Hold On Tight

Bridgeport Social Club #3

by Shelley Shepard Gray

Jackson Koch had already lost his wife to cancer when the town's coal mines shut down and his job was gone too. So, with a three-year-old daughter to care for and a broken heart to mend, he moved across the country to find a new life in Bridgeport, Ohio. Now he tends bar by night and tries to navigate life as a single dad by day. Luckily, his neighbor is happy to babysit while he works late nights. She's great with little Kate, beautiful, kind ... and lately he's found himself smiling whenever he thinks about her. Dani Brown also knows what it's like to lose a spouse and raise a child on her own. Cleaning houses during the day, and taking online classes at night, she dreams of running her own preschool someday. And, since her fourteen-year-old son Jeremy's baseball team requires a lot of money, she's thrilled to earn some extra cash by watching her handsome neighbor's adorable little girl. But even with two jobs, she's having trouble making ends meet. When Jackson sees Dani running herself ragged for her son's baseball ambitions he decides it's time to get the Bridgeport Social Club involved. Together they cook up a plan. They will run a charity poker tournament to support Jeremy's dream and help out a hardworking single mom. But will Dani be able to accept help from the handsome neighbor she's starting to feel more-than-friendly feelings for? And how far is she ready to let those feelings go? Get ready to fall in love with Shelley Shepard Gray's Bridgeport Social Club again, where a poker night is so much more than a game of cards and an extraordinary community of ordinary men and women come together to offer love, light, and hope to everyone they encounter.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Christian Romance, Christian Fiction, Audiobook, Christian

278 pages, Paperback

First published June 11, 2019

About the author

Librarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).

Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.

Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.

Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.


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Reviews

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jackson Koch’s wife died of cancer and then he lost his job when the coal mine closed down. With a three year old daughter, Kate, he packs up and moves to Bridgeport Ohio where he has a group of mates. He gets a job tending bar at night for Gen, who owns the place. This means he needs a babysitter for Kate in the evenings. His neighbour Dani Brown is happy to oblige since the money Jackson pays her helps supplement her income from cleaning jobs.
As a single mum to son, Jeremy, after her husband Brian died, she struggles to make ends meet. When Jeremy wants to play baseball and is very good at it, she longs to be able to meet those needs. But everything costs so much. Seeing her running herself ragged, Jackson steps in with a plan that involves his mates in the Bridgeport Social club and a charity poker tournament. But will this solve the problem or create more? And when did Jackson’s feelings for Dani change to more than just friendship and admiration? Meanwhile his boss, Gen, is having her own issues as Seth, her ex, seeks her out.
This is a sweet story if somewhat predictable. The relationships between Dani and son Jeremy and Jackson and little Kate are well portrayed. I liked the relationship between Jackson and his mates. Bridgeport is portrayed as a friendly, supportive community. Sounds a lovely place to live where people largely care about each other.
It is a pleasant, easy read. This is the third book in a series about Bridgeport. It did not matter that I had not read the others as it stands alone fine. I have read and enjoyed a couple of other books in another series by this author, which I enjoyed a bit more than this one. Though a couple of things didn’t ring true at times, this was still an enjoyable read.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jackson Koch and Dani Brown have some things in common. For starters, they have both lost their marriage mates in death. Further, they each have a child, he with three-year-old Kate, and her son, Jeremy is fourteen. They live in the same building and Dani watches over Kate while Jackson tends bar at night.

Jackson has had it rough. He lost his wife and his job as a miner in a very close span of time and he is doing his best to be there for Kate, even if being a bartender is far from his dream job. Dani is struggling. She is working at cleaning houses, taking classes, caring for Jeremy and his dream of baseball, and, as mentioned, watching little Kate.

Jackson is the perfect guy who spots a situation that he just feels impelled to rectify. Can he be there for Dani as more than a friend? Especially when it comes to Jeremy? Meanwhile, will Dani be able to accept growing feelings for Jackson without losing her hard-won independence?

Hold on Tight is the third book in the Bridgeport Social Club series. In each story, relationships thrived between deserving couples. One thing I really like about this story, and the trio of books in the series, is the fact that there are children in each story. That is something that always warms my heart. Friendship and community also play huge roles.

I have read each book in the series, and enjoy the continuity of characters, especially with their situations and growth. This is definitely a character-driven story, with a slow burn romance, and it is quite fulfilling. This is especially so because it is quite an emotional read that I would gladly recommend.

Although part of a series, this story can serve well as a standalone novel.

Many thanks to Blackstone Publishing and to NetGalley, as well as Edelweiss, for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of Shelley Shepard Gray's books let me start with a bit of a disclaimer. If you are expecting this book to be a squeaky clean read like her Amish books are, it's not. There's a teensy bit of language and this book has some heat in the romance department. If you don't like those elements then take a pass on this book. However, if you don't mind some language and heat then be sure to pick up a copy of this book because it's a really great read.

Let's talk about the characters in this book. They are very realistic and down to earth. I like that in a story. When the characters are easy to relate to it makes the book more entertaining. Dani and Jackson are both realistic characters and ones that readers can empathize with and wish the best for. Add in characters from the previous books in the series and some new ones to this story and it was like hanging out with friends. It was so easy to forget these were fictional characters.

As with all of her books, SSG has a writing style that captivates readers from beginning to end. This book was effortless to read and had me wanting to pack my bags and visit Bridgeport. Which may be a problem because it's a fictional place so unless she writes more books set there it looks like I won't be going for any visits. (Please write more books that are set there!) I love the little poker tidbits at the beginning of each chapter. I think they added to the charm of the story and just gave the book a little more charm.

If you like contemporary fiction then you must add this book to your tbr list. It is part of a series but I think stands well on its own so it isn't necessary to read the other books before this one. I've read them though and highly recommend them as well. This book is a great weekend read or vacation read. Just be sure to clear a bit of time because once you start this book it will be difficult to put down! Happy reading!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a review. All opinions are mine.

[Emily · Rating 1 out of 5]

CW: miscarriage

Nope nope nope. This book is chock-full of women who are touted to be so strong and independent, but can't even make it through one chapter without a Big Strong Man needing to save them. The first book in this series wasn't so bad but they've gotten distinctly more "damsel in distress" as the books progressed. This one was way out of hand. A side character had a miscarriage and was clearly still grieving, so the baby's father, who has been out of her life for two years forces her to relive the moment because *he* feels guilty. Then the main characters. Dani is a single mom who is providing for herself and her child, but yet this gravelly-voiced stranger has to come in to save the day, even after both Dani and the side character Jen have told him to step back. But he knows best and ignores their wishes in literally every single instance. I DNFed this one after Dani had a run-in with a man who grabbed her arm and Jackson demands he show her her arm, even when she doesn't want to, insists on walking her to her car so he can continue to grill her, after she has said she's fine and doesn't want to talk about it, badgers her to tell him the guy's name even though these two aren't dating, then brings up her dead husband and tries to guilt her into falling at his feet that way. I'm not sure why we are still romanticizing men ignoring women to tell them to stop, but it's not cute or romantic.

[Just Commonly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hold on Tight, the third book in The Bridgeport Social Club series may be my favorite one to date, though I'm still a fan of the character of Finn in the 2nd book, All In. What I love of Hold On Tight is not only the message of the series (friendship and community) that translates exceptionally well here too, but the author also delve into the roles and hardship of single parenthood. There's an emotional thread related to that story line that felt real. Add in second chances in life, and a gorgeous cover to match, Hold on Tight will have you ready for more by the author.


For my clean readers, please note there is mention of premarital sex and pregnancy out of wedlock in this story.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
A sweet romance featuring two widowed people and a group of friends, “Hold on Tight”, by Shelley Shepard Gray, is an engaging story about friends turning into lovers while tackling single parenthood and economic difficulties.
You cannot but love the romantic couple, their children and their supportive and good-hearted friends – almost too good to be true. It’s great to have ordinary people (the hero is a bartender and a former miner, the heroine is a cleaner) as main characters.
This is a story about feelings, emotions, affections, and there’s a lot of talk about these issues, even between the male characters.

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on Tight is the third book in the Bridgeport Social Club series and it is my favorite by far. I read this book in one day because the storyline was so touching and realistic that I couldn't stop reading.
Dani Brown and Jason Koch have both suffered the loss of a spouse, they each have a child and they are both good people who I was rooting for to have the best of everything that life offered.

