What do you think?
Rate this book
Legacy of the Maguires #3
Strictly Off Limits
This irresistible flirt would do anything to get his girl—but clearing his name could be out of his jurisdiction.
D.C. paramedic Hannah Paletti has just one problem: the ripped detective who’s starred in every romantic fantasy she’s ever had. Not only is longtime crush Conner Maguire her new partner on a community service project—he’s her brother’s sworn enemy. Hannah’s determined to raise enough funds for a community center to keep kids off the streets. And Conner, who denies betraying her brother, is all-in on her project. After one kiss, she can’t resist Conner anymore, and she doesn’t want to. But if her family finds out, she’ll lose more than just her heart.
Conner Maguire’s biggest problem has curves that make his hands itch, red curly hair, and enough sass to keep him hooked and booked forever. But to this day, he doesn’t know how her brother’s college sweetheart ended up in Conner’s bed, and he never cared to figure it out—until now.
Because choosing between family and love is tearing Hannah apart, so he needs to offer her both.
D.C. paramedic Hannah Paletti has just one problem: the ripped detective who’s starred in every romantic fantasy she’s ever had. Not only is longtime crush Conner Maguire her new partner on a community service project—he’s her brother’s sworn enemy. Hannah’s determined to raise enough funds for a community center to keep kids off the streets. And Conner, who denies betraying her brother, is all-in on her project. After one kiss, she can’t resist Conner anymore, and she doesn’t want to. But if her family finds out, she’ll lose more than just her heart.
Conner Maguire’s biggest problem has curves that make his hands itch, red curly hair, and enough sass to keep him hooked and booked forever. But to this day, he doesn’t know how her brother’s college sweetheart ended up in Conner’s bed, and he never cared to figure it out—until now.
Because choosing between family and love is tearing Hannah apart, so he needs to offer her both.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2023
124 people are currently reading
1401 people want to read
About the author
Stella Holt
13 books102 followersAuthor of your next binge-worthy contemporary romance series, featuring hot alpha heroes and the ambitious women they fall for.
Series Alert:
Small-town steamy in The Southern Hart Brothers series. Follow these four brothers as they uncover family secrets, and fight for love.
Big city swoon in The Legacy of the Maguires series featuring a family of siblings, and six steamy workplace romances.
Each book can be read as a standalone, but you won't want to miss one page of these heartwarming families, all the banter, and steamy romance.
Want to get to know Stella? Most days Stella can be found drinking too much coffee, collecting lipstick she forgets to wear, and baking. Connect with her on socials!
https://www.instagram.com/stellaholtb...
https://www.tiktok.com/@stellaholtbooks
Series Alert:
Small-town steamy in The Southern Hart Brothers series. Follow these four brothers as they uncover family secrets, and fight for love.
Big city swoon in The Legacy of the Maguires series featuring a family of siblings, and six steamy workplace romances.
Each book can be read as a standalone, but you won't want to miss one page of these heartwarming families, all the banter, and steamy romance.
Want to get to know Stella? Most days Stella can be found drinking too much coffee, collecting lipstick she forgets to wear, and baking. Connect with her on socials!
https://www.instagram.com/stellaholtb...
https://www.tiktok.com/@stellaholtbooks
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 26, 2023
I had never read this author before and this book is part of a series about siblings who work in Washington DC and serve the public. This book easily stands alone. It stars Connor and Hannah. He works for the cops and she works as a paramedic, she also has a brother who is very involved in this book, Parker and he works for the fire department.
Connor and Hannah met at age 10 when he became besties with her brother, Parker. In college they had a HUGE falling out (about 5 years before this book). They have never made up and the animosity is pretty high between Connor and Parker. But all three get paired for a fund raiser for a community center and so they have to work together somehow.
This is a wonderful second chance book though Connor and Hannah have never dated or kissed. But they both had feelings for each other when Parker started hating Connor. So before he couldn't be with Hannah because of the forbidden relationship with his besties lil sister and now that Parker HATES Connor its about Hannah betraying Parker and dating his enemy.
O loved this book so much. They both have HUGE crushes on each other but have never followed through until they are forced to work together on the fundraising. I loved this story so much. It was fun, sexy. filled with tension, and such a romantic story. It was a book I could not put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Connor and Hannah met at age 10 when he became besties with her brother, Parker. In college they had a HUGE falling out (about 5 years before this book). They have never made up and the animosity is pretty high between Connor and Parker. But all three get paired for a fund raiser for a community center and so they have to work together somehow.
This is a wonderful second chance book though Connor and Hannah have never dated or kissed. But they both had feelings for each other when Parker started hating Connor. So before he couldn't be with Hannah because of the forbidden relationship with his besties lil sister and now that Parker HATES Connor its about Hannah betraying Parker and dating his enemy.
O loved this book so much. They both have HUGE crushes on each other but have never followed through until they are forced to work together on the fundraising. I loved this story so much. It was fun, sexy. filled with tension, and such a romantic story. It was a book I could not put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 3, 2023
I devoured this book! I love the Maguires, and loved getting to know the Palettis in this book too. (Would love to see some Paletti books!!)
Connor & Hannah’s story was almost a second chance, brother’s best friend story… but with the falling out between Connor & Hannah’s brother, there was an added forbidden element that kept this one very interesting.
I love that from the very beginning, Connor comes out flirting and trying to ruffle Hannah’s feathers. Their back and forth was magnetic and I was totally rooting for them. Definitely some juicy ‘he falls first’ vibes in this one.
Hannah’s character development and struggle between family and love was well fleshed out. It felt realistic.
Excited I don’t have a long wait until the next book in the series!
Thank you to Stella and the folks at Tule publishing for the chance to review an advance copy.
Connor & Hannah’s story was almost a second chance, brother’s best friend story… but with the falling out between Connor & Hannah’s brother, there was an added forbidden element that kept this one very interesting.
I love that from the very beginning, Connor comes out flirting and trying to ruffle Hannah’s feathers. Their back and forth was magnetic and I was totally rooting for them. Definitely some juicy ‘he falls first’ vibes in this one.
Hannah’s character development and struggle between family and love was well fleshed out. It felt realistic.
Excited I don’t have a long wait until the next book in the series!
Thank you to Stella and the folks at Tule publishing for the chance to review an advance copy.
May 28, 2023
I’ve just finished Book three of Stella’s Legacy of the Maguires series and it is absolutely fantastic. Paramedic Hannah Paletti has had a crush on Conner Maguire for years, unfortunately the first obstacle to love was that he was her older brother Parker’s best friend. Now, years later Hannah and Connor reconnect after he was volunteered to help on a community project to raise funds for a community centre. Despite their growing attraction Hannah is determined to fight it because Connor and Parker had a massive falling out after Parker discovered his college girlfriend in bed with Connor. I loved this story and how it played out, the tragedy of two best friends town apart by a vindictive woman determined to destroy friendships. Connor was cheeky and loveable determined to win hannah over with patience, Hannah loves her family and is torn apart by the thought of losing her brother by choosing to follow her heart. I love the big families that rallied around both these characters and their sometimes emotional, sometimes entertaining interactions. I’m thoroughly impressed and enjoying this series so far and can’t wait for more. A big thank you to Tule publishing for sharing this story with me early.
June 8, 2023
A great addition to the Maguires series. It has a great storyline. It’s almost second chance romance. And it’s an ex-best friends little sister romance. I just loved the whole story line.
I freaking love Conner and Hannah!
Their character developments were great!
It’s got a little of everything in it. I highly recommend it!
I freaking love Conner and Hannah!
Their character developments were great!
It’s got a little of everything in it. I highly recommend it!
June 3, 2023
This is a amazing book!
January 4, 2025
Strictly Off Limits
A lovely sweet story about having to choose between family loyalty and love.
Hannah and Conor love each other but her brother Parker hates him
A lovely sweet story about having to choose between family loyalty and love.
Hannah and Conor love each other but her brother Parker hates him
May 9, 2023
I voluntarily read an advanced reader’s copy of this book for an honest opinion.
A great addition to the Legacy of the Maguires series. Stella Holt gives you a great storyline in Strickly Off Limits. Possible second chance at romance storyline, family issues from the past. The storyline kept me going back for more.
A great addition to the Legacy of the Maguires series. Stella Holt gives you a great storyline in Strickly Off Limits. Possible second chance at romance storyline, family issues from the past. The storyline kept me going back for more.
June 22, 2023
4.25stars--STRICTLY OFF LIMITS is the third instalment in Stella Holt’s contemporary, adult LEGACY OF THE MAGUIRES romance series focusing on the Maguire siblings. This is DC police detective, Sergeant Conner Maguire, and paramedic Hannah Paletti’s story line. STRICTLY OFF LIMITS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual omniscient third person perspective (Hannah and Conner) STRICTLY OFF LIMITS follows the rebuilding relationship and romance between DC police detective, Sergeant Conner Maguire, and paramedic Hannah Paletti. Years earlier, Conner Maguire was best friends with Hannah’s brother Parker but a perceived betrayal forever broke a life long friendship, and in the ensuing aftermath pushed Hannah out of Conner’s life. Fast forward to present day, Hannah Paletti has been tasked with a fundraiser for at-risk kids, a fundraiser where both her brother and Conner have volunteered to participate but Parker’s ongoing hatred of Conner continues to influence Hannah’s friendship with our story line hero, a friendship Conner was hoping to turn into something more. As the antagonistic relationship between Conner and Parker shoves a wedge between our story line couple, Conner is about to take drastic action to prove he was as much of a victim as Parker Paletti. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Conner and Hannah, and the potential fall-out as Parker vitriol towards Conner continues to build distrust for our story line heroine.
Hannah has been in love with her brother’s former best friend for as long as she can remember but siding with her brother meant losing the man who had stolen her heart. Conner is determined to prove he was a victim of a set-up but his methods are about to add more misery for our story line heroine.
The relationship between Hannah and Conner is a brother’s former best friend, second chance of a sort for our story line couple. Parker’s inability to see beyond the pain is influencing his sister, and her issues of trust towards the man that she loves. Conner knows that the only woman he will ever love is the woman that is struggling between head and heart but a struggle he is hoping to prove he is worthy of her love. Forced to choose between family and love, Hannah is heart broken to give in to pressure to keep peace in the family. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied-there is no foul language.
The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and captivating. We are reintroduced to Conner’s brother Finn, a US Navy SEAL, as well as Hannah’s embittered brother Parker, and fellow paramedic Dre.
STRICTLY OFF LIMITS is a story of betrayal and vengeance, manipulation and greed, lies and fraud, acceptance, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is impassioned ; the characters are sassy, spirited and heart broken; the romance is seductive and sweet.
copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual omniscient third person perspective (Hannah and Conner) STRICTLY OFF LIMITS follows the rebuilding relationship and romance between DC police detective, Sergeant Conner Maguire, and paramedic Hannah Paletti. Years earlier, Conner Maguire was best friends with Hannah’s brother Parker but a perceived betrayal forever broke a life long friendship, and in the ensuing aftermath pushed Hannah out of Conner’s life. Fast forward to present day, Hannah Paletti has been tasked with a fundraiser for at-risk kids, a fundraiser where both her brother and Conner have volunteered to participate but Parker’s ongoing hatred of Conner continues to influence Hannah’s friendship with our story line hero, a friendship Conner was hoping to turn into something more. As the antagonistic relationship between Conner and Parker shoves a wedge between our story line couple, Conner is about to take drastic action to prove he was as much of a victim as Parker Paletti. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Conner and Hannah, and the potential fall-out as Parker vitriol towards Conner continues to build distrust for our story line heroine.
Hannah has been in love with her brother’s former best friend for as long as she can remember but siding with her brother meant losing the man who had stolen her heart. Conner is determined to prove he was a victim of a set-up but his methods are about to add more misery for our story line heroine.
The relationship between Hannah and Conner is a brother’s former best friend, second chance of a sort for our story line couple. Parker’s inability to see beyond the pain is influencing his sister, and her issues of trust towards the man that she loves. Conner knows that the only woman he will ever love is the woman that is struggling between head and heart but a struggle he is hoping to prove he is worthy of her love. Forced to choose between family and love, Hannah is heart broken to give in to pressure to keep peace in the family. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied-there is no foul language.
The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and captivating. We are reintroduced to Conner’s brother Finn, a US Navy SEAL, as well as Hannah’s embittered brother Parker, and fellow paramedic Dre.
STRICTLY OFF LIMITS is a story of betrayal and vengeance, manipulation and greed, lies and fraud, acceptance, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is impassioned ; the characters are sassy, spirited and heart broken; the romance is seductive and sweet.
copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
June 24, 2023
I received a copy of this arc of Strictly Off Limits in exchange for my honest review. This is the third book in Stella Holt’s engaging series, Legacy of the Maguires. Book three features Conner Maguire and Hannah Paletti. We met Conner in the first two books of the series. Conner works for the DC police and has been recently promoted to detective. Hannah is a paramedic in the city and has known Conner for years. Her older brother Parker, and Conner used to be best friends until an incident that happened at their college graduation party. Conner was caught the next morning in bed with Parker’s longtime girlfriend. He claimed that he didn’t sleep with his best friend’s girlfriend but Parker didn’t believe him and he became his sworn enemy. The two families didn’t interact after that.
As the book opens, Hannah was selected to head up the committee of first responders for the upcoming fund raiser to build a new community center. Chosen to represent the police is Conner and Parker was selected to represent the fire department. Parker still has lots of anger towards Conner and tries to forbid Hannah from working with him. Both Conner and Hannah have feelings toward the other that have been buried for years due to the forbidden aspect of anything between them. Conner gives the committee his all, making suggestions for events such as a calendar, that he actively participated in. When Parker and Hannah share a kiss they realize there is definitely chemistry involved but because of Parker’s opinion, they hide their feelings.
Conner realizes that the only way he can end up with Hannah is if he finds Parker’s ex girlfriend and get her to admit they didn’t really sleep together. So in addition to his demanding job, his work on the community center committee, he is also trying to locate the ex. Hannah is torn between her brother and what they always believed happened and her growing feelings for Conner. There is a lot of angst, some conflict between the former best friends and lots of hidden romance between Conner and Hannah. I found this to be a very entertaining and enjoyable read. It is a great addition to the fabulous series. I enjoyed seeing some of Conner’s family that we met in the first two books as well as meeting Hannah’s brothers and dad. This is another 5 star book by Stella.
As the book opens, Hannah was selected to head up the committee of first responders for the upcoming fund raiser to build a new community center. Chosen to represent the police is Conner and Parker was selected to represent the fire department. Parker still has lots of anger towards Conner and tries to forbid Hannah from working with him. Both Conner and Hannah have feelings toward the other that have been buried for years due to the forbidden aspect of anything between them. Conner gives the committee his all, making suggestions for events such as a calendar, that he actively participated in. When Parker and Hannah share a kiss they realize there is definitely chemistry involved but because of Parker’s opinion, they hide their feelings.
Conner realizes that the only way he can end up with Hannah is if he finds Parker’s ex girlfriend and get her to admit they didn’t really sleep together. So in addition to his demanding job, his work on the community center committee, he is also trying to locate the ex. Hannah is torn between her brother and what they always believed happened and her growing feelings for Conner. There is a lot of angst, some conflict between the former best friends and lots of hidden romance between Conner and Hannah. I found this to be a very entertaining and enjoyable read. It is a great addition to the fabulous series. I enjoyed seeing some of Conner’s family that we met in the first two books as well as meeting Hannah’s brothers and dad. This is another 5 star book by Stella.
June 28, 2023
What happens when you fall out with your best friend, whose baby sister you've always had feelings for? Well, she becomes STRICTLY OFF LIMITS. The best friend's sibling trope is catnip to me and I really wanted this book as soon as I read the blurb. This is a fun, sweet and lighthearted read I really enjoyed and finished in one sitting.
The main theme of this story is family, but there are other themes in the story like the lies and manipulations of a spoiled socialite, which cause the rift between friends; as well as love, acceptance and forgiveness, which Ms. Holt handles with a light hand.
Connor may have the movie star good looks and be well off financially with the attendant trappings, but at his core is a adorable guy, thoughtful and down-to-earth, who is very family oriented and not ego-driven. Plus he's very charming. But he's still a guy and what may have been resolved with a bit of time became a multi-year grudge between him and his ex-best friend and he has to walk away from his growing feelings for Hannah.
Hannah is also very focused on her family, and is understandably torn between loyalty to her brother and her feelings for Connor and she is willing to give up the one thing she's wanted for a very long time - a relationship with Connor - in order to keep the peace in her family. I wanted to shake her a few times for jumping to conclusions and hug Connor for his patience, but most of all, I wanted to knock some sense into her brother.
Getting to happily ever after is a fun experience for Hannah and Connor, with an entertaining cast of secondary characters. I look forward to reading the rest of the series and getting to know the Maguire family.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
The main theme of this story is family, but there are other themes in the story like the lies and manipulations of a spoiled socialite, which cause the rift between friends; as well as love, acceptance and forgiveness, which Ms. Holt handles with a light hand.
Connor may have the movie star good looks and be well off financially with the attendant trappings, but at his core is a adorable guy, thoughtful and down-to-earth, who is very family oriented and not ego-driven. Plus he's very charming. But he's still a guy and what may have been resolved with a bit of time became a multi-year grudge between him and his ex-best friend and he has to walk away from his growing feelings for Hannah.
Hannah is also very focused on her family, and is understandably torn between loyalty to her brother and her feelings for Connor and she is willing to give up the one thing she's wanted for a very long time - a relationship with Connor - in order to keep the peace in her family. I wanted to shake her a few times for jumping to conclusions and hug Connor for his patience, but most of all, I wanted to knock some sense into her brother.
Getting to happily ever after is a fun experience for Hannah and Connor, with an entertaining cast of secondary characters. I look forward to reading the rest of the series and getting to know the Maguire family.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
June 22, 2023
It's typically the rule that your best friend's little sister is off limits, but when that best friend becomes your EX-best friend? Then, his little sister is strictly off limits. That's where Hannah finds herself with her old crush Conner Maguire.
Hannah's brother Parker and Conner used to be best friends. That is until Parker found his college girlfriend in Conner's bed. Now, they are sworn enemies. Hannah finds herself having to work with these two ex-besties on a community project and she knows that this won't go well. Even worse is that she can't deny her feelings for Conner, and Conner is making every attempt to get Hannah to forgive him. He claims his innocence, but even if he can prove it, Hannah may find herself having to choose between her brother and the man that she's falling for.
This is a quick, fairly light read with just a touch of angst and drama. With all of these characters working in community service (Hannah is an EMT, Conner is a Police Officer and Parker is a Fireman), having them all come together to work on a community project was a refreshing storyline that isn't all that common. I felt like this story had an insta-love feel to it, but it really is somewhat of a second chance romance as Conner and Hannah could have had a blossoming relationship until everything fell apart. I was curious throughout the story to see how the past events would come to light, and although it was a little anticlimactic, I liked the way that the story unfolded.
This is the third book in the Legacy of the Maguires series, but it can totally be read as a standalone novel. This is the first book that I've read by this author and I'm definitely interested in reading more.
Hannah's brother Parker and Conner used to be best friends. That is until Parker found his college girlfriend in Conner's bed. Now, they are sworn enemies. Hannah finds herself having to work with these two ex-besties on a community project and she knows that this won't go well. Even worse is that she can't deny her feelings for Conner, and Conner is making every attempt to get Hannah to forgive him. He claims his innocence, but even if he can prove it, Hannah may find herself having to choose between her brother and the man that she's falling for.
This is a quick, fairly light read with just a touch of angst and drama. With all of these characters working in community service (Hannah is an EMT, Conner is a Police Officer and Parker is a Fireman), having them all come together to work on a community project was a refreshing storyline that isn't all that common. I felt like this story had an insta-love feel to it, but it really is somewhat of a second chance romance as Conner and Hannah could have had a blossoming relationship until everything fell apart. I was curious throughout the story to see how the past events would come to light, and although it was a little anticlimactic, I liked the way that the story unfolded.
This is the third book in the Legacy of the Maguires series, but it can totally be read as a standalone novel. This is the first book that I've read by this author and I'm definitely interested in reading more.
May 31, 2023
We are back in DC with the MacGuire siblings. A well respected family in the community, all dedicated to serve in one form or another. This time the story belongs to Conner MacGuire. Conner, a man that has made his money through investments has no need to work, but he loves his job in law enforcement and wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Hannah Paletti developed a crush at a young age and would follow Conner, and her brother Parker everywhere. These two boys were best friends until their last year in college when Parker’s girlfriend tricked everyone with her lies and ended the friendship.
Hannah, nowadays a paramedic, is determined to help the community center’s fundraising endeavor, Conner is assigned to help her. The attraction between them is evident but Hannah’s loyalties to her brother seems to constantly interfere .
Will they be able to overcome the obstacles Hannah has put up? Will Parker accept the relationship?
The plot was engaging and the characters likable. My only con to the story was that I felt the ending and the resolution with Parker’s former girlfriend, felt abrupt and a tad rushed after all the crescendo to the conflict. Just a personal opinion and truly a minor objection.
I am looking forward to what else is in store in this series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Hannah Paletti developed a crush at a young age and would follow Conner, and her brother Parker everywhere. These two boys were best friends until their last year in college when Parker’s girlfriend tricked everyone with her lies and ended the friendship.
Hannah, nowadays a paramedic, is determined to help the community center’s fundraising endeavor, Conner is assigned to help her. The attraction between them is evident but Hannah’s loyalties to her brother seems to constantly interfere .
Will they be able to overcome the obstacles Hannah has put up? Will Parker accept the relationship?
The plot was engaging and the characters likable. My only con to the story was that I felt the ending and the resolution with Parker’s former girlfriend, felt abrupt and a tad rushed after all the crescendo to the conflict. Just a personal opinion and truly a minor objection.
I am looking forward to what else is in store in this series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 23, 2023
Strictly Off Limits is passionate and witty romance that I enjoyed so much! Although it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.
Hannah Paletti is a paramedic who loves her job and family. She is in charge of setting up the annual community service project. And she happens to be planning it with her longtime crush, Conner Maguire. Conner is a detective and the enemy of the Paletti's. He wasn't always in this position. He used to be the best friend to Hannah's brother, but after a falling out he was shunned by the whole family.
When Hannah and Conner are forced to work together, it brings out their fun and flirty personalities. Conner is a flirt but he also has and has always had feelings for Hannah. He just needs to prove to her and the whole Paletti family that his supposed betrayal was a big misunderstanding.
After some time, its getting so hard for Hannah to deny her feelings. But she knows that her brother would never approve and disown her. She always puts family first, but Conner has her questioning that loyalty.
I really loved the cute and flirtatious moments between Hannah and Conner. They are so good together and Stella Holt brought the heat! I didn't want to put it down. Now, that I've got my first taste of the Legacy of the Maguires series, I want more!
Hannah Paletti is a paramedic who loves her job and family. She is in charge of setting up the annual community service project. And she happens to be planning it with her longtime crush, Conner Maguire. Conner is a detective and the enemy of the Paletti's. He wasn't always in this position. He used to be the best friend to Hannah's brother, but after a falling out he was shunned by the whole family.
When Hannah and Conner are forced to work together, it brings out their fun and flirty personalities. Conner is a flirt but he also has and has always had feelings for Hannah. He just needs to prove to her and the whole Paletti family that his supposed betrayal was a big misunderstanding.
After some time, its getting so hard for Hannah to deny her feelings. But she knows that her brother would never approve and disown her. She always puts family first, but Conner has her questioning that loyalty.
I really loved the cute and flirtatious moments between Hannah and Conner. They are so good together and Stella Holt brought the heat! I didn't want to put it down. Now, that I've got my first taste of the Legacy of the Maguires series, I want more!
June 24, 2023
This is a fun addition to the Maguire Legacy series, focusing on Conner. He has appeared in support of his siblings in previous books, but it was a treat to get to know him better here.
Life, and a charity function, bring him back into the orbit of Hannah. She is the younger sister of his former best friend. The conflict here isn’t one huge event, but carried throughout and is directly related to Hannah’s brother. This is an interesting sub plot in the larger story.
Hannah and Conner are a feel good story and I found myself rooting for them to figure things out. He is definitely a “cinnamon roll” of a hero!
Given that the stories of this series are sequential, there are potential spoilers if you aren’t reading in order, but nothing that would really detract from the book. We see both sets of siblings in supportive roles here. It makes me very curious for Finn’s story and has me wondering if Hannah’s brothers might be next!
Life, and a charity function, bring him back into the orbit of Hannah. She is the younger sister of his former best friend. The conflict here isn’t one huge event, but carried throughout and is directly related to Hannah’s brother. This is an interesting sub plot in the larger story.
Hannah and Conner are a feel good story and I found myself rooting for them to figure things out. He is definitely a “cinnamon roll” of a hero!
Given that the stories of this series are sequential, there are potential spoilers if you aren’t reading in order, but nothing that would really detract from the book. We see both sets of siblings in supportive roles here. It makes me very curious for Finn’s story and has me wondering if Hannah’s brothers might be next!
June 29, 2023
Hannah and Parker Paletti and Conner Maguire had been childhood friends forever until the morning after a big college party when Parker’s girlfriend Mariah decided to crawl into a passed out Conner’s bed. It also ended any chance for Hannah and Conner’s relationship to grow. Even though Conner denied any knowledge of why Mariah was there, Parker refused to believe him and Hannah sticking by her brother, refused any attempts from Conner to talk with him.
Years later Conner, a newly appointed police sergeant receives an assignment to team with Hannah, a paramedic working on a community service event. Even though the sparks are still flying between them, Hannah is still pressured by Parker to stay away from Conner. Conner is just as determined to get Hannah to give them a chance and plans to prove Mariah had ulterior motives.
I received an arc from the author. The review is my own.
Years later Conner, a newly appointed police sergeant receives an assignment to team with Hannah, a paramedic working on a community service event. Even though the sparks are still flying between them, Hannah is still pressured by Parker to stay away from Conner. Conner is just as determined to get Hannah to give them a chance and plans to prove Mariah had ulterior motives.
I received an arc from the author. The review is my own.
June 19, 2023
I feel like this book had all the things I love about romance books pre-booktok, but I also struggled with how I see things that prevented me from giving the book 5 stars as well. I loved Connor and how him and Hannah’s brother no longer get along after their fall out during college. He had pride, and more importantly the truth on his side, and his respect for her brother the whole time, really made Connor stand out for me so much.
For Hannah, while I knew she was acting with family loyalty, I feel like she gave her brother’s opinion too much weight than it needed. Like her family would rather keep their brother happy than let her be happy with the man she loves. Add that to her lack of trust with Connor and I struggled to like her, her redemption could have been flushed out a little more for me, but overall I still loved the book and read it in one sitting!
For Hannah, while I knew she was acting with family loyalty, I feel like she gave her brother’s opinion too much weight than it needed. Like her family would rather keep their brother happy than let her be happy with the man she loves. Add that to her lack of trust with Connor and I struggled to like her, her redemption could have been flushed out a little more for me, but overall I still loved the book and read it in one sitting!
June 19, 2023
Strictly Off Limits is the third book in the Legacy of the Maguires series. Each of the books in this interconnected series can be read as a standalone. This time it is Hannah Paletti and Conner Maguire’s story.
Hannah is torn. Her brother Parker and Conner who were best friends growing up are now in a feud.
Now Conner is working with Hannah on a project for work. They are magnetically drawn together but Hannah doesn’t want to hurt her brother. Of course she is being hurt too because she loves both men. One her brother, Parker and two her romantic interest, Connor.
I think I am in love. Connor is my new book boyfriend. He is loyal, caring and just plain out a nice man.
I loved reading this book and I am so excited that Finn Maguire’s story will be told in Love and Order, book #4.
Hannah is torn. Her brother Parker and Conner who were best friends growing up are now in a feud.
Now Conner is working with Hannah on a project for work. They are magnetically drawn together but Hannah doesn’t want to hurt her brother. Of course she is being hurt too because she loves both men. One her brother, Parker and two her romantic interest, Connor.
I think I am in love. Connor is my new book boyfriend. He is loyal, caring and just plain out a nice man.
I loved reading this book and I am so excited that Finn Maguire’s story will be told in Love and Order, book #4.
June 19, 2023
Strictly Off Limits (Legacy of the Maguires Book 3) by Stella Holt is a forbidden love story concerning Conner Maguire and Hannah Paletti. They have a history that includes her brother and college days. They also have a hot attraction that puts Hannah in a tough place trying to chose between family and love. Of course, we know that you shouldn’t have to choose.
The flirting was a lot of fun to read along with seeing Connor fall head over heels. Hannah’s struggles to reconcile family loyalty to what her heart wants was heart tugging. They have such a wonderful chemistry that I was pulling for them to make it together.
A delightful addition to the series.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The flirting was a lot of fun to read along with seeing Connor fall head over heels. Hannah’s struggles to reconcile family loyalty to what her heart wants was heart tugging. They have such a wonderful chemistry that I was pulling for them to make it together.
A delightful addition to the series.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 23, 2023
This is my first book by this author, so I did not know what to expect, but now Stella Holt is on my radar, I can't wait to see what comes next.
Strictly Off Limits is a once brother best friend romance that is all sorts of complicated because, at College, Connor and Hannah's brother had a falling out, resulting in the friendship they all had since they were ten coming to an abrupt halt, however, that doesn't stop Hannah and Connor having hidden feelings for each other, now Connor is up for the fight to make her his and pulls out all those flirty swoon-worthy moves, but for Hannah can she let her heart rule her head and put herself before her family.
This author did a great job of showing you the dilemma that Hannah goes through, and the wonderful connection she and Connor have, and produces a really lovely HEA.
Strictly Off Limits is a once brother best friend romance that is all sorts of complicated because, at College, Connor and Hannah's brother had a falling out, resulting in the friendship they all had since they were ten coming to an abrupt halt, however, that doesn't stop Hannah and Connor having hidden feelings for each other, now Connor is up for the fight to make her his and pulls out all those flirty swoon-worthy moves, but for Hannah can she let her heart rule her head and put herself before her family.
This author did a great job of showing you the dilemma that Hannah goes through, and the wonderful connection she and Connor have, and produces a really lovely HEA.
June 28, 2023
Strictly Off Limits, the third book in the Legacy of the Maguires series by Stella Holt, spins a tender love story that was years in the making. The chemistry that flowed between Connor and Hannah was hotter than jolts of electricity...their history drove the narrative of misconceptions, misunderstandings, and lack of trust. To break down the walls of ”family loyalty above all else”, which separated the couple for years, took a leap of faith for Hanna that paid off richly in the end. Connor’s tenacious traits of persistence, love, and unfailing belief in Hanna were endearing and heartwarming...demonstrating once again the Maguire determination that has been woven throughout the series.
This ARC book was complimentary and provided by the Publisher. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
This ARC book was complimentary and provided by the Publisher. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
July 4, 2023
Connor was best friends with Hannah's brother and therefore off limits. That did not stop her from crushing on him or him staring in her dreams. After a misunderstanding that friendship ended and Connor was the bad guy. Hannah stayed away as loyalty to her brother. Now years later he ends up assigned to her community service project. He uses the opportunity to get to know Hannah and to let her get to know him. He is not a bad guy. He was so hurt that his best friend didn't ask him what happened and he took the fall. Now he wants to clear his name so Hannah stops thinking the worst of him. After they kiss they can't deny that there is something there. Hannah has to chose between Conner and her loyalty to her brother. Can Conner prove he was innocent or will the whole thing blow up in his face? Good read.
June 30, 2023
Stella Holt was new to me with her debut novel, Last First Kiss, the beginning of her Legacy of the Maguires series. I’m always willing to take a chance on a new or new-to-me author because you never know when you’ll find your next favorite. I’m delighted I took a chance on it, which led to the desire to see where the next book took me. Spoiler alert: I thoroughly enjoyed it. And that brings us to Strictly Off Limits. While it’s a standalone title, I highly recommend all of the Maguire series books because they are simply really good reads. Needless to say, I’m a Stella Holt fan so far!
It’s hard to categorize the tropes in this story as it’s not quite a brother’s best friend (they once were besties but now are enemies), and neither is it truly an enemies-to-lovers because Connor and Hannah aren’t your typical enemies, either. I’d call it more of an unrequited love that neither wants to admit is totally their thing. Honestly, I was thrilled with how hard it was to classify the tropes in this book because it gave the plot a fresh spin. Sometimes in romance books, the typical ones feel tired and overused.
This book is highly character-driven. I usually want to smack heroes in these types of books, but in this case, I wished I could have given Hannah a hearty shake so many times throughout the story rather than Connor. While I understand why she clung to her stubborn loyalty to her brother for so long, he was obviously a major jerk. To me, that should have given her the excuse not to side with him. And Connor was just downright swoony, so how she held out was beyond me. Regardless, they eventually get their HEA, but not without plenty of bumps in the road.
Now, I’m anxious to see how Ms. Holt will wrap up the series with Finn’s book, which is due to be released in mid-August!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭑ (4.5)
It’s hard to categorize the tropes in this story as it’s not quite a brother’s best friend (they once were besties but now are enemies), and neither is it truly an enemies-to-lovers because Connor and Hannah aren’t your typical enemies, either. I’d call it more of an unrequited love that neither wants to admit is totally their thing. Honestly, I was thrilled with how hard it was to classify the tropes in this book because it gave the plot a fresh spin. Sometimes in romance books, the typical ones feel tired and overused.
This book is highly character-driven. I usually want to smack heroes in these types of books, but in this case, I wished I could have given Hannah a hearty shake so many times throughout the story rather than Connor. While I understand why she clung to her stubborn loyalty to her brother for so long, he was obviously a major jerk. To me, that should have given her the excuse not to side with him. And Connor was just downright swoony, so how she held out was beyond me. Regardless, they eventually get their HEA, but not without plenty of bumps in the road.
Now, I’m anxious to see how Ms. Holt will wrap up the series with Finn’s book, which is due to be released in mid-August!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭑ (4.5)
February 15, 2025
cute read. very pg
Blackout smexy scenes which i was a little disappointed in. Very fast pace the emotions there the buildup I did feel a little jipped about the confrontation with Mariah, which is why I gave it four stars, but it’s a real cute read very easy. this was my first book of the series so I missed a little backstory with other couples, but didn’t need it. The book focuses on the couple. With the growth of the characters with the event planning, and the promotion of Connor very well rounded could have been a little longer with a little bit more details, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Blackout smexy scenes which i was a little disappointed in. Very fast pace the emotions there the buildup I did feel a little jipped about the confrontation with Mariah, which is why I gave it four stars, but it’s a real cute read very easy. this was my first book of the series so I missed a little backstory with other couples, but didn’t need it. The book focuses on the couple. With the growth of the characters with the event planning, and the promotion of Connor very well rounded could have been a little longer with a little bit more details, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
June 9, 2023
A “not with my sister romance” with the brother’s grudge standing firmly in the way. Given a chance at love, Hannah battles her feelings for Connor and her loyalty to her brother. All along she has to work with Connor on a huge charity gala. Working together cements her to him. A blow of the hammer could destroy it all. Connor’s love overtures create a delightful story and smooth out the ridges of Hannah’s fears.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 21, 2023
I have loved this series from the very beginning. This third book was another great addition to this series. Connor and Hannah story was a second chance romance in a way. It was also the chance for them to finally give in to what they both wanted. Their story was an amazing from start to finish. It was full of family, tension, and a lot of emotion. I cannot wait to see how the next book in this series plays out. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 12, 2023
Loved it!
I just loved this book. The Maguire men are just terrific - funny and sexy. I like that Conner wants to serve the public, even though he has made a fortune and is a financial genius. Hannah is torn between her love for her brother and her love for Conner and in the end, it’s her family that helps her make the right decision. You are going to love this third installment of the Maguire. Can’t wait for Finn’s story.
I just loved this book. The Maguire men are just terrific - funny and sexy. I like that Conner wants to serve the public, even though he has made a fortune and is a financial genius. Hannah is torn between her love for her brother and her love for Conner and in the end, it’s her family that helps her make the right decision. You are going to love this third installment of the Maguire. Can’t wait for Finn’s story.
June 19, 2023
This book was what I needed - a fun book with rival families that make their secret love. Stella made Connor and Hannah’s characters realistic, trying to hide their romance from her family. And we all know how that usually goes, and Stella tells their story with humor and lots of romance.
While this is the first book in this series I have read and honestly the first from Stella Holt, I will be going back to read the others and looking forward to the next one in the Maguires series.
While this is the first book in this series I have read and honestly the first from Stella Holt, I will be going back to read the others and looking forward to the next one in the Maguires series.
June 26, 2023
This is a book that I could not put down. A forbidden secret romance with plenty of family drama that will keep you turning the pages till the end and then you want more!! Connor and Hannah grew up together and is her brother's sworn enemy. They are now working on a community project together and share just one kiss, and soon they know it will not be enough. Now they need to solve the misunderstanding the Connor and her brother share.
This is the third book in the series, but can be read as a stand alone. I just love this family of first responders and looking forward to reading Hannah's family now. I highly recommend this author.
This is the third book in the series, but can be read as a stand alone. I just love this family of first responders and looking forward to reading Hannah's family now. I highly recommend this author.
July 8, 2023
Cover model doesn’t match description but other than that I absolutely loved this book! The family dynamics and loyalty there was written amazingly. I loved the longing between the MMC & FMC!
When Stella signed my books she wrote “when your brothers enemy is the only one you want…. It’s going to get hot!”
Now I think enemies was a little dramatic, but replace that with ex-best friend and that’s exactly what you get in this book!
I will definitely be reading more of this series
When Stella signed my books she wrote “when your brothers enemy is the only one you want…. It’s going to get hot!”
Now I think enemies was a little dramatic, but replace that with ex-best friend and that’s exactly what you get in this book!
I will definitely be reading more of this series
May 11, 2023
An emotional page-turning romance.
This book has a bit of everything, passion, family drama, a secret romance and a great storyline that pulls it all together. I couldn’t wait to see how Hannah and Conner would find a way to be together without Hannah’s opinionated brother interfering. This book is a great addition to the Legacy of the McGuires series and it can be read as a stand-alone.
This book has a bit of everything, passion, family drama, a secret romance and a great storyline that pulls it all together. I couldn’t wait to see how Hannah and Conner would find a way to be together without Hannah’s opinionated brother interfering. This book is a great addition to the Legacy of the McGuires series and it can be read as a stand-alone.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews