Alizée
Read first in 2021 and launch me back into reading romances – 4 stars
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Re-read 2026
I picked up The Love Hypothesis again ahead of the movie release, and honestly? It still hits the same. It's such a quick, engaging read—one of those books you fall into without even noticing the pages turning.
Olive and Adam remain an incredibly endearing couple. Olive is definitely an overthinker (and at times, a chaotic one), but there's something so admirable about her resilience. Kissing a stranger to convince your best friend you've moved on? Couldn't be me—but it sets the tone perfectly for who she is: impulsive, bold, and trying her best. Beneath that, though, there's a quieter strength in how she navigates grief and pushes forward in such a demanding academic environment.
One of the things I appreciated most, especially on this reread, is the portrayal of academia—particularly within STEM. The book doesn't shy away from showing how difficult and competitive it can be, especially for women. It's not just about long hours in the lab; it's about power dynamics, mentorship, and the constant pressure to prove yourself.
Adam is such an interesting character in that regard. Yes, he contributes to that intense environment, but his motivations come from a place of wanting fairness and integrity in science. He's strict, a bit intimidating, and not the easiest person to approach—but he's consistent, principled, and ultimately just. I really appreciated his perspective on what academia should be, especially when it comes to mentorship.
As for the romance—it's just as soft and satisfying as I remembered. I had completely forgotten how obvious Adam's feelings are, and how completely oblivious Olive remains. Watching that dynamic unfold again was both frustrating and adorable in the best way. And when certain plot elements (
Read first in 2021 and launch me back into reading romances – 4 stars
____
Re-read 2026
I picked up The Love Hypothesis again ahead of the movie release, and honestly? It still hits the same. It's such a quick, engaging read—one of those books you fall into without even noticing the pages turning.
Olive and Adam remain an incredibly endearing couple. Olive is definitely an overthinker (and at times, a chaotic one), but there's something so admirable about her resilience. Kissing a stranger to convince your best friend you've moved on? Couldn't be me—but it sets the tone perfectly for who she is: impulsive, bold, and trying her best. Beneath that, though, there's a quieter strength in how she navigates grief and pushes forward in such a demanding academic environment.
One of the things I appreciated most, especially on this reread, is the portrayal of academia—particularly within STEM. The book doesn't shy away from showing how difficult and competitive it can be, especially for women. It's not just about long hours in the lab; it's about power dynamics, mentorship, and the constant pressure to prove yourself.
Adam is such an interesting character in that regard. Yes, he contributes to that intense environment, but his motivations come from a place of wanting fairness and integrity in science. He's strict, a bit intimidating, and not the easiest person to approach—but he's consistent, principled, and ultimately just. I really appreciated his perspective on what academia should be, especially when it comes to mentorship.
As for the romance—it's just as soft and satisfying as I remembered. I had completely forgotten how obvious Adam's feelings are, and how completely oblivious Olive remains. Watching that dynamic unfold again was both frustrating and adorable in the best way. And when certain plot elements (