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Hate the Game
My official title: Relationship Consultant. A modern-day, one-sided matchmaker. When I approach relationships like a formula, it’s simple really. If only I had the same success in my personal life.
My gorgeous neighbor turns me into a fumbling mess, and I don’t exactly match the leggy, model-types I’ve seen him with. Despite the fact that we’re total opposites, our chemistry is almost hot enough to convince me to give the dating game another shot. (Not to mention, it’s totally off-brand to be a relationship skeptic.)
What could it hurt to practice what I preach? After all, Theo Hartley would be a fun specimen to practice with. And if things go south—which is my luck—I just have to remember what I tell my clients:
don’t hate the player...
________
QUIRKY HEROINE/HOT NEIGHBOR ROMCOM
My gorgeous neighbor turns me into a fumbling mess, and I don’t exactly match the leggy, model-types I’ve seen him with. Despite the fact that we’re total opposites, our chemistry is almost hot enough to convince me to give the dating game another shot. (Not to mention, it’s totally off-brand to be a relationship skeptic.)
What could it hurt to practice what I preach? After all, Theo Hartley would be a fun specimen to practice with. And if things go south—which is my luck—I just have to remember what I tell my clients:
don’t hate the player...
________
QUIRKY HEROINE/HOT NEIGHBOR ROMCOM
- GenresRom Com
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2019
16 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Holly Hall
6 books321 followersHolly Hall survives on coffee and red wine, would love to travel for a living, thinks animals are often better than humans, can count on one hand the number of things she loves more than reading and Texas A&M football (that might be an exaggeration), and couldn’t handpick a better family than her enormous one. She resides with her husband, daughter, and German shepherd in Houston, Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 22, 2019
Typically, I do not read books like this. There's nothing wrong with them, they just don't typically pique my interest. But I knew I wanted to read one of Holly's book and this one seemed like just what I needed and it came to me at the perfect time.
And wow-- I was right! Hate the Game was SO much fun to read! What a joy it was to actually laugh out loud with a book. The banter was genuine and unforced and the writing flowed so nicely that I got lost inside the pages. Not only all of that-- the story line was completely original. How cool to read the POV of a relationship consultant?!
"Maybe love wasn’t about the perfect person checking off all the boxes on your list. Maybe it was about the steady in the chaos; the person who, as life buzzed on around you, kept you grounded instead of caged."
I felt like the characters were so comfortable with themselves and confident and really three dimensional. It's so refreshing reading a book that contains characters that have a sense of humor. Every time they interacted, I had to run to the bathroom and pee because lets be real-- after you have kids your bladder just isn't the same even if you're giggling.
Holly needs to write more rom-coms. Period. Girlfriend really shined with this one. Hate the Game was just the right amount of light-hearted fun and heart-felt moments that kept me turning the pages just as quick as I could.
And wow-- I was right! Hate the Game was SO much fun to read! What a joy it was to actually laugh out loud with a book. The banter was genuine and unforced and the writing flowed so nicely that I got lost inside the pages. Not only all of that-- the story line was completely original. How cool to read the POV of a relationship consultant?!
"Maybe love wasn’t about the perfect person checking off all the boxes on your list. Maybe it was about the steady in the chaos; the person who, as life buzzed on around you, kept you grounded instead of caged."
I felt like the characters were so comfortable with themselves and confident and really three dimensional. It's so refreshing reading a book that contains characters that have a sense of humor. Every time they interacted, I had to run to the bathroom and pee because lets be real-- after you have kids your bladder just isn't the same even if you're giggling.
Holly needs to write more rom-coms. Period. Girlfriend really shined with this one. Hate the Game was just the right amount of light-hearted fun and heart-felt moments that kept me turning the pages just as quick as I could.
September 13, 2019
I do a lot of reading but I haven't read a good romcom in a while. So when I started reading Hate The Game I finished it in one night because I could not put it down. I laughed so hard my belly hurt. This is one of those hidden gems you have to read in order to enjoy it.
I will say that being a relationship expert and having doubts about yourself really showed me that Ava was real. She was hurt before so she was skeptical about putting herself out there especially when she thought she didn't have a chance with Theo.
Theo has recently moved into town and he is glad to be away from his old place because he got hurt really bad and the relationship ended on a bad note. So all he wants to do is start over somewhere fresh and new and begin to have a life again. He never thought his life would be different once he started seeing his neighbor.
I will say that being a relationship expert and having doubts about yourself really showed me that Ava was real. She was hurt before so she was skeptical about putting herself out there especially when she thought she didn't have a chance with Theo.
Theo has recently moved into town and he is glad to be away from his old place because he got hurt really bad and the relationship ended on a bad note. So all he wants to do is start over somewhere fresh and new and begin to have a life again. He never thought his life would be different once he started seeing his neighbor.
Read
September 13, 2019I gotta be honest......I got bored. DNF@35%.
August 13, 2019
4 Stars
Lighthearted. Fun. Feel good.
Right from the beginning I was hooked. It was more so obvious from that first laugh out of me, especially with the whole sumo-wrestler costume. From then on it was no surprise how much I’d enjoy this book and how it kept me thoroughly entertained.
I freaking adored Ava. Though there were times when I wanted to shake her, just a tiny bit. She was burned before so I understood her reservations when it came to Theo. She was a little jaded and also scared putting herself out there. Honestly, she just needed to get out of her head and take a chance, because if she didn’t, she wouldn’t know what or who she was missing out on.
Theo moved to Chicago for a fresh start. After a brutal breakup he just wants to move on and forget about that part in his life. He owns his own gym and things are looking up. When he first meets Ava, his neighbor, not even knowing, but it’ll be the start of something they both never expected. Theo is the biggest sweetheart. He had me swooning and left me giddy. He’s simply the best and I couldn’t get enough.
Both Theo and Ava having lingering effects from their previous relationship, but both just want to move on. They find a friend in each other and from there on it slowly progresses to something more. And of course it’s not all lovey-dovey and obviously there’s some drama and a twist here and a turn there, and it just added to the whirlwind. Theo and Ava were the absolute cutest. I loved how quirky Ava was and loved how she said whatever was on her mind. She was such a breath of fresh air. And Theo was just delicious. He was sweet, caring and had the biggest heart. I loved these two so much and just wanted more.
Hate the Game was a delightful romantic comedy that had me laughing and swooning left and right. It was refreshing and had me smiling nonstop. I fell for the Theo, the hot neighbor and Ava, the quirky girl. I also fell for Holland and I’m keeping my fingers crossed she gets a book. All in all, Hate the Game was an enjoyable read from start to finish.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
Lighthearted. Fun. Feel good.
Right from the beginning I was hooked. It was more so obvious from that first laugh out of me, especially with the whole sumo-wrestler costume. From then on it was no surprise how much I’d enjoy this book and how it kept me thoroughly entertained.
I freaking adored Ava. Though there were times when I wanted to shake her, just a tiny bit. She was burned before so I understood her reservations when it came to Theo. She was a little jaded and also scared putting herself out there. Honestly, she just needed to get out of her head and take a chance, because if she didn’t, she wouldn’t know what or who she was missing out on.
Theo moved to Chicago for a fresh start. After a brutal breakup he just wants to move on and forget about that part in his life. He owns his own gym and things are looking up. When he first meets Ava, his neighbor, not even knowing, but it’ll be the start of something they both never expected. Theo is the biggest sweetheart. He had me swooning and left me giddy. He’s simply the best and I couldn’t get enough.
Both Theo and Ava having lingering effects from their previous relationship, but both just want to move on. They find a friend in each other and from there on it slowly progresses to something more. And of course it’s not all lovey-dovey and obviously there’s some drama and a twist here and a turn there, and it just added to the whirlwind. Theo and Ava were the absolute cutest. I loved how quirky Ava was and loved how she said whatever was on her mind. She was such a breath of fresh air. And Theo was just delicious. He was sweet, caring and had the biggest heart. I loved these two so much and just wanted more.
Hate the Game was a delightful romantic comedy that had me laughing and swooning left and right. It was refreshing and had me smiling nonstop. I fell for the Theo, the hot neighbor and Ava, the quirky girl. I also fell for Holland and I’m keeping my fingers crossed she gets a book. All in all, Hate the Game was an enjoyable read from start to finish.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book*
September 12, 2019
Hate the Game, had me smiling from the get-go. Few romcoms have the power to keep me engaged, make me smile as well as laugh out loud.
But Holly most definitely hit the ground running with this fun, light and heartfelt read.
I loved Ava and Theo’s chemistry. Holly always has a way of making her characters real and relatable.
