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thebookishnarwhal's review
5.0
Are you looking for a heartfelt journey of love and discovery? In her latest novel, “Catch and Keep” by Erin Hahn contains a captivating friends-to-lovers romance that weaves together warmth, vulnerability, and the magic of first love. Set against the backdrop of a small lakeside town, this book invites readers to dive into the depths of emotions, relationships, and self-discovery.
Meet Maren Laughlin. She’s a spirited protagonist who has spent her life fishing, both literally and metaphorically. She's adept at casting lines into the water, seeking elusive catches, but when it comes to matters of the heart, she's been hesitant to take the bait. Her flannel-clad college sweetheart, Owen, has always been there, a steadfast presence in her life. Yet, their friendship has remained platonic, the line between companionship and something more blurred but never crossed.
As the story unfolds, we witness Maren's internal struggle. She grapples with the fear of losing Owen if they venture beyond friendship. Erin Hahn masterfully portrays Maren's vulnerability: the way her heart races when Owen smiles, the way she notices the flecks of gold in his eyes, and the way she yearns for more. The tension between them is palpable, simmering beneath the surface like a hidden catch waiting to be reeled in.
Jen Devon, author of Right Where We Left Us, aptly describes this novel as "magically both hot and wholesome." And indeed, it is. The chemistry between Maren and Owen sizzles, yet their connection goes beyond physical attraction. Their banter, shared secrets, and stolen glances create a tapestry of intimacy that readers will root for.
The lakeside setting adds to the book's charm. Erin Hahn's vivid descriptions transport us to the water's edge with the gentle lapping of waves, the scent of pine, and the warmth of sun-kissed skin. It's a place where secrets are whispered among reeds, and hearts find solace in the rhythm of the lake.
Not just about romance, “Catch and Keep” is about self-discovery. Maren's journey involves unraveling her own fears, understanding what she truly wants, and learning that sometimes love requires courage. As she grapples with her feelings, readers will find themselves reflecting on their own missed chances and the moments when they hesitated to leap into the unknown.
Hahn's prose is lyrical, evoking emotions that linger long after the final page. She captures the essence of autumn from the crunch of leaves underfoot, the taste of apple cider, and the promise of change. Woven throughout is a soundtrack of grunge music, which adds depth to the narrative. It's as if the book itself hums with melodies of longing and hope.
In this cozy, swoon-worthy romance, Hahn invites us to believe in second chances and the power of vulnerability. As Maren and Owen navigate their feelings, we're reminded that sometimes the greatest catches are the ones we've been overlooking all along.
This book is a keeper, one to be savoured, shared, and cherished. Cast your line and immerse yourself in this heartfelt tale. You won't want to let go, and I cannot wait to read what Hahn pens next!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Meet Maren Laughlin. She’s a spirited protagonist who has spent her life fishing, both literally and metaphorically. She's adept at casting lines into the water, seeking elusive catches, but when it comes to matters of the heart, she's been hesitant to take the bait. Her flannel-clad college sweetheart, Owen, has always been there, a steadfast presence in her life. Yet, their friendship has remained platonic, the line between companionship and something more blurred but never crossed.
As the story unfolds, we witness Maren's internal struggle. She grapples with the fear of losing Owen if they venture beyond friendship. Erin Hahn masterfully portrays Maren's vulnerability: the way her heart races when Owen smiles, the way she notices the flecks of gold in his eyes, and the way she yearns for more. The tension between them is palpable, simmering beneath the surface like a hidden catch waiting to be reeled in.
Jen Devon, author of Right Where We Left Us, aptly describes this novel as "magically both hot and wholesome." And indeed, it is. The chemistry between Maren and Owen sizzles, yet their connection goes beyond physical attraction. Their banter, shared secrets, and stolen glances create a tapestry of intimacy that readers will root for.
The lakeside setting adds to the book's charm. Erin Hahn's vivid descriptions transport us to the water's edge with the gentle lapping of waves, the scent of pine, and the warmth of sun-kissed skin. It's a place where secrets are whispered among reeds, and hearts find solace in the rhythm of the lake.
Not just about romance, “Catch and Keep” is about self-discovery. Maren's journey involves unraveling her own fears, understanding what she truly wants, and learning that sometimes love requires courage. As she grapples with her feelings, readers will find themselves reflecting on their own missed chances and the moments when they hesitated to leap into the unknown.
Hahn's prose is lyrical, evoking emotions that linger long after the final page. She captures the essence of autumn from the crunch of leaves underfoot, the taste of apple cider, and the promise of change. Woven throughout is a soundtrack of grunge music, which adds depth to the narrative. It's as if the book itself hums with melodies of longing and hope.
In this cozy, swoon-worthy romance, Hahn invites us to believe in second chances and the power of vulnerability. As Maren and Owen navigate their feelings, we're reminded that sometimes the greatest catches are the ones we've been overlooking all along.
This book is a keeper, one to be savoured, shared, and cherished. Cast your line and immerse yourself in this heartfelt tale. You won't want to let go, and I cannot wait to read what Hahn pens next!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
shutterjess's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
4.0
I love a book where a woman grows into someone that doesn't take crap from anyone, and Maren definitely does just that. From her ex-boyfriend, to her sort of stalker, and most annoyingly, her big brother, our girl grows a backbone.
Joe (Josiah) is a single dad, and a great dad at that. He is Maren's brother's best friend, which makes things a bit awkward, but who cares? Everyone here is an adult! I love the representation of his autistic daughter, and I love the ways Maren's relationship evolves with both kids, but especially Lucy.
I did think that the concern with Bryce (stalker) would play a bigger role in the story than it did. I sort of wish I'd seen a bigger conclusion with that aspect.
Joe (Josiah) is a single dad, and a great dad at that. He is Maren's brother's best friend, which makes things a bit awkward, but who cares? Everyone here is an adult! I love the representation of his autistic daughter, and I love the ways Maren's relationship evolves with both kids, but especially Lucy.
I did think that the concern with Bryce (stalker) would play a bigger role in the story than it did. I sort of wish I'd seen a bigger conclusion with that aspect.
laurynneast24's review
5.0
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s for this eARC!
I really loved this. I loved that the main character was from Michigan, because I’m from there too, so I could relate to Maren in my own way. Maren and Joe have amazing chemistry, they’re so perfect for each other. Joe has an autistic daughter, and I love that the author chose to include that in this book. It’s shown in such a beautiful way, and made me so happy to bring awareness to it. All the characters were great, even though I didn’t care for Liam, and didn’t like Kiley at all, (who would, after what she did??) this book was so heartwarming, like a breath of fresh air after being stuck inside. It was beautifully written, with a great plot, lovable characters and some good spicy scenes. Overall, fantastic read and very well done.
I really loved this. I loved that the main character was from Michigan, because I’m from there too, so I could relate to Maren in my own way. Maren and Joe have amazing chemistry, they’re so perfect for each other. Joe has an autistic daughter, and I love that the author chose to include that in this book. It’s shown in such a beautiful way, and made me so happy to bring awareness to it. All the characters were great, even though I didn’t care for Liam, and didn’t like Kiley at all, (who would, after what she did??) this book was so heartwarming, like a breath of fresh air after being stuck inside. It was beautifully written, with a great plot, lovable characters and some good spicy scenes. Overall, fantastic read and very well done.
2nd2lastunicorn's review
emotional
hopeful
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Erin has once again completely stolen my heart with her story! Our FMC and MMC are so sweet to each other and the perfect mix of friends to lovers and brother’s best friend! I loved the dynamic with Joe’s children and how well they were represented and the spice was perfectly executed!
jeaniedev's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
juliiareads's review
3.0
3.2 ˖⁺‧✮
brother’s best friend? yeees!!
i want to begin with chapters! i really really like when authors name their chapters, it feels like they really care about the book. it does not mean that books without chapter names are bad! my favorite one was “Tolerate It” i think you know why
brother’s best friend? yeees!!
i want to begin with chapters! i really really like when authors name their chapters, it feels like they really care about the book. it does not mean that books without chapter names are bad! my favorite one was “Tolerate It” i think you know why
robynjhip's review
funny
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I absolutely love this story!
mnedmonds's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
5.0
I absolutely loved this book!! I loved the characters, and I felt the autistic representation of the MMC's daughter was well done. I enjoyed the romance as well! Overall, this was a well written quick read!
kaitbailer's review
emotional
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Thank you so much St. Martin’s Press & NetGalley for this ARC! Friends, Catch and Keep has every single thing you could ask for. It’s a semi-second chance romance, brother's best friend, found family MASTERPIECE. I wish that I could properly put into words how much I loved this book. I knew I was going to like it but within the prologue I was hooked. By the third chapter it already gave me the feeling I get when I’m reading a new favorite. Now that I’ve finished, I can safely say that this is a book that I will reread over and over again. I really appreciated how Erin handled real, serious problems so delicately. I felt that every plot line that was introduced was fully wrapped up and you definitely can’t say that about all romance books! These characters were so well written that the characters you hate, you REALLY hate. And the characters you love, you adore with your whole heart. The relationship between Maren and Lucy really melted my heart. I LOVED that Joe wasn’t your typical alpha male that you read in a lot of romance books. He was protective of Maren but at the same time, he fully believed she could take care of herself and didn’t get in her way of doing that. And when Maren & Joe finally confess their love I genuinely got teary eyed. All in all, Catch and Keep is an incredible book and very much worth the wait. Make sure you go check it out in October!!!!