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Loves Clashing
At CLASH, an elite arts and science academy, everyone must play the social game. Prizes are love, respect, and status. Sidenote: the game is rigged. Cheat at your own discretion.
Zoey Raines has big dreams. She's a fashion student on scholarship to the best arts academy in Los Angeles, CLASH. Even though she aces her fashion projects, she's failing at the social game. No matter how many cool TikToks she and her bestie Ian post of their nights out salsa dancing, no one at CLASH wants to be her friend. She blames Vega for trashing her all over social media. Image is everything at CLASH, so her messy reputation leaves her a social outcast. Forget about ever winning a date with her crush, Sebastian.
Sebastian Bautista is America's top dance influencer. His success landed him and his twin sister, Vega, a docuseries--yet, Vega sucks so bad she kills his love for the craft. Which is why he drops his sister and holds auditions for her replacement. What a shock to his system when Zoey comes out of nowhere and auditions. Sure, he's seen her and Ian's TikToks. They're amazing, but can he risk choosing Zoey when she's not a classically trained ballerina?
But what about Zoey? Can she really sacrifice her love of fashion for Sebastian? Romance flickers and so does conflict as they fight to unite their dreams, beat Vega, and win CLASH's social game.
Zoey Raines has big dreams. She's a fashion student on scholarship to the best arts academy in Los Angeles, CLASH. Even though she aces her fashion projects, she's failing at the social game. No matter how many cool TikToks she and her bestie Ian post of their nights out salsa dancing, no one at CLASH wants to be her friend. She blames Vega for trashing her all over social media. Image is everything at CLASH, so her messy reputation leaves her a social outcast. Forget about ever winning a date with her crush, Sebastian.
Sebastian Bautista is America's top dance influencer. His success landed him and his twin sister, Vega, a docuseries--yet, Vega sucks so bad she kills his love for the craft. Which is why he drops his sister and holds auditions for her replacement. What a shock to his system when Zoey comes out of nowhere and auditions. Sure, he's seen her and Ian's TikToks. They're amazing, but can he risk choosing Zoey when she's not a classically trained ballerina?
But what about Zoey? Can she really sacrifice her love of fashion for Sebastian? Romance flickers and so does conflict as they fight to unite their dreams, beat Vega, and win CLASH's social game.
412 pages, ebook
Published January 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 19, 2025
Rating: 1.5/5 stars (rounded up)
This entire book was so directionless. At no point was there a clear plan as to where the story was supposed to lead outside of our main character, Zoey, claiming popularity.
The only reason it’s not a single star is because of the variety of representation. Other than that I wasn’t invested in much of the story or the characters. The main plot point highlighted in the book’s description doesn’t come to pass until 70% in, which made it hard to care about what’s going on.
Overall, I don’t want to yap too much because I feel like nothing happened in this book, despite many events having occurred. If I could give one note it would be to plot the book out meaningfully.
Thank you to BookSirens and Cinema Latte Creative for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire book was so directionless. At no point was there a clear plan as to where the story was supposed to lead outside of our main character, Zoey, claiming popularity.
The only reason it’s not a single star is because of the variety of representation. Other than that I wasn’t invested in much of the story or the characters. The main plot point highlighted in the book’s description doesn’t come to pass until 70% in, which made it hard to care about what’s going on.
Overall, I don’t want to yap too much because I feel like nothing happened in this book, despite many events having occurred. If I could give one note it would be to plot the book out meaningfully.
Thank you to BookSirens and Cinema Latte Creative for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 28, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This story following Zoey and her big dreams was a good read with lots of things going on with the characters day to day lives it sometimes got a little confusing. I personally struggle with different POVs writing and i did also here so have been picking it up throughout the month, some parts were frustrating but overall a story dealing with friendships, relationships and finding your way in the world. Would recommend a read.
I received an advanced reader copy free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story following Zoey and her big dreams was a good read with lots of things going on with the characters day to day lives it sometimes got a little confusing. I personally struggle with different POVs writing and i did also here so have been picking it up throughout the month, some parts were frustrating but overall a story dealing with friendships, relationships and finding your way in the world. Would recommend a read.
I received an advanced reader copy free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 15, 2025
I liked Zoe and Sebastians story. I found it endearing. I would definitely read another book by this author. The story moves along at a good pace. There were parts I didn't care for but the book was great overall. I am sure others will enjoy it as well.
August 18, 2025
The best way I can describe this book is wildly entertaining. There's tons of drama and petty confrontations. It's probably perfect if you're the reality show type of person, but I'm not and I liked it too.
The characters are well-formed and I like how there were three perspectives. Though it have been even more interesting if Vega's persective was also shown.
There were also depictions of different cultures and types of dance, which I loved because I hadn't read a book until this one that did this.
There was one thing that really annoyed me though - the formatting. The book was written in third person limited, but sometimes there were first person thoughts from the characters. They weren't italicized or anything, just mixed in with the third person limited writing. It was kind of confusing at times.
All in all, I did like this book, and I would recommend.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
The characters are well-formed and I like how there were three perspectives. Though it have been even more interesting if Vega's persective was also shown.
There were also depictions of different cultures and types of dance, which I loved because I hadn't read a book until this one that did this.
There was one thing that really annoyed me though - the formatting. The book was written in third person limited, but sometimes there were first person thoughts from the characters. They weren't italicized or anything, just mixed in with the third person limited writing. It was kind of confusing at times.
All in all, I did like this book, and I would recommend.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
March 31, 2026
Love's Clashing by Lorraine Annette Wheat
🥃 ARC Review: Love's Clashing by Lorraine Annette Wheat
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5)
Spice Level: 🌶️ (1/5 — A slow-burn with more heart than heat)
Proof/Strength: 🥃🥃🥃 (A smooth, well-crafted pour that warms slowly)
Reviewed by The Bourbon-Sipping Bibliophile
🥃 The Palette (Vibes & Themes)
Flavor Profile: Young Love • Social Hierarchy • Identity & Legacy • Self-Discovery • Artistic Ambition •
The Price of Belonging
The Aroma: Fresh-pressed fashion sketches, the heat of a Southern California sidewalk, salsa music drifting from an open studio door — and the faint, tantalizing warmth of something slow-burning just beneath the surface.
🥃 The Pour: A Small-Batch Coming of Age
Love's Clashing by Lorraine Annette Wheat opens with a girl on the brink — literally. Zoey Raines is a curvy, creative, Compton-raised junior at CLASH (Christian Leadership Arts and Science High), the most prestigious arts academy in the world. She's spent two years being the social underdog, branded with the humiliating nickname "Frog Legs," courtesy of her nemesis, the queen of CLASH herself: Vega Bautista.
But this year, Zoey is done being a "variable" in someone else's story. She wants to redefine her legacy — and the path to doing that runs straight through the one person she's been secretly dreaming about for years: Sebastian Bautista, Vega's twin brother, CLASH's reigning dance prodigy, and the most magnetic contradiction Zoey has ever met. When Sebastian unexpectedly drafts Zoey as his dance partner for a docuseries about his family's legacy, their worlds collide in ways neither anticipated. What starts as a reluctant creative partnership slowly distills into something richer, more dangerous, and infinitely more complicated — the beginning of a love that refuses to stay quiet.
Told in rotating POVs across Zoey, Sebastian, and Ian (Zoey's fiercely devoted best friend), Love's Clashing is a multi-layered pour set against a world of elite arts, social warfare, and the messy, magnificent business of figuring out who you are when the world keeps insisting you're someone else.
💕 What Hit the Palate Just Right
The World-Building: CLASH is a setting that earns its own mythology. Wheat constructs this elite academy with enough specificity — the stingray fountain, the dance studios, the school's traditions and social ecosystem — that it feels lived-in and real. It's the kind of "prestigious institution" backdrop that romance readers love, but with a freshness that keeps it from feeling derivative.
Zoey's Voice: Zoey is genuinely endearing. Her anxiety, her pop-culture-drenched inner monologue (Sailor Moon, Miraculous Ladybug, Beyoncé energy all in one breath), and her ferocious desire to be seen rather than mocked — it all lands. She's not a passive heroine waiting to be rescued. She's messy, determined, and beautifully real.
The Slow Burn: Wheat understands restraint. The Zoey-Sebastian dynamic simmers slowly, building through stolen glances, unexpected moments of warmth, and a tension that never fully resolves before it absolutely should. For readers who appreciate a romance that earns its heat, this is a satisfying, "small-batch" approach to love.
Ian as Best Friend Goals: Ian deserves his own mention. He is the emotional backbone of this story — steady, loyal, and the kind of best friend that makes you ache a little. His relationship with Zoey feels authentic and lived-in, never reduced to a sidekick role.
The Three-POV Structure: Rotating between Zoey, Sebastian, and Ian could feel gimmicky in less capable hands. Here, it works. Each perspective adds dimension and prevents the story from feeling one-sided, especially as Sebastian's internal conflict around his sister, his father's legacy, and his growing feelings for Zoey deepens.
😕 Where the Proof Fell a Bit Flat
Vega's One-Dimensionality: Vega is wickedly entertaining as a villain, but at 368 pages, there's room to crack her open a little more. She drives much of the conflict, but she occasionally reads as a plot device rather than a fully formed character. A few glimpses of why she became who she is would have added a richer "finish."
Pacing in the Middle Chapters: The book's midsection carries some drag. A few subplots — particularly around the docuseries production mechanics — could have been tightened to keep the central love story at full proof. This reader found herself reaching for a stronger pour while waiting for the emotional payoff to resurface.
The Resolution Feels Rushed: For a romance that takes such care building its tension, the final convergence between Zoey and Sebastian arrives a bit quickly. After so many pages of "will they," the "finally" deserved a bit more breathing room to settle into a satisfying finish.
The Heat Stays Lukewarm: At 🌶️ (1/5), this is firmly YA territory. Readers coming in hoping for sizzle will find warmth instead — a lingering hug, a charged glance, a cheek kiss. The emotional tension carries the story, but those looking for more will want to manage expectations before pouring this one.
🥃 The Finish (Emotional Impact)
The finish is warm, hopeful, and lingering — the kind that stays in the chest long after the last page. Zoey's arc from "Frog Legs" to a girl boldly claiming her own legacy is deeply satisfying, and the final dinner scene, where all the worlds collide in unexpected harmony, delivers the emotional catharsis the book has been carefully building toward. This isn't a flashy, "high-proof" ending — it's a smooth, confident close that trusts the reader to feel what's not being said. Love's Clashing is the kind of story that reminds you why young adult romance, done right, can hit just as deep as anything in the adult space.
🍹 The Drink Pairing: The Compton Tigress Cocktail
(A Bold Hibiscus Bourbon Smash)
Because Zoey deserves a drink as fierce, bright, and unexpectedly complex as she is.
2 oz Bourbon (Zoey's spine — warm, Southern-rooted, stronger than anyone gives her credit for)
1 oz Hibiscus Syrup (The color and creativity — vivid orange and red, unapologetically bold)
3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice (The sting of social warfare — sharp, clarifying, necessary)
2 oz Sparkling Water (Ian — effervescent, steady, always there to lift the whole thing)
Garnish: Orange slice + sprig of fresh mint (A nod to Zoey's orange maxi and her Sailor Moon spirit)
Tasting Notes: Opens bright and a little tart, softens beautifully in the middle, and finishes with a warmth that lingers. Exactly like falling in love at the most inconvenient, magnificent time of your life.
