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San Diego Marines #0.5
Forever with You
She's been hurt before. As a U.S. Marine, he's the embodiment of loyalty.
After being left at the altar, Sara came home to run her parents’ bookstore. She’s sworn off love, but as she gets to know the handsome Marine Recruiter who works next door, she can’t help but wonder if he might be just the man she always needed.
Sergeant Vince Moore is struck by Sara the moment he meets her. To win her love, he’ll have to show her he’s trustworthy and reliable. But with a job like his, long hours and broken promises are part of the territory.
As Vince and Sara get closer, can their relationship survive the demands of the Marine Corps and her past coming back to haunt her?
If you like captivating chemistry, realistic military romance, and loyal friendships, then you’ll love this unputdownable series by Jess Mastorakos.
Forever with You is a sweet romance with a HEA set in the world of the San Diego Marines. Each book can be read as a standalone.
After being left at the altar, Sara came home to run her parents’ bookstore. She’s sworn off love, but as she gets to know the handsome Marine Recruiter who works next door, she can’t help but wonder if he might be just the man she always needed.
Sergeant Vince Moore is struck by Sara the moment he meets her. To win her love, he’ll have to show her he’s trustworthy and reliable. But with a job like his, long hours and broken promises are part of the territory.
As Vince and Sara get closer, can their relationship survive the demands of the Marine Corps and her past coming back to haunt her?
If you like captivating chemistry, realistic military romance, and loyal friendships, then you’ll love this unputdownable series by Jess Mastorakos.
Forever with You is a sweet romance with a HEA set in the world of the San Diego Marines. Each book can be read as a standalone.
136 pages, ebook
First published June 27, 2020
About the author
Jess Mastorakos
55 books714 followersJess Mastorakos writes sweet military romance books that feature heroes with heart and the strong women they love. She is a proud Marine wife and mama of four. She loves her coffee in a glitter tumbler and planning with an erasable pen.
Get a free novella from her San Diego Marines series, Forever with You, at the link below!
www.jessmastorakos.com/forever-with-you
Get a free novella from her San Diego Marines series, Forever with You, at the link below!
www.jessmastorakos.com/forever-with-you
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 8, 2021
I have mixed feelings about this story.
On the one hand I really liked Sara and Vince. Their personalities were enjoyable and it was interesting seeing the life of a Marine recruiting officer. I liked that Cooper was willing to step in and straighten out the trouble he had unknowingly caused. And Sara’s visit with Vince’s family was fun.
I didn’t like the details of the kisses or the mentions of a guy spending the night with a girl. And I got tired of the talk about how tight someone’s shirts were on him.
This is not a Christian book, but there was no swearing.
On the one hand I really liked Sara and Vince. Their personalities were enjoyable and it was interesting seeing the life of a Marine recruiting officer. I liked that Cooper was willing to step in and straighten out the trouble he had unknowingly caused. And Sara’s visit with Vince’s family was fun.
I didn’t like the details of the kisses or the mentions of a guy spending the night with a girl. And I got tired of the talk about how tight someone’s shirts were on him.
This is not a Christian book, but there was no swearing.
May 20, 2021
What a phenomenal series. I write this review after having already read some of the full length book in this series and I'm currently starting a reread of the whole series. I decided to start with the prequel this time. This prequel novella is just absolutely adorable. I love Vince's dedication to be steady and true for Sara after she's been hurt horribly by her previous relationship that was literally moments away from saying I do. I belive you can get this story for free when you sign up for the authors newsletter and I highly recommend it. Then keep reading the whole series because you won't be disappointed.
November 2, 2020
This was a great book about a cute couple. I really enjoyed this book.
February 24, 2025
Cute Marine romance novella. 3.5 stars
Plot- I was interested the entire time as the two MC’s relationship developed.
Characters- I really liked both of the well developed MCs. They were likable, level headed, and behaved in ways that I could relate to. Liking the MC’s is super important to me.
Writing Great! I enjoyed learning more about the life of a Marine, too.
Romance- Sweet romance that had a lot of heart. Low angst, low conflict, high communication. Usually I like it a little more dramatic and exciting, but this was a novella so it’s ok.
Chemistry was good as they got to know each other. I prefer a smidgen of sexiness, which this didn’t have. “Steamy clean” is my fave. This is definitely sweet clean, which is still nice.
Content-
Language- no swearing
Spice- clean. Just kissing.
