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Meet Me at the Altar #4
Always the One
She's the love of his life...
...but is he still hers?
FBI agent Derrick Matthews has finally found his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life--but she isn't exactly happy about it! Years ago, Hannah Rawlings disappeared overnight when her family went on the run, and she blames Derrick. She tells him she's moved on and he should, too, but Derrick fears Hannah's still in danger. He vows to protect her--even if that means betraying her trust...again.
USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
...but is he still hers?
FBI agent Derrick Matthews has finally found his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life--but she isn't exactly happy about it! Years ago, Hannah Rawlings disappeared overnight when her family went on the run, and she blames Derrick. She tells him she's moved on and he should, too, but Derrick fears Hannah's still in danger. He vows to protect her--even if that means betraying her trust...again.
USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
- GenresContemporary
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2020
168 people want to read
About the author
Tara Randel
89 books761 followersTara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author. Family values, a bit of mystery and, of course, love and romance, are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara has received the Heart of Excellence Readers' Choice Award and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. Visit Tara at www.tararandel.com. Like her on Facebook at Tara Randel Books.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 10, 2020
Thank you Prism and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Always The One
By: Tara Randel
*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I've become a fan of the Harlequin Heartwarming books. They are clean, charming, light and easy to read in a short period of time. Always The One fits the bill as another lovely Heartwarming story. Years ago, Derrick and Hannah were in love. One night, her entire family just disappeared. Not having any idea where she is, Derrick searches for years(plus, he's now an FBI agent). Eventually, Derrick gets a lucky break and locates Hannah. It turns out, her family was placed into protective custody. Now, Hannah, known as Anna, is engaged and harbouring some ill feelings about Derrick. It seems that Hannah has completely moved on with her life, but Derrick wants Hannah back in his life. He sticks around, fearing possible danger to Hannah. Will Derrick win Hannah back, and is she in danger? This is a fast paced and well written story with a bit of romance and mystery. The characters are genuine and easy to like. I enjoyed reading Always The One, and I highly recommend it for romance readers. I look forward to more Harlequin Heartwarming tales!
Always The One
By: Tara Randel
*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I've become a fan of the Harlequin Heartwarming books. They are clean, charming, light and easy to read in a short period of time. Always The One fits the bill as another lovely Heartwarming story. Years ago, Derrick and Hannah were in love. One night, her entire family just disappeared. Not having any idea where she is, Derrick searches for years(plus, he's now an FBI agent). Eventually, Derrick gets a lucky break and locates Hannah. It turns out, her family was placed into protective custody. Now, Hannah, known as Anna, is engaged and harbouring some ill feelings about Derrick. It seems that Hannah has completely moved on with her life, but Derrick wants Hannah back in his life. He sticks around, fearing possible danger to Hannah. Will Derrick win Hannah back, and is she in danger? This is a fast paced and well written story with a bit of romance and mystery. The characters are genuine and easy to like. I enjoyed reading Always The One, and I highly recommend it for romance readers. I look forward to more Harlequin Heartwarming tales!
February 11, 2020
Kathryn Cooper Writes Review
Always the One was another great book by Tara Randel. I mostly listen to audio books these days so when I actually read a book it has to be able to keep my attention. This book kept me happily wanting to read more.
Derrick and Hannah were the main characters and both told the story. They had fallen in love when they were growing up and were separated just before they eloped as teenagers. The main story took place 17 years after Hannah had been taken with her parents into hiding. Derrick was in the FBI and finally found Hannah after all those years, but she wasn’t happy to be found. Derrick discovered that she was in a serious relationship with another man.
Throughout the story I continued to feel terrible for Hannah and what she had gone through and how her life had to change drastically. It was also hard to see Derrick go through the emotionally pain of trying to get her back in his life. Along with the sweet romance there was a little bit of mystery which I enjoyed.
Always the One by Tara Randel was a clean contemporary adult romance full of the ups and downs of love. If you enjoy books full of past love pushing its way back to the present then you will adore this read.
Content Ratings
Sexual: mild (kissing)
Language: none
Violence: none
I received this book from Prism Book Tours. I am not paid for my reviews. My reviews are solely my opinion.
Always the One was another great book by Tara Randel. I mostly listen to audio books these days so when I actually read a book it has to be able to keep my attention. This book kept me happily wanting to read more.
Derrick and Hannah were the main characters and both told the story. They had fallen in love when they were growing up and were separated just before they eloped as teenagers. The main story took place 17 years after Hannah had been taken with her parents into hiding. Derrick was in the FBI and finally found Hannah after all those years, but she wasn’t happy to be found. Derrick discovered that she was in a serious relationship with another man.
Throughout the story I continued to feel terrible for Hannah and what she had gone through and how her life had to change drastically. It was also hard to see Derrick go through the emotionally pain of trying to get her back in his life. Along with the sweet romance there was a little bit of mystery which I enjoyed.
Always the One by Tara Randel was a clean contemporary adult romance full of the ups and downs of love. If you enjoy books full of past love pushing its way back to the present then you will adore this read.