Dani works hard to provide for her son Jeremy who wants to play on the baseball team which isn't in her budget. My heart went out to her as she worked tirelessly to make his dream come true. From cleaning houses to babysitting Jason's daughter to taking online classes she doesn't have much time for herself or friendships. Until she becomes closer to Jason that is, I loved the interest he took in her and how his friends became important to her, too.
Speaking of friends, this book and series in general as all about family and friendship.

The characters are humble, compassionate, hardworking, flawed human beings who use colorful language occasionally. They don't put on airs and they never forget what it's like to struggle which is why they are ready to help others in need. I find myself genuinely respecting the imperfect characters who are trying to make better lives for themselves and those they love.

I received a copy of the book from the author but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.

[Despina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for a honest review


Jackson his moved to Bridgeport with his tiny daughter Kate for a new starts, some of his buddies from his home town invited him and now he's starting to fit in. Dani and her son are his neighbor's and Dani watches Kate for him when he works at night. Both have lost their spouses and both are finding their feet. Overall cute story, but I felt the romance suffered a bit, I liked both Jackson (Cookie) and Dani but I didn't feel their romance, it felt like something was missing. I still enjoyed reading about this couple, I just didn't love it.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great HEA

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the whole series. My heart really went out to Jackson and Dani as they both lost their spouses at a young age. They are both single parents who adore their children. Their story was poignant, bittersweet and heartwarming. I also enjoyed Gen and Seth's story. It was good to see the characters from the previous books also. This could be read as a standalone, but I recommend the series. Great read!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jackson lost his wife and job so he moves to Ohio. His neighbor babysits his 3 year old daughter and works as a maid. She is a widow with a 14 year old son. Jackson see how hard she has to work to support her son and get him into a private baseball club so he organizes a poker night with the winnings going to her. The local bar gives Jackson a job and he finds his boss is in love with some from the past.Some how it all works out in the end.

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh sigh. This is a lovely second chance romance/happily ever after that will keep you smiling. Both Jackson and Dani have experienced loss and both are trying hard to make their way as single parents. Dani's struggling to make ends meet, especially since her son Jeremy is growing and well, you know how teenage boys are! She watches Jackson's daughter Kate while he tends bar at night and slowly slowly the relationship builds. These two are delightful. The idea that the Bridgeport Social Club would band together to raise money via a poker tournament- so nice. Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC. A pleasant read that will remind you that there are good things out there.

[Gerrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars

[Char (1RadReader59) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a totally clean tale that was a pleasure to read. It is a truthful story, of average people, living simple lives, ones who struggle to make ends meet, to fit in, to not feel alone, or lonely. Real, salt of the earth, people.
The people are Jackson Kosh about thirty or thirty-one. I would guess who is from Virginia where he was a miner. He loved his work, unfortunately, not only did he lose his wife to cancer. He lost his job when the mine closed. Being depressed when he has a toddler to raise is not good. So, friends who had moved to Bridgeport, Ohio told that he needed to follow.
They told him it was a great place to raise a child the community was bigger and there were more opportunities. Jackson also figured less ghost of his wife there also. He loved her immensely, but it was time to move on and live his life for Kate’s sake.
He did and met Dani Brown when he was getting their mail. Kate liked her so he asked if she would be interested in sitting evenings when he bartended. She said, yes. You see she is a widow, about thirty-three, with a fourteen-year-old son. Her day job she cleans houses and then she takes college courses on-line.
After six months their friendship has progressed, and more info passed. That’s when Jackson finds out Jeremy has been asked to play on a traveling baseball league. He’s that good. Which cost big bucks which he knows is more than Dani makes. He wants to help.
Jackson has a plan to help…
This is a fun read. I really enjoyed the characters they were really down to earth and friends all of wish we could find and hold on too. Slow in a few parts but not bad at all. I give this: 4 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.

[E-Reader Addict · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hold on Tight is another solid addition to Shelley Shepard Gray’s Bridgeport Social Club series.

Jackson Koch first lost his wife to cancer, then was laid off from his job as a coal miner. Needing a fresh start in life, he moves to Bridgeport with his young daughter, and now tends bar at night. It was a tough decision to move away from his family, but joining his friends who previously relocated to the town in Ohio has given him the change he and his daughter need.

When Dani Brown’s husband died several years ago, it left her a single mother, struggling to make ends meet. Her night-time job of babysitting Jackson’s daughter is desperately needed, especially now that her 14 year old son has been invited to join a select baseball team. That she and Jackson are becoming friends is an unexpected benefit.

Of course, that doesn’t mean the road to happily-ever-after doesn’t come with some foul balls. Dani is very prickly about anyone helping her, so Jackson’s efforts to ease the financial burden of club baseball doesn’t go over well - initially with Dani, and then with her son.

The thing I’ve loved about this series is that the characters are real and relatable, and they have simple, uncomplicated stories. This hero and heroine had particularly heartbreaking histories, and it was so heartwarming to see them find a new love without all the angst you might expect from two people with so much baggage. It’s so refreshing to read a story where a relationship develops in a normal, natural way. And when the little conflict they did have occurred, everyone had their moments of emotional reaction, but then quickly dealt with them in a healthy way. No over-the-top drama here!

Are the books in this series amazing, with memorable plots and incredible characters? Not really. But their strength is in the realism and simplicity. They are nice stories. Which may not sound like a compliment, but it is! I’m so OVER insta-love, repeated mentions of a hero's hawt body parts (and what it does to the heroine’s body parts), and alpha males. Real romance is a man who takes his time to kiss a woman, and doesn’t let his hormones drive his actions. Those are the kinds of stories I really enjoy reading. And that is exactly what Shelley Shepard Gray gives us with her Bridgeport Social Club series.

* thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Gwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had never read a story by this author before but I was well entertained and thoroughly engaged in the story. The only issue I had was with the Gen/Seth storyline. It was like it was thrown in there and I didn't like that he seemed to be stalking her after she repeatedly told him to leave.

Other than that, I really enjoyed the story.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I read by this author and will not surely be the last.
It's engaging, entertaining, and well written.
I appreciated the cast of characters, the plot, and the setting.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for this ARC

[Sheena ☆ Book Sheenanigans · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)
Title: Hold On Tight
Author(s): Shelley Shepard Gray
Character(s):
― Danielle "Dani" Brown: 33 years old, Blonde, Brown Eyed
― Jackson Koch: Blonde, Blue Eyed
Setting: Bridgeport, Ohio
Tag(s): Romance, Contemporary
Content Rating: PG
POV: Third Person
Smexy Level: Subtle
Favorite Quote(s):
― “You hold onto me, and I’ll help you. Hold on tight.”
Overall Opinion:
This heartwarming novel tells the story of a single mother struggling to make ends meet and when her widow neighbor who can occasionally babysits for catches on, he comes up with a plan to help her during the financial woes. Finding love again can be difficult for anyone and author is able to convey that in her words. A cute, romance about two single parents finding love again.

[Romantic Reads and Such · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first two books in this series and this one shows that Gray knows how to keep delivering.  Both Dani and Jackson have experienced hardships in their lives and are just doing the best they can for their kids.  The easy way these two manage to create a kind of friendship and then something more is very appealing.  And realistic.  There are so many ways that this could have gone sideways but Gray manages to keep things real and relatively drama free.

Dani has spent so many years having only herself to rely on that it is hard for her to accept someone else’s offer of help.  She can’t get past the feeling of owing someone and while Jackson is ready to be there for her it takes a bit for her to get to the point of being able to accept it. 

Jackson has been struggling with losing both his wife and his job in a short amount of time.  He had a little problem with depression (understandably) for a while and getting him & his daughter out of their small town was the best for both of them.  It’s just super hard to accept a life where he is now a bartender – a good job just not what he imagined for himself.  But he has good friends and with a little self-examination he’s starting to feel a better about his situation. 

You aren’t going to find a lot of drama moments with this series.  It’s just realistic characters, living their lives and trying to figure things out – pretty much like you and me :)  Instead, go into it with a relaxed mind and an attitude of just enjoying the ride.  You’ll find plenty to appreciate about the well-crafted characters and the normality of their lives. 

**Review given honestly and freely after receipt of a reader copy. This opinion is completely my own and was not influenced in any way.**

[Kerry Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio book review:
Jackson Koch had already lost his wife to cancer when the town's coal mines shut down and his job was gone too. So, with a three-year-old daughter to care for and a broken heart to mend, he moved across the country to find a new life in Bridgeport, Ohio. Now he tends bar by night and tries to navigate life as a single dad by day. Luckily, his neighbor is happy to babysit while he works late nights. She's great with little Kate, beautiful and kind. Dani also knows what it's like to be a single parent as she navigates bringing up her child on her own too.
This is a cute and adorable story, it's funny and witty and I really enjoyed the narrator, she had the right pace and tone for this story. I loved how she made her voice so deep for Jackson. I loved this story about second chance romance, single parenting and supportive friends. It's a small town romance and as most of you will know, this is one of my favorite tropes.
I haven't listened to any books prior by this author or read any of Gray's books, but I can definitely say I'll be looking for some of her other romances.
The story of Jackson is endearing and you can't help but feel for him having gone through what he has gone through with losing his wife. He kind of comes over as a bit of the grump and another trope I tend to enjoy is grumpy x sunshine.
I'd highly recommend the audio book, it's lovely to have a story read to you.
Kerry Kennedy Author

[Pamela Pavkov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on Tight is the third outstanding story written by Shelley Shepard Gray in her The Bridgeport Social Club series. I enjoyed this storyline very much. It is fast paced and keeps the readers interest. The characters are very likeable and realistic. I also enjoyed that this story kept me informed about the characters from the previous stories.

Jackson and Dani are two of a kind. I really enjoyed their journey even though they had to experience such tragic losses. They show the reader just how important it is to embrass the past and beable to move forward. Jackson definitely demonstrates that chivalry is still alive. Dani also demonstrates how a child should come first over her own personal desires. This is a remarkable story of loss, friendship, and second chances.

I was able to read this story thru Netgalley but was not encoraged by anyone to post a favorable review. I have rated this book with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.

Congratulations to Shelley Shepard Gray on writing another amazing story for her readers enjoyment. I enjoyed the entire series and anticipate more amazing stories from this author in the future.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting and waiting for this book, and then for the chance to have time to read it! My wait was rewarded!!!
What I have loved about the Bridgeport Social Club series is that it features real people who don't have it all together. They're not "have all the answer" Christians, some of them aren't Christians at all. That makes this series all the more valuable, because some of the characters are "Velveteen Rabbit" type Christians: the ones who have had real hardships in life, love and faith and who are searching and seeking and real with others about their doubts and failings. Their knees are calloused because they do fall, and they fall to their knees asking for answers.
The series also points to the value of having friends in life, friends who have your back. Friends who care about your friends because YOU care about them. Friends who are willing to step in and step up in both the everyday issues, the crises and the joys of life.
I do badly at sharing with others. These books give me hope to keep trying to reach out and be real and to develop my friendships into more than casual, how-are-you relationships.
Thank you, Shelley, for stepping out of the norm and trying something different. You rocked it!!!

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed the previous books in this series, but I think this one is my favorite.
The story centers around widowed, single Mom, Danielle/Dani Brown, and single widower Dad, Jackson Koch. Both have suffered great loses and are still trying to find their way in life as a single parent and an individual.
But instead of giving you a summary of the story , I will go a different way.
This story is about the loss of a spouse and finding your way back to the living. About having to take a step forward everyday for your children , whom you want to give the best life can offer.
About overcoming the sadness and finding hope . About realizing that the life you had before is gone forever , but also that the one in front of you, is opened to opportunities ,and maybe love.
A touching story that at times is heartbreaking but in the end heartwarming.
Lastly, I enjoyed getting a chance to “visit” with the characters of previous books and seeing how they were all doing.
Another winner by this talented author.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Doreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed returning to Bridgeport and meeting some new people destined to become part of the Bridgeport Social Club. I like how welcoming the core group of people are to newcomers and to those in need. They’re a great example of what a community is and should be. The fact that they gather around a poker table is fun and unique. While I haven’t played poker in years, I love the camaraderie felt around a table playing cards. It’s a place to relax and set aside your cares for a time and often people’s real needs become clear as the conversation swirls. That’s just what happens in this series.
The four main characters of this novel have all dealt with significant loss. When a chance to move on or begin afresh presents itself, they are understandably hesitant. This is a story of second chances, of grieving and hope, and of helping others. It was nice to reconnect with the characters from the other books in the series as well.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing for providing me with an e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Book 1: Take a Chance
Book 2: All In
Book 3: Hold on Tight

[Jenn (YeahOrNeighReviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This heartfelt story is about two widowed, single parents just trying to get by and make the best life for their child. Jackson is trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life after losing his wife and career, but with the help of Dani, at least he doesn't have to worry about someone to watch over his 3 year old daughter. Dani is trying to get back on her feet after the sudden loss of her husband and discovering they weren't as financially stable as she thought. Her 14 year old son adores all things baseball, but she's burning her candle to the ground between babysitting, a cleaning job and taking classes. Can Jackson and Dani figure out a happy medium, especially when they start to develop feelings for one another? I enjoyed this light-hearted story and will be going back to read the first two books in the series!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold On Tight ( Bridgeport Social Club # 3 )
By: Shelley Shepard Gray
Hold On Tight is book three in Bridgeport Social Club Series and it was my favorite. I love the story and the characters, both were well written and realistic. This is Dani and Jackson’s story. Both have had hurt in their past and both are struggling as a single parent. Dani has a teenage boy and Jackson has a three year old daughter. Dani watches Jackson’s daughter while he works at night. These two become good friends. This is a second chance story that will touch your heart. I felt sorry for both of them.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have only read two of the three books in the series so far. I have loved the characters! They have all come to life. Jackson has moved to the town with his young daughter for a fresh start. Too many memories were to much. Learning a new profession and taking care of his young daughter can be daunting. However with the help of his pretty neighbor Dani, Jackson finds himself settling in. Dani needed a new start also. Losing her husband left her with dreams she is trying to grasp. Raising her teenage son isn't cheap. Will she be able to afford all the expenses? When Jackson sees Dani struggling, he decides to help. Will she accept it? Follow along in the Bridgeport Social Club. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.

[Sofia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best part of the entire book? Kate.

“Look at my best girl,” he murmured. “Looking so pretty in pink, too.”
Kate’s eyes widened in happiness before her expression turned mulish. “Mr. Ace, I’m not your best girl anymore.”
Ace’s gaze flickered over to Jackson before he focused back on Katie. “You’re not? Now, why is that?”
“’Cause of Miss Meredith.”
“What? I can’t have two best girls?” He knelt down on one knee.
Shaking her head, Kate’s voice was adamant. “Nope.”
Jackson shook his head as he approached his tiny terror. “Kathryn Koch, you mind your manners.”
“Nah, she’s okay.” Winking at Finn, Ace said, “Kate, if I can only have one best girl, does that mean you can only have one best man?”

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold On Tight by Shelley Shepard Gray is book Three in The Bridgeport Social Club Series. This is the story of Dani Brown and Jackson Koch. I haven't yet read the previous books, so for me this was a standalone book.
Dani and Jackson have both lost their spouses and are single parents. Dani is helping Jackson to watch his young daughter Kate, when he is at work, which helps her get extra money besides her cleaning jobs. In addition to all that she is taking online classes and trying to help raise money for her son Jeremy to be on a baseball team.
This was a sweet second type change romance.

[Carol Deegan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another amazing book in The Bridgeport Social Club series. These characters came together in Bridgeport after several of them lost their livelihoods when a mine closed. This book is about Dani and Jackson and their second chance at love. Both are struggling to raise their children as single parents after the death of a spouse. The characters and situations are realistic, and the book is easy to read and follow. The storyline demonstrates how true friends reach out to help those in need, and want the best for everyone. There are mentions of premarital sex and out of wedlock pregnancy, but no explicit sex scenes. I highly recommend this book, as well as the entire series.

[Gretchen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I liked the couple of Amish novels I read written by this author, so thought I’d check out her contemporary stories, which genre I generally prefer. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in Bridgeport and appreciated that this was a pretty clean read (some language and various characters sleeping with each other outside of marriage, although no details of the latter are on the page, which I again appreciate). If my library ever gets this series on their shelf I’d look into reading about Kurt and Ace as well. Hoping to pick up “Shall We Dance” from the author’s new Dance with Me series. The main character, Shannon, is connected to the Bridgeport men by having the same hometown.