See you at the finish line

Hammett makes an effervescent debut with this enemies-to-lovers sports romance. Lucas, a cox for the Cambridge crew team, has always had issues with George, the club president, an underwear model from Wisconsin. After losing a big race against their rival, Oxford, the teammates hate each other more than ever. But these frenemies soon make a deal: "sex god" George will help the inexperienced Lucas woo his crush, Amir, and smarty-pants Lucas will help George pass his exams, a requirement for staying on the team. The arrangement starts off promisingly, but George surprises himself by becoming jealous as Lucas starts dating Amir; he realizes he's "full on longing" for Lucas and wants him to be his boyfriend. On the water, things are also shaky due to the duo's demoralizing demotion to second boat. Hammett keeps both the romantic and athletic plots gliding along smoothly on the way to a suitably dramatic finish at the big race. With amusing banter between the leads and sexual tension aplenty, including an awkward but heavily charged moment of the guys pressed close against each other in a closet, this diverting contemporary is a triumph. (Sept.)

Lucas wants to land the boy of his dreams. George wants people to see him as more than a hot jock. They're not exactly enemies, but despite sharing a boat on the Cambridge University rowing team, they don't quite see eye to eye, either. After they lose an important race due to George's bad call, Lucas is overheard criticizing his teammate, an American student imported for his athletic prowess, saying he'll never be able to pass his exams. Unfortunately for George, that's true. And unfortunately for both of them, they're the only two rowers studying economics. Lucas has no motivation to help George until the hapless himbo stops a very drunk Lucas from embarrassing himself in front of Amir, the boy he's been crushing on all year. With his defenses down, Lucas proposed a deal: He'll help George pass his exams if George helps Lucas land Amir. Initially, Lucas assumes they'll have to cheat, but as the two grow closer he realizes that George has been underestimated and is smarter than anyone gives him credit for. As George is teaching a very shy Lucas the art of seduction, the two men share a kiss that changes their relationship from one of near hostility to a more intimate friendship. Lucas' cynicism and sharp edges work well to complement George's sweet nature, like a cup of strong coffee with a sugary pastry. This sweet, slow-burn romance will appeal to readers who loved Casey McQuiston'sRed, White & Royal Blue (2019), but the dynamic setting and crisp banter in Hammett's impressive debut are totally his own. A swoony, unputdownable story with an unconventionally satisfying happily-ever-after. Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.