Rowing might sound like an unlikely backdrop for a queer love story — but author Zac Hammett has turned the intensity of Cambridge University’s boat crews into the setting for his buzzworthy debut novel, See You At The Finish Line. Published this week and already optioned for television, the book is drawing comparisons to Red, White & Royal Blue.
Enemies to Lovers on the Cam
At its heart, the story follows two students and rowing teammates:
- George, the all-American athlete on scholarship, more muscle than motivation.
- Lucas, the sharp, bookish Brit who’s had to fight for every opportunity.
When word spreads that George has been getting “preferential treatment” from the university, he’s suddenly forced to prove himself academically. Reluctantly, Lucas agrees to tutor him — but only if George coaches him on how to win the heart of his long-time crush, Amir.
Naturally, the arrangement backfires in the best possible way. The more time George and Lucas spend together, the more undeniable their connection becomes.
Inspired by College Romance
Hammett, who studied at Cambridge, admits he never rowed himself. Instead, his inspiration came from the choir loft.
“I never stepped foot in a rowing boat,” he told The Nerd Daily. “I was in the chapel choir, and my first boyfriend was the organ scholar… Although very different from rowing, we rehearsed six times a week, so I can relate to the experience of falling in love within that very intense, high-pressure setting.”
From Page to Screen
Entertainment company Noho Film & Television snapped up the adaptation rights almost immediately.
“From the moment we picked up Zac’s perfectly crafted novel, we realised it was something special,” a spokesperson told Deadline. “A love story between two outsiders in a high-stakes world, with the agony of love, the cliff-edge of failure, stunning locations — and men in Lycra.”
Unlike Red, White & Royal Blue, which became a film, Hammett’s story will be adapted as a TV series. Casting has yet to be announced, but speculation is already swirling.
Casting Dreams
Hammett himself describes George as “if Legally Blonde was a gay himbo.” Fan suggestions for the role include:
- Mason Gooding (Love, Victor), who’s openly campaigned for queer roles.
- Oscar Morgan (Before We Forget), a rising British actor who could easily embody Lucas’ sharp intellect.
- Misia Butler (Kaos), a trans-masc performer whose casting as a uni athlete would carry powerful resonance.
- Leo Reich (Too Much), whose comedic timing could bring fresh wit to Lucas.
For now, it’s all speculation — but anticipation is already high.
A New Queer Classic?
Between Hammett’s witty dialogue, the intensity of university rowing culture, and the irresistible pull of an enemies-to-lovers romance, See You At The Finish Line looks set to become one of queer fiction’s next big hits. And with a TV series in the works, George and Lucas may soon row their way into hearts around the world.
