I went into this book with high hopes, I absolutely adored Katherine Center’s The Bodyguard and The Rom-Commers. Unfortunately, this one just didn’t land the same way for me.

Katie’s character struggled with self-image, which is a very real and relatable theme. But the repeated emphasis on “everyone says I’m beautiful, but I know I’m not” felt overdone and went too far into pick-me territory for my taste. It became more frustrating than sympathetic, and I found myself pulled out of the story by it.

There’s also a scene toward the end involving a competition where the “prize” is getting to kiss Katie—and that moment felt especially uncomfortable. It came across as objectifying and creepy, and it was hard to reconcile that with the otherwise lighthearted tone.

That said, Center’s signature warmth and wit are still present. Her dialogue sparkles, and the chemistry between characters is as charming as ever. Hutch, Rue, and Beanie were definite standouts—I really enjoyed them as side characters and wish they had more.

While this one wasn’t for me, I’m still a big fan of Center’s voice and storytelling, and I’ll definitely be picking up her next release. Here’s to hoping the next one recaptures the magic!

Katie is trying to save her career by convincing the stubborn and selfless Hutch to share one of his heroic rescue stories.
This book should contain a major TW for body-dysmorphia and eating disorder. I'm not triggered by these things, but I know a lot of people are. What actually triggered me, is that the FMC was trying to make us believe that she "practiced" body positivity, and yet she barely talks about anything else than her body and everybody elses. This way of thinking can't be the entire plot, nor can her entire character's personality can be that she's insecure about her body. What could be triggering for some was very annoying for me. What did trigger me, however, is one character insisting that another character drank alcohol. Can we normalize not drinking and minding our business on the matter? I'm even more triggered by the character who folds under the pressure and enters a frigging drinking contest (because that's not the stupidest thing to do). Also, siblings rivalry is one of my least favourite trope. All in all, this one was definitely not for me. I usually adore Katherine Center, but this one is at the very bottom of my list of her books.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Katie is a mid-level producer at a mid-level video production company. She is just trying not to lose her job in the middle of a company downsizing. When her colleague, Cole, presents her with the opportunity to travel to Florida to make a promotional video about Coast Guard rescue swimmers (think Ashton Kutcher in The Guardian), Katie jumps at the opportunity, hoping it will save her job. What she didn't count on was that she would be living in a cottage owned by Cole's Aunt Rue or that the subject of the video would be Cole's older brother, Hutch, who Cole describes as a "Love Hater".

The Love Haters was an unexpected 5 star read. I loved EVERY.SINGLE.MINUTE. of this book. I binged the entire book in one sitting after my kids went to bed, staying up until the wee hours of the morning to get to the end. Hutch and Katie were two stellar but relatable characters. The supporting characters, especially Beanie, Aunt Rue and George Bailey the dog, brought the whole story together. Katie's complicated relationship with herself was so raw and authentic. While the plot may have had some predictable moments, it still had me completely hooked from start to finish. The title is a complete misnomer and really had very little to do with the story as a whole. I loved the way that the author tackled Katie's negative body image with such kindness and compassion. Everyone can learn to love themselves the way Katie did.

Katie & Hutch ❤️

🚁When Katie finds out her videographer employer is downsizing and she and her colleagues are in the firing line, she hopes it won’t affect her. Her line manager Cole gives her the option of travelling to Key West to film his brother, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer, she’s grateful for the chance to escape.

🚁Only the subject of the coast guard recruitment video, Hutch, is a reluctant hero. He rescued Jennifer Aniston’s dog and when it went viral, he really wanted to stay out of the limelight.

🚁When Katie and Hutch meet, the sizzle is undeniable. Soon though, the situation becomes complicated and as things spiral, it takes Katie reaching rock bottom before the couple can move forward.

