Ali Hazelwood, the queen of mixing romance with STEM-filled adventures, has done it again with her latest novel, Not in Love. With clever humor, deeply emotional moments, and a heroine you’ll cheer for every step of the way, this book is an absolute gem for anyone who loves contemporary romance.
Plot Overview
Not in Love follows Rue Seibert, a biotech engineer who’s trying to juggle her big career dreams and the tricky world of relationships. When she meets Eli Kilgore, sparks fly—but not the good kind at first. What begins as a clash of personalities slowly transforms into a heart-melting slow-burn romance, full of laugh-out-loud moments and tender scenes.
What makes Hazelwood’s books so special, though, is how she weaves deeper themes into her stories. In Not in Love, she explores self-discovery, resilience, and the balancing act between career goals and personal relationships. It’s this mix of humor, heart, and relatable challenges that keeps me coming back for more of her work.
What I Loved About Not in Love
- Smart, Witty Dialogue: Hazelwood’s trademark humor shines in every conversation, making the characters’ interactions feel effortless and real. The banter is full of energy and adds a fun, playful vibe to the story.
- Strong, Relatable Female Lead: The heroine is the kind of character you can’t help but root for—she’s smart, ambitious, and tackling life like a pro (even when it feels like she’s barely holding it together). Her journey of figuring out who she is and what she wants hits close to home in the best way, making her story equal parts inspiring and relatable.
- Emotional Depth: Sure, the romance is swoon-worthy, but this book goes deeper. Hazelwood takes on themes like vulnerability, personal growth, and the impossible balancing act of love and a career. And she does it all with so much heart, you’ll feel like she’s been secretly eavesdropping on your life. It’s raw, real, and totally hits you right in the feels.
Why You Should Read It
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Ali Hazelwood or new to her work, Not in Love offers the perfect mix of humor, romance, and thought-provoking themes. The book provides an engaging escape while also touching on real-life struggles that many readers can relate to.
Final Thoughts
Not in Love is a beautifully written, heartfelt romance that strikes the perfect balance between lighthearted fun and emotional depth. With lovable characters, a compelling plot, and Hazelwood’s signature charm, this book is a delightful addition to any romance reader’s collection.
Have you read Not in Love yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!