What do you think?
Rate this book
Hard to Play #1
Hard to Hold
“Katie Rose writes sexy, skilled sports heroes who know how to treat a woman right!” raves Wendy S. Marcus. Now the award-winning author of the Bad Boys of Baseball series introduces a team of soccer stars who score on and off the pitch.
New Jersey Hurricanes striker Logan Hart lives for the grind of training, the adrenaline of competition, and all the perks of the road—until his ex hands him a baby and tells Logan to raise her on his own. He’s eager to pass this bundle of joy into more capable hands and get back to his hard-playing, hard-partying ways. But when a beautiful, blond drill sergeant of a nanny turns Logan’s life upside down, he sets a new goal: winning her heart.
Isabella Bennett takes pride in teaching the rich and famous how to become loving families. Her no-nonsense style is just what Logan and his crying, copper-haired cutie need. So why can’t she get the image of Logan’s tanned, muscular body out of her head? Isabella’s here to whip a new father into shape, not fall for a sexy ladies’ man. But their chemistry is too tantalizing to ignore, much like the temptation to trust someone with her deepest secrets—and embrace a loving family all her own.
New Jersey Hurricanes striker Logan Hart lives for the grind of training, the adrenaline of competition, and all the perks of the road—until his ex hands him a baby and tells Logan to raise her on his own. He’s eager to pass this bundle of joy into more capable hands and get back to his hard-playing, hard-partying ways. But when a beautiful, blond drill sergeant of a nanny turns Logan’s life upside down, he sets a new goal: winning her heart.
Isabella Bennett takes pride in teaching the rich and famous how to become loving families. Her no-nonsense style is just what Logan and his crying, copper-haired cutie need. So why can’t she get the image of Logan’s tanned, muscular body out of her head? Isabella’s here to whip a new father into shape, not fall for a sexy ladies’ man. But their chemistry is too tantalizing to ignore, much like the temptation to trust someone with her deepest secrets—and embrace a loving family all her own.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 13, 2016
39 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Katie Rose
20 books144 followersAward-winning historical author Katie Rose makes her contemporary debut with the Boys of Summer novels, Bring on the Heat and Too Hot to Handle, which combine Katie’s true loves: baseball and romance! When not watching baseball, Katie is at her lake house in New Jersey, hard at work on her next book.
**She is the bestselling author of twelve historical romance novels published under the names Colleen Quinn and Katie Rose .**
**She is the bestselling author of twelve historical romance novels published under the names Colleen Quinn and Katie Rose .**
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
May 25, 2016
I liked that Logan has a level head. Yes, he freaked out a little when he was left with a kid that he supposedly fathered with a one night stand, but even in that state, he did the right thing. I liked how the romance developed between him and Isabella, his new nanny. The baby girl put Logan in a situation where he had to settle down and having Isabella around, with their attraction, felt natural. With that though, comes the chance that he fell for her out of convenience. She's there. She's caring for his baby. I've got to admit a bit of doubt in that they would have otherwise gotten together but it's still a cute story. I enjoyed seeing him fall for his daughter most of all. Bella was a no nonsense heroine that didn't let him take shortcuts. That helped build and strengthen his bond with the munchkin. I liked Bella's sassy. :) Definitely my kind of girl. All in all a good read that written with well thought out characters. Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing, though the H very briefly considered starting something with OW he met at the gym after h pushed him away. No rape/abuse. They use condoms. There is resistance to each other.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2016
Light, sweet and endearing
Logan Hart has lived and breathed soccer for as long as he can remember loving everything that comes with it including the attention from the ladies that constantly surround him. What he never would have expected and certainly didn’t want was little bundle of joy wrapped up in pink diapers to be left on his lap by one of his dalliances. DNA match or not, Logan is aware of the fact that if he didn’t step up the ginger haired cutie would most likely end up in foster care, Logan hires the best nanny money could buy. Will he give them up after the two inch their way into his heart?
Isabella Bennett adores taking care of children and enjoys teaching their rich parents how to become good at it. But when it comes to the sexy soccer player and his little girl it’s hard for her to concentrate on anything other than the incredible chemistry between them. As Logan grows accustomed to fatherhood his affection and care for the baby tips the scale and Isabella gives into him, but can she trust him with her secret and let him into her life?
I really can’t blame Bella for falling for Logan, I don’t think anyone can resist an alpha male taking care of a baby. Not only was Logan sexy and successful, he has a wonderful heart I just adored the way he embraced his daughter.
Isabella was a strong straight shooter, she didn’t mess around and didn’t give Logan an inch. Even though she assumed too much too soon and sometimes exasperated me which hindered my ability to fully connect with their relationship, but together they did make me laugh and fan myself.
Logan’s family was also a wonderful layer and I liked the slight crossover with The Boys of Summer, a wonderful baseball series by Katie.
Hard to Hold is book #1 in the Hard to Play series by Katie Rose. It is a sweet and light standalone contemporary soccer romance told from both point of view with a happy ending.
3.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Logan Hart has lived and breathed soccer for as long as he can remember loving everything that comes with it including the attention from the ladies that constantly surround him. What he never would have expected and certainly didn’t want was little bundle of joy wrapped up in pink diapers to be left on his lap by one of his dalliances. DNA match or not, Logan is aware of the fact that if he didn’t step up the ginger haired cutie would most likely end up in foster care, Logan hires the best nanny money could buy. Will he give them up after the two inch their way into his heart?
Isabella Bennett adores taking care of children and enjoys teaching their rich parents how to become good at it. But when it comes to the sexy soccer player and his little girl it’s hard for her to concentrate on anything other than the incredible chemistry between them. As Logan grows accustomed to fatherhood his affection and care for the baby tips the scale and Isabella gives into him, but can she trust him with her secret and let him into her life?
I really can’t blame Bella for falling for Logan, I don’t think anyone can resist an alpha male taking care of a baby. Not only was Logan sexy and successful, he has a wonderful heart I just adored the way he embraced his daughter.
“Logan was done. For the first time in his life, he understood the term ‘unconditional love.’ Swallowing hard, he held the baby, feeling as if she had always belonged there, in his embrace.”
Isabella was a strong straight shooter, she didn’t mess around and didn’t give Logan an inch. Even though she assumed too much too soon and sometimes exasperated me which hindered my ability to fully connect with their relationship, but together they did make me laugh and fan myself.
Logan’s family was also a wonderful layer and I liked the slight crossover with The Boys of Summer, a wonderful baseball series by Katie.
Hard to Hold is book #1 in the Hard to Play series by Katie Rose. It is a sweet and light standalone contemporary soccer romance told from both point of view with a happy ending.
3.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
September 13, 2016
Men with babies… Is there anything sexier, more swoonworthy than a man making goofy faces at a baby? Providing for her? Falling in love with her?
I think not.
Especially after watching Logan Hart fall for not just one girl—the baby daughter his ex-hook up left him with unexpectedly—but two. It was a study in adorable and addicting romance, with a ton of smiles and heart-melting moments just waiting to be had. While it took maybe a little longer for a connection to form with these characters than I might have liked, or expected, by the time Logan and Isabella were all in, I was, too.
Logan was a dream. A soccer star (and that’s a delicious visual all on its own), he also proved to have a good heart, and that is what makes a man a man for me. Sure, he was occasionally a dumb-ass, but then again…isn’t that also what makes a man, a man?! (I kid…kinda.)
I’ve been a fan of Katie Rose’s baseball books, and that’s what prompted me to get my hands on Hard to Hold—the sexy single father thing notwithstanding. I didn’t quite clue in that Logan was peripherally related to the Boy of Summer series until I was well into the book—it’s definitely a standalone title, but those baseball books are awesome. Get them, now!—and all that revelation did was make me all the happier. It was fun to see some minor crossover between the two series, and I hope that we see more of that as this series continues. Because I will definitely be back for more of this series…
Especially if I get to see more men with beautiful babies. *swoons* ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
I think not.
Especially after watching Logan Hart fall for not just one girl—the baby daughter his ex-hook up left him with unexpectedly—but two. It was a study in adorable and addicting romance, with a ton of smiles and heart-melting moments just waiting to be had. While it took maybe a little longer for a connection to form with these characters than I might have liked, or expected, by the time Logan and Isabella were all in, I was, too.
Logan was a dream. A soccer star (and that’s a delicious visual all on its own), he also proved to have a good heart, and that is what makes a man a man for me. Sure, he was occasionally a dumb-ass, but then again…isn’t that also what makes a man, a man?! (I kid…kinda.)
I’ve been a fan of Katie Rose’s baseball books, and that’s what prompted me to get my hands on Hard to Hold—the sexy single father thing notwithstanding. I didn’t quite clue in that Logan was peripherally related to the Boy of Summer series until I was well into the book—it’s definitely a standalone title, but those baseball books are awesome. Get them, now!—and all that revelation did was make me all the happier. It was fun to see some minor crossover between the two series, and I hope that we see more of that as this series continues. Because I will definitely be back for more of this series…
Especially if I get to see more men with beautiful babies. *swoons* ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
September 13, 2016
4 stars
Hard to Hold was a sweet and heartwarming read.
