Not in Love
by Ali Hazelwood
4 out of 5 stars
Ali Hazelwood's Not in Love offers a refreshing blend of science, business intrigue, and forbidden romance, marking a slight departure from her usual rom-com fare. While not without its flaws, the novel succeeds in delivering a compelling, tension-filled love story between Rue Siebert and Eli Killgore, whose chemistry simmers beneath the surface of corporate power plays and personal battles.
The premise—a biotech engineer and a ruthless businessman caught in a hostile takeover—provides an exciting backdrop. Hazelwood weaves Rue’s professional world into the narrative, offering readers a look at STEM from a fresh angle. Rue, like many of Hazelwood’s heroines, is driven, intelligent, and relatable, though more closed-off and intense than some of Hazelwood's past characters. Her relationship with Eli, a classic smoldering Hazelwood MMC, is electric, their attraction undeniable from the start. Eli’s obsession with Rue, bordering on overwhelming devotion, is a hallmark of Hazelwood’s style, and fans of that dynamic will find much to enjoy.
The shift from Hazelwood’s traditional rom-com to a more mature, erotic romance may throw some readers off, but the intimacy between Rue and Eli is steamy and well-written. The no-strings-attached affair, set against the ticking clock of corporate competition, adds layers of suspense and emotional complexity. While the transition from lust to love might feel abrupt for some, Hazelwood gives enough emotional depth by the end to root for the couple’s happy ending.
However, where Not in Love stumbles is in the pacing and character depth. At times, the corporate takeover subplot feels rushed, and while Rue and Eli’s sexual chemistry is palpable, their emotional connection could have been explored more deeply. The constant mention of Eli’s ex-fiancée might distract readers, making it harder to fully immerse in his present relationship with Rue.
Despite these minor issues, Not in Love is a solid addition to Hazelwood’s repertoire. The combination of STEM representation, forbidden love, and steamy scenes will appeal to fans of her work, though it’s essential to approach this book with an understanding that it leans more into erotic territory than her previous works.
Overall, if you're a fan of Ali Hazelwood's strong heroines and devoted heroes, and you're open to a more mature, intense romance, Not in Love will be an enjoyable, steamy read.
Looking for other books by Ali Hazelwood?
Loathe to Love You (2023) (The STEMinist Novellas)
Bride (2024) (Fantasy)
Check & Mate (2023) (YA)
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