever, Autumn O’Dea.”
Hold On is a really sweet, really short novella featuring Autumn, Killian's sister from As Dust Dances.
I was really happy to get her story and really sad that it was so short.
I loved how her and Grayson met and how insistent he was. It was amazing how they tried to figure things out. I only wished there was more! I would have loved more Killian and Skylar as well.
Overall, I was happy with the story and enjoyed how they made things work.
March 14, 2019
I know this is a novella, but the romance was way to insta-love for my like. I don't usually mind this type of romance, but even I have limits. One single night of getting to know each other and the next night she already loves him?! The next day they're already saying 'I love you'. ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME?! This sucks 'cause I liked Autumn in As Dust Dances, and I really wanted to like this novella.
Ugh! Now I want to reread As Dust Dances! As if I didn't have 1234567 books in my currently reading shelf.
October 2, 2019
This book started off with so much promise but it demised into instalove in the space of two days. From love to forever in that time frame too. Just nope. Good narration.
May 1, 2020
I listened to the audio version of this novella which has a link to As Dust Dances by Samantha Young and the Big Sky series for Kristen Proby. Set at a ski resort, things soon warm up between Autumn and Gray :)
March 4, 2019
“𝗜 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗺𝗲. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜’𝗺 𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲. 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗮𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗺𝗲."
𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐎𝐧 by Samantha Young put me in a state of absolute BLISS! Autumn and Grayson’s journey to a happily ever might have been short, sexy, and sweet, but it packed one hell of an emotional and beautiful punch! There were butterflies, people…butterflies roaming around my stomach the whole way through. I loved it! I loved the drama-free, heartwarming beauty and satisfaction of it all! If you haven’t experienced Samantha Young’s writing, this would be the perfect little taste of what you’ll be getting into with her wonderful romances. Grab it. Grab it now and NEVER look back!
𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗕 𝗜𝗧 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘:
Amazon → https://amzn.to/2C2Bc4d
Apple → https://apple.co/2Ja1AtQ
B&N → https://bit.ly/2HcomUC
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2EJlLQo
𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐎𝐧 by Samantha Young put me in a state of absolute BLISS! Autumn and Grayson’s journey to a happily ever might have been short, sexy, and sweet, but it packed one hell of an emotional and beautiful punch! There were butterflies, people…butterflies roaming around my stomach the whole way through. I loved it! I loved the drama-free, heartwarming beauty and satisfaction of it all! If you haven’t experienced Samantha Young’s writing, this would be the perfect little taste of what you’ll be getting into with her wonderful romances. Grab it. Grab it now and NEVER look back!
𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗕 𝗜𝗧 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘:
Amazon → https://amzn.to/2C2Bc4d
Apple → https://apple.co/2Ja1AtQ
B&N → https://bit.ly/2HcomUC
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2EJlLQo
May 16, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hold On was a sweet novella and whilst it wasn’t my favourite Samantha Young story, it was a very pleasant, if not far too short, read.
If you’ve read As Dust Dances and, like me, you adored Autumn, this one is a must - I’m thrilled she got her own HEA and it was great to catch up with Killian and Skylar.
https://raesxreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Hold On was a sweet novella and whilst it wasn’t my favourite Samantha Young story, it was a very pleasant, if not far too short, read.
If you’ve read As Dust Dances and, like me, you adored Autumn, this one is a must - I’m thrilled she got her own HEA and it was great to catch up with Killian and Skylar.
https://raesxreviews.blogspot.com/201...
March 13, 2019
4.5 Stars
“I didn’t know,” I whispered. “I didn’t know it could be like this.”
This novella ticked all the right romantic and passionate boxes for us. We love Samantha Young and Hold On gave us all the emotions she’s known for, in this beautiful, sweet and sexy read. Despite the length and the insta love aspect, we enjoyed every minute and it felt like a complete standalone story.
“I think after everything you’ve been through, the fact that you still have the biggest, most open heart of anyone I know, makes you the bravest person I know. Christ, Autumn, it is so much easier to hide from love than it is to give in to it.”
