About the Book

When life falls apart, sometimes you end up sleeping on your brother’s futon. For Beatrix (Rix), that means sharing space with Tristan Stiles—her brother’s childhood best friend, Toronto Terror hockey star, and the one man who drives her absolutely crazy. What starts as forced proximity turns into an explosive connection neither of them can ignore. This standalone romance from NYT and USA Today bestselling author Helena Hunting brings you all the tension, chemistry, and heart you crave in a sports romance.

From the Back Cover

“My new roommates are two pro hockey players. First, my older brother, and second, his seriously hot best friend who I seriously hate. This was a last resort.”

Beatrix needs a place to crash after her life implodes. Tristan Stiles needs his peace and quiet. What they both get is an undeniable attraction that threatens to burn everything down.

About the Author

Helena Hunting is a NYT and USA Today bestselling author known for her witty, emotional contemporary romances that keep readers hooked from page one. Living outside Toronto with her family, Hunting has mastered the art of writing sports romance that balances humor, heat, and genuine emotion. From her beloved Pucked series to the Toronto Terror books, she creates unforgettable characters and swoon-worthy love stories that resonate with romance readers worldwide.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is perfect for readers who love steamy sports romance with sharp banter and emotional depth. If you’re drawn to forbidden attraction, hockey player heroes, and heroines finding their way in life, you’ll devour this story. Fans of enemies-to-lovers dynamics, forced proximity, and relationships that evolve from hate to passionate love will find everything they’re looking for. Whether you’re a longtime Helena Hunting fan or new to hockey romance, this standalone delivers the perfect escape.

What You’ll Love About This Story

Dive into a world where hockey meets heart and enemies become lovers. You’ll experience the thrill of forbidden attraction as Rix and Tristan navigate living under the same roof while fighting their undeniable chemistry. Watch Rix discover her passion and confidence while Tristan confronts his fear of commitment. The witty dialogue will make you laugh, the steamy scenes will make you swoon, and the emotional journey will capture your heart completely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is If You Hate Me a standalone or do I need to read other books first?
This is a standalone hockey romance that can be enjoyed on its own. While it’s the first book in the Toronto Terror series, each book features a different couple with a complete story arc. You don’t need any prior knowledge to jump right in.

How spicy is If You Hate Me on a romance heat scale?
This book is definitely on the spicier side with explicit romantic content. It’s recommended for adult readers (18+) who enjoy steamy scenes and mature themes. If you prefer clean romance, this might not be the right fit.

What makes this brother’s best friend romance different from others?
Helena Hunting brings her signature blend of humor, emotion, and chemistry to this classic trope. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic adds extra tension, and both characters have genuine personal growth arcs. Rix isn’t just crushing on her brother’s friend—she’s building her own life and discovering who she is.

Do I need to love hockey to enjoy this romance?
Not at all! While the hockey setting adds atmosphere and excitement, the focus is on the relationship between Rix and Tristan. The story explores their connection, personal struggles, and emotional journey. Hockey fans will love the authentic details, but romance is what drives the plot.