If you’ve ever been torn between wanting that swoon-worthy romance and feeling totally over it, then Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood might just be your next binge-read. Hazelwood is great at mixing humor, emotions, and that geeky charm we’ve come to love from her books. In this review, I’ll share why this book is a fun ride for rom-com fans and where it might not totally hit the mark.
Alright, without spoiling too much, Not in Love follows Sadie, a woman in her late twenties who’s in that super relatable spot—wanting to believe in love but feeling jaded by past experiences. She’s juggling work, friendships, and all the usual life chaos when she meets Leo, a charming guy who keeps popping up in her life. The story is filled with funny, sweet, and sometimes frustrating moments as they figure out if they’re really meant to be or just passing through each other’s lives.
What’s cool about Hazelwood’s style is how she keeps things light and fun while also making you think about your own love life. It feels like having a real chat with a friend who knows how to make you laugh but also gets the struggles.
Why I Loved It
I have to say, reading Sadie’s story felt like looking in a mirror sometimes. Who hasn’t had that tug-of-war between wanting a fairytale ending and putting up walls because of past heartbreaks? Sadie’s thoughts really hit home for me, especially when she’s questioning whether it’s worth risking her heart again.
Hazelwood nails the realness of Sadie’s character. Her inner monologues are so honest and funny that I found myself laughing out loud, thinking, “Wow, I’ve totally been there.” It’s like she knows exactly how to capture those moments when we second-guess ourselves in love. That’s what makes the book feel like you’re right there with Sadie, experiencing everything alongside her.
What Works Well
One of the best things about Not in Love is how Hazelwood writes her characters. Sadie isn’t this perfect rom-com heroine; she’s messy, unsure, and super relatable. The humor feels real, not forced, and there are so many scenes that are both heartwarming and hilarious. It’s like Hazelwood knows how to tap into that feeling of navigating love and life in your twenties (and beyond).
Sadie and Leo’s back-and-forth is also a highlight. Their banter feels genuine, and you can totally sense the spark between them. You start rooting for them, hoping they can work things out. Plus, the way their relationship builds feels natural, not rushed like those typical insta-love stories you sometimes get in romance books.
A Few Things That Didn’t Hit for Me
Okay, so while I really enjoyed the book, I’ll admit there are a couple of things that might not work for everyone. First, the story can be a bit predictable. If you’ve read a lot of romantic comedies, some parts might feel familiar, like you’ve seen them before. It’s still a fun ride, but if you’re looking for big surprises, you might not find them here.
Also, Sadie’s inner thoughts, while super relatable, sometimes felt like they were on repeat. It was like she was stuck on the same worries over and over until the very end. If you’re into fast-paced stories or seeing characters grow quickly, this might feel like it drags a bit.
Overall, Not in Love is a fun, light read that gives you all the feels of modern romance. It’s perfect when you’re in the mood for something light but still real and heartfelt. If you love romantic comedies or Ali Hazelwood’s other books, you’ll probably enjoy this one too. Just know it might follow some familiar paths, so if you’re cool with that, you’re in for a good time.
Have you read Not in Love yet? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you find yourself rooting for Sadie and Leo, or did the familiar storyline make you check out? Let’s chat in the comments!
