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The Love Experiment
He can’t date, she doesn’t date…but what happens when they fall in love?A heartfelt romance that isn’t afraid to tackle serious issues for fans of Ali Hazelwood, Colleen Hoover and all the best ‘Tiktok made me buy it books’!
Dr Lily Galbraith solves her city’s love problems with wisdom and wit every week on her widely popular Love Doctor podcast, but her own approach to romance centres on one staying single. So when a meet-cute in the sauna brings gorgeous Jay Hooper into her life she knows she needs to run the other way.
Having just agreed to a bet with his sister that he’ll stop dating and searching for ‘Mrs Right’ for at least six months, Jay tries to ignore the attraction he feels for Lily, which is only intensified when they find themselves working together.
He can’t date, and she doesn’t date…but then again, rules are made to be broken, aren’t they?
T/ mention of past violence and abuse, PCOS
Readers are already loving The Love ‘Super enjoyable…It does touch on some serious issues which is important to note but I found that Lily and Jay’s story was a lighthearted, feel good romantic comedy’ Porshe
‘Tackles some heavier topics such as domestic abuse and bullying with care…a graceful balance of the fluffy, warm romance and the darker subjects that make this a more realistic read with complex characters – exactly what I look for in my romance books!’ Tassia
‘I adored the sizzle between the main characters Lily and Jay…If you love a quirky tale with some darkness and depth, I thoroughly recommend this’ Anita
‘A lovely rom-com that will appeal to fans of Tessa Bailey or Ali Hazelwood’ Leighton
‘Read in one sitting…totally gripping totally recommend’ Julie
‘The characters are all so charming and have so much love for each other… I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t wait to turn the page and find out what was going to happen next!’ Jaclyn
‘Thoroughly entertaining…Everyone in it is full of life’ Ana
Dr Lily Galbraith solves her city’s love problems with wisdom and wit every week on her widely popular Love Doctor podcast, but her own approach to romance centres on one staying single. So when a meet-cute in the sauna brings gorgeous Jay Hooper into her life she knows she needs to run the other way.
Having just agreed to a bet with his sister that he’ll stop dating and searching for ‘Mrs Right’ for at least six months, Jay tries to ignore the attraction he feels for Lily, which is only intensified when they find themselves working together.
He can’t date, and she doesn’t date…but then again, rules are made to be broken, aren’t they?
T/ mention of past violence and abuse, PCOS
Readers are already loving The Love ‘Super enjoyable…It does touch on some serious issues which is important to note but I found that Lily and Jay’s story was a lighthearted, feel good romantic comedy’ Porshe
‘Tackles some heavier topics such as domestic abuse and bullying with care…a graceful balance of the fluffy, warm romance and the darker subjects that make this a more realistic read with complex characters – exactly what I look for in my romance books!’ Tassia
‘I adored the sizzle between the main characters Lily and Jay…If you love a quirky tale with some darkness and depth, I thoroughly recommend this’ Anita
‘A lovely rom-com that will appeal to fans of Tessa Bailey or Ali Hazelwood’ Leighton
‘Read in one sitting…totally gripping totally recommend’ Julie
‘The characters are all so charming and have so much love for each other… I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t wait to turn the page and find out what was going to happen next!’ Jaclyn
‘Thoroughly entertaining…Everyone in it is full of life’ Ana
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2022
19 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 9, 2022
The Love Experiment by Kitty Wilson is pitched as a rom-com. However, it contains no romance and no comedy. If you are looking for psychotherapy, you also shouldn’t read this book because it reads like psychotherapy but there’s nothing therapeutic about it.
If you read this, prepare yourself for an extremely traumatic description of Lily (the female protagonist) – as a teenager – getting tied up by a group of young men and just barely avoiding what one has to assume would have been a gang rape. All I can say about this is that it is horrifying, handled extremely poorly by the author and traumatizes the reader without building to a healthy conclusion that gives us necessary relief from that really dreadful experience.
In fact, Lily – a literal therapist – dismisses her sexual assault as not a big deal. WTAF?! This character is supposed to be an incredible therapist who has a podcast about sexual health and yet she describes her own sexual assault as not a big deal? Awful. In every respect.
Now that I’m on my soapbox, here are a couple other problematic elements. First, let’s talk about the way the author handles Lily’s polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis. Lily – remember, she’s a therapist! – hates herself because of her PCOS. She has disordered eating and drinking. Her negative self-talk is constant and destructive. She requires near Herculean coddling during her menstrual cycles and she’s verbally abusive while she experiences her cramps and bleeding.
Next … for a sexual health therapist, she has a big problem respecting the sexual boundaries of her male love interest, Jay. He tells her that he can’t have sex with her and she actually seduces him into sex. Rom-coms that feature non-consensual relationships are a big NOPE for me. No means no, regardless of the amount of lust in the room. We won’t talk about how she handles the post-sex relationship which is so full of red flags it could be a post on Reddit.
I’m also not going to address how incredibly selfish Lily is and how mean she is to the people who care about her. To do so would require me to think more about this book and I just can’t stand to put any more energy into dissecting why this book is so terribly depressing to read. There’s no love in this book. There’s no affection in this book. It’s just … ugh.
Putting all that aside, the book is difficult to read for another reason. The author loves long sentences – like full paragraph length. However, at least in this book, she seems to be using a keyboard that lacks working punctuation keys. There are few commas, few periods, and almost no semicolons. You might asphyxiate if you try to read this aloud.
And finally, the author has written this as a first person narrative, switching between protagonists. Unlike other authors, though, she doesn’t tell us readers that she’s switched between Lily and Jay. You’ll eventually figure it out and then you’ll have to re-read because it’s very confusing and easy to get lost.
In summary, this book is toxic and depressing and hard to read. It wasn’t funny. It wasn’t romantic. I will never, ever read it again. And I wouldn’t recommend it to a moldering corpse.
I received a digital arc from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
https://bookbuzzblog.com/2022/07/09/d...
If you read this, prepare yourself for an extremely traumatic description of Lily (the female protagonist) – as a teenager – getting tied up by a group of young men and just barely avoiding what one has to assume would have been a gang rape. All I can say about this is that it is horrifying, handled extremely poorly by the author and traumatizes the reader without building to a healthy conclusion that gives us necessary relief from that really dreadful experience.
In fact, Lily – a literal therapist – dismisses her sexual assault as not a big deal. WTAF?! This character is supposed to be an incredible therapist who has a podcast about sexual health and yet she describes her own sexual assault as not a big deal? Awful. In every respect.
Now that I’m on my soapbox, here are a couple other problematic elements. First, let’s talk about the way the author handles Lily’s polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis. Lily – remember, she’s a therapist! – hates herself because of her PCOS. She has disordered eating and drinking. Her negative self-talk is constant and destructive. She requires near Herculean coddling during her menstrual cycles and she’s verbally abusive while she experiences her cramps and bleeding.
Next … for a sexual health therapist, she has a big problem respecting the sexual boundaries of her male love interest, Jay. He tells her that he can’t have sex with her and she actually seduces him into sex. Rom-coms that feature non-consensual relationships are a big NOPE for me. No means no, regardless of the amount of lust in the room. We won’t talk about how she handles the post-sex relationship which is so full of red flags it could be a post on Reddit.
I’m also not going to address how incredibly selfish Lily is and how mean she is to the people who care about her. To do so would require me to think more about this book and I just can’t stand to put any more energy into dissecting why this book is so terribly depressing to read. There’s no love in this book. There’s no affection in this book. It’s just … ugh.
Putting all that aside, the book is difficult to read for another reason. The author loves long sentences – like full paragraph length. However, at least in this book, she seems to be using a keyboard that lacks working punctuation keys. There are few commas, few periods, and almost no semicolons. You might asphyxiate if you try to read this aloud.
And finally, the author has written this as a first person narrative, switching between protagonists. Unlike other authors, though, she doesn’t tell us readers that she’s switched between Lily and Jay. You’ll eventually figure it out and then you’ll have to re-read because it’s very confusing and easy to get lost.
In summary, this book is toxic and depressing and hard to read. It wasn’t funny. It wasn’t romantic. I will never, ever read it again. And I wouldn’t recommend it to a moldering corpse.
I received a digital arc from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
https://bookbuzzblog.com/2022/07/09/d...
July 14, 2022
The Love Experiment by Kitty Wilson is such a fun read! I found myself laughing out loud while reading the beginning of the book on the beach! The sauna meet up is too funny! I won't spoil it, but you're gonna laugh hard! I really enjoyed the writing style, pace of the book, and the characters! The book revolves around Lily the Love Doctor, her friends, and Jay, the man she meets in the sauna. The book will give you all the feels as you wait to see if Jay and Lily can overcome their past to begin a new future together. Jay and his sister Cassie had a rough childhood until they found the perfect foster home, so it's hard for Jay to trust people. Lily was teased as a teen and experienced a traumatic event from those years. It's very hard for her to be vulnerable and really commit to someone long term. Will Jay and Lily be able to work through their issues? You'll have to read the book and find out!
I really enjoyed Lily's roommate and best friend, Kevin, who is gay and does a drag queen act at the local bar. The storyline between Kevin and his boyfriend Dan is fantastic! Kevin has never told his parents he's gay as he doesn't think they'll approve. Kevin's parents come to visit as he is preparing for the biggest drag queen competition of the year. Will they figure out what their son is up to? Will they approve or be mortified? Will Kevin finally come out to them?
I highly recommend The Love Experiment and think anyone would enjoy reading it! Any book that makes you laugh out loud and gives you all the feels is a book I'm excited to read! Be sure to pick this book up on July 15, 2022. Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an advanced copy in exchange for a fair review.
I really enjoyed Lily's roommate and best friend, Kevin, who is gay and does a drag queen act at the local bar. The storyline between Kevin and his boyfriend Dan is fantastic! Kevin has never told his parents he's gay as he doesn't think they'll approve. Kevin's parents come to visit as he is preparing for the biggest drag queen competition of the year. Will they figure out what their son is up to? Will they approve or be mortified? Will Kevin finally come out to them?
I highly recommend The Love Experiment and think anyone would enjoy reading it! Any book that makes you laugh out loud and gives you all the feels is a book I'm excited to read! Be sure to pick this book up on July 15, 2022. Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an advanced copy in exchange for a fair review.
September 11, 2022
✅️ RomCom
✅️ Dual POV
✅️ LGBTQ +
✅️ Standalone
⚠️ Bullying (past tense)
Dr. Lily Galbraith, The Love Doctor, has a podcast and tries to reach out to people with advice that wouldn't necessarily be able to reach her. She is single and enjoying the single life!
Jacob (Jay) Cooper runs a community city youth program and falls in love too easily. So he and his sister have a bet going where he is to be single for 6 months.... see where this is going?
Nope!
Drag Queens 👸 They steal the show and I. WAS. HERE. FOR. IT! 👏👏
So funny!!! I loved Lily's gay best friend Kevin/High Jinx so much! 🤩🏳️🌈
Overall, a cute read with some underlying therapy. ❤️ Would recommend reading! 📖
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this eARC!
✅️ Dual POV
✅️ LGBTQ +
✅️ Standalone
⚠️ Bullying (past tense)
Dr. Lily Galbraith, The Love Doctor, has a podcast and tries to reach out to people with advice that wouldn't necessarily be able to reach her. She is single and enjoying the single life!
Jacob (Jay) Cooper runs a community city youth program and falls in love too easily. So he and his sister have a bet going where he is to be single for 6 months.... see where this is going?
Nope!
Drag Queens 👸 They steal the show and I. WAS. HERE. FOR. IT! 👏👏
So funny!!! I loved Lily's gay best friend Kevin/High Jinx so much! 🤩🏳️🌈
Overall, a cute read with some underlying therapy. ❤️ Would recommend reading! 📖
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this eARC!
June 22, 2022
This was adorable, fun and sweet read! I have a smile most of the time and adored both characters plus the secondary! It’s fast paced!
January 28, 2023
I honestly don’t know how to rate this because I truly disliked it.
The way its written, the way the plot is being built… Not one thing was okay-ish for me.
No romance, no comedy, just not enjoyable.
This is very late but I received this as an arc from NetGalley in return of my honest review.
The way its written, the way the plot is being built… Not one thing was okay-ish for me.
No romance, no comedy, just not enjoyable.
This is very late but I received this as an arc from NetGalley in return of my honest review.
August 2, 2022
Oh, I really, really enjoyed this one!
Lilly is “The Love Doctor” (and therapist) and hosts a podcast giving love and relationship advice, despite being a bit of a commitment-phobe and only partaking in one night stands to guard herself. Lilly also has PCOS and trauma from bullying because of her condition in her youth has closed her off from finding love.
Jay and his sister Cassie were in the foster care system after the passing of their father being raised by some really good people. While their parents are on an extended holiday, they transfer their membership to The Lido, a private, expensive fitness center to Jay and Cassie. Right before this Cassie has bet Jay he can’t stop dating for six months, as he’s constantly dating many women on the search for the perfect wife.
Jay meets Lilly at The Lido and they have such a fun first meeting where Jay tells an embarrassing story and their chemistry is off the charts. Lilly asks him out the next time they’re both there but he politely declined while telling her he wants to say yes. Their friendship grows from there as they begin working together with a youth program Jay works with.
Kevin aka Hi Jinks the drag queen was a DELIGHT. Absolute best friend goals, who was supportive and kind and put Lilly in her place when needed. He gets a lovely romance and is just a great character.
I didn’t like how Lilly’s PCOS was handled at times, she was a size 16/18 at her largest and she called herself huge (when this is barely larger than average for American women) and her negative self talk was super damaging and confusing when she acknowledged that many other women with PCOS can’t lose the weight that she had. For a therapist, Lilly I felt should be more empathetic especially in this instance.
TW for sexual assault and abuse.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this story despite its flaws; 4 stars!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank You to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lilly is “The Love Doctor” (and therapist) and hosts a podcast giving love and relationship advice, despite being a bit of a commitment-phobe and only partaking in one night stands to guard herself. Lilly also has PCOS and trauma from bullying because of her condition in her youth has closed her off from finding love.
Jay and his sister Cassie were in the foster care system after the passing of their father being raised by some really good people. While their parents are on an extended holiday, they transfer their membership to The Lido, a private, expensive fitness center to Jay and Cassie. Right before this Cassie has bet Jay he can’t stop dating for six months, as he’s constantly dating many women on the search for the perfect wife.
Jay meets Lilly at The Lido and they have such a fun first meeting where Jay tells an embarrassing story and their chemistry is off the charts. Lilly asks him out the next time they’re both there but he politely declined while telling her he wants to say yes. Their friendship grows from there as they begin working together with a youth program Jay works with.
Kevin aka Hi Jinks the drag queen was a DELIGHT. Absolute best friend goals, who was supportive and kind and put Lilly in her place when needed. He gets a lovely romance and is just a great character.
I didn’t like how Lilly’s PCOS was handled at times, she was a size 16/18 at her largest and she called herself huge (when this is barely larger than average for American women) and her negative self talk was super damaging and confusing when she acknowledged that many other women with PCOS can’t lose the weight that she had. For a therapist, Lilly I felt should be more empathetic especially in this instance.
TW for sexual assault and abuse.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this story despite its flaws; 4 stars!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank You to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2022
3.75-4
This was such an enjoyable and sweet read. The pace is nice and the story is easy to follow.
I really liked both the MC’s, but the cherry on top were the side characters as well.
The Love-experiment is a sweet contemporary romance but it doesn’t stop there. It touches on serious subjects as well, such as PCOS, infertility, coming out and abusive relationships. These subjects are all handled with care and it is well written.
Lily is the "love doctor” our relationship expert. Althoug, she hooks up, she is afraid of commitment. She has PCOS and knows having a family in the future will be very challenging, and that’s a reason for the fear of commitment. Jay, a great guy, who truly wants to find the one, but every date leaves him disappointed, no one lives up to his expectations. Jay dreams of starting a family and having children one day. However, after many disappointments and helping his sister, Jay decides to take a break and be chaste for six months. We all know what that means.
"He can’t date, she doesn’t date…but what happens when they fall in love?"
Once again this book brought up serious issues throughout the storyline, which can be heavy. It was a lot for a summer read romance, but it was done very well so I enjoyed it. If the subject matter may trigger you or you may not like it. Then this book isn’t for you. Other than that this was a cute read that I liked. It leaves you not only with a romance book but it leaves you with some food for thought.
An epilogue would have been nice though :)
Thanks to NetGalley, And Harper Collins, One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was such an enjoyable and sweet read. The pace is nice and the story is easy to follow.
I really liked both the MC’s, but the cherry on top were the side characters as well.
The Love-experiment is a sweet contemporary romance but it doesn’t stop there. It touches on serious subjects as well, such as PCOS, infertility, coming out and abusive relationships. These subjects are all handled with care and it is well written.
Lily is the "love doctor” our relationship expert. Althoug, she hooks up, she is afraid of commitment. She has PCOS and knows having a family in the future will be very challenging, and that’s a reason for the fear of commitment. Jay, a great guy, who truly wants to find the one, but every date leaves him disappointed, no one lives up to his expectations. Jay dreams of starting a family and having children one day. However, after many disappointments and helping his sister, Jay decides to take a break and be chaste for six months. We all know what that means.
"He can’t date, she doesn’t date…but what happens when they fall in love?"
Once again this book brought up serious issues throughout the storyline, which can be heavy. It was a lot for a summer read romance, but it was done very well so I enjoyed it. If the subject matter may trigger you or you may not like it. Then this book isn’t for you. Other than that this was a cute read that I liked. It leaves you not only with a romance book but it leaves you with some food for thought.
An epilogue would have been nice though :)
Thanks to NetGalley, And Harper Collins, One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2022
I really hate it when I dislike a book because it means a negative review… here goes:
I wouldn’t say I enjoyed it, but I didn’t hate it? there were many many issues within this book and overall I would not recommend it to anyone.
pros first:
the novel was split into lily’s pov (the female mc) and jay’s pov (the male mc) which I always like. it was interesting to read their contrasting views and opinions.
there were lots of lovely characters such as Kevin (a star, icon, he is the moment 😌) he was by far my favourite and I thoroughly enjoyed his journey and story, overcoming his fears and insecurities to love and live his best life. I learnt more about Drag Queens and their role in exploring gender, which I did not really know or understand before. the LGBTQA+ representation was one of the main threads within the story.
I particularly liked this line about overcoming doubts and struggles.
“I’m sorry for doubting you and letting my insecurities shape my fears”
Kevin’s relationship with Dan was lovely to read and I was more invested in their story than the main plot itself.
Moving on, Jay’s character was written really well and I liked the dynamic between him and his sister, it was nice to see how much he admired, respected and loved her.
okay now the cons:
I did not like Lily’s character - she was selfish and annoying. it was unpleasant to read about someone hurting and behaving in a harmful and negative way to the people they love, even if it was fictional. she heavily disliked herself due to her PCOS diagnosis and it was uncomfortable to read her pov’s chapters. they consisted of constant negative self talk towards herself , verbal abuse towards others while menstruating and eating and drinking in a disordered way.
it was a strange way to portray these things and I didn’t like the way it was written.
it was not a rom-com as there was not much romance or comedy at all. lily and jay’s relationship was screaming red flags and was quite confusing and strange to be frank.
I received a digital arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I wouldn’t say I enjoyed it, but I didn’t hate it? there were many many issues within this book and overall I would not recommend it to anyone.
pros first:
the novel was split into lily’s pov (the female mc) and jay’s pov (the male mc) which I always like. it was interesting to read their contrasting views and opinions.
there were lots of lovely characters such as Kevin (a star, icon, he is the moment 😌) he was by far my favourite and I thoroughly enjoyed his journey and story, overcoming his fears and insecurities to love and live his best life. I learnt more about Drag Queens and their role in exploring gender, which I did not really know or understand before. the LGBTQA+ representation was one of the main threads within the story.
I particularly liked this line about overcoming doubts and struggles.
“I’m sorry for doubting you and letting my insecurities shape my fears”
Kevin’s relationship with Dan was lovely to read and I was more invested in their story than the main plot itself.
Moving on, Jay’s character was written really well and I liked the dynamic between him and his sister, it was nice to see how much he admired, respected and loved her.
okay now the cons:
I did not like Lily’s character - she was selfish and annoying. it was unpleasant to read about someone hurting and behaving in a harmful and negative way to the people they love, even if it was fictional. she heavily disliked herself due to her PCOS diagnosis and it was uncomfortable to read her pov’s chapters. they consisted of constant negative self talk towards herself , verbal abuse towards others while menstruating and eating and drinking in a disordered way.
it was a strange way to portray these things and I didn’t like the way it was written.
it was not a rom-com as there was not much romance or comedy at all. lily and jay’s relationship was screaming red flags and was quite confusing and strange to be frank.
I received a digital arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My Selling Pitch:
No pitch, do not read this. It is toxic and actively harmful.
Pre-reading:
I’ve seen one piece of a review for this book, and if it’s correct, I am so ready to rip this thing to shreds alongside her
Thick of it:
You know even in a romance book, I don’t expect to see cum on the first page.
Oh good, it’s going to be another watch the author flex her vocabulary book.
I don’t wanna read this. This is so unhealthy already.
I hate it here. I’m on page 37. Do not read this book.
Too many cats in romcoms.
What’s the female version of an incel because it’s this.
Oh good, disordered eating described as healthy behavior.
Tell me you want to fuck your sister more, sir.
He dm-ed you. You would see his profile pic.
Fuck the romcom no makeup superiority shit.
This book is so unhealthy.
No kink-shaming she claims. Then shames an innocent one.
This book is disgusting and harmful and the author should be ashamed.
Alpha girls??? Shut the fuck up.
Wouldn’t oil cling to a spoon?
This author makes me so angry. Fuck you very much. There is no pain or shame that comes with having a larger body; it’s just your body. Be nice to it, and stop hating it.
This character is so unhealthy and such a fuckhead. She has no business being a therapist if she’s this ill herself.
This is the most inappropriate sibling relationship. Don’t put your sister’s face on your underwear?
That is not what a date is, you fucking predator.
So much toxic author insertion in this book.
This book isn’t even just bad. It’s so actively harmful that it shouldn’t be published.
Hi sorry, no means no. Don’t harass this man into sleeping with you when he’s told you no.
You can literally still have children. I don’t get why this is a problem. Like just foster some kids, adopt, have IVF. There are so many fucking options. Don’t be a fucking twat. Deeply offensive to people with their own fertility struggles and harmful to the kids in foster systems to not consider them a family’s real children because you didn’t squeeze them out of your vag.
I know they’ve told us she’s abusive, but I haven’t seen any abusive behavior from this character other than the fact that they’re a couple and have different interests. That’s fine.
Not a fucking scooter, oh my god.
There is nothing wrong with those girls. You don’t have to put down other women to lift yourself up. You’re not superior for being a tomboy and not liking makeup and clothing.
Nancy Drew taught me the word Titian for hair, but I’m it’s such a weird thing.
This book is really fixated on the coccyx. (I type my reviews with voice texting, and I am absolutely shocked that it understood that word.)
I feel like an insecure control freak with an eating disorder is definitely wearing shapewear, so where is all that?
Girl, wash your face. You’re 30.
If I got those messages, I would be terrified.
This book is so preachy, but only preaches toxicity
Post-reading:
This book has no business being published.
You can't just throw in attempted child gang rape with zero consequences to the character who is supposed to be a sex therapist. Bitch needs her own therapist.
This book is full of disordered eating, body image issues, and fertility struggles, but don’t worry, they're all portrayed as reasonable, justified, and healthy, and absolutely not something that the protagonist should fix.
She continuously tries to out her best friend against his wishes.
And yet the book portrays all these characters as admirable people whom the reader should take advice from. Fucking toxic and actively harmful.
Who should read this:
No one
Do I want to reread this:
No
Similar books:
* The Seduction Expert by Saya Lopez Ortega-terrible book about a love guru
* The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez-rom-com with fertility struggles
My Selling Pitch:
No pitch, do not read this. It is toxic and actively harmful.
Pre-reading:
I’ve seen one piece of a review for this book, and if it’s correct, I am so ready to rip this thing to shreds alongside her
Thick of it:
You know even in a romance book, I don’t expect to see cum on the first page.
Oh good, it’s going to be another watch the author flex her vocabulary book.
I don’t wanna read this. This is so unhealthy already.
I hate it here. I’m on page 37. Do not read this book.
Too many cats in romcoms.
What’s the female version of an incel because it’s this.
Oh good, disordered eating described as healthy behavior.
Tell me you want to fuck your sister more, sir.
He dm-ed you. You would see his profile pic.
Fuck the romcom no makeup superiority shit.
This book is so unhealthy.
No kink-shaming she claims. Then shames an innocent one.
This book is disgusting and harmful and the author should be ashamed.
Alpha girls??? Shut the fuck up.
Wouldn’t oil cling to a spoon?
This author makes me so angry. Fuck you very much. There is no pain or shame that comes with having a larger body; it’s just your body. Be nice to it, and stop hating it.
This character is so unhealthy and such a fuckhead. She has no business being a therapist if she’s this ill herself.
This is the most inappropriate sibling relationship. Don’t put your sister’s face on your underwear?
That is not what a date is, you fucking predator.
So much toxic author insertion in this book.
This book isn’t even just bad. It’s so actively harmful that it shouldn’t be published.
Hi sorry, no means no. Don’t harass this man into sleeping with you when he’s told you no.
You can literally still have children. I don’t get why this is a problem. Like just foster some kids, adopt, have IVF. There are so many fucking options. Don’t be a fucking twat. Deeply offensive to people with their own fertility struggles and harmful to the kids in foster systems to not consider them a family’s real children because you didn’t squeeze them out of your vag.
I know they’ve told us she’s abusive, but I haven’t seen any abusive behavior from this character other than the fact that they’re a couple and have different interests. That’s fine.
Not a fucking scooter, oh my god.
There is nothing wrong with those girls. You don’t have to put down other women to lift yourself up. You’re not superior for being a tomboy and not liking makeup and clothing.
Nancy Drew taught me the word Titian for hair, but I’m it’s such a weird thing.
This book is really fixated on the coccyx. (I type my reviews with voice texting, and I am absolutely shocked that it understood that word.)
I feel like an insecure control freak with an eating disorder is definitely wearing shapewear, so where is all that?
Girl, wash your face. You’re 30.
If I got those messages, I would be terrified.
This book is so preachy, but only preaches toxicity
Post-reading:
This book has no business being published.
You can't just throw in attempted child gang rape with zero consequences to the character who is supposed to be a sex therapist. Bitch needs her own therapist.
This book is full of disordered eating, body image issues, and fertility struggles, but don’t worry, they're all portrayed as reasonable, justified, and healthy, and absolutely not something that the protagonist should fix.
She continuously tries to out her best friend against his wishes.
And yet the book portrays all these characters as admirable people whom the reader should take advice from. Fucking toxic and actively harmful.
Who should read this:
No one
Do I want to reread this:
No
Similar books:
* The Seduction Expert by Saya Lopez Ortega-terrible book about a love guru
* The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez-rom-com with fertility struggles
July 22, 2022
I could not really relate to the main character, as in my view there were many things that did not make sense. The incident in her teen years was downplayed, and her refusal to sick proper medical assistance was also weird for a therapist, and that annoyed me.
However the supporting characters were very funny and rich, and made a very good addiction to the plot. I liked them better than the main couple.
However the supporting characters were very funny and rich, and made a very good addiction to the plot. I liked them better than the main couple.
July 27, 2022
A sweet romance with lots of layers. There are fun moments, sad moments, and emotional moments too. Enjoyed it.
July 15, 2022
Firstly I’d like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC ❤️😘
I’m not going to beat around the bush as to why I’ve DNF’ed this book. As a plus sized woman, I feel that it’s totally obsessed with weight, talking about food, dieting, going to the pool and swimming and being skinny like it’s the only way to have a positive life. It’s totally made me feel uncomfortable and I’ve got up to 21% on my kindle and still feel that way.
I don’t know if the meaning and point changes later in the story but I’m not sticking around to find out. It’s made me sad to read about a totally shallow female who’s super fatphoblic.
The queer representation is brilliant though and for that I’m giving ⭐️
I’m not going to beat around the bush as to why I’ve DNF’ed this book. As a plus sized woman, I feel that it’s totally obsessed with weight, talking about food, dieting, going to the pool and swimming and being skinny like it’s the only way to have a positive life. It’s totally made me feel uncomfortable and I’ve got up to 21% on my kindle and still feel that way.
I don’t know if the meaning and point changes later in the story but I’m not sticking around to find out. It’s made me sad to read about a totally shallow female who’s super fatphoblic.
The queer representation is brilliant though and for that I’m giving ⭐️
July 16, 2022
This turned out to be not the book for me. I contemplated DNFing it more than once but ended up pushing through to the end. While I appreciated the author’s inclusion of a FMC who has PCOS and supporting character who is a drag queen, the story itself was underwhelming. The tone of the book felt didactic at points, and overly serious and heavy. The book had almost no steam. Literally one scene. The journey from strangers to love felt too instant. The FMC for being a sex and relationship therapist was truly clueless.
I appreciate NetGalley, One More Chapter, and Harper Collins giving me an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I appreciate NetGalley, One More Chapter, and Harper Collins giving me an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 25, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed Kitty Wilson's previous book, so was thrilled to be given the chance to read her latest release.
The Love Experiment is an easy-to-read contemporary romance book, which touches on several serious issues, such as abusive relationships, infertility and PCOS, as well as the fear of 'coming out' within, too.
"He can’t date, she doesn’t date…but what happens when they fall in love?"
Lily is an expert in all aspects of relationships. Such an expert that she is the Love Doctor with her own guidance podcast, on top of her day job as a real Dr. of relationships. Except she finds it extremely hard to commit, given her own medical history. As a sufferer of PCOS, she knows her chances of ever being a mum are extremely low.
Jay just wants to find the one. In fact, he seems to view everyone he decided to date as possibly the one until they disappoint him by not living up to his expectations.
He's forced to take a break, in order to deal with some issues surrounding his younger sister's relationship. and in doing so, vows chastity for six months.
And you know what is going to happen... as soon as you make a decision like that, you know that certain someone is going to come galloping into your life...
They are both lovely characters in their own right and have issues to contend with before they can see the wood for the trees.
I loved Jay's character. Such a kind, considerate man, with everyone's feelings at the forefront of his mind. There were times I fancied shaking Lily to make her realise she should be going with her gut instinct.
Thankfully I didn't have to as the cast of side characters were there to do the very thing I wanted. Not least of all Keith, or High Jinx, Lily's best friend and drag queen, who is still in the closet to his parents, and Cassie, a sassy sixteen-year-old, who only wants the best for her mentor, Jay.
I whizzed through this in a day and it is definitely a feel-good read with some added layers of seriousness, providing food for thought.
Many thanks to NetGalley, And Harper Collins, One More Chapter for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Love Experiment is an easy-to-read contemporary romance book, which touches on several serious issues, such as abusive relationships, infertility and PCOS, as well as the fear of 'coming out' within, too.
"He can’t date, she doesn’t date…but what happens when they fall in love?"
Lily is an expert in all aspects of relationships. Such an expert that she is the Love Doctor with her own guidance podcast, on top of her day job as a real Dr. of relationships. Except she finds it extremely hard to commit, given her own medical history. As a sufferer of PCOS, she knows her chances of ever being a mum are extremely low.
Jay just wants to find the one. In fact, he seems to view everyone he decided to date as possibly the one until they disappoint him by not living up to his expectations.
He's forced to take a break, in order to deal with some issues surrounding his younger sister's relationship. and in doing so, vows chastity for six months.
And you know what is going to happen... as soon as you make a decision like that, you know that certain someone is going to come galloping into your life...
They are both lovely characters in their own right and have issues to contend with before they can see the wood for the trees.
I loved Jay's character. Such a kind, considerate man, with everyone's feelings at the forefront of his mind. There were times I fancied shaking Lily to make her realise she should be going with her gut instinct.
Thankfully I didn't have to as the cast of side characters were there to do the very thing I wanted. Not least of all Keith, or High Jinx, Lily's best friend and drag queen, who is still in the closet to his parents, and Cassie, a sassy sixteen-year-old, who only wants the best for her mentor, Jay.
I whizzed through this in a day and it is definitely a feel-good read with some added layers of seriousness, providing food for thought.
Many thanks to NetGalley, And Harper Collins, One More Chapter for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins, One More Chapter for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Love Experiment is best described as Emily Henry meets Beth O’Leary, it was sweet, very addictive and overall an extremely enjoyable read! I cant wait to read more from this author.
Dr Lily Galbraith solves the problems of others surrounding both themselves and those that they love through her growing podcast. However, she feels that in order to focus on her role and avoid being let down, that she must stay single. This is until she meets Jay, who ironically has just made a pact with his sister that he won’t date anyone for at-least six months, because of this, things get interesting and rules are broken.
One of my favourite things about contemporary romances is how easy they are to read alongside having an enjoyable plot. This book ticked both these boxes, with added points for likeable main characters and touching storylines for the side characters.
Whilst this is a sweet contemporary romance, The Love Experiment also brings up a few sensitive topics such as infertility and serious bullying. When first approaching these topics, I thought that this book may be too heavy for me as someone who enjoys light hearted romances. However, this was not the case, the author was able to write these topics extremely well without making the book difficult to read. Each topic was handled with extreme care and made this book, in my opinion, even better.
The attraction between the two main characters was undeniable, to the point I found myself frustrated in the best possible way when the rules they set for themselves came in the way of their relationship. Overall, this was a great summer read and is a contemporary romance that I will remember for a long time. The advice given in the book in the form of Lily’s “podcast” really had me thinking and I’m sure it will for others too. The only negative thought I have regarding this book is that I would’ve loved to see a little romance between these two in an epilogue, but, consider me satisfied!
The Love Experiment is best described as Emily Henry meets Beth O’Leary, it was sweet, very addictive and overall an extremely enjoyable read! I cant wait to read more from this author.
Dr Lily Galbraith solves the problems of others surrounding both themselves and those that they love through her growing podcast. However, she feels that in order to focus on her role and avoid being let down, that she must stay single. This is until she meets Jay, who ironically has just made a pact with his sister that he won’t date anyone for at-least six months, because of this, things get interesting and rules are broken.
One of my favourite things about contemporary romances is how easy they are to read alongside having an enjoyable plot. This book ticked both these boxes, with added points for likeable main characters and touching storylines for the side characters.
Whilst this is a sweet contemporary romance, The Love Experiment also brings up a few sensitive topics such as infertility and serious bullying. When first approaching these topics, I thought that this book may be too heavy for me as someone who enjoys light hearted romances. However, this was not the case, the author was able to write these topics extremely well without making the book difficult to read. Each topic was handled with extreme care and made this book, in my opinion, even better.
The attraction between the two main characters was undeniable, to the point I found myself frustrated in the best possible way when the rules they set for themselves came in the way of their relationship. Overall, this was a great summer read and is a contemporary romance that I will remember for a long time. The advice given in the book in the form of Lily’s “podcast” really had me thinking and I’m sure it will for others too. The only negative thought I have regarding this book is that I would’ve loved to see a little romance between these two in an epilogue, but, consider me satisfied!
August 9, 2022
Would have given it 10 stars if I could!
Billed as ‘a heartfelt romance that isn’t afraid to tackle serious issues’, The Love Experiment is an absolute gem, even with those very real-life problems.
There’s more than one well-played out romance and gorgeous underlying sexual tension a-plenty in Kitty Wilson’s latest, but it’s so much more than that.
This is a definite ‘don’t want to put it down’ read, and I’m not going to regurgitate any of the plot. The blurb is sufficient to set you on your way. This review is from the heart, having just finished reading, with a smile on my face and a tear in my eye.
This is NOW. Current. Real. This is a book that, for some, will entertain, but there will be those for whom it touches close to home. Be warned, some of the characters are dealing with some genuinely serious matters.
And it’s a fabulous cast of characters: Dr Lily, who’s so in denial about herself; Jay, probably the most lovely book boyfriend you could wish for; funny, fabulous Jinx and her fellow Queens (the names will have you spitting out your cofffee); the lovely, supportive Dan; fun and hilarious Cassie; the girls from the project; Kevin’s parents... every single one perfectly drawn, totally real and even those living a life nothing like your own, completely relatable characters.
No. Not characters. People. These are real people. They could be our colleagues or neighbours. Our friends. Family. I’d spend time with them any day of the week!
Any heartfelt romance with a curtain-trashing kitten and a reference to Paddington’s hard stare is going to be a win with me, but The Love Experiment is WAY more. It’s a novel for our times, a story of hope, brimming with humour but not shying from the issues faced by many people in their daily lives.
Superbly written. A Kitty Wilson novel to treasure. Highly recommend.
If you only read one book this year, make it this one.
Billed as ‘a heartfelt romance that isn’t afraid to tackle serious issues’, The Love Experiment is an absolute gem, even with those very real-life problems.
There’s more than one well-played out romance and gorgeous underlying sexual tension a-plenty in Kitty Wilson’s latest, but it’s so much more than that.
This is a definite ‘don’t want to put it down’ read, and I’m not going to regurgitate any of the plot. The blurb is sufficient to set you on your way. This review is from the heart, having just finished reading, with a smile on my face and a tear in my eye.
This is NOW. Current. Real. This is a book that, for some, will entertain, but there will be those for whom it touches close to home. Be warned, some of the characters are dealing with some genuinely serious matters.
And it’s a fabulous cast of characters: Dr Lily, who’s so in denial about herself; Jay, probably the most lovely book boyfriend you could wish for; funny, fabulous Jinx and her fellow Queens (the names will have you spitting out your cofffee); the lovely, supportive Dan; fun and hilarious Cassie; the girls from the project; Kevin’s parents... every single one perfectly drawn, totally real and even those living a life nothing like your own, completely relatable characters.
No. Not characters. People. These are real people. They could be our colleagues or neighbours. Our friends. Family. I’d spend time with them any day of the week!
Any heartfelt romance with a curtain-trashing kitten and a reference to Paddington’s hard stare is going to be a win with me, but The Love Experiment is WAY more. It’s a novel for our times, a story of hope, brimming with humour but not shying from the issues faced by many people in their daily lives.
Superbly written. A Kitty Wilson novel to treasure. Highly recommend.
If you only read one book this year, make it this one.
July 14, 2022
Jay and Lily have a meet cute in a sauna that involves Jay sharing way too much with a stranger. Jay needs to stay out of a relationship after placing a bet with his sister. And Lily doesn’t want a relationship at all. Their instant attraction is obvious but they can’t pursue what it leads to.
I wanted to love this book but it was really hard with the writing style. The switching POVs made the story really hard to follow. The pace was also very fast, so that definitely didn’t help with the changing perspectives. The flow also seemed off to me and it made it really hard for me to concentrate on what was going because all I was trying to do was concentrate on understanding.
Additionally, there was too much going on in this book. So many social issues too away from the actual love story. This book doesn’t really fall under the romance genre, there is too much to unpack for it to be a light romance read. It really wasn’t for me since I was looking for a fluffy read, which is the impression I was under when I went into it.
I do think many others can read this book happily, as long as they are prepared for a jam-packed contemporary book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
I wanted to love this book but it was really hard with the writing style. The switching POVs made the story really hard to follow. The pace was also very fast, so that definitely didn’t help with the changing perspectives. The flow also seemed off to me and it made it really hard for me to concentrate on what was going because all I was trying to do was concentrate on understanding.
Additionally, there was too much going on in this book. So many social issues too away from the actual love story. This book doesn’t really fall under the romance genre, there is too much to unpack for it to be a light romance read. It really wasn’t for me since I was looking for a fluffy read, which is the impression I was under when I went into it.
I do think many others can read this book happily, as long as they are prepared for a jam-packed contemporary book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2022
Thank you Harper Collins, One more chapter for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really wanted to love this book but I didn’t work for me unfortunately. I liked that Lily, the female main character, is a sex and relationship psychologist. I love the fact that she is very independent and a hard working women.
Unfortunately the style of writing was a no go for me. I found the sudden switches in the point of views very confusing. I would have liked the story better when these switches where marked at the chapter title for example. The lack of this makes the book very difficult to read.
Also I found some topics in this book quite heavy. Personally I don’t have a really big problem with that but, I think the book has a wrong description. The book is introduced as a book for fans of Ali hazelwood and Emily Henry. I don’t think this book suits this genre. I think the book would suit better if there is a little less therapy in it.
In conclusion I think this book would have more potential if the point of view changes were more clear and there were a little less therapy topics in it. For now it wasn’t my cup of tea.
I really wanted to love this book but I didn’t work for me unfortunately. I liked that Lily, the female main character, is a sex and relationship psychologist. I love the fact that she is very independent and a hard working women.
Unfortunately the style of writing was a no go for me. I found the sudden switches in the point of views very confusing. I would have liked the story better when these switches where marked at the chapter title for example. The lack of this makes the book very difficult to read.
Also I found some topics in this book quite heavy. Personally I don’t have a really big problem with that but, I think the book has a wrong description. The book is introduced as a book for fans of Ali hazelwood and Emily Henry. I don’t think this book suits this genre. I think the book would suit better if there is a little less therapy in it.
In conclusion I think this book would have more potential if the point of view changes were more clear and there were a little less therapy topics in it. For now it wasn’t my cup of tea.
July 19, 2022
Despite being a relationship psychologist, Lily doesn’t date. It seems like the perfect coincidence when she meets Jay, who can’t date because of a bet with his sister.
I was so intrigued by the premise of this book but there were quite a few things that prevented me from enjoying this book sadly.
I struggled to read the author’s description of Lily’s blatant disordered eating habits without any recognition of them as such. I could see the way the book discusses rigid eating patterns/control as being quite triggering for some and would advise caution.
I also struggled with the rationale that Lily offered for not dating and the message it sent. It seemed that the writer was voicing that people with PCOS can’t date because they might have issues with infertility and that it would be unfair to their potential partners.
This was very nearly a DNF for me but I continued reading in hopes that Lily would have a redemption arc but was sadly disappointed.
I appreciated the attempt at PCOS, LGBTQIA2S+, and infertility representation.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the advanced reading copy in return for my honest review!
I was so intrigued by the premise of this book but there were quite a few things that prevented me from enjoying this book sadly.
I struggled to read the author’s description of Lily’s blatant disordered eating habits without any recognition of them as such. I could see the way the book discusses rigid eating patterns/control as being quite triggering for some and would advise caution.
I also struggled with the rationale that Lily offered for not dating and the message it sent. It seemed that the writer was voicing that people with PCOS can’t date because they might have issues with infertility and that it would be unfair to their potential partners.
This was very nearly a DNF for me but I continued reading in hopes that Lily would have a redemption arc but was sadly disappointed.
I appreciated the attempt at PCOS, LGBTQIA2S+, and infertility representation.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the advanced reading copy in return for my honest review!
July 11, 2022
The Love Experiment was fun, factual, and easy to fall in love with. Lily is the “love doctor” therapist/podcaster who gives amazing advice to everyone around her but doesn’t take her own advice… much like all of us in the world. She’s a commitmentphobe and would rather be having one night stands then long term relationships, until she meets Jay. Jay is this handsome well mannered gentleman who meets Lilly and is smitten with her from the moment he meets her! The characters in the novel were so easily likeable especially Kevin aka Jinx (drag queen Extraordinaire ) the friendships that are formed in the book really warms your heart. I loved how this book was a you choose your family type book… I did find it a tad long but honestly so worth it. I don’t want to give too much away but I’d definitely give this a good 4 stars ⭐️! The friendships, family life, support for the LGBQT community is truly beautiful the love story is super cute too!
Thanks NetGalley and Harper Collins for giving me this opportunity to review this book 💕
Thanks NetGalley and Harper Collins for giving me this opportunity to review this book 💕
August 10, 2022
I'd like to thank Netgalley and HarperCollins for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It's not really a romcom like I thought it would be (the cover) and it also deals with some very strong subjects. As a "Love Doctor" who gives others advice I was surprised that Lily would have so much unfinished issues to resolve in her own life. I liked Jay (the love interest) and thought he was pretty mature and honest through the story.
I'm not sure why this book was hard for me to get through. There wasn't really anything wrong with it but I just don't think it held my interest. I guess I was expecting more romance from it than I got. I think the side characters and their issues took away from this book too. They had a lot of problems and drama in their own lives and it just seemed like a little much to focus on.
I'm giving it a 3 star because it wasn't bad and others may really like this book. I would have just liked to see more romance.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It's not really a romcom like I thought it would be (the cover) and it also deals with some very strong subjects. As a "Love Doctor" who gives others advice I was surprised that Lily would have so much unfinished issues to resolve in her own life. I liked Jay (the love interest) and thought he was pretty mature and honest through the story.
I'm not sure why this book was hard for me to get through. There wasn't really anything wrong with it but I just don't think it held my interest. I guess I was expecting more romance from it than I got. I think the side characters and their issues took away from this book too. They had a lot of problems and drama in their own lives and it just seemed like a little much to focus on.
I'm giving it a 3 star because it wasn't bad and others may really like this book. I would have just liked to see more romance.
September 11, 2022
If you're looking for cosy rom-com, keep on walking. This is grittier, although it's still full-on romance. The heroine, Lily, is hard to like: she's let a difficult childhood of being bullied and coping with the effects of polycystic ovary syndrome influence her adult life. She's inflexible and a bit self-righteous. The book is partly about how she melts from this persona.
The hero, Jay, has also had it tough, having been fostered when young. His life focuses on a) keeping his sister from making bad decisions and b) looking for Mrs Right to start a family. Again, fair bit of inflexibility here.
A lot of the liveliness of the story comes from Kevin, the gay, Asian flatmate who finds fulfilment in being FABULOUS as a drag queen.
Settle down and enjoy.
The hero, Jay, has also had it tough, having been fostered when young. His life focuses on a) keeping his sister from making bad decisions and b) looking for Mrs Right to start a family. Again, fair bit of inflexibility here.
A lot of the liveliness of the story comes from Kevin, the gay, Asian flatmate who finds fulfilment in being FABULOUS as a drag queen.
Settle down and enjoy.
December 31, 2022
I love Emily Henry and Ali Hazelwood, but The Love Experiment completely missed the mark for me. The main character, the story, and the writing style all didn’t work for me. There was a lot of telling the reader what happened throughout the book, and it took me out of the story. Lily could have been a great main character, but her PCOS diagnosis and sexual assault in her past were all handled poorly for me; there are so many instances throughout the book where she makes decisions that are major red flags that I really didn’t find myself rooting for the main couple.
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 12, 2022
This book was good but a lot is going on in it and the side characters almost felt like main characters (positive or negative depending on what you prefer). There is great discussion about PCOS (Lily struggles with it) and other topics but as mentioned, there's a lot going on. I did find each chapter's POV switch to be a bit jarring without the name of the character written at the top (something I assume will be fixed for the final pub version). This book is a bit therapy like so it does take away from the fun bit. It's a solid read, with a good romance, and many good characters, but the writing may not be for everyone.
July 15, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
This was such a fun and easy read! This is the first book of Kitty's that I've read but I really enjoyed the style of writing!
While tackling some more serious issues of PCOS, abusive relationships and loss, there was always an injection of humour from Lily's friend Kevin/Jinx!
Lily and Jay were both such loveable characters and I loved all of the side characters too, especially the girls Jay worked with in the community. I found both characters incredibly frustrating (all of my favourites always annoy me at some point) with the way they would stick so closely to their own rules!
This was such a fun and easy read! This is the first book of Kitty's that I've read but I really enjoyed the style of writing!
While tackling some more serious issues of PCOS, abusive relationships and loss, there was always an injection of humour from Lily's friend Kevin/Jinx!
Lily and Jay were both such loveable characters and I loved all of the side characters too, especially the girls Jay worked with in the community. I found both characters incredibly frustrating (all of my favourites always annoy me at some point) with the way they would stick so closely to their own rules!
June 22, 2022
Thank you to HarperCollins, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book was really enjoyable, however it sometimes felt too much like a therapy. I usually like when books focus not solely on romance but also on mental health of the characters, however here it was really too much. Nevertheless I really liked this story and I loved main characters. It was a good romance book.
This book was really enjoyable, however it sometimes felt too much like a therapy. I usually like when books focus not solely on romance but also on mental health of the characters, however here it was really too much. Nevertheless I really liked this story and I loved main characters. It was a good romance book.
July 2, 2022
I wanted to like this book but I just found Lily to be insufferable. She was so mean to Jay during their fight and she didn't even properly apologize for it. And there was not an epilogue to wrap things up so it ended very abruptly.
I received an arc through netgalley.
I received an arc through netgalley.
August 20, 2022
DNFed at 32%
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I went in to reading The Love Experiment with really high hopes, it had a fun premise and is set in my home town which I thought would be interesting read. On top of that I really wanted to support an author local to me, but unfortunately this book was so painful and triggering to read that I couldn’t get through it.
MAJOR trigger warnings for PCOS, fertility issues, weight loss, dieting or anything like that.
Quite frankly this book made me feel utterly terrible about myself, my body shape and my PCOS. Our main character suffers from PCOS and her views on it are incredibly toxic, the way she talks about weight loss and exercise come across as very pressuring and I would hate for any woman suffering from PCOS to hear that. The blame she places on being previously overweight as the cause for her PCOS is utterly ridiculous and harmful. The final straw for me was the way she talked about her best friend that was clearly having some body confidence issues and wanted to lose weight. Instead of supporting them, she essentially called them lazy and said that there health kick wouldn’t last long because of that.
I always want more representation of conditions like PCOS in books, and I would love to see more books showing the journey of women as they adjust and learn to live with it. Unfortunately after reading a third of this book it didn’t look like that was going to happen. When the main character is a therapist yet is spreading such toxic attitudes towards women’s reproductive health then I just don’t want to read it.
Maybe if you don’t find topics like that trigger then it might be enjoyable but unfortunately I found this so upsetting and angering that I couldn’t continue for the sake of my own health.
Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I went in to reading The Love Experiment with really high hopes, it had a fun premise and is set in my home town which I thought would be interesting read. On top of that I really wanted to support an author local to me, but unfortunately this book was so painful and triggering to read that I couldn’t get through it.
MAJOR trigger warnings for PCOS, fertility issues, weight loss, dieting or anything like that.
Quite frankly this book made me feel utterly terrible about myself, my body shape and my PCOS. Our main character suffers from PCOS and her views on it are incredibly toxic, the way she talks about weight loss and exercise come across as very pressuring and I would hate for any woman suffering from PCOS to hear that. The blame she places on being previously overweight as the cause for her PCOS is utterly ridiculous and harmful. The final straw for me was the way she talked about her best friend that was clearly having some body confidence issues and wanted to lose weight. Instead of supporting them, she essentially called them lazy and said that there health kick wouldn’t last long because of that.
I always want more representation of conditions like PCOS in books, and I would love to see more books showing the journey of women as they adjust and learn to live with it. Unfortunately after reading a third of this book it didn’t look like that was going to happen. When the main character is a therapist yet is spreading such toxic attitudes towards women’s reproductive health then I just don’t want to read it.
Maybe if you don’t find topics like that trigger then it might be enjoyable but unfortunately I found this so upsetting and angering that I couldn’t continue for the sake of my own health.
July 5, 2022
He can’t date and she doesn’t date, and her being the Love Doctor made this a promising permise. I was really looking forward to reading The Love Experiment, and I did enjoy parts of it, but I also found myself struggling to get through the amount of psychological explanations throughout the book.
The main and side characters were dealing with serious and complex issues, so some in-depth analysis on them was reasonable. But it consequently made the story packed and the pace a bit too slow for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for sharing a digital copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
The main and side characters were dealing with serious and complex issues, so some in-depth analysis on them was reasonable. But it consequently made the story packed and the pace a bit too slow for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for sharing a digital copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2022
Unfortunately, this book is rather confusingly written, with a barrage of characters making their appearance at once, which, combined with the chapters being told from different points of view, made reading this book a struggle rather than a pleasure.
Surely others will like it because it is not superficial and deals with rather important issues as well, but personally I couldn't wait to finish it.
Purtroppo questo libro é scritto in modo piuttosto confuso, con una marea di personaggi che fanno la loro comparsa contemporaneamente e che, uniti ai capitoli raccontati da diversi punti di vista, hanno reso la lettura di questo libro una battaglia piuttosto che un piacevole divertimento.
Sicuramente ad altri piacerá perché non é superficiale e tratta temi anche piuttosto importanti, ma personalmente non vedevo l'ora di finirlo.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
Surely others will like it because it is not superficial and deals with rather important issues as well, but personally I couldn't wait to finish it.
Purtroppo questo libro é scritto in modo piuttosto confuso, con una marea di personaggi che fanno la loro comparsa contemporaneamente e che, uniti ai capitoli raccontati da diversi punti di vista, hanno reso la lettura di questo libro una battaglia piuttosto che un piacevole divertimento.
Sicuramente ad altri piacerá perché non é superficiale e tratta temi anche piuttosto importanti, ma personalmente non vedevo l'ora di finirlo.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
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