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Heart #1
Hold My Heart
On a manhunt for a serial killer, FBI Special Agent Ileana Harper falls through a break in time, ripping her from the present and everything she knows. After forming an uneasy alliance with the man who comes to her rescue, she unearths long-buried family secrets. Spiraling out of control, she clings to memories of Tommy, her partner and best friend of eight years, to keep her sane, fearful she may never see him again.
FBI Special Agent Tommy Colton relies on Ileana to keep him grounded; she’s the closest thing he’s ever had to love in his life. When Ileana disappears, leaving no trace, he falls apart. Without her beside him, Tommy is about to face the biggest challenge of his career, if not his life.
While trying to find a way home, Ileana races to determine the killer’s identity and discovers he might be closer than she realized. Will she risk everything to catch him, or sacrifice justice to find her way back to Tommy before it’s too late?
FBI Special Agent Tommy Colton relies on Ileana to keep him grounded; she’s the closest thing he’s ever had to love in his life. When Ileana disappears, leaving no trace, he falls apart. Without her beside him, Tommy is about to face the biggest challenge of his career, if not his life.
While trying to find a way home, Ileana races to determine the killer’s identity and discovers he might be closer than she realized. Will she risk everything to catch him, or sacrifice justice to find her way back to Tommy before it’s too late?
373 pages, ebook
First published December 22, 2014
17 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
Esther M. Soto
5 books125 followersEsther grew up on the beautiful Caribbean island of Puerto Rico before meeting and marrying her soul mate.
A former military wife, she is the mother of three boys, explorer, avid reader, communications professor, and knowledge hound. An Army Mom at heart, Esther resides in FL where she spends her days teaching human communication and public speaking, grading, and writing about love, romance, and life.
A former military wife, she is the mother of three boys, explorer, avid reader, communications professor, and knowledge hound. An Army Mom at heart, Esther resides in FL where she spends her days teaching human communication and public speaking, grading, and writing about love, romance, and life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 17, 2017
Remember, Karly and Heather, when we were discussing romance novels that we enjoyed and I said that there wasn't a single one that I could think of that I truly liked? (Well, now I remember I liked Ember but that's not totally romance if I'm being honest). Well, guess what? I can cross that little number off my bucket list because this book RIGHT HERE is a winner.
This novel actually did not start out very well when I thought it was a police procedural thriller. The dialogue was unrealistic and forced, the characters were flat, and there was absolutely nothing that made it stand out. Agent Ileana Harper and her partner Agent Tommy Colton are on the tracks of a serial killer who kills three women every ten years and then vanishes into thin air. He has now killed two women in Chicago. They know they are running out of town before the guy vanishes again. Ileana who is called Lil or Lily by Tommy is a fierce loner and Tommy is kinda the stereotypical playboy. I was thinking "big deal." These two are partners and have been best friends for eight years and then catching the bad guy is going to bring them closer together and they will find out they are perfect together. Blah blah blah. Reminds me of something else.
But this book surprised me. Ileana, hot on the killer's tracks, disappears when she enters a cornfield. Without a trace. Tommy Colton becomes a train wreck without her and it turns out, Lil is transported way back. To 1944.
Lil and Tommy became amazing characters for me. Rich, flawed, deeply rendered, and have a beautiful story that actually got to me. Because there is nothing instalove about this union. When Lil goes missing, snapshots of their friendship/partnership are relayed by each character through dreams. We find out that Tommy has been head over heels in love with her since he met her but has let her live her own life without telling her because he is worried about ruining their friendship and he thinks that Lil is too good for him. Lil has just totally convinced herself that Tommy does not at all feel that way about her so when she finds a hunka hunka burning love circa 1944 in the form of her rescuer, Will Shaw, she lets herself feel something for another human being again. Lil helps out on Will's farm, becomes extremely close with his family, and feels herself finding missing pieces of herself she didn't even know were lost. Lil came from a broken home, abuse, and a mother who hated her. Lil keeps her emotions not only hidden, but completely out of the way. She avoids people, friends, and any situations in which she could feel attached or connected to someone else. Except for Tommy. They served in the army together, saved each others' lives, had each others' backs for the last eight years. He is the best friend she has ever had, but Will really stirs up longing inside of her. So why then can she not get Tommy out of her mind?
Once Lil's background begins to come forward, and snapshots of her childhood abuse and her years as a lieutenant in the Army serving in Afghanistan begin to rise, I realize what a beautiful character Lil is. Something that I do not come across in most romance novels. And yes there is a little bit of time travel and a little bit of suspenseful thriller in here, but those elements are not the focal point. The focal point is definitely Lil and Tommy and they have something in a fictional world that I became jealous of. Me!
There are definitely flaws. The writing needs to be cleaned up, dialogue polished, and there were definitely stupid things about Lil and Tommy (such as Lil being as smart as she is but still being so completely dense when it comes to Tommy's feelings and Tommy still has some remnants of a stupid macho player (it is NEVER ok to refer to the woman you love as "mine.")) but nobody is perfect. And the way these characters complemented each other and forgave their flaws is realistic and something I could get behind. Oh yeah, and the sex. HOT HOT HOT.
But I forgave this book a lot of flaws because I had such a great time reading it. I think I read the last 75% in one day. It was exactly the right book at the right time. And I am definitely looking forward to reading the sequel when it comes out.
I highly recommend this book to all my friends out there who enjoy romance (because if I like it? Wow). and guess what? It is currently FREE on kindle unlimited if you have it. And if you don't? Well, it's still only $1.99. You can't get any better than that, people.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This novel actually did not start out very well when I thought it was a police procedural thriller. The dialogue was unrealistic and forced, the characters were flat, and there was absolutely nothing that made it stand out. Agent Ileana Harper and her partner Agent Tommy Colton are on the tracks of a serial killer who kills three women every ten years and then vanishes into thin air. He has now killed two women in Chicago. They know they are running out of town before the guy vanishes again. Ileana who is called Lil or Lily by Tommy is a fierce loner and Tommy is kinda the stereotypical playboy. I was thinking "big deal." These two are partners and have been best friends for eight years and then catching the bad guy is going to bring them closer together and they will find out they are perfect together. Blah blah blah. Reminds me of something else.
But this book surprised me. Ileana, hot on the killer's tracks, disappears when she enters a cornfield. Without a trace. Tommy Colton becomes a train wreck without her and it turns out, Lil is transported way back. To 1944.
Lil and Tommy became amazing characters for me. Rich, flawed, deeply rendered, and have a beautiful story that actually got to me. Because there is nothing instalove about this union. When Lil goes missing, snapshots of their friendship/partnership are relayed by each character through dreams. We find out that Tommy has been head over heels in love with her since he met her but has let her live her own life without telling her because he is worried about ruining their friendship and he thinks that Lil is too good for him. Lil has just totally convinced herself that Tommy does not at all feel that way about her so when she finds a hunka hunka burning love circa 1944 in the form of her rescuer, Will Shaw, she lets herself feel something for another human being again. Lil helps out on Will's farm, becomes extremely close with his family, and feels herself finding missing pieces of herself she didn't even know were lost. Lil came from a broken home, abuse, and a mother who hated her. Lil keeps her emotions not only hidden, but completely out of the way. She avoids people, friends, and any situations in which she could feel attached or connected to someone else. Except for Tommy. They served in the army together, saved each others' lives, had each others' backs for the last eight years. He is the best friend she has ever had, but Will really stirs up longing inside of her. So why then can she not get Tommy out of her mind?
