Wondering just how steamy The Love Hypothesis really is? You’re in the right place.
In this article, I’ll break down:
- The exact spice level (on a 1-5 scale)
- Where the steamy scenes happen
- How it compares to other romance books
- Who should (and shouldn’t) read it
I’ve read all of Ali Hazelwood’s books and analyzed what readers are saying across Goodreads, Amazon, and BookTok.
When you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to expect before turning the first page.
No more wondering if this popular academic romance is too mild or too spicy for your taste.
Trust me – whether you’re new to romance novels or a seasoned reader, this guide will help you decide if The Love Hypothesis belongs on your TBR list.
Plot Summary
Olive Smith is a Ph.D. candidate who doesn’t believe in lasting romance. To convince her best friend she’s dating, she kisses the first man she sees – Dr. Adam Carlsen, a young professor known for his grumpiness.
The problem? He’s hot. He’s brilliant. And he agrees to pretend-date her.
Their fake relationship happens in an academic setting where rumors spread fast. As they spend more time together, the line between pretend and reality starts to blur.
Genre and Tropes
This book is a contemporary romance that uses several popular tropes:
- Fake dating (they pretend to be a couple)
- Grumpy × sunshine (he’s stern, she’s cheerful)
- Forced proximity (they have to spend time together)
- Age gap (he’s older than her)
Does The Love Hypothesis Have Spice?
Spice rating: 3.5/5
This book isn’t mild, but it’s not the hottest thing on the shelf, either. There’s one main spicy scene that packs a punch, plus some steamy kisses and tension throughout.
Age rating: 18+
This book is for adult readers due to its explicit content.
Content warnings: Sexual content, mentions of cancer, parental abandonment
What type of smut? The scenes are detailed and explicit. Hazelwood doesn’t use flowery language – she tells it like it is.
The Spicy Scene
The main spicy scene happens when Olive and Adam finally give in to their attraction. After fighting their feelings for most of the book, the tension breaks in a hotel room.
What makes this scene work is the emotional connection built throughout the story. It’s not just physical—it’s the culmination of their relationship development.
The scene is well-paced, with consent being a clear focus, which many readers appreciate. Adam is attentive to Olive’s needs and experiences, making the scene both steamy and sweet.
Smut in This Book
“I want to be good for you. But I also want to be very, very bad.”
The main spicy scene happens in Chapter 16, around page 330 (depending on your edition).
The scene breakdown:
- Build-up: Slow-burning tension for most of the book
- Main event: One detailed scene that lasts several pages
- Intensity: High heat, explicit language, emotionally charged
How Does The Love Hypothesis Compare to Hazelwood’s Other Works?
Ali Hazelwood’s books have similar spice levels with some variations:
- Love on the Brain – Slightly spicier (4/5)
- The Love Hypothesis – Medium spice (3.5/5)
- Under One Roof – Similar level (3.5/5)
- Spiciest: Love on the Brain
- Mildest: The Love Hypothesis (but only by a small margin)
What Readers Love About This Book
Readers give this book 4.5/5 stars on average. BookTok can’t stop talking about it.
What people love:
- The chemistry between Olive and Adam
- The nerdy science setting
- The emotional depth behind the spice
Some readers wished for more spicy scenes, but most found the balance perfect.
Conclusion
The Love Hypothesis offers the perfect balance of story and steam for most romance readers. It’s not overwhelming with explicit content, but that one scene packs enough heat to satisfy.
What makes this book special isn’t just the spice – it’s how it’s woven into a genuinely compelling story. The chemistry feels earned through character development.
If you love slow burns with a satisfying payoff, this book is for you. Those seeking non-stop steaminess might want something spicier.
Bottom line: This 3.5/5 spice-level book delivers quality over quantity, making it an ideal entry point for readers new to steamier romance while still pleasing veteran romance fans.