Content Ratings
Sexual: mild (kissing)
Language: none
Violence: none
I received this book from Prism Book Tours. I am not paid for my reviews. My reviews are solely my opinion.
February 19, 2020
4.5 stars
“Sometimes we get a raw deal. It’s how we handle the tough circumstances that makes all the difference.”
I have so enjoyed the Meet Me at the Altar series by Tara Randel, and I’ve been eagerly looking forward to Derrick’s story. Always the One did not disappoint!
The second chance at first love trope has grown on me over the last couple of years because of the intense emotions that unfinished business and lingering love add to the story. Derrick and Hannah’s first kiss after all these years have passed reminded me exactly why I now love this trope! The familiarity of past kisses combined with the newness of maturity and 15 years of separate years experiences made a swoony kiss even swoonier – and all kinds of layered. (It was a great kiss haha!)
And oh how I loved Derrick’s interactions with the kids in Hannah’s class – especially with Tommy. As a former elementary school teacher myself, I appreciated these scenes and could relate to Hannah’s job quite well.
Bottom Line: Randel’s smooth and engaging writing style, combined with layered characters & a dose of suspense make Always The One my favorite installment of this series! Derrick and Hannah are easy to love – and so are Hannah’s mom and Hannah’s student Tommy. This second chance romance is not without its obstacles – namely Hannah’s longheld anger for the inadvertent part Derrick played in her life being turned upside down 15 years ago … and her current fiancé. All of this makes for a highly entertaining, charming, and sweet read you’ll enjoy from start to finish!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
“Sometimes we get a raw deal. It’s how we handle the tough circumstances that makes all the difference.”
I have so enjoyed the Meet Me at the Altar series by Tara Randel, and I’ve been eagerly looking forward to Derrick’s story. Always the One did not disappoint!
The second chance at first love trope has grown on me over the last couple of years because of the intense emotions that unfinished business and lingering love add to the story. Derrick and Hannah’s first kiss after all these years have passed reminded me exactly why I now love this trope! The familiarity of past kisses combined with the newness of maturity and 15 years of separate years experiences made a swoony kiss even swoonier – and all kinds of layered. (It was a great kiss haha!)
And oh how I loved Derrick’s interactions with the kids in Hannah’s class – especially with Tommy. As a former elementary school teacher myself, I appreciated these scenes and could relate to Hannah’s job quite well.
Bottom Line: Randel’s smooth and engaging writing style, combined with layered characters & a dose of suspense make Always The One my favorite installment of this series! Derrick and Hannah are easy to love – and so are Hannah’s mom and Hannah’s student Tommy. This second chance romance is not without its obstacles – namely Hannah’s longheld anger for the inadvertent part Derrick played in her life being turned upside down 15 years ago … and her current fiancé. All of this makes for a highly entertaining, charming, and sweet read you’ll enjoy from start to finish!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 3, 2020
Thank you in advance to the author, Tara Randel, as well as Prism Book Tours for providing a complimentary copy to review. A positive review was NOT required, and all words are my own.
As of last year, I have begun “warming up” to Harlequin’s “Heartwarming” line. My first two introductions were as a private review at an author’s request, and one was from a review group. I was hooked!
But, I’m no stranger to Harlequin books as I began reading them about 20 years ago. It was last year I was re-introduced to the Love Inspired Series. I have some 2003 “Love Inspired” books from Steeple Hill that I’ve never read. I can see that line has definitely improved. And, because I enjoyed the Intrigue line, it makes sense that I am absolutely hooked on the Love Inspired Suspense series.
Monthly readers will note the cover change this month (February 2020). Harlequin redesigned the covers for all of their series (which is also color-coded). As opposed to the previous (recent) “design”, this is a bit cleaner with the LOGO, publisher, and series in the upper left of the cover. The logo is a bit LESS noticeable. In the “Heartwarming” line, the heart on the spine is missing. Eagle-eyed readers should still be able to spot this in their favorite stores though.
On to this book …
“Always the One” grabbed me right off by a weakness I have when it comes to a romance story – law enforcement. Be it local police, small town sheriffs, investigators, FBI, even NCIS – I have a real soft spot for law enforcement heroes in a story.
The blurb on this book grabbed my attention because it also dealt with a former love interest in the Witness Protection Program (WITSEC).
Even while I’m reading a book, I try to take notes for my review. Trying to write a review with no notes is impossible.Why? I couldn’t take them when it came to this book.
And, that’s not because I didn’t like this book – I LOVED it! I read it in about two days. As this is a “large print” novel, that wasn’t that hard. I found I couldn’t put it down, and since I read at bedtime – of course I had to put it down as I needed some sleep. But, I kept wanting to come back to it.
The characters and story drew me in right away. And, it was easy to see where both Derrick and Anna (Hannah) were coming from. Still, it was rather sad to see that while they both deeply loved each other, Anna wasn’t as thrilled with seeing Derrick again. Yet, he was willing to give her as much time as she needed.
This was the first “Meet me at the Altar” book I have read, and the first one of the author’s I’ve read. Tara Randel did a terrific job with this one. While part of the series, this easily stands on its own. The writer put in enough information for the other family members so I was able to read this without feeling lost.
Derrick arrives in a Northern Nevada town (I’m in Southern Nevada) when he receives something from his and Hannah’s past. After looking for her most of his life, and almost giving up – he’s hoping she is reaching out to him. Only “Anna” isn’t reaching out.
Still, Derrick wants to assure her safety by finding out what is going on. So much so that he gets a job there while supposedly on “vacation”. He still loves her; she loves him, but …
There is Anna’s fiancé, Jonathan, in the mix. I didn’t trust him from the beginning. Nor did I like him. I read the book with all these bad vibes about him.
So, right off – for me – there was a mystery with touch of intrigue/suspense, a lost love, and an unintentional love triangle.
Randel structured and planned the plot quite well with the heart-breaking realities of crime witnesses and what they are forced to leave behind to keep their family safe. It is also heart-breaking for those who are left behind that don’t know what is going on.
Anna’s family has even separated with her father going away to keep her and her mother safe. But, Anna has had to pick up and take charge due to her mother’s failing health.
Randel didn’t back down from the realities of caring for a sick and elderly parent, while managing a full-time job, with wedding planning.
The end was nothing like I expected. It had a “cute”, albeit sneaky conclusion (about chapter 15) which I had to laugh about. I can’t give it away without spoiling it. But, it was so cute! And, of course the standard “happily ever after” with a little bit of the suspense I had read into it.
While categorized under the “Hope & Inspiration” line by Harlequin, this is simply a “clean read” romance. There are no referenced sex scenes, mild PDA (public displays of affection), and the language is mild. There are little to no Christian references, so those who enjoy cleaner reads without wanting the Christian references will enjoy this book, and I also hope those who enjoy Christian romance will enjoy the book as well.
It completely fulfills the back “promise” of being part of the “wholesome stories of love, compassion, and belonging”.
Not only was this “heart-warming”, it was heart-breaking, endearing, and beautiful.
This would make a GREAT Sunday read or even a weekend read. My experience was more of the “weekend” read.
As of last year, I have begun “warming up” to Harlequin’s “Heartwarming” line. My first two introductions were as a private review at an author’s request, and one was from a review group. I was hooked!
But, I’m no stranger to Harlequin books as I began reading them about 20 years ago. It was last year I was re-introduced to the Love Inspired Series. I have some 2003 “Love Inspired” books from Steeple Hill that I’ve never read. I can see that line has definitely improved. And, because I enjoyed the Intrigue line, it makes sense that I am absolutely hooked on the Love Inspired Suspense series.
Monthly readers will note the cover change this month (February 2020). Harlequin redesigned the covers for all of their series (which is also color-coded). As opposed to the previous (recent) “design”, this is a bit cleaner with the LOGO, publisher, and series in the upper left of the cover. The logo is a bit LESS noticeable. In the “Heartwarming” line, the heart on the spine is missing. Eagle-eyed readers should still be able to spot this in their favorite stores though.
On to this book …
“Always the One” grabbed me right off by a weakness I have when it comes to a romance story – law enforcement. Be it local police, small town sheriffs, investigators, FBI, even NCIS – I have a real soft spot for law enforcement heroes in a story.
The blurb on this book grabbed my attention because it also dealt with a former love interest in the Witness Protection Program (WITSEC).
Even while I’m reading a book, I try to take notes for my review. Trying to write a review with no notes is impossible.Why? I couldn’t take them when it came to this book.
And, that’s not because I didn’t like this book – I LOVED it! I read it in about two days. As this is a “large print” novel, that wasn’t that hard. I found I couldn’t put it down, and since I read at bedtime – of course I had to put it down as I needed some sleep. But, I kept wanting to come back to it.
The characters and story drew me in right away. And, it was easy to see where both Derrick and Anna (Hannah) were coming from. Still, it was rather sad to see that while they both deeply loved each other, Anna wasn’t as thrilled with seeing Derrick again. Yet, he was willing to give her as much time as she needed.
This was the first “Meet me at the Altar” book I have read, and the first one of the author’s I’ve read. Tara Randel did a terrific job with this one. While part of the series, this easily stands on its own. The writer put in enough information for the other family members so I was able to read this without feeling lost.
Derrick arrives in a Northern Nevada town (I’m in Southern Nevada) when he receives something from his and Hannah’s past. After looking for her most of his life, and almost giving up – he’s hoping she is reaching out to him. Only “Anna” isn’t reaching out.
Still, Derrick wants to assure her safety by finding out what is going on. So much so that he gets a job there while supposedly on “vacation”. He still loves her; she loves him, but …
There is Anna’s fiancé, Jonathan, in the mix. I didn’t trust him from the beginning. Nor did I like him. I read the book with all these bad vibes about him.
So, right off – for me – there was a mystery with touch of intrigue/suspense, a lost love, and an unintentional love triangle.
Randel structured and planned the plot quite well with the heart-breaking realities of crime witnesses and what they are forced to leave behind to keep their family safe. It is also heart-breaking for those who are left behind that don’t know what is going on.
Anna’s family has even separated with her father going away to keep her and her mother safe. But, Anna has had to pick up and take charge due to her mother’s failing health.
Randel didn’t back down from the realities of caring for a sick and elderly parent, while managing a full-time job, with wedding planning.
The end was nothing like I expected. It had a “cute”, albeit sneaky conclusion (about chapter 15) which I had to laugh about. I can’t give it away without spoiling it. But, it was so cute! And, of course the standard “happily ever after” with a little bit of the suspense I had read into it.
While categorized under the “Hope & Inspiration” line by Harlequin, this is simply a “clean read” romance. There are no referenced sex scenes, mild PDA (public displays of affection), and the language is mild. There are little to no Christian references, so those who enjoy cleaner reads without wanting the Christian references will enjoy this book, and I also hope those who enjoy Christian romance will enjoy the book as well.
It completely fulfills the back “promise” of being part of the “wholesome stories of love, compassion, and belonging”.
Not only was this “heart-warming”, it was heart-breaking, endearing, and beautiful.
This would make a GREAT Sunday read or even a weekend read. My experience was more of the “weekend” read.
February 14, 2020
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Always the One is from Harlequin’s Heartwarming line of books. I enjoy these books a lot because they are a fun, clean romance read. I’ve been looking forward to another book about the Matthew brothers, and I very much enjoyed Derrick’s story. My heart went out to him because he was still in love with Hannah, though she had left without saying goodbye and he hadn’t been able to find her. His brothers didn’t understand his feelings for her and kept after him to move on. But did she even want to be found? And In the meantime, Derrick and his brothers were worried about their mother because if the man she was about to marry. The fact that the guy has a shady past doesn’t sit well with the brothers.
I really enjoyed this story as I followed Derrick as he searched the clues clearly left for him to find Hannah. I have grown to love the Matthew brothers and their unique personalities. And author Tara Randel does another amazing job with creating additional characters for this story, and giving her readers more to enjoy from this family. The characters were realistic and there was just the right amount of mystery weaved within the romance to give this story a few Wow moments of enjoyment. This is really a sweet, clean romance. I encourage you to check out Always the One, along with the other books in the Meet Me at the Alter series by Tara Randel.
I want to thank the publisher and author for the print copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Always the One is from Harlequin’s Heartwarming line of books. I enjoy these books a lot because they are a fun, clean romance read. I’ve been looking forward to another book about the Matthew brothers, and I very much enjoyed Derrick’s story. My heart went out to him because he was still in love with Hannah, though she had left without saying goodbye and he hadn’t been able to find her. His brothers didn’t understand his feelings for her and kept after him to move on. But did she even want to be found? And In the meantime, Derrick and his brothers were worried about their mother because if the man she was about to marry. The fact that the guy has a shady past doesn’t sit well with the brothers.
I really enjoyed this story as I followed Derrick as he searched the clues clearly left for him to find Hannah. I have grown to love the Matthew brothers and their unique personalities. And author Tara Randel does another amazing job with creating additional characters for this story, and giving her readers more to enjoy from this family. The characters were realistic and there was just the right amount of mystery weaved within the romance to give this story a few Wow moments of enjoyment. This is really a sweet, clean romance. I encourage you to check out Always the One, along with the other books in the Meet Me at the Alter series by Tara Randel.
I want to thank the publisher and author for the print copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
February 10, 2020
Always the One may be my favorite second chance with your first love book I’ve read yet. The fact that Derrick has searched for Hannah and held onto her in his heart for so many years reminds me of why I love Jane Austen’s Persuasion. There’s something about falling so hard and deep in love at a young age, a love that stands the test of time and separation, that gives me all the feels.
Tara Randel ups the ante with a good bit of suspense, a reluctant Hannah, and the competition of her fiancé. Derrick has his work cut out for him whether he wins her back or lets go of her for good. And this story has plenty of ups, downs, and heated moments.
Throughout this series, I’ve enjoyed hanging out with the Matthews brothers. From the way they have each other’s backs to their love and protectiveness of their mothers, this family is fantastic., and Randel saved the best of their romances for last.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Tara Randel ups the ante with a good bit of suspense, a reluctant Hannah, and the competition of her fiancé. Derrick has his work cut out for him whether he wins her back or lets go of her for good. And this story has plenty of ups, downs, and heated moments.
Throughout this series, I’ve enjoyed hanging out with the Matthews brothers. From the way they have each other’s backs to their love and protectiveness of their mothers, this family is fantastic., and Randel saved the best of their romances for last.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
February 16, 2020
I enjoy blogging because I get to read so many awesome book this one included. I love helping to support authors to get their books promoted and I feel that this was the Lord's calling.
I enjoyed the story line and the wonderful characters that I got to make friends with.
Randal has pulled me into the story from the beginning to the end and I loved the suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out who done it.
I love a book that can keep me entertained all the way through. There wasn't one thing that I didn't like about this book. It's a wonderful and clean read all the way through.
Hannah is trying to come to grips with everything that has happened past, present, and future.
She's an amazing lady who has had a lot to overcome and somewhere along the way, she's gotten the idea that she had to do everything and control whatever situation that she's in.
I love how the author put Hannah through life. While I didn't enjoy watching her struggle, I was rooting for her along the way.
I like to thing that when God closes one door He opens another. He might have closed that first door for a reason.
I really wanted to shake and tell her that she didn't have to do that that there was One died on the cross just for that purpose. He died to save us from our sins and tells us time and time again to lay our burdens at His feet. ( Admittedly I have that trouble as well. But we're all human. That's where forgiveness comes in).
I admit it's easier said than done especially when you feel like you're the one who's trying to do it all. I feel like that sometimes. Especially somewhere along the line that my husband thinks all he has to do is work and then come home go to bed, play on his phone.
Derrick is my kind of guy but someone doesn't see that yet. She's too busy holding onto the past.
He's kind, caring and compassionate. I wish the cover would have showed his face lol. That way I can drool lol! I love that he's interested in everything including life and how he digs his heels in so to speak.
And at last we're to the mystery that is unfolding in the novel. I love that! It makes for an interesting plot.
Now last but least we get to Johnathan. I don't trust him at all. He comes off as a shady and suspicious person of interest. Especially since he disappears all the time.
This is a book I highly recommend if you want an excellent read. It is chalk full of mystery, romance not too heavily overdone and second chances. I promise that it will keep you glued to wherever you are at until the book is finished. I sighed happily after it was finished.
Randel certainly can write a story that's for sure!
My thanks to Prism Tours for a wonderful read. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are entirely my own.
I enjoyed the story line and the wonderful characters that I got to make friends with.
Randal has pulled me into the story from the beginning to the end and I loved the suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out who done it.
I love a book that can keep me entertained all the way through. There wasn't one thing that I didn't like about this book. It's a wonderful and clean read all the way through.
Hannah is trying to come to grips with everything that has happened past, present, and future.
She's an amazing lady who has had a lot to overcome and somewhere along the way, she's gotten the idea that she had to do everything and control whatever situation that she's in.
I love how the author put Hannah through life. While I didn't enjoy watching her struggle, I was rooting for her along the way.
I like to thing that when God closes one door He opens another. He might have closed that first door for a reason.
I really wanted to shake and tell her that she didn't have to do that that there was One died on the cross just for that purpose. He died to save us from our sins and tells us time and time again to lay our burdens at His feet. ( Admittedly I have that trouble as well. But we're all human. That's where forgiveness comes in).
I admit it's easier said than done especially when you feel like you're the one who's trying to do it all. I feel like that sometimes. Especially somewhere along the line that my husband thinks all he has to do is work and then come home go to bed, play on his phone.
Derrick is my kind of guy but someone doesn't see that yet. She's too busy holding onto the past.
He's kind, caring and compassionate. I wish the cover would have showed his face lol. That way I can drool lol! I love that he's interested in everything including life and how he digs his heels in so to speak.
And at last we're to the mystery that is unfolding in the novel. I love that! It makes for an interesting plot.
Now last but least we get to Johnathan. I don't trust him at all. He comes off as a shady and suspicious person of interest. Especially since he disappears all the time.
This is a book I highly recommend if you want an excellent read. It is chalk full of mystery, romance not too heavily overdone and second chances. I promise that it will keep you glued to wherever you are at until the book is finished. I sighed happily after it was finished.
Randel certainly can write a story that's for sure!
My thanks to Prism Tours for a wonderful read. I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are entirely my own.
February 11, 2020
Always the one
Always the one is a romance with a little mystery. I enjoyed how Derrick and Hannah find each other again. They were childhood sweethearts that got separated. He finally finds her again but that is the mystery part. I never did guess who contacted Derrick to bring him back to Hannah.
This is part of a series but I have not read the other books. I want to read the other books sometime. I really enjoyed this book which can be read as a stand alone.
I loved how Derrick was so determined to find Hannah. Also how he wants to protect her. Hannah is very special and so caring.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author through Prism book tours. This book review is my own opinion.
Always the one is a romance with a little mystery. I enjoyed how Derrick and Hannah find each other again. They were childhood sweethearts that got separated. He finally finds her again but that is the mystery part. I never did guess who contacted Derrick to bring him back to Hannah.
This is part of a series but I have not read the other books. I want to read the other books sometime. I really enjoyed this book which can be read as a stand alone.
I loved how Derrick was so determined to find Hannah. Also how he wants to protect her. Hannah is very special and so caring.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author through Prism book tours. This book review is my own opinion.
February 10, 2020
Years ago, FBI agent Derrick Matthews's childhood sweetheart and the love of his life disappeared in the middle of the night. He receives a mysterious envelope with a clue leading to her. However, Hannah Rawlings isn't happy they cross paths again and wants the past to stay buried between them.
Hannah and her family disappeared overnight and went on the run during the middle of the night. She blames Derrick for not keeping a secret between them. Hannah is intent on moving on and thinks he should move on too. However, Derrick believes Hannah is still in danger and intends to protect her even if it means betraying her trust again.
The characters in the novel were both likable and believable people. However, I found some parts of the story didn't belong. Derrick, his father, and three brothers are all in law enforcement but, he didn't realize that Hannah and her family went into witness protection. His neighbor said that "They left in the middle of the night with some official-looking people" right after he told his law enforcement dad a secret. That screams witness protection even to me, who isn't in law enforcement. Then Derrick kept bringing up that he didn't get along with his father for keeping what happened to Hannah a secret. Each time Derrick bought it up, it felt like it was the first time he was mentioning it to Hannah because of her reaction to his story. While the novel was an interesting read, I felt like the reason why Hannah ran away in the middle of the night played a minor part. I didn't feel like there was any danger to Hannah and her family. I wish this part of the story took center stage. I like that the author included how Hannah felt disconnected from her community and the struggles she faced as being a part of the Witness Protection program. Overall, I thought the novel was a nice cozy romantic read.
Hannah and her family disappeared overnight and went on the run during the middle of the night. She blames Derrick for not keeping a secret between them. Hannah is intent on moving on and thinks he should move on too. However, Derrick believes Hannah is still in danger and intends to protect her even if it means betraying her trust again.
The characters in the novel were both likable and believable people. However, I found some parts of the story didn't belong. Derrick, his father, and three brothers are all in law enforcement but, he didn't realize that Hannah and her family went into witness protection. His neighbor said that "They left in the middle of the night with some official-looking people" right after he told his law enforcement dad a secret. That screams witness protection even to me, who isn't in law enforcement. Then Derrick kept bringing up that he didn't get along with his father for keeping what happened to Hannah a secret. Each time Derrick bought it up, it felt like it was the first time he was mentioning it to Hannah because of her reaction to his story. While the novel was an interesting read, I felt like the reason why Hannah ran away in the middle of the night played a minor part. I didn't feel like there was any danger to Hannah and her family. I wish this part of the story took center stage. I like that the author included how Hannah felt disconnected from her community and the struggles she faced as being a part of the Witness Protection program. Overall, I thought the novel was a nice cozy romantic read.
February 14, 2020
What happens when you can't forget your first love? Seventeen years later FBI agent Derrick Matthews still can't move on in his love life without thinking about his high school sweetheart, Hannah Rawlings. They had made such grand plans together but something happened and Derrick has only an inkling of what it may have been.
Hannah and her family have to disappear one night and enter the witness protection program and she isn't able to let Derrick know. But in a way, she blames Derrick for her family's current problems. Derrick is shocked that her and her family is gone without a trace, that I do believe without the closure he needed with Hannah he is unable to move on. Not only that but this has also affected his and his father's relationship.
Now years later, Derrick is just about to move on when a mysterious package arrives at his office that leads him straight to Hannah. Just who sent the package and who is Hannah so afraid of are major questions that beg to be answered in this sweet second chance love story with a bit of suspense.
Also will Hannah ever see her dreams come true and what is Derrick going to do when he finds out Hannah is engaged to another man?
Both of these characters went through a lot of drama in their lives and it was no fault of their own. I enjoyed this story and watching Derrick pursue Hannah after all this time, to love her and want the best for her even if it meant it might not be him. That was a great sign of true love.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Hannah and her family have to disappear one night and enter the witness protection program and she isn't able to let Derrick know. But in a way, she blames Derrick for her family's current problems. Derrick is shocked that her and her family is gone without a trace, that I do believe without the closure he needed with Hannah he is unable to move on. Not only that but this has also affected his and his father's relationship.
Now years later, Derrick is just about to move on when a mysterious package arrives at his office that leads him straight to Hannah. Just who sent the package and who is Hannah so afraid of are major questions that beg to be answered in this sweet second chance love story with a bit of suspense.
Also will Hannah ever see her dreams come true and what is Derrick going to do when he finds out Hannah is engaged to another man?
Both of these characters went through a lot of drama in their lives and it was no fault of their own. I enjoyed this story and watching Derrick pursue Hannah after all this time, to love her and want the best for her even if it meant it might not be him. That was a great sign of true love.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
January 28, 2020
Once Upon A Time Hannah Rawlings and Derrick Matthews were much in love and planned to get married. But something happened on their way to a Happily Ever After. A big something! Hannah and her parents just up and disappeared one day. Derrick never forgot Hannah though. He kept looking for her, even using his FBI skills, but with no success until the envelope with a supposedly missing gem arrives. This also reveals Hannah's present location. With six weeks of vacation available Derrick flies to Nevada to see Hannah. Turns out Hnnah and her parents had been swept up by U.S. Marshalls all those years ago and placed in the Witness Protection program.
When Derrick arrives in Nevada he finds Hannah, now known as Anna Rawley, is engaged. Derrick isn't one to give up easily so he is determined to win back Hannah. That is not as easy as he originally thought. Hannah was angry with Derrick since she thought it was Derrick's fault that the Feds got involved in her life and turned it upside down.
Always the One: Meet Me at the Altar by Tara Randel is an interesting story about love lost and found again. The author has written two very strong characters in Hannah and Derrick. I found them both to be very likeable and yet I found myself getting a little irritated with both of them at times. I saw them both as having to find their way through a difficult situation. The resolution to their problems was a very much delayed HEA.
When Derrick arrives in Nevada he finds Hannah, now known as Anna Rawley, is engaged. Derrick isn't one to give up easily so he is determined to win back Hannah. That is not as easy as he originally thought. Hannah was angry with Derrick since she thought it was Derrick's fault that the Feds got involved in her life and turned it upside down.
Always the One: Meet Me at the Altar by Tara Randel is an interesting story about love lost and found again. The author has written two very strong characters in Hannah and Derrick. I found them both to be very likeable and yet I found myself getting a little irritated with both of them at times. I saw them both as having to find their way through a difficult situation. The resolution to their problems was a very much delayed HEA.
reviewed
February 14, 2020What a way to end the Meet Me at the Altar series! Tara Randel gives the final Matthews brother a second chance at love, and it is well-worth the wait (but unfortunately, Hannah Rawlings might not agree!).
Since her family disappeared without a word, Derrick Matthews wanted to find Hannah. Now, he knows where she is, and he has the perfect opportunity for a second chance with his first love—only she’s engaged to someone else and wants him to just move on. Obviously, as a Matthews brother, he cannot let her go, especially when she might be in danger.
Derrick and Hannah have plenty of history to confront amidst a dose of suspense and unquestionable chemistry. It is a pleasure to see how their story occurs in Always the One, and I so enjoyed it. If you enjoy contemporary romance, like I do, I definitely recommend this book (and this series!).
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Since her family disappeared without a word, Derrick Matthews wanted to find Hannah. Now, he knows where she is, and he has the perfect opportunity for a second chance with his first love—only she’s engaged to someone else and wants him to just move on. Obviously, as a Matthews brother, he cannot let her go, especially when she might be in danger.
Derrick and Hannah have plenty of history to confront amidst a dose of suspense and unquestionable chemistry. It is a pleasure to see how their story occurs in Always the One, and I so enjoyed it. If you enjoy contemporary romance, like I do, I definitely recommend this book (and this series!).
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 9, 2020
I can’t remember ever reading a story that involved someone in the witness protection program, and I’m kind of surprised by that—considering how much I read! It’s an interesting aspect and one I learned from.
Starting a story from a male perspective gains points from me. I enjoy looking at things from that perspective and getting inside a guy’s head.
The characters are nicely developed and not always predictable. (yay!) I connected with Derrick and loved his patience most of all. Anna (Hannah) surprised me and I wasn’t as patient with her as Derrick was. I sympathized with her and Derrick both, though, and longed for them to reach their happy ever afters. Jonathan, on the other hand…
This is a wholesome romance with relatable characters that deal with love lost, love found, and finding a sense of belonging.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Prism Book Tours..
Starting a story from a male perspective gains points from me. I enjoy looking at things from that perspective and getting inside a guy’s head.
The characters are nicely developed and not always predictable. (yay!) I connected with Derrick and loved his patience most of all. Anna (Hannah) surprised me and I wasn’t as patient with her as Derrick was. I sympathized with her and Derrick both, though, and longed for them to reach their happy ever afters. Jonathan, on the other hand…
This is a wholesome romance with relatable characters that deal with love lost, love found, and finding a sense of belonging.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Prism Book Tours..
February 9, 2020
Derrick Matthews, FBI Agent, has never given up trying to locate his high school sweetheart, Hannah Rawlings. When he receives a gem and an address, he knows he has to follow up and find her, but when he does, is he too late? She's already engaged. But will that last and what's with the presence of yet another gem? Does this mean he will learn why Hannah's family had to go into witness protection? And who might be stalking her now?
So many questions even as Derrick does his best to win Hannah back. But will he succeed before he has to go home to walk his widowed mother down the aisle?
So many questions even as Derrick does his best to win Hannah back. But will he succeed before he has to go home to walk his widowed mother down the aisle?
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February 1, 2020Categories
Small Town & Rural Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Meet Me at the Altar
Small Town & Rural Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Meet Me at the Altar
September 16, 2021
Page 60....it is aneurysm not aneurism
February 6, 2020
Derrick Matters talked to his three brothers. Their mother was going to marry a man with a sketchy past and if they valued their relationship with her there wasn’t a thing they could do about it. He couldn’t deny she looked happy. Happier than they’d seen her since their dad died.They Cyprue Point crowd had gathered for the special occasion. Neighbors, town folks, kids and teens swarmed the beach located not far from City Park. Everyone brought a dish to share. Dylan was engaged to marry Kady this summer, the first of the four brothers to make it to the altar. Derrick and his brothers had all followed their father into law enforcement or they had been anyway. Dylan had met Kady during a DEA investigation since then Jasmine Matters had moved to Cyprus Point to be near one of her sons since they had scattered. Dylan had met Kady during an undercover stint in this town. Former forensics D'etre had gone to the Ger Mountains to get a line on the man in their mother had fallen for and had fallen in love with Grace. He now worked as a guide for her family’s adventure vacation business. Dante the youngest had left his profession as a detective at the local PD. His girlfriend Eloise had made Sergeant but Dante had decided to open a specialty mechanics shop to work on classic cars, located on the other coast of Florida. Derrick was to be Dylan's best man, even though he’d like to miss it. He didn’t need a reminder of the love je once had and lost but he couldn’t tell Dylan no. They were close, all the brothers were. Derrick was still hung up on Hannah. Derrick was the first brother to fall in love. The first to talk about getting married. Now look at him. He works too much, doesn't ever commit, as his brother endlessly reminded him, and has to put a smile on his face to make their mother happy. Hannah had been Derrick's first love, his only love. The one who got away. Recently Derrick had been rethinking his goals. Wondered what they’d look like without Hannahat the forefront. There was more to life and he was missing out searching for a woman who didn’t want to be found. Derrick thought about Hannah how they’d exchanged class rings their junior year of HS and how she’d been excited to wear the necklace that had his ring around her neck. Every year they celebrated their birthdays the same day. They starting hanging out when they were eight or nine, became an item at thirteen and planned to run off and get married the day after their eighteenth birthdays. Except when he ‘s showed up that special morning to whisk her away , she was gone. Her entire family vanished into thin air. Derrick thought how the pace in DC was heptic. He was a special agent for the FBI . derrick received a bulky three by five package at the office he worked out of his name d was sprawled on the front in a flowery script. No paper just a small red gem that tumbled out that was the size of a woman’s ring and a memory hit him. Could this be a signal from Hannah . Someone was watching Hananh or Anna Rawley as she was now called. She had been on the run long enough to know that the little hairs in her neck were warning her. Hanah/Anna was a teacher for ten year old children. Then she heard “Hannah” when she made it to her car. She hadn't been called that name in over fifteen years. Then she turned and sprayed him with pepper spray and he slipped. “ Derrick “ she whispered. She asked how he had found her and he said “ the package you sent me.” Hannah then told him that she never sent him anything. They both wondered who? Then Derrick found out Anna had a boyfriend named Derrick and it hurt she had someone else.
This was both a heartwarming and heartbreaking romance with some mystery added in. I like that hannah/Anna held on to the anger at Derrick for what she thought he had done to her and her family even though once she had loved him so deeply. I didn’t like Jonathan at all there was just something off about him that rubbed me wrong. I really enjoyed the mystery in this book. I was actually happy that Hannah had been forced to leave Derrick all those years ago because of the Witness Protection Program. It broke my heart that Hannah/Anna had to deal with her mom's cancer alone. I did chuckle at times while reading this and choked up at others while reading this. I did love that Derrick had never stopped loving Hannah and had looked for her for years. It was awesome just as Derrick was about to give up and then the gem came to him at his place of work. I really enjoyed the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend it.
This was both a heartwarming and heartbreaking romance with some mystery added in. I like that hannah/Anna held on to the anger at Derrick for what she thought he had done to her and her family even though once she had loved him so deeply. I didn’t like Jonathan at all there was just something off about him that rubbed me wrong. I really enjoyed the mystery in this book. I was actually happy that Hannah had been forced to leave Derrick all those years ago because of the Witness Protection Program. It broke my heart that Hannah/Anna had to deal with her mom's cancer alone. I did chuckle at times while reading this and choked up at others while reading this. I did love that Derrick had never stopped loving Hannah and had looked for her for years. It was awesome just as Derrick was about to give up and then the gem came to him at his place of work. I really enjoyed the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend it.
March 4, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. For it had a great mix of mystery and romance. Its a second chance romance for Derrick Matthews who never forgot the girl that disappeared. Hannah Rawlings has alot of things to deal with and Tara really brings it out in this story. Its well written and worth reading. The line this book is in seems to cover a certain amount of time. Its usually more than a month. I really enjoy that. I like that the two work thru things and its not solved quickly. I really look forward to the ending of this series for its been fascinating since the beginning. J
February 12, 2020
A sweet romance full of mystery, memories and love everlasting! ALWAYS THE ONE is book four in Tara Randel’s Meet Me at the Altar series and brings us the story of FBI agent Derrick Matthews and the one that got away. The story line caught my attention quickly and I enjoyed watching them reconnect.
Derrick is easy to like and sympathize with as he reminisces about his first and only love. When he receives something in the mail that makes him think of her and wonder if it could be a clue of where she is, he is quick to set out on a journey to try to find her one last time.
Hannah is not so easy to like. She’s very cold and judgemental when he finally finds her because she blames him and his interference for the fact that her family had to run all those years ago. I had a hard time forgiving her for her attitude and how she strung him along, but eventually she mellowed out.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet reunion story with a hint of danger and intrigue thrown in.
Derrick is easy to like and sympathize with as he reminisces about his first and only love. When he receives something in the mail that makes him think of her and wonder if it could be a clue of where she is, he is quick to set out on a journey to try to find her one last time.
Hannah is not so easy to like. She’s very cold and judgemental when he finally finds her because she blames him and his interference for the fact that her family had to run all those years ago. I had a hard time forgiving her for her attitude and how she strung him along, but eventually she mellowed out.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet reunion story with a hint of danger and intrigue thrown in.
March 13, 2020
Normally I'm a fast reader but this book not sure what it is about this book but I had a hard time getting into it. I thought that this book was pretty good. Liked the characters and everything that went on in it. My only problem was that it kinda dragged on and was pretty slow. If you do like a cute contemporary romance you will enjoy it .
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