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Start Again #1
Start Again
One night. One accident. And her life was forever changed. Kate Taylor is searching for a way out.
A fresh start to finally put her haunting past to rest.
Out of options and willing to try just about anything, she sets off on a road trip across the country.
Her destination? Unknown.
That is until she encounters Ryan Grant, the irresistibly sexy and mysterious stranger with a past of his own.
One kiss, one touch and she's giving into everything she swore she wouldn't.
Rules are broken.
Attraction is turning to love.
And Kate's heart is once again on the line.
But when what she's been running from catches up with her, will Ryan be able to forgive her for the choices she makes?
A fresh start to finally put her haunting past to rest.
Out of options and willing to try just about anything, she sets off on a road trip across the country.
Her destination? Unknown.
That is until she encounters Ryan Grant, the irresistibly sexy and mysterious stranger with a past of his own.
One kiss, one touch and she's giving into everything she swore she wouldn't.
Rules are broken.
Attraction is turning to love.
And Kate's heart is once again on the line.
But when what she's been running from catches up with her, will Ryan be able to forgive her for the choices she makes?
288 pages, Paperback
First published July 24, 2016
542 people are currently reading
970 people want to read
About the author
J. Saman
56 books4,096 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:
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You can also follow her on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter!
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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 200 reviews
December 13, 2018
I'm very angry!!! Author is misleading in premise!!
First, it's not a safe read!! We've got a detailed sex scene with hero and some woman he met on the street!! ( They had it in some broom's closet of some New Orleans bar!! He knew he went on the street and in second he found some woman to fuck!! Not working for me!!! What a pig, a piece of shit!!!!))))) The heroine found out next day condom package and his shirt was with another woman's parfume.... I don't need this details, please, AUTHORS!! Note it down!! It's not romantic!!!
I was very disappointed. I knew the heroine was grieving her late husband and baby. I knew this!
Unlikable main characters, I didn't like them at all. The hero was some presumptuous asshole, but author wanted to picture him like this very nice guy ( he was dreaming about heroine for years, he was caring and understanding)... But he was a manho and He was a coward....
I didn't like this heroine. She said she missed sex, then they almost having sex and she said she couldn't do it... Please, make your mind!!!
She was grieving, I understand, but this - I love him - I love him not.... NO!!
First, it's not a safe read!! We've got a detailed sex scene with hero and some woman he met on the street!! ( They had it in some broom's closet of some New Orleans bar!! He knew he went on the street and in second he found some woman to fuck!! Not working for me!!! What a pig, a piece of shit!!!!))))) The heroine found out next day condom package and his shirt was with another woman's parfume.... I don't need this details, please, AUTHORS!! Note it down!! It's not romantic!!!
I was very disappointed. I knew the heroine was grieving her late husband and baby. I knew this!
Unlikable main characters, I didn't like them at all. The hero was some presumptuous asshole, but author wanted to picture him like this very nice guy ( he was dreaming about heroine for years, he was caring and understanding)... But he was a manho and He was a coward....
I didn't like this heroine. She said she missed sex, then they almost having sex and she said she couldn't do it... Please, make your mind!!!
She was grieving, I understand, but this - I love him - I love him not.... NO!!
October 8, 2017
I started to enjoy this book but then the so called hero after admitting to the heroine that she is special to him then goes and has sex with a whore. Lost all respect for the character. Didn't read anymore.
November 10, 2019
So cute...
September 12, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is pretty classy stuff. As someone who doesn’t normally read romances, I was interested to see if the author could hold my attention throughout when I pretty much know how the plot was going to play out. I’ve got to say; she could and did.
The first thing I liked about this novel is that it is really easy to read. The second thing is that it is really easy to read. No big words, no complexity, just 100% focus on the characters – which is great because this is a real journey for Kate from the nightmare of her current life state to a much better place. Author J. Saman has done a great job of setting her story on the road as it helps us as readers travel with Kate as she rides her emotions all the way through. I also liked the alternating chapter POV between Kate and beau Ryan as it helped drive the story and give us a broader view of events as they unfold.
The dialogue is superb in that it isn’t overwrought or gabby, in fact Saman leaves out just enough that her characters have room to think – even obsess – over the other’s thoughts and intentions. All this creates a wonderful turmoil that draws us on and on throughout the story.
Sure there were a few typos and errors here and there but – who cares? – if a story’s good enough, those things don’t matter. And guess what, they didn’t.
I’ll be reading J. Saman’s books again.
This is pretty classy stuff. As someone who doesn’t normally read romances, I was interested to see if the author could hold my attention throughout when I pretty much know how the plot was going to play out. I’ve got to say; she could and did.
The first thing I liked about this novel is that it is really easy to read. The second thing is that it is really easy to read. No big words, no complexity, just 100% focus on the characters – which is great because this is a real journey for Kate from the nightmare of her current life state to a much better place. Author J. Saman has done a great job of setting her story on the road as it helps us as readers travel with Kate as she rides her emotions all the way through. I also liked the alternating chapter POV between Kate and beau Ryan as it helped drive the story and give us a broader view of events as they unfold.
The dialogue is superb in that it isn’t overwrought or gabby, in fact Saman leaves out just enough that her characters have room to think – even obsess – over the other’s thoughts and intentions. All this creates a wonderful turmoil that draws us on and on throughout the story.
Sure there were a few typos and errors here and there but – who cares? – if a story’s good enough, those things don’t matter. And guess what, they didn’t.
I’ll be reading J. Saman’s books again.
October 9, 2016
She was living her dream life, married to her best friend, a beautiful daughter, and life couldn’t get any better. But it could get worse and for Kate, the night she was called to the emergency room would be the night her life became a living hell on earth. For two years she existed, barely and now it was time to change up her world, to try to start over, anywhere far away from the memories.
Ryan needs room to breathe, he also needs a ride across the country where his work is taking him. The son of one of her mother’s best friends, Kate is enlisted to drive him and their road trip begins, a little awkward, a little tenuous, but the beauty of the country must have thawed the wall Kate kept up, as she gets to know the boy from her childhood that she cannot remember.
