Jenny L. Howe’s The Make-Up Test is a delightful foray into the competitive world of academia, where the stakes are high, and the emotions run even higher. This novel is a compelling blend of romance, rivalry, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a prestigious Ph.D. program. It offers readers a nuanced exploration of ambition, love, and the complexities of past relationships.

At the heart of the story is Allison Avery, a fiercely ambitious and driven protagonist who has spent her life striving for academic excellence. Her acceptance into the Ph.D. program at Claymore University is a dream come true, especially since she gets to study medieval literature under a professor she has long admired. However, her excitement is quickly tempered by the unexpected presence of her ex-boyfriend, Colin Benjamin, who is equally competitive and determined to succeed.

The dynamic between Allison and Colin is one of the novel’s most compelling aspects. Their relationship is a fascinating study in contrasts and similarities. Both characters are intensely competitive, and their shared history adds layers of tension and unresolved emotions to their interactions. Howe skillfully navigates their complex relationship, capturing the nuances of their rivalry and the lingering feelings that complicate their academic and personal lives.

One of the novel’s strengths is its exploration of the theme of competition. Howe delves into the pressures and challenges of academia, portraying it as a world where success often comes at the expense of personal relationships. Allison’s struggle to balance her ambition with her personal life is relatable and thought-provoking. The novel raises important questions about the cost of success and the sacrifices one must make to achieve their goals.

In addition to its exploration of competition, The Make-Up Test also delves into themes of forgiveness and second chances. As Allison and Colin are forced to work together, they must confront their past and the reasons for their breakup. The novel beautifully captures the complexity of their emotions, as they navigate the fine line between love and rivalry. Howe’s portrayal of their evolving relationship is both realistic and heartwarming, as they learn to let go of past grievances and open themselves up to the possibility of a future together.

The character development in The Make-Up Test is another highlight. Allison is a well-rounded and relatable protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery is both engaging and inspiring. Her growth throughout the novel is evident, as she learns to prioritize her happiness and make choices that align with her true desires. Colin, too, is a complex character, whose motivations and vulnerabilities are gradually revealed. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and genuine emotion, making their relationship one of the most compelling aspects of the novel.

Howe’s writing is both engaging and accessible, with a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating vivid and relatable characters. The academic setting is richly portrayed, with the pressures and challenges of grad school serving as a fitting backdrop for the story’s exploration of ambition and personal growth. The novel’s pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension and introspection interspersed with lighter, more humorous scenes.

Comparatively, The Make-Up Test shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore the intersection of love and ambition. Fans of Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game or Emily Henry’s Beach Read will likely find much to enjoy in Howe’s novel, as it combines elements of romantic tension and personal growth with a focus on career aspirations and self-discovery.

Overall, The Make-Up Test is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that offers a fresh take on the romance genre. Its exploration of competition, forgiveness, and second chances is both insightful and engaging, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. Jenny L. Howe has crafted a story that is both entertaining and meaningful, with characters that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

In conclusion, The Make-Up Test is a testament to the power of love and the importance of following one’s heart. It is a story that reminds us that sometimes, the greatest victories are not those won in the classroom, but those achieved in the heart. For anyone who has ever struggled to balance ambition with personal happiness, this novel is a poignant and inspiring read.