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Falling #1
[Never] Again
Just when she had finally moved on…
…He moved back.
When college freshman Liz Wagner hears her ex's voice for the first time since he moved clear across the freaking country, she does what any respectable girl would Dive into the girls' bathroom.
Zach Roberts—the Zach Roberts—is back. And he’s everywhere Liz looks—infiltrating her friend group, buddy-buddy with her brother. It’s enough to ruin college altogether. But what choice does she have but to put on a happy face and pretend he didn't leave her vulnerable and alone in a pile of emotional wreckage?
Pretending works, until tragedy strikes and the only person available for comfort is the one person she wants to stay away from. When Zach turns out not to be the jerk she convinced herself he was, but the boy she used to love, Liz needs to decide whether to open her heart again to the boy who tore it out.
…He moved back.
When college freshman Liz Wagner hears her ex's voice for the first time since he moved clear across the freaking country, she does what any respectable girl would Dive into the girls' bathroom.
Zach Roberts—the Zach Roberts—is back. And he’s everywhere Liz looks—infiltrating her friend group, buddy-buddy with her brother. It’s enough to ruin college altogether. But what choice does she have but to put on a happy face and pretend he didn't leave her vulnerable and alone in a pile of emotional wreckage?
Pretending works, until tragedy strikes and the only person available for comfort is the one person she wants to stay away from. When Zach turns out not to be the jerk she convinced herself he was, but the boy she used to love, Liz needs to decide whether to open her heart again to the boy who tore it out.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2013
202 people are currently reading
1396 people want to read
About the author
Theresa Paolo
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Short bio:
Romance author, lover of books, 90's pop music and happily ever afters. Writes YA under Tessa Marie.
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Theresa Paolo lives in Long Island, NY with her fiancé and their fish. She writes steamy small-town romances with sassy heroines, sexy heroes and feisty townspeople. When she's not writing, she's reading, brewery hopping, or daydreaming. She loves coffee, all things Christmas and fall, and making lists.
She also writes YA romance under Tessa Marie.
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Amazon: http://amzn.to/2sDLm4v
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2uhOCa5
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2taVwy8
B&N: http://bit.ly/2u6lUcr
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2rmPYfl
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2pGF0E6
iBooks: http://apple.co/2qNthUA
Sign up for my newsletter and receive a FREE book: http://eepurl.com/_PwjL
Short bio:
Romance author, lover of books, 90's pop music and happily ever afters. Writes YA under Tessa Marie.
Long bio:
Theresa Paolo lives in Long Island, NY with her fiancé and their fish. She writes steamy small-town romances with sassy heroines, sexy heroes and feisty townspeople. When she's not writing, she's reading, brewery hopping, or daydreaming. She loves coffee, all things Christmas and fall, and making lists.
She also writes YA romance under Tessa Marie.
For updates on upcoming releases and sales, sign up to receive Theresa's newsletter: http://www.theresapaolo.com/p/sign-up-fo...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheresaPaoloAut...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheresaMarieP
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theresamariep/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/71...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresamariep/
Blog: http://www.theresapaolo.com/
If you subscribe to Bookbub make sure to give me a follow: http://bit.ly/2voBXyF
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
November 19, 2014
Quick review for a quick read. Honestly, it wasn't as if I disliked "(Never) Again" for its intentions or writing. Theresa Paolo knew how to move through the narrative's story and knew how to get into Liz's mindset as she toggles between her present life and the past as a former lover comes back into the picture after leaving her in a world of hurt.
But, and this is a big but, much of this story came across on a very surface level. A lot of the conflict really felt unexplored for emotion and while the events should've been jarring and connected with me, they didn't. Liz came across with a shallow perspective and while I could understand that's part of personality and lending to her circumstances, I think that prevented me, alongside the delivery of events in this novel, from completely connecting with it.
Liz thought she'd gotten over Zach when he was her first love and disappeared without so much as a goodbye. But now he's back and Liz is furious and wants nothing to do with him. She has a boyfriend (Joe), she has a new plan for her life (didn't get into her dream university, settled for another), she has new hobbies (quit baking, which was a passion of hers, but she left it by the wayside when Zach left). But Zach starts connecting with her friends, and somehow trying to make himself a part of her life, and Liz is having none of it.
Except that she is. She learns the real reason why he left, and neither one of them have gotten over the other. I feel like there were too many "convenient" circumstances in this novel to make Liz and Zach's relationship work (Joe's growing distance, Liz and Zach bonding over a tragedy that befalls Liz's brother, everyone pretty much telling Liz that Joe is bad for her, etc.) That's the reason why I didn't connect, something about it just didn't feel natural to me, and I couldn't believe in it beyond what was essentially a formulaic story.
It was a quick read, and I'll say that I saw where the narrative was going and it's a bit better structured than some novels I've come across in this genre, but in the end, it needed far, far more to carry it.
Overall score: 1.5/5 stars
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Intermix.
But, and this is a big but, much of this story came across on a very surface level. A lot of the conflict really felt unexplored for emotion and while the events should've been jarring and connected with me, they didn't. Liz came across with a shallow perspective and while I could understand that's part of personality and lending to her circumstances, I think that prevented me, alongside the delivery of events in this novel, from completely connecting with it.
Liz thought she'd gotten over Zach when he was her first love and disappeared without so much as a goodbye. But now he's back and Liz is furious and wants nothing to do with him. She has a boyfriend (Joe), she has a new plan for her life (didn't get into her dream university, settled for another), she has new hobbies (quit baking, which was a passion of hers, but she left it by the wayside when Zach left). But Zach starts connecting with her friends, and somehow trying to make himself a part of her life, and Liz is having none of it.
Except that she is. She learns the real reason why he left, and neither one of them have gotten over the other. I feel like there were too many "convenient" circumstances in this novel to make Liz and Zach's relationship work (Joe's growing distance, Liz and Zach bonding over a tragedy that befalls Liz's brother, everyone pretty much telling Liz that Joe is bad for her, etc.) That's the reason why I didn't connect, something about it just didn't feel natural to me, and I couldn't believe in it beyond what was essentially a formulaic story.
It was a quick read, and I'll say that I saw where the narrative was going and it's a bit better structured than some novels I've come across in this genre, but in the end, it needed far, far more to carry it.
Overall score: 1.5/5 stars
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Intermix.
November 17, 2016
—Casi abandonado—
Aburrido, cliché y muy adolescente para mi gusto.
Aburrido, cliché y muy adolescente para mi gusto.
July 16, 2013
Holy crappit, this book was beyond amazing.
Lizzie and Zach have unbelievable chemistry. The kind that makes you want them to just jump each other every time they're together, but you know they won't. So when they do... gah, it's like YES! Totally awesome.
I love the storyline, filled with heartbreak, but also filled with just the right amount of humor. Zach's jokes were hilarious, and his relationship with Lizzie's brother Josh is so bromantic, I wish I could find two guys who look like them and take a picture of them hugging, ha!
Lizzie has a great voice. Enticing and lovable, and you want to reach in and hug her and smack her all at once. She's a worry wart over her brother, a best friend to her roommate, and a girlfriend who wants so much to be number one priority in a relationship she's desperately trying to make work. And when her first love, Zach, pops back in town, she finds the courage and strength to do things for her, while still keeping up her selflessness. She's a wonderful female lead.
Zach is everything in a book boyfriend. Funny, passionate, and he loves Lizzie with all he can. He's got a good heart, and holds back as much as he can control around Liz to protect her even if it's killing him. Plus... he's hot. So there's that ;)
(Never) Again is a beautiful, light, fun love story that also has that dose of dramatic that makes you tear up, but leaves you with a satisfied smile when you read that last page. Definitely a book I'll read over and over, just to put that smile back on my face.
Wonderful debut, Theresa Paolo. Can't wait to see what else is coming from your genius. :)
Lizzie and Zach have unbelievable chemistry. The kind that makes you want them to just jump each other every time they're together, but you know they won't. So when they do... gah, it's like YES! Totally awesome.
I love the storyline, filled with heartbreak, but also filled with just the right amount of humor. Zach's jokes were hilarious, and his relationship with Lizzie's brother Josh is so bromantic, I wish I could find two guys who look like them and take a picture of them hugging, ha!
Lizzie has a great voice. Enticing and lovable, and you want to reach in and hug her and smack her all at once. She's a worry wart over her brother, a best friend to her roommate, and a girlfriend who wants so much to be number one priority in a relationship she's desperately trying to make work. And when her first love, Zach, pops back in town, she finds the courage and strength to do things for her, while still keeping up her selflessness. She's a wonderful female lead.
Zach is everything in a book boyfriend. Funny, passionate, and he loves Lizzie with all he can. He's got a good heart, and holds back as much as he can control around Liz to protect her even if it's killing him. Plus... he's hot. So there's that ;)
(Never) Again is a beautiful, light, fun love story that also has that dose of dramatic that makes you tear up, but leaves you with a satisfied smile when you read that last page. Definitely a book I'll read over and over, just to put that smile back on my face.
Wonderful debut, Theresa Paolo. Can't wait to see what else is coming from your genius. :)
October 15, 2013
I loved this book so much. The heartbreak is so real, the emotions so enticing. I would have dove into the bathroom if I saw my ex, too! :)
I recommend this to anyone who loves NA Romance, or a swoon-worthy good guy!
READ THIS BOOK! :))))
Love,
ALLA KAR :)
I recommend this to anyone who loves NA Romance, or a swoon-worthy good guy!
READ THIS BOOK! :))))
Love,
ALLA KAR :)
May 11, 2014
5 I'll Never Let You Go Stars
Before I get into it, I'm just going to point out that I wrote "Lexi" several times on that picture before remembering the main character's name was "Lizzie" Whoops! Guess that means I really identified with her, haha.
I read because I love CHARACTERS. Give me a character driven book and I'm all over that like pregnant women on all-you-can-eat buffets. (Never) Again had just what I was looking for right now. A torn heroine, a boy who needed some MAJOR making up to do, and a tight relationship between siblings. No wonder I related so well to Liz. :)
So, quick recap... Ex-boyfriend is back in town after totally not talking to Liz after he up and moved. BUT he stays in contact with her brother, Josh, and when I read that I was seriously like, um... hell no. Kick that boy in the balls. But of course, the author had to write Zach completely swoonworthy, and I was right there with Lizzie wanting to hate him, but absolutely unable to.
Then there was Josh, her brother, who was absolutely fanfrickintastic. I couldn't be mad at him either. And then the total panic moment Anyway, I love brother/sister relationships. And I was happy to see one in this.
Now that I've gushed over the boys... what really did me in was the simple, yet beautiful writing style. Everything flowed so well, I was sucked instantly into Liz's world, her mind, her emotions, and felt connected to this girl as if I was her... yet I wasn't, if that makes any sense at all. There were several highlighted passages of poignancy and hilarity that I felt as if I was experiencing what REAL college kids act like.
I can't miss the love story either. I've never had "The one who got away" (mainly because I dug my claws in him and said you ain't going nowhere!) but the rushing feelings of that first love, the one you can't get out of your mind even if you try, it was tangible in the pages of (Never) Again. Like sink-your-teeth, break-your-heart, man-I-hope-they-find-each-other-again tangible. Ms. Paolo breathed so much life into these characters. And I want to thank her for giving me such a heart warming experience.
A word of caution, because I know this will probably bother some people (not me, but hey, I loved her :)) This is a story of struggle, learning, growth in relationships. Of REFUSING to see what everyone else does. I think the reason why Liz never bothered me is because I've been there. Hell, I still do it sometimes and I'm 27. I've picked what will hurt less to lose. I've stayed away from what feels real because it has also scared the crap out of me. Liz is just like any other lost 18 year old, with the wrong guy, but forcing herself to believe he's the right one.
So, I'd recommend if you're in the mood for a cleaner NA and a sweet love story with a HEA to boot.
Happy reading!
Before I get into it, I'm just going to point out that I wrote "Lexi" several times on that picture before remembering the main character's name was "Lizzie" Whoops! Guess that means I really identified with her, haha.
I read because I love CHARACTERS. Give me a character driven book and I'm all over that like pregnant women on all-you-can-eat buffets. (Never) Again had just what I was looking for right now. A torn heroine, a boy who needed some MAJOR making up to do, and a tight relationship between siblings. No wonder I related so well to Liz. :)
So, quick recap... Ex-boyfriend is back in town after totally not talking to Liz after he up and moved. BUT he stays in contact with her brother, Josh, and when I read that I was seriously like, um... hell no. Kick that boy in the balls. But of course, the author had to write Zach completely swoonworthy, and I was right there with Lizzie wanting to hate him, but absolutely unable to.
Then there was Josh, her brother, who was absolutely fanfrickintastic. I couldn't be mad at him either. And then the total panic moment Anyway, I love brother/sister relationships. And I was happy to see one in this.
Now that I've gushed over the boys... what really did me in was the simple, yet beautiful writing style. Everything flowed so well, I was sucked instantly into Liz's world, her mind, her emotions, and felt connected to this girl as if I was her... yet I wasn't, if that makes any sense at all. There were several highlighted passages of poignancy and hilarity that I felt as if I was experiencing what REAL college kids act like.
I can't miss the love story either. I've never had "The one who got away" (mainly because I dug my claws in him and said you ain't going nowhere!) but the rushing feelings of that first love, the one you can't get out of your mind even if you try, it was tangible in the pages of (Never) Again. Like sink-your-teeth, break-your-heart, man-I-hope-they-find-each-other-again tangible. Ms. Paolo breathed so much life into these characters. And I want to thank her for giving me such a heart warming experience.
A word of caution, because I know this will probably bother some people (not me, but hey, I loved her :)) This is a story of struggle, learning, growth in relationships. Of REFUSING to see what everyone else does. I think the reason why Liz never bothered me is because I've been there. Hell, I still do it sometimes and I'm 27. I've picked what will hurt less to lose. I've stayed away from what feels real because it has also scared the crap out of me. Liz is just like any other lost 18 year old, with the wrong guy, but forcing herself to believe he's the right one.
So, I'd recommend if you're in the mood for a cleaner NA and a sweet love story with a HEA to boot.
Happy reading!
October 15, 2013
I won't write a review for this because I have wayy too many to write and I am not good at juggling.
So I shall sum this book up in a single word (and gif).
ADORABLE.
Oh and yes this was an AWESOME NA so I've finally had my break through (although Defiance was kind of like it.. but nevermind that I love this book too much). I am probably going to re-read it :P
So I shall sum this book up in a single word (and gif).
ADORABLE.
Oh and yes this was an AWESOME NA so I've finally had my break through (although Defiance was kind of like it.. but nevermind that I love this book too much). I am probably going to re-read it :P
June 8, 2014
DNF - For now.
Really not liking the Heroine, and not feeling any connection or interest with the rest of the characters or the storyline either.
I may return at some point.
Really not liking the Heroine, and not feeling any connection or interest with the rest of the characters or the storyline either.
I may return at some point.
August 20, 2015
Una historia amena y perfecta para reconciliarme o mejor dicho, reencontrarme con el mundo del NA sin mezclar lo sobrenatural, ha sido más que maravilloso: espléndido.
La historia de Liz y Zach puede parecer la típica historia de dos adolescentes enamorados que tienen que separarse por un motivo, puede parecerlo y diría que en parte lo es, pero no me ha importado en absoluto, porque era eso lo que estaba buscando, una historia que siguiera una línea sin que mi corazón estuviese en juego y aún así lo ha estado.
He querido matar a Liz en muchas ocasiones y también a Zach porque realmente solo sabía un lado de la historia, no el suyo y lo odiaba por ello, pero a medida que avanzaba el libro me he ido reconciliando con él, junto a Liz.
Buscaba en este libro una salida de arco iris, y me he encontrado con el corazón en un puño en varias ocasiones, especialmente con Mimi y con Josh, no diré nada porque se considera spoiler.