Final Sip: Love's Clashing is a beautifully crafted pour for anyone who's ever wanted to burn the "Frog Legs" version of themselves to the ground and rise, orange glitter and all, into exactly who they were meant to be. Just don't pour it expecting high heat — this one warms the soul, not the sheets. Lorraine Annette Wheat has delivered a debut worth sipping slowly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
🥃 ARC Review: Love's Clashing by Lorraine Annette Wheat
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5)
Spice Level: 🌶️ (1/5 — A slow-burn with more heart than heat)
Proof/Strength: 🥃🥃🥃 (A smooth, well-crafted pour that warms slowly)
Reviewed by The Bourbon-Sipping Bibliophile
🥃 The Palette (Vibes & Themes)
Flavor Profile: Young Love • Social Hierarchy • Identity & Legacy • Self-Discovery • Artistic Ambition •
The Price of Belonging
The Aroma: Fresh-pressed fashion sketches, the heat of a Southern California sidewalk, salsa music drifting from an open studio door — and the faint, tantalizing warmth of something slow-burning just beneath the surface.
🥃 The Pour: A Small-Batch Coming of Age
Love's Clashing by Lorraine Annette Wheat opens with a girl on the brink — literally. Zoey Raines is a curvy, creative, Compton-raised junior at CLASH (Christian Leadership Arts and Science High), the most prestigious arts academy in the world. She's spent two years being the social underdog, branded with the humiliating nickname "Frog Legs," courtesy of her nemesis, the queen of CLASH herself: Vega Bautista.
But this year, Zoey is done being a "variable" in someone else's story. She wants to redefine her legacy — and the path to doing that runs straight through the one person she's been secretly dreaming about for years: Sebastian Bautista, Vega's twin brother, CLASH's reigning dance prodigy, and the most magnetic contradiction Zoey has ever met. When Sebastian unexpectedly drafts Zoey as his dance partner for a docuseries about his family's legacy, their worlds collide in ways neither anticipated. What starts as a reluctant creative partnership slowly distills into something richer, more dangerous, and infinitely more complicated — the beginning of a love that refuses to stay quiet.
Told in rotating POVs across Zoey, Sebastian, and Ian (Zoey's fiercely devoted best friend), Love's Clashing is a multi-layered pour set against a world of elite arts, social warfare, and the messy, magnificent business of figuring out who you are when the world keeps insisting you're someone else.
💕 What Hit the Palate Just Right
The World-Building: CLASH is a setting that earns its own mythology. Wheat constructs this elite academy with enough specificity — the stingray fountain, the dance studios, the school's traditions and social ecosystem — that it feels lived-in and real. It's the kind of "prestigious institution" backdrop that romance readers love, but with a freshness that keeps it from feeling derivative.
Zoey's Voice: Zoey is genuinely endearing. Her anxiety, her pop-culture-drenched inner monologue (Sailor Moon, Miraculous Ladybug, Beyoncé energy all in one breath), and her ferocious desire to be seen rather than mocked — it all lands. She's not a passive heroine waiting to be rescued. She's messy, determined, and beautifully real.
The Slow Burn: Wheat understands restraint. The Zoey-Sebastian dynamic simmers slowly, building through stolen glances, unexpected moments of warmth, and a tension that never fully resolves before it absolutely should. For readers who appreciate a romance that earns its heat, this is a satisfying, "small-batch" approach to love.
Ian as Best Friend Goals: Ian deserves his own mention. He is the emotional backbone of this story — steady, loyal, and the kind of best friend that makes you ache a little. His relationship with Zoey feels authentic and lived-in, never reduced to a sidekick role.
The Three-POV Structure: Rotating between Zoey, Sebastian, and Ian could feel gimmicky in less capable hands. Here, it works. Each perspective adds dimension and prevents the story from feeling one-sided, especially as Sebastian's internal conflict around his sister, his father's legacy, and his growing feelings for Zoey deepens.
😕 Where the Proof Fell a Bit Flat
Vega's One-Dimensionality: Vega is wickedly entertaining as a villain, but at 368 pages, there's room to crack her open a little more. She drives much of the conflict, but she occasionally reads as a plot device rather than a fully formed character. A few glimpses of why she became who she is would have added a richer "finish."
Pacing in the Middle Chapters: The book's midsection carries some drag. A few subplots — particularly around the docuseries production mechanics — could have been tightened to keep the central love story at full proof. This reader found herself reaching for a stronger pour while waiting for the emotional payoff to resurface.
The Resolution Feels Rushed: For a romance that takes such care building its tension, the final convergence between Zoey and Sebastian arrives a bit quickly. After so many pages of "will they," the "finally" deserved a bit more breathing room to settle into a satisfying finish.
The Heat Stays Lukewarm: At 🌶️ (1/5), this is firmly YA territory. Readers coming in hoping for sizzle will find warmth instead — a lingering hug, a charged glance, a cheek kiss. The emotional tension carries the story, but those looking for more will want to manage expectations before pouring this one.
🥃 The Finish (Emotional Impact)
The finish is warm, hopeful, and lingering — the kind that stays in the chest long after the last page. Zoey's arc from "Frog Legs" to a girl boldly claiming her own legacy is deeply satisfying, and the final dinner scene, where all the worlds collide in unexpected harmony, delivers the emotional catharsis the book has been carefully building toward. This isn't a flashy, "high-proof" ending — it's a smooth, confident close that trusts the reader to feel what's not being said. Love's Clashing is the kind of story that reminds you why young adult romance, done right, can hit just as deep as anything in the adult space.
🍹 The Drink Pairing: The Compton Tigress Cocktail
(A Bold Hibiscus Bourbon Smash)
Because Zoey deserves a drink as fierce, bright, and unexpectedly complex as she is.
2 oz Bourbon (Zoey's spine — warm, Southern-rooted, stronger than anyone gives her credit for)
1 oz Hibiscus Syrup (The color and creativity — vivid orange and red, unapologetically bold)
3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice (The sting of social warfare — sharp, clarifying, necessary)
2 oz Sparkling Water (Ian — effervescent, steady, always there to lift the whole thing)
Garnish: Orange slice + sprig of fresh mint (A nod to Zoey's orange maxi and her Sailor Moon spirit)
Tasting Notes: Opens bright and a little tart, softens beautifully in the middle, and finishes with a warmth that lingers. Exactly like falling in love at the most inconvenient, magnificent time of your life.
Final Sip: Love's Clashing is a beautifully crafted pour for anyone who's ever wanted to burn the "Frog Legs" version of themselves to the ground and rise, orange glitter and all, into exactly who they were meant to be. Just don't pour it expecting high heat — this one warms the soul, not the sheets. Lorraine Annette Wheat has delivered a debut worth sipping slowly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2025
Loves Clashing, by Lorraine Wheat, is an excellent debut novel that captures what it’s like to be young, gifted, ambitious (and sometimes wealthy) in Los Angeles.
Zoey Raines attends the Christian Leadership Arts and Science High -CLASH – “the most prestigious academy in the world, ” which has produced “more billionaires that any other school.” No pressure!
CLASH is an amplified version of schools that really do exist in Los Angeles: Harvard Westlake, Crossroads, the Los Angeles County High School of the Arts, The Science Academy Stem Magnet, and Campbell Hall are all schools that produce successful grads that go on to achieve success in all areas of life. But CLASH is also a pressure cooker packed with AP classes, social hierarchies, Instagram and TikTok madness, and where everyone has a “must make it” mindset – whether it’s that scholarship to a design school in Paris, your own TV show, entrance to the best university, or getting that invitation to a prestigious dance company.
There’s also a push from the school and the parents for the students to become responsible world citizens and community leaders, with a dash of the spiritual values of the great world religions – but at a school where the popular kids drive the latest model BMWs and decide who’s “in” or “out” with sharp social media posts.
It’s a contradiction Zoey feels every day when she drives her old car from Compton to Bel Air and walks on campus and gets tagged with nicknames like, “Frog Legs” and “Sexy Panties.”
The school mascot is the stingray, and the barb of a CLASH stingray hits you fast, it’s sharp and it’s got a tiny bit of poison so its wound lingers.
The book is also filled with smart and talented young people of all races, shapes and sizes who look good and enjoy guilt-free sex, which adds to the fun and makes it a very racy read.
And the conflict in the story bubbles up from young adults who are striving to do their best. Sometimes it’s the struggle to fulfill their own potential, sometimes they are trying to live up to their parents or friends’ expectations, and sometimes they just want to prove their frenemies wrong. The CLASH happens when students with different goals collide … and a smackdown happens.
There’s no nihilism and drug use or suicide, which is a welcome change in a novel about young people. There’s been a lot of that in YA books and Netflix series. No drugs or depression – just the pressure to live up to insane expectations, and to fulfill their dreams.
There’s a friendship/love triangle happening between the three protagonists, Zoey, Ian and Sebastian – but Zoey is the point of the pyramid.
Like in the movie Strictly Ballroom (am I dating myself?), she’s the talented clothing designer trying to make it as a dancer. Will the “ugly duckling” turn out to be a swan?
Ian is her best friend, with whom she’s hooked up a few times. He’s the boy next door in Compton who is full of natural talent, at CLASH on scholarship, but he’s also the naughty rebel guilty of self-sabotage.
Sebastian is the disciplined, driven, obsessed perfectionist. He’s got his own reality show happening in the school, which means he must exude perfection at all times, and keep his frustration (mostly with himself) in check.
All of them are guilty of getting in their own way. CLASH just wants them to “retrain, rethink, rediscover and persevere” (taken from the school handbook). Because “how can we really be great if we never face our fears? Work with artists that inspire and challenge you to create great art.”
I’d have a tough time at a school like that!
Greater Los Angeles is a character in the novel as well, and Lorraine Wheat brings all of it to life. She seems to know Bel Air, Brentwood, Compton, salsa dancing, Korean taco trucks, and the hissing of summer lawns. Did you know that Compton has a championship cricket club?
I recommend this book for a fast, fun, enjoyable read that captures what it’s like to be a teenager today.
Zoey Raines attends the Christian Leadership Arts and Science High -CLASH – “the most prestigious academy in the world, ” which has produced “more billionaires that any other school.” No pressure!
CLASH is an amplified version of schools that really do exist in Los Angeles: Harvard Westlake, Crossroads, the Los Angeles County High School of the Arts, The Science Academy Stem Magnet, and Campbell Hall are all schools that produce successful grads that go on to achieve success in all areas of life. But CLASH is also a pressure cooker packed with AP classes, social hierarchies, Instagram and TikTok madness, and where everyone has a “must make it” mindset – whether it’s that scholarship to a design school in Paris, your own TV show, entrance to the best university, or getting that invitation to a prestigious dance company.
There’s also a push from the school and the parents for the students to become responsible world citizens and community leaders, with a dash of the spiritual values of the great world religions – but at a school where the popular kids drive the latest model BMWs and decide who’s “in” or “out” with sharp social media posts.
It’s a contradiction Zoey feels every day when she drives her old car from Compton to Bel Air and walks on campus and gets tagged with nicknames like, “Frog Legs” and “Sexy Panties.”
The school mascot is the stingray, and the barb of a CLASH stingray hits you fast, it’s sharp and it’s got a tiny bit of poison so its wound lingers.
The book is also filled with smart and talented young people of all races, shapes and sizes who look good and enjoy guilt-free sex, which adds to the fun and makes it a very racy read.
And the conflict in the story bubbles up from young adults who are striving to do their best. Sometimes it’s the struggle to fulfill their own potential, sometimes they are trying to live up to their parents or friends’ expectations, and sometimes they just want to prove their frenemies wrong. The CLASH happens when students with different goals collide … and a smackdown happens.
There’s no nihilism and drug use or suicide, which is a welcome change in a novel about young people. There’s been a lot of that in YA books and Netflix series. No drugs or depression – just the pressure to live up to insane expectations, and to fulfill their dreams.
There’s a friendship/love triangle happening between the three protagonists, Zoey, Ian and Sebastian – but Zoey is the point of the pyramid.
Like in the movie Strictly Ballroom (am I dating myself?), she’s the talented clothing designer trying to make it as a dancer. Will the “ugly duckling” turn out to be a swan?
Ian is her best friend, with whom she’s hooked up a few times. He’s the boy next door in Compton who is full of natural talent, at CLASH on scholarship, but he’s also the naughty rebel guilty of self-sabotage.
Sebastian is the disciplined, driven, obsessed perfectionist. He’s got his own reality show happening in the school, which means he must exude perfection at all times, and keep his frustration (mostly with himself) in check.
All of them are guilty of getting in their own way. CLASH just wants them to “retrain, rethink, rediscover and persevere” (taken from the school handbook). Because “how can we really be great if we never face our fears? Work with artists that inspire and challenge you to create great art.”
I’d have a tough time at a school like that!
Greater Los Angeles is a character in the novel as well, and Lorraine Wheat brings all of it to life. She seems to know Bel Air, Brentwood, Compton, salsa dancing, Korean taco trucks, and the hissing of summer lawns. Did you know that Compton has a championship cricket club?
I recommend this book for a fast, fun, enjoyable read that captures what it’s like to be a teenager today.
August 30, 2025
Loves Clashing delivers a bold, emotionally resonant novel that elevates the YA contemporary genre with a rare blend of artistic precision and heartfelt character work. Set at CLASH Academy—a hyper-competitive institution where dance and fashion collide—the novel deftly examines the pressures of youth performance culture and the complexities of reclaiming personal identity in the face of public ruin.
At the center is Zoey Raines, a once-celebrated fashion student whose social standing is decimated by scandal. When she unexpectedly auditions to partner with Sebastian Bautista—a gifted but emotionally fractured dancer searching for meaning beyond the stage—the result is a story as much about creative survival as it is about trust, truth, and transformation.
Strengths:
• Authentic Character Development: Zoey is a refreshingly layered protagonist—introspective, resilient, and flawed. Her arc feels earned. Sebastian’s quiet unraveling and rebuilding in the wake of burnout and betrayal give the narrative emotional ballast.
• Thematic Sophistication: The novel explores timely themes—public perception, creative burnout, digital identity, and the cost of reputation. It never underestimates its audience’s emotional intelligence.
• Art as Narrative Language: Dance and fashion are more than plot elements—they are extensions of the characters’ inner lives. The cultural integration of movement styles and design details gives the book both texture and voice.
• Stylistic Execution: The writing is sharp and contemporary, balancing emotional weight with narrative drive. While the shifts in perspective and tense occasionally lack clarity, they do not detract significantly from the reading experience.
Rating: 4.6 Stars rounded to a 5
This is a novel of substance and originality, offering readers a story with both immediacy and long-view emotional depth. It stops just shy of a perfect rating due to a few uneven narrative transitions and a slightly rushed emotional climax. However, these are minor detractions in an otherwise skillfully constructed and compelling work.
Loves Clashing is ultimately a celebration of artistic risk, emotional vulnerability, and the beauty that emerges when we stop performing and start telling the truth.
Highly recommended for YA collections, high school libraries, teen advisory groups, and anyone seeking a story that balances ambition with authenticity.
This is a voluntary review completed after receipt of a review copy.
At the center is Zoey Raines, a once-celebrated fashion student whose social standing is decimated by scandal. When she unexpectedly auditions to partner with Sebastian Bautista—a gifted but emotionally fractured dancer searching for meaning beyond the stage—the result is a story as much about creative survival as it is about trust, truth, and transformation.
Strengths:
• Authentic Character Development: Zoey is a refreshingly layered protagonist—introspective, resilient, and flawed. Her arc feels earned. Sebastian’s quiet unraveling and rebuilding in the wake of burnout and betrayal give the narrative emotional ballast.
• Thematic Sophistication: The novel explores timely themes—public perception, creative burnout, digital identity, and the cost of reputation. It never underestimates its audience’s emotional intelligence.
• Art as Narrative Language: Dance and fashion are more than plot elements—they are extensions of the characters’ inner lives. The cultural integration of movement styles and design details gives the book both texture and voice.
• Stylistic Execution: The writing is sharp and contemporary, balancing emotional weight with narrative drive. While the shifts in perspective and tense occasionally lack clarity, they do not detract significantly from the reading experience.
Rating: 4.6 Stars rounded to a 5
This is a novel of substance and originality, offering readers a story with both immediacy and long-view emotional depth. It stops just shy of a perfect rating due to a few uneven narrative transitions and a slightly rushed emotional climax. However, these are minor detractions in an otherwise skillfully constructed and compelling work.
Loves Clashing is ultimately a celebration of artistic risk, emotional vulnerability, and the beauty that emerges when we stop performing and start telling the truth.
Highly recommended for YA collections, high school libraries, teen advisory groups, and anyone seeking a story that balances ambition with authenticity.
This is a voluntary review completed after receipt of a review copy.
Review of advance copy
This story centers around (Zoey, Ian, Sebastian, and Vega) and takes place during their senior year at a performing arts high school (which I didn't realize) and let me tell you the shenanigans in this book will make your high school days pale in comparison.
Zoey, the daughter of the first poc principal has been bullied since grade school thanks to Sebastian's twin sister Vega and Zoey wants it to stop, so she brainstorms ideas with her best friend Ian about starting the first day of their return back to school with a lot of hope and it does not go well.
It get worse when Sebastian and Vega fall out and he oust his sister as his dance partner and embarks on a journey to find a new partner during a docuseries being filmed with Sebastian as the focal point. Ultimately, Zoey auditions and is eventually selected, it's one of her dreams, yet she didn't act like it. Her insecurity called for therapy or at least a strong never say die attitude which she lacked, the bullying and the social media trolls didn't motivate her to overcome.
There is something that happens to Zoey after she is announced as Sebastian's dance partner and what I didn't understand is why there were no repercussions for the culprits. No investigation. No acknowledgement from the principal (her father) of the bullying against a student, his daughter. Which ultimately means that bullying is tolerated. There is no way Zoey's father (Principal Gaines) wouldn't have heard what happened, yet it's never addressed—yes, he's the principal but he's also her father. This made no sense to me.
Lastly, the story timeline felt off, we're told Zoey lost 30 pounds, but we're not privy to very many rehearsal scenes—therefore her transformation; and I was completely lost with Tech and Hippie Nerds characters as to why they were still in the lives of Ian's parents.
This is a publishing house book, so there is no epilogue and every story (imo) should have one that takes a satisfying glimpse into the future of the main characters. I'm a firm believer in different strokes for different folks, so don't let this review stop you from reading this story if this is a book you'd be interested in reading, your opinion may differ and that's perfectly okay.
Happy New Year and Happy Reading in 2026!
ARC provided by author and Booksirens. Thank you.
Zoey, the daughter of the first poc principal has been bullied since grade school thanks to Sebastian's twin sister Vega and Zoey wants it to stop, so she brainstorms ideas with her best friend Ian about starting the first day of their return back to school with a lot of hope and it does not go well.
It get worse when Sebastian and Vega fall out and he oust his sister as his dance partner and embarks on a journey to find a new partner during a docuseries being filmed with Sebastian as the focal point. Ultimately, Zoey auditions and is eventually selected, it's one of her dreams, yet she didn't act like it. Her insecurity called for therapy or at least a strong never say die attitude which she lacked, the bullying and the social media trolls didn't motivate her to overcome.
There is something that happens to Zoey after she is announced as Sebastian's dance partner and what I didn't understand is why there were no repercussions for the culprits. No investigation. No acknowledgement from the principal (her father) of the bullying against a student, his daughter. Which ultimately means that bullying is tolerated. There is no way Zoey's father (Principal Gaines) wouldn't have heard what happened, yet it's never addressed—yes, he's the principal but he's also her father. This made no sense to me.
Lastly, the story timeline felt off, we're told Zoey lost 30 pounds, but we're not privy to very many rehearsal scenes—therefore her transformation; and I was completely lost with Tech and Hippie Nerds characters as to why they were still in the lives of Ian's parents.
This is a publishing house book, so there is no epilogue and every story (imo) should have one that takes a satisfying glimpse into the future of the main characters. I'm a firm believer in different strokes for different folks, so don't let this review stop you from reading this story if this is a book you'd be interested in reading, your opinion may differ and that's perfectly okay.
Happy New Year and Happy Reading in 2026!
ARC provided by author and Booksirens. Thank you.
Review of advance copy
Tropes: Dance, School, Class Difference, Opposites, Bullying, Conflict
Loves Clashing by Lorraine Annette Wheat is a tangled romance story involving an attractive couple and the musing of a third person involved with the main characters (three POVs). Zoey Raines is a student at the Christian Leadership Arts and Science High (CLASH). She is a gifted designer and aspires to be a dancer and a part of the community at this prestigious school; unfortunately, she has neither the clout nor the social bandwidth to blend in. In the school’s hierarchy, Sebastian Bautista and his twin sister are at the pinnacle. Their parents are rich and famous, and the twins are social media sensations! Sebastian is also meticulous and driven to excel in the world of dance. He and his twin have differing views on the art of dance, social media and discipline; subsequently, Sebastian holds a contest for her replacement. Enter Zoey! As Zoey and Sebastian find that their goals align, will they clash or make a love connection.
Conclusion:
As noted, this is a tangled story, much like the teenage experience. They must weather scandals, insecurities, betrayals from family and friends, all while trying to make sense of their worlds. Zoey and Sebastian were finely drawn characters, and I enjoyed being privy to their growth and artistry. I must say I was somewhat taken aback when I discovered that Ian’s POV was a part of the narrative. Unfortunately, I was never able to connect with him and felt that he was a distraction from the main plot. I still recommend this angsty and moving story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/loves-...
Loves Clashing by Lorraine Annette Wheat is a tangled romance story involving an attractive couple and the musing of a third person involved with the main characters (three POVs). Zoey Raines is a student at the Christian Leadership Arts and Science High (CLASH). She is a gifted designer and aspires to be a dancer and a part of the community at this prestigious school; unfortunately, she has neither the clout nor the social bandwidth to blend in. In the school’s hierarchy, Sebastian Bautista and his twin sister are at the pinnacle. Their parents are rich and famous, and the twins are social media sensations! Sebastian is also meticulous and driven to excel in the world of dance. He and his twin have differing views on the art of dance, social media and discipline; subsequently, Sebastian holds a contest for her replacement. Enter Zoey! As Zoey and Sebastian find that their goals align, will they clash or make a love connection.
Conclusion:
As noted, this is a tangled story, much like the teenage experience. They must weather scandals, insecurities, betrayals from family and friends, all while trying to make sense of their worlds. Zoey and Sebastian were finely drawn characters, and I enjoyed being privy to their growth and artistry. I must say I was somewhat taken aback when I discovered that Ian’s POV was a part of the narrative. Unfortunately, I was never able to connect with him and felt that he was a distraction from the main plot. I still recommend this angsty and moving story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/loves-...
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so honored to read an early draft of 'Loves Clashing' - an unexpected and surprising debut novel.
As a devoted romance reader, I found it unpredictable and less formulaic than the normal fare. If you're used to the more traditional character dynamics and tropes of the genre, you won't find them here. And it feels fitting to have a more experimental and less rigid storytelling experience for a setting like CLASH and set of characters like Zoey, Seb and Ian.
One of the highlights of the book is the world we get to dive into. It feels like an authentic slice of LA while still feeling shiny, bright and layered - a place we want to keep coming back to. There is a multicultural nature to the school where the interweaving of food, language and music from various backgrounds feels real, tangible and boundless.
But there's also the familiarity of the high school experience baked in - the cliques, the peer pressure, the feeling that popularity is a matter of life and death and that failure is not an option. Though we associate these things with adolescence, they still exist in our adulthood in some ways - which may be why we can relate to characters like Zoey. She's ambitious and wants to succeed despite being ostracized by her peers - and for that, we want to root for her.
If you're open to a more unconventional YA storytelling experience, this is the book for you, especially for the ballet fans out there. Don't forget your dancing shoes.
As a devoted romance reader, I found it unpredictable and less formulaic than the normal fare. If you're used to the more traditional character dynamics and tropes of the genre, you won't find them here. And it feels fitting to have a more experimental and less rigid storytelling experience for a setting like CLASH and set of characters like Zoey, Seb and Ian.
One of the highlights of the book is the world we get to dive into. It feels like an authentic slice of LA while still feeling shiny, bright and layered - a place we want to keep coming back to. There is a multicultural nature to the school where the interweaving of food, language and music from various backgrounds feels real, tangible and boundless.
But there's also the familiarity of the high school experience baked in - the cliques, the peer pressure, the feeling that popularity is a matter of life and death and that failure is not an option. Though we associate these things with adolescence, they still exist in our adulthood in some ways - which may be why we can relate to characters like Zoey. She's ambitious and wants to succeed despite being ostracized by her peers - and for that, we want to root for her.
If you're open to a more unconventional YA storytelling experience, this is the book for you, especially for the ballet fans out there. Don't forget your dancing shoes.
July 3, 2026
Loves Clashing is a Young Adult novel that follows the junior year of Zoey, a student at an elite academy in Los Angeles, California who decides to re-invent herself before the beginning of her junior year in high school and become popular. She is presented with a unique opportunity and has to decide if taking it is what she truly wants and if she is really prepared for all of the changes that may come about in her life as a result. Does she truly want her life to change or is she just afraid of things remaining exactly the same?
This book is a standard length young adult novel set in the modern day as a sweet romance. There are several scenes with sexual content, but they are not explicit or long. The novel does a very good job of setting the social dynamic of the high school as realistic, creating realistic relationships (parent/child, friendships, romantic, family), and building characters who draw you in and make you feel invested in their lives and wellbeing. The pacing and structure of the novel is good and there are no moments where the story lags or becomes hard to follow. There are no serious trigger warnings, but readers should be aware of sexual content involving teenagers, bullying, and polyamorous relationships. If you enjoy a YA novel with sweet romantic moments, multiple points of view telling the story, and a storyline with strong characters that pull you in from the very beginning, this book is for you.
This book is a standard length young adult novel set in the modern day as a sweet romance. There are several scenes with sexual content, but they are not explicit or long. The novel does a very good job of setting the social dynamic of the high school as realistic, creating realistic relationships (parent/child, friendships, romantic, family), and building characters who draw you in and make you feel invested in their lives and wellbeing. The pacing and structure of the novel is good and there are no moments where the story lags or becomes hard to follow. There are no serious trigger warnings, but readers should be aware of sexual content involving teenagers, bullying, and polyamorous relationships. If you enjoy a YA novel with sweet romantic moments, multiple points of view telling the story, and a storyline with strong characters that pull you in from the very beginning, this book is for you.
July 4, 2026
Loves Clashing is a vibrant, fast-paced contemporary romance that effortlessly captures the high-pressure, hyper-curated world of modern social media and elite academy life. Set against the glamorous backdrop of CLASH, a competitive arts and science academy in Los Angeles where status is currency, the story introduces us to Zoey Raines. Zoey is a brilliant scholarship fashion student who excels at design but is completely losing the school's cutthroat social game—thanks in large part to a targeted smear campaign by the school's reigning mean girl, Vega.
The narrative truly sparks when Zoey decides to audition as a dance partner for Vega’s twin brother, Sebastian Bautista, America’s top dance influencer. The chemistry and friction between Zoey and Sebastian are electric. Wheat does a phenomenal job exploring the juxtaposition between Zoey's raw, unstudied salsa talent and the rigid, classically trained expectations of Sebastian’s world. As romance flickers between them, the book transforms into an addictive, high-stakes battle of wills, forcing both characters to navigate public image, artistic sacrifice, and the ultimate quest to beat the rigged social game. It is a fresh, glittering, and deeply satisfying YA/New Adult crossover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The narrative truly sparks when Zoey decides to audition as a dance partner for Vega’s twin brother, Sebastian Bautista, America’s top dance influencer. The chemistry and friction between Zoey and Sebastian are electric. Wheat does a phenomenal job exploring the juxtaposition between Zoey's raw, unstudied salsa talent and the rigid, classically trained expectations of Sebastian’s world. As romance flickers between them, the book transforms into an addictive, high-stakes battle of wills, forcing both characters to navigate public image, artistic sacrifice, and the ultimate quest to beat the rigged social game. It is a fresh, glittering, and deeply satisfying YA/New Adult crossover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Loves Clashing is a fun YA story that explores friendship, identity, and belonging.
I really appreciated the representation and how the book highlighted the challenges of being one of the few students of color in a mostly non-diverse school. The book switched between third and first person sometimes. I think the first-person sections were meant to show the characters’ inner thoughts — they just weren’t italicized, so it took me a moment to adjust.
Ian was a bit frustrating at times — he had his own struggles, but wasn’t always the best friend to Zoey. Still, I loved that he was there for her in the end. And I loved that Zoey was figuring herself out, trying to find where she belonged — isn’t that what those years are all about?
The ending felt a little rushed, but overall, this was an enjoyable read. As a dance lover, I couldn’t help but smile at the dance scenes and cultural details woven throughout — from salsa and bachata to Korean taco trucks, Compton vibes, and Bel Air energy.
Loves Clashing is a story about identity, friendship, and finding your rhythm — both on and off the dance floor.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Loves Clashing is a fun YA story that explores friendship, identity, and belonging.
I really appreciated the representation and how the book highlighted the challenges of being one of the few students of color in a mostly non-diverse school. The book switched between third and first person sometimes. I think the first-person sections were meant to show the characters’ inner thoughts — they just weren’t italicized, so it took me a moment to adjust.
Ian was a bit frustrating at times — he had his own struggles, but wasn’t always the best friend to Zoey. Still, I loved that he was there for her in the end. And I loved that Zoey was figuring herself out, trying to find where she belonged — isn’t that what those years are all about?
The ending felt a little rushed, but overall, this was an enjoyable read. As a dance lover, I couldn’t help but smile at the dance scenes and cultural details woven throughout — from salsa and bachata to Korean taco trucks, Compton vibes, and Bel Air energy.
Loves Clashing is a story about identity, friendship, and finding your rhythm — both on and off the dance floor.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2026
Loves Clashing, by Lorraine A, Wheat was a cute young adult romance book. Reading it took me back to my high school days and parts of Zoey's character reminded me of my younger self. Though one of the "popular kids" I always had a running commentary of my life going through my mind and agonized over things that my peers seem to take in stride. i had a few crushes, but dating was a complete mystery to me. Unlike Zoey, I didn't "shrink myself" but rather used my status to protect and include those who didn't seem to "fit-in" or have a "voice".
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2026
'But what about Zoey? Can she really sacrifice her love of fashion for Sebastian? Romance flickers and so does conflict as they fight to unite their dreams, beat Vega, and win CLASH’s social game.'
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters were very appealing and complex and complicated. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
I liked this book very much. It was great I loved how Zoey and Sebastian were written. The chemistry between all the characters was entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 27, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was… a lot.
First, it was incredibly hard to get into. It took me a while but I also had to force myself to finish it.
Second is definitely the way in which the entire book was written! Okay so there are POV’s for 3 different characters, the FMC Zoey, the MMC Sebastian and the FMC’s best friend (random, right!?) Ian and that would be totally normal, except for the fact that it wasn’t from their perspectives. It often started off with 1st person then switch to 3rd person for the rest of the chapter. And it wasn’t even just once, it was for the whole book which annoyed me sooo bad.
Third is probably the fact that Ian was considered a main character enough, to have 18 chapters from (what was meant to be) his perspective! I don’t know if Ian can even be called a ‘best friend’, he often thought bad about Zoey, was a total slut and often abandoned Zoey to hang out with the SG, the cliche mean gang. Even going so far as to encourage (/hook-up-with) the very girl who was bullying Zoey, Vega.
Although, I just know that for all the drama, if Ian was included, Vega’s opinion being thrown into the mix would have been très interesting. Adding that bit of understanding for the readers about Vega.
Another thing I disliked is probably a more personal opinion, but I love a strong, badass FMC and Zoey was absolutely not that. She kept talking about how she wasn’t a ‘quitter’, but really she was, and couldn’t even showcase her talent(s) let alone be proud and flaunt them.
By the ending I didn’t think ‘Oh My Goodness— the absolute worst read I’ve ever, well, read’ so I suppose whilst it could’ve been better it wasn’t bad.
I liked the storyline but I feel as though the emotion and love between Sebastian and Zoey wasn’t really built up to, just forced upon them.
I might read it again (although, probably not). I feel really bad for practically hating on it but it’s the truth. Feel free to let me know of your take/opinion if you disagree with me (respectfully, of course).
Xoxo…
This book was… a lot.
First, it was incredibly hard to get into. It took me a while but I also had to force myself to finish it.
Second is definitely the way in which the entire book was written! Okay so there are POV’s for 3 different characters, the FMC Zoey, the MMC Sebastian and the FMC’s best friend (random, right!?) Ian and that would be totally normal, except for the fact that it wasn’t from their perspectives. It often started off with 1st person then switch to 3rd person for the rest of the chapter. And it wasn’t even just once, it was for the whole book which annoyed me sooo bad.
Third is probably the fact that Ian was considered a main character enough, to have 18 chapters from (what was meant to be) his perspective! I don’t know if Ian can even be called a ‘best friend’, he often thought bad about Zoey, was a total slut and often abandoned Zoey to hang out with the SG, the cliche mean gang. Even going so far as to encourage (/hook-up-with) the very girl who was bullying Zoey, Vega.
Although, I just know that for all the drama, if Ian was included, Vega’s opinion being thrown into the mix would have been très interesting. Adding that bit of understanding for the readers about Vega.
Another thing I disliked is probably a more personal opinion, but I love a strong, badass FMC and Zoey was absolutely not that. She kept talking about how she wasn’t a ‘quitter’, but really she was, and couldn’t even showcase her talent(s) let alone be proud and flaunt them.
By the ending I didn’t think ‘Oh My Goodness— the absolute worst read I’ve ever, well, read’ so I suppose whilst it could’ve been better it wasn’t bad.
I liked the storyline but I feel as though the emotion and love between Sebastian and Zoey wasn’t really built up to, just forced upon them.
I might read it again (although, probably not). I feel really bad for practically hating on it but it’s the truth. Feel free to let me know of your take/opinion if you disagree with me (respectfully, of course).
Xoxo…
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