✏️There’s a movie plot type feel to this story, as if Katie is speaking to the camera. I liked this aspect of the story, but there is also something that feels superficial, that glosses over some of the serious issues that Katie and Hutch experience. From the loss of parents, to death (Hutch and Cole) and divorce (Katie), body image problems, loss of a spouse (Rue), cheating ex’s. There is a lot here but it feels like the author treats it as a fact, in the background to the story unfolding between Hutch and Katie. My favourite part of the story is then open-armed welcome from Rue, Hutch and Cole’s aunt and her friends.

The Love Haters by Katherine Center is a charming, feel-good romance about second chances, self-worth, and finding love when you least expect it.

With witty banter, emotional depth, and a sunny coastal setting, this book delivers all the warmth and hope. It's perfect for anyone who loves a slow-burn romance with heart and humor.

There's a particular alchemy that happens when a romance novel transcends mere entertainment to become a mirror reflecting our deepest insecurities—Katherine Center's "The Love Haters" achieves this rare transformation with spectacular wit and wisdom.

Center crafts a protagonist whose body image struggles pierce through literary distance, creating an almost uncomfortable intimacy. Thea’s self-perception resonates not because it's unique, but because it articulates those private thoughts many of us have whispered to ourselves in dressing room mirrors. This vulnerability becomes the emotional bedrock upon which the narrative builds its most powerful moments.

Against this backdrop of self-doubt emerges Hutch—a character whose appeal lies not merely in physical description but in the way Center constructs his perspective. He sees beyond surface-level beauty culture, challenging our protagonist's self-perception while simultaneously inviting readers to question their own internalized critics. Their chemistry crackles with both humor and depth, elevating their romance beyond predictable patterns.

What distinguishes this novel is Center's masterful balance of lighthearted moments with profound undercurrents. The narrative sparkles with dialogue that provokes genuine laughter while never diminishing the intellectual weight of its themes. The exploration of self-love unfolds organically, never feeling didactic despite its transformative power.

Reading "The Love Haters" feels like discovering a new language for articulating familiar emotions—a vocabulary that combines intellectual understanding with visceral recognition. In a genre often dismissed for superficiality, Center delivers a work that honors both heart and mind, reminding us that the most meaningful romances begin with how we love ourselves.

This book doesn't just entertain—it illuminates, challenges, and ultimately affirms with extraordinary warmth and insight.

Thank you, St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley, for my free E-ARC.

I absolutely loved The Rom-Commers so I was very excited for a new Katherine Center book! It gives the same sweet and sarcastic vibes I was hoping for. My only drawback is that one of the biggest plot points in the story is the main character dealing with body image issues. It just got to the point where it felt a bit overdone. If you can look past that part then I think it is a fun and cute romcom that has some wonderfully sweet moments.

I was so into this! I loved the slow burn and the setting was incredible. I thought the main character’s struggles were relatable but also added a lot of humor to the book. This was the best beach read!

Katie Vaughn has been burned by love in the past—now she may be lighting her career on fire. She has two choices: wait to get laid off from her job as a video producer or, at her coworker Cole’s request, take a career-making gig profiling Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in Key West. The catch? Katie’s not exactly qualified. She can’t swim—but pretends that she can.

Plus, Cole and Hutch are brothers. And they don’t get along. Next stop: paradise! But paradise is messier than it seems. As Katie gets entangled with Hutch (the most scientifically good-looking man she has ever seen . . . but maybe a bit of a love hater), along with his colorful aunt Rue and his rescue Great Dane, she gets trapped in a lie. Or two. Swim lessons, helicopter flights, conga lines, drinking contests, hurricanes, and stolen kisses ensue—along with chances to tell the truth, to face old fears, and to be truly brave at last.
My Thouights:

As we journey along with Katie and others in The Love Haters, we begin to understand how important Hutch is to Katie’s efforts.

Will she begin to connect with him during their various efforts?

When Katie begins to connect with Hutch in a big way, something happens to push them off track. Hutch’s brother Cole tells a lie that could end them.

And a hurricane pushes them off track, too, leaving Katie clinging to the houseboat, hoping for rescue.

A great story that kept me intrigued throughout: five stars.

***

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I have really enjoyed Katherine Center romance books, and this one is great as well. Katie and Hutch are such great characters. Katie is a film producer and gets an assignment to film Hutch who is a trained Air Rescue Diver (think The Guardian with Ashton Kutcher). Katie also has some massive insecurities about her body, and we see a lot of her physical self-loathing on page. I could see how this might bother some readers, but as a tall girl who grew up in the mid-90s to early-00s I felt so seen!! As much as I enjoyed the characters and the story, I loved reading about Katie redefining her relationship with her body. I didn't like the going along with lies in the end of the second act, but glad how it resolved. This is a fast read with depth, great characters, and lots of character growth. Greatly enjoyed!

I’m not going to lie, Center is one of my absolute favorite authors! It is rare for me to not love her books and this one was no exception! I loved Katie and Hutch and loved watching their story unfold. However, I did want to shake Katie! Why did she go along with all the crazy antics of someone she barely knew! That just added some unneeded drama.
One of my favorite things is that Center writes “real” women. They have flaws and struggle with the same thoughts as we do. I loved how Katie relied on her best friend Beanie and then found such a wonderful support system with Rue and The Gals. Those friendships were the real winning part of this book!

Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

As per usual with Katherine Center, I loved this. Katherine just injects magic into everything she writes. This book was heartfelt while also being hilarious. And the premise was also so unique!! This was just a good time and I miss these characters already.

3.5 rounded up for goodreads. In true Katherine Center fashion, this was a quick, fun, witty rom-com. She always finds a way to make the characters come alive & have you cheering for them all along. Taking you on an adventure with some predictable outcomes, some that make you LOL & at the same incorporating a story of body positivity and self love. This made me want to pack up & head to key west!

I was so excited to receive an email from St Martin’s Press inviting me to read an early copy of this book!! Big thanks to Katherine Center, St. Martin’s Press & NetGalley!

Love this book so much!!! As someone who has also struggled with body image, I felt seen by Katie’s character. I also love the green flag in human form that is Hutch. I’ve never wanted to be stranded on a pontoon boat in the middle of a hurricane, but it definitely doesn’t seem so bad now.

Katherine Center does it again!

-Enemies to Lovers
-Coast Guard Hero
-Forced Proximity
-grumpy x sunshine

Some of my favorite quotes:
“You’re a TV jingle you never wanted to learn, but can’t erase. You’re a puzzle that can’t be solved—or a question that can’t be answered—or a dream you wake up from that feels like it really happened. But it didn’t happen. And it can’t happen. Because that’s not how dreams work.”

“You weren’t the reason she died. You were her last wish.”

““Wow,” she said, starting to look tired. “Your life is worse than mine.” “Probably.”“Let’s be best friends, then,” she said.”

“The way I was missing him. The way I couldn’t stop longing for him. The way my thoughts, and my heart, and my entire body were completely capsized by everything that had just happened . . . there was no other explanation. It just had to be love.“

““Love is the worst.” But he was smiling at me. “It makes you jealous. And possessive. And desperate. It upsets your orderly life. It haunts you, and worries you, and gets you drunk with your brother. It tempts you. It makes you say yes when you should say no, and it stops you from saying yes when that’s the only thing you want to do.“

“People are resilient. We keep going. We find all kinds of ways to thrive anyway.”

“The past can’t hurt you now like it did then. The story of your life is always full of mystery. You can unfold it on a table like a map, and study it, and understand it in new ways. It’s not different, but you are.”


“That’s what no one ever tells you. You can look around with your own eyes. You can find your own details. Notice for yourself what matters—and decide what it means. It’s as true as it is life-changing. But the only way to do it is to do it.”

Love and Revelations

| rom com | contemporary romance | amazing story telling | real & wholesome | humorous | self love | body dysmorphia | phobias | chromophobia | videographer x rescue swimmer | the keys | slow burn | friendship | relatable | animal companion | single POV | to feel seen |

Would I recommend this book? A million times yes.
Is it spicy? Not at all—but if you love love, this story will leave its mark on you.

This is the story of a woman on a journey to love herself—a journey that feels both achingly familiar and refreshingly new. It's heartwarming, grounding, and so deeply human. It didn’t just move me—it made me reflect on how stories shape the way I feel, not just about the characters, but about myself.
The storytelling is exceptional—thoughtful, intentional, and full of real emotion. I learned things I’d never even considered before, like the life and risks of a rescue swimmer. I'd never encountered this profession in fiction or otherwise, and it opened my eyes to a whole new kind of bravery and responsibility.

Having read Katherine Center before, I knew what to expect: love, passion, and raw human emotion. I also knew there wouldn't be any spice—and honestly, it wasn’t missed. When the story is this real, this relatable, and this emotionally rich, the absence of spice doesn’t feel like a lack. It’s replaced by depth.

And I say this as someone who's currently in my Love Hater era. Love isn’t easy. It’s not clean or logical. It can hurt. But it can also bring out the very best in us—and sometimes, the parts we didn’t even know existed. This book gets that. It’s fulfilling, it’s tender, and it lingers. I don’t often find contemporary romances that strike me this deeply, which is exactly why I urge you: if you're even thinking about reading this, just do it. Let it unfold. You won't regret it.

I especially recommend this book to anyone who has struggled with self-image or felt unkind to themselves in their own skin. There are moments, reflections, and lines in this book that will stay with me—some forever.

Thank you, Katherine, for this story. For reminding me that love starts at home—with self-love—and only from there can it truly flourish.

Happy Reading, Friends xx

I think that this was an interesting read, different from most of the books that I read because it features a character who is a video producer and the other character is a coast guard swimmer. I don’t know anything about the coast guard or what goes into being a video producer so it was interesting to read about it. I think Katie seems like a very self depreciating person but I liked Hutch. I also liked his rescue dog. The plot was fine, just overall I thought the whole concept of love haters was kind of strange, I get why Katie would be classified as one however one bad experience should not automatically make you hate love.

Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for a chance to read this ARC copy.

4.5 ⭐️ Take me to the Florida keys to fall in love with a coast guard rescue swimmer! What a perfect summer read this was. I laughed, I teared up, I was on the edge of my seat. Katie's story is so much deeper when you dive into this book, her journey to self love and acceptance is something every woman should strive to reach.

Katherine Center has become one of my must-read romance authors. And I think this might be my favourite book yet!

I picked up my ARC after several disappointing reads, hoping this would get me out of my reading slump - and it ended up being a 5-star read! I can't count the number of times I laughed out loud. The characters were sweet, the story was the right amount of romance, humour and heart. What I didn't expect, though, is how much I cried - because of George Bailey. If I didn't know better, I'd swear he was modelled after my own boy! They have almost identical backgrounds, are both large dogs who think they're small, and they have the same temperament <spoiler>My boy would 10/10 carry around toads for fun. He is the ultimate weirdo. And without a doubt, I would turn around in a hurricane to go back to him.</spoiler> I wasn't expecting to be so stressed for the last several chapters! I flew through this one and couldn't put it down. I am officially going to read through all of Katherine Center's backlist, because I am obsessed! I will definitely be grabbing a copy for my bookshelf when this comes out, because I know it will be a reread.

The love story between the main female character, Katie, and herself is the star of the show. Having a bestie/cousin that forces her to talk about her body and has helped her rise from the ashes of past eating issues was so well done.

There is also Hutch, a male character who “hates love” but is an absolute amazing person. He always sees the good in people or how to make the most of a situation. He also has a giant Great Dane that thinks he’s a lap dog. The friendship that developed between Hutch and Katie was such an amazing addition to this story.