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Start Again #3
Start With Me
Claire
No relationships. No falling in love.
Those are my rules. Simple. Easy. Uncomplicated.
Then Kyle Grant walks into my life and tries to mess all that up with his GQ looks and irresistible charm.
He’s everything I want.
But can never have.
Kyle
The first moment I laid eyes on Claire Sullivan, I knew she was different.
Then reality hit me. She’s my brother’s assistant. She lives in Seattle and I live in New York.
As if that wasn’t enough, she reminds me with annoying frequency that she doesn’t do relationships.
But I don’t care. I want her. Now I just have to convince her to be mine.
No relationships. No falling in love.
Those are my rules. Simple. Easy. Uncomplicated.
Then Kyle Grant walks into my life and tries to mess all that up with his GQ looks and irresistible charm.
He’s everything I want.
But can never have.
Kyle
The first moment I laid eyes on Claire Sullivan, I knew she was different.
Then reality hit me. She’s my brother’s assistant. She lives in Seattle and I live in New York.
As if that wasn’t enough, she reminds me with annoying frequency that she doesn’t do relationships.
But I don’t care. I want her. Now I just have to convince her to be mine.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 17, 2017
191 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
About the author
J. Saman
56 books4,123 followersJ. Saman is a USA Today and Amazon top 10 bestselling author who writes sassy, swoony, and scorching contemporary romances. She is addicted to Diet Coke, sour candy, and indie rock. She swears way too much (especially after a glass of wine) and has a penchant for sarcasm (or so her husband and children like to tell her).
J. is an admitted lover of second chance romances, enemies to lovers, and the perfect amount of angst. She is best known for writing funny and emotional romances filled with smart, strong women, and sexy alphas who have a softer side - especially for their women.
Want to learn more about J. Saman? You can check out her website http://jsamanbooks.com
To receive a free copy of one of my books, subscribe to my newsletter:
SUBSCRIBE
You can also follow her on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
TWITTER
J. is an admitted lover of second chance romances, enemies to lovers, and the perfect amount of angst. She is best known for writing funny and emotional romances filled with smart, strong women, and sexy alphas who have a softer side - especially for their women.
Want to learn more about J. Saman? You can check out her website http://jsamanbooks.com
To receive a free copy of one of my books, subscribe to my newsletter:
SUBSCRIBE
You can also follow her on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 23, 2017
“They” say there is someone out there who is perfect for everyone one of us. “They” forgot to mention it might take nothing short of a miracle, a keen sense of timing and the patience of a saint for Cupid (and everyone else) for two people to finally take a chance on love, but that journey is one that J. Saman has made a MUST READ for anyone who loves to watch Fate and the Inevitable carve out a great big heart with a smirky face inside. (And was that Cupid saying, "I told you so?")
START WITH ME is a light romance lover’s dream as Claire and Kyle meet and dance around the elephant in the room dressed in hearts and flowers. Maybe because that isn’t their style? Maybe because they let their pasts and their own monsters in the closet get the best of them? Maybe because Claire would rather avoid any type of closeness than expose her underbelly to another? Maybe because Kyle had his own “secrets” and a fear that his past could end any chance for happiness at any moment?
J. Saman has created a fun romance with highs that are very high and some lows that are painful, but become part of the less than stellar cards that life has dealt, NOT dwelling on some terribly negative issues. This is a love story that simmers in all of its contemporary glory, filled with humor, heart and the one man who can tame the beast that torments Claire. Start to finish and on every page in between, Kyle and Claire’s story is one for the “gotta read it again when I need a smile” pile!
Claire is feisty, giving, and loyal while she hides behind the façade of a wild woman with a revolving door dating schedule. Kyle is determined to own the path he has chosen in life, but isn’t afraid that he has found “the one” to take a chance on, although Claire may just terrify him just a little, because how could she be so right, when to mention it could get him punched in the throat? Can Kyle tame the beast in Claire? Can he show her that the future is a clean slate and theirs to write on? Does he really believe that himself?
Leave it to J. Saman to have me grinning like a Chesire cat, talking out loud and rolling my eyes all for love! *Reviewer’s note: I was reading in a VERY quiet, very filled, waiting room when this happened… ;)*
I received an ARC edition from J. Saman! :)
Series: Start Again - Book 3
Publication Date: October 16, 2017
Publisher: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance | Women's Fiction
Print Length: 274 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
START WITH ME is a light romance lover’s dream as Claire and Kyle meet and dance around the elephant in the room dressed in hearts and flowers. Maybe because that isn’t their style? Maybe because they let their pasts and their own monsters in the closet get the best of them? Maybe because Claire would rather avoid any type of closeness than expose her underbelly to another? Maybe because Kyle had his own “secrets” and a fear that his past could end any chance for happiness at any moment?
J. Saman has created a fun romance with highs that are very high and some lows that are painful, but become part of the less than stellar cards that life has dealt, NOT dwelling on some terribly negative issues. This is a love story that simmers in all of its contemporary glory, filled with humor, heart and the one man who can tame the beast that torments Claire. Start to finish and on every page in between, Kyle and Claire’s story is one for the “gotta read it again when I need a smile” pile!
Claire is feisty, giving, and loyal while she hides behind the façade of a wild woman with a revolving door dating schedule. Kyle is determined to own the path he has chosen in life, but isn’t afraid that he has found “the one” to take a chance on, although Claire may just terrify him just a little, because how could she be so right, when to mention it could get him punched in the throat? Can Kyle tame the beast in Claire? Can he show her that the future is a clean slate and theirs to write on? Does he really believe that himself?
Leave it to J. Saman to have me grinning like a Chesire cat, talking out loud and rolling my eyes all for love! *Reviewer’s note: I was reading in a VERY quiet, very filled, waiting room when this happened… ;)*
I received an ARC edition from J. Saman! :)
Series: Start Again - Book 3
Publication Date: October 16, 2017
Publisher: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance | Women's Fiction
Print Length: 274 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Read
December 19, 2018Dnf
I'm done with this series.
Not safe
Annoying MCs
No rating
I'm done with this series.
Not safe
Annoying MCs
No rating
August 21, 2017
Release date: 10/16/17
Between this book and I Temporarily Do: A Romantic Comedy, I feel like I've stumbled on a new subgenre of romance. What is it, you ask? Books that don't rely on the shitty personalities of its characters to drive the plot. It needs a witty one-word name but I can't think of one. I'm not trying to bash books with angry alpha men that slowly learn love and trust and all that, I love those. A lot. I'm just saying how pleasantly surprised I am to find shmexy, far from clean romances with really likable characters. I loved this book and the characters in it.
So the book starts with Kyle meeting Claire at his brother's wedding. Claire is his brother's assistant. She does more than that, but that's what she is technically and is really good friends with him as well. She doesn't do romance/long-term relationships so she automatically makes it clear that she wants to be friends with Kyle. Good friends. The best of friends. That in and of itself was refreshing. Her choice to keep her relationship with Kyle strictly platonic wasn't used as a way to make Kyle want her more. Whether it is the H or the h, I get really tired of the whole "Chase me harder because I don't want to be caught. But secretly I do", thing. Or, as Claire puts it:
"They see me as a challenge. Some sort of redheaded conquest, like they're the who will reel me in and show me just what I've been missing all this time. Like all I'm really looking for from them is to be saved.
I'm not."
Kyle also realizes the stupidity of messing around with his brother's good friend/employee. So they become friends. Long distance friends in fact because they live in different states. Kyle is a high-profile lawyer who defends shady people, including mobsters, and is good enough at his job that he easily wins his cases. Eventually, he realizes that what he does is damn near as shady as the people he represents and wants nothing to do with it anymore. He takes his brother up on his offer to move to Seattle and work as his company's lawyer. Now he and Claire work together and they become even better friends. Claire maintains her anti-relationship stance but finds it increasingly difficult with Kyle around. BUT. She has her reasons. Not "I don't believe in romance. Love is stupid and doesn't exist" reasons, but actual reasons. Anyways, the rest of the book is about what happens when two people are best friends and happen to be super duper attracted to one another. Two nice people that want the best for each other, want each other, but have to consider the possibility that it just might not work.
I've never really felt like I had so much in common with a character as I did with Claire. I completely understood her motives, the way her mind worked, and her reasons. What I liked about her the most was the completely unreasonable way her mind worked and the fact that she knew damn good and well that she was off her nut. I find that very important. I don't mind characters making stupid decisions. Just don't pass it off as reasonable and/or acceptable. I think there is a difference between TSTL and occasionally making bad decisions. Claire recognized her own stupidity and took action to fix it. She was introspective enough to realize that they way she was living wasn't making her happy and had enough brain cells to think to herself Hm, maybe I should work on this Maybe, just maybe, I should put my big girl panties on and fix some stuff.
What a concept.
Kyle was dreamy. Yum. He was everything you love in H but for some weird reason, he wanted to be in a serious relationship and make Claire happy. Is this a thing? I had to do a double-take as I was reading because it just felt so foreign to read a book with a H that so quickly made peace with the fact that he wanted the h and would do whatever he could to make it work. No subterfuge. No manipulation. No secret intentions. There really wasn't anything that dramatic about it. Maybe that is what was so dramatic about it. The contemporary romances I read tend to be filled with men rebelling against the idea of committing or even admitting any kind of warm and fuzzies you know, because reasons. I'm not saying that I've never ever in all of the bajillion books I've read has there never been a H like this, I'm just saying that I found it unusual enough that it really stuck out to me. It was refreshing. He has his own issues to work on, and does.
There's action towards the 60% mark that kind of came out of nowhere, but I liked it. Just enough to keep you on your toes.
The writing was wonderful. It was that special kind of wonderful that makes you forget to even think about the writing quality. The characters spoke like real people, but more than that, like people I know. They acted like people I know. It flowed and never really felt overdone. The characters were witty and there was great banter without it sounding like a scene from Juno.
If I had one issue it would be with the way Claire's issue was resolved. Her willingness to commit to Kyle was dependent on certain circumstances and part of me wished that she would have chosen him regardless of the consequences. It felt less like "love always wins" and more like "if the circumstances are in your favor, then it might work". I know that this entire review has been me waxing poetic about how real this book felt, but I found the overly realistic way the HEA happened little underwhelming. I'm contradicting myself I know, but whatever. Leave me alone, geez.
In conclusion friends, good book. Great book. I enjoyed it. I recommend it if you enjoy contemporary romance.
*I received an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Between this book and I Temporarily Do: A Romantic Comedy, I feel like I've stumbled on a new subgenre of romance. What is it, you ask? Books that don't rely on the shitty personalities of its characters to drive the plot. It needs a witty one-word name but I can't think of one. I'm not trying to bash books with angry alpha men that slowly learn love and trust and all that, I love those. A lot. I'm just saying how pleasantly surprised I am to find shmexy, far from clean romances with really likable characters. I loved this book and the characters in it.
So the book starts with Kyle meeting Claire at his brother's wedding. Claire is his brother's assistant. She does more than that, but that's what she is technically and is really good friends with him as well. She doesn't do romance/long-term relationships so she automatically makes it clear that she wants to be friends with Kyle. Good friends. The best of friends. That in and of itself was refreshing. Her choice to keep her relationship with Kyle strictly platonic wasn't used as a way to make Kyle want her more. Whether it is the H or the h, I get really tired of the whole "Chase me harder because I don't want to be caught. But secretly I do", thing. Or, as Claire puts it:
"They see me as a challenge. Some sort of redheaded conquest, like they're the who will reel me in and show me just what I've been missing all this time. Like all I'm really looking for from them is to be saved.
I'm not."
Kyle also realizes the stupidity of messing around with his brother's good friend/employee. So they become friends. Long distance friends in fact because they live in different states. Kyle is a high-profile lawyer who defends shady people, including mobsters, and is good enough at his job that he easily wins his cases. Eventually, he realizes that what he does is damn near as shady as the people he represents and wants nothing to do with it anymore. He takes his brother up on his offer to move to Seattle and work as his company's lawyer. Now he and Claire work together and they become even better friends. Claire maintains her anti-relationship stance but finds it increasingly difficult with Kyle around. BUT. She has her reasons. Not "I don't believe in romance. Love is stupid and doesn't exist" reasons, but actual reasons. Anyways, the rest of the book is about what happens when two people are best friends and happen to be super duper attracted to one another. Two nice people that want the best for each other, want each other, but have to consider the possibility that it just might not work.
I've never really felt like I had so much in common with a character as I did with Claire. I completely understood her motives, the way her mind worked, and her reasons. What I liked about her the most was the completely unreasonable way her mind worked and the fact that she knew damn good and well that she was off her nut. I find that very important. I don't mind characters making stupid decisions. Just don't pass it off as reasonable and/or acceptable. I think there is a difference between TSTL and occasionally making bad decisions. Claire recognized her own stupidity and took action to fix it. She was introspective enough to realize that they way she was living wasn't making her happy and had enough brain cells to think to herself Hm, maybe I should work on this Maybe, just maybe, I should put my big girl panties on and fix some stuff.
What a concept.
Kyle was dreamy. Yum. He was everything you love in H but for some weird reason, he wanted to be in a serious relationship and make Claire happy. Is this a thing? I had to do a double-take as I was reading because it just felt so foreign to read a book with a H that so quickly made peace with the fact that he wanted the h and would do whatever he could to make it work. No subterfuge. No manipulation. No secret intentions. There really wasn't anything that dramatic about it. Maybe that is what was so dramatic about it. The contemporary romances I read tend to be filled with men rebelling against the idea of committing or even admitting any kind of warm and fuzzies you know, because reasons. I'm not saying that I've never ever in all of the bajillion books I've read has there never been a H like this, I'm just saying that I found it unusual enough that it really stuck out to me. It was refreshing. He has his own issues to work on, and does.
There's action towards the 60% mark that kind of came out of nowhere, but I liked it. Just enough to keep you on your toes.
The writing was wonderful. It was that special kind of wonderful that makes you forget to even think about the writing quality. The characters spoke like real people, but more than that, like people I know. They acted like people I know. It flowed and never really felt overdone. The characters were witty and there was great banter without it sounding like a scene from Juno.
If I had one issue it would be with the way Claire's issue was resolved. Her willingness to commit to Kyle was dependent on certain circumstances and part of me wished that she would have chosen him regardless of the consequences. It felt less like "love always wins" and more like "if the circumstances are in your favor, then it might work". I know that this entire review has been me waxing poetic about how real this book felt, but I found the overly realistic way the HEA happened little underwhelming. I'm contradicting myself I know, but whatever. Leave me alone, geez.
In conclusion friends, good book. Great book. I enjoyed it. I recommend it if you enjoy contemporary romance.
*I received an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 20, 2020
This is the 3rd - and final : ( - book in the Start Again series. It can be read as a standalone.
Pre-Order HERE for only $0.99!
Release Date 10/16/17!
Pre-Order HERE for only $0.99!
Release Date 10/16/17!
October 17, 2017
*This book was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads*
Title: Start With Me (Start Again #3)
Author: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: 4/5
This is the third instalment in the Start Again series but works as well as a stand-alone, it focuses on Claire a sassy, feisty redhead and Kyle who’s a sexy hotshot lawyer, they start of as friends and with distance being an issue between them they have a phone /text relationship but as things progresses they find themselves falling in love.
If you’re a fan of contemporary romance then this is a must read both protagonists have their secrets, it’s a heartbreaking yet heartwarming tale. J. Saman has done a brilliant job with this book, a well written storyline with likeable and believable characters that will keep you entertained from start to finish.
Title: Start With Me (Start Again #3)
Author: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: 4/5
This is the third instalment in the Start Again series but works as well as a stand-alone, it focuses on Claire a sassy, feisty redhead and Kyle who’s a sexy hotshot lawyer, they start of as friends and with distance being an issue between them they have a phone /text relationship but as things progresses they find themselves falling in love.
If you’re a fan of contemporary romance then this is a must read both protagonists have their secrets, it’s a heartbreaking yet heartwarming tale. J. Saman has done a brilliant job with this book, a well written storyline with likeable and believable characters that will keep you entertained from start to finish.
October 11, 2017
Claire uses confidence, wit and snark to cover a lifetime of pain and damage that began with her parents’ mistake that resulted in her birth. At the wedding of her good friend and boss, Ryan, she meets his brother, Kyle, and they become long distance BFF’s once Kyle leaves Seattle and returns to New York. But when Kyle moves to Seattle, neither one knows what to do with their growing feelings that go far beyond friendly. Friendship can be a great way to begin a romance, but with the secrets they’re both harboring and the walls erected, it looks like a romantic relationship between Claire and Kyle is over before it even begins.
The advance copy I read of this book is my first by this author, and I’m so glad I found her! It’s always a treat to read a well researched, well plotted, well written and well edited book, and this book has all those components plus loads of heart and emotion. Ms. Saman sucks you in with characters that are unique, complex and beautifully damaged but with great potential for redemption, and these characters were amazing! Claire is strong, smart, independent, and has overcome great adversity, yet she still has something hanging over her head that prevents her from forming any romantic attachments. She’s actually quite the contradiction, being so strong and brave in most of her life yet letting fear rule and paralyze her, and when her feelings for Kyle change, it’s that old, familiar, protective fear that drives her choices. Kyle is funny, patient and compassionate, with a heart of gold, and has overcome his share of challenges in life, but his approach is different, making sure to not let the past dictate his future.
While evocative, frustrating and beautiful, Claire’s and Kyle’s journey to happily ever after is one of contrasts and a great reminder that overcoming life’s trials is much more about our response and attitude towards those trials than the actual trials themselves. As you follow them through their ups and downs, it will feel much more realistic than being a simple spectator while you experience their wide array of emotions. Buckle in and plan on staying up late. This riveting, angsty ride will grab hold of you on the first page and hang on to you long after the last, leaving you with a bruised heart, book hangover, and a happy, satisfied sigh. With top-notch writing, a compelling plot, and perfectly flawed and endearing characters, this book will linger in your heart long after the bittersweet end and is an absolute must read!
The advance copy I read of this book is my first by this author, and I’m so glad I found her! It’s always a treat to read a well researched, well plotted, well written and well edited book, and this book has all those components plus loads of heart and emotion. Ms. Saman sucks you in with characters that are unique, complex and beautifully damaged but with great potential for redemption, and these characters were amazing! Claire is strong, smart, independent, and has overcome great adversity, yet she still has something hanging over her head that prevents her from forming any romantic attachments. She’s actually quite the contradiction, being so strong and brave in most of her life yet letting fear rule and paralyze her, and when her feelings for Kyle change, it’s that old, familiar, protective fear that drives her choices. Kyle is funny, patient and compassionate, with a heart of gold, and has overcome his share of challenges in life, but his approach is different, making sure to not let the past dictate his future.
While evocative, frustrating and beautiful, Claire’s and Kyle’s journey to happily ever after is one of contrasts and a great reminder that overcoming life’s trials is much more about our response and attitude towards those trials than the actual trials themselves. As you follow them through their ups and downs, it will feel much more realistic than being a simple spectator while you experience their wide array of emotions. Buckle in and plan on staying up late. This riveting, angsty ride will grab hold of you on the first page and hang on to you long after the last, leaving you with a bruised heart, book hangover, and a happy, satisfied sigh. With top-notch writing, a compelling plot, and perfectly flawed and endearing characters, this book will linger in your heart long after the bittersweet end and is an absolute must read!
December 7, 2017
When I read the blurb for this book, I thought it was going to be one of those books where the woman is perfectly happy not being in a relationship and doesn't need one to be happy, but then some dude sweeps in who won't take no for an answer and eventually wears her down. I'm actually one of those women who doesn't need a relationship to be happy.
This book is way more than that and a lot more complex. Claire has a perfectly reasonable reason for not doing relationships and Kyle is neither pushy, nor aggressive. There is a range of complex emotions that both characters go through as the book progresses and different twists in the plot that really go for your gut.
I could see I only had about 5% left in the book and a new twist comes in. I'm staring at my kindle like DON'T YOU DARE PUT ME OR THESE CHARACTERS THROUGH THIS! Let's just say that chapter and several others were nail biters until I got to the end
This book is way more than that and a lot more complex. Claire has a perfectly reasonable reason for not doing relationships and Kyle is neither pushy, nor aggressive. There is a range of complex emotions that both characters go through as the book progresses and different twists in the plot that really go for your gut.
I could see I only had about 5% left in the book and a new twist comes in. I'm staring at my kindle like DON'T YOU DARE PUT ME OR THESE CHARACTERS THROUGH THIS! Let's just say that chapter and several others were nail biters until I got to the end
September 4, 2017
“Because there are no guarantees.
No promises on time.
There is only this moment.
And this moment now belongs to me.”
As I said before, J. SAMAN is one of my fav authors, cause you know, she never, like never fails me make me fall in love with her.
I just always go fan-girl over her books with her and she’s always there for me. I swear she’s the sweetest author i've ever met :)
Start with me is the third book of Start again series. Each one of these books can be read as a standalone. Start again talks about Ryan and Kate; Start over talks about Luke and Ivy; Start with me talks about Kyle and Claire.
These six, are the definition of friendship, family and love beyond words. I felt so much love reading about each one of them. And I actually I wait all day for the moment that I can pick up my book and dive in with them and feel all their emotions. It was intense, moving!
We all read about the bad boy who won’t settle down because he’s fighting his own demons, eh?
Well this one the girl Is the player. LOL! Claire is the definition of fun, she’s crazy and give no shit about people’s opinion. She has no filter over her mouth, so every time she talks, im dying of laughter.
"I feel like one of those cartoon characters helplessly following the scent of something yummy when I’m near him."
Kyle, the sexy lawyer, who lives in New York. He really can’t be with Claire, for a starter she don’t do relationships, does she?
He was so freakin handsome and sexy, that Kate and Ivy were drowling over him, like OMG? (kate
and Ivy are taken, so you get where im going?
“He pushes off the wall with his foot, standing tall and gorgeous over me. My eyes glide up until they meet his and for the life of me, I can’t stop my smile. Neither can he. So, we stand there, smiling at each other with high school giddiness mixed with very grownup lust swimming between us.”
The book doesn’t talk about a short period of their life. It takes us to a lot of scenes and periods of their life, so you can see the characters’ development and how life changes them. Julie writes this scenes so smoothly that leaves you wanting an Epilogue to the Epilogue.
““It’s nothing. It’s fine.” Ryan spins back around, walks the three steps to the marble counter and downs half my glass of wine. Yeah. Sure. Nothing. And if I continue to eat cherry Danish for breakfast every morning, my ass won’t spread”
And HEV guys!! Yeah her books always have HEV. So her books are like super good, with sexy alpha males, and a perfect ending. Can anything get better? What does a bookworm wants more than that? NOTHING. This is the ABSOLUTE SATISFACTION, GUYS!
“It’s one of those laughs that light up her whole face, and you can’t help but join in because it’s just that infectious.”
No promises on time.
There is only this moment.
And this moment now belongs to me.”
As I said before, J. SAMAN is one of my fav authors, cause you know, she never, like never fails me make me fall in love with her.
I just always go fan-girl over her books with her and she’s always there for me. I swear she’s the sweetest author i've ever met :)
Start with me is the third book of Start again series. Each one of these books can be read as a standalone. Start again talks about Ryan and Kate; Start over talks about Luke and Ivy; Start with me talks about Kyle and Claire.
These six, are the definition of friendship, family and love beyond words. I felt so much love reading about each one of them. And I actually I wait all day for the moment that I can pick up my book and dive in with them and feel all their emotions. It was intense, moving!
We all read about the bad boy who won’t settle down because he’s fighting his own demons, eh?
Well this one the girl Is the player. LOL! Claire is the definition of fun, she’s crazy and give no shit about people’s opinion. She has no filter over her mouth, so every time she talks, im dying of laughter.
"I feel like one of those cartoon characters helplessly following the scent of something yummy when I’m near him."
Kyle, the sexy lawyer, who lives in New York. He really can’t be with Claire, for a starter she don’t do relationships, does she?
He was so freakin handsome and sexy, that Kate and Ivy were drowling over him, like OMG? (kate
and Ivy are taken, so you get where im going?
“He pushes off the wall with his foot, standing tall and gorgeous over me. My eyes glide up until they meet his and for the life of me, I can’t stop my smile. Neither can he. So, we stand there, smiling at each other with high school giddiness mixed with very grownup lust swimming between us.”
The book doesn’t talk about a short period of their life. It takes us to a lot of scenes and periods of their life, so you can see the characters’ development and how life changes them. Julie writes this scenes so smoothly that leaves you wanting an Epilogue to the Epilogue.
““It’s nothing. It’s fine.” Ryan spins back around, walks the three steps to the marble counter and downs half my glass of wine. Yeah. Sure. Nothing. And if I continue to eat cherry Danish for breakfast every morning, my ass won’t spread”
And HEV guys!! Yeah her books always have HEV. So her books are like super good, with sexy alpha males, and a perfect ending. Can anything get better? What does a bookworm wants more than that? NOTHING. This is the ABSOLUTE SATISFACTION, GUYS!
“It’s one of those laughs that light up her whole face, and you can’t help but join in because it’s just that infectious.”
October 12, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. This is the first one in the series that I read and I did not feel that I missed out on anything, except probably two other great reads, but not reading them first.
J. Saman gives the reader two wonderful characters - Kyle and Claire. As I began reading I could absolutely picture these two at the wedding and knew that they would be friends. I loved how they built a friendship long distance and that they truly found a "soulmate" friend through these communications.
I loved Claire's character and he take no prisoners attitude. She is blunt and states her mind but is fiercely loyal to her friends and would do anything for them. While everyone seems to know her there are still secrets she keeps.
Kyle is Claire male counterpart. He is unapologetic that his chosen field may get a "bad" person off but he believes everyone deserves the best representation. When his world is rocked he moves across country to be the lawyer for his brother's company. Kyle can see that Claire is hiding something but she will give him no clue.
Kyle and Claire are two of a kind and it was inevitable that they get together if they could only get out of their own way. You will find yourself wanting to smack one of them, usually Claire, more than once throughout the book.
This story also shows how our family doesn't necessarily need to be the one we are born into but can be those we choose as friends.
I highly recommend reading this book it was a joy to read and you will loose yourself in Kyle and Claire's world. I will be going back and reading the first two books.
I was given this book for an honest and voluntary review.
J. Saman gives the reader two wonderful characters - Kyle and Claire. As I began reading I could absolutely picture these two at the wedding and knew that they would be friends. I loved how they built a friendship long distance and that they truly found a "soulmate" friend through these communications.
I loved Claire's character and he take no prisoners attitude. She is blunt and states her mind but is fiercely loyal to her friends and would do anything for them. While everyone seems to know her there are still secrets she keeps.
Kyle is Claire male counterpart. He is unapologetic that his chosen field may get a "bad" person off but he believes everyone deserves the best representation. When his world is rocked he moves across country to be the lawyer for his brother's company. Kyle can see that Claire is hiding something but she will give him no clue.
Kyle and Claire are two of a kind and it was inevitable that they get together if they could only get out of their own way. You will find yourself wanting to smack one of them, usually Claire, more than once throughout the book.
This story also shows how our family doesn't necessarily need to be the one we are born into but can be those we choose as friends.
I highly recommend reading this book it was a joy to read and you will loose yourself in Kyle and Claire's world. I will be going back and reading the first two books.
I was given this book for an honest and voluntary review.
August 20, 2017
J. Saman writes beautiful, complicated, strong women and the men who will do anything to be their safe space and this latest offering is no different. Claire and Kyle sizzle in Start With Me but their chemistry goes so much deeper than the physical and that makes their story gratifying on so many levels. I loved the fact that they don't even hook up until they've developed a close, symbiotic friendship. But they noth have tbeir demons and although you know they'll get through them it's hardly apparent just how it can possibly happen. The result? A page turner so full of heart and gripping emotions you'll feel like their personal cheerleader by the time the story ends. An added bonus is Saman's trademark humor and snappy, snarky dialogue. The characters sound like me and my friends, they react the way real people react to situations and that makes it easy to slip seamlessly into the narrative. The writing is crisp and highlights the fact that the author has clearly hit her stride. Last but not least three cheers for the strong friendships between the characters, especially the women. No cheap catfights or nasty competition anywhere in sight - refreshing and mature! J. Saman is an auto-read for me and this stand-alone romance in her series will hopefully be followed by many, many more.
September 25, 2017
This was a perfect tale of two friends that get to know each other very well. Claire and Kyle meet through mutual friends and family. They get along and have similar personalities. I loved the banter between them. J. does such a good job of keeping us up to date with their friendship until they are actually in the same city. Once that happens then things start to progress for this friendship. Claire doesn’t do relationships and Kyle wouldn’t mind if his job would stop getting in the way.
The building of and destruction of their relationship will keep your heart pounding until the end. I loved the details you get with their thoughts. You are given every detail to why Claire feels they shouldn’t be together. You get the heart and soul of Kyle. I loved the other characters and the relationship with them. I loved the progression of everyone’s futures told in this series ender.
The building of and destruction of their relationship will keep your heart pounding until the end. I loved the details you get with their thoughts. You are given every detail to why Claire feels they shouldn’t be together. You get the heart and soul of Kyle. I loved the other characters and the relationship with them. I loved the progression of everyone’s futures told in this series ender.
September 3, 2017
This was my favorite book in the Start Again series, and it's definitely one of my favorite books of 2017! I really loved Claire in this story and her struggle between wanting to follow her heart and the secret she keeps from everyone she knows. Kyle is one of my favorite heroes of all time, and I love how he deals with his own personal struggle with illness.
I was rooting for Claire and Kyle to get together, and I couldn't stop reading until I made sure they got their HEA. It was at times funny, at times romantic, and sometimes heartbreaking. These two are such a great couple and a wonderful way to end the series. (Although I greedily hope there will be a fourth!)
Pick up a copy of Start With Me and you won't be able to put it down!
