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Houston's Finest #1

Hating to Love You

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Rafe Pierce just wants to keep his head down and earn his next promotion. Becoming Houston’s “Hot Cop” is his worst nightmare, and things only get worse when the sexiest reporter he’s ever met starts digging through his past. Sophie Klein has the power to expose a childhood he’d rather keep hidden, so why can’t he stay away from her?

He’s everything Sophie Klein hates: brash, arrogant, and hot as hell. When a chance encounter with a bachelorette party makes Rafe a social-media sensation, Sophie is the lucky reporter chosen to tell his story. She can’t deny the chemistry between them, but is determined to keep her distance. Unfortunately for her, a drunken hookup in a bar supply closet ensures she will be spending at least the next nine months with him…

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First published January 6, 2019

35 people are currently reading
483 people want to read

About the author

Erin Rylie

5 books118 followers
I'm a Montana born, Texas raised New Jersey transplant with a degree in hospitality. At 29 years old, I decided it was finally time for me to pursue my real passion in life - writing. I've been writing princess stories and LOTR fan-fiction since I was in middle school, so the transition into romance has been fun!

When I'm not writing, I'm reading (fantasy, sci-fi and romance are my genres) or working. I'm currently obsessed with Brooklyn Nine Nine which should tell you all you need to know about my sense of humor.

Finally, I am 100% an old cat lady. My cats Socks and Kaz are little weirdos and I love them more than most people.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,812 reviews615 followers
January 16, 2019
“𝗦𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗶𝘁 𝘆𝗲𝘁, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗴𝗼."

HOT COP ALERT! Need I say more? 𝐇𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮 by Erin Rylie is book one in her 𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑛'𝑠 𝐹𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑡 series and I fell in love almost immediately…with the characters, with the writing, with the trope that I’m so fond of. I couldn’t put it down! You can tell by reading the blurb that this is an unexpected pregnancy romance and yes, it has been done before, but you guys need to understand that this is Erin’s DEBUT book. This is her debut and she freaking NAILED IT! She took something familiar to us and made it her own, made it different, unique even. I loved it! Rafe Pierce was an unexpected, insanely sexy delight! The manner in which he took the news of Sophie’s predicament, blew me away and it carved a special place in my heart for that man. Swoony, sexy, witty, sweet, and freshly entertaining, Ms. Rylie has made a FAN out of me! Keep doin’ you, girl and BRING. ON. THE. NEXT.

GRAB IT HERE:
Amazon US → https://amzn.to/2DgESjV
Amazon International → http://bit.ly/2VBW2PZ

ARC Tag
Profile Image for Joleen (starlightbooktales).
380 reviews282 followers
April 12, 2019
Erin Rylie’s debut novel, Hating to Love You, which centers around Rafe Pierce, Houston’s Hot Cop and Sophie Klein, a reporter who is assigned to get the scoop on Rafe after his photo goes viral. After a steamy one night stand, Rafe and Sophie now have to spend the next nine months getting to know each other for the sake of their baby.

It feels like I have been waiting for months to write this review up. I had the wonderful privilege of reading this book before it was finished and let me tell you the wait in between chapters was pure torture. From the first chapter, I was blown away by Erin’s ability to create a fantastic story that immediately grabbed my attention and didn’t let me go.

While the plot was great and the romance was on point, the characters are what really made this novel. Sophie and Rafe have undeniable chemistry. Sophie was such a delight to read about, her wit and sass were so relatable. Plus her insecurities regarding relationships really hit home for me and that made me love her ten times more. And Rafe, what a dreamboat. The serious definition of the perfect man. Rafe was always so caring and supportive, plus he had some serious moves in the bedroom. But together, they create a solid genuine relationship and I couldn't help myself falling in love more and more after each page.

Do you know how I said I was blown away from the first chapter? I am not exaggerating. You should see my Kindle highlights. I cannot express how much I enjoyed the banter and not just the banter from the two main characters. The side characters were equally hilarious. Just you wait until you meet them. Some of the best parts of the book were the text conversations between Sophie and Rafe. Those were the parts that had me dying of laughter, I just couldn’t help myself.

As far as romance goes, Erin Rylie is one to add to your TBR’s. You seriously won’t regret it. I mean book 2 is BRILLIANT! Which speaking of book 2, Needing to Love You comes out today! So don’t wait!

Profile Image for Jessica {Litnoob}.
1,302 reviews100 followers
January 11, 2019
This book was an unexpected joy that I didn’t know I needed and am so glad that I had the opportunity not only to read but to read early.

Tragic past and sassy characters who are flawed and passionate and real? Sign me up! Add in an undeniable spark and more sass with amazing sexy times?! Double sign me up. Top is off with loads of charm and girl friends who talk like actual girl friends in real life? That’s it I’m so signed up I’ll subscribe.

The book was a really solid 4.5 for me the whole time. And then the epilogue kicked in and it hurt my soul in the best ways and kicked the feels up to a solid indisputable 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

It was a one day read and had life not demanded my attention it would have been a single sitting read. I was that into it. I have expectations of follow ups lol.
Profile Image for Suey_Library.
365 reviews19 followers
January 6, 2019
Ah, the romance porn, I can never stay away, can I? And what do we have here? Yep, its a 'Enemies to Lovers' trope screaming my name. On top of my favorite trope calling out to me I am beyond ecstatic to read one of my close friends debut book, I mean it isn't every day you can brag that your friend is officially a writer right? Especially in your favorite genre. 

So lets dive in shall we? Because these characters guys.... they are hilariously divine. Seriously I loved Rafe. I know, go figure right, you know I can never resist a toolbag complex yet it is all for show, so comrades give him a chance, this toolbag is a closet sweetheart. I mean it, he has such a sweet, charming personality, he was absolutely the sweetest man. Not only this, he was drop dead hot! Ladies can never resist a man in uniform, Rafe definitely has a fun personality, where is this man in real life, I need to upgrade to a newer model if men like Rafe exist. 

Sophie on the other hand probably was more easy to like yet had these annoying habits too, but I found them rather relatable. She was reserved, strong willed and definitely thick headed. I liked her a lot. I don't know what it was about her quirks but she is definitely someone I would call my bestie, I just really enjoyed how she carried herself. In the mix of how 'hard to get' kind of exterior she has, she is still just as lovable and kind, again she is just an easy character to relate to and enjoy immensely. 

And oh my lanta Rafe and Sophie together - this is what makes this trope the absolute best! At the start, Rafe is a jerk to Sophie, and she isn't a peach herself yet you can just sense the sexual tension between them. And when they did collide, well melt me some of that kitkat please and thank you. That club scene? Wow. Just the overall connection between them is absolutely undeniable, definitely great sexual chemistry. On top of this, once Rafe really starts pursuing Sophie as an acutal relationship there is still some push and pull, mostly on Sophie's end, being a victim of a crappy love life previously she is definitely hesitant. This definitely plays hugely on the drama of Rafe being the 'Hot Single Cop', so makes total sense. Yet Rafe breaks those walls and honestly they just have such a great relationship dynamic. Not only is it drool worthy, it is sweetly adorable romance that just has me swooning for more.

And come on, the secondary characters? Seriously I loved them. They were like an extension of the entire novel, probably the majority of the character dynamics would have been more lack luster if not for the surroundings characters. Don't get me wrong, I loved Rafe and Sophie, I mean obviously I cannot stop gushing over their romance but lets face it, when you have secondary characters who stick out just as much as the main characters, they are worth everything. Charlos is definitely hilarious, I love how he acts with Rafe, I can never resist a good bromance. Then Kelsey and Becky, oh my lanta, these two gals mixed with Sophie is enough awesomeness wrapped in one! Becky is hilariously entertaining, Kelsey is downright charming and mixed with Sophie's calm, collective personality, this trio is a chocolate cake treat waiting to be devoured. I cannot wait to get more of these in future books.

Overall, Erin Rylie is such a phenomenal writer, this being her debut novel I am very excited to see where she evolves from here. Though Hating to Love You had some pet peeves from my personal perspective as I am not the biggest fan when it comes to unexpected pregnancy tropes, but even with this, this 'Enemies to Lovers' was the absolute gem of gems - everything from the witty, charming banter down to the off the chart delicious chemistry was just amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed this read, it was light, easy read, entertaining and scrumptious! I cannot wait for Charlos and Kelsey... because whew that ending. 

***Received an Advanced Readers Copy through Erin Rylie in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for Your Mom.
75 reviews33 followers
January 7, 2019
Erin Rylie feels like a seasoned veteran of the Romance genre with her debut, Hating to Love You. Despite the fact that I easily award books with five stars for pure enjoyment, it is rather difficult to actually impressme, however, Erin has done just that with Rafe and Sophie’s story.

