Solid 4-4.25 stars. I love Katherine Center’s books for being “romance with a message”. I could relate a lot to Katie’s body image struggles so it’s always helpful when you can see yourself in the FMC. I am also a sucker for a dog, especially a Great Dane/horse and Rue was such a character. I wish we got to know a little bit more about her eccentric life, and the parts with Cole kind of dragged for me which is why this isn’t a full 5 stars for me. Thanks to Netgalley and St Martins Press for providing an advanced copy for review - all opinions are my own!

LOVED it! I devoured this book in one day! Katherine Center does it again! The characters were so like-able and the storyline kept me interested the whole book.

This is a poignant and beautifully written story that explores the complexities of love, heartbreak, and the power of self-discovery. The book centers on protagonist Claire, who, after a painful breakup, swears off love altogether. Her resolve is tested when she meets the charming and enigmatic Liam, who challenges her beliefs and forces her to confront her past. Center's writing is evocative and full of emotional depth, drawing readers into Claire's journey of healing and transformation. The character development is superb, with Claire evolving from a heartbroken skeptic to a strong, independent woman who learns to open her heart again. Liam's character is equally compelling, providing a perfect balance of warmth and mystery that keeps readers intrigued. One of the standout aspects of the book is its exploration of the different forms of love, from romantic to platonic and self-love. Center delves into the idea that healing from a broken heart requires more than just finding a new love—it involves understanding and accepting oneself first. The dialogue is witty and engaging, and the chemistry between Claire and Liam is palpable. Center masterfully blends humor with heartfelt moments, creating a story that is both entertaining and deeply moving.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing this book, with my honest review below.

I really loved The Rom-Commers, which exposed me to the different ways Katherine Center’s style of writing can appeal to me, and I was eager to read The Love Haters to see what she had in store for her readers here, since undeniably she is an inventive and entertaining storyteller. With The Love Haters she took me on an escape to Key West and filled that charming key with equally charming characters.

Katie (and her lies about her proficiency in swimming) starts us off, holding onto her job by going to the Keys to film a recruiting video for the navy of the absolutely perfect Hutch, puppy savior (for Jennifer Aniston) and all around good guy. Clearly Hutch’s brother has some issues with him given he sent Katie in his place to avoid said perfection, but Katie’s not exactly helping by not having a fear of water she’s hiding. And as is often seen with Katherine Center's books, there are points of serious subject matter in the form of Katie’s past eating disorder and continued struggles with body dysmorphia which understandably contribute to her not wanting to don a swimsuit. While I appreciate the representation of such a serious issue that many struggle with in small and large ways, I did feel that the marriage of the other parts of this story and Katie’s struggles didn’t always work well. That said, characters like Aunt Rue and Hutch were good balances and the parts of Katie’s struggles that rang true were where her circle helped champion for her to be kind to herself and look outside her own perspective.

Ultimately a lighter romance, I enjoyed the story quite a lot but found myself wishing it found more balance and transitioned a little more smoothly. If you are a fan of romantic comedies with more substance included, however, this will be appeal.

Delightful quick rom-com read! Did the storyline have a certain predictability to it? Sure. But I find that to be a comfort when it comes to a book like this. It was like rewatching your favorite episode of a tv show and it gives you all the warm fuzzies. Well written and fun banter along the way will just enough drama sprinkled in. 4/5!

I really enjoyed this book! Katherine always does a fabulous job with the little details. I enjoyed the storyline with hutch and Katie. I loved every detail about key west and aunt rue and the girls. Even George Bailey was enjoyable and entertaining. I thought the self love portion of the story was well written and nicely incorporated into the story. Overall I loved the book!

This book was hard to put down, I really loved the character to Villa moon and storyline. I love this author and another book by her that did not disappoint.

This book was great! Practically finished in one sitting. Yes it's a predictable romance, but it's also so much more. There are great ideas and tips to help with body image and they are easier to read and relate to in this setting than if i had just read a self help book.

This book starts quickly with Katie about to lose her job but quickly takes off from there when a coworker offers her a new project. Romance and humorous situations that could only happen in a book or movie ensue for a great time.

I absolutely love Katherine Center and this book reminded me why!
Katie has struggled with body image issues since her step mom told her to “suck it in” for a photo. These issues were exacerbated when she went to a red carpet event, with her rockstar boyfriend, wearing floral. She was body shamed online. Her boyfriend then proceeds to cheat on her.
Hutch lost his parents at a young age due to a car accident. His brother Cole is the least likable character in the book. His jealousy of his Coast Guard rescue swimmer brother has no bounds. Cole holds a grudge for something Hutch had no involvement in.
Cole is Katie’s coworker and sends her to interview Hutch instead of going himself.
Katie and Hutch use this time to work through their issues in healthy ways with only a few communication issues.
If you pick up this book be ready to get nothing else done until you’re finished. You will not be disappointed!

I love Katherine Center’s books. She is a fantastic writer. This was not my favorite but I still thought it was fantastic. I loved the characters. Katherine Center will continue to be a go to author for me.

4 ⭐️ - Katherine Center always has a way of pulling at the heartstrings; this book was a bit far-fetched at times, but balanced out with the continuous journey of self-love, exploring true love, and embracing all flaws and cracks in your armour. Center’s knack for intertwining humor with life lessons always does seamlessly!

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!

Katie Vaughn, one year beyond a heartbreaking cheating scandal with her famous singer ex-fiance, is now looking down a layoff as a promotional cinematographer. When her supervisor Cole, gives her an assignment to Key West shooting Cost Guard rescue swimmer Hutch Hucheson she jumps at the chance for the high profile gig--who cares if she cant swim? She books a swim lesson at her cottage rental before the job starts, what could go wrong?

Welp. Hutch, nephew of the cottage owner and BROTHER to coworker Cole, is her swim instructor. And, she was sent so that Cole wouldn't have to see his brother. DRAMA! The two have an instant connection during the forced proximity of the assignment.

What happens next is a little all over the place, and this will not be my favorite Center novel. However, I don't think she can write a bad book and I think many readers will enjoy this tropey romcom.

Note: The advanced copy failed to add a trigger warning about the FMC significant eating disorder and body dismorphia issues. There is a sentence in the Author's Note that touches on it, but I do feel this should be included in a final version.

Thank you to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the advanced copy of The Love Haters.

I am so thankful I got a chance to read this ARC. Katherine Center’s books are always feel good books and I am always smiling after I read one. The same goes for this one. This is a RomCom but it’s also a book about self love. It’s uplifting and funny and sweet and so good. I loved this so much. Put this on your TBR. It releases May 20,2025. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

I adored this new Katherine Center romance! I instantly connected with and related to the main character, Katie. Her story of resilience and pushing out of her comfort zone left me feeling encouraged and hopeful. I also loved how this book ended — she did fall in love, but she also became a stronger, more confident woman. It was a joy to read The Love Haters, and I recommend it!

4.5⭐️ rounded up. Thank you so much NetGalley for making this book a “read now”!


This was another beautiful book by Katherine Center!

Thank you to the St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. This book delivered all that I was hoping for and more. There was the irresistible parts where Hutch and Katie had me cheering them on and getting all the feels. Then throw in the dog sidekick who basically wingmaned the whole relationship. This book had me going between laughing, swooning, and being at the edge of my seat. I honestly couldn't put it down.

But what I wasn't suspecting was just how relatable Katie would be. That the author would take on the topic of female body image in such a beautiful and inspiring way. It took me to the end of the book to realize, never once do you know exactly how Katie's body looks. What we know is how she sees her body and how others see her body. But never what reality is. And the beauty is how she grows into herself and accepts her whole self. So yes this is a rom com for Hutch and Katie, but it's truly an ode to our self-love stories.

Once again Katherine Center writes a lovely Rom-Com!! One think I truly appreciated with this book was the main character, Katie. I could relate to her in such a way I imagine MANY women can. We are our own worst enemies when it comes to our self worth and bodies. I was pleased that she “came to” in the end, and accepted herself for the woman she was, and that woman was great!! One thing I felt was slightly lacking was a character buildup for Hutch and Katie. I wanted more! I felt like the dialogue’ was less in this book than her other books. This book was more “scene” descriptive. Which was good too, because I could visualize everything. I just really missed the full connection between the mains. It finally showed up in the last 1/4 of the book though!! Overall, I really enjoyed this book!

Katherine Center's The Love Haters is a charming blend of romance, and heartfelt moments, but it left me feeling conflicted about how it handled some of its heavier themes. While the book has its strengths, particularly in its side characters of "The Gals", there are significant areas where it falls short.

One of the main elements of the story is the protagonist's struggle with body dysmorphia, a topic that has the potential for depth and emotional resonance. However, I felt the book treated this issue too lightly, often glossing over the weight of the protagonist's emotional struggles in favor of quirky humor or romantic banter. Body dysmorphia is a deeply complex subject that affects millions, and while it’s understandable that not every story needs to dive into its darkest depths, the tone here felt almost dismissive at times. This made it hard to fully connect with the protagonist's journey or take her healing arc as seriously as it deserved.

Another point of contention for me was the climax scene. Without giving away spoilers, it felt unrealistic especially as someone who resides in Florida and deals with hurricanes. I also found myself rolling my eyes at the secret that was being kept from Hutch.

That said, one of the highlights of The Love Haters was The Gals—a delightful group of side characters who brought humor, heart, and charm to every scene they were in. Their dynamics and support for the protagonist were some of the most authentic and enjoyable parts of the book.

Loved this book! Relatable main character, dreamy leading man, endearing supporting characters, and an underlying message about learning to love yourself? What more could a girl want?

This was a fantastic book. I enjoyed the insight into the US Coast Guard and setting. The Gals were my favorite characters. To be honest, Katie was a bit of an annoying female main character with her lack of self- confidence, but I do think that was part of the message of the book.