Ranking Ali Hazelwood Books
Ali Hazelwood is one of my favorite authors of all time, and she’s firmly at the top of my autobuy list. Whenever she has a new release, I drop everything to read it immediately. While I genuinely enjoy all of her books, today I’m ranking them from my personal favorite down to the ones that didn’t hit quite as hard for me. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them.
Books
1 – Love, Theoretically (★★★★★)
My favorite Ali Hazelwood book! This one just flows perfectly with great banter, electric chemistry, and a story that feels effortless. It’s the ultimate mix of romance and academia, with a fake-dating twist that turns into so much more.
2 – Not in Love (★★★★★)
Even though it’s one of her lower-rated books overall, it’s a favorite for me. The writing, the chemistry, and the plot all worked without leaning on miscommunication or over the top drama. I highly recommend reading this book and getting your own opinion on it!
3 – Love on the Brain (★★★★½)
Probably the Ali Hazelwood book I think about the most. The pining in this one is very well done, and the STEM setting really shines. Bee, the main character, is unapologetically herself, which made her so lovable.
4 – Bride (★★★★)
This paranormal romance was such a fun change of pace! I adored the little blurbs at the top of each chapter. This book is sweet, funny, and highly worth the read. The second book, Mate, comes out soon!
5 – Deep End (★★★★)
I read this in one sitting! The diving setting was unique and so immersive, though I wasn’t completely sold on how involved the ex was in the plot. Still, the romance is strong, and if you know anything about diving, you’ll appreciate the details even more.
6 – The Love Hypothesis (★★★★)
The OG Ali Hazelwood book that is now being turned into a movie. It’s charming, nerdy, and has one of the most iconic grumpy/sunshine dynamics. Even though it’s lower on my list, it’s a must-read.
7 – Problematic Summer Romance (★★★½)
This one was fun but didn’t hit quite as hard as her others. It’s well written and has Hazelwood’s signature humor, but I didn’t connect with it the same way I did with her top-tier books. It has a large age gap and takes place mostly over a short trip to Italy, which made it hard for me to see the characters connect. That said, it still has great pining and is a fun 2nd story to Not In Love.
8 – Check & Mate (★★★)
Ali Hazelwood’s YA chess romance just wasn’t for me. I wouldn’t have picked it up if it wasn’t written by her, and I struggled with the YA tone. That said, if you’re into YA or love a sports/strategy angle like chess, this could be your jam.
Novellas
1 – Two Can Play (★★★★½)
This novella has all the Hazelwood trademarks, banter, spice, and heart, even if it feels a little rushed. I do wish the video game design aspect had been explored more, but overall, it’s a super fun, steamy listen. (This is currently only available as a Spotify audiobook)
2 – Under One Roof (★★★★)
Roommate romance with a small STEM twist. Sharing a house with a grumpy stranger who (of course) turns out to be impossible to resist. Short, sweet, and satisfying.
3 – A Cruel Winter With You (★★★★)
A cozy, Christmas-y romance that’s both cute and heartwarming. It’s perfect if you want a quick seasonal read with all the warm fuzzy feelings.
4 – Stuck With You (★★★★)
Classic “trapped in an elevator” setup done Ali Hazelwood style. It’s quick, flirty, and fun, with great chemistry packed in.
5 – Below Zero (★★★)
The most dramatic of her novellas where he braves a snowstorm to rescue her, and while the swoon factor is there, it wasn’t my favorite of the STEMinist shorts. Still enjoyable and worth the short read.
And that’s my ranking of Ali Hazelwood’s books and novellas! Every single one has something to love, and I would recommend trying them all out as they all have something different to offer.