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Love Always #2
More Than Always
Brian Jace only had one purpose when he left Phoenix for Miami—to convince Destiny Michaels that there was more than just a lifetime of friendship between them.
His calm and steady approach worked—Brian finally got his girl, and he’s never been happier. But just when Brian and Destiny think they’re finally free to enjoy each other on a new level, a fresh set of challenges that Brian wasn’t prepared for arise, and their love is once again, put to the test.
Is love always enough? Will Brian be able to hold on to Destiny, when he’s still fighting his own demons?
Or this time, will he be the one to walk away?
His calm and steady approach worked—Brian finally got his girl, and he’s never been happier. But just when Brian and Destiny think they’re finally free to enjoy each other on a new level, a fresh set of challenges that Brian wasn’t prepared for arise, and their love is once again, put to the test.
Is love always enough? Will Brian be able to hold on to Destiny, when he’s still fighting his own demons?
Or this time, will he be the one to walk away?
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
About the author
Jacinta Howard
21 books570 followersJacinta Howard is an Atlanta-based culture journalist, editor and author with more than a decade of experience across genres of media. Her bylined articles have appeared at Eater, Atlanta magazine, Shondaland, Denver Westword, BET, and Rock The Bells, LL Cool J’s media company, where she served as managing editor. Jacinta’s 2022 article about the chicken wings served at Magic City, Atlanta’s world-famous strip club, was nominated for an American Society of Magazine Editors Award, and her novels have been featured in USA Today, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Book Riot and OkayAfrica. She digs summertime, flip flops, old fashioneds, deep bass lines, good lyrics, goofy jokes, and kind people. She also believes there’s an Andre 3000 lyric to fit any situation. Her happy place is hanging on the beach somewhere with her family, preferably with a good book and a dope playlist.
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February 14, 2015
More Than Always is book two in the Love Always series by Jacinta Howard.
Brian and Destiny are a couple. They went through so much in book one but they are stronger for it, their love for each other strong. Brian feels like maybe they still aren’t in the exact same place though. He knows that Destiny is it for him. He doesn’t want to ask her to move in with him. He wants to marry her. He knows that she is all he wants, but is Destiny ready to be his wife?
“She was his personification of love, pure and simple.”
As is so often the case, life has a tendency to get in the way. Brian’s mother has been a drug addict since he was about ten years old. He and his little sister Alexis were mostly raised by their aunt and uncle. But Lexi is fifteen now and is acting out, his aunt and uncle getting older and not able to handle her. At the same time, their mom re-enters the picture, claiming she is clean now and wanting to re-establish a relationship with them, wanting forgiveness. Brian is no where near at a place where he can forgive her. He assumes guardianship of his sister and takes her back to Miami.
Through years of practice, Brian keeps everything inside. He doesn’t want to burden Destiny with the added responsibility of taking care of a teenager. And he keeps all his anger and emotions regarding his mom inside, not wanting to involve Destiny in his messed up past. But keeping all this to himself puts strain on their relationship.
Then, when you add in hectic, stressful work schedules, third parties on both sides that might have romantic notions, jealousies and all the other stresses and strains of everyday life, their relationship begins to falter.
“I love you more than any argument. I love you more than any bad day, or week, or month. I love you, Destiny. Even when things are off between us, and it seems like we’re not on the same page…my love for you trumps all of that. It always will.”
This is a beautiful and very realistic story of trying to navigate real life’s challenges. Both Destiny and Brian are good people, trying to live life the best they can. They are most definitely stronger together and love each other deeply but is it enough? I have very much enjoyed reading about this couple as they try to find their way. I look forward to the final book, Less Than Forever to see how their story ends.
“I’ve loved you forever. I know I want you forever. I’ll choose you, every day, forever.”
April 11, 2015
I discovered Jacinta Howard's work late last year when she was recommended to me by a reader. I started with 'Better Than Okay' and early on in that book was lulled into a false sense of security that it would be lighthearted new adult romance, sprinkled with the occasional moment of angst, but ending with a contented sigh and an HEA.
Well, it wasn't that.
That story—the start of Brian and Destiny’s story—made it clear that this author likes to make it tough on herself, in the best possible way. The conflicts were real-life conflicts that most couples would not survive. But I won’t say any more about that book. You can read the review here.
In 'More Than Always' Brian and Destiny, are happily coupled-up. Their love for each other is clear and unquestionable. Destiny has rebounded somewhat from the trauma she experienced, and is in a new job, working in the industry she loves, as a music journalist. And Brian is settling into Miami. Having moved there to be with Destiny, he has definitely 'gotten his girl'. But it turns out, Brian's move wasn't precipitated only by his feelings for Destiny. In fact, his mother's struggle with addiction caused him to do something that was otherwise out of character, and it was that incident that made the move to Miami much more timely.
Still, across the country turns out to be not far enough because Brian hasn't out-run his demons. Not completely.
While ‘Better Than Okay’ was Destiny’s story, ‘More Than Always’ is Brian’s. He is the typical child of an addict, prematurely forced into adulthood by a parent who is not equipped to be one, always holding up the sky, being the solid one, the responsible one, the one who must compensate for what his parent lacks. In this case, Brian is forced to step into the role of surrogate parent to his fifteen-year old sister who has just begun to do the things that fifteen-year olds do—experiment with their sexuality, with drinking, with partying. The weight of this new responsibility is only increased by his mother’s reappearance—now clean and sober, she is looking for the redemption that Brian is reluctant to grant her. It is against this backdrop that Brian and Destiny must figure out their new life together, and as expected, it isn’t an easy road.
Complicated by the appearance of a young woman named Egypt (whose ditsy, easygoing nature stands in sharp contrast to Destiny’s intensity and occasional insecurity) and a co-worker named Jason (who is clearly moving in on Brian’s woman though she seems clueless of that fact), the couple’s blissful new relationship takes a serious downturn.
I liked the push and pull between Brian and Destiny, even as I found her insecurity sometimes exhausting. But then, at precisely the right time, the author reminded me of her characters’ age, or of the difficult period they had been through, skillfully explaining away things that might have grated on me otherwise. And what’s more, she did that through the ‘voices of reason’ in her secondary characters, Dorian and Raven, who moved the plot along and asked questions that the reader might be asking at that particular moment. Dorian and Raven, who I believe we will hear from in Jacinta Howard’s next book, were portrayed exactly as secondary characters should be—giving enough detail to make us curious about them, and acting as true supporting characters without overshadowing the main ones.
The romances that work best for me are the ones where the main characters have lots of ‘stuff’ and their relationship becomes the conduit for them to work through that ‘stuff’. At the end of the day, they are more whole people, whether together or apart, but you want them together. And in ‘More Than Always’, I definitely wanted Brian and Destiny together, though I had moments—much like Destiny did herself—when I wondered whether they might not be better off apart.
To that end, Jacinta Howard weaved in details of Brian’s reaction to his mother’s new sobriety that struck me as incredibly astute. Rather than embrace it, Brian’s anger and disappointment, which had for years taken the backseat to his fear for his mother’s life and safety, suddenly surface. Now, knowing that she was safe he has room for anger. But, being the ‘solid guy’ that he is, there is no outlet for that anger, no way for him to express his disappointment, particularly now that she is actually doing the right thing. And Destiny sensing this, waits for him to tell her, but he does not. The portrayal of that relationship, between Brian and his mother, was one of the best parts of this book for me, and jumped off the pages even though there were relatively little direct interaction between the two.
The love story between Brian and Destiny was also refreshing in that it definitely showed how love can be messy, and how falling in love and staying in love can be challenging when real life intervenes. If I had to sum up Jacinta’s Howard’s work in a nutshell, that would be it.
Though she has just three published novels under her belt, I think I can see a niche emerging: Brian and Destiny and their close-knit circle of friends are young, upwardly-mobile, hip and living in pretty cool cities. But they’re also just trying to figure it all out. I liked that there was nothing contrived or self-conscious about their lives, and that the author didn’t resort to wealth and labels (devices I use myself, and which, let’s face it, are fun to read about) to stoke the readers’ interest. Apart from their good-looks, there is quite frankly nothing about Brian and Destiny’s backgrounds that would make reading their story some kind of wish-fulfillment exercise. But even without that, the author makes you want to go along for the ride anyway.
Finally, a word about the writing. The best way to put it is this: Jacinta Howard does not let her writing get in the way of her story. Even more so than her earlier work, there is clear, refreshing simplicity and restraint in the way she writes, which I think shows confidence not only in her story but in her skill at conveying all that needs to be conveyed without unnecessary flourishes. I felt the heat of Miami and Phoenix, and heard the music in the clubs, because the descriptiveness was just enough to accomplish the task and no more.
I think I said it in my last review, but I’ll say it again: Jacinta Howard is definitely a writer to watch.
Well, it wasn't that.
That story—the start of Brian and Destiny’s story—made it clear that this author likes to make it tough on herself, in the best possible way. The conflicts were real-life conflicts that most couples would not survive. But I won’t say any more about that book. You can read the review here.
In 'More Than Always' Brian and Destiny, are happily coupled-up. Their love for each other is clear and unquestionable. Destiny has rebounded somewhat from the trauma she experienced, and is in a new job, working in the industry she loves, as a music journalist. And Brian is settling into Miami. Having moved there to be with Destiny, he has definitely 'gotten his girl'. But it turns out, Brian's move wasn't precipitated only by his feelings for Destiny. In fact, his mother's struggle with addiction caused him to do something that was otherwise out of character, and it was that incident that made the move to Miami much more timely.
Still, across the country turns out to be not far enough because Brian hasn't out-run his demons. Not completely.
While ‘Better Than Okay’ was Destiny’s story, ‘More Than Always’ is Brian’s. He is the typical child of an addict, prematurely forced into adulthood by a parent who is not equipped to be one, always holding up the sky, being the solid one, the responsible one, the one who must compensate for what his parent lacks. In this case, Brian is forced to step into the role of surrogate parent to his fifteen-year old sister who has just begun to do the things that fifteen-year olds do—experiment with their sexuality, with drinking, with partying. The weight of this new responsibility is only increased by his mother’s reappearance—now clean and sober, she is looking for the redemption that Brian is reluctant to grant her. It is against this backdrop that Brian and Destiny must figure out their new life together, and as expected, it isn’t an easy road.
Complicated by the appearance of a young woman named Egypt (whose ditsy, easygoing nature stands in sharp contrast to Destiny’s intensity and occasional insecurity) and a co-worker named Jason (who is clearly moving in on Brian’s woman though she seems clueless of that fact), the couple’s blissful new relationship takes a serious downturn.
I liked the push and pull between Brian and Destiny, even as I found her insecurity sometimes exhausting. But then, at precisely the right time, the author reminded me of her characters’ age, or of the difficult period they had been through, skillfully explaining away things that might have grated on me otherwise. And what’s more, she did that through the ‘voices of reason’ in her secondary characters, Dorian and Raven, who moved the plot along and asked questions that the reader might be asking at that particular moment. Dorian and Raven, who I believe we will hear from in Jacinta Howard’s next book, were portrayed exactly as secondary characters should be—giving enough detail to make us curious about them, and acting as true supporting characters without overshadowing the main ones.
The romances that work best for me are the ones where the main characters have lots of ‘stuff’ and their relationship becomes the conduit for them to work through that ‘stuff’. At the end of the day, they are more whole people, whether together or apart, but you want them together. And in ‘More Than Always’, I definitely wanted Brian and Destiny together, though I had moments—much like Destiny did herself—when I wondered whether they might not be better off apart.
To that end, Jacinta Howard weaved in details of Brian’s reaction to his mother’s new sobriety that struck me as incredibly astute. Rather than embrace it, Brian’s anger and disappointment, which had for years taken the backseat to his fear for his mother’s life and safety, suddenly surface. Now, knowing that she was safe he has room for anger. But, being the ‘solid guy’ that he is, there is no outlet for that anger, no way for him to express his disappointment, particularly now that she is actually doing the right thing. And Destiny sensing this, waits for him to tell her, but he does not. The portrayal of that relationship, between Brian and his mother, was one of the best parts of this book for me, and jumped off the pages even though there were relatively little direct interaction between the two.
The love story between Brian and Destiny was also refreshing in that it definitely showed how love can be messy, and how falling in love and staying in love can be challenging when real life intervenes. If I had to sum up Jacinta’s Howard’s work in a nutshell, that would be it.
Though she has just three published novels under her belt, I think I can see a niche emerging: Brian and Destiny and their close-knit circle of friends are young, upwardly-mobile, hip and living in pretty cool cities. But they’re also just trying to figure it all out. I liked that there was nothing contrived or self-conscious about their lives, and that the author didn’t resort to wealth and labels (devices I use myself, and which, let’s face it, are fun to read about) to stoke the readers’ interest. Apart from their good-looks, there is quite frankly nothing about Brian and Destiny’s backgrounds that would make reading their story some kind of wish-fulfillment exercise. But even without that, the author makes you want to go along for the ride anyway.
Finally, a word about the writing. The best way to put it is this: Jacinta Howard does not let her writing get in the way of her story. Even more so than her earlier work, there is clear, refreshing simplicity and restraint in the way she writes, which I think shows confidence not only in her story but in her skill at conveying all that needs to be conveyed without unnecessary flourishes. I felt the heat of Miami and Phoenix, and heard the music in the clubs, because the descriptiveness was just enough to accomplish the task and no more.
I think I said it in my last review, but I’ll say it again: Jacinta Howard is definitely a writer to watch.
Read
February 18, 2015APB Perspective Review:
What can I say , Jacinita has done it again! This is another five star read , the words and emotions in this books flows just as well as the music spoken of in the within its pages. Brian and Destiny are two characters that I keep close to my heart , I was happy read the what happens next in their lives . Brian loves Destiny in a way that all women dream about , he's soulful, and not afraid to show her how much he loves her even if it seems wrong to Destiny . He will figure out what she needs and do his best to give it to her . There was a part in the book where Brian list his constants , things that just are like the rain is wet constant, one and one makes two constant, Brian loves Destiny constant. in the morning , one of his was his constants was loving Destiny , when I read those words , they the author explained his love for Destiny I fell more in love with this man. A good romance novel will either make you love , root for , and be with the male protagonist,I say the author has done that with Brian. I also was so proud of Destiny her gentle strength , was good to see, she overcame the problems and heartaches from the first book'Better than Okay" I liked her growth , I loved the fact that they still sent the song Lyrics to each other I played a few songs while because of the lyrics they sent to one another. I enjoyed this book and I can't wait to see what this author writes next she has become one of my favorites .
What can I say , Jacinita has done it again! This is another five star read , the words and emotions in this books flows just as well as the music spoken of in the within its pages. Brian and Destiny are two characters that I keep close to my heart , I was happy read the what happens next in their lives . Brian loves Destiny in a way that all women dream about , he's soulful, and not afraid to show her how much he loves her even if it seems wrong to Destiny . He will figure out what she needs and do his best to give it to her . There was a part in the book where Brian list his constants , things that just are like the rain is wet constant, one and one makes two constant, Brian loves Destiny constant. in the morning , one of his was his constants was loving Destiny , when I read those words , they the author explained his love for Destiny I fell more in love with this man. A good romance novel will either make you love , root for , and be with the male protagonist,I say the author has done that with Brian. I also was so proud of Destiny her gentle strength , was good to see, she overcame the problems and heartaches from the first book'Better than Okay" I liked her growth , I loved the fact that they still sent the song Lyrics to each other I played a few songs while because of the lyrics they sent to one another. I enjoyed this book and I can't wait to see what this author writes next she has become one of my favorites .
January 7, 2015
There's a certain calm that comes with knowing you've done the right thing. The thing that you needed to do, regardless of popular opinion or belief. The thing that you know deep down is the only thing that will set your soul right.
When a book ends and the couple is gets their hea but you know there is more... more to the story... more to come...those missing links. This is the not so pretty tie up of Better Than Okay (Must be read first). More Than Always is Brian and Destiny struggle to keep their HEA. I saw both sides. I hurt for both sides. I wanted both to see the road ahead- TOGETHER!
Destiny is my choice, she's a choice that I made long before I met you, and a choice I'll keep making after you
I love Jacinta's writing and her mind for giving me such real characters to fall for. I can't wait for the next in the series....New couples to focus on- YAY!!!
Stay tuned for my full review with L Literature!!
When a book ends and the couple is gets their hea but you know there is more... more to the story... more to come...those missing links. This is the not so pretty tie up of Better Than Okay (Must be read first). More Than Always is Brian and Destiny struggle to keep their HEA. I saw both sides. I hurt for both sides. I wanted both to see the road ahead- TOGETHER!
Destiny is my choice, she's a choice that I made long before I met you, and a choice I'll keep making after you
I love Jacinta's writing and her mind for giving me such real characters to fall for. I can't wait for the next in the series....New couples to focus on- YAY!!!
Stay tuned for my full review with L Literature!!
February 17, 2015
A sweeter and deeper love
I enjoyed reading the deep emotion that you so eloquently described between Brian and Destiny. No matter what they faced, their love unwavered and truly conquered all. The realism of life's circumstances was on point as was the way the characters handled them. Now I did get annoyed somewhat with the both of them, but I understand why the author played it the way she did. Feel good read. Recommended.
I enjoyed reading the deep emotion that you so eloquently described between Brian and Destiny. No matter what they faced, their love unwavered and truly conquered all. The realism of life's circumstances was on point as was the way the characters handled them. Now I did get annoyed somewhat with the both of them, but I understand why the author played it the way she did. Feel good read. Recommended.
April 22, 2015
Good read.
May 27, 2015
Megan's Review
I will jump on a Jacinta book quicker than I will jump out of my clothes! I love her writing. Her books are exactly what I like to read about. The emotion and happiness I get during the read, I also end up wanting more.
It had been a while since I read the first in this series so I did have to go back and read the synopsis again and my review, plus all my highlights. It wasn't a hardship :)
With that said, this review may be spoilerish if you haven't read Better Than Okay.
When we left Brian and Destiny you were content with how they were together- finally, but knowing there were some loose ends this book ties all that up. Brian and Destiny are absolutely adorable together. But now they are faced with personal commitments that put some major strain on their relationship.
Brian has a lot on his shoulders. When he went for Destiny...his destiny... he finally did something for him. Staying in Phoenix wasn't for him but being back there, the weight is on his shoulders- again. The family line is thick and dangerous and he wants it stopped. For him, for his future, for his sister.
"Do you wish you would've stayed in Phoenix?"
"Where do you live?"
"Here,"
"There's your answer. I was suffocating in Phoneix, honestly. I wanted to do something different. I needed to feel something different. I think you were the something."
Oh my poor Destiny and Brian happy bubble!! Man, I want to go back to where it was all happy and cute!! LOL...I won't say I love how this story went down because it caused me some heartache, along with Brian and Destiny. I could see both sides, Brian wanted Destiny to stay clean and Destiny wanted to be Brian's rock. Although, they weren't exactly ready to say I do just yet, as so discussed Destiny wants the definition. For better or worse. I felt how upset she was every time Brian brushed her off, thinking he was doing it for her own good wasn't the case.
"It almost feels like I can't do anything right as far as she's concerned. Like you try to shut me out completely, but then you turn around and say things about how we n'eed to get on the same page.' But you dont' even want me on the freaking page with you. Let alone in the book or the chapter."
They had a lot of overcome, a lot of obstacles, a lot of realness. How they dealt with it wasn't the best but the feelings were always there.
"You feel this? He place his hand over hers, then moved it to his heart. "This is yours. It belongs to you. There is no losing me, Destiny. Everything that I am? You own."
Even though the road traveled was very bumpy, with a big ole pot whole I am so happy to have read this book. I am also even happier with the small tid bit about the next book in the series!!!
April 11, 2015
I read "Better Than Okay" back in November and had Bernard waiting for the sequel to Brian and Destiny's journey. I can't believe that "More Than Always" has been out since February 12th and I had no idea. Thank God that Tia Kelly and Nia Forrester decided to showcase the amazing writing talents of Jacinta Howard allowing me to get my follow-up fix on Brian and Destiny. As in "Better Than Okay", character chemistry is on point in "More Than Always" because you have basically the same characters with a few new additions sprinkled in here and there. I don't do Spoilers, but I can't help but mention that I love what you have done and are doing to Teresa's character Jacinta. If you haven't had a chance to engage in the Beautiful and Intriguing "Love Always" series, do not sleep on it! I guarantee you that you will not regret One Clicking both stories. Ummmm, yeah, I can't finish up this review without mentioning how ready I am to finally read Dorian and Raven's story, "Less Than Forever"... I am signing up for your newsletter ASAP Jacinta, so that I will remain in the loop, lol!!!
T
T
January 16, 2015
I absolutely love this book and I love me some Brian. This is a great love story. The authors writing is so descriptive. It's like I can feel every emotion, touch, etc..if that makes any sense..lol. Keep up the good work. I'm looking forward to reading her next book.
May 6, 2025
Always here for the angst!
I’ve always believed that real love takes hard work to make it a success. And nothing worth having comes easy! Destiny and Brian’s journey showcased the effort it took to navigate their love through outside forces and obstacles that were at times beyond their control. I’ma angst girl, so give it to me straight, with no chaser. And that’s exactly what Jacinta did in the first two books of this series. Raven and Dorian are up next! Then I’ll be waiting for the next release since I’ll be finished with the whole catalog. Looking forward to what you have in store for us next, Jacinta! I heard you’re working on something new!
I’ve always believed that real love takes hard work to make it a success. And nothing worth having comes easy! Destiny and Brian’s journey showcased the effort it took to navigate their love through outside forces and obstacles that were at times beyond their control. I’ma angst girl, so give it to me straight, with no chaser. And that’s exactly what Jacinta did in the first two books of this series. Raven and Dorian are up next! Then I’ll be waiting for the next release since I’ll be finished with the whole catalog. Looking forward to what you have in store for us next, Jacinta! I heard you’re working on something new!
January 30, 2015
Not much time has passed since Book 1, Better Than Okay and really that's how it seems for Brian and Destiny..better than okay. In a short period of time, love has bonded them and also covered them in their darkest moments. Brian's love for Destiny has healed a lot of old wounds inside her, yet it's intensity also brings out some of her insecurties. When Brian's past finally comes to the forefront, they find that love may not be able to overcome some of life's obstacles they thought it would.
How can an author pull out so many emotions in you through a story? How? But that's what Howard does, she evokes so many emotions through her words effortlessly. I savored this book and read it in little doses; just didn't want to see it end. I get so emotional over each of her stories which is not a bad thing at all. It just shows her ability to connect with the reader on that level. Her characters are so relatable and likeable to the point you feel you know them and can even see yourself in their shoes. Brian and Destiny's chemistry left me inspired and really showed the various degrees of love. The simplest act such as eye contact for example between these two revealed more than I was hoping for. I love how everything is not automatic in the plot; there is a build or if you will antcipation between the main characters that is so fulfilling when it all comes together. Howard just has a way with writing about flawed characters that I find to be so geniune in intent. This is my third book by her and I can't wait to read the third installment of this Love Always Series!
How can an author pull out so many emotions in you through a story? How? But that's what Howard does, she evokes so many emotions through her words effortlessly. I savored this book and read it in little doses; just didn't want to see it end. I get so emotional over each of her stories which is not a bad thing at all. It just shows her ability to connect with the reader on that level. Her characters are so relatable and likeable to the point you feel you know them and can even see yourself in their shoes. Brian and Destiny's chemistry left me inspired and really showed the various degrees of love. The simplest act such as eye contact for example between these two revealed more than I was hoping for. I love how everything is not automatic in the plot; there is a build or if you will antcipation between the main characters that is so fulfilling when it all comes together. Howard just has a way with writing about flawed characters that I find to be so geniune in intent. This is my third book by her and I can't wait to read the third installment of this Love Always Series!
April 16, 2015
I didn't want a follow-up story for Brian and Destiny. I wanted to believe they were off living their happily ever after, and I didn't want to think (or read) about any further problems between them. Well, of course, I couldn't help myself and had to read this book. I'm so glad I did. I was happy to see that Destiny was moving past what happened to her in Better Than Okay, and was still seeing her therapist. She seems relaxed, happy and self-assured in her relationship, and her new job. Brian is still sweet, caring, loving Brian.
Trouble comes when both Brian and Destiny pick up admirers of the opposite sex, and both are seemingly oblivious to what's happening. Add in Brian moving his little sister to Miami, and refusing to let Destiny be much help, and tensions begin to crop up between the lovebirds. Their responses to this trouble, especially Brian's, showed me that they still have some growing and maturing to do, individually and as a couple. I have no doubt that they'll have their happily ever after, but I don't think they're ready for the next big step.
We also see Brian's mom trying to make amends, but Brian is not having it. What she does near the end that puts a crack in Brian's shell, had me in tears. So beautiful. I hope that as the series continues, she, Brian and Lexi begin to heal their relationships.
Another really good read from Jacinta Howard. I can't wait fir Dorian and Raven's story!
Trouble comes when both Brian and Destiny pick up admirers of the opposite sex, and both are seemingly oblivious to what's happening. Add in Brian moving his little sister to Miami, and refusing to let Destiny be much help, and tensions begin to crop up between the lovebirds. Their responses to this trouble, especially Brian's, showed me that they still have some growing and maturing to do, individually and as a couple. I have no doubt that they'll have their happily ever after, but I don't think they're ready for the next big step.
We also see Brian's mom trying to make amends, but Brian is not having it. What she does near the end that puts a crack in Brian's shell, had me in tears. So beautiful. I hope that as the series continues, she, Brian and Lexi begin to heal their relationships.
Another really good read from Jacinta Howard. I can't wait fir Dorian and Raven's story!
January 23, 2015
"One thing I’ve learned in these past few months is that love isn’t just a feeling. Love is a choice because feelings come and go. But loving you is my decision for life.”
Brian and Destiny's story is summed up in those three sentences. When your relationship is built on love, the circumstances and obstacles you're faced with, will not break it. It make shake a little, but it can't be broken.
I enjoyed reading the continuation of Brian and Destiny's journey. I particularly enjoyed the transparency of Brian's love for Destiny. He didn't shy away from letting everyone know that Destiny was it for him. He catered to her needs, emotionally and physically, without being sappy and unbelievable.
Jacinta's books are extremely well written and they ooze sexy. You can hear the soundtrack as you cuddle with her words and see the characters as they share their most private moments together. As in her other stories, love and its soundtrack concurs all.
I can't wait to read the next installment to see how Dorian and Raven's story plays out.
Thank you Jacinta for sharing your gift with us.
Brian and Destiny's story is summed up in those three sentences. When your relationship is built on love, the circumstances and obstacles you're faced with, will not break it. It make shake a little, but it can't be broken.
I enjoyed reading the continuation of Brian and Destiny's journey. I particularly enjoyed the transparency of Brian's love for Destiny. He didn't shy away from letting everyone know that Destiny was it for him. He catered to her needs, emotionally and physically, without being sappy and unbelievable.
Jacinta's books are extremely well written and they ooze sexy. You can hear the soundtrack as you cuddle with her words and see the characters as they share their most private moments together. As in her other stories, love and its soundtrack concurs all.
I can't wait to read the next installment to see how Dorian and Raven's story plays out.
Thank you Jacinta for sharing your gift with us.
February 14, 2015
Brian and Destiny story continues and I love them even more. After years of being in love with his best friends cousin Brian finally let Destiny know his true feeling and she reveals she feels the same; however in the middle of discovering real love, tragedy hits them hard. They find a way to over come, but is love always enough. In "More Than Always" Brian is dealing with alot of issues from his new life with Destiny, new job, teenage sister Alexis & lost mother, Destiny starts to feel like Brian is shutting her out. They will go through typical relationship issues that only the strongest relationships can survive. Does Brian and Destiny have the strength to work through everything? READ READ READ READ
January 22, 2015
The Love Always series - one of my favorites. I can't wait for the next installment.
Here's why I would recommend reading this story. Jacinta just engages you in the story and life of her characters right away. Which is why I think she's such a fantastic writer. I am a true fan of her work.
Throughout the series I have developed a love for Brian. He is such a wonderful guy in so many ways. I won't elaborate much so that as others read the story they can find out why he's so great. I love the connection between Brian and Destiny so much that I know I'll revisit their story again.
Yes, I recommend reading this story as well as the entire series.
Here's why I would recommend reading this story. Jacinta just engages you in the story and life of her characters right away. Which is why I think she's such a fantastic writer. I am a true fan of her work.
Throughout the series I have developed a love for Brian. He is such a wonderful guy in so many ways. I won't elaborate much so that as others read the story they can find out why he's so great. I love the connection between Brian and Destiny so much that I know I'll revisit their story again.
Yes, I recommend reading this story as well as the entire series.
April 10, 2015
So good!
I really didn't think that Brian and Destiny needed another story after Better Than Okay, but I'm really happy that Ms. Howard wrote this book. More Than Always is a great story about the work that goes into keeping "happily ever after" happy. Unlike a lot of sequels, I felt that this book did add to the story told in the previous book, and wasn't written just because series are trendy. I'm really looking forward to the third book in the series, which was adroitly set up in the first two books. As amazing as it seems to me, every Jacinta Howard book that I read is more impressive than the one that came before it.
I really didn't think that Brian and Destiny needed another story after Better Than Okay, but I'm really happy that Ms. Howard wrote this book. More Than Always is a great story about the work that goes into keeping "happily ever after" happy. Unlike a lot of sequels, I felt that this book did add to the story told in the previous book, and wasn't written just because series are trendy. I'm really looking forward to the third book in the series, which was adroitly set up in the first two books. As amazing as it seems to me, every Jacinta Howard book that I read is more impressive than the one that came before it.
May 19, 2015
This is the wonderful continuation of Brian and Destiny's story.
Like every couple, Brian and Destiny have their ups and downs and, sad to say, there is someone that is wanting to see them apart. I loved seeing this couple together, and Brian is wonderful in showing her that he's all in in their relationship and how it's only her, and will always be only her.
More Than Always is a beautiful story of seeing them fight for their love and stopping at nothing to get their HEA, but will they get it? Will Destiny allow her insecurities to separate them? Will Brian's love be enough to get their HEA? You have to one click to find out. ~ Kara, 4.5 stars
Like every couple, Brian and Destiny have their ups and downs and, sad to say, there is someone that is wanting to see them apart. I loved seeing this couple together, and Brian is wonderful in showing her that he's all in in their relationship and how it's only her, and will always be only her.
More Than Always is a beautiful story of seeing them fight for their love and stopping at nothing to get their HEA, but will they get it? Will Destiny allow her insecurities to separate them? Will Brian's love be enough to get their HEA? You have to one click to find out. ~ Kara, 4.5 stars
February 23, 2015
Brian and Destiny- BRAB ONLINE BOOK CLUB
The saga continues and delves further into Brian and Destiny's story and I couldn't be happier. Brian and Destiny knew that they loved each other unconditionally, but sometimes jealousy, life and others threaten to derail what is destined to be.
The author takes her readers on this emotional journey; dealing with Brian's family issues and the upheavals in their relationship. Love conquers all, and I enjoyed the continuation of their story from beginning to end.
The saga continues and delves further into Brian and Destiny's story and I couldn't be happier. Brian and Destiny knew that they loved each other unconditionally, but sometimes jealousy, life and others threaten to derail what is destined to be.
The author takes her readers on this emotional journey; dealing with Brian's family issues and the upheavals in their relationship. Love conquers all, and I enjoyed the continuation of their story from beginning to end.
February 23, 2015
Just Wonderful
I just love being in love with a wonderful story.This is such a good story of growing and letting go of the bad stuff and trusting in love.The writer gets it right,you see the journey that Brain and Destiny take it to prove love might not conquer all but it understands and forgives.This is such a worthy series,one that you not only re-read but you recommend it to your friends.I can't wait for the next installment,hurry,hurry please!!!
I just love being in love with a wonderful story.This is such a good story of growing and letting go of the bad stuff and trusting in love.The writer gets it right,you see the journey that Brain and Destiny take it to prove love might not conquer all but it understands and forgives.This is such a worthy series,one that you not only re-read but you recommend it to your friends.I can't wait for the next installment,hurry,hurry please!!!
February 13, 2015
This book captured me so fast and I read through it in one day! I am completely in love with the love of Brian and Destiny! Looking forward to book 3 in the love always series!
April 25, 2015
Love it
I love books like this. The struggles to stay together even though space is required to step back and just think. Brian and Destiny had to realize that.
I love books like this. The struggles to stay together even though space is required to step back and just think. Brian and Destiny had to realize that.
May 17, 2015
great love story
Well developed characters navigating the everyday ups and downs of choosing to be in love and stay in love. A perfect romance
Well developed characters navigating the everyday ups and downs of choosing to be in love and stay in love. A perfect romance
March 11, 2015
Nice ending for Brian and Destiny.
January 28, 2019
More than always
Book one of the Love Always series focused more on Destiny. More than always kicks off before Brian moves Miami, by the reader getting a little background on what is going on with Him. Ms. Howard also wants to highlight that overall Brian and Destiny start out in a good place. The reader definitely went through some trials and tribulations with them in book one.
The book started out a little more light hearted and the personality of the characters really shines through. First I wondered why book two was necessary since Brian and Destiny were together. There was so much to unpack and so many deep rooted individual issues that impacted them as a couple. Brian is so guarded and the reader gets to really understand the internal trials and tribulations that Brian went through while trying to support Destiny, and for years prior while dealing with his Moms addiction.
There are also external factors that have to be dealt with as well in order for them to really be at peace. Ms. Howard knows how to write a good, rich story that will stick with the reader. The reader will fiercely root for this couple, hoping they will continue to love each other “more than always”.
Book one of the Love Always series focused more on Destiny. More than always kicks off before Brian moves Miami, by the reader getting a little background on what is going on with Him. Ms. Howard also wants to highlight that overall Brian and Destiny start out in a good place. The reader definitely went through some trials and tribulations with them in book one.
The book started out a little more light hearted and the personality of the characters really shines through. First I wondered why book two was necessary since Brian and Destiny were together. There was so much to unpack and so many deep rooted individual issues that impacted them as a couple. Brian is so guarded and the reader gets to really understand the internal trials and tribulations that Brian went through while trying to support Destiny, and for years prior while dealing with his Moms addiction.
There are also external factors that have to be dealt with as well in order for them to really be at peace. Ms. Howard knows how to write a good, rich story that will stick with the reader. The reader will fiercely root for this couple, hoping they will continue to love each other “more than always”.
May 4, 2020
I love that book two is from Brian’s POV. At least we get a lot more of his view
Star us mad disrespectful. Destiny is better than me
Destiny is being mad immature. That is not her steelo
Brian’s sister is spiraling out of control
Why would Tori and Chrissy get mad that folks want a hotel room when they don’t have room to accommodate. I’d get the room instead of sleeping on the floor. They’d just have to be mad
Even though nothing has happened, I feel like Jason and Egypt is going to be a problem 😡
I need my babies to get it together. All this petty arguing is not the wave
Oh hell no. Egypt is on one. Idc if it’s Alexis’f friend sister she got to go 100%
“I strongly suggest you shut the fuck up while you’re still able to.” She said what she said
Teresa’s letter was touching. I hope she’s really making a change
I already knew what was going down in the NO and it was the perfect place to happen 😍
Destiny and Brian fought for their love. Trials and tribulations in life couldn’t keep them down.
Star us mad disrespectful. Destiny is better than me
Destiny is being mad immature. That is not her steelo
Brian’s sister is spiraling out of control
Why would Tori and Chrissy get mad that folks want a hotel room when they don’t have room to accommodate. I’d get the room instead of sleeping on the floor. They’d just have to be mad
Even though nothing has happened, I feel like Jason and Egypt is going to be a problem 😡
I need my babies to get it together. All this petty arguing is not the wave
Oh hell no. Egypt is on one. Idc if it’s Alexis’f friend sister she got to go 100%
“I strongly suggest you shut the fuck up while you’re still able to.” She said what she said
Teresa’s letter was touching. I hope she’s really making a change
I already knew what was going down in the NO and it was the perfect place to happen 😍
Destiny and Brian fought for their love. Trials and tribulations in life couldn’t keep them down.
January 20, 2020
Why?
Wondered why a part two was necessary. Well it was. Brian and Destiny had to be explored a bit more-especially the nearly perfect Brian. Family...
Wondered why a part two was necessary. Well it was. Brian and Destiny had to be explored a bit more-especially the nearly perfect Brian. Family...
April 14, 2020
Awesome
This book was just awesome! I love me some Brian!! Omg he was so so awesome! I'm so happy that Destiny realised how much Brian really loved her!
This book was just awesome! I love me some Brian!! Omg he was so so awesome! I'm so happy that Destiny realised how much Brian really loved her!
January 17, 2022
sooo beautiful
Jacinta Howard what can I say? Girl you did your thang with this book. I actually cried. The love that Brian has for Destiney...UNMATCHED!
Jacinta Howard what can I say? Girl you did your thang with this book. I actually cried. The love that Brian has for Destiney...UNMATCHED!
February 20, 2022
Such a cute read. Loved their growth!!
October 13, 2016
Brian and Destiny have a complicated relationship. Love isn’t a question, and neither is their desire to be with each other. Yet, building a relationship requires a type of openness and effort that neither of them have any experience giving.
Brian is an amazing man that was trying to be too perfect, too strong, and too independent. He definitely didn’t know how to rely on Destiny or understand how to be her partner. His flaws were realistic in some ways because while he was kind of cocky about his charm and confidence with other people, never seeing a healthy romantic relationship definitely hadn’t prepared him for building what he needed to create with Destiny. At times, I wanted to see a little more growth from him and kept holding my breath praying for him to get his act together. Jacinta Howard almost had me passing out from holding my breath. Oh the pain that couple had to endure was heartbreaking for sure!
I will never fully understand the male brain and why men just don’t grasp how their blasé attitudes about the attention they receive from women can make the special lady in their lives feel insecure. Yeah, Destiny should know beyond a doubt that Brian loves her with his whole heart, but shouldn’t he make sure other women know that, too? To be fair, Destiny was also a bit guilty of not clearly drawing boundaries for her business associates because of the casual nature of those interactions, so there were plenty of opportunities in this relationship for hurt feelings and misunderstandings. But her friendships never confronted them in professional, social, and family life like Brian’s did.
Without giving too much away, I'll say that Destiny knew all about those “thirsty” women, but damn that Egypt! Okay, so I’m pretty sure that every reader could see this “other woman” element of the story line coming, yet it was still well-handled, written with great care, and filled with intense emotion. I'm pretty sure that I would have reacted exactly like Destiny did. Maybe not. I definitely wanted to slap Brian! There are so many ways he could have explained what did and did not happen, but the truth is that fear is a powerful thing.
It’s interesting how people who are afraid of opening up and making themselves vulnerable know they’re already vulnerable at the same time they’re fighting against changing the behavior that’s threatening to undermine the happiness they so desperately need. Jacinta Howard plows through this issue and doesn’t let Brian get away with anything! He is uncovered and we feel sorry for his pain even though the predicament is entirely his fault. We understood his heartache and his hesitations, but he never truly made the effort to understand what Destiny needed from him or to move beyond his own hang-ups. I’m glad Destiny stood her ground!
Even though Brian felt they weren’t on the same page, there was so much Destiny kept saying that Brian just didn’t seem to truly hear that I honestly doubted whether this book could have a happy ending. Do you see what happened there? It’s like I was saying with the first book in the series, Better Than Always . . . Jacinta made me feel Destiny’s hopelessness. Wow!
So, I’m not going to tell you how the rest of the book goes except to say that the author does a great job of keeping the reader in her feelings. Keep the tissues close! We get to understand a lot about Brian’s past and see the things that force his growth, and they’re emotional. We also understand so much of how Destiny is processing everything that’s going on and why she makes the decisions that she does. We tag along as these lovers finally stumble back to each other and figure out how to face the challenge of being in a relationship. The title of the series is Love Always, which is interesting because neither of them had faith in love or any positive experiences with romance from the very beginning. You’ll love how the author pulls everything together, though, to turn them into people who become capable of handling the challenge.
More Than Always is a sappy title, but it’s actually appropriate by the time you get to the end of this novel. After everything Brian and Destiny go through, after the history that’s revealed and the transformations that take place, their love had better be unshakable! I truly enjoyed this book, and so will you.
My rating for More Than Always is four and a half hearts.
Brian is an amazing man that was trying to be too perfect, too strong, and too independent. He definitely didn’t know how to rely on Destiny or understand how to be her partner. His flaws were realistic in some ways because while he was kind of cocky about his charm and confidence with other people, never seeing a healthy romantic relationship definitely hadn’t prepared him for building what he needed to create with Destiny. At times, I wanted to see a little more growth from him and kept holding my breath praying for him to get his act together. Jacinta Howard almost had me passing out from holding my breath. Oh the pain that couple had to endure was heartbreaking for sure!
I will never fully understand the male brain and why men just don’t grasp how their blasé attitudes about the attention they receive from women can make the special lady in their lives feel insecure. Yeah, Destiny should know beyond a doubt that Brian loves her with his whole heart, but shouldn’t he make sure other women know that, too? To be fair, Destiny was also a bit guilty of not clearly drawing boundaries for her business associates because of the casual nature of those interactions, so there were plenty of opportunities in this relationship for hurt feelings and misunderstandings. But her friendships never confronted them in professional, social, and family life like Brian’s did.
Without giving too much away, I'll say that Destiny knew all about those “thirsty” women, but damn that Egypt! Okay, so I’m pretty sure that every reader could see this “other woman” element of the story line coming, yet it was still well-handled, written with great care, and filled with intense emotion. I'm pretty sure that I would have reacted exactly like Destiny did. Maybe not. I definitely wanted to slap Brian! There are so many ways he could have explained what did and did not happen, but the truth is that fear is a powerful thing.
It’s interesting how people who are afraid of opening up and making themselves vulnerable know they’re already vulnerable at the same time they’re fighting against changing the behavior that’s threatening to undermine the happiness they so desperately need. Jacinta Howard plows through this issue and doesn’t let Brian get away with anything! He is uncovered and we feel sorry for his pain even though the predicament is entirely his fault. We understood his heartache and his hesitations, but he never truly made the effort to understand what Destiny needed from him or to move beyond his own hang-ups. I’m glad Destiny stood her ground!
Even though Brian felt they weren’t on the same page, there was so much Destiny kept saying that Brian just didn’t seem to truly hear that I honestly doubted whether this book could have a happy ending. Do you see what happened there? It’s like I was saying with the first book in the series, Better Than Always . . . Jacinta made me feel Destiny’s hopelessness. Wow!
So, I’m not going to tell you how the rest of the book goes except to say that the author does a great job of keeping the reader in her feelings. Keep the tissues close! We get to understand a lot about Brian’s past and see the things that force his growth, and they’re emotional. We also understand so much of how Destiny is processing everything that’s going on and why she makes the decisions that she does. We tag along as these lovers finally stumble back to each other and figure out how to face the challenge of being in a relationship. The title of the series is Love Always, which is interesting because neither of them had faith in love or any positive experiences with romance from the very beginning. You’ll love how the author pulls everything together, though, to turn them into people who become capable of handling the challenge.
More Than Always is a sappy title, but it’s actually appropriate by the time you get to the end of this novel. After everything Brian and Destiny go through, after the history that’s revealed and the transformations that take place, their love had better be unshakable! I truly enjoyed this book, and so will you.
My rating for More Than Always is four and a half hearts.
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