I thought Meet Cute was an okay read, I didn't love it but I didn't hate it either. I liked the characters and the storyline and I thought their chemistry was off the charts. I'm not really a romance reader but this one was a good one. I did enjoy that this was more than the typical rom-com but I did have my fair share of laugh out loud moments I would recommend this to anyone who wants a cute yet steamy read.

Rating 3.5

If you like romance & Helena Hunting’s books, you’ll love Meet Cute! 💗

This is the story of Kailyn & Dax whose “meet cute” story is equal parts adorable & fangirl embarrassing. Dax, who used to be a teen tv actor attends college trying to move past his child-star life & Kailyn, who was once obsessed with him as a kid found herself in the same classes. Friendly competition & banter between the two ensues though these lose touch after graduation. Years later though, they’re reunited after Dax’s parents die leaving him to look after their teenage daughter, Emme & needing Kailyn’s help as the trust attorney.

It’s a hate to love/friends to lovers story that also sprinkles some seriousness to it that adds depth to the story, covering topics like adoption & death of a parent. It also focuses on Kailyn’s career in a positive way where Dax is a very supportive partner & enthusiastic about her drive for success.
I also loved that unlike many romances the characters did not allow for much miscommunication & talked out their problems. Dax’s focus was on being a better parent to Emme & partner to Kailyn. I also loved that any time Dax acted like an ass, Kailyn immediately called him out on it.

Meet Cute is an original slow burn romance that was addictive, sexy, & a fast read I really enjoyed. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4.5 🌟s

Meet Cute is just that - Its Cute! But it is so much more than that as well. When I saw the cover, I thought I was in for a light hearted rom-com, but that is not the case, and it wasn't a bad thing either. It is a book that will give you all the feels. There is some classic Hunting humor that had me smiling and snorting in parts but you will experience heartache along with Daxton and his little sister Emme. Kailyn is no stranger to what they are going through and she is the absolute right person to help them navigate through this period of their lives, even the Aisle of Red!

You could classify this novel in a few tropes, it could fall into the crush to friends / enemies to friends to lovers (that was a mouthful)! There is also the single parent side that was very touching and emotional to witness. It is not all sad and angsty, as I said there is some brilliant humor and also a delightful love story to makes this novel complete.

Kailyn is someone I would want in my corner if I ever needed a lawyer or any sort of help. She was a pillar of strength but also had the kindest heart. She is a little bit wicked too, which was engrossing to Dax. Daxton oh Dax.... what can I tell you, he was charming and smart and oh so swoony. The way he takes on his new responsibility full heartedly was inspiring and moving. I felt so much empathy for him. I think I would be a fangirl too if I ever ran into him!

I feel this book will connect with so many readers, and that's why I would recommend that you give this one a go.

I loved this book!!! It was cute, sweet, funny and oh so compelling! I just could not stop reading it! I highly recommend- especially if you're a fan of Hunting!

Major spoilers:


On the first day of law school, Kailyn collides with former child star and her massive crush Daxton Hughes while she’s “visualizing success” with her eyes closed and he’s running to catch a Frisbee. She gushes like a fangirl, embarrassing herself in the process. Minutes later, she trips in class and lands in his lap for a 2nd time. From this "meet cute”, they carry on a flirty rivalry until graduation when he screws her over to be first in class. Fast forward five years and he walks into her office with his parents to establish a trust for his little sister. He doesn't understand the reason for her hostility, remembering them as friendly rivals. A few months later, a tragedy and ensuing custody battle draw them together again. An inevitable (borderline unethical) romance blossoms, but is it strong enough to survive grief and betrayal?

There are several problems with this book. First, it is too predictable. Hunting uses the same tired tropes and fails to elevate the story beyond the norm. We learn enough about the characters to form opinions, but the witty dialogue and depth of feeling are in short supply.

Second, it seems very dated. Feminism flies out the window when Dax calls Kailyn to help him buy sanitary products and then gags at the idea of menstruation and Kailyn, a short, curvaceous brunette, feels she can’t compete with blond Barbies for the hot guy’s attention and then gives up a great promotion to win him.

Finally, it has several implausible plot points. Would a former teen heartthrob really fall in love with a 30-something woman who still wears and uses memorabilia from his show? Although not spoken aloud, Kailyn says “Freaking teenage crushes die hard.” Can an aunt with a dubious reputation and 3 failed marriages, and who was removed as guardian 6 months prior to the parent’s death, really have a case for custody? There is also no way that two busy Los Angeles police officers would show up at a school dance to “mediate” because minors were caught with booze. How is it that two lawyers fail to see the clues that are right in front of them? For example, Emma’s journal is missing from the same locker where they found the booze and, days later, the aunt is using pages from the same journal to try to discredit Dax.

Bottom line: it’s entertaining enough to read through, but the implausibility of several situations makes it difficult to fully buy in to the story.

This was not what I expected going in but I enjoyed it nonetheless. It was an emotional ride for me with some funny moments thrown in. The way Dax and Kailyn first met was so cute. She was the ultimate fan girl in that moment and it definitely put a smile on your face. You couldn’t help but feel for Emme and Dax though. This transition was one that neither of them was prepared for and I think that Dax handled it quite well. Dax adapting to taking care of his sister had some funny moments and then there were moments that were so heartbreaking. There was a lot of interference with the Aunt and I knew right away what her intentions were. I still can’t believe Dax didn’t figure it out sooner. It took a while for me to warm up to Kailyn. She just wasn’t someone I could connect to. Sheld on to this grudge that happened back in college and it took her too long to let it go. I got so tired of hearing about it and how it made her perceive Dax to be in this current situation. She also did some shady stuf along the way that she could have just came out and told, she had plenty of opportunities. With all that I still enjoyed.

Arc was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book was one of the biggest surprises of 2019 so far. I didn’t know what Meet Cute was all about when I picked it up, but within a couple pages I new I had a different kind of story in my hands. Different in regards to the author’s usual writing and storytelling.

It felt more earnest, emotional, but it still had the author’s signature wit, and brilliant writing. Unsurprisingly I love the single parent/guardian trope, combined with great banter, heartfelt moments, a hero that was out of his comfort zone, and a steadfast heroine that kicked ass – I got myself a winner.

There was so much I enjoyed about this novel.

Foremost Dax’s struggle with his new role as “dad” was utterly entertaining, maybe a bit stereotyped but oh so true, and the scene in the Aisle of Red had me laughing out loud. There were quite a few scenes that made me laugh, thanks to wonderful banter between Dax and Kailyn. Moreover the dynamic between the couple was very unique. In a gender role reversal Kailyn was Dax’s shoulder to lean on, his guide, and the calm after and through the storm. I really enjoyed how subtly the author changed the status quo.

Without a doubt there was genuine attraction and chemistry between the couple, from the very first meet to them working together. More than once Dax’s wandering thoughts made me chuckle and smile – he was such a guy! And Kailyn being his #1 fan lead to some awesome scenes – without ever becoming awkward. I loved how easily Dax took her fangirling in stride. And it was just a bonus how adorable Kailyn was fangirling over teenage Dax and her love for all things It’s My Life.

Truly, Meet Cute was a wonderful novel from start to finish.

4.5☆
Meet Cute as the name suggests is cute, but it's so much more than that. I just adored this story so much, it's sweet, emotional and romantic. My heart went out to Dax so much, all he wants is to care for his sister. He is such a sweet guy and he is going through so much. Kailyn has such a good heart and jusy wants to do right by Dax and Emme. I loved how much these two care and are willing to fight for what they love. I was so emotionally invested in all 3 of them. I felt like this packed more emotions than what I expected and I loved it!! Such a good read!!!

