Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Hello friends! I just finished The Love Haters by Katherine Center, and I have to tell you, this book is an absolute delight from start to finish. If you’re looking for a feel-good, closed-door romance this book is for you. It’s packed with charm, heart, and just the right amount of humor. If you are looking for a book to read this summer this one definitely deserves a spot on your summer reading list. Katherine Center never fails to deliver stories that feel both comforting and uplifting, and The Love Haters is no exception.

This story centers on Ms. Katie Vaughn, a video producer whose career is suddenly on the line when her boss starts firing somewhere between 1/3 to 1/2 of the employees. Katie’s last chance? Profile Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson, a heroic Coast Guard rescue swimmer who just happens to be the most scientifically good-looking man she’s ever met. There’s a catch, of course, our dear Katie can’t swim, but she’s not about to let that little detail ruin this potential job-saving opportunity. Add in the fact that Hutch is her supervisor, Cole’s brother, and you’ve got a recipe for plenty of awkward, hilarious, and heartwarming moments, especially when Cole shows up in the Keys.

What I loved most about this book is how it takes familiar rom-com tropes and breathes new life into them. There are swim lessons, helicopter rescues, conga lines, and even a hurricane, but at its core, The Love Haters is about so much more than romance. It’s about facing your fears, learning to love yourself, one little finger or mouth at a time, and being brave enough to tell the truth-even when it’s hard. Katie’s journey is incredibly relatable, especially as she navigates body image struggles and the lingering effects of her toxic ex. Watching her find her confidence, with the help of a lovable rescue dog, George Bailey, and a cast of quirky supporting characters like Rue, it was very enjoyable.

This was a novel outside of my norm and if you’re someone who prefers your romance on the sweet side, you’ll be happy to know this book is very much closed-door. There’s plenty of chemistry and a few swoon-worthy moments, but nothing spicy or explicit. The focus is on the emotional connection, friendship, and self-acceptance, making it a perfect pick for readers who want all the feels without the spicy open-door scenes.

The pace is a little slow at the beginning but before you know it, you’ll find yourself laughing, tearing up, and rooting for Katie every step of the way. And don’t skip the author’s note at the end, Katherine Center’s reflections on love and storytelling are the perfect ending to this novel. I don’t want to spoil it, but you may tear up a little.

So my friends, if you love stories about second chances, self-discovery, and the many ways love can surprise you, The Love Haters is a must-read. I got this book from Netgalley in exchange for my review, but I would highly recommend it for anyone who wants a charming, low-spice romance with a big heart. This one gets 5 stars from me.

This Book comes out on May 20, 2025. So act now to add to your TBR, just in time for your summer reading list. Happy reading!