02 Dec Book Review of An Academic Affair
An Academic Affair: A Riveting Love Story in the World of Literature
When I first laid eyes on An Academic Affair by Jodi McAlister, I felt that familiar flutter of excitement—like discovering a new book in a beloved genre. As an avid lover of rivals-to-lovers stories, the premise of two fierce academic competitors navigating their feelings amidst footnotes and literature was irresistible. Set in both Sydney and Hobart, the vivid Australian backdrop added a delightful touch to the romantic tension, making it all the more palatable. Little did I know that amidst the slow burn and witty banter, I would also walk away having learned what “eucatastrophe” means—now that’s a win-win!
The heart of the story revolves around Sadie Shaw and Jonah Fisher, two academic rivals entrenched in the literature field. When Sadie lands a coveted full-time teaching position that includes the little-known partner-hire clause, she proposes a marriage of convenience that sets the stage for a captivating exploration of their relationship. However, as their rivalry unfolds, it becomes clear that there are deeper emotional currents flowing beneath the surface, creating a deliciously complex dynamic.
One of the standout aspects of An Academic Affair is McAlister’s writing style. The prose felt more elevated than your typical contemporary romance, gripping me with its cleverness and thematic depth. I was particularly charmed by the inclusion of footnotes in Jonah’s chapters—they provided insight into his character that felt both intimate and humorous. However, a small note for those reading using screen readers: navigating back and forth to the footnotes might be a tad challenging, but I found them well worth the effort!
The romance itself is beautifully crafted. As someone who usually finds marriage-of-convenience tropes a bit clichéd, I was pleasantly surprised by the nuanced way it unfolded here. The slow burn between Sadie and Jonah was palpable, and I relished the tension—they truly felt like two people trying to navigate their complicated feelings while battling old rivalries. There were moments when I questioned whether Sadie harbored any real affection for Jonah, which in turn made the eventual connections all the more rewarding. It’s a delicate dance of yearning, patience, and character growth that deepened my investment in their story.
Yet, while the romance succeeded beautifully, I did feel some of the conflict resolutions fell a bit short. The miscommunication between Sadie and her sister Chess, which acts as a central emotional conflict, felt prolonged past the point of believability. Similarly, the workplace politics woven into the narrative ultimately wrapped up too quickly, leaving me wishing for more closure.
That said, An Academic Affair is not just about romance; it offers profound lessons in family dynamics and emotional healing. Jonah’s evolving relationship with his sister Fi highlights the transformative power of connection, while Sadie’s bond with her sister Chess echoes the loyalty and conflict that often accompany familial ties. These emotional threads added significant depth to the story, elevating it beyond mere romantic escapism.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend An Academic Affair to anyone who delights in clever literary references, character-driven narratives, or the thrill of slow-burn romance—especially set against the charming backdrop of academia. McAlister crafts a reflective, witty love story that lingers long after the last page is turned. Overall, this book left me with a warm feeling and a spark of curiosity to explore more about the intricacies of love, life, and literature. Thank you, NetGalley, Atria Books, and Jodi McAlister, for this delightful early read!
Mark your calendars for November 11, 2025—this is one you won’t want to miss!
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