I apologize but after a few chapters, I realized the writing style and storyline of this title were not for me. This title might be more appropriate for a younger audience. I felt it lacked the depth, flow, and description that I prefer in a romance book. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to read this story. This is in no way a proper review because I did not complete this title. I look forward to the privilege of reading and reviewing other titles in the future that would better suit the style that I enjoy.

Where do I begin because I read this book in ONE SITTING! Literally started reading it after putting my kids to bed and just HAD to stay up and finish it by 4AM. Helena Hunting's books are addicting to me and I never know how or where I will end up in the story plot, but I don't care because I have yet met a book of hers that I did not like and I have read 13 of her books so far.

What I enjoyed most about this book is the lead character is a strong, intelligent lawyer that steals the show in the book. And who cannot remember their first young celebrity crush and wanting to fangirl so hard over them???!!!?? There is also so much more to the story, plenty of sad/depressing moments that pull your heart strings and plenty of moments where I still find myself giggling about in this book! Definitely in my Top Fave Reads so far this year!

A cute book about a second chance at love while dealing with life altering events. The characters were easy to engage and empathize with. Even though there are some tough situations that the characters deal with, the way to author incorporates the comedy into the story, nothing ever feels too heavy for a rom-com. The story moved at a fluid pace which caused me to finish this book in one day. A very enjoyable experience overall.

Meet Cute by Helena Hunting is an unforgettable and moving story of second chances and taking risks.

I was drawn to Meet Cute because Helena Hunting wrote it and this cover is so freaking cute that I just can't stand it! But don't judge this book strictly based on it's cover! It is not all light and fluffy. Although, it does have Hunting's signature humor, it packs an emotional punch!

Once I started reading Meet Cute, but weekend was almost completely monopolized by it, even when I felt heartbreak coming on, I dream (actually a nightmare) about one of the characters in the story that was causing a great deal of strife for Daxton and his sister.

Obviously the meet cute between Daxton and Kailyn was one of epic proportions and Kailyn is witty as hell! But that's not even the best part of this story. Kailyn's strength and intellect really thrilled me. I love seeing a powerful woman own who she is and embrace her quirks and Kailyn fully embodied that.

Daxton, sigh. To me he's JTT, you know that hot celeb that you had a crush on as a kid and kind of fell of into obscurity? Just imagine running into him in college, and then him become your number one rival!

The chemistry between these two was unmistakable and it was obvious that they wouldn't be able to resist each other for long. The journey was an emotional one and worth every heart break and tear. Meet Cute is a must read, enemies to friend to lovers novel!

DNF at 44%. Great title, clever premise, Absolutely smashing cover. However, the writing felt unpolished to me. The humorous moments never gelled and the dialogue veered into clunky more than once. Finally, too much telling instead of showing.

So this book was cute, as promised, and the characters and story had a lot of promise. I liked the idea of the parallel tragedies of the main characters lending some credence to their connection. HOWEVER. However. I felt like there was very little work done to get the reader to emotionally invest in the characters. They were interesting and the story was good, but I just didn’t really care. There were so many moments where the author could’ve added a little extra emotional _umph_ but just didn’t.

Let me give you an example. Kailyn lost her parents when she was relatively young and Daxton and Emme lost their parents at the beginning of the book. Kailyn and Daxton have maybe one substantive conversation about his dealing with the loss. This is a huge thing to go through, but he doesn’t really appear to be mourning at all. That’s not really a huge problem—everyone deals with grief differently—but he pivots from thinking about his parents’ death to thinking about how hot he thinks Kailyn is so quickly my eyes practically got whiplash while I was reading.

It’s not all bad, though. I did like the plot and appreciated that the characters seemed to grow a little bit, but it was just so formulaic and insubstantial that I didn’t really enjoy my time reading it.

Many of us have fantasized what it would be like to meet our teenage tv/movie crush ~ what we would say, what we would do, how we would throw ourselves at them. I was one of those lucky girls that got to meet a few of the members of very popular boy band in the early 1990’s during my freshman year of college, when they wandered in to our Boston dorm (still don’t have any idea who they were there to see). I didn’t do anything embarrassing (thankfully this was way before social media).

Daxton was the lead in a very popular tv series as a teenager. Kailyn and her best friend, Holly, used to make sure they were home for the show every week without fail. They also use to binge-watch marathons of the show on the weekends after it was over before binge-watching was a thing. When Kailyn ran smack dab into Dax on her way to her first class in law school (and I mean right in to him), it was more than slightly embarrassing, in a cute kind of a way. Then to find out that not only was her teenage crush a student, but in most of her classes, it led to a very unlikely friendship… until it didn’t.

Years later, they meet again when his parents are setting up a trust for Emme, his 13 year-old sister. Kailyn is having trouble seeing past the hurt of their final days of law school. But when Dax and Emme’s life is turned upside down less than six months later, Kailyn is thrust in to their lives, for better or for worse. Together, Dax and Kailyn try to navigate the waters of his teenage sister, while trying to fight Dax’s Aunt Linda so Dax can keep custody of Emme. While sparks fly between them, Kailyn has to make the choice of what’s the right path for her future ~ get Dax to sign on with her law firm and she makes partner or does she take a step back from her career to have a relationship that she’s always wanted.

This is no means my first book by Helena Hunting. I love when authors tackle something newish to them and give us something good. Now don’t get me wrong, this book may not be for everyone. But I thoroughly enjoyed it. It has everything I’m looking for in an escape ~ humor, drama, intrigue, cute banter, angst, heartbreak, misunderstandings and heat. It may be just what you’re looking for.

Meet Cute is so cute!

It follows Kailyn and Daxton as they reconnect after law school. Well...Kailyn is Daxton's biggest fan until after law school. Tragedy happens when Daxton's parents tragically killed in a car accident leaving Daxton to take care of his thirteen year old sister. Kailyn is appointed the conservator of his sister's trust and they are forced to reconnect.

As Daxton is navigating trying to figure out a teenager, Kailyn creeps back into his life and they have a "meet cute" moment.

This is a great rom com and is so stinking cute. Will Kailyn become Daxton's biggest fan again? Will Daxton figure out how to take care of a teenager?

I guess you will just have to read it! It comes out April 9th.

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the advance e-galley.

Meet Cute was even better than I had expected.

Having never read anything by Helena Hunting before I didn’t know what kind of book she writes. I was sort of expecting something super fluffy and light and a bit silly. This was SO much more than that.

It was moving and emotional as well as laugh-out-loud funny and completely swoony. Hunting can definitely add me to her list of readers because I need to hunt down more of her books! I loved every minute of this and will shove this book at all of my fellow contemporary readers.

This book turned out much different than I expected. I love Helena Hunting's writing and her rom-coms are some of my absolute favorites in the genre. That being said, this one surprised me because I was expecting some of the same based on the blurb and the cover. There were definitely some fun moments, but it actually ended up being much more emotional to me. That being said, it did not make me like the story any less. I was definitely intrigued to see where the story was going and it definitely had me hooked. I enjoyed the characters and I always look forward to more from Helena.

This wasn’t cute as the title would have you believe. Instead we have two bland characters and a book where the author tells us everything that happens instead of showing us. I’m very disappointed because the blurb sounded promising. But looks can be deceiving.

I think this was the most complex of Helena's books I have read. It's still the cute, sexy, and funny book I have come to expect from her, but this plot was more heavy from previous that I have read.

The banter, enemy to friends to enemies to friends to lovers theme in this book is spot on. I enjoyed every last minute of it. These characters made the book. They are so well developed, I couldn't not connect to them in a way that made the book so mesmerising I almost didn't want it to end.

The protagonist in this story added that extra layer to this story. It added a little kind of side plot that enriched the main plot of the book. It added angst and longing between Dax and Kailyn that was so palpable, I could feel all of their emotions.

This book is an overall extremely enjoyable read. I couldn't put it down. If you haven't picked up one of Helena's books yet, there is no better time than now to start.