The Love Hypothesis

The Love Hypothesis: A Fake Relationship, A Real Connection

Calling all fake dating romance aficionados! If you’re on the hunt for a heartwarming romance with a sprinkle of science, snappy dialogue, and a whole lot of charm, then let me introduce you to “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood. This book has quickly become one of my favorites, and trust me, it’s the perfect pick for your next cozy reading session. I mean, who doesn’t love a good fake dating trope, right? I also got the best quote from this book –

You can fall in love: someone will catch you.

A Kiss That Changes Everything

So, here is the gist: Olive Smith was a rising third-year Ph.D. student at one of the best biology departments in the country, engrossed in her research and with little desire for romance. However, life has a bizarre way of throwing curveballs. When Olive’s best friend needs convincing that Olive’s over her ex, she kisses the first guy she sees in the hallway.

Enter Dr. Adam Carlsen (Yeah, the first guy in the hallway) – was a known ass. Dr. Carlsen might have been a young academic rock star and biology’s wunderkind, but he was also mean and hypercritical. He was a notoriously moody, obnoxious, terrifying dick (Olive’s words not mine). We will say – a handsome, brooding professor who fell in love with a crying girl (not literally crying, but whatever) he met two years ago in his lab’s bathroom.

Now, Adam and Olive don’t exactly hit it off at first. In fact, their fake-dating arrangements starts off as a bit of a disaster. (Well, Olive had misunderstood a snort for consent, she had basically attacked him in the hallway, hadn’t she? What more of a disaster could it be? But a good kiss will do that: make a girl forget herself for a while.) But as they spend more time together, their relationship starts to shift from “we’re just pretending” to “wait, are we actually falling for each other?”

A Match Made in…Science?

Olive was twenty-three and alone in the world. She didn’t want weekends, or a decent salary. She wanted to go back in time. She wanted to be less lonely. But since that was impossible, she’d settle for fixing what she could. She’s passionate about her research but struggles with self-doubt and the pressures of being a woman in STEM. Her journey through the book is both relatable and inspiring, making her a character you’ll definitely cheer for.

Then there is Adam Carlsen. He might come off as a grump, but as you get to know him, you’ll realize there’s a lot more to him than meets the eye. His tough appearance conceals a heart of gold, and seeing him warm up to Olive is one of the book’s delights. And discovering that he liked Olive all along after their chance meeting two years ago. The banter between Olive and Adam is chef’s kiss.

Opposites Attract

One of the things I absolutely loved about this book is Hazelwood’s sharp, witty writing as there is a sharp contrast between their personalities, making the dialogues more hilarious. And the situations Olive and Adam find themselves in are both charming and cringe-worthy in the best possible way. It’s the kind of book where you find yourself laughing out loud one minute and swooning the next.

(What would you do if your best friend told you to sit on your “supposed” boyfriend’s lap in the conference room as there aren’t any seats left? Charming situation, right? However, as it turned out, Adam’s lap was one of the most comfortable places on earth, according to Olive. And he didn’t mind having Olive half draped over him.)

A Slow Burn to Remember

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its slow-burn romance. The gradual development of feelings between Olive and Adam is both believable and satisfying. The tension and anticipation build steadily, making the eventual payoff all the more rewarding.

The romance is perfectly paced, with plenty of sweet moments and a few tear-jerking scenes that will get you right in the feels. And let’s not forget the whole academic setting, which adds an extra layer of fun and authenticity. If you’ve ever been a student or worked in a research environment, you’ll totally appreciate the little nods and inside jokes.

Why You’ll Love It

If you’re a fan of fake-dating tropes, quirky characters, and romance that feels real and earned, then “The Love Hypothesis” should definitely be on your reading list. It’s a story about finding love where you least expect it, embracing who you are, and learning to take a chance on happiness.

Plus, who doesn’t love a good book that can make you laugh, cry, and feel all the warm fuzzies? Hazelwood’s novel does all of that and more. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to recommend to your friends and definitely one you’ll find yourself thinking about long after you turn the last page.

Here are some more fake dating tropes – The American Roommate Experiment, Twisted lies.

Wrap-Up

So, if you haven’t read “The Love Hypothesis” yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy, get comfy, and let Olive and Adam’s story sweep you off your feet. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Have you read The Love Hypothesis? What were your thoughts on Olive and Adam’s relationship? Share your favorite moments from the book in the comments below! Or on my Pinterest Board!