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Blackbridge Security #4
Truth Be Told
Lies ruin lives.
Ignacio Torres, the translator for Blackbridge Security, has told his fair share and then some.
He lied more than once to Tinley Holland when they were teens.
Told her he didn’t love her.
Told her he could live without her.
Told her what they shared didn’t mean a thing.
He’s lived with those lies, lived with the loss of her for over a decade.
What he didn’t expect was going home to help with a family matter only to discover Tinley has told the biggest lie of all.
Ignacio Torres, the translator for Blackbridge Security, has told his fair share and then some.
He lied more than once to Tinley Holland when they were teens.
Told her he didn’t love her.
Told her he could live without her.
Told her what they shared didn’t mean a thing.
He’s lived with those lies, lived with the loss of her for over a decade.
What he didn’t expect was going home to help with a family matter only to discover Tinley has told the biggest lie of all.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2021
About the author
Marie James
82 books2,742 followersMarie James is a mother of two boys and wife of 17 years. She's spent most of her life lifetime living in central Texas, with only short stays in South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. Her passions include reading everything under the sun and sewing, although she doesn't get to sew much these days!.
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
February 25, 2021
Emotional second chance romance, that I devoured in one day. So good I couldn’t put it down!
I have been enjoying this series immensely and the character I have been enjoying the absolute most will unfortunately never get his own book, but I swear Puff Daddy steals every scene he is in. Wren's African grey parrot "Puff Daddy" is hysterical, I not only laugh out loud with his antics I was gasping for breath in this book because I was laughing so hard!
Truth Be Told is Ignacio Torres' story, this is a second chance with your first love romance.
You I'm sure have been told that lies will only come back to haunt you, or lies never pay, or some other analogy on why lying is bad. Well, Ignacio told the biggest lie to his high school sweetheart when he broke her heart. Heck he didn't break it, he decimated it.
Ignacio has returned to his hometown due to his grandfather having a stroke and being on his deathbed. Now that he's back that lie not only has come back to haunt him he begins to wonder if he didn't tell the lie so many lives could have turned out differently.
Tinley Holland was in love with Ignacio before he crushed her and now that he has returned she needs to protect not only her heart but that of those she loves as well. Tinley is a strong woman doing everything she can while caring for her very sick mother and raising her son Alex by herself.
Alex is a sweet kid that has a lot of crap going on and I really liked the way the author didn't sugar coat anything. They lived in a tough area and she showed what Alex went though to survive the neighborhood.
This has been my favorite read of the series so far. Again, it's because of the way the author showed the push and pull of emotions and hurt feelings, the way she showed the rawness of everything that went on, and because she didn't have the H&h hopping into bed as soon as they saw one another. I sooooo appreciated that, things needed to be worked through and not glossed over so kuddos to Marie James for showing us that Romances aren't just sunshine and rainbows sometimes they are tornadoes and hurricanes that you have to rebuild from.
If you enjoy second chance romance's I highly recommend this one to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more about the book here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewTbT
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books** I also purchased a copy
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
I have been enjoying this series immensely and the character I have been enjoying the absolute most will unfortunately never get his own book, but I swear Puff Daddy steals every scene he is in. Wren's African grey parrot "Puff Daddy" is hysterical, I not only laugh out loud with his antics I was gasping for breath in this book because I was laughing so hard!
Truth Be Told is Ignacio Torres' story, this is a second chance with your first love romance.
You I'm sure have been told that lies will only come back to haunt you, or lies never pay, or some other analogy on why lying is bad. Well, Ignacio told the biggest lie to his high school sweetheart when he broke her heart. Heck he didn't break it, he decimated it.
Ignacio has returned to his hometown due to his grandfather having a stroke and being on his deathbed. Now that he's back that lie not only has come back to haunt him he begins to wonder if he didn't tell the lie so many lives could have turned out differently.
Tinley Holland was in love with Ignacio before he crushed her and now that he has returned she needs to protect not only her heart but that of those she loves as well. Tinley is a strong woman doing everything she can while caring for her very sick mother and raising her son Alex by herself.
Alex is a sweet kid that has a lot of crap going on and I really liked the way the author didn't sugar coat anything. They lived in a tough area and she showed what Alex went though to survive the neighborhood.
This has been my favorite read of the series so far. Again, it's because of the way the author showed the push and pull of emotions and hurt feelings, the way she showed the rawness of everything that went on, and because she didn't have the H&h hopping into bed as soon as they saw one another. I sooooo appreciated that, things needed to be worked through and not glossed over so kuddos to Marie James for showing us that Romances aren't just sunshine and rainbows sometimes they are tornadoes and hurricanes that you have to rebuild from.
If you enjoy second chance romance's I highly recommend this one to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more about the book here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewTbT
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books** I also purchased a copyYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
June 18, 2022
Another great story in the Blackbridge Security series! LOVE these guys (and the girls) in each of these love stories that start out as anything but!
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February 7, 2021
A little bit of a slow burn and Lord I wanted to smack both of these characters at different times during the story. Ig was saying and doing all the wrong things with all the best intentions, and Tin wasn't even trying to figure out WHY he did everything he did. I enjoyed the end although Tinley had a really fast change of heart. 4 stars
February 23, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Ignacio
Heroine : Tinley
Pace of the story : Slow
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Triggers Involved : None
Plot Summary :
Ignacio and Tinley have a tale full of so much heartbreak. Riley was everything He wanted until he had to leave her. But she won't let him. So he told her lies. Lies that he still dreams about. Lies that were never true. And now he has to return back to the place where the love of his life resides and has to come face to face with the very woman whose heart he broke.
Tinley had everything she could have ever wanted. That is until all of it was gone. Now the man she hated and loved was back. And he was in for a surprise. Because Tinley had a secret and that secret could as well destroy everything she wanted.
Overall Opinion :
I am a huge fan of military types Romance and this book gave me all that vibes. The forbidden part and the heartbreak part too. Tinley and Ignacio have an amazing tale full of second chances and love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one but it was a one time read for me. The story was good and so where the plot twists. I found myself getting immersed in the characters. A must read for all the second chance contemporary romance lovers out there!
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August 14, 2023
Narration was good. Storyline wasn't interesting to me.
Audible purchase
Audible purchase
February 24, 2021
Okay I am definitely going back and reading the previous books. I enjoyed this one though.
These two characters frustrated me so much. I have never met two people I wanted to lock in a room and just scream at them to talk or fight or whatever it out... lol
Ignacio returned to his hometown due to his grandfather having a stroke and dying. And after he left the last time and had totally broke Tinley’s heart in pieces, he might be having second thoughts as to the lies he told.
Tinley was so in love with Ignacio and then he totally crushed her and now his back and she has her own heart to protect now but also that of her son Alex.
Like I said I was frustrated reading this book. It seemed like the talked past each other, never really listening to the other. Lots of emotions and hurt feelings but also its not just about them now. And things aren’t always as easy as just falling in love 😊 ♥
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
These two characters frustrated me so much. I have never met two people I wanted to lock in a room and just scream at them to talk or fight or whatever it out... lol
Ignacio returned to his hometown due to his grandfather having a stroke and dying. And after he left the last time and had totally broke Tinley’s heart in pieces, he might be having second thoughts as to the lies he told.
Tinley was so in love with Ignacio and then he totally crushed her and now his back and she has her own heart to protect now but also that of her son Alex.
Like I said I was frustrated reading this book. It seemed like the talked past each other, never really listening to the other. Lots of emotions and hurt feelings but also its not just about them now. And things aren’t always as easy as just falling in love 😊 ♥
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
February 23, 2021
Sadly, DNF’d at 24%. This whole story just irritated me. The characters, the fact that neither seems to have grown since being high schoolers, just nope.
February 25, 2021
TRUTH BE TOLD is the fourth instalment in Marie James’ contemporary, adult BLACKBRIDGE SECURITY romantic suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for Blackbridge Security. This is thirty-one year olds and former high school sweethearts Ignacio Torres, and Trinley Holland’s story line. TRUTH BE TOLD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Tinley and Ignacio) TRUTH BE TOLD follows in the wake of Ignacio Torres’ reluctant return to his hometown, only to discover that the woman he once loved, gave birth to the son he knew nothing about. Thirteen years earlier, Tinley’s father accepted a job in Dallas, Texas, pulling Tinley away from the young man that she loved but refusing to accept what was about to happen, Ignacio pushed Tinley out of his life. Hoping to reconnect with Tinley Holland, and uncover the truth about what happened and why, Ignacio struggles knowing he was partly to blame for Tinley’s failure to reconnect after the horrible way he left years before. Having returned home to bury his grandfather, Ignacio would learn that Tinley was struggling to make ends meet, and in this Ignacio was hoping to become the father, and husband he had once dreamed to become. What ensues is the rebuilding but tempestuous relationship between Tinley and Ignacio, as Igancio tries to prove he is worthy of Tinley’s love.
The relationship between Tinley and Ignacio is a second chanced romance; high school sweethearts torn apart by heart break and pain, and one woman’s inability to move on from the past. Tinley Holland never did tell Ignacio that she as carrying his child, and in this our hero, battles between head and heart knowing he has lost twelve years of his son’s childhood in the wake of stubbornness and hurt feelings. Tinley Holland refuses to accept Ignacio Torres back into her life having raised her son as a single parent but all is not well in their area of Houston, and her son is about to pay the price. Tinley’s stubbornness and pride threatens the safety of the child she loves. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.
We are introduced to Tinley’s ailing grandmother Brooke Holland, as well as her estranged brother Cooper; and Ignacio’s son Alex; fellow Blackbridge security agents Wren, Quinten, Brooks Morgan; their boss Deacon Black, and Wren’s foul-mouthed bird Puff Daddy.
TRUTH BE TOLD is a story of secrets and lies; heart break and pain; death, grief, forgiveness and love. The premise is emotional and inviting; the romanced struggles in the face of betrayal and secrets; the characters are stubborn, spirited and impassioned.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual first person perspectives (Tinley and Ignacio) TRUTH BE TOLD follows in the wake of Ignacio Torres’ reluctant return to his hometown, only to discover that the woman he once loved, gave birth to the son he knew nothing about. Thirteen years earlier, Tinley’s father accepted a job in Dallas, Texas, pulling Tinley away from the young man that she loved but refusing to accept what was about to happen, Ignacio pushed Tinley out of his life. Hoping to reconnect with Tinley Holland, and uncover the truth about what happened and why, Ignacio struggles knowing he was partly to blame for Tinley’s failure to reconnect after the horrible way he left years before. Having returned home to bury his grandfather, Ignacio would learn that Tinley was struggling to make ends meet, and in this Ignacio was hoping to become the father, and husband he had once dreamed to become. What ensues is the rebuilding but tempestuous relationship between Tinley and Ignacio, as Igancio tries to prove he is worthy of Tinley’s love.
The relationship between Tinley and Ignacio is a second chanced romance; high school sweethearts torn apart by heart break and pain, and one woman’s inability to move on from the past. Tinley Holland never did tell Ignacio that she as carrying his child, and in this our hero, battles between head and heart knowing he has lost twelve years of his son’s childhood in the wake of stubbornness and hurt feelings. Tinley Holland refuses to accept Ignacio Torres back into her life having raised her son as a single parent but all is not well in their area of Houston, and her son is about to pay the price. Tinley’s stubbornness and pride threatens the safety of the child she loves. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.
We are introduced to Tinley’s ailing grandmother Brooke Holland, as well as her estranged brother Cooper; and Ignacio’s son Alex; fellow Blackbridge security agents Wren, Quinten, Brooks Morgan; their boss Deacon Black, and Wren’s foul-mouthed bird Puff Daddy.
TRUTH BE TOLD is a story of secrets and lies; heart break and pain; death, grief, forgiveness and love. The premise is emotional and inviting; the romanced struggles in the face of betrayal and secrets; the characters are stubborn, spirited and impassioned.
www.thereadingcafe.com
February 23, 2021
Truth Be Told is a second-chance romance. This is different from her usual suspense and action books in this series. It was a bit of a slow burn romance. It is the story of Ignacio and Tinley. I had been anxiously awaiting their love story.
Ignacio broke Tinley's heart when they were teenagers and left her, making sure that she didn't try to look for him. He was trying to do the honorable thing and only wanted her to get out of poverty and make a life for herself that he didn't think he could provide. The only problem is, is that he left behind a piece of himself that she could never forget. Thirteen years later, he reappears on her doorstep. She is not so ready to forgive and forget though, and there is also a secret she has kept. There were times I wanted to shake both of these characters. Although Ignacio has the best intentions and is trying to protect Tinley, it falls short. Tinley was hard to connect with even though she was strong and endured a lot in her young life. She was beyond stubborn about forgiving Ignacio, lies, and then all of a sudden, she has a change of heart and forgives him. It was a bit frustrating and seemed too sudden. I enjoyed the end although it seemed rushed and felt like there were still some things left unfinished. I did like the chemistry between them though and was happy to see them get their HEA. This is very different from the other books in the Blackridge Security series. I loved seeing the guys band together to help Ignacio. Although I struggled with parts of this book, I did like the overall message of forgiveness and healing.
***ARC for an unbiased review.***
Ignacio broke Tinley's heart when they were teenagers and left her, making sure that she didn't try to look for him. He was trying to do the honorable thing and only wanted her to get out of poverty and make a life for herself that he didn't think he could provide. The only problem is, is that he left behind a piece of himself that she could never forget. Thirteen years later, he reappears on her doorstep. She is not so ready to forgive and forget though, and there is also a secret she has kept. There were times I wanted to shake both of these characters. Although Ignacio has the best intentions and is trying to protect Tinley, it falls short. Tinley was hard to connect with even though she was strong and endured a lot in her young life. She was beyond stubborn about forgiving Ignacio, lies, and then all of a sudden, she has a change of heart and forgives him. It was a bit frustrating and seemed too sudden. I enjoyed the end although it seemed rushed and felt like there were still some things left unfinished. I did like the chemistry between them though and was happy to see them get their HEA. This is very different from the other books in the Blackridge Security series. I loved seeing the guys band together to help Ignacio. Although I struggled with parts of this book, I did like the overall message of forgiveness and healing.
***ARC for an unbiased review.***
February 26, 2021
Enjoyable read - loved Ignacio!
”I’m instantly hit with memories, with emotions, with want and need and everything in between.”
When they were just seventeen, Ignacio Torres made a decision that broke both his and his girlfriend’s heart. She moved away with her family and he joined the army. Thirteen years later, he is back in their home town for a visit and sees Tinley Holland again. He is shocked to see her, as he thought that what he did would have lead her on to a better life out of their hellhole of a town. Not only is she living here, but she has a son – a boy who looks just like him.
”His lip are on mine, tongue demanding entrance to my mouth. He’s not asking or begging, he’s taking.”
My heart broke for Ignacio’s teenage decision but it said everything about him and his love for Tinley. Overall, I enjoyed this story as he forms a hard-won bond with his 12YO son. Alex is troubled but has a good heart. We can tell that he didn’t lack for love as he was growing up but times are tough for him and his mother. I loved Ignacio – he really won me over with his actions and I really thought that Tinley gave him a hell of a hard time. In all honesty, she got on my nerves because of the grudge she was determined to hold against him. She seemed unwilling to see him for the man he was now or even back when they were young, and how he much he clearly loved her back then. She totally judged him by the one single shocking action that broke them. So, yeah, I struggled to connect with her, as she was dogged in her determination to see the bad in him. They clearly had chemistry between them and some steamy moments, but Tinley was so stuck in her head. I was rooting for Ig all the way through because he was clearly a decent, protective and loving guy. I loved the Blackbridge guys and the banter, not to mention Puff Daddy the foul-mouthed parrot! LOL. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/R2JLFT7...
”I’m instantly hit with memories, with emotions, with want and need and everything in between.”
When they were just seventeen, Ignacio Torres made a decision that broke both his and his girlfriend’s heart. She moved away with her family and he joined the army. Thirteen years later, he is back in their home town for a visit and sees Tinley Holland again. He is shocked to see her, as he thought that what he did would have lead her on to a better life out of their hellhole of a town. Not only is she living here, but she has a son – a boy who looks just like him.
”His lip are on mine, tongue demanding entrance to my mouth. He’s not asking or begging, he’s taking.”
My heart broke for Ignacio’s teenage decision but it said everything about him and his love for Tinley. Overall, I enjoyed this story as he forms a hard-won bond with his 12YO son. Alex is troubled but has a good heart. We can tell that he didn’t lack for love as he was growing up but times are tough for him and his mother. I loved Ignacio – he really won me over with his actions and I really thought that Tinley gave him a hell of a hard time. In all honesty, she got on my nerves because of the grudge she was determined to hold against him. She seemed unwilling to see him for the man he was now or even back when they were young, and how he much he clearly loved her back then. She totally judged him by the one single shocking action that broke them. So, yeah, I struggled to connect with her, as she was dogged in her determination to see the bad in him. They clearly had chemistry between them and some steamy moments, but Tinley was so stuck in her head. I was rooting for Ig all the way through because he was clearly a decent, protective and loving guy. I loved the Blackbridge guys and the banter, not to mention Puff Daddy the foul-mouthed parrot! LOL. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/R2JLFT7...
February 23, 2021
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
Ignacio Torres had a hard life growing up when his grandfather dies he goes home to all those memories and to the girl who left him behind. Young love is hard and even harder when that love is pulled apart when Tinley leaves him before their senior year is over. he joins the service for a better life. Now he is part of Blackbridge Security. Learning Tinley's secret might be the hardest thing for him to accept.
Tinley has had a hard life since Ignacio broke her heart. Her family moved away from him and in the decade since she has seen him, her father has passed away, her mother is dying from cancer and she is dealing with everything on her own. When she sees him, her life seems to explore. Her heart wants to start beating for him again but she has to remember how he broke her heart when they last saw each other.
Can she trust him when he tells her he wants a future with her? Can Ignacio accept the truths of the past because of the way he treated her in the past? Will he accept the reasons for her not telling him her secret?
I have enjoyed this series and look forward to more. Each story is filled with all the feels it takes to make a good story even better. This one has a rough and tough alpha male that is brought to his knees by the woman who stole his heart when she was a teenage girl, and she never turned it loose.
Author Marie James has a way of telling these security men that make you want more or one of your own, I recommend this series if you haven't read her before.
Ignacio Torres had a hard life growing up when his grandfather dies he goes home to all those memories and to the girl who left him behind. Young love is hard and even harder when that love is pulled apart when Tinley leaves him before their senior year is over. he joins the service for a better life. Now he is part of Blackbridge Security. Learning Tinley's secret might be the hardest thing for him to accept.
Tinley has had a hard life since Ignacio broke her heart. Her family moved away from him and in the decade since she has seen him, her father has passed away, her mother is dying from cancer and she is dealing with everything on her own. When she sees him, her life seems to explore. Her heart wants to start beating for him again but she has to remember how he broke her heart when they last saw each other.
Can she trust him when he tells her he wants a future with her? Can Ignacio accept the truths of the past because of the way he treated her in the past? Will he accept the reasons for her not telling him her secret?
I have enjoyed this series and look forward to more. Each story is filled with all the feels it takes to make a good story even better. This one has a rough and tough alpha male that is brought to his knees by the woman who stole his heart when she was a teenage girl, and she never turned it loose.
Author Marie James has a way of telling these security men that make you want more or one of your own, I recommend this series if you haven't read her before.
February 22, 2021
If I may say so, this series is an absolute Must Read. Lord have mercy did I ever love Ignacio’s story! From the start of the series, Ignacio, the team's linguist, has intrigued me. In Truth Be Told we not only get his backstory but we also get to know the man hidden inside. Ignacio was a wild child in his youth, angry, destructive, running with the wrong crowd. The only good thing in his life back then was Tinley, his first and truth be told only real love. But he lies to her, breaks her heart and leaves town, thinking getting away would be his only escape from the path he was going down.
Now it’s 13 year later and he has to return home and as luck or fate would have it he runs into Tinley. From here the book takes off in a whirlwind of lies, secrets, discovery and pain. Ignacio and Tinley still have that spark, but can they get past the past long enough to figure out a possible future or has too much happened with too many lies told to keep them apart.
Marie James has such a way with storytelling that you can’t help but get lost in her world. This is very true with the men of Blackbridge Security. You can’t help but love them, root for them (ok maybe want to slap their head a time or too) but all in all you’ll feel more and more a part of their lives with each and every book. If you haven’t started the series… Grab up book 1, Hostile Territory, and get started - Trust me you won’t regret it. As for this reader, she can’t wait to find out what happens next with this amazing group of men.
2 Thumbs and 5++ Stars.
Now it’s 13 year later and he has to return home and as luck or fate would have it he runs into Tinley. From here the book takes off in a whirlwind of lies, secrets, discovery and pain. Ignacio and Tinley still have that spark, but can they get past the past long enough to figure out a possible future or has too much happened with too many lies told to keep them apart.
Marie James has such a way with storytelling that you can’t help but get lost in her world. This is very true with the men of Blackbridge Security. You can’t help but love them, root for them (ok maybe want to slap their head a time or too) but all in all you’ll feel more and more a part of their lives with each and every book. If you haven’t started the series… Grab up book 1, Hostile Territory, and get started - Trust me you won’t regret it. As for this reader, she can’t wait to find out what happens next with this amazing group of men.
2 Thumbs and 5++ Stars.
February 21, 2021
A second chance at love, this heartbreakingly beautiful story was filled with lies, betrayal, laughter, tears, hope, and devastation.
Returning to his hometown 13 years after he vowed never to, he learns the woman he loved and let go had kept secrets of her own. The push and pull between these two had me wanting to jump into the book and bang their stubborn heads together!!
When they connected, they really sizzled, through dark times Ig was always there trying hard to get back the relationship he threw away all those years ago. This book will make you cry, it will also make you laugh out loud.
It a highly emotional roller coaster ride right up to the end.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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Returning to his hometown 13 years after he vowed never to, he learns the woman he loved and let go had kept secrets of her own. The push and pull between these two had me wanting to jump into the book and bang their stubborn heads together!!
When they connected, they really sizzled, through dark times Ig was always there trying hard to get back the relationship he threw away all those years ago. This book will make you cry, it will also make you laugh out loud.
It a highly emotional roller coaster ride right up to the end.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
February 16, 2021
Truth Be Told (Blackbridge Security #4) by Marie James
4 stars
M/F Second chance romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Ignacio is back in a place that has nothing but terrible memories for him. Despite not truly wanting to come at the end of his grandfather's life, Ignacio felt obligated to do just that. The man truly hated Ignacio and abused him until Ignacio was able to leave on his own. And, to make matters worse, Ignacio let the love of his life go in this same town. He has lived with that guilt for years. Now, as a successful translator for an elite team, Ignacio wants to see his grandfather's estate settled and to get the heck out of town.
Tinley and her pre-teen son Alex are living on a shoe string. Tinley's mom is sick with cancer, Tinley is working her butt off to try and provide for everyone and Alex is being a petulant pre-teen who thinks the world ows him something. The very last person she wants to see is Ignacio, but apparently fate likes to spit in her face.
Tinley and Ignacio have to figure out of their history can be put aside. Ignacio sees the path that Alex is headed down. It was the same path he, himself walked. If Ignacio can help Alex side step some of those landmines and make Tinley's life easier, he wants to do that. He knows that old hurts are hard to move past, but he's hoping to re-write his and Tinley's history.
This story isn't full of steam or much passion. It's mostly a very predictable story with Ignacio in the center. There are a few twists, but for the most part, it's pretty sedate considering the previous books in this series. And, while it was entertaining to read, I don't think it was as much fun as the previous books. Despite that, I can't wait for more, because I love these guys.
4 stars
M/F Second chance romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Ignacio is back in a place that has nothing but terrible memories for him. Despite not truly wanting to come at the end of his grandfather's life, Ignacio felt obligated to do just that. The man truly hated Ignacio and abused him until Ignacio was able to leave on his own. And, to make matters worse, Ignacio let the love of his life go in this same town. He has lived with that guilt for years. Now, as a successful translator for an elite team, Ignacio wants to see his grandfather's estate settled and to get the heck out of town.
Tinley and her pre-teen son Alex are living on a shoe string. Tinley's mom is sick with cancer, Tinley is working her butt off to try and provide for everyone and Alex is being a petulant pre-teen who thinks the world ows him something. The very last person she wants to see is Ignacio, but apparently fate likes to spit in her face.
Tinley and Ignacio have to figure out of their history can be put aside. Ignacio sees the path that Alex is headed down. It was the same path he, himself walked. If Ignacio can help Alex side step some of those landmines and make Tinley's life easier, he wants to do that. He knows that old hurts are hard to move past, but he's hoping to re-write his and Tinley's history.
This story isn't full of steam or much passion. It's mostly a very predictable story with Ignacio in the center. There are a few twists, but for the most part, it's pretty sedate considering the previous books in this series. And, while it was entertaining to read, I don't think it was as much fun as the previous books. Despite that, I can't wait for more, because I love these guys.
February 22, 2021
This story brought out all the feels! It was more a story of learning to forgive and build a new life than one filled with the action and suspense you come to expect. Ignacio and Tinley have bad history so their second chance takes a lot more work and a lot more give. I loved the slow burn because it made it all worth it in the end. Another great addition to this series!! ~Andrea
"A sweet and tragic second chance romance, book 4 in the Blackbridge Security series.
Tinley and Ignacio were high school sweethearts , they had plans to be with each other forever, unit fate steps in and tears them apart.
Fast forward to years later when Ignacio has to return to his hometown to take care of family business. Tinley, has fallen on more hard times than good, living back in her hometown with her 12 year old son and taking care of her ailing mother. How will it go when they see each other for the first time?
Their story is an emotional rollercoaster until the end. I loved this couple, and can’t wait for more.
" ~Stephanie
"A sweet and tragic second chance romance, book 4 in the Blackbridge Security series.
Tinley and Ignacio were high school sweethearts , they had plans to be with each other forever, unit fate steps in and tears them apart.
Fast forward to years later when Ignacio has to return to his hometown to take care of family business. Tinley, has fallen on more hard times than good, living back in her hometown with her 12 year old son and taking care of her ailing mother. How will it go when they see each other for the first time?
Their story is an emotional rollercoaster until the end. I loved this couple, and can’t wait for more.
" ~Stephanie
February 22, 2021
This is the 4th book in this amazing series and is Ignacio and Tinsley’s story. These two were together in high school when Ignacio told a few lies and left town leaving a heartbroken Tinsley behind. Ignacio is the translator for Brackbridge security and now 13-years later when Ig returns to town, he sees a boy who is a replica of himself. Tinsley is a single mom to a teenager, and she is angry when Ig turns back up and demands answers. Bring into the mix the crazy shenanigans of the Blackbridge crew and Puff Daddy a dirty talking bird, and this story is more that entertaining. This is a well written story which is a slow burn 2nd chance romance story, with emotions, danger, suspense, communication, friendships, and forgiveness, and this all leads to a humorous and wonderful story. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
February 27, 2021
DNF at chapter 10. I really really really didn't like Ignacio. For me, he was just... smug. I felt for Tinley cos he was the one who told her that she was good pussy and nothing else. Why in the hell would she want him to know about Alex if that is the kind of man that he is? Great role model? Someone who you would want to shape a boy's life? No. Not at all. She made that decision and I think it was the right one for the circumstances.
The thing is, I just don't care about them. Tinley is the only one that I want to try to create some sort of empathy for. Couldn't give a shit about dickhead Ignacio.
So, I stopped... cos, whilst you know how this trope is going to play out, I was not interested.
( Just re-read my 'review' of book 1... at least I lasted for 1 more chapter with that one!! LOL )
The thing is, I just don't care about them. Tinley is the only one that I want to try to create some sort of empathy for. Couldn't give a shit about dickhead Ignacio.
So, I stopped... cos, whilst you know how this trope is going to play out, I was not interested.
( Just re-read my 'review' of book 1... at least I lasted for 1 more chapter with that one!! LOL )
May 25, 2022
EW. EW. EW.
i love love LOVED the second book in this series it gave me Anna Hackett vibes but he was a nerd as well as her and thats my sweet spot
this man oh my god i want to erase from memory
the plot is basically that he and his gf broke up when they were 18 and he thought that he was protecting her but he didnt know that she was pregnant so 13 years later oooh whoopsie daisy heres ur kid!!! and whenever they had spicey times he like came immediately and there was ZERO foreplay like i know i know nothing but this just seems wrong!?!? the plot was also just nonexistent so i dont think im gonna read the rest of the series
i love love LOVED the second book in this series it gave me Anna Hackett vibes but he was a nerd as well as her and thats my sweet spot
this man oh my god i want to erase from memory
the plot is basically that he and his gf broke up when they were 18 and he thought that he was protecting her but he didnt know that she was pregnant so 13 years later oooh whoopsie daisy heres ur kid!!! and whenever they had spicey times he like came immediately and there was ZERO foreplay like i know i know nothing but this just seems wrong!?!? the plot was also just nonexistent so i dont think im gonna read the rest of the series
February 23, 2021
The author wrote an emotionally gripping story that really tugs at your heart strings. Tinsley and Ignacio are high school sweethearts break up and Ig vows never to return to his hometown. Thirteen years later he is back in town and sees Tinsley but secrets, lies and betrayal will stand in their way. Will their stubbornness be their downfall? The chemistry between these two sizzles, they were meant for each other. This is a story of second chances and true love, if they get their heads on straight.
February 26, 2021
Ignacio and Tinsley were childhood sweethearts until he broke her heart by leaving her. Now it is year later and Ignacio works as a translator for Blackbridge Security with a totally different life than the tough one he had as a teenager. Tinsley is still on his mind as he always loved her. He arrives to take care of family business after his grandfather has a stroke only to find out that Tinsley was keeping a huge secret of her own. The couple will have to go through much turmoil to get their second chance.
February 15, 2021
NEW to me author and books, Review as always on my Blog -> CLICK HERE
June 20, 2021
This was a tear jerker. Terminal illness, death, a secret baby now 12 years old, just a heavy book.
I didn't feel the romance either. The book revolved around all of the illness, finding out about the kid, etc.
I didn't feel the romance either. The book revolved around all of the illness, finding out about the kid, etc.
February 26, 2021
Marie James blows me away again with Truth Be Told. I read this emotional second chance romance in one sitting! I could not put it down. I have loved this series from the beginning, and Ignacio and Tingley's story was the perfect addition. This author never disappoints with her characters and story lines. Development is on point every time and as always, the author has left me impatiently waiting on her next release!
Highly recommend this series!
Highly recommend this series!
June 12, 2022
Good read.
This series keeps getting better with each book. I like the way the author sets the book around the main characters but still keeps all of the others involved.
This series keeps getting better with each book. I like the way the author sets the book around the main characters but still keeps all of the others involved.
February 25, 2021
My thoughts on this review are mixed! We loved the fact that the story had a ton of emotion, and we really loved Alex and Ignacio but, Tinley on the other hand we never warmed up to she irritated us throughout the entire book.
We loved Ignacio because he was super sweet and tried to make up for lost time with Alex and even though it was slow-going with him, he was patient and kind and loving, and he was even willing to uproot his life in order to be part of Tinley's and Alex's life in some way shape or form. The story itself was full of emotion and had a ton of sadness, and it was also about healing and hopefully about putting the past to bed once and for all.
Other reviewers feel that this was a slow burn romance and about second chances, and I am on board with a couple who clearly loved each other deeply getting another chance to make things work out but, for us, I never felt any kind of chemistry between these characters need and lust yes but, never chemistry. We could not get over the fact that Tinley never gave and inch when it came to Ignacio until what seemed like forever. We didn't like the fact that this couple never really cleared the air between them of what happened and why Ignacio made those declarations all those years ago, and although they may have had words in passing they never really got to the heart of the matter in the beginning or the middle of the story things just seem to drag out.
Tinsley was not perfect by a long shot, and yet, she kept secrets that would change the lives of others forever and still she held a grudge against Ignacio for almost thirteen years. We understood the hurt and the pain she felt then and now especially with the knocks' life kept throwing at her but, for a mother who claimed to want to protect her son even if it is from his father she never really made an effort to get to know him and who that man he was now and of all that he had accomplished their time apart. There was also the fact he was no longer that same troubled kid who made some questionable choices like he did in his youth she just kept assuming he was still that same man without putting forth any effort to find out who he was in the now. Pot calling kettle?
We had to admire Tinsley for all that she sacrificed for her son to make sure he was provided for and happy and loved and with everything she was handling in her life recently she comes off strong and confident women.
Overall we enjoyed parts of this story because I loved the relationship that was being mended and forged between Alex and Ignacio. We loved that Puff Daddy made us laugh yet again.
We even enjoyed the teasing by Ignacio and his friends and comrades but, for us this was a supposed to be a love story and about a man who works at a security firm right? That brings some kind of drama or danger right? Where was the danger that his type of job brings? Where was any kind of action on said job he was sent on or even more than just a mention of it? The story was missing any kind of suspense or drama meaning job related. We felt that this story never even really touched on the fact that Ignacio job can be dangerous. You think Security Firm and Romance you think romantic suspense where was the suspense part? Where was the chemistry and romance? When they say slow burn it was more of a snails pace. We just felt the plot lacking.
Overall we enjoy this authors stories but, I honestly felt myself drifting off at times with this one. Maybe we are just nit-picking and have to remember this story is fiction and not fact, and maybe it's because Tinley never made us like or even love her and I hate when that happens but, the story just did not engage me to the point of being excited to keep turning the pages and not being able to put it down, and I think that is what was missing most of all for us is the fact that we didn't feel that way this time around. Even though I had issues with the story Ignacio and Alex made us love them, so that is why the story warrants four stars from us and not three.
We loved Ignacio because he was super sweet and tried to make up for lost time with Alex and even though it was slow-going with him, he was patient and kind and loving, and he was even willing to uproot his life in order to be part of Tinley's and Alex's life in some way shape or form. The story itself was full of emotion and had a ton of sadness, and it was also about healing and hopefully about putting the past to bed once and for all.
Other reviewers feel that this was a slow burn romance and about second chances, and I am on board with a couple who clearly loved each other deeply getting another chance to make things work out but, for us, I never felt any kind of chemistry between these characters need and lust yes but, never chemistry. We could not get over the fact that Tinley never gave and inch when it came to Ignacio until what seemed like forever. We didn't like the fact that this couple never really cleared the air between them of what happened and why Ignacio made those declarations all those years ago, and although they may have had words in passing they never really got to the heart of the matter in the beginning or the middle of the story things just seem to drag out.
Tinsley was not perfect by a long shot, and yet, she kept secrets that would change the lives of others forever and still she held a grudge against Ignacio for almost thirteen years. We understood the hurt and the pain she felt then and now especially with the knocks' life kept throwing at her but, for a mother who claimed to want to protect her son even if it is from his father she never really made an effort to get to know him and who that man he was now and of all that he had accomplished their time apart. There was also the fact he was no longer that same troubled kid who made some questionable choices like he did in his youth she just kept assuming he was still that same man without putting forth any effort to find out who he was in the now. Pot calling kettle?
We had to admire Tinsley for all that she sacrificed for her son to make sure he was provided for and happy and loved and with everything she was handling in her life recently she comes off strong and confident women.
Overall we enjoyed parts of this story because I loved the relationship that was being mended and forged between Alex and Ignacio. We loved that Puff Daddy made us laugh yet again.
We even enjoyed the teasing by Ignacio and his friends and comrades but, for us this was a supposed to be a love story and about a man who works at a security firm right? That brings some kind of drama or danger right? Where was the danger that his type of job brings? Where was any kind of action on said job he was sent on or even more than just a mention of it? The story was missing any kind of suspense or drama meaning job related. We felt that this story never even really touched on the fact that Ignacio job can be dangerous. You think Security Firm and Romance you think romantic suspense where was the suspense part? Where was the chemistry and romance? When they say slow burn it was more of a snails pace. We just felt the plot lacking.
Overall we enjoy this authors stories but, I honestly felt myself drifting off at times with this one. Maybe we are just nit-picking and have to remember this story is fiction and not fact, and maybe it's because Tinley never made us like or even love her and I hate when that happens but, the story just did not engage me to the point of being excited to keep turning the pages and not being able to put it down, and I think that is what was missing most of all for us is the fact that we didn't feel that way this time around. Even though I had issues with the story Ignacio and Alex made us love them, so that is why the story warrants four stars from us and not three.
February 23, 2021
Check out our full post for TRUTH BE TOLD on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Second-Chance Romance
Ignacio is back in a place that has nothing but terrible memories for him. Despite not truly wanting to come at the end of his grandfather's life, Ignacio felt obligated to do just that. The man truly hated Ignacio and abused him until Ignacio was able to leave on his own. And to make matters worse, Ignacio let the love of his life go in this same town. He has lived with that guilt for years. Now, as a successful translator for an elite team, Ignacio wants to see his grandfather's estate settled and to get the heck out of town.
Tinley and her pre-teen son, Alex, are living on a shoestring. Tinley's mom is sick with cancer, Tinley is working her butt off to try and provide for everyone, and Alex is being a petulant pre-teen who thinks the world owes him something. The very last person she wants to see is Ignacio, but apparently fate likes to spit in her face.
Tinley and Ignacio have to figure out if their history can be put aside. Ignacio sees the path that Alex is headed down. It was the same path he himself walked. If Ignacio can help Alex sidestep some of those landmines and make Tinley's life easier, he wants to do that. He knows that old hurts are hard to move past, but he's hoping to re-write his and Tinley's history.
This story isn't full of steam or much passion. It's mostly a very predictable story with Ignacio in the center. There are a few twists, but for the most part, it's pretty sedate considering the previous books in this series. And while it was entertaining to read, I don't think it was as much fun as the previous books. Despite that, I can't wait for more, because I love these guys.
Mary – ☆☆☆☆
Ignacio Torres had a hard life growing up; when his grandfather dies, he goes home to all those memories and to the girl who left him behind. Young love is hard and even harder when that love is pulled apart when Tinley leaves him before their senior year is over. He joins the service for a better life. Now he is part of Blackbridge Security. Learning Tinley's secret might be the hardest thing for him to accept.
Tinley has had a hard life since Ignacio broke her heart. Her family moved away from him and in the decade since she has seen him, her father has passed away, her mother is dying from cancer, and she is dealing with everything on her own. When she sees him, her life seems to explode. Her heart wants to start beating for him again, but she has to remember how he broke her heart when they last saw each other.
Can she trust him when he tells her he wants a future with her? Can Ignacio accept the truths of the past because of the way he treated her in the past? Will he accept the reasons for her not telling him her secret?
I have enjoyed this series and look forward to more. Each story is filled with all the feels it takes to make a good story even better. This one has a rough and tough alpha male that is brought to his knees by the woman who stole his heart when she was a teenage girl, and she never turned it loose.
Author Marie James has a way of telling these security men’s stories that make you want more, or one of your own. I recommend this series if you haven't read her before.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
February 19, 2021
I love these guys at Blackbridge Security and always enjoy the love story mixed with an intense story. In Truth Be Told Marie James takes a step away from her suspenseful tale and gives us a story about second chances and learning to forgive after a lifetime of lies and betrayal.
Ignacio Torres broke his girlfriend, Tinley's, heart when they were in high school. He did it to protect her and to make sure she never came looking for him. When they were seniors in high school he had no future, no way out of the tiny town they lived in and nothing to offer her but a life of poverty. When he returns to his home town after thirteen years he knew he made the right decision when all he sees is broken down buildings, homelessness and a town even more in despair than even he remembers. The first moment he second guesses that decision is when he sees a teenage boy that resembles him walking behind the only woman he ever loved.
Tinley was broken when Ignacio left. He obliterated her heart and tore their relationship to shreds, demeaning and belittling everything they shared. There was no question in her mind that a man who had no desire to care about her would not care about the child they created. Thirteen years passed and time wasn't easy on her as a single mother, but her stubbornness has never allowed her to quit or give up. Alex, her son, is hers and she loves him and would never take back her time spent with Ignacio even knowing how it all ended. However, when Ignacio shows up on her doorstep she's angry and scared. She won't allow him to take away her son and forgiving the man who suddenly appears is going to take time. The idea of some big happy family will never happen because she doesn't know if she can ever forgive him.
Both Tinley and Ignacio are in a state of stubborn anger towards each other for a lot of the story. So while this is a second chance romance, even more than that it's a story about forgiveness and really learning how to communicate. These two people have a son, who is in the middle trying to navigate his parents while learning about their new dynamic as well. I like how he processed things as he learned about the history on each of them and in turn really gave his parents things to think about.
Of all the books in the Blackbridge series, this one doesn't have the suspenseful/action aspect, but the relationship growth between all of the characters made this story just as good and a worthy part of the series.
Ignacio Torres broke his girlfriend, Tinley's, heart when they were in high school. He did it to protect her and to make sure she never came looking for him. When they were seniors in high school he had no future, no way out of the tiny town they lived in and nothing to offer her but a life of poverty. When he returns to his home town after thirteen years he knew he made the right decision when all he sees is broken down buildings, homelessness and a town even more in despair than even he remembers. The first moment he second guesses that decision is when he sees a teenage boy that resembles him walking behind the only woman he ever loved.
Tinley was broken when Ignacio left. He obliterated her heart and tore their relationship to shreds, demeaning and belittling everything they shared. There was no question in her mind that a man who had no desire to care about her would not care about the child they created. Thirteen years passed and time wasn't easy on her as a single mother, but her stubbornness has never allowed her to quit or give up. Alex, her son, is hers and she loves him and would never take back her time spent with Ignacio even knowing how it all ended. However, when Ignacio shows up on her doorstep she's angry and scared. She won't allow him to take away her son and forgiving the man who suddenly appears is going to take time. The idea of some big happy family will never happen because she doesn't know if she can ever forgive him.
Both Tinley and Ignacio are in a state of stubborn anger towards each other for a lot of the story. So while this is a second chance romance, even more than that it's a story about forgiveness and really learning how to communicate. These two people have a son, who is in the middle trying to navigate his parents while learning about their new dynamic as well. I like how he processed things as he learned about the history on each of them and in turn really gave his parents things to think about.
Of all the books in the Blackbridge series, this one doesn't have the suspenseful/action aspect, but the relationship growth between all of the characters made this story just as good and a worthy part of the series.
February 25, 2021
(ENG-ESP)
✨ When I love a book so much, I don't know where to start.
Ignacio has definitely grew old and mature with time. When he broke up with Tinley, making her sure to leave town, he was an 18 year old boy doing what he thought was right.
When Ignacio comes back to town and starts doing math, discovering the secret she kept, Tinley is still mad and scared. In the beginning I don't think I felt much empathy to her but when I did, I understand. I don't think what she did was right, but I understand.
The first lie that Ignacio told her that night, hunts them for a while and I think if I were in that situation, it'd probably do the same to me. He was kind of a jerk, but you know his reason to say that things since the beginning, which I appreciate.
I wish I could tell you about how many times this book made me cry, or reminded me of something. There was a special part when I totally saw my mom in there. I had to go and hug her. It’s an amazing book, I read in one day because I couldn't stop!
Please read this and give Ignacio, Tinley and Alejandro a chance, I'm pretty sure you're going to love them!
✨ Cuando amo demasiado un libro, nunca sé por dónde empezar.
Ignacio definitivamente creció y maduró con el tiempo. Cuando terminó con Tinley, asegurándose que dejara la ciudad, era un muchacho de 18 años haciendo lo que creyó era lo mejor.
Cuando vuelve a la ciudad y comienza a hacer cuentas, descubriendo el secreto que ella guardó, Tinley está enojada y asustada. En un principio no creo haber sentido mucha empatía hacia ella pero después pude entender. No creo que lo que hizo estuviera correcto, pero entendí.
La primera mentira que Ignacio le dijo aquella noche, los sigue persiguiendo por un tiempo. Honestamente, si estuviera en esta situación también lo haría. Él fue un idiota, pero sabes por qué dijo las cosas que dijo desde el inicio, lo que agradezco.
Quisiera decirles cuantas veces este libro me hizo llorar o recordar algo. Hubo una parte especial donde vi a mi mamá reflejada. Tuve que ir a abrazarla. Es un libro maravilloso, lo leí en un día porque no podía parar.
Por favor lean este libro y denle a Ignacio, Tinley y Alejandro una oportunidad ¡estoy segura que los van a amar!
✨ When I love a book so much, I don't know where to start.
Ignacio has definitely grew old and mature with time. When he broke up with Tinley, making her sure to leave town, he was an 18 year old boy doing what he thought was right.
When Ignacio comes back to town and starts doing math, discovering the secret she kept, Tinley is still mad and scared. In the beginning I don't think I felt much empathy to her but when I did, I understand. I don't think what she did was right, but I understand.
The first lie that Ignacio told her that night, hunts them for a while and I think if I were in that situation, it'd probably do the same to me. He was kind of a jerk, but you know his reason to say that things since the beginning, which I appreciate.
I wish I could tell you about how many times this book made me cry, or reminded me of something. There was a special part when I totally saw my mom in there. I had to go and hug her. It’s an amazing book, I read in one day because I couldn't stop!
Please read this and give Ignacio, Tinley and Alejandro a chance, I'm pretty sure you're going to love them!
✨ Cuando amo demasiado un libro, nunca sé por dónde empezar.
Ignacio definitivamente creció y maduró con el tiempo. Cuando terminó con Tinley, asegurándose que dejara la ciudad, era un muchacho de 18 años haciendo lo que creyó era lo mejor.
Cuando vuelve a la ciudad y comienza a hacer cuentas, descubriendo el secreto que ella guardó, Tinley está enojada y asustada. En un principio no creo haber sentido mucha empatía hacia ella pero después pude entender. No creo que lo que hizo estuviera correcto, pero entendí.
La primera mentira que Ignacio le dijo aquella noche, los sigue persiguiendo por un tiempo. Honestamente, si estuviera en esta situación también lo haría. Él fue un idiota, pero sabes por qué dijo las cosas que dijo desde el inicio, lo que agradezco.
Quisiera decirles cuantas veces este libro me hizo llorar o recordar algo. Hubo una parte especial donde vi a mi mamá reflejada. Tuve que ir a abrazarla. Es un libro maravilloso, lo leí en un día porque no podía parar.
Por favor lean este libro y denle a Ignacio, Tinley y Alejandro una oportunidad ¡estoy segura que los van a amar!
February 14, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review by Kristie K
Truth be Told
By: Marie James
Hits right in the feels...
High school sweethearts Ignacio and Tinley had plans. They were gonna get out of their crappy area in South Houston, live life and love one another. When Tinley has news that will change these plans, Ignacio sees an opportunity for the love of his life to get out sooner than planned, and gives the push she needs to make it happen. Unfortunately, his push for her freedom takes the form of cruel words and broken hearts. Youth, anger, and hurt are a devastating combination, causing Tinley to make cruel decisions of her own that will have lasting and equally devastating consequences. When fate throws them back together after thirteen years, the lies and deception will all come to light. The question is, will they emerge as broken as they went in, or will this shatter them completely?
Ignacio Torres has the patience of a saint. Though the same can’t be said for his younger self, the man he has become...definitely. Add in a heart the size of the state he grew up in, and you have the full package. Patient, kind, compassionate, loving, strong, and loyal...aka, Ignacio Torres. Don’t get me wrong, I was pissed as hell at him in the beginning, but watching him fight for redemption melted that ice around my heart. Tinley, on the other hand, tried my patience for the last half of the book. I get that she was hurt, but dayum girl! Her stubborn streak would make a priest curse. That said, I still loved her spirit. Her unbreakable resolve and fight for her family was admirable. I hated what she went through, and hurt for her throughout. Her strength was unmatched, and I was so grateful when she finally let down her walls to let herself be loved, even if that flip seemed to switch in the blink of an eye. This book wasn’t about an action packed mission, but a personal one. The battles fought were battles of the heart, the soul, and had as much or more impact on the characters as any other mission. Another great addition to the Blackbridge family, well done yet again Ms. James.
Kristie K
Truth be Told
By: Marie James
Hits right in the feels...
High school sweethearts Ignacio and Tinley had plans. They were gonna get out of their crappy area in South Houston, live life and love one another. When Tinley has news that will change these plans, Ignacio sees an opportunity for the love of his life to get out sooner than planned, and gives the push she needs to make it happen. Unfortunately, his push for her freedom takes the form of cruel words and broken hearts. Youth, anger, and hurt are a devastating combination, causing Tinley to make cruel decisions of her own that will have lasting and equally devastating consequences. When fate throws them back together after thirteen years, the lies and deception will all come to light. The question is, will they emerge as broken as they went in, or will this shatter them completely?
Ignacio Torres has the patience of a saint. Though the same can’t be said for his younger self, the man he has become...definitely. Add in a heart the size of the state he grew up in, and you have the full package. Patient, kind, compassionate, loving, strong, and loyal...aka, Ignacio Torres. Don’t get me wrong, I was pissed as hell at him in the beginning, but watching him fight for redemption melted that ice around my heart. Tinley, on the other hand, tried my patience for the last half of the book. I get that she was hurt, but dayum girl! Her stubborn streak would make a priest curse. That said, I still loved her spirit. Her unbreakable resolve and fight for her family was admirable. I hated what she went through, and hurt for her throughout. Her strength was unmatched, and I was so grateful when she finally let down her walls to let herself be loved, even if that flip seemed to switch in the blink of an eye. This book wasn’t about an action packed mission, but a personal one. The battles fought were battles of the heart, the soul, and had as much or more impact on the characters as any other mission. Another great addition to the Blackbridge family, well done yet again Ms. James.
Kristie K
February 23, 2021
Truth Be Told is the fourth book of Marie James’ Blackbridge Security series. They are all marketed as stand-alone titles, but if you were going to choose just one book to read in the series, this is the one I’d recommend. Especially if emotional, angsty books are more your speed than romantic suspense.
Ignacia and Tinley fell hard for each other and thought they were going to spend forever together. Until circumstances and a well-placed lie forced them to go separate ways. Now, they both find themselves back in their hometown, and Ignacia is blown away by the secret Tinley has kept from him for so long. With so much hurt, anger, and distrust between them, is there any hope that they can overcome any of it?
There is a lot to unpack between the covers of this book. As the saying goes, there’s a thin line between love and hate, and when Ignacio shoves Tinley over that line thinking he’s doing the right thing, the ripple effect has far-reaching consequences. Both of them are hotheads and driven by emotion. And while they’ve both grown and matured, the animosity on Tinley’s part has festered and morphed into something giant for years. I wanted to do an intervention with these two so badly! So. Much. Angst. But I understood where Tinley was coming from even while my heart broke for Ignacio. They do get their HEA, but man, is it hard-fought!
Of all of the Blackbridge Security books, I think this may have just tied with the first book. But that’s almost like comparing apples and oranges. Book one was a fast-paced romantic suspense, while this one was definitely a more emotional read. And even though Deacon and Anna had a history in Hostile Territory, it was nothing compared to the past that Inacio and Tinley share. So it’s really tough to pick my favorite here. Regardless, as a series junkie, I say give them all a try. I’ve loved watching the brotherhood and camaraderie develop and grow among the Blackbridge guys along the way. And who wouldn’t love a parrot with a huge personality like Puff Daddy?!
NICUnurse’s Rating: I give Truth Be Told by Marie James 4.5 out of 5 stars!
Ignacia and Tinley fell hard for each other and thought they were going to spend forever together. Until circumstances and a well-placed lie forced them to go separate ways. Now, they both find themselves back in their hometown, and Ignacia is blown away by the secret Tinley has kept from him for so long. With so much hurt, anger, and distrust between them, is there any hope that they can overcome any of it?
There is a lot to unpack between the covers of this book. As the saying goes, there’s a thin line between love and hate, and when Ignacio shoves Tinley over that line thinking he’s doing the right thing, the ripple effect has far-reaching consequences. Both of them are hotheads and driven by emotion. And while they’ve both grown and matured, the animosity on Tinley’s part has festered and morphed into something giant for years. I wanted to do an intervention with these two so badly! So. Much. Angst. But I understood where Tinley was coming from even while my heart broke for Ignacio. They do get their HEA, but man, is it hard-fought!
Of all of the Blackbridge Security books, I think this may have just tied with the first book. But that’s almost like comparing apples and oranges. Book one was a fast-paced romantic suspense, while this one was definitely a more emotional read. And even though Deacon and Anna had a history in Hostile Territory, it was nothing compared to the past that Inacio and Tinley share. So it’s really tough to pick my favorite here. Regardless, as a series junkie, I say give them all a try. I’ve loved watching the brotherhood and camaraderie develop and grow among the Blackbridge guys along the way. And who wouldn’t love a parrot with a huge personality like Puff Daddy?!
NICUnurse’s Rating: I give Truth Be Told by Marie James 4.5 out of 5 stars!
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