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Fundamentals of Chemistry: A Workplace Romance Novel
Not yet published
Expected 15 Sep 26All Melanie Burke wants to do is teach chemistry. But her dream job is nothing like she expected, and it’s all Jackson Cooper’s fault.
On the verge of finally breaking away from her controlling, elitist parents, the former it-girl learns that as one of two finalists for the coveted chemistry teacher role at Newbury Academy, she is expected to collaborate with her rival—which would be fine, except they can’t agree on anything, least of all their lesson plans. Things go from bad to worse when a series of innocuous misunderstandings devolve into a full-on classroom prank war.
But then something unexpected happens. After their acidic onset, Melanie and Jackson’s rivalry sparks into an attraction that neither of them can resist, despite their best efforts. As the end of the semester closes in, Melanie must confront her complicated relationship with independence and privilege before she loses her shot at her dream forever.
This Legally-Blonde-in-a-labcoat novel will have you laughing out loud and crying from secondhand embarrassment while you root for these two idiots in love.
On the verge of finally breaking away from her controlling, elitist parents, the former it-girl learns that as one of two finalists for the coveted chemistry teacher role at Newbury Academy, she is expected to collaborate with her rival—which would be fine, except they can’t agree on anything, least of all their lesson plans. Things go from bad to worse when a series of innocuous misunderstandings devolve into a full-on classroom prank war.
But then something unexpected happens. After their acidic onset, Melanie and Jackson’s rivalry sparks into an attraction that neither of them can resist, despite their best efforts. As the end of the semester closes in, Melanie must confront her complicated relationship with independence and privilege before she loses her shot at her dream forever.
This Legally-Blonde-in-a-labcoat novel will have you laughing out loud and crying from secondhand embarrassment while you root for these two idiots in love.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 26, 2026
Two former classmates vying for one job at a prestigious private school? What could go wrong? I have to say, I loved this book! It had a good plot and was well-written. It follows two former classmates at a prestigious private school who find themselves in contention for the same job - who start out as fierce competitor but at some point start to become much more. There are some twists and turns which kept me wanting more, the characters had great chemistry and there was just the right amount of spice. The fall vibe just added to the whole experience! I think this is the perfect book for the Gilmore Girls, cozy vibes, small town love story book crowd. I read it in a weekend. It’s a fun quick read, perfect for the beach.
I received an ARC copy for my honest review.
I received an ARC copy for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, Brittany Milam, for giving me the chance read an ARC of Fundamentals of Chemistry. I have followed her socials for a long time, and it was an honor to read her debut!
This was overall a wonderful read and an awesome debut. I definitely recommend everyone giving it a chance if you like banter, cozy fall vibes (there’s nothing better than a New England fall setting), and some sexy romance between rivals to lovers.
I think one of the things I liked the most about this story was that, apart from competing for a teaching job, the situations were so real. The friendships felt real, the conversations weren’t overly dramatic, and the emotions were all there. I read so much fantasy and high-stakes romance that it was really refreshing to read a rom-com that left my heart just feeling happy.
Our FMC, Melanie Burke, is really a fun character. She’s blonde and sunshiny - she wants to do well, tries to be optimistic, but is aware her circumstances are balancing on a fine line between success and failure. Our MMC, Jackson Cooper – well he’s a big ole grump when you first meet him. I feel like it’s been a hot minute since I truly disliked a main love interest, but he was just plain rude IMO. But then you get to know him and his grumpiness makes so much more sense and you end up loving him. I don’t want to spoil one of my favorite parts of this story, but let’s just say – the grump can yearn.
I did find myself wanting a little bit more of the story sometimes. Like I said, the story felt real and what we have is fun and light, but there is also a backstory to each of the main characters that seemed really cool and I would have loved them to be expanded a little. I think this is part of why the epilogue didn’t really do it entirely for me. Don’t get me wrong – am I glad I got a glimpse into the future? Yes – I will always choose an epilogue over no epilogue. But it didn’t feel as connected to the rest of the story and the characters as I wanted because there was just some more information I felt like it needed.
However, Brittany Milam can definitely write characters a reader can enjoy. She made me feel angry and happy and she made me laugh – she even was able to make me feel some of the anxiety the character may have felt. I will be keeping my eye on Ms. Milam for future titles because if this is her debut, I cannot wait to see what she gives us next!
This was overall a wonderful read and an awesome debut. I definitely recommend everyone giving it a chance if you like banter, cozy fall vibes (there’s nothing better than a New England fall setting), and some sexy romance between rivals to lovers.
I think one of the things I liked the most about this story was that, apart from competing for a teaching job, the situations were so real. The friendships felt real, the conversations weren’t overly dramatic, and the emotions were all there. I read so much fantasy and high-stakes romance that it was really refreshing to read a rom-com that left my heart just feeling happy.
Our FMC, Melanie Burke, is really a fun character. She’s blonde and sunshiny - she wants to do well, tries to be optimistic, but is aware her circumstances are balancing on a fine line between success and failure. Our MMC, Jackson Cooper – well he’s a big ole grump when you first meet him. I feel like it’s been a hot minute since I truly disliked a main love interest, but he was just plain rude IMO. But then you get to know him and his grumpiness makes so much more sense and you end up loving him. I don’t want to spoil one of my favorite parts of this story, but let’s just say – the grump can yearn.
I did find myself wanting a little bit more of the story sometimes. Like I said, the story felt real and what we have is fun and light, but there is also a backstory to each of the main characters that seemed really cool and I would have loved them to be expanded a little. I think this is part of why the epilogue didn’t really do it entirely for me. Don’t get me wrong – am I glad I got a glimpse into the future? Yes – I will always choose an epilogue over no epilogue. But it didn’t feel as connected to the rest of the story and the characters as I wanted because there was just some more information I felt like it needed.
However, Brittany Milam can definitely write characters a reader can enjoy. She made me feel angry and happy and she made me laugh – she even was able to make me feel some of the anxiety the character may have felt. I will be keeping my eye on Ms. Milam for future titles because if this is her debut, I cannot wait to see what she gives us next!
July 22, 2026
‘Fundamentals of Chemistry’ is a STEM workplace romance about 2 teachers fighting for the same position as a chemistry teacher at Newbury. The main tropes are rivals- to- lovers, grumpy x sunshine, secret dating.
This was such a refreshing cosy, autumn vibe that left you feeling happy. It was a really easy read and I actually finished it in 1 day! The fmc, Melanie, is from an upper class family and has always had her way payed for her. She wants to branch out and start living her own life, earning things herself instead of people handing it to her because of her family name. The mmc, Jack, is not as lucky in terms of wealth. He’s a VERY grumpy man at the start. I didn’t think he was likeable at all because he was just so rude. But when you start learning his story and how hard life was for him at times, you start to understand him more. There were still times where I was shouting at my kindle because he was being a moron! Without giving any spoilers, a very important piece of advice I would give to Jack is that communication is key. I also really loved Melanie’s relationship with her best friend. It felt so honest and realistic. The connection they had was beautiful.
The reason I gave this book 4⭐️ instead of 5 was due to the epilogue. The epilogue is usually my favourite part because you’ve made it all the way to the end on a wild ride with these characters and it’s when you find out whether they stayed together, got married, had kids etc. Unfortunately this epilogue just didn’t give me as much as I would’ve hoped. However this was the only downside I had for this book- so I class that as a win! 100% worth reading.
I’d like to thank Brittany Milam for letting me read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This was a fantastic debut book and I hope to read more of your work in the future.
