Nicole Lam’s The Boyfriend List is a delightful foray into the world of romantic comedies, offering readers a charming blend of humor, heart, and the complexities of modern relationships. At its core, the novel explores the age-old question of whether love can be planned or if it’s something that simply happens when you least expect it. Through its engaging narrative and well-drawn characters, Lam crafts a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The protagonist, a lawyer with a penchant for planning, decides to apply her professional skills to her personal life. Her methodical approach to finding love is both amusing and relatable, as many readers will recognize the desire to control the uncontrollable aspects of life. The concept of creating a "boyfriend list" is a clever narrative device that not only drives the plot but also serves as a metaphor for the expectations we set for ourselves and others.

One of the standout elements of the novel is its character development. The protagonist is portrayed with depth and nuance, making her journey from a checklist-driven approach to a more open-hearted understanding of love both believable and compelling. Her best friend, London, is equally well-developed, providing a perfect foil to her character. His skepticism about relationships, rooted in his own family experiences, adds a layer of complexity to the story. The dynamic between the two is electric, filled with witty banter and genuine affection, which makes their eventual romantic tension all the more satisfying.

Lam excels in creating a cast of supporting characters that enrich the narrative. Each character, from the protagonist’s disastrous dates to London’s family members, is vividly drawn and contributes to the story’s humor and emotional depth. The interactions between these characters are often laugh-out-loud funny, yet they also provide insight into the protagonist’s evolving understanding of love and relationships.

The themes of the novel are both timeless and timely. The idea of having a plan for everything, including love, speaks to the modern desire for control in an unpredictable world. However, the story ultimately suggests that the best things in life often come when we let go of our rigid expectations. This theme is beautifully illustrated through the protagonist’s journey, as she learns to embrace the unexpected and recognize the value of what’s right in front of her.

Another significant theme is the exploration of friendship as a foundation for romantic love. The transition from friends to lovers is handled with sensitivity and realism, capturing the fear and excitement that accompany such a shift. The novel also touches on the impact of family dynamics on personal relationships, particularly through London’s character, whose reluctance to commit is rooted in his parents’ toxic marriage. This adds a layer of emotional depth to the story, as it explores how past experiences shape our present choices.

In terms of style, Lam’s writing is engaging and accessible, with a knack for witty dialogue and vivid descriptions. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for both comedic moments and more introspective passages. The closed-door nature of the romance ensures that the focus remains on the emotional and intellectual connection between the characters, rather than physical intimacy, making it a suitable read for a wide audience.

Comparatively, The Boyfriend List shares similarities with other contemporary romcoms, such as Sophie Kinsella’s Can You Keep a Secret? and Beth O’Leary’s The Flatshare. Like these novels, Lam’s book combines humor with heart, creating a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. However, Lam’s unique approach to the friends-to-lovers trope, combined with her exploration of the impact of family dynamics on personal relationships, sets her work apart.

Overall, The Boyfriend List is a delightful read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and those who enjoy stories about personal growth and self-discovery. Nicole Lam has crafted a novel that is both funny and heartfelt, with characters that linger in the reader’s mind long after the final page is turned. It’s a testament to the power of friendship, the unpredictability of love, and the importance of being open to life’s surprises. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or new to it, this book is sure to provide a satisfying and uplifting reading experience.