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Barley Cross #1
Being Brooke
My name is Brooke Barker...
And I'm a freaking disaster.
No, seriously. I’m a college drop-out working a dead-end job, my best friend Carly’s dog gets more action than I do, and I have more bad dates in my diary than there are movie remakes.
Not to mention I'm completely and utterly in love with Cain Elliott.
The problem? He’s in a relationship. With a girl who’s so plastic she makes Barbie cry herself to sleep with jealousy.
The second problem? He's my best friend.
My shut-up-and-put-on-Harry-Potter, yes-this-is-your-shirt, help-I-have-no-power, crap-I’m-out-of-tampons, kinda best friend.
And that’s all he can be, right?
Right.
(Being Brooke is a standalone romantic comedy. Hilarious, super-sexy, and possibly highly inappropriate at times, this is the perfect feel-good read!)
And I'm a freaking disaster.
No, seriously. I’m a college drop-out working a dead-end job, my best friend Carly’s dog gets more action than I do, and I have more bad dates in my diary than there are movie remakes.
Not to mention I'm completely and utterly in love with Cain Elliott.
The problem? He’s in a relationship. With a girl who’s so plastic she makes Barbie cry herself to sleep with jealousy.
The second problem? He's my best friend.
My shut-up-and-put-on-Harry-Potter, yes-this-is-your-shirt, help-I-have-no-power, crap-I’m-out-of-tampons, kinda best friend.
And that’s all he can be, right?
Right.
(Being Brooke is a standalone romantic comedy. Hilarious, super-sexy, and possibly highly inappropriate at times, this is the perfect feel-good read!)
288 pages, ebook
First published December 13, 2016
1442 people are currently reading
4663 people want to read
About the author
Emma Hart
129 books7,564 followersEmma Hart is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels and has been translated into several different languages. She first put fingers to keys at the age of eighteen after her husband told her she read too much and should write her own.
Four years later, she's still figuring out what he meant when he said she 'read too much.'
She prides herself on writing smart smut that's filled with dry wit, snappy, sarcastic comebacks, but lots of heart... And sex. Sometimes, she kills people. (Disclaimer: In books. But if you bug her, she'll use your name for the victims.)
You can find her online at www.emmahart.org, www.facebook.com/emmahartbooks, or join her reader group at http://bit.ly/EmmaHartsHartbreakers.
Four years later, she's still figuring out what he meant when he said she 'read too much.'
She prides herself on writing smart smut that's filled with dry wit, snappy, sarcastic comebacks, but lots of heart... And sex. Sometimes, she kills people. (Disclaimer: In books. But if you bug her, she'll use your name for the victims.)
You can find her online at www.emmahart.org, www.facebook.com/emmahartbooks, or join her reader group at http://bit.ly/EmmaHartsHartbreakers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 805 reviews
December 15, 2016
2 to 3 Stars
Restraint isn't a skill I've ever learned— unless you count the fact I've made it just over twenty-four years and haven't been arrested for murder. With my temperament, that's worth celebrating.
I hear ya, girl!
When I first started Being Brooke, it wouldn’t be an overstatement to say I was pumped!
Brooke hooked me right away with her snarky banter and the fun relationship between her and her besties, including her unrequited crush, Cain.
As the story rolled on, we get more and more of Brooke being her cute, funny, hot mess self. Oh Brooke!
As Brooke continued to be Brooke with not much else happening, I found myself mildly entertained but I have to tell you, Ms. Brooke’s luster was fading fast.
Maybe I went into this with the wrong frame of mind, but I’ve read and enjoyed Emma Hart books in the past so I was definitely expecting some heat. Or some smolder. Or SOMETHING to let me know there’s some actual physical attraction between Brooke and Cain. I mean seriously, she’s supposedly been in love with him for years and when he finally opens his eyes and realizes his BFF is a hot bit of lady, I expected fireworks. Instead, the sexiest bit of action comes from an awkward wake up scene and some morning wood.
Do I need sexy times in all of my reads? No, but there just wasn’t enough funny or actual story to carry this book without it. Call me a huge literary slut, but this story needs the intimacy a heavy petting on up chapter would've provided.
Restraint isn't a skill I've ever learned— unless you count the fact I've made it just over twenty-four years and haven't been arrested for murder. With my temperament, that's worth celebrating.
I hear ya, girl!
When I first started Being Brooke, it wouldn’t be an overstatement to say I was pumped!
Brooke hooked me right away with her snarky banter and the fun relationship between her and her besties, including her unrequited crush, Cain.
As the story rolled on, we get more and more of Brooke being her cute, funny, hot mess self. Oh Brooke!
As Brooke continued to be Brooke with not much else happening, I found myself mildly entertained but I have to tell you, Ms. Brooke’s luster was fading fast.
Maybe I went into this with the wrong frame of mind, but I’ve read and enjoyed Emma Hart books in the past so I was definitely expecting some heat. Or some smolder. Or SOMETHING to let me know there’s some actual physical attraction between Brooke and Cain. I mean seriously, she’s supposedly been in love with him for years and when he finally opens his eyes and realizes his BFF is a hot bit of lady, I expected fireworks. Instead, the sexiest bit of action comes from an awkward wake up scene and some morning wood.
Do I need sexy times in all of my reads? No, but there just wasn’t enough funny or actual story to carry this book without it. Call me a huge literary slut, but this story needs the intimacy a heavy petting on up chapter would've provided.
December 29, 2016
LIFE TIP #1: Photoshopping yourself next to hunky celebrities is NOT weird.
Oh well, I thought I was the only one, the sole inhabitant of planet Obsessed-And-Slightly-Creepy-Fangirl, but then Brooke came and admitted doing the exact same thing with Ian Somerhalder. Guess what, I did too! And Orlando Bloom. And Wentworth Miller. And Henry Cavill. And Brad Pitt. Not weird at all, right?
LIFE TIP #2: When you're working 10 hours straight, and your social life is even more nonexistent than the one of your glorious wear-your-pajamas-eat-chocolate-and-read days, a rom-com can be surprisingly uplifting.
Because honestly, you can relate to Brooke. Was she a little overwhelming at times? Sure. Did she drown in insecurities and fear? Absolutely? Did she act like a responsible adult? Hell no. But she put a smile on your face nonetheless. With her sarcasm, bitchy attitude and precious comments, her junk food addiction and Harry Potter marathons, she made you giggle and forget that the last time you stayed out late with friends was on February 14, 2015, and you nearly slept on the couch when everyone around you kept dancing.
LIFE TIP #3: The fall-for-your-best-friend-trope is the sweetest.
I haven't explored it that much, but I thoroughly enjoyed Brooke and Cain's relationship. It was heart-warming, sweet and utterly hilarious! They knew each other so well, their best and worst traits, and their connection ran deep and true. Add some smoking tension, an awkward morning with raging hard-ons and some kisses to melt you into a puddle of goo and voila! your smile gets even brighter and your cheeks start hurting!
LIFE TIP #4: An overdose of llama-drama is never appreciated.
Thankfully, Emma Hart shares the same opinion, so *drum-roll* there weren't unnecessary break-ups and angst and misunderstandings towards the end! You're a rock star, Emma!
LIFE TIP #5: We can all be Brookes.
Alright, not all of us have best friends with delicious six-packs and lust-inducing dimples and piercing eyes and a smile to kill for (in fact, does any of you have such friends? Can I meet them?), but in the end she conquered her fears, made her dreams come true and got the sexy guy. The only thing she needed was to be brave and try. So, I'm going to put on my fluffly pajamas and try to pull Cain out of this book. Seems like a solid plan.
P.S. In case it's not obvious, I totally watched The Princess and The Frog last night.
Oh well, I thought I was the only one, the sole inhabitant of planet Obsessed-And-Slightly-Creepy-Fangirl, but then Brooke came and admitted doing the exact same thing with Ian Somerhalder. Guess what, I did too! And Orlando Bloom. And Wentworth Miller. And Henry Cavill. And Brad Pitt. Not weird at all, right?
LIFE TIP #2: When you're working 10 hours straight, and your social life is even more nonexistent than the one of your glorious wear-your-pajamas-eat-chocolate-and-read days, a rom-com can be surprisingly uplifting.
Because honestly, you can relate to Brooke. Was she a little overwhelming at times? Sure. Did she drown in insecurities and fear? Absolutely? Did she act like a responsible adult? Hell no. But she put a smile on your face nonetheless. With her sarcasm, bitchy attitude and precious comments, her junk food addiction and Harry Potter marathons, she made you giggle and forget that the last time you stayed out late with friends was on February 14, 2015, and you nearly slept on the couch when everyone around you kept dancing.
LIFE TIP #3: The fall-for-your-best-friend-trope is the sweetest.
