My Heart to Hold

Maxwell Family Saga #2

by S.B. Alexander

Boys fall in love with what they see.

QUINN THOMPSON

I never believed a boy would like me. When I’m around Maiken, I feel like I can conquer the world. He gives me the confidence to stand up to my enemy. I vowed to Tessa Stevens that she would see a new me. But people don’t change overnight. I’m still the same girl she knew before Christmas break. I still live on a farm, stutter when I’m nervous, spit out random facts, and avoid confrontation. I’m not the type to punch first and ask questions later. But when she lays her paws on Maiken, all bets are off.

MAIKEN MAXWELL

Since my dad died, I can’t seem to get my act together. I’m failing two classes. I’m suspended from basketball, and Chase Stevens makes playing the game difficult for the entire team, but none of that matters when my family is faced with yet another tragedy. My only lifeline is the girl with butterscotch hair, amber eyes, and quirky personality. The one whose flirty smiles and shy looks are only reserved for me. The girl who has a way of picking me up when I feel like I want to run and hide. The problem is I might not get the chance to see Quinn ever again when my mom has no choice but to move a thousand miles away.

Reading Order My Heart to Touch My Heart to Hold Scroll up and grab a copy today.

Genres: Young Adult

177 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2019

About the author

Navy veteran and bestselling author S.B. Alexander writes paranormal, new adult, and young adult romance. Her writing is emotional, angsty, and character-driven, and features hot heroes stealing hearts.

S.B. or Susan as she likes to be called is a navy veteran, former high school teacher, and former corporate sales executive. She’s a lover of sports, especially baseball, although nowadays you can find her on the golf course.

When she’s not writing, she’s a full-time caregiver to her soul mate of twenty-two years who got a bad deal in life when he was diagnosed with ALS. Her motto: “Life is too short to waste. So live every moment like it’s your last.”

Reviews

[Paula White · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was gifted an ARC for an honest review.

Quinn and Maiken were great together - stayed strong against all the high school drama. Maiken has been through a lot and still keeps getting knocks but he is strong and is always there for his family. The Maxwells are great and all support each other. This book did have HS drama and the typical bully but it looks like the tide is turning. I look forward to reading more about Quinn and Maiken.

[Shedevilreads Bookstagram · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Heart To Hold by S.B. Alexander is a sweet young adult romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Heather Downey and Parker Douglass. This is the second book in the A Maxwell Family Saga series.

This is the second book of S.B. Alexander's that I have read and it definitely won't be my last. I am loving the relationship between Quinn and Maiken. I really enjoyed that we got both of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.

I can't wait for the next book in the series My Heart To Give to be released on audio so I can get more of Quinn and Maiken's story.

Heather and Parker did an amazing job on the narration. Their voices were perfect for Quinn and Maiken. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the near future.

I would recommend this book to any one who loves coming of age, young adult, or sweet romances.


Audiobook Obsession Reviewer

[Dana McKee NOLA504NERDS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Pink Flamingo Productions for gifting me this ALC in exchange for an honest review. Quinn and Maiken are so incredibly sweet. We started their story in My Heart to Touch, which should be read before this one. Quinn and Maiken deal with high school life, bullies, and family issues while developing their own relationship. I loved watching these two characters grow. S.B. Alexander wrote a great young adult romance that’s easy to follow and relate to. All the characters are very likeable. You’ll have a hard time putting this audiobook down!

Heather Downer and Mark Sanderlin were perfectly cast for this story. The pacing, pitch, timing, and tone were spot on. They both embraced their characters and made this an easy and enjoyable listen. I highly recommend the audio version of this book.

5 Sweet Stars!
NOLA504NERDS BLOG

[Astrid Rudloff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily review an ARC.
This is the second book of the Maxwell family series, the books should be read in order.
As always reading this book I felt like I'd be within the story being a part of the Maxwell family. I just love them all, especially Quinn and Maiken. There are so many tense, tragic, but also happy moments, the reader isn't able to put this well written book down.
It's a great clean YA romance, where family comes first and lots of support helps everyone to overcome hard times.
I absolutely recommend this book like every I've read by this author.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Maiken and Quinn continues in My Heart to Hold. You should read My Heart to Touch before reading this one. Fans of the original Maxwell books will also see Kade and Lacey more in this book, which was a treat as well. I loved every minute of this book and it was hard to put it down to go to work. Quinn and Maiken are still dealing with bullies, school, family issues and trying to navigate their new relationship. Everything they go through is very relatable. It is well written to draw you into the story and make you wish you had the next book as soon as you hit the last page.

[Secretly Adorkable Readers · Rating 5 out of 5]

More of Quinn and Maiken in this sweet YA romance series from one of my favorite authors! Maiken is hanging on by a thread when his family is hit by another tragedy and while he is trying to get his grades up but fails, gets suspended from his team and also has to deal with Chase who happens to have the same eyes on his girl. The only thing keeps himself going is his girlfriend Quinn. I cannot get enough of this series and need more!

[Kori Dicken · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great installment of the Maxwell Family! Maiken and Quinn make such a cute high school couple. But with high school also comes drama! Throw in that high school drama with some added in family drama and it makes For a great story!

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Heart to Hold
By S. B. Alexander
Main Characters: Maiken and Quinn
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
This is the 2nd contemporary romance about Maiken and Quinn and there will be two more yet to come. Young Maiken has a lot of stuff going on in his life. His father passed away and his Aunt has stage 4 cancer with his mom staying down in Georgia to be with her and all his brothers and sisters to worry about along with his low grades in a couple of classes and trying to do his best in basketball so hopefully, a scout might notice him. That is a lot of pressure for someone so young. But he has the help of Quinn, Kade, and Lacey. Maiken was brought up by good parents to end up being such a kind caring teen. Quinn and Maiken make a wonderful teenage couple. It's like watching all the teen drama we used to see in high school. Then there is Tessa the cheerleader bully. Quinn is shy and when she gets nervous she stutters and issues random facts. I think this is on the toned down side of what peer pressure teens go through today. A great young romance that we can read along with their progress. This is well written and Susan must have a great beta reader for I didn't find any of the usual errors that you expect to find in an ARC. Looking forward to the 3rd book in this series. You should read this.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite everything that Maiken is going through he is determined to honor his father and be there for his family. When his mother needs to be with her sister with the help of relatives he is trying to balance looking after his seven siblings, school and basketball while Quinn is the light in his life.

Quinn has deep feelings for Maiken as well as the angst that goes along with it. She is being bullied by Tessa, the popular cheerleader, who not only wants to make her life difficult but wants her boyfriend as well. Quinn knows that she has to be the better person even if that is difficult at times.

Quinn and Maiken are so good for each other as they support each other unquestionably despite everything they are going through. Their story is far from over and I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for them. I enjoyed the performance of both narrators as they bring out all the emotion and turmoil that teenagers feel.

[Sheila Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

S. B. Alexander has found her niche in writing young adult romance and this book further corroborates that opinion. My Heart to Hold continues to follow Maiken and Quinn, two sophomores in high school. Quinn is bullied by a popular cheerleader but is learning to stand up for herself while Maiken is faced with inner turmoil as he struggles in his role of oldest son. When his mother returns to Georgia to assist her sister during breast cancer treatments, Maiken assumes the burden of his brothers and sisters, relying on his aunt, uncle and cousin to help hold his family together.
There are the usual high school angsts that all teenagers face: insecurity, the emotional roller coaster, keeping up grades and participating in sports. This book is written well and has multidimensional characters that are both likeable and relatable.

[Alexis Quintana · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing the last book I was instantly counting down the days until this one released. I couldn't wait to see where they would pick up. I loved seeing Maiken and Quinn continue to grow both individually and together. Maiken is faced with a lot to handle at a young age and I love seeing how grateful he is for the guidance he has and that he wants to be the best he can be for not only himself but those around him who look up to him and need him. I love seeing the insight Kade and Lacey have to give to him seeing as they faced their own challenges as teens. As for Quinn I felt I could relate even more to her in this book as we see what she faces for wanting to be with Maiken. Without giving to much away just one click it and start reading and you'll be right there with me waiting for book 3 to hit shelves.!!!!!

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in A MAXWELL FAMILY SAGA written by S.B. Alexander. I am glad I continued on reading/listening as I enjoyed it much more than book one. The brothers were not as prominent or ugly in this one. Maiken and Quinn continued to grow their relationship as well as navigate through circumstances at school and in life in general. I really like Maiken and Quinn. They just seem to be much more mature than kids their age typically act. There are several heart touching scenes. I look forward to the next audiobook.

Heather Downer & Mark Sanderlin are really perfect for this book. They have such young sounding voices. There performance was well done once again.

*I received an ALC of this audiobook and this is my voluntary and honest review.

#AudiobookObsessionReviewer
#PinkFlamingoProductions

[Tasha Mahoney · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Heart To Hold is a well written young adult story. S. B. Alexander has penned an emotional tale that has a nice blend of angst, romance and family. I would strongly advise reading the first book in this series My Heart To Touch prior to reading this one as My Heart To Hold follows on from that story. This would work as a standalone

The Maxwell family are going through a lot, and the story while told through the eyes of Maiken and Quinn, tells the broader plot and seamlessly combines all of the different, complex aspects of this emotive story.

I am giving nothing away here because there are a lot of different, and important layers. I will say that I really enjoyed My Heart To Hold and it really managed to tug at my heart strings.

The narration was clear, crisp and each character was well represented by both Heather Downey and Parker Douglas

[Heather Carver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book!!! It was a great second installment to this series! I love Maiken and Quinn!! I cannot wait to read the rest of their story!!!


Maiken has a lot going on for a teenager. With the death of his dad and now what happens in this book (I can’t tell you what!) It breaks my heart he doesn’t just get to be a kid. But I love how much he cares about his family! He has a heart of gold!! I’d love to see him get to be a teenager more in the next book and not have to struggle with being a ‘dad’.

I loved Quinn in this book. She’s growing so much. She is starting to come out of her shell. I cannot wait to watch her grow more in the next book!!

I loved seeing more of Kade and Lacey!!! I really love watching Lacey connect with the newest Maxwell kids!

[Anima · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect romance for everyone, young teens included. Quinn and Maiken's story continues through their sophomore year of high school. Tessa and Quinn are trying to settle differences. Maiken and his family are dealing with some personal family issues. It's a tough year for them, especially as teenagers new to dating and feelings. Alexander gives them real problems, working them as maturely as possible and keeping their love innocent. When my ten year old is ready to read about romance instead of fairies I will get this for her. Fabulous read with plenty of feelings, something to learn and a little excitement. Read the first book for character history and backstory, more to come. My copy came early through the author, review was voluntarily written.

[Kbsblogging and reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cant express enough how much i love this
Author. Susan did not disappoint with this book. I loved maiken and quinn in the first book. Maiken is still suffering from the loss
Of his father and is now faced with another tragedy with is aunt denise. He is trying to hold everything and everyone in his family together.
Quinn is still shy girl. She is still a target for being bullied by the mean and popular girls one
In particular tessa she is a bitch.
I loved every minute of this book i couldnt put it down. It also had me crying.
I highly recommend this book you won't be disappointed.
Thanks susan for another amazing book cant wait for the next one.

[Bksbloggingandreviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

I cant express enough how much i love this
Author. Susan did not disappoint with this book. I loved maiken and quinn in the first book. Maiken is still suffering from the loss
Of his father and is now faced with another tragedy with is aunt denise. He is trying to hold everything and everyone in his family together.
Quinn is still shy girl. She is still a target for being bullied by the mean and popular girls one In particular tessa she is a bitch.
I loved every minute of this book i couldnt put it down. It also had me crying.
I highly recommend this book you won't be disappointed.
Thanks susan for another amazing book cant wait for the next one.

[Kathleen Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maiken and Quinn ...Loved it

Oh to be in high school again...LoL Book 2 to Maiken and Quinn story continues with more growing pains of teenage life and dealing with emotions from tradigity of death and health issues that upset ones family life. While another deals with issues from be bullied an how to put a permanent stop to it. In the mist of all that first love blossoms. Yes you'll need a box of tissues beside you! S. B. Alexander gives another excellent saga to sink into our favorite spot and get lost into another wonderful story with fabulous characters. Looking forward to the next book.

[Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot get enough of the Maiken and Quinn storyline. From the opening paragraphs to the last page the reader is taken back to high school with all the trials and tribulations of first love. Add in the drama of the cheerleader/bully Tessa and the lovable Maxwell family and you have the perfect read. But not everything is sunshine and rainbows and S.B. Alexander throws in the perfect amount of angst and family happenings that gives this book the right amount of sub-stories. I cannot wait for more in this series!!

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ask my kids, I NORMALLY do not read nor do I enjoy "sweet" romance books UNLESS it is an S.B. Alexander book and ESPECIALLY if it is a Maxwell Family book. I absolutely love anything Maxwell and Maiken and Quinn's story is the very best. I was left "wanting more" in Book 1 and Book 2 was definitely worth the wait. Do yourself a favor and if you have never read anything by S.B. Alexander or any of the Maxwell Books start "one clicking" because you will never regret doing that.

I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and totally voluntary review.

[Mary Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to jump back into this young adult story. Quinn and Maiken are now together and their feelings are developing fast. But they have their own issues. Like Maiken's family and his future. Also Quinn is still dealing with a mean girl. She hoped her heart thawed over their winter break, but it's not the case. This is story full of teenage emotion and teenage issues. It took me back to being this age and dealing with crushes, friends, and the drama of high school. I just adore Maiken and Quinn. These narrators are the perfect voices for them. Get ready for a wild ride!

[Kenzie Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is another great by S. B. Alexander. It is the second book in the Maxwell Family Saga series and is junior high and high school friendly. The book takes you on a ride of the ups and downs that everyone faces being a sophomore in high school. There is love, drama, competition, and family. You even get more of Lacy, Kade, and even a peak at Kross from the original Maxwell series. The book keeps you engaged and wanting more!

[Ashley Gosvener Swafford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book by my favorite author! Quinn has come a long way and I can not wait to read how much more she progresses! Maiken is dealing with a lot but the way he handles everything is perfect! I love that Kade and Lacey are present in these books as well as the influence and help they have with the others. You can't help but get wrapped up in this book. Just as before I loved this book and can't wait for the next one!!

[Bonnie Blackledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read the first book in this series, I was excited to read the second book which continues the love story of Quinn and Maiken. This book shows real growth in both of the main characters and shows how they deal with the challenges they face. It was a quick read and kept my interest throughout. I’m looking forward to watching them mature in the next two books of this series.
My Heart to Hold is well written and well edited. It was a joy to read.

[Shelly Diguer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant loved 🥰it

I loved 💕 this book 📖 so much Miken and Quins sweet , innocent relationship is becoming more serious 😊 love makes the world go round , and people see things differently 🥰 Mikens life changes yet again and the Maxwells rally round as family is everything to them 😊 this is a great 2nd book 📖 and had me hooked from the first chapter ...👍🏻 can’t wait for the next instalment 👏🏻💖

[Jocelyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Maxwell Family Saga, a spin-off of the Maxwell Series. Quinn and Maiken's story continues where the first book left off. The storyline has angst, drama, and heartbreaking scenes. I like the family bonds in this story. This is a good continuation in Quinn and Maiken's journey. Heather Downey and Parker Douglass did a good job with the narration. #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlock #ALC

[Trisha c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maiken and Quinn's teen romance continues to grow. It's met with the usual teenage angst. School, grades, sports, bullying, insecurites. Maiken has family health tragedy that leaves him to take care of his siblings with the help from his extended family and the Maxwell's. I love how SB Alexander develops their young teen romance.
Heather Downey and Parker Douglas told this story with so much emotion. I felt all the anguish, love, and angst, of every character.
🎧audiobookobsessionreviewer🎧

[Crystal Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down! I love how I'm always drawn in to the story. I love how you make me feel like I'm right there living their story. I cannot wait for the rest of the story of Quinn and Maiken to play out and watch them grow as a a couple and as individuals!!!! Thank you Susan for another great couple to fall in love with!!

[April Duplanti · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! I'm so proud of the attitude the Maxwell family has and how they deal with the things that are thrown their way. Quinn is such a delight. You can't help but get wrapped up in their story and just keep turning page after page. I loved this book and can't wait for the next one in the series!

[Eva Christopherson · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars! Another wonderfully written volume of the Maxwell series. Maiken and Quinn are an adorable teenage couple trying to figure out life as teenagers in love, dealing with bullying and high school drama. Add in emotional family situations and it is a perfect recipe for an amazing story. I loved the book and look forward to the next installment.