The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight - A Review

Was it fate that lead Hadley to miss her plane to London by only four minutes or was it mere coincidence? In The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight, Hadley considers such heavy material as fate, love, and marriage as she travels to London for her father's wedding and very possibly meets the boy of her dreams.

A series of mishaps leads Hadley to be late for her flight to London; this isn't terrible news for Hadley as she was dreading the trip to her father's wedding anyway. Unfortunately, she is able to get a seat on the next flight out -- one that will arrive just in time for her to be able to fulfill her bridesmaid duties. As she waits at the airport, she has a chance encounter with Oliver, a handsome, young Brit, who assists her with her luggage as she wanders through the airport. Oliver and Hadley strike up a conversation in the cafeteria that lasts through the entire flight to London. As they get to know each other, Hadley wonders if she and Oliver were meant to meet, and if so, does that mean they are meant to meet again?

Jennifer E. Smith's book is a lovely, little romantic comedy -- perfect for both teens and adults. The reader is immediately drawn into Hadley's drama as she frets over her father's remarriage and her sense of abandonment. We commiserate with her as she deals with her anxiety inducing claustrophobia, and we root for her to find hope and a little bit of happiness on her trip to London. When Oliver comes into her life, Hadley is given that gleam of hope, and it is enjoyable to watch as Oliver becomes a friend and confidant to Hadley just when she needs it most. From here, the story takes a fairly predictable path. And yes, we may have seen this all before in any number of romantic comedies, but that doesn't make it any less enjoyable here.

The characters in Smith's book are relatable and likeable, and the story is a perfect balance between sugary sweet comedy and emotional family drama. It is a fun, light read and highly recommended for anyone wishing to renew their belief in love and destiny.