Once Lil's background begins to come forward, and snapshots of her childhood abuse and her years as a lieutenant in the Army serving in Afghanistan begin to rise, I realize what a beautiful character Lil is. Something that I do not come across in most romance novels. And yes there is a little bit of time travel and a little bit of suspenseful thriller in here, but those elements are not the focal point. The focal point is definitely Lil and Tommy and they have something in a fictional world that I became jealous of. Me!
There are definitely flaws. The writing needs to be cleaned up, dialogue polished, and there were definitely stupid things about Lil and Tommy (such as Lil being as smart as she is but still being so completely dense when it comes to Tommy's feelings and Tommy still has some remnants of a stupid macho player (it is NEVER ok to refer to the woman you love as "mine.")) but nobody is perfect. And the way these characters complemented each other and forgave their flaws is realistic and something I could get behind. Oh yeah, and the sex. HOT HOT HOT.
But I forgave this book a lot of flaws because I had such a great time reading it. I think I read the last 75% in one day. It was exactly the right book at the right time. And I am definitely looking forward to reading the sequel when it comes out.
I highly recommend this book to all my friends out there who enjoy romance (because if I like it? Wow). and guess what? It is currently FREE on kindle unlimited if you have it. And if you don't? Well, it's still only $1.99. You can't get any better than that, people.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2016
I fell in love with the author’s writing when I read Hold My Heart. She has a magical way of mixing present with the past. What I really loved though was the romance between her characters. Time travel fiction, a passionate love story and mystery blend together in Ms Soto’s spellbinding story of two people, Ileana and Tommy, who are best friends but have developed feelings for each other.
Ileana and Tommy have fought in the war together and are currently FBI Special Agents working side-by-side. Their search for an elusive serial killer takes an unexpected turn when Ileana mysteriously disappears and Tommy is left alone, desperate to find his missing partner and love of his life. Transported from 2013 in the year 1944, Ileana tries to discover her roots and find the solution for the mystery.
Raw desire has formed a conduit between these two passionate souls who are separated by the barrier of time. Ileana and Tommy don't get together ‘til late in the book, but it's so smoking hot that it's totally worth the wait.
This book is romantic with just enough suspense and explanation behind the time-travel to make it a thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying read. Strong female lead, hot hero, layered mystery and non-stop action = great read!
Complimentary copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Ileana and Tommy have fought in the war together and are currently FBI Special Agents working side-by-side. Their search for an elusive serial killer takes an unexpected turn when Ileana mysteriously disappears and Tommy is left alone, desperate to find his missing partner and love of his life. Transported from 2013 in the year 1944, Ileana tries to discover her roots and find the solution for the mystery.
Raw desire has formed a conduit between these two passionate souls who are separated by the barrier of time. Ileana and Tommy don't get together ‘til late in the book, but it's so smoking hot that it's totally worth the wait.
This book is romantic with just enough suspense and explanation behind the time-travel to make it a thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying read. Strong female lead, hot hero, layered mystery and non-stop action = great read!
Complimentary copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
June 16, 2017
***** 5+ Stars *****
Hold My Heart is a must read! My mind was all over the place. Laughter to tears. I couldn't get enough. The mystery... the romance... the suspense... I loved everything about it. I want to shout at the top of my lungs and tell everyone who enjoy romance novels to read this book!
The star of the story is Agent Ileana Harper, and she is one tough girl. She knows how to take care of herself. How to be alone. When she was young, she left her uncaring family. She graduated school early and joined the army. After serving in Afghanistan, she settled down in Chicago as an FBI agent.
Agent Tommy Colton is her constant in life. Her best friend. They went to war together, and now they solve crime together. The attraction between them is there, but neither of them express their true feelings for each other.
When a bunch of murders are noticed, Agent Harper and Colton spend countless days and nights looking for a suspect.
One case changes everything.
And somehow Ileana gets sent back to 1944.
Honestly, it felt like I went back in the time with her. I'd pull up a song mentioned in the pages and read with it playing in the background. My own heart was crying for Tommy. Everything about this story is perfect. I can't think of one negative thing. The only regret I have is waiting so long to read this. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!
Hold My Heart is a must read! My mind was all over the place. Laughter to tears. I couldn't get enough. The mystery... the romance... the suspense... I loved everything about it. I want to shout at the top of my lungs and tell everyone who enjoy romance novels to read this book!
The star of the story is Agent Ileana Harper, and she is one tough girl. She knows how to take care of herself. How to be alone. When she was young, she left her uncaring family. She graduated school early and joined the army. After serving in Afghanistan, she settled down in Chicago as an FBI agent.
Agent Tommy Colton is her constant in life. Her best friend. They went to war together, and now they solve crime together. The attraction between them is there, but neither of them express their true feelings for each other.
When a bunch of murders are noticed, Agent Harper and Colton spend countless days and nights looking for a suspect.
One case changes everything.
And somehow Ileana gets sent back to 1944.
Honestly, it felt like I went back in the time with her. I'd pull up a song mentioned in the pages and read with it playing in the background. My own heart was crying for Tommy. Everything about this story is perfect. I can't think of one negative thing. The only regret I have is waiting so long to read this. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!
August 28, 2016
I am always looking for something new in the literary world. I want the unique, not the same story regurgitated over and over and over again. Those stories are few and far between, so when I come across one, I want to shout from the rooftops and force everyone to read it immediately.
You're all capable of reading a book summary, so I'm not going to re-summarize the plot down here. Just know that the appeal of a romance featuring time travel was more than I could resist. Add to that the FBI/serial killer plot point, and I was SOLD.
Ileana (Lil) is a bad ass female protagonist. She's truly independent, but not without flaws. Her familial background is the major reason, but none of this makes her come across whiny and childish. She's managed to overcome it all, but still doesn't seem to realize she could be loved by anyone. She's emotionally closed off to most people. The few exceptions she makes even struggle to get through to her at times. Lil is someone I can look up to, and not feel as though I'm lowering any standards I've set for myself. She feels like a real woman, not someone who's overly perfect and unattainable.
Tommy is...
It's not often I feel that a male character is super swoonworthy (I've met the Maddox men, hello!), so he was a wonderful surprise. Tough as nails, hot as Hell, sweet, charismatic, and completely in love with Lil, Tommy is the man that all women want, and hope to settle down with. His Army background and FBI agent career give him that hardcore exterior we expect, but inside, he's got a little mush to him. I fell in love from page one.
Together, Tommy and Lil are perfection. You can feel their connection burning through the pages (screen, whatever), and are just waiting for them to realize it and get together. There is so much angst here, I was about to burst. It's crystal clear these two are made for each other. Their banter stems from years of partnerships, and it feels real. This isn't some forced relationship. You get the feeling there's something at work. You'll be screaming at the stubbornness, and if you're like me, frustrated and wanting to throw your ereader. But, I loved it!
Once Lil travels to the past, the story really picks up. Her rescuer, Will Shaw, is hot. He's a former soldier himself, and now runs his parents' farm. And to top it all off, he's sweet, and may be harboring some feelings for Lil. I love Will, too, but not in the same way I love Tommy. His connection with Lil is obvious, but it's in a different manner than the one she shares with Tommy.
The story had me glued to my iPad screen. I LOVE serial killer cases, so I was psyched that Ms. Soto decided to implement this to her romance novel. It's very clear she researched everything - Lil's thoughts regarding her case, predicament, and people around her are authentic to the way we perceive agents to be in real life. The fact that she is stuck in 1944, with no clues as to how to return home leave her with few options as to how she handles the situation. She's a 21st century woman stuck in a period where women are still not equals. Sure, some work, but that's simply because the men are at war. She has to blend in the best she can, while looking for her suspect from the future. It's all a bit crazy! There are some nail biting moments, some HELL YES! moments, and some awwww ones, too. There are also a couple moments that made me want to jump into the book and kick some Will Shaw ass, but I won't spoil them. There are some heartbreaking scenes that come from Tommy's POV. I wasn't expecting anything from his side of things, and when I got them, my heart did that weird thing where it hurts, aches, and clenches. I started to sweat a bit, and almost wanted to cry!
I love how certain scenes between Lil and Tommy were woven together. Esther's ability to tell a story, and well, kept me captivated. I cared about these characters. All of them. They felt like people I could know in real life. She has a talent for character development without overly describing things about them. You get to know them through their actions, not being told things about them. It's purely brilliant. And the way stories are meant to be told.
This debut is phenomenal. If you're looking for something outside the romance box, pick up Hold My Heart. Yes, it's book one of a trilogy. But the troubles faced in the first are resolved, and something new is being set up for book two. I am both worried and excited for it, but I trust Ms. Soto. I will read whatever story she wants to tell.
You're all capable of reading a book summary, so I'm not going to re-summarize the plot down here. Just know that the appeal of a romance featuring time travel was more than I could resist. Add to that the FBI/serial killer plot point, and I was SOLD.
Ileana (Lil) is a bad ass female protagonist. She's truly independent, but not without flaws. Her familial background is the major reason, but none of this makes her come across whiny and childish. She's managed to overcome it all, but still doesn't seem to realize she could be loved by anyone. She's emotionally closed off to most people. The few exceptions she makes even struggle to get through to her at times. Lil is someone I can look up to, and not feel as though I'm lowering any standards I've set for myself. She feels like a real woman, not someone who's overly perfect and unattainable.
Tommy is...
It's not often I feel that a male character is super swoonworthy (I've met the Maddox men, hello!), so he was a wonderful surprise. Tough as nails, hot as Hell, sweet, charismatic, and completely in love with Lil, Tommy is the man that all women want, and hope to settle down with. His Army background and FBI agent career give him that hardcore exterior we expect, but inside, he's got a little mush to him. I fell in love from page one.
Together, Tommy and Lil are perfection. You can feel their connection burning through the pages (screen, whatever), and are just waiting for them to realize it and get together. There is so much angst here, I was about to burst. It's crystal clear these two are made for each other. Their banter stems from years of partnerships, and it feels real. This isn't some forced relationship. You get the feeling there's something at work. You'll be screaming at the stubbornness, and if you're like me, frustrated and wanting to throw your ereader. But, I loved it!
Once Lil travels to the past, the story really picks up. Her rescuer, Will Shaw, is hot. He's a former soldier himself, and now runs his parents' farm. And to top it all off, he's sweet, and may be harboring some feelings for Lil. I love Will, too, but not in the same way I love Tommy. His connection with Lil is obvious, but it's in a different manner than the one she shares with Tommy.
The story had me glued to my iPad screen. I LOVE serial killer cases, so I was psyched that Ms. Soto decided to implement this to her romance novel. It's very clear she researched everything - Lil's thoughts regarding her case, predicament, and people around her are authentic to the way we perceive agents to be in real life. The fact that she is stuck in 1944, with no clues as to how to return home leave her with few options as to how she handles the situation. She's a 21st century woman stuck in a period where women are still not equals. Sure, some work, but that's simply because the men are at war. She has to blend in the best she can, while looking for her suspect from the future. It's all a bit crazy! There are some nail biting moments, some HELL YES! moments, and some awwww ones, too. There are also a couple moments that made me want to jump into the book and kick some Will Shaw ass, but I won't spoil them. There are some heartbreaking scenes that come from Tommy's POV. I wasn't expecting anything from his side of things, and when I got them, my heart did that weird thing where it hurts, aches, and clenches. I started to sweat a bit, and almost wanted to cry!
I love how certain scenes between Lil and Tommy were woven together. Esther's ability to tell a story, and well, kept me captivated. I cared about these characters. All of them. They felt like people I could know in real life. She has a talent for character development without overly describing things about them. You get to know them through their actions, not being told things about them. It's purely brilliant. And the way stories are meant to be told.
This debut is phenomenal. If you're looking for something outside the romance box, pick up Hold My Heart. Yes, it's book one of a trilogy. But the troubles faced in the first are resolved, and something new is being set up for book two. I am both worried and excited for it, but I trust Ms. Soto. I will read whatever story she wants to tell.
February 22, 2018
22/2 - How is it that I read the same book as all those giving this five stars?! I feel like I got a dud copy that was actually a first draft.
There was a cross-time love triangle, a possessive love interest, a cliff-hanger (despite what the author says in the Ask the Community section of the book page), and only mediocre editing that caused me to have Post-its sticking out everywhere. I really don't get the love for this book.
I couldn't stand Tommy. His chapters were compiled entirely of him wishing he had the guts to tell Lily how he feels and then berating himself for not having the guts and then berating himself for even thinking of her in the first place because he's nowhere near good enough to even be in Lily's presence. All of which would then be repeated in every successive Tommy chapter, with increasing hatred towards himself and every man who even sneezed in her direction. It quickly became tedious and I started skimming his chapters from about halfway through the book. I hate to think what Tommy might do after the arrival of the surprise guest at the end of the book. He'll probably go completely insane and cross the border between possessive and potentially abusive all the way over to committing manslaughter in a fit of rage.
The editing errors weren't the worst I've seen, but they were definitely irritating and drew me out of the story frequently so that I could Post-it the page for future reference.
The appearance of a cliff-hanger ending was a disappointing surprise, but reading Soto's response to a question about whether the book ends in a cliff-hanger was way more disappointing - "Not necessarily, the story continues, that's for sure, but matters are resolved. :) hope that helps!". If you're going to end your book with a cliff-hanger be up front about it because you can be sure that someone (like me) is going to add it their review and then it'll look like you either lied or were purposefully vague so those with cliff-hanger aversions wouldn't be put off reading your book. I'm not suggesting it should have been added to the GR summary, but when the question was asked outright she should have just been straightforward instead of trying to tap dance around the issue. I don't think I'll read the sequels, I think I'll just read a detailed review to see what happens next.
There was a cross-time love triangle, a possessive love interest, a cliff-hanger (despite what the author says in the Ask the Community section of the book page), and only mediocre editing that caused me to have Post-its sticking out everywhere. I really don't get the love for this book.
I couldn't stand Tommy. His chapters were compiled entirely of him wishing he had the guts to tell Lily how he feels and then berating himself for not having the guts and then berating himself for even thinking of her in the first place because he's nowhere near good enough to even be in Lily's presence. All of which would then be repeated in every successive Tommy chapter, with increasing hatred towards himself and every man who even sneezed in her direction. It quickly became tedious and I started skimming his chapters from about halfway through the book. I hate to think what Tommy might do after the arrival of the surprise guest at the end of the book. He'll probably go completely insane and cross the border between possessive and potentially abusive all the way over to committing manslaughter in a fit of rage.
The editing errors weren't the worst I've seen, but they were definitely irritating and drew me out of the story frequently so that I could Post-it the page for future reference.
The appearance of a cliff-hanger ending was a disappointing surprise, but reading Soto's response to a question about whether the book ends in a cliff-hanger was way more disappointing - "Not necessarily, the story continues, that's for sure, but matters are resolved. :) hope that helps!". If you're going to end your book with a cliff-hanger be up front about it because you can be sure that someone (like me) is going to add it their review and then it'll look like you either lied or were purposefully vague so those with cliff-hanger aversions wouldn't be put off reading your book. I'm not suggesting it should have been added to the GR summary, but when the question was asked outright she should have just been straightforward instead of trying to tap dance around the issue. I don't think I'll read the sequels, I think I'll just read a detailed review to see what happens next.
October 14, 2015
I have a friend that has been telling me to read this book since the day it came out but I kept putting it off—why? I have no clue. But I do know that I am now kicking myself for not reading Hold My Heart sooner! It was nothing at all like I expected. Granted, I didn't know much about the story going in other than it had something to do with time travel—I'm not going to tell you much else about it now—but that element was nothing at all like I imagined it would be.
It was SO MUCH BETTER.
It felt natural and like something that could happen in real life. It never gave off a paranormal vibe. And then the fact the lead characters were FBI agents working to find a serial killer? Yea, things just got way more interesting than I'd anticipated. Hold My Heart seriously kept me on my toes, nothing ever went the way I expected, and I was shocked over and over again as the story unfolded. It was a great reading experience, even if the romance side of things stressed me out constantly. You see, when I fall for a guy in a book, I'm done for and this book had my heart hurting so bad for a certain fella. Hold My Heart was just way more everything than I ever expected.
Now I'm nervously dying for the next book in the series. With that ending, I have no clue where things will go next. And maybe now I'll learn to listen to a certain friend's recommendations sooner, while trying to talk everyone I know into reading Hold My Heart. Hopefully, they'll listen better than I did.
It was SO MUCH BETTER.
It felt natural and like something that could happen in real life. It never gave off a paranormal vibe. And then the fact the lead characters were FBI agents working to find a serial killer? Yea, things just got way more interesting than I'd anticipated. Hold My Heart seriously kept me on my toes, nothing ever went the way I expected, and I was shocked over and over again as the story unfolded. It was a great reading experience, even if the romance side of things stressed me out constantly. You see, when I fall for a guy in a book, I'm done for and this book had my heart hurting so bad for a certain fella. Hold My Heart was just way more everything than I ever expected.
Now I'm nervously dying for the next book in the series. With that ending, I have no clue where things will go next. And maybe now I'll learn to listen to a certain friend's recommendations sooner, while trying to talk everyone I know into reading Hold My Heart. Hopefully, they'll listen better than I did.
April 12, 2016
I loved every minute of this book!! Tommy had my heart from chapter 1!! Highly recommended❤️
Ileana is a stubborn badass! Loved her character she was tough, brave and (even though she didn't think so)LOVABLE!!
Tommy is pretty perfect. He's funny, loving, protective, hot and totally in love!
When Lil time traveled I knew things were going to get crazy but I totally did not expect to fall in love with Will too! But how could I not he is sweet, caring and pretty wonderful.
And that cliffhanger! Ahh
I loved this book and I can not wait for the next story!!!
Ileana is a stubborn badass! Loved her character she was tough, brave and (even though she didn't think so)LOVABLE!!
Tommy is pretty perfect. He's funny, loving, protective, hot and totally in love!
When Lil time traveled I knew things were going to get crazy but I totally did not expect to fall in love with Will too! But how could I not he is sweet, caring and pretty wonderful.
And that cliffhanger! Ahh
I loved this book and I can not wait for the next story!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2014
Hold My Heart first captured my attention with that beautiful cover, and then with its prologue. It was just enough to have me wondering what I had gotten myself into. Usually, I shy away from fantasy or paranormal, preferring a more realistic approach. But lately, I've been disenchanted with reading, tired of the same type of story, over and over again. I've been craving creativity and a different approach. Reading the prologue, I knew I was going to get just that. After finishing the first chapter, I had a strong feeling I was going to love this book. What I didn't expect was to be so consumed by this story.
Esther M. Soto amazed me with her creativity and character depth in Hold My Heart. It is obvious that she spent hours drafting a timeline for this book and connecting all the dots in the story. Every word and action each of these characters make is significant. This book is so much more than a romance. It is a story about finding yourself, love and destiny. Fate is a funny thing. Have you ever wondered about the what if's in your life? What if I would have ended up with my first love? What if my parents wouldn't have met? I know I have. It kind of funny how destiny plays such a huge part in each our lives. I know it is only human to wonder if our present and future would be the same if we have made different choices. Would we be happier, more successful or would our lives have ended up the same. Every action we take determines our future and Ileana is about to learn this firsthand.
While searching for a serial killer, Ileana is ripped from the present and sent back to a time when things were much different. The strong and determined Ileana starts to question everything she knows about herself. Ileana was raised by a selfish and unloving mother. Instead of dwelling on her unfortunate upbringing, she takes control of her life and focuses on a career. Ileana is one of the most humble characters I have ever read. She is badass but uses her job as more of a shield, and is completely unaware of how desirable she is. She has spent so many years closing herself off and just existing that she has yet to really enjoy life and appreciate the few relationships she has developed. While in the past and with the help of a stranger, she learns a lot more about herself than she ever expected. What, you ask? Well you will have to pick this one up and discover for yourself?
Step out of your comfort zone like I did and fall in love with the characters of this book. I promise you won't regret it! I'm completely in love with them and I can't wait for the next part of the series. I have no idea which direction Esther M. Soto is going to go and honestly, I don't care. I just want more.
Esther M. Soto amazed me with her creativity and character depth in Hold My Heart. It is obvious that she spent hours drafting a timeline for this book and connecting all the dots in the story. Every word and action each of these characters make is significant. This book is so much more than a romance. It is a story about finding yourself, love and destiny. Fate is a funny thing. Have you ever wondered about the what if's in your life? What if I would have ended up with my first love? What if my parents wouldn't have met? I know I have. It kind of funny how destiny plays such a huge part in each our lives. I know it is only human to wonder if our present and future would be the same if we have made different choices. Would we be happier, more successful or would our lives have ended up the same. Every action we take determines our future and Ileana is about to learn this firsthand.
While searching for a serial killer, Ileana is ripped from the present and sent back to a time when things were much different. The strong and determined Ileana starts to question everything she knows about herself. Ileana was raised by a selfish and unloving mother. Instead of dwelling on her unfortunate upbringing, she takes control of her life and focuses on a career. Ileana is one of the most humble characters I have ever read. She is badass but uses her job as more of a shield, and is completely unaware of how desirable she is. She has spent so many years closing herself off and just existing that she has yet to really enjoy life and appreciate the few relationships she has developed. While in the past and with the help of a stranger, she learns a lot more about herself than she ever expected. What, you ask? Well you will have to pick this one up and discover for yourself?
Step out of your comfort zone like I did and fall in love with the characters of this book. I promise you won't regret it! I'm completely in love with them and I can't wait for the next part of the series. I have no idea which direction Esther M. Soto is going to go and honestly, I don't care. I just want more.
May 27, 2016
Too much pointless drama. Ileana and Tommy were FBI agents. Just like every other book with characters who are in law enforcement, they had bad childhoods. They were trying to catch a serial killer although this was forgotten about for large portions of the book. In the first third of the book it alternated between Ileana's and Tommy's POV. She was attracted to him but was in denial about it. He wanted to be with her although he mainly thought about how sexy she was. Of course neither of them would express their feelings so there was lots of drama all due to miscommunication. That alone was enough to make me want to DNF this.
Then Ileana went back in time to 1940's. Unfortunately time travel didn't make this book more exciting. It was even more boring in the past. All of the characters there were too similar and nice. I would have expected her to be more driven to find her way home. Most of the time her FBI case and partner Tommy were forgotten about. She did meet some relatives in the past, but none of that revealed anything interesting.
When she went back in time, she met Will. She was instantly attracted to him for no other reason than he was gorgeous. They barely knew anything about each other but had strong feelings for each other. Will was boring. I didn't like him because he wanted her to conform to what he expected a woman to be like rather than letting her be herself. Then she was torn between wanting Will and Tommy although they weren't in the same time period. I hate love triangles. I never would have read this if I had known there was one. It ended with a dramatic cliffhanger, which ensured I will not read the rest of this series, not that I would have anyway.
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Then Ileana went back in time to 1940's. Unfortunately time travel didn't make this book more exciting. It was even more boring in the past. All of the characters there were too similar and nice. I would have expected her to be more driven to find her way home. Most of the time her FBI case and partner Tommy were forgotten about. She did meet some relatives in the past, but none of that revealed anything interesting.
When she went back in time, she met Will. She was instantly attracted to him for no other reason than he was gorgeous. They barely knew anything about each other but had strong feelings for each other. Will was boring. I didn't like him because he wanted her to conform to what he expected a woman to be like rather than letting her be herself. Then she was torn between wanting Will and Tommy although they weren't in the same time period. I hate love triangles. I never would have read this if I had known there was one. It ended with a dramatic cliffhanger, which ensured I will not read the rest of this series, not that I would have anyway.
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2016
NetGalley copy in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Ileana, special agent for the FBI. She’s working on a case with her partner Tommy, and they’re looking for a serial killer, raping and murdering women.
While she investigates a field lost in the middle of nowhere, she disappears.
Literally.
And when she wakes up, it’s no longer 2013 but... 1944. How will she come back? And how can she solve her case from the past?
If you read only one thing from my review, let it be this: I. FREAKING. LOVE. THIS. BOOK!
The story is super interesting, and you get sucked in from the moment you start. Of course, there’s the main mystery with the investigation. But the author also manages to bring so many layers to her plot, and in the end you want to finish it because there are SO MANY QUESTIONS!
The characters are amazingly portrayed, and there are not too many of them, so it leaves enough space to know enough about them, which I really appreciated.
The writing style is rich, fast, intriguing, and it suits the story perfectly. I especially liked the two povs (Ileana/Tommy), without having a 50/50 ratio. Ileana remains the main character, with a few touches from Tommy, to get his perspective on some aspects of the story. I loved that. Ileana is a superb main character, by the way.
This story will leave you hanging, especially if you love mysteries. It’s wonderfully crafted, full of twists and turns, I couldn’t put it down.
This is the story of Ileana, special agent for the FBI. She’s working on a case with her partner Tommy, and they’re looking for a serial killer, raping and murdering women.
While she investigates a field lost in the middle of nowhere, she disappears.
Literally.
And when she wakes up, it’s no longer 2013 but... 1944. How will she come back? And how can she solve her case from the past?
If you read only one thing from my review, let it be this: I. FREAKING. LOVE. THIS. BOOK!
The story is super interesting, and you get sucked in from the moment you start. Of course, there’s the main mystery with the investigation. But the author also manages to bring so many layers to her plot, and in the end you want to finish it because there are SO MANY QUESTIONS!
The characters are amazingly portrayed, and there are not too many of them, so it leaves enough space to know enough about them, which I really appreciated.
The writing style is rich, fast, intriguing, and it suits the story perfectly. I especially liked the two povs (Ileana/Tommy), without having a 50/50 ratio. Ileana remains the main character, with a few touches from Tommy, to get his perspective on some aspects of the story. I loved that. Ileana is a superb main character, by the way.
This story will leave you hanging, especially if you love mysteries. It’s wonderfully crafted, full of twists and turns, I couldn’t put it down.
February 22, 2015
I can´t believe this is a debut novel, because holy moly, it´s so friggin good! I´m always open to something new, and this whole time traveling thing was totally new to me.
This book was a page turner,you can´t put it down. I can´t wait for the next one!!
This book was a page turner,you can´t put it down. I can´t wait for the next one!!
June 7, 2016
4.5 stars
Wow wow wow what can I say?? Hold My Heart for me is original and a completely different book to which I'm used to reading.
Ileana (Lil) disappears whilst investigating a serial killer , however she turns up in the past 1944 to be exact, Can Lil solve the case from the past?
One thing Lil does is researches her family will she find out any hidden secrets?or even find out more about herself?
I really like Lil's character she was stubborn, ballsy, strong, independent and lovable.
I loved Tommy from the get go he's Lil's partner in the investigation, he's hot as hell but also very sweet under that body of steel.
Urgghhhh the sexual tension between the two is so thick!!! All you do is scream at them both to get it on!!!
We meet Will when Lil travels into 1944, I like Will he was sweet and caring but Tommy was my number one.
Hold My Heart has so many twists and turns, angst and a strong plot with likeable characters, now book two needs to hurry up!!!
Wow wow wow what can I say?? Hold My Heart for me is original and a completely different book to which I'm used to reading.
Ileana (Lil) disappears whilst investigating a serial killer , however she turns up in the past 1944 to be exact, Can Lil solve the case from the past?
One thing Lil does is researches her family will she find out any hidden secrets?or even find out more about herself?
I really like Lil's character she was stubborn, ballsy, strong, independent and lovable.
I loved Tommy from the get go he's Lil's partner in the investigation, he's hot as hell but also very sweet under that body of steel.
Urgghhhh the sexual tension between the two is so thick!!! All you do is scream at them both to get it on!!!
We meet Will when Lil travels into 1944, I like Will he was sweet and caring but Tommy was my number one.
Hold My Heart has so many twists and turns, angst and a strong plot with likeable characters, now book two needs to hurry up!!!
September 11, 2016
Hold My Heart was a really nice surprise.
A friend of mine posted about and I added it to my TBR and when I learned what it was about a day or two later I just HAD to read it. And I'm super glad I did.
The story-telling in this book is perfect. Esther M. Soto is an amazing writer and I felt immersed into the story feom the start.
I felt like I was in Illeana's place. This book reminds me of one of my all time favorite series, specially the heroine and that just shows how special it is.
The characters are multi-dimensional and there's a background story that is just as intriguing as the story unfolding in the present (and past in this case). The story is built up and the pace is perfect, not too rushed, but straight to the point.
And the way it ended? I can't wait to know more about it!!
A friend of mine posted about and I added it to my TBR and when I learned what it was about a day or two later I just HAD to read it. And I'm super glad I did.
The story-telling in this book is perfect. Esther M. Soto is an amazing writer and I felt immersed into the story feom the start.
I felt like I was in Illeana's place. This book reminds me of one of my all time favorite series, specially the heroine and that just shows how special it is.
The characters are multi-dimensional and there's a background story that is just as intriguing as the story unfolding in the present (and past in this case). The story is built up and the pace is perfect, not too rushed, but straight to the point.
And the way it ended? I can't wait to know more about it!!
June 14, 2016
I received a copy of this book for free through NetGalley
Excuse my language, but that was fucking cool!
I picked this up because the premise sounded really cool but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was an awesome serial killer story at play. I did find this a little slow at first and it did take me a little while to warm up to the characters, but once I was in, I was all in. There is a strong love story in this and some swoon worthy men - in the past and the present - that I will admit made this a better story for me.
Need to get my hands on the next book!
Excuse my language, but that was fucking cool!
I picked this up because the premise sounded really cool but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was an awesome serial killer story at play. I did find this a little slow at first and it did take me a little while to warm up to the characters, but once I was in, I was all in. There is a strong love story in this and some swoon worthy men - in the past and the present - that I will admit made this a better story for me.
Need to get my hands on the next book!
February 22, 2015
AMAZING! I love this book! I want more, and I can't wait to read more from Esther M. Soto. Do yourself a favor and buy this book now, and read it ASAP! That's an order!
May 19, 2016
Ileana Harper and Tommy Colton are best friends and partners in the FBI working on a puzzling serial killer case. During the investigation things get complicated between the partners regarding their personal relationship. Ileana somehow time travels into the past when she is chasing the suspect.
I was immediately pulled into the story. Ileana and Tommy were very complex characters. I enjoyed learning about their pasts. I loved how close they were and how much they trusted each other. Even though they had so much to work through they never once were worried the other wouldn't be there for them.
Ileana and Tommy both were so broken by past things that happened in their life. They really needed each other. Even though they dealt with their problems differently they seemed to calm and balance each other.
The investigation was so interesting I was so into figuring out what happened and why Ileana traveled back in time also if she would be able to go back home.
I really enjoyed the parts set in the past the author really did a good job pulling me into the time period. I liked all the talk and discussion of the war between Will and his family. The ending definitely has me wanting to read book 2.
I recommend this book to anyone who love romance or romantic suspense and is looking for something that's not the same old story.
I received this book from Netgalley and the publisher for a honest review.
I was immediately pulled into the story. Ileana and Tommy were very complex characters. I enjoyed learning about their pasts. I loved how close they were and how much they trusted each other. Even though they had so much to work through they never once were worried the other wouldn't be there for them.
Ileana and Tommy both were so broken by past things that happened in their life. They really needed each other. Even though they dealt with their problems differently they seemed to calm and balance each other.
The investigation was so interesting I was so into figuring out what happened and why Ileana traveled back in time also if she would be able to go back home.
I really enjoyed the parts set in the past the author really did a good job pulling me into the time period. I liked all the talk and discussion of the war between Will and his family. The ending definitely has me wanting to read book 2.
I recommend this book to anyone who love romance or romantic suspense and is looking for something that's not the same old story.
I received this book from Netgalley and the publisher for a honest review.
March 25, 2015
There's a need to categorise in the reading community, a need to know about a book before we even open the cover. We want to know genre, whether to expect heartache, if the story is a standalone or if we should anticipate a cliffhanger. Myself included - mostly - in this generalisation. Sometimes, however, it's nice to go in blind. And that's what I did with Hold My Heart.
The first few chapters kind of annoyed me, mostly because I was already trying to predict where the story was going, and since I'm always right (okay, normally), I didn't understand why the male lead was introduced so quickly. I wrongfully predicted that since he was already there and in Ileana's life, I was about to read a stretched-too-thin story of friends becoming lovers. Don't get me wrong, I love those stories, but there has to be more.
There was so much more.
Clearly I can't go into how much more there actually was, but it was enough to keep me turning pages, glued to my seat, eyes bulging.
If you really must categorise, then I'd definitely start with romance, maybe follow with suspense and add a dash of parnormal. However you choose to label it, make sure to stick it high on the TBR pile.
The first few chapters kind of annoyed me, mostly because I was already trying to predict where the story was going, and since I'm always right (okay, normally), I didn't understand why the male lead was introduced so quickly. I wrongfully predicted that since he was already there and in Ileana's life, I was about to read a stretched-too-thin story of friends becoming lovers. Don't get me wrong, I love those stories, but there has to be more.
There was so much more.
Clearly I can't go into how much more there actually was, but it was enough to keep me turning pages, glued to my seat, eyes bulging.
If you really must categorise, then I'd definitely start with romance, maybe follow with suspense and add a dash of parnormal. However you choose to label it, make sure to stick it high on the TBR pile.
August 30, 2016
ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!
Wow! This book totally blew me away and had me sucked in from the off.
This is a gripping time-travel romantic suspense novel, that has everything I love in a good book.
I really don't want to give anything away, because this book is so good that I think it is best enjoyed by going in blind. I didn't even read the synopsis and I'm so pleased I didn't.
Full of twists and turns, I promise you that you won't be able to put this book down. I totally adored Lil and Tommy, and I was rooting for them so much. Their love story made me cry and swoon in equal measures.
The end if this story is incredible and finishes on such a massive cliffhanger. But the great news is, that the next book, Break My Heart, is out on September 8th! I can't wait to Read more!
This book is amazing. READ IT! NOW! I haven't been this excited over a book in a long time. Trust me on this one. One-click now!
Wow! This book totally blew me away and had me sucked in from the off.
This is a gripping time-travel romantic suspense novel, that has everything I love in a good book.
I really don't want to give anything away, because this book is so good that I think it is best enjoyed by going in blind. I didn't even read the synopsis and I'm so pleased I didn't.
Full of twists and turns, I promise you that you won't be able to put this book down. I totally adored Lil and Tommy, and I was rooting for them so much. Their love story made me cry and swoon in equal measures.
The end if this story is incredible and finishes on such a massive cliffhanger. But the great news is, that the next book, Break My Heart, is out on September 8th! I can't wait to Read more!
This book is amazing. READ IT! NOW! I haven't been this excited over a book in a long time. Trust me on this one. One-click now!
December 11, 2014
Highly recommend it! A well written time-travel suspense romance all rolled into one. I loved it!! Esther Soto's strength is writing the dialogue between the characters. It's smart and sassy. I love the way the characters banter with each other. Ileana, lead is character, is a smart, tough FBI agent with a difficult past. She is all business and keeps people at a distance. Her partner, Tommy, is a sexy, smart mouthed, hunk with a "panty-dropping smile". The connection they have goes back to their time together in Afghanistan. Ileana falls through time while chasing a suspect. What she discovers is shocking and the end will leave you speechless. A great read! I can't wait for book 2
May 4, 2016
I was blessed enough to be approved by NetGally to receive a free ebook copy of this book in exchange for my honest review which is as follows:
In my personal opinion this book has to be one of the top best books out of the currently 42 books I have read/reviewed for NetGally so far. I definitely didn’t see the ending coming at all or any of the other plot twists. I really enjoyed Lil's character and the love story between her and Tommy the most even though the "will they won't they" did get a bit tiresome. I really hope that I get to read/the next book in the series. Overall I personally rate this book a 9/10.
In my personal opinion this book has to be one of the top best books out of the currently 42 books I have read/reviewed for NetGally so far. I definitely didn’t see the ending coming at all or any of the other plot twists. I really enjoyed Lil's character and the love story between her and Tommy the most even though the "will they won't they" did get a bit tiresome. I really hope that I get to read/the next book in the series. Overall I personally rate this book a 9/10.
November 12, 2015
This book is incredible! It's so hard not for me to not jump right in and start talking about it, but I won't for those of you who haven't had a chance to read it yet. The characters are vivid and real, the plot is perfect, and I was never confused about how the book was unfolding. Illeana and Tommy will always hold a special place in my heart and I cannot wait to read more about them!
Let me just say, if you haven't already, read this book! It will change your life.
Let me just say, if you haven't already, read this book! It will change your life.
February 18, 2015
Hold My Heart is an AMAZING debut novel by Esther M. Soto! I haven't been able to get this book out of my head. To be honest, it was a breath of fresh air and exactly what I needed to get out of my reading funk. The character, the plot,...it's unlike any story I've ever read, and I'm absolutely hooked! I can't wait to see where Esther takes the story next!
January 28, 2015
Amazing & unique debut novel. Can't wait for the sequel!
December 12, 2014
3.5 Stars
The synopsis for Hold My Heart drew me in right away; that and the incredibly beautiful cover. Although time travel in a romance novel is not a new concept to me, it is an interesting one, and a refreshing one amongst the sea of standards that flood the indie community. This was really well written and clearly, thoroughly thought out. Which, one would hope to expect when dealing with a SciFi/Fantasy element in a story.
Ileana and Tommy are longtime friends and partners in the FBI. They have a history that bonds them on levels that surpass friendship. The intense connection they share builds the foundation that will keep them tied together, when, while on a hunt for a serial killer, they are torn apart.
This is told in dual POV, but mostly it’s Ileana’s voice that is heard. She is a strong, smart, beautiful woman with a dark past. Tommy, is also strong, smart and beautiful, and equally as tortured by his past. I know it weirds some people out to call a man beautiful but he is, and not just for his physical appearance. He sees Ileana as his equal, and at times I’d gather, superior. He takes care of her without hesitation, without question; they are each other’s other half, even before they truly acknowledge it on every level.
When Ileana disappears and wakes up in another time, that’s when things shifted just ever so slightly for me. Towards the fifty percent mark everything kind of slowed down a bit. I would have loved to have had Tommy’s POV intertwined while Ileana was separated from him, instead of waiting closer to the end to find out what he was going through without her. I could understand why Ileana would be careful while back in time, not trying to stick out; but was confused why she spent almost two weeks there before she started really trying to figure out how to get home and if what she was doing there had to do with the hunt for the serial killer. Not too much happened in those two weeks. But once Ileana realized she had allies where she was, she gathered herself up to finish out her case and work to get herself home; back to her time and back to Tommy. Just hold on because you are not going to be able to put this book down once Ileana starts to investigate the time and place she is in.
There were things I figured out and things I suspected or wondered about, but it didn’t stop the “aha” moments when twists to the story were revealed. I liked getting some history on Ileana’s family because it’s a big part of why she is who she is and the way she feels about herself. The end is fast paced so make sure you are somewhere you can’t be interrupted. Because you won’t want to miss the knock at the door! ;)
The synopsis for Hold My Heart drew me in right away; that and the incredibly beautiful cover. Although time travel in a romance novel is not a new concept to me, it is an interesting one, and a refreshing one amongst the sea of standards that flood the indie community. This was really well written and clearly, thoroughly thought out. Which, one would hope to expect when dealing with a SciFi/Fantasy element in a story.
Ileana and Tommy are longtime friends and partners in the FBI. They have a history that bonds them on levels that surpass friendship. The intense connection they share builds the foundation that will keep them tied together, when, while on a hunt for a serial killer, they are torn apart.
This is told in dual POV, but mostly it’s Ileana’s voice that is heard. She is a strong, smart, beautiful woman with a dark past. Tommy, is also strong, smart and beautiful, and equally as tortured by his past. I know it weirds some people out to call a man beautiful but he is, and not just for his physical appearance. He sees Ileana as his equal, and at times I’d gather, superior. He takes care of her without hesitation, without question; they are each other’s other half, even before they truly acknowledge it on every level.
When Ileana disappears and wakes up in another time, that’s when things shifted just ever so slightly for me. Towards the fifty percent mark everything kind of slowed down a bit. I would have loved to have had Tommy’s POV intertwined while Ileana was separated from him, instead of waiting closer to the end to find out what he was going through without her. I could understand why Ileana would be careful while back in time, not trying to stick out; but was confused why she spent almost two weeks there before she started really trying to figure out how to get home and if what she was doing there had to do with the hunt for the serial killer. Not too much happened in those two weeks. But once Ileana realized she had allies where she was, she gathered herself up to finish out her case and work to get herself home; back to her time and back to Tommy. Just hold on because you are not going to be able to put this book down once Ileana starts to investigate the time and place she is in.
There were things I figured out and things I suspected or wondered about, but it didn’t stop the “aha” moments when twists to the story were revealed. I liked getting some history on Ileana’s family because it’s a big part of why she is who she is and the way she feels about herself. The end is fast paced so make sure you are somewhere you can’t be interrupted. Because you won’t want to miss the knock at the door! ;)
September 4, 2016
Hold My Heart is a book like no other. A complicated yet spellbinding and unique kind of love story that had me on the edge of my seat. I honestly did not want to put it down. The author masterfully combines a decades long mystery with time travel and an unrequited love. Something I never thought to even want to explore but now that I have finished book 1 in this series I am desperate for more.
We get to watch as Ileana Harper and her devoted partner, Agent Tommy Colton, ignore their true feelings as they try to solve a case of a mass murderer that is much older than they are. You get to see how their playful banter, their subtle flirtatious nature and their strong work ethic make them a success. As they get closer to figuring out this very frustrating case, they are also closer to figuring out their feelings for each other. But in a flash, both figuratively and literally, Ileana disappears and nothing is ever the same.
This book is told in alternating POV's as well as different time-frames. As we get the rich history between Ileana and Tommy, we are treated to some sweet times between them. These are juxtaposed to where Ileana travels back in time, to when the case she is working on got it's horrific start. Going back and forth between the past and present never felt confusing. Nor did it take away from the underlying and burgeoning love between Ileana and Tommy. It is all so seamlessly crafted and you find yourself completely immersed in each and every word.
I'm quite sure I have never read a story quite like this one and am over the moon that there is much more to come. I could kick myself for not reading this gem sooner. Book 2, Break My Heart will be out September 8th and I will be among the many fans clamoring to see what happens next.
Very highly recommended. A tale that I loved from start to finish.
5+++ stars for a job so very well done!!
We get to watch as Ileana Harper and her devoted partner, Agent Tommy Colton, ignore their true feelings as they try to solve a case of a mass murderer that is much older than they are. You get to see how their playful banter, their subtle flirtatious nature and their strong work ethic make them a success. As they get closer to figuring out this very frustrating case, they are also closer to figuring out their feelings for each other. But in a flash, both figuratively and literally, Ileana disappears and nothing is ever the same.
This book is told in alternating POV's as well as different time-frames. As we get the rich history between Ileana and Tommy, we are treated to some sweet times between them. These are juxtaposed to where Ileana travels back in time, to when the case she is working on got it's horrific start. Going back and forth between the past and present never felt confusing. Nor did it take away from the underlying and burgeoning love between Ileana and Tommy. It is all so seamlessly crafted and you find yourself completely immersed in each and every word.
I'm quite sure I have never read a story quite like this one and am over the moon that there is much more to come. I could kick myself for not reading this gem sooner. Book 2, Break My Heart will be out September 8th and I will be among the many fans clamoring to see what happens next.
Very highly recommended. A tale that I loved from start to finish.
5+++ stars for a job so very well done!!
January 2, 2015
Hold my Heart is easily my favorite book of 2014. I mean look.... I came out of my self imposed review hideaway to write a review for this book. It was THAT good. I have always hated when someone claims “Readers of This Series will love this” Or “If you loved such and such you will love this.” Trust me, there is nothing you can compare Hold my Heart to. This is the most original book I have read in years. It was so refreshing to read something, and have NO CLUE where it was going. I’m usually able to figure out the outcome of a book fairly quickly, or see where things are going, but I was on the edge of my seat with this one. I had to keep reading to find out what was coming next.
I absolutely fell in love with the characters. I loved Lil, she was strong and determined, and unlike any female main character I have ever read before. She is a soldier first and foremost, so she can really handle anything herself. I really loved that about her. But there was really this one area of vulnerability about her, and that was her friendship with Tommy. Tommy was equally amazing, he is strong and loyal, and he has been with Lil for so many years, serving UNDER her in the military. How awesome is that? Then choosing a career that keeps him close to her. Their chemistry is what keeps the book so interesting.
The time travel aspect was one I wasn’t sure about. I’m a little picky about the time travel books I read, but this one was so great. They don’t go back to the middle ages, where Lil would have to wear a corset or something like that, because I’m relatively sure she would have murdered someone. It is done realistically and kept me interested the whole time.
Overall, I give it five stars, because I loved everything about it, and I can’t wait for book two in the series!
I absolutely fell in love with the characters. I loved Lil, she was strong and determined, and unlike any female main character I have ever read before. She is a soldier first and foremost, so she can really handle anything herself. I really loved that about her. But there was really this one area of vulnerability about her, and that was her friendship with Tommy. Tommy was equally amazing, he is strong and loyal, and he has been with Lil for so many years, serving UNDER her in the military. How awesome is that? Then choosing a career that keeps him close to her. Their chemistry is what keeps the book so interesting.
The time travel aspect was one I wasn’t sure about. I’m a little picky about the time travel books I read, but this one was so great. They don’t go back to the middle ages, where Lil would have to wear a corset or something like that, because I’m relatively sure she would have murdered someone. It is done realistically and kept me interested the whole time.
Overall, I give it five stars, because I loved everything about it, and I can’t wait for book two in the series!
December 9, 2014
How do I start this? I'm not very good at reviews but this book is so freaking good that I just had to share. It has a little bit of everything! Love! Mystery! Suspense! And even a little craziness. As soon as I started reading it, it sucked me in like 1944 did to Lil. Not your typical "love" story. It's so much better. So what are you waiting for?!?!?! One click this ASAP.
February 8, 2015
Need to read the sequel!!
December 31, 2014
I’ve always considered myself a one-genre reader being romance only and when this book came out, I was a little hesitant. So, I was pleasantly surprised when it was nothing what I expected. When I heard time travel, I was like okay, hmmm. As Esther’s debut novel, I must say she blew me away with this one.
You have a true mystery, with romance, and tenderness all thrown into one amazing book. It drew me in from the beginning and kept my attention throughout the entire book. The story is written so well that I actually forgot that it was paranormal. The time travel doesn’t end up overtaking this book and serves as a way to solve the murders along with having a lot of emotion.
Ileana and Tommy are FBI Agents on the manhunt for a serial killer. They have this unique bond besides just being partners. They are true friends that really stand the test of time, so to speak.
While on their search, Ileana has found a portal that takes her back in time. Back in time where everything seems so innocent. As lost as she is, she maintains her strength of being such a strong woman. I found her to be so independent and I love how well she did transition. At times, I did feel my heart breaking for her over how much she missed Tommy and the fact that she did realize how strong her feelings were for him, and not just because he was her partner.
While Ileana is gone, Tommy goes through pure hell. He feels so guilty since she has just disappeared into thin air. He thinks it’s his fault and it’s so heartbreaking to see a strong man fall apart. You can feel the love he has for her when he realizes he wants to be more than her partner.
As the story develops and time passes, Ileana finds herself closer to the suspect than she realized. I loved seeing the simpler things in life being brought out in this story. The characters are well thought out and you can tell this wasn’t one of those books that was just thrown together. This book took time and was well developed. I applaud Esther for a wonderful debut novel and I’m looking forward to reading more of her work in the future!
You have a true mystery, with romance, and tenderness all thrown into one amazing book. It drew me in from the beginning and kept my attention throughout the entire book. The story is written so well that I actually forgot that it was paranormal. The time travel doesn’t end up overtaking this book and serves as a way to solve the murders along with having a lot of emotion.
Ileana and Tommy are FBI Agents on the manhunt for a serial killer. They have this unique bond besides just being partners. They are true friends that really stand the test of time, so to speak.
While on their search, Ileana has found a portal that takes her back in time. Back in time where everything seems so innocent. As lost as she is, she maintains her strength of being such a strong woman. I found her to be so independent and I love how well she did transition. At times, I did feel my heart breaking for her over how much she missed Tommy and the fact that she did realize how strong her feelings were for him, and not just because he was her partner.
While Ileana is gone, Tommy goes through pure hell. He feels so guilty since she has just disappeared into thin air. He thinks it’s his fault and it’s so heartbreaking to see a strong man fall apart. You can feel the love he has for her when he realizes he wants to be more than her partner.
As the story develops and time passes, Ileana finds herself closer to the suspect than she realized. I loved seeing the simpler things in life being brought out in this story. The characters are well thought out and you can tell this wasn’t one of those books that was just thrown together. This book took time and was well developed. I applaud Esther for a wonderful debut novel and I’m looking forward to reading more of her work in the future!
March 5, 2016
My Review: http://triciaciak.blogspot.com/2016/0...
5 stars!
What a pleasant surprise this book was. It was recommended to me by some book friends and with how much they raved over it I moved it up my TBR list. I read this book awhile ago and could have swore I reviewed it. I went to look it up and realized it was sitting in my draft waiting for a review.
So anyways I need to tell you how good this book was! It was different than anything I've read and it continued to take me by surprise. This is a time travel romance and the author did her research. Wow she was spot on in the time that she took us to. I don't want to get into the book too much because I think you should go in blind. Our heroine Ileana is a strong independent woman, she works hard and doesn't take shit from anyone. Her best friend Tommy is her partner with the FBI, they are a on hunt to catch the killer of a series of murders when something happens to bring Ileana back into time.
That's where she meets Will and he tries to help her with the mess of a situation she's in.
This book was brilliant, I couldn't put it down and when I wasn't reading, I kept thinking about it. It had everything, suspense, romance, time-travel, and some humor thrown in too. I really can't say enough good things about this book. This was Esther's debut novel and what a debut it was! Her writing was impeccable and you would never know this was a debut, such a beautifully written story that left me with my mouth hanging open wanting more. I can't wait for the next book in this series! Hold My Heart is such an original story and I highly recommend.
5 stars!
What a pleasant surprise this book was. It was recommended to me by some book friends and with how much they raved over it I moved it up my TBR list. I read this book awhile ago and could have swore I reviewed it. I went to look it up and realized it was sitting in my draft waiting for a review.
So anyways I need to tell you how good this book was! It was different than anything I've read and it continued to take me by surprise. This is a time travel romance and the author did her research. Wow she was spot on in the time that she took us to. I don't want to get into the book too much because I think you should go in blind. Our heroine Ileana is a strong independent woman, she works hard and doesn't take shit from anyone. Her best friend Tommy is her partner with the FBI, they are a on hunt to catch the killer of a series of murders when something happens to bring Ileana back into time.
That's where she meets Will and he tries to help her with the mess of a situation she's in.
This book was brilliant, I couldn't put it down and when I wasn't reading, I kept thinking about it. It had everything, suspense, romance, time-travel, and some humor thrown in too. I really can't say enough good things about this book. This was Esther's debut novel and what a debut it was! Her writing was impeccable and you would never know this was a debut, such a beautifully written story that left me with my mouth hanging open wanting more. I can't wait for the next book in this series! Hold My Heart is such an original story and I highly recommend.
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