This was such a refreshing cosy, autumn vibe that left you feeling happy. It was a really easy read and I actually finished it in 1 day! The fmc, Melanie, is from an upper class family and has always had her way payed for her. She wants to branch out and start living her own life, earning things herself instead of people handing it to her because of her family name. The mmc, Jack, is not as lucky in terms of wealth. He’s a VERY grumpy man at the start. I didn’t think he was likeable at all because he was just so rude. But when you start learning his story and how hard life was for him at times, you start to understand him more. There were still times where I was shouting at my kindle because he was being a moron! Without giving any spoilers, a very important piece of advice I would give to Jack is that communication is key. I also really loved Melanie’s relationship with her best friend. It felt so honest and realistic. The connection they had was beautiful.
The reason I gave this book 4⭐️ instead of 5 was due to the epilogue. The epilogue is usually my favourite part because you’ve made it all the way to the end on a wild ride with these characters and it’s when you find out whether they stayed together, got married, had kids etc. Unfortunately this epilogue just didn’t give me as much as I would’ve hoped. However this was the only downside I had for this book- so I class that as a win! 100% worth reading.
I’d like to thank Brittany Milam for letting me read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This was a fantastic debut book and I hope to read more of your work in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Brittany Milam, author, for this ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
This was such a fun, feel-good read! From the very beginning, it kept my interest, and by halfway through I realized I'd been smiling more times than I could count. The chemistry between the main characters was absolutely on point, and their banter felt natural, witty, and genuinely charming. I found myself rooting for them almost immediately, and their relationship developed in a way that felt believable and satisfying.
Spice level for this was just right!
The pacing was great, with each chapter moving the story and the relationship forward. It was the kind of book I looked forward to picking back up because I simply enjoyed spending time with these characters.
The only reason this wasn't a full five stars for me was the epilogue. While I appreciated the four-year time jump and learning what the FMC had accomplished, it didn't provide the emotional payoff I was hoping for. After becoming so invested in them as a couple, I wanted one last meaningful glimpse into their life together rather than a brief update. It wasn't bad, it just didn't add much value for me, and I found myself wishing for a more satisfying sendoff.
Overall, this was a cute workplace romance with fantastic chemistry, lovable characters, and plenty of moments that made me smile. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet, engaging romance that leaves you feeling happy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
This was such a fun, feel-good read! From the very beginning, it kept my interest, and by halfway through I realized I'd been smiling more times than I could count. The chemistry between the main characters was absolutely on point, and their banter felt natural, witty, and genuinely charming. I found myself rooting for them almost immediately, and their relationship developed in a way that felt believable and satisfying.
Spice level for this was just right!
The pacing was great, with each chapter moving the story and the relationship forward. It was the kind of book I looked forward to picking back up because I simply enjoyed spending time with these characters.
The only reason this wasn't a full five stars for me was the epilogue. While I appreciated the four-year time jump and learning what the FMC had accomplished, it didn't provide the emotional payoff I was hoping for. After becoming so invested in them as a couple, I wanted one last meaningful glimpse into their life together rather than a brief update. It wasn't bad, it just didn't add much value for me, and I found myself wishing for a more satisfying sendoff.
Overall, this was a cute workplace romance with fantastic chemistry, lovable characters, and plenty of moments that made me smile. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet, engaging romance that leaves you feeling happy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished this in three days, which is always my way of saying: I had zero self-control.
This was such a fun, tension-filled rivals-to-lovers. The whole co-teaching competition setup worked so well, and I loved his attitude at the beginning—so bitter, so annoying, and of course only an asshole to her while everyone else loves him. That dynamic will get me every single time.
The banter was honestly one of my favourite parts—I actually laughed out loud, and the characters' humour just made the whole thing feel natural and fun. I also really appreciated the friendship between Mel and her best friend—it felt real in a way that a lot of romcoms don’t always get right.
Melanie didn’t fully click for me all the time (she felt a bit stiff in places), and her parents were giving very strong Emily and Richard Gilmore energy… But the romance? It delivered. And the spice?? Definitely there, and not just a one-and-done situation.
The only reason this isn’t a full 5⭐ is the ending and epilogue—they felt a bit rushed compared to how much I was enjoying everything before that. Still such a fun, addictive read, and I’ll 100% be picking up whatever Brittany Milam writes next.
This was such a fun, tension-filled rivals-to-lovers. The whole co-teaching competition setup worked so well, and I loved his attitude at the beginning—so bitter, so annoying, and of course only an asshole to her while everyone else loves him. That dynamic will get me every single time.
The banter was honestly one of my favourite parts—I actually laughed out loud, and the characters' humour just made the whole thing feel natural and fun. I also really appreciated the friendship between Mel and her best friend—it felt real in a way that a lot of romcoms don’t always get right.
Melanie didn’t fully click for me all the time (she felt a bit stiff in places), and her parents were giving very strong Emily and Richard Gilmore energy… But the romance? It delivered. And the spice?? Definitely there, and not just a one-and-done situation.
The only reason this isn’t a full 5⭐ is the ending and epilogue—they felt a bit rushed compared to how much I was enjoying everything before that. Still such a fun, addictive read, and I’ll 100% be picking up whatever Brittany Milam writes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fundamentals of Chemistry was fun, cozy, witty and emotional all at the same time.
If you like:
- real people
- women in STEM
- the struggle of carving your path in life
- a romance that feels like coming home
you absolutely will love this book.
Newbury felt homey and nostalgic the way that only your old high school can feel. Melanie, the FMC, felt like a real human being, she is as good as she is naive, as privileged as she is determined. The story is in her pov and you can feel her thoughts and emotional along the way.
Jack too is an MMC that actually feels real. He is smart, caring, attentive, handsome but he is also shy, impulsive and judges too quickly in the way that can only be driven by a life of insecurities.
Overall my favorite thing about FunChem (iykyk) is that it felt like a real story. I read it as an ARC, which I am beyond grateful for, but I have it saved and pre-ordered for September 🧡
This is Brittany's debut novel that made her an immediate-buy author for me! I can't wait to see what she does next! (Ashley's story perhaps? 😇❤️)
If you like:
- real people
- women in STEM
- the struggle of carving your path in life
- a romance that feels like coming home
you absolutely will love this book.
Newbury felt homey and nostalgic the way that only your old high school can feel. Melanie, the FMC, felt like a real human being, she is as good as she is naive, as privileged as she is determined. The story is in her pov and you can feel her thoughts and emotional along the way.
Jack too is an MMC that actually feels real. He is smart, caring, attentive, handsome but he is also shy, impulsive and judges too quickly in the way that can only be driven by a life of insecurities.
Overall my favorite thing about FunChem (iykyk) is that it felt like a real story. I read it as an ARC, which I am beyond grateful for, but I have it saved and pre-ordered for September 🧡
This is Brittany's debut novel that made her an immediate-buy author for me! I can't wait to see what she does next! (Ashley's story perhaps? 😇❤️)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely **adore** both Melanie and Jackson, the FMC and MMC (and I mean - just look at them on the cover!). They are forced into competing for the same teaching position at their former high school, Newbury Academy, which was written in a way that felt so realistic. I could see myself walking around this campus with the characters. The big question is: will these two find chemistry outside of the classroom? Of course, the answer is yes, but the journey to get there is truly an enjoyable one!
The love that Melanie has for the topic of chemistry is wonderful to read. Women in STEM is such a fun topic to explore in books! I loved watching her gain her confidence as an instructor, working on becoming someone her students enjoy learning from, and growing as a person throughout the story.
I couldn't get enough of this cozy academia story - I was truly disappointed when I realized I was at the end, just because I was greedy and wanted more. Looking forward to returning to Newbury with a reread!
The love that Melanie has for the topic of chemistry is wonderful to read. Women in STEM is such a fun topic to explore in books! I loved watching her gain her confidence as an instructor, working on becoming someone her students enjoy learning from, and growing as a person throughout the story.
I couldn't get enough of this cozy academia story - I was truly disappointed when I realized I was at the end, just because I was greedy and wanted more. Looking forward to returning to Newbury with a reread!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an advanced copy from the author.
