The Hating Game – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

The Hating Game

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2016

62%

WISE Score

4.4

Amazon

The blueprint for modern 'enemies-to-lovers' office romance—sharp, electric, and definitely not for your middle schooler's backpack.

The Hating Game

book

2016

62%

WISE Score

4.4

Amazon

The blueprint for modern 'enemies-to-lovers' office romance—sharp, electric, and definitely not for your middle schooler's backpack.

4.4

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Screenwise Verdict

If you’re looking for a book to throw in your bag for a flight or a beach day, this is it. It’s the gold standard of contemporary romance for a reason: the chemistry between Lucy and Josh is top-tier and the writing is punchy.

But for parents, the main thing to know is that this isn't 'Young Adult.' It’s a very steamy book with very adult themes. The movie version might be a bit more sanitized, but the book leans all the way into the R-rated side of things. It’s great for your own nightstand, but probably not something you want to see your 14-year-old reading under the covers.

Age Fit

This is strictly for adults (17+). It’s a 'New Adult' romance, which means it’s written for people in their 20s and 30s who want a spicy, fun distraction. Don’t let the cute cover fool you into giving it to a tween.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

The plot centers on workplace rivals who are genuinely mean to each other for half the book. While it's a classic romance arc, the 'hating' involves a lot of toxic behavior and professional sabotage that isn't exactly a model for healthy relationships.

Imaginative

It stays firmly within the bounds of a contemporary office setting. It relies heavily on established romance tropes—enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, 'there's only one bed'—rather than building a unique world.

Safe

This is an adult romance novel with explicit sexual content and language. The 'cartoon' style cover often found on modern editions can be deceptive for parents; it looks like a middle-grade book but reads like an R-rated movie.

Enriching

The dialogue is sharp and the character development regarding Lucy’s self-worth and Josh’s family trauma adds some depth. It’s high-quality entertainment for its genre, even if it’s not 'educational' in a traditional sense.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

The banter is actually clever and avoids the 'cringe' factor found in many modern rom-coms.
It’s a masterclass in building romantic tension and chemistry.
A fast-paced read that works as a perfect mental reset for adults needing a break from reality.

⚠

What to Watch For

Explicit sex scenes that are graphic and frequent in the latter half of the book.
Workplace behavior that would realistically result in an immediate visit to HR.
The 'hating' can feel a bit obsessive and borderline unhealthy before the romantic pivot.

Conversation Starters

"Why does pop culture always link 'hating' someone with being attracted to them?"
"Is it ever actually a good idea to date a direct competitor at your job?"
"Where is the line between professional rivalry and actual harassment?"

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