Jenny Proctor’s Absolutely Not in Love is a delightful exploration of love, personal growth, and the unexpected ways in which life can surprise us. At its core, the novel is a romantic comedy that deftly balances humor with heartfelt moments, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys a good love story with a twist.

The protagonist, whose voice is both witty and relatable, sets the tone for the novel with her straightforward requirements for a potential partner: “Must love books. Must NOT love hockey.” This seemingly simple criterion is rooted in her past experiences, particularly her complicated relationship with hockey due to her brother's overwhelming presence in the sport. This backstory provides a rich context for her aversion to hockey, making her character's motivations both understandable and sympathetic.

Enter Felix Jamison, the aloof yet intriguing neighbor who seems to defy her expectations. Proctor skillfully crafts Felix as a multi-dimensional character, one who is not just defined by his profession as a hockey player. His love for books and unexpected appearances at symphony concerts add layers to his personality, challenging the protagonist’s preconceived notions and, in turn, the reader’s. Felix’s character serves as a reminder that people are often more than what they appear on the surface, a theme that resonates throughout the novel.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its exploration of personal growth and the courage it takes to confront one’s past. The protagonist’s journey is not just about finding love but also about reconciling with her past and redefining her identity outside of her brother’s shadow. This theme of self-discovery is woven seamlessly into the narrative, providing depth to what could have been a straightforward romantic plot.

Proctor’s writing style is engaging and accessible, with a keen eye for detail that brings the story to life. Her descriptions of the protagonist’s internal struggles are both poignant and realistic, allowing readers to connect with her on a deeper level. The humor sprinkled throughout the novel adds a lighthearted touch, balancing the more serious themes and keeping the narrative engaging.

In terms of character development, Proctor excels at creating dynamic and evolving characters. The protagonist’s initial resistance to Felix is portrayed with authenticity, and her gradual change of heart is handled with subtlety and care. Felix, too, undergoes his own transformation, as he learns to open up and share his world with someone who initially seems so different from him. Their relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding, making it both believable and aspirational.

Comparatively, Absolutely Not in Love shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romances, such as Emily Henry’s Beach Read and Beth O’Leary’s The Flatshare. Like these novels, Proctor’s work explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of personal growth. However, Proctor’s unique blend of humor and emotional depth sets her novel apart, offering a fresh take on the genre.

Overall, Absolutely Not in Love is a charming and insightful read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and character-driven stories. Jenny Proctor has crafted a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you’re a fan of hockey or not, this novel is sure to win your heart with its warmth, wit, and wisdom.

In conclusion, Jenny Proctor’s Absolutely Not in Love is more than just a love story; it’s a journey of self-discovery and the realization that sometimes, the things we think we don’t want are exactly what we need. It’s a reminder that love can be found in the most unexpected places, and that opening our hearts to new possibilities can lead to the most rewarding experiences.