Autumn is taking a break away from a life that’s not been easy. Childhood heartbreak and a history of bad choices in men. If it wasn’t for her brother, Killian she would’ve been completely alone and hurt in the world. Leaving her home in Glasgow she finds herself at a mountain resort in Montana, with her best friend and husband. Her plan is to, in a way, find herself again and what path she’d like to take in life. When she literally crashes into a tall handsome stranger on the kiddie ski slope, her path takes a surprising turn as it does for the man she crashed into, Grayson King. We fell in love with both Autumn and Gray, as we rooted for their romance and ‘forever after’ to take hold.
“I promise you there’s nothing to be scared of from me. This is the real fucking deal and I’m going to protect it with everything I have. Just say you’re with me.”
We fell in love with Samantha Young’s words, her wonderful characters, the scenery and the underlying message of to love hard and with abandon. The chemistry was intense and the passion hot as! The friendships and loyalties were beautiful and the emotion palpable. When a novella is as well written as this ensuring an instant character connection, you forget that it’s not a full length story and you end up with a smile on your face as you turn the last page despite wanting more!
“Tonight you’re mine, Grayson King.”
“I cannot fucking wait, angel.”
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come visit and follow us at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
March 5, 2019
“We stumbled onto something special ... We would be fools to turn our backs on it when other folks aren’t so lucky.”
4 super romantic, swoony stars!
I loved this book!! It’s a quick read, but it’s a beautifully romantic, swoony love story that swept me off my feet with its sweetness and intensity. Grayson King is one helluva romantic hero, and I was lost in a world of swoon throughout this gorgeous little story – and with his sweeping declarations, I was highlighting madly, hence my quote-filled review.
This is a novella in the Kristen Proby crossover collection. It’s written by Sam Young and forms book #2.5 in her Play On series, but it’s set within Kristen’s Big Sky series. If you hadn’t read either series, you would be fine to read this one as a standalone, but I’m a big fan of the Play On series, so I loved catching up with Autumn – sister of Killian from As Dust Dances. And for Big Sky fans, Killian is the brother of Noah from Soaring with Fallon.
Autumn is feeling lost and unmotivated. She’s had terrible luck with men and has lost her job, and after a heartbreaking betrayal she decides that she needs some time away to figure herself out. So she heads off to a ski resort in Montana with some friends, determined to stay away from men and figure out what it is she wants from life.
Her plan to avoid men derails when she literally crashes into ski instructor Grayson King on the slopes, and when they later meet in the resort bar he does nothing to hide his attraction to her, declaring his intention to sweep her off her feet.
Gray is a man who knows what he wants, and he holds nothing back from Autumn as he begins pursuing her. His confidence is sexy without being arrogant, and I love how honest and determined he is.
Autumn is doing her best to stay true to her goals, but she’s helpless against Gray’s persistence, and her growing attraction to him. The chemistry between them sizzles, and I love how open and honest they are about everything that is building between them.
It’s intense and emotional, and yes, it’s hot, but the attraction between Autumn and Gray is more than sex, it’s a soul-deep connection that is just beautiful. And while they are happily exploring it all, Gray helps Autumn figure out her life and what she wants, as well as working through the issues that are holding her back from being all in with him. He is helpful, supportive, patient and gentle, opening his heart and sharing his feelings, while at the same time being a total alpha… he is basically the perfect man.
*dreamy sigh*
I loved watching them give themselves over to all that they are feeling and embrace their crazy connection, and I loved seeing them work through their issues and move forward. Yes, it’s fast moving, but it’s so freaking swoony that I didn’t care, I just got swept right up with them both and enjoyed the epic romance that unfolded.
This is such a lovely read. It’s a quick one, but still has lots of heart and had me completely invested in the story. I loved catching up with Killian and Skylar from As Dust Dances, and thought this was a fantastic addition to the Play On series, with a great connection to Big Sky
I loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4 super romantic, swoony stars!
I loved this book!! It’s a quick read, but it’s a beautifully romantic, swoony love story that swept me off my feet with its sweetness and intensity. Grayson King is one helluva romantic hero, and I was lost in a world of swoon throughout this gorgeous little story – and with his sweeping declarations, I was highlighting madly, hence my quote-filled review.
This is a novella in the Kristen Proby crossover collection. It’s written by Sam Young and forms book #2.5 in her Play On series, but it’s set within Kristen’s Big Sky series. If you hadn’t read either series, you would be fine to read this one as a standalone, but I’m a big fan of the Play On series, so I loved catching up with Autumn – sister of Killian from As Dust Dances. And for Big Sky fans, Killian is the brother of Noah from Soaring with Fallon.
Autumn is feeling lost and unmotivated. She’s had terrible luck with men and has lost her job, and after a heartbreaking betrayal she decides that she needs some time away to figure herself out. So she heads off to a ski resort in Montana with some friends, determined to stay away from men and figure out what it is she wants from life.
Her plan to avoid men derails when she literally crashes into ski instructor Grayson King on the slopes, and when they later meet in the resort bar he does nothing to hide his attraction to her, declaring his intention to sweep her off her feet.
“What’s your name, angel?”
I didn’t know why I gave it to him. I shouldn’t have. “Autumn.”
His lips parted as he studied my face and hair. Voice hoarse, he said, “Fuck, that’s perfect.”
“Woman, you’re the most beautiful fucking thing I’ve ever seen in my life. Take the drink of leave the drink, I’m not going anywhere until you say you’ll have dinner with me.”
Gray is a man who knows what he wants, and he holds nothing back from Autumn as he begins pursuing her. His confidence is sexy without being arrogant, and I love how honest and determined he is.
“This isn’t harassment. This is seeing something I want more than I’ve ever wanted anything and doing what I can to get it.”
Shocked, I replied breathily, “That’s insane. You don’t even know me.”
He shrugged and said seriously (very seriously), “I took one look in those gorgeous brown eyes of yours and knew I’d do anything to get to know you. I need to take you out to do that so… are you going to help me out here and say yes?”
Autumn is doing her best to stay true to her goals, but she’s helpless against Gray’s persistence, and her growing attraction to him. The chemistry between them sizzles, and I love how open and honest they are about everything that is building between them.
“I live on the other side of a pretty big ocean and that’s not a small problem. We should discuss what that means before we go any further.”
“No.”
“No?”
“No. I want it so our hooks are so deep in each other it doesn’t matter what problems we face, we’ll do whatever we can to overcome them together.”
“This is insane. We just met!”
“Yeah, we did. And yeah, it’s crazy.” He leaned across the table again, his voice pitched low and sexy. “But tell me you don’t feel like you’ve known me forever. Tell me it’s not just about sex. You feel it, I know you do. This is more than just amazing sexual attraction. There’s a connection here, angel.”
It’s intense and emotional, and yes, it’s hot, but the attraction between Autumn and Gray is more than sex, it’s a soul-deep connection that is just beautiful. And while they are happily exploring it all, Gray helps Autumn figure out her life and what she wants, as well as working through the issues that are holding her back from being all in with him. He is helpful, supportive, patient and gentle, opening his heart and sharing his feelings, while at the same time being a total alpha… he is basically the perfect man.
“I’m scared.”
“Don’t be. I promise you there’s nothing to be scared of from me. This is the real fucking deal and I’m going to protect it with everything I have. Just say you’re with me … Give yourself over to this with me and I honestly believe it will all work itself out. Will you do that? Will you just hold on with me?”
I stared into his face, a face that felt so strangely familiar to me now. My fears rode me but I knew as the warmth and excitement and thrill and peace exploded through me in opposing harmony that he was going to win over my fears.
I nodded, my hands tightening in his. “I’ll hold on.”
*dreamy sigh*
I loved watching them give themselves over to all that they are feeling and embrace their crazy connection, and I loved seeing them work through their issues and move forward. Yes, it’s fast moving, but it’s so freaking swoony that I didn’t care, I just got swept right up with them both and enjoyed the epic romance that unfolded.
“I’m going to hold you forever, Autumn O’Dea.”
This is such a lovely read. It’s a quick one, but still has lots of heart and had me completely invested in the story. I loved catching up with Killian and Skylar from As Dust Dances, and thought this was a fantastic addition to the Play On series, with a great connection to Big Sky
I loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
August 17, 2018Killian and his sister = Braden and his sister. Am I the only one here, or are their relationships very similarly portrayed?
Want to read
February 8, 2019❤️❤️❤️
March 15, 2019
This was a cute story but not my fave short story of Samantha's. Still a cute read. I always enjoy her books and look forward to the next one. The hero reminded me a bit of Braden, minus the Scottish accent.
My Rambling Things I Thought:
❋ The way they meet is hilarious
❋ You know a guy really likes you when he still wants to date you after you knee him in the balls (on accident)
♥ Those blue eyes held me utterly captive as he replied, “Woman, you’re the most beautiful fucking thing I’ve ever seen in my life. Take the drink or leave the drink, I’m not going anywhere until you say you’ll have dinner with me.”
My Rambling Things I Thought:
❋ The way they meet is hilarious
❋ You know a guy really likes you when he still wants to date you after you knee him in the balls (on accident)
♥ Those blue eyes held me utterly captive as he replied, “Woman, you’re the most beautiful fucking thing I’ve ever seen in my life. Take the drink or leave the drink, I’m not going anywhere until you say you’ll have dinner with me.”
March 10, 2019
Hold On (Play On, #2.5; Big Sky, #4.6) by Samantha Young
Hold On puts emotions to the test. From a bond between siblings to a romance in the works, Young takes on love at it's most challenging and ends up Inspiring. Autumn is learning about herself. An optimist in a world of cynicism, she needs a bit of distance to follow her heart. That distance leads her into the arms of Grayson. Her heart tells her, he could be the man of her dreams, her mind has a different opinion. Can she get out of her head long enough to allow her heart to decide?
Hold On puts emotions to the test. From a bond between siblings to a romance in the works, Young takes on love at it's most challenging and ends up Inspiring. Autumn is learning about herself. An optimist in a world of cynicism, she needs a bit of distance to follow her heart. That distance leads her into the arms of Grayson. Her heart tells her, he could be the man of her dreams, her mind has a different opinion. Can she get out of her head long enough to allow her heart to decide?
July 27, 2021
Süss für Zwischendurch.
Ein Fall von instalove. Nach 2 Tagen kam schon die Liebeserklärung und davon bin ich kein Fan.
Mochte die Protas so ganz gern, aber man hat Gray nicht so gut kennengelernt oder über ihn so viel erfahren wie über Autumn.
Wer auf Liebe auf den ersten Blick steht wird hier auf seine Kosten kommen. Mir persönlich hat die Entwicklung gefehlt.
Ein Fall von instalove. Nach 2 Tagen kam schon die Liebeserklärung und davon bin ich kein Fan.
Mochte die Protas so ganz gern, aber man hat Gray nicht so gut kennengelernt oder über ihn so viel erfahren wie über Autumn.
Wer auf Liebe auf den ersten Blick steht wird hier auf seine Kosten kommen. Mir persönlich hat die Entwicklung gefehlt.
March 14, 2019
Too insta Insta-Love
Waaaay too quick to be believable or romantic. I believe in love at first sight but this was more like two drop dead gorgeous people falling in deep lust without really testing their relationship skills.
Waaaay too quick to be believable or romantic. I believe in love at first sight but this was more like two drop dead gorgeous people falling in deep lust without really testing their relationship skills.
March 12, 2019
Even though, I’ll admit, I’m not usually a romance reader who enjoys love at first sight story lines, the way that Samantha Young develops Autumn O’Dea and Grayson King’s instant attraction into a kismet-like connection, exploring what it is about each other that they can’t seem to and don’t want to let slip away, I was completely sold on their desire and need for one another, and let me tell you, the more time these two spend together, the easier it is to understand that even though they’ve only known each other for a few days, they’ve both found their ‘one’ and they’ll fight like hell to hold onto it regardless of the obstacles that must be faced, especially a certain older brother and the fact that they live so far away from each other.
I absolutely loved Autumn’s character. I’m a wear her heart on her sleeve kind of girl just like Autumn is, so I completely understood her need to escape her life in Glasgow, seeking refuge where no one knows who she is…where she can take a bit of time to figure out what she wants for herself and then develop a plan for the rest of her life - one that both fulfills her and allows her to give back. It’s clear that Autumn revels in other people’s happiness and like Gray calls her, Autumn is quite angelic in her kindness, in her love of life, and in the way she always tries to see the best in every single person she meets.
There is not a single doubt in my mind that if Grayson King asked me to hold onto him for the rest of my life, I would gladly hold on as tightly as I could because holy crap can that man romance. At first, his declarations seemed like the typical lines guys use to get something they want, but as the story continued and Gray’s way with words led to movements that more than proved his feelings for Autumn, I knew he was the real deal and that Autumn was one heck of a lucky lady!
The amount of butterflies and feelings Samantha Young packs into this novella is quite the feat, especially given the fact that the hero and the heroine are total strangers until she literally skis into him.
I adore both Kristen Proby’s and Samantha Young’s worlds, so the fact that they’re brought together is the best of both worlds for me:)
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
I absolutely loved Autumn’s character. I’m a wear her heart on her sleeve kind of girl just like Autumn is, so I completely understood her need to escape her life in Glasgow, seeking refuge where no one knows who she is…where she can take a bit of time to figure out what she wants for herself and then develop a plan for the rest of her life - one that both fulfills her and allows her to give back. It’s clear that Autumn revels in other people’s happiness and like Gray calls her, Autumn is quite angelic in her kindness, in her love of life, and in the way she always tries to see the best in every single person she meets.
There is not a single doubt in my mind that if Grayson King asked me to hold onto him for the rest of my life, I would gladly hold on as tightly as I could because holy crap can that man romance. At first, his declarations seemed like the typical lines guys use to get something they want, but as the story continued and Gray’s way with words led to movements that more than proved his feelings for Autumn, I knew he was the real deal and that Autumn was one heck of a lucky lady!
The amount of butterflies and feelings Samantha Young packs into this novella is quite the feat, especially given the fact that the hero and the heroine are total strangers until she literally skis into him.
I adore both Kristen Proby’s and Samantha Young’s worlds, so the fact that they’re brought together is the best of both worlds for me:)
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
March 13, 2019
So disappointed. Way too much repetition, the book seemed thrown together. It had so much potential. I love Autumn but I don’t think this book did her justice. She deserved a longer more in depth story.
March 19, 2019
I feel bad for the low review, but there is really no point to this book. There are some authors who can adjust their writing and get a whole story in a novella and that is not what happened here. Most of the book was either in Autumn's head over dramatizing things or insta love between the two leads. Nothing much really happens at all, there is no plot, no ups and downs. Just not enough story for my liking. The only part I did enjoy was seeing Killian and Skylar again.
Definitely not worth the $2.99. Could have almost been a free website story.
Definitely not worth the $2.99. Could have almost been a free website story.
March 7, 2019
After reading Play On by Samantha Young, I was thrilled to learn that Autumn O’Dea would be getting her own story. The fact that it would be a crossover with Kristen Proby’s Big Sky Series and the hero would be Grayson King? *Insert fangirling here* These are two of my all-time favorite authors so getting a Samantha Young book set in a world I already know and love, featuring characters created by Kristen Proby, is definitely cause for excitement. I previously thought that Kristen Proby would be the one to give readers Gray’s story, though I must say that he was in good hands with Samantha Young.
Having fled to Montana on a journey of self-discovery, Autumn doesn’t expect to literally crash into a stranger who would make her question her self-imposed hiatus from men. But, as any Big Sky Series fan knows, the King men are a potent, irresistible force to be reckoned with, especially when they’ve set their sights on who and what they want. Confused, wary, and intent on protecting herself from additional heartbreak, Autumn resists the incorrigibly flirtatious, smooth-talking charmer, but Gray wears her down with an easygoing confidence and a single-minded determination. With Gray and Autumn’s instant connection and palpable chemistry, it’s not long before their fun, flirty banter turns into an all-consuming, whirlwind romance that’s steamy, swoon-worthy, and packed with sexual tension.
