A review by sshrimp
Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I initially wasn't fond of the main character, Elsie, because I usually find people who are unable to set boundaries or say "no" to be frustrating. However, Elsie grew on me the more I got to know her, and her character development was amazing. I disliked her family, especially her parents who made her feel like a burden because of her diabetes and gave her the trauma that probably led to her people pleasing personality.
I hated her mentor because he was an egotistical asshole who betrayed her trust by turning down multiple job offers without telling her despite knowing her financial struggles as an adjunct professor. When Elsie finally stands up for herself, he starts calling her a "silly, stubborn girl" and tells her that he doesn't have her best interests at heart and just wants to control her. Unbelievable. I'm glad she filed a complaint against him and wish we could have seen his downfall before the book ended.
I enjoyed following Elsie's journey in learning to stand up for herself and realizing that people who truly care about her will do so unconditionally. Her love interest, Jack, was super supportive and had a large part in helping Elsie realize that she deserves better. I also liked the other non-asshole characters who supported her, though it would have been nice for those characters to be more developed. All in all, great characters and relationships. The writing felt cringey at times but got better after the 50% mark.
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