I was rooting for Claire and Kyle to get together, and I couldn't stop reading until I made sure they got their HEA. It was at times funny, at times romantic, and sometimes heartbreaking. These two are such a great couple and a wonderful way to end the series. (Although I greedily hope there will be a fourth!)
Pick up a copy of Start With Me and you won't be able to put it down!
September 3, 2017
This was so sweet. The chemistry between Kyle and Claire was outstanding but the build up was so sweet. This was a great book from the start, I loved the humor with the brothers and just loved all the characters in the story. Definitely recommend it. I received an advanced copy for an honest review.
September 6, 2017
This is part of the Start Again series. Claire and Kyle have been best friends forever. She works for his brother in Seattle and he's an attorney in NYC. Claire wasn't into relationships and they lived on opposite sides of the Country. But their chemistry was undeniable and eventually won out. A great read. I received an advance copy and voluntarily chose to review it.
September 25, 2017
I received this book for a voluntary, completely honest and non incentivized review. This is my first read by J. Saman and it won't be my last. Since I read book 3 in the series first, I felt like I was missing something with regards to Ryan and Luke. But it didn't take away from Kyle and Claire's story. It's passionate, frustrating, heartbreaking and heartwarming.
October 16, 2017
There are days that I feel so down that I just want to curl up in my bed and forget the world outside. But there are others that I really want to hit myself for thinking like that. The biggest reason that I can feel better are the tons of books waiting for me on my Kindle. Let's just say that my TBR is freaking huge.
And now I have the chance to meet a new author and I feel even more happy.
J. Saman is a new author to me and let's just say that I couldn't put the book down once I started it. Her writing is simple, hot and fun.
Start With Me is her latest release and tells the stories of Kyle and Claire.
Claire is a feisty woman that wants to do her job the best she can and stick with her best friends to feel her life complete. She don't do relationships because they are messy and will bring you heartache.
Something in Kyle attract her but she will not pursue it, or so she thinks.
Kyle is a lawyer that lives in New York. At his brother's wedding he meets the stunning Claire and something in him awakens but what will he do.
They become instant friends and continue to chat since they live to far from each other.
And that's it... I'm not saying another word.
I wasn't expecting this at all and I was beyond happy to read a book like this one.
You know that type of boy meets girl and they instantly hook up?? Well this book is so much better. The friendship is way more important than lust.
The plot is magnificent and the interaction between the characters is beautiful, sweet and so intense. You will fall in love with them.
I simply adore a book that can capture my attention from the first page. I'm sad that I haven't read the first two books from this series but I'll get time to do so.
Amazing book J. Saman. Can't wait for more.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
And now I have the chance to meet a new author and I feel even more happy.
J. Saman is a new author to me and let's just say that I couldn't put the book down once I started it. Her writing is simple, hot and fun.
Start With Me is her latest release and tells the stories of Kyle and Claire.
Claire is a feisty woman that wants to do her job the best she can and stick with her best friends to feel her life complete. She don't do relationships because they are messy and will bring you heartache.
Something in Kyle attract her but she will not pursue it, or so she thinks.
Kyle is a lawyer that lives in New York. At his brother's wedding he meets the stunning Claire and something in him awakens but what will he do.
They become instant friends and continue to chat since they live to far from each other.
And that's it... I'm not saying another word.
I wasn't expecting this at all and I was beyond happy to read a book like this one.
You know that type of boy meets girl and they instantly hook up?? Well this book is so much better. The friendship is way more important than lust.
The plot is magnificent and the interaction between the characters is beautiful, sweet and so intense. You will fall in love with them.
I simply adore a book that can capture my attention from the first page. I'm sad that I haven't read the first two books from this series but I'll get time to do so.
Amazing book J. Saman. Can't wait for more.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 16, 2017
Kyle Grant has met his match and her name is Claire Sullivan. Claire seems to be an all-around Girl Friday. This is a case where instant connection was inevitable. Claire just seemed to have something that Kyle needed in his life. But at times I felt as if Claire was a little unsure of herself – a small fish swimming in a big pond. All that seemed to disappear when she was around Kyle. Questions seem to come up that has me so immersed in the story that I almost forget everything around me.
This author has done a great job of creating a world that we are allowed be a part of. She creates characters that may seem like old friends. You want everyone to be healthy and happy but that’s not how the world works and the same goes here. This book has the perfect title which may have more than one meaning. For me it was discovering a new author whose book was telling me to Start With Me. She also draws me into the life of her secondary characters, Ryan and Katie. Their story also has the perfect title, Start Again, because this tells me start the series from the beginning so that I can get to know them as well. The only hint to the coming end of this story that I’ll give you is that it’s really serious than on a dime it turns seriously funny. I loved it from beginning to end. One thing I can tell you for certain is to make sure to read the “end of book note” – it’s a little bittersweet.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
This author has done a great job of creating a world that we are allowed be a part of. She creates characters that may seem like old friends. You want everyone to be healthy and happy but that’s not how the world works and the same goes here. This book has the perfect title which may have more than one meaning. For me it was discovering a new author whose book was telling me to Start With Me. She also draws me into the life of her secondary characters, Ryan and Katie. Their story also has the perfect title, Start Again, because this tells me start the series from the beginning so that I can get to know them as well. The only hint to the coming end of this story that I’ll give you is that it’s really serious than on a dime it turns seriously funny. I loved it from beginning to end. One thing I can tell you for certain is to make sure to read the “end of book note” – it’s a little bittersweet.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 16, 2017
The Start Again series is another fantastic party that I showed up fashionably late to, and I want to kick myself. Claire is a super sexy young woman who has a few simple rules, no relationships and/or falling in love. And it's been working for her until Kyle Grant walks into her life. So she instantly friend zones the man who looks like a GQ model, to keep her heart safe. Kyle has wanted Claire since the second he set eyes on her, but never acted on it because she's his brother's assistant, and Claire has never failed to remind him that they are just BFFs. But the closer they get, the more the BFF line becomes blurry, so can he convince her to give him a chance? WOW! Claire was a great heroine that kept me laughing a lot, although her stubbornness had me wanting to shake her a time or two. And Kyle was yumminess galore, while truly being a nice guy. Together, their sparks lit up the skies coast to coast. With all of their yummy sparks/sexy times, the entertaining cast of secondaries only added more humor & depth to this great story. And while I loved the witty banter, there was a twist or two that not only made me drop loud f-bombs, but also had the leaky eyes gearing up to be inconvenient. J. Saman has a very addictive, and talented writing style that I will need more of ASAP, as her world was a great world to be immersed in, while very hard to say goodbye to at the very end. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
October 19, 2017
Kyle isn't sure what he got himself into when he meets Claire at his brother's wedding. Claire deems them bff's from the start. That should be easy for Kyle since they live on different sides of the country. That is until his circumstances change and he has a chance at a relationship with Claire.
Claire seems to fit in everywhere, making friends quickly comes easy for her. What doesn't come easy is relationships. After a less than loving childhood, Claire is better at one night stands than trying to make a relationship work. That is why her friendship with Kyle is perfect. Until, he shows up in Seattle, can she keep her walls up and keep him out?
I loved Start With Me! It was an easy read despite having some sad moments. Claire is funny and strong. She gives all the boys a run for their money. Her nicknames for people and her wit made me laugh out loud more than once. Kyle was a great match for Claire. I loved their friendship and their banter. I did read Start With Me as a standalone and didn't feel like I missed anything. However, Start With Me makes me want to go back and read the first two :)
5 Stars for Start With Me!
Claire seems to fit in everywhere, making friends quickly comes easy for her. What doesn't come easy is relationships. After a less than loving childhood, Claire is better at one night stands than trying to make a relationship work. That is why her friendship with Kyle is perfect. Until, he shows up in Seattle, can she keep her walls up and keep him out?
I loved Start With Me! It was an easy read despite having some sad moments. Claire is funny and strong. She gives all the boys a run for their money. Her nicknames for people and her wit made me laugh out loud more than once. Kyle was a great match for Claire. I loved their friendship and their banter. I did read Start With Me as a standalone and didn't feel like I missed anything. However, Start With Me makes me want to go back and read the first two :)
5 Stars for Start With Me!
October 16, 2017
5+ Stars
This isn't my first book by J Saman, and as much as I enjoyed book one of the series, Start Again, I think this is my new favourite.
I have a serious girl crush on Clair, that girl is so filterless and quick witted that I just couldn't help loving her. Her nicknames and odd curses made me laugh but her vulnerabilities had me in a tear stained heap. Kyle...what can I say about Kyle? He melts my heart and stops my breath. He is adorable and perfect and just...*sigh. I love him.
The drama is top notch and the feeling and doubts these two have are real and hurt my heart.
So many times these characters made me stop reading, just take a breath and compose myself, wipe away my tears and carry on. I have gritty eyes and a smile on my face at 2:30am; I just wasn't able to put my kindle down until I finished.
What a beautiful story and a must read for me.
This isn't my first book by J Saman, and as much as I enjoyed book one of the series, Start Again, I think this is my new favourite.
I have a serious girl crush on Clair, that girl is so filterless and quick witted that I just couldn't help loving her. Her nicknames and odd curses made me laugh but her vulnerabilities had me in a tear stained heap. Kyle...what can I say about Kyle? He melts my heart and stops my breath. He is adorable and perfect and just...*sigh. I love him.
The drama is top notch and the feeling and doubts these two have are real and hurt my heart.
So many times these characters made me stop reading, just take a breath and compose myself, wipe away my tears and carry on. I have gritty eyes and a smile on my face at 2:30am; I just wasn't able to put my kindle down until I finished.
What a beautiful story and a must read for me.
October 16, 2017
This is the 3rd and final book in this awesome series, and is Claire and Kyle’s story. Claire is a feisty redhead, who lives her life to the fullest. Kyle is a male version of Claire, and is a hot shot lawyer. Distance is a major problem with these two to have a relationship, but as they begin their phone /text friendship, love steady grows between them. No spoilers; this is an absolute must read, you will not be disappointed!
This author has done a wonderful job in writing this story, and I love the depth of this storyline. This story has secrets, heartbreak, conflict and love. I highly recommend this talented author’s work for all readers!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book!
This author has done a wonderful job in writing this story, and I love the depth of this storyline. This story has secrets, heartbreak, conflict and love. I highly recommend this talented author’s work for all readers!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book!
October 17, 2017
Start With Me by J. Saman is Book Three in the "Start Again" series. This is the story of Claire and Kyle . This can be a standalone book.
Claire meets Kyle at a wedding where her friend and boss is getting married. Kyle is the brother of the Ryan and they hit it off quickly as good friends. Both Claire and Kyle have some issue to work through but their friendship grows until it becomes more than friendship.
This was a very sweet and easy read that I really enjoyed.
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Claire meets Kyle at a wedding where her friend and boss is getting married. Kyle is the brother of the Ryan and they hit it off quickly as good friends. Both Claire and Kyle have some issue to work through but their friendship grows until it becomes more than friendship.
This was a very sweet and easy read that I really enjoyed.
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https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
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October 17, 2017
A well written and interesting novel that's easy to read. The prologue is great and shows us a wonderful and perfect first meeting of our lovely (future) couple. Claire and Kyle are a good couple and have to deal with two important issues. For the seriousness of one of these it felt somehow too light, not quite appropriately handled. The plot is good but not quite rounded up. I liked reading this book and I really like the series. My favorite is still the first book because the plot was better developed and the fun took away the seriousness without making it too light. That's what I missed here but it's still good.
October 20, 2017
This is the third book I've read by J. I am so glad I found her and that she asked me to read an Advanced Copy! Here I am again, after finishing the third book in the series and again, I am just in awe of J. Her books have amazing character build ups. I am absolutely in love with Kyle. Ladies, how can just a name elicit feelings like Kyle elicits! So, WOW! J. has nailed it AGAIN! Another fantastic book! J., please don't let these characters end here. This series could definitely continue. I agree, not with the children. You Rocked Another One!!!!! Thank you!
October 18, 2017
An absolute must read!
I voluntarily am reviewing an Advanced Reader Copy of this book that I received through Shifted Sheets Book Promotions.
If you haven't read any of author J. Saman's books, I recomend to start with the Start Again Series. It's a read with depth and complex characters you'll fall in love with instantly. And the third book in the series is no exeption.
I voluntarily am reviewing an Advanced Reader Copy of this book that I received through Shifted Sheets Book Promotions.
If you haven't read any of author J. Saman's books, I recomend to start with the Start Again Series. It's a read with depth and complex characters you'll fall in love with instantly. And the third book in the series is no exeption.
November 22, 2017
Wonderful read!....4 stars!
I had a great time with this book. Kyle and Claire are quite the pair you’d never think of ending up together. Guys come and go in Claire’s life with no care in the world because she had a perfect reason for not getting involved seriously until Kyle shows up and becomes her best friend forever. Sweet romance with ups and downs and then some.
I had a great time with this book. Kyle and Claire are quite the pair you’d never think of ending up together. Guys come and go in Claire’s life with no care in the world because she had a perfect reason for not getting involved seriously until Kyle shows up and becomes her best friend forever. Sweet romance with ups and downs and then some.
October 20, 2017
Good Book
This was an Good Book. Going back to the first obe to read. The ending was Good too. Good Booj.
This was an Good Book. Going back to the first obe to read. The ending was Good too. Good Booj.
November 6, 2017
I absolutely LOVED EVERY WORD!! This is the first book that I have read by this author. I absolutely loved every word! Claire and Kyle were very easy to like and were very well developed. I really enjoyed every character and their close knit group that is truly the definition of family. This book really moved me. I became so invested in these characters. I will be adding the other books in this series to my TBR list.
I voluntarily am reviewing an Advanced Reader Copy of this book that I received through Shifted Sheets Book Promotions.
I voluntarily am reviewing an Advanced Reader Copy of this book that I received through Shifted Sheets Book Promotions.
January 8, 2020
4.4 stars
Definitely my favorite of this series. This author always does an amazing job at creating characters that feel real. I want them to be my friends. I hurt when the hurt and I love when they love.
Highly recommend this author.
Definitely my favorite of this series. This author always does an amazing job at creating characters that feel real. I want them to be my friends. I hurt when the hurt and I love when they love.
Highly recommend this author.
October 16, 2017
Happy release day to Start With me!!
I have always been a fan of J. Saman's writing and this was no exception. And so far, this book is my most favourite, and Kyle and Claire were also my favourite. The reason is that even though they knew they wanted each other, they became friends first, and got to know each other well enough to be in a relationship that withstood so many hardships. That was the best part of this couple in this book.
This is the first time that we see Kyle, and there is an instant love that you feel for him because he's badass and neatly dressed up in a suit. His personality is mostly just work, but there's just something so lovable about him. You can't hate this guy. If you want him to bail you out of jail in the middle of the night, he will look as amazing as he does bright and early in the day. The passion for his work, for Claire, for his family is overwhelming and I just love him.
Claire. Where do I begin with her?
Claire is amazing. She takes no shit from men who mean nothing to her. But the man who means everything to her will never give any shit because she is that kind of a person. She's headstrong and her heart is enclosed in a strong crystal sheath that is really hard to break into but our Kyle does it. He does it so with his love. I want to be Claire when I grow up.
Kyle and Claire's relationship, when they began as friends, is the cutest thing ever. They are casual but there's so much sexual tension between them sometimes. Their plight, in the beginning, was so pitiable, that I went, come on, give your tension a chance!
We see a lot of other things in this book, like Ryan's relationship with Claire. She is technically Ryan's assistant, but she's also like this little sister to him and Luke. It is amazing that she has them both and she is one lucky girl. Claire and Ryan's sudden nerdy outbursts were fantastic.
Kyle's relationship with Ryan was just as brilliant. But, they are related, and since they both have shitty parents, sticking up to each other at times of need is what they do best and I love them for it.
J. Saman has cleverly brought up two characters from her other standalone books. Abby Scofield from Love Rewritten and Tom from Forward. Now, this was a surprise. I love it when authors do this! They're so sneaky, but I'm glad she did this because Tom is one of my all-time favourite characters.
Rating: 5/5
Recommendation: If you are a contemporary nut like me, you need to read this book, along with the rest of the series.
I have always been a fan of J. Saman's writing and this was no exception. And so far, this book is my most favourite, and Kyle and Claire were also my favourite. The reason is that even though they knew they wanted each other, they became friends first, and got to know each other well enough to be in a relationship that withstood so many hardships. That was the best part of this couple in this book.
This is the first time that we see Kyle, and there is an instant love that you feel for him because he's badass and neatly dressed up in a suit. His personality is mostly just work, but there's just something so lovable about him. You can't hate this guy. If you want him to bail you out of jail in the middle of the night, he will look as amazing as he does bright and early in the day. The passion for his work, for Claire, for his family is overwhelming and I just love him.
Claire. Where do I begin with her?
Claire is amazing. She takes no shit from men who mean nothing to her. But the man who means everything to her will never give any shit because she is that kind of a person. She's headstrong and her heart is enclosed in a strong crystal sheath that is really hard to break into but our Kyle does it. He does it so with his love. I want to be Claire when I grow up.
Kyle and Claire's relationship, when they began as friends, is the cutest thing ever. They are casual but there's so much sexual tension between them sometimes. Their plight, in the beginning, was so pitiable, that I went, come on, give your tension a chance!
We see a lot of other things in this book, like Ryan's relationship with Claire. She is technically Ryan's assistant, but she's also like this little sister to him and Luke. It is amazing that she has them both and she is one lucky girl. Claire and Ryan's sudden nerdy outbursts were fantastic.
Kyle's relationship with Ryan was just as brilliant. But, they are related, and since they both have shitty parents, sticking up to each other at times of need is what they do best and I love them for it.
J. Saman has cleverly brought up two characters from her other standalone books. Abby Scofield from Love Rewritten and Tom from Forward. Now, this was a surprise. I love it when authors do this! They're so sneaky, but I'm glad she did this because Tom is one of my all-time favourite characters.
Rating: 5/5
Recommendation: If you are a contemporary nut like me, you need to read this book, along with the rest of the series.
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