Book Review: Hold On to Me (Return to Haven) by Jules Bennett

Hold On to Me is the third book in the Return to Haven series by Jules Bennett. While I have not read the previous books, I think that I can safely say that each can stand on its on, however this will be a must read for fans of the series since the main couple are the last singles in this particular group of friends. 

Jade McKenzie left her high-society family’s expectations behind when she came back to cozy Haven, and she’s never been happier. But what’s supposed to be a quick trip to Nashville for a cousin’s wedding turns into a disaster when one of the airport’s pilots offers to fly her there. One crash landing and a shared room later, and tattooed, bearded Cash Miller is standing in as her gorgeously unsuitable plus-one—and turning her on in ways she can’t deny. But a relationship? A real one? That’s definitely in the no-fly zone.  Vincent “Cash” Miller doesn’t have much in the world, but he does have pride—and a strict policy not to let anyone trash-talk his friends, not even their mothers. Standing up for sexy, headstrong Jade comes naturally—but so does the bone-deep itch for her he’s always wanted to scratch. Giving in to attraction is one thing, but commitment is another. So why does it feel like together, love might take them to breathtaking heights? 

Hold On to Me is a friends to more romance that rounds out a series of contemporary romances. I loved Jade's balance of spunk and vulnerability. She is a smart business woman, willing to fight for herself and her friends, but is not all that confident or experienced when it comes to relationships. Cah likes to go it alone, his past has taught him not to put his faith in others- and even when those closest to him would be happy to lend a hand he is too stubborn to ask for help. This pair shares the same circle of friends and engage in a battle of wits and wills at almost every turn. It was great fun to see these to take that spark and turn it into something so much more, and to see them each grow so much emotionally through the book. They each have so many fears and vulnerability- but are so busy trying not to show it that the read was a roller coaster. I liked them each individually- and their circle of friends were great. I enjoyed watching the relationship play out- and thought that their hangups and reactions were very realistic. There were a few moments when I wanted to face palm, not because the reaction was not organic, but because I knew it would other cause more trouble or issues along the road.

Hold On to Me is a romance with plenty of heart and heart and a nice touch of humor to keep everything balanced.

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