Josh & Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating Review

Cute!

This was my second foray into Christina Lauren’s work and I was pleasantly surprised. Because I had loved The Unhoneymooners so much I tried not to set my expectations too high because I didn’t want to be disappointed but I really loved this read!

Hazel and Josh went to college together and though they never dated Josh sure got an eyeful of Hazel when he walked in on her with one of his room-mates. She also puked on his shoes and wrote him a confession via email when she was high on medication after having her wisdom teeth out. Ten years later life throws them back together and they try their absolute best to not end up with each other!

I really vibed with Hazel’s character. I loved her spontaneous nature and her willingness to just be herself and not care what other people think. But at the same time she was aware of the fact that maybe some people might not be able to understand her or tolerate her behaviour without being embarrassed. Her arc was subtle but still important in the context of the story. She distanced herself from potential partners for so long because of her personality, especially when she reunited with Tyler; she reverted back to how she was making excuses for his remarks and dimming herself. I loved when she finally just told him to go f*ck himself, and decided that she was enough and wouldn’t change herself to be with someone else.

I think Josh contrasted perfectly with Hazel. Their banter especially was super entertaining to read. He came across as quite rigid and reserved at the start of the book. He’s very organised whereas Hazel is like a tornado ripping through everything. I liked how we see him gradually get more comfortable around Hazel especially when they are thrown together so much and he is kind of forced to deal with her. It’s definitely cute to see him try to be standoffish with her but she still worms her way into his life whether he likes it or not.

The book was very fast paced and engaging, I finished it in like one sitting. I liked the diversity in the characters and I think they came across as quite relatable. I don’t think the premise was really all that unique but the execution of the plot was just right for me. I think the ending was a little too perfect in a way, but I was invested enough that I was happy with the outcome!

⭐️5/5 stars I cringed, I laughed, I swooned, all the feels!