Book Review: Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood
When I first stumbled upon Ali Hazelwood’s Problematic Summer Romance, I was instantly intrigued by its compelling premise: a younger woman falling for her brother’s best friend amidst the picturesque backdrop of Sicily. The notion of an age-gap romance tied up with family dynamics and the heady charm of summer made it impossible for me to resist. Hazelwood has a knack for creating characters that feel genuine and flawed, and I found myself drawn into this latest tale from a beloved author.
The story revolves around Maya Killgore, a 23-year-old grad student, and Conor Harkness, her brother’s close friend, who happens to be 15 years her senior. Their connection embodies the age-old adage of “what feels right meets what’s wrong.” Conor, a successful biotech professional with emotional baggage, initially tries to keep his distance from Maya, reminding her that any relationship would be fraught with complications. Yet, as fate would have it, they find themselves sharing a week in a stunning Sicilian villa, where old feelings begin to surface and new revelations threaten to reshape their lives.
Hazelwood’s writing upholds the effortless charm that fans have come to expect. She elegantly intersperses witty banter with poignant introspection, capturing the nuances of Maya’s inner turmoil and Conor’s guarded nature. The pacing of the story is beautifully balanced; Hazelwood skillfully builds tension, allowing their interactions to simmer before exploding into a fervent, bittersweet romance. There’s a vividness to her descriptions of Taormina, from the sun-drenched landscapes to the mouthwatering cuisine, enveloping readers in a sensory experience that feels like a vacation in itself.
One of the aspects that resonated deeply with me was Maya’s character. Described as spirited, snarky, and fiercely independent, she grapples with anger management and the complexities of her feelings towards Conor. A standout moment that echoes in my mind comes from Conor’s desperate revelation: “I have never wanted anything as desperately, as ungovernably, as persistently as I want you.” It encapsulates the palpable longing that both characters feel, illuminating the emotional intensity that drives their story.
Not all readers will embrace the age-gap dynamic, but I found it refreshing how Hazelwood navigates the complexities surrounding it. Rather than simply relying on clichés, she presents a layered relationship that questions societal norms and explores the emotional depth of connection—something Hazelwood has a unique talent for.
Problematic Summer Romance isn’t just a straightforward romance; it’s a rich tapestry of character development, emotional exploration, and breathtaking scenery. It provides a reminder that love can often be messy, complicated, and yet entirely worth pursuing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance with a mix of humor, emotion, and the thrill of the unexpected. Whether you’re a longtime Hazelwood fan or just stepping into her universe, this novel offers something for everyone: friends-to-lovers tension, slow-burn romance, and the enchanting aura of a Sicilian summer.
Reading this book felt like a warm embrace and left me yearning for more stories like Maya and Conor’s. As I closed the last page, I couldn’t help but dream of the possibilities for their future—a future I hope to revisit soon!