From the first meeting between Logan and Isabella I knew I was going to enjoy watching these two connect and fall in love.
They made me laugh, at times they frustrated me and at other times they made me swoon.
These two were perfect for each other, then add Logan's cute baby girl and I was in a very happy place.
Logan connecting with his little girl Cinnamon, melted my heart. With the help/guidance from Isabella he turned from a clueless man into a loving and doting father.
Hard to Hold is the first book in the new series Hard to Play by Katie Rose and I highly recommend it.
Looking forward to the next book :)
*Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Netgalley for the advance copy*
Hard to Hold was a sweet and heartwarming read.
From the first meeting between Logan and Isabella I knew I was going to enjoy watching these two connect and fall in love.
They made me laugh, at times they frustrated me and at other times they made me swoon.
These two were perfect for each other, then add Logan's cute baby girl and I was in a very happy place.
Logan connecting with his little girl Cinnamon, melted my heart. With the help/guidance from Isabella he turned from a clueless man into a loving and doting father.
Hard to Hold is the first book in the new series Hard to Play by Katie Rose and I highly recommend it.
Looking forward to the next book :)
*Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Netgalley for the advance copy*
July 11, 2016
I wrote out a review for this book but apparently my laptop looked like a puppy toy and now it is a really pretty paperweight :(
So I will just say that I loved this book. It was sweet and hot and you really should pre order it now while I go off and stalk Katie Rose.
Check out my reviews here
So I will just say that I loved this book. It was sweet and hot and you really should pre order it now while I go off and stalk Katie Rose.
Check out my reviews here
September 15, 2016
Link to full review below! Sweet and enjoyable overall but also predictable and a little slow.See full review on The Book Disciple
October 22, 2016
https://romanticcynicblog.wordpress.c...
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Isabella): age unknown
Hero (Logan): 27yrs old
Plot: 3/5
Grovel: h should have grovelled more
Cheating: none
HEA: yes but no further babies
Triggers: H was sexually assaulted once as a child/teen
Average score: 3/5
Best Line: “Fuck that spoonful of sugar shit.”
Worst Line: “I deserted him.”
Personal Review:
This was an ok romance between a single father and a nanny. The H grew on me but the h lost me when she abandoned them both.
Random Ramblings
•I never really liked the name Logan for a hero but I don’t know why
•I am ONLY reading this because I am in the mood for some babies
•I loved that he was protective of Cinnamon immediately
•It was weird he called his little sister ‘baby girl’
•It surprised me to know he had brothers – that shows how little his family was actually involved in the story which was disappointing
•I was annoyed with the h for walking out like a coward
•Not sure how I feel not knowing whether the H was really the biological father or not
Overall Feeling:
I lost trust in the h at the end
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Isabella): age unknown
Hero (Logan): 27yrs old
Plot: 3/5
Grovel: h should have grovelled more
Cheating: none
HEA: yes but no further babies
Triggers: H was sexually assaulted once as a child/teen
Average score: 3/5
Best Line: “Fuck that spoonful of sugar shit.”
Worst Line: “I deserted him.”
Personal Review:
This was an ok romance between a single father and a nanny. The H grew on me but the h lost me when she abandoned them both.
Random Ramblings
•I never really liked the name Logan for a hero but I don’t know why
•I am ONLY reading this because I am in the mood for some babies
•I loved that he was protective of Cinnamon immediately
•It was weird he called his little sister ‘baby girl’
•It surprised me to know he had brothers – that shows how little his family was actually involved in the story which was disappointing
•I was annoyed with the h for walking out like a coward
•Not sure how I feel not knowing whether the H was really the biological father or not
Overall Feeling:
I lost trust in the h at the end
February 7, 2017
2.5
To be honest I didn't really had a clue what it was about when I started this book today. So I was pretty surprised when I found a MSL star with an illegitimate baby being dropped on him and hiring a nanny.
I really enjoyed the setting as I haven't read much similar. Unfortunately the story couldn't live up to my expectations.
Everything felt very rushed, the story as well as the relationship between the characters and the development of the characters. I hadly felt any chemistry between Logan and Isabella which decreased my enjoyment with the book as well.
There were some cute moments but overall the story couldn't emotionally touch me. It had me entertained for a few others but that's it.
To be honest I didn't really had a clue what it was about when I started this book today. So I was pretty surprised when I found a MSL star with an illegitimate baby being dropped on him and hiring a nanny.
I really enjoyed the setting as I haven't read much similar. Unfortunately the story couldn't live up to my expectations.
Everything felt very rushed, the story as well as the relationship between the characters and the development of the characters. I hadly felt any chemistry between Logan and Isabella which decreased my enjoyment with the book as well.
There were some cute moments but overall the story couldn't emotionally touch me. It had me entertained for a few others but that's it.
September 23, 2016
Originally posted at Smexybooks-http://smexybooks.com/2016/09/review-...
New Jersey Hurricanes striker Logan Hart is an international soccer star who plays hard on and off the field. Gorgeous, rich, and single, he has the perfect life.That is until a former one night stand hands him a baby, claiming it’s his, and disappears. Logan doesn’t know the child is really his or not and has no idea how to care for her. His sister puts a call into a nanny service. Logan’s all for handing off this new responsibility to more capable hands so he can get back to his single ways but when the sexy, blond, take no prisoners nanny shows up and informs him she is the nanny, not the parent, and his participation is non-negotiable, Logan finds himself looking for more than just a new notch on his bedpost…he wants to win her heart.
Isabella Bennett takes pride in her career as a professional nanny. Using her skills, she not only cares for the children of the rich and famous but also helps to teach the parents how to become a family. Logan and his child desperately need Isabella but their mutual attraction could create some problems. Isabella is there to whip Logan into shape, not fall into his bed. As the chemistry between them only continues to bloom, Isabella finds herself hoping that this is the real thing. But a secret Isabella is keeping may be the one thing that stops her from finally getting her happily ever after.
Hard to Hold is the first in a new sports based romance contemporary series by Katie Rose.An appealing premise and cover piqued my interest right away. I enjoy sport based romances and I’m always looking for more secret/surprise baby tropes that don’t follow the norm. Rose sets the stage right off the bat with a bold scene and narrative. Our hero, Logan Hart, is home from Europe and having a drink with a teammate. A young woman interrupts Logan’s night out, handing him a baby and informing him he is the baby’s father and she’s done. Logan is shocked and tries to chase after her but she drives off before he can stop her. Logan heads home, calls his sister, and proceeds to freak out. And rightly so. His sister helps him out by putting him in touch with a professional nanny service send over a nanny who instantly sets to right the chaos that has descended, winning his admiration, trust, and eventually his heart.
This lightweight predictable story hits all the basic notes for a romance but doesn’t develop beyond a singular level. This surprised me because I read and reviewed The Heat is On, #4 in her Bad Boys of Summer series, and enjoyed it. I found the overall romance and storyline much better developed and balanced in comparison to this one.
An antagonistic employee/employer relationship develops and trips along with a wee bit of angst, humor, and some push and pull in the romance. Logan sees a beautiful woman he’d like to get to know better but has no ambition towards making it something more permanent while Isabella sees a gorgeous abet arrogant man who needs to to be taken down a notch. They dance around each other as Logan learns how to be a parent while dealing with the team, the gossip, and locating the baby’s mom.
The chemistry is plausible and helped along by some steamy scenes but the connection is weak. Isabella seems determined to keep Logan firmly in “player” category though there is no evidence of this besides second hand gossip. I was also not happy with her presumptions about his having one night stands and obviously not using a condom. Logan struggles with crossing the line between them, knowing he needs her more for his child then his bed. When they decide to go forward, he stops them at a critical point and she ends up taking it personally. They don’t really seem to get to know one another on a personal level, and I never saw the moment it went from attraction to affection for either of them.
The best part of the book for me was watching Logan grow into parenthood. He doesn’t instantly take to the baby and there was a sense of realism there. The confusion and fear were evident and Logan learns to deal with it while growing to love his child. There was a small storyline concerning Logan that didn’t seem to offer much in ways advancement in the book or his character. Logan suffers under the care of a host family while in Europe as a teenager and resents his parents didn’t believe his claims. Interesting but there is no resolution and it disappears as quietly as it enters. A minor conflict concerning Isabella’s secret is the catalyst that pushes Isabella to trust Logan and we are left with the HEA we never doubted was coming.
Hard to Hold is sure to appeal to fans who enjoy predictably sweet and lightweight romance contemporaries with a hint of spice that doesn’t push any real boundaries or demand much emotionally.
Grade: C
New Jersey Hurricanes striker Logan Hart is an international soccer star who plays hard on and off the field. Gorgeous, rich, and single, he has the perfect life.That is until a former one night stand hands him a baby, claiming it’s his, and disappears. Logan doesn’t know the child is really his or not and has no idea how to care for her. His sister puts a call into a nanny service. Logan’s all for handing off this new responsibility to more capable hands so he can get back to his single ways but when the sexy, blond, take no prisoners nanny shows up and informs him she is the nanny, not the parent, and his participation is non-negotiable, Logan finds himself looking for more than just a new notch on his bedpost…he wants to win her heart.
