Jennifer Sucevic's Hate You Always is a contemporary romance novel that delves into the complexities of attraction, friendship, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of college life, the story follows the evolving relationship between Juliette and Ryder, two characters who have known each other for years but have never quite seen eye to eye. The novel is a delightful exploration of how preconceived notions and hidden desires can lead to unexpected connections.

The narrative kicks off with an intriguing premise: a bucket list and a romance novel. Juliette, the protagonist, has always been the studious type, focused on her academic goals and her dream of attending medical school. In contrast, Ryder is portrayed as the quintessential college athlete, surrounded by admirers and living a carefree life. The tension between them is palpable from the start, with Sucevic skillfully crafting a dynamic that is both electrifying and frustrating. The chemistry between Juliette and Ryder is undeniable, and the author does a commendable job of building this tension throughout the novel.

One of the standout elements of Hate You Always is its character development. Juliette is a relatable and well-rounded character, embodying the struggles of balancing personal desires with academic ambitions. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to step out of her comfort zone and embrace the unpredictability of life. Ryder, on the other hand, is initially presented as a typical jock, but as the story unfolds, Sucevic peels back the layers to reveal a more complex and sensitive individual. His decision to help Juliette with her bucket list is a turning point in the narrative, showcasing his growth and the depth of his character.

The bucket list itself serves as a clever narrative device, propelling the plot forward and providing a framework for the characters' interactions. Each item on the list represents a challenge or a fear that Juliette must confront, and Ryder's involvement adds an element of unpredictability and excitement. The list also serves as a metaphor for the characters' personal growth, as they learn to confront their insecurities and embrace new experiences.

In terms of themes, Hate You Always explores the idea of breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. The novel highlights the importance of looking beyond surface-level judgments and understanding the complexities of human relationships. It also touches on the theme of self-acceptance, as both Juliette and Ryder learn to embrace their true selves and let go of societal expectations.

Comparatively, Sucevic's work can be likened to other contemporary romance novels that explore similar themes of unexpected love and personal growth. Fans of Elle Kennedy's Off-Campus series or Colleen Hoover's It Ends with Us will likely find Hate You Always appealing. Like these authors, Sucevic has a knack for creating relatable characters and engaging storylines that resonate with readers.

One of the novel's strengths is its dialogue, which is witty and authentic. The banter between Juliette and Ryder is both humorous and heartfelt, adding depth to their relationship and making their interactions feel genuine. Sucevic's writing style is engaging and accessible, drawing readers into the world she has created and keeping them invested in the characters' journeys.

However, while the novel excels in many areas, there are moments where the pacing feels uneven. Some readers might find the progression of Juliette and Ryder's relationship to be somewhat predictable, as it follows a familiar enemies-to-lovers trope. Nevertheless, Sucevic manages to infuse enough originality and charm into the story to keep it fresh and enjoyable.

Overall, Hate You Always is a captivating and heartwarming read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance. Jennifer Sucevic has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that are easy to root for and a plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The novel's exploration of themes such as self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of unexpected connections makes it a worthwhile addition to any romance lover's bookshelf.

In conclusion, Hate You Always is a testament to the idea that love can be found in the most unlikely of places and that sometimes, the people we least expect can have the most profound impact on our lives. Whether you're a fan of romance novels or simply looking for a feel-good story with relatable characters, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.