With a lighthearted, playful storyline and a dreamy romance that had me grinning from ear to ear and blushing like a schoolgirl, Hold On is my new favorite Samantha Young book. As always with any great book, it felt too short…and not just because it was a novella. I could’ve easily read double the page length and it still wouldn’t have been enough. If you’re a Samantha Young fan, if you love the Big Sky Series, and/or if you’re in the mood for a hopelessly romantic, heartfelt love story, you NEED to add Hold On to your TBR list.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
Rating: 5 Stars
Having fled to Montana on a journey of self-discovery, Autumn doesn’t expect to literally crash into a stranger who would make her question her self-imposed hiatus from men. But, as any Big Sky Series fan knows, the King men are a potent, irresistible force to be reckoned with, especially when they’ve set their sights on who and what they want. Confused, wary, and intent on protecting herself from additional heartbreak, Autumn resists the incorrigibly flirtatious, smooth-talking charmer, but Gray wears her down with an easygoing confidence and a single-minded determination. With Gray and Autumn’s instant connection and palpable chemistry, it’s not long before their fun, flirty banter turns into an all-consuming, whirlwind romance that’s steamy, swoon-worthy, and packed with sexual tension.
With a lighthearted, playful storyline and a dreamy romance that had me grinning from ear to ear and blushing like a schoolgirl, Hold On is my new favorite Samantha Young book. As always with any great book, it felt too short…and not just because it was a novella. I could’ve easily read double the page length and it still wouldn’t have been enough. If you’re a Samantha Young fan, if you love the Big Sky Series, and/or if you’re in the mood for a hopelessly romantic, heartfelt love story, you NEED to add Hold On to your TBR list.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
Rating: 5 Stars
March 15, 2019
Meh
Ok so I RARELY give 2 stars but I’m struggling here not to give 1. I feel like because this was a crossover novel is why it felt so NOT like Young’s other books. And I have read most of them. Basically I don’t get why these people were together. His ridiculous way he spoke, there was NOTHING interesting about these two. Ugh. And I really like her other books. I know I know it’s romance. But you can still have a killer story with romance thrown in. There was none of that here. I was actually surprised when I was done. My feeling was “that’s it??” Very disappointing.
Ok so I RARELY give 2 stars but I’m struggling here not to give 1. I feel like because this was a crossover novel is why it felt so NOT like Young’s other books. And I have read most of them. Basically I don’t get why these people were together. His ridiculous way he spoke, there was NOTHING interesting about these two. Ugh. And I really like her other books. I know I know it’s romance. But you can still have a killer story with romance thrown in. There was none of that here. I was actually surprised when I was done. My feeling was “that’s it??” Very disappointing.
February 26, 2019
"You believe in 'the one'?"
Gray swallowed, almost as if he was nervous.
"I do now."
I am a HUGE fan of Sam's Play On series. The books are heart wrenchingly beautiful and I can't get enough, so I was so excited to see that Autumn was going to get her own little tale.
I'm usually not a big fan of stand alone novellas, because I never feel completely satisfied. I always end up feeling short changed because I didn't get the full story. Well that is definitely NOT the case with Autumn and Gray's story.
These two were SMOULDERING! I loved their instant connection and how exhilarating and scary it was to find love out of no where.
"This is insane. We just met!"
"Yeah, we did. And yeah, it's crazy."
He leaned across the table again, his voice pitched low and sexy.
"But tell me you don't feel like you've known me forever. Tell me it's not just about sex. You feel it, I know you do."
Gray King had his sights set on Autumn O'Dea from the moment he set eyes on her. I loved his brutal honesty and how steadfast he was on his pursuit to claim what he knew was his other half.
We stumbled onto something special, Autumn. We would be fools to turn our backs on it when other folks aren't so luck."
I love this world. I love these characters. I can't wait for Sam to break my heart again!.(We have a weird relationship.) I just can't get enough. So I'll just have to Hold On for the next.
Yet here we were with our soul mates and luckier than most people ever got to be. All because we decided to hold on. And hold on tight.
Gray swallowed, almost as if he was nervous.
"I do now."
