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A review by reneetc
Ask Me Again by E.J. Noyes
5.0
Where does one begin with this review? Well, for starters, I can’t help but to compare this story with [b:Ask, Tell|31374674|Ask, Tell|E.J. Noyes|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1475303757l/31374674._SX50_.jpg|52063970]. By a difference that is baaaarely recognizable, Ask, Tell is a better story of the two because of its unique storyline. I empathized with Sabine in Ask, Tell. Her girlfriend abruptly ended their nine-year relationship in the worst possible way, which caused Sabine to breakdown emotionally. With the exception of Jana and Mitch, Sabine could not unload her “toxic thoughts” or explain the reason for her breakdown to anyone. Seeking professional help was a no-go because the DADT policy forced her to keep her sexuality hidden. In Sabine’s own words, she had to “…swallow it down like poison.” She just could not tell. Then in steps Sabine’s crush and boss, LTC Rebecca Keane. Sabine and Rebecca “stumble[d] into something wonderful.” Hidden from view, they established a beautiful, sensual relationship; however, regulations and the DADT policy prevented them from openly expressing their love for each other. They just could not tell.
Fast-forward a few years to the repeal of the DADT policy in effect. The unique storyline of Ask, Tell transforms into Ask Me Again, a heartwarming, romantic story between Sabine and Rebecca who have become “inextricably intertwined.” Sabine does not like who she has become because she is struggling with PTSD. The Incident has left Sabine wallowing in self-pity and entrapped in a cycle of what-ifs. However, unlike Ask, Tell, Sabine can tell. Along with the continued support of her family and close friends, Sabine has friend-therapy sessions with Gavin, her companion during The Incident, and professional-therapy sessions with LTC Andrew Pace, her shrink. Then there is the unrelenting, caring support of Rebecca. In her own words, “I stay, I fight, I try because I love you.” You talk about the perfect companion! Rebecca is patient, compassionate, intellectual, faithful (“Kick rocks, Vanessa!”), and downright sexy as hell. Including her POV adds to the complexity and emotional appeal of the story. Likewise, Rebecca’s overall POV symbolizes hope, which counteracts Sabine’s self-destructive thoughts and actions. As stated before, Sabine and Rebecca are “inextricably intertwined” and what better way to show the dynamics of their intimate connection than to include both of their POVs. I empathized with Sabine in the first book, but now that I have had the chance to “head hop” into Rebecca’s thoughts, their love feels much more authentic, much more sensual, and much more...everything.
All right, I am done rambling. Ask Me Again is an awesome continuation of Ask, Tell. Sabine and Rebecca's continued journey will stay with you long after you have read the last page of their tale.
Fast-forward a few years to the repeal of the DADT policy in effect. The unique storyline of Ask, Tell transforms into Ask Me Again, a heartwarming, romantic story between Sabine and Rebecca who have become “inextricably intertwined.” Sabine does not like who she has become because she is struggling with PTSD. The Incident has left Sabine wallowing in self-pity and entrapped in a cycle of what-ifs. However, unlike Ask, Tell, Sabine can tell. Along with the continued support of her family and close friends, Sabine has friend-therapy sessions with Gavin, her companion during The Incident, and professional-therapy sessions with LTC Andrew Pace, her shrink. Then there is the unrelenting, caring support of Rebecca. In her own words, “I stay, I fight, I try because I love you.” You talk about the perfect companion! Rebecca is patient, compassionate, intellectual, faithful (“Kick rocks, Vanessa!”), and downright sexy as hell. Including her POV adds to the complexity and emotional appeal of the story. Likewise, Rebecca’s overall POV symbolizes hope, which counteracts Sabine’s self-destructive thoughts and actions. As stated before, Sabine and Rebecca are “inextricably intertwined” and what better way to show the dynamics of their intimate connection than to include both of their POVs. I empathized with Sabine in the first book, but now that I have had the chance to “head hop” into Rebecca’s thoughts, their love feels much more authentic, much more sensual, and much more...everything.
All right, I am done rambling. Ask Me Again is an awesome continuation of Ask, Tell. Sabine and Rebecca's continued journey will stay with you long after you have read the last page of their tale.