I haven't explored it that much, but I thoroughly enjoyed Brooke and Cain's relationship. It was heart-warming, sweet and utterly hilarious! They knew each other so well, their best and worst traits, and their connection ran deep and true. Add some smoking tension, an awkward morning with raging hard-ons and some kisses to melt you into a puddle of goo and voila! your smile gets even brighter and your cheeks start hurting!
LIFE TIP #4: An overdose of llama-drama is never appreciated.
Thankfully, Emma Hart shares the same opinion, so *drum-roll* there weren't unnecessary break-ups and angst and misunderstandings towards the end! You're a rock star, Emma!
LIFE TIP #5: We can all be Brookes.
Alright, not all of us have best friends with delicious six-packs and lust-inducing dimples and piercing eyes and a smile to kill for (in fact, does any of you have such friends? Can I meet them?), but in the end she conquered her fears, made her dreams come true and got the sexy guy. The only thing she needed was to be brave and try. So, I'm going to put on my fluffly pajamas and try to pull Cain out of this book. Seems like a solid plan.
P.S. In case it's not obvious, I totally watched The Princess and The Frog last night.
July 31, 2017
2 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think the overall premise of the book was a good one, but it didn't quite meet its potential for me. There were a few things that simply didn't work for me here. First, there was the constant putting down of the h. Can you say self-fulfilling prophecy anyone? Sorry, that's my psych major popping out. Everyone in the story (including the h) calls the h a mess (12 times), hot mess (14 times), klutz (3 times), disaster (8 times), etc. so much that I can't see how she can succeed with that type of environment! And don't even get me started on the word "awkward "!! 78 TIMES! Is it really necessary to have the same word repeated that many times?!? I didn't feel their connection, we get no steam, the h started to grate on my nerves, the whole baking thing wasn't believable after all the other stuff we went though, and I honestly feel awkward that I didn't put this on my dnf shelf!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Brooke and Cain's story. They've been best friends for almost 10 years. Brooke is in a hard situation with being in love with Cain. Cain is with another woman, and Brooke and their other best friend hates her. This other woman is trying to come between their friendship also, and this causes some drama between them. Some big reveals are made, and they end up exposing their love for each other...and get a HFN ending.
POV: This was told in Brooke's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not so great. I did find myself bored at times and skimmed some during what I thought were slow parts, but not so much that I felt like I missed big parts of the story.
Instalove: No, they've known each other for years. Feelings were already developed when the story starts though.
H rating: 3 stars. Cain. He was ok...yep that's about all I can say about him! Didn't love him and didn't hate him either, just meh *shrugs*.
h rating: 2.5 stars. Brooke. She was an odd one that was for sure. She was a klutz, she was awkward, and I guess she had an amazing talent to bake (while she messed up boiling water and cooking pasta -- how that works I don't know). At first I found her quirkiness fun, but after a while it just got on my nerves.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed.
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Low. Some tension but not much, and other than that there was no heat.
Descriptive sex: No. I wouldn't even call it fade to black. It was just implied more than anything.
Safe sex: N/A
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No, once they get together they are together.
Possible Triggers: Mild
Closure: This had a jump ahead epilogue with some closure, but not nearly enough for me. I would call it a HFN ending as they only share their "I love yous" for the first time in it.
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: I'd call this one Safe for most readers
Overall Opinion: I think the overall premise of the book was a good one, but it didn't quite meet its potential for me. There were a few things that simply didn't work for me here. First, there was the constant putting down of the h. Can you say self-fulfilling prophecy anyone? Sorry, that's my psych major popping out. Everyone in the story (including the h) calls the h a mess (12 times), hot mess (14 times), klutz (3 times), disaster (8 times), etc. so much that I can't see how she can succeed with that type of environment! And don't even get me started on the word "awkward "!! 78 TIMES! Is it really necessary to have the same word repeated that many times?!? I didn't feel their connection, we get no steam, the h started to grate on my nerves, the whole baking thing wasn't believable after all the other stuff we went though, and I honestly feel awkward that I didn't put this on my dnf shelf!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Brooke and Cain's story. They've been best friends for almost 10 years. Brooke is in a hard situation with being in love with Cain. Cain is with another woman, and Brooke and their other best friend hates her. This other woman is trying to come between their friendship also, and this causes some drama between them. Some big reveals are made, and they end up exposing their love for each other...and get a HFN ending.
POV: This was told in Brooke's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not so great. I did find myself bored at times and skimmed some during what I thought were slow parts, but not so much that I felt like I missed big parts of the story.
Instalove: No, they've known each other for years. Feelings were already developed when the story starts though.
H rating: 3 stars. Cain. He was ok...yep that's about all I can say about him! Didn't love him and didn't hate him either, just meh *shrugs*.
h rating: 2.5 stars. Brooke. She was an odd one that was for sure. She was a klutz, she was awkward, and I guess she had an amazing talent to bake (while she messed up boiling water and cooking pasta -- how that works I don't know). At first I found her quirkiness fun, but after a while it just got on my nerves.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed.
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Low. Some tension but not much, and other than that there was no heat.
Descriptive sex: No. I wouldn't even call it fade to black. It was just implied more than anything.
Safe sex: N/A
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No, once they get together they are together.
Possible Triggers: Mild
Closure: This had a jump ahead epilogue with some closure, but not nearly enough for me. I would call it a HFN ending as they only share their "I love yous" for the first time in it.
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: I'd call this one Safe for most readers
December 7, 2016
*ARC provided by InkSlingerPR in exchange for an honest review*
Hilarious and Brilliant
I couldn't get enough of this book it was so funny. Brookes character is so funny I luvd her from the start. Her life is a lil crazy she just moved into her own apartment. Basically she needed to get away from her mum. Her mum is a lil crazy and luvs things to be perfect. Brooke is far from perfect she is a hotmess that's what her best friend Cain calls her anyway. Brookes is a lil clumsy asnt had a relationship in ages but this is cause she us in luv with her best friend Cain. She doesn't think he see her that way. So she never did anything about it. She just got heartbroken every time he got a new girlfriend. This would annoy there other best friend Carly. Brooke would rather have him as her best friend than tell him how much she luvs him. There relationship is to important to her. Even though everyone knows how's she feels.
Cain is very sexy and he as a great personality. He as great banter with the girls. But you can see that his relationship with Brooke his stronger. They are just brilliant together and I was dyin for them to get together. There sexual tension was crazy from the start it was so hot. Even with them arguing about things al the time it was still there.
I luvd everything about this book. The story was so funny in parts I was laughing to myself. As u can tell I was a huge fan of Brooke straight away. I really enjoyed Cain as well but it wasn't hard he is just so sexy. I actually really liked al the characters. I know this is a standalone but I d really like Emma to do a book for Carly and Zeke there is something there and I want more of it please.
I would highly recommend this book is has everything in it. It was great from start to finish. I couldn't put it down once I started.
Hilarious and Brilliant
I couldn't get enough of this book it was so funny. Brookes character is so funny I luvd her from the start. Her life is a lil crazy she just moved into her own apartment. Basically she needed to get away from her mum. Her mum is a lil crazy and luvs things to be perfect. Brooke is far from perfect she is a hotmess that's what her best friend Cain calls her anyway. Brookes is a lil clumsy asnt had a relationship in ages but this is cause she us in luv with her best friend Cain. She doesn't think he see her that way. So she never did anything about it. She just got heartbroken every time he got a new girlfriend. This would annoy there other best friend Carly. Brooke would rather have him as her best friend than tell him how much she luvs him. There relationship is to important to her. Even though everyone knows how's she feels.
Cain is very sexy and he as a great personality. He as great banter with the girls. But you can see that his relationship with Brooke his stronger. They are just brilliant together and I was dyin for them to get together. There sexual tension was crazy from the start it was so hot. Even with them arguing about things al the time it was still there.
I luvd everything about this book. The story was so funny in parts I was laughing to myself. As u can tell I was a huge fan of Brooke straight away. I really enjoyed Cain as well but it wasn't hard he is just so sexy. I actually really liked al the characters. I know this is a standalone but I d really like Emma to do a book for Carly and Zeke there is something there and I want more of it please.
I would highly recommend this book is has everything in it. It was great from start to finish. I couldn't put it down once I started.
December 16, 2016
Buy it here: Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK |
Review
LIFE TIP #18: Be honest. Always. Sometimes the reactions are surprising. Unless you killed your sister’s cat. Don’t be honest about that.
Friends to lovers has always, always been a trope I struggle with. Whether I don't find the progression believable or feel that it's forced, don't buy the connection, the history, I could go on. It either really works for me or it really doesn't and Being Brooke is definitely the former! This was such a cute and fun read, I loved the relationship between Brooke and Cain even at the beginning. It was flawless and portrayed exactly how I feel it should be for these characters. You're given enough background to make the feelings believable but enough current interactions to really push the idea forward.
"I don’t speak grumpy. I speak fluent sarcasm, bitch, and PMS.”
This is so me its a little scary.
Disregarding the fact that I'm not a complete klutz and at least possess my adult card, Brooke and I are the same person. She's my spirit guide and I loved reading about her life. Seeing this all pan out was an absolute treat and I couldn't stop laughing at how ridiculous she was.
I'm twenty-four, it's a Friday night, and I'm waiting in for a take-out gyros and fries in my onesie.
My life is just so exciting I can barely stand it.
There's something to be said about a guy like Cain. Sure, you've got the basics of a hero: tall, athletic, GQ, sweet, funny, thoughtful, the list goes on. But my favourite part is when these characters can get embarrassed, shy or unsure. I find that so completely endearing! I don't always need a cocky or alpha type guy. I want to feel that this is genuine and Emma Hart delivers just that.
One word to describe the banter: WIN. This book is filled with a lot of win, let's be honest here, but banter is one of my favourite aspects of a book ever! Banter or angst, those are my two downfalls. Brooke was quick witted and saucy while Cain had no problem dishing everything back to her. These two will definitely keep you on your toes. But more than the banter, these two had some really adorable 'awwww' moments too. I really liked how the author could balance both the fun and adorable to make it more genuine.
“Brooke? Shut up and eat.”
I roll my eyes. “Lord, that’s romantic. Excuse me while I swoon all over the place.”
This is definitely the type of book that can be a favourite in the RomCom genre, easily. Brooke is hilarious. Granted, sometimes over the top but I like to think that Cain and Carly help to tone her down a bit. This girl I tell you, she has no filter at all.
I'll be honest, I was kind of expecting some more depth in this book. Yes, I knew going in that it was a RomCom but I still expected more than what we would get a thicker plot, some grittier scenes, especially maybe in relation to the confusion and 'what are we doing' type scenes. Brooke had a few where she would start to freak out and just when I would think something might happen, the storm passed. It just felt maybe a little superficial.
In the name of honesty, I need to forewarn my fellow readers on the low level of heat. Kind of like when you have a pot simmering on the stove but can't let it boil. It's the underlying warmth, but it doesn't break the surface.
You’re chaos, Brooke Barker. Luckily for you, I happen to love chaos.”
Overall this is ultimately an enjoyable read to put smile on your face and keep you laughing. It's so freaking cute that it made my cheeks hurt. There's no knowing what this group of friends will get up to (and be sure to keep an eye on grandpa!) so make sure you're ready for a good laugh when you pick this one up. This is the second book by Emma that I've read this year and I'd definitely recommend her as an author! I've adored both Being Brooke and Dirty Little Rendezvous.
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2016
One thing I've come to love about Emma Hart's books is how lively and delightful her female characters are. Although they can be overdramatic at times, you can't help but adore them and cheer them on.
This book was about Brooke. She was a HOT MESS!! Seriously. Everyone who loves her has said so and even she knows it's true. The heart of the story was that Brooke was in love with her best friend, Cain. The only problem was that they've been besties for 10 years and she didn't want to ruin their friendship. Thoughts of ruination ran rampant through her mind, worst case scenarios played in her thoughts, and she was terrified of making a move or even admitting to her affection. So for years she watched him date and become involved with women who weren't her. Her own silence was breaking her heart. One day Cain broke up with his current love interest and finally made a move of his own on Brook that definitely wouldn't be called "friendly". Can Brooke, a woman who struggles on a daily basis with "adulting", who hasn't really had a real relationship, and who is desperately afraid of killing what they have, finally get out of her own way?
This author is brilliant at writing RomCom and many will find it difficult not to fall in love with Brooke and Cain, not to mention all of the side characters. Their support network was incredible! I'm wondering if there will be a book about Carly and Zeke because I swear there is a story brewing there. This story was heartwarming, sweet and funny. No joke. The word awkward was mentioned 77 times!! Check it out!!
Release Date: December 13, 2016
Genre: Romantic Comedy
POV: Heroine - 1st person
Steam: 1
Series or Standalone: Standalone
This book was about Brooke. She was a HOT MESS!! Seriously. Everyone who loves her has said so and even she knows it's true. The heart of the story was that Brooke was in love with her best friend, Cain. The only problem was that they've been besties for 10 years and she didn't want to ruin their friendship. Thoughts of ruination ran rampant through her mind, worst case scenarios played in her thoughts, and she was terrified of making a move or even admitting to her affection. So for years she watched him date and become involved with women who weren't her. Her own silence was breaking her heart. One day Cain broke up with his current love interest and finally made a move of his own on Brook that definitely wouldn't be called "friendly". Can Brooke, a woman who struggles on a daily basis with "adulting", who hasn't really had a real relationship, and who is desperately afraid of killing what they have, finally get out of her own way?
This author is brilliant at writing RomCom and many will find it difficult not to fall in love with Brooke and Cain, not to mention all of the side characters. Their support network was incredible! I'm wondering if there will be a book about Carly and Zeke because I swear there is a story brewing there. This story was heartwarming, sweet and funny. No joke. The word awkward was mentioned 77 times!! Check it out!!
Release Date: December 13, 2016
Genre: Romantic Comedy
POV: Heroine - 1st person
Steam: 1
Series or Standalone: Standalone
dnf
July 19, 2019DNF 31%.
The writing was not working for me and I started skim-reading way too early on.
The writing was not working for me and I started skim-reading way too early on.
January 3, 2017
1.5 DISMAL STARS
Well, I've started 2017 with a whimper, lol. I'm a huge fan of friends to lovers, it's a fave trope of mine, but this was incredibly disappointing.
Brooke was the kind of heroine I can't stand: abrasive, loud and foul-mouthed, swears more than she breathes, silly, sarcastic and forgettable. I know this was meant to be funny, with all her snarky comments and over the top sarcasm, but I would never want to be friends with someone like this let alone read about it. No, really what does Cain see in her?? Maybe that's harsh, I don't know...sometimes she was just OK.
I felt there were a lot of filler chapters. Lots of casual scenes that seemed to make the book drag with their pointlessness. Chopping at least 30% of this book would have been better.
I know I'm being harsh, but this book didn't work for me and I contemplated DNF'ing it several times. I actually skimmed after 45%. It wasn't as emotional as it should have been when two best friends finally cross the line. There should be build up, tension, angst...SOMETHING. Even Brooke's best friend, Carly, was annoying. Gheesh.
If you're looking for a fantastic friends to lovers, Sincerely, Carter by Whitney G. is phenomenal, one of my most favourites. There are more but I can't be bothered to write any longer after reading this.
Well, I've started 2017 with a whimper, lol. I'm a huge fan of friends to lovers, it's a fave trope of mine, but this was incredibly disappointing.
Brooke was the kind of heroine I can't stand: abrasive, loud and foul-mouthed, swears more than she breathes, silly, sarcastic and forgettable. I know this was meant to be funny, with all her snarky comments and over the top sarcasm, but I would never want to be friends with someone like this let alone read about it. No, really what does Cain see in her?? Maybe that's harsh, I don't know...sometimes she was just OK.
I felt there were a lot of filler chapters. Lots of casual scenes that seemed to make the book drag with their pointlessness. Chopping at least 30% of this book would have been better.
I know I'm being harsh, but this book didn't work for me and I contemplated DNF'ing it several times. I actually skimmed after 45%. It wasn't as emotional as it should have been when two best friends finally cross the line. There should be build up, tension, angst...SOMETHING. Even Brooke's best friend, Carly, was annoying. Gheesh.
If you're looking for a fantastic friends to lovers, Sincerely, Carter by Whitney G. is phenomenal, one of my most favourites. There are more but I can't be bothered to write any longer after reading this.
December 16, 2016
That was a very fun and light romance which can be read as a nice pastime. If you like "Friends to Lovers" romances, this is a good one!
My Rating:
I will try to give an overall idea about this book.
1. Sweetness: Sugar overdose - 10 out of 5
Everything about this book is sweet... so so sweet!
2. Fun: Hilarious - 10 out of 5. So many laugh-out-loud moments!
3. Hotness: 0 out of 5.
No sex scenes, even your 12 year-old daughter can read this book! There are only a few dirty jokes told by the grandfather :))))
There is the mention of the possibility of sex, and the information of having done the deed somewhere towards the end but that’s all. Do not expect any hot scenes as there are none! Nope, nothing at all!
4. Angst Level: Only traces of it - 0,0001 out of 5.
The book has no angst whatsoever. It is as peaceful as a beautiful sunny day.
5. Characters: All of them are so cute that it is impossible not to fall in love with each of them. 5 out of 5
My Criticism:
What bothered me most is that all along the story, I felt as if I was reading a book about 16 year-olds although the hero and the heroine are both 24 years old. This is not only because of the lack of hot scenes, but also because of how they acted and maybe the immaturity of the main character, Brooke...
And despite its ultra-sweetness, it really feels as if the book is lacking something, maybe it is because of the lack of angst. Hence, my -1 point.
And the lack of steam is -0,5...
There, it is: 3,5 points... kind of four(ish) ...
Some quotes...
I hate unpacking anything. Even multipacks of panties. They just sit in my dresser until I’ve made it through every pair, and then the package stays there until it annoys me.
I’ll be an excellent wife one day.
***
I’d like a new life, please. I want to get off this one. It sucks. I want a refund.
***
"Just call ET and tell him I’m waiting for him right now.”
“You want me to phone home?”
“Yes. Clearly Earth is not my destined residence so call home and let them take me.”
***
“Shut your face. You don’t have to build anything.” I play with a loose thread on the cover. “I’m sure me and Carly can do it.”
He shudders, vibrating the bed. “No, fuck no. If you and Carly try to build a dresser, you’ll create a portal to another world or something. Or you’ll just break it and call me anyway.”
***
I’m not moving. I didn’t even know. Is that self-preservation? Yes. That’s it. When bitches bitch, stop walking. Fucking fantastic self-preservation.
***
“I lied.” He brings his other face to my hand and steps into me. “I didn’t imagine I’d end up with someone like you. A part of me imagined I would end up with you .”
***
"You’re chaos, Brooke Barker. Luckily for you, I happen to love chaos.”
My Rating:
I will try to give an overall idea about this book.
1. Sweetness: Sugar overdose - 10 out of 5
Everything about this book is sweet... so so sweet!
2. Fun: Hilarious - 10 out of 5. So many laugh-out-loud moments!
3. Hotness: 0 out of 5.
No sex scenes, even your 12 year-old daughter can read this book! There are only a few dirty jokes told by the grandfather :))))
There is the mention of the possibility of sex, and the information of having done the deed somewhere towards the end but that’s all. Do not expect any hot scenes as there are none! Nope, nothing at all!
4. Angst Level: Only traces of it - 0,0001 out of 5.
The book has no angst whatsoever. It is as peaceful as a beautiful sunny day.
5. Characters: All of them are so cute that it is impossible not to fall in love with each of them. 5 out of 5
My Criticism:
What bothered me most is that all along the story, I felt as if I was reading a book about 16 year-olds although the hero and the heroine are both 24 years old. This is not only because of the lack of hot scenes, but also because of how they acted and maybe the immaturity of the main character, Brooke...
And despite its ultra-sweetness, it really feels as if the book is lacking something, maybe it is because of the lack of angst. Hence, my -1 point.
And the lack of steam is -0,5...
There, it is: 3,5 points... kind of four(ish) ...
Some quotes...
I hate unpacking anything. Even multipacks of panties. They just sit in my dresser until I’ve made it through every pair, and then the package stays there until it annoys me.
I’ll be an excellent wife one day.
***
I’d like a new life, please. I want to get off this one. It sucks. I want a refund.
***
"Just call ET and tell him I’m waiting for him right now.”
“You want me to phone home?”
“Yes. Clearly Earth is not my destined residence so call home and let them take me.”
***
“Shut your face. You don’t have to build anything.” I play with a loose thread on the cover. “I’m sure me and Carly can do it.”
He shudders, vibrating the bed. “No, fuck no. If you and Carly try to build a dresser, you’ll create a portal to another world or something. Or you’ll just break it and call me anyway.”
***
I’m not moving. I didn’t even know. Is that self-preservation? Yes. That’s it. When bitches bitch, stop walking. Fucking fantastic self-preservation.
***
“I lied.” He brings his other face to my hand and steps into me. “I didn’t imagine I’d end up with someone like you. A part of me imagined I would end up with you .”
***
"You’re chaos, Brooke Barker. Luckily for you, I happen to love chaos.”
December 26, 2016
===♥
LIFE TIP #1: Don't fall for your best friend!
¬¬¬You think you have a shitty life? Your job is joke and you are broke?? And the love of your life seems happy with his would-be wife?? Your cooking sucks and your boss huffs?? What do you gotta do?? You gotta sympathize with our MC because she is all above with the shittiest name and the BFF of a lover. Plus she would rather be a mermaid than an adult!
Yep. This is Brooke Barker we are talking about!
===♥ LIFE TIP #2: Open your eyes wide and your mind wider, you douchebag!
¬¬¬Then we have Cain Elliot who is the most dense, most doltish, and the most imbecile love interest I've ever read. It seems that the whole town is aware of Brooke's crush on him. Yep. Everyone except her best friend of ten years.
===♥ LIFE TIP #3 :If people don't listen to your advice, unleash your dog on them!
¬¬¬Because it is a contemporary book, it can't be without a girl's best friend!! Can it be? If you don't agree tell me one contemporary book where the MC figures out her own love life without her best friend's help! Carly is the mutual friend of both MCs and acts as a buffer between them. She is sweet and an actually good advisor but damn if anyone listens to her!!
===♥ LIFE TIP #4: If you want to win your best friend, ask him for help 24/7 he will eventually fall for you!
¬¬¬So, the book starts with Brooke moving in her own apartment and trying to figure life on her own. TRYING being the keyword here. The biggest problem is she hates unpacking and she needs her best friend aka 'the lover' for every tiny pursuit!
'I'm twenty-four, it's a Friday night, and I'm waiting in for a take-out gyros and fries in my onesie.'~Brooke Barker
===♥ LIFE TIP #5: If you hate someone, be bitchy to them!
¬¬¬Even bigger problem is his bitchy possessive girlfriend, Nina, aka 'Miss Prissy Pants' who hates Brookes and the hatred our MC reciprocates with passion. Nina wants Cain to leave his BFF for his GF.
Will Cain Elliot aka 'the best friend' aka 'the lover' will ever come to his senses and see Miss Barker as more than a friend?? Will Brooke ever have a dream job? This is pretty much all the novel is about and I can't write more without giving anything anyway! But it was a quick fun-read!
¬¬¬You think you have a shitty life? Your job is joke and you are broke?? And the love of your life seems happy with his would-be wife?? Your cooking sucks and your boss huffs?? What do you gotta do?? You gotta sympathize with our MC because she is all above with the shittiest name and the BFF of a lover. Plus she would rather be a mermaid than an adult!
Yep. This is Brooke Barker we are talking about!
===♥ LIFE TIP #2: Open your eyes wide and your mind wider, you douchebag!
¬¬¬Then we have Cain Elliot who is the most dense, most doltish, and the most imbecile love interest I've ever read. It seems that the whole town is aware of Brooke's crush on him. Yep. Everyone except her best friend of ten years.
===♥ LIFE TIP #3 :If people don't listen to your advice, unleash your dog on them!
¬¬¬Because it is a contemporary book, it can't be without a girl's best friend!! Can it be? If you don't agree tell me one contemporary book where the MC figures out her own love life without her best friend's help! Carly is the mutual friend of both MCs and acts as a buffer between them. She is sweet and an actually good advisor but damn if anyone listens to her!!
===♥ LIFE TIP #4: If you want to win your best friend, ask him for help 24/7 he will eventually fall for you!
¬¬¬So, the book starts with Brooke moving in her own apartment and trying to figure life on her own. TRYING being the keyword here. The biggest problem is she hates unpacking and she needs her best friend aka 'the lover' for every tiny pursuit!
'I'm twenty-four, it's a Friday night, and I'm waiting in for a take-out gyros and fries in my onesie.'~Brooke Barker
===♥ LIFE TIP #5: If you hate someone, be bitchy to them!
¬¬¬Even bigger problem is his bitchy possessive girlfriend, Nina, aka 'Miss Prissy Pants' who hates Brookes and the hatred our MC reciprocates with passion. Nina wants Cain to leave his BFF for his GF.
Will Cain Elliot aka 'the best friend' aka 'the lover' will ever come to his senses and see Miss Barker as more than a friend?? Will Brooke ever have a dream job? This is pretty much all the novel is about and I can't write more without giving anything anyway! But it was a quick fun-read!
December 18, 2016
LOVED IT!!!
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT.
Cant write a proper review. Too sore from laughing out loud!
Awesome best friends-to-lovers rom-com.
5++++ STARS!!!
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT.
Cant write a proper review. Too sore from laughing out loud!
Awesome best friends-to-lovers rom-com.
5++++ STARS!!!
November 20, 2017
Brooke is a hot mess. She just moved into her new apartment, she dropped out of college and she isn’t too happy about her job. Her mother calls her a lot to check up on Brooke and her mother isn’t happy with her recent choices. But Brooke will find herself during the book and she’ll accept herself, which was beautiful to read.
This book made me laugh so much! I loved the banter. I also loved Brooke, Carly and Cain’s friendship. They know each other through and through. They can always count on each other and they always have an amazing time together. I’m happy that Carly has gotten her own story.
The biggest problem I had with this book was that it took way too long before Brooke and Cain became a couple. Brooke has been wanting Cain for a few years now and that was clear from the start. Cain was dating someone, but it was obvious that he wasn’t with the perfect woman. Cain wanted Brooke and he sometimes said things that made that obvious. I get that they didn’t want jeopardize their close and amazing friendship, but I guess I wanted them together more and sooner. I wanted more romance.
This book made me laugh so much! I loved the banter. I also loved Brooke, Carly and Cain’s friendship. They know each other through and through. They can always count on each other and they always have an amazing time together. I’m happy that Carly has gotten her own story.
The biggest problem I had with this book was that it took way too long before Brooke and Cain became a couple. Brooke has been wanting Cain for a few years now and that was clear from the start. Cain was dating someone, but it was obvious that he wasn’t with the perfect woman. Cain wanted Brooke and he sometimes said things that made that obvious. I get that they didn’t want jeopardize their close and amazing friendship, but I guess I wanted them together more and sooner. I wanted more romance.
December 10, 2016
4.0 "HOT MESS" STARS!!!
There's really a reason why I am rooting for any Emma Hart's book. And that comes from the fact that I love her writing style. She's so witty and brilliant and there's really no way you can put the book down when you start reading it. Being Brooke is no different from her other works being brilliantly written. I really had so much fun reading it that people were staring at me because I was laughing out so loud. Take note, do not read this in a crowded place or sneak reading when you're at work as people may really think you're on crack. Moving on, yes it was one helluva fun reading Brooke's journey.It was so hilariously written that I wanted to crawl Emma's brilliant mind just to know how she managed to deliver us books like this that had me really almost choking my own damn laughter.
Best friends to lovers story are my weakness add it up with hilarity and I'm all in. It doesn't matter if it has angst or not, just the fact that it's written good and that it has substance and character maturity and I have no problem with it. So, with this book I simply adored the characters. I love how Brooke is being portrayed so much of a disaster and klutzy. Because behind that is a sassy and witty yet adorable woman who doesn't take shit. "Be a lady and don't take shit". This line is really a definition of her. And I flat out was so into this woman. And before I forgot, *taps mic..."She's sensitive too like a clitoris."
Since we are now talking about clitoris, why not talk about her best friend. Yeah Cain..the best friend / drop-dead-clitoris-calm-your-tits gorgeous man. Hoot!!! Well for a start, I cannot blame Brooke for quietly/ not quietly falling in love with him except that everybody knows it except him.
Talk about him and my ovary just exploded. He's the woman's wet dream and the man every woman want for a best friend and a boyfriend rolled into one. Their interaction is so hilarious and I cannot help myself from laughing at their insane antics and witty banters. When you met him, it's really hard not to fall for him.
In totality, the book is really good. It's a fantastic read where you just had fun and enjoyment and not caring anything else except ride with Brooke and Cain's journey. It was so hilarious and written well. Hands down! There was no sexual tension but a journey of two best friends who has been secretly in love with each other. It was chaotic and insanely mess story you'll definitely love. Above all, it's a story of growing up and owning what you really wanted in life. For Brooke, it's finding herself and achieving and chasing her dream with the support of the one's who love her and believe in her.
There's really a reason why I am rooting for any Emma Hart's book. And that comes from the fact that I love her writing style. She's so witty and brilliant and there's really no way you can put the book down when you start reading it. Being Brooke is no different from her other works being brilliantly written. I really had so much fun reading it that people were staring at me because I was laughing out so loud. Take note, do not read this in a crowded place or sneak reading when you're at work as people may really think you're on crack. Moving on, yes it was one helluva fun reading Brooke's journey.It was so hilariously written that I wanted to crawl Emma's brilliant mind just to know how she managed to deliver us books like this that had me really almost choking my own damn laughter.
Best friends to lovers story are my weakness add it up with hilarity and I'm all in. It doesn't matter if it has angst or not, just the fact that it's written good and that it has substance and character maturity and I have no problem with it. So, with this book I simply adored the characters. I love how Brooke is being portrayed so much of a disaster and klutzy. Because behind that is a sassy and witty yet adorable woman who doesn't take shit. "Be a lady and don't take shit". This line is really a definition of her. And I flat out was so into this woman. And before I forgot, *taps mic..."She's sensitive too like a clitoris."
Since we are now talking about clitoris, why not talk about her best friend. Yeah Cain..the best friend / drop-dead-clitoris-calm-your-tits gorgeous man. Hoot!!! Well for a start, I cannot blame Brooke for quietly/ not quietly falling in love with him except that everybody knows it except him.
"Cain Elliott is a walking wet dream. The type you orgasm from before you wake up."
Talk about him and my ovary just exploded. He's the woman's wet dream and the man every woman want for a best friend and a boyfriend rolled into one. Their interaction is so hilarious and I cannot help myself from laughing at their insane antics and witty banters. When you met him, it's really hard not to fall for him.
"Kissing Cain Elliott is addictive. It's like opening a bag of chips. You can't just have one. You have to have more and more until your hand is groping around in the bottom of the bag and coming up with nothing."
In totality, the book is really good. It's a fantastic read where you just had fun and enjoyment and not caring anything else except ride with Brooke and Cain's journey. It was so hilarious and written well. Hands down! There was no sexual tension but a journey of two best friends who has been secretly in love with each other. It was chaotic and insanely mess story you'll definitely love. Above all, it's a story of growing up and owning what you really wanted in life. For Brooke, it's finding herself and achieving and chasing her dream with the support of the one's who love her and believe in her.
"You're chaos, Brooke Barker. Luckily for you, I happen to love chaos."
December 15, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Being Brooke by Emma Hart is a smart, sassy romantic comedy that highlights a modern day woman who is a hot mess. Yes, your heard me right she is a hot mess. Life is not going according to plan and then add in the fact that her love life is non-existent, you can say being Brooke Barker is not so great especially when she is also in love with her best friend, Cain Elliot, who is oblivious to this fact.
Add in a sprinkle of humor, awkward moments, and Brooke Barker into the mix, readers will be in for one raunchy and sexy riot of entertainment. With her signature stamp of sass and humor, Emma Hart has readers like myself salivating for more. Being Brooke is a prime example of a romantic comedy done right. I honestly think this is hands down my favorite read that Emma has written this year. This book was a riot of entertainment and had romance that left a big fat smile on your face. And let me just say, I want Brooke to be my new BFF!!! So if you are ready to discover why readers are raving about this book, I think it's best to meet Brooke Barker.
Emma Hart
Being Brooke by Emma Hart is a smart, sassy romantic comedy that highlights a modern day woman who is a hot mess. Yes, your heard me right she is a hot mess. Life is not going according to plan and then add in the fact that her love life is non-existent, you can say being Brooke Barker is not so great especially when she is also in love with her best friend, Cain Elliot, who is oblivious to this fact.
Add in a sprinkle of humor, awkward moments, and Brooke Barker into the mix, readers will be in for one raunchy and sexy riot of entertainment. With her signature stamp of sass and humor, Emma Hart has readers like myself salivating for more. Being Brooke is a prime example of a romantic comedy done right. I honestly think this is hands down my favorite read that Emma has written this year. This book was a riot of entertainment and had romance that left a big fat smile on your face. And let me just say, I want Brooke to be my new BFF!!! So if you are ready to discover why readers are raving about this book, I think it's best to meet Brooke Barker.
Emma Hart
March 10, 2017
4 klutzy stars
So yesterday before I started this book, I was feeling a bit down for apparently no reason. Well at least that's what I thought. Turns out, I had been reading reading a lot of dark themed books (I'd say about 8-9 of them in a row). It took a toll lol.
So there I was, hunting for a good ridiculously over the top book that would make me laugh.
And that is exactly what this book gave me.
Brooke was so fucking weird, and I really connected with her because monologue!
You need to read that shit to understand what I mean. She was a round-the-clock klutz, a people hater, sarcastic bitch, and in love with her best-friend. At times, I was laughing hard, because of how ridiculous she was.
“Oh, and please keep your cock under control.”
“That’s the first time a girl I’m dating has ever said that.”
“We’re not dating. We haven’t been on a date. I’m only here to get sleep. Be quiet and control your cock.”
“I don’t know if I can.”
I perch on the edge of the bed. “Do something, Cain. Turn it off. Power down. Run it out of battery. Just control it.”
“Is my cock a robot in your mind?” He gets into bed before I do.
Do you see how fucking hilarious that is?
And that was just one completely random conversation I picked up. The entire book is filled with that. I have to tell you, I had a bad case of chuckles on this one.
So OK, about the book.
Brooke sucks at adulting. Like she really sucks at adulting.
I didn't know if I should feel bad for Cain or be totally in love with him. Because he was just as good (or bad in this case).
For everything that Brooke fails to do (aka almost everything other than baking) she calls Cain. And Cain being the good best-friend he is comes and gets her out of the mess.
The one issue I had with this book was that after about a decade of sexual tension between them, I expected it to be more explosive. Now now, sex is not a must in my reads, but I think it would have been nice to read how they finally shifted from best-friends to lovers.
All in all, I loved their dynamic. Their banter was laugh-out-loud ridiculous, and the sarcasm was exactly what I needed to get out of my stump. I definitely recommend it if you just wanna read something light and relaxing.
December 18, 2016
Damn that was so exactly what I needed. Being Brooke was hilarious, sweet, cute, funny, quirky but above all else just plain awesome. Not that I am at all surprised because everything I have read by Emma Hart has been brilliant but with so much going on at the moment I have had a really hard time keeping my focus on anything.
That wasn’t the case here. As soon as I picked it up I was captivated. Brooke was such a great character and I had so many moments reading this that I could sympathise with (to be honest I am slightly questioning my own sanity after that) I just couldn’t put the book down. She was so clueless and quirky yet sweet and endearing and her conversations and inner monologues had me in absolute fits of laughter.
Cain was a case of insta-love for me too. He was absolutely the best friend a girl could have and I completely understood Brookes infatuation with him. I loved that he didn’t let anyone come between his friendship with Brooke and Carly and every little thing he did showed his beautiful nature.
The secondary characters in this novel were something else and I sincerely pray we get a few books for them or even just a novella for the grandfather would do. Although I would probably be equal parts grossed out as I would be rolling on the floor laughing and thanking my lucky stars he isn’t my grandfather.
This whole novel was just flawless and I honestly can’t recommend it any more as the perfect distraction from the silly season. But maybe don’t read it while drinking or eating as there is a definite choking hazard involved in all the laugh out loud hilarity within.
Check out my reviews here
That wasn’t the case here. As soon as I picked it up I was captivated. Brooke was such a great character and I had so many moments reading this that I could sympathise with (to be honest I am slightly questioning my own sanity after that) I just couldn’t put the book down. She was so clueless and quirky yet sweet and endearing and her conversations and inner monologues had me in absolute fits of laughter.
Cain was a case of insta-love for me too. He was absolutely the best friend a girl could have and I completely understood Brookes infatuation with him. I loved that he didn’t let anyone come between his friendship with Brooke and Carly and every little thing he did showed his beautiful nature.
The secondary characters in this novel were something else and I sincerely pray we get a few books for them or even just a novella for the grandfather would do. Although I would probably be equal parts grossed out as I would be rolling on the floor laughing and thanking my lucky stars he isn’t my grandfather.
This whole novel was just flawless and I honestly can’t recommend it any more as the perfect distraction from the silly season. But maybe don’t read it while drinking or eating as there is a definite choking hazard involved in all the laugh out loud hilarity within.
Check out my reviews here
February 9, 2017
I very much enjoyed this romantic comedy by Emma Hart. It was different than her other books, but a good kind of different. I laughed so many times because of this book.
Brooke is kind of a mess. And along with that, she is in love with her best friend Cain. He totally understands her and is always there for her as a friend.
Over the course of the book, Brooke fights with her feelings for Cain by going on disastrous dates and then worrying about what may happen if they actually tried to be something. The situations Brooke gets into are pretty funny, and she seems to epically fail a lot of the time. I adored her quirky character, even though she was a bit annoying when it came to finally being something more with Cain.
I loved this book. Cain and Brooke were so good together because they’ve been friends for so many years. And it worked well when they got together because Cain already knew all of Brooke’s quirks. I am so looking forward to reading more books by Emma Hart. -Leah, 4.5 Stars
~~~
Full of pop-culture references and snarky humor, Being Brooke was a light-hearted and fun read about 24-year-old “Hot Mess” Brooke Barker, and is told exclusively from her point of view. Her family, her friends, and her dead-end job weren’t safe from her sarcastic (but true) commentary.
Brooke was a breath of fresh air, she didn’t hold back and told it like it was. I really liked her; she’s the kind of person I could see myself being friends with in the real world. While reading, I often found myself nodding my head to the thoughts in her head, and the things that came out of her mouth. Brooke may be snarky, but she’s not mean. Everything she says is the truth, and something she would say to the other person’s face.
The friendship between Cain and Brooke played a central role in the storyline, and while I genuinely did enjoy reading about it, I did wish that the transition from friends to lovers happened a little quicker. So much of the story was spent on the before, and I really wanted more of the after. I wanted to see how Brooke and Cain moved forward and dealt with being in a relationship, as opposed to being friends who had secret feelings for one another.
Ms. Hart really knows how to write witty dialogue and banter between characters that felt not only real but exactly like the kind of conversations I have with my friends! And I really hope that she writes books in the future about some of the side characters, I can totally see this becoming an addictive series to binge on!
“I don’t care about whatever excuse you’re about to give me. You’re chaos, Brooke Barker. Luckily for you, I happen to love Chaos.”
-Tamara, 3.5 Stars
Brooke is kind of a mess. And along with that, she is in love with her best friend Cain. He totally understands her and is always there for her as a friend.
Over the course of the book, Brooke fights with her feelings for Cain by going on disastrous dates and then worrying about what may happen if they actually tried to be something. The situations Brooke gets into are pretty funny, and she seems to epically fail a lot of the time. I adored her quirky character, even though she was a bit annoying when it came to finally being something more with Cain.
I loved this book. Cain and Brooke were so good together because they’ve been friends for so many years. And it worked well when they got together because Cain already knew all of Brooke’s quirks. I am so looking forward to reading more books by Emma Hart. -Leah, 4.5 Stars
~~~
Full of pop-culture references and snarky humor, Being Brooke was a light-hearted and fun read about 24-year-old “Hot Mess” Brooke Barker, and is told exclusively from her point of view. Her family, her friends, and her dead-end job weren’t safe from her sarcastic (but true) commentary.
Brooke was a breath of fresh air, she didn’t hold back and told it like it was. I really liked her; she’s the kind of person I could see myself being friends with in the real world. While reading, I often found myself nodding my head to the thoughts in her head, and the things that came out of her mouth. Brooke may be snarky, but she’s not mean. Everything she says is the truth, and something she would say to the other person’s face.
The friendship between Cain and Brooke played a central role in the storyline, and while I genuinely did enjoy reading about it, I did wish that the transition from friends to lovers happened a little quicker. So much of the story was spent on the before, and I really wanted more of the after. I wanted to see how Brooke and Cain moved forward and dealt with being in a relationship, as opposed to being friends who had secret feelings for one another.
Ms. Hart really knows how to write witty dialogue and banter between characters that felt not only real but exactly like the kind of conversations I have with my friends! And I really hope that she writes books in the future about some of the side characters, I can totally see this becoming an addictive series to binge on!
“I don’t care about whatever excuse you’re about to give me. You’re chaos, Brooke Barker. Luckily for you, I happen to love Chaos.”
-Tamara, 3.5 Stars
September 13, 2018
Brooke has one of those personalities you'll either love or hate. She is coasting through life without a clue. Luckily she has just gain the courage to move out on her own. She's totally head over heels in love with her best friend Cain, unfortunately she doesn't have the courage to put herself out there. Emma Hart is good with comedy and this book made me smile a lot. Brooke is also frustrating and a pain in the butt. Luckily she loveable and can laugh at her misfortunes. This is a friends to more romance. It's slow paced but full of witty banter.
Cain is perfect in Brooke's eyes. She's been in love with him for more of their friendship. He has a girlfriend at the moment but she's totally wrong for him. Brooke isn't willing to admit she has a problem when it comes to Cain. In fact, she would rather go on a non-starter first date. It's going to take a miracle to get these two on the same page. Luckily Cain knows Brooke better than anyone.
This is a fun sassy read. 4.5 stars out of 5. Freebie on Amazon of a limited time. This is my second book by this author and I like her style. The women aren't perfect but not air heads. I think there is a fine line between funny and too much. Emma Hart walks the tight rope well for me.
Cain is perfect in Brooke's eyes. She's been in love with him for more of their friendship. He has a girlfriend at the moment but she's totally wrong for him. Brooke isn't willing to admit she has a problem when it comes to Cain. In fact, she would rather go on a non-starter first date. It's going to take a miracle to get these two on the same page. Luckily Cain knows Brooke better than anyone.
This is a fun sassy read. 4.5 stars out of 5. Freebie on Amazon of a limited time. This is my second book by this author and I like her style. The women aren't perfect but not air heads. I think there is a fine line between funny and too much. Emma Hart walks the tight rope well for me.
December 12, 2016
Emma Hart is bound to have many laughing their grandma panties off with her latest release, Being Brooke.
“I dream about pizza and wine and not wearing pants. I know, I know. I’m going places. Like Weight Watchers, probably.”
College drop out. Twice. Brooke decides she's had enough, and so at 24 she sets out on her own. She gets a job at a travel agency and her very own apartment. Living on take out and out of boxes. Any romance in her life comes from her battery operated friend. She'll have you wondering if she'll ever sort herself out. And let me tell you, it's so much fun watching her try.
Brooke is the epitome of crazy. I'm talking finding her picture listed under 'Hot Mess' in the dictionary. And I absolutely adored her. She's sarcastic, beautiful, witty and bitchy in a refreshing yet brutally honest way. She's also been in love with her best friend Cain for a long time. It's been so long that Brooke is resigned to dealing with her feelings by herself. Never wanting to risk rejection or the loss of their friendship. And yet everyone seems to know, being a small town and all, except for the man himself.
“I’m also totally in love with him to the point I've considered photoshopping myself into pictures with him, so the best friend thing kinda sucks.”
The story is told from Brooke's perspective only, first person narration. Which I felt suited this story well. All of the characters helped bring something amazing to this book, her mum, sister, best friend Carly, Cain's family and even his cranky girlfriend. Brooke's crazy hilarious grandfather had me choking on my coffee more times than I'd like to admit.
Emma delivers something engrossing and so very delectable in Being Brooke. This was such a gripping book, and I think that had a lot to do with the wonderful and extremely witty dialogue. The characters are so flawed in the most honest and humorous of ways that I just couldn't help but relate at times. While Brooke may be pining for a man she believes she can't have and trying to sort her life out, nothing about her story is too grim or serious. It's light hearted and sexy with just a touch of angst. If you're not a fan of a little inappropriate (okay maybe a lot) and lots of cussing, consider this your warning. ;)
“I shrug. “Yeah, well, I don’t speak grumpy. I speak fluent sarcasm, bitch, and PMS.”
Being Brooke is a Rom-Com gem. With a slow burn that you barely even notice due to being so wrapped up in the chaos that is Brooke. Get your one clicking fingers ready, this is the kind of book you'll want to dive into head first before the year is out.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
“I dream about pizza and wine and not wearing pants. I know, I know. I’m going places. Like Weight Watchers, probably.”
College drop out. Twice. Brooke decides she's had enough, and so at 24 she sets out on her own. She gets a job at a travel agency and her very own apartment. Living on take out and out of boxes. Any romance in her life comes from her battery operated friend. She'll have you wondering if she'll ever sort herself out. And let me tell you, it's so much fun watching her try.
Brooke is the epitome of crazy. I'm talking finding her picture listed under 'Hot Mess' in the dictionary. And I absolutely adored her. She's sarcastic, beautiful, witty and bitchy in a refreshing yet brutally honest way. She's also been in love with her best friend Cain for a long time. It's been so long that Brooke is resigned to dealing with her feelings by herself. Never wanting to risk rejection or the loss of their friendship. And yet everyone seems to know, being a small town and all, except for the man himself.
“I’m also totally in love with him to the point I've considered photoshopping myself into pictures with him, so the best friend thing kinda sucks.”
The story is told from Brooke's perspective only, first person narration. Which I felt suited this story well. All of the characters helped bring something amazing to this book, her mum, sister, best friend Carly, Cain's family and even his cranky girlfriend. Brooke's crazy hilarious grandfather had me choking on my coffee more times than I'd like to admit.
Emma delivers something engrossing and so very delectable in Being Brooke. This was such a gripping book, and I think that had a lot to do with the wonderful and extremely witty dialogue. The characters are so flawed in the most honest and humorous of ways that I just couldn't help but relate at times. While Brooke may be pining for a man she believes she can't have and trying to sort her life out, nothing about her story is too grim or serious. It's light hearted and sexy with just a touch of angst. If you're not a fan of a little inappropriate (okay maybe a lot) and lots of cussing, consider this your warning. ;)
“I shrug. “Yeah, well, I don’t speak grumpy. I speak fluent sarcasm, bitch, and PMS.”
Being Brooke is a Rom-Com gem. With a slow burn that you barely even notice due to being so wrapped up in the chaos that is Brooke. Get your one clicking fingers ready, this is the kind of book you'll want to dive into head first before the year is out.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2016
I have mixed feelings about this one. Brooke was a quirky heroine and was amusing at times, but after awhile, those quirks grew annoying. In fact, Brooke reminds me of a goofy young actress.
Yes, I thought of Jennifer Lawrence a lot during this book.
24 year old Brooke Barker had a crush on her best friend Cain Elliot but she hid her real feelings because she didn't want to risk messing up their relationship. Cain, unaware of Brooke's feelings, was also nursing a silent crush on Brooke. So the goofy pair of besties continued to circle around each other until Cain reveals his feelings to Brooke.
That's when the book starts getting dicey for me. Brooke's insecurities suddenly get the best of her and she cannot fathom how a great guy like Cain could truly want her. This somewhat comical story begins to have those "miscommunications" that drag out stories.
I will say that I vacillated between finding Brooke entertaining and immature. Cain, on the other hand, I really liked him. He made a good hero and cared for Brooke idiosyncrasies and all. Cain and Brooke actually should have moved from friends into a romantic relationship much more seamless than they did. Unfortunately the writing got redundant and a tad far-fetched. But Brooke and her other best friend Carly reminded me of friends that I have. I enjoyed that aspect of the story. Another funny character was joyed Carla's grandfather, who managed to rename his alcoholic drinks with sexual positions. I would have loved to have him as a bartender.
The story made me smile at times, and I suspect that many people will chuckle throughout their reading. If you enjoy sassy heroines with self deprecating humor and zany one-liners about sexual parts, you will probably enjoy this story.
*e-ARC provided by InkSlingerPR in exchange for an honest review*
Yes, I thought of Jennifer Lawrence a lot during this book.
24 year old Brooke Barker had a crush on her best friend Cain Elliot but she hid her real feelings because she didn't want to risk messing up their relationship. Cain, unaware of Brooke's feelings, was also nursing a silent crush on Brooke. So the goofy pair of besties continued to circle around each other until Cain reveals his feelings to Brooke.
That's when the book starts getting dicey for me. Brooke's insecurities suddenly get the best of her and she cannot fathom how a great guy like Cain could truly want her. This somewhat comical story begins to have those "miscommunications" that drag out stories.
I will say that I vacillated between finding Brooke entertaining and immature. Cain, on the other hand, I really liked him. He made a good hero and cared for Brooke idiosyncrasies and all. Cain and Brooke actually should have moved from friends into a romantic relationship much more seamless than they did. Unfortunately the writing got redundant and a tad far-fetched. But Brooke and her other best friend Carly reminded me of friends that I have. I enjoyed that aspect of the story. Another funny character was joyed Carla's grandfather, who managed to rename his alcoholic drinks with sexual positions. I would have loved to have him as a bartender.
The story made me smile at times, and I suspect that many people will chuckle throughout their reading. If you enjoy sassy heroines with self deprecating humor and zany one-liners about sexual parts, you will probably enjoy this story.
*e-ARC provided by InkSlingerPR in exchange for an honest review*
December 12, 2016
A whirlwind of delicious hilarity and beautiful romance! One of THE BEST romantic comedies of the year! I NEVER wanted it to end!
I don't know if I've ever laughed so hard or so long while reading a book. But OMG it was just out of this world HILARIOUS on every single level! It was like the author was in my head the whole way through! And Brooke Barker...one of THE BEST heroines in a romance that I've ever read! Hands down! Even though she was a hot mess and an all-around disaster...I wanted to BE HER! I wanted her life! It's hard not to believe that the author didn't put a piece of herself in with her female lead. Emma Hart wrote Brooke SO FREAKING WELL, I just know that there's a part of Brooke in all of us! And our male lead, Cain - gorgeous and loyal best friend to Brooke...an absolute PERFECT MATCH for our girl! Hilarious in his own right, beautiful and handy, loyal to a fault, patient as all HELL! There couldn't have been anyone better suited for Brooke.
"This can't be a first date. There's no pizza."
"Is that a requirement for a first date?"
I raise my eyebrows. "For me it is."
BEING BROOKE was written impeccably! It was written in Brooke's HILARIOUS POV, so we get to listen in on her inner monologues, which were always a freaking treat! At the beginning of each chapter we get a LIFE TIP that will just make you chuckle! The witty banter between this trio of best friends was just absolutely PRICELESS!
Hilarious! Ludicrous! Insanely Entertaining! This was EASILY one of my FAVORITE Romantic Comedies of the year. And it was my favorite Emma Hart book to date!
December 22, 2016
If you're looking for the most obnoxious character ever written, look no further. Brooke is stupid, spoiled, and sarcastic. Did I mention stupid?
The last Emma Hart book I attempted to read, I DNF. But people adore her books, so I thought the problem was me.
It's not.
I persevered through this book because surely there had to be something redeeming. Brooke is completely OTT, and not in a good way. There's no balance. She's loud, she's lazy, she hates her job, she hates her mother for no reason then suddenly gets along with her, she's in love with her best friend who is superman and somehow puts up with her crap, and she doesn't know any words besides "awkward."
She is a klutz but also gorgeous even though she never does her hair or makeup. She can't cook. She can't put furniture together. She has to call Cain to do every little thing for her.
Oh, but wait! Three-quarters of the way through the book, she suddenly reveals a talent for baking that miraculously turns into a new career IMMEDIATELY.
Look, I know romance novels aren't realistic. But come on. There has to be something believable about the plot and something redeemable about the character. Anything.
Also, Cain is a puppet. He lives to serve Brooke and I don't blame his ex for getting upset about it. Plus, he says in the epilogue that Brooke is "literally his everything." I despise the phrase "my everything" and misusing literally with it is the final coffin nail I didn't need to never, ever, ever read this author again.
*I just cruised through other reviews and I'm utterly shocked at how many 4 and 5 star reviews there are. Did we not read the same book???
The last Emma Hart book I attempted to read, I DNF. But people adore her books, so I thought the problem was me.
It's not.
I persevered through this book because surely there had to be something redeeming. Brooke is completely OTT, and not in a good way. There's no balance. She's loud, she's lazy, she hates her job, she hates her mother for no reason then suddenly gets along with her, she's in love with her best friend who is superman and somehow puts up with her crap, and she doesn't know any words besides "awkward."
She is a klutz but also gorgeous even though she never does her hair or makeup. She can't cook. She can't put furniture together. She has to call Cain to do every little thing for her.
Oh, but wait! Three-quarters of the way through the book, she suddenly reveals a talent for baking that miraculously turns into a new career IMMEDIATELY.
Look, I know romance novels aren't realistic. But come on. There has to be something believable about the plot and something redeemable about the character. Anything.
Also, Cain is a puppet. He lives to serve Brooke and I don't blame his ex for getting upset about it. Plus, he says in the epilogue that Brooke is "literally his everything." I despise the phrase "my everything" and misusing literally with it is the final coffin nail I didn't need to never, ever, ever read this author again.
*I just cruised through other reviews and I'm utterly shocked at how many 4 and 5 star reviews there are. Did we not read the same book???
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2019
Muy divertido! Brooke es ...🤦🏻♀️ 😅
December 24, 2018
I'm rounding it up to 3 stars purely because it funny enough to pass as an entertaining read.
Other than that it felt a bit flats.
Brooke though is very likable. She is a drop out, she needs a diet, she needs a proper job and she needs.... she needs love! Well, she kinda already found her love. But it happens to be Cain, her best friend, handsome, and popular, dating other women. See, life is never easy, is it.
So what do you really do when you in love with your best friend? Do you keep it to yourself? Do you even try to do something about it? Do you stand a chance?...
Other than that it felt a bit flats.
Brooke though is very likable. She is a drop out, she needs a diet, she needs a proper job and she needs.... she needs love! Well, she kinda already found her love. But it happens to be Cain, her best friend, handsome, and popular, dating other women. See, life is never easy, is it.
So what do you really do when you in love with your best friend? Do you keep it to yourself? Do you even try to do something about it? Do you stand a chance?...
July 19, 2017
Release Date: December 13, 2016
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Well, this was a fun book and I honestly enjoyed every minute of it! Emma Hart has dazzled me with this quirky romantic comedy. I feel like I haven't laughed this hard in a long time. Even more? I fell head over heels with the characters. The heroine Brooke, is definitely the kind of girl that only some people can handle; she is kind of broody and a sassy smartass, but also, deep down (and I mean very deep down) has a heart of gold. She may take some getting used to, but once she grows on you, you will love her (insecurities and all). Having not read many books by the author I will admit that I wasn't too sure if I would be able to connect with her writing style. But can now proudly say that I can, and will continue to do so. Woohoo!! If your on the lookout for the next GREAT romantic comedy than look no further. Being Brooke is the book you need!
Brooke is a hot mess. Literally. In every sense of the word. She has been secretly crushing on her best friend Cain forever but hides her true feelings because she doesn't want to ruin their great relationship. (This may seem like a mundane and overused book topic, but trust me, Emma Hart's flair and use of characters makes all the difference in the world).
Enter Cain. Brooks BFF. He is a great guy, has a lot going for him, and is nice to look at. He clearly has no idea that Brooke has feelings for him, but that's okay because he may be secretly doing the same. I mean Brooke is, after all, one of the most interesting woman he has ever met. She burns water (oh wait, it just evaporates right?), she can't cook to save her life, and she hates most humans. But thee bond between them is pretty solid and their friendship pretty kickass. So what happens when the lines begin to blur? Many mishaps, lost signals, and some outrageous moments!
The secondary characters in this book are just as fabulous as Brooke and Cain. Brooke's grandfather for instance, does a fine job at naming cocktail drinks after sexual positions and other sexual things. Carly, the other BFF is just as fun and lighthearted and I am silently BEGGING for her to get her own story. And Zeke. Wowza! He could use a story too... Just saying.
Anyway, this is a really great book. Maybe you will read it, maybe you won't. But I got a lot of joy and satisfaction from this one and absolutely adored it. The ending is pretty sweet too and I ALMOST cried... Almost.
5 stars
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Well, this was a fun book and I honestly enjoyed every minute of it! Emma Hart has dazzled me with this quirky romantic comedy. I feel like I haven't laughed this hard in a long time. Even more? I fell head over heels with the characters. The heroine Brooke, is definitely the kind of girl that only some people can handle; she is kind of broody and a sassy smartass, but also, deep down (and I mean very deep down) has a heart of gold. She may take some getting used to, but once she grows on you, you will love her (insecurities and all). Having not read many books by the author I will admit that I wasn't too sure if I would be able to connect with her writing style. But can now proudly say that I can, and will continue to do so. Woohoo!! If your on the lookout for the next GREAT romantic comedy than look no further. Being Brooke is the book you need!
Brooke is a hot mess. Literally. In every sense of the word. She has been secretly crushing on her best friend Cain forever but hides her true feelings because she doesn't want to ruin their great relationship. (This may seem like a mundane and overused book topic, but trust me, Emma Hart's flair and use of characters makes all the difference in the world).
Enter Cain. Brooks BFF. He is a great guy, has a lot going for him, and is nice to look at. He clearly has no idea that Brooke has feelings for him, but that's okay because he may be secretly doing the same. I mean Brooke is, after all, one of the most interesting woman he has ever met. She burns water (oh wait, it just evaporates right?), she can't cook to save her life, and she hates most humans. But thee bond between them is pretty solid and their friendship pretty kickass. So what happens when the lines begin to blur? Many mishaps, lost signals, and some outrageous moments!
The secondary characters in this book are just as fabulous as Brooke and Cain. Brooke's grandfather for instance, does a fine job at naming cocktail drinks after sexual positions and other sexual things. Carly, the other BFF is just as fun and lighthearted and I am silently BEGGING for her to get her own story. And Zeke. Wowza! He could use a story too... Just saying.
Anyway, this is a really great book. Maybe you will read it, maybe you won't. But I got a lot of joy and satisfaction from this one and absolutely adored it. The ending is pretty sweet too and I ALMOST cried... Almost.
5 stars
December 21, 2016
Started on a high note with some really funny lines of dialogue. However, far too soon the nosedive came on fast and furiously. Brooke's behavior became a bit over the top -- far too much silliness and childlike behavior for my taste and not enough solid storyline or depth to what I expected to be a heavy dose of friends to lovers relationship development. Didn't quite live up to my expectations from an Emma Hart read. Sorely disappointed in this one.
December 23, 2016
Very cute.
June 12, 2019
Es divertido, pero esperaba más de su relación. No sé, sentí como que fue muy rápido el cambio de amigos a tener una relación de pareja.
Ella fue un poco demasiado para mi y el me pareció normal. Nada excepcional ni enamorable jajaja.
El hecho de que solo se dieran como 3 besitos me chafó el libro 😑 yo quería mas acción jajaja pa que negarlo!!!
Ella fue un poco demasiado para mi y el me pareció normal. Nada excepcional ni enamorable jajaja.
El hecho de que solo se dieran como 3 besitos me chafó el libro 😑 yo quería mas acción jajaja pa que negarlo!!!
December 31, 2016
For once this wasn't an insta-love story, which I liked. Thank goodness. The relationship/love declarations took a while to come out and that was a nice change after the last few books I've read. I thought the main and side characters were well developed, allowing me to get a good sense of not just the hero/heroine, but their friends, families, and hometown. The surprising element was the lack of sex scenes. Usually I feel that those could be scaled back (sometimes there are just too many), but in this case, the sexy factor could have been upped a bit. What I wasn't crazy about in general were the twenty-something year old characters who talked like foul-mouthed teenagers. That pertains to the hero/heroine, their best friend, brothers, etc.. Because of that, I just couldn't connect to any of them, but particularly to the heroine who seemed incapable of doing anything for herself. That would have been okay if she would have shown some gratitude for other people's help, but that was wishful thinking on my part. It is what it is. I won't connect to every heroine out there, but particularly in this case, it felt like we were oceans apart.
December 13, 2016
"Being Brooke is classic Emma Hart. Wit, humor, and a whole lot of snark and sass!" ~Audrey Carlan, #1 NYT Bestselling Author
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