What do you think?
Rate this book
It Was Always Her
Bruce Meyer is sent back in time to prevent the Third World War. He does not know that he will find the love of his life in the past. Can he give her up to save the world?
It Was Always Her is a gripping tale about love, sacrifice, and the impossible choices faced by a man given a second chance. This story will take you on a captivating journey which will leave you asking, “What do I value most in my life?”
"Our lives are spent building castles in the sand. Large or small, grandiose or simple, it is inconsequential—all washed away when the tide comes in. Nothing lasts. Nothing endures. To love and be loved, it is the only thing that is real...the only thing that matters to me now."
It Was Always Her is a gripping tale about love, sacrifice, and the impossible choices faced by a man given a second chance. This story will take you on a captivating journey which will leave you asking, “What do I value most in my life?”
"Our lives are spent building castles in the sand. Large or small, grandiose or simple, it is inconsequential—all washed away when the tide comes in. Nothing lasts. Nothing endures. To love and be loved, it is the only thing that is real...the only thing that matters to me now."
326 pages, Paperback
Published July 7, 2021
6 people are currently reading
5298 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Witterick
6 books190 followersJ.L. Witterick is the international best-selling author of the novel, My Mother’s Secret, which has been translated into 10 languages. Her books are used in schools around the world to teach courage, tolerance, and understanding. Writing is a passion for her, and she is happy to donate books to schools and book clubs. It is a joy for her to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds through her novels.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 14, 2021
Tom Waites, aka Bruce Meyer is the wealthiest person in the world and he is chosen to time travel from 2025 to 1985 to stop events that could be a world disaster. Rachel Lee, a girl that he met in 1985, to stop her from being killed and she is make sure she marries Jack Campbell and help him on the path to becoming President, which he is in 2025.
Bruce falls in love with Rachel but does nothing about it as he can't because it would change the future. There are a lot of plot twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the pages. I was always rooting for Bruce and hoped that he would get his lady, Rachel. Jack was obsessed with getting a scholarship and having a relationship with Rachel and had no plans for becoming president but that is what Bruce is there to see that that does happen. Jack becomes arrogant and resentful as president.
I really enjoyed the book, it was not what I was expecting, the ending really blew me away, but then It Was Always Her. This is a story of not only of sacrifices and love but of choices that can change things. Time travel, love and a compelling plot. What else is needed for a great read? I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of the book from the author for review purposes.
Bruce falls in love with Rachel but does nothing about it as he can't because it would change the future. There are a lot of plot twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the pages. I was always rooting for Bruce and hoped that he would get his lady, Rachel. Jack was obsessed with getting a scholarship and having a relationship with Rachel and had no plans for becoming president but that is what Bruce is there to see that that does happen. Jack becomes arrogant and resentful as president.
I really enjoyed the book, it was not what I was expecting, the ending really blew me away, but then It Was Always Her. This is a story of not only of sacrifices and love but of choices that can change things. Time travel, love and a compelling plot. What else is needed for a great read? I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of the book from the author for review purposes.
June 10, 2022
So, I’m going to go way against the popular vote here. This book was just ok for me. The concept was a good one - going back in time to change events and save the one you love. However I found the writing to be very simplistic. I easily could have finished this book in one sitting and not because I was hooked. I have read books by other authors who used multiple people to tell the story. However, when switching between characters, this author used the very same sentences. I really didn’t feel that enhanced the story at all and actually found it a bit boring. The ending seemed predictable as well. Meh!
August 24, 2021
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and I am thankful that I did. I was interested from the very beginning and never grew bored with the plot! I will definitely read more from this author.
July 9, 2021
I love J.L. Witterick's writing style. It's clean and easy to read, yet manages to tug at your heart. Her first novel, "My Mother's Secret", inspired me to read this book, and I'm glad I did. It's a love story but not sappy, and I learned about the the stock market as well. Totally unexpected. I think this book will surprise in how it appeals to both men and women.
August 6, 2021
WOW! Swept along on a ride of a lifetime and what ifs!
Expect the unexpected as you travel along with Bruce Meyer. Will he save the girl? How will that change history? Experience a moving love story that carries you away and deftly tries to defy all the obstacles in their way! A quick read. Loved the tie-ins to the author’s present day life, especially the significance of the bracelet, so touching! Can’t wait to read more of her work!
Expect the unexpected as you travel along with Bruce Meyer. Will he save the girl? How will that change history? Experience a moving love story that carries you away and deftly tries to defy all the obstacles in their way! A quick read. Loved the tie-ins to the author’s present day life, especially the significance of the bracelet, so touching! Can’t wait to read more of her work!
October 3, 2021
It Was Always Her takes place in 2025 with back time travel to 1985.
Our world is at war and the United State president is the presumed culprit. The wealthiest person in the country, Tom Waites, aka Bruce Meyer, is a tech genius and invents a time travel to change the events that ultimately would lead to global disaster. He becomes the saver by altering the events in 1985. He takes his biological self, and persuades the one woman, Rachel Lee, who can help humanity by marrying the future president, Jack Campbell. Bruce falls in love with Rachel but keeps his feelings professional while protecting her throughout the years ahead.
I normally do not read science fiction or time-travel novels but J.L. Witterick manages to captivate attention from beginning to end. The futurism and back story are explained well to the reader without inundating with tech terms.
Intertwined with changing the future is a love story which is told in a manner that we know love exists without having an overwhelming overtone. The conclusion was not anticipated, and I wondered whether Bruce Meyer knew the conclusion before it occurred.
I highly recommend It Was Always Her for an enjoyable read.
Our world is at war and the United State president is the presumed culprit. The wealthiest person in the country, Tom Waites, aka Bruce Meyer, is a tech genius and invents a time travel to change the events that ultimately would lead to global disaster. He becomes the saver by altering the events in 1985. He takes his biological self, and persuades the one woman, Rachel Lee, who can help humanity by marrying the future president, Jack Campbell. Bruce falls in love with Rachel but keeps his feelings professional while protecting her throughout the years ahead.
I normally do not read science fiction or time-travel novels but J.L. Witterick manages to captivate attention from beginning to end. The futurism and back story are explained well to the reader without inundating with tech terms.
Intertwined with changing the future is a love story which is told in a manner that we know love exists without having an overwhelming overtone. The conclusion was not anticipated, and I wondered whether Bruce Meyer knew the conclusion before it occurred.
I highly recommend It Was Always Her for an enjoyable read.
July 23, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley for the book in exchange for an honest review.
This was 100% mis-categorized by NetGalley. It got thrown into YA & Teen and shouldn’t have been there. The teen section isn’t what carries the book. It’s adult fiction. So I’m already annoyed.
Now that I’ve got that off my chest, this book could have been 2 stars. The premise was interesting. The writing was simple enough. But the story never carried any weight. I never cared about any of the characters and every POV had the same cadence, the same information, the same boring, plodding tone.
There was a lot of promise here. The premise sounds interesting. The first chapter I read before downloading the book caught my attention. Unfortunately the first chapter is the only interesting chapter.
The remainder of the book follows 3 main characters. Bruce, Jack and Rachel. They do nothing interesting for 90% of the book. We’re told about basketball games in high school and family dinners but we don’t experience these dinners. There is a distinct lack of emotion and details on every page. I don’t think the senses are ever engaged. We don’t read about pounding hearts or nervous laughter. We don’t smell the family dinner or hear the lilt of their accents. It’s all bland. The whole book is like this. We’re told the story as if it’s been censored by a prison guard who doesn’t want us to have any joy in daily activities.
Even Bruce’s big reveal to Rachel is anti-climatic and boring. She takes it well and they move on. There’s no moment of questioning. There’s no lightheartedness of joking about him having a fever or being delusional. It’s all blank faced acceptance.
The story skips ahead and we’re left with mundane details of the President’s life. We’re so detached from the story it’s boring. We’re just waiting to see what happens and when the big thing happens I found myself mentally shrugging and saying ‘who cares’.
There’s no emotion when there’s an affair happening. There’s no emotion when old friends are visited. There’s no emotion ever. No one gets mad. No one cries. No one laughs. No one does ANYTHING throughout the entire book.
The story just plods on and on and then it’s over. Little is resolved. Nothing has changed from the first few chapters. There has been no character growth. No defining moment where you sat back and said ‘Wow. I want to talk to someone about this book.’ There’s no substance here. It’s like someone turned the TV on for background noise and every once in a while you look up and see a scene that catches your attention for a few seconds, but it’s not interesting enough to keep you watching.
Despite all that I had been prepared to give this book 2 stars. It wasn't that bad. Despite being boring it was well written. Until it wasn't. Showing the same scene from different POVs is pointless when you don’t divulge anything new in those scenes. Putting this tactic in your story more than once is an auto 1 star from me. Sorry, not sorry.
I don’t know if this is an early and rough version of the story (I’ve come across that before on NetGalley with independently published novels - which this novel is) but it needs a lot more. More fluffing of scenes. More emotion. More heart. MORE ANYTHING. Goodreads tells me this was a 326 page novel. It could have used another 50 to beef it up and make it have substance.
This was 100% mis-categorized by NetGalley. It got thrown into YA & Teen and shouldn’t have been there. The teen section isn’t what carries the book. It’s adult fiction. So I’m already annoyed.
Now that I’ve got that off my chest, this book could have been 2 stars. The premise was interesting. The writing was simple enough. But the story never carried any weight. I never cared about any of the characters and every POV had the same cadence, the same information, the same boring, plodding tone.
There was a lot of promise here. The premise sounds interesting. The first chapter I read before downloading the book caught my attention. Unfortunately the first chapter is the only interesting chapter.
The remainder of the book follows 3 main characters. Bruce, Jack and Rachel. They do nothing interesting for 90% of the book. We’re told about basketball games in high school and family dinners but we don’t experience these dinners. There is a distinct lack of emotion and details on every page. I don’t think the senses are ever engaged. We don’t read about pounding hearts or nervous laughter. We don’t smell the family dinner or hear the lilt of their accents. It’s all bland. The whole book is like this. We’re told the story as if it’s been censored by a prison guard who doesn’t want us to have any joy in daily activities.
Even Bruce’s big reveal to Rachel is anti-climatic and boring. She takes it well and they move on. There’s no moment of questioning. There’s no lightheartedness of joking about him having a fever or being delusional. It’s all blank faced acceptance.
The story skips ahead and we’re left with mundane details of the President’s life. We’re so detached from the story it’s boring. We’re just waiting to see what happens and when the big thing happens I found myself mentally shrugging and saying ‘who cares’.
There’s no emotion when there’s an affair happening. There’s no emotion when old friends are visited. There’s no emotion ever. No one gets mad. No one cries. No one laughs. No one does ANYTHING throughout the entire book.
The story just plods on and on and then it’s over. Little is resolved. Nothing has changed from the first few chapters. There has been no character growth. No defining moment where you sat back and said ‘Wow. I want to talk to someone about this book.’ There’s no substance here. It’s like someone turned the TV on for background noise and every once in a while you look up and see a scene that catches your attention for a few seconds, but it’s not interesting enough to keep you watching.
Despite all that I had been prepared to give this book 2 stars. It wasn't that bad. Despite being boring it was well written. Until it wasn't. Showing the same scene from different POVs is pointless when you don’t divulge anything new in those scenes. Putting this tactic in your story more than once is an auto 1 star from me. Sorry, not sorry.
I don’t know if this is an early and rough version of the story (I’ve come across that before on NetGalley with independently published novels - which this novel is) but it needs a lot more. More fluffing of scenes. More emotion. More heart. MORE ANYTHING. Goodreads tells me this was a 326 page novel. It could have used another 50 to beef it up and make it have substance.
January 5, 2022
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley. I was intrigued by the plot, and even though I was unfamiliar with the author, it sounded worth reading. I have mixed feelings now that I have read it. I loved the plot. It was thought-provoking and memorable, with a strong dose of romance.
I don’t want to ruin the plot so I won’t go into detail. The characters were multi-dimensional, with real feelings and motivations. It was the narrative that bothered me. About one-third of the way through the book, I almost stopped reading. I found the narrative to be boring, with few conversations, descriptions of feelings rather than actions demonstrating them, and a lot of filler (in my opinion).
The story starts out from the POV of Tom Waites. For unexplained reasons, Tom Waites is omnipresent and omniscient. He not only relates conversations, he also relates the feelings of those participating. In chapter 24, the POV changes to Bruce Meyer’s. Chapter 31 is Rachel Lee. Chapter 32 is Jack Campbell. Then, it’s back to Bruce, Rachel, Jack, Katherine St. Clair, Rachel, Jack, Rachel, Frank Walsh, Katherine, Rachel, and Bruce. If that’s not confusing enough, many times when the POV changed, the same scene was described from the new POV, with the same dialogue, but different feelings expressed by the person experiencing it. Changing the POV after 23 chapters of just the one (Tom) was jarring and made me turn back to figure out what had happened. Switching back and forth was irritating. There was also the jump in time without much of a transition that took the reader from the past to the present. The reason this was so confusing was because the entire novel was told in the present-tense.
I enjoyed the theme of the book, the realization that we mere humans are kidding ourselves if we think we can change destiny. Because the narrative was so matter-of-fact, I never really connected with any of the characters and felt their pain. This was unfortunate because the idea of selflessly separated soulmates could have been a serious tear-jerker. Instead, it was just another fact of the story; nothing more. I wish the author had been able to engage my emotions. If not for the exceptionally fascinating plot, I would probably give the book only one or two stars.
I don’t want to ruin the plot so I won’t go into detail. The characters were multi-dimensional, with real feelings and motivations. It was the narrative that bothered me. About one-third of the way through the book, I almost stopped reading. I found the narrative to be boring, with few conversations, descriptions of feelings rather than actions demonstrating them, and a lot of filler (in my opinion).
The story starts out from the POV of Tom Waites. For unexplained reasons, Tom Waites is omnipresent and omniscient. He not only relates conversations, he also relates the feelings of those participating. In chapter 24, the POV changes to Bruce Meyer’s. Chapter 31 is Rachel Lee. Chapter 32 is Jack Campbell. Then, it’s back to Bruce, Rachel, Jack, Katherine St. Clair, Rachel, Jack, Rachel, Frank Walsh, Katherine, Rachel, and Bruce. If that’s not confusing enough, many times when the POV changed, the same scene was described from the new POV, with the same dialogue, but different feelings expressed by the person experiencing it. Changing the POV after 23 chapters of just the one (Tom) was jarring and made me turn back to figure out what had happened. Switching back and forth was irritating. There was also the jump in time without much of a transition that took the reader from the past to the present. The reason this was so confusing was because the entire novel was told in the present-tense.
I enjoyed the theme of the book, the realization that we mere humans are kidding ourselves if we think we can change destiny. Because the narrative was so matter-of-fact, I never really connected with any of the characters and felt their pain. This was unfortunate because the idea of selflessly separated soulmates could have been a serious tear-jerker. Instead, it was just another fact of the story; nothing more. I wish the author had been able to engage my emotions. If not for the exceptionally fascinating plot, I would probably give the book only one or two stars.
August 19, 2021
In a compelling tale filled with romance and self-sacrifice “It Was Always Her” opens in the year 2025 with “Project Yesterday” as Bruce Meyer ( aka Tom Waites) is swept back in time to stop the killing of President Jack Campbell and end the Third World War. Bruce is ordered by General George Emmerson, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs to save Rachel Lee the President’s high school girlfriend and his intended wife if she hadn’t been killed at the high school prom in 1985. As the plot twists and turns you wonder if Bruce will not only complete his mission but have to sacrifice his personal goal to find the love he thought lost.
Fast-paced and intriguing, suspense builds as romantic tension is spawned between Rachel and Bruce especially when he’s hurt protecting Jack against number 17 and his cronies and has to stay with her family to recuperate while later a simple bracelet brings her memories of a lost love. Emotional tension is amplified with every plot twist, especially after Jack becomes the President and Bruce learns his true identity. Combining sci-fi adventure with a close look at love, friendship and the loss of both, the author takes the reader on an riveting journey that keeps you glued to every page. All too quickly this well-written story flows seamlessly to an exciting climax.
Among a host of complex characters are West Point Cadet Bruce Meyer (aka rich entrepreneur Tom Waites) who has to make a decision to rescue the future over saving his parents. Lonely after his parents are killed in the war Bruce’s assets - his cleverness, ingenuity and sharp instincts- are called into play when he’s sought after for a mission that will take him back in time. Jack Campbell at high school is a loyal friend whose focus is centered on his relationship with Rachel and getting a basketball scholarship although in the years ahead he will become jealous, resentful and arrogant. Rachel Lee is kind, gentle, resilient and optimistic. Loving two men, she stores away her feelings for the second.
I thoroughly enjoyed “ It Was Always Her” , an entertaining story about love, choices and self-sacrifice.
Fast-paced and intriguing, suspense builds as romantic tension is spawned between Rachel and Bruce especially when he’s hurt protecting Jack against number 17 and his cronies and has to stay with her family to recuperate while later a simple bracelet brings her memories of a lost love. Emotional tension is amplified with every plot twist, especially after Jack becomes the President and Bruce learns his true identity. Combining sci-fi adventure with a close look at love, friendship and the loss of both, the author takes the reader on an riveting journey that keeps you glued to every page. All too quickly this well-written story flows seamlessly to an exciting climax.
Among a host of complex characters are West Point Cadet Bruce Meyer (aka rich entrepreneur Tom Waites) who has to make a decision to rescue the future over saving his parents. Lonely after his parents are killed in the war Bruce’s assets - his cleverness, ingenuity and sharp instincts- are called into play when he’s sought after for a mission that will take him back in time. Jack Campbell at high school is a loyal friend whose focus is centered on his relationship with Rachel and getting a basketball scholarship although in the years ahead he will become jealous, resentful and arrogant. Rachel Lee is kind, gentle, resilient and optimistic. Loving two men, she stores away her feelings for the second.
I thoroughly enjoyed “ It Was Always Her” , an entertaining story about love, choices and self-sacrifice.
September 30, 2021
I won this book in a Goodreads' Giveaway.
I love how the author describes COVID-19 and how the after effects of such a pandemic, along with a drought that prevented the crops from growing, were leading factors for why World War III started. This book was published 2019, which means, where COVID-19 was concerned, things were only just getting started. The author couldn’t have known truly how bad it would get and how far it was going to spread.
The writing style in this was a bit weird. In the first half of the book, the author would be writing from one person’s perspective, only to suddenly give us a sentence or two about what was going on in one of the other characters heads before going back to the main character. This made things slightly hard to follow at times. In the second half, the author would start by writing a scene by one characters point-of-view, and then the next chapter she would repeat the same scene but from somebody else’s point-of-view. This happened a several times in the last half of the book and, in my opinion, it didn’t add much to the story.
I also didn’t like Jack much at first. It was probably just normal “teen boy talk” but I found a lot of his comments rude during the high school scenes. Things like calling salads a “girl's meal” or that “veggie burgers aren’t real burgers”. A lot of these little jabs also seemed to be in reference to his girlfriend as well. Like most people, he did grow out of this though, at least up until they started having troubles in there marriage.
I liked that the author still had Jack develop feelings for Katherine even though Bruce changed the past so he could end up with Rachel. I don’t condone cheating, but it was a way for history to attempt to fix itself from the changes that were being made.
I don’t understand why the author seemed to be hinting about the war still being on the horizon at the end. The elements that led up to the war in the original timeline had been put a stop to. Sure, a war could start up for another reason entirely, but why were Rachel and Bruce acting like it was definitely in the coming future?
I love how the author describes COVID-19 and how the after effects of such a pandemic, along with a drought that prevented the crops from growing, were leading factors for why World War III started. This book was published 2019, which means, where COVID-19 was concerned, things were only just getting started. The author couldn’t have known truly how bad it would get and how far it was going to spread.
The writing style in this was a bit weird. In the first half of the book, the author would be writing from one person’s perspective, only to suddenly give us a sentence or two about what was going on in one of the other characters heads before going back to the main character. This made things slightly hard to follow at times. In the second half, the author would start by writing a scene by one characters point-of-view, and then the next chapter she would repeat the same scene but from somebody else’s point-of-view. This happened a several times in the last half of the book and, in my opinion, it didn’t add much to the story.
I also didn’t like Jack much at first. It was probably just normal “teen boy talk” but I found a lot of his comments rude during the high school scenes. Things like calling salads a “girl's meal” or that “veggie burgers aren’t real burgers”. A lot of these little jabs also seemed to be in reference to his girlfriend as well. Like most people, he did grow out of this though, at least up until they started having troubles in there marriage.
I liked that the author still had Jack develop feelings for Katherine even though Bruce changed the past so he could end up with Rachel. I don’t condone cheating, but it was a way for history to attempt to fix itself from the changes that were being made.
I don’t understand why the author seemed to be hinting about the war still being on the horizon at the end. The elements that led up to the war in the original timeline had been put a stop to. Sure, a war could start up for another reason entirely, but why were Rachel and Bruce acting like it was definitely in the coming future?
March 10, 2025
Ok book. Decent premise and characters. I dunno I think this one’s just me and no one will agree but, why even write this book? The answer is her. Always her. Yes, sacrifice the whole planet for her who give af…if she is ok that is all that matters.
The most brilliant and amazing person I’ve ever met used one of my favorite quotes I’ll ever hear
“Get yourself a villain. A hero will sacrifice you to save the world but, a villain would sacrifice the entire world to save you.”
She always was too good for me and I like to think she finally realized that and is living a good life even if it’s a lie. But, I lost her before I was ever able to show her the depth of my love. That it was her. The choice was her. Always. A million percent. I would never have to even consider if I would pick someone/everything/anything over her. It’s not something that would have crossed my mind because I’ve known since the first night that I’d choose her over everyone and everything including myself.
She made the decision for me in the end but, I think she believed I had made it. Now that I see it. The position she was in. I can’t imagine how hard it was for her…the fear if she told me that I’d choose something over her….and she’d be hurt more than just emotionally…my god my love…If only I could tell her that it would and will always be you. Always. Without a second to question. We’d be together and you’d be ok if I knew. But, it’s not too late I hope….with little hope….
It’s always been you. Over everyone. And it wouldn’t bother me for a second,
I don’t know if you’ve realized that I’ve proven that I put you before me and will give my life for you but you will see. I meant every word I said when it came to my love for you….her….shell never see this or me again….her plane ticket to me and ours to Cuba just gets more faded and dust covered by the second but, it’s all the hope I have left in this world. With the fading of that ink so fades my hope, soul…and humanity.
The most brilliant and amazing person I’ve ever met used one of my favorite quotes I’ll ever hear
“Get yourself a villain. A hero will sacrifice you to save the world but, a villain would sacrifice the entire world to save you.”
She always was too good for me and I like to think she finally realized that and is living a good life even if it’s a lie. But, I lost her before I was ever able to show her the depth of my love. That it was her. The choice was her. Always. A million percent. I would never have to even consider if I would pick someone/everything/anything over her. It’s not something that would have crossed my mind because I’ve known since the first night that I’d choose her over everyone and everything including myself.
She made the decision for me in the end but, I think she believed I had made it. Now that I see it. The position she was in. I can’t imagine how hard it was for her…the fear if she told me that I’d choose something over her….and she’d be hurt more than just emotionally…my god my love…If only I could tell her that it would and will always be you. Always. Without a second to question. We’d be together and you’d be ok if I knew. But, it’s not too late I hope….with little hope….
It’s always been you. Over everyone. And it wouldn’t bother me for a second,
I don’t know if you’ve realized that I’ve proven that I put you before me and will give my life for you but you will see. I meant every word I said when it came to my love for you….her….shell never see this or me again….her plane ticket to me and ours to Cuba just gets more faded and dust covered by the second but, it’s all the hope I have left in this world. With the fading of that ink so fades my hope, soul…and humanity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2025
It Was Always Her is an emotional and imaginative time travel romance that blends suspense, destiny, and difficult moral choices. J.L. Witterick crafts a story where the stakes are both global and deeply personal: Bruce Meyer is sent back in time to prevent World War III, only to discover the love of his life in the past. This premise sets the stage for a novel rooted in longing, sacrifice, and the tension between duty and desire.
Witterick’s writing shines in its introspective moments. Themes of impermanence, love’s enduring power, and the fragile nature of human choice run through the narrative like a quiet echo. Readers are drawn not only into Bruce’s mission but also into the emotional gravity of having to choose between saving millions and holding onto the person who completes him.
A heartfelt, reflective, and cinematic read perfect for fans of romantic speculative fiction and stories that ask what we are willing to risk for the people we love.
Witterick’s writing shines in its introspective moments. Themes of impermanence, love’s enduring power, and the fragile nature of human choice run through the narrative like a quiet echo. Readers are drawn not only into Bruce’s mission but also into the emotional gravity of having to choose between saving millions and holding onto the person who completes him.
A heartfelt, reflective, and cinematic read perfect for fans of romantic speculative fiction and stories that ask what we are willing to risk for the people we love.
October 5, 2021
Having loved “My Mother’s Secret”, I was anxious to read J.L. Wittetick’s latest novel “It Was Always Her”. I entered the Goodreads Giveaway but imagine my surprise when I received a message from the author asking for my address & then receiving an autographed copy in the mail. Like I said, I loved her first book and she may have seen my review.
This novel was a complete departure from her previous WWII historical fiction story. An interesting story of time travel and the results of changing the trajectory of history and it’s effects on the lives of the three main characters, Bruce, Jack and Rachel…and the world. It’s a story of friendship, secrets, loyalty and love. This short one day read was a great way to escape for a few hours that didn’t require any heavy lifting on my part…it may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I liked it and want to thank J.L. Witterick for sending me a copy!
This novel was a complete departure from her previous WWII historical fiction story. An interesting story of time travel and the results of changing the trajectory of history and it’s effects on the lives of the three main characters, Bruce, Jack and Rachel…and the world. It’s a story of friendship, secrets, loyalty and love. This short one day read was a great way to escape for a few hours that didn’t require any heavy lifting on my part…it may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I liked it and want to thank J.L. Witterick for sending me a copy!
February 8, 2022
I’m a sucker for a good time travel book, but sadly, this is not one of them. There is no explanation of how the time travel takes place, no details of any preparation at all. It’s just a rather hokey romance novel with a slight twist. The writing is quite immature, the characters are under-developed, and the plot line is lame. I liked the characters well enough, but felt no real connection to any of them. I appreciated the fact that Bruce and Jack were friends, not rivals, in high school. A little more explanation of Jack’s rise to the presidency might have been helpful, but then again, those kinds of details are probably immaterial in a romance novel. I also appreciated the complete absence of profanity and sexual content. Probably some people will like this book, but overall, it just wasn’t for me.
September 21, 2023
Loved it! Didn't think I would, but I do!
It Was Always Her has me thinking above life, destiny, and fate in a whole different way. I went in thinking this would be 3.5 stars but finished at 5 stars.
I did the audio book. The narrator perfectly matched the tone and mood.
Now, this book may not be for everyone because there are a lot of sidebars.....individual characters and their back stories. I feel author Witterick does a good job helping readers organize all of the rich information.
In addition, some may may become annoyed with redundancies throughout. Yes, these instances slow the plot, but the perspectives given add to the rich information. You are presented with more than one perspective on an event. I welcome that.
Overall, this is a thoughtful, well-planned, and executed story on time travel and consequences of it.
It Was Always Her has me thinking above life, destiny, and fate in a whole different way. I went in thinking this would be 3.5 stars but finished at 5 stars.
I did the audio book. The narrator perfectly matched the tone and mood.
Now, this book may not be for everyone because there are a lot of sidebars.....individual characters and their back stories. I feel author Witterick does a good job helping readers organize all of the rich information.
In addition, some may may become annoyed with redundancies throughout. Yes, these instances slow the plot, but the perspectives given add to the rich information. You are presented with more than one perspective on an event. I welcome that.
Overall, this is a thoughtful, well-planned, and executed story on time travel and consequences of it.
October 7, 2021
The book is a bit cheeky. The premise is a bit Back to the Future meets Camelot the Kennedy Years. Bruce is a cadet at West Point during WW3 that breaks out after a pandemic (COVID) and a group of people are interested in assonating the President of the US because they blame him for the was and lack of action on behalf of the US. Tim Waites suggests an alternate plan, send back someone to 1985 to change the course of history by saving a young lady that will assist in guiding the president in policies. The book brings up some interesting premises in terms of the changes, love denied and forcing people to do what you believe will change outcomes. Quick and easy read.
August 14, 2021
This book makes you think of the future and what might be. It also covers what could happen if one went back in time and chose a different path. Bruce is the person that goes from 2025 back to 1985. It is fascinating to think about the effects of a second chance and the3 direction that one might take or the outcomes from that direction. It is a very easy read and almost seemed sophomoric at times. I had to check to see if I was reading a book at my level. Thank you to Goodreads and the author as this was a giveaway reward.
October 28, 2021
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway and I am so glad that I did! I thought this book was predictable during the first half but man was I wrong. There were lots of surprises I didn’t see coming. I was hooked the entire time I was reading and the ending left me R E E L I N G.
It’s an extremely interesting plot & was executed in a unique way—with multiple points of view. Very thought-provoking as well. Definitely not what I expected going into it, but I can’t say I’m disappointed! I really enjoyed it.
It’s an extremely interesting plot & was executed in a unique way—with multiple points of view. Very thought-provoking as well. Definitely not what I expected going into it, but I can’t say I’m disappointed! I really enjoyed it.
September 3, 2021
This is not the type of book I usually read, I am more of a historical fiction reader but I enjoyed this book. It is from the perspectives of several characters but mostly of Jack Campbell, Rachel Lee, and Bruce Meyer. The story is set in 2025 and a man is sent back in time to stop a war. I enjoyed the story and hearing the story for several different characters point of view. I am looking forward to checking out other novels from this author.
October 13, 2021
This is not the type of book I would usually pick up to read, but I won it from Goodreads. I really enjoyed this book, once I started it Was hard to put it down. It was told from the characters of Jack Campbell, Rachel Lee, and Bruce Meyer (enjoyed the way each told their side of the story of a man is sent back in time to stop a war.) I enjoyed the story I am looking forward to checking out more novels by J.L. Witterick.
January 31, 2022
I won this book in Goodreads giveaway and received an author-signed copy.
Below is my review WITH some major SPOILERS.
Being someone who likes reading sci-fi, the premise was common but interesting - going back in time to try to fix what's wrong with the world, so it was easy to get into. Some of the descriptions were beautiful. I think the author got the overall plot points right, it was on the way from one plot point to the next which needed much more work.
Throughout the book these huge life-changing things happen to the characters and the characters just... roll with it - no questions asked, no emotions. For example - when Bruce is sent 30 years into the past with little notice, he just accepts it and starts living his life in the past as if he's just been sent to a different city. There was no time spent showing how he adjusts to life in the past - I can imagine n number of difficulties or little things that could have been discussed to make all of it seem more relatable. A similar lack of feelings on characters' parts happens when two of them emotionally cheat on their best friend/husband virtually their whole life, when the husband gets to know about the cheating, even when Bruce gets to know that he himself is Tom Waites from the future. I wish I could have felt connected to the characters, but I couldn't.
There were some things left unresolved too. We never get to know why/who blew up the major and the scientist in the original timeline after Bruce is sent back in time. I was waiting for this to somehow get tied up with the change in timeline.
Just a little factual incorrectness - Narendra Modi, the PM of India doesn't have a wife. Not a big deal, but something which irked me a little bit given I'm from India. This should have been an easy thing to check.
I get the conclusion though, that what happens has to happen, which in the story's case is a war that only got postponed, and the reasons for it changed.
In my opinion, this book and story would have felt much better if the characters had been portrayed to have some emotions and I could feel connected to them. It had most of the other ingredients for a sci-fi figured out.
Below is my review WITH some major SPOILERS.
Being someone who likes reading sci-fi, the premise was common but interesting - going back in time to try to fix what's wrong with the world, so it was easy to get into. Some of the descriptions were beautiful. I think the author got the overall plot points right, it was on the way from one plot point to the next which needed much more work.
Throughout the book these huge life-changing things happen to the characters and the characters just... roll with it - no questions asked, no emotions. For example - when Bruce is sent 30 years into the past with little notice, he just accepts it and starts living his life in the past as if he's just been sent to a different city. There was no time spent showing how he adjusts to life in the past - I can imagine n number of difficulties or little things that could have been discussed to make all of it seem more relatable. A similar lack of feelings on characters' parts happens when two of them emotionally cheat on their best friend/husband virtually their whole life, when the husband gets to know about the cheating, even when Bruce gets to know that he himself is Tom Waites from the future. I wish I could have felt connected to the characters, but I couldn't.
There were some things left unresolved too. We never get to know why/who blew up the major and the scientist in the original timeline after Bruce is sent back in time. I was waiting for this to somehow get tied up with the change in timeline.
Just a little factual incorrectness - Narendra Modi, the PM of India doesn't have a wife. Not a big deal, but something which irked me a little bit given I'm from India. This should have been an easy thing to check.
I get the conclusion though, that what happens has to happen, which in the story's case is a war that only got postponed, and the reasons for it changed.
In my opinion, this book and story would have felt much better if the characters had been portrayed to have some emotions and I could feel connected to them. It had most of the other ingredients for a sci-fi figured out.
December 4, 2022
This book held a lot of twists and turns that I was just simply not expecting, especially the ending. I went through this book in less than a day, I just could not put it down. If you are like me and you enjoy a little romance but more "meat" this is the one for you, while there is a gorgeous love story happening it doesn't come off as overbearing. This is a great read, and I highly recommend it.
August 15, 2021
This book was not what I was expecting. I really enjoyed the writing and short chapters. I also like the overall concept but it just fell flat for me. The beginning was hard to follow. I think I would have been more invested in the story had the love story been more personable and the current events more detailed.
August 15, 2021
This book had a very good plot but fell short. I felt like much of the details were skipped over. There was no character to root for. Perspectives of different characters were given which were just repeats of other characters and dragged the book on. The book lacked all feeling. It also oddly focused on basketball too much and was distracting from the story line.
December 4, 2021
I won this from a goodreads giveaway, and so surprised to find that it was autographed from the author! I love time travelling books, I love the adventure it entails - super appealing for me. There are a lot of surprises and unexpected occurrences, which kept me drawn to the book all the way to the end.
April 10, 2022
I think this is one of my favorite stories. If only we can go back in time. What a fascinating concept. When i finished this book, I was left with sadness, happiness and hope. The intense love of all the main characters is both sad and beautiful.
This is definitely a book I will reread.
#goodreadsgiveaway
#giveawaywinner
This is definitely a book I will reread.
#goodreadsgiveaway
#giveawaywinner
Read
January 24, 2023Bruce agrees to be sent back in time to change things so that the modern world will be safe from disaster. Because of a malfunction, he can never return to his own time. Trying to fit in with the times, he falls in love. Knowing the future, can he have the woman he loves or must he sacrifice his life to the greater good?
March 21, 2023
A lovely book! Witterick handles the time travel aspect deftly -- no easy feat -- and the love triangle is both wistful and poignant. It prompted me to leaf through my own high school yearbook and think about what changes I'd make for myself and my classmates if I were granted the power of voyaging backward in time. Thoughtful, romantic and entertaining all at once.
August 22, 2021
I’m so happy that I won this book on Goodreads. I’m a fan of J.L. Witterick and can’t wait to read her other book.
This story kept my interest. I enjoyed the story told through each character. I don’t want to give anything away, but suggest that you read this book.
This story kept my interest. I enjoyed the story told through each character. I don’t want to give anything away, but suggest that you read this book.
October 16, 2021
I loved this book! I think the characters are well developed and the plot was very interesting and different. It kept my attention and I was very caught up in the story. It makes me want to read more by this author. Great job!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews