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A review by whimsydaze
Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This was my second Ali Hazelwood book having only read Bride before. Sadly, it didn’t live up to my expectations (especially when considering how hyped it is in some online spaces).
One aspect I did enjoy was the setting. The story takes place in Sicily, and that element felt well developed and truly immersive. There were moments that made excellent use of the setting, and those stood out as some of the book’s best bits.
One aspect I did enjoy was the setting. The story takes place in Sicily, and that element felt well developed and truly immersive. There were moments that made excellent use of the setting, and those stood out as some of the book’s best bits.
Now to the not so good…
I found the characters very frustrating (bordering on insufferable). The central conflict between the main characters is drawn out for WAY too long.m (it’s not that deep!)
I found the characters very frustrating (bordering on insufferable). The central conflict between the main characters is drawn out for WAY too long.m (it’s not that deep!)
Another element that didn’t work for me was the frequent use of online/TikTok style slang and expressions that repeatedly pulled me out of the story. I found this really distracting and think it will age poorly.
Finally, want to comment on the audiobook narration, as that’s how I experienced the book. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy it much. While this style might work well for some listeners, I personally prefer more subdued narration. This performance felt more like an audio drama than a traditional audiobook, which is not to my preference. Also, the narration is split between two performers) one for the female characters and one for the male) and they alternate throughout - this felt a little disjointed and I found the male narrator delivery off putting which made it hard to stay immersed in the story (I am sure lots of folks will disagree with me on that though…).
Finally, want to comment on the audiobook narration, as that’s how I experienced the book. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy it much. While this style might work well for some listeners, I personally prefer more subdued narration. This performance felt more like an audio drama than a traditional audiobook, which is not to my preference. Also, the narration is split between two performers) one for the female characters and one for the male) and they alternate throughout - this felt a little disjointed and I found the male narrator delivery off putting which made it hard to stay immersed in the story (I am sure lots of folks will disagree with me on that though…).
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Vomit, Grief