Love, Theoretically

Thank you, Ali, for giving us another hunky, mountain-sized man. I know the massive guy/smaller girl cliche is hated but . . . I kinda love it. And it's a Hazelwood staple. So thanks.But on to the book:The romance was whirlwind once started—though true enemies-to-lovers at the beginning. There's miscommunication, but not to a frightening extent (I like that trope tho, so can you really believe me?), but the book's otherwise pretty trope-less and original. I ADORED seeing a diabetic character as a protagonist and not making her whole arc or every interaction about diabetes!There was a lot of screen time to the academic side. Almost too much for your average layperson, but not quite. I found I wasn't as bored by it as I was reading her other book, Love on the Brain, though it has more than The Love Hypothesis. (Though as a person employed at an institution mentioned in the book, some of the academic aspects hit hard.)I didn't feel like the mental aspect went too far down the rabbit hole. In some ways, Elsie's problems are relatable to everyone, even if not at this level. I was really nervous that the focus would become ENTIRELY on that plotline—mental health—but it was just an important aspect instead of the entire focus. The MC also didn't overdo the tough love aspect, as far as him demanding her to be forthcoming (though a few things skirted the line, and I worried with the whole 'I want you because you've never shown your OG self and I like things that have never happened before' aspect might lead to him breaking up with her once he HAS seen all the new things, but the deep commitment romantic whirlwind that felt a little unrealistic actually evened out this fear lol.) I've seen that dominating-guy-commands-her-to-speak-thoughts done wrong in other romance books, but it didn't go far enough to feel icky in this one.Hazelwood has such a way of writing modern characters. Maybe it's her fanfiction background, but the stories feel so alive in the way fanfiction does, except polished. It does throw me when I read references to things so recent, though! (For example, referencing Young Sheldon tv show season 7, which was just announced a few months ago? Or AOC references? You on the ball, Ali!)Reaching the character growth in this book made me realize that while The Love Hypothesis is my all-time favorite book, the characters don't really grow in it. Olive is wonderful at the start and Olive is wonderful at the finish. But Elsie's transformation is really distinguishable between chapter one and the end of the book. Jacks too, in some ways, but let me focusAll in all, Love, Theoretically didn't sing to me like TLH, but it was wonderful nonetheless. I laughed, I misted a little, and I read it all in one sitting. I feel like I got COVID-quarantine vibes from this book. It was cozy and easy and soft to read.

Ali Hazelwood books has always been a guilty pleasure read for me. Whenever I pick up one of her novels I know I will be entertained with nerdy goodness and quirky, lovable, intelligent characters. The novel does focus a little heavier on the scientific side as well as the politics in academia. However, I felt the information was necessary for the purpose of the plot, especially with Elsie's journey as she interviews for her dream job at MIT.In terms of the characters, I felt our heroine, Elsie was pretty similar to Ali's previous female leads. The only difference is she is more of a people pleasure. However, as the story progresses she learns to be more honest and true to herself. Unfortunately, I didn't really connect with Elsie. I felt her character was inconsistent. She is suppose to be this smart and perceptive character, but she is quick to judge (incorrectly I might add) and is completely oblivious to Jack's intentions, despite how direct he is with his feelings. On the other hand, I was genuinely surprise by the hero, Jack (aka Jonathon Smith-Turner). I loved his character. Totally different from Ali's previous male leads. He is observant, confident, thoughtful, communicative, and honest. His devotion and patience with Elsie made my heart melt. Out of all of the male leads Ali had written so far, he is probably my favorite.In terms of the climax of the story, it's nothing new. Very predictable. If you have read all the previous novels, you already know who the "villain" is in the story. As stated in my previous reviews, it would be nice to see a supportive male mentor character, because we know they also exist in the field of science.Overall, it was an enjoyable read. Had lots of lovable, fun moments. Loved the cameos. However, wouldn't mind something different in future novels.

Entrega foi super rápida e o livro é lindo, nunca tinha visto a edição capa dura e achei linda demais. Único porém é que veio um pouco sujinho e seria melhor se estivesse embalado ainda, pra chegar 100%. Vou conseguir limpar a jacket e a capa mas a lombada é quase impossível.Mas fora isso é uma edição belíssima!

This book delivered exactly what I would hope from a STEM rom-com. It was witty, lighthearted, cute, had a bit of spice, and was a fun and engaging read. Not life changing, but such a delight to devour! I recommend this novel. It is my favourite Ali novel to-date.

*4.5I absolutely loved this book! Generally, I really like Ali Hazelwood's writing which made it easier to love the novel. The romance was a really well-paced enemies to lovers and the setting was very interesting as well. There were only two things that prevented me from giving 5 stars: the beginning, that was very annoying and the way Elsie deals with something in the end.