Book Review: Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

Ali Hazelwood has the romance awakening for so many. That’s why I was so anxious to start Love, Theoretically.

You might recognize Ali Hazelwood from her debut novel, The Love Hypothesis. She followed it up with 3 STEMinist novellas and another novel, Love On The Brain. While each has gotten mixed reactions, none has superseded The Love Hypothesis.

Unfortunately, I was in the camp of those who didn’t love her debut so when I got an ARC of Love, Theoretically, I was nervous. While I have thoughts, I’d like to first thank Berkley for sending me an early copy to read before release.

With that being said, it’s the moment romance readers and non-romance readers have been waiting for. Love, Theoretically is out in the world and there are plenty of thoughts to be shared about it.

Love, Theoretically is a refreshingly fun romance from Ali Hazelwood.

As I said, I didn’t love Ali Hazelwood’s debut so I was nervous to start Love, Theoretically yet I had no reason to be. The story follows Elsie who is a theoretical physicist and adjunct professor who is also hired to be people’s fake girlfriends. If it sounds a little unbelievable, it is but it’s part of the charm.

It all comes to a head when Elsie comes face-to-face with Jack who is her fake boyfriend’s brother and someone who seemingly destroyed her hopes at a career. Of course, the two are forced together as Elsie is interviewing at MIT and that’s where Jack works so from there, it’s a waiting game.

While the two have some animosity toward each other, it’s so clear they want each other, and watching these two smart idiots fall in love was great. I don’t want to give away too much because I feel like it’s best to go in, not knowing everything. While this was a solid read for me, it wasn’t a perfect read yet it’s easily my favorite Ali Hazelwood I’ve read yet.

That’s not to say I have no complaints about Love, Theoretically. I will say that all of the scientific stuff went over my head. However, I do think upon reading the author’s note, it made sense yet that can offputting to some readers. I also don’t particularly enjoy the way this author writes sex scenes.

Other than that, this was a pretty well-rounded book and a massive surprise for me. I think if you didn’t love her debut, you might end up enjoying Love, Theoretically as I did. Coupled with the cute cover and just downright undeniable connection these two had, you’ll be thinking about Elsie and Jack long after you close the book.

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood is out now wherever books are sold.

Will you be picking up Love, Theoretically? If so, make sure to let us know your thoughts!