3.5 rounded up - thank you so much to Netgalley, Donna Marchetti, and Harper Collins for the e-arc. All reviews are my own & left voluntarily.

Hate Mail was such a fun and fast read! I really liked the chemistry between the FMC & MMC.

I did think the letters were a little over the top at times, but given the ages they were - it made sense.

The “climax” was a little dramatic lol, but overall this was a good read!

Thank you NetGalley for the E-arc in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a cute, fun read that had me laughing, swooning and nearly crying while I was reading it. I really enjoyed the dual timeline and how Naomi and Luka’s story is told. Sometimes it felt a bit jarring jumping from Naomi travelling to different states looking for any clue she can find of Luka, and then in Luka’s POV telling an absolutely gut-wrenching story. But still really enjoyed this story and looking forward to reading more from this author!

Okay....this book really tickled my fancy. It was so stinking cute. The evolution of the letters as well as the jumps from the past to the present were all just wonderful little touches that really made this so enjoyable. I don't even know if I could all this enemies to lovers, because we all know that they weren't being mean to each other because they actually hated one another. While I absolutely adored this book, I will say that I wasn't a major fan of the act 3 conflict. I won't lie, I kind of saw it coming (but wondered how it would actually be pulled off), but the way that it ended up going down and then the eventual resolution just felt a bit rushed? I don't even know if that's the right word. This is a me issue though cause I usually find myself getting the that sense of "meh" from miscommunication in books. I will say though, that was the ONLY thing that I wasn't a fan of. Overall though, loved this book and definitely recommend this to everyone. Big thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review

I really wanted to like this book but unforunately this fell really flat for me. I don't know how else to describe the writing style other than clunky, there was just no smooth flow and it was a lot of telling not showing if that makes sense. I also sensed the twist almost immediately which kinda let me down. Also the letters weren't even like funny mean they were just downrigth CRUEL like they were talking about each other getting murdered all the time

"Hate Mail" by Donna Marchetti is a charming and witty tale of pen-pal rivals turned unlikely friends, filled with humor, heart, and unexpected twists.

Naomi and Luca's correspondence begins in fifth grade as a battle of insults and snarky remarks, but over the years, their exchanges evolve into a unique friendship that spans coasts and decades. Marchetti expertly captures the dynamic between Naomi and Luca, infusing their letters with sharp wit, playful banter, and underlying warmth.

The novel takes an intriguing turn when Naomi suddenly stops receiving letters from Luca, leaving her puzzled and longing for closure. When a new envelope arrives out of the blue, Naomi is determined to reconnect with her pen-pal and unravel the mystery behind their sudden silence.

Marchetti's storytelling is engaging and fast-paced, with each chapter unfolding new layers of Naomi and Luca's relationship. From their childhood antics to their adult lives, the characters are vividly depicted, each with their quirks and vulnerabilities. Readers will find themselves rooting for Naomi as she navigates the ups and downs of friendship, love, and self-discovery.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the power of words and the transformative nature of human connection. Through Naomi and Luca's letters, Marchetti highlights the cathartic release of expressing oneself honestly, even in the midst of playful rivalry. Their correspondence serves as a poignant reminder of the impact we can have on each other's lives, even from a distance.

While "Hate Mail" is a lighthearted and humorous read, it also delves into deeper themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the importance of communication in maintaining meaningful relationships. Marchetti strikes a perfect balance between humor and heartfelt moments, keeping readers entertained while also tugging at their heartstrings.

In conclusion, "Hate Mail" is a delightful and uplifting novel that will leave readers with a smile on their faces and warmth in their hearts. Donna Marchetti's witty dialogue, engaging characters, and touching storyline make this book a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction and romantic comedies alike.Title: Hate Mail

Author: Donna Marchetti

Rating: 4/5

"Hate Mail" by Donna Marchetti is a charming and witty tale of pen-pal rivals turned unlikely friends, filled with humor, heart, and unexpected twists.

Naomi and Luca's correspondence begins in fifth grade as a battle of insults and snarky remarks, but over the years, their exchanges evolve into a unique friendship that spans coasts and decades. Marchetti expertly captures the dynamic between Naomi and Luca, infusing their letters with sharp wit, playful banter, and underlying warmth.

