I admit that it's been a wee while since I wrote my last book review, The Queue by Alexandra Heminsley . This book I'm about to review did take me a…
I admit that it's been a wee while since I wrote my last book review, The Queue by Alexandra Heminsley. This book I'm about to review did take me a little longer to read than I anticipated. I'll share more about that as the review goes on. The book I am reviewing today is Not In Love by Ali Hazelwood.
I read my first Ali Hazelwood book over a year ago. 'Love, Thereotically' was one of my favourite reads of 2024, I couldn't rave about it enough in the review I wrote about it. I really loved Ali's writing style and the book kept me hooked throughout. So, when I picked up 'Not In Love', I had high expectations.
Let's set the scene:
Rue Siebert may not have it all, but she has enough. She has a few good friends, a job as a biotech engineer, which she loves and financial stability, something she has craved since she was a teenager. She sees her world as stable, and wants to keep it that way, that's until Eli Killgore enters her life.
Eli and his business partners are planning a takeover of Kline, the company Rue works for. Eli has his own reasons for pushing this deal through, but as he gets to know Rue and can't stop thinking about her, the deal could get derailed.
Rue and Eli are torn between their undeniable attraction for one another and their loyalties. Rue wants to remain loyal to her boss, Florence. Eli wants to keep the deal going and make it happen. Their affair must remain secret, a no-strings-attached kind of deal. But can that really work?
What I liked about Not in Love?
I liked the main characters, to a certain extent. I didn't take to Rue at first, but she kind of redeemed herself at the end of the book.
STEM books seem to be my guilty pleasure, plus I learn a thing or two about science from reading that genre, too!
What I disliked about Not in Love?
I kind of felt like we were thrown into the story without any premise or background, if that makes sense. The start of the book felt like it should have happened about a quarter of the way through. It didn't make sense!
The whole takeover plot could have been delved into a bit more. There was no substance, like I had to predict how the takeover was going to happen.
The main characters were ok, but not the most likeable I've ever read. Also, Eli saying he has a "magic cock" - unless it says abracadabra, it's not magic.
My favourite moment of the book
Nothing, unfortunately.
Would I recommend Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood?
Hmm, sadly, no. As I said, I adored 'Love, Thereotically' and I was so eager to read another book by Ali, and I was so excited to read this one. But ultimately, I was disappointed.
The book fell really flat for me, and I just couldn't take to the story. That's why it's taken me so long to read, I stopped reading for days on end. However, I was determined to finish it as I was hoping there would be some kind of excitement or redemption at the end. Unfortunately, that didn't materialise.
There was no real chemistry between the protagonists; it felt more like a weird sexual infatuation with one another.
It's such a shame I didn't like this book. However, it's not going to stop me wanting to read another book by Ali Hazelwood in the future!
I'd love to know your thoughts on my review!
[AD] Last month, I watched a friend practically have a panic attack in the middle of a packed departure gate. Flight delayed three hours, no explanation, no…
*This post contains affiliate links. I'm all for discovering and trying new beauty products all of the time. 2025 has been the year when I've found…
[AD] When it comes to home improvement, heating is no longer just about function - it’s about form too. Cheap Designer Radiators have transformed the way p…
[AD] When it comes to beauty, the options are endless—and let’s be honest, some of them aren’t cheap.
You’ve probably found yourself wondering which treatments are just trendy splurges and which ones
truly stand the test of time.
Here’s the thing…
Real beauty investments don’t just make you feel good today—they keep paying off for years to come.
In places like Newport Beach, CA, where self-care is a priority, people are putting their money where it
matters most.
Photo by Content Pixie on Unsplash
So, what’s worth it? We’re breaking down the beauty treatments and products that go beyond hype and
deliver long-term results.
1) Medical-Grade Skincare Products
Over-the-counter creams might give you a short-term glow, but medical-grade skincare products are
where the real magic happens. These formulas often contain higher concentrations of active
ingredients—think retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants - that penetrate deeper and deliver long-lasting
results.
Yes, they cost more upfront, but they can actually reduce your need for facials and other treatments in
the long run. Many dermatologists and med spas carry lines tailored to your skin’s exact needs. If you’re
tired of guessing what works, investing in a customised skincare routine can give you clear, glowing skin
without constantly switching products.
2) Laser Hair Removal
Shaving, waxing, and plucking are all temporary solutions that require time, money, and patience. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, is a one-time commitment that can free you from daily maintenance. After
a series of sessions, most people see a significant reduction in hair growth, and in some cases, it stops
completely.
Areas such as the underarms, legs, and bikini lines are popular spots for treatment. The initial investment might
seem steep, but over time, it saves you from the cost of razors, waxing appointments, and skin irritation.
It’s a time-saver that truly pays off year after year.
3) Breast Augmentation
When it comes to body confidence, breast enhancement remains one of the most sought-after
procedures, and it’s easy to see why. Breast augmentation in Newport Beach, CA, offers a tailored
approach that considers your body type, lifestyle, and personal goals. With industry-leading techniques
and experienced surgeons in the area, results can be natural-looking and long-lasting.
Many patients report a boost in confidence and satisfaction that extends far beyond aesthetics. Unlike
temporary fixes or trends, this is a surgical investment in how you feel every day—one that aligns your
outer appearance with your inner self for years to come. Be sure to choose a board-certified plastic
surgeon to ensure the safest, most satisfying results.
4) Microneedling with PRP (The “Vampire Facial”)
This isn’t just a social media trend—it’s a serious skin investment. Microneedling combined with
platelet-rich plasma (PRP) uses your body’s natural growth factors to promote collagen production,
improve skin texture, and reduce fine lines and acne scars. You’ll start seeing results after a few
sessions, and those results continue to improve over time.
Many patients say their skin looks tighter, brighter, and healthier overall. While the treatment isn’t
inexpensive, it addresses multiple skin concerns simultaneously and reduces the need for frequent
experimentation with skincare products. It’s a science-backed approach to rejuvenation that works.
Photo by Enkin Akyurt via Unsplash
5) Hair Restoration Treatments
Thinning hair or receding hairlines can be frustrating to deal with, but modern treatments have made
restoration more accessible than ever. Options like PRP for hair growth, laser therapy, and even hair
transplants can offer permanent or semi-permanent solutions with real results.
These treatments stimulate follicles and encourage natural hair growth without the need for extensions
or thickening sprays. If you’ve been struggling with hair loss, investing in these technologies can restore
both your hair and your confidence. It’s a long-term solution to a problem that once felt impossible to
fix.
6) Quality Makeup Brushes and Tools
You don’t need a drawer full of makeup to look your best—you just need the right tools. Investing in
high-quality brushes and applicators ensures smoother, more even makeup application and prevents
product waste. Good brushes last for years if properly cleaned and maintained.
Tools like beauty blenders, dermaplaning razors, and jade rollers can also enhance your routine without
constantly needing replacement. Instead of spending money on the next new palette, think about
upgrading your tools—you’ll get more mileage out of your makeup and achieve professional-looking
results at home.
7) Professional Teeth Whitening
A bright, healthy smile never goes out of style. While drugstore whitening kits can help a little, they
often lead to uneven results or sensitivity. Professional teeth whitening, done under the supervision of a
dentist, gives you a noticeably whiter smile that lasts much longer.
It’s especially worth it if you’ve got years of coffee, wine, or tobacco stains to deal with. The boost in confidence from a radiant smile is immediate, and maintenance is easy with occasional touch-ups. It’s a
subtle yet impactful beauty upgrade that keeps paying off every time you flash a grin.
Conclusion
True beauty isn’t about trying everything—it’s about choosing what works and sticking with it. The right
investments can simplify your routine, deliver visible results, and keep you feeling your best for years to
come. When you commit to treatments and products that stand the test of time, you're not just
maintaining appearances—you’re taking care of yourself in the most meaningful way.
[AD] When it comes to beauty, the options are endless—and let’s be honest, some of them aren’t cheap. You’ve probably found yourself wondering which treatments…
For anyone with a disability or chronic illness, there's no doubt that you have been questioned about your chronic illness and/or disabilities. Weirdly,…
[AD] We rely on our eyes for just about everything - scrolling through our phones, working on screens, and enjoying the world around us. But let’s be honest…
[AD] It is a parent's job to ensure their child gets checked out if they're feeling unwell. However, there are times when it is difficult to determine …
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
