Book Review: "The American Roommate Experiment” by Elena Armas

“The American Roommate Experiment” by Elena Armas is a slow-burn, romance novel that follows the story of tech engineer turned romance author Rosie Graham and Spanish professional surfer Lucas Martin (the book follows Armas’ first novel “The Spanish Love Deception” - Rosie is Lina’s best friend!)

Rosie is quite literally forced out of her apartment when her ceiling caves in and rather than retreat to her father’s home in Philadelphia, Rosie takes up temporary residence at her best friend Lina’s Brooklyn studio, while Lina is off on her honeymoon. Unbeknownst to Rosie, Lina has already promised her place to her favorite primo, Lucas as he continues his three-month tour of the United States, spending the tailend of his trip in New York City. And the fun only begins there as Rosie realizes that the guy she’s been Insta-stalking for the better part of the last few months is now sharing space with her!

“The American Roommate Experiment” is a contemporary romantic comedy centered around the friends to lovers, forced proximity, one bed, and fake dating tropes. The novel delves into topics such as career changes, imposter syndrome, mental health, family, and love and worth. I found that Rosie’s struggle with imposter syndrome after changing careers was relatable - who hasn’t experienced that? I appreciated that the author also touched upon Lucas’s anxiety surrounding his career-ending surfing accident - as a fellow anxiety sufferer I felt his insights were raw and authentic. (And can I say I love that Armas included Taco, the trained service dog?)

If you’re looking for a light-hearted romance read with enduring characters, big, sweeping romantic gestures, and steamy scenes that will make you squirm with anticipation, check out Elena Amras’ “The American Roommate Experiment.”