Hate to Want You

This was a slow starter for me (like most contemporaries seem to be, for some reason), but once it got going, I was all in. Loved the MC and the side characters, who all felt realistic and well-drawn, even if they didn't get a lot of time - particular favorites are Sadia and Aunt Maile. Effortlessly diverse with a truly compelling plot. Loved the representation of mental illness/depression. I'm stopping by the library today to get the next book in this series, and I'm probably gonna try to read Rai's back catalog after that. I'm not a huge contemporary reader but this is a standout. And, um, not for nothing, but this book had some of the best sex scenes I've read - especially the first one, goddamn.

3.5 stars

I struggled with a rating for this one as some parts really worked for me and other parts just didn't.

I liked the background of the two families, their relationships and eventual fall out. The grandfather and aunt were lovely and had some touching moments. I also really liked Livvy as a character, but really didn't get on with Nicholas. There was just something about him that annoyed me, some times he was like a robot and others was over the top.

I listened to this one on audio and enjoyed the dual narration, so if I continue I'll keep listening to them as they're a fairly easy listen.