Despite It All

Code of Honor #7

by Reese Knightley

An FBI agent and military sergeant get all tangled up.

Sergeant Joshua Greene -
As a favor, Greene accepts a special assignment that puts him in the immediate vicinity of the disapproving Forest Taylor. Greene honors truth above all else so when a misunderstanding is cleared up between them, he is suddenly faced with a decision that challenges said honor. Should he come clean and tell Forest the truth or keep quiet?

FBI agent Forest Taylor -
Forest has his own set of problems, so he doesn’t need the annoying Joshua Greene coming in all bossy and making matters worse. Greene doesn't even like him. Or does he? When he gets mixed signals from Greene, he can’t help but wonder, should he back off or take a chance on Greene and lay it all on the line?

The stakes are high and the lies, secrecy, and choices start adding up. Despite it all, can Forest convince Greene to stay? Will Greene admit the truth or will he take the easy way out and walk away?

*While Despite it All can be enjoyed as a standalone, it is part of the series and couples from previous books are mentioned.
*Trigger warnings can be viewed in the "look inside" option.
* Code of Honor, Cobalt Security, and Out for Justice series are loosely connected.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Military Fiction, Action, Audiobook, Contemporary, Crime

1 pages, Audio CD

First published July 12, 2021

About the author

Reese Knightley spends her time creating stories from the characters rattling around in her head. Her love of reading mystery, action and adventure, and fantasy books led to her love of writing. Reese works as a full time writer. She loves to hear from her readers.

Reviews

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another favourite in the series

I really liked this one, although the investigation element side was perhaps a bit lacking and left a fair few explanations missing on the way.

However, Forest and Greene made this book such an enjoyable read, they were perfect for each other once the later was able to accept he was deserving of being loved.

There's plenty of action but it doesn't overtake the narrative and there's a lot of time spent with just the two men working out their feelings.

We also seem to have moved on to establishing the new team which is going to be the basis for the next series I believe.

[D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

One thing is bothering me about Forest's relationship with his ex, Alex. Mason stated: “He didn’t leave you because of some scars. Alex was an asshole, plain and simple" but Forest said to Joshua that he split up with Alex before the accident. What Mason and Forest said were 2 different things and it confused me.

Nevertheless, this book is full with actions, suspense and a bit touch of romance. Enjoyable enough for me to give it 4 stars.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hat mir richtig gut gefallen. Ich liebe Forrest und Greene und die ganze Maulwurf Geschichte 🥰. Nur das Ende war mir etwas zu kitschig und really? Der Maulwurf und seine Helfer waren so offensichtlich. Zwei hatte ich direkt auf dem Schirm 😂🤷🏻‍♀️

[Candice · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I needed to read book 6 again, because I forgot a lot of their backstory. I didn't enjoy the book as much because of it.

[Alexa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sorry, these two are the best couple in the whole series 🥹

[Lea · Rating 3 out of 5]

— 3,5 Stars

[Martyna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not entirely sure if I liked it or not. Or to put it another way, the content was great, but with the characters I have different feelings. As much as I liked Greene and his story was brilliantly written (although I would have even liked a bit more detail about him looking at other books and other characters who had definitely more screen time) Forest annoyed me for most of the book and God knows how many times I wanted to facepalm or shake him a bit. For example, there was a bit of bragging about how important and powerful he was and how many people he had under him once upon a time, and somehow in the book it didn't really look like that.... It looked more like he was damsel in distress apart from maybe two or three actions where he as a matter of fact did have a slight room for showing off. And then how he's doing great on his own and he doesn't need anyone else to work with cause he's a one-man badass unit, and he doesn't care about anything and what a macho guy he is who doesn't need help, to suddenly being content as a stay-in-home dad of 3/4 kids? Yyyyy... I'm sorry, but what the hell happened here? Overall, the story was for me a whirlwind of okays and mehs, while the ending/epilogue was great.



Pairing ranking:
1. Liam & Spencer
2. Justin & Elijah
3. Zane & Isaac
4. Luke & Dillon
5. Maddox & River
6. Greene & Forest
7. Diesel & Triton

[Jozey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recovery

Both MC have been thru a lot.
Forest is trying to get over his bestfriend death and search for a mole in FBI agents. When his bestfriend wife, friend and cover-agent FBI, is MIA, he is devastated. He want to search for her too but FBI policy refuse it.
Sergeant Greene is a recovery alcoholic and is assigned as bodyguard of Forest while his team is searching for Sammy. His last meeting with Forest didnt go well even if the guy is soooo interesting. He is struggling with his alcohol craving, his feeling with forest and how he will found himselve involve emotionaly with his sassy FBI agent.
The book is interesting, I also found some part even funny. You feel the emotions.

I gave 4 ⭐
I remove 1 star because I would have like to being involve more in the searching part. What they saw on those computer, who can be the most suspect, who they arrested and what they say, who is involve... I would have take more detective, action scene. And more explaining on the epilogue.....
And... wth happen with Beckett and H? 2 year after and they are still tiptoeing. I want that book now... please Reese?

[Angelica Holmes · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars rounded up

Despite it All is the seventh book in the Code of Honor series by Reese Knightley. Each bookis based on a different couple and this story is about Joshua and Forrest. Forrest is an FBI agent who is seat after a mole in the organization. Joshua is a recovering alcoholic that is living day to day with his demons. They get off to a rough start and are forced to work together when Forrest's bestfriend and fellow FBI agent is kidnapped.
Over all this book is as consistantly good as the rest of the series. The balance of romance and action makes this story very readable. The characters are all very entertaining and act more like a family than a military unit.
My only complaint is the end is Kinda choppy. It seems like it might have been written in a rush. All the information you could want is there but some of it is summed up when it could have used more, or just edited together a little funny.
But in the end it is a good read and I do recommend it to those who enjoy can action packed romance. I would suggest reading the other books in the series although its not completely necessary, It mostly helps with character/ event references.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a favour, Sergeant Joshua Greene accepts a special assignment that puts him in the immediate vicinity of the disapproving Forest Taylor. Greene honours truth above all else so when a misunderstanding is cleared up between them, he is suddenly faced with a decision that challenges said honour. Should he come clean and tell Forest the truth or keep quiet? FBI agent Forest Taylor has his own set of problems, so he doesn’t need the annoying Joshua Greene coming in all bossy and making matters worse. Greene doesn't even like him. Or does he? When he gets mixed signals from Greene, he can’t help but wonder, should he back off or take a chance on Greene and lay it all on the line? The stakes are high and the lies, secrecy, and choices start adding up. Despite it all, can Forest convince Greene to stay? Will Greene admit the truth or will he take the easy way out and walk away?

This was an enjoyable story with two men who had a mutual attraction but rubbed each other the wrong way. Their verbal sparring was fun. Lots of emotions and passion in this story. This was an MM story with mature content.

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sneakers & Sunshine

I love Reese’s books. I know when I start one it’s going to be an intense, action-packed, high heat ride that I’ll want to relive over and over. I absolutely adore the men she writes. It’s as if all my favorite action stars live in one giant interconnected MM romance world and have formed a found family so tight that nothing will ever come between them. Heck ya!

I’m so, so happy that Forest and Greene found their HEA together. They have chemistry but more than that they understand one another. I loved how Forest wasn’t afraid to stand up for himself and many a time his actions made me chuckle. But when Greene finally let down his walls, it’s a beautiful thing to see.

“‘Tell me your dreams,’ Greene said.
‘Why?’ He tipped his head to the side, catching those gray eyes.
‘I want to make them all come true…’”

Gah, bring on the heart eyes, I’m all a-twitter for these two amazing men. I’m even more excited for how the future is shaping up for them. Now, let’s talk about Holden and Beckett…

[Anabela.M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like Reese Knightley wrote this book just to make me happy. For one, Infinity and Fury members were hugely present from beginning to the end, and I can't get enough of these guys and their interactions. Also, the story was one thrilling adventure, full of action, spying, lies, secrets and dangers, and I never knew what would happen next.

And, of course, there was the romance between Forest and Greene. The author has started teasing about these two men several books back and I couldn't wait to get my hand on their story. The tension between them was so dense you could cut it with a knife, but they took their sweet time to acknowledge it both at the same moment. I lost count of the times I wanted to shake either Greene or Forest, make them get some sense. But, they finally made it, thankfully, and as I expected, they were simply explosive together...and incredibly swoony.

Want to have your fill of action and laughter with your romance? Then you need Despite It All. You'll love it!

[August June 💘 · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read Book 5 of this series "Whatever It Takes" and liked it. It was a perfect mix of action, suspense and romance. I tried hard, very hard to push through this book but I couldnt. I had to leave it at 50%. I did not like Forest. Basically I don't like military or secret ops books where one of the MCs is shown as running a parallel ops just because he can't trust others to bring justice or that he is the only one who can save the day. This is what exactly happens here and for similar reasons, Forest acted as a child. If you are working for an institution which you claim as your life, but don't follow the policies of same said institution. Forest's friend / agent Summer gets kidnapped and Forest takes it on himself to resolve the mystery even though he knows Sec of Defence has got a team to look into it. I found such antics childish.

And Greene's supposed secret (god knows what) and his push/pull was irritating. Greene is supposed to be some great ops guy that Forest slips away from him twice *eye rolling*

Both MCs grated on my nerves with their stupid behaviour.

DNF!

[Patricia C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story from Reese Knightly!

I was hoping another story would materialize from the groups Infinity and Fury. Ms. Knightly makes the story come to life. Forest was attracted to Joshua Greene. Joshua was a alcoholic and was suffering from PTSD while Forest was recovering from an auto accident where his best friend was killed by a drunk driver. Forest was on leave and had to come back to work because his other best friend who was an FBI agent was kidnapped by the group who was selling secrets to Terrorists. Greene was assigned to watch Forest by the Secretary of Defense. A beautiful love story by two people who had demons they were battling but were better together rather than being apart. When Forest life was threatened and he almost died made Greene decide that he really loved him and couldn’t live without him.

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Back to listening to the audiobook version, the narrator's voice is growing on me but in a few instances I couldn't distinguish who was speaking and the author's use of "the man" instead of the character's name didn't help clarify.

The whole setup was a little OTT and so girly girl. I know that's not a politically correct term, but, honestly, some of the dialogue and most of their thinking was so "my head is spinning and I don't know what to do" or "could he possibly love me? nah I don't think so" that I couldn't visualize them being ex-miliary and FBI. Sorry, but their descriptions of the body types and previous actions and the sharp thinking required of their jobs didn't fit with the thinking of a fifteen-year-old girl.

Really, this one was a 2 star story but the narration brought it up to three. One more to go and since I own it, onward to the next one it is.

[DarcLibrarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worthy of Love

Infinity's Sergeant Joshua Greene agrees to help find a missing FBI agent. This brings him into direct contact with the man he wants but can never have, or so he thinks. When FBI agent Forest Taylor's best friend Summer goes missing he will break any rule to find her and he sure doesn't need a babysitter. And definitely not the man he's been pining over.

As the search for Summer hots up and with possible moles in the FBI, Greene struggles to keep Taylor safe and his attraction under wraps. Both may be impossible. But Greene has a secret he is sure will turn Forest against him. Despite it all can they find the happiness the other team members have found.

Another excellent Free Kindle Unlimited book in the series. With two flawed characters and an intriguing plot.



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[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is a bit different

This book is more about the MCs and their inner struggles and backgrounds. There is of course a case revolving around National Security, kidnapping, terrorists but it serves more as a framework from which to get to know the MCs and for them to work their relationship out. It also of course provides the crisis point that propels the relationship arc.

In addition to demons we’ve seen before in this universe we get an MC who is an alcoholic which adds an interesting layer into the “I’m not good enough for him” trope we’ve had before. From my limited knowledge of the disease the author does a good and sensitive job portraying the character’s struggles.

[ANNBOOKSHELF · Rating 4 out of 5]

Need to see struggle to happy ever after? This story shows Phoenix riding from the ashes - holding on hope for let mortals!

Green has served his time & lost men that leaves scares that can't be seen. Forrest is given a high position by earning it but still wants out from behind the desk. A brilliant man that has to solve the cases like mysteries driven. This series is phenomenal the military, FBI, CIA and twist and turns. Action packed. What really makes the book is the emotional journey. V2S2 more reviews check out book reviews and my opinion and thoughts & others at @my2centsbooklover. Thank you!

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

great series

This can be a standalone but I wouldn’t recommend it. The backstories and character building IMO make the series.
This is the 1st book I actually read, first 6 went with audiobooks- book 7 & 8 aren’t available in audio. The one issue with written version is use of POV pronouns, chapters are based on a MC POV but the “he” pronoun suggests someone else is speaking it makes the dialogue somewhat confusing at times. However, the actual story of Greene & Forest and their path to finding the FBI mole is a fantastic read.

[Kendra T · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely liked Joshua and Forest. Forest was a great match for him, and Joshua really worked through some of his trauma to get to a place of happiness and contentment. This had an storyline, but I got confused at times at exactly what Forest’s job really was. It was like they decided he was going to hold every job all at one. Lol. It worked itself out and I was able to parse through it mostly, but it took a bit. Regardless, I liked these two together.

[Andrea · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.55 stars?? Idk, I might raise the rating? Usually, when I liked MC1 I didn’t like MC2, and then when I liked MC2, I didn’t like MC1… there were also various other things I didn’t like, although, there was a bit from like 90% to like 95-96% that I liked. So far, unlike the Out of Justice series, i’m really not liking this series… which is quite a bummer, and the reason I keep trying to find one book in this series I like🫠

[Daki Crow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite It All offers a fresh dynamic in the series, pairing Sergeant Joshua Greene and FBI agent Forest Taylor in a story full of friction, banter, and unexpected chemistry. Greene’s straightforward, truth-above-all nature clashes perfectly with Forest’s more guarded approach, giving their interactions that irresistible black-cat/golden-retriever energy.

The plot adds a nice twist compared to the previous books, with misunderstandings, mixed signals, and high stakes layered over their growing connection. Watching their initial tension shift into something deeper kept things engaging, and their contrasting personalities made every scene between them fun to read.

With its mix of suspense, humor, and slow-burn romance, Despite It All is an entertaining and satisfying installment in the Code of Honor series.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.
Joshua and Forest.
MM.
Enjoyable read.
I really liked these characters.
The story was set up well. With a slow burn between both characters. Which was good as it gave the story a chance to build and not be centred on the relationship /sexual relationship of the characters.
Recommend.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the book but I have to admit, I couldn't figure out who in hell Forest was working for so it made parts of the book confusing for me but I'm guessing that's a "me" problem. Other that that, it was great. Lots of action, suspense and cases solved. I just really enjoy this author's books and am looking forward to the next in the series or any of her series to be honest.

[Melissa Polk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I truly loved this one, too. I'm not sure why but it ticked the right boxes for me. Forest is definitely more interesting than the previous books make him out to be. I'm wondering if the other series by the same author related to this one--re: pegasus and the like. Which I suppose I'll find out by reading them!

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can see Forest moving straight to the top of my "favorite" characters list on my spreadsheet... just sayin'!

I can't stress enough how much I admire and respect Joshua or anyone who is fighting to overcome an addiction. Many fight, but not all win... respect is the least we can offer when we see or know someone fighting this battle.

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Greene and Forest!!

Forest was a harass and Greene was sexy and dangerous too. He couldn't see that he deserved love but Forest showed him. Good book! Still loving this series.

[Kwaj · Rating 2 out of 5]

This storyline felt very disjointed and was difficult to follow for about 60% of the book and didn't really gel until almost three quarters of the way thru. Not what I'm used to from this author or this series so that was a bit surprising honestly.

[Marsha L Respess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Forest and Josh. I really felt for Josh feeling not worthy of Forest because of his background and his being an alcoholic and Forest was so sweet and loving and I was teary-eyed when Summer was rescued and the mole(s)was revealed. Love having people from the other groups making an appearance.

[Amanda Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book

I almost gave this one 4 stars but decided on 5 for the superb ending. There just wasn't enough suspense and excitement in this one. I felt like the main part of recovery for someone was rushed. But still worth the read. Enjoy