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Love and Other Equations
The list of things Lebo Khuto cannot afford is short, but failure is definitely at the top. So, when her rival and co-class rep, Enzo Langa, proposes an alliance after someone else beats them for the number one spot, she shakes hands with the enemy.
Determined to maintain her perfect record and tick off all the things on her list of goals, she's willing to spend every second it takes with the person she most hates.
The problem comes, of course, when she's no longer sure if it's still a pain to spend every morning and evening with Enzo-if their rivalry is taking on a more complex shape. As she struggles to keep up, to be her always perfect self, she decides to push away anything that goes against her plans.
Unfortunately, she comes to realise that her feelings aren't a Bio paper she can ace her way through without effort.
Determined to maintain her perfect record and tick off all the things on her list of goals, she's willing to spend every second it takes with the person she most hates.
The problem comes, of course, when she's no longer sure if it's still a pain to spend every morning and evening with Enzo-if their rivalry is taking on a more complex shape. As she struggles to keep up, to be her always perfect self, she decides to push away anything that goes against her plans.
Unfortunately, she comes to realise that her feelings aren't a Bio paper she can ace her way through without effort.
314 pages, Paperback
Published April 8, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was so good!
First of all, my gratitude goes to the author for giving me an e-ARC!
If there’s one thing about me, it’s that I will never say no to a YA rivals-to-lovers story! Whenever I see this genre and trope, I am instantly intrigued and this case was no exception!
The school setting was so perfect! It instantly started out very interesting as both main characters found out another student has overtaken them so they are both pushed into working harder and harder to reach their goals. And where does this lead them? To spend time together! So, should I say, (kinda) forced proximity vibes? Definitely!
I actually loved how the author chose to write it in a 3rd person’s POV because the reader gets to experience simultaneously the story from both of their perspectives. And let me tell you this… the way Enzo thinks about her… The “it’s always been you” trope hits so HARD because while it takes Lebo to grow feelings for him, Enzo has been crushing on her for so long!
And please, let me rave about Lebo’s character! Do you know the feeling when you’ve been effortlessly good at something (let’s say school) until you hit a hard rock and realize you’re falling behind? The way Lebo’s emotions and experience were written felt so natural and it made me connect with her even more! She had to push herself to keep studying, she craved to prove her teachers that she could do it. The words “I expected more from you” were her weakness and all her struggles with school were so real and I have no doubt that many other readers will think the same.
The romance between them was so innocent and sweet which is exactly what a YA book should have! It bloomed flawlessly throughout the story and it was so so cute! Just two teens making their way through school with high academic expectations while finding each other.
So if even one thing got your attention from this review, consider it your sign to pick up this book because it will not disappoint!
One thing I missed in the story was focusing more on them earning back their original spots (and whether they managed to do it). I was expecting it to be more of a big plot in the book but even the girl that surpassed them was barely mentioned but apart from that I am really satisfied!
I truly recommend this book!
First of all, my gratitude goes to the author for giving me an e-ARC!
If there’s one thing about me, it’s that I will never say no to a YA rivals-to-lovers story! Whenever I see this genre and trope, I am instantly intrigued and this case was no exception!
The school setting was so perfect! It instantly started out very interesting as both main characters found out another student has overtaken them so they are both pushed into working harder and harder to reach their goals. And where does this lead them? To spend time together! So, should I say, (kinda) forced proximity vibes? Definitely!
I actually loved how the author chose to write it in a 3rd person’s POV because the reader gets to experience simultaneously the story from both of their perspectives. And let me tell you this… the way Enzo thinks about her… The “it’s always been you” trope hits so HARD because while it takes Lebo to grow feelings for him, Enzo has been crushing on her for so long!
And please, let me rave about Lebo’s character! Do you know the feeling when you’ve been effortlessly good at something (let’s say school) until you hit a hard rock and realize you’re falling behind? The way Lebo’s emotions and experience were written felt so natural and it made me connect with her even more! She had to push herself to keep studying, she craved to prove her teachers that she could do it. The words “I expected more from you” were her weakness and all her struggles with school were so real and I have no doubt that many other readers will think the same.
The romance between them was so innocent and sweet which is exactly what a YA book should have! It bloomed flawlessly throughout the story and it was so so cute! Just two teens making their way through school with high academic expectations while finding each other.
So if even one thing got your attention from this review, consider it your sign to pick up this book because it will not disappoint!
One thing I missed in the story was focusing more on them earning back their original spots (and whether they managed to do it). I was expecting it to be more of a big plot in the book but even the girl that surpassed them was barely mentioned but apart from that I am really satisfied!
I truly recommend this book!
Review of advance copy
4.25
💕 ARC Review 🇿🇦
"With each passing year these feelings overpower me, pushing me towards peripheries of love I never dreamt of before. I grow more esurient for the enchanting melody of your laughter. I crave glimpses of your smile."
In this YA Romance, we meet Lebogang Khuto and Enzokuhle Langa.
Enzo has had a crush on Lebogang for sooo long - since he was 10. 🥰
"You mention that you think a girl in your class is cute on the first day of grade 5 and your sister never stops bringing it up."
Meanwhile, Lebo is so focused on school, she can't be bothered with the handsome boy who always teases her and is her main competition in school. 💔
"I don’t understand how everyone loves him. He sucks. He’s a huge flirt, he’s egotistical, he hates choc-mint ice cream.”
They're in grade 11 in a school in South Africa and these two have been trades places at the top, switching positions throughout the years for the top first and second in their class.
But now, someone else has claimed the top spot!
With their competitive spirit, teenage awkwardness, and young love whispering, can they get through the end of the school year working together to rise to the top?
💗 I loved the slow burn tension from beginning to end! This just felt so cozy and like we were ramping up the tension with a ratchet the further we went.
I was pretty competitive in school (and still am now), so I immediately felt a kinship with both Lebo and Enzo. I was rooting for both of them all the way.
As they spent more time with each other, I adored the push and pull of each. It felt natural, but left me wondering where we would end up.
I really liked this book. The Sepedi used was a fun bonus - I love when there are multiple languages, especially one I haven't tried to learn. 😍
If you like the Anne/Gilbert tension from Anne of Green Gables, Rory from Gilmore Girls, or you're looking for a clean YA romance, you may like this book.
Triggers: Grief
💕 ARC Review 🇿🇦
"With each passing year these feelings overpower me, pushing me towards peripheries of love I never dreamt of before. I grow more esurient for the enchanting melody of your laughter. I crave glimpses of your smile."
In this YA Romance, we meet Lebogang Khuto and Enzokuhle Langa.
Enzo has had a crush on Lebogang for sooo long - since he was 10. 🥰
"You mention that you think a girl in your class is cute on the first day of grade 5 and your sister never stops bringing it up."
Meanwhile, Lebo is so focused on school, she can't be bothered with the handsome boy who always teases her and is her main competition in school. 💔
"I don’t understand how everyone loves him. He sucks. He’s a huge flirt, he’s egotistical, he hates choc-mint ice cream.”
They're in grade 11 in a school in South Africa and these two have been trades places at the top, switching positions throughout the years for the top first and second in their class.
But now, someone else has claimed the top spot!
With their competitive spirit, teenage awkwardness, and young love whispering, can they get through the end of the school year working together to rise to the top?
💗 I loved the slow burn tension from beginning to end! This just felt so cozy and like we were ramping up the tension with a ratchet the further we went.
I was pretty competitive in school (and still am now), so I immediately felt a kinship with both Lebo and Enzo. I was rooting for both of them all the way.
As they spent more time with each other, I adored the push and pull of each. It felt natural, but left me wondering where we would end up.
I really liked this book. The Sepedi used was a fun bonus - I love when there are multiple languages, especially one I haven't tried to learn. 😍
If you like the Anne/Gilbert tension from Anne of Green Gables, Rory from Gilmore Girls, or you're looking for a clean YA romance, you may like this book.
Triggers: Grief
Review of advance copy received from Author
i have never been so sad to be one of the first people to read a book before it’s published…
…because i don’t have anyone to talk about it.
a slooow burn academic rivals to lovers story well-executed.
Lebo and Enzo were relatable characters in terms of showcasing how academic pressure affects a person. once you’ve had a taste of being at the top, people will look up to you and expect you to consistently be at the top. which really happens in the academic setting, more often than not.
the representation of how parents could react is present as well, in Lebo’s mom and in Enzo’s dad. this actually gave both Lebo and Enzo’s characters depth, which was nice. Lebo’s backstory and the conflicts in her life gave her character as well.
the writing, overall, was impressive. dialogues were realistic; the banters made my heart flutter rather than cringe, which i think is really important for the rivals to lovers trope.
i really enjoyed this book. it was light, a quick read, fun, and oh so cute.
also, thank youuu, Katherin Key for this ARC! 💕
‼️A LITTLE SPOILERRR‼️
i was actually hoping to see if they managed to get their top 2 spots back since it was the initial goal of their alliance (aside from Enzo just wanting to be near Lebo). nevertheless, i still enjoyed the story!
…because i don’t have anyone to talk about it.
a slooow burn academic rivals to lovers story well-executed.
Lebo and Enzo were relatable characters in terms of showcasing how academic pressure affects a person. once you’ve had a taste of being at the top, people will look up to you and expect you to consistently be at the top. which really happens in the academic setting, more often than not.
the representation of how parents could react is present as well, in Lebo’s mom and in Enzo’s dad. this actually gave both Lebo and Enzo’s characters depth, which was nice. Lebo’s backstory and the conflicts in her life gave her character as well.
the writing, overall, was impressive. dialogues were realistic; the banters made my heart flutter rather than cringe, which i think is really important for the rivals to lovers trope.
i really enjoyed this book. it was light, a quick read, fun, and oh so cute.
also, thank youuu, Katherin Key for this ARC! 💕
‼️A LITTLE SPOILERRR‼️
i was actually hoping to see if they managed to get their top 2 spots back since it was the initial goal of their alliance (aside from Enzo just wanting to be near Lebo). nevertheless, i still enjoyed the story!
April 1, 2026
first of all... i am SO SORRY for reading a book this slow (it is nothing on this book, it was AMAZING). i have realized that reading on an electronic (my insanely bright phone) is not for me.
BACK TO REVIEW MY FAV PART HEHEHE (sorry if this is short, i am going to get my point across without any spoilers but i can always add more later if needed!)
👀🫰
this story was amazing. if you love academic rivals to lovers like me, this is for you. it was definitely for me. it was such an adorable slow burn and everything was perfect.
enzo and lebo are such a cute couple. after someone takes their place as top student, they must study together (by enzo's persuasion- who, by the way, has liked smart and hardworking lebo since he was ten 😮🤭) and something blooms from there. 🥹🩷
a HUGE thank you to katherine for giving me a chance to read this before it is published on amazon in april! this is a wonderful book and you should definitely read it if you haven't already.
🩷🩷🩷
BACK TO REVIEW MY FAV PART HEHEHE (sorry if this is short, i am going to get my point across without any spoilers but i can always add more later if needed!)
👀🫰
this story was amazing. if you love academic rivals to lovers like me, this is for you. it was definitely for me. it was such an adorable slow burn and everything was perfect.
enzo and lebo are such a cute couple. after someone takes their place as top student, they must study together (by enzo's persuasion- who, by the way, has liked smart and hardworking lebo since he was ten 😮🤭) and something blooms from there. 🥹🩷
a HUGE thank you to katherine for giving me a chance to read this before it is published on amazon in april! this is a wonderful book and you should definitely read it if you haven't already.
🩷🩷🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
Academic Rivals to Lovers … SIGN ME UP!
This was a cute coming of age story of two teens, Lebo and Enzo, who, after years of competing for top student, lose the spot to someone else. Now they have to team up in order for one of them to regain what they believe is their rightful place at the top. Late night study sessions lead to long and heartfelt conversations where feelings long felt are revealed.
This story was so cute. I love a slow-burn romance and Lebo and Enzo definitely deliver, but for me, seeing them grow as people and come to terms with their issues regarding the expectations of the adults in their lives was the most important thing of this story.
SPOILERS:
I really wish we could’ve seen them be a happy couple longer and to see if one of them managed to get top spot back. 😁
This was a cute coming of age story of two teens, Lebo and Enzo, who, after years of competing for top student, lose the spot to someone else. Now they have to team up in order for one of them to regain what they believe is their rightful place at the top. Late night study sessions lead to long and heartfelt conversations where feelings long felt are revealed.
This story was so cute. I love a slow-burn romance and Lebo and Enzo definitely deliver, but for me, seeing them grow as people and come to terms with their issues regarding the expectations of the adults in their lives was the most important thing of this story.
SPOILERS:
I really wish we could’ve seen them be a happy couple longer and to see if one of them managed to get top spot back. 😁
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This was an absolutely refreshing experience 😌 I loved reading this book, it's safe to say that it is a great option to pick up when you're in a reading slump because of how good it is!
I loved to see how much the characters grew both individually and together. I especially loved the slow burn, the banter between the 2 main characters and how fast paced the book is, the plot? Chefs kiss.
I will be reading this again as soon as it is published. It's is a perfect 5 stars for me❤️
I loved to see how much the characters grew both individually and together. I especially loved the slow burn, the banter between the 2 main characters and how fast paced the book is, the plot? Chefs kiss.
I will be reading this again as soon as it is published. It's is a perfect 5 stars for me❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 stars!
I’m so happy I got the chance to read this book early because I really enjoyed the story.
This was the first time I’ve read this kind of “trope” (academic rivals), and I definitely loved it!
I really liked that we didn’t just get to see the love story between Lebo and Enzo, but also their personal growth. I’d love to read a little more about how things are going for them now that they’re in a relationship, so maybe a sequel...?
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
I’m so happy I got the chance to read this book early because I really enjoyed the story.
This was the first time I’ve read this kind of “trope” (academic rivals), and I definitely loved it!
I really liked that we didn’t just get to see the love story between Lebo and Enzo, but also their personal growth. I’d love to read a little more about how things are going for them now that they’re in a relationship, so maybe a sequel...?
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved the academic rivals to lovers theme! It felt like a cosy read and it felt pretty realistic too, especially the pressure about having to do well in school. I like how both characters agreed to set aside their differences and rivalry to help one another. The slow burn was definitely burning and i love it! It’s a bit pretty cute and cosy read🩷
April 13, 2026
It's like destiny finding this, a work of art that speaks to me hard, I love Lebo and her dynamic with Enzo, very jealous and adore the South African vibe. I have to ask are you a criminal cause you stole me heart, love to see more of your work
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so hooking from the start to the end! It was a great story that I enjoyed. The romance was also sweet and I think Enzo was such a sweet male character!! Definitely recommend reading!
April 7, 2026
This book was really good and cute.
I was admirative of the level of dedication that Enzo and Khuto shared and showed in their study. It almost gave me the motivation to study.
I liked Khuto character, even though she was painted to be this stuck up girl who only cared about her grade, I definitely understood her.
And Enzo, he was just trying and trying to get her attention. It was cute.
I think it was my first rival to lovers story and I definitely enjoyed it.
I was admirative of the level of dedication that Enzo and Khuto shared and showed in their study. It almost gave me the motivation to study.
I liked Khuto character, even though she was painted to be this stuck up girl who only cared about her grade, I definitely understood her.
And Enzo, he was just trying and trying to get her attention. It was cute.
I think it was my first rival to lovers story and I definitely enjoyed it.
May 17, 2026
Academic rivals to lovers, OMG yes! **** (for all the Ann Liang and Lynn Painter lovers <3)
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the author.
The list of things Lebo Khuto cannot afford is short, but failure is definitely at the top. So, when her rival and co-class rep, Enzo Langa, proposes an alliance after someone else beats them for the number one spot, she shakes hands with the enemy.
I absolutely love stories and books about academic pressure (I know this sounds a bit toxic, I’m aware of that, hehe). So I was really enjoying it. The book gave me kind of the same vibe as I Hope This One Doesn’t Find You by Ann Liang (which is one of my all-time favorites). So if you liked that book, I highly recommend this one!
Plus, the characters are just so sweet! (Swoon warning: this guy has been in love with her for a VERY long time, and it’s the cutest thing ever)
The story is written in a smooth, flowing style, and the atmosphere is beautifully captured. Why isn’t it 5 stars? Sometimes the POVs seem to shift a bit in the middle of a paragraph, and I found that a little hard to read at times. Other than that, it was truly AMAZING!!!
I’m really, really hoping for more books like this: how are these two doing in college?!
This book is a must-read for all fans of cute, soft-burn romances, anyone who hopes their childhood crush is in love with them, and anyone who sometimes feels a little too much academic pressure (it’ll be okay <3)
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to the author.
The list of things Lebo Khuto cannot afford is short, but failure is definitely at the top. So, when her rival and co-class rep, Enzo Langa, proposes an alliance after someone else beats them for the number one spot, she shakes hands with the enemy.
I absolutely love stories and books about academic pressure (I know this sounds a bit toxic, I’m aware of that, hehe). So I was really enjoying it. The book gave me kind of the same vibe as I Hope This One Doesn’t Find You by Ann Liang (which is one of my all-time favorites). So if you liked that book, I highly recommend this one!
Plus, the characters are just so sweet! (Swoon warning: this guy has been in love with her for a VERY long time, and it’s the cutest thing ever)
The story is written in a smooth, flowing style, and the atmosphere is beautifully captured. Why isn’t it 5 stars? Sometimes the POVs seem to shift a bit in the middle of a paragraph, and I found that a little hard to read at times. Other than that, it was truly AMAZING!!!
I’m really, really hoping for more books like this: how are these two doing in college?!
This book is a must-read for all fans of cute, soft-burn romances, anyone who hopes their childhood crush is in love with them, and anyone who sometimes feels a little too much academic pressure (it’ll be okay <3)
Review of advance copy received from Author
top tier level of academic rivals! lebo and enzo's story shows so much of what its like growing up in this generation. love them both!
and of course, thank you to katherine key for giving me an arc! so much love to you, miss katherine! hoping for more books to come 🫶🫶🫶
and of course, thank you to katherine key for giving me an arc! so much love to you, miss katherine! hoping for more books to come 🫶🫶🫶
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews