which the love hypothesis character are you

The Love Hypothesis Summary & Review – Where Heart and Science Unite

Author: Ali Hazelwood
Originally published: September 14, 2021
Page Count: 383 pages, Paperback
Genres: Romance , Contemporary , Fiction

which the love hypothesis character are you

In the enchanting world of romance literature, where love stories flourish like wildflowers in spring, one novel has taken the genre by storm – “The Love Hypothesis” by the talented wordsmith, Ali Hazelwood. With hearts aflutter and pages turned eagerly, readers have been swept away by this delightful tale of love, science, and a charmingly flawed heroine. As the buzz around this book continues to crescendo, we embark on our own journey through its pages, armed with a commitment to honesty and fairness. This review aims to provide a comprehensive yet unvarnished analysis of “The Love Hypothesis,” a book that has captured the hearts of many and left us pondering both its triumphs and its trifles. Join us as we delve into the world of this captivating romance, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between.

Table of Contents

The Love Hypothesis Summary

In the bustling world of academia, Olive Smith, a dedicated PhD candidate with a penchant for equations rather than emotions, finds herself at the center of an unexpected experiment – one involving love. “The Love Hypothesis,” penned by Ali Hazelwood, introduces us to Olive, a brilliant physicist focused on her career, until her path crosses with the notorious and charismatic Professor Adam Carlsen. Sparks fly, but not of the romantic kind, as Olive and Adam engage in a unique “relationship” born out of a scientific hypothesis.

As the story unfolds, we witness Olive’s journey from skepticism to curiosity and eventually, to an unexpected entanglement of the heart. With her pragmatic approach to life and love, Olive provides a refreshing perspective on the trials and tribulations of modern romance. And Adam, a character with secrets of his own, adds layers of complexity to their evolving connection.

What sets this story in motion is the intriguing premise of testing the hypothesis that a fake relationship can scientifically lead to real love. The book navigates the unpredictable waters of romance with humor, intelligence, and a touch of vulnerability. Yet, will this love experiment yield the expected results, or will it defy the very laws of nature it seeks to explore? Without giving away any of the story’s twists and turns, we invite you to embark on this journey with us as we delve deeper into “The Love Hypothesis” to uncover its charms and complexities.

Writing Style and Narrative

Ali Hazelwood’s writing style in “The Love Hypothesis” is a masterful symphony that weaves emotions and intellect together, creating a tapestry that draws readers into the hearts and minds of her characters. With a deft hand, Hazelwood employs vivid imagery that brings the academic setting to life, making lecture halls and research labs feel like tangible spaces where emotions flourish.

Dialogue, a vital tool in romance storytelling, is where Hazelwood truly shines. The banter between characters is both sharp and heartwarming, revealing hidden layers of wit and vulnerability. The interactions between Olive and Adam are particularly noteworthy, ranging from playful sparring to moments of unexpected tenderness. Each exchange feels authentic, adding depth to their connection and making their journey all the more captivating.

Hazelwood employs a distinctive narrative technique by alternating between Olive and Adam’s perspectives, granting readers insight into their individual struggles, desires, and hesitations. This approach enhances the reading experience by allowing us to witness the gradual transformation of their relationship from multiple angles. The intimate glimpses into their thoughts foster empathy, making us root for their happiness while acknowledging their flaws.

While the writing style skillfully captures emotions and relationships, some readers might find the occasional scientific jargon a hurdle. Although these elements contribute to the story’s authenticity, they can momentarily disrupt the flow for those less familiar with technical language. Despite this, the overall writing style enriches the narrative by immersing us in a world where romance and science coexist.

Ali Hazelwood’s writing not only paints a picture of the characters’ internal struggles but also transports readers to the emotional landscapes they traverse. Through eloquent prose and engaging dialogue, the writing style becomes an instrument of connection, drawing us into the story’s heart and encouraging us to invest in its outcome.

Character Development

In “The Love Hypothesis,” Ali Hazelwood’s characters are not just ink on paper; they are living, breathing souls with depth and complexity that gradually unfurl as the story unfolds. Olive Smith and Adam Carlsen, the protagonists of this romantic tale, embark on journeys of self-discovery and personal evolution that resonate with readers.

Olive, a brilliant scientist consumed by logic and equations, is a character of multifaceted layers. Her pragmatism, while admirable, also becomes a shield against vulnerability. As the narrative progresses, we witness her struggle to reconcile her rational approach with the unpredictable world of emotions. Her transformation is marked by moments of introspection, hesitation, and ultimately, courage. However, some readers might find certain aspects of Olive’s growth abrupt, with shifts in her mindset occurring relatively quickly.

Adam Carlsen, on the other hand, is introduced as the charismatic, enigmatic professor. His enigmatic facade gives way to reveal a man burdened by his past and striving for redemption. As his connection with Olive deepens, we witness his own journey towards healing and forgiveness. This growth is intricately woven into his interactions with Olive and his responses to challenges that arise.

While both characters display captivating development, there are instances where their actions and decisions might leave readers yearning for more context. Certain reactions or choices appear slightly disconnected from their established traits, introducing moments of inconsistency in their portrayal.

Despite these occasional inconsistencies, the characters’ evolution is a testament to Hazelwood’s ability to craft relatable human experiences. Their emotional authenticity draws readers in, allowing us to empathize with their struggles and celebrate their victories. The imperfections in their development, while noticeable, do not overshadow the overall impact of their growth, making Olive and Adam protagonists worthy of our investment.

Through intricate character development, “The Love Hypothesis” reminds us that growth is a nonlinear journey, fraught with uncertainty and complexity. The imperfections in their development, much like the flaws within us all, only serve to enhance the richness of the story.

Themes and Messages

Within the pages of “The Love Hypothesis,” Ali Hazelwood deftly weaves a tapestry of themes that resonate deeply with readers. Beyond the surface of romance, the story delves into layers of ambition, personal growth, and the complex interplay between logic and matters of the heart.

Love, of course, takes center stage as the book’s primary theme. The exploration of love as a force that defies scientific quantification provides an intriguing backdrop. The book navigates the different facets of love – from the unanticipated blossoming of emotions to the vulnerability that accompanies it. The story captures the raw essence of love’s unpredictability and challenges us to embrace its uncertainties.

Ambition, embodied by Olive’s dedication to her academic pursuits, is another theme interwoven with the narrative. The juxtaposition of Olive’s scientific precision with the enigmatic nature of love reflects the tension between the rational and the emotional. This theme prompts readers to reflect on the balance between pursuing one’s passions and opening oneself to emotional connections.

Personal growth emerges as a thread that binds the characters’ arcs. As Olive and Adam navigate their feelings and pasts, they undergo transformations that mirror the complexity of real-life evolution. The narrative effectively portrays the struggles and breakthroughs they experience, albeit with occasional instances of pacing that may affect the impact of their growth.

The themes come alive through Hazelwood’s skillful prose, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. Yet, there are moments when the messages might appear slightly overt, leaving little room for interpretation. This directness, while occasionally detracting from subtlety, ensures that readers grasp the intended takeaway.

Ultimately, “The Love Hypothesis” imparts messages of embracing vulnerability, embracing change, and recognizing that love often transcends the bounds of reason. The themes encourage readers to consider the interplay between intellect and emotion, and the value of taking risks in matters of the heart. As we immerse ourselves in these thematic currents, we’re reminded that love and growth are beautifully intertwined, creating a melody that resonates with the human experience.

Criticism & Room for Improvement

While “The Love Hypothesis” undeniably charms its readers, it’s essential to recognize that no book is without its imperfections. Let’s take a closer look at some aspects that may have left certain readers wanting more.

Firstly, pacing is an element that occasionally presents challenges in the story’s flow. While the narrative is generally engaging, there are moments when the pace feels uneven. The transitions between scenes and character developments can, at times, occur abruptly, which may disrupt the overall reading experience.

Additionally, the book’s reliance on scientific jargon might be a double-edged sword. While it adds authenticity to the academic backdrop, it could pose a hurdle for readers less familiar with such terminology. Striking a balance between maintaining realism and accessibility is a delicate task, and some may feel that the book leans a tad too heavily towards the former.

Character choices and reactions, while authentic in many instances, may also leave room for critique. Some readers have noted moments when character decisions appeared inconsistent with their established personalities, causing a slight disconnect between actions and motivations.

Critics have occasionally observed that the story’s central romance, while undoubtedly sweet, leans towards familiar tropes within the genre. While this familiarity can be comforting, it might leave readers craving a more unique twist or exploration of unconventional dynamics.

However, it’s important to remember that these critiques don’t overshadow the book’s merits. “The Love Hypothesis” has earned its accolades for a reason. Its ability to blend humor, intelligence, and vulnerability remains a commendable feat, and the characters’ authenticity shines through despite occasional inconsistencies.

In summary, the book’s pacing, use of scientific terminology, character choices, and reliance on familiar tropes are aspects that may have garnered criticism. These observations, however, are part of the broader conversation surrounding the book’s reception and don’t diminish its overall appeal. The beauty of literature lies in its subjectivity, and what one reader views as a critique, another may see as an endearing quirk.

In the delightful world of “The Love Hypothesis,” Ali Hazelwood has crafted a tale that marries science and emotion, intellect and heart. The book’s strengths lie in its vivid characters, sharp dialogue, and the intricate dance between logic and love. While pacing and minor inconsistencies exist, they don’t overshadow the book’s unique charm.

Embrace the journey of Olive and Adam, two souls navigating the uncharted territories of academia and matters of the heart. As you turn each page, you’ll be drawn into their captivating story, replete with moments of humor, vulnerability, and growth. “The Love Hypothesis” invites you to ponder the mysteries of love, personal evolution, and the sparks that ignite when reason meets emotion.

While opinions on books are as varied as the colors of a sunset, the invitation remains: Discover for yourself the magic woven within these pages. The world of “The Love Hypothesis” beckons with its own hypothesis – that beneath every critique lies a story waiting to be felt, a connection waiting to be made. Venture forth and experience the unique symphony of romance and science that Hazelwood has masterfully composed.

About the Author

Ali Hazelwood, the creative force behind “The Love Hypothesis,” is a captivating storyteller known for her knack for blending romance and wit. With a background in engineering, Ali’s unique perspective infuses her writing with a touch of intellectual charm. She masterfully weaves relatable characters, heartfelt emotions, and scientific curiosity into her stories, making them both engaging and thought-provoking. Ali’s passion for exploring the intersection of logic and love shines through in her work, captivating readers with her ability to meld intricate plotlines with genuine emotion. As a rising star in the romance genre, Ali Hazelwood continues to enchant readers with her distinctive voice and her uncanny ability to spark both laughter and introspection.

“As we conclude this journey through “The Love Hypothesis,” we extend an open invitation to you, our cherished readers. Your thoughts and perspectives matter, and we’d love to hear your take on the book. Have you found resonance in its themes? Do you share our observations, or do you see the story from a different angle? Feel free to leave your comments below; this space is a platform for your voice.

Moreover, sharing is caring, and if “The Love Hypothesis” has touched your heartstrings or ignited your curiosity, don’t hesitate to share this review with fellow book enthusiasts. Whether it’s through your favorite social media channels, book clubs, or discussions with friends, your sharing can introduce others to a world of captivating emotions and intellectual intrigue.

As we celebrate the power of storytelling, we look forward to the vibrant conversations that will undoubtedly unfold. Your insights enrich not only our understanding of the book but also the collective experience of literature. So, let’s embark on a journey of words and feelings together, as we explore the pages of “The Love Hypothesis” and the myriad thoughts it sparks. ” – Your Book Corner

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The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood | Book Review

Posted August 12, 2021 by Jana in Adult Fiction , Book Review / 4 Comments

When a fake relationship between scientists meets the irresistible force of attraction, it throws one woman's carefully calculated theories on love into chaos. As a third-year Ph.D. candidate, Olive Smith doesn't believe in lasting romantic relationships--but her best friend does, and that's what got her into this situation. Convincing Anh that Olive is dating and well on her way to a happily ever after was always going to take more than hand-wavy Jedi mind tricks: Scientists require proof. So, like any self-respecting biologist, Olive panics and kisses the first man she sees. That man is none other than Adam Carlsen, a young hotshot professor--and well-known ass. Which is why Olive is positively floored when Stanford's reigning lab tyrant agrees to keep her charade a secret and be her fake boyfriend. But when a big science conference goes haywire, putting Olive's career on the Bunsen burner, Adam surprises her again with his unyielding support and even more unyielding...six-pack abs. Suddenly their little experiment feels dangerously close to combustion. And Olive discovers that the only thing more complicated than a hypothesis on love is putting her own heart under the microscope.

So. I’m really not the best at reviewing books I absolutely loved because I don’t have many words! We all know I love fake dating romances, and I loved the idea of a STEM romance because science is cool and I really love and miss Big Bang Theory (and no, this isn’t like that per se, it’s just got super smart people spouting off science facts). Anyway, I immediately gravitated toward The Love Hypothesis because it sounded fresh and funny and unique. It was all those things and more! As always, my main points are bolded.

1. This book is so, so nerdy and I loved it. The people are a little awkward and extremely smart. There’s strong women in science, and I loved learning a little bit about the challenges women face in this field. Every chapter starts off with one of Olive’s hilarious little scientific hypotheses about love and life, each one teasing a bit about what’s coming up in that chapter. These made it very hard to stop reading because I’d get to the end of the chapter and decide to read and then BOOM. I’m intrigued again and must continue reading. Very clever. A lot of the book takes place on campus in the labs, and I thought it was such a fun setting with people working late and running experiments because science doesn’t wait for people to sleep or eat. There’s lots of science talk, there’s a science convention and people get all excited about presenting posters and attending talks and it’s all just so much fun. It reminded me a bit of Ross’s paleontology convention from Friends, just no Barbados.

2. Olive is sweet and strong. She’s smart and strong and totally dedicated to her cancer research. She’s looking for a lab that will accept her the following year so she can continue her testing with better equipment and proper funding. It matters more to her than pretty much anything. Everyone she’s ever loved has died, so she’s very reluctant to get too close to anyone except her two best friends. Relationships are scary and also a little confusing for her. It takes her a while to sort through her feelings and figure things out, and I loved watching her grow and evolve.

3. Dr. Carlsen (Adam) is a dreamboat. He’s seen as rude and lacking in compassion. He’s hard on his grad students, but it’s because he wants them to succeed. He’s super sexy and thoughtful and protective of those he cares about. He’s sarcastic, flirty, suave, and all the things I love in a hero. Olive is a little inexperienced in the love department, and there’s a scene where he puts all of his focus on taking care of her. Consent and comfort are so important to him, and the entire scene was him making sure she was ok. It just melted me, and I’ve never read another scene quite like this one.

4. The chemistry between Olive and Adam is insane. These two can throw the banter back and forth forever and get me laughing, but they can also build up a level of tension that makes you squirmy. There’s an age gap of about 8-9 years between these two, so Olive loves to make fun of him for being old. She also loves to make fun of his healthy eating habits. He likes to tease her about her love of sugar and poor taste in food. But then there’s a scene where Olive’s best friend kind of forces her to kiss Adam after he’s just pushed a car out of the road and is all sweaty, and wow. And then there’s a scene at the department picnic where Olive has no choice but to coat his muscley back in sunscreen (poor girl), and wow. Their relationship is sweet and spicy and tender, and I just love them.

5. Olive’s best friends, Anh and Malcolm, made me so happy. They are both scientists and work together, although their research is all different. Anh is the loyal best friend, who also mothers Olive and makes sure she doesn’t get skin cancer. Malcolm is Olive’s roommate, and he’s pretty much made of rainbows and sunshine. They love to discuss hot men and other fun things. I would love to be a part of this friend group. Adam’s friend, Holden, is another favorite character of mine. He gives great advice, really cares about his people, and is so happy all the time.

6. There’s some deeper issues at play that run throughout the story, including the #MeToo movement. All were treated with sensitivity and respect.

7. There’s so, so much humor! I actually laughed out loud at one point, which never happens to me. I’ve been known to smile or silently laugh, but this was an actual audible laugh that startled me.

8. The writing is also spot on, and flowed so nicely that the pages practically turned on their own.

All in all, this is a stunning debut for Ali Hazelwood. Strong women in science, a sexy doctor hero who values and supports those women, hilarious banter, strong friendships, and a very sweet love story all wrapped up into a glittery, sugary package. What’s not to love? I highly recommend The Love Hypothesis, and cannot wait to see what Ali Hazelwood does next!

By Ali Hazelwood

4 responses to “ The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood | Book Review ”

“insane chemistry?” Sounds fun!

Great review. I’ve been waiting for this book and I”m so glad you liked it so much!

I can’t wait to read this one! It’s one of my most anticipated releases and reading your review just bumped it up to multiple spots haha! CANNOT WAIT! Hasini @ Bibliosini recently posted… Can Books Be Effective Horror? // Let’s Talk Bookish

Book was insightful and inspiring, right mix of teasing, drama, and nerdy science. Once picked up, the book just can’t be put down Check out @thehazelwoodfangpage on Insta

'The Love Hypothesis' won Amazon's best romance book of 2021, has a near-perfect rating on Goodreads, and is all over TikTok. Here's why it's such a unique love story.

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" The Love Hypothesis " grabbed the attention of romance readers everywhere in 2021.
It was named Amazon's Best Romance Novel of 2021 and was nominated for a Goodreads Choice Award.
This book checks off all my boxes for a great romance read and is definitely worth the hype.

This year, Amazon named " The Love Hypothesis " by Ali Hazelwood the best romance book of the year. Even though it was only recently published in September 2021, "The Love Hypothesis" has quickly become a fan-favorite, with 88% of Goodreads reviewers giving it four- or five-star-level praise .

It was also nominated for a Goodreads Choice Award and is hugely popular amongst Book of the Month members , with only 1% of readers giving it a "disliked" rating.

"The Love Hypothesis" is about Olive Smith, a third-year Ph.D. candidate studying pancreatic cancer at Stanford. In an attempt to convince one of her best friends that she's moved on from an old crush, she impulsively kisses Dr. Adam Carlsen, the department's notoriously brutal (but undeniably attractive) professor. After the kiss, Adam and Olive agree to fake a relationship so she can prove to her friend that she's happily dating and he can convince their department that he isn't planning to leave anytime soon.

I'm a little picky about my romance novels , so giving this read every bit of a five-star review didn't come lightly. My standards are high because the best romance novels have the potential to expose readers to authentic and imperfect relationships and offer new topics of discussion without making us feel like it's a story we've already read.

With all the hype surrounding this new romance read, I couldn't resist picking it up.

Here's why "The Love Hypothesis" is one of my favorite recent romance books:

1. the story focuses a lot on olive and adam's lives outside their romance, making their love story more believable and interesting..

Romance novels tend to fall into a few popular tropes such as " enemies-to-lovers " or "forbidden love." "The Love Hypothesis" combines two of the most popular tropes right now, "Fake dating" and "grumpy/sunshine," really well — I loved the contrast between Adam's serious attitude to Olive's bright and sugary one.

But despite following these tropes, the story feels fresh because it's also largely about Olive's work and its meaning to her. The only other romance book I've read featuring a STEM heroine is "The Kiss Quotient" , so I loved seeing that representation and learning about something new.

The story honestly reflected the challenges Ph.D. candidates face in academia and that authenticity — deepened by the author's personal experiences — brought the characters, the settings, and the romance to life even more as Olive and Adam faced challenges with funding, time-consuming research, and questioning their sense of purpose.

2. The steamier scenes are also awkward and realistic, which made them even better.

In romance books, there are a few different levels of how graphic a steamy scene can get , from little-to-no detail to explicitly outlined movements. (I personally prefer mine to "fade to black.")

There was only one chapter with adult content, and it was definitely graphic. While I made a ton of ridiculous faces while reading and tried to skim past the parts that made me audibly gasp, I loved that it wasn't a movie-made, perfect sex scene with graceful movements and smooth dialogue. The scene was a little awkward, imperfect, and full of consent and conversation, making it refreshingly real.

3. The book deals with other topics besides the main love story, making it a much deeper read.

While it's wonderful to get swept up in the magic of a romantic storyline, having a secondary plot that addresses real issues is what makes a romance novel truly great .

Mild spoilers and content warnings ahead: While "The Love Hypothesis" is a fun romantic read, it also addresses the pain of familial death, power differentials, intimacy challenges, and, most prevalently, workplace sexual harassment.

Love is beautiful, fun, and amazing, but "The Love Hypothesis" takes the opportunity to also include conversations about serious issues. While these topics may be tough for some readers, I think these plot points, hard conversations, and complicated emotions take "The Love Hypothesis" to the next level and make it a five-star read.

The bottom line

"The Love Hypothesis" has everything I personally look for in a romance novel: A unique storyline, authentic characters, and an important message. If you're looking for a perfectly balanced romance read, "The Love Hypothesis" is worth the hype and definitely one of the best romance books to come out in the past year.

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The Love Hypothesis (Review, Synopsis & Summary)

By ali hazelwood.

Book review and synopsis for The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, a delightful rom-com about a fake relationship between a biology Ph.D. student and a professor.

In The Love Hypothesis , Olive is a third-year biology Ph.D. candidate who shares a kiss with a handsome stranger in order make her friend think that she's in a relationship. She's horrified when she realizes the "stranger" is Dr. Adam Carlson, a prominent professor in her department who is known for being a hypercritical and moody tyrant.

She and Adam each have reasons for needing to be in a relationship, and they agree to pretend to date for the sake of appearances. Of course, as she gets to know Adam, it's only a matter of time before she starts feeling something for him, and it becomes clear that her little experiment in fake-dating just might combust...

(The Full Plot Summary is also available, below)

Full Plot Summary

Three years prior, Olive Smith talks to a guy when she's in the bathroom fixing her contacts (and can't see) after her Ph.D. candidate interview. She tells him about her passion for her research. She doesn't catch his name but remembers the conversation distinctly and wonders about the guy she met.

In present day, Olive is a biology Ph.D. student researching early detection methods for pancreatic cancer. She kisses a guy randomly in order to trick her best friend into thinking she's dating someone (so that her best friend Anh won't feel bad about dating Olive's ex). That guy turns out to be Dr. Adam Carlson , a young, handsome and highly-respected tenured faculty member in her department. He's also known for being hypercritical and moody.

Meanwhile, Adam's department chair is worried that he's planning on leaving for another university and has frozen some of his research funds. So, Adam he agrees to pretend to be in a relationship with Olive in order to give the impression he's putting down "roots" here, in hopes they will unfreeze the funds.

As Olive and Adam fake-date, they get to know each other. Olive sees that Adam is demanding and blunt towards his students, but not unkind or mean. Olive confides in him about her mother getting pancreatic cancer, which is why she's doing her research.

Olive soon realizes that she has feelings for Adam, but she's afraid to tell him. When he overhears her talking about a crush, she pretends it's about someone else. Olive also hears someone else refer to a woman Adam's been pining after for years and is surprised at how jealous she feels.

In the meantime, Olive needs more lab space and has been talking to Dr. Tom Benton for a spot at his lab at Harvard. When Tom arrives in town, it turns out he's friends with Adam. Adam and Tom are friends from grad school, and they have recently gotten a large grant for some joint research that Adam is excited about. After Olive completes a report on her research for Tom, he offers her a spot in his lab for the next year.

Olive and Adam's relationship continues to progress until they attend a science conference in Boston. Olive's research has been selected for a panel presentation, while Adam is a keynote speaker. There, Olive is sexually harassed by Tom, who makes advances on her. When she rejects him, he accuses her of someone who sleeps around to get ahead. He also says that he'll deny it if she tells anyone and that they won't believe her.

While Olive does finally sleep with Adam at the conference, she soon tearfully breaks things off since she doesn't want to complicate things with Adam's joint research project with Tom. Adam is also in the process of applying for a spot at Harvard.

Olive is certain no one will believe her about Tom until she realizes that the accidentally recorded the conversation where he made advances and threatened her. Meanwhile, Olive's roommate Malcolm has started seeing Dr. Holden Rodriguez, a faculty member who is a childhood friend of Adam's. Olive and Malcolm turn to Holden for advice, who encourages them to tell Adam about the recording. He points out that he thinks the main reason that Adam is considering a move to Harvard is because Olive is supposed to be going there.

Olive finds Adam and shows him the video. He is incensed at Tom and reports it to their faculty. When Adam returns from Boston, he reports that Tom has been fired. Meanwhile, Olive has been reaching out to other cancer researchers for spots at other labs, and she's gotten promising responses. Olive tells Adam that she loves him and that she never liked anyone else. Adam admits that he remembered her from the day he met her in the bathroom and that she's the one he's been interested in for years.

Ten months later at the anniversary of their first kiss, Olive and Adam re-create the kiss to mark their anniversary.

For more detail, see the full Chapter-by-Chapter Summary .

If this summary was useful to you, please consider supporting this site by leaving a tip ( $2 , $3 , or $5 ) or joining the Patreon !

Book Review

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood came out a few months ago, and I didn’t really pay much attention to it. However, people seem to really be enjoying this book, and after reading The School for Good Mothers , I was really in mood for something light and fun.

In the Love Hypothesis, Olive is a third-year biology Ph.D. student at Stanford who ends up fake-dating a young and handsome tenured professor in her department. All the usual rom-com shenanigans ensue.

The Love Hypothesis is an unapologetically cheesy rom-com novel — with an upbeat attitude, meet cutes, fake-dating tropes, etc. — but it’s also a genuinely fun and often funny book. It hits a lot of familiar notes if you’re familiar with this genre, but somehow Ali Hazelwood has arranged them in a way that ends up being delightful and entertaining.

The book is super melodramatic at parts, uses so many tropes I couldn’t even list them all here if I was inclined to do so and is predictable in the way that rom-coms are always kind of predictable. That all said, I still had a fantastic time reading it and it flew by.

This is a short review because honestly it’s not that complicated to explain that this book is super cheesy and super fun.

Read it or Skip it?

If you like “chick lit” and rom-coms, you should definitely look into this book. I tend to be a little hypercritical of books in this genre, but I really enjoyed The Love Hypothesis . I found myself smiling and chuckling quite a bit as I read it.

This book is a straight-up cheesy rom-com — it is funny, melodramatic and fun as hell. I thought it was great.

See The Love Hypothesis on Amazon.

The Love Hypothesis Audiobook Review

Narrated by : Callie Dalton Length : 11 hours 8 minutes

I listened to about half of this on audiobook. I think the audiobook is solid. The narrator is easy to listen to and does a good job with it.

Hear a sample of The Love Hypothesis audiobook on Libro.fm.

Book Excerpt

Read the first pages of The Love Hypothesis

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As a third-year Ph.D. candidate, Olive Smith doesn't believe in lasting romantic relationships--but her best friend does, and that's what got her into this situation. Convincing Anh that Olive is dating and well on her way to a happily ever after was always going to take more than hand-wavy Jedi mind tricks: Scientists require proof. So, like any self-respecting biologist, Olive panics and kisses the first man she sees.

That man is none other than Adam Carlsen, a young hotshot professor--and well-known ass. Which is why Olive is positively floored when Stanford's reigning lab tyrant agrees to keep her charade a secret and be her fake boyfriend. But when a big science conference goes haywire, putting Olive's career on the Bunsen burner, Adam surprises her again with his unyielding support and even more unyielding...six-pack abs.

Suddenly their little experiment feels dangerously close to combustion. And Olive discovers that the only thing more complicated than a hypothesis on love is putting her own heart under the microscope.

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Hehehehehehehehehehehehehe thx!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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BOOK REVIEW: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

Synopsis: When a fake relationship between scientists meets the irresistible force of attraction, it throws one woman's carefully calculated theories on love into chaos. As a third-year Ph.D. candidate, Olive Smith doesn't believe in lasting romantic relationships--but her best friend does, and that's what got her into this situation. Convincing Anh that Olive is dating and well on her way to a happily ever after was always going to take more than hand-wavy Jedi mind tricks: Scientists require proof. So, like any self-respecting biologist, Olive panics and kisses the first man she sees. That man is none other than Adam Carlsen, a young hotshot professor--and well-known ass. Which is why Olive is positively floored when Stanford's reigning lab tyrant agrees to keep her charade a secret and be her fake boyfriend. But when a big science conference goes haywire, putting Olive's career on the Bunsen burner, Adam surprises her again with his unyielding support and even more unyielding...six-pack abs. Suddenly their little experiment feels dangerously close to combustion. And Olive discovers that the only thing more complicated than a hypothesis on love is putting her own heart under the microscope.

The Love Hypothesis snuck up on me and captured my heart. It was addicting, sexy, angsty and thoroughly intoxicating! I’m sure a huge fan of the fake dating trope and it not only made this book a ton of fun but it had a lot of emotional power too. With a broody male, a quirky girl and a story filled with science, contemporary romance lovers will fall head over heels in love with this book!

“Have you considered getting a real girlfriend?” His eyebrow lifted. “Have you considered getting a real date?” “Touché.”

The prologue quickly pulled me in. Not only was the meet cute beyond adorable and memorable , but it was laced with emotion too. When we jumped two years and eleven months into the future in chapter one, we found Olive fake kissing some random guy. I was like what is even going on?! But it was because she hoped that her best friend would see her liking someone else and would then start dating her ex, who she never had feelings for. So to prove to her bestie that she had moved on, she kissed the first guy she saw. And it was Adam Carlsen who was a professor at her school and a complete jerk. It led to them fake dating and there’s so much more to the story then this but eeps I loved every minute of it!

“People who date, they—they talk. A lot. More than just greetings in the hallway. They know each other’s favorite colors, and where they were born, and they . . . they hold hands. They kiss.” Adam pressed his lips together as if to suppress a smile. “We could never do that .” A fresh wave of mortification crashed into Olive. “I am sorry about the kiss. I really didn’t think, and—” He shook his head. “It’s fine.”

Olive was a brilliant scientist in grad school, but she was a little unsure of herself at times. It took me a little while to warm up to her, and I wanted to shake her a time or two about her lying. I wanted her to be upfront and honest but as the story unfolded and we learned the whys behind her actions it was impossible not to love her. Her past and present helped mold who she was nowadays and we get to know every part of Olive. So during moments like when she explained why she was so passionate about her research, I got tears in my eyes. I loved her determination and dedication! And when she found her voice and the courage to say and do what she wanted, I was so proud of how far Olive grew from that first page till the last!

Olive laughed, and the way he looked at her, kind and curious and patient . . . she must be hallucinating it. Her head was not right. She should have brought a sun hat.

Adam Carlsen was such an unknown besides his reputation as an arrogant asshole. Yet each time we learned a little something more about Adam, I kept falling harder and harder. Adam knew how to take control and be in charge of a situation. Yes it sometimes made him come across as a complete and total jerk but other times it came across so hot *fans face*. He left me feeling beyond happy, giddy and counting down till his next interaction with Olive! But with Adam, I loved how he commanded attention from others without even trying. I also loved how his humor was so subtle and effortless; each time he made me laugh out loud he snagged another piece of my heart. Adam was caring, strong, beautiful, someone so easy to become obsessed with and the moments he was thoughtful made my heart exploded. I was absolutely obsessed with this broody man who oh so easily got added to my book boyfriend list!

“We are friends, right?” His frown deepened. “Friends?” “Yes. You and I.” He studied for a long moment. Something new passed through his face, stark and a little sad. Too fleeting to interpret. “Yes, Olive.”

Olive and Adam’s moments together created even more speculation and gossip of what was truly happening between them. So it easily led to them fake dating. They both had reasons behind wanting to do that. So each time they were together, I desperately wanted them never to part. I was obsessed with their coffee dates or when they ran into each other. Because even the most simplistic moments between them, like listening to a presentation or a school picnic, made me have butterflies in my stomach. The chemistry between them was through the roof hot. And while I guessed how quite a few things would play out, it never once took away from my love of this story. But one thing I didn’t guess correctly was how unbelievably sexy this book was. Pages upon pages of scenes had me melting into a pile on the floor. Together they were sigh worthy!

He took a deep breath. His shoulders rose and fell in time with the thudding of her heart. “I wish you could see yourself the way I see you.”

The Love Hypothesis was a mixture of steamy and adorable, and landed right on my favorites list! It was impossible not to cry tears or stop the smiles that constantly appeared on my face. Ohhh plus it was so cute that Olive kept thinking of them as a book trope, like the fake boyfriend, possible one bed, her wearing his shirt and he’s speechless. It truly didn’t even matter that I’ve read so many of these tropes countless times, Olive and Adam made it feel unique on every single page. Now I now can’t wait to read whatever else Ali Hazelwood releases!

He tilted his head. “Standard protocol?” “Yup.” “How many times have you done this?” “Zero. But I am familiar with the trope.” “The . . . what?” He blinked at her, confused.

“It was good, wasn’t it?” Olive asked, with a small, wistful smile. She wasn’t herself sure what she was referring to. Maybe his arms around her. Maybe this last kiss. Maybe everything else. The sunscreen, his ridiculous answers on his favorite color, the quiet conversations late at night . . . all of it had been so very good. “It was.” Adam’s voice sounded too deep to be his own. When he pressed his lips against her forehead one last time, she felt her love for him swell fuller than a river in flood.

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'The Love Hypothesis' Author Ali Hazelwood on Getting Her Start in Fanfiction and Which Scene Didn't Make It Into the Final Book

She also teases a few details about her next romance novel.

The day before I was set to chat with Ali Hazelwood , the news broke that her debut novel The Love Hypothesis had officially become a New York Times bestseller , charting at #9 in print and at #11 on the combined print and ebook lists. Understandably, Hazelwood's recollection of the moment she found out about it from her editor at Berkley Publishing is a little hazy: "I think I had grilled cheese in my mouth. I have vague memories of trying not to choke."

But it's no surprise, taking into account that the book itself has been absolutely blowing up a certain section of TikTok lately — as well as considering The Love Hypothesis 's origin story. When Hazelwood decided to make the leap from writing fanfiction to becoming a published author, readers flocked in droves, and even though The Love Hypothesis is a completely original work, there are still some nods to its beginnings — like the cover, for example. In my conversation with Hazelwood, which you can read below, I spoke with her about how both her background in fanfic and in STEM informed the writing of The Love Hypothesis , the one steamy scene in particular that didn't make the final cut, and what she can tease about her next book.

COLLIDER: Congratulations on the book being out! I think some people know the backstory of how it came to be, but for those who don't, what's the genesis behind The Love Hypothesis ?

ALI HAZELWOOD: I think it was a lot of just luck and chances and opportunities. I was really, really into writing fanfiction, first for the Star Trek fandom and then for the Star Wars fandom. And I loved it. It was just, it was this amazing community. I made a lot of friends and I was just having a lot of fun. And then what happened is that I started slowly thinking about trying to write something original, just to challenge myself and to do something different. And while I was in that kind of mood, my agent started reading my fanfiction on AO3 and then she reached out with a DM. She was like, "I saw that you wrote something about maybe pulling some of your fics and reworking them. And I wanted to tell you that I'm a literary agent and I would love to see you some of your manuscripts, if you're interested in it."

And so that's how I took the fanfiction of mine that I thought was the most reworkable and I sent it to her and then I signed with her. And then after approximately 70 billion more revisions, both with her and an editor... we got a lot of RNRs [revise and resubmits] that didn't pan out but made the book better, because we got really good feedback. Then we ended up at Berkely with my current editor, Sarah [Blumenstock], who is amazing, and yeah, now it's out.

I feel like we're definitely seeing more authors who are like, "I totally got my background in fanfiction and there's nothing wrong with that." One of the more famous examples is obviously Christina Lauren.

HAZELWOOD: Christina Lauren. They're amazing.

Or even authors today who are like, "Oh yeah, I'm writing this mainstream book, but I still have an AO3 profile." So I appreciate that we're seeing the barriers break down around what the public perception of fanfiction is and how it really is such a great breeding ground for authors to find their voice.

HAZELWOOD: Absolutely. Fanfiction is just an amazing medium. It's great, like you said, to find your voice, to explore things that you usually don't find in traditional publishing. But it's also just great to feel a sense of community and to get to know people, to find someone who's like-minded and is interested in similar things. It's very hard to make friends as an adult. And I feel like I truly found my adult friends through fanfiction and through the fandom community.

And I just, I'm very grateful to my publisher that they embraced the fanfiction part. They were like, "Yes, we're going to own this. For the cover, we're going to use fanart made for the fanfiction, if you want to." They were just great with that. I do think traditional publishing is getting more and more interested in fanfiction and in embracing it. And maybe they're doing well because of money and marketing and stuff like that, but I'm just really happy that this is happening and that fanfiction is gaining legitimacy, because it always had legitimacy.

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I want to talk a little bit too about the setting of the book, and I know your personal background is in STEM. So did that inform your inspiration on where to set the story, drawing from your own experiences?

HAZELWOOD: Yeah, 100%. I'd been wanting to write fanfiction set in academia just because it's really... I'm a professor right now, but I feel like my entire adult life has been spent in academia. I feel like I would struggle to write any other setting, in a weird way. So it was just the more natural setting for a story. My next book is going to be set in academia and my third book is going to be in academia. And yeah, that's the easiest thing for me.

One of the things I personally love about the book is how it references romance tropes in the world, but then the book itself subverts the tropes. I'm thinking specifically about the only-one-bed scene, and then there's not only one bed, which felt like a really funny wink at romance readers. What made you decide to include that meta-awareness in the story?

HAZELWOOD: It's actually really funny. I never would have thought to include that if the story hadn't been fanfiction originally. I was posting it chapter by chapter and I was writing it chapter by chapter. And I remember all the comments saying, "They're going to go to the conference and there's going to be only one bed."

So it started as just like a conversation with other people in the fandom, who were at the same time writing fanfiction about other iterations of the same characters. It was just so much fun. It was kind of like a collective effort there.

You had talked about how when you were reworking the fic for publication, there were a lot of edits, and I'm assuming a lot of things ended up on the chopping block. Is there a deleted scene that didn't make it into the final novel that you maybe wished you could have kept in?

HAZELWOOD: So when Adam and Olive break up — not really break up, but when she goes to his hotel room and she's like, "It's over." Originally, they ended up having sex in that scene. And we took it out because we thought it was more poignant, or I don't know, more heartfelt if it was only a kiss. And it was, in a way, but the fanfiction person within me kind of misses...

Let them have one more time!

HAZELWOOD: The fanfiction ho within me was like, "I wish we had kept that sex scene." But honestly, honestly, we talked about it — my editor, my agent, and I — and it was a good call from a story-structure perspective.

So you mentioned you've got a second and third book in the works. I'm sure you probably can't really talk about book three yet, but is there anything you can tease about book two coming up?

HAZELWOOD: Book two is about a neuroscientist who is selected to work on a project at NASA. And she's super excited about it, until she gets told that the person she's going to co-lead the project with is an engineer that she used to work with in the past, and they're kind of enemies. Or at least she thinks they're enemies, one of those things. And that's the story of them working together on this project. And it's coming out in August 2022.

I thought it would be fun to wrap up with a couple of rapid-fire questions. Enemies-to-lovers, or friends-to-lovers?

HAZELWOOD: Enemies-to-lovers. Reylo forever.

Secret billionaire or secret baby?

HAZELWOOD: Secret billionaire.

Marriage of convenience or amnesia?

HAZELWOOD: Marriage of convenience.

Coffee or tea?

HAZELWOOD: Tea.

I feel like I know the answer to this last one, but I'm going to ask it anyway. Macfadyen Darcy or Firth Darcy?

HAZELWOOD: Macfadyen. I mean, 2005 forever. Even though I do appreciate Firth. He's a good high-quality Darcy, but it's just not my Darcy.

I feel like everybody has a very strong opinion, based on which one you saw first. That lake scene, I'm sure that's very formative.

HAZELWOOD: 100%.

But for me? He's walking through the field in the morning mist, and that's it. In the long coat.

HAZELWOOD: He says, "I love you" three times. I mean, she has bewitched him body and soul. Come on, come on. The hand flex!

The Love Hypothesis is currently available in print, e-book and audio wherever books are sold .

KEEP READING: Jane Austen Movie Adaptations, Ranked from Worst to Best

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My Book Brief .

Updated on October 17, 2023

The Love Hypothesis Summary: A Comprehensive Synopsis

Find this book on: Amazon | Thrift Books

Book Author(s):

Can love be quantified, tested, and proved through equations, or is it a force that defies scientific logic and transforms our lives in unexpected ways?

━ SYNOPSIS ━ “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood is a best-selling romance novel about Olive, a female scientist trying to find true love. The story follows Olive as she pretends to date her professor, Adam, to convince her best friend, Anh, that her dating life is going well. Olive and Adam put on a facade of being in love to convince everyone around them, but as they spend more time together, they develop real feelings for each other.

With a near-perfect rating on Goodreads and recognition as Amazon’s best romance book of 2021, “The Love Hypothesis” has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. This article will summarize the book’s plot, explore its major themes, and analyze its characters to help readers understand why this novel has become such a hit.

1 The Love Hypothesis: Overview
2 Main Characters
3 Plot Summary
4 Key Themes
5 Critical Analysis
6 Impact and Reception
7 Conclusion

The Love Hypothesis: Overview

“The Love Hypothesis” is a romantic comedy novel by Ali Hazelwood and published in 2021. The book follows the story of Olive Smith, a third-year biology Ph.D. candidate trying to convince her friend that she has moved on from an old crush. In an attempt to do so, she impulsively kisses a stranger, only to find out that he is Dr. Adam Carlsen, a professor in her department known for being hypercritical and moody.

The novel is a humorous and heartwarming story of Olive’s journey to true love, fraught with lies, tears, and awkward moments. It explores the themes of love, friendship, and the struggles of being a woman in a male-dominated field.

“The Love Hypothesis” was an instant New York Times bestseller and a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist. It has received critical acclaim for its engaging characters, unique themes, and masterful writing style. The book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good romantic comedy with a touch of science.

Main Characters

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood follows Olive Smith, a female scientist, as she navigates her journey to finding true love. Along the way, she encounters several other characters who play important roles in her life.

The main character and protagonist of the story is Olive Smith. Olive is a brilliant scientist who struggles with self-image and tends to focus on her flaws rather than her accomplishments. She is driven by the desire to be less lonely, which stems from the loss of her mother ten years ago. Olive is also determined to prove herself in her field and earn the respect of her colleagues.

Another important character in the story is Adam Carlsen, Olive’s professor. Olive and Adam pretend to date each other to convince their friends that Olive’s love life is going well. However, as they spend more time together, they develop real feelings for each other. Adam is a charming and intelligent man dedicated to his work as a professor.

Anh Nguyen is Olive’s best friend and confidante. Anh is a supportive and caring friend who is always there for Olive when she needs her. She encourages Olive to take risks and pursue her dreams, even when they seem impossible.

Other notable characters in the story include Olive’s colleagues at the university, her ex-boyfriend, and her father. Each character plays a role in Olive’s journey to finding true love and discovering her self-worth.

Plot Summary

“The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood follows Olive Smith, a third-year biology Ph.D. candidate who shares a kiss with a handsome stranger at a bar to make her friend think that she’s in a relationship. However, she soon realizes that the stranger is Dr. Adam Carlson, a prominent professor in her department known for being a hypercritical and moody tyrant.

Despite their awkward introduction, Adam and Olive continue to cross paths, and Adam eventually offers her a spot in his lab for the next year. Olive accepts the offer but soon learns that Adam is difficult to work with. He is demanding, critical, and has impossibly high standards.

