“Love on the Brain” by Ali Hazelwood is a delightful dive into the world of neuroengineering with a sprinkle of romance and a splash of STEM advocacy. Bee, our purple-haired heroine, faces the challenges of leading a NASA project while navigating the complexities of working with her academic nemesis, Levi. The chemistry between Bee and Levi is palpable, making their journey from adversaries to lovers engaging and heartwarming.
One of the book’s standout features is its ability to convey Levi’s feelings toward Bee without delving into his perspective. Hazelwood masterfully shows Levi’s evolving affection through his actions, which adds a layer of depth to their relationship. Additionally, the secondary characters, particularly Bee’s research assistant, add charm and humor to the narrative, making the story more vibrant.
Hazelwood does a commendable job exploring STEM-related issues, especially the representation of women in science. Bee’s struggles and triumphs in a male-dominated field are both relatable and inspiring, highlighting the importance of perseverance and support.
However, the enemies-to-lovers trope, feels overused and somewhat predictable and not engaging. The story follows a formulaic path with a tidy wrap-up of issues that lacks the depth some readers might crave. Bee’s character development seems somewhat static, and the miscommunications trope is frustrating, detracting from the overall enjoyment.
“Love on the Brain” is a fun and heartfelt read, particularly for those interested in STEM and romance. Despite its reliance on well-trodden tropes and occasional predictability, the book’s strengths in character chemistry and STEM advocacy make it a worthwhile pick.
We paired this STEMinist novel with a glass of Fundamental by Joey Tensley Pinot Noir creating a delightful experience that blends romance and science. The deep core of berry fruit parallels the depth of emotions and chemistry between Bee and Levi, while the long, layered finish reflects the evolving dynamics of their relationship, making for a perfect pairing.