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The Love Hypothesis Quotes

30 Best The Love Hypothesis Quotes With Image

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5 key lessons from the love hypothesis, 30 best the love hypothesis quotes, related quotes.

The Love Hypothesis Quotes

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

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The Love Hypothesis Quotes That Will Tug on Your Heartstrings

Created: 1 week ago

The realm of romance novels has been shaken by a sensational entrant. Ali Hazelwood's The Love Hypothesis stepped onto the scene and rapidly captured the hearts of readers around the globe. Amongst its many charms, the quotes from this novel have resonated deeply, echoing themes of love, science, and the complexity of human relationships. As we delve into the memorable The Love Hypothesis quotes , we not only celebrate a literary treasure but also explore the profound impact that a well-crafted phrase can have on its audience.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll unveil the most poignant and stirring quotes from The Love Hypothesis . We aim to not only spotlight these gems but to also provide the context that makes them shimmer with meaning. With calculated precision to optimize for today's ever-evolving SEO landscape, let's explore the quotes that have enthralled so many readers, each one a catalyst for reflection, inspiration, and perhaps even personal revelation.

Exploring the Charm of The Love Hypothesis

Ali Hazelwood’s debut novel, The Love Hypothesis , has not only enchanted readers with its vibrant characters and witty narrative but also with its treasury of quotes that are as insightful as they are endearing. Set against the backdrop of the academic world, The Love Hypothesis weaves a tale of fake relationships turning into something unexpectedly genuine. Yet, it's the quotes that carry the essence of the novel, capturing fundamental human emotions and intellectual ponderings with elegance and relatability.

The Intersection of Love and Science

One of the central charms of Hazelwood's work is how it seamlessly blends the rigors of scientific inquiry with the vulnerability of love. The protagonist, Olive Smith, a Ph.D. student, approaches her personal conundrum with the same analytical mindset she applies to her lab work. The following quotes reflect this intriguing fusion:

• "Love is not a science, but it's still something worth studying."
• "Statistically speaking, I should be over him by now."

These lines highlight the juxtaposition of intellect and emotion that defines the unique flavor of the book. Through them, Hazelwood invites readers to ponder on the unpredictable nature of love and the futility yet necessity of trying to understand it.

Dissecting the Heart's Hypotheses

In The Love Hypothesis , Olive attempts to formulate theories to explain her evolving feelings, much like how a scientist generates hypotheses to interpret data. Both humorous and heartwarming, these quotes unveil the core of the human experience – to make sense of the senseless:

• " Experimentation is the step that comes after a hypothesis is formed. "
• "I don't need an algorithm to tell me how I feel, but sometimes I wish I had one."

Romantic Quips and Witty Banter

A significant source of the novel's appeal rests in its deliciously crafted dialogues — revealing quotes about achievement that sparkle with wit and romantic tension. Olive and Adam, her love interest, are at their best when their exchanges combine sarcasm, humor, and a touch of the unsaid feelings simmering beneath the surface.

• "I might be a scientist, but I'm not blind to chemistry when it's right in front of me."
• "My success rate with hypotheses in the lab might be high, but in love? Clearly, I need more data."

These snappy comebacks and clever retorts, illustrating their growing connection, will likely have readers laughing and sighing in equal measure.

Quotes That Inspire Empathy and Identification

The Love Hypothesis shines in its ability to make readers see parts of themselves in the characters, especially Olive. Below are quotes that encourage self-recognition and empathy:

• " In the grand equation of the universe, my feelings are a variable that’s not worth solving for. "
• "You might think you're an outlier, but maybe you just haven't found the right data set."

These reflections serve not only thank you message to retiring teacher develop Olive's character but also to speak to the reader’s own uncertainties and introspections about love and self-worth.

The Evolution of Romance: An In-Depth Analysis

In The Love Hypothesis , readers are treated to a modern tale of romance that refuses to follow worn-out tropes. Through Olive and Adam’s relationship evolution, mindfulness quotes for well-being drawn from the narrative serve as signposts of their journey from skepticism to a partnership that defies the odds.

From Academic Accomplices to Lovers

The progression from Olive and Adam's pragmatic arrangement to genuine affection is marked by pivotal quotes that trace the evolution of their characters':

• "He was an unexpected variable in my well-controlled life."
• "This hypothesis is becoming a theory — one that I’m more convinced of every day."

As the characters' relationship grows, readers find themselves invested in their story, propelled forward by each significant moment they share.

The Quotes That Define Their Bond

Key quotes from The Love Hypothesis offer insight into the dynamic between Olive and Adam, providing readers with the language to articulate the intricacies of modern love:

• " If my heart had a hypothesis, it would be that I'm falling for you. "
• "You're the proof to my theorem. Without you, it all falls apart."

Through these select phrases, the duo's connection is dissected and displayed, allowing those following their narrative to savor each stage of their romantic development.

Charting the Emotional Graph: Love and Loss

Within the ebbs and flows of The Love Hypothesis , the impact of love's trials and tribulations are depicted through quotes that stand out for their emotional depth and resonance.

When the Heart's Framework is Tested

Olive's challenges in reconciling her emotions delve into the heartache and risk that accompanies love. The characters endure trials that test their resolve and commitment, reflected in the following quotes :

• "He was an outlier in my life, the kind you keep even when they don't fit the curve."
• "If love is a variable, then loss is the constant that balances it."

The novel doesn't shy away from the pain inherent in relationships, wielding Olive's voice to articulate this timeless human experience.

Quotes Reflecting Love's Tenacity

Despite the struggles, The Love Hypothesis also affirms the enduring power of love through quotes that underscore its tenacity:

• "Our results might be inconclusive, but I'm willing to keep testing the hypothesis."
• "Like gravity, love seems to be a force with its own laws, and I've fallen into its orbit."

These poignant phrases encapsulate the strength and persistence required to nurture a love that can withstand adversity.

Synthesizing the Quotable Insights

What truly elevates the quotes in The Love Hypothesis is their ability to distill complex feelings into statements that resonate universally. Just as scientists compile their findings, it's useful to compile these quotes for easy reference and reflection, encapsulating various aspects of love and life.

A Compilation of Memorable Quotes

Below is a sample list of quotes extracted from the book, presented in a way that demonstrates their significance and place within the novel's theme and context:

• "Even the best hypotheses need revision when new data comes to light."
• "Being logical doesn't mean ignoring the existence of absurdity—sometimes, it just means embracing it."
• "In life, as in science, sometimes you have to admit that your initial assumptions were wrong."

Each quote functions as a window into the soul of the novel, providing readers with snapshots of wisdom and wit that echo beyond the pages.

The Impactful Takeaways

By examining these quotes , it becomes evident that love—much like science—requires a blend of empirical evidence and instinctual faith. Olive and Adam's story is marked by such revelations:

• "Certain elements, when combined, just have a natural affinity—like us."
• "In a world of variables, being someone's constant can be the most romantic promise of all."

In distilling the essence of The Love Hypothesis through its quotes , we gain insight into the delicate dance between knowledge and emotion, between logic and love.

Unpacking the Narrative Alchemy

The Love Hypothesis employs its narrative to blend humor, intelligence, and romance in a formula that appeals to a wide audience. The quotes sprinkled throughout the novel serve as potent reminders of how even the most calculated lives can be undone and beautifully remade by love.

The Intellectual Allure of Romance

The novel challenges the notion that intelligence and romance are mutually exclusive, offering quotes that perfectly embody this bridge:

• "Our laughter is my favorite chemical reaction."
• "Hearts aren't like chemical substances, you can't take them apart and analyze them. So maybe it's time to stop trying."

In supporting the story's romantic thesis, these quotes celebrate the merging of intelligence and passion, inviting readers to contemplate a love that is as smart as it is heartfelt.

Pearls of Wisdom from the Protagonists' Journey

Employing a comparison chart, let's explore key quotes and the core themes they represent, illustrating how love unfolds through scientific metaphor and heartfelt truths:

Through this chart, we encapsulate the essential messages conveyed by these quotes , further emphasizing their significance within the novel's narrative structure.

Conclusion: Beyond the Lab – Love's Universal Formula

The Love Hypothesis has achieved something exceptional in literature—transforming the abstract notions of love and attraction into a relatable and intellectual journey. The quotes extracted from the novel do more than add delight; they solidify the book's place as a modern classic of romance, filled with laughter, vulnerability, and the spirited pursuit of the heart's greatest experiment.

To readers and lovers of words alike, Ali Hazelwood's debut offers a treasure trove of poignant quotes that will continue to inspire and charm far beyond its final pages. As we close the chapter on our examination of these quotes, it's clear that sometimes, the most profound truths emerge from the exploration of the simplest hypotheses—those rooted in the heart.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is 'the love hypothesis'.

'The Love Hypothesis' is a romance novel written by Ali Hazelwood. It follows the story of Olive Smith, a brilliant physics professor, and Adam Carlsen, a cocky graduate student. The book explores their hilarious and heartfelt journey of love and academic pursuits.

Who are the main characters in 'The Love Hypothesis'?

The main characters in 'The Love Hypothesis' are Olive Smith and Adam Carlsen. Olive is a brilliant and determined physics professor, while Adam is a charismatic and cocky graduate student.

What are some memorable quotes from 'The Love Hypothesis'?

Here are a few quotes from 'The Love Hypothesis' that will tug on your heartstrings: 1. 'Sometimes, you find something you didn't know you were looking for until it hits you in the face.' 2. 'Love is like gravity—it pulls you toward the things that are meant to be yours.' 3. 'In love, sometimes, the biggest risk is not taking any risks at all.'

Is 'The Love Hypothesis' a standalone novel?

Yes, 'The Love Hypothesis' is a standalone novel. It tells a complete story within one book and does not have any direct sequels or prequels.

Where can I get a copy of 'The Love Hypothesis'?

You can purchase a copy of 'The Love Hypothesis' from various bookstores, both online and offline. It is available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book formats.

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The Love Hypothesis Quotes | Ali Hazelwood | Scribble Whatever

The best quotes by the author we have brought to you.

A good kiss will do that: make a girl forget herself for a while. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

A heart will break even more easily than the weakest of hydrogen bonds. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

Academia takes a lot from you and gives back very little. It’s hard to stick around without a good reason to do so. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

Academia was very much an old boys’ club, where those who held the power liked to take advantage of those who didn’t without repercussions. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“And then I’ll come find you, and I’ll take care of you.” – Adam” (The Love Hypothesis Quotes) Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

Approximately two out of three fake-dating situations will eventually involve room-sharing; 50 percent of room-sharing situations will be further complicated by the presence of only one bed. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Because I’m starting to wonder if this is what being in love is. Being okay with ripping yourself to shreds, so the other person can stay whole.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

 “Being okay with ripping yourself to shreds, so the other person can stay whole.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“But a good kiss will do that: make a girl forget herself for a while.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Carry yourself with the confidence of a mediocre white man.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

 “Everyone likes tall, broody, sullen hunks with genius IQs.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Expiration dates are for the weak.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“He opened his mouth, and then closed it. And then opened it again. You kissed that mouth, Olive. And it was a good kiss.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“He’d clearly never seen a rom-com or read a romance novel in his life.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Her heart may be broken, but her brain was doing just fine.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“I am going to take care of this,” he told her. There was something determined, earnest in his eyes. Olive had never felt safer, or more loved. “And then I’ll come find you, and I’ll take care of you.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“I know it’s scary, being vulnerable, but you can allow yourself to care. You can want to be with people as more than just friends or casual acquaintances.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“I must say, the line between excellent career choice and critical life screwup is getting a bit blury.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“I wish you could see yourself the way I see you” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“I’m going to kill you,” he gritted out, little more than a growl. “If you say another word about the woman I love, if you look at her, if you even think about her – I’m going to f*cking kill you.” (The Love Hypothesis Quotes) Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“If you say another word about the woman I love, He’d clearly never seen a rom-com or read a romance novel in his life.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“I’m starting to wonder if this is what being in love is. Being okay with ripping yourself to shreds, so the other person can stay whole.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

In academia every position above the graduate student level required some degree of assness in order to be held for any length of time, with tenured faculty at the very peak of the ass pyramid. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“It wasn’t until a few minutes later, when she was sitting on her bed staring at the Boston skyline and chewing on her lunch, that Olive realized that the protein bar Adam had given her was covered in chocolate.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“I’ve never been surer of anything. Except maybe cell theory.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

Not everyone has what it takes to be a scientist, and those who don’t should be weeded out.  Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Not having a life came in handy, sometimes.”  Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Olive had felt that he was on her side. Over & over, & in ways that could never have anticipated, he had made her feel unjudged.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Only child of financially rich but emotionally poor parents. I could do whatever I wanted but had no one to do it with.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“Or, you could stay mad, and we could go to your lab and throw test tubes full of toxic reagents at each other until the pain of third-degree burns overrides your shitty mood? Sounds like fun, no?” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“She would have loved to run to the edge of campus and scream into the void until modern civilization collapsed, but that wasn’t exactly a pressing matter.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

That’s the thing with science. We’re drilled to believe that false positives are bad, but false negatives are just as terrifying. Not being able to see something, even if it’s in front of your eyes. Purposefully making yourself blind, just because you’re afraid of seeing too much. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“There’s nothing bad about taking more than five years to graduate,” he offered in a conciliatory tone.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“This might be inappropriate but… Olive. You are really… You are extraordinary” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

Virginity is not a continuous variable, it’s categorical. Binary. Nominal. Dichotomous. Ordinal, potentially. Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“You can fall in love: someone will catch you.” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

“You kiss him and next thing you know he’s saving your ass and he’s buying you scones and calling you a smart-ass in a weirdly affectionate tone” Ali Hazelwood The Love Hypothesis

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The Love Hypothesis (Review, Recap & Full Summary)

By ali hazelwood.

Book review, full book summary and synopsis for The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, a delightful rom-com about a fake relationship between a biology Ph.D. student and a professor.

In The Love Hypothesis , Olive is a third-year biology Ph.D. candidate who shares a kiss with a handsome stranger in order make her friend think that she's in a relationship. She's horrified when she realizes the "stranger" is Dr. Adam Carlson, a prominent professor in her department who is known for being a hypercritical and moody tyrant.

She and Adam each have reasons for needing to be in a relationship, and they agree to pretend to date for the sake of appearances. Of course, as she gets to know Adam, it's only a matter of time before she starts feeling something for him, and it becomes clear that her little experiment in fake-dating just might combust...

(The Full Plot Summary is also available, below)

Full Plot Summary

Three years prior, Olive Smith talks to a guy when she's in the bathroom fixing her contacts (and can't see) after her Ph.D. candidate interview. She tells him about her passion for her research. She doesn't catch his name but remembers the conversation distinctly and wonders about the guy she met.

In present day, Olive is a biology Ph.D. student researching early detection methods for pancreatic cancer. She kisses a guy randomly in order to trick her best friend into thinking she's dating someone (so that her best friend Anh won't feel bad about dating Olive's ex). That guy turns out to be Dr. Adam Carlson , a young, handsome and highly-respected tenured faculty member in her department. He's also known for being hypercritical and moody.

Meanwhile, Adam's department chair is worried that he's planning on leaving for another university and has frozen some of his research funds. So, Adam he agrees to pretend to be in a relationship with Olive in order to give the impression he's putting down "roots" here, in hopes they will unfreeze the funds.

As Olive and Adam fake-date, they get to know each other. Olive sees that Adam is demanding and blunt towards his students, but not unkind or mean. Olive confides in him about her mother getting pancreatic cancer, which is why she's doing her research.

Olive soon realizes that she has feelings for Adam, but she's afraid to tell him. When he overhears her talking about a crush, she pretends it's about someone else. Olive also hears someone else refer to a woman Adam's been pining after for years and is surprised at how jealous she feels.

In the meantime, Olive needs more lab space and has been talking to Dr. Tom Benton for a spot at his lab at Harvard. When Tom arrives in town, it turns out he's friends with Adam. Adam and Tom are friends from grad school, and they have recently gotten a large grant for some joint research that Adam is excited about. After Olive completes a report on her research for Tom, he offers her a spot in his lab for the next year.

Olive and Adam's relationship continues to progress until they attend a science conference in Boston. Olive's research has been selected for a panel presentation, while Adam is a keynote speaker. There, Olive is sexually harassed by Tom, who makes advances on her. When she rejects him, he accuses her of someone who sleeps around to get ahead. He also says that he'll deny it if she tells anyone and that they won't believe her.

While Olive does finally sleep with Adam at the conference, she soon tearfully breaks things off since she doesn't want to complicate things with Adam's joint research project with Tom. Adam is also in the process of applying for a spot at Harvard.

Olive is certain no one will believe her about Tom until she realizes that the accidentally recorded the conversation where he made advances and threatened her. Meanwhile, Olive's roommate Malcolm has started seeing Dr. Holden Rodriguez, a faculty member who is a childhood friend of Adam's. Olive and Malcolm turn to Holden for advice, who encourages them to tell Adam about the recording. He points out that he thinks the main reason that Adam is considering a move to Harvard is because Olive is supposed to be going there.

Olive finds Adam and shows him the video. He is incensed at Tom and reports it to their faculty. When Adam returns from Boston, he reports that Tom has been fired. Meanwhile, Olive has been reaching out to other cancer researchers for spots at other labs, and she's gotten promising responses. Olive tells Adam that she loves him and that she never liked anyone else. Adam admits that he remembered her from the day he met her in the bathroom and that she's the one he's been interested in for years.

Ten months later at the anniversary of their first kiss, Olive and Adam re-create the kiss to mark their anniversary.

For more detail, see the full Chapter-by-Chapter Summary .

If this summary was useful to you, please consider supporting this site by leaving a tip ( $2 , $3 , or $5 ) or joining the Patreon !

Book Review

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood came out a few months ago, and I didn’t really pay much attention to it. However, people seem to really be enjoying this book, and after reading The School for Good Mothers , I was really in mood for something light and fun.

In the Love Hypothesis, Olive is a third-year biology Ph.D. student at Stanford who ends up fake-dating a young and handsome tenured professor in her department. All the usual rom-com shenanigans ensue.

The Love Hypothesis is an unapologetically cheesy rom-com novel — with an upbeat attitude, meet cutes, fake-dating tropes, etc. — but it’s also a genuinely fun and often funny book. It hits a lot of familiar notes if you’re familiar with this genre, but somehow Ali Hazelwood has arranged them in a way that ends up being delightful and entertaining.

The book is super melodramatic at parts, uses so many tropes I couldn’t even list them all here if I was inclined to do so and is predictable in the way that rom-coms are always kind of predictable. That all said, I still had a fantastic time reading it and it flew by.

This is a short review because honestly it’s not that complicated to explain that this book is super cheesy and super fun.

Read it or Skip it?

If you like “chick lit” and rom-coms, you should definitely look into this book. I tend to be a little hypercritical of books in this genre, but I really enjoyed The Love Hypothesis . I found myself smiling and chuckling quite a bit as I read it.

This book is a straight-up cheesy rom-com — it is funny, melodramatic and fun as hell. I thought it was great.

See The Love Hypothesis on Amazon.

The Love Hypothesis Audiobook Review

Narrated by : Callie Dalton Length : 11 hours 8 minutes

I listened to about half of this on audiobook. I think the audiobook is solid. The narrator is easy to listen to and does a good job with it.

Hear a sample of The Love Hypothesis audiobook on Libro.fm.

Book Excerpt

Read the first pages of The Love Hypothesis

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As a third-year Ph.D. candidate, Olive Smith doesn't believe in lasting romantic relationships--but her best friend does, and that's what got her into this situation. Convincing Anh that Olive is dating and well on her way to a happily ever after was always going to take more than hand-wavy Jedi mind tricks: Scientists require proof. So, like any self-respecting biologist, Olive panics and kisses the first man she sees.

That man is none other than Adam Carlsen, a young hotshot professor--and well-known ass. Which is why Olive is positively floored when Stanford's reigning lab tyrant agrees to keep her charade a secret and be her fake boyfriend. But when a big science conference goes haywire, putting Olive's career on the Bunsen burner, Adam surprises her again with his unyielding support and even more unyielding...six-pack abs.

Suddenly their little experiment feels dangerously close to combustion. And Olive discovers that the only thing more complicated than a hypothesis on love is putting her own heart under the microscope.

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The Love Hypothesis

48 pages • 1 hour read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 3

Chapters 4-6

Chapters 7-8

Chapters 9-11

Chapters 12-13

Chapters 14-15

Chapters 16-19

Chapter 20-Epilogue

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Summary and Study Guide

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood (2021) follows a female scientist’s comedic journey to true love that’s fraught with lies, tears, and awkward moments. The book was an instant NY Times bestseller, a BuzzFeed Best Summer Read of 2021, and Goodreads Choice Awards finalist. Born in Italy, Ali Hazelwood moved to the United States via Japan and Germany to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience. She currently works as a college professor and writes romance novels about women in STEM fields. The Love Hypothesis was her debut novel. This guide follows the 2021 Berkley edition.

Plot Summary

The Love Hypothesis is set in modern-day America and follows Olive Smith , a 26-year-old graduate student of biology at Stanford University. Olive’s research focuses on pancreatic cancer, but each chapter begins with a hypothesis about Olive’s love life or choices as is relevant to the chapter’s contents.

Two years before the main events of the story, Olive’s expired contacts act up right before her interview for Ph.D. candidacy at Stanford. While she waits in the bathroom for her eyes to stop watering, she meets Adam Carlsen , one of the foremost biology researchers in the world—though she doesn’t learn it was him until the end of the book. His wise words convince Olive that grad school is the right path, and two weeks later, she accepts an offer to study at Stanford.

Almost three years later, Olive is trying to convince her best friend that she’s over her ex-boyfriend so her friend, who is interested in her ex-boyfriend, will date him. Olive is working in the lab on a night she said she’d be on a date when she sees her friend walk by. Desperate to appear on a date, Olive kisses the first man she sees, who turns out to be Adam. Adam has a reputation for being mean and terrifying, and he demands an explanation. Olive haltingly explains her situation, apologizes for the kiss, and runs away, hoping she never sees him again.

A few days later, Olive’s friend corners her in the lab. Before Olive can spin an explanation, Adam arrives and acts warmly toward her, which convinces Olive’s friend their relationship is genuine. Olive wants to keep up the charade until her friends are solidly together, and Adam needs to convince Stanford he’s not leaving to get his research funds unfrozen. The two decide to pretend they’re dating for a month in hopes their fake relationship will be mutually beneficial.

Olive’s area of focus is early detection for pancreatic cancer. Her mother died from pancreatic cancer because it was found too late, and Olive dedicates her life to the disease so other people don’t lose loved ones to it. Needing a better equipped lab for the next phase of her research, Olive contacts several professors at other universities, but only one responds—Tom Benton from Harvard. He’ll be visiting Stanford in a couple of weeks, and Olive frantically works on her project in the hopes he’ll give her space in his lab.

Meanwhile, she keeps up appearances with Adam, meeting him at the campus coffee shop once a week. At their second fake date, Tom Benton joins them. It turns out that he’s a friend of Adam’s and wants to meet this girlfriend everyone’s been talking about. After listening to her research pitch, Tom requests a report by the end of the week, which Olive delivers. A few days later, Tom offers her a spot in his lab next year.

Olive receives an email regarding a paper she submitted to an upcoming conference in Boston. Her paper was accepted for a panel, which means she’ll need to give a speech. She’s terrified, but Adam helps her prepare until she feels more ready. Olive’s friends found other accommodations for the conference, which leaves Olive to share Adam’s hotel room. Olive’s panel overlaps with the keynote speech, and Adam is the keynote speaker, which means he won’t be able to attend as he promised he would.

After the panel, Tom approaches Olive and forces himself on her. When Olive pulls away and threatens to report him, Tom threatens to publish her research under his name and insults her, calling her mediocre and talentless. Adam finds Olive crying in their hotel room. Olive tells him what happened but not who insulted her. They spend the evening together. He shares a similar story from his grad school years, and they make love.

Olive spends the next few days dealing with her emotions, breaking things off with Adam because she feels it’s the right thing to do. When she finally meets up with her friends, they hear Tom’s insults, which Olive accidentally recorded after the panel. They convince Olive to tell Adam the truth and report Tom. Tom is fired from Harvard, and Olive and Adam get back together. Olive finds a new lab placement closer to Stanford, and the two stay in California together.

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The Love Hypothesis

When a fake relationship between scientists meets the irresistible force of attraction, it throws one woman’s carefully calculated theories on love into chaos.

As a third-year Ph.D. candidate, Olive Smith doesn’t believe in lasting romantic relationships–but her best friend does, and that’s what got her into this situation. Convincing Anh that Olive is dating and well on her way to a happily ever after was always going to take more than hand-wavy Jedi mind tricks: Scientists require proof. So, like any self-respecting biologist, Olive panics and kisses the first man she sees.

That man is none other than Adam Carlsen, a young hotshot professor–and well-known ass. Which is why Olive is positively floored when Stanford’s reigning lab tyrant agrees to keep her charade a secret and be her fake boyfriend. But when a big science conference goes haywire, putting Olive’s career on the Bunsen burner, Adam surprises her again with his unyielding support and even more unyielding…six-pack abs.

Suddenly their little experiment feels dangerously close to combustion. And Olive discovers that the only thing more complicated than a hypothesis on love is putting her own heart under the microscope.

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17 Heartwarming Books Like The Love Hypothesis

Last Updated on November 28, 2023 by Louisa

If you’re in the mood for a sweet, tender, and gripping romance novel, then it’s no surprise you’re looking for books like The Love Hypothesis .

Although fake relationship romances are nothing new, what I loved about The Love Hypothesis was that neither of the main characters needed love. Love found them.

In fact, I even got asexual vibes from our protagonist Olive, which is two thumbs up from Epic Book Society!

I’m not a fan of fairy tale romances. I like my love stories to be real, believable, and more than just falling in love.

The Love Hypothesis delivers this effortlessly.

But what other books are out there that offer the same kind of romance? Are there any similar books to The Love Hypothesis that have that believable, witty storyline? 

The simple answer is yes! Here are some of my favorite books like The Love Hypothesis for those who enjoy a heartwarming romance story.

Affiliate Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through any of these links. 

Quick Answer: Top 3 Picks

But first, if you don’t have much time and need a book fast, take a look at my top three favorites:

Our Favourites!

#1 Best Highly Acclaimed Novel

The Spanish Love Deception by Elina Armas

• Written by a New York Times and USA Today bestseller
• Another fake relationship romance
• A witty storyline with a slow-burning angst romance

#2 Best in Contemporary Romance

People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

• An adorable friends to lovers romance story
• From the New York Times bestselling author of Beach Read
• Winner of the 2021 Goodreads Choice Awards for Best Romance

#3 Best Romantic Comedy

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

• A funny enemies to lovers romance novel
• A New York Times bestselling author
• About a wedding where everyone gets food poisoning, except two enemies, who end up taking the honeymoon

Summary of The Love Hypothesis

But before I go into the top similar books, let’s quickly recap the story. Don’t worry, I won’t reveal any spoilers if you’re still reading!

The Love Hypothesis is a Tik-Tok sensation written by New York Times bestselling author, Ali Hazelwood. 

The story follows Olive Smith, a third-year PHD candidate who has always put her career first.

She has analyzed everything about her life and came to the conclusion that she doesn’t believe in long-term relationships.

However, her best friend is a hopeless romantic who won’t get off of her case.

In a rash decision to convince her best friend that her love life is fine, Olive kisses the first man she sees.

This man just happens to be Adam Carlson, a well-known hotshot professor. 

In a bid to get her friend off her case, the pair enter a fake relationship.

Despite his reputation for being a grade-A jerk, Adam surprises Olive with how supportive he is when she really needs someone in her corner. 

Could she be wrong about relationships all this time? This is a heartwarming medical romance novel with a fake relationship and a gripping storyline.

Books Like The Love Hypothesis

Now you remember what the story is about, it’s time to show you the top books similar to The Love Hypothesis …

1. People We Meet on Vacation – Emily Henry

Unlikely best friends Poppy and Alex live apart year-round, except for a singular week during summer vacation, which they’ve been spending together every year for a decade.

Until one trip changes everything and creates a rift between them that lasts for two whole years.

Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation is sure to quench your thirst for books like It The Love Hypothesis .

It explores the complicated truth that stands in the way of Alex and Poppy’s perfect reconciliation, juggling various complex characters and the nuances that make up their relationships. 

An adorable friends-to-lovers romance, and the winner of the 2021 Goodreads Choice Awards for Best Romance, People We Meet on Vacation is an ode to being true to yourself and your feelings.

View it on:

2. The Unhoneymooners – Christina Lauren

In The Unhoneymooners , Olive Torres finds herself at her sister’s wedding and facing off against the handsome but irritating best man, Ethan Thomas – her nemesis.

Unfortunately, disaster strikes when the entire wedding party falls ill with food poisoning, leaving no one to take the honeymoon arranged for the bride and groom.

Ethan jumps at the chance to take it and Olive reluctantly agrees to join him in order to prevent him from going alone.

The pair travel to Maui for ten days of bliss in what should have been a straightforward holiday arrangement.

However, they soon find that pretending to be newlyweds is far more complicated than they anticipated as they start to succumb to their own desires.

Will this unlikely duo discover newfound love along with a beautiful island paradise?

In this romantic comedy, two unlikely individuals find themselves squared off in a love-hate match.

I loved how the characters progressed and not only found their liking for each other, but changed their overall mental attitudes.

Read my complete review of The Unhoneymooners here or you can find some similar titles to The Unhoneymooners here .

3 . The Spanish Love Deception – Elena Armas

The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for a sizzling enemies to lovers, fake relationship romance story. 

It’s playful and funny, and restores your faith in love. The story follows Catalina Martín’s desperate attempts to find someone who’ll pretend to be her boyfriend for a transatlantic journey to a wedding in Spain. 

Although she cannot tolerate him, her colleague Aaron Blackford seems like the unlikely best choice—rather, the only choice Catalina has—and they embark on a trip that will change their relationship forever. 

Swoon-worthy and steamy, The Spanish Love Deception is a story about the rambunctious wedding that brings Catalina and Aaron together.

4. The Deal – Elle Kennedy

The Deal is part of the ‘Off Campus’ series by Elle Kennedy but can be read as a standalone novel.

Hannah Wells is a good girl with an interest in a boy, but she’s not confident in the bedroom.

To get his attention, she decides to step out of her comfort zone and tutors the cocky captain of the Hockey Team so they can arrange a pretend date.

Garrett Graham has only ever wanted to play hockey professionally, but he needs to improve his GPA if he hopes to reach his goal.

He’s initially only interested in improving his grades when he meets Hannah Wells, thinking of her only as a means to an end.

But one passionate kiss between them leads to an unforgettable night together – and suddenly Garett is questioning what he really wants for himself and for their relationship.

Can their deal of one fake date to seduce each other keep Garrett satisfied?

The story follows two people from different worlds who slowly realize that they may not be so dissimilar as they once believed.

Read my complete review of The Deal by Elle Kennedy here or find some similar books to The Deal here .

5. Beautiful Disaster – Jamie McGuire

If you liked The Love Hypothesis , then you will love Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire.

Meet Abby Abernathy: a good girl focused on her first year at university, not one for drinking, smoking, or swearing. And then there’s Travis Maddox – the playboy who gambles, fights and charms his way through every girl he meets.

When Abby outright ignores Travis’ advances, he takes it upon himself to get into her books by making a bet involving moving in together for a month if either of them lose.

Will they be able to win this bet or will it bring them closer than ever before? It’s a brilliant light angst romance novel with an unforgettable bad boy as the main character.

Related Reading: Books like Beautiful Disaster

6. Ugly Love – Colleen Hoover

Colleen Hoover is well known for her powerful romance stories, with just the right amount of suspense and a believable storyline.

If you loved the slow-burn relationship of The Love Hypothesis , then Ugly Love should be added to your reading list.

Tate Collins and Miles Archer feel something more than just a passing attraction when they meet, but neither are ready for love.

They decide on a set of ‘rules’ to keep things simple – such as never asking about the past and not expecting a future – but soon their arrangement becomes more complicated than either of them anticipated.

Things start to break down and their love gets ugly, but Tate finds herself unable to stay away from Miles and the dangerous yet electrifying connection they have created.

Related Reading: Books like Ugly Love

7. Restore Me – J.L. Seegars

Restore Me is a forbidden romance novel about finding love after loss. It’s similar to The Love Hypothesis in the way that the main protagonists are not looking for love, but love finds them.

It follows Dominic Alexander and Sloane Kent who are falling for each other hard, only Dominic is Sloane’s late husband’s best friend. Eep! 

At first, they hate each other. Sloan finds Dominic arrogant and dismissive, and definitely off the table given their history.

But little does she know that Dominic’s attitude towards her isn’t because he hates her…rather the opposite.

After one drunken night, everything changes…

With plenty of feels, laughs, and unexpected twists, this novel is sure to leave readers feeling like they’ve experienced something special.

8. Some Kind of Magic – Mary Ann Marlowe

Some Kind of Magic is the debut novel by Mary Ann Marlowe and what a first novel!

The story follows a hapless scientist who falls in love with a rock star — but is it love or chemical?

Eden Sinclair is a Biochemist and is unaware that the scent she spritzed on herself at the lab was not perfume, but an enhanced pheromone. 

When cute Adam Copeland, a grungy-looking guy she meets at a gig, who also happens to be a rock star who is loved by many women, she realizes the truth. Only she realizes after spending the night with him…

When this gorgeous rock god wants to see her again, Eden isn’t being honest about the spray. The thought that his attraction could be nothing more than a chemical reaction is too much to bear.

The only way to find out if the love is genuine is to ditch the perfume and see what happens…

The witty dialogue and thought-provoking conversations keep the pages turning as you follow this rock-star romance book with characters discovering love in a way neither one ever saw coming.

9. The Soulmate Equation – Christina Lauren

If you’ve already read The Unhoneymooners and you’re looking for other romantic comedies to get stuck into, then you’re going to love Christa Lauren’s other bestseller, The Soulmate Equation .

This book is similar to The Love Hypothesis in that it also has a storyline about two people bought together by science…or fate.

The story follows a single mom, Jess Davis, who is a statistics whizz. Her father was never around and her mother disappeared when she was six, and her ex decided he didn’t want to be a father – so she’s not overly fond of relationships.

But then Jess learns about a new DNA-based matchmaking company, GeneticAlly, and she’s intrigued. Can she find her soulmate through DNA?

When her test shows an impossible 98 percent match with the company’s founder, Dr. River Peña, she’s even more intrigued.

She already knows Dr. Peña and she knows he’s stubborn and arrogant. Hardly soul-mate material. But when she starts to get to know him, maybe the test wasn’t that far off…

Writing with insight and wit, this work is sure to leave readers captivated by its cleverly crafted characters searching for love despite the difficult obstacles they face.

10. Things We Never Got Over – Lucy Score

At first glance, you wouldn’t guess it from the cover, but Things We Never Got Over is a steamy bad boy romance book about Knox, a solitary barber. That is, until runaway bride Naomi shows up in town and turns his life upside down.

Naomi was running from her wedding and an evil twin who stole her car and cash – leaving her stuck with nowhere to go, not even a job. But what she doesn’t know is that she also has an 11-year-old niece in tow.

What started as a favor out of pity soon develops into something more as they both struggle against their own preconceived notions and try to find their happily ever after.

This single parent romance book brings together lust and love slowly as Knox realizes he’s found someone special despite wanting to stay away from high-maintenance women.

There are similarities between this book and The Love Hypothesis in that the love story is a slow burning story, but this one is more steamy!

11. Ever After Always – Chloe Liese

Ever After Always is the third book in the Bergman Brothers series, but each book can be read as a standalone story.

The story follows Aiden and Freya who are about to embark on an emotional rollercoaster of a journey in a slow-burn, marriage-in-crisis romance story. It’s a book about making love stronger and long-lasting.

Aidan has been in love with Freya for 12 years. She’s his wife, and best friend, and he wants to give her everything. Except there’s one thing he can’t give her – a baby.

With the pressures of family asking when they can expect a child, he starts to freak out. He starts pulling away from her, and soon she has had enough and she kicks him out. 

After being forced together to celebrate her parent’s long and happy marriage, the pair must battle to save their marriage and overcome their insecurities.

A story about taking chances for real connection and dealing with unknown consequences, this book brings together themes of family dynamics, personal growth, friendship and secrets.

12. Love on the Brain – Ali Hazelwood

If you’re looking for books like The Love Hypothesis , you can’t go wrong with another book by the same author, right?

Love on the Brain is the 2022 release by Ali Hazelwood and if you loved The Love Hypothesis , you’re going to love this one!

It has similar themes in that it’s another scientist-themed rom-com where a scientist is forced to work with her nemesis.

It follows the story of Bee Königswasser who is asked to co-lead a project with her arch-enemy, Levi Ward.

But when her equipment goes missing and the staff ignores her, she realizes that she may need the help of her nemesis after all.

As they work more closely together, sparks begin to fly, and no, it’s not just chemicals reacting in the lab…

An adorable, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy about an unlikely duo, this novel is filled with twists and surprises that will keep readers turning the pages.

13. Book Lovers – Emily Henry

In Book Lovers , Nora and Charlie share a mutual love of literature, but their professional relationship is one of polite dislike.

As they coincidentally meet more often, the tension between them shifts and starts to warm into something more.

This slow-burning romance book follows the same kind of storyline as The Love Hypothesis , with a delightful mix of wit and charm.

It will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next chapter to find out if Nora and Charlie will finally realize that what started as a mutual loathing may actually have been something else all along.

14. Make It Sweet – Kristen Callihan

Make It Sweet is an emotional romance novel about finding an unlikely love.

Emma has made a name for herself playing Princess Anya on a TV series, Dark Castle, but when her character gets killed off, it all starts going downhill for her. 

Soon after she’s canceled, she finds her boyfriend in bed with another woman.

She needs to get away. So she heads to the stunning estate of Rosemont, California for some much-needed relaxation and escape.

Only, things get complicated when she meets the owner’s gorgeous grandson and ex-hockey player.

It’s clear they have a growing attraction to one another, and yet they avoid each other.

But then one impromptu nighttime skinny dip changes everything.

This is the story of two people with broken hearts, trying to mend them again. Perhaps their hearts fit together after all…

Following a mismatched pair at the center of it all, it paints a vivid picture of what it’s like to balance love and reality in a charade of romance.

15. Must Love Cowboys – Carly Bloom

Must Love Cowboys is the third in the Once Upon A Time in Texas series, but each novel can be read as a standalone novel.

This is a sexy cowboy romance novel about a bookish beautiful librarian who is in need of a fake boyfriend for an upcoming wedding. 

After she starts tutoring a gorgeous cowboy, Beau Montgomery, who really needs help managing his spreadsheets, she asks him if he would mind being her date.

And he agrees. Only he has a secret – he’s had a crush on her since junior high!

To make matters worse, the town’s gossip mill forces them to keep their fake romance deal a secret and to continue after the wedding… what happens when all these secrets come pouring out?

With its combination of lovable characters, delightful moments of humor, and a chemistry that will keep you guessing until the end, this book will make you believe in the power of true love all over again.

16. A Not So Meet Cute – Meghan Quinn

Meghan Quinn is a USA Today bestselling author, and A Not So Meet Cute is one of my favorite pieces of hers. 

It’s a romantic comedy about a desperate billionaire looking to find a fiancée.

Often described as a modern-day Pretty Woman , this hilarious billionaire romance novel will have you howling throughout.

It starts when Lottie, a good girl who was just fired, decides to stroll around a wealthy neighborhood in Beverly Hills to search for a husband.

That’s when she bumps into Huxley, a man she takes an instant dislike to…but agrees to marry him anyway. Wait what…? 

In this romantic comedy, expectations are defied and hearts are won in surprising ways.

Readers can look forward to a refreshingly unpredictable journey filled with delicious tension, witty dialogue, and unexpected affection.

17 . The Summer Proposal – Vi Keeland

Another romance author I love is Vi Keeland, who, like Ali Hazelwood, is really good at combining humor with a romantic storyline I can believe.

The Summer Proposal is all about what happens after a blind date goes terribly wrong…

Georgia’s summer is about to get a lot more interesting when she meets Max, a captivating billionaire hockey player on the New York team.

As the sparks fly and the chemistry sizzles, it turns out that Max might be even more amazing than his dimpled smile suggests!

As they embark on a romantic adventure meant to help Georgia forget an old flame, they soon find themselves wondering if what they have can really only last one summer.

Will they take a chance and try to make it work, or will their romance be just another sweet memory?

This steaming hot sports romance novel that is sizzling with fire and passion. It’s a page-turner alright, and as it’s a steamy standalone novel, there’s no cliffhanger to spoil it.

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Final Word on Books Like The Love Hypothesis

The Love Hypothesis kept me hooked from start to finish and always intrigued by where the main characters would go.

I loved the slow-burning romance, the concept of a fake relationship, and a friendship turning intimate.

If you like these themes in your romance novels, then you are going to love the books highlighted in this guide!

If you have any more books like The Love Hypothesis that you’ve read and would like to share with other readers, let me know in the comments.

About Louisa Smith

Editor/Founder - Epic Book Society

Louisa is the Founder, Editor, and Head Honcho of Epic Book Society. She was born and raised in the United Kingdom and graduated from the University for the Creative Arts with a degree in Journalism. Louisa began her writing career at the age of 7 when her poetry was published in an anthology of poems to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee. Upon graduating university, she spent several years working as a journalist writing about books before transitioning to become a Primary School Teacher. Louisa loves all genres of books, but her favorites are Sci-Fi, Romance, Fantasy, and Young Adult Fiction. Read more Louisa's story here .

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The Love Hypothesis

• Author: Ali Hazelwood

Category: New Adult

• Chapters: 22
• Status: Complete

Latest Chapters

Synopsis of the love hypothesis by ali hazelwood.

The Instant  New York Times   Bestseller and TikTok Sensation!

As seen on THE VIEW!

A BuzzFeed Best Summer Read of 2021 When a fake relationship between scientists meets the irresistible force of attraction, it throws one woman’s carefully calculated theories on love into chaos.

As a third-year Ph.D. candidate, Olive Smith doesn’t believe in lasting romantic relationships—but her best friend does, and that’s what got her into this situation. Convincing Anh that Olive is dating and well on her way to a happily ever after was always going to take more than hand-wavy Jedi mind tricks: Scientists require proof. So, like any self-respecting biologist, Olive panics and kisses the first man she sees.

That man is none other than Adam Carlsen, a young hotshot professor—and well-known ass. Which is why Olive is positively floored when Stanford’s reigning lab tyrant agrees to keep her charade a secret and be her fake boyfriend. But when a big science conference goes haywire, putting Olive’s career on the Bunsen burner, Adam surprises her again with his unyielding support and even more unyielding…six-pack abs.

Suddenly their little experiment feels dangerously close to combustion. And Olive discovers that the only thing more complicated than a hypothesis on love is putting her own heart under the microscope.

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