Field Notes on Love by Jennifer E. Smith is a fun-loving and endearing romance novel that follows British-born Hugo Wilkinson and film enthusiast Margaret Campbell. Despite having just been dumped by his girlfriend, Hugo is still determined to take his last-hurrah-before-college train trip across the United States. One snag: the companion ticket is already booked under the name of his ex, Margaret Campbell. Nontransferable, no exceptions. Enter the new Margaret C., also known as Mae, who is an aspiring filmmaker, and is a different woman! She has just been rejected from her dream film program at college because her films lacked a "personal aspect". She learns about Hugo's offer of a spare ticket online and decides it's the ideal chance to broaden her perspective.

When the two meet, the attraction is undeniable, and both discover more than they expected. Hugo will encourage Mae to explore a new, more vulnerable side of her art as she pushes him to consider his aspirations for the future. But when life off the train threatens the bubble they've created for themselves, will they manage to keep their love on track?

I really enjoyed this book! I thought that the forced proximity concept of them living on the train was really funny and interesting to read about, such as the awkward moments of going to sleep and getting ready. The slow friends-to-lovers development - with both Hugo and Mae opening up to one another - was also just so heartwarming as Mae tackled rejection while Hugo tried to find his own place in a difficult family. As Mae is also trying to make a film while on the train, the interviews with the other passengers were open and honest and their life stories were fascinating to read about. This book was short, sweet, easy to read and a fun, escapist experience! 

3.5/5 stars

Age rating (in my opinion): 12/13 and up!

By Abbie Rose Humphreys,

Aged 14