Hold Us Close

Keep Me Still #1.5

by Caisey Quinn

A Keep Me Still Novella

*SPECIAL EDITION AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME FOR THOSE WHO BOUGHT SPECIAL EDITION OF KEEP ME STILL*

Sometimes happily ever after is just the beginning…

High school sweethearts Layla Flaherty and Landen O’Brien are living a fairytale in the heart of Spain. Landen’s professional soccer career is taking off and Layla is finishing her college degree. But when her aunt Kate calls with life changing news, she has to reveal the secret she’s been keeping from everyone.

She’s pregnant. And she’s not sacrificing her child for anything, not even her own life.

Landen has a secret of his own. There’s one thing he never wants to be. Ever.

A father.


NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR:

On November 11th, the Special Edition of Keep Me Still will no longer be available. It will be replaced with the standalone edition.

Readers who have already purchased that version will have the option of uploading the new version at no additional cost. However, some readers have expressed their deep love for that special edition cover. And I have to agree, it is gorgeous. So for those of you who purchased the special edition and would like to keep that cover in your e-reader library, the sequel novella Hold Us Close will be available as a separate free novel for a limited time.

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Novella, Contemporary, College, Contemporary Romance, Sports

123 pages, ebook

First published November 10, 2013

About the author

Caisey Quinn is the bestselling author of more than 15 full-length romance novels, including the traditionally published Neon Dreams and Nashville's Finest series. She lives in a small town in Alabama with her two children.

After two years of self-publishing, her first traditional deal came from Avon/William Morrow (HarperCollins) and was a significant 3-book deal for the Neon Dreams series. She continues to publish independently as well as traditionally.

Caisey is a huge fan of her fellow romance authors and enjoys reading, trying new recipes from Pinterest, and pushing herself to run long distances without passing out. You can find her online as @CaiseyQuinn and www.caiseyquinn.com.

She is represented by Kevan Lyon of the Marsal Lyon Literary agency.

Her latest indie novels, Hot for Her, Hot for Teacher, and The Naughty List are available in Kindle Unlimited.

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Reviews

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

We're family. You are my heart and soul, and your passion for life inspires me to live mine.



Love isn't measured in chances Landen. When you love someone, there isn't a limit.



A happy home full of love and laughter. And patience. And acceptance. And hope

[Chelcie Dacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

6 "Magically, beautiful, amazingly perfect" stars

Hey, Caisey Quinn, yea I'm talking you. What, you can't understand what I'm saying because I'm blubbering like a baby. Well give me a minute to catch my breath

Ok, I think I'm ready. I'm so not ready.

I feel like our relationship is pretty strong. I mean I stalk you and I'm pretty much your fan-girl for life so, I'm going to be 100 percent honest with you. Can you handle that?

At the end of Keep Me Still I felt like everything was going to be ok. But you gave us a sneak peek and I felt

So going into this novella, I knew what was about to go down, but then I was like WTF is happening. I don't like this one bit

Through out this who book, I feel like I have whiplash, and the tears are streaming down my face and I just want my Landen back. I want him to kiss me and I want cherries and Georgia peaches. I just want it all back. I am gutted and I don't know if I like it or if I hate it and these emotions are not sitting well with me. I felt like I was going to explode

But then. all I could do was be happy with you. It was finally happening and I love it. it was perfect

but you can't just leave well enough alone, can you my dear sweet Caisey. You have to continue to fuck with my head and all Tim McGraw was playing on repeat in my head and I couldn't get him to shut the fuck up. It was maddening.

But like every other brilliant masterpiece that comes out of that brain of yours, the ending was perfect and I love you even more for it. You held my heart the entire time and I think you should hold on to it until you release Girl in love.

and some of this:

and finally I was like BAM NAILED IT.

[Elizabeth Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

My response to Landen...

[Meet_Re · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hey you...yeah you mrs.Quinn. I dont care if it doesn't make sense, or just happen in the fairy tales, but dont you dare, dont you ever dare make my girl Layla dying and my boy Landen let her leave, no way...
Dont hear people who say this story wont happen in reality..just make sure they have a happy ending, pretty please...with cherry on top.

[Dora Koutsoukou · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 💔💔💔🌟s

A tough, intense and severe read.
Although there were glimpses of Landen’s anger issues, in this book he had transformed into a completely different person.
Layla and Landen had very harsh obstacles to overcome, always with the hope to find their HEA.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!!!!!!!




Love LOVE LOVED this! I had been looking forward to this novella sequel for what seemed like foreverrrr... and it was just more than I could have asked for... ABSOFREAKING BEAUTIFUL!!! Landen and Layla are one of the sweetest most memorable couples I've ever read ....

THANK YOU CAISEY QUINN for giving us such an incredible story!!!

[[~Ami~]♥Sexy Dexy♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars



Keep me Still ended nicely but the sneak peak into the follow on novella was cruel!!! I couldn't stop thinking about getting round to this book.

Layla and Landen are dealing with a huge bombshell that can either make or break the couple. Everything about this short novella was necessary for Landen to deal with his pasts and come out stronger together as a couple.

But maybe, just maybe, I can be the water that washes over him and smoothes those rough edges

I love Layla for her strong decision making and I love Landen for his inner turmoil over the situation. The love they have for each other was so sweet.

As long as you keep trying, I will keep loving you. I don't even know if I could stop

There isn't anything I didn't like about this so it is getting the 5 stars. I would recommend this book for those who like New Adult with likeable broken characters and a fast pace storyline. x

ARC provided by the Author
Quotes subject to change

[AJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

And that is exactly the case for me with this book. It’s beautifully written, it’s emotional, it’s deep and meaningful, and the characters come through their struggles showing tremendous strength and a stronger love than ever! I just didn’t want to have to watch all of the drama happen.

Starting three years after the ending of Keep Me Still, we find Layla and Landen happily living their dream in Spain. However, everything very quickly falls to pieces along with the arrival of some surprising news which pushes Landen over the edge, triggering a devastating downfall for our beloved hero.

Oh my poor Landen! It was like a switch had been flicked and he was a completely different person to the boy/man that I fell in love with! This is a guy who has been absolutely perfect through two books, I absolutely ADORE him! And then all of the sudden he's developed a huge anger management problem - he's violent, he's closed off, he flies into rages, and he's just not the same guy!. We still see the beautifully loving Landen underneath, and I could see his torment and I understood it, but I thought it was such a horrible thing to put him through, I thought the whole thing was completely unnecessary. Layla and Landen have both already overcome horribly traumatic circumstances just to function in everyday life, let alone be together, and they still have more hard times coming, this on top of it all just seemed like overkill.

I am a huge fan of the first two books in this series – Let You Leave and Keep Me Still, and it’s not that I thought that this was a bad book, I just didn’t want to see this happen to characters that I deeply care about. It’s utterly heartbreaking for both of them, and I just didn’t want to read about them going through something like that, they've been through enough.

We do get a beautifully happy ending at the end of it all, and an epilogue set a further 5 years into the future which, again, is bittersweet with Landen having his dream career snatched away from him so soon… again, I think this was in there to show him conquering his demons, but come on! Give the guy a break!. But as much as I liked the opportunity to see where these characters ended up, I think I would have preferred to just use my imagination. And sadly for me, this is going to have to fall into the category of I’m going to try and forget that most of this book actually happened.

So yeah, a beautifully written book, with some incredible character development and all of the heart and emotion that I have come to expect from Caisey Quinn, it was just a little bit much for me.

3.5 stars.

(rated up for Landen's letter included at the end)

[Laurenj · Rating 3 out of 5]

* SPOILER ALERT*

IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THIS BOOK, DO NOT CONTINUE READING.

I rate this novel an overall of 3 stars. I liked this book, it was sweet and lovely. I love Landen and Layla's relationship throughout the book, how they remained to loyal and patient to each other.
I also love how at the end, Landen's 'father' and him were talking again, and he changed to be a decent man.
Everything was going really well, Layla's baby being born, Layla's surgery being sucessful, Landen and Layla getting married... But then in the epilogue, it starts of really sweet with Hope running into Landen's arms but then it all goes downhill....

We learnt that Landen and an incident and he is no longer able to play soccer for the rest of his life. I found this really upsetting and necessary,because throughout the whole book sequel, Landen had a big passion for soccer, and we always have seen him as a soccer player. So at the end when Caisey Quinn somehow decides to take it all away from him, it really, for me, ruins the whole series. I don't see any reason why the author took away his successful career from him and it is just so sad this terrible thing happened to end a good series. (it WOULD be good).

Anyways, i would still LOVE to read more of Landen and Layla novellas in future, perhaps one with Landen getting better and getting his career back? :)

[Sera · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can't rate this book any higher than 2/5 stars.

I enjoyed the story of Layla and Landen up until this book. It isn't badly written or in itself a horibble story and it wraps up the story for the most part.

However, I really hated the complete 180 in this book. I'd really come to like Landen in the previous books. Sure, the whole 'I came because your aunt payed me'-thing from the last book was already a little horrible, but it this book the author managed to completely change his character. He went from a sweet romantic guy to an abusive a-hole who I didn't even liked to read about and then he even ends up hitting his pregnant girlfriend, wants her to have an abortion, break pretty much everything that means something to layla and then even in the end, she has to fight for HIM. It's just ridicilous. Combine that with the fall of his dream in the end and I just kind of wish I'd followed other reviewers and hadn't bothered with this book. What a way to ruin a series that could've been really nice.

[M · Rating 3 out of 5]

Why oh why?
Why so many authors after publishing a successful book going for the second or third, when they actually have nothing special to say?
Yeah as a reader I liked Layla and Landen story! The first book was good!
Just I don't think dragging something without a good plot is a wise thing!
For God sake Authors! stop ruining your characters through forced stories!!
I don't know ...there were so many people that gave this book 5 stars, so maybe it just wasn't my thing!!
But I am sure as hell I won't open another second or third book of a series, if I am not certain that they are created at least as good as the first one!
And I am unfortunately start to doubt about Goodreads' reviews and ratings overall!

Ok ! I know...I was a little harsh for my own taste! It is just that I was really frustrated over reading a book that got 4.45 out of 5 and then realize that it really doesn't deserve more than 3 !

[Anne OK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caisey Quinn has fast become a auto-buy author for me. I've read all her books to date and can't wait for the next. Her stories are refreshingly different, fun-to-read, and full of sizzling chemistry. Just when I think her stories can't get more addictive, she shifts into overdrive and creates another unforgettable and beautifully crafted addition to her already memorable releases.

If you haven't read Caisey Quinn's books, you're missing out on some exceptional reading.

[Eme · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 STARS!

“You don’t measure love in the number of chances you’re willing to give someone. Love doesn’t run out of chances.”

I'm very anxious to read this book! I dont want to let go of the characters and the story. I'm nervous something will happen to tore Layla and Landon apart. Well there are a lot of drama and struggles but it didnt break them. Their love and devotion to one another grew stronger and stronger. No matter what they faced, that one thing remained the same. They conquered their own fears together and work with their own issues. Its rare to read about a love like that. Strong. Compelling. Pure. Real. The epilogue really got me and won me over! Gosh i'm sucker of 'and-they-lived-happily-ever-afters-one-big-happy-family! It was such a great conclusion to a great love story!!

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC was provided by the Author in exchange for a honest review**

5 stars is just no where near enough for this novella. I love Landen and Layla. Full review to come closer to release date.

[Jo - •.★Reading Is My Bliss★.• · Rating 3 out of 5]

The final part of Laylan and Landen's story is set in Spain.

Landen has taken up and offer to play football here and Layla is studying. They really enjoy their life here.

When Layla's Aunt phones with some incredible news that could be life changing for them all, Layla has some of her own.

All of this seems to send Landen into a downward spiral and to be honest, most of his behaviour was unforgivable in my mind. He really starts to unravel and hurts other people along the way.

Landen seeks answers to his past as he genuinely wants to figure out why he is the way he is and what he finds out is not what he was expecting.

If he is to be the person that Layla needs, he is going to have to face his past and get the help he needs to become the person she deserves.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

First thank you to Caisey Quinn for giving me an ARC of Hold Us Close and here is my honest review.

Oh. Lordy! This book was fan-freakin-tastic!

This is the continuation of Landen and Layla’s story, and WOW what a story it is. I absolutely fell head over heels in love with Landen in Keep Me Still while Layla completely amazed me. However, Landen and Layla together captured my heart entirely in KMS to the point where I didn’t think that I could love them even more but Hold Us Close made my heart fall even more in love with them.
Hold Us Close shows how perfect Landen and Layla really are for each other, that they truly are soulmates. In KMS we are put in a situation where Landen is Layla’s rock and becomes her strength for the troubles that she is faced with. In HUC gives us the other half of their relationship by showing that Layla can be the strength that Landen needs when his life is spiraling out of control. Their relationship becomes stronger through the difficult situations that they are faced with and are able to work through together. They are each other’s strength and support throughout HUC.
They do go through their share of troubles, tough situations, and surprises in HUC. Right from the very beginning they run in to a situation that puts their strength and faith in each to the test. I don’t want to give anything away but I will say this, Layla showed her strength in KMS but in HUC she became someone that I would want when the going gets tough. She becomes the strength for herself and for Landen when their world gets the unexpected surprises and twists. Both of these characters are very strong people that will hold you captivated throughout HUC.
I may have said this before but it must be said over and over, Caisey Quinn is a genius and most certainly knows how to write in order to pull at your heartstrings. HUC will surpass any expectations that any reader has and is written in such detail that the reader will be captured into the story seeing both Layla and Landen’s point of views. The writing flows easily and, to me, is a key component in being captured in the story. HUC isn’t rushed as some characters’ second stories sometimes are, Mrs. Quinn gives us a glimpse into their lives after HUC is finished and she also gives us a rundown of how they get to that point in their life.
Hold Us Close will have you feel every emotion because I was. I laughed, cried, got angry, sad, and even had me blush (let me just say cherries may be involved). Hold Us Close is a definite, must read but is also one that you will want to reread over and over again.

[Lauren at Live Read and Breathe Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the sneak peak in Keep Me Still I've been dying to find out what happens with Layla and Landen.

After thinking that Landen is the perfect mate I was heartbroken to find out he was not perfect and had many angry demons plaguing him which were brought to the forefront with Layla's new announcement.

For Layla she now has something to look forward to besides being consumed about her health and the daily element of 'what if'.

Landen is faced with a reality that causes him not to cope and he's has to try and make it right or otherwise he takes the chance of losing the one thing he wants in the world...Layla.

Layla's patience and love is so sweet and powerful that it gives you nothing but hope for her well deserved HEA.

I love Caisey Quinn. She captures the emotion, heartache, angst and beauty of her characters that you feel all their emotions and are routing for them the whole way. Your heart goes out to both Layla and Landen when they're faced with their demons trying to find their happiness together.

This series is such a beautifully profound experience about hope, second chances and unconditional love.

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[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Landen and Layla are thrown some def tough obstacles and we get some answers and some resolve. I don't want to give the story away, but if I'm going to review I have to so beware!

Layla's aunt was able to put Layla on the waiting list to get her brain surgery, but Layla is unable to get the surgery because she is pregnant. Yay! How fun! Well not according to Landen! I totally did not see that reaction coming from him!! I figured since he had a crappy home life he'd like a chance at doing things right. Well...he flew off the handle. He doesn't want to be a dad...he doesn't want a family..and Layla is heartbroken...and honestly so was I! Landen's anger issues just kept escalating. Finally, he checked himself into a facility to help his anger. Unfortunately, he's not cured, but is managing it. Once he went to the facility, things progressed and he was getting excited about being a dad. He also was able to make up with the Colonel.

[Nellie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved the story line, hated the F-bombs and sex scenes. WAY too much cussing, and really didn't fit into most of the sentences. Very distracting. The story was so great, and I thought it was well written. I loved the characters. Very identifiable for me. I would LOVE to read more from this author IF it was cleaner. Too much for me, and It's a shame, because I really thought it was a great book outside of that.
I would give it 4 stars if the cussing and sex scenes were edited out for me. It really was a good story, but seriously...so many F-bombs it was too distracting.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

PERFECT. Sweet, sweet closure & sweet, sweet love<3

I'll review soon:-)

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

O.M.G everyone needs to bump this book to your next in line! So good. Dear Lord this book made me cry. So good.

[Nancy The book junkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review coming soon!

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Perhaps some slight spoilers.
Genre: contemporary romance
Characters: Landen, star soccer player, suffering from anger issues because of his abusive childhood. Layla, who is determined to love him no matter what.
Style: alternating POV's.
My thoughts: I wanted to like this story. I wanted to enjoy the continuation of their love story. I wanted to be happy that they were having a baby. But instead, I found myself not liking Landen's character. While I found myself sympathetic to his history, I couldn't agree with his behaviors. And when he kept apologizing, I just kept thinking that it was the beginning of an abusive relationship, which is not at all where I wanted their love to head. Sure, it ends on a more upbeat note. And I think it reflects what perhaps dealing with real-life anger issues can be. But I guess I wanted to escape from reality in a happy, rooting-for-their-love type of way, and not be thinking that she should probably be leaving him for her and the baby's safety.

[Angelina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautiful story. heartbreakingly beautiful. The drama and shits both characters are facing. The decisions and choices. Landen dealing with his fears and Layla being the understanding ones. I really love both characters. If you haven't read the first book well you should!!. This is a fast read and it ends beautifully. :)

“Love isn't measured in chances, Landen. When you love someone, there isn't a limit. As long as you keep trying, I will keep loving you. I don't know if I could stop.”

[Sofia Lazaridou · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the Layla from keep me still. I thought that she was colder and less detached. Or started seeing differently. I felt as if she has lost a part of herself and a little of her faith in Landen.

I disliked a part of the story. I am sure if Landen has that many issues in the previous book(s) or they came on the surface later. He seemed to be getting worse and things eventually got out of control. Layla is better. She is almost fixed. So now is the time to fix Landen.

[Laura Shellhorn]

Am I the only one afraid that she is gonna kill Layla off?

[Jln · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~~4.5 stars~~~ and a spot on the favorites shelf:) Loved Landon's letter and the epilogue.

[Raj · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely! What a happy Ending!

[Ellelou · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caisey did it again. All these emotions. And just bam, fucking killed it!!! Beyond loved it