One-Line Summary:
Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating is a delightful romantic comedy that follows the quirky and lovable Hazel as she navigates the world of dating with the help of her childhood crush, Josh.
Meeting Again: Childhood Friends Reunited
Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating begins with Hazel Bradford, a free-spirited and eccentric woman, attending her first day of a new college semester. There, she unexpectedly bumps into her childhood crush, Josh Im, who is now her new professor. Despite their awkward encounter, they quickly become friends and embark on a journey of self-discovery and love.
The Not-Date Experiment
As Hazel and Josh spend more time together, they realize they have a unique and undeniable connection. However, they both agree that they are not meant to be romantically involved. Instead, they decide to embark on a series of “not-dates” where they set each other up with potential partners. These hilarious and often disastrous encounters only serve to bring Hazel and Josh closer together.
During their not-dates, Hazel and Josh learn more about each other’s quirks, passions, and vulnerabilities. Hazel, known for her love of animals and her tendency to be a little too honest, finds herself falling for Josh’s kind and patient nature. Josh, on the other hand, is drawn to Hazel’s infectious energy and genuine personality. As they navigate the ups and downs of their not-dates, they begin to question their own rules about love and relationships.
Love Conquers All
Despite their initial agreement to remain friends, Hazel and Josh’s undeniable chemistry becomes impossible to ignore. As their feelings deepen, they must confront their fears and insecurities in order to pursue a romantic relationship. However, their journey is not without obstacles. Hazel’s past relationships and Josh’s fear of commitment threaten to tear them apart.
Through their trials and tribulations, Hazel and Josh learn the importance of communication, trust, and acceptance. They discover that love is not about conforming to societal norms or playing by the rules, but rather about embracing one’s true self and finding someone who loves them for who they are.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace your quirks and be true to yourself.
- Love can be found in unexpected places.
- Communication and trust are vital in any relationship.
- Don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue what makes you happy.
“I realize that finding the perfect person isn’t going to be easy for me because I’m a lot to take. I’m loud and I’m opinionated and some people don’t like me. But I have a good heart and I care a lot and I’ll always be honest, and sometimes I’m even funny… and I’m not going to apologize for who I am.”
– Hazel Bradford
In the end, Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating is a heartwarming and humorous tale that reminds us to embrace our quirks, follow our hearts, and never be afraid to take a chance on love. With its lovable characters and delightful storyline, this book is sure to leave readers with a smile on their faces and a renewed belief in the power of love.
