Sadie and Seb have been competing since elementary school. While their families are friends, they remain fierce academic rivals. When Sadie begins her freshman year of college, she is shocked to see Seb there. Seb made it off the waitlist and is soon competing with Sadie for a spot on the school's beloved zine. As they experience freshman year together, they get closer than ever before. Can Sadie and Seb ever be more than rivals? 

The Rival is a sweet and hilarious rom-com. I especially loved Sadie! She feels very responsible for her family and freshman year is her chance to see who she is without managing others emotions. Seb is charming, though sometimes he and Sadie really misinterpret each other. Emma Lord includes so many fun details in this book from Alphabet parties, rainbow-sprinkle pancakes, and lots of new friends. I really enjoyed how Sadie and Seb went from rivals to friends to more.  

The Rival is perfect for readers who enjoy sweet rom-coms with hilarious dialogue. This book was as delicious as all the treats written about inside it! I can’t wait to see what Emma Lord writes next.

Thank you to Emma Lord, Wednesday Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.