Camilla Isley's The Roommate Experiment is a delightful foray into the world of romantic comedy, where the lines between friendship and love blur in the most charming ways. The novel centers around Hunter, a character who has been secretly in love with Dylan, her best friend’s brother, for years. This setup, while familiar, is given a fresh twist by Isley's engaging writing style and the nuanced development of her characters.

At its core, The Roommate Experiment explores the theme of unrequited love and the complexities that arise when personal boundaries are tested. Hunter's journey is one of self-discovery and emotional resilience. Her character is relatable, embodying the universal struggle of harboring feelings for someone seemingly out of reach. Isley crafts Hunter with a blend of vulnerability and strength, making her a protagonist that readers can root for.

Dylan, on the other hand, is more than just the object of Hunter's affection. He is portrayed with depth, carrying his own set of complications that make him a compelling character in his own right. The dynamic between Hunter and Dylan is electric, filled with tension and unspoken emotions that simmer just beneath the surface. Isley does an excellent job of building this tension, keeping readers engaged as they navigate the ups and downs of their evolving relationship.

The novel's setting—a shared living space—serves as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. The proximity forces Hunter and Dylan to confront their feelings, leading to a series of humorous and heartwarming moments. Isley uses this setting to her advantage, creating scenarios that are both entertaining and poignant. The shared sofa bed at Dylan's parents' house, for instance, is a pivotal moment that encapsulates the novel's blend of comedy and romance.

One of the strengths of The Roommate Experiment is its ability to balance lighthearted humor with deeper emotional themes. Isley's writing is witty and sharp, with dialogue that sparkles with authenticity. The humor is never forced, arising naturally from the characters' interactions and the situations they find themselves in. This balance is crucial, as it prevents the story from becoming overly saccharine or melodramatic.

In terms of character development, Isley excels in portraying growth and change. Hunter's journey is particularly well-crafted, as she learns to navigate her feelings and assert her own needs. Her internal struggle is depicted with sensitivity, allowing readers to empathize with her plight. Dylan's character also undergoes significant development, as he grapples with his own emotions and the implications of his relationship with Hunter.

The novel's pacing is well-executed, with a steady build-up to the climax that keeps readers invested. Isley knows how to keep the tension alive, interspersing moments of levity with more serious reflections on love and friendship. The resolution is satisfying, providing a sense of closure while leaving room for readers to imagine the characters' future.

Comparatively, The Roommate Experiment shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels, such as Sally Thorne's The Hating Game or Beth O'Leary's The Flatshare. Like these works, Isley's novel explores the intricacies of close-quarters living and the unexpected bonds that can form as a result. However, Isley's unique voice and her ability to infuse humor into her storytelling set her apart, making The Roommate Experiment a standout in the genre.

Overall, The Roommate Experiment is a charming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and those who enjoy stories about love and friendship. Camilla Isley has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you're a longtime fan of the genre or a newcomer looking for a heartwarming story, The Roommate Experiment is a book that deserves a spot on your reading list.