This is a story about air traffic controller Pippa and pilot Andrew, who, after communicating through the radio for months, recognize each other’s voices in an airport café while Pippa is waiting for her flight to her hometown for a class reunion. After an interesting conversation, they agree to be each other’s fake dates to stop their families from pressuring them about dating.
This is a new to me author, I hadn’t heard of or come across any of their books before, but the cover of Love at First Flight caught my attention. I’m really glad I decided to give it a try.
The novel is well-written and kept me engaged throughout.
I loved Pippa and was rooting for her the whole way. She’s on the autism spectrum and very blunt, which I found refreshing. I admired how she knows exactly what she wants and what she likes, never settling for less. Through her obsession with synonyms, I even learned a lot of new words and their alternatives.
I also enjoyed the unique setting of South Africa. The fake dating trope was developed beautifully, and I really enjoyed that too!

Thank you Netgalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the ARC!

This was a sweet, light read with minimal conflict making it the perfect book to indulge in and escape to for a mental break. I really enjoyed the setting and aviation elements in this story. I've read a lot of romance but both of those things felt different and fresh. I also appreciated the author's thoughtful representation of Pippa's autism. I wish there had been a little less internal narration at the start of the book, but the characters' chemistry comes through and I will be on the lookout for more from this author.

Thank to #NetGalley and #WattpadWebtoonBookGroup for the book #LoveAtFirstFlight by #JoWatson. This is such an entertaining book about planes, relationships and falling in love. Pippa is an air traffic controller and single with the ten year reunion coming up. Andrew is a pilot with a nagging family about him being single. Together, they hatch a plan to fake date each other when needed. But then something called feelings breaks through. Could this turn into something else?

The story was fun and lighthearted and I had a good time reading it.
This was a wonderfully written romantic comedy.
I absolutely loved these characters and really enjoyed getting to know them.
A sweet, funny and heartwarming read!

Thanks to Netgalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the E-Book. In this story we see Pippa (ATC) and Andrew (a pilot) decide to do this whole fake dating to get family and friends off their back. This is the cutes story and a little spicy ;) of fake dating that Ive read in a minute. Andrew is the ultimate book boyfriend the patience and care and understanding he had for Pippa was just chefs kiss.

Love at First Flight was one of the most distractingly interesting books I’ve ever read. I’ll warn you: don’t read it on an electronic device with internet access because, like me, you might find yourself constantly tempted to Google things like underwater villas in Dubai (gorgeous, by the way), Helios Airways Flight 522 (the tragic plane crash in 2005), and a plethora of other fascinating facts that the main female protagonist casually throws into the story. (I don’t think I’ll ever look at Greek sculptures or think of mermaids the same way again!)

Things that Pippa Edwards liked: fish, patterns, synonyms, and anything aviation-related. Things that Pippa didn’t like: tight clothes, surprises or unpredictable situations, and her upcoming 10-year high school reunion.

Still trying to figure out how her friend Jennifer managed to talk her into it, Pippa reluctantly waits for her flight, challenging the universe to show her three signs to prove that attending the reunion is a bad idea (despite not believing in the concept of semiotics). After three consecutive letdowns, Pippa is convinced to cancel her trip - until a familiar voice in her favorite airport coffee shop, one she’d only ever heard through her headset, sets the stage for an awkward yet intriguing encounter and a potentially flawed but brilliant idea.

As Flightbird Six Zero Zero (now known as Andrew Boyce-Jones) and Pippa discuss their shared frustrations with their families’ well-meaning but relentless harassment about their dating statuses, they come to a mutually beneficial agreement: Andrew will accompany Pippa to her reunion as her fake boyfriend (as well as her cousin’s wedding), and she will join him at his mother’s sixtieth birthday celebration. The arrangement would protect them from unwarranted relationship-status questions and provide them both the breathing room they crave from their intrusive families.

Neither of them wants a relationship - both happily married to their careers - so there’s no risk, no chance, and absolutely no opportunity for this to develop into anything more.

Or so they thought…

The characters spread throughout the book - whether neurotypical or neurodiverse, positive or negative, influential or damaging - created such a vast array of impacts on who Pippa was, how she viewed the world, and how the world viewed her. Then, being able to see that same world through Andrew’s eyes added even more depth and perspective.

As much as you might want to find Pippa’s long rambles annoying, you can’t help but be entranced by them! Initially, I felt like she was a bit long-winded and wasn’t sure where most of her mental dumps were headed, but after reading for a while, I couldn’t help but find them incredibly fascinating. As you continue to read, you adjust to the nuances that make Pippa who she is. There are even moments where her impressive introspection makes her extremely relatable.

Jo Watson elaborates on this in the Author's Note, sharing that many of Pippa’s traits, behaviors, and idiosyncrasies mirror her own, as she was recently diagnosed with Autism. At the same time, Pippa’s experiences might resonate with those who may be introverted, experience social anxiety, or feel easily overstimulated by certain sensory situations (such as how clothing feels, or specific sights and sounds). Watson’s candid explanation allows readers without a diagnosis - or those who may not yet have one - to feel a stronger connection not only to the female protagonist but to the author herself.

This level of relatability and vulnerability - not only from the character but from the author - was delicately balanced by the subtle humor, which keeps you smiling and chuckling throughout. I learned SO much from Pippa’s character that I found myself eagerly awaiting the next interesting fact to come out of her mouth! I challenge you not to catch yourself using synonyms for common, everyday words.

I was surprised to find the book steamy - it even bordered on spicy. The intimacy between the two characters was heightened by the understanding of how connection and emotions affected Pippa. In these moments, she was able to let go, feel, and simply be in the moment - absorbing the intensity for what it was, without a care for the consequences. Her mind shut off, and in those moments, she was free.

Even though this was definitely a love story, I also felt it was a book about self-discovery. Pippa didn’t need to change who she was, but she did need to learn to accept that some people in the world truly believed she was enough exactly as she was.

While I didn’t feel like there was any profound lesson or central focus to the book, I thoroughly enjoyed the natural evolution of Pippa and Andrew’s relationship.

This is my first book by Jo Watson, and I feel like I am walking away more enlightened and open-minded than I had expected. The thought, time, and care she put into creating this story were evident, and I hope those who read it find the same sense of joy and satisfaction that I did.

~ All Spoilers have been removed

"Love at First Flight" is a rom-com with wonderfully deep and complex characters with diverse family systems. The FMC is on the autism spectrum and is written so perfectly; the MMC comes from a non-traditional family with his own stories to tell. Together, they just might be a perfect fit. I read this book in one sitting, is was THAT good! This would have been a 5-star read for me, but the spice level was too much. I was disappointed in that aspect of the book, because the FMC was written so well that I can see this book being used as an inspiration for younger teenage girls who might be neurodivergent, feeling like they don't fit in. If this book were closed-door, I would feel like I could recommend it to them. If spice is your jam, then you this will be a plus for you. 4/5 stars for me. *I received a complimentary copy from the author/publishing company via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts & opinions are my own.

Huge thank you to Wattpad Books and Jo Watson for this ARC! 💙

Growing up, I always wanted to be a pilot—who doesn’t dream of flying, right? So, when I saw “Love at First Flight,” a workplace romance between a neurodivergent air traffic controller and a pilot, I was instantly hooked. If you love romantic comedy books with heart and depth, this one’s for you!

💙 What I loved most:
Pippa is one of the best-written neurodivergent characters I’ve read in a long time. Her autism representation is done authentically and beautifully—from her blunt honesty to her habit of spouting random facts when nervous (relatable, anyone? 🙋‍♀️). I adored her inner monologue, and she easily became one of my favorite romance heroines this year.

💫 What to expect:
✔️ Workplace romance ✈️
✔️ Fake dating trope 💍
✔️ Autistic main character 🧠
✔️ Cinnamon roll hero 💕
✔️ Single POV (but you’ll wish for dual!)

💘 How was the romance?
There’s something truly magical about a relationship where two people accept each other fully. Andrew is patient, kind, and utterly respectful of Pippa’s quirks—never once trying to change her. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. 🔥 Watching their relationship blossom with every interaction had me grinning like a fool.

⭐ Do I recommend this book?
Absolutely! If you love fake dating romance, quirky heroines, and slow-burn love stories, this book is a must-read. While I loved Pippa’s POV, I’m begging for Andrew’s side of the story—because trust me, you’ll want all of his thoughts too.