I finished this book in a day I just couldn't help myself. This rom-com was like a breath of fresh air from the fantasy and dark romance I've been reading. This sweet story warmed my heart and I would love to get another book from this like maybe one of the friends. The school felt homey real and cozy.
Pros- All the great banter and pranks. Loved the women in STEM. The reality of having to fight for a job and how it works out. I loved the students wanting to help their teachers and the bonds they have. The friendships feel real and like a found family. The spice is there.
Cons- I wish we could have had dual POV because his backstory seemed lacking but hints of it left me wanting to know more. Also the epilogue felt just rushed or something. Yes I'm happy we got a glimpse into their future and their happily ever after but would have loved more.
I finished this book in a day I just couldn't help myself. This rom-com was like a breath of fresh air from the fantasy and dark romance I've been reading. This sweet story warmed my heart and I would love to get another book from this like maybe one of the friends. The school felt homey real and cozy.
Pros- All the great banter and pranks. Loved the women in STEM. The reality of having to fight for a job and how it works out. I loved the students wanting to help their teachers and the bonds they have. The friendships feel real and like a found family. The spice is there.
Cons- I wish we could have had dual POV because his backstory seemed lacking but hints of it left me wanting to know more. Also the epilogue felt just rushed or something. Yes I'm happy we got a glimpse into their future and their happily ever after but would have loved more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As someone who usually listens to audiobooks, I couldn’t put this book down. From the very beginning, I was completely invested in Melanie and Jack’s journey. Their progression throughout the story felt natural, satisfying, and exactly what I was hoping for.
There were moments that had me laughing out loud, and others where I found myself practically yelling at the characters to just get on the same page already! I also loved the scientific terminology woven throughout the story—it added a unique touch that fit the characters and setting perfectly without feeling overwhelming.
If you’re looking for a well-written enemies-to-lovers romance with humor, chemistry (in more ways than one!), tension, and plenty of heart, The Fundamentals of Chemistry delivers from beginning to end. I thoroughly enjoyed every page.
There were moments that had me laughing out loud, and others where I found myself practically yelling at the characters to just get on the same page already! I also loved the scientific terminology woven throughout the story—it added a unique touch that fit the characters and setting perfectly without feeling overwhelming.
If you’re looking for a well-written enemies-to-lovers romance with humor, chemistry (in more ways than one!), tension, and plenty of heart, The Fundamentals of Chemistry delivers from beginning to end. I thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book! It was a quick, engaging read that had me turning the pages and wishing there was more when I reached the end.
Melanie and Jackson completely stole my heart. Their witty banter was effortless, their chemistry was undeniable, and watching their relationship unfold was both refreshing and so much fun. They balanced humor, heart, and genuine connection in a way that made it impossible not to root for them.
If you're looking for a fast-paced romance with lovable characters, sharp dialogue, and a story that leaves you smiling long after you've finished, this is definitely one to pick up. I can't wait to read more from this author!
Melanie and Jackson completely stole my heart. Their witty banter was effortless, their chemistry was undeniable, and watching their relationship unfold was both refreshing and so much fun. They balanced humor, heart, and genuine connection in a way that made it impossible not to root for them.
If you're looking for a fast-paced romance with lovable characters, sharp dialogue, and a story that leaves you smiling long after you've finished, this is definitely one to pick up. I can't wait to read more from this author!
July 21, 2026
Absolutely love this book! I received as an ARC from
The author herself and it was beautifully written. I just read a different book about teachers and I thought it was going to be similar but it flowed so much better than I could have expected and I didn’t want to stop reading! Academic poor loner boy infatuated with the beautiful wealthy girl in highschool and now they are competing for the same job. Attempting to keep things professional but the chemistry they have makes it almost impossible. Chefs kiss, truly!
The author herself and it was beautifully written. I just read a different book about teachers and I thought it was going to be similar but it flowed so much better than I could have expected and I didn’t want to stop reading! Academic poor loner boy infatuated with the beautiful wealthy girl in highschool and now they are competing for the same job. Attempting to keep things professional but the chemistry they have makes it almost impossible. Chefs kiss, truly!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When luminal and hydrogen peroxide combine it creates a brilliant glow that can illuminate the dark. So it is with the characters in this book, Jack and Melanie. Against their wishes, the two compete for a chemistry teaching position at an uppity private school, and despite the fact that only one person will be offered a job, the chemistry between the two, far exceeds the chemistry happening in the classroom.
I really enjoyed this novel, a fun romp with clever dialogue and endearing characters. The author’s breezy style is refreshing and I look forward to reading more from her.
I really enjoyed this novel, a fun romp with clever dialogue and endearing characters. The author’s breezy style is refreshing and I look forward to reading more from her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, I have to admit that I know almost nothing about chemistry. Fortunately, it in no way impeded my enjoyment of Brittany Milam’s debut novel. The steamy romance between newbie chemistry teacher Melanie Burke and Jackson Cooper combined well with their high-stakes professional rivalry. I love Melanie’s authentic inner monologue and the novel’s humor. The epilogue felt unnecessary but the novel was a fun read overall and I look forward to more from this new author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed Fundamentals of Chemistry! It was a quick, fun read with just the right amount of workplace rivalry, chemistry (pun intended!), and romance. I found myself rooting for Melanie and Jackson as their competition slowly turned into something more. If you’re looking for a light, entertaining workplace romance with likable characters, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you're looking for classic rom-com in book form, THIS IS IT! The chemistry (pun intended) between the main characters is delicious. Their banter and intimacy had me giggling and kicking my feet! This was such a fun read, the characters felt real and relatable. Would absolutely recommend to all romance readers! I can't wait to read what Brittany writes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this book! STEM rom-com where the shy high school boy gets the popular cheerleader... it just may take a decade. And when they meet again she does not remember him.
Their pranks had me giggling! And Alan... Alan needs to stop interrupting the good parts 😅
Rivals to lovers
Grumpy X Sunshine
Secret dating
Workplace romance
Read it! It's a good one!
Their pranks had me giggling! And Alan... Alan needs to stop interrupting the good parts 😅
Rivals to lovers
Grumpy X Sunshine
Secret dating
Workplace romance
Read it! It's a good one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2026
I got to read this as a ARC, Thank you Brittany Milan for giving me the chance to read this. I found the story to be fun,engaging and sad in parts. I was drawn into the story of Melanie and Jackson competing for the same jobs as chemistry high school teachers. I would have loved a little more backstory on Melanie and Jackson. Maybe that is a story in itself. I would highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Got as an arc from author!!
This was one of the cutest books I got to read as an arc dealing with a workplace romance. The chemistry(pun intended) was adorable. You got the laughs, the trouble, the pain but it all works together!!! The journey of Mel was beautiful!! Kack had my heart from the start!! Loved it so much!!
This was one of the cutest books I got to read as an arc dealing with a workplace romance. The chemistry(pun intended) was adorable. You got the laughs, the trouble, the pain but it all works together!!! The journey of Mel was beautiful!! Kack had my heart from the start!! Loved it so much!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a great read I did not want to put it down! This is Brittanys first novel and you can tell she had put a lot of hard work into it. The banter the tension is just great and the little science jokes where just a fun time!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a fun, cute and sexy read!!
Mel was such a relatable character and I absolutely loved the Hens!
Jack was a delight and I loved them together. Their cute moments had me giggling!
Thank you Brittany for the Arc!
Mel was such a relatable character and I absolutely loved the Hens!
Jack was a delight and I loved them together. Their cute moments had me giggling!
Thank you Brittany for the Arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First thank you Brittany for sharing an ARC copy with me! You were right you did right a damn good book!
This is an amazing rivals to lovers slow burn read! I love that the romance is romance and not just spicy time! ♥️
This is an amazing rivals to lovers slow burn read! I love that the romance is romance and not just spicy time! ♥️
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews