mitchgasm 's review for:

Love and Other Conspiracies by Mallory Marlowe

3.5

funny medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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A painfully accurate snapshot of tech culture, complete with flashbacks to open-floor offices and questionable kombucha, wrapped up in a whimsical love story, self-growth, and yes, a little ghost hunting. The paranormal touches added a fun twist to the romance.

This book is genuinely charming. Hayden, the swoon-worthy nerd, helps Hallie rebuild her confidence after a toxic relationship with her coworker. I especially liked how Hayden’s strained relationship with his mom played out, his character felt authentic throughout.

Hallie, though, was a bit tougher for me. On one hand, her trauma and the shrinking of self after a toxic relationship felt incredibly real (ouch, too real). On the other, I found myself wanting a bit more from her growth.

Overall: a sweet story with clever touches, though not one I’d necessarily rush to re-read. 

Third-act breakup? No!!! 

Happily ever after? Yes.