Isabella Bennett takes pride in her career as a professional nanny. Using her skills, she not only cares for the children of the rich and famous but also helps to teach the parents how to become a family. Logan and his child desperately need Isabella but their mutual attraction could create some problems. Isabella is there to whip Logan into shape, not fall into his bed. As the chemistry between them only continues to bloom, Isabella finds herself hoping that this is the real thing. But a secret Isabella is keeping may be the one thing that stops her from finally getting her happily ever after.
Hard to Hold is the first in a new sports based romance contemporary series by Katie Rose.An appealing premise and cover piqued my interest right away. I enjoy sport based romances and I’m always looking for more secret/surprise baby tropes that don’t follow the norm. Rose sets the stage right off the bat with a bold scene and narrative. Our hero, Logan Hart, is home from Europe and having a drink with a teammate. A young woman interrupts Logan’s night out, handing him a baby and informing him he is the baby’s father and she’s done. Logan is shocked and tries to chase after her but she drives off before he can stop her. Logan heads home, calls his sister, and proceeds to freak out. And rightly so. His sister helps him out by putting him in touch with a professional nanny service send over a nanny who instantly sets to right the chaos that has descended, winning his admiration, trust, and eventually his heart.
This lightweight predictable story hits all the basic notes for a romance but doesn’t develop beyond a singular level. This surprised me because I read and reviewed The Heat is On, #4 in her Bad Boys of Summer series, and enjoyed it. I found the overall romance and storyline much better developed and balanced in comparison to this one.
An antagonistic employee/employer relationship develops and trips along with a wee bit of angst, humor, and some push and pull in the romance. Logan sees a beautiful woman he’d like to get to know better but has no ambition towards making it something more permanent while Isabella sees a gorgeous abet arrogant man who needs to to be taken down a notch. They dance around each other as Logan learns how to be a parent while dealing with the team, the gossip, and locating the baby’s mom.
The chemistry is plausible and helped along by some steamy scenes but the connection is weak. Isabella seems determined to keep Logan firmly in “player” category though there is no evidence of this besides second hand gossip. I was also not happy with her presumptions about his having one night stands and obviously not using a condom. Logan struggles with crossing the line between them, knowing he needs her more for his child then his bed. When they decide to go forward, he stops them at a critical point and she ends up taking it personally. They don’t really seem to get to know one another on a personal level, and I never saw the moment it went from attraction to affection for either of them.
The best part of the book for me was watching Logan grow into parenthood. He doesn’t instantly take to the baby and there was a sense of realism there. The confusion and fear were evident and Logan learns to deal with it while growing to love his child. There was a small storyline concerning Logan that didn’t seem to offer much in ways advancement in the book or his character. Logan suffers under the care of a host family while in Europe as a teenager and resents his parents didn’t believe his claims. Interesting but there is no resolution and it disappears as quietly as it enters. A minor conflict concerning Isabella’s secret is the catalyst that pushes Isabella to trust Logan and we are left with the HEA we never doubted was coming.
Hard to Hold is sure to appeal to fans who enjoy predictably sweet and lightweight romance contemporaries with a hint of spice that doesn’t push any real boundaries or demand much emotionally.
Grade: C
September 12, 2016
Sexy sports hero in need of rescue gets an unexpected gem from a modern day Mary Poppins (aka. Nanny with attitude) in this delightfully sweet romance.
Logan Hart, professional athlete, has life by the horns until an ex-fling drops off a baby at his door step and walks away. Unsure what to do he calls a nanny service to take control of this unexpected addition to his perfect life. Little did he know that this nanny specializing in teaching the rich and famous to become loving parents…even if she has to drag.
Isabella knows she’s got her work cut out for he with the Hart family but she sees beyond the shocked father to the man below who will do what is right. She never mixes business with pleasure but the chemistry between her and Logan is sizzling off the charts.
This is a heartwarming tale of love, life and the unexpected treasures that you might find when you least expect it, a contemporary sports romance gem. Taking place in NJ was icing on the cake.
I received this ARC copy of Hard to Hold from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication September 13, 2016.
My Rating: 4 stars
Written by: Katie Rose
Print Length: 227 pages
Publisher: Loveswept
Publication Date: September 13, 2016
Sold by: Random House LLC
Genre: Contemporary Sports Romance
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/hard...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Hold-Play...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hard-...
Reviewed for:
Logan Hart, professional athlete, has life by the horns until an ex-fling drops off a baby at his door step and walks away. Unsure what to do he calls a nanny service to take control of this unexpected addition to his perfect life. Little did he know that this nanny specializing in teaching the rich and famous to become loving parents…even if she has to drag.
Isabella knows she’s got her work cut out for he with the Hart family but she sees beyond the shocked father to the man below who will do what is right. She never mixes business with pleasure but the chemistry between her and Logan is sizzling off the charts.
This is a heartwarming tale of love, life and the unexpected treasures that you might find when you least expect it, a contemporary sports romance gem. Taking place in NJ was icing on the cake.
I received this ARC copy of Hard to Hold from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication September 13, 2016.
My Rating: 4 stars
Written by: Katie Rose
Print Length: 227 pages
Publisher: Loveswept
Publication Date: September 13, 2016
Sold by: Random House LLC
Genre: Contemporary Sports Romance
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/hard...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Hold-Play...
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hard-...
Reviewed for:
July 24, 2016
Recommended weekend read
Loved Logan and Bella. An engaging story told in third person yet with the conversation it felt like dual pov's
When Logan a star football player finds himself left with a baby who is literally dumped on him from the mother who was a one night stand, this previous playboy now single parent has to call in resources, so in comes the nanny from an agency otherwise known as Isabella (Bella)
A steady paced story,predictable but enjoyable, I wanted to know how it was all going to play out and I did enjoy the plot.
No angst or drama, a steady plot and an ideal weekend read to relax with and appreciate the characters, finishing with a hea.
Would I read more from this author? Yes it was an enjoyable contemporary romance read.
Arc gratefully received for review: BBBf-sizzlereads-bestbookboyfriends
http://www.BBBf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
Loved Logan and Bella. An engaging story told in third person yet with the conversation it felt like dual pov's
When Logan a star football player finds himself left with a baby who is literally dumped on him from the mother who was a one night stand, this previous playboy now single parent has to call in resources, so in comes the nanny from an agency otherwise known as Isabella (Bella)
A steady paced story,predictable but enjoyable, I wanted to know how it was all going to play out and I did enjoy the plot.
No angst or drama, a steady plot and an ideal weekend read to relax with and appreciate the characters, finishing with a hea.
Would I read more from this author? Yes it was an enjoyable contemporary romance read.
Arc gratefully received for review: BBBf-sizzlereads-bestbookboyfriends
http://www.BBBf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
September 13, 2016
3.5 Stars!
Single fatherhood is thrust upon professional soccer star Logan Hart with a 3 month old baby. The mother claims the child is his and she can no longer take care of her, leaving the baby with him and walking away. Isabella is a certifies nanny called in to help Logan while he sorts the situation out. He's sure there's a mistake and the baby isn't his, yet he refuses to pawn her off on social services.
While this was a good story line and likeable characters, I struggled a bit connecting with this story. It may seem minor but the reaction to Isabella taking the baby to one of Logan's games was unrealistic to me as well as the reaction from the coach. What I did like was how the author ended the story.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Single fatherhood is thrust upon professional soccer star Logan Hart with a 3 month old baby. The mother claims the child is his and she can no longer take care of her, leaving the baby with him and walking away. Isabella is a certifies nanny called in to help Logan while he sorts the situation out. He's sure there's a mistake and the baby isn't his, yet he refuses to pawn her off on social services.
While this was a good story line and likeable characters, I struggled a bit connecting with this story. It may seem minor but the reaction to Isabella taking the baby to one of Logan's games was unrealistic to me as well as the reaction from the coach. What I did like was how the author ended the story.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2017
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Hard to Hold is a sweet contemporary romance in the spin-off to The Boys of Summer series, with solid characters and a good plot.
Contemporary romances that include sports heroes are among my favorites, and Hard to Hold is well done, with complex characters that I wanted to spend even more time with! The romance was swoony, and Logan was toe-curling! I can't imagine what Logan went through - out with some friends for a few beers, a woman he'd spent one night with a year before dumped a three-month old baby in his lap and told him he was the father and it was his turn to take care of Cinnamon... At least, women have 9 months to get used to becoming a parent, no such luck for Logan.
Because Logan wasn't home all that much - being a professional soccer-player kept him on the road more often than not - he knew he needed help in a big way to take care of the baby until he could find her mother again and persuade her to take the baby back... In came Isabella, nanny extraordinaire, and totally immune to hunky athletes. At least that's what she kept telling herself. Hard to Hold dealt with some gender problems turned upside-down, and I enjoyed seeing Logan getting used to caring for Cinnamon, having to learn to get to know her, and how to deal with crying, diapers and the middle-of-the night feedings, even if Isabella did take care of most of that when she was working.