Olive discovers that there is more to him than meets the eye as she works with Adam. He is kind, caring, and passionate about his work. Olive begins to see Adam in a new light, and they start to develop feelings for each other.

However, their professional roles complicate their relationship, and they must navigate the challenges of academia and their own personal insecurities to make their relationship work.

Throughout the book, Olive also deals with her issues, including her strained relationship with her mother and her struggle to balance her personal life with her academic career.

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood explores several key themes throughout the book. These themes include transitioning from a fake relationship to genuine love, female empowerment, and academic politics.

One of the book’s main themes is transitioning from a fake relationship to genuine love. The story follows Olive and Adam’s initial ruse, which evolves into true feelings. The book explores the complexities of relationships and how they can change over time.

Another important theme in the book is female empowerment. Through Olive’s character, the story reflects the theme of female empowerment as she navigates the male-dominated academic world and stands up for her work. The book highlights women’s challenges in male-dominated fields and the importance of standing up for oneself.

Academic politics is also a key theme in the book. The story delves into the cutthroat world of academia and the politics that come with it. The book highlights the pressure that academics face to publish and their sacrifices to further their careers.

Overall, The Love Hypothesis explores several relevant themes in modern society. The book highlights the complexities of relationships, the challenges women face in male-dominated fields, and the politics of academia.

Critical Analysis

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood is a delightful romantic comedy novel that follows the journey of a female scientist to find true love. The book has received positive reviews from critics and readers alike. In this section, we will provide a critical analysis of the novel.

One of the strengths of the book is its engaging characters. The protagonist, Olive Smith, is a relatable and likable character driven by her passion for science. The male lead, Adam Carlsen, is a charming and intelligent professor who complements Olive’s character well. The supporting characters are also well-developed and add depth to the story.

The plot of the book is well-paced and keeps the reader engaged throughout. The fake relationship between Olive and Adam is a common trope in romantic comedies, but the author adds her unique twist. The scientific experiments and theories that Olive uses to test her hypothesis about love add an interesting layer to the story.

The writing style of the book is also noteworthy. The author has a witty tone that makes the book a joy to read. The dialogue between the characters is well-written and adds to the overall charm of the book.

However, one criticism of the book is that some conflicts and obstacles the characters face feel contrived and predictable. Additionally, some readers may find the scientific jargon and theories overwhelming and difficult to follow.

Overall, The Love Hypothesis is a well-written and entertaining romantic comedy that will delight fans of the genre. The engaging characters, unique plot, and witty writing style make it a standout novel in the genre.

Impact and Reception

“The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood was an instant NY Times bestseller, a BuzzFeed Best Summer Read of 2021, and Goodreads Choice Awards finalist. The book has received positive reviews from readers and critics alike, with many praising its unique blend of romance and humor.

One of the key factors contributing to the book’s success is its relatable characters. Olive, the female protagonist, is a brilliant scientist who struggles with self-doubt and anxiety. In contrast, Adam, the male protagonist, is a charming professor dealing with his demons. Their hilarious and heartwarming interactions make readers root for their romance.

Another aspect of the book that has resonated with readers is its focus on the importance of communication and honesty in relationships. Throughout the story, Olive and Adam must navigate their feelings for each other while dealing with their insecurities and past traumas. By the end of the book, they learn to trust each other and communicate openly, which ultimately strengthens their relationship.

“The Love Hypothesis” has been well-received by readers and critics alike, with many praising its engaging characters, unique themes, and masterful writing style. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good romance novel with a healthy dose of humor and heart.

“The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood is an entertaining romance novel that follows Olive Smith, a PhD candidate in biology, on her journey to find true love. The book is a mix of comedy, tears, and awkward moments that will keep readers entertained from start to finish.

The author’s writing style is masterful and symphonic. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is engaging and well-paced. The book perfectly blends heart and science, making it a must-read for anyone who loves both genres.

Readers will enjoy the witty banter between the characters, the fierce feminism that permeates the book, and the romance that defies the laws of science. The book is an effervescent beaker bubbling with intellectual banter that will satisfy and entertain readers.

“The Love Hypothesis” is a delightful read that will appeal to anyone who loves a good romance novel. The book is a perfect mix of heart and science that will entertain and satisfy readers.

If you liked this book summary, also check out All About Love (by Bell Hooks) Summary and The 5 Love Languages Book Summary

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Awards & Accolades

Our Verdict

IndieBound Bestseller

THE LOVE HYPOTHESIS

by Ali Hazelwood ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 14, 2021

Fresh and upbeat, though not without flaws.

An earnest grad student and a faculty member with a bit of a jerkish reputation concoct a fake dating scheme in this nerdy, STEM-filled contemporary romance.

Olive Smith and professor Adam Carlsen first met in the bathroom of Adam's lab. Olive wore expired contact lenses, reducing her eyes to temporary tears, while Adam just needed to dispose of a solution. It's a memory that only one of them has held onto. Now, nearly three years later, Olive is fully committed to her research in pancreatic cancer at Stanford University's biology department. As a faculty member, Adam's reputation precedes him, since he's made many students cry or drop their programs entirely with his bluntness. When Olive needs her best friend, Anh, to think she's dating someone so Anh will feel more comfortable getting involved with Olive's barely-an-ex, Jeremy, she impulsively kisses Adam, who happens to be standing there when Anh walks by. But rumors start to spread, and the one-time kiss morphs into a fake relationship, especially as Adam sees there's a benefit for him. The university is withholding funds for Adam's research out of fear that he'll leave for a better position elsewhere. If he puts down more roots by getting involved with someone, his research funds could be released at the next budgeting meeting in about a month's time. After setting a few ground rules, Adam and Olive agree that come the end of September, they'll part ways, having gotten what they need from their arrangement. Hazelwood has a keen understanding of romance tropes and puts them to good use—in addition to fake dating, Olive and Adam are an opposites-attract pairing with their sunny and grumpy personalities—but there are a couple of weaknesses in this debut novel. Hazelwood manages to sidestep a lot of the complicated power dynamics of a student-faculty romance by putting Olive and Adam in different departments, but the impetus for their fake relationship has much higher stakes for Adam. Olive does reap the benefits of dating a faculty member, but in the end, she's still the one seemingly punished or taunted by her colleagues; readers may have been hoping for a more subversive twist. For a first novel, there's plenty of shine here, with clear signs that Hazelwood feels completely comfortable with happily-ever-afters.

Pub Date: Sept. 14, 2021

ISBN: 978-0-593-33682-3

Page Count: 384

Publisher: Berkley

Review Posted Online: July 27, 2021

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2021

ROMANCE | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE | GENERAL ROMANCE

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PERSPECTIVES

by Ali Hazelwood ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 6, 2024

Sink your teeth into this delightful paranormal romance with a modern twist.

A vampire and an Alpha werewolf enter into a marriage of convenience in order to ease tensions between their species.

As the only daughter of a prominent Vampyre councilman, Misery Lark has grown accustomed to playing the role that’s demanded of her—and now, her father is ordering her to be part of yet another truce agreement. In an effort to maintain goodwill between the Vampyres and their longtime nemeses the Weres, Misery must wed their Alpha, Lowe Moreland. But it turns out that Misery has her own motivations for agreeing to this political marriage, including finding answers about what happened to her best friend, who went missing after setting up a meeting in Were territory. Isolated from her kind and surrounded on all sides by the enemy after the wedding, Misery refuses to let herself forget about her real mission. It doesn’t matter that Lowe is one of the most confounding and intense people she’s ever met, or that the connection building between them doesn’t feel like one born entirely of convenience. There’s also the possibility that Lowe may already have a Were mate of his own, but in spite of their biological differences, they may turn out to be the missing piece in each other’s lives. While this is Hazelwood’s first paranormal romance, and the book does lean on some hallmark tropes of the genre, the contemporary setting lends itself to the author’s trademark humor and makes the political plot more easily digestible. Misery and Lowe’s slow-burn romance is appealing enough that readers will readily devour every moment between them and hunger to return to them whenever the story diverts from their scenes together.

Pub Date: Feb. 6, 2024

ISBN: 9780593550403

Page Count: 416

Review Posted Online: Oct. 21, 2023

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 2023

ROMANCE | PARANORMAL ROMANCE | GENERAL ROMANCE

New York Times Bestseller

IT ENDS WITH US

by Colleen Hoover ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 2, 2016

Packed with riveting drama and painful truths, this book powerfully illustrates the devastation of abuse—and the strength of...

Hoover’s ( November 9 , 2015, etc.) latest tackles the difficult subject of domestic violence with romantic tenderness and emotional heft.

At first glance, the couple is edgy but cute: Lily Bloom runs a flower shop for people who hate flowers; Ryle Kincaid is a surgeon who says he never wants to get married or have kids. They meet on a rooftop in Boston on the night Ryle loses a patient and Lily attends her abusive father’s funeral. The provocative opening takes a dark turn when Lily receives a warning about Ryle’s intentions from his sister, who becomes Lily’s employee and close friend. Lily swears she’ll never end up in another abusive home, but when Ryle starts to show all the same warning signs that her mother ignored, Lily learns just how hard it is to say goodbye. When Ryle is not in the throes of a jealous rage, his redeeming qualities return, and Lily can justify his behavior: “I think we needed what happened on the stairwell to happen so that I would know his past and we’d be able to work on it together,” she tells herself. Lily marries Ryle hoping the good will outweigh the bad, and the mother-daughter dynamics evolve beautifully as Lily reflects on her childhood with fresh eyes. Diary entries fancifully addressed to TV host Ellen DeGeneres serve as flashbacks to Lily’s teenage years, when she met her first love, Atlas Corrigan, a homeless boy she found squatting in a neighbor’s house. When Atlas turns up in Boston, now a successful chef, he begs Lily to leave Ryle. Despite the better option right in front of her, an unexpected complication forces Lily to cut ties with Atlas, confront Ryle, and try to end the cycle of abuse before it’s too late. The relationships are portrayed with compassion and honesty, and the author’s note at the end that explains Hoover’s personal connection to the subject matter is a must-read.

Pub Date: Aug. 2, 2016

ISBN: 978-1-5011-1036-8

Page Count: 320

Publisher: Atria

Review Posted Online: May 30, 2016

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2016

GENERAL ROMANCE | ROMANCE | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

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by Colleen Hoover

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Beyond the Bookends

A Book Blog for Women and Moms who Love to Read

16 Books Like the Love Hypothesis to Obsess Over

The Love Hypothesis is a phenomenon and has started a STEM romance wave. We created this amazing list of books like The Love Hypothesis so you can overcome that book hangover.

Love the enemies-to-lovers trope? What about workplace romances? We have them all right here!

*This post, Books Like the Love Hypothesis contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you.

Table of Contents

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

Olive Smith is a Ph.D. student who does not believe in her ability to be in love. When her best friend develops a crush on someone she dated briefly, she decides to kiss the first man she sees in order to prove she is over him.

That one kiss happens to be with THE Adam Carlsen, an academic genius. The two decide to fake-date and what starts out as pretend, becomes something more- for Olive. I loved this fake dating, office romance novel and it has a well-earned spot on its list of the best romance novels of all time.

Books like The Love Hypothesis with Characters in STEM

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang

I was not prepared for this book! Reader beware that it is the Rosie Project with a sprinkle of Pretty Woman and a whole lot of 50 Shades.

It is not offensive in the least but, I listened to this one, and let me say that I am very glad that my kids were not in the car. I did not realize that some of the scenes would be graphic.

It is a great romance with a neurodiverse main character named Stella who hires an escort to teach her about relationships and I loved it. This contemporary romance is definitely on its way to classic status and has a well-earned place on our list of books like The Love Hypothesis.

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

You know how this book is going to end even before you start reading it. However, that does not make the journey any less enjoyable. I found it to be cute and endearing.

Don Tillman is autistic and, as he’s the narrator, we get to listen to every unfiltered thought he has in his quest to find a wife. He approaches this in a scientific way and was a perfect pick for books like The Love Hypothesis . Don is also a character who reminded me of another favorite. If you loved this book, you can find more like it on our list of Charming Books Like Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine .

A brush with Love and more march 2022 novel ideas

A Brush With Love by Mazey Eddings

Harper is a dental student who has worked so hard over the past three years to get into the best oral surgery program in the country. She will not let anyone or anything stand in her way. Her determination and grit remind me of Olive and this book needs to be included on a list of Books Like The Love Hypothesis.

When Harper crashes into Dan, a first-year dental student, everything changes. Despite being determined to stay “just friends”, Harper is finding that harder every day.

I enjoyed this pick from our list of romance books. There are detailed descriptions of Harper’s anxiety which at times is completely debilitating. I liked the fact that this book looks at anxiety and depression as a part of these characters without glossing over the realities.

Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert

This was a book that I totally enjoyed. I read reviews that people didn’t like Chloe. They thought she was whiny and annoying. I completely disagree.

I thought that she was funny, quirky, and had more depth than I initially thought. It is a well-written romance with a little more story than I usually find in this genre and for this reason

Find this book in Books like The Love Hypothesis / Books with Colors in the Title

The Love Proof by Madeleine Henry

⁣Is there a formula that can prove love exists? Madeleine Henry does such a great job of mixing love with a drop of science to create this love story that spans decades. ⁣Sophie Jones is a physics prodigy exploring time.

During her first week at Yale she meets Jake Kristopher and the two immediately start a romance. But when the romance starts pulling Sophie from school, their relationship is tested. ⁣

⁣Sophie throws herself into her work to prove what she has always known (I won’t spoil this adorable read but it’s perfect for a list of books similar to The Love Hypothesis ). I wish the book was a little bit longer because I want to know more.

Work Romances Books Like The Love Hypothesis

Book Lovers by Emily Henry

As soon as I saw what this book was about, I knew I wanted to read it. I love Emily Henry books. Nora is a literary agent who is a shark for her clients. Her life is books and will stop and nothing for her job or her little sister, Libby.

When Libby begs Nora to take her to Sunshine Falls, the setting of one of her most famous books, she reluctantly agrees. When they get there, the town does not look anything like the book describes. In addition, her literary nemesis, book editor Charlie Lastra is in Sunshine Falls.

Now, Nora and Charlie find themselves together in a plot twist neither of them could see coming. This amazing romance about books is perfect for our list of Books Like The Love Hypothesis and is a must-read if you loved the book.

The Ex Talk and other book reviews in February 2021 Novel ideas

The Ex-Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon

I picked up The Ex-Talk because I wanted to read a romance by a Jewish author . I loved that this one featured a biracial, interfaith couple.

The concept was cute – two radio show hosts fake a relationship to try to get ratings. Except they are pretending they already dated and broke up… which eventually leads to them dating.

This fake dating book was a cute, easy read. This is an office romance novel that is perfect for books like The Love Hypothesis.

If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane

In this romance, Laurie is completely blind-sided when her partner of 18 years leaves her without warning. When her ex’s new girlfriend becomes pregnant within months of the breakup, Laurie is devastated.

When Laurie gets stuck in an elevator with Jamie (the office ladies’ man), they devise a plan. Laurie can get back at her ex and Jamie can get a promotion by showing he has a respectable girlfriend. But, as time goes by, it is harder to draw the line between fake and real. This is another office romance novel that is perfect for a list of books like The Love Hypothesis.

Weather Girl by Rachel Lynn Solomon

I’m an avid weather lover, so this was one of my most anticipated Winter 2022 new releases!

In this romance novel, weather girl Ari teams up with sports anchor Russ to get their feuding bosses back together Parent-Trap style. This sweet and hilarious office romance novel is perfect for a list of books like The Love Hypothesis as well.

Along the way, they kindle sparks of their own! There are lots of fun weather puns, adorable scenarios for both romantic pairs, and love scenes that aren’t for the faint of heart🔥🔥🔥.

The best part of all is that the book deals with REAL life issues like depression, body image, teen pregnancy, and complex families.

If you love workplace romances, head over to our post 14 Hot Office Romance Books You Need to Read Now for more.

Enemies to lovers books similar to the love hypothesis.

It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

When I learned that Tessa Bailey used Schitt’s Creek’s Alexis as her inspiration for Piper, I knew I had to read this grumpy sunshine romance.

After getting in trouble one-to-many times for her party-girl lifestyle, Piper and her sister are banished back to their late father’s hometown in Washington.

While she’s learning to be responsible and money-conscious for the first time in her life, she needs to try not to fall for a local fisherman, Brendan. This is a sailing novel with heat!

Find this book in Enemies-to-Lovers Books / Books similar to The Love Hypothesis / Emily Henry books .

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

We don’t think about royals and the LGBTQ community because we don’t usually see openly gay royals, which is so sad in today’s society. And to think it all starts with a NYE kiss!

This charming book is a fabulous pick from LGBTQ romance novels. I crushed hard for their romance and found myself smiling the entire time. (Also love the nod to a female president…where do I sign up for one of those?)

Why We Love It: The LGBTQ romance is charming but add in a female president and we are all in. Find This Book in Royal Romance Books / Enemies-to-Lovers Books / New Year’s Books / British Romance Novels / Books With a Color in the Title

Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunmore

Evie Dunmore’s debut novel spanned a series of badass women during the Suffragette era. While the story is a romance, don’t let that fool you! You’ll get a history lesson on the suffrage movement in English History as well as a lesson on Estate and Inheritance laws — which were still of utmost importance a few decades later when Downton Abbey takes place.

Annabelle Archer has the scholarship to be one of the first women to study at Oxford. In order to keep it, she must spy on the Duke of Montgomery and try to persuade him to the suffragette’s cause. The chemistry between these two crackled off the page in this romance. If enemies-to-lovers books are up your alley, this book is perfect for you and it is perfect for a list of books like The Love hypothesis.

Pride, Prejudice and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev

This book was my choice for a classic adaptation and I loved this contemporary fiction book it. Food and romance are at the center of this book and I thought that it was done so well.

It has all the classic conflicts of Pride and Prejudice with a fresh new spin that made the book so relatable and easy to read. The conflicts make it perfect for books like The Love Hypothesis.

If you love Enemies-to-lovers books , we have an entire post!

Fake dating books like the love hypothesis.

The Wedding Date (The Wedding Date #1) by Jasmine Guillory

This was such a fun read- it was perfect to take with me for a weekend away. When Alexa gets stuck in an elevator with Drew, she makes the crazy choice to accompany him as a fake wedding date to a wedding the next day. If you love fake dating books, this is one of the books like The Love Hypothesis you must read.

What she didn’t account for was the fact that there might be some real attraction between them. She is a good girl and he is a commitment-phoebe. Can they make it work? We think you’ll love this wedding book.

The Dating Dare by Jayci Lee

For the last two years, I have been emotionally dependent on romance books to take me away from the reality of the pandemic. Every time I think that things are looking up, I am thrown for a loop.

Tara does not do relationships because one heartbreak is enough. But, when she meets her best-friends new brother-in-law, sparks fly between them.

Suddenly, Tara finds herself in a dare to date the gorgeous and tempting Seth Kim without falling in love. This book was everything that I hoped it would be and is perfect if you loved the love hypothesis book.

More Books Like the Love Hypothesis

Lessons in Chemistry and more goodreads choice awards 2022 books

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

April 2022 gma book club pick.

I don’t even know where to begin with this unique contemporary fiction story. Elizabeth Zott is a chemist in the 50s when women were expected to know their place in society — their place being the kitchen and the home.

Elizabeth struggles to be taken seriously in her field and as a single mother, in this amazing book. So when an offer to host a cooking show for women is put in her path, she reluctantly takes it.

She uses her no-nonsense attitude and chemistry principles to teach the women in America to not only cook but to follow their dreams outside of the home.

Zott is a quirky character like Eleanor Oliphant with a charming daughter and a dog whose inner monologue is as quirky as hers. An absolutely wonderful book about motherhood! You can also find this book on our list of Books Like The Love Hypothesis as well.

Are you looking for the perfect book for your next book club? Check out our Lessons in Chemistry Book Club Guide. If you love this book and are looking for more, we also have 15 Books Like Lessons in Chemistry .

The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren

Felicity “Fizzy” Chen is a romance novelist who has never been in love and she is beginning to think she has lost her mojo. Connor Prince is a documentary filmmaker who is thrown off balance when he needs to create a reality TV show.

When he convinces Fizzy to be the star of this show, sparks fly. The two have undeniable chemistry but will this ruin the TV show that is supposed to be about finding Fizzy’s true love? The show is supposed to see if chemistry is the same as compatibility. It is in essence, the science of love.

This was a delightful celebrity romance and is perfect for anyone looking for books like The Love Hypothesis.

Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood

Bee is a brilliant and unconventional scientist who lives by a strict code “What would Marie Curie Do?” She even has a secret Twitter account to help other female scientists in a male-dominated workplace.

When she is offered her dream job at NASA, she cannot wait to start until she realizes that she is not the lead scientist. She is the co-lead with her work nemesis Levi Ward. To make matters worse, he seems to be sabotaging everything that she tries to do. Could there be a better pick for enemies-to-lovers books?

Ali Hazelwood does an amazing job of writing fantastic romances while still including the struggles that women have to deal with daily.

Find this Book in Office Romances / Books Like The Love Hypothesis / Beach Reads 2023 / Audie Awards 2023

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

Any romance novel by Ali Hazelwood has become a must-read so, it is no surprise that I jumped at the chance to read her newest STEMinist romcom!

Elsie has learned to live two lives; an adjunct professor in theoretical physicist by day and a fake girlfriend the rest of the time (to make ends meet). She has also learned to read people and become the Elsie that they want her to be.

When she interviews for her dream job as a theoretical physics professor at MIT, her two worlds collide. How? I don’t want to ruin the surprise. Elsie learns what she really wants an how to ask for it in a delightful and charming way.

This steamy romance novel is a must-read from our ultimate list of beach reads. It’s one of my picks for the best romance books of 2023 too! If you are looking for books for summer, this one is for you.

The Complete List of Romance Tropes: Our 12 Favorites

Looking for more romances categorized by trope? Here’s all of our favorites.

Ultimate List of Romances

If you love The Love Hypothesis and all things romance, then this is the list for you! We have this list carefully divided by sub-genre.

Are there more books similar to The Love Hypothesis we should add to this list?

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Jackie is the mother of three children and a Speech-Language Pathologist who uses her love of books to create language-based learning opportunities in her speech therapy practice and with her own children. Her 20+ years of experience in regular and special education classrooms ensures the website content is relevant and informative. She started this website with Kirsten to share their passion for literacy with other moms and kids.

Review: The Love Hypothesis, by Ali Hazelwood

[fa icon="calendar"] Sep 13, 2021 11:08:00 AM / by Suzanne

The Love Hypothesis pairs a 26 year-old grad student/researcher with a 34 year-old faculty member/researcher in a fake dating relationship for the ages. I flipping loved this book. Everyone told me I'd like it, but I couldn't stop picturing the male love interest, Adam Carlsen, as Adam Driver (this book started as Reylo fic) and I knew, just knew I wouldn't like it because of that. I was so wrong.

This is somehow a debut novel. It doesn't read like a debut novel. It reads like a romance author at the top of their game and gave me all the feelings I want from a romance. I laughed, I cried, but most of all I was swept up in the love story. I read so much romance that it's rare I really feel the romance anymore, but this single POV story had me convinced that love is real and these two people are in it.

I read this mostly on audio, but when the BOTM copy I had ordered at 2 am showed up a week before publication, I finished the book in print just so I could race through those last 80 pages. And now I'm bereft, having not only no more pages to read but no more books from Ali Hazelwood either. This book is nerdy and queer and funny and fresh and *ugh* I loved it.

Adam is determined to have Olive's consent at every step of the way, and Hazelwood manages to make it hot as hell. It's a slow burn which makes sense for the plot and characters, but it's definitely a burn. Turns out, this author can write great sex, too! Miracle of miracles, we get character development, plot that makes sense, quality sexytimes and a whole range of feels from a single book.

One note - Olive is pretty clearly demisexual, but I don't think the word ever appears on page and it's clear she's struggled with her lack of sexual attraction in the past. On page, she says things like "I realized I could only be attracted to people if I had an emotional bond and trust with them, and even then not often" or "I wondered why I didn't seem to experience attraction, especially sexual attraction, like normal people". So this language may be off-putting to ace-spec readers, but it also feels natural for the character given her general dense-ness when it comes to caring about herself and not just science.

If you'd like to purchase a copy of this book, please consider using one of these links to support the site: Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Bookshop , Kobo , Libro.fm

I received a copy of this audiobook for review, but also purchased a print copy from Book of the Month.

Content warnings: sexual harassment and coercion by a potential supervisor (Olive's), past parental death from pancreatic cancer which is frequently mentioned because Olive's work is in pancreatic cancer detection, past parental neglect, past emotional abuse by a supervisor (Adam's), mentions of misogyny and racism in academia

Topics: review

Written by Suzanne

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Mar 15, 2022

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood | Book Review + Questions

Updated: Oct 25, 2023

When we chose The Love Hypothesis for our book club February book, I was feeling giddy and excited. But as I started reading that feeling slowly started fading away. But ... wasn't this book all hyped up on Bookstagram and TikTok? What was happening? Then a crazy thought entered my mind ... Was I too old for YA or NA books? Thankfully according to Marie Pabelonio, associate editor at Goodreads, NO. 😁😁 ( click here for the article ).

First things first , I'm not into the professor / student romance. Call me uptight, but it's just not my thing. And as it's not my thing in real life, then it's not something I particularly enjoy reading in books.

Second - Adam. I know he was supposed to come off as moody and sullen, but I found his character very bland. Very been-there-done-that. I hated finding out that he had actually been pining over Olive since their meet-cute. I don't see how that needed to be added to the storyline actually - it only made it worst for me! If Olive hadn't fake kissed Adam, then how long would he have continued to wait before talking to her?

Third - The first kiss. I thought their meet-cute was cute, but ..... the first kiss? Ughhhhh ... Olive kisses him, as she would have done to any random guy, because she wanted to fool her best friend into thinking that she was over the guy she last dated because her best friend was crushing on said guy but wouldn't do anything about it because she was thinking Olive was still into him. Again ughhhh ... These are PhD students, but why does it feel like I'm reading something outta high school? Also ... a stolen kiss is only sweet in movies and books. Trust me.

Fourth - Olivia and Ahn's friendship. Read paragraph above. If you need to go through all that to convince your best friend, then I question the friendship. If Anh is really her best friend, why can't they just have a sensible conversation about this? And what kind of best friend puts her friend time after time in embarrassing situations and expect her to do what she tells her to? Ahn was annoying!

Fifth - The sex scene. I was very shocked that it had unprotected sex. Someone assuring you that they are clean counts for nothing in my book and I think this shouldn't be included in books. Always practice safe sex. Someone in the book club also mentioned that she hated the way it was written and the words used. The word "pornographic" was mentioned during our book club discussion.

So is there one thing that I liked about this book? Yes!

Olive. But Olive without her friends and without Adam . Olive, a successful woman in STEM. She came from Canada and pursued her education in the US. Moreover, she experienced many difficulties and faced obstacles to have opportunities she deserved, but nevertheless she really fought to get them. I admire that about her, which is maybe why I am so upset at how she is represented in love and her friendships.

Book Club Questions:

Did you find that there first meeting was cute?

What did you think of Olive?

What did you think of Adam?

Did you find Olive immature at times?

How did you picture Olive physically?

What did you think of the side characters? Which one was your favorite? Which one was your least favorite?

Did you think that Anh was a cliché character?

Why do you think it was more important for Olive to deceive Anh than to tell her the truth?

How do you feel about unprotected sex in books? Does it ruin the sex scene for you?

How did you feel about how Olive managed the situation with Tom Benton?

How did you feel about the ending?

Do you think that this book was overhyped?

xoxo Elodie

*As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases

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Love Hypothesis Characters

Olive Smith

Olive Smith is the main character and narrator of the novel. Olive finds herself in a difficult spot after she kisses a random man in the hallway of the biology building to make her best friend, Anh, believe she has a love interest. Olive is more concerned with Anh’s happiness than her own embarrassment. Olive is disturbed later when she discovers that she not only made Anh believe she was dating the man she kissed, who turned out to be the professor, Adam Carlsen, but has made the rest of the faculty and student body believe she is dating him as well.

Olive and Adam decide to fake date, a relationship that Adam convinces Olive will benefit both of them. Olive does not know at this point that Adam has had a secret crush on her since they met three years before. Olive had run into...

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Synopsis of The Love Hypothesis

By Med Kharbach, PhD | Published: April 23, 2023 | Updated: March 24, 2024

“The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood is the focus of our post today. This novel, which belongs to the contemporary romance genre, intertwines the rigor of academic life with the unpredictability of human emotions, creating a compelling narrative that captivates readers from the first page. The purpose of this post is to familiarize you with the essence and charm of Hazelwood’s story without spoiling the delightful journey the book offers.

My discussion will proceed as follows: First, I provide an extended summary of the novel, laying the groundwork for understanding the plot and setting. Next, I discuss the characters in detail, diving into their backgrounds, motivations, and the dynamics that drive the story forward. To wrap up, I’ll offer some thought-provoking book club questions designed to spark engaging conversations and deeper reflections on “The Love Hypothesis,” its themes, and its place within the broader context of romantic literature.

“ The Love Hypothesis ” by Ali Hazelwood is a delightful blend of romance, humor, and academic life, focusing on the unexpected relationship between Olive Smith, a third-year Ph.D. candidate, and Adam Carlsen, a distinguished professor known for his stringent standards and demanding presence in the lab. Set against the backdrop of Stanford University, the narrative propels us into a world where science and emotions intertwine in unexpected ways.

Olive Smith, deeply immersed in her research and skeptical about the concept of lasting love, finds herself in a predicament that challenges her beliefs. Her best friend, Anh, is a firm believer in love and happy endings, leading Olive to concoct a story about being in a relationship to satisfy Anh’s concerns. This lie quickly spirals out of control when Olive, in a moment of panic, kisses the first man she encounters to provide “proof” of her non-existent relationship. This man happens to be Adam Carlsen, a professor known not only for his academic brilliance but also for his aloof and intimidating demeanor.

Photo: Amazon

To Olive’s astonishment, Adam agrees to play along with her fabricated story, entering into a fake relationship to help her maintain the facade. This arrangement is driven by their mutual benefit: Olive gets to appease her friend’s worries, and Adam has his reasons, which initially remain opaque, adding an element of mystery to their agreement.

As the story unfolds, Olive and Adam find themselves entangled not just in a web of pretense but also in the complexities of their feelings for each other. Their interactions, initially marked by awkwardness and a business-like agreement, gradually evolve into a deeper connection. This change is catalyzed by a series of events, including a crucial science conference that puts Olive’s career and research in jeopardy. Adam’s unexpected support during these trials reveals a different side to him, challenging Olive’s preconceived notions about him and stirring emotions she had not anticipated.

The fake relationship trope, a popular theme in romance literature, is explored with a fresh perspective in “The Love Hypothesis.” The setting of academia adds a unique flavor to the narrative, highlighting the pressures and challenges faced by those in the scientific community. Olive’s journey is not just about navigating her feelings for Adam but also about confronting her own doubts and fears regarding love, relationships, and her future in science.

Throughout the story, Hazelwood weaves in elements of comedy, the struggles of academic life, and the exhilaration of discovering love where one least expects it. Olive’s character development is central to the narrative, as she evolves from a woman determined to rely solely on empirical evidence to someone willing to explore the uncertainties of the heart.

Related: Corrupt Penelope Douglas Summary

The Love Hypothesis Characters

Here are the main characters in the novel:

Olive Smith : A third-year Ph.D. candidate at Stanford, Olive is pragmatic, intelligent, and deeply committed to her scientific research. She’s skeptical about the lasting nature of romantic relationships, a viewpoint that is put to the test as she navigates the complexities of her unexpected involvement with Adam Carlsen. Olive’s journey is one of personal and emotional growth, as she challenges her own beliefs about love, relationships, and her future in academia.
Adam Carlsen : Known for his groundbreaking research and strict demeanor, Adam Carlsen is a young and highly regarded professor at Stanford. Behind his professional facade lies a complex individual who surprises Olive by agreeing to her scheme of a fake relationship. Adam’s character unfolds as both supportive and tender, offering a contrast to his initial portrayal and playing a crucial role in Olive’s evolving understanding of love.
Anh : Olive’s best friend and fellow Ph.D. candidate, Anh is optimistic, caring, and a firm believer in the power of love. Her concern for Olive’s happiness sets the plot in motion, highlighting the strength of their friendship. Anh’s character embodies the warmth and support that are foundational to the story, influencing Olive’s decisions and growth.

The story also features an array of supporting characters. These include:

Fellow Ph.D. Students : These characters represent the broader community of graduate students, sharing the highs and lows of academic life, and occasionally offering comedic relief.
Academic Faculty : Various professors and academic staff who interact with Olive and Adam, influencing their professional and personal journeys.
Conference Attendees : The scientific conference is a pivotal event in the story, bringing together characters from various backgrounds and serving as a backdrop for significant plot developments.

Book Club Questions

Here are some thought-provoking questions to spark conversation:

Character Analysis : Olive Smith and Adam Carlsen are complex characters with distinct personalities and growth arcs. How do their backgrounds and careers in academia influence their initial perceptions of each other and their relationship’s development?
Themes of Love and Science : “The Love Hypothesis” intertwines the themes of love and scientific inquiry. In what ways does the book use scientific metaphors and concepts to explore the nature of relationships? How does this blend affect your reading experience?
Fake Relationship Trope : The fake relationship is a common trope in romance literature. How does Ali Hazelwood refresh this trope with her storytelling? Discuss the dynamics and evolution of Olive and Adam’s fake relationship and its impact on both characters.
Friendship and Support Systems : Anh plays a crucial role in Olive’s life, both personally and within the plot’s development. Discuss the importance of friendship and support systems in the book. How do these relationships contrast with or complement the romantic elements?
Character Development : Olive’s skepticism towards love is a central aspect of her character. How does her relationship with Adam and the events of the book challenge and change her beliefs? Discuss Adam’s character development as well.
Setting and Atmosphere : The academic setting is more than just a backdrop; it influences the characters’ lives and the story’s progression. Discuss how the pressures and culture of academia are portrayed in the book. What role does this setting play in the development of the narrative?
Humor and Tone : “The Love Hypothesis” balances emotional depth with humor. Discuss how the author uses humor to develop characters and advance the plot. How does this balance affect your engagement with the story?
Supporting Characters : Beyond Olive and Adam, the book features a cast of supporting characters who enrich the narrative. Which supporting character did you find most compelling, and why? How do they contribute to the main story?
Conflict and Resolution : Discuss the main conflicts in the book, focusing on both external challenges and internal struggles faced by the characters. How are these conflicts resolved, and what do they reveal about the characters?
Themes of Authenticity and Self-Discovery : In what ways does the theme of authenticity—being true to oneself in both personal and professional spheres—play out in the book? Discuss how Olive and Adam’s journey towards self-discovery and honesty impacts their relationship and individual growth.

Related: The Maddest Obsession Summary

Final thoughts

To conclude, I hope that you have found this short review of “The Love Hypothesis” interesting. Ali Hazelwood’s novel is a refreshing mix of contemporary romance and academic wit, creating a narrative that is as intellectually stimulating as it is heartwarming. If you have not already read it, I highly recommend diving into this story of unexpected love in the meticulous world of science.

Meet Med Kharbach, PhD

Dr. Med Kharbach is an influential voice in the global educational landscape, with an extensive background in educational studies and a decade-long experience as a K-12 teacher. Holding a Ph.D. from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, he brings a unique perspective to the educational world by integrating his profound academic knowledge with his hands-on teaching experience. Dr. Kharbach's academic pursuits encompass curriculum studies, discourse analysis, language learning/teaching, language and identity, emerging literacies, educational technology, and research methodologies. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences and published in various esteemed academic journals.

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The Love Hypothesis

48 pages • 1 hour read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 3

Chapters 4-6

Chapters 7-8

Chapters 9-11

Chapters 12-13

Chapters 14-15

Chapters 16-19

Chapter 20-Epilogue

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Different Types of Intelligence

Through the representation of academia , Olive’s difficulty to parse her emotions, and the differences between Olive and Malcolm , The Love Hypothesis shows how there are different types of intelligence. Olive, Adam, and others within the Stanford community possess intelligence, as evidenced by the fact they work in academia. Many of Olive’s thoughts about her experiment show how she understands the material and is always seeking new information with which to supplement what she already believes. Tom’s insults in later chapters reveal just how intelligent Olive is. While Tom also possesses a level of intelligence to remain in the field, even if that intelligence is only enough for him to copy and add to the work of others, his jealousy and view of Olive as a threat shows just how intelligent her thought processes are.

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COMMENTS

which love hypothesis character are you?
Take later. 1.2K Takers Personality Quiz. which aspect of soukoku's dynamic hits you the hardest. Take later. 2.9K Takers Personality Quiz. pick some things from my fantasy novels and i'll be brutally honest with you. Take later. 520 Takers Personality Quiz. which recurring metaphor in my writing are you.
The Love Hypothesis Summary and Study Guide
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood (2021) follows a female scientist's comedic journey to true love that's fraught with lies, tears, and awkward moments. The book was an instant NY Times bestseller, a BuzzFeed Best Summer Read of 2021, and Goodreads Choice Awards finalist. Born in Italy, Ali Hazelwood moved to the United States via Japan and Germany to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience.
The Love Hypothesis
The Love Hypothesis is a romance novel by Ali Hazelwood, published September 14, 2021 by Berkley Books. ... The Love Hypothesis follows the main character Olive in trying to convince her best friend, Anh into thinking that her dating life is going great. In order to convince Anh, she pretends to date her professor, Adam.
The Love Hypothesis: Recap & Chapter-by-Chapter Summary
Chapter 10. On Wednesday, Olive and Adam are texting and teasing each other when Anh comes in and comments on how in love with Adam she is. Anh says that she feels better about dating Jeremy, since she sees how much Olive likes Adam. As Anh leaves, it dawns on Olive that Anh is right.
The Love Hypothesis Character Analysis
Olive Smith. Olive Smith is the main character and protagonist of The Love Hypothesis. She struggles with her self-image and tends to focus on all the ways she feels messy, rather than all the accomplishments she achieves. Since her mother died 10 years ago, she's been alone, and her professional life is driven by the desire "to be less ...
The Love Hypothesis Summary & Review
Character Development. In "The Love Hypothesis," Ali Hazelwood's characters are not just ink on paper; they are living, breathing souls with depth and complexity that gradually unfurl as the story unfolds. ... replete with moments of humor, vulnerability, and growth. "The Love Hypothesis" invites you to ponder the mysteries of love ...
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood Published by Berkley on September 14, 2021 Genres: Contemporary Romance, Romance, Romantic Comedy Pages: 384 Format: eARC Source: Publisher (Netgalley) Add to Goodreads Buy on Amazon. When a fake relationship between scientists meets the irresistible force of attraction, it throws one woman's carefully calculated theories on love into chaos.
Review: Why 'the Love Hypothesis' Is Such a Hit Romance Novel
Here's why "The Love Hypothesis" is one of my favorite recent romance books: 1. The story focuses a lot on Olive and Adam's lives outside their romance, making their love story more believable and ...
The Love Hypothesis
Synopsis. In The Love Hypothesis, Olive is a third-year biology Ph.D. candidate who shares a kiss with a handsome stranger in order make her friend think that she's in a relationship. She's horrified when she realizes the "stranger" is Dr. Adam Carlson, a prominent professor in her department who is known for being a hypercritical and moody tyrant.
BOOK REVIEW: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
The Love Hypothesis snuck up on me and captured my heart. It was addicting, sexy, angsty and thoroughly intoxicating! I'm sure a huge fan of the fake dating trope and it not only made this book a ton of fun but it had a lot of emotional power too. With a broody male, a quirky girl and a story filled with science, contemporary romance lovers ...
'The Love Hypothesis' Author Ali Hazelwood on Getting Her Start in
The day before I was set to chat with Ali Hazelwood, the news broke that her debut novel The Love Hypothesis had officially become a New York Times bestseller, charting at #9 in print and at #11 ...
The Love Hypothesis Summary: A Comprehensive Synopsis
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood follows Olive Smith, a female scientist, as she navigates her journey to finding true love. Along the way, she encounters several other characters who play important roles in her life. The main character and protagonist of the story is Olive Smith. Olive is a brilliant scientist who struggles with self-image ...
THE LOVE HYPOTHESIS
THE LOVE HYPOTHESIS. Fresh and upbeat, though not without flaws. An earnest grad student and a faculty member with a bit of a jerkish reputation concoct a fake dating scheme in this nerdy, STEM-filled contemporary romance. Olive Smith and professor Adam Carlsen first met in the bathroom of Adam's lab. Olive wore expired contact lenses, reducing ...
16 Books Like the Love Hypothesis to Obsess Over
The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren. Felicity "Fizzy" Chen is a romance novelist who has never been in love and she is beginning to think she has lost her mojo. Connor Prince is a documentary filmmaker who is thrown off balance when he needs to create a reality TV show.
Review: The Love Hypothesis, by Ali Hazelwood
The Love Hypothesis pairs a 26 year-old grad student/researcher with a 34 year-old faculty member/researcher in a fake dating relationship for the ages. I flipping loved this book. Everyone told me I'd like it, but I couldn't stop picturing the male love interest, Adam Carlsen, as Adam Driver (this book started as Reylo fic) and I knew, just knew I wouldn't like it because of that.
The Love Hypothesis Quotes by Ali Hazelwood
Expiration dates are for the weak.". A sharp sound - some kind of snort. "Expiration dates are so I don't find you weeping in the corner of my bathroom.". Unless this dude was Mr. Stanford himself, he really needed to stop calling it his bathroom.". ― Ali Hazelwood, The Love Hypothesis.
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
First things first, I'm not into the professor / student romance. Call me uptight, but it's just not my thing. And as it's not my thing in real life, then it's not something I particularly enjoy reading in books. Second - Adam. I know he was supposed to come off as moody and sullen, but I found his character very bland.
The Love Hypothesis Symbols & Motifs
Get unlimited access to SuperSummaryfor only $0.70/week. Thanks for exploring this SuperSummary Study Guide of "The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood. A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Love Hypothesis Characters
Olive Smith. Olive Smith is the main character and narrator of the novel. Olive finds herself in a difficult spot after she kisses a random man in the hallway of the biology building to make her best friend, Anh, believe she has a love interest. Olive is more concerned with Anh's happiness than her own embarrassment.
Synopsis Of The Love Hypothesis
Synopsis of The Love Hypothesis. " The Love Hypothesis " by Ali Hazelwood is a delightful blend of romance, humor, and academic life, focusing on the unexpected relationship between Olive Smith, a third-year Ph.D. candidate, and Adam Carlsen, a distinguished professor known for his stringent standards and demanding presence in the lab.
The Love Hypothesis Themes
Get unlimited access to SuperSummaryfor only $0.70/week. Thanks for exploring this SuperSummary Study Guide of "The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood. A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Everything You Need To Know About 'The Love Hypothesis' Movie
According to Deadline, Elizabeth Cantillon and MRC Film's romance label Bisous Pictures has partnered with Ali Hazelwood to adapt her New York Times bestseller The Love Hypothesis to the big screen. "Bisous Pictures is thrilled to be working with Ali to amplify her voice and bring this magical book to the screen," Cantillon said.
Summary of "The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood.
"The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood is a charming and heartwarming romantic novel that cleverly combines elements of academia, humor, and love. This debut novel takes readers on a delightful…