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Hold Me Instead
Charlie Harris knows she’s more than her vaginismus. That doesn’t erase the fact that she’s technically a 32 year-old virgin who can’t use a tampon—and not for lack of trying. If anxiety and humiliation keep her from telling her best friend, how can she explain it to a partner? Romance seems inconceivable, so she devotes herself to judgment-free animals and her career as a veterinarian, preparing to take over her mentor’s Elmwood Falls practice once he retires.
Zachary Lee moved away from Elmwood Falls for love, but it left him divorced, unemployed, and estranged from his father. When his dad has a heart attack and faces a long recovery, Zachary returns home and steps in as the temporary veterinarian for his dad's animal hospital. He's ready to prove he’s needed. Wanted. Somewhere. Except he’s not the one in charge—that would be Charlie, the complicated fixture from his past.
It’s been years since they worked together as vet students, but that doesn’t stop Charlie’s old crush on Zachary from resurfacing. Nor does it stop Zachary from being charmed by Charlie and her pet-festive scrubs. As they pour their hearts into the hospital, their dormant friendship returns, igniting a passion that surprises them both. When the practice is at risk of slipping away, they must weather their feelings and find a way to save it—together—even if it means never getting to hold one another again.
Zachary Lee moved away from Elmwood Falls for love, but it left him divorced, unemployed, and estranged from his father. When his dad has a heart attack and faces a long recovery, Zachary returns home and steps in as the temporary veterinarian for his dad's animal hospital. He's ready to prove he’s needed. Wanted. Somewhere. Except he’s not the one in charge—that would be Charlie, the complicated fixture from his past.
It’s been years since they worked together as vet students, but that doesn’t stop Charlie’s old crush on Zachary from resurfacing. Nor does it stop Zachary from being charmed by Charlie and her pet-festive scrubs. As they pour their hearts into the hospital, their dormant friendship returns, igniting a passion that surprises them both. When the practice is at risk of slipping away, they must weather their feelings and find a way to save it—together—even if it means never getting to hold one another again.
396 pages, Paperback
Published August 28, 2025
9 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Andrea D’Alessio
1 book9 followersAndrea writes sizzling romance sparked by heart. If she’s not writing or reading, she’s spending time with her husband, son and cats, or trying to grow at least one strawberry in the garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 10, 2025
Book 35 of 2025 - ☑️! (Also Book 7 of 2025.) Hold Me Instead by Andrea D’Alessio. Thank you to Luna Literacy and Andrea D’Alessio for an ARC of Hold Me Instead by Andrea D’Alessio.
I’ve been eagerly awaiting to review this book, as I’ve had the pleasure of reading 3 different drafts - 1 as a very early reader, 1 as a Beta reader and now, this ARC.
Light your fall candles while you sip on hot chocolate or cider and eat some snickerdoodle cookies because D’Alessio immediately transports the reader in to fall in Elmwood Falls - a small town in Wisconsin - and home to protagonists Charlie & Zachary. Both vets, Charlie’s career has been at Elmwood Falls Veterinary Clinic, owned by Zachary’s father. Zachary has been living in Chicago and returns home after a couple of major events in his life, one which also affects Charlie. In Zachary’s return home, Charlie’s old crush turns into mutual liking when Zachary begins to reciprocate feelings, and as the book progresses, they learn navigate life as professionals and as a couple.
This friends-to-lovers romance and stunning debut novel has so many things I enjoy in a solid romance novel: well-crafted, diverse characters, vivid descriptions, smart dialogue and tough subjects that are handled with the utmost care. I can’t think of another novel that I’ve read where the FMC has vaginismus. Both MCs are in the 30s. There is open-door spice, which is so well-written. This book can be classified as a slow-burn, and while I’m someone who often feels like the slow part of the book can drag, this does not happen here because the pacing is spot-on.
This wonderful 1st novel from D’Alessio and in the Elmwood Falls series gets a 2.5/5 🌶️ & 5/5 ⭐️ from me. I can’t wait for book 2, and for more books by Andrea D’Alessio! #HoldMeInstead 🐾🥼🍪
I’ve been eagerly awaiting to review this book, as I’ve had the pleasure of reading 3 different drafts - 1 as a very early reader, 1 as a Beta reader and now, this ARC.
Light your fall candles while you sip on hot chocolate or cider and eat some snickerdoodle cookies because D’Alessio immediately transports the reader in to fall in Elmwood Falls - a small town in Wisconsin - and home to protagonists Charlie & Zachary. Both vets, Charlie’s career has been at Elmwood Falls Veterinary Clinic, owned by Zachary’s father. Zachary has been living in Chicago and returns home after a couple of major events in his life, one which also affects Charlie. In Zachary’s return home, Charlie’s old crush turns into mutual liking when Zachary begins to reciprocate feelings, and as the book progresses, they learn navigate life as professionals and as a couple.
This friends-to-lovers romance and stunning debut novel has so many things I enjoy in a solid romance novel: well-crafted, diverse characters, vivid descriptions, smart dialogue and tough subjects that are handled with the utmost care. I can’t think of another novel that I’ve read where the FMC has vaginismus. Both MCs are in the 30s. There is open-door spice, which is so well-written. This book can be classified as a slow-burn, and while I’m someone who often feels like the slow part of the book can drag, this does not happen here because the pacing is spot-on.
This wonderful 1st novel from D’Alessio and in the Elmwood Falls series gets a 2.5/5 🌶️ & 5/5 ⭐️ from me. I can’t wait for book 2, and for more books by Andrea D’Alessio! #HoldMeInstead 🐾🥼🍪
August 17, 2025
Hold Me Instead
Reading this book is like spending the holidays in a Stars Hollow type quaint town where everything smells delicious and is decorated to perfection. The dream of a walkable town with handmade furniture, food, artisanal soaps, and perfumes! And, the looming threat of major corporation taking over the vet that Zachary’s family owns, and Charlie has been working at since she was in high school.
The female main character Charlie has vaginismus, a sexual pain disorder. Because of this she is technically a 32 year old virgin. I am SO HAPPY to see female pelvic pain represented in romance novels! And done exceptionally well! Causes, diagnosis process, and treatments are all shown throughout the story. She does such an amazing job of demonstrating the affect of the disorder on Charlie in her relationships and her self esteem. And finally shout out to pelvic physical therapist in romance novels!! They really should be more prevalent in this genre given all the bumping and grinding 🤣
Both main characters are in their 30’s and I appreciate having the perspective of grown main characters navigating mature friendships, family lives, and careers.
This book also made me want a snickerdoodle cookie so badly I baked a batch after reading it. So be warned.
Reading this book is like spending the holidays in a Stars Hollow type quaint town where everything smells delicious and is decorated to perfection. The dream of a walkable town with handmade furniture, food, artisanal soaps, and perfumes! And, the looming threat of major corporation taking over the vet that Zachary’s family owns, and Charlie has been working at since she was in high school.
The female main character Charlie has vaginismus, a sexual pain disorder. Because of this she is technically a 32 year old virgin. I am SO HAPPY to see female pelvic pain represented in romance novels! And done exceptionally well! Causes, diagnosis process, and treatments are all shown throughout the story. She does such an amazing job of demonstrating the affect of the disorder on Charlie in her relationships and her self esteem. And finally shout out to pelvic physical therapist in romance novels!! They really should be more prevalent in this genre given all the bumping and grinding 🤣
Both main characters are in their 30’s and I appreciate having the perspective of grown main characters navigating mature friendships, family lives, and careers.
This book also made me want a snickerdoodle cookie so badly I baked a batch after reading it. So be warned.
August 26, 2025
A great holiday Stars Hollow vibe of a cozy read. Charlie is a veterinarian working for Zachary's dad. Zachary comes home after 6 years when his marriage ends and his father has a heart attack. Being around Zachary brings back old feelings and they work so well together. Soon they grow closer and begin a relationship even though he plans on moving back to Chicago. What happens when things start becoming more?
The book was so great explaining a few women's health issues and the struggles women can face. Charlie was open and real with her experience. Zachary was patient and understanding with everything.
The book was so great explaining a few women's health issues and the struggles women can face. Charlie was open and real with her experience. Zachary was patient and understanding with everything.
September 1, 2025
Know what makes a romance even better? When there’s animals involved! Charlie & Zachary both made me tear up and made my heart leap.
Thank you for providing me with an ARC of this book to read and review!
Thank you for providing me with an ARC of this book to read and review!
August 29, 2025
Small town, fall vibes. MMC and FMC both in their 30s. It was a little hard for me to get going (but I am a mood reader 🤣🤣🤣) definitely something to start the spooky season off with 🍂🍁🎃
September 30, 2025
Receiving this ARC could not have come at a better time. This is the time of the year that I start watching Hallmark movies and this books just like one. It has small town holiday vibes and an angsty friends to lover romance. Just one small difference is that it tackles a delicate subject of vaginismus- but it handles it with tact and respect. I really enjoyed this book and it put me in the Holiday Mood.
September 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this but gee, I wanted to love this. Vets in love, workplace friends to more, a womens health angle, cute sidekick animals and a cute town. All the markers for a satisfying weekend read.
The cosy meandering nature of the story wasn't always enough to keep me invested. We were introduced to a big cohort of characters who I believe will populate an ongoing series and trying to keep up with them was difficult. There was a sister, a cousin, a friend, another friend, another sister...there was a cast and I couldn't keep track of who was important.
Charlie has always wanted to be a vet. She started at the clinic as a teen and over the years has been mentored and stayed with the promised future of a clinic of her own. The owners son, Zachary, also a vet, left town to work elsewhere but when dear old dad has a heartattack, Zachary comes back to town.
I would have loved the non-romantic tension to be amped up - was the biggest baddie the corporate greedy company or the retiring physician who couldn't communicate? I'll let you be the judge.
