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Don't Let Go

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Annalee wants a no-strings fling. Eric's all about the strings.

Twelve years ago, when Eric Sorenson's date dumped him right before the Senior Prom, his older sister’s best friend stepped in to save him from total humiliation. He never forgot Annalee or what she did for him that night…or the kiss they shared. He wants Annalee, and if he has his way, they'll take up where they left off. And this time, he won't let go.

After a messy divorce, Annalee's not looking forward to her high school reunion. She's shocked when Eric appears at her door ready to return the favor and play escort. Gone is the inexperienced boy with a severe stutter—he's a striking, confident man. The memory of the kiss they shared rekindles an attraction that never died, and she's been on her own for a year. Isn't she entitled to kick loose and have a let's-go-crazy night?

62 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 5, 2014

1 person is currently reading
120 people want to read

About the author

Nona Raines

18 books110 followers
Nona Raines became hooked on romances when she first picked up "The Flame and the Flower" by Kathleen Woodiwiss (and she's not telling how long ago that was). Romances may have changed since then, but her love for a good love story has not. She's been writing off and on for years, but it was only when she joined the Central New York Romance Writers Association that she finally gained the support and confidence she needed to complete a manuscript.

Nona lives in upstate New York with her many pets and is currently working on her next novel. A former librarian, she enjoys reading books of all genres and discussing them with others. She is thrilled to finally be able to call herself an author.

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Patty .
817 reviews375 followers
August 4, 2015
Originally posted on Bookish Wanderlove

Opening Lines
“The stupid squirrel was to blame.
Or maybe it was her own fault. She should have been paying attention while walking Bobo. Instead, Annalee was distracted, thinking about the evening ahead and how much she wasn’t looking forward to it.”

I was looking for something quick to read that I had good and solid romance to it and luckily I found that with Don't Let Go. It's only 62 pages so I read it quickly in one sitting, and then went back to re-read it again. This had a strong start that had me giggling at Bobo and Annalee, and we don't have to wait long to see Eric. The minute Eric and Annalee interact you can just tell there is an attraction between them, so I was rooting for Eric since the 3rd page!

Nona Raines managed to pack a lot of information into this little thing, I didn't feel overwhelmed but there were some moments I wanted more detail about. I liked every single character, well...minus Denny, he was such a jerk and he didn't deserve her! She was minor but I think Dee was one of my favourite characters. Her little commentary and how she's able to really see through Annalee and understand how she feelings made me want to snatch her up and take her as my own best friend. I loved how protective Eric was of Annalee, you can easily see how much he really cares about her. It was just all so cute!

What kept Don't Let Go from getting 5 stars?

I know, I know. It's a novella Patty, get over it. But I just have to say this is the only reason why Don't Let Go didn't get 5 stars! It was way to short and had my mind trying to piece things together on my own. I would have looked to see Annalee and Eric's relationship really blossom, I wanted a more in-depth flash back to Eric's high school prom and more leading up to that night. I want more information how his history of feelings for her, what Annalee's feelings were the night of his high school prom. What was going through their minds after that kiss. And of course Eric's sister and Annalee's best friend Dee, she clearly has been observing them for awhile, why didn't she try to throw them together sooner?! Either way, this was still a really great read!

Overall, I really enjoyed Don't Let Go! I've re-read it more than 6 times, I'm not even kidding. It's a cute light read that I just can't get enough of. Although I really wish this was a full novel, especially since it had the potential I will most defiantly be keeping an eye out for anything Nona Raines publishes next! Would I recommend Don't Let Go? Yes, if you want a cute romance then pick this up! Just remember it's a novella.
38 reviews13 followers
November 3, 2014
3.5 Stars

*ARC Review for Crazy Daisy Book Whore* by Megan

This is a sweet, second-chance love story about Annalee and Eric. Annalee is recently divorced from her husband, who cheated on her. She was dreading attending her high school reunion knowing that her ex would be there. While walking her neighbor's dog through the park, Annalee runs into her best friend's younger brother, and former crush, Eric. He has grown into a kind, handsome man, who still makes her heart beat a little faster. Eric, who has been in love with Annalee since she kissed him after her prom, is fighting his own feelings trying not to scare her off.

Annalee rescued Eric from being along on his prom night. Will Eric's repayment of that gesture, by taking Annalee to her reunion, work in his favor? Will Annalee see Eric as more than her friend's brother, or will the actions of that night ruin everything?

This was a quick read with sweet characters and a story that left me wanting to know more about these characters.

Profile Image for Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog.
3,906 reviews117 followers
November 14, 2014
4 Stars!

I liked this short story. It was a sweet second chance romance that is years in the making.

This is Eric and Annalee's story. Eric and Annalee have a past. The last time they saw each other, Annalee saved the night for Eric and they shared a scorching kiss. Now at her high school reunion, the last person she expects to see is Eric or for him to help her out like she did all those years ago. Can these two take a chance on each other? Throw in drama, a high school reunion, and you get one crazy ride to a happy ending.

While this was short, I did like Eric and Annalee together. This book was steamy and seriously sweet. I loved Eric. Ah who wouldn't adore a sweet, sexy, generous, and kind man....!

I recommend this if you like a quick, sweet, sexy read!

Review Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,723 reviews39 followers
November 6, 2014
"I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads."

This lovely, quick read is perfect for a relaxing evening. It is sweet, passionate and a second chance that both characters deserve. There is a back story, some angst and an oversized dog, all thrown in with a high school reunion, foolish ex-husband, a pregnant best friend, and even the swing shown on the front cover - amazing how much Ms Raines can fit into a novella! !


Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Angela Goodrich.
1,608 reviews101 followers
November 11, 2014
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Don’t Let Go is a quick read about a second chance at romance. Annalee is recently divorced and is dreading going to her high school reunion where she knows she’ll be forced to endure her ex-husband and his shiny new wife. Knowing that her best friend Dee will be there and has her back isn’t enough because face it, who wants to feel like the third wheel. But Annalee is a feisty one, refusing to give the gossips more fodder and tries to prepare herself mentally for the night – despite the dog’s attempts to drag her through the mud … literally (lol).

The only bright spot of the day is running into Dee’s kid brother Eric. The same Eric she accompanied to his senior prom when his date bailed at the last minute. The same Eric who made her pulse race when that night ended in a kiss. The same Eric who is now all grown up 12 years later and who is so hot he makes her think dirty thoughts … yummy dirty thoughts. The same Eric who decides it’s time to return the favor and shows up unannounced at her door that evening to accompany her to her reunion. Eric does this not out of obligation, but because he’s spent the last 12 years comparing every woman to her and they’ve all fell short because they weren’t Annalee.

Eric was an absolute dream date. I enjoyed how he made Annalee feel special and cared for just through his regular actions. Even better was how he accepted her apology later in the book, acknowledging that while he’d known how he felt for her for over a decade, she didn’t and he wasn’t entirely fair about the situation. While the renewal of their friendship and its transition to something more was sweet, the scene outside during the reunion with just the two of them was a steamy bit of foreplay that Eric more than delivered on its promise later that evening. While there were issues that both Eric and Annalee had to work on (don’t want to spoil it for you), I enjoyed the way in which they arrived at their resolution. Although there are parts of the story I would love to have seen developed further, in the format of a novella Ms. Raines has done a good job of moving the story forward without getting bogged down in unnecessary details. Don’t Let Go is a well-written novella and was a solid good read for me. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Raines work.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Jody.
2,085 reviews59 followers
November 12, 2014
Those looking for a sweet yet sensual interlude will find this tale of star-crossed lovers a delightfully entertaining read. With a nicely paced storyline, and an unrequited connection between the two main characters that keeps them from their HEA, readers quickly become fully immersed in this endearing and steamy read. Theirs is an emotional journey full of misunderstandings and fear that keeps you guessing until the very end in a heartwarming and much deserved conclusion.

Annalee is a likable older woman dealing with the fall-out from her divorce to the town's Golden Boy. She thinks she's over the pain but being around him brings out her insecurities and has her fearing what the sweet and supportive Eric offers her. Annalee was easy to relate to with fears that are believable but the fears are holding her back from someone who truly appreciates her. Eric is her best friend's brother and he's loved her for over a decade. Their romantic connection at his Prom profoundly affected both of them but fate kept them apart. He never forgot about her and is back to finally claim her until fate intervenes again. Eric suffered from severe stuttering as a child but Annalee never saw him as weak. Even then she knew he was special as he treated her with care and as a true gentleman. He's sacrificed his own happiness for her time and again while waiting for her which endeared him to me and showed how in love with her he is.

This was a heartwarming story about fate and grasping happiness when it's offered. It may be short on word count but it's a fully fleshed-out story with a likable main couple whose relationship puts readers through the emotional wringer but in a very satisfying way. Readers looking for a little afternoon delight will find this the perfect emotional roller coaster ride!
Profile Image for Sharon Kallenberger Marzola.
1,330 reviews19 followers
November 15, 2014
This is a fun quick read that I enjoyed completely. Don’t Let Go is a short novella about a divorcee, Annalee and her best friend’s brother Eric, who are given a second chance to find love.

The story is well written. The characters are developed in a realistic way. In fact, I love the characters and the way they evolve as the story unfolds. Annalee gets stronger and really grows as the story progresses. Eric is the perfect male love interest. He is easy on the eyes with a kind heart and a fun personality and he has loved Annalee for a long time. Eric wants her now but he isn’t sure if this is their time yet.

There is a best friend, Dee, also Eric’s sister. Dee wants her Annalee to be happy but that isn’t going to happen until she can resolve her issues with her ex-husband. Finally we have a shitty ex-husband that we have to hate. He is a major sleaze and needs to be put in his place.

The book centers on a class reunion and Annalee’s trepidation in attending. She doesn’t want to interact with her ex; however, the gossip that would spread around her small town if she doesn’t attend is just as bad. Eric comes to her rescue and is her date for the night.

There are a lot of mixed messages and missed opportunities that weave together to make a great story.

The book is short but there is a little of everything that a good romance novel needs packed into these 60 pages. Reading Don’t Let Gois a great way to spend your reading time.
Profile Image for books are life .
Author 54 books1,811 followers
November 13, 2014
Check out more of my reviews on my blog http://gemmareadstoomuchforittomenorm...

3.5 stars

Don’t Let Go is the first book I have read by this author, I was lucky enough to have been given a copy in exchange for an honest review so here goes....

This is quite a traditional romance and really reminded me of the romances I used to steal off my mom as a kid.

This is more of a novella length story but it manages to not try to fit in too much info into a short amount of words.

I liked both Annalee and Eric but I don’t feel like I particularly engaged with either of them.
This whole story has quite a classy, grown up feel to it but I missed a bit of silliness.

I liked the idea that Eric had a crush on Annalee since high school but I needed a bit more passion from them.

They were a sweet couple but I didn’t feel the passion and intensity between them that I had hoped for.

As daft as this may sound I’m in my thirties and I still felt like I was reading my mom’s book... I just didn’t relate to the story.

My mom would enjoy this book, so would my mother in law and don’t get me wrong its a nice easy read perfect for a night in front of the fire with a glass of wine.

To be fair this is a sweet book, it’s well written and I’m glad it’s got a happily ever after but it just didn’t float my boat 3.5 stars.
Profile Image for Romancing the Book.
4,420 reviews221 followers
February 1, 2016
Reviewed by Shyla
Book provided by the author for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book

Don’t Let Go is a story about second chances, survival, and hope. Annalee’s life is turned upside down with her unexpected divorcee. Hurt, embarrassed, and lost, she pieces her life back together. I enjoyed seeing her regain her footing, and forge forward. It was a testament to what I feel is a woman’s strength. I could feel the pain with her as she was forced with wagging tongues in the small town, and the remarriage and pregnancy that came from her husbands’ affair. She finds a second shot at love where she least expects, with her best friend’s younger brother, Eric.

Eric was easy to like. Straightforward, attractive, and thoughtful he looked at Annalee like she hung the moon. What women doesn’t love that? After spending his youth haunted by a stutter he’s grown into a man who cares about the feeling of others. I loved his boy next door vibe, and the way he showed Anna that he cared. I was afraid his stubbornness would prevent them from getting together, but I thought that made him all the more human.

Full of humor, drama, and sensuality, Don’t Let Go is an awesome quick read.
Profile Image for Autumn.
908 reviews10 followers
December 21, 2014
Annalee is putting on a brave face. After a difficult divorce, she’s still just trying to find her way. Until one afternoon, she runs into the one man who she never thought she would see again – Eric Sorenson.

Eric has always held a special place in her memory. He’s her best friend’s younger brother who was painfully shy and awkward because he stuttered, but she was always able to see beyond that. So when his date for the Senior Prom backs out, Annalee steps in and the kiss that they share on that magical night still haunts her.

Now he’s back and wants to escort her to her dreaded High School reunion where she will have to face her ex and his new trophy wife. But Eric wants more from Annalee than just one night. He’s asking for forever.

Don’t Let Go is the first book that I’ve read by Nona Raines. I loved it so much that I immediately downloaded Read To Me when it was done! Even though it was short, it didn’t seem rushed or forced. It was a sweet and oh so sexy tale of two people who are truly meant to be together. It’s tenderly told and will leave you longing for more…
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,288 reviews73 followers
November 10, 2014
Don't Let Go by Nona Raines is a ridiculously sweet short story romance. It's a snippet in the lives of Annalee and Eric, and it's just perfect.

It's Annalee's high school reunion and she's freshly divorced, doubting every choice she's made in her life and Eric shows up in town to rescue her just like she rescued him at his Prom years ago. Eric has been in love with Annalee since that memorable prom night and Annalee is just clueless. She is amazed at the man he's grown into but can't quite believe his interest in her, until he shows up at her soorstep that evening.

If you are looking for a sweet, slightly steamy romance this is a fantastic read. There is enough story that you don't feel starved for information about the characters but it is still a quick read. Loved it!
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,380 reviews119 followers
November 23, 2014
~~~Dee's Review~~~

Loved this love story. It is perfect in every way.

Annalie rescued Eric years ago from humiliation when his senior prom date dumped him at the last minute. Annalie surprised him by showing up at his door insisting she was going to be his date. Eric fell in love with her that night but she was a college girl and later married.

Now the tables are turned. Annalie is dressing for her 15 year high school reunion and she is dreading it because her ex husband will be there with his new wife. She hates the humiliation of the whole thing. Surprisingly, Eric shows up unannounced at her door insisting he is her date for the reunion.

Lovely story. Written so well that it made my heart ache and my eyes water. I received this book in exchange for an honest review. It deserves all five stars.

*ARC provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kristen Johnson.
1,172 reviews48 followers
November 14, 2014
Don't let Go was a different take on the whole friends to lovers, unrequeited love twist. This time, it was the guy who'd been in love for half his life. I enjoyed watching the fallout of letting those feelings out.

Annalee has been dealing with her divorce for a while, but her form of dealing is just not moving on at all. She's holding on to the pain and the hurt, and not allowing herself a chance to find someone else.

Eric shows up unexpectedly and and decides its now or never and he's going to state his feelings and hope for the best.

Like everything, there is a complication or two, but in the end, both Eric and Annalee work it out and figure out that they want to be together.

Don't let go is a sweet and short tale of romance between friends and a long time love finally coming out. I enjoyed this glimpse into Annalee and Eric's life together.

*ARC given for honest review*
Profile Image for Shaz X.
401 reviews17 followers
October 30, 2014
Review also found at Sharon's Book Nook! Blog

A copy of this book was provided by the author in return for an honest review

I thoroughly enjoyed this quick read from Nona Raines. It had humour, drama, lust, love, a sleazy ex-husband, loveable best friend and an "all grown up" very sexy old flame.

Nona's writing style is great and her characters are fabulous. I enjoyed that they made fools of themselves and were involved in very real situations that were easy to relate to. These people weren't perfect and I like that in a book.

I read this in one sitting as it's only 62 pages but I would gladly read this again and again I loved it that much. I found it hard to start my next books after this one as it stuck with me and I suggest you give it a try.

Fabulous 5 stars!
Profile Image for Heather in FL.
2,053 reviews
December 2, 2015
This was a sweet best-friend's-brother story, though maybe it was a bit sweeter because of what she'd meant to him all these years. He basically fell in love with her on his prom night, when she treated him like a guy, and not the stuttering nerd others viewed him as. But she ended up marrying her high school sweetheart, then getting divorced, and she feels like she has something to prove surrounding the divorce. That she's not broken, that she doesn't need her ex, etc. But it's time for a reunion, and as she did for his prom, he swooped in and escorted her to her reunion. And then some. Only the night didn't end for anyone like it should have. But they get a second (third?) chance and this time, they make the best of it. Super sweet and somewhat steamy. I just wish it was a little bit longer!
Profile Image for Dee.
2,000 reviews100 followers
October 8, 2014
4.5 stars

What a fabulous story. I loved all the characters, well except for Annalee's douche-bag of an ex! Bobo was a favorite and had me smiling from the get go. Thom and Dee were great together and everyone needs a bestie like Dee :)

The reunion was a great, something I would dread going to! And the story that unfolded from that was wonderful.

What I loved the most was the table being turned and a male having to worry if he had been used or not, not the typical female scenario.


ARC received in exchange for an honest review
*which did not influence the high praise I have given this story. I genuinely loved it!
Profile Image for Kim.
828 reviews3 followers
October 25, 2014
Great story! Very quick read. I really enjoyed Nona Raines Don't Let Go. To see Annalee hurt by her now ex husband Denny and run into her best friend Dee's brother Eric while walking Bobo the dog. Even though Annalee had feelings for Eric she thought it was wrong cause he was her best friend's LITTLE BROTHER. Well big deal cause you know what you can't help who you fall in love with :) I think Nona did a great job telling the story. I really would have love to read more about Eric and Annalee but that's okay sometimes the endings are great the way they are or are they? If looking for a fast read this is one for you.
Profile Image for Jennifer Schultheis.
1,316 reviews6 followers
November 13, 2014
Don't Let Go is a quick read that will have you so enthralled in the storyline, that you fail to notice anything going on around you. I loved the characters! Annalee and Eric were the type of characters that you would love to have as friends. Annalee rescued Eric years ago, when his date stood him up for prom. Annalee was the older girl who was best friends with his sister. Eric has never forgotten that night and when Annalee comes back into town for a reunion, it's his turn to rescue her. Nona Raines kept me entertained with this little gem and I can't wait to check out more from this author!
Profile Image for Nikki Lynn Vale.
35 reviews
November 7, 2014
I loved this. Nona has way with her writing her scenes are so real. I feel like “yup, I saw that” or “hey, that happened to me,” or even better, “that was amazing and maybe even possible, where can I find it.” LOL

Annalee and Eric’s story is really sweet. First love, second chances and poor timing. Story has a fast pace, but like I said earlier it all seems possible. Love Annalee.

“Who’d believe she could be such a straight up hussy? She loved it”

Sweet, sexy, steamy I couldn’t put it down. Fantastic afternoon and hot chocolate read
Profile Image for Crystal.
495 reviews29 followers
November 10, 2014
This was a good second chance love story all about timing and being ready to take a leap of faith. Annalee is a divorced woman who thinks she has dealt with her divorce and left it in the past. When Eric, her best friends brother, comes into town in time to take her to her class reunion and wants so much more she is afraid. Eric has loved her for years and Annalee definitely has feelings for him. Is the timing finally going to be right?

I enjoyed this novella and would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick read with a sweet romance.

Profile Image for Karen Harper.
383 reviews
November 11, 2014
I’ll be honest - I’m not fond of stand-alone novellas. I think it’s because I don’t have enough time to get to ‘know’ the characters. Don’t Let Go is different. I loved the story, but I wanted it to be longer.
This is a story of revenge but also love. It’s also a good one. I’m a teacher so I immediately felt an affinity with the main character, Annalee. I fell in love with Eric. I finished Don’t Let Go with a smile on my face but I still wish that this book was longer.
I gave Don’t Let It Go 4 stars.
Profile Image for Erica.
1,311 reviews32 followers
November 10, 2014
4 stars

Don't Let Go is a quick, sweet read.
Annalee & Eric's story is one of reconnecting and second chances.
You get just enough back story that the story flows well from the first page to the last. The characters are loveable and realistic.
Being a novella it moves quickly to get the whole story into a short story but the author did an amazing job of fitting so much into this book, I couldn't have asked for more!
Profile Image for Badass Bloggettes.
742 reviews44 followers
January 31, 2015
A good old love story. You will like like it.

All in all I recommend this book, and the entire series. It is a great romantic thriller.
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