Cada uno de los personajes es importante. Sadie es encantadora, la amiga perfecta y Matt es adorable, sobre los demás solo mencionaré a Josh y su misteriosa historia que conoceré de primera mano en el siguiente libro ¡y desde su punto de vista! *-*
En fin, me ha encantado, me hubiese gustado darle más estrellas, quizá un tres y medio sería lo más acorde pero lo dejaré en cuatro.
La historia de Liz y Zach puede parecer la típica historia de dos adolescentes enamorados que tienen que separarse por un motivo, puede parecerlo y diría que en parte lo es, pero no me ha importado en absoluto, porque era eso lo que estaba buscando, una historia que siguiera una línea sin que mi corazón estuviese en juego y aún así lo ha estado.
He querido matar a Liz en muchas ocasiones y también a Zach porque realmente solo sabía un lado de la historia, no el suyo y lo odiaba por ello, pero a medida que avanzaba el libro me he ido reconciliando con él, junto a Liz.
Buscaba en este libro una salida de arco iris, y me he encontrado con el corazón en un puño en varias ocasiones, especialmente con Mimi y con Josh, no diré nada porque se considera spoiler.
Cada uno de los personajes es importante. Sadie es encantadora, la amiga perfecta y Matt es adorable, sobre los demás solo mencionaré a Josh y su misteriosa historia que conoceré de primera mano en el siguiente libro ¡y desde su punto de vista! *-*
En fin, me ha encantado, me hubiese gustado darle más estrellas, quizá un tres y medio sería lo más acorde pero lo dejaré en cuatro.
August 27, 2013
Oh Zach how I love your chocolate chip colored eyes. This book has one of my FAVORITE wake up scenes ever. (Let's just say there might be wood involved.) I loved Zach and Liz's story. Theresa had me laughing, and swooning. And did I mention crying? I'm pretty sure I was up at 2AM sniffling into my pillow with this one.
The idea of first love is sweet and fun and when they move on it can be hard. But I was very happy that Liz got another chance at her first love.
The idea of first love is sweet and fun and when they move on it can be hard. But I was very happy that Liz got another chance at her first love.
January 2, 2014
Loved this book! It was very sweet and had a great story! Didn't like Zach at the beginning but he's now on my top 25 list of book boyfriends! Loved it!
September 6, 2015
★★★
I don’t know what the hell is going on with me, i’ve been reading tons of romance novels and ugh they’re so cute i can’t stop.
(Never) Again is one of the first book that i’ve read that is not so…dramatic(?) or that makes me feel like im in a rollercoaster of emotions, it was a cutesie read nice for having a good time and thank god it was not full of steryotipes!
I gave the book that rating because even if the story starts fast for me was hard to read and i didn’t connect with the characters until a bit later. The writing style and the story are pretty simple and it’s a short book.
First things first, something that really captured my attention in this book it was when the protagonist Liz talks about the past when she met her boyfriend Zach (in the present they’re in college and they’re not longer together) he wasn’t the typical guy that’s really fucking hot and all the girls want to be with him and his body omg no. It’s funny because im so used to that type, that when they talk about a normal person you get quite surprised ha.
When Liz met Zach they were in school and he was the guy that handed over the water to the football playersi can’t remember how are they called right now and he’s really skinny, still handsome and aws it was really cute how she described him. College comes and he becomes the guy that’s still handsome but with a good body and around the hole story he’s the cutest cupcake ever
he doesn’t become an arrogant asshole
Now Liz, the only thing that actually bothered me it was the fact that she didn’t wanted to admit that Joe, her boyfriend was the biggest idiot ever and didn’t even care about her because around the story she does notice about this situation but she doesn’t want to break up with him.
Josh he’s the nicest brother i mean can i have one? Please. And Sadie we don’t get to see so much about her but she also was cool.
How i feel about the romance in this book? It was understandble that they had feelings for eachother at the beggining of the book because they dated for at least two years in the ‘past’ you know but still they took their time to make things right. So yeah it was really nice i enjoyed this book a lot.
I don’t know what the hell is going on with me, i’ve been reading tons of romance novels and ugh they’re so cute i can’t stop.
(Never) Again is one of the first book that i’ve read that is not so…dramatic(?) or that makes me feel like im in a rollercoaster of emotions, it was a cutesie read nice for having a good time and thank god it was not full of steryotipes!
I gave the book that rating because even if the story starts fast for me was hard to read and i didn’t connect with the characters until a bit later. The writing style and the story are pretty simple and it’s a short book.
First things first, something that really captured my attention in this book it was when the protagonist Liz talks about the past when she met her boyfriend Zach (in the present they’re in college and they’re not longer together) he wasn’t the typical guy that’s really fucking hot and all the girls want to be with him and his body omg no. It’s funny because im so used to that type, that when they talk about a normal person you get quite surprised ha.
When Liz met Zach they were in school and he was the guy that handed over the water to the football players
Now Liz, the only thing that actually bothered me it was the fact that she didn’t wanted to admit that Joe, her boyfriend was the biggest idiot ever and didn’t even care about her because around the story she does notice about this situation but she doesn’t want to break up with him.
Josh he’s the nicest brother i mean can i have one? Please. And Sadie we don’t get to see so much about her but she also was cool.
How i feel about the romance in this book? It was understandble that they had feelings for eachother at the beggining of the book because they dated for at least two years in the ‘past’ you know but still they took their time to make things right. So yeah it was really nice i enjoyed this book a lot.
September 4, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C:
*eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
My first read from this author and most definitely not my last! I loved it! The emotions just tore me apart; yes I even cried.
(Never) Again is a story told in first person about Liz Wagner and how she's starting life in college. At eighteen she knows all about heartbreak, as the boy she loved moved away and never kept in touch. Falling into depression, she let her school work slide and misses out on going to the college of her dreams. Now she's rebuilt her life and has even managed to find happiness with Joe. Then, one day everything changes. Zach Roberts is back! Feeling like life is kicking her in the teeth, Liz is expected to just smile and carry on as if her world didn't fall apart when he deserted her. To make matters worse Zach is constantly around and just so perfect!
Struggling to balance her feelings for Joe while avoiding Zach is not an easy task. To add insult to injury, Liz's own brother,Josh, is all friendly with him as well. Then one day life changes. Tragedy strikes, and Liz needs support more than ever. Can she trust Zach or will he let her down again? What about her relationship with Joe? Will it stand up to the pressure that surrounds them all?
I am speechless with admiration at the sheer depth of this book. The author has written a story that while aimed at a young adult market is full of heart. The heroine Liz is just a dream to read about, as she struggles with coming to terms with her adulthood and the complications that romance can bring. She's bright and funny, and her opinion that life just bitch slaps her is one that will resonate with a lot of readers. This story is full of well written characters and humor. It's impossible not to care for Liz and Zach. When tragedy strikes, it's a shock, and written in such a way that the reader cannot help but feel emotionally involved. Truly moving.
Well done Ms. Paolo, and... more please.
*eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
My first read from this author and most definitely not my last! I loved it! The emotions just tore me apart; yes I even cried.
(Never) Again is a story told in first person about Liz Wagner and how she's starting life in college. At eighteen she knows all about heartbreak, as the boy she loved moved away and never kept in touch. Falling into depression, she let her school work slide and misses out on going to the college of her dreams. Now she's rebuilt her life and has even managed to find happiness with Joe. Then, one day everything changes. Zach Roberts is back! Feeling like life is kicking her in the teeth, Liz is expected to just smile and carry on as if her world didn't fall apart when he deserted her. To make matters worse Zach is constantly around and just so perfect!
Struggling to balance her feelings for Joe while avoiding Zach is not an easy task. To add insult to injury, Liz's own brother,Josh, is all friendly with him as well. Then one day life changes. Tragedy strikes, and Liz needs support more than ever. Can she trust Zach or will he let her down again? What about her relationship with Joe? Will it stand up to the pressure that surrounds them all?
I am speechless with admiration at the sheer depth of this book. The author has written a story that while aimed at a young adult market is full of heart. The heroine Liz is just a dream to read about, as she struggles with coming to terms with her adulthood and the complications that romance can bring. She's bright and funny, and her opinion that life just bitch slaps her is one that will resonate with a lot of readers. This story is full of well written characters and humor. It's impossible not to care for Liz and Zach. When tragedy strikes, it's a shock, and written in such a way that the reader cannot help but feel emotionally involved. Truly moving.
Well done Ms. Paolo, and... more please.
September 5, 2013
This is a great New Adult title full of swoony romance, college life, and difficult decision making.
Liz is perfectly happy with her group of friends, her somewhat stable boyfriend, and life in general. She had a great high school romance that teenage girls dream of... until her boyfriend, Zach, moved away and eventually just stopped calling, ripping her heart out and ruining her senior year of high school. When he shows up again, all the old feelings of love and pain show up again with him. Liz quickly goes from actually being ok to just pretending to be ok as Zach refuses to go away and let her forget him.
It takes Liz a while to finally realize what the reader knows almost instinctively - Zach let her go in senior year to protect her, not to hurt her. While I definitely wanted to scream at Liz a few times for being so very stubborn and relactant to forgive Zach, I also understood her hesitancy and desire to not let herself be hurt again.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this and recommend it. I'm looking forward to reading more from Theresa Paolo.
Liz is perfectly happy with her group of friends, her somewhat stable boyfriend, and life in general. She had a great high school romance that teenage girls dream of... until her boyfriend, Zach, moved away and eventually just stopped calling, ripping her heart out and ruining her senior year of high school. When he shows up again, all the old feelings of love and pain show up again with him. Liz quickly goes from actually being ok to just pretending to be ok as Zach refuses to go away and let her forget him.
It takes Liz a while to finally realize what the reader knows almost instinctively - Zach let her go in senior year to protect her, not to hurt her. While I definitely wanted to scream at Liz a few times for being so very stubborn and relactant to forgive Zach, I also understood her hesitancy and desire to not let herself be hurt again.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this and recommend it. I'm looking forward to reading more from Theresa Paolo.
September 28, 2014
This was an okay contemporary romance, but it dragged.
The characters in this were okay, but I didn’t love them. Liz was stubborn and didn’t like to listen to what other people had to say, and Zach was such an ass to suddenly stop calling her.
The storyline in this was alright, but it got a bit repetitive. It felt like we just kept going over the same ‘he left me’ thing over and over again, and Liz was too stubborn to even consider why he did it.
We did get one steamy scene between Liz and Zach but there was no sex.
The ending was pretty average. After all that arguing and crying, Zach’s reason for stopping phoning Liz was an utter load of poo, and we then got a requisite ‘happily ever after’.
Overall; dull and repetitive.
6 out of 10.
The characters in this were okay, but I didn’t love them. Liz was stubborn and didn’t like to listen to what other people had to say, and Zach was such an ass to suddenly stop calling her.
The storyline in this was alright, but it got a bit repetitive. It felt like we just kept going over the same ‘he left me’ thing over and over again, and Liz was too stubborn to even consider why he did it.
We did get one steamy scene between Liz and Zach but there was no sex.
The ending was pretty average. After all that arguing and crying, Zach’s reason for stopping phoning Liz was an utter load of poo, and we then got a requisite ‘happily ever after’.
Overall; dull and repetitive.
6 out of 10.
September 28, 2014
Actual rating - 2.5
(Never) Again dragged. I'm glad it was only short!
I can't say i liked any of the characters.
Liz annoyed me. All she did was moan about how Zach left her, and kept wondering why he did it. Why she couldn't just ask him is beyond me. The love interestes weren't any better. They both had moments where they were arses, and Zach's excuse for not phoning her was a load of crap.
The book was dull and repetitive, and i couldn't wait to finish it.
(Never) Again dragged. I'm glad it was only short!
I can't say i liked any of the characters.
Liz annoyed me. All she did was moan about how Zach left her, and kept wondering why he did it. Why she couldn't just ask him is beyond me. The love interestes weren't any better. They both had moments where they were arses, and Zach's excuse for not phoning her was a load of crap.
The book was dull and repetitive, and i couldn't wait to finish it.
April 6, 2015
This was a great read. I basically finished it in one sitting...staying up late into the night to find out what Lizzie was going to do! I felt like I knew, but I just had to see how it all unfolded. Lizzie frustrated me a little with her indecision, but I really understood where she was coming from so I could forgive her back and forth behavior. I like it when an author paints realistic characters that I can relate to.
This book is a sweet read and I thoroughly enjoyed it :)
4.5 stars from me.
This book is a sweet read and I thoroughly enjoyed it :)
4.5 stars from me.
December 24, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are great, and I felt so much for them! I wanted to know how they fell apart and I so wanted them to work things out. Paolo does a wonderful job of taking the reader through a wide range of emotions. The writing is great, very honest and real. I can't wait to read more by Theresa Paolo!
August 16, 2013
(Never) Again is an awesome must read N/A contemporary romance that captivates you from the first paragraph with characters that are totally relatable and swoonworthy. Lizzie and Zach will have you laughing, crying and shouting at the pages as they struggle to recapture a lost friendship and love. What a great debut novel for this author. Can't wait to read what's next.
October 15, 2013
I loved this novel! It was such a sincere, sweet NA. I totally understood where the main character was coming from. I'm not someone who writes spoilers, so I won't go into details. But you need to read this novel! It made me remember how fantastic it is to surrender to your heart, and fall in love. OH, and the kisses, my gosh. They rocked. Please write more Theresa Paolo!!!!
February 16, 2021
leído en mayo 2015
No te pierdes nada bueno...!!
No te pierdes nada bueno...!!
June 26, 2022
Liz is in for a surprise when she finds out her ex Zach is back and is going to study at the same college as her. After leaving her and not hearing from him for a year, Liz doesn't seem to be over him. And that now she is dating Joe, who seems like a good guy, but in reality he has a drinking problem, he is more aware of his band and in the end let's say it's not the best for her.
But Zach is there for her when problems arise, and little by little, she comes to accept that she has never stopped loving him.
Not bad, although sometimes it was a bit boring , I miss a little more passion.
But Zach is there for her when problems arise, and little by little, she comes to accept that she has never stopped loving him.
Not bad, although sometimes it was a bit boring , I miss a little more passion.
February 13, 2015
I really wanted to like this book. I loved the description and from the reviews it seemed right up my alley. I just finished a string of really heavy YA/NA books and I wanted to read something light and fun. (I mean you can only read about so many abusive childhoods before you start getting depressed.)This book is definitely light and fun, but sadly it was severely lacking in a lot of other positive attributes. At best it was mostly kind of blah at worst I was extremely annoyed by all the characters.
Let's start with the plot. Basically Liz and Zach were high school sweethearts until he moved away. They tried to stay together after the move until Zach suddenly drops all contact. She eventually moves on with Joe and attends college with him. The story starts a year after Liz and Zach's breakup. Liz sees Zach on campus and realizes he's back. This happens at about page 15, this is also where things start to go down hill for me ant this book.
First I guess we can start off with her friends (or should I say friend) whom I liked least of all. Sadie, her roommate and seemingly only friend, is not very likable in my opinion. But before I get into that let's talk about her friends or the lack thereof. To put it bluntly this girl has NO friends, besides Sadie. Not a girl she talks to sometimes in her English class, not a guy she shares notes with in her chemistry class. No one. I understand that a lot of people only have one best friend, I'm the same way, but I mean most people have a few other close friends, or at least a few people they're friendly with. It was weird. She did hang out with a few other people at a bowling alley once, but that was the only time and she never really directly interacted with anyone but Sadie, her boyfriend Joe, and Zach.
Now back to Sadie. Oh Sadie how you irritated me to no end. She was basically the first in a long line of people who treated her like a seven year old and manipulated her life. Also she broke the Girl Code which is pretty unforgivable by itself. She decided that even though her best friend's ex-boyfriend broke up with her in extremely hurtful and assholish way, she was going to invite him to going bowling with them without even consulting Liz!!! Are you serious?! I would not have spoken to her for at least a week if not more if she was my BFF. And THEN when Liz understandably feel uncomfortable about this tells her that if she's really moved on she shouldn't have a problem with it. I have some many problems with that, but I'll give you two:
1. How many of you would or know anybody who would want to hang
out with an ex-boyfriend even if they were happily married?
How is not wanting to be buddy-buddy with our ex mean you're
not over them?
2. She is talking to Liz like she's her mom trying to instill
Life lessons. She is a grown woman and does not need her
best friend manipulating situations like she knows better than
Liz what's best for Liz.
What go to me the most is that everyone is so convinced that Liz should just forgive Zach for not even having the decency to breakup with her without even an explanation or a real apology. And the fact that Liz seems to be content to try and do that. Zach says that he never stopped loving her, but if he did why didn't he explain to Liz why he stopped talking to when he first saw her. Or at the very least apologize, he basically just pretended nothing had happened. Everyone in this book felt they knew better than Liz and manipulated situation and deceived her so that that would happen, instead of letting her figure things out and make mistakes like an adult. And what gets me is that this is never addressed, the book treats this behavior like it is perfectly fine!!!
The plot was very simple and predictable there was something like a plot twist near the end, but only because it was unexpected. It had very little to do with the actual plot, everything would have happened exactly the same without the incident. I felt that Joe was a very one dimensional character who didn't offer much of a love triangle.
Summary This is a very easy read with very one dimensional characters and a very simple plot. The main conflict is something that could have been very easily fixed. Most of the characters' problems were of their own making. I found nothing really relatable about these characters mostly because i didn't find out a lot about them. The only things I know about them is that Liz likes to bake, Zach loves his grandmother, and they both love the environment. I would not recommend this book.
Let's start with the plot. Basically Liz and Zach were high school sweethearts until he moved away. They tried to stay together after the move until Zach suddenly drops all contact. She eventually moves on with Joe and attends college with him. The story starts a year after Liz and Zach's breakup. Liz sees Zach on campus and realizes he's back. This happens at about page 15, this is also where things start to go down hill for me ant this book.
First I guess we can start off with her friends (or should I say friend) whom I liked least of all. Sadie, her roommate and seemingly only friend, is not very likable in my opinion. But before I get into that let's talk about her friends or the lack thereof. To put it bluntly this girl has NO friends, besides Sadie. Not a girl she talks to sometimes in her English class, not a guy she shares notes with in her chemistry class. No one. I understand that a lot of people only have one best friend, I'm the same way, but I mean most people have a few other close friends, or at least a few people they're friendly with. It was weird. She did hang out with a few other people at a bowling alley once, but that was the only time and she never really directly interacted with anyone but Sadie, her boyfriend Joe, and Zach.
Now back to Sadie. Oh Sadie how you irritated me to no end. She was basically the first in a long line of people who treated her like a seven year old and manipulated her life. Also she broke the Girl Code which is pretty unforgivable by itself. She decided that even though her best friend's ex-boyfriend broke up with her in extremely hurtful and assholish way, she was going to invite him to going bowling with them without even consulting Liz!!! Are you serious?! I would not have spoken to her for at least a week if not more if she was my BFF. And THEN when Liz understandably feel uncomfortable about this tells her that if she's really moved on she shouldn't have a problem with it. I have some many problems with that, but I'll give you two:
1. How many of you would or know anybody who would want to hang
out with an ex-boyfriend even if they were happily married?
How is not wanting to be buddy-buddy with our ex mean you're
not over them?
2. She is talking to Liz like she's her mom trying to instill
Life lessons. She is a grown woman and does not need her
best friend manipulating situations like she knows better than
Liz what's best for Liz.
What go to me the most is that everyone is so convinced that Liz should just forgive Zach for not even having the decency to breakup with her without even an explanation or a real apology. And the fact that Liz seems to be content to try and do that. Zach says that he never stopped loving her, but if he did why didn't he explain to Liz why he stopped talking to when he first saw her. Or at the very least apologize, he basically just pretended nothing had happened. Everyone in this book felt they knew better than Liz and manipulated situation and deceived her so that that would happen, instead of letting her figure things out and make mistakes like an adult. And what gets me is that this is never addressed, the book treats this behavior like it is perfectly fine!!!
The plot was very simple and predictable there was something like a plot twist near the end, but only because it was unexpected. It had very little to do with the actual plot, everything would have happened exactly the same without the incident. I felt that Joe was a very one dimensional character who didn't offer much of a love triangle.
Summary This is a very easy read with very one dimensional characters and a very simple plot. The main conflict is something that could have been very easily fixed. Most of the characters' problems were of their own making. I found nothing really relatable about these characters mostly because i didn't find out a lot about them. The only things I know about them is that Liz likes to bake, Zach loves his grandmother, and they both love the environment. I would not recommend this book.
October 16, 2013
Snagged from NetGalley.
I was enjoying this one, enough that I was twenty minutes late to work this morning, up until chapter 16. Chapter 16 contains the catalyst event that propels the story and the characters towards the ending. I did not like the way the heroine handled the event at all. Maybe if I was younger and less experienced at dealing with crises, I could perhaps relate more, but as it stood, I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes. I also wanted a more mature resolution conversation to take place between between the hero and heroine. I felt like they were all 'it's official, we love each other again, yay!' and then jumped into the sack, leaving a lot of things hanging. Like, did the hero purposely come to the heroine's college to get her back or was it really only a coincidence because of his grandmother? If it was solely because of his grandmother, was he hoping to see the heroine again? What's the status of their relationship now? We know they're in lurve, but are they dating? Planning on moving in together?
In addition, I was confused by the length of time they've been separated. The author referred to it repeatedly as "over a year," but tells us they broke up in "summer before senior year." Let's say they moved away at the end of June. Two weeks into the fall semester, that means the book opens during the first week of September. That's fourteen months, but they didn't break up right away. Going by their only real conversation about it on page 198, there were 'weeks' of phone calls before Zach basically dumped her. This would make it August. So that's thirteen months, just barely over a year. Furthermore, the heroine blames the break-up for her failure to get into her dream school, but we're never given any details as to why this is, or which school was her dream school. If they were so in love, why didn't they plan on going to college together? He had his license, she probably had hers, why didn't they arrange to visit? We're never told where he moved to, so there's nothing to say they couldn't visit each other. I could perhaps have bought it if they'd been 14, 15, but at 17? Please.
Finally, the author never says where the book is set and it bothers me. It bothers me because the author took just enough reality to make me think it's set on Long Island and then got a bunch of things wrong. Farmingdale State is an actual university and while there is no Springfield University, there is a Springfield College. Springfield College is about three hours from Farmingdale, depending on traffic. So unless Josh is secretly a race car driver, it should take him longer to make the drive. Furthermore, beach clean-up programs actually exist and are run by school groups, but there is no 'West Shore Beach' on LI. If you head west from Farmingdale, you'll be in Queens before you hit water and it would be the East River. It would make infinitely more sense and be a hell of a lot quicker to drive to the South Shore. I admit this paragraph probably won't come into play for anyone who's not a local, but combined with the other issues, it just heightened the irritation.
I was enjoying this one, enough that I was twenty minutes late to work this morning, up until chapter 16. Chapter 16 contains the catalyst event that propels the story and the characters towards the ending. I did not like the way the heroine handled the event at all. Maybe if I was younger and less experienced at dealing with crises, I could perhaps relate more, but as it stood, I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes. I also wanted a more mature resolution conversation to take place between between the hero and heroine. I felt like they were all 'it's official, we love each other again, yay!' and then jumped into the sack, leaving a lot of things hanging. Like, did the hero purposely come to the heroine's college to get her back or was it really only a coincidence because of his grandmother? If it was solely because of his grandmother, was he hoping to see the heroine again? What's the status of their relationship now? We know they're in lurve, but are they dating? Planning on moving in together?
In addition, I was confused by the length of time they've been separated. The author referred to it repeatedly as "over a year," but tells us they broke up in "summer before senior year." Let's say they moved away at the end of June. Two weeks into the fall semester, that means the book opens during the first week of September. That's fourteen months, but they didn't break up right away. Going by their only real conversation about it on page 198, there were 'weeks' of phone calls before Zach basically dumped her. This would make it August. So that's thirteen months, just barely over a year. Furthermore, the heroine blames the break-up for her failure to get into her dream school, but we're never given any details as to why this is, or which school was her dream school. If they were so in love, why didn't they plan on going to college together? He had his license, she probably had hers, why didn't they arrange to visit? We're never told where he moved to, so there's nothing to say they couldn't visit each other. I could perhaps have bought it if they'd been 14, 15, but at 17? Please.
Finally, the author never says where the book is set and it bothers me. It bothers me because the author took just enough reality to make me think it's set on Long Island and then got a bunch of things wrong. Farmingdale State is an actual university and while there is no Springfield University, there is a Springfield College. Springfield College is about three hours from Farmingdale, depending on traffic. So unless Josh is secretly a race car driver, it should take him longer to make the drive. Furthermore, beach clean-up programs actually exist and are run by school groups, but there is no 'West Shore Beach' on LI. If you head west from Farmingdale, you'll be in Queens before you hit water and it would be the East River. It would make infinitely more sense and be a hell of a lot quicker to drive to the South Shore. I admit this paragraph probably won't come into play for anyone who's not a local, but combined with the other issues, it just heightened the irritation.
December 17, 2014
(Never) Again is a second chance story of two high school loves that were separated and reunited in college. Liz and Zach never had closure and true healing from their separation, which lead to a sad breakup, leaving our two main characters hurt. Yet as fate would have it, they cross paths during their freshman year of college and all the old hurts, bitterness, and attraction comes rushing to the forefront of their world. They must decide if what they had is what was meant to be or if they are meant to go their separate ways.
This story had a bit of a slow start for me. It is always hard with a new author to find your reading groove and see if it clicks or not. At first the story was a bit shallow. I don’t mean that in a negative way but it didn’t have as much depth of storyline and characters as I wanted. However, as I continued to read, the story picked up momentum and I started to really enjoy what was happening. The characters became more developed and the storyline was deeper and more heartfelt. Then when tragedy strikes and everything falls apart, we see a much more mature cast of characters and a storyline that is easier to connect with and enjoy.
I am a sucker for a second chance love story. The history between Liz and Zach is very sweet. We see their history in flashbacks throughout the book. First love is always adorable and their’s fit the bill. When their love didn’t last, it left two young heartbroken characters that suffered. Years later their paths cross again and it is awkward and strained. Two people who shared so much in the past must learn who they are now and how they have changed.
Liz develops very well in this story. At first she is a heartbroken girl. She is very self centered and wanting to forget life and move on. Yet a girl never forgets her first love and when she realizes it is more than a need for closure, things get a bit complicated. She must decide what she wants and who she wants to spend her time and emotions with. I loved watching her learn about Zach again. She could always see glimpses of who he was before but she was learning who the man was now. He was kind, funny, and a family guy. I loved watching him interact with Mimi.
As these two fell in love again, it was sweet and wonderful. It took a bit of conversation and inner healing for these two to come to a place that would allow them a second chance. They are friends with history and that allowed them to reconnect and find a place that let them grow and develop their second chance naturally. This story, despite it’s beginning, was a sweet story of second chances with your first love that I enjoyed. I appreciated Liz and Zach’s journey and the development of their tale!
This story had a bit of a slow start for me. It is always hard with a new author to find your reading groove and see if it clicks or not. At first the story was a bit shallow. I don’t mean that in a negative way but it didn’t have as much depth of storyline and characters as I wanted. However, as I continued to read, the story picked up momentum and I started to really enjoy what was happening. The characters became more developed and the storyline was deeper and more heartfelt. Then when tragedy strikes and everything falls apart, we see a much more mature cast of characters and a storyline that is easier to connect with and enjoy.
I am a sucker for a second chance love story. The history between Liz and Zach is very sweet. We see their history in flashbacks throughout the book. First love is always adorable and their’s fit the bill. When their love didn’t last, it left two young heartbroken characters that suffered. Years later their paths cross again and it is awkward and strained. Two people who shared so much in the past must learn who they are now and how they have changed.
Liz develops very well in this story. At first she is a heartbroken girl. She is very self centered and wanting to forget life and move on. Yet a girl never forgets her first love and when she realizes it is more than a need for closure, things get a bit complicated. She must decide what she wants and who she wants to spend her time and emotions with. I loved watching her learn about Zach again. She could always see glimpses of who he was before but she was learning who the man was now. He was kind, funny, and a family guy. I loved watching him interact with Mimi.
As these two fell in love again, it was sweet and wonderful. It took a bit of conversation and inner healing for these two to come to a place that would allow them a second chance. They are friends with history and that allowed them to reconnect and find a place that let them grow and develop their second chance naturally. This story, despite it’s beginning, was a sweet story of second chances with your first love that I enjoyed. I appreciated Liz and Zach’s journey and the development of their tale!
November 25, 2014
For me, this story was another lesson in “don’t settle for less than the best.” When a guy treats a girl that they’re dating like they aren’t important…it’s time to say goodbye. If a guy is pressuring you to do things you are not ready to do…show him the door. And don’t lie to yourself…don’t pretend that your relationship is everything it should be, when it’s not. There are so many girls out there, and some guys, who could learn from this story what Liz had to learn the hard way.
Liz and her friends are brand new freshmen at Farmingdale State. Two weeks in, Liz is feeling pretty fantastic, roaming campus with her boyfriend and her best friend…that is, until a face from her past, one she thought she’d never see again, is right there in the hall, with HER friends, at HER school.
Zach has been gone for over a year. And he hasn’t spoken with Liz in almost as long…despite the fact that he’s kept in contact with their other friends. Liz doesn’t understand why he stopped talking to her, or how he could possibly be back so close to his old hometown, after moving clear across the country.
Liz is a pretty great character, but it made me SO MAD that she couldn’t see what a terrible boyfriend (and person) Joe was! She really is a pretty awesome person, and she deserves so much better than him. Even though Liz is pretty snarky, she truly has a kind heart, and she should be treated with respect.
And then there’s Zach. Let’s just say, if I could hand-pick all of the qualities I would want in a boyfriend, they would pretty much add up to Zach. He is strong, caring, funny, and he makes pretty good decisions for an 18 year old…except that one decision where he broke this one girl’s heart because he stopped calling her, without an explanation. But even that poor decision was made with the best of intentions.
Some of the secondary characters are fantastic. Like Zach’s grandma, Mimi, and Liz’s brother, Josh. And Liz’s best friend and roommate, Sadie, is an amazing friend, who can see right through Liz, and call her out on her bull. But one secondary character in particular *cough-Joe* is a person you will love to hate. He may have helped Liz pick up the pieces of her broken heart after Zach stopped calling, but he does NOT treat Liz right, in any way, shape or form.
Will Liz ever accept that Zach wasn’t trying to hurt her when he stopped talking to her? Will Zach convince Liz he’s still the same boy, just a little more grown up, as the boy she fell in love with in high school? Or will Liz continue to push Zach away, pretending their relationship won’t work, and stay with Joe? I guess you’ll have to read it yourself to find out!
Liz and her friends are brand new freshmen at Farmingdale State. Two weeks in, Liz is feeling pretty fantastic, roaming campus with her boyfriend and her best friend…that is, until a face from her past, one she thought she’d never see again, is right there in the hall, with HER friends, at HER school.
Zach has been gone for over a year. And he hasn’t spoken with Liz in almost as long…despite the fact that he’s kept in contact with their other friends. Liz doesn’t understand why he stopped talking to her, or how he could possibly be back so close to his old hometown, after moving clear across the country.
Liz is a pretty great character, but it made me SO MAD that she couldn’t see what a terrible boyfriend (and person) Joe was! She really is a pretty awesome person, and she deserves so much better than him. Even though Liz is pretty snarky, she truly has a kind heart, and she should be treated with respect.
And then there’s Zach. Let’s just say, if I could hand-pick all of the qualities I would want in a boyfriend, they would pretty much add up to Zach. He is strong, caring, funny, and he makes pretty good decisions for an 18 year old…except that one decision where he broke this one girl’s heart because he stopped calling her, without an explanation. But even that poor decision was made with the best of intentions.
Some of the secondary characters are fantastic. Like Zach’s grandma, Mimi, and Liz’s brother, Josh. And Liz’s best friend and roommate, Sadie, is an amazing friend, who can see right through Liz, and call her out on her bull. But one secondary character in particular *cough-Joe* is a person you will love to hate. He may have helped Liz pick up the pieces of her broken heart after Zach stopped calling, but he does NOT treat Liz right, in any way, shape or form.
Will Liz ever accept that Zach wasn’t trying to hurt her when he stopped talking to her? Will Zach convince Liz he’s still the same boy, just a little more grown up, as the boy she fell in love with in high school? Or will Liz continue to push Zach away, pretending their relationship won’t work, and stay with Joe? I guess you’ll have to read it yourself to find out!
February 11, 2015
(Never) Again is a sweet romance that has some intense, serious moments. When Liz runs into ex-boyfriend, Zach, on her college campus, she panics. After all, he's the boy who broke her heart. Her first love, the boy who left town and stopped calling. She's understandably pissed and wants nothing to do with him, except he keeps showing up everywhere. He doesn't seem to care that she has a boyfriend. A boyfriend she loves. Except her love for Joe is vanilla compared to the double-dutch chocolate goodness that was her love for Zach. Was being the key word. She's over him, right?
Yeah, not so much. Zach is always there for her when she needs him, annoyingly so. It's clear these two belong together, but Liz isn't sure she's willing to take a chance on Zach again. She isn't sure she can survive another Zach-induced heartache, and she really, really loves Joe. She thinks.
Plot
I love romances about lost loves and second chances, and (Never) Again has all of the ingredients of a really good one. Liz was devastated by Zach's leaving and she doesn't understand why he just suddenly stopped calling her. Zach tries to pretend nothing is wrong, but Liz isn't afraid to let him have it every chance she gets. Liz knows she never really got over Zach, but she's sure he's over her. Why else did he abandon her? It's obvious to everyone but Liz that Zach still has it bad for her. I knew these two would end up together, I just wasn't sure how it was going to happen. I definitely enjoyed the story and it's a fast read.
World Building
Set on the campus of a small college, I felt the world-building was solid. The characters acted and spoke like college students and the settings were authentic.
Characters
All of the characters were very likeable, even Joe. There was minimal growth by Liz and at times, I thought she was being stubborn for the stake of stubbornness, but overall, all the characters were well developed for the roles they played.
Top Five Things I Enjoyed About (Never) Again
1. Liz's love of baking. It's definitely something I can relate to.
2. The bromance between Zach and Liz's older brother, Josh.
3. The party from hell. It was pretty much every bad party I've ever had, rolled into one.
4. The tragic event that brings Zach and Liz together. I won't spoil anything, but it was really well done and I never saw it coming.
5. Tanya. She could easily have been portrayed as the stereotypical bitchy girl, but I love that she was much more well-rounded.
Bottom Line
(Never) Again is a sweet romance about lost love and second chances.
Disclaimer
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Yeah, not so much. Zach is always there for her when she needs him, annoyingly so. It's clear these two belong together, but Liz isn't sure she's willing to take a chance on Zach again. She isn't sure she can survive another Zach-induced heartache, and she really, really loves Joe. She thinks.
Plot
I love romances about lost loves and second chances, and (Never) Again has all of the ingredients of a really good one. Liz was devastated by Zach's leaving and she doesn't understand why he just suddenly stopped calling her. Zach tries to pretend nothing is wrong, but Liz isn't afraid to let him have it every chance she gets. Liz knows she never really got over Zach, but she's sure he's over her. Why else did he abandon her? It's obvious to everyone but Liz that Zach still has it bad for her. I knew these two would end up together, I just wasn't sure how it was going to happen. I definitely enjoyed the story and it's a fast read.
World Building
Set on the campus of a small college, I felt the world-building was solid. The characters acted and spoke like college students and the settings were authentic.
Characters
All of the characters were very likeable, even Joe. There was minimal growth by Liz and at times, I thought she was being stubborn for the stake of stubbornness, but overall, all the characters were well developed for the roles they played.
Top Five Things I Enjoyed About (Never) Again
1. Liz's love of baking. It's definitely something I can relate to.
2. The bromance between Zach and Liz's older brother, Josh.
3. The party from hell. It was pretty much every bad party I've ever had, rolled into one.
4. The tragic event that brings Zach and Liz together. I won't spoil anything, but it was really well done and I never saw it coming.
5. Tanya. She could easily have been portrayed as the stereotypical bitchy girl, but I love that she was much more well-rounded.
Bottom Line
(Never) Again is a sweet romance about lost love and second chances.
Disclaimer
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2013
There were some major issues with this story that I could not overlook. First, let me talk about the things I found interesting about this story.
The author, Theresa Paolo, did a wonderful job of drawing me into the story in the beginning. She gave me enough information to keep me intrigued as to why Liz was so conflicted with Zach's return. I enjoyed watching her struggle with her emotions and how the author went about bringing it to the page.
I also enjoyed Zach as a character. He was picture perfect - handsome, caring and honest. He treated Liz well and only wanted what was best for her.
But then the second guessing and the whiplash inducing ramblings began. I want him. I want him NOT. I forgive him. I forgive him NOT. Damn girl, make up your mind! Yes, I like my heroine to struggle with their decisions, to question and to ponder but this was ridiculous. More so because all this was based on an issue that wasn't that big a deal in the first place.
People drift apart, deal with it head on and when the times comes for a confrontation speak your mind, weight the pros and cons of forgiving and forgetting and move on with your life with or without the person in question. Maybe I'm just too old to comprehend Liz's behavior and it clouded my judgement of her. I just could not connect to her and feel for her how I've done for other characters in the genre.
What saved the story for me were the additional plot points that were going on besides the romance part of the story. Theresa Paolo deepened the emotions and threw me some curves which helped to keep my attention and continue reading.
I still think this was a pretty good story that just didn't reach its potential in my eyes. The story could have gone a different way and some questions could have been answered better, but I'm no author so I can accept this story for what it is - a sweet, romantic tale about reconnecting with the one that got away and seeing if the connection you once had can be reignited again.
I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
The author, Theresa Paolo, did a wonderful job of drawing me into the story in the beginning. She gave me enough information to keep me intrigued as to why Liz was so conflicted with Zach's return. I enjoyed watching her struggle with her emotions and how the author went about bringing it to the page.
I also enjoyed Zach as a character. He was picture perfect - handsome, caring and honest. He treated Liz well and only wanted what was best for her.
But then the second guessing and the whiplash inducing ramblings began. I want him. I want him NOT. I forgive him. I forgive him NOT. Damn girl, make up your mind! Yes, I like my heroine to struggle with their decisions, to question and to ponder but this was ridiculous. More so because all this was based on an issue that wasn't that big a deal in the first place.
People drift apart, deal with it head on and when the times comes for a confrontation speak your mind, weight the pros and cons of forgiving and forgetting and move on with your life with or without the person in question. Maybe I'm just too old to comprehend Liz's behavior and it clouded my judgement of her. I just could not connect to her and feel for her how I've done for other characters in the genre.
What saved the story for me were the additional plot points that were going on besides the romance part of the story. Theresa Paolo deepened the emotions and threw me some curves which helped to keep my attention and continue reading.
I still think this was a pretty good story that just didn't reach its potential in my eyes. The story could have gone a different way and some questions could have been answered better, but I'm no author so I can accept this story for what it is - a sweet, romantic tale about reconnecting with the one that got away and seeing if the connection you once had can be reignited again.
I received this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
March 2, 2014
My first read from this author and most definitely not my last! Never Again is a story told in first person about Liz Wagner and how she's starting life in college. At eighteen she knows all about heartbreak as the boy she loved moved away and never kept in touch. Falling into depression she let her school work slide and missed out on going to the college of her dreams. Now she's rebuilt her life and has even managed to find happiness with Joe and then one day everything changes. Zach Roberts is back! Feeling like life is kicking her in the teeth Liz is expected to just smile and carry on as if her world didn't fall apart when he deserted her. To make matters worse Zach is constantly around and just so perfect!
Struggling to balance her feelings for Joe whilst avoiding Zach is not an easy task. To add insult to injury Liz's own brother Josh is all friendly with him as well and then one day life changes. Tragedy strikes and Liz needs support more than ever. Can she trust Zach or will he let her down again? What about her relationship with Joe? Will it stand up to the pressure that surrounds them all?
I am speechless with admiration at the sheer depth of this book. The author has written a story that whilst aimed at a young adult market is full of heart. The heroine Liz is just a dream to read about as she struggles with coming to terms with her adulthood and the complications that romance can bring. She's bright and funny and her opinion that life just bitch slaps her is one that will resonate with a lot of readers. This story is full of well written characters and humour. It's impossible not to care for Liz and Zach. When tragedy strikes its a shock and written in such a way that the reader cannot help but feel emotionally involved. Truly moving.
Well done Ms. Paolo and more please.
Struggling to balance her feelings for Joe whilst avoiding Zach is not an easy task. To add insult to injury Liz's own brother Josh is all friendly with him as well and then one day life changes. Tragedy strikes and Liz needs support more than ever. Can she trust Zach or will he let her down again? What about her relationship with Joe? Will it stand up to the pressure that surrounds them all?
I am speechless with admiration at the sheer depth of this book. The author has written a story that whilst aimed at a young adult market is full of heart. The heroine Liz is just a dream to read about as she struggles with coming to terms with her adulthood and the complications that romance can bring. She's bright and funny and her opinion that life just bitch slaps her is one that will resonate with a lot of readers. This story is full of well written characters and humour. It's impossible not to care for Liz and Zach. When tragedy strikes its a shock and written in such a way that the reader cannot help but feel emotionally involved. Truly moving.
Well done Ms. Paolo and more please.
September 12, 2013
3.5 stars
I enjoyed reading (Never) Again and would have rated it higher if only I had gotten past how much Liz annoyed me.
Good lord the girl went on and on about Zach not calling her after he moved across the country and how he broke her heart so what does she do when he comes back to town?
She ignores him, she tells her best friend she's over him and that shes happy with her current boyfriend (ugh don't start me on that loser)
Look I get it, she was heartbroken when Zach stop all communications after he left but to ignore the obvious connection she has with Zach for so long was hard to see/read.
Reading her interactions with Joe (the loser BF) you can tell it wasn't anything deep, there was no spark at all. I felt she was only with him to help her forget about Zach.
Zach's a good guy, he comes back to help with the care of his ailing grandmother and while he wants Liz to forgive him he doesn't push.
He tries to have a friendship with Liz but as we all know it's hard to be friends after being BF & GF. How do you forget the love you once shared?
I really enjoyed the storyline and I would have given (Never) Again 4 stars if it wasn't for my lack of connection to Liz.
The secondary characters helped make the story enjoyable, I really enjoyed reading Liz's interactions with her brother Josh.
I hope the author Theresa Paolo is planning on writing a book on Josh as I got the feeling he has his own heartbreak love story to tell.
If you're looking for a story of 2 people finding their way back to each other you will enjoy (Never) Again, like I said the storyline was good and swooning over Zach is a plus :P
Thank you to NetGalley & PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL/Signet Romance, DAW for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed reading (Never) Again and would have rated it higher if only I had gotten past how much Liz annoyed me.
Good lord the girl went on and on about Zach not calling her after he moved across the country and how he broke her heart so what does she do when he comes back to town?
She ignores him, she tells her best friend she's over him and that shes happy with her current boyfriend (ugh don't start me on that loser)
Look I get it, she was heartbroken when Zach stop all communications after he left but to ignore the obvious connection she has with Zach for so long was hard to see/read.
Reading her interactions with Joe (the loser BF) you can tell it wasn't anything deep, there was no spark at all. I felt she was only with him to help her forget about Zach.
Zach's a good guy, he comes back to help with the care of his ailing grandmother and while he wants Liz to forgive him he doesn't push.
He tries to have a friendship with Liz but as we all know it's hard to be friends after being BF & GF. How do you forget the love you once shared?
I really enjoyed the storyline and I would have given (Never) Again 4 stars if it wasn't for my lack of connection to Liz.
The secondary characters helped make the story enjoyable, I really enjoyed reading Liz's interactions with her brother Josh.
I hope the author Theresa Paolo is planning on writing a book on Josh as I got the feeling he has his own heartbreak love story to tell.
If you're looking for a story of 2 people finding their way back to each other you will enjoy (Never) Again, like I said the storyline was good and swooning over Zach is a plus :P
Thank you to NetGalley & PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL/Signet Romance, DAW for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 17, 2014
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Never) Again is book #1 in the Again series. This is the first book I have read by this author and I was gifted a copy in exchange for my honest review.
It’s been ages since I have read a college romance so straight from the off this book made me smile. What also made me chuckle in agreement is that in the author bio at the back of the book it says that Theresa Paolo has a hard time accepting that she’s nearing 30 which is why she writes YA and NA books!!! I’m 31 and completely agree I love them because they make me feel young!!!!
Oh to be young and stupid again, cause lets me honest this book is daft!!! She loves him, he loves her it should be simple.
Do you know what though I don’t care that its daft, I loved that at 18 love can be the most complex thing in the world.
Liz is so incredibly young and naive but I really liked that she was so innocent and sweet, not every young girl has to be jaded and bitter. Liz is a nice young girl and it was a lovely change.
I loved that it’s Zach who has the geek to gorgeous makeover moment; he went away a skinny, spotty geek and came back a year later hot and ripped and a fully grown man lol!!
Joe is an ass she totally should have kicked his butt to the curb a lot quicker!!!
Zach seems so much older and more mature than Lizzie, I liked him but I do feel like a bit of a perv swooning over an 18 year old fictional character lol.
This book is the perfect New Adult sunny afternoon read. Whether you are trying to remember your youth or are young enough to relate this book will leave you with a smile on your face.
(Never) Again gets 4 stars from me.
Never) Again is book #1 in the Again series. This is the first book I have read by this author and I was gifted a copy in exchange for my honest review.
It’s been ages since I have read a college romance so straight from the off this book made me smile. What also made me chuckle in agreement is that in the author bio at the back of the book it says that Theresa Paolo has a hard time accepting that she’s nearing 30 which is why she writes YA and NA books!!! I’m 31 and completely agree I love them because they make me feel young!!!!
Oh to be young and stupid again, cause lets me honest this book is daft!!! She loves him, he loves her it should be simple.
Do you know what though I don’t care that its daft, I loved that at 18 love can be the most complex thing in the world.
Liz is so incredibly young and naive but I really liked that she was so innocent and sweet, not every young girl has to be jaded and bitter. Liz is a nice young girl and it was a lovely change.
I loved that it’s Zach who has the geek to gorgeous makeover moment; he went away a skinny, spotty geek and came back a year later hot and ripped and a fully grown man lol!!
Joe is an ass she totally should have kicked his butt to the curb a lot quicker!!!
Zach seems so much older and more mature than Lizzie, I liked him but I do feel like a bit of a perv swooning over an 18 year old fictional character lol.
This book is the perfect New Adult sunny afternoon read. Whether you are trying to remember your youth or are young enough to relate this book will leave you with a smile on your face.
(Never) Again gets 4 stars from me.
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