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Always #1
It's Always Been You
Former Navy SEAL Travis Blake is a rising star in the security business. In two short years, Blake Security Inc. has become highly sought after by the who’s who in Washington DC.
But unbeknownst to many, Travis is haunted by the mysterious death of his wife three years before. He carries with him the guilt of not being there to protect the one person who meant everything to him. He has buried his wife, but his heart refuses to accept that the body six feet under is hers. His obsessive search for her leads him deep into the trenches of covert ops—and everything is not what it seems.
Caitlin Kincaid has been on the run for a while. The sum of her memories began three years ago when she awakened with a broken arm and leg and a severe concussion. Hunted down by a secret group within the U.S. government, her companion persuades her to stay off the grid because of the standing kill order on their heads. One night, while fleeing assassins, she is left on the side of the road with a cryptic message: “It’s time for you to stop running. I’m not the one you love.”
When Travis receives news that the woman who has turned up at the American Embassy in Berlin could be his wife, he wastes no time getting to her. He is unprepared for the devastation that shreds him when Caitlin looks at him with no recognition in her eyes. Amnesia is a challenging enough obstacle for winning the love of his life back. But with lies defining the past three years of her life, Caitlin becomes wary of anyone’s help.
Love was never the problem. A marriage cannot survive without trust. As sinister forces threaten the bond they are trying to rebuild, trust must come quickly or one of them will die.
* Strong sexual content and language. Disturbing situations.
But unbeknownst to many, Travis is haunted by the mysterious death of his wife three years before. He carries with him the guilt of not being there to protect the one person who meant everything to him. He has buried his wife, but his heart refuses to accept that the body six feet under is hers. His obsessive search for her leads him deep into the trenches of covert ops—and everything is not what it seems.
Caitlin Kincaid has been on the run for a while. The sum of her memories began three years ago when she awakened with a broken arm and leg and a severe concussion. Hunted down by a secret group within the U.S. government, her companion persuades her to stay off the grid because of the standing kill order on their heads. One night, while fleeing assassins, she is left on the side of the road with a cryptic message: “It’s time for you to stop running. I’m not the one you love.”
When Travis receives news that the woman who has turned up at the American Embassy in Berlin could be his wife, he wastes no time getting to her. He is unprepared for the devastation that shreds him when Caitlin looks at him with no recognition in her eyes. Amnesia is a challenging enough obstacle for winning the love of his life back. But with lies defining the past three years of her life, Caitlin becomes wary of anyone’s help.
Love was never the problem. A marriage cannot survive without trust. As sinister forces threaten the bond they are trying to rebuild, trust must come quickly or one of them will die.
* Strong sexual content and language. Disturbing situations.
ebook
First published July 9, 2014
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About the author
Victoria Paige
31 books982 followersVictoria Paige writes smart, edgy, seductive romance.
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
dnf
February 26, 2015DNF @ 45%
Aaaaaaaannnnd we're done.
Because...
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This book had a cool and exciting premise that it just didn't live up to. Things fall flat and the characters' actions just don't ring true for me.
This chick has been missing - presumed dead - for 3 years, people. We aren't just gonna "hit the ground running."
Travis says he OMG LOVES her for who she is now and not who she was pre-amnesia, three years ago...
But I call bullshit.
He doesn't even know who she is now.
And up until 3 months ago (the author "conveniently" built in an obvious 3 month "safety bubble" so we readers wouldn't get a case of the skeevies) she was banging some other guy...the only person she really "knows."
Not to mention, she just finds out that said other guy - the only one she actually knows and (to reiterate) has been banging for the last few years - has died.
And yet, within three weeks, we are supposed to believe that she's supposedly gotten over that and is now sex, sex, and more sex-ing the shit out of Travis?
Speaking of Travis, what a flat character.
Oh, and this:
"Oh fuck me! Her feminine musk. He missed this. The taste of her finally on his tongue..."
"...He growled and feasted ferociously."
(50 pages later)
"He spread her legs wider; then he leaned in and feasted..."
"...His tongue laved the addictive nectar glistening from her core."
Nectar???
But the pièce de résistance?
"Caitlin tried her damndest not to look south of his ridged ab muscles. But his sexy hip bone and that dusting of hair trailing from his navel down to his WEAPON OF MASS ORGASM, simply made it difficult."
Wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute...
Was that a "Weapon of Mass Destruction" play on words?
Oh my Lord it WAS.
Oh man...*wipes tears from eyes*
Aaaaaaaannnnd we're done.
Because...
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This book had a cool and exciting premise that it just didn't live up to. Things fall flat and the characters' actions just don't ring true for me.
This chick has been missing - presumed dead - for 3 years, people. We aren't just gonna "hit the ground running."
Travis says he OMG LOVES her for who she is now and not who she was pre-amnesia, three years ago...
But I call bullshit.
He doesn't even know who she is now.
And up until 3 months ago (the author "conveniently" built in an obvious 3 month "safety bubble" so we readers wouldn't get a case of the skeevies) she was banging some other guy...the only person she really "knows."
Not to mention, she just finds out that said other guy - the only one she actually knows and (to reiterate) has been banging for the last few years - has died.
And yet, within three weeks, we are supposed to believe that she's supposedly gotten over that and is now sex, sex, and more sex-ing the shit out of Travis?
Speaking of Travis, what a flat character.
Oh, and this:
"Oh fuck me! Her feminine musk. He missed this. The taste of her finally on his tongue..."
"...He growled and feasted ferociously."
(50 pages later)
"He spread her legs wider; then he leaned in and feasted..."
"...His tongue laved the addictive nectar glistening from her core."
Nectar???
But the pièce de résistance?
"Caitlin tried her damndest not to look south of his ridged ab muscles. But his sexy hip bone and that dusting of hair trailing from his navel down to his WEAPON OF MASS ORGASM, simply made it difficult."
Wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute...
Was that a "Weapon of Mass Destruction" play on words?
Oh my Lord it WAS.
Oh man...*wipes tears from eyes*
July 17, 2014
4.5 ALPHA STARS!!!
I can't begin to explain how much I loved this book! I just saw a friend's review comparing it to Kristen Ashley, and those were my exact thoughts while reading this book! Kristen Ashley but BETTER!!!
Now I don't want any confusion, this is not a Dark Romance, what it is is an action packed romantic suspense! I think the author must have done so much research into military and government protocols, because the amount of detail that went into this book was OUTSTANDING!!!
A STRONG POSSESSIVE ALPHA
AN INTELLIGENT AND STRONG HEROINE
ESPIONAGE
WEAPONS DEALING
CRAZY BIKERS
BADASS MILITARY MEN
HOT AS FUCK SEX
AN ENDEARING ROMANCE
Those are just some of the reasons this book was so amazing! My reading material has become so limited lately and it's my own fault. I love hot, smutty romance, but with the recent I've felt overwhelmed. I'm old school, I like my romance hot as fuck but I never venture out of my comfort zone and I don't think I ever will!
A little bit about the tale
Travis Blake is an ex Navy SEAL, he now runs an elite security company. He lost his wife beloved wife three years. When news of the fact that she is alive surfaces, he is elated. He's never lost hope. But those hopes are dashed when she doesn't recognise him. Sarah Blake is now Caitlin Kincaid, she has amnesia and has recently lost her lover. The man standing before her claims he's her husband but besides the visceral connection she feels when he's close, she has no memories of him.
When Travis realises that there is a threat to her life, he's determined to do everything to protect her. He won't lose her for a second time. What follows is non-stop action and suspense, all while Travis tries to make his wife fall in love with him again.
End of extended synopsis "Christine Style"
"That was fate babe." he whispered, his voice laden with tenderness. "Never had a relationship in my life, and in one night, it just hit me. You took my breath away, and I handed you my heart. I was a goner."
The SWOONS were endless, Travis is possessive, controlling, jealous but he wears his heart on his sleeve. And the sweet words that came out of his mouth were just as swoon worthy as his dirty talk! This guy has now been added to my BEST BOOK BOYFRIENDS.
"Ah...babe," he whispered. I'd walk through hell for you, as long as you'll be waiting for me on the other side. I'll go through anything for you. I'll bear all your pain, sunshine.
OMG! Do you see what I mean???? I think I've found an automatic one click author! I wish I'd finished this book last weekend because it was only 99 pennies and I could have told everyone!
So if you're looking for a HOT ALPHA MALE and a STRONG KICKASS HEROINE, this book is for you. Be ready for fast paced, non stop action and exciting twists and turns. Oh and a great romance!
You married a SEAL. We're tenacious, persistent, and we don't know how to fail. You think with the greatest battle in my life and that's winning you back-I'm going to fuck up now? Not happening. You were mine. You will be mine again.
I can't begin to explain how much I loved this book! I just saw a friend's review comparing it to Kristen Ashley, and those were my exact thoughts while reading this book! Kristen Ashley but BETTER!!!
Now I don't want any confusion, this is not a Dark Romance, what it is is an action packed romantic suspense! I think the author must have done so much research into military and government protocols, because the amount of detail that went into this book was OUTSTANDING!!!
A STRONG POSSESSIVE ALPHA
AN INTELLIGENT AND STRONG HEROINE
ESPIONAGE
WEAPONS DEALING
CRAZY BIKERS
BADASS MILITARY MEN
HOT AS FUCK SEX
AN ENDEARING ROMANCE
Those are just some of the reasons this book was so amazing! My reading material has become so limited lately and it's my own fault. I love hot, smutty romance, but with the recent I've felt overwhelmed. I'm old school, I like my romance hot as fuck but I never venture out of my comfort zone and I don't think I ever will!
A little bit about the tale
Travis Blake is an ex Navy SEAL, he now runs an elite security company. He lost his wife beloved wife three years. When news of the fact that she is alive surfaces, he is elated. He's never lost hope. But those hopes are dashed when she doesn't recognise him. Sarah Blake is now Caitlin Kincaid, she has amnesia and has recently lost her lover. The man standing before her claims he's her husband but besides the visceral connection she feels when he's close, she has no memories of him.
When Travis realises that there is a threat to her life, he's determined to do everything to protect her. He won't lose her for a second time. What follows is non-stop action and suspense, all while Travis tries to make his wife fall in love with him again.
End of extended synopsis "Christine Style"
"That was fate babe." he whispered, his voice laden with tenderness. "Never had a relationship in my life, and in one night, it just hit me. You took my breath away, and I handed you my heart. I was a goner."
The SWOONS were endless, Travis is possessive, controlling, jealous but he wears his heart on his sleeve. And the sweet words that came out of his mouth were just as swoon worthy as his dirty talk! This guy has now been added to my BEST BOOK BOYFRIENDS.
"Ah...babe," he whispered. I'd walk through hell for you, as long as you'll be waiting for me on the other side. I'll go through anything for you. I'll bear all your pain, sunshine.
OMG! Do you see what I mean???? I think I've found an automatic one click author! I wish I'd finished this book last weekend because it was only 99 pennies and I could have told everyone!
So if you're looking for a HOT ALPHA MALE and a STRONG KICKASS HEROINE, this book is for you. Be ready for fast paced, non stop action and exciting twists and turns. Oh and a great romance!
You married a SEAL. We're tenacious, persistent, and we don't know how to fail. You think with the greatest battle in my life and that's winning you back-I'm going to fuck up now? Not happening. You were mine. You will be mine again.
Read
September 24, 2019Always been you except for those other women I slept with while you were supposedly dead but I knew you really weren't and yet I slept with them anyway. Such devotion. Makes me want to hurl.😷
September 23, 2014
Title:It's Always Been You
Series:Always #1
Author:Victoria Paige
Release date: July 9 , 2014
Rating:5 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
This book is one of those that really has it all. You name it, it's probably in this book. You like bikers? Mobsters? Alpha heroes? Lots of action and suspense? Plot twists? Paranormal elements? Combustible chemistry between the heroine and hero that is hot and steamy? Suspense that never stops and always keeps you guessing?......Every one of those things are in this book. I think the only thing missing was a rockstar and an athlete. Throw those in and any romance reader could be satisfied at some point in this book. But seriously, this book is an exceptional romantic suspense with an amazing couple!
Admittedly, I wasn't fully sold on the amnesia aspect of the plot-these can get so unrealistic or hokey but by the end, I was a believer-I think it was explored in a natural feeling way. Both the heroine and hero had a lot to overcome emotionally regarding her memory loss. In the three years since Travis lost his beloved wife, he's still unable to let her memory go. They have a deep connection-always have, and he feels that if that connection was snapped he would feel it. He doesn't.
She's still on this earth. He knows it. And this ex Navy Seal started his own security business in Washington in order to pursue any clue he can find. Just when he starts to believe he may be searching in vain, he gets a call that his wife has been found. But the people she's been running from for three years are just as interested as him in getting to her. The woman has a whole multitude of people out to kill her.
The Russian Mob, secret government agencies, a long lost husband that she has no memory of....
She gets one hell of a surprise when Travis walks in to claim the woman he loves. And so does he. He's a stranger to her.
But a little memory loss is not holding him back. He's total alpha all the way through. He could bring her memories back for her through sheer determination and will alone. This man is not going to let anything come between them again.
Along with her memory, her trust is gone as well. She believes the things he tells her about her past, but believing and feeling are two different things. Travis' biggest difficulty in forming a bond with his wife again is taking things slow.
She was his world. The notion should scare him, but deep down, he knew he wouldn't have it any other way. He lived and breathed for her.
I really felt bad for the guy-he's insanely in love with her and super possessive and he's got to rein in his alpha tendencies. Poor thing. Well, luckily for us readers, he doesn't do that great of a job of it. When I tell you this man would battle the devil himself in order to protect her...I ain't lying.
He goes up against the mob, gang members, secret government agents, and anyone who questions his commitment to her. He is badass.
From the moment they reconnect, they have un unbelievable amount of hurdles to overcome. This is not your average couple with their average problems. As her trust is rebuilt, they slowly become a team again. Working to clear a path to make a future together possible.
I love you, Caitlin." His eyes were searching.
She pressed a light kiss on his lips and said, "I'm getting there, Travis."
"I'll wait forever, sunshine. I loved you then. I love you now. I'll always love you."
This book was packed full of suspense-I loved how I was kept guessing about who was out to get her. Just when I thought I knew who the antagonist was, I was wrong. I was surprised more than once. This was such a well planned out and executed book-I was totally impressed with Victoria Paige's ability to draw me into the story literally from the first page. And the heroine was really someone who I could empathize and connect with. She was intelligent, brave, and contained quite a bit of badass-ery (Hey, it could be a word!) of her own. This book really hit the spot in many ways, I have to say I loved every minute of it. I'm looking forward to checking out more from this author in the coming books in the series!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
July 19, 2014
I really enjoyed this read. Of course I fell in love with our lead Alpha male Travis he was just the right mix of all things overbearing, hot, sensual, possessive, loving & protective.
I loved watching the dynamic play out with he & Caitlin as well. There was plenty of emotional, mental, & physical chemistry to witness with these two.
But what made their story just.. more for me, was the surrounding plot involving them. So many twists and "OMG! I thought I knew where this was going, but I was SO wrong" reveals. And I must say I loved that. It kept me intrigued throughout the entire novel. Things just kept popping up & happening. I was like... "Damn! What's gonna happen next?!" Maybe this is why I felt like I was never going to finish the book? I never hit a slow or dragging point within the novel, but I was wondering why it took me so long to finish it. This isn't a bad thing though :D
Nothing felt rushed here or like it was just left there either. Like it was forgotten about by the time the story comes to a close. I love how all the things that were introduced here, was brought to a close or left you with a clear impression that you would be returning to it in future books, but without that dreaded feeling/thing, called a "Cliffy".
There is a clear set up here for another book. But I love how it was balanced within the story and how it didn't take away from anything concerning our main characters or their plight. It all flowed well & had a purpose. So this was awesome for me.
I would say this is a solid, intriguing, erotic & suspenseful intro to a series. It has me curious about what's to come in the next & future books. I would definitely recommend this read.
I loved watching the dynamic play out with he & Caitlin as well. There was plenty of emotional, mental, & physical chemistry to witness with these two.
But what made their story just.. more for me, was the surrounding plot involving them. So many twists and "OMG! I thought I knew where this was going, but I was SO wrong" reveals. And I must say I loved that. It kept me intrigued throughout the entire novel. Things just kept popping up & happening. I was like... "Damn! What's gonna happen next?!" Maybe this is why I felt like I was never going to finish the book? I never hit a slow or dragging point within the novel, but I was wondering why it took me so long to finish it. This isn't a bad thing though :D
Nothing felt rushed here or like it was just left there either. Like it was forgotten about by the time the story comes to a close. I love how all the things that were introduced here, was brought to a close or left you with a clear impression that you would be returning to it in future books, but without that dreaded feeling/thing, called a "Cliffy".
There is a clear set up here for another book. But I love how it was balanced within the story and how it didn't take away from anything concerning our main characters or their plight. It all flowed well & had a purpose. So this was awesome for me.
I would say this is a solid, intriguing, erotic & suspenseful intro to a series. It has me curious about what's to come in the next & future books. I would definitely recommend this read.
July 15, 2014
After sitting here and writing a review, Goodreads decided to spaz on me and not save it! And after letting lose some colorful words that would make a sailor blush, I decided that this book is just THAT good and deserves for me to take the time to write it a-fucking-gain!
OK, so where were we...
I FUCKING LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!!!!! It was my first by Victoria Paige but it will most definitely not be the last. I honestly thought no one could write an alpha as good as Kristen Ashley...I WAS WRONG. Oh, so wrong. Let me just tell you, Travis Blake was in a league of his own and if VP continues to write her alphas this well, she will be too. BRAVO Ms. Paige and a hat's off to you! CAN. NOT. WAIT. to read more from this author.
What did this book have that made it so great?
- A hot alpha badass with a fierce and unwavering love for his woman
- A strong willed and independent though not annoying heroine
- A love that defied everything, including time itself!
- A beautiful heart racing, wrenching, and warming story
- Lots of swooning
- Suspense
- Bikers!
- Assassins
- Laugh out loud moments
- Action
- STEAM STEAM STEAM *fans self*
- The best "side characters" and more alpha badasses ;)
- The perfect ending <3
If those aren't enough reasons to pick up this book, let me leave you with just a few of my many highlighted passages:
“That right there tells me otherwise. We’ll find each other again. And, sunshine, you’re not building a wall between us because I’ll take it down with a sledgehammer. Fucking amnesia has nothing on us, Caitlin. What we had before was once in a lifetime. You think having it, losing it, and getting it back, I’m going to let it slip through my fingers again? You married a SEAL. We’re tenacious, persistent, and we don’t know how to fail. You think with the greatest battle in my life, and that’s winning you back- I’m going to fuck up now? Not happening. You were mine. You will be mine again.”
“And this time, I’ll personally kill anyone who will try to take you away from me. That I promise.”
“I’d do it all over again, Nate,” he continued. “Make her fall in love with me. I don’t care if it takes weeks or months. As long as I have her. I’ll love her enough for both of us until she’ll learn to love me again.”
I STRONGLY recommend this book, especially to all my fellow KA lovers! Trust, READ IT, then come tell me how amazing I am for introducing you to this book ;)
OK, so where were we...
I FUCKING LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!!!!! It was my first by Victoria Paige but it will most definitely not be the last. I honestly thought no one could write an alpha as good as Kristen Ashley...I WAS WRONG. Oh, so wrong. Let me just tell you, Travis Blake was in a league of his own and if VP continues to write her alphas this well, she will be too. BRAVO Ms. Paige and a hat's off to you! CAN. NOT. WAIT. to read more from this author.
What did this book have that made it so great?
- A hot alpha badass with a fierce and unwavering love for his woman
- A strong willed and independent though not annoying heroine
- A love that defied everything, including time itself!
- A beautiful heart racing, wrenching, and warming story
- Lots of swooning
- Suspense
- Bikers!
- Assassins
- Laugh out loud moments
- Action
- STEAM STEAM STEAM *fans self*
- The best "side characters" and more alpha badasses ;)
- The perfect ending <3
If those aren't enough reasons to pick up this book, let me leave you with just a few of my many highlighted passages:
“That right there tells me otherwise. We’ll find each other again. And, sunshine, you’re not building a wall between us because I’ll take it down with a sledgehammer. Fucking amnesia has nothing on us, Caitlin. What we had before was once in a lifetime. You think having it, losing it, and getting it back, I’m going to let it slip through my fingers again? You married a SEAL. We’re tenacious, persistent, and we don’t know how to fail. You think with the greatest battle in my life, and that’s winning you back- I’m going to fuck up now? Not happening. You were mine. You will be mine again.”
“And this time, I’ll personally kill anyone who will try to take you away from me. That I promise.”
“I’d do it all over again, Nate,” he continued. “Make her fall in love with me. I don’t care if it takes weeks or months. As long as I have her. I’ll love her enough for both of us until she’ll learn to love me again.”
I STRONGLY recommend this book, especially to all my fellow KA lovers! Trust, READ IT, then come tell me how amazing I am for introducing you to this book ;)
February 18, 2015
***3.5 Stars***
Great action, suspense, twists and turns and plenty of steam. It bears singling out that the steam is SCORCHING in this book!
Caitlin was no damsel in distress and proved to be a badass leading lady. Travis, though a smoking hot badass himself, has many moments where he tipped the scale to over the top. I found that he was quite selfish at times focusing on his agonizing three years without Caitlin, without giving much consideration to how she feels and the frustration she was going through in not having her memory. He was also very quick to react to things without thinking first. I think if I added it up, he probably spent half of the book apologizing for his actions.
Overall, an enjoyable read and my first book by Victoria Paige. She set up the next couple quite nicely and I definitely find myself intrigued.
August 11, 2014
FOUR TO FOUR AND A HALF STARS!
When it comes to a man in uniform, especially if that uniform is of the military variety, you should know that I'm absolutely shameless and willbend right overdo anything to get my hands on a good read. So when I saw this for $1.05 on Amazon, my one click skills knew no bounds. And after reading a mate's glowing review on this, I had to shake my head at myself for not reading this book sooner.
It's Always Been You is the story of Travis Blake reuniting with his wife, a wife that had been presumed dead for the past three years and who, devastatingly enough, does not remember him. Finding out that she was married is a huge shock for Caitlin Kincaid (formerly known as Sarah Blake), especially considering the fact that she had been lovers with the man she'd been previously on the run with for the past three years. As Travis and Caitlin work to put this issue behind them and contend with her memory loss, the danger Caitlyn has been in catches up with them and Travis must face the very real possibility of losing Caitlin a second time.
I loved this book. Loved Travis and his overbearing ways, loved Caitlin and her kick-ass style, and loved their messy relationship. I found Travis a bit OTT at certain sections of the book, but I could certainly understand where he was coming from. His heartbreak is so very real and his emotions concerning Caitlyn are intense. He loves her, he absolutely loves her. So with all that intensity for her burning through him, its no surprise when he has trouble reigning in his emotions over her.
Caitlin Kincaid. That woman is so bloody amazing that it's unreal. I love when authors write strong female leads, but I absolutely flail like a silly lunatic when the strong female lead can also take down buff guys. Literally. Caitlin definitely held her own in this book against the men who were after her, and her smart retorts in the face of danger had me fist pumping. But what also had me cheering was the fact that she was no doormat when it came to Travis. He might be overbearing but she more than held her own against him and wasn't afraid to voice when he was in the wrong and talk it out.
The action in this book is unreal. I loved it, I could tell that the author did a lot of research and it reflected in the story telling. There were quite a lot of characters featured, and whilst I can understand how it could be a problem for readers, I didn't find it problematic at all. You can't wade into international waters with mafias and alphabet agencies and not expect for there to be quite a number of players. That's what made it all very realistic to me. As for the other "action" in the book *cough cough*, I'm still trying to recover from it. I'm not afraid to admit that it was smoking and I'm sure I'll be in for some very creative daydreams later at work today.
So, why not five stars? It's no secret that this book was able to draw plenty of reactions from me (Jase playing a huge factor in those reactionsand I'm happy that selfish bastard was killed), and coupled with the non-stop action, usually that would be enough to rate it five stars. However, I wasn't completely wowed because whilst I understood where Travis was coming from, he still was a bit much for me at times. Not to mention, when he wanted to make a point (which was most of the time), the author had a tendency to hyphenate the words in his sentences (see above quote). Though understandable, I wasn't a big fan of this kind of style. The other thing was that at certain sections of the book, I felt like the writing style became a bit disjointed. It wasn't completely smooth like the other sections of the book, which kinda threw me off.
Overall, I definitely enjoyed this and my heart is pounding for the next book in this series. Next year seems soooo far away! *sobs theatrically*
When it comes to a man in uniform, especially if that uniform is of the military variety, you should know that I'm absolutely shameless and will
It's Always Been You is the story of Travis Blake reuniting with his wife, a wife that had been presumed dead for the past three years and who, devastatingly enough, does not remember him. Finding out that she was married is a huge shock for Caitlin Kincaid (formerly known as Sarah Blake), especially considering the fact that she had been lovers with the man she'd been previously on the run with for the past three years. As Travis and Caitlin work to put this issue behind them and contend with her memory loss, the danger Caitlyn has been in catches up with them and Travis must face the very real possibility of losing Caitlin a second time.
I loved this book. Loved Travis and his overbearing ways, loved Caitlin and her kick-ass style, and loved their messy relationship. I found Travis a bit OTT at certain sections of the book, but I could certainly understand where he was coming from. His heartbreak is so very real and his emotions concerning Caitlyn are intense. He loves her, he absolutely loves her. So with all that intensity for her burning through him, its no surprise when he has trouble reigning in his emotions over her.
"Goddamnit!" Travis shouted and he would have punched out a wall if he could. His eyes landed on Caitlin, his voice turning hoarse. "I can't keep you safe. My own wife. I can't fucking keep you safe."
Caitlin Kincaid. That woman is so bloody amazing that it's unreal. I love when authors write strong female leads, but I absolutely flail like a silly lunatic when the strong female lead can also take down buff guys. Literally. Caitlin definitely held her own in this book against the men who were after her, and her smart retorts in the face of danger had me fist pumping. But what also had me cheering was the fact that she was no doormat when it came to Travis. He might be overbearing but she more than held her own against him and wasn't afraid to voice when he was in the wrong and talk it out.
"I do stupid shit."
"I know."
"I've got a bad temper."
"I know that, too. And you need to rein in that jealous streak of yours. I've been meaning to lay in on you about nearly strangling Nate."
Travis scowled. "I squared that away with him."
"Oh, is that why he's so tentative when he hugs me?"
Her husband looked away.
"Travis?"
"What?"
"Shut it down."
The action in this book is unreal. I loved it, I could tell that the author did a lot of research and it reflected in the story telling. There were quite a lot of characters featured, and whilst I can understand how it could be a problem for readers, I didn't find it problematic at all. You can't wade into international waters with mafias and alphabet agencies and not expect for there to be quite a number of players. That's what made it all very realistic to me. As for the other "action" in the book *cough cough*, I'm still trying to recover from it. I'm not afraid to admit that it was smoking and I'm sure I'll be in for some very creative daydreams later at work today.
He shifted her slightly in his arms and looked into her eyes. "Shut it down, Caitlin."
"What?"
"Shut it down," he repeated.
"My laptop? But I'm on a roll."
His hand dug into the back of her head, pulling her closer. He said against her lips, "Shut-it-down. Because in less than sixty seconds, you'll be flat on your back, your legs spread, with my mouth fucking that pussy."
So, why not five stars? It's no secret that this book was able to draw plenty of reactions from me (Jase playing a huge factor in those reactions
Overall, I definitely enjoyed this and my heart is pounding for the next book in this series. Next year seems soooo far away! *sobs theatrically*
March 18, 2022
Almost 4 stars.
Loved how emotional the story was, but it did get to be a bit too cheesy-sweet towards the end.
Basic story: h, the wife, is presumed dead for 3 years, but she's alive of course and has amnesia.
Safety info:
Her childhood guy-friend took her when she was injured and lied about their relationship. For 3 years, because she had amnesia, she was in a relationship and was having sex with the om.
The H was told she died, and they had DNA evidence that it was her body. After 9 months, he tried and did sleep with multiple ow -for 3 months- to get over his pain, but he said he stopped trying after that because it was no use (he was calling our h's name in bed with ow). So he was celibate for years after that.
When clues about her past came to light, he started looking for her hoping she was alive, and he does end up finding her.
As a safety reader, this book didn't bother me.
- no ow/om drama after they're back together. Some girl tried to seduce him but he didn't react and found her annoying.
- the H is SUPER obsessed, SUPER jealous, and OTT in love. (why I said it was cheesy sweet).
- no cheating (he thought her dead, she didn't know she had a hub).
Loved how emotional the story was, but it did get to be a bit too cheesy-sweet towards the end.
Basic story: h, the wife, is presumed dead for 3 years, but she's alive of course and has amnesia.
Safety info:
Her childhood guy-friend took her when she was injured and lied about their relationship. For 3 years, because she had amnesia, she was in a relationship and was having sex with the om.
The H was told she died, and they had DNA evidence that it was her body. After 9 months, he tried and did sleep with multiple ow -for 3 months- to get over his pain, but he said he stopped trying after that because it was no use (he was calling our h's name in bed with ow). So he was celibate for years after that.
When clues about her past came to light, he started looking for her hoping she was alive, and he does end up finding her.
As a safety reader, this book didn't bother me.
- no ow/om drama after they're back together. Some girl tried to seduce him but he didn't react and found her annoying.
- the H is SUPER obsessed, SUPER jealous, and OTT in love. (why I said it was cheesy sweet).
- no cheating (he thought her dead, she didn't know she had a hub).
Read
July 21, 2014Will not be rating this as I DNF!
Reading the blurb of this book grabbed my attention, unfortunately the content couldn't sustain it for long. There was information overload at the beginning of the book and the characters did not seem deep or believable- I just couldn't connect with our protagonists or feel their own connection as a couple.
While Travis was a perfect hero, loyal, loving and possessive - He wasn't a mystery, we were privy to his every thought and I quickly grew bored.
Neither the suspense nor the romance elements were enough to engage me for long. I stopped at 30%, went back to it to see if it picks up, sadly I DNF at 50%.
Reading the blurb of this book grabbed my attention, unfortunately the content couldn't sustain it for long. There was information overload at the beginning of the book and the characters did not seem deep or believable- I just couldn't connect with our protagonists or feel their own connection as a couple.
While Travis was a perfect hero, loyal, loving and possessive - He wasn't a mystery, we were privy to his every thought and I quickly grew bored.
Neither the suspense nor the romance elements were enough to engage me for long. I stopped at 30%, went back to it to see if it picks up, sadly I DNF at 50%.
July 7, 2014
"I like it rough. You do too. And how long you keep me from sinking my cock into your pussy will be proportional to how many days you’ll still be feeling me between your legs— long— after— I’ve—fucked— you,” Travis clarified. “I intend to fuck you every day. Which means, every hour, every minute, and every fucking second, you’ll be feeling me inside you..."
I was so excited to get an early copy of this book! It's been at the top of my TBR list since I read the blurb. As a total sucker for back from the dead story lines and damsels in distress with amnesia (and no,I'm not embarrassed about that!), it was pretty much instant love for me as soon as I started It's Always Been you! The story pulled me in immediately and never let go. Travis is the perfect hero, so dedicated and in love with his wife. Total alpha, totally hot!
"Babe, don't. Don't come near me right now." His voice was guttural and rife with warning. "If you don't want to get fucked over this kitchen counter, keep your disance."
That made her stop dead in her tracks.
"My control is at it's end, sunshine." Travis tried to force a smile through his tense features. "Three years of longing, having you so close to me now, I just want to haul you under me and sink myself so deep inside you, feel your warmth around me gripping me, making sure that you're really here, and it's not a fucking dream."
The book was a great mix of sexy, sweet, heartwarming, wild...I don't want to give anything away but there was a certain confrontation between the two main characters that was particularly intense towards the end and really got me. There's also some interesting supporting characters introduced that I feel certain will be popping up with their own stories at some point in the future.
Over the top alphalicious hero, solid writing, and lots of steamy sexy bits made It's Always Been You a great, fun read! Definitely going in my "re-read/comfort read" pile! I look forward to see what comes next from this author.
I was so excited to get an early copy of this book! It's been at the top of my TBR list since I read the blurb. As a total sucker for back from the dead story lines and damsels in distress with amnesia (and no,I'm not embarrassed about that!), it was pretty much instant love for me as soon as I started It's Always Been you! The story pulled me in immediately and never let go. Travis is the perfect hero, so dedicated and in love with his wife. Total alpha, totally hot!
"Babe, don't. Don't come near me right now." His voice was guttural and rife with warning. "If you don't want to get fucked over this kitchen counter, keep your disance."
That made her stop dead in her tracks.
"My control is at it's end, sunshine." Travis tried to force a smile through his tense features. "Three years of longing, having you so close to me now, I just want to haul you under me and sink myself so deep inside you, feel your warmth around me gripping me, making sure that you're really here, and it's not a fucking dream."
The book was a great mix of sexy, sweet, heartwarming, wild...I don't want to give anything away but there was a certain confrontation between the two main characters that was particularly intense towards the end and really got me. There's also some interesting supporting characters introduced that I feel certain will be popping up with their own stories at some point in the future.
Over the top alphalicious hero, solid writing, and lots of steamy sexy bits made It's Always Been You a great, fun read! Definitely going in my "re-read/comfort read" pile! I look forward to see what comes next from this author.
July 16, 2014
I don't usually give 5 star reviews but this book was amazing!!!!! It kept me guessing at every turn! CIA ... Amnesia... Who-done-it... Deep undercover agents.. Mind-manipulations... And an undying love that bubbled to the surface even if Caitlin couldn't remember her husband
.. They were truly meant to be and that ending.. Sugar sweet but their life wasn't perfect and that was what made them perfect!
And the sex...
All in all I loved it!
And book 2... Please be Bee and Gabe!!
.. They were truly meant to be and that ending.. Sugar sweet but their life wasn't perfect and that was what made them perfect!
And the sex...
All in all I loved it!
And book 2... Please be Bee and Gabe!!
July 16, 2014
This one didn't do it for me, sadly. At 44% I was searching for my next book to read. At 67% I started to skim.
Travis was a former Navy SEAL, with the alpha personality. I love me a good alpha male. Caitlin was his wife, who he once thought was dead and buried. She's back 3 years later and has no memory of anything other than the last 3 years. He had no idea she was in the CIA ( and that totally didn't make sense to me)
I thought Travis was a pretty good dirty talker and I quite enjoyed those moments. They were probably, for me, the most interesting. Normally I like amnesia stories, because they keep you guessing constantly, trying to fill in the blanks. This one wasn't as interesting and at 44% I was bored, and I almost quit. But I thought maybe things will get better, hotter, something BIG was bound to happen.
That BIG?? It never happened. The sex was mediocre. It was hot, but brief. Travis could be bossy and demanding, and then a total softie. I didn't feel much suspense considering the military/CIA aspect, fake deaths, mobsters and bad guys. Part of it I was able to figure out. The conclusion could have been been a big BANG, but it was (for me) a big BUST..
Travis was a former Navy SEAL, with the alpha personality. I love me a good alpha male. Caitlin was his wife, who he once thought was dead and buried. She's back 3 years later and has no memory of anything other than the last 3 years. He had no idea she was in the CIA ( and that totally didn't make sense to me)
I thought Travis was a pretty good dirty talker and I quite enjoyed those moments. They were probably, for me, the most interesting. Normally I like amnesia stories, because they keep you guessing constantly, trying to fill in the blanks. This one wasn't as interesting and at 44% I was bored, and I almost quit. But I thought maybe things will get better, hotter, something BIG was bound to happen.
That BIG?? It never happened. The sex was mediocre. It was hot, but brief. Travis could be bossy and demanding, and then a total softie. I didn't feel much suspense considering the military/CIA aspect, fake deaths, mobsters and bad guys. Part of it I was able to figure out. The conclusion could have been been a big BANG, but it was (for me) a big BUST..
Read
July 1, 2022DNF @ 53%
I do love an amnesia/back from the dead romance, but I’m not feeling this one. The blurb sets this up nicely, Travis was DEVASTATED after his wife’s death and still struggling when he receives a call that a woman visiting a foreign embassy may be his beloved wife.
It started out ok, but things started to go a bit sideways when the plot veered from focusing on the couple. Honestly, I think there’s just too much craziness jammed into the book sandwich (amnesia, OMG your’re alive, CIA secret soldier program, She-Hulk, Berserker anti-serum, Russian mob, assassins, kidnapping biker gangs) for me in my current reading mood. Things keep getting more and more ridiculous, and his weapon of mass orgasm cock and Big Dick Duke have pushed me over the edge. I might revisit later when I’m in a better mood. :)
Safety- Nine months after her death (dead body had her DNA), he had a few ONS during a 3-month bender. He’s been celibate the last 2-years. She slept with a man during those 3 years (except last 3-months) while she had amnesia.
I do love an amnesia/back from the dead romance, but I’m not feeling this one. The blurb sets this up nicely, Travis was DEVASTATED after his wife’s death and still struggling when he receives a call that a woman visiting a foreign embassy may be his beloved wife.
It started out ok, but things started to go a bit sideways when the plot veered from focusing on the couple. Honestly, I think there’s just too much craziness jammed into the book sandwich (amnesia, OMG your’re alive, CIA secret soldier program, She-Hulk, Berserker anti-serum, Russian mob, assassins, kidnapping biker gangs) for me in my current reading mood. Things keep getting more and more ridiculous, and his weapon of mass orgasm cock and Big Dick Duke have pushed me over the edge. I might revisit later when I’m in a better mood. :)
Safety- Nine months after her death (dead body had her DNA), he had a few ONS during a 3-month bender. He’s been celibate the last 2-years. She slept with a man during those 3 years (except last 3-months) while she had amnesia.
July 12, 2014
4 Intense, Suspenseful Stars!
A story that is packed with suspense that includes a twist that I didn’t pick up on until it was upon me. ‘Intense’ was my first impression of this story and that intensity stayed with me right up until the final scene. Entwined in the suspense is a story of unrelenting passion.
"It’s time for you to stop running. I’m not the one you love."
Caitlyn thinks she has her world under control until a sudden ambush has her forced to deal with a sanctuary that feels anything but safe.
“From no warrants to three people asking to see you, something tells me you’re in big trouble, lady.”
Travis has the means, the ability and the drive to prove what he knows in his heart is true. He is desperate to have his wife back but that’s not going to be easy. They are part of society that has them working and dealing with issues that are bigger than the individual. It’s a world that had separated them with lifestyles that make building, let alone rekindling a relationship near impossible. Add to that Caitlyn’s amnesia and it was obvious to all except Travis that gaining her trust, let alone her love again was going to take time.
Travis and Caitlyn are easy characters to connect with but his lack of patience and determination makes for an interesting time ahead. He is not prepared to settle for anything less than having her in his arms again. Caitlyn is far from being on the same page, instead her focus is on trying to fathom out her situation. Instinct has her on alert. Surrounded by strangers, she has to decide whom and what to believe. She needs to remember. Others relying on her to regain her memory. And all are prepared to do what ever it takes to achieve this.
What I enjoyed:
• The suspense
• The detour home
• The entertaining ‘mix up’ with the bikers
• The final scene – the view was serene and picture perfect!
What I struggled with:
• The complexity and number of the characters to begin with, but it was necessary to provide the basis for the intensity of the story to follow
• Travis’s lack of patience
Although this is the first book in the series, it could be read as a stand alone.
(I received this book as an ARC from the author)
A story that is packed with suspense that includes a twist that I didn’t pick up on until it was upon me. ‘Intense’ was my first impression of this story and that intensity stayed with me right up until the final scene. Entwined in the suspense is a story of unrelenting passion.
"It’s time for you to stop running. I’m not the one you love."
Caitlyn thinks she has her world under control until a sudden ambush has her forced to deal with a sanctuary that feels anything but safe.
“From no warrants to three people asking to see you, something tells me you’re in big trouble, lady.”
Travis has the means, the ability and the drive to prove what he knows in his heart is true. He is desperate to have his wife back but that’s not going to be easy. They are part of society that has them working and dealing with issues that are bigger than the individual. It’s a world that had separated them with lifestyles that make building, let alone rekindling a relationship near impossible. Add to that Caitlyn’s amnesia and it was obvious to all except Travis that gaining her trust, let alone her love again was going to take time.
Travis and Caitlyn are easy characters to connect with but his lack of patience and determination makes for an interesting time ahead. He is not prepared to settle for anything less than having her in his arms again. Caitlyn is far from being on the same page, instead her focus is on trying to fathom out her situation. Instinct has her on alert. Surrounded by strangers, she has to decide whom and what to believe. She needs to remember. Others relying on her to regain her memory. And all are prepared to do what ever it takes to achieve this.
What I enjoyed:
• The suspense
• The detour home
• The entertaining ‘mix up’ with the bikers
• The final scene – the view was serene and picture perfect!
What I struggled with:
• The complexity and number of the characters to begin with, but it was necessary to provide the basis for the intensity of the story to follow
• Travis’s lack of patience
Although this is the first book in the series, it could be read as a stand alone.
(I received this book as an ARC from the author)
May 3, 2018
This has potential but got too convoluted. This was an exhausting read..
August 21, 2015
Another winner from Victoria Paige. I beta read this book and received an ARC for an honest review, but I also purchased the book, because it's just that good, and I want to support authors I love!
Amnesia, back-from-the-dead, hot sex, alpha male, kickass heroine, romance, military action...nothing but nothing is left out. I truly look forward to the next book in this series!
That is my original review from June 2014. In August 2015, I have read this book aloud to my husband, so now have more to say. This book is so much more than that one sentence above. This book is fast-paced, exciting, twisty and oh-so-sexy! I had read just one chapter each night, and a couple times, he begged for another chapter, but I made him wait. Some of those chapters end like cliffhangers to keep you reading, so this is true torture I pulled on my poor man. Mwahahahaha!
It's Always Been You is a terrific start to the Always series, and I look forward to diving in to Bee and Gabe's story next. I just read it a few months ago, so it's still fresh in my mind, and the re-read will again be aloud to my hubby. Jumping from the end of the Guardians straight into this book, I noticed something. This author's writing is more special with every single book she dreams up. Her talent is growing and I'm drooling for the release of the third book in this series. I've fallen in love with these characters harder than the Guardians (okay, maybe except Viktor). ;)
Don't ever stop writing, Victoria Paige! We want to read about your characters far into the future!
Amnesia, back-from-the-dead, hot sex, alpha male, kickass heroine, romance, military action...nothing but nothing is left out. I truly look forward to the next book in this series!
That is my original review from June 2014. In August 2015, I have read this book aloud to my husband, so now have more to say. This book is so much more than that one sentence above. This book is fast-paced, exciting, twisty and oh-so-sexy! I had read just one chapter each night, and a couple times, he begged for another chapter, but I made him wait. Some of those chapters end like cliffhangers to keep you reading, so this is true torture I pulled on my poor man. Mwahahahaha!
It's Always Been You is a terrific start to the Always series, and I look forward to diving in to Bee and Gabe's story next. I just read it a few months ago, so it's still fresh in my mind, and the re-read will again be aloud to my hubby. Jumping from the end of the Guardians straight into this book, I noticed something. This author's writing is more special with every single book she dreams up. Her talent is growing and I'm drooling for the release of the third book in this series. I've fallen in love with these characters harder than the Guardians (okay, maybe except Viktor). ;)
Don't ever stop writing, Victoria Paige! We want to read about your characters far into the future!
August 24, 2014
5 action-packed stars!!!
First, thank you Miss Paige for the advance copy.
Second, I cant believe how amaze-balls this book is!
Third, I still cant move on for all the action, faith, hope and love Ive just read. Again, amaze-balls!
"I'll walk away from everything this instant as long as I have you."
I know this author writes some of my favorite books but I didnt know she could top herself off with another wonderful read. This is going to be another book series that I'd be looking forward to read.
First, thank you Miss Paige for the advance copy.
Second, I cant believe how amaze-balls this book is!
Third, I still cant move on for all the action, faith, hope and love Ive just read. Again, amaze-balls!
"I'll walk away from everything this instant as long as I have you."
I know this author writes some of my favorite books but I didnt know she could top herself off with another wonderful read. This is going to be another book series that I'd be looking forward to read.
Read
March 27, 2015DNF at 10%
I give up. Ya know those suspenseful books that grab you from the start and never let you go...filled with action, mystery, intrigue...and a hot alpha thrown it? This book didn't give me any of that. It starts right from the get-go with a suspenseful action storyline but so much was happening, names and characters I didn't even know.....I'm lost and completely uninterested. It was like you were thrown into it to sink or swim...I sunk. Moving on.
As a side note...you may see this compared to KA....no way in hell. But that's a tough one to beat for any writer.
I give up. Ya know those suspenseful books that grab you from the start and never let you go...filled with action, mystery, intrigue...and a hot alpha thrown it? This book didn't give me any of that. It starts right from the get-go with a suspenseful action storyline but so much was happening, names and characters I didn't even know.....I'm lost and completely uninterested. It was like you were thrown into it to sink or swim...I sunk. Moving on.
As a side note...you may see this compared to KA....no way in hell. But that's a tough one to beat for any writer.
September 18, 2014
I don't know why but I think I'm the only one that does not like this author's books. My problem with this one was the h has amnesia and was missing for 3 yrs. Some guy took her for those 3yrs and made her think they were together so she was sleeping with him. When he dies she is devastated. Never-mind the fact that the h is married to the H for 2yrs before her disappearance. Then we find out that the h was lying about her identity as far back as when she met the H. So even the marriage was a sham. When she returns she is a super-powered soldier who fights like Jason Bourne. Yeah, not my kind of book.
January 2, 2015
I simply have so much in my heart right now. I can't put into words how beautiful this love story was. From mystery to betrayal and passion. It had every element of what I adore in a love story. Betrayal against this couple.. not between them as they would lay down their life for each other in a heartbeat. I am in awe. I have tears.. and goosebumps. Its that epic. Very ironic that one of the last books of 2014 is one of the best. Vee Paige has the magic.. I'm so glad to have experienced this. Can't wait to read Gabes book. This was sheer perfection really.
July 25, 2014
J&G: ✯✯✯1/2
“I’ll love her enough for both of us until she’ll learn to love me again.”
Jenny: This book was a hot pot of everything wasn’t it Gitte? Suspense, drama, espionage, mystery, intrigue, passion and some very, very hot scenes…..Kindle windscreen wipers required! I really enjoyed It’s Always Been You despite my misgivings over a few plot holes which did leave me shaking my head once or twice and other scenes that felt more like fillers than integral story lines, which stilted the flow of the story a little for me.. I think you know the ones I’m talking about Gitte?
“I’ve been in limbo, babe. You’ve brought the pulse back into my blood.”
The author did a good job though of bringing me back into the story as I HAD to see how it all played out! There were times I thought I guessed how it would unfold, sometimes I was right on the money and other times I was thrown a curveball but it always kept me entertained. There was a big I KNEW IT moment when I actually think I whooped loudly! I will be picking up more in this series because I’m very intrigued about a couple of characters ;)
Gitte: Yeah, this story had everything, literally. Whilst I really enjoyed it and kept reading out of intrigue I have to say that rather than cramming every possible scenario into one story I’d have loved more character development and background. We had two great characters and an interesting suspenseful mystery so it was a real shame the plot holes, the unnecessary fillers and lack of attention to character development in regards to the heroine let this story down.
‘She could never compare to who she was before. She stared at herself in the mirror. She was scarred in more ways than one.’ – Caitlin
It became too sensational without enough ‘meat’ and detail. I loved the premise and some of the twists but there was just too much going on. For a hot passionate read with a filthy talking possessive alpha male though it was spot on though. Right, Jenny?!
Jenny: Travis Blake. Well as far as big, bad arse, bossy, possessive, dirty talking alphas go, Ex SEAL Travis Blake is up there with the best of them. Admittedly sometimes his blustering, jealous behaviour could be a little over the top but I soon forgave him these indiscretions because wow! He was something else! A demon between the sheets with a mouth he frequently put to good uses….
‘But his sexy hip bone and that dusting of hair trailing from his navel down to his weapon of mass orgasm…’ – Caitlin
His commitment and love for Caitlin was without question. He wasn’t about to lose her again. Caitlin caused me confusion to say the least. I had to question her thought processes after she so easily accepted Travis and happily walked off into the sunset with him. Not once enquiring about her family, friends or anything else with her past life. Did you find all that a bit odd Gitte?
“We’ll find each other again. And, sunshine, you’re not building a wall between us because I’ll take it down with a sledgehammer.”
Gitte: Yeah I found it really odd that as integral as Caitlin’s amnesia was to this storyline her character wasn’t developed more and her past examined and elaborated upon. I just didn’t buy her behaviour, attitude and acceptance in this regard.
“It fucking broke me Cat. My life shattered that day. I don’t think I’ve pieced myself back together again. So don’t fucking tell me it didn’t happen to me, because I lived that nightmare.” – Travis
Her lack of questioning and wanting to find out what happened pre-amnesia baffled me. It led me to think perhaps this storyline suffered because of everything else going on? I don’t know really, but this was my biggest issue and why I didn’t enjoy this story more than I did. I will say though that I loved her kick arse character!
As for Travis, I think you said it all, Jenny. He was an extremely passionate domineering hard arse Ex-Seal who basically had no filter for his thoughts or behaviour. At least you know where you stand with this guy though! I found him incredibly yummy and though not a classic romantic per se; his actions and his feelings over the missing three years and what comes after, clearly showed a loving heart and a man desperate for the love and return of his wife.
“I’d walk through hell for you, as long as you’ll be waiting for me on the other side.” – Travis
Overall, I did enjoy this book and I will definitely pick up more in this series. But sometimes less really is more!
**Reviewed on ARC copy provided by author**
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July 26, 2014
It only makes sense. After a run of really good books, I’m going to hit a dud. Such is the case with this one. After a while I didn’t like it – didn’t like it at all. Travis Blake is a former Navy SEAL who has opened his own successful PI business. While his professional life is looking good, the same can’t be said for his personal life. His wife Sarah had died three years previously while he was deployed and out of the country. He loved her desperately and couldn’t seem move on without her. Then he finds out that she didn’t die after all but instead was stolen from him. The problem when he gets her back though, she has no memory from before she disappeared and doesn’t know him. On top of that, it seems there is a real mystery surrounding who she is and who she was. She’s a deep, deep agent with the CIA and it turns out that some really bad people are after her, Russian drug lords, looking for money she stole in her previous life. Caitlynn Kincaid, the name she goes by now, has no idea where it is and she and Travis are being hunted.
So. All of this sounds very appealing doesn’t it? It sure did to me. But I had MAJOR issues with Travis. He was so over the top alpha; I found he bordered on abusive. He was naturally protective of Cailyn, he’d lost her once and it almost destroyed him and as a result he is the most smothering hero (?) I’ve ever read. He’s demanding, impatient, a bully and to me the antithesis of a hero. Caitlyn has no memory of her life with him before, but he doesn’t seem to get that an almost punishes her for things that happened while she was gone. You see, she either left or was stolen by another guy, a childhood friend. She and her friend Jace, had spent the three years on the run and since she didn’t know there was a Travis in her past, I thought it vastly wrong of him to hold it against her. He had moments of understanding her situation, but they were far too few and far between. While Caitlyn seemed to handle his overbearing attitude not to badly, all I could think was it must be exhausting. I didn’t like him at all! And the way he talked to her – major yuck for me. It was pretty darn crude and NOT in a romantic way. A little bit of that talk can be sexy – a never ending stream of it is pitiful.
Still I kept reading even though I’d about had it with Travis, but then it started getting silly. Our fearless pair had no sooner got things straightened out with one Russian mob, then another couple popped up. Add into the mix when a motorcycle gang entered the picture when our two tried to get away and it became whack-a-villain, a variation on the carnival whack-a-mole game. I didn’t bother reading anymore, instead skipped ahead a few chapters and silly had gone downhill even further. Caitlyn and some women she had met through Travis. They were having a girl’s night out – at a BDSM-lite club. Yeah, that’s were me and my girls go too *eye roll*. Of course it’s unacceptable to Cave Man Travis who hauls her away; they watch an “act” together and then find a closet. Nothing screams romance more than being nailed after watching other people get off. And he’s still talking crude, and angry, and, well, abusive. At this point I’d pretty much had enough and moved on to another book. I would have marked this lower – but in theory the storyline was good and I enjoyed it enough the first few chapters before it tanked to *sigh* purchase another book by this author. Now after getting further along in this one, whether I read another one is up for debate. But at least I didn’t waste a lot of money
So. All of this sounds very appealing doesn’t it? It sure did to me. But I had MAJOR issues with Travis. He was so over the top alpha; I found he bordered on abusive. He was naturally protective of Cailyn, he’d lost her once and it almost destroyed him and as a result he is the most smothering hero (?) I’ve ever read. He’s demanding, impatient, a bully and to me the antithesis of a hero. Caitlyn has no memory of her life with him before, but he doesn’t seem to get that an almost punishes her for things that happened while she was gone. You see, she either left or was stolen by another guy, a childhood friend. She and her friend Jace, had spent the three years on the run and since she didn’t know there was a Travis in her past, I thought it vastly wrong of him to hold it against her. He had moments of understanding her situation, but they were far too few and far between. While Caitlyn seemed to handle his overbearing attitude not to badly, all I could think was it must be exhausting. I didn’t like him at all! And the way he talked to her – major yuck for me. It was pretty darn crude and NOT in a romantic way. A little bit of that talk can be sexy – a never ending stream of it is pitiful.
Still I kept reading even though I’d about had it with Travis, but then it started getting silly. Our fearless pair had no sooner got things straightened out with one Russian mob, then another couple popped up. Add into the mix when a motorcycle gang entered the picture when our two tried to get away and it became whack-a-villain, a variation on the carnival whack-a-mole game. I didn’t bother reading anymore, instead skipped ahead a few chapters and silly had gone downhill even further. Caitlyn and some women she had met through Travis. They were having a girl’s night out – at a BDSM-lite club. Yeah, that’s were me and my girls go too *eye roll*. Of course it’s unacceptable to Cave Man Travis who hauls her away; they watch an “act” together and then find a closet. Nothing screams romance more than being nailed after watching other people get off. And he’s still talking crude, and angry, and, well, abusive. At this point I’d pretty much had enough and moved on to another book. I would have marked this lower – but in theory the storyline was good and I enjoyed it enough the first few chapters before it tanked to *sigh* purchase another book by this author. Now after getting further along in this one, whether I read another one is up for debate. But at least I didn’t waste a lot of money
July 20, 2014
4 stars. This was a good, enjoyable read for the most part. The storyline was different from all the other books Navy/soldier themed books that ive read. This one was packed full of espionage, romance, twists and turns throughout and one possessive-alpha hero let me tell you!
I really wasn’t expecting the heroine – Sarah or Caitlin to be some sort of female version of Jason Bourne though. It turns out that she was some kinda special ‘specter’ agent for an unknown section of the CIA, that even her husband – Travis – didn’t know about. After one of her operations when haywire, she suffered a bad car accident and amnesia. She ends up in Europe with her work-partner and long term friend Jase. Only Jase tells a few fibs when she comes around – that they are romantically attached and not a word about her actual husband Travis. They spend the next few years running from ‘unknown’ enemies.
After suffering the loss of his wife and not quite believing she’s dead, Travis (who has set up hi multi-million dollar security firm in the last few years) gets a call that his wife may have turned up at a US embassy in Berlin. Of course he is there like a shot but is devastated that she doesn’t remember him at all and what’s more, she’s doesn’t trust him having been on the run for so long.
However, after saving her from these unknown threats, Sarah, or Caitlin as she likes to be called now, ends up back ‘home’ in the USA with him. The plot begins to unfold as they both come to understand that not only does she have some weird ability to go berserk when she’s put in danger (as a result of some high-adrenaline-inducing-serum) but she is a computer whiz and holds the key to unlocking encrypted files that the CIA AND the Russian mafia want.
Things get convoluted regarding this part of the storyline, so much so that I cant explain (although it makes sense when you are reading it) and I wont because it will spoil the story. All this occurs alongside the two MCs getting to know each other again, with Travis’s impatience to wait to ‘claim’ his wife again and Caitlin dealing with information overload. Needless to say, Travis is the perfect man….yes he sulks when he has to wait too long for what he wants, but he is super alpha and possessive. I like!
The ending was fast paced and although I wasn’t overly bothered about the other characters getting their books, the last few chapters with Gabe and Bee……definitely wana read that!
4 stars because it was great in many ways, but didn’t quite blow me away.
I really wasn’t expecting the heroine – Sarah or Caitlin to be some sort of female version of Jason Bourne though. It turns out that she was some kinda special ‘specter’ agent for an unknown section of the CIA, that even her husband – Travis – didn’t know about. After one of her operations when haywire, she suffered a bad car accident and amnesia. She ends up in Europe with her work-partner and long term friend Jase. Only Jase tells a few fibs when she comes around – that they are romantically attached and not a word about her actual husband Travis. They spend the next few years running from ‘unknown’ enemies.
After suffering the loss of his wife and not quite believing she’s dead, Travis (who has set up hi multi-million dollar security firm in the last few years) gets a call that his wife may have turned up at a US embassy in Berlin. Of course he is there like a shot but is devastated that she doesn’t remember him at all and what’s more, she’s doesn’t trust him having been on the run for so long.
However, after saving her from these unknown threats, Sarah, or Caitlin as she likes to be called now, ends up back ‘home’ in the USA with him. The plot begins to unfold as they both come to understand that not only does she have some weird ability to go berserk when she’s put in danger (as a result of some high-adrenaline-inducing-serum) but she is a computer whiz and holds the key to unlocking encrypted files that the CIA AND the Russian mafia want.
Things get convoluted regarding this part of the storyline, so much so that I cant explain (although it makes sense when you are reading it) and I wont because it will spoil the story. All this occurs alongside the two MCs getting to know each other again, with Travis’s impatience to wait to ‘claim’ his wife again and Caitlin dealing with information overload. Needless to say, Travis is the perfect man….yes he sulks when he has to wait too long for what he wants, but he is super alpha and possessive. I like!
The ending was fast paced and although I wasn’t overly bothered about the other characters getting their books, the last few chapters with Gabe and Bee……definitely wana read that!
4 stars because it was great in many ways, but didn’t quite blow me away.
September 15, 2014
4½ Stars
This book had it all for me. Mystery, Suspense, it was action packed and hot.
Travis Blake, an Ex Navy Seal lost his wife Sarah three years previously, but something in the back of his mind told him that she was very much still alive. His friends and family urged him to move on, but he couldn't.
Caitlin Kincaid, has been on the run from a secret organisation with her ex lover Jase for 3 years and she has no recollection of her time before this. One fateful day, Jase urges her to continue on her own as it is him that is being hunted and that he isn't actually the one she loves. Caitlin is confused by this statement and parts ways with Jase to seek refuge within the American Embassy.
Quickly it is established that Caitlin is Sarah and this is no secret. Even the synopsis mentions the fact.
What I did quickly find out was that Travis, who now owns and runs a security company, and Caitlin couldn't trust anyone. It is clear that Caitlin was still not safe after her separation from Jase and as a reader, I think I suspected just about everyone being an antagonist and I loved the suspense of that.
In between trying to keep Caitlin safe and to find out exactly who wants her dead, we are also shown the difficulties Travis and Caitlin face in their relationship. Caitlin has no recollection of Travis and despite his continued love for her, she must learn to love him all over again.
There were some great action scenes in this book, although on occasion some were a little hard to follow, especially when there was a large number of people involved. I kind of had a vision of a cartoon fight, where everyone is surrounded by a huge cloud of dust and all you can see are their arms and legs. But make no mistake, that was just my own interpretation of those scenes and there is certainly nothing cartoon-ish about this book.
I cannot do this review without mentioning Travis Blake. He was hot, seriously Alpha and at times this drove Caitlin insane, but despite her reluctance to commit emotionally to him, the sexual chemistry between the couple was through the roof.
There were a couple of things I would have loved to see happen, but the ending was perfect and I really do look forward to book 2.
This book had it all for me. Mystery, Suspense, it was action packed and hot.
Travis Blake, an Ex Navy Seal lost his wife Sarah three years previously, but something in the back of his mind told him that she was very much still alive. His friends and family urged him to move on, but he couldn't.
Caitlin Kincaid, has been on the run from a secret organisation with her ex lover Jase for 3 years and she has no recollection of her time before this. One fateful day, Jase urges her to continue on her own as it is him that is being hunted and that he isn't actually the one she loves. Caitlin is confused by this statement and parts ways with Jase to seek refuge within the American Embassy.
Quickly it is established that Caitlin is Sarah and this is no secret. Even the synopsis mentions the fact.
What I did quickly find out was that Travis, who now owns and runs a security company, and Caitlin couldn't trust anyone. It is clear that Caitlin was still not safe after her separation from Jase and as a reader, I think I suspected just about everyone being an antagonist and I loved the suspense of that.
In between trying to keep Caitlin safe and to find out exactly who wants her dead, we are also shown the difficulties Travis and Caitlin face in their relationship. Caitlin has no recollection of Travis and despite his continued love for her, she must learn to love him all over again.
There were some great action scenes in this book, although on occasion some were a little hard to follow, especially when there was a large number of people involved. I kind of had a vision of a cartoon fight, where everyone is surrounded by a huge cloud of dust and all you can see are their arms and legs. But make no mistake, that was just my own interpretation of those scenes and there is certainly nothing cartoon-ish about this book.
I cannot do this review without mentioning Travis Blake. He was hot, seriously Alpha and at times this drove Caitlin insane, but despite her reluctance to commit emotionally to him, the sexual chemistry between the couple was through the roof.
There were a couple of things I would have loved to see happen, but the ending was perfect and I really do look forward to book 2.
July 20, 2014
I loved this author's Guardian Series. This was slightly different. Still plenty of intrigue. There was move about the H & h's love affair-which really "interfered" with the suspense aspect of the story. Travis is so devoted to Caitlin/Sarah, that it gets them it to a whole bunch of trouble with the "bad guys" ('who are those guys?....') The story seemed to ramp up at around 60%, which is nice, since some books seem to have a lull in the middle. I did have to focus on the major & minor characters'-who they are aligned with ? & are they who they say they are? Travis, the H, is OTT possessive, this seemed exaggerated, in my opinion. Caitlin/Sarah seemed to handle (him) pretty well when he got like that- which was quite often. The FREQUENT use of the F word was distracting to me & made Travis seem too immature for what he does and he owns his own security company... The FREQUENT cussing reminds me of a 14 year old boy.
No cliffhanger. I will probably read the next book, about two supporting characters from this book.
If there is a book 3- I hope that it will be about Nate- I liked his character in this book (reminds me of the H from book 1 in the Guardians- Fire & Ice).
Thank you Ms Delilah for the rec :)
No cliffhanger. I will probably read the next book, about two supporting characters from this book.
If there is a book 3- I hope that it will be about Nate- I liked his character in this book (reminds me of the H from book 1 in the Guardians- Fire & Ice).
Thank you Ms Delilah for the rec :)
September 22, 2014
He broke the kiss and held her eyes. “That right there tells me otherwise. We’ll find each other again. And, sunshine, you’re not building a wall between us because I’ll take it down with a sledgehammer. Fucking amnesia has nothing on us, Caitlin. What we had before was once in a lifetime. You think having it, losing it, and getting it back, I’m going to let it slip through my fingers again? You married a SEAL. We’re tenacious, persistent, and we don’t know how to fail. You think with the greatest battle in my life, and that’s winning you back—I’m going to fuck up now? Not happening. You were mine. You will be mine again."
That about sums up Travis. There's nothing more alpha than a Navy SEAL who is fighting to win back the woman he loves. :)
Available:
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Also on iBooks
July 11, 2014
As I said before, I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review, and here it is..
5 Marvelous stars!!
WOW!!
Just wow!!!
This is not the first, and hopefully, not the work for me to read by this author. This one had all the right amount of action, love, possessiveness, jealously and romance this kind of genre needs!
It was brilliantly done. The pace of how their story continued was perfection.
And the steamy scenes...
All in all, an awesome read and a great start for a series ;) *hint hint*
So, thanks again for the author for allowing me this opportunity to read such a great one!
Cheers!
5 Marvelous stars!!
WOW!!
Just wow!!!
This is not the first, and hopefully, not the work for me to read by this author. This one had all the right amount of action, love, possessiveness, jealously and romance this kind of genre needs!
It was brilliantly done. The pace of how their story continued was perfection.
And the steamy scenes...
All in all, an awesome read and a great start for a series ;) *hint hint*
So, thanks again for the author for allowing me this opportunity to read such a great one!
Cheers!
July 19, 2014
Lindoooo!!! Meu primeiro livro dessa autora e já posso dizer que adorei. Nesse livro, vemos um amor tão incondicional, o mocinho luta tão ferozmente pelo amor da vida dele, não tem aquelas "frescuras" de negação, pra ele é tudo muito simples, ele está apaixonado e não abre mão disso por nada. E a mocinha... Ohhhhh ela passa por tantas coisas, sua vida dá tantas voltas... Wowww....
Mas gostei muito da forma como a autora "fechou" todos os pontos do roteiro, tudo muito bem amarradinho deixando com vontade de quero mais. E eu quero mais, quero o próximo, tipo... Já!!!
Mas gostei muito da forma como a autora "fechou" todos os pontos do roteiro, tudo muito bem amarradinho deixando com vontade de quero mais. E eu quero mais, quero o próximo, tipo... Já!!!
July 19, 2014
How have I missed this new author? This was a great fast read. And sweet! Travis was almost 'too' sweet lol. But I still loved it! Who wouldn't love a hot ex special ops guy who makes his girl his world ;)) Cat held her own and I loved that too.
Excited to see this looks like the first book in a series. Plenty of characters that I would love to know more about. Nate? Gabe? Bee? Ahhhhh great job!! Fun read! And can't wait for more!
Excited to see this looks like the first book in a series. Plenty of characters that I would love to know more about. Nate? Gabe? Bee? Ahhhhh great job!! Fun read! And can't wait for more!
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