Summary
Katie Vaughn’s life isn’t exactly going according to plan. Still recovering from a messy, public breakup with a now-famous rock star, she’s doing her best to keep her head down and hold onto her mid-level video production job. When her boss hands her a risky new assignment—to film a documentary on a viral hero Coast Guard rescue swimmer named Tom “Hutch” Hutchinson—Katie’s in no position to say no.
There’s just one small problem: doing the story requires passing a swim test and Katie doesn’t know how to swim.
As she’s dropped into Hutch’s world of unpredictable tides, training drills, and rescue missions, Katie also meets his rescued Great Dane (the show-stealing George Bailey), the vibrant and eccentric Aunt Rue, and a community of women known as "the gals" who embrace her more than she thought possible.
Oh, and Hutch? He’s assigned to be her swim instructor. Sparks fly, of course—but so do old insecurities, missteps, and a few deeply rooted fears.
Through the awkward lessons, uncomfortable truths, and unexpected moments of joy, Katie begins to rewrite the narrative she’s been telling herself for years.
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Book Review: The Love Haters by Katherine Center
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Audiobook Recommended!
This book is pure Katherine Center magic—equal parts heart, humor, and healing. The Love Haters shines a spotlight on body image, toxic self-talk, female friendship, and learning to accept ourselves just as we are.
Katie is deeply relatable. Her inner critic is loud, often cruel, and unfortunately, all too familiar. Her journey—fumbling and emotional—is handled with such care that you can’t help but cheer her on. The trauma she’s carried from her stepmother’s harshness and online body-shaming hits hard, and yet her gradual healing with lots of nudges from her best friend and Aunt Rue feels so authentic!
Hutch is a classic grump-with-a-heart-of-gold, and his quiet strength makes for a perfect counterpart to Katie’s inner storm. Their chemistry builds slowly and beautifully, with moments of real tenderness and humor. Add in Aunt Rue and her circle of radiant supportive gals, and this book is practically begging to be read poolside with a fruity drink in hand!
And George Bailey? An absolute gem. This gentle giant and pro match maker might just be my favorite fictional pet of the year!
I especially appreciated the layers of humor that kept the heavier themes from feeling too heavy.
There are laugh-out-loud moments—especially when Katie is floundering (literally and figuratively)—but also incredibly moving scenes that encourage self-compassion and courage.
If I had one small critique, it’s that the subplot with Cole dragged on beyond what felt essential. The last wave of miscommunication/lies felt a little frustrating. Like come on dude! But overall, those were minor bumps in an otherwise joyful, empowering journey.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC (audiobook listening copy) of The Love Haters! All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
Final Thoughts
This is a story about learning to swim in more ways than one—through grief, self-doubt, change, and new beginnings.
If you’re a fan of feel-good romances that tackle real emotional baggage with humor and heart, The Love Haters belongs on your TBR.
Plus, the audiobook version is fabulous—narrated with warmth and wit, and perfectly captures Katie’s vulnerable, hilarious voice. Highly recommend listening if you enjoy immersive, character-driven reads.
And don’t skip the author’s note from Katherine Center at the end—it’s thoughtful, honest, and beautifully underscores the message of living fully, flaws and all!
Ready to escape to the Florida Keys with Katie, Hutch, and George Bailey? Sign up for a free 30-day trial of Audible here and start listening today!
If you loved The Love Haters by Katherine Center for its mix of heartfelt romance, emotional growth, body positivity, and vibrant supporting characters, here are 3 books you’ll likely enjoy just as much:
The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez
When a grieving woman finds a lost dog, she contacts the owner—only to discover he’s a charming musician touring overseas. What starts as flirty texts soon turns into something more. Like The Love Haters, this one has emotional depth, swoony slow-burn romance, and a lovable dog stealing scenes.
Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez
A feel-good rom-com with anxiety rep, grumpy-sunshine dynamics, and lots of heart. When two ER doctors are thrown together at work, a fake-dating setup leads to real feelings. It blends humor and heavier themes with sensitivity, much like Katherine Center’s writing.
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
A fake-dating romance between a PhD student and a grumpy professor, packed with banter, forced proximity, and academic chaos. Like The Love Haters, it features strong mental health rep, slow-burn tension, and a fiercely lovable heroine trying to prove herself.
The Love Haters is the kind of book that reminds you to laugh at life, show up for yourself, and embrace every messy, beautiful moment along the way. With charming characters, heartfelt themes, and a setting you’ll want to escape to, it’s an empowering, uplifting story with plenty of heart. If you're craving a feel-good read with depth, this one belongs on your TBR.
Ready to dive in? Grab your copy, queue up the audiobook (highly recommend!), and don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for more cozy book recs, new releases, and exclusive extras delivered straight to your inbox!
