A young lady of sixteen is sold by her mother and the young man of her heart's father to an earl promising her a brilliant career as a singer. It is a successful career, but controlled by the Earl with drugs and alcohol, with sexual abuse. There is hope with help from friends and the man who still loves her. May have triggers. Very dark and painful to read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.

Wow, this story will grab at your heart strings. A young Tamsyn and Jowan were childhood sweethearts until they were torn from one another, when she is sold to an Earl who promises her a singing career. Seven years later she is a famous singer, as well as addicted to drug, sex and alcohol. Jowan is now a Baronet, who when he hears of her return to England, seeks to rescue her. He and his friends nurse her back to health, but the wicked Earl is not about to let her go. This story is riveting and heart wrenching, but beautifully written.

I honestly could not get into this story whatsoever. I tried and tried and actually tried even rereading the book and it’s just a big no for me.

Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.

This is book 8 of the series, A Twist Upon a Regency Tale, and it was not just a twist because it is a regency retelling of a fairy tale, but it is also not a simple HEA fairy tale. I found this one a bit hard to read, despite not being able to put it down. Not because it was not a well written, compelling story, but because there was so much tragedy, suffering, and angst.

Content warning - in this story, the MFC is essentially sold by her mother and the mother's lover to an Earl, in the pretext of him mentoring her musical talent, but over the years, he isolates her, gets her addicted to substances, so he can control and manipulate her. He emotionally, physically, sexually, and financially manipulates and abuses her to the point where she thinks she is beyond saving and her only choices are to continue to be in the clutches of her addiction and in his control, and death.

Childhood sweethearts Jowan Tretheway, the son of a Welsh baron, and Tamsyn Roskilly, the daughter of the baron's housekeeper, are considered an inappropriate match and forced apart by their parents. Tamsyn is sent away to apprentice as a singer and musician under an Earl noted for his ability to foster talent. Despite their vow to stay in touch and find their way to each other again, they soon lose touch with each other as life goes on.

As the years pass, Jowan reads about Tamsyn's growing fame and success as she tours the Continent, as he inherits his father's depleted and indebted estates. He and his brother work hard to rejuvenate and innovate, to renew their wealth, and help those dependent on them. Despite their broken promise to each other, Jowan has never forgotten his lost love, Tamsyn, now known as the famed singer Tammy Lind. The brother's plan on going to London to pursue some missing information about their father's finances, and Jowan decides to call on Tamsyn, still in the care of the Earl, in the hopes of seeing for himself how she is, and if she still thinks about him.

Tamsyn though, has been heavily controlled by the Earl, through the use of alcohol, opium, and other drugs, as well as having her watched and controlled by his heavy-handed bully boys, and servants. He keeps her barely aware of reality and uses her at will himself, or to reward his toughs, or as bait to manipulate others into his control. Tamsyn has occasionally tried to rid herself of her addictions, or escape the Earl, but he has always managed to bring her back under his control, and she knows enough about his true nature to be afraid of him, and how far she can get away from things. She still remembers Jowan, but after all these years, and with no word from him, is afraid that he has forgotten her, and even if he has not, she feels that there is nothing left of the Tamsyn, and what she is now is not worthy of him.

When Jowan tries to get in contact with Tamsyn he is rebuffed by the Earl, but the few friends she has bring manage to secretly let Tamsyn know that Jowan is reaching out to her, but she fears that if the Earl finds out, they would all be punished. Somehow though, Jowan becomes aware of the state of Tamsyn, and danger she faces, and is determined to save her.

But saving her from the clutches of the Earl is only a small part of the story, because even when they successfully save Tamsyn from the Earl, they must save her from the demons of her addictions as they continue to elude the Earl.

A bittersweet story of childhood sweethearts torn apart most cruelly, and their reunion, but with such a sense of tragedy as they fight to overcome Tamsyn's addiction and her past. Jowan is a sharp contrast to the Earl as well, not only in saving and trying to help Tamsyn overcome her addictions, but cognizant of her abuse at the Earl's hands, Jowan is determined to earn her love and trust, and faith in men again by giving her space, and the choice also on how to move ahead with their future together.

Greatly satisfying as well, is what happens to the Earl and the worst of his cohorts, and Tamsyn's abusers, and how Jowan and his friends bring about their ruin.

4.25 stars out of 5

Jude Knight is one of my favorite authors as she doesn't shy away from hard topics. This book deals lovingly with hard realities in terms of addictions and the fight to break free of them. It also speaks of steadfast love, even in the midst of life and possible misunderstandings. Love. Loyalty. Steadfastness. Acceptance. HEA. It doesn't get any better than this for Jowan, and Tamsyn.

Over the seven years since Jowan saw Tamsyn, she has become the renowned singer, Tammie Lind. Unfortunately, she has also become addicted to opium (and a variety of other substances). When the unscrupulous earl who has kept her refuses to allow Jowan, who still loves her, to see her, he becomes determined to rescue her. He makes a plan along with a group of friends. Will they succeed? Will Tamsyn win her battle? Hold Me Fast is an intense and emotional journey from darkness to light, from addiction to recovery, and from betrayal to love. It clearly demonstrates the power of love and friendship. The characters are wonderfully portrayed. Jowan is a great hero, to Tamsyn and others. When the evil earl shows up, he learns that when one wanders (or tries to escape) around in the dark, he should beware of things that go squish in the night. The story is thought provoking, the end happy and hopeful.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.

Could Their Love Survive Evil and the Test of Time?

Tamsyn's story is heartbreaking. Her mother conspires with the father of the man she loves to sell her to an evil earl. He will make her famous, but at what price? Seven years pass, and Tamsyn is in pieces. Will Jowan be able to get her out of the quagmire in which she finds herself? The wicked earl has her addicted to opium, and he sexually abuses her. Tamsyn will have much healing to do. We must never underestimate the power of love. If anything can heal the famous singer, love can do it. Jowan might be able to rescue Tamsyn, but the wicked earl won’t give her up so easily. How far will he go to get her back? Can Jowan and his love prevail?

I enjoyed this historical romance. I also found it difficult to read. If you have any triggers, please read with caution. This story deals with sexual abuse and drug addiction.

An emotionally moving love story that touches on hard subject matter of horrifying issues that are still common today, such as enforced servitude, hu.an trafficking, drug addictions, and withdrawal, physical, emotional and physical abuse. Thankfully, through friendship, amd time, and love that was meant to be persevered and a happy life was found in the end. I recommend reading.

Think ‘Moulan Rogue” remake in England. A singer whose benefactor wants her all to himself. Her first love pining for her return from her concert tour. Is the road to recovery and lost love worth the price?
I wasn’t totally enamored with the book but then again I read for downtime and me time. This book does deal with different types of abuse.
I really enjoy Jude’s book which is why I jumped in both feet first. I wasn’t totally into this book but it wasn’t completely off putting either.
if I had to choose between this book and another one of Judes book I’d choose the other book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with guidelines.

There's nothing wrong with this book except it was far too "dark" for me. I like fun and excitement in my reading. Sorry.

A gripping story with star-crossed love and second chance tropes that begins dark and oppressive and unfolds into a heartwarming journey of friendship, love, support, liberation and redemption.
Beware: if you feel triggered by alcohol/drug addiction and withdrawal (graphic), sexual abuse and exploitation (implied) and violence, then this book is not for you.
The plot is touching, very well written and well researched. Tamsyn's fate was close to my heart, even though I have not personally had any similar experiences except in my circle of acquaintances. I admired the strength and determination she needed to free herself from her old life. Jowan is a wonderful character and a cinnamon roll hero who stands by her side, accepts her for who she has become and rescues and supports her. I loved how their old love developed anew and even stronger despite all the circumstances and obstacles that had to face.
Their friends, helpers and the villagers were endearing supporting characters and there is a lovely second romance as well.
I found the tidbits about the original fairytale and drug use in this time in the author’s notes very interesting and informative.

The book can be read as standalone, even though you meet some characters from earlier books in the series.

Tamsyn and Jowan were friends and lovers in their youth, but Jowan's father, a baron from Cornwall, was against their relationship and sent her away with the Earl of Coombe to become a famous singer. As this was her big dream, she went along voluntarily. But the fulfilment of her dream also had its downsides: Coombe not only promoted her but also made her addicted to drugs and alcohol and used her fame and her body to extend his power in society. Her only escape from her misery are her drug-induced dreams. At a concert, she meets Jowan again, who offers to rescue her.
Although seven years have passed, he has inherited his father's title and dilapidated property, and Tamsyn has broken off contact with him, Jowan has never been able to forget Tamsyn. When business matters force him to go to London, he tries by all means to see her again. But the woman he meets at a concert is no longer the girl he knew. Nevertheless, he decides to rescue her and with the help of his brother new acquaintances they manage to escape and overcome her addiction but Coombe is determined to get her back under his control…

If you like timeless, touching and stirring fairy tale interpretations, you will certainly enjoy this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This story kept me glued to the pages with their drama and had me cheering them on to finding their happiness! I would recommend this book to all my friends and family.

This was much darker than some of this author’s other work but it did make for a captivating read. I loved the character of Jowan, he was such a loyal and understanding man, who had always loved Tamsyn and still did. I did feel for Tamsyn, to be blessed with talent and then to be exploited in such a way. I liked the way Jowan stood by her and didn’t give up, even though others tried to persuade him. There are some truly evil people but also good friends and I loved the ending when all the village worked together. I enjoyed the cameo roles of past characters. The villains got a deserved comeuppance, which I was pleased about. It also had a satisfying epilogue. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I did preorder my own copy.

I don't know where to start about this story. It was not the typical historical romance with balls, house parties, fake engagements, or any of the usual plots. Instead it is one of the most moving stories I have ever read about the love, friendship and horrific, horrifying experience of two souls who were meant to be together. Jowan and Tamsyn were committed to each other at sixteen. Tamsyn has a gift of music that is abused for years causing her to suffer in unimaginable ways. As she breaks free of her bondages, Jowan is there to help her. The depth of all the characters in this story are so incredibly deep, that the reader will be moved to extreme emotions. This author has written a story using both past fairytale stories as well as what takes place even today in both the music industry and in other areas. I whole heartedly recommend this book but I caution the reader to be prepared to walk away when finished with a story that will never leave you the same.

Childhood sweethearts Tamsyn Roskilly and Jowan Trethewey are ripped apart when her mother and his father conspire to sell Tamsyn to a music-loving earl. He promises to make her a famous singer, and to keep her from Jowan. Seven years later Tamsyn has become Tammie Lind, a sensational singing success. Jowan, now baronet in his father’s place, hears she has returned to England after a lengthy and successful tour of Europe and beyond. He travels to London to speak to her, but the Earl of Coombe continues to stand in their way. Jowan discovers that Tamsyn has become addicted to drugs and alcohol, supplied by the earl who has seduced, debased, and abused her. Their childhood romance may be over, but now he owes her a rescue. Jowan and his friends nurse her through withdrawal and help her make a new life in their home village.
The eighth book in the series & it’s easily read on its own but some of the author’s other characters do make appearances. I loved both Jowan & Tamsyn & was totally invested in them finding their HEA & what a journey it was. I loved Jowan who had matured into a strong, hard working caring man, his relationship with Bran said a lot about his character. Then there was Tamsyn, my heart bled for her as she had been controlled totally by Guy but she was amazingly strong & wanted to ‘be clean’, which was a journey in itself, the support & care she had was awesome. During her withdrawal we also had a secondary romance. The villain was truly despicable & deserved everything that finally happened to him. A slow burn, second chance romance, with wonderful characters & a beautiful epilogue that brought a tear to my eye
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own