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Chemistry Lessons #1
Chemistry Lessons
Sometimes the perfect person has been right in front of you all along
Kylie and Regan have been best friends since kindergarten, supporting each other through thick and thin.
While everyone thinks they would be perfect for each other, they insist there’s no chemistry between them—and Regan should know since she’s a chemistry teacher.
To prove it, they agree to a little chemistry experiment: they’ll go on three dates with each other.
So what if their gazes start to linger and accidental touches no longer feel platonic? They chalk it up to the romantic atmosphere—until a friendly good night kiss turns passionate.
Can their friendship go back to the way it was before? Do they even want it to? Or will they risk losing what they have for a chance at love?
73,000 words
Tags: friends to lovers, slow burn romance
Kylie and Regan have been best friends since kindergarten, supporting each other through thick and thin.
While everyone thinks they would be perfect for each other, they insist there’s no chemistry between them—and Regan should know since she’s a chemistry teacher.
To prove it, they agree to a little chemistry experiment: they’ll go on three dates with each other.
So what if their gazes start to linger and accidental touches no longer feel platonic? They chalk it up to the romantic atmosphere—until a friendly good night kiss turns passionate.
Can their friendship go back to the way it was before? Do they even want it to? Or will they risk losing what they have for a chance at love?
73,000 words
Tags: friends to lovers, slow burn romance
ebook
First published August 4, 2021
126 people are currently reading
1615 people want to read
About the author
Jae
126 books3,803 followersJae is the author of twenty-six award-winning romances between women. She lives in the sunniest city of Germany, near the French and Swiss borders. The writing bug bit her at the age of eleven.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
August 2, 2021
Nice and sweet. This book came at the perfect time for me. After reading two books filled with sexism, homophobia, and sexual assault, I really needed something warm and fuzzy and this was the perfect book for that. This is a very low angst, feel-good romance with Jae’s magic touch on it.
It’s hard not to enjoy a good friends to lovers romance and this was a perfect example of one. It’s fun to see the exact moment when the characters start realizing that there may be more than just best friendship on the line and I think Jae nailed this part. This couple was very convincing as best friends so that their connection is already there and when romantic feelings become involved, you absolutely believe it as a reader.
Both characters are very likeable and I loved that they just had normal everyday jobs. I find it very refreshing that Jae will write characters from a famous movie star to a hard working lunch lady, so that you never quite know what to expect but it almost always works. It was also nice to see characters from her previous books make little cameos. And it was especially nice to have the main characters from Wrong Number, Right Woman as pretty important secondary characters. Denny was a favorite character of mine so I was really glad to have her back.
This is going to be a shorter review for me mostly because I don’t really have anything major to discuss or any big issues. Compared to some of Jae’s other books this won’t be a favorite of mine, but there was nothing here that I didn’t like. This book did exactly as promised and delivered a sweet and feel-good romance that I’m happy with. I think Jae fans will enjoy this and I think this would be a good fit for people that just want some warm romance.
A copy was given to me for a review.
It’s hard not to enjoy a good friends to lovers romance and this was a perfect example of one. It’s fun to see the exact moment when the characters start realizing that there may be more than just best friendship on the line and I think Jae nailed this part. This couple was very convincing as best friends so that their connection is already there and when romantic feelings become involved, you absolutely believe it as a reader.
Both characters are very likeable and I loved that they just had normal everyday jobs. I find it very refreshing that Jae will write characters from a famous movie star to a hard working lunch lady, so that you never quite know what to expect but it almost always works. It was also nice to see characters from her previous books make little cameos. And it was especially nice to have the main characters from Wrong Number, Right Woman as pretty important secondary characters. Denny was a favorite character of mine so I was really glad to have her back.
This is going to be a shorter review for me mostly because I don’t really have anything major to discuss or any big issues. Compared to some of Jae’s other books this won’t be a favorite of mine, but there was nothing here that I didn’t like. This book did exactly as promised and delivered a sweet and feel-good romance that I’m happy with. I think Jae fans will enjoy this and I think this would be a good fit for people that just want some warm romance.
A copy was given to me for a review.
July 22, 2021
More than chemistry.
So much oxytocin was released in my brain while I was reading this. But honestly do we expect anything less from Jae? I wouldn’t.
The frequent references to scientific chemistry in this book is cheesy. Oh alright, I admit it’s also cute. But more importantly, this romance is solid. Jae delivered far more than chemistry to us. She gave us a connection between the characters that’s deep, it’s almost perfect. Ky and Regan have been best friends for 25 years and are soulmates. This word isn’t used in the book, but I can’t think of a better word to describe how tight they are and how they complete each other. They know each other in and out, read each other’s thoughts and finish each other’s sentences. They have routines that exclude everyone else, they share food, leave snacks for each other and save a spot for each other’s toothbrushes in their bathrooms.
To everybody else, they are the perfect couple. And yet somehow, they are oblivious to the obvious. It isn’t stubborn denial though. It felt like the Westermarck Effect to me at first but then, I realise it’s more a case of "bottled up" feelings so tucked away they don't even know it exists. That is until they go on “dates” to prove they don't have romantic chemistry and realise they do after all. I marvel at Jae’s ability to keep the mood light and then at the right moments, unleash all the feels. They banter like friends and they love like lovers. And let’s admit it - Dating a best friend isn't like dating other people. There are risks. There are pros and cons. It may take some getting used to and it can get awkward. But Jae tackles the intricacies of dating a best friend so wonderfully.
I also love this little universe that Jae has built for her characters. They cross paths in different books and it's delightful to see some of our old friends being mentioned here.
I enjoyed Chemistry Lessons so much, it has replaced Damage Control as my favourite contemporary romance novel by Jae.
So much oxytocin was released in my brain while I was reading this. But honestly do we expect anything less from Jae? I wouldn’t.
The frequent references to scientific chemistry in this book is cheesy. Oh alright, I admit it’s also cute. But more importantly, this romance is solid. Jae delivered far more than chemistry to us. She gave us a connection between the characters that’s deep, it’s almost perfect. Ky and Regan have been best friends for 25 years and are soulmates. This word isn’t used in the book, but I can’t think of a better word to describe how tight they are and how they complete each other. They know each other in and out, read each other’s thoughts and finish each other’s sentences. They have routines that exclude everyone else, they share food, leave snacks for each other and save a spot for each other’s toothbrushes in their bathrooms.
To everybody else, they are the perfect couple. And yet somehow, they are oblivious to the obvious. It isn’t stubborn denial though. It felt like the Westermarck Effect to me at first but then, I realise it’s more a case of "bottled up" feelings so tucked away they don't even know it exists. That is until they go on “dates” to prove they don't have romantic chemistry and realise they do after all. I marvel at Jae’s ability to keep the mood light and then at the right moments, unleash all the feels. They banter like friends and they love like lovers. And let’s admit it - Dating a best friend isn't like dating other people. There are risks. There are pros and cons. It may take some getting used to and it can get awkward. But Jae tackles the intricacies of dating a best friend so wonderfully.
I also love this little universe that Jae has built for her characters. They cross paths in different books and it's delightful to see some of our old friends being mentioned here.
I enjoyed Chemistry Lessons so much, it has replaced Damage Control as my favourite contemporary romance novel by Jae.
August 11, 2021
Jae’s books are nothing if not reliable. And I mean that in the best possible way. Not as in boring but as in you know what you get. And in Jae’s case, what you get is sweet relatable characters living normal (again, not boring) lives, dealing with normal issues, and, most importantly, falling in love.
Regan and Kylie, or Ky, as only Regan is allowed to call her, have been best friends since kindergarten and keep getting mistaken for a couple. Regan, a chemistry teacher, decides to prove to their friends how impossible it would be for them to be together, in the way she knows best: with an experiment… The results of which will surprise no one but the two of them.
As usual, the characters feel like friends by the end of the book. Regan and Ky are very different and complement each other in ways that make both sides of the story believable: they’re plausible as best friends and they’re plausible as lovers. Regan is small yet formidable, driven, kind, mischievous. Ky is quieter, less sure of herself and of what she wants out of life, still hurting from a childhood that became dramatic all of a sudden. She looks taller and stronger yet is the most vulnerable of the two.
I have to admit, the first words that come to my mind when I think of Jae’s books are sweet, lovely, gentle. I’ll have to add hot for this one. One of the most challenging things about friends-to-lovers romance is to make the change believable. What makes two people who have known and loved each other forever suddenly see the other one in such a different light? What turns unquestionably platonic into lusty? Jae makes it work flawlessly.
Another strong point is the humour, even if the constant chemistry jokes are a tad over the top. They fit Regan, however, so it worked.
Jae delivers once again, with relatable characters and a heartwarming romance.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Regan and Kylie, or Ky, as only Regan is allowed to call her, have been best friends since kindergarten and keep getting mistaken for a couple. Regan, a chemistry teacher, decides to prove to their friends how impossible it would be for them to be together, in the way she knows best: with an experiment… The results of which will surprise no one but the two of them.
As usual, the characters feel like friends by the end of the book. Regan and Ky are very different and complement each other in ways that make both sides of the story believable: they’re plausible as best friends and they’re plausible as lovers. Regan is small yet formidable, driven, kind, mischievous. Ky is quieter, less sure of herself and of what she wants out of life, still hurting from a childhood that became dramatic all of a sudden. She looks taller and stronger yet is the most vulnerable of the two.
I have to admit, the first words that come to my mind when I think of Jae’s books are sweet, lovely, gentle. I’ll have to add hot for this one. One of the most challenging things about friends-to-lovers romance is to make the change believable. What makes two people who have known and loved each other forever suddenly see the other one in such a different light? What turns unquestionably platonic into lusty? Jae makes it work flawlessly.
Another strong point is the humour, even if the constant chemistry jokes are a tad over the top. They fit Regan, however, so it worked.
Jae delivers once again, with relatable characters and a heartwarming romance.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2021
Jae is one of the best lesfic authors and a safe bet when it comes to well-written and entertaining novels. A new book by this author is always a cause for celebration. I’m sure that Chemistry Lessons will be a hit among Jae’s readers.
Regan and Kylie have been best friends since kindergarten and while everyone insists that they’d be the perfect couple, they maintain that they have no chemistry. Regan should know about it as she’s a chemistry teacher. In order to prove everyone wrong, they decide to go on three dates with each other. But what will they do when the chemistry experiment goes out of hand and they actually find out that there might be something else between them?
This is a friends to lovers romance between two very likeable characters that have known each other for most of their lives. For this trope to work well, the characters’ relationship has to develop organically from friends to lovers, something that takes time. Luckily for us readers, Jae is the queen of slow-burn romances and slowly but surely the author builds increasing chemistry between the mains.
Have you ever seen that sometimes people are oblivious to what is in front of their noses? Well, this is what happens to Kylie and Regan, who have been friends for so long that they complete each other sentences, know their favourite foods, understand their quirks, etc. They are made for each other and everyone knows it (including their fleeting partners) but Regan and Kylie have no idea. Tired of being encouraged to date each other, they decide to prove everyone wrong but somehow their experiment does exactly the opposite.
This is a character-driven book and it works really well because both mains are absolutely adorable. I like that Jae doesn’t write larger-than-life people, her characters are usually normal women with ordinary jobs who aren’t rich or extremely attractive. They are people whom you can relate to. Both characters have flaws and emotional baggage that they bring into their new relationship and their difficulties in dealing with their issues are absolutely believable. I guess that’s when being an author with a psychology degree comes in handy. Jae’s characters and their conflicts are never contrived.
Even though the book describes some tough family issues that one of the mains had to go through, the general tone is light, romantic and fun. There are lots of nerdy chemistry analogies and quotes (Regan has a tendency to wear t-shirts with funny chemistry-related jokes) and quite a few amusing situations but if I have to summarise this novel in one word it’d be cute. If you are looking for a summer entertaining read, I recommend it to you. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Regan and Kylie have been best friends since kindergarten and while everyone insists that they’d be the perfect couple, they maintain that they have no chemistry. Regan should know about it as she’s a chemistry teacher. In order to prove everyone wrong, they decide to go on three dates with each other. But what will they do when the chemistry experiment goes out of hand and they actually find out that there might be something else between them?
This is a friends to lovers romance between two very likeable characters that have known each other for most of their lives. For this trope to work well, the characters’ relationship has to develop organically from friends to lovers, something that takes time. Luckily for us readers, Jae is the queen of slow-burn romances and slowly but surely the author builds increasing chemistry between the mains.
Have you ever seen that sometimes people are oblivious to what is in front of their noses? Well, this is what happens to Kylie and Regan, who have been friends for so long that they complete each other sentences, know their favourite foods, understand their quirks, etc. They are made for each other and everyone knows it (including their fleeting partners) but Regan and Kylie have no idea. Tired of being encouraged to date each other, they decide to prove everyone wrong but somehow their experiment does exactly the opposite.
This is a character-driven book and it works really well because both mains are absolutely adorable. I like that Jae doesn’t write larger-than-life people, her characters are usually normal women with ordinary jobs who aren’t rich or extremely attractive. They are people whom you can relate to. Both characters have flaws and emotional baggage that they bring into their new relationship and their difficulties in dealing with their issues are absolutely believable. I guess that’s when being an author with a psychology degree comes in handy. Jae’s characters and their conflicts are never contrived.
Even though the book describes some tough family issues that one of the mains had to go through, the general tone is light, romantic and fun. There are lots of nerdy chemistry analogies and quotes (Regan has a tendency to wear t-shirts with funny chemistry-related jokes) and quite a few amusing situations but if I have to summarise this novel in one word it’d be cute. If you are looking for a summer entertaining read, I recommend it to you. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2021
A solid lesfic romance from the Queen of Women Loving Women stories. Featuring new characters and some cameos from other Jae books - notably Eliza and Denny (And also Heather!) from Wrong Number, Right Woman. Plus plenty of other mentions from Jae's world.
We meet Regan and Kylie, both 30, who have been best friends since they were 5 years old. Regan is bisexual and a Chemistry teacher at a Highschool, with a solid family foundation of Italian-American food lovers, who love and support her, along with Kylie who they've basically adopted as another daughter. Then we have Kylie, whose own family life wasn't as perfect, so she struggles a bit with her insecurities there, but clearly adores Regan's family, and Regan, too. She is a lesbian and works at the highschool cafeteria, but again feels she isn't as smart and capable as she should be, especially in comparison to Regan.
Both women are great friends, doing basically everything together. They have an easy banter and 'knowing' that comes from a place of deep connection - but they insists there's no attraction between them. Despite seemingly acting like an old couple, swapping and stealing food off plates, having movie nights, leaving gifts and snacks for each other and always being each others plus one. No outside relationship has ever stacked up or survived their close bond of friendship. But again they insist, that's all there is. Friendship. But everyone suspects something more.
There's a theme of chemistry with Regans nerdy and quirky love for all things chemical, and lots of fun banter and jokes about components and reactions and other scientific methods which I found charming and amusing. They decide to try and 'date' to prove their friends wrong, only to find themselves scared at the possibilities. Will these two sacrifice a perfectly good friendship on the potential for something more? But what if it ruins everything they already have? The struggles and internal monologues were realistic but not too angsty, and I love the communication these ladies have. I've always said, communication is so damn sexy!!!
Just another classic love story that makes you feel warm and fuzzy and fulfilled by the end, with an entertaining rollercoaster ride of emotions to get there. I think everyone is gonna love it!
We meet Regan and Kylie, both 30, who have been best friends since they were 5 years old. Regan is bisexual and a Chemistry teacher at a Highschool, with a solid family foundation of Italian-American food lovers, who love and support her, along with Kylie who they've basically adopted as another daughter. Then we have Kylie, whose own family life wasn't as perfect, so she struggles a bit with her insecurities there, but clearly adores Regan's family, and Regan, too. She is a lesbian and works at the highschool cafeteria, but again feels she isn't as smart and capable as she should be, especially in comparison to Regan.
Both women are great friends, doing basically everything together. They have an easy banter and 'knowing' that comes from a place of deep connection - but they insists there's no attraction between them. Despite seemingly acting like an old couple, swapping and stealing food off plates, having movie nights, leaving gifts and snacks for each other and always being each others plus one. No outside relationship has ever stacked up or survived their close bond of friendship. But again they insist, that's all there is. Friendship. But everyone suspects something more.
There's a theme of chemistry with Regans nerdy and quirky love for all things chemical, and lots of fun banter and jokes about components and reactions and other scientific methods which I found charming and amusing. They decide to try and 'date' to prove their friends wrong, only to find themselves scared at the possibilities. Will these two sacrifice a perfectly good friendship on the potential for something more? But what if it ruins everything they already have? The struggles and internal monologues were realistic but not too angsty, and I love the communication these ladies have. I've always said, communication is so damn sexy!!!
Just another classic love story that makes you feel warm and fuzzy and fulfilled by the end, with an entertaining rollercoaster ride of emotions to get there. I think everyone is gonna love it!
April 6, 2022
I’ve always enjoyed reading books by Jae. With Chemistry Lesson, there’s just no sparks between us, no chemistry - just pH imbalance for me 😬
August 14, 2022
A little too sweet for my liking. There’s zero angst here so if that’s your thing you’ll love this.
March 3, 2022
A sweet and easy read, not one of my favorites by Jae in the sense that I’m not sure the story will stick with me for a long time, but I enjoyed listening to this.
July 23, 2021
4,5 stars
This was a cute romance.
It was a nice, sweet, drama-free summer read and I thoroughly enjoyed it :)
This was a cute romance.
It was a nice, sweet, drama-free summer read and I thoroughly enjoyed it :)
July 25, 2021
Cute and light romance. Just right for summer reading. Always love Jae’s books.
July 31, 2021
For those of you who enjoy reading friends-to-lovers stories, the next novel you should pick up is Chemistry Lessons by Jae. This is the third in a series of books all written in the same universe with the main characters from each story appearing in some fashion in the next novel. I really like the idea of these connected tales, and appreciated seeing characters I've bonded with in other novels still together and in love.
Leave it to a high school Science teacher to try to prove there is no “chemistry” between herself and her best friend of twenty plus years with a “Science experiment”. That is the premise of the romantic tale of chemistry teacher Regan Romano and school cafeteria worker Kylie Wells. The results of this experiment create a story that is sometimes humorous, always touching, and very romantic.
This is a slow-burn romance which this author is an expert at writing. I admire how Jae begins the story with a bit of…ahem…chemistry between the two main characters, and then we get to watch it grow slowly though the book adding just a bit of angst along the way to make the story more interesting. I’m a sucker for this type of novel.
She is also an expert at creating loveable characters that make the sweetest couples. Regan and Kylie are great examples of this. The secondary characters are quite memorable as well, especially since two of them, Denny and Eliza, are the couple from Jae’s novel, Wrong Number, Right Woman. It was really great seeing them still together and in love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, as I have all of the books I’ve read by Jae. If you love slow-burn, friends-to-lovers, low angst romances, then make sure you read Chemistry Lessons. You can buy the book now at Ylva Publishing.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Leave it to a high school Science teacher to try to prove there is no “chemistry” between herself and her best friend of twenty plus years with a “Science experiment”. That is the premise of the romantic tale of chemistry teacher Regan Romano and school cafeteria worker Kylie Wells. The results of this experiment create a story that is sometimes humorous, always touching, and very romantic.
This is a slow-burn romance which this author is an expert at writing. I admire how Jae begins the story with a bit of…ahem…chemistry between the two main characters, and then we get to watch it grow slowly though the book adding just a bit of angst along the way to make the story more interesting. I’m a sucker for this type of novel.
She is also an expert at creating loveable characters that make the sweetest couples. Regan and Kylie are great examples of this. The secondary characters are quite memorable as well, especially since two of them, Denny and Eliza, are the couple from Jae’s novel, Wrong Number, Right Woman. It was really great seeing them still together and in love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, as I have all of the books I’ve read by Jae. If you love slow-burn, friends-to-lovers, low angst romances, then make sure you read Chemistry Lessons. You can buy the book now at Ylva Publishing.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2022
4.5 stars
This is such a sweet, feel-good listen. No angst, no drama. And Abby Craden narrates. *swoon*
Jae said she set out to write a true friends-to-lovers romance. Sometimes in that trope the MCs are friends for a relatively short while, but in this case both Regan and Kylie have been best friends since childhood. They have always been each other's person, adore one another and are attached at the hip. Kylie is even considered part of Regan's family. But for various reasons, it's never been more than platonic between them. Everyone in their lives - friends and family alike - has been waiting for them to wake up and get a clue. But they don't believe they have chemistry. And as a chemistry teacher, Regan is an expert on the subject. She proposes an experiment. They agree to go on three dates to prove to everyone once and for all that it's just not there. Then everyone will leave them alone about it and they can go on about their lives as usual. But when dinner or movies out is now a "date" and not just two besties hanging out, it brings about a whole new awareness between them.
I love that Jae doesn't feel the need to follow the standard romance formula. There's no great miscommunication or horrible event that throws everything into chaos. There are some personal challenges, sure. But nothing that isn't completely relatable. It's just nice, enjoyable and satisfying.
I like to mix up the lengths of my audiobooks and at just 6-1/2 hours, this was exactly what I was looking for. I liked the book, and enjoyed the audiobook even more.
This is such a sweet, feel-good listen. No angst, no drama. And Abby Craden narrates. *swoon*
Jae said she set out to write a true friends-to-lovers romance. Sometimes in that trope the MCs are friends for a relatively short while, but in this case both Regan and Kylie have been best friends since childhood. They have always been each other's person, adore one another and are attached at the hip. Kylie is even considered part of Regan's family. But for various reasons, it's never been more than platonic between them. Everyone in their lives - friends and family alike - has been waiting for them to wake up and get a clue. But they don't believe they have chemistry. And as a chemistry teacher, Regan is an expert on the subject. She proposes an experiment. They agree to go on three dates to prove to everyone once and for all that it's just not there. Then everyone will leave them alone about it and they can go on about their lives as usual. But when dinner or movies out is now a "date" and not just two besties hanging out, it brings about a whole new awareness between them.
I love that Jae doesn't feel the need to follow the standard romance formula. There's no great miscommunication or horrible event that throws everything into chaos. There are some personal challenges, sure. But nothing that isn't completely relatable. It's just nice, enjoyable and satisfying.
I like to mix up the lengths of my audiobooks and at just 6-1/2 hours, this was exactly what I was looking for. I liked the book, and enjoyed the audiobook even more.
July 29, 2021
This is unquestionably a very sweet and very cute story. With no angst. It's so easy to fall in love with Regan and Kylie. As a bonus we meet again a few old friends: Eliza and Denny, and also Heather, from Wrong Number, Right Woman.
October 3, 2021
You ever been friends with two people who complete each others sentences and seem to spend all or most of their time with each other? And kind of assume more's going on? Well, the two leads of this book are like that - and their friends and family constantly make comments about how they assume/know/whatever that the two leads are a couple. But, in actuality, they aren't.
One comment too many by a friend about how they just have to be a couple, and one of the leads, the chemistry teacher Regan, decides enough is enough. She has this thought while in class setting up a science experiment for her kids to perform (school kids, she doesn't have any kids of her own). What better way to show that she and Ky (or Kylie) don't have chemistry? Set up a chemistry experiment. As in - go on dates, see if they have chemistry.
And so that's what occurs. Ky, school cafeteria worker, and Regan, chemistry teacher, go on dates. Dates that involve food (first at Regan's parent's pizza restaurant (and as their friends rightly point out, having your parents there watching you, occasionally sitting at the same table with you isn't really a good test)), and theater (or film theater - film is based on one of Jae's other books, the one that involved telepathy).
Bah, got distracted watching Marvel's What if.
Right, so, um, the two live long friends date. Find themselves, grow as individuals and as more. Book ends. Good book.
Rating: 3.63
August 12, 2021
One comment too many by a friend about how they just have to be a couple, and one of the leads, the chemistry teacher Regan, decides enough is enough. She has this thought while in class setting up a science experiment for her kids to perform (school kids, she doesn't have any kids of her own). What better way to show that she and Ky (or Kylie) don't have chemistry? Set up a chemistry experiment. As in - go on dates, see if they have chemistry.
And so that's what occurs. Ky, school cafeteria worker, and Regan, chemistry teacher, go on dates. Dates that involve food (first at Regan's parent's pizza restaurant (and as their friends rightly point out, having your parents there watching you, occasionally sitting at the same table with you isn't really a good test)), and theater (or film theater - film is based on one of Jae's other books, the one that involved telepathy).
Bah, got distracted watching Marvel's What if.
Right, so, um, the two live long friends date. Find themselves, grow as individuals and as more. Book ends. Good book.
Rating: 3.63
August 12, 2021
August 26, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It's a friends to lovers story between Regan, a chemistry teacher, and her best friend, Kylie, who works in the school cafeteria. They have known each other since childhood. They're often mistaken for a couple. So Regan decided to conduct an experiment to prove that they don't have chemistry. But, to both their surprise, they discovered that maybe Ms. Right has always been there. As a reader, I want them to be together but also understands the fear they have that they might damage their current relationship.
There's a reason why Jae is one of my favorite authors and this book did not disappoint.
There's a reason why Jae is one of my favorite authors and this book did not disappoint.
August 15, 2021
I was in the mood for a feel-good romance and Chemistry Lessons delivered in a big way. Jae has said that she realized how few true friends to lovers romances were out there and set out to write one. I'm so glad she did! The MCs are "regular" people - Regan, a popular high school chemistry teacher, and her life-long best friend Kylie who works in the school's cafeteria where she teaches. They are so close that they finish each other's sentences and everyone always thought they'd be perfect for each other. But they didn't think they had "chemistry" so never considered being more. After being ribbed about their perfectness for one another one too many times, Regan suggests a little "chemistry" experiment to get people off their backs. They will go out on three dates, which will prove to everyone once and for all that there is no chemistry between them and they are better off as best friends. Or will it?
For those that have read Jae's novels, there are so many wonderful Easter eggs in this book. Characters from her other works are sprinkled throughout and one couple especially made me swoon. (I won't spoil it so you can experience those for yourself.) Kylie has an interesting back story that has affected where she is in life and I appreciated the thoughtfulness of that storyline and how relatable it made her. While I'm a big fan of stories about gorgeous corporate titans and their equally gorgeous love interests, it's also nice to have another story that more people can see themselves in.
Overall, I thought it was a sweet, fun and sexy romance and certainly recommend it. Jae has since released a sweet follow-up companion short story called The Principal's Office, which offers a glimpse into their lives weeks later. 4.5 stars.
For those that have read Jae's novels, there are so many wonderful Easter eggs in this book. Characters from her other works are sprinkled throughout and one couple especially made me swoon. (I won't spoil it so you can experience those for yourself.) Kylie has an interesting back story that has affected where she is in life and I appreciated the thoughtfulness of that storyline and how relatable it made her. While I'm a big fan of stories about gorgeous corporate titans and their equally gorgeous love interests, it's also nice to have another story that more people can see themselves in.
Overall, I thought it was a sweet, fun and sexy romance and certainly recommend it. Jae has since released a sweet follow-up companion short story called The Principal's Office, which offers a glimpse into their lives weeks later. 4.5 stars.
September 30, 2025
2.75⭐️ A light palate cleanser. Sweet, easy, low angst - a bit too “nice” and uncomplicated for me, but a decent brain break.
May 19, 2022
Listened to the audiobook while travelling and I love this book. It's just what I need, a feel good novel with my favourite troupe, friends to lovers. Nothing groundbreaking here, it's been done before a lot but it's Jae, there's something about the way she writes that always leaves me coming back for more. Definitely recommend it!
July 24, 2021
Cute and drama free, a delight!
September 30, 2025
I just love Jae's books - pure class. Never going to change the world, but they entertain and I live her world which makes my live a better place. Thank you.
January 11, 2023
Chemistry Lessons is a short and super cute best friends to lovers romance. Kylie and Reagan have been best friends since they were little. Everyone always thinks they're dating, but they definitely aren't. When mutual friends convince the two to try three dates, they agree. But then Reagan starts feeling a different way about Ky and after one of their dates, kisses her.
This was pretty low angst and low stakes. But it's really cute and I liked the development of Kylie and Reagan's relationship. I also love Reagan's family and how they treat Kylie. It's so loving and supportive. Excited to read the short bonus epilogue!
Rep: white Italian bisexual cis female MC, white lesbian cis female MC with anxiety, various white and queer side characters.
CWs: Sexual content (one chapter). Minor: past death of parent from suicide, grief.
This was pretty low angst and low stakes. But it's really cute and I liked the development of Kylie and Reagan's relationship. I also love Reagan's family and how they treat Kylie. It's so loving and supportive. Excited to read the short bonus epilogue!
Rep: white Italian bisexual cis female MC, white lesbian cis female MC with anxiety, various white and queer side characters.
CWs: Sexual content (one chapter). Minor: past death of parent from suicide, grief.
August 4, 2021
Kylie and Reagan have been best friends for years, and while everyone around them think they'd be perfect together, Reagan is convinced they have no chemistry. After all, she would know, as a chemistry teacher at a local high-school. They decide to prove their friends wrong once and for all and go on three dates, but something about the experiment opens their eyes to feelings that are not so platonic after all. But will they risk their friendship on something more?
I adored this book. It was like a warm hug and I couldn't put it down (RIP sleep). There is something incredible about Jae's characters that make them so very real, that as a reader you form such an intense connection to the characters. You feel every emotion right along with them.
I thought the progression of Kylie and Reagan's relationship, particularly their chemistry was masterfully done, very natural and realistic. The characters were very likeable and down to earth and it was easy to connect with them and their lives. (At the same time Jae can write about movie stars and women in San Fransisco more than a hundred years ago and we will get the same wonderful connection to the characters and their love story.) Reagan's family was wonderful and the incredible food they made certainly had me craving pizza and pasta. This was just an all around cozy story of friendship and love and family. I couldn't recommend it more for anyone who wants to read a book filled with joy and discovery and escape for a few hours. Plus as a scientist myself, I did thoroughly enjoy the chemistry jokes throughout!
I also loved catching up with old friends from Wrong Number, Right Woman. This group of friends really creates a loving and supportive atmosphere that brings the reader into their little group.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I adored this book. It was like a warm hug and I couldn't put it down (RIP sleep). There is something incredible about Jae's characters that make them so very real, that as a reader you form such an intense connection to the characters. You feel every emotion right along with them.
I thought the progression of Kylie and Reagan's relationship, particularly their chemistry was masterfully done, very natural and realistic. The characters were very likeable and down to earth and it was easy to connect with them and their lives. (At the same time Jae can write about movie stars and women in San Fransisco more than a hundred years ago and we will get the same wonderful connection to the characters and their love story.) Reagan's family was wonderful and the incredible food they made certainly had me craving pizza and pasta. This was just an all around cozy story of friendship and love and family. I couldn't recommend it more for anyone who wants to read a book filled with joy and discovery and escape for a few hours. Plus as a scientist myself, I did thoroughly enjoy the chemistry jokes throughout!
I also loved catching up with old friends from Wrong Number, Right Woman. This group of friends really creates a loving and supportive atmosphere that brings the reader into their little group.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2024
A three-date experiment between Kylie and Regan sets the stage for a perfectly sweet, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance. The low angst made it a relaxing read, and both women were genuinely likable. The shorter, 18-chapter format worked really well to keep the pacing on point.
Oddly, I found myself struggling to visualise Kylie and Regan as distinct characters, which hasn’t happened to me before with Jae’s books. I think that’s why I didn’t rate it higher. I eventually stopped trying to separate them and just went along for the ride (yes I am aware that sounds strange). Still, it was a cozy read that I enjoyed overall.
Oddly, I found myself struggling to visualise Kylie and Regan as distinct characters, which hasn’t happened to me before with Jae’s books. I think that’s why I didn’t rate it higher. I eventually stopped trying to separate them and just went along for the ride (yes I am aware that sounds strange). Still, it was a cozy read that I enjoyed overall.
August 21, 2021
6/10
I’ve a feeling like Jae’s such a nice person so I’ve been trying extra hard when it comes to liking her books. Sadly, I don’t think I’m succeeding. Well, that sounds bad, as the rating states - I do like them, I think those I rated with three stars are okay-ish - I just thought I’d love them like I loved Just for Show.*
I never thought I’d find a book too sweet.
Am I a bad person? Possibly.
No, really, though. I’m usually the one that’s all for that teeth rotting sweetness and I thought there’s no thing as too much. Apparently I was wrong because the cuteness in this one feels too forced and very improbable in that served amount. I don’t remember any other real angsty moment beside a minor one.
Even though they have been best friends their whole lives I feel like some things would have to shift. Some things would have to change and it would f*ck a bit with their minds. No? I guess it just didn’t feel realistic enough because of all that lack of even light angst.
Good news is, though, that people who hate the angst will LOVE this book. Go for it, really.
I’ve read a bit of Jae’s books before this one and I was happy about the fact that I knew all theeaster eggs? characters and facts she brought from those books to this one - and there was a lot. Of course, you don’t need to read those first in order to understand this book but it felt nice having a complete picture. I always find it fun when an author builds their own world.
I do like how Jae writes and all the characters are sweethearts so I’m continuing with reading her books!
* buying the paperback as well as soon as I save up some money. That’s one of my favourites!
I’ve a feeling like Jae’s such a nice person so I’ve been trying extra hard when it comes to liking her books. Sadly, I don’t think I’m succeeding. Well, that sounds bad, as the rating states - I do like them, I think those I rated with three stars are okay-ish - I just thought I’d love them like I loved Just for Show.*
I never thought I’d find a book too sweet.
Am I a bad person? Possibly.
No, really, though. I’m usually the one that’s all for that teeth rotting sweetness and I thought there’s no thing as too much. Apparently I was wrong because the cuteness in this one feels too forced and very improbable in that served amount. I don’t remember any other real angsty moment beside a minor one.
Even though they have been best friends their whole lives I feel like some things would have to shift. Some things would have to change and it would f*ck a bit with their minds. No? I guess it just didn’t feel realistic enough because of all that lack of even light angst.
Good news is, though, that people who hate the angst will LOVE this book. Go for it, really.
I’ve read a bit of Jae’s books before this one and I was happy about the fact that I knew all the
I do like how Jae writes and all the characters are sweethearts so I’m continuing with reading her books!
* buying the paperback as well as soon as I save up some money. That’s one of my favourites!
July 30, 2021
friends to lovers!!! the yearning!!! so so good this is what i needed
October 7, 2021
I got a toothache 'cause this was sweet AF!
July 24, 2021
Really enjoyed this book, and was pleasantly surprised at the end to find out this was the same Denny & Eliza from Wrong Number, Right Woman. This book will definitely be in my read again collection. Hoping a audio version is in the works! Another fantastic book by Jae!
August 5, 2021
This book had pure chemistry with my emotions! I feel like I'm always saying this in my reviews when it comes to ones written by Jae but I swear it is the absolute honest truth... I LOVED THIS BOOK! It was sweet, adorable, funny, heart-warming, and also... torture of my heart. I don't think I have ever teared up as much throughout a book as I did this one. I'm a tenderhearted sap. I'm just saying, my eyes stayed misty for most part of the read through. There was nothing dramatic going on even I just...
Regan and Ky were sweet and loveable. I loved their banter and their relationship just on the friend level alone. So when their friends pestered and pestered until the two finally relinquished and decided to start their "chemistry" experiment it had my heart in constant overdrive waiting for the final result.
I once again was giddy to discover all the little cameos of characters from Jae's other books that she so often does. Whether it be a mention or an actual part within the book it just always makes the reads even better. And there were so many in this one that made me smile. :)
This book just really touched my heart right from the start and it was just truly effortless to read and fell in love with the characters right from the start. The only downside to books this good for me is that I read them so quickly that they are over far too soon.
Regan and Ky were sweet and loveable. I loved their banter and their relationship just on the friend level alone. So when their friends pestered and pestered until the two finally relinquished and decided to start their "chemistry" experiment it had my heart in constant overdrive waiting for the final result.
I once again was giddy to discover all the little cameos of characters from Jae's other books that she so often does. Whether it be a mention or an actual part within the book it just always makes the reads even better. And there were so many in this one that made me smile. :)
This book just really touched my heart right from the start and it was just truly effortless to read and fell in love with the characters right from the start. The only downside to books this good for me is that I read them so quickly that they are over far too soon.
January 23, 2023
This is such a cute friends to lovers romance and I really loved listening to it via audio. Abby Craden narrates this perfectly, and it was an easy read that definitely put a smile on my face.
Kylie and Regan have been best friends since kindergarten. Although everyone around them things they would be perfect together, they are both firmly set in the friend-zone. After a friend challenges them to a chemistry experiment, things change and feelings are discovered. It's a slow burn romance but the way Jae slowly develops this is seamless.
There's no angst in this one so it's a great romance to listen to when you're in the need for something light and wholesome.
Kylie and Regan have been best friends since kindergarten. Although everyone around them things they would be perfect together, they are both firmly set in the friend-zone. After a friend challenges them to a chemistry experiment, things change and feelings are discovered. It's a slow burn romance but the way Jae slowly develops this is seamless.
There's no angst in this one so it's a great romance to listen to when you're in the need for something light and wholesome.
April 17, 2024
3.5⭐️.The friends-to-lovers trope is always delicate, but Jae didn’t choose easy mode with childhood friends. She did a pretty good job with Kylie’s character. Her background and touching past explained well why she shut off the possibility of more with Reagan completely. It’s a book about taking risks and forgiveness. I am surprised the book didn’t delve deeper into Kylie and her father’s relationship, but it must have been designed to be a short novel. Reagan, well... she was just really clueless for 25 years. The meddling friends and family were the catalysts Kylie and Reagan needed for their experiment; they were fun and sweet. The book is very easy to read/listen to. It’s not mind-blowing,but with endearing characters and a bunch of chemistry puns, it’s definitely heartwarming, sweet, and angst-free.
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