A review by wanderingintopages
The Roommate Risk by Talia Hibbert

4.0

Jasmine Allen, a lifelong cynic and serial one-night-stand enthusiast, is suddenly thrown into chaos when a plumbing disaster forces her out of her home. With nowhere else to go, she turns to her best friend, Rahul Khan, for help.

For Rahul, this is a dangerous situation. He has been secretly in love with Jasmine for seven years, abiding by his own strict rules: don’t touch her, don’t ogle her, and most importantly, don’t confess his feelings. Letting her move in with him violates all these rules, and it isn’t long before he finds himself struggling to maintain the careful distance he’s kept between them.

As the two best friends navigate their new living arrangement, late-night kisses and tender moments start to blur the lines of their relationship. Rahul must decide if he’s willing to risk it all by confessing his feelings, while Jasmine must confront her fear of vulnerability and decide if she’s ready to let love in.

Tropes
- Friends-to-Lovers
- Unrequited Love
- Forced Proximity
- Emotional Vulnerability

It is a compelling romance that masterfully balances steamy chemistry with deep emotional connection. Talia Hibbert crafts two highly relatable characters in Jasmine and Rahul—both flawed, real, and grappling with their insecurities. Jasmine, with her cynicism towards love, and Rahul, with his quiet, unwavering affection, make for an engaging dynamic that keeps readers rooting for them.

The novel’s strength lies in its emotional resonance, particularly in how it handles the tension between friendship and romantic desire. Hibbert brilliantly captures Rahul’s internal conflict as he struggles to maintain boundaries with the woman he’s loved for years. Jasmine’s journey of learning to trust and open her heart is equally well-handled, making their romance feel authentic and earned.

The narration by Rooke Kingston and Keval Shah adds depth to the story, bringing the characters’ emotions to life and enhancing the romantic tension. Their performances complement the alternating perspectives of Jasmine and Rahul, immersing listeners in their journey from friends to lovers.

It is a heartfelt, swoon-worthy romance that fans of friends-to-lovers tropes will adore. With its witty dialogue, complex characters, and emotional depth, Talia Hibbert has created a romance that’s as tender as it is passionate. This is a must-read (or listen) for anyone who enjoys stories about love, friendship, and taking chances.