Hate to Love You

Hate to Love You by Ava Olsen puts a different twist on the workplace romance trope. Oliver is an ex-vet working as a bodyguard for Dax, a young actor at risk from a crazed ex-boyfriend (now stalker) Devon. Jon is the private investigator hired to work the case, much to Oliver's concern. The pair have been circling each other for nine months (having both featured in the previous book by Ava Olsen Unforgettable You). They are constantly provoking each other, and both begin to realise on this latest their banter is born from intense interest in one another. The question is whether working together and becoming involved is going to work for these two strong characters.

I loved the interplay between the two characters. Things got pretty intense quickly, if you overlooked they had known each other and worked in close quarters for the previous 9 months. They had experienced alot of in their lives, so it was a case of 'when you know you know'. The source of their disagreement was a small issue I thought, given their area of work, and their roles? Upon reflection this needed to be more significant to really have these two pushed in opposite directions and at adds. I also struggle with kidnapping plots these days but it made for some interesting suspense.

I enjoyed this one with the characters more robust than Unforgettable You. I think Mason and Dax are due for a an epilogue as well.

Ava Olsen has mastered the Novella. She manages to not only bring the relationships to life and provide them with enough backstory to feel attached to them, but also complex storylines that let the characters shine, grow, and feel believable.

Oliver and Jon are no different. Granted we met them in Unforgettable You, and though this one can be read independently, I highly recommend reading it first. You get to experience the bickering and tension that leads to this one. Trust me, you will be even more satisfied with their happy end if you do. It also makes it feel less insta-lovey.

Alas, I really enjoy these two. The bickering and pushing of each others buttons is highly enjoyable, and watching them push past their fiery barbs, past their walls, and give in is very pleasurable.

I also enjoy the suspense/drama of the Bodyguard theme, so I can’t wait to read more. Especially if it involves grumpy Mason getting a little gooey for someone!