But I Hate Him

by Page Powars

From New York Times and #1 Indies bestselling author Page Powars, a sizzling queer YA romcom about academic rivals who face off at the most competitive camp in the country. Perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston and Alice Oseman.

Rory is academic royalty.

As the heir to the most successful tutoring company in the world, he can be nothing less than perfect if he wants to gain his parents’ approval. So it's simple. Rory studies harder than anyone else. He does not make mistakes. And he never loses.

Except to Luca Melendez. The infuriatingly good-looking hockey player who wins every academic competition without even trying.

When Rory has a very public meltdown, throwing a smoothie at Luca and shattering his own public image in the process – it feels like one more thing Luca ruined.

To salvage his reputation, Rory has his sights set on winning the most cutthroat academic camp in the country, BRAIN. There is nothing standing between Rory and the final medal.

Until, Luca Melendez shows up.

This means war and Rory has the perfect Make Luca fall in love with him.

And then break Luca’s heart right before the final competition.

Genres: Romance, Young Adult, Queer, Contemporary, LGBT, M M Romance, Transgender

304 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication August 25, 2026

About the author

Page Powars is the New York Times, USA Today, and #1 Indie bestselling author of And They Were Roommates, The Borrow a Boyfriend Club, and more coming down the line. He was raised by video game lore that requires stringboard analyses to understand. Now, he writes books for teenagers and adults. He lives in Brooklyn with his partner.

Reviews

[Fernanda (ivyfer_isreading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5
This was so sweet, exactly what I needed.
But I hate him is a ya romance with academic rivals to lovers and it more than delivered. I like the arc the main character goes through and it would only be better if we had an epilogue. I'm serious GIVE ME AN EPILOGUE, I want to see them happy as a couple in their university life it's a NEED.
It was a super quick read and very light-hearted. The conflict was more of the same but that's just a personal preference, I just hate miscommunication and lying. The highlight for me is that it was SO FUNNY. I rarely laugh reading books but I was audibly cackling almost every chapter, the titles killed me, I love them so much.

Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan for the ARC.

[Pierce Samuel ✞︎ (My Girlfriend's Ver.)]

I loved And They Were Roomates, this is immediately going on the "High Priority TBR" lol. Someone tell me when this comes out, because your boy DOES NOT have any mainstream social media LOL

[Bethany Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you @macmillanusa for the digital copy to review!

This book by @pagepowars was a perfect book to read during the #TransRightsReadathon! Luca and Rory were literally everything to me. I *LOVED* their rivalry and chemistry and banter and cute moments. But also, the initial meeting we see them at had me gasping 😅😅😅.

I also have to say, I still think Page is writing the funniest YA books right now. The chapter titles alone sent me into oblivion. I was reading this while getting my hair done and I couldn’t stop giggling.

The dynamic between Rory, our main character and storyteller, and Luca, his “enemy” and pseudo love interest was so much freaking fun. I *KNEW* about Luca but oh my god was it so great to watch Rory figure it out too. Their ice skating date? The stars? The work on Luca’s project?? I’m so in love with them.

Anyway I don’t want to spoil the goodness but trust me - this one is fantastic. I already preordered my signed copy (you can too!) and can’t wait to tell Page how much I loved it.

[Brianna Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shane and Ilya in a different font and I loved it so much!!

[Quilted.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this already knowing I love Page Powars writing And They Were Roommates completely had my heart last year and somehow this one still surprised me. But I Hate Him was everything I wanted and more. I literally binged it in a day because I could not put it down.This story follows Rory, who is basically academic royalty. He’s been raised to be perfect top of his class, no mistakes, always winning because anything less means disappointing his parents. And for the most part, he does win except when it comes to Luca Melendez. Luca is effortlessly good at everything, including beating Rory in every academic competition, and it drives Rory insane. After a very public meltdown (yes involving a smoothie), Rory’s reputation takes a hit, and he becomes determined to win it all at this elite academic camp called BRAIN.But when Luca shows up too, Rory decides on a new strategy: make Luca fall for him and then break his heart before the final competition.And obviously, things do not go the way he plans.What I loved so much about this book is how it takes that classic rivals to lovers energy and adds so much more to it. It’s not just tension and banter (though there’s plenty of that) it’s also about pressure, identity, and what it means to be seen for who you really are outside of expectations. Rory’s need to be perfect and the way that slowly unravels felt so real, especially when mixed with feelings he doesn’t want to admit.
Also, the chemistry was insane. The banter, the slow shift from enemies to something softer, the emotional moments that sneak up on you it all just hits. I was rooting for them so hard even when Rory was being well, Rory.And I think it’s really important to talk about why books like this matter especially during something like the trans rights readathon. Stories like this center queer and trans joy, messiness, growth, and love in a way that feels human and relatable, not just “issue based.” Seeing characters exist fully being competitive, petty, soft, ambitious, and in love matters. It reminds people that trans stories deserve to be celebrated in every genre, including romcoms.This book isn’t just fun (though it absolutely is) it’s meaningful. It gives space for identity, for self acceptance, and for complicated emotions, all wrapped in a story that will have you hooked from start to finish.I loved this so much. if you read And They Were Roommates, you need to pick this one up.LOVED.