Hating to Love You takes tried and true romantic elements, but makes them feel new again. Though separate, they each have their own pasts that have dictated the present. Sad circumstances that make them who they are and how they react to being thrown into situations, like Rafe’s inability to be open about his childhood for fear of rejection, both romantically and especially within his career. Sophie has been burned again and again by men and so, naturally, she is immediately dismissive of anyone that even resembles a ‘playboy’.

Rafe finds himself the subject of a lot of attention as he becomes Houston’s Hot Cop, while Sophie is saddled with the unfortunate task of interviewing him for a series of articles. What Sophie wasn’t expecting, of course, was the immediate attraction. While expected within a romance novel, Erin makes Sophie feel so much more real by bringing the trope to the forefront of our heroine’s mind, “So this is what insta-lust feels like. Holy Shit.” Not only did Rafe laugh out loud (because Sophie inadvertently said it out loud), but I did too.

This story is seasoned perfectly with moments like this, that make the characters feel more real, despite the common plot themes that accompany contemporary romance.

Hating to Love You is undeniably sweet, it has heart, humor and it has steam-

” The door hadn’t even completely closed before his mouth was on hers. He kissed her like a starving man, like he needed the air in her lungs to breathe. One hand pushed through her hair, grasping the back of her neck, while the other slid down her body. Everywhere he touched sparked at the contact. His hand moved slowly down her side, caressing the side of her breast, her waist, and then her hip before sliding around to grab her ass. He cupped her firmly in one palm and tugged her forward, pressing his chest against hers. “

The dialogue between our characters, main and supporting, feels effortless, natural. At under 300 pages, it is a shorter story, but the pacing is spot on- including the time jumps that occur. Nothing feels rushed. What could easily have suffered from a plot dump (throwing everything together at the end in a giant clusterfuck), was again, handled with ease by Erin.

One of the driving forces of this story is not necessarily the fact that they are forced to work together, but what happens as a result of their insta-lust.


Minor Spoilers Ahead





It is boldly hinted at in the description that Sophie becomes pregnant, but somehow that didn’t register with me when I briefly scanned in and so I went in primarily blind when starting this book. It should be no surprise that I detest baby romances (that is, if you follow me on Instagram), however, when I realized that this is what Hating to Love You was at it’s heart, I wasn’t mad about it- not one bit. Erin has a way about her writing that drew me in immediately. The pregnancy itself is used to bring Sophie and Rafe closer, to build their relationship and guide us to the Happily Ever After (and subsequent Epilogue cliffhanger! DAMN YOU ERIN). And maybe that is why it was so easy for me to love, while Sophie’s 9 months is the glue, it is Sophie and Rafe’s relationship that holds our attention so completely.

Though our leads are center stage, it is hard to ignore the supporting cast. Kelsey and Carlos feel immediately fleshed out, which is not something I expect from a debut author, but again, Erin is a unicorn. I cannot wait to dive into Kelsey’s head (and have my drama fueled heart sated by her very tenuous relationship with her ex-husband). I can already anticipate the hidden depths to Carlos, resident charmer. There is always more going on beneath the surface and I cannot wait to see what Erin brings us in book two of Houston’s Finest series.
Profile Image for Michelle L ❣️💕✨.
50 reviews85 followers
December 14, 2018
Hating to love you is Erin’s debut novel and let me tell you she is already on my list of must read romance authors. I am fairly picky with my romance books because I usually read them in my most desperate times; midterm and finals week. As I mention I am extremely picky with my books, almost reading exclusively Vi Kelaand, but Erin Rylie has surpassed all my criteria with flying colors.

My criteria for romance books goes something like this:

1. They have to have the right balance of comedy, drama and romance.

2. The characters have to enroll into witty banter. They have to be relatable and real.

3. The drama has to be feasible but not too much.

4. The romance has to make me swoon and make me regret that I am single as a pringle.

Erin accomplisher all of this and more in her novel. Let me tell you, books where the girls get unexpectedly pregnant give my 20 year old self the urge to run and hide. Just thinking about the fact that I could be pregnant gives me anxiety so Erin had a hard sell. Nevertheless, I read her novel in one sitting. 6 hours later, I just had finished the book ,I was screaming in my bedroom, rolling on the floor and harassing Erin for her next novel.

The characters are so real and likable. I felt in love with Raffle but I think his hilarious partner Carlos stole my heart even more. As a Houstonian I enjoyed hearing all the places I have been to FINALLY on a novel. Houston is a great place y’all.

Here are some reasons why you should be early waiting for all Houston’s finest novels

1. Hot cops

2. Hot Texan cops

3. Hot shirtless cops

4. Hot baby daddy cop

In Hating To Love you is a wild ride. The story went to places I did expect it to go, so it was a nice surprise. This debut novel is just the begging let me tell you, what comes next is hotter and I couldn’t be more excited about it.

BOOK STATS

Plot: ✰✰✰✰
Characters: ✰✰✰✰
Writing Style ✰✰✰✰✰
Personal Experience ✰✰✰✰✰
Overall: ✰✰✰✰✰ (4.5 Stars)
Profile Image for Tiffany S.
1,091 reviews38 followers
August 25, 2019
How wonderful this story is!!! Was a one sitting read for me! Lovable characters. Beautiful dialogue moments where you feel the angst, love, and laughter. Truly a solid debut book! Can’t wait to read what else this author writes!
Profile Image for Amanda.
2,468 reviews104 followers
January 6, 2019
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]

" So this is what insta-lust feels like. Holy shit."

Hating to Love you is the debut by romance author Erin Rylie. It's definitely one of those feel good romances that puts a smile on your face while reading it.

"Nothing could quite compare to the smell of fresh books and fresher coffee."

Both of our leading characters have tragic back round stories. Rafe finds everything thing he's always wanted in Sophie and is ready to jump in head first, while Sophie can't help but see all the ways this could come crashing down around her. Rafe is sweet, sensitive, sexy and swoon worthy. Sophie is down to earth and a bit sassy. Together they work, in the bedroom and out of it. There is a lot of intimate scenes between them and most will leave you hot and bothered. 🔥

Oh, there is no doubt about it. I absolutely dream about you in handcuffs. Just last night, I dreamed you were handcuffed to that bedpost you seem to think has so many notches. You were naked and I was licking your—”

Hating to Love you was a great read for any romance lover, and I am already itching for Erin's next book because I've been in love with Carlos since before this book was even finished 😂

"He kissed her like a starving man, like he needed the air in her lungs to breathe."
20190106_131450

"she didn’t know if she could ever get enough of him, of this. The thought terrified her."


images

4/5🌟

Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,215 reviews3 followers
January 5, 2019
Wow I have a new book boyfriend and he is named after a ninja turtle.

I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down. It was faced passed and emotional, keeping me at the edge of my seat. The author’s writing had the perfect combination of quirk and steam that made me devour the pages.

This couple is GOALS. Rafe is undeniably sexy, but also so sweet; the perfect combination. Sophie is such a relatable character that I could see myself coming over for wine and cult classic movie nights.
And the chemistry between him and Sophie is hot hot hot. The sexual tension through the book is on fire. They are flawed and constantly learning about themselves and each other. I need more of them!

This book was full of drama and had me cracking up constantly. I felt myself gasp out loud a couple of times. I absolutely loved suave Carlos and need more of his sass in my life (please sign me up for the fan club). He has no filter and lots of ego and I am here for it. Kelsey is the perfect best friend for Sophie, an amazing side kick, protector, and fellow Illuminae lover. Plus all the Greatest Showman references made my nerdy heart happy.

The cliffhanger was INTENSE and I will have to re read this book soon to survive the wait for the next one.

Do yourself a favor and read this book IMMEDIATELY!
Profile Image for Dora Escobedo.
523 reviews20 followers
February 16, 2019
Rafe Pierce is a police officer who becomes “Insta famous” after a very curious arrest and Sophie Pierce is a reporter assigned to learn everything about him. Rafe pretends to be a douche and Sophie, being reminded of all her exes, instantly hates him. When hate turn to love (kind of) THINGS happen. Lol, this was such a fun and cute read. I really loved the characters and I can say I understood every book reference except for the grapes *spits out drink* lol. The dialogue was my favorite. I live for dialogue and the string of texts were everything. The friendships were so heart warming and pure too I can’t wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Terra.
113 reviews2 followers
January 10, 2019
I tried, I mean really tried to like this and read the entire book but I just couldn't. It started out good but the hero and heroine were hardly enemies and everything else felt like a huge cliche. I need more developed characters and not take every cliche that ever existed
Profile Image for Emily.
355 reviews7 followers
January 25, 2019
I’ve followed Erin for a while on Instagram, and didn’t know until recently that she was even writing a book. When I found out, I was so excited for her, but I’m always wary of reading a book by a debut author. Especially one that I’ve gotten to know outside of the author realm. Because of that, I was hesitant going into this one, because I truly didn’t know what I was going to find. I also went into it completely blind, without even reading the blurb of the book, because I wanted to see how well the story was laid out for me without having any preconceived notions.

Sophie is a reporter in Houston, when she lands the job of lead reporter for the story of on Houston’s “Hottest Cop.” Having been burned before by playboy boyfriend’s that ended up being nothing but lying, cheating douchebags, she’s less than impressed when she meets Rafe. To her, he comes off as an arrogant ass, who does nothing to impress her with his less than stellar personality. His body, however, is another story. Sophie can’t help but notice how absolutely built Rafe is, leaving her panting every time she notices his built chest or bulging biceps. Sophie is such a fantastic character, with a beautiful heart, and loving personality. Even when life throws her a curveball, she digs in and comes out on top.

Rafe Pierce just wants to be a good cop. One mishap with a photo during a routine call at a bar, lands him in a pickle of a situation and stuck in the eye of a media storm. Trying to hide who he really his from Sophie, he ends up coming across as an arrogant playboy rather than the kind and caring individual he really is. It isn’t until life punches him in the face that he truly starts to open up and lets Sophie into his life. Rafe is probably one of my favorite characters that I’ve read in awhile. He’s sweet without being sappy, and his heart is so big and I absolutely adored that side of him.

Overall, Erin completely blew me away with her debut novel. I loved her writing, and the originality of her story. A lot of surprise baby romances end up being very one note, and I felt like Hating to Love You was much more diverse and unpredictable in the best way possible. I can’t wait to see what other surprises Erin has in store for us with her Houston Finest series, and I’m chomping at the bit to get to book 2!

4.5/5 Stars!!
Profile Image for Demi.
185 reviews88 followers
January 4, 2019
First off, I just wanted to say a big thank you to Erin for providing me with an eARC of Hating to Love You. This is my 100% honest review.

Hating to Love You is Erin Rylie’s debut novel and I am surprisingly shocked at how much I enjoyed reading this book. It had the perfect balance of drama, comedy and steamy romance!

One of the things that took me some time to get use to with this book was the perspective the story was written in. This story is written in third person, and I am use to reading in first. But after the first couple of chapters, I got used to the third person perspective and was instantly hooked. (though I still prefer first.) But other than that, I really enjoyed the overall story, I liked all the characters, they were very well-written, and freakin hilarious! Although I do love Rafe and Sophie’s relationship, my favorite characters were definitely Rafe and his best friend/partner, Carlos. I just loved their bromance, lol.

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, super steamy romance, I definitely suggest you give this book a chance! But be warned, this ends on a cliffhanger that will leave you needing more! ;)
Profile Image for Evelyn.
199 reviews35 followers
January 27, 2019
I have to say, I don’t really read romance so I was overly critical on this one, but it was a fun debut novel! Definitely a fun, lighthearted and quick read! The story itself was something I felt like I’d seen in a movie before so there weren’t really a lot of surprises there, but it’s nothing that made me want to stop reading. My only issue was the whole “enemies to lovers” plot line. The 2 main characters never really started out as ENEMIES really. They were just kind of annoyance to each other that ended up turning into a romance. The references to Rafe being a player weren’t really accurate and didn’t make too much sense. Despite that it was a well rounded story!

4 stars from me!
Profile Image for Ivy Valentiny.
422 reviews
February 12, 2019
I’ve said it once I will say it again, this book is gold. I’m not one to read romance but I was blown away at how addicted I became to this story. I was laughing out loud from page one. Sophie and Rafe were intoxicating. I can’t wait for more in book two about Kelsey and Carlos. You totally get all the fangirl feels in this one. Which I love because you can tell Erin is a total booknerd (if you didn’t already know from insta 😉). This book is rated-r just in case some of you were wondering. I wish I could have read it in one sitting it was so hard to put down for work. All end my review at this, THAT CLIFFHANGER!!!
Profile Image for Amanda.
882 reviews
January 9, 2019
4.5 stars!
Well what can I say, that was one hell of a debut novel! I’ve been looking forward to reading this one since I first saw it advertised and I was not disappointed. A very enjoyable read, can’t wait for more of this series!
Profile Image for Reva Dawn.
425 reviews11 followers
September 18, 2019
So heart warming

I read these books out if order and still need to read book two, but 1/3 both are so different and original for romance books and so touching i love the stories so much
Profile Image for Night Owl Reads.
209 reviews77 followers
January 11, 2019
This was a cute little romance for a debut author. But follow my motto on this one, do not read the synopsis. I hate when a major spoiler is thrown haphazardly in the synopsis. Your best bet is to trust me and not read any part of the synopsis and be completely surprised like I was... because what happens was definitely a surprise to me, for the soul fact that I very, very rarely ever read the synopsis of a book and I am so glad I didn't. I didn't even know it was in the synopsis until I messaged one of my book besties about it, knowing she read this too and she told me it wasn't a surprise because it was in the synopsis.


So, I loved the main male, Rafe. He is caught up in this party and becomes a hot commodity overnight on Instagram. When he meets Sophie, sparks fly and everything changes. I loved him and thought he was a great male character. He was dealt a shit hand of cards in life and knows what he wants. When that opportunity comes with Sophie, he takes his chances and goes for it.



Sophie on the other hand, I liked her but damn, it got to a point where she was on my nerves a bit. She has trust issues from past relationships, which is understandable, but at the same time, Rafe proves himself to her time and time again and all she does is compare him to her exes. That isn't fair to him. She pushes him away for no reason, he doesn't give her a reason to and it's like how many times does he have to prove himself worthy, even when her friends are telling her to give him a chance.



Other than that, I didn't have a problem with the story. I think it was cute and I loved that I did not spoil myself by reading the synopsis. Rafe is not an alpha, he is a hot cop that just wants to make a good life for himself, better than the one he was handed at birth. The supporting characters are amazing! I loved Carlos, he is the funny, I don't give a crap partner and is the type of friend that when you need him he is there and the same goes for Kelsey! I cannot wait to read their story!



I will definitely pick up more from this author. Her stories are perfect to read in between the heavy. Also, my husband is a huge ninja turtles fan! Like HUGE! And very much appreciated the references in here when I showed him!
Profile Image for Courtney.
145 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2021
It was so good then it crashed and burned at end 🙄
Profile Image for Natasha.
253 reviews16 followers
August 7, 2025
“He’s over at the bar if you want to try slapping him again. He isn’t in uniform this time so it wouldn’t be as big of a crime.”

This book was recommended by a friend, I usually get my romance novels on kindle but I love the cover on this one. I didn’t know what it was about going in so the storyline was a complete surprise.

I love Rafe, he’s sweet, determined, head strong and a little cocky. He’s also incredibly charming and funny.

Sophie’s is sweet, her insecurities ran deep and they really did effect their relationship but they were realistic insecurities with a realistic reaction when things inevitably went awry.

I absolutely adore Carlos and Kelsey. Kelsey reminds me of a close friend so I immediately loved her. And Carlos is the type of guy friend everyone needs in their life.
Profile Image for Autumn.
977 reviews45 followers
April 22, 2019
Hot cops whhaaaaa...

So I've heard rumblings of this book, both good and not so good. So I decided to go in with super low expectations. And I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. A few things from me crazy, as a reader I have interesting peeves and 2 or if there 4 were there for me. But I think the average person didn't have the same issues I do. Luckily it didn't take away from the book for me.
Profile Image for Laura.
1,378 reviews17 followers
December 17, 2018
Erin Rylie – Hating to Love You (Houston’s Finest, #1)

**THERE ARE MINOR SPOILERS ABOUT THE WRITING STYLE IN THE REVIEW**

Raphael ‘Rafe’ Pierce and Sophie Klein. Houston’s hottest cop and the sweet, gorgeous journalist. I’ve started writing this review when I was only half-way through, so I may be all over the place, I apologize in advance. But I just felt like I already had so much to say about this book! So I’m going to start anyway and see where I’ll leave it for now.

First of all, I really like the characters, they’re well-written, have a story to back their actions up and are just amazing. Although I feel like Sophie sometimes keeps her thoughts spinning in circles and for the first three to four times, it’s okay she mentions that flaw of hers, after that fourth time, it gets a little old when nothing else is happening. Rafe’s story is a lot better and I like that it is written in and that there are a couple mentions of it, I really wish to learn more about it. But I really like Erin Rylie thought to write them their stories.

What’s also different than most books I read, and believe me I took almost eleven chapters to get used to it –and still am getting used to it every time I start reading again, is the perspective the whole story is written in. I’ll quote to show you the way it’s written, since I honestly don’t know how to explain it the right way.

“Rafe shook his head at his partner, a rueful smile tipping up the corners of his lips.” – Erin Rylie, Hating To Love You

That is while you’re reading in Rafe’s perspective, you constantly read his name and at first, since I’m used to reading in I-form, it took some time to get used to it and not feel like Rafe was talking about himself in third person. Once I got used to it, I did like that it was different however. I like the I-form more, but for the change, it was nice I think.

All those things are really small things that don’t really measure up to all the good things, because man, did that woman do her job good! Because of the different kind of perspectives, the book is different from most everything else and therefore it really stands out. I also really like that she did it, because I think diversity in this genre is a really good thing! The diversity can be in anything, as long as it is there and Erin Rylie really did well in being different than other authors. I like it. As I already said, I really like the characters, they’re really humans, they’re not perfect and they aren’t trying to be.

It’s definitely not a slow read, which I like. A lot happens at all times and places. I really think this book is an amazing read and after chapter ten or so, I was definitely hooked. And then the ending, OMG the ending… Luckily there will be a second book soon enough!

I really recommend it to those who love action and hot and steamy scenes. Overall, it’s a really good book and I absolutely enjoyed reading it. Once this book releases I will definitely buy the paperback version, because I really loved reading it and I’m looking forward to book two in the series, about Kelsey and Carlos. The best friend and the partner.

4/5 stars.
Profile Image for Charli (charlithebookprincess).
300 reviews
January 3, 2019
I was seriously so excited for this book because I have gotten to know this author personally before she published her first book. Despite this, I was still wary of reading an author's debut book, but I was so excited for Erin and knew I needed to read it. I could not be more proud of her! I am not saying this because I know her, I am saying this from a reviewer's standpoint...this debut was fantastic! It was so well written and right up my alley. I mean what more could I ask for than a surprise baby romance with a hot cop set in the city I grew up in?!?

Sophie has been burned a few times by her POS exes and has sworn off love from a hot guy. When she is forced to write a feature on Houston's Hot Cop, she is bound and determined to not fall for him. However, she can't resist his charming personality and sexy voice. She digs deeper to discover there is more to this playboy and needs to figure out what makes this man tick. When life throws a curveball her way, she wants to make the most of it and do the right thing for the child she is now carrying. I loved Sophie's softness and kindness. I also loved her fierceness and her desire to stand up for herself.

Rafe was the shining star in this book for me. He is a man who grew up in a broken home and does not want the world to find out about it, which is why he becomes a complete jackass to Sophie. However, jackass is the furthest thing to describe Rafe. All Safe has ever wanted in life is a family to call his own. When Sophie bombards his life and gives him the opportunity to fulfill this dream, he will go all out to ensure she becomes a permanent light in his life. I loved Rafe's strength and charming personality. He is sweet and protective and such a beautiful man. He was willing to give up everything for the love of his life.

My favorite thing about this book was the originality of it. I feel like I read the same scene over and over again when it comes to surprise baby romances so I was happy to see the author go a different way with it. I truly loved this story and can't wait to see what else Erin has in store for us!

Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars!
Blog: www.radbabesread.com
Profile Image for maddi clark.
138 reviews12 followers
January 16, 2019
** I did recieve an ebook ARC to read and review. ALL MY THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.**

One of the best romances novel I read.

Yes. This is pretty big statement. But it's true. I never felt I read a romance novel that I felt all my emotions in one sitting. I laugh, cry, threw my imaginary book at the wall, crush the book to my chest and big guffaw laugh. I was read this book in three days, each time staying up till 2 am bc I was really engaged with the story. I was really interested in ALL the characters. I love Sophie, Rafe, Carlos, Kelsey, and Becky. The pace for the novel was excellent and the dialogue was on point!

I someone who rarely reads romance books. Romance books are never on my list of books to read. I am really hard to impress and want to sit down and read it. I do not know if it has to do with the part of me that's anti-love or just picky. The biggest pet peeve of mine is Alpha male BS. I do not like men who are written to be sniffing at women and scream their fist, pointing MINE. MINE. me hulk and own woman. JUst ew and no.

Dialogue is another thing. I like dialogue to show emotion in action and gesture. Erin really did an outstanding job with dialogue.

Hating to love you is charming, sexy and beautiful. Rafe is a super charming, handsome and sweet genuine guy. I wanted to give him hugs throughout the book and smack his arm. Sophie is ambitious and thick-headed. I could write a long love letter to Carlos bc I LOVE HIM SO MUCH.

Pros
- an enemy to lover trope.
- sassy, brilliant banter bween Rafe and Sophie is popcorn- worthy.
- THE BROMANCE
- Carlos ... His winking won me over.
- great sexual chemistry

Cons
MORE CARLOS !!!

It's also really cute. The ending really killed me. I have high expectations for the second book. I highly recommend to read.

I will be frank, I was not expecting to love this book as much as I do. It super awesome.
Profile Image for Teralyn Mitchell.
Author 25 books247 followers
January 5, 2019
***I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review***

Erin Rylie is a new author and this is her debut book and I'm shouting at the top of my lungs that you need to read this book! OMG this book gave me all the feels. I absolutely adored Rafe from the moment I met him. A hot cop who is sensitive, caring, doesn't like attention with a troubled past? What's not to like? The premise of this story is so cute and intriguing. It took me a moment to warm up to Sophie but after I really saw her personally, I fell in love and she had me laughing out loud on more than one occasion.

Rafe and Sophie's love/hate relationship had me swooning. Sophie's reluctance with Rafe had me wanting to bang my head against a wall and the accidental pregnancy? This book really did have a lot of my favorite tropes and Erin wrote it expertly. She took a story we all know so well and made it her own. It had her signature humor and plenty of swearing and steamy sex that made it hard to put this book down. I really enjoyed getting to see Erin's writing style and meeting the characters she created.

I liked Carlos from the very beginning and I adored Kelsey and James. Becky had me sputtering laughter and I would have been spitting my drink out all the time like Kelsey if I'd been drinking! I love the story Erin weaved and how she got us to happily ever after but not without some teary eyes, frustration, and laugh out loud moments!

I seriously and whole-heartedly recommend Hating to Love You! I cannot wait for Needing to Love You--Carlos and Kelsey's story!
178 reviews28 followers
January 14, 2019
I was really excited to read this, after having gotten several recommendations from different people on social media (plus I love supporting indie authors) and unfortunately, this book was just "alright" for me.

To be honest, I think it could have been good if the description had been changed. Based on the summary, what I was expecting was a real enemies to lovers trope with an unexpected pregnancy and dramarama. In reality, it wasn't *really* enemies to anything. They meet during an interview and because he is purposefully trying to act like an asshole to get out of the spotlight as soon as possible, she thinks (rightly) that he's a jackass. But they dislike each other for all of a few weeks while working together, and the majority of the novel is not "enemies" or even "dislike." I also really dislike the "me and my girlfriends" and "him and all his guy friends" kind of trope that I've seen around romance in general... it seems a bit like a sitcom to me, but hey, depending on your mood, that could be a great read!

I do like the unexpected pregnancy trope and felt it was done well here. It had lots of really fun pop culture and book culture references (lamina, anyone?!) and I felt suddenly very old having read that movies from my teenage years were now being described as cult classics, but it gave me a laugh.

I'd definitely read more from this author in the future, but probably not read any summaries that might colour or shift my perspectives on what to be expecting or excited for in the story.
Profile Image for KyaReads.
228 reviews3 followers
January 4, 2019
This may be a debut novel from Erin Rylie but it feels like a veteran author wrote it and has made her an instant buy author for me! Everything there is to love about contemporary romance read lives in this story! The main characters are likable, relatable and all around good people. (yes i know they aren’t real). Sophie is an independent heroine who isn’t looking for a man to complete her and Rafe is a “man’s man” leading man but not a douche. *he may comes off like that in the beginning but he has his reasons lol*

I loved the way their relationship developed throughout the story and definitely loved the little surprises along the way. The banter was hilarious and witty and had me laughing out loud all the time! Those text message - priceless!!!

Even the side characters were amazing and I hope all of them get their own stories.

Soph and Rafe’s chemistry was off the charts and I’m really glad the sex scenes weren’t overdone. Sometimes too many can ruin it for me but this one I felt was done just right.

And the emotion and heart! Swoon! Rafe is the absolute sweetest and was so easy to love.

This read is a can’t miss and Erin Rylie is definitely one to make sure is on your radar!

*Arc generously provided for honest review
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