review - Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood
#lemon8bookclub #lemon8bookchallenge #BookReview #alihazelwood #notinlove
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Rue Siebert is a biotech engineer at a promising startup facing a hostile takeover led by Eli Killgore. Despite their professional rivalry, Rue and Eli are irresistibly drawn to each other, but only on a physical level. They embark on a secret, no-strings-attached affair amidst the turmoil of their corporate battle. However, as their connection deepens, they must navigate conflicting loyalties and the risks of mixing business with pleasure. Their relationship becomes a high-stakes game where both must decide what they truly want, even as their companies collide.
As an Ali Hazelwood stan, I knew I had to read this book IMMEDIATELY, and I was not disappointed. While "Not in Love" was definitely spicier than my usual reads, I was still enthralled by Rue and Eli, with the feeling of will they/won't they? And, oh boy, do they. 👀
Okay, fellow bookworms, let's talk more about Ali Hazelwood's 'Not in Love' because, trust me, there's a lot to unpack beyond just the initial read! After devouring this one, I've had so many thoughts swirling about Rue and Eli, and I totally get why everyone's buzzing about it, especially for those curious about its 'spicy' rating. First off, for those of you who've read Ali Hazelwood's previous works, you know her brand of STEMinist romance often has a delightful slow-burn with just the right amount of heat. 'Not in Love' definitely kicks it up a notch! I found myself totally surprised by the intensity from the get-go. It’s not just a hint of spice; it’s a full-on, passionate affair right from the start, wrapped in a high-stakes corporate battle. If you're looking for something that goes beyond the closed-door scenes, this book delivers. It explores the physical attraction between Rue and Eli with a raw honesty that felt refreshing and totally compelling, making those 'is not in love by ali hazelwood spicy?' queries a resounding YES. Let's dive into Rue Siebert and Eli Killgore themselves. Their dynamic is pure gold. On one hand, they are professional adversaries, locked in a battle for a biotech company. On the other, there's this undeniable, almost primal, pull between them. What I loved most was how Ali Hazelwood used this conflict to really build their characters. It’s not just about their undeniable physical chemistry; it’s about how their forced proximity and secret affair force them to confront their own ambitions, insecurities, and what 'love' truly means when trust is compromised. Their witty banter and internal monologues about trying not to fall for each other are just *chef's kiss*. You can almost imagine the fan art for Rue and Eli, capturing their intense gazes and palpable tension. Speaking of visuals, let's give a shout-out to the book cover! I particularly admire the artistic choice of the illustrated couple on the cover, often set against soft pink fabric with decorative flowers and a subtle heart motif, which perfectly hints at the romance within without giving too much away. My copy was a signed, independent exclusive edition, which made it feel even more special and added to the reading experience. It’s details like these that make holding the physical book so enjoyable. Many readers might wonder if 'Not in Love' is part of a series, given Ali Hazelwood's interconnected universes. From what I understand, this one stands proudly on its own, offering a complete story without needing to read others first, though you might spot some clever Easter eggs for long-time fans! It’s a standalone gem that provides a full journey for Rue and Eli. Overall, if you're a fan of Ali Hazelwood or just love a good enemies-to-lovers trope with a significant dash of spice, corporate intrigue, and characters you can't help but root for (even when they're making questionable decisions), then 'Not in Love' is a must-add to your TBR. It’s a compelling read that challenges its characters to decide if love can truly blossom amidst rivalry and secrets, proving that sometimes, the most intense connections start when you're trying your hardest to remain... well, not in love.
