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Hold on My Heart
To build a future, sometimes you have to tear down the past…
Chicago event planner Libby Hamilton can turn any bland setting into a dramatic venue – but when she abruptly loses her job, and her fair-weather boyfriend moves to another state, Libby suddenly finds herself back in the tiny town she grew up in. Worse than that, her father wants help transforming an old schoolhouse into a vintage ice cream parlor and Libby must trade in her power suits for power tools.
Widowed restoration specialist Tom Murphy can rebuild just about anything – except the shattered relationship he shares with his teenaged daughter. Hired by Libby’s father, Tom isn’t interested in sharing the details of his personal life with beautiful, spunky Libby. He just wants to get the job done. But she is tenacious – and sexy – and it doesn’t take long before she breaks down his walls, builds up his hope, and gets a hold on his heart that won’t let go.
Chicago event planner Libby Hamilton can turn any bland setting into a dramatic venue – but when she abruptly loses her job, and her fair-weather boyfriend moves to another state, Libby suddenly finds herself back in the tiny town she grew up in. Worse than that, her father wants help transforming an old schoolhouse into a vintage ice cream parlor and Libby must trade in her power suits for power tools.
Widowed restoration specialist Tom Murphy can rebuild just about anything – except the shattered relationship he shares with his teenaged daughter. Hired by Libby’s father, Tom isn’t interested in sharing the details of his personal life with beautiful, spunky Libby. He just wants to get the job done. But she is tenacious – and sexy – and it doesn’t take long before she breaks down his walls, builds up his hope, and gets a hold on his heart that won’t let go.
296 pages, Paperback
First published June 25, 2013
1049 people are currently reading
1213 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Brogan
24 books1,325 followersUSA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Publishing bestselling author Tracy Brogan writes happily ever after stories full laughter and love. A three-time recipient of the Amazon Publishing Diamond award for sales exceeding three-million copies, a three-time finalist of the RWA® RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction, and a winner of the Booksellers Best award, Brogan’s books, including both the Bell Harbor and Trillium Bay series, feature re-imagined versions of her favorite Michigan locations and have been translated into more than a dozen languages worldwide. Although best known for her laugh-out-loud contemporary romantic comedies, she’s currently at work on several historical projects including a gilded age series set in Trillium Bay, the long-awaited sequel to Highland Surrender, and a dual-timeline rom-com that just *may* include ghosts. (Psst… it totally has ghosts.) Find out more about Brogan at tracybrogan.com.
Tracy Brogan Books. Witty. Whimsical. Wonderful.
Tracy Brogan Books. Witty. Whimsical. Wonderful.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
September 21, 2016
It was good, but not as enjoyable as the other book I read by this author.
I recognize this is "chick lit" and not romance, but I did expect a stronger romantic relationship. Tom was an insensitive boar and outside of intense sexual chemistry, there really wasn't much more to their relationship. His words of love were weak, and his actions showed that she will always come in 3rd or 4th on his list of priorities. I know that love is unselfish and conquers all, but the fact that she was okay with being such a low priority, made for a lukewarm read.
The family angle was cute. The crazy relatives added depth and dimension to the story which is why I gave it 3 stars. Otherwise, I would have rated it lower, which is a shame given the storyline and the book had such potential. The story grabbed me from the beginning, but fizzled out about halfway through.
I recognize this is "chick lit" and not romance, but I did expect a stronger romantic relationship. Tom was an insensitive boar and outside of intense sexual chemistry, there really wasn't much more to their relationship. His words of love were weak, and his actions showed that she will always come in 3rd or 4th on his list of priorities. I know that love is unselfish and conquers all, but the fact that she was okay with being such a low priority, made for a lukewarm read.
The family angle was cute. The crazy relatives added depth and dimension to the story which is why I gave it 3 stars. Otherwise, I would have rated it lower, which is a shame given the storyline and the book had such potential. The story grabbed me from the beginning, but fizzled out about halfway through.
July 26, 2013
Blah.
Predictable, slow, boring. There were occasional moments of humor, but sometimes it was trying too hard. Libby's family annoyed me, Tom was not endearing, and Libby was a bit of a...I don't know. She annoyed me, as well, I guess. It's not a terrible book, and there were parts I enjoyed, but all in all, it just wasn't all that fun to read. It was a bit...well, dull. Blah.
Predictable, slow, boring. There were occasional moments of humor, but sometimes it was trying too hard. Libby's family annoyed me, Tom was not endearing, and Libby was a bit of a...I don't know. She annoyed me, as well, I guess. It's not a terrible book, and there were parts I enjoyed, but all in all, it just wasn't all that fun to read. It was a bit...well, dull. Blah.
July 3, 2013
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.
This is actually my first Tracy Brogan book, but after reading Hold On My Heart...I know it will not be my last. This book is delightful, witty and heart-warming. The author's descriptive language shows that she is truly a gifted writer. She pulled me into this small town world and I loved every minute of it.
We're introduced to Libby in the first chapter. She is a woman who returns to her small town home after her corporate career abruptly comes to an end, all thanks to an email. Libby appears to be an accident-prone klutz, but something about her is endearing. Her retired father pulls her into his latest harebrained scheme -- opening an old fashioned ice cream parlor. The author creates a vivid image of Libby's quirky, sometimes comedic family but you love them nonetheless. Libby's father hires Tom Murphy (who in my opinion is deliciously sexy) to restore his investment and Libby's first encounter with Tom is rather amusing. Despite her embarrassing first impression, Libby's curiosity gets the best of her. Her interest in Tom grows while Tom resents his interest in Libby. She is loquacious and drives Tom mad but there is something about her he can't shake. Slowly he begins to open up to her. While these two grapple with their feelings, you will undoubtedly root for their happy ever after. This is a great summer read. I read it in one sitting. The story is realistic, well written and utterly charming. I highly recommend this to readers who enjoy a good romance with a dash of comedy.
This is actually my first Tracy Brogan book, but after reading Hold On My Heart...I know it will not be my last. This book is delightful, witty and heart-warming. The author's descriptive language shows that she is truly a gifted writer. She pulled me into this small town world and I loved every minute of it.
We're introduced to Libby in the first chapter. She is a woman who returns to her small town home after her corporate career abruptly comes to an end, all thanks to an email. Libby appears to be an accident-prone klutz, but something about her is endearing. Her retired father pulls her into his latest harebrained scheme -- opening an old fashioned ice cream parlor. The author creates a vivid image of Libby's quirky, sometimes comedic family but you love them nonetheless. Libby's father hires Tom Murphy (who in my opinion is deliciously sexy) to restore his investment and Libby's first encounter with Tom is rather amusing. Despite her embarrassing first impression, Libby's curiosity gets the best of her. Her interest in Tom grows while Tom resents his interest in Libby. She is loquacious and drives Tom mad but there is something about her he can't shake. Slowly he begins to open up to her. While these two grapple with their feelings, you will undoubtedly root for their happy ever after. This is a great summer read. I read it in one sitting. The story is realistic, well written and utterly charming. I highly recommend this to readers who enjoy a good romance with a dash of comedy.
June 7, 2013
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this book, and it was wonderful! Brogan's trademark voice rings true in this poignant story, with its witty cast of characters and pull-at-your-heartstring moments. The tension is well-layered and moves the story beautifully as both Tom and Libby learn to navigate their lives and their hearts. Another winner from Tracy Brogan!
January 13, 2019
Liked this one a lot- much better than the other book I read by this author. It was sweet to see Libby's and Tom's relationship blossom. And there were several times I actually laughed out loud because of the many humorous, witty lines.
June 24, 2017
My Musings
Wow! Great romance from the first page to the last. Just loved the hero and heroine. Both are fantastic. This one had me laughing out loud and yet lots of deep emotions. Loved the secondary characters as well, especially Granny. This is a great example of chick Lit and romantic comedy rolled into one. Just love Ms. Brogan's writing style. Happy ☺reading 📚!
Wow! Great romance from the first page to the last. Just loved the hero and heroine. Both are fantastic. This one had me laughing out loud and yet lots of deep emotions. Loved the secondary characters as well, especially Granny. This is a great example of chick Lit and romantic comedy rolled into one. Just love Ms. Brogan's writing style. Happy ☺reading 📚!
May 3, 2013
In my January 31, 2013 post, I introduced you to author, Tracy Brogan and her book, "Crazy Little Thing." http://lisasreads.com/2013/01/31/craz... I explained how much I LOVED not just "Crazy Little thing," but Ms. Brogan's writing style, which is refreshing, fun, heart-warm, sexy, inspiring, funny, sincere, sometimes sad, raw, and always entertaining. What I learned during and after reading, "Crazy Little Thing," was that the entire world seemed to agree with my opinion. Ms. Brogan's book has been selling like wildfire across the globe many times over. What an exciting, wonderful, and crazy little thing! (Clever..I know! Heehee)
After falling so hard for the first Tracy Brogan book I read, I felt practically giddy when Ms. Brogan offered me an ARC for her next book, "Hold on My Heart." While the excitement washed over me, so did the slight sense of fear...what if this next book didn't meet my extraordinarily high expectations of Ms. Brogan's work? I think I would be devastated....................
(Exhale) Not one ounce of devastation to be found!!! "Hold on My Heart," is a beautifully crafted story of life, love, failure, success, falling down, and climbing back up. Our heroine, Libby Hamilton, has recently moved back in with her parents after losing her high-powered event-planning job due to a (very funny, but equally terrifying) mistake that each and everyone of us has probably either made or feared we've made at least once in our lives (you're already hooked aren't you??). Now, living in her childhood home, amongst her parents and her ornery, snarky but entertaining grandmother; starting a "project" with her sometimes flighty but always loving father; and dealing with her two sisters and their quickly changing lives, Libby feels like her like her life is falling out of her control...
Restoration specialist Tom Murphy has the skills to rebuild just about anything - but his past has kept his life a dilapidated mess that even he doesn't have the tools to repair. When Libby and Tom start working together on the project of Libby's father's dreams more starts to happen than just the restoration of an old building.
In what seems to be true Ms. Brogan fashion, "Hold on My Heart," does exactly that...it reaches into my chest and caresses my heart. Unlike some books where the reader is left feeling wrung out and exhausted by the last page, HoMH, left me feeling warm, emotional, happy, and satisfied. While unlike its lighter predecessor, "Crazy Little Thing," HoMH definitely has a deeper feel with a stronger message, but the delivery is gentle and the touch is still gentle. The characters are all wonderful and charming in their own way. It's funny, I could identify or relate to every single character in this book. AND if I couldn't relate to them...then I "knew" them somehow in my own life. I almost dare you to read this story and NOT find at least one of the characters that doesn't sound familiar to you. Go ahead, try!! With this story, Ms. Brogan has easily moved herself to my "Automatic" list. I mean honestly, any author that can have me giggling, teary-eyed, smiling, heart sick, and sighing in back-to-back books has a quality to screams Believe in Me...I will keep you happy! So Ms. Brogan - you have me hooked! I can't wait to see what you come up with next!
After falling so hard for the first Tracy Brogan book I read, I felt practically giddy when Ms. Brogan offered me an ARC for her next book, "Hold on My Heart." While the excitement washed over me, so did the slight sense of fear...what if this next book didn't meet my extraordinarily high expectations of Ms. Brogan's work? I think I would be devastated....................
(Exhale) Not one ounce of devastation to be found!!! "Hold on My Heart," is a beautifully crafted story of life, love, failure, success, falling down, and climbing back up. Our heroine, Libby Hamilton, has recently moved back in with her parents after losing her high-powered event-planning job due to a (very funny, but equally terrifying) mistake that each and everyone of us has probably either made or feared we've made at least once in our lives (you're already hooked aren't you??). Now, living in her childhood home, amongst her parents and her ornery, snarky but entertaining grandmother; starting a "project" with her sometimes flighty but always loving father; and dealing with her two sisters and their quickly changing lives, Libby feels like her like her life is falling out of her control...
Restoration specialist Tom Murphy has the skills to rebuild just about anything - but his past has kept his life a dilapidated mess that even he doesn't have the tools to repair. When Libby and Tom start working together on the project of Libby's father's dreams more starts to happen than just the restoration of an old building.
In what seems to be true Ms. Brogan fashion, "Hold on My Heart," does exactly that...it reaches into my chest and caresses my heart. Unlike some books where the reader is left feeling wrung out and exhausted by the last page, HoMH, left me feeling warm, emotional, happy, and satisfied. While unlike its lighter predecessor, "Crazy Little Thing," HoMH definitely has a deeper feel with a stronger message, but the delivery is gentle and the touch is still gentle. The characters are all wonderful and charming in their own way. It's funny, I could identify or relate to every single character in this book. AND if I couldn't relate to them...then I "knew" them somehow in my own life. I almost dare you to read this story and NOT find at least one of the characters that doesn't sound familiar to you. Go ahead, try!! With this story, Ms. Brogan has easily moved herself to my "Automatic" list. I mean honestly, any author that can have me giggling, teary-eyed, smiling, heart sick, and sighing in back-to-back books has a quality to screams Believe in Me...I will keep you happy! So Ms. Brogan - you have me hooked! I can't wait to see what you come up with next!
May 20, 2014
Hold on my heart
throw me a lifeline
I'll keep a place for you
somewhere deep inside
- Phil Collins
HOLD ON MY HEART brings together Libby and Tom when each faced a cross road in their lives - Libby lost her job, her boyfriend, and her apartment. She returns home to her family who has their own hands full - her father is opening an ice cream parlor in a run down school house; her mother contends with the cranky live-in grandmother; her older sister is about to give birth; and her younger sister is engaged to a jouster. Tom has his own baggage - his guilt over a car accident that killed his wife; his distant daughter; and his angry in laws.
Libby and Tom clash during the renovation yet neither can ignore their attraction to the other. Their attraction makes them realize that they can let go of past hurt to find a future together. Brogan delivers a sweet romance in a small town setting with quirky (yet heartwarming) characters. Passion ignites between Libby and Tom ... but story shifts to Tom as he wrestles with his demons. Brogan charmed me by allowing Libby to be the conduit for Tom to reengage with his life and reconnect with his daughter.
I enjoyed HOLD ON MY HEART and recommend it to fans of contemporary romance, small town settings, and "aww" moments. I won a copy of HOLD ON MY HEART from another blog giveaway.
throw me a lifeline
I'll keep a place for you
somewhere deep inside
- Phil Collins
HOLD ON MY HEART brings together Libby and Tom when each faced a cross road in their lives - Libby lost her job, her boyfriend, and her apartment. She returns home to her family who has their own hands full - her father is opening an ice cream parlor in a run down school house; her mother contends with the cranky live-in grandmother; her older sister is about to give birth; and her younger sister is engaged to a jouster. Tom has his own baggage - his guilt over a car accident that killed his wife; his distant daughter; and his angry in laws.
Libby and Tom clash during the renovation yet neither can ignore their attraction to the other. Their attraction makes them realize that they can let go of past hurt to find a future together. Brogan delivers a sweet romance in a small town setting with quirky (yet heartwarming) characters. Passion ignites between Libby and Tom ... but story shifts to Tom as he wrestles with his demons. Brogan charmed me by allowing Libby to be the conduit for Tom to reengage with his life and reconnect with his daughter.
I enjoyed HOLD ON MY HEART and recommend it to fans of contemporary romance, small town settings, and "aww" moments. I won a copy of HOLD ON MY HEART from another blog giveaway.
July 17, 2013
I immediately bought this book when I saw it, as I'd really liked Brogan's other book "Crazy Little Thing". I'm sad to say, this book is not in the same class as Crazy Little Thing (in my opinion) but it's still a cute book - just more of a cookie-cutter romance novel.
Event planner Libby moves back in with her folks after she loses her job due to a unfortunate "reply-all" email. Her boyfriend remains in the city, and is growing more and more distant, and then her little sister shows up with a new boyfriend, tattoos, and an announcement that she's getting married. And on top of that, Libby's Dad reveals that he used Libby's wedding fund to purchase a decrepit old building which he plans to turn into a state-of-the-art old fashioned ice cream parlor.
Enter in Tom Murphy, the widowed, tortured renovation specialist. Immediately, sparks fly between Libby and Tom but, as in any romance novel, obstacles emerge while will be overcome only after the reader frets unnecessarily. In the end, it's Happily Ever After.
Cute beach read but standard romance fare.
Event planner Libby moves back in with her folks after she loses her job due to a unfortunate "reply-all" email. Her boyfriend remains in the city, and is growing more and more distant, and then her little sister shows up with a new boyfriend, tattoos, and an announcement that she's getting married. And on top of that, Libby's Dad reveals that he used Libby's wedding fund to purchase a decrepit old building which he plans to turn into a state-of-the-art old fashioned ice cream parlor.
Enter in Tom Murphy, the widowed, tortured renovation specialist. Immediately, sparks fly between Libby and Tom but, as in any romance novel, obstacles emerge while will be overcome only after the reader frets unnecessarily. In the end, it's Happily Ever After.
Cute beach read but standard romance fare.
July 3, 2013
I have been brushing my teeth the past two mornings with one hand and holding my phone/kindle app in the other so I didn't have to put this book down the last 2/3 of the read.
I think that best says it all. Another funny read from this author. Thanks!
I think that best says it all. Another funny read from this author. Thanks!
October 9, 2016
Loved it! Absolutely loved it! Real, down to earth characters, and flighty ones as well. It all blended together into one terrific story!
June 25, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.ca/2013...
Being roped into her father's newest questionable undertaking, is not part of Libby Hamilton's plans. No, overseeing the transformation of an old decrepit schoolhouse into an old-fashioned ice cream parlour is a far cry from getting back up on her feet, finding a new job and a place to live. But since losing her old job as an event coordinator, due to a 'slight' error in judgement, she really has had no luck finding anything else and so she might as well help her father out in the meantime.
Since his wife's death in a car accident, a year and a half ago, Tom Murphy has simply maintained an existence. He doesn't know how to handle his teenage daughter, Rachel, and communication isn't one of his strong suits on the best of days. What he can still find some gratification in, is his work as restoration specialist. So when he is approached to restore the old schoolhouse in town to its former glory, he can't wait to get his hands dirty.
At first, Libby finds the contractor her dad has hired rather grouchy, but very swoon-worthy. She enjoys needling him with endless questions, just to see if she can get him to crack a smile. Even though Tom does his best to ignore Libby at first, she is making sure that is quite impossible with her insistent chatter, and he must admit, he secretly enjoys the light flirting. In fact, he is starting to get a kick out of Libby's entire family. Her father is more of a hinder than a help on the project and absolutely clueless when it comes to preparing for a new business, but he is friendly and so enthusiastic, Tom is inevitably drawn to him.
Libby's work on the ice cream parlour has caused her to change her focus in life a bit. She finds she is actually enjoying the small town vibe, and being close to her family, more than she thought she would, and not missing the big city quite as much. Part of that revelation came in the form of a certain 'smouldering' contractor, who could make her stomach do flip flops. Libby was falling......and fast.
Inevitably, the Hamilton family in general, and Libby in particular, draw Tom into their circle and out of his isolation, and suddenly he finds himself starting to enjoy things again. That is.........until the guilt sets in and he questions whether he deserves any of this.
YAY!! Excited to have found another "new" (to me) author, with a writing style that leaves me with a smile on my face!!!
Aside from the main characters, whom I've tried to describe a little (not too much) above, there is one secondary character that absolutely jumped off the pages in this story, and that is Peter Hamilton; Libby's father. He gets a special mention, because he is such an endearing personality. I actually would love to meet him. He cracks me up!
The snippets of trivia Peter sprinkles through the entire book, add an educational and at times hilarious component.....I mumbled (snickering) "did not know that!", more than once.
Anything you might look for in a contemporary romance novel?.....This book has it!
Compelling characters, a touch of drama, crazy family members, complicated relationships, a lot of 'feel good' community, some healthy sex scenes, fabulous humour and a great light romance!!!!!
Being roped into her father's newest questionable undertaking, is not part of Libby Hamilton's plans. No, overseeing the transformation of an old decrepit schoolhouse into an old-fashioned ice cream parlour is a far cry from getting back up on her feet, finding a new job and a place to live. But since losing her old job as an event coordinator, due to a 'slight' error in judgement, she really has had no luck finding anything else and so she might as well help her father out in the meantime.
Since his wife's death in a car accident, a year and a half ago, Tom Murphy has simply maintained an existence. He doesn't know how to handle his teenage daughter, Rachel, and communication isn't one of his strong suits on the best of days. What he can still find some gratification in, is his work as restoration specialist. So when he is approached to restore the old schoolhouse in town to its former glory, he can't wait to get his hands dirty.
At first, Libby finds the contractor her dad has hired rather grouchy, but very swoon-worthy. She enjoys needling him with endless questions, just to see if she can get him to crack a smile. Even though Tom does his best to ignore Libby at first, she is making sure that is quite impossible with her insistent chatter, and he must admit, he secretly enjoys the light flirting. In fact, he is starting to get a kick out of Libby's entire family. Her father is more of a hinder than a help on the project and absolutely clueless when it comes to preparing for a new business, but he is friendly and so enthusiastic, Tom is inevitably drawn to him.
Libby's work on the ice cream parlour has caused her to change her focus in life a bit. She finds she is actually enjoying the small town vibe, and being close to her family, more than she thought she would, and not missing the big city quite as much. Part of that revelation came in the form of a certain 'smouldering' contractor, who could make her stomach do flip flops. Libby was falling......and fast.
Inevitably, the Hamilton family in general, and Libby in particular, draw Tom into their circle and out of his isolation, and suddenly he finds himself starting to enjoy things again. That is.........until the guilt sets in and he questions whether he deserves any of this.
YAY!! Excited to have found another "new" (to me) author, with a writing style that leaves me with a smile on my face!!!
Aside from the main characters, whom I've tried to describe a little (not too much) above, there is one secondary character that absolutely jumped off the pages in this story, and that is Peter Hamilton; Libby's father. He gets a special mention, because he is such an endearing personality. I actually would love to meet him. He cracks me up!
The snippets of trivia Peter sprinkles through the entire book, add an educational and at times hilarious component.....I mumbled (snickering) "did not know that!", more than once.
Anything you might look for in a contemporary romance novel?.....This book has it!
Compelling characters, a touch of drama, crazy family members, complicated relationships, a lot of 'feel good' community, some healthy sex scenes, fabulous humour and a great light romance!!!!!
August 24, 2013
4.5 Stars
The popularity of romantic comedy leads to the term being too loosely applied at times. At its best, romantic comedy is a genre in which the protagonists, realistically drawn adults who are equals in mind, body, and spirit (although not always in social status) meet, engage in quips and ripostes, encounter obstacles (often their own confusion), and ultimately understand that the other is the right person for him/her. Sexual tension may be prevalent, but the relationship is not about sex; it’s about resolving conflicts and moving to a happy union of the lovers. Hold on Your Heart meets these criteria. Hold on My Heart is a romantic comedy with humor, heart, and characters quirky or poignant.
It’s easy to root for Libby and Tom, both engaging, credible characters. Their romance is an appealing blend of sweet and heat with some laugh-out-loud moments and some heart-touching ones. Libby’s family, individually and collectively, are endearing, amusing scene-stealers. Some of my favorite scenes were those involving family interactions. A bridal shop scene with all the Hamilton women is as memorable for its believable sibling interactions ass for its comedy. Brogan’s Crazy Little Thing is a RITA finalist in the Best First Book category, and I think Hold on My Heart is even better. If you like romance that evokes laughter and tears and gives you characters you can believe in, I highly recommend this book.
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2013/06...
The popularity of romantic comedy leads to the term being too loosely applied at times. At its best, romantic comedy is a genre in which the protagonists, realistically drawn adults who are equals in mind, body, and spirit (although not always in social status) meet, engage in quips and ripostes, encounter obstacles (often their own confusion), and ultimately understand that the other is the right person for him/her. Sexual tension may be prevalent, but the relationship is not about sex; it’s about resolving conflicts and moving to a happy union of the lovers. Hold on Your Heart meets these criteria. Hold on My Heart is a romantic comedy with humor, heart, and characters quirky or poignant.
It’s easy to root for Libby and Tom, both engaging, credible characters. Their romance is an appealing blend of sweet and heat with some laugh-out-loud moments and some heart-touching ones. Libby’s family, individually and collectively, are endearing, amusing scene-stealers. Some of my favorite scenes were those involving family interactions. A bridal shop scene with all the Hamilton women is as memorable for its believable sibling interactions ass for its comedy. Brogan’s Crazy Little Thing is a RITA finalist in the Best First Book category, and I think Hold on My Heart is even better. If you like romance that evokes laughter and tears and gives you characters you can believe in, I highly recommend this book.
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2013/06...
August 21, 2025
If you're looking for a book that's just like Crazy Little Thing, this ain't it. And that's not a bad thing at all. Yes, Brogan's trademark humor is here. Yes, she has a cast of wacky characters who are all the more lovable for their eccentricities, but this isn't a romance novel so much as it's a novel about a broken man.
Tom got Connie preggers back in the day when they were young and stupid teenagers. Then a car accident took Connie from him and left him with a sullen teenager, Rachel. Rachel is currently living with her maternal grandparents, and oh-by-the-way, they hate Tom. Make no mistake, this is primarily his story, and I think that works quite well.
Libby, aka Liberty Belle Hamilton, made the mistake of hitting "Reply all" with an inopportune assessment of her boss and now she's been blackballed from the event planning business. Now she's home with her parents and sucked into her history loving father's crazy scheme to renovate an old school house and turn it into an ice cream parlor. Oh, and Tom is the main carpenter/contractor/handy guy on the project.
Sparks fly, but can Libby trust herself? She's just discovered her long time boyfriend is a jerk and she's trying to go back to Chicago. Meanwhile, Tom's definitely attracted to her, but he's got a mountain of guilt and wants to do whatever he can to get his daughter back. How can he choose between his daughter and a woman who makes him finally feel worth living again?
Tom got Connie preggers back in the day when they were young and stupid teenagers. Then a car accident took Connie from him and left him with a sullen teenager, Rachel. Rachel is currently living with her maternal grandparents, and oh-by-the-way, they hate Tom. Make no mistake, this is primarily his story, and I think that works quite well.
Libby, aka Liberty Belle Hamilton, made the mistake of hitting "Reply all" with an inopportune assessment of her boss and now she's been blackballed from the event planning business. Now she's home with her parents and sucked into her history loving father's crazy scheme to renovate an old school house and turn it into an ice cream parlor. Oh, and Tom is the main carpenter/contractor/handy guy on the project.
Sparks fly, but can Libby trust herself? She's just discovered her long time boyfriend is a jerk and she's trying to go back to Chicago. Meanwhile, Tom's definitely attracted to her, but he's got a mountain of guilt and wants to do whatever he can to get his daughter back. How can he choose between his daughter and a woman who makes him finally feel worth living again?
July 23, 2013
4.5 for me. I really liked this book, much more than I thought I would.
It really did have a bit of everything. It was funny, sad, sweet and a bit sexy. The characters were likeable and just as importantly, believable. Tom is a widow and the struggles he went and goes through both before and during the story make me love and root for him. Libby is spunky, cute and even though I don't like her as much as Tom, I think she's good for him and I like them together.
Not only do I enjoy the main characters, but the support characters are just as much fun. Libby's sister Marti and fiancé cracked me up, her dad was one of my favorites and Rachel... Rachel the fifteen year old with attitude? I get it and I understand why she's made the choices she has. The author did a great job with not only character development, but with pacing and handling of sensitive issues as well. I was really happy and glad I took a chance on this new one.
So, if you're looking for a bit of everything, this is a good one to slip in before the summer ends.
It really did have a bit of everything. It was funny, sad, sweet and a bit sexy. The characters were likeable and just as importantly, believable. Tom is a widow and the struggles he went and goes through both before and during the story make me love and root for him. Libby is spunky, cute and even though I don't like her as much as Tom, I think she's good for him and I like them together.
Not only do I enjoy the main characters, but the support characters are just as much fun. Libby's sister Marti and fiancé cracked me up, her dad was one of my favorites and Rachel... Rachel the fifteen year old with attitude? I get it and I understand why she's made the choices she has. The author did a great job with not only character development, but with pacing and handling of sensitive issues as well. I was really happy and glad I took a chance on this new one.
So, if you're looking for a bit of everything, this is a good one to slip in before the summer ends.
June 26, 2013
Just finished this book in a marathon reading session that started at 4 this morning! To say I devoured it would be an understatement - zombies have shown more restraint for eating brains! So when you read a 3rd book by an author it's hard not to compare it to the first two. If Crazy Little Thing was sparkling wine, and Highland Surrender was honey mead, then Hold on my Heart is the full bodied Chianti - the 4 am heartburn is making more sense now, is it not! It's a quieter book with lots of emotion and just the most brilliant little moments, particularly between the fathers and daughters. In fact this book definitely reads like an ode, a love letter, from a daughter to a father. There's plenty of humor and a lot of romantic heat, but unlike CLT where I had to take a break to stretch my core muscles from the laughing, this book had me quietly chuckling, while surreptitiously wiping random bits of debris that kept getting in my eyes.
August 5, 2013
This is my third Tracy Brogan book and I enjoy her style of writing. In some ways this story is a similar concept to her book Crazy Little Thing, with the main female character finding herself back living with her quirky family when she meets a new man, but that is not a bad thing as she writes these stories well. In this book Libby is back in her home town after she loses her job and her boyfriend moves away, but she is determined not to stay. Her father talks her into helping him transform the old schoolhouse into an icecream parlour and it is through this she meets Tom, a widowed restoration specialist struggling with a difficult relationship with his teenage daughter. Neither are looking for a relationship and Libby has no intention of staying in town, but they can't help falling for each other. This is a good story and the two main characters are well written and likeable, I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
September 23, 2013
As contemporary romances go, this one was fairly typical. The premise is one we have seen before. Why do I recommend this book? The beauty of the writing with it's stunning descriptions, witty dialogue and the underlying tone of fun and love. The author took a mundane story and made it come alive. Tracy Brogan brought the funny; not only with her dialogue, but with the quirky cast of characters that make up the main character's families, friends and townspeople. The town itself became a character in the book, and I for one, look forward to more stories set there, definitely a place I could revisit. The book moved along a a fairly even pace and the happily ever after was satisfying. Pick this one up for a nice, gentle read when you are in the mood, that's what I did, and I wasn't disappointed.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2013
Tracy Brogan has a wonderful way of chosing characters and giving them personality and humor. Her witty dialog and banter makes you connect with the characters immediately and puts you right in the scene with the characters for clear visuals and laugh out loud situations. Crazy Little Things will always be one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read. I have recommended this light hearted fun book to many, many friends and those who have read it have shared my thoughts and have told others. Hold On My Heart was not quite on the same par as CLT but it was nonetheless an enjoyable read. I hope Tracy continues to write books of this nature, she has a real talent for giving characters life and humor.
July 1, 2013
I LOVED Tracy Brogan's debut novel Crazy Little Thing, so I was more than ready to see if she could repeat that success. She did. Hold On My Heart isn't as laugh-out-loud funny as CLT, but I found myself grinning broadly most of the way through. Even the heart-wrenching scenes between Tom and his daughter made me smile. Tracy does quite a believable job of working through Tom's grief and guilt over his failures in life and making Libby just the person to pull him through in the end. And the quirky supporting cast is just as lovable as the group in CLT. I can't believe how many unique, yet plausible, personalities she can create. This is a fast-paced, heart-warming read that I highly recommend.
September 3, 2013
I really liked this book, and will read more by the author. It was funny, sad, happy, emotional, and engaging. The characters felt very real to me, and it makes you want to go be a part of Libby's zany family.
In the book Libby, who has suddenly found herself unemployed and newly single, is helping her dad remodel an old schoolhouse into an ice cream parlor. The man they employ to help do the reconstruction, Tom Murphy, is recovering emotionally from an accident that made him a widower with a teenage daughter. H'es busy trying to get his daughter to move back home from her grandparents' house. Unexpectedly (to them) he and Libby fall in love. Wonderful love story. Warning: some bad language, very detailed sex scenes.
In the book Libby, who has suddenly found herself unemployed and newly single, is helping her dad remodel an old schoolhouse into an ice cream parlor. The man they employ to help do the reconstruction, Tom Murphy, is recovering emotionally from an accident that made him a widower with a teenage daughter. H'es busy trying to get his daughter to move back home from her grandparents' house. Unexpectedly (to them) he and Libby fall in love. Wonderful love story. Warning: some bad language, very detailed sex scenes.
February 9, 2015
For having never heard of this author before and taking a chance on her book, this was a pretty decent read! I never felt shortchanged by the length of the story, it flowed very well, and the characters were developed enough that you wanted to care about what happened to them. I loved how flawed Tom was, he pulled off the tortured hero very well. Libby was a strong heroine in her own right, if not a little ditzy sometimes. The supporting characters were funny and just that little bit of off kilter that makes you want to love them, just like real life people. My one complaint is we don't get to know if the new business is a success, but it is a relatively minor one. I would recommend this if you're looking for a quick and entertaining read!
July 14, 2013
A light, breezy feel-good read, perfect for a hot summer day. Libby Hamilton is an out-of-work event planner, who gets roped in to helping her dad turn an old schoolhouse into a vintage ice-cream parlor. Who should she meet but Tom Murphy, widower and handyman, who is working through issues with his teenage daughter and coming to terms with his guilt over the accident that took his wife? Tracy Brogan's trademark voice sparkles in this one. Her writing reminds me of Kristan Higgans in all the best ways. And now I want ice cream. And peach pie. Or perhaps peach pie with ice cream. Minor niggle: On the last page, Libby so should have claimed the rest of that bet (or the female equivalent).
May 30, 2013
In Chapter One, I fell in love with Libby and her Dad as they discussed refurbishing an abandoned building. Chapter by chapter, I fell in love with subsequent characters as they were introduced. Each personality becomes a thread in a quirky tapestry that is better known as "family.". Hearts are broken, laughs are had, a baby is born, meals are consumed. All the while, love lingers in the air. Working through obstacles to mend said broken hearts, this book is a pleasure to read and lends itself quite well to spin-offs of other books, by way of the sisters' story-lines. A nice poolside/beach read for the summer.
June 28, 2013
Hold On My Heart by Tracy Brogan: Libby has lost her job and it looks like she’s losing her boyfriend too. She’s moved back to her parents’ home, away from Chicago, while she is on the job hunt. Life always moves on though, and before Libby knows it she’s helping her father Peter restore an old building into an ice cream parlor. She is definitely not looking to get involved with anyone else, with her relationship on the way out the door, her job situation dire, and her life generally up in the air she’s just trying to find her place.Read More
January 9, 2014
I read this in one night, and no - I didn't sleep! I really enjoyed Crazy Little Thing and had "Hold On My Heart" on my rather extensive "to read" list. One night last week as I fought insomnia, I pulled up my Kindle to seek out something new and light to read, hoping that I could relax enough to fall back asleep.
That isn't what happened. Instead, I was drawn in to the characters and just couldn't pull myself away. I read until the sun came up. I giggled to myself, I cried, and I craved a trip to a small little quaint ice cream shop.
That isn't what happened. Instead, I was drawn in to the characters and just couldn't pull myself away. I read until the sun came up. I giggled to myself, I cried, and I craved a trip to a small little quaint ice cream shop.
July 7, 2013
4.5. I loved Crazy Little Thing, so I gave this one a try. It didn't disappoint. Brogan has a way of making these characters seem so real. Not the typical love at first sight/instant love you get in so many books. This one had a real relationship develop. It was a fun, heartwarming story. I didn't give it a five because i would have liked a bit more than the hint of happily ever after. An epilogue maybe would have wrapped this up nicely. I'll definitely be looking for more from this author.
July 23, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It had so many laugh out loud moments. It was light, fun, the family dynamics were entertaining. There wasn't any unnecessary angst or stupid misunderstandings, the characters were mature about things. Everything was well written, it had a nice flow to it. The humour was subtle not excessive or crude. And just when I thought I had everything figured out I later realized I was wrong. Only thing is I would have liked an epilogue. Highly recommend. Looking forward to reading other books by this author.
July 30, 2013
She does it again!Tracy Brogan creates another great story that intertwines romance and comedy with heart and a little more spice, definitely nice!
Her characters are so down to earth, some quirky, in all you'll definitely enjoy this one. I even cried, which I didn't expect to since I was laughing most of the time, but I was touched in certain scenes. Also I found her spicier scenes were written quite nicely. Bravo, Tracy Brogan! 5 stars because I never expected to cry, but to just laugh and enjoy a great romantic comedy.
Her characters are so down to earth, some quirky, in all you'll definitely enjoy this one. I even cried, which I didn't expect to since I was laughing most of the time, but I was touched in certain scenes. Also I found her spicier scenes were written quite nicely. Bravo, Tracy Brogan! 5 stars because I never expected to cry, but to just laugh and enjoy a great romantic comedy.
September 25, 2013
This my second Tracy Brogan book and love her rom com stuff! Her characters are fun and realistic. Both books were about a thirty something woman starting over, finding humor in life's hang ups and ultimately finding happiness (and not just in a man's loves). This book's ending surprised me because it ended without warning. Don't get me wrong it ended happily but, I could've have read another 200 pages about Libby, Tom, and Rachel and the entire Hamilton family. Tracy, I hope there's a follow up to this one because I have too many questions about what happened next. :)
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