What if time was the only thing that kept you from falling in love?
Kate Wesley knows about that all too well. When time is no longer on her side, she decides to live. To be spontaneous and live with no regrets. But her perfectly crafted plan is shattered when she meets Gabe and the moment he comes face to face with her, he realizes he doesn’t ever want to let go. No matter how fast she runs away.
Life has a tricky way of catching up to you, of forcing your hand, of leaving you with no choice. Kate accepts her destiny and pushes anyone out that threatens to get close. But how will she feel when Gabe pushes back?
Would you give your heart to someone if you knew it wouldn’t last forever? Would you risk it anyway for a chance at love?
**Previously titled Bad at Love** Not suitable for readers under 18. Mature audience only.
Brooke Cumberland is a USA Today Bestselling author who wears many hats on any given day. She co-wrote under the USA Today Bestselling duo, Kennedy Fox for six years before going back to solo writing. She lives in the frozen tundra of Packer Nation with her husband, wild teenager, and four dogs. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, watching ASMR and reading vlogs on YouTube, or binge-watching a TV show she's most likely behind on. Brooke's addicted to iced coffee, leggings, and naps. She found her passion for telling stories during winter break one year in grad school—and she hasn’t stopped since.
I already knew this was gonna be heartbreaking before I got into it. So I already knew that I was not gonna get my HEA, and it well that might have pissed me off a little bit, because no matter what I always root for things to work out, and always have that little slimmer of hope that things will come around. They didn't!
Both Kate and Gabe had had heartbreaking pasts, and it was already pretty heartbreaking to read about that. Now put them in the same house, have them bicker, hang out, sex it up and fall in love, while knowing it was doomed from the start. Yeah, what's more heartbreaking than that? I had all the time in the world to ready myself for the worst, but I didn't. It still hurt, a lot. After reading all the fun and sweet bits, she's just gone anyway and damn it all to hell.
I'm also not very happy with the end, I mean of course I wanted him to move on like Kate asked him to but I didn't have a year and 5 months to prepare myself for that like he did.
Ugh, I'm sorry, this book just ruined me a little, that's all. It's still a good book, and if you're like me and you get off on reading books that break your heart, this is definitely one you'll not want to miss!
Okay okay, I just realised that I was a real pessimist while writing this, and not the whole book is heartbreaking like I probably made you think. It has a lot of funny moments that will make you laugh out loud, and really sexy moments too. This books is very worth reading, I swear. I just really love my HEA and I'm still sad and frustrated this one could never happen.
These both make me smile and want to cry at the same time. *Sigh*
I chuckle. “No promises.” She glares at me, but I ignore it. I inch closer, grabbing her waist and pulling us closer together, so we’re almost touching. “Princess, I guarantee you the moment your tongue tastes mine—again—you’ll be begging for more than just a fucking kiss. But I will promise you one thing…” I wrap my other hand behind her neck, pulling her mouth so close to mine our lips almost touch. “I won’t stop no matter what’s on your damn list,” I whisper.
“So how do two broken people with damaged souls come together for the sake of healing?” I ask aloud. “I’m not sure there’s even such a thing.”
“I’ve been dying to know what you taste like, Kate. It’s all I’ve been able to think about every morning while you were in that shower, the same shower I was using, thinking of all the ways I could make you scream in there if I had my way.”
“Stop,” I say, tilting her chin to look up at me. “You’ve given me the most precious gift in the entire world. You’ve made me feel again, Kate. You gave me a reason to wake up and seize the moment. You made me laugh and smile and fuck, Kate, you made me forget. But I don’t care what you say or what you’re afraid will happen. I’m not letting you go.”
When I heard about this starter set, I knew I had to get it. Not only because it will give me a taste of all of Brooke's amazing series, it also has her newest novella, Bad Girlfriend. In the set, I've only read The Intern and that's how my craving for all her books started. The moment I read the synopsis, it got me intrigued and so excited for its release.
As expected, I instantly fell in love with Gabe and Kate the moment I started reading it. I really had a hard time putting it down. I love how they met, how their relationship started and how it developed into something more intimate. Their meeting was epic. I had a good laugh reading that part. Love their bantering and the challenges both imposed on each other. Love the humor and wit. I knew then that I had fallen in love with Gabe.
Kate going to her cousin's wedding was a life changing experience for her. She knew her fate was already sealed. But it didn't deter her to live her life to the fullest. She was so strong and had a positive disposition despite her condition. Meeting Gabe was the best thing that ever happened to her. Like Kate, Gabe also lost a loved one. Together they found solace in each other's arms.
Brooke did an job in portraying all the characters. The scenes leading to the ending were very well put. Though I was kinda hoping for a different one. But as I read further, I knew that it was the perfect ending and it's what it should be.
Two thumbs up for this incredible and well executed book. I laughed hard, I cried harder and I swooned the hardest. Winding down & laying on my bed, I've just realized my increasing appetite for anything Brooke. I think I'll read some more tonight and end this day with a perfect night. Sweet dreams!
The cover and title looked innocuous enough to be read at 1 in the morning, so that's what I did. Little did I know it would fuck me up, and result in me having a pounding headache once I wake up. Don't read it if you have something pressing the next day. I was trying to stay away from heavy books that would make me cry, because finals are in a week, and I need to study. I need to read books that will bore me to sleep, not keep me awake half the night crying. But no, life has other plans for me. I don't regret it, but at the same time, I kind of do. That's a lie, I don't, not really.
Bad Girlfriend follows the story of Kate and Gabe- both who have lived through grief.
They meet at their friends Natalee and Trance’s house, as groomsman and maid of honor. They quickly find out they like each oter, and Gabe learns of Kate’s bucket list, and decides to help her cross off as much as he can in the week they spend together. They begin to fall for each other, but Kate isn’t having it- she decides to try to leave, before anything can come of it.
This book… I don’t know how to describe this book. It was an amazing read. Full of moments bringing love, and laughter, and tears. I cried at the end of this book. This book gave me all the feels, and I have loved every minute reading this story- even come the ending. I give this story 5⭐ out of 5⭐ and would definitely recommend anyone who loves romance, and books that will wrench your heart out, and make you feel all the emotions.
The title just doesn't give any indication of what this book is really about. Be ready for some tears. There is some really serious subject matter in this book. Kate's acceptance of it and the way she handles most of it are admirable. It hit way to close to home for me, so if you have lost a loved one due to cancer, just be prepared. The story itself was very well written though. The only part I wasn't overly fond of was the very end...just felt kind of forced or abrupt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
You will definitely need a box of kleenex e's for this story. It was so well written, I felt like I was in the story and was on an emotional roller coaster! It is a great reminder to live every day to the fullest and don't hold back your feelings or you may not get the chance.
I didn't know what to expect reading Bad Girlfriend. I bought it, cause you wrote it. Wow! That was a tough read for me. It made me cry! Lost my mom to cancer to 2011. I try to avoid these kind of books. I'm glad I didn't know. I really enjoyed it! Thank you.
I hate you, Brooke Cumberland. This was such a quick read, and I also couldn't put it down. I became so invested in these amazing characters almost instantly. This book is romance personified. The characters were all just so pure and just beautiful in every way. The longing in my chest and the ache in my heart were kept mostly at bay with the beauty and the laughter the story brought with it. I knew what was coming, I felt it all over, but I'd hoped it would go a different way. As I turned the last page, I had tears so heavy I could barely see. My heart was shattered. The epilogue gives you hope for Gabe, but Kate ... I just couldn't handle it. To make me love these characters and then rip my heart from my chest... you're evil!! Thank you for giving me this wonderful, inspiring story. I will try to forgive you. It just won't be today. 😭
OMG, I knew what was going to happen and it still gutted me. This is a beautiful love story that will yank the heart right out of your chest. Kate has hqd some crap cards dealt to her and Gabe has too yet they are able to be there for each other. The issues they face are presented in a tasteful manner that gives you an opportunity to experience it right along with them. This was my first book by Brooke but it won't be the last.
I'm a fan of this author, but this book was a dud for me. I went into it expecting a short little sexy novella, but that wasn't what I got at all. The writing was far too slow, plus there was very minimal sexy scenes. The secret the heroine's keeping from everyone was what kept me reading, but it was very unrealistic when it came to light, causing me to start skimming just to finish. The very end and hint at another book had me pissed and irritated. I won't be reading anything else with this series or characters from it, but I'll still read other works from this author.
I was provided an ARC copy of All Our Love anthology for an honest review. This is one of the amazing stories in the anthology. Brooke wrote an amazing story. I absolutely loved it. She had me tearing up at the end, I was hoping for a miracle. I'm so happy that Gabe and Kate found each other, they have an amazing love. This story just goes to show you, that no matter what, you shold always love. I'm happy to see there will be a full length novel. I will be reading it.
Bad Girlfriend is an emotional rollercoaster that you'll never want to end. My heart ached for both Kate and Gabe, I rooted for them individually and then for them as a couple while their relationship progressed. The both deserve a lifetime of happiness and I wanted that for them so badly! Cumberland packed in a lot of heart into this novella, FIVE stars!! A must read for all romance lovers!
I knew coming into Bad Girlfriend that it was going to tug at the heartstrings and induce body quaking sobs. However, even knowing that I was still unprepared for the raw emotion that engulfed my heart. Bad Girlfriend is everything that a love story should be...even if it is a short love story, emotion, lust, humor and and undeniable spark that could not be contained.
I loved Kate; she was a very down to earth in your face! I felt her. However, what I didn't get it the fact that Gabe already went through this with Sophie/Sophia I can't see himself doing this again.. especially since he has an option.. it was rushed..
This book showed me once again that life is short and you need love everyday like it's your last! Live with no regrets and that's what Gabe taught Kate! Even if it's short imbrace it!!! This book made me laugh and cry. I loved it! 5 stars plus Brooke!!!
I am not even sure how to begin to explain how I feel about this book because it wasn't at all what I was expecting. Don't be fooled by the title because it doesn't imply what you would think. This story is much more deeper and heartfelt than I had ever expected. Gabe and Kate's story had completely taken me by surprise. I found it very refreshing that this story didn't follow the typical storyline that I've seen repeatedly in romance books. Let me also say that this love story doesn't have your typical happily ever after. But this book was so worth the read. Now I don't want to give too much away of the plot because I feel that it would ruin the story. I think that going into this book with an open mind and not too much background of the story will help in better understanding and appreciating Kate and Gabe's journey. The basic premise of the story revolves around Kate whose just learned some tragic news that has ultimately altered her life and started her journey into living life to the fullest. In addition, the new circumstances in Kate's life has motivated her into fulfilling her bucket list. But what she didn't plan was to fall in love with a man who would eventually alter her carefully constructed plan.
I've to be honest that this was a tough read for me. The heroine's struggle and unfortunate circumstances throughout this book really struck a cord with me because it was so relatable and heartbreaking. Kate and Gabe's journey had me captivated from the first page to the last. My heart truly went out for these characters and I couldn't help in feeling so immersed in their love story. The undeniable chemistry and dynamic between these characters made for some highly entertaining and steamy moments throughout this book. At times, I had a hard time putting this book down. Even though this book was a novella, I couldn't help in wanting more of these characters and of this story especially after that ending. Bad Girlfriend is such a compelling love story that will pull on your heartstrings and leave you begging for more! This is one love story that shouldn't be missed.
Bad Girlfriend is the first book I read by Brooke Cumberland. Being honest, I almost didn't read it, but I readed it. Lately I am considering that the time and money invested in a book are valuable, so I have become somewhat strict in the selection of books. But why wouldn't I read this one? Simply the title of the book. But when I came across a review from someone who had read it, I allowed myself to read the synopsis of the book and give it a try.
Now what can I say after reading the book?
That I really am a masochist ... With the synopsis, the review I read and the beginning of the reading I already knew what it was about and how it would end. I have cried like a Magdalena. Kate and Gabe's story is beautiful, they both have things in common, although neither Kate nor Gabe realize it, such as: Knowing the meaning of losing someone. And that there is no time that can separate two people who really love each other.
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***Valoración: Entre 3.5/5 a 4/5 estrellas***
Bad Girlfriend es el primer libro que leo de Brooke Cumberland. Siendo honesta casi no lo leo, pero lo leí. Últimamente estoy considerando que el tiempo y el dinero invertido en un libro son valiosos, por lo que me he vuelto algo estricta en la selección de libros. Pero, ¿por qué no iba a leer este? Sencillamente el título del libro. Pero cuando me encontré con una reseña de alguien que lo había leído, me permití leer la sinopsis del libro y darle una oportunidad.
¿Ahora que puedo decir después de leer el libro?
Que realmente soy una masoquista… Con la sinopsis, la reseña que leí y el principio de la lectura ya sabía de qué iba y cómo iba a terminar. He llorado como una Magdalena. La historia de Kate y Gabe es hermosa, ambos tienen cosas en común, aunque Kate ni Gabe se dan cuenta, como por ejemplo: Conocer el significado de perder a alguien. Y que no hay tiempo que pueda separar a dos personas que realmente se aman.
Bad Girlfriend is the first book I have ever read by Brooke Cumberland and it will not be my last. It broke my heart to bits and pieces and then glued it all back together, but it was worth every single tear I shed.
Warning: When you're ready to dive in, make sure you have your tissues ready because you're going to need them. #TearJerkerAlert
Kate learns early on that she doesn't have a lot of time left and you can imagine how terrible it would feel to find out that you only have so long to live. When this happens, Kate refuses to let anyone get close, and I mean anyone. She becomes determined to live the rest of her days alone because she doesn't want to fall in love when she knows her days are counted, but her plan falls apart when she meets Gabe.
Gabe is everything Kate wants in a man, but she denies herself the chance to get close to him because she fears falling in love when she knows she doesn't have long to live, but no matter how hard she tries to fight her growing attraction to him, she can't. The more she resists him, the more she wants him, and no matter how much she turns him down, Gabe does not give up easily, because he wants her just as much as she wants him. Together they make the greatest tug of war ever! I personally loved every second of it, even if at times I wanted to yell at them to just get together already. Lol
I love Kate and Gabe to bits and pieces! Their story broke my heart and made me ugly cry so much, but it was totally worth the heartache and all the tears, because their love story is one that will stay with me forever and ever.
I wholeheartedly recommend Bad Girlfriend to all romance junkies out there who love a good tear jerker. This book was made for all of you, so what are you waiting for? Go get your copy now!
Bad Girlfriend is the first book I have ever read by Brooke Cumberland and it will not be my last. It broke my heart to bits and pieces and then glued it all back together, but it was worth every single tear I shed.
Warning: When you're ready to dive in, make sure you have your tissues ready because you're going to need them. #TearJerkerAlert
Kate learns early on that she doesn't have a lot of time left and you can imagine how terrible it would feel to find out that you only have so long to live. When this happens, Kate refuses to let anyone get close, and I mean anyone. She becomes determined to live the rest of her days alone because she doesn't want to fall in love when she knows her days are counted, but her plan falls apart when she meets Gabe.
Gabe is everything Kate wants in a man, but she denies herself the chance to get close to him because she fears falling in love when she knows she doesn't have long to live, but no matter how hard she tries to fight her growing attraction to him, she can't. The more she resists him, the more she wants him, and no matter how much she turns him down, Gabe does not give up easily, because he wants her just as much as she wants him. Together they make the greatest tug of war ever! I personally loved every second of it, even if at times I wanted to yell at them to just get together already. Lol
I love Kate and Gabe to bits and pieces! Their story broke my heart and made me ugly cry so much, but it was totally worth the heartache and all the tears, because their love story is one that will stay with me forever and ever.
I wholeheartedly recommend Bad Girlfriend to all romance junkies out there who love a good tear jerker. This book was made for all of you, so what are you waiting for? Go get your copy now!
Bad Girlfriend is the first book by Brooke Cumberland that I've read (I have read Kennedy Fox, but not her alone), and OH MY GOSH this did not disappoint. It was so emotional and the story kept me so intrigued, I did not want to put it down. Time is the only thing stopping Kate from falling in love, but if you weren't guaranteed time, would you take a risk on love anyway? Kate and Gabe are such well developed characters, which is amazing considering this is a novella! I felt so many feelings for both of them, and I was SOBBING by the end of this book. Brooke Cumberland conveyed so many feelings in every single page. Her writing is amazingly beautiful, and it shines through the story. I loved every character and every moment of the book. Just go get it and read it. DO IT!
Kate finds out that she has cancer. Her grandma had it and died after fighting against it. Then her mother ended up with breast cancer and Kate took care of her mom until the end. She decided to definitely not treat the disease and call it a day. She goes off to her best friends wedding to be her maiden of honor. She ends up meeting Gabe. He helps with her bucket list and he puts up with her wise cracks! This story was a special little story about life and living to the fullness. It was just hit the spot for a simple read. I enjoyed reading this author story.
This is an amazing story about strength and courage. Kate makes the hardest choice anyone can make in their life. Most people will never understand the strength and courage it takes to choose to live your life to the fullest when you know time is limited. Gabe made the ultimate sacrifice to love a woman with everything he has knowing it's only for a short time.
Holy! I went into this book completely blind, and what an emotional roller coaster this book took me on! I laughed, smiled, and bawled my face off in this book! The story of Kate and Gabe is heart wrenchingly beautiful in the best way possible! I can only imagine having someone to love me and be as devoted as Gabe was to Kate.
This was my first read of Brooke’s, who was one half of Kennedy Fox, and I can honestly say it will not be my last.
This was such an easy read, it pulled me in from the beginning and I couldn’t stop. I questioned Kate keeping her secret but I understand why she did. My heart almost broke as her connection with Gabe grew stronger. I’m glad she was able to get her happily ever after. This definitely was a tear jerker for me but well worth it. I highly recommend this story.
This book made me cry! It was so sad. I loved how the characters came together. I loved the setting and the story. It was such an amazing read. I started this book around 11:20pm and finished it at 2 in the morning! I couldn't put it down! Definitely a great read. <3 I read this book under the title of "Bad At Love"