A refreshing romcom and one I desperately needed. To be honest I was sad when it was over.
I do have a question though, will there be a spin-off? Holland and Cade? Enquiring minds would like to know, cough, cough!
So, to round it up, if like me, you’re a Sophie Kinsella fan, then this is most definitely right up your alley.
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But Holly most definitely hit the ground running with this fun, light and heartfelt read.
I loved Ava and Theo’s chemistry. Holly always has a way of making her characters real and relatable.
A refreshing romcom and one I desperately needed. To be honest I was sad when it was over.
I do have a question though, will there be a spin-off? Holland and Cade? Enquiring minds would like to know, cough, cough!
So, to round it up, if like me, you’re a Sophie Kinsella fan, then this is most definitely right up your alley.
One-Click Now!
May 25, 2020
The start of Holly Hall’s first stab at RomCom had me giggling under my breath. I thought the first few pages were really intriguing and clever, and I couldn’t wait to read more!
For the sake of total honesty, for me this straddled the lines of RomCom and regular romance. There were definitely funny bits scattered throughout, and I laughed at times, but this was not one of the typical cheesy romance books that litter the RomCom genre. You know, the ones where clearly the author forced every funny moment, and it melts into a puddle of ridiculousness vs genuine true-to-life fun.
And despite the light feel of this book compared with Holly’s typical works, Theo and Ava retained all the slow-burn goodness and flawed authenticity that Hall writes best.
For the sake of total honesty, for me this straddled the lines of RomCom and regular romance. There were definitely funny bits scattered throughout, and I laughed at times, but this was not one of the typical cheesy romance books that litter the RomCom genre. You know, the ones where clearly the author forced every funny moment, and it melts into a puddle of ridiculousness vs genuine true-to-life fun.
And despite the light feel of this book compared with Holly’s typical works, Theo and Ava retained all the slow-burn goodness and flawed authenticity that Hall writes best.
August 17, 2019
"Maybe love wasn’t about the perfect person checking off all the boxes on your list. Maybe it was about the steady in the chaos ; the person who, as life buzzed on around you, kept you grounded instead of caged."
I do not read low drama, contemporary romance. There is absolutely nothing wrong with it, but my interests are darker, more unhinged, raw.
With that said, I legitimately loved Hate the Game. It was the antithesis of what I normally read and I caught myself thinking about this story even when I wasn't reading it. This is a teaching moment, for all of us who don't venture out of our beloved sub genres, do so every once in a while- you will be surprised by all the talent hiding about.
Holly Hall writes real, relatable characters. And a romance that I could easily imagine as a Netlfix/Hallmark/Lifetime whatever romantic dramedy. There was humor, but it was light, and self deprecating. Which brings me to Ava. She frustrated me, but then I had the stark realization that I related in a way to her. The way she constantly got stuck in her head. In a vicious cycle of thoughts, anxiety, what ifs, stuck in past hurts, etc. I was frustrated by her and for her.
Then Holly via Holland, (Ava's best friend) dropped this gem,
“Ava , I love you, but I don’t know how you’re not exhausted, with the way your mind works. The single guy who lives in your building keeps coming up with excuses to see you, and you’re still denying there’s anything there? You might be a little oblivious, but you’re not stupid.”
And it was like a meta self deprecating moment for our author AND character. I absolutely LOVE it when one character calls out another. But I get it, I get Ava.
Theo, oy, Theo- his POV was scattered throughout a predominantly Ava centered POV, but when it counted he snuck in there. He let us inside his head during such simple yet profound moments for this couple. I wanted MORE Theo, but part of the reason I loved this story was he was so stubborn to reveal himself to us readers, despite the contradicting open advances towards Ava.
All in all, this is a sweet story. An every day kind of romance. For anyone who likes their romance tame, with limited cursing, limited sexy times descriptors, etc., then definitely add this to your TBR. Even if you prefer things rough (*raises hand), gratuitous sex (*raises other hand), and overflowing with alllll the draaaaama (*nods vigorously) I urge you to step out of your zone and give this sweet romance a chance. I mean, there IS betrayal, albeit brief, but IT IS GOOOOD.
I do not read low drama, contemporary romance. There is absolutely nothing wrong with it, but my interests are darker, more unhinged, raw.
