What do you think?
Rate this book
Can't Love You More:
Braelyn and Aiden have been best friends since they were eight years old. The two of them had a special bond that only grew deeper the older they became. The love that was once considered one of a kind was shattered graduation night, resulting in Braelyn leaving her small hometown for the big city. She now has a secret of her own to shield. A year in Chicago altered her life more than she ever thought imaginable. Braelyn moves back to Indiana in desperation to find the happy, free-spirited girl she left behind, but she isn't sure that is possible. Braelyn’s new downstairs neighbor, Gabe, is quickly becoming her new best friend. Though jaded from his own past back in Georgia, he is on a mission to help her out of the deep depression that has consumed her over the past year. Can Gabe help Braelyn find herself? Will Aiden's confession change the past, or will it ruin her forever?
233 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2014
30 people are currently reading
414 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Quinn
4 books29 followersSabrina is a small-town Indiana girl with a passion for storytelling. She's chasing her author dreams while raising four incredible children as a single mom. She's a coffee addict who loves sappy love stories, a bookworm, huge music junkie, fashion aficionado, wine enthusiast, action movie-lover and an avid sports fan.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 3, 2015
3.5 Stars
Review by Natasha Gentile
Oh this book this book this book. It had all the makings of a great story, but to me it fell a little flat. I had a hard time connected with the heroine Braelyn.
Braelyn Withers has been best friends with Aiden McCluen since she was just eight years old. The two of them had a special bond that only grew deeper the older they got. Their love was one of a kind, no one could deny that.
So this is your typical teenage love, except Aiden messes us big time, hurting her and pushing her away from her family and friends. Knowing that she can’t face Aiden any more, she decides that she needs to leave her small town and start out fresh.
After a year of getting her feet wet and becoming an independent person, she returns home, except she isn’t the same girl anymore. No one back home recognizes the girl the person she has become.
Gabe Murphy temporarily moved to Indiana in the hope to right the wrongs from his past in Georgia. He no longer believes in love and had no desire to ever find it. All of that changed the moment those sad, icy blue eyes that belonged to the girl who lived above his new apartment met his. He was instantly drawn to her.
So now she has to decide will she go with Aiden, the boy who completely shattered her or will she start over once again and grab on to Gabe?
I understand that the characters were young adults and they are in college and while it may be totally normal to go to parties and get wasted, I just expected after everything that the heroine had gone through, she would be a little more mature about her choices.
I believe there is will be a sequel and I have to admit, I will read it to find out which guy she chooses.
Review by Natasha Gentile
Oh this book this book this book. It had all the makings of a great story, but to me it fell a little flat. I had a hard time connected with the heroine Braelyn.
Braelyn Withers has been best friends with Aiden McCluen since she was just eight years old. The two of them had a special bond that only grew deeper the older they got. Their love was one of a kind, no one could deny that.
So this is your typical teenage love, except Aiden messes us big time, hurting her and pushing her away from her family and friends. Knowing that she can’t face Aiden any more, she decides that she needs to leave her small town and start out fresh.
After a year of getting her feet wet and becoming an independent person, she returns home, except she isn’t the same girl anymore. No one back home recognizes the girl the person she has become.
Gabe Murphy temporarily moved to Indiana in the hope to right the wrongs from his past in Georgia. He no longer believes in love and had no desire to ever find it. All of that changed the moment those sad, icy blue eyes that belonged to the girl who lived above his new apartment met his. He was instantly drawn to her.
So now she has to decide will she go with Aiden, the boy who completely shattered her or will she start over once again and grab on to Gabe?
I understand that the characters were young adults and they are in college and while it may be totally normal to go to parties and get wasted, I just expected after everything that the heroine had gone through, she would be a little more mature about her choices.
I believe there is will be a sequel and I have to admit, I will read it to find out which guy she chooses.
March 8, 2015
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Quinn’s debut novel is one that Gone Readin’ happily recommends to those who love a tragic love story. The story behind the relationships Braelyn has with both Aiden and Gabe develops through a few surprises that will bubble up a few stray tears and tug on your heartstrings. It is gripping and heart breaking and it definitely offers enough angst for one love story. However, Can’t Love You More starts off a bit slow, and I found it difficult to engage for the first few chapters. But once invested in the characters and story, I finished the last two-thirds of the book in one sitting.