Substance abuse- none
Cover- cute
POV- first person alternating dual POV
Cliffhanger- no
Format- free from author newletter
Plot- I was interested the entire time as the two MC’s relationship developed.
Characters- I really liked both of the well developed MCs. They were likable, level headed, and behaved in ways that I could relate to. Liking the MC’s is super important to me.
Writing Great! I enjoyed learning more about the life of a Marine, too.
Romance- Sweet romance that had a lot of heart. Low angst, low conflict, high communication. Usually I like it a little more dramatic and exciting, but this was a novella so it’s ok.
Chemistry was good as they got to know each other. I prefer a smidgen of sexiness, which this didn’t have. “Steamy clean” is my fave. This is definitely sweet clean, which is still nice.
Content-
Language- no swearing
Spice- clean. Just kissing.
Substance abuse- none
Cover- cute
POV- first person alternating dual POV
Cliffhanger- no
Format- free from author newletter
July 2, 2024
Another new to me author and this book was a novella sized prequel to her San Diego Marines series. It was cute and does do a nice set up for the next book. After reading some seriously awesome swoon worthy books prior to this - I'm feeling this is quite sweet and vanilla! I've never read a detailed marine life book so the setting was interesting!!! I think I got this book for free from the authors page and you can download to the kindle!?! Marine series up next on audio through Hoopla
December 18, 2022
Sweet Marine Romance
Aside from a few flippant comments about having a kid unmarried and spending the night with someone, I really liked this story, even if I do think the girl is just a teeny bit toxic, but she did face up to her faults and I do think she intends to change so I’ll hold my breath to find out if they work out in subsequent books 😁
Aside from a few flippant comments about having a kid unmarried and spending the night with someone, I really liked this story, even if I do think the girl is just a teeny bit toxic, but she did face up to her faults and I do think she intends to change so I’ll hold my breath to find out if they work out in subsequent books 😁
September 6, 2022
Sara and Vince were amazing! I really enjoyed getting to them! Can't wait to continue this series! 😊❤
May 7, 2021
2.5 stars rounded up to 3
Nice, fluffy, short. It basically felt compressed. I know that technically it is a noveletta (and a prequel to the entire series), but it felt more like a novel with a lot glossed over for the sake of word count, and I think it made it harder to become invested in the characters and what they went through. I also kind of got tired of numerous references to Vince's powerful biceps. Yeah, he is a Marine and he is ripped. I get it. Still, there were some new/future interesting characters introduced, and I enjoyed learning about Marines, so I might continue with the series.
Nice, fluffy, short. It basically felt compressed. I know that technically it is a noveletta (and a prequel to the entire series), but it felt more like a novel with a lot glossed over for the sake of word count, and I think it made it harder to become invested in the characters and what they went through. I also kind of got tired of numerous references to Vince's powerful biceps. Yeah, he is a Marine and he is ripped. I get it. Still, there were some new/future interesting characters introduced, and I enjoyed learning about Marines, so I might continue with the series.
May 30, 2021
This author is relatively new for me. After reading another book, I became a fan then she suggested this series. I loved it 💕💕👍💕
It was an easy read and sweet. Nothing negative- just compliments. Looking for the next book in the series.
Just for the record - I have a new appreciation for Recruiters. Not an easy job.
It was an easy read and sweet. Nothing negative- just compliments. Looking for the next book in the series.
Just for the record - I have a new appreciation for Recruiters. Not an easy job.
September 6, 2022
Such a sweet story between Sara and Vince. 💜
August 2, 2020
Cute, quick read. I wish it was a little bit longer. Hopefully Vince and Sara will be in other books. 🙂
December 3, 2020
The characters, situations and dialogue all seemed realistic.
She's got trust issues they both have to learn to overcome.
She's got trust issues they both have to learn to overcome.
November 9, 2020
Oh my! Hooked from the start. A chance meeting after her ex-fiance admitted to cheating on her the day of their supposed wedding. I loved the attraction and sparks between Sara and Vince. The characters are genuine and their emotions are real, absolutely loved the connection.
December 6, 2021
3 stars & 3/10 hearts. Okay, so I was warned beforehand that these books had a lot of content. But I thought I'd give them a try and see for myself. There was a lot of touching, kissing, hugging, and some noticing of physique; also mentions of having affairs, going home with a girl, & other sexual stuff like that. It wasn't huge but it was there. There was also a couple mentions of alcohol. I suppose it could be defined “clean” but it wasn't my type of “clean.”
That said, I appreciated seeing the job of a recruiter, which I have never seen before. Just that rounds my review up to 3 stars. The characters were nice enough, particularly Vince—I found it harder to like Sara, but that's just me. Also, she gave me a good misplaced modifier to chuckle over: « A TV was mounted on the wall that played a war movie. » I kinda collect those (I know, I'm a nerd...) and this one was particularly funny to me. #copyeditorhumour
In conclusion, if you don't mind lots of touching before engagement or even steady dating, and you like clean secular books, you'd probably like this one. I’d like to try these books again.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
That said, I appreciated seeing the job of a recruiter, which I have never seen before. Just that rounds my review up to 3 stars. The characters were nice enough, particularly Vince—I found it harder to like Sara, but that's just me. Also, she gave me a good misplaced modifier to chuckle over: « A TV was mounted on the wall that played a war movie. » I kinda collect those (I know, I'm a nerd...) and this one was particularly funny to me. #copyeditorhumour
In conclusion, if you don't mind lots of touching before engagement or even steady dating, and you like clean secular books, you'd probably like this one. I’d like to try these books again.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
June 28, 2020
Jess Mastorakos is a new to me author and after reading Forever With You, I definitely plan to read more. Forever With You is a cute, quick, clean novella that starts her San Diego Marines series.
Sara has returned home to San Diego after being left at the altar. She begins working at her parents bookstore which is next door to the Marine Corps Recruiting Office. A mystery book lover and a handsome Marine...now that is a story I can relate to. After quite an introduction, Sara and Vince get to know each other and quickly fall for one another. Can their relationship survive Vince's demanding career and Sara's past heartbreak? You'll have to read to find out.
As the wife of a retired Marine, I always love reading stories about my favorite group of guys in the world. She captured the true personality of a Marine and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. Readers are introduced in this story to the characters featured in the next in the series. I am interested to read Spencer and Ellie's story in Back to You.
Sara has returned home to San Diego after being left at the altar. She begins working at her parents bookstore which is next door to the Marine Corps Recruiting Office. A mystery book lover and a handsome Marine...now that is a story I can relate to. After quite an introduction, Sara and Vince get to know each other and quickly fall for one another. Can their relationship survive Vince's demanding career and Sara's past heartbreak? You'll have to read to find out.
As the wife of a retired Marine, I always love reading stories about my favorite group of guys in the world. She captured the true personality of a Marine and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. Readers are introduced in this story to the characters featured in the next in the series. I am interested to read Spencer and Ellie's story in Back to You.
July 22, 2021
I wasn't the biggest fan of this book. Things just didn't work for me here. Everything went super quick and I found it to be all over the place. I understand that the book was meant to be short, however it went so quick. I've read other shorter books, but the plot still went at a good pace that I barely noticed it was like 200-300 pages.
For lack of better words, I felt silly reading it. I would've DNF'ed, but it was short and I figured why not finish it. I thought that Sara was immature and annoying, and Vince was too good for her imo. Not that I stan him, but he was just better. I couldn't connect with the characters, nor the plot. I'm not sure what I expected, but I thought this was a novella/prequel to the series, so I thought that was why it was so short. Turns out that the next book (first of the series) is about another character. Overall, I didn't have the best time reading this. This book wasn't my cup of tea sadly.
For lack of better words, I felt silly reading it. I would've DNF'ed, but it was short and I figured why not finish it. I thought that Sara was immature and annoying, and Vince was too good for her imo. Not that I stan him, but he was just better. I couldn't connect with the characters, nor the plot. I'm not sure what I expected, but I thought this was a novella/prequel to the series, so I thought that was why it was so short. Turns out that the next book (first of the series) is about another character. Overall, I didn't have the best time reading this. This book wasn't my cup of tea sadly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2023
It was cute but it was too short & fast. There wasn’t a whole lot of plot other than their relationship. To be honest it was a little boring. I wanted more from their relationship and story. It just jumped from one thing to the next. With it only being around 100 pages, I didn’t expect anything super detailed, but it just was too fast of a story. I liked the characters, but they just didn’t get to develop because it’s such a short book. I think if it had more pages and a slower build of their relationship, it could’ve been better. I get it’s a series and this is a prequel, but based off a glimpse of the other books, this one is still a stand alone. So I’m judging it as a stand alone book. It wasn’t a bad book, it was a cute easy read, just not my fav.
August 14, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. Having been married to a Marine Corps recruiter many years ago, it especially interested me. I found the characters to be very well developed and I liked the story line. I think most people that like romance books would enjoy this one. It's a very easy read and worth the time spent reading it. I do recommend it.
October 11, 2020
I enjoyed reading the story about Vince and Sara and hope their story continues. Sara is slowing learning to trust after being left at the alter and Vince is winning her heart. The love story also starts to blossom for Spencer and Ellie.
July 27, 2020
Sweet story.
October 2, 2020
I read this book all in one evening, which never happens for this dyslexic person! It was good and made me happy to sit a read for a while. Very fast read too.
October 8, 2024
Forever With You is the prequel novella to the San Diego Marines series by Jess Mastorakos. After being left at the altar, Sara comes home to San Diego to help run her parent’s bookstore. She has sworn off love but when she meets Sergeant Vince Moore, the handsome Marine recruiter, who works next door, her heart begins to soften. Vince had been struck by Sara from the moment they met, knowing she has been hurt, he is determined to show her that he is trustworthy and reliable. First, they must navigate the long hours and broken promises that come with the territory of a Marine recruiter. Can their new relationship survive the demands of the Marine Corps? Can Sara put her past hurts behind her and see Vince as the right man for her?
I love books about the military. Whether it be historical, romance or general fiction, if it has a military man, I’m intrigued. I loved this quick, engaging read from Jess Mastorakos. It was a sweet, clean romance. I enjoyed Sara as she is battling heartbreak and just trying to live her life, convinced that she doesn’t need love. I loved Vince who is honorable and drawn to Sara. Their first meeting was funny and every encounter after is sweet and endearing. Even the few moments of misunderstanding were expected with the discussions and explanations afterward were realistic. I enjoyed the set up for future books. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to the rest of the series. If you enjoy clean romance with military men, I recommend Forever With You.
Forever With You is available in paperback and eBook
I love books about the military. Whether it be historical, romance or general fiction, if it has a military man, I’m intrigued. I loved this quick, engaging read from Jess Mastorakos. It was a sweet, clean romance. I enjoyed Sara as she is battling heartbreak and just trying to live her life, convinced that she doesn’t need love. I loved Vince who is honorable and drawn to Sara. Their first meeting was funny and every encounter after is sweet and endearing. Even the few moments of misunderstanding were expected with the discussions and explanations afterward were realistic. I enjoyed the set up for future books. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to the rest of the series. If you enjoy clean romance with military men, I recommend Forever With You.
Forever With You is available in paperback and eBook
January 22, 2021
I've read this book a few times and I'm instantly hooked every single time. This is a book for everyone regardless if you have prior knowledge of military life or not. I dove into this series head first without any military knowledge or background but the author explains things so well that I was never left questioning things that were happening and even feel like I have a stronger sense of the struggles those in the military go through now.
Vince met Sara while he was on recruiting duty and working extremely long hours. Sara's last relationship ended in a way that left her with trust issues and of course the limits of their relationship get tested. I found myself rooting for them every step of the way because it seemed at times that all odds were stacked against them but they kept pushing through. I love the creative ways they found to spend time together and how fiercely protective their friends are of them when things aren't going well. The ending absolutely melted my heart. I highly recommend this book, and the others that follow in the series.
Vince met Sara while he was on recruiting duty and working extremely long hours. Sara's last relationship ended in a way that left her with trust issues and of course the limits of their relationship get tested. I found myself rooting for them every step of the way because it seemed at times that all odds were stacked against them but they kept pushing through. I love the creative ways they found to spend time together and how fiercely protective their friends are of them when things aren't going well. The ending absolutely melted my heart. I highly recommend this book, and the others that follow in the series.
November 2, 2020
After being cheated on by her fiancé, Sara has deep trust issues. When she finally meets Vince, she mistrusts him easily and jumps to conclusions whenever she feels insecure, giving him neither the time nor the chance to explain the situations. Understanding the roots of her reactions, Vince is initially very considerate, but after several months, her issues drive a wedge in their relationship. Sara has to be willing to believe in Vince and start judging him depending on his character and not by her former fiancé’s.
I can imagine how hard it must be to heal from such deep hurts. However, like everything else, one cannot let fear dictate one’s life. This story reminds me of how important letting go and moving forward is.
I can imagine how hard it must be to heal from such deep hurts. However, like everything else, one cannot let fear dictate one’s life. This story reminds me of how important letting go and moving forward is.
August 4, 2021
Clean book for all ages. It does give you a glimpse into the life of a Marine recruiter.
Sara was hurt on her wedding day by her cheating fiance. It left her angry not only with him but herself also. She moved to San Diego where her parents own and run a bookstore with a coffee bar. She meets Vince when he spills coffee all over her.
Vince is the New recruiter to his office. Its not an easy job but he has to do it. He is not adjusting very well. He is instantly attracted to Sara.
Can Vince win Sara over and if so can their relationship survive his at times very demanding career? Grab the book and join the adventure. Its a great one to be on.
Sara was hurt on her wedding day by her cheating fiance. It left her angry not only with him but herself also. She moved to San Diego where her parents own and run a bookstore with a coffee bar. She meets Vince when he spills coffee all over her.
Vince is the New recruiter to his office. Its not an easy job but he has to do it. He is not adjusting very well. He is instantly attracted to Sara.
Can Vince win Sara over and if so can their relationship survive his at times very demanding career? Grab the book and join the adventure. Its a great one to be on.
January 15, 2022
I started and I HAD to stay put until this book was completed - fabulous story with all the feels! Sara has major trust issues (understandable!) and Vince is distracted by her on their very first encounter at the bookshop cafe.
I really enjoyed the journey with these two characters plus all the side characters (some of whom will get their own stories) who made me laugh (Connor and Angie).
Interesting to learn what life is like in the American Marines - not for the fainted hearted!
Look forward to reading more of this series as I want to find out how some of the other relationships develop after this prequel.
I really enjoyed the journey with these two characters plus all the side characters (some of whom will get their own stories) who made me laugh (Connor and Angie).
Interesting to learn what life is like in the American Marines - not for the fainted hearted!
Look forward to reading more of this series as I want to find out how some of the other relationships develop after this prequel.
August 9, 2022
“There are so many things I want to do with you. Paperwork isn’t one of them.” Whew! Get it Vince!🔥🥰
I love it when the guy is rendered speechless during a meet-cute. And what a meet-cute it was 😂 I had secondhand embarrassment from that awkward attempt by Vince to get Sara's number 😂 The coffee dates that followed though, so cute! That first kiss just took my breath away. So good 😍
Definitely taking notes from Angie on how to get away with murder 😂 can't wait to read her book.
I've read about Marines in action so it was interesting to see the recruitment side of it. This was a sweet prequel and first book I've read from this author. I'm so excited to read the rest 😄
I love it when the guy is rendered speechless during a meet-cute. And what a meet-cute it was 😂 I had secondhand embarrassment from that awkward attempt by Vince to get Sara's number 😂 The coffee dates that followed though, so cute! That first kiss just took my breath away. So good 😍
Definitely taking notes from Angie on how to get away with murder 😂 can't wait to read her book.
I've read about Marines in action so it was interesting to see the recruitment side of it. This was a sweet prequel and first book I've read from this author. I'm so excited to read the rest 😄
May 31, 2021
Low angst, G-rated, military-romance novella
This is a military romance set in San Diego, California, between two twenty-somethings, Vince, a Marine recruiter, and Sara, a woman who works for her parents' bookstore. It is a short, sweet, instalove romance, which is understandable, given that this is a novella without sufficient word count to allow for melodramatic complications--something I, for one, don't miss it all.
Vince and Sara are both sympathetic, admirable characters, and their love story is a fast read. It is true to the conventions of the romance genre because it is written from the dual point of view of both protagonists, they are on stage together the vast majority of the story, the book focuses almost entirely on their romance, and there is a satisfying HEA.
This is a military romance set in San Diego, California, between two twenty-somethings, Vince, a Marine recruiter, and Sara, a woman who works for her parents' bookstore. It is a short, sweet, instalove romance, which is understandable, given that this is a novella without sufficient word count to allow for melodramatic complications--something I, for one, don't miss it all.
Vince and Sara are both sympathetic, admirable characters, and their love story is a fast read. It is true to the conventions of the romance genre because it is written from the dual point of view of both protagonists, they are on stage together the vast majority of the story, the book focuses almost entirely on their romance, and there is a satisfying HEA.
April 18, 2022
💭 : First book in the San Diego marines series by the author, a short simple and beautiful read. I really liked how the characters are portrayed and how they grow together as a couple. The author has done a good job with the characters navigating through their relationship conflicts. The writing is very lucid and doesn't drag you along with unnecessary details at all. The story also provides some insights into the life of a US Marine recruiting officer.
Overall, a beautiful, sweet and enjoyable military romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews