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Love in the Lab
She’s determined to avoid distraction, no matter how good he may look in a lab coat.
Molly Delaney sticks to three straightforward rules to remain focused on her coastal environmental science research in New Orleans. Stay in the lab, stay on schedule, and stay away from distractions—especially dating.
Then the first and second rules are washed out to sea when her archnemesis, Jonathan, is paired with her for fieldwork outside the lab. She can still stick to the third rule, though—Jonathan’s charm and stupidly handsome face are not enough to tempt her. Especially when he insists on distracting her from work with childish pranks.
As they spend time together outside the lab and off schedule, she learns that he is also thoughtful, protective, and intent on getting her to leave her microscope behind for some much-needed fun.
But Molly knows how this ends. She can’t let her own distractibility jeopardize her research. Not again.
Love in the Lab is a closed door/just kisses, enemies to lovers, workplace romcom featuring two nerdy scientists and ADHD representation. It’s the second book in the interconnected Delaneys in Love series, but may be read as a standalone.
Molly Delaney sticks to three straightforward rules to remain focused on her coastal environmental science research in New Orleans. Stay in the lab, stay on schedule, and stay away from distractions—especially dating.
Then the first and second rules are washed out to sea when her archnemesis, Jonathan, is paired with her for fieldwork outside the lab. She can still stick to the third rule, though—Jonathan’s charm and stupidly handsome face are not enough to tempt her. Especially when he insists on distracting her from work with childish pranks.
As they spend time together outside the lab and off schedule, she learns that he is also thoughtful, protective, and intent on getting her to leave her microscope behind for some much-needed fun.
But Molly knows how this ends. She can’t let her own distractibility jeopardize her research. Not again.
Love in the Lab is a closed door/just kisses, enemies to lovers, workplace romcom featuring two nerdy scientists and ADHD representation. It’s the second book in the interconnected Delaneys in Love series, but may be read as a standalone.
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
10 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Julie Milo
4 books16 followersJulie Milo spends most of her time reading and writing. When she’s not reading and writing scholarly stuff for her day job, she’s reading romance, nonfiction, and literary fiction for fun. She writes closed door/kisses only (also called “sweet”) romantic comedies.
Julie was raised, but not born, in Florida where she started dictating stories to her parents before she even knew how to write. By kindergarten she was writing and illustrating picture books and subjecting her classmates to read alouds at school. While the illustrating did not stick (her drawing skills never evolved past about third grade), the writing did, and for most of her childhood, her answer to “What do you want to be when you grow up?” was “an author.” Returning to writing decades later is a dream come true, and Julie is proud to finally be able to call herself an author.
Julie currently lives on the Gulf coast of Florida with her thoughtful husband, two amazing children, and two dogs (one delightful pit bull and one very energetic black lab). She loves dessert and hates cold weather.
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June 17, 2025GENRE
-rom-com
CONTENT
-🤬: mild language (4d, 3 h)
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: strained relationship with parent
This is the first of Julie's books that I read. I had the privilege of proofreading it, and after doing so, I will definitely be going back to read the first book in the series, Love in the Stacks.
Molly and Jonathan are both coastal environmental scientists. They both work in a lab in New Orleans. Molly has ADHD and has very rigid boundaries in place for herself to help curb her impulsivity. She has basically internalized that the symptoms of her ADHD make it impossible for her to be loved. When she's assigned to work on fieldwork with Jonathan and finds herself forced to spend time with him, her feelings of hate turn into something...different.
This book was unique because of the careers of the MCs. It was evident that Julie did a lot of research into coastal environmental science, but things were explained in a way that didn't lose you (the reader) or make your eyes glaze over. It was beautifully done, honestly. I also felt like the ADHD representation was phenomenal.
I'm very intrigued about Olivia's story because there was definitely a bit of foreshadowing going on!
This story releases on August 26th, and it should be on your radar!
-rom-com
CONTENT
-🤬: mild language (4d, 3 h)
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: strained relationship with parent
This is the first of Julie's books that I read. I had the privilege of proofreading it, and after doing so, I will definitely be going back to read the first book in the series, Love in the Stacks.
Molly and Jonathan are both coastal environmental scientists. They both work in a lab in New Orleans. Molly has ADHD and has very rigid boundaries in place for herself to help curb her impulsivity. She has basically internalized that the symptoms of her ADHD make it impossible for her to be loved. When she's assigned to work on fieldwork with Jonathan and finds herself forced to spend time with him, her feelings of hate turn into something...different.
This book was unique because of the careers of the MCs. It was evident that Julie did a lot of research into coastal environmental science, but things were explained in a way that didn't lose you (the reader) or make your eyes glaze over. It was beautifully done, honestly. I also felt like the ADHD representation was phenomenal.
I'm very intrigued about Olivia's story because there was definitely a bit of foreshadowing going on!
This story releases on August 26th, and it should be on your radar!
August 23, 2025
So like, this is a nice STEM romance. It has everything, nerdy awkward scientists, a mention of most popular American wedding destination (aka Vegas), and somewhat strained relationship with parents.
• The field they study, Coastal Environment is very close to what I studied for my Bachelors so, it was closer to me, the theme.
• Safe to say my parents and professors can read this review because it's very no-spice.
• Doesn't mean they just hold hands or something. They have insane chemistry.
• Jonathan is an obvious walking green forest of flags (massive ones). He's encouraging and caring and even if he's dealing with his personal stuff he'll still leave everything to come restock your fridge (May that kind of love knock my door and restock my heart fridge)
• Molly is, well Molly is me. But with less issues. I too struggle with distractions and let's just say I get her to a molecular level.
• I'm super impressed with the choices these characters make half way through the book. It was a punch to the jaw but like in a good way. Say like getting punched by Jennifer Lawrence. JK.
I liked it. A lot.
• The field they study, Coastal Environment is very close to what I studied for my Bachelors so, it was closer to me, the theme.
• Safe to say my parents and professors can read this review because it's very no-spice.
• Doesn't mean they just hold hands or something. They have insane chemistry.
• Jonathan is an obvious walking green forest of flags (massive ones). He's encouraging and caring and even if he's dealing with his personal stuff he'll still leave everything to come restock your fridge (May that kind of love knock my door and restock my heart fridge)
• Molly is, well Molly is me. But with less issues. I too struggle with distractions and let's just say I get her to a molecular level.
• I'm super impressed with the choices these characters make half way through the book. It was a punch to the jaw but like in a good way. Say like getting punched by Jennifer Lawrence. JK.
I liked it. A lot.
August 30, 2025
A solid 4.5 (rounded to 5)! This was a cute rom-com where you feel like you are just following the characters along in their day to day love story. I appreciated the realistic depiction of the main characters, and the neurodivergence accuracy. As someone who has a similar work-life with research, publications, conferences, etc, I valued the attention to detail and the author's research that went into it.
Loved that you get the character development, relationship build, family and work dynamics-- all the good things-- but without the usual hallmarky formula of: buildup, blowup, makeup, kiss, the end. There were fun plot surprises. I laughed out loud, smiled, talked to the characters a lot, teared up at one point- all the things you want from a sweet romcom like this. Leaves me wanting to go back and reread the first of the series again.
Thanks to the author for the ARC of this book.
Loved that you get the character development, relationship build, family and work dynamics-- all the good things-- but without the usual hallmarky formula of: buildup, blowup, makeup, kiss, the end. There were fun plot surprises. I laughed out loud, smiled, talked to the characters a lot, teared up at one point- all the things you want from a sweet romcom like this. Leaves me wanting to go back and reread the first of the series again.
Thanks to the author for the ARC of this book.
August 23, 2025
First impression about MCs - reverse grumpy sunshine.
Molly is bright, excellent. She likes to be comfortable and practical, one would think she's eccentric, quirky. She's focused on work, family and doesn't want to be distracted by a cute archnemesis. Jonathan is good, lighthearted, becomes head over heals infatuated with Molly. He wants for her to have more fulfilling life.
This book made me smile this week. I grinned at their pranks, romancing.
Finally stumbled on a book where is mentioned AoGG. Not to overshadow MMC I won't gush about wonderful GB.
I received an ARC for a review.
Molly is bright, excellent. She likes to be comfortable and practical, one would think she's eccentric, quirky. She's focused on work, family and doesn't want to be distracted by a cute archnemesis. Jonathan is good, lighthearted, becomes head over heals infatuated with Molly. He wants for her to have more fulfilling life.
This book made me smile this week. I grinned at their pranks, romancing.
Finally stumbled on a book where is mentioned AoGG. Not to overshadow MMC I won't gush about wonderful GB.
I received an ARC for a review.
August 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this second book from the Delaneys in Love series. This book stands out from many other romcom books in that both main characters have STEM jobs and I loved that! It was geeky without being off-putting for non geeky people and you could tell the author did a lot of research. Jonathan was adorable and so likable, green flags everywhere, and watching him help Molly find more joy and love was so sweet. The ADHD representation was fantastic. Molly was quirky and so loveable. I can’t wait to read Olivia’s story next.
February 19, 2026
“Kissing Molly was a perfect moment. We have so few of those in life, don’t we? Moments where we’re intensely present, deliciously engaged, and thoroughly happy. When Molly kissed me, though, that’s where I was.”
I loved this! These two were so cute together. I liked Jonathan because he acted, thought and communicated like a man without being disrespectful (which is often the case with MMCs, especially when there’s any type of inner monologue.) He was smitten, attentive and kind. He looked out for Molly, but also encouraged her independence even when her ADHD made things difficult. I like that when she pushed him away, he didn’t give up but he also didn’t pressure her and I appreciated that he apologized when he didn’t get something right.
I liked how Molly was so smart and dedicated to her job. I liked that she pushed herself out of her comfort zone with work and in her personal life and how she took risks even when something went against “her plan” and made her uncomfortable.
While the “she hates me” tension at the beginning felt a bit manufactured and unnecessary and parts of the last half dragged a bit with all the work and family drama, I enjoyed how these two put time and effort into getting to know each other. It was fun getting to see their full relationship progression and spend time with them IN the relationship verses just seeing the start of it.
My favorite parts were the sticky note prank, time on the boat, the hurricane kiss and the Halloween parade.
I loved this! These two were so cute together. I liked Jonathan because he acted, thought and communicated like a man without being disrespectful (which is often the case with MMCs, especially when there’s any type of inner monologue.) He was smitten, attentive and kind. He looked out for Molly, but also encouraged her independence even when her ADHD made things difficult. I like that when she pushed him away, he didn’t give up but he also didn’t pressure her and I appreciated that he apologized when he didn’t get something right.
I liked how Molly was so smart and dedicated to her job. I liked that she pushed herself out of her comfort zone with work and in her personal life and how she took risks even when something went against “her plan” and made her uncomfortable.
While the “she hates me” tension at the beginning felt a bit manufactured and unnecessary and parts of the last half dragged a bit with all the work and family drama, I enjoyed how these two put time and effort into getting to know each other. It was fun getting to see their full relationship progression and spend time with them IN the relationship verses just seeing the start of it.
My favorite parts were the sticky note prank, time on the boat, the hurricane kiss and the Halloween parade.
November 23, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me.
The romance was very fast pace, I expected a little of a slow pace as this was labeled as enemies to lovers, actually the “enemies” ( it was more like rivalry) was one sided, only from Mollys POV as she believed that Jonathan was a threat to her routine and rules but it was rushed and wasn’t explored enough, I felt like it was passed over way too quickly + I didn’t feel any connection towards the characters or the plot :(
On the other hand, I really do appreciate the research that went into this book, you can tell by reading the scientific parts that good research was done which I deeply admired🙂↕️
Thank you Julie Milo for the ARC!
Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me.
The romance was very fast pace, I expected a little of a slow pace as this was labeled as enemies to lovers, actually the “enemies” ( it was more like rivalry) was one sided, only from Mollys POV as she believed that Jonathan was a threat to her routine and rules but it was rushed and wasn’t explored enough, I felt like it was passed over way too quickly + I didn’t feel any connection towards the characters or the plot :(
On the other hand, I really do appreciate the research that went into this book, you can tell by reading the scientific parts that good research was done which I deeply admired🙂↕️
Thank you Julie Milo for the ARC!
August 28, 2025
STEM MCs: PhD coastal environmental scientists
This was a cute STEM romance. I absolutely love that her cat’s name is Beaker! Double bonus points for it being a childfree romance as well. I had some issues with how quickly and easily things progressed between them both personally and professionally, and I do realize that this is a romance novel and everything ends well, but things just seemed too easy. I did absolutely love the steady, persistent, and nonjudgmental presence that he was for her with her ADHD. I kind of hated how emotionally immature he was about his family situation, but I did appreciate how she called him out and he admitted his faults about it. Please be sure to read the content/trigger warnings before starting, especially if you have hurricane related PTSD like most Gulf Coasters do. I’m sorry… you’re literally in a life or death situation with time running out and you stop to make out? I’m not buying it. You’ve obviously never been on the water when a hurricane is coming because that is not something that would ever happen. My anxiety was super high during these chapters, but it wasn’t unmanageable.
Ok, time to be a nit picky New Orleanian reading a book set in Nola. First of all, there are so many universities that could have been spoofed for this, but New Orleans State University in the middle of downtown is a weird choice, especially when UNO exists on the lakefront where they actually do coastal environmental science. Second, they basically only eat at Cafe beignet, which is the most touristy tourist food you could get. Not even Cafe du Monde or Morning Call… I mean if you want legit red beans and rice at a beignet place morning call is it, not Cafe Beignet. Odd choice. Not to mention the million other local spots that could have been chosen for local food. And who gets excited for red beans that are dry and not creamy?! That sounds horrible! Sorry, this didn’t lower the star rating for the romance, but it was incredibly distracting for me.
This book can definitely be read as a stand alone even though it’s the second in the series. This is the first book I’d read by this author and I had no issue following along. It was well written with a very quickly resolved plot, and it is closed door with kissing only.
3.5 stars
This was a cute STEM romance. I absolutely love that her cat’s name is Beaker! Double bonus points for it being a childfree romance as well. I had some issues with how quickly and easily things progressed between them both personally and professionally, and I do realize that this is a romance novel and everything ends well, but things just seemed too easy. I did absolutely love the steady, persistent, and nonjudgmental presence that he was for her with her ADHD. I kind of hated how emotionally immature he was about his family situation, but I did appreciate how she called him out and he admitted his faults about it. Please be sure to read the content/trigger warnings before starting, especially if you have hurricane related PTSD like most Gulf Coasters do. I’m sorry… you’re literally in a life or death situation with time running out and you stop to make out? I’m not buying it. You’ve obviously never been on the water when a hurricane is coming because that is not something that would ever happen. My anxiety was super high during these chapters, but it wasn’t unmanageable.
Ok, time to be a nit picky New Orleanian reading a book set in Nola. First of all, there are so many universities that could have been spoofed for this, but New Orleans State University in the middle of downtown is a weird choice, especially when UNO exists on the lakefront where they actually do coastal environmental science. Second, they basically only eat at Cafe beignet, which is the most touristy tourist food you could get. Not even Cafe du Monde or Morning Call… I mean if you want legit red beans and rice at a beignet place morning call is it, not Cafe Beignet. Odd choice. Not to mention the million other local spots that could have been chosen for local food. And who gets excited for red beans that are dry and not creamy?! That sounds horrible! Sorry, this didn’t lower the star rating for the romance, but it was incredibly distracting for me.
This book can definitely be read as a stand alone even though it’s the second in the series. This is the first book I’d read by this author and I had no issue following along. It was well written with a very quickly resolved plot, and it is closed door with kissing only.
3.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW ✨📚
Love in the Lab by Julie Milo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Thank you to Julie Milo for a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Molly swears she hates fellow scientist Jonathan… or at least that’s what she tells herself. With ADHD and a rigid work routine, she believes cutting out distractions — including Jonathan’s handsome smirks — is the only way to succeed in the lab.
Jonathan has always admired Molly —her intelligence, her beauty, her drive. When they’re forced to work together in the field, his crush grows into something much deeper. Now, he has to prove to Molly that he is worth the distraction from her work, and she is worthy of being loved in the way only he can.
If I had to sum up this book in one word, it would be adorable. These arch-nemesis (from Molly's perspective) were never rivals at work, as is typically the case in most STEM romances. Jonathan's winks and smirks annoyed Molly, making them more enemies-lite than anything. I like this because it makes it easier to believe they would fall in love as quickly as they did. I lived for their prank war. It was silly and sweet rather than mean, showing a playful side to normally very serious Molly. I also loved any time they went out on the boat together for field work. Both of them are so happy on the water, I couldn't help but feel happy too.
That isn't to say that there isn't drama in the book. Jonathan has had a rough relationship with his dad since his parents divorced when he was a child. Molly struggles with her ADHD and how she lets it inform her personality. A real strength of the story is that both characters lean on each other during the tough times rather than have the dreaded third-act breakup.
If you want a sweet, closed-door romance featuring women kicking butt in STEM, add Love in the Lab to your TBR!
For fans of: 😏 Enemies to lovers | 💼 Workplace romance | 💘 He falls first | 👩🔬 Women in STEM | 🧠 ADHD rep
#ARCReview #LoveInTheLab #JulieMilo #RomanceBooks #EnemiesToLovers #WorkplaceRomance #HeFallsFirst #WomenInSTEM #ADHDRepresentation #ClosedDoorRomance
Love in the Lab by Julie Milo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Thank you to Julie Milo for a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Molly swears she hates fellow scientist Jonathan… or at least that’s what she tells herself. With ADHD and a rigid work routine, she believes cutting out distractions — including Jonathan’s handsome smirks — is the only way to succeed in the lab.
Jonathan has always admired Molly —her intelligence, her beauty, her drive. When they’re forced to work together in the field, his crush grows into something much deeper. Now, he has to prove to Molly that he is worth the distraction from her work, and she is worthy of being loved in the way only he can.
If I had to sum up this book in one word, it would be adorable. These arch-nemesis (from Molly's perspective) were never rivals at work, as is typically the case in most STEM romances. Jonathan's winks and smirks annoyed Molly, making them more enemies-lite than anything. I like this because it makes it easier to believe they would fall in love as quickly as they did. I lived for their prank war. It was silly and sweet rather than mean, showing a playful side to normally very serious Molly. I also loved any time they went out on the boat together for field work. Both of them are so happy on the water, I couldn't help but feel happy too.
That isn't to say that there isn't drama in the book. Jonathan has had a rough relationship with his dad since his parents divorced when he was a child. Molly struggles with her ADHD and how she lets it inform her personality. A real strength of the story is that both characters lean on each other during the tough times rather than have the dreaded third-act breakup.
If you want a sweet, closed-door romance featuring women kicking butt in STEM, add Love in the Lab to your TBR!
For fans of: 😏 Enemies to lovers | 💼 Workplace romance | 💘 He falls first | 👩🔬 Women in STEM | 🧠 ADHD rep
#ARCReview #LoveInTheLab #JulieMilo #RomanceBooks #EnemiesToLovers #WorkplaceRomance #HeFallsFirst #WomenInSTEM #ADHDRepresentation #ClosedDoorRomance
August 23, 2025
Thank you to the author Julie Milo for trusting me with an ARC of her book!
This book follows Molly Delaney and Jonathan Stanch, both scientists at the same university in New Orleans. Molly has ADHD and has her schedule all mapped out with no distractions. That is, until her boss makes her do field work with Jonathan. At first she finds him annoying, but then their chemistry threatens to throw off her carefully planned life.
This was such a cute, nerdy love story! I loved the ADHD rep and thought it was done very well! I think Julie does a great job representing different types of characters in her books. I loved how Molly was so set in her ways but Jonathan helped her to get out of her comfort zone a little. He didn’t want to change her, but helped her see life a different way. He was such a green flag.
“Even if she never reconsiders us being together, I desperately want her to believe she's worthy of an amazing partner- someone who loves, respects, and supports her—if she wants one.”
—That was Jonathan’s thoughts about Molly before they were together 😭🥹 I just adored Jonathan so much! I love a man who just wants to make his woman feel good about herself without anything in return.
I recommend both Love in the Stacks and Love in the Lab! They are both sweet, nerdy romances that will have you swooning and will melt your heart 💖
No spice- kissing only
This book follows Molly Delaney and Jonathan Stanch, both scientists at the same university in New Orleans. Molly has ADHD and has her schedule all mapped out with no distractions. That is, until her boss makes her do field work with Jonathan. At first she finds him annoying, but then their chemistry threatens to throw off her carefully planned life.
This was such a cute, nerdy love story! I loved the ADHD rep and thought it was done very well! I think Julie does a great job representing different types of characters in her books. I loved how Molly was so set in her ways but Jonathan helped her to get out of her comfort zone a little. He didn’t want to change her, but helped her see life a different way. He was such a green flag.
“Even if she never reconsiders us being together, I desperately want her to believe she's worthy of an amazing partner- someone who loves, respects, and supports her—if she wants one.”
—That was Jonathan’s thoughts about Molly before they were together 😭🥹 I just adored Jonathan so much! I love a man who just wants to make his woman feel good about herself without anything in return.
I recommend both Love in the Stacks and Love in the Lab! They are both sweet, nerdy romances that will have you swooning and will melt your heart 💖
No spice- kissing only
August 30, 2025
I give this 4 1/2 Stars!
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a closed door workplace romance book and part of the Delaneys in Love series. The main characters are Jonathan and Molly. They are both scientists but enemies. When they are partnered up to work together how will things go? They are opposites as Molly is focused on work and doesn’t know how to have fun while Jonathan is more laid back and fun. When they start spending time together outside of work will Molly realize there is more in life than just working? Molly doesn’t do relationships as her work comes first. Will she open her heart to Jonathan? I was so excited to read this book as I love nerdy people in books. I was not disappointed. I loved watching Jonathan and Molly together not just working but outside work. I loved the pranks they pulled on each other. Most of the time it takes me time to like atleast one main character but that really wasn’t the case in this book as I loved both of them. I enjoyed all of the side characters especially her sisters that we met in the first book. I think this one is probably my favorite in the series so far. I also loved how we have multiple epilogues. Overall, this was a great book and I can’t wait to read the next one.
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a closed door workplace romance book and part of the Delaneys in Love series. The main characters are Jonathan and Molly. They are both scientists but enemies. When they are partnered up to work together how will things go? They are opposites as Molly is focused on work and doesn’t know how to have fun while Jonathan is more laid back and fun. When they start spending time together outside of work will Molly realize there is more in life than just working? Molly doesn’t do relationships as her work comes first. Will she open her heart to Jonathan? I was so excited to read this book as I love nerdy people in books. I was not disappointed. I loved watching Jonathan and Molly together not just working but outside work. I loved the pranks they pulled on each other. Most of the time it takes me time to like atleast one main character but that really wasn’t the case in this book as I loved both of them. I enjoyed all of the side characters especially her sisters that we met in the first book. I think this one is probably my favorite in the series so far. I also loved how we have multiple epilogues. Overall, this was a great book and I can’t wait to read the next one.
August 25, 2025
A sweet story about two semi-rival research scientists who are forced to work together to foster collaboration and big ideas. Molly is a driven intellectual who avoids relationships because of her struggles with ADHD. Jonathan is a master of scientific field work and has serious golden retriever energy.
What begins as a contentious working relationship quickly turns into a silly office prank war as Jonathan tries to get Molly to loosen up and enjoy life a little. I like that the book doesn't end right after they fall for each other. We are able to sit with the relationship for a while and watch it blossom, see them grow both individually and as a couple. They both have their own personal issues that the other is able to help them manage and work through. If you love a nerdy romance, give this one a try! You can read it on its own, but I recommend reading Love in the Stacks first to get the full story!
More to Love:
🔬Dual POV
🥼Office romance
🧬Prank wars
🔬Frienemies to more
🥼He falls first
🧬Clever nicknames
🔬Supportive family
🥼Carrots
🧬The sticky notes
🔬The hair tie 😭🤌🏼
Content:
💕: kisses
⚠️: strained family relationship, mild hurricane
4.5/5 ❤️
What begins as a contentious working relationship quickly turns into a silly office prank war as Jonathan tries to get Molly to loosen up and enjoy life a little. I like that the book doesn't end right after they fall for each other. We are able to sit with the relationship for a while and watch it blossom, see them grow both individually and as a couple. They both have their own personal issues that the other is able to help them manage and work through. If you love a nerdy romance, give this one a try! You can read it on its own, but I recommend reading Love in the Stacks first to get the full story!
More to Love:
🔬Dual POV
🥼Office romance
🧬Prank wars
🔬Frienemies to more
🥼He falls first
🧬Clever nicknames
🔬Supportive family
🥼Carrots
🧬The sticky notes
🔬The hair tie 😭🤌🏼
Content:
💕: kisses
⚠️: strained family relationship, mild hurricane
4.5/5 ❤️
August 23, 2025
Thank you to Julie Milo for the ARC copy!
The story:
Molly and Jonathan are colleagues at a Coastal Environmental Research lab. Molly does not like Jonathan at first. They've known each other for a while because they went to the same graduate program. Molly sticks to her work in the lab, while Jonathan does more work outside the lab, collecting samples in the field.
Molly's boss wants to challenge her in the hopes of making a breakthrough, so she is sent to do fieldwork with Jonathan. Molly has ADHD and does not like to leave her comfort zone. Jonathan is very understanding and protective but also challenges her to slowly open up and try new things.
My review
This is a really sweet workplace romcom. I was swooning over how protective and understanding Jonathan was. He gets Molly to open up more while also being vulnerable and sharing some of his own past. They really complement and bring out the best in each other.
Molly's struggles with self-worth and maintaining control are very relatable.
The story:
Molly and Jonathan are colleagues at a Coastal Environmental Research lab. Molly does not like Jonathan at first. They've known each other for a while because they went to the same graduate program. Molly sticks to her work in the lab, while Jonathan does more work outside the lab, collecting samples in the field.
Molly's boss wants to challenge her in the hopes of making a breakthrough, so she is sent to do fieldwork with Jonathan. Molly has ADHD and does not like to leave her comfort zone. Jonathan is very understanding and protective but also challenges her to slowly open up and try new things.
My review
This is a really sweet workplace romcom. I was swooning over how protective and understanding Jonathan was. He gets Molly to open up more while also being vulnerable and sharing some of his own past. They really complement and bring out the best in each other.
Molly's struggles with self-worth and maintaining control are very relatable.
August 18, 2025
I read this amazing book as an ARC! 📚
Science is a major theme in this book because both Molly and Jonathan scientists!! Not just any scientists, but they are Coastal Environment scientists! I loved getting to learn about this area of science, and I can tell that the author did as much research as possible on this subject!! 😄
This book made me feel so many emotions 😭🥹. I loved Molly and Jonathan’s love story 🥹. Jonathan is a walking green flag and how gentle he is with Molly is so endearing 🥹. I cried at different points throughout because it was so just wholesome 🥹🥰.
Molly has ADHD and the representation of that in this story is also well done. It’s easy to understand and grasp how Molly feels, but ADHD itself is a complex disorder. The author also did her research on this and it shows! 😄 While I do not have a diagnosis for ADHD, how Molly describes how she feels with certain sensations is something I relate to A LOT! It makes me wonder 🧐🤣
Science is a major theme in this book because both Molly and Jonathan scientists!! Not just any scientists, but they are Coastal Environment scientists! I loved getting to learn about this area of science, and I can tell that the author did as much research as possible on this subject!! 😄
This book made me feel so many emotions 😭🥹. I loved Molly and Jonathan’s love story 🥹. Jonathan is a walking green flag and how gentle he is with Molly is so endearing 🥹. I cried at different points throughout because it was so just wholesome 🥹🥰.
Molly has ADHD and the representation of that in this story is also well done. It’s easy to understand and grasp how Molly feels, but ADHD itself is a complex disorder. The author also did her research on this and it shows! 😄 While I do not have a diagnosis for ADHD, how Molly describes how she feels with certain sensations is something I relate to A LOT! It makes me wonder 🧐🤣
August 28, 2025
Really enjoyed "Love in the Lab" by Julie Milo. This is her second book published and second in this series. I really liked that her main characters had STEM based jobs. The main female character Molly has ADHD and the author did a great job portraying that in this book.
This story was intriguing with the New Orleans setting, a trip to Vegas and seeing how each of the main characters interacted with their respective families. I liked Molly's cat name Beaker a lot - perfect for a scientist who thrives working in a lab. Plus a book with a cat in it is always a plus in my mind because cats are the best!
I was kept engaged by the romance aspect, the idea of the research the couple was doing in this book, the many mentions of yummy beignets and some of the great twists and turns the book's storyline takes.
Jonathan is a wonderful, male lead though he's almost too perfect (except where his parents are concerned) whereas Molly shows her insecurities and flaws throughout the story. He is patient and gives her time to figure out what she wants.
Thank you to the author for a chance to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This story was intriguing with the New Orleans setting, a trip to Vegas and seeing how each of the main characters interacted with their respective families. I liked Molly's cat name Beaker a lot - perfect for a scientist who thrives working in a lab. Plus a book with a cat in it is always a plus in my mind because cats are the best!
I was kept engaged by the romance aspect, the idea of the research the couple was doing in this book, the many mentions of yummy beignets and some of the great twists and turns the book's storyline takes.
Jonathan is a wonderful, male lead though he's almost too perfect (except where his parents are concerned) whereas Molly shows her insecurities and flaws throughout the story. He is patient and gives her time to figure out what she wants.
Thank you to the author for a chance to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 30, 2025
This was a fun, sweet story about two coworkers. Even though it is the second book in the Delaneys in Love series, it reads as a stand alone, too.
There were some funny pranks in this story and I loved the way Jonathan was able to draw Molly into having fun and allowing some spontaneity back into her very ordered and controlled life.
The author did a good job of creating a complicated character in Molly, one who struggled with fairly severe ADHD and sensory issues associated with it. I liked the way Jonathan got to know who Molly really was, valued her and all of her quirks, and continually found ways to show her how much he cared.
Jonathan had some things to work through from his past in this story, as well, and Molly was a big part in helping him move forward and make some changes. These two were really good for each other.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
There were some funny pranks in this story and I loved the way Jonathan was able to draw Molly into having fun and allowing some spontaneity back into her very ordered and controlled life.
The author did a good job of creating a complicated character in Molly, one who struggled with fairly severe ADHD and sensory issues associated with it. I liked the way Jonathan got to know who Molly really was, valued her and all of her quirks, and continually found ways to show her how much he cared.
Jonathan had some things to work through from his past in this story, as well, and Molly was a big part in helping him move forward and make some changes. These two were really good for each other.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 15, 2025
Love in the Lab - Julie Milo
I love women in STEM and Trade. I love the writing in this book, especially when it comes to the ADHD representation and Jonathan and Molly’s careers. You can tell the author researched everything in detail, and it shows in the writing. It’s fun while still being detailed and I enjoyed learning new things. I loved that wall. Jonathan wanted to push Molly to grow. He also respected her and her space and her need for routine. The story is very sweet, and I love the glimpses you saw of the other sisters. I can’t wait to read their books.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 The Delaney Sisters, #2
Genre/Tropes ✨ prank war, scientists MCs, Women in STEM, Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, workplace romance, set in New Orleans, ADHD representation, romantic comedy
I love women in STEM and Trade. I love the writing in this book, especially when it comes to the ADHD representation and Jonathan and Molly’s careers. You can tell the author researched everything in detail, and it shows in the writing. It’s fun while still being detailed and I enjoyed learning new things. I loved that wall. Jonathan wanted to push Molly to grow. He also respected her and her space and her need for routine. The story is very sweet, and I love the glimpses you saw of the other sisters. I can’t wait to read their books.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / Out of 5 Stars ⭐️
Format 💫 Gifted Digital Copy
Series 🌙 The Delaney Sisters, #2
Genre/Tropes ✨ prank war, scientists MCs, Women in STEM, Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, workplace romance, set in New Orleans, ADHD representation, romantic comedy
August 26, 2025
Book 2 in Julie Milo’s Delaneys in Love series, Love in the Lab is a delight! It’s a closed door, low-key enemies to lovers workplace romance set in a marine research laboratory.
Molly is a rule follower negotiating her ADHD and she believes that she can’t have a relationship or other distractions and still do her job properly. She’s an environmental science researcher and she stays in the lab, out of the way of other researchers and out of trouble. When her boss directs her to get out of her comfort zone, colleague Jonathon takes her out in his boat to collect samples. There's friction and attraction as these two dance around each other. Molly gets her spark back, but she's scared of entanglement. I loved watching Jonathon break down her barriers and support her ideas. It's funny and charming and an easy read.
Thank you Julie Milo for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Molly is a rule follower negotiating her ADHD and she believes that she can’t have a relationship or other distractions and still do her job properly. She’s an environmental science researcher and she stays in the lab, out of the way of other researchers and out of trouble. When her boss directs her to get out of her comfort zone, colleague Jonathon takes her out in his boat to collect samples. There's friction and attraction as these two dance around each other. Molly gets her spark back, but she's scared of entanglement. I loved watching Jonathon break down her barriers and support her ideas. It's funny and charming and an easy read.
Thank you Julie Milo for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
October 20, 2025
I would give this book 10 stars if I could! I loved it so so much!
Our FMC has ADHD and because of this has put certain things in place to make sure she is able to function in a way that neurotypical people think is appropriate. These leave no room for much fun and certainly not for a relationship. We watch her struggle with feelings of being a burden, with not being good enough, with being wrong or broken and then we get the joys of watching her start to embrace her neurosparkly brain with the help of our MMC. He loves her not in spite of her neurodiverse brain but including it and he helps her to love herself along the way.
As someone with a neurosparkly brain that has often struggled with similar thoughts this book really spoke to me and I think the author did an incredible job of highlighting the things people go through when their brain works differently!
Our FMC has ADHD and because of this has put certain things in place to make sure she is able to function in a way that neurotypical people think is appropriate. These leave no room for much fun and certainly not for a relationship. We watch her struggle with feelings of being a burden, with not being good enough, with being wrong or broken and then we get the joys of watching her start to embrace her neurosparkly brain with the help of our MMC. He loves her not in spite of her neurodiverse brain but including it and he helps her to love herself along the way.
As someone with a neurosparkly brain that has often struggled with similar thoughts this book really spoke to me and I think the author did an incredible job of highlighting the things people go through when their brain works differently!
August 25, 2025
Love in the Lab is a very engaging story and the second book in the series by Julie Milo. You can read it as a standalone and understand everything though, so you do not have to go back and read the first one. It’s a STEM romance with the female character having ADHD which is a nice element. You see how she deals with that and how it affects her life throughout the book. I loved the characters, the writing was very good, and the characters’ personality popped off the page. The character interaction is amazing. Both are dealing with their own issues, but they end up helping each other and getting their HEA. A read sweet romance that was very enjoyable.
I received an ARC copy and this in my honest review.
I received an ARC copy and this in my honest review.
August 14, 2025
This was my first book by Julie Milo and I loved it! As someone who has loved ones with ADHD, I appreciated Molly’s experience with it. And Jonathan’s devotion to Molly feeling seen and loved was incredibly swoon-worthy. Their banter was fun and the prank wars made me literally laugh out loud. I also loved seeing Molly’s sisters, who are in other books in this series. While I thought this book would go one way, it surprised me and went another. And I loved that! This book is categorized as a sweet, nerdy romantic comedy, and I think that’s the best way to describe it. I’ll definitely be reaching for more by this author soon!
August 26, 2025
I loved this story of Molly and Jonathan! It combines so many of my favourite things, women in STEM, golden retriever MMC, ADHD rep, no third act break up and rolls it into this easy to read, cute, funny, beautiful story that had me kicking my feet.
I loved the characters and their evolving enemies (-ish) to lovers storyline but mostly I loved how much Jonathan cared about Molly and how he was always looking out for her in sweet and thoughtful ways that accepted her and her ADHD.
This is my first book by Julie Milo, but I’ll for sure be off to read the others after this!
Thank you to the author for gifting me this book, I am leaving a review voluntarily.
I loved the characters and their evolving enemies (-ish) to lovers storyline but mostly I loved how much Jonathan cared about Molly and how he was always looking out for her in sweet and thoughtful ways that accepted her and her ADHD.
This is my first book by Julie Milo, but I’ll for sure be off to read the others after this!
Thank you to the author for gifting me this book, I am leaving a review voluntarily.
August 26, 2025
This was a fantastic read that i just couldn't put down. Two scientists that seem to hate each other and are complete opposites thrown together to work on a project! What could go wrong!! Jonathan has to be one of my favorite MMCs! He is so patient, lighthearted, tries to put everyone at ease, and wants so badly to make Molly like him! Molly is probably the most relatable FMC I've read in a while. While I'm not a scientist, I do have ADHD. I love how the author portrayed Molly and her idiosyncrasies that occurred with her ADHD and how Jonathan actually helps her too. This book was a wonderful growth book and a sweet romance. I cant wait to go and read the other book in this series!
September 3, 2025
Loved this book! FMC Molly has ADHD and has let it define her and turning her more serious. Fun loving Jonathon pushes Molly’s buttons and helps her discover herself again.
Favorite Quotes:
I’m embracing my crush now. The biggest obstacle before was that Molly seemed to hate me. After yesterday on the boat and in the water, I no longer believe that to be true. The attraction is there, for sure. I’m pretty sure she feels the same pull that I do.
“Jonathan,” she says gently. She puts a hand on either side of my face. “You don’t weigh me down. You ground me when I need it so that when it’s time to fly, we can soar together.”
Favorite Quotes:
I’m embracing my crush now. The biggest obstacle before was that Molly seemed to hate me. After yesterday on the boat and in the water, I no longer believe that to be true. The attraction is there, for sure. I’m pretty sure she feels the same pull that I do.
“Jonathan,” she says gently. She puts a hand on either side of my face. “You don’t weigh me down. You ground me when I need it so that when it’s time to fly, we can soar together.”
October 31, 2025
Love in the Lab is absolutely amazing—sweet, funny, and delightfully nerdy in all the best ways! Julie Milo perfectly captures the spark between Molly and Jonathan, turning their enemies-to-lovers tension into pure romcom gold. I adored the witty banter, adorable pranks, and heartwarming moments that made me smile nonstop. The chemistry is perfection—flirty but wholesome—and the ADHD representation adds so much depth and authenticity. It’s a feel-good, closed-door romance that made my heart happy from start to finish. If you love nerdy love stories with humor, warmth, and heart, this one’s an absolute gem!
February 14, 2026
4.5/5 🌟
Julie needs to be your go to author for sweet & nerdy romances! I am on a STEM romance kick. I genuinely loved that aspect of this book as I found the coastal environmental science pieces so interesting! I wasn’t sure about Jonathan in the very beginning but I really grew to love him + the way he pursued & cared for Molly! Molly does have ADHD and that’s a big part of her story/ journey- it’s represented well!
My favorite parts:
🔑 The hide-a-key
🗒️ Leaving the post it compliments on her fridge
🩷The Parade
Watching this pair come out of their comfort zone and really fall for each other was too sweet!
🫑 Closed Door- Implied Content but nothing on the page.
Julie needs to be your go to author for sweet & nerdy romances! I am on a STEM romance kick. I genuinely loved that aspect of this book as I found the coastal environmental science pieces so interesting! I wasn’t sure about Jonathan in the very beginning but I really grew to love him + the way he pursued & cared for Molly! Molly does have ADHD and that’s a big part of her story/ journey- it’s represented well!
My favorite parts:
🔑 The hide-a-key
🗒️ Leaving the post it compliments on her fridge
🩷The Parade
Watching this pair come out of their comfort zone and really fall for each other was too sweet!
🫑 Closed Door- Implied Content but nothing on the page.
August 21, 2025
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC. This review and thoughts are mine alone.*
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Alright, I’ll be honest, I’ve never read anything by Julie before, and I’m not a science wiz (self proclaimed big bang theory nerd though), and this book had me giggling from the start.
I enjoy rom-coms almost as much as the next person, but science nerd things? Sign me up…
I also feel like Julie did a lot of research to be as thorough as possible given their careers, and the way she explained it made me feel like I could go apply myself (don’t worry, i won’t be doing that, I’d start a fire or something 😅)
I truly loved Jonathan, with as patient and caring as he is, as well as how Molly is open about her ADHD diagnosis and how he can help.
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Alright, I’ll be honest, I’ve never read anything by Julie before, and I’m not a science wiz (self proclaimed big bang theory nerd though), and this book had me giggling from the start.
I enjoy rom-coms almost as much as the next person, but science nerd things? Sign me up…
I also feel like Julie did a lot of research to be as thorough as possible given their careers, and the way she explained it made me feel like I could go apply myself (don’t worry, i won’t be doing that, I’d start a fire or something 😅)
I truly loved Jonathan, with as patient and caring as he is, as well as how Molly is open about her ADHD diagnosis and how he can help.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2025
5 stars.
I had the pleasure of being a beta reader and helping with the scientific aspects of this fabulous story. I wanted to wait until I could read the finished version to rate and review it and my love for this story has only grown!
It’s the perfect clean nerdy romance! My favourite and most niche sub genre is two nerds falling in love over their shared nerd interests and this definitely fits the bill! Everyone needs to read this book!
Thank you Julie for letting me beta read and for the arc!
I had the pleasure of being a beta reader and helping with the scientific aspects of this fabulous story. I wanted to wait until I could read the finished version to rate and review it and my love for this story has only grown!
It’s the perfect clean nerdy romance! My favourite and most niche sub genre is two nerds falling in love over their shared nerd interests and this definitely fits the bill! Everyone needs to read this book!
Thank you Julie for letting me beta read and for the arc!
August 21, 2025
While there was a lot of scientific jargon that I honestly didn't understand in this book, there were so many aspects of this story that I completely adored, and that made it completely worth the read. I personally love neurodivergent characters, especially women that are neurodivergent. I think it brings another element to the story that makes me so involved in it, beyond what I normally am. I just adored this story. I will recommend it to anyone!
August 24, 2025
LOVE IN THE LAB
Delaneys in Love Book 2
by Julie Milo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a whirlwind! I absolutely enjoyed this read. The detail and research that went into this book was spot on. Molly and Jonathan are absolutely adorable! The pranks they play, the way he puts her first and their overall character is perfect. I definitely recommend this clean fun read to anyone that either needs a palette cleanser or adores clean wholesome content.
#ARCreview #romance #indieauthor #banter
Delaneys in Love Book 2
by Julie Milo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a whirlwind! I absolutely enjoyed this read. The detail and research that went into this book was spot on. Molly and Jonathan are absolutely adorable! The pranks they play, the way he puts her first and their overall character is perfect. I definitely recommend this clean fun read to anyone that either needs a palette cleanser or adores clean wholesome content.
#ARCreview #romance #indieauthor #banter
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