What do you think?
Rate this book
Coming Home #5
It's Always Been You
"Jessica Scott is an exciting new voice in romantic fiction who bursts upon the scene with an unputdownable debut novel!"
--Robyn Carr, New York Times bestselling author on Because of You
She plays by the rules . . .
Captain Ben Teague is many a tough soldier, a loyal friend, and a bona fide smart-ass. He doesn't have much tolerance for BS, which is why he's mad as hell when a trusted colleague and mentor is brought up on charges that can't possibly be true. He's even more frustrated with by-the-book lawyer Major Olivia Hale. But there's something simmering beneath her icy reserve--and Ben just can't resist turning up the heat . . .
. . . and he's determined to break them
The only thing riskier than mixing business with pleasure is enjoying it . . . and Olivia can't resist locking horns--and lips--with Ben. He's got more compassion in his little finger than any commander she's ever met, a fact that makes him a better leader than he realizes. But when the case that brought them together awakens demons from Olivia's past, she will have to choose between following orders--or her heart . . .
--Robyn Carr, New York Times bestselling author on Because of You
She plays by the rules . . .
Captain Ben Teague is many a tough soldier, a loyal friend, and a bona fide smart-ass. He doesn't have much tolerance for BS, which is why he's mad as hell when a trusted colleague and mentor is brought up on charges that can't possibly be true. He's even more frustrated with by-the-book lawyer Major Olivia Hale. But there's something simmering beneath her icy reserve--and Ben just can't resist turning up the heat . . .
. . . and he's determined to break them
The only thing riskier than mixing business with pleasure is enjoying it . . . and Olivia can't resist locking horns--and lips--with Ben. He's got more compassion in his little finger than any commander she's ever met, a fact that makes him a better leader than he realizes. But when the case that brought them together awakens demons from Olivia's past, she will have to choose between following orders--or her heart . . .
332 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 31, 2015
47 people are currently reading
3802 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Scott
34 books1,284 followersSign up for Jessica’s newsletter https://jessicascott.net/subscribe/
Jessica Scott Jessica Scott is a USA Today bestselling American author of more than 20 novels, including Because of You which launched Loveswepts Digital Imprint in 2011 as well as Homefront, and Before I Fall. She is an Army veteran, a veteran of the Iraq war, the mother of two daughters, a small zoo consisting of too many cats, dogs and the occasional domesticated rodent, and wife to a retired NCO.
Her novels comes from her personal experiences as a soldier, a mother, and an army wife and often explores themes of family, the legacy of war, challenges of military life, and includes contemporary military romances, psychological suspense, and nonfiction works.
Follow Jessica
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaScottAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicadscott09/
She's also written for the New York Times At War Blog, PBS Point of View Regarding War, and IAVA. She deployed to Iraq in 2009 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/New Dawn and has had the honor of serving as a company commander at Fort Hood, Texas twice.
She holds a Ph.D. in Sociology and she's been featured as one of Esquire Magazine's Americans of the Year for 2012.
Author photo courtesy of Buzz Covington Photography
Learn more at https://www.jessicascottbooks.com
Jessica Scott Jessica Scott is a USA Today bestselling American author of more than 20 novels, including Because of You which launched Loveswepts Digital Imprint in 2011 as well as Homefront, and Before I Fall. She is an Army veteran, a veteran of the Iraq war, the mother of two daughters, a small zoo consisting of too many cats, dogs and the occasional domesticated rodent, and wife to a retired NCO.
Her novels comes from her personal experiences as a soldier, a mother, and an army wife and often explores themes of family, the legacy of war, challenges of military life, and includes contemporary military romances, psychological suspense, and nonfiction works.
Follow Jessica
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaScottAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicadscott09/
She's also written for the New York Times At War Blog, PBS Point of View Regarding War, and IAVA. She deployed to Iraq in 2009 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/New Dawn and has had the honor of serving as a company commander at Fort Hood, Texas twice.
She holds a Ph.D. in Sociology and she's been featured as one of Esquire Magazine's Americans of the Year for 2012.
Author photo courtesy of Buzz Covington Photography
Learn more at https://www.jessicascottbooks.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
April 16, 2014
5 'keeping this short because words can't do it justice' stars!!
I wish I could reach through my computer, take you by the shoulders and look you in the eye in hopes you'd be able to see my passion for this series, because I just don't have the words that can explain how brilliant a writer Jessica Scott is.
I love everything about the way she tells a story:
They're exciting, thought provoking, poignant, and inspiring! The plot, the humanity, the heartbreaking reality of how war can destroy a person in ways that IEDs and grenades and rifles can't, and most of all I love the unwavering loyalty these men and women have to our country, to always doing the right thing no matter the cost, and to each other.
I love her honorable heroes:
This was the burden of command: to balance the needs of the army over the needs of the individual. A tightrope he had to walk alone.I love her sassy heroines:
"Wow, you're going all caveman. I'm not sure if I should swoon or wring out my panties."The only thing I don't love:
She doesn't write fast enough!
My sincerest 'thank you' to Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of "It's Always Been You." In return I'm giving them an honest review.
March 31, 2015
Ben Teague had just landed a job he never wanted being in command of men he once fought side by side with. Now he’s charged with the task of weeding out problem soldiers so they don’t take up the valuable training time left before deployment. Ben is torn between the army’s needs and doing what he thinks is right by his men. Ben and Olivia are seemingly at odds at first, or at least that’s how Ben feels, because as legal counsel for the army, Olivia is pushing to remove the problem soldiers. These are men that Ben feels a sense of duty and loyalty to even if they’ve fallen on hard times. But you can’t save everyone especially when you need to prepare for war.
“This was the burden of command: to balance the needs of the army over the needs of the individual. A tightrope he had to walk alone.”
Olivia knows what it feels like to have the army overlook abuse, she’s suffered it personally, and this weighs heavily on her when one of Ben’s men allegedly assaults his teenage daughter, landing her in the hospital. Olivia is determined to protect this soldier’s family from harm. Ben can’t believe his man would ever do such a thing, and because of past events he’s plagued with guilt over the case. Getting down to the truth is a painful experience for both Ben and Olivia, but somehow, even with seemingly opposite interests, they provide professional and emotional support for each other.
Finding a connection and falling in love can be difficult in any circumstance, but you’d think within the realm of military hierarchy it would be worse. Yet, Ben and Olivia’s romance was natural and felt right. There were no huge relationship dramas, just the normal ones you’d expect between two people, each with a damaged past. Even though the circumstances of their jobs put a big strain on them personally they were able to shut some of that out and provide comfort and much needed distraction. I loved that their time together could be playful and fun, profound and emotional, and yet at the same time steamy. Very steamy!
Ben was a character at times, with a smart remark at every turn. His relationship with his First Sergeant Gale Sorren was funny, and I enjoyed their camaraderie. I got quite attached to Sorren while reading; thinking I’d love to know more of Sorren’s story (with a HEA of course) and I just discovered his story will be told in Homecoming. I’m starting it next, and I hope to get a glimpse of Ben and Olivia in the future.
Jessica Scott’s writing is beautiful and she made it easy to connect and sympathize with her characters thoughts and emotions. Their struggles felt very true to real life romantic struggles and I could easily relate. I felt what they felt. I thoroughly enjoyed Ben and Olivia’s romantic journey which was alternately fun and sizzling hot. Their romance was also sweetly moving. A definite recommend.
A copy was kindly provided by Grand Central Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted on The Readers Den.
“This was the burden of command: to balance the needs of the army over the needs of the individual. A tightrope he had to walk alone.”
Olivia knows what it feels like to have the army overlook abuse, she’s suffered it personally, and this weighs heavily on her when one of Ben’s men allegedly assaults his teenage daughter, landing her in the hospital. Olivia is determined to protect this soldier’s family from harm. Ben can’t believe his man would ever do such a thing, and because of past events he’s plagued with guilt over the case. Getting down to the truth is a painful experience for both Ben and Olivia, but somehow, even with seemingly opposite interests, they provide professional and emotional support for each other.
Finding a connection and falling in love can be difficult in any circumstance, but you’d think within the realm of military hierarchy it would be worse. Yet, Ben and Olivia’s romance was natural and felt right. There were no huge relationship dramas, just the normal ones you’d expect between two people, each with a damaged past. Even though the circumstances of their jobs put a big strain on them personally they were able to shut some of that out and provide comfort and much needed distraction. I loved that their time together could be playful and fun, profound and emotional, and yet at the same time steamy. Very steamy!
Ben was a character at times, with a smart remark at every turn. His relationship with his First Sergeant Gale Sorren was funny, and I enjoyed their camaraderie. I got quite attached to Sorren while reading; thinking I’d love to know more of Sorren’s story (with a HEA of course) and I just discovered his story will be told in Homecoming. I’m starting it next, and I hope to get a glimpse of Ben and Olivia in the future.
Jessica Scott’s writing is beautiful and she made it easy to connect and sympathize with her characters thoughts and emotions. Their struggles felt very true to real life romantic struggles and I could easily relate. I felt what they felt. I thoroughly enjoyed Ben and Olivia’s romantic journey which was alternately fun and sizzling hot. Their romance was also sweetly moving. A definite recommend.
A copy was kindly provided by Grand Central Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted on The Readers Den.
April 29, 2014
Rating 3.5 stars
Kudos to Jessica Scott because she is one of those rare authors like Pamela Clare who can make the world and characters they are writing for alive, all because of their own know how of that world. I absolutely adore how she doesn't shy away from depicting the ugly politic filled side of the army, the toll of war in this book.
Captain Ben used to be a believer once, protect his country, do good but now he can't muster up that belief anymore so his being asked to take on the mantle of leadership doesn't go down well with him but he has no choice. I loved this aspect of the book, Ben slowly taking charge and dealing with some major issues, the drug abuse of a colleague and accepting that he couldn't chase away someone else's demons yet giving that guy a chance to have a future. What did frustrate me was his blindness to the fact that a colleague was too far gone and could be guilty of harming his family.
Major Olivia Hale know how to pick her battles, she has been in the army long enough to know how thing work. She has scars from her upbringing and seeing Ben support his man doesn't sit right with her. Honestly, I liked how the book was so realistic in depicting army life, war and even the slow romance, I just wished we could have seen Ben and Olivia together a little more.
Kudos to Jessica Scott because she is one of those rare authors like Pamela Clare who can make the world and characters they are writing for alive, all because of their own know how of that world. I absolutely adore how she doesn't shy away from depicting the ugly politic filled side of the army, the toll of war in this book.
Captain Ben used to be a believer once, protect his country, do good but now he can't muster up that belief anymore so his being asked to take on the mantle of leadership doesn't go down well with him but he has no choice. I loved this aspect of the book, Ben slowly taking charge and dealing with some major issues, the drug abuse of a colleague and accepting that he couldn't chase away someone else's demons yet giving that guy a chance to have a future. What did frustrate me was his blindness to the fact that a colleague was too far gone and could be guilty of harming his family.
Major Olivia Hale know how to pick her battles, she has been in the army long enough to know how thing work. She has scars from her upbringing and seeing Ben support his man doesn't sit right with her. Honestly, I liked how the book was so realistic in depicting army life, war and even the slow romance, I just wished we could have seen Ben and Olivia together a little more.
July 9, 2018
Pacing is even slower than in previous books. No mention of the guys from the beginning of the series save for Reza. And while the situation with Escoberra wasn't 100% what it looked like, it was still pretty standard stuff. (I liked how Army Wives handled this situation more.)
And I really didn't like Olivia telling Ben he couldn't let his past with Escoberra cloud his judgement when she did the exact same thing.
And I really didn't like Olivia telling Ben he couldn't let his past with Escoberra cloud his judgement when she did the exact same thing.
March 26, 2017
Read this and a whole slew of books in this series for the Diverse Reading Challenge. The author is a combat officer and so I thought she would know what she was talking about. Not sure where I heard about these books, but I had formed the opinion based on the description I read that the author was writing about the nitty gritty of being a soldier. Since the point of the Diverse Reading Challenge is to stretch one's comfort zone, I figured reading about the struggles of officers and NCOs after having seen combat would stretch mine because I despise the idea that we send out women and men to be killed or maimed in mind and/or body.
I found every book in the series to be facile. I just don't buy it that the love of a good man or woman is sufficient to allow one to face one's darkest issues and find them so easy to live with thereafter. The people in these stories who don't make it to the other side of their personal darkness are those who are not attached to someone.
Frankly, each story was written to a formula and at this point, they have all run together in my mind and even reading the descriptions doesn't distinguish them from each other. I think this is a real shame because I think there are real stories of real members of the army who have struggled with the hideous effects of war and I think this officer/author has done here fellow service personnel a dishonor by telling these stories in such a stereotypical manner.
I found every book in the series to be facile. I just don't buy it that the love of a good man or woman is sufficient to allow one to face one's darkest issues and find them so easy to live with thereafter. The people in these stories who don't make it to the other side of their personal darkness are those who are not attached to someone.
Frankly, each story was written to a formula and at this point, they have all run together in my mind and even reading the descriptions doesn't distinguish them from each other. I think this is a real shame because I think there are real stories of real members of the army who have struggled with the hideous effects of war and I think this officer/author has done here fellow service personnel a dishonor by telling these stories in such a stereotypical manner.
July 1, 2015
I won this book from Goodreads First Reads.
It's Always Been You is military romance featuring Captain Ben Teague and Major Olivia Hale. Ben has just been promoted and adjusting to being in charge of some of the men he'd served with as his commander wants to get the platoon "cleaned up" and discharge all the troublemakers. Olivia is the lawyer in charge of all the cases for the soldiers. The two end up drawn to each other while dealing with all the cases and their own feelings toward events.
I really felt for Ben and loved his character and all he was going through but Olivia a few times really came across as somewhat scary in her obsessiveness with punishing all that might be doing wrong. Even though she's been through and seen a lot in her job you'd think she would have bit more compassion with getting people help. Overall a decent love story though.
It's Always Been You is military romance featuring Captain Ben Teague and Major Olivia Hale. Ben has just been promoted and adjusting to being in charge of some of the men he'd served with as his commander wants to get the platoon "cleaned up" and discharge all the troublemakers. Olivia is the lawyer in charge of all the cases for the soldiers. The two end up drawn to each other while dealing with all the cases and their own feelings toward events.
I really felt for Ben and loved his character and all he was going through but Olivia a few times really came across as somewhat scary in her obsessiveness with punishing all that might be doing wrong. Even though she's been through and seen a lot in her job you'd think she would have bit more compassion with getting people help. Overall a decent love story though.
October 13, 2019
This book was pretty good. I feel that the title was a little misleading. There were times I got bored and skimmed over sections. Overall, it was interesting and I’m glad it discussed some of the issues that it did. I feel that there needs to be more awareness of the problems that soldiers and their families face.
I won a signed copy of this book from Goodreads. Thank you!
I won a signed copy of this book from Goodreads. Thank you!
August 10, 2019
A woman with daddy issues + a man with mommy issues in the military= suppressed emotions and "shattered" healing (i think the author used shattered/shattering as a euphemism for orgasms)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2019
(I received a copy for review)
1) I love the cover change 2) my copy was kindly signed by the author & a postcard
That said, I don't think the title really worked for me once I read the book. It makes it seem like this is a relationship that has been ongoing for years in one way or another (exes, friends, acquaintances, classmates, etc). Or, that there was some dilemma between 2 men or something else.
Even though the military and military culture aren't my thing, I'm good about reading anything, so I gave this book a try. Looking at the cover and the title, I thought there would be more romance. I thought the romance would be the central point of the story, with the drama of a court case pushing forward the plot.
For me, there were many unnecessary moments, the dialogue didn't sound right, everything was very stiff, and the point in which they notice each other beyond a professional manner made no sense. There wasn't enough there for them to care enough to think of each other romantically or sexually. There was a lot of them thinking about each other as if they'd spent more than a few second together, or said much to one another, and a lot of assumptions made of one another with no basis except a "haunted look in his eyes" or something.
Why is she putting her career in jeopardy?
It seems there was an effort to make the book moody and real, but with the dialogue so stiff, and things dragging.... two things really put me off.
1) I didn't notice it as much at the beginning, because the dialogue broke it up, but when you get that first scene of Olivia alone in her office it becomes blatant... She, she, she , she, she, she, her her, her. 22-24 times on half a page. Once you notice it, you can'tunnoticed it.
2) I was hoping the sex scenes would save this book... sorry, but nope.
Lastly, I'd like to say that this book did an awesome job talking about the troubles soldiers and their families go through, I just wish this book made me care, but everything felt so disconnected.
I found myself skipping sections, skimming to find something to grab my attention. It took me a long time to get through this book.
This book isn't a total loss, it's just disappointing that it wasn't at the level it's subject matter needed it to be.
I will make sure to pass this book on to someone who is more interested in military topics and ask them if I'm just being biased.
1) I love the cover change 2) my copy was kindly signed by the author & a postcard
That said, I don't think the title really worked for me once I read the book. It makes it seem like this is a relationship that has been ongoing for years in one way or another (exes, friends, acquaintances, classmates, etc). Or, that there was some dilemma between 2 men or something else.
Even though the military and military culture aren't my thing, I'm good about reading anything, so I gave this book a try. Looking at the cover and the title, I thought there would be more romance. I thought the romance would be the central point of the story, with the drama of a court case pushing forward the plot.
For me, there were many unnecessary moments, the dialogue didn't sound right, everything was very stiff, and the point in which they notice each other beyond a professional manner made no sense. There wasn't enough there for them to care enough to think of each other romantically or sexually. There was a lot of them thinking about each other as if they'd spent more than a few second together, or said much to one another, and a lot of assumptions made of one another with no basis except a "haunted look in his eyes" or something.
Why is she putting her career in jeopardy?
It seems there was an effort to make the book moody and real, but with the dialogue so stiff, and things dragging.... two things really put me off.
1) I didn't notice it as much at the beginning, because the dialogue broke it up, but when you get that first scene of Olivia alone in her office it becomes blatant... She, she, she , she, she, she, her her, her. 22-24 times on half a page. Once you notice it, you can'tunnoticed it.
2) I was hoping the sex scenes would save this book... sorry, but nope.
Lastly, I'd like to say that this book did an awesome job talking about the troubles soldiers and their families go through, I just wish this book made me care, but everything felt so disconnected.
I found myself skipping sections, skimming to find something to grab my attention. It took me a long time to get through this book.
This book isn't a total loss, it's just disappointing that it wasn't at the level it's subject matter needed it to be.
I will make sure to pass this book on to someone who is more interested in military topics and ask them if I'm just being biased.
February 25, 2014
3.5
I enjoy reading military romances right now. Although, I liked this one, I didn't necessarily love it. I'm assuming it's because I haven't read the companion novels in the same series prior to this one. I am not sure. I actually want to go back and read the one before this one. I understood the relationship and how they needed to rely on each other and enjoyed the banter between the two. The writing is really well done. It's a good romance with troubles that they work through together which made me enjoy the book that much more. I would recommend this for those who love military romances like I do.
I enjoy reading military romances right now. Although, I liked this one, I didn't necessarily love it. I'm assuming it's because I haven't read the companion novels in the same series prior to this one. I am not sure. I actually want to go back and read the one before this one. I understood the relationship and how they needed to rely on each other and enjoyed the banter between the two. The writing is really well done. It's a good romance with troubles that they work through together which made me enjoy the book that much more. I would recommend this for those who love military romances like I do.
May 9, 2019
I won this here on goodreads. Not really much for romance novels, but this one was well written. Great for light reading.
March 5, 2014
For this book I do recommend reading the previous one All For You, since the story pretty much starts right after that. The base is cleaning house and fired every commander, which has never been done before. Now new people are put in command and it is up to them to clean up house and get rid of all the bad soldiers. One of those new commanders is Ben Teague, though he actually absolutely does not want the job. His experience with those in charge have always been very rocky and he is afraid to end up like one of those idiots. Ben does not want that kind of responsibility and feels this torn loyalty between his men and the army.
Luckily he does not have to do this on his own. Major Olivia Hale is here to help him and all the other commanders. But when Olivia goes after one of Ben's best friends, tension kind of rises between them. She sees that he does not want this job and is afraid he's just another commander wanting to protect his men, instead of the real victims. Escoberra hit his daughter with the girl needing to go to the hospital, so Olivia is on a mission to get him away from his family. While Ben is convinced his friend would never hurt his daughter.
There are of course other cases, but this one is very near to her heart. In the past she wasn't able to protect someone, but know she will do whatever it takes. Even if this means going over Ben's head. Though seeing the pain in his eyes and the kind heart he has for his men, she might give him the benefit of the doubt.
Slowly Ben gets used to the role of commander. He might not like it, but he will do what must be done. Knowing he can not fix everything, he does what he can to make things better. This mostly means calling on Olivia for advice, since that is her job and well he might like her a bit. When tentatively they give in to each other, their days definitely end better. Ben knows Olivia is holding back some secrets, which he can understand. When she puts up these high walls and pushes him away, that is the straw for Ben. He has been in that same kind of situation and he won't repeat it.
The focus this time was way less on the romance and more on the legal side. Which I found unfortunate. Those legal issues sometimes got a bit too technical to follow really well as a novice and I had trouble understanding them. I could follow it largely, but then it got a bit too boring.
I did like the personal growth Ben and Olivia had to go through before they would be able to work it out. Ben is growing in his role of commander and letting go off his resentment towards the position. While Olivia had to learn that the world isn't black and white, letting go of her past will help her future.
It was once again very well written. A lot of attention to details, though in this case maybe a bit too technical. Ben and Olivia were very interesting characters. I love how real and everyday people they are, making it so much easier to connect with. The romance was a bit lacking for me, but that just made the moments between Ben and Olivia even more sweeter.
3.5 stars
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Luckily he does not have to do this on his own. Major Olivia Hale is here to help him and all the other commanders. But when Olivia goes after one of Ben's best friends, tension kind of rises between them. She sees that he does not want this job and is afraid he's just another commander wanting to protect his men, instead of the real victims. Escoberra hit his daughter with the girl needing to go to the hospital, so Olivia is on a mission to get him away from his family. While Ben is convinced his friend would never hurt his daughter.
There are of course other cases, but this one is very near to her heart. In the past she wasn't able to protect someone, but know she will do whatever it takes. Even if this means going over Ben's head. Though seeing the pain in his eyes and the kind heart he has for his men, she might give him the benefit of the doubt.
Slowly Ben gets used to the role of commander. He might not like it, but he will do what must be done. Knowing he can not fix everything, he does what he can to make things better. This mostly means calling on Olivia for advice, since that is her job and well he might like her a bit. When tentatively they give in to each other, their days definitely end better. Ben knows Olivia is holding back some secrets, which he can understand. When she puts up these high walls and pushes him away, that is the straw for Ben. He has been in that same kind of situation and he won't repeat it.
The focus this time was way less on the romance and more on the legal side. Which I found unfortunate. Those legal issues sometimes got a bit too technical to follow really well as a novice and I had trouble understanding them. I could follow it largely, but then it got a bit too boring.
I did like the personal growth Ben and Olivia had to go through before they would be able to work it out. Ben is growing in his role of commander and letting go off his resentment towards the position. While Olivia had to learn that the world isn't black and white, letting go of her past will help her future.
It was once again very well written. A lot of attention to details, though in this case maybe a bit too technical. Ben and Olivia were very interesting characters. I love how real and everyday people they are, making it so much easier to connect with. The romance was a bit lacking for me, but that just made the moments between Ben and Olivia even more sweeter.
3.5 stars
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
![Profile Image for Michelle [Helen Geek].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1448463806i%2F5557851._CR0%2C13%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 27, 2014
02/26/2014 --
Overall Rating = 5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 4 / 0 / 1 = 2.5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 5 Stars
Character Development = 5 Stars
Story Appreciation = 5 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$2.99 on Amazon]
Smexy [HEAT] Rating = Mild
289 pages
This book will be released March 4th, 2014
I'm not sure what more I can say about Jessica Scott's writing skill that I've not said before. She really is amazing. She gives us very well written stories. We love her characters because they are real people struggling to make sense of life. She writes what she knows; today's Army.
This is the 5th book in the Coming Home series, but each book stands alone. You can read one or all. I've read most of them and can't wait to read the others.
When I read Jessica Scott, I know I'll feel. Her stories always pull strong emotion out in me. In these books, she provides the reader a glimpse at some very real LIFE situations for our returning war veterans and how our military leaders deal. These situations run the gamut; life altering injury [loss of limb, disfiguring scars], PTSD and other trauma related mental illness, drug and alcohol addiction, personal relationship issues, etc. In each book, she takes us to a dark place, but by the end, we have such a sense of hope. She demonstrates to us that as bad as things can get, they can also change for the best. You've heard the saying, "sometimes you have to hit the bottom to start working your way up again." This is at the very heart of each story. The underlying message is HOPE.
I loved Ben. He has so much heart. You want a man like him in your corner. The men in his command are very fortunate. He understands how complicated life can be. Sometimes, all you can do is give someone a hand up. What they do with it, you can't control, but you have to be willing to try. Ben was willing. Olivia is perfect for him.
I could go on and on, but I won't. I really like Jessica Scott and her stories. I look forward to a very long and happy relationship :)
Note: These are books I'll read again with characters I won't soon forget. I'm putting them all in my favorites list.
ARC provided by the author and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Overall Rating = 5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 4 / 0 / 1 = 2.5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 5 Stars
Character Development = 5 Stars
Story Appreciation = 5 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$2.99 on Amazon]
Smexy [HEAT] Rating = Mild
289 pages
This book will be released March 4th, 2014
I'm not sure what more I can say about Jessica Scott's writing skill that I've not said before. She really is amazing. She gives us very well written stories. We love her characters because they are real people struggling to make sense of life. She writes what she knows; today's Army.
This is the 5th book in the Coming Home series, but each book stands alone. You can read one or all. I've read most of them and can't wait to read the others.
When I read Jessica Scott, I know I'll feel. Her stories always pull strong emotion out in me. In these books, she provides the reader a glimpse at some very real LIFE situations for our returning war veterans and how our military leaders deal. These situations run the gamut; life altering injury [loss of limb, disfiguring scars], PTSD and other trauma related mental illness, drug and alcohol addiction, personal relationship issues, etc. In each book, she takes us to a dark place, but by the end, we have such a sense of hope. She demonstrates to us that as bad as things can get, they can also change for the best. You've heard the saying, "sometimes you have to hit the bottom to start working your way up again." This is at the very heart of each story. The underlying message is HOPE.
I loved Ben. He has so much heart. You want a man like him in your corner. The men in his command are very fortunate. He understands how complicated life can be. Sometimes, all you can do is give someone a hand up. What they do with it, you can't control, but you have to be willing to try. Ben was willing. Olivia is perfect for him.
