Anna is a cosmetic chemist in her mid-twenties, working to create the next big thing in the world of makeup. But she’s also hopelessly in love with Craig Kimball, who happens to be her boss’s boss. In an uncharacteristically bold move, she decides to quit her job in order to pursue Craig. But when he announces his engagement to another woman at an office party, she is devastated and left with no job and no romance. In comes Marco, CEO of the company, and Craig’s half-brother. After hearing Anna’s dilemma, Marco sees an opportunity to protect the company and offer Anna the man of her dreams. The Chemistry of Love by Sariah Wilson is a charming romance novel that adds nerd trivia and science to the classic “fake dating” trope. 

Marco’s logic in his love scheme relies on the competitive nature between Craig and Marco. Apparently Craig has a history of wanting whatever Marco has. Hence, if Anna is Marco’s newest love interest, then surely Craig will forget about his fiance and want Anna for himself. Marco can ensure his company doesn’t go into the wrong hands, and Anna can have her happily ever after. All they have to do is make everyone believe that they are madly in love. I’m sure you all know where this is going. 

As the “practice” dates progress, along with intel about Craig and how to woo him, Anna spends a lot of time with Marco. As she gets to know him more, she realizes that her fake feelings might be developing into something real. After all, there’s more to him than being incredibly handsome and successful. They also happen to have a lot of the same interests in nerd culture and the science involved in developing cosmetics. And to top it off, Marco shows signs of falling for her too. 

The Chemistry of Love is filled with all elements of the fake dating trope. What makes this one unique is the cheesy science jokes, references to nerd culture like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings, and the hilarious celebrity names that Anna’s grandparents give to the birds they care for (i.e. Feather Locklear, Parrot Hilton, and Crow DiMaggio were among my favorites). 

But this story is not without it’s shortcomings. Anna’s hopeless devotion to someone who she hasn’t had a real conversation with was a bit sad and annoying. Although, her tendency to freeze and stumble over her words whenever she is around Craig can be relatable. Her best friend and fellow scientist, Catalina, is the voice of reason and saving grace in The Chemistry of Love. Additionally, Marco turns out to be the perfect fake boyfriend, and the outcome of the fake dating scheme is predictable. 

Nevertheless, Wilson’s writing style and adorable dialogue she gives her characters the redemption that this story needs. Even though I knew how the story was going to end, I enjoyed following Anna and Marco’s love story and seeing how the final moments would unfold. 

The Chemistry of Love is available now.