Tara Pammi's Not In Love is a compelling exploration of grief, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. At its core, the novel is a spicy enemies-with-benefits romance that delves into the lives of two seemingly incompatible individuals, Dr. Kashmira Shah and Diego Ferrara, who find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other despite their differences and past judgments.

The narrative begins with Dr. Kashmira Shah, a woman who is still reeling from the tragic loss of her husband and sister in a car accident three and a half years ago. Kash is portrayed as a dedicated professional, teetering on the brink of burnout, who has always been critical of Diego Ferrara, her niece's father. Diego, an ex-soccer star whose career was cut short by a broken ankle, is now focused on being a responsible parent. The tension between Kash and Diego is palpable from the start, with Kash's disapproval of Diego's seemingly carefree attitude clashing with Diego's perception of Kash as overly judgmental.

What sets Not In Love apart is its ability to weave a narrative that is both emotionally charged and deeply sensual. The chemistry between Kash and Diego is electric, and Pammi does an excellent job of building tension through their interactions. The initial animosity between the two characters gradually gives way to a more profound connection, one that is rooted in shared grief and mutual understanding. This transition is handled with care, allowing readers to witness the evolution of their relationship from adversaries to lovers.

The book's setting in a paradisiacal location adds an extra layer of allure to the story. The backdrop of sun-drenched beaches and tropical nights serves as the perfect contrast to the emotional turmoil that both characters are experiencing. It is in this setting that Kash and Diego's relationship takes a turn, beginning with a dare that leads to a night of passion. What was meant to be a one-time encounter quickly spirals into a series of secret hookups, each encounter more intense than the last.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its character development. Kash is a multi-dimensional character whose journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Her struggle with grief and her eventual acceptance of her feelings for Diego are portrayed with authenticity and depth. Diego, on the other hand, is a character who defies initial impressions. Beneath his swagger and charm lies a man who is deeply committed to his daughter and who harbors his own insecurities and regrets. His desire to be a better man for Kash and his daughter adds a layer of complexity to his character.

The themes of grief and healing are central to the narrative. Both Kash and Diego are dealing with their own forms of loss, and their relationship becomes a catalyst for healing. Pammi handles these themes with sensitivity, allowing readers to empathize with the characters' struggles and triumphs. The novel also explores the idea of second chances and the possibility of finding love in unexpected places, a theme that resonates with many readers.

In terms of style, Pammi's writing is both engaging and evocative. Her ability to create vivid imagery and convey complex emotions is commendable. The dialogue between Kash and Diego is sharp and witty, adding an element of humor to the story. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of introspection interspersed with scenes of intense passion.

Comparatively, Not In Love shares similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore the enemies-to-lovers trope. However, Pammi's focus on the emotional depth of her characters and the exploration of themes such as grief and healing set it apart from other works in the genre. Fans of authors like Sally Thorne and Christina Lauren will likely appreciate the blend of humor, romance, and emotional depth that Pammi brings to the table.

Overall, Not In Love is a captivating read that offers a fresh take on the enemies-with-benefits trope. Tara Pammi has crafted a story that is both steamy and heartfelt, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the last page is turned. Whether you're a fan of romance novels or simply looking for a story that explores the complexities of love and loss, Not In Love is a book that deserves a place on your reading list.