[Ellen Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book by Page Powars! Thank you NetGalley for approving my request for this ARC! I am such a huge fan of Page Powars and have been dying to get my hands on this book. I read it in one sitting. Such a great read!

Everything about this book was chef’s kiss! The chapter titles were my absolute favorite. The characters in this book are so lovable and so unique. The pacing was great and the end was satisfying! I must say though, I need an epilogue! It simply cannot end like this! Also, the dedication… just yes.

I can’t wait for Page Powars’ next book!

Thank you again to NetGalley for the ARC! <3

[Victoria | Victoriabooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cuuuuuute.

The relationship felt a tiny bit forced but other than that I liked it a lot! Rory and Luca are full of miscommunication but adorable el.

A huge fan of the trans man x cis man relationship, I need more!

[Vee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC of But I Hate Him by Page Powars!!

But I Hate Him was not what I expected in a great way! This book kept me so engaged and on the edge of my seat which hasn’t happened with a romance book before. I loved the writing in this story and I absolutely loved these characters!

This book is a young adult romance that follows Rory and Luca, academic rivals, at an academic camp. These two, facing their own issues, grow closer, despite their personal differences and opposing cabins.

I loved But I Hate Him! I wish it had been longer, but this story was beautiful and great. A very educational story as well! I definitely want to check out more from this author!

[Zoë · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t read And They Were Roommates yet but it’s on my TBR. I’ve heard such great things about this author and was so stoked to get a chance to read this ARC.

The story follows Rory, a wicked smart and academically driven student who has been raised to be the epitome of perfection in school. His parent’s expectations are high and Rory can’t afford to make mistakes.

However, Rory’s perfect life takes a turn when he meets Luca. Luca is effortlessly talented guy who consistently outshines Rory academically. This drives Rory insane. He’s determined to beat Luca at something. His opportunity is an academic camp competition. Rory hopes to distract Luca to gain the advantage but it doesn’t exactly go according to plan.

This had such great chemistry and a lot of laughs. I adored this entire book and I’ll definitely be bumping up ATWR on my TBR. This was a nice break from the more intense and Spicy books I’ve been reading lately!
1/5 🌶️

If you love great tension and banter and rivals to lovers you’ll love this!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! All thoughts are my own.

[Hanna K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Page Powars does it again! This was a very fun, very engaging read that had several of my favorite things, like rom-com shenanigans, super smart people, and enemies (?) to lovers! Even though Luca and Rory are geniuses in their own rights, they’re both very stupid about love. This book, as a byproduct of being about a summer camp for genius high school seniors, is kind of full of scientific and math terms, but it is still understandable. Do I know if the science is accurate? No. But it’s believable enough! I loved the climax of the story having to do with a math equation, I just wished we had a little more time for it to settle after. Give me one (to ten) more chapters of them settling into their relationship please!!!

Thanks NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book!

[Brooke! · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS WAS SO GOOD. i was kicking my feet giggling the entire time. i love luca and rory so much and the end im!!!! such fantastic writing and a great story!!!

[j3n · Rating 5 out of 5]

stop it rn this was so cute

[BookishKB · Rating 4 out of 5]

💔📚 But I Hate Him 📚💔

This was a cute queer YA romcom!

It’s a fairly short and easy to read romance. The antics between the different teams trying to sabotage each other were genuinely funny. I also really liked the competitive camp setting.

Overall, I really enjoyed this one!

🏳️‍🌈What to Expect
• Academic rivals
• Queer YA romcom
• Academic camp
• Overachiever MMC
• Hockey player MMC
• Enemies to lovers
_ _ _ _
⭐ Final Score: 3.75 Stars
📅 Pub Date: August 25, 2026
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Andreia · Rating 4 out of 5]

✎✧˚ Thank you to the author, Page Powars, and Netgalley for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

But I Hate Him by Page Powars is a lively and emotionally complex young adult romance that blends sharp humor with genuine coming-of-age depth. Set in a hyper-competitive academic summer camp, the novel follows Rory, a perfectionist student whose identity is tightly bound to achievement, and Luca, the effortlessly brilliant rival who constantly upends Rory’s carefully constructed world. What begins as a petty rivalry, fueled by jealousy, pressure, and one very public meltdown, evolves into a messy, heartfelt rivals-to-lovers story that is as entertaining as it is thoughtful.

One of the book’s biggest strengths is its tone. Powars strikes a compelling balance between laugh-out-loud moments and intense stress. The camp setting, with its chaotic labs, pranks, and competitive atmosphere, creates a vibrant backdrop that feels immersive and fun while also heightening the stakes. It’s easy to imagine teen readers, especially high-achieving students, seeing themselves reflected in Rory’s spiraling anxiety and relentless drive to succeed.

Rory himself is not always easy to like – but that’s precisely what makes him compelling. He’s flawed, often misguided, and occasionally frustrating in his choices, yet those qualities feel deliberate. His tendency to misread situations and push himself too far under parental and academic pressure gives the story emotional weight. Luca, in contrast, brings a grounding presence. His dynamic with Rory is electric from the start, and the shift from antagonism to vulnerability is handled with care, making their connection feel genuine rather than rushed.

The romance is undoubtedly a highlight, but the novel doesn’t rely on it alone. Powars gives attention to friendships, rivalries, and family expectations, all of which contribute to Rory’s growth. The side characters, in particular, add charm and humor; many feel vivid enough to deserve their own stories. Another notable aspect is the book’s approach to identity. Rory’s trans identity is integrated naturally into the story – it informs his perspective but never defines him. Instead, the narrative focuses on broader themes of self-acceptance, agency, and disentangling one’s sense of worth from external expectations.

If there’s a drawback, it’s the pacing toward the end. After such a rich buildup, the conclusion can feel slightly abrupt, leaving us wishing for a glimpse into what comes next, especially given how much Rory grows over the course of the novel. Overall, But I Hate Him is a fun, messy, and honest read that delivers both rom-com energy and meaningful character development.

"They’re not giving me compliments or telling me why I deserve him. In fact, they’re dispensing soul-crushing insults. But they’re insults of who I used to be. I don’t have to fear what will happen once I shed my old self, because I already have. Now I’m Just Rory. The one who ripped apart a project board and who told his parents how exhausted he is."

[Sol✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Page Powars, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, and Netgalley for access to this Advanced Reader's Copy of But I Hate Him. This is my honest and unbiased review.

----
"I always liked you because of who you are when you think I'm not watching. And what you tried to hide when you knew I was.
----

But I Hate Him is a heart-warming glimpse into the consequences of having a manufactured image and how the cracks and mistakes in a person's image that makes them worthy of love. The story is bursting with messily genuine characters who are all hoping to validate themselves beyond the expectations society has placed on them, even at the cost of their own hopes and dreams. Powars quirky dialogue and lush descriptions weave a memorable queer love story that will make you giggle and kick your feet in joy.

Page Powars is an auto-buy author for me anyway, and But I Hate Him is receiving the same shout praise from the rooftops treatment that he deserves. Aside from the academic summer camp setting really hitting for me as a science lover and recovered overachiever, the chapter titles absolutely had me rolling.

Rory is an (often unintentionally) hysterical character that is so devastatingly intelligent and driven to succeed that he has forgotten what it means to live your life at 17. I loved how his confidence in being trans, intelligent, and handsome was tightly interwoven with the image his parents had crafted for him without taking away from his ability to be a highly relatable character. I felt for him deeply, with his frustration of never being as good as he is expected to be really hitting home. His entire life nearly unraveling over a smoothie really speaks to the fragility of public persona.

Luca, Rory's sworn academic rival, is the opposite of Rory in many ways. He's athletic, oblivious of the opinions of others, and wildly loved by his peers and family. Luca is a genuinely warm character, the kind of guy that you would definitely have a summer camp crush on that goes out of his way to choose kindness over competition. Luca's earnest personality in combination with Rory's high-tension, high-anxiety loathing him ignites a truly stunning relationship that is stripped bare of pre-conceived notions and expectations.

I absolutely ADORED Luca and Rory is a couple, even when Rory was actively trying to sabotage them. It is so refreshing to read queer love stories that don't require trauma or tragedy to work out. Powars excels at creating believable happy endings that bring happy little tears to my eyes every single time. Bravo, Page! Luca and Rory for life.

(PS I need an epilogue of them after BRAIN camp because please please please)

[Rhiannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first Page Powars book, but certainly not my last!

I don't read much YA these days, largely because the premises are often a little outlandish and silly, and I'd be lying if I said that wasn't the case here. Rory, our MC, is the poster child of Prince List, a well-known, influential tutoring company owned by his parents, and his life is...complicated. His parents have strict rules for how Rory is to conduct his life with the goal of ensuring Prince List's image stays spotless. And, in a lot of ways, that works for Rory. He's super-smart and spends all of his time studying and working toward his scientific goals; he doesn't have time for trivial things like dating or making friends. His one major downfall is Luca Melendez, who has beat him in 35 science competitions over the years.

After a PR nightmare of a situation takes place between Rory and Luca at yet another science competition, the future that Rory and his parents have worked so hard to secure for him is suddenly at risk. As a last resort, he decides to attend BRAIN's summer camp in hopes of winning the Medal of Victory and the coveted Ivy League admission he'd receive as a result, but then his plans once again feel thwarted when Luca shows up, too.

Amidst the so-called BRAIN Wars that take place over the course of the camp, Rory strategizes to destroy Luca's chances of winning by making him fall in love with Rory...and then breaking his heart. But as the two boys spend more time together and get to know one another in ways they haven't had the chance to before, Rory realizes yet another one of his plans are being destroyed by Luca—and Rory's suddenly very real feelings for him.

I really enjoyed Rory's arc throughout this book and the ways in which he was able to figure out who he was and what he wanted outside of his parents' expectations. His budding relationship with Luca was really sweet, although, admittedly, I would've loved to have seen a little more of them together once they patched things up between them. The science-y aspect was fun, and everyone knows I can't resist a character who doubles as a great hockey player.

If you've read Page's other books and enjoyed them or just want a cute, fast-paced rom-com with queer and trans rep, this one should definitely be on your list!

Thank you to NetGalley and Roaring Book Press for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review!

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an e-ARC and am giving my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this opportunity!

Page Powars does it again. Starting the book to the dedication was absolutely hilarious, I was giggling for ages over it.

One thing that I thought was so funny but also really neat was that this book, arguably, taught me 10x more than any dark *academia* book ever has. It was filled with facts and information tied to the characters' expertise that really solidified the experience that was this book. Also, Rory being trans was treated so wonderfully. It was normalized, there was little-to-no transphobia (which isn't realistic but sometimes realism isn't best, y'know?) but it was there. Rory doing his testosterone gel, wondering if Luca knows he's trans, all things I've also experienced as a trans man but without the violent fear you feel, which was refreshing. I really loved that. It also really emphasized his parents' pressure on him as you weren't focused on them being transphobic, which then outweighs the rest of their actions. They aren't being super transphobic, so you're forced to pay attention to their other behavior. Brilliantly done.

I also adored the relationships throughout the novel. How Rory connected to each person, but how Rory was also an unreliable narrator. So we only see what we think is the relationship he has with others. It was so brilliantly written as Rory is such a smart person, we forget he can be wrong about things. I loved seeing everything unfold, what Rory was wrong about and what I just went along with.

Powars does a phenomenal job, once again, of making me root for the main character while simultaneously watching them royally screw up in a way that invokes such powerful secondhand embarrassment that I physically couldn't look at my Kindle. Good lord. I don't miss being 17.

I really just loved this. A trans MM romance that didn't make the trans character's being-trans a main focal point/problem, along with being queer, in general, now that I think about it. While this is certainly necessary in some books, it's refreshing to not have to think about it in some romances. To simply enjoy two boys dancing around each other and their feelings, without the pressure of homophobia or transphobia for once.

This is perfect for fans of trans romances, rivals-to-lovers, (early season 2) Buddie, LonelyEyes (Magnus Archives), or Klance.

[Lexie Kauffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

But I Hate Him by Page Powars - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Somehow, against all of the impressive science knowledge in this book, Page Powars built a time machine.

“But I Hate Him” instantly transports its readers to their teenage days with all of the swirling emotions that come with growing up, facing your post-high school life, and navigating the confusing world of having a crush.

SLIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD:

When you’re a teenager, like Rory (the main character and narrator), everything feels big. Everything feels like the end of the world, and sometimes everyone around you treats it as such. The fluctuating emotions and anxiety throughout this book are palpable and so real. Rory feels like everyone is always watching him and judging him, just waiting for him to mess up. While that may be true in some cases, “But I Hate Him” reveals how unreliable our own accounts of life can be. I wish I had this book as a teenager simply to show me how incorrectly I was interpreting social situations.

(Side note: Page Powars did a PHENOMENAL job at writing an unreliable narrator while still hinting to the readers that Rory’s perception of the world might not be 100% accurate).

While I was rooting for the heartfelt teenage romance, I was mainly hoping that Rory would break out of the walls of pressure that were built around him and his academic success. I was rooting for his personal growth instead of the romance (don’t get me wrong—I still wanted the romance) and there was something so refreshing about that.

I also appreciated how loving, oblivious, and real Luca felt. This novel contains some commentary on class, and Luca was a touchstone for readers who did not grow up wealthy. He remained steady and sweet throughout the book, a needed constant to Rory’s anxious, spiraling mind.

“But I Hate Him” is hilarious. From the witty banter, to the pop culture references (I screamed when Jack Hughes was mentioned), to the out-of-pocket chapter titles, this book is chock full of comedy. I haven’t seen chapter titles this unique, thought-out, and funny since the early Percy Jackson days!

END OF SLIGHT SPOILERS.

After his first 2 novels, I had high expectations for this book, and Page Powars has done it again! It’s funny, heartfelt, and real. This is an exploration of teenage identity and pressure, and it is beautiful.

Thank you to Page Powars, Fierce Reads, and BookCon for providing me with the ARC. “But I Hate Him” releases on August 25, 2026 and is available wherever books are sold.

[donutdot · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc!!

this was so good i'm actually (metaphorically) sobbing on my knees. firstly, chef's kiss to the freaking gorgeous cover that just absolutely captures luca's charm and rory's uptightness? and even the title is so apt.

speaking of which, i love the chapter titles too!! it feels very ao3 oneshot descriptions but captures the teenage angst so well.

i love camp stories, the away from home feeling that makes everything possible. i'm not a stem nerd by far, but i loved the whole brain camp setting and i thought the tests were very easy to follow. the brain wars (aka pranks) was fun to read too.

thing is, i love rory as a character. i might not be famous with parents with a fixed path for my life, but in some twisted way, i do understand that need to win, and how hard it can be to let go of that. and of course the self sabotaging and assuming the worst of a situation and others. he is a teenager, but page powars has mastered the craft of making him not sound obnoxious and actually someone i want to root for.

the main attraction was of course rory and luca. ahhh if there is one thing i love more than academic rivalry, it is the comedy and tragedy that is one-sided academic rivalry!! yes rory was vindictive at the beginning but it can really be blamed on his upbringing. i thought their chemistry was great and i loved the 'prince charming' nickname for rory. yes it is cliche af too that luca has always liked rory from afar, even before they 'met' for the first time when rory threw a smoothie at him (not a spoiler, it is in chapter one) the way luca's happiness is infectious and actually breaks down rory's walls is awesome and i love that it made him a freer person at the end.

"because he isn't an afterthought— luca has never been an afterthought. not during all those years. he's been on my mind. constantly." the yearning, y'alls!!!

"he understands me. just rory. finally, after so many years, i understand him, too." perfectly satisfying ending.

the found family of cabin omega was cute too. i think jade and christiana are cute af (i want to read their story too!!) and benedict. rival families could've made for The Story, but the power of luca and rory is too much. i loved watching the cabin's enemies to teammates dynamic.

also, trans rights!! it was brought up a few times and our mc rory is trans. i liked how seamlessly it was weaved into the story.

more please!!

[Astrophel Beeneedssleep · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Roaring Brook Press for an arc. All opinions are my own.

★ Rating: 5/5
Genre: Romance
Are There Gay People in this?*: ✅

You guys don't know how badly I needed this book. I cried several times while I was reading this just because I was having so much fun after months of a really rough reading slump and tons of irl stress.

Anyways, this book was a cover to cover banger. Every single chapter title made me laugh out loud, and the drama was so good that my bestie (who I literally had to call to talk about this with because not having anyone to talk to about this book would have probably killed me), was just as obsessed and invested as I was from just my recaps. Page Powars should teach a masterclass on writing characters who are so smart but also the dumbest person to ever walk the planet. All of these characters are super ultra geniuses btw, to a degree that is totally absurd. Like, my king Rory DISCOVERED 13 PLANETS! AND NO ONE BUT LUCA ACKNOWLEDGES IT???? Hello????? I feel like the "teenager who is somehow the best to ever do it" trope can bother me in other books, but Page Powars books just have that special sauce.

This book is so good I think it made me a worse person. Cause like, in general I think people should be able to accept criticism of their favorite things and be okay with hearing negative opinions on books they loved, but this is my one singular exception. I'm sorry but I will refuse to hear any hate for this book. If you don't like it I will be forced to assume your heart is cold and whimsyless.

Also, I didn't think I would like this more than And They Were Roommates (which I considered the gold standard for fun unserious romances), but omg this book was somehow better. Might be dethroning The Everlasting as my fave book of all time tbh, but only time can tell.

* I count a book as including gay people if any of the main or secondary characters are implicitly or explicitly queer or trans. This does not necessarily mean the protagonist is queer or that there is a queer romance

[Lupin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was viscerally reminded of how cringe and embarrassing it is to be a teenager in high school, oh my god. This definitely lands better for its intended YA audience, because bearing the foresight I have now made me read the whole book with a wince.

Rory is not the most likable character, and my main gripe came from his upbringing. While understandable that he'd act like a mini control freak because of his mom, I hated how entitled he felt towards winning. He comes from such a privileged background and it soured the rivalry with Luca for me. It already felt off to me since it was a one-sided rivalry, and I desperately wished Rory would leave Luca alone. I didn't like his superiority OR inferiority complex. It felt exhausting reading from his POV, watching him misconstrue everything to be the worst (even if it's incredibly realistic).

I felt lukewarm about their romance due to Rory's character. I just wasn't sure what he was adding to the romance when it felt like Luca was offering more than him. I would've warmed up to Rory more if I had seen him challenge his parents' wants for him more, or if he had shown any ounce of empathy for anyone else instead of staying inside of his head.

I had a similar upbringing to Rory, so I feel somewhat strongly about his behavior towards the other teens in the book. It was immersion breaking seeing how callous he was being, and I couldn't like him. He reminds me of people I've gone out of my way to avoid, so I found it hard others could tolerate him (who weren't just as insufferable).

Aside from that, the physics solution at the end was a nice touch. It's easily understandable to those who don't know much about physics and is correct for those who do. I liked that it was a simple answer, since I was overcomplicating it in my head.

It's still a cute queer YA romance that feels important for LGBTQ+ youth, and I think the ending is decent (even if I think it could've used more development for a heavier emotional impact). LGBTQ+ teens, now more than ever, deserve to see their happy endings.

[Shilo Quetchenbach · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this!

I've been so impressed by Page Powars' books, and they just keep getting better. And the trans rep in them is excellent.

This book has a trans teen with very controlling parents who determine every part of his life for him, with a long list of rules he must follow in order to not let their company, an elite tutoring program, down. After losing his temper after being unfairly shown up at an academic competition, again, the only summer program his parents can get to agree to take him is the BRAIN wars.

I enjoyed this book so much, watching a group of very different very intelligent kids trying to get along, learning to trust one another and that maybe life is about more than just winning academic competitions.

It was especially nostalgic for me, after attending Caltech as an undergraduate after a very sheltered and strict upbringing. A lot of what went on at the BRAIN wars was very similar to being an undergraduate at Caltech.

For those without that context... have you ever watched Real Genius with Val Kilmer? that will give you an idea of what I mean.

I especially appreciated that in this book Rory's drama never revolved around the fact of being trans. That was just a part of him that everyone accepted and that he'd already done all the soul searching around in the past. Because trans people exist and our lives don't revolve entirely around being trans.

All of the characters were quirky and weird and wonderful. I really enjoyed gradually getting to know them. In fact I wish we'd gotten to spend even more time getting to know them. A lot of the drama took place in Rory's head which was necessary to the plot but distracted a bit from the other characters.

I would have happily read a book that was twice as long in order to have more of the small moments of connection with the other characters.

*Thanks to NetGalley and Roaring Book Press for providing an early copy for review.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the early copy!

I actually requested this not even realizing it was YA, but I’m so glad I did. It was such a breath of fresh air to read a book with a trans MC where it didn't feel like a textbook. His family (aside from them still wanting him to be the poster child for the company) accepted and supported his transistion. There’s this one part where Luca basically tells Rory he was beautiful before and he's handsome now, and it was just sweet. We need more books where trans kids just get to exist without a constant debate or monologue about "what it all means".

​The best part for me was watching Rory try to figure out who he actually is when he’s not being the "poster child" for his parents' tutoring company. He spent so much time trying to be perfect for Prince List that he didn't really have a life. Seeing him finally find himself at the camp was honestly great...even if there were a lot of 'fun' lessons along the way. When your parents raise you to be one way, it's very hard to veer off that path. I was very proud of Rory by the end of this book. I wish there was an epilogue and I hope in the final publish copy there is one. Please tell me they end up at the same college. Please. I'm begging you.

​The academic rivals to lovers vibe was great. The chapter titles really set the tone for what was going to happen in each chapter. I didn't think I'd like it because sometime we're silly along but it definitely grew on me. It’s 100% a bit "convenient" that Luca has secretly been obsessed with Rory forever while Rory thought he was invisible, but honestly, it was too cute to care that much. I’m giving it a 4 star because sometimes the teenage drama and the lying made me want to shake them, but overall it was a super quick, funny read. If you want a queer rom-com that is actually really good for teens, this is it.

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as an ARC provided by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Let me start by saying this book was a first for me. I'm typically found reading spicy novels including many different dark tropes (some being questionable) and typically never anything young adult. That being said, this was also my first ever MM book. I'm always nervous reading this type of novel (YA, high school, science-y), worrying it was outside of my comfort zone or I just wont "get it". But when I was looking on NetGalley, this novel just called to me. This book checked all the boxes I never knew I had.

Rory, a teenage boy with far too much pressure put on him by both his parents and society. Luca, a teenage boy who seems to have it all together, constantly beating Rory in their academic challenges. Or so it seems... This book is an awakening for both Rory and the reader. It embodies a message that us, as a society, should practice every day:

1. Only you can change your life. You just have to be brave enough to take the first step
2. You never know what someone else is going through, be kind

This book perfectly encompassed Rory's struggles to the point that I was feeling them myself. I felt like I was at BRAIN, competing in a competition I am severely underqualified for, playing pranks, discovering who I am, and building unbreakable bonds that I never saw coming.

While this book was outside of my typical reads, I truly and thoroughly enjoyed it. You WILL see more reviews from me with MM books.

And Rory, you'll always have a special place in my heart.

P.S. The chapter titles are everything - I will no longer accept boring typical numbered chapters

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rory's parent's run the most successful tutoring company in the world and Rory, like it or not, is the face of that company. Even him coming out as trans was spun to make their clients happy. Rory goes along with it all with the hopes that one day once he gets to college he can finally be out from his parent's thumb. Only he makes one REALLY big mistake when he throws a smoothie at his long time rival, the perfect Luca, who constantly beats him at every academic competition. With one last chance to get his plan back in order and sent to a competitive academic camp, the last person Rory expects to see there is Luca!

Listen, Rory is so smart but so dumb and I love him so much. He really does not see what's right before his eyes with Luca. He's been so beaten down by his parent's rules and expectations for his whole life he truly cannot believe Luca could ever like him for himself and not the fake version Rory puts on for his parents and their company. I just want to wrap him in a warm hug.

I enjoyed Rory's interactions with his roommates/teammates. It was fun to see Rory not only grow but also come out of their shell a bit being around new people that they typically wouldn't. I really hope Rory and Benedict actually do become good friends after the book ends.

Oh Rory and Luca! Their interactions were so sweet and so cute. The attempts at flirting, poor Rory just not getting it. Sweet Rory and his slow but steady character development. This was really a sweet story! My one big sadness was the lack of an epilogue, I would so love to know where they ended up after the end of story.

Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Roaring Brook Press and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. I read this it one day, it’s so good! Rory Prince is academic royalty so to speak. His parents run Prince List, a tutoring company that is super successful and uses Rory’s own genius to promote its success. His parents expect him to be great and everything he does reflects on the company. Even when he transitioned they cared more about how to make it work for the company than for his own feelings. Not that being perfect is a problem for him he wins a lot of competitions, unfortunately he always loses to one person. Luca Melendez always beats him and barely seems to put any effort into it either. And this last loss is one too many for Rory and he has a very public reaction, one that’s caught on video. His parents are pissed and now his plans for his future are going up in smoke. They only have one chance, he’ll have to attend the camp BRAIN, and win their exclusive Medal of Victory. With that win he may have a chance to fix his reputation and save his parent’s company. The only problem is that when he arrives he finds that his enemy, Luca, has also come to BRAIN. Now does he have a shot at winning? He quickly realizes there is one way make Luca fall in love with him and then break his heart. That way he’ll be too broken to succeed. Only falling for Luca wasn’t part of the plan. Now he has to choose winning the competition or getting the guy. This has to be one of my favorite Page Powers books! I loved Rory, Luca, and Rory’s cabin mates! I was quickly sucked in and I couldn’t put it down! Charming, sweet, and freakin adorable! Highly recommend!

[Lucy Larsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would first like to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I must start by saying that the only other Page Powers book I have read is And They Were Roommates and if you liked that book, you will like this book. Having only read those two, it seems like these books are extremely similar – there are some differences, but they mirror each other really closely. It was a very fun read, and I did enjoy some of the shenanigans that the characters got up to. I really enjoyed all the fun chapter titles. I was dreading the ending and how the great reveal would happen all the way up until it did, and it ended up being very good. I did kind of wish there was an epilogue or a bit more to the story in the end.

The only reason I didn’t give this book a 5 out of 5 star rating was mostly because I think some of the STEM elements of the book were a bit hard to follow. This is mostly because I felt like the story would be very vaguely referencing some element they were studying and then randomly there would be a paragraph or two using actual formulas or detailed information. It kept throwing me out of the story and left me kind of annoyed. It almost felt like the author was trying to show off their STEM knowledge rather than the character’s doing so because it was so oddly placed.

Overall, I would rate this book a 4 out of 5 star rating. A very good YA read with queer characters for a YA audience.

[☾arina⭐︎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rory has been sheltered since he was a child. He’s the face of a very successful tutoring program created by his parents. His parents have drilled seven important rules into him that he must follow to stay on top of the food chain. His whole life has been eating, sleeping, and breathing academia. Getting to go to this exclusive camp, where only the smartest get to attend, gives him a breather from his meddling parents.

I love how fun and quirky his roommates are. They never bat an eye at their differences and work well together. There’s camaraderie and understanding when it comes to growing up under the pressure of their parents. Being at camp and getting to know one another opens their eyes to new possibilities. They’re also way too smart for my little brain to keep up, lol.

Rory is unintentionally funny. Here’s this super smart kid who’s having a one-sided feud and is oblivious to everyone’s true feelings, especially Luca’s and another character’s. All his thoughts can be summed up in the titles of each chapter. His obsession with taking down Luca puts him in sticky situations, which forces him to interact more closely with Luca. And oh, how he hates it. 😏

Luca is such a golden retriever. He’s always happy to be around Rory and is willing to help him loosen up. His dynamic with Rory has me smiling from ear to ear.

I do wish we had gotten an epilogue to see what everyone’s up to. I especially wanted to know how Rory’s parents are feeling after these new developments. I recommend it as a great palate cleanser with lovable characters.

Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the ARC.

[Lora | The Pink Couch Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC! This review was written by my 12yo son. He's the Pink Couch Books resident YA reader and reviewer:

But I Hate Him is a perfect blend of teenage summer romance and academic angst and competition. I ate this book up in a single day and was captivated the whole time reading it! The main character is trans and Powars does an incredible job at showing trans representation in the YA space. The book also had an incredible sense of humor and the chapter names had me smiling and giggling.

The side characters are incredibly well crafted and the story of Jade and Christiana was a good touch to help layer and give life to supporting characters. I absolutely LOVED Jade and Big Papa Huge Time! I especially loved the fact that she’s a princess and dresses all goth and doesn’t act proper like a regular princess should. She had an incredible personality and was probably my favorite side character.

The main characters also had very well crafted personalities. I loved Lucas' golden retriever and clueless vibe and him and Rory’s love story. Rory also had a fully developed personality which is one of the things I look for in a book. When you’re reading Page Powars, there is never a flat character and that is what I like most about his books.

In conclusion, But I Hate Him is an outstanding and amazing book I would recommend to any queer kids looking for an exciting book with exceptional writing.

[Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always have a good time with Page Powars’ books. I especially appreciated how in this book, Rory being trans was such a minuscule part of the story. It wasn’t ignored but it wasn’t the focus, and I love that we can have trans mc YA and it’s just a casual acknowledgment! I also always love Powars’ humor. Fun fact, but I really hate chapter titles for some reason. Not with Powars’ books. It honestly may have been one of my favorite parts; they’re just so ridiculous and funny.
I thought Luca was such a sweetheart and Rory was a bit of a mess, but it makes sense considering everything he’s been put through. I was nervous when I first started it because I didn’t think he was going to be at all likable, but Powars definitely approaches his character sympathetically. Don’t get me wrong, Rory is an absolute mess, but you can understand why. I will say that it kind of broke my heart to see how he wanted to hurt Luca, but again, he’s been through so much that it has genuinely warped his brain. Hilarious to see how Rory is so oblivious, he doesn’t even realize he’s winning the gold medal in the Oblivious Olympics.
I would’ve liked to see more of Rory and Luca post-camp, after Rory’s arc because I think they could’ve been very cute. I’ll also take a coming of age that just so happens to have some romance though.
#1 Luca warrior right here

Thank you to NetGalley and Roaring Book Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.