The Soulmate Equation

The Soulmate Equation is a really enjoyable contemporary romance about a single mom and a seemingly unfriendly scientist who are matched by a DNA-based dating app. The story follows the two as they begin a fake dating experience that could become more.

Jessica Davis is a single mom who has decided not to focus on dating until her daughter gets older. Her priority is being a good mom. River Pena is an innovative scientist behind the new dating app GeneticAlly, which claims to be able to match people to their soulmates via DNA analysis. When Jess submits her DNA on a whim, she learns that she is a 98% match with the River, who she knows as an unfriendly, rude café patron that she sees every morning. When the company offers to pay her to explore the match, she begins a fake relationship with River. The focus of the story is whether the two of them actually are compatible. Will they fall in love?

The characters in this book are extremely likable. Jess is a funny, down to earth protagonist. Her independence and dedication are admirable. River, though he seems standoffish, is actually a genuine, likable man. Their chemistry is believable. Secondary characters in this book are perfectly complementary to the main characters. Jess's best friend is hilarious, and her grandparents are so sweet and compassionate. The characters really stand out as an asset to this story.

In terms of plot, the book does a good job of taking subject matter that is a bit unbelievable (matching through DNA) and making it seem realistic. There are some moments when the science and math talk is a bit much, but it is necessary to make the events believable. The conflict that arises to possibly derail the romance is completely believable in the context of the plot. It is not overdone and exaggerated, which I appreciate.

Overall, this is one of Christina Lauren's best books in a while for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and look forward to what they create next!