Grumpy Sunshine

The Love Hypothesis // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
As a reluctant Ph.D. candidate, Olive Smith’s skepticism about love is challenged when she pretends to date Adam Carlsen, a notorious professor, to satisfy her best friend’s expectations. Despite Adam’s reputation, he unexpectedly supports Olive during a chaotic science conference, sparking an unexpected attraction. As their fake relationship blurs into something real, Olive navigates the complexities of love and her academic career, discovering that both require more than just scientific proof.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3Wf0fe9

My Rating

I was very unsure about this book before picking it up. All I knew was that there was a lot of hype surrounding it and that it was a STEM-based romance. Although I love reading adult romance books, I had never read a book with a STEM aspect. However, after giving it a chance and getting through the first ten chapters, I found myself truly enjoying the book. Therefore, if you are struggling with the book, try to give it until at least the halfway point.

The plot follows Olive, a Ph.D. candidate who initiates a fake dating relationship with Adam Carlsen, a well-known young professor. The book includes the fake dating trope and a grumpy-sunshine romance. Although everything happens a bit too quickly at first—Olive literally jumps Adam in the first chapter—I am glad that the story slowed down as it continued.

Olive’s character was likable, and it was understandable that she had a difficult time letting people in. However, I am not a fan of characters who cannot see what is right in front of them. Adam was an amazing love interest, but I might just have a thing for no-nonsense male characters. The chemistry between the two characters is evident, and there is just the right amount of witty banter between them.

“That’s the thing with science. We’re drilled to believe that false positives are bad, but false negatives are just as terrifying.”

As for spiciness, I would not say that it is all too steamy. However, it is not a closed-door romance. I would give it a spicy rating of 2.5 out of 5. The one sexy scene the author gave us is perfect for someone who wants a predominantly clean romance with a touch of spice. In my opinion, it is nothing that will make you blush, but it is a descriptive scene.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was the focus on how women in STEM are treated. The author did a great job showcasing how they are not taken seriously in the field. Sadly, this is true in reality, as it is mainly a male-dominated career path. Thus, the book shows that we need more women in the STEM world. I enjoyed this deeper element of the plot.

Overall, the writing style was fantastic, and the plot was enjoyable. If you don’t mind the miscommunication third-act break plot device when it’s done well, then this is the book for you. It was a fun read and serves as a great palate cleanser between heavier books. I look forward to reading more from this author and agree that this book is worth the hype.

In the comments, let me know if you have read this book or anything else by the author. Don’t forget to like and share this post with other book lovers. If you are a fan of book reviews, hit the follow button so you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

How To Plot A Payback | Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
Finn Masters, a screenwriter, lands his dream job working on the sitcom Neighbors, but there’s a catch: he’ll be working alongside Lavender Rhodes, the show’s beloved star who inadvertently ruined his acting career and relationship. Determined to exact payback, Finn plots to sabotage Lavender’s character, but when all his plans backfire spectacularly, he starts to reconsider his feelings towards the women he’s blamed for all his misfortunes.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4d8QLHI

My Rating

The book is a fast-paced romcom that delivers on its promises. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood, it combines grumpy sunshine dynamics with the beloved enemies-to-lovers trope. Ferguson crafts a fun and engaging story that revolves around a writer and actress, bringing a touch of glamour to the narrative.

This is a dual narrative story, so we get the perspectives of both Finn and Lavender. It was interesting to view Lavender from Finn’s eyes knowing that he has held her accountable for most of his hardships in life. Especially since, in Lavender’s chapters we get to see her real personality shine through. The book is the perfect example of how people aren’t always who you think they are.

The strength of the book truly lies with Finn and Lavender, who drive the story forward with their chemistry and personal growth. Despite the lack of many side characters, the protagonists shine brightly, making the reader invested in their journey. Ferguson’s writing is fantastic, seamlessly weaving together humor, romance, and character development.

“You deserve someone who just wants to see you happy.”

Throughout the book, the connection between the main characters is palpable, and their evolving relationship keeps the reader hooked until the end. The miscommunication trope, often overused and usually irritating, is executed masterfully. The trope is used with such maturity that if more books handled it this way it wouldn’t be one of the most infuriating plot devices.

Overall, I believe that fans of Ali Hazelwood’s works will find much to enjoy in not only the storyline, but also the author’s writing style and storytelling. This is simply a delightful read from start to finish. However, this is a closed-door romance and if memory serves me, the book doesn’t go beyond kissing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and eagerly anticipate reading more from the author.

In the comments, please let me know if you have read the book. Also, I would like to thank Netgalley for letting me receive an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review. Don’t forget to like and share this post with other readers. If you are a fan of book reviews, hit the follow button, so that you will never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny