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A hero barely holding on…

Harrison Conrad returned to Scarlet Springs from Nepal, the sole survivor of a freak accident on Mt. Everest. Shattered and grieving for his friends, he vows never to climb again and retreats into a bottle of whiskey—until Kenzie Morgan shows up at his door with a tiny puppy asking for his help. He’s the last person in the world she should ask to foster this little furball. He’s barely capable of managing his own life right now, let alone caring for a helpless, adorable, fluffy puppy. But Conrad has always had a thing for Kenzie with her bright smile and sweet curves. One look into her pleading blue eyes, and he can’t say no.

The woman who won’t let him fall…

Kenzie Morgan’s life went to the dogs years ago. A successful search dog trainer and kennel owner, she gets her fill of adventure volunteering for the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team. The only thing missing from her busy life is love. It’s not easy finding Mr. Right in a small mountain town, especially when she’s unwilling to date climbers. She long ago swore never again to fall for a guy who might one day leave her for a rock. When Conrad returns from a climbing trip haunted by the catastrophe that killed his best friend, Kenzie can see he’s hurting and wants to help. She just might have the perfect way to bring him back to the world of the living. But friendship quickly turns into something more—and now she’s risking her heart to heal his.

335 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 27, 2018

243 people are currently reading
455 people want to read

About the author

Pamela Clare

56 books4,315 followers
USA Today best-selling author Pamela Clare began her writing career as a columnist and investigative reporter and eventually became the first woman editor-in-chief of two different newspapers. Along the way, she and her team won numerous state and national honors, including the First Amendment Award and the National Journalism Award for Public Service. In 2011, she was honored by the Colorado Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists with their Keeper of the Flame Lifetime Achievement Award for her work. A single mother with two grown sons and two cats, she writes historical romance and contemporary romantic suspense within view of Colorado’s beautiful Rocky Mountains. She is a two-time RITA finalist (Surrender, Defiant) and a three-time Daphne du Maurier finalist (I-Team series). She loves history, having studied archaeology in college, and has traveled extensively, living for almost three years in Denmark, which feels like home to her. She attributes her love of historical romance with the years she spent visiting ruins and castles in Europe.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
Profile Image for Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession.
1,225 reviews3,711 followers
October 1, 2018
5 Puppy love Stars



I love the Colorado High Country Series. Each book has been a hit for me. Holding On was a great addition to the series. I have been waiting for Harrison Conrad's book for a while now. I knew going into this read that Harrison had some major issues to deal with after losing his climbing team in an accident and almost dying himself. Pamela Clare did a great job of writing Harrison and his pain in a believable light. My heart broke for Harrison. He felt so guilty for surviving and he suffered with PTSD. Enter Kenzie and her adorable puppy Gabby! OMG talk about cuteness overload. Kenzie was a member of the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team as the K9 SAR unit. She knew how therapeutic animals could be. Crushing on Harrison for years, Kenzie came up with a plan to ask Harrison to foster SAR trainee puppy Gabby. What ensued was some of the cutest puppy antics I have ever read!



Harrison and Kenzie were both amazing and they made a cute couple. Different in a lot of ways they complemented each other well. They were both very protective of one another and the dogs. They were both supportive of each other and had a friendship along with being in love with each other. Harrison was very sexy and charming. I loved how hard he fell in love with Gabby. Nothing like a man cuddling a baby human or animal to make a woman's ovaries explode. Kenzie was smart, and sassy. She had a confidences about her that made her very sexy as well. I felt Harrison and Kenzie has a great connection. Smexy time between Harrison and Kenzie was smokin' hot. When Harrison role played Kenzie's fantasy I totally melted.



I love that even though they made a great couple they still had to deal with PTSD in a real way. Healing isn't always easy or pretty and I love when Authors keep it real when it comes to things like PTSD. I loved getting to catch up with past couples and seeing how they are doing in their HEA. Lots of babies to awe over. There was some raw emotional and sweet moments in this book. There was some really funny ones too(Harrison naked outside his older neighbor catching him and calling his junk franks and beans). The action towards the end had me on edge and I was so happy that Harrison was able to overcome his problems and saved the day. The epilogue was amazing and gave me everything I wanted. I loved this book and I can't wait to get my hands on the next one!



https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
Profile Image for Auntee.
1,358 reviews1,480 followers
July 2, 2018
What can I say? This is getting to be a habit with this series but I loved it. Truly.

Pamela Clare just has a way of not only bringing her characters to life, but making you feel like you know them, that you feel their pain, and makes you want to root for them. She gives you plenty of little details, provides significant back stories, and manages to teach you something new (the lady does her research) in each book.

There's no crazy plot twists or unusual characters (well, maybe Harrison's next door neighbor who saw his 'Franks and beans' , just some down home good storytelling. PC makes even the mundane day to day activities seem interesting. How does she do this? Of course there is the expected heat between the characters (and ohhh, that one scene where they act out Kenzie's fantasies...:o)
So this was a fairly simple, straightforward romance, with a little bit of some needed suspense at the end. I say 'needed' because the hero was really doubting himself, and this bit of suspense went a long way towards him finding himself and making him trust himself again.

Anyway, I really enjoyed it. I loved the characters--dog trainer/kennel owner Kenzie, and alpine climber (alpinist?) Harrison Conrad (okay, confession: this name of his gave me a little bit of fits. Sometimes PC would refer to him as 'Conrad'--his last name, while Kenzie almost always called him 'Harrison'--his first name. At one point I got a little bit confused about which was his first name and which was his last (lol), but eventually I caught on!)

So the book blurb spells it out pretty well for you about what to expect. But I'll add my 2 cents...

Kenzie and Harrison were friends for years, both volunteering on Scarlet Spring's Search and Rescue team. Kenzie trains SAR rescue dogs (her wonderful dog Gizmo is a major character in the book). Harrison travels the world climbing huge mountains (like Mt. Everest) and makes his living this way. (who knew it could be so lucrative?) Anyway, after a horrible accident where he lost his best friend and barely survived himself, he finally comes home to his base in Scarlet Springs, Colorado. Kenzie is worried about him because he has become a recluse. He's all guilted out by what happened to his friends. He's clearly suffering from PTSD, but doesn't want to talk about what happened. He just wants to forget. Kenzie wants to help him but doesn't know how...until she uses her brand new puppy Gizmo as a way to reach him.

Now, Kenzie has vowed never to get involved with a 'climber' again. She's had boyfriends in the past who were climbers and they always left her. Kenzie has no interest in mountain sports. She's a homebody at heart, not an adventurous soul like Harrison. On paper these two don't work. But how can you deny chemistry...?

I loved everybody in this story! I admired Kenzie (she turned out to be a badass), I felt bad for Harrison/Conrad and what he went through, and I loved them together. And my god, those dogs? Gizmo, Gabby, even Snickerdoodle and Prince! All wonderful additions to the story.
I loved catching up with the rest of the 'team' (even though I might have forgotten a few of their stories...). But it doesn't matter--this can be read as a stand alone, or even out of order like I did at first.:)

All in all, a great addition to what is becoming a favorite series for me.
5 stars

My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Jonetta.
2,620 reviews1,341 followers
July 10, 2018
Harrison Conrad is a world-renowned alpinist and superior athlete, having reached Everest’s summit twice. On his last attempt with his long-time climbing partner and best friend, he was the lone survivor following a freak accident that killed his friend and the two climbers they were taking up the mountain. After 15-months in recluse with Tibetan monks, he finally returns home to Scarlet Springs, still broken spiritually and not knowing what’s next for him and avoiding those who cared for him. Kenzie Morgan, the town’s expert trainer of search and rescue dogs, has more than admired Harrison, who’s also a member of the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team. She comes up with a plan to place her new puppy, Gabby, in his home for a little fur therapy.

This was a wonderful story! Harrison’s issues were so very real and his gradual retraction from everyone important to him was painful to experience. Kenzie’s instincts about the power of her puppy were on target and it was heartwarming to see Gabby’s impact on Harrison, to watch him slowly emerge from survivor’s guilt to something closer to acceptance. Kenzie and Harrison’s own relationship blossomed out of friendship and mutual attraction, as well as through their shared admiration and love for the dogs. An added bonus was the education about the intricate training required for service dogs as it was enlightening. And, I learned quite a bit about extreme climbing, including how endorsements actually are contracted and orchestrated.

I love this series and its focus on community, a staple in every story and definitely in this one. It was extraordinary how the town wrapped themselves around Harrison to protect him from his adoring fans and the media, giving him a chance to heal emotionally. The search and rescue training and alpine research was outstanding, lending an authenticity to the core story. Lastly, the romance was well developed (and steamy!) and I wasn’t ready for this book to end.

(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
Profile Image for Anita.
2,677 reviews224 followers
July 4, 2018
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.

How do you overcome survivor's guilt? Good question that is a central theme of this book. Another question that played a big part is What makes a hero? The heavy themes were front and center in this very sweet romance with a touch of suspense. Since I prefer my romance on the lite side, it's hard for me to fully embrace this one, but the series has been great and not shy tackling some weighty subjects. I love all the characters and their different paths to their HEAs.

A force of nature changed world renowned climber Harrison Conrad's life in a split second. He survived Mt. Everest, but his climbing team didn't. Learning to accept and move on is almost impossible for him. Isolating himself from his friends back home in Scarlet Springs, CO isn't the answer. But, Harrison has some awesome friends who just won't let him wallow in his grief. Megs flies across the would to retrieve him and Kenzie Morgan gives him a reason to face each new day in the form is a sweet, adorable, furball, puppy named Gabby.

Kenzie Morgan has sworn of men who live for the adrenaline high of extreme sports. Been there, done that and she has the scars to prove it. She is not going to get involved with another one, ever, ever again. Famous last words. She just seems drawn to them and her attraction to Harrison is a far gone conclusion. When he returns home broken in spirit and vowing never to climb again, she thinks . . . maybe, just maybe this attraction will turn out different. Her life is her kennel and dog training business. She also volunteers for the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team. Now, she is on a mission to help Harrison be whole again, but keeping her heart safe just doesn't seem possible.
Profile Image for Claire.
2,325 reviews740 followers
July 2, 2018
5 - "In my heart... you never left." Stars!






I feel like I say this about every new book I read by this author, but I absolutely loved Harrison and Kenzie’s story. I have to say the inclusion of two K9 characters in Veteran Gizmo and Puppy Gabby also added to the awww’s and feel’s massively, but it was the story itself that kept me gripped.

If there had ever been a woman who tempted him to settle down…

Harrison has been a running character as well as Kenzie in the previous books but whereas she’s been present in the town of Scarlett Springs he has mainly been off climbing the great mountains of the world. The latest being Everest, with his best friend of twenty years and two up and comers in the world of climbing. But all does not go to plan, and he is left questioning his place in the world and what the plan is for his life going forwards, crippled with survivors guilt and a form of PTSD, Harrison returns home, and starts the long process of healing himself mentally and emotionally, and not without the help of Kenzie and her K9 companions.

"I don’t want to drag you into my mess it wouldn’t be fair to you…"

Kenzie and the town in general are just glad to have him back, but it is clear by his reluctance to get out and get involved in life and with his friends of the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team that the fifteen months spent in a monastery near Everest have not helped exorcise the demons he is still fighting or the grief that is still consuming him, and Kenzie has the idea of pushing him to puppy-foster Gabby in an effort to give him something else to focus on. But it’s not just the puppy that he finds himself focusing on and the long held attraction between them sparks into flame.

"I don’t think I’d be good for you…"

"How about this Kiss me whenever you want, and we’ll take it a day at a time…"


Every book in this series has pulled me into the story playing out with the characters on an emotional level, and Holding On was no different. It’s difficult to not be really when you have Harrison; a strong, confident, self-sufficient man almost bought to his knees buy circumstances totally outside of his control.

"Stay…"

"I promise."


I loved Kenzie too, a woman in love with a man who is hurting, and it’s not a hurt she can take away all on her own. But it’s Harrison who has to make the decision as to where his future lies, and Kenzie fears that she may not be part of that future if he doesn’t accept the fact that he cannot work through his issues alone.

"You’re the only part of my life that makes sense right now… I want you, and if that’s a mistake, ten it’s the best mistake I’ve made in a long damned time."

Another out-and-out winner from the Colorado High Country series, and I absolutely cannot wait for more from this author in the future.

ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.


Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,024 reviews805 followers
July 8, 2018
I've been really impressed by this series. Some books I like more than others but overall I think the author has done a fantastic job of bringing more to the story. You're not getting a simple love story.

In Holding On we have a hero who is a world class climber. He's climbed Mt. Everest twice and has done work on his home town's SAR (Search and Rescue) team. We also have a heroine who does work with the SAR team along with her dog Gizmo who has SAR and HRD (Human Remains Detection) training.

Reading about Kenzie's work with Gizmo was pretty exciting as was Conrad's climbing experience. I was just as fascinated about the careers of our two main characters as I was about their love story. One didn't override the other. We got a great amount of time with Conrad and Kenzie as they grew close together as we did with their work.

This was a really great feel good story that had some pretty awesome side characters. A lot of the side characters are main characters in previous books. If you follow the series, you get to know them well. You can also read each book as a standalone if you don't want to commit to a whole series.

ARC provided by NetGalley.

Profile Image for Sawyer  ❤.
225 reviews31 followers
November 14, 2018
Oh my goodness, this book was a treat! I'd barely even made my way through the prologue when I decided this book deserved 5 stars. When I read reviews of fantasy novels, people often talk about world building. The prologue takes place on Mount Everest, an environment as foreign to me as most fictional worlds. Through the perfect combination of words and immaculate descriptions, I was right there with Conrad and his climbing buddies. Read More

Profile Image for Dali.
2,092 reviews593 followers
August 1, 2018
Pamela Clare continues her Colorado High Country series crafting an emotional, exciting, sweet and sexy tale of the world’s best alpinist and the woman who conquered his heart.

When Harrison Conrad arrives in Scarlet Springs after a tragic accident on Mt. Everest where he was the only survivor, Kenzie Morgan is equally happy and concerned to see him. He’s alive, but he’s also devastated, without a purpose and barely functioning. Until Kenzie shows up at his doorstep with an adorable puppy asking him to foster her. If it were anyone else asking the favor, he would’ve refused. However, it’s impossible for him to say no to her.
“If there had ever been a woman who tempted him to settle down…”

Kenzie has a successful career, she loves her job as a dog trainer and relishes her work with the Rocky Mountain Search and Rescue Team as part of the K9 unit. The only thing missing is love of the human variety. She’s had a thing for Harrison for a long time but sure she’s not his type. At least she can be there for him as a friend and help him in his heartache. Except he does like her and soon friendship grows to a deeper and more intimate connection.

Holding On is full of Pamela Clare’s best staples, charming secondary characters from an equally enchanting small town, a smart and determined heroine and equally attractive hero, a touching and exciting plot and toe-curling love scenes. Gizmo and Gabby, Kenzie’s dogs, added a cuteness factor to the story and the returning characters, with their growing family was delightful for series fans.

The story moves at a wonderful pace, letting un both enjoy the romance between Harrison and Kenzie, feel Harrison go through his grief and crackles in its search and rescue moments. The novel and series is based on actual mountain rescue volunteer work which makes for a fascinating backdrop. Another wonderful addition to Clare’s canon.

Holding On is book #6 of the Colorado high Country series by Pamela Clare. It is charming, sexy, emotional and exciting contemporary romance told from both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2Lit8z8

* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *

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Profile Image for Pat.
1,377 reviews41 followers
June 29, 2018
A tragic accident on a climb to Mount Everest leaves Conrad Harrison, World Class Mountain climber, in a spiral of depression and survivors guilt. After spending fifteen months in a Buddhist Monastery his friend and Team Leader from Scarlet Springs convinces him it’s time to go home. He vows to never climb again. But a beautiful woman and a fluffy dog named Gabby refuse to let him hide. A beautiful contemporary romance that will warm your heart and raise your heartbeat a bit!
Full review to follow on http://www.tbqsbookpalace.com on July 12th.
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,220 reviews74 followers
July 1, 2018
I read this book in one sitting it was that good! I thought the information about rescue dogs was well done. And fur babies Gabby and Gizmo were too cute and so smart! The romance between Kenzie and Harrison was sweet with a side of sexy and I loved revisiting the characters of Scarlet Springs!

Full to the brim with heartbreak, love, and learning to overcome loss and survivor’s guilt, Holding On was a great entry to the Colorado High Country Series!
Profile Image for Big Joe  Rossi.
1,776 reviews49 followers
May 27, 2019
4.5⭐

Harrison Conrad is a world famous climber and part of the rescue team, Or he was. After a horrible accident in the mountains that saw him loser his best friend and 2 others. Now he is back home and in hiding.

Kenzie Morgan is an amazing dog trainer, kennel owner and she has crushed on Harrison for a while. She feels lost not being able to help and then she has an idea. A dog can give someone the love and drive to move forward. So she concocts a plan, says her new dogs is too rough and will he dog sit him for a while. He reluctantly agrees. Soon he is bonding with the dog AND her. Feelings develop. Lines blurred. Lust and love growing.

The dog is the perfect Rx for him. Slowly he is pulling out of his darkness, finding the light. Slowly he reintegrates himself with his friends but when Kenzie walks into a troubling situation and is taken he will have to do everything he can not to lose her.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
August 1, 2018


4.5 stars

Holding On is a powerful installment in the Colorado High Country Novel. Harrison and Kenzie have known each other for quite a while, Kenzie is unable to act of her actions before tragedy strikes Harrison and thrust him into a self imposed prison. Only as Megs could, Harrison was dragged home to start the healing process, not ready to heal his friends decided to push the subject and Kenzie sprung into action. As a trained SAR and HRD dog trainer Kenzie knows the healing power dogs can provide. Gabby was able to provided things for Harrison he didn’t know he needed.

Kenzie works hard to help anyone, and will go the extra mile for dogs. She never knew that she and Gizmo would be threatened with death unless they helped find someone. A very passionate person, Kenzie is able to express her feelings to Harrison and and hope it will turn into more than just a fling. She herself is unsure of Harrison mental state and continuously worries about him.

Harrison is slowly, cautiously reentering life in Scarlett Springs, hiding away only provide to make things more difficult for him. Becoming part of the life in small town has become more and more trying for Harrison to hide the blossoming relationship between himself and Kenzie. Facing his demons head on, he learns how to honor the memory of those involved in the tragedy.

The chemistry between Kenzie and Harrison is so intense, readers can sense it from the moment they meet in the store. The couple had many internal battles to fight before they truly started to heal and look towards the future. Ms. Clare’s novels are so packed with twist and turns within the plot, its hard to describe the novel without spoiling it! Its easy to see the research has been done, the author has taken her time to make this as true as it can be. I love how she involves former couples/characters but does it in such a way that it feels like a welcoming home party each time you read about them. I fall more in love with Scarlett Springs and Bear with each novel, I hope to hear more about them soon!
Profile Image for maggieandteddy.
1,236 reviews146 followers
July 5, 2018
Fantastic !
I've been reading each of this series' books as they come out. I'm obsessed. I've never really been to Colorado. I feel like I have through these books.
This is book 6. I do think that this could be a standalone. I did enjoy the supporting characters in this book.
I do love Megs. She's in charge of the Search and Rescue team. She's a tough but wise person. She's older than the others on the S&R team. I love how she comes through for Harrison at least 2 crucial times.

I really love the H & h i this book. I love ALL of the Hs & hs in this series.
Kenzie is not a climber, but she is on the support staff for S&R. She has a kennel that boards dogs, she teaches dog/owner behavioral classes. She also gets called ("toned out") paged for rescues and sadly, for deceased body recoveries. Kenzie's trained rescue do Gizmo is very sweet and smart. Kenzie is an true expert in handling her dog. She does get another dog- a golden retriever puppy named Gabby

Harrison's story starts this book. He's a world famous mountain climber. A very tragic event is explained in the prologue. This part is very well done, but is chilling and heartbreaking to read. Harrison is devastated. He eventually comes back to Scarlet Springs. Harrison and Kenzie have a history of sparks/chemistry, but had previously never pursued a relationship.

Kenzie cooks up a story for Harrison to foster her puppy Gabby. He's caught off guard, but agrees, so he can help out Kenzie. This actually helps Harrison get out of his own shell-a little. He's still closed off & grieving.
There are some funny moments and sweet and also romantic times too. Kenzie and Harrison are hot together.
There's suspenseful and scary parts. The Colorado Rockies are beautiful, but the weather starts to turn The terrain is tough. The last 1/3 or so was intense.

I loved the time that Kenzie & Harrison spent together. Kenzie was patient and sweet. Harrison had to come to grips with what happened. He was a reluctant celebrity.
This is 3rd person POV. I'm so happy that I read this book
I give this one 5 days. How can I not?
I received an ARC through NetGalley. Thank you!
Profile Image for Kame.
802 reviews39 followers
July 1, 2018
Contemporary Romance fans
Do you love Marie Force's Gansett Island
or Robyn Carr's Virgin River
or any of the great quirky towns Jill Shalvis writes?

If you answered yes to any of those, you need to visit Scarlett Springs!

Harrison Conrad is not sure how to carry on after he is the only one of his climbing team to survive an accident on Everest. Kenzie knows animals can help heal people and she is determined to help Harrison heal.

It has everything all the great contemporary small town romance serieshave - a great town, continunity from one book to the next, quirky characters you can love, and some hot romance. It also has a little adventure, some heart string pulling moments and PUPPIES!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Five Star Read!

Another artfully crafted title by Pamela Clare. Pamela Clare is the standard I gauge a new to me author to.
Profile Image for Laz the Sailor.
1,815 reviews81 followers
July 14, 2018
Another delightful entry into the Scarlet Springs series. This is a tight story about two people who should have figured it out a long time ago. PC definitely knows how to describe the mountains and climbing, and she knows how to write romance and erotic scenes very well. The constraints of the series limit the plot-lines a bit, but this one has its own twists.

Oh, and puppies!

While most of the story focuses on the main couple, the rest of the Team and town-folk are still there. For me, this became a burden, as there were several small scenes where there were 20+ names people saying "Hi".

While not the strongest story in the series, it is still an enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,512 reviews86 followers
August 9, 2018
ARC received for review

I have really enjoyed every book in this series. Each hero and heroine has a unique set of circumstances to overcome, and they do it with a little help from their friends.

This book is no different. Kenzie has like Harrison for a long time, but never said anything. He comes back broken after a climbing tragedy. With a little help from a puppy named Gabby and a bad guy hurting Kenzie, Harrison overcomes. There's lots of sweet and sexy times plus seeing all the previous peeps.

I'm sad I'm caught up and now will have to patiently wait for the next one.....is it out yet


How bout now?
Profile Image for lisa.
2,108 reviews303 followers
July 2, 2018
Shoutout to Jae for gifting me this book, a true MVP, she never leaves a woman behind-

I miss this universe. Truthfully I didn't remember Conrad or Kenzie but I skimmed the previous books for them and saw the little moment they had in Book 1 and like, "Aha! They belong together!".

Grief is always hard to read; Conrad was in a bad place at the start of this book, having survived the avalanche that killed the rest of his climbing team. I love that Meg traveled to Nepal to drag his ass home, and Kenzie got into action and gave him Gabby the puppy to foster so that he has something to do with his time. Conrad and Kenzie were so great together, and seeing Conrad training and playing with Gabby nearly killed me; I love dogs in books. I'm so glad to be reunited with the rest of the S&R Team. I haven't reread the previous books in a while and I might do it this month. Moretti cracked me up each time, I miss him.

