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A review by natashaleighton_
The Boyfriend Hypothesis by Susannah Nix

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated

3.5

Short and satisfyingly sweet, the third book on the Chemistry Lessons series was a really enjoyable read. 

Though not as nerdy and STEM focused as the first two instalments, I did love the plus sized rep we get in protagonist, Penny, who I felt was such a relatable character to explore. 

A kind, outwardly confident, yet emotionally cautious patent reviewer; Penny inwardly struggles with the idea she’s not good enough. Especially after catching her second boyfriend (in as many years) cheating. 

So her decision: to give up on dating (and her nice girl persona), and grant her fun loving, no strings attached alter ego a chance was a really incredibly intriguing. 

The path to self acceptance and emotional development this leads to, which also sees Penny realise she doesn’t need to sacrifice her own happiness (or wellbeing) to make a relationship work was really good. 

However, Barista Caleb (the sexy, friends-with-benefits-receiver in question) was  emotionally standoffish at times, which  did occasionally take away from his dynamics with Penny. 

We do eventually explore why he’s distant and I have to say, even at his surliest he still seemed a 1000% better that any of Penny’s previous boyfriends. Plus THAT epilogue was just soo cute! 

Overall, a cute, low stakes Contemporary Romance that fans of the friends to lovers trope should consider checking out.

Also, a huge thanks you to Pan Macmillan for the finished copy
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