DARE TO HOLD is Carly Phillips' sixth book in the Dare to Love series and like the others it can be read as a standalone and it's well worth the read. The story is full of alpha men, sizzling sex, family dynamics and all that goes with it. If you haven't read the other books in this series, the Dare family are combined families as a result of a secret that was well kept for years but it is finally revealed at the worse possible moment. And with that revelation comes hurt and humiliation. But the one thing that is very evident is that the Dare men are a very protective group of alpha males who always protect their loved ones. This is a great series that I recommend. This story deals with unexpected circumstances, abuse, and trying to become independent and put your life back together.

Kindergarten teacher Meg Thompson first encountered police officer Scott Dare when she was admitted to the hospital. The first time Scott saw Meg the alpha in him wanted to protect her. So when he sees her out with her girlfriends and they are trying to hook her up with a date, Scott knows he wants to be the only man she's with. From the moment they get together they can't stay away from each other. Scott has issues from his past that may derail any future with Meg. Meg is dealing with an abusive ex so she is insistent that she will not allow herself to be controlled by another man and that she has to be able to depend on herself.

This is a great story about letting others help when you need it and still being independent and also learning what real love is and how to have a successful and meaningful, lasting relationship.

If you're looking for stories about overprotective alpha males, sizzling heat with great entertainment I recommend the Dare to Love series. Well written!