Problematic Summer Romance Review – A Soft, Chaotic, Beautiful Mess

First Impressions: Not Just Another Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood

Okay, so when I picked up Problematic Summer Romance, I was expecting something light, maybe a little spicy, and definitely chaotic. I mean, the title practically dares you to expect drama. But what I got was something softer, deeper, and way more emotionally layered than I anticipated.

💔 The Messy Bits: Age Gaps, Ghosting, and Emotional Baggage

Let’s talk about the “problematic” part. Maya is 23. Conor is 38. That’s a 15-year age gap, and Hazelwood doesn’t shy away from it. Conor is hyper-aware of the power dynamics, and he spends a good chunk of the book trying to convince Maya (and himself) that they shouldn’t be together. It’s frustrating, but it’s also honest. He’s not toxic — he’s terrified of becoming someone who takes advantage.

Maya, on the other hand, is messy. She’s angry, impulsive, and sometimes hard to love. But her backstory, the grief, the flashbacks, the complicated relationship with Eli, gives her depth. I found myself softening toward her as the story unfolded. And the dual timeline? Brilliant. It lets us see how their friendship evolved, how the emotional intimacy built long before the romance kicked in.

Also, the ghosting. Ten months of silence after Maya confesses her love? Brutal. But it makes the reunion at the wedding feel earned. There’s tension, awkwardness, and so much unsaid and Hazelwood lets it all simmer until it finally boils over.

Final Thoughts: Soft, Spicy, and Surprisingly Soulful

This book isn’t perfect. The ending felt a little abrupt, and if you haven’t read Not in Love, you might miss some emotional context. But it’s heartfelt, funny, and full of the kind of quiet chaos that Hazelwood does best. It’s not just about romance; it’s about timing, fear, and the courage to choose love when it feels inconvenient.

If you’re a fan of slow burns, emotional depth, and characters who feel like real people (flaws and all), this one’s worth your time. And if you love Hazelwood’s universe? You’ll feel right at home.

Quick FAQ for Curious Readers

Is Problematic Summer Romance spicy?

Yes, but in classic Hazelwood fashion, it’s a slow burn with emotional depth. The tension simmers until late in the story, and when it finally ignites, it’s tender, consensual, and well-earned. Think 2🌶️ on the spice scale: enough to stir the senses, but never overpowering the heart of the story.

Is Problematic Summer Romance a sequel?

Not officially, but emotionally? Absolutely. This book is best enjoyed after reading Not in Love, as it features Maya (Eli’s sister) and Conor (his best friend), plus a cascade of cameos from Hazelwood’s universe. The layers of backstory, emotional nuance, and character dynamics truly shine when you’ve met them before.

How many pages is Problematic Summer Romance?

The hardcover edition runs 416 pages, a satisfying length for a story that blends longing, humor, and heartfelt chaos in a sun-drenched Sicilian setting.