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Guardian Hall #1
Always You
In the frostbitten heart of Chicago, a scarred and solitary soldier finds a second chance at love with the man who broke his heart.
Twenty years at war have left Sergeant Jasper "Jazz" Brookes battered, scarred, and haunted. His marriage is wrecked, his daughter barely speaks to him, and the world he fought for has moved on without him. Homeless by choice, Jazz manages until the brutal Chicago winter forces him to seek help from a shelter he doesn’t want to need.
The weathered building in Humboldt Park offers veterans a place to rebuild, but Jazz doesn’t expect to find Alex Richardson there—his first love, the boy who chose money over him, the one he left behind. Seeing Alex again cracks open old wounds and stirs feelings Jazz buried long ago.
For Alex, the sight of Jazz reminds him of everything he’s tried to forget. But neither man has moved on. As they grapple with their past and confront the scars they’ve carried for years, they’re forced to decide if the connection between them is strong enough to survive the pain.
This time, it’s all or nothing.
Twenty years at war have left Sergeant Jasper "Jazz" Brookes battered, scarred, and haunted. His marriage is wrecked, his daughter barely speaks to him, and the world he fought for has moved on without him. Homeless by choice, Jazz manages until the brutal Chicago winter forces him to seek help from a shelter he doesn’t want to need.
The weathered building in Humboldt Park offers veterans a place to rebuild, but Jazz doesn’t expect to find Alex Richardson there—his first love, the boy who chose money over him, the one he left behind. Seeing Alex again cracks open old wounds and stirs feelings Jazz buried long ago.
For Alex, the sight of Jazz reminds him of everything he’s tried to forget. But neither man has moved on. As they grapple with their past and confront the scars they’ve carried for years, they’re forced to decide if the connection between them is strong enough to survive the pain.
This time, it’s all or nothing.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2025
156 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,718 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
January 30, 2025
It took me some time to figure out what to say about this book. It's the first in a new series called Guardian Hall, and it deals with an ex-soldier having come back from the atrocities of war, and his former best friend and lover, who now runs a home where soldiers in dire straits can find help on their way back into society.
On the surface, it's a second-chance love story, but as part of Alex and Jazz rekindling what they once had, when they were young and innocent to the brutality of the world, we get to see Jazz at rock bottom, trying to find back to the version of himself, and clawing out of the hole of despair and feeling unworthy of anything good.
We get to watch Jazz have panic attacks, struggling with who he has become and what being a soldier has done to his marriage and his relationship with his daughter. I didn't quite follow his belief that his daughter hated him, when she was the one who gave him the information about Guardian Hall to help him find his way again. When we meet Jazz, he's homeless and living on the streets, close to freezing to death in the Chicago winter. While he's initially hesitant to take the room he's being offered at Guardian Hall, the new chance at turning his life around, he pushes forward, even though his brings him face to face with Alex, who broke his heart when they were but 18.
Alex too has suffered in his past, though we don't get too much information on it, and we don't get to see him when he hit his personal rock bottom - we're only told about it. By the time he reconnects with Jazz, Alex has carved a decent life for himself and built Guardian Hall, partially because of his guilt about what he felt he had to do to Jazz when he was 18.
We see them slowly reconnect, share their individual pasts and their shared pain, and rekindle the love they once shared. We leave them in a good place, a HFN that I can see turn into a HEA eventually.
I did feel that the ending was a bit abrupt, and that there was certainly not enough time spent on healing their trauma, separately and together. Perhaps the author felt it would have distracted from the romance, but I would have liked to see the trauma addressed more in-depth.
Overall, at 4 stars, this was a solid romance, and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
** I received an ARC from its author, in exchange for an honest review. **
On the surface, it's a second-chance love story, but as part of Alex and Jazz rekindling what they once had, when they were young and innocent to the brutality of the world, we get to see Jazz at rock bottom, trying to find back to the version of himself, and clawing out of the hole of despair and feeling unworthy of anything good.
We get to watch Jazz have panic attacks, struggling with who he has become and what being a soldier has done to his marriage and his relationship with his daughter. I didn't quite follow his belief that his daughter hated him, when she was the one who gave him the information about Guardian Hall to help him find his way again. When we meet Jazz, he's homeless and living on the streets, close to freezing to death in the Chicago winter. While he's initially hesitant to take the room he's being offered at Guardian Hall, the new chance at turning his life around, he pushes forward, even though his brings him face to face with Alex, who broke his heart when they were but 18.
Alex too has suffered in his past, though we don't get too much information on it, and we don't get to see him when he hit his personal rock bottom - we're only told about it. By the time he reconnects with Jazz, Alex has carved a decent life for himself and built Guardian Hall, partially because of his guilt about what he felt he had to do to Jazz when he was 18.
We see them slowly reconnect, share their individual pasts and their shared pain, and rekindle the love they once shared. We leave them in a good place, a HFN that I can see turn into a HEA eventually.
I did feel that the ending was a bit abrupt, and that there was certainly not enough time spent on healing their trauma, separately and together. Perhaps the author felt it would have distracted from the romance, but I would have liked to see the trauma addressed more in-depth.
Overall, at 4 stars, this was a solid romance, and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
** I received an ARC from its author, in exchange for an honest review. **
January 19, 2025
This book had my heart twisted in the best way. It is a mix of hope and pain and what ifs, of finding what exactly rock bottom looks like and clawing your way outside, and learning to believe you're worthy of good things, like help and love. I loved seeing Jazz find himself and learn to heal and have a life as he deserves (in spite of believing he doesn't), and Alex learn to forgive himself. And finding their love in the process.
I wish we'd seen more of Alex's rock bottom, we know of what Jazz went through because we see him struggling to get through it and because many veterans face similar kinds of demons, but Alex's gets kind of glossed over. What we got was enough to get his side of the story and understand his actions and it doesn't make the book lack anything, but I can't help but be curious. Especially about the legal conflict with his family that drained his money away and why he ended up using drugs. I hope we do see more of Marcus's past, and maybe even some of Alex's through him.
I wish we'd seen more of Alex's rock bottom, we know of what Jazz went through because we see him struggling to get through it and because many veterans face similar kinds of demons, but Alex's gets kind of glossed over. What we got was enough to get his side of the story and understand his actions and it doesn't make the book lack anything, but I can't help but be curious. Especially about the legal conflict with his family that drained his money away and why he ended up using drugs. I hope we do see more of Marcus's past, and maybe even some of Alex's through him.
January 23, 2025
**4.5**
A fabulous new series from RJ Scott. I absolutely love ex-military romance that gives those who have served their deserved chance at happiness.
This one sees Jazz take that nerve-wracking but life saving step across the road to Guardian Hall and the shelter they can offer from the harsh Chicago weather. Unbeknownst to him, his childhood sweetheart is the owner and psychologist, so seeing Alex open the door comes as quite the shock to them both. Alex may have been the one to break up with Jazz when they were younger but life has thrown many curve balls his way to get to where he is today and he would love the chance to explain to Jazz but the first priority is Jazz's health and wellbeing.
Guardian Hall is a fantastic initiative, set up to provide shelter, food, therapy, medical care and more to veterans on the streets of Chicago. As soon as Jazz steps inside he knows it could be the change he needs but pride, panic and anxiety swell within him. It's heartbreaking to read in places, to know what these men and women experience but are left to fend for themselves once out of the service.
This is a wonderfully written story that gives hope and peace to Jazz, the first veteran of this series, along with a second chance with his first love. I really enjoyed the reunion and rebuilding of a relationship with his daughter, along with the time he got to spend with animals at the shelter who make for amazing therapy partners. What I thought was written well were the tough moments, especially when Jazz first comes to Guardian Hall and is given his own room, things he has to do to ensure his own safety as well as keeping his things safe from anyone who may want to steal them.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I'm a big fan of RJ's and can't wait to see what comes next for Guardian Hall.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
A fabulous new series from RJ Scott. I absolutely love ex-military romance that gives those who have served their deserved chance at happiness.
This one sees Jazz take that nerve-wracking but life saving step across the road to Guardian Hall and the shelter they can offer from the harsh Chicago weather. Unbeknownst to him, his childhood sweetheart is the owner and psychologist, so seeing Alex open the door comes as quite the shock to them both. Alex may have been the one to break up with Jazz when they were younger but life has thrown many curve balls his way to get to where he is today and he would love the chance to explain to Jazz but the first priority is Jazz's health and wellbeing.
Guardian Hall is a fantastic initiative, set up to provide shelter, food, therapy, medical care and more to veterans on the streets of Chicago. As soon as Jazz steps inside he knows it could be the change he needs but pride, panic and anxiety swell within him. It's heartbreaking to read in places, to know what these men and women experience but are left to fend for themselves once out of the service.
This is a wonderfully written story that gives hope and peace to Jazz, the first veteran of this series, along with a second chance with his first love. I really enjoyed the reunion and rebuilding of a relationship with his daughter, along with the time he got to spend with animals at the shelter who make for amazing therapy partners. What I thought was written well were the tough moments, especially when Jazz first comes to Guardian Hall and is given his own room, things he has to do to ensure his own safety as well as keeping his things safe from anyone who may want to steal them.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I'm a big fan of RJ's and can't wait to see what comes next for Guardian Hall.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 3, 2025
One of the rare 5 stars for me.
This is a beautiful story. Another winner. from RJ.
This is a beautiful story. Another winner. from RJ.
January 23, 2025
Unhoused by choice, retired Sergeant Jasper “Jazz” Brookes finds himself at a shelter managed by his first love, Alex Richardson. This is how this second-chance romance begins and I’m all in immediately.
Scott’s author-voice is particularly melodic with this one, allowing you to feel the observed/remembered sights. Examples include, “ the neighborhood stretched out in a patchwork of neglect and survival” and “The desert was silent and had vast open spaces until it was torn apart by explosions and drenched in screams.”
Alex and Jazz’s second-chance romance is delightfully drawn out as they rediscover each other and learn to love the men they are today. Alex called Jazz “the other half of me…deep in my soul” and that resonated with the characters’ stories. Scott did a divine job of carefully piecing together their past connection into their current love.
Meanwhile, the reality of many veteran’s experiences with PTSD is not glossed over. Scott doesn’t shy away from the tragic side of serving ones’ country yet shows compassion and understanding. I can’t wait for book 2 in the series! 5 stars.
Scott’s author-voice is particularly melodic with this one, allowing you to feel the observed/remembered sights. Examples include, “ the neighborhood stretched out in a patchwork of neglect and survival” and “The desert was silent and had vast open spaces until it was torn apart by explosions and drenched in screams.”
Alex and Jazz’s second-chance romance is delightfully drawn out as they rediscover each other and learn to love the men they are today. Alex called Jazz “the other half of me…deep in my soul” and that resonated with the characters’ stories. Scott did a divine job of carefully piecing together their past connection into their current love.
Meanwhile, the reality of many veteran’s experiences with PTSD is not glossed over. Scott doesn’t shy away from the tragic side of serving ones’ country yet shows compassion and understanding. I can’t wait for book 2 in the series! 5 stars.
January 29, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Always You is the first book in R.J. Scott’s new Guardian Hall series. This is a warm, tender, lovers-reunited story about two men who thought they lost their chance together, but somehow find a way back to one another. Both Alex and Jazz have had a rough time in the 20 years since they last saw one another. Alex’s story is revealed over the course of the book, so I won’t go into details here, but he experienced addiction and estrangement from his family. Alex accepts the mistakes he made, and he has always regretted ending things with Jazz, but it is clear that he has experienced a lot and grown from it. For his part, Jazz’s life is in much more upheaval.
I found this one to be a sweet, warm, and really lovely story. Scott really brings us in the Jazz’s head nicely and I loved seeing him finding that spark of joy again as he realizes there is a chance for a new life. I enjoyed this one a lot and am looking forward to continuing on with the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Always You is the first book in R.J. Scott’s new Guardian Hall series. This is a warm, tender, lovers-reunited story about two men who thought they lost their chance together, but somehow find a way back to one another. Both Alex and Jazz have had a rough time in the 20 years since they last saw one another. Alex’s story is revealed over the course of the book, so I won’t go into details here, but he experienced addiction and estrangement from his family. Alex accepts the mistakes he made, and he has always regretted ending things with Jazz, but it is clear that he has experienced a lot and grown from it. For his part, Jazz’s life is in much more upheaval.
I found this one to be a sweet, warm, and really lovely story. Scott really brings us in the Jazz’s head nicely and I loved seeing him finding that spark of joy again as he realizes there is a chance for a new life. I enjoyed this one a lot and am looking forward to continuing on with the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
August 22, 2025
3.5 stars
A nice hurt/comfort story - warning for the first part which is quite heavy on a soldier's PTSD. It's heartbreaking to read, especially because I know this can happen in real life. I'm not sure how the support system for soldiers in my own country, and I'm not sure it even exists. So yes, heartbreaking.
The last 1/3rd of the book is a bit too fast though, after Jazz and Alex decides to rekindle their relationship. I know that they DO take time - it's not like Alex immediately is "the-answer-of-everything". There's quite a journey of recovery that Jazz takes on his own. Still, it feels bit too fast near the end, like the author wants to make sure to deliver the HEA. I don't mind for an HFN for a story with this kind of heaviness, to be honest.
A nice hurt/comfort story - warning for the first part which is quite heavy on a soldier's PTSD. It's heartbreaking to read, especially because I know this can happen in real life. I'm not sure how the support system for soldiers in my own country, and I'm not sure it even exists. So yes, heartbreaking.
The last 1/3rd of the book is a bit too fast though, after Jazz and Alex decides to rekindle their relationship. I know that they DO take time - it's not like Alex immediately is "the-answer-of-everything". There's quite a journey of recovery that Jazz takes on his own. Still, it feels bit too fast near the end, like the author wants to make sure to deliver the HEA. I don't mind for an HFN for a story with this kind of heaviness, to be honest.
January 13, 2025
OMG! This took me back to Ellery Mountain and “The Gardner & The Marine,” one of my all-time favorite RJ Scott books. Wow! Definitely in my top favorites. I’m not really a fan of big angst, but there is something about a military recovery story that gets me every time. I couldn’t put it down! I can’t wait to read about Marcus and Tyler.
January 18, 2025
This was another fantastic, angst ridden, fluffy animal inserted into their lives, caring for and helping those in need of redemption and love story by Ms. Scott!
I was all over the place with emotions reading this.
My heart was ripped out for the pain and trauma Jazz had to deal with. Jazz is a man who fights not only his past but trying to regain his life and future.
Alex broke my heart as well for all he'd fought through.
He uses his inheritance to help those in great need and deserving.
These two men fight hard to get back what was lost in so many ways.
Such a well written story, as Ms. Scott is so well known for.
5/5 Rascals.
I was all over the place with emotions reading this.
My heart was ripped out for the pain and trauma Jazz had to deal with. Jazz is a man who fights not only his past but trying to regain his life and future.
Alex broke my heart as well for all he'd fought through.
He uses his inheritance to help those in great need and deserving.
These two men fight hard to get back what was lost in so many ways.
Such a well written story, as Ms. Scott is so well known for.
5/5 Rascals.
October 8, 2025
Incredibly emotional and angsty, this story will rip your heart out, and then gradually piece it back together again...typical RJ Scott then 😭 Such a well written story though, with mature MCs, one of whom has been to hell and back. The character development of both men, but especially Jazz, is first class. His background story is heartbreaking, and a lot of the story has a hurt/comfort theme. Alex works hard to re establish the bond he had with Jazz, when they were young men, but doesn't rush him. It's a slow burning romance, for obvious reasons, with a lovely upbeat ending.
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January 29, 2025 Once again, RJ Scott gives us an emotionally charged and heartwrenching read that takes us on both a healing journey and a winding road to a HEA. I've read other books that deal with PTSD and stress, but the grittiness of Jazz's situation and the steps he takes to rebuild his life are paramount to the story, even before he can engage with Alex for any chance at a HEA.
