"Ugly Love" doesn't shy away from portraying love in all its messy realities. It explores the thrills of passion alongside the heartbreaks of unrequited feelings, the sting of betrayal, and the healing power of forgiveness. Through Tate and Miles's journey, the novel highlights that love rarely fits neatly into predefined boxes, and sometimes, the most fulfilling relationships emerge from the most unexpected circumstances.

Miles's insistence on keeping the past buried hints at a hidden pain that continues to haunt him. As Tate navigates their relationship, she grapples with the frustration of encountering an emotional wall built from past trauma. The novel reminds us that our histories shape our present and can significantly impact our ability to open ourselves to love and vulnerability.

A significant source of conflict in Tate and Miles's relationship stems from their lack of open and honest communication. While they establish ground rules to protect themselves from potential pain, their inability to address their growing feelings and understand each other's pasts ultimately leads to misunderstandings and hurt. The novel emphasizes the vital role of communication in building healthy and sustainable relationships.