I Hated You First by Rachel John | A Mini Review of a Romantic Comedy Novel
*I voluntarily received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author. All thoughts below are my own and I was not required to post a positive review. Also, this blog post includes affiliate links which means I will receive a commission based on sales generated via these links.
FUN AND FLIRTY
If you’re looking for the perfect summer romance - look no further!
In her newest release, I Hated You First, Rachel John delivers a hilarious story of falling in love, then hiding that romance while navigating the challenges of working in a family-owned business and family meddling in YOUR business! I laughed out loud through this page turner that’s much more than just a romantic comedy… It’s a must read for 2021!
Sometimes love is war.
Clay: My best friend has held a grudge against his half-sister, Lauren, forever. It’s unjustified and ridiculous, but I have to take his side. Also ridiculous? How bad I have it for her.
My Lauren radar goes off the second she steps in the building. Did I mention we work together and her dad’s the boss? Yeah, she’s so off-limits I might as well start running now and never come back.
Except, her family is like family to me. So, I’ll do whatever it takes to stick around, even if she hates my guts.
Lauren: I date guys nothing like Clay on purpose. I will not let my old crush on him get the best of me. It’s going on the list of things I’ve outgrown and will deny ever having, like the Justin Bieber poster I used to keep on the back of my door.
It doesn’t matter that I’ve caught Clay looking at me like he’s a jewel thief and I’m a precious gem encased in glass. He’d never choose me over my brother, or his job, or his enjoyment in teasing me.
Avoiding Clay is easy, until the day I realize my dad’s asked for Clay’s help in checking up on my dates.
No stinking way.
★★★★★ | This adorable romantic comedy by author Rachel John was the perfect afternoon escape with its witty banter, real life drama and forbidden romance/love hate trope! I laughed out loud through this page-turner, fully immersed in Lauren and Clay’s story as they begin to admit their feelings to each other while navigating the increasingly challenging waters of being coworkers in Lauren’s family business while keep their romance secret from Parker, Clay’s best friend and Lauren’s brother and Lauren’s Dad, their boss!
Rachel John surprised me with a story that was more than a love/hate relationship that turned into a secret romance. It was about two young people falling deeply in love, making sacrifices for the sake of each other and growing both personally and together. Her character development won me over as she offered not just a romantic comedy, but also a book that dove a little deeper than just surface feelings.
Related Post: Love Romantic Comedies? Check out The Cul-de-sac War by Melissa Ferguson
I personally enjoyed how Rachel John balanced the more hilarious scenes with a heavy dose of reality and emphasized family values, personal perception and allowing one’s self to reflect on the past and be open to new things.
This story was well written, moved at a great pace keeping me fully entertained and the secondary characters were just as fantastic as the lead characters! (Shout out to Clay’s Grandma… I liked her from the start!). It truly was a sweet rom/com!
A definite read for the summer!
Hurry and grab this new release TODAY!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rachel John loves to read anything with romance or humor, and thinks the best books should combine the two. She's found that writing is the best outlet for her wild imagination. She's a terrible cook, but unfortunately for her family, she keeps trying. Rachel lives in Arizona with her husband, four crazy kids, and her desert tortoise. Come visit Rachel on her Facebook page, website (www.racheljohnwrites.com), or Instagram. She'd love to hear from you!
