A charming, easy read—but not especially memorable

Katherine Center always delivers when it comes to sharp banter, lovable characters, and heartwarming romance, and The Love Haters is no exception. I enjoyed the book overall and the writing is clean and engaging, the storyline is easy to follow, and the chemistry between the characters kept me turning the pages.

That said, it didn’t quite stand out. While I appreciated the humor and the emotional beats, it felt like a story I’ve read before. There weren’t many surprises, and the plot followed a familiar arc without taking any risks. It was pleasant, but not particularly impactful.

Still, fans of Center’s work will enjoy the warmth and wit she’s known for, even if this one doesn't leave a lasting impression. A good read for when you're in the mood for something comforting and fun.

Whew. This book was a lot. Katherine Center is one of my favorite authors and this story had her signature warmth, wit, and slow-burn romance. 💖 I adored the setting (hello, Key West 🏖️), and the characters were beautifully developed—yes, even the dog stole my heart. 🐾
That said, there’s a strong focus on body image and self-love that caught me off guard. As someone who's struggled with body acceptance, some parts hit a little too close—and I do think a content warning would’ve helped. 💭
Still, this is a heartfelt, brave romance about learning to tell the truth, face your fears, and open your heart again. Don’t let critical reviews scare you off—just go in prepared. 💌
💕 Katherine Center remains a queen of romance for me.

Katherine Center hits another one out of the park with this story! Katie and Hutch are one of the best romance duos I have ever come across. I can’t get over how well written their story is, and how deeply I got immersed in their characters. I felt every emotion right along with Katie, I smiled with her highs and gasped and worried with her through her lows. These were definitely two characters I rooted for every step of the way, they were such good people you had to believe it would work out! I really enjoyed all of the interesting characters sprinkled in, especially Rue who tied all of their story lines together. 10 out of 10 loved this one!

Katherine Center is a gem of an author. So it’s no surprise that I liked this one. It felt very summer fun with enough going on to keep it not too carefree of a read too. Can’t wait for her next one!!

Thank you @macmillanaudio for the gifted audiobook! Thank you SMP for the eARC! The Love Haters by Katherine Center is a perfect summer read! Katherine Center's writing is always so engaging. Her characters are emotional and realized. I feel that I've been more connected with the character of Katie and her journey than any other of Katherine Center's protagonists.
Body image is something l've always struggled with and to see it represented and handled realistically (and with great care) was particularly important and resonated with me.
The cast of characters in this book is excellent. I loved Katie, her best friend Beanie, Hutch 9, & of course Rue was a gem.
Although as a big dog lover, George Bailey may be my favorite. This book is full of heart and laughs, but also handled dealt with grief and pain. I thoroughly enjoyed the love story between Katie and Hutch, it's so clear that they're a good fit and I enjoyed their relationship so much. I had a hard time putting this one down as I enjoyed it so thoroughly! A perfect beach read, a very cute summer romance and my favorite of Katherine Center's works so far. Highly recommend!

Katherine Center is my absolute favorite rom-com writer lately and this book was no different! I loved the premise and the little lie that the whole plot hung on. I loved the protagonist’s body image issues and her timid mess. I loved the concept of a love hater and the way she had to challenge her own impressions and beliefs. Just such a good one!

Katherine Center is a favorite of mine, and this one did not disappoint! With poignant themes about everyday struggles, whimsical adventures, past trauma, current hardships, mixed with love, color, drama, a dash of danger, and a lovable animal… this is the perfect recipe! Definitely recommend!!

“So welcome to another installment in my infinite series on why love stories can save the world.” - author’s note

I will continue to be a big fan of Katherine Center’s happy, feel-good, love story novels, with gorgeous covers, but unfortunately The Love Haters did not work for me.

There was sooo much focus Katie’s appearance, the way she dressed, and her weight. I appreciated the author’s note on this, and I understand what she was trying to do, but unfortunately it was mentioned way too often and it took me out of the story. The fake dating also felt completely unnecessary.

Again, I will read what Katherine Center writes in the future, this one just needed a bit more polishing.

Thank you St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the eARC!

I wanted to love this one a lot more than I had! It definitely felt different from our usual Katherine Center feel, there is a heavy emphasis on eating disorders right from the beginning and it was hard to navigate that from the funny moments too.

I absolutely adored this book! The characters, both human and animal, are genuine and delightful (well, except for one, but I’ll keep that a secret!).

This story masterfully weaves together humor and heartfelt moments. I found myself completely immersed, wishing it would never end. I would love to be neighbors of Katie, Hutch, George Bailey, Rue, and the Gals.

Pick up The Love Haters for a wonderful exploration of love in all its forms and a reminder that being vulnerable and taking risks can lead to unexpected rewards.

Katherine Center books are usually a hit or miss for me. However I am pleasantly surprised by Love Haters! I enjoyed reading this novel and would recommend it.

I am grateful to NetGalley, the Author, and the Publisher for the ARC. Thank you!

I loved this book! Katherine Center is an auto buy for me and this book did not disappoint! Katherine Center knows how to grip you from the very first page.

The Love Haters by Katherine Center. Pub Date: May 20, 2025. Rating: 4 stars. First off, I absolutely adore Katherine Center's novels and this one was no exception. Set in Key West, the reader is taken on a journey with a young female who gets sent there to profile a Coast Guard swimmer who happens to be her co-worker's brother. She ultimately ends of lying about not being able to swim to be able to get the scoop on this handsome man. What unravels is a tale not only of fun, but also tough themes of body image. Katherine's novels are usually lighthearted and fun and great fast reads. I enjoyed this novel. Thanks to #netgalley and #stmartinspress for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.

@katherinecenter has done it again!

Thank you @stmartinspress for my #gifted copy!

Over the past few years, I’ve become a big fan of Katherine’s books, and I was so excited to see her newest one took place in the Keys.

Katie’s career is on the line. So, when she gets the chance to head to Florida to interview Hutch, a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, for work, she jumps at the opportunity. However, Katie can’t swim and soon finds herself sucked into Hutch’s world.

I loved the shenanigans Katie got herself into. All the characters were wonderful, and I really loved the dynamic between our two love interests.

This is a fast-paced romance that would be great to binge on the beach!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#litbylillireviews

4.5 Rounded Up

I LOVE Katherine Center's books! The rapport and chemistry in her books is amazing. I love the banter - it's so entertaining. This was another hit for me. It had a lot of funny moments and some touching ones as well.

Katie is tasked by her boss to go do a feature on a Coast Guard rescue swimmer but he is not happy to see her. Things get messy and there are lots of fun side characters and crazy antics. I could see this being made into a movie - it was so fun. I read it in about 24 hours - it was so entertaining.

Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy. Opinions are my own.

Katherine Center is a one click author for me. I love the writing style and how quickly I get sucked into the story lines. This book did just that. I could not put this book down. This was a fun read.

This book had such a unique male main character! I also liked that the unlikable characters redeemed themselves in the end - that doesn't usually happen. Then the dramatic thing happening later in the book.. it was perfection. I loved it.

Delayed ARC review!

Overall I really enjoyed this book. I liked the vibes and it felt like a good, cozy summer read. There was a lot of body image things the main character, Katie, dealt with which was a lot at times and could be triggering for some readers. If you're a Katherien Center fan you will probably enjoy this!

Thank you NetGalley & St. Martin's Press for the e-ARC of "The Love Haters" by Katherine Center, Out Now!

Thank you to Katherine Center, Netgalley, & st Martin's publishing for this fantastic read! Every book by this author that I have read,I have enjoyed so far.

Katie wants to save her job so she agrees to go to the Florida Keys to film a story about Hutch. Little does she know that she is walking into a life changing experience! Hutch is a Coast Guard search and rescue diver stationed in the Florida Keys. He doesn’t want to be part of the film but reluctantly agrees to do it. He and Katie get to know each other and realize that they might be a good match. But can a relationship started on a lie survive?

Katie hasn’t had great luck in the love department. I like that the author included information about Katie’s former boyfriend to show how her past relationships keep messing with her. She has dreams that don’t necessarily include her current job. I like that once she takes on the assignment of interviewing Hutch, she throws herself into fully (except for keeping secrets). There is a part of the story that stuck out to me because it’s so true. The internet is mean to Katie and it affects her confidence. In the end, she has to learn about loving herself and following her dreams.

Hutch has no desire to be famous (again) but he agrees to do the interview because he was made certain promises. I like that Hutch’s prior brush with fame left him with the moniker “pup daddy”. Hutch has to navigate some complex family issues during the story. I like how he has his family he was born with and the family he has made on the islands. He’s a really good dude.

Katie and Hutch have to work through a lot to end up together. I thought the journey was fun and believable. They make a good couple with solid communication in the end.

This story takes place in the Florida Keys. Both characters are adults with careers. There is family drama and fun older ladies. This is a sweet and slightly silly love story between two people who have learned to hate love. I will definitely read more from this author in the future.