Bad at Love
by Shannon O’Connor
Released: June 01, 2026
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Why this book and why now?
I wanted to write a book that encompassed mental health struggles without “magically curing” them when the character falls in love. I wanted a sapphic book where they both struggle, they work on themselves, they go to therapy and they want to heal.
What is a significant way your book has changed since either the first draft or the way you thought it would turn out when you first had the inspiration?
I originally thought only Cari was going to be in therapy but it turns out Max needed therapy too, if not just as much!
Is there anything you wish readers knew before diving into this book?
Read past the first few chapters. You might be tempted to give up, the main characters absolutely DO NOT belong together at first. But once they get through their trauma and big feelings in therapy, I promise their relationship will make sense.
Which character do you relate to the most, and why?
Definitely Cari. Her struggles with Borderline Personality Disorder mirrors my own struggles in some ways.
Which character was the most fun to write, and which was the hardest?
Cari was so fun to write because she’s SO messy! You never knew what she was going to do next, she kept me on my toes.
If your book were to be adapted into a movie or TV show, who would be your dream cast?
Max- Halsey & Cari- Nicola Coughlan
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
Max is toasting with any type of coffee, and Cari is with fake champagne (sparkling juice) because she needs bubbles but probably shouldn’t be drinking anymore.
If your book had a scent, what would it smell like?
Cari’s cherry lip gloss
Do you outline your books in detail, or do you prefer to discover the story as you write?
Outline in detail but also leave room for me to add as I write
Do you have any writing rituals or habits?
I used to be a night writer but now I work in the mornings after my son goes to school. I usually need an iced coffee but I’m trying to break that habit.
What are you currently reading?
The Rule of Three by Sara Cate
