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A man recovering from a toxic relationship and slowly healing. A woman recovering from a divorce and seeking a new life. When their worlds collide, will Garrett and Bertie finally heal and find their happily ever after?

Garrett MacAteer has rejoined his family and is trying to rebuild his life after escaping a toxic relationship that has left him scarred, vulnerable, and with nothing more than the clothes on his back and the strength of his hands.

After Bertie Shore's marriage descends into an unfulfilling placeholder in her life, she takes a big leap and finds a new direction and leaves to pursue her lifelong ambition of owning a bed-and-breakfast inn.

Neither is looking for a connection, but one night they find it. Can they survive the challenges they face long enough to accept new love, take it, and hold it close?

237 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2021

98 people are currently reading
40 people want to read

About the author

M.L. Nystrom

25 books418 followers
ML Nystrom had stories in her head since she was a child. All sorts of stories of fantasy, romance, mystery and anything else that captured her interest. A voracious reader, she’s spent many hours devouring books; therefore, she found it only fitting she should write a few herself!

ML has spent most of her life as a performing musician and band instrument repair technician, but that doesn’t mean she’s pigeon-holed into one mold. She’s been a university professor, belly dancer, craftsperson, soap maker, singer, rock band artist, jewelry maker, lifeguard, swim coach, and whatever else she felt like exploring. As one of her students said to her once, "Life’s too short to ignore the opportunities." She has no intention of ever stopping... so welcome to her story world. She hopes you enjoy it!

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5 stars
165 (61%)
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83 (30%)
3 stars
20 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Alex(Books-In-A-Storm).
2,703 reviews72 followers
July 23, 2021
I just loved this one. The Macateer brothers are amazing.
Garrett and Bertie both have had bad past relationships. But they found what they needed in each other. True love.
I can't wait to see what's in store for the other set of twins.
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,412 reviews13 followers
February 20, 2021
So when Garrett and Bertie meet they have just gotten out of relationships that were painful in different ways. It leads them to one night - no names, no expectations and no commitment. Which would have been fine, expect Garrett is helping his brother renovate Bertie's Bed and Breakfast.

Bertie's divorce was amicable as both had grown apart...or so she thought. She took the opportunity to refresh her life and start over, leaving a job that sucked up all her energy and time to run a bed and breakfast. She is fortunate that she has money to enable her to do this. Having a one night stand with Garrett is not something that she would usually do but finding out something about her ex gave her the incentive.

Garrett's relationship that ended was a toxic one. She spent her time either drunk, sleeping around or spending all of his money and when he challenged her she would get abusive. When he finally realises that there is no hope, he heads to his brothers for a fresh start and finds Bertie.

When Garrett starts work at the B&B he doesn't feel worthy in his life. Bertie though manages to make him feel hopeful, valued and worthy. This was a lovely read with lots of elements thrown in the mix but it didn't feel busy or over whelming at all. There was suspense, sweetness, hotness, a cute dog, exes coming back into their lives and the MacAteer Brothers! This was another great addition to this series.

***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Profile Image for Karen_Lee_Reads.
1,325 reviews46 followers
January 15, 2021

Hold it Close
(MacAteer Brothers #3)
Written by – M. L. Nystrom

Bertie Shore woke up on Christmas morning with the feeling that she had made all the right decisions. Quitting her high paying, high stress investment banker job was the right thing to do. Getting a divorce from her ex Kent was the right thing to do, after all neither of them had truly participating in the marriage for a while. Buying an old farmhouse outside Ashville, North Carolina was the right thing to do! She had dreams of owning a Bed & Breakfast and now she had her chance. Her life was good, she was happy and she was spending Christmas Day with her sister and her family.

Garrett MacAteer’s Christmas Day did not contain any Joy. After spending the whole night out with another man, his (very loose fiancé) Joy flopped into their bed. It wasn’t long after that, Garrett made the decision to pack up his stuff, cancel his credit cards (which Joy had run up) and made an instant decision to head to his brothers place in North Carolina. He would figure it all out later.

However, New Year’s Eve, two lonely people end up at the same bar, one still getting used to her single status and one wondering how he could not have seen what his ex was like. It takes one terribly bad Karaoke/even worse dancer to bring Bertie Shore and Garrett MacAteer together. What happens in the storage room stays in the storage room.

