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Love Again
After a devastating breakup six months ago, Mara, a famous but anonymous painter, lost her ability to paint, and with it her sense of self. Low on funds and desperate to find herself again, she moves into her grandparents’ old cabin in Copper Springs, Colorado.
As Mara settles into her new life, a phone call from her agent puts her career on the line: deliver a new collection of paintings in fIve months or watch her career tank. Mara strives to reconnect to her old magic, but every time she lays brush to canvas, she fails to create anything worthwhile.
Despite her attempts to stick to herself and focus on keeping her career alive, small-town life proves to be more helpful than she anticipated when the handsome local cheesemonger catches her eye and the quirky art store owner insists on friendship.
Faced with crippling self-doubt, the ghosts of her past, and a sudden shift in her deadline, Mara must decide if it's safer to hide herself from her new friends for the sake of protecting her art and identity, or if it's worth the risk to learn to love again.
As Mara settles into her new life, a phone call from her agent puts her career on the line: deliver a new collection of paintings in fIve months or watch her career tank. Mara strives to reconnect to her old magic, but every time she lays brush to canvas, she fails to create anything worthwhile.
Despite her attempts to stick to herself and focus on keeping her career alive, small-town life proves to be more helpful than she anticipated when the handsome local cheesemonger catches her eye and the quirky art store owner insists on friendship.
Faced with crippling self-doubt, the ghosts of her past, and a sudden shift in her deadline, Mara must decide if it's safer to hide herself from her new friends for the sake of protecting her art and identity, or if it's worth the risk to learn to love again.
230 pages, Paperback
Published October 25, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 22, 2023
I'm not much of a romance reader, but this is the second book of Liz's I've finished thinking maybe I should be reading more of it.
The story is expertly paced with silky smooth prose and a cast of characters who I dare you not to fall in love with. The character work on display in this book is phenomenal for even minor side characters, but the star of the show is of course Mara, whose healing journey was beautifully crafted.
I'm not exaggerating when I say this book moved me to tears multiple times. Maybe I'm just a softie, but if my reluctance to put the book down is any indicator, I'm pretty sure it had at least something to do with how great the story was. Highly recommended, and I can't wait to read Liz's next one!
The story is expertly paced with silky smooth prose and a cast of characters who I dare you not to fall in love with. The character work on display in this book is phenomenal for even minor side characters, but the star of the show is of course Mara, whose healing journey was beautifully crafted.
I'm not exaggerating when I say this book moved me to tears multiple times. Maybe I'm just a softie, but if my reluctance to put the book down is any indicator, I'm pretty sure it had at least something to do with how great the story was. Highly recommended, and I can't wait to read Liz's next one!
September 17, 2022
I love this beautiful story about what it means to heal after heartbreak. Mara's journey to find her art again, move through grief, and learn to accept unconditional support from the people around her is so grounded and human.
December 14, 2022
I really loved this book. I don't read much fiction, and wasn't entirely sure I could get through a whole book but I was GLUED to this one. I read it on a flight and almost embarrassed myself because I was tearing up in my seat. The woman next to me actually asked me about my book because I was so clearly engrossed!
One of the things I love about this book is the way the author crafted Mara's sexuality. She is a very relatable character, and her sexuality doesn't at all define her but it is clear that she owns her desire without shame and doesn't play in to the blushing, shy trope that we see all too often. Her sexuality is a solid part of her without being her entire personality, and I found that really refreshing.
In addition, I really appreciated the role that therapy played in this book. Sometimes therapists are portrayed as either useless or more of a wise best friend, but I thought the representation of therapy in this book was nicely balanced, threading the needle of it being an important factor without being a book about going to therapy.
I just generally found the book sweet without being saccharine, sad without being melancholy, and satisfying without being too predictable. I read it in one sitting back in early November and am still finding myself thinking about it over a month later. Looking forward to more from Leiby!
One of the things I love about this book is the way the author crafted Mara's sexuality. She is a very relatable character, and her sexuality doesn't at all define her but it is clear that she owns her desire without shame and doesn't play in to the blushing, shy trope that we see all too often. Her sexuality is a solid part of her without being her entire personality, and I found that really refreshing.
In addition, I really appreciated the role that therapy played in this book. Sometimes therapists are portrayed as either useless or more of a wise best friend, but I thought the representation of therapy in this book was nicely balanced, threading the needle of it being an important factor without being a book about going to therapy.
I just generally found the book sweet without being saccharine, sad without being melancholy, and satisfying without being too predictable. I read it in one sitting back in early November and am still finding myself thinking about it over a month later. Looking forward to more from Leiby!
December 22, 2022
Romance is not normally my preferred genre, but I am glad I decided to read this one. It was romance without being sappy Hallmark romance, nor was it over the top drama-filled romance. Just a clean, straightforward story. Great read.
January 16, 2023
"You may fascinate a woman by giving her a piece of cheese."
Liz Leiby took this particular morsal of timeless courting advice very seriously when she wrote this sweet and cozy romp.
And while she is highly skilled in transporting the reader into a world of comforts, you will at times be uncomfortable (in a good way).
In fact, I'll be the first to avoid traditional sappy, tropey "Romance", and I assure you, this is not that.
You will delve into the murky depths of Mara's artistic angst and come face-to-face with her demons even before the first kiss.
But if you are also looking to experience delightful sights, sounds, and tastes alongside, you won't be disappointed.
In fact, make sure that while you read this you curl up with some wine and cheese, because you will be craving it.
Liz Leiby took this particular morsal of timeless courting advice very seriously when she wrote this sweet and cozy romp.
And while she is highly skilled in transporting the reader into a world of comforts, you will at times be uncomfortable (in a good way).
In fact, I'll be the first to avoid traditional sappy, tropey "Romance", and I assure you, this is not that.
You will delve into the murky depths of Mara's artistic angst and come face-to-face with her demons even before the first kiss.
But if you are also looking to experience delightful sights, sounds, and tastes alongside, you won't be disappointed.
In fact, make sure that while you read this you curl up with some wine and cheese, because you will be craving it.
February 27, 2023
This book was so adorable! The author did a great job describing a first crush so well that the reader could feel it too, which is one of my favorite things 😍 it did leave me wanting more, I wish it was just a bit longer, but overall the writing was wonderful, storyline and characters were great, and every character felt very well developed.
January 14, 2023
This was such a lovely read. I will admit that I’m not a huge romance reader, probably for the same reason that I don’t watch many horror movies: people behave ridiculously. But Mara and Arjun were real and grounded characters, trying to reach their best selves. Their arc felt authentic and comforting, and never like a forced scenario. I’m pleased to have read something from this emerging author!
December 29, 2022
Loved this book! A definite must read if you love Love ❤️
October 22, 2023
Read this book!
I don’t normally write reviews on books - but this is one I couldn’t pass up. I didn’t put this book down. Liz Leiby not only makes you feel all the things a romance novel often brings - love, lust, heartbreak, etc., but she also makes you see, hear, and taste everything she writes. While the story focuses on the artist, Mara, I feel like the author, Liz, is the true artist here.
I don’t normally write reviews on books - but this is one I couldn’t pass up. I didn’t put this book down. Liz Leiby not only makes you feel all the things a romance novel often brings - love, lust, heartbreak, etc., but she also makes you see, hear, and taste everything she writes. While the story focuses on the artist, Mara, I feel like the author, Liz, is the true artist here.
November 29, 2022
Beautiful clarity of writing. Fully realized characters who you desperately root for. Painfully accurate portrayl of losing and finding yourself again. Plus, a swoony relationship I was completely invested in. If I had any criticism, it would be that I wish that there was more kissing!
November 21, 2022
I loved Liz’s romantic story of healing. The story unfolded seamlessly, bringing the reader to a satisfying ending. Mara was able to come to a place of healing through the grace offered by her friends, as well as the wisdom offered by the long ago relationship with her grandparents and the present-day relationship with her sister. Letting go is healing, but one has to have the time and space to know which things need to go.
Lovely story! Please write more!
Lovely story! Please write more!
April 21, 2023
I'm not much of one for romance but this book is sweet and heartwarming and charming. Mara's navigation through the betrayal and pain of her past through to acceptance of herself is such a relatable journey. The book is full of wholesome loveable characters, and when the love interest turns out to know the recipe for the world's best mac n cheese-- I am sold. Also, can I please get that recipe?
May 20, 2023
Taylor song: this is me trying
April 4, 2023
I don’t normally immediately finish a book and make a post but I needed to for this one. This is Liz Leiby’s debut book. It is such a sweet and relatable romance. Mara’s story is one of growth and learning to love who you are. Growing and healing from toxic relationships in the past. I devoured this book and want more. I adore everything about it and I’m so happy my friend introduced me to this book. 5 ⭐️s
September 9, 2023
This book made me so happy. From the beginning, I wanted to give Mara a hug. She has a terrible breakup and lost her ability to paint, which is her career but also a huge part of her identity. Her relationship with her sister, Charleigh, has been strained for years but Charleigh doesn't hesitate to be there for Mara. This story made me wish for a sister so I could have their kind of relationship. It was so precious.
As Mara wants to turn away from the world, she meets a friend and a love interest, both who are integral in her healing process. Arjun is fantastic and hot, and their banter is so fun. They had me grinning ear to ear. I also loved that Mara met a fan of her art persona (which Mara keeps secret) so Mara could hear first hand how people are affected by her work. She also gets support from her in trying to find her art again.
Love Again is a wonderful story of starting again and finding what you need in the last place you expect. I loved the writing style, the characters, and the plot. If you like stories with romance and second chances, definitely pick this one up!
As Mara wants to turn away from the world, she meets a friend and a love interest, both who are integral in her healing process. Arjun is fantastic and hot, and their banter is so fun. They had me grinning ear to ear. I also loved that Mara met a fan of her art persona (which Mara keeps secret) so Mara could hear first hand how people are affected by her work. She also gets support from her in trying to find her art again.
Love Again is a wonderful story of starting again and finding what you need in the last place you expect. I loved the writing style, the characters, and the plot. If you like stories with romance and second chances, definitely pick this one up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2023
This is the second book I've read from Liz Leiby and I honestly can't get enough of their work.
This book was so beautifully written. It was full of hope and was an incredible story of healing after heartbreak and finding yourself again.
I didn't want this book to ever end. The growth and healing that Mara goes through in this story was so raw and emotional, I really felt that her pain was my own. Her relationship with Arjun and the honesty and love that they shared was incredible.
I can't recommend this book enough. I'm so excited to read more of Leiby's work in the future.
This book was so beautifully written. It was full of hope and was an incredible story of healing after heartbreak and finding yourself again.
I didn't want this book to ever end. The growth and healing that Mara goes through in this story was so raw and emotional, I really felt that her pain was my own. Her relationship with Arjun and the honesty and love that they shared was incredible.
I can't recommend this book enough. I'm so excited to read more of Leiby's work in the future.
October 21, 2023
Had me cryin in the lobby of my chiropractor… in a good way.
I feel like everyone can get something out of this book. Mara traverses sisterhood, heartbreak, friendship, romance, and journey of healing. An absolute perfect addition to your fall/winter reading list. I finished this book in a handful of days. It was digestible and easy to read without pandering. Everything about this book was cozy, like curling up with hot chocolate and a hallmark movie (but better).
Thank you Liz for sharing your debut novel with me! Give us more Mara and Arjun please!!!
I feel like everyone can get something out of this book. Mara traverses sisterhood, heartbreak, friendship, romance, and journey of healing. An absolute perfect addition to your fall/winter reading list. I finished this book in a handful of days. It was digestible and easy to read without pandering. Everything about this book was cozy, like curling up with hot chocolate and a hallmark movie (but better).
Thank you Liz for sharing your debut novel with me! Give us more Mara and Arjun please!!!
October 3, 2023
I brought this book with me on mg honeymoon and DEVOURED it in one day on the beach. Highly lovable characters had me giggling and rooting for them all day. On cloud nine it was so fun to read-will definitely revisit it.
September 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! Mara's journey of healing and rediscovering herself is expertly crafted by Liz Leiby. The writing was fantastic, I really enjoyed how she pulled me into the story through her prose.
Arjun is swoon worthy! Love a good man and cheese 🧀 ❤️
Her friendship with Dany and her sister were so fun to read.
This book was a joy to read.
Arjun is swoon worthy! Love a good man and cheese 🧀 ❤️
Her friendship with Dany and her sister were so fun to read.
This book was a joy to read.
October 31, 2023
I reallllly liked this book. It could have been a five star for me I feel. Mara was just a little too frustratingly annoying at some points. It was a super sweet read, I loved the journey of Mara feeling lost and finding herself again. It was very relatable, not being able to find a vision in your passions anymore. I would absolutely recommend reading this one!
February 2, 2023
Great book! I’m glad Mara allowed herself to be vulnerable. I could sense the tension when she was faced with exposure.
September 13, 2023
This is a quick, low stakes novel. No big revels. Pretty predictable plotline. A good beach read. Not a bad debut for a first time romance novelist. Hopefully future reads will be a little meatier or at least sexier.
January 29, 2023
This book ended my 5-year reading drought.
I bathed myself in its glorious cheese puns the way I engorge myself on water after jogging my lazy butt for 30 minutes on a treadmill.
Mara helped me rediscover my own creativity as a new mom, and that’s really fking cool.
A killer debut. Leiby dives into an emotional journey and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty.
I bathed myself in its glorious cheese puns the way I engorge myself on water after jogging my lazy butt for 30 minutes on a treadmill.
Mara helped me rediscover my own creativity as a new mom, and that’s really fking cool.
A killer debut. Leiby dives into an emotional journey and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty.
June 20, 2023
Love Again is a wonderful balance of a love story and the story of a woman finding herself again. I felt myself grow with Mara as she learned what she needed to find her happy and creativity again. There was a depth the Mara’s and Arjun’s relationship that I don’t find in many romance novels. Absolutely loved reading and can’t wait for Liz Leiby’s next novel.
September 11, 2023
TENDER, BRAVE, BRILLIANT! With humor and humility, this story unfolds and beckons. Liz leads the reader along a heartfelt path that reveals how trust, bravery, hope and love can reawaken a dimmed life and creative soul. The characters were so engaging that I found myself thinking about them while I was away from the open book. Warmth and charm prevail!
February 16, 2026
This was my first book by this author and I DEVOURED it. This story was just so good. It’s such a great representation of losing yourself, hitting bottom, and then finding the strength to discover who you are again. The romance in it was so darn cute, I was smiling every time Arjun showed up.
I cannot recommend this book enough!
I cannot recommend this book enough!
November 22, 2023
3.5/4: good love story - cute - Ok, I will say the 3rd act breakup was dumb - like how does someone that has known you 2 months get that much of a say about your professional life. Still overall enjoyed the book.
September 12, 2026
Wonderful Read
I really enjoyed Love Again. It makes me believe I too might have a chance. Liz thank you for sharing your talent with myself and your many other fans.
I really enjoyed Love Again. It makes me believe I too might have a chance. Liz thank you for sharing your talent with myself and your many other fans.
October 10, 2022
I really really liked this book. it’s not my preferred genre, but I was sucked in at the beginning and I seriously cared about these very 3 dimensional characters this author created. I love the subtle humor ( I want to go to the Gouda times cheese shop!) it all feels very real, and that’s exactly the experience I want with a book. I didn’t want it to be over, but I loved the satisfying ending and watching Mara grow and develop own self worth.
I received an ARC
I received an ARC
September 21, 2023
Overall, I liked this book and it was an easy read. It is the author's first book, so I'm willing to overlook a lot. My biggest pet peeve is the proofreading/editing ... whoever did it did the author no favors. I don't expect perfection, but it was enough to distract me occasionally. I'll still be reaching for her next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews