Harlow Layne is known for her contemporary romance style of beautiful slow-burn, sweet, sexy and swoon-worthy alphas, and fast pace, super-steamy romance in her Love is Blind series.
Can ya say 🔥🔥🔥!! Because that's exactly what this book was! Emotional, forbidden, exciting and so dang sexy!! I was a bit sad for Roxie and how little she thought of herself that she didn't believe that the super sexy Merrick would truly be interested in her. But boy oh boy does he prove to her just how mistaken she is.
Loved this reverse age gap romance. This is part of the Love 101 series and the first that I read. Roxie and Merrick were so good together. They will have some road blocks in their way since she is his professor although when he first saw her, he didn’t know that. The chemistry and attraction between them was so good. Loved watching them work their way past the obstacles and find the true love that they both wanted and deserved. Loved this read and highly recommend it.
I’m not really a fax of student/teacher story lines but since I have read a few books by Harlow Layne,which I thoroughly enjoyed, I decided to give Basic Chemistry a chance. I must say I was intrigued that in this book, it is the female who is the slightly older professor in the story.
The chemistry that sizzles between Roxie and Merrick is so scorchingly hot that I could feel it’s intensity as I read. Roxie in particular knows that she cannot cross the line and yet there is something about Merrick that she finds impossible to resist.
There were moments of humour as well as numerous moments where I swooned. The passion is off the charts as this secret romance becomes complicated. Merrick is such an outrageous character that you cannot help but fall for him and yet there is more to the brash young man that appears.
There were times that I really felt for Roxie, she has numerous insecurities and her self esteem is low so to think that Merrick could possibly be interested in her is laughable. You could feel the tension as Roxie struggles with the feelings that Merrick brings to the surface.
A well written story, with characters you cannot help but like and was an entertaining read.
Basic Chemistry by Harlow Layne is part of the Love 101 series. It is a student teacher romance as well as a reverse age-gap romance. This book is fun, sexy, and keeps you on edge. The will-they-won’t-they push and pull is strong in this novel, so if you like that you will love this story. The secrecy is also alive and well! The forbidden aspect made this book so good, will they get caught? Who will catch them? Will they make it through the school year? So many questions answered and all you have to do is read the story!
Merrick is a student at Willow Bay college and Roxie is his curvy, sexy as sin teacher. She catches his eye instantly. Roxie recognizes how attractive Merrick is but also how forbidden he is. Merrick is as determined as they come. He focuses the majority of his efforts on Roxie and getting her alone. Once he succeeds, they get in deep. They know that it can’t always be fun and games. Things get serious not only between them but in reality. This story is so good, it gives you a perfect mix of steam and suspense.
Walker is Merrick’s best friend and you will get his story, The Rocker, coming February 2022.
This was an alright read. This is book 8 of the Love 101 series. The story is a student-teacher romance. The story is a romance between Roxie, the teacher, and Merrick, the student. I thought the story was quite boring. It was not like most of the student-teacher books that I have read. The characters were not really relatable and I found them to be just okay. The ending seemed a bit rushed. I cannot wait to read the other books in the Love 101 series even though they are really short. Overall, an okay read.
If you want a short, steamy student/professor, forbidden romance, then this is for you. Merrick was instantly attracted to Roxie before knowing she is his teacher. But that doesn't deter him from pursuing her. They had chemistry, they had the angst. However, Roxie could lose her job if they were to pursue a relationship.
I really liked Merrick. I think he's really a sweet guy. Even though I kind of feel for him whenever Roxie tries to hide what they have. But I enjoyed this one.
Basic Chemistry by Harlow Layne is book 8 in the Love 101 Series. This is the story of Merrick Landry and Roxie Hart. Roxie turns out to be Merrick's professor for Chemical Process Design but that doesn't stop his attraction toward her. This was a quick hot read.
The moment Merrick saw Roxie there was an instant attraction for him. Roxie being his college chemistry professor did not thing to change how he felt. Nothing would hold him back on his pursuit of Roxie. Roxie is a little more discreet when it comes to her attraction to Merrick. She understands there is a big risk when it comes to him considering he is her student. Roxie really made Merrick work for it and really made him prove himself.
Merrick isn’t the typical 22 college male who is just looking to hook up, he actually is looking for more. He is serious. He just needs to prove to Roxie that he is. Roxie is older, at 30, and didn’t set out on wanting to hook up with her student.
I loved the chemistry between the two of them from the start. Their story was full of plenty of push and pull. Steamy scenes and plenty of romance.
If you’re looking for a Student/Teacher forbidden romance this is one to check out!
Merrick Landry has his sights set on Roxie Hart from the first moment he sees her. But when she introduces herself to the class, he discovers she is his professor for Chemical Process Design. He won’t let a small detail like that stop him, so he sets his sights on her and intends to pursue her.
But both of them run a risk trying to be a couple at the the university. She could lose her job. He could be asked to leave Willow Bay University. Or worse… a student with compromising pictures of the two of them is ready to blackmail them to get what he wants. And it goes way beyond just the two of them! Can he be stopped? Will their reputations be damaged beyond repair? And what other repercussions will they be forced to endure?
Merrick had an instant attraction to Roxie with her red lips and curvaceous figure. Too bad she was his teacher. If you love books with secret romances, smoldering looks, illicit hook-ups and more than a basic chemistry, then this steamy romance may be the book for you. Merrick is a dirty talking alpha and just a tad over the top in his pursuit of Roxie. She is sexy, a little older than Merrick, and not convinced he is in it for the long haul. Harlow captured the push and pull of their relationship as they struggled with keeping their romance a secret while wanting to tell the world. I love Merrick’s best friend, Walker – their interactions back and forth showed the depth of their friendship. Here’s to hoping Walker gets a book of his own (please, please Harlow!). Advanced copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Another book that I wanted to like but I just couldn't. I really don't know how it got so many great reviews. The premise was great but the story itself. Just no. I felt no connection between the H and the h at all. The story takes place during his last year of college and he needs her class to finish. It's the first semester and from the get go he's in love. Or lust, as it were.
It felt like he was just a sex toy for her to use. Their first encounter was weird. There seemed to be no feeling at all from her. Like she was just going about her business but oh we're having sex,ok. Oh and it was all from his POV the whole way. Except the epilogue. The H was such a whiny girl you could definitely tell he was just 22 as opposed to her 30. And I get it, she didn't want them to get caught but come on. Get over it and stop with the back seat sexy times. Then when they do get caught and blackmailed, she cuts him off. Just like that. That's January of the school year when they break up and he tells her he loves her but she's like nope can't do it because we can't be together. The epilogue is months later when he graduates and she finally decides to go see him at his graduation. By this time I just want strangle this chick. It doesn't feel like she loves him at all, but I guess she does because she asks for forgiveness. Then he apologies when she starts go cry like it's his fault. He tells her he loves her again and she's all, huh? You love me? Ugh!! He definitely let her off the hook too easily. I know it's a rant review but I barely finished this book. Her brother and his friend seemed more interesting than the main couple. This is entirely my own opinion. I focus on certain aspects and went from there. Thankfully I borrowed and didn't buy.
Sweet and predictable with lots of cute moments. Merrick is in his last year of college, and needs this chemistry class to graduate for his chemical engineering degree. When he meets the teacher, he’s floored because she’s a dream come true. Immediately, he’s smitten and planning how to get together with her.
Roxie is living with her brother and helping him get better over an injury and depression. The last thing she needs is a student hitting on her, even more when it puts her career at risk.
Merrick is insistent and not below a little stalking to get his prey but although the attraction is mutual, they are constrained to hiding. Sometimes he behaves like a whiney little kid when he doesn’t get his way, but when they do get together, they are dynamite.
This was an entertaining and easy to read story but I had some complains. The amount of sex scenes took away from the story. They were a compatible couple with full lives, but you don’t read a lot about that. They have issues like the difference in age and her curvy body, which are discussed between them but not at depth.
We learn a lot about Walter, Merrick’s best friend who will star in a future book, but are kept in the dark about who Declan, Roxie’s brother, is. I felt the book needed a bit more meat and a lot less sex, but that’s just my opinion. I always read a book for the story, not for the steamy scenes.
I love that the author develops her characters through their actions and dialogues and not incessant babbling for which I’m eternally grateful. And the pace of the story is great, moving forward at a great clip. Overall, a good read with a meh ending. I have read other books by this author that were brilliant and compelling, this one wasn’t.
Taboo/secretive teacher/student affair with a bit of a twist in roles.
I have to start by giving props to Harlow, for making the main female character Roxie, the slightly older teacher who wasn't looking to hook up with the hot younger twenty-two college student Merrick. I loved that this book didn't have the naively student falling for the older professor again. Yes its still that type of romance but with the characters reversed and no one being naive about the situation made it a bit more realistic at times.
Roxie, was a newly professor in the Bay Willow College. She definitely has insecurities about her body that seem to plague her from her past, which has her doubting Merrick's attention and words. She seems to really struggle at times with keeping up a relationship with her student and tries to place rules on their time together. She never seemed to be out to have an affair with a student and yes they hook up fast in the story but they are both consenting adults falling in love at the wrong time and place.
Merrick, isn't what I would call a player but he does have that lack of experience when it comes to maturity at times with the relationship he finds himself in with his teacher. He basically starts out as just looking to hook up with her but finds himself having some serious feelings he has never had before for Roxie. He in a sense becomes more emotional in their relationship and feels more heartbreak at times by what they face sneaking around.
I feel like even though this is a quick read with a ton of steamy moments, it has a heartfelt message that even though these two people weren't supposed to engage in a relationship other than student/teacher, they find themselves connected more than just a hook up but feelings that grow from this encounter. So if you're looking for a quick read with a bit of taboo relationship with a HEA grab this book and let Harlow, do what she does best by giving you steamy moments with some angst and HEA. I voluntarily signed up to review this book with nothing to gain other than giving my honest opinion/review of this book.
Let me start by saying that Harlow is one of my very favorite authors. Every single time I pick up a book by her I know it’s going to be such a awesome read . Basic chemistry Is the perfect example . I loved everything about this story . The chemistry between Merrick and Roxie is off the charts . From the moment they meet the sparks are flying . I absolutely love student teacher romances so much, even more when they are forbidden. Their are many obstacles they must conquer to be together , but man the steam , the chemistry, the emotional moments just had me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. And how can you not fall completely in love with Merrick the way he jumped in full force and did everything in his power to seduce and win over Roxie . Harlow once again took me on the ride of my life . She excels at writing such flawless and phenomenal stories that will leave you wanting more long after you have finished. This is part of the 101 series as well as a age -gap / student teacher romance and should not be missed ❤️📕🥰
I can't tell you how much I adored this story, it really took me by surprise starting with the forbidden factor of the teacher/student relationship with the twist that in this story the professor was a female.
The chemistry between Merrick and Roxie was incredible. I love how Merrick treated Roxie, like she was the most precious thing ever and the patience he had towards her, giving her the confidence she didn't have.
Roxie was sweet and caring but with so much in her shoulders with her brother's problems. Her insecurities in herself made this college professor a shy and vulnerable woman but when Merrick had her in his arms she felt beautiful and worth it.
At moments I found myself frustrated with Roxie but Merrick always made things better.
This was a sweet, fun and very steamy romance and I definitely recommend reading.
Basic Chemistry is a STEAMY, slightly dirty & passionate reverse age gap, professor/student forbidden romance.
Merrick has his sights set on Roxie from the second he sees her….too bad that’s 1 second before he realizes that she is his professor. Not that anything will deter him. As he stealthily pursues her, Roxie can’t ignore the passion he ignites but their “relationship” has to be a secret or they both face consequences.
This is such a steamy book. The chemistry is anything but basic. I loved how Merrick set his sights and got his girl. The sneaking around was hot…the car sex was hotter but the actual feelings & love they developed for each other was the best part.
This is a bit angsty as they face obstacles beyond the forbidden aspect but I loved how they overcame. I really enjoyed this book and I’m always a fan of Harlow’s reverse agp gap romances…she always does them right with smart/strong women and relentless sexy men who love their women with everything.
4.5 Stars for Basic Chemistry I was intrigued by this book, I was interested to see how Harlow Layne would spin a slightly older female professor falling for her student, honestly this isn’t normally a genre I’m drawn to but that being said this was a entertaining read with characters I couldn’t help liking. Roxie has plenty of insecurities and low self esteem which makes her easy to relate to and she really can’t believe Merrick would ever be interested in her but will she be prepared to take chance and cross the line that could ruin her career. Merrick is cocky, brash and at times outrageous but there are many layers to this young man and he only allows us to see what he wants us to see, could it all be a front to cover up his true feelings. The chemistry is sizzling, the humour is perfect but it’s the love this couple share that take this book to the next level. This is a well written, entertaining, seriously hot read that will appeal to a wide range of audiences.
𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄: Forbidden Romance trope...that too Teacher-student Romance, there was no chance of me stopping myself from reading this book.
Author Layne's words always have a way to fill my heart with such intense emotions. Merrick and Roxie have a relationship that will is unconventional but man the love is as true as it gets. My first book where the heroine is teacher and the hero is a student...really spice up things for me.
If you are looking for a Forbidden Romance with a very steamy and sweet love story...then this is a must.
The moment he laid eyes on her, he knew she was someone special. Nothing can stop her being his. Even when she turned out to be his teacher.
The story is sweet, emotional, dreamy and romantic. It is a short, tabooed, age gap, romance novel with an engrossing plot. It has a lovable male protagonist and the great chemistry between the characters will make it enjoyable for its readers. The story is narrated in the POV of the male protagonist for the most part. A recommended book for readers who like this genre.
Personal Take: I really liked the way @harl0wlayne kept the characters realistic. The characters' love was unconventional but so dreamy at the same time. It was an entertaining story with a fast moving plot which made me finish the book in one go.
Hello Merrick, this guy had me panting at how hot he is. I absolutely loved this story. I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between Merrick and Roxie flew off the pages. What a way to get together, two people who are attracted to each other, who want nothing more than to be together, and yet, one little minor thing is holding them back, Roxie is Merrick's professor. No matter what, these two can't deny there chemistry for each other.
This story was written perfectly. It had me laughing, crying and wicked swooning hardcore. Get ready to fall hard for Merrick, the things he says the way he acts had my heart and stomach doing flips. Harlow Layne writes steam like no other. She grabs your attention from the very first sentence of the book. This is an absolute must devour!
Basic Chemistry is a sweet student teacher romance with a side of sexy. This also is a reverse age gap with the two main characters, Roxie and Merrick. Merrick is confident in being attracted to his professor Roxie Hart. He is determined to have a physical relationship with her. Roxie is the slightly older college professor who doesn’t expect to be starting a relationship with one of her students. There is some hesitation in the beginning because Roxie doesn’t want to lose her job. However, the chemistry is just too strong that they end up starting something but have to keep it quiet. This book gives us drama, angst, dirty talking hero. Definitely a recipe for a good book. I recommend this book for all to read!
It’s hard to describe everything I thought and felt while reading this book. I hated Merrick, because of the way how he thought about Roxie at the beginning, like an object and not a person, something to put on check list. But then chemistry appeared, feelings appeared and beautiful story appeared. This secret romance was finally very interesting, with so many details and great characters development , that at the end I loved it. I did also totally fallen in love with Merrick, he is young, bit reckless but also so sweet and so in love. I’m little bit disappointed with the fact that we miss part of the story, how Roxie dealt with Jeremy, how Merrick dealt with all of it, it really bothered me. But I did really really loved this story, then I can forget this tiny deception. 😁
Basic Chemistry is apart of the Love 101 series. It is an age-gap romance, and a student/teacher romance. It was not my favorite story by Harlow as I am not huge into student/teacher romances but it was still a great read!
The chemistry between Roxie and Merrick was instant and at time intense all while steamy, Merrick at first glance seems to be a nerd but is really an alpha. It was a great read, made me laugh at times, and full of keeping you on the edge of your seat with the will they wont they vibes.
I am extremely excited to get Warren's story "The Rocker". Warren is Merrick's best friend. I love me a Rockstar romance 😍😍
There is nothing basic about their chemistry. It leaks through their words and definitely adds a sizzle as you follow one man's journey to a love for teacher that leaves the teacher learning a few things.
These characters felt so real. Merick will melt your heart and leave you speechless. Roxie puts a good front but she has her fears. He comes in hot and over the top and its hard to believe that he doesn't only want one thing but like I said he'll melt your heart - let him in.
As with anything that feels good, fears come to light and running happens. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
Roxie and Merrick’s chemistry is down right combustible when they first get together.
I loved how the story is all in Merrick’s POV (except the epilogue) and we were still able to feel Roxie’s emotions and thoughts.
Harlow is the queen of reverse age gap and I love seeing/reading her Heroes and heroines interactions and connections. The hero might be younger, but they are all man and know exactly what they want. Merrick isn’t afraid to do anything to gain and keep Ms. Hart’s attention.
Basic Chemistry is a low angst, fast paced, Insta lust and love novel that you will not regret reading.
Absolutely loved this story and from the minute I began reading it I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between Merrick and Roxie is undeniable and extremely intense. The characters were amazing, Merrick the oh so yummy, one part nerd and yet all male and definitely knows what he wants. Roxie the beautiful professor who doesn't see herself that way, who tries her damnedest to seem unaffected by his charm. LOVED IT. Their story brought me through so many emotions, from laughing to crying to OH MY MY. Would love to see more of them. Highly recommend, a quick read with all the feels.
I received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest opinion
Overall this is a really cute story and there’s no surprises based off of the storyline. There was a bit of a tangent that happens that almost seemed out of place and unnecessary. Some of verbiage that’s used in this tangent is negative and demeaning in a way that doesn’t go along with the rest of the story. One of the ways the female character is described, is as curvy. However when you get to the tangent, curvy, turns into the demeaning word fat. That was a bit disappointing as it overshadowed the overall feel of the book when you’re over halfway through. It’s a quick read though and if you enjoy the student/teacher relationship, this is definitely a good one to read.
Merrick had his eye on Roxie from the moment he first saw her. He was determined to make her his no matter what. When they first hook up he is completely smitten. He wants to spend every waking moment with her but she backs off because of their student/teacher relationship. When their relationship is exposed Roxie goes radio silent and tries to separate herself when faced with blackmail. When they meet again at graduation I feel Merrick gives in too soon. I would have made her work a little harder for forgiveness but I guess they had already been apart too long. Great happy ending!
I liked this story a lot. It was entertaining and enjoyable although there were times I wanted to smack Roxie upside the head. The characters were interesting and likable for the most part. Jeremy was lame and I wanted him to get some comeuppance. The story is all from Merrick's point of view until the very end. I liked Merrick. He was optimistic and sure that love could prevail over anything. Roxie was more down-to-earth but also kind of negative. I liked how the story ended but I would have liked an epilogue further out. I recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.