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Moving the Chains #5
Holding
Every rule has an exception.
Tori Russo’s job is very simple—be a pretty distraction for a professional football player with a bad attitude. Her only problem? She’d rather gain some actual marketing experience during her internship than be someone’s arm candy for photo ops. Growing up with a Navy captain father and five older, overprotective brothers, she’s never been allowed to stand on her own two feet. She’s going to prove to them she has what it takes to be an independent adult. Even if it means giving in and faking a relationship with one of the NFL’s most eligible bachelors. Tori doesn’t want to sleep her way to the top, but her client is impossible to resist. If she can keep her heart out of the game, she can walk away with her head held high.
Mike Mitchell’s life shouldn’t be this complicated. All he wants is to play football and earn a good living for his family, but his life off the field is riddled with chaos. After a long-standing feud with an old friend-turned-rival is caught on camera, he’s assigned a PR rep by his team. His options are limited—play nice with the sweet as peaches redhead or be benched. With his paycheck and his ability to provide for his mom and sisters on the line, he’s convinced he can juggle one more ball. His only problem? He’s becoming way too attached to this gorgeous distraction. The friend zone is collapsing day by day. If he can’t avoid her temptation, then he’s going to have to find a different way to play by the rules.
Tori Russo’s job is very simple—be a pretty distraction for a professional football player with a bad attitude. Her only problem? She’d rather gain some actual marketing experience during her internship than be someone’s arm candy for photo ops. Growing up with a Navy captain father and five older, overprotective brothers, she’s never been allowed to stand on her own two feet. She’s going to prove to them she has what it takes to be an independent adult. Even if it means giving in and faking a relationship with one of the NFL’s most eligible bachelors. Tori doesn’t want to sleep her way to the top, but her client is impossible to resist. If she can keep her heart out of the game, she can walk away with her head held high.
Mike Mitchell’s life shouldn’t be this complicated. All he wants is to play football and earn a good living for his family, but his life off the field is riddled with chaos. After a long-standing feud with an old friend-turned-rival is caught on camera, he’s assigned a PR rep by his team. His options are limited—play nice with the sweet as peaches redhead or be benched. With his paycheck and his ability to provide for his mom and sisters on the line, he’s convinced he can juggle one more ball. His only problem? He’s becoming way too attached to this gorgeous distraction. The friend zone is collapsing day by day. If he can’t avoid her temptation, then he’s going to have to find a different way to play by the rules.
310 pages, Paperback
Published March 8, 2021
38 people are currently reading
937 people want to read
About the author
Kata Čuić
21 books471 followersKata Čuić lives in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and writes romance stories with a dash of humor, a dollop of spice, and a heaping helping of heart. With a background in Linguistics and a minor in Religious Studies, her writing style marries lit fic with delicious tropes. He falls first and harder, anyone?
From angst-filled new adult series to standalone rom-coms, and even a touch of paranormal, Kata's diverse storytelling offers something for every romance reader palate. Because she gets bored writing the same things all the time, okay?
When she's not writing, Kata emotionally eats to cope with the endless news cycle, binge reads series because sleep is for the weak, and probably drinks too much whiskey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 6, 2021
I picked this book for three reasons : I can’t resist to sport romance and it was described as a stand-alone no need to read other books in the serie and is a fake marriage relationship one
Even though the writing stile is good i had to suffer with timeline and side characters stories. Backgrounds I did not understood
I should have read eve and rob story first
The prologue did not fit/macht the story
There is indeed good material here with a more accurate d’editing this can be a nice book
Not as it is now
2 stars for potential
just reviewed Holding by Kata Čuić. #Holding #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]
Even though the writing stile is good i had to suffer with timeline and side characters stories. Backgrounds I did not understood
I should have read eve and rob story first
The prologue did not fit/macht the story
There is indeed good material here with a more accurate d’editing this can be a nice book
Not as it is now
2 stars for potential
just reviewed Holding by Kata Čuić. #Holding #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]
February 27, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to the author for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
This book confused me so much. It took me a while to decide how much to rate this, but I've decided to settle on 2.5 stars.
There were things I liked about this like the characters, which made this an enjoyable read, overall.
I did have some problems with it tho. The premiss of the book didn't make sense (there were less confusing and more realistic way of doing a fake relationship sports romance); the fact that this was advertised as part of a series, but readable as a standalone was a problem as well, because it didn't provide enough context of the events of the past books, which turned the plot hard to follow at times; and finally the passing of time wasn't explicit as well - there were times where I didn't know if a year or a week had passed.
I will probably be reading Alex's book tho.
Thank you to the author for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
This book confused me so much. It took me a while to decide how much to rate this, but I've decided to settle on 2.5 stars.
There were things I liked about this like the characters, which made this an enjoyable read, overall.
I did have some problems with it tho. The premiss of the book didn't make sense (there were less confusing and more realistic way of doing a fake relationship sports romance); the fact that this was advertised as part of a series, but readable as a standalone was a problem as well, because it didn't provide enough context of the events of the past books, which turned the plot hard to follow at times; and finally the passing of time wasn't explicit as well - there were times where I didn't know if a year or a week had passed.
I will probably be reading Alex's book tho.
March 4, 2021
4.5 Stars for Holding ( Moving the Chains #5)
This is Tori Russo and Mike Michell’s journey, it’s a captivating sports romance with a fair few twists and turns and bumps in the road before this couple find the place they belong.
Tori has grown up with five older, overprotective brothers and a Navy Captain father but she is determined to show her family and friends she can build a future on her own. When she finds herself working her internship as a market assistant representing one of the NFL’s eligible bachelor’s she finds herself in all sorts of trouble. How can she resist what’s on offer from this swoon worthy hero....
On the face of it Mike’s life should be easy, he only wants to play football, support his family and enjoy life but when he has a run in with an old friend turned enemy, the team owner decides he needs a PR rep by his side and that’s where Tori comes in.....
The attraction is instant, the chemistry sizzling and the characters are adorable, in face this book has a lot going for especially if you ate a sports romance fan. I loved being part of Tori and Mike’s journey, even if at times I wanted to throttle the pair of them. Great addition to the series and looking forward to what’s next from this talented author.
This is Tori Russo and Mike Michell’s journey, it’s a captivating sports romance with a fair few twists and turns and bumps in the road before this couple find the place they belong.
Tori has grown up with five older, overprotective brothers and a Navy Captain father but she is determined to show her family and friends she can build a future on her own. When she finds herself working her internship as a market assistant representing one of the NFL’s eligible bachelor’s she finds herself in all sorts of trouble. How can she resist what’s on offer from this swoon worthy hero....
On the face of it Mike’s life should be easy, he only wants to play football, support his family and enjoy life but when he has a run in with an old friend turned enemy, the team owner decides he needs a PR rep by his side and that’s where Tori comes in.....
The attraction is instant, the chemistry sizzling and the characters are adorable, in face this book has a lot going for especially if you ate a sports romance fan. I loved being part of Tori and Mike’s journey, even if at times I wanted to throttle the pair of them. Great addition to the series and looking forward to what’s next from this talented author.
March 7, 2021
This is the 5th book in this amazing series and is Mike and Tori’s journey. Mike is an NFL player and one of the most eligible bachelors in football, and when his image is tarnished, he need help to redeem himself. Tori has a Navy captain dad, and 5 overprotective brothers, and she is on a mission to prove to them and herself that she is perfectly capable of standing on her own two feet, and she is the PR rep assigned to help Mike improve his image. There is an instant connection between these two and the chemistry is sizzling. This is a well written story which is entertaining, and with twists, family, friendships, and love. I was completely enthralled throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
March 2, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley for a arc copy for a honest review.
This is my first book by Kata Čuić now I have to go back and read the rest of the series a 4 star read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Happy Reading
Lisa
This is my first book by Kata Čuić now I have to go back and read the rest of the series a 4 star read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Happy Reading
Lisa
March 8, 2021
This story was so good. I devoured these chsraters and want more of them. A great read
March 8, 2021
Blessed to receive an ARC for this book and I LOVE IT! Took a bit for the characters to speak to Kata, but it was definitely worth the wait. Nothing in their lives is ever smooth so why would you expect any of them to fall in love in a normal smooth and uncomplicated way? Love Tori and love how strong of a person she is even when things are crushing in on her from all sides. Love how truly good Mike is and how much you get to see that goodness shine in this book. Lots of bumps in the road, but so worth the journey. Definitely a wonderful addition to the series!
January 27, 2025
4 Star Review Holding (Moving The Chains #5) by Kata Cuic
Kata Cuic is a relatively new author to me. Holding was an entertaining read that ticked a lot of boxes for me. From the first chapter to the last I was invested in Mike Mitchell and Tori Russo’s story.
Tori is a woman on a mission, she wants to show her over protective family that she can make it on her own. However, being tasked to look after bad boy NFL player Mike isn’t quite what she had in mind.
There is so much more to Mike that what appears on the surface. He is a kind, caring,loyal, swoon worthy man who is focused on providing for his mother and sisters. With that in the forefront of his mind, he knows he has to work with Tori to improve his image. I liked how strong and determined Tori was to succeed, I admired that.
The chemistry between them is impossible to ignore but what happens when feelings become involved? These two made a cute couple and and I was cheering for them to make a go of it.
Holding was a well written, romantic, love story and one I really enjoyed.
Kata Cuic is a relatively new author to me. Holding was an entertaining read that ticked a lot of boxes for me. From the first chapter to the last I was invested in Mike Mitchell and Tori Russo’s story.
Tori is a woman on a mission, she wants to show her over protective family that she can make it on her own. However, being tasked to look after bad boy NFL player Mike isn’t quite what she had in mind.
There is so much more to Mike that what appears on the surface. He is a kind, caring,loyal, swoon worthy man who is focused on providing for his mother and sisters. With that in the forefront of his mind, he knows he has to work with Tori to improve his image. I liked how strong and determined Tori was to succeed, I admired that.
The chemistry between them is impossible to ignore but what happens when feelings become involved? These two made a cute couple and and I was cheering for them to make a go of it.
Holding was a well written, romantic, love story and one I really enjoyed.
March 7, 2021
this is a DNF, got to 17% and had to bail.
I can't finish this. IT says it is a standalone, that is not true. The prologue makes not sense. I don't understand why a fight between Mike and Alex makes his teammates think he is gay? friends fight. we have one scene where Mike goes to Tori's apartment and they are talking about his image, then she s going home with him for a family wedding? Why? if that is to confusing enough, then she is drunk and throwing up, I assume they are in a hotel? then she stands up and starts taking her clothes off?!?!?! yeah, no just no
I can't finish this. IT says it is a standalone, that is not true. The prologue makes not sense. I don't understand why a fight between Mike and Alex makes his teammates think he is gay? friends fight. we have one scene where Mike goes to Tori's apartment and they are talking about his image, then she s going home with him for a family wedding? Why? if that is to confusing enough, then she is drunk and throwing up, I assume they are in a hotel? then she stands up and starts taking her clothes off?!?!?! yeah, no just no
January 19, 2024
This book was tough to get through. There was plot points that I didn’t understand because it was book 5 and that’s on me but if it’s meant to be read as a stand-alone book as well there shouldn’t be all this overlapping plot that doesn’t make sense to the readers. I couldn’t finish the book. That’s how hard it was to get through. It didn’t hold my attention long enough for all that.
March 7, 2021
Complex friends-to-lovers romance
This story spans a couple professional football seasons as Mike and Tori's slow-burn romance develops as an extension of her work for him as his PR rep. Their working relationship soon involves her having to pose as his girlfriend for the publicity boost, which of course gradually grows into a real relationship.
As a standalone romance, this book covers their initial meeting all the way to their HEA. However, it apparently builds on the events of the earlier four-book series that charts Rob and Evie's romance in which Mike is a close friend of Evie's and has had his life greatly shaped by those prior events. I wish that the author had taken the time to have Mike explain his history with Rob, Evie, and Alex to Tori on page, rather than just have her acknowledge that he did explain it all to her at some point. Not having read the previous books, this approach leaves holes of indeterminate size in our understanding of Mike's motivations.
Still, the focus is on Mike and Tori, and their romance is sweet, steamy, tender, and heartwarming. I loved how they built a solid foundation of trust right from the beginning, and how that allowed them to feel safe in revealing more and more of their secret selves to each other. They have a terrific HEA that also gives hints into a future book focusing on Alex's relationship with Amira.
If you've already read the first four books, I've no doubt you'll be right at home with this one and will not want to miss Mike's well-deserved HEA. If you're new to the series, be prepared to not quite understand his relationship with his high school friends, but be assured that that history doesn't really get in the way of his moving forward with Tori. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This story spans a couple professional football seasons as Mike and Tori's slow-burn romance develops as an extension of her work for him as his PR rep. Their working relationship soon involves her having to pose as his girlfriend for the publicity boost, which of course gradually grows into a real relationship.
As a standalone romance, this book covers their initial meeting all the way to their HEA. However, it apparently builds on the events of the earlier four-book series that charts Rob and Evie's romance in which Mike is a close friend of Evie's and has had his life greatly shaped by those prior events. I wish that the author had taken the time to have Mike explain his history with Rob, Evie, and Alex to Tori on page, rather than just have her acknowledge that he did explain it all to her at some point. Not having read the previous books, this approach leaves holes of indeterminate size in our understanding of Mike's motivations.
Still, the focus is on Mike and Tori, and their romance is sweet, steamy, tender, and heartwarming. I loved how they built a solid foundation of trust right from the beginning, and how that allowed them to feel safe in revealing more and more of their secret selves to each other. They have a terrific HEA that also gives hints into a future book focusing on Alex's relationship with Amira.
If you've already read the first four books, I've no doubt you'll be right at home with this one and will not want to miss Mike's well-deserved HEA. If you're new to the series, be prepared to not quite understand his relationship with his high school friends, but be assured that that history doesn't really get in the way of his moving forward with Tori. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 25, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Kata Cuic for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
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Question of the Day: Do you always read series in order? I’ve been known to grab a book and devour it without realizing it’s an installment in a series. This is one of those books that I would NOT recommend doing that with! To be fair, the author did give a warning that this could be read as a standalone but would be much more enjoyable and understandable read as a series installment. So any issues I have with this are being taken with a grain of salt because I didn’t follow the rules. That all being said, I was conflicted on how to rate this one. Follow up QOTD: What was the last book that left you unsure of how you felt about it?
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This book surprised me. When I hear sports romance, I usually think light and fun. I wasn’t expecting so much depth and story packed into a sports romance. This is not your typical light sports romance. Holding has layers worth exploring. The chemistry between PR intern Tori and NFL player Mike is capital h HOT. There were a few times that chemistry surprised me. I’m going to leave that vague but if you know, you know. Not judgement, I was just really surprised it felt like it came out of nowhere.
Which leads me to the timeline of this book. I didn’t realize I should be paying that close attention to the little hints of time because about halfway through the book we’re a year in out of nowhere. Around 70% I had pretty much no clue what the timeline was and I didn’t understand a good chunk of the plot. BUT this is where I remind you, this is book #5 (FIVE!!!) in a series. So this is totally my fault. You can’t really jump into movie 5 of Harry Potter can you? Well you, but it’s just not as good.
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My takeaway... READ THE SERIES PEOPLE!
.
Question of the Day: Do you always read series in order? I’ve been known to grab a book and devour it without realizing it’s an installment in a series. This is one of those books that I would NOT recommend doing that with! To be fair, the author did give a warning that this could be read as a standalone but would be much more enjoyable and understandable read as a series installment. So any issues I have with this are being taken with a grain of salt because I didn’t follow the rules. That all being said, I was conflicted on how to rate this one. Follow up QOTD: What was the last book that left you unsure of how you felt about it?
.
This book surprised me. When I hear sports romance, I usually think light and fun. I wasn’t expecting so much depth and story packed into a sports romance. This is not your typical light sports romance. Holding has layers worth exploring. The chemistry between PR intern Tori and NFL player Mike is capital h HOT. There were a few times that chemistry surprised me. I’m going to leave that vague but if you know, you know. Not judgement, I was just really surprised it felt like it came out of nowhere.
Which leads me to the timeline of this book. I didn’t realize I should be paying that close attention to the little hints of time because about halfway through the book we’re a year in out of nowhere. Around 70% I had pretty much no clue what the timeline was and I didn’t understand a good chunk of the plot. BUT this is where I remind you, this is book #5 (FIVE!!!) in a series. So this is totally my fault. You can’t really jump into movie 5 of Harry Potter can you? Well you, but it’s just not as good.
.
My takeaway... READ THE SERIES PEOPLE!
May 10, 2021
I received an ARC of this book from the author via the NABC on Goodreads in exchange for an honest review, so here it is:
I gotta admit I kinda loved this book –
It was a witty slow burn contemporary sports romance that hit all the right notes along the way.
It started out with an air of a mystery – seemingly disjointed story developments with as yet-to-be revealed contextual cues – but when you’re coming into a standalone that had a lot of series background in previous books – it’s expected that the full context is evolutionary as the story progresses.
Once I clued in, however – after the first few chapters – I got up to speed and cleverly hooked into the Moving the Chains universe in the bargain.
I do agree though that reading the previous novels first would greatly enhance the overall reader experience by providing a better frame of reference for the series cast of characters.
It was not the story I was expecting and I was a little lost at the start but in the end I got far more than I ever would have wagered from this book - I laughed, I loved, I felt, I enjoyed and I want more!
Spoilers ahead:
I gotta admit I kinda loved this book –
It was a witty slow burn contemporary sports romance that hit all the right notes along the way.
It started out with an air of a mystery – seemingly disjointed story developments with as yet-to-be revealed contextual cues – but when you’re coming into a standalone that had a lot of series background in previous books – it’s expected that the full context is evolutionary as the story progresses.
Once I clued in, however – after the first few chapters – I got up to speed and cleverly hooked into the Moving the Chains universe in the bargain.
I do agree though that reading the previous novels first would greatly enhance the overall reader experience by providing a better frame of reference for the series cast of characters.
It was not the story I was expecting and I was a little lost at the start but in the end I got far more than I ever would have wagered from this book - I laughed, I loved, I felt, I enjoyed and I want more!
Spoilers ahead:
~ Deanaera's Bloggy Book Bites
March 9, 2021
Holding is book 5 in Moving the Chains and is Mike's story. I know, how will we survive not reading Rob and Eva? Don't worry, Cuic does a fantastic job with Mike and we get more Rob and Eva.
I love the Moving the Chains series but I won't lie I was really worried about going into Mike's book. I wasn't sure it would be able to hold up to Rob and Eva's story. But Cuic did a fantastic job of giving Mike his own story and not letting not having the first four books overshadow Holding.
Tori Russo is exactly what Mike needs. She grew up with five older brothers and a Navy captain as a father. People don't walk all over her. Mike Mitchell is the sweet, caring brother figure to Eva, but he's also the NFL's bad boy. While I absolutely see this and love it, it also made me giggle because I wouldn't have expected it three books ago. When Tori is tasked with babysitting Mike both of their lives are thrown upside down.
The instant connection between these two jumps off the page, however nothing can come of it. Tori isn't going to risk her job and her chance of proving she can make it on her own by jumping into bed with the playboy.
Mike and Tori's story is perfect for them. And Cuic puts a little bit of everything in Holding, friendship, love, family, angst, and of course of twist to keep us guessing.
Holding is a slow burn, sports romance that had be hooked from start to finish. Mike Mitchell was everything I expected him to be and a little more. Tori Russo was the perfect match for Mike. She came in fierce and strong and was his equal.
Maybe Kata Cuic will keep going and we'll get Alex's story next! Fingers crossed!
I love the Moving the Chains series but I won't lie I was really worried about going into Mike's book. I wasn't sure it would be able to hold up to Rob and Eva's story. But Cuic did a fantastic job of giving Mike his own story and not letting not having the first four books overshadow Holding.
Tori Russo is exactly what Mike needs. She grew up with five older brothers and a Navy captain as a father. People don't walk all over her. Mike Mitchell is the sweet, caring brother figure to Eva, but he's also the NFL's bad boy. While I absolutely see this and love it, it also made me giggle because I wouldn't have expected it three books ago. When Tori is tasked with babysitting Mike both of their lives are thrown upside down.
The instant connection between these two jumps off the page, however nothing can come of it. Tori isn't going to risk her job and her chance of proving she can make it on her own by jumping into bed with the playboy.
Mike and Tori's story is perfect for them. And Cuic puts a little bit of everything in Holding, friendship, love, family, angst, and of course of twist to keep us guessing.
Holding is a slow burn, sports romance that had be hooked from start to finish. Mike Mitchell was everything I expected him to be and a little more. Tori Russo was the perfect match for Mike. She came in fierce and strong and was his equal.
Maybe Kata Cuic will keep going and we'll get Alex's story next! Fingers crossed!
did-not-finish
March 5, 2021Ugh, another DNF. @ 17 %.
The book starts with a prologue that left me consufed. I had no idea whose POV it was and what it was about. It felt like being thrown into the scenery so I can only guess it has something to do with previous books.
I was willing to let it slide but unfortunately, the next couple chapters weren't any good. It felt like something was missing, like I should be reading the previous books even though this is a standalone. I didn't know what was going on, all was told and not shown.
For example, one moment they are having a normal conversation, the next she was being told (the conversation was brief so we don't get a glimpse of what was really going on) to go with the hero when he was going home. In the next chapter she was already drunk and stripping completely in front of him and I had no idea what was going on. None.
There were so many twists and turns, each chapter felt like being on a carousel and suddenly falling down in the middle of the unknown and doing what you can to figure out where you were. Seriously, the background of every scene was lacking. I like some mystery but if I don't know where the scene starts and why are the characters acting as they are, I have no choice but to put the book aside. I can't read it anymore and wondering each chapter what was going on. I can't.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book starts with a prologue that left me consufed. I had no idea whose POV it was and what it was about. It felt like being thrown into the scenery so I can only guess it has something to do with previous books.
I was willing to let it slide but unfortunately, the next couple chapters weren't any good. It felt like something was missing, like I should be reading the previous books even though this is a standalone. I didn't know what was going on, all was told and not shown.
For example, one moment they are having a normal conversation, the next she was being told (the conversation was brief so we don't get a glimpse of what was really going on) to go with the hero when he was going home. In the next chapter she was already drunk and stripping completely in front of him and I had no idea what was going on. None.
There were so many twists and turns, each chapter felt like being on a carousel and suddenly falling down in the middle of the unknown and doing what you can to figure out where you were. Seriously, the background of every scene was lacking. I like some mystery but if I don't know where the scene starts and why are the characters acting as they are, I have no choice but to put the book aside. I can't read it anymore and wondering each chapter what was going on. I can't.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 10, 2021
According to the author this book can be read as a stand-alone. I honestly don’t agree with that so it was a little hard for me to rate this book. I do feel like this book had some good qualities though so I would rate it around 3.5 stars.
This book definitely had its pros and cons:
The characters were good. Funny. Witty. Interesting.
The chemistry was good. But this is definitely an 18+ story. I would be super embarrassed by many scenes in this book if it happened in real life.
I didn’t want to put this down at times. It was intriguing and funny but also confusing.
The passage of time was TERRIBLE. I didn’t know if a week, a month, or a year passed. I would be reading and then it’s the next chapter but really it’s like a month later. The only way to know is to keep reading and eventually the author may throw in how much time has passed.
Things jumped way to much. They went from driving to a wedding to the wedding night. They went from being together to breaking up to her being in a completely different part of her life.
Another problem I had was this being considered a standalone but being super confused about certain people and certain things that happened in the past books. I personally felt that this book would have been more enjoyable if I had read it as part of the series.
Also wish the epilogue had been geared towards Tori and Mike more than Alex especially if Rob was right about what he mentioned. Not sure how soon I will be reading Alex’s story to be honest.
This book definitely had its pros and cons:
The characters were good. Funny. Witty. Interesting.
The chemistry was good. But this is definitely an 18+ story. I would be super embarrassed by many scenes in this book if it happened in real life.
I didn’t want to put this down at times. It was intriguing and funny but also confusing.
The passage of time was TERRIBLE. I didn’t know if a week, a month, or a year passed. I would be reading and then it’s the next chapter but really it’s like a month later. The only way to know is to keep reading and eventually the author may throw in how much time has passed.
Things jumped way to much. They went from driving to a wedding to the wedding night. They went from being together to breaking up to her being in a completely different part of her life.
Another problem I had was this being considered a standalone but being super confused about certain people and certain things that happened in the past books. I personally felt that this book would have been more enjoyable if I had read it as part of the series.
Also wish the epilogue had been geared towards Tori and Mike more than Alex especially if Rob was right about what he mentioned. Not sure how soon I will be reading Alex’s story to be honest.
March 2, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and netgalley.
This book is my first by this author. It is a series and a standalone though in some parts of the book it is hard to follow because they are characters from the prior book and their stories are intwined.
Though I was confused at some points the author does a great job of weaving the story of Mike and Tori. They are really great characters and I enjoyed the dialogue between them. The writing is great which is really what kept me in this story! The premise of this book is about Mike and Tori. Mike has had a hard time in the press and Tori is hired to pretty much babysit and help boost his image, though she initially tells him she’s his new PR rep. They work on boosting his image and through that they get to know each other and form a friendship. They eventually decide to fake a relationship together in hopes of bettering his image and helping her career.
Overall this was a good read I just wish I had a little more background or had read the other books prior to reading this. I feel it would easier to follow of I had. I will read more from this author in the future.
This book is my first by this author. It is a series and a standalone though in some parts of the book it is hard to follow because they are characters from the prior book and their stories are intwined.
Though I was confused at some points the author does a great job of weaving the story of Mike and Tori. They are really great characters and I enjoyed the dialogue between them. The writing is great which is really what kept me in this story! The premise of this book is about Mike and Tori. Mike has had a hard time in the press and Tori is hired to pretty much babysit and help boost his image, though she initially tells him she’s his new PR rep. They work on boosting his image and through that they get to know each other and form a friendship. They eventually decide to fake a relationship together in hopes of bettering his image and helping her career.
Overall this was a good read I just wish I had a little more background or had read the other books prior to reading this. I feel it would easier to follow of I had. I will read more from this author in the future.
March 24, 2021
I enjoy reading stories about football players falling in love. So, I was looking forward to reading Holding by Kata Cuic. It is an entertaining sports romance about a football player in need of some PR help. This is the first book I have read in this series and Kata Cuicis is a new author to me. While I enjoyed this story, I have to admit, at times, I found it confusing. There were a lot of different characters and since I didn’t read any of the other books in this series, I didn’t know their back stories and I felt a little lost.
Mike and Tori, the two main characters, are likable and it was fun reading their story. They are compatible and help each other through some tough times. They make each other feel better and help boost each other's confidence. I hoped they would be able to work through their issues and be together.
Along with Mike and Tori there are a whole cast of entertaining characters. This is an engaging story and it is the fifth book in the Moving the Chains series. If you like reading about football players, you will like this one.
Originally posted on Long and Short Reviews.
Mike and Tori, the two main characters, are likable and it was fun reading their story. They are compatible and help each other through some tough times. They make each other feel better and help boost each other's confidence. I hoped they would be able to work through their issues and be together.
Along with Mike and Tori there are a whole cast of entertaining characters. This is an engaging story and it is the fifth book in the Moving the Chains series. If you like reading about football players, you will like this one.
Originally posted on Long and Short Reviews.
May 8, 2021
Another great book in this great series.
Mike, Evie’s best friend, finally finds his soul mate, his unicorn.
It all starts bc the PR of his team entrusts Tori, an intern, to help Mike to improve his public image.
Mike has trouble trusting her at the beginning, but little by little they become friends.
But things get complicated when they asked them to fake a relationship.
What starts as a sham ends up turning into something real and wonderful for both of them.
But eventually the problems begin to appear and, although both love each other, they will separate for some time.
And it’s that as in the previous books, sometimes love is not enough. Be selfless, no selfish, that is Rob’s advice to Mike.
Tori and Mike are perfect for each other and the most fun. Even the kinky side of the good Mike comes out to play and is so 🔥🔥🔥.
My favorite moments are when the whole gang gets together, and the circle of trust os great. ❤️ 😂 with some of the scenes.
I’m counting the days to read Alex’s book, bc the little things that I have read so far, promises to be the most interesting book for me bc I’m really curious to get to know the most player of all players more thoroughly.
Mike, Evie’s best friend, finally finds his soul mate, his unicorn.
It all starts bc the PR of his team entrusts Tori, an intern, to help Mike to improve his public image.
Mike has trouble trusting her at the beginning, but little by little they become friends.
But things get complicated when they asked them to fake a relationship.
What starts as a sham ends up turning into something real and wonderful for both of them.
But eventually the problems begin to appear and, although both love each other, they will separate for some time.
And it’s that as in the previous books, sometimes love is not enough. Be selfless, no selfish, that is Rob’s advice to Mike.
Tori and Mike are perfect for each other and the most fun. Even the kinky side of the good Mike comes out to play and is so 🔥🔥🔥.
My favorite moments are when the whole gang gets together, and the circle of trust os great. ❤️ 😂 with some of the scenes.
I’m counting the days to read Alex’s book, bc the little things that I have read so far, promises to be the most interesting book for me bc I’m really curious to get to know the most player of all players more thoroughly.
March 2, 2021
I love a good romance novel once in a while. So when I had to chance to receive this as an ARC I jumped. I was totally in the mood to escape.
However, I had some issues with this book. It was supposed to be a standalone even though it was part of a series. But I felt like I was missing something and needed to read the previous books. It referred to people as if we should know who they were.
The other issue I had was that it didn't make sense. I can think of better reasons to fake a romance. And I could swallow it, but then the reason for the breakup, then suddenly it didn't matter.. I was confused. And it felt like a good bit of manufactured angst, which I really hate.
All that being said, I kept reading it - I was somehow drawn in. I liked the characters and the supporting friends. I am confused as to how to rate this, so I will give it 3 stars, Some things I really liked and some things I hated about it.
I do want to thank the author the publisher and #netgalley for the ARC - this did not impact my review.
However, I had some issues with this book. It was supposed to be a standalone even though it was part of a series. But I felt like I was missing something and needed to read the previous books. It referred to people as if we should know who they were.
The other issue I had was that it didn't make sense. I can think of better reasons to fake a romance. And I could swallow it, but then the reason for the breakup, then suddenly it didn't matter.. I was confused. And it felt like a good bit of manufactured angst, which I really hate.
All that being said, I kept reading it - I was somehow drawn in. I liked the characters and the supporting friends. I am confused as to how to rate this, so I will give it 3 stars, Some things I really liked and some things I hated about it.
I do want to thank the author the publisher and #netgalley for the ARC - this did not impact my review.
March 10, 2021
Kata Čuić’s “Holding” is the latest installment in her Moving the Chains contemporary romance series featuring beautifully broken people (some of whom are professional football players) searching for their HEAs. I really enjoyed the vulnerability of the characters and the fact that Čuić included enough of the backstories from the series to ensure that even new readers would still be able to understand the rich history and bonds between the major players in the story (while also tempting us to track down the previous books to get the full experience). “Holding” details the journey of Mike, a hotter-than-hot NFL rookie who hasn’t allowed money or fame to change him, and Tori, who is gutsier (if that’s not a word, it should be!) than she gives herself credit for, as they navigate the issues that arise from his rising stardom, her career aspirations, and a whole lot of heavy history. The escapades of Rob, Evie, and Alex, lifelong friends of Mike’s and purveyors of further drama, add to the story and leave us anxiously awaiting the next installment.
March 8, 2021
This is sports romance, friends to lovers, fake gf&bf, PA and humor.
I love this quote and trust me there is so many! But this one give is a good excuse when I simple slip a naughty word:
“There are plenty of studies that suggest otherwise. People who curse frequently are generally more intelligent and quick-witted.”~Mike
I love the we see Mike & Tori build up that trust with each other. Their romance is just perfect, I just smiled with this book. Hero just wish was real & heroine you wish she was your friend. They are just well rounded characters that you do invest in which is brilliant writing.
Now, am trying not to spoil too much but there is something for everyone here and...there is a secret that is revealed to Tori & Mike that I did not see coming and neither did they!!
☆MUST READ SPORT ROMANCE & FAVOURITE 21 ☆
{Goodreads has took away my sport shelf/tag and o won't let me replace it. This has happened a few times now}
I love this quote and trust me there is so many! But this one give is a good excuse when I simple slip a naughty word:
“There are plenty of studies that suggest otherwise. People who curse frequently are generally more intelligent and quick-witted.”~Mike
I love the we see Mike & Tori build up that trust with each other. Their romance is just perfect, I just smiled with this book. Hero just wish was real & heroine you wish she was your friend. They are just well rounded characters that you do invest in which is brilliant writing.
Now, am trying not to spoil too much but there is something for everyone here and...there is a secret that is revealed to Tori & Mike that I did not see coming and neither did they!!
☆MUST READ SPORT ROMANCE & FAVOURITE 21 ☆
{Goodreads has took away my sport shelf/tag and o won't let me replace it. This has happened a few times now}
March 4, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an advance reader copy of this book; I very much appreciate the opportunity to read it!
I'm struggling with how to rate this book as there were some things I really liked and others that were confusing & bothersome. I very much enjoyed the characters and their dialog. However, the plot line and the reason for the fake romance seemed manufactured and the timeline was difficult to follow as it jumped around quite a bit. Also, this book is billed as part of a series but can be read as a standalone, but I think I would have enjoyed this book more if I'd read others in the series.
I'm struggling with how to rate this book as there were some things I really liked and others that were confusing & bothersome. I very much enjoyed the characters and their dialog. However, the plot line and the reason for the fake romance seemed manufactured and the timeline was difficult to follow as it jumped around quite a bit. Also, this book is billed as part of a series but can be read as a standalone, but I think I would have enjoyed this book more if I'd read others in the series.
March 5, 2021
Tori Russo wants to prove herself to her family. But her current job feels more like babysitting the bad-boy football player. However, Mike Mitchell is more than what he seems at first glance. He’s a good guy who wants to play football and take care of his mom and sisters. So he is going to try to improve his image. Their chemistry is sizzling, but it’s beginning to feel like more somehow. Pretty soon someone is going to move out of the friend zone and that could cause some trouble for them.
These two were a good couple, likable and easy for the reader to hope for the best for them. Will they be able to fight their feelings? Or are they ready to move in a new direction?
These two were a good couple, likable and easy for the reader to hope for the best for them. Will they be able to fight their feelings? Or are they ready to move in a new direction?
March 8, 2021
I have read books by this author before and loved them but for me this one lacked something. It was still good, but i found it confusing at times mainly because other stories seemed to interlink with this one but yet its classed as a stand alone. It meant i was missing facts which effected this couples time line and story, so it made it harder to follow and therefore enjoy. The characters i did really like. Tori is the strong heroine and her chemistry with Mike was really good. Mike was fun, kind and generally a good guy. This was a romantic story and i was glad to see them get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2021
I enjoyed Mike & Tori's story quite a bit, and while I'm sure that you could read this as a standalone, as one who actually read the previous books in Moving the Chains, I suggest you go that route to be honest. These two had some chemistry going on, and I already fell for Mike from previous books, and I did love me some Tori as she seemed to be the perfect yin to his yang at the end of the day. I will say my favorite part has been seeing these guys in the pros now because I LIVE for NFL football. So that's all from me, now it's time for y'all to decide by hitting those one click buttons! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
January 18, 2022
I was pleasantly surprised by this romance, as I’m not a big contemporary sports romance reader, but this was an enjoyable read. I liked the witty characters and their chemistry, but I was confused at times at how much time had passed, sometimes I had to go back and look to see if I missed something. This is the fifth book in the series, and I did not read the first four, but I’m guessing I would have had a bit more background on some of the secondary couples that pop up and would have made this story even better.
This is a nice read, I think that even though it holds up okay as a standalone, I’d recommend reading the first four books in the series first.
This is a nice read, I think that even though it holds up okay as a standalone, I’d recommend reading the first four books in the series first.
March 4, 2021
4.5 Unicorn 🦄 Stars!! Yes! Finally Mike’s story! I loved this one! Mike and Tori’s fake relationship storyline grabs you from the beginning and holds you until the end. Their chemistry is sizzling hot. Their journey will make you laugh, swoon and get you in the feels. I love the supporting characters and how their stories intertwine with this one. Can be read as a standalone, but this whole series is fantastic and absolutely worth reading. The ending will leave you desperate for Alex’s story. One click!
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March 6, 2021I received an ARC from the author thru Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review. Tori is determined to stand on her own and be seen differently. She works hard but this ends up with her in middle of the PR problems that Mike has. He has a lot in jeopardy and she may be his saving grace in more ways than one. Neither expected that their attraction would lead to love. A fake relationship might be the beginning, but their ending was very real. I enjoyed thier story
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 6, 2021
I volunteered to read this ARC for an honest review. I enjoyed this story about Tori and Mike. He's a football player and she's an intern with the PR department for the team. He's got trust issues and has a fight with one of his bff's that the team deems needs fixed. So they assign Tori to babysit him and keep him out of trouble. They quickly develop a friendship that leads to more. But when drama comes knocking, they both freak. After finding themselves again a HEA is to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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