Brews, Books & BFFs

---

Celebrating a STEM Queen and All-Time Fave!

I’ve read every full length novel Ali Hazelwood has released, and I can say with full confidence: she’s one of my top authors of all time. From swoony scientists to chess champions, vampire brides to prickly corporate rivals, Ali always brings her A-game. Her stories are smart, funny, and packed with heart — and meeting her in person this March? Absolute dream. She was hilarious, so kind, and everything I hoped she’d be!

Here’s a look at my rankings and reviews for each of her books:

---

💖 1. Love, Theoretically — ★★★★★

This one stole my heart. A perfect blend of fake dating (my all-time fave trop!), rivals-to-lovers, and that STEM girl magic Ali does so well. I was hooked from start to finish and absolutely swooned over the banter and chemistry. And… need I say more than Jack Smith!

♟ 2. Check & Mate — ★★★★★

Ali’s YA debut, and it did not disappoint! With clever tension, a fierce chess-playing heroine, and the sweetest romance, this was such a fun ride. I loved how grounded the emotions were while still delivering major swoon.

🏊‍♀️ 3. Deep End — ★★★★★

Fun, heartfelt, and perfectly steamy — this one had everything I love about Ali’s writing. The character growth was spot-on, the banter had me smiling, and the cameos from The Love Hypothesis were such a treat! A total win for fans of smart heroines, swoony tension, and layered romance.

😍 4. The Love Hypothesis — ★★★★★

Ali’s debut novel and it was absolutely amazing! Such a sweet story. I loved the well-developed characters and their charming personalities — I found myself laughing out loud and smiling nonstop. There was just so much joy packed into this book. It left me grinning from ear to ear, and it still stands out as one of my favorite reads of the year I picked it up.

🧠 5. Love on the Brain — ★★★★★

Enemies to lovers, science edition! Bee and Levi had such fun chemistry, and the nerdy backdrop made for a totally unique romantic setup. Great spice and swoony tension!

🧛‍♀️ 6. Bride — ★★★★☆

Vampire/human arranged marriage? Yes, please. I loved the world-building and the gothic vibes. A fresh twist for Ali, and while it didn’t top my list, it was still a fun, moody romp.

💼 7. Not in Love — ★★★½☆

This steamy forbidden romance follows Rue, a biotech engineer, and Eli, the front man of a company attempting a hostile takeover of Rue’s firm. Their secret, no-strings-attached affair is complicated by corporate loyalties and personal traumas. While the chemistry was intense, I struggled to feel fully invested in their connection. Some parts felt rushed, especially toward the end. Still a solid read, just not my favorite in her lineup.

---

🔮 What’s Next?

Ali isn’t slowing down anytime soon, and I. Am. Ready.

📚 Problematic Summer Romance (sequel to Not in Love) — coming May 27, 2025
🧛‍♂️ Mate (sequel to Bride) — coming October 7, 2025

I cannot wait to add both to my collection!

Ali Hazelwood continues to deliver smart, hilarious, and heartwarming romances that leave me smiling for days. Whether it’s academia, vampires, or pawns — I’ll follow wherever she writes next.

XOXO,
Jessica 💕