This Time It's Real by Ann Liang is one of those rare books that captivate from the first page and hold on tight until the very last word. The novel, a blend of romance and drama, unfolds the story of Olivia Chen, a mid-level marketing executive who is as skeptical about love as she is skilled at selling products she doesn't believe in. When she meets Ben, a charming pediatrician who seems to tick all the boxes unheard-of in her long list of disastrous exes, Olivia's tightly constructed world of safety measures and checklists starts to fray at the edges.

The beauty of Liang's writing lies not only in the plot but also in her ability to create characters that are relatable, flawed, and yet deeply endearing. Olivia, with her sharp wit and a well-guarded heart, is a protagonist that many will find resonates with them on multiple levels. Her skepticism about love is rooted in past heartache, making her journey towards trusting Ben a compelling central theme of the book. On the other hand, Ben, with his earnest smile and surprising complexity beneath his perfect-on-paper exterior, adds layers to the story that keep the pages turning.

The narrative is full of playful banter and poignant moments that explore not just the budding romance between Olivia and Ben, but also deeper themes such as vulnerability, fear of commitment, and the courage it takes to let go of past hurts. Liang's writing is crisp and engaging, managing to infuse humor and depth into even the most mundane interactions. The dialogue is particularly noteworthy for its authenticity and spark.

The setting of San Francisco is almost a character in its own right, with its foggy mornings and bustling streets providing a romantic backdrop to Olivia and Ben's story. Liang uses the city not just as a mere setting but as a canvas that captures the mood swings of the narrative—from the airy heights of the Coit Tower where pivotal scenes take place, to the cozy, rain-splattered streets that witness the couple's first kiss, each setting is meticulously described and adds to the story's emotional depth.

However, what sets This Time It's Real apart from other works in its genre is not just the central romance but also the strong cast of supporting characters. From Olivia's quirky group of friends to Ben's meddling but loving family, each supporting character is well-drawn, adding humor, conflict, and insights into the main characters' psyche. The dynamics between Olivia and her friends provide a counterpoint to her romantic entanglements, offering both comic relief and wisdom that pushes the narrative forward.

The plot of the novel might tread familiar ground—the ups and downs of a modern-day romance—but the way Liang tells the story makes it fresh and engaging. The obstacles that Olivia and Ben encounter are believable and are tackled with a maturity that is often missing in romantic novels. The resolution, satisfying yet not overly idealized, underscores the novel’s underlying message about the realism of relationships and the work they require.

Critically, This Time It's Real does more than just entertain. It invites readers to reflect on their own perceptions of love and relationships. Through Olivia’s eyes, we are prompted to question the narratives we've accepted about romantic fulfillment and to ponder the possibly revelatory idea that love, like life, is beautiful primarily in its imperfections and unpredictabilities.

Ann Liang's prose is economical yet evocative, achieving an effective balance that seasoned authors strive for. The book is paced in a way that is neither rushed nor slow, capturing the natural progression of relationships. Despite its focus on romantic developments, the book also delves into individual growth, making it a more comprehensive study of human connections.

In conclusion, This Time It's Real is a profound and delightful read that combines the light-heartedness of romantic endeavors with the deeper dives into emotional territories. Ann Liang has crafted a world so vivid and characters so engaging that they linger long after you’ve turned the final page. This book is a recommended pick not only for those who love romance but for anyone who appreciates a well-told story of love, growth, and courage. It’s a compelling reminder that sometimes, despite our best defenses, the best things in life might actually be real.