Title: Hard to Hold
Author: Stephanie Tyler
First published January 1, 2009
370 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780440244349 (ISBN10: 044024434X)
Rating: 3.9
Overview
When Lieutenant Jack Hansen is tasked with escorting the beautiful and brilliant Dr. Emma Matthews out of a war-torn country, he knows it won’t be easy. Not only is she a valuable asset to the United States government, but the chemistry between them is undeniable.
Emma may be grateful to Jack for rescuing her from danger, but she’s determined to keep her heart guarded, especially since she has a secret that could put them both in danger. As they navigate through dangerous territory and fight to stay alive, Jack and Emma can’t deny the passion that simmers between them.
Will they be able to resist each other, or will they succumb to the heat of their attraction? Find out in Stephanie Tyler’s gripping novel, Hard to Hold.
About the Author
Stephanie Tyler is a successful author who writes books that she loves to read. Her stories fall into two main genres: romantic suspense novels with military heroes, and paranormal romance novels with warrior heroes.
Her books always have happy endings. She also writes under the pen name SE Jakes.
As if that weren’t enough, Tyler also co-writes books with another author under the name Sydney Croft. Tyler resides in New York with her family and a lively Weimaraner named Gus.
If you’re interested in learning more about Stephanie Tyler, you can visit her website or contact her directly at [email protected]. For more information on SE Jakes, check out SEJakes.com.
And if you want to know more about Sydney Croft, visit their website or email Sydney at [email protected].
Editoral Review
Stephanie Tyler’s Hard to Hold is a riveting novel in the romance-suspense genre. The book was first published on January 1, 2009, and has drawn praise for its captivating style and engaging characters.
The novel centers around the character of Donovan Wolfe, a former Navy SEAL turned security operative, who is tasked with protecting Skylar Dunbar, an artist with a traumatic past. As Donovan and Skylar navigate their burgeoning feelings for each other, they face danger from a ruthless adversary determined to destroy them both.
Tyler skillfully weaves together suspense and romance, building tension throughout the novel while developing a rich cast of characters. Donovan and Skylar are both flawed and three-dimensional, and their vibrant chemistry adds depth to the plot.
The novel’s dark, edgy plotline is juxtaposed with moments of tenderness and vulnerability, making for an emotionally charged read. One of the strengths of Hard to Hold is Tyler’s vivid descriptions of setting and atmosphere.
The book’s New Orleans backdrop is evocatively rendered, and the city’s rich history and culture provides an atmospheric backdrop for the tense plotline. While Hard to Hold is an entertaining page-turner, it also touches on deeper themes of trauma, healing, and redemption.
Tyler’s sensitive handling of the characters’ past traumas adds a layer of emotional depth to the novel, elevating it above typical romance-suspense fare. One potential weakness of the novel is its occasionally rushed pacing.
Some plot developments feel slightly forced and could have benefitted from more fleshing out. However, this flaw is ultimately minor and does not detract from the overall impact of the novel.
Overall, Hard to Hold is a compelling and engaging read that will delight fans of the romance-suspense genre. Tyler’s skillful storytelling and vivid characters combine to create a memorable novel that tackles both heart-pumping thrills and thought-provoking themes.
Highly recommended. Rating: 4/5 stars.