Between becoming a father at no notice and still working hard to be a good soccer-player Logan definitely had his work cut out for him in Hard to Hold. He still had time to fall really hard for Isabella, though, and while she was a bit reluctant, she also really wanted true love, a family and everything that comes with that. As Hard to Hold is a spin-off, there were some side characters I had already met, and I was very happy to spend a little time with them as well. Rose has managed to create another sports team I can't wait to get to know better, and I look forward to the next instalment.
Written in third person point of view, past tense, we get parts both from Logan's and Isabella's perspective. There are also dialogues throughout, which makes getting to know the characters very easy.
To go from that to becoming a single parent of a little girl was a huge leap. She wondered if he would be able to make it.
All she was certain of were her own feelings for Logan, which were growing by the day. She knew she should pull back, protect her heart, but she couldn't stop anything at this point.
Hard to Hold is a sweet contemporary romance in the spin-off to The Boys of Summer series, with solid characters and a good plot.
Contemporary romances that include sports heroes are among my favorites, and Hard to Hold is well done, with complex characters that I wanted to spend even more time with! The romance was swoony, and Logan was toe-curling! I can't imagine what Logan went through - out with some friends for a few beers, a woman he'd spent one night with a year before dumped a three-month old baby in his lap and told him he was the father and it was his turn to take care of Cinnamon... At least, women have 9 months to get used to becoming a parent, no such luck for Logan.
Because Logan wasn't home all that much - being a professional soccer-player kept him on the road more often than not - he knew he needed help in a big way to take care of the baby until he could find her mother again and persuade her to take the baby back... In came Isabella, nanny extraordinaire, and totally immune to hunky athletes. At least that's what she kept telling herself. Hard to Hold dealt with some gender problems turned upside-down, and I enjoyed seeing Logan getting used to caring for Cinnamon, having to learn to get to know her, and how to deal with crying, diapers and the middle-of-the night feedings, even if Isabella did take care of most of that when she was working.
Between becoming a father at no notice and still working hard to be a good soccer-player Logan definitely had his work cut out for him in Hard to Hold. He still had time to fall really hard for Isabella, though, and while she was a bit reluctant, she also really wanted true love, a family and everything that comes with that. As Hard to Hold is a spin-off, there were some side characters I had already met, and I was very happy to spend a little time with them as well. Rose has managed to create another sports team I can't wait to get to know better, and I look forward to the next instalment.
Written in third person point of view, past tense, we get parts both from Logan's and Isabella's perspective. There are also dialogues throughout, which makes getting to know the characters very easy.
To go from that to becoming a single parent of a little girl was a huge leap. She wondered if he would be able to make it.
All she was certain of were her own feelings for Logan, which were growing by the day. She knew she should pull back, protect her heart, but she couldn't stop anything at this point.
cant-read-triggers
October 22, 2016NOT FOR ME
This book has a sexual assault in the past that I can't deal with.
Giving it a skip.
This book has a sexual assault in the past that I can't deal with.
Giving it a skip.
September 17, 2016
3.75 stars--
About the book: Release Date September 13, 2016
New Jersey Hurricanes striker Logan Hart lives for the grind of training, the adrenaline of competition, and all the perks of the road—until his ex hands him a baby and tells Logan to raise her on his own. He’s eager to pass this bundle of joy into more capable hands and get back to his hard-playing, hard-partying ways. But when a beautiful, blond drill sergeant of a nanny turns Logan’s life upside down, he sets a new goal: winning her heart.
Isabella Bennett takes pride in teaching the rich and famous how to become loving families. Her no-nonsense style is just what Logan and his crying, copper-haired cutie need. So why can’t she get the image of Logan’s tanned, muscular body out of her head? Isabella’s here to whip a new father into shape, not fall for a sexy ladies’ man. But their chemistry is too tantalizing to ignore, much like the temptation to trust someone with her deepest secrets—and embrace a loving family all her own.
•••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---HARD TO HOLD is the first installment in Katie Rose’s contemporary, adult HARD TO PLAY sport, romance series focusing on the New Jersey Hurricanes professional soccer team. This is strike Logan Hart, and nanny Isabella Bennett. Hard to Play is a spin off from Rose’s Boys of Summer series. You do not have to read the original series to enjoy Hard to Hold.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Logan and Isabella) HARD TO HOLD follows the building relationship between professional soccer player Logan Hart, and his new nanny Isabella Bennett. Days prior to their first meeting Logan comes to face to face with a woman he met one year before- a one-night stand- and the woman hands Logan a three month old child claiming our hero is the dad. As a professional sports player who is on the road more than he is at home, Logan struggles with what to do next and calls his sister Jessica Hart (Boys of Summer #3) for advice. Enter professional nanny Isabella Bennett, and the woman who calls to Logan’s heart. What ensues is the ‘forbidden’ relationship between the nanny and her boss, and Logan’s attempts to locate the mother of his child who all but disappeared within minutes of depositing off her child.
Isabella is a take charge woman; a no-nonsense nanny with a bit of an attitude about work-place romances but a woman with a secret that could break Logan’s heart. Realizing Logan is ill-prepared for a child, our heroine ensures that the child is her first priority, and begins to teach Logan what it is he needs to know about raising a child. Logan is a sexy sports star whose return to America finds him struggling with his new team and their lack of drive and need to win.
The attraction between Isabella and Logan is immediate. The sexual tension is high, and the anxiety about crossing the invisible line runs tight throughout the story. Isabella is fearful of destroying her reputation by having an affair with Logan but Logan is a man determined to win the heart of both Isabella and the young child. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive. The drama was limited to our heroine’s secrets, and Logan’s search for the truth.
We are introduced to several of Logan’s teammates and coaches, as well as Logan’s extended family and friends including his brothers Coulter and Rory; Isabella’s friends Patty, and Anna McCarthy-a pediatrician. Jessica and Gavin (Boys of Summer #3) cross over for familiarity and cohesion between the two series.
The world building follows Logan’s search for the truth and his struggle as a single father whose career is not conducive to raising a child alone; the romance between our leading couple; and the players and coaches for the New Jersey Hurricanes. I did have a small issue with one particular aspect of the story that was not quite believable and appeared to come out of left field when our heroine took the baby to one of Logan’s games-the ensuing reactions from coaches and management was hard to fathom.
HARD TO HOLD is a sweet but predictable romance; a story about two people brought together by the innocence of a small child caught up in a world where big people play. The premise is enjoyable; the characters are colorful and entertaining; the romance is intimate and provocative. HARD TO HOLD is a great start to a new series by Katie Rose.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
About the book: Release Date September 13, 2016
New Jersey Hurricanes striker Logan Hart lives for the grind of training, the adrenaline of competition, and all the perks of the road—until his ex hands him a baby and tells Logan to raise her on his own. He’s eager to pass this bundle of joy into more capable hands and get back to his hard-playing, hard-partying ways. But when a beautiful, blond drill sergeant of a nanny turns Logan’s life upside down, he sets a new goal: winning her heart.
Isabella Bennett takes pride in teaching the rich and famous how to become loving families. Her no-nonsense style is just what Logan and his crying, copper-haired cutie need. So why can’t she get the image of Logan’s tanned, muscular body out of her head? Isabella’s here to whip a new father into shape, not fall for a sexy ladies’ man. But their chemistry is too tantalizing to ignore, much like the temptation to trust someone with her deepest secrets—and embrace a loving family all her own.
•••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---HARD TO HOLD is the first installment in Katie Rose’s contemporary, adult HARD TO PLAY sport, romance series focusing on the New Jersey Hurricanes professional soccer team. This is strike Logan Hart, and nanny Isabella Bennett. Hard to Play is a spin off from Rose’s Boys of Summer series. You do not have to read the original series to enjoy Hard to Hold.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Logan and Isabella) HARD TO HOLD follows the building relationship between professional soccer player Logan Hart, and his new nanny Isabella Bennett. Days prior to their first meeting Logan comes to face to face with a woman he met one year before- a one-night stand- and the woman hands Logan a three month old child claiming our hero is the dad. As a professional sports player who is on the road more than he is at home, Logan struggles with what to do next and calls his sister Jessica Hart (Boys of Summer #3) for advice. Enter professional nanny Isabella Bennett, and the woman who calls to Logan’s heart. What ensues is the ‘forbidden’ relationship between the nanny and her boss, and Logan’s attempts to locate the mother of his child who all but disappeared within minutes of depositing off her child.
Isabella is a take charge woman; a no-nonsense nanny with a bit of an attitude about work-place romances but a woman with a secret that could break Logan’s heart. Realizing Logan is ill-prepared for a child, our heroine ensures that the child is her first priority, and begins to teach Logan what it is he needs to know about raising a child. Logan is a sexy sports star whose return to America finds him struggling with his new team and their lack of drive and need to win.
The attraction between Isabella and Logan is immediate. The sexual tension is high, and the anxiety about crossing the invisible line runs tight throughout the story. Isabella is fearful of destroying her reputation by having an affair with Logan but Logan is a man determined to win the heart of both Isabella and the young child. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive. The drama was limited to our heroine’s secrets, and Logan’s search for the truth.
We are introduced to several of Logan’s teammates and coaches, as well as Logan’s extended family and friends including his brothers Coulter and Rory; Isabella’s friends Patty, and Anna McCarthy-a pediatrician. Jessica and Gavin (Boys of Summer #3) cross over for familiarity and cohesion between the two series.
The world building follows Logan’s search for the truth and his struggle as a single father whose career is not conducive to raising a child alone; the romance between our leading couple; and the players and coaches for the New Jersey Hurricanes. I did have a small issue with one particular aspect of the story that was not quite believable and appeared to come out of left field when our heroine took the baby to one of Logan’s games-the ensuing reactions from coaches and management was hard to fathom.
HARD TO HOLD is a sweet but predictable romance; a story about two people brought together by the innocence of a small child caught up in a world where big people play. The premise is enjoyable; the characters are colorful and entertaining; the romance is intimate and provocative. HARD TO HOLD is a great start to a new series by Katie Rose.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 1, 2017
Fantastic book! Katie Rose has written a great start to her new series with HARD TO HOLD. I loved this one and am eagerly looking forward to more of her Hard to Play series! Logan Hart, a professional soccer player for the New Jersey Hurricanes shines as the typical professional athlete enjoying the good life. He's not a total player, but has no thoughts of settling down. And then an one night stand from his past shows up with baby Cinnamon declaring him not only the father, but the immediate custodial parent. In an instant his life is completely changed. Deep down he's a good guy that steps right up to care for this innocent baby even when he doesn't believe she's really his. Of course he needs help since he's on the road all the time, so he hires a nanny. Isabella is the vanguard of professional, certified Nanny's and she's also stunningly beautiful. She turns up her nose a bit at first to Logan, not expecting much from the gorgeous professional athlete, but then his sincere concern for the well-being of his infant daughter begins to win her over.
This story touched a lot of emotions. I mean, I couldn't help but be a bit riled over just the thought of how any mother could so callously abandon her child. Or happy to see the Love and respect develop between Logan and Isabella... and for baby Cinnamon. Or amused when Logan was trying to handle the baby on his own. And then there were the steamy scenes, because when your irresistibly attracted to someone you're in such close quarters with its next to impossible to not give in to the temptation. And the scenes that were so sweet I had tears running down my cheeks. But what impressed me most was Logan. Ms. Rose does a spectacular job of portraying his transition from "She's not my daughter. I don't have time for this."... that guy... to "She's mine. I'll do whatever it takes to protect her." Essentially his daughter steals his heart and he does an about face. Combined with the lovely romance this is a great read! 4.5 stars
~Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This story touched a lot of emotions. I mean, I couldn't help but be a bit riled over just the thought of how any mother could so callously abandon her child. Or happy to see the Love and respect develop between Logan and Isabella... and for baby Cinnamon. Or amused when Logan was trying to handle the baby on his own. And then there were the steamy scenes, because when your irresistibly attracted to someone you're in such close quarters with its next to impossible to not give in to the temptation. And the scenes that were so sweet I had tears running down my cheeks. But what impressed me most was Logan. Ms. Rose does a spectacular job of portraying his transition from "She's not my daughter. I don't have time for this."... that guy... to "She's mine. I'll do whatever it takes to protect her." Essentially his daughter steals his heart and he does an about face. Combined with the lovely romance this is a great read! 4.5 stars
~Complimentary copy downloaded from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 19, 2016
New Jersey Hurricanes striker Logan Hart lives for the grind of training, the adrenaline of competition, and all the perks of the road—until his ex hands him a baby and tells Logan to raise her on his own. He’s eager to pass this bundle of joy into more capable hands and get back to his hard-playing, hard-partying ways. But when a beautiful, blond drill sergeant of a nanny turns Logan’s life upside down, he sets a new goal: winning her heart.
Isabella Bennett takes pride in teaching the rich and famous how to become loving families. Her no-nonsense style is just what Logan and his crying, copper-haired cutie need. So why can’t she get the image of Logan’s tanned, muscular body out of her head? Isabella’s here to whip a new father into shape, not fall for a sexy ladies’ man. But their chemistry is too tantalizing to ignore, much like the temptation to trust someone with her deepest secrets—and embrace a loving family all her own.
Review:
Logan, he is wonderful. The man gets a daughter he didn't know he had left on his table while sitting in a bar. What does he do? He figures it out. I think he handles the whole situation with grace. He is a good dad which should melt any readers heart.
The whole story is filled with heart. From getting his daughter Cinnamon, to finding his soul mate, Isabella. I have not read this Author before, but I will totally read more by her. I loved this well-written and was engaged with Logan and his new reality from page one. It is sexy and smart. This is the first in this new series so there is no getting confused or lost. I am not sure where the series will go next, there is a whole team and a lot of siblings t make stories for.
4Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Isabella Bennett takes pride in teaching the rich and famous how to become loving families. Her no-nonsense style is just what Logan and his crying, copper-haired cutie need. So why can’t she get the image of Logan’s tanned, muscular body out of her head? Isabella’s here to whip a new father into shape, not fall for a sexy ladies’ man. But their chemistry is too tantalizing to ignore, much like the temptation to trust someone with her deepest secrets—and embrace a loving family all her own.
Review:
Logan, he is wonderful. The man gets a daughter he didn't know he had left on his table while sitting in a bar. What does he do? He figures it out. I think he handles the whole situation with grace. He is a good dad which should melt any readers heart.
The whole story is filled with heart. From getting his daughter Cinnamon, to finding his soul mate, Isabella. I have not read this Author before, but I will totally read more by her. I loved this well-written and was engaged with Logan and his new reality from page one. It is sexy and smart. This is the first in this new series so there is no getting confused or lost. I am not sure where the series will go next, there is a whole team and a lot of siblings t make stories for.
4Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Want to read
May 12, 2016****ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review****
September 10, 2016
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
I read the enitre Boys of Summer series about the New Jersey Sonics so when I heard that Katie Rose had a new series about a soccer team I had to have it. Hard to Hold is the first instalment in the new Hard to Play series.
Katie Rose is great at what she does. She writes romance that is surrounded by sports in a way that keeps me interested and wanting more. I am not really a sports fan and I'm not crazy about baseball or soccer. However, I loved her Boys of Summer series and Hard to Hold has given me a new appreciation for the sport of soccer. Now if she could just come out with a series about rugby (a sport I do adore) she would solidify a spot as one of my all time favourite romance authors! Hey...it was worth a try...no pun intended.
In Hard to Hold we are introduced to Logan Hart, a member of the New Jersey Hurricanes soccer team. While enjoying a few drinks with one of his team mates a woman he had a one night stand with shows up with a baby, tells him she is his and leaves her with him before disappearing. While trying to get things straightened out he hires Isabella as a nanny for baby Cinnamon.
I really liked Logan a lot. Although he was in denial about being Cinnamon's father he still stepped up and had her best interest at heart. There was a sensitivity to him that I found quit endearing. Isabella was also easy to like with her sweet but no nonsense personality and her love of children. Together they had ample chemistry and I thoroughly enjoyed their journey towards each other.
This book was easy to get lost in and finish in a few short hours. It flowed nicely and kept my interest from beginning to end. Although it may have seemed a little unrealistic (the whole baby drop at a bar) it worked. I can't wait to read the next instalment and see which of the New Jersey Hurricanes it is about.
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
I read the enitre Boys of Summer series about the New Jersey Sonics so when I heard that Katie Rose had a new series about a soccer team I had to have it. Hard to Hold is the first instalment in the new Hard to Play series.
Katie Rose is great at what she does. She writes romance that is surrounded by sports in a way that keeps me interested and wanting more. I am not really a sports fan and I'm not crazy about baseball or soccer. However, I loved her Boys of Summer series and Hard to Hold has given me a new appreciation for the sport of soccer. Now if she could just come out with a series about rugby (a sport I do adore) she would solidify a spot as one of my all time favourite romance authors! Hey...it was worth a try...no pun intended.
In Hard to Hold we are introduced to Logan Hart, a member of the New Jersey Hurricanes soccer team. While enjoying a few drinks with one of his team mates a woman he had a one night stand with shows up with a baby, tells him she is his and leaves her with him before disappearing. While trying to get things straightened out he hires Isabella as a nanny for baby Cinnamon.
I really liked Logan a lot. Although he was in denial about being Cinnamon's father he still stepped up and had her best interest at heart. There was a sensitivity to him that I found quit endearing. Isabella was also easy to like with her sweet but no nonsense personality and her love of children. Together they had ample chemistry and I thoroughly enjoyed their journey towards each other.
This book was easy to get lost in and finish in a few short hours. It flowed nicely and kept my interest from beginning to end. Although it may have seemed a little unrealistic (the whole baby drop at a bar) it worked. I can't wait to read the next instalment and see which of the New Jersey Hurricanes it is about.
July 16, 2016
Logan Hart is a professional Soccer player who knows how to work hard and go after what he wants. Whether in the form of goals or women. But when a one night stand from before he went overseas shows up at the bar he's at and leaves him with a 3 month year old he had no clue what he was doing. Logan is a great man and although he was a little loose with women he always took control of his respobsibilities. And he always knew that if he was to get into some trouble his family would be there to help him out. But adding a baby into the mix was not something he was anticipating. Now it's time to get serious (at least for a couple of weeks) so that the child has stability.
Isabella Bennet is what many would call the perfect nanny. She is a drill master but she genuinely cares about her charges and falls for them so often. But she has a rule. No working for the athletes. She refuses to get sucked into their charm. But after being told Cinnamon's story she can't help but to come to her aid. Isabella is a great women with a past and future that holds her in despair. I genuinely liked her because she had a real backbone and was not impervious to making mistakes which makes her a more normal "person".
The dynamics of Logan, Cinnamon, and Isabella has left me reeling and wanting more from this author. There was sex but it was sidelined when compared to the amazing plot, backstories, and characters that were so prevalent in this story. From the main characters to the secondary characters this book manages to pull you in from the very start.
I would definitely recommend this story to all contemporary romance lovers.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Isabella Bennet is what many would call the perfect nanny. She is a drill master but she genuinely cares about her charges and falls for them so often. But she has a rule. No working for the athletes. She refuses to get sucked into their charm. But after being told Cinnamon's story she can't help but to come to her aid. Isabella is a great women with a past and future that holds her in despair. I genuinely liked her because she had a real backbone and was not impervious to making mistakes which makes her a more normal "person".
The dynamics of Logan, Cinnamon, and Isabella has left me reeling and wanting more from this author. There was sex but it was sidelined when compared to the amazing plot, backstories, and characters that were so prevalent in this story. From the main characters to the secondary characters this book manages to pull you in from the very start.
I would definitely recommend this story to all contemporary romance lovers.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
September 9, 2016
This was a very enjoyable read for me. It was sweet, light and sexy.
I loved both of the main characters. Logan is a great male lead. He is sexy, confident and a little arrogant. His whole life is changed in a matter of minutes. A former ONS shows up and drops off a baby claiming it is his and she no longer wants the responsibility. Logan was understandably confused, mad and in total denial.
Isabella is hired by Logan to care for the little girl, he believes she will come in and he can get back to his life. But Isabella is not going to let him get away with just doing the minimum. She is a tough, no nonsense type of nanny and let's Logan know exactly how things are going to work. But underneath her tough outer exterior is a loving, caring woman who absolutely loves all the children she cares for.
I loved these two together. In the beginning they had explosive chemistry and over time they both brought out the best in one another.
The only problem I had with the book was the babies name "Cinnamon." Seriously it drove me crazy. I would have definitely changed the babies name were it my child,lol.
This book is a great summer read or if you are looking for something light and satisfying. Katie Rose is a new author to me and I am eager to read more from her.
I received an arc copy from NetGalley for an honest review!
I loved both of the main characters. Logan is a great male lead. He is sexy, confident and a little arrogant. His whole life is changed in a matter of minutes. A former ONS shows up and drops off a baby claiming it is his and she no longer wants the responsibility. Logan was understandably confused, mad and in total denial.
Isabella is hired by Logan to care for the little girl, he believes she will come in and he can get back to his life. But Isabella is not going to let him get away with just doing the minimum. She is a tough, no nonsense type of nanny and let's Logan know exactly how things are going to work. But underneath her tough outer exterior is a loving, caring woman who absolutely loves all the children she cares for.
I loved these two together. In the beginning they had explosive chemistry and over time they both brought out the best in one another.
The only problem I had with the book was the babies name "Cinnamon." Seriously it drove me crazy. I would have definitely changed the babies name were it my child,lol.
This book is a great summer read or if you are looking for something light and satisfying. Katie Rose is a new author to me and I am eager to read more from her.
I received an arc copy from NetGalley for an honest review!
May 20, 2016
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Thank you.
Hero(s) rating: 3.75 stars
Heroine rating: 3.75 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 3.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3 stars
Plot rating: 4 stars
Dialogue rating: 3 stars
Other woman/men drama: No
Storytelling rating: 3.5 stars
Story ending rating: 3.75 stars
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
**********************************************
Overall rating: 3.5 stars
Ok H & h's...I had my moments of liking them, then being confused by what was going on.
The story is pretty fast paced, so that's a major plus.
Great book if you're looking for a light read, with a bit of steam. Definitely a beach read for the summer.
Hero(s) rating: 3.75 stars
Heroine rating: 3.75 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 3.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3 stars
Plot rating: 4 stars
Dialogue rating: 3 stars
Other woman/men drama: No
Storytelling rating: 3.5 stars
Story ending rating: 3.75 stars
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
**********************************************
Overall rating: 3.5 stars
Ok H & h's...I had my moments of liking them, then being confused by what was going on.
The story is pretty fast paced, so that's a major plus.
Great book if you're looking for a light read, with a bit of steam. Definitely a beach read for the summer.
May 17, 2016
Logan could be a real passionate man at times, “you aren’t calling anybody,” he growled, pulling her into his arms. “You’re the best damned thing that ever happened to Cinnamon. And me. I’m lucky to have you on my team, and I’d be a fool not to know it. And I’m no effing fool.” I really liked this book, Logan was sweet, sexy and hot.
April 16, 2017
Hard to Hold is one of the many novels I've read by Katie Rose. It is a start for a new series and also a crossover from her Boys of Summer series. It is a stand alone, has an HEA, and is told from dual POVs between the main characters.
What would you do if your one night stand randomly walked into a place you were eating and plopped a baby carrier on the table amidst the food, then proceeds to walk out as if it's nothing? Me? I'm not so sure. I think I boggled right along with our hero, Logan, on that one. That entrance, however, caught my attention with the book. This man needs help, and he needs help fast.
This is where Isabella steps in. Nanny extraordinaire but also one who won't take crap from Logan and won't be steamed rolled. I liked that she was extremely maternal. I liked that she laid it out for Logan that he was the parent, not her and she expected him to be present in the child's life.
I liked these characters. I liked the plot. Honestly, it's pretty straight forward. There really isn't any angst, and you just have two people trying to figure things out when there is a lot of chemistry between them. The best way I can describe it is sweet. Logan basically melts my heart with that baby, too.
That leads me to why I rated the book a 4 instead of a 5. While reading the book, you know there is this overwhelming attraction between Logan and Isabella from the get-go. My problem was it seemed like most of the book Logan was gone, or just not present. He was always playing soccer, working out, or just out with friends. He has obligations, yes, but it seems like he is always gone.
I, sometimes, call that "foggy". When you know it but it's like your seeing it through a steamed shower glass. You know the connection is there, the attraction. It's just not clear, or you wonder how it can happen when it seems like one character isn't all in like you're reading they should be. Then it seemed like there was more of a connection. By the end, you definitely know it's there, though. It also could have just been me.
I'd still recommend Hard to Hold. It was a sweet, light story, that made for an easy read.
**ARC Provided by NetGalley via Publisher in exchange for an HONEST review.**
What would you do if your one night stand randomly walked into a place you were eating and plopped a baby carrier on the table amidst the food, then proceeds to walk out as if it's nothing? Me? I'm not so sure. I think I boggled right along with our hero, Logan, on that one. That entrance, however, caught my attention with the book. This man needs help, and he needs help fast.
This is where Isabella steps in. Nanny extraordinaire but also one who won't take crap from Logan and won't be steamed rolled. I liked that she was extremely maternal. I liked that she laid it out for Logan that he was the parent, not her and she expected him to be present in the child's life.
I liked these characters. I liked the plot. Honestly, it's pretty straight forward. There really isn't any angst, and you just have two people trying to figure things out when there is a lot of chemistry between them. The best way I can describe it is sweet. Logan basically melts my heart with that baby, too.
That leads me to why I rated the book a 4 instead of a 5. While reading the book, you know there is this overwhelming attraction between Logan and Isabella from the get-go. My problem was it seemed like most of the book Logan was gone, or just not present. He was always playing soccer, working out, or just out with friends. He has obligations, yes, but it seems like he is always gone.
I, sometimes, call that "foggy". When you know it but it's like your seeing it through a steamed shower glass. You know the connection is there, the attraction. It's just not clear, or you wonder how it can happen when it seems like one character isn't all in like you're reading they should be. Then it seemed like there was more of a connection. By the end, you definitely know it's there, though. It also could have just been me.
I'd still recommend Hard to Hold. It was a sweet, light story, that made for an easy read.
**ARC Provided by NetGalley via Publisher in exchange for an HONEST review.**
August 26, 2016
3.5 stars
I was pleasantly surprised with this book. Another new-to-me author (I do that more and more this year) and I picked it up because - DUH - the lead character was a footballer, as in soccer not an NFL one. So. Footballer with baby girl met a fierce nanny. Of course I was intrigued! It turned out to be enjoyable, sweet and touching.
Initially, I was not too fond of Logan the supposedly gorgeous hunk of a footballer daddy here. Everything about him seemed to be contrary; such as described as this yet doing the opposite instead. Plus, I didn't really get the significance of the story over his teenage UK-stay with his supposedly change of characters up to present time. Perhaps, this could be more interesting were said past put an annoying appearance somewhere in the present chapters. But no, he felt slighted and resent his father over it, yet later on there was no ...resolve or some kind of closure over it. Just Logan thought back of them a couple of times.
But - and I did put emphasis on that BUT - I gradually warmed up to him, especially related to the way he conduct himself with baby Cinnamon and her nanny. This jock was not a bad boy at all.
Of Isabella the nanny, I'll just put my impression of her by quoting what she said when she first stepped into Logan life:
As I mentioned earlier I'm new to Katie Rose's works. But it's safe to say that I like her writing. There's no over the top drama here, and what I liked best from her characters was that they owned up to their mistakes (instead of making excuses or blaming others) then didn't waste time to try to fix it. That, and - despite the mutual attractions - the MCs did not jump each other bones straight away. There were steamy scenes, sure. But at least there was phase, development, before they finally do the tango and beyond. There were other aspects here which were overlooked and predictable, but I tried to be less nit-picky for a chance.
Hard to Hold is the first of a new series which revolved around the boys of New Jersey Hurricanes in MLS. I look forward to more on the next installment of Logan's teammates. In the mean time, I'd make do catching up with her books of Baseball players on The Boys of Summer series. ;-)
Advanced copy of the book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was pleasantly surprised with this book. Another new-to-me author (I do that more and more this year) and I picked it up because - DUH - the lead character was a footballer, as in soccer not an NFL one. So. Footballer with baby girl met a fierce nanny. Of course I was intrigued! It turned out to be enjoyable, sweet and touching.
Initially, I was not too fond of Logan the supposedly gorgeous hunk of a footballer daddy here. Everything about him seemed to be contrary; such as described as this yet doing the opposite instead. Plus, I didn't really get the significance of the story over his teenage UK-stay with his supposedly change of characters up to present time. Perhaps, this could be more interesting were said past put an annoying appearance somewhere in the present chapters. But no, he felt slighted and resent his father over it, yet later on there was no ...resolve or some kind of closure over it. Just Logan thought back of them a couple of times.
But - and I did put emphasis on that BUT - I gradually warmed up to him, especially related to the way he conduct himself with baby Cinnamon and her nanny. This jock was not a bad boy at all.
Of Isabella the nanny, I'll just put my impression of her by quoting what she said when she first stepped into Logan life:
"...we need to get something straight. I am a nanny. I am not the babby's mother or father. You are."Well, hello? Who wouldn't love a heroine who could put someone in his place like that?? The lady was no pushover. I love a strong female character! Imagine the clash of two strong personalities, undercurrent attractions, with a dash of cuteness from the baby; you'd get the gist of the tone of the story.
"...You won't be alone. I'll help you. But if you think you can just outsource raising your baby, that doesn't work for me. Are we clear?"
As I mentioned earlier I'm new to Katie Rose's works. But it's safe to say that I like her writing. There's no over the top drama here, and what I liked best from her characters was that they owned up to their mistakes (instead of making excuses or blaming others) then didn't waste time to try to fix it. That, and - despite the mutual attractions - the MCs did not jump each other bones straight away. There were steamy scenes, sure. But at least there was phase, development, before they finally do the tango and beyond. There were other aspects here which were overlooked and predictable, but I tried to be less nit-picky for a chance.
Hard to Hold is the first of a new series which revolved around the boys of New Jersey Hurricanes in MLS. I look forward to more on the next installment of Logan's teammates. In the mean time, I'd make do catching up with her books of Baseball players on The Boys of Summer series. ;-)
Advanced copy of the book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2016
ARC provided by the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an impartial review.
*****
When Logan Hart has a surprise visit from Desiree, a long ago one-night stand, he’s shocked when she introduces him to Cinnamon, a baby she claims is his daughter. And then he’s stunned when she turns and walks out of their lives, leaving him with temporary custody and the paperwork for a paternity suit.
Not what he wanted—that’s for sure, but the star of a professional hockey team is nothing if not resourceful, and he takes the first necessary steps toward stability by hiring a professional nanny as soon as he can. In the meantime, for the first few days, his sister is there to help him get up and running.
Denial is a beautiful place, but Logan can’t stay there long, so he hires a private detective to help him track down Desiree. He needs to get some resolution to the custody situation because his new nanny is forcing him into situations where he has to bond with the baby, and it’s starting to work.
And speaking of the nanny, Isabella Bennett is gorgeous, sweet, and kind, and before he knows it, the sexy blonde has him panting for her attention. She’s good at holding off a man, especially one who is her employer, but the more she gets to know the gorgeous alpha male who is her boss, the more there is to like. Logan is not only good-looking, he’s generous and kind, and she can see that he’s falling head over heels in love with the baby. What’s not to like?
Of course, there are deep secrets in her past—secrets that throw a wrench into their relationship. And there’s the paternity issue—is he really Cinnamon’s father? This was a nice story, not overly dramatic, but with a little necessary tension surrounding the paternity issue and disappearance of the baby’s mother. There was some sexual tension between Logan and Isabella, but I didn’t feel the romance. It seemed like he got her in bed pretty quickly, and though they went on a date the next night, all of their interactions seemed to revolve around the baby, and I didn’t feel them building a solid relationship.
The secondary characters were great, especially Logan’s sister and parents and Isabella’s boss and best friend. I thought the reasoning behind Isabella’s upset and the “big dark secret” was ridiculous, and her actions in dealing with the issue quite unfathomable. In fact, if there were a way to wave a magic wand to bring Logan to life, I’d do it and bring him to my house. I really liked that man. From my perspective, Isabella didn’t deserve him, and I wouldn’t mind leaving her stuck in a cabin in the woods.
I found quite a few of the baby’s actions and activities highly age inappropriate, but since this is an ARC, some of the things that hit my buttons may be deleted before the final release, so I won’t mention them, and I didn’t let it affect my review, other than noting in passing that sometimes it’s the little things that make this reader lose focus on the bigger picture, and I appreciate an author who pays attention to the details.
If you’re a fan of romance between a sexy blonde woman and a sexy alpha-type athlete who comes with a premade family, this one should be on your wish list.
*****
When Logan Hart has a surprise visit from Desiree, a long ago one-night stand, he’s shocked when she introduces him to Cinnamon, a baby she claims is his daughter. And then he’s stunned when she turns and walks out of their lives, leaving him with temporary custody and the paperwork for a paternity suit.
Not what he wanted—that’s for sure, but the star of a professional hockey team is nothing if not resourceful, and he takes the first necessary steps toward stability by hiring a professional nanny as soon as he can. In the meantime, for the first few days, his sister is there to help him get up and running.
Denial is a beautiful place, but Logan can’t stay there long, so he hires a private detective to help him track down Desiree. He needs to get some resolution to the custody situation because his new nanny is forcing him into situations where he has to bond with the baby, and it’s starting to work.
And speaking of the nanny, Isabella Bennett is gorgeous, sweet, and kind, and before he knows it, the sexy blonde has him panting for her attention. She’s good at holding off a man, especially one who is her employer, but the more she gets to know the gorgeous alpha male who is her boss, the more there is to like. Logan is not only good-looking, he’s generous and kind, and she can see that he’s falling head over heels in love with the baby. What’s not to like?
Of course, there are deep secrets in her past—secrets that throw a wrench into their relationship. And there’s the paternity issue—is he really Cinnamon’s father? This was a nice story, not overly dramatic, but with a little necessary tension surrounding the paternity issue and disappearance of the baby’s mother. There was some sexual tension between Logan and Isabella, but I didn’t feel the romance. It seemed like he got her in bed pretty quickly, and though they went on a date the next night, all of their interactions seemed to revolve around the baby, and I didn’t feel them building a solid relationship.
The secondary characters were great, especially Logan’s sister and parents and Isabella’s boss and best friend. I thought the reasoning behind Isabella’s upset and the “big dark secret” was ridiculous, and her actions in dealing with the issue quite unfathomable. In fact, if there were a way to wave a magic wand to bring Logan to life, I’d do it and bring him to my house. I really liked that man. From my perspective, Isabella didn’t deserve him, and I wouldn’t mind leaving her stuck in a cabin in the woods.
I found quite a few of the baby’s actions and activities highly age inappropriate, but since this is an ARC, some of the things that hit my buttons may be deleted before the final release, so I won’t mention them, and I didn’t let it affect my review, other than noting in passing that sometimes it’s the little things that make this reader lose focus on the bigger picture, and I appreciate an author who pays attention to the details.
If you’re a fan of romance between a sexy blonde woman and a sexy alpha-type athlete who comes with a premade family, this one should be on your wish list.
June 18, 2016
I really have been on a sports romance kick, mostly hockey for some reason. Even though I don't watch a lot of sports in real life (except for my Phillies!), I've been enamored by the hot alpha athletes who fall hard for their women (or men as the case may be). So, when I got the opportunity to review HARD TO HOLD, I jumped at the chance.
HARD TO HOLD is the story of Logan Hart. He's a professional soccer player who is looking forward to the upcoming season, getting some action, and enjoying life. But things get derailed when a one-night stand shows up at a bar he's hanging out at and drops off a little red-haired baby at his table stating that the baby is his; and then unbelievably she walks away. Logan has no idea what to do, so he hires a nanny service and the woman they send is the answer to his prayers in more ways than one.
Isabella Bennet loves her job as a nanny but she likes to whip the parents into shape as much as the children. She doesn't have time for a single dad who wants to take the hands off approach. But, for some reason she can't deny the attraction between them. When things get serious, Isabella runs scared. She's got secrets of her own, and she's not sure if she's strong enough to go after what she really wants only to lose it all.
I thought HARD TO HOLD was really cute. I've read sports romance before, and I've read the sexy single dad trope before, but I liked the way the author put this together. Logan and Isabella had some serious chemistry. Logan's character was the draw for me though. I loved how he went from completely clueless to #1 dad over the course of the story. Cinnamon, the cute little baby totally transformed him.
My only complaint about this story was the way that Isabella handled herself. I didn't like that she decided everyone's future without explaining herself. It was selfish and just seemed completely out of character for her compared to the rest of the story. It seemed as though it got sorted out soon enough but I just couldn't believe that the no-nonsense nanny handled herself that way.
HARD TO HOLD is the first book in Hard to Play series, and I don't have a clue who the next book will feature but I will be looking out for it because I want to continue the series. It also seems that HARD TO HOLD has a connection to the author's Boys of Summer series, and the heroine in book #3 (The Heat of the Moment), Jessica Hart is Logan Hart's sister.
Overall, I thought HARD TO HOLD was a fun read. Perfect for summer, it had a sweet story and just enough sizzle to heat you up. I've never read a novel by Katie Rose before, but I think I will definitely check out her Boys of Summer series while I'm waiting for the next Hard to Play novel to come out.
*ARC provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*
HARD TO HOLD is the story of Logan Hart. He's a professional soccer player who is looking forward to the upcoming season, getting some action, and enjoying life. But things get derailed when a one-night stand shows up at a bar he's hanging out at and drops off a little red-haired baby at his table stating that the baby is his; and then unbelievably she walks away. Logan has no idea what to do, so he hires a nanny service and the woman they send is the answer to his prayers in more ways than one.
Isabella Bennet loves her job as a nanny but she likes to whip the parents into shape as much as the children. She doesn't have time for a single dad who wants to take the hands off approach. But, for some reason she can't deny the attraction between them. When things get serious, Isabella runs scared. She's got secrets of her own, and she's not sure if she's strong enough to go after what she really wants only to lose it all.
I thought HARD TO HOLD was really cute. I've read sports romance before, and I've read the sexy single dad trope before, but I liked the way the author put this together. Logan and Isabella had some serious chemistry. Logan's character was the draw for me though. I loved how he went from completely clueless to #1 dad over the course of the story. Cinnamon, the cute little baby totally transformed him.
My only complaint about this story was the way that Isabella handled herself. I didn't like that she decided everyone's future without explaining herself. It was selfish and just seemed completely out of character for her compared to the rest of the story. It seemed as though it got sorted out soon enough but I just couldn't believe that the no-nonsense nanny handled herself that way.
HARD TO HOLD is the first book in Hard to Play series, and I don't have a clue who the next book will feature but I will be looking out for it because I want to continue the series. It also seems that HARD TO HOLD has a connection to the author's Boys of Summer series, and the heroine in book #3 (The Heat of the Moment), Jessica Hart is Logan Hart's sister.
Overall, I thought HARD TO HOLD was a fun read. Perfect for summer, it had a sweet story and just enough sizzle to heat you up. I've never read a novel by Katie Rose before, but I think I will definitely check out her Boys of Summer series while I'm waiting for the next Hard to Play novel to come out.
*ARC provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*
July 20, 2016
When I first got this book from NetGalley, I guess I glossed over the fact that it was about a soccer player. I started playing softball when I was 5 years old and I loved it so much, that I thought I would branch out to other sports when I was around 10. Let's just say that I didn't last a whole season. I was taught to never quit and usually my parents would make me ride out any commitments that I had made but I think they hated it as much as I did, so they let me quit. Quite plainly, it sucked ass. I thought it was boring beyond belief. So back to softball it was for me. Anyway, unfortunately, soccer hasn't gotten any more interesting for me since then. I practically raced over the parts that were about soccer because my eyes started glossing over. Not a good sign.
The characters were okay ... I didn't really feel any connection to them. Actually, the emotion that I felt the most was irritation at the name Cinnamon ... people were just walking around, acting like this was a perfectly normal name. Yeah. It's not. I think that I would have liked Paprika as a name better than Cinnamon. Every time I read that name, I just became irrationally irritated for some reason. Anyway ... I liked Logan and Isabella but they weren't memorable to me. I couldn't tell you what either of them looked like if my life depended on it. Again, not good. Their relationship was interesting ... the dynamic between Logan and Isabella was a nice push and pull but again, it just wasn't memorable. The characters needed just a little more umph, you know? Not that I know how to fix them but something was definitely missing.
The plot of the book was just ... okay. It moved along at a sluggish pace for me. There were times when nothing was really going on but it felt like chapters were dedicated to that nothingness. It wasn't really chapters ... just pages ... but it felt really long. It just dragged the book out. And I don't want to talk about the soccer stuff again. It just did nothing for me. Except distract me from the name Cinnamon. That was one good thing that soccer has done for me. I gave it three stars, so something must have been good about it, right? Well, yes. There were parts that were entertaining for me but they were just so few and far between and coupled with the character issues I had, I couldn't rate it higher than a three.
This just wasn't the book for me. Next time, I'll pay closer attention to the dude's job before I pick up a book. Not the book for me, so I'll pass on the rest of this series.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
September 17, 2016
I really enjoy Katie Rose's books. She writes the kind of contemporary romance that you can just sit back and lose yourself in....enjoyable, fun, and romantic, and Hard to Hold is just that kind of book. Logan is the on so swoon-worthy soccer player whose status is changed to that of new dad in the blink of an eye. Isabella is the new Nanny, who is the best at what she does, but also beautiful, which does not go unnoticed by Logan. They try to keep things professional, but that proves to be quite difficult, despite both their best efforts. The one wonderful thing to come out of his one-night-stand is Cinnamon, the beautiful little red-headed bundle of joy that Logan and everyone else who meets her can't help falling in love with.
Logan and Isabella do, of course, have their share of obstacles to overcome as their relationship progresses and issues with the permanency of Cinnamon's custody status comes into play, and I love the way Logan's character develops into a stand-up and standout dad in this process.
Hard to Hold is a wonderful beginning to Katie Rose's new Hard to Play series. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for the next installment.
Logan and Isabella do, of course, have their share of obstacles to overcome as their relationship progresses and issues with the permanency of Cinnamon's custody status comes into play, and I love the way Logan's character develops into a stand-up and standout dad in this process.
Hard to Hold is a wonderful beginning to Katie Rose's new Hard to Play series. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for the next installment.
June 27, 2016
3 STARS!!
I was expecting to feel more from Hard to Hold, I don't know I just didn't connect with the characters. Their relationship was a slow burn, which I don't really like. Logan was very sweet and I liked how his relationship with Cinnamon improved throughout the story.
Hard to Hold starts of with Logan finding out he is the father to a baby girl called Cinnamon. As you would imagine he was in denial and didn't believe she was his.
So now that Logan is stuck with a baby, he needs to find a nanny as he is a footballer and has no clue about babies, this is where we meet Isabella!
Isabella has a background that a really sympathized with, being a nanny brought her great joy and sadness when she had to leave the children she took care of and grew to love. At first Bella and Logan do not get along because they are both trying to fight off attraction they have for one another.
The whole Will they, Won't they thing is not for me. I got soo frustrated at the 35%!!
When these two finally gave up and got together it was like a miracle!!
If you're looking for something sweet to read this will be for you, there's not a lot of drama and as always a Happily Ever After
I kindly received this ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I was expecting to feel more from Hard to Hold, I don't know I just didn't connect with the characters. Their relationship was a slow burn, which I don't really like. Logan was very sweet and I liked how his relationship with Cinnamon improved throughout the story.
Hard to Hold starts of with Logan finding out he is the father to a baby girl called Cinnamon. As you would imagine he was in denial and didn't believe she was his.
So now that Logan is stuck with a baby, he needs to find a nanny as he is a footballer and has no clue about babies, this is where we meet Isabella!
Isabella has a background that a really sympathized with, being a nanny brought her great joy and sadness when she had to leave the children she took care of and grew to love. At first Bella and Logan do not get along because they are both trying to fight off attraction they have for one another.
The whole Will they, Won't they thing is not for me. I got soo frustrated at the 35%!!
When these two finally gave up and got together it was like a miracle!!
If you're looking for something sweet to read this will be for you, there's not a lot of drama and as always a Happily Ever After
I kindly received this ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews