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Always #2
Always Been Mine
Beatrice Porter swore she would never fall in love with a man like her father. For years she watched her mother self-destruct in bitterness, married to someone who only lived for his job. Gabriel Sullivan was such a man—a Navy SEAL, a man who put duty and country above all else. Yet falling in love with him was inevitable. She thought their relationship could work until he’d left her one night with a broken heart and her pride in tatters.
Three years later, he’s back and he wants a second chance.
Having committed atrocities for the greater good, Gabe has nothing left but darkness inside him. The only flicker of light is the memory of Beatrice—a woman embedded deeply under his skin.
Winning her back won’t be easy for she has erected walls that only the toughest of SEALs can hope to scale.
When Beatrice finds herself at the center of a deadly game, Gabe discovers the eerie similarities of the killer’s MO to a former assassin.
Discovering a link to the past, a truth that may cost him the woman he loves, distancing himself may be the only option to save Beatrice, but he is done walking away.
Gabe just needs to convince her this time he is all in, and a future with her is the only redemption worth having.
Three years later, he’s back and he wants a second chance.
Having committed atrocities for the greater good, Gabe has nothing left but darkness inside him. The only flicker of light is the memory of Beatrice—a woman embedded deeply under his skin.
Winning her back won’t be easy for she has erected walls that only the toughest of SEALs can hope to scale.
When Beatrice finds herself at the center of a deadly game, Gabe discovers the eerie similarities of the killer’s MO to a former assassin.
Discovering a link to the past, a truth that may cost him the woman he loves, distancing himself may be the only option to save Beatrice, but he is done walking away.
Gabe just needs to convince her this time he is all in, and a future with her is the only redemption worth having.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2014
1018 people are currently reading
1739 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Paige
32 books1,058 followersVictoria Paige writes smart, edgy, seductive romance.
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
Her heroes are badass alpha males and her smart, strong-willed heroines can hold their own against a bossy hero. Her books are sexually explicit and may contain dark themes, morally ambiguous choices, and disturbing situations as she injects realism into her stories and gives them her own twist.
Victoria lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and playful German Shepherd Dog, Loki.
Find her at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapaig...
Twitter: @vpaigebooks
Join my newsletter for new release info, extended epilogues, giveaways and other freebies: https://www.subscribepage.com/victori...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
December 10, 2014
3.5 Poppy Stars!
This wasn't my first book by Victoria Paige, and it definitely won't be my last. She uses a great formula for her books:
1. Romance
2. Strong main characters.
3. Her stories are plot driven.
The male characters are alpha but when it starts getting a bit extreme they always show that that softer side to balance things out. So let me start with my all my gripes, just to get that out of the way because for the most part I really did enjoy this story. My main issue was how long it took for the book to focus on the actual love story, don't get me wrong I love a fast paced and exciting plot. As a backdrop. But it all needs to revolve around the couple in the story, but it felt like instead of enhancing the story it was deflecting from the most important part. Gabe and Beatrice.
Beatrice's job is to basically find the best security for her clients, who are mainly politicians and celebrities. For almost half the book I felt like there was too much focus on Beatrice's clients and how Gabe is trying to protect her. And less on them trying to rebuild their relationship which made their recovery seem a bit rushed.
Okay last gripe, and it's with both characters.I felt like Beatrice was so incredibly hard on Gabe, yeah I get that he hurt her but I felt like she could have been more understanding. Give a guy a break, girl! Finally... Gabe. Look I'm using Travis Blake as reference when it comes to alpha males, and yes I didn't want a repeat of Travis' performance. But Gabe could have been a little more earnest in his endeavour to win Beatrice back. Travis doesn't know the meaning of the word space.
And now for the rest of the book which I really enjoyed. Once again the author produced a kickass female lead who could watch her own back but was feminine enough to let the hero help her out! I loved the fact that Gabe had to fight his old persona from surfacing. It was deliciously sinister (does that even make sense?) Beatrice's dad, was another character I loved learning more about, I kinda wish he'd get his own story too even though it would be a bit sad...a prequel perhaps? Gabe and Beatrice's chemistry was sizzling but like I said it lost some intensity because of the lag in the beginning.
The plot did keep me on my feet because I never quite knew who was the villain or villains rather... I did have my suspicions but in some cases I was wrong, everyone was a suspect. I'm really excited to read more about Nate, I'd love to see him get knocked down a peg or two since he's so adamant about not wanting to commit to anyone.
All in all a great read, I just kept comparing them to Caitlin and Travis.
She was his light.
His prize.
His redemption.
ARC kindly provided by author in return for an honest review
This wasn't my first book by Victoria Paige, and it definitely won't be my last. She uses a great formula for her books:
1. Romance
2. Strong main characters.
3. Her stories are plot driven.
The male characters are alpha but when it starts getting a bit extreme they always show that that softer side to balance things out. So let me start with my all my gripes, just to get that out of the way because for the most part I really did enjoy this story. My main issue was how long it took for the book to focus on the actual love story, don't get me wrong I love a fast paced and exciting plot. As a backdrop. But it all needs to revolve around the couple in the story, but it felt like instead of enhancing the story it was deflecting from the most important part. Gabe and Beatrice.
Beatrice's job is to basically find the best security for her clients, who are mainly politicians and celebrities. For almost half the book I felt like there was too much focus on Beatrice's clients and how Gabe is trying to protect her. And less on them trying to rebuild their relationship which made their recovery seem a bit rushed.
Okay last gripe, and it's with both characters.I felt like Beatrice was so incredibly hard on Gabe, yeah I get that he hurt her but I felt like she could have been more understanding. Give a guy a break, girl! Finally... Gabe. Look I'm using Travis Blake as reference when it comes to alpha males, and yes I didn't want a repeat of Travis' performance. But Gabe could have been a little more earnest in his endeavour to win Beatrice back. Travis doesn't know the meaning of the word space.
And now for the rest of the book which I really enjoyed. Once again the author produced a kickass female lead who could watch her own back but was feminine enough to let the hero help her out! I loved the fact that Gabe had to fight his old persona from surfacing. It was deliciously sinister (does that even make sense?) Beatrice's dad, was another character I loved learning more about, I kinda wish he'd get his own story too even though it would be a bit sad...a prequel perhaps? Gabe and Beatrice's chemistry was sizzling but like I said it lost some intensity because of the lag in the beginning.
The plot did keep me on my feet because I never quite knew who was the villain or villains rather... I did have my suspicions but in some cases I was wrong, everyone was a suspect. I'm really excited to read more about Nate, I'd love to see him get knocked down a peg or two since he's so adamant about not wanting to commit to anyone.
All in all a great read, I just kept comparing them to Caitlin and Travis.
She was his light.
His prize.
His redemption.
ARC kindly provided by author in return for an honest review
December 8, 2014
4.5 second chance stars!!
Ever since I've read It's Always Been You, I couldn't take my mind off of Gabe and Beatrice. I'm a sucker for a second chance at love trope. Plus the possibility of a groveling hero makes me absolutely giddy. Giddy. And guess what? This one delivered on the groveling and then some.
Gabe Sullivan and Beatrice Porter were sorta an item three years ago. And just when they were about to take their relationship to the next level, Gabe suddenly took off and left Beatrice high and dry. Fast forward to three years later and Gabe is back. Not only is he back for good, he wants to pick up where he left off with Beatrice.
Bee on the other hand, felt very deeply the sting of rejection of Gabe's departure. She's already messed up courtesy of her father's own rejection, so Gabe leaving did a number on her.
Gabe and Bee's road to HEA isn't an easy one. But boy, Gabe really won me over. The author did a phenomenal job giving us Gabe's perspective. 15% in, I already wanted Bee to forgive him. I could totally feel how sorry he was and how much he wants Beatrice back. Like I said, I love a good grovel book and this one is one of the best.
But more than just Gabe and Bee trying to get back together, this book also contains a pretty good cloak-and-dagger element that, surprisingly, I found appealing. Some readers might find the cloak-and-dagger stuff unappealing but I felt that the author did a good job interspersing the suspense with the romance throughout the book. Plus, Gabe and Beatrice are hot together. And just like Travis, Gabe is Alpha with a capital A.
So yes, anyone who's crazy for alpha males should pick up this series. It has great balance between the romance and the suspense part.
Edit: I almost forgot to mention that I loved that the women in this series are written as badass as their male counterparts. The heroes are very alpha but their women are no shrinking violets, so it creates some really delicious dynamic between them.
Ever since I've read It's Always Been You, I couldn't take my mind off of Gabe and Beatrice. I'm a sucker for a second chance at love trope. Plus the possibility of a groveling hero makes me absolutely giddy. Giddy. And guess what? This one delivered on the groveling and then some.
Gabe Sullivan and Beatrice Porter were sorta an item three years ago. And just when they were about to take their relationship to the next level, Gabe suddenly took off and left Beatrice high and dry. Fast forward to three years later and Gabe is back. Not only is he back for good, he wants to pick up where he left off with Beatrice.
Bee on the other hand, felt very deeply the sting of rejection of Gabe's departure. She's already messed up courtesy of her father's own rejection, so Gabe leaving did a number on her.
Gabe and Bee's road to HEA isn't an easy one. But boy, Gabe really won me over. The author did a phenomenal job giving us Gabe's perspective. 15% in, I already wanted Bee to forgive him. I could totally feel how sorry he was and how much he wants Beatrice back. Like I said, I love a good grovel book and this one is one of the best.
But more than just Gabe and Bee trying to get back together, this book also contains a pretty good cloak-and-dagger element that, surprisingly, I found appealing. Some readers might find the cloak-and-dagger stuff unappealing but I felt that the author did a good job interspersing the suspense with the romance throughout the book. Plus, Gabe and Beatrice are hot together. And just like Travis, Gabe is Alpha with a capital A.
So yes, anyone who's crazy for alpha males should pick up this series. It has great balance between the romance and the suspense part.
Edit: I almost forgot to mention that I loved that the women in this series are written as badass as their male counterparts. The heroes are very alpha but their women are no shrinking violets, so it creates some really delicious dynamic between them.
December 23, 2014
FOUR STARS!
The next best thing to salivating over a flesh and blood military man is salivating over a fictional military man. And joy of all joys, this book had my salivating skills maxing out throughout the whole read. And if that makes me sound pathetic, well, lets just chalk this up to moments where I should learn to filter my inner thoughts. *awks laugh*
Always Been Mine follows in the same vein of it's predecessor It's Always Been You. Filled with action, mystery and intrigue, readers follow Gabriel Sullivan and Beatrice Porter as they try to piece together the identity of the men targeting Beatrice in the hopes of luring out her father, Admiral Benjamin Porter.
I was hella intrigued about Gabriel when the truth of his character came to light in the first book and was absolutely dying to get my hands onhimthis book. He's so fierce and swoon worthy when he's protecting Beatrice that I was rolling in the feels (there's this one scene that gave me the absolute shivers, hot damn this guy is amazing). Beatrice was a great heroine. I was kinda unsure of her when her character was featured in the first book but my respect for her absolutely sky-rocketed in this one. She's no push over and I was totally rooting for her when she was struggling to come to terms with the things that happened to her.
So, why not five stars?
The main thing that got me was that I was really hoping for an epilogue such as the one we received in It's Always Been You. It was hella sweet and offered readers different glimpses of Travis' and Caitlyn's lives together. I was really hoping to see Gabe and Beatrice several years into the future with maybe a kid or two to add to their little family, so when I didn't get it, my pathetic heart wept with great sadness.
The other thing was that I thought the story-telling felt a bit...unfinished, for lack of a better word. It really didn't flow as well as the first book, IMO, and there were quite a few awkward sentences that I couldn't seem to wrap my mind around. Though to be fair, I received an ARC copy so the published one may read a little differently.
Overall, a great read. This series is definitely a guilty pleasure of mine and I can't wait for the next installment!
Reading order:
&
.
ARC provided by the generous Victoria Paige! Thank you!
The next best thing to salivating over a flesh and blood military man is salivating over a fictional military man. And joy of all joys, this book had my salivating skills maxing out throughout the whole read. And if that makes me sound pathetic, well, lets just chalk this up to moments where I should learn to filter my inner thoughts. *awks laugh*
Always Been Mine follows in the same vein of it's predecessor It's Always Been You. Filled with action, mystery and intrigue, readers follow Gabriel Sullivan and Beatrice Porter as they try to piece together the identity of the men targeting Beatrice in the hopes of luring out her father, Admiral Benjamin Porter.
I was hella intrigued about Gabriel when the truth of his character came to light in the first book and was absolutely dying to get my hands on
So, why not five stars?
The main thing that got me was that I was really hoping for an epilogue such as the one we received in It's Always Been You. It was hella sweet and offered readers different glimpses of Travis' and Caitlyn's lives together. I was really hoping to see Gabe and Beatrice several years into the future with maybe a kid or two to add to their little family, so when I didn't get it, my pathetic heart wept with great sadness.
The other thing was that I thought the story-telling felt a bit...unfinished, for lack of a better word. It really didn't flow as well as the first book, IMO, and there were quite a few awkward sentences that I couldn't seem to wrap my mind around. Though to be fair, I received an ARC copy so the published one may read a little differently.
Overall, a great read. This series is definitely a guilty pleasure of mine and I can't wait for the next installment!
Reading order:
&
.ARC provided by the generous Victoria Paige! Thank you!
December 1, 2014
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Title:Always Been Mine
Series:Always #2
Author:Victoria Paige
Release date: December, 2014
Rating:4 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
First off, let me start by saying that although this is technically a standalone, I highly suggest reading book one before you start this. If you don't, I have doubts that you'll be able to get through this comfortably. The characters and plot overlap and are pretty tightly interwoven together making it necessary to brush up on the events and backstories that are introduced in book one. I suppose you could attempt it, but I wouldn't recommend it.
Moving on, I had quite a difficult time sinking into this story initially. I would say the first half of the book was slow moving and I was finding it hard to connect with the MCs. I'm not saying I disliked them, but honestly, my feelings were somewhat indifferent. I just wasn't feeling a lot of intensity. And looking back, I think the reason for that was that all my focus was centered on the intricate plot and all the players involved. The detail involved in the story overshadowed the couple's reconciliation and cause a bit of a disconnect.
In book 1, we're already told that Beatrice and Gabe had an affair that crashed and burned in the past. Gabe disappeared one day and no one had seen him for three years. He's an ex-Navy SEAL and now did black ops missions for her father, Admiral Benjamin Porter (recruiter and strategist for the CIA).
It's also discovered in book one, that Gabe had been sent by her father to go deep undercover into the Russian Mafia to pose as an enforcer to bring down some highly dangerous criminals. The thing is though, he did more than pose as an enforcer. He became one. Highly feared, and highly lethal. And he saw and did things in those years that he can't reconcile with his real self. He's not even sure who he is anymore. He finds himself slipping subconsciously into his enforcer persona and he's not sure how to let the past go for good.
Now, his duty is done and he's back. His first and only goal is to make amends for how he left her cruelly without any warning or explanation. He promised her forever but that only lasted until he was called to duty. It was everything she experienced growing up with her father all over again, and she was completely shattered when he left.
Now, he had to earn her forgiveness, and hope she'd take him back. She didn't know it yet, but he wasn't giving her a choice.
But she's a strong and independent woman, and she picked up the pieces and carved out a career setting up security for high level politicians. I loved her strength and bravery, it was something that really endeared her to me. I don't care at all for weak heroines, it's a huge turn-off so in this case, I was happy she lived up to my expectations. She held her own with this tough, overbearing, and jealous alpha and her stubborn side prevented him from controlling her like his instincts were pushing him to do.
He was a possessive son of a bitch, and he wanted more. The fates must be laughing down on him because he had to go and fall in love with the most stubborn and independent woman on the planet.
He was also very sweet and clearly completely obsessed with her and willing to do anything to make amends.
After taking down Zorin Bratva, a russian arms dealer in book one, everyone thought things had cooled down and things could go back to normal. Gabe could acclimate himself into normal society and win back his woman. Well, of course it wouldn't be that easy. This time around, they're fighting the clock to prevent deadly bio weapons from being sold to the Russians. Not only that, as the Admiral's daughter, Beatrice has become a target-she's his one weakness and there isn't a shortage of men willing to exploit that.
Around the 50% mark, the book finally picked up for me and I was able to immerse myself more easily into Beatrice and Gabe's relationship. It could have been Gabe's passion and intensity that won me over. He was completely dominating and overbearing and panty meltingly hot.
"That attitude is sexy, and it makes me hard as hell. But it's only because I can't wait to fuck it out of you." His hands fisted her panties and ripped them off.
The action, as in the last book was done with precision and the pace escalated in the second half enough to keep me hooked until the end. Overall, I liked this couple, but I didn't love them. And even though I read the first book, I struggled to keep all the characters straight in my mind and remember the detailed events that occurred. However, I think this author has great talent, and even though I didn't like it as much as the previous book, I still thought it was well written with a lot of decent steamy scenes. The pacing wasn't completely smooth all the way through for me personally, but in the end, I was happy. The epilogue in particular really was exceptional. It was the perfect wrap up to Gabe and Beatrice.
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Title:Always Been Mine
Series:Always #2
Author:Victoria Paige
Release date: December, 2014
Rating:4 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
First off, let me start by saying that although this is technically a standalone, I highly suggest reading book one before you start this. If you don't, I have doubts that you'll be able to get through this comfortably. The characters and plot overlap and are pretty tightly interwoven together making it necessary to brush up on the events and backstories that are introduced in book one. I suppose you could attempt it, but I wouldn't recommend it.
Moving on, I had quite a difficult time sinking into this story initially. I would say the first half of the book was slow moving and I was finding it hard to connect with the MCs. I'm not saying I disliked them, but honestly, my feelings were somewhat indifferent. I just wasn't feeling a lot of intensity. And looking back, I think the reason for that was that all my focus was centered on the intricate plot and all the players involved. The detail involved in the story overshadowed the couple's reconciliation and cause a bit of a disconnect.
In book 1, we're already told that Beatrice and Gabe had an affair that crashed and burned in the past. Gabe disappeared one day and no one had seen him for three years. He's an ex-Navy SEAL and now did black ops missions for her father, Admiral Benjamin Porter (recruiter and strategist for the CIA).
It's also discovered in book one, that Gabe had been sent by her father to go deep undercover into the Russian Mafia to pose as an enforcer to bring down some highly dangerous criminals. The thing is though, he did more than pose as an enforcer. He became one. Highly feared, and highly lethal. And he saw and did things in those years that he can't reconcile with his real self. He's not even sure who he is anymore. He finds himself slipping subconsciously into his enforcer persona and he's not sure how to let the past go for good.
Now, his duty is done and he's back. His first and only goal is to make amends for how he left her cruelly without any warning or explanation. He promised her forever but that only lasted until he was called to duty. It was everything she experienced growing up with her father all over again, and she was completely shattered when he left.
Now, he had to earn her forgiveness, and hope she'd take him back. She didn't know it yet, but he wasn't giving her a choice.
But she's a strong and independent woman, and she picked up the pieces and carved out a career setting up security for high level politicians. I loved her strength and bravery, it was something that really endeared her to me. I don't care at all for weak heroines, it's a huge turn-off so in this case, I was happy she lived up to my expectations. She held her own with this tough, overbearing, and jealous alpha and her stubborn side prevented him from controlling her like his instincts were pushing him to do.
He was a possessive son of a bitch, and he wanted more. The fates must be laughing down on him because he had to go and fall in love with the most stubborn and independent woman on the planet.
He was also very sweet and clearly completely obsessed with her and willing to do anything to make amends.
After taking down Zorin Bratva, a russian arms dealer in book one, everyone thought things had cooled down and things could go back to normal. Gabe could acclimate himself into normal society and win back his woman. Well, of course it wouldn't be that easy. This time around, they're fighting the clock to prevent deadly bio weapons from being sold to the Russians. Not only that, as the Admiral's daughter, Beatrice has become a target-she's his one weakness and there isn't a shortage of men willing to exploit that.
Around the 50% mark, the book finally picked up for me and I was able to immerse myself more easily into Beatrice and Gabe's relationship. It could have been Gabe's passion and intensity that won me over. He was completely dominating and overbearing and panty meltingly hot.
"That attitude is sexy, and it makes me hard as hell. But it's only because I can't wait to fuck it out of you." His hands fisted her panties and ripped them off.
The action, as in the last book was done with precision and the pace escalated in the second half enough to keep me hooked until the end. Overall, I liked this couple, but I didn't love them. And even though I read the first book, I struggled to keep all the characters straight in my mind and remember the detailed events that occurred. However, I think this author has great talent, and even though I didn't like it as much as the previous book, I still thought it was well written with a lot of decent steamy scenes. The pacing wasn't completely smooth all the way through for me personally, but in the end, I was happy. The epilogue in particular really was exceptional. It was the perfect wrap up to Gabe and Beatrice.
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July 11, 2017
Available now:
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Instead of posting a review of my own book. I'm writing a post-analysis of the why/how I wrote the book the way I did. Enclosing in spoiler quotes, so don't read until you've read the book!! This may answer some questions and it may not. :)
December 19, 2014
Romance + Suspense equals another exciting read!
This romantic suspense is about a shattered and broken relationship and the hero's determination to mend it despite the evil forces involved in illegal espionage activities and deadly secrets from the the hero's past. It took a while for me to warm up to this couple because there were broken and hurt feelings between the two for a while from their devastating breakup. Gabe could not reveal his undercover work for the government when he left Beatrice, so he made her think it was just a fling and over. Beatrice believes she was not really loved or important to Gabe. She is fighting her old attraction and love for him and trying not to be hurt again. Gabe is trying to make himself a man worthy of her love even though he had to do things undercover that make him feel damaged.
Gabe decides that he will not stop fighting for that second chance no matter what resistance he encounters and starts on the journey to convince Beatrice that she is his priority from now on. He's willing to grovel to prove it to her. He is very possessive of her and totally jealous of the men she has been dating while he was away. He feels that Beatrice has always belonged to him even when he had to let her go for a while. He will never love anyone else and he is back to claim his "poppy".
Beatrice is no pushover. She admits to being a bit high maintenance, but certainly not flighty or vain. She just likes her creature comforts, fashion, her work, and the big city lifestyle. She is smart and ambitious. Beatrice makes things difficult for Gage when he tries to disrupt the life she has established after he left. She keeps her walls up even when he tries to seduce her back into his arms. She is suspicious of the mysteries and rumors from Gabe's activities while he was gone. Once Gabe uses his communication skills and reveals why he left Bea and how his undercover activities caused him to make horrific choices, she realizes he is willing to let her into his life all the way. He convinces Beatrice that he will dedicate himself to their relationship and she gives him her trust again.
Unfortunately, outside forces interfere with their path to love. Gabe's past enemies and Beatrice's job as a security consultant put her in the path of danger. Her father's work with the CIA also makes her a target. Gabe will do anything to make sure Beatrice is safe from any further harm and that these enemies pay permanently. There are lots of twists and turns in the suspense plot, and you have to really pay attention to keep up. Sometimes the suspense plot overtakes the romance story in this book, but Ms. Paige does weave an intriguing tale that kept me reading until the very end.
Some characters from the first book in the series as well as the Guardians series make an appearance in the story to help the couple outwit the bad guys at the end. It is not necessary to read the other books to read this one, but it can provide some fun continuity. By the end of the story, I was totally convinced of this couple's bond and found the journey they had to take to get there hard-won and satisfying. The last chapter is more like a good epilogue with action taking place 8 months later after the resolution to the major storyline. I look forward to the next book in this series. I always enjoy Ms. Paige's stories. She has a talent for romantic suspense and always fulfills my need for a romance with a possessive, protective, alpha male that is totally dedicated to his intelligent, strong, and loyal heroine.
I received an ARC of this book. I wanted to write a review because I really did enjoy the story.
This romantic suspense is about a shattered and broken relationship and the hero's determination to mend it despite the evil forces involved in illegal espionage activities and deadly secrets from the the hero's past. It took a while for me to warm up to this couple because there were broken and hurt feelings between the two for a while from their devastating breakup. Gabe could not reveal his undercover work for the government when he left Beatrice, so he made her think it was just a fling and over. Beatrice believes she was not really loved or important to Gabe. She is fighting her old attraction and love for him and trying not to be hurt again. Gabe is trying to make himself a man worthy of her love even though he had to do things undercover that make him feel damaged.
Gabe decides that he will not stop fighting for that second chance no matter what resistance he encounters and starts on the journey to convince Beatrice that she is his priority from now on. He's willing to grovel to prove it to her. He is very possessive of her and totally jealous of the men she has been dating while he was away. He feels that Beatrice has always belonged to him even when he had to let her go for a while. He will never love anyone else and he is back to claim his "poppy".
Beatrice is no pushover. She admits to being a bit high maintenance, but certainly not flighty or vain. She just likes her creature comforts, fashion, her work, and the big city lifestyle. She is smart and ambitious. Beatrice makes things difficult for Gage when he tries to disrupt the life she has established after he left. She keeps her walls up even when he tries to seduce her back into his arms. She is suspicious of the mysteries and rumors from Gabe's activities while he was gone. Once Gabe uses his communication skills and reveals why he left Bea and how his undercover activities caused him to make horrific choices, she realizes he is willing to let her into his life all the way. He convinces Beatrice that he will dedicate himself to their relationship and she gives him her trust again.
Unfortunately, outside forces interfere with their path to love. Gabe's past enemies and Beatrice's job as a security consultant put her in the path of danger. Her father's work with the CIA also makes her a target. Gabe will do anything to make sure Beatrice is safe from any further harm and that these enemies pay permanently. There are lots of twists and turns in the suspense plot, and you have to really pay attention to keep up. Sometimes the suspense plot overtakes the romance story in this book, but Ms. Paige does weave an intriguing tale that kept me reading until the very end.