As each mile goes by, they discover that spark, and a tenuous relationship begins, friends, good friends are being carved out of two wary strangers who have been battered by life and are afraid to trust in either their own judgement or that of others. Each carries a belly-full of secrets and fears, some more terrifying than others, but what they discover together is the most terrifying fear of all for Kate. How can she leave her past behind and love Ryan? He is everything she needs, but she is not ready to admit it, even as Ryan wears his heart on his sleeve and is willing to a chance on shaky ground and that’s when Kate runs…
J. Saman’s Start Again is tells a tale of second chances and digging oneself out of the despairs of life and how unfair it can be. It is knowing you cannot be good for anyone else until you are good with yourself. Sometimes sweet, with touches of humor and a little flirting, sometimes raw and heartbreaking, prepare yourself to be frustrated, happy and completely engaged in a story of love that grew over thousands of miles, which may or may not find its destination in the arms and heart of another. J. Saman has told a touching tale of past losses and accepting the hope the future may bring.
I received this copy from J. Saman in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: July 24, 2016
Publisher: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 266 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Ryan needs room to breathe, he also needs a ride across the country where his work is taking him. The son of one of her mother’s best friends, Kate is enlisted to drive him and their road trip begins, a little awkward, a little tenuous, but the beauty of the country must have thawed the wall Kate kept up, as she gets to know the boy from her childhood that she cannot remember.
As each mile goes by, they discover that spark, and a tenuous relationship begins, friends, good friends are being carved out of two wary strangers who have been battered by life and are afraid to trust in either their own judgement or that of others. Each carries a belly-full of secrets and fears, some more terrifying than others, but what they discover together is the most terrifying fear of all for Kate. How can she leave her past behind and love Ryan? He is everything she needs, but she is not ready to admit it, even as Ryan wears his heart on his sleeve and is willing to a chance on shaky ground and that’s when Kate runs…
J. Saman’s Start Again is tells a tale of second chances and digging oneself out of the despairs of life and how unfair it can be. It is knowing you cannot be good for anyone else until you are good with yourself. Sometimes sweet, with touches of humor and a little flirting, sometimes raw and heartbreaking, prepare yourself to be frustrated, happy and completely engaged in a story of love that grew over thousands of miles, which may or may not find its destination in the arms and heart of another. J. Saman has told a touching tale of past losses and accepting the hope the future may bring.
I received this copy from J. Saman in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: July 24, 2016
Publisher: J. Saman
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 266 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 7, 2016
Wow! What an overwhelming rollercoaster ride of a read! I couldn't put this down. The first part startles you and takes you straight to tears. The journey Kate (Katie) goes on is wonderful and enlightening. Ryan was her Prince once upon a time and she discovers that he still may very well be. She loved Eric and Maggie, and she knows she always will. There is no question that if they were alive, they would still be together. Beautiful description of love and family (together since age 12, sigh). What she realizes on this journey is that she doesn't have to give up her life and memories with her dearly departed ones. That is huge for her. One of my favorite things in the book is the phone call with her MIL. She sure pulled on my heartstrings there. I love the advice. I enjoyed reading the excursions and adventures these two went on. They really are perfect for ones another and it was a joy to read this kind of love developing. The only thing I would change was him in New Orleans. I could've done without that. This is a MUST read for those who love love stories. But have a box of tissues for that first part.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
October 27, 2016
Start Again drew me in from the very beginning. The prologue was really hard for me, as I had been in those exact same shoes. My then three year old son flatlined at the ER with me in the room. However, my experience had a much better ending, and I thank God every day that my son is still with me. But nonetheless, it brought back those lost forgotten feelings and memories. The writing is true in its detail at every level. It was extremely realistic and very hard to read. But that's life. Life IS hard. This story made me all the more grateful that our lives had very different paths. I feel very sorry for the people who were forced to follow the other path like Kate. But good for Kate for moving on. I think I somehow need to move on myself.
J. Saman is an excellent writer. She nailed the rest of the book just as well as she nailed the prologue. She draws the reader into the moment with excellent choice of detail. I feel what the characters feel, and the characters are trying their darndest to get their lives back together.
Ryan is simply dazzling. He's trying very hard to make it in life. We all know that's not easy. But when life presents him with that hot girl from his past, then he really comes alive. I love to follow Kate and Ryan's road trip, and Kate's return to mental health. It's beautifully developed along the way on how they get to know each other again and how their relationship flourishes. This book's a gut-wrenching in the best way ever!!
J. Saman is an excellent writer. She nailed the rest of the book just as well as she nailed the prologue. She draws the reader into the moment with excellent choice of detail. I feel what the characters feel, and the characters are trying their darndest to get their lives back together.
Ryan is simply dazzling. He's trying very hard to make it in life. We all know that's not easy. But when life presents him with that hot girl from his past, then he really comes alive. I love to follow Kate and Ryan's road trip, and Kate's return to mental health. It's beautifully developed along the way on how they get to know each other again and how their relationship flourishes. This book's a gut-wrenching in the best way ever!!
October 15, 2016
Reviewed by: Annie Arcane
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
A free copy was provided by the author.
Initial thoughts:
Incredible characters. Fantastic dialogue. Heartwrenching story. Amazing read!
What I loved:
I have a confession to make. This was number 5 on my TBR list. I had (and still have) 4 others to read and review first. Then I made the mistake of opening it…
The feels. OMG, the feels!
This story pulled at my heartstrings from page one and simply refused to let go. I wanted nothing more than to reach into my iPad and give Kate a big, squeezy hug. There was absolutely no way I could stop reading once I’d already started.
The descriptions were well-written and the characters extremely well-developed. I’m not only talking about the mains. The amount of personality Saman injected into ALL her characters was impressive, to say the least.
The dialogue was simple, straightforward, succinct, and absolute perfection! Let me show you what I mean…
A – MA – ZING.
As for Ryan and Kate? What a couple! They were both realistically flawed, entirely believable, and so likable that I was waving my pom-poms the whole time. And the connection between them? Sexy. Sweet. Undeniable.
What left me wanting:
While I enjoyed the relaxed pace, I was tempted to skim over the particularly slow parts. Don’t get me wrong, though. The characters never once lost my attention even when the plot stalled a bit. I just wanted to get back to the oh-so-good stuff.
There were quite a few punctuation issues throughout (the most common being no commas to introduce direct speech) and if I’m being honest, they were kind of distracting. Except that they really weren’t – yeah, I’m contradicting myself – because the writing was so darn brilliant that NOTHING could’ve taken away from this story.
At the end of the day? I loved it. My heart still hurts. It will for a while.
Final thoughts:
I would highly recommend this book to everyone. Yes, you heard me right. Everyone. If you’re a fan of contemporary romance, you need to read this!
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
A free copy was provided by the author.
Initial thoughts:
Incredible characters. Fantastic dialogue. Heartwrenching story. Amazing read!
What I loved:
I have a confession to make. This was number 5 on my TBR list. I had (and still have) 4 others to read and review first. Then I made the mistake of opening it…
The feels. OMG, the feels!
This story pulled at my heartstrings from page one and simply refused to let go. I wanted nothing more than to reach into my iPad and give Kate a big, squeezy hug. There was absolutely no way I could stop reading once I’d already started.
The descriptions were well-written and the characters extremely well-developed. I’m not only talking about the mains. The amount of personality Saman injected into ALL her characters was impressive, to say the least.
The dialogue was simple, straightforward, succinct, and absolute perfection! Let me show you what I mean…
A – MA – ZING.
As for Ryan and Kate? What a couple! They were both realistically flawed, entirely believable, and so likable that I was waving my pom-poms the whole time. And the connection between them? Sexy. Sweet. Undeniable.
What left me wanting:
While I enjoyed the relaxed pace, I was tempted to skim over the particularly slow parts. Don’t get me wrong, though. The characters never once lost my attention even when the plot stalled a bit. I just wanted to get back to the oh-so-good stuff.
There were quite a few punctuation issues throughout (the most common being no commas to introduce direct speech) and if I’m being honest, they were kind of distracting. Except that they really weren’t – yeah, I’m contradicting myself – because the writing was so darn brilliant that NOTHING could’ve taken away from this story.
At the end of the day? I loved it. My heart still hurts. It will for a while.
Final thoughts:
I would highly recommend this book to everyone. Yes, you heard me right. Everyone. If you’re a fan of contemporary romance, you need to read this!
Want to read
May 24, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (5/24/2018)!💝
Blurb:
One night. One accident. And my life was forever changed.
Determined to leave the memories that haunt me behind, I’m ready to drive across the country in search of a new place to live. But it seems nothing will pull me out of my dark hole.
That is until Ryan Grant comes along. His perfect abs, irresistible smirk, and piercing green eyes that seem to see through me are throwing me off balance. A balance I’m desperate to maintain.
One kiss, one touch and I’m giving into everything I swore I wouldn’t. This road trip was to be an escape from my past, and instead, I'm afraid I might be reliving it.
But when it all becomes too much for me to navigate through, will he forgive me for the choices I have to make?
Blurb:
One night. One accident. And my life was forever changed.
Determined to leave the memories that haunt me behind, I’m ready to drive across the country in search of a new place to live. But it seems nothing will pull me out of my dark hole.
That is until Ryan Grant comes along. His perfect abs, irresistible smirk, and piercing green eyes that seem to see through me are throwing me off balance. A balance I’m desperate to maintain.
One kiss, one touch and I’m giving into everything I swore I wouldn’t. This road trip was to be an escape from my past, and instead, I'm afraid I might be reliving it.
But when it all becomes too much for me to navigate through, will he forgive me for the choices I have to make?
September 29, 2019
This was an incredible journey both for the characters involved as well as the reader. Kate has experienced an unspeakable loss, life changing & after more than two years, can't seem to find her way out of her long suffering grief. Everything reminds her of her lost loves, her home, her place of work & her city. Living on the east coast, the only place she's ever called home, Kate decides to pack up, get in her car & drive. With no destination in mind, she just wants to start anew, see some great cities & will hopefully settle when a spot speaks to her, calms her & reaches out to her. Kate's mother has a friend with a son who doesn't fly, his fear is there with good reason & he needs to get to Seattle within a month for his new job. Ryan, whom Kate met when she was a child but does not remember him, agrees to travel with Kate, stopping at spots that interest them both. As the two enjoy parts of the country where each has never been, a very close friendship blossoms into the inevitable, a romance. Even though Kate is developing strong feelings for Ryan, guilt always takes hold & she is still incapable of letting go of what she had & lost. Ryan is just absolutely wonderful with Kate. His understanding is selfless & he will take whatever Kate is willing to give him. They are both dreading the day they reach Seattle when this wonderful yet painful journey will end.
I loved both characters & was really hoping Kate could find a way to channel her grief, forgive herself for finding and wanting a new life with some well deserved happiness. Ryan was a saint. I really can't see many men standing by Kate as she fell apart, many times throughout their road trip. At times it got old, but I had to remind myself that you can't put a time limit on grief. You can only do your best to try to come back from it & Kate did lose everything she ever loved. This was a very touching story with a wonderful epilogue. It's a stand alone with a second book involving some secondary characters. This was an incredible yet sad story to read.
I loved both characters & was really hoping Kate could find a way to channel her grief, forgive herself for finding and wanting a new life with some well deserved happiness. Ryan was a saint. I really can't see many men standing by Kate as she fell apart, many times throughout their road trip. At times it got old, but I had to remind myself that you can't put a time limit on grief. You can only do your best to try to come back from it & Kate did lose everything she ever loved. This was a very touching story with a wonderful epilogue. It's a stand alone with a second book involving some secondary characters. This was an incredible yet sad story to read.
July 31, 2016
Start Again
J. Saman
I received a copy from the author for an honest review.
Holy cow! START AGAIN just shredded my heart from the very first page. My heart broke for Katie and what she went through. Her husband Eric and her daughter Maggie are tragically killed by a drunk driver and obviously, Katie's life is destroyed. When a story has me in tears in the first chapter, I just know it is going to be like being on an emotional roller coaster and START AGAIN is just that.
J. Saman does a beautiful job with descriptions of places and peoples feelings and I was instantly sucked into Katie's life. She decides that she needs a change of scenery and goes on a cross country trip with the son of one of her mother's friends. Okay I'm not going to lie, Ryan became my hero almost from the very start. I wanted him to fall in love with Katie and show her that she still had a lot of living to do. She needed to move on and begin to be happy again and I truly believed Ryan was the one to show her that.
Wow wow wow!! I really loved START AGAIN. From the very first page I was emotionally invested in Katie and I just wanted her to be happy and to smile again. She was so young when her life was turned upside down and I cried when she cried and I love when an author does that to me. I felt like I was right there with her and I was holding my breath at the end of START AGAIN, praying nothing bad was going to happen. Please, you have to give J. Saman a try! You won't be sorry. I can't wait to read more by her and I'm praying she is busy writing Luke's story because I'm sure it will be just as awesome as START AGAIN is.
J. Saman
I received a copy from the author for an honest review.
Holy cow! START AGAIN just shredded my heart from the very first page. My heart broke for Katie and what she went through. Her husband Eric and her daughter Maggie are tragically killed by a drunk driver and obviously, Katie's life is destroyed. When a story has me in tears in the first chapter, I just know it is going to be like being on an emotional roller coaster and START AGAIN is just that.
J. Saman does a beautiful job with descriptions of places and peoples feelings and I was instantly sucked into Katie's life. She decides that she needs a change of scenery and goes on a cross country trip with the son of one of her mother's friends. Okay I'm not going to lie, Ryan became my hero almost from the very start. I wanted him to fall in love with Katie and show her that she still had a lot of living to do. She needed to move on and begin to be happy again and I truly believed Ryan was the one to show her that.
Wow wow wow!! I really loved START AGAIN. From the very first page I was emotionally invested in Katie and I just wanted her to be happy and to smile again. She was so young when her life was turned upside down and I cried when she cried and I love when an author does that to me. I felt like I was right there with her and I was holding my breath at the end of START AGAIN, praying nothing bad was going to happen. Please, you have to give J. Saman a try! You won't be sorry. I can't wait to read more by her and I'm praying she is busy writing Luke's story because I'm sure it will be just as awesome as START AGAIN is.
May 5, 2017
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review (Shut Up and Read group).
Wow this book was awesome! I enjoyed the hell out of it! It made me smile, made me cry, made me snort a laugh, made me hot, made me go "Awww sweet" all over it... it was packed with feeling and emotion.
Kate was a total mess. And depressed to a point of no return. She was strong for keeping the promise not to kill herself while she clearly didn't know how to live without her baby girl and husband. It must be really awful. She was in a really dark and ugly place and she made the right choice by leaving for a road trip. I liked her. But she was a real stubborn chick and I didn't like how she hurt Ryan. Maybe she was right in needing time for herself, but still, she could have maybe handled it differently. And surely, running away to Hawaii wasn't the best choice since she ended up hurting even more for her loss, at least until she started boxing. Her mother-in-law was really sweet and awesome.
Ryan... I totally loved him. He was clearly smitten with Katie since he was 10 and meeting her again now only got him more smitten and totally in love with her. He was really sweet and hot and sexy and swoon worthy. And damn it, when they were together sparks did actually fly. They were explosive together. I don't know how Kate could resist him that long. I mean, have you seen that body? And those green eyes? And that unruly, messed up, just-got-out-of-bed hair? And the love and passion shining through his eyes?
He wasn't perfect, sure. But who is? There were times I wanted to slap him, but really, he was only trying to protect his own heart. Although, it was obviously useless, and too late.
I totally loved this book and I recommend it. Beware of the emotional onslaught, though!
Wow this book was awesome! I enjoyed the hell out of it! It made me smile, made me cry, made me snort a laugh, made me hot, made me go "Awww sweet" all over it... it was packed with feeling and emotion.
Kate was a total mess. And depressed to a point of no return. She was strong for keeping the promise not to kill herself while she clearly didn't know how to live without her baby girl and husband. It must be really awful. She was in a really dark and ugly place and she made the right choice by leaving for a road trip. I liked her. But she was a real stubborn chick and I didn't like how she hurt Ryan. Maybe she was right in needing time for herself, but still, she could have maybe handled it differently. And surely, running away to Hawaii wasn't the best choice since she ended up hurting even more for her loss, at least until she started boxing. Her mother-in-law was really sweet and awesome.
Ryan... I totally loved him. He was clearly smitten with Katie since he was 10 and meeting her again now only got him more smitten and totally in love with her. He was really sweet and hot and sexy and swoon worthy. And damn it, when they were together sparks did actually fly. They were explosive together. I don't know how Kate could resist him that long. I mean, have you seen that body? And those green eyes? And that unruly, messed up, just-got-out-of-bed hair? And the love and passion shining through his eyes?
He wasn't perfect, sure. But who is? There were times I wanted to slap him, but really, he was only trying to protect his own heart. Although, it was obviously useless, and too late.
I totally loved this book and I recommend it. Beware of the emotional onslaught, though!
October 28, 2016
Fair warning, this book begins by ripping your heart out and slamming it down on a plate in front of you. Tragedy befalls Kate from page fucking one. And as a mom, I freely admit that I was sobbing like a little bitch.
Fast forward to two years later. Kate is a basket case (understandably so). So in the grand tradition of people who no longer have any fucks left to give, she decides a cross country road trip is in order. Her mother convinces her to at least take a childhood acquaintance along for her journey, since he is afraid to fly and needs to also be across the country within the next few weeks.
Can I just say that this back and forth exchange with her mother is just the realest thing ever? When Kate points out she doesn’t even know this dude, her mom answers thusly:
“You know him. I just told you. You met him when you were six.”
Mom logic. I accept this premise completely because I also have a mom.
Ryan is a 6’3 giant with a beard and glasses (I’m not sure if I should be picturing a hipster but what the hell, he’s moving to Seattle, so I did). Get the man some free trade coffee.
He’s cool, we know he is because he calls his mom a bitch, calls Kate's mom batshit crazy, and refuses to call Kate by anything other than ‘Katie’, despite Kate's protests.
I see.
My first impression of Ryan, therefore, was one of annoyance. But as the story progresses, he grew on me exponentially. He knows from the moment go that Kate has been through a lot and while others tiptoe around it and refuse to acknowledge the elephant in the room, he does the exact opposite. I thought it was incredibly endearing the way he talked to her about what had happened and helped her explore different ways to cope.
I also appreciate the author’s devotion to Kate’s mindset and mental health. The romance here is slow-building, with every step forward turning into several steps backwards for Kate when she cannot overcome the guilt inside her heart.
The two embark on a weeks-long road trip that brings them closer and closer. It’s a sweet story about love, loss, and learning to love again. Much mushiness. Cue the “I Don’t Wanna Wait” song.
Story is well written, dialogue is true to how people actually speak, which is something I always look for. POV switches up to give us insight into both characters, which is also nice because they each have a lot to say. I wish there had been a little more detail in the love scenes, because I'm a perv. Definitely a five star romance for those who can handle the emotional slap at the beginning!
Fast forward to two years later. Kate is a basket case (understandably so). So in the grand tradition of people who no longer have any fucks left to give, she decides a cross country road trip is in order. Her mother convinces her to at least take a childhood acquaintance along for her journey, since he is afraid to fly and needs to also be across the country within the next few weeks.
Can I just say that this back and forth exchange with her mother is just the realest thing ever? When Kate points out she doesn’t even know this dude, her mom answers thusly:
“You know him. I just told you. You met him when you were six.”
Mom logic. I accept this premise completely because I also have a mom.
Ryan is a 6’3 giant with a beard and glasses (I’m not sure if I should be picturing a hipster but what the hell, he’s moving to Seattle, so I did). Get the man some free trade coffee.
He’s cool, we know he is because he calls his mom a bitch, calls Kate's mom batshit crazy, and refuses to call Kate by anything other than ‘Katie’, despite Kate's protests.
I see.
My first impression of Ryan, therefore, was one of annoyance. But as the story progresses, he grew on me exponentially. He knows from the moment go that Kate has been through a lot and while others tiptoe around it and refuse to acknowledge the elephant in the room, he does the exact opposite. I thought it was incredibly endearing the way he talked to her about what had happened and helped her explore different ways to cope.
I also appreciate the author’s devotion to Kate’s mindset and mental health. The romance here is slow-building, with every step forward turning into several steps backwards for Kate when she cannot overcome the guilt inside her heart.
The two embark on a weeks-long road trip that brings them closer and closer. It’s a sweet story about love, loss, and learning to love again. Much mushiness. Cue the “I Don’t Wanna Wait” song.
Story is well written, dialogue is true to how people actually speak, which is something I always look for. POV switches up to give us insight into both characters, which is also nice because they each have a lot to say. I wish there had been a little more detail in the love scenes, because I'm a perv. Definitely a five star romance for those who can handle the emotional slap at the beginning!
March 2, 2017
J. Saman has done it again. Wow. This the second book I’ve read by this fantastic contemporary romance author, and I have to say, she just sweeps me away. From the very beginning, I get completely lost in the lives of her characters and forget that I’m reading. And I mean from the very beginning. I was crying (!) by the end of the freakin’ prologue.
Not a good start to a romance, you say? Well… the prologue really did just about kill me. Kate, a wonderfully happy and in love mother of a 2-year-old, is an ER nurse when her young daughter is brought in after a drunk driver has creamed the car hubby was driving. Neither hubby or daughter make it. As a mother, it just ripped my heart out to read this scene… not just because of the subject matter, but also because of the exquisite(ly painful) way it was written.
So… great set up. Will Kate ever recover from this devastating loss? Will she ever be able to love again? Does she even want to?
This was a terrific story of love and loss and the long, long road to healing that can only be accomplished with hard work, sweat, tears… and trust. And maybe a little bit of help from gorgeous, mysterious Ryan.
Well done. I will definitely be reading the second book in the series. I strongly recommend this book to lovers of contemporary romance.
Not a good start to a romance, you say? Well… the prologue really did just about kill me. Kate, a wonderfully happy and in love mother of a 2-year-old, is an ER nurse when her young daughter is brought in after a drunk driver has creamed the car hubby was driving. Neither hubby or daughter make it. As a mother, it just ripped my heart out to read this scene… not just because of the subject matter, but also because of the exquisite(ly painful) way it was written.
So… great set up. Will Kate ever recover from this devastating loss? Will she ever be able to love again? Does she even want to?
This was a terrific story of love and loss and the long, long road to healing that can only be accomplished with hard work, sweat, tears… and trust. And maybe a little bit of help from gorgeous, mysterious Ryan.
Well done. I will definitely be reading the second book in the series. I strongly recommend this book to lovers of contemporary romance.
December 13, 2016
Kate Taylor's husband, Eric, and her two-year-old daughter, Maggie, are both killed in a car crash. Two years later Kate is surviving day to day and decides to take off on a road trip in an effort to escape her demons. Her mother suggests taking along her friend's son, Ryan, who's moving to Seattle. Apparantely, Ryan and Kate have met before as children but Kate has no recollection of this. So begins a month long trip from Boston.
Ryan and Kate are both well developed characters. Whilst the chemistry between them is undeniable, Kate is still in love with Eric and believes that to love another man would be a betrayal. She is consumed with grief, unable to see any way out of her despair.
Ryan is patient and understanding. He persuades Kate to see that there can be a future for her. Even though he's falling in love with her, he tries to control his growing feelings and encourages her to talk about Eric and Maggie.
As the road trip progresses, feelings between Ryan and Kate grow deeper. Although she makes it clear she's not ready for a relationship, Ryan is prepared to wait for her. Slowly Kate opens up to Ryan and begins to confide in him.
This beautifully written story is both touching and sad. It deals with so many emotions: loss, grief, fear and, above all, love and its power to heal.
Highly recommended.
November 18, 2016
First let me say I loved every minute of reading this book. Ms. Saman filled it with so many emotions: love, loss, grief, happiness, lust, fear, humor.
A drunk driver sends Kate’s husband and child to the emergency room where she works as a nurse. Her husband is pronounced dead at the scene and her two year old daughter dies in her arms. I thank my lucky stars that I’ve never experienced the loss of a child, but the chapter is written so powerfully, I sobbed for the character’s loss.
Understandably, Kate has difficulty moving on. After two years of trying, she decides the only way she can distance herself from the reminders of her lost family is to put physical distance between them. When she tells her mother of her plans to move away, her mother twists her arm into taking along her friend’s son – ostensibly for company and protection. But her friend’s son, Ryan, turns out to be a man who’s been infatuated with Kate since they were children.
The road trip lasts a month, during which time Kate and Ryan share adventures, tons of food, and eventually each other. Ryan is totally in, but Kate needs time. She’s still not over her loss.
I won’t give away the ending, but it’s beautiful. As I said in the beginning, I loved this book and I hope to read many more by Ms. Saman.
A drunk driver sends Kate’s husband and child to the emergency room where she works as a nurse. Her husband is pronounced dead at the scene and her two year old daughter dies in her arms. I thank my lucky stars that I’ve never experienced the loss of a child, but the chapter is written so powerfully, I sobbed for the character’s loss.
Understandably, Kate has difficulty moving on. After two years of trying, she decides the only way she can distance herself from the reminders of her lost family is to put physical distance between them. When she tells her mother of her plans to move away, her mother twists her arm into taking along her friend’s son – ostensibly for company and protection. But her friend’s son, Ryan, turns out to be a man who’s been infatuated with Kate since they were children.
The road trip lasts a month, during which time Kate and Ryan share adventures, tons of food, and eventually each other. Ryan is totally in, but Kate needs time. She’s still not over her loss.
I won’t give away the ending, but it’s beautiful. As I said in the beginning, I loved this book and I hope to read many more by Ms. Saman.
November 1, 2016
Let me start by saying J Saman is a new to me author. Start Again had me gripped from the first page. It reeled me in and wouldn't let go. The emotion portrayed by the author is beautiful and heartbreaking. Katie is an extremely lovable character and at times broke my heart. Ryan is a strong handsome bear of a man who is not afraid to show his feelings. You will smile, you will cry and you will fall in love with these two. Start again is story of recovery from heartbreak of the worst kind and finding the heart and strength to move on. I would highly recommend this book and will certainly be reading the rest in this series.
December 3, 2016
Start Again is novel about the romance of two characters forced to confront tragedy and attempt to take stock of things and find comfort in each other. Kate is a nurse who suffered a terrible loss while Ryan was involved in a plane accident that makes him weary of flying. Together they take a road trip to explore the United States, from Boston to New Orleans to Vegas and finally Seattle.
I thought Start Again was an interesting and light hearted story with generally positive characters that struggle to deal with loss and connect with each other in the midst of a road trip. The constant change in setting made for an interesting backdrop and as I had been to some of the places in the novel it helped me to connect with the story.
Though, it is not a perfect story. The book is told from the first person point of view and changes from Kate's to Ryan's every so often. But, at times I hard a time distinguishing between Ryan and Kate, as if they were almost the same person. Specifically, it felt like Ryan's parts were written from a woman's perspective. This is an example from a chapter told from Ryan's perspective:
"My arms wrap around her in an instant, and I pull her tightly against me, taking her mouth like a starving man who’s found the best tasting food in the world. Dammit, I’ve missed her lips, her taste, her smell, her touch. I’m dizzy. I’m lost. I’m never coming up for air again. Everything I need to survive is in my arms right now, and I’m never letting go. Ever."
I just don't think men think in these terms, so I thought it was a little bit of a stretch.
Also, I thought it was kind of off putting that many of the male characters (other than Ryan) were portrayed as villains, at the gym or bar trying making lewd comments and harassing Kate.
But, overall I thought it was a good story.
I thought Start Again was an interesting and light hearted story with generally positive characters that struggle to deal with loss and connect with each other in the midst of a road trip. The constant change in setting made for an interesting backdrop and as I had been to some of the places in the novel it helped me to connect with the story.
Though, it is not a perfect story. The book is told from the first person point of view and changes from Kate's to Ryan's every so often. But, at times I hard a time distinguishing between Ryan and Kate, as if they were almost the same person. Specifically, it felt like Ryan's parts were written from a woman's perspective. This is an example from a chapter told from Ryan's perspective:
"My arms wrap around her in an instant, and I pull her tightly against me, taking her mouth like a starving man who’s found the best tasting food in the world. Dammit, I’ve missed her lips, her taste, her smell, her touch. I’m dizzy. I’m lost. I’m never coming up for air again. Everything I need to survive is in my arms right now, and I’m never letting go. Ever."
I just don't think men think in these terms, so I thought it was a little bit of a stretch.
Also, I thought it was kind of off putting that many of the male characters (other than Ryan) were portrayed as villains, at the gym or bar trying making lewd comments and harassing Kate.
But, overall I thought it was a good story.
September 3, 2016
I received free copy of this book for an honest review.
I don't normally read romance. I am more a hardcore fantasy, hack and slash, fast paced magic reader. But reading Start Again was a very nice experience, and I will actually start reading this genre :)
Start Again tells love story of Kate and Ryan. It started out with a tragedy that happened to Kate, which has put her in a traumatized condition. She was trying to leave everything behind, start by driving around the country, In hope to find a new place to live and a fresh start. Thats is when a son of her mom's friend, that actually is an old long forgotten friend of her, came and tag along.
This story is seemingly simple, but it grips me from the very start. The story is being told in a very nice flowing way, using two pov (both Kate and Ryan). It interesting to see struggle of wanting to get in, and need to pull back, from both point of view. And It keep pulling me to wants to know more.
The love scene (which is actually lots but I still want more :)) are nice and always make me smile.
And from the way the journey is being told, well, I dont know much about the geography in america, but I can tell that the author has done lots of research. Or ... Is it something that the author has experienced herself? I am certainly jealous :)
Congrats J Saman for a Beautiful Story.
I don't normally read romance. I am more a hardcore fantasy, hack and slash, fast paced magic reader. But reading Start Again was a very nice experience, and I will actually start reading this genre :)
Start Again tells love story of Kate and Ryan. It started out with a tragedy that happened to Kate, which has put her in a traumatized condition. She was trying to leave everything behind, start by driving around the country, In hope to find a new place to live and a fresh start. Thats is when a son of her mom's friend, that actually is an old long forgotten friend of her, came and tag along.
This story is seemingly simple, but it grips me from the very start. The story is being told in a very nice flowing way, using two pov (both Kate and Ryan). It interesting to see struggle of wanting to get in, and need to pull back, from both point of view. And It keep pulling me to wants to know more.
The love scene (which is actually lots but I still want more :)) are nice and always make me smile.
And from the way the journey is being told, well, I dont know much about the geography in america, but I can tell that the author has done lots of research. Or ... Is it something that the author has experienced herself? I am certainly jealous :)
Congrats J Saman for a Beautiful Story.
November 7, 2016
Let me start by admitting that I’m not normally a fan of romance, but the touch of depth and emotion in this story kept me engaged and turning the pages. First of all, from a technical perspective, this is a very clean piece – something hard to find among indy work. I did notice a couple typos, but overall sentence structure, pacing, grammar etc. were nearly perfect. But all that just makes the story readable, what made it good was the real, deep characters, their highly believable interactions, their stories of loss, and the privilege of watching them overcome their pasts.
The reasons I gave 4 stars instead of 5: For me, 5 stars is book that makes me forget I’m reading and that stays with me even after I put it away. This story, although fantastic, didn’t quite cross the bar (few books do). A few of the loss reactions just didn’t feel completely real to me and the romance itself was a little immature and lusty for my tastes. But new romances are often immature and I could easily see how that would be what someone would need to overcome the loss Katie suffered. Regardless, it was certainly fun to read with plenty of wish-fulfillment moments. I imagine for any true fan of romance, this book would easily pass the 5-star mark.
The reasons I gave 4 stars instead of 5: For me, 5 stars is book that makes me forget I’m reading and that stays with me even after I put it away. This story, although fantastic, didn’t quite cross the bar (few books do). A few of the loss reactions just didn’t feel completely real to me and the romance itself was a little immature and lusty for my tastes. But new romances are often immature and I could easily see how that would be what someone would need to overcome the loss Katie suffered. Regardless, it was certainly fun to read with plenty of wish-fulfillment moments. I imagine for any true fan of romance, this book would easily pass the 5-star mark.
April 21, 2017
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
This was very easy read which I liked. I usually do not like second chance romance or romance with diseased spouse and or children.The author made me want to give more in this section a chance.
Kate the main character was easy to connect with and like. I usually have a hard time relating to most main female characters of romance novels but not this one. I hate perfect characters and both Kate and Ryan had just enough flaws.
The only thing I really didn't care for was Kate and Ryan both had the perfect character going looks wise .There were a few to many times where Kate had guys going crazy over her, maybe just a little too much , although most of the guys were total creepers who may have just been the type to hit anyone.
Very well edited which I really appreciate, I find it hard to like a book that has a lot of grammar mistakes or when they miss mistakes like using the wrong name.
Would highly recommend.
This was very easy read which I liked. I usually do not like second chance romance or romance with diseased spouse and or children.The author made me want to give more in this section a chance.
Kate the main character was easy to connect with and like. I usually have a hard time relating to most main female characters of romance novels but not this one. I hate perfect characters and both Kate and Ryan had just enough flaws.
The only thing I really didn't care for was Kate and Ryan both had the perfect character going looks wise .There were a few to many times where Kate had guys going crazy over her, maybe just a little too much , although most of the guys were total creepers who may have just been the type to hit anyone.
Very well edited which I really appreciate, I find it hard to like a book that has a lot of grammar mistakes or when they miss mistakes like using the wrong name.
Would highly recommend.
February 11, 2017
Beautiful romance story and wonderfully paced. I loved Katie and Ryan- gorgeous couple.
This story packs a punch right from the beginning consuming you with the pain and bereavement Kate has to go through. Totally absorbing.
I felt i needed to know Eric more. He was the total contrast to Ryan and respectfully very important to kate and the love of her life.I could picture Maggie and the pain was unbearable. If you have children, nieces, nephews, even grandchildren. This very part will touch a nerve.
The Author takes you on a fabulous journey in the story coupled with emotional highs and lows and will literally have the reader crying with joy in the end. A very, very,satisfying read.
Have a box of tissues at the ready! and you're favourite chocolates.
Thank you J .Saman
September 22, 2016
Kate has gone through a big struggle after a tragic accident and is still quite scattered after a couple of years. May be a cross country road trip will help. But do things ever turn out the way we want? May be so in this case. May be not. Will she find her dream boy in Ryan, or will he turn into someone she would never like to meet?
J. Saman has nailed it. A beautiful story that I couldn't just put down until I was done.
J. Saman has nailed it. A beautiful story that I couldn't just put down until I was done.
July 10, 2017
Once I started reading this emotional roller coaster of a story, I couldn't stop. From the very first chapter, I was captivated by the empathy I felt for the characters, drawn in by the realistic portrayal of grief and devastation. The romance was hard won, and I was so happy to see these two characters find happiness with each other after all they had been through. Absolutely fantastic book, in every way.
May 21, 2017
I could not finish this one. You may love it. The heroine got on my nerves. I felt the writing was a bit wordy. I do not need to know what you wear, eat, or order. Parts of the story felt like fillers. The writing style did not work for me. I was disappointed since I liked the premise.
October 6, 2017
This is my first book by J Saman and boy! What a book. I loved the twists and uncommunicated, mixed up emotions. The story just flowed along smoothly. I felt a part of their lives. I couldn't put this book down, it was very addictive.
I love their relationship between Abby and Aubrey. They have the 'twin thing' and can communicate with just a look. Xander, Aubrey's best friend, is a complicated creature; so hot and cold…does he love or hate Abby? It's difficult to tell. Men are so hard to read sometimes! The banter between Abby, her twin and her best friend Nina is so funny too. I have lived a section of their lives and loved every second.
Xander is vile to Abby, yet he is also super protective. He is her brother’s best friend after all. He won't look Abby in the eyes; he says spiteful things that cut like a knife... why? When Abby meets Brandon she sees a way to get over her feelings for her brothers bff. Brandon seems perfect, but something is off. What could possibly be the cause of Xander's behaviour towards Abby and what is going on with Brandon?
I am a new fan of this author and will be reading more books by J Saman for sure. You need to read this story to find out more. You won't regret it.
I love their relationship between Abby and Aubrey. They have the 'twin thing' and can communicate with just a look. Xander, Aubrey's best friend, is a complicated creature; so hot and cold…does he love or hate Abby? It's difficult to tell. Men are so hard to read sometimes! The banter between Abby, her twin and her best friend Nina is so funny too. I have lived a section of their lives and loved every second.
Xander is vile to Abby, yet he is also super protective. He is her brother’s best friend after all. He won't look Abby in the eyes; he says spiteful things that cut like a knife... why? When Abby meets Brandon she sees a way to get over her feelings for her brothers bff. Brandon seems perfect, but something is off. What could possibly be the cause of Xander's behaviour towards Abby and what is going on with Brandon?
I am a new fan of this author and will be reading more books by J Saman for sure. You need to read this story to find out more. You won't regret it.
April 25, 2017
The Goodreads group Read It & Reap provided a copy of the eBook in exchange for an honest review.
J. Saman’s Contemporary Romance Start Again introduces the reader to Kate’s world. Kate has become paralysed with grief after the loss of her daughter and husband. She somehow wants to escape the pain and decides to take a cross-country road trip. Her mother insists that she travel with a companion. Kate does not remember Ryan as they met as children but agrees to travel with him. The reader will feel the instant connection between these two likeable characters. The voyage is told between alternating points of view. The strength of the well-developed characters sets the tone for this touching read. Kate and Ryan have clear and identifiable voices and behaviours. Ryan’s patience is truly endearing. The author deals with the many stages of bereavement with compassion. Is Kate ready to start again? Looking forward to the next instalment in this character driven series.
J. Saman’s Contemporary Romance Start Again introduces the reader to Kate’s world. Kate has become paralysed with grief after the loss of her daughter and husband. She somehow wants to escape the pain and decides to take a cross-country road trip. Her mother insists that she travel with a companion. Kate does not remember Ryan as they met as children but agrees to travel with him. The reader will feel the instant connection between these two likeable characters. The voyage is told between alternating points of view. The strength of the well-developed characters sets the tone for this touching read. Kate and Ryan have clear and identifiable voices and behaviours. Ryan’s patience is truly endearing. The author deals with the many stages of bereavement with compassion. Is Kate ready to start again? Looking forward to the next instalment in this character driven series.
September 28, 2016
Damn you, J.Saman...You made me cry within 2 minutes of reading your book, I think that was a record. This book just had every emotion and had my feelings going in every direction but have no fear y'all, I loved the bejesus out of this book. Never mind me in the corner trying to hide my tears from my son who is staring at me like I've lost my mind.
Starting Again is about just that, starting again when you've lost everything familiar to you. Is there happiness or even love after devastation? These are questions that Kate Taylor is asking herself, after suffering a devastating loss. Start Again takes you on a journey of heartbreak, adventure, friendship and romance. This story displays a plethora of emotion and with the turn of each page you never know what you're going to experience next, but its completely worth picking up and reading.
Kate Taylor is an emotional and complex sweetheart. She's surviving day to day and has decided to hit the road to find her new normal. Kate's character is believable and to me that's such a big deal when writing about loss and moving on. She's undeniably beautiful with her long platinum hair, clear blue eyes and rocking body, but more than that she's got a beautiful soul despite what she's been through. As her character transitions she shows her flirty and sensual side and I love it. She is such a breath of fresh air when it comes to a female character who is honest with her feelings and conveying them. I could read about Kate all day.
Ryan Grant is a scaredy cat when it comes to flying, so its a good thing a blast from the past is able to help him out and take him along with her on her journey to self discovery and a new place to live. Ryan is physically my dream man with dark hair and green eyes it also doesn't help that he's flirty, nerdy and dirty. Ryan really comes off as this cool laid back, down for whatever guy. He complements Kate completely, she's a little crazy, he's a stabilizer, she's emotional, he's understanding, she's sexy, he's sexy. Ryan never seems to tip toe around the elephant in the room when it comes to Kate's issues even though he does use kids gloves when talking to her about them. He's the perfect blend of manly and sweetheart and lets just say I've added him to my list of book boyfriends I wish really existed.
Kate and Ryan make their way across country leaving a different memory behind in each state becoming better friends along the way. What happens when you want it to become more than friends? Chemistry is what happens, chemistry of the hottest kind. But is it enough to help squelch the demons of your past that refuse to let you move on? Ryan and Kate's journey makes you wish you could hop in your car and just set out on self discovery just to see what happens.
I highly recommend Start Again and give it 4 stars.
Starting Again is about just that, starting again when you've lost everything familiar to you. Is there happiness or even love after devastation? These are questions that Kate Taylor is asking herself, after suffering a devastating loss. Start Again takes you on a journey of heartbreak, adventure, friendship and romance. This story displays a plethora of emotion and with the turn of each page you never know what you're going to experience next, but its completely worth picking up and reading.
Kate Taylor is an emotional and complex sweetheart. She's surviving day to day and has decided to hit the road to find her new normal. Kate's character is believable and to me that's such a big deal when writing about loss and moving on. She's undeniably beautiful with her long platinum hair, clear blue eyes and rocking body, but more than that she's got a beautiful soul despite what she's been through. As her character transitions she shows her flirty and sensual side and I love it. She is such a breath of fresh air when it comes to a female character who is honest with her feelings and conveying them. I could read about Kate all day.
Ryan Grant is a scaredy cat when it comes to flying, so its a good thing a blast from the past is able to help him out and take him along with her on her journey to self discovery and a new place to live. Ryan is physically my dream man with dark hair and green eyes it also doesn't help that he's flirty, nerdy and dirty. Ryan really comes off as this cool laid back, down for whatever guy. He complements Kate completely, she's a little crazy, he's a stabilizer, she's emotional, he's understanding, she's sexy, he's sexy. Ryan never seems to tip toe around the elephant in the room when it comes to Kate's issues even though he does use kids gloves when talking to her about them. He's the perfect blend of manly and sweetheart and lets just say I've added him to my list of book boyfriends I wish really existed.
Kate and Ryan make their way across country leaving a different memory behind in each state becoming better friends along the way. What happens when you want it to become more than friends? Chemistry is what happens, chemistry of the hottest kind. But is it enough to help squelch the demons of your past that refuse to let you move on? Ryan and Kate's journey makes you wish you could hop in your car and just set out on self discovery just to see what happens.
I highly recommend Start Again and give it 4 stars.
December 6, 2016
I noticed the large number of five star reviews for Start Again and read many of them. Since potential buyers often check lower reviews, I wanted to make sure my review did not dissuade people from considering this book. I must be a Sheldon Cooper type, low on the autism spectrum of understanding and appreciating romance novels. Start Again is about Kate, who lost her husband and young daughter to a drunk driver. She is conflicted about starting a new relationship with Ryan. I have two concerns about Start Again.
One, the setting in most cases is almost nonexistent. This is a road book, but we are hardly ever in the car. The different cities are not different, all are pretty much described as being beautiful when viewed from the luxury hotel room, some with nice sunsets. All the bars were crowded, dark and loud. Instead of being transported to interesting places, I’m stuck sitting in my living room listening to conversations and occasionally watching Kate and Ryan take off their clothes. Perhaps setting in romance novels is the hero’s broad shoulders and piercing green eyes and the woman’s curvature and the amount of heat she generates. That we had in abundance.
Two was the theme and how it played out. Losing a child is psychologically devastating. Most marriages, for example, fail to survive such trauma. Re-establishing any sense of normalcy is exceedingly difficult. A book about this loss would have to be, or should be, character driven. The sense I had of this one was the author had an ending in mind and ensured the characters did what was needed to reach that end. Conflicts on the way to the goal were regular, evenly sequenced, frustratingly repetitive and ultimately, uninteresting.
The writing was good, casual, with occasional author intrusions such as “Did I say he had a great chest?” that normally disrupt the narrative tone but in this case added to a sense of inclusion. Most reviewers cried, loved the characters, rejoiced and cried some more. I did not. I blame myself.
One, the setting in most cases is almost nonexistent. This is a road book, but we are hardly ever in the car. The different cities are not different, all are pretty much described as being beautiful when viewed from the luxury hotel room, some with nice sunsets. All the bars were crowded, dark and loud. Instead of being transported to interesting places, I’m stuck sitting in my living room listening to conversations and occasionally watching Kate and Ryan take off their clothes. Perhaps setting in romance novels is the hero’s broad shoulders and piercing green eyes and the woman’s curvature and the amount of heat she generates. That we had in abundance.
Two was the theme and how it played out. Losing a child is psychologically devastating. Most marriages, for example, fail to survive such trauma. Re-establishing any sense of normalcy is exceedingly difficult. A book about this loss would have to be, or should be, character driven. The sense I had of this one was the author had an ending in mind and ensured the characters did what was needed to reach that end. Conflicts on the way to the goal were regular, evenly sequenced, frustratingly repetitive and ultimately, uninteresting.
The writing was good, casual, with occasional author intrusions such as “Did I say he had a great chest?” that normally disrupt the narrative tone but in this case added to a sense of inclusion. Most reviewers cried, loved the characters, rejoiced and cried some more. I did not. I blame myself.
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