The novel takes an intriguing turn when Naomi suddenly stops receiving letters from Luca, leaving her puzzled and longing for closure. When a new envelope arrives out of the blue, Naomi is determined to reconnect with her pen-pal and unravel the mystery behind their sudden silence.

Marchetti's storytelling is engaging and fast-paced, with each chapter unfolding new layers of Naomi and Luca's relationship. From their childhood antics to their adult lives, the characters are vividly depicted, each with their quirks and vulnerabilities. Readers will find themselves rooting for Naomi as she navigates the ups and downs of friendship, love, and self-discovery.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the power of words and the transformative nature of human connection. Through Naomi and Luca's letters, Marchetti highlights the cathartic release of expressing oneself honestly, even in the midst of playful rivalry. Their correspondence serves as a poignant reminder of the impact we can have on each other's lives, even from a distance.

While "Hate Mail" is a lighthearted and humorous read, it also delves into deeper themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the importance of communication in maintaining meaningful relationships. Marchetti strikes a perfect balance between humor and heartfelt moments, keeping readers entertained while also tugging at their heartstrings.

In conclusion, "Hate Mail" is a delightful and uplifting novel that will leave readers with a smile on their faces and warmth in their hearts. Donna Marchetti's witty dialogue, engaging characters, and touching storyline make this book a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction and romantic comedies alike.

First all thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read this amazing book in exchange for an honest review.

Naomi and Luca have known each other as pen pals since the fifth grade and not your typical pen pal exchange but one where there’s constant vitriol, one upmanship and somehow weaving in a friendship dynamic that stood the test of time (decades). Until one day two years ago the letters stop and none of them know why. Then Naomi had one out of the blue at her work… and so the game begins.

I went in not expecting to be completely blown away- I LOVE this book. The pacing was amazing and the way the story unfolded with dual povs (in this book it worked!). Granted one of the plot twists I could see a mile off but the emotional journey, humour and slow burn romance was well worth getting there.

Definitely one to try if you like a cute and funny romance.

Thanks to Net Galley and One More Chapter for my advanced copy!

This book was so unique! I loved the twist on the classic “mistaken identity” trope, and Donna managed it in a fun and flirty new way. I was entertained the whole time, trying to see how Naomi and Luca would get theirselves out of the pickles they’ve created. Pun intended. This is definitely a book. I can see myself rereading, knowing what I know at the end I think that would make it an even more enjoyable experience.

Dnf @ 38% + skimmed from there to the end


Plot: Naomi and Luca have been pen-pals since fifth-grade. Well, more like bitter rivals caught in an epic battle of insults and verbal jousting... But what starts as a hilarious chain of hate filled letters, slowly develops into a friendship spanning coasts and years. That is until one day, years later, when the letters suddenly stop. It’s been two years since Naomi last heard from Luca. Two years since the letter that changed everything. But when a new envelope turns up out of the blue at her desk at the local news station, Naomi is determined not to let Luca have the final word.


I really wanted to love this book because of the tropes and the cute cover but it was unfortunately not for me. All the characters were bland and the inclusion of the love triangle - which was not mentioned in the blurb - made the story feel contrived and very juvenile.


The letters were neither 'hilarious' nor featured 'epic insults'. They felt weird, especially since the letters never changed and remained tactless even as they themselves aged. Naomi's friend Anne was annoying and obnoxious to the point it was painful to read about. It was also not a slow-burn and the relationship between Jake (I can not find any mention of a 'Jake' in the premise) and Naomi was such an insta lust/love that it made me want to physically gag.


By around 30% I had already figured out the big plot twist. I skimmed through the rest of the book hoping for it to get better but it didn't. I also love the pen-pals/letters trope which makes it even more unfortunate that I didn't enjoy this book.


However, if you do enjoy a very predictable contemporary then you may enjoy this for a palette cleanser romance. I do realise that I seem to hold an unpopular opinion in terms of this book, so you may feel differently about this if you do decide to give it a go.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for my honest thoughts!

4 stars

This book was simultaneously so cute and so frustrating.
Let’s start with the letters: I thought the letters were hilarious! This was truly hate mail. Like, these children were nightmares to each other but I found it so enjoyable. Especially once you learn more about them and see the progression of their relationship through the letters
The relationship: I thought the relationship between them as adults was really cute. Luca is a sweetie and I love all the foster animals
The best friend: Anne started off okay but she just became so pushy and disrespectful and not really annoyed me. I felt like she was not a very good friend to Naomi.
The miscommunication: y’all… what in the actual heck was up with the miscommunication in this book. It was like levels and levels of “how could you think this would end well” both main characters made truly the worst decisions without good reason and I do not support it

Somehow I still ended up enjoying this book but it is a hot mess, wild ride. If that’s your thing definitely give this book a shot, you just might like it!

Thank you to NetGalley amd One More Chapter for the ARC!!

This was a bit similar to you've got mail... but the whole sending hate letters to each other almost kind of reminded me of the miscommunication trope, just in a new form. I had guessed the twist very early on and this kind of made it frustrating to me with the repetitive nature of the novel. But I did really enjoy the characters and would have loved to see more development of the side characters.

This was the perfect enemies to lovers escape read. It's not hard to piece things together, but I loved watching it play out to the reveal.

Naomi and Luca were forced to be penpals through a class project. While Naomi loved the idea, Luca hated it. What followed was a string of 'put down' letters always ending in Love Naomi or Love Luca. Long after the rest of the class had dropped their letters, they still carried on.

The letters were really funny and had me laughing out loud. The backstory of Luca was quite emotional. This is a fun, lighthearted romance with a dash of spice, and I absolutely loved it.

Thank you to Netgalley, author, and publisher for an arc copy of this book.

Hate mail follows two main characters who have been pen pals since the 5th grade. Now that they’re both adults with their own lives, they find each other when they least expect it.

Definitely worth checking out!

Sometimes the stars really do align. This predictably cute plot took all the right turns while managing to keep me fully invested in the outcome of the story! There were just enough shifts between the two main character’s point of views to be intriguing, but not over done. I flew through this read in about 48 hours because I couldn’t wait to see what letters came next; that was the most exciting part to me. The author really took the time to tie little bits and pieces together over the span of the story, so at the end, everything felt complete. Short and sweet feel good read, with just the right amount of romantic details to make you blush!

Naomi and Luca have known one another since 5th grade when they became pen pals. They have exchanged letters over the years well into their adulthood. Then the letters stopped. It's been two years since Naomi has heard from Luca that is until she receives a letter at work. Naomi immediately knows the letter is from Luca but there is no return address. Resulting in Naomi making it her mission to find Luca especially since he continues to send her letters and she is unable to respond.

However like all good love stories another character makes their entrance complicating things. They chemistry is through the roof!

Hate Mail is told via the point of view of each character giving you great insight into what they think and feel. The letters are hilariously and quirky. This is such a fun and easy romcom to read. If you need a light read this is a perfect book for you. Their is a high level of predictability but that doesn't take away form the book.

“This man can’t possibly be this perfect. Fosters kittens, heals sick dolphins, and has a body built like a Greek god?”

Okay, so this book had me legit LOL-ing so hard that I had to screenshot Naomi and Lucas's letters and send them to my besties and hubby. Anne is seriously the ultimate BFF goals, and I'm totally crossing my fingers for a spin-off about her! But back to the main event—this book is hilarious and totally charming. It's a definite pre-order for me, hitting shelves on March 14th! And can we talk about enemies-to-lovers done right? Naomi and Luca's banter is next level! Can't wait for everyone to read it! 📚💕

Synopsis:
Naomi and Luca have been trading insults since fifth grade, but their rivalry slowly morphs into an epic long-distance friendship through their letters. When the letters suddenly stop, Naomi's determined to have the last word when a surprise envelope appears on her desk, sparking a new chapter in their story.

Thank you so much @netgalley 🩷🩵💜
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this was exactly the fluffy romcom i wanted for valentine's day.

luca and naomi are childhood "penemies" to lovers, as donna marchetti coined the term herself lol. their letters to each other were hilarioussss i was cackling. it was a really interesting weaving of letters, past POV, and present time to figure out their whole story. it was super sweet and funny and even some emotional moments for luca's backstory.

this was one of my fav contemp reads so far this year!

an honest arc review <3

This is such a cute romance read! I really like the premise of the story and I find myself giggling while reading this book 🤭

Naomi has a pen-pal. She has been writing to Luca since they were in fifth grade up until 2 years ago. That is because every letter that she sent has been returned to her and she has no idea where Luca is right now. But when one day she received a letter from Luca at her workplace, along with Anne, her best friend, she has decided she will find out where he is. She will not let him have the final word.

This book, had me giggling so much because the banter between the main characters were unmatched 🤭 they went back and forth insulting each other in the letters they wrote and it was just too funny. I really liked the idea of the book! If anyone has read this book and knows of any other books that has similar vibes, let me know!

I love the characters and the side characters! Would love to know more about Caitlin and Luca’s interaction. But, Naomi and Luca are such good characters you can never hate them. Luca is honestly such a good book boyfriend, he’s definitely one of my favourites. Also, Anne is honestly the best best-friend ever! I love her character

Overall, I would really recommend this book for anyone who wants to read romance with funny banters and a light story. It is a bit spicy but I don’t really mind it that much. If you have this book on your tbr, let me know! Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Debut novel from Donna Marchetti! Looking forward to future works of hers as I read this in nearly one sitting (and stayed up well past my bedtime to see it through).
3.75 ⭐️

Dual POV/Timelines
Childhood penpals
Stalker Rom-Com
Miscommunication

TW: parent abandoning family, parent death from cancer (semi off page).

A decades old snail mail battle that started in 5th grade between Oklahoman Naomi and Californian Lucas. Ugh. Love me an enemies to lovers. Or in this case, a penemies to lovers.

Unexpected: Oh wow, this is dark. Their letters are not fluffy, but mean spirited through and through.

The letters stop when Luca gets engaged. After 2 years of radio silence, a letter is delivered to the news station. Enthusiastic assistant, Anne, thinks it’s fan mail for their up and coming meteorologist/weather woman, but there’s no return address.

While the letters keep trickling in, Naomi continues to date her neighbor Jake, even though she is torn between the man in front of her and the man she has fantasized about for years. Her and Anne travel the US trying to find Luca - his childhood home in CA, his Marine Corps base in GA, and home purchased with his fiancé/wife in TX.

Can Naomi move past the idea of Luca to move forward with Jake?

What kept this from being a 5 star read for me:

The hole in the story that bothers me with a letter without a return address is seeing where it was stamped. What is the closest sorting center?! (58% in and Anne finally brings it up!)

Anne, assistant at the news/weather station, is uncomfortably obsessed with Naomi’s sex life with her neighbor Jake.

The lying. I’ll leave it at that.

Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter/Harper Collins for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Hate Mail is a fun, witty, highly enjoyable rom-com. I had such a great time reading it, and couldn’t help but smile at the banter and feel that sense of hope and longing that comes along with any good rom-com.

Donna Marchetti’s debut novel features Naomi and Luca, who first became pen pals on a school assignment in fifth grade. After receiving his first letter from Naomi, Luca writes back an acerbic response that leads to a back and forth where each tries to outdo the other in their letter’s meanness. The two remain pen pals for years - through middle and high school, college and the military, and into adulthood - until suddenly Luca stops responding. Two years later, Naomi receives a letter from Luca out of the blue, but this time with no return address. While balancing a crush on her neighbor and her job as a meteorologist, Naomi decides to try to track down Luca with the help of her best friend Anne. She’s led on a goose chase all over the country, starting with Luca’s original home address in San Diego to the military base he was stationed at in Georgia, to the home of his ex-fiancée in Dallas. Naomi has her own bird in the hand vs. two in the bush scenario as she struggles to decide between continuing on her search to find Luca or focusing on her budding relationship with her neighbor.

While I felt the “twist” in this book was a bit predictable, I didn’t mind in the least. The repartee in the letters between Naomi and Luca is masterfully done. It’s clear that the two are flirting in the most sarcastic, sardonic way. This book feels like “You’ve Got Mail” but with a bit of a role reversal - instead of a contentious relationship in real life, there’s one in letters, and instead of a budding relationship in letters, there’s one in real life. It was such an entertaining, joyful read. I highly recommend this book if you’re a fan of dual POV, which is done very well here using Luca’s POV to fill in gaps in the history between Naomi and Luca. I’m utterly impressed by Marchetti’s debut and can’t wait to see what she writes in the future!

Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK, and One More Chapter for the ARC of this book!

This was a fun enemies to lovers read. I figured out almost immediately the identity of her pen pal but that just made me want to read faster. Whilst this wasn't a profound read, it was light hearted and fun, with the tiniest sprinkling of spice. It was fun to read a guy who was so into the heroine and I enjoyed reading the letters between the two of them.