I could go on and on, but I won't. I really like Jessica Scott and her stories. I look forward to a very long and happy relationship :)
Note: These are books I'll read again with characters I won't soon forget. I'm putting them all in my favorites list.
ARC provided by the author and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
October 11, 2019
I don't often read romance novels but this was a pleasant change from my norm. Captain Ben Teague, a tough Army soldier experiences mounting tension with a new position, an old colleague who was brought up on domestic violence charges and working with the irresistible Major Olivia Hale. Meanwhile, Olivia's emotional past mixes with her present day professional decisions and her blooming relationship with Ben.
In the beginning, I found the story a bit slow moving but intriguing. As I read further along, I became more and more compelled to find out what happens between Ben and Olivia and does their romance survive their career obligations. Who wouldn't? The novel is well written, especially the characters's voices and the undeniable, animal attraction description between the 2 MCs. However, as an avid reader and all-round book fanatic, I would love to have seen less internal thought and more action, especially in the beginning to immediately capture the reader's attention.
Much thanks to Jessica Scott for this Goodreads Giveaway novel,
Al Monte
In the beginning, I found the story a bit slow moving but intriguing. As I read further along, I became more and more compelled to find out what happens between Ben and Olivia and does their romance survive their career obligations. Who wouldn't? The novel is well written, especially the characters's voices and the undeniable, animal attraction description between the 2 MCs. However, as an avid reader and all-round book fanatic, I would love to have seen less internal thought and more action, especially in the beginning to immediately capture the reader's attention.
Much thanks to Jessica Scott for this Goodreads Giveaway novel,
Al Monte
June 8, 2020
Book Hangover. Huge book hangover. I think it has to do with the fact that I don't have a Jessica Scott novel to look forward to, to read in the next couple of months. After I finished this one, I spent the evening going through the other books, reminiscing, if you will. I adore this series. I'm like a freaking broken record, I know, but I'm going to keep saying it as long as it applies. Ms. Scott combines the reality of military life and tempers it with incredible passion. She takes serious and current issues within the military and gives us a peek into that world and I want more. Like...now. I want Gale Sorren's book...like yesterday. :)
Copy for review provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Copy for review provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 9, 2014
Originally published at Reading Reality
I think that what makes Jessica Scott’s Coming Home series so marvelous is that it doesn’t artificially glorify the practice of war. Her soldiers are doing what they all feel is the absolutely necessary job of defending their country, but she doesn’t turn the firefights into gun-porn.
Her stories are about the emotional costs to the men and women who fight. It’s about the demons they face both on and off the battlefield. She also takes care to tell the story of just how difficult it is to be the one waiting at home.
It’s Always Been You is the story of two people who are fighting their own personal demons as they struggle to do their jobs. It’s a job that Major Olivia Hale, an army lawyer, believes in a little too much, and that Captain Ben Teague isn’t sure he still believes in at all.
Because of a shake-up, an entire battalion command has been reassigned and Ben Teague finds himself in command of a unit instead of pushing a desk. Because that shake-up is due to charges of all sorts of malfeasance, there are a lot of bad apples that need to be weeded out of the entire command. People who are not fit to go back to war, whether due to disciplinary issues or drug addictions.
Olivia Hale is attached to the battalion to expedite all the separations from service as the units begin intensive training for a deployment in eight months.
Ben Teague feels like he is punishing men that he used to fight beside; men who used to be good soldiers before too many deployments and too many drugs screwed them up. He wants to do right by his men, whether or not he’s doing right by the army.
Ben and Olivia butt heads from day one. Her duty is to process some of his soldiers out. He feels that his duty is to take care of his men.
Their conflict is embodied by two cases. One is of a soldier who just needs one more month to qualify for his G.I. Bill benefits. He’s a meth addict who may never rehab enough to take advantage of those benefits, but Ben wants to give him hope.
The other case is that of Ben’s First Sergeant. The evidence all points to the man having beaten his teenaged daughter. Ben is certain that the evidence isn’t the entire story. He can’t believe a man he served with could ever have hurt the daughter he loves.
But Olivia is haunted by one case, just like this one, where Ben’s unwillingness to investigate his fellow soldier resulted in a devastating family tragedy. She can’t let this case go.
The more that Olivia and Ben argue about the fate of his men, the more that they realize they need each other to help them through the intense responsibility involved in both their positions. Even though it’s a bad idea, they can’t resist each other. Then the tragedy strikes that Olivia feared all along.
Escape Rating A-: The contrast in their beliefs makes Olivia and Ben an explosive combination. He has pretty much stopped believing in the Army, and she is burning herself out because she believes that she can make a difference.
I wish we knew more about Ben’s relationship with his mother-the-Colonel. Her influence, and her lack of warmth toward Ben (or seemingly much of anyone after the death of Ben’s father) appears to be part of his lack of faith in the Army as a whole. Ben fears becoming just like her, and that is part of what makes him not want to take a command. He has seen too many commanders who either become too distanced from their soldiers, or who enjoy being “the man in charge” but don’t understand how responsible they are, how much they need to take care of, the soldiers in their unit.
Ben is as overwhelmed by that responsibility as Olivia is by her need to fix everything.
While the reader is aware of the case that haunts Olivia, I would love to know more about where she came from. She reminds me of Emily Lindberg in All For You, she’s not career military but she’s on a mission to make a difference.
The love story starts slowly in this one. Ben and Olivia start out at opposite sides of every case. At first, they get together as stress relief, and they both absolutely need one. As the story progresses, it takes them awhile to figure out that they belong together. She helps him settle into his responsibility and he helps her let go when she needs it.
Just as in all the stories in this series, they are marvelous together, after they get past the rough patches. If you love military romance, start this series with Because of You. Because all the stories are so damn terrific, you'll be glad you did.
I think that what makes Jessica Scott’s Coming Home series so marvelous is that it doesn’t artificially glorify the practice of war. Her soldiers are doing what they all feel is the absolutely necessary job of defending their country, but she doesn’t turn the firefights into gun-porn.
Her stories are about the emotional costs to the men and women who fight. It’s about the demons they face both on and off the battlefield. She also takes care to tell the story of just how difficult it is to be the one waiting at home.
It’s Always Been You is the story of two people who are fighting their own personal demons as they struggle to do their jobs. It’s a job that Major Olivia Hale, an army lawyer, believes in a little too much, and that Captain Ben Teague isn’t sure he still believes in at all.
Because of a shake-up, an entire battalion command has been reassigned and Ben Teague finds himself in command of a unit instead of pushing a desk. Because that shake-up is due to charges of all sorts of malfeasance, there are a lot of bad apples that need to be weeded out of the entire command. People who are not fit to go back to war, whether due to disciplinary issues or drug addictions.
Olivia Hale is attached to the battalion to expedite all the separations from service as the units begin intensive training for a deployment in eight months.
Ben Teague feels like he is punishing men that he used to fight beside; men who used to be good soldiers before too many deployments and too many drugs screwed them up. He wants to do right by his men, whether or not he’s doing right by the army.
Ben and Olivia butt heads from day one. Her duty is to process some of his soldiers out. He feels that his duty is to take care of his men.
Their conflict is embodied by two cases. One is of a soldier who just needs one more month to qualify for his G.I. Bill benefits. He’s a meth addict who may never rehab enough to take advantage of those benefits, but Ben wants to give him hope.
The other case is that of Ben’s First Sergeant. The evidence all points to the man having beaten his teenaged daughter. Ben is certain that the evidence isn’t the entire story. He can’t believe a man he served with could ever have hurt the daughter he loves.
But Olivia is haunted by one case, just like this one, where Ben’s unwillingness to investigate his fellow soldier resulted in a devastating family tragedy. She can’t let this case go.
The more that Olivia and Ben argue about the fate of his men, the more that they realize they need each other to help them through the intense responsibility involved in both their positions. Even though it’s a bad idea, they can’t resist each other. Then the tragedy strikes that Olivia feared all along.
Escape Rating A-: The contrast in their beliefs makes Olivia and Ben an explosive combination. He has pretty much stopped believing in the Army, and she is burning herself out because she believes that she can make a difference.
I wish we knew more about Ben’s relationship with his mother-the-Colonel. Her influence, and her lack of warmth toward Ben (or seemingly much of anyone after the death of Ben’s father) appears to be part of his lack of faith in the Army as a whole. Ben fears becoming just like her, and that is part of what makes him not want to take a command. He has seen too many commanders who either become too distanced from their soldiers, or who enjoy being “the man in charge” but don’t understand how responsible they are, how much they need to take care of, the soldiers in their unit.
Ben is as overwhelmed by that responsibility as Olivia is by her need to fix everything.
While the reader is aware of the case that haunts Olivia, I would love to know more about where she came from. She reminds me of Emily Lindberg in All For You, she’s not career military but she’s on a mission to make a difference.
The love story starts slowly in this one. Ben and Olivia start out at opposite sides of every case. At first, they get together as stress relief, and they both absolutely need one. As the story progresses, it takes them awhile to figure out that they belong together. She helps him settle into his responsibility and he helps her let go when she needs it.
Just as in all the stories in this series, they are marvelous together, after they get past the rough patches. If you love military romance, start this series with Because of You. Because all the stories are so damn terrific, you'll be glad you did.
March 20, 2014
Ms. Scott yet again brings up critical issues in the Army. What happens when they come back from the war with physical and emotional scars? Whose responsibility is it to decide what happens to them? Upper management aka higher ranks. Just as with any establishments, this means politics, and lots of it. In this story, it certainly makes its mark. I was taken aback to what Ms. Scott reveals as the politics side of the story pans out. It brought on good points and certainly two sides of the sty. I love that Ms. Scott laid it out and made it easy to understand.
Teague takes on more responsibility and has moved up the ranks to clean up his new crew. Cleaning up in terms of weeding out the ones who do not qualify to stay and the ones who do. He knew it would be the worst kind of responsibility when some suffer from PTSD, drug and alcohol abuse and he has to decide if they can stay or get the boot. Torn between loyalty and what is right, Captain Ben Teague will need help from the very up-tight lawyer Olivia Hale. The question is, will she be on his side?
I enjoyed Teague and Olivia’s story. They had issues to work out including their feelings for one another and differences when it comes to work decisions. It was funny how they equally intrigued and annoyed each other. However, Teague had the worst end of the stick. He shoulders everyone’s problems that he forgets about himself. He continues to battle sobriety and his future sort of scares me. He’s not in the clear yet and not by a long shot, but he has Olivia to keep him straight, I hope. I’m eager to see more of his progress in the next books.
Ms. Scott does a great job bringing hope in the midst of this chaotic Army life. I am always intrigued and entertained with each book she writes. Well done, Ms. Scott.
ARC provided by publisher
October 16, 2014
I know that when I pick up one of Jessica Scott's novels, I will be entertained, I will feel the characters' pain, and I will crack a few smiles. It's simply a given! And while It's Always Been You did live up to those expectations, I will admit that it's probably my least favorite book in the series so far. However, that is NOT to say that I disliked the book, or that it's terrible. It's not; it's still really, really good!
For some reason, I just did not connect as much with Ben and Olivia as I did previous couples. I'm not sure why, exactly, and perhaps it could be purely due to my current mood while reading this, or due to the fact that I read books 3 and 4 within the last two months. Sometimes I can get series burn out by reading the books too close together.
I enjoyed the peek into Ben's new position, and how much work it entails. I'll admit that, yes, I do sometimes get lost in the line of command and who is who, but that is not Scott's fault. If anything, she makes it easier to understand compared to some military romances I have read. The simple fact is I'm not in the military, so no matter how many books I read, I will never know the inner workings of it. :)
Like with every other book, Scott managed to grab my heart and twist it, more than a few times. I wondered if Ben could fit into his new role, if Olivia could begin to heal from her own past. I wanted to give them both a hug, considering everything they've been through. I was worried about Escoberra and Zittoro, too. And of course I still worried about Reza. Now I'm curious about Sorren and Foster.
It's Always Been You is another solid installment in an amazing series! Even if it's not my “favorite”, it is still a damn good read; I can't stop recommending this series enough! Remember, they are best read in order, but once you start, you won't be able to stop. There's a certain crack in Scott's writing, and I'm a happy addict.
4 STARS!
~ * ~ * ~
For my full review, including favorite book quotes, please visit my blog, TBQ's Book Palace.
TheBookQueen
For some reason, I just did not connect as much with Ben and Olivia as I did previous couples. I'm not sure why, exactly, and perhaps it could be purely due to my current mood while reading this, or due to the fact that I read books 3 and 4 within the last two months. Sometimes I can get series burn out by reading the books too close together.
I enjoyed the peek into Ben's new position, and how much work it entails. I'll admit that, yes, I do sometimes get lost in the line of command and who is who, but that is not Scott's fault. If anything, she makes it easier to understand compared to some military romances I have read. The simple fact is I'm not in the military, so no matter how many books I read, I will never know the inner workings of it. :)
Like with every other book, Scott managed to grab my heart and twist it, more than a few times. I wondered if Ben could fit into his new role, if Olivia could begin to heal from her own past. I wanted to give them both a hug, considering everything they've been through. I was worried about Escoberra and Zittoro, too. And of course I still worried about Reza. Now I'm curious about Sorren and Foster.
It's Always Been You is another solid installment in an amazing series! Even if it's not my “favorite”, it is still a damn good read; I can't stop recommending this series enough! Remember, they are best read in order, but once you start, you won't be able to stop. There's a certain crack in Scott's writing, and I'm a happy addict.
4 STARS!
~ * ~ * ~
For my full review, including favorite book quotes, please visit my blog, TBQ's Book Palace.
TheBookQueen
March 1, 2014
Ben Teague has never wanted to command soldiers, but he finds himself given the task. At times he hasn’t even been sure he wanted to be a soldier any more. This isn’t going to be an easy command either; Ben is one of the commanders tasked with cleaning up the mess their predecessors left behind, a battalion that is battling corruption. To do this he must work with Olivia Hale, the by the book lawyer. Sure some of these soldiers have no hope, but some have Ben.
I have never seen two characters that just should be together but can't get out of their heads enough to realize it. It took a while for me to start this book. Normally when a Jessica Scott book is on my Kindle I rush to devour it, but with this one I took my time. I knew it was going to be the last in this series for a number of months; I wanted to savor it. And savor it I did.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review and I have it preordered to arrive on my Kindle on release day!
Check out my complete review (with quotes) on release day 3/4/2014 at http://tbqspersonalbookpalace.blogspo...
I have never seen two characters that just should be together but can't get out of their heads enough to realize it. It took a while for me to start this book. Normally when a Jessica Scott book is on my Kindle I rush to devour it, but with this one I took my time. I knew it was going to be the last in this series for a number of months; I wanted to savor it. And savor it I did.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review and I have it preordered to arrive on my Kindle on release day!
Check out my complete review (with quotes) on release day 3/4/2014 at http://tbqspersonalbookpalace.blogspo...
November 22, 2018
Full Review posted at Book Lovin' Mamas
I will continue to say it…Jessica Scott is one author who knows how to make my emotions go haywire whenever I read her books. She creates characters that I feel for and loves automatically because of their struggles and strengths. She manages to put characters together that help each other in some way.
I give this book 4.5 moons and recommend it to readers out there that enjoy reading contemporary romance. If you enjoy military reads, this is the book for you too. Because of Jessica Scott, I need to read contemporary military romance right now. I’m way too addicted thanks to her Coming Home series.
I will continue to say it…Jessica Scott is one author who knows how to make my emotions go haywire whenever I read her books. She creates characters that I feel for and loves automatically because of their struggles and strengths. She manages to put characters together that help each other in some way.
I give this book 4.5 moons and recommend it to readers out there that enjoy reading contemporary romance. If you enjoy military reads, this is the book for you too. Because of Jessica Scott, I need to read contemporary military romance right now. I’m way too addicted thanks to her Coming Home series.
March 17, 2014
I loved the relationship that developed between Ben Teague and Olivia Hale. Their story will pull at your heart strings, because you will be angry with them, then sad, and then happy again.
They both have painful pasts that they try to keep to themselves, but as their feelings develop between them, you see how perfect they are for each other. They help each other face their demons and that makes their love for each other that much stronger.
I loved their story!
They both have painful pasts that they try to keep to themselves, but as their feelings develop between them, you see how perfect they are for each other. They help each other face their demons and that makes their love for each other that much stronger.
I loved their story!
March 2, 2014
I've been searching my brain trying to think of an adjective I haven't already used in reviewing the Coming Home series. Ms. Scott's books make you feel anger, tears, and laughter. Most of all, she shows us how love can be found in the most difficult places, between two people who are often at odds with each other. And it all works!
Full review can be viewed on The Book Queen's Blog on March 4th.
Full review can be viewed on The Book Queen's Blog on March 4th.
May 14, 2019
I just couldn't get thru it. I am not of fan of military romances and this was by far so unsexy and boring. I really wanted to like it but I just couldn't.
February 28, 2014
A shiny 'by the book' military lawyer and a captain who has no desire to command square off in this latest installment of the Coming Home Series. I met the two lead characters for this story in the previous series installment. Both caught my attention and I found the idea of a romance getting up between them a mighty entertaining prospect. It was definitely that- and then some- which I have come to expect from this author and her books. I never close one of her books feeling disappointment; only pleasure- sometimes bittersweet, but still pleasure. Jessica Scott isn't afraid to show us some reals with our feels and I like that in a military romance.
The story opens shortly after the end of the last book (yes that's a hint to read in order) when the battalion starts cleaning house. Several new command duos are given their chance to take over the reins and clean up their newly assigned companies. Captain Ben Teague is given Bandit Company and he has no desire to lead. Experience has taught him not to like what happens to people when they are given command and he feels that he will do an even worse job than anyone. It doesn't help that they have been saddled with Major Olivia Hale, a lawyer on a crusade whose first mission is to go after a guy that Ben owes his life.
Olivia isn't impressed with the smart butt captain who is reluctant to do his job and seems to just want to protect his buddies instead of those who are the true victims. Escoberra abused his child and she doesn't care how many medals he won; she is getting him away from that family so they'll be safe. There are so many other situations in these commands that need to be dealt with too and she plans to watch all these commanders like a hawk to make sure that justice is served. Captain Ben Teague draws her attention and keeps it with his casual regard for the rules and soft heart for his guys. It's his heart and that darkness in his eyes hinting at past pain that stays her hand to show a bit of patience and maybe give him a chance. The Escoberra case eats at her though. Oh Ben might trust this one and she feels a little bad for the disillusionment that he'll experience over it all, but she will do the right thing. She enjoys for the first time what it's like to not always be alone, but she is terrified to take that final step of trust so she draws back at a crucial time and it causes a wedge of her own making between her and Ben.
Ben has earned a little trust from the buttoned up Olivia and he now has a really good First Sergeant. Wisecracking, good coffee, cookies, and conferring with Olivia get him through his days. He still has no desire to do what he is doing, but he slowly lets the weight of command settle on his shoulders. So much is a burden and he can't fix it all, but he learns that he can make some situations a little better. At the end of the day, it is to Olivia that he turns. They start up something tentative and he knows she is holding back on sharing her past. He has a painful past too and he understands until she pulls back and puts up walls. He's been down that road with someone before and this time he won't be the guy standing there hurting and begging to be let in.
This story continues with a little of what was seen in Reza and Emily's book though it shifts from the mental health issues of the battalion to its legal issues. There were so many situations that had no easy answers or reasons for existing. Ben is now learning the burdens of command and Olivia is learning that her view of the world is colored by her past and not everything is as cut and dry as she would like to make it.
Because of the character growth going on, the romance in this one takes a secondary part. The steady and gentle pacing was as engaging as a fast paced thriller. I liked being along for the interpersonal dealings during Ben and Olivia's work days and I enjoyed their slow building relationship. Their relationship had to endure some hard stuff because of who they were at work when they had opposing viewpoints and ways of dealing with things. Truly, it was amazing how it all seemed to work though it shouldn't have. It wasn't all about the attraction and passion. Things were tough, but I loved how these were mature people who dealt with stuff even if it took a step-back moment once or twice. They got it right in the end.
From the genuine emotions looking back at him. The care. The concern.
The faith.
The love.
Ben shattered. In the darkness, in the center of her embrace, he lost a piece of himself he'd been clinging to.
And found something new, something he hadn't realized he'd lost so long ago. He held her there, whispering her name in the darkness.
Loc. 4356 Ben Teague, It's Always Been You
I really loved Reza and Emily from the last book so I was glad they had strong supporting roles in this one particularly Reza. He is there for these two and is so much more at peace and grounded. I certainly hope Ben's new team leader, Soren, shows up some more. I enjoyed getting to know him a little.
All in all, it was another stellar installment in the series engaging me almost completely and I sure hope there is more to come. As I've said before, military romance lovers should definitely give this series a try.
My thanks to Forever and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review thoughts.
The story opens shortly after the end of the last book (yes that's a hint to read in order) when the battalion starts cleaning house. Several new command duos are given their chance to take over the reins and clean up their newly assigned companies. Captain Ben Teague is given Bandit Company and he has no desire to lead. Experience has taught him not to like what happens to people when they are given command and he feels that he will do an even worse job than anyone. It doesn't help that they have been saddled with Major Olivia Hale, a lawyer on a crusade whose first mission is to go after a guy that Ben owes his life.
Olivia isn't impressed with the smart butt captain who is reluctant to do his job and seems to just want to protect his buddies instead of those who are the true victims. Escoberra abused his child and she doesn't care how many medals he won; she is getting him away from that family so they'll be safe. There are so many other situations in these commands that need to be dealt with too and she plans to watch all these commanders like a hawk to make sure that justice is served. Captain Ben Teague draws her attention and keeps it with his casual regard for the rules and soft heart for his guys. It's his heart and that darkness in his eyes hinting at past pain that stays her hand to show a bit of patience and maybe give him a chance. The Escoberra case eats at her though. Oh Ben might trust this one and she feels a little bad for the disillusionment that he'll experience over it all, but she will do the right thing. She enjoys for the first time what it's like to not always be alone, but she is terrified to take that final step of trust so she draws back at a crucial time and it causes a wedge of her own making between her and Ben.
Ben has earned a little trust from the buttoned up Olivia and he now has a really good First Sergeant. Wisecracking, good coffee, cookies, and conferring with Olivia get him through his days. He still has no desire to do what he is doing, but he slowly lets the weight of command settle on his shoulders. So much is a burden and he can't fix it all, but he learns that he can make some situations a little better. At the end of the day, it is to Olivia that he turns. They start up something tentative and he knows she is holding back on sharing her past. He has a painful past too and he understands until she pulls back and puts up walls. He's been down that road with someone before and this time he won't be the guy standing there hurting and begging to be let in.
This story continues with a little of what was seen in Reza and Emily's book though it shifts from the mental health issues of the battalion to its legal issues. There were so many situations that had no easy answers or reasons for existing. Ben is now learning the burdens of command and Olivia is learning that her view of the world is colored by her past and not everything is as cut and dry as she would like to make it.
Because of the character growth going on, the romance in this one takes a secondary part. The steady and gentle pacing was as engaging as a fast paced thriller. I liked being along for the interpersonal dealings during Ben and Olivia's work days and I enjoyed their slow building relationship. Their relationship had to endure some hard stuff because of who they were at work when they had opposing viewpoints and ways of dealing with things. Truly, it was amazing how it all seemed to work though it shouldn't have. It wasn't all about the attraction and passion. Things were tough, but I loved how these were mature people who dealt with stuff even if it took a step-back moment once or twice. They got it right in the end.
From the genuine emotions looking back at him. The care. The concern.
The faith.
The love.
Ben shattered. In the darkness, in the center of her embrace, he lost a piece of himself he'd been clinging to.
And found something new, something he hadn't realized he'd lost so long ago. He held her there, whispering her name in the darkness.
Loc. 4356 Ben Teague, It's Always Been You
I really loved Reza and Emily from the last book so I was glad they had strong supporting roles in this one particularly Reza. He is there for these two and is so much more at peace and grounded. I certainly hope Ben's new team leader, Soren, shows up some more. I enjoyed getting to know him a little.
All in all, it was another stellar installment in the series engaging me almost completely and I sure hope there is more to come. As I've said before, military romance lovers should definitely give this series a try.
My thanks to Forever and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review thoughts.
April 3, 2015
**BETH'S 4.5 STAR REVIEW**
I absolutely love when I pick up a book and become instantly sucked into the story and then absolutely just WOW’d by it. Recently I had picked up the Christmas novella in this series, “All I want for Christmas Is You” and found it to be a great read for it being a novella and enjoyed the author’s writing style. When I took a look at this one, I decided to give a full length novel a shot to get a true feel for the authors writing. I must say that I went into this book with the expectation of enjoying it, I love a good military romance but have to say, I was surprised with how much I truly loved it and how quickly is sucked me in. This was the fifth novel in the series but it can be definitely be read as a standalone, I didn’t feel lost at any point in the story. Although I will be going back to the rest of the series, especially to read All For You to get Reza and Emily’s story.
I really loved how the author built the relationship between Ben and Olivia in this story. These two characters were new to their roles and ended up being on the opposite ends of an issue that has risen with one of Ben’s best friend and soldiers under him. I loved how these two argued and bantered back and forth in the beginning and how slowly they began to tolerate each other to the point that a physical attraction began and even a friendship. And when these two finally came together and got it on, it was truly hot and panty wetting! I also loved how they came together as something casual, something to chase the “Dark” away these two struggled with but that they became so much more without them truly realizing it.
Ben, what can I say to truly explain him. He was sweet, thoughtful, funny, loyal and just truly amazing. His life has never been perfect, he lost his dad at a young age which forever changed his relationship with his mom and then on top of that is constantly fighting the demons from his times being overseas. He is now forced into the role as Commander and he struggles going from being friends to being the boss. I loved seeing him evolve as a person as when he took on his new role. I loved who he became with Olivia. He is a person that puts 110% of his heart into anything he does and it’s what make his character so amazing.
I loved Olivia’s character, she was such a strong character even though she too had her own demons. She was a lawyer and an officer in the military, in a man’s world but also kind of on her own and not part of their little groups. I loved that she held her own and stood her ground for things she believed in and didn’t let intimidating men in uniforms make her back down. She had such a horrible past and upbringing and things in her jobs caused triggers to bring up the past but she didn’t let her stop being amazing at what she did. I also loved how she stood by Ben when he needed her the most even though at times she too herself was ready to fall apart. I loved her strength and it was so refreshing to see two great characters who were so strong and very stubborn come head to head but slowly become a great team who eventually fall completely in love.
This book was truly a fabulous read and I must say I really enjoyed this authors writing. I was pulled in from the start of the story, the storyline flowed at a really great pace and found myself not wanting to put it down but struggling to take my time so it didn’t end quickly. I loved how the storyline played, it was a great mix of serious issues, some tragic past demons, funny banter that had me laughing and just the right amount of drama that kept me turning the pages. And I must say that I loved how unpredictable I found this book, in my mind as I read I had ideas of how things would played out but loved that the book kept surprising me with the twist and turns it took, keeping me constantly engaged. Overall a really awesome series read that easily can be read as a standalone and has me now adding this author to the list of authors I watch regularly for new books because I definitely want to read more of this lady’s work.
I absolutely love when I pick up a book and become instantly sucked into the story and then absolutely just WOW’d by it. Recently I had picked up the Christmas novella in this series, “All I want for Christmas Is You” and found it to be a great read for it being a novella and enjoyed the author’s writing style. When I took a look at this one, I decided to give a full length novel a shot to get a true feel for the authors writing. I must say that I went into this book with the expectation of enjoying it, I love a good military romance but have to say, I was surprised with how much I truly loved it and how quickly is sucked me in. This was the fifth novel in the series but it can be definitely be read as a standalone, I didn’t feel lost at any point in the story. Although I will be going back to the rest of the series, especially to read All For You to get Reza and Emily’s story.
I really loved how the author built the relationship between Ben and Olivia in this story. These two characters were new to their roles and ended up being on the opposite ends of an issue that has risen with one of Ben’s best friend and soldiers under him. I loved how these two argued and bantered back and forth in the beginning and how slowly they began to tolerate each other to the point that a physical attraction began and even a friendship. And when these two finally came together and got it on, it was truly hot and panty wetting! I also loved how they came together as something casual, something to chase the “Dark” away these two struggled with but that they became so much more without them truly realizing it.
Ben, what can I say to truly explain him. He was sweet, thoughtful, funny, loyal and just truly amazing. His life has never been perfect, he lost his dad at a young age which forever changed his relationship with his mom and then on top of that is constantly fighting the demons from his times being overseas. He is now forced into the role as Commander and he struggles going from being friends to being the boss. I loved seeing him evolve as a person as when he took on his new role. I loved who he became with Olivia. He is a person that puts 110% of his heart into anything he does and it’s what make his character so amazing.
I loved Olivia’s character, she was such a strong character even though she too had her own demons. She was a lawyer and an officer in the military, in a man’s world but also kind of on her own and not part of their little groups. I loved that she held her own and stood her ground for things she believed in and didn’t let intimidating men in uniforms make her back down. She had such a horrible past and upbringing and things in her jobs caused triggers to bring up the past but she didn’t let her stop being amazing at what she did. I also loved how she stood by Ben when he needed her the most even though at times she too herself was ready to fall apart. I loved her strength and it was so refreshing to see two great characters who were so strong and very stubborn come head to head but slowly become a great team who eventually fall completely in love.
This book was truly a fabulous read and I must say I really enjoyed this authors writing. I was pulled in from the start of the story, the storyline flowed at a really great pace and found myself not wanting to put it down but struggling to take my time so it didn’t end quickly. I loved how the storyline played, it was a great mix of serious issues, some tragic past demons, funny banter that had me laughing and just the right amount of drama that kept me turning the pages. And I must say that I loved how unpredictable I found this book, in my mind as I read I had ideas of how things would played out but loved that the book kept surprising me with the twist and turns it took, keeping me constantly engaged. Overall a really awesome series read that easily can be read as a standalone and has me now adding this author to the list of authors I watch regularly for new books because I definitely want to read more of this lady’s work.
March 9, 2014
As always with a Jessica Scott book, "It's Always Been You" was a powerful story. This time around, Scott looks at the challenges of command and how and when to help the soldiers with problems. In the previous book, "All For You", she looked at addiction and suicide, this time we get soldiers who are acting out - public fights, drinking while intoxicated, and domestic abuse for example. I get the feeling, reading these books, that Scott really doesn't like those in command in the army and definitely not the ones who makes the policies and run things. The book was overly preachy at times, which detracted both from its impact and the love story.
The romance between military lawyer Emily Hale and battalion commander Ben Teague is sweet but moved rather fast for me. I'd have liked if it had moved slower but I liked that the problems they had were realistic. Scott has a knack for writing realistic situations and throwing up artificial barriers. In this case, Emily and Ben both had incidences from the past that presented problems as well their current work which provided challenges where it was difficult to separate the personal from the professional.
I empathized with Ben's struggle with command and his conflicted feelings concerning his men. He went from being one of them to overseeing them and that was a challenge for both him and them. He's not as tortured as Reza from "All For You" or Trent from "Back To You" but he has his problems. He's a good, decent, honorable man with deep wells of loyalty and a snarly sense of humor. He deeply believes that taking care of his men is more important that regs or procedures, which, as you can imagine, causes problems for him. The military is big on obedience and on following procedures. When he becomes the commander of his unit, his loyalties are challenged and in conflict. He wants to help his men and take care of them but means more than just putting them in rehab or keeping them out of jail; he also has to make sure all the men receive the training and preparation they need to be deployed. Taking care of the problem soldiers cuts into the time needed for doing that.
Emily is a lawyer who works with command to drum out soldiers who are no longer fit to serve. As you can imagine, that creates conflict between her and Ben. At first, she tries to ignore the flicker of
interest between her and Ben but it isn't long before she and Ben give in. Emily is passionate about her work and especially so about keeping the families of soldiers safe. Again, conflict with Ben. But while she's passionate, she's not hard-headed, she's willing to listen to reason, though it may not change her mind. She comes off as a stick-in-the-mud at first, but gradually we get to see other sides of her and see that she has a sense of humor, is compassionate, honorable and willing to drop everything to help a friend.
I didn't love "It's Always Been You" as much as I did previous books; it was, as I said, too preachy at times and too issue-laden but it's still a darn good book and it kept me up late finishing it. Scott writes such realistic characters and such engaging stories that I can overlook minor flaws. I'm ready for the next one!
The romance between military lawyer Emily Hale and battalion commander Ben Teague is sweet but moved rather fast for me. I'd have liked if it had moved slower but I liked that the problems they had were realistic. Scott has a knack for writing realistic situations and throwing up artificial barriers. In this case, Emily and Ben both had incidences from the past that presented problems as well their current work which provided challenges where it was difficult to separate the personal from the professional.
I empathized with Ben's struggle with command and his conflicted feelings concerning his men. He went from being one of them to overseeing them and that was a challenge for both him and them. He's not as tortured as Reza from "All For You" or Trent from "Back To You" but he has his problems. He's a good, decent, honorable man with deep wells of loyalty and a snarly sense of humor. He deeply believes that taking care of his men is more important that regs or procedures, which, as you can imagine, causes problems for him. The military is big on obedience and on following procedures. When he becomes the commander of his unit, his loyalties are challenged and in conflict. He wants to help his men and take care of them but means more than just putting them in rehab or keeping them out of jail; he also has to make sure all the men receive the training and preparation they need to be deployed. Taking care of the problem soldiers cuts into the time needed for doing that.
Emily is a lawyer who works with command to drum out soldiers who are no longer fit to serve. As you can imagine, that creates conflict between her and Ben. At first, she tries to ignore the flicker of
interest between her and Ben but it isn't long before she and Ben give in. Emily is passionate about her work and especially so about keeping the families of soldiers safe. Again, conflict with Ben. But while she's passionate, she's not hard-headed, she's willing to listen to reason, though it may not change her mind. She comes off as a stick-in-the-mud at first, but gradually we get to see other sides of her and see that she has a sense of humor, is compassionate, honorable and willing to drop everything to help a friend.
I didn't love "It's Always Been You" as much as I did previous books; it was, as I said, too preachy at times and too issue-laden but it's still a darn good book and it kept me up late finishing it. Scott writes such realistic characters and such engaging stories that I can overlook minor flaws. I'm ready for the next one!
March 20, 2015
I cannot praise Jessica Scott’s Coming Home series enough. I have raved about each book in this series. Jessica Scott combines military careers, civilian life, people with very real problems, and trying to build happy lives in situations that are very hard for those they love. This series has brought me to tears, opened my eyes to the problems the modern army faces, made me see a soldier as an individual person, and has delivered very real relationships. Each and every story is emotional. Each book addresses difficult situations that affect these courageous men and women. In the end, there is always the underlying message of hope and true love.
It’s Always Been You is Captain Ben Teague’s story. He is a stand up guy, always has your back, and has an understanding of human nature. He is a strong leader and recognizes each and every soldier under his command as an individual.
This story begins where All For You left off. The battalion has cleaned house and new commands are assigned. The objective is to clean up their newly assigned companies. Captain Ben Teague does not want the new Bandit Company he has been assigned to. He does not want to be a commander.
Overseeing the clean up is Major Olivia Hale, a lawyer whose sole purpose is to make sure this happens. Captain Teague is on her radar. This reluctant leader seems to want to protect his men rather than the true victims. His casual regard for the rules, his soft heart, and closed lip are not helping matters. One of his men, Escoberra, is under suspect for abuse of his child. She wants his family to be safe . Due to her past, her views, opinions, and drive are very influential in her actions. After she meets Ben, she will learn everything is not as black and white as they seem.
Ben and Olivia are drawn to one another even though they are on opposing sides of the fence. Both will have to learn from the other. Both will have to open their minds and hearts to the new dilemma’s this new Company faces. They will have to learn to combine their working relationship with their personal relationship. They will have to learn how to deal with mental health issues and legal issues their battelian will face. But together they will both become stronger individuals. They will learn from each other and they will teach each other very different things about life.
I loved Ben and Olivia’s relationship. It was tough, mature, compassionate, heart wrenching, and empowering.
It’s Always Been You by Jessica Scott is another powerful book in the Coming Home series. It can be read as a stand alone or in series order.
June 7, 2023
Historia muy realista y madura, que trata con temas muy peliagudos de una manera extremadamente sincera. A pesar de que el romance no me ha impactado, no sé porqué, la verdad, tengo que reconocer que éste ha sido uno de los pocos libros en los que no hay ni estupideces, ni drama gratuito, ni repeticiones cansinas de porqué sí o por qué no pueden estar juntos ni separaciones difíciles de digerir… Ha sido muy realista, ha sido algo que realmente puede pasar en la vida real y ha sido un placer ver cómo reaccionan los diferentes personajes frente a las situaciones a la que la autora los expone, de verdad que se entienden todos los puntos de vista y que te puedes poner en la piel de ellos.
Ha sido interesante.
Y el romance también está trabajado. Nada de insta-love-lust. No. La autora nos muestra cómo y porqué se atraen los protagonistas y el sexo es sólo un componente más del romance y no su único ingrediente…no me gusta cuando los autores confunden sexo con romance.
En fin, una historia con algo más que romance, muy realista y entretenida.
This has been a mature and very realistic story that deals with very complicated issues in a extremely sincere manner. While the romance has not impacted me, I don't know why if I have to said the truth, I have to admit that this has been one of the few books in which there are not neither stupidity nor melodrama nor repetitions about why they can´t be together nor hard-to-digest separations... It has been very realistic, it has been something that can actually happen in real life and it has been a pleasure to see how the characters respond to the situations to which the author exposes them, I really understand every one of them and their points of view.
It has been interesting.
The romance has been interesting, without insta-love-lust. No. The author shows us how and why the MC´s are attracted to each other and the sex is only one component of the romance and not its only ingredient... I don't like when the authors confuse sex with romance.
It had been a story with something other than romance, very realistic and entertaining.
Ha sido interesante.
Y el romance también está trabajado. Nada de insta-love-lust. No. La autora nos muestra cómo y porqué se atraen los protagonistas y el sexo es sólo un componente más del romance y no su único ingrediente…no me gusta cuando los autores confunden sexo con romance.
En fin, una historia con algo más que romance, muy realista y entretenida.
This has been a mature and very realistic story that deals with very complicated issues in a extremely sincere manner. While the romance has not impacted me, I don't know why if I have to said the truth, I have to admit that this has been one of the few books in which there are not neither stupidity nor melodrama nor repetitions about why they can´t be together nor hard-to-digest separations... It has been very realistic, it has been something that can actually happen in real life and it has been a pleasure to see how the characters respond to the situations to which the author exposes them, I really understand every one of them and their points of view.
It has been interesting.
The romance has been interesting, without insta-love-lust. No. The author shows us how and why the MC´s are attracted to each other and the sex is only one component of the romance and not its only ingredient... I don't like when the authors confuse sex with romance.
It had been a story with something other than romance, very realistic and entertaining.
March 19, 2014
Captain Ben Teague has gotten a promotion that he does not even want. This promotion has him being in charge of his friends, not being able to protect them. His job also entails getting rid of the riffraff and trouble makers in his group. While cleaning house he has to work closely with Major Olivia Hale, a by the book lawyer hired to help him.
Olivia has to deal with the demons of her past. Helping Ben with a mentor and colleague who has been brought up on charges, charges Ben cannot believe, puts this past front and center. With Ben’s compassion and understanding they will work together and get what has to be done done.
My Review:
I feel like I say the same thing with every review of Jessica’s books that I read. But they are all absolutely amazing. Everyone of them touches on hard subjects with a tenderness and understanding that not many authors are able to handle. Each book can stand alone, but as a series they are even better.
Ben, oh Ben. He is so tough. He has not had the easiest life and it shows. Between the military and war, his mother being military and losing his father young, and the toughness of his new job, things are just not going the way he wants. From the very beginning you could feel how huge his heart is. He would go to the ends of the earth and do whatever is in his power to help his fellow soldiers. Ben is the man who would give you the shirt off his back if that was what was needed.
Olivia is the perfect match for Ben. She is tough and can stand her ground when Ben starts his BS, but she is also understanding of all the troubles Ben is dealing with. She has the matching huge heart to go with Bens. I enjoyed watching the two of them circle each other, when they finally give in to their feelings the heat is absolutely amazing.
This is probably my most favorite military series. Jessica Scott is a great author. I highly recommend you check out this entire series or at least this book from the Coming Home Series.
Olivia has to deal with the demons of her past. Helping Ben with a mentor and colleague who has been brought up on charges, charges Ben cannot believe, puts this past front and center. With Ben’s compassion and understanding they will work together and get what has to be done done.
My Review:
I feel like I say the same thing with every review of Jessica’s books that I read. But they are all absolutely amazing. Everyone of them touches on hard subjects with a tenderness and understanding that not many authors are able to handle. Each book can stand alone, but as a series they are even better.
Ben, oh Ben. He is so tough. He has not had the easiest life and it shows. Between the military and war, his mother being military and losing his father young, and the toughness of his new job, things are just not going the way he wants. From the very beginning you could feel how huge his heart is. He would go to the ends of the earth and do whatever is in his power to help his fellow soldiers. Ben is the man who would give you the shirt off his back if that was what was needed.
Olivia is the perfect match for Ben. She is tough and can stand her ground when Ben starts his BS, but she is also understanding of all the troubles Ben is dealing with. She has the matching huge heart to go with Bens. I enjoyed watching the two of them circle each other, when they finally give in to their feelings the heat is absolutely amazing.
This is probably my most favorite military series. Jessica Scott is a great author. I highly recommend you check out this entire series or at least this book from the Coming Home Series.
April 1, 2015
A painfully accurate portrayal of life in the Army in a leadership position.
I won't claim to know exactly how things are done in the Army or how it feels to be in a position of power through it all, but having served as an Army Spouse to an NCO (SFC retired) for 14 years and now living as his caregiver, I'd like to think I have some idea. The events described in this book were scarily similar to stories I heard day after day from my husband. So much so that I'm buying this book and forcing him to read it. Obviously he's not a huge fan of romantic fiction but this book is SO much more than just a romance.
A large majority of the story was Captain Ben Teague's struggle to balance Army politics, rules and regulations with the brotherly bonds he formed during combat, as well as a strained family history. The things he does aren't pretty, they are not always black and white, mistakes are made and rules are broken. Sometimes for the right reasons, others not so much. Jessica Scott portrayed this in the most honest real way I've ever seen in a fictional story and I can't stop praising the book for that reason.
The romance aspect of the story was subtle but meaningful. The way that Olivia and Ben connected and supported each other was beautiful. Their romance was slow and steady, not rushed or forced. It was perfect.
Getting lost in a good book is sometimes my only escape from the way my life has been impacted by my husbands time on Active Duty. So it's almost ironic that I am so happy to be lost in a book that is such an accurate portrayal of war and what it can do to the people who fought it, but it's also a comfort to read about people who KNOW what it's like. People who are going through what my husband went through and what the people around him have to go through.
I've only read the Christmas Novella from this series (All I Want for Christmas is You) and frankly can't figure out why I didn't read the others right after. This is definitely a series I'll be working my way through and already know that I'll be thoroughly enjoying each one.
I won't claim to know exactly how things are done in the Army or how it feels to be in a position of power through it all, but having served as an Army Spouse to an NCO (SFC retired) for 14 years and now living as his caregiver, I'd like to think I have some idea. The events described in this book were scarily similar to stories I heard day after day from my husband. So much so that I'm buying this book and forcing him to read it. Obviously he's not a huge fan of romantic fiction but this book is SO much more than just a romance.
A large majority of the story was Captain Ben Teague's struggle to balance Army politics, rules and regulations with the brotherly bonds he formed during combat, as well as a strained family history. The things he does aren't pretty, they are not always black and white, mistakes are made and rules are broken. Sometimes for the right reasons, others not so much. Jessica Scott portrayed this in the most honest real way I've ever seen in a fictional story and I can't stop praising the book for that reason.
The romance aspect of the story was subtle but meaningful. The way that Olivia and Ben connected and supported each other was beautiful. Their romance was slow and steady, not rushed or forced. It was perfect.
Getting lost in a good book is sometimes my only escape from the way my life has been impacted by my husbands time on Active Duty. So it's almost ironic that I am so happy to be lost in a book that is such an accurate portrayal of war and what it can do to the people who fought it, but it's also a comfort to read about people who KNOW what it's like. People who are going through what my husband went through and what the people around him have to go through.
I've only read the Christmas Novella from this series (All I Want for Christmas is You) and frankly can't figure out why I didn't read the others right after. This is definitely a series I'll be working my way through and already know that I'll be thoroughly enjoying each one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews