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To Have and To Hold
April 23, 1994. The date is set. Colin MacLann is getting married. Growing up in the suburbs of New York City at a time when kids could still be kids and sometimes were for too long, Colin looked like he had it all: he was smart, athletic, had a voice for rock 'n' roll, and lots of luck. There were girlfriends too, five of them: Cindy, Haley, Cara, Monique and Tessa. Each of them burst into his life at different times to inspire him in their own unique way, and more often than not, broke his heart too. Still, fate has chosen one of them to be his soul mate. Will Colin grow up in time to earn a place at the altar beside her? Or must destiny deliver someone else? In To Have and To Hold, Trae Stratton takes the reader on a rare journey. By writing almost exclusively from the point of view of the groom and his family, a simple love story turns into an endearing family saga anchored to Colin's relationships. Through the deft use of flashbacks, the reader grows up with Colin just before the digital age in a time and place when your neighborhood could still be your whole world. As the hour of his wedding draws near, the witty dialogue keeps the plot moving at a crisp pace, while slyly preserving the identity of the bride until the final chapter. Whether you enjoy mysteries, happy endings or both, the MacLann family will work their way into your heart for a long time to come.
584 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2014
1 person is currently reading
1020 people want to read
About the author
Trae Stratton
3 books55 followersTrae was born and raised in New York City. As a boy his storytelling gene was awakened by Star Wars, and subsequently raised through comic books. Then he found Dungeons and Dragons, and as a Dungeon Master learned more about Plot, Dialogue, Pacing and Turning Point than he ever could in grammar in school. However, it was in high-school and college that he learned there was a mysterious blueprint behind all the words on paper called Craft, and ever since then, he has continued to study and refine his writer's toolbox in an effort to create the same kinds of stories he likes to read: fast paced and character driven. By combining heartwarming family perspective and the deft use of flashbacks in his debut novel, To Have and To Hold, Trae utilized a fresh storytelling technique to propel new adult romance energy into an uplifting bridal mystery rarely seen on the shelves. For 2021, Trae presents the first book in the Tamm Chronicles Trilogy: Thunder Peak. Laden with action and magical mysteries, Thunder Peak is sure to please fans of multiple genres including fantasy, mystery, action and adventure and western.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 13, 2015
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TO HAVE AND TO HOLD
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Colin MacLann is getting married, today is the day and in just a few hours he will begin to “write” another addition to the “books” of his life’s journey. Reflecting back on the story of his life through his thoughts, we are invited to witness a young boy, his best friends and joy of their youthful imaginations. Always called the Lucky One, Colin was a gifted athlete, a talented singer and seemed to get whatever he wanted, the girls, the attention, that hidden niggling of self-doubt was always there. As his childhood friends grew, their bonds remained strong and lives changed, some for the better, some hit major roadblocks along the way only to hurdle past them in directions they only dreamed about. But these young men are not the only ones reflecting on events of their pasts; his parents have their own secrets,flaws and mistakes hidden deep within.
What of the girls in Colin’s life, how did they impact the man he has become as they walked into and out of his life? His bride awaits him, the one he needed most, and how did she know she was to co-author his next story? Masterful storytelling, riveting and, well, simply breathtaking!
This could have been written about any family, anywhere and that is part of the charm of this tale. Trae Stratton has created a story of introspection, revelations, truths, pain and joy in a way that welcomes his readers into the fold of the MacLann family. They're far from perfect, have overstepped boundaries, have loved and lost, been wounded and have healed, but always they are a family of the heart, mind and soul, a solid unit that often defies explanation.
The undertones are decidedly masculine as the memories and flashbacks are told from a mostly male perspective. An emotional rollercoaster, you will soar with the characters, feel their self-doubt and crash and burn alongside them, but throughout, you will feel hope for the future based on events and actions from the past, and love, a lot of love.
Trae Stratton writes from his heart, it’s in every word on each page as they come to life in your mind’s eye. I suggest keeping tissues nearby, because Mr. Stratton not only gives you a couple of laughs, but he will scrape your heart raw just when you least want it. If that isn't magical storytelling, nothing is.
I received this copy from author Trae Stratton in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: June 24, 2014
Publisher: Trae Stratton
ISBN-13: 9781463783235
Genre: Family Saga | Fiction
Print Length: 584 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Here's YOUR chance to win a print copy or 1 of 2 Kindle copies of
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD
International
Ends April 27, 2015
Colin MacLann is getting married, today is the day and in just a few hours he will begin to “write” another addition to the “books” of his life’s journey. Reflecting back on the story of his life through his thoughts, we are invited to witness a young boy, his best friends and joy of their youthful imaginations. Always called the Lucky One, Colin was a gifted athlete, a talented singer and seemed to get whatever he wanted, the girls, the attention, that hidden niggling of self-doubt was always there. As his childhood friends grew, their bonds remained strong and lives changed, some for the better, some hit major roadblocks along the way only to hurdle past them in directions they only dreamed about. But these young men are not the only ones reflecting on events of their pasts; his parents have their own secrets,flaws and mistakes hidden deep within.
What of the girls in Colin’s life, how did they impact the man he has become as they walked into and out of his life? His bride awaits him, the one he needed most, and how did she know she was to co-author his next story? Masterful storytelling, riveting and, well, simply breathtaking!
This could have been written about any family, anywhere and that is part of the charm of this tale. Trae Stratton has created a story of introspection, revelations, truths, pain and joy in a way that welcomes his readers into the fold of the MacLann family. They're far from perfect, have overstepped boundaries, have loved and lost, been wounded and have healed, but always they are a family of the heart, mind and soul, a solid unit that often defies explanation.
The undertones are decidedly masculine as the memories and flashbacks are told from a mostly male perspective. An emotional rollercoaster, you will soar with the characters, feel their self-doubt and crash and burn alongside them, but throughout, you will feel hope for the future based on events and actions from the past, and love, a lot of love.
Trae Stratton writes from his heart, it’s in every word on each page as they come to life in your mind’s eye. I suggest keeping tissues nearby, because Mr. Stratton not only gives you a couple of laughs, but he will scrape your heart raw just when you least want it. If that isn't magical storytelling, nothing is.
I received this copy from author Trae Stratton in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: June 24, 2014
Publisher: Trae Stratton
ISBN-13: 9781463783235
Genre: Family Saga | Fiction
Print Length: 584 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 7, 2020
To Have and to Hold exceeded all of my expectations. I'll admit, it took me a little bit to get into the book, but after a little bit, I could not stop reading. This was a captivating story that is told through flashbacks and the events that take place on the main character, Colin's, wedding day. The flashbacks tell the story of Colin's childhood and his previous romantic relationships. Until the very last chapter, you do not know which girl he ends up with.
This story made me laugh countless times and made me tear up (which does not happen often in books). I fell in love with the MacLann family and every single character in this book. If you want to read a book that will keep you smiling and make you feel as if you are living somebody else's story, this is the book for you. Also, I just want to say that I loved how the story ended. I was worried that I would not end up liking who Colin ended up with, but it was perfect. This whole book was perfect.
This story made me laugh countless times and made me tear up (which does not happen often in books). I fell in love with the MacLann family and every single character in this book. If you want to read a book that will keep you smiling and make you feel as if you are living somebody else's story, this is the book for you. Also, I just want to say that I loved how the story ended. I was worried that I would not end up liking who Colin ended up with, but it was perfect. This whole book was perfect.
May 16, 2015
There are just those books that gets you right at the first page, this is what this book made me feel.
I would rate this book 4.5 over 5 stars
Blurb:
"April 23, 1994. The date is set. Colin MacLann is getting married. Growing up in the suburbs of New York City at a time when kids could still be kids and sometimes were for too long, Colin looked like he had it all: he was smart, athletic, had a voice for rock 'n' roll, and lots of luck. There were girlfriends too, five of them: Cindy, Haley, Cara, Monique and Tessa. Each of them burst into his life at different times to inspire him in their own unique way, and more often than not, broke his heart too. Still, fate has chosen one of them to be his soul mate. Will Colin grow up in time to earn a place at the altar beside her? Or must destiny deliver someone else? In To Have and To Hold, Trae Stratton takes the reader on a rare journey. By writing almost exclusively from the point of view of the groom and his family, a simple love story turns into an endearing family saga anchored to Colin's relationships. Through the deft use of flashbacks, the reader grows up with Colin just before the digital age in a time and place when your neighborhood could still be your whole world. As the hour of his wedding draws near, the witty dialogue keeps the plot moving at a crisp pace, while slyly preserving the identity of the bride until the final chapter. Whether you enjoy mysteries, happy endings or both, the MacLann family will work their way into your heart for a long time to come."
I have no words on how robust this book is. The book is a story in the point of view of the second son Colin, as he comes and reflects on his past before his marriage. Memories start wheeling through his head, laughs, smiles, and even the idea of falling in love emerges. That love that made him the Colin Mclann he is that very day.
I guess what made this a great read is the witty way the story was told, emotions get to you each page and you just stop and smile on how amazing this book is. You see, Colin has 5 girlfriends and what made this more astounding was how he marries one of them. Each chapter gives up a clue, and you find out who the bride is at the end of the book. It was hard to bring myself into a halt, and because of my longing to find who the lucky one is, I read the book in a day and a half with short breaks. It has such a captivating plot that gave me a rush of emotions.
A wonderful tale of friendship, true loves, and family. Truly a great read. What are you waiting for? Are you ready to journey with the McLanns? Grab your copy now!
I would like to thank Trae Stratton for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review. Your trust means alot to me and I'm looking forward to more amazing reads from you!
blog post: https://wordpress.com/post/68957935/423/
I would rate this book 4.5 over 5 stars
Blurb:
"April 23, 1994. The date is set. Colin MacLann is getting married. Growing up in the suburbs of New York City at a time when kids could still be kids and sometimes were for too long, Colin looked like he had it all: he was smart, athletic, had a voice for rock 'n' roll, and lots of luck. There were girlfriends too, five of them: Cindy, Haley, Cara, Monique and Tessa. Each of them burst into his life at different times to inspire him in their own unique way, and more often than not, broke his heart too. Still, fate has chosen one of them to be his soul mate. Will Colin grow up in time to earn a place at the altar beside her? Or must destiny deliver someone else? In To Have and To Hold, Trae Stratton takes the reader on a rare journey. By writing almost exclusively from the point of view of the groom and his family, a simple love story turns into an endearing family saga anchored to Colin's relationships. Through the deft use of flashbacks, the reader grows up with Colin just before the digital age in a time and place when your neighborhood could still be your whole world. As the hour of his wedding draws near, the witty dialogue keeps the plot moving at a crisp pace, while slyly preserving the identity of the bride until the final chapter. Whether you enjoy mysteries, happy endings or both, the MacLann family will work their way into your heart for a long time to come."
I have no words on how robust this book is. The book is a story in the point of view of the second son Colin, as he comes and reflects on his past before his marriage. Memories start wheeling through his head, laughs, smiles, and even the idea of falling in love emerges. That love that made him the Colin Mclann he is that very day.
I guess what made this a great read is the witty way the story was told, emotions get to you each page and you just stop and smile on how amazing this book is. You see, Colin has 5 girlfriends and what made this more astounding was how he marries one of them. Each chapter gives up a clue, and you find out who the bride is at the end of the book. It was hard to bring myself into a halt, and because of my longing to find who the lucky one is, I read the book in a day and a half with short breaks. It has such a captivating plot that gave me a rush of emotions.
A wonderful tale of friendship, true loves, and family. Truly a great read. What are you waiting for? Are you ready to journey with the McLanns? Grab your copy now!
I would like to thank Trae Stratton for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review. Your trust means alot to me and I'm looking forward to more amazing reads from you!
blog post: https://wordpress.com/post/68957935/423/
January 12, 2015
Nostalgic, Uplifting Read
“To Have and to Hold” is a heart-warming story of a large family growing up in Queens. Although there are five children in the MacLann household, the story is based around Colin, the second child in the family.
Its Colin’s wedding day. As he sits in his favorite chair in his family home, he reflects on his childhood. His mind is instantly flooded with memories. He ponders on all the trials and tribulations he has gone through in his life that has lead him to be the man he is today.
Colin has had five major girlfriends. The intriguing part is that he marries one of them, but you don’t know which one until the end of the book. That in itself was an added thrill.
Being the mother of a thirty five year old son, this book spoke to me on a personal level. After finishing the story, I sat thinking of the similarities between Colin and my own son. The references of plastic army men, Star Wars, cars, girlfriends, football and the music of the 80’s and 90’s brought tears to my eyes. I immediately picked up my phone and called my son, just to hear his voice and to tell him how much I love him.
Author Trae Stratton has been able to capture the essence of happiness in the pages of this book.
I felt comforted, satisfied and truly touched after reading this novel.
5 Stars easy!
“To Have and to Hold” is a heart-warming story of a large family growing up in Queens. Although there are five children in the MacLann household, the story is based around Colin, the second child in the family.
Its Colin’s wedding day. As he sits in his favorite chair in his family home, he reflects on his childhood. His mind is instantly flooded with memories. He ponders on all the trials and tribulations he has gone through in his life that has lead him to be the man he is today.
Colin has had five major girlfriends. The intriguing part is that he marries one of them, but you don’t know which one until the end of the book. That in itself was an added thrill.
Being the mother of a thirty five year old son, this book spoke to me on a personal level. After finishing the story, I sat thinking of the similarities between Colin and my own son. The references of plastic army men, Star Wars, cars, girlfriends, football and the music of the 80’s and 90’s brought tears to my eyes. I immediately picked up my phone and called my son, just to hear his voice and to tell him how much I love him.
Author Trae Stratton has been able to capture the essence of happiness in the pages of this book.
I felt comforted, satisfied and truly touched after reading this novel.
5 Stars easy!
October 10, 2014
Trae Stratton’s novel, To Have and To Hold is absolutely amazing! I highly recommend reading his fabulous novel. Trae Stratton definitely knows how to keep his readers intrigued and lured in from the first page onward. I loved his characters journey of romance unfolded right before me! A beautiful and simple love story told from the groom’s point of view! This book caught my attention because most novels are told from the woman’s or both the woman’s and man’s point of view. But Trae’s dashing novel was strictly told from the groom’s and the groom’s family point of view. The chapter’s switched point of views and kept me intrigued as to when the groom will be finally getting married. Collin MacLann has it all. A good life and many girlfriends that come in his life at different points in his life. Making the novel highly unique and interesting. Which one of the girlfriends will be his bride? Or will someone else be his bride? Whether you love reading a good mystery or a perfect romance, To Have and To Hold, has it all! A brilliant must read that will keep you reading all night long! I highly recommend getting a copy of Trae Stratton’s book and start reading it now! I rate the novel a 5 out of 5 stars!
January 27, 2015
To Have and To Hold was awesome. It's not some cheesy romance novel. Usually you find books that are all about the woman. This is mainly from the point of view of the guy. Stratton keeps you engaged through out the whole book. If you pay real close attention, his clues as to who Collin will marry will blow your mind! I totally recommend this. And just an FYI, you'll probably shed some tears. I also think this would make an awesome movie.
February 16, 2018
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I really enjoyed reading To Have and To Hold. This was told from the groom's view. He is getting ready for his wedding and he flashes back to times in his past. You are left guessing who his bride is until the very end. I really liked the characters and their stories.
I really enjoyed reading To Have and To Hold. This was told from the groom's view. He is getting ready for his wedding and he flashes back to times in his past. You are left guessing who his bride is until the very end. I really liked the characters and their stories.
March 9, 2015
I loved the book. When a book draws me in I don't stop reading and hate when I have to put it down. That's what this book did for me. It takes me back to the 80's and keeps you on edge through most of the book. Live the life through Colin MacLann and his family. Evolve with them.
Read
April 12, 2015i sooo loved this book... i was desperate to finish reading it to see who Colin ending up marrying. I enjoy reading the flash back to previous years that brought everyone to the day Colin got married.......
March 11, 2015
A wonderful "Hallmark" type story that will leave you feeling uplifted and hoping you'll be "invited" to another MacLann wedding sometime soon.
August 11, 2016
Memories flood in for Colin McClann and all those dear to him, the nostalgia too hard to ignore on this big day, the day he finally married the one girl who truly stole his heart.
The story reminisces through the eyes of all those who were a part of Colin's life from childhood right up until the day of his wedding.
Every person who touched his life whether it be briefly or for the long haul had some impact on the person Colin had become.
There were many great adventures, and also many heart breaks, but if your any part of the McClann family, blood or not, they stood by you no matter what.
Just when you think you know all there is to know about the McCLann's, Trae Stratton adds a new layer or twist in the story. This is a powerfully emotional story that pulls you in and truly makes you want to be a member of the McClann family!
The story reminisces through the eyes of all those who were a part of Colin's life from childhood right up until the day of his wedding.
Every person who touched his life whether it be briefly or for the long haul had some impact on the person Colin had become.
There were many great adventures, and also many heart breaks, but if your any part of the McClann family, blood or not, they stood by you no matter what.
Just when you think you know all there is to know about the McCLann's, Trae Stratton adds a new layer or twist in the story. This is a powerfully emotional story that pulls you in and truly makes you want to be a member of the McClann family!
March 1, 2015
3.5/5.0
“To Have and To Hold” is a family tale that walks readers through the wedding day with the point of view switching from the groom, family members and groomsmen.
Read full review in the 2015 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
“To Have and To Hold” is a family tale that walks readers through the wedding day with the point of view switching from the groom, family members and groomsmen.
Read full review in the 2015 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
May 5, 2015
I like this book as its told from the grooms point of view.it tells the story of the mclanns on the day of Colin's wedding. As he thinks about all his ex girlfriends he's had before his wife to be.
We get to see each character and their back story's and how everything has lead Colin to this moment in time. And it keeps you guessing till the end who is the one he ends up marrying.
We get to see each character and their back story's and how everything has lead Colin to this moment in time. And it keeps you guessing till the end who is the one he ends up marrying.
September 2, 2016
This book is the point of view of the groom and his family, a simple love story turns into an endearing family saga anchored to Colin's relationships.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews