Problematic Summer Romance - Ali Hazelwood

Problematic Summer Romance is a sharp, funny, and swoon-worthy rom-com from Ali Hazelwood, the bestselling author who brought us The Love Hypothesis and Love, Theoretically. Set against the sunlit backdrop of Sicily, this book explores what happens when temptation, timing, and a touch of taboo crash into the summer of a lifetime.

At 23, Maya Killgore is a struggling grad student still figuring life out. Conor Harkness, her older brother’s best friend, is a 38-year-old biotech mogul who embodies everything she shouldn’t want—but can’t resist. Theirs is a dynamic full of crossed lines and unresolved tension, with one major problem: Conor keeps pushing her away.

But when they’re thrown together in a luxury villa for a destination wedding in Taormina, sparks fly, secrets unravel, and resistance falters. Maya decides that if love is messy, a little problematic summer romance might be just what she needs.

Main Themes of the Book

• Age-Gap Romance: Tension and longing across years and experience.
• Brother’s Best Friend Trope: One of romance’s most irresistible setups.
• Destination Love Story: Lush Sicilian scenery, dramatic family dynamics, and wedding chaos.
• Slow Burn with High Stakes: Emotional depth behind all the chemistry.
• Self-Discovery and Growth: Maya’s journey into confidence, desire, and making bold choices.

Why You Should Read This Book by Ali Hazelwood

• Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Christina Lauren, and Abby Jimenez
• A funny, sexy summer romance packed with heart and heat
• Set in Italy—think lemon groves, hidden beaches, and romantic tension
• Signature Ali Hazelwood wit, emotional intelligence, and memorable banter
• Explores taboo and tension in an honest, character-driven way

Problematic Summer Romance is the kind of book that keeps you up too late, smiling too hard, and blushing too much. With clever dialogue, layered characters, and a vacation setting you’ll never want to leave, Ali Hazelwood delivers the ultimate summer escape—a story that’s heartfelt, hilarious, and just the right amount of wrong.