If you're searching for romance novels with autistic characters, feel-good love stories, and a hero who truly sees his girl, “Love at First Flight” will steal your heart. ❤️

3.75 stars This book is sweet, delightful and adorable (Pippa the FMC loves synonyms). I have not read a Jo Watson book before, and I didn’t know what to expect, and what I got was a slow burn, he falls first that made me giddy, and characters I fell completely in love with.

It took me a bit to get into this book, but once I got to know the characters, it really took flight. Pippa is autistic and is a brilliant air traffic controller. Andrew is a pilot who frequently lands at her airport. When they recognize each other’s voices at an airport restaurant, they get to talking and realize they could help get their families off their backs by fake dating at special functions.

In her forward, Jo Watson mentions she received her autism diagnosis later in life, and how much it helped her understand herself. That understanding is made so clear in Pippa’s character development. As the mother of a neurodivergent son, I can tell you that Pippa is so authentic, and she clearly exemplifies the very best characteristics of high functioning autism, while also showing the struggles.

The slow burn of this book felt like an old fashioned love story. I couldn’t wait for their quick conversations as she gave him his landing instructions. Just the looks, smiles and slight touches had me wanting more. She has to get use to hugging and starts off just giving him a quick hug with a tap on the back which they call pugs, so cute. The spice is light, but so rewarding.

Pippa is literal, doesn’t understand sarcasm, can only socialize in small amounts, and doesn’t handle change easily. She also makes inappropriate but often hilarious comments. I love that Andrew not only accepts Pippa’s quirks, but loves her more for them.

I loved that the message for this book is that everyone is worthy of love. Love at First Flight will lighten your mood and leave you feeling good about life. I highly recommend

Thank you to #NetGalley and #Wattpadbooks for the ARC in return for an honest review

This book was so sweet! I absolutely adored Pippa, and being on the autism spectrum while also being an air traffic controller and how she navigates her life was such an interesting read. And pilot Andrew was so good with her, though I do think his character could have been fleshed out a bit more. It’s only from Pippa’s POV though so I get why it wasn’t. Also love that it takes place in South Africa, and gives a new twist on the fake dating trope.

This author is new to me, but I will be keeping an eye out for anything else they publish. I loved the story and the characters. The pacing of the story was great and the characters were relatable.

“Love at First Flight” by Jo Watson, was a fun, heartwarming read! I, like Jo Watson, was recently diagnosed as being on the spectrum so I was very excited to check this one out because of its neurodivergent lead, and it did not disappoint. “Love at First Flight” is a solid 4 star read for me!

Pippa, an air traffic controller, and Andrew, a pilot (aka "Flightbird Six Zero Zero"), agree to fake date—she needs a reunion date, and he needs his family off his back. Their banter, even over the intercom, is really charming.

What really stood out for me was Pippa’s autism representation. Jo Watson, gave Pippa a lot of her own traits, and it felt real—her love of airplanes and synonyms, her struggles with social cues, even sensory overload moments. Seeing that perspective in a romance was amazing.

Andrew is total golden retriever boyfriend material—patient, kind, and fully accepting of Pippa as she is. Their chemistry is Chef’s kiss. The slow burn was incredibly well done. That said, some might find Pippa’s inner monologues a bit detailed, and Andrew a little too perfect.

But overall? This is a funny, feel-good romance about self-acceptance and finding someone who loves you exactly as you are. If you like fake dating, workplace romance, and authentic neurodivergent rep, definitely give it a read!

Love At First Flight
•
“It was as if the entire world and all the elements were involved in this moment, the stars and sky and clouds and wind and engine roar.”
☁️🛩️
How do I know a book is going to be a five star read? When I stay up until 2:30 in the morning reading, I did not want to put this book down and I think it should be on everyone’s tbr!! Let’s start with the easy things you’ll love…the authors note in the beginning sets the book up perfectly, it was authentic and kind, I always appreciate when authors share a piece of themselves with us. It’s funny, we get some spice, Pippa and Andrew will give you butterflies and have you smiling and giggling, it’s sweet, and just felt warm and glowy (just trust me lol). It is single POV, but I felt like Jo wrote in a way that we could tell how Andrew was feeling and what he was thinking along the way. We didn’t hear much about the setting, but it does take place in South Africa and I don’t think I’ve read a book that takes place there so I enjoyed that! I fell in love with every piece right away 🧡
•
I loved the autism representation and I think the book does an amazing job at tackling autism / neuro-difference misinformation. Andrew and Pippa’s story came so naturally and beautifully. Everything that she questioned about herself were the things that made him fall in love with her 🥹
“When people get to know me well, they usually don’t like me.”
“That’s just not true. The more I’ve gotten to know you, the more I’ve liked you, no…no, loved you.”
•
The air traffic control and pilot situation was not only very timely, but also kinda hot…I said what I said. “I trust you to help land my plane.” I mean come on?! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
Thank you @jowatsonwrites @wbywattpadbooks and @netgalley for this e-arc, mark your calendars, preorder, do what you gotta do to get this book, it comes out March 18th!

[ARC review]
LOVE AT FIRST FLIGHT by Jo Watson is the first of two ARCs I have with that title.

This one is about a nuerodivergent air traffic controller Pippa and Andrew, the pilot she convinces to fake date her for their various social engagements, to keep people off their backs about why they are still single.

Air traffic control is a fun deviation from the usual romance writer occupation, and the setting in South Africa was a first for me. It was cool to see someone in a high stakes job with career ambitions, none of which had to be tempered because of her relationship.

It is #OwnVoices, as both the author and main character are autistic, and Watson says in the author's note that she gave Pippa some of her own characteristics and interests, along with others that are common amongst those with autism. But obviously one character cannot encompass the full scope of what it is to be on the autism spectrum, which is exactly why we need lots of books about diverse experiences. Because it's still necessary to show and remind people that everyone deserves to be loved, and that the right person loves you for who you are.

This is a contemporary romance featuring Pippa Edwards, a neurodivergent air traffic controller, and Andrew Boyce-Jones, a pilot. Their daily professional interactions take an unexpected turn when they finally meet in person and agree to a fake dating arrangement. As they spend more time together, real feelings develop, leading to a heartfelt and humorous love story.

Set against the unique backdrop of the aviation industry, the novel explores themes of self-acceptance, personal growth, and unexpected love. With its engaging characters and slow-burn romance, it’s a charming and uplifting read for fans of romantic comedies.

Love at First Flight is a wonderful fake dating. romance. This story is told from Pippa’s perspective. She loves fish, planes and synonyms; and is fed up with her family wishing she had a boyfriend. She then strikes up a fake dating plot with “Flightbird Six Zero Zero”. Fake dates lead to real friendship, and then the sparks come. I loved Pippa and I loved Andrew and they were so special together. I appreciate how Andrew made it clear that he treasured everything about her, especially the things that she had come to believe make her unloveable. An open door romance filled with humor, tenderness, and the type of communication where people feel accepted for who they are and. can imagine a bigger future than they previously thought possible.

Oh my word!

I loved this one!

He’s a pilot and she is an air traffic controller. They meet through work and decide they could both benefit from fake dating.

She is on the Autism Spectrum and he is just the absolute best with all of her sensory processing needs. This is so sweet and quirky and all the things!

I read this all in one day which I NEVER do! It was a super fun romance and gets all the stars from me!

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this as an ARC!

While I can seriously appreciate the representation of a neurodivergent person on the spectrum, this book didn’t really do it for me… the setting was great (Helooooooo South Africa), the premise was good, but dang, the writing left so much to be desired. At times it felt quite juvenile, and at times the inner monologue of the FMC was so long that I found myself skipping large chunks of the chapters. I do understand this to be part of the autism representation, but at times felt too information overload and it took me out of the story itself.

While others may love this book, it just wasn’t it for me.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

Right from the start, the author’s note set the perfect tone, helping me understand the heart behind this story. As a neurodiverse reader, I truly appreciated the thoughtful and authentic representation—it meant so much.

And then… we get the cutest meet-cute EVER! Pippa is a force to be reckoned with, but watching her be her true self around Andrew? Absolutely heartwarming and so relatable. And Andrew? The ultimate book boyfriend—kind, patient, caring, and completely dependable. Their connection is pure magic.

And just when I thought I had this book figured out—that tear-jerking surprise ending! I was not ready! This is an absolute must-read—add it to your TBR now!

Easy four stars! Slow to start, but really cute once I got into it. Good autism rep, fun fake dating trope, and the aviation/airplane part of this was so interesting to me!