I am a HUGE fan of Sam's Play On series. The books are heart wrenchingly beautiful and I can't get enough, so I was so excited to see that Autumn was going to get her own little tale.
I'm usually not a big fan of stand alone novellas, because I never feel completely satisfied. I always end up feeling short changed because I didn't get the full story. Well that is definitely NOT the case with Autumn and Gray's story.
These two were SMOULDERING! I loved their instant connection and how exhilarating and scary it was to find love out of no where.
"This is insane. We just met!"
"Yeah, we did. And yeah, it's crazy."
He leaned across the table again, his voice pitched low and sexy.
"But tell me you don't feel like you've known me forever. Tell me it's not just about sex. You feel it, I know you do."
Gray King had his sights set on Autumn O'Dea from the moment he set eyes on her. I loved his brutal honesty and how steadfast he was on his pursuit to claim what he knew was his other half.
We stumbled onto something special, Autumn. We would be fools to turn our backs on it when other folks aren't so luck."
I love this world. I love these characters. I can't wait for Sam to break my heart again!.(We have a weird relationship.) I just can't get enough. So I'll just have to Hold On for the next.
Yet here we were with our soul mates and luckier than most people ever got to be. All because we decided to hold on. And hold on tight.
March 13, 2019
Maybe 3.5 stars. This was a very sweet, very short story. I loved Autumn and Gray. It was harder for Autumn to give in to love having been through what we know she dealt with from her part in As Dust Dances. Gray was all about getting her to give him a chance though. And he went after her full speed. Which makes sense, Autumn was only in the area on a holiday. I liked how Gray was able to help her figure out what she really wanted to do now that she'd gotten away from Scotland and her brother. But I also understand her hesitancy to move so far away from her brother, her only real family. So it was easy to see just why she held out as she did.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
August 25, 2021
I just love this so much ( even though I usually don't enjoy anything about insta-love trope ) but this one is an exception .
March 10, 2019
In "Hold On", Samantha Young crossed off almost everything in my "what makes a romance great" checklist. A sweet, beautiful, compassionate and real heroine. An arrogant, confident , protective, sexy and rugged alpha mountain man. The fairy tale like snowy setting of Cunningham Falls with all the small town charm of big hearted friends. A beautiful and heartwarming tale of taking chances and never letting go. And I was all in!
Autumn is visiting the mountains of Cunningham Falls from Scotland with her friend. She needs a break from life and some time to figure out what she wants to do next. She has not imagined in her wildest dreams that she will knock off a big hulk of a guy on his feet literally in skiing slope and it will start an adventurous whirlwind romance. Grayson King is very persistent and charming which is dangerous when mixed with his edgy personality. But Autumn isn't ready for a relationship due to various reason. One is the long list of hopeless men who used her for her brother Killian, the hot shot super rich record label ex. And second is the fact that they live an ocean apart. But Grayson is determined to break her walls down and make her feel special.
I am so in lust with Gray. First, this name suits him like a glove. He has the perfect mix of bad boy goodness with extremely sweet attractive personality. His dirty mouth did a lot of things to me. What I loved most was his determined and strong mindset about Autumn. This beautiful kind girl was treated badly by life. Beginning from a lonely childhood to recent string if loser lovers. Killian is the only good thing in her life. And Gray makes her feel so pampered, protected and happy. She deserved it. They had some ups and downs due to Autumn's insecurity but Gray gave her the strength to "Hold On".
I loved everything about the story. The passion, the love, the chemistry - everything was expressed beautifully! Samantha Young made me feel everything. And I still have the dreamy and swoony feeling inside!
Received ARC for honest review.
Autumn is visiting the mountains of Cunningham Falls from Scotland with her friend. She needs a break from life and some time to figure out what she wants to do next. She has not imagined in her wildest dreams that she will knock off a big hulk of a guy on his feet literally in skiing slope and it will start an adventurous whirlwind romance. Grayson King is very persistent and charming which is dangerous when mixed with his edgy personality. But Autumn isn't ready for a relationship due to various reason. One is the long list of hopeless men who used her for her brother Killian, the hot shot super rich record label ex. And second is the fact that they live an ocean apart. But Grayson is determined to break her walls down and make her feel special.
I am so in lust with Gray. First, this name suits him like a glove. He has the perfect mix of bad boy goodness with extremely sweet attractive personality. His dirty mouth did a lot of things to me. What I loved most was his determined and strong mindset about Autumn. This beautiful kind girl was treated badly by life. Beginning from a lonely childhood to recent string if loser lovers. Killian is the only good thing in her life. And Gray makes her feel so pampered, protected and happy. She deserved it. They had some ups and downs due to Autumn's insecurity but Gray gave her the strength to "Hold On".
I loved everything about the story. The passion, the love, the chemistry - everything was expressed beautifully! Samantha Young made me feel everything. And I still have the dreamy and swoony feeling inside!
Received ARC for honest review.
March 14, 2019
Kristen Proby's Crossver collection has been just a joy to read! Obviously I'm constantly begging for more with these novellas, but Samantha did a wonderful job with this cozy and sexy read.
Once Autumn pommels into Grayson King on the slopes, it was darn right near impossible to love this swoony and ever romantic hero that Samantha has written. Autumn needed a break from everyone and figure herself out. And off to Montana she went to find all of that, but I'm sure she didn't expect to run into (literally) the man who could possibly give her that new start.
CHECK OUT THE REST OF MY REVIEW : HERE
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March 15, 2019
3.5 stars!
Review to come
** ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. **
This novella was a condensed of sweetness and hotness.
Autumn was far from imagined that she would find anything coming to another country. She just wanted to find herself, after a few disastrous relationship that would have ended badly, all she needed was a place in the mountains when she would find some quiet and peace. Until she met Gray on the slopes but let just say that they didn’t get along firsthand.
The author explores instant attraction between two people who lived across the world from each other, with an embarrassing meet cute. I’ve been a little taken aback by the hero’s straightforwardness towards the heroine. Especially in a novella. But it kinda work for me at some point.
It was definitely getting hot in here and it took one determined and very obstinate man to win her over. But would Grayson be strong enough to make her believe that they were the perfect fit.
The only little glitch to me was how the heroine was described throughout the story, mostly about her physique than her personality. I wanted for that woman who were looking for something more, to let people see beneath her beauty, that she was something more than a pretty face. We had it of course but it wasn’t enough. It was still enjoyable but just a little rushed sometimes to me.
Review to come
** ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. **
This novella was a condensed of sweetness and hotness.
Autumn was far from imagined that she would find anything coming to another country. She just wanted to find herself, after a few disastrous relationship that would have ended badly, all she needed was a place in the mountains when she would find some quiet and peace. Until she met Gray on the slopes but let just say that they didn’t get along firsthand.
The author explores instant attraction between two people who lived across the world from each other, with an embarrassing meet cute. I’ve been a little taken aback by the hero’s straightforwardness towards the heroine. Especially in a novella. But it kinda work for me at some point.
It was definitely getting hot in here and it took one determined and very obstinate man to win her over. But would Grayson be strong enough to make her believe that they were the perfect fit.
The only little glitch to me was how the heroine was described throughout the story, mostly about her physique than her personality. I wanted for that woman who were looking for something more, to let people see beneath her beauty, that she was something more than a pretty face. We had it of course but it wasn’t enough. It was still enjoyable but just a little rushed sometimes to me.
April 1, 2019
So damn good!! This Kristen Proby Crossover Series is just perfect! This is my first Samantha Young book and I’m now planning on reading the rest of the books in the Play On Series too!
If you love Samantha Young and her Play On series, read this! There are some sweet scenes with Killian and Skylar and it makes me so excited to read their book.
If you are, like me, a true Kristen Proby fan you’ve got to read this one!! We all love the King Men and all things Cunningham Falls, and you get all of that goodness in this one.
New fan alert!!
If you love Samantha Young and her Play On series, read this! There are some sweet scenes with Killian and Skylar and it makes me so excited to read their book.
If you are, like me, a true Kristen Proby fan you’ve got to read this one!! We all love the King Men and all things Cunningham Falls, and you get all of that goodness in this one.
New fan alert!!
March 2, 2019
4.25 stars!
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