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Meant To Be
It started as a chance encounter on the beach, and ended 24 hours later when they parted to go their separate ways.
Or so they thought.
Actually it was just the beginning.
WHEN LAUREN CANTRELL said goodbye to the guy she had just met on the beach, she had no way of knowing their paths would ever cross again. But fate had another unexpected meeting in store for them—this time in a place where danger was part of the culture and the stakes were life and death.
THE LAST PERSON in the world Rad expected to see at a special ops briefing in Afghanistan is the girl he met at the beach two weeks ago—the one he can’t stop thinking about.
From the sundrenched beaches of Ocean City, Md., to the snowcapped mountains of Afghanistan, this thrilling tale of espionage and intrigue takes readers on a spellbinding journey into the secret lives of our nation’s quiet heroes—and answers the question:
What do you do when the person you most want to protect is the one risking everything to make sure you survive?
MEANT TO BE recounts the dedication of our military, the honor and sacrifice of our soldiers, and a relationship that is tested and sustained by the powerful forces of love, courage and resolve.
Or so they thought.
Actually it was just the beginning.
WHEN LAUREN CANTRELL said goodbye to the guy she had just met on the beach, she had no way of knowing their paths would ever cross again. But fate had another unexpected meeting in store for them—this time in a place where danger was part of the culture and the stakes were life and death.
THE LAST PERSON in the world Rad expected to see at a special ops briefing in Afghanistan is the girl he met at the beach two weeks ago—the one he can’t stop thinking about.
From the sundrenched beaches of Ocean City, Md., to the snowcapped mountains of Afghanistan, this thrilling tale of espionage and intrigue takes readers on a spellbinding journey into the secret lives of our nation’s quiet heroes—and answers the question:
What do you do when the person you most want to protect is the one risking everything to make sure you survive?
MEANT TO BE recounts the dedication of our military, the honor and sacrifice of our soldiers, and a relationship that is tested and sustained by the powerful forces of love, courage and resolve.
305 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2015
196 people are currently reading
971 people want to read
About the author
Jessica James
28 books668 followersJessica James is an award-winning author of suspense, historical fiction, Christian fiction, and military fiction ranging from the Revolutionary War to modern day.
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
November 28, 2017
Wow! Talk about having an impact! This is, I suppose, a military romance. I really hate to label it that, because the level and depth of this novel is so far above and beyond anything I've read for a long time.
Ms. James' coverage of military covert operations is simply terrifying to this military wife. It brings up images no one in their right mind would like to imagine if they have loved ones in the military. This story is brutal, but leaves you unable to stop listening (or reading). She manages to weave hope and love into the story of military patriotism, conviction and desolation.
The two main characters, Lauren and Rad, meet on a beach and have twenty hours together before, unknown to each other, military duty calls them. They separate, never knowing if they will see each other again. Fate and duty throw them together a second time, only to separate them again. Military operations take precedence over everything else. Hardships are endured, wills brought to the breaking point, but the heart of each is still searching for the other. Will they find their way back together before there is nothing left for either to give?
Meant to Be will stay with me for a very long time. Excellent!
I was given this audio book. The opinions are my own.
Ms. James' coverage of military covert operations is simply terrifying to this military wife. It brings up images no one in their right mind would like to imagine if they have loved ones in the military. This story is brutal, but leaves you unable to stop listening (or reading). She manages to weave hope and love into the story of military patriotism, conviction and desolation.
The two main characters, Lauren and Rad, meet on a beach and have twenty hours together before, unknown to each other, military duty calls them. They separate, never knowing if they will see each other again. Fate and duty throw them together a second time, only to separate them again. Military operations take precedence over everything else. Hardships are endured, wills brought to the breaking point, but the heart of each is still searching for the other. Will they find their way back together before there is nothing left for either to give?
Meant to Be will stay with me for a very long time. Excellent!
I was given this audio book. The opinions are my own.
April 19, 2022
Puedes encontrar esta reseña en español al final.
This story has not worked for me for various reasons.
The first is that the author tell us a lot but shows us nothing. If I remember correctly, the first 33% of the book takes place in a single day. 24 hours, give or take. The MCs spend all that time together, I guess, to strengthen that "love at first sight" thing that will give the romance fuel to last the rest of the story. They will meet again only two more times: a few minutes in an unrealistic situation (and clearly for melodramatic purposes) and at the very end of the story. And during all that time they spend together at the beginning, there is no connection between them. They go, they eat, they laugh, they cry, but nothing comes alive.
