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Again
How far would you go for a second chance? Eleven years after flunking out of college, Kate has finally hit rock-bottom. Losing her job and boyfriend in one drunken night, she’s determined to fix her life by going back to the moment when she let partying and sex take over. And do things right this time. At twenty-nine, she heads back to freshman year of college, with a catch. Pretending she's nineteen with a new roommate and full class schedule is easy. When she meets her shy, sexy and seven-years-younger RA, Carter, following her self-imposed sobriety and celibacy rules is proving to be anything but. A senior enduring years of regret, Carter is more than ready to graduate. He’s anxious to move on from the party his freshman year where he witnessed his frat brothers about to commit a sexual assault. Instead of doing the right thing and stepping in, he looked the other way and left. His guilt has made for a lonely four years. When he meets the new freshman on his floor, spunky and confident Kate, he wonders if his time as an outcast has finally come to an end. Kate and Carter’s growing friendship and undeniable attraction make it harder to hide the demons from their respective pasts. But when their secrets are finally revealed, will their chance at starting over together still be there?
362 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2014
4 people are currently reading
1038 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Burstein
9 books441 followersLisa Burstein is a tea seller by day and a writer by night. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from the Inland Northwest Center for Writers at Eastern Washington University. She is the author of Pretty Amy, The Next Forever, Dear Cassie, Sneaking Candy, The Possibility of Us and Again. As well as a contributor to the essay collection, Break These Rules: 35 YA Authors On Speaking Up, Standing Out, and Being Yourself. She lives in Portland, Oregon with her very patient husband, a neurotic dog and two cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 24, 2014
2.5 STARS
Genre: NA college romance
Cover: 7/10
Writing: 7/10
Heroine: 7/10
Hero: 7/10
Humour: 4/10
Hotness: 2/10
Romance: 6/10
Extra book Details: Heroine & Hero POV; 1st person. Stand-alone.
I did love the blurb for this. But I just got bored soo much.
I liked it up until the 15% mark, then it just got monotonous. The same things were going round and round in the characters heads all the time and it didn't lift until 70% when the cat slowly crawled it's way out of the bag. Even the revelation of each others secrets wasn't that exciting.
There was a lot of inner-monologue inbetween dialogue; someone would speak, then there was a lot of thought, then the other would respond.
It meant I had to go back and read the first dialogue because of all the thinking the character did inbetween their response meant I’d lost track of the conversation.
Otherwise the characters were nice, I enjoyed the heroine's wit and the hero's vulnerability. I liked the role reversal, but there needed to be a lot more goings on for me to enjoy the majority of the book.
I. Got. Bored.
Genre: NA college romance
Cover: 7/10
Writing: 7/10
Heroine: 7/10
Hero: 7/10
Humour: 4/10
Hotness: 2/10
Romance: 6/10
Extra book Details: Heroine & Hero POV; 1st person. Stand-alone.
I did love the blurb for this. But I just got bored soo much.
I liked it up until the 15% mark, then it just got monotonous. The same things were going round and round in the characters heads all the time and it didn't lift until 70% when the cat slowly crawled it's way out of the bag. Even the revelation of each others secrets wasn't that exciting.
There was a lot of inner-monologue inbetween dialogue; someone would speak, then there was a lot of thought, then the other would respond.
It meant I had to go back and read the first dialogue because of all the thinking the character did inbetween their response meant I’d lost track of the conversation.
Otherwise the characters were nice, I enjoyed the heroine's wit and the hero's vulnerability. I liked the role reversal, but there needed to be a lot more goings on for me to enjoy the majority of the book.
I. Got. Bored.
October 6, 2014
3.5 Stars
The concept for the novel Again is brilliant. I felt like this book was written for me. Although I’m way past 29, I would love to go back to college and do it all over again. Just like Kate, I went to an upstate New York college, had a crush on my RA, and spent a lot of my time partying. Although I’m happy with where I am in my life right now, I always wonder what would have happened to me if I had made studying my number one priority.
Kate has just been fired from her job in New York City, where she was having an affair with her married and much older boss, and is an alcoholic. Sick of it all, she decides that it’s either rehab or starting over from where her life took a turn for the worse, her Freshman year in college. Her first time through college, she had only completed a semester before being kicked out for alcohol, and alcohol has been her demon, following her over the next 10 years. Using her grandmothers inheritance money to bank roll one semester, she puts her apartment up for rent, doctors up her transcript and legal documents, and heads to Hudson University to study pre-law.
Although she worries that she’ll be caught, pretending to be a nineteen year old college student is easy for Kate because she’s always looked younger than her age. On her first day in the dorms she runs into her handsome RA, Carter, who has a secret of his own. Everyone on campus knows about it, but since Kate is new, he feels like he can actually be himself around her, instead of wondering what she really thinks of him. Kate has 2 rules that she wants to follow this time around: No Alcohol and No Guys. Eventually she not only breaks both rules, but a surprise visit from an old acquaintance threatens to ruin her plans. It’s also a surprise that I never saw coming.
I really liked Kate and Carter. Kate is immature, but very funny and sarcastic. I did laugh a lot at her dialogue in the book. Carter, on the other hand is mature and incredibly sweet. You wouldn’t think they would fall for each other, but they balance one another out quite well. Kate needs that stability in her life, and Carter needs to let loose sometimes. The secondary characters also added a lot of humor to the story, including Kate’s Goth roommate Dawn, and her hilarious and outgoing best friend and party girl, Veronica. At one point in the story Veronica visits Kate on campus, as her “pretend” older sister. Kate takes her to a party, where Veronica buys 7 cups at the door yelling out loud that she has six cups for the six hottest guys. It was ridiculously funny to watch her excitement over being on a college campus again.
I would not describe Again as a descriptive, deep or emotional type of book. It’s sort of skims over the surface and is a quick and easy read. I also would have loved to see more romantic interaction between Kate and Carter, and a more well rounded Epilogue. Although I love the book cover, it also doesn’t convey the actual storyline, in my opinion. I was happy though to see that Kate did learn some valuable lessons from the experience, and that Carter was finally able to come to terms with his past.
This was my first read from Lisa Burstein, and I’m definitely going back to add her earlier books to my tbr. Not only does she write New Adult, but she also writes Young Adult, my favorite genre. This is a great New Adult novel for those looking for a unique, easy and humorous read.
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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The concept for the novel Again is brilliant. I felt like this book was written for me. Although I’m way past 29, I would love to go back to college and do it all over again. Just like Kate, I went to an upstate New York college, had a crush on my RA, and spent a lot of my time partying. Although I’m happy with where I am in my life right now, I always wonder what would have happened to me if I had made studying my number one priority.
Kate has just been fired from her job in New York City, where she was having an affair with her married and much older boss, and is an alcoholic. Sick of it all, she decides that it’s either rehab or starting over from where her life took a turn for the worse, her Freshman year in college. Her first time through college, she had only completed a semester before being kicked out for alcohol, and alcohol has been her demon, following her over the next 10 years. Using her grandmothers inheritance money to bank roll one semester, she puts her apartment up for rent, doctors up her transcript and legal documents, and heads to Hudson University to study pre-law.
Although she worries that she’ll be caught, pretending to be a nineteen year old college student is easy for Kate because she’s always looked younger than her age. On her first day in the dorms she runs into her handsome RA, Carter, who has a secret of his own. Everyone on campus knows about it, but since Kate is new, he feels like he can actually be himself around her, instead of wondering what she really thinks of him. Kate has 2 rules that she wants to follow this time around: No Alcohol and No Guys. Eventually she not only breaks both rules, but a surprise visit from an old acquaintance threatens to ruin her plans. It’s also a surprise that I never saw coming.
I really liked Kate and Carter. Kate is immature, but very funny and sarcastic. I did laugh a lot at her dialogue in the book. Carter, on the other hand is mature and incredibly sweet. You wouldn’t think they would fall for each other, but they balance one another out quite well. Kate needs that stability in her life, and Carter needs to let loose sometimes. The secondary characters also added a lot of humor to the story, including Kate’s Goth roommate Dawn, and her hilarious and outgoing best friend and party girl, Veronica. At one point in the story Veronica visits Kate on campus, as her “pretend” older sister. Kate takes her to a party, where Veronica buys 7 cups at the door yelling out loud that she has six cups for the six hottest guys. It was ridiculously funny to watch her excitement over being on a college campus again.
I would not describe Again as a descriptive, deep or emotional type of book. It’s sort of skims over the surface and is a quick and easy read. I also would have loved to see more romantic interaction between Kate and Carter, and a more well rounded Epilogue. Although I love the book cover, it also doesn’t convey the actual storyline, in my opinion. I was happy though to see that Kate did learn some valuable lessons from the experience, and that Carter was finally able to come to terms with his past.
This was my first read from Lisa Burstein, and I’m definitely going back to add her earlier books to my tbr. Not only does she write New Adult, but she also writes Young Adult, my favorite genre. This is a great New Adult novel for those looking for a unique, easy and humorous read.
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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September 20, 2014
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews.
From the lips of my hot man gif, my feelings on Again...
...because it was one of those reads that once you start, there is no parting yourself from it. I devoured it like a woman starved.
Kate Townsend's life is spiralling. After losing her job following the end of an affair with her married boss, she decides to rectify everything that started this downward spiral when she flunked out of college, by going back to college. Only to do so she needs to becomes nineteen again, ten years younger than she actually is. Raising your eyebrow over this? Trust me. Don't.
Carter Blackwood is desperate to finish college and leave behind the mistakes he made in his freshman year. Full of regret he's lonely, until a confident flighty young woman moves onto his floor and unleashes something buried deep within.
Everything changed the minute I realized she needed someone.... Making sure she was okay would be my first step toward redemption.
Everything about this novel worked for me, the storyline, the dual perspective, the character voices and the emotion. I fell in love with Kate and Carter and their transition from friends to lovers; his past has shaped a wonderful man wiser than his twenty-two years, yet her vulnerabilities brought an innocence to hers. (I need to point out not the virginal type, her experience and confidence made those interactions very sexy). Their journey was paced perfectly and brought fun, humour and an abundance of tender, heartwarming and heart aching moments. I would have liked a little more given to Carter revealing his past to Kate, but in the grand scheme of things that is minor and the surprise heading towards the finish line I couldn't have predicted.
I would read Again, again and again. It was that good. Lisa Burstein has a writing style that grabs you, doesn't let go until you've flicked the final page and this is a book I have no doubt many will fall in love with.
“I will always want the true you, and for you I will always be the true me.”
4.5 stars
Copy received from Wordsmith Publicity in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion
From the lips of my hot man gif, my feelings on Again...
...because it was one of those reads that once you start, there is no parting yourself from it. I devoured it like a woman starved.
Kate Townsend's life is spiralling. After losing her job following the end of an affair with her married boss, she decides to rectify everything that started this downward spiral when she flunked out of college, by going back to college. Only to do so she needs to becomes nineteen again, ten years younger than she actually is. Raising your eyebrow over this? Trust me. Don't.
Carter Blackwood is desperate to finish college and leave behind the mistakes he made in his freshman year. Full of regret he's lonely, until a confident flighty young woman moves onto his floor and unleashes something buried deep within.
Everything changed the minute I realized she needed someone.... Making sure she was okay would be my first step toward redemption.
Everything about this novel worked for me, the storyline, the dual perspective, the character voices and the emotion. I fell in love with Kate and Carter and their transition from friends to lovers; his past has shaped a wonderful man wiser than his twenty-two years, yet her vulnerabilities brought an innocence to hers. (I need to point out not the virginal type, her experience and confidence made those interactions very sexy). Their journey was paced perfectly and brought fun, humour and an abundance of tender, heartwarming and heart aching moments. I would have liked a little more given to Carter revealing his past to Kate, but in the grand scheme of things that is minor and the surprise heading towards the finish line I couldn't have predicted.
I would read Again, again and again. It was that good. Lisa Burstein has a writing style that grabs you, doesn't let go until you've flicked the final page and this is a book I have no doubt many will fall in love with.
“I will always want the true you, and for you I will always be the true me.”
4.5 stars
Copy received from Wordsmith Publicity in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion
November 14, 2015
3.5 stars
Even though I didn't find this story realistic at all, I still enjoyed it! I didn't like the MC, Kate very much, but I did really like Carter!
Even though I didn't find this story realistic at all, I still enjoyed it! I didn't like the MC, Kate very much, but I did really like Carter!
September 25, 2014
Review-Jo Rushton 4.5 Stars
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"Again" was a sweet and romantic story that had that feel good factor in abundance, leaving me with a big, cheesy grin on my face.
Getting closer to her thirtieth birthday Kate began to reevaluate her life and decided it was time for a re-do. Things had not gone to plan for her over the years and changes needed to made. She wanted a second chance and came up with a plan to return to college posing as a nineteen year old freshman. How difficult could it be to go back to college, get a degree and score a brilliant job? Kate's mission was to do all this whilst avoiding the usual student party lifestyle. No alcohol, no drugs and no men!!
I absolutely loved Kate and Carter. They were both such likable characters. When I read about Kate's life I totally understood her need for change but was pretending to be nineteen again a bit drastic? Maybe, but it sounded like a fun thing to do. However, living a lie was not that fun and I wondered how long she could keep up her new life without being discovered.
Carter was just adorable. I loved everything about him. When I first met him, it was clear that he was hiding something, something that consumed his life. As the story progressed and I learnt about the event that changed Carter's life, my heart went out to him. Here was a man who was wrecked with guilt. He was struggling to move on and live a normal life after everything that had happened to him. He needed help and he also needed some happiness in his life.
Kate and Carter were instantly attracted to each other and they got on like a house on fire. They had a spark but getting into a relationship was something that they both wanted to avoid. Despite this they were perfect for each other and they were happy together and it wasn't long before love blossomed between them. But what about their secrets? I found myself dreading the moment that everything came out in the wash because I didn't want their beautiful relationship to end.
As well as Kate and Carter's romance I also loved reading about Kate's return to college. I found myself becoming really interested in how she dealt with college life now she was ten years older than she was the first time around.
I am new to Lisa Burstein's work and I was truly impressed. I'm sure I will be reading more books from this author in the future.
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Blog: http://thehopelessromanticsbookblog.b...
"Again" was a sweet and romantic story that had that feel good factor in abundance, leaving me with a big, cheesy grin on my face.
Getting closer to her thirtieth birthday Kate began to reevaluate her life and decided it was time for a re-do. Things had not gone to plan for her over the years and changes needed to made. She wanted a second chance and came up with a plan to return to college posing as a nineteen year old freshman. How difficult could it be to go back to college, get a degree and score a brilliant job? Kate's mission was to do all this whilst avoiding the usual student party lifestyle. No alcohol, no drugs and no men!!
This was only choice. It was to start over where I fucked up and flunked out last time, or give up. I had giving up to look forward to once I hit forty. It was time to make college-take-two my bitch.Surely, now that Kate was older it would be easy for her to shun these temptations. Yeah right!!! This girl had a battle on her hands, especially when it came to the "no fraternizing with opposite sex" rule because on her first day of college she met Carter.
I absolutely loved Kate and Carter. They were both such likable characters. When I read about Kate's life I totally understood her need for change but was pretending to be nineteen again a bit drastic? Maybe, but it sounded like a fun thing to do. However, living a lie was not that fun and I wondered how long she could keep up her new life without being discovered.
While I was still lying to everyone else, lying to carter filled me with revulsion. He was too good to lie to.
Carter was just adorable. I loved everything about him. When I first met him, it was clear that he was hiding something, something that consumed his life. As the story progressed and I learnt about the event that changed Carter's life, my heart went out to him. Here was a man who was wrecked with guilt. He was struggling to move on and live a normal life after everything that had happened to him. He needed help and he also needed some happiness in his life.
Was three years of loneliness enough of a punishment to finally allow myself to touch someone like Kate?
Kate and Carter were instantly attracted to each other and they got on like a house on fire. They had a spark but getting into a relationship was something that they both wanted to avoid. Despite this they were perfect for each other and they were happy together and it wasn't long before love blossomed between them. But what about their secrets? I found myself dreading the moment that everything came out in the wash because I didn't want their beautiful relationship to end.
We were all we could hold onto in this whole world. I was strong enough to hold her and she seemed strong enough to hold me right back."Again" reminded me a little of the Drew Barrymore film, "Never Been Kissed". I found it was such an intriguing story and I quickly became absorbed and it remained that way throughout. The writing was good with a huge twist that I was not expecting and left me totally shocked! The book was written from both characters POV, making it easier for me to connect with each of them and allowing me the opportunity to know how both characters truly felt about each other.
We were entwined like vines, like roots, like the two of us were both halves of a wishbone that would never be broken, the wish already granted.
As well as Kate and Carter's romance I also loved reading about Kate's return to college. I found myself becoming really interested in how she dealt with college life now she was ten years older than she was the first time around.
I am new to Lisa Burstein's work and I was truly impressed. I'm sure I will be reading more books from this author in the future.
"Out of everyone on this campus, how did the two biggest liars find each other?""Again" gets 4.5 romantic hearts from me!
"Maybe because we're finally ready to start telling the truth."
December 31, 2014
Again was a very different kind of New Adult, and had a romance that I was very interested in! Kate just turned twenty-nine, but she's going back to college. She's not just going to night school or a community college. She's entering as a university freshman and saying she's nineteen. Her boss/boyfriend dumped and fired her for drunkenness, but instead of going to rehab, Kate decides to do something she thinks is more worthwhile. She's going to reinvent herself as a sober freshman and finally get her degree. Booze are boys are off the table, at least until she meets her resident adviser, Carter.
I loved how the whole older woman with a younger man played out! Carter was struggling with his attraction to Kate because he's a senior, and she's one of his freshman advisees. Meanwhile, Kate is reliving her youth, but also trying to use her life experience to be more mature. Of course, they both have secrets, which need to be discussed at some point. And I loved how those were handled as well! Kate and Carter were mature about it, came clean, talked, and realized that it doesn't affect how they feel for each other. I just wish there had been more sexy times! Like, the car scene not being cut short...
Again also deals with the serious issue of gang rape, in the context of pledging a fraternity. This is a huge issue! And I had recently read an article about one particularly horrible situation, so I was really interested in how the author would handled it. Carter was not the rapist, although that's what people around campus call him. It's what he's hiding from Kate, since he doesn't want her to judge him. However, Carter is the one judging himself, because he knows his involvement (or lack thereof as it were) was despicable. I liked that he owned up to his actions, and was doing his best to make it right. I especially liked the one scene of the girl involved, since she says some things to Carter that I found really powerful.
I also really liked how Again showed that maturity and age are not intricately linked. Kate is a mess despite being nearly thirty, and Carter actually seems like he has things together really well for being twenty-two. Kate is realizing that just because she's older, doesn't mean she's going to automatically make better decisions. She has to make a conscious effort to not fall into past cycles of destructive behavior in order to get to where she wants to be. And Carter is there to help her! He isn't trying to change her, but he's there to support her (in more ways than one!) in her efforts.
I just really liked Again. I loved this premise, although I was a bit worried in the beginning, since Kate's plan is ridiculous and there's no way it won't blow up in her face. It was handled in a way that I found realistic and satisfying without being a huge blow up. Lies are never the way to go!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
I loved how the whole older woman with a younger man played out! Carter was struggling with his attraction to Kate because he's a senior, and she's one of his freshman advisees. Meanwhile, Kate is reliving her youth, but also trying to use her life experience to be more mature. Of course, they both have secrets, which need to be discussed at some point. And I loved how those were handled as well! Kate and Carter were mature about it, came clean, talked, and realized that it doesn't affect how they feel for each other. I just wish there had been more sexy times! Like, the car scene not being cut short...
Again also deals with the serious issue of gang rape, in the context of pledging a fraternity. This is a huge issue! And I had recently read an article about one particularly horrible situation, so I was really interested in how the author would handled it. Carter was not the rapist, although that's what people around campus call him. It's what he's hiding from Kate, since he doesn't want her to judge him. However, Carter is the one judging himself, because he knows his involvement (or lack thereof as it were) was despicable. I liked that he owned up to his actions, and was doing his best to make it right. I especially liked the one scene of the girl involved, since she says some things to Carter that I found really powerful.
I also really liked how Again showed that maturity and age are not intricately linked. Kate is a mess despite being nearly thirty, and Carter actually seems like he has things together really well for being twenty-two. Kate is realizing that just because she's older, doesn't mean she's going to automatically make better decisions. She has to make a conscious effort to not fall into past cycles of destructive behavior in order to get to where she wants to be. And Carter is there to help her! He isn't trying to change her, but he's there to support her (in more ways than one!) in her efforts.
I just really liked Again. I loved this premise, although I was a bit worried in the beginning, since Kate's plan is ridiculous and there's no way it won't blow up in her face. It was handled in a way that I found realistic and satisfying without being a huge blow up. Lies are never the way to go!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
September 27, 2014
4.5 Stars
“How the hell did I think I’d ever pull this off? Pretend to be a nineteen-year-old freshman at twenty-nine years old?”
Kate’s hanging on by her last shred of hope. This is her second chance, her opportunity to turn her life around. Going back to school at 29 is hard. I would know because I’ve been doing it for the 2.5 years. Circumstances are different, of course, and I’m certainly not trying to conceal my real age, but I can kind of put myself in her shoes. So, I admire her for taking that plunge and finally focusing on her future. She just has to stay on track and not fall back into old habits. Not so easily done, especially when college is basically consists of parties, sex, and studying. Especially when she can’t get her mind off a certain RA.
“You never fully recovered from tragedy, from experiencing the worst of human nature.”
Carter is dealing with his own demons, his own past, his own mistakes. He’s spent the last three years punishing himself, thinking he wasn’t worthy of others’ affections. Certainly wasn’t worthy of Kate’s affections. Yet, he couldn’t help but want her, couldn’t leave her alone, no matter how hard he tried. I thought he was a great character. Yes, he made mistakes that weren’t very admirable, but he regretted them, repented for them, sought forgiveness for them. He became a good, honorable man because of his mistakes, and that’s what mistakes are for, to teach a lesson and shape you into a better person.
Kate and Carter were good for each other. They filled voids in each other that made the future look brighter. But the past keeps coming between them, the lies keep coming between them. I wanted to slap them both for continuing to hold on to their secrets. Can they forgive each other for their deceptions? Can they forgive themselves for their sins?
The theme of this book was different from others I have read, so kudos to the author for coming up with Kate’s unique situation. And, honestly, I liked that they were both bad guys in a way. It wasn’t a “one’s a sinner; one’s a saint” kind of premise. They both had their flaws and bad choices to make amends for. It was a great story, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I highly recommend it. Thank you, Ms. Burstein, for gifting me a copy of your book in exchange for an honest review. Because I honestly loved it.
“How the hell did I think I’d ever pull this off? Pretend to be a nineteen-year-old freshman at twenty-nine years old?”
Kate’s hanging on by her last shred of hope. This is her second chance, her opportunity to turn her life around. Going back to school at 29 is hard. I would know because I’ve been doing it for the 2.5 years. Circumstances are different, of course, and I’m certainly not trying to conceal my real age, but I can kind of put myself in her shoes. So, I admire her for taking that plunge and finally focusing on her future. She just has to stay on track and not fall back into old habits. Not so easily done, especially when college is basically consists of parties, sex, and studying. Especially when she can’t get her mind off a certain RA.
“You never fully recovered from tragedy, from experiencing the worst of human nature.”
Carter is dealing with his own demons, his own past, his own mistakes. He’s spent the last three years punishing himself, thinking he wasn’t worthy of others’ affections. Certainly wasn’t worthy of Kate’s affections. Yet, he couldn’t help but want her, couldn’t leave her alone, no matter how hard he tried. I thought he was a great character. Yes, he made mistakes that weren’t very admirable, but he regretted them, repented for them, sought forgiveness for them. He became a good, honorable man because of his mistakes, and that’s what mistakes are for, to teach a lesson and shape you into a better person.
Kate and Carter were good for each other. They filled voids in each other that made the future look brighter. But the past keeps coming between them, the lies keep coming between them. I wanted to slap them both for continuing to hold on to their secrets. Can they forgive each other for their deceptions? Can they forgive themselves for their sins?
The theme of this book was different from others I have read, so kudos to the author for coming up with Kate’s unique situation. And, honestly, I liked that they were both bad guys in a way. It wasn’t a “one’s a sinner; one’s a saint” kind of premise. They both had their flaws and bad choices to make amends for. It was a great story, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I highly recommend it. Thank you, Ms. Burstein, for gifting me a copy of your book in exchange for an honest review. Because I honestly loved it.
September 1, 2016
Entertaining. Cute. Nothing spectacular, but a bit fun.
Couldn't shake the feeling that her adventure was oh.so.illegal but what the heck, let's go for a ride.
Also, I am not one for unnecessary drama, but the revealing was so.. hmm.. well, it was just there. And I don't know why they were so afraid to tell the truth to each other after all.
2.5 stars
Pre-reading thoughts:
I am not sure if this is my kind of book, but I like the idea. In fact I think that I might even be able to go back to high-school (take that Kate!) and no one would notice the age difference, LOL.
Should I test my theory? :)))
Couldn't shake the feeling that her adventure was oh.so.illegal but what the heck, let's go for a ride.
Also, I am not one for unnecessary drama, but the revealing was so.. hmm.. well, it was just there. And I don't know why they were so afraid to tell the truth to each other after all.
2.5 stars
Pre-reading thoughts:
I am not sure if this is my kind of book, but I like the idea. In fact I think that I might even be able to go back to high-school (take that Kate!) and no one would notice the age difference, LOL.
