Andi Burns' The IT Guy is a delightful romantic comedy that explores the complexities of love, age differences, and the challenges of workplace romance. The novel is a refreshing take on the classic office romance trope, infused with humor, charm, and a touch of geek culture that makes it stand out in the crowded field of contemporary romance.

The story revolves around Elaine Madigan, a confident and independent woman who seems to have it all—an enjoyable job, a cozy home, and a beloved cat. However, her life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Simon Walker, the new IT guy at her workplace. Simon is not just any IT guy; he is young, charming, and possesses an irresistible combination of intelligence and good looks, complete with dimples and impressive forearms. Despite her attraction, Elaine is hesitant to pursue anything beyond friendship due to their age difference and her own past relationship failures.

Simon, on the other hand, is smitten with Elaine from the start. He sees beyond her self-imposed barriers and is determined to prove that age is just a number. His mission is to break through Elaine's defenses and show her that he is mature enough for a serious relationship. The narrative unfolds with Simon's persistent yet endearing attempts to win Elaine's heart, all while navigating the tricky waters of office dynamics.

One of the novel's strengths is its character development. Elaine is portrayed as a relatable and multi-dimensional character. Her internal struggle with self-doubt and fear of heartbreak is depicted with authenticity, making her journey towards opening up to love both engaging and believable. Simon, meanwhile, is a breath of fresh air in the romance genre. He is not the typical alpha male hero; instead, he is a tech-savvy, kind-hearted, and patient individual who respects Elaine's boundaries while gently pushing her towards self-discovery.

The chemistry between Elaine and Simon is palpable, and Burns does an excellent job of building tension and anticipation throughout the novel. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and genuine moments of connection, which add depth to their relationship. The author skillfully balances humor and emotion, ensuring that the story remains light-hearted while addressing deeper themes of vulnerability and trust.

The IT Guy also shines in its exploration of themes such as age and maturity. The novel challenges societal norms and stereotypes surrounding age differences in relationships, presenting a nuanced perspective that emphasizes emotional compatibility over chronological age. Burns handles this theme with sensitivity and insight, encouraging readers to reconsider their own preconceptions about love and relationships.

Additionally, the book touches on the theme of self-acceptance. Elaine's journey is not just about finding love but also about embracing her own worth and overcoming her fears. This theme is subtly woven into the narrative, offering readers a message of empowerment and self-discovery.

In terms of writing style, Burns' prose is engaging and accessible, with a conversational tone that draws readers in. Her use of humor is particularly noteworthy, as it adds levity to the story without detracting from its emotional depth. The inclusion of geek culture references, such as Simon's love for Star Wars, adds a unique flavor to the narrative and will resonate with readers who appreciate a touch of nerdiness in their romance novels.

When compared to other contemporary romance novels, The IT Guy holds its own with its unique premise and well-crafted characters. Fans of authors like Penny Reid, known for her smart and quirky romances, will likely find Burns' work appealing. Like Reid, Burns excels at creating relatable characters and infusing her stories with humor and heart.

Overall, The IT Guy is a charming and heartwarming read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and those looking for a fresh take on office romance. Andi Burns has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page. Whether you're a fan of romance or simply looking for a feel-good read, The IT Guy is a book that deserves a spot on your reading list.