The Hating Game | Sally Thorne

The Hating Game: A Novel

Extended Synopsis

Debut author Sally Thorne bursts onto the literary scene with The Hating Game, a hilarious, sexy, and smart workplace comedy that masterfully explores the thin, fine line between intense rivalry and unexpected romance. The story introduces Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman, two executive assistants to the co-CEOs of a prominent publishing company who share a mutual, undisguised loathing. Sitting directly across from one another daily, they engage in a series of highly ritualistic, passive-aggressive maneuvers to display their complete disdain for each other's professional philosophies.

Lucy cannot comprehend Joshua's joyless, uptight, and meticulously cold approach to his duties, while Joshua is visibly baffled by Lucy's vibrant wardrobe, eccentric quirkiness, and relentlessly optimistic outlook. When they are both put in direct competition for the exact same high-level promotion, their ongoing battle of wills reaches a breaking point. Lucy refuses to back down, recognizing that this latest professional game could cost her her dream career. However, as the workplace tension hits a boiling point, unexpected psychological shifts occur, leading Lucy to wonder if she truly hates Joshua—and if he might feel the exact same way about her.

Reader Targeting

• Enthusiasts of contemporary romance, workplace comedies, and the enemies-to-lovers trope.
• Readers looking for witty, fast-paced dialogue, sharp character development, and high chemistry narrative arcs.
• Fans of modern romantic fiction seeking a clever, definitive classic within the romantic comedy genre.

Accolades & Awards

• A celebrated USA Today Bestseller and highly acclaimed breakout contemporary romance debut.

Author Biography

Sally Thorne is a bestselling contemporary romance author recognized for her sharp wit and engaging character dynamics. The Hating Game marked her highly successful debut into fiction, establishing her as a prominent voice in modern romantic comedy and capturing the attention of millions of international readers.

Bust-Down Books: More Than a Bookstore