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Being There
When Cass Howard was young, she never dreamed she would have the perfect job, living in New York, with an amazing man by her side. That’s a good thing…because none of that ever happened. Drew Alexander was the one person who knew Cass better than almost anyone, and the friendship that developed in high school carried them to college. Despite the distance, their bond grew stronger, revealing to each of them what they meant to each other. A series of fleeting moments and a string of failed relationships helped them realize that what they really wanted, what they needed, was each other. But that was five years ago, and sometimes things just don’t work out. Now twenty-five, Cass finds herself living in Houston, working at a small publishing house as an editor. By most accounts, she appears happy, however she has managed to avoid a true relationship, opting to channel all of her energy on work, despite protests from her best friend. The only thing that can drag her away is the annual girls’ weekend, which comes at the best possible time, because Cass has just learned life-altering news. With the most recent blow to her life looming overhead, will the getaway with her closest friends change her outlook on life? Or will her inability to put the past behind her stifle any chance she has of moving on? Will she ever be able to open up and let those who love her be there for her?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2013
5 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
T.K. Rapp
14 books275 followersTK has called Texas home, even when she was living elsewhere with her Navy husband.
As a work-from-home/stay-at-home mom, she found joy in photography, which led the way to pursuing her dream of writing just one book. Her first novel, Being There, was self-published in 2013.
When. she's not writing, she can be found doing home renovations with her dad, or doing the empty nest thing. She and her husband enjoy spending time on the water, visiting their daughters at college, or just being with friends and family.
As a work-from-home/stay-at-home mom, she found joy in photography, which led the way to pursuing her dream of writing just one book. Her first novel, Being There, was self-published in 2013.
When. she's not writing, she can be found doing home renovations with her dad, or doing the empty nest thing. She and her husband enjoy spending time on the water, visiting their daughters at college, or just being with friends and family.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 1, 2013
BEAUTIFUL. This author’s writing style is so engaging and tangible, and the phenomenal character development shines through in this romantic tale of love and friendship. The maturity, the very real and believable emotions and reactions, and the humor… what a great, unforgettable story. Oh, that journal!! Loved Cass and Drew!! Can’t wait for more from the very talented TK Rapp!
September 1, 2013
An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. To view this full review and more by Lo, visit http://fallinginfall.blogspot.com.
Oh.My.Goodness. Best book I've read in a long time! I rated Being There with FIVE LEAVES!! I'm not even sure where to start because I don't think my review will do it justice. I want to start off with saying that ALL of our FALLowers need to grab this book and give it a go. I LOVE Cass and Drew. From the beginning of the book, we find out that Cass Howard is very structured with the way she lives her life. She has everything in order and gives 110% with everything she does, including her work. Cass finds out very early on in this story that not all things in life can be controlled. She is thrown through a big loop and has to start working through these obstacles. Before she does this, she decides to go on a little get away with her best friend. This is when her past comes back and makes her question everything she knows.
In high school, Drew Alexander is the boy that every girl wants to be with. He is extremely popular and knows how to handle every situation with ease. When Drew and Cass end up working on a school project together, they become close friends and stay that way for a long time. Through all their ups and downs, they love each other as friends, but is there more?
This is such a wonderful story about friendship and love. This book shows us that sometimes we may have something in our past that didn't turn out the way we wanted, but we need to let go of grudges and mishaps from the past and learn to move on and trust again.
I can tell by this story that T.K Rapp has a beautiful style of writing. Everything flowed perfectly and smoothly. I suggest you set aside some time to read this book because the second you pick it up and start reading, you won't be able to put it down until the last page is finished! I sure can't wait to read more by T.K. Rapp!
Oh.My.Goodness. Best book I've read in a long time! I rated Being There with FIVE LEAVES!! I'm not even sure where to start because I don't think my review will do it justice. I want to start off with saying that ALL of our FALLowers need to grab this book and give it a go. I LOVE Cass and Drew. From the beginning of the book, we find out that Cass Howard is very structured with the way she lives her life. She has everything in order and gives 110% with everything she does, including her work. Cass finds out very early on in this story that not all things in life can be controlled. She is thrown through a big loop and has to start working through these obstacles. Before she does this, she decides to go on a little get away with her best friend. This is when her past comes back and makes her question everything she knows.
In high school, Drew Alexander is the boy that every girl wants to be with. He is extremely popular and knows how to handle every situation with ease. When Drew and Cass end up working on a school project together, they become close friends and stay that way for a long time. Through all their ups and downs, they love each other as friends, but is there more?
This is such a wonderful story about friendship and love. This book shows us that sometimes we may have something in our past that didn't turn out the way we wanted, but we need to let go of grudges and mishaps from the past and learn to move on and trust again.
I can tell by this story that T.K Rapp has a beautiful style of writing. Everything flowed perfectly and smoothly. I suggest you set aside some time to read this book because the second you pick it up and start reading, you won't be able to put it down until the last page is finished! I sure can't wait to read more by T.K. Rapp!
November 11, 2013
I love the storyline and character development. What a cool refreshing read for the summer. If you don't have time to sit and read - DO NOT pick this book up because YOU WON't WANT TO PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. Great job TK Rapp.
September 7, 2013
OMG! This book was absolutely fantastic! I am anxious to get to read more books by this author in the future.
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April 11, 2014LOVED IT!!!
This was a beautiful and touching story. You can't help but fall in love with each character. They blend so perfectly together. Totally recommend.
This was a beautiful and touching story. You can't help but fall in love with each character. They blend so perfectly together. Totally recommend.
April 14, 2016
I've been thinking about this review for days and I'm still not sure what to make of this book. Ultimately it was written well.
The first half of the book alternates between past and present; the second half takes place only in the present. In chapter 1, 25 yr old Cass is diagnosed with breast cancer and this begins a process of her re-evaluating her life and her past. She's had a reliable best girl friend (Nev), and up until 5 years ago, a male best friend/wannabe boyfriend (Drew). We then spend the next many chapters alternating between the past -- how she meets both Nevaeh and Drew -- and then the present -- where she reunites with Drew and begins treatment.
[I'd like to note that the description on Amazon and GoodReads doesn't mention the breast cancer as if it's going to be a mystery, but in fact we learn her diagnosis in the first chapter, which you can read as a sample online. The real mystery is what the deal is with her relationship with Drew and why they haven't spoken in 5 years... and to me it was way more than "sometimes things just don't work out."]
There is an HEA.
I gave this 4 stars (3.5 really), because the plot was interesting enough to hold my attention and was actually memorable -- but I hated how the present day played out.
I just wasn't buying Drew or Cassi in present day. It's already a weird dynamic to be reunited after 5 years after a messy "ending" -- and that's interesting in and of itself -- but then she's got breast cancer on top of it. But I realize now that this book isn't about the breast cancer as much as it is having to rely on others during really tough situations and if you can rely on people who you used love and trust, but now are not so sure.
And just because I have a venue to say this, I will:
While she did reach out via facebook, a couple of messages does not a relationship make...and suddenly (it seems) after two days of seeing each other again, he's all like "I'm going to take care of you" and she lets him and it made me uncomfortable because it felt out of left field, despite their history. I was never really sure where Cass stood with Drew then or now as she often seems confused, and that was hard to read.
And I'm sorry, but what Drew did 5 years ago was pretty d-baggy, and his explanation sucked, and she had every right to be angry. And I completely disagree with Nev when she told C that she should hear D's explanation. First of all it's 5 years later and C makes a good point -- he didn't really do enough to try to rebuild their friendship after she told him why she was angry, so why rehash it. The whole thing with the Drew journal was interesting, but not strong enough. ARGH.
The first half of the book alternates between past and present; the second half takes place only in the present. In chapter 1, 25 yr old Cass is diagnosed with breast cancer and this begins a process of her re-evaluating her life and her past. She's had a reliable best girl friend (Nev), and up until 5 years ago, a male best friend/wannabe boyfriend (Drew). We then spend the next many chapters alternating between the past -- how she meets both Nevaeh and Drew -- and then the present -- where she reunites with Drew and begins treatment.
[I'd like to note that the description on Amazon and GoodReads doesn't mention the breast cancer as if it's going to be a mystery, but in fact we learn her diagnosis in the first chapter, which you can read as a sample online. The real mystery is what the deal is with her relationship with Drew and why they haven't spoken in 5 years... and to me it was way more than "sometimes things just don't work out."]
There is an HEA.
I gave this 4 stars (3.5 really), because the plot was interesting enough to hold my attention and was actually memorable -- but I hated how the present day played out.
I just wasn't buying Drew or Cassi in present day. It's already a weird dynamic to be reunited after 5 years after a messy "ending" -- and that's interesting in and of itself -- but then she's got breast cancer on top of it. But I realize now that this book isn't about the breast cancer as much as it is having to rely on others during really tough situations and if you can rely on people who you used love and trust, but now are not so sure.
And just because I have a venue to say this, I will:
While she did reach out via facebook, a couple of messages does not a relationship make...and suddenly (it seems) after two days of seeing each other again, he's all like "I'm going to take care of you" and she lets him and it made me uncomfortable because it felt out of left field, despite their history. I was never really sure where Cass stood with Drew then or now as she often seems confused, and that was hard to read.
And I'm sorry, but what Drew did 5 years ago was pretty d-baggy, and his explanation sucked, and she had every right to be angry. And I completely disagree with Nev when she told C that she should hear D's explanation. First of all it's 5 years later and C makes a good point -- he didn't really do enough to try to rebuild their friendship after she told him why she was angry, so why rehash it. The whole thing with the Drew journal was interesting, but not strong enough. ARGH.
November 6, 2013
Five years ago Cass Howard lost the relationship that mattered – she lost her best friend. As her relationship with Drew Alexander strengthened through high school mishaps, physical distance and a string of unfortunate ill-timed instances, Cass hoped that they would realize what they meant to each other. Alas, a future together was not meant to be.
Five years later, Cass has transplanted herself in Houston, struggling to find success as an editor in a small publishing house. She seems happy. She has one of her best friends by her side; she has the support of her family, and she is happy living alone. A visit to the doctor’s office shatters her careful plans. Facing an uncertain future, she puts all worries aside and vows to enjoy an annual girl’s weekend away. Little did she know what fate had in store for her that weekend. Will she be able to put the past aside and allow the person she holds most dear to be there for her?
Being There is a story of love, friendship, acceptance and faith. T.K. Rapp gives us glimpses of what happened in the past through alternating past and present points of view. Told from Cass’ perspective, we see how insecure the main character can be, and how she struggles to find the inner strength she needs to face her future.
As a first time author, T.K. Rapp succeeds in capturing the reader’s attention with this story. The situation that Cass finds herself in is a situation that all women fear. The title of the book can be taken from the point of view of Cass, as well as the point of view of those who love and support her. I caught a few typos, and felt that the character development could be better. The pacing of the story was steady – it was not rushed, it wasn’t too slow. If you are looking for an edge-of-your-seat type of story, this is not it. If you are looking for a story that has peaks and valleys, this is not it. This is a story told at a steady pace; yet has you rooting for the happily-ever-after.
I won’t say more as I would hate to give you spoilers. If you are looking for a good book that is flying under the radar, check out Being There by T.K. Rapp.
March 13, 2014
This was a great book. It was a heartwarming story about second chances when life throws you one even when Cassi is too afraid to admit she really needs one. I love a book that dose the flash backs and this one has those chapters. The story flowed easily and had a lot of emotion and a really good plot. It's sad, happy, frustrating, funny, and keeps you wanting more at the end of every page from beginning to end. This story start after collage days so the characters are adults with jobs just trying to face what life throws at them. I liked it a lot. I say read it!! This book is a standalone. But I definitely want to read more of T.K. Rapp.
June 30, 2014
This book oscillated between the main characters’ time in high school and as adults but I would consider it more of a YA read. It is about second chance romance and was pretty touching. The book opened with Cass being diagnosed with breast cancer. Being sentimental after her diagnosis, she began reminiscing about her past friendship, especially that with Drew. How they became best friends and what led to the demise of their friendship. They reconnected after a five-year absence. Cass was very independent and stubborn and really built up a wall. It was sweet to read how Drew was persistent in breaking down her walls with his attentiveness and love.
October 30, 2013
T.K. Rapp you are an amazing writer! By 11% in I was hooked. Cass and Drew were such wonderful characters that I loved to watch grow, they aggravated me, made me laugh, and definitely made me cry. This was such a beautiful story to read and I hope there is more to come from this author because I truly enjoyed her writing style.
March 25, 2014
I know I am in the minority here with my 3-star review, but at the star count says - I did "like it". I didn't love it as I felt no connection to the characters, but that was just something that didn't translate to me. Still a good story and very heartfelt.
December 11, 2013
I was gifted this book.
What a heart warming story.About a girl that you get to watch grow from high school age,through collage,and into her mid 20's.You meet her bff's.I was not able to put this book down. I will be rereading it I'm sure.A must read.
What a heart warming story.About a girl that you get to watch grow from high school age,through collage,and into her mid 20's.You meet her bff's.I was not able to put this book down. I will be rereading it I'm sure.A must read.
April 11, 2014
Loved this beautiful, heartbreaking, and encouraging story. Drew and Cass are wonderful together and the strength they each have only strengthens them. Drew is an amazing man. Loved him instantly. Great book and refreshing story line.
February 18, 2015
Heart swelling!
Best friends who fall in love-adorable and overdone, right? Wrong! This book is so much more than that!
Overall, this is about fighting for what you want and need out of life. And realizing that the people who won't leave you are absolutely priceless!
Best friends who fall in love-adorable and overdone, right? Wrong! This book is so much more than that!
Overall, this is about fighting for what you want and need out of life. And realizing that the people who won't leave you are absolutely priceless!
September 8, 2013
I really like the writing style and did enjoy the characters but I was bothered by the "conflict" between Drew & Cass.
I definitely look forward to reading more from this author.
I definitely look forward to reading more from this author.
September 21, 2013
I thought it was a cute sweet sad but happy read, it had me captivated at parts but it was also a bit slow. I loved that it was a romance about adults and still 100% clean. I did enjoy it. 3.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2014
I absolutely LOVED this novel! The author does such a fabulous job with the character development and story line. It's a book you won't want to put down and one that leaves you hoping for more.
March 14, 2014
This is a must read! Beautiful story of love and friendship. The characters become your friends and you want only the best for them.
October 21, 2014
Lovely, really enjoyed the story.
October 17, 2013
I just finished Being There and really liked the story. It was very cute. Drew and Cass have known each other since high school, like usually everyone they have grown apart and do not talk anymore. We are at the beginning with Cass as she receives devastating news. She really honestly doesn't know how to take it but understands that is the deal that she was dealt with and she will have to live with it. In her position (which I hope I never have too) I would have done the same. Kicked, screamed, and cried. I really felt bad for her. You then find out that she is going to go on a trip with her best friend from high school Nev, she doesn't tell her everything but NEv believes she has an idea of what is going on but Cass goes on the trip. As she begins to pack she ends up looking for a box that has all of her stuff from being little to a certain age. She finds picture of Drew, her and Nev. She ends up thinking about the past so you get to see how she met Drew and Nev. You will also get to see why Drew and Cass are no longer talking.
I really liked the story, plot had me at the very beginning. It flowed really well. I liked most of all how it went from present to past because you really got to see these characters grow and you end up loving them even more.
I loved Cass, she is your kiss my ass type of girl and I really enjoyed that in this story, especially what she has to go through, she has a lot of spunk and courage.
I loved Drew too. He was sweet, understanding and was basically his ying to her yang. Always close, always loved, never forgotten.
I loved the secondary characters too. Nev and Luke. They were awesome. Really good friends to Drew and Cass.
If you are looking for a story were you will laugh, cry, mad and most of all love the characters, then this one is for you. I really enjoyed and was happy that I was able to read this.
Story 5
Sex 3
Overall 4
Reviewed by Beggin from Mommys a Book Whore
I really liked the story, plot had me at the very beginning. It flowed really well. I liked most of all how it went from present to past because you really got to see these characters grow and you end up loving them even more.
I loved Cass, she is your kiss my ass type of girl and I really enjoyed that in this story, especially what she has to go through, she has a lot of spunk and courage.
I loved Drew too. He was sweet, understanding and was basically his ying to her yang. Always close, always loved, never forgotten.
I loved the secondary characters too. Nev and Luke. They were awesome. Really good friends to Drew and Cass.
If you are looking for a story were you will laugh, cry, mad and most of all love the characters, then this one is for you. I really enjoyed and was happy that I was able to read this.
Story 5
Sex 3
Overall 4
Reviewed by Beggin from Mommys a Book Whore
November 6, 2014
On Sale NOW $0.99
January 15, 2018
3.5 stars
February 22, 2020
A friend of mine is a T.K. Rapp fan, so I wanted to try a book and see what I thought. To be honest, I chose this one primarily by price point, which means that it's also an early release from Rapp. I'm not going to form a final opinion about their work based solely on this book, which is good, because I wasn't blown away.
The heroine in this story is unfortunately not an uncommon type - she had a unpleasant experience and has somehow allowed it to dictate her life choices since then. I'm not one to advocate comparing how "hard" your life is, but honestly, I'd classify it in "life experience" category, not genuine trauma. But somehow her whole emotional development from late teens to young adulthood just stops because of this one thing. You are free to disagree, but to me, that falls into the category of manufactured drama to create some kind of plot. It's lazy and irritating, so I can't really recommend this book.
To be honest, I didn't pay as much attention to the writing and the state of the editing, because I was kind of annoyed. It can't have been too horrible or especially amazing, since it didn't make enough impact for me to remember. At some point, I'll try a newer release and hope the situation has improved.
The heroine in this story is unfortunately not an uncommon type - she had a unpleasant experience and has somehow allowed it to dictate her life choices since then. I'm not one to advocate comparing how "hard" your life is, but honestly, I'd classify it in "life experience" category, not genuine trauma. But somehow her whole emotional development from late teens to young adulthood just stops because of this one thing. You are free to disagree, but to me, that falls into the category of manufactured drama to create some kind of plot. It's lazy and irritating, so I can't really recommend this book.
To be honest, I didn't pay as much attention to the writing and the state of the editing, because I was kind of annoyed. It can't have been too horrible or especially amazing, since it didn't make enough impact for me to remember. At some point, I'll try a newer release and hope the situation has improved.
September 2, 2013
I was approached by Lisa asking if I had heard or read BEING THERE by T.K. Rapp. I admitted that no I had not and she proceeded to tell me that it was an awesome read that is flying under the radar at the moment and to give it a try. I am beyond happy that I did. This is a first book for T.K. Rapp and I hope there are many more to come from her. This is truly a hidden gem that should be exploding on the scene in my opinion.
I started this just after 4pm and stayed up until midnight reading. I didn't finish it at that point though because I was only at 74% and knew if I didn't make myself put it down then and there I would be up until at least 3am finishing it.
We are introduced to Cass in the beginning as she is getting some life changing news. This results in her taking a walk down memory lane where we are introduced to Drew her best friend from long ago that she hasn't seen or talked to in years. We are told their story as the chapters alternate between the present and the past giving us little glimpses of what happened to them. Also along with us is her other best friend Nev, an outspoken gal who is fierce and loyal. A friend you would really want along with you.
I can't say much because I don't want to give anything away but I was on a roller coaster along with Cass feeling her emotions bleed through the pages and into my heart. Everything she was going through or had gone through I couldn't help but feel my heart break for her and at the same time want to shake her and wake her up. Cass is many things, quiet, organized, hard working, loyal, self-sacrificing (to a fault!), afraid, but most of all full of love.
Drew, I just loved Drew. The way he and Cass meet and the bond that is formed just made me smile. He is so carrying and loving and patient, so freaking patient. When the drama goes down I have to admit that while I saw why Cass was mad, I would have been too, I couldn't help but side with Drew. I just wanted to shake Cass and hope some common sense clicked into place.
Ms. Rapp shows us that life is bigger than us and somethings in life are left to fate.
BEING THERE was a breath of fresh air and took me for a ride. Scenes were beautifully constructed and had me holding my breath and holding back tears. I was happy, sad, concerned, fearful, hopeful and elated all within this well written story. I found myself believing in fate, more than just a concept but as a reality. BEING THERE will reach deep inside and take hold of you.
I started this just after 4pm and stayed up until midnight reading. I didn't finish it at that point though because I was only at 74% and knew if I didn't make myself put it down then and there I would be up until at least 3am finishing it.
We are introduced to Cass in the beginning as she is getting some life changing news. This results in her taking a walk down memory lane where we are introduced to Drew her best friend from long ago that she hasn't seen or talked to in years. We are told their story as the chapters alternate between the present and the past giving us little glimpses of what happened to them. Also along with us is her other best friend Nev, an outspoken gal who is fierce and loyal. A friend you would really want along with you.
I can't say much because I don't want to give anything away but I was on a roller coaster along with Cass feeling her emotions bleed through the pages and into my heart. Everything she was going through or had gone through I couldn't help but feel my heart break for her and at the same time want to shake her and wake her up. Cass is many things, quiet, organized, hard working, loyal, self-sacrificing (to a fault!), afraid, but most of all full of love.
Drew, I just loved Drew. The way he and Cass meet and the bond that is formed just made me smile. He is so carrying and loving and patient, so freaking patient. When the drama goes down I have to admit that while I saw why Cass was mad, I would have been too, I couldn't help but side with Drew. I just wanted to shake Cass and hope some common sense clicked into place.
Ms. Rapp shows us that life is bigger than us and somethings in life are left to fate.
BEING THERE was a breath of fresh air and took me for a ride. Scenes were beautifully constructed and had me holding my breath and holding back tears. I was happy, sad, concerned, fearful, hopeful and elated all within this well written story. I found myself believing in fate, more than just a concept but as a reality. BEING THERE will reach deep inside and take hold of you.
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