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To Have and Hate

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'To Have and Hate' by Donna Alam is a contemporary romance that follows the story of Olivia, an independent woman who is in need of funds to keep her struggling business afloat. She crosses paths with Beckett, a curt and intense man who offers her a monetary proposal that includes marriage for six months. As they navigate this unconventional arrangement, their relationship evolves from enemies to lovers, filled with tension, banter, and undeniable chemistry. The plot is described as involving an up and down adventure to love, with well-drawn characters and a fresh and exciting storyline.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Olivia being strong-willed and independent, while Beckett is depicted as flawed and controlling, contributing to their chemistry.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is witty and engaging, effectively blending humor with steamy romance while developing strong characters.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers around a marriage of convenience where the protagonists initially see each other as business means but develop deeper feelings as they navigate their relationship.

Setting:

The story is set in London, incorporating both business and social environments.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally fast, with engaging events, although some readers felt the ending was rushed.

Notes:

Olivia needs funding to save her dating app business.
She literally runs into Beckett before a financial presentation.
Beckett proposes a marriage of convenience for six months in exchange for funding.
The story features a strong-willed American woman and a haughty British financier.
There is a significant age gap between the leads, portraying an enemies to lovers dynamic.
The chemistry between Olivia and Beckett is described as blazing hot and steamy.
The book is narrated by Shane East, whose performance is praised.
The narrative unfolds in London and incorporates relatable dialogue and cultural references.
Readers appreciate the snarky banter and tension-filled encounters between the characters.
Despite their attraction, Olivia struggles with Beckett’s controlling nature.
The story is a mix of romance, humor, and drama, with complex characters.
The ending left some readers wanting more depth and resolution.
It's a complete standalone contemporary romance with dual points of view.
Many readers enjoyed the characters but found Beckett manipulative and flawed.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are medium-level triggers including issues of manipulation and controlling behaviors.

Has Romance?

There is a strong romantic element characterized by significant chemistry and conflict between the main characters.

From The Publisher:

"Everyone has their price, Olivia."

"There isn't enough money in the world to persuade me to marry you."

Beckett. Let me count the ways I loathe him.

1. He's the bane of my existence.

2. A thorn in my side.

3. I'm pretty sure he's the devil in disguise

Or he at least has him on speed-dial.

So why am I standing here, bouquet in hand, about to become his wife?

He calls it a business proposition.

I call it blackmail.

He says our fighting is foreplay.

I say he should be on meds.

He says he has the power to destroy my company.

I say with a husband like him, who needs enemies.

But I can survive this six-month calamity.

All I have to do is keep hating him . . .

To Have and Hate is a standalone hate-to-love fest featuring an older hot Brit, a marriage of convenience, and a whole lot of fire and fun!

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