Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings are a best friend writing duo who write under the pen name Christina Lauren. They are a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, known predominantly for their romance novels. The Soulmate Equation follows Jess Davis, a thirty-year-old single mother and freelance statistician. Jess has been single since the birth of her daughter Juno and has altogether sworn off dating. Nonetheless, when Jess hears about GeneticAlly, a brand-new matchmaking company that claims to find you your soulmate using a DNA equation, she submits her DNA sample. Upon receiving the news that she has an unheard of 98% compatibility score with GeneticAlly’s founder, Jess is forced to reconsider her stance on dating.
The Soulmate Equation is no different from Christina Lauren’s previous novels in that it is both deliciously addictive and entertaining. Despite this, The Soulmate Equation does have one standout merit – its extremely unique plot. Science and romance intermingle in the novel, as Jess and GenticAlly’s founder, Dr River Pena, are brought together by a match in their DNA. In this sense, The Soulmate Equation provides a refreshing break from the stereotypical ‘love at first sight’ trope utilised by the majority of romance novelists. Moreover, Christina Lauren also uses the guise of the light-hearted nature of their plot to explore deeper topics, such as single motherhood and addiction. This gives an element of depth and well-roundedness to an otherwise fluffy, heart-warming romance novel.
However, the loveable characters are what make The Soulmate Equation shine. The characters are well-developed, making them easy to connect with and care about. They are humorous and witty. This is particularly true of Jess’s best friend, Fizz, who we can only hope will reappear as a protagonist in any future Soulmate Equation sequels. Moreover, whilst many romance novels tend to lack chemistry, there is no doubt that genuine chemistry exists between Jess and River. Rather than being cheesy and shallow, their relationship is wholly believable from beginning to end. Jess’s relationship with both her daughter and grandparents also makes the novel particularly enjoyable as each character is as charming as the next.
Overall, the loveable characters and unique plot make The Soulmate Equation the perfect fun summer read.
The Soulmate Equation is available for purchase from 5 August.
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