Some characters from the first book in the series as well as the Guardians series make an appearance in the story to help the couple outwit the bad guys at the end. It is not necessary to read the other books to read this one, but it can provide some fun continuity. By the end of the story, I was totally convinced of this couple's bond and found the journey they had to take to get there hard-won and satisfying. The last chapter is more like a good epilogue with action taking place 8 months later after the resolution to the major storyline. I look forward to the next book in this series. I always enjoy Ms. Paige's stories. She has a talent for romantic suspense and always fulfills my need for a romance with a possessive, protective, alpha male that is totally dedicated to his intelligent, strong, and loyal heroine.
I received an ARC of this book. I wanted to write a review because I really did enjoy the story.
December 1, 2014
Another good suspense/romance, romance/suspense book from Victoria Paige. I liked it but not as much as book one, It's Always Been You. The number of characters and plot twists had me a little dizzy. I love the challenge of (trying) to figure out the plot/who done it. The last 1/3 of the book had the majority of twists and turns. Before all that, I really enjoyed Gabe trying to get back with Beatrice. The POV was 3rd person back and forth Gabe-Beatrice. Gabe's explanation for his 3 year absence was within his internal monologue. He did verbally explain to Bea that he couldn't tell what he had been up to-which was at time brutal and horrific- in the name of his under cover work for our country and the international good. There were a few details that I was looking for at the end-namely....
The characters from It's Always Been You appear in this book too. They are needed-since there is no shortage of bad guys in this one. I felt bad for Nate (a good guy), since Gabe constantly was on the look out for him putting the mmoves on Bea. Nate's going to be the next H, I just know it.
**I also need to go back and read Smoke and Shadows from the Guardians series-there's couple of references from those books too (hint hint).
ARC provided by the author. My review is impartial.
The characters from It's Always Been You appear in this book too. They are needed-since there is no shortage of bad guys in this one. I felt bad for Nate (a good guy), since Gabe constantly was on the look out for him putting the mmoves on Bea. Nate's going to be the next H, I just know it.
**I also need to go back and read Smoke and Shadows from the Guardians series-there's couple of references from those books too (hint hint).
ARC provided by the author. My review is impartial.
January 20, 2018
Always Been Mine is book 2 in the Always series. Although I read book 1 about 4 years ago I remember thinking it was an ok read and that is exactly how I felt about this one. I thought it started out really well and I do love second chance romances but unfortunately overall it fell short for me. I found it long, drawn out and boring at times. Gabe and Beatrice were really hot together and I loved how hard Gabe worked to get her back. Overall this author has potential to me because I would consider another book.
September 6, 2015
**This was an ARC copy given by the author for a honest review**
4.5-5 stars
What a great story! I have to say that things started out rough between Gabe and Beatrice upon his return. While his motives are understandable later they're hard to forgive at first. Combine that with bad guys shooting and doing other stuff that causes issues and Beatrice and Gabe have a lot to deal with.
Beatrice is the daughter of an Admiral who works with the CIA. He's been mostly and absentee father and she resents him for that even while she still wished he'd love her and show some sort of caring for her. Beatrice is a security consultant in Washington, DC (a job her father got her in to) and she's done extremely well in this position.
Gabe is an ex-SEAL and worked with the CIA as an undercover operative. He did his duty for his country and was prepared to do more until he met Beatrice. He was planning to leave his position for her and was actually in the process of doing so when he got bad news that made his priorities change. He had to let Beatrice go because he didn't know if he could come back to her.
Beatrice never wanted to get involved with a military man that was married to his work (too much like her father) but she almost slipped 3 years before (with Gabe). Unfortunately, him choosing his job over her just about broke her and made her even more determined not to get involved with that type of man again. Beatrice is actually just getting past a breakup with a musician (a popular one) and the tabloids are having a field day with it. She's dealing with some issues from that and isn't expecting to run in to Gabe at a charity ball. Beatrice is not interested in talking to Gabe at all and makes her point to him in a very painful way. Gabe allows her this since he knows that he deserves any crap she gives him after what he put her through. Gabe tells her he's done with the work he had to do and he's quit for good. He tells her that he's there for her and isn't willing to take no for an answer but Beatrice isn't willing to give him a chance.
Gabe pretty much starts following Beatrice around, popping up here and there when she might need help or he's trying to get her to talk to him. The attraction between them is hard to deny so eventually there's some physical connections between them but Beatrice is determined not to allow any emotional ones. That doesn't work too well though because they're both seriously emotional about each other. There ends up being some deaths and issues surrounding Beatrice that makes both Gabe and her father worry...especially when it comes out that someone may know that Gabe (under the name he used while undercover) isn't really dead. Gabe has some issues getting Beatrice to accept his protection but soon she gives in. Things are still strained between them though and it takes some time and a lot of determination of Gabe's part to get them back to a relationship. Meanwhile there's a whole big action plot going off with double agents and viral-warfare and much shooting and fighting. It takes some time and a lot of effort but things do get wrapped up nicely and we end the story with Gabe and Beatrice starting their HEA.
I really enjoyed this story. Gabe and Beatrice were great together...they're both such strong characters that they balance each other out well. The story is strong on the action but it never buries the romance plot, the action just kept me well engaged and constantly wondering what will happen next. There are cameos from characters from the fist book in this series as well as from the Guardian's series (also by this author) which I liked. I'd recommend this story. 2 thumbs up. :D
4.5-5 stars
What a great story! I have to say that things started out rough between Gabe and Beatrice upon his return. While his motives are understandable later they're hard to forgive at first. Combine that with bad guys shooting and doing other stuff that causes issues and Beatrice and Gabe have a lot to deal with.
Beatrice is the daughter of an Admiral who works with the CIA. He's been mostly and absentee father and she resents him for that even while she still wished he'd love her and show some sort of caring for her. Beatrice is a security consultant in Washington, DC (a job her father got her in to) and she's done extremely well in this position.
Gabe is an ex-SEAL and worked with the CIA as an undercover operative. He did his duty for his country and was prepared to do more until he met Beatrice. He was planning to leave his position for her and was actually in the process of doing so when he got bad news that made his priorities change. He had to let Beatrice go because he didn't know if he could come back to her.
Beatrice never wanted to get involved with a military man that was married to his work (too much like her father) but she almost slipped 3 years before (with Gabe). Unfortunately, him choosing his job over her just about broke her and made her even more determined not to get involved with that type of man again. Beatrice is actually just getting past a breakup with a musician (a popular one) and the tabloids are having a field day with it. She's dealing with some issues from that and isn't expecting to run in to Gabe at a charity ball. Beatrice is not interested in talking to Gabe at all and makes her point to him in a very painful way. Gabe allows her this since he knows that he deserves any crap she gives him after what he put her through. Gabe tells her he's done with the work he had to do and he's quit for good. He tells her that he's there for her and isn't willing to take no for an answer but Beatrice isn't willing to give him a chance.
Gabe pretty much starts following Beatrice around, popping up here and there when she might need help or he's trying to get her to talk to him. The attraction between them is hard to deny so eventually there's some physical connections between them but Beatrice is determined not to allow any emotional ones. That doesn't work too well though because they're both seriously emotional about each other. There ends up being some deaths and issues surrounding Beatrice that makes both Gabe and her father worry...especially when it comes out that someone may know that Gabe (under the name he used while undercover) isn't really dead. Gabe has some issues getting Beatrice to accept his protection but soon she gives in. Things are still strained between them though and it takes some time and a lot of determination of Gabe's part to get them back to a relationship. Meanwhile there's a whole big action plot going off with double agents and viral-warfare and much shooting and fighting. It takes some time and a lot of effort but things do get wrapped up nicely and we end the story with Gabe and Beatrice starting their HEA.
I really enjoyed this story. Gabe and Beatrice were great together...they're both such strong characters that they balance each other out well. The story is strong on the action but it never buries the romance plot, the action just kept me well engaged and constantly wondering what will happen next. There are cameos from characters from the fist book in this series as well as from the Guardian's series (also by this author) which I liked. I'd recommend this story. 2 thumbs up. :D
Read
December 10, 2014DNF @ 77%
The romance side of the story had a lot of potential but the author spends way too much time on the political/intelligence side of the story. If I wanted to read a political thriller I'd have read a political thriller...this is supposed to be a romance. If I'm spending over 40% of the book reading about explanations of various intelligence policy/implementation issues it overshadows the romance part of the story. I needed more time spent on the romance and the rebuilding of the H/h relationship than you defining government agency acronyms and the how to's of clandestine/covert operations.
The author has a very Kristen Ashley feel to her books in the sense that the stories are all very similar (I read all the books in her previous series) and she uses stock characters. There is no character development and they are all pretty much written the same way. Not that I have a problem with that, however, if you're going to do that you really need to wow me with the romance. She just missed the mark. Maybe tone down all the politics and focus more on the romance.
Lastly, I don't like how she uses life or death situations to force the characters to accept how they feel about each other. It's a cop out and she uses it in every one of her books. I need them to work out their feelings/issues not be thrown into life or death situations that causes them to have an epiphany about how they feel about each other.
Think this will be my last time reading her books.
The romance side of the story had a lot of potential but the author spends way too much time on the political/intelligence side of the story. If I wanted to read a political thriller I'd have read a political thriller...this is supposed to be a romance. If I'm spending over 40% of the book reading about explanations of various intelligence policy/implementation issues it overshadows the romance part of the story. I needed more time spent on the romance and the rebuilding of the H/h relationship than you defining government agency acronyms and the how to's of clandestine/covert operations.
The author has a very Kristen Ashley feel to her books in the sense that the stories are all very similar (I read all the books in her previous series) and she uses stock characters. There is no character development and they are all pretty much written the same way. Not that I have a problem with that, however, if you're going to do that you really need to wow me with the romance. She just missed the mark. Maybe tone down all the politics and focus more on the romance.
Lastly, I don't like how she uses life or death situations to force the characters to accept how they feel about each other. It's a cop out and she uses it in every one of her books. I need them to work out their feelings/issues not be thrown into life or death situations that causes them to have an epiphany about how they feel about each other.
Think this will be my last time reading her books.
September 3, 2015
3.5 Suspenseful stars.
Gabe was awesome. After I started liking him again that is. At first he just made me mad. Then Bea made me mad. Took a while to like the characters at all.
This had a rocky start and I hung in there. I felt that things just had to play out a certain way to make the love between Bea and Gabe believable. It worked in the end.
Way more mystery and suspense than romance. I am in a sappy mood so if I had read this at a different time in my life I'd probably have loved it more.
Gabe was awesome. After I started liking him again that is. At first he just made me mad. Then Bea made me mad. Took a while to like the characters at all.
This had a rocky start and I hung in there. I felt that things just had to play out a certain way to make the love between Bea and Gabe believable. It worked in the end.
Way more mystery and suspense than romance. I am in a sappy mood so if I had read this at a different time in my life I'd probably have loved it more.
November 23, 2014
Arc provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
3 stars.
Just like the first book, this story was much more than just a romance, but had lots of spy-political-gangster-drug trafficking themes entwined into the mix too. This provided a basis for a good storyline and for the most part I wasn’t disappointed.
Beatrice, who we met in book one, is a security consultant and provides work to companies like that owned by Travis (the hero from book one). So we know quite abit about her – namely that she is a strong, independent woman with a hang-up about her father (an Admiral) who has a lot of involvement in both books.
The hero - Gabe, returns ‘home’ 3-4 years after he abruptly ended things with Beatrice. Why did he leave? He had to go undercover as a deadly assassin for the Russian mob, during which time he did unspeakable things. Things he didn’t want Beatrice to know about or be involved in. However the way he left her really hit a nerve, what with Beatrice’s father never being there for her when she was a child, and now Gabe didn’t want her. So she has built up thick walls over the years, guarding her heart from further hurt.
When Gabe returns, professing his love again, apologising for what happened, but with no immediate explanation, Beatrice gives him the big ‘EFF-OFF’. And rightly so. But Gabe isn’t deterred and pursues her hoping she will change her mind. When her current assignment, to organise protection for a Senator’s trip to Columbia, gets complicated and puts her in danger, Gabe and Travis’s boys get involved.
The story progresses from here, with lots of twists, turns, kidnapping, revelations etc which indicate this is much more personal than they thought. I have to say, this was just alittle too convoluted for me (I have a simple mind) and I struggled to keep up. I would have liked more romance if im honest. But credit where it’s due, this is obviously a well thought out plot….so 3 stars.
3 stars.
Just like the first book, this story was much more than just a romance, but had lots of spy-political-gangster-drug trafficking themes entwined into the mix too. This provided a basis for a good storyline and for the most part I wasn’t disappointed.
Beatrice, who we met in book one, is a security consultant and provides work to companies like that owned by Travis (the hero from book one). So we know quite abit about her – namely that she is a strong, independent woman with a hang-up about her father (an Admiral) who has a lot of involvement in both books.
The hero - Gabe, returns ‘home’ 3-4 years after he abruptly ended things with Beatrice. Why did he leave? He had to go undercover as a deadly assassin for the Russian mob, during which time he did unspeakable things. Things he didn’t want Beatrice to know about or be involved in. However the way he left her really hit a nerve, what with Beatrice’s father never being there for her when she was a child, and now Gabe didn’t want her. So she has built up thick walls over the years, guarding her heart from further hurt.
When Gabe returns, professing his love again, apologising for what happened, but with no immediate explanation, Beatrice gives him the big ‘EFF-OFF’. And rightly so. But Gabe isn’t deterred and pursues her hoping she will change her mind. When her current assignment, to organise protection for a Senator’s trip to Columbia, gets complicated and puts her in danger, Gabe and Travis’s boys get involved.
The story progresses from here, with lots of twists, turns, kidnapping, revelations etc which indicate this is much more personal than they thought. I have to say, this was just alittle too convoluted for me (I have a simple mind) and I struggled to keep up. I would have liked more romance if im honest. But credit where it’s due, this is obviously a well thought out plot….so 3 stars.
April 27, 2015
It took me a while to get into this book (10%) - others kept pre-empting it and it was a little slow in the beginning. When I pushed through, I discovered that I liked it and finished in one sitting. The action, the story and the relationship were good. The h did not take him back immediately - he did have to work for it. The H had some issues after having been in deep undercover for a couple of years. I will read others in the series. 3.5 stars.
December 4, 2014
I loved the first book in this series and could not wait for this one! This is a second chance romance for our h Beatrice and H Gabe. Their relationship ended badly the first time but Gabe is determined this time. I love a man groveling! I love these characters and we get to see some of our old friends in this one. If you love romantic suspense books add this to your shelf!
December 7, 2014
She was his light. His prize. His redemption.
4.25+ RATING- Wow. Just finished Always Been Mine by Victoria Paige and can definitely say it was another fast paced, high octave, romantic suspense story! While my overall rating was a bit higher for book one in the Always series (It's Always Been You), that's not a reflection at all on the quality of this second book. The first book in the series happens to feature an amnesia romance which happens to be one of my favorite guilty pleasure story lines. Don't judge!
Always Been Mine had a great mix of everything you could want in a romantic suspense story. The prologue as well as the snapshots sprinkled throughout of Gabes life as Dmitry were both intense and emotional. I'm really glad the author provided some glimpses into Gabes past but didn't do lengthy flashbacks. Sometimes, I find a lot of flip flopping between the present and past to be distracting and I'm glad the author did short snippets instead. It worked perfectly.
"Everything I’ve done for the past three years destroyed the man you knew, except the part that loved you."
One thing that kept running through my mind as I read Always Been Mine is that Victoria Paige can right the hell out of steamy scenes. As an author, I think she gets what I want and delivers. Repeatedly =)
“Please, Gabe, I need it . . .” Her body hummed along the edges of fulfillment and she was greedy enough to demand it. “Harder . . . Oh, please.”
“You got it, babe,” Gabe growled by her ear.“Fuckin’ you until you scream.” Shifting his arms under her thighs, he plowed into her without mercy. Even as the rough wall abraded her back , she didn’t care. Her nerve endings were electric, the current seizing her body until it coalesced into pulsing sensations in her core.
“Gabe!” she screamed as light exploded behind her eyes. She grabbed his hair; he grunted in response and relentlessly pounded into her like a runaway piston. She was raw, full of Gabe, and alive. That was all that mattered.
“Ah, fuck . . . fuck . . .” he groaned, convulsing against her. His arms shook as the spasms hit him. Warmth filled her core, his cum spilling inside her. He uttered a feral sound as she clenched her pussy on his cock.
“Take it all. Take it all, babe . . . ah fuck!”
I enjoyed the alternating points of views. One person I may have wanted to understand more was Beatrices's dad. Although he came around towards the end a bit, he still seemed shady as hell. It always seemed like he had more information than everyone else but wouldn't share. (I thought at one point the author may have been setting up a future story line for him and the girl that got away but I don't see that in the cards).
One of the things I liked most about the book was Gabe. Now I'll admit, he really really fucked up. Totally. But.... he came back and tried to make it right. He didn't give up. He didn't change his mind. Beatrice was his and he wasn't going to accept anything less. I love that kind of hero!
“Take a chance on me, poppy,” Gabe whispered . “Please. I promise to protect you, guard you, and shield you from everything that would harm you until there’s no breath or life left in me."
What kept this from being a five star read for me was the complexity of the suspense portion of the story. I don't mean that it was really complicated but there was a lot going on that was a bit out of the norm when compared with my normal stalker/damsel in distress stories I gravitate towards. Again. Don't judge. CIA operatives, bio-weapons, secret identities, the Black Plane, political intrigue...there was a lot to keep track of. Still, everything came together in the end to make a highly enjoyable story!
I'd recommend Always Been Mine to readers that love romantic suspense stories, special- op type stories, second chance romances, and readers that enjoy a healthy dose of steam with their suspense. This series remains a must read for me and I look forward to what's coming next!
4.25+ RATING- Wow. Just finished Always Been Mine by Victoria Paige and can definitely say it was another fast paced, high octave, romantic suspense story! While my overall rating was a bit higher for book one in the Always series (It's Always Been You), that's not a reflection at all on the quality of this second book. The first book in the series happens to feature an amnesia romance which happens to be one of my favorite guilty pleasure story lines. Don't judge!
Always Been Mine had a great mix of everything you could want in a romantic suspense story. The prologue as well as the snapshots sprinkled throughout of Gabes life as Dmitry were both intense and emotional. I'm really glad the author provided some glimpses into Gabes past but didn't do lengthy flashbacks. Sometimes, I find a lot of flip flopping between the present and past to be distracting and I'm glad the author did short snippets instead. It worked perfectly.
"Everything I’ve done for the past three years destroyed the man you knew, except the part that loved you."
One thing that kept running through my mind as I read Always Been Mine is that Victoria Paige can right the hell out of steamy scenes. As an author, I think she gets what I want and delivers. Repeatedly =)
“Please, Gabe, I need it . . .” Her body hummed along the edges of fulfillment and she was greedy enough to demand it. “Harder . . . Oh, please.”
“You got it, babe,” Gabe growled by her ear.“Fuckin’ you until you scream.” Shifting his arms under her thighs, he plowed into her without mercy. Even as the rough wall abraded her back , she didn’t care. Her nerve endings were electric, the current seizing her body until it coalesced into pulsing sensations in her core.
“Gabe!” she screamed as light exploded behind her eyes. She grabbed his hair; he grunted in response and relentlessly pounded into her like a runaway piston. She was raw, full of Gabe, and alive. That was all that mattered.
“Ah, fuck . . . fuck . . .” he groaned, convulsing against her. His arms shook as the spasms hit him. Warmth filled her core, his cum spilling inside her. He uttered a feral sound as she clenched her pussy on his cock.
“Take it all. Take it all, babe . . . ah fuck!”
I enjoyed the alternating points of views. One person I may have wanted to understand more was Beatrices's dad. Although he came around towards the end a bit, he still seemed shady as hell. It always seemed like he had more information than everyone else but wouldn't share. (I thought at one point the author may have been setting up a future story line for him and the girl that got away but I don't see that in the cards).
One of the things I liked most about the book was Gabe. Now I'll admit, he really really fucked up. Totally. But.... he came back and tried to make it right. He didn't give up. He didn't change his mind. Beatrice was his and he wasn't going to accept anything less. I love that kind of hero!
“Take a chance on me, poppy,” Gabe whispered . “Please. I promise to protect you, guard you, and shield you from everything that would harm you until there’s no breath or life left in me."
What kept this from being a five star read for me was the complexity of the suspense portion of the story. I don't mean that it was really complicated but there was a lot going on that was a bit out of the norm when compared with my normal stalker/damsel in distress stories I gravitate towards. Again. Don't judge. CIA operatives, bio-weapons, secret identities, the Black Plane, political intrigue...there was a lot to keep track of. Still, everything came together in the end to make a highly enjoyable story!
I'd recommend Always Been Mine to readers that love romantic suspense stories, special- op type stories, second chance romances, and readers that enjoy a healthy dose of steam with their suspense. This series remains a must read for me and I look forward to what's coming next!
August 1, 2015
Bloody Brilliant!!
This was by far Victoria Paige’s best book yet. I started this book not sure if I would like it or not. What I did know about the main characters left me with a feeling of “are they really meant for each other?” Beatrice came across as self-centered and spoiled while Gabe seemed bossy but also a bit selfish.
Getting to know Gabe and Bea changed my opinion of them completely. Gabe was a lost soul after his last mission but was determined to win Bea back after the heartbreak he caused her. Bea had been badly hurt by Gabe and didn’t think there was a way to get past his hurtful words and abandonment. Bea thinks that Gabe is exactly like her father and her trust issues stem from having a father like the Admiral who placed his work commitments above family. The Admiral also left her with an alcoholic Mum who could hardly look after herself let alone Bea.
The storyline – Wow it was good. Working out the baddies from the goodies kept me completely engrossed from the beginning to the end. To be honest this was the first book by Ms Paige that I could follow easily without thinking I need to go and watch CNN for 24 hours straight or find some literature on political strategies throughout the world. She explained things thoroughly and I never felt lost. Nervous, anxious and excited yes, but never lost.
The sexy parts were off the charts HOT!!!
The main characters have a believable and realistic approach to how they would work as a couple, compromises would have to be made.
Overall I loved this story and the characters involved, especially the guest appearances. Ms Victoria Paige is one of my favourite authors and I’m glad she gave me the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Always Been Mine.
Love your work My Lovely!!
This was by far Victoria Paige’s best book yet. I started this book not sure if I would like it or not. What I did know about the main characters left me with a feeling of “are they really meant for each other?” Beatrice came across as self-centered and spoiled while Gabe seemed bossy but also a bit selfish.
Getting to know Gabe and Bea changed my opinion of them completely. Gabe was a lost soul after his last mission but was determined to win Bea back after the heartbreak he caused her. Bea had been badly hurt by Gabe and didn’t think there was a way to get past his hurtful words and abandonment. Bea thinks that Gabe is exactly like her father and her trust issues stem from having a father like the Admiral who placed his work commitments above family. The Admiral also left her with an alcoholic Mum who could hardly look after herself let alone Bea.
The storyline – Wow it was good. Working out the baddies from the goodies kept me completely engrossed from the beginning to the end. To be honest this was the first book by Ms Paige that I could follow easily without thinking I need to go and watch CNN for 24 hours straight or find some literature on political strategies throughout the world. She explained things thoroughly and I never felt lost. Nervous, anxious and excited yes, but never lost.
The sexy parts were off the charts HOT!!!
The main characters have a believable and realistic approach to how they would work as a couple, compromises would have to be made.
Overall I loved this story and the characters involved, especially the guest appearances. Ms Victoria Paige is one of my favourite authors and I’m glad she gave me the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Always Been Mine.
Love your work My Lovely!!
Read
February 20, 2023DNF 24%
Wasn’t feeling it 🤷🏻♀️
Wasn’t feeling it 🤷🏻♀️
August 12, 2021
Gabe loved Beatrice. Beatrice loved Gabe. One night broke their relationship in two. That night was the night Gabe choose his job over Bee and told her so in the most horrible way.
Fast forward. He wanted her back. She wanted nothing to do with him. Will they get the second chance he so wanted? Before that could ever happen trust would need to be regained. But his past might not make it happen.
Get ready for such a suspenseful ride to a second chance a love.
Fast forward. He wanted her back. She wanted nothing to do with him. Will they get the second chance he so wanted? Before that could ever happen trust would need to be regained. But his past might not make it happen.
Get ready for such a suspenseful ride to a second chance a love.
August 15, 2023
I put this down a little while ago and honestly, I don't remember enough about it to know why I put it down. Seems like it got boring around the time the two hooked up again, which seems to just be my life these days. I do remember liking the sex positivity in the book, but seems like it developed into a pretty "meh" story once the initial "You left me, I hate you" was done.
September 16, 2015
How do I write about this book without fangirling?
I don't. OMG I LOVE YOU VICTORIA PAIGE AND I LOVE ALL YOUR BOOKS!!!!!!!!
Now that THAT is out of my system, I can be serious. This is my new favorite VP book. It had everything I love about books: romance, HOT sex, action, hot military-type guys, cameos of beloved characters from other books of hers, surprises and twists, and a really terrific story that makes it difficult to put down.
She must research things to death, because the plot is SO smart and detailed. I found myself discussing various guns with my teen son who loves military video games. He was impressed with VP's knowledge. My hubby is a computer genius and every time I asked him if something in this book, technology-wise, was a thing, he said yes. I'm thinking the biological virus MIGHT be made up, but I didn't really want to know, so I left that alone. It would scare me lifeless if it was real. So I'll just go on believing it's made up, truth or not.
I now have a short list of TBRA (to be read aloud) books to read to my hubby. We're finishing up the Fifty Shades trilogy and next up is everything VP. She has a new book coming very soon and I can't wait to get my fangirl hands on it!
A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
_______________________
Re-read done aloud to hubby and completed on September 14, 2015. I've already said everything that needed to be said in my prior solo review, and will just add that my hubby loves the suspense that Victoria Paige peppers throughout her books. The third book in this series is now available and we read the first chapter last night. It's quite a bit lighter and VERY funny. Snort. So, read on! With every single book she writes, there's just more to love about her words. Smut for smart girls! Yay!
I don't. OMG I LOVE YOU VICTORIA PAIGE AND I LOVE ALL YOUR BOOKS!!!!!!!!
Now that THAT is out of my system, I can be serious. This is my new favorite VP book. It had everything I love about books: romance, HOT sex, action, hot military-type guys, cameos of beloved characters from other books of hers, surprises and twists, and a really terrific story that makes it difficult to put down.
She must research things to death, because the plot is SO smart and detailed. I found myself discussing various guns with my teen son who loves military video games. He was impressed with VP's knowledge. My hubby is a computer genius and every time I asked him if something in this book, technology-wise, was a thing, he said yes. I'm thinking the biological virus MIGHT be made up, but I didn't really want to know, so I left that alone. It would scare me lifeless if it was real. So I'll just go on believing it's made up, truth or not.
I now have a short list of TBRA (to be read aloud) books to read to my hubby. We're finishing up the Fifty Shades trilogy and next up is everything VP. She has a new book coming very soon and I can't wait to get my fangirl hands on it!
A copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
_______________________
Re-read done aloud to hubby and completed on September 14, 2015. I've already said everything that needed to be said in my prior solo review, and will just add that my hubby loves the suspense that Victoria Paige peppers throughout her books. The third book in this series is now available and we read the first chapter last night. It's quite a bit lighter and VERY funny. Snort. So, read on! With every single book she writes, there's just more to love about her words. Smut for smart girls! Yay!
December 5, 2014
4-5 stars.
Advanced copy received for honest review.
Some spoilers.
The premise of this book was 50% right up my alley and 50% not my typical genre. I liken these books to a fabulous date movie. Whether you and your guy are in to action/suspense and/or romance with some definite steam, you get it all.
I wasn't sure what to think when I first started Always Been Mine. The second chance love story grabbed me right away. I loved Gabe almost immediately. I knew there must be a really good reason he changed on a dime. Still, I completely understood Bee's reservations. Terribly hurtful words and 3 years had passed!!!! He couldn't expect to find open arms. But their first "reunion" was upsetting for me. I love a strong heroine, but it seemed a bit vindictive. On the flip side, she was so hurt. Could Bee grow on me after that? The answer is absolutely! Watching her walls come down and opening herself up to Gabe was great. Where I first was hesitant, I became completely sucked in to the love story, the reunion and the action filled scenes that put our lovers in peril. There was a family moment that made me cry. Friends that made me smile. Declarations that made me swoon. A healing love story that touched my heart. The espionage aspects of the story were sometimes over my head, but that is a reader issue as I am clueless in that arena. It actually was a very exciting element to the story, kept you thinking and on your toes.
Thank you to Victoria Paige for giving me the gift of her work in advanced and for sharing her "book friends" with me. They are as real to me as they are to you. :)
And just as an aside, considering a silver fox story or novella, would not go unappreciated.
#benporterhea
Advanced copy received for honest review.
Some spoilers.
The premise of this book was 50% right up my alley and 50% not my typical genre. I liken these books to a fabulous date movie. Whether you and your guy are in to action/suspense and/or romance with some definite steam, you get it all.
I wasn't sure what to think when I first started Always Been Mine. The second chance love story grabbed me right away. I loved Gabe almost immediately. I knew there must be a really good reason he changed on a dime. Still, I completely understood Bee's reservations. Terribly hurtful words and 3 years had passed!!!! He couldn't expect to find open arms. But their first "reunion" was upsetting for me. I love a strong heroine, but it seemed a bit vindictive. On the flip side, she was so hurt. Could Bee grow on me after that? The answer is absolutely! Watching her walls come down and opening herself up to Gabe was great. Where I first was hesitant, I became completely sucked in to the love story, the reunion and the action filled scenes that put our lovers in peril. There was a family moment that made me cry. Friends that made me smile. Declarations that made me swoon. A healing love story that touched my heart. The espionage aspects of the story were sometimes over my head, but that is a reader issue as I am clueless in that arena. It actually was a very exciting element to the story, kept you thinking and on your toes.
Thank you to Victoria Paige for giving me the gift of her work in advanced and for sharing her "book friends" with me. They are as real to me as they are to you. :)
And just as an aside, considering a silver fox story or novella, would not go unappreciated.
#benporterhea
December 9, 2014
ARC kindly provided by author in return for an honest review
I have been desperately waiting for Bee’s (and I was hoping Gabe’s) story since reading “It’s always been you” and I was so excited when Victoria said it was Gabe and they will get their second chance.
This book is technically a standalone but don’t miss out on reading the first book it’s amazing and adds to the experience of this one.
Bee and Gabe’s book did not disappoint, I fell in love with Bee and Gabe and felt for everything they had to go through to get their HEA. I was pulled into the story and strapped myself in for the ride and held on tight until the end.
What I love about Victoria’s books is that they are thinking books the plot is as big a character as the MC's, drawing you into the suspense. The heroes are deliciously alpha and heroines are kickass!!
I love romance it’s my chocolate and I love lots of different chocolate but this book was one of my favourite kind …a milk chocolate shell, with a centre full of creamy hazelnut chocolate praline and a hard macadamia nut in the middle. YUM!!
I have been desperately waiting for Bee’s (and I was hoping Gabe’s) story since reading “It’s always been you” and I was so excited when Victoria said it was Gabe and they will get their second chance.
This book is technically a standalone but don’t miss out on reading the first book it’s amazing and adds to the experience of this one.
Bee and Gabe’s book did not disappoint, I fell in love with Bee and Gabe and felt for everything they had to go through to get their HEA. I was pulled into the story and strapped myself in for the ride and held on tight until the end.
What I love about Victoria’s books is that they are thinking books the plot is as big a character as the MC's, drawing you into the suspense. The heroes are deliciously alpha and heroines are kickass!!
I love romance it’s my chocolate and I love lots of different chocolate but this book was one of my favourite kind …a milk chocolate shell, with a centre full of creamy hazelnut chocolate praline and a hard macadamia nut in the middle. YUM!!
November 25, 2014
After reading It's Always Been You I wasn't too sure about Beatrice, she did not come across as the kind of heroine I would love but knew Victoria Paige would not disappoint so dived into this and did not come up for air.
I LOVE:
A second chance romance
A bloody good grovel
A hot alpha male that will do anything for his girl
A heroine that knows her own mind and takes no crap
A strong romantic suspense
Holy cramoly, I got this in spades!! There was a strong suspense/intrigue plot throughout that kept me guessing and totally enthralled in the story, yet running thought was a fabulous love story. Man oh man Gabe had to work for his forgiveness. Bea was not a pushover (and once you get her back story you understand why). I really don't want to give anything away, so no spoilers here, although I will say that I loved revisiting with characters from the first book.
A totally awesome read, I bloody loved it.
ARC given by the author for review, thank you Victoria for letting me read and review this in advance. It. Was. Brilliant.
I LOVE:
A second chance romance
A bloody good grovel
A hot alpha male that will do anything for his girl
A heroine that knows her own mind and takes no crap
A strong romantic suspense
Holy cramoly, I got this in spades!! There was a strong suspense/intrigue plot throughout that kept me guessing and totally enthralled in the story, yet running thought was a fabulous love story. Man oh man Gabe had to work for his forgiveness. Bea was not a pushover (and once you get her back story you understand why). I really don't want to give anything away, so no spoilers here, although I will say that I loved revisiting with characters from the first book.
A totally awesome read, I bloody loved it.
ARC given by the author for review, thank you Victoria for letting me read and review this in advance. It. Was. Brilliant.
February 20, 2024
If this was a military/ action book it would easily be 5 stars, as the side mafia / security plot was 🤌 as it is in all her books i'm always amazed how she writes such intricate plots that are sooo different in all her books.
Butttt the romance completely ruined it, poppy and gabe going back and forth aimlessly then getting together at 40% was pretty underwhelming and annoying
Butttt the romance completely ruined it, poppy and gabe going back and forth aimlessly then getting together at 40% was pretty underwhelming and annoying
March 5, 2015
Unfortunately, I didn't love this book as much as I did the first one :/
Read
March 26, 2025Not for me, both not celibate during seperation and on page scene where he alomost sleeps with ow
December 29, 2014
Brilliant story. Loved every minute of reading.
July 28, 2023
dnf around chapter 8
September 2, 2016
He never forgot his love…
This is the second book in the Always series that can be read as a stand-alone but having read the previous book will enhance the reading.
Beatrice Porter is the daughter of an Admiral and has inherited his talents; she coordinates security for important people. Years ago she fell in love with a Navy Seal breaking her rule of falling in love with a man like her father, a man totally dedicated to his job, knowing the damage such intensity of purpose did to her parent’s marriage and the lack of parental interest she was raised with. Her love walked away from her one night after a phone call and broke her heart. She swore never to become involved with such a man again. But when he returns as much as seeing him angers her she finds that the deep feelings she had for him are still alive. He wants a second chance and that she won’t allow.
Gabriel (Gabe) Sullivan is a former Navy Seal who has been undercover as an assassin for the Russian mob for the past three years. Not knowing if he would return from the mission he cast off the woman he loved in such a way that he earned her enmity. The things that he had to do changed him. He became a ruthless emotionless man to get the things done that needed to be done but deep within Beatrice’s memory kept him tethered. The memory of their love was a light in his darkness keeping him from totally losing himself and he is now fighting his way back to being human and getting Beatrice back.
These are two great strong and compelling characters, Alphas of different sexes. I loved how Beatrice stands up for herself and challenges Gabe. Yet there is a softer side to her that can be seen in her wondering what happened to him and wanting to know but then not wanting to know for it will make her vulnerable to him. She doesn’t want to care but can’t help herself from doing so. She is also as bad-ass as he is, the perfect complement to our hero, and can handle a weapon quite well when necessary.
Gabe is one determined man, he knows he’s not deserving of Beatrice but what they had was everything to him and he’ll fight for them, he needs her in his life for that life to have meaning. There never was or could be anyone else for him. Such depth of love makes this reader swoon. There is much emotional depth to these characters which really makes a story for me. I loved the dog in this story and the way our hero cares for his canine friend, that he saved him showed that there was a man who still cared inside after all that he had seen and done, a man worthy of being loved.
This is much more than a second chance romance. The life Gabe had led comes back to haunt him and the things the Admiral is still involved in place Beatrice in serious jeopardy. This author really knows how to write political intrigue with action and suspense that is constantly moving forward with lots of twists and turns that you don’t always see coming. This reader loves to be kept guessing.
The storyline held my attention, character dialogue was engaging and the humor interspersed throughout had me smiling often. I enjoyed seeing the characters from the first book, they melded in perfectly. How this author keeps track of so many moving parts and characters amazed me. There were lots of threads woven in and wrapped up satisfactorily for now. I think that this book was better than the first which I thoroughly enjoyed. I do hope that there will be more stories in this series. Nate really does need to have his story told. This was an excellent addition to the series.
I was very glad to have been provided an ARC to read by the author.
This is the second book in the Always series that can be read as a stand-alone but having read the previous book will enhance the reading.
Beatrice Porter is the daughter of an Admiral and has inherited his talents; she coordinates security for important people. Years ago she fell in love with a Navy Seal breaking her rule of falling in love with a man like her father, a man totally dedicated to his job, knowing the damage such intensity of purpose did to her parent’s marriage and the lack of parental interest she was raised with. Her love walked away from her one night after a phone call and broke her heart. She swore never to become involved with such a man again. But when he returns as much as seeing him angers her she finds that the deep feelings she had for him are still alive. He wants a second chance and that she won’t allow.
Gabriel (Gabe) Sullivan is a former Navy Seal who has been undercover as an assassin for the Russian mob for the past three years. Not knowing if he would return from the mission he cast off the woman he loved in such a way that he earned her enmity. The things that he had to do changed him. He became a ruthless emotionless man to get the things done that needed to be done but deep within Beatrice’s memory kept him tethered. The memory of their love was a light in his darkness keeping him from totally losing himself and he is now fighting his way back to being human and getting Beatrice back.
These are two great strong and compelling characters, Alphas of different sexes. I loved how Beatrice stands up for herself and challenges Gabe. Yet there is a softer side to her that can be seen in her wondering what happened to him and wanting to know but then not wanting to know for it will make her vulnerable to him. She doesn’t want to care but can’t help herself from doing so. She is also as bad-ass as he is, the perfect complement to our hero, and can handle a weapon quite well when necessary.
Gabe is one determined man, he knows he’s not deserving of Beatrice but what they had was everything to him and he’ll fight for them, he needs her in his life for that life to have meaning. There never was or could be anyone else for him. Such depth of love makes this reader swoon. There is much emotional depth to these characters which really makes a story for me. I loved the dog in this story and the way our hero cares for his canine friend, that he saved him showed that there was a man who still cared inside after all that he had seen and done, a man worthy of being loved.
This is much more than a second chance romance. The life Gabe had led comes back to haunt him and the things the Admiral is still involved in place Beatrice in serious jeopardy. This author really knows how to write political intrigue with action and suspense that is constantly moving forward with lots of twists and turns that you don’t always see coming. This reader loves to be kept guessing.
The storyline held my attention, character dialogue was engaging and the humor interspersed throughout had me smiling often. I enjoyed seeing the characters from the first book, they melded in perfectly. How this author keeps track of so many moving parts and characters amazed me. There were lots of threads woven in and wrapped up satisfactorily for now. I think that this book was better than the first which I thoroughly enjoyed. I do hope that there will be more stories in this series. Nate really does need to have his story told. This was an excellent addition to the series.
I was very glad to have been provided an ARC to read by the author.
January 3, 2015
4.5 stars
Beatrice always said she would never fall for a man like her father and live the life her mother did but Gabe changed all that. In a short time, he pursued her hard and even though she tried to fight it, she fell hard for him. Only to have him break her heart and walk away.
Now, Gabe is back and he is not giving up Beatrice again...but the wall she has built around her heart will be hard to break down. Beatrice is determined to move on and leave Gabe in her past but danger around ever corner is forcing her back into his arms and the more time she spends with him, the harder it becomes to protect her heart. With everything on the line, can Beatrice forgive Gabe and give their love another chance?
I loved this book! Beatrice is a strong, passionate, stubborn woman who doesn't give in to Gabe easily. She is a very well written character and Gabe is the perfect match for her. There relationship progresses at a real pace despite all the crazy going on around them and the sex is hot, hot, hot!!
Characters from previous books show up in this one which was great but you don't have to have read those to enjoy this one. This is an action packed story that will suck you in from the first paragraph and won't let you go. The plot twists and turns will keep you guessing right until the end.
My thoughts:
POV alternates between Beatrice and Gabe
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4.5
Level of Romance between characters: 4.5
Passion/Heat level: 5 (chemistry never goes away with these two and they burn up the sheets together, and other places too lol)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4.5 (there is a lot of drama and Gabe has a lot of secrets)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, the story is all wrapped up in the end.
Overall, I loved it and can't wait to see what happens in the next book, and who's story it will be!! Victoria Paige is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! If you haven't read any of her books, you have no idea what amazing stories you are missing!!
I received an ARC of this story from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Beatrice always said she would never fall for a man like her father and live the life her mother did but Gabe changed all that. In a short time, he pursued her hard and even though she tried to fight it, she fell hard for him. Only to have him break her heart and walk away.
Now, Gabe is back and he is not giving up Beatrice again...but the wall she has built around her heart will be hard to break down. Beatrice is determined to move on and leave Gabe in her past but danger around ever corner is forcing her back into his arms and the more time she spends with him, the harder it becomes to protect her heart. With everything on the line, can Beatrice forgive Gabe and give their love another chance?
I loved this book! Beatrice is a strong, passionate, stubborn woman who doesn't give in to Gabe easily. She is a very well written character and Gabe is the perfect match for her. There relationship progresses at a real pace despite all the crazy going on around them and the sex is hot, hot, hot!!
Characters from previous books show up in this one which was great but you don't have to have read those to enjoy this one. This is an action packed story that will suck you in from the first paragraph and won't let you go. The plot twists and turns will keep you guessing right until the end.
My thoughts:
POV alternates between Beatrice and Gabe
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4.5
Level of Romance between characters: 4.5
Passion/Heat level: 5 (chemistry never goes away with these two and they burn up the sheets together, and other places too lol)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4.5 (there is a lot of drama and Gabe has a lot of secrets)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, the story is all wrapped up in the end.
Overall, I loved it and can't wait to see what happens in the next book, and who's story it will be!! Victoria Paige is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! If you haven't read any of her books, you have no idea what amazing stories you are missing!!
I received an ARC of this story from the author in exchange for an honest review.
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