Thank you Net Galley and St. Martins Press for the ARC. This is by far one of my favorite Katherine Center books. This follows Katie who’s a videographer from Texas and Hutch who’s a rescue swimmer for the US Coast Guard and also the brother of her manager, who doesn’t have the best relationship with him. Wild.

It was full of twists, although I’m not sure if all of them were needed. This book made me laugh and cry and took me through the motions. It had me engaged the whole time.

This story in my opinion had 3 love stories. It was very relatable for me how Katie felt about her body image which I really appreciated the dialogue especially in this era of social media.

The Love Haters is a quick little read, but it misses some of the charm and lovable characters I expect from Katherine Center.

What I enjoyed:

* The setting. It’s not quite “another character” as the review girlies like to say, but the Florida Keys seems appealing and welcoming and a great setting for this story.

* The plot is bananas in a mostly enjoyable way. It might bother me from another writer, but wild plots are what I know to expect from Katherine Center.

* Aunt Rue. She’s a hoot, arguably the best character. I wanted more of her and the gals.

What I didn’t like:

* FMC Katie. She’s all over the place and her insecurities feel kind of unearned. This is no shade to people’s body issues, but she might be 20lbs “overweight” if I did the math right toward the end. Her remarkable lack of confidence about wearing a swimsuit feel especially odd to this actual plus-sized reader. Plus, the multiple pages discussing her eating disorder including the foods she ate to keep her calorie count below 1000 a day is far too detailed. I don’t know why we need a blueprint for disordered eating.

* MMC “Hutch” Hutcheson. He comes across as vanilla and underbaked. I wanted something else from him: more intensity, more depth, less discussion of Katie’s eyes, and LESS having to tell her he found her attractive. More showing, less telling please.

* The romance isn’t believable. The chemistry is lacking and is stunted by Katie’s body issues and self-doubt, especially since we are experiencing everything from Katie’s perspective. That I didn’t sense any real steam between the two is a huge miss.

* The dog. My god. If I had a dog scarring my chest and knocking me off balance even once, I wouldn’t be back for more or at least would insist on his owner handling him. I know it’s supposed to be comedic and cute, but dang Hutch, control your humongous dog.

In the end, many elements feel underdeveloped and odd. Katherine Center doesn’t write bad books as a rule, it’s true, but this feels kind of phoned in to me. Will I be back for more from this author? Yes, probably, hoping she somehow taps into the magic of The Bodyguard again.

"I'm saying that when I'm not with you, I'm thinking about you. And waiting to see you again. And we've spent all day, every day together for weeks now—and it already feels like it'll never be enough."

kindness and heroism and sacrifice. the best kind of love stories are never just about romantic love (from the back matter).

✨THINGS AND STUFF✨
-key west, fl
-she’s profiling him
-rescue swimmer
-his main hobby is frowning
-body image
-george bailey the great dane
-jumping out of helicopters and blowing bubbles
-he notices her eyes and refines the color 🥹
-hilariously funny!
-forced proximity
-the conga
-#IsThisAKissingBook closed door.

thank you st martin’s press for the advanced copy!

The two main characters Katie and Hutch were very likeable and engaging. How their relationship unfolded in the Key West was very well thought out and was filled with some hilarious moments. It is all the added nonsense and drama that took away what could have been an excellent book. It felt like middle school/high school drama and added scenes that were not needed. Also, the heavy topic of body imaging, although needed in this time and age, did not flow well with the overall romance comedy of the book.

Thanks NetGalley and St Martin's Press for the ARC.

Thank you to NetGallery and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC of The Love Haters. I always enjoy books by Katherine Center and this was no exception! The premise that the FMC could not swim and was asked to do a promo video for the Coast Guard was what hooked me from the jump. I loved how the book and the relationships played out. The relationship with one’s self, the romantic relationship, the found family, and everything in between. A very enjoyable read!

This book is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and self-discovery! Katie Vaughn’s adventure as a non-swimmer profiling a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in paradise is both hilarious and heartfelt. The dynamic between Katie and Hutch crackles with tension and charm, while the quirky supporting characters, like Aunt Rue and a rescue Great Dane, add so much fun. The story’s twists—swim lessons, stolen kisses, and hurricanes—kept me hooked until the very end. A perfect escape that reminds us all to be brave and embrace life’s chaos!

4.5 ⭐️

Here's an interesting and unnecessary fact about myself: I can't swim to save my life. Not a stroke, not a single dog paddle. I can't even float or hold my breath underwater for one beautiful second, for crying out loud! Luckily for me, Katie Vaughn has the same predicament when her co-worker, Cole, comes to her with a proposition to save her job as a video producer: profile Tom "Hutch" Hutcheson, who just so happens to be a Coast Guard rescue swimmer. How hard can it be?

According to how hard and fast life throws lemons at an individual (which is pretty hard and pretty fast, by the way), it can be difficult to do your job when you have to omit certain truths and tell lies about yourself when you're in the presence of a good (I'm not using that word lightly), unbelievably attractive man who hates love but loves saving people. But Katie takes on the challenge. She, too, is a hater of love after she'd been burned by it, so this should be a piece of cake, right?

Nope. Wrong! Katie finds herself falling for the love-hating Hutch, bonding with his colorful and amazing Aunt Rue, and somehow earning the trust of Hutch's Great Dane, all while trying to juggle her lies and learn to love herself for who she is: Katie Vaughn.

This book made me laugh and smile a lot & it kept me up at night reading it! I truly enjoyed Katherine Centers' humor and style of writing. The dialogue was engaging, funny, and easy to read. The plot was--whew--keeping me on the edge of my seat. The characters were relatable, realistic, and enjoyable (except for one and he knows who he is 😏😉) and the setting was PERFECT for the story! And the romance was cute. Katie was so funny and actually cared about what she was doing wrong and right. Some FMC's nowadays don't take responsibility or accountability for their actions, which is irritating, so Katie's character was a breath of fresh air. Hutch was a sweetheart and it made my heart swell to read about a guy who wants to do the right thing for everyone, especially for those he loves. Did he take it too far sometimes? Maybe, we applaud him anyway because it's Hutch and Hutch is a good guy. Put these two awesome people together and you've got yourself a solid (not perfect) relationship.

However, I didn't swoon over their romance as I thought I would. The writing was more telling than showing. When there's an instance of Hutch actually *being* a sweet, nice guy, I was hooked. But once it got to Katie telling me he was a nice guy, I thought, "Okay. Prove it." Also, I wish there was more depth between Katie and Hutch's relationship so I could fully appreciate their romance. It seemed almost rushed and underdeveloped. But, hey. It was fun to read. I didn't find it repulsive, stupid, or unrealistic. It was...sweet. ☺️

Here's what I took away from the book:
Do what is right. Be kind to everyone, including yourself. Good people exist. Tell the truth. Learn to swim.

I found myself relating to Katie more than I thought I would since I somewhat distrust modern romances. But this one hit so close to home. She struggles with her body image and can't seem to love who she is as a person. It's difficult to accept who you are when social media and society have "norms" of who people should try to be. But let's face it: all we can do is be who we are.

I know, I know. It's easier said than done. I have problems accepting it. But here's the undeniable and inevitable truth we all need to learn and ingrain into our souls: You are you. I am me. You deserve every good thing in this life, oh weary traveler of the world. Be kind to yourself. Love yourself for who you are and pat yourself on the back when you change something that needs to be addressed. Life is hard and it sucks sometimes. And some people are the same way, unfortunately. But that's between them and God. Just remember that there is good in this crazy world. You are beautiful. You are amazing. You are loved. So laugh till your stomach hurts and tears roll down your cheeks, live life like you mean it, and love those who are there for you and genuinely care about you with your whole heart. ❤️

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the arc e-copy! All opinions and statements are my own.

Who doesn’t need to be rescued by a Katherine Center book! I was absolutely swept away by this cute romance.
I started reading this book the other night and couldn’t put it down until I finished it the next morning. When you read it, word to the wise .. start early in the day unless you want a book hangover! It was so worth it though:)
I love how KC's books allow me to escape into another setting that might not be the norm for many and gives a glimpse inside that world, creating the most fun and memorable characters along the way that I just never want to say goodbye to. Katie is a video producer that takes an assignment to draw some positive attention to her work, but this is no typical assignment and she gets herself into a bit of a pickle along with the help of her supervisor who has his own agenda. With the support of her new friends and reluctant assistance from her subject Hutch, she navigates through some choppy water as she works to complete her mission.
This is a heartfelt romcom with fun banter and minimal spice..although there are some very memorable "melt your heart" moments. Some of which involves a dog who gets himself into his share of trouble too!
The Love Haters is focused on self love and coming to terms with all of the baggage that holds you back, so you don’t miss out on the great things that pull you forward. The KC streak is alive.. another fiver! Can’t wait for what’s next. I think there is another story there with Aunt Rue! Thanks so much to St. Martins press and NetGalley for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center is one of my favorite romances ever, and I was so excited to read this one! I really loved the characters and how everything unfolded. I usually don't love books with a lot of personal issues that need resolution, but the way Center talks about it and helps her characters process their trauma was actually really nice. The cast of characters were so vibrant, and I could really picture and feel them as I read. Looking forward to more Katherine Center in the future!

Katherine Center delivers another heartwarming tale with The Love Haters, a cute story that blends romance, humor, and relatable struggles. While the storyline occasionally veers into the unlikely, the themes and emotions resonate deeply, making it a timely and engaging read.

One of the standout elements is the comedic role of George Bailey. It’s impossible not to smile at the chaos the furry companion brings to the mix.

Overall, The Love Haters is a charming, light read with heartfelt moments and a delightful cast of characters—especially the four-legged one!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review!

I loved this book - so fun to get an early copy! I have already spread the word about its up coming release to friends. I couldn’t wait to pick it up every time I sat down.

I was anticipating this book but unfortunately I was left a bit disappointed. The book setting was beautiful in the Key West and I think that was my favorite part.

The romance between Katie and Hutch didn’t feel natural to me, it didn’t feel like their feelings or their chemistry was very strong or built up well. Some chapters seemed to go on too long with how Katie was dwelling on things. Overall I’d give it a 2.5.

Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC.

When I think of mainstream romance, one of the first authors that comes to mind is Katherine Center. She is a pretty solid 3.5 stars for me , and this is that. Romance, yes. Predictabiliity - always some misunderstanding about 60% of the way through wondering if they'll end up together, yes. All that to say, it's a comfort book and if you enjoy Katherine Center's writing, you'll enjoy this new one.

*I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review*

2.5
This might be my sign to stop trying to read and enjoy Katherine Center books...I've liked 1/3 thus far (the one being The Rom-Commers).

So basically Katie is a videographer and to save her job, her boss Cole sends her to the coast to take a video of his brother Hutch, who is a Coast Guard rescue swimmer. Seems simple, right? Wrong.

I'll start with what I liked: Rue, George Bailey, and The Gals. Rue brought a fun and sunny personality to the book and I loved her! George Bailey sounded like such a sweet dog, and The Gals added some humor to the plot. I also really liked how Katie resolved her body image issues and was working toward self-love.

I had so many issues with this book. First, Katie has major body image issues from previous internet experience. This is a great problem to delve into during this book, it's the perfect setting and a great way to bring awareness/confidence to women. However, this becomes Katie's entire personality for the first half of the book. I kid you not, she freaks out about wearing a swim suit, hating her body, and having to announce her weight for over 10 pages (split up). Yes it's an important topic, yes it's a huge thing to women who struggle with it. But damn in a book this short it felt super repetitive. It would have made more sense to spread it out throughout the book, not have a ton at the start and no body image discussion in the middle/end.

The second issue I had was Cole. He comes to the coast at one point and starts spouting ridiculous lies that totally derail the plot FOR NO REASON OTHER THAN HE'S AN IDIOT.

Third, part of Cole's grand scheme to help Katie keep her job is to 1) objectify his brother and 2) stereotype his female boss as "thirsty" and play into that. What a wonderful idea that drives this entire plot! His idea is to have Katie film Hutch shirtless a bunch then convince the boss that Katie can somehow help her get Hutch...I wish I was joking...

Overall this book was not my favorite. Read it if you are by the ocean and want to dress in florals. I'll give Katherine Center one last chance with The Bodyguard and then I'm out.

Thank you to NetGalley + St. Martin's Press for the ARC!

4.5 stars – The Love Haters by Katherine Center made me laugh, make silly smiles and cry as I read. Katie and Cole work together but one, and maybe both, may lose their jobs. Cole sends Katie out to create a recruiting video for the Coast Guard featuring Cole’s brother Tom, aka Hutch. Hutch wants the video done, and really wanted his brother to be the one to take/produce it as they have been estranged for a while. Katie is not what he was expecting. I really enjoyed this story so much and hope you do too!

There are many themes in this story: fake dating, workplace romance, self-esteem/body issues, forced proximity, rescue pets (great dane and toads) strong friendships and a beach location (Key West).

A big “Thank You” to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read an advance copy. This independent, honest review is happily shared.

An amazing story about self love and conquering your fears. This book was so beautifully written. It was engaging and funny. Had me laughing at times and then smitten at others. It was emotional and captivating til the end. The characters were so memorable and I absolutely loved Hutch’s golden retriever vibes. The sweetness in how he felt for her really came through in how he took care of Katie and how he spoke to her.

Although this is a romance, it’s truly more about loving yourself.

There were dozens of great quotes in this book but this one is going to be memorable.

“We’re here to be alive. To feel the sun on our skin. To breathe deep in the wind. We’re here to feel it all. To love and cry and love some more”

Katherine Center does it once again! What a hilarious, action packed, romantic novel this was. I was laughing out loud from beginning to end. There is just something about the way she writes that hooks you from the first sentence.
This book had such a unique plot. Coast guard? A crazy boss? Set in a tropical place with old ladies who are so charming? A man with a Great Dane who has a soft spot for the main character?
The characters of this book were so wonderful. I loved each and everyone of them. The plot was addicting. I didn't want to put it down and I would NEVER have guessed how much was going to unfold by the end. While some of it may have come out of left field and made not too much sense by the end, I still loved this.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for an easy, addicting, funny read!

See my full review at http://michelleardillo.com/2025/01/14/book-review-the-love-haters-by-katherine-center/

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this, I have been a fan of several of Katherine Center's book, Everything Is Beautiful being my favorite, but I struggled a bit with this one. I loved some of the characters, Rue, The Gals, they were endearing and charming, also loved George Bailey :). My biggest frustration was at times, while I think the issue of body positivity is important, it was written so juvenile- it was enraging. The bathing suit scene alone was just exhausting, it was too much in an effort to be funny, it was just... a lot. I loved Katie and Hutch, the other character was utterly unlikeable and one big gap for me, the *scene* that tries to bridge the story, just left me wishing it was more. A better storytelling effort here would have evoked tears, and I wanted it too. This is a cute, fun read and I would recommend it for an easy beach read- it's witty and charming at times, it just missed one extra level of storytelling and emotional connection for me.

I am a big fan of Katherine Center, and The Bodyguard is still one of my all-time favorite romances. The Love Haters is a quick, fun read, but it misses some of the sparkle & charm I've come across in her other books.

Some things I enjoyed:
-The writing style. The FMC is talking to us directly, breaking the fourth wall at times. It's very conversational. I know it will bother some people, but I thought it was fun.
-The plot was silly and ridiculous and MESSY. Another thing that I can see really bothering people, but I had a good time.
- Rue, The Gals, and the dog, George Bailey

Some things that bothered me:
- I wasn't a huge fan of the FMC. Her choices rarely made much sense to me.
- I also wasn't a huge fan of the MMC. I can't say much without spoiling the ending, but lets just say I wanted more emotion from him.
- The romance wasn't believable. It was more telling than showing, and I didn't see any chemistry. Give me some angst! Some yearning!

Ultimately, so many aspects of this story and its characters felt underdeveloped. It wasn't enough to take away from my enjoyment, but it was enough to make this just a middle of the pack romance read for me.