Introduction
If you love witty banter, slow-burn romance, and the enemies-to-lovers trope, then you’ve probably heard about the hating game a novel. Written by Australian author Sally Thorne, this romantic comedy has captured the hearts of readers around the world. It’s a story that takes place in an office, but it feels anything but boring. With sharp humor, sizzling chemistry, and memorable characters, it has become a modern rom-com favorite.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the novel—its story, characters, themes, reception, and even its movie adaptation. Let’s dive into the world of Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman.
What is The Hating Game a Novel About?
At its core, the hating game a novel is a contemporary romance that mixes comedy with workplace drama. First published in 2016 by William Morrow, it marked Sally Thorne’s debut. The book quickly became a bestseller and earned praise for refreshing the romantic comedy genre.
The novel follows Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman, two executive assistants at a publishing house that resulted from a merger. They sit across from each other every day, locked in a constant battle of wits, glares, and sarcastic games. Their rivalry reaches a new level when they both compete for the same promotion. What starts as a battle of hate slowly transforms into an undeniable attraction.
The Storyline of The Hating Game a Novel
The story begins with Lucy and Josh playing their usual office “hating games.” These range from the “Staring Game” to the “Mirror Game,” each designed to irritate the other. Lucy is bubbly and outgoing, while Josh is serious and meticulous. Their differences seem impossible to bridge.
Things take a sharp turn when the publishing company announces a new position. Both Lucy and Josh are candidates. The rule? Whoever doesn’t get the job must resign. This raises the stakes and intensifies their rivalry.
But in between the competition, cracks appear in their hatred. A surprising kiss in the office elevator makes Lucy question her feelings. She starts seeing sides of Josh she never noticed—his protectiveness, his humor, and his vulnerabilities.
The novel unfolds with moments of tension, misunderstanding, and emotional growth. From a company paintball day to a wedding weekend with Josh’s family, their connection deepens. By the end, Lucy realizes that her so-called enemy may just be the person she’s been looking for all along.
Main Characters and Their Roles
Lucy Hutton
Lucy is quirky, kind, and warm-hearted. She loves bright colors, quirky collectibles, and always tries to be friendly. But beneath her cheerful surface, she feels pressure to prove herself in a tough corporate environment.
Joshua Templeman
Josh is Lucy’s opposite—tall, intimidating, and known for his no-nonsense approach. While he seems cold at first, readers later see his insecurities, loyalty, and softer side. His dynamic with Lucy is the heart of the story.
Supporting Characters
- Helene Pascal and Richard Bexley – The co-CEOs who represent the two merged companies.
- Danny – Lucy’s date, who sparks jealousy in Josh.
- Patrick Templeman – Josh’s brother, who complicates family dynamics.
- Mindy – Josh’s ex, adding tension to Lucy’s feelings.
Together, these characters add depth and push Lucy and Josh toward self-discovery.
Key Themes in The Hating Game a Novel
Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
This is the driving force of the novel. The tension between hate and attraction keeps readers hooked.
Workplace Rivalry
The competitive office setting shows how ambition can clash with personal feelings. It adds real-world stakes to their relationship.
Personal Growth
Both Lucy and Josh learn to break down their walls. Lucy gains confidence in her career, while Josh allows himself to be vulnerable.
Humor and Banter
The witty exchanges and playful games make the novel lighthearted despite the rivalry.
Writing Style and Tone
Sally Thorne’s writing is funny, sharp, and filled with chemistry. She balances humor with heartfelt moments, making the story feel relatable and fresh. Her use of short, snappy dialogue keeps the pace lively, while the emotional depth of her characters makes the romance feel real.
Reception and Impact of The Hating Game a Novel
When it was released in 2016, the book quickly gained recognition. It became a USA Today bestseller, and was published in over 25 countries.
It was chosen as one of the Top 20 Romance Novels of 2016 by The Washington Post and even ranked #7 on Oprah Magazine’s list of best romance novels of all time. Readers loved the chemistry between Lucy and Josh, and the novel was shortlisted for the Goodreads Choice Awards in the romance category.
Critics praised Thorne for reviving the romantic comedy genre with a modern twist. Readers still recommend the book to anyone who loves witty, banter-filled romances.
Movie Adaptation of The Hating Game a Novel
In December 2021, the hating game a novel was adapted into a movie directed by Peter Hutchings. The film starred Lucy Hale as Lucy Hutton and Austin Stowell as Joshua Templeman.
While adaptations always spark debate, many fans enjoyed seeing their favorite characters come to life on screen. The movie captured the banter and chemistry that made the book a hit, though some felt the book’s deeper layers worked better on the page.
Why The Hating Game a Novel Remains Popular
Even years after its release, the book continues to attract new readers. The enemies-to-lovers trope remains one of the most beloved in romance, and Thorne’s unique spin on it keeps the story fresh.
Its mix of humor, emotion, and slow-burn tension makes it appealing to a wide audience. Plus, with the movie adaptation, it has reached an even broader fan base.
Should You Read The Hating Game a Novel?
If you love contemporary romance with sharp dialogue and great chemistry, this book is a must. It’s perfect for fans of workplace drama, romantic comedy, or slow-burn love stories.
If you enjoyed books like Beach Read by Emily Henry or The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren, you’ll likely enjoy this one too.
Conclusion
The hating game a novel isn’t just another romance—it’s a witty, heartfelt story that has earned its place among the best modern rom-coms. With unforgettable characters, sizzling tension, and laugh-out-loud moments, it continues to charm readers worldwide.
Whether you pick up the book or watch the movie, Lucy and Josh’s story is bound to make you laugh, swoon, and maybe even rethink what it means to hate—or to love.
