Out of Her League had some high moments, but also some low ones. Isa is easily the standout of the novel, and her storyline carries much of its emotional weight. Her struggle to step out from under her father’s legacy while honoring her mother’s sacrifices adds a compelling layer of internal conflict.

Austin’s story is emotional; however, it didn’t quite land as hard at Isa’s. His best friend saved his life when he was a kid, and after losing him to cancer a few years ago, he’s trying to do everything he can to save his foundation. He also needs to decide what to do with his career, as an injury ended it. I enjoyed the choice he eventually made, and I feel it was the right choice for him.

The romance was very promising, but it doesn’t quite live up to its potential. The fake dating and wedding elements introduce a fun and engaging dynamic, but they are surprisingly short-lived. Those moments showcase the strongest chemistry between Isa and Austin. And it was disappointing that the story didn’t linger there longer. Outside of those scenes, the romance feels like it’s missing a certain spark or tension needed to keep it consistently interesting.

Overall, while the emotional depth of the characters—particularly through family and personal struggles—stands out, the romance falls slightly flat compared to what it could have been.

Final Thoughts

Out of Her League has strong emotional moments, especially through Isa’s character and her family story, but it feels uneven overall. The romance shows promise with the fake-dating setup; however, it falls short and lacks the depth needed to stay engaging. Thank you to Netgalley for providing this arc! Hate Me Like You Mean It was released on May 12, 2026.

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