For years, she maintained her composure and played the role of dutiful wife as her husband lied and cheated with more women than he could count. Now, Janie is fed up and ready to call it quits, but he wants to hold on. As secrets are revealed, Janie realizes her husband’s double life may just cost her own. The last thing Malcolm thought he’d be doing during his vacation was harboring Janie to keep her alive. He needed a break from his job as a U.S. Marshal, but once she’s under his roof, rest is the last thing he’s getting. She’s smart, beautiful and in trouble? Can he keep his distance long enough to figure who’s after her?
I'm just a girl in love with literature. My love affair with romance novels started with I was 13 and has flourished into an obsession. I've always been a writer. Even when I was a little girl, I always had a pen and a notebook poised to let something out. You Make Me Better is my first project that will be published and I am STOKED. My goal is to write stories surrounding positive black love, with a little humor tossed in.
Mine to Hold wasn't nearly as good as I expected it to be. It wasn’t terrible but, it just didn’t have that oomph like books one and two. But, I will say, Janie totally redeemed herself from the weak woman she was portrayed as early on in the series. There was a lot more insight into her marriage with DeAndre and why she chose to put up with his constant cheating. This book was more so about Janie than Malcolm. We get to see her grow and evolve into a much stronger woman. Janie's confidence really shined in this book. She's the quieter between her a Junie but, don't let that fool you. Her mouth is just a reckless. Whew chile, she read Mona for filth! My ears are still ringing from that verbal assault she put on her! Malcolm was walking perfection. He and Janie were an adorable couple. Mr. US Marshal Goodbody showed her how a real man treats his woman. I absolutely love how they professed their feeling for each other. That was the cutest scene. The suspense was just okay for me in this book. There wasn't a good balance of humor and mystery like the first two books. Even the identity of Bez was rather anticlimactic. That reveal had me scratching my head. I'm a little shocked that Junie didn't get a story considering considering she had two possible love interests she was torn between and we don't know who she chose or if she even chose one of them. I'm team Gavin by the way. It would've been nice for her to get a story. While not as awesome as books one and two, Mine to Hold was still a decent read. I enjoyed both families and all their antics that kept me laughing throughout the series. I hate to see it come to an end.
This was my least favorite out of this series. Janie and Malcom didn't seem very compatible. Like I didn't feel a connection between them. They also didn't interact enough. This one had potential to be my favorite, but it kinda fell short. Tho the story wasn't terrible, it was just missing something imo. Overall, this series was super enjoyable and of course baby Laiyah stole the show. 4.0⭐️
Three books in and I haven’t guessed the killers/stalkers once 😭
This was a good wrap-up to the Mine Series! I was hoping Janie would get a story and she and Malcolm were so good. Close Proximity really did them in! Janie’s soon-to-be ex-husband really set her up in more ways than one and not all good either! The journey of his debtors going after Janie and her hiding out with Malcolm at his and Toya’s cabin was where this close proximity love begins! Malcolm and Janie both aren’t looking for anything serious, at least that’s what they're saying but the chemistry is different. Janie was a fun heroine although I felt her frustration of constantly being in hiding. I also enjoyed her bossing up on people because she seemed so timid in Book 2! We did get some clarity on Toya and mini updates on Jaylen and Noelle. I didn’t guess the killer/killers again lol and just think the life of a detective isn’t for me but good for reading! I enjoyed this book!
Malcolm and Janie were pushed together by circumstances, but Malcolm low-key had been peeping before all of that. Malcolm is the fine loyal friend to Jayson and Jaylen and twin brother to Toya. He is a US Marshall that spends most of his days on the road. At this time in his life he desires to be more settled. Janie's situation allows him that time while helping and looking after her. They started off as friends, but the trust and connection between them just led to more and neither were complaining. Janie was Junie's sister and Mellina's cousin. She was the more passive sister, but she could definitely hold her own. She was a school teacher and wife to a former sports star. I felt like although this was her story, we didn't truly get to know her. Why did she feel compelled to stay in a loveless marriage. Obviously there was the money factor, but she didn't come across as a gold digger. She worked her day job and came home. I felt like there was a missed opportunity to connect her more with the readers. The story was action packed. There were some twist and turns I didn't expect and the ending was definitely surprising. It will definitely keep you engaged.
I feel like there is still room to close some story lines out..Mellina and Jayson's marriage. Junie needs her own book, because let's face it she's giving main character energy in the past two books. Also does Toya stay on the straight path? One more book is needed.
All Janie needed was peace and chile Deandre was not shit and left a mess. I feel like he should have just paid the money and all of this could have been avoided. Honestly didn’t feel a connection to Janie and Malcolm idk something was missing. Plus everyone seemed to calm about this situation cause Deandre knows he’s wrong.
These last few books haven’t left me with that euphoric feeling the majority of her books have. It wasn’t terrible, it just didn’t have that oomph. I didn’t feel the connection between Malcolm and Janie. Nothing like Mellina and Jayson. I don’t recall any flirting or even a hint they were feeling each other. Just out the blue “I want you.” After that declaration, I was hoping the chemistry would be palpable. Nope, just a little fizz. Hopefully Junie’s story will be turnt up! Also y’all is spelled wrong in every single book. There are other grammatical issues, but my eye twitched every time I saw it. And I just couldn’t hold back any longer.
I love a great romance mixed with some danger. I just loved reading more about this tight nit group. And like always Ashley Nicole had people looking at me crazy for literally laughing my a** off so loud. Looking forward to reading about Juniper and who she finally chooses.
This book was so good, I couldn't put it down. Loved Janie's strength and Malcolm's protectiveness. Didn't want the story to end but loved the ending. Ashley, keep doing your thing!!!
Wow!!! I loved Janie and Malcolm. This was a great book. Full of suspense. I would have never thought..... I loved the suspense and Junie is a straight fool. We have to have a book with her and Gavin. 5 stars for this one!
I am going through something rough in my life and this book was an escape when I needed it. I love this family and all their antics that kept me laughing throughout. Great job Ashley!
Girl you did your thing with this book. I was scared and nervous not knowing who was after Janie smh lol. But I can't wait to read what you write next! Great job 😀
I didn't think I would like Janie's story, yet I really enjoyed it. Malcolm had a sweet spot near my heart due to the mess his twin sister did, so I was glad he was getting his story too.
Janie is crazy strong, mentally and physically, so when all the things started popping off, I wasn't surprised by her overall strength. She endured years of her husband, DeAndre, cheating and mistreating her so I knew she was strong. I love that her and her sister Junie were on good terms in this book. I know it hurt Janie each time Junie would make a remark about her marriage, so I'm glad they were finally over that hurdle.
I figured Janie would separate herself from Malcolm, given the situation that had them in such close confinements, yet I guess you can only run away from strong attraction and chemistry for so long. I'm glad Janie read Malcolm's ex, Mona, for filth bc she was way too comfortable in a situation that she wasn't even wanted.
Malcolm was such a sweetheart. He didn't think twice when Janie needed a place to stay to get away from the people trying to kill her. I mean he is a US Marshal and Police officer. I think if any place was safe for her, it was definitely wherever he was. And he ensured she was safe. He also ensured her inner parts were rearranged in the best way too😏. I love that these two were open about they're situation and moved accordingly. I hope we get an update on them or they pop up in a future book.
I was hoping we'd get more on Junie. Maybe she has a book and I just hadn't come across it yet. We shall see.
The whole situation with Janie's mother-in-law was so bizarre. She only wanted her son, Deandres', money which was sad bc he loved his mom and took care of her regardless of how she treated him.
Laiyah is just growing up and is by far the best character in this series. That little spicy thing is so fun and cute. I love the relationship she has with her dad Jayson; he talks to her like she understands and he understands her; hilarious.
This didn't seem like the end of this series, yet it was a great story. Great read. Highly recommend.
After book two, I was hoping to get Malcolm's book. My fingers were crossed. What a wonderful surprise to see that not only did we get his book, but he was paired with Janie. A happy surprise that I didn't see that coming.
I really enjoyed this book, though I wish we got a bit more time with Janie and Malcolm and their burgeoning romance.
Mine to Hold picks up from Mine to Have, book 2 in the series. In that book, we learned a lot about Janie, including the fact that she was planning to divorce her philandering husband. Malcolm, a US Marshal, Jayson's best friend, who was also in the first two books, steps in to help when Janie's life is threatened. The mystery of who is behind the threat to her life remains a mystery throughout the book.
This book is chalk full of little gems: the ever present and spirited Laiyah, the strong willed and comical Junie, two puppies named Bay-bee, well written action, restaurant humor, the conclusion of the situation with Toya (Malcolm's twin sister who was a major part of book 1, Mine to Keep), and the budding romance of Janie and Malcolm. As previously stated, I would've enjoyed spending much more time with the romance of our main characters, because I enjoyed all of their scenes together (which is why I gave four stars instead of five). I would still recommend this book and look forward to Junie's book.
This book said finale and meant it. Just know you need to be locked in from page one. The tension never lets up, the danger feels real and every chapter dares you to blink. Janie’s growth across this series comes full circle here in the most satisfying way. If you thought she was quiet, passive or easy to overlook this book will correct you swiftly. She stood ten toes down and gave exactly what needed to be given.
The suspense was relentless. Every time I thought things might slow down it cranked right back up. I loved how connected everyone remained because it made the stakes feel higher. You’re never just following one story you’re inside a whole ecosystem of love, loyalty, and ride or die energy. Laiyah continues to run the world at one year old, Junie’s humor is perfectly placed and the family dynamic is the glue that holds everything together.
Malcolm y'all listen he's calm, dangerous, protective and very aware of who he is. His presence alone changes the temperature of every room he walks into. That’s all I’m gonna say. 👀 you feel the BDE poking through the pages!
I’m genuinely sad this series is over but what a way to end it. Strong characters, tight suspense, real emotion and a payoff that makes the entire journey worth it. If you’ve been riding with this series, brace yourself. It goes out swinging.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I have been in a reading slump and this week Ashley Nicole and a few others author's decide to pull me out of it. SO glad they did. I want to say that this is the end of the series but I think there is more in store for us. I HOPE AND BELIEVE IT'S MORE. Lol
Well if you have not guessed it already this book is about god-dee Malcolm and not so gullible Janie. If you read the last book in the series you would think that Janie was not so bright that the elevator went up but the doors doesn't open type of chic but Oh how was I wrong. I really liked her and she has spunk and she is not Junie but she is sharp at the tongue. I like Malcolm bur he was not my favorite of the three heros of the series sorry not sorry Jayson is bae. Janie's cheating soon to ex has put her in a pickle an she is going need a lot of help getting out of it. Well here comes the Calvary. Malcolm and the gang from the previous book are there to lend a hand and there is some surprises that I was not ready for but I thoroughly enjoy.
Overall this was a really good read at first I was hoping for more interactiond with Malcolm and Janie but when I think about I understand why there wasn't. Hopefully I am not wrong in my assumptions. Bravo Ashley Nicole Bravo
Now while I enjoyed this book, it really felt like Malcom & Janie were just forced together. Don't get me wrong, Janie deff surprised me. In the previous book, she just seemed like such a push over. I mean I was proud of her at the end of Mellina book, but she could have always changed her mind & went back to her husband. But she didn't & I was surprised by how much her & Junie were alike lol. While I liked Malcom, it's just like the chemistry wasn't there. I loved getting to check up on his sister from his perspective. She seemed to be in a much better headspace & I pray that after everything, she gets to talk with those who were effected the most by her decisions. I did enjoy his dialogue about potentially leaving the Marshalls & his desire to take care of the farm. But everything else about these two just fell flat. I honestly would have enjoyed a book about Junie trying to pick between Tobias & Gavin more while something potentially criminal was happening to her. While the romance was subpar, I really enjoyed the whodunit.
Of course Laiyah stole the show & I loved to see Janie & Junie get along. I wonder what ever happened to the baby the mama tried to pin on Dre & also whatever happened to her 🙄 she was doing the absolute most. I still enjoyed this read & as usual the banter was everything.
I don't know why for the life of me that reading about Layla's character intrigues me so much. That little girl that can't talk good just seems to bring everything together and balance to these families. This is a good read and possibly would have been a five star if there wasn't so much attention placed on the size and height of these women. I get it we all come in different shapes and sizes, but as a petite small woman I felt like the author is solely concentrating on big genetically enhanced or super tall women being more romantic, it's clearly the only female description given in the entire series. It was just hard for me to visual these big men tossing and carrying these giant women around there waist hiking them up to sex them when they as tall as them. It keep giving me a college coed football vibe which isn't sexy as a romantic vibe. There's absolutely nothing wrong with it but is the whole town tall women and men, no variety which isn't realistic.
Unfortunately, “Mine To Hold (Mine Series - Book 3)” I was underwhelmed! I didn’t care for this book. Yes, it was periodically entertaining and I attribute those moments to Junie’s dominate personality and normal comedic antics. Otherwise, this book was just an okay read. It didn’t meet the samer standards, character & or plot development as the previous two books of this series. Although book three had the opportunity and potential to deliver a concise ending to this “mine” series/trilogy, it didn’t ‼️And yet Janie demonstrated (or at least intimidated) she was no longer a doormat for DeAndre or Junie midway through book two. Likewise, Mr. US Marshall Goodbody aka Malcolm wanted substance over a convenient regular/on call side chick. Yet Malcolm was portrayed as an opportunist or disingenuous philanderer…and Janie was naïve, indecisive or insecure (while pining over a deceased deceitful adulterous spouse). WHAT 🤦🏾♀️🤨⁉️…I’m tired, underwhelmed with this third “mine” installment.
It was good, but a little long-winded. After a while, I was ready to get to the climax of the story so it could end. I never in a million years would've expected Janie of all people to have a storyline, let alone with Malcolm. That really surprised me. However, I have to say this about the author. I love that she develops friendships...or situationships, depending on how you look at it, with the main characters and not just throw them in a bed for the majority of the novel. NOW DON'T GET ME WRONG! I love a good lust filled novel, but AshleyNicole's writing is on regular everyday type of shit. Everybody doesn't jump head first into a relationship that ends with marriage and a baby. They take their time and go with the flow. This is what keeps me reading her books. It's more of a realistic approach than some happily ever after fairytale.
Janie has absolutely redeemed herself from the last book. In that one she was just sad.... But in Mine to Hold, she definitely held her spot! More importantly, we FINALLY got Malcolm's story!
I really enjoy this series and although Mine to Have was my favorite (it's actually my favorite book by AshleyNicole), this story holds its own. This story was really more about Janie than Malcolm, although we get some foresight into him, there still felt like it was more to uncover about the mysterious Malcolm. While we may have been craving more for Malcolm, Janie's footprint is ALL OVER this story, from her marriage, to her family, to her job, to her passion. And if you didn't give her enough credit, you should, she's smarter than she appeared.
I'm really hoping to get more from Malcolm if there so happens to be another book in this series. I enjoy these characters!
Malcolm and Janie did not expect to be a couple as she was still technically married to her cheating husband DeAndre. I was hoping the divorce would play out differently, but again she was screwed by her philandering husband. Junie cracks me up and I love her smart mouth. Her lack of 'filteritis' is such a treat. Junie, Mellina, Jayson and sweet Laiyah make the story so much fun. I love it the way everyone just treats Laiyah like the mess she is. The mystery with the who done it part of the story was well done. I did not figure out who the culprit was. In fact, I was shocked... Nice job Ashley Nicole...
I was wondering who these two would end up with, and was pleasantly surprised that they ended up together. Really good story. Had absolutely no idea who the mastermind was until the big reveal - love when that happens!
Really curious as to why the cute accomplice wasn't caught; does this mean we're gonna see him again? Also curious about Toya and if she's really okay. Like Jayson says in the book, her recovery seemed a little too clean. I do hope that it's real, though. Hope we get more updates on her in future books.
I love Janie and Malcom’s story. Although there wasn’t initially a connection, I love how their connection grew! I was on the fence about reading it since some of the reviews said that the relationship seemed a bit forced. I don’t feel that it was though, they never said they were in “love.” Although, the relationship happened during a grieving process, it still seemed organic. Sometimes it takes something traumatic to lead you to the life that you were always meant to have! I do feel, that the book is a little unfinished because they didn’t get everyone involved & there should be a part 2. However, great book!
Much like Mellina and Jayson’s story this one was filled with suspense. A high roller was out for blood and cash, and poor Janie was caught in the middle of it. Deandre pulling her into his mess was selfish, regardless of how much he “loved” her. His family was trash too. Messy for no reason other than selfishness and greed. Malcolm was sweet and was an all around good guy. I loved how direct both were with how they moved. I would have liked to see the relationship develop more too. Will we ever get a story on Junie? I feel like it’s only right, so I’ll definitely be looking for it.
First of all, I loved that Janie even got a story. She was more on the periphery in Mine to Hold so it was great to see her more fleshed out in this book. Janie deserved a good man like Malcolm, and Malcolm deserved a good woman like Janie who reveled in his strength. The underlying mystery behind the story had me jaw dropped every time someone new was revealed. Loved Laiyah as always and thank you for the follow up with Toya. This was a great book all around!!!
With the right amount of EVERYTHING. I have liked all the characters in the Mine series thus far and never thought Janie's (who I thought was so straight laced), story would be like THIS! Nor did I see Malcolm and Janie together. I so appreciate it though. Both are so adorable in their own rights so why not right? Cannot wait until the next installment, maybe Junie? Hint, hint. Won't really matter in the end anyway I know I will be reading.
Okay when is my girl Junie getting a book?! Anywho, as usual I enjoyed this read. It was good to see Malcom get his sister back. I enjoyed having Janie's grandmother embedded into the story a little more. Janie is my hero! She is one bad mama! Poor DeAndre, he just couldn't keep it in his pants, but I'm glad that he did right by Janie. His mama and sister...I wish Janie and Junie would've tag teamed them thirsty broads! My baby Laiyah was back at it with old lady self. I love her...she's so full of life! Again when is Junie getting a book!
It was so sad what happened to Dre and by two people who he really trusted. At least Dre showed Janie that he really did love her and put up safeguards to make sure that she was taken care of for the rest of her life. Malcolm opened up his home to Janie to hide out in but after spending so much time together they ended up opening up their hearts to each other. I'm glad that Toya is moving towards getting herself together and that Mellina and Jayson are still going strong. I can't wait to see what happens next with Junie, Tobias, and Gavin.