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The sizzling, second installment in the Alexa Reed series.

Beautiful and successful Alexa Reed has dark secrets in her past that prevent her from trusting in love. Her fears start to fade when she meets charismatic, South Beach hotel owner, Julian Bauer, who is willing to put his extravagant playboy lifestyle behind him just to be with her.

He’s a man who likes a challenge.

Alexa’s newfound bliss is still fragile as she struggles to deal with the trauma of her ex-boyfriend’s death. Is Julian's love for Alexa strong enough to heal her emotional scars and convince her their love is real?

Alexa is not the only one with secrets and what’s to come threatens to destroy their future together. Now it’s Julian who needs Alexa more than ever. Will she be able to hold on?

Hold On is Book 2 of the Alexa Reed series and is the follow-up from the hugely popular, Stay.

Praise for Stay (Book 1 of the Alexa Reed series)

“I started this book as soon as the kids left for school and could not put it down. When forced to put it down I was thinking about it and wondering what would happen next. I finished it before I went to bed, I just could not stop reading.”
Charlotte Lynn, A Novel Review

“I honestly have no words for this book. It has left me speechless. It is a definite six stars on my five star scale.”
Brittany Alexander, Brittany’s Book Blog

520 pages, Paperback

Published April 11, 2014

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About the author

Hilary Wynne

5 books162 followers
Have you ever woken up one day and said, “Today’s the day I’m going to do (insert thing here)?” Well, I did, and the result is my first novel, Stay. I always thought of myself as a decent writer, and then a trip down memory lane through my ninth grade book of poetry confirmed it. I realize that I have always had a romantic side and a way with words. With support from my husband and kids (and an unspoken agreement to leave me alone for a few hours every night), I embarked on this incredible writing journey.

I’m originally from sunny Southern California and spent my summers in South Florida. I attended college at FSU and received my Masters in New Mexico. I finally settled in the Washington, DC area. My happy place has always been anywhere near the water.

When I’m not writing, I help run a business with my husband, watch an inordinate amount of sports (my kids play something 365 days a year), indulge my competitive spirit on the tennis court, and spend time with my awesome family and friends.

I am an avid reader, but find my characters feel neglected when I hang out with other author’s characters for too long. When I do read, historical fiction is my favorite genre. I love traveling and experiencing different cultures, places, and times.

I feel so blessed that my love of books inspired me to finally do something that I forgot I had always dreamed about doing.

My someday has arrived!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
Profile Image for Ann Marie.
210 reviews12 followers
October 3, 2015
5+ Amazing stars

You know how you feel when you get off a rollercoaster and your belly has butterflies and you’re a little giddy your whole body has been heightened by the ride? Well I must say that the rollercoaster ride that is Hold On was the best damn ride I have been on since I can’t remember when. You made me cry, you made me laugh but most of all you made me feel compassion for two people who were so totally screwed due to circumstances but loved each other so much. This story between Alexa (Lexi) and Julian, her friends, her best friend, her co-workers and her parents-wow! You have me! I love everything about this book I am not giving this a factual review I am giving this a review from my heart. Thank you for this amazing story, for some reason this book, this series has grabbed me and won’t let me go. You make me want to learn Spanish! LOL. Your song choices are perfect I had to look a couple up and yet again, I cried.

My heart was racing as I lay there at 3 am reading. All of these emotions were stirring within me and I had to fight with myself to put it down so that I had something look forward to in the morning. Boy am I glad I waited I had two chapters to go and I couldn’t COULD NOT put this down. I love the way he loves her. The sex scenes in this book are so erotic, and so intense.

Some facts though, Alexa finally admits her love for Julian. She is so happy he STAYED but the drama is far from over. Alexa finally admits everything that has happened between her and Brady to her closest friends, Julian and Ellen (her therapist). Brady’s mom wants to see her she needs to talk to her about a few things I have to say I wasn’t surprised by what happened there but I still hurt for Alexa. Seeing Luke again was hard too. I have come to love him and I am sad my heart breaks for him (insert Stay by Sam Smith). Julian gets devastating news and actually for the first time in this book drinks and drinks way too much (I knew it!! that is all I am saying but my gut was right!). The news? NO NOT TELLING YOU! You have to read it! He needs Alexa to HOLD ON he needs to HOLD ON will they hold on to each other is the question? Well you have to read the book to find out!

Hilary Wynne thanks again for this awesome rollercoaster ride and I look forward to more from you. Please tell me there is more….more Luke, more Alexa and Julian ….please!!! lol.
Profile Image for BethyMac.
714 reviews17 followers
August 10, 2014
5+ Sensational Sexy Hot Stars

I fell in love with this series when I recently picked up Stay and could not wait to dig into this one when I finished the first one. I thought the first book was an emotional rollercoaster, compared to this book, that one was definitely a kiddie coaster.

Hold On is the second book in the Alexa Reed series and picks right up where we left off in Stay so if you haven’t read Stay, stop right now, read no further and go read it, you won’t be sorry. Like Stay, Hold on once again is a hot and sexy yet also still romantic read that I absolutely loved and now suffering from a Julian hangover. This book is filled with great sexy moments but also has lots of angst as well as some heartbreaking moments, like I said an emotional rollercoaster!

Alexa has faced her past and what has happened and has made her choice between Julian and Luke. She is finally letting the walls down and letting Julian in so she can finally have her dream of Happily ever After. But HEA only happens in fairytales, real life is full of life changing events and hard choices and just as she has reached the happiest she has ever been, that all changes in the blink of an eye when Julian’s past catches up with them and she is forced to make a choice, stand by him like he did with her or move on from him live a lonely life.

This book had so many ups and downs, that when I was done I felt completely exhausted, but totally in a good way! I really loved all these two had to face and how they faced it, it was truly realistic and that is what I loved the most about it. Was it what I wanted to do or how I wanted them to react, no. Was it the way I would have handled it, not really sure. But it truly left me sitting on the edge of my seat not able to put my kindle down as I just had to know what was going to happen, I needed my broken heart to heal for these two, they were meant to be together, anybody could see it, except Alexa.

I fell in love with both Julian and Alexa in the first book, and I didn’t think I could fall in love with them more but I did, especially Julian. Julian wasn’t perfect, and I loved that. His imperfections truly made him the perfect BBF, if that makes any sense, but all I know is that now that I have finished this second book, which I pretty much inhaled, I have a serious Julian hangover and am chomping at the bit wanting book 3.
I have to really commend the author with her writing in both of these books, the were truly engaging from start to finish, left you with so many emotions while you journeyed through their story and although as I neared the end of both books I was left feeling that the story really didn’t have anywhere else to go in another book, the author totally surprised me with the continuation of their story in this book and can’t see where she will take them in the third one. I also want to commend the author that these books end with you being in a good place rather than leave you hanging but they also leaving you wanting so much more, the perfect way, IN my opinion anyway, that a trilogy should be written.
September 27, 2015
4.5 stars

I literally just closed my e-reader after finishing Hold On. And while I'm having trouble processing the roller coaster of emotions I'm still feeling, I know I just read a great book.

I can sum up this book with one word. Drama (and really, that should be Lexie's middle name). This is a pretty long book and a lot happening. Julian and Lexie's relationship is very fragile and despite the work both of them put into it, there are still hurdles to overcome. Julian's past catches up with him in this book and the results rock Lexie's world. Just when they are in a great place, her world starts to fall apart all over again. And despite Julian's love, it's clear these two have a long way to go before they can get their happily ever after.

I'm not going to ruin anything with spoilers so just prepare yourself to laugh, cry, feel the urge to slap every single character at least one and try not to break your kindle!

After reading book one, I was so in love with this story and these characters. The few problems with the author's writing style were easily overlooked because Julian and Lexie just reeled me into their world. I am please to report that book two in the series shows an improvement in the author's writing style. It's less choppy and flows much better. It's still not perfect, perhaps a little too descriptive at times but I can tell a difference.

Julian is a big reason why I fell in love with this series. He's so perfect, it makes me want to cry. He's hot, sexy, and loyal but yet he's actual not 'perfect'. He pushes Lexie and they drive each other crazy but these two were meant to be together. Off the charts chemistry here! Hilary does a great job with the sex scenes and there are plenty of them but there's also a story that will tug at your emotions.

Lexie is completely neurotic and I love her. She drives me nuts but deep down she's a great person and just has a lot of issues to work on. I am very glad that by the end of this story, her character had made pretty big strides in regards to her insecurity and past dealing with the death of her ex-boyfriend.

And Luke... oh Luke. I loved him, I hated him and despite everything I love him again and my heart aches for him. He makes a few appearances in this book but I won't ruin anything regarding his storyline. I don't think we've heard the last of him though.

The end is not a cliffhanger, however, there are definite unresolved problems to lead into book three. I am anxiously waiting and I can't wait to get Julian back on my kindle. Because seriously... sigh. And if Luke doesn't get a resolution in book three, I really hope Hilary will write a book for him as well. Very difficult to tell where the storyline is going to go at this point which just makes book three all the more exciting!
Profile Image for Brittany Alexander.
577 reviews17 followers
December 15, 2017
Wow! I absolutely love Hilary Wynne. Her first book, Stay, was phenomenal, and this one is even better! Hold On continues the story on Alexa Reed and Julian Bauer, as they continue on through a rocky relationship together.
Alexa Reed has been struggling this past year to get over the death of her boyfriend. When she meets Julian Bauer, sexy hotel owner, she immediately feels a connection to him. Their relationship starts off as just a lot of hot sex, but soon it grows as she opens up to him, telling him things she has told no one else.
Julian Bauer is a dominating, sexy-as-sin hotel owner. He is also basically running his own company. When he meets Alexa Reed, she’s all he can think about. He stops his playboy lifestyle and buckles down, determined to show her he’s serious about her.
Alexa is always prepared to leave. She’s unwilling to get her heart broken again, and is always on guard. She leaves Julian multiple times, but always comes back.
Finally, she gets her act together. Everything is going good, but one night, when Julian, who never drinks, is drunk and unwilling to see or talk to her, she knows something is wrong, very wrong. The words that spill out of Julian’s mouth once he does speak to her spin Alexa into a tailspin.
She stays with him, regardless, but starts to second guess their relationship. Will Alexa stay and hold on to Julian, or will she leave him, once again, but for good?
Hilary Wynne is an INCREDIBLE author. Really, she is. She writes about things that could actually happen to you or your friends. Her characters are relatable and real. And the best thing about her writing, is she can make you FEEL. She can make you feel more than you ever have before, and that is probably the greatest strength anyone can have as a writer.
The struggles the characters face are things that are common. I don’t want to spoil anything, but let me say this, these people could be your friends. Not just Alexa and Julian, but Marissa, Shannon, Lauren, and Danny. That’s another thing that’s great about her writing, is that she knows what’s up. She knows how to make you relate to her stories.
The best thing ever about Hilary Wynne’s writing is how well emotions can transfer from the pages to your actual physical self. I held up a conversation on Facebook with Hilary while I read this, and half the time I was screaming or crying or swooning. I am one of those kinds of people that loves the roller coaster rides that books can take you on. If you enjoy those types of books, then read this! But make sure you read book one, Stay, first.
Six golden stars for my lovely ride or die chick. Six stars for the love, the pain, and the friendship that you wrote about. I am already dying from the wait of the next book. You go girl!
Profile Image for Rita Henriques.
11 reviews
April 15, 2014
I’m speechless and I don’t know what to say. When I started to read the 2nd book of this series, I had some expectations and ideas. But I wasn't prepared for what was about to come.
Alexa is still struggling with her past demons but we are able to see that she is really trying to get over it and move on.
But in this book, I think the leading role belongs to Julian. He leads the whole story. And what a story!
And don’t forget Luke, surprises us in the best way possible.
The story is amazing and intense.
The characters are extremely real. The story is so real. The shoes are too real!
At first, I must confess I didn't understand Alexa and her insecurity issues. Sometimes I wanted to scream: Why?? Why don’t you see what’s right in front of you? But as the story is told, we learn a lot of things which help us understand.
Alexa suffers so much in this book that we suffer with her, we cry with her and we really feel the need to hold on to her.
In the end of the book, there are a thousand questions that need to be answered and I think we must be prepared because it will explode into flames. I'm guessing a war of titans is about to come.
Hilary Wynne writes the story in such a way that we are transported to that scenario in a blink of an eye. We see Alexa and her clothes and her shoes, we see Julian and we can feel his scent, we see Luke and we can almost touch him.
The sex scenes are hot; really racy. Prepare yourselves for combustion.

I'm not expecting an easy life for Alexa in the days to come but I do hope that in the end, she can live her happily ever after. She deserves it. And so does Julian and Luke.

I can do nothing but recommend this wonderful book and this series.
Who is going to win this fight? Julian stayed in the first book, Alexa held on in the second. What’s going to happen now? Let’s hope that the 3rd book doesn’t take too long to come out.
A five star book without any doubt. A must read!!
Profile Image for Book Junky Girls.
840 reviews34 followers
August 25, 2014
4.5 Stars

There are those books that you read that have your sporting an emotional burn deep in your chest throughout the story line. The ones that have you on the verge of tears, at every turn you are feeling that knot in you throat.
The emotional connection you feel for the characters and the battles that are forced to fight.
Hold On is just that.

It has those twists that keep you hooked and the angst that grips you. There is heated hot scenes that have you fanning you face and the ones that have you wishing for a Julian all of your own.

There is so much heartache in this story. Alexa (Lexie) has suffered through so much. Sometimes those things could have been avoided, but the poor girl and reasons to run. She was terrified and shut down every time things got rough. One amazing thing she had going for her was the group of friends that wouldn't let her fall. They pushed and pulled keeping her head above water, just barely at times, but above.
Julian (Sigh) That man is without a doubt the one for her. Yes he made mistakes and yes he sometimes chose wrong but he never let go. Lexie is the woman he wants and he refuses to give in and walk away.

This book had me angry and tearful...it left me feeling raw and emotional and Now all I want it book three. Now it does not leave you hanging on the edge but it definitely leaves you wanting more.
As for a Recommendation, yes, I would recommend this series. It has it all and more.
Love this series...bring on book three!
Profile Image for Eye Candy Bookstore.
571 reviews124 followers
June 23, 2014
Hilary Wynne has completely blown me away yet again! This series has quickly became a favorite of mine. I became emotionally attached to these characters in book 1 "Stay". This book was no different. In this book I cried a lot, got so frustrated and then said WTF. Hilary hits you with a twist you don't see coming.


Alexa learned keeping secrets was holding her back from really moving on. Once she lets Julian and her friends know all her secrets she is finally able to start to live again. Alexa and Julian are really starting to move forward with their relationship. Even though Alexa still has her bad days Julian still stays by her side. Alexa thinks she is able to finally let go of her past and have a future with Julian. That is until Julian's secret comes out. Julian was able to stay by Alexa through all her issues. Will Alexa be able to Hold On to Julian when she is faced with his secrets?

Reviewed by Amy Zec
Profile Image for Shannon Hewitt.
3 reviews1 follower
April 16, 2014
I absolutely LOVED Hold On!! I'm not the emotional type, but it had me on the edge of my seat with tears in my eyes multiple times. Great ups and downs & it was easy to relate to the characters. I loved the continuation of existing characters and the introduction of new ones. I was taken back, and surprised by some of the events...totally unexpected and not the typical storyline where you can guess what the next chapter will hold. I recommend starting it when you know you have a couple days to knock it out...I had every intention of pacing myself to a chapter a night and ended up reading it in 3 days! I am completely looking forward to #3. Hilary, you've done an amazing job and have found your niche! Thank-you!!
Profile Image for Ashlie L.
264 reviews12 followers
October 12, 2015
Hold On to your Seat for this one! Fantastic second book in this series. Alexa remains hard headed but she's starting to Crack! Julian still holds on to her for dear life when I really wanted to bitch slap some sense into her. They had ups and downs but Alexa is finally on board and is trying to get her shit together. Julian... oh Lord... Julian.... Seriously I lurve you! Book three is still being written but this one does not really end on a cliffy. Cannot wait till the next book!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dear Hilary...
Profile Image for Chrissy.
1,305 reviews83 followers
July 20, 2014
5+ Stars!

Wow, as soon as I finished reading Stay I knew I had to immediately grab Hold On and find out what happens to Julian and Alexa, and Hold On did NOT disappoint!

I fell in love with Julian and Alexa’s story in Stay, but fell deeper in love with them (and I truly did not think that could happen) after reading Hold On. In this installment of the series, we have very happy times with these two characters and other times where you are reduced to tears because you’re not sure how or if they can make it through what is going on.

This book was very emotional, at least for me, I laughed, I cried, I got extremely angry, I got irritated, I cried, and I fell in love all over again. It was like a roller coaster of emotions! As much as I loved Alexa in the first book there were a few times I felt like her friends and wanted to strangle her and tell her how stupid she was being, but until she has the clarity she needed she continues to be her crazy self and making decisions that she thinks are what is best and truly are not the best for anyone. I mean I understand why she felt the way she did, being put in the situation she was put in, is not easy for anyone, and it’s definitely something that not everyone can deal with, but my heart literally broke for Julian!

Julian’s love for Alexa is so strong it makes your heart warm just reading about him. Everyone deserves a man that loves them as much as Julian loves Alexa. The way he treats her, and tries to do everything to make her happy is simply amazing, and how he starts to open up to Alexa in this book made me so happy to see more of his life as well.

Alexa gets some much needed closure from her past in this book, and as unhappy as I was about the closure she got with Luke, I’m glad that that is over with (at least I hope it is). She also starts to let people back in, only to shut them out again, and once she gets that final piece of closure she is needing she starts to let everyone back in for real now, but is it too late for Julian?

My heart was racing trying to figure out what would happen with these two. I love them together and want them to stay together. I can not wait for book 3 in this series and will be religiously stalking Hilary Wynne’s pages until it is out. I now have this book to blame for a huge book hang over and wanting so much more of these characters.

If you’ve read Stay this book is a definite MUST READ, like drop everything and read Hold On now, you need to see how this relationship between these two characters plays out!

Profile Image for Twin Sisters Rockin' Book Reviews.
884 reviews92 followers
September 20, 2014
Overall Rating: 5 Rockin’ ★★★★★

Sometimes you can be so damaged that nothing can heal the destruction that has been caused your soul. But then sometimes if you are really blessed you will be given a second chance and that is what this installment of Alexa’s life is all about. While reading this book your emotions will run rampant with what ifs and why nots! The feelings that you experience as you read this story make an unforgettable impression on your heart and will not be easily forgotten.

It seems like every time Julian and Alexa work out their problems and start to heal something happens to take away their happiness. For every step forward they seem to reach a roadblock that requires them to take two back. Julian loves Alexa and wants to move forward in their relationship. He wants her to move in with him and when she is ready agree to marry him. Alexa is still uneasy with taking the next step but she knows that she loves Julian. She is finally ready to take the next step and put the past behind.

Everything is perfect and the future is looking bright. Julian introduces her to his family and she feels comfortable until his father arrives. Can Julian and Alexa overcome the triggers that his father’s attitude trip? Will they be able to move on to their HEA? This is a must read series for those that enjoy a great love story!

Hero –Julian Bauer: 5 stars
Heroine –Alexa Reed: 5 stars
Steam: 5 stars
Plot: 5 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes

Would I recommend this book: Yes! This is an amazing love story that will break your heart and at the same time it will lift you up with the beauty of true love! I could not put the book down until I read the last page! It was that kind of book.

Would I recommend this author: Yes! This author knows how to hold your attention and at the same time involve you the reader totally in the action taking place in the characters’ lives. I cannot wait for the next installment in the Alexa Reed Series!

***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***

Hold On
Hilary Wynne
Profile Image for Lorena  Garcia -- Brittany's Book Blog.
1,554 reviews44 followers
January 1, 2015
**Received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review**

WOW, I can't express how much I loved this book! I was in a turmoil reading the continuation of Alexa and Julian's story. So much happens to them in this second book that you don't know if you want to scream, laugh or cry.

Alexa, I just feel for her because it seems like nothing goes right in her world. She loses her first boyfriend by committing suicide, then she loses her best friend Luke when he confesses his real feelings for her. Just when she thinks things can't get any worse for her, her world comes crumbling down. Something so unexpected comes between them and even though she tries to be with him and stay with him, she just can't and she runs from Julian.

Julian gets news that really flips his life around and causes him to lose the love of his life after he had proposed to her. He's always been there for Alexa and expected her to be there for him, but she ran and wasn't strong enough to be there for him when he needed her.

You don't know if you want to feel sorry for Alexa or want to strangle her for not being there for Julian when he clearly stood by her side when she needed him. But we don't know how another person feels and we can't decide how they feel. But I was torn when they split up and Alexa couldn't find it in her heart to just go with the flow and be there for him when he needed her.

I loved the fact that in the end she realized she was making a big mistake and she knew she had to act fast otherwise she was going to lose Julian forever and she knew now that if she didn't put her hurt feelings aside she was going to lose him for good and she couldn't live without him. Love how it ended and now I need to read the next installment because more revelations will come out and we need to see if it's going to either make them or break them.

They're both very stubborn and strong people. But in the end ..... they always have a weakness for each other.

The way the author wrote this book, it really felt real -- this crap happens in real life but seriously while reading it, it felt like I was even watching a love story on TV!

I give this book 5 stars! I totally love Alexa and Julian and as damaged as they are they fit together ;)

Profile Image for Sherry.
591 reviews32 followers
August 14, 2016
Are you ready to hop back on this crazy train we call love in the form of Lexie and Julian?!?! I was so excited to read this book! Ms. Wynne literally broke my heart in this book and put it all back together. Plus, she left me with big 'ole butterflies in my stomach.

We all know Lexie likes to run, and boy did she run in the last book. This time around she's finally facing her demons and coming to terms with what she's been dealing with silently for the last year. This shoe-loving, drama-filled, heart-warming diva is a survivor! Julian is her rock along the way. You haven't met a man like Julian yet. That I can guarantee you.

Lexie and Julian's love is like wow! They burn the sheets like there is no tomorrow. The chemistry is like no other. Of course, Lexie has a hard time with viewing the future, but Julian is there to push her along. He wants her to be his forever.

Of course, there is always those crazy women that try and come out of the woodwork and break their relationship. Julian being himself, fights for Lexie. What does Lexie do? She runs. When she literally tries to run away to mend her broken heart, she starts to realize the error of her ways. Will it be too late? Will Julian forgive her?

Ms. Wynne left this book open ended. I'm guessing there may be a new book in the making. But, I've yet to stalk her Facebook page. Not many authors can pull off multiple books on the same couple, but Ms. Wynne knocked it out of the park. I look forward to seeing more of her work, and hopefully in the near future.
66 reviews2 followers
July 30, 2014
Once again, Hilary Wynne has managed to draw us in to the world of Alexa Reed and Julian Bauer. Hold On picks up where Book 1 - Stay, leaves off. Everything seems to be just fine for the couple, good even. Until something throws them off kilter. Things start to spiral out of control. Then, you have to ask yourself, is love really enough?

Hilary Wynne draws you in in Stay and keeps you there for Hold On. You fall in love with the characters from page one in book one, and only want the best for them. Your heart breaks for them, soars with them. You ride the gamut of emotions throughout Hold On, you could only imagine how Alexa would feel going through all of what she does. You feel so raw at some points that you actually have to put the book down and come back later - which isn't always a bad
thing. There is a lot of honesty in this book, which is also what Lexie needs. Wynne does an amazing job of drawing the reader in and keeping you with the story and not letting you go. The story of Alexa and Julian, however, isn't over. Their story doesn't wrap up neatly and fit into the typical love story box. Like life, their story goes on and has so much more to it.

The reader can so easily become part of the story and lose them self in the story line. Aside from Julian being a successful rich man (which isn't made that much of a big deal) this story line could actually happen to anyone - which makes it that much more believable.

The only problem I have at this point...is waiting until the next book comes out. :)
Profile Image for Sarah.
408 reviews50 followers
April 7, 2014
Abbr. version. Come visit me for the full review, plus author interview @ http://thelast2know.wordpress.com/201...

This was an exciting moment for me.. to be given the chance to be among the first people to read this book.. and after how much I loved the first, Stay, I was stoked to be back with Alexa, and the shoes, and the Julian (yep ‘the’ Julian, because there’s no other like him!) so soon.

I enjoyed the heck out of this book. The characters develop in interesting ways, especially Julian. He was a dream guy for me in Stay, but here he becomes so much more, because he shows how real he is. And for Alexa? It was good to see her move forward with her issues too, even if it meant having to backtrack one massive step first.

And oh, the shoes. I’m so glad the shoes still take pride of place within these pages. ;)

There’s so many moments that I loved in this book, and I especially enjoyed the changes of setting. We see more of Lexie’s workplace, and then there’s the little holiday getaway, Lexie’s family home.. As well as the usual haunts; the club/hotel, Julian’s place, Lexie’s apartment. Yeah! Digging the changes in scenery for sure!

A very healthy 4.5/5. It left me aching to read on. I need to know that eventually Julian and Alexa have the beautiful beach wedding I have imagined for them in my head! HA! I love being the pusher wedding planner.. xD
Profile Image for Victoria Rainey.
512 reviews7 followers
April 6, 2014
Hold On is the second book in the Alexa Reed series by Hilary Wynne. This book continues where the first book left off so it’s a good idea to read the first book in the series to understand everything.

Alexa Reed is still coping her all her dark secrets and surviving and just as independent as ever. No matter how difficult her personal life she manages to keep her work separate. Alexa is starting to work through her problems and issues. I do admire Alexa for eventually letting a select few know some of her dark secrets, even her therapist. Who I hope can help her better now she knows the root of most of Alexa’s issues.

Julian is still in Alexa’s life and fighting for space at times when Alexa’s demons get to much. I have to admire the man who loves her so much he knows what is best. I also like that while he is rich he lets her make her own choices and does not put much pressure on her. He knows she is not after his money.

The chemistry between Alexa and Julian is still explosive as ever. They make a great couple. My only grip with this book is it was hard to tell how much time had passed from when Alexa meet Julian to the present. Otherwise, this book was fabulously written book with interesting and engaging characters. I had a hard time putting this book down and I read this book in one sitting. I hope we see more of Alexa in the future.



**I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review

38 reviews9 followers
July 23, 2014
5 Emotionally Scarred Stars

Reviewed for Crazy Daisy Book Whore

This is one of those books that left me with a major book hangover. I cried and cursed. I even sat shaking my head repeating, "No, no, no," over and over again during a part in this book. I am emotionally scarred. Ugh!
I truly experienced so many emotions while reading this book. I was elated, content, furious, and moved. I connected with the emotions of the characters, once again, and could feel what they were feeling. I couldn't put it down until I was finished.
I fell even more in love with Julian in this book. He is a deeply emotional, fiercely loving man. He can be demanding and primitive, but he's also sensual and caring. Will one mistake, one huge mistake, lose him the love of his life?
I have to admit that I hated Lexie in this book. Hated. Her. She was even more self-absorbed and whiney than the first book if that is even possible. Then she makes the ultimate mistake. In the depths of depression and darkness, Lexie makes a monumental mistake. No, no, no! (How could you do that to me, Hilary?) When I don't think I can stand anymore of Lexie's darkness, her best friend Mari finally lays into her and gives her a dose of serious reality. I was so thrilled that someone finally said the things she needed to hear. The events that follow actually make me feel bad for her again, and I'm once again rooting for Lexie.
Another amazing rollercoaster from Hilary. I'm a big fan and can't wait for the next ride!
September 4, 2014
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Lexie is still struggling with her past, but is making a honest effort in trying to overcome it all and finally move on and live her life. Lexie suffers so much in this book, you can't help but feel it with her. Just when you think things are going good a situation comes up that devastates both her and Julian. She makes some bad choices. Julian is so in love with her and he tries his hardest to make her see what's right in front of her. He suffers alot in this book too, we see his vulnerable side and his determination. Will she hold on or will she make the biggest mistake of her life?

I felt every emotion with each of the characters. I'm really speechless, I really don't know how to explain how good this book is. It's one hell of a roller coaster ride, you get all of the emotional turmoil, you see the happiness and feel e overwhelming sadness. You see the determination in both of them and you hold out hope it all works out. There are some u answered questions and I'm truly excited to see what happens in the next book. I would definitely recommend this book and the first one, you will not be disappointed. It deserves more than five stars.

Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our fansite www.facebook.com/nerdgirl.ng
Profile Image for Ashley Jasper.
1,659 reviews21 followers
November 16, 2014
After reading Stay, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book and I was not disappointed.

We continue to get the story of Alexa and Julian. I figured that this would be a continuation of the happiness that they were feeling at the end of the first book. Boy was I wrong. Kudos to Alexa for getting stronger and know what she can and cannot handle. She was able to open up and share more with Julian, her roommates & Ellen. There is also some closure on the Brady situation. At the same time, I, again, wanted to jump in and knock some sense into her when the Julian bombshell dropped. There is so much heartache & hope in this book that at times you don't know what you want to happen.

Alexa's friends make a triumphant return in this book. I loved that the roommates finally got through to Alexa towards the end. There was also more Luke and Lexie in this story. I feel a little better about their situation but not completely. He loves her in his own way, which is selfish and selfless at the same time (you have to read to see what I mean).

In the end, Alexa gets herself together enough to see how crazy she is being and is there when Julian needs her. Will it be enough for them to get the happy ending they deserve? I hope so- can't wait to find out in the next installment of this roller coaster of a series.
Profile Image for Leslie Clifford.
72 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2014
This was book two in the Alexa Reed series and this story continues to get better and better. There was so much drama and suspense that once you start reading be prepared to stay until the end. Alexa is again dealing with the death of her ex-boyfriend and the fact that she has shared her secret with Julian. Alexa has decided that she wants to move forward with her life. She shares her secret with her friends and family and believes that her nightmare is over. You know it is not. Just when you think a little happiness will come to this couple we discover that Julian has a secret of his own. Julian has been Alexa’s rock to lean on. When Julian’s truth comes out will Alexa return the favor and help Julian or will she do what she always does by running away and shutting out all the people who care for her. This story went in so many different directions. One minute you’re crying over their situation and the next you’re throwing your e-reader across the room in a fit of rage. That’s the sign of a great book and that is what this is. I am holding on and hoping for book three possibly in the series.
Profile Image for Joelene.
101 reviews5 followers
June 5, 2014
We'll I have to say that I just loved this book! Love, love, loved it! I loved Alexa and I loved Julian and all their friends. I also loved that even though Alexa went dark and it was sad during quite a bit of it that it had an amazing story to it and it kept me wrapped up through most of the book. I admit the first couple chapters were a little slower for me, I still loved it! It has a great story that shows a lot of truth about the world and how crappy it can be and how there are a lot of people in the world that have similar issues or deal with things differently. It shows that Noone is perfect and it also shows just how strong love can be! And let's face it, people go dark and have issues of their own and that's the way life! I must say though that I am really sad it's over and I really want to read more of Alexa and Julian story because I loved the love they have and how strong it was. I will def be recommending this to my friends who read and I'll be reading more of her books!

:)
2 reviews
July 11, 2014
Hold On, the second book by Hilary Wynne in the Alexa Reed Series, jumps right into the aftermath of Alexa's revealing secret. Her startling admission affects all of those around her, and weave into a tangled web of coincidence, confrontation, heartbreak, and self-actualization.

As Alexa deals with moving on from her past into a new job and happy future, we learn more about Julian's emotional past. He is dealing with serious issues of his own, and that threatens the dreamy life Alexa is finally opening herself up to. Can she muster the strength to be there for Julian like he is for her, or will their whole world unravel?

The emotions these characters face are masterfully written so you feel everything they go through as if it was your own story. I became deeply involved with Julian and Alexa as I cheered their triumphs and held my breath with frustration.

Kudos to Hilary Wynne for giving us another spicy, toe-curling, heart-aching, hopeful roller coaster of a ride through Hold On. I am already in line for the the next one.

11 reviews1 follower
April 13, 2014
WOW, was very lucky to win a copy of Hold on from Hilary Wynne herself, though it was on my list to buy either way. I received my copy last night (and finished it this afternoon) and barely put it down except to sleep and cook dinner. The continuation of Lexie and Julian's story is fantastic, full of intense, passionate, heart warming and heart breaking moments (and shoes lots of shoes), on more than one occasion I found myself crying. I won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for those yet to read but this is a fantastic sequel and it didn't stagnate like other series sequels sometimes have a tendency to do. I am now eagerly awaiting the next part of the story and I apologise to Hilary now if I flood her facebook page :) xxx
Profile Image for Erin.
3 reviews9 followers
June 27, 2014
I didn't think it could get any better, but boy-o-boy was I wrong!! WOW I can't even describe the plethora of emotions I felt while reading the 2nd book! Laughing, crying, empathy - you name it and this book has it. I absolutely love Ms. Wynne's style of writing. It's so realistic.

The emotions between Alexa and Julian are so raw - you feel them in the pit of your stomach while reading. The bar has been set after reading this book and I don't know how another will satisfy - and I've read them all...50 shades, Crossfire, Temptation Series. But this series is like no other.

I can't wait for the 3rd book...please give us a hint as to when it will be out.
Profile Image for Maria York.
667 reviews11 followers
April 13, 2014
OMG The second book is just as good if not better then the first one. I am in book love with Julian Bauer and Alexa. Wow just so many different emotions that this poor girl had to endure are just crazy. Alexa is one strong broken woman who has had one hell of a year, but it continues and it's fair. I felt really bad for her, but Julian is just amazing. He's going through his own things and emotions run raw and wild. I am hoping that there is another book to come, because I would love to read more about these two amazing characters.
Profile Image for Amber Karas.
32 reviews3 followers
July 20, 2014
Hold On
This book is Part 2 in the Alexa Reed series (Book 1 was Stay) by Hilary Wynne. Alexa and Juilian’s emotional story continues as Alexa battles her way through drama in her life, that sometimes is very unwarranted.
The emotional journey was very tough to get through at times. There were times where I was laughing and celebrating with Alexa and Juilian, while there were other times where I was literally crying and frustrated with Alexa. I wanted to shake her to her senses.
I cannout WAIT for the next book! I give Hold on by Hilary Wynne a full 5 stars!
Profile Image for Marsha.
1,473 reviews17 followers
September 10, 2014
Hold On by Hilary Wynne is a really, really good read. I'm not going to lie, its a tough one, just stuffed full of emotions and difficult subjects. So much hits too close to home. I absolutely love Wynne's writing style and had trouble putting this down. Please, Hilary Wynne, give me more. I need to know where this goes. The story line is strong and consistent, even when the characters are not. Alexa and Julian are both so broken, I just want to hug then so much. But they are surrounded by supporting friends and are tough enough to make the hard choices. I LOVE this book!
Profile Image for Maria Lourdes Mendoza.
43 reviews3 followers
December 20, 2014
This is bloody hell an amazing book! No.1 on my list for the best books this year. I can give it 10 stars if I could but the option only has 5 so I'll just add the other 5 here. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is really an amazing book. good storyline, conflict with substance, characters with great personality and emotions are well justifiable.

Have you ever tried riding a roller coaster? Well, you will experience it here with a really good roller coaster of emotions.

It literally made me mad, in love, sad and happy. It's amazing!

Be ready to join Julian and Alexa fall in love. :)
Profile Image for Michelle.
552 reviews42 followers
May 4, 2015

Hold On the second book in the series left me drained, this book starts right from where Stay ends, Alexa & Julian start off in a very happy place, things move along very quickly and the start of a wonderful future develops. Until a very unexpected twist shatters the bubble leaving Julian & Alexa broken and lost.

Luke comes back into Alexa's life at the request of Julian, one which I think he will regret forever.

Hold On was well written made me smile, laugh, cry and wanting to drive straight into book 3 _ Promise Me.
1 review
April 24, 2014
I laughed, I cried, I felt sick to my stomach right along with Lexie. My poor husband, I couldn't put this down- read it on the way to work and on the way home, stayed up way too late on work nights, I couldn't get enough. I think this was better than Stay. Can't wait for book 3!!!!
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