Looking for an unforgettable collection of books like The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood? As an award-winning author and veteran blogger, I’ve spent over a decade reading, analyzing, and recommending the funniest romances with engaging stories, absurd situations, and relatable characters.
You’ll find detailed reviews of more than a dozen of my favorites in the roundup below. I know you find something dreamy that tickles your funny bone and makes you blush—or something sexist that rankles (or both). Happy reading!
Drive to June by Khristina Chess
“You do realize that a car is a mobile make-out location, right?” Ian said. ― Khristina Chess, quote from Drive to June.
If you love witty banter and romance books like The Love Hypothesis, I highly recommend Drive to June for your next must-read.
What kind of girl drinks after a drunk driver kills her mom?
Sixteen months ago, Adrianna lost her mother. Since then, she’s been drowning her grief—one bottle at a time. With her father always away and her sister off at college, no one notices she’s slowly draining the wine collection and numbing herself to avoid an awful secret.
Now, she can’t quit.
Then one evening, a pizza delivery boy finds her crying on the roof of her house and offers to teach her how to drive—and somehow, that changes everything.
What a ride! Drive to June grabbed me from the start and never let go. It’s more than a story about alcohol abuse—it’s funny, romantic, and deeply emotional. I loved the undeniable chemistry between Adrianna and Ian.
What stood out for me is the beautiful way Khristina Chess portrays Adrianna’s sorrow, bereavement, loneliness, and guilt about the accident that changed everyone’s lives. Like Ali Hazelwood, she balances a romantic story with tough topics.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
“Because while stupid people may not know they’re stupid because they’re stupid, surely unattractive people must know they’re unattractive because of mirrors.” ― Bonnie Garmus, quote from Lessons in Chemistry
Lessons in Chemistry is one of the best books I've read in a while. It made me laugh out loud on many occasions. Elizabeth Zott has a direct and no nonsense practicality about her that is so lovable. Her dog, six thirty, makes a delightful sidekick. That she teaches him almost 1,000 words (and the author gives him a point of view) is beyond wonderful.
Elizabeth's struggles for equality in a male-dominated world were poignant and emotional. She demonstrated great restraint and composure when it wasn't deserved. I felt grateful to women of her generation for the opportunities I enjoy today in the technology workplace.
This is an inspiring, page-turning, and important book about women in this field and the challenges faced historically to make progress in this area. Readers looking for more books like The Love Hypothesis will adore Elizabeth Zott’s great STEM novel.
Tweet Cute by Emma Lord
“It's weird, how you have no idea how far you've come until suddenly you can't find the way back.” ― Emma Lord from Tweet Cute
Tweet Cute is a sweet romance told in alternating viewpoints of two teens who are engaged in a Twitter war for their family businesses. In a case of hidden identities, Pepper and Jack also are involved in a secret budding relationship through an app that conceals their identity from one another. What could possibly go wrong?
Plenty!
I loved all of the food in the book, and the world from Pepper's point of view felt very real to me. She has never left beyond the general radius of her NY apartment, and the adventure of getting on a train for her college interview seemed big and important. I could also get a real sense of Jack's neighborhood and the deli and its patrons. Both teens had very rich character development.
As a romantic novel, I had bigger expectations when the couple finally got together. It didn't feel quite as satisfying in that aspect as it might have been. Still, a can’t-put-down great read, and I definitely recommend it for readers who like smart “tech girls” and fun romances similar to The Love Hypothesis.
The Future Unborn by Khristina Chess
“There is no place for the word twerking anywhere on your college application. Ever.” ― Khristina Chess, quote from The Future Unborn
What if helping someone you love means giving up all of your dreams?
Ignore the cover. Trust the story. The Future Unborn is an unexpected novel that balances smart girls in STEM, sarcastic humor with witty observations, and romance in a short, time-boxed narrative that keeps the pages turning.
Kansas Jones has it all: class president, varsity swim team, straight-A student, and a future at MIT.
Then one misstep results in an unplanned pregnancy—threatening all her hopes and dreams.
Kansas thinks twelve weeks is plenty of time to act, but with finals, college applications, and the R2-RoboCon competition piling up, the clock is ticking faster than she ever imagined.
When a family tragedy shifts her perspective, she finds herself facing a tough choice that no blueprint can solve.
For me, what made The Future Unborn so special was the blend of lighthearted banter, robotics team collaboration, a sweet love story, and a gut-wrenching decision that was as hopeful as it was heartbreaking. I loved that despite the heavy topic, the story offered a blend of lighthearted banter and a sweet romance with Kansas’ nerdy teammate.
If you love entertaining fiction that makes you laugh and want more books like The Love Hypothesis on your reading shelf, be sure to pick up this offbeat novel.
Keeping Lucy by T. Greenwood
“A body forgets, but the heart remembers.” ― T. Greenwood from Keeping Lucy
Inspired by a 1971 article about horrific conditions at the Belchertown State School for the Feeble-Minded, this thrilling historical novel by T. Greenwood explores the powerlessness of women at that time, society’s response to handicaps, and the unbreakable bond between mother and child.
After seeing an expose about the school where her daughter was taken at birth, Ginny decides to visit and see for herself. She is so shocked by the conditions that she checks out her daughter, who she is seeing for the very first time and who has Down Syndrome, and she flees with a friend to Florida. In the thrilling journey that follows, the two women are chased, have car trouble, take shelter in a seedy motel, and run out of money.
I loved the way the author portrayed the challenges Ginny faced. She’d never driven a car in her life. Any access to money came through her husband, who expected her to follow along and not ask questions.
If you’re looking for books about sexism like that in The Love Hypothesis, check out this one, where a mother kidnaps her daughter and resists her overbearing father-in-law and husband to do the right thing. There’s nothing funny here, but the struggles for women in a male-dominated world are authentic.
Catalyst by Laurie Halse Anderson
“A teacher (a good teacher) is composed of molecules of education and intelligence, bonded together by patience and passion.” ― Laurie Halse Anderson, quote from Catalyst
Kate Malone is a hopeful MIT applicant. A smart math and science nerd, she is regimented about organizing all aspects of her life. In fact, she is so confident that MIT will accept her that she has not applied to any other colleges.
Things don’t go as planned. Worse, things change at home that force Kate to adapt in ways she never expected.
While Catalyst wasn’t my favorite Laurie Halse Anderson novel, it does fit this list for books like The Love Hypothesis because Kate is a young woman in STEM, dealing with all the issues that entails. Check it out!
Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood
“Physics is like sex: it may yield practical results, but often that’s not why we do it.” ― Ali Hazelwood, quote from Love, Theoretically
Love, Theoretically isn't the delightful gold standard that The Love Hypothesis is, but this book definitely answers my question: do I love Ali Hazelwood?
Yes, yes I do!
I didn't love her second book, Love on the Brain at all, so this was a real question. However, this third return, Love, Theoretically brings two characters with great chemistry, great banter, a great science problem, a solid conflict, and a great overall story.
Elsie and Jack are fun couple to watch, especially as Elsie grows as a character and discovers what she really wants... honestly.
More, please. :-)
Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell
“I just can’t believe that life would give us to each other,” he said, “and then take it back.”
“I can,” she said. “Life’s a bastard.” ― Rainbow Rowell, quote from Eleanor and Park
It's been a long time since I've encountered a novel that I literally couldn't put down. Eleanor & Park was one of those books. I loved every minute. I sat on the porch, on the couch, on the floor by the window... and devoured this book. It was a wonderful reading experience about first love. Sweet and heartbreaking and everything I wanted. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a good, romantic young love story.
The story unfolds from alternating points of view, both Eleanor and Park, as they fall in love over the course of one year. The dialog is witty, snappy, and fun.
As a super-dreamy book about about young love, it will give you all the feels. Fans of books like The Love Hypothesis will enjoy the romance between Eleanor and Park in this story.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
“It’s an unimaginative accusation and one that I am frankly tired of hearing. Witchcraft. As though there is no other explanation for a woman who excels at her work.”― Ariel Lawhon, quote from The Frozen River
What a wonderful book! Historical fiction isn't my usual genre, but the cover and the accolades for The Frozen River made me give it a try.
On a high level, this mystery is about a midwife named Martha Ballard. The body of an accused rapist is found frozen in the river, and after examination, Martha says that the victim was murdered. She becomes a key witness in a trial for the woman who was raped because she treated the woman's wounds after the assault. The other accused man is a judge.
This novel has many layers. Beyond the mystery, there is the social commentary on women, family, sexual assault, and society during early days of America in New England. Paul Revere is mentioned as a friend of the family. The author depicts a rich setting of cold winter, warm homes and hearts, young love and pre-marital relationships, and the early court system, where Martha must ultimately testify against a very powerful man. I couldn't put it down.
If you’re wondering what to read after The Love Hypothesis, you will definitely devour The Frozen River.
My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick
“His bed’s really comfortable. And he never pees in it.” ― Huntley Fitzpatrick, quote from My Life Next Door
This adorable love story is compelling and has an unexpected ending. Everything about the messy Garrett house draws Samantha into it, but especially the good-looking son, Jase. He’s one of several children in the house. His little brother, George, has some of the best lines. I laughed out loud. The sneaking around teen love stuff was pretty wonderful. Samantha’s best friend is a jerk, and her sister is too. No wonder she’s so drawn to the loving family next door.
Samantha is keeping this relationship with Jase a secret from her mom and everyone else in her life, but eventually that blows up in her face. In the process, she learns some lessons about who she is and who she wants to be.
Readers searching for more fun books like The Love Hypothesis will enjoy this dreamy romance. It evokes all those light feelings of happiness, joy, and romantic love. You just can’t help sighing about that first kiss. You can’t wait for Samantha and Jase to take their relationship to the next level, and your heart breaks when things get rocky. This is such a sweet story. So cute!
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
“I want to say yes, but I don't want to be with a boy whose heart belongs to somebody else. Just once, I want to be somebody else's first choice.” ― Jenny Han, quote from To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
Lara Jean is a super sweet adorable character, and even though the story seems like a common love triangle, there are enough twists to keep the pages turning. Plus, Lara Jean herself is such a star. She’s naive and on her own for the first time, and she’s making all kinds of mistakes. She’s basically a train wreck. I love her immensely. Two plot points surprised me, and I thought I had those wrapped up early on.
I didn’t expect to like this book as much as I did, but I finished it in two sittings. Now I see why everyone’s been reading it! :-)
Something about Lara Jean reminds me of Olive Smith—plus there are all the love triangle and fake dating tropes to enjoy. If you’re searching for more dreamy romance books like The Love Hypothesis, I definitely recommend this one.
Coywood Creek by Khristina Chess
“Kent packed a flashlight and extra batteries. I packed an iPad and a troll doll.” ― Khristina Chess, quote from Coywood Creek
Don’t miss the sassiest protagonist since Olive Smith. If you’re looking for more books similar to The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, this hilariously smart YA novel will wreck you—in the best way possible!
At first, Zoey brushes off the blackout, the dead cell service, and the eerie northern lights in the southern sky. But as reality sets in, she knows one thing: she can’t stay in her parents’ condo alone with no power. So she packs her snacks and sets out for Coywood Creek with Kent, a teenage boy living in her building, hoping to find safety with her uncle and grandmother.
Zoey and Kent quickly realize this isn’t an ordinary power outage. After a harrowing journey, they arrive at Coywood Creek, a sanctuary with plenty of food, fresh water, and the natural protection of cliffs.
But it’s not safe here.
For readers drawn to the slow unraveling of society in dystopian fiction, Coywood Creek delivers a comical story about the end of the world. What made this novel so engrossing for me was Zoey’s sharp, relatable, and often humorous response to navigating the collapse of civilization with her signature sarcasm (and a bag of OREO cookies). The situational humor and witty banter between Zoey and Kent made me laugh out loud, even as the novel’s deeper themes—resilience, uncertainty, and survival—kept me hooked.
But more than anything, Coywood Creek forces readers to ask: How fragile are we without our technology?
Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood
“It is a truth universally acknowledged that a community of women trying to mind their own business must be in want of a random man’s opinion.” ― Ali Hazelwood from Love on the Brain
In this nerdy romance, Bee and Levi are scientists working together on a project for NASA. He's an engineer and she's the neuroscientist. Bee has lots of quirky and adorable qualities, but I missed the laugh-out-loud humor I found in The Love Hypothesis.
Still, it's a good romance if you’re looking for books like The Love Hypothesis that portray strong women in STEM, professional challenges, and witty romance. I rooted for Bee and Levi to work out their issues and fall in love. I thought the roommate's surprise romance felt bolted on rather than fully integrated and seemed like an unnecessary distraction from the main story line.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
“Vianne didn’t hesitate. She knew now that no one could be neutral—not anymore—and as afraid as she was of risking Sophie’s life, she was suddenly more afraid of letting her daughter grow up in a world where good people did nothing to stop evil, where a good woman could turn her back on a friend in need." ― Kristin Hannah from The Nightingale
The Nightingale starts slowly. It takes its time with characterization and setting, but when the Germans invade Paris, the plotting picks up and doesn't stop. Two sisters give their perspective on events as they unfold. Isabelle, the impulsive one, has a heroic story to tell about saving airmen, while her older sister Vianne takes another route that is ultimately heroic in its own right. These women have a complicated family relationship, both with each other and also with their father.
For the last 150 pages, I curled up and cried and cried. Not since Elie Wiesel's "Night" have I been so horrified by the atrocities that the Nazis committed. Kristin Hannah does not flinch as she shows readers the brutality that Jews, French citizens, and allied fighters experienced during World War II. It's unfathomable that humans can inflict such evil on one another. That individuals rose up with such courage is astonishing. Isabella was not even twenty years old when she began her fight. Her sister had much more to lose, as did all the other French citizens who found ways to resist, to save Jewish children as their parents were forced onto trains, and all the others who didn't give up even with starvation, sickness, cold, and great loss.
Like the other books and authors similar to Ali Hazelwood in my list, The Nightingale portrays strong female protagonists in a male-dominated environment. It’s one of those books that will keep me thinking for a long time.
Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood
I was very excited to pick up Ali Hazelwood’s first YA novel, Check & Mate, because I loved The Love Hypothesis so much. A story about a super-smart girl competing in a super hard sport like competitive chess seemed intriguing. However, I was very disappointed by this one. Where The Love Hypothesis has fun, LOL, wicked-smart dialog that sparkles on every page, the conversations between Mallory and Nolan in Check & Mate felt flat and not engaging. I can’t even include a favorite quote from this one because nothing stood out as remarkable.
The mystery about what happened to Mallory’s father and the reason why she quit playing chess kept me interested to a point, but somewhere in the middle, things really started to drag. I could just never fully invest myself in Nolan and Mallory or the romance.
Fans nominated this one as a Goodreads Choice Award Winner for Young Adult Fiction, but this definitely wasn’t my cup of tea. Still, if you like Ali Hazelwood and romance novels like The Love Hypothesis, this new one might be for you.
Also, if you’re interested in this premise, I recommend The Queen’s Gambit by Walter Tevis instead. (The series on Netflix is also amazing!)
Other Books like The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
If you are looking for other books like The Love Hypothesis, check out the Readers Who Enjoyed The Love Hypothesis list on Goodreads.
You might also be interested in my post, Other Good Reads, which lists other reviews of Binge-Worthy YA Books So Addicting You Can’t Stop Reading.
About the Author: Khristina Chess
Khristina Chess is an award-winning author of more than a dozen young adult novels, including The Cutting Edge of Friendship, The Delinquent Hero, and Junior Missing. Her novel about eating disorders, Hollow Beauty, was named a finalist in the Next Generation Indie Book Awards. She tackles tough teen topics and writes binge-worthy books across multiple genres, including contemporary, thriller, mystery, dystopian, and adventure.
