Thank you to the publisher for this ARC!

I absolutely devoured this book. It showed the true struggle of overcoming issues with body image and loving yourself. Katie’s journey throughout the book of learning to love herself was truly the driving force that had me reading it in one sitting.

I loved the side characters. They were quirky small town beach characters that you do truly find in communities like that. Also, can we give a round of applause for the dog, George Bailey? He was wonderful!

I felt like Cole’s story took away from it all, but it wasn’t terrible. It got Katie down to Florida, but I didn’t think it needed to be that dramatic.

Hutch was awesome. He just was. While the story doesn’t focus as much on them, as it does on their personal journey, I loved that they got their ending, after Katie worked on herself and her love of herself.

I cried. I laughed. I cried some more from the overall inspiration that Katherine Center wrote into this book. As someone who struggled with body positivity, it was so refreshing.

Reviews will also be posted to social media at a later date.

Katherine Center's latest romance novel is a fun, summer read. Katie is a videographer assigned to film a video featuring her co-worker's grumpy brother. She ends up staying with his aunt and fun hijinks and romantic near misses ensue. I enjoyed the storyline and dialogue between the lead characters. Trigger warning: eating disorders and body dysmorphia. Katies has recurrent negative thoughts and comments about her body throughout the novel. At times it was a bit much for me.

I love Katherine Center’s books! This was a fun read. I liked the characters and setting! I appreciate the arc of this book! Looking forward to her next book!

To preface this review: thank you thank you NetGalley gods and the like for blessing me with the newest Katherine Center. I've been a huge fan of Center's since I read How to Walk Away. She is pure magic and love her but this one is unfortunately not my favorite but a solid 3.5 stars, 4 rounded.

The book: Katie is a videographer on the verge of losing her job when her coworker Cole, gives her an assignment: create a promotional video for the US Coast Guard which features his estranged brother, Hutch. One catch though, Katie can't swim. She lies and accepts the job in-part to escape the public backlash of her breakup with her ex-fiancé cheating on her. Katie is also dealing with personal issues (trigger warning weight/body image) from said breakup and her childhood trama. In Key West, Katie learns more about herself and how she can truly add color and character into her world.

I felt that the end of the book was quite far-fetched which is why I knocked off a star & half. I enjoyed the sub-characters immensely and hope that there is a spin-off for Beanie in the future. Katie and Hutch's character arches were very well-written but I wish we got to see more of their everyday happenings and their love bloom (also I just realized how moronic that last part sounds but I felt that we didn't get to see them falling in love ok!)

I only have a few comfort read authors, and Katherine Center is one of them. I’ve read every one of her books, and I expect disappointment each time, but I never get it (hope for the best, but expect the worst and all that). I still hold Hello Stranger as my favorite Center book, but this one comes to it closely. The Love Haters is number two in the most recent grouping of stories, which I think has a jilted theme, with Charlie from The Rom-Commers not believing in love and Cole having similar aversions to the feeling as well. I love seeing what new spin on all the romance tropes I’ll find in Center’s books; this one’s got some clever ones for sure.

Two things readers can most definitely expect in a Katherine Center rom-com are actually funny comedic parts and seriously emotionally hard-hitting aspects. While Emma has to lie to keep her job (she can’t really swim) and suffer a notoriously grumpy and video-resistant film subject in the meantime. Though Cole has a bristly exterior, he seems to be a giant softie to everyone else, especially the older ladies who hang out at the pool, his aunt, and his giant ninny dog. The irony made comedic gold and the dog took the cake.

Characters in Center books are no less awesome, and usually the side characters have some serious appeal that threatens to overshadow the mains, which happened here in spades. Cole’s aunt needs her own book or something, and I need an origin story of ninny dog in the form of a picture book stat.

Just about everything about this book tugged on the heartstrings. If Katherine Center keeps writing, I’ll gladly take regular breaks from SFF books to come back to the real world. But just for a bit. I must be about my magical business.

I only have a few comfort read authors, and Katherine Center is one of them. I’ve read every one of her books, and I expect disappointment each time, but I never get it (hope for the best, but expect the worst and all that). I still hold Hello Stranger as my favorite Center book, but this one comes to it closely. The Love Haters is number two in the most recent grouping of stories, which I think has a jilted theme, with Charlie from The Rom-Commers not believing in love and Cole having similar aversions to the feeling as well. I love seeing what new spin on all the romance tropes I’ll find in Center’s books; this one’s got some clever ones for sure.

Two things readers can most definitely expect in a Katherine Center rom-com are actually funny comedic parts and seriously emotionally hard-hitting aspects. While Emma has to lie to keep her job (she can’t really swim) and suffer a notoriously grumpy and video-resistant film subject in the meantime. Though Cole has a bristly exterior, he seems to be a giant softie to everyone else, especially the older ladies who hang out at the pool, his aunt, and his giant ninny dog. The irony made comedic gold and the dog took the cake.

Characters in Center books are no less awesome, and usually the side characters have some serious appeal that threatens to overshadow the mains, which happened here in spades. Cole’s aunt needs her own book or something, and I need an origin story of ninny dog in the form of a picture book stat.

Just about everything about this book tugged on the heartstrings. If Katherine Center keeps writing, I’ll gladly take regular breaks from SFF books to come back to the real world. But just for a bit. I must be about my magical business.

My thanks to Macmillan Audio and St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley for the DRC and ALC, for which I willingly give my own, honest opinion.

I was lucky enough to receive this ARC through NetGalley. It will be released on May 20, 2025. I had already read two other Katherine Center books, "The Rom-Commers" and "Hello Stranger", and I really enjoyed both of them. This book was right on par with both of those.

Katie and Hutch were incredibly likable characters, although Hutch might be a little too perfect (not that there's anything wrong with a great book boyfriend). While one man is perfect, we can all predict that his brother will NOT be. Katie goes on a journey of self-discovery while in Florida, doing something that many women need to do...learning to accept herself and apologizing to herself for being so negative. All the characters in the book were well-developed and there were many layers with growth of even the minor characters. They were fun and relatable.

As with all of Center's books, there is no spice. It is all story and character development, making it for a wonderful and light-hearted read. The title is perfect because don't we all kind of hate love a little? LOL

In the author's notes, Center writes, "Trust me, and trust yourself: love stories are the best kind of therapy." When it comes to reading her work, she is 100% right!!

I always look forward to Center’s books because of her charming, quirky characters and unpredictable scenarios. Her stories stand out by blending romance with real-life challenges and depth.

That said, I must admit that this book didn’t wow me like some of her previous works.

First, the insta-love between Katie and Hutch felt a little rushed, even for insta-love, and the inevitable miscommunication happened too quickly. I would have appreciated more heartfelt conversations and private moments that allowed them to truly connect beyond their physical attraction. Still, Katie’s quirky, endearing nature and Hutch’s brooding charm make it impossible not to love them.

Katie’s struggles with body image were a relatable and thoughtful addition that should resonate with many readers. However, this aspect took up a significant portion of the story, and I think it could have been just as impactful with less repetition.

As for the side characters, Rue was an absolute gem—I would have loved more of Aunt Rue’s wisdom! On the other hand, Cole felt annoying and unrealistic. Even when his backstory was revealed, it didn’t evoke the emotional impact it should have. Beanie served her purpose as a character, but mainly as a vehicle for Katie to constantly express her insecurities throughout the story.

Overall, the book felt somewhat rushed, as if it was assembled quickly to meet a deadline. It lacked the refinement and cohesion that have made Center’s previous works so memorable. Nevertheless, I read the book in one sitting and enjoyed it… it just left me longing for a little bit more depth between Katie and Hutch. But I’m always eager to read Center’s books, and I can’t wait to see what she writes about next!

Thank you to @netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for the eARC, which I’ve read and reviewed voluntarily!

𝗤𝗢𝗧𝗗: What’s your opinion on miscommunicatio

Katie Vaughn, video producer, accepts a job to profile Hutch, coast guard rescue swimmer even though she cant swim in order to save her job. Not only cant she swim, she hasn't worn a bathing suit since middle school, and her insecurities about her body are only one of the obstacles in this rom com set in Key west. We have family issues between the subject of her video and his brother, who also happens to be her coworker who got her this assignment, an old boyfriend who's songs play on the radio and whose fans shame Katie on social media, and a group of lovable older ladies led by Hutch's Aunt Rue and a great Dane named George Bailey that round out the cast.

This novel has Centers usual fun cast of characters, and I really loved the character of Rue and her friends who gave this a found family element. I also enjoyed the adventure element we got toward the end, and Katies journey of self discovery and improved self worth. George Bailey was also a fun character to read as well, and any support of dog rescue in a novel gets a thumbs up from me. All in all The Love Haters in another enjoyable Rom Com from Katherine Center. Its not my favorite of hers, but I still found it a nice addition to her library.

Thank you to St martins press and net galley for an e galley of this book

Katherine Center’s books will always be automatic “Add to TBR”s for me. Her latest was cute and quirky as you would expect, but it honestly fell a little mid for me compared to some of her back catalog. Some of the added side storylines felt random and under-developed (e.g., Katie’s famous ex, her body image issues, the fake dating plot). I also found the setting and circumstances to be unique but a hair too out-there for me. All things considered, I would still recommend it to her fans and anyone looking for a light summer pool / beach read!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest feedback.

Well what started as a story that seemed like a good plot, I may have wanted to stop reading many many times. The calls with the friend were weird and not needed, the friend Cole and the relationships were weird, and the ending did not make sense.

Every time I read a novel by Katherine Center, I swear it’s my favorite of hers. This is NO different.

When I say that I had to fully slow myself down so that I could savor this book. Kate’s inner monologue had me both laughing out loud and crying at how much I related to her. I adored Hutch, Aunt Rue, the friends, THE BATHING SUIT DEBACLE. I just adored every single page of this book. Thank you, Katherine!!

Katherine Center at her best—The Love Haters is everything I wanted and more! This book had me laughing, swooning, and completely invested in Katie and Hutch’s journey from start to finish.

Katie is a mess in the most relatable way, and Hutch? Oh, I am obsessed. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic was perfection, and the found family vibes—between Hutch’s eccentric Aunt Rue, his lovable Great Dane, and the whole chaotic Key West setting—made this story even more special.

Beyond the romance, I loved how this book explored self-love in such a meaningful way. Katie’s personal growth, facing her fears, and learning to trust herself again made the story even richer. And let’s be real—Katherine Center never misses when it comes to lovable characters and heartfelt, feel-good storytelling.

Another amazing story from Katherine Center! She's quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. I absolutely loved The Bodyguard, The Rom-Commers, and Hello Stranger, so I had high expectations for this one and it absolutely did not disappoint.

The Love Haters is a delightful rom-com with everything from a nail-biting rescue mission to graceful discussions of body image and self-acceptance. The plot was paced perfectly and every aspect of the story was intentional; interludes and side quests helped us get to know Katie and Hutch on a deeper level, like watching Katie banter with her cousin on FaceTime or seeing how gentlemanly Hutch was around his aunt's group of friends. The connection between Katie and Hutch was really sweet, and I love how the author portrayed family bonds as well.

Overall, it was a great read and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves Katherine Center's other books!

3★ - A Fun and Quirky Rom-Com
This book was a lighthearted and fun read with plenty of humor and charm! I really enjoyed the witty banter, and some moments had me genuinely laughing out loud. The small-town setting and the found-family dynamic, especially with Rue, were definite highlights for me.
While the romance was a slow burn, which I love, I would have loved a bit more time seeing Katie and Hutch together as a couple. Their chemistry was great, but the timeline felt a little rushed toward the end.
Overall, it was a fun read with lighthearted rom-com and over-the-top humor! Can't wait to read Katherine's future books <3
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC!

This was easily one of my most anticipated releases of 2025, and I’m so happy to say that I loved it.

One of my favorite things about Katherine Center is the way she tells a story. Her writing makes it feel like you’re catching up with a friend over a cup of coffee as she shares her latest adventure. She has such a talent for pulling you right into the character’s world, and I truly felt like I was living in Katie’s life alongside her.

I adored both of the main characters, as well as many of the secondary ones—everyone had a purpose in the story and contributed to its depth. The connection between Katie and Hutch felt so authentic, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning. Their banter, support for each other, and undeniable chemistry had me kicking my feet and grinning like an idiot. And, of course, the lovable fluffy dog was just the cherry on top.

While this didn’t quite give me that five-star feeling, I truly loved it. There’s something so comforting about reading a Katherine Center book—you know there will be moments of heaviness, but she’ll guide you through them with warmth, humor, and hope, leading you to the rainbow on the other side.

4.5 stars!!! Katherine Center never lets me down with mixing light humor and difficult topics, but in a way that feels like a hug. I finished this book in one sitting. As always, thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

I love Katherine Center!!! This book was truly fantastic! Great characters, and a great story- I have no complaints!! The main characters, Katie and Hutch are remarkable. Shining a light on the US Coast Guard rescue swimmers is a theme I've never read before. It was so interesting. And Katie could be me!! Except for the famous ex, many things she's done, I've done as well. I loved her whole arc!! Hutch seems like a guys guy - he's heroic, buff, and a bit emotional. And finally Rue. She's the aunt that we all want!! This book was so freakin good!!!

It's a thin line between love and love-hating.

This book was so cute! Loved the tension and banter between Katie and Hutch! The last few chapters were my favorite. They were exciting and heartwarming. I loved all the side characters including the dog! This was a beautiful story filled with humor and love!

Read if you enjoy:
💘forced proximity
☀️grumpy sunshine
💼workplace romance
🎭family drama
🐶 animal sidekick
📍Key West, FL

“𝐈𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬, 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬.”

My first Katherine Center read and the best way to sum up my thoughts is…meh. The writing and pacing were fine, but I wasn’t super absorbed by the plot. I did finish the book and within a reasonable a timeframe.

The relationship between the main characters didn’t feel realistic and even a little rushed. Also, I can appreciate the body positivity representation in this book, however it felt awkward, forced, and far-fetched. I’m beginning to wonder if maybe I’m the love hater?! 🤔

The world is such a better place with Katherine Center in it. Her novels are sweet, kind, quirky in all the best ways and her characters are so loveable.

Love Haters brings together the video producer Katie, the Coast Guard rescue, Hutch, and the loveliest dog and aunt ever! It is full of love and color and joy and as always, relatable human conditions and quirks. You know that things are going to work out for these characters, you're rooting for them the whole time and you cheer loudly in the end even though you knew it was coming.

Along the way you scold them, you cheer for them, you laugh at them and you shake your head at their silliness. And then there's the author's note and you fall in love all over again. As I said Katherine Center is a gift.

The audio and ebook of this are equally enjoyable and it's extra perfect when you get to go back and forth like I did.

with gratitude to netgalley, Macmillan Audio and St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review