Review: The Boy I Love to Hate by Emily Lowry
When I first heard about The Boy I Love to Hate, I felt an instant tug towards it. YA romances have this undeniable knack for stirring up emotions, and with the phrase "love to hate" in the title, I couldn’t resist diving in. Emily Lowry’s knack for creating relatable characters pulled me in right from the start, and I’m excited to share my thoughts about Mia and Sutton’s delightful journey at Hallisburg Prep.
The story kicks off with Mia, the new girl at Hallisburg Prep, who quickly discovers that her life at this elite school is going to be anything but easy—especially after her first encounter with the school’s star quarterback, Sutton Reilly. Their initial clash sets the stage for a classic enemies-to-lovers trope, and I found myself rooting for Mia from the very beginning. Sutton comes off as the quintessential "jock," but as the plot unfolds, it’s clear he has so much more beneath that cocky facade.
One aspect I deeply appreciated is how the book emphasizes the importance of giving others a chance. As Mia struggles with her preconceived notions of Sutton, she also learns valuable lessons about identity and friendship. The duality of her anonymous chats with NeverFret—the sweet mystery guy on the school’s messaging app—adds a charming layer to the narrative. Their connection contrasts beautifully with her growing relationship with Sutton, making me question where her heart truly lies.
Emily Lowry’s writing style has this effortless flow that makes the pages fly by. The pacing is spot-on; I never felt rushed or lagged in the narrative. The banter between Mia and Sutton is witty and lighthearted, and their chemistry practically jumps off the page. I often found myself chuckling at their exchanges—who doesn’t love a little playful sparring?
Some standout moments for me included the school fundraiser scenes where Mia and Sutton, forced into partnership thanks to a punishment, gradually start to see each other anew. The paint scene was particularly memorable, balancing humor and emotion perfectly—it encapsulated the tension and budding affection that was so well-crafted.
And let’s talk about the overarching theme of self-discovery. Mia learns to confront her biases and misconceptions, resulting in poignant reflections such as, “Maybe I needed to check myself and stop being so judgmental.” This sentiment resonates beyond the pages, reminding readers of the transformative power of empathy.
I would highly recommend The Boy I Love to Hate to anyone who relishes quick, lighthearted reads with layers of depth. It’s perfect for those who enjoy coming-of-age stories sprinkled with romance and a touch of humor. Whether you’re a dedicated YA follower or just looking for something delightful to escape into, this is the book for you.
In conclusion, my time with Mia and Sutton was nothing short of joyous. Their story left me smiling and reflecting on the realness of youthful love and rivalry. I can’t wait to see where Emily Lowry takes us next in this charming series. Grab your copy and get ready to fall in love with Hallisburg Prep!
You can find The Boy I Love to Hate : A Sweet YA Romance (Hallisburg Prep Book 1) here >>