This book is very slow burn and makes the characters work for each piece of happiness and success. I appreciate that time was taken for milestones that are vital to the story and it kept me fully engaged.
As with any book that starts a new series, we also get teased about whose stories will be featured in the future, so we meet several other characters and I'm totally down for what is next to come!
This book is very slow burn and makes the characters work for each piece of happiness and success. I appreciate that time was taken for milestones that are vital to the story and it kept me fully engaged.
As with any book that starts a new series, we also get teased about whose stories will be featured in the future, so we meet several other characters and I'm totally down for what is next to come!
January 31, 2025
Alex and Jazz’s story is a terrific beginning to a new series from one of my favourite authors. Best friends as teenagers they haven’t seen each other for many years and both have led very different lives, yet neither has forgotten the other. Jazz is a returning soldier, and his emotional journey of struggle and readjustment after serving is at times hard to read. Alex runs Guardian Hall, established to help people like Jazz, and he becomes more than his savour, when Jazz turns to them for help, but also reignites their friendship.
Their slow-burn story was emotional, at times hard to read, and yet endearing, and sharing in Jazz’s journey to find himself, and happiness again, was fabulous. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next one in the series. Highly recommended.
Their slow-burn story was emotional, at times hard to read, and yet endearing, and sharing in Jazz’s journey to find himself, and happiness again, was fabulous. I loved this book and can’t wait for the next one in the series. Highly recommended.
February 4, 2025
4.5 Stars
Well this book was heartbreaking, I’m sure I cried throughout the whole book, my heart broke for Jazz so many times, I’m so proud he finally asked for help and stuck with it knowing the guy who broke his heart as a teenager owned the place he decided to stay and get help with. Alex, the best friend then lover of of Jazz as a teenager and broke Jazz’s heart over money and his spiteful family had a hard time too as Jazz went to the Army and he chose college which didn’t stick for long and became an Addict , so sad. But then he met Marcus his new best friend then business partner of Guardian Hall , a place for soldiers to get help, shelter and be safe. So heartwarming and awe inspiring. Alex tries to reconnect with Jazz but he’s not ready but eventually they talk, get closer and try to date again, it’s working and they’re both happy now, so good! I’m so looking forward to next book!
Well this book was heartbreaking, I’m sure I cried throughout the whole book, my heart broke for Jazz so many times, I’m so proud he finally asked for help and stuck with it knowing the guy who broke his heart as a teenager owned the place he decided to stay and get help with. Alex, the best friend then lover of of Jazz as a teenager and broke Jazz’s heart over money and his spiteful family had a hard time too as Jazz went to the Army and he chose college which didn’t stick for long and became an Addict , so sad. But then he met Marcus his new best friend then business partner of Guardian Hall , a place for soldiers to get help, shelter and be safe. So heartwarming and awe inspiring. Alex tries to reconnect with Jazz but he’s not ready but eventually they talk, get closer and try to date again, it’s working and they’re both happy now, so good! I’m so looking forward to next book!
February 2, 2025
Jazz & Alex
Jazz a veteran with PTSD goes to Guardian Hall to get help. Alex runs Guardian Hall. Jazz and Alex knew each other well when younger. Now Alex with the help of the staff at Guardian Hall help Jazz find himself again. Jazz and Alex realise that they still love each other.
It’s a sweet story.
Jazz a veteran with PTSD goes to Guardian Hall to get help. Alex runs Guardian Hall. Jazz and Alex knew each other well when younger. Now Alex with the help of the staff at Guardian Hall help Jazz find himself again. Jazz and Alex realise that they still love each other.
It’s a sweet story.
January 30, 2025
This will be one of my top favorite books!! Alex and Jazz have that connection you feel through the authors words! An emotional story of the past and learning to live in the present with friendship and love. Jazz is a soldier and has seen more than his fair share of pain, emotional and physical. Alex has a past dealing with family and addiction. My heart hurt for both of them!
They heal each other with their connection, friendship and love. A second chance of family, forgiveness and hope! This is a must read for anyone, it is so well written, I felt like I was right there with them, cheering them on, tears of sadness and joy! I do not want to give any spoilers away, I would highly encourage you to read this book!!! I cannot wait for book 2 in this series!
They heal each other with their connection, friendship and love. A second chance of family, forgiveness and hope! This is a must read for anyone, it is so well written, I felt like I was right there with them, cheering them on, tears of sadness and joy! I do not want to give any spoilers away, I would highly encourage you to read this book!!! I cannot wait for book 2 in this series!
February 5, 2025
Wow, just wow!
RJ's books have always been my favorite books to read and reread. This one was amazing. The depth and understanding of the needs of vets is real and well portrayed with this book. Just another amazing book to put back and read again in the future.
RJ's books have always been my favorite books to read and reread. This one was amazing. The depth and understanding of the needs of vets is real and well portrayed with this book. Just another amazing book to put back and read again in the future.
February 19, 2025
A new book AND a new series from RJ Scott? Yes, please. Always You, the first entry in the author's new series, Guardian Hall is amazing. I won't say it has a dark element but it definitely has heartwrenching and heartbreaking elements on multiple points. I won't list the points so as not spoil anything but just know this story, these characters will definitely squeeze you through the emotional wringer.