Should I test my theory? :)))
August 30, 2014
Lisa does it again. As always! <3
September 25, 2014
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
The premise of Again sounded different and intrigued me and I have had such good luck with Lisa's books in the past, especially her new adult books. So I knew I couldn't pass up on Again. And I am so glad that I did. Even though the premise was unlike most new adult books that I have read, the plot tended to be a little bit predictable but it worked really well for this story. I enjoyed getting wrapped up in the story of Kate and Carter. And I also really liked that this was a complete standalone story. Not a standalone as a part of a series, but a true standalone. Everything was neatly wrapped up in the end, and while I would love to play in the world of these two some more, there is something satisfying about everything being so nicely wrapped up. (I don't even know if that made any sense. Summary- Sometimes I just like a standalone.)
Kate and Carter have each made some pretty big mistakes in their lives. And they were both looking for a second chance to try and be a different person. Kate through reinventing herself as a college freshman when she was really 29 and Carter by trying to hide his past from the new girl. I have no idea how Kate managed to pull of 19. I mean that is probably the craziest part of the story. I want to know her secret, especially since she was practically an alcoholic. That ages a body, but she must have one heck of a moisturizer to seem that youthful. (ok, age rant over.)
I admired Kate's determination to make something more of herself. I thought it was telling of how strong of a person she was that she went to these lengths to go after what she wanted. I can't even imagine the Kate that I got to know in Again sleeping with a married man. She grew so much. And Carter! Carter is just the biggest teddy bear. He wants to take care of everyone. It breaks my heart that he was painted to be such a bad guy. He is the opposite. This guy has the biggest heart. I just wanted to hug him. All the time.
Lisa worked her magic again in Again. I love watching her develop character chemistry and romance. Her books are so fluid. They make you want to keep turning pages until you get to the end and find yourself wishing for more pages. The story was great. I did see the "twist" coming a little ways off, but it didn't ruin anything for me. I still had that OMG moment, and I was still so happy about Kate and Carter's story. You will want to read Again, Again and Again.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
The premise of Again sounded different and intrigued me and I have had such good luck with Lisa's books in the past, especially her new adult books. So I knew I couldn't pass up on Again. And I am so glad that I did. Even though the premise was unlike most new adult books that I have read, the plot tended to be a little bit predictable but it worked really well for this story. I enjoyed getting wrapped up in the story of Kate and Carter. And I also really liked that this was a complete standalone story. Not a standalone as a part of a series, but a true standalone. Everything was neatly wrapped up in the end, and while I would love to play in the world of these two some more, there is something satisfying about everything being so nicely wrapped up. (I don't even know if that made any sense. Summary- Sometimes I just like a standalone.)
Kate and Carter have each made some pretty big mistakes in their lives. And they were both looking for a second chance to try and be a different person. Kate through reinventing herself as a college freshman when she was really 29 and Carter by trying to hide his past from the new girl. I have no idea how Kate managed to pull of 19. I mean that is probably the craziest part of the story. I want to know her secret, especially since she was practically an alcoholic. That ages a body, but she must have one heck of a moisturizer to seem that youthful. (ok, age rant over.)
I admired Kate's determination to make something more of herself. I thought it was telling of how strong of a person she was that she went to these lengths to go after what she wanted. I can't even imagine the Kate that I got to know in Again sleeping with a married man. She grew so much. And Carter! Carter is just the biggest teddy bear. He wants to take care of everyone. It breaks my heart that he was painted to be such a bad guy. He is the opposite. This guy has the biggest heart. I just wanted to hug him. All the time.
Lisa worked her magic again in Again. I love watching her develop character chemistry and romance. Her books are so fluid. They make you want to keep turning pages until you get to the end and find yourself wishing for more pages. The story was great. I did see the "twist" coming a little ways off, but it didn't ruin anything for me. I still had that OMG moment, and I was still so happy about Kate and Carter's story. You will want to read Again, Again and Again.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
November 7, 2015
When I first read the synopsis of Again, I was excited that it was a story about second chances (those are some of my favorites) and I wanted to see how Kate was going to pull off the charade of being a nineteen year old college freshman when she was twenty-nine. Just throw on some tights and boots and she will fit right in! Aside from her young appearance, she doesn't act like a twenty-nine year old would (or should?), and there were many times that I forgot she was supposed to be twenty-nine, so she convinced me!
What I love so much about Again are the characters. Each one is unique and interesting in their own way. While the main story is about Kate and Carter, their friends and roommates, Dawn, Tristan, and Veronica, have their own stories and we get to know them on more that just a surface level. Given that Again is not a long novel (only 252 pages), to be able to have such well developed supporting characters is a testament to the author's writing.
Another thing I love about Again is how the characters are realistically vulnerable. They make decisions that aren't always for the best. Kate and Carter are not just flawed, they are real. They have hang-ups, doubts, and moments (or years) of self-loathing, but they also have moments of self-awareness and are forgiving of themselves and others. More than anything though, Kate and Carter, through all their ups and downs, let readers understand and accept that we are all just works in progress.
Again addresses a topic that I've yet to encounter in many books and that is the passive bystander. Carter is witness to the moments leading up to an assault and instead of trying to stop it from happening, he walks away. I wouldn't go as far as saying that this is an "issue book" but it does open up the lines for a much needed dialogue.
Whether readers are just now discovering Lisa Burstein through her self-published debut or they are devoted fans who seek out her books (like I do), Again will leave them begging for more. I loved it so much, it's a book I want all of my friends to read. I've already purchased and gifted copies to five of them (and convinced a few others to read it too)!
What I love so much about Again are the characters. Each one is unique and interesting in their own way. While the main story is about Kate and Carter, their friends and roommates, Dawn, Tristan, and Veronica, have their own stories and we get to know them on more that just a surface level. Given that Again is not a long novel (only 252 pages), to be able to have such well developed supporting characters is a testament to the author's writing.
Another thing I love about Again is how the characters are realistically vulnerable. They make decisions that aren't always for the best. Kate and Carter are not just flawed, they are real. They have hang-ups, doubts, and moments (or years) of self-loathing, but they also have moments of self-awareness and are forgiving of themselves and others. More than anything though, Kate and Carter, through all their ups and downs, let readers understand and accept that we are all just works in progress.
Again addresses a topic that I've yet to encounter in many books and that is the passive bystander. Carter is witness to the moments leading up to an assault and instead of trying to stop it from happening, he walks away. I wouldn't go as far as saying that this is an "issue book" but it does open up the lines for a much needed dialogue.
Whether readers are just now discovering Lisa Burstein through her self-published debut or they are devoted fans who seek out her books (like I do), Again will leave them begging for more. I loved it so much, it's a book I want all of my friends to read. I've already purchased and gifted copies to five of them (and convinced a few others to read it too)!
September 30, 2014
A fun yet poignant read. A perfect book to lose yourself in for an evening. 4 Stars. Full review to follow.
Edit. ‘Again’ is a wonderfully original story within the contemporary romance genre, which I know will resonate with a lot of people. Lisa Burstein beautifully addresses that burning question that many adults feel, ‘what if I had the chance to go back?’
From the get go, I sympathised with Kate and really admired her resolve to go back to University and make a change for herself, even if revenge isn’t the best motive to drive you. To see how desperate some people are for a second chance really resonates with me, and most especially highlighted the message that it is never too late to change your life path.
I love stories that have such strong messages running through them and in ‘Again’ Lisa Burstein did this perfectly.
Carter was an amazing character who was searching and atoning for his own second chance, and my heart broke for the pain he was going through and the guilt he carried for something that wasn’t primarily his guilt to bare. He was the perfect hero for this story, as we see him help and guide Kate in finding her own path whilst she in turn encourages him to move on from his painful sat and build a life that he can be proud of. The give and take on their relationship was lovely to read.
The only thing that keeps me from giving this book 5 stars is probably something that will only be an issue for me coming from my time as a psychology graduate. I’d have liked to have seen some more psychological intervention or motive for Kate’s alcoholism, and a more emotional response from her in the shadow of having fallen off the wagon and breaking the promise she has made herself.
The scenes where she was drinking I felt could have been highlighted a little more and shown to have a bigger impact on her recovery than
They did.
Nevertheless this was a superb, clever and funny book that I will know will be a hit amongst fans of the New Adult Contemporary genre.
Edit. ‘Again’ is a wonderfully original story within the contemporary romance genre, which I know will resonate with a lot of people. Lisa Burstein beautifully addresses that burning question that many adults feel, ‘what if I had the chance to go back?’
From the get go, I sympathised with Kate and really admired her resolve to go back to University and make a change for herself, even if revenge isn’t the best motive to drive you. To see how desperate some people are for a second chance really resonates with me, and most especially highlighted the message that it is never too late to change your life path.
I love stories that have such strong messages running through them and in ‘Again’ Lisa Burstein did this perfectly.
Carter was an amazing character who was searching and atoning for his own second chance, and my heart broke for the pain he was going through and the guilt he carried for something that wasn’t primarily his guilt to bare. He was the perfect hero for this story, as we see him help and guide Kate in finding her own path whilst she in turn encourages him to move on from his painful sat and build a life that he can be proud of. The give and take on their relationship was lovely to read.
The only thing that keeps me from giving this book 5 stars is probably something that will only be an issue for me coming from my time as a psychology graduate. I’d have liked to have seen some more psychological intervention or motive for Kate’s alcoholism, and a more emotional response from her in the shadow of having fallen off the wagon and breaking the promise she has made herself.
The scenes where she was drinking I felt could have been highlighted a little more and shown to have a bigger impact on her recovery than
They did.
Nevertheless this was a superb, clever and funny book that I will know will be a hit amongst fans of the New Adult Contemporary genre.
October 3, 2014
Kate and Carter both have secrets and regrets from their past. Can they move on and try and make new lives for themselves? Will they move on together? Or will their lies catch up to them and ruin not only the future they are both trying to reach but their relationship as well?
“Going back to college might not have been one of my best ideas- but it was the only one that might finally change my life. I wanted to change my life. I needed to.”
This was a short, entertaining and easy read with characters I found likeable and a slightly different story line to others I have read before.
Kate could have been a character I hated considering her past and I thought at first she might be a bit ‘poor me’ and not take responsibility for her actions but that wasn’t the case at all. She was very honest and truly was just trying to make a better life and improve herself. She was witty, kind and had courage.
“I never wanted to forget the night I discovered I was a coward.”
I loved Carter! I thought he was the sweetest guy. Someone who had made a mistake but had been living with it ever since, more so that what he deserved but he felt such guilt and was trying everything to make things right. He was adorable with Kate and how protective he was even though he was young.
“He understood, truly understood loneliness. It was something I fought against.”
The plot was different with it being an older female lead instead of a male lead and the story line each of the characters had was quite unique I think. There was a little of everything, some drama, love, passion, arguments and tension. I knew the lies would catch up to them but I had no idea what would happen when they did or who would be effected. I definitely didn’t see the connection between the characters that was revealed and I always liked being surprised.
An enjoyable read from an author who’s work I haven’t read before but after this I look forward to discovering more of her work.
Bethany
“Going back to college might not have been one of my best ideas- but it was the only one that might finally change my life. I wanted to change my life. I needed to.”
This was a short, entertaining and easy read with characters I found likeable and a slightly different story line to others I have read before.
Kate could have been a character I hated considering her past and I thought at first she might be a bit ‘poor me’ and not take responsibility for her actions but that wasn’t the case at all. She was very honest and truly was just trying to make a better life and improve herself. She was witty, kind and had courage.
“I never wanted to forget the night I discovered I was a coward.”
I loved Carter! I thought he was the sweetest guy. Someone who had made a mistake but had been living with it ever since, more so that what he deserved but he felt such guilt and was trying everything to make things right. He was adorable with Kate and how protective he was even though he was young.
“He understood, truly understood loneliness. It was something I fought against.”
The plot was different with it being an older female lead instead of a male lead and the story line each of the characters had was quite unique I think. There was a little of everything, some drama, love, passion, arguments and tension. I knew the lies would catch up to them but I had no idea what would happen when they did or who would be effected. I definitely didn’t see the connection between the characters that was revealed and I always liked being surprised.
An enjoyable read from an author who’s work I haven’t read before but after this I look forward to discovering more of her work.
Bethany
September 28, 2014
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review!
In Again MC Kate has made a bit of a huge mess of things and wants a do-over. Her plan is to become a teenager again to get the degree she didn't complete the first time round. Again has a kinda of Never Been Kissed vibe but with an interesting twist and a New Adult upgrade. I've always wondered what it would be like to go back to Uni and do it all over again. But as young as I look, I'm not sure I'd ever have the gumption to attempt what Kate does (I ended up doing an MA as a *cringe* mature student* so it wasn't quite the same).
I really enjoyed the story and Kate's antics had me in hysterics. The scenes where she considered how Uni freshers dress or when she commented on the weather made me laugh because it's exactly what I do. Lisa Burstein really nailed the age difference here.
Kate has more than her fair share of problems and it was nice to see her trying to fix things (just not necessarily in the right way). Every time she'd be tempted by certain things, I was desperate for her to resist and learn from the past. I wanted her to succeed and to be happy.
On to Carter. He reminded me a bit of the MC from Almost and I really liked him. It was sad to see how little he thought of himself and I loved how sweet he was *swoon*!
I had my suspicions concerning the twist fairly early on and I was pleased to see it all unfold. I would have liked to know what happened next with certain characters. I really enjoyed Again and loved the MC's. I wanted Kate to fix certain things for herself and would enjoy reading a spin-off with the secondary characters.
4 Stars in my Sky!
Also reviewed on my blog Zili in the Sky
October 2, 2014
Lisa Burstein has done a great job with this book.
Kate is a really likeable character facing not only the troubles of staying sober, she has to do so in college where alcohol is everywhere. Lost and with no idea where to go after losing her job, Kate decides the best thing would be finally getting her degree and staying sober but she doesn't want to be the old lady in freshman year! So the only thing to do is take advantage of her young looks (lucky lady) and pretend to be 19.
Her journey through college take 2 is very interesting. She meets people who tempt her to go back to her wild ways, a girl who is pretending as much as she is and who might be the only thing keeping her sane and Carter. Carter who wants to protect her and then just wants her.
Carter's chapters were a very good addition to the book, he's just so scared and ashamed for what happened. In many ways he's the one who can't let go of the past, the one who can't forgive himself and that is as much a problem as Kate's secret.
I think the story was easy to relate and believeable in many ways as well. The emotions and fears felt real and Lisa is great at keeping humor, sexual tension and drama balanced through all the book. While there isn't really a mistery aspect, because it switches POVs, you really want to know how it ends and how both of them overcome their demons.
I laughed a lot while reading this, I kept cheering on Kate in her journey. she made a few very bad choices in the way, and I felt like the friend who sees someone do a bad choice and can't do anything to stop them but that it will lesson later on.
And in the end, my heart was one happy warm little place.
Kate is a really likeable character facing not only the troubles of staying sober, she has to do so in college where alcohol is everywhere. Lost and with no idea where to go after losing her job, Kate decides the best thing would be finally getting her degree and staying sober but she doesn't want to be the old lady in freshman year! So the only thing to do is take advantage of her young looks (lucky lady) and pretend to be 19.
Her journey through college take 2 is very interesting. She meets people who tempt her to go back to her wild ways, a girl who is pretending as much as she is and who might be the only thing keeping her sane and Carter. Carter who wants to protect her and then just wants her.
Carter's chapters were a very good addition to the book, he's just so scared and ashamed for what happened. In many ways he's the one who can't let go of the past, the one who can't forgive himself and that is as much a problem as Kate's secret.
I think the story was easy to relate and believeable in many ways as well. The emotions and fears felt real and Lisa is great at keeping humor, sexual tension and drama balanced through all the book. While there isn't really a mistery aspect, because it switches POVs, you really want to know how it ends and how both of them overcome their demons.
I laughed a lot while reading this, I kept cheering on Kate in her journey. she made a few very bad choices in the way, and I felt like the friend who sees someone do a bad choice and can't do anything to stop them but that it will lesson later on.
And in the end, my heart was one happy warm little place.
October 5, 2014
Again was my first Lisa Burstein but it will not be my last! The synopsis of Again caught my eye immediately; if I'm being honest, the idea Kate concocts is one I've thought about doing a time or two. How many of us wish we could have a re-do and wonder if we could we pull it off if we tried. Kate grabbed me from chapter one, she was a bit of a hot mess, she made me laugh, and I found her endearing. I told my best friend about this one and said "you've got to read this book, the main chick is hilarious and I've got see if she pulls this off." After telling her the synopsis and a little more about Kate, she one-clicked herself. My dear Carter is also a bit of a mess, his actions from his freshman year still plague him and leave him feeling guilty so naturally, these two secret keepers hit it off! It was fun seeing them try to avoid taking things further than friendship knowing the secrets they were hiding from one another, plus he was her RA. At one point I thought I figured out the twist but was wrong...until I kept reading and then realized *gasp* "that's who so and so is!" *insert shocked face* I couldn't wait to see what happened once all the secrets came out! I really liked Again. The writing was fun and I enjoyed the humor along with a story line I hadn't read before!
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for a review and also purchased my own copy from Amazon
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for a review and also purchased my own copy from Amazon
September 20, 2014
How far would go to wipe the slate clean??? Kate goes farther then I think anyone ever would. In Again, Kate is heading back to college 11 years after dropping out. She meets the yummy Carter, who is harboring his own secret past. I loved this book! Lisa Burinstein does a great job blending the story from both sides, and talking about alcohol abuse. I loved Carter and Kates relationship. Carter was intelligent and sweet and caring, and once I got over how OBSESSED Kate was with turning thirty, I really fell for these characters. 5 stars!
December 28, 2014
I really loved this book from the beginning to the very end. Have you ever had a moment in your life that you wish you could go back and start all over and change things that happened to you. But sometimes if you think about going back and changing things would you be where you are today. I can admit that I went through a lot of things that I am not really proud of the things that I done. But always tell people what happened in my past made me the person I am today.
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September 30, 2014
If I could give more than 5 stars, I would! Lisa did it Again! She has such a way of giving her characters life. You can see yourself in her stories, hanging with the characters.
Love, Love, Love this story...Lisa has this way of keeping you totally involved in her stories, not wanting to put it down until you know what happens next.
Again I will say this (like ALL Lisa's books) is so worth the read!
Love, Love, Love this story...Lisa has this way of keeping you totally involved in her stories, not wanting to put it down until you know what happens next.
Again I will say this (like ALL Lisa's books) is so worth the read!
September 27, 2014
I loved it! I want Santa to bring me Carter, please and thank you!
October 1, 2014
Very unexpected but such a good read. Second chance at life, who doesn't think about that sometimes- if only -
October 23, 2014
I seriously enjoyed my time spent with these characters, and living in their world. It’s like the stereotypical New Adult romance novel, with a spin on it. It has the anticipation, the romance, and the angst. There’s no shortage of what we’ve all come to know and love from this genre. But Burstein took it a step further with the storyline, and it makes the entire experience stand out. I’ll just mention a few things I really loved.
Like I mentioned above, it’s not your same ole same ole. We’re used to our heroines having a rough past to overcome. We all know that story. What about a heroine that tries to rewrite it? There’s an idea, and it turned out perfectly. I LOVE that it’s so different. It’s unique, and will be a memorable tale for me because of that. Basically, without explaining too much, Kate is a drunk, sleeping with her married boss, and just an all-around mess. Her life wasn’t on track quite how she wanted, once she took a step back and looked. So she tries it again. How many of us have at least one or two moments that we wish we could go back and get a redo? Well that’s what Kate does. She’s 29, but goes back to college and claims she’s 19. She’s determined to do things right this time around, after flunking out the first time around. I just loved the entire premise of this book, and it didn’t disappoint after having finished.
I love that it’s not necessarily instalove. It’s instaconnection. Kate and Carter just “get” each other. Carter also has a past that he’s trying to overcome, but feels stuck. To see how they help one another face their pasts and look to the future was beautiful. They each make the other open their eyes to who they truly are, and it gave me the tummy flutters in nearly every scene they were in together. It’s sexy, it’s romantic, but it’s also got some tough moments that they have to work through together. It’s full of lies of omission and hidden secrets, but you can just tell that these two characters will be okay. You hope anyway, because they sure do fit together. Their connection jumps off of the page.
I thought the pacing was just right, and the writing was fantastic. It makes you feel all of those emotions Burstein intended for you to feel. Hopeful and saddened. Protective and loyal. Anxious and completely in love. It runs the gamut, and I love that Burstein can do that. She doesn’t have to add a ton of side characters or different storylines. It’s Kate and her chance at starting over. It’s Carter and his quest to forgive himself. It’s so simple, yet so intriguing. Burstein did a great job, and I’m officially a fan.
Overall, I really enjoyed Again. It was such an easy read, and you’ll find yourself completely swept away in their world. You’ll be rooting for Kate to figure out her life, and you’ll hope she can do that with Carter. It gripped me from the first page and didn’t let go. It’s the perfect heartwarming tale of not overcoming your past, but completely rewriting it and discovering yourself in the process. I highly suggest this one. Ooh and this quote sums it all up pretty much perfectly -
“Out of everyone on this campus, how did the two biggest liars find each other?” she asked.
I brushed a stray hair away from her forehead, “Maybe because we’re finally ready to start telling the truth.”
Love. Go give Again a try. I’m betting you won’t be disappointed.
Like I mentioned above, it’s not your same ole same ole. We’re used to our heroines having a rough past to overcome. We all know that story. What about a heroine that tries to rewrite it? There’s an idea, and it turned out perfectly. I LOVE that it’s so different. It’s unique, and will be a memorable tale for me because of that. Basically, without explaining too much, Kate is a drunk, sleeping with her married boss, and just an all-around mess. Her life wasn’t on track quite how she wanted, once she took a step back and looked. So she tries it again. How many of us have at least one or two moments that we wish we could go back and get a redo? Well that’s what Kate does. She’s 29, but goes back to college and claims she’s 19. She’s determined to do things right this time around, after flunking out the first time around. I just loved the entire premise of this book, and it didn’t disappoint after having finished.
I love that it’s not necessarily instalove. It’s instaconnection. Kate and Carter just “get” each other. Carter also has a past that he’s trying to overcome, but feels stuck. To see how they help one another face their pasts and look to the future was beautiful. They each make the other open their eyes to who they truly are, and it gave me the tummy flutters in nearly every scene they were in together. It’s sexy, it’s romantic, but it’s also got some tough moments that they have to work through together. It’s full of lies of omission and hidden secrets, but you can just tell that these two characters will be okay. You hope anyway, because they sure do fit together. Their connection jumps off of the page.
I thought the pacing was just right, and the writing was fantastic. It makes you feel all of those emotions Burstein intended for you to feel. Hopeful and saddened. Protective and loyal. Anxious and completely in love. It runs the gamut, and I love that Burstein can do that. She doesn’t have to add a ton of side characters or different storylines. It’s Kate and her chance at starting over. It’s Carter and his quest to forgive himself. It’s so simple, yet so intriguing. Burstein did a great job, and I’m officially a fan.
Overall, I really enjoyed Again. It was such an easy read, and you’ll find yourself completely swept away in their world. You’ll be rooting for Kate to figure out her life, and you’ll hope she can do that with Carter. It gripped me from the first page and didn’t let go. It’s the perfect heartwarming tale of not overcoming your past, but completely rewriting it and discovering yourself in the process. I highly suggest this one. Ooh and this quote sums it all up pretty much perfectly -
“Out of everyone on this campus, how did the two biggest liars find each other?” she asked.
I brushed a stray hair away from her forehead, “Maybe because we’re finally ready to start telling the truth.”
Love. Go give Again a try. I’m betting you won’t be disappointed.
September 30, 2014
Reviewed on my blog,Becky on Books.
Again requires a pretty big leap of faith--can someone in this age of modern technology, where all of our records are computerized and your social security number is your ID, really falsify documentation and be accepted into college as herself, but ten years younger? (A computer hacker? Probably. But Kate isn't. At. All.)
So it helps not to think too long and hard on the plausibility of that part. Just accept it, and read on to immerse yourself in the story.
As for me, I went back and forth. There were aspects of the story that I really enjoyed--both Carter and Kate are likable characters, as are Tristan (Carter's best friend) and Dawn (Kate's roomie) and it was easy to root for them. I loved the fact that Carter volunteered at an SPCA--cute detail. Kate and Carter's "meet cute" was adorable. Carter's "rescue" of Kate from the frat house was fantastic. I liked the idea of starting over, and that Kate was taking charge of her life after hitting rock bottom.
What didn't make a whole lot of sense to me, though, is how she choose to go about it. Okay, yes, start over. Going back to and finishing college is a fantastic idea, definitely. But how could someone with an alcohol dependency problem really think that immersing herself into the whole "college scene", living on campus and all, is a good idea? Temptation is going to be everywhere! I spent a lot of the book shaking my head at her choices, not understanding why she didn't just go back to school as her true self--student loans, grants, financial aid--I'm sure she could have figured out financing once her grandmother's money ran out. She could finish her degree, go on to law school as planned, get a counselor to help with her addiction problems--starting over, but without the same degree of temptation.
Also without Carter, though. Which would have been a definite shame, so...
I kept reading, even through the head-shaking times.
Everything ends well, fortunately, and the aspects that I had the biggest issues with were resolved. I still liked the characters and wanted the best for them, so win-win. People grew and changed and the all lying came to an end, and I was ultimately happy even though Kate does get out of it all just a teensy bit too easily. (Though that could be my Carter bias showing. Did I mention he volunteers at the SPCA? ;)) All in all, it was an enjoyable, though problematic at times, read.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / B
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Again requires a pretty big leap of faith--can someone in this age of modern technology, where all of our records are computerized and your social security number is your ID, really falsify documentation and be accepted into college as herself, but ten years younger? (A computer hacker? Probably. But Kate isn't. At. All.)
So it helps not to think too long and hard on the plausibility of that part. Just accept it, and read on to immerse yourself in the story.
As for me, I went back and forth. There were aspects of the story that I really enjoyed--both Carter and Kate are likable characters, as are Tristan (Carter's best friend) and Dawn (Kate's roomie) and it was easy to root for them. I loved the fact that Carter volunteered at an SPCA--cute detail. Kate and Carter's "meet cute" was adorable. Carter's "rescue" of Kate from the frat house was fantastic. I liked the idea of starting over, and that Kate was taking charge of her life after hitting rock bottom.
What didn't make a whole lot of sense to me, though, is how she choose to go about it. Okay, yes, start over. Going back to and finishing college is a fantastic idea, definitely. But how could someone with an alcohol dependency problem really think that immersing herself into the whole "college scene", living on campus and all, is a good idea? Temptation is going to be everywhere! I spent a lot of the book shaking my head at her choices, not understanding why she didn't just go back to school as her true self--student loans, grants, financial aid--I'm sure she could have figured out financing once her grandmother's money ran out. She could finish her degree, go on to law school as planned, get a counselor to help with her addiction problems--starting over, but without the same degree of temptation.
Also without Carter, though. Which would have been a definite shame, so...
I kept reading, even through the head-shaking times.
Everything ends well, fortunately, and the aspects that I had the biggest issues with were resolved. I still liked the characters and wanted the best for them, so win-win. People grew and changed and the all lying came to an end, and I was ultimately happy even though Kate does get out of it all just a teensy bit too easily. (Though that could be my Carter bias showing. Did I mention he volunteers at the SPCA? ;)) All in all, it was an enjoyable, though problematic at times, read.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / B
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2014
I reviewed this at MustReadBooksOrDie with my friend Shelley!
Shel: A 29 year old trying to re-do college as a 19 year old?!! I was intrigued. I mean..what tha hell? Why not just be a 29 year old? Wellll, very early on you get an explanation and as the novel continues more is revealed. We have Kate (our 29 year old) and Carter (our 22 year old) meeting on the first page and while the sparks fly...their reticence to do anything about it is very evident. Court: Yes! I was very intrigued by that whole part of the story. She clearly has reached a level of desperation to come up with this plan, but I immediately had to give her props for doing whatever it took to better herself. Get it, girl!
Shel: You know what else? These were two broken people. And while Carter seemed to have it more together but he was just hiding from the truth of what he did or didn't do. Meanwhile Kate was a mess but trying so hard to fight her way out of her rut of poor choices and poor decision making and bumbling it through it sometimes. Somehow though, when they were together, they made each other better. I agree. Court: I had some reservations at first, because Kate is such a mess and her entire college idea is kind of insane. Carter, however, has just as much baggage as her. As they get to know each other, I thought to myself that their friendship might be a dynamic of the story as well, and that is a always a fan favorite for me.
Shel: In some ways they both made me want to shake them because they were so frustrating; in other ways I admired their willingness to try to do better for themselves. As with many novels in this genre, it took some hard truths and hurt feelings before they were ready to make a go of it. Court: Boo, to that. The hurt feelings and hard truths. They're very real, and they suck...so poor characters. Nice journey to get it all figured out though.
Shel: This is a short read--a 150ish pages. If you're looking for something you can finish and not have to wait for the next one to come out, this may just be the perfect book for you. Court: Totally. There were a few struggles for me early on with the repetitiveness of some of the things that Kate says. A lot. So, that was a hhmmmm, moment for me, but all in all, the characters are engaging and make you want to take the ride with them.
Shelley: 3 stars
Courtney: 3 stars
Shel: A 29 year old trying to re-do college as a 19 year old?!! I was intrigued. I mean..what tha hell? Why not just be a 29 year old? Wellll, very early on you get an explanation and as the novel continues more is revealed. We have Kate (our 29 year old) and Carter (our 22 year old) meeting on the first page and while the sparks fly...their reticence to do anything about it is very evident. Court: Yes! I was very intrigued by that whole part of the story. She clearly has reached a level of desperation to come up with this plan, but I immediately had to give her props for doing whatever it took to better herself. Get it, girl!
Shel: You know what else? These were two broken people. And while Carter seemed to have it more together but he was just hiding from the truth of what he did or didn't do. Meanwhile Kate was a mess but trying so hard to fight her way out of her rut of poor choices and poor decision making and bumbling it through it sometimes. Somehow though, when they were together, they made each other better. I agree. Court: I had some reservations at first, because Kate is such a mess and her entire college idea is kind of insane. Carter, however, has just as much baggage as her. As they get to know each other, I thought to myself that their friendship might be a dynamic of the story as well, and that is a always a fan favorite for me.
Shel: In some ways they both made me want to shake them because they were so frustrating; in other ways I admired their willingness to try to do better for themselves. As with many novels in this genre, it took some hard truths and hurt feelings before they were ready to make a go of it. Court: Boo, to that. The hurt feelings and hard truths. They're very real, and they suck...so poor characters. Nice journey to get it all figured out though.
Shel: This is a short read--a 150ish pages. If you're looking for something you can finish and not have to wait for the next one to come out, this may just be the perfect book for you. Court: Totally. There were a few struggles for me early on with the repetitiveness of some of the things that Kate says. A lot. So, that was a hhmmmm, moment for me, but all in all, the characters are engaging and make you want to take the ride with them.
Shelley: 3 stars
Courtney: 3 stars
September 26, 2014
AGAIN had an interested premise and one that I thought I would really, really enjoy. But as I read the story, I had to wonder is going back to "redo" college the way Kate did really the way to change the course your life is taking.
Kate is a hard character to like. She relies on alcohol WAY too much, her best friend drinks just like Kate and her boyfriend is actually her married boss. So after losing her boyfriend and her job in the same day, Kate decides going back to college to try and "redo" where she thinks her life went wrong is the way to go. For most people I would applaud them for trying to change, but Kate does it in a bit of a creepy way. She's 29, pretending to be 19 and living in a freshman dorm. Really?
For a woman who knows she has an issue with alcohol, the last place she needed to be was living on a college campus, in the dorms, where partying and availability of alcohol was probably going to be an issue. Then there is the issue of a very adult Kate drinking with minors. You thought you're life was hell now, imagine what would have happened if a party she was at got busted by the cops. YIKES!
Then there was her relationship with RA Carter. Yes, he's 22, and legal enough for Kate to be with, but it felt weird. Yes, Carter was trying to rebuild his life after a horrible error in judgement when he was a freshman. Yes, he could sympathize with Kate for wanting to start over and forget the past. But I just couldn't get with their relationship. He seemed like the adult and she the child. He was saddling himself with a woman who really couldn't help herself. It just felt like too much for him to deal with.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and the unique voice she gave to this New Adult book. But unfortunately, this was a story I couldn't connect with and a heroine I didn't really want with the hero.
Kate is a hard character to like. She relies on alcohol WAY too much, her best friend drinks just like Kate and her boyfriend is actually her married boss. So after losing her boyfriend and her job in the same day, Kate decides going back to college to try and "redo" where she thinks her life went wrong is the way to go. For most people I would applaud them for trying to change, but Kate does it in a bit of a creepy way. She's 29, pretending to be 19 and living in a freshman dorm. Really?
For a woman who knows she has an issue with alcohol, the last place she needed to be was living on a college campus, in the dorms, where partying and availability of alcohol was probably going to be an issue. Then there is the issue of a very adult Kate drinking with minors. You thought you're life was hell now, imagine what would have happened if a party she was at got busted by the cops. YIKES!
Then there was her relationship with RA Carter. Yes, he's 22, and legal enough for Kate to be with, but it felt weird. Yes, Carter was trying to rebuild his life after a horrible error in judgement when he was a freshman. Yes, he could sympathize with Kate for wanting to start over and forget the past. But I just couldn't get with their relationship. He seemed like the adult and she the child. He was saddling himself with a woman who really couldn't help herself. It just felt like too much for him to deal with.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and the unique voice she gave to this New Adult book. But unfortunately, this was a story I couldn't connect with and a heroine I didn't really want with the hero.
October 5, 2014
***Obsessed by Books arc given in exchange for an honest review***
What if you had the chance to do it all again...would you do things differently?
Kate decides to start again by returning to college, posing as ten years younger student, as she wants a do over. She has walked away from a total car crash of her life events and decided to have a clean slate. Her motivation may at first nig seemike the best reason but her attempt to start fresh, grab a second chance and reinvent herself was uplifting.
Carter is a lovely character, well written and slightly damaged by past events that he carries the weight of. His guilt has shaped him into a very mature and responsible college student. He keeps himself distant as a punishment for what he sees as his failings and this is the story of how helping someone else can set you free.
"Everything changed the minute I realized she needed someone ...Making sure she was okay would be my first step towards redemption."
This is a well written, emotive story that will have you laughing and crying right along side the characters. Dealing with real life issues such as addiction and sexual assault I felt it was a very real to life scenerio that had shaped the characters which made it so much easier to identify with them and like them. Written from both Kate's and Carter's pov we get to understand their reasons and their feelings for each other which makes you fall for their love story as they move from being friends to something much more. In each other's arms they find the redemption they both need. A 4 star read for me as I am new to this author and wouldnt necessarily choose to read this type of romance usually so I was very pleasantly surprised. Lovely cozy Saturday afternoon read with a hot chocolate type read.
What if you had the chance to do it all again...would you do things differently?
Kate decides to start again by returning to college, posing as ten years younger student, as she wants a do over. She has walked away from a total car crash of her life events and decided to have a clean slate. Her motivation may at first nig seemike the best reason but her attempt to start fresh, grab a second chance and reinvent herself was uplifting.
Carter is a lovely character, well written and slightly damaged by past events that he carries the weight of. His guilt has shaped him into a very mature and responsible college student. He keeps himself distant as a punishment for what he sees as his failings and this is the story of how helping someone else can set you free.
"Everything changed the minute I realized she needed someone ...Making sure she was okay would be my first step towards redemption."
This is a well written, emotive story that will have you laughing and crying right along side the characters. Dealing with real life issues such as addiction and sexual assault I felt it was a very real to life scenerio that had shaped the characters which made it so much easier to identify with them and like them. Written from both Kate's and Carter's pov we get to understand their reasons and their feelings for each other which makes you fall for their love story as they move from being friends to something much more. In each other's arms they find the redemption they both need. A 4 star read for me as I am new to this author and wouldnt necessarily choose to read this type of romance usually so I was very pleasantly surprised. Lovely cozy Saturday afternoon read with a hot chocolate type read.
September 24, 2014
4 stars
Have you ever wanted to start over? Where no one knows who you really are or what you have been doing for the past 29 years? You would be able to act like all the mistakes that you have made never happened? This is exactly what Kate did. But when her past collides with her future, she must learn to be herself no matter what.
Kate having nothing left but to try to reinvent herself, goes back to college as a 19 year. What she can pull it off. I mean what 29 years can not pretend to be 19 again? As Kate learns to deal with the trials of being a freshman in college; parties, drinking, guys and stay out later than she should. She begins to realize that she has to stick to her rules, no alcohol, no sex and stay focused. But when she meets senior Carter, she has the uncontrollable desire to forget her rules.
Carter is a senior and the RA for the floor that Kate will be living on at college; has just been trying to keep a low profile and graduate. He knows that his past has change the way people see him. But he has been doing everything he can to keep going each day. He does at least have his best friend Tristan to keep it real for him. As he is so close to graduating he can not let the attraction he feels for the new girl get him off track.
As Carter and Kate form a friendship and bond that seems to link them together, they begin to open up and share secrets with each other. But sometimes telling the truth is harder than you think. And when the time to tell the truth passes, hearts will be broken.
Can Kate and Carter learn to accept each others past and let it go so that they can move on?
Have you ever wanted to start over? Where no one knows who you really are or what you have been doing for the past 29 years? You would be able to act like all the mistakes that you have made never happened? This is exactly what Kate did. But when her past collides with her future, she must learn to be herself no matter what.
Kate having nothing left but to try to reinvent herself, goes back to college as a 19 year. What she can pull it off. I mean what 29 years can not pretend to be 19 again? As Kate learns to deal with the trials of being a freshman in college; parties, drinking, guys and stay out later than she should. She begins to realize that she has to stick to her rules, no alcohol, no sex and stay focused. But when she meets senior Carter, she has the uncontrollable desire to forget her rules.
Carter is a senior and the RA for the floor that Kate will be living on at college; has just been trying to keep a low profile and graduate. He knows that his past has change the way people see him. But he has been doing everything he can to keep going each day. He does at least have his best friend Tristan to keep it real for him. As he is so close to graduating he can not let the attraction he feels for the new girl get him off track.
As Carter and Kate form a friendship and bond that seems to link them together, they begin to open up and share secrets with each other. But sometimes telling the truth is harder than you think. And when the time to tell the truth passes, hearts will be broken.
Can Kate and Carter learn to accept each others past and let it go so that they can move on?
October 7, 2014
I found Again to be a quick and easy read that I was able to finish in a few hours. The storyline is one I'll bet a lot of readers would like to find themselves in--going back for a do-over in college, trying to get it right the second time around. I understand why Kate's character is trying to hide her age, but it did bug me a bit just from my personal point of view. BUT-I can identify with her from the standpoint of an older student since I went back to college myself about seven years after my first go-around...which gave me a personal view into her character (well, at least partially-I wasn't a party girl the first time around).
Carter, the lead male character, had his own issues from his past-but you still feel just a bit bad for him, even though the issue really is his own fault. He and Kate seem to fit well together, regardless of their age difference.
But there's secrets...and when you've got those, you know sooner or later things are going to come to a head and people will wind up getting hurt.
I liked getting both Kate and Carter's POVs, and the Kate's roommate Dawn is a great secondary character. The writing flowed pretty well (one of the reasons I was able to read through this so quickly), though I did figure out part of the secret a bit early on...though that didn't detract from the enjoyment of the book.
This was a good overall read, 3.5 stars and recommended for the 18+ crowd.
Carter, the lead male character, had his own issues from his past-but you still feel just a bit bad for him, even though the issue really is his own fault. He and Kate seem to fit well together, regardless of their age difference.
But there's secrets...and when you've got those, you know sooner or later things are going to come to a head and people will wind up getting hurt.
I liked getting both Kate and Carter's POVs, and the Kate's roommate Dawn is a great secondary character. The writing flowed pretty well (one of the reasons I was able to read through this so quickly), though I did figure out part of the secret a bit early on...though that didn't detract from the enjoyment of the book.
This was a good overall read, 3.5 stars and recommended for the 18+ crowd.
October 9, 2014
I really related to the characters in this book. The author did a good job making the characters relatable. From Dawn who was rebelling and hiding her pain of his dads disrespect of her mom behind her goth persona to Kate who was hiding herself in alcohol to stop thinking of herself as a failure to Carter who was hiding behind his self imposed punishment for the guilt he felt over his inactions in his freshman year. He couldn’t get past it and by staying at the school others didn’t let him forget. To Trevor who hid how much he wanted to have a relationship behind his don’t care attitude.
Kate went so far as to try to go back and change decisions she made in the past. What she forgot is that you can never go back only forward and you need to own who you are. It was fun though to read. Her and Carter fighting their attraction both for different reasons. His fear and guilt hers her lying and thinking he was to young. When they do succumb its so sweet. I loved how Trevor and Carter were with each other as well. The banter was funny between everyone and the lightness it added to some heavy topics in the book was needed.
The book was a fun look at fighting attraction that made you feel good and wanted you to be better. A love that was unconditional and where the accepted you for you. One where you faced your mistakes and owned them. A sweet book to read.
Kate went so far as to try to go back and change decisions she made in the past. What she forgot is that you can never go back only forward and you need to own who you are. It was fun though to read. Her and Carter fighting their attraction both for different reasons. His fear and guilt hers her lying and thinking he was to young. When they do succumb its so sweet. I loved how Trevor and Carter were with each other as well. The banter was funny between everyone and the lightness it added to some heavy topics in the book was needed.
The book was a fun look at fighting attraction that made you feel good and wanted you to be better. A love that was unconditional and where the accepted you for you. One where you faced your mistakes and owned them. A sweet book to read.
October 5, 2014
Wow, what an incredibly disappointing book! I think this is the first time I mildly disliked a character at the beginning and couldn't stand her at the end! Kate's an alcoholic who slept with her married boss, then was subsequently fired. What does she do? Lies to her mother about her plans and enrolls in college as a 19 year-old. The only catch is she's actually almost 30 and is living in a dorm with other 19 year-olds, trying to fit in. Her first weekend there she hits a party, boozing it up until she's so drunk she rips her shirt off in front of everyone. How pathetic is that? She starts lusting after a 22 year-old who has had a seriously bad past and (in my eyes) pretty much takes advantage of him. The ending really disgusted me - after Kate's real age is discovered, she's forced to drop out of college. Carter sets her up in an apartment until he graduates and then moves them across the country, paying her way as well as her new college costs! Pathetic.
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