The Love Proof

November 9, 2020
In Henry’s tender if familiar second novel (after Breathe In, Cash Out), a Yale physics prodigy attempts a scientific proof to explain her romantic feelings. Sophie Jones (dubbed “The Next Einstein” in a New York Times profile) is about to embark on a research project on the nature of time during her first year at Yale when she falls in love with fellow student Jake Kristopher. As the couple’s lives become more entwined, Sophie becomes filled with a “debilitating peace” and loses interest in her studies, leading those around her—including Jake—to fear the loss of her potential. After graduation, Jake proposes they push pause on the relationship, so Sophie can focus on her work. She flails for a year, but eventually returns to Yale to work on her PhD, determined to work on block theory (the idea that “all events in the past, present, and future existed at once”) to explain her enduring affection for Jake. Though the novel treads well-worn ground in its juxtaposition of science and emotion (“The least understood, most important thing in the world is love,” Sophie declares), Sophie and Jake’s relationship is genuinely endearing. This engaging take on the mysteries of the heart and universe might not have all the answers, but it makes the grade. Agent: Eve Atterman, WME.

Narrator Cassandra Campbell's consistent pace and clear voice result in the perfect delivery of a story in which intellect meets emotion. Sophie's brilliance is evident early, and she is content to live in her mind. But at college, her world expands when she falls in love. Then a shocking event pushes Sophie inward again. Campbell's voice is high and matter-of-fact as the young Sophie discusses physics. As Sophie matures, Campbell's narration takes on a dynamic quality. Sophie's happiness is expressed in rushed, excited tones. An upsetting moment is punctuated with a heavy sigh and a sob. Overall soft in tone, this audiobook will steal listeners' hearts as its protagonist studies the effect that enduring love has on time. A.L.C. � AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine