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The Abandoned Brothers #3
It's Always Us
What if you give your whole heart away? Do you ever really get it back?
Lex has just been going through the motions for years, trying to let go of the one man she can’t seem to forget. When she finds herself getting ready to take on a life she’s never wanted, she realizes she’s stuck in the same place she was at sixteen—heart stolen and fully belonging to another. Now, Lex is determined to move forward and finally face reality—life without him.
But when the past returns, making declarations she’d never thought she’d hear again, will Lex take a chance to finally go after what she’s always wanted?
Mark has been living the high life…at least, that’s what the media believes. Reality is, he’s spent the last eight years thinking of the one who promised to love him always. For Mark, time has passed and damage was done, but he just can’t convince himself that her devotion wasn’t real. When time is running out—or so he thinks—he takes a shot to find out once and for all if her words were honest and true.
When the fun-loving, professional quarterback makes his play, will he find that the hope he’s held onto is everything he needed it to be? What if it’s so much more than he ever could have imagined?
It’s Always Us is a touching love story that reminds us when all hope is lost…love lasts.
This story is part of a series but if you don't mind a few spoilers, it can be read as a stand-alone.
Lex has just been going through the motions for years, trying to let go of the one man she can’t seem to forget. When she finds herself getting ready to take on a life she’s never wanted, she realizes she’s stuck in the same place she was at sixteen—heart stolen and fully belonging to another. Now, Lex is determined to move forward and finally face reality—life without him.
But when the past returns, making declarations she’d never thought she’d hear again, will Lex take a chance to finally go after what she’s always wanted?
Mark has been living the high life…at least, that’s what the media believes. Reality is, he’s spent the last eight years thinking of the one who promised to love him always. For Mark, time has passed and damage was done, but he just can’t convince himself that her devotion wasn’t real. When time is running out—or so he thinks—he takes a shot to find out once and for all if her words were honest and true.
When the fun-loving, professional quarterback makes his play, will he find that the hope he’s held onto is everything he needed it to be? What if it’s so much more than he ever could have imagined?
It’s Always Us is a touching love story that reminds us when all hope is lost…love lasts.
This story is part of a series but if you don't mind a few spoilers, it can be read as a stand-alone.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2024
305 people are currently reading
1268 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Williams
4 books211 followersStacy Williams lives with her husband and children in Illinois. She writes in five-minute increments between homeschooling and extracurricular activities. She’s spent years dreaming about writing love stories that in a worn and broken world, remind us of what we're truly made for.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
September 6, 2024
ALL THE STARS! 🤩
When I was given this book, Stacy told me to buckle up and boy was she right. This book never went in the direction I thought it would go, yet it was also everything I hoped it would be and MORE! 🥹
I have loved Mark’s character since I Got You and I just LOVE that he finally got his second chance with Lex. Their history is complicated and that all plays heavily into their journey to happily ever after.
I love that Stacy likes to keep some tropes a surprise in her books and this one did NOT disappoint! Trust me, you’re going to want to go into this one blind because it makes the experience SO MUCH FUN! 🤭
Content: fade to black, some strong language
When I was given this book, Stacy told me to buckle up and boy was she right. This book never went in the direction I thought it would go, yet it was also everything I hoped it would be and MORE! 🥹
I have loved Mark’s character since I Got You and I just LOVE that he finally got his second chance with Lex. Their history is complicated and that all plays heavily into their journey to happily ever after.
I love that Stacy likes to keep some tropes a surprise in her books and this one did NOT disappoint! Trust me, you’re going to want to go into this one blind because it makes the experience SO MUCH FUN! 🤭
Content: fade to black, some strong language
October 7, 2024
💞From start to finish this book was everything I hoped for! I am a Stacy Williams super fan and will read everything she writes 😍
🏈MARK - a softie wrapped in a smirk and a wolfish grin. I loved his unwavering loyalty toward Lex and the way he was gone for her 🫠
🏈He was a shameless flirt, I loved how he always knew how to get a blush and smile out of the quiet girl 🥰
🏈 I loved how he was the more emotional/dramatic one in this dynamic. He was the impulsive one who struggled with controlling his emotions at times. I feel like in a lot of books it’s the other way around and it was refreshing to see.
🔧LEX - selfless and willing to sacrifice anything for the people she loves. She’s always thinking of others needs before her own.
🔧 quiet and reserved but not timid. She will fight for what she believes in on her own terms.
🔧 a woman of few words (an internal processor)it’s rare to see that in a female main character and I loved that about her.
🔧 All of Stacy’s FMCs are incredibly strong women but in very different ways. I loved how that came through in Lex and especially enjoyed seeing her interactions with Andie and Maggie. I just love these sassy ladies!
💞 By far the most special thing about this series is the bond between these 3 brothers (not by blood) they found each other in a group home when they needed each other the most and never let go. They get angry, annoyed, make mistakes but love each other fiercely. They aren’t afraid to call each other out, and offer support when needed. I absolutely love every call, text, and conversation that they have in this book!
💞 The way this family of broken people has found each other and clung together through thick and thin melts my heart!! They are desperately all in when they commit. These men love with all they have, they are imperfect but they understand the value of love and family and they will fight for it with all they have.
CW:
Adult language, fade to black
🏈MARK - a softie wrapped in a smirk and a wolfish grin. I loved his unwavering loyalty toward Lex and the way he was gone for her 🫠
🏈He was a shameless flirt, I loved how he always knew how to get a blush and smile out of the quiet girl 🥰
🏈 I loved how he was the more emotional/dramatic one in this dynamic. He was the impulsive one who struggled with controlling his emotions at times. I feel like in a lot of books it’s the other way around and it was refreshing to see.
🔧LEX - selfless and willing to sacrifice anything for the people she loves. She’s always thinking of others needs before her own.
🔧 quiet and reserved but not timid. She will fight for what she believes in on her own terms.
🔧 a woman of few words (an internal processor)it’s rare to see that in a female main character and I loved that about her.
🔧 All of Stacy’s FMCs are incredibly strong women but in very different ways. I loved how that came through in Lex and especially enjoyed seeing her interactions with Andie and Maggie. I just love these sassy ladies!
💞 By far the most special thing about this series is the bond between these 3 brothers (not by blood) they found each other in a group home when they needed each other the most and never let go. They get angry, annoyed, make mistakes but love each other fiercely. They aren’t afraid to call each other out, and offer support when needed. I absolutely love every call, text, and conversation that they have in this book!
💞 The way this family of broken people has found each other and clung together through thick and thin melts my heart!! They are desperately all in when they commit. These men love with all they have, they are imperfect but they understand the value of love and family and they will fight for it with all they have.
CW:
Adult language, fade to black
September 12, 2024
4 Stars.
🏈 The vibes:
- dual timeline
- Football
- Learning disability rep
- Foster kid rep
- Second chance
- Fade to black.
🔧 My thoughts:
We have Mark and Lex - highschool sweethearts who parted ways 8 years ago but never fully moved on. When they come crashing back together, will they be able to finally get the timing right or will the chaos of life and circumstance once again pull them apart?
🏈 Mark was such a golden retriever MMC which endeared me to him. He was impulsive with his love but also relentless. There were so many moments I wanted to sit him down and have him fully think through his choices before rushing into them- but also it was hard for me to stay mad at him too long because his intentions always felt pure.
🔧 As for Lex - I liked some of her qualities and how resilient she was. She made some decisions for other people based on her own insecurities (ie you deserve better than me)- and I really struggle with this in characters. I did love to see her growth though and I loved her passion for fixing cars. I found this infectious.
🔧I felt some repetition in the themes of Lex and Mark, and sometimes it felt like they were just spinning through the same conversation//issue, but the ultimate resolution was fulfilling to me.
🏈 Overall, another great read by Stacy. I loved seeing all three brothers back together. If you love football (or even if you don’t), second chances, and an emotional rollercoaster - try this one.
Release date: October 7, 2024.
Note- closed door/FTB; language.
Thank you so much to Stacy Williams for the gifted copy.
🏈 The vibes:
- dual timeline
- Football
- Learning disability rep
- Foster kid rep
- Second chance
- Fade to black.
🔧 My thoughts:
We have Mark and Lex - highschool sweethearts who parted ways 8 years ago but never fully moved on. When they come crashing back together, will they be able to finally get the timing right or will the chaos of life and circumstance once again pull them apart?
🏈 Mark was such a golden retriever MMC which endeared me to him. He was impulsive with his love but also relentless. There were so many moments I wanted to sit him down and have him fully think through his choices before rushing into them- but also it was hard for me to stay mad at him too long because his intentions always felt pure.
🔧 As for Lex - I liked some of her qualities and how resilient she was. She made some decisions for other people based on her own insecurities (ie you deserve better than me)- and I really struggle with this in characters. I did love to see her growth though and I loved her passion for fixing cars. I found this infectious.
🔧I felt some repetition in the themes of Lex and Mark, and sometimes it felt like they were just spinning through the same conversation//issue, but the ultimate resolution was fulfilling to me.
🏈 Overall, another great read by Stacy. I loved seeing all three brothers back together. If you love football (or even if you don’t), second chances, and an emotional rollercoaster - try this one.
Release date: October 7, 2024.
Note- closed door/FTB; language.
Thank you so much to Stacy Williams for the gifted copy.
April 25, 2025
it feels like just yesterday i was reading ‘i got you’, and fell in love with three brothers who grew up together in the foster system, and now here we are, over a year later, with the third and final book in the series.
MARK! if you didn’t immediately fall in love with mark from the jump, you need to get your head checked. fun loving, goofy, and flirty mark who hides so much pain behind a happy go lucky exterior. i absolutely loved getting to the root of who this man is. stacy gave us a hero who is so full of love and willing to do anything and make any sacrifice for those he cares about which is why lex is so perfect for him. because she is the same and let me tell you, this woman sacrifices! lex is so strong despite her struggles. i love how mark lifted her up and supported her even when she didn’t know it. 🫠🫠
as with every story in this series, you pretty much go in blind. but what you do know, is that you’ll get a story full of so much heart, angst, swoon, and of course, a happily ever after. mark and lex’s story exceeded all of my expectations. it’s a crazy roller coaster of a ride. stacy is able to make me love certain elements of a story that i usually am not a fan of. that is how addictive her writing and her stories are. my biggest advice with this book — trust the process!! i absolutely adore the giant family that mark, sean, and shane have built!
one of my favorite parts of this book was being introduced to lex’s boys! i hope they get their own stories, especially a certain grumpy tattooed mechanic. 😮💨 i’m also always looking forward to a cole book! one can dream!!
if you haven’t read this series, please give it a try. if sports romance and found family is your jam, you’re gonna absolutely love this. each book has something for everyone to enjoy and the fun part is figuring out what that is. i will recommend this series forever!
thank you to the author for a gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.
MARK! if you didn’t immediately fall in love with mark from the jump, you need to get your head checked. fun loving, goofy, and flirty mark who hides so much pain behind a happy go lucky exterior. i absolutely loved getting to the root of who this man is. stacy gave us a hero who is so full of love and willing to do anything and make any sacrifice for those he cares about which is why lex is so perfect for him. because she is the same and let me tell you, this woman sacrifices! lex is so strong despite her struggles. i love how mark lifted her up and supported her even when she didn’t know it. 🫠🫠
as with every story in this series, you pretty much go in blind. but what you do know, is that you’ll get a story full of so much heart, angst, swoon, and of course, a happily ever after. mark and lex’s story exceeded all of my expectations. it’s a crazy roller coaster of a ride. stacy is able to make me love certain elements of a story that i usually am not a fan of. that is how addictive her writing and her stories are. my biggest advice with this book — trust the process!! i absolutely adore the giant family that mark, sean, and shane have built!
one of my favorite parts of this book was being introduced to lex’s boys! i hope they get their own stories, especially a certain grumpy tattooed mechanic. 😮💨 i’m also always looking forward to a cole book! one can dream!!
if you haven’t read this series, please give it a try. if sports romance and found family is your jam, you’re gonna absolutely love this. each book has something for everyone to enjoy and the fun part is figuring out what that is. i will recommend this series forever!
thank you to the author for a gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.
November 9, 2024
Stacy Williams masterfully weaves a heartfelt romance between a fierce female mechanic and a charming male football star, exploring the complexities of love and second chances. The story revolves around their rekindled connection after a shared past, filled with both sweet nostalgia and lingering tensions.
September 23, 2024
I will forever be a fan of these abandoned brothers 🥰 They hold such a special place in my heart! Mark has been such a mysterious character through Shane and Sean’s books so I was thoroughly looking forward to diving into his story. Mark and Lex’s journey was full of aching and longing and I really could feel their pain through the pages. Even though we know Stacy gives us a happy ending every time, I had a couple worrisome moments in this one!! (thanks Stacy for enduring my panicked DMs 😅)
Mark and Lex gave everything I’ve come to expect from this series. Troubled beginnings, rocky romance, big swoony male energy, feisty female, a little bit of drama and a whole lot of love.
Now, if I could make a request - we need more SLADE!! And Trig and Krissy and Carson…and Wind!! Like, I feel a spin off novel is just necessary now. Dare I hope?! 🤞🏼
Mark and Lex gave everything I’ve come to expect from this series. Troubled beginnings, rocky romance, big swoony male energy, feisty female, a little bit of drama and a whole lot of love.
Now, if I could make a request - we need more SLADE!! And Trig and Krissy and Carson…and Wind!! Like, I feel a spin off novel is just necessary now. Dare I hope?! 🤞🏼
October 19, 2024
Era el libro que más esperaba de "The Abandoned Brothers" y, con todo el dolor de mi corazón, debo decir que no me gustó en absoluto. Esperaba al menos que Lex y Mark me cayeran bien, pero ni eso; ambos resultaron ser desesperantes y tontos. Ella era la eterna mártir que disfrutaba ponerse en situaciones donde, al final, siempre saldría perdiendo y sufriendo, mientras que él se movía por la vida sin importar las consecuencias de sus acciones, queriendo que todo se hiciera a su manera, deseando tener el pastel y comérselo.
September 21, 2024
This story definitely takes you on a wave of emotions with this second chance romance. The struggles, the challenges, the dilemmas leave you needing to know what happens next. It’s Always Us makes you believe in soul mates. Mark and Lex were the perfect couple and I honestly loved them together. As with Stacy’s other books this is beautifully written and I simply adored it! I received a complementary copy from Booksirens.
September 2, 2024
I will accept no criticism on this book! Haha but seriously I think this is like my “heart book” if that makes sense. If I thought of all of my favorite parts of books I’ve read before and combined them all so that I could cry and laugh and smile til my cheeks hurt and smash it all into one story, then this is what my brain would come up with. If you love the bonus epilogues and extended epilogues in books, just know that this whole entire book from start to finish felt like an epilogue to me. I couldn’t read it fast enough! The rollercoaster of emotions was a ride I will happily be repeating many times. Mark and Lex are the definition of soulmates and I fell in love with all the characters in this book!
October 4, 2024
Thank you to the author for an eARC.
THE JOURNEY.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
This book made me have to stare down some things I don’t generally like when I’m reading a romance book. But the pure chaos of this journey and the up and down roller coaster had me flipping page after page never able to guess where this story would turn next. And that had it’s own wonderful quality too.
I loved how much Mark and Lex showed that soul mate level quality of connection. How when you feel like you’re hitting the end of what you can handle, love finds a way. Love creates a path. Love finds a way to fight with you.
Both characters had a lot of walls they had to hit a few times over before they found a way around. I loved the supporting cast and how they helped Mark and Lex get through their journey’s. The ending came together so sweetly and squeezed my heart strings.
This book has been a long time coming for this series and I loved all the truths it held and the satisfying conclusion it was for the all three brothers.
Overall audience notes:
- Sports Romance
- Language: moderate
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: low
THE JOURNEY.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
This book made me have to stare down some things I don’t generally like when I’m reading a romance book. But the pure chaos of this journey and the up and down roller coaster had me flipping page after page never able to guess where this story would turn next. And that had it’s own wonderful quality too.
I loved how much Mark and Lex showed that soul mate level quality of connection. How when you feel like you’re hitting the end of what you can handle, love finds a way. Love creates a path. Love finds a way to fight with you.
Both characters had a lot of walls they had to hit a few times over before they found a way around. I loved the supporting cast and how they helped Mark and Lex get through their journey’s. The ending came together so sweetly and squeezed my heart strings.
This book has been a long time coming for this series and I loved all the truths it held and the satisfying conclusion it was for the all three brothers.
Overall audience notes:
- Sports Romance
- Language: moderate
- Romance: closed door
- Violence: low
September 13, 2024
A great conclusion to this series! I loved how unique this story was and the way it had a fresh take on the second-chance romance trope. It's a bit long, but it didn't drag in the way some indie books do. All in all, a great choice if you're looking for a romance with depth and a focus on healing and character growth.
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy of this book.
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy of this book.
December 18, 2024
Thank you for the opportunity to read a free copy of your book, Stacy Williams.
I had a fantastic time reading this book! It evoked many emotions, and I loved revisiting my favorite characters from the first two books. Now I need a story about Cole! 😉 Pretty please... all the teasing of his character mentioned has me hooked! lol
I respect Lex and Mark's story, even though I sometimes wanted to say, "Come on, Lex, follow your heart!" I admire Lex's selflessness and appreciate how the book highlights NFL players' challenges beyond glamour and money.
It blended intense moments with humor—especially from Lex's grandpa, whose love for her was heartwarming. If you're looking for a book that stirs real emotions and features sports romance, you'll love this one!
I had a fantastic time reading this book! It evoked many emotions, and I loved revisiting my favorite characters from the first two books. Now I need a story about Cole! 😉 Pretty please... all the teasing of his character mentioned has me hooked! lol
I respect Lex and Mark's story, even though I sometimes wanted to say, "Come on, Lex, follow your heart!" I admire Lex's selflessness and appreciate how the book highlights NFL players' challenges beyond glamour and money.
It blended intense moments with humor—especially from Lex's grandpa, whose love for her was heartwarming. If you're looking for a book that stirs real emotions and features sports romance, you'll love this one!
January 3, 2025
From the moment we met Mark in book 1 and it was mentioned he was still heartbroken over his high school first love, I could.not.wait.for his story. First love, second chance is my absolute kryptonite. When you think of Alicia and book tropes, I hope you always think second chance.
And within minutes of It’s Always Us, I was hooked. It’s different y’all. I can’t talk about it because I would spoil it, but the way this second chance is handled is a bit of a new (to me?) spin on a favorite trope.
We are in it for the long haul here with Mark and Lex. It felt like one new obstacle after another for these two, but Mark hanging on and not wasting his second chance is.so.good.
I enjoyed this entire series, but even if I hadn’t, getting to Mark’s story would have been worth it.
And within minutes of It’s Always Us, I was hooked. It’s different y’all. I can’t talk about it because I would spoil it, but the way this second chance is handled is a bit of a new (to me?) spin on a favorite trope.
We are in it for the long haul here with Mark and Lex. It felt like one new obstacle after another for these two, but Mark hanging on and not wasting his second chance is.so.good.
I enjoyed this entire series, but even if I hadn’t, getting to Mark’s story would have been worth it.
Read
October 13, 2024Don't be like me! I read this book without reading the other two in the series first, and that was a mistake. After seeing many friends rate it 5 stars, I picked it up before the others and I struggled with it for that reason.
I'm in the minority, but I also don't love the second chance romance trope. This book was hard to get into for me but the last half picked up and made me like it better. The book has more serious subject matter that has to do with the foster care system and maybe I was also in the mood for a lighthearted read.
This will be for you if you are looking for an angsty, closed door, football romance with found family and all the feels!
I'm in the minority, but I also don't love the second chance romance trope. This book was hard to get into for me but the last half picked up and made me like it better. The book has more serious subject matter that has to do with the foster care system and maybe I was also in the mood for a lighthearted read.
This will be for you if you are looking for an angsty, closed door, football romance with found family and all the feels!
did-not-finish
January 10, 2025DNF at 9%.
So many eye rolls. I expect a certain amount out of a second chance romance if it's gonna be good. This one was incredibly frustrating in the very beginning because she's engaged to a man she doesn't love and ends up breaking up with him and realizing that she always has loved one man.
But when the one man comes back to tell her that he wants her, she pushes him away and won't have anything to do with him.
🙄🙄🙄
I do not have time for this much stupidity
So many eye rolls. I expect a certain amount out of a second chance romance if it's gonna be good. This one was incredibly frustrating in the very beginning because she's engaged to a man she doesn't love and ends up breaking up with him and realizing that she always has loved one man.
But when the one man comes back to tell her that he wants her, she pushes him away and won't have anything to do with him.
🙄🙄🙄
I do not have time for this much stupidity
January 7, 2026
4.9. 🛻📖🏈
"Perhaps your love will make me forget all I wish not to remember."
📖 Bila sam skeptična prvo jer ne volim second chane romanse, al ova je bila dobra. Nisu se vračali u prošlost, nego su se fokusirali na sadašnju vezu i budućnost.
🛻 Lex je bila anksiozna i preispitivala se dosta, al to ju je pretvorilo u realnu osobu.
🏈 Mark mi je bio malo zbunjujuć i nestvaran, al svidio mi se njegov lik iako je baš lik iz knjige.
"Perhaps your love will make me forget all I wish not to remember."
📖 Bila sam skeptična prvo jer ne volim second chane romanse, al ova je bila dobra. Nisu se vračali u prošlost, nego su se fokusirali na sadašnju vezu i budućnost.
🛻 Lex je bila anksiozna i preispitivala se dosta, al to ju je pretvorilo u realnu osobu.
🏈 Mark mi je bio malo zbunjujuć i nestvaran, al svidio mi se njegov lik iako je baš lik iz knjige.
October 23, 2024
The third in this series of sporty romances, and it was worth the wait.
The guy who never got over his ex (whose heartache we saw in books one and two) finally makes his move.
The woman who we wondered why she’s about to marry someone else and whether she missed her ex as much as he did.
Things don’t go exactly as expected, and it makes it all the more enjoyable.
The guy who never got over his ex (whose heartache we saw in books one and two) finally makes his move.
The woman who we wondered why she’s about to marry someone else and whether she missed her ex as much as he did.
Things don’t go exactly as expected, and it makes it all the more enjoyable.
October 4, 2025
4.5 out of 5 stars
October 26, 2024
The 3rd book in The Abandoned Brothers series, It’s Always Us, features high school sweethearts who ended up going their separate ways. Years later, lingering feelings prompt them to give their relationship a 2nd chance, despite misgivings on the FMC’s side.
Unexpected twists, lots of emotions, and a happy ending makes this a satisfying story and conclusion to the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Unexpected twists, lots of emotions, and a happy ending makes this a satisfying story and conclusion to the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2025
My less favorite of the 3
Kind of hate the constant attitude of Lex toward the relationship and the obstacle to be toguether
Love Marks character 🩷
Kind of hate the constant attitude of Lex toward the relationship and the obstacle to be toguether
Love Marks character 🩷
September 2, 2024
Mark & Lex
Tropes:
Soulmates
Second Chance
Found Family
Thoughts: This series is everything. Not only is this book and series in my top reads of the year it’s also on my favorites of all time list!
In book one Shane and Maggie make a life altering sacrifice for Maggie’s younger siblings.
In book two Sean and Andie learn to navigate both of their worlds while expanding their capacity to love.
And in book three we see Mark finally get his girl. This book is unlike anything else out there. It’s a rollercoaster of a ride and truly one of the sweetest love stories I’ve ever read. Their second chance journey back to each other will leave you believing in the power of a love that lasts. 🩷
P.S. The guys that work at the garage are absolute PERFECTION! And YES we get to see Shane and Sean and their families again!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
(Dual POV and Fade to Black
Tropes:
Soulmates
Second Chance
Found Family
Thoughts: This series is everything. Not only is this book and series in my top reads of the year it’s also on my favorites of all time list!
In book one Shane and Maggie make a life altering sacrifice for Maggie’s younger siblings.
In book two Sean and Andie learn to navigate both of their worlds while expanding their capacity to love.
And in book three we see Mark finally get his girl. This book is unlike anything else out there. It’s a rollercoaster of a ride and truly one of the sweetest love stories I’ve ever read. Their second chance journey back to each other will leave you believing in the power of a love that lasts. 🩷
P.S. The guys that work at the garage are absolute PERFECTION! And YES we get to see Shane and Sean and their families again!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
(Dual POV and Fade to Black
February 5, 2025
Disappointed. I feel like Lex was hyped up so much from previous books and Mark was giving really good relationship advice in the first book but here he seemed underdeveloped and not rational. Like at all.
This series was overall disappointing. Only because I LOVED the first book, the plot and character dynamics but this was lacking in the last two books. I would be interested to read new books from this author because the first book was truly amazing.
This series was overall disappointing. Only because I LOVED the first book, the plot and character dynamics but this was lacking in the last two books. I would be interested to read new books from this author because the first book was truly amazing.
August 5, 2025
3/5 ⭐️ NetGalley
This had so much potential, but I think it had waaaaay too many tropes for the one story. You had a second chance romance, with a broken family, with found family AND a pregnancy…
In parts I found this really hard to get into, but the ending was fine..
This had so much potential, but I think it had waaaaay too many tropes for the one story. You had a second chance romance, with a broken family, with found family AND a pregnancy…
In parts I found this really hard to get into, but the ending was fine..
September 23, 2024
Oh, my. I don’t even know where to start. The entire Abandoned Brothers series was so so so good, I can. not. believe this is the end (really, Stacy, are you absolutely sure?) But if it must be so, this third book, It’s Always Us (which tells Mark’s story) was a perfect cherry-on-top conclusion. Love, love, love.
I mean, we’ve watched Mark act like a drama queen for two books now, pining for someone who hadn’t spoken to him in eight years. So how incredibly rewarding to finally get the full expanded story and meet the woman who ran off with his heart. And let me tell you, she was so unexpected, so unique, and utterly perfect for him, the entire story was nothing less than “chef’s kiss”!
There was so much healing found here: Mark’s abandonment issues, his childhood abuse/trauma, then Lex’s learning difficulties and self-esteem hurdles. It was real and honest, and I loved every stinking minute. Way to tackle some tough subjects with healing and redemption, Stacy. It. was. just. beautiful.
And then there is the stunning “found family” that Stacy has created. It was excellently done and gave me, as the reader, satisfaction overload. I just wanna move to Colorado and buy a house on the abandoned brother’s street. (Perhaps I could be the big sister/auntie that keeps this big crazy extended family all in line????)
Highlightables:
- Grandpa. Enough said. This guy stole my heart from first line, and I wanna be just like him when I grow up.
- The girl group that forms around Lex; I just love that she got to experience that which she never had before.
- The guys at the garage. Hilarious but heartwarming.
- The brotherhood. Um. (Tear hits the page). It’s just…amazing from start to finish. Beauty from ashes.
Notable Quotables: (Let me warn you I highlighted soooo many passages in this book, and it was soooo hard to choose! (And there are some things I don’t want to spoil.)
- “I can’t keep lying to everyone. To myself. I can’t keep trying to convince myself that I’ll somehow be able to move on because I won’t. All this time, all these years, and I haven’t been able to. Maybe I haven’t tried hard enough, or maybe sometimes, when someone steals your heart, you just don’t ever get it back.”
- “It’s been eight years and 134 days, and there hasn’t been a single one that I haven’t thought about you.” (I mean. Hello. For the love. Come on, people. What are you waiting for? Go read this book!!!!!!!!!!)
- She said she never had a chance, but it was me. Her quiet, blue eyes saw straight into me. Once you find someone who sees you just as you are, all screwed up and flawed, mostly just a bunch of broken pieces held together by invisible duct tape, and somehow, they believe in you anyway, you don’t have a choice but to love them fully and completely right back.
Wow. So many beautiful truths in this book. Real challenges. Honest breakthroughs. Hard-earned healing. Found family. Undying love. And the exploration of what’s possible when just one person stands by you.
If you love real, honest, (and sometimes gritty) stories that feel more like a roller coaster ride than a gentle cruise down Main Street, then this book is for you! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll scream at ink on paper, but you will love every. single. second of the journey.
I highly recommend the entire Abandoned Brothers series, and I highly recommend book 3: It’s Always Us. Please do yourself a favor and start this amazing journey today, beginning with I Got You!
I mean, we’ve watched Mark act like a drama queen for two books now, pining for someone who hadn’t spoken to him in eight years. So how incredibly rewarding to finally get the full expanded story and meet the woman who ran off with his heart. And let me tell you, she was so unexpected, so unique, and utterly perfect for him, the entire story was nothing less than “chef’s kiss”!
There was so much healing found here: Mark’s abandonment issues, his childhood abuse/trauma, then Lex’s learning difficulties and self-esteem hurdles. It was real and honest, and I loved every stinking minute. Way to tackle some tough subjects with healing and redemption, Stacy. It. was. just. beautiful.
And then there is the stunning “found family” that Stacy has created. It was excellently done and gave me, as the reader, satisfaction overload. I just wanna move to Colorado and buy a house on the abandoned brother’s street. (Perhaps I could be the big sister/auntie that keeps this big crazy extended family all in line????)
Highlightables:
- Grandpa. Enough said. This guy stole my heart from first line, and I wanna be just like him when I grow up.
- The girl group that forms around Lex; I just love that she got to experience that which she never had before.
- The guys at the garage. Hilarious but heartwarming.
- The brotherhood. Um. (Tear hits the page). It’s just…amazing from start to finish. Beauty from ashes.
Notable Quotables: (Let me warn you I highlighted soooo many passages in this book, and it was soooo hard to choose! (And there are some things I don’t want to spoil.)
- “I can’t keep lying to everyone. To myself. I can’t keep trying to convince myself that I’ll somehow be able to move on because I won’t. All this time, all these years, and I haven’t been able to. Maybe I haven’t tried hard enough, or maybe sometimes, when someone steals your heart, you just don’t ever get it back.”
- “It’s been eight years and 134 days, and there hasn’t been a single one that I haven’t thought about you.” (I mean. Hello. For the love. Come on, people. What are you waiting for? Go read this book!!!!!!!!!!)
- She said she never had a chance, but it was me. Her quiet, blue eyes saw straight into me. Once you find someone who sees you just as you are, all screwed up and flawed, mostly just a bunch of broken pieces held together by invisible duct tape, and somehow, they believe in you anyway, you don’t have a choice but to love them fully and completely right back.
Wow. So many beautiful truths in this book. Real challenges. Honest breakthroughs. Hard-earned healing. Found family. Undying love. And the exploration of what’s possible when just one person stands by you.
If you love real, honest, (and sometimes gritty) stories that feel more like a roller coaster ride than a gentle cruise down Main Street, then this book is for you! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll scream at ink on paper, but you will love every. single. second of the journey.
I highly recommend the entire Abandoned Brothers series, and I highly recommend book 3: It’s Always Us. Please do yourself a favor and start this amazing journey today, beginning with I Got You!
October 30, 2024
❤️ ARC Review: It’s Always Us
You guys. YOU GUYS. Okay, I legit don’t even know where to start. I could talk about this book and this series until I’m blue in the face. The Abandoned Brothers series has a forever home in my heart. When the author opened her ARCs for Mark’s story I about lost it in my excitement!
Mark is….my gosh, Mark is the ultimate MMC. He fights for things that he loves, even when it scares the crap out of him. He loves with absolutely every fiber of his being and that love is wholly focused on Lex. Their second chance romance is probably my favorite.
Lex was a character that I instantly felt drawn to. I wanted to hug her and cheer her on so much through this whole book. She fights so hard for the things that she wants, but she also struggles with doubts and fears. This resonated a lot with me for many different reasons, and I felt so seen reading her story play out. Her knowledge of cars and the way she could fix absolutely anything was so cool—definitely wish I could learn how to do that. (I should t probably get better at changing a tire first.)
I can’t post the review without telling you all that there is past trauma for Mark. All of the brothers have to go through so much, Mark experiencing some of the hardest things a child can ever experience. I love what the author has done with this series. She’s shining a light on a reality that sadly affects so many children and teens in our country. I hope that there are teens and adults who find this series and realize that there is HOPE. It won’t always be dark, there is LIGHT at the end of that tunnel and you are NOT alone. XOXO.
I would say that this is on the level 3 scale of intimacy, and a fade to black second chance
TW: Past abuse/trauma of a child, mentions of neglect, mentions of drug/alcohol use, language
**I was gifted a copy of this ebook. All opinions are my own.
You guys. YOU GUYS. Okay, I legit don’t even know where to start. I could talk about this book and this series until I’m blue in the face. The Abandoned Brothers series has a forever home in my heart. When the author opened her ARCs for Mark’s story I about lost it in my excitement!
Mark is….my gosh, Mark is the ultimate MMC. He fights for things that he loves, even when it scares the crap out of him. He loves with absolutely every fiber of his being and that love is wholly focused on Lex. Their second chance romance is probably my favorite.
Lex was a character that I instantly felt drawn to. I wanted to hug her and cheer her on so much through this whole book. She fights so hard for the things that she wants, but she also struggles with doubts and fears. This resonated a lot with me for many different reasons, and I felt so seen reading her story play out. Her knowledge of cars and the way she could fix absolutely anything was so cool—definitely wish I could learn how to do that. (I should t probably get better at changing a tire first.)
I can’t post the review without telling you all that there is past trauma for Mark. All of the brothers have to go through so much, Mark experiencing some of the hardest things a child can ever experience. I love what the author has done with this series. She’s shining a light on a reality that sadly affects so many children and teens in our country. I hope that there are teens and adults who find this series and realize that there is HOPE. It won’t always be dark, there is LIGHT at the end of that tunnel and you are NOT alone. XOXO.
I would say that this is on the level 3 scale of intimacy, and a fade to black second chance
TW: Past abuse/trauma of a child, mentions of neglect, mentions of drug/alcohol use, language
**I was gifted a copy of this ebook. All opinions are my own.
October 9, 2024
Stacy Williams does it again!
I have been so excited to read Mark’s story. I needed to know more about this charismatic flirt and the girl who ruined all over women for him. There was no denying the connection and love between Mark and Lex. These two would, and did, move mountains for one another. Mark is such a sweetheart and while he could be a bit impulsive, his motivations were always pure and sweet and he was determined to give Lex the world. And Lex-the way she sacrificed for Mark was incredible. And I loved watching her realize that she was strong and incredible and had so much to offer. Lex had a lot of insecurities and hang ups regarding her learning disability and I really enjoyed watching her work through those and seeing that light bulb moment when she realized she had gifts and she had value.
I loved all the cameos from Shane, Sean, Maggie, Andie and the kids. Loved my sweet little Liv-ever the includer and “lover of lost things”. These abandoned brothers and this found family they’ve brought together is so beautiful and supportive and I love it so much.
This is such a beautiful story of the strength and power of love and sacrifice in that love. Mark and Lex’s story is beautiful and redemptive and shows that even the hard uncertain things in love can lead to the most beautiful of circumstances.
“The truth is that she loved me enough to carry the burden so I wouldn’t have to.”
Thank you so much to Stacy Williams for the ARC! This series is everything and if you haven’t read it yet what are you waiting for?
This is a fade to black romance with moderate language and innuendo.
Content Warnings: foster care, child abuse (in past)
November 11, 2024
Stars: 4.25
There’s something about a second chance romance that I adore. Throw in some football and we definitely have a winner! I will say though, that when @stacywilliams.writes says to buckle up for the ride, she means it. I thought I knew where this was going. I didn’t. Pretty sure there’s at least 3 things I did not see coming in this book. Possibly more. So when YOU read it and think you know where it’s going, maybe just hang on and see what happens…
As always, I love the football. If football isn’t your jam, that’s ok too. There’s plenty of other fun stuff to go around.
Lex is mechanic and disappeared out of Mark’s life 8 years ago, around the time he started playing college ball. Mark sort of keeps tabs on her and when he finds out she’s getting married, he decides it’s 4th down and inches and, with 3 seconds left on the clock (aka the night before her wedding), he can’t help but go for it.
If you’ve read the previous 2 books in the series, this whole situation starts out a little more impactful. (Yes, this could be read out of order, but I promise it’ll mean more if you start with I Got You and go from there.) When Mark’s emotions start flying around, you’ll be prepared.
I would love to say more, but it’s practically impossible without giving things away. When you read it, sneak right into my messages and let me know when you start questioning things. I want to relive it with you!
Content: kissing, strong language, fade to black w/married couple
Thanks to the author for an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
There’s something about a second chance romance that I adore. Throw in some football and we definitely have a winner! I will say though, that when @stacywilliams.writes says to buckle up for the ride, she means it. I thought I knew where this was going. I didn’t. Pretty sure there’s at least 3 things I did not see coming in this book. Possibly more. So when YOU read it and think you know where it’s going, maybe just hang on and see what happens…
As always, I love the football. If football isn’t your jam, that’s ok too. There’s plenty of other fun stuff to go around.
Lex is mechanic and disappeared out of Mark’s life 8 years ago, around the time he started playing college ball. Mark sort of keeps tabs on her and when he finds out she’s getting married, he decides it’s 4th down and inches and, with 3 seconds left on the clock (aka the night before her wedding), he can’t help but go for it.
If you’ve read the previous 2 books in the series, this whole situation starts out a little more impactful. (Yes, this could be read out of order, but I promise it’ll mean more if you start with I Got You and go from there.) When Mark’s emotions start flying around, you’ll be prepared.
I would love to say more, but it’s practically impossible without giving things away. When you read it, sneak right into my messages and let me know when you start questioning things. I want to relive it with you!
Content: kissing, strong language, fade to black w/married couple
Thanks to the author for an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
September 30, 2024
I don’t even know how to begin this review. I picked up It’s Always Us without any prior experience with Stacy Williams’ work, knowing only that it was a second-chance romance. It’s my first time reading anything by this author, and I walked in blind, hoping for a heartwarming love story. What I got was a whirlwind of emotions.
The novel centers around Mark and Lex, former high school sweethearts who, eight years after their split, still find themselves thinking about each other. When Mark decides to take a shot at rekindling their relationship, the two are given a second chance at love. The story follows their journey of rediscovering each other, working through the baggage from their past, and dealing with lingering traumas.
This book was an emotional rollercoaster. Honestly, there was a point early on when I almost considered not finishing it. A plot twist revealed one of my least favorite tropes, which nearly made me stop reading. But I stuck with it, and I’m glad I did. I gasped out loud multiple times as the story took turns I didn’t see coming and by the end, I was satisfied with how Mark and Lex’s journey played out.
Though I had my doubts at first, I ended up enjoying the resolution, and I was happy with where the characters ended up. I’m giving this book a solid 3.5 stars—it’s an entertaining read, even with its unexpected twists.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The novel centers around Mark and Lex, former high school sweethearts who, eight years after their split, still find themselves thinking about each other. When Mark decides to take a shot at rekindling their relationship, the two are given a second chance at love. The story follows their journey of rediscovering each other, working through the baggage from their past, and dealing with lingering traumas.
This book was an emotional rollercoaster. Honestly, there was a point early on when I almost considered not finishing it. A plot twist revealed one of my least favorite tropes, which nearly made me stop reading. But I stuck with it, and I’m glad I did. I gasped out loud multiple times as the story took turns I didn’t see coming and by the end, I was satisfied with how Mark and Lex’s journey played out.
Though I had my doubts at first, I ended up enjoying the resolution, and I was happy with where the characters ended up. I’m giving this book a solid 3.5 stars—it’s an entertaining read, even with its unexpected twists.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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November 24, 2024The Abandoned Brothers series follows three guys that grew up in the foster care system- somehow found each other in the process and became family. This series follows each of their stories, their football careers and their chances at love for a lifetime!
I adore all the found family aspects these books bring. Great representation of foster care struggles- all the emotions and heart-breaking back stories. Love for all of these guys is a beautiful thing.
It's Always Us-All I can say is I adore Mark. He is my favorite guy in the entire series. And I love that Lex is a mechanic! 🙌. A lot of secrets and surprises in this story, so I will let you read it and find out what happens.
Brief thoughts: I enjoyed the overall arcs of this story but the inner monologue and dialogue between these two characters were very repetitive. Lots of back and forth with feelings and deciding how the relationship will go. I also wasn't a fan of the plot twist near the beginning and a certain trope in this book isn't my favorite (could be a me problem).
Overall solid football romance series. Highly recommend reading in order. It's better to get to know the guys this way. Check out this series if you like slow burn and sports romance!
Thank you to the author for my ARCs for this series!
P.S. I need a spin off series with all of Lex's mechanic co-workers STAT
Book #1. 4 stars
Book #2. 4 stars
Book #3. 3-3.5 stars
I adore all the found family aspects these books bring. Great representation of foster care struggles- all the emotions and heart-breaking back stories. Love for all of these guys is a beautiful thing.
It's Always Us-All I can say is I adore Mark. He is my favorite guy in the entire series. And I love that Lex is a mechanic! 🙌. A lot of secrets and surprises in this story, so I will let you read it and find out what happens.
Brief thoughts: I enjoyed the overall arcs of this story but the inner monologue and dialogue between these two characters were very repetitive. Lots of back and forth with feelings and deciding how the relationship will go. I also wasn't a fan of the plot twist near the beginning and a certain trope in this book isn't my favorite (could be a me problem).
Overall solid football romance series. Highly recommend reading in order. It's better to get to know the guys this way. Check out this series if you like slow burn and sports romance!
Thank you to the author for my ARCs for this series!
P.S. I need a spin off series with all of Lex's mechanic co-workers STAT
Book #1. 4 stars
Book #2. 4 stars
Book #3. 3-3.5 stars
September 8, 2024
After reading Sean and Shane's story, I was looking forward to reading Mark's story. These men have lived tough lives, and their childhoods were heart breaking. Give them a football at a young age, and their paths take a turn for the better. As athletes they dominate/dominated and along the way they each found the women who taught them to trust love and that not everyone that truly loves you leaves. Mark and Lex were in love at the age of sixteen, however, things changed, and they parted. Lex did not want to hold Mark back from fulfilling his NFL dream, so she chose to let him go. Unbeknownst to Lex, she was the one that got away, but never left Mark's heart. Eight years later, Mark decides to show up and let Lex know that he is not going to let her go. Both Mark and Lex had to fight the demons in their closets in order to find the happily ever after they both deserve.
This book, like the other two is full of turmoil, hard decisions, confusion, twists and turns, frustration, funny moments, love between siblings in heart, and the sought out happy ending. Shane, Sean, and Mark won my heart, and their wives Maggie, Andie, and Lex had me cheering for them all the way. Love the family and sibling banter.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book, like the other two is full of turmoil, hard decisions, confusion, twists and turns, frustration, funny moments, love between siblings in heart, and the sought out happy ending. Shane, Sean, and Mark won my heart, and their wives Maggie, Andie, and Lex had me cheering for them all the way. Love the family and sibling banter.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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