I hadn’t read Ali Hazelwood in a while, but I thoroughly enjoyed this.
First of all, I don’t get forbidden romance that’s like “I can’t date my best friend’s brother.” Why not?
But in this case, “I can’t date the finance bro who’s taking the company away from the mentor who believed in me. I am Dr. Rue Siebert, the Ph.D. making great advancements in food technology so I can help make sure people around the world get fed”?
YES, PLEASE.
A few Rue quotes:
“I had no talent for enticing people to care about my work: either they saw its value, or they were wrong.”
“fingering the shimmery fabric of my green cocktail dress—which had pockets.”
“Were all dogs this shamelessly happy? Science should study their blood. Come up with good drugs.”
The love interest, Eli, had a big dog named Tiny, which made me melt. Rue gradually got to know Tiny, and Eli got to know her and her cool plants. (Yes, I’m more into the dog than into the guy. Don’t judge.)
They both had awesome friends who made me laugh.
And of course the cute set up where they’re supposed to have a one-night stand, but then hijinks ensure. Hee hee.
Did I figure out the plot and how they’d end up happily ever after? Sure. Hazelwood doesn’t hide it.
Was it still enjoyable? Of course!
I’m trying not to spoil things, but you will learn about Rue’s complex history and why he’s the right guy for her, on ice and off. That makes a richer book for me. I’m not interested in “she’s perfect, he’s perfect, now kiss.” She had real stakes in this book.
Have fun with this one!