With that said, I legitimately loved Hate the Game. It was the antithesis of what I normally read and I caught myself thinking about this story even when I wasn't reading it. This is a teaching moment, for all of us who don't venture out of our beloved sub genres, do so every once in a while- you will be surprised by all the talent hiding about.
Holly Hall writes real, relatable characters. And a romance that I could easily imagine as a Netlfix/Hallmark/Lifetime whatever romantic dramedy. There was humor, but it was light, and self deprecating. Which brings me to Ava. She frustrated me, but then I had the stark realization that I related in a way to her. The way she constantly got stuck in her head. In a vicious cycle of thoughts, anxiety, what ifs, stuck in past hurts, etc. I was frustrated by her and for her.
Then Holly via Holland, (Ava's best friend) dropped this gem,
“Ava , I love you, but I don’t know how you’re not exhausted, with the way your mind works. The single guy who lives in your building keeps coming up with excuses to see you, and you’re still denying there’s anything there? You might be a little oblivious, but you’re not stupid.”
And it was like a meta self deprecating moment for our author AND character. I absolutely LOVE it when one character calls out another. But I get it, I get Ava.
Theo, oy, Theo- his POV was scattered throughout a predominantly Ava centered POV, but when it counted he snuck in there. He let us inside his head during such simple yet profound moments for this couple. I wanted MORE Theo, but part of the reason I loved this story was he was so stubborn to reveal himself to us readers, despite the contradicting open advances towards Ava.
All in all, this is a sweet story. An every day kind of romance. For anyone who likes their romance tame, with limited cursing, limited sexy times descriptors, etc., then definitely add this to your TBR. Even if you prefer things rough (*raises hand), gratuitous sex (*raises other hand), and overflowing with alllll the draaaaama (*nods vigorously) I urge you to step out of your zone and give this sweet romance a chance. I mean, there IS betrayal, albeit brief, but IT IS GOOOOD.
September 12, 2019
Hate the Game is another example of how I don’t seem to be the right audience for books labelled ‘rom-com’, as I did not let out a single giggle throughout the story. There were a couple of moments where I smiled, but that’s not enough for me to label a book a rom-com. I think, at this point, I need to accept my sense of humour is vastly different to what the genre aims for.
Although Hate the Game wasn’t the funny book I was expecting, it was an interesting read. I didn’t connect with the characters to the degree I had hoped for, but the story certainly had me turning the pages. It was light-hearted and easy to power through, one that kept me turning the pages. There were some elements I wasn’t overly crazy about, but it certainly had me curious to see how everything played out.
Overall, whilst this one wasn’t the laugh out loud book I’d hoped for, it was an easy quick read.
Although Hate the Game wasn’t the funny book I was expecting, it was an interesting read. I didn’t connect with the characters to the degree I had hoped for, but the story certainly had me turning the pages. It was light-hearted and easy to power through, one that kept me turning the pages. There were some elements I wasn’t overly crazy about, but it certainly had me curious to see how everything played out.
Overall, whilst this one wasn’t the laugh out loud book I’d hoped for, it was an easy quick read.
August 30, 2019
THIS IS HOLLY HALL'S BEST BOOK TO DATE! Holly Hall surprised me, BLEW ME OUT OF THE WATER, with her romcom HATE THE GAME. I laughed out loud so many times I lost count. I should have kept a tally sheet on my nightstand. I REALLY hope Holly writes more romcoms because I think this is what she's best at. As much as I love her angsty romance books, HTG was such a pleasant surprise and it truly gave me insight into who she is as a person.
Ava and Theo are a mismatch meant to be. They balance one another out well, with incredible chemistry and a ton of give and take. They push one another out of their comfort zones, toeing the lines of each other's boundaries and invading one another's lives ever so carefully. Throughout HATE THE GAME, you see growth not only in their friendship/relationship, but also within themselves. They're extremely relatable when it comes to self-doubt and lack of confidence, even though they KNOW they're capable of something. Like rubber bands, Ava and Theo snap back together time and again, but you don't get whiplash from it; you WANT them to be together and you want it to stick. This isn't a book where one has to prove their love for the other; they both fight for what they want, and who they want. Bravo, Holly. Now on to the next one!
Ava and Theo are a mismatch meant to be. They balance one another out well, with incredible chemistry and a ton of give and take. They push one another out of their comfort zones, toeing the lines of each other's boundaries and invading one another's lives ever so carefully. Throughout HATE THE GAME, you see growth not only in their friendship/relationship, but also within themselves. They're extremely relatable when it comes to self-doubt and lack of confidence, even though they KNOW they're capable of something. Like rubber bands, Ava and Theo snap back together time and again, but you don't get whiplash from it; you WANT them to be together and you want it to stick. This isn't a book where one has to prove their love for the other; they both fight for what they want, and who they want. Bravo, Holly. Now on to the next one!
August 29, 2019
Loving how relatable this book’s characters are! Ava is a relationship consultant who finally after working as such for years has crossed the line between job and personal. Doing a favor for a client ends up turning her world upside down, and in the process meets her neighbor Theo. Theo, who moved to the city to start his business along with a fresh start, ends up seeing Ava in the worst possible moment for her, but it’s what makes her more endearing. Unable to stop thinking about her, he ends up running into her coincidentally and decides to act on it. While both have been burned in past relationships, they take things extremely slow and really end up becoming friends before acting on any attraction and letting their feelings grow. But when that line Ava crossed comes to bite her also with a surprise connection to Theo, the risk of the relationship is on the line. This is my first read from this author but it definitely won’t be my last. I really enjoy her characters and how she writes them to be so personable and relatable to the reader! There were many times I wanted to just shake both Ava and Theo, but the outcome of this book made it worth it! Here’s to hoping we get a story with Holland and Cade!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 12, 2019
Theo and Ava are neighbors, but she doesn't really know how to act around him because she thinks he's so out of her league. She gets tongue twisted and everything but turns out this guy is so nice and sweet. Theo is attracted to Ava, they build this trust, this friendship and progress from there. They have chemistry, I liked their banter and their comfort around each other. Makes the next step an easy flow progression to love.
I was having a bit of a hard time connecting with her job, and her. But, I will say, Theo was easy to fall for. So swoony that guy! Easy rom com read with fun characters and adorable couple who wants to navigate their new friendship/romantic relationship. Rating it 3.5.
I was having a bit of a hard time connecting with her job, and her. But, I will say, Theo was easy to fall for. So swoony that guy! Easy rom com read with fun characters and adorable couple who wants to navigate their new friendship/romantic relationship. Rating it 3.5.
September 13, 2019
Gah, I really enjoyed this swoon- worthy romance. The POV in which the book was written was brilliant. I think the author nailed the character chemistry and their development. Theo and Ava gave me all the feels. The witty banter had me laughing out loud. I was so darn smitten with Theo. He gave me serious tummy flutters.
Can’t wait to read more by this author.
Can’t wait to read more by this author.
September 2, 2019
I've got to say this was adorable! I really enjoyed being able to read this! It was fun and cute and a quick read! I definitely think that Holly should write romcoms because she nailed this one! I also loved how she continued to keep things real as we got to see into Ava's head and her insecurities. It was definitely a fun and lighthearted read so if that is what you are after look no further!
September 14, 2019
I enjoyed several parts of this book. It just didn’t hook me. It could be part my fault. I’m not in the most book friendly emotional state. My reading appetite is not what it usually is.
I voluntarily read an early copy.
I voluntarily read an early copy.
Read
September 13, 2019I was bored out of my miiiind! DNF at 48%
November 26, 2019
LOVED this fun rom-com!
September 13, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book. I really like that Ava is a little quirky but still smart and productive. Theo is a walking heart throb with a heart of gold. I look forward to reading more from Holly Hall.
September 3, 2019
Not my first read by author and I must say that the BLURB got me hooked on this and so I was excited when I was able to get the ARC! What I like most about this author is the writing because when reading, everything just comes natural and smooth. The transitions flow and everything goes well together! This was one of those books!
After a horrible break-up Theo moves back to Chicago, this will be his new beginning. What's not to love, he is successful owning his own gym and things seem to just go for him finally. Until he realizes who his neighbor is and how they met. I will have to give it to him, he is BEYOND SWOON WORTHY and dreamy!! But with his past, he is not sure if he will be ever able to move on or start fresh.
Ava is a quirky, sky and out spoken, whatever she thinks she says. Loved that about her. She developed a friendship with Theo even after how they met, and so begins the slow-burn of that blurred line, to jump or not to jump. There are adventures, fun, laughter, of course little bit of danger and pain too...but all wrapped up in a cute romantic way. I really enjoyed them together and like I said, the story just flowed well!
Rating: ★★★★
Steamy: 🔥🔥🔥
Recommended: ☑
⇨ H A P P Y – R E A D I N G ⇦
October 14, 2019
So I have taken some time off from reviewing and have been reading for pleasure. Recently, I came across this book that immediately caught my attention and I was hooked from the first page. This must read book is called…………… Hate the Game by Holly Hall!!
Hate the Game is a story about Ava, a relationship consultant by day, single woman by night, who puts her heart into finding love for others. Ava, like all of us, has been hurt from a previous relationship and isn’t quite ready for love. So, you know what they say…..
Sometimes when you least expect it, love comes right to your front door. It has never happened to me but I also do not live in an apartment building like Ava. Side note: one of things that made this book come to life for me is that it is set in the heart of Chicago. Coincidentally, I was actually in Chicago when I was reading this book, but lets get back to Ava…..Ava coincidentally runs into Theo in her apartment building one night after coming home from work. Ava is given an assignment at work that Theo’s career makes for an ideal opportunity for them to spend more time together and their relationship starts to bloom. However, nothing is as it seems……does love conquer all? You will have to read the book!
This book is very well written and the story line is very exciting. I really enjoyed reading this book as it had a plot twist I didn’t see coming.
Special thanks for the author, Holly Hall, for giving me this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My review is solely based on my opinions of the book and are 100% my own.
Hate the Game is a story about Ava, a relationship consultant by day, single woman by night, who puts her heart into finding love for others. Ava, like all of us, has been hurt from a previous relationship and isn’t quite ready for love. So, you know what they say…..
Sometimes when you least expect it, love comes right to your front door. It has never happened to me but I also do not live in an apartment building like Ava. Side note: one of things that made this book come to life for me is that it is set in the heart of Chicago. Coincidentally, I was actually in Chicago when I was reading this book, but lets get back to Ava…..Ava coincidentally runs into Theo in her apartment building one night after coming home from work. Ava is given an assignment at work that Theo’s career makes for an ideal opportunity for them to spend more time together and their relationship starts to bloom. However, nothing is as it seems……does love conquer all? You will have to read the book!
This book is very well written and the story line is very exciting. I really enjoyed reading this book as it had a plot twist I didn’t see coming.
Special thanks for the author, Holly Hall, for giving me this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My review is solely based on my opinions of the book and are 100% my own.
September 9, 2019
This book hits the ground running. From the first chapter with Ava in a sumo suit I knew it was time to get comfortable on my couch and settle in for what was to play out.
And by the time I reached The End I was completely smitten and captivated by this book and of course its author.
To say Theo and Ava are opposites is an understatement. But as the old saying goes about opposites attracting this certainly was the case with these two. And it just worked.
I liked how Ava grew throughout the book. She was at first meek and mild both personally and professionally, but by the end of the book she knew exactly what she was worth.
Theo almost made it to my next book boyfriend status, and then something was revealed and I just wanted to throat punch him.
But the part that made me have a little cry was about Shorty. It almost broke my heart. As much as it hurts to read these types of scenes I think it adds an element of realness to the book which in turn only makes it better in my opinion.
Hopefully there will be a book about Ava's best friend Holland as I would love to read that.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
And by the time I reached The End I was completely smitten and captivated by this book and of course its author.
To say Theo and Ava are opposites is an understatement. But as the old saying goes about opposites attracting this certainly was the case with these two. And it just worked.
I liked how Ava grew throughout the book. She was at first meek and mild both personally and professionally, but by the end of the book she knew exactly what she was worth.
Theo almost made it to my next book boyfriend status, and then something was revealed and I just wanted to throat punch him.
But the part that made me have a little cry was about Shorty. It almost broke my heart. As much as it hurts to read these types of scenes I think it adds an element of realness to the book which in turn only makes it better in my opinion.
Hopefully there will be a book about Ava's best friend Holland as I would love to read that.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
September 11, 2019
Hate The Game is a cute and quirky neighbor romcom with one of the most awkward meet-cutes ever! I will never look at sumo wrestlers the same way again!
“Relationship consultant” Ava is nothing like the leggy model types she sees traipsing in and out of Theo’s apartment across the hall. She’s short and curvy, socially awkward, and he’s a fitness god who literally owns a gym. But there’s a definite spark between them. And the more Ava tries to just “test out” her practices on Theo, the more she discovers that the guy she least expected to fall for may be all that she’s ever wanted.
Ava and Theo are a great pair. They have an easy rapport, and I really liked the way they were written. The dialogue never felt clunky or unnatural, and the story flows nicely. The only other Holly Hall book I’ve read is Somewhere Between Us, and that was a vastly different story. Amazing in its own right, but full of drama and angst. Hate The Game is a much more lighthearted story, and I give HH props for being able to write such wildly different, but fantastic, stories.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
“Relationship consultant” Ava is nothing like the leggy model types she sees traipsing in and out of Theo’s apartment across the hall. She’s short and curvy, socially awkward, and he’s a fitness god who literally owns a gym. But there’s a definite spark between them. And the more Ava tries to just “test out” her practices on Theo, the more she discovers that the guy she least expected to fall for may be all that she’s ever wanted.
Ava and Theo are a great pair. They have an easy rapport, and I really liked the way they were written. The dialogue never felt clunky or unnatural, and the story flows nicely. The only other Holly Hall book I’ve read is Somewhere Between Us, and that was a vastly different story. Amazing in its own right, but full of drama and angst. Hate The Game is a much more lighthearted story, and I give HH props for being able to write such wildly different, but fantastic, stories.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
September 12, 2019
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Ava and Theo’s story. Ave and Theo are neighbor’s that have crazy hot chemistry. But they are complete opposites. Does that make them any less compatible? Ava has been burned before and is determined to set the pace of anything she has with anyone. But Theo is having none of it. These two have great banter back and forth and seems to be the right fit for each other. But will they try for something more then just fun? Or will they have there fun and leave each other behind?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Ava and Theo’s story. Ave and Theo are neighbor’s that have crazy hot chemistry. But they are complete opposites. Does that make them any less compatible? Ava has been burned before and is determined to set the pace of anything she has with anyone. But Theo is having none of it. These two have great banter back and forth and seems to be the right fit for each other. But will they try for something more then just fun? Or will they have there fun and leave each other behind?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
September 5, 2019
I just didn’t connect to the story or the characters. I felt winded reading most of the time and felt it didn’t flow.
She’s running around doing her job and then in pops the guy for a brief moment and then a new day begins.
There is a great friendship in this story which was great to read. Holland and Ava were true best friends.
The story did get better maybe half way through but then at that 80% mark when something goes wrong it didn’t make sense. I really had the thought of, “um... what?” She was confused. I was confused. It just didn’t flow correctly.
It would be fun to see Holland get a story because I love a good sports romance.
She’s running around doing her job and then in pops the guy for a brief moment and then a new day begins.
There is a great friendship in this story which was great to read. Holland and Ava were true best friends.
The story did get better maybe half way through but then at that 80% mark when something goes wrong it didn’t make sense. I really had the thought of, “um... what?” She was confused. I was confused. It just didn’t flow correctly.
It would be fun to see Holland get a story because I love a good sports romance.
September 6, 2019
To be honest, I was worried about this book. The first few chapters were a bit slow and I wasn't sure I was going to finish it. By the time I was about 12% in (I read on a kindle) I was hooked. The first few chapters aside, I thought this book was quick, fun, and gave that warm fuzzy feeling. I felt invested in the characters and the outcome of their relationship. I will confess that the twist towards the end was ingenious, and one that I did not see coming. My advice, persevere and you will be rewarded. Lots of fun.
September 11, 2019
Ava and Theo’s story is a beautifully written tale which flowed effortlessly. This is a fun, humorous, witty, light-hearted, and entertaining romantic comedy, with a tad drama and twists, which all had me totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I cannot wait to read more from this talented author, whose work I recommend for all readers.
August 30, 2019
This is a lighthearted easy to read book. The only reason I gave it 3 stars was because I wish it had more character build up and it seemed to cut off abruptly on all the sexy parts. It also ended abruptly. If ur into romcoms that are heavy on the romance this book is right up your alley!
September 10, 2019
one of the best books I have read in a while. It does not disappoint
September 13, 2019
Funny and engaging with just the right amount of friction. My first book by Holly Hall, but certainly not the last ;)
September 24, 2019
In love with Ava and Theo!
A definite must read! Rom-com at its finest. You’ll immediately fall in love with both characters and will want more.
A definite must read! Rom-com at its finest. You’ll immediately fall in love with both characters and will want more.
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