M. L. Nystrom’s book three in the MacAteer Brothers series gives readers pretty much everything they ask for in a good book. This is a good book! We have two people who are still working on getting over their past relationships and then there is that mega sexual attraction between Bertie and Garrett. Although Bertie is ready to take the next step, Garrett is still recovering. Adding to that someone is following Bertie and no one is hearing the reader’s shout, “Watch out!”

At one point I put the book aside and had to think to myself why is that little grin on my face and I came to the conclusion that I was hearing little Irish voices when any of the MacAteer men where talking and I was engaged 100%.

Five Stars to M. L. Nystrom for a great read, you just gained a new reader!

Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.6k reviews96 followers
February 1, 2021
Bertie is at a crossroads in her life as she is feeling unfulfilled both personally and professionally. Her choices are to stay in a high stress yet high paying career and being married to a man legally but not emotionally. She chooses to give up the life she has created and follow her heart.

After Garrett realized that he was the only one invested in his relationship with his fiancé he decides changes need to made. He has returned to be close to his family and work in the family business as he tries to create a new future for himself while trying to heal from the past until one night changes everything.

This is a heartwarming story about love, family and second chances. Neither Bertie nor Garrett’s have had success when it came to romance in the past but if they are willing to open their hearts, they might just find out how special love can be with the right person.
Profile Image for Mary Fields.
10 reviews
February 1, 2021
Well written story

As usual, I read this book in one sitting. Characters and story kept me reading until the end. There are always backdrop themes within this writer's stories. This involved toxic relationships. Others addressed sexual abuse, substance abuse, rescue animals, overcoming losses of many kinds. Concise writing makes the stories flow. Love these series. Can't wait until I read about Patrick and Angus!!
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
3,104 reviews67 followers
January 21, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)

Gonna start with this is part of a series, read the previous stories before this as the characters are returning and it just flows better that way. We already knew going into this that Garrett, Owen's twin, was not in a good relationship, more like a very toxic one. So when this starts off the way it does, that didn't surprise me. The flow of this story was absolutely perfect! I loved that Garrett wasn't afraid to show his fears, and wanting to take it slow. While Bertie was a bit opposite and pretty much knew that she wanted Garrett and was going to take him any way she could get him. This was a great addition to the series, I can't wait to see what ML Nystrom has up her sleeve. I give Hold It Close 5 stars.
403 reviews
January 30, 2021
Great book

This is a wonderful addition to the series. Really fun read. One coming how and catching up with old friends. Loved it.
2,051 reviews8 followers
February 2, 2021
Wow, I absolutely loved this story. I couldn't put it down once I started.

I loved Garrett and Bertie together, they both been through so much. But I loved how they took their time with each other. They are perfect for each other.

I can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Jody.
2,091 reviews61 followers
February 2, 2021
From the very first page this book took on a cleansing vibe courtesy of a hero and heroine who decided it was time to leave unhappiness behind to find something more emotionally healthy and personally satisfying. Set in a small town, and focusing on the MacAteer Brothers, this book charmed me through its brotherly exchanges and realistic depiction of emotions that repeatedly pulled at my heartstrings. Heartfelt talks soon led to a sensuality that had me rooting for this couple every step of the way in a tale that was well worth the read!

Garrett MacAteer's a man who's been bruised by love, cheated on and betrayed by his fiancée. For far too long he stayed with her, letting her make a mockery of their engagement and letting his pride keep him tied to her. Eventually, any love that remained was snuffed out and saw him returning to the family fold and a support system he sorely missed. Garrett's a delicious hero, a good and honorable man hurt by someone proclaiming to love him while using him at the same time. Needless to say, he's ready for a fresh start, but he's not going to just jump right into his fresh start. He's leery this time around but can't deny the instant attraction he feels for the new girl in town, Bertie. Their connection is instant, crackling, and is both a sweet and sexy journey full of introspection and empowerment. Add in a bit of suspense courtesy of certain someone's wanting to taint their HEA and you end up with a fully fleshed-out romance that kept me fully immersed from start to finish.

Bernadette Shore was once at the top of the business world, making more money than she could ever possibly spend, and feeling less than satisfied with her life. Her marriage had been over for a long time, but it was finally time to formalize things and go after what she always wanted...to own a quaint B&B. Opening a B&B wasn't the only new facet to her life though...so too was meeting the sexy and serious Garrett. A memorable New Years soon binds these two together in a romance that played with my heartstrings and had me rooting them on through every emotional high and low. Bertie's an immensely appealing heroine, one who knows exactly what she wants and isn't afraid to go after it. She understands Garrett's fears, the damage to his trust and his heart, and is willing to go slow with him in a romance that warmed my heart while making it race a time or two.

This was a story that flowed beautifully, kept me engaged and cheering this couple on through every roadblock thrown their way. Their romance was both sweet and sensual, allowed to grow and be nurtured slowly in a journey that was oh so satisfying. The MacAteer Brothers were a delightful part of this story too as each brother left an indelible mark on my heart. The brothers are a strong support to each other, playful in their banter, with interactions that put a smile on my face. Though this book is part of a series it stands strongly on its own with a romance that thoroughly entertained me. Readers looking for a set of brothers to make every dream come true though will definitely want to read the previous installments for even more fodder for sweet dreams as we wait for what Ms. Nystrom has planned next!
Profile Image for DebbieReadsBooks.
2,814 reviews52 followers
February 11, 2021
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 3 in the MacAteer Brothers series, and while it's not NECESSARY to read books one, Run With It, and book 2, Ready For It, I personally think you should. It will give you a better feel for these guys, and how they work as a family, and how hard they fall! And, you know, I SAID SO!

Because this series gets better and better with each book, with each brother. Connor was a lot of fun; Owen was dark and brooding; but Garrett is. . broken.

On Christmas Day, Garrett walked out on his relationship, after finally realising that she was killing him; both emotionally and financially. He couldn't take the love/hate thing they had going on anymore. Shipping himself off to stay with Connorto heal, he never expected to fall hard and fast for lady who hires them to renovate her farmhouse into a B&B. Bertie had walked from her marriage when she realised that there wasn't anything there anymore. She needed a clean break, so she packs up and buys the dilapidated farmhouse, moving closer to her sister. And lets just say, there are SPARKS when Garrett meets Bertie! But neither wants a relationship. Can they really work together?

Garrett, I think, is the sweetest of the three brothers we met so far (and although Angus and Patrick turn up here, we don't really get much of them) and I just wanted to wrap him up and look after him, you know?? His ex, she was a nasty piece of work, she really was and she did a number on him that I felt deep in my bones. Going home to his brothers was the only place he needed to be. Connor and Owen were happy to see him, of course, but they were worried that it took time for Garrett to tell his story. I mean we get, in all its gory detail, but the brothers don't get the FULL story till Garrett tells it.

And Bertie?? While she walked for entirely different reasons to Garrett, she is still broken, and needs time to heal. The farmhouse helps, as does being close to her sister. The same sister who tried to fix Bertie up with Owen! (all is forgiven on that front, by the way!)

This one, I think, because of Bertie and Garrett's history, is the most emotionally draining book of the three. It's hard reading, Garrett mostly, and I would recommend you find the time to read the whole book in one go. I did, at stoopid o'clock in the morning, but it's such a brilliant read!

I also think ( in my 'umble opinion) that this is the smexiest of the three. I think because there is a very early connection, and the fact that they fight that connection, when they give in?? Fan yourself, cos it's hawt off the charts!

I did NOT get who was doing what they were doing, not at all. I did NOT see that one coming, so well played there! And Funky Tom from the pub?? That turned a corner I didn't see coming either!

Like I said, we meet the younger set of twins here, identical twins; Patrick and Angus. Given what has been said about these two before, and that they have seperate books, I'm intrigued how those books will play out!

I'm loving this series, but I think Garret and Bertie are my favourite couple so far!

5 full and shiny and so freaking hawt stars!

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
3,444 reviews20 followers
January 29, 2021
Garrett & Bertie

Another winner in the MacAteer Brothers' series. Garrett was a hardworking construction worker. He'd learned how to do it all in a family company even though he'd left because he wasn't allowed to use those skills. Now he's back, working with his brothers. He's back with his clothes, his truck, his tools, and ruined finances. His ex-fiance cleaned him out. But he was going to make a new life.

She decided living was more important than continuing in the financial business and earning more money than she'd ever spend at the cost of her heath. Her marriage had long since been over she just needed to go through the formalities. Now--she'd live her dream--a bed and breakfast made to her specifications and the MacAteer brothers were just the ones to make it come true.

Neither of them planned to add romance to their new lives. Would they learn that the so-called best-laid plans might not always be what they thought?

The story is filled with family, friends, dreams, and love. Characters old and new are real people joining together professionally and personally. Yet any real-life story has interference. There are those who aren't happy the couple is finding happiness in a new life. Will they be able to break them apart?

One of my favorite things about this book is that the conflict could not be solved by merely discussing it. They share their problems and fears building on their love and commitment. Love, plenty of steam, humor, loyalty, and friendship make for another unforgettable read.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On.
Profile Image for Kathy.
2,613 reviews43 followers
February 1, 2021
This is the third book in this series. I think they should be read in order. This series is a spin-off of the Dragon Runners MC series by ML Nystrom. The MacAteer brothers are all coming back together one by one. Garrett has been put through the ringer by his ex. He thought they would be together forever and she just wanted him for the things he could provide. Bertie divorced from her ex about a year ago and has been working on making her dreams of owning a B&B come true ever since. The two meet drunkenly on New Years Eve. Then again when he shows up with Owen to work on her B&B. Two seem to have an instant connection. But they both might not be in the right place to start something new. Garrett is so worried about being hurt again. Bertie is already moving on with her life could she be ready to move on in this part of her life as well. They not only have to contend with if they are ready to move on or not. Someone is out to hurt Bertie. Will they be able to figure out who wants to hurt her before its to late? I am loving this series more with each book. The MacAteer brothers are fantastic. They give their all for each other and those they love. Bertie fits right in with the other ladies and brings so much to the plate. I can’t wait for Angus and Patrick’s book. I would also love to read more Dragon Runners books as well. Another fantastic book ML Nystrom.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews186 followers
February 5, 2021
Garrett is a man who has been in a toxic relationship for too long, and finally he's had enough & is now trying to rebuild his life after his ex almost completely destroyed him. Now he's close to his brother again, and the healing starts. Bertie has had a very successful career, but her marriage is dead so she decides to give everything up to make her dream of having a B&B a reality for a fresh start. This is how she comes across Garrett's path, but neither are looking for any sort of connection with the opposite sex. However, fate is stirring things up as they do end up feeling a connection but it's not going to be easy. It will take a lot to get them to open their hearts again since neither have had any luck in the relationship area of their lives. So, buckle up because it's going to be a bumpy ride as we watch these two navigate something they never saw coming! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL! 
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,314 reviews54 followers
February 6, 2021
4.5 Stars
This is the third book in the series and it just made me fall in love with this series all over again. I've been looking forward to Garrett's story. He's leaving a very toxic relationship and it makes it all the more beautiful for what he has with Bertie. Bertie is starting a fresh start as well. Those MacAteer brothers make me swoon with each book and Garrett is no different. He has a sensitive soul that Bertie's treats with care he deserves. They have great chemistry, but you can feel the happiness just rolling off these two. It made my heart happy. Though it's not all sunshine and roses because someone has it out for Bertie. Those are some keep me on the edge of my seat moments. Another great book in the series! I can't wait for the next brother to fall.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
707 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2021
3.5 stars - Good but the ending needs work

I recently read the Dragon Runners series and had a problem with the outside the relationship sexual content in most of those books. But, I liked them enough otherwise to start on this spinoff series. So far, I've really liked each book and don't recall any OM/OW stuff. I have one complaint. The ending sentences are awful. The books are all so far safe, HEA books with great and unique stories, which can be difficult. Though there are happy endings, which I need, the last sentences are either abrupt or just don't sound like they belong as the last line and I am a sucker for great last lines in books. It would have been a solid 4 at least if the ending sounded right.
2,969 reviews3 followers
February 12, 2022
Garrett and Bernie

I so enjoy this story of the romance between Garrett and Bernie. Both had breakups to get over. One due to boredom and one due an I’ll fated match. Those MacAteer brothers are handsome, loyal and fiercely family men. Their significant others are very lucky. Lots of action happened. A car was forced off the road and a car totaled, then a replacement vehicle was badly vandalized, a gunfight, a baby, two ex partners reappear and one is crazed. So enjoyed this book. Can’t wait to read book 4.
HEA, no cheating, no cliffhanger. Enjoy.
Profile Image for Ivy Blacke.
Author 23 books24 followers
November 14, 2022
Sweet story

Garret tried to make it work. His fiance was crazy. Mood swings. Constant overspending. He was so far in debt he didn't see a way out. She was unfaithful and he needed out.

Bertie just mutually divorced her husband. They fell out of live, or so she thought. Turns out her ex had a secret affair. But what's done is done.

New year's eve, two lost souls found the other half of themselves, now all they had to do was figure it out.

Great read.
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
5,067 reviews65 followers
February 2, 2021
This is the third installment of this wonderful series and it follows the relationship of Garrett and Bertie. They both are at a crossroads relationship wise, Bertie is married but her husband is not emotionally involved while Garrett realizes he’s the only one invested in his relationship with his fiancé. Neither of them has had success with past relationships but together can they get over that emotional hurdle? Are they willing to give love a chance?
Profile Image for Pamela.
4,227 reviews35 followers
April 15, 2021
Garrett is just out of a toxic relationship and reuniting with his family when he meets Bertie. Bertie is recovering from her divorce and owns a bed and breakfast inn. Two people with painful past relationships that are trying to heal and move on with their lives. Can the couple accomplish their goals together? Lovely read.
Profile Image for Ana Armstrong.
1,612 reviews
July 20, 2021
Loved it 💖💖💖

These MacAteer boys are all turning out to be the standard for book boyfriends. This 3rd book of the series features Garrett and Bertie. I really loved how these to evolve together and that there was no drama with their relationship. All the drama is from outside forces. Seriously sweet couple. LOVED IT!!!
2,543 reviews28 followers
February 2, 2021
Garrett and Bertie

Absolutely loved the third book in the Macaterr bros series. Garrett and Bertie are absolutely perfect for one another, and I love seiing all the old characters from your previous books. A five star read always!!
106 reviews
February 6, 2021
Hold it close

Just gotta say there is no at to not love all these Irish brothers and the women they fall in love with. This is just another example of how much family really means when family is the backbone to this whole clan!
20 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2021
Rooting for Garrett & Bertie

I liked that this story didn’t follow a typical beginning and definitely had some twists I didn’t expect. I also loved that I got to see more of the other MacAteer brothers
Profile Image for Maria .
2,504 reviews23 followers
October 31, 2021
Just wow!

Garrett and Bertie's story was definitely a winner in my book! Loved all of the brothers, but really wanted more of Eva and Stud. Even some dialog between Stud and all of his brother-in-laws.
21 reviews
January 30, 2021
This is a great book

I have been following this author for a while. Great storyline and characters. Everyday people in everyday jobs and lives. Super books!
Profile Image for Crystal LoCicero.
1,061 reviews4 followers
January 31, 2021
Quick sweet read

I loved the couple in this story. This wS a fun, quick, sweet read with just a bit of drama. I will continue to read this series
Profile Image for Fran Zoch, LSoR.
2,144 reviews13 followers
February 2, 2021
Loved it!!
Bertie and Garrett are so good together, they heal the hurt the other has gone through and makes the other so much stronger!!
I loved this and so did not want it to end
Profile Image for Gina Marie.
1,783 reviews9 followers
November 25, 2021
Garrett & Bertie

I really enjoyed this addition to the MacAteer Brothers Series. Garrett and Bertie were absolutely perfect for each other. Excited for the next book.
191 reviews
January 9, 2022
Winner!

I totally enjoyed reading this book. Great romance with drama and steamy sex! Can't go wrong with this combination!! Can't wait to start the next book in this series!
Profile Image for crystal smith.
708 reviews2 followers
February 21, 2022
Awesome

Great story loved it ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ready for next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews