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Always Been You
Wrong. Sinful. Taboo.
I know I shouldn’t want him.
I know I shouldn’t touch myself in the middle of the night as thoughts of him run through my mind.
Thoughts of his kiss, his touch, his love.
I’d spent years obsessing over the man I thought I couldn’t have.
But as it turns out, he wants me too.
And he wants me now.
I know I shouldn’t want him.
I know I shouldn’t touch myself in the middle of the night as thoughts of him run through my mind.
Thoughts of his kiss, his touch, his love.
I’d spent years obsessing over the man I thought I couldn’t have.
But as it turns out, he wants me too.
And he wants me now.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2021
1123 people are currently reading
7063 people want to read
About the author
Q.B. Tyler
24 books6,754 followersAmazon Top 15 Bestselling author and lover of forbidden romances, tacos, coffee, and wine, Q.B. Tyler gives readers sometimes angsty, sometimes emotional but always deliciously steamy romances featuring sassy heroines and the heroes that worship them. She's best known for writing forbidden (and sometimes taboo) romances, so if that's your thing, you've come to the right place. When she's not writing, you can usually find her on Instagram (definitely procrastinating), shopping or at brunch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,027 reviews
March 4, 2022
SO STEAMY AND FORBIDDEN AND I JUST ATE IT ALL UP. I really love QB's writing and how much passion, chemistry, and steam she can build between two characters. Gabrielle was adopted at a young age and immediately became infatuation by her older adoptive brother, James. Now, Gabrielle is 18 and things start heating up between James and Gabrielle before they go home for Christmas break. The two have chemistry that is off the charts and I really loved how Gabrielle had always had this love and infatuation with James pretty much her whole life. She's fantasized about him and can't believe when he starts reciprocating her feelings. James has only recently seen Gabrielle in a new light and has no idea how they can ever make it work or tell anyone in their lives. I did wish we got a little more depth to James' character and what made him tick outside of his recently developed feelings for Gabrielle. We did get some flashbacks during the second half of the story, but I would have really understood these characters if we had gotten a more linear story and watched James fall for Gabrielle instead of seeing him attracted to her and then got his POV later. I do know QB added to the novella for this book and that's why we got that additional character depth at the end, but I would have loved a little bit more of that all throughout the book. Either way, I really loved how taboo this adoptive sibling romance was and the angst between our characters!
March 6, 2022
3 Please Don’t Let Me Go Stars ⭐
These two were as thick as theives. The adoration and connection has been real from the moment Gabrielle was adopted into the Calloway family, and it was love at first sight for James. Their bond was sweet and heartwarming. And as their sibling love evolved into something real and intimate it seemed destined.
“I want you to do anything…everything to me. Fuck, James. I want you to break me.” She whines. “Turn me inside out and fuck me in a way that’ll make me yours forever.”
The second these two gave into their desires it was like a switch being turned on. James turned into an overbearing dictator and the risks they began taking were nonsensical. Would you gamble it all because you can't contain yourselves for a couple of hours? It seemed extreme.
Here's my take on things. If your new to this author and you enjoy super steamy, taboo and shocking stories, you will lap this up. However, for those of us who have enjoyed many books by QB, Always Been You is nothing original. It feels like I've read this before. Sad but true.
These two were as thick as theives. The adoration and connection has been real from the moment Gabrielle was adopted into the Calloway family, and it was love at first sight for James. Their bond was sweet and heartwarming. And as their sibling love evolved into something real and intimate it seemed destined.
“I want you to do anything…everything to me. Fuck, James. I want you to break me.” She whines. “Turn me inside out and fuck me in a way that’ll make me yours forever.”
The second these two gave into their desires it was like a switch being turned on. James turned into an overbearing dictator and the risks they began taking were nonsensical. Would you gamble it all because you can't contain yourselves for a couple of hours? It seemed extreme.
Here's my take on things. If your new to this author and you enjoy super steamy, taboo and shocking stories, you will lap this up. However, for those of us who have enjoyed many books by QB, Always Been You is nothing original. It feels like I've read this before. Sad but true.
March 4, 2022
QB Tyler has once again given us another hot AF taboo romance! I loved Love Unexpected when I read it last year and couldn’t wait to read more from her. When I heard she was editing a novella about adopted siblings into a full-length book, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. Gabrielle and James’s romance was just as steamy as I expected. If you love your taboo, forbidden romances, you need this book!
Gabrielle was adopted at age 2 into the Calloway family, and she fit right in instantly. This was mostly thanks to James, her adoptive parents’ biological son, who she formed a connection with even though he’s 11 years older. They are still best friends even 16 years later. They’ve always been able to tell each other anything… except that they’re in love (and in lust) with each other.
I ate this book up so fast. It’s quick and hot, since our main characters are already in love with each other from the start of the book. The conflict is mostly about how Gabrielle and James will actually be able to be in a relationship out in the open and public, when people know them as adopted siblings. How will their parents and sister handle it?
It gets angsty and hot hot hot. I know I can count on QB Tyler to deliver some good steam, and she gave me all that and then some. The taboo aspect of the romance only amped up the chemistry and I just had a great time reading it. It wasn’t perfect – things get a little rushed at parts and the characters could have been fleshed out a bit more, but I was totally here for a quick, kinky read, which is exactly what I got!
Gabrielle was adopted at age 2 into the Calloway family, and she fit right in instantly. This was mostly thanks to James, her adoptive parents’ biological son, who she formed a connection with even though he’s 11 years older. They are still best friends even 16 years later. They’ve always been able to tell each other anything… except that they’re in love (and in lust) with each other.
I ate this book up so fast. It’s quick and hot, since our main characters are already in love with each other from the start of the book. The conflict is mostly about how Gabrielle and James will actually be able to be in a relationship out in the open and public, when people know them as adopted siblings. How will their parents and sister handle it?
It gets angsty and hot hot hot. I know I can count on QB Tyler to deliver some good steam, and she gave me all that and then some. The taboo aspect of the romance only amped up the chemistry and I just had a great time reading it. It wasn’t perfect – things get a little rushed at parts and the characters could have been fleshed out a bit more, but I was totally here for a quick, kinky read, which is exactly what I got!
March 4, 2022
2.5 stars⭐️
this was just Unconditional with less (if any) angst and zero plot. it was anticlimactic and they legit get together within the first few chapters while the rest of the book is sex scene after sex scene.
and it wasn’t even taboo? i mean, it was with James and Gabby being raised as siblings when she was adopted by his family... but it really didn’t feel taboo. there were zero stakes, no moral quandaries — just glorified smut. granted, the smut was god-tier. but there was too much of it and i ended up skimming the smut by the half way point.
but their parents didn’t even care that much? their family were pissed for like five minutes and everything was sunshine and rainbows... it could have been taboo perfection but was just bland and mediocre.
this was just Unconditional with less (if any) angst and zero plot. it was anticlimactic and they legit get together within the first few chapters while the rest of the book is sex scene after sex scene.
and it wasn’t even taboo? i mean, it was with James and Gabby being raised as siblings when she was adopted by his family... but it really didn’t feel taboo. there were zero stakes, no moral quandaries — just glorified smut. granted, the smut was god-tier. but there was too much of it and i ended up skimming the smut by the half way point.
but their parents didn’t even care that much? their family were pissed for like five minutes and everything was sunshine and rainbows... it could have been taboo perfection but was just bland and mediocre.
March 3, 2022
Thank you to Wildfire Marketing Solutions and QB Tyler for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What is there to even say when you literally have 0 complaints?? Like honestly this book was everything I wanted and MORE. I was obsessed when the novella came out last year and when QB said she was expanding into a full length book I was so freaking excited. And it definitely didn’t disappoint!
The full length book has all of the goodness and set up from the novella, but trust me it does NOT feel like you are reading the same thing regurgitated back at you. There’s so much more background story added to James and Gabrielle’s relationship, we see more of Monica and their parents, and more on Gabrielle’s biological family. There’s one scene in here where Gabrielle confronts a family member from her past, only to have something else revealed and UGH it was so emotional to read but such a pivotal moment I feel for James and Gabrielle and the way that he has always been there for her. MY HEART.
If you’re like me and love taboo stories, then this fully delivers in that department. There’s an age gap and they’re adopted siblings. The way AB built their relationship though it felt so believable that their love for one another would morph over the years into something more and THERE WAS SO MUCH ANGST IN SUCH A SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME. I truly don’t know how she did it. Because I’m not a fan when couples get together fairly early in stories, I like the slow burn, but oh baby by chapter 5 I was ready to combust and I was cheering them on to act on their feelings. And I mean the hotness of the spice in this…I was losing my mind. You know when you go into a QB Tyler book to have some level of hotness but this blew me away🥵
James, Gabrielle, if you’re ever looking for a third…😮💨
This book overall was just amazing from start to finish I couldn’t put it down and truly is I think one of the best taboo romances I’ve ever read. You’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t pick it up!
Review for full length novel:
5 F*CKING STARS. Full review to come on release day 3/3
Review for the novella version from the Twisted Christmas anthology:
4.5/5⭐️ I think I’ve found my favorite novella ever!!!
12/27/21 - upping my rating to 5 stars because I still can’t stop thinking about this!!
What is there to even say when you literally have 0 complaints?? Like honestly this book was everything I wanted and MORE. I was obsessed when the novella came out last year and when QB said she was expanding into a full length book I was so freaking excited. And it definitely didn’t disappoint!
The full length book has all of the goodness and set up from the novella, but trust me it does NOT feel like you are reading the same thing regurgitated back at you. There’s so much more background story added to James and Gabrielle’s relationship, we see more of Monica and their parents, and more on Gabrielle’s biological family. There’s one scene in here where Gabrielle confronts a family member from her past, only to have something else revealed and UGH it was so emotional to read but such a pivotal moment I feel for James and Gabrielle and the way that he has always been there for her. MY HEART.
If you’re like me and love taboo stories, then this fully delivers in that department. There’s an age gap and they’re adopted siblings. The way AB built their relationship though it felt so believable that their love for one another would morph over the years into something more and THERE WAS SO MUCH ANGST IN SUCH A SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME. I truly don’t know how she did it. Because I’m not a fan when couples get together fairly early in stories, I like the slow burn, but oh baby by chapter 5 I was ready to combust and I was cheering them on to act on their feelings. And I mean the hotness of the spice in this…I was losing my mind. You know when you go into a QB Tyler book to have some level of hotness but this blew me away🥵
James, Gabrielle, if you’re ever looking for a third…😮💨
This book overall was just amazing from start to finish I couldn’t put it down and truly is I think one of the best taboo romances I’ve ever read. You’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t pick it up!
Review for full length novel:
5 F*CKING STARS. Full review to come on release day 3/3
Review for the novella version from the Twisted Christmas anthology:
4.5/5⭐️ I think I’ve found my favorite novella ever!!!
12/27/21 - upping my rating to 5 stars because I still can’t stop thinking about this!!
Read
March 3, 2022DNF
2 stars because where is the big drama
He lied to her about ow
Unsafe sex unsafe story
- Virgin inexperienced heroine
- She waited for him and even though he wants her has been a year he was still fucking ow
Before she lost her virginity she asked if he was seeing anyone and he made It clear he wasnt, she asks If not even casually and again he denied it. Later, a day after her first time a woman send a mensage asking to come over and she questions him about seeing someone cause he said he wasnt, he answer saying he is not and is not serious. She is fine with it and they fuck again. HE LIED. This is the definition of casual sex and he said he wasnt having it.
Disgusting STD risk
They didnt use a condom, he tells her he is clean and used before with other women. However, HE FUCKED OW ONE WEEK BEFORE BEING WITH HER, he wasnt tested and even If he was It takes about three to four months after having sex to be confirmed clean. He used a condom but what about oral? He put her at risk.
When she found out the guy who lied to her face about seeing anyone was having casual sex with ow a week before she asked about ow and him seeing anyone and they fucked for the first time (without a condom) she was jealous but went straight to fucking him.
Honey, you could have a STD, GO GET TESTED ANE RUN FAR AWAY FROM THAT KIND OF ASSHOLE
bye friends, with condoms, get tested regularly and don't wait for any man
2 stars because where is the big drama
He lied to her about ow
Unsafe sex unsafe story
- Virgin inexperienced heroine
- She waited for him and even though he wants her has been a year he was still fucking ow
Before she lost her virginity she asked if he was seeing anyone and he made It clear he wasnt, she asks If not even casually and again he denied it. Later, a day after her first time a woman send a mensage asking to come over and she questions him about seeing someone cause he said he wasnt, he answer saying he is not and is not serious. She is fine with it and they fuck again. HE LIED. This is the definition of casual sex and he said he wasnt having it.
Disgusting STD risk
They didnt use a condom, he tells her he is clean and used before with other women. However, HE FUCKED OW ONE WEEK BEFORE BEING WITH HER, he wasnt tested and even If he was It takes about three to four months after having sex to be confirmed clean. He used a condom but what about oral? He put her at risk.
When she found out the guy who lied to her face about seeing anyone was having casual sex with ow a week before she asked about ow and him seeing anyone and they fucked for the first time (without a condom) she was jealous but went straight to fucking him.
Honey, you could have a STD, GO GET TESTED ANE RUN FAR AWAY FROM THAT KIND OF ASSHOLE
bye friends, with condoms, get tested regularly and don't wait for any man
May 9, 2022
3 stars
This is my first QB Tyler read and I’ll definitely be reading more. I like her writing a lot and James and Gabby’s story sucked me in. I only wish there was more… lead up, longing, and I know I’m in the minority here but a little less steam and a little more story.
This is my first QB Tyler read and I’ll definitely be reading more. I like her writing a lot and James and Gabby’s story sucked me in. I only wish there was more… lead up, longing, and I know I’m in the minority here but a little less steam and a little more story.
June 11, 2023
They’re so stinking cute as siblings, already the best of friends. When he said she was his favorite person, I swooned so hard. I can’t wait to see how this forbidden romance evolves.
QB is one of my favorite age gap writers. I wish she wrote nothing but and I had this huge back catalog to catch up with.
While I thoroughly enjoyed all the steam, it did get a bit repetitive. If you’re gonna have a lot of sex, get more creative. Especially considering how much they talked about the back door but never actually did it was a let down.
I don’t know if I’m in the minority of this opinion, but I enjoy when couples get caught or when they have to spill the beans. I was living for the moment Monica found out about them. Then when they finally told their parents was enjoyable as well.
My issue is that we never really got the full story of the parents reaction. In fact the ending all together felt like a bucket of ice water to the face. One minute they were admitting their sins and the next it’s time for the epilogue which was four years later.
I can’t believe I’m saying this … but this one needed less sex and more falling action and resolution. Honestly, the climax (not the orgasms, those were good) needed work too.
Having said that, I still enjoyed this thoroughly. Gab and J are absolutely one of my favorite couples.
March 2, 2022
QB makes me 🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊
This woman writes the best sex scenes ever.
A very quick step-brother romance with the sweetest HEA, and a bi-racial couple. I loved every second! James got a little jealous there for a minute at the end and I was about to slap him but I’m not gonna lie, I do love a jealous but devoted man.
Thank you for the ARC queen, All Hail QB Tyler, can’t wait to read more of her stuff 😭💖
March 2, 2022
Is it hot in here because.....DAYUM!!! The things that went on in this book was deliciously sinful and let me tell you, NOTHING was held back. I thought that this was going to be a quick taboo read where I would forget about these characters by the time that I was finished with the final chapter, but I was wrong. So wrong.
Gabrielle has been determined to be fully focused on closing out her freshman year of College with no distraction. With good friends, a loving tight knit family, what more could a young woman ask for? There's just one thing that's missing and it comes in the form of a very forbidden love.But what happens when the one person you thought was completely off limits has wanted you all along?
Not only did this book push the taboo limit but this author did something that is rarely done sometimes when it comes to stories like these. She made you a part of their journey and she showed you the good, the bad, and the downside of having a taboo romance like theirs.
I really loved seeing these characters in all of their elements and I know there's a special place for me, but I was genuinely rooting for their happiness all the way. We not only saw and felt the struggle of their love, but we also witnessed how powerful that same love was.
My only complaint was that I wished we would've gotten more of them doing different things. Aside from that, I truly enjoyed this one and if you're a fan of this genre, you're going to love this!!
March 16, 2022
I'll be honest... taboo reads haven't really been on my radar lately. I can't even remember when the last time my eyes even came across one. However, when I read this review from Sonya, I couldn't pass it up. She made it sound so good and I'm happy to say that I agree. At least for the most part.
So this isn't your typical 'he's my stepbrother and we're now involved. There's some fallout and a happy ending' kind of read. This is about adopted siblings. Gabi was adopted when she was two. She was a part of the family in every single way.
But what's a girl to do when she falls in love with her older brother?
Knowing they can't be together doesn't keep her heart from aching for him. It doesn't stop her body's longing for him.
So what happens when she finds out he feels the same way?
I liked a lot of what this story offered. The writing was definitely on point. The chemistry between the characters was beyond sizzling. The drama was actually kept to a minimum, if you can believe it. I even liked the dynamic explored by Gabi and James in their new relationship. I found it more realistic that they were being realistic about how strange their circumstances were. They knew it was messed up, they knew that many people would be grossed out, but their love wouldn't allow any of that to matter.
I do wish this story encompassed more than just the sexual chemistry between the characters. I know, I can't believe I even typed that, but it's true. There were some flashbacks that missed the mark on showing me the depth of their relationship. It was more tell than show and I would have loved to see the before better. Overall, a very solid read and I can easily recommend it to anyone looking for a bit more than a splash of taboo in their romance.
Find the full review and more on the blog
So this isn't your typical 'he's my stepbrother and we're now involved. There's some fallout and a happy ending' kind of read. This is about adopted siblings. Gabi was adopted when she was two. She was a part of the family in every single way.
But what's a girl to do when she falls in love with her older brother?
Knowing they can't be together doesn't keep her heart from aching for him. It doesn't stop her body's longing for him.
So what happens when she finds out he feels the same way?
I liked a lot of what this story offered. The writing was definitely on point. The chemistry between the characters was beyond sizzling. The drama was actually kept to a minimum, if you can believe it. I even liked the dynamic explored by Gabi and James in their new relationship. I found it more realistic that they were being realistic about how strange their circumstances were. They knew it was messed up, they knew that many people would be grossed out, but their love wouldn't allow any of that to matter.
I do wish this story encompassed more than just the sexual chemistry between the characters. I know, I can't believe I even typed that, but it's true. There were some flashbacks that missed the mark on showing me the depth of their relationship. It was more tell than show and I would have loved to see the before better. Overall, a very solid read and I can easily recommend it to anyone looking for a bit more than a splash of taboo in their romance.
Find the full review and more on the blog
March 4, 2022
4.5 stars
This was extremely taboo, but also extremely hot. The two things QB is best at. I did not read James and Gab’s novella, so I went into this completely blinde and loved every second. James and gabby are adoptive siblings but James is 11 years older- she was 2/3 when she was adopted and they have always been extremely close. They have been each other’s universes center her whole life basically and things change when she’s 18 and in school in New York, the same city as where James is working. This was fast paced and extremely extremely hot and I loved it and how devoted they were to one another. No miscommunication trope, and their difficulties telling their loved ones resolves very quickly but honestly I’m here for their happiness and spice so no complains for little old me
This was extremely taboo, but also extremely hot. The two things QB is best at. I did not read James and Gab’s novella, so I went into this completely blinde and loved every second. James and gabby are adoptive siblings but James is 11 years older- she was 2/3 when she was adopted and they have always been extremely close. They have been each other’s universes center her whole life basically and things change when she’s 18 and in school in New York, the same city as where James is working. This was fast paced and extremely extremely hot and I loved it and how devoted they were to one another. No miscommunication trope, and their difficulties telling their loved ones resolves very quickly but honestly I’m here for their happiness and spice so no complains for little old me
Read
March 9, 2024dnf @30%
got this in the dark & quirky booktube box and decided to give it a go
grammar mistakes by chapter 3? oookay excusable
taboo step-sibling romance? def not my wheelhouse but we shall persist
insta-lust??? NOOO not my least fav romance trope🥲
her brother being 10+ years older, knowing her since she was 2, and calling her “curvy and sexy” in comparison to the other ‘whores’ at HER 18th BIRTHDAY party?!? absolutely not
there are ways to use taboo tropes to add conflict to a story but this was just a weird fetish book
got this in the dark & quirky booktube box and decided to give it a go
grammar mistakes by chapter 3? oookay excusable
taboo step-sibling romance? def not my wheelhouse but we shall persist
insta-lust??? NOOO not my least fav romance trope🥲
her brother being 10+ years older, knowing her since she was 2, and calling her “curvy and sexy” in comparison to the other ‘whores’ at HER 18th BIRTHDAY party?!? absolutely not
there are ways to use taboo tropes to add conflict to a story but this was just a weird fetish book
July 30, 2023
This follows James & Gabrielle who have been adopted siblings since she was 2 and he was 13. They've always been attached at hip. Through him going away to college starting a career. Until, 6 months after she turns 18
and finishes her first semester at university things start to change between them. I don't know how to convince you to read this tbh bc it gave what it needed to give.
It's exactlv what it claims to be A taboo book that's sweet, sexy & swoony. These two literally couldn't keep their hands off each other and they were equally obsessed with one another. I ate up all of this smut. The connection, the dirty talk, sweet moments throughout were perfect. Gab & James lowkey have always been "attached at the hip" since she came to live with them & he basically taught her everything she knows. He's been looking out for her all her life so watching him adjust to treating her as someone different in his life was interesting. He was a little unhinged with the possessiveness but he wouldn't be a QB Tyler
hero is he wasn't.
As I mentioned previously this was apart of an anthology first as a novella so getting some additional scenes & background story from when they were younger was great. It gives us more insight on the instant chemistry that was shown in the novella + more context.
Building up to the conflict had me on pins and needles and when we got to it, it was better than expected. It came and then it went which I'm glad for. At least the first one, now the ending? Eh felt a bit rushed a teeny bit unrealistic but idk how I wanted to change it so maybe it's a me thing & that the only reason it's not getting a 5 is bc I can't quite explain it, I wanted more of their HEA. However I loved it all the same. Happy release day my love, I'm so proud of you & im grateful I get to read your work. Thanks for sharing these two with us.
and finishes her first semester at university things start to change between them. I don't know how to convince you to read this tbh bc it gave what it needed to give.
It's exactlv what it claims to be A taboo book that's sweet, sexy & swoony. These two literally couldn't keep their hands off each other and they were equally obsessed with one another. I ate up all of this smut. The connection, the dirty talk, sweet moments throughout were perfect. Gab & James lowkey have always been "attached at the hip" since she came to live with them & he basically taught her everything she knows. He's been looking out for her all her life so watching him adjust to treating her as someone different in his life was interesting. He was a little unhinged with the possessiveness but he wouldn't be a QB Tyler
hero is he wasn't.
As I mentioned previously this was apart of an anthology first as a novella so getting some additional scenes & background story from when they were younger was great. It gives us more insight on the instant chemistry that was shown in the novella + more context.
Building up to the conflict had me on pins and needles and when we got to it, it was better than expected. It came and then it went which I'm glad for. At least the first one, now the ending? Eh felt a bit rushed a teeny bit unrealistic but idk how I wanted to change it so maybe it's a me thing & that the only reason it's not getting a 5 is bc I can't quite explain it, I wanted more of their HEA. However I loved it all the same. Happy release day my love, I'm so proud of you & im grateful I get to read your work. Thanks for sharing these two with us.
March 3, 2022
5 delicious ✨
What happens when protectiveness slowly morphs into something else. Something closer to possession. Y’all THIS BOOK!! First of all if you don’t like taboo reads then don’t even pick up this book. This is for people with open minds and like forbidden things..such as an older brother falling in love with his adopted Black sister. He is 12 years her senior and has been her protector since she was two. Taught her to drive, gave her her first drink. So many firsts..
“The things I could do to you, Gab.” He drops his head back. “I hate that I’ve thought about it.” “Thought about…what?”
Who knew that by just saying these words what would happen next. Gabrielle has always been in love with James really. Infatuated with him, but it was when Gab was almost 18 when James saw her for the first time…as a woman. This story I devoured in one sitting because it truly is my catnip. QB writes taboo like no other. The spice. The dirty talk..the smoking HOT sexy scenes between them. I had a physical reaction with this book and that rarely happens. It was perfect in every way and written brilliantly! James is so damn sexy, hot and in charge in every way. Certain scenes from this book I’ll never forget.
Do yourself a favor and one click this book on 3/3. Only for taboo lovers though.
What happens when protectiveness slowly morphs into something else. Something closer to possession. Y’all THIS BOOK!! First of all if you don’t like taboo reads then don’t even pick up this book. This is for people with open minds and like forbidden things..such as an older brother falling in love with his adopted Black sister. He is 12 years her senior and has been her protector since she was two. Taught her to drive, gave her her first drink. So many firsts..
“The things I could do to you, Gab.” He drops his head back. “I hate that I’ve thought about it.” “Thought about…what?”
Who knew that by just saying these words what would happen next. Gabrielle has always been in love with James really. Infatuated with him, but it was when Gab was almost 18 when James saw her for the first time…as a woman. This story I devoured in one sitting because it truly is my catnip. QB writes taboo like no other. The spice. The dirty talk..the smoking HOT sexy scenes between them. I had a physical reaction with this book and that rarely happens. It was perfect in every way and written brilliantly! James is so damn sexy, hot and in charge in every way. Certain scenes from this book I’ll never forget.
Do yourself a favor and one click this book on 3/3. Only for taboo lovers though.
March 26, 2024
*audiobook
Welp, there it is.
My first 5 stars of 2024, but also my first 5 star in a looong time.
Yall know how rare 4 stars and 5 stars are for me... so you know this MUST be a good one.
This QB Tyler audiobook binge I am on has been very worth it.
Also, let's celebrate something else! Our fmc Gabi squirted!!!
Yall know I am always happy for my squirters!
THIS IS HOW YOU DO FORBIDDEN.
THIS IS HOW YOU DO EXCEPTIONAL SMUT.
Authors, take notes.
(Yes, the daddy stuff were weird in this one too, but when you write such great sexual tension and smut, I'm willing to ignore weird daddy kink stuff.)
Welp, there it is.
My first 5 stars of 2024, but also my first 5 star in a looong time.
Yall know how rare 4 stars and 5 stars are for me... so you know this MUST be a good one.
This QB Tyler audiobook binge I am on has been very worth it.
Also, let's celebrate something else! Our fmc Gabi squirted!!!
Yall know I am always happy for my squirters!
THIS IS HOW YOU DO FORBIDDEN.
THIS IS HOW YOU DO EXCEPTIONAL SMUT.
Authors, take notes.
(Yes, the daddy stuff were weird in this one too, but when you write such great sexual tension and smut, I'm willing to ignore weird daddy kink stuff.)
March 3, 2022
we already know that no one does a forbidden / taboo romance like qb tyler, and this was no exception. I think it’s safe to say that this book is not going to be for everyone, so if a taboo romance isn’t your thing, totally fair.
I loved Gabrielle and James’s story, they had such a unique relationship. From the beginning they never really had a traditional sibling relationship, there was always something different. When Gabby is in college, they both acknowledge and accept that there is something there they can’t ignore. Now, the spice in this book had no right being so dang hot. James was a possessive dirty talker and Gabby was so confident and knew how to get her way, absolutely love to see it.
This was previously published as a novella back in december, and this is now the full length version. This totally gave me everything I didn’t know I was missing in the novella. Some flashbacks that show important moments, more James POVs, and just more glimpses into their relationship. And also more s3x.
I loved Gabrielle and James’s story, they had such a unique relationship. From the beginning they never really had a traditional sibling relationship, there was always something different. When Gabby is in college, they both acknowledge and accept that there is something there they can’t ignore. Now, the spice in this book had no right being so dang hot. James was a possessive dirty talker and Gabby was so confident and knew how to get her way, absolutely love to see it.
This was previously published as a novella back in december, and this is now the full length version. This totally gave me everything I didn’t know I was missing in the novella. Some flashbacks that show important moments, more James POVs, and just more glimpses into their relationship. And also more s3x.
September 22, 2022
Well, if you ignore the taboo factor that made me feel slightly uncomfortable, yet I've read worse, so I was good about it, this was a story that was just okay for me. It lacked the angst I was looking for, the plot was nonexistent and it was just sex scene upon sex scene. A light taboo erotica romance to pass your time, but that's all. Didn't work for me, but it may work for others.
August 5, 2022
Well this was just as hot as I was expecting. It was taboo but it was also not filled with angst. QB Tyler has a way of telling naughty stories like this where we don't have to dwell on the realities of the situation. I don't say that in censure. When I'm reading a smutty book of this kind, I'm not looking to be faced with the reality.
The only part that was a bit lacking for me was chatting with the parents. We really didn't see any of their parents at all. Maybe 2 scenes total... and then we were in the HEA. But eh, James and Gab are sizzling as Hellfire. So who really cares?
4 stars
4.5 on the spice scale (just so much smutty goodness)
The only part that was a bit lacking for me was chatting with the parents. We really didn't see any of their parents at all. Maybe 2 scenes total... and then we were in the HEA. But eh, James and Gab are sizzling as Hellfire. So who really cares?
4 stars
4.5 on the spice scale (just so much smutty goodness)
March 8, 2022
Update: QB came back and gave us a full length Always Been You and I loved it even more. QB is the queen of taboo and this story was perfect. James, James, James…I absolutely loved him…from his jealousy, over protectiveness, possessiveness. So damn hot.
QB does taboo so well!! This is a biracial couple + adoptive sibling + age gap romance (but make it Christmas!) anytime i read QBs work I always get some anxiety for the enviable movement the couple gets caught in the act or their secret is revealed. She always has you on the edge of your seats.
I loved this novella - steamy and romantic - with a HEA. The heroine is adopted into a family when she was 2. Her older brother James is 11 years older than her and she began to feel attracted to him when she was around 16 I believe. They start their relationship when she is a freshman in college (so she is 18!). My favorite moment was the obvi the club scene and that employee only break room 🥵
QB does taboo so well!! This is a biracial couple + adoptive sibling + age gap romance (but make it Christmas!) anytime i read QBs work I always get some anxiety for the enviable movement the couple gets caught in the act or their secret is revealed. She always has you on the edge of your seats.
I loved this novella - steamy and romantic - with a HEA. The heroine is adopted into a family when she was 2. Her older brother James is 11 years older than her and she began to feel attracted to him when she was around 16 I believe. They start their relationship when she is a freshman in college (so she is 18!). My favorite moment was the obvi the club scene and that employee only break room 🥵
March 4, 2022
If you have a problem with adopted siblings having a romantic/sexual relationship…DON’T READ THIS!
If you have an issue with the guy having sexual thoughts about his sister who at the time wasn’t 18 years old…DON’T READ THIS!
If you can’t handle books with a lot of smut…DON’T READ THIS!
If you don’t mind none of those warnings, this book is freaking everything!!! @qbtyler.author knows how to write taboo that will keep you hooked and I eat that shit up! Y’all know I’m a sucker for all things dark and taboo and I’m so I love with Gabby and James!! Their chemistry, devotion to each other, and their sexual tension is unmatched. And can we talk about James!!! Why isn’t this man real!!! His ability to put Gabby above everyone and everything else makes me love him so much more. And did I mention he’s the extra overprotective and jealous type!! Ughh I’m in love!! I can’t wait for the full length novel on March 3!
If you have an issue with the guy having sexual thoughts about his sister who at the time wasn’t 18 years old…DON’T READ THIS!
If you can’t handle books with a lot of smut…DON’T READ THIS!
If you don’t mind none of those warnings, this book is freaking everything!!! @qbtyler.author knows how to write taboo that will keep you hooked and I eat that shit up! Y’all know I’m a sucker for all things dark and taboo and I’m so I love with Gabby and James!! Their chemistry, devotion to each other, and their sexual tension is unmatched. And can we talk about James!!! Why isn’t this man real!!! His ability to put Gabby above everyone and everything else makes me love him so much more. And did I mention he’s the extra overprotective and jealous type!! Ughh I’m in love!! I can’t wait for the full length novel on March 3!
Read
October 11, 2022QB is a PHENOMENAL writer. She writes some of the steamiest scenes ever and just has such a beautiful way with words. I am honestly stunned every time.
However…i can’t rate this cause my opinion is invalid. IT HAD THE DADDY K¡NK IN AN ADOPTIVE SIBLING TABOO ROMANCE. And i just couldn’t.
However…i can’t rate this cause my opinion is invalid. IT HAD THE DADDY K¡NK IN AN ADOPTIVE SIBLING TABOO ROMANCE. And i just couldn’t.
March 29, 2022
Okaaay. This was spicy af😳 but it's not enough to make me ignore the lack of... everything else.
June 7, 2022
DNF
God this book was awful.
Reasons why it was very bad and you shouldn't read it-
1. Josh uses the word 'baby' too often.
2. There was very little angst and they both gave in too easily considering they are siblings.
3. The book was really bland, I was just skimming over the sex scenes to finish the book, and I ended up not finishing the book.
4. Who starts crushing on their older brother at 13?? I was too busy picking petty fights with my friends to even think about guys let alone my brother.
God this book was awful.
Reasons why it was very bad and you shouldn't read it-
1. Josh uses the word 'baby' too often.
2. There was very little angst and they both gave in too easily considering they are siblings.
3. The book was really bland, I was just skimming over the sex scenes to finish the book, and I ended up not finishing the book.
4. Who starts crushing on their older brother at 13?? I was too busy picking petty fights with my friends to even think about guys let alone my brother.
March 5, 2022
If QB Tyler understands one thing, it’s how to bring taboo to life. And Always Been You is no exception.
This was my first foray into adopted siblings territory, but James and Gabrielle had me captivated at every page. There’s just something about the guardian/protector to lover pipeline that always gets me. Gabrielle may be 11 years James’ junior, but she’s confident, self-assured, and has no qualms going after what she wants, even when it’s not necessarily societally acceptable.
The spicy spice was off the charts hot y’all. James x Gab’s chemistry all but leapt off the page, and I couldn’t get enough. If you love taboo and need a quick & hot read, I highly recommend this!
This was my first foray into adopted siblings territory, but James and Gabrielle had me captivated at every page. There’s just something about the guardian/protector to lover pipeline that always gets me. Gabrielle may be 11 years James’ junior, but she’s confident, self-assured, and has no qualms going after what she wants, even when it’s not necessarily societally acceptable.
The spicy spice was off the charts hot y’all. James x Gab’s chemistry all but leapt off the page, and I couldn’t get enough. If you love taboo and need a quick & hot read, I highly recommend this!
Read
March 4, 2022This book had EVERYTHING:
✔Adopted siblings with age gap
✔Interracial
✔Taboo
✔All the feels
✔Daddy kink🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵
Yo. This book was straight fire in more ways than one. I didn't read the short novella QB released about this couple, but right away I was completely enamored with these two. Right away you know these two have such a deep love for one another that goes way past familial ties. Also I loved how all in they both were right away, which is a fresh breath of air on its own. The angst from this story didn't come from the will-they-wont-they: as soon as they admitted they wanted each other, the I love yous came instantly and it was James and Gabby versus their family versus the world. It didn't feel rushed to me at all, but just so natural. They were the other half of each others soul, and despite the taboo, it didn't FEEL taboo. They just simply loved one another.
This is definitely one of the hottest books I've ever read. Especially a certain part in their parents basement. You're welcome.😉
I just love this couple! Yes they were hot, but it wasn't all about the sex either. Their love just completed the other so well that I physically could not stop reading. This is easily one of my favorite books of the year!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
✔Adopted siblings with age gap
✔Interracial
✔Taboo
✔All the feels
✔Daddy kink🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵
Yo. This book was straight fire in more ways than one. I didn't read the short novella QB released about this couple, but right away I was completely enamored with these two. Right away you know these two have such a deep love for one another that goes way past familial ties. Also I loved how all in they both were right away, which is a fresh breath of air on its own. The angst from this story didn't come from the will-they-wont-they: as soon as they admitted they wanted each other, the I love yous came instantly and it was James and Gabby versus their family versus the world. It didn't feel rushed to me at all, but just so natural. They were the other half of each others soul, and despite the taboo, it didn't FEEL taboo. They just simply loved one another.
This is definitely one of the hottest books I've ever read. Especially a certain part in their parents basement. You're welcome.😉
I just love this couple! Yes they were hot, but it wasn't all about the sex either. Their love just completed the other so well that I physically could not stop reading. This is easily one of my favorite books of the year!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
March 7, 2022
I had really high expectations for this book... But I really didn't enjoy this... This story could've been so much more! But the plot was taking up 10% of the book... Sex was taking up the rest... I really wanted to see James and Gab's relationship grow, but it just grew in a way in which was just unenjoyable to constantly read...But remember everyone's opinions different!
April 29, 2022
i really enjoyed the short story of this, and in total honesty there was no need for a full novel
September 21, 2022
It wasn’t memorable. Too much sex that added nothing to the plot advancement.
I got bored rather quickly after both characters got together.
I got bored rather quickly after both characters got together.
December 31, 2024
I swear this gets better every time I listen to it! There’s just something about the way Q.B. Tyler writes a forbidden romance that I can’t get enough of. This one leans extra forbidden—not that you’d know it by how little they actually try to fight it! The low angst for a story like this is such a refreshing change, and it makes the whole thing even more enjoyable.
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