Hold Me Until Morning

Time River #4

by A.L. Jackson

I should have known I’d be playing with fire when I found the sexy as hell woman moving in next door...

It was pouring rain, so I figured the neighborly thing to do would be to lend a hand.

I nearly dropped to my knees when I realized who she was.

Hailey Wagner.

It’s been six years since I’ve seen her, and she’s always been the one person on earth who is off-limits.

My past sins I’ve kept like an ugly secret made sure of that.

Too bad this single mom with soulful eyes still makes my pulse speed the way it did back then, and I soon find our chemistry is just as strong.

When I find her ex threatening her, I insist on staying with Hailey and her little girl until I’m sure they’re safe.

I thought I could handle being under her roof. Only the tension between us strains, and with one forbidden kiss, all restraint is lost. We collide in a lightning bolt of greed, the two of us locked behind her door night after night.

Falling so hard I know there will be no coming back from it.

But being with Hailey exposes the past I’ve been trying to hide, and I’ll do anything to protect her from it. Because if I don’t? We’re both going to pay the consequences…

Genres: Romance, Second Chance, Small Town Romance, Romantic Suspense, Forced Proximity, Suspense, Audiobook

444 pages, Paperback

Published July 1, 2024

About the author

A.L. Jackson is the New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary romance. She writes emotional, sexy, heart-filled stories about boys who usually like to be a little bit bad.

Her bestselling series include THE REGRET SERIES, CLOSER TO YOU, BLEEDING STARS, FIGHT FOR ME, CONFESSIONS OF THE HEART, FALLING STARS, REDEMPTION HILLS, TIME RIVER, and MOONLIT RIDGE novels. Start your binge with the first book in her latest series, From Here to Eternity! A broody single dad, a heroine on the run, and all the steam and suspense!

If she’s not writing, you can find her hanging out by the pool with her family, sipping cocktails with her friends, or of course with her nose buried in a book.

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Reviews

[Kealyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold Me Until Morning by A.J. Jackson

5/5 stars

Hold Me Until Morning is a beautiful contemporary romance. With two great main characters. Hailey is strong, kind and so incredibly fierce. And Cody is loyal, protective and has so much love to give. I love this book from start to finish. It has a nice and gentle flow while enough happens to keep you sucked into the story. 

In chapter one we see Cody coming home. His new neighbour just moved in and he sees her struggle in a heavy thunderstorm. He walks over and helps her out. It's dark and rainy and he doesn't see her face all that well. But once he does he is flabbergasted. It's Hailey, the woman he was drawn to in his early twenties. Hailey is standoffish and he quickly goes home. 

But they also ogled each other and their eyes constantly gravitate toward each other. They even work at the same place. So those feelings and that yearning longing only intensifies day after day. 

Do you think I can't feel it? The way every molecule in your body reacts when I get close? Don't fool yourself, Shortcake.

And while Cody was a one and done kind of man. He feels oddly protective of Hailey and he wants to claim her completely.

It came at me from out of nowhere, catching me so off guard that he clocked me in the mouth. That wasn't what bothered me, though.
The problem I had? He'd caught Hailey in the jaw with his elbow when he'd done it. I fucking snapped.

But Hailey puts down clear boundaries. Friends and nothing else. And Cody agrees to that pact. Because Hailey has a beautiful four year old daughter, Maddie, she needs to protect.

"You should probably stop looking at me that way if you want to remain friends, Hailey."

But Cody quickly finds out that Hailey moved here for a reason. Her estranged husband is after her. She left him three months ago after she found out about his nefarious business. But he doesn't take no for an answer. Pruitt, the ex, thinks he has a claim on her. And he demands that she and his daughter return to him and fall in line again. Hailey warns Cody away from Pruitt. He is dangerous. But that doesn't deter Cody. 

"I'm going to protect you, Hailey. You and Maddie. I won't let that bastard get near you. Whatever it takes. I promise you that."

He fearlessly shows Pruitt that Hailey is now his and his alone.

"Do you trust me?" I muttered, a secret between us. Hailey hesitated for only one second before she gave. "Yes."

I also LOVED Lolly. Lolly is Hailey's grandmother and lives with her at the new house. She is free spirit and hated Pruitt since day one. She encourages her granddaughter to get back into the world and enjoy it. She is also an amazing great-grandmother to Maddie. And I just love how she accepts Cody and how she pushes Cody and Hailey together. I grinned several times when I read the chapters she was in. And nothing goes past this clever minded grandma.

"Oh, I doubt it was just. It sounded like a whole lot of something to me."
A pencilled-in brow arched toward the ceiling as she sent me a challenge, daring me to deny it. Well, shit, this woman wasn't about to tiptoe. She was just laying it out.

I love the chemistry between Cody and Maddie. They were so hot and strong together. I love how they support and encourage each other. I adore how much Cody loves Maddie. And how he puts Maddie first every single time. How he remembers everything the little girl says. Their family life is the heart of this amazing novel.

I stroked him once again as I moved to straddle him, my palm gliding down his smooth flesh. Surprise rasped up his throat, and his hands shot to my waist.
"Shortcake." His voice shook with the warning. Dark and low.

But Pruitt doesn't give up. And who else is involved with him? Things don't make sense and grow darker the farther the book progresses.

I also loved the flashbacks into the past. And Brooke's character arc broke me into a million pieces.

Cody and Hailey stole my heart and their book is amazing and so utterly addictive. 

Cody angled just right, and his mouth went to my ear, his words gruff and low. "You're mine, Hailey Wagner."

5 huge stars from me for this gorgeous contemporary romance novel! 

[Hope · Rating 1 out of 5]

** Not for me


H is a manwhore and a walking std. I'll admit, i love a redemption arc but my god, he was sleeping with every women in his vicinity the first time he met h years ago till now.


Cockily states he hasn't had sex in a week and his friend reminds him of the girl he went home with two days ago and he replies 'yeah, not that memorable'.


And where he tells his sister he's running out of options for women in the bar cause he slept with them all. Gross


He even slept with h's best friend, chalked it upto a mistake and then did the 'mistake' two more times, had a full on fling leading her on ( in his own words) all the while he had feelings for h. What a joke

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series has been so solid and I really enjoyed this one! The heroine is a single mom and back in town, and she has a bit of a history with her neighbor, who doesn't recognize her at first. She wants nothing to do with him, but they have to be around each other at work and they live next to each other...

This was a great single mom romance and, even though the hero is definitely a player, I really liked his relationship with her daughter and how he fell for the family and was very protective of them!

[A.L. Jackson]

HOLD ME UNTIL MORNING IS AVAILABLE NOW!



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[glavreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

this story sucked me right in and i loved it!

hailey and cody knew each other years ago when he worked on her father’s ranch but when he gets involved in something shady to help his struggling family, he has to leave for good. untilllll, hailey moves into the rental next door with her daughter and just so happens to start working at the ranch he’s developing. when her dangerous ex starts prowling around, cody decides they’ve had enough time apart and moves himself in.

i don’t know what you’d consider this subgenre, not motorcycle club but maybe suspense-y, gritty, small town romance? idk but it is really fun to read and this one was no exception. cody was so obsessed with her and was so flirty and funny while also being so protective and sweet to her and her daughter. also the plot twist reallllyyyyyy got me!

[Jodi - JodiReadsnListens · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Audio Review ✨
Yes, cocky cowboy! Hold Me Until Morning by A.L. Jackson was an emotional small town romance with the perfect touch of suspense and spice. Jackson always knows how to create memorable characters with memorable moments that will squeeze your heart, and stick with you long after you finish the story. Hailey and Cody’s romance had me consumed from start to finish.

Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter perform this audiobook in dual narration. This is the first time I’ve heard these two paired together, and they both fully embodied Hailey and Cody. Erin’s soft, vibrant tone captured Hailey’s passionate and devoted mama bear- loving persona perfectly as she did what was best for her family. Stephen’s deep soothing voice encompassed Cody’s loyal and protective demeanor which simply made him irresistible. (Swoon!) Both narrators were spot on creating the undeniable steamy chemistry between Hailey and Cody too.

Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of a small town romance with a hunky cocky cowboy landscaper, a hardworking stable manager, neighbors to lovers, an adorable little girl, play houses, a sassy selfless grandmother, dangerous past, second chances, possessive ex, horses, strawberry shortcake, starting over, all the steamy times, devoted friends, risking it all for love, and a HEA that will hold onto your heart, then you love Hailey and Cody’s story. I always look forward to more from A.L. Jackson.

[Katie Beasley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a WONDERFUL ending to this series! I am loving me some romantic suspense, and AL Jackson has done an excellent job in all of these tales. I do have to say that Time River does not seem the safest place for women LOL. Cody and Hailey were PERFECT. I loved their back story. I loved how they reconnected and how much they fought their chemistry. It really is something to witness a playboy change his stripes. And Cody was pretty epic. He had always been the guy that had no roots with women. He couldn't do it until he saw Hailey again. Then without realizing it, he stopped being interested in other women. It was only her. And then we have Hailey who was SO strong. She has been through so much. Her focus is her daughter and that's it. Watching these two collide was perfect! Their spicy scenes were SPICY! Holy freak Cody has a dirty mouth. I love how once Cody knew what he wanted he never looked back. He became a part of Hailey's little fam and was willing to do whatever to protect them.

Hailey is kind of on the run, but at least she has a safe place to land. She will be working with her dad again doing what she loves being around horses. She has to focus on saving and building her life and her daughter's life back up. She has to now that she can do this on her own. She doesn't have time for anything else. But then she sees HIM again. And wow does he look even better than she remembered. The boy who flirted with her for a whole summer while he worked at her dad's ranch. The man who is now her neighbor. Cody. She finds herself being pulled and drawn to him but has to ignore it. She just got out of a terrible relationship and doesn't even know if the other guy is completely out of the picture. Yet Cody is now also working at her dad's ranch. He is everywhere. So she decides one night. They can explore this thing between them for one night and one night only. But the taste is not enough. Now they are doing this. He is sleeping on their couch because weird things have been happening around their house. Hailey knows it's her ex. He won't let her go. She knows too much. She doesn't want to loop Cody in to protect him. So makes her stand so that her and Cody can have a life together. She just hopes she isn't too late.

Cody has just landed a major deal for his business. He feels like he is on top of the world. He is ready to go out and celebrate and maybe bring a rando home but then he sees her. She is moving in next door. Hailey. From that summer all those years ago. She was stunning then but now she is just gorgeous. He doesn't know what to think because now all he can think about is her. He is drawn to her like he has never been drawn to a woman. He is trying to respect her space but also can see that she wants him. So he patiently waits and when she agrees, all bets are off. She may think this is a one night thing but he knows that he wants more. So much more. All the while, weird things are happening to her. Her ex won't leave her alone. He knows she isn't telling him everything. He just doesn't know what else he can do. And then she makes the decision for him and he hopes he can get to her in time. Because she is walking into the lion's den without the whole story.

Like I said, this was a wonderful conclusion to this series. I am sad to see it be over but so glad that I was able to see all of these characters have their HEAs with each other. Maybe we will get a second gen series- who knows!! If you haven't picked up this series, it is a definite recommend from me.

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back to Time River we go! Cody and Hailey are here to steal your heart, but will they find an HEA or will the past reach up and swallow them whole?

AL Jackson tells another sweeping romance. This time about a jaded single mom and a cocky cowboy who once broke her heart. Hailey is back in town with her young daughter and she finally has her dream job. The only thing she didn't count on was that her teenage crush is now her next door neighbor AND works with her. He's tempting and flirty and everything she doesn't need in her life.

Cody has always seen Hailey as off limits and he shouldn't see her has anything else now. Only... she's now next door every day. Living and breathing and firing him up. Fueling his dreams and dampening his fantasies.. if you catch my drift. ;) She's so fierce and pushes him without a second thought. He can't help but be drawn in.

They both should stay away. But all they long for is in each others arms, if they can be brave enough to reach for it.

I was a bit underwhelmed by the extreme horniness of Cody. I get a bit tired of him fixating on certain body parts at EVERY LOOK he takes at Hailey. It soured me on him off the jump and it took awhile for me to be won over again. It got grating the amount of times he noticed her assets. I know she is a curvy, gorgeous woman. Plus sized bodies have other attributes... but, moving on.

This was another beautifully written, sweeping romance from AL Jackson. The audiobook was lovingly performed by Stephen Dexter and Erin Mallon. Jackson's lyrical writing rolls off their tongues and draws you into the tale. I am always lost in one of her tales.

I can't wait to see where we go to next!

4 stars
4 on the spice scale

CW: Abusive relationships

*Thank you to Valentine PR and the author for an ALC/ARC of this title.*

[Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️

Full RTC

Audiobook was amazing — thank you A.L. Jackson for the ALC & ARC! Narrators: Erin Mallon & Stephen Dexter

Tropes:
- Small Town
- Single Mom
- Romantic Suspense
- Refomed Playboy
- Workplace Romance
- Neighbors
- Forced Proximity
- Second Chance
- He Falls First

[Alba and Her Secrets..♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 'You got me' Stars!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.


A.L. Jackson has definitely saved the best for last in the Time River series! I didn’t expect to fall so hard for Cody and Hailey but Amy is always ready to surprise us and she sure did it with a bang this time. I am always sad to say goodbye to stories and characters that I loved but this was the best way to do it: with a passionate and enthralling love story and a beautiful ending for the whole crew of characters we have grown to love.

So, Hold Me Until Morning is the fourth and final installment in this series and this one is all about Cody Cooper (Dakota’s brother and Ryder’s best friend) and Hailey Wagner, a woman from Cody’s past that left a mark on his journey. Hailey is going through a difficult divorce, she is decided to start anew and give a good and safe life to her adorable daughter Maddie. But things start getting complicated when she discovers her next door neighbor is none other than the guy she had a crush on years ago. Together with Cody, they are both much affected by their pasts and experiences. But their connection is as strong as it was back then and, while they will be obstacles on the way, their chemistry is too intense to ignore.

I had to stay away from her.
Problem was, I was terrified there was something about her that promised I couldn’t.

I devoured this thing. That only happens when I am so into the book that I cannot, for the life of me, stop reading. I read this in less than a day and that’s because the premise and development of this story had me at the edge of my seat in every single page. Also, Cody and Hailey have such a especial connection. I do love the second chance feel that Hold Me Until Morning has, that one is definitely one of my top favorite troupes. Moreover, a playboy who finally falls hard for the heroine and her daughter? Oh yeah, I am into it! Mix some drama and suspense, more moments with beloved secondary characters, a couple with a whole lot of chemistry and the love that just shows in the pages of this book and you get this wonderful novel. I just fell so hard for Cody, Hailey and Maddie and I am so happy they finally got their much deserved happy ending. Even though it had hurdles and some very sad parts mixed in too.

“Fight against the chains. Fight against what’s cruel and wrong. Just don’t fight against the things that might bring you joy.”

Therefore, I am rating Hold Me Until Morning with 5 STARS because A.L. Jackson has given us the perfect end to the Time River series with this last installment. It had everything I love about Amy’s writing and characters, she definitely didn’t disappoint. I loved this couple, their love story, their burning chemistry, the feels, the familiarity, the scenes with the rest of the crew. I just loved EVERYTHING. It was the best way to end this series because it made me fall in love even more with all these characters. If you haven’t read these books yet, don’t wait any longer and make sure you check the Time River series out!

[TJ *Book Twins Reviews* · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Queen of sexy single parent romance has done it again! Hold Me Until Morning is utter perfection!

I knew by the third chapter this book was going to steal my heart. Here’s what I loved:

First and foremost, ALJackson’s signature prose and gorgeously written prose will forever be one of my favorite things.

The no filter cocky cowboy who swore off love falls first. And boy does he fall hard! He has secrets and a past, but he’s also a protector through and through. Once he gets involved, he will stop at nothing to take care of those in his life

It features a sweet but sassy single mom and the cutest little girl ever. Cute kids are my absolutely my kryptonite.

The busybody grandmother microtrope is it for me!

Their history and undeniable chemistry led to some exciting steamy scenes.

Here are the Tropes:
Single mom
Opposite sides of the track
Small town
Close proximity
Workplace
Touch her die

A.L.Jackson has long been a favorite author if mine. I simply can’t get enough of her beautifully written stories. Highly recommended!

[Lover of Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.

Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️🦸🏻‍♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨✨

You want to know what I feel like right now, Hailey? I feel like a king who’s just been offered the greatest treasure.”

First Impressions
Hold Me Until Morning was a book that completely BLEW MY HEART AND SOUL away! In fact, this is the best book of the series and I will die on this hill. I haven't read this author's other work but I do think its some of her best work. It worked in every way for me and I couldn't put it down (both the kindle and Audio editions) This author really knocked this book out of the park. I had some issues with some of the other books in the series, but Hold Me Until Morning was just perfection for me. I honestly didn't have issues with any part of this book, it just worked all the way and I read it right when I needed to.

First Line
My eyes devoured the outline of his perfect shape.

The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Cody
The Heroine: Hailey

My stupid heart smashed. But in that moment, I didn’t care. I wanted it. I wanted it all. I wanted to be selfish and take and take. I wanted to feel something brighter than I’d felt in years. In so long. In ever.

Summary
Hold Me Until Morning begins with Hailey who has a young daughter, and is on the run from a dangerous ex. She is determined to create a life with her daughter which is safe and full of happiness and not the nightmare that they came from. Her next door neighbor, is none other than the boy who broke her heart and hurt her in the worst of ways and he doesn't even recognize her at first. She is focused on her daughter and not creating anything with this cocky man. But there are secrets that he keeps hidden beneath the cocky playboy act. As Hailey and Cody learn to let go of their tough barriers, they rediscover their love that was always there just needed air to breathe. But they have enemies, enemies that they least expect....will they survive the coming turmoil about to enter their lives?

“I hate him, Hailey. Hate that that bastard could ever make you feel that way. I want to destroy him just for the fact that he would ever try to tamp or trap the beauty that you are. I would never fucking do that. Would never hurt you. Would never use you. Would never think of you as any less than the fiery, sassy, strong, unforgettable woman that you are.”

What I Loved
What was it about this book that just worked for me in every way? It was like catnip to my inner feline. I gobbled it up like candy. The conflict in the relationship gets resolved earlier, and the focus is outer conflict of the story which I was really fascinated by. The author really built the suspense side of the plot just right and we really see how that is delicately built throughout the story. The romance that is developed is beyond entertaining. I love a good cocky playboy hero and Cody ENTERTAINED the hell out of the story for me. They are my weakness I swear. I know some readers don't care for this type of hero, but I feel like he just worked right for Hailey. I think she needed someone more playful and pushing her to take some risk but she is so focused on her daughter and being safe, that he teaches her how to truly live every moment. We also see some flashbacks that really add depth to their relationship and what both Cody and Hailey had to go through when they were younger. My heart just bled for Cody especially, with everything he had to give up for a while because he was protecting his mother and sisters and took on the "man of the house" role with his father dying at such a young age. I just wanted to hug this young Cody who was so responsible and sacrificed so much for those he loved.

“Hold me until morning,” I whispered there, to that clock frozen at eight-seventeen. He brushed his lips across my forehead and held me tighter. “Don’t worry, darlin’. I’m not going to let go.”

What I Struggled With
Honestly.....nothing lol I don't understand readers issue with this book, maybe it wasn't inner angsty enough but it knocked my feet off the ground!

“You don’t get it, Hailey. Getting to be in your space is enough reward for me. Getting to stand for you is a prize. A fucking honor.”

Narration
Like with the other books in the series, the narrator really handled this book just right. This author has very lyrical writing and it really comes out beautifully in narration form. In fact, if you like audiobooks, I can't recommend the narration enough.

“You want to run, Hailey? Then I’ll run with you. You want to fight? Then I’ll fight for you. But what I’m not willing to do is let you go. Not when you’re doing it out of fear.”

Overall View
Hold Me Until Morning is a romantic small town thriller that will curl your toes with delicious swoons and keep you on edge with the plot twists and characters that will endear to your heart for a long time.

“I’ve made a million mistakes in my life, but standing here, with you? For you? That’s not one of them. Because when you love someone the way I love you? You don’t bail when things get rough. You stand closer to them in their battles. You pick them up when they fall. You carry them when they can’t run. You love them with all you’ve got because they are the very meaning of time. Because you and Maddie are the reason I’m living it. You are the sun setting and the sun rising. Every minute. Every second. Every fucking beat.”


Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Playboy/Manwhore, Tortured Hero, Single Mom
Themes: Small Town, Tear Jerker, Kids/Teens, Danger/Suspense, Heart/Touching
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Second Chance Love

Book Perspective
Duo POV

Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Blend but more plot than relationship

If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Jennifer Ryan
Catherine Cowles
Corinne Michaels

Song This Book Inspires
The Scientist by Corinne Bailey Rae

Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes

Steam/Spice Explanations

Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.

Narrators:
Stephen Dexter
Erin Mallon

[Christi (christireadsalot) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hold Me Until Morning is a small town, single mom, he falls first, neighbors to lovers, workplace romance! This is an interconnected standalone part of the Time River series which I’ve loved so much.

It’s been six years since they’ve seen one another but now they’re neighbors! Hailey is a single mom to her four year-old daughter who has returned back home after being on the run from an ex. She’s the new stable manager and sees Cody at work too. When her ex is becoming a problem, Cody steps in to protect Hailey and her daughter!

The first 2 books in this series have definitely been my favorites. And while I still recommend this series overall, this one I did have a harder time with. The story starts off strong and pulled me in, but then it did start to feel repetitive and did drag in a lot of places. I didn’t connect to the characters in this one as much sadly. But I do know plenty of people who really did enjoy this one, so I do like that the series has a favorite book for everyone!

I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.

[Linna • linnareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hold Me Until Morning by A.L. Jackson 🍰

I really like how the author balances everything so well… the romance, the suspense, the spice, the humor. I feel like it can be really hard to have so many different elements within one story but it never felt like too much of any one thing here. I've been enjoying mixing in some romantic suspense books to my reading lately. I try to figure out what the twist will be at the ending for them all but I am rarely successful. Same case for this book, I had a feeling of what would happen at the end but didn't fully guess it!

Hailey is a single mom who moves back to the small town she grew up in. She's hoping to get away from her ex husband and make a safe life for her and her daughter. As Hailey is moving in to her new home, in the middle of a thunderstorm, she runs in to Cody who also ends up being her new neighbor. Cody and Hailey had known each other in the past. There had always been a spark between them, but they never acted on it. They were close, but the timing never worked before Hailey left town. Now that she is back it's hard for them to ignore the chemistry there. Hailey is hesitant to act on it given her daughter and dealing with a persistent ex husband. Meanwhile Cody has the protective urge to make sure Hailey and her daughter feel safe coming back to the small town and takes it upon himself to help her get integrated back. I loved how Cody stepped in without hesitation.

One of my favorite parts of this book was the flashbacks so we can understand how Cody and Hailey knew each other from the past. The way they were included throughout also played in to the suspense of the story since we know something happened that made them stop talking and stay away from each other. Plus the tension it added to the romance was so enjoyable to read.

What stopped this from being a full 5 star read for me was that the ending was a little bit much for me. Some things happened that I felt weren't necessary for the story. Aside from that it was a fantastic read!

💕 single mom
🏔️ small town
🏠 neighbors
🫠 possessive hero
🔎 suspense
🕰️ flashbacks
👏🏼 no third act breakup

dual POV
4.5/5 stars ⭐️
3/5 spice level 🌶️

[Sarah | sarah.onemorechapter · Rating 4 out of 5]

arc review:
Another wonderful read by A.L. Jackson. I am in love with Cody and Hailey. Their love is so pure and the way he loves her daughter Maddie… ugh so sweet! A.L. Jackson has a way of capturing my attention from the very start and I can’t help but get swept up in the beautiful romance she writes.

Hold Me Until Morning is the love story of Cody and Hailey. Hailey is the jaded single mom that has withstood too much trauma and heartache in her life. Wanting to start fresh, she is back in her hometown to start over and build a stable life for her daughter Maddie. Hailey soon finds out her new neighbor is the man who has always been in her heart… Cody Cooper.

Cody Cooper is a known playboy that had never let himself settle down. His past has been tainted with bad choices made to protect those he cares about. He has never allowed himself the thought of more and no one has ever made him want to change his mind until Hailey and Maddie move in next door. He quickly realizes his usual rules will not apply to Hailey. He’s had his eye on her for far too long and he won’t let her slip through his fingers again. Cody is willing to put his life on the line for the two girls he never saw coming.

I loved that we got to see the other characters from the previous books make appearances throughout the story. It made my heart so happy! Also, little Maddie’s character was so sweet and wholesome. She had the tattooed cowboy wrapped around her finger from day one.

Thank you A.L Jackson and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.

4.5⭐️| 3🌶️
•romantic suspense
•forbidden love
•second chance (ish)
•reformed playboy
•curvy fmc
•small town

[momaddictedtobooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! So many great characters. I loved Cody and Hailey. I adored Maddie and Lolly. This was such a great story. It had me all in my feels. It was hard to put down. It was one of those stories where I feel like I’m right there along side the characters.

I feel like Maddie made the whole story, she was the sweetest. Her and Mr. Cody, those scenes were everything 🥹 and Lolly, Hailey’s grandma, I just love her so much!

The last 10% had me on an emotional rollercoaster, so much was happening. At one point I wanted to throw my kindle 😅 I cried as well. This story was amazing! I enjoyed every minute of it!

[Colorado · Rating 2 out of 5]

More slow than suspenseful

Hold Me Until Morning tells Cody's and Hailey's story. It's told with alternating timelines and alternating points of view. From the beginning, you know that Hailey is on the run from a dangerous and abusive man. It's also revealed up front that Cody has a dark secret from his past that makes him feel unworthy for anything long-term. The author spins out the development of their relationship with a bunch of tropes - single mom with a cute and precocious kid who captivates the guy; older player who yearns for the sweet, younger girl; sassy grandmother encouraging them to misbehave. (Some of the plot feels a little repetitive with the 2nd book in the series. The child even uses the same speech quirk of calling people "my.") Ultimately, the pacing felt really slow; you don't really learn what's going on until close to the end. While stuff happens to let you know that the main characters are in danger, it doesn't feel like clues were dropped to keep you engaged. (I skimmed the last 2/3 of the book.)

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has had me completely consumed since I started it and with every book I swear it only gets better. Because I never thought anything could beat Ezra + Savannah, but this? This one may just be my favourite!

Time fell away when I read this, as Amy’s writing is unmatched, beautifully poetic and easy to read. This book is a captivating romance between two complex, well developed characters who have a shared history with unresolved feelings and secrets. There is so much chemistry, tension and raw emotion in this I felt it through every page. If you’re a lover of romantic suspense with heart and steam, this (and the entire series) is a must read.

Cody + Hailey met six years prior on her father’s ranch but despite there being mutual feelings, circumstances kept them apart until he left, and shortly after she did too. Now she’s back, with her daughter Maddie, looking for a fresh start not realising her new neighbour is Cody. What follows is a journey of facing the past, seeking redemption and finding love in amongst chaos and danger.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: small town, single mum, neighbours to lovers, forced proximity, protective hero, heroine in danger, he falls first.

Cody, the cocky cowboy? Yes, yes he is. But there was so much more to Cody than his reputation of being a player, his salacious grins and flirty banter. This man would do anything for those he cares about and when he see’s Hailey again it stirs up past feelings and magnetic pull between the two of them. Then when he meets Maddie? Get a mop because I melted to a puddle at their interactions and the relationship he built with her. He was all in and not deterred by Hailey’s reluctance or the danger that was lurking.

The last 20% of this book had my nerves fried, my heart in my throat and tears leaking from my eyes. In true Amy style, she builds up intense suspense and gives us twists we don’t see coming. The entire story was so well balanced between the romance, humour, swoon, suspense, twists and turns, keeping me completely enthralled from start to finish. The epilogue and bonus scene were the perfect ending and cherry on top.

[BookishRaquel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Narration: 5/5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Small Town
- Single Mom
- Neighbors to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- He Falls First
- Flirty Banter
- Heroine in Danger
- Protective Hero
- Suspense
- Dual POV
- Dual Timeline

I can't believe this was my first experience with A.L. Jackson's writing. I am obsessed! I will now make it a personal mission to read the first three books in this series, along with A.L. Jackson's backlist. I can definitely see why she is considered the Queen of single-parent romance.

Cody goes next door to help his new neighbor with some boxes and is surprised to see his neighbor is Hailey—the same Hailey he last saw six years ago, the same Hailey who was off limits. Hailey is now a single mother who has moved back to Time River for a fresh start. She certainly did not expect to see Cody Cooper.

I loved this story so much! Cody and Hailey have my heart. They fit well together and had amazing chemistry. Although Cody vowed to stay away from Hailey, their magnetic pull was too strong. The character development is so good. Cody is a cocky cowboy, but there is definitely more to him than meets the eye. He is possessive, protective, and has a sweet side. Hailey is strong, fierce, sassy, caring, and an amazing mom to her daughter, Maddie. I loved Lolly, Hailey's grandmother, so much. Maddie is the sweetest, and Lolly made me laugh. This story was an emotional roller coaster, and I was in tears by the end. The angst, tension, heat, suspense, banter, and emotion are perfection. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat.

Narration:
Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter performed a duet-style narration. They did a fantastic job, and I did not want to put this book down. Erin and Stephen are the perfect voices for Cody and Hailey. They beautifully portrayed the characters and brought them to life. This amazing audio experience made me feel like I was watching a movie.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic way to end the Time River series with Cody and Hailey! A.L knocks it out of the park every time I read one of her books! Romantic suspense, spice, angsty you name it! Cody was rough around the edges as was Hailey but they found their balance and their love soared. Also let me just say I love the kids in A.L’s books they are so damn cute and funny. I’ll miss these characters!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect ending to this series. 🤍🤍

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

EVERY SINGLE STAR FOR THIS READ!

AL always brings the best stories and the characters that I love. I have been waiting for Cody's story since he was introduced in this series.

This is a forbidden romance with so many twists in turns that is in a small town. Single mom Hailey and playboy Cody find love. But it comes with its own danger.

I love Cody so much. He is that one you just want to see happy. When he falls, he falls hard, and I love seeing that happen to him.
Hailey is sweet and one of a kind. Her heart is so big, and she is the best mother. She also has the sweetest little girl who will capture your heart.

These two fight for what they want, and I adore them for fighting for this love. I couldn't stop reading this once I started. I had to see how it unfolded, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. That is one of my favorite things of AL'S writing. You get all the love, steam, and those twists that leave you gasping...

[Mahi · Rating 1 out of 5]

dnf at 60%
I tried to complete the book, but couldn't take it anymore
hate the mmc, a walking std, slept with literally anyone who had a vagina. And came to "save" the fmc. It's a joke lmao

[Gayane♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book. I’m not sure if this is the final book from the series but it was really good. I loved this small town and all the characters in it. ❤️ That plot twist I didn’t see coming which was a shock. Overall good book 🥰

[Shushi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶.5

Trope - single mom, reformed-playboy MMC, neighbor, age-gap, forced proximity, workplace romance reverse-grumpy sunshine, small town, steamy, suspense, and drama
TW- death of loved ones(multiple)

Bonus chapter - 1

This book was wholesome, the characters were so well written and so was the story. It was good but it could've been so much better. Regardless, I feel it was the perfect end to the series. In this review all you're gonna see is Cody's praise, and if you didn't like him, move on.

Cody and Hailey had a great enemy-to-lovers vibe at the start of their relationship but the best part was the tension, it was hot in there. There was a lot of pushing from her end but I liked how cocky Cody was. He was charming, this guy carried her boxes in the rain, stayed at her house to protect her, and cared for her when no one else did. Did I mention he freakin called her shortcake!! SO CUTE and ATTENTIVE. Yes, I wasn't a big fan of his playboy tactics, but seeing his reasoning made sense.

It was surprising to see a new side of the Cooper family, in Dakota's book their life looked happy and good but here we get to see them struggle - where the oldest took all the burden without even telling anyone or realizing it. Cody was such a selfless soul, from a young age he took on responsibility for his mother and sisters and continuously gave up his dreams to keep them happy. It was sad seeing such a beautiful soul suffer when all he wanted was to keep his family satisfied. I am kind of disappointed in how his efforts weren't brought to light earlier.

Body-positive men are all I need to love a character and damn you CODY COOPER, he was one fine man - protective, loving, cocky, understanding, demanding, sexy, and beautiful inside out. I just loved those moments when he spoke the most tender words after a moment of vulnerability and affection. His confession was the most beautiful heart-touching of all. Oh to be loved by him.

One thing I like about reformed Playboy books is that these guys might have been manwhores but once they find their person, they go all in, they see no one but those girls, love no one but them, and cherish them like no other. They are cocky and afraid of commitments but as soon as their girls show up, they are the most loving and caring partner/co-parent. At least that's what I have seen in most of these books - and maybe that's why I still read and enjoy them.

Hailey was a strong woman, I just wished her character was explored a little bit more. She was so brave to take the steps that were essential for both her and her daughter's safety. Maddie was a lovely kid, she brought the dad side of Cody that no one knew existed until that very moment. And, Lolly I loved her, she was so funny and loving. Her puns were beyond this world. Her bond with Cody was so cute, I wanted to cherish it forever. Those small family moments they all shared were pure bliss.

There was more emotional damage done in this book than any other, however, I liked how we got to read Brooke's pov, and I think it enhanced the story a little more.

Pruitt's character gave me creeps and so many things just didn't feel nice and neither gave a good vibe - maybe that was the reason why I had such a sore mood while reading the book.

The whole of friends turning into the family (where most of them were real family) was one of the main reasons I picked this series and it was fun to watch each one of them fall in love, embrace new members, and finally grow their beautiful group with lovely kids.

The reason it wasn't a 5-star for me is -
* The plot twist was way too predictable.
* Once again the author targeted the kid to make the drama more interesting. I was happy to see that the kids weren't traumatized in book three and thought it would continue but as soon as I read "that" scene I knew it was gonna lose that one-star.
* And, finally the one fatality in the end. Like seriously? Why do that and break my heart? I didn't find it necessary, also it was fuckin gut-wrenching.

Ooh, the epilogue was beautiful, but what stole the show was the bonus chapter. OMG, IT WAS A FUCKIN MASTERPIECE, seeing all the men's POVs was just what I needed. They all craved love all their lives and they finally found it in their women and found family. Just for that, I would've given this book a four-star without even much thought.

I enjoyed it.
Would definitely recommend the series.
Overall 4/5.

[Jess - Reader of Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold Me Until Morning by A.L. Jackson 💙
Time River, Book 4
Interconnected Standalone

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️
Adult • Romance
ARC Review
444 pages
🗓️ July 1st

💙 romantic suspense
🐎 small town romance
💙 second chance(ish)
🐎 single mom
💙 close proximity
🐎 neighbors to lovers
💙 workplace romance
🐎 found family
💙 band of brothers
🐎 no 3rd act breakup

📌“You’re it for me.”

📌“There was always something that ached at the back of my mind every time I thought of you”“You thought of me?”
“How could I not think of you?”

📌“You really are my match. Signed and sealed.”

📌“There was a part of me that always knew it. I felt you like a piece that had gone missing.”

Hold me not only until morning. Hold me forever. That’s what this book sang to me since page 1 and that’s what I promise to do. Because it has a part of me that I didn’t know existed. Because Cody and Hailey and Maddie wrecked my heart in all the good ways that matter. They know all the important things about me. And I will know them long before I reached the end.

I love every single one of this band of brothers. But I honestly thought Ryder was it for me. Nobody could possibly touch him way up there. Ah! Sweet summer child, I knew nothing. Cody. Cody is it. Cody who made so many mistakes when he was young. Cody who should have known better. But also Cody who did do better. Cody who gave everything to those he loved. Cody who knew… some things are worth it.

Hails bells, you’re a Goddess among women.

Thank you so much @aljacksonauthor and @valentine_pr_ for this ARC and for such a perfect book that consumed all my minutes.

[dreamingofbookss · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3,5 stars ⭐️

Tropes:
forced proximity 🏠
he falls first 💜
single mom 🧸
small town 🤠
workplace 🐎

AND THEY WERE NEIGHBOURS… 🐴

This was my first time reading a ‘neighbours to lovers’ story and it was so much fun!

The ‘Time River’ is such a cosy series that I would really recommend if you like the small town aspect.

I personally like reading stories from A.L. Jackson because they read so easily and aren’t too long.

The story starts with Hailey Wagner, she and her daughter Madison are moving in with her grandmother Lolly after a traumatic relationship. When she’s bringing boxes inside in the rain, her neighbour wanted to help her but that’s when she realised it’s Cody Cooper.

They have a history together so Hailey decides to stay far away from him. She starts her new job at the Cambrey Pines Spa & Resort as a stables manager and that’s where she needs to work together with the owner of the landscaping company, Cody…

Thank you to Valentine PR, A.L. Jackson and the publisher for providing me with this copy. All opinions are my own.

[Kylie Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg this was intense.
Undeniable heartbreaking love, traumatic losses, secrets and danger. So much danger.
An innocent woman in crossfires she could never imagine.
The ones who should protect her, instead pushing her to run for her and her daughter’s life.
An unforgettable love story fighting through secrets, lies and tragic pasts.
Two broken souls who haven’t stopped suffering to protect the ones they love.
I knew going into this final story of this series , it was gonna be heavy. Amy doesn’t do anything halfway, this series proving just that.
She has a magic craft when she writes , that makes you one with the world and characters she writes.
My heart broke so many times in this story. The twists and bl0w at the end, had me clutching my heart.
This is one for the books. This one won’t leave your mind or heart for awhile.
Perfect. Intense. Devastating . Absolutely beautiful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I freaking LOVE Time River!! It’s a small town filled with the most amazing people but also always brings some suspense to the table!

We finally get Cody’s story and boy was it good!! Hailey & Cody had a past but never expected to see each-other again in the small town they first met…especially right next door to each other!! They both have a past they’re running away from but will it catch up to them both?!

Lolly is my favorite & I love her 😭😭😭 also the found family in small towns always gets me and this one definitely hit harder because Hailey needed it so much. Her and her lil Maddie are so stinking cute. There is so much unveiled and my mouth was shocked towards the end (but I did guess one of the big shocks hehe).

Also the narrators were perfect for the characters!!!

Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Book type: audio

Tropes:
Second chance
Single mom
Forced proximity
Neighbors to lovers
He Falls First
Workplace Romance
Small Town
Heroine in Danger
Protective Hero

[Booksharks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hold Me Until Morning is a romantic suspense where both the leads hide their own secrets that could ruin them both. Set out to start a new life with the Daughter and grandmother Hailey unexpectedly gains a neighbor who's cocky and handsome as sin and hey they have a history together too.

I had a neutral opinion of Cody from the previous books and when I started the story the character was elevated a lot so eventually it made me expect a lot from Cody but did he deliver it? Absolutely not !! And was I disappointed with that?? Hell yeah, I am I mean HE.IS.THE.MC of the book right? MC was like before getting to her you have to deal with me and they did and he was unable to do anything back except lick his wounds and get in bed with FMC. Cody was nothing but a giant man with tattoos and lots of grins and smirks.

Not to mention the past which was bound to hold Cody back from Hailey is also lame It didn't spin me into a shocking loop or anything when the suspense was revealed I was like "Really? That was why you were guilty ?"

The FMC had all the evidence and she hid it and didn't even know what to do with it!! She always says that she gonna figure out a plan where she could use the evidence against the creepy husband
but she never did!! can u believe it??

I just wanna give a quick trigger warning as personally I wasn't ready for what happened in the book there's the death of loved ones in the book so be careful while handling it.