The women's health conversation was where my investment was. I would have loved this to push further into exploring love that does not culminate with penetration. I actually thought we might have a couple who explored outside the 'normal' heteronormative expectations of penetrative sex. I love that the author wrote a pelvic floor physio and access to health care into the story but also acknowledged how difficult diagnosis and treatment can be.
Does Zachary ever become Zac? The formality of the name was a little off putting. I will give credit that the character of Zachary was trying to do the right thing by everyone. He was a great book boyfriend. What I did find was holding the main characters relationship at arms length for the majority of the story held their couple from finding 'flow'.
I'll certainly be staying to see what the author produces next. You can tell as a reader that the author has a vision for this series and that is exciting.
With thanks to the author, Andrea D'Alessio and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read Hold Me Instead as an eARC ahead of publication. All opinions are my own.
The cosy meandering nature of the story wasn't always enough to keep me invested. We were introduced to a big cohort of characters who I believe will populate an ongoing series and trying to keep up with them was difficult. There was a sister, a cousin, a friend, another friend, another sister...there was a cast and I couldn't keep track of who was important.
Charlie has always wanted to be a vet. She started at the clinic as a teen and over the years has been mentored and stayed with the promised future of a clinic of her own. The owners son, Zachary, also a vet, left town to work elsewhere but when dear old dad has a heartattack, Zachary comes back to town.
I would have loved the non-romantic tension to be amped up - was the biggest baddie the corporate greedy company or the retiring physician who couldn't communicate? I'll let you be the judge.
The women's health conversation was where my investment was. I would have loved this to push further into exploring love that does not culminate with penetration. I actually thought we might have a couple who explored outside the 'normal' heteronormative expectations of penetrative sex. I love that the author wrote a pelvic floor physio and access to health care into the story but also acknowledged how difficult diagnosis and treatment can be.
Does Zachary ever become Zac? The formality of the name was a little off putting. I will give credit that the character of Zachary was trying to do the right thing by everyone. He was a great book boyfriend. What I did find was holding the main characters relationship at arms length for the majority of the story held their couple from finding 'flow'.
I'll certainly be staying to see what the author produces next. You can tell as a reader that the author has a vision for this series and that is exciting.
With thanks to the author, Andrea D'Alessio and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read Hold Me Instead as an eARC ahead of publication. All opinions are my own.
September 6, 2025
Thanks to the author for the ARC, I really enjoyed it - but certain parts weren't quite for me.
Charlie and Zachary. They’ve been friends since young and she’s now running his father’s vet practice, following his father being indisposed owing to his heart attack. Zachary is back in town, having originally left to be part of his now-ex-wife’s family vet practice – and subsequently being fired, after the divorce. He’s got a chip on his shoulder that Charlie is going to be inheriting the practice but knows it’s the right thing to do, since he wasn’t around. He’s back to help and while she’s suspicious of his intentions, in the beginning, they navigate the tension and resistance in the professional environment – which obviously parlays into some serious chemistry in the personal realm.
First – let’s talk good stuff, and there’s quite a lot. It’s a very cute and entertaining story. There’s some interesting twists and turns, not just for the MCs. I pictured Stars Fall type small town atmosphere and community that rallies around the small business there (including the vet practice). Perfect backdrop for a romantic love story. There’s also quite a bit of diversity in the characters and their backgrounds, including Charlie’s vaginismus condition.
What didn’t resonate with me as much – it was a very full cast of characters and I wasn’t always clear as to the role of some of them. It was a little difficult to keep track of everyone’s story, not to mention a little tiring. This was my main gripe as I felt it derailed the story and distracted from the main Charlie-Zachary dynamic.
Overall, wasn’t for me but I do think it’s a fun read and if you like the good stuff, then it’s absolutely worth a shot.
Charlie and Zachary. They’ve been friends since young and she’s now running his father’s vet practice, following his father being indisposed owing to his heart attack. Zachary is back in town, having originally left to be part of his now-ex-wife’s family vet practice – and subsequently being fired, after the divorce. He’s got a chip on his shoulder that Charlie is going to be inheriting the practice but knows it’s the right thing to do, since he wasn’t around. He’s back to help and while she’s suspicious of his intentions, in the beginning, they navigate the tension and resistance in the professional environment – which obviously parlays into some serious chemistry in the personal realm.
First – let’s talk good stuff, and there’s quite a lot. It’s a very cute and entertaining story. There’s some interesting twists and turns, not just for the MCs. I pictured Stars Fall type small town atmosphere and community that rallies around the small business there (including the vet practice). Perfect backdrop for a romantic love story. There’s also quite a bit of diversity in the characters and their backgrounds, including Charlie’s vaginismus condition.
What didn’t resonate with me as much – it was a very full cast of characters and I wasn’t always clear as to the role of some of them. It was a little difficult to keep track of everyone’s story, not to mention a little tiring. This was my main gripe as I felt it derailed the story and distracted from the main Charlie-Zachary dynamic.
Overall, wasn’t for me but I do think it’s a fun read and if you like the good stuff, then it’s absolutely worth a shot.
August 29, 2025
"She was the stillness and, yet, embodied the storm."
Oh Zachary....I loved his thoughts when just looking at Charlie just as much as dialogue he actually says to her. These two were such a fun read. I have not come across many veterinarian books but now feel the need to read more.
I love the comradery between these two. Yes, Charlie has crushed on him but first and foremost they were friends. It takes a hot minute for them to get back to that friendship level upon Zachary arriving back in town. Having worked for his father since high school they go way back. Sadly, Zachary has some ill feelings towards her at first because of something completely out of her control. It isn't long before he starts to warm up to her.
Poor, Charlie...my heart broke for her sweet soul. From having the medical condition to running herself ragged at the vet clinic she has worked at for so long. She deserves a man in her life who will have her back and I love that she finds it with Zachary. She has this innocence about her that makes her all the more loveable as the FMC. You cannot help but cheer her on the entire time.
If you like a cozy small town read sprinkled with found family and adorable pets along with humor and excellent side characters then definitely check this one out. I look forward to more from Ms. D'Alessio.
Oh Zachary....I loved his thoughts when just looking at Charlie just as much as dialogue he actually says to her. These two were such a fun read. I have not come across many veterinarian books but now feel the need to read more.
I love the comradery between these two. Yes, Charlie has crushed on him but first and foremost they were friends. It takes a hot minute for them to get back to that friendship level upon Zachary arriving back in town. Having worked for his father since high school they go way back. Sadly, Zachary has some ill feelings towards her at first because of something completely out of her control. It isn't long before he starts to warm up to her.
Poor, Charlie...my heart broke for her sweet soul. From having the medical condition to running herself ragged at the vet clinic she has worked at for so long. She deserves a man in her life who will have her back and I love that she finds it with Zachary. She has this innocence about her that makes her all the more loveable as the FMC. You cannot help but cheer her on the entire time.
If you like a cozy small town read sprinkled with found family and adorable pets along with humor and excellent side characters then definitely check this one out. I look forward to more from Ms. D'Alessio.
August 26, 2025
Hold Me Instead is the debut novel for Andrea D’Alessio and is the first book in the Elmwood Falls series. The action centers around a longtime family owned veterinary hospital and the legacy and future of it.
Characters:
Dr. Zachary Lee, age 35
Dr. Charlotte “Charlie” Harris, age 32
I was drawn to this book because of the background of it being around a veterinary hospital. At times I had a hard time suspending belief around the story. They definitely thinly veil real things happening in the veterinary field and at times I felt a little “in the weeds” with details.
The two veterinarians are really interesting because of the conflicts on ideas about how to run the business. There is definitely the push/pull of business vs personal. The romance is slow and sweet, and partially second chance. Zachary is the perfect partner for Charlie to grow and experiment with in light of her health.
What to expect:
Dual POV
MMC’s in their 30’s
Friends to lovers
Slow burn
Veterinarians
Mental & women’s health rep
Spice:
🌶️🌶️/5
Because of the storyline and plot points, the lower level of spice is appropriate.
I rated this a 3.5 but rounded up.
Thank you Andrea D’Alessio and Luna Literary Management for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
Characters:
Dr. Zachary Lee, age 35
Dr. Charlotte “Charlie” Harris, age 32
I was drawn to this book because of the background of it being around a veterinary hospital. At times I had a hard time suspending belief around the story. They definitely thinly veil real things happening in the veterinary field and at times I felt a little “in the weeds” with details.
The two veterinarians are really interesting because of the conflicts on ideas about how to run the business. There is definitely the push/pull of business vs personal. The romance is slow and sweet, and partially second chance. Zachary is the perfect partner for Charlie to grow and experiment with in light of her health.
What to expect:
Dual POV
MMC’s in their 30’s
Friends to lovers
Slow burn
Veterinarians
Mental & women’s health rep
Spice:
🌶️🌶️/5
Because of the storyline and plot points, the lower level of spice is appropriate.
I rated this a 3.5 but rounded up.
Thank you Andrea D’Alessio and Luna Literary Management for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
August 27, 2025
Charlie is content being a vet at her hometown practice, believing she doesn’t need romance when she has animals. She knows she’s taking the practice over when her boss retires, so her future is set. Until her boss has a heart attack and his son comes back to town to help out. Charlie and Zachary used to be friends, they worked together when he was home from college, but that all changed when he left for love and learnt he wasn’t getting his dad’s practice. Now he’s divorced, jobless and jaded and fighting his attraction to Charlie as hard and she is fighting hers to him. But the longer they spend together the harder it is to resist. But when the future of the practice is in jeopardy, is it a choice between saving it and saving their relationship? Or can they really have both?
I really liked this! It was a sweet romance that was nestled into the plot lines of rebuilding relationships, trust and friendship. The balance between the plot and the romance was perfect, one didn’t overwhelm the other and they were perfectly woven together- you couldn’t have one without the other. I’m intrigued to see where this series goes because I have a feeling there are a lot of stories to be told in Elmwood Falls Village!
I really liked this! It was a sweet romance that was nestled into the plot lines of rebuilding relationships, trust and friendship. The balance between the plot and the romance was perfect, one didn’t overwhelm the other and they were perfectly woven together- you couldn’t have one without the other. I’m intrigued to see where this series goes because I have a feeling there are a lot of stories to be told in Elmwood Falls Village!
September 13, 2025
Hold Me Instead by Andrea D’Alessio centers on Charlie and Zachary’s story. Zachary returns to Elmwood Falls to help his father in managing his veterinary clinic. Charlie is also a vet working at the clinic and used to have a crush on Zachary. As they both work together to try to save the clinic, their friendship rebuilds and their feelings evolve.
I liked how women’s health was a central theme of the story as well. Charlie’s condition of vaginismus shows what women can encounter of trying to find a diagnosis for many years. Through her physical therapy, she wasn’t going to let it define her entirely. Zachary was very patient and understanding of Charlie, being there for her when / how she needed support.
I thought the pace of the story for a slow burn novel was good, enabling both characters to find their way to each other.
Readers who enjoy slow burn, small town stories will enjoy this book. There are open door scenes.
Thank you to Alicia Wilder and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I liked how women’s health was a central theme of the story as well. Charlie’s condition of vaginismus shows what women can encounter of trying to find a diagnosis for many years. Through her physical therapy, she wasn’t going to let it define her entirely. Zachary was very patient and understanding of Charlie, being there for her when / how she needed support.
I thought the pace of the story for a slow burn novel was good, enabling both characters to find their way to each other.
Readers who enjoy slow burn, small town stories will enjoy this book. There are open door scenes.
Thank you to Alicia Wilder and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
September 14, 2025
“She was the stillness and, yet, embodied the storm.”
I loved Zachary’s thoughts when he looked at Charlie. These two were such a fun read. I have not come across many veterinarian books, but now feel the need to read more, cause who doesn’t love animals?
My heart broke for Charlie. From having a chronic medical condition to running herself ragged at the vet clinic she has worked at for so long. She deserves a man in her life who will have her back, and I love that she finds it with Zachary.
However, I had a little trouble digesting a couple of things in the book. I’m not even sure who the main villain was: the corporate company taking over all small vet clinics, or an old veterinarian who had issues with communication. I mean, all of this could’ve been avoided with one simple conversation. Also, I hoped to see more of Charlie’s bond with Zachary’s family because it felt a little lacking for someone who was going to inherit the family business.
Anyway, I really liked the close-knit community and how everyone was so supportive of each other! Hope to see more of this group soon!
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Author Andrea D'Alessio for the ARC ✨
I loved Zachary’s thoughts when he looked at Charlie. These two were such a fun read. I have not come across many veterinarian books, but now feel the need to read more, cause who doesn’t love animals?
My heart broke for Charlie. From having a chronic medical condition to running herself ragged at the vet clinic she has worked at for so long. She deserves a man in her life who will have her back, and I love that she finds it with Zachary.
However, I had a little trouble digesting a couple of things in the book. I’m not even sure who the main villain was: the corporate company taking over all small vet clinics, or an old veterinarian who had issues with communication. I mean, all of this could’ve been avoided with one simple conversation. Also, I hoped to see more of Charlie’s bond with Zachary’s family because it felt a little lacking for someone who was going to inherit the family business.
Anyway, I really liked the close-knit community and how everyone was so supportive of each other! Hope to see more of this group soon!
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Author Andrea D'Alessio for the ARC ✨
August 25, 2025
Thank you Luna Literary and Andrea D'Alessio for the ARC.
In Hold Me Instead we meet Charlie and Zachary, two well established veterinarians. After his dad’s heart attack, Zachary returns to Elmwood Falls to help out at the clinic. Charlie is skeptical about why he’s helping out. What no one knows is that Charlie has had a crush on Zachary since they were kids working alongside each other in the clinic.
Hold Me Instead was just the book I needed after reading something really heavy. It gave me Gilmore Girls vibes right from the get-to. The MCs and the secondary characters really made this story enjoyable. Charlie had vaginismus(not a spoiler,I promise) and the way D’Alessio explains it and educates about the issue is really something beautiful. I love when authors make people feel seen, and they aren’t alone, and Hold Me Instead did that!
Add Hold Me Instead to your TBR now!
As always, check for trigger warnings before reading!
In Hold Me Instead we meet Charlie and Zachary, two well established veterinarians. After his dad’s heart attack, Zachary returns to Elmwood Falls to help out at the clinic. Charlie is skeptical about why he’s helping out. What no one knows is that Charlie has had a crush on Zachary since they were kids working alongside each other in the clinic.
Hold Me Instead was just the book I needed after reading something really heavy. It gave me Gilmore Girls vibes right from the get-to. The MCs and the secondary characters really made this story enjoyable. Charlie had vaginismus(not a spoiler,I promise) and the way D’Alessio explains it and educates about the issue is really something beautiful. I love when authors make people feel seen, and they aren’t alone, and Hold Me Instead did that!
Add Hold Me Instead to your TBR now!
As always, check for trigger warnings before reading!
August 28, 2025
Charlie (FMC) is a veterinarian who has worked under Daniel Lee for 10 years. Daniel has a heart-attack, so his son, Zach (MMC) , also a vet, comes home to help with the practice. Charlie also has vaginismus, and is finally working with a physical therapist to manage, but understandably so, has made things difficult in dating life.
Definitely some elements of found family, a little forced proximity, workplace romance, good representation of mental health, and the characters are in their 30’s which is always nice to see. The author did a great job of painting the scenery, I felt like I could really imagine the town’s vibes. Lower spice than I normally read, but I really enjoyed it. I think it felt really meaningful, once you understood Charlie’s condition, and the trust & care she had with Zach.
This is book 1 in a series, and I can’t wait to read more!!
Thank you to Luna Literary for the ARC!
Definitely some elements of found family, a little forced proximity, workplace romance, good representation of mental health, and the characters are in their 30’s which is always nice to see. The author did a great job of painting the scenery, I felt like I could really imagine the town’s vibes. Lower spice than I normally read, but I really enjoyed it. I think it felt really meaningful, once you understood Charlie’s condition, and the trust & care she had with Zach.
This is book 1 in a series, and I can’t wait to read more!!
Thank you to Luna Literary for the ARC!
November 5, 2025
Hold Me Instead is Andrea D’Alessio’s (@andrea_dalessio_writes) debut romance novel from the Elmwood Falls series. This story left me craving snickerdoodle cookies and snuggles with pets. I love that it balances emotional depth with genuine heat between veterinarians Charlie and Zachary.
What really stood out to me was how the author portrayed vaginismus with such sensitivity and care. It’s rare to see this topic handled so openly in fiction, and the story does an incredible job showing that healing and intimacy are absolutely possible with the right, supportive partner. For those who have any pelvic floor dysfunction, Charlie’s physical struggles will be relatable and validating.
What I loved most about this book is it teaches us that when we open up to safe people who love us unconditionally, we can work through our struggles and can get a little closer to wholly accepting ourselves.
I couldn’t put down this sweet, moving, and empowering story. Highly recommend!
What really stood out to me was how the author portrayed vaginismus with such sensitivity and care. It’s rare to see this topic handled so openly in fiction, and the story does an incredible job showing that healing and intimacy are absolutely possible with the right, supportive partner. For those who have any pelvic floor dysfunction, Charlie’s physical struggles will be relatable and validating.
What I loved most about this book is it teaches us that when we open up to safe people who love us unconditionally, we can work through our struggles and can get a little closer to wholly accepting ourselves.
I couldn’t put down this sweet, moving, and empowering story. Highly recommend!
August 28, 2025
"I'm glad the me I am now is still...someone you're interested in." -Zachary
Charlie (Charlotte) & Zachary. Charlie and Zachary have known each other since they were teens, but working at his father's veterinary office. Charlie had a crush, Zach came home on college breaks with a girlfriend who became his wife. When his world falls apart, he comes home to help his ailing dad. Charlie is still working with his dad and is set to take over the business. There's so much she doesn't know. With Zachary back in their small town Charlie is just flustered. Her old crush, a threat to her future with the vet clinic. The angst. Zachary is a good guy and Charlie is a sweetheart. The town around them is supportive, and their friends and family are full on meddlers. These two don't stand a chance against the plotting and planning going on behind the scenes - their friends to lovers/kind of second chance romance is barreling towards them.
This is a cute story with fall vibes. The connection between Charlie and Zachary is clear. Charlie considers herself part of his family but it seems like his family has other ideas which I felt was weird and made me feel uncomfortable for her. There are jumps from one place to another and sometimes I think it's from one time to another which I found a little confusing. Overall though, I liked this book and enjoyed reading it.
I received this eARC for free and my review is voluntary. Thank you to Andrea D'Alessio and Luna Literary Management.
"...it's only worth it if you're there with me."
Arc review to come 3.5/5
Release 8/28
Charlie (Charlotte) & Zachary. Charlie and Zachary have known each other since they were teens, but working at his father's veterinary office. Charlie had a crush, Zach came home on college breaks with a girlfriend who became his wife. When his world falls apart, he comes home to help his ailing dad. Charlie is still working with his dad and is set to take over the business. There's so much she doesn't know. With Zachary back in their small town Charlie is just flustered. Her old crush, a threat to her future with the vet clinic. The angst. Zachary is a good guy and Charlie is a sweetheart. The town around them is supportive, and their friends and family are full on meddlers. These two don't stand a chance against the plotting and planning going on behind the scenes - their friends to lovers/kind of second chance romance is barreling towards them.
This is a cute story with fall vibes. The connection between Charlie and Zachary is clear. Charlie considers herself part of his family but it seems like his family has other ideas which I felt was weird and made me feel uncomfortable for her. There are jumps from one place to another and sometimes I think it's from one time to another which I found a little confusing. Overall though, I liked this book and enjoyed reading it.
I received this eARC for free and my review is voluntary. Thank you to Andrea D'Alessio and Luna Literary Management.
"...it's only worth it if you're there with me."
Arc review to come 3.5/5
Release 8/28
August 23, 2025
After six years away, Zachary returns to help out at his father’s veterinary clinic. Awkwardness lingers between him and Charlie, who is also a vet at the clinic.
As they start working together, friendship re-develops between them and the attraction between them continues to brew. I loved how their relationship started to mend after he reveals the truth behind what happened years ago.
As for Charlie’s medical condition, I liked that it didn’t define her entirely and that what he felt for her was not impacted by her condition. I wished though that he had grabbed hold of her tighter, and fought for her dreams harder.
This was a pretty good debut novel and I look forward to reading more from the author.
As they start working together, friendship re-develops between them and the attraction between them continues to brew. I loved how their relationship started to mend after he reveals the truth behind what happened years ago.
As for Charlie’s medical condition, I liked that it didn’t define her entirely and that what he felt for her was not impacted by her condition. I wished though that he had grabbed hold of her tighter, and fought for her dreams harder.
This was a pretty good debut novel and I look forward to reading more from the author.
September 5, 2025
Your old high school crush comes back to town after his father—who also happens to be your boss—has a heart attack. He steps in to help at the veterinary clinic that’s supposed to be yours once his dad retires. What could possibly go wrong… or right?
Hold Me Instead had such a promising premise, but it fell a bit flat for me. The build-up between the two main characters had me hoping for more, but I found myself losing interest as the story went on.
What I did love was that the author gave Charlie (FMC) a medical condition that isn’t often represented in romance. Seeing how she and Zachary (MMC) navigated this together was definitely a highlight.
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the opportunity to read an advanced reader’s copy of this book.
Hold Me Instead had such a promising premise, but it fell a bit flat for me. The build-up between the two main characters had me hoping for more, but I found myself losing interest as the story went on.
What I did love was that the author gave Charlie (FMC) a medical condition that isn’t often represented in romance. Seeing how she and Zachary (MMC) navigated this together was definitely a highlight.
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the opportunity to read an advanced reader’s copy of this book.
August 20, 2025
Rating: 4 stars / Spice: 3/5 peppers —- This was such a sweet and tender romance, with lovable characters and the coziest fall vibes. Charlie and Zachary are serious animal lovers and caring veterinarians, and the tension of their workplace rivalry was perfection. The representation of Charlie's health condition, as well as her mental health and physical therapy journey, was handled in a way that was both informative and sensitive. I loved how patient and gentle Zachary was in general, but especially when it came to his care for Charlie. Lovely story, and very sweet characters! —- What to expect: - Friends to Rivals to Lovers - Inexperienced FMC - Slow Burn - MCs in their 30s - Workplace Romance - Mental Health & Women's Health Rep
August 25, 2025
If you like a slow burn with mutual pining and some denial mixed in between you are in for a treat with this book. I really liked the care the author took with Charlie’s condition and the care that was taken with the way Zachary accepted her.
The spice is lower than I normally read but absolutely made sense for this book and didn’t make me enjoy it any less.
There were some fun side characters that seem like they would have good future stories as well. 👀👀
This book was centered around a veterinary practice so of course there were animals and I always love that!
Thanks to the author & Luna Literary for the opportunity to ARC read this book!
The spice is lower than I normally read but absolutely made sense for this book and didn’t make me enjoy it any less.
There were some fun side characters that seem like they would have good future stories as well. 👀👀
This book was centered around a veterinary practice so of course there were animals and I always love that!
Thanks to the author & Luna Literary for the opportunity to ARC read this book!
August 29, 2025
Always grateful to be chosen to read ARCs. This book was released today by @andrea_dalessio_writes. The story line is cute, cozy, and full of love. It’s about two long time friends who are veterinarians. After a heart attack, Zachary is back in town for his dad and also help out. He falls in love with Charlie along the process of helping out. The clinic is in trouble and he’s still trying to find himself. At the end, true love wins and saving a pet clinic is part of the plan. This a great read, character driven and also plot driven. There are funny parts, and mixed emotions of sadness, happiness, and love.
September 1, 2025
The perfect way to end summer and start the autumn, with a small town romance.
This book gave me cozy vibes in the same way as rewatching a comfort series with a cup of tea. This book talks about women’s health in a way I haven’t seen in other books, the MC has vaginism and the way that it’s told, we see it as something she has to live with and not something that defines her life and that’s how you do representation!
I loved the vibes, the plot was nice and the romance was cozy, overall loved it!
Thanks Luna literary and Andrea D’Alessio for writting this for giving me the opportunity to read this arc.
This book gave me cozy vibes in the same way as rewatching a comfort series with a cup of tea. This book talks about women’s health in a way I haven’t seen in other books, the MC has vaginism and the way that it’s told, we see it as something she has to live with and not something that defines her life and that’s how you do representation!
I loved the vibes, the plot was nice and the romance was cozy, overall loved it!
Thanks Luna literary and Andrea D’Alessio for writting this for giving me the opportunity to read this arc.
September 12, 2025
ARC Review
Book one in a new hometown romance series. It's giving Hallmark plus spice.
Follow the FMC, Charlie, as she holds onto her strength and shares her struggles with those around her. Then add in MMC, Zachary, who has come home holding on to anger from the past and feelings of being lost.
When they share their struggles and fears with each other, will they be the strength and support the other never knew they needed? Or will it all be too scary to handle?
So, if a slow-burn hometown friends-to-lovers is your cup of tea. And you are a fan of Hallmark movies. Just add some open-door spice, and Andrea D'Alessio has written the book for you.
Book one in a new hometown romance series. It's giving Hallmark plus spice.
Follow the FMC, Charlie, as she holds onto her strength and shares her struggles with those around her. Then add in MMC, Zachary, who has come home holding on to anger from the past and feelings of being lost.
When they share their struggles and fears with each other, will they be the strength and support the other never knew they needed? Or will it all be too scary to handle?
So, if a slow-burn hometown friends-to-lovers is your cup of tea. And you are a fan of Hallmark movies. Just add some open-door spice, and Andrea D'Alessio has written the book for you.
August 30, 2025
This debut romance slowly steals you. It’s about unspoken hurts, quiet yearning, and the kind of chemistry that builds in stolen glances, not spotlight moments. Andrea’s characters are tender, flawed, and achingly real.
I loved getting to know Charlie and Zachary prior to HMI's release. They were amazing!
A cozy, emotionally charged romance that hugs your heart... think late-night confessions and longing silence turned beautiful. Pure comfort with depth.
I'll be waiting for more Andrea D'Alessio! Thank you, Luna Literary for giving me an ARC of such a great book!
I loved getting to know Charlie and Zachary prior to HMI's release. They were amazing!
A cozy, emotionally charged romance that hugs your heart... think late-night confessions and longing silence turned beautiful. Pure comfort with depth.
I'll be waiting for more Andrea D'Alessio! Thank you, Luna Literary for giving me an ARC of such a great book!
September 10, 2025
✨Tropes~
♥️Slow Burn
♥️Workplace Romance
♥️Former Crush
♥️Friends to Lovers
♥️Mental Health Rep
♥️ Women's Health Rep
🌶️
This gave off great cozy Romcom vibes. Charlie is a veterinarian whose boss just had a heart attack. Even worse, his son Zachary, her former crush, is back and working alongside her. Zachary left six years ago and is returning divorced. He's just here to help out while his dad is sick. The chemistry between Zachary and Charlie is great and there is some spice. Charlie has some women's health issues that I think are wonderfully represented by the author. A great cozy read
♥️Slow Burn
♥️Workplace Romance
♥️Former Crush
♥️Friends to Lovers
♥️Mental Health Rep
♥️ Women's Health Rep
🌶️
This gave off great cozy Romcom vibes. Charlie is a veterinarian whose boss just had a heart attack. Even worse, his son Zachary, her former crush, is back and working alongside her. Zachary left six years ago and is returning divorced. He's just here to help out while his dad is sick. The chemistry between Zachary and Charlie is great and there is some spice. Charlie has some women's health issues that I think are wonderfully represented by the author. A great cozy read
September 12, 2025
Charlie and Zachary are both vets who has to work together to his father animal clinic after his father had a heart attack and he came back from Chicago after he got divorced and got fired from his old job . Now they work close and her feelings are back on like when she wan teen and they worked together at the clinic 10 years ago . Their styles may be different but their love for the animals is the same .
I received this book from the author and the publisher as an ARC . Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own .
I received this book from the author and the publisher as an ARC . Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own .
August 28, 2025
Ready for some cute and spicy reading? Charlie is a veterinarian that has been following the owner Daniel around for years. Zachary is Daniels son and also a veterinarian. When Daniel has a heart attack, Zac loses his job and moves back home, sparks fly. Daniel has promised the business to Charlie but that may be endangered. The flirting is cute and the banter around them and her and her friends is fun to read.
September 7, 2025
this book is a beautiful, slowish burn, story about a FMC (Charlie) who makes it look like she has her life perfectly together, but it's truly deeply scarred and traumatized by her own vaginismus. I loved the way how this was portrayed and the way the MMC (Zachary) was there for Charlie. Loved how this felt like a soft warm welcoming hug, like a hot chocolate after long winter days
thank you Luna Literary Management for the eArc
thank you Luna Literary Management for the eArc
September 8, 2025
This was such a great “transition into Fall” book! I don’t usually like childhood friends to lovers, but this one really hit the high points. I liked the vet clinic background and felt like the family dynamics were so good. I also enjoyed that the author explored women’s health topics that aren’t usually talked about in books. Toothless and Maple?... I need them in my life, along with a friend group like Charlie’s!
Thank you to Luna Literary and Andrea D’Alessio for the eARC!
Thank you to Luna Literary and Andrea D’Alessio for the eARC!
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