My second problem has been the coincidences (for melodramatic purposes only). It is a very common resource in this genre that seems dishonest to me. The only way for the author to postpone the meeting again and again is by throwing herself into the arms of Ms. Chance and manipulating both her characters and her readers to prolong the reunion with impossible situations that are not adequately explained. Leaks to very precise people that are going to cause a lot of damage (leaks that are unrealistic and undefined) is a hackneyed trick. Add a couple of eventualities and you have half your story written.
My third problem has been that, even though the author makes her characters go through a real hell, both physically and psychologically, she does not show us any type of aftermath or trauma. Beyond the physical wounds that heal over time, there are the mental ones that give background to the characters, the ones that humanize them, make them more real and allow us to empathize with them. And here there has been none of this. So, that happy ending that comes late and quickly, it is extremely implausible too. And as soon as it seems the reunion is going to happen, the author comes up with another eventuality to throw at her characters (as if there had not been enough) to delay it again. And without any subtlety whatsoever. It was clear who was who to everyone except to the hero.
Lots of melodrama and lots of awful coincidences.
***
Esta historia no ha funcionado para mí por diversos motivos.
El primero es que la autora no consigue mostrar nada. Todo lo cuenta de una manera que no traspasa la página. Si no recuerdo mal, el primer 33% del libro se desarrolla en un solo día. 24 horas mal contadas. Los protagonistas pasan juntos todo ese tiempo, entiendo que para afianzar ese “amor a primera vista” que les dará juego para el resto de la historia. Ya solo volverán a coincidir dos veces más: unos minutos en una situación poco realista (y claramente con fines melodramáticos) y al mismísimo final de la historia. Y durante todo ese tiempo que pasan juntos no hay ningún tipo de conexión entre los personajes. Van, vienen, comen, ríen, lloran, pero nada traspasa la página.
Mi segundo problema han sido las coincidencias con fines melodramáticos. Es un recurso muy habitual en este género que me parece deshonesto. La única manera que tiene la autora de postponer el encuentro es lanzándose a los brazos de doña Casualidad y manipular tanto a sus personajes como a sus lectoras para alargar el reencuentro con situaciones imposibles y que no quedan explicadas adecuadamente. Las filtraciones a personas muy precisas que van a causar mucho daño y que no son realistas son un truco muy manido. Añade un par de eventualidades y ya tienes media historia escrita.
Mi tercer problema ha sido que, a pesar de que la autora hace pasar a sus personajes por un auténtico infierno, tanto física como psicológicamente, no nos muestra ningún tipo de secuelas ni de trauma. Más allá de las heridas físicas que curan con el tiempo están las mentales que son las que le dan fondo a los personajes, las que los humanizan, los hacen más reales y nos dejan empatizar con ellos. Y aquí no ha habido nada de esto. Con lo cual, resulta extremadamente implausible ese final feliz que llega tarde y rápido. Apenas hay reencuentro, la mitad del mismo se pierde en otra eventualidad más que a la autora se le ocurre lanzar a sus personajes (como si no hubiesen habido suficientes) para retrasarlo aún más, y además sin sutileza alguna. Estaba claro quién era quién para todos excepto para el héroe.
Mucho melodrama y mucha coincidencia inoportuna.
This story has not worked for me for various reasons.
The first is that the author tell us a lot but shows us nothing. If I remember correctly, the first 33% of the book takes place in a single day. 24 hours, give or take. The MCs spend all that time together, I guess, to strengthen that "love at first sight" thing that will give the romance fuel to last the rest of the story. They will meet again only two more times: a few minutes in an unrealistic situation (and clearly for melodramatic purposes) and at the very end of the story. And during all that time they spend together at the beginning, there is no connection between them. They go, they eat, they laugh, they cry, but nothing comes alive.
My second problem has been the coincidences (for melodramatic purposes only). It is a very common resource in this genre that seems dishonest to me. The only way for the author to postpone the meeting again and again is by throwing herself into the arms of Ms. Chance and manipulating both her characters and her readers to prolong the reunion with impossible situations that are not adequately explained. Leaks to very precise people that are going to cause a lot of damage (leaks that are unrealistic and undefined) is a hackneyed trick. Add a couple of eventualities and you have half your story written.
My third problem has been that, even though the author makes her characters go through a real hell, both physically and psychologically, she does not show us any type of aftermath or trauma. Beyond the physical wounds that heal over time, there are the mental ones that give background to the characters, the ones that humanize them, make them more real and allow us to empathize with them. And here there has been none of this. So, that happy ending that comes late and quickly, it is extremely implausible too. And as soon as it seems the reunion is going to happen, the author comes up with another eventuality to throw at her characters (as if there had not been enough) to delay it again. And without any subtlety whatsoever. It was clear who was who to everyone except to the hero.
Lots of melodrama and lots of awful coincidences.
***
Esta historia no ha funcionado para mí por diversos motivos.
El primero es que la autora no consigue mostrar nada. Todo lo cuenta de una manera que no traspasa la página. Si no recuerdo mal, el primer 33% del libro se desarrolla en un solo día. 24 horas mal contadas. Los protagonistas pasan juntos todo ese tiempo, entiendo que para afianzar ese “amor a primera vista” que les dará juego para el resto de la historia. Ya solo volverán a coincidir dos veces más: unos minutos en una situación poco realista (y claramente con fines melodramáticos) y al mismísimo final de la historia. Y durante todo ese tiempo que pasan juntos no hay ningún tipo de conexión entre los personajes. Van, vienen, comen, ríen, lloran, pero nada traspasa la página.
Mi segundo problema han sido las coincidencias con fines melodramáticos. Es un recurso muy habitual en este género que me parece deshonesto. La única manera que tiene la autora de postponer el encuentro es lanzándose a los brazos de doña Casualidad y manipular tanto a sus personajes como a sus lectoras para alargar el reencuentro con situaciones imposibles y que no quedan explicadas adecuadamente. Las filtraciones a personas muy precisas que van a causar mucho daño y que no son realistas son un truco muy manido. Añade un par de eventualidades y ya tienes media historia escrita.
Mi tercer problema ha sido que, a pesar de que la autora hace pasar a sus personajes por un auténtico infierno, tanto física como psicológicamente, no nos muestra ningún tipo de secuelas ni de trauma. Más allá de las heridas físicas que curan con el tiempo están las mentales que son las que le dan fondo a los personajes, las que los humanizan, los hacen más reales y nos dejan empatizar con ellos. Y aquí no ha habido nada de esto. Con lo cual, resulta extremadamente implausible ese final feliz que llega tarde y rápido. Apenas hay reencuentro, la mitad del mismo se pierde en otra eventualidad más que a la autora se le ocurre lanzar a sus personajes (como si no hubiesen habido suficientes) para retrasarlo aún más, y además sin sutileza alguna. Estaba claro quién era quién para todos excepto para el héroe.
Mucho melodrama y mucha coincidencia inoportuna.
June 14, 2018
This book broke my heart and then glued it back together again. My eyes are blood shot from crying and a lack of sleep. So good! The feels! Again it just brings things into perspective... Support our troops you guys. I think we get so wrapped up in our busy lives that we forget sometimes to be thankful. This book is incredible. I will not tell you anything else.. Because it stands on its own.. Just read it.
March 9, 2018
I loved this book! It’s a 5-star read. I’m not usually a “romance” reader, but this is so much more than romance. The suspense kept me at the edge of my seat. The action was so real I couldn’t stop reading, and the drama made it so much more intriguing.
I highly recommend Meant To Be to readers of all genres; The writing was perfect; the imagery made me feel as if I was there and the perfect amount of information was given just when needed. I now have another favorite author to follow.
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I highly recommend Meant To Be to readers of all genres; The writing was perfect; the imagery made me feel as if I was there and the perfect amount of information was given just when needed. I now have another favorite author to follow.
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
January 24, 2021
Well first few chapters were slow read and kind of boring to me (I don’t know why! ) but after 50 pages I read at bullet speed ;) . And finished it at 4 a.m. sharp (no kidding).
I like the h(after pg 50). Liked that she is good at her job and not a pity-party. Mostly appreciate the fact that she had her task done without H’s help. Unlike most other h who need help in every step from their male partners!!!!!
Like the story. This is my 1st book of this author but surely not the last.
I like the h(after pg 50). Liked that she is good at her job and not a pity-party. Mostly appreciate the fact that she had her task done without H’s help. Unlike most other h who need help in every step from their male partners!!!!!
Like the story. This is my 1st book of this author but surely not the last.
November 12, 2017
This book kept my interest all the way through. It was a good romance, interesting and inspiring story.
February 8, 2018
A great story line that had me from the start. It is well written with plenty of action, suspense, romance, emotions, and intrigue. The characters are interesting and well developed. I received this book as a gift and voluntarily give this review.
June 10, 2015
Lauren and Rad met by chance on a beach right when the sun was rising but even more weird is that even though they didn't know each other at all, both only had twenty four hours left till they had to be back to their jobs. They both had trouble trusting but for some reason they trusted each other almost on first sight. They didn't know each other at all this they met that morning, but the next twenty four hours would test them both and make each one realize just how love begins.
I fell in love with Lauren almost immediately. She has a tough exterior but inside she is just as emotionally damaged as the rest of us. Lauren just wanted to spend her time by herself in the place she calls home before she leaves the US on the mission of a life time. She never expected to fall for someone she met the day before she leaves but Rad is not just anyone, he is strong, funny, sexy and brings her to places in her heart she has never visited before. Why does she meet him the day before she's leaving?
Rad is instantly attracted to Lauren. He finds her tough exterior heart-warming and wonders where she's been his whole life. Cheesy I know...but this book just gave me all the feels. Rad doesn't know why Lauren hides so much about herself but he knows he can't let her go. Rad keeps Lauren from her quiet reflection when he asks her to spend the day with him. They walk the boardwalk, do running races and Lauren even agrees to meet some of his buddies at a night time bonfire party. By the end of the day, both Rad and Lauren can't believe it's over. They can't believe their time together is ending. But....does fate have other plans?
Once they say goodbye, they both think of the other as they try to go on with their respective lives. Lauren is going into danger and Rad is boarding a plane to who knows where.
Jessica James did such a great job with the main characters in this novel. She also draws you into some of the supporting characters as well. I loved that we got to see Rad through the thoughts of his best friend Wynn. A skilled author, James usually writes historical fiction. I read one of her first novels "Shades of Grey" which was very well received. This novel is a completely different writing style than that one but she still weaves the characters through the ploy effortlessly. A Reader can not help but fall in love with this novel.
An engrossing, page turner this reader just can't seem to stop thinking about, you should download it right now and go read it. Seriously, why are you still here? Five perfect stars from me.
I fell in love with Lauren almost immediately. She has a tough exterior but inside she is just as emotionally damaged as the rest of us. Lauren just wanted to spend her time by herself in the place she calls home before she leaves the US on the mission of a life time. She never expected to fall for someone she met the day before she leaves but Rad is not just anyone, he is strong, funny, sexy and brings her to places in her heart she has never visited before. Why does she meet him the day before she's leaving?
Rad is instantly attracted to Lauren. He finds her tough exterior heart-warming and wonders where she's been his whole life. Cheesy I know...but this book just gave me all the feels. Rad doesn't know why Lauren hides so much about herself but he knows he can't let her go. Rad keeps Lauren from her quiet reflection when he asks her to spend the day with him. They walk the boardwalk, do running races and Lauren even agrees to meet some of his buddies at a night time bonfire party. By the end of the day, both Rad and Lauren can't believe it's over. They can't believe their time together is ending. But....does fate have other plans?
Once they say goodbye, they both think of the other as they try to go on with their respective lives. Lauren is going into danger and Rad is boarding a plane to who knows where.
Jessica James did such a great job with the main characters in this novel. She also draws you into some of the supporting characters as well. I loved that we got to see Rad through the thoughts of his best friend Wynn. A skilled author, James usually writes historical fiction. I read one of her first novels "Shades of Grey" which was very well received. This novel is a completely different writing style than that one but she still weaves the characters through the ploy effortlessly. A Reader can not help but fall in love with this novel.
An engrossing, page turner this reader just can't seem to stop thinking about, you should download it right now and go read it. Seriously, why are you still here? Five perfect stars from me.
June 6, 2015
Author Jessica James is a superb storyteller whose work stands proudly on my "keeper shelf". Writing with stirring patriotism, compassionate intelligence, and a heartfelt sense of true romance, Jessica thoroughly captures the hearts and minds of her readers. While she has specialized in exceptional historical fiction, her first contemporary work, "Meant to Be: A Novel of Honor and Duty", is an equally well-written, thrilling romantic suspense story. A chance meeting on the beach of Ocean City, Maryland would at first seem to be just a brief shared moment of time for Lauren Cantrell and Michael "Rad" Radcliff. Each has their own private agenda, their own duty to serve, and the limited hours they spend in each other's company are very special. They part, not sure if and when they will ever see each other again, but the hand of Fate will have its way. Just a few weeks later, Lauren and Rad are unexpectedly reunited on a top secret military mission to take place in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Lauren is the undercover operative who will lead Rad and his men to their target--one of the most wanted terrorists in the world. Failure is not an option, and the intense emotional connection between Rad and Lauren cannot interfere with their common goal: take down and eliminate one of the greatest threats to world safety. If they succeed, and survive, what will the future hold? Will love find a way to bring them together and keep them together? I have tremendous empathy for all of our armed services members and their families. I greatly appreciate the sacrifices made so that I may enjoy a free way of life here in the United States. Seeing our service members standing so proud in their uniforms makes me want to stand up taller and straighter, shoulders back! The greatest way to honor all of those who have served and sacrificed is to hold your loved ones close to your heart, and live your life in celebration of precious freedom. Make a new memory each day. Whether you gather together with others to observe ceremonial traditions, or you take a moment for quiet reflection, live each day to the fullest and savor the flavors of life. Read to remember. These are all sentiments that I hold dear, and it is very rewarding to find the same deeply-felt patriotism in the storytelling of Jessica James. I highly recommend all of her wonderfully-written and inspiring books, and I know other readers will enjoy adding them to their own "keeper shelf".
Review Copy Gratis Author
Review Copy Gratis Author
February 20, 2018
It was just ok - there were parts I really like and others not so much. The beginning when the H was trying to pick her up on the beach was a little creepy as he wouldn't take NO for an answer. I didn't like that part.
I really like the h as she was intelligent and very good at her job. So many military books make the females helpless but she was able to take care of herself and get her job done.
I was uncomfortable with all of the religious references in the book, it was over the top. I wouldn't read more from this author if they all are that intense about religion.
I really like the h as she was intelligent and very good at her job. So many military books make the females helpless but she was able to take care of herself and get her job done.
I was uncomfortable with all of the religious references in the book, it was over the top. I wouldn't read more from this author if they all are that intense about religion.
June 3, 2019
Well written
But why in the world Lauren couldn't figure out that Rad and the guys were special ops just doesn't make sense. Good book. I'll look for more.
But why in the world Lauren couldn't figure out that Rad and the guys were special ops just doesn't make sense. Good book. I'll look for more.
February 14, 2024
It was too slow yet too fast. somehow I felt the story is empty in between. It was robbed or something.
I loved reading it the beginning, it was a fairytale story, magical but in reality, the end was beautiful too. Though, I am a greedy reader I want to see more of their relationship together in Virginia. How is she gonna be learning to live with him, him helping her through her pain. Like what’s next? This is always my question when a foreshadowing cliffhanger is placed at the end while It’s unnecessary.
But a reader can only wish in situations like these, unless they write the books they want to read, to enjoy their nonexistent creation.
Anyways, I loved the attention to detail in the story, the touch of reality in there. Even when mentioning the politics and the country that controls the lives of soldiers whose only goal is sacrificing their lives to save their people and families while the other side only concern is reputations and what the media is saying, I was like Oh God, true.
During reading the story however I was a little confused about the POVs, e.g when the chp start with Wynn’s then half way through out of a sudden I’m reading Rad’s that is SUPER confusing to me. Also, I didn’t feel like it was necessary to read about the senator, Angela, and Jackie’s POV.
Unfair stuff and leftover and outs where all over making a mess, like Angela ran right out of the hock and nobody questioned her? not even the country? When Jackie really clear that Angie is not doing the right job ethnically, the only consequence was her getting a divorce? Then moved to another person in a blink of an eye. Not fair. The election happened, so? We went through details in things why not this?I wanted to read more about Lauren’s and Wynn’s medical journey a lone or/and with their loved ones. I wanted to see them all as a military family.
Alas. Disappointed I felt. I was robbed.
I loved reading it the beginning, it was a fairytale story, magical but in reality, the end was beautiful too. Though, I am a greedy reader I want to see more of their relationship together in Virginia. How is she gonna be learning to live with him, him helping her through her pain. Like what’s next? This is always my question when a foreshadowing cliffhanger is placed at the end while It’s unnecessary.
But a reader can only wish in situations like these, unless they write the books they want to read, to enjoy their nonexistent creation.
Anyways, I loved the attention to detail in the story, the touch of reality in there. Even when mentioning the politics and the country that controls the lives of soldiers whose only goal is sacrificing their lives to save their people and families while the other side only concern is reputations and what the media is saying, I was like Oh God, true.
During reading the story however I was a little confused about the POVs, e.g when the chp start with Wynn’s then half way through out of a sudden I’m reading Rad’s that is SUPER confusing to me. Also, I didn’t feel like it was necessary to read about the senator, Angela, and Jackie’s POV.
Unfair stuff and leftover and outs where all over making a mess, like Angela ran right out of the hock and nobody questioned her? not even the country? When Jackie really clear that Angie is not doing the right job ethnically, the only consequence was her getting a divorce? Then moved to another person in a blink of an eye. Not fair. The election happened, so? We went through details in things why not this?I wanted to read more about Lauren’s and Wynn’s medical journey a lone or/and with their loved ones. I wanted to see them all as a military family.
Alas. Disappointed I felt. I was robbed.
September 24, 2020
When I finished reading MEANT TO BE , the following words immediately came to my mind: honor, self-sacrifice, endurance, integrity, compassion, and love. The novel is a love story. Not only is it a romantic love story, but it is also a story of brave young men and women who love their country and are willing to sacrifice their lives for others.
Rad and Lauren, the two main characters, meet at sunrise on a beach in Ocean City, Maryland. They spend a whole day together doing fun things along the Boardwalk and sharing ideas but not last names or occupations. We learn that Lauren's parents had been on Flight 77, which hit the Pentagon on September 11th. During the day, Lauren takes a private phone call that reveals she is involved in dangerous undercover work in Pakistan. We realize that her parents' death is the reason for her work. In the evening, Rad invites Lauren to meet his buddies at a party on the beach. He asks her not to let his friends know that they had just met. Lauren is impressed with his friends and their girl friends. She realizes that the group has a great deal of compassion for each other and a willingness to help each other. She wonders about their work and decides that maybe they are a SWAT team of some sort. Finally, their time is up and they must say good-bye so that they will not miss their flights. Neither knows where the other is going.
In Part II of the novel, Rad and Lauren and Rad's buddies have a surprised meeting in Afghanistan. Beginning here to the end of the novel, there is intense and emotional excitement. I could not stop reading. When I finished the novel, I wanted to stand up, cheer, and sing "God Bless American."
Rad and Lauren, the two main characters, meet at sunrise on a beach in Ocean City, Maryland. They spend a whole day together doing fun things along the Boardwalk and sharing ideas but not last names or occupations. We learn that Lauren's parents had been on Flight 77, which hit the Pentagon on September 11th. During the day, Lauren takes a private phone call that reveals she is involved in dangerous undercover work in Pakistan. We realize that her parents' death is the reason for her work. In the evening, Rad invites Lauren to meet his buddies at a party on the beach. He asks her not to let his friends know that they had just met. Lauren is impressed with his friends and their girl friends. She realizes that the group has a great deal of compassion for each other and a willingness to help each other. She wonders about their work and decides that maybe they are a SWAT team of some sort. Finally, their time is up and they must say good-bye so that they will not miss their flights. Neither knows where the other is going.
In Part II of the novel, Rad and Lauren and Rad's buddies have a surprised meeting in Afghanistan. Beginning here to the end of the novel, there is intense and emotional excitement. I could not stop reading. When I finished the novel, I wanted to stand up, cheer, and sing "God Bless American."
November 16, 2017
OMG!!! This book was wow.just.wow! Lauren was enjoying her last day of R&R in Ocean City when she meets 'Rad'. They have instant chemistry and the ensuing 24 hrs together was incredible...there was no smexy time, except for some kissing as they say goodbye...but, guess what? The chemistry between the two was so intense that it was not missed. We learn that Rad had an ex-fiance, who dumped him for a rich and powerful senator...and she just happens to be a reporter for CNN...hmmm. The next day, Lauren is back at her job...turns out that she is a CIA operative who is imbedded in a Pakistani village watching an Alkaida leader for over a year. Jump to Rad's POV and realize that he is the leader of a Special Ops team who has been assigned to take out said leader. Lauren and Rad reunite, sort of, when she arrives at Base to share her intel with the team. There is no denying their bond and Rad blurts out that he loves Lauren...but they each have a job to do.
Enter the she-devil, aka ex-fiance, trying to dig up a story. Here is where the book really takes off! Not giving away anything further...this book was well written...the author did a fantastic job describing the settings where you could visualize the terrorist compound. There are bad guys, politicians doing what they do best ;-), power hungry reporter, and the good guys/girls doing what they can for the good of the country. After some gut wrenching chapters, we finally get an HEA. So glad that I took a chance on this book...totally worth it.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Enter the she-devil, aka ex-fiance, trying to dig up a story. Here is where the book really takes off! Not giving away anything further...this book was well written...the author did a fantastic job describing the settings where you could visualize the terrorist compound. There are bad guys, politicians doing what they do best ;-), power hungry reporter, and the good guys/girls doing what they can for the good of the country. After some gut wrenching chapters, we finally get an HEA. So glad that I took a chance on this book...totally worth it.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2017
A Great Narrator Sells Audiobooks Best. I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review. I've never known this author prior to this audiobook listen and review and honestly probably wouldn't have purchased this audiobook if the narrator wasn't one of my favorites. I have found that if I find a narrator that I love, I will take a chance on an unknown to me author. Since I knew the narrator and already love her work, I was happy to listen and review this audiobook and was happy to find a great CLEAN Military Romance. Now that I've found Jessica James and her excellent writing skills, I will be keeping my eye out for more of her work and hope to find her audiobooks are narrated by a great narrator. I've listened and reviewed too many not so great authors and when the narrators are sub-par, it just gets worse so that I'm not as eager to listen and review just anything any longer. Sometimes a great narrator can even make an okay writing job sound great and still be enjoyable, but sometimes nothing can make it better. This audiobook was both great writing and great narration and very enjoyable. I highly recommend this audiobook.
November 10, 2017
This book is my first Jessica James listen, and I can tell you, I will be watching for her future releases. Romantic suspense at its best, this high action, military based story will keep you on the edge of your seat. While the story focuses around the couple, Rad and Lauren, there are many well developed characters and subplots happening too. Over and above the top secret mission Rad is leading, there is also stories of social climbing, homeland security, and the personal lives of military soldiers and their significant others. Seeing the actions of Rad's ex, Angela and the way she disregarded the lives of all involved shows how tainting things in the media can change the outcome of the lives of others. I also loved the camaraderie of the men both in the field and at home. Throughout this book, you hear the true meaning of patriotism and dedication and it will bring you a heart warming feeling.
Stella Bloom is an excellent narrator, she always brings out the best in a story. Her ability to give both male and female narration seamlessly makes the performance come to life and makes the listener invested in the outcome. She is perfect for the is book!
Stella Bloom is an excellent narrator, she always brings out the best in a story. Her ability to give both male and female narration seamlessly makes the performance come to life and makes the listener invested in the outcome. She is perfect for the is book!
January 20, 2022
Phenomenal book!
I absolutely loved this book! It starts off in Ocean City, Maryland, several hours from where I grew up, so I spent many happy days on this beach. Reading the names of the businesses on the boardwalk in this story was a thrill and brought me the joy of precious memories from years ago. Thank you, Jessica James!
Trigger warning- there are vivid war scenes when the story shifts to the Middle East. However, this story is brilliantly written with such vivid descriptions that I could both picture myself on the beach as well as in the midst of battle. FYI- The battle scenes and what the characters go through are truly necessary to this story.
I honestly hated for this book to end. Please read this book!
I absolutely loved this book! It starts off in Ocean City, Maryland, several hours from where I grew up, so I spent many happy days on this beach. Reading the names of the businesses on the boardwalk in this story was a thrill and brought me the joy of precious memories from years ago. Thank you, Jessica James!
Trigger warning- there are vivid war scenes when the story shifts to the Middle East. However, this story is brilliantly written with such vivid descriptions that I could both picture myself on the beach as well as in the midst of battle. FYI- The battle scenes and what the characters go through are truly necessary to this story.
I honestly hated for this book to end. Please read this book!
November 9, 2017
I received this audiobook free for an honest review. OH.... MY.... GOSH!!!! This book was excellent. The author wrote a quality story with distinctive characters. There were all the ingredients for an awesome story. Something that you would see on the big screen. I, literally, couldn't put this book down. I was almost late for work because I was up so late and didn't want to get out of the car in the morning so I could finish it. The narrator did an excellent job with each of the characters and portrayed each personality with finesse. Loved this book and will look for more by Jessica James.
December 15, 2017
The "War Against Terror" isn't just a catch phrase for some people. It is a fight they are still having, every day of their live, to ensure that those that came before are honored, those that are to come are free and those that never returned : did not sacrifice for nothing.
War means soldiers, but this story shows that soldiers are ineffective, without those feeding surveillance and information. Those willing to sacrifice everything, including their own lives and freedom, to aid the cause.
Yes I enjoyed this story, and my heart goes out to those that are fighting for a free society.
War means soldiers, but this story shows that soldiers are ineffective, without those feeding surveillance and information. Those willing to sacrifice everything, including their own lives and freedom, to aid the cause.
Yes I enjoyed this story, and my heart goes out to those that are fighting for a free society.
April 23, 2019
I have read other Jessica James novels and loved then , so I was looking forward to this one as well! It's a good read and very well-written. HOWEVER, since Amazon had classed it as a Christian novel, that was what I expected it to be - - and it definitely feel short in that "Christian" labeling!! The foul language {even though some would say "but that's how these Special Forces guys talk, especially when confronted with the all the dangers they encounter") was offensive to me. Crude and foul language is not synonymous with Christ-like speech. Thus, my reason for giving this book a 4.. Delete the foul language and I would have rated it a 5 gladly!
December 1, 2017
A rollercoaster of emotions in a book that you can’t put down until the end. Rad and Lauren have only shared a day together but they feel as they’ve known each other forever. When they say goodbye and go their separate ways they don’t know if they will meet again. But can they have a future together when they have to face a very dangerous situation due to their country’s duty? A very emotional story about our men and women in the military working for our country.
I received a free copy of this book by AXP authors and I voluntarily review it
I received a free copy of this book by AXP authors and I voluntarily review it
March 4, 2018
High on the romance, action, suspense. Very clean (no sex) and only a few swear words, mostly with apologies. The story held my attention. You have to believe in fate to get by the very big coincidence of meeting someone randomly and then running into them again a few days later halfway around the world. I liked the characters, flaws and all. I was really rooting for their HEA, even though the ending seemed a bit hurried.
January 25, 2022
What a great story line! Lauren and Rad meet by chance, spend the day together, then each leaves for an assignment, not knowing that they will be working in the same area. Rad's ex is a piece of work, not caring who she puts in danger as long as she can get a story out of it, without knowing or caring about all the facts. This story has action, suspense, romance, danger and intrigue. Really liked getting to know Lauren, Rad and Rad's team, good ending too.
March 8, 2022
wonderful story
The first part was devoted to developing the characters. Middle story was more about developing the dedication of the people behind the scenes fighting to keep us,as a nation, safe. Also included was some comments on how we tend to take for granite what we as Americans have. The final part of the story was about the strength of love. I thought it was very well developed. It was a clean read.
The first part was devoted to developing the characters. Middle story was more about developing the dedication of the people behind the scenes fighting to keep us,as a nation, safe. Also included was some comments on how we tend to take for granite what we as Americans have. The final part of the story was about the strength of love. I thought it was very well developed. It was a clean read.
May 19, 2023
There are no words to adequately describe this book. Insight to military missions, Afghani warfare, commitment, integrity, perseverance, and the affect all this has on the personal life of those who fight for our freedom. A book about strong men and stronger women. There is levity, laughter, and sacrifice beyond my comprehension. I will think deeply about this book, and will definitely read it again.
December 1, 2017
Wow. What a great read. This is the first book I have read by Jessica James, and it won't be the last. Suspense, military, thriller, gut wrenching. This is told in both points of view so clearly you are right there with them. I am so thrilled I had the opportunity to review. I volunteered and would do so again in a second. Thank you Jessica James!
July 17, 2018
Chance meeting, a first name given, then they return to their jobs. To find they are again connected to a special ops mission, were life is on the line.
The author pulls us In, with a good description of the military, and jobs they we’re doing. Would another chance be for them, decisions to be made. Intriguing, well flowing plot, of a brief moment to fall in love.
The author pulls us In, with a good description of the military, and jobs they we’re doing. Would another chance be for them, decisions to be made. Intriguing, well flowing plot, of a brief moment to fall in love.
January 19, 2022
Gripping❣️ Edge of your seat thriller❣️ Decidedly binge-worthy❣️Can hardly wait to read the next story🐿️
However, would have been an excellent 6* read if it hadn't been SPOILED for me by the author's abuse of Almighty GOD's Name and His word *Holy*. This is blasphemy and is NEVER acceptable. Minus 1*
I'm looking forward to reading future stories - without Blasphemy, please
However, would have been an excellent 6* read if it hadn't been SPOILED for me by the author's abuse of Almighty GOD's Name and His word *Holy*. This is blasphemy and is NEVER acceptable. Minus 1*
I'm looking forward to reading future stories - without Blasphemy, please
September 2, 2023
Such an awesome book!
This book drew me in from the very beginning. It was full of action as well as a wonderful love story. Jessica James is such a gifted author! Everything I have read by her so far has been excellent. I plan to keep reading her books till I have read them all!
This book drew me in from the very beginning. It was full of action as well as a wonderful love story. Jessica James is such a gifted author! Everything I have read by her so far has been excellent. I plan to keep reading her books till I have read them all!
November 13, 2017
A great read! Jessica knows how to write a good book. The only thing that bothered me was that there were a few cuss words, but for the most part it was a pretty clean book. The story was good and it was hard to put down.
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