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Panic #1
Pull Me Close
Welcome to Panic, a sultry Miami nightclub where bodies and hearts move to a beat that doesn’t stop at sunrise—the setting for “a magnificent story full of deep emotion” (Sawyer Bennett).
I thought I could enjoy a night out like a normal person. I thought I could handle the flashing lights, the pulsing music, the crowded dance floor. I couldn’t have been more wrong. After having an anxiety attack and passing out during my sister’s engagement party at Panic, I wake up in the arms of the hottest guy I’ve ever seen. Nick Moreno’s no gentleman. But he might just be the man I need to help me take control of my life.
When I hear there’s some random girl passed out in the back room of my family’s South Beach nightclub, I’m pissed. My dad’s already behind bars and we can’t afford any more bad press. But after giving her a lift—literally—back to her apartment, I stop seeing Katherine Wilson as some random girl. She’s gorgeous, vulnerable, and braver than she knows. And when we kiss, all I want to do is pull her close and promise that she’ll always be safe in my arms.
I thought I could enjoy a night out like a normal person. I thought I could handle the flashing lights, the pulsing music, the crowded dance floor. I couldn’t have been more wrong. After having an anxiety attack and passing out during my sister’s engagement party at Panic, I wake up in the arms of the hottest guy I’ve ever seen. Nick Moreno’s no gentleman. But he might just be the man I need to help me take control of my life.
When I hear there’s some random girl passed out in the back room of my family’s South Beach nightclub, I’m pissed. My dad’s already behind bars and we can’t afford any more bad press. But after giving her a lift—literally—back to her apartment, I stop seeing Katherine Wilson as some random girl. She’s gorgeous, vulnerable, and braver than she knows. And when we kiss, all I want to do is pull her close and promise that she’ll always be safe in my arms.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2016
132 people are currently reading
1828 people want to read
About the author
Sidney Halston
23 books1,140 followersJeanette Escudero worked as an attorney before picking up a pen at thirty years old to write something other than legal briefs. Being published fulfilled a dream and gave her an outlet for her imaginative, romantic side. Writing as Sidney Halston, she is the USA Today bestselling author of the Panic series, the Worth the Fight series, the Iron-Clad Security novels, and the Seeing Red duet. In addition to writing and reading, Jeanette has a passion for travel and adventure. She and her family have been to the Galapagos Islands and have hiked Yellowstone, the Shenandoah mountains, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Born in Miami, Florida, to Cuban parents, she currently lives in South Florida with her husband and her three children, in whom she’s instilled a love of nature and an appreciation for the planet. For more information visit www.sidneyhalston.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
May 16, 2017
NOW LIVE!!!
*Amazon*B&N*Kobo*
Sidney Halston deserves a standing ovation for this book. The realistic way in which she wrote Nick and Katherine's story was hauntingly beautiful and it broke my heart. Anxiety disorders and PTSD are sensitive subjects and they hit close to home for me so I fell a little more in love with Ms. Halston for her ability to handle this subject matter with such care.
For Katherine, her life is inside four walls. She can't work up the courage to leave her apartment and even just thinking about trying to sends her into a panic attack. The last time she went out she went to a club with her sister, which resulted in her passed out in the arms of a total stranger - who happened to think she was a junkie.
Nick, the aforementioned stranger, owns Panic, the nightclub Katherine was at. The last thing he wants to deal with his yet another addict in his club, but he also isn't going to call the cops and draw more attention to his club than he needs. Instead he takes her home and watches over her until she wakes up. He leaves without giving her a chance to explain because he has no time for her habit in his life. Then when he can't get her out of his mind he returns to finally get the true story. But can he help her or will he just push her farther into her safe haven?
Full disclosure, the rest of this review will most likely turn into a big rant on my part, so be prepared. I loved this story so much because of how real it was and that it didn't just show you a tiny part of living with anxiety, it fully explored the life of an anxiety sufferer. And more than that it also showed you what it's like for the loved ones of someone that has these issues. I've personally dealt with both sides which is why this book made me feel so close to these characters and, for me, I loved how everything was brought into focus and described.
Katherine and Nick's romance was never pushed to the background so that her panics were made the main focus, though, and I really liked that. Yes, she was the character mainly focused on, but it was done in a way that it didn't take away from the romantic relationship. And we still had a huge about of Nick and his swoon worthy ability to be the sweetest character ever.
Nick was an ass in the beginning, but sadly that's how most people react to someone with anxiety. It doesn't make sense to people unless they've experienced it themselves, most times. I liked that he wasn't just randomly not an ass, we actually got to see his slow character progression into becoming more understanding and doing his best to comprehend Katherine's situation. I loved him so much for actually trying to support her and be the push she needed to help herself.
The struggle he had with wanting nothing more than to help Katherine, yet not being able to, was so captivating. I felt his need to fight for someone you care for and the desperation it leads to when you realize there's only so much you can do for that person. The way his fight was depicted had me very intrigued and it was one of the reasons I was unable to put this book down once I started it.
Katherine was a really strong character. She had so many fears about life, but she faced them head on as best as she could. Not saying she just woke up one day and decided to stop being scared, but she worked towards not letting her fear control her life. I loved that we were shown her full struggle, there was no magic overnight healing. She would take two steps forward and then be shoved ten steps back. But she powered through and accepted the help she needed.
Katherine's story is similar to so many other people out there and I appreciated the fact Sidney Halston wrote about it in the most realistic way possible. And the added bonus of the sexy-man that I'm sure we all wish would show up in our lives was just brilliant. I loved Nick and Katherine's story and the emotions that were between them. Seeing a relationship like that is what I yearn to read about in my books, and this story had exactly what I was looking for.
Overall, I will not only recommend this book, I will do my best to force everyone I know into reading it. Pull Me Close was just that good and I will never forget how reading this made me feel. I'm also dying for Nick's brother to get a book so I hope that will be out sometime in the near future. It's going to be a good one.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
*Amazon*B&N*Kobo*
Sidney Halston deserves a standing ovation for this book. The realistic way in which she wrote Nick and Katherine's story was hauntingly beautiful and it broke my heart. Anxiety disorders and PTSD are sensitive subjects and they hit close to home for me so I fell a little more in love with Ms. Halston for her ability to handle this subject matter with such care.
For Katherine, her life is inside four walls. She can't work up the courage to leave her apartment and even just thinking about trying to sends her into a panic attack. The last time she went out she went to a club with her sister, which resulted in her passed out in the arms of a total stranger - who happened to think she was a junkie.
Nick, the aforementioned stranger, owns Panic, the nightclub Katherine was at. The last thing he wants to deal with his yet another addict in his club, but he also isn't going to call the cops and draw more attention to his club than he needs. Instead he takes her home and watches over her until she wakes up. He leaves without giving her a chance to explain because he has no time for her habit in his life. Then when he can't get her out of his mind he returns to finally get the true story. But can he help her or will he just push her farther into her safe haven?
Full disclosure, the rest of this review will most likely turn into a big rant on my part, so be prepared. I loved this story so much because of how real it was and that it didn't just show you a tiny part of living with anxiety, it fully explored the life of an anxiety sufferer. And more than that it also showed you what it's like for the loved ones of someone that has these issues. I've personally dealt with both sides which is why this book made me feel so close to these characters and, for me, I loved how everything was brought into focus and described.
Katherine and Nick's romance was never pushed to the background so that her panics were made the main focus, though, and I really liked that. Yes, she was the character mainly focused on, but it was done in a way that it didn't take away from the romantic relationship. And we still had a huge about of Nick and his swoon worthy ability to be the sweetest character ever.
Nick was an ass in the beginning, but sadly that's how most people react to someone with anxiety. It doesn't make sense to people unless they've experienced it themselves, most times. I liked that he wasn't just randomly not an ass, we actually got to see his slow character progression into becoming more understanding and doing his best to comprehend Katherine's situation. I loved him so much for actually trying to support her and be the push she needed to help herself.
The struggle he had with wanting nothing more than to help Katherine, yet not being able to, was so captivating. I felt his need to fight for someone you care for and the desperation it leads to when you realize there's only so much you can do for that person. The way his fight was depicted had me very intrigued and it was one of the reasons I was unable to put this book down once I started it.
Katherine was a really strong character. She had so many fears about life, but she faced them head on as best as she could. Not saying she just woke up one day and decided to stop being scared, but she worked towards not letting her fear control her life. I loved that we were shown her full struggle, there was no magic overnight healing. She would take two steps forward and then be shoved ten steps back. But she powered through and accepted the help she needed.
Katherine's story is similar to so many other people out there and I appreciated the fact Sidney Halston wrote about it in the most realistic way possible. And the added bonus of the sexy-man that I'm sure we all wish would show up in our lives was just brilliant. I loved Nick and Katherine's story and the emotions that were between them. Seeing a relationship like that is what I yearn to read about in my books, and this story had exactly what I was looking for.
Overall, I will not only recommend this book, I will do my best to force everyone I know into reading it. Pull Me Close was just that good and I will never forget how reading this made me feel. I'm also dying for Nick's brother to get a book so I hope that will be out sometime in the near future. It's going to be a good one.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2016
Katherine lives a life of fear and anxiety. Surrounded by the walls of her tiny apartment she carries on never daring to take a step outside. That is until she decides to face her fear and finds herself at PANIC a Miami nightclub for her sister's engagement party. Soon the flashing lights and crush of bodies have Katie suffering one of the worst panic attacks of her life.
Nico doesn't have time to worry about some passed out girl in his club. She's probably some junkie anyway, and they've already had their share of bad press lately. He'll give Katie a ride back home, but then wash his hands of her. But there is just something about this waif of a girl that has him intrigued.
THE FEELS in this one...
I honestly don't know what to write in this review that would do this book and OUNCE of justice. The writing was PHENOMENAL. As someone who has suffered from social anxiety, and PTSD, this book hit close to home and close to my heart. The author obviously did her research and the subject justice.
Katie was an AMAZING heroine. So strong, and loving. Watching her bloom and get better had me tearing up through the whole book. Nico, what can I say. At the beginning, I wasn't sure I was going to like this guy. He was a judgmental ASSHOLE. Sure he had his reasons, and I even understood them. It didn't stop me from wanting to smack him. Luckily it doesn't last long and we get ourselves one of THE best heroes I've read in a book to date.
On top of that, we get some fabulous sexual tension, some smokin hot sex scenes, and a great cast of secondary characters. I am taking a moment here to give a shout out to MATT. Was that guy awesome or what? I CANNOT wait to see what happens in his book (I assume there will be one.)
Which brings me to the end. The last 15% of this book TORE my heart out. I was ugly crying. I wanted to immediately grab my loved ones close and make sure they knew I loved them.
So as you can probably tell from my gushing and probably not 100% coherent review. I ADORED this one. Do yourself a HUGE favor and add this one to your TO READ list TODAY.
June 30, 2017
4.5 Stars!
What a real surprise. This book is a gem!
There are so many reasons to love Pull Me Close. One of these is the writing which was absolutely good! It's my first time to read a Sidney Halston book and wow, I was hooked. I loved how she nicely delivered a story that has a very challenging theme which is battling the mental illness known as PTSD.
The story started when Katherine "Katie" Wilson woke up in the arms of Nico "Nick" Moreno, the owner of the popular Miami Beach Night Club named Panic. She lost consciousness after having a panic attack right when she stepped into the club. Katie is claustrophobic. In her younger years, she experienced a traumatic experience that changed her life and made her became scared to face the outside world. While her friendship with Nico developed and her feelings toward him progressed, her fears also became stronger. But she has no choice but to conquer those fears in order to have a normal relationship with Nico and in order to give herself a chance to live a normal life again.
What impressed me most was how the PTSD aspect was well-researched. The details were so accurate. This issue actually hits home because I, myself, am one of the people who experienced panic attacks in the past. This is not an easy condition to carry. I still can remember the nerves, the fast heartbeats, the feeling of not being able to control the situation, the feeling of helplessness, and the anticipation that something worst is about to happen at any moment. All these were experienced by Katie in this book and I can say that they really do happen to someone who has panic attacks.
The book was powerful not only because of its realistic storyline but also because of the sincere and believable romance between Katie and Nico. I found myself unable to resist these characters-- especially Nico because of his assertiveness and willingness to help Katie get over her condition and face her fears. Their story was not only about falling in love with each other but also about building mutual trust, understanding each other's differences, and overcoming bad situations by simply being there for each other.
Pull Me Close was as deep and rich as it was emotional and romantic. I highly recommend this book to everyone who wants to read a romance book that has enough substance to move and melt your heart in the end.
"I'm falling in love with the man who saved me from myself."
What a real surprise. This book is a gem!
There are so many reasons to love Pull Me Close. One of these is the writing which was absolutely good! It's my first time to read a Sidney Halston book and wow, I was hooked. I loved how she nicely delivered a story that has a very challenging theme which is battling the mental illness known as PTSD.
The story started when Katherine "Katie" Wilson woke up in the arms of Nico "Nick" Moreno, the owner of the popular Miami Beach Night Club named Panic. She lost consciousness after having a panic attack right when she stepped into the club. Katie is claustrophobic. In her younger years, she experienced a traumatic experience that changed her life and made her became scared to face the outside world. While her friendship with Nico developed and her feelings toward him progressed, her fears also became stronger. But she has no choice but to conquer those fears in order to have a normal relationship with Nico and in order to give herself a chance to live a normal life again.
"You pull me close and hold me tight, and I'll be okay."
What impressed me most was how the PTSD aspect was well-researched. The details were so accurate. This issue actually hits home because I, myself, am one of the people who experienced panic attacks in the past. This is not an easy condition to carry. I still can remember the nerves, the fast heartbeats, the feeling of not being able to control the situation, the feeling of helplessness, and the anticipation that something worst is about to happen at any moment. All these were experienced by Katie in this book and I can say that they really do happen to someone who has panic attacks.
The book was powerful not only because of its realistic storyline but also because of the sincere and believable romance between Katie and Nico. I found myself unable to resist these characters-- especially Nico because of his assertiveness and willingness to help Katie get over her condition and face her fears. Their story was not only about falling in love with each other but also about building mutual trust, understanding each other's differences, and overcoming bad situations by simply being there for each other.
Pull Me Close was as deep and rich as it was emotional and romantic. I highly recommend this book to everyone who wants to read a romance book that has enough substance to move and melt your heart in the end.
"You're my kind of crazy."
October 3, 2016
I'm really impressed by the research and detail put into the storyline. Katherine's fears and anxiety were felt in the pages. Her personality shone through, even as she suffered though some traumatic experiences and struggled with what was left of her emotional psyche afterwards. She meets Nick after an anxiety attack at his club and though they start off a little rocky when Nick makes some erroneous assumptions, they end up together. I loved the hope that Nick brought to her life. She needed someone to push her out of her comfort zone and to make her want more. He also brought along his family and friends, expanding Katherine's world beyond the walls of her apartment. Nick was good to her and I was happy to see him step out of his comfort zone as well. The plot was interesting and emotional. It was very different from anything I've read before and I admire the fact that such a sensitive subject as is mental health was addressed in such a tasteful manner. All in all a good read. Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing. No rape or abuse.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2021
4 Confronting Fears Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free It's Live!!!!
Sidney Halston has written a book which I will think about for quite some time. She brought crippling Anxiety disorders and PTSD to our attention through this novel. She made it real and understandable. She gave us a complete love story with two people who must handle all the ups and downs of this very difficult situation. She did it with care and frankness. This book is a true service for those who may know of someone who has these disorders.
Nick first meets Katherine when she is having an anxiety attack in his club, Panic. She was only there because her sister was having her bachelorette party. Katherine has been in house lock down for quite some time. She lives with everything being delivered to her apartment. She works from home as an editor and the internet is her best friend. She experienced a trauma so intense, one day she just stopped going out and living her life. Her mind became too active with all the things that could go wrong at any given time...and before she realized it...she hadn't left her apartment for years.
Nick runs Panic with his twin, Matt. The club was their dad's. They grew up surrounded by love and all the extended friends and workers there. Both men went on to college and had careers but when their father seemed to be getting on in years, they came back to help him with the club. Little did the sons realize all the dirty dealing going on behind the scenes... drugs and sex trade. They had nothing to do with it but their dad did. The FBI came in and closed everything down. Everyone was arrested and because the undercover cops testified Matt and Nico were not involved, they were released. Their dad was sentenced to prison and will remain there for a very long time.
It was during all of this, Nick learned who his real friends were...they all scampered away and the biggest rat of all was his ex girlfriend. Nick didn't know she was into drugs the way she was. He found out the hard way during the bust, when he caught her doing meth while giving sexual favors to one of his past friends. Nick has been hard on himself... he thinks he should have seen the drug use early... figured it all out...His recovery from all that has happened has left him hard and cynical.
So Katherine is in line to get to the bathroom and things are closing in on her. The Xanax dose she took just to come to the party has worn off and she is fighting to try to get it together. She has in her bag a little dose to take, hoping to get some relief, but everything is ramping up too fast...the noise is too loud, the people are too close, her heart is beating so fast she feels like it is going to burst out of her chest....she starts to see stars and black dots.... she is fading out.
Nick and Matt are called by their security guy. He caught Katherine before she landed on the ground. Since the reopening of the club, the police have been looking for any reason to shut it down. This makes Nick not want to call an ambulance for this girl. She seems strung out and Nick has no desire or sympathy. They take her to the office and while she goes in and out on the couch...Matt is more kind to her than Nick.
The brothers use a cold towel and alcohol to snap her awake. Katherine comes to, is embarrassed and is having a hard time staying awake because of the Xanax she took before collapsing. Nick looked through the girl's purse and saw the pills proving to him she is a junkie just like his ex.
When Katherine tries to talk, she attempts to say anxiety attack but nothing comes out clearly.
Nick gets stuck having to take her home because Matt has his bike. Nick gets her into the apartment and lays her down on the bed. He doesn't want to leave her for fear she'll chokes or something in her sleep. He stays on a chair throughout the night and is conflicted about why he should care.
In the AM when Katherine wakes, Nick is there and she tries to tell him again of her situation. He is not buying it. As he leaves, he tells her to get some help.
Nick can't seem to get this woman out of his mind. He is not sure what her deal is and he also is still upset with how he was clueless about his ex. He never wants to be in that type of position again.
Katherine has realized she has a need to make sure this Nick knows she is not a junkie. She wants to thank him for not taking advantage of her in the state she was in. Sher musters up the courage to drive to the club and tries to get out of the car to enter the building. As she sits in the car, Nick knocks on the glass...Asking her what is she doing ...getting up, out of the car and then getting back in...
He guides her into the club and because she cannot go into an elevator... he takes her up the back stairs...it's frightening for her because it is almost pitch black. She makes it without passing out, barely.
In his office she explains once again with more detail how she has panic attacks and that was what happened that night. He asks all the normal questions.... why would come to the club... why would her sister let her...Katherine explained her sister and no one else in the family knows she hasn't left her house. She is able to keep it away from them.
Nick listens and is leaning towards believing her...but is still skeptical. Yet as they are sitting there... he does see this pretty, clear eyed person who is nothing like all the club girls who throw themselves at him. She is also more his age...He shouldn't be interested in her at all...
But he is...and when he thinks of her driving to the club purposely to set him straight about who she is and what she is about....he realizes what it took to do that... how brave she was...
These two have a conversation which reveals how alone Katherine is in her life... it touches Nick and he starts text conversations, drop-by visits, dinners and late night calls. These two have something brewing... but it is a careful ramp up by Nick. At first you think Nick is almost an ass... but when he figures out how debilitating this is for Katherine... he shapes up quite nicely.
Through all of this, Katherine has a goal of being able to get to her sister's wedding. It is a huge hurtle; she has trouble just taking steps out the door. Nick becomes encouraging and a sweet romance blossoms.
During this entire tale, we are privy to what is in both of their minds. The mutual POV's works well. Katherine is trying very hard to make changes in her life. She wants to live, not exist. Nick wants Katherine to be by his side and experience everything she use to...He is mostly patient with her and extremely encouraging. Katherine works hard to make the changes SHE wants... but just like in the real world, she moves forward one step... and then can fall back three in the progress. She is getting help through all of this and it is very supportive.
This type of disorder is all mind based and it is very tricky in making the person think all sorts of bad things are going to happen at any given moment. If given too much time before doing something out of her comfort zone, Katherine's mind will come up with all sorts of reason where chaos could occur. Even when not on the brink of an attack, she is scared... it is only varying degrees of how she manages it in front of others.
This book was worth the read. There was a unique situation, certain events all of us can identify with and a very sweet and sexy love story. Nick is slammin' hot and likes control in the bedroom. Katherine owns her sexuality and her issues. She works hard to get better but also needs for Nick to understand.... this isn't something that gets cured...she will always have it... it is just doing the therapy, meds and coping skills to get by.
I think Sidney Halston brought an important story for us to read. She mentioned in her acknowledgements how this subject was near and dear to her. It showed.
P.S. Sabrina did an excellent review of this, along with others...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Pull Me Close (Panic#1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Make Me Stay (Panic#2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kiss Me Back (Panic#3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
What About Us (Panic#4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free It's Live!!!!
Sidney Halston has written a book which I will think about for quite some time. She brought crippling Anxiety disorders and PTSD to our attention through this novel. She made it real and understandable. She gave us a complete love story with two people who must handle all the ups and downs of this very difficult situation. She did it with care and frankness. This book is a true service for those who may know of someone who has these disorders.
Nick first meets Katherine when she is having an anxiety attack in his club, Panic. She was only there because her sister was having her bachelorette party. Katherine has been in house lock down for quite some time. She lives with everything being delivered to her apartment. She works from home as an editor and the internet is her best friend. She experienced a trauma so intense, one day she just stopped going out and living her life. Her mind became too active with all the things that could go wrong at any given time...and before she realized it...she hadn't left her apartment for years.
Nick runs Panic with his twin, Matt. The club was their dad's. They grew up surrounded by love and all the extended friends and workers there. Both men went on to college and had careers but when their father seemed to be getting on in years, they came back to help him with the club. Little did the sons realize all the dirty dealing going on behind the scenes... drugs and sex trade. They had nothing to do with it but their dad did. The FBI came in and closed everything down. Everyone was arrested and because the undercover cops testified Matt and Nico were not involved, they were released. Their dad was sentenced to prison and will remain there for a very long time.
It was during all of this, Nick learned who his real friends were...they all scampered away and the biggest rat of all was his ex girlfriend. Nick didn't know she was into drugs the way she was. He found out the hard way during the bust, when he caught her doing meth while giving sexual favors to one of his past friends. Nick has been hard on himself... he thinks he should have seen the drug use early... figured it all out...His recovery from all that has happened has left him hard and cynical.
So Katherine is in line to get to the bathroom and things are closing in on her. The Xanax dose she took just to come to the party has worn off and she is fighting to try to get it together. She has in her bag a little dose to take, hoping to get some relief, but everything is ramping up too fast...the noise is too loud, the people are too close, her heart is beating so fast she feels like it is going to burst out of her chest....she starts to see stars and black dots.... she is fading out.
Nick and Matt are called by their security guy. He caught Katherine before she landed on the ground. Since the reopening of the club, the police have been looking for any reason to shut it down. This makes Nick not want to call an ambulance for this girl. She seems strung out and Nick has no desire or sympathy. They take her to the office and while she goes in and out on the couch...Matt is more kind to her than Nick.
The brothers use a cold towel and alcohol to snap her awake. Katherine comes to, is embarrassed and is having a hard time staying awake because of the Xanax she took before collapsing. Nick looked through the girl's purse and saw the pills proving to him she is a junkie just like his ex.
When Katherine tries to talk, she attempts to say anxiety attack but nothing comes out clearly.
Nick gets stuck having to take her home because Matt has his bike. Nick gets her into the apartment and lays her down on the bed. He doesn't want to leave her for fear she'll chokes or something in her sleep. He stays on a chair throughout the night and is conflicted about why he should care.
In the AM when Katherine wakes, Nick is there and she tries to tell him again of her situation. He is not buying it. As he leaves, he tells her to get some help.
Nick can't seem to get this woman out of his mind. He is not sure what her deal is and he also is still upset with how he was clueless about his ex. He never wants to be in that type of position again.
Katherine has realized she has a need to make sure this Nick knows she is not a junkie. She wants to thank him for not taking advantage of her in the state she was in. Sher musters up the courage to drive to the club and tries to get out of the car to enter the building. As she sits in the car, Nick knocks on the glass...Asking her what is she doing ...getting up, out of the car and then getting back in...
He guides her into the club and because she cannot go into an elevator... he takes her up the back stairs...it's frightening for her because it is almost pitch black. She makes it without passing out, barely.
In his office she explains once again with more detail how she has panic attacks and that was what happened that night. He asks all the normal questions.... why would come to the club... why would her sister let her...Katherine explained her sister and no one else in the family knows she hasn't left her house. She is able to keep it away from them.
Nick listens and is leaning towards believing her...but is still skeptical. Yet as they are sitting there... he does see this pretty, clear eyed person who is nothing like all the club girls who throw themselves at him. She is also more his age...He shouldn't be interested in her at all...
But he is...and when he thinks of her driving to the club purposely to set him straight about who she is and what she is about....he realizes what it took to do that... how brave she was...
These two have a conversation which reveals how alone Katherine is in her life... it touches Nick and he starts text conversations, drop-by visits, dinners and late night calls. These two have something brewing... but it is a careful ramp up by Nick. At first you think Nick is almost an ass... but when he figures out how debilitating this is for Katherine... he shapes up quite nicely.
Through all of this, Katherine has a goal of being able to get to her sister's wedding. It is a huge hurtle; she has trouble just taking steps out the door. Nick becomes encouraging and a sweet romance blossoms.
During this entire tale, we are privy to what is in both of their minds. The mutual POV's works well. Katherine is trying very hard to make changes in her life. She wants to live, not exist. Nick wants Katherine to be by his side and experience everything she use to...He is mostly patient with her and extremely encouraging. Katherine works hard to make the changes SHE wants... but just like in the real world, she moves forward one step... and then can fall back three in the progress. She is getting help through all of this and it is very supportive.
This type of disorder is all mind based and it is very tricky in making the person think all sorts of bad things are going to happen at any given moment. If given too much time before doing something out of her comfort zone, Katherine's mind will come up with all sorts of reason where chaos could occur. Even when not on the brink of an attack, she is scared... it is only varying degrees of how she manages it in front of others.
This book was worth the read. There was a unique situation, certain events all of us can identify with and a very sweet and sexy love story. Nick is slammin' hot and likes control in the bedroom. Katherine owns her sexuality and her issues. She works hard to get better but also needs for Nick to understand.... this isn't something that gets cured...she will always have it... it is just doing the therapy, meds and coping skills to get by.
I think Sidney Halston brought an important story for us to read. She mentioned in her acknowledgements how this subject was near and dear to her. It showed.
P.S. Sabrina did an excellent review of this, along with others...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Pull Me Close (Panic#1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Make Me Stay (Panic#2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kiss Me Back (Panic#3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
What About Us (Panic#4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 13, 2016
4 “I love you, corazón.” Stars
Katherine suffers from all sorts of anxieties and fears: small confined spaces, the dark, being in large crowds and public places. She spends nearly all her time locked away in her tiny studio apartment in Miami.
I could feel Katherines anxiety as she suffered through the panic attacks and as she struggled with trying to overcome her illness, yes PTSD is an illness along with anxiety and depression and needs to be treated as such. I like that books like this shine a light on how real they are and how hard it is for someone suffering.
When Katherines sisters engagement party comes around she knows she has to go. Popping anxiety meds she leaves her safe haven to go to Panic a famous Miami nightclub.
Nick is running Panic the nightclub his father started. When Nick and Katherine meet it is not insta love as Nick reads hear anxiety and fear as something else and dismisses her. Some things lead them to see each other a few more times and as their bond grows Nick learns the truth of Katherines condition.Nick won my heart with how patient, understanding and supportive he was of Katherine.
This is a love story about taking that leap of faith into the unknown. Do we leap? or do we stay in a safe but predictable place?
This book is the reason why I should not DNF some books and just keep reading!!! At 30% I was a bit bored and it was dragging and I got super close to quitting. I held on and it slowly pulled me in and I really enjoyed it.
Katherine suffers from all sorts of anxieties and fears: small confined spaces, the dark, being in large crowds and public places. She spends nearly all her time locked away in her tiny studio apartment in Miami.
I could feel Katherines anxiety as she suffered through the panic attacks and as she struggled with trying to overcome her illness, yes PTSD is an illness along with anxiety and depression and needs to be treated as such. I like that books like this shine a light on how real they are and how hard it is for someone suffering.
When Katherines sisters engagement party comes around she knows she has to go. Popping anxiety meds she leaves her safe haven to go to Panic a famous Miami nightclub.
Nick is running Panic the nightclub his father started. When Nick and Katherine meet it is not insta love as Nick reads hear anxiety and fear as something else and dismisses her. Some things lead them to see each other a few more times and as their bond grows Nick learns the truth of Katherines condition.Nick won my heart with how patient, understanding and supportive he was of Katherine.
This is a love story about taking that leap of faith into the unknown. Do we leap? or do we stay in a safe but predictable place?
This book is the reason why I should not DNF some books and just keep reading!!! At 30% I was a bit bored and it was dragging and I got super close to quitting. I held on and it slowly pulled me in and I really enjoyed it.
November 6, 2016
***4,5 "Just Breath!!!" stars***
To be honest with you, i didn't know what to expect from this book...
I thought that it will be another one romance story with hot sex scenes, club life etc....
Yep, it was all of that, but damn it, it was so much more.... and i have to admit that this story was soooooo good!!!!
The writer focused in a very serious mental matter and she handle the things so gentle and great...
Both our heroes were perfect in their imperfections and i loved how they were handling things....
“Tell me what you need. I want to help...”
“Pull me close and hold me tight.”
Katherine's life is full of fears and anxieties... For more than a decade, she has holed up herself in the four walls of her apartment and she is refusing to live...
But because of her sister, she is finding herself outside of her safe haven and in the crowded and dark "Panic" club...
Unfortunately, it's impossible to handle all this energy around her and she is having a serious panic attack that changing her life forever...
"With all I have been through in my thirty-two years of life, I’ve never wished I was someone else.
Until today.
Right now, at this very moment, I wish I was someone who has her shit together. Someone who could possibly stand a chance with a man like Nick."
Nico Moreno has lots of shits in his plate the last year... His father is in jail and he is trying to make his club a good business without all the bad shits that was going down in it the previous years...
The last thing, he was needing was a woman to pass out in his club, especially a junkie!!!
He had been burnt from those kind of women in the past and he didn't need another one on his way...
Unfortunately, he has to take care of her and then, he will forget that she'd ever existed....
"Strangely enough, even though she’s tormented inside, she’s actually a balm to me. Her presence is calming, and when I’m with her I forget the million problems awaiting me at the club."
Katherine and Nick felt a big attraction from day one, but their fears were getting in the way...
An odd friendship started between them which didn't take long to reformed to something more...
But will their fears allow them to be together or will separate them for good???
“I’ve decided I’m going to let myself fall in love with you...”
“Then you need to catch up, baby, because I’m already in love with you.”
I loved very much both Katherine and Nico..
Katherine had a very bad experience who made her afraid the world around her... She felt more easy and comfortable inside her home, so she had stopped trying... She needed someone to pull her out of her comfort zone and this wasn't another than Nico.
Nico from the other hand was a man full of life and fearless... He had his share on heartbreaking and he didn't trust easily other people and especially women. Yep, in the beginning, he was such an a$$ toward Katherine, but I could understand his reasons why he was acting like that!!!!
"If there is one thing I know, it’s that this man—the same man who is completely repulsed by me—won’t let me fall. I know this in the depths of my soul; I don’t know how I know it, but I just do..." {Katherine}
"I can’t untangle myself from her. It’s like she’s brought light and purpose back into my life even though she has a dark cloud hanging over her..." {Nico}
Nico and Katherine together were so wonderful!!!
Nico was pushing her with small steps to get out of her sell and to start living again... With him!!!
It wasn't an easy journey for both of them, but love can conquer anything!!! Right???
Especially near to the end, my heart was breaking for both of them... and for all the people that had faced similar situations!!!
It was making you to revaluate the meaning of life!!!!
"But I do what I promised myself I would do: I roll with it. I let the fear in and I do it anyway, and when I can’t, Nico always pulls me close and holds me tight.
My illness does not define me.
I define me."
I won't tell you more, because this is one book that you will have to try by yourselves!!!
The only thing that i will add is that the secondary characters were awesome... Especially Matt!!!
And I can't wait for his turn to come!!! I'm so eager for his story!!!
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
To be honest with you, i didn't know what to expect from this book...
I thought that it will be another one romance story with hot sex scenes, club life etc....
Yep, it was all of that, but damn it, it was so much more.... and i have to admit that this story was soooooo good!!!!
The writer focused in a very serious mental matter and she handle the things so gentle and great...
Both our heroes were perfect in their imperfections and i loved how they were handling things....
“Tell me what you need. I want to help...”
“Pull me close and hold me tight.”
Katherine's life is full of fears and anxieties... For more than a decade, she has holed up herself in the four walls of her apartment and she is refusing to live...
But because of her sister, she is finding herself outside of her safe haven and in the crowded and dark "Panic" club...
Unfortunately, it's impossible to handle all this energy around her and she is having a serious panic attack that changing her life forever...
"With all I have been through in my thirty-two years of life, I’ve never wished I was someone else.
Until today.
Right now, at this very moment, I wish I was someone who has her shit together. Someone who could possibly stand a chance with a man like Nick."
Nico Moreno has lots of shits in his plate the last year... His father is in jail and he is trying to make his club a good business without all the bad shits that was going down in it the previous years...
The last thing, he was needing was a woman to pass out in his club, especially a junkie!!!
He had been burnt from those kind of women in the past and he didn't need another one on his way...
Unfortunately, he has to take care of her and then, he will forget that she'd ever existed....
"Strangely enough, even though she’s tormented inside, she’s actually a balm to me. Her presence is calming, and when I’m with her I forget the million problems awaiting me at the club."
Katherine and Nick felt a big attraction from day one, but their fears were getting in the way...
An odd friendship started between them which didn't take long to reformed to something more...
But will their fears allow them to be together or will separate them for good???
“I’ve decided I’m going to let myself fall in love with you...”
“Then you need to catch up, baby, because I’m already in love with you.”
I loved very much both Katherine and Nico..
Katherine had a very bad experience who made her afraid the world around her... She felt more easy and comfortable inside her home, so she had stopped trying... She needed someone to pull her out of her comfort zone and this wasn't another than Nico.
Nico from the other hand was a man full of life and fearless... He had his share on heartbreaking and he didn't trust easily other people and especially women. Yep, in the beginning, he was such an a$$ toward Katherine, but I could understand his reasons why he was acting like that!!!!
"If there is one thing I know, it’s that this man—the same man who is completely repulsed by me—won’t let me fall. I know this in the depths of my soul; I don’t know how I know it, but I just do..." {Katherine}
"I can’t untangle myself from her. It’s like she’s brought light and purpose back into my life even though she has a dark cloud hanging over her..." {Nico}
Nico and Katherine together were so wonderful!!!
Nico was pushing her with small steps to get out of her sell and to start living again... With him!!!
It wasn't an easy journey for both of them, but love can conquer anything!!! Right???
Especially near to the end, my heart was breaking for both of them... and for all the people that had faced similar situations!!!
It was making you to revaluate the meaning of life!!!!
"But I do what I promised myself I would do: I roll with it. I let the fear in and I do it anyway, and when I can’t, Nico always pulls me close and holds me tight.
My illness does not define me.
I define me."
I won't tell you more, because this is one book that you will have to try by yourselves!!!
The only thing that i will add is that the secondary characters were awesome... Especially Matt!!!
And I can't wait for his turn to come!!! I'm so eager for his story!!!
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
October 23, 2016
4.75 "just breathe" stars
Life is just a series of curveballs thrown at you. Some knock you down. Some you hit over the fence, making you feel like a winner until the next one comes barreling by. It's how you react to those that knock you down that define you.
When Katherine decided to join her sister's engagement party in the famous Miami nightclub Panic, it was a presedan of her life, unknown to the people surrounding her – that she was suffering from PTSD, anxiety and panic attacks followed by a bunch of other crippling fears to the list...
Feeling overwhelmed by crowded place, loud music, darken place, she can't help it but feel trapped and she blacks out, right in front of the clubs owner, Nico Moreno.
Their encounter hasn't been the most pleasant one...Nico, burned by the betrayal from his own past, is totally distrustful towards Katherine, thinking she's a junkie that got overboard with the fix and he's adamant to clear his club from drugs and illegal business...
even though the „air“ between them is shifted towards the sullen, sad and apologetic mode, Nico still feels he should steer clear of her presence.
BUT what started off as an unpleasant and awkward misunderstanding, Katherine is determined to fight the fears if only to prove him wrong...
I don't want to be defined by my illness. I'm not a crazy person. I'm a person who has fears. But if I hole myself up in here and stop living then the illness is who I am. I don't want my anxiety to win.
and the more they interact, the more they develop understanding and friendship...Nico changes his posture and he lets his demons of doubt go, only to find the woman in front of him, that not only makes things worthy, she makes him feel alive again and making him complete on a higher emotional level...once the lines of friendship towards love have been erased, Katherine's new found will and strength to get better lies in Nico's support and affection
He's made me want to change and take steps forward – for me, but also because I want to be able to be whole for him.
BUT the biggest struggle for both of them is yet to come...
not only is Nico fighting to help Katherine to control her illness
You have to let the fear in, Katherine.
You let it in and do the thing you're afraid of.
If you let it in, it can't hurt you.
Don't fight the fear anymore.
You breathe and roll with it.
but they will have to conquor the basic FEARS of all – fear of LOSS and fear of LIVING
Show me we're alive
My illness does not define me.
I define me.
Beautifully written story about inner strength, will power, and continuous struggle to overcome your faults, thriving for self-improvement, build up and inner growth through love and support whether we speak of grave illness, common pains and fears of everyday life's gutter...It's fantastically detailed in descriptive reactions of the main character that were caused by her medical disorder, both characters were layered and simply realistically portrayed.
It was emotional and just basically authentic, through implemented „real life“ tragic events in the story, while pointing out the actual premise of the storyline – don't take things that matter lightly or for granted...you might painfuly realize they mattered when it's too late.
***ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
For more info and reviews visit
May 3, 2017
I have to commend Sidney Halston for handling the subject matter in Pull Me Close with consideration, sensitivity and reality. She has taken real-life tragedies and the lasting effects of anxiety and PTSD, and balanced them with a romance that is incredibly sexy, featuring a couple who don't hit if off particularly well, creating a real emotional, touching journey.
When it comes to anxiety and PTSD, I wear the shoes of Nico to a degree because I'm the one who sees people she loves battling anxiety. From his incorrect assumptions to his trying to do better and be the support that Katherine needs to get through each day and her triggers, we get to know these characters intimately and experience all their highs and lows.
“This man who’s somehow made me come alive. Made me want to try to get out and live.”
Had it not been for feeling that the event heading towards the end seemed underplayed and rushed through a little, then this would have been venturing into 5-star territory for me, but nevertheless, Pull Me Close is definitely one I recommend reading: I don't think I can say much more that's not been said by others and the raft of positive reviews it has, they're for a reason. And I can say without a shadow of a doubt that I'll be reading the next book in the series as Nico's brother Matt has his own story to tell.
When it comes to anxiety and PTSD, I wear the shoes of Nico to a degree because I'm the one who sees people she loves battling anxiety. From his incorrect assumptions to his trying to do better and be the support that Katherine needs to get through each day and her triggers, we get to know these characters intimately and experience all their highs and lows.
“This man who’s somehow made me come alive. Made me want to try to get out and live.”
Had it not been for feeling that the event heading towards the end seemed underplayed and rushed through a little, then this would have been venturing into 5-star territory for me, but nevertheless, Pull Me Close is definitely one I recommend reading: I don't think I can say much more that's not been said by others and the raft of positive reviews it has, they're for a reason. And I can say without a shadow of a doubt that I'll be reading the next book in the series as Nico's brother Matt has his own story to tell.
December 24, 2016
GREAT! SCOTT! Talk about getting sucked in and held onto until the very last word. Just so everyone knows upfront, this story addresses PTSD in a powerful and unforgettable way and was next to impossible to put down. I was mesmerized by these two magnetic and scarred individuals; brave Katherine and brooding, oh my, how he could brood, Nico. I enjoyed the dual POV writing style, which worked incredibly well. And then there was Matt, the sweet, adorable twin brother of Nico.
Katherine is dying. Everything around her is spinning as the sweat pours down her body. Her heart is racing and the tightness in her chest makes it hard to breathe. Hysteria is settling in ........ yes, ....... she is dying of another panic attack. Her hands reach out to grasp the walls, but she slowly sinks towards the nightclub's bathroom floor.
Emerald green eyes stare in utter disgust at Katherine as she begins to waken. He is the hottest, most gorgeous man she has ever laid eyes on. Embarrassed and totally unaware of her surroundings, she lingers there with her constant companion, named anxiety, ready to take her down again.
Nico, owner of Panic, is sick and tired of dealing with the drunks and wasted users who are giving his nightclub a bad rap and causing too many run-ins with the police. He. Has. Had. It!!! Once again, a passed out loser is laying on the couch of his office. He wants her woken up, then tossed out on her butt and permanently banned from his club. He detests "junkies"! A year ago, he had been in love with and engaged to one who robbed him blind, literally and figuratively.
As fate ultimately intervenes, Katherine and Nico become each other's saving grace.
The events in the lives of these individuals were riveting and knocked me for a loop!
Okay, but I do need to fuss here for just a smidge. I really wish disclaimers were added to the synopsis of a book. Case in point, beware if you are not a fan of the F-bomb, because plenty, and I do mean p. l. e. n. t. y. are dropped. Also the sex scenes are very explicit, and yeah at times, crude. Just sayin'! Wasn't expectin'! 4.5 Stars.
*I received this book, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Katherine is dying. Everything around her is spinning as the sweat pours down her body. Her heart is racing and the tightness in her chest makes it hard to breathe. Hysteria is settling in ........ yes, ....... she is dying of another panic attack. Her hands reach out to grasp the walls, but she slowly sinks towards the nightclub's bathroom floor.
Emerald green eyes stare in utter disgust at Katherine as she begins to waken. He is the hottest, most gorgeous man she has ever laid eyes on. Embarrassed and totally unaware of her surroundings, she lingers there with her constant companion, named anxiety, ready to take her down again.
Nico, owner of Panic, is sick and tired of dealing with the drunks and wasted users who are giving his nightclub a bad rap and causing too many run-ins with the police. He. Has. Had. It!!! Once again, a passed out loser is laying on the couch of his office. He wants her woken up, then tossed out on her butt and permanently banned from his club. He detests "junkies"! A year ago, he had been in love with and engaged to one who robbed him blind, literally and figuratively.
As fate ultimately intervenes, Katherine and Nico become each other's saving grace.
"If there is one thing I know, it's that this man - the same man who is completely repulsed by me - won't let me fall."
"I can't untangle myself from her. It's like she's brought a light and purpose back into my life even though she has a dark cloud hanging over her."
The events in the lives of these individuals were riveting and knocked me for a loop!
Okay, but I do need to fuss here for just a smidge. I really wish disclaimers were added to the synopsis of a book. Case in point, beware if you are not a fan of the F-bomb, because plenty, and I do mean p. l. e. n. t. y. are dropped. Also the sex scenes are very explicit, and yeah at times, crude. Just sayin'! Wasn't expectin'! 4.5 Stars.
*I received this book, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review*
May 8, 2017
#99cents (05/07/2017) Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2qQZLKs
Pull Me Close is a fascinating and intense read about fear and the healing power of love. A sweet, sexy and heartfelt unputdownable story.
When Katherine’s sister decides to throw an engagement party at one of Miami’s hottest night clubs, Katherine decides she can brave the outside world and even though she takes precautions, the panic attack that assails her is inevitable and renders her unconscious. Waking up to find a very attractive yet angry club owner who accuses her of drug abuse is almost as disturbing as the previous night. Setting out to explain her condition she starts a friendship that will change her life forever.
Two of Nico’s most important people in his life have lied and used him, leaving him with zero tolerance. So when he’s forced to help out a girl who passed out in his bar most likely due to drugs all he wants to do is get rid of her no matter how attractive she is. He’s more than skeptical when she tells him about her affliction, but after doing some research he starts to appreciate her courage. The more he gets to know her the more he wants to help and protect her and have her as his, but can he help her enough to have a normal and healthy relationship or will his life next to her be reduced to her tiny apartment?
I had no clue what this book was about except that it was written by Sidney Halston, and just for that I wanted to read it. I was hooked from page one with the interesting title name and Katherine’s compelling description of having a panic attack, right up to the very end where thanks to her backbone and the love of a patient and caring man she finds herself truly living happily.
This is the part of my review where I normally talk about the hero and heroine and their relationship which perhaps include a bit more details than the book’s synopsis or my summary. But if you’re like me, who trusts her authors (meaning those authors who you love and will read not matter what) and craves adventure once in a while, you’ll stop reading after this paragraph and jump right into this very emotional, heartfelt read knowing only that Sidney does a wonderful job at hashing out the complex characters and developing an intense love story that will stay with you for a long time.
If you’re still reading though, then I guess you want more deets, but since this review is already a bit long, I’ll try to be brief. Even though Katherine’s anxiety disorder confined her to her apartment, she had a great personality and even greater strength and every time she remembered the event the caused her PTSD I got chocked up myself because I remember in detail what I felt during and after the events of 9/11. And knowing that like our fictional heroine, there must be thousands of real life stories like hers adds real and raw layer of emotions to this story.
Nico was an incredible book boyfriend. As a friend recently described the type, he’s mean, moody and completely alpha male sexy. He has his own issues that make him skeptical of everyone, keeping tall walls around himself but once he lets Katherine in there’s nothing he won’t do to help and protect her. He’s thoughtful, caring, patient and have I mentioned sexy? Completely swoon worthy. I highlighted so many great moments between them I wish I could share with you! I’ve tried to pick the best ones though.
Finally I need to mention Nico’s brother, Matt, whose book is up next. He seems to be fun and laid back but we know that he has his own demons. I can’t wait to read about him and hopefully we can get at least a novella for Geo and David, Nico’s best friend and his wife who are great supporting characters and get caught up in a completely OMG I didn’t see that coming twist.
Pull Me Close is book #1 in the Panic Series by Sidney Halston. It touches on real issues caused by real life events, wrapped up in a sweet and sexy story. It’s a standalone contemporary romance, written from both points of view with a happy ending.
Author’s pinterest board -> https://es.pinterest.com/shalston/pan...
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Pull Me Close is a fascinating and intense read about fear and the healing power of love. A sweet, sexy and heartfelt unputdownable story.
“My illness does not define me. I define me.”
When Katherine’s sister decides to throw an engagement party at one of Miami’s hottest night clubs, Katherine decides she can brave the outside world and even though she takes precautions, the panic attack that assails her is inevitable and renders her unconscious. Waking up to find a very attractive yet angry club owner who accuses her of drug abuse is almost as disturbing as the previous night. Setting out to explain her condition she starts a friendship that will change her life forever.
“Her eyes are wet, and I can tell she’s trying to hold back tears. The depth of her sorrow and torment are laid out bare on her face in a way that takes my breath away.”
Two of Nico’s most important people in his life have lied and used him, leaving him with zero tolerance. So when he’s forced to help out a girl who passed out in his bar most likely due to drugs all he wants to do is get rid of her no matter how attractive she is. He’s more than skeptical when she tells him about her affliction, but after doing some research he starts to appreciate her courage. The more he gets to know her the more he wants to help and protect her and have her as his, but can he help her enough to have a normal and healthy relationship or will his life next to her be reduced to her tiny apartment?
“I’m not going to let you push me away when we’ve barely just started getting to know each other. Plus I’d really like to kiss you again. I’m coming over.” ~Nico to Katherine
I had no clue what this book was about except that it was written by Sidney Halston, and just for that I wanted to read it. I was hooked from page one with the interesting title name and Katherine’s compelling description of having a panic attack, right up to the very end where thanks to her backbone and the love of a patient and caring man she finds herself truly living happily.
“Just breathe, corazón,” I say into her hair. “Because it’s really that simple.” Strangely enough, even though she’s tormented inside, she’s actually a balm to me. Her presence is calming.
This is the part of my review where I normally talk about the hero and heroine and their relationship which perhaps include a bit more details than the book’s synopsis or my summary. But if you’re like me, who trusts her authors (meaning those authors who you love and will read not matter what) and craves adventure once in a while, you’ll stop reading after this paragraph and jump right into this very emotional, heartfelt read knowing only that Sidney does a wonderful job at hashing out the complex characters and developing an intense love story that will stay with you for a long time.
If you’re still reading though, then I guess you want more deets, but since this review is already a bit long, I’ll try to be brief. Even though Katherine’s anxiety disorder confined her to her apartment, she had a great personality and even greater strength and every time she remembered the event the caused her PTSD I got chocked up myself because I remember in detail what I felt during and after the events of 9/11. And knowing that like our fictional heroine, there must be thousands of real life stories like hers adds real and raw layer of emotions to this story.
Nico was an incredible book boyfriend. As a friend recently described the type, he’s mean, moody and completely alpha male sexy. He has his own issues that make him skeptical of everyone, keeping tall walls around himself but once he lets Katherine in there’s nothing he won’t do to help and protect her. He’s thoughtful, caring, patient and have I mentioned sexy? Completely swoon worthy. I highlighted so many great moments between them I wish I could share with you! I’ve tried to pick the best ones though.
“I’ve been researching… Tell me what you need. I want to help.”
“Pull me close and hold me tight.”
Finally I need to mention Nico’s brother, Matt, whose book is up next. He seems to be fun and laid back but we know that he has his own demons. I can’t wait to read about him and hopefully we can get at least a novella for Geo and David, Nico’s best friend and his wife who are great supporting characters and get caught up in a completely OMG I didn’t see that coming twist.
“I’ve decided I’m going to let myself fall in love with you,” I say.
His smile fades. He brings his other had to my cheek, those emerald eyes looking intently at me. “Then you need to catch up, baby, because I’m already in love with you.”
Pull Me Close is book #1 in the Panic Series by Sidney Halston. It touches on real issues caused by real life events, wrapped up in a sweet and sexy story. It’s a standalone contemporary romance, written from both points of view with a happy ending.
Author’s pinterest board -> https://es.pinterest.com/shalston/pan...
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
February 7, 2017
I may be in the minority here, not giving a very high rating to this book but it is because I have serious issues about men like the hero here in this book (dominant men who need submissive women), so I am kind of subjective here. And also, the book was too slow and repetitive for my taste.
Having said that, I can go into more detail now.
This book brings anxiety disorders and PTSD to the attention of the readers. I once suffered from anxiety attacks, too and I thought I could relate to the heroine here and it would hit close to home but her condition was so severe that I thanked God I never got that bad.
Katherine has so many problems related to anxiety, from agoraphobia to mysophobia. She never leaves her apartment. She is afraid of crowds, she is afraid of darkness, she is afraid of elevators, scared of any tiny closed space without windows…
She feels OK only in her apartment. She orders everything home and she works at home. She is a total recluse. She doesn’t have any friends, she tries to hide this condition from her family (I wonder how???). She hasn’t had a relationship with a man for the past 7 years. And so on…
Katherine is like this because she is one of the survivors of
There comes in Nico, the owner of a night club called PANIC in Miami. His last relationship ended badly. His fiancé turned out to be a drug addict, who stole money from him and also cheated on him. That is why, Nico has huge trust issues and a disgust for all addicts.
Nico and Katherine meet when Katherine comes to the engagement party of her sister in Nico’s night club. Although she has taken a Zanax for precaution and wanted to be there for her sister, she can’t help but has a very severe panic attack in the night club.
Nico’s first reaction to her is repulsion because he thinks she has overdosed. Her constant and determined effort to make him believe that she is not an addict was weird as she goes so far to go to the club again the other day in her car and explain her PTSD situation to him. An immediate success after one encounter with a sexy man! I kind of believe that it is not that easily possible for a person like her to achieve it but whatever…
“Pull Me Close” is the story of how these two people become friends and eventually lovers and how they help each other’s problems and how they accept one another.
Katherine hasn’t had any urge to go out of the house and get better for a long time but now she has a reason. She wants to be normal and live a better life with Nico, rather than just exist in her tiny apartment. And she really tries hard for it.
I don’t want to be defined by my illness. I’m not a crazy person. I’m a person who has fears. But if I hole myself up in here and stop living, then the illness is who I am. I don’t want my anxiety to win. I didn’t realize it was winning until that moment at Panic.
Nico, on the other hand, behaves like a total d*ck at the beginning but when he believes that she is not an addict but a sufferer of PTSD, he becomes supportive and understanding to a certain level but he points out that he can’t live a recluse life with her and she has to get better for their relationship to work. That was kind of an irritating thought for me. I mean, of course, you may want the person you like/love to get better for a healthier relationship together but not with the constant thought of “I can’t be with her if she stays like this forever” in your mind.
Anyways, their relationship slowly helps Katherine to get better but there is one more thing I had a problem with. Nico is a dominant man in bed, needing a submissive partner but Katherine is control freak in all aspects of her life. Nico doesn’t know how she will react to him if he ties her up or if she can endure rough sex, etc. but he wants to know, so he asks her if she would be OK with it. I am sorry - it may be only me – but that was the "WTF moment" for me, because I mean, everyone needs to trust their partner a lot to allow it, and Katherine is so fragile and so control freak that I couldn’t believe how she was immediately OK with all his dominant demands just because she was strongly attracted to him.
“You’re kind of scaring me, but you’re kind of turning me on too,” she says…
I didn’t like his cocky talk, either and it may be me only, again.
“I’m good at sex, Katherine. I’m not being cocky, I’m being honest.”
But somehow, all of this works for Katherine and Nico uses sex to bribe her to get out of house. For example, he says he can only have sex with her in his house and to do that, she needs to go out of her house. I have no idea if it is the right thing to do in this condition or not, but personally, I didn’t like it.
“I’ll only have sex with you in my apartment. All those things I want to do to your body, I’ll only do them on my bed. The first time, at least.”
Nico was as supportive as he was pushy. Is this the right combination for a woman like her? I don’t really know. I once suffered from panic attacks for 3 years and personally, I think that a person like him would drive me even more nuts! I would never allow a man to bribe me like this. But I reiterate, it may be just me.
Towards the end of the novel, Nico himself becomes the survivor of the terror attack in , and only then, he understands her better. OK, better late than never!
Apart from my dislike for Nico, I had other problems with the book.
In my opinion, the pacing was off. After a certain point, the story becomes repetitive. Although this slow progress adds reality to the story, it feels boring at times.
I mean it goes on like this:
Katherine manages to get out of her apartment and walk down the stairs
They have sex
Katherine manages to go to the grocery shop
They have sex
Katherine manages to walk by the beach
They have sex
Katherine manages to go on a road trip
They have sex
etc…
But all in all, books like this are important to draw attention to the issue of anxiety disorders and I think this one deserves at least 3 stars for the effort.
Having said that, I can go into more detail now.
This book brings anxiety disorders and PTSD to the attention of the readers. I once suffered from anxiety attacks, too and I thought I could relate to the heroine here and it would hit close to home but her condition was so severe that I thanked God I never got that bad.
Katherine has so many problems related to anxiety, from agoraphobia to mysophobia. She never leaves her apartment. She is afraid of crowds, she is afraid of darkness, she is afraid of elevators, scared of any tiny closed space without windows…
She feels OK only in her apartment. She orders everything home and she works at home. She is a total recluse. She doesn’t have any friends, she tries to hide this condition from her family (I wonder how???). She hasn’t had a relationship with a man for the past 7 years. And so on…
Katherine is like this because she is one of the survivors of
There comes in Nico, the owner of a night club called PANIC in Miami. His last relationship ended badly. His fiancé turned out to be a drug addict, who stole money from him and also cheated on him. That is why, Nico has huge trust issues and a disgust for all addicts.
Nico and Katherine meet when Katherine comes to the engagement party of her sister in Nico’s night club. Although she has taken a Zanax for precaution and wanted to be there for her sister, she can’t help but has a very severe panic attack in the night club.
Nico’s first reaction to her is repulsion because he thinks she has overdosed. Her constant and determined effort to make him believe that she is not an addict was weird as she goes so far to go to the club again the other day in her car and explain her PTSD situation to him. An immediate success after one encounter with a sexy man! I kind of believe that it is not that easily possible for a person like her to achieve it but whatever…
“Pull Me Close” is the story of how these two people become friends and eventually lovers and how they help each other’s problems and how they accept one another.
Katherine hasn’t had any urge to go out of the house and get better for a long time but now she has a reason. She wants to be normal and live a better life with Nico, rather than just exist in her tiny apartment. And she really tries hard for it.
I don’t want to be defined by my illness. I’m not a crazy person. I’m a person who has fears. But if I hole myself up in here and stop living, then the illness is who I am. I don’t want my anxiety to win. I didn’t realize it was winning until that moment at Panic.
Nico, on the other hand, behaves like a total d*ck at the beginning but when he believes that she is not an addict but a sufferer of PTSD, he becomes supportive and understanding to a certain level but he points out that he can’t live a recluse life with her and she has to get better for their relationship to work. That was kind of an irritating thought for me. I mean, of course, you may want the person you like/love to get better for a healthier relationship together but not with the constant thought of “I can’t be with her if she stays like this forever” in your mind.
Anyways, their relationship slowly helps Katherine to get better but there is one more thing I had a problem with. Nico is a dominant man in bed, needing a submissive partner but Katherine is control freak in all aspects of her life. Nico doesn’t know how she will react to him if he ties her up or if she can endure rough sex, etc. but he wants to know, so he asks her if she would be OK with it. I am sorry - it may be only me – but that was the "WTF moment" for me, because I mean, everyone needs to trust their partner a lot to allow it, and Katherine is so fragile and so control freak that I couldn’t believe how she was immediately OK with all his dominant demands just because she was strongly attracted to him.
“You’re kind of scaring me, but you’re kind of turning me on too,” she says…
I didn’t like his cocky talk, either and it may be me only, again.
“I’m good at sex, Katherine. I’m not being cocky, I’m being honest.”
But somehow, all of this works for Katherine and Nico uses sex to bribe her to get out of house. For example, he says he can only have sex with her in his house and to do that, she needs to go out of her house. I have no idea if it is the right thing to do in this condition or not, but personally, I didn’t like it.
“I’ll only have sex with you in my apartment. All those things I want to do to your body, I’ll only do them on my bed. The first time, at least.”
Nico was as supportive as he was pushy. Is this the right combination for a woman like her? I don’t really know. I once suffered from panic attacks for 3 years and personally, I think that a person like him would drive me even more nuts! I would never allow a man to bribe me like this. But I reiterate, it may be just me.
Towards the end of the novel, Nico himself becomes the survivor of the terror attack in , and only then, he understands her better. OK, better late than never!
Apart from my dislike for Nico, I had other problems with the book.
In my opinion, the pacing was off. After a certain point, the story becomes repetitive. Although this slow progress adds reality to the story, it feels boring at times.
I mean it goes on like this:
Katherine manages to get out of her apartment and walk down the stairs
They have sex
Katherine manages to go to the grocery shop
They have sex
Katherine manages to walk by the beach
They have sex
Katherine manages to go on a road trip
They have sex
etc…
But all in all, books like this are important to draw attention to the issue of anxiety disorders and I think this one deserves at least 3 stars for the effort.
October 25, 2016
5 - "You're my kind of crazy." Stars!
Sidney Halston, starts her new Panic series by tackling a tricky topic, in an unusual setting and with really enjoyable results.
I have to admit I was not sure whether this was going to be the book for me prior to picking it up as my last attempt at reading this authors work ended up with a DNF, but oh my wow! Pull Me Close grabbed me from its beginning and didn’t let me go until the full story between Katherine and Nico had played out.
"It’s nice having company… Even if the company isn’t very nice."
There was just something about this book, which kept me engaged, the author did such a great job at grabbing me from the beginning that I just fell into this story completely. Katherine Wilson isn’t your average thirty-something woman, having had an extremely traumatic event taint her past, she spends most of her days stuck in her home, and frightened to venture outdoors. So finding herself in a crowded noisy Nightclub at the beginning of the story is completely out of character for her.
I am basically afraid of everything.
Being rescued after having a massive panic attack and then taken home by one of said clubs owners, wasn’t really in her plans for the evening. Especially when he judges her wrongly and treats her appallingly because of it. But there is something about sweet Katherine that keeps drawing Nico back to her, and as he starts to understand more about her and her condition you see that behind the man-bun and beard is a guy with an absolute heart of gold.
"I’m a fucking idiot…"
"I won’t hold it against you."
I don’t want to say a huge amount more about the plot in this one, because I think that discovering Katherine’s’ background, as well as reading about her gradual improvement, with Nico’s help and encouragement is a story you want to take in yourself. But it had me hooked, and I found that authors way of linking things together with true world events really imaginative.
"I can’t erase the past for you. It’s always going to be there. But if you’d just let me, I could help make the future better."
I loved Nico, he was the perfect mix of dirty, sexy and extremely sweet. He pushed Katherine when she needed it, but he also wasn’t afraid to deal with the darker side of her condition, I think that the author made both these characters so much more than you initially think they are, and as the story progressed each new thing about them that you learn just made them more and more likeable.
"Pulling you close and holding you tightly."
I am so happy to see that Matt, Nico’s twin brother is up next with Make Me Stay due for release in Summer 2017, the author dangled a few hints about this guy in this book and it makes me eager to see how his story with April White plays out.
"You’re not at all what I expected."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Sidney Halston, starts her new Panic series by tackling a tricky topic, in an unusual setting and with really enjoyable results.
I have to admit I was not sure whether this was going to be the book for me prior to picking it up as my last attempt at reading this authors work ended up with a DNF, but oh my wow! Pull Me Close grabbed me from its beginning and didn’t let me go until the full story between Katherine and Nico had played out.
"It’s nice having company… Even if the company isn’t very nice."
There was just something about this book, which kept me engaged, the author did such a great job at grabbing me from the beginning that I just fell into this story completely. Katherine Wilson isn’t your average thirty-something woman, having had an extremely traumatic event taint her past, she spends most of her days stuck in her home, and frightened to venture outdoors. So finding herself in a crowded noisy Nightclub at the beginning of the story is completely out of character for her.
I am basically afraid of everything.
Being rescued after having a massive panic attack and then taken home by one of said clubs owners, wasn’t really in her plans for the evening. Especially when he judges her wrongly and treats her appallingly because of it. But there is something about sweet Katherine that keeps drawing Nico back to her, and as he starts to understand more about her and her condition you see that behind the man-bun and beard is a guy with an absolute heart of gold.
"I’m a fucking idiot…"
"I won’t hold it against you."
I don’t want to say a huge amount more about the plot in this one, because I think that discovering Katherine’s’ background, as well as reading about her gradual improvement, with Nico’s help and encouragement is a story you want to take in yourself. But it had me hooked, and I found that authors way of linking things together with true world events really imaginative.
"I can’t erase the past for you. It’s always going to be there. But if you’d just let me, I could help make the future better."
I loved Nico, he was the perfect mix of dirty, sexy and extremely sweet. He pushed Katherine when she needed it, but he also wasn’t afraid to deal with the darker side of her condition, I think that the author made both these characters so much more than you initially think they are, and as the story progressed each new thing about them that you learn just made them more and more likeable.
"Pulling you close and holding you tightly."
I am so happy to see that Matt, Nico’s twin brother is up next with Make Me Stay due for release in Summer 2017, the author dangled a few hints about this guy in this book and it makes me eager to see how his story with April White plays out.
"You’re not at all what I expected."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
October 26, 2016
Damn I loved this book. Review to come.
November 24, 2016
Just some advice: you might need a Xanax to get through this.
And on a random note, this has both the best and worst nickname ever, LOL! I cringed every time Nico said 'sweet Katherine,' but melted whenever he called her corazón, because come on, that's so freaking sweet.
And on a random note, this has both the best and worst nickname ever, LOL! I cringed every time Nico said 'sweet Katherine,' but melted whenever he called her corazón, because come on, that's so freaking sweet.
November 15, 2021
4.5 stars**
Re read November 2021
Re read November 2021
March 6, 2025
I was very interested in the PTSD/anxiety representation of this premise, but I just could not get past what an asshole the H was. He jumps to conclusions about the h at their first meeting (thanks to his past) and assumes she's a junkie, when she's having a panic attack and has taken anxiety medication. They have a couple more awkward encounters and for some reason, the h is genuinely concerned about his perceptions of her so she forces the issue to make sure he knows she's struggling with mental health vs. illegal substances. Even as they start to establish a friendship, the whole thing felt off balance to me and the H continues to make dickish remarks. I skimmed a good bit of this book to find out what happens and he continues to be pushy and lack understanding in significant ways. I love growth for main characters and the h achieves this, even as she continues to face challenges because she's not magically cured. This was simply not the right fit for me.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and both are experienced though the h had been celibate for years because of her PTSD. The H had been in a relationship that ended and then had some ONS but didn't come across as a manwhore. The H thinks about how the h came across as inexperienced and after their first kiss he has thoughts that are icky about how it doesn't sit right with him that she felt more experienced than he expected.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and both are experienced though the h had been celibate for years because of her PTSD. The H had been in a relationship that ended and then had some ONS but didn't come across as a manwhore. The H thinks about how the h came across as inexperienced and after their first kiss he has thoughts that are icky about how it doesn't sit right with him that she felt more experienced than he expected.
October 30, 2016
4.5 stars
Pull Me Close was such a good read.
The writing was well done, the storyline capturing my interest, holding it from start to end, I just didn't want it to end.
This book brought out all the feels in me, I cried, I laughed, I swooned then I cried some more. My heart went out to Katherine, the daily struggles she has with all her fears and anxieties left me wanting to reach into my kindle to protect and comfort her on more than one occasion.
At first I wasn't sure I was going to like Nick/Nico. I found him harsh and quick to judge and make assumptions about Katherine. But he quickly won me over when I saw the real man come out from behind the mile high walls he had to expose a sweet, warm and thoughtful man who falls deeply in love with Katherine and doesn't let her anxieties push him away.
I loved watching their relationship unfold, it was a daily struggle for Katherine and Nico as anything could set off a panic attack. But with Nico's encouragement and love, Katherine was able to work through her fears and find a way to handle her attacks and not let them take over her life.
Life for these two was never going to be easy but I had no doubt the love they shared was going to last a lifetime.
Pull Me Close was a deep and heartfelt read, it will draw you in and take you for one hell of an emotional ride and leave you feeling happy and content.
What a wonderful start to the Panic series, can't wait for Matt's book next in Make Me Stay.
*On a side note, I wanted to thank author Sidney Halston for writing and sharing her own personal struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. And for encouraging people who may also be struggling with the same issues not to be afraid or ashamed to seek help, bravo Sidney <3*
Purchase Links ~
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pull-...
Google: https://play.google.com/…/det…/Sidney...…
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id11...
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebo...
A big thank you to Random House - Loveswept via Netgalley for the advance copy.
Pull Me Close was such a good read.
The writing was well done, the storyline capturing my interest, holding it from start to end, I just didn't want it to end.
This book brought out all the feels in me, I cried, I laughed, I swooned then I cried some more. My heart went out to Katherine, the daily struggles she has with all her fears and anxieties left me wanting to reach into my kindle to protect and comfort her on more than one occasion.
At first I wasn't sure I was going to like Nick/Nico. I found him harsh and quick to judge and make assumptions about Katherine. But he quickly won me over when I saw the real man come out from behind the mile high walls he had to expose a sweet, warm and thoughtful man who falls deeply in love with Katherine and doesn't let her anxieties push him away.
I loved watching their relationship unfold, it was a daily struggle for Katherine and Nico as anything could set off a panic attack. But with Nico's encouragement and love, Katherine was able to work through her fears and find a way to handle her attacks and not let them take over her life.
Life for these two was never going to be easy but I had no doubt the love they shared was going to last a lifetime.
Pull Me Close was a deep and heartfelt read, it will draw you in and take you for one hell of an emotional ride and leave you feeling happy and content.
What a wonderful start to the Panic series, can't wait for Matt's book next in Make Me Stay.
*On a side note, I wanted to thank author Sidney Halston for writing and sharing her own personal struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. And for encouraging people who may also be struggling with the same issues not to be afraid or ashamed to seek help, bravo Sidney <3*
Purchase Links ~
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pull-...
Google: https://play.google.com/…/det…/Sidney...…
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id11...
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebo...
A big thank you to Random House - Loveswept via Netgalley for the advance copy.
October 25, 2016
NOW RELEASED!
This was my first Sidney Halston book and definitely will not be my last. This story kept me interested and staying up late to find out what happens next.
You have Katie aka Katherine
And Nico aka Nick aka Nicky
Katie suffers from panic attacks/claustrophobia/agoraphobia/ PTSD due to a very traumatic event in her past. She has been putting on a facade so when her sister invites her to her bachelorette party at the club Panic, Katie is determined to try and get out of the house and go.
Unfortunately, when she gets there the Xanax (prescribed) she takes does not seem to help and she has a panic attack and eventually passes out, having one of the bouncers find her.
Nick, one of the owners sees her and thinks she's a junkie and is completely disgusted.
Since the club is under much scrutiny with the police, Nico's brother Matt talks him into taking her home.
She tries to explain to Nico her condition but he doesn't quite believe her and is an asshole to her.
For some reason, it bothers her and she is determined to make sure he knows she isn't really on drugs.
With some help from Matt and a few visits to her apartment the two become "friends" and he finally starts to understand her condition. Nico tries to help Katie overcome her issues but it is definitely a struggle.
Can Nico handle everything that is being thrown his way or will he eventually reach his breaking point with Katie?
Some events in the book that were mentioned really struck home with me. I laughed in many parts and definitely cried as well. I have no clue how accurate this is for someone with those diagnoses but I liked that she did not just wrap everything up neatly in a bow and it showed how Katie struggled even as she wanted to get better.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This was my first Sidney Halston book and definitely will not be my last. This story kept me interested and staying up late to find out what happens next.
You have Katie aka Katherine
And Nico aka Nick aka Nicky
Katie suffers from panic attacks/claustrophobia/agoraphobia/ PTSD due to a very traumatic event in her past. She has been putting on a facade so when her sister invites her to her bachelorette party at the club Panic, Katie is determined to try and get out of the house and go.
Unfortunately, when she gets there the Xanax (prescribed) she takes does not seem to help and she has a panic attack and eventually passes out, having one of the bouncers find her.
Nick, one of the owners sees her and thinks she's a junkie and is completely disgusted.
Since the club is under much scrutiny with the police, Nico's brother Matt talks him into taking her home.
She tries to explain to Nico her condition but he doesn't quite believe her and is an asshole to her.
For some reason, it bothers her and she is determined to make sure he knows she isn't really on drugs.
With some help from Matt and a few visits to her apartment the two become "friends" and he finally starts to understand her condition. Nico tries to help Katie overcome her issues but it is definitely a struggle.
Can Nico handle everything that is being thrown his way or will he eventually reach his breaking point with Katie?
Some events in the book that were mentioned really struck home with me. I laughed in many parts and definitely cried as well. I have no clue how accurate this is for someone with those diagnoses but I liked that she did not just wrap everything up neatly in a bow and it showed how Katie struggled even as she wanted to get better.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
September 12, 2024
Interesting characters.
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💜🩵
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎
Character development: ☺️😊😁🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Katherine - she was trapped in a subway for nearly an entire day in New York on September 11, 2001. The passengers on the train knew something terrible had happened but didn’t know what. They were locked down in the dark for hours and when they finally were rescued, it was to find a changed New York skyline. To make matters worse, her mother was in the world trade center and died that day. To this day (15 years later), Kate suffers from severe anxiety, agoraphobia and PTSD which has gotten worse the last few years.
The Hero: Nick - he and his family own the trendiest nightclub in town; a place called Panic. His father used to run the place and got involved in the drug trade and has since been arrested and is in jail. Nick and his twin brother Matt are now struggling to make a go of the place without the drugs and to keep it a clean establishment. Nick had been in love with a girl who eventually got into drugs and when she left, she took most of his money.
The story: Katherine hasn’t told her sister about her issues, so when her sister has a party at Panic, Kate decides to try to leave her house and go. Though when she is in the club, filled with people, her anxiety gets the best of her, and she has a severe panic attack and passes out. She ends up in Nick’s office and he is none to happy, thinking she is a drug addict who got too wasted and passed out.
The two main characters have a lot to overcome in this book, and the misunderstanding about her being a drug addict was just the start. Though I liked the characters, this book didn’t strike me as anything spectacular. It was good and I liked that Katherine was able to work on her issues and overcome a lot of her anxieties. She seemed like such a weak character at the start, but she showed that she had inner strength.
This audiobook was told in two points of view via duet narration and was narrated by Aletha George and Joe Arden. Both of these narrators are terrific and have great voices. Aletha George has a soft feminine voice and sounds very natural. Joe Arden is one of my favorite narrators; he has a deep gravelly voice and always does a fantastic job.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💜🩵
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎
Character development: ☺️😊😁🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Katherine - she was trapped in a subway for nearly an entire day in New York on September 11, 2001. The passengers on the train knew something terrible had happened but didn’t know what. They were locked down in the dark for hours and when they finally were rescued, it was to find a changed New York skyline. To make matters worse, her mother was in the world trade center and died that day. To this day (15 years later), Kate suffers from severe anxiety, agoraphobia and PTSD which has gotten worse the last few years.
The Hero: Nick - he and his family own the trendiest nightclub in town; a place called Panic. His father used to run the place and got involved in the drug trade and has since been arrested and is in jail. Nick and his twin brother Matt are now struggling to make a go of the place without the drugs and to keep it a clean establishment. Nick had been in love with a girl who eventually got into drugs and when she left, she took most of his money.
The story: Katherine hasn’t told her sister about her issues, so when her sister has a party at Panic, Kate decides to try to leave her house and go. Though when she is in the club, filled with people, her anxiety gets the best of her, and she has a severe panic attack and passes out. She ends up in Nick’s office and he is none to happy, thinking she is a drug addict who got too wasted and passed out.
The two main characters have a lot to overcome in this book, and the misunderstanding about her being a drug addict was just the start. Though I liked the characters, this book didn’t strike me as anything spectacular. It was good and I liked that Katherine was able to work on her issues and overcome a lot of her anxieties. She seemed like such a weak character at the start, but she showed that she had inner strength.
This audiobook was told in two points of view via duet narration and was narrated by Aletha George and Joe Arden. Both of these narrators are terrific and have great voices. Aletha George has a soft feminine voice and sounds very natural. Joe Arden is one of my favorite narrators; he has a deep gravelly voice and always does a fantastic job.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
October 25, 2016
First and foremost, I just want to say something to the author:
Sydney, I really just wanted to thank you for writing this book and humbling me with a new understanding and compassion for all of the survivors/fighters in the world! Thank you for putting me inside of their minds and having me feel what they feel and see what they see! I feel like the scales have fallen from my eyes to be more aware of others that are around me! To not just think about myself but to be more aware of what others have gone through and how they just might need that someone in their lives to give them that "push" or someone to say "just breathe"! I absolutely love to read but there is nothing better than to read something that will forever change your life! Not in just the "oh, this is a story I will never forget" way but in a "this story has changed me to want to help others" way! Thank you for writing about strength and how to never give up! Thank you for writing this inspiring and perfect work of art! <3
""Life is just a series of curveballs thrown at you. Some knock you down. Some you hit over the fence, making you feel like a winner until the next one comes barreling by. It’s how you react to those that knock you down that define you. I have not gotten up and dusted myself off and prepared for the next ball. No, I’ve opted out of the game completely."
The way Sydney was able to incorporate real life tragic events into this story as well as address personal disorders is what makes this book such a jewel! You don't read about this stuff everyday! I don't really want to write about anymore of the story because I feel like you should just read this book! Trust me, you haven't read this storyline recently or maybe at all! Her writing is perfect and it's super steamy which is always a plus! ;) Did I mention that the male lead has a beard, long hair that he wears in a man knot, has tattoos and is a bad boy, dirty talker?!!! Just saying!
"Just Breathe" and 1-Click this book! You have to read the book to see what I did there....lol!!!!
{I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book Via NetGalley}
Sydney, I really just wanted to thank you for writing this book and humbling me with a new understanding and compassion for all of the survivors/fighters in the world! Thank you for putting me inside of their minds and having me feel what they feel and see what they see! I feel like the scales have fallen from my eyes to be more aware of others that are around me! To not just think about myself but to be more aware of what others have gone through and how they just might need that someone in their lives to give them that "push" or someone to say "just breathe"! I absolutely love to read but there is nothing better than to read something that will forever change your life! Not in just the "oh, this is a story I will never forget" way but in a "this story has changed me to want to help others" way! Thank you for writing about strength and how to never give up! Thank you for writing this inspiring and perfect work of art! <3
""Life is just a series of curveballs thrown at you. Some knock you down. Some you hit over the fence, making you feel like a winner until the next one comes barreling by. It’s how you react to those that knock you down that define you. I have not gotten up and dusted myself off and prepared for the next ball. No, I’ve opted out of the game completely."
The way Sydney was able to incorporate real life tragic events into this story as well as address personal disorders is what makes this book such a jewel! You don't read about this stuff everyday! I don't really want to write about anymore of the story because I feel like you should just read this book! Trust me, you haven't read this storyline recently or maybe at all! Her writing is perfect and it's super steamy which is always a plus! ;) Did I mention that the male lead has a beard, long hair that he wears in a man knot, has tattoos and is a bad boy, dirty talker?!!! Just saying!
"Just Breathe" and 1-Click this book! You have to read the book to see what I did there....lol!!!!
{I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book Via NetGalley}
June 1, 2017
Anxiety is an incredibly difficult illness to have. Because with anxiety, like many other mental health illnesses, you're not just facing the illness, you're also facing the stigma. It's a hard concept to explain to other people, and many are all too willing to write it off. And I love books that, and authors who, aren't afraid to tackle these disorders.
I am definitely an anxious person, so I really appreciated the depth and thoroughness of how this author described Katherine's fears. I can't pretend I completely understand her situation, because I don't. But I do know what it's like to be fearful and not have a clue as to how to stop it.
I think what I appreciated the most was how she weaved the romance into dealing with Katherine's health. She didn't meet Nico and immediately get better. She still struggled, but what meeting Nico did do was give her a reason to want to get better.
"The truth is, I haven't made any progress in the last few years because I didn't need to."Nico was the perfect combination of tough and gentle. He pushed her when she needed it and consoled her when he pushed too hard. Nico just wants her to get better, and despite her fears, she truly wants to be healthy, too. She hates being trapped in her mind.
It's hard to write much of a review for this because it isn't a fast-paced, action-packed, plot-driven story. It's all about the feelings and personal growth. It's very character-driven, and not just for Katherine, but Nico, too. But it wasn't all heavy, there were funny and sexy moments, too. The aspects blended together very nicely, and despite the heartache I felt for Katherine, it wasn't a depressing book. It was filled with a great deal of hope. If you're a fan of romance books that deal with mental health, you'll definitely want to check this out! <3
And because I can't help myself, here are some of my favorite quotes:
"Life is just a series of curveballs thrown at you. Some knock you down. Some you hit over the fence, making you feel like a winner until the next one comes barreling by. It's how you react to those that knock you down that define you. I have not gotten up and dusted myself off and prepared for the next ball. No, I've opted out of the game completely. That is not how my mother would have wanted me to live. That's not how I want to live."
"Pull me close and hold me tight."
"What you and I do is special. It's different from anything else I've ever done with anyone else. Mostly because you're you and you're special to me."
"Yesterday was hormones, lust, and uncertainty. Today it's promise, tenderness, and familiarity."
"I wish you could've met her."
"Your mom?"
"No. Me."
"My illness does not define me.Safety:
I define me."
Closure:
The ending seemed more of a way to lead into the next couple's book, which I'm super excited for and intrigued by :))
October 25, 2016
4.5 stars! What an amazing book. Aaaa-maaa-ziiing.
First of all, I have to say I am a HUGE mama bear when it comes to topics of mental health and autism (I am an autism mom and mental health professional). I am super protective and defensive of these subjects, so I was a little scared when I realized this book was centered around a severe mental illness. Luckily, I believe the author treated this subject matter with care and respect, and it turned out to be an amazing story!
Hero: 4.5 stars! Wow. This asshole was so hurt by his past that it’s like he made it his mission to be nasty to absolutely every single person. Thankfully he was also this amazingly sweet and caring person once a person was able to fight their way through his exterior. Nico turn out to be an amazing character and H for the h. Definitely book boyfriend material.
Heroine: 4.5 stars! Katherine was an incredibly complex character. I liked her easily and could feel the panic and stress she had throughout the entire book. Miss Halston did a wonderful job showcasing panic attacks along with the long list of phobias Katherine had. I was rooting for Katherine the entire time. Also, thank you Miss Halston for
Plot: 3.5 – 4 stars! Okay this is where I get mama bearish. When it comes to mental illness I can’t completely shut off my brain and act like this is a work of fiction. I have no issues with unrealistic content in my books, but if it has to do with mental illness, I need it to be as realistic and accurate as possible. Having said that, everyone is affected by situations differently, their treatment is different, and their outcome is different. While the book as a whole is great, I still was nit picking when it came to Katherine’s progress. I won’t get into what I think is right/wrong, but that is where my star deductions come from for this section.
Sex Scenes: 4 stars! Great, hot, and well written.
What I loved: The couple. The complex story. The handling of Katherine’s mental health issues.
What I disliked: My nit picking with Katherine’s progress; this isn’t something that should deter anyone else from this amazing story.
Will I read this author again? Yes. Yes. Yes. Especially this series!
In short: A great emotionally complex read without the tears! Loved it!
Spoiler shit: Uhhhh… pretty damn safe.
Condoms:
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book.**
First of all, I have to say I am a HUGE mama bear when it comes to topics of mental health and autism (I am an autism mom and mental health professional). I am super protective and defensive of these subjects, so I was a little scared when I realized this book was centered around a severe mental illness. Luckily, I believe the author treated this subject matter with care and respect, and it turned out to be an amazing story!
Hero: 4.5 stars! Wow. This asshole was so hurt by his past that it’s like he made it his mission to be nasty to absolutely every single person. Thankfully he was also this amazingly sweet and caring person once a person was able to fight their way through his exterior. Nico turn out to be an amazing character and H for the h. Definitely book boyfriend material.
Heroine: 4.5 stars! Katherine was an incredibly complex character. I liked her easily and could feel the panic and stress she had throughout the entire book. Miss Halston did a wonderful job showcasing panic attacks along with the long list of phobias Katherine had. I was rooting for Katherine the entire time. Also, thank you Miss Halston for
Plot: 3.5 – 4 stars! Okay this is where I get mama bearish. When it comes to mental illness I can’t completely shut off my brain and act like this is a work of fiction. I have no issues with unrealistic content in my books, but if it has to do with mental illness, I need it to be as realistic and accurate as possible. Having said that, everyone is affected by situations differently, their treatment is different, and their outcome is different. While the book as a whole is great, I still was nit picking when it came to Katherine’s progress. I won’t get into what I think is right/wrong, but that is where my star deductions come from for this section.
Sex Scenes: 4 stars! Great, hot, and well written.
What I loved: The couple. The complex story. The handling of Katherine’s mental health issues.
What I disliked: My nit picking with Katherine’s progress; this isn’t something that should deter anyone else from this amazing story.
Will I read this author again? Yes. Yes. Yes. Especially this series!
In short: A great emotionally complex read without the tears! Loved it!
Spoiler shit: Uhhhh… pretty damn safe.
Condoms:
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book.**
October 30, 2016
4 Stars
"You pull me close, and hold me tight."
This book is making the buzz and it’s totally deserved, in my opinion. The author has woven a unique story, with dialogues that felt real and unforgettable characters. She tackles the subject of mental illness and PTSD with talent and sensibility.
Katherine Wilson used to be happy and carefree, until a traumatic event changed her life. Meeting Nico Moreno, the owner of the most exclusive and famous Miami Beach nightclub should not have been in the cards for her. She lives as a recluse with her cat, never leaving her apartment, and is scared of about everything. Yet, she accepted to attend her sister’s engagement party. But once inside the nightclub, she suffers from a panic and anxiety attack. The author makes you feel Katherine’s panic and the way she thinks she is losing her mind. I was glued to my kindle reading those lines!
Nico mistakes her for a junkie at first, her symptoms are very similar to drug addiction. He has an urge to help her, but doesn’t understand her strange behavior. He has suffered a lot of his father’s mistakes and is mad at the world. Helping Katherine is his way to canalize his anger, and transform it in a positive feeling. But he has totally entered unknown territory with her, despite their obvious connection.
Nico’s journey of acceptance of Katherine’s limitations was a great read. His character grew so much over the course of the story, and it felt real. Their story is a slow burn. Step by step, Nico saves Katherine from herself, convincing her to do things outside of her comfort zone and giving her a sense of safety. Katherine didn’t realize how much she craved human interactions until she met Nico.
I loved the intensity and authenticity of this story. This book is a gripping and emotional read, that kept me hooked until the very last page. Pull Me Close is the first standalone in a new series, and is told in dual POV.
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.
"You pull me close, and hold me tight."
This book is making the buzz and it’s totally deserved, in my opinion. The author has woven a unique story, with dialogues that felt real and unforgettable characters. She tackles the subject of mental illness and PTSD with talent and sensibility.
Katherine Wilson used to be happy and carefree, until a traumatic event changed her life. Meeting Nico Moreno, the owner of the most exclusive and famous Miami Beach nightclub should not have been in the cards for her. She lives as a recluse with her cat, never leaving her apartment, and is scared of about everything. Yet, she accepted to attend her sister’s engagement party. But once inside the nightclub, she suffers from a panic and anxiety attack. The author makes you feel Katherine’s panic and the way she thinks she is losing her mind. I was glued to my kindle reading those lines!
Nico mistakes her for a junkie at first, her symptoms are very similar to drug addiction. He has an urge to help her, but doesn’t understand her strange behavior. He has suffered a lot of his father’s mistakes and is mad at the world. Helping Katherine is his way to canalize his anger, and transform it in a positive feeling. But he has totally entered unknown territory with her, despite their obvious connection.
Nico’s journey of acceptance of Katherine’s limitations was a great read. His character grew so much over the course of the story, and it felt real. Their story is a slow burn. Step by step, Nico saves Katherine from herself, convincing her to do things outside of her comfort zone and giving her a sense of safety. Katherine didn’t realize how much she craved human interactions until she met Nico.
I loved the intensity and authenticity of this story. This book is a gripping and emotional read, that kept me hooked until the very last page. Pull Me Close is the first standalone in a new series, and is told in dual POV.
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.
October 18, 2016
"Pull me close and hold me tight."
Imagine a fear so strong it becomes debilitating for you to leave your apartment, to interact with people, to live a life. This is the story of Pull Me Close. I LOVED IT!
I knew going in that Katherine was agoraphobic with major panic/anxiety attacks. What I didn't know was the reason for her illness. That shocked me.....didn't expect it and it made it even more real for me.....because yeah, I could see something like that affecting you in such a severe way. No spoilers!
And then there was Nico....ah Nico....you were perfect in my opinion. He was the owner of a popular nightclub with his twin brother, Matt (LOVE YOU TOO MATT), and getting over a bad relationship with a junkie who he thought he loved. When he first meets Katherine, she is in a full blown panic attack and Nico misconstrues this as her having a bad reaction to drugs.....and he basically wants no part of her after his last relationship. But circumstances bring them together again, and Nico became the person Katherine needed to get her life back. He was so patient, caring and understanding with her.....sigh, they don't make them like this in the real world! Lol!
Anyway, things were just kinda coasting along for them. Nico challenging her to come to terms with her fear and attempt to re-enter the world. His patience was thinning because he wanted her to travel to Paris with him......she was just not ready for that. BUT, I really did not expect the ending! Wow, things kinda came full circle and Nico, unfortunately, experienced the fear that helped him to understand Katherine's struggles.
LOVED IT AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
And next, we get Matt's story! I loved Matt's relationship with Nico and the way he was so gentle with Katherine. And the ending of this book sets us up. What the hell is going on? June? Lynn? I'm totally intrigued!!!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and really appreciate that!
Imagine a fear so strong it becomes debilitating for you to leave your apartment, to interact with people, to live a life. This is the story of Pull Me Close. I LOVED IT!
I knew going in that Katherine was agoraphobic with major panic/anxiety attacks. What I didn't know was the reason for her illness. That shocked me.....didn't expect it and it made it even more real for me.....because yeah, I could see something like that affecting you in such a severe way. No spoilers!
And then there was Nico....ah Nico....you were perfect in my opinion. He was the owner of a popular nightclub with his twin brother, Matt (LOVE YOU TOO MATT), and getting over a bad relationship with a junkie who he thought he loved. When he first meets Katherine, she is in a full blown panic attack and Nico misconstrues this as her having a bad reaction to drugs.....and he basically wants no part of her after his last relationship. But circumstances bring them together again, and Nico became the person Katherine needed to get her life back. He was so patient, caring and understanding with her.....sigh, they don't make them like this in the real world! Lol!
Anyway, things were just kinda coasting along for them. Nico challenging her to come to terms with her fear and attempt to re-enter the world. His patience was thinning because he wanted her to travel to Paris with him......she was just not ready for that. BUT, I really did not expect the ending! Wow, things kinda came full circle and Nico, unfortunately, experienced the fear that helped him to understand Katherine's struggles.
LOVED IT AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
And next, we get Matt's story! I loved Matt's relationship with Nico and the way he was so gentle with Katherine. And the ending of this book sets us up. What the hell is going on? June? Lynn? I'm totally intrigued!!!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and really appreciate that!
May 14, 2017
4.25 stars
Sweet, sexy and so, so touching.
Katherine has a mental disorder and cannot live her life as she wants to. Nick is a club owner and has is fighting his own demons. Nick notices Katherine in his club and thinks she's yet another junkie. Eyes meet and sparks fly. Nick can't take anymore drama in his life and he decides to nip the attraction in its bud, however does not expect to completely lose himself in all things Katherine.
I LOVED this hero. He had his inner battle about how far he could go with Katherine, yet he was with her every step of the way. Despite her disorder Katherine is sweet, sassy and kind in her own quirky way. I completely adored their relationship.
HIGHLY recommended!
Sweet, sexy and so, so touching.
Katherine has a mental disorder and cannot live her life as she wants to. Nick is a club owner and has is fighting his own demons. Nick notices Katherine in his club and thinks she's yet another junkie. Eyes meet and sparks fly. Nick can't take anymore drama in his life and he decides to nip the attraction in its bud, however does not expect to completely lose himself in all things Katherine.
I LOVED this hero. He had his inner battle about how far he could go with Katherine, yet he was with her every step of the way. Despite her disorder Katherine is sweet, sassy and kind in her own quirky way. I completely adored their relationship.
HIGHLY recommended!
August 2, 2016
ARC received for review
Ms. Halston has done it again. Great book to start what is going to be an amazing series.
Nico and Katherine both have issues, but they overcome them together and alone. Nico is seriously yummy and so is his twin brother Mateo. I love how there are lots of real life happens that are worked into this book, September 11th and....(not telling you what else).
What I'm most excited about is that they know Iggy from Worth the Fight series. Does this mean he'll finally get his own book? Pretty, please. I want a book for David and Geo that happens before this book and after cause you know there's going to be drama after that attack.
Ms. Halston has done it again. Great book to start what is going to be an amazing series.
Nico and Katherine both have issues, but they overcome them together and alone. Nico is seriously yummy and so is his twin brother Mateo. I love how there are lots of real life happens that are worked into this book, September 11th and....(not telling you what else).
What I'm most excited about is that they know Iggy from Worth the Fight series. Does this mean he'll finally get his own book? Pretty, please. I want a book for David and Geo that happens before this book and after cause you know there's going to be drama after that attack.
June 25, 2017
This was so much more than what I thought it was going to be. I absolutely loved this storyline, the buildup of Katherine and Nico’s relationship and especially her strength in facing a disease that was stealing her life from her. There wasn’t a thing about this story that I didn’t like. Once I started I couldn’t stop and found myself staying up all night to finish it. It was just that good. Why the four stars instead of five? While it is an exceptional read, it is not one that I would reread.
Dual POV
No OW/OM drama
No apparent triggers
Dual POV
No OW/OM drama
No apparent triggers
October 27, 2016
3.75 stars
Loved how good the H was to the h! Just wish we didn't get so much info on his past sexual life though. It was sprinkled in throughout the book which brought my mood down every time it popped up. Otherwise it was a pretty good book!
note to self: skip matt's book. he's a huge whore after meeting his h.
Loved how good the H was to the h! Just wish we didn't get so much info on his past sexual life though. It was sprinkled in throughout the book which brought my mood down every time it popped up. Otherwise it was a pretty good book!
note to self: skip matt's book. he's a huge whore after meeting his h.
October 1, 2016
Link to full review below! I have so, so much love for this book!!! Seriously, its heartbreakingly real and beautiful! See full review on The Book Disciple
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