In Monica Cox's Calculated Love, Dr. Seraphina Jacobs, a brilliant but overwhelmed feminist department chair, finds herself entangled with Gabriel Fauntleroy, a conservative tech billionaire. Seraphina battles a hostile work environment and a demanding family life, while Gabriel, tasked with subtly curbing her influence, secretly uses his groundbreaking compatibility technology to pursue her. Their paths collide in a calculated one-night stand, born from data and driven by hidden agendas. As their passionate encounter challenges both their deeply held beliefs and scientific assumptions, Seraphina and Gabriel must confront their preconceived notions and the unexpected emotional connection that develops, questioning whether their differences will ultimately tear them apart or forge an unexpected love.
Review Calculated Love
Oh my goodness, "Calculated Love" was such a captivating read! From the very first page, I was completely hooked. The premise alone – a fiercely independent, intersectional feminist department chair and a conservative tech billionaire thrown together by a somewhat manipulative scheme – was intriguing enough, but the way Monica Cox developed the characters and their relationship was truly masterful. I found myself constantly wondering how on earth these two incredibly different people, with their clashing viewpoints and strong personalities, would ever find common ground, let alone fall in love.
Seraphina, with her unwavering commitment to social justice and her relentless fight against a hostile work environment, immediately resonated with me. Cox doesn't shy away from depicting the very real and often vile experiences Black women face in professional settings, and that raw honesty was both heartbreaking and incredibly powerful. Seeing Seraphina navigate those challenges, while simultaneously dealing with the burden of caring for her ailing father, made her strength and resilience all the more inspiring. She's a brilliant, funny, and deeply flawed character, and I loved every minute of her journey.
Gabriel, on the other hand, started as a character I found myself both intrigued by and frustrated with. His initial conservative views, particularly his lack of awareness (and at times, seeming dismissal) of systemic racism, were difficult to reconcile with Seraphina's experiences. But this is where Cox’s skill truly shines. Gabriel's journey isn’t a simple conversion; it's a complex and nuanced exploration of personal growth and evolving perspectives. Watching him grapple with his own preconceived notions and ultimately learn to support Seraphina, both professionally and personally, was deeply satisfying. The evolution of his character felt authentic and believable, making him far more than just a typical "enemies-to-lovers" trope.
The romance itself is a slow burn, but the chemistry between Seraphina and Gabriel is undeniable from the start. Their connection, initially sparked by a calculated experiment, evolves into something far deeper and more meaningful. The author masterfully blends the physical attraction with a growing emotional intimacy, creating a believable and deeply moving portrayal of love that transcends differences. And yes, the spice is definitely there! It's not gratuitous; it's interwoven seamlessly into the narrative and adds another layer to their already complex relationship.
Beyond the central romance, "Calculated Love" tackles important themes of racial inequality, the challenges faced by women in STEM fields, and the complexities of family relationships. The book's exploration of these themes is nuanced and thought-provoking, adding significant depth to an already compelling narrative. The pacing is perfect, the dialogue is sharp and witty, and the overall story is both heartwarming and emotionally resonant. It’s a book that stayed with me long after I finished reading it, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating romance with substance and heart.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.58 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 256
- Publication date: 2024
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