Again

Fate #4

by Elizabeth Reyes

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No regrets. Just lessons learned.

Having lived through the torment of losing his first love to someone else—all because he never spoke up—Sydney Maricopa vowed never to repeat that mistake again.

So when he finally admits he’s fallen for his new best friend, he refuses to lose her too, especially once he realizes his feelings for her might be requited. There’s only one problem.

Her perfect boyfriend.

Still, Sydney’s determined to fight for the girl he loves this time. He has what it takes to go up against Mr. Perfect. Most importantly, he and his new best friend have something even her boyfriend can’t compete with—their profound connection. One he intends to use to win her over.

Until he finds out what she’d be giving up if she chooses Sydney.

Something no one should ever give up. Would he dream of selfishly asking her to? Or should he do the honorable thing and sacrifice his own happiness for hers? Allow the girl he loves to sail off into the sunset with another man as he stands back and watches in agony . . . again?

Genres: Romance, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers

362 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 3, 2015

About the author

Elizabeth Reyes is a USA Today Best Selling Author of The Moreno Brothers, 5th Street, Fate, Looking Glass, De Luca Boys series' and two stand alone novels Desert Heat, & Defining Love.

Join the fun and become a royal member of TeamReyes and enjoy the perks of early announcements,cover reveals teasers, including exclusive teasers shared only the group. Along with exclusive team,giveaways,discussions, trivia, Secret Santa and much much more!

Note to readers, I don't do dark, tragic or kill off main characters no matter what it might seem like. Just keep reading and trust me you'll ALWAYS get an HEA from me!

Moreno Brothers:

Forever Mine - New Adult / Mature YA

Sweet Sofie - New Adult/ Mature YA

Forever Yours - New Adult (Angel and Sarah's follow up (college story!)

When You Were Mine - (A prequel novella to Always Been Mine)- New Adult

Always Been Mine - Adult contemporary

Romero - New Adult- Adult contemporary

Making You Mine - New Adult
(with bonus Angel and Sarah short "Only 8 days") *Tearjerker

Tangled - (A Moreno Brothers holiday novella) Featuring Romero and Izzy

Tall, Dark & Obnoxious - Adult Romantic Comedy- short featuring Izzy's uptight sister and Romero's obnoxious uncle.


5th Street:

Noah - Adult Contemporary

Gio - New Adult

Hector - New Adult

Abel - Adult Contemporary *Tear Jerker

Felix - New Adult *Tear jerker

Blindside - Adult contemporary short featuring Noah and Roni

Fate series:

Fate - New Adult

Breaking Brandon - New Adult *Tear jerker

Suspicious Minds - Adult contemporary

Again - New Adult/Adult Contemporary *MAJOR tear jerker

Rage - Adult contemporary

His To Guard - Adult contemporary

Uninvited - Adult contemporary

Boyle Heights series

Lila - Adult Contemporary

Beast - Adult Contemporary

Nine - Adult Contemporary/RomCom

Orlando - Adult Contemporary

Looking Glass

Girl In The Mirror - Adult Contemporary/psychological thriller

We Were One - Adult Contemporary *MAJOR tear jerker but TRUST ME! ;)

De Luca Boys

Remi's Choice - Adult Contemporary - Love triangle MAJOR angst - cheating but hailed one of the BEST love triangles written.




For more up to date info visit her website at www.ElizabethReyes.com

Reviews

[Sybil aka Lala · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh, the tangled web we weave…

Sydney is a successful man who used to be (maybe still is just a little bit) in love with his best friend many moons ago. This best friend has since married another man and is living her happily ever after with her husband and 2.5 kids.

Sydney meets Emi in the elevator of his building. There’s a bit of an embarrassing situation and she rushes out of the elevator. Sydney doesn’t expect to ever see her again, until he shows up at a funeral and sees her again. It’s here where Emi and Sydney spend the next two days hanging out with each other and takes a drive back home together.

Emi at 18 is ten years his junior and he really has no intention of becoming this girl’s friend, but Emi is so down to earth and unassuming that he can’t help but become her friend. We follow the couple for about a year as they go from strangers to acquaintances to friends who date other people and finally, when Sydney decides he will not let another woman get away, to lovers.

I thought the book was written brilliantly. It doesn’t just cover the age difference in a mention but it deals with issues such as two people of different ages being in different stages of life. Emi is still very much trying to figure out her space in life and what she wants to with it, where Sydney is already settled in a stable and successful career. Sydney is looking for someone to settle down with while Emi is still just dating.

Emi was a pleasure to read, she’s quirky and funny and bubbly and perfect for Sydney who is prone to being serious.

Most of the book is spent of them forming their friendship/ relationship and I think this is why the plot twist is so effective. I was reading and rooting for these two all the while and getting so invested in their story and then… BAM!

The book is filled with 3 dimensional characters; laugh out loud moments and heartfelt moments. A really enjoyable book!

(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly, truly enjoyed reading this book. It has been quite some time since I have read a book by Elizabeth Reyes (not on purpose). And this book just brought back all the reasons why I love reading her books. I will definitely be going back and reading books 2 and 3 in this series.

Again is Sydney and Emi's story. Sydney is Sarah's best friend from way back and I am so happy that he got his own book. Emi is part of the Moreno/Romero in an extended way. These two are living in the same building and don't realize how close they really are til a family gathering.

They develop a beautiful friendship, one that neither expected due to not only their age differences but where they are in their lives. But their friendship grows and becomes one that neither can live without. That makes things extremely difficult when Emi becomes serious with Sly and he is not thrilled that her best friend is a guy. Unfortunately, that is the only obstacle or problem that Emi and Sydney face. I won't give away much more about the plot or the storyline. Just know that this is one story where you are thrown a few curve balls at very unexpected times.

Elizabeth does a fantastic job of making this story so real and very relatable. The banter between all the characters is amazing. There isn't one instance that seems too far fetched. The entire story moves at the perfect pace and keeps you entertained. There were a few scenes where I found myself having to put the book down because I was overcome with emotions and had to get myself together before continuing. But I found myself smiling a lot in this book.


Even if you have never read any of the previous books in this series or her other series, you will still thoroughly enjoy this book. Elizabeth does a fantastic job of giving each of the characters a brief overview of how they all intertwine and it doesn't deter from the story line.

I am looking forward to reading more from Elizabeth in the future!

[T.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow just wow!

Ok so I originally left this review while waiting in line for Alice in Wonderland at Disneyland. The book was so good I made my poor kids ride the train around the entire park twice just so I could finish. LOL!

It left me speechless and my original review did not do this book justice. Like I mentioned originally this book had me closing my reader and taking deep breathes. I literally got up from my recliner a few times and took a walk, just so I wouldn't throw my Nook against the wall. Like a lot of you have mentioned I too both loved and hated Sydney throughout this read. I hate spoilers but what he does to Emi with a straight face gutted me. Elizabeth has never steered me wrong, so once again I loved it. I definitely recommend this book and all of her books.

[Lindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was counting down the moments when I could delve back in to the family and friend centered warmth of The Moreno and Romero families, because I know it will always be an emotional journey abundant in love, loyalty, caring, fun times, and realistic life challenges. These characters have owned my heart from the time I read, Forever Mine, and as the years have passed, these families have matured, grown in size, and overcome a number of hurdles. I have been blessed to be with these beloved characters throughout every step of their life journey's.

Again, is Sydney Maricopa's story. We first met Sydney when he was a teenager, and got to know him as Sarah's best friend. He has always been loyal to Sarah, and even fell in love with her, but Angel was her one and only true love. Sydney is twenty-eight when the story begins, and hasn't had much success in the relationship department. He has one divorce behind him, and always finds a reason why a girl he's seeing isn't the right one for him. The largest reason being, he compares all women to Sarah, and finds them extremely lacking. Nobody has every understood him, made him feel as comfortable, or enjoy their company as much as Sarah has.

Sydney ends up meeting his sweet, young, and innocent neighbor Emilia (Em), and finds himself very attracted to her. Unfortunately, she is only nineteen, and the age difference between the two of them is too great in his opinion. Coincidence leads Sydney and Em to embark on a friendship. After a year, they have become best friends, spend a ton of quality time with one another, and have intense feelings that continue to grow daily. However, they both do not want to risk there amazing friendship. Especially, because Sydney is looking for a serious relationship, while Em is young and not looking for a serious commitment. Once Sydney and Em end up in relationships with other people, feelings of jealousy, possessiveness, desire, and love for one another become magnified. Obstacles are against Sydney and Em. What will they do?

Again was such a marvelous reading experience. I enjoyed reading about the strong friendship between Sydney and Em. It was obvious that these two were soul mates. They didn't have to try to fit together, they just did. The sexual tension between them was pretty intense, and added to feelings of anticipation as pertaining to where it would all lead. The friendships and family ties is one of my favorite aspects concerning the books Ms. Reyes writes, and Again was no different. All of Ms. Reyes' characters are so richly crafted, and realistic. They come to life right off of the page, and the author makes it look effortless. The plot of the story kept me on my toes, and had one major twist. For readers passionate about romance that includes three dimensional characters, a seamless plot, and a substantial story with depth and meaning, pick up any book by Ms. Reyes!
Rating:

I give, Again, by Elizabeth Reyes, 5 Beautiful Friendship, Tear-Streaked Kindle, Passionate Love, Hooked & Addicted Stars!!!


*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com

[April Brookshire · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great story. I think this was the first Elizabeth Reyes book where the hero is so much older than the heroine (almost a decade). I’ve read a couple of her 5th Street books where the heroines are way older than the heroes and I prefer the hero being older.

The story starts out with Sydney and Ella meeting in a comical way, then meeting again through family/friends and becoming best friends (they live in the same apartment building).

Their friendship grows to love within a year, which each of them keep silent about because of the age difference. They really are at different places in life, but being soulmates they can’t help finally getting together.

***Spoiler Alert!!!

They do date other people while being only friends, so some readers may not like hearing about them sleeping with other people. Fortunately, it’s not in any way a cheating situation.

Towards the end of the book, after Sydney and Ella have been an official couple for about six months, there’s a big plot twist. I kind of saw it coming with Sydney’s family history, but I was surprised with the aftermath of it. He handled the situation so freaking badly and Ella was in so much pain that I really felt for her.

The resolution to the plot twist and major drama was actually too rushed, which is unfortunate because it was good reading.

So, another awesome Elizabeth Reyes book that has me excited for her future releases.

FAVORITE QUOTES:

She fisted her hand in the air as her words got angrier. “I said take Chuy if you have to take someone!”

“Pan up! Pan up!” Romero continued to tease with a huge grin. “My eyes are up here. Don’t be so obvious, girl.”

She’d lowered her voice extra low when she loosely quoted him, making him sound extra stupid. “You can’t just assume private schools are academically superior. Factors, demographics. Ooh, listen to me. I’m so smart. Blah, blah, blah.”

[Nicola · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I Received a copy of this book from the author***

I really enjoyed reading the story of Sydney and Emi. This is a great story of love with a big age gap. Elizabeth Reyes does a fantastic job of portraying all the difficulties such a age gap would entail, with the drama the insecurities. Emi is a fantastic character and bought to life by Elizabeth's words so easily,she is fun and feisty and strong even though young. Their love for each other is such a brilliant story and without spoiling , cary a hankie it is rather sad at times. Great book worth a read :)

[Kirke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t expect for Sydney to get his own story, but I’m glad he did. Last we heard he married some girl, he and Sophie were still friends, and Angel tolerates that friendship. It’s not necessary to read Forever Mine first, things get explained well enough to follow along. We’re now a couple of years later, and Sydney is divorced and living back in the Los Angeles area. Life is pretty good for him, the only thing really missing is someone to share it with.

E. is his neighbor, and extended Moreno/Romero family. When her family asks Sydney to keep an eye on her while she’s there alone in the big city, a friendships forms between them. Before you know it, these two are best friends. They hang out all the time, cook for each other, talk about everything. While there is some obvious tension, neither dares to act on it.

In the beginning Sydney pretty much refuses to admit he has fallen for his best friend, again. He’s looking for reasons why things would never work between them; she’s too young, she doesn’t want anything serious, it would be terribly awkward at family gatherings if things don’t work out etc. It’s a slow buildup from both sides. Really it’s just a matter of time before everything bubbles up, and denying becomes impossible.

I like Sydney. To me he seems to be such a mature, confident, sophisticated man, and let’s not forget, good-looking. It was easy to understand is hesitance for giving in to his feelings for E. He’s been there before, and last time he didn’t get the girl. A certain part of him is scared, though luckily in the end he might finally see reason.

E. was such a hoot. Yes, she’s young, though still very entertaining. Her constant optimism and bubbly personality were so likable, and exactly what Sydney needed. While in the beginning she’s not looking for anything serious, when she realizes what she feels for Sydney, it’s just different. If you met the one, you don’t just let him walk away because you might not just be ready. You’ll be ready when you he’s standing right in front of you.

The fact that this connection began as a close friendship, is what made me like their story so much. I’m not a huge fan of the fact that they dated other people while they were just friends, but it was realistic and I never felt frustrated by these events. It actually felt necessary to make it believable. We got to see this connection grow, and those scenes were such a pleasure to read.

Again is a great addition to Elizabeth Reyes’ repertoire. I’m so happy now that Sydney got his own story, and in a way it’s perfect for him. He finally got his best friend in the end, though he nearly screwed it up again. Two quite different characters, though therefore greatly compatible, and it was so much fun to get to know them better. Sydney really is a superb guy, and E. can call herself a lucky girl.

*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*

[Shawnee is A Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are absolutely no words for how much I enjoyed Again. it was such a pleasure getting to know Sydney the way we did. I have to admit how crazy it was to see everyone so grown up but at the same time how much of good time it was knowing what each couple has been through and to see them so happy. The Fate series is EASILY my absolute FAVORITE and Again made sure it stayed that.There was so much from Sydney that I didn't expect, to be honest I never really gave too much thought to him other than him being Sarah's BFF and Angels pain in the ass (lol) but it was great to see him in a new light! The h is a little spitfire thats so down to earth! she definitely fits in with our girls! Again was an awesome read! I've honestly already started to reread it because I enjoyed it so much 5 stars from me! I can't WAIT for the next!

[Margarita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was always hoping that Elizabeth would give us Sydney's story but let me tell you something, I wasn't prepared for this...Talk about an emotional roller coaster!! Sydney is great! So super sweet & sexy! I am so glad I have always loved him... Wait?! What's going on Sydney? What are you doing man? Oh my heart, my heart, my heart literally hurts! It hurts, it hurts so bad, Noooooooo!! I feel like I have just been run through a ringer...I can't take it, OMG...I'm so broken over this, just take the heart from my chest, I don't need it anymore, I can't breathe..I will be ok, I will be ok, I will be ok...I will try to grow from this...What? Oh, wow...there's a twist for you...WOW....Oh my word... I love you Sydney (but still am a little upset with you) I love it!! It was perfect.

(This will only make sense to Elizabeth Reyes Readers)

[Venessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pov: male & female

Main characters: Sydney & Emilia

Minor characters: Isaiah, AJ & Nathan (her brothers), Olivia (her sister), Sarah (his best friend), Cristina (his friends widow), Sly (her boyfriend)

My thoughts:

I liked this book, but it could have been more. I didn't mind that they were apart for most of the book, but I would have liked to see more longing and angst between them. Even if the characters thought it was one sided.

I would have liked to see more interaction with her family. I get she doesn't live with them anymore, but for as overprotective as they were made to be they sure left her alone a lot.

I would have liked to see more of their year apart. Or at least more of what happened to him. I saw her heartbreak, but not really his.

I did like that he wasn't a controlling guy. I didn't mind his jealousy, but I think that was because he reined it in. All the men in this series are so jealous and over the top.

It was an ok book. The writing was mature, but it just could have been a little deeper.



Synopsis:

Sydney was raised by his mom after his dad unexpectedly died from a brain tumor. He was best friends with Sarah. He realized he was in love with her but didn't know if she felt the same so he never told her.

Sarah moved away and met Angel and fell in love. Eventually they got married. He and Sarah remained friends but he always felt like she was the one that got away.

He got married but didn't want to start a family. His wife divorced him and he realized he does want a family, just not with her.

Emilia is the youngest of 5. She moved to LA for college, while he rest of her family lives in San Diego. Her brothers are very overprotective.

Emilia and Sydney live in the same building. One day they're the only 2 people in the elevator and she farts. She runs out embarrassed and he thinks it's funny.

He goes to a funeral reception for one of Sarah's relatives, who he became close friends with, and Emilia is there. He consoles the widow Cristina.

Emilia sees him and explains she didn't fart. That her brother changed her ringtone. They hit it off and spend the rest of the party talking and hanging out. He finds out she's only 19.

He plans to stay another night to go to a birthday party for one of Sarah's kids and Sarah offers him as a ride so Emilia can stay too. Emilia knows there's history between him and Sarah and she's interested.

At the end of the weekend he drives them home. She asks about Sarah and he tells her they were like siblings, which is why a relationship never happened.

He doesn't want to get close to her because he knows she's young and her family is overbearing.

They exchange numbers, but he has no intention of ever calling. She doesn't want to be the annoying teenager bothering the older guy.

A week later she has computer trouble and asks for his help. She's attracted to him but is determined to be friends. He's attracted to her but knows it's inappropriate because she's so young.

They become friends and hang out over the next year. She starts casually dating Darren, but doesn't want to be serious. He assumes she's not ready for a serious relationship because she's so young. She just knows Darren isn't the one for her.

He dates around but wants to settle down.

One day she asks about Sarah. He confesses he loved her but never told her. She starts to feel jealous of Sarah, even though she and Sydney aren't together.

It bothers her that she's bothered.

They carpool to San Diego for a family party for the weekend. Cristina calls and Emilia asks if they're close, since he's never mentioned her before. He tells her he feels connected to her because he lost his dad suddenly, like she lost her husband.

Sarah and Valerie (her sister in law) tell him they met someone for him. Emilia feels jealous of the mystery blind date.

Sarah gets him alone and asks him about Emilia. He knows he's developing feelings for her but refuses to admit it or let them grow. He tells Sarah they're just friends. She points out how quiet Emilia got when they mentioned the blind date.

They go to her sisters house and on the drive she asks about the date, and the girl he was seeing. He tells her he wouldn't date 2 people at once and she gets offended. She thinks he's judging her since she's been dating Darren on and off all year, but sees other people once in a while.

He plans to get a hotel room for the night and she offers him a room in her brothers house, since she was staying alone anyway.

He stays and accidentally walks in on her naked getting out of the shower. They apologize and she decides to put up boundaries, because she's starting to like him.

The next day he has his blind date. She's annoyed that he spends the whole time with the girl. Olivia asks if there's something between them. She denies it.

When they leave for the night he tells her the blind date was awful. She's relieved.

A new guy, Sly, joins the baseball team and her brother introduces them. They hit it off and start dating. Sydney doesn't like it. He realizes he's jealous and that this situation is just like what happened with Sarah.

He starts seeing a movie star who lives in their building, they had already slept together before he met Emilia. He avoids Emilia.

She likes Sly, but she realizes she's in love with Sydney. She notices Sydney isn't around much and finds out he's seeing the movie star again.

There's a small fire at his moms house and he rushes to help her. The movie star was having personal issues and bumped into him as he was leaving. She wanted to get away from LA and he invited her to his moms.

Emilia sees pictures of Sydney with the movie star and gets jealous. She finds out from Sarah about the fire and is hurt that Sydney didn't tell her, because she thought they were best friends.

He gets jealous of her and Sly, and he realizes it didn't bother him to see Sarah with her new boyfriend. He realizes he loves Emilia, and what he felt for Sarah wasn't as intense.

Their birthdays come up and he takes her to her first bar. She gets tipsy and handsy. He likes it. He takes her home and she doesn't want him to leave.

She asks him to stay the night with her and he says ok. They talk and end up kissing. She tells him she'd break up with Sly for him if he asked her to. She passes out and he decides he wants to be with her. That he's going to fight for her.

In the morning her family and Sly come over and he sneaks out, leaving his phone and keys behind. She doesn't remember anything.

Sly tells her he wants to meet Sydney. She takes Sydney his stuff and mentions Sly requesting to meet him. Sydney is hurt that she would ask him to watch her and Sly together all day. She doesn't understand.

The family goes to a charity walk then dinner. Sydney comes to dinner and tells everyone he has to leave early. That he's dating the movie star and they're going away together. Emilia is crushed.

Sly and AJ have to leave early and she walks them out. She breaks up with Sly. She tells him her heart belongs to someone else and it isn't fair to string him along.

Sydney comes out to leave and she starts crying. He tells her he loves her and asks if those tears are because she loves him too and doesn't want him to go. She tells him yes and rushes to him. They kiss and he tells her she has to break up with Sly. She tells him she already did.

They rush home and she uses her mouth on him. Her family comes before they can have sex. She tells them all they're together. That they love each other and broke up with the movie star and Sly. Her brothers warn him to be good to her.

They're together for months and things are perfect.

Suddenly she notices he's a little irritated. She thinks he's growing tired of her. She notices how well he gets along with Cristina, and how young and immature they make her feel.

He had been getting tension headaches and went to the doctor when they didn't get better. They did scans and found out it was a tumor. He called Cristina, because he didn't want Emilia to know.

One night his doctor calls and wants to do more tests. He calls Cristina and tells Emilia it was someone from work. That he needs to leave for a business trip.

He's irritated and she tries to stay out of his way. She notices his phone and sees a message from Cristina. He changed his password and she's scared.

Cristina calls back and Emilia sees. He takes the call and leaves the apartment. She's confused and doesn't want to jump to conclusions. She takes a shower and when she gets out he's already gone.

She thinks he's having an affair and he won't answer her calls.

He's gone for days and doesn't answer her messages. She's confused and devastated. She finally calls Cristina.

He finds out the tumor could be cancerous and needs to be operated on. He tells Cristina he doesn't want to be with Emilia and then die leaving her alone and scared. That he wants her to have a full happy life.

He knows she thinks he's having an affair and decides to tell her he is. Cristina thinks that's an awful plan.

When Emilia calls her Cristina tells her Sydney is already home. She asks Cristina if he was with her the whole trip and Cristina says yes. Emilia is devastated.

Sydney goes to her apartment and she slaps him. He tells her he fell in love with Cristina. That he didn't mean for it to happen but he wants to be with her. Emilia is devastated.

She asks him to tell her he doesn't love her anymore and he does.

A week later her brothers can't get in touch with her so they stop by. She's a drunken mess and they're furious. They confront Sydney and he tells them they broke up. They warn him to stay away from her. That he used her and discarded her and they won't let him near her again.

He realizes she didn't tell anyone about Cristina.

Sarah calls and demands to know what's going on. He confesses that he's in love with Emilia. That he has a brain tumor and doesn't want her to be stuck with him. Sarah tells him he should be honest with Emilia but he won't.

Emilia moves out of the building and back home to San Diego. She goes to cooking school and starts working at the family restaurant.

A year later she gets asked to help cater a party for Sarah. She knows Sydney will be there and plans to avoid him.

Sydney has surgery done on the tumor and is scheduled to have it removed. He goes to the party for Sarah and hopes to see Emilia, just in case the surgery isn't successful. He wants to see her one last time.

Emilia sees him walk into the party with Cristina wearing a hat. He previously told her he hated hats, but Cristina loved them.

Sydney comes to talk to her and she knows she can't do it. His mother comes and starts telling her about how busy the last year has been and how sorry she is. Sydney cuts her off.

Emilia leaves the party early and falls apart at home. His mom calls and shows up at her house. His mom tells her Sydney just told her about the tumor. That he lied to Emilia about Cristina because he didn't want to tie her down to someone who could be sick.

His mom explains he's having the tumor removed and Emilia rushes to be with him.

The surgery is a success and when he wakes up Emilia is there. He's confused and she tells him she loves him but she's angry.

He apologizes for what he did and tells her he never stopped loving her. That he doesn't want to hold her back. She tells him he took a year away from her and she doesn't care if something happens to him down the line. That they're going to be together.

He recovers and moves to San Diego to be with her. He takes a demotion at work, but a few months later they offer to let him work remotely.

6 months after the surgery he proposes. She says yes.

[Mikki D · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest installment of Elizabeth Reyes’ Fate series, Again, is a book that will deliver all the feels. I have been a fan of this author since the moment I read her first book, Forever Mine, and I never looked back. I have devoured every single book she has written since then. When I start reading one of her books, I know that I’m either reuniting with my fiction land family or that I will be making new friends. One thing is sure, it’s a guaranteed unforgettable reading escape EVERY.SINGLE.TIME.

In Again we follow Sydney Maricopa, which is Sarah’s best friend from Forever Mine (The Moreno Brothers, #1), and his new best friend, EG (Elevator Girl). I am not going to say who the heroine is in this book because I want readers to go into this story without knowing who will steal Sydney’s heart. If you have read the previous books from this author you will probably be happy dancing when you find out who it is … I know I did!!! Sydney and EG probably have the most EPIC LOL first encounter that I have ever read! Since the moment they meet there is a connection there, but they both go their separate ways. To Sydney’s surprise, he finds out that EG is connected in some kind of way to his best friend Sarah. After they ‘’officially’’ meet, they start talking and the rest is history. As days go by, their friendship grows into something more and sparks fly. Sydney is torn about his feelings for EG. She is everything he wants, but can’t have. Sydney is once again falling for his best friend, but will he get the girl this time around?

When I found out that Sydney was getting his own book, I really did not know what to expect. I did like him when I read the previous books he was mentioned in, but I never really connected with him the way I did with the other characters from the Fate or Moreno Brother’s series. Nonetheless, I was positive that Elizabeth Reyes was going to make me fall for him. She always delivers when it comes to her characters. They always have this addictive personality that keeps you wanting to know more about them. As for the heroine, EG, I absolutely freakin’ loved her from the moment she started talking. There is a je-ne-sais-quoi about her that instantly caught my attention. I would totally get along with her in the real world ;)

What I loved the most about this book is the friendship part of Sydney and EG’s relationship. It was beautiful to see them in love, but I was excited to read about the moments that got them to that happy place. The chemistry between these two is divine!!! You could feel the attraction that they had for each other when they were in the same room. I was cheering for this couple from beginning to end … Well almost. I’ll let you know about the almost part in a moment. There is an age different of about 8-9 years between Sydney and EG. I have no problem with that, but the main characters had some issues with it, especially Sydney. He wanted to walk away from what he was feeling for EG, but the truth is that he knew that EG was the one person who could make him happy for the rest of his life. There are many more obstacles along the way that made it difficult for Sydney and EG to finally admit their feelings for each other. EG had the perfect boyfriend and Sydney had a no string attached relationship that got on EG’s nerves.

Sydney and EG’s love for each other is what got them through the difficult times. And, believe me when I say that there are some pretty heartbreaking times along this reading journey, which brings me to the ‘’Almost’’ part that I was mentioning before. Gah!!!! I don’t even know where to start!!! I’m still so freakin’ mad at Sydney!!!! Elizabeth Reyes always has a way to make me feel all kinds of different emotions while reading her books, but this time around she did the unexpected!!!!! She broke my heart into a million pieces!!!!! I’m not talking about the heart breaking that gets fixed after you finish reading the book. Noooooooooo!!! I’m talking about the heartbreak that still lingers around days after I have finished reading the book! I swear that I never saw it coming and then, Ba-Bammmmmmmm!!! I have never hated a character so much like I hated Sydney the moment those words came out of his mouth … How dare you!!!!! I’m getting all nervous just thinking about that one scene!!! Trust me when I say that you will want to deliver a couple of virtual slaps his way … he totally deserves them for what he did!!!

All my drama aside, this story totally captivated me and the author made me feel like I was not only reading the story, but I was living it as well. If you have not read a book by Elizabeth Reyes yet, you are seriously missing out! Her stories are PHENOMENAL, her writing style is BRILLIANT and her characters are UNFORGETTABLE!!! I had fun check-in with the crew from the Fate and Moreno Brother’s series. These characters are like my family and every moment spent with them is a memory that I hold close to my heart. I highly recommend any of Elizabeth Reyes’ books, you will not be disappointed!

I give Again, by Elizabeth Reyes, 5 exciting, page-turning, heart-pumping, chemistry filled, falling for your best friend stars!

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

When I saw that Elizabeth Reyes was going to be releasing Again, I was super excited for a couple of reasons. One, I love Elizabeth Reyes' books. Two, I've always wondered what happened to Sidney after Forever Mine (The Moreno Brother's #1).

I'm a big fan of Elizabeth Reyes' novels because I absolutely love the characters she creates--especially the guys. She knows how to make the best alpha males. They're all gorgeous, sexy, sweet, strong, smart, determined and jealous. Yes, I said jealous. It feels weird to be complimenting jealousy, but the jealousy these guys exhibit is pretty hot.

Sydney was all of those things. He may not have been as "rough" as some of the other guys from The Moreno Brothers or Fate series, but Sydney was all man. It was fun to get to know him in a way other than Sarah's friend.

The women Reyes writes are great, too. They're all strong, independent, beautiful and they know how to put those jealous guys in their place! Emi was all of those things, but what I liked best about her was she was just so darn adorable. Well, until her jealous side came out and then she was as crazy as any other nineteen-year-old.

My favorite thing about Again was the story of how Sydney and Emi went from friend zone to romance. I loved the way the book started out and then how I was able to see the progression of their relationship. They had such great chemistry and were so adorable. It was such a fun friends to lovers story.

I wanted to give Again 5 stars really, really bad. There were just one tiny thing that bothered me a bit. I wasn't big on Sydney's storyline and choice near the end. It was foreshadowed, but it felt really abrupt. I guess I was thinking it was going to go in a different direction than it did. But other than that, I loved this story!

Again is a great friends to lovers story. It's definitely for a more mature audience. I would also recommend reading Forever Mine (The Moreno Brothers #1) prior to reading Again to be familiar with Sydney's previous storyline. (It's FREE to download right now on Amazon!) You wouldn't need to read the entire series before reading Again, but there are references to friends and family from both The Moreno Brothers and Fate series.

[Lea · Rating 5 out of 5]

No matter how many times I have read this book I still feel every emotion as if it were my first time reading. Since the beginning of the Moreno series I was never satisfied with Sydney's outcome. I was so happy when he got his own book! He has grown up and become such a great man. His encounter meeting Emi was Priceless! The friendship that they form is exactly how every relationship should begin. I love to see how they fit into each others lives so well even though they are in completely different stages in their own lives. When they do finally get together it was perfect.

Now saying all of that, oh Sydney, Sydney, Sydney...... How could you!?!?!?!

I could deal with (I didn't say i was happy about it) and understand why he did what he ultimately did, but the Fedora?!?! Really?!?!? I think that's the part of the book that ALWAYS breaks my heart the most. I know it's just a hat, but the reason behind it just gets me every time!

I have never been so happy about a meddling mother in my life! So glad Sydney's mom did what she did.

I love each and every Elizabeth Reyes book! Each one is so different but so perfect within the entwined Moreno/Romero family. They are written so well that I still have to remind myself that they are not real people.

I think I've read this book at least 5 times, probably more, but they never get old. It's like revisiting family! Off to read Rage again!

[Ivette · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC***
This book did not disappoint. Elizabeth writes such amazing stories. She has the power to make you feel like you are ready to throw up, get excited, laugh and jump for joy in one chapter. She made my heart hurt so bad I was literally clenching my shirt as I read. How she connects the characters from one book to another is dumbfounding. Sydney and Emilia’s story starts out with lots of laughs *elevator scene*. The age of these characters are a few years apart but they connect so perfectly. You know what they say “Age is just a number”. I have to try and remember not to be surprise with Elizabeth’s book but that's going to be very hard. You feel like you know an author style of writing but the scenes she sets up in there holy shit! I couldn’t put it down. GREAT JOB AS ALWAYS ELIZABETH!!

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sydney Maricopa, AGAIN

His story needed to be told, in FM and in FY I had a mixed feelings about him but I'm glad his story was told and he has definitely redeemed himself. It took a while for Sydney and his love interest to get together just like IN REAL LIFE. I loved the fact that their acquaintanceship became a friendship then a romantic relationship, it took its time and it wasn't rushed. I would like to find out how the Heroine is doing now and how has she outgrown some of her fears, I feel like the Epilogue would have been great for that. I love the fact that Sydney addressed his issues regarding those from his past. Sydney is definitely a DIRTY MAN lol, he is RAW and Naughty and he isn't afraid to let his Heroine take some control too. Thank You for story Elizabeth Reyes

[Frances Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok so im not really good at reviews but here you go.
Wow. I was so excited when I Read this book. I couldn't put it down I read it in one sitting.Elizabeth Reyes knocked this book out of the park. I was a Sydney fan in forever mine. And was just so excited to reading his story I just knew she girl he fell for has to be just as awesome as Sarah. And guess what she is. I LOVED it. Must read

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for finally giving us Sydney. I was trying to wait to read it so I didn't just attack the book and finish it fast, but that didn't happen. I devoured this book. The way the story developed was just right. I figured out what happened but it was still nice to see the time go by and see it all unfold. Once again thank you.

[Mrs Darcy reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

with nerves and tense moments this was such a great story about sweet and caring sydney finding his soulmate in emi! this book had it all! from the sweetmess and the steaminess and the 'get together already!" moments its such a great addiction to the series :)

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Sydney's story since I read Forever Mine, and I was NOT disappointed!! What a crazy ride this one was!

[Tracey Zelukovic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really love this book, couldn't put it down. I cried and got angry through out this book. But the ending was the best. Love Elizabeth's book can't get enough.

[Camy · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at about 80%.

Saw the twist coming a mile away and still couldn't read past the nonsensical decisions.

[Books Laid Bare · Rating 5 out of 5]

When this book hit my kindle, I did the only thing I could – started with book 1 and read the whole series and I am so pleased that I did, I had forgotten just how much I loved these guys!
Sydney has been around from the very beginning – Angel’s wife Sophie and Sydney have been friends forever, a little too close if you were to ask Angel but they have worked their situation out.
But jump forward in time and now we have a recently divorced Sydney the IT whizz back in LA and even though he has never really been out of the picture, having him on the doorstep is about to get a whole heap more complicated than anyone could have possibly imagined.
Emi is the little sister of Angel’s sister-in-law Olivia and part of the whole Moreno/Romero family, but she has no idea who Sydney is despite the fact that they live in the same apartment block they have never met before.
But attending a family event, the two of them are foisted upon each other so to speak and a very comfortable friendship begins.
Sydney is a great character, late twenties, a high achiever, comfortable in his own skin and sexy as sin, he is a catch that any woman would love to land but he has been down that road before and while he is enjoying the single life once more, he also is aware that his contemporaries are all in relationships and he is somewhat missing that aspect of his life.
Emi is a hoot, she is a nurturer by nature, such an adorable character. Her attraction to Sydney plays on her mind but she convinces herself that no matter what she thinks he would never be with someone like her and she even goes so far as to date one of her superstar brother’s teammates.
But can she cast aside the way she feels?
Sydney is aware that Emi is much younger than him but he is also aware of the fact that the time he spend with her is easily the time that he enjoys the most. They are soon virtually inseparable and while they are both harbouring feelings towards each other, neither of them are willing to risk taking that final step.
I was screaming at them to get on with it – a blind man could have seen that they were meant to be together but then again I didn’t have the weight of the Moreno’s baring down of me, fitting into this clan would be achievement in itself.
But when the inevitable eventually happened, I was smiling from ear to ear, they were just glorious together but I had a niggle that I was celebrating too soon and I didn’t have to wait long to have the smile wiped from my face. I was gutted!!
This is a super story, one that I completely adored. I was thrilled that Sydney got his story, he was a sort of forgotten character but he deserved to be heard.
I loved Emi but I actually loved hearing all about her brothers too, I hope we get a little bit more of them in future stories – I’d love for each of them to get their own book!
Elizabeth Reyes weaves her magic and brings the magic of the Moreno’s back to the fore – I’ve missed them!

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I was skeptical about reading Sydney's story. I stuck him in the friend zone of book boyfriends so I wasn't sure if reading his sex scenes was going to be like reading your little brother's. Awkward.

But no. I thought Reyes did a great job balancing "nice guy" Sydney that we all know and love with "grown up" Sydney - a confident, successful man that knows what he wants.

The story begins with twenty-nine year old Sydney attending the wake of a good friend (not a major character) and here, after an embarrassing first meeting, runs into twenty year old Emilia, Olivia's sister. The two have an obvious attraction but Sydney is leery of the age difference but that doesn't stop them from being friends. They talk, they hang out, Emi cooks for him, and they see other people. Just when you think you're going to die from the jealousies and sexual tension, Reyes puts you out of your misery. Squee! But it doesn't last.

I can't tell you how much I love misunderstandings such as these. They're so delicious. But not only was Emi left in the dark, so were we. I couldn't put it down. I had to find out what was really going on. This book had all the feels - laughter, giddiness, anger, tears, and back again to happiness.

I have to say job well done to Ms. Reyes for keeping these stories fresh a hundred books in. Please keep 'em coming. Bravo.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again is Sydney’s story. You remember Sydney right? Sarah’s best friend. We met him in Forever Mine. I have been anticipating Sydney’s story for a very long time. I was so thrilled when I received an ARC from Ms. Reyes. So thank you very much! I have been a longtime fan of all her books and this one did not disappoint! She did such a great job writing Sydney’s story.
I think one of the things I liked the best was how this was his story and his story only. You see into Sydney’s world and how he interacts with the previous characters we’ve read about. It was nice to see how he viewed the others and how he saw his relationship with Sarah.
Emilia is Sydney’s neighbor but is also related to the Romero’s. That of course means she is also involved with the Moreno crew. She’s young, beautiful, and sweet. The young part is what Sydney has an initial problem with. They meet and become very good friends….sound familiar? Neither act on any feelings they may have for one another, so you can feel the tension that sometimes explodes off the page.
The story is beautifully written, but I have to admit it had me reaching for tissues. It’s romantic, heartbreaking, and an all-around rollercoaster of a ride but it’s so worth it.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again by Elizabeth Reyes
Fate Series Book Four
Sydney Maricopa has everything. Great apartment, car, job and money. What more could a guy need? Love and family. What he doesn't need is another female friend. Been there done that, fell in love, and has the broken heart to prove it. And yet, for the second time in his life, he now has a best friend who is female. At least he learned his lesson from Lynni to just keep it as friends. Or did he?

With three older and very overprotective brothers and a sister, going to college two hours away, our heroine misses her family. When she finds out a mutual friend of her extended family lives in her apartment complex...they become fast friends. At nineteen she's not looking for anything more. Or is she?

As usual, Elizabeth Reyes does not let her characters have an easy path to love and the reader gets to join in on the roller coaster ride. I couldn't put this book down once I started reading it.

We first meet Sydney in the very first book by this author; Forever Mine. He is Sarah's best friend and that has caused Angel no small amount of angst through the years. And Sydney too. No woman has ever compared to Sarah.
**Sexual content and language
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...

[Dominique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok I'd like to address those who made unfavorable comments. Are you nuts? Ok you didn't like it whatever that speaks highly of your bad taste but to leave reviews? Oh get off it. I live in the real world with real problems. One thing that I love about Elizabeth Reyes and her writing is that is that REAL. People have drama, people have tough decisions, & insecurities. Now for the the important part my review of this book. Because at least two of the other reviews are how do I put this delicately? Insane. Lol ok that's my opinion. Ok Syd. Needed his time to shine and I'm sooooo grateful he got it. In Forever Mine he was Sarah's best friend. He was kind and compassionate, and took a lot of grieve. Than in Forever Yours we got a glimpse of some truths that may have been hard to sallow for some. Syd is amazing. Seriously Emi? As the lead female did not see that coming! The story was hilarious. I caught myself laughing out loud too many times to count. Elizabeth tried to kill us with some gut wrenching twists. But like I said she writes about real things. And sometimes we do the wrong things for the right reasons.

[De Reese Robinson]

SOULMATES ARE FOREVER!!!

Sydney, finally decides to look up from his phone, the news paper and his tablet to discover he's been letting life pass by him. Swearing off love, because he thought his one true love and life long friend Sarah Lynn (Lynni) had already been lost to another man. Sydney, spends a weekend with his bestfriend and her family only to see the same girl he noticed at his apartment complex. Formally meeting Emilia, Syd, realizes she's apart of Sarah's extended family, so he offers her a ride back to L.A. and they instantly become friends. Sydney, starts to feel more for Emi, but he also realizes that she is almost 10 years younger than he is. Why Emi, has fallen equally as hard, she continues to try and maintain a friendship with Syd, but things start to get complicated as other relationship start up, insecurities start to reveal themselves, jealousy starts to rear its ugly head and Sydney's Alpha male comes to Life. Will Sydney, finally claim his girl or will he let another man have what he wants???

[Roxy]

OH SYDNEY MARICOPA!!!!

I'm so glad Sydney got told his story, I like him in FM although it was hard for me to understand the friendship between him and Sarah, now that he got his truly soul mate he understands Angel completely. I love this side of him all caveman, it was hilarious seen all compose and level head Sydney lost his mind with jealousy, it remain me of Sal and Grace, maybe that's why I love the story, cause MYM its my fave. But just from the experts I knew I was going to love his book!!! Although I wanted to kill him at some point I love him dearest. Emi and Sydney story was a roller coaster, I was so frustrated with them for not speak out their feelings, ughhh it took them too long!!! But I fall in love with both, they make me cry, feel butterflies in my belly and fall in love all over again with a character. I know I always say this but Elizabeth Reyes can't do wrong, every book she writes I'll end up loving it and putting it in my collection of faves. Keep it coming cause you rock. Best Author Ever. Can't wait for Rage story!!!

[Marcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really looking forward to Sydney's story, and I was not disappointed. I loved getting to know him better. He was more of a quiet, intelligent type of guy. Thoughtful, respectful and caring of others. Emilia was a vibrant, young, out-going type of girl. They truly were opposites. I enjoyed their friendship, and all the thoughts and feelings they held back from each other were entertaining. They had great chemistry and lots of heat. Their jealous reactions to other relationships, even if just in their heads, served to prove that there was so much more between them than just friendship. There is plenty of angst in their story, as well as one major WTF moment. These are the types of stories that keep me hooked and reading to the end. I was thrilled to see the Morenos and Romeros again. I really love these characters, and I am always ready for more. Again was a wonderful addition to the Fate series, one that I wholeheartedly recommend.

[Bibi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth does it again!

Sydney has loved before and knew he'd love again, but why is the best thing to ever happen to him have to be his best friend? He's been down this road before, he knows what it's like to love someone and not have the love reciprocated. Can he do this again?

Emilia is young and free, the last thing she needs is a man to weigh her down. When she met Sydney, she was more than willing to form a friendship with the beautiful man. What she was not willing to do was admit that her carefree friendship was slowly becoming the only relationship she cared about.

Sydney and Emilia's love story will take you through a bumpy emotional ride. Hold on, it's worth it!