The characters are developed well, and I found myself rooting for everyone’s happiness. I love secondary characters because they breathe life into the principal parts, but there were A LOT of them. At times, names were dropped and I couldn't remember who they were. I also liked that the story moved through dialogue. There wasn't a ton of internal monologues, and the characters interacted at a perfect pace. The storyline is a fairly typical "young love" tale. For those looking for a novel in this genre minus the sex – you have a good option here. I think the author’s goal was to really develop a story based on the growing feelings the characters were discovering about themselves as well as each other. The plot is well thought out and a bit deceiving. All the relationships are pretty unique. Most romance books are saturated with so much sex, that it is hard to comprehend how the characters can function without that element, but that is nowhere to be found in this novel. My favorite part of this book was the shift in time and POV. Several chapters shift from the past to present day, to a few months earlier, or to a completely different POV. That's what gave life to these characters - seeing them interact at different moments in their lives, and hearing another's POV. Finally, there is some evidence that Quinn is a first-time published author, but nothing a great editor couldn’t correct.
Overall, I loved the premise of this book. Unfortunately the execution fell a bit flat. I liked the story and characters but felt the first few chapters didn’t suck me in, giving me that moment of “I can’t put this book down.” I need a visceral reaction to the characters - love them, hate them, even indifference. The bottom line – I have to react. I had a tough time doing that in this book. I wanted to hate Aiden, but couldn't, and I just never fell in love with Braelyn. It’s a pleasant story and I’m more than curious how Quinn will tie up all the loose ends in her next book. Although not a cliffhanger – we are definitely left with a few questions! Sabrina Quinn’s debut novel, Can’t Love You More is a solid 4 star read – and I anxiously await the next installment.
Quinn’s debut novel is one that Gone Readin’ happily recommends to those who love a tragic love story. The story behind the relationships Braelyn has with both Aiden and Gabe develops through a few surprises that will bubble up a few stray tears and tug on your heartstrings. It is gripping and heart breaking and it definitely offers enough angst for one love story. However, Can’t Love You More starts off a bit slow, and I found it difficult to engage for the first few chapters. But once invested in the characters and story, I finished the last two-thirds of the book in one sitting.
The characters are developed well, and I found myself rooting for everyone’s happiness. I love secondary characters because they breathe life into the principal parts, but there were A LOT of them. At times, names were dropped and I couldn't remember who they were. I also liked that the story moved through dialogue. There wasn't a ton of internal monologues, and the characters interacted at a perfect pace. The storyline is a fairly typical "young love" tale. For those looking for a novel in this genre minus the sex – you have a good option here. I think the author’s goal was to really develop a story based on the growing feelings the characters were discovering about themselves as well as each other. The plot is well thought out and a bit deceiving. All the relationships are pretty unique. Most romance books are saturated with so much sex, that it is hard to comprehend how the characters can function without that element, but that is nowhere to be found in this novel. My favorite part of this book was the shift in time and POV. Several chapters shift from the past to present day, to a few months earlier, or to a completely different POV. That's what gave life to these characters - seeing them interact at different moments in their lives, and hearing another's POV. Finally, there is some evidence that Quinn is a first-time published author, but nothing a great editor couldn’t correct.
Overall, I loved the premise of this book. Unfortunately the execution fell a bit flat. I liked the story and characters but felt the first few chapters didn’t suck me in, giving me that moment of “I can’t put this book down.” I need a visceral reaction to the characters - love them, hate them, even indifference. The bottom line – I have to react. I had a tough time doing that in this book. I wanted to hate Aiden, but couldn't, and I just never fell in love with Braelyn. It’s a pleasant story and I’m more than curious how Quinn will tie up all the loose ends in her next book. Although not a cliffhanger – we are definitely left with a few questions! Sabrina Quinn’s debut novel, Can’t Love You More is a solid 4 star read – and I anxiously await the next installment.
January 28, 2015
This was a quick read - between 1-2 hours. I was able to finish it on the plane. It read like a expanded diary, in the middle of a specific timeframe. I was hooked and wanted to know the outcome. Definitely didn't end they way I anticipated. Very interesting hook.
NOTE: possible violence triggers for those who have had experienced or have PTSD.
NOTE: possible violence triggers for those who have had experienced or have PTSD.
December 8, 2014
LOVED this book! I fell in love with characters early on and it pulled me right in. I am really hoping a part 2 is in the works. I look forward to more books from this author.
December 30, 2014
Great book. The book took a few pages to capture my attention but once it got me I was hooked. A true page turner. I found myself rushing through the climaxes to hurry up and figure out what happens. From goosebumps to tears to happy smiles this book had my emotions going all over the place and I loved it.
December 13, 2014
Book 1in a series, Sabrina?
I sure hope so! I found myself wanting to read more about Braelyn and Gable. And I'm certain Aiden has more to experience as well. Looking forward to many more books by Sabrina Quinn.
I sure hope so! I found myself wanting to read more about Braelyn and Gable. And I'm certain Aiden has more to experience as well. Looking forward to many more books by Sabrina Quinn.
February 8, 2015
This book was a good one. Simple, cleanish- adult things happened but without the gory details. It was a great quick read! Good job Sabrina! I hope there is another. It was like watching a Christmas love story without the Christmas part.
December 9, 2017
I loved this book. Loved the characters. I definitely shed a few tears and felt Braelyn's heartbreak. I feel like there should be a second book and could definitely turn into a series.
October 18, 2017
Needs editor!
Enjoyed this book. Fairly predictable though. It had so many errors in grammar, spelling, and word usage that it made it difficult at times. I would have to reread sentences to figure out what they were supposed to say. In serious need of a proofreader/editor.
Enjoyed this book. Fairly predictable though. It had so many errors in grammar, spelling, and word usage that it made it difficult at times. I would have to reread sentences to figure out what they were supposed to say. In serious need of a proofreader/editor.
January 24, 2020
I won a copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.
June 21, 2022
I struggled a bit to like Braelynn, probably mostly due to her immaturity, although it’s to be expected. That being said I loved both Aiden and Gable. I am looking forward to seeing where this goes from here.
September 1, 2017
Excellent
The characters were very well developed. There were some real surprises along the way. I am so happy that there was finally a HEA.
The characters were very well developed. There were some real surprises along the way. I am so happy that there was finally a HEA.
August 19, 2020
After all , she make best choice for herself.
January 10, 2015
3.5 Stars
Review by Natasha Gentile
Oh this book this book this book. It had all the makings of a great story, but to me it fell a little flat. I had a hard time connected with the heroine Braelyn.
Braelyn Withers has been best friends with Aiden McCluen since she was just eight years old. The two of them had a special bond that only grew deeper the older they got. Their love was one of a kind, no one could deny that.
So this is your typical teenage love, except Aiden messes us big time, hurting her and pushing her away from her family and friends. Knowing that she can’t face Aiden any more, she decides that she needs to leave her small town and start out fresh.
After a year of getting her feet wet and becoming an independent person, she returns home, except she isn’t the same girl anymore. No one back home recognizes the girl the person she has become.
Gabe Murphy temporarily moved to Indiana in the hope to right the wrongs from his past in Georgia. He no longer believes in love and had no desire to ever find it. All of that changed the moment those sad, icy blue eyes that belonged to the girl who lived above his new apartment met his. He was instantly drawn to her.
So now she has to decide will she go with Aiden, the boy who completely shattered her or will she start over once again and grab on to Gabe?
I understand that the characters were young adults and they are in college and while it may be totally normal to go to parties and get wasted, I just expected after everything that the heroine had gone through, she would be a little more mature about her choices.
I believe there is will be a sequel and I have to admit, I will read it to find out which guy she chooses.
Review by Natasha Gentile
Oh this book this book this book. It had all the makings of a great story, but to me it fell a little flat. I had a hard time connected with the heroine Braelyn.
Braelyn Withers has been best friends with Aiden McCluen since she was just eight years old. The two of them had a special bond that only grew deeper the older they got. Their love was one of a kind, no one could deny that.
So this is your typical teenage love, except Aiden messes us big time, hurting her and pushing her away from her family and friends. Knowing that she can’t face Aiden any more, she decides that she needs to leave her small town and start out fresh.
After a year of getting her feet wet and becoming an independent person, she returns home, except she isn’t the same girl anymore. No one back home recognizes the girl the person she has become.
Gabe Murphy temporarily moved to Indiana in the hope to right the wrongs from his past in Georgia. He no longer believes in love and had no desire to ever find it. All of that changed the moment those sad, icy blue eyes that belonged to the girl who lived above his new apartment met his. He was instantly drawn to her.
So now she has to decide will she go with Aiden, the boy who completely shattered her or will she start over once again and grab on to Gabe?
I understand that the characters were young adults and they are in college and while it may be totally normal to go to parties and get wasted, I just expected after everything that the heroine had gone through, she would be a little more mature about her choices.
I believe there is will be a sequel and I have to admit, I will read it to find out which guy she chooses.
May 27, 2015
I absolutely loved the characters in this story, the purity & how clean it was. NA contemporary is a genre worth reading, especially this book! After "B's" moms death when she was 11yrs old, it turned her world upside down, but luckily she had Aiden. Now 8years later, Braelyn leaves her small hometown of Indiana to escape her bestfriend/first love Aiden after a mistake that cost them their friendship & relationship, she heads to Chicago with a secret of her own. After returning back home a year later with more hear attack than when she left, she's hoping to find the girl she use to be. What she ends up finding is something more, Gable "Gabe". I love watching their friendship grow, as they run in the mornings together. I love the honesty her bestfriend Kelci gives her, when she can't accept it. Sometimes that's all a girl needs, is a friend like that. A love lost, a love gained its about being honest with your heart and your feelings. Her family (dad & 3 brothers) help Brae see she needs to live her life and dream.
June 2, 2015
This is such a great story!!
I started reading this book while in the midst of a book hangover. Can’t Love You More, got me over that hangover and gave me a new one!
There were so many different levels of heartache in this story!
I loved watching Braelyn and Aiden as they grew up and fell in love. I loved them as a couple and was unsure what to think when Braelyn starting hanging out with her new neighbor. As we got to know the neighbor, I was as torn as Braelyn as Gabe and Aiden were both really great guys.
As the story goes on, we get more insight as to why Braelyn is so guarded. Her story is heartbreaking and brings more depth into the story and the love triangle we see beginning to grow.
There is also a twist in the story that left my heart pounding. I found myself racing through the book as tears began to form in my eyes waiting to see what was going on.
I couldn’t put this book down from the moment I picked it up. Even a few days after finishing this book, I am still thinking about the characters and the story.
June 13, 2015
This author lives in my town, and I loved all the Indiana references. Aside from that though, I just genuinely enjoyed the story and humor. The main character felt like my best friend and I found myself rooting not only for her, but for every character, as they were all extremely likable and relatable. It also touched me by handling some difficult subjects with grace and sensitivity. Read it in a day. Loved it.
November 16, 2014
I loved this book! I felt like I was really there with the characters and I was on a total emotional roller coaster with them' Awesome job for a first book from this upcoming author. Can't wait to read what she does next!
December 28, 2014
I instantly fell in love with this books. many times it takes a couple of chapters but the author did a great job drawing you into the book quickly but not giving the whole story away. I hoping for a second book soon!
February 15, 2015
I loved this book and read it cover to cover today in a few hours. The story was beautifully told and I like when I can't figure out the ending until I get there. I can't wait to read more from this author.
November 12, 2015
I liked this book a lot. I loved the love story it encompassed. I saw it ending in a different way and to me the ending left out so much. I wished it would have ended better. Not sure if she intends on writing another chapter in this story but would definitely read it.
November 13, 2014
Congrats Sabrina! Great read!!!
January 20, 2015
This book kept me guessing the whole way through. I did not predict the ending and I like that about a book.
January 4, 2015
Urgggggg...I need a follow-up...STAT! There are so many stories waiting to be told in this book. It will hopefully become a great series! Please?
January 19, 2015
It feels like i am missing part of the story. Wished there was more.
January 23, 2015
Wasn't my favorite
I liked it for what it's worth but it wasn't my favorite. I don't like who she ends up with. I was team Aiden.
I liked it for what it's worth but it wasn't my favorite. I don't like who she ends up with. I was team Aiden.
February 1, 2015
2.75 - 3 stars
February 3, 2015
great book
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews