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Hating Sam Slater
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Expected 25 Mar 26Win a free print copy of this book!
14 days and 23:39:57
3 copies available
U.S. only
A popstar turned actor. A romcom diva looking for a comeback. Cue the chaos.
KAYLA
I did it. I made the jump from childhood star to adult romcom darling. I smiled for the cameras and played by the rules—until I didn’t.
Now I’m paying for it. My comeback requires me to co-star with a former British boybander who’s as manufactured as processed cheese. The studio wants chemistry. The internet wants drama. They call this optics. I call it exhausting.
Problem is, the boybander is unfairly hot and annoyingly decent. But I’ve spent too much time behaving and keeping quiet like a good girl.
This time I have opinions. And I’m done playing nice.
SAM
I’m trying to be an actor. But when everything about your life was choreographed except your dance moves, nobody takes you seriously. I always toed the line, which got me exactly what I wanted. Until now.
I was hyped to star opposite the brilliant Kayla Prescott...and then I met her. She’s got a chip on her shoulder the size of Big Ben. Fair enough. Hollywood chewed her up, spit her out, and called her a diva for good measure.
She suspects my attraction to her is courtesy of the PR machine. But maybe I have something to prove to myself, even if it makes things messy for both of us.
And if it follows a romcom script…it absolutely will.
KAYLA
I did it. I made the jump from childhood star to adult romcom darling. I smiled for the cameras and played by the rules—until I didn’t.
Now I’m paying for it. My comeback requires me to co-star with a former British boybander who’s as manufactured as processed cheese. The studio wants chemistry. The internet wants drama. They call this optics. I call it exhausting.
Problem is, the boybander is unfairly hot and annoyingly decent. But I’ve spent too much time behaving and keeping quiet like a good girl.
This time I have opinions. And I’m done playing nice.
SAM
I’m trying to be an actor. But when everything about your life was choreographed except your dance moves, nobody takes you seriously. I always toed the line, which got me exactly what I wanted. Until now.
I was hyped to star opposite the brilliant Kayla Prescott...and then I met her. She’s got a chip on her shoulder the size of Big Ben. Fair enough. Hollywood chewed her up, spit her out, and called her a diva for good measure.
She suspects my attraction to her is courtesy of the PR machine. But maybe I have something to prove to myself, even if it makes things messy for both of us.
And if it follows a romcom script…it absolutely will.
- GenresRomance
285 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 25, 2026
6 people are currently reading
3430 people want to read
About the author
Carol Ericson
343 books135 followersBest-selling, award-winning romance author, Carol Ericson, has written more than 65 books, mostly romantic suspense for Harlequin Intrigue. Also indie pubbed, Carol is working on a spicy popstar romcom series about five members of a boyband. A California girl and graduate of UCLA, Carol lives near the beach with her husband and their giant dog. For more information about Carol’s books, please visit her website at www.authorcarolericson.com and follow her on Instagram @author.carol.ericson
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 18, 2026
I feel extremely fortunate to have received another ARC from Carol Ericson
Getting early access to this series has been such a fun ride, and as a total boyband fan… this book felt especially made for readers like me.
This was such a cute, fast read — I finished it in less than 48 hours because I genuinely did not want to put it down.
From the very beginning, the banter pulled me in. The back-and-forth between Kayla and Sam had me smiling constantly. It felt natural, witty, and full of that tension that makes you keep turning pages “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 2AM.
Kayla (FMC) was definitely a grouch — guarded, stubborn, and carrying her own walls — but that only made her character growth more satisfying. Watching her slowly soften, little by little, especially in her moments with Sam, made the emotional payoff hit so much harder.
And Sam… I cannot say this enough — I loved him.
He was patient, caring, and so genuine that it was impossible not to root for him. Even when Kayla pushed him away, he never lost that steady presence. You could feel how much he cared, and it made me want his HEA even more.
I found myself constantly rooting for him — wanting him to get the love he deserved, wanting her to see what was right in front of her.
Their journey was sweet, emotional, and full of those quiet moments that make romance so special — the looks, the tension, the almosts.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable, heart-warming read with great chemistry, fun boyband nostalgia, and characters that made me feel.
Cute, quick, emotional, and absolutely worth the read 💙
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I DON'T HATE SAM SLATER, in fact I LOVE him and Kayla Prescott!
This is the 3rd book in the Five2Go Boyband Series.
Sam is 3rd member/hearth-rob in the once popular British Boy-band, Five2Go.
I enjoyed both stories (Saving Ian Pope) & (Sweet on Charlie Beck) as well.
Kayla was a beloved child TV star who transitioned into young adult movies and then into popular rom-coms. Then, she was labeled as a difficult-to-work-with-Diva.
Sam and Kayla are going to work together in a new romcom.
From the first scene at The Ivy, I could feel the cold and distant attitude between Sam and Kayla as well as their warm attraction to each other.
The arguing begins immediately: Sam offends Kayla by saying she is older than her stated age and she plunges in saying that he was never her favorite band mate.
The laughs continue when Sam and Kayla are having lunch at Kayla's house and her mother walks in telling Sam that he was Kayla's favorite: she had posters and even a pillow of Sam's face on it. LOL
Supporting characters Dean and Cammie Rae build the story and adds to the depths of Sam's and Kayla's characters, which raised this book to a higher level than I expected.
The flashbacks to a younger Kayla and Sam melted my heart <3
This story is beautifully written, the characters are well developed, and the world building is incredible, I felt I was on the movie set and behind the scenes with them as well.
*Thank you to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
This is the 3rd book in the Five2Go Boyband Series.
Sam is 3rd member/hearth-rob in the once popular British Boy-band, Five2Go.
I enjoyed both stories (Saving Ian Pope) & (Sweet on Charlie Beck) as well.
Kayla was a beloved child TV star who transitioned into young adult movies and then into popular rom-coms. Then, she was labeled as a difficult-to-work-with-Diva.
Sam and Kayla are going to work together in a new romcom.
From the first scene at The Ivy, I could feel the cold and distant attitude between Sam and Kayla as well as their warm attraction to each other.
The arguing begins immediately: Sam offends Kayla by saying she is older than her stated age and she plunges in saying that he was never her favorite band mate.
The laughs continue when Sam and Kayla are having lunch at Kayla's house and her mother walks in telling Sam that he was Kayla's favorite: she had posters and even a pillow of Sam's face on it. LOL
Supporting characters Dean and Cammie Rae build the story and adds to the depths of Sam's and Kayla's characters, which raised this book to a higher level than I expected.
The flashbacks to a younger Kayla and Sam melted my heart <3
This story is beautifully written, the characters are well developed, and the world building is incredible, I felt I was on the movie set and behind the scenes with them as well.
*Thank you to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
for all my fellow east asians: this book reminds me of white rice porridge. take that how you will
I haven't read any of the other books in the series, which, in my opinion, should not be a requirement.
My first ARC! This has so much sentimental value, so thank you so much!
I want to preface this by saying this writing style just wasn't for me. Which is fine; I mean, the same style isn't going to fit everyone and hey! that's alright. The sentences felt very choppy, rushed, and very unnatural. Might just be a me problem, though.
EDITING:
I understand that this is an ARC which means it will not be perfect. Keeping that in mind, I do think this book could do with a good round of grammar/punctuation editing. There are many places here that don't have proper quotation marks. One particularly memorable moment was when the book suddenly changed to third person in the middle of a first person POV.
PLOT:
I didn't like the insta-love portion. I never got any chemistry between the two and there didn't seem to be much connection. It kind of just seemed... sporadic. The conflicts between the two were resolved way too quickly without enough communication and that really just irks me in books. The plot almost didn't need to happen. Like, I feel like we would've ended the same way if they'd been left in a restaurant all by themselves for a week.
NOTE ON SLANG:
This book is very present-generation-esque. The characters use words like "troll", "girl" and "giving". Kayla is referred to as a "diva" in the entirety of the book but it's meant as a insult. In this day and age, "diva" is no longer an insult. On the contrary, it's more of a compliment. So, if people were spreading rumors about her being a diva, they likely would choose a different word as the connotations of "diva" have changed rather quickly.
THE CHARACTERS:
None of the characters acted their age. You could've told me they were 19 and I would've believed you.
Kayla walks the thin line between being very annoyingly overconfident and being a, as the present generation would call it, an absolute DIVA. There are only so many times you can refer to yourself as a "bad bitch" before it gets irritating. In the beginning of the book, she is also very prone to tripping, which honestly just makes me mad because... You can't be a strong independent woman if you literally trip ten times in two pages. No. No thank you!
Sam has really no character whatsoever. He's just... a soggy piece of cardboard. Kinda like the opposite of Kayla, who has TOO MUCH personality. He is, quite literally, a waste of space. The ending outfit they had him in with the memes was genuinely the most emotion he ever sparked out of me. I kept imagining him as Justin Bieber in that one video of him singing "Sorry", like the striped cardigan and white T-shirt.
The side characters didn't really do anything. They provided us with RIVETING opportunities to see Kayla's brilliant personality in action but other than that, they were literally filler. Kind of like the filler that Kayla wanted in the beginning of the book. Speaking of, did she ever get the Botox back?
SIDE NOTE: I can't stand the bit about the boybander. Also what happened to her mom?????
On a positive note I liked Cammie Rae's storyline.
Yeah so read at your own risk! If y'all like her other books you will probably like this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
I haven't read any of the other books in the series, which, in my opinion, should not be a requirement.
My first ARC! This has so much sentimental value, so thank you so much!
I want to preface this by saying this writing style just wasn't for me. Which is fine; I mean, the same style isn't going to fit everyone and hey! that's alright. The sentences felt very choppy, rushed, and very unnatural. Might just be a me problem, though.
EDITING:
I understand that this is an ARC which means it will not be perfect. Keeping that in mind, I do think this book could do with a good round of grammar/punctuation editing. There are many places here that don't have proper quotation marks. One particularly memorable moment was when the book suddenly changed to third person in the middle of a first person POV.
PLOT:
I didn't like the insta-love portion. I never got any chemistry between the two and there didn't seem to be much connection. It kind of just seemed... sporadic. The conflicts between the two were resolved way too quickly without enough communication and that really just irks me in books. The plot almost didn't need to happen. Like, I feel like we would've ended the same way if they'd been left in a restaurant all by themselves for a week.
NOTE ON SLANG:
This book is very present-generation-esque. The characters use words like "troll", "girl" and "giving". Kayla is referred to as a "diva" in the entirety of the book but it's meant as a insult. In this day and age, "diva" is no longer an insult. On the contrary, it's more of a compliment. So, if people were spreading rumors about her being a diva, they likely would choose a different word as the connotations of "diva" have changed rather quickly.
THE CHARACTERS:
None of the characters acted their age. You could've told me they were 19 and I would've believed you.
Kayla walks the thin line between being very annoyingly overconfident and being a, as the present generation would call it, an absolute DIVA. There are only so many times you can refer to yourself as a "bad bitch" before it gets irritating. In the beginning of the book, she is also very prone to tripping, which honestly just makes me mad because... You can't be a strong independent woman if you literally trip ten times in two pages. No. No thank you!
Sam has really no character whatsoever. He's just... a soggy piece of cardboard. Kinda like the opposite of Kayla, who has TOO MUCH personality. He is, quite literally, a waste of space. The ending outfit they had him in with the memes was genuinely the most emotion he ever sparked out of me. I kept imagining him as Justin Bieber in that one video of him singing "Sorry", like the striped cardigan and white T-shirt.
The side characters didn't really do anything. They provided us with RIVETING opportunities to see Kayla's brilliant personality in action but other than that, they were literally filler. Kind of like the filler that Kayla wanted in the beginning of the book. Speaking of, did she ever get the Botox back?
SIDE NOTE: I can't stand the bit about the boybander. Also what happened to her mom?????
On a positive note I liked Cammie Rae's storyline.
Yeah so read at your own risk! If y'all like her other books you will probably like this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
Review of advance copy
Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson is a light, romantic novel with enemies-to-lovers elements and romantic comedy vibes. The story follows two characters who are forced to work together on a film — and as a result… they can’t stand each other, yet at the same time, they can’t stop looking at one another.
Kayla is a former child star who is doing everything she can to make a comeback as a respected romantic comedy actress, but her reputation suffered after public controversies.
Sam is a former member of a British boyband who is now trying to prove he can be taken seriously as an actor.
The film studio pairs them up for a project and expects “chemistry” between them, while the media and fans are hungry for drama and scandal. Kayla sees Sam as nothing more than a PR product — but he turns out to be kind, attractive, and… very hard to ignore.
I had such a great time reading this book! It’s a charming story that I simply couldn’t put down.
From the very beginning, Kayla and Sam’s banter pulled me in. Their dialogue is natural, witty, and full of that enemies-to-lovers tension that makes you say “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 2AM. The chemistry between them is clear from the very first pages — spark-filled, intense, and completely addictive.
At first, Kayla seems cold, stubborn, and closed off — protected by emotional armor she built after years in a difficult industry. That’s what makes her character growth so satisfying. The author gradually peels back her layers, giving us insight into her past and helping us understand who she really is. Watching her slowly open up — especially in the quieter, more intimate moments with Sam — is deeply rewarding. I truly grew to love her character.
And Sam… I absolutely adore him. He’s patient, caring, and genuine — impossible not to root for. Even when Kayla pushes him away, he stays steady and consistent in showing how he feels. I found myself constantly cheering for him — wanting him to receive the love he deserves and hoping Kayla would finally see what’s right in front of her.
I also really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look at filming. The Hollywood atmosphere, hot afternoons, beachy vibes, and the chance to step “behind the curtain” made the story even more immersive. The boyband element adds a fun touch of nostalgia, but it’s not the only thing that makes this book stand out. The supporting cast is also wonderfully developed.
Their story is sweet, emotional, and full of those quiet little moments that make romance special — the looks, the tension, the almosts. There’s humor, chemistry, passion, real character growth, and important themes handled with care. And the ending? I’ll admit — I teared up a little.
Overall, it’s a light, fast-paced, yet emotional and heartfelt story that’s definitely worth reading. 💙
Kayla is a former child star who is doing everything she can to make a comeback as a respected romantic comedy actress, but her reputation suffered after public controversies.
Sam is a former member of a British boyband who is now trying to prove he can be taken seriously as an actor.
The film studio pairs them up for a project and expects “chemistry” between them, while the media and fans are hungry for drama and scandal. Kayla sees Sam as nothing more than a PR product — but he turns out to be kind, attractive, and… very hard to ignore.
I had such a great time reading this book! It’s a charming story that I simply couldn’t put down.
From the very beginning, Kayla and Sam’s banter pulled me in. Their dialogue is natural, witty, and full of that enemies-to-lovers tension that makes you say “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 2AM. The chemistry between them is clear from the very first pages — spark-filled, intense, and completely addictive.
At first, Kayla seems cold, stubborn, and closed off — protected by emotional armor she built after years in a difficult industry. That’s what makes her character growth so satisfying. The author gradually peels back her layers, giving us insight into her past and helping us understand who she really is. Watching her slowly open up — especially in the quieter, more intimate moments with Sam — is deeply rewarding. I truly grew to love her character.
And Sam… I absolutely adore him. He’s patient, caring, and genuine — impossible not to root for. Even when Kayla pushes him away, he stays steady and consistent in showing how he feels. I found myself constantly cheering for him — wanting him to receive the love he deserves and hoping Kayla would finally see what’s right in front of her.
I also really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look at filming. The Hollywood atmosphere, hot afternoons, beachy vibes, and the chance to step “behind the curtain” made the story even more immersive. The boyband element adds a fun touch of nostalgia, but it’s not the only thing that makes this book stand out. The supporting cast is also wonderfully developed.
Their story is sweet, emotional, and full of those quiet little moments that make romance special — the looks, the tension, the almosts. There’s humor, chemistry, passion, real character growth, and important themes handled with care. And the ending? I’ll admit — I teared up a little.
Overall, it’s a light, fast-paced, yet emotional and heartfelt story that’s definitely worth reading. 💙
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*service presse numérique (ARC)*
4.25/5⭐️
Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson is a super addictive enemies-to-lovers romance with Hollywood and boyband vibes that I absolutely loved.
Kayla can seem cold, distant, and a little bit “diva” at first. But honestly? I understood her. She grew up in a difficult industry, she was judged, criticized, and mistreated. Of course she built walls to protect herself. And watching the author slowly peel back those layers to show who she really is was so satisfying.
Kayla seems cold and difficult at first, but when we learn about her past, everything makes sense. She is not mean, she is just protecting herself. I really loved her character development.
And Sam… first of all, I definitely do NOT hate him !!
I loved him. He’s patient, kind, respectful, and most of all genuine. He doesn’t force anything. Even when Kayla pushes him away, he stays steady and consistent. I was 100% rooting for him the whole time.
Sam is such a soft and caring MMC. He is trying to prove himself as an actor, but people don’t take him seriously because of his boyband past. I loved how determined he was, and how much he cared about Kayla.
Their chemistry? Incredible.
The dialogue feels natural and funny, with that perfect tension that makes you say “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
The banter was one of my favorite parts. It felt real and fun, and the chemistry was obvious from the beginning.
I also loved the behind-the-scenes movie setting. Being on set, seeing how everything works, the interviews, the media pressure… it made the story even more immersive. And the little boyband nostalgia touch? I loved it.
The Hollywood atmosphere, the movie set scenes, the beachy vibes — everything made the story more exciting and dynamic.
It’s a romance that is both light and emotional, with slow burn, tension, personal growth, and really sweet moments. I even had tears in my eyes at the end.
Overall, this book was cute, emotional, and very bingeable. I couldn’t put it down. If you like enemies to lovers, celebrity romance, and soft but strong male leads, you will love this.
Such a great read!!
With all my love,
Ur Lina 🎦
4.25/5⭐️
Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson is a super addictive enemies-to-lovers romance with Hollywood and boyband vibes that I absolutely loved.
Kayla can seem cold, distant, and a little bit “diva” at first. But honestly? I understood her. She grew up in a difficult industry, she was judged, criticized, and mistreated. Of course she built walls to protect herself. And watching the author slowly peel back those layers to show who she really is was so satisfying.
Kayla seems cold and difficult at first, but when we learn about her past, everything makes sense. She is not mean, she is just protecting herself. I really loved her character development.
And Sam… first of all, I definitely do NOT hate him !!
I loved him. He’s patient, kind, respectful, and most of all genuine. He doesn’t force anything. Even when Kayla pushes him away, he stays steady and consistent. I was 100% rooting for him the whole time.
Sam is such a soft and caring MMC. He is trying to prove himself as an actor, but people don’t take him seriously because of his boyband past. I loved how determined he was, and how much he cared about Kayla.
Their chemistry? Incredible.
The dialogue feels natural and funny, with that perfect tension that makes you say “just one more chapter”… and suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
The banter was one of my favorite parts. It felt real and fun, and the chemistry was obvious from the beginning.
I also loved the behind-the-scenes movie setting. Being on set, seeing how everything works, the interviews, the media pressure… it made the story even more immersive. And the little boyband nostalgia touch? I loved it.
The Hollywood atmosphere, the movie set scenes, the beachy vibes — everything made the story more exciting and dynamic.
It’s a romance that is both light and emotional, with slow burn, tension, personal growth, and really sweet moments. I even had tears in my eyes at the end.
Overall, this book was cute, emotional, and very bingeable. I couldn’t put it down. If you like enemies to lovers, celebrity romance, and soft but strong male leads, you will love this.
Such a great read!!
With all my love,
Ur Lina 🎦
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Hating Sam Slater" is the third book in the Five2Go boyband series but this was my first and after reading this book, I need to go back and read the first two.
I loved Kayla from the beginning, sure she had an attitude but she was also witty and hilarious. I could tell from the beginning, that she had been through a lot in the industry and needed an armour around her. I love how the author slowly peeled back the layers to see who Kayla was without her armour and getting a better idea into her past to understand who she is. I loved Kayla so much!
Sam was quite sweet and I love the mystery behind him getting the role in the movie with Kayla. Their banter and chemistry was off the charts from the start and I loved reading their story unfold. I also love seeing the making of a movie, while I have read books with movie sets before, I think this is the first time being brought into the scene with the characters and I loved feeling immersed in the process.
There are many important issues dealt with and with grace. I loved the supporting characters as well, especially Dean!
This was such a fun and beautiful book and I am excited to go back to read the first two!
*Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
I loved Kayla from the beginning, sure she had an attitude but she was also witty and hilarious. I could tell from the beginning, that she had been through a lot in the industry and needed an armour around her. I love how the author slowly peeled back the layers to see who Kayla was without her armour and getting a better idea into her past to understand who she is. I loved Kayla so much!
Sam was quite sweet and I love the mystery behind him getting the role in the movie with Kayla. Their banter and chemistry was off the charts from the start and I loved reading their story unfold. I also love seeing the making of a movie, while I have read books with movie sets before, I think this is the first time being brought into the scene with the characters and I loved feeling immersed in the process.
There are many important issues dealt with and with grace. I loved the supporting characters as well, especially Dean!
This was such a fun and beautiful book and I am excited to go back to read the first two!
*Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
⛱Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson | @carolericson 🎬
I had so much fun with this book! Even though the tension is crackling from the first scene with our MCs in an enemies to lovers kind of way, it's clear Kayla and Sam have chemistry from the beginning. And did I mention I love a man with long hair?? Well, I did now.
Through filming, misunderstandings, and Kayla's tender past that has left her heart fiercely guarded, they learn about each other, take chances, and go the extra mile to prove they care. I loved the ending and I may have teared up a little?
We've got hot Hollywood afternoons and beachy vibes and a supporting cast that you'll fall in love with.
Overall--It was light, fast-paced, with laughs and HEAT, real character growth, and I loved the boyband element, which isn't the only thing that makes this book stand out.
This was my first book by Carol Ericson and it will not be the last. Watch out, Saving Ian Pope and Sweet on Charlie Beck--I'm coming for you next!
⛱Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson | @carolericson 🎬
I had so much fun with this book! Even though the tension is crackling from the first scene with our MCs in an enemies to lovers kind of way, it's clear Kayla and Sam have chemistry from the beginning. And did I mention I love a man with long hair?? Well, I did now.
Through filming, misunderstandings, and Kayla's tender past that has left her heart fiercely guarded, they learn about each other, take chances, and go the extra mile to prove they care. I loved the ending and I may have teared up a little?
We've got hot Hollywood afternoons and beachy vibes and a supporting cast that you'll fall in love with.
Overall--It was light, fast-paced, with laughs and HEAT, real character growth, and I loved the boyband element, which isn't the only thing that makes this book stand out.
This was my first book by Carol Ericson and it will not be the last. Watch out, Saving Ian Pope and Sweet on Charlie Beck--I'm coming for you next!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely devoured Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson 😍💙 — such a cute, fast, binge-worthy read! I finished it in less than 48 hours because I honestly couldn’t put it down.
The banter between Kayla and Sam is EVERYTHING. Witty, natural, and full of tension that had me smiling and turning pages late into the night 🥹✨. Kayla’s stubborn, guarded personality made her growth so satisfying, and watching her slowly open up to Sam? Chef’s kiss 💛.
And Sam… yes. My golden retriever MMC energy right here 😭💖. Patient, caring, and endlessly genuine, he had me rooting for him from page one. You can feel how much he cares, and it makes the romantic payoff so worth it.
The story hits all the vibes: sweet Hollywood afternoons, beachy settings, and a supporting cast that makes you swoon. Enemies-to-lovers tension? Check. Heartfelt moments? Check. HEAT? Double check 🔥.
Overall, this is a light, fun, swoony romance with real character growth, laugh-out-loud moments, and chemistry that will leave you smiling. Carol Ericson, you’ve got a new fan — can’t wait to read more!
The banter between Kayla and Sam is EVERYTHING. Witty, natural, and full of tension that had me smiling and turning pages late into the night 🥹✨. Kayla’s stubborn, guarded personality made her growth so satisfying, and watching her slowly open up to Sam? Chef’s kiss 💛.
And Sam… yes. My golden retriever MMC energy right here 😭💖. Patient, caring, and endlessly genuine, he had me rooting for him from page one. You can feel how much he cares, and it makes the romantic payoff so worth it.
The story hits all the vibes: sweet Hollywood afternoons, beachy settings, and a supporting cast that makes you swoon. Enemies-to-lovers tension? Check. Heartfelt moments? Check. HEAT? Double check 🔥.
Overall, this is a light, fun, swoony romance with real character growth, laugh-out-loud moments, and chemistry that will leave you smiling. Carol Ericson, you’ve got a new fan — can’t wait to read more!
February 15, 2026
Arc Review * This is the third book in the Five2Go Boyband series, but it’s the first one I’ve had the chance to read and now I need to go back and start from the beginning!
I absolutely loved Kayla. She’s been through so much in the industry, and because of it she’s built such a strong sense of self. To the outside world, that came across as having an attitude and being hard to work with on set. It was heartbreaking at times, especially seeing the reality of what so many women in the entertainment industry likely face.
Sam and Kayla were both such compelling main characters. I really enjoyed getting glimpses into their younger selves and ultimately why they ended up working together. The dual POV throughout the chapters made it even better; I loved being able to step into both of their perspectives.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series and spending more time in this world!
I absolutely loved Kayla. She’s been through so much in the industry, and because of it she’s built such a strong sense of self. To the outside world, that came across as having an attitude and being hard to work with on set. It was heartbreaking at times, especially seeing the reality of what so many women in the entertainment industry likely face.
Sam and Kayla were both such compelling main characters. I really enjoyed getting glimpses into their younger selves and ultimately why they ended up working together. The dual POV throughout the chapters made it even better; I loved being able to step into both of their perspectives.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series and spending more time in this world!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
✨Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson✨
4⭐️
I am so grateful and fortunate that I got to read this book as an ARC! This book was great easy read, fast paced, funny and the characters were so well written; I felt like I knew them so well and once I started I didn’t want to stop!
“A popstar turned actor. A romcom diva looking for a comeback. Cue the chaos.”
I loved Kayla & Sam. 🫶🏻Kayla is a no nonsense strong independent woman and Sam..well there was no hating on him from me! 😍
I loved their relationship from start to finish. (Also loved Peaches the giant dog! 🥹)
This is the third in the Five2Go Boyband Series, I hadn’t read the first two but have I now downloaded them both to read.. you’re damn right I have!! 🫶🏻
✨Hating Sam Slater by Carol Ericson✨
4⭐️
I am so grateful and fortunate that I got to read this book as an ARC! This book was great easy read, fast paced, funny and the characters were so well written; I felt like I knew them so well and once I started I didn’t want to stop!
“A popstar turned actor. A romcom diva looking for a comeback. Cue the chaos.”
I loved Kayla & Sam. 🫶🏻Kayla is a no nonsense strong independent woman and Sam..well there was no hating on him from me! 😍
I loved their relationship from start to finish. (Also loved Peaches the giant dog! 🥹)
This is the third in the Five2Go Boyband Series, I hadn’t read the first two but have I now downloaded them both to read.. you’re damn right I have!! 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kayla a black listed Actress FMC for being a diva, Sam a former boy bander turned aspiring actor MMC. Sam is hand picked for the leading roll but insists Kayla be cast in the leading actress roll.
Shooting in LA brings forced proximity, having to share a room, whitty banter, hooking up, and back the past for Kayla what lead her to be labelled difficult to work with.
The book gives a glimpse to what really goes on behind the cameras, and those with power can use it to there advantage, and the courage it takes to speak up. An enjoyable slow burn, enemies to lovers, he falls first that will have you living Sam Slater.
Shooting in LA brings forced proximity, having to share a room, whitty banter, hooking up, and back the past for Kayla what lead her to be labelled difficult to work with.
The book gives a glimpse to what really goes on behind the cameras, and those with power can use it to there advantage, and the courage it takes to speak up. An enjoyable slow burn, enemies to lovers, he falls first that will have you living Sam Slater.
February 27, 2026
Sam Slater, a former Boybander turns actor gets cast on a romcom with Kayla Prescott. Kayla is known to be a diva/hard to work with but Sam doesn’t let that stop them from putting on the best performance in this movie. The banter between Sam and Kayla is to die for. Sam is so fun, silly and carefree. While Kayla has her guard up for most of the story, she falls hard and fast for Sam. This was personally my favorite five2go book so far! Such an easy, fun read that pulls you right in!
The five2go series has been so fun to read! I’m so thankful to the author, Carol Ericson for allowing me the chance to read the ARC for this book.
The five2go series has been so fun to read! I’m so thankful to the author, Carol Ericson for allowing me the chance to read the ARC for this book.
February 23, 2026
I truly enjoyed this book and the behind-the-scenes look at acting. It was inspiring to finally see a MMC stand up to the patriarchy, on behalf of females undergoing SA and coercion. And seeing FMC suffer negative professional consequences from refusing to sleep with her director resonated. But it was empowering to see Kayla power through, keeping her integrity, while also helping other women. Sam and Kayla’s love story and HEA were sweet to see unfold. Only thing I would’ve liked is more spice! #ARC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved how faced paced this book was. We get to know both main characters with every chapter and it gives depth to them. I enjoyed this read! I would say this was a solid 4 stars for me. A cute rivals to lovers with forced proximity that has you giggling and kicking your feet. It was spicy too tho, but not too much, it was well dosed I would say. Thank you Carol for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the ARC TEAM 🫶🏼
February 19, 2026
*ARC REVIEW* An enemies to lovers story, set in a celebrity world. Our FMC is a black listed actress with a big secret, struggling to get her career back on track. The MMC is a former boybander with a successful solo career, that’s trying to further his career in acting. The banter is sharp and witty. The tension is even sharper. Themes of power imbalances, ill treatment in the movie industry, and media.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the 3rd book on this series and I dove in head first. I will definitely go back and read the other 2 books. This story was very good and you went on a roller coaster of feelings throughout this book.
I was lucky to receive this book as an E-Arc and this review is my own. Thank you for this opportunity!
I was lucky to receive this book as an E-Arc and this review is my own. Thank you for this opportunity!
Review of advance copy received from Author
SO AMAZING.
i’m extremely grateful to have been selected for an arc of this book, i’ve never read anything by the author before but now that i have i definitely will be reading some more.
hating sam slater?! we love sam slater. their romance was perfect and had me completely hooked from start to finish.
i’m extremely grateful to have been selected for an arc of this book, i’ve never read anything by the author before but now that i have i definitely will be reading some more.
hating sam slater?! we love sam slater. their romance was perfect and had me completely hooked from start to finish.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review:-
This is my first time reading a book by this author and my first impression is that this is a fun, light read, with a memorable story line, I’m absolutely obsessed with Sam. All characters were memorable, including the side characters and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. 💕
This is my first time reading a book by this author and my first impression is that this is a fun, light read, with a memorable story line, I’m absolutely obsessed with Sam. All characters were memorable, including the side characters and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. 💕
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was hooked on this story from the very beginning. Kayla and Sam were wickedly witty, they are an adorable couple. Add in great side characters and the adorable massive dog "Peaches," and you've got an enjoyable story. I am eagerly awaiting the next Five2Go book, Conor's story. Thank you to NetGalley for the free advance readers copy, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fun read. Good rom com energy with some secrets, some angst, and a decent amount of spice. Both main characters have a good backstory and spark flames with each other. A good sneak peak into the lives of young actors and musicians growing up in their fields and finding their ways forward with morals and good character.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*ARC Review*
I wasn't sure what to expect diving head first into book 3 of this interconnected series, but the plot was good and the characters kept me on my toes. The quick banter between Kayla and Sam (our main characters) was fun through the story.
I wasn't sure what to expect diving head first into book 3 of this interconnected series, but the plot was good and the characters kept me on my toes. The quick banter between Kayla and Sam (our main characters) was fun through the story.
February 22, 2026
*ARC Review* ~ Wow. This was such a short and sweet read. Despite it being short, a lot happened in this book and I never found it boring.
All of the characters were well-developed and I loved Kayla and Sams dynamic. The banter was also great!
Carol Ericsons writing is amazing.
All of the characters were well-developed and I loved Kayla and Sams dynamic. The banter was also great!
Carol Ericsons writing is amazing.
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