Alex Richardson made a bad choice long ago thinking he'd have a chance to explain it or perhaps manage it the way he planned, needless to say things did not go as the young man planned. Jazz Brookes was left aching after Alex's choice but tried to make the best life possible, unfortunately things also did not go as he planned. Both men had hit their own rock bottom, we learn and see more of Jazz's collapsed state but we learn some of Alex's as well through conversation and internal monologue. Now some might like to have seen more of Alex's but personally I like a little off-page storytelling because there comes a point where it's just too much. Subtlety and readers imagination can be extremely powerful.
When dealing with PTSD in fiction I find there is too often two ways an author goes: short & brief to minimize the angst or highly detailed heavy on medical wordage so you feel like you're studying a medical school book. I'm all for reality in fiction when it comes to health but sometimes less can truly be more but not at all can disconnect a reader from the characters, so balance is key. RJ Scott has found that balance in Always You. As I said above, both characters are dealing with hurt and healing but Jazz is the primary focus on the healing front IMO and we see the hurt, the comfort, and the fallout/side effects but they don't overpower the story and the romance.
To put it bluntly and paraphrase Goldilocks: RJ Scott got it "just right" with Always You. You'll smile, you'll cry, you'll laugh, basically you'll be "ooohing" and "awwwing" all over the place.
Alex Richardson made a bad choice long ago thinking he'd have a chance to explain it or perhaps manage it the way he planned, needless to say things did not go as the young man planned. Jazz Brookes was left aching after Alex's choice but tried to make the best life possible, unfortunately things also did not go as he planned. Both men had hit their own rock bottom, we learn and see more of Jazz's collapsed state but we learn some of Alex's as well through conversation and internal monologue. Now some might like to have seen more of Alex's but personally I like a little off-page storytelling because there comes a point where it's just too much. Subtlety and readers imagination can be extremely powerful.
When dealing with PTSD in fiction I find there is too often two ways an author goes: short & brief to minimize the angst or highly detailed heavy on medical wordage so you feel like you're studying a medical school book. I'm all for reality in fiction when it comes to health but sometimes less can truly be more but not at all can disconnect a reader from the characters, so balance is key. RJ Scott has found that balance in Always You. As I said above, both characters are dealing with hurt and healing but Jazz is the primary focus on the healing front IMO and we see the hurt, the comfort, and the fallout/side effects but they don't overpower the story and the romance.
To put it bluntly and paraphrase Goldilocks: RJ Scott got it "just right" with Always You. You'll smile, you'll cry, you'll laugh, basically you'll be "ooohing" and "awwwing" all over the place.
February 26, 2025
RJ Scott writes damaged heroes perfectly, without over the top angst or histrionics. This lovely second chance romance almost takes a back seat for a good portion of the book, while Jazz rebuilds his life and learns to trust himself and his surroundings before re-engaging with Alex on more than a professional level. But old feelings and once young love still simmers between them even if it isn’t front and centre until the last third of the book.
* slow burn
* homeless veterans
* hope
* second chance romance
* 40 or thereabouts
* feelings of inadequacy and depression
A hopeful and positive read.
TW: there is thoughts of attempted suicide by one of the secondary characters.
* slow burn
* homeless veterans
* hope
* second chance romance
* 40 or thereabouts
* feelings of inadequacy and depression
A hopeful and positive read.
TW: there is thoughts of attempted suicide by one of the secondary characters.
February 16, 2025
This is a great start to a new series! Jazz and Alex were childhood friends and teenage lovers. Then, life took them in separate paths. Jazz joined the military and came back with scars, internal and external. Now, suffering from severe PTSD, he is homeless and at the end of his rope. As a last ditch effort, he knocks on the door of a special type of rehabilitative homeless shelter, Guardian Hall. His former friend, Alex, answers the door and they see each other for the first time in twenty years.
Alex's life has not been easy either. With an inheritance, he started Guardian Hall with his doctor best friend. It's a difficult path and he's on his own road to recovery. When he first sees Jazz again after all of the years, he's so afraid to lose him again. Still, Jazz is in desperate times and may bolt at any time. Can these two forge a path together and maybe get a second chance at love? This well-researched book is a path to healing and new hope. Eventually, it arrives at a beautiful, passionate forever love.
Alex's life has not been easy either. With an inheritance, he started Guardian Hall with his doctor best friend. It's a difficult path and he's on his own road to recovery. When he first sees Jazz again after all of the years, he's so afraid to lose him again. Still, Jazz is in desperate times and may bolt at any time. Can these two forge a path together and maybe get a second chance at love? This well-researched book is a path to healing and new hope. Eventually, it arrives at a beautiful, passionate forever love.
February 14, 2025
a beautiful story
As a veteran I know what Jazz was going through but to read it in a story meant the world to me.Thank you.
As a veteran I know what Jazz was going through but to read it in a story meant the world to me.Thank you.
March 17, 2025
Dnf 50% didn’t grab me, the writing wasn’t particularly strong and Jazz’s character was very very inconsistent. Slow burn which is nice but yea just fell flat
November 8, 2025
DNF @ 36%
Alex was very annoying in how he constantly pushed Jazz's boundaries. I needed him to respect Jazz's clear desire for him to stay away more before he started invading Jazz's space.
I DNFed after he initiated conversation with Jazz, yet again, saying "I miss my friend". Sad, but Alex lost the right to call Jazz his anything, let alone "friend", when he chose his family's money over their relationship. Sure, it was a mistake he regretted, but that doesn't change the fact that he had yet to meaningfully make it up to Jazz at that point in the story. I guess you could argue that him providing Guardian Hall as a service to him could be the start of that, but there was nothing Alex had yet done on a personal level to truly apologize to Jazz, so him just initiating conversations and insisting on being in the same space when Jazz clearly didn't want him to be was not at all romantic or sweet, it was pushy and disrespectful.
There needed to be a moment where they acknowledged their past and made clear decisions to move past it (particularly coming from Jazz's POV since he was the one scorned so he'd need to be the one to initiate forgiveness). Or alternatively, a more compelling reason for the forced proximity where neither Jazz nor Alex could have an excuse to stay away (which was not the case here because Alex could've given Jazz space in nearly every single situation). As it is, it just feels more like Alex trying to assert his personal desires over Jazz's (wanting to be friends again vs. Jazz wanting nothing to do with him) and wasn't that exactly what destroyed their relationship in the first place?
TL;DR: Alex hadn't earned Jazz's time but still kept on trying to insert himself into his life. Not sure if the author meant for Alex to come across as emotionally selfish and self-centered, but when it came to the romance, it definitely felt like he didn't learn his lesson from the past because of how he just did what he wanted without taking Jazz's personal feelings into consideration.
Alex was very annoying in how he constantly pushed Jazz's boundaries. I needed him to respect Jazz's clear desire for him to stay away more before he started invading Jazz's space.
I DNFed after he initiated conversation with Jazz, yet again, saying "I miss my friend". Sad, but Alex lost the right to call Jazz his anything, let alone "friend", when he chose his family's money over their relationship. Sure, it was a mistake he regretted, but that doesn't change the fact that he had yet to meaningfully make it up to Jazz at that point in the story. I guess you could argue that him providing Guardian Hall as a service to him could be the start of that, but there was nothing Alex had yet done on a personal level to truly apologize to Jazz, so him just initiating conversations and insisting on being in the same space when Jazz clearly didn't want him to be was not at all romantic or sweet, it was pushy and disrespectful.
There needed to be a moment where they acknowledged their past and made clear decisions to move past it (particularly coming from Jazz's POV since he was the one scorned so he'd need to be the one to initiate forgiveness). Or alternatively, a more compelling reason for the forced proximity where neither Jazz nor Alex could have an excuse to stay away (which was not the case here because Alex could've given Jazz space in nearly every single situation). As it is, it just feels more like Alex trying to assert his personal desires over Jazz's (wanting to be friends again vs. Jazz wanting nothing to do with him) and wasn't that exactly what destroyed their relationship in the first place?
TL;DR: Alex hadn't earned Jazz's time but still kept on trying to insert himself into his life. Not sure if the author meant for Alex to come across as emotionally selfish and self-centered, but when it came to the romance, it definitely felt like he didn't learn his lesson from the past because of how he just did what he wanted without taking Jazz's personal feelings into consideration.
July 16, 2025
A very emotional, well-written story. Alex and Jazz, teenage best friends/lovers torn apart and reconnect after twenty years. Jazz is a homeless veteran struggling to find his footing and winds up at the shelter run by none other than Alex. The story was emotionally packed for me because it represents, unfortunately, what far too many veterans experience. Jazz is experiencing a full range of emotional issues; fear, despair, hopelessness, etc., as well as physical ailments from life on the street. With the support of Guardian Hall, he begins to heal and reconnect with Alex.
While I found it heartwarming to watch Jazz heal, it just seemed like it happened a bit too fast. When I got to the epilogue and they were heading into Christmas, I thought, at first, it was a year later, not merely eight weeks. Their relationship was on steady ground and growing stronger but it felt a bit off. I think one of the issues I have with this story overall is that tbe focus is almost entirely on Jazz’s current situation, and although there is obviously a huge backstory and major life-altering events in Alex’s life, they’re mostly glossed over. I think it would have helpful to the story if there was a chapter or two on the events Alex alludes to. The only thing that keeps things in perspective with how far Jazz has come yet how far is has to go, it that we get a HFN ending. Hopefully, as these two become secondary characters in the next book, we’ll be able to glimpse their eventual HEA.
While I found it heartwarming to watch Jazz heal, it just seemed like it happened a bit too fast. When I got to the epilogue and they were heading into Christmas, I thought, at first, it was a year later, not merely eight weeks. Their relationship was on steady ground and growing stronger but it felt a bit off. I think one of the issues I have with this story overall is that tbe focus is almost entirely on Jazz’s current situation, and although there is obviously a huge backstory and major life-altering events in Alex’s life, they’re mostly glossed over. I think it would have helpful to the story if there was a chapter or two on the events Alex alludes to. The only thing that keeps things in perspective with how far Jazz has come yet how far is has to go, it that we get a HFN ending. Hopefully, as these two become secondary characters in the next book, we’ll be able to glimpse their eventual HEA.
January 29, 2025
This was a poignant story about Jazz and Alex, friends and lovers since they were about eighteen years old. Both from very different backgrounds, Alex broke Jazz’s heart when he appeared to choose his wealthy family over Jazz.
Jazz joined the military and they didn’t see or speak to each other again for twenty years. It was a very different Jazz we see years later. Suffering from PTSD, homeless, penniless and ill, divorced from his wife and not allowed to see his daughter, Jazz can’t fall any further. The Chicago winters are harsh and after a spell in hospital for a chest infection, Jazz has to swallow his pride and knock on the door of a homeless and rehabilitation house for veterans knowing his first love Alex owned it.
My heart broke for poor Jazz and his mental health. He wouldn’t let Alex near him, kept himself locked in his room and had nightmares night after night. The only person he would let in was Marcus, Alex’s best friend and the shelters doctor.
It was lovely to see how he gradually opened up and how the therapy and the animal shelter, they always say animals are good therapy, Alex also owned helped calm him and reuniting with his daughter was so touching.
RJ writes beautiful romances with characters that make you feel for them and she tackles mental health issues with sensitivity. I really enjoyed this book and have no hesitation in recommending it and I can’t wait to read Marcus’ story next.
Jazz joined the military and they didn’t see or speak to each other again for twenty years. It was a very different Jazz we see years later. Suffering from PTSD, homeless, penniless and ill, divorced from his wife and not allowed to see his daughter, Jazz can’t fall any further. The Chicago winters are harsh and after a spell in hospital for a chest infection, Jazz has to swallow his pride and knock on the door of a homeless and rehabilitation house for veterans knowing his first love Alex owned it.
My heart broke for poor Jazz and his mental health. He wouldn’t let Alex near him, kept himself locked in his room and had nightmares night after night. The only person he would let in was Marcus, Alex’s best friend and the shelters doctor.
It was lovely to see how he gradually opened up and how the therapy and the animal shelter, they always say animals are good therapy, Alex also owned helped calm him and reuniting with his daughter was so touching.
RJ writes beautiful romances with characters that make you feel for them and she tackles mental health issues with sensitivity. I really enjoyed this book and have no hesitation in recommending it and I can’t wait to read Marcus’ story next.
May 5, 2025
I loved Alex and Jazz’s story, and am happy this is the beginning of a new series. The first few lines of the story with the evocative description of the cold pulled me into the story, and beautifully set the scene. I liked that Guardian Hall is a shelter set up to help and support veterans and the reason behind its inception.
I liked that both Alex and Jazz are recovering and trying to move forward from their pasts which have been damaging in different ways. Alex and Marcus setting up Guardian Hall is a brilliant idea, and I liked that they can relate to the veterans in the fact they’ve had their own demons. I liked that Alex and Jazz are cautious in reconnecting as it felt realistic considering how they parted years ago.
I liked the other characters who populate the shelter, and hope some of them get their own story too. I loved Marcus and am looking forward to getting to know him better. His and Alex’s friendship is one of the highlights of this story.
This story is very much about family with Jazz reconnecting with his daughter, and finally learning the truth about Alex’s, what they pushed him into, and then what happened later.
I loved the part the animals at the rescue shelter play in bringing Jazz and Alex towards their HEA. The kittens, in particular, have big personalities, right from the beginning.
I liked that both Alex and Jazz are recovering and trying to move forward from their pasts which have been damaging in different ways. Alex and Marcus setting up Guardian Hall is a brilliant idea, and I liked that they can relate to the veterans in the fact they’ve had their own demons. I liked that Alex and Jazz are cautious in reconnecting as it felt realistic considering how they parted years ago.
I liked the other characters who populate the shelter, and hope some of them get their own story too. I loved Marcus and am looking forward to getting to know him better. His and Alex’s friendship is one of the highlights of this story.
This story is very much about family with Jazz reconnecting with his daughter, and finally learning the truth about Alex’s, what they pushed him into, and then what happened later.
I loved the part the animals at the rescue shelter play in bringing Jazz and Alex towards their HEA. The kittens, in particular, have big personalities, right from the beginning.
January 24, 2025
I sometimes have trouble finding the words to describe how much I love a book and this is one of those times. RJ Scott has been on my list of favorite authors since I read my first book by her in 2016 and Always You keeps her firmly on that list.
If you’re looking for a book that’s heavy on the spice this probably isn’t that book. What it is though, is a story that melted my heart and made me fall in love with Jazz and Alex. They were childhood best friends and then life happened and they went separate ways. Twenty years later Jazz finds himself in need of the shelter that Alex runs.
Always You tore my heart up in places but it put me all back together again by the end. Now I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, Always Hope. This is a free weekly story available on RJ’s completely FREE Patreon. Check it out here: https://rebrand.ly/vj4rtkw
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
If you’re looking for a book that’s heavy on the spice this probably isn’t that book. What it is though, is a story that melted my heart and made me fall in love with Jazz and Alex. They were childhood best friends and then life happened and they went separate ways. Twenty years later Jazz finds himself in need of the shelter that Alex runs.
Always You tore my heart up in places but it put me all back together again by the end. Now I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, Always Hope. This is a free weekly story available on RJ’s completely FREE Patreon. Check it out here: https://rebrand.ly/vj4rtkw
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
January 29, 2025
Jazz is a veteran who finds himself seeking shelter at Guardian Hall in Chicago, a refuge offering medical care, food, therapy, and support for veterans experiencing homelessness. What he doesn’t expect is to find Alex, his childhood sweetheart and now the owner and psychologist at the shelter. Their reunion is a surprise, especially since Alex was the one who ended their relationship years ago. However, Alex is more focused on Jazz’s health and wellbeing, eager for a chance to explain what led to their past breakup.
At Guardian Hall, Jazz faces his struggles with pride, panic, and anxiety, but the shelter gives him hope for change. It also provides a bittersweet look at the harsh realities veterans face once out of service, and the heartbreaking fight to rebuild their lives. As Jazz settles in, he starts to rebuild relationships, including one with his daughter, and finds solace in the therapy animals at the shelter. Always You deals with healing, second chances, and overcoming the tough moments of trauma, especially when Jazz is first adjusting to his new life at Guardian Hall.
At Guardian Hall, Jazz faces his struggles with pride, panic, and anxiety, but the shelter gives him hope for change. It also provides a bittersweet look at the harsh realities veterans face once out of service, and the heartbreaking fight to rebuild their lives. As Jazz settles in, he starts to rebuild relationships, including one with his daughter, and finds solace in the therapy animals at the shelter. Always You deals with healing, second chances, and overcoming the tough moments of trauma, especially when Jazz is first adjusting to his new life at Guardian Hall.
July 6, 2025
Transcendence in Every Page: The RJ Scott Experience
I read a lot of gay romance. Each author gives so much — passion, heart, and a deep commitment to telling stories that give us both escape and hope. I’m forever grateful that I live in a time where these stories are not only told, but celebrated.
And then RJ Scott releases a new book…
And suddenly I’m reminded what it feels like to be “undone” by a story.
“Always You” isn’t just a romance — it’s an emotional experience. Imagine that afterglow of intimacy with someone you adore, someone you never imagined you’d be worthy of — where time suspends, your body hums with peace and joy, and there’s nothing but the moment. That’s what reading this book felt like.
Scott doesn’t shy away from hard truths, and yet she wraps them in so much tenderness and depth that it’s impossible not to be moved. Yes, it’s a love story — but it’s also a testament to resilience, to connection, and to the kind of healing that only love can bring.
I didn’t just read “Always You”. I “felt” it. And I won’t forget it.
I read a lot of gay romance. Each author gives so much — passion, heart, and a deep commitment to telling stories that give us both escape and hope. I’m forever grateful that I live in a time where these stories are not only told, but celebrated.
And then RJ Scott releases a new book…
And suddenly I’m reminded what it feels like to be “undone” by a story.
“Always You” isn’t just a romance — it’s an emotional experience. Imagine that afterglow of intimacy with someone you adore, someone you never imagined you’d be worthy of — where time suspends, your body hums with peace and joy, and there’s nothing but the moment. That’s what reading this book felt like.
Scott doesn’t shy away from hard truths, and yet she wraps them in so much tenderness and depth that it’s impossible not to be moved. Yes, it’s a love story — but it’s also a testament to resilience, to connection, and to the kind of healing that only love can bring.
I didn’t just read “Always You”. I “felt” it. And I won’t forget it.
January 17, 2025
First in series (Guardian Hall). Mature characters. Second chance. Hurt/comfort. Very slow burn. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.
An unexpected reunion between former boyfriends and best friends Alex and Jazz where Jazz is seeking help and Alex is able to provide support that gives them both hope. They may have been close 20 years ago, but that time was fraught with experiences that changed them forever and a ton of healing has to happen as they realize that their first love never faded.
This was an emotional and heart wrenching read as Jazz attempts to rebuild his life and Alex genuinely gives him space and time to do that on his own. It’s very clear that they had something special once and those feelings return just as strong. I really enjoyed this second chance for two men that are strong in their own right but can support, care and love each other with honest communication, love and hope for a future together. Such a lovely read. 4.5 rounded up.
An unexpected reunion between former boyfriends and best friends Alex and Jazz where Jazz is seeking help and Alex is able to provide support that gives them both hope. They may have been close 20 years ago, but that time was fraught with experiences that changed them forever and a ton of healing has to happen as they realize that their first love never faded.
This was an emotional and heart wrenching read as Jazz attempts to rebuild his life and Alex genuinely gives him space and time to do that on his own. It’s very clear that they had something special once and those feelings return just as strong. I really enjoyed this second chance for two men that are strong in their own right but can support, care and love each other with honest communication, love and hope for a future together. Such a lovely read. 4.5 rounded up.
February 1, 2025
The new, wonderful slow burn story from Mrs. Scott captivated me fast.
It was an realistic feeling tale about second chances and overcoming the past, fears as well as trauma and made me feel all the feels from hopelessness to hope. Some times it was downright heart wrenching.
To practically feel how desperate Alex was to keep Jazz safe and giving him all the help he could even if it meant keeping his distance... it broke me a little. And I was so there for it at the same time. I sat there, hoping...and giving a stern talking to my kindle, trying to get Jazz to see sense. *laughs*
I was easily and deeply invested in the characters and their story. I only wished we'd have gotten to know more about Alex' backstory. But that didn't diminish my enjoyment overall.
The story kept me engaged and entertained and I can't wait to read more from this series.
I think I have a soft spot for 'broken' characters, made whole again.
It was an realistic feeling tale about second chances and overcoming the past, fears as well as trauma and made me feel all the feels from hopelessness to hope. Some times it was downright heart wrenching.
To practically feel how desperate Alex was to keep Jazz safe and giving him all the help he could even if it meant keeping his distance... it broke me a little. And I was so there for it at the same time. I sat there, hoping...and giving a stern talking to my kindle, trying to get Jazz to see sense. *laughs*
I was easily and deeply invested in the characters and their story. I only wished we'd have gotten to know more about Alex' backstory. But that didn't diminish my enjoyment overall.
The story kept me engaged and entertained and I can't wait to read more from this series.
I think I have a soft spot for 'broken' characters, made whole again.
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