People think we live one life: THE RIVAL.

The Rival by Emma Lord
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Lifelong academic rivals, Sadie and Seb, have spent years locked in a battle of wits and will. Sadie thinks she’s finally free of him in college—ready to reinvent herself—until he unexpectedly makes it off the waitlist and shows up on campus. Their competitive fire reignites as they both set their sights on the same coveted spot at the school’s zine, Newsbag, trading sharp banter and well-aimed zingers along the way.

But soon, their rivalry takes a backseat to a bigger issue: student-run organizations like Newsbag are struggling to stay funded while sports programs seem to have an endless cash flow. Suddenly, the two aren’t just competing for a position—they’re fighting to ensure the zine survives at all. Forced to work together, Sadie begins to realize that Seb is the one person who truly sees her, beyond the image she’s carefully curated for her boisterous family. He understands her humor, her love of writing, and the parts of herself she’s hidden for years.

The novel repeatedly underscores the pressures both Sadie and Seb face from their families—Sadie, expected to be the peacemaker, and Seb, expected to be the perfect student. And if you don’t catch this theme the first time, don’t worry—you’ll be reminded at least 50 more. Their so-called "rivalry" is also hammered home constantly, despite it being glaringly obvious to everyone (except them) that their animosity is fueled by something much deeper. When the story shifts focus to their slow-burn realization of feelings, Sadie’s personal growth, and the struggles of student-led organizations, it becomes far more engaging. Unfortunately, the forced antagonism and family dynamics start to feel repetitive and frustrating.

That said, the book shines in its side characters—like the lovable lesbian café owners, the Newsbag team, and Sadie’s roommate, Christina (to whom Sadie is, frankly, a terrible friend for much of the novel). While her self-actualization is central to the story, her selfishness makes it hard to root for her at times.

There are plenty of sweet and enjoyable moments here, but they’re sometimes weighed down by repetition and overused tropes. YA readers may find comfort in its exploration of parental expectations and the journey of self-discovery in college, but a little more nuance would have made this story truly stand out.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Wednesday Books in exchange for an honest review.

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