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Playing for Love #1
Begin Again Again
A sexy and emotional Sports, Soulmate, Love at First sight romance from critically acclaimed author Eve Dangerfield.
Bethany Myers is looking for a fresh start. When the newly assertive and determined former #girlboss sees Byron Thomas, the hottest guy she has ever laid eyes on, she can’t help but catcall him on the street. But she never expects the former footballer to agree to a date with her, let alone give her the time of day.
Beth meets Byron for drinks, hoping for a scorching one-night stand—or at least to feel his biceps. What she finds rather, to her shock, is a meaningful connection that her heart and her soul can’t deny. He is her One and the man she can’t live without.
Byron is more than just a pretty face and a beautiful mind. But his heart has been broken and he still nurses scars from his past. Beth has sworn off wounded men, but she can’t stay away from this man and how he makes her feel. Will she be able to convince her One to take a chance on them and begin again?
"A breath of fresh air romance that cuts right through the haze." NYT Bestseller, Tessa Bailey
"Begin Again Again is yet another reminder that Eve Dangerfield is one of the most unique voices in the romance world." NYT Bestseller, L.J. Shen
“I love this book! A new mega-treasure for my keeper shelf!” NYT Bestseller, Annika Martin
"I adored this book. It is warm, funny, sexy, and unflinchingly human." USA Today bestseller, Andie J. Christopher
"All the things an Eve Dangerfield book is- sexy, funny, and insightful. Just loved it!" USA Today Bestseller, Amy Andrews
"One of those books you can’t put down and don’t stop thinking about!" Adriana Anders, Award-winning author of Whiteout
“This is one of the sexiest books we’ve read this year while being relatable and beautifully optimistic.” Make Out Already Podcast
Bethany Myers is looking for a fresh start. When the newly assertive and determined former #girlboss sees Byron Thomas, the hottest guy she has ever laid eyes on, she can’t help but catcall him on the street. But she never expects the former footballer to agree to a date with her, let alone give her the time of day.
Beth meets Byron for drinks, hoping for a scorching one-night stand—or at least to feel his biceps. What she finds rather, to her shock, is a meaningful connection that her heart and her soul can’t deny. He is her One and the man she can’t live without.
Byron is more than just a pretty face and a beautiful mind. But his heart has been broken and he still nurses scars from his past. Beth has sworn off wounded men, but she can’t stay away from this man and how he makes her feel. Will she be able to convince her One to take a chance on them and begin again?
"A breath of fresh air romance that cuts right through the haze." NYT Bestseller, Tessa Bailey
"Begin Again Again is yet another reminder that Eve Dangerfield is one of the most unique voices in the romance world." NYT Bestseller, L.J. Shen
“I love this book! A new mega-treasure for my keeper shelf!” NYT Bestseller, Annika Martin
"I adored this book. It is warm, funny, sexy, and unflinchingly human." USA Today bestseller, Andie J. Christopher
"All the things an Eve Dangerfield book is- sexy, funny, and insightful. Just loved it!" USA Today Bestseller, Amy Andrews
"One of those books you can’t put down and don’t stop thinking about!" Adriana Anders, Award-winning author of Whiteout
“This is one of the sexiest books we’ve read this year while being relatable and beautifully optimistic.” Make Out Already Podcast
346 pages, ebook
Published October 1, 2021
55 people are currently reading
892 people want to read
About the author
Eve Dangerfield
31 books1,491 followersEve Dangerfield has loved romance novels ever since she first swiped her grandmother’s paperbacks. Now she writes her own stories about complicated women and gorgeous-but-slightly-tortured men. Her work has been described as 'genre-defying,' and ‘the defibrillator contemporary romance needs right now'. And not just by those who might one day need bone marrow! She lives in Melbourne with her beautiful family and can generally be found making a mess.
www.instagram.com/evedangerfield/
www.instagram.com/evedangerfield/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
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August 18, 2021DNF 39%
Admittedly I'm beside myself this has happened considering that I am a massive fan of this author, but shit happens.
Firstly I am thrilled that Eve Dangerfield's hiatus is over and she is back to doing what she does best, writing some of my all time favourite books.
The fact is I struggled with Begin Again Again. The gist of the storyline was solid. A blossoming romance and a fresh beginning from past woes, especially after the dreaded Covid lockdowns. I also loved the reverse age gap with the heroine being older. Unfortunately I couldn't connect with either character. The lack of transparency of their issues and just waiting for this book to take off didn't happen quickly enough for my liking.
~ No rating for a book I didn't finish. Who knows, I may pick it up again at a later date. ~
Admittedly I'm beside myself this has happened considering that I am a massive fan of this author, but shit happens.
Firstly I am thrilled that Eve Dangerfield's hiatus is over and she is back to doing what she does best, writing some of my all time favourite books.
The fact is I struggled with Begin Again Again. The gist of the storyline was solid. A blossoming romance and a fresh beginning from past woes, especially after the dreaded Covid lockdowns. I also loved the reverse age gap with the heroine being older. Unfortunately I couldn't connect with either character. The lack of transparency of their issues and just waiting for this book to take off didn't happen quickly enough for my liking.
~ No rating for a book I didn't finish. Who knows, I may pick it up again at a later date. ~
Read
August 17, 2021
This story is based on once everyone started to come out of their caves after the Covid lockdowns and social distancing in Australia
After all these months of loneliness Bethany Myers start to feel the weight of her sobriety as she was back in the real world
She moved to Melbourne, to stay with her bff & her husband, thinking she was going to start over .. but her podcast had crash and burn into a million flaming pieces.
I just couldn’t connect with either one of these characters, and let’s not mention the fact that it was somewhat hard to comprehend what was being said or described by the author…..
I don’t know about you, but I’m just not in the right mindset for a Romance book set in current covid times, I’m sorry to say I wasn’t really feeling this…. I truly was so hyped about reading this new book by Eve, but unfortunately this was a bust for me……. I ended up DNF this book at about 51%....
➦📚 * Always keep in mind this is just my opinion+ Also I wouldn’t never discourage anyone from reading this book.
August 20, 2021
3 stars
I was so excited to see that Eve Dangerfield had a new book out. I adore her stories and her writing is always fantastic. Though I had some mixed feelings about Begin Again, Again there was a lot to love.
I liked watching Beth grow and find herself. I liked that she was a bit older than Byron and I enjoyed Byron and Beth’s romance, but I never felt truly connected to them. Honestly, I think my biggest problem with this one was it had a decent bit of pandemic talk and I know it’s real and we’re all going through it but I read to escape all of that and this isn’t the first book I’ve read that’s had it in there, and each time I read one I find myself enjoying it less and less.
If that is something that won’t bother you, I highly recommend picking this one up. Eve Dangerfield is an author I love and I can’t wait to read whatever she comes out with next!
I was so excited to see that Eve Dangerfield had a new book out. I adore her stories and her writing is always fantastic. Though I had some mixed feelings about Begin Again, Again there was a lot to love.
I liked watching Beth grow and find herself. I liked that she was a bit older than Byron and I enjoyed Byron and Beth’s romance, but I never felt truly connected to them. Honestly, I think my biggest problem with this one was it had a decent bit of pandemic talk and I know it’s real and we’re all going through it but I read to escape all of that and this isn’t the first book I’ve read that’s had it in there, and each time I read one I find myself enjoying it less and less.
If that is something that won’t bother you, I highly recommend picking this one up. Eve Dangerfield is an author I love and I can’t wait to read whatever she comes out with next!
August 9, 2021
Hiatus over. I’m back baby
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October 26, 2021
***A 2021 TOP PICK***
5 SOLID STARS!!
Plot in a nutshell: Girl trying to get her life together meets boy struggling with his own shit. Sparks fly, real life takes its toll. Do they run or fight for each other?
Okay, going to be honest here . . . I was dragging my feet on this one: a couple of my GR besties DNF'd, the title is cringeworthy, and my ARC copy had a glaring typo on the title page. I was not eager to dive in.
Except Eve Dangerfield wrote it, so how bad could it be?
The answer: it wasn't bad AT ALL. It was fucking amazing!
I loved that the author had a lot to say and that she said it without consideration for whether romance readers would fawn over it.
Beth was full of self-doubt and she didn't always stand up for herself.
Plus, as with all this author's books, the chemistry between the MC's was off the charts! And it all felt so organic the way Beth and Byron's sexual relationship grew and they fed off of each other's kinks. Fabulous stuff.
My only complaint was the overabundance of references; songs, name brands, movies, actors, TV, covid, sports teams, social media . . . but that's also real life, right?
I highly recommend if you love character-driven romance!!
5 SOLID STARS!!
"I love you so much it hurts sometimes."Gah! Once again Eve Dangerfield delivers an intelligent read that's underpinned by a searing current of sexual electricity.
Plot in a nutshell: Girl trying to get her life together meets boy struggling with his own shit. Sparks fly, real life takes its toll. Do they run or fight for each other?
Okay, going to be honest here . . . I was dragging my feet on this one: a couple of my GR besties DNF'd, the title is cringeworthy, and my ARC copy had a glaring typo on the title page. I was not eager to dive in.
Except Eve Dangerfield wrote it, so how bad could it be?
The answer: it wasn't bad AT ALL. It was fucking amazing!
I loved that the author had a lot to say and that she said it without consideration for whether romance readers would fawn over it.
No one gave a fuck when she was dry heaving in alleyways, but when she ordered a Diet Coke with her burger, she was being weird.The story was gritty, hard to read in places, and entirely character driven. And when the characters are constantly waving their flaws in the reader's face, it makes for some uncomfortable squirming . . . and not the good kind, though there was that too.
Beth was full of self-doubt and she didn't always stand up for herself.
She wanted to enjoy his beauty without panicking she couldn't match it.But in all her imperfect glory, she was REAL.
That was the problem with sobriety - the surface level was always giving way to deeper water.And Byron . . . he was the personification of still waters run deep. On the surface he was calm, cool, and very collected . . .
How much of a lady-killer was Byron when he was on form? A mass murderer, she guessed.. . . but underneath he was more of a mess than Beth was and when his walls finally came tumbling down, I ATE IT UP.
Plus, as with all this author's books, the chemistry between the MC's was off the charts! And it all felt so organic the way Beth and Byron's sexual relationship grew and they fed off of each other's kinks. Fabulous stuff.
My only complaint was the overabundance of references; songs, name brands, movies, actors, TV, covid, sports teams, social media . . . but that's also real life, right?
I highly recommend if you love character-driven romance!!
Beth felt like she was falling into Byron, or he was falling into her, and all the old empty places in her chest were suddenly full.Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an arc copy.
August 11, 2021
Beth and Bryon are two people whom I felt were very much real and raw. Beth living a life of sobriety and forced to deal with her feelings after cat calling Bryon and asking him out on a date was pretty badass. Bryon showing up and not delivering on the best fuck ever was even more comical. It was kismet.
"I am beautiful, brave, funny and nice, she whispered. I'm going to have an amazing evening, I have a wonderful life." WE LOVE AN AFFIRMATION QUEEN!
Bryon was an ex-foot ball player now electrician who was going to make it big but he got injured. So yeah, I guess you can say Bryon is angry. In fact I think BETH summarized Bryon perfectly
"A twenty-five-year-old Adonis with all the makings of a wonderful human being. Tear up the bingo card and throw it away, she might have found the perfect man."
It was very difficult at times watching them navigate their situationship, I must admit. Beth is grown, she's 4 years older and she knows what she wants. Bryon is holding onto football and usually rarely opens up because he's so lost. What I absolutely adored was how well they complimented each other, they were the driving force in helping the other grow.
When Bryon went after he wanted my heart wouldn't stop jumping for joy!
And just like that I switched from Listening to happier by Olivia Rodrigo to listening Boys by Charlie XCX and then halfway in the book I switched to traitor by Olivia and then went to to unlock it by Charlie.
I hope my reading playlist enlightens you on what you are about to get yourself into. I absolutely loved this read!
WELCOME BACK MISS EVA DANGERFIELD!
BOY, DID I SURE MISS YOU!
"I am beautiful, brave, funny and nice, she whispered. I'm going to have an amazing evening, I have a wonderful life." WE LOVE AN AFFIRMATION QUEEN!
Bryon was an ex-foot ball player now electrician who was going to make it big but he got injured. So yeah, I guess you can say Bryon is angry. In fact I think BETH summarized Bryon perfectly
"A twenty-five-year-old Adonis with all the makings of a wonderful human being. Tear up the bingo card and throw it away, she might have found the perfect man."
It was very difficult at times watching them navigate their situationship, I must admit. Beth is grown, she's 4 years older and she knows what she wants. Bryon is holding onto football and usually rarely opens up because he's so lost. What I absolutely adored was how well they complimented each other, they were the driving force in helping the other grow.
When Bryon went after he wanted my heart wouldn't stop jumping for joy!
And just like that I switched from Listening to happier by Olivia Rodrigo to listening Boys by Charlie XCX and then halfway in the book I switched to traitor by Olivia and then went to to unlock it by Charlie.
I hope my reading playlist enlightens you on what you are about to get yourself into. I absolutely loved this read!
WELCOME BACK MISS EVA DANGERFIELD!
BOY, DID I SURE MISS YOU!
April 30, 2022
"She loved the idea of him staring at her."
Begin Again, Again is a raw and real romance of two people surviving loss and learning to find life and love after that significant loss. After losing her job and her sense of normalcy, Bethany Myers does her best to accept the new norm. Even with a pandemic and a massive worldwide shutdown, life is destined to go on. Byron Thomas, a former professional football player, is also looking for joy through the haze of depression and despair. Between the two, a connection is formed, and they are both given a chance to begin again!
"Her love had its own energy,"Told in dual POV, Begin Again, Again is full of complexities as two human beings stumble through the haze to find each other. The overall tone of the read is heavy as both Beth and Byron are desperate to find their way to happiness. I found this read to be very raw and real. Although it was a true delight to reread Eve Dangerfield, I would not classify this piece as an escape but instead a real story that reflects the state of many people finding their way after the trauma of the pandemic and the losses we have all faced.
"Everything was different."Overall, I enjoy reading Eve Dangerfield and look forward to reading more of her work. Like many people, I am still struggling with life after the pandemic, so I was able to relate to many aspects of this read.
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dnf
December 10, 2025Dnf @ 66%, this was sort of miserable and deeply pathetic. Very accurate to modern dating culture but not at all what I’m interested in reading right now. I hope Beth leaves this manchild alone but I’m not sticking around to find out.
December 5, 2021
3 STARS
I love me a quirky romance from Eve Dangerfield. She's a go to author for me when I'm craving fun banter and dirty sex. And while this one was cute, it mostly fell flat for me.
I love the reverse age gap, though it's not huge. The meet cute was one of my favorite things. These two meet when Beth catcalls a random stranger on a whim from her car. She never expects the stranger to come over to her car, introduce himself and ask her out. She also doesn't expect for what she fully intends to be a hot hookup, to end with the man falling asleep on her while she was in the washroom.
This had all of the ingredients of a fun and quirky romance I'd normally seriously enjoy. Unfortunately, the dynamic between Byron and Beth never fully captured me. I just didn't click with them. Byron's immaturity and inability to let go of what could have been annoyed me. And I just failed to connect with the romance in general. The other piece that worked against me here was the whole post-pandemic thing. I've read a few books that had it, and it just isn't something I like in all honesty. I read for the escapism, and this is one piece of reality that I just don't really gravitate towards in my romance books.
Having said that, I still enjoyed the story. It just wasn't one that I loved. Luckily, I can say that book two MORE THAN MADE UP FOR IT. So while I didn't quite love this one, it still hit the spot and I'm super excited to have more Eve after her hiatus from writing.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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I love me a quirky romance from Eve Dangerfield. She's a go to author for me when I'm craving fun banter and dirty sex. And while this one was cute, it mostly fell flat for me.
I love the reverse age gap, though it's not huge. The meet cute was one of my favorite things. These two meet when Beth catcalls a random stranger on a whim from her car. She never expects the stranger to come over to her car, introduce himself and ask her out. She also doesn't expect for what she fully intends to be a hot hookup, to end with the man falling asleep on her while she was in the washroom.
This had all of the ingredients of a fun and quirky romance I'd normally seriously enjoy. Unfortunately, the dynamic between Byron and Beth never fully captured me. I just didn't click with them. Byron's immaturity and inability to let go of what could have been annoyed me. And I just failed to connect with the romance in general. The other piece that worked against me here was the whole post-pandemic thing. I've read a few books that had it, and it just isn't something I like in all honesty. I read for the escapism, and this is one piece of reality that I just don't really gravitate towards in my romance books.
Having said that, I still enjoyed the story. It just wasn't one that I loved. Luckily, I can say that book two MORE THAN MADE UP FOR IT. So while I didn't quite love this one, it still hit the spot and I'm super excited to have more Eve after her hiatus from writing.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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December 1, 2021
This is a contemporary romance it’s not technically angsty but did feel slightly toxic in places mostly from the side of the male hero Byron but it was well written and I did enjoy it. Time-wise it’s set now just as things are getting back to some sense of normality with the pandemic and references are made to this.
So Beth is living for the first time ever completely sober. She’s not actually an alcoholic but realised that she was drinking far too much and using it as a crutch. Sober Beth is someone she is still getting to grips with and as such she now has insecurities that drunk Beth didn’t suffer from. It also meant that her old life pretty much imploded due to giving up the booze. For now, she’s living in her friends spare room and working from home in a job that does nothing for her.
Byron is a few years younger than Beth and their first initial date doesn’t go quite to plan.
Despite this she likes him and he seems to like her back. But with issues in his past constantly impacting the present and his mixed messages Beth knows she needs to just take it as it is.
So I liked Beth a lot she comes across as so normal with all the same insecurities and confidence flaws we all seem to live with this made her so easy to relate to. Byron whilst I didn’t dislike him I found him problematic and slightly immature and did think Beth deserved better. He came across at times as selfish and stuck in his own head he doesn’t apologise or take responsibility for his own fuck ups and it did seem to be mostly about him and his feelings. He does grow as a person but it takes a while for him to get there. Don’t get me wrong he’s not a bad man just very much in his own head to the exclusion of those around.
He loves his family and his sister which brings me to another topic the sister I adored their inclusion in this. The sister Sal is non-binary and it was refreshing to see this portrayed in a character the struggles and triumphs were both explored here and I liked that Byron tried to support as well as understand his sister especially when their parents were behaving so awfully.
This had a lot of positives and was well written Byron did annoy me though and that was one of the reasons this only scored a 3 with me. I do wish I could have taken to him more than I did just a lot of the time he really made me want to scream with frustration at just how thoughtless he could be and I do think Beth should have given it back to him a bit more than she did she seemed to let him get away with an awful lot he was constantly ghosting her and then she would just forgive and forget so easily. I wanted her to give it to him straight. So yeah I mostly enjoyed this one but I also did have some small issues. I voluntary reviewed a copy of Begin again again.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
August 16, 2021
Overall rating 4 stars....I seriously love Eve Dangerfield .....she is such a unique voice and I especially love her quirkiness, her irreverent humor along with her ability to interject that humor into often painful scenes for her characters... as well as her "outside the box" approach to writing romance novels.
Having said that...this story started off a little slow for me...but it was more a case of...I just needed to find my groove and settle in a bit.
After that I found this to be a great read...entertaining, racy, fun and I truly loved the ending.
I also really loved the vulnerability that Byron and Beth both expressed at different times throughout this mostly poignant love story ...it did help me connect strongly and emotionally to these two individuals... starting over in life is definitely not an easy prospect...a struggle that both characters faced in different ways.
** I would like to point out this is a very sexy story when it comes to the bedroom.... smokin' hot ...in fact....also no real surprise to any fans of this author ...a little kink ..a little fantasy.
There were some regional references that probably went over my head (the story takes place in Australia after all) but no big deal...a few too many covid references perhaps...but also.. no big deal.
The inclusion of a non gender character (Sal...Byron's sister) was interesting...I liked her... but I did find the pronouns ( referencing her ) a little distracting at times when reading.
Thank you for ending your hiatus and returning back to writing..Eve Dangerfield...you were sorely missed. ❤
The author offered me a free copy to read and review...lucky me!!
Having said that...this story started off a little slow for me...but it was more a case of...I just needed to find my groove and settle in a bit.
After that I found this to be a great read...entertaining, racy, fun and I truly loved the ending.
I also really loved the vulnerability that Byron and Beth both expressed at different times throughout this mostly poignant love story ...it did help me connect strongly and emotionally to these two individuals... starting over in life is definitely not an easy prospect...a struggle that both characters faced in different ways.
** I would like to point out this is a very sexy story when it comes to the bedroom.... smokin' hot ...in fact....also no real surprise to any fans of this author ...a little kink ..a little fantasy.
There were some regional references that probably went over my head (the story takes place in Australia after all) but no big deal...a few too many covid references perhaps...but also.. no big deal.
The inclusion of a non gender character (Sal...Byron's sister) was interesting...I liked her... but I did find the pronouns ( referencing her ) a little distracting at times when reading.
Thank you for ending your hiatus and returning back to writing..Eve Dangerfield...you were sorely missed. ❤
The author offered me a free copy to read and review...lucky me!!
December 10, 2023
“You can’t just change once and expect everything to improve. You have to keep going. Keep making changes to suit where you are in the moment. Like the seasons!”
while i still enjoyed this one, it was my least favorite of the series. since i read it in essentially backwards order, i can really see how eve's writing has grown and changed through each book to the last. this one lacked some (not all) of her humor (i think it comes out stronger and more often in the other books), and has the least spice. however, there still is a strong foundation of character work there. i really appreciated the fmc's journey of sobriety by choice, as someone who relates to that. i also really liked the mmc working through the heartache of losing a great love (not a lover).
while i still enjoyed this one, it was my least favorite of the series. since i read it in essentially backwards order, i can really see how eve's writing has grown and changed through each book to the last. this one lacked some (not all) of her humor (i think it comes out stronger and more often in the other books), and has the least spice. however, there still is a strong foundation of character work there. i really appreciated the fmc's journey of sobriety by choice, as someone who relates to that. i also really liked the mmc working through the heartache of losing a great love (not a lover).
August 19, 2022
Begin Again, Again is about second chances. Ignoring the fact this is technically my third attempt reading this - first was an initial DNF, then I begrudgingly gave it another try hours later - I thoroughly enjoyed this book much more after giving it a deserved second chance.
Beth is a reformed alcoholic and partier seeking a fresh start. Byron is a former AFL star still struggling to get over the emotional burden a career-ending injury derailed his life years ago. They meet by chance and begin a rather, uhh, ambiguous situation-ship that's less about constantly hooking up and mutually avoiding labels but rather giving mixed signals while fighting feelings during a tumultuous renaissance period in their lives. It's complicated.
Also, this takes place during the 2020 pandemic and there's quite a few references to social distancing/masks, health precautions, lockdowns, all the fun stuff sprinkled throughout the book. Fair warning for those still sensitive to the heavy topic.
Admittedly, the aforementioned trigger warning is initially why I DNF'd the first time. This was released mid-2021, I wasn't prepared to read about the pandemic yet. (And I was months removed from leaving a toxic friendship with someone who reminds me of Byron.) But now that enough time has passed and I'm less antsy about it, I can confidently say I missed out the first/second time I read this because BAA is a hidden gem and it now has a special place in my heart.
Perhaps it's because I'm at a point in my life where I relate more to Beth's vulnerability, uncertainty about her future, and anxiety about turning over a new leaf, and to some extent Byron's reluctance to let go of his past, but I have a better appreciation for this book and what Dangerfield sought to accomplish. It's a memorable, vividly and empathetically written snapshot in time about two people just trying to figure themselves out and begin again... again. (I'll show myself out.) It's hilarious, and original, and I feel absolutely awful for trashing it the first time around.
Though I empathize with Byron more, I still think he's a dick and was still disappointed Beth initially bent herself out of shape to accommodate an emotionally unavailable man-child. But hey, they both grew and shaped their relationship to a healthier balance by the end, so I refuse to judge harshly.
I also refuse to end this review with a cheesy quote about second chances. But I will say, sometimes picking up a DNF'd book with a fresh perspective and enough space can be rewarding.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Original review:
Initially, I DNF this book halfway through but eventually picked it back up a few hours later. I love Eve Dangerfield's writing - at her best, it's sharp, belly laughing hilarious, Jesus-is-disappointed-in-you steamy, and unexpectedly poignant. I wasn't sure what to expect after her writing burnout a year ago, but this ended up being very… difficult.
It's a second chance romance set in post-lockdown Melbourne, AU during COVID and health precautions are heavily mentioned. And although lockdown is very, very vaguely mentioned in the blurb, it's quite a shock to see it discussed immediately then frequently throughout. Unless I'm actively seeking it out, real life events crossing over into entertainment is not my thing.
The pandemic aside, it wasn't a fun read. The narrative wanders a lot and tackles too many side stories, there's zero spark between the FMC and MC, few likeable characters, constant pop culture references that made me cringe and probably won't read well in a few years. Besides showing the importance of sobriety and taking care of yourself, it felt pointless.
A side note on the MC: he's a giant red flag. Emotionally immature, lust fueled, selfish piece of shit who the FMC, now sober and jumping from one destructive addiction to the next, bends herself out of shape to center her life around. When serious feelings came up, he ghosted her, waited a few weeks, then reappeared when he needed dick touches like nothing happened. AND SHE FELL FOR IT 👏🏼 EVERY 👏🏼 TIME!! Who cares if the D is that good - you deserve so much better!!
On the plus side, the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community and the respect towards a non-binary character was refreshing.
⭐️⭐️/ 5 for me. I feel shitty about giving this a low rating, but it just wasn't for me 😔
🌿 Quick hits: dual POV, steamy second chance contemporary romance during 2020 COVID times in Australia; slow burn, failed one-night-stand to lovers; newly sober from alcohol, reformed party girl FMC vs alcoholic, emotionally unavailable, ex-AFL player MC; tons of Aussie slang; LGBTQ+ inclusive, one non-binary character with they/them pronouns; not escapism. 🌿
Beth is a reformed alcoholic and partier seeking a fresh start. Byron is a former AFL star still struggling to get over the emotional burden a career-ending injury derailed his life years ago. They meet by chance and begin a rather, uhh, ambiguous situation-ship that's less about constantly hooking up and mutually avoiding labels but rather giving mixed signals while fighting feelings during a tumultuous renaissance period in their lives. It's complicated.
Also, this takes place during the 2020 pandemic and there's quite a few references to social distancing/masks, health precautions, lockdowns, all the fun stuff sprinkled throughout the book. Fair warning for those still sensitive to the heavy topic.
Admittedly, the aforementioned trigger warning is initially why I DNF'd the first time. This was released mid-2021, I wasn't prepared to read about the pandemic yet. (And I was months removed from leaving a toxic friendship with someone who reminds me of Byron.) But now that enough time has passed and I'm less antsy about it, I can confidently say I missed out the first/second time I read this because BAA is a hidden gem and it now has a special place in my heart.
Perhaps it's because I'm at a point in my life where I relate more to Beth's vulnerability, uncertainty about her future, and anxiety about turning over a new leaf, and to some extent Byron's reluctance to let go of his past, but I have a better appreciation for this book and what Dangerfield sought to accomplish. It's a memorable, vividly and empathetically written snapshot in time about two people just trying to figure themselves out and begin again... again. (I'll show myself out.) It's hilarious, and original, and I feel absolutely awful for trashing it the first time around.
Though I empathize with Byron more, I still think he's a dick and was still disappointed Beth initially bent herself out of shape to accommodate an emotionally unavailable man-child. But hey, they both grew and shaped their relationship to a healthier balance by the end, so I refuse to judge harshly.
I also refuse to end this review with a cheesy quote about second chances. But I will say, sometimes picking up a DNF'd book with a fresh perspective and enough space can be rewarding.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Original review:
Initially, I DNF this book halfway through but eventually picked it back up a few hours later. I love Eve Dangerfield's writing - at her best, it's sharp, belly laughing hilarious, Jesus-is-disappointed-in-you steamy, and unexpectedly poignant. I wasn't sure what to expect after her writing burnout a year ago, but this ended up being very… difficult.
It's a second chance romance set in post-lockdown Melbourne, AU during COVID and health precautions are heavily mentioned. And although lockdown is very, very vaguely mentioned in the blurb, it's quite a shock to see it discussed immediately then frequently throughout. Unless I'm actively seeking it out, real life events crossing over into entertainment is not my thing.
The pandemic aside, it wasn't a fun read. The narrative wanders a lot and tackles too many side stories, there's zero spark between the FMC and MC, few likeable characters, constant pop culture references that made me cringe and probably won't read well in a few years. Besides showing the importance of sobriety and taking care of yourself, it felt pointless.
A side note on the MC: he's a giant red flag. Emotionally immature, lust fueled, selfish piece of shit who the FMC, now sober and jumping from one destructive addiction to the next, bends herself out of shape to center her life around. When serious feelings came up, he ghosted her, waited a few weeks, then reappeared when he needed dick touches like nothing happened. AND SHE FELL FOR IT 👏🏼 EVERY 👏🏼 TIME!! Who cares if the D is that good - you deserve so much better!!
On the plus side, the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community and the respect towards a non-binary character was refreshing.
⭐️⭐️/ 5 for me. I feel shitty about giving this a low rating, but it just wasn't for me 😔
🌿 Quick hits: dual POV, steamy second chance contemporary romance during 2020 COVID times in Australia; slow burn, failed one-night-stand to lovers; newly sober from alcohol, reformed party girl FMC vs alcoholic, emotionally unavailable, ex-AFL player MC; tons of Aussie slang; LGBTQ+ inclusive, one non-binary character with they/them pronouns; not escapism. 🌿
November 18, 2024
4.5 stars
First thing to get out of the way — this is set in 2020, and there is covid talk. It took me a while to get into the story because it’s not a time I like to revisit, but I stuck with it because Eve Dangerfield is a freaking good writer.
The book starts with Beth (a New Zealander in Melbourne) catcalling a guy (Byron) she sees on the street, and impulsively asking him out. But it’s not smooth sailing, because there’s no instalove here and both are dealing with real life shit.
This was one of the best “dating” romances I’ve read in forever. It really captured the slight awkwardness, the not knowing what the other person is thinking, and going on vibes and the strength of attraction. The characters (okay, mainly Byron) had some missteps, but remained sympathetic because they felt real and layered.
The story was also just so *Australian*, I really can’t put my finger on it. The dry wit, the decidedly non-flowery way that Eve Dangerfield writes. I just loved it.
First thing to get out of the way — this is set in 2020, and there is covid talk. It took me a while to get into the story because it’s not a time I like to revisit, but I stuck with it because Eve Dangerfield is a freaking good writer.
The book starts with Beth (a New Zealander in Melbourne) catcalling a guy (Byron) she sees on the street, and impulsively asking him out. But it’s not smooth sailing, because there’s no instalove here and both are dealing with real life shit.
This was one of the best “dating” romances I’ve read in forever. It really captured the slight awkwardness, the not knowing what the other person is thinking, and going on vibes and the strength of attraction. The characters (okay, mainly Byron) had some missteps, but remained sympathetic because they felt real and layered.
The story was also just so *Australian*, I really can’t put my finger on it. The dry wit, the decidedly non-flowery way that Eve Dangerfield writes. I just loved it.
August 25, 2021
4 'New Beginnings' Stars
Beth has been struggling with dating through the pandemic. Finally out of lockdown, she feels free. So free that she ends up catcalling the most gorgeous man she has ever laid eyes on. Without even getting his name, they agree to meet up for drinks.
Their date is full of attraction and mysterious banter. Despite her recent sobriety, Beth doesn't mind that her handsome date is a little buzzed. All she can think about is going home with him at the end of the night. She is certain that she has found the perfect guy to end her dry-spell when he invites her back to his home. A huge mansion in the nice part of town? Things only get weirder when, after freshening up in the restroom, Beth finds her date passed out drunk in his bedroom - begging her not the leave him. Best worst date ever?
She finally breaks free of his strong embrace and sneaks out. That should have been one of worst dates she has ever been on, but how come its not? And why the hell can't she stop thinking about the mysterious Byron Thomas?
Alright, I will admit that I was a little hesitant to give this book a shot. Reading a book that mentions COVID restrictions, quarantine, and lockdown fairly consistently made me legit shudder. But I can confirm that this book only uses the pandemic to help keep to the theme of this book - to Begin Again, Again. Rest assured, there is no talk of how devastating this virus is nor does any characters talk about having/had the virus or losing loved ones to the virus. However, the author does not downplay the seriousness of it either. I do understand that reading this may not appeal to everyone, but I wanted to help clarify for those that are openminded to it.
And I hope everyone decides to give this one a chance because it is really good. The romance focuses on two characters trying to overcome very different but impactful situations. Age differences aside - our heroine is slightly older - they have both been dealt some of life's tough cards. But when they are together their luck doesn't seem so terrible. And every scene these two share together is explosive. Byron's dirty talk is superb. Ha!
The supporting cast of characters are great as well. We have a pro-athlete friend, and non-binary sister, and two couples that are already established. I really cannot wait to see some of their stories unfold in the next few books.
Special thanks to the author for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Beth has been struggling with dating through the pandemic. Finally out of lockdown, she feels free. So free that she ends up catcalling the most gorgeous man she has ever laid eyes on. Without even getting his name, they agree to meet up for drinks.
Their date is full of attraction and mysterious banter. Despite her recent sobriety, Beth doesn't mind that her handsome date is a little buzzed. All she can think about is going home with him at the end of the night. She is certain that she has found the perfect guy to end her dry-spell when he invites her back to his home. A huge mansion in the nice part of town? Things only get weirder when, after freshening up in the restroom, Beth finds her date passed out drunk in his bedroom - begging her not the leave him. Best worst date ever?
She finally breaks free of his strong embrace and sneaks out. That should have been one of worst dates she has ever been on, but how come its not? And why the hell can't she stop thinking about the mysterious Byron Thomas?
Alright, I will admit that I was a little hesitant to give this book a shot. Reading a book that mentions COVID restrictions, quarantine, and lockdown fairly consistently made me legit shudder. But I can confirm that this book only uses the pandemic to help keep to the theme of this book - to Begin Again, Again. Rest assured, there is no talk of how devastating this virus is nor does any characters talk about having/had the virus or losing loved ones to the virus. However, the author does not downplay the seriousness of it either. I do understand that reading this may not appeal to everyone, but I wanted to help clarify for those that are openminded to it.
And I hope everyone decides to give this one a chance because it is really good. The romance focuses on two characters trying to overcome very different but impactful situations. Age differences aside - our heroine is slightly older - they have both been dealt some of life's tough cards. But when they are together their luck doesn't seem so terrible. And every scene these two share together is explosive. Byron's dirty talk is superb. Ha!
The supporting cast of characters are great as well. We have a pro-athlete friend, and non-binary sister, and two couples that are already established. I really cannot wait to see some of their stories unfold in the next few books.
Special thanks to the author for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
September 8, 2021
I loved everything about this book. SOOOOOO good!! I love the details and the characters and how fun and massively compelling it is, and pretty much everything else about it. A new mega-treasure for my keeper shelf!
August 18, 2021
I've only just started reading this and it is AMAZING!
I have missed Eve's writing in her hiatus and grabbed this as soon as it was released.
I'm currently in a lockdown so this is giving me some nostalgia for the sweet time between the many lockdowns thanks to the Rona!
I can't wait to see how Beth and Byron's romance unfolds!
I have missed Eve's writing in her hiatus and grabbed this as soon as it was released.
I'm currently in a lockdown so this is giving me some nostalgia for the sweet time between the many lockdowns thanks to the Rona!
I can't wait to see how Beth and Byron's romance unfolds!
Read
March 5, 2022I’ve decided not to finish this right now. It takes place during COVID, and honestly, I thought I would be able to ignore this. Not so much, it feels like a secondary character and I’m not ready.
So, I’m putting a pin in it for the future.
So, I’m putting a pin in it for the future.
August 5, 2021
Perfectly imperfect people
4.5 for me
This is probably the most different piece of work of the author’s that I’ve read, and I’ve read nearly all her books. Byron is an electrician with an epic past and Bethany is a podcaster who’s just trying to get her toe in the world. Both are such… interesting characters. I love the thing they have with each other but as you read on, you see that this book is a little less about an epic romance and more about the meaning of choosing what’s most important to you, about not having to please others if it means hurting yourself. Beth and By aren’t by any means perfect, but they’re perfect for each other, and it shows in the way they improve each other. There were some good messages in here but if I wasn’t focusing on the flow of things, I was either getting hot and bothered or crying my eyes out. It’s a definite recommend if you like reading romances about two imperfect people.
4.5 for me
This is probably the most different piece of work of the author’s that I’ve read, and I’ve read nearly all her books. Byron is an electrician with an epic past and Bethany is a podcaster who’s just trying to get her toe in the world. Both are such… interesting characters. I love the thing they have with each other but as you read on, you see that this book is a little less about an epic romance and more about the meaning of choosing what’s most important to you, about not having to please others if it means hurting yourself. Beth and By aren’t by any means perfect, but they’re perfect for each other, and it shows in the way they improve each other. There were some good messages in here but if I wasn’t focusing on the flow of things, I was either getting hot and bothered or crying my eyes out. It’s a definite recommend if you like reading romances about two imperfect people.
November 30, 2021
i think the focus on covid made this hard for me to get through, and also i felt like there was a lack of intimacy (emotional and physical) between beth and byron :(
August 24, 2021
Eve Dangerfield’s “Begin again, again” novel is the newest release after a small hiatus from the romance community. I had read some mixed reviews regarding the book, most specifically its mention of covid. The story follows Bethany, a New Zealand native who has moved to Melbourne for a fresh and sober new beginning when she is plunged head first into lockdown. Emerging out of lockdown, she is looking for a connection and a stimulating encounter when she runs into Byron Thomas, the tall and handsome electrician that has a smile that is as dangerous as it is sexy.
*** SPOILER ALERT***
Admittedly, I wasn’t sold on Byron Thomas from the beginning. Arriving to a date absolutely tanked isn’t cute… but it’s forgivable. Especially when you’re desperately horny and a 6’3 hunk who has been in the Melbourne sun all day is looking over at you with his green eyes like you’re his favourite meal. Those are odds that as a single girl in a pandemic, I would roll dice for. We're sexy humans, deal with it.
Further along, we learn that Byron Thomas is actually a rather decent guy who is just trying to let go of the dream that was snatched from him and be a good brother to his non-binary sibling, Sal when Beth comes crashing into him and stirring up feelings he had pushed aside.
While it is mentioned heavily in other reviews as a negative, I didn’t find the mention of covid to be triggering at all- even though I work in essential services and we talk about it all day long. Rather than feeling dread wash over me of the mention, it made me remember all of the things I was excited to re-experience outside of it.
Rather than bring about some sort of spicy déjà vu, it drew me back with heightened excitement and nervousness to the things that feel magic about the click of seasons and the tension that comes with the gradual release of spring to usher in the summer; the way ankle boots feel on bare legs, navigating the pavements of Brunswick alongside the electrifying sounds of other strangers belonging to other worlds spilling out of bars, when the drinks were iced and the nights were warm. So much of this book felt like a love letter to Melbourne, the mention of Covid seemed insignificant in comparison.
Unlike, Act Your Age, this book is a little more romance than it is dirty- however, there are some fantasy role plays that certainly give me the old Ty & Middleton goosebumps- however, it is also a switch in the age difference which I liked seeing explored for a change of pace. In Begin Again, Again we are seeing a slightly older woman dating a younger guy. I was doubtful to begin with but I found myself bursting out laughing in multiple points of the book over the witty bantering between Beth and Byron, hell, even Byron and Derek.
I didn’t fall in love with the secondary characters like I did with Act Your Age, however, the book did leave with a taste for the upcoming novel, Return All, and now it’s all I can think about.
Give this one a chance to win you over!
*** SPOILER ALERT***
Admittedly, I wasn’t sold on Byron Thomas from the beginning. Arriving to a date absolutely tanked isn’t cute… but it’s forgivable. Especially when you’re desperately horny and a 6’3 hunk who has been in the Melbourne sun all day is looking over at you with his green eyes like you’re his favourite meal. Those are odds that as a single girl in a pandemic, I would roll dice for. We're sexy humans, deal with it.
Further along, we learn that Byron Thomas is actually a rather decent guy who is just trying to let go of the dream that was snatched from him and be a good brother to his non-binary sibling, Sal when Beth comes crashing into him and stirring up feelings he had pushed aside.
While it is mentioned heavily in other reviews as a negative, I didn’t find the mention of covid to be triggering at all- even though I work in essential services and we talk about it all day long. Rather than feeling dread wash over me of the mention, it made me remember all of the things I was excited to re-experience outside of it.
Rather than bring about some sort of spicy déjà vu, it drew me back with heightened excitement and nervousness to the things that feel magic about the click of seasons and the tension that comes with the gradual release of spring to usher in the summer; the way ankle boots feel on bare legs, navigating the pavements of Brunswick alongside the electrifying sounds of other strangers belonging to other worlds spilling out of bars, when the drinks were iced and the nights were warm. So much of this book felt like a love letter to Melbourne, the mention of Covid seemed insignificant in comparison.
Unlike, Act Your Age, this book is a little more romance than it is dirty- however, there are some fantasy role plays that certainly give me the old Ty & Middleton goosebumps- however, it is also a switch in the age difference which I liked seeing explored for a change of pace. In Begin Again, Again we are seeing a slightly older woman dating a younger guy. I was doubtful to begin with but I found myself bursting out laughing in multiple points of the book over the witty bantering between Beth and Byron, hell, even Byron and Derek.
I didn’t fall in love with the secondary characters like I did with Act Your Age, however, the book did leave with a taste for the upcoming novel, Return All, and now it’s all I can think about.
Give this one a chance to win you over!
August 4, 2021
EVE DANGERFIELD IS BACK, BABYYYYY!
And she’s brought this amazing story full of hope, humour, and heart with her. The three Hs you didn’t even know you needed.
I’m going to tell you why you do.
Some of my absolute favourite stories happen when an author takes, not just from life in general, but from truly personal, vulnerable places in their own lives. The rawness and realness comes through all the more authentically when it’s not just fiction. And hats off to all authors who do that, because laying real experiences bare for all to read cannot be easy. If you’ve followed Eve for a while, I think you’ll be able to make those distinctions yourself, and if you haven’t, just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Let me start by saying that the introduction to this book and these characters was so poetically perfect. I love reading books by Australian authors, set in Australia, with Aussie and Kiwi characters. They speak my language. It’s so refreshing, and always hilarious. So the meet-cute (yep, that’s what I’m calling it) between Byron and Beth set the tone of the book immediately and I was hooked.
The characters are complicated, flawed, and sometimes jaded people - and everyone can relate to people like that.
Their backgrounds are similar in so many ways, and kind of melancholy as much as they aren’t.
This is one of those stories about finding ‘the one’ at the wrong time in your life. It’s real. It’s progressive. And it deals with a very serious and sensitive topic without ever once coming across as preachy.
When I saw that Eve had reappeared with this offering, I was excited. When I read it, I was elated. This is Eve rejuvenated and at her absolute best!
And she’s brought this amazing story full of hope, humour, and heart with her. The three Hs you didn’t even know you needed.
I’m going to tell you why you do.
Some of my absolute favourite stories happen when an author takes, not just from life in general, but from truly personal, vulnerable places in their own lives. The rawness and realness comes through all the more authentically when it’s not just fiction. And hats off to all authors who do that, because laying real experiences bare for all to read cannot be easy. If you’ve followed Eve for a while, I think you’ll be able to make those distinctions yourself, and if you haven’t, just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Let me start by saying that the introduction to this book and these characters was so poetically perfect. I love reading books by Australian authors, set in Australia, with Aussie and Kiwi characters. They speak my language. It’s so refreshing, and always hilarious. So the meet-cute (yep, that’s what I’m calling it) between Byron and Beth set the tone of the book immediately and I was hooked.
The characters are complicated, flawed, and sometimes jaded people - and everyone can relate to people like that.
Their backgrounds are similar in so many ways, and kind of melancholy as much as they aren’t.
This is one of those stories about finding ‘the one’ at the wrong time in your life. It’s real. It’s progressive. And it deals with a very serious and sensitive topic without ever once coming across as preachy.
When I saw that Eve had reappeared with this offering, I was excited. When I read it, I was elated. This is Eve rejuvenated and at her absolute best!
August 10, 2021
I love Dangerfield's books and enjoy her voice for her podcast as well, overall think she's a cool and dependable writer to read, whatever the content.
This book is a lot more New Adult than her previous works. There are pros and cons to this, the vulnerability both protagonists have are just very NA issues to me, though I'm sure you would find Beth's struggles that are exacerbated by the pandemic realistic and heartfelt regardless of your background and reading preferences.
The NA-esque cons are that Beth constantly brings up how intimidatingly attractive she finds Byron, it's a character choice and not as shallow as some NA execute it, but this combined with the incessant pop culture references (tv shows and also nonstop pop song references), which were meant to give the story a soundtrack, but made it a bit too busy for my consumption. Byron is also boring by comparison to her previous male leads. He came across as very face value-nice at his core like all of Dangerfield's protagonists but quiet and also angsty in a way that made their connection feel less concrete, even when you're in the second half of the book.
These all seemed like deliberate choices that Dangerfield is making and growing into, so I'm excited to see what she does next, as I always appreciate that in between the many romance books she's published, the dynamics and arcs have not become repetitive.
This book is a lot more New Adult than her previous works. There are pros and cons to this, the vulnerability both protagonists have are just very NA issues to me, though I'm sure you would find Beth's struggles that are exacerbated by the pandemic realistic and heartfelt regardless of your background and reading preferences.
The NA-esque cons are that Beth constantly brings up how intimidatingly attractive she finds Byron, it's a character choice and not as shallow as some NA execute it, but this combined with the incessant pop culture references (tv shows and also nonstop pop song references), which were meant to give the story a soundtrack, but made it a bit too busy for my consumption. Byron is also boring by comparison to her previous male leads. He came across as very face value-nice at his core like all of Dangerfield's protagonists but quiet and also angsty in a way that made their connection feel less concrete, even when you're in the second half of the book.
These all seemed like deliberate choices that Dangerfield is making and growing into, so I'm excited to see what she does next, as I always appreciate that in between the many romance books she's published, the dynamics and arcs have not become repetitive.
November 26, 2021
3.5 ⭐
so i found it incredibly hard to write this review because this book had me going through so many thoughts and feels...
dis i enjoy it? YES
was it a picture perfect romance? NO
the first half of Begin Again, Again had me so, i guess, confused? our main characters (Beth and Byron) seemed so awkward. so it took me a while to get into their chemistry and when it did happen i thought that maybe it was a case of "we need each other to grow but not to love". i think it was mostly because of Byron, his quietness and how he responded to Beth (which was all later explained) but it still triggered me a bit.
the other things were how the dialogue and monologue dragged (yet again, only the first half of the book), and the mentions of Covid - quite a bit but also understood that it fits in with the story. and then like also the pettiness of the people and friends. i dunno i just couldn't really understand the friendship.
what did really work for me was the raw and realness of the story, that it wasn't just a romance but people with problems and issues to overcome.
and I'm not going to lie, the sexual themes were pretty hott
I'm glad that we could see the character growth, especially with Byron because this man had me so tense. Beth's character... i still see as someone running away but i did like her and i guess with that ending I'm not going to complain about her starting over
so i found it incredibly hard to write this review because this book had me going through so many thoughts and feels...
dis i enjoy it? YES
was it a picture perfect romance? NO
the first half of Begin Again, Again had me so, i guess, confused? our main characters (Beth and Byron) seemed so awkward. so it took me a while to get into their chemistry and when it did happen i thought that maybe it was a case of "we need each other to grow but not to love". i think it was mostly because of Byron, his quietness and how he responded to Beth (which was all later explained) but it still triggered me a bit.
the other things were how the dialogue and monologue dragged (yet again, only the first half of the book), and the mentions of Covid - quite a bit but also understood that it fits in with the story. and then like also the pettiness of the people and friends. i dunno i just couldn't really understand the friendship.
what did really work for me was the raw and realness of the story, that it wasn't just a romance but people with problems and issues to overcome.
and I'm not going to lie, the sexual themes were pretty hott
I'm glad that we could see the character growth, especially with Byron because this man had me so tense. Beth's character... i still see as someone running away but i did like her and i guess with that ending I'm not going to complain about her starting over
August 15, 2022
This was book 1 in the
"Rebirth"
series. This was a pretty good read Beth and Byron meet and have drinks she wants to hook up she doesn't do relationships. Byron has been hurt before so he wants to go slow. I loved the characters in this book they are both broken by past hurts. Beth has a podcast that she is trying to get off the ground. I liked all the secondary characters in the book as well and Sal who is a non-binary character has to deal with all the challenges that come with it I think this was my first time reading this type of character. This book also had some funny moments in it. I have read this author before. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
December 1, 2022
This was refreshing, and sweet, and blinding hot! There were a few personal breaks needed whilst reading, so you have been warned. I loved these characters, with all their flaws, and bumps, and blemishes, and their complete and utter perfection. They had feelings and reactions, thoughts and beliefs, they were honest and protective of themselves. This was a great story about always becoming who you are, and recognizing when you’re stuck and need to move forward. Everything just felt so real and raw, it was more than Bethany and Byron’s story, it was the moments their lives interacted and how they became intertwined. Loved it all <3
August 28, 2024
Little over 4 stars. A lot of my loving this comes from my own self insertion as a sober person, but the banter, the chemistry, the complexity of different relationships on page. I had to text my bestie some quotes cuz I was so over the moon. This is so tender and amazing. Having the distance from the time period the book is set in was nice. The references bring me right back. I liked how grounded in real places this was to a non-Aussie. The musical references - I was into them and what they conveyed until a tipping point happened after the 5th or so and it was something I glossed over moving forward as it took me out of reading flow to have to think about it. But thats also because some of their meaning was going to be lost to me.
November 22, 2023
I wanted to like this story more, given the positive reviews, but I got a bit tired of Beth and Lara going on and on about the 5-year ago gap between Beth and Byron and the constant talk about drinking. It’s clear she is an alcoholic, though she says she’s not. Then there is the family(s) dysfunction, last count three families or was it four?
December 10, 2023
I really enjoy Eve Dangerfield, she makes me want to pack my shit up and move to Australia just because I enjoy her writing and characters so much.
I really liked Beth and Byron and enjoyed the giddiness of really liking someone and all that comes with that. Excited to dive into the rest of the books in this series.
I really liked Beth and Byron and enjoyed the giddiness of really liking someone and all that comes with that. Excited to dive into the rest of the books in this series.
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