So ready to get my world blown up again when Pamela releases the I-Team/Scarlet Springs crossover book next! I'm ready to ride the emotional rollercoaster again.
Profile Image for Heather.
1,435 reviews26 followers
July 3, 2018
While this is the sixth book in this series, it can easily be read as a stand alone novel. Those familiar with the series will recognize names from previous books but truly this book can stand on its own but will most likely have readers wanting to read the other books in the series. Harrison Conrad is a world famous mountain climber that has experienced a tragedy that even after fifteen moths is severely impacting his life. Suffering from survivor's guilt, Harrison simply can't find a meaning to his life now that he is back home. At least not until he is manipulated into caring for a puppy and rejoining the land of the living. Well a new love interest might have helped too.
This was a very enjoyable story by Pamela Clare that not only had a great plot but also showed just how much research the author has done in respect to climbing and search and rescue teams. With each book in the series I always find myself surprised by the research she must put into the stories without getting so technical as to detract from the overall romantic story.
Profile Image for RachelW (BamaGal).
746 reviews77 followers
June 30, 2018
Another good read in a solid series; and it was great to catch up with the S&R gang. CHC in general is more CR than the solid RS of I-Team; and this one was a little on the sweeter, angsty side. The suspense of the story didn’t show up until late in the book. That’s okay. The tight writing, solid character driven plotline and enjoyable romance made up for the lack of suspense.

As always, Clare’s meticulous research into Search and Rescue, as well as the K9 Rescue Unit, was well done. Her enthusiasm for Colorado and S & R is obvious; and translates lovingly to the page. I especially enjoyed the personal touch of including the training of Kenzie’s K9 dogs; as well as the other dogs in her kennel.
9 reviews
June 30, 2018
"Holding On" by Pamela Clare takes us home to the scenic town of Scartlet Springs. Conrad and Kenzie take us on an emotional journey through traumatic events but prove that love, compassion and trust can help you climb any mountain. Sometimes it just takes opening up to a good friend, falling into the embrace of a lover or cuddling with a furry companion to show you that you're not alone. Beautifully Written... 5 STARS
Profile Image for Sharon.
507 reviews317 followers
August 26, 2018
Deeply emotional. This book is about survivor’s guilt and the process of healing.

I love Harrison and Kenzie. It’s a solid relationship and I find it amazing how much they’re there for each other. It’s just really sweet and I love the progression of their relationship. By the end, I’m just feeling super content.

Also, all the dogs in this book, aw, the cuteness never ends.

I am in particular hoping to see books for Winona, Sasha, Deputy Julia Marcs, and Esri. These are all badass women, and it’s shown even as side characters. Winona and Esri with their physical and mental healing capabilities, Sasha for her badass climbing skills, and Deputy Marcs as a deputy. I’ll say Esri is the star of this book as a supporting character, and I love how she is so respectful and understanding towards people’s pain. I mean it makes sense because she is a therapist, but her approach is a wonderful thing. I hope she gets her own book, seriously.

3.5 stars

Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
Profile Image for G.K. Brady.
Author 21 books369 followers
June 29, 2025
I think this is my favorite book in this series so far. The wrap-up at the end felt a little rushed, but overall, I enjoyed the story, the characters, and Harrison/Conrad's struggles. On to the next one!
Profile Image for Alison.
3,709 reviews146 followers
July 5, 2018
Three and a half stars.

Harrison Conrad was the golden boy climber of the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team, a mountain rescue team in Colorado. Then a tragedy claims the lives of his best friend and two young climbers in the Himalayas and he is wracked with survivor's guilt, spending over a year living in a Tibetan monastery until Megs, the founder of the Team comes to haul him back to Colorado.

Kenzie Morgan is a dog trainer, owns a pet shop and is the owner/ handler of a Search and Rescue dog. She has always had a thing for Conrad but knows her weakness is climbers, she doesn't share their obsession and they always leave her. But when Conrad comes back so lost and broken she can't help but want to fix him - and what could be better than a cute puppy? Conrad has always had a thing for Kenzie too, but both being part of the Team has necessitated him keeping a professional distance, now he's resigned is there anything stopping him?

I find this a difficult book to rate. First, way too much sex to plot in my opinion, I spent a long part of this book wondering if anything was going to happen, don't get me wrong it was well done and hawt but enough already. Second, puppies! That warrants at least five stars all by itself. Third, I did like the plot, when it finally arrived. It was tense and thrilling and had me on the edge of my seat. But I have to wonder if that area is cursed - it seems like every criminal from miles around gravitates there! Also, I felt a bit of deja vu - haven't we had this plot before?

But I liked Conrad and Kenzie. They had issues, they worked them out. They were fun and I would love to be their friend and sit back for a beer, or two, at Knockers the local watering hole chatting with them and petting their gorgeous dogs.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for ⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm.
2,345 reviews17 followers
July 28, 2018
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!

I had to play catch up before reading this installment in the series, as there were two books I had missed prior to this one. I have to admit one of those other books was better than this one!

Harrison Conrad was always this "mythical" character for me, as I couldn't see him coming back to Scarlet Springs anytime soon. Then Megs had to go and stir him up, LOL! He's got the tortured hero part down pat, and with good reason. This has him occasionally suffering from having his head up his rectum syndrome, but by the end of the book he has recovered from that issue. I really loved seeing him grow as a character! I liked Kenzie on the whole and thought she was a good fit for Harrison. I was especially interested in how she trained her dogs for the SAR work, but was disappointed at the overall lack of detail in the story about that.

Overall, this was an engaging and entertaining read for me and I can't wait to see what's in store for the rest of the series!
Profile Image for Pamela(AllHoney).
2,719 reviews376 followers
August 15, 2025
The sixth book in the Colorado High Country series by Pamela Clare. Harrison Conrad survives a tragedy that takes his best friend's live. Still dealing with survivor's guilt, he returns to Scarlett Springs, trying to decide what to do next. Kenzie Morgan is a dog trainer and also trains dogs for SAR. She has had a thing for Harrison for years and in an attempt to help him she brings a pup for Harrison to foster.

This is a wonderful series. Pamela Clare writes great books that keep me glued to the pages. She is one of those authors that I automatically purchase their work without a second thought. She has a true talent in storytelling and I pray she is around for a long time.
Profile Image for Morgan | Mashleas Reads.
260 reviews6 followers
July 8, 2018
Holding On was a fantastic, easy to read and swoon worthy romance with some seriously amazing characters. I've read most books in this series and loved them, and this book was no exception. I really found the two main characters, Harrison and Kenzie, to be really interesting and genuine. I felt that even though this book was quick and easy to read, I connected with the characters and understood their emotions and motivations. Often in a romance book it's over too quickly and I didn't feel like I understood the characters at all. This is not the case with Holding On. It's enjoyable, steamy but also truthful, with barely any tropes/cringing involved. Even though I am not an adventure/outdoors type myself, I love this series as it has some really genuine and hot characters. Not many romance stories detail search and rescue scenarios and I think that adds to the overall appeal for me.

Harrison was hot, older and had his own inner demons. Watching him learn to love himself, to forgive himself and love Kenzie was great to read. There were certainly ups and down to their relationship, but its such an enjoyable book it leaves a smile on your face. As usual there is a pinch of drama/danger but I love that and it gives the book something to focus on other than pure romance. All the other characters from other books and all the side characters are back and its so good to read and have them consistently throughout each book of this series.

If you are looking for a wonderful, very easy to read romance thats steamy with a little bit of drama and danger, this is certainly for you. I would also highly recommend Pamela Clare's other books.

Thanks to Pamela Clare and NetGalley for my advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I voluntarily read this book for review.
Profile Image for Cindy.
2,351 reviews172 followers
July 1, 2018
Holding On gives us great scenic descriptions of Everest and many mountain peaks in Colorado along with an inside look at the training of search and rescue dogs from puppy stage to adult dog stage.

A man still grieving over a year after the loss of his friends on a summit to Everest that turned tragic and the search and rescue dog trainer and kennel owner who plays dirty and uses a cute puppy to force him out of his self imposed exile. Touching story full of a range of emotions with a great cast of characters both new and all the previous ones we've come to love..

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Profile Image for Angie.
798 reviews
October 27, 2018
Harrison made me hurt for him from the beginning. He was in so much pain. But Kenzie was smart enough to know what he needed and bring him back. I loved them together so much... and the dogs!
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