What do you think?
Rate this book
The Lovesick Trilogy
Him & I
Scarlet Jones and Grey Simson are known for their academic rivalry at the Great Lakes Elite School, Wisconsin. Scarlet lives in the pages of books and her heart is safely hidden in the realm of fiction. At the same time, the stubborn nerd Grey focuses only on his dreams, abandoning all distractions, including thoughts of love. His world has no room for love or so he thought before he met Scarlet.
Scarlet's plan for a quiet life of books and solitude conflicts with Grey's goals for a drama-free future. None of them believe in real fairy tales and are content to let their hearts slide. But destiny seems to have other plans.
Scarlet and Grey are forced to work together on a drama project and their worlds collide. As the lines between fiction and reality blur, they discover that love can be an entirely different story. Can two souls sworn to a happy ending find their own unexpectedly happily ever after?
Him and I is a contemporary romance that dives into uncharted territory where academic rivals become unexpected allies and the lines between fiction and reality blur beautifully. Join Scarlet and Grey as they navigate the twists and turns of their love story, learning that sometimes the most magical endings are the ones we least expect.
(Him and I is the first book in The Lovesick Trilogy that follows the lives of three best friends studying in The Great Lakes School of Elites)
Scarlet's plan for a quiet life of books and solitude conflicts with Grey's goals for a drama-free future. None of them believe in real fairy tales and are content to let their hearts slide. But destiny seems to have other plans.
Scarlet and Grey are forced to work together on a drama project and their worlds collide. As the lines between fiction and reality blur, they discover that love can be an entirely different story. Can two souls sworn to a happy ending find their own unexpectedly happily ever after?
Him and I is a contemporary romance that dives into uncharted territory where academic rivals become unexpected allies and the lines between fiction and reality blur beautifully. Join Scarlet and Grey as they navigate the twists and turns of their love story, learning that sometimes the most magical endings are the ones we least expect.
(Him and I is the first book in The Lovesick Trilogy that follows the lives of three best friends studying in The Great Lakes School of Elites)
Unknown Binding
First published December 8, 2024
25 people are currently reading
1231 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 8, 2024
(4.5 ⭐)
First of all, Can I say they're the cutest couple I read about this year? Because they had lot of, I mean a lot of, cute scenes. No one's gonna compare the amount of cuteness they shared. 🫶🏻❤️🔥
Let's move on to Grey, Sir? How does it feel to be so whipped for you 'fake' girlfriend that you smile like a fool for thirty minutes when she kissed you on the cheek, you offered yourself to ber her fake bf because you didn't want others to do so, starting reading dark romance she likes it, And and broke a guy's hand because he touched her inappropriately, ALSO threatened all the guys in the campus to stay away from her.
This man is the definition of whipped af boyfriend and the boyfriend every girl deserves 😭 what do you mean he doesn't let her overthink, communicate in every situation, can't see her upset, is ready to die if she isn't in his life, begs her to stay with him forever. I LOVE THIS MAN SO MUCH 😭🤌🏻
Scarlet Jones, you cutie. I love how she pretends to be a tough girly but melts infront of Grey, from his one eye contact to his one touch. I love the affect he has on her. And also how she listens to him, communicate the problem with them. ❤️🔥
Overall they are the most cutest couple and also I love their communication and everything that revolves around them. They're so ready to do anything for eo.🥹🤌🏻 And Grey just couldn't keep his hands away from her once he had her so look forward to their spicy scenes 😏 Also also, this man made Taylor's Swift's lyrics come true for her (Read that scenes swiftie girlies)
But I needed more academic rivals moment but it's okay their love made up for it 😌✨ Also waiting for Archer and Adelaide's story now, can we have it soon pls author 🥹
First of all, Can I say they're the cutest couple I read about this year? Because they had lot of, I mean a lot of, cute scenes. No one's gonna compare the amount of cuteness they shared. 🫶🏻❤️🔥
Let's move on to Grey, Sir? How does it feel to be so whipped for you 'fake' girlfriend that you smile like a fool for thirty minutes when she kissed you on the cheek, you offered yourself to ber her fake bf because you didn't want others to do so, starting reading dark romance she likes it, And and broke a guy's hand because he touched her inappropriately, ALSO threatened all the guys in the campus to stay away from her.
