Review of Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood
I came across Problematic Summer Romance while searching for a summer read that promised wit, warmth, and a bit of drama—and it did not disappoint. Ali Hazelwood’s reputation for crafting memorable characters and relatable relationships clearly shines through in this enchanting tale set against the stunning Sicilian backdrop.
The story centers on Maya Killgore, a spirited twenty-three-year-old grappling with the complexities of early adulthood. She’s everything you’d want in a protagonist: smart, funny, and a little messy. However, it’s her unrequited crush on Conor Harkness, an older man and her brother’s best friend, that forms the crux of the narrative. At thirty-eight, Conor embodies the “grumpy older man” trope, and Hazelwood expertly navigates the age gap to create a nuanced tension that had me turning the pages late into the night.
The plot kicks off during a destination wedding in Taormina, where Maya and Conor find themselves trapped together for a week. This close quarters ignites not just old feelings but also a simmering chemistry that’s both electric and fraught with complications. The power dynamics at play are fascinating, and Hazelwood pulls it off with such finesse, teasing the boundaries of taboo while keeping the reader invested in these characters’ emotional journeys.
What stood out to me about the writing style was Hazelwood’s ability to balance humor with angst. The banter between Maya and Conor is witty and sharp, packed with moments of real vulnerability. One standout moment is when Maya reflects, “Not everything is as it seems—and clichés sometimes become plot twists.” It’s a line that encapsulates the essence of their relationship, and it resonated with me as it reflects the complexities of seeking love in unexpected places.
The pacing of the novel is commendable. From Maya’s snarky internal monologues to the slow reveal of Conor’s deeper vulnerabilities, each chapter propels the story forward while painting a rich tapestry of their surroundings—think breathtaking views of the Ionian coast and the aroma of delicious Italian cuisine wafting through the air. If the book feels like a vacation, it’s because every scene immerses you in a lush sense of place.
Readers who adore an age-gap romance with plenty of emotional depth will find a lot to cherish in Problematic Summer Romance. Furthermore, Hazelwood’s previous characters make delightful cameos, making this a fantastic read for fans of her earlier works.
In closing, this book left me with a smile on my face and a longing for a summer escape of my own. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway packed with humor, tension, and enough emotional stakes to keep you invested, I wholeheartedly recommend picking this up. It’s not just a summer fling in a novel; it’s a heartfelt exploration of love—problematic or not—and it’s a journey worth taking.