This man is the definition of whipped af boyfriend and the boyfriend every girl deserves 😭 what do you mean he doesn't let her overthink, communicate in every situation, can't see her upset, is ready to die if she isn't in his life, begs her to stay with him forever. I LOVE THIS MAN SO MUCH 😭🤌🏻
Scarlet Jones, you cutie. I love how she pretends to be a tough girly but melts infront of Grey, from his one eye contact to his one touch. I love the affect he has on her. And also how she listens to him, communicate the problem with them. ❤️🔥
Overall they are the most cutest couple and also I love their communication and everything that revolves around them. They're so ready to do anything for eo.🥹🤌🏻 And Grey just couldn't keep his hands away from her once he had her so look forward to their spicy scenes 😏 Also also, this man made Taylor's Swift's lyrics come true for her (Read that scenes swiftie girlies)
But I needed more academic rivals moment but it's okay their love made up for it 😌✨ Also waiting for Archer and Adelaide's story now, can we have it soon pls author 🥹
December 6, 2024
“𝐼𝒻 𝐼 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝑔𝑜, 𝓌𝒽𝑜 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝑜 𝒸𝒶𝓉𝒸𝒽 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝐼 𝒻𝒶𝓁𝓁?”
This story moves at a fast pace and I loved Grey and Scarlet’s rivalry. It is obvious from the start that Grey is obsessed with Scarlet more than the rivalry and as their relationship develops you can see the connection is inevitable.
While rivals to lovers is the main focus the found family between the group of girls and the guys is so warming and has been excited for books 2 and 3 of this series. If you like fast pace if you enjoy the fake dating trope as more of a scheme to get the girl Grey and Scarlet are for you.
And yes he absolutely gets possessive over his girl from the beginning. There are quite a few twists that I wont ruin it but the storyline flows perfectly.
~~What to Expect~~
🩵Academia Rivals to Lovers
🩵Fake Dating
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Found Family
🩵Grumpy X Sunshine
🩵Boy Obsessed
🩵He Falls First and Hard
🩵One Bed
~~Quote~~
✒️You don’t understand Scarlet, I won’t let you go, even when you ask me to. It means forever Scarlet.
✒️Scarlet, if you think you can touch another man then you’re delusional. Fake or not, I do not share. Touch another man and you will find him six feet under the ground.
✒️How can our worlds be different when you are my entire world Scarlet.
This story moves at a fast pace and I loved Grey and Scarlet’s rivalry. It is obvious from the start that Grey is obsessed with Scarlet more than the rivalry and as their relationship develops you can see the connection is inevitable.
While rivals to lovers is the main focus the found family between the group of girls and the guys is so warming and has been excited for books 2 and 3 of this series. If you like fast pace if you enjoy the fake dating trope as more of a scheme to get the girl Grey and Scarlet are for you.
And yes he absolutely gets possessive over his girl from the beginning. There are quite a few twists that I wont ruin it but the storyline flows perfectly.
~~What to Expect~~
🩵Academia Rivals to Lovers
🩵Fake Dating
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Found Family
🩵Grumpy X Sunshine
🩵Boy Obsessed
🩵He Falls First and Hard
🩵One Bed
~~Quote~~
✒️You don’t understand Scarlet, I won’t let you go, even when you ask me to. It means forever Scarlet.
✒️Scarlet, if you think you can touch another man then you’re delusional. Fake or not, I do not share. Touch another man and you will find him six feet under the ground.
✒️How can our worlds be different when you are my entire world Scarlet.
December 31, 2024
ARC Review: Him & I
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Him & I by Vaibhavi Kataria is a delightful blend of academic tension and romance. I loved watching Grey and Scarlet’s relationship evolve from fierce academic rivals to something so much deeper and more heartfelt. Their banter and chemistry, set against the backdrop of their competitive natures, made their journey compelling.
The mix of tropes—academic rivals to lovers, forced proximity, fake dating, and the irresistible grumpy x sunshine pairing—added so many layers to their story. Grey’s brooding and Scarlet’s optimism perfectly complemented each other, and I especially loved how Grey fell first and harder for Scarlet. The way their rivalry gave way to genuine connection was both satisfying and emotional.
This book is an engaging, trope-filled romance that kept me hooked from start to finish!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Him & I by Vaibhavi Kataria is a delightful blend of academic tension and romance. I loved watching Grey and Scarlet’s relationship evolve from fierce academic rivals to something so much deeper and more heartfelt. Their banter and chemistry, set against the backdrop of their competitive natures, made their journey compelling.
The mix of tropes—academic rivals to lovers, forced proximity, fake dating, and the irresistible grumpy x sunshine pairing—added so many layers to their story. Grey’s brooding and Scarlet’s optimism perfectly complemented each other, and I especially loved how Grey fell first and harder for Scarlet. The way their rivalry gave way to genuine connection was both satisfying and emotional.
This book is an engaging, trope-filled romance that kept me hooked from start to finish!
March 8, 2025
rivals to lovers
I was very hopeful for this book but the writing was very low level. The rivalry is very much past tense and the MCs aren’t really in a current rivalry which is blah to me. This almost was “bully” but not dark at all and more like FMC is shunned. The friendships are very awkward and the banter between FMC and MMC is childish at best.
Made it about 13% before DNFing it.
I was very hopeful for this book but the writing was very low level. The rivalry is very much past tense and the MCs aren’t really in a current rivalry which is blah to me. This almost was “bully” but not dark at all and more like FMC is shunned. The friendships are very awkward and the banter between FMC and MMC is childish at best.
Made it about 13% before DNFing it.
September 7, 2024
A book full of instances which gives you butterflies. The fact that it's a enemies to lovers makes it more perfect. 💖🤭
I giggled throughout the book for sure and I'm sure, everyone else who reads will be the same as me.😁
The writing style, the plot and the characters was balanced in a perfect way. 💗
Perfect go-to read! 🤌🏻😌
I giggled throughout the book for sure and I'm sure, everyone else who reads will be the same as me.😁
The writing style, the plot and the characters was balanced in a perfect way. 💗
Perfect go-to read! 🤌🏻😌
January 7, 2025
an amazing debut & I could not be more proud of Vaibhavi!!
If you are a fan of TV Shows like Maxton Hall this book is a perfect read for you!!
If you are a fan of TV Shows like Maxton Hall this book is a perfect read for you!!
November 24, 2024
4.5 rounded up!
Thank you so much to the author, Vaibhavi Kataria for providing me an ARC copy of Him & I in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely adored Grey and Scarlet, their chemistry was so so good and I loved their enemies to lovers story.
For me personally, I enjoyed seeing Adelaide and Michelle, Scarlet's friends, and Archer and Aaron, Grey's friends, and I loved the characters relationships with one another. This book is the embodiment of found family, which is one of my favourite tropes. Not only that, but I really loved Scarlet as a character, she seemed so sweet and angelic, and sassy when around Grey.
I liked seeing Grey whipped from page 1, and the possessiveness and attitude really suited his character and supported the enemies to lovers story with Scarlet. I just feel like there was something missing from the book altogether, which is why I rated this book a 4.5 instead of a 5! I really would've loved to see more of Grey and Scarlet performing their drama play as well, because that is a big premise of the book.
Overall, it was a fun read that I would definitely recommend! I can't wait for Adelaide and Archer's book and Michelle and Aaron's book omgg!!
Thank you so much to the author, Vaibhavi Kataria for providing me an ARC copy of Him & I in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely adored Grey and Scarlet, their chemistry was so so good and I loved their enemies to lovers story.
For me personally, I enjoyed seeing Adelaide and Michelle, Scarlet's friends, and Archer and Aaron, Grey's friends, and I loved the characters relationships with one another. This book is the embodiment of found family, which is one of my favourite tropes. Not only that, but I really loved Scarlet as a character, she seemed so sweet and angelic, and sassy when around Grey.
I liked seeing Grey whipped from page 1, and the possessiveness and attitude really suited his character and supported the enemies to lovers story with Scarlet. I just feel like there was something missing from the book altogether, which is why I rated this book a 4.5 instead of a 5! I really would've loved to see more of Grey and Scarlet performing their drama play as well, because that is a big premise of the book.
Overall, it was a fun read that I would definitely recommend! I can't wait for Adelaide and Archer's book and Michelle and Aaron's book omgg!!
January 13, 2025
i'm so happy to read this🩷🥹
The story takes place in Great Lakes Elite School, Wisconsin. About academic rivals (not my favourite trope) yet I actually liked this story so much. it briefly tells about two characters who are kind of stucked with each other due to their rivalry which has a lot of banter and a reason that kept me hooked.
Now, Grey wasn't really a distracted person but he couldn't stop falling for his Scarlet while he was always a dedicated student who knows how to be a nerd. (i knew he's going to do the opposite AND HE DID)
Whereas Scarlet lives in the pages of book (count me too) and she thought she hates him...uhm lie!! they had instant connection i SWEAR. this book had so many similarities with other books I've read before but this whole set up was GLORIOUS and SWEET.
they were forced together for a drama project and guess what? it all started those moments I'm damn sure they'll cherish forever 🩷
The story takes place in Great Lakes Elite School, Wisconsin. About academic rivals (not my favourite trope) yet I actually liked this story so much. it briefly tells about two characters who are kind of stucked with each other due to their rivalry which has a lot of banter and a reason that kept me hooked.
Now, Grey wasn't really a distracted person but he couldn't stop falling for his Scarlet while he was always a dedicated student who knows how to be a nerd. (i knew he's going to do the opposite AND HE DID)
Whereas Scarlet lives in the pages of book (count me too) and she thought she hates him...uhm lie!! they had instant connection i SWEAR. this book had so many similarities with other books I've read before but this whole set up was GLORIOUS and SWEET.
they were forced together for a drama project and guess what? it all started those moments I'm damn sure they'll cherish forever 🩷
December 17, 2024
3.25⭐
I really enjoyed this book. The tropes were exactly what I love and try to find in a book
Firstly, I felt like they became lovers way too quickly for my liking. I would have appreciated more rivalry parts of their story but it's ok, I did enjoy it.
I really liked her friend group. Perfect trio. I'd love to read their individual stories if written
Something that I felt while reading this book was that's it's inspired by many booktok famous books. I'd read about something the character did and be like, oh, this happens in (book with similar scene) too
Between the two main characters, I liked Grey best. Scarlet is good too but sometimes I feel like she's a bit childish and makes a mountain our of a mole hill.
Overall it was a cute read
I really enjoyed this book. The tropes were exactly what I love and try to find in a book
Firstly, I felt like they became lovers way too quickly for my liking. I would have appreciated more rivalry parts of their story but it's ok, I did enjoy it.
I really liked her friend group. Perfect trio. I'd love to read their individual stories if written
Something that I felt while reading this book was that's it's inspired by many booktok famous books. I'd read about something the character did and be like, oh, this happens in (book with similar scene) too
Between the two main characters, I liked Grey best. Scarlet is good too but sometimes I feel like she's a bit childish and makes a mountain our of a mole hill.
Overall it was a cute read
June 23, 2025
broo this book is soo good..this book filled the corners of my heart that forgotten that it was void.. yeah I do agree at parts I felt cringe and found this book cheesy but if it makes you happy it doesn't need to make any sense.. I felt like the 15 year old me reading at 3 am [ don't judge me we all grew up reading smuts on wattpad]
I love grey😭 just few days ago I swear off love from my life and now look at me screaming crying throwing up over this man and wishing him to be mine [ I'm just girl ]
last but not the least I love those taylor swift references specially call it what you want.. 😭😭
and every time they are on football field together alchemy and so high school started playing on my mind I love that soo muchhh
this book felt like listening to mix of my favorite taylor swift song and I absolutely love every bit of it
I love grey😭 just few days ago I swear off love from my life and now look at me screaming crying throwing up over this man and wishing him to be mine [ I'm just girl ]
last but not the least I love those taylor swift references specially call it what you want.. 😭😭
and every time they are on football field together alchemy and so high school started playing on my mind I love that soo muchhh
this book felt like listening to mix of my favorite taylor swift song and I absolutely love every bit of it
December 7, 2024
Being not a very big fan of academic rivals trope or college romance trope in general this book suprised me really. The built-up was there from enemies to lovers I mean they are really competitive and I loved that part so much❤️🔥
Can I just talk non stop about the friendships in the book?? Be it the girls or boys they healed something in me by being eachothers best friend🥹😍
The 'girlfriends' were legit so real plus point they actually live together 🧎♀️
There's a bit other woman drama but nothing our grey simson can't handle.
Fake dating being cheery on top 🔝
Also did i mention he is obsessed he falls first and falls harder my man can literally do or be anything lover boy, billionaire, an excellent student, amazing friend you name it.😩💞
If you like academic rivals trope with fake dating and prefect amount of spice this is it💅🏻💅🏻
Can I also just say one more thing-
I AM WAITING FOR ARCHER WITH OPEN ARMS (and open legs too😉)
Can I just talk non stop about the friendships in the book?? Be it the girls or boys they healed something in me by being eachothers best friend🥹😍
The 'girlfriends' were legit so real plus point they actually live together 🧎♀️
There's a bit other woman drama but nothing our grey simson can't handle.
Fake dating being cheery on top 🔝
Also did i mention he is obsessed he falls first and falls harder my man can literally do or be anything lover boy, billionaire, an excellent student, amazing friend you name it.😩💞
If you like academic rivals trope with fake dating and prefect amount of spice this is it💅🏻💅🏻
Can I also just say one more thing-
I AM WAITING FOR ARCHER WITH OPEN ARMS (and open legs too😉)
January 19, 2025
sei la to de ressaca
February 6, 2025
Personally I thought this book was okay. I think the book was kinda long.
April 2, 2025
Ummmm HOLY SHIT IM OBSESSED! The love Grey has for her is so strong!!! The whole time I was reading I giggling & kicking my feet because Grey is the definition of a good book boyfriend. The groveling the pinning for all these years😩! There meet cute love at first site! Scar being a bad ass bitch & letting him grovel after what happened. Her showing him the love he always deserved! Her showing him what family means! AND the acts of service he does for everyday like I can’t!!!! I’m sorry I won’t ever be over this book🩶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
August 2, 2025can anyone pls tell me where can i download the pdf of this book?
August 28, 2025
look it definitely could be better, I've gotta be honest the writing really frustrated me at points but also understand it's not her first language so zero hate. I definitely see the potential though, overall great plot!!
February 26, 2025
tbh everything was rushed. there wasn’t enough character development and where there was the development was super fast and not well executed. and on top of all that there were to many side plots that went unfinished or again rushed. would not recommend this book
December 30, 2024
This book is so cute. I fell in love with their relationship and with him. Goshhh he always knows what to say!
December 2, 2024
My first ever ARC and I loved it 🥹 The storyline was exactly what I love to read and the relationship between the characters was amazing.
Strap yourself in because it is a rollercoaster of emotions!
I don’t want to say much more because I’ll end up spoiling it 🫣
October 13, 2025
Forgot about writing this review but better late then never right😰? So this was my very first romance book when I got into the reading community. I absolutely LOVE this like Grey is officially my hear me out list😩. I feel as if how this was written was amazing, you could clearly see there was enemies-to-lovers trope(which I love and take very seriously) and the fake saying was the cherry on top😍BUT BRO MY HEART ABSOLUTELY MELTED BECAUSE OF HIM🥹 honestly I have zero hate for this book and I bet if I read it again for the millionth time, I would still give it a 5 stars. THIS BOOK NEEDS MORE LOVE!!!
August 15, 2024
𝗛𝗶𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 by Vaibhavi Kataria
Review: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Spice: ★ ★ ★ ★.5/ 5
“Him and I” by Vaibhavi Kataria is a whirlwind of emotions, academic tension, and unexpected romance. The novel follows Scarlet Jones and Grey Simson, two fiercely intelligent students at the Great Lakes Elite School in Wisconsin. Their academic rivalry is the stuff of legends, but what happens when their academic battles turn into something far more personal?
Kataria weaves together a tapestry of beloved romance tropes, each adding layers to the complex relationship between Scarlet and Grey. The "Academic Rivals to Lovers" trope is at the heart of this story, with Scarlet and Grey initially viewing each other as mere obstacles in their paths to academic success. However, when they're forced into close proximity through a shared drama project, the sparks of rivalry begin to kindle a different kind of fire.
The "Forced Proximity" trope shines as these two intellectual powerhouses navigate the tension between their competitive natures and the growing attraction that neither of them can deny. Kataria masterfully balances their animosity with moments of genuine connection, making the transition from rivals to allies feel both inevitable and satisfying.
Adding to the mix is the "Fake Dating" element, which, although initially a scheme to distract nosy peers, soon becomes a cover for emotions that are all too real. This trope is played with a deft hand, creating a delicious tension between what’s pretend and what’s undeniably true.
The character dynamics are further enriched by the "Grumpy x Sunshine" pairing. Grey, with his brooding, no-nonsense attitude, contrasts beautifully with Scarlet’s more optimistic, if somewhat guarded, demeanor. Despite his best efforts, Grey finds himself falling first—and falling hard—while Scarlet, ever the sunshine in his shadow, slowly uncovers the layers of the boy obsessed with her.
The "Nerd x Nerd" chemistry between the two characters feels authentic and relatable. Their intellectual banter and mutual respect for each other’s academic prowess make their eventual romantic connection all the more believable.
For fans of Taylor Swift, Kataria drops subtle nods to the pop icon throughout the narrative, imbuing Scarlet’s thoughts and emotions with a “Taylor Swift coded” undertone that adds a lyrical quality to her internal monologue. It's a clever touch that deepens the connection for readers who might see themselves in Scarlet’s love for fiction and music.
The "Billionaire Boyfriend/Old Money" trope is subtly woven into Grey’s backstory, adding depth to his character and providing a stark contrast to Scarlet’s more modest upbringing. This socioeconomic difference is handled with nuance, contributing to the tension and eventual resolution of their relationship.
Kataria doesn’t shy away from the more intimate aspects of romance, either. The "Open Door Spice" is tastefully done, adding a layer of sensuality that complements the emotional depth of the story. The physical connection between Scarlet and Grey is portrayed as an extension of their emotional journey, making it feel both earned and natural.
As a final touch, the book’s incorporation of a "Playlist & Dicktionary" is a delightful bonus. The playlist adds an auditory dimension to the reading experience, while the "Dicktionary"—a collection of Grey's cheeky yet endearing terms of endearment—provides light-hearted moments that punctuate the more intense scenes.
Overall, “Him and I”is a compelling read that expertly combines familiar romance tropes with fresh, engaging characters. Vaibhavi Kataria has crafted a story that is equal parts heartwarming and intense, with a romance that feels both inevitable and extraordinary. Fans of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy a good mix of academic rivalry, emotional depth, and playful banter, will find “Him and I”a delightful addition to their bookshelves.
Review: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Spice: ★ ★ ★ ★.5/ 5
“Him and I” by Vaibhavi Kataria is a whirlwind of emotions, academic tension, and unexpected romance. The novel follows Scarlet Jones and Grey Simson, two fiercely intelligent students at the Great Lakes Elite School in Wisconsin. Their academic rivalry is the stuff of legends, but what happens when their academic battles turn into something far more personal?
Kataria weaves together a tapestry of beloved romance tropes, each adding layers to the complex relationship between Scarlet and Grey. The "Academic Rivals to Lovers" trope is at the heart of this story, with Scarlet and Grey initially viewing each other as mere obstacles in their paths to academic success. However, when they're forced into close proximity through a shared drama project, the sparks of rivalry begin to kindle a different kind of fire.
The "Forced Proximity" trope shines as these two intellectual powerhouses navigate the tension between their competitive natures and the growing attraction that neither of them can deny. Kataria masterfully balances their animosity with moments of genuine connection, making the transition from rivals to allies feel both inevitable and satisfying.
Adding to the mix is the "Fake Dating" element, which, although initially a scheme to distract nosy peers, soon becomes a cover for emotions that are all too real. This trope is played with a deft hand, creating a delicious tension between what’s pretend and what’s undeniably true.
The character dynamics are further enriched by the "Grumpy x Sunshine" pairing. Grey, with his brooding, no-nonsense attitude, contrasts beautifully with Scarlet’s more optimistic, if somewhat guarded, demeanor. Despite his best efforts, Grey finds himself falling first—and falling hard—while Scarlet, ever the sunshine in his shadow, slowly uncovers the layers of the boy obsessed with her.
The "Nerd x Nerd" chemistry between the two characters feels authentic and relatable. Their intellectual banter and mutual respect for each other’s academic prowess make their eventual romantic connection all the more believable.
For fans of Taylor Swift, Kataria drops subtle nods to the pop icon throughout the narrative, imbuing Scarlet’s thoughts and emotions with a “Taylor Swift coded” undertone that adds a lyrical quality to her internal monologue. It's a clever touch that deepens the connection for readers who might see themselves in Scarlet’s love for fiction and music.
The "Billionaire Boyfriend/Old Money" trope is subtly woven into Grey’s backstory, adding depth to his character and providing a stark contrast to Scarlet’s more modest upbringing. This socioeconomic difference is handled with nuance, contributing to the tension and eventual resolution of their relationship.
Kataria doesn’t shy away from the more intimate aspects of romance, either. The "Open Door Spice" is tastefully done, adding a layer of sensuality that complements the emotional depth of the story. The physical connection between Scarlet and Grey is portrayed as an extension of their emotional journey, making it feel both earned and natural.
As a final touch, the book’s incorporation of a "Playlist & Dicktionary" is a delightful bonus. The playlist adds an auditory dimension to the reading experience, while the "Dicktionary"—a collection of Grey's cheeky yet endearing terms of endearment—provides light-hearted moments that punctuate the more intense scenes.
Overall, “Him and I”is a compelling read that expertly combines familiar romance tropes with fresh, engaging characters. Vaibhavi Kataria has crafted a story that is equal parts heartwarming and intense, with a romance that feels both inevitable and extraordinary. Fans of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy a good mix of academic rivalry, emotional depth, and playful banter, will find “Him and I”a delightful addition to their bookshelves.
July 11, 2025
Let me start with telling you that they are THE CUTEST couple I've ever read about. I legit wanted to highlight the entire book because it was sooo swwon-worthy and my giggles and kicking legs in the air while reading the book just won't stop.
Grey Simson!!! He is THE bestttt boyfriend every girl deserves and needs. He is obsessed, super caring, tells her he loves her all the timee with his words and actions, protective and soo much moree. Ps, he is hottest fr *fanning myself*
Scarlet is soo adorable, cute, mindful fmc and i lovedd her equally. The way she reciprocated the feelings and took care of him. Oohh and when she makes him grovel but also feel hurt.
And boy oh boyy, i devoured every page like it's my lifeline. Their banter was soooo cutee and lovely and Mrs. Yates playing the cupid. I loved her. Talking about side characters, Adelaide and Archer 🤌🏻 Their book has become a solid need. And Michelle and Aaron, they were sooo cutee. I'll be honest, the whole book, the characters, the bond between them, the plot, the words, they were all sooo pure that it touched my soul. I was in awww most of the time. And that feeling is the best>>>>
All I would say is, it's worth every penny. No, I'm not saying this because it's arc review. It's my honest one and I'm just sooo happy that I got the chance to read the book. And I'm definitely getting the paperback!!
Everything in the book was soo beautiful, the fights, the heartbreak, the love, everything. One thing that made me cry was the way her parents do literally everything just to see a smile on her face. Oh and the ending too made me cry like why did it end soo fast. Besides a boyfriend and husband material like him, everyone deserves a family like hers.
Overall, if you're into swoony, pure, happy also hawt with the perfect amount of heartbreak in the story, then this is it for you. And even if you're not, GIVE IT A TRY GUYSS. IT'S WORTH IT.
Grey Simson!!! He is THE bestttt boyfriend every girl deserves and needs. He is obsessed, super caring, tells her he loves her all the timee with his words and actions, protective and soo much moree. Ps, he is hottest fr *fanning myself*
Scarlet is soo adorable, cute, mindful fmc and i lovedd her equally. The way she reciprocated the feelings and took care of him. Oohh and when she makes him grovel but also feel hurt.
And boy oh boyy, i devoured every page like it's my lifeline. Their banter was soooo cutee and lovely and Mrs. Yates playing the cupid. I loved her. Talking about side characters, Adelaide and Archer 🤌🏻 Their book has become a solid need. And Michelle and Aaron, they were sooo cutee. I'll be honest, the whole book, the characters, the bond between them, the plot, the words, they were all sooo pure that it touched my soul. I was in awww most of the time. And that feeling is the best>>>>
All I would say is, it's worth every penny. No, I'm not saying this because it's arc review. It's my honest one and I'm just sooo happy that I got the chance to read the book. And I'm definitely getting the paperback!!
Everything in the book was soo beautiful, the fights, the heartbreak, the love, everything. One thing that made me cry was the way her parents do literally everything just to see a smile on her face. Oh and the ending too made me cry like why did it end soo fast. Besides a boyfriend and husband material like him, everyone deserves a family like hers.
Overall, if you're into swoony, pure, happy also hawt with the perfect amount of heartbreak in the story, then this is it for you. And even if you're not, GIVE IT A TRY GUYSS. IT'S WORTH IT.
December 29, 2025
🏈📚✈️🗽💋👑This book is an exciting story about Scarlet and Grey, who are arch-nemesis and academic rivals who end up fake dating because Scarlet’s mom insisted she bring a boy to her birthday, so Scarlet and Grey pretend to be a couple. But beneath the surface, I believe they’ve loved each other from the very beginning—they just didn't want to admit it. What makes this book even more thrilling is how Grey treats Scarlet like a princess, obsessively caring for her, also I love how Scarlet helps Grey navigate his relationship with his sister and I think Their love feels like it’s written in the stars, and I guarantee that you won’t want to put this captivating story down!
March 24, 2025
THE BOOK IS A MUST READ. Like if you're not reading it then what are you doing? Grey made me a simp for him and I love Scarlet's character so much. Gonna buy the paperback soon. The book was so perfect, like the tension, the rivalry, the family drama, everything was chef's kiss. I'll literally rate this as the same level as Lynn Painter books. Vaibhavi Kataria is definitely my new fave author, can't wait for Lovesick!
December 9, 2024
Him & I by Vaibhavi Kataria is what i’m looking for in romance. People close with me will know two things about me that “ I don’t like school romance” and “Rival/enemies to lover” but turning out not that I dislike, I just have not find the right book. Him & I is not only perfect book to change my point of view but also one of my best read of 2024. Highly recommended
January 8, 2026
The writing was so bad, I feel like it was written in another language and translated with chat gpt.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews