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Meet Cute or Your Money Back
He promised her a meet cute.
He didn’t expect to fall into one himself.
I know what women want in a man and they pay me a lot of money to find it for them. With the help of my fellow ex-special forces brothers, I opened up a matchmaking business where we use our military skills to help our clients find The One. And it turns out a little military strategy goes a long way.
I treat each new client in my matchmaking business like its own mission. And I’m proud to say that I have a one hundred percent success rate.
Or at least I did. Before Allie Larsen entered the picture.
She’s smart. She’s beautiful. She’s charming…
… and she’s impossible to please.
But when it turns out Allie has secrets she’s been keeping, she not only jeopardizes her own matchmaking mission, but she puts both our lives in danger.
Except this time, it's not only my life at risk... it's my heart.
When they said, "All's fair in love and war," I'm not sure this is what they meant.
A slow-burn romantic comedy for readers who love witty banter, found family, and a little suspense without the darkness.
He didn’t expect to fall into one himself.
I know what women want in a man and they pay me a lot of money to find it for them. With the help of my fellow ex-special forces brothers, I opened up a matchmaking business where we use our military skills to help our clients find The One. And it turns out a little military strategy goes a long way.
I treat each new client in my matchmaking business like its own mission. And I’m proud to say that I have a one hundred percent success rate.
Or at least I did. Before Allie Larsen entered the picture.
She’s smart. She’s beautiful. She’s charming…
… and she’s impossible to please.
But when it turns out Allie has secrets she’s been keeping, she not only jeopardizes her own matchmaking mission, but she puts both our lives in danger.
Except this time, it's not only my life at risk... it's my heart.
When they said, "All's fair in love and war," I'm not sure this is what they meant.
A slow-burn romantic comedy for readers who love witty banter, found family, and a little suspense without the darkness.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2025
27 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Katana Collins
94 books671 followersKatana Collins is a USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels, novellas, and comic books in a variety of genres. She is most known for her sensual contemporary romances and her wildly popular comic book— Batman White Knight Presents: Harley Quinn with DC Comics.
When she was younger and stole her mother’s Harlequins to read beneath the covers with a flashlight, she wanted to read about the tough as nails heroine. The perfectly imperfect girl with quirks and attitude and sass. And the anti-heroes who were anything but “Prince Charming.” Forget the knight on a white horse … she wanted the bad boy on a motorcycle.
An avid animal lover, she lives in Portland, Maine with her kind of mean cat, derpy lab-pitt mix, mellow chihuahua, and very not mellow cairn terrier puppy. Oh, yeah… there’s a husband somewhere in that mix, too.
She can usually be found in a coffee shop with her nose buried in a laptop wearing fabulous (albeit sometimes impractical) shoes.
She loves connecting with book lovers like herself, and fellow sassy storytellers, so feel free to drop her an email, visit her on her website. She also loves connecting on Instagram, Facebook or in her reader group, Kat’s Kittens!
When she was younger and stole her mother’s Harlequins to read beneath the covers with a flashlight, she wanted to read about the tough as nails heroine. The perfectly imperfect girl with quirks and attitude and sass. And the anti-heroes who were anything but “Prince Charming.” Forget the knight on a white horse … she wanted the bad boy on a motorcycle.
An avid animal lover, she lives in Portland, Maine with her kind of mean cat, derpy lab-pitt mix, mellow chihuahua, and very not mellow cairn terrier puppy. Oh, yeah… there’s a husband somewhere in that mix, too.
She can usually be found in a coffee shop with her nose buried in a laptop wearing fabulous (albeit sometimes impractical) shoes.
She loves connecting with book lovers like herself, and fellow sassy storytellers, so feel free to drop her an email, visit her on her website. She also loves connecting on Instagram, Facebook or in her reader group, Kat’s Kittens!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 4, 2025
I was provided an ARC of this book via the author and Literally Your PR, all opinions are my own.
This was a really fun rom-com about an aspiring investigative journalist and a former Navy Seal turned matchmaker. Allie is a food critic for a local newspaper, but her dream is to be an investigative journalist. She hasn't hit her big break yet, but while writing her latest food column she spots an interesting situation that might just make for a great pitch to her editor. Enter Thatcher, a retired Navy Seal who has started a covert matchmaking company to raise his son after tragedy struck his family. Two of his special forces buddies help him run his company, and they also help him on a secret non-matchmaking mission on the side.
Allie hires Thatcher to find her soul mate, and she plans to write the best piece of journalism she can about dating and matchmaking she possibly can without breaking her NDA. The only problem in she and Thatcher seem to have more chemistry than any of the dates he sets her up on. As Allie and Thatcher get to know each other better, she uncovers his side mission and that his special forces days aren't quite over. While she is writing a piece on his matchmaking, she may be onto something much bigger and much more dangerous.
You do have to suspend your disbelief a few times for the zany things Allie does and some of the situations our couple are put into at the end. They get into some unrealistic situations, which make give the book plenty of humorous moments, which makes this an entertaining read. This has a big of a romantic suspense element on top of the humor.
The epilogue with Maple the rescue dog was heart wrenching and beautiful. That chapter alone gets 5 stars! Biscuit was such a huge part of the book, but he really stole my heart during this scene.
This was a really fun rom-com about an aspiring investigative journalist and a former Navy Seal turned matchmaker. Allie is a food critic for a local newspaper, but her dream is to be an investigative journalist. She hasn't hit her big break yet, but while writing her latest food column she spots an interesting situation that might just make for a great pitch to her editor. Enter Thatcher, a retired Navy Seal who has started a covert matchmaking company to raise his son after tragedy struck his family. Two of his special forces buddies help him run his company, and they also help him on a secret non-matchmaking mission on the side.
Allie hires Thatcher to find her soul mate, and she plans to write the best piece of journalism she can about dating and matchmaking she possibly can without breaking her NDA. The only problem in she and Thatcher seem to have more chemistry than any of the dates he sets her up on. As Allie and Thatcher get to know each other better, she uncovers his side mission and that his special forces days aren't quite over. While she is writing a piece on his matchmaking, she may be onto something much bigger and much more dangerous.
You do have to suspend your disbelief a few times for the zany things Allie does and some of the situations our couple are put into at the end. They get into some unrealistic situations, which make give the book plenty of humorous moments, which makes this an entertaining read. This has a big of a romantic suspense element on top of the humor.
The epilogue with Maple the rescue dog was heart wrenching and beautiful. That chapter alone gets 5 stars! Biscuit was such a huge part of the book, but he really stole my heart during this scene.
June 9, 2025
I enjoyed the book and the story. It felt a little quick, the story progressed faster than I anticipated. It was written beautifully, the words descriptive and poetic.
Allie wants to be an investigative journalist but she’s currently stuck as a food critic. When she witnesses an interesting interaction between a man and a woman on their first date, she realizes the woman is being coached from afar by a male matchmaker and Allie is determined to investigate more. She confronts the matchmaker after the interaction and he reacts by holding a gun on her. A little out of left field and now Allie is even more determined to figure out this enigma of a man.
Thatcher is a single dad, ex-navy seal turned matchmaker to honor his late wife’s dream. He meets Allie in an alleyway when she introduces herself and decides she wants to hire him.
While Allie is digging into who and what Thatcher is, he is trying to set her up with her soulmate. Except that Allie isn’t in it for the soulmate - just the story. She’s not a very good date, she’s clumsy, brash, and not very graceful. While Thatcher is trying to train her to date and figure out who she should be set up with, his jealousies get in the way and he realizes he has feelings for his client. Allie loves the witty banter back and forth between her and Thatcher and can’t seem to get him off her mind.
I read this book as an ARC, and this is my honest review. There were some editing issues with the copy I received (misnaming a character, adding a title where it didn’t belong, etc). I enjoyed the story, but it was a bit predictable and it felt like the deep connections between the characters wasn’t as developed as it could have been. Overall, it’s a fun read, and I’d be interested in continuing the series!
Allie wants to be an investigative journalist but she’s currently stuck as a food critic. When she witnesses an interesting interaction between a man and a woman on their first date, she realizes the woman is being coached from afar by a male matchmaker and Allie is determined to investigate more. She confronts the matchmaker after the interaction and he reacts by holding a gun on her. A little out of left field and now Allie is even more determined to figure out this enigma of a man.
Thatcher is a single dad, ex-navy seal turned matchmaker to honor his late wife’s dream. He meets Allie in an alleyway when she introduces herself and decides she wants to hire him.
While Allie is digging into who and what Thatcher is, he is trying to set her up with her soulmate. Except that Allie isn’t in it for the soulmate - just the story. She’s not a very good date, she’s clumsy, brash, and not very graceful. While Thatcher is trying to train her to date and figure out who she should be set up with, his jealousies get in the way and he realizes he has feelings for his client. Allie loves the witty banter back and forth between her and Thatcher and can’t seem to get him off her mind.
I read this book as an ARC, and this is my honest review. There were some editing issues with the copy I received (misnaming a character, adding a title where it didn’t belong, etc). I enjoyed the story, but it was a bit predictable and it felt like the deep connections between the characters wasn’t as developed as it could have been. Overall, it’s a fun read, and I’d be interested in continuing the series!
June 7, 2025
This book literally had me laughing out loud. The banter between Thatcher and Allie was on point! They were the perfect Grumpy x Sunshine trope.
After losing his wife and being left with a young son to care for Thatcher had written off love. Then Allie bounced into his life. I loved that this stern ex-military man was a matchmaker. He isn't who you would expect for a matchmaker and he delivers some of his thoughts in a dry way that made me laugh.
I really loved that rescues were a huge part of this book. Allie's dog is a rescue and she would do anything for her dog. I have a huge place in my heart for rescues, especially rescued dogs. Without giving away any spoilers the epilogue made my heart so happy.
This book had a little bit of everything. It will make you laugh and it will make your heart go out for Thatcher. There is action as well as romance.
After losing his wife and being left with a young son to care for Thatcher had written off love. Then Allie bounced into his life. I loved that this stern ex-military man was a matchmaker. He isn't who you would expect for a matchmaker and he delivers some of his thoughts in a dry way that made me laugh.
I really loved that rescues were a huge part of this book. Allie's dog is a rescue and she would do anything for her dog. I have a huge place in my heart for rescues, especially rescued dogs. Without giving away any spoilers the epilogue made my heart so happy.
This book had a little bit of everything. It will make you laugh and it will make your heart go out for Thatcher. There is action as well as romance.
July 14, 2025
Very entertaining
Such an entertaining story!
I have enjoyed several works by this creative author and this book is another. The chemistry between Allie and Thatcher was palpable from the beginning, even if neither one of them admitted it.
This has all the things that keep a reader engaged:
Interesting characters
Well moving storyline
Drama and danger
Adorable kid and dog
Sassy and smart banter
A determined heroine
A capable and protective hero
Steamy chemistry and sizzle
and more!
I recommend this read and this author. Once done here, revisit her catalog for more addictive and engaging reads.
Can't wait for more!
Such an entertaining story!
I have enjoyed several works by this creative author and this book is another. The chemistry between Allie and Thatcher was palpable from the beginning, even if neither one of them admitted it.
This has all the things that keep a reader engaged:
Interesting characters
Well moving storyline
Drama and danger
Adorable kid and dog
Sassy and smart banter
A determined heroine
A capable and protective hero
Steamy chemistry and sizzle
and more!
I recommend this read and this author. Once done here, revisit her catalog for more addictive and engaging reads.
Can't wait for more!
June 4, 2025
Oh. Em. Gee!!!! This book is FREAKING FANTASTIC!!!! I was completely captivated and literally couldn’t put it down. There’s romance, danger, dogs and hilarious dating escapades! I’ll be back after I get my feels and thoughts in order
.
.
.
Allie finds herself working a new story completely by accident. She’s an all-in kind of gal and she’s committed to it. What she doesn’t expect is getting to know Thatcher and his son, Duke. The banter between Allie and Thatcher was fun and seeing the chemistry build 🔥 *chef’s kiss* This book had everything! Romance, laughs, danger and all the feels! Please do yourself a favor and read this AHHHHMAZING book!
.
.
.
Allie finds herself working a new story completely by accident. She’s an all-in kind of gal and she’s committed to it. What she doesn’t expect is getting to know Thatcher and his son, Duke. The banter between Allie and Thatcher was fun and seeing the chemistry build 🔥 *chef’s kiss* This book had everything! Romance, laughs, danger and all the feels! Please do yourself a favor and read this AHHHHMAZING book!
June 21, 2025
“𝙒𝙚𝙡𝙡, 𝙡𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙚𝙩 𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙮.”
What is going on with all the ex-navy seal romances lately? Is that the new thing?? You guys are killing me with it 😩😩 This was a very quick and cute read. RomCom with a bit is suspense thrown in. Katana Collins is a new author for me and I really enjoyed her writing style.
In this book we meet Allie who is a food critic but secretly wants to break into investigative journalism. Don’t we all kinda want to be Keith Morrison from dateline ? No? Just me and Allie? Ok cool 👀👀 while on assignment at a restaurant she notices a couple on a date. What really catches her eye though, is the handsome man coaching the female on her date…strange…and now Allie is intrigued and forgetting all about the food she’s supposed to be writing about.
Allie decides to dig a little deeper and confronts the man…she quickly realises that might have been a bad idea since he pulls a pew pew on her in the alley 🙃
Thatcher is an ex navy seal and single dad who is now branching out into match making after the passing of his wife. He’s using his skills to match people but like most military men who leave the service, he’s not really done until he says so. While he is a match maker, he’s also working on cases covertly with his navy seal buddies.
Allie is immediately intrigued…sending a story behind the ex navy seal turned match maker, so despite their horrendous first encounter, she convinces him to be her match maker. But she’s not at all interested in finding love, just uncovering what the real story is. Unfortunately, fate has other plans and both Thatcher and Allie find themselves falling for each other.
Allie gets a little too investigative for her own good and ends up seeing some stuff she shouldn’t have…putting herself in danger and causing Thatcher to lean into his alpha protective mode. Honestly I don’t think he ever stopped being in that mode, it was just more subdued.
All in all the book was good. Wasn’t great, but it was a fun quick read. There were some parts that were wildly unbelievable and yes…I know it’s fiction but sometimes we can take it a little too far out of the realm of actuality and this happened towards the end. For me it took me out of the book a bit and caused me to not love the end. But that’s just me. It may not be an issue for you guys! So if you love a crazy meet cute with a broody ex navy seal match maker and a clumsy food journalist whose trying to crack some cases, this is the book for you 🩷
Thank you so much to Katana Collins and Literally Yours PR for the opportunity to ARC read this book 🩷
⚓️RomCom
🍝Food Critic FMC
⚓️Ex Navy Seal Turned Match Maker MMC
🍝Grumpy x Sunshine
⚓️Terrifying Meet Cute
🍝Single Dad
⚓️Suspense
🍝Secrets
⚓️Slow Burn
🍝Rescue Pups
⚓️Opposites Attract
🍝Dual POV
What is going on with all the ex-navy seal romances lately? Is that the new thing?? You guys are killing me with it 😩😩 This was a very quick and cute read. RomCom with a bit is suspense thrown in. Katana Collins is a new author for me and I really enjoyed her writing style.
In this book we meet Allie who is a food critic but secretly wants to break into investigative journalism. Don’t we all kinda want to be Keith Morrison from dateline ? No? Just me and Allie? Ok cool 👀👀 while on assignment at a restaurant she notices a couple on a date. What really catches her eye though, is the handsome man coaching the female on her date…strange…and now Allie is intrigued and forgetting all about the food she’s supposed to be writing about.
Allie decides to dig a little deeper and confronts the man…she quickly realises that might have been a bad idea since he pulls a pew pew on her in the alley 🙃
Thatcher is an ex navy seal and single dad who is now branching out into match making after the passing of his wife. He’s using his skills to match people but like most military men who leave the service, he’s not really done until he says so. While he is a match maker, he’s also working on cases covertly with his navy seal buddies.
Allie is immediately intrigued…sending a story behind the ex navy seal turned match maker, so despite their horrendous first encounter, she convinces him to be her match maker. But she’s not at all interested in finding love, just uncovering what the real story is. Unfortunately, fate has other plans and both Thatcher and Allie find themselves falling for each other.
Allie gets a little too investigative for her own good and ends up seeing some stuff she shouldn’t have…putting herself in danger and causing Thatcher to lean into his alpha protective mode. Honestly I don’t think he ever stopped being in that mode, it was just more subdued.
All in all the book was good. Wasn’t great, but it was a fun quick read. There were some parts that were wildly unbelievable and yes…I know it’s fiction but sometimes we can take it a little too far out of the realm of actuality and this happened towards the end. For me it took me out of the book a bit and caused me to not love the end. But that’s just me. It may not be an issue for you guys! So if you love a crazy meet cute with a broody ex navy seal match maker and a clumsy food journalist whose trying to crack some cases, this is the book for you 🩷
Thank you so much to Katana Collins and Literally Yours PR for the opportunity to ARC read this book 🩷
⚓️RomCom
🍝Food Critic FMC
⚓️Ex Navy Seal Turned Match Maker MMC
🍝Grumpy x Sunshine
⚓️Terrifying Meet Cute
🍝Single Dad
⚓️Suspense
🍝Secrets
⚓️Slow Burn
🍝Rescue Pups
⚓️Opposites Attract
🍝Dual POV
June 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Fun, Flirty, and Just a Little Bit Wild
Huge thanks to the author and Literally Yours PR for the eARC of Meet Cute or Your Money Back! I was lucky to read this one early, and as always, all opinions are my own.
This rom-com was such a fun ride! Allie is a food critic with big dreams of becoming an investigative journalist. While out on assignment, she stumbles onto something... unusual, a matchmaking service run by a former Navy SEAL. Naturally, she signs up, hoping it might lead to a killer story and maybe even her soulmate. What she doesn’t expect? That the real spark might be with the matchmaker himself.
Thatcher is the kind of romance hero that feels both over-the-top and endearing. He’s ex-military, uses tactical strategies to pair people up, and is raising his son while trying to leave his old life behind, sort of. His chemistry with Allie jumps off the page, and I loved watching their relationship unfold, even when things got a little chaotic.
Yes, you’ll have to suspend disbelief here and there (some of the situations they find themselves in are straight-up bonkers), but it just adds to the charm. It’s rom-com with a dash of romantic suspense and a whole lot of heart.
Also, can we talk about the epilogue? Maple the rescue dog broke me. That scene with Biscuit was so unexpectedly emotional and sweet. Honestly, that chapter alone is worth the read.
If you love quirky, slightly outrageous love stories with heart, humor, and a few action-movie moments thrown in, this one’s for you.
Huge thanks to the author and Literally Yours PR for the eARC of Meet Cute or Your Money Back! I was lucky to read this one early, and as always, all opinions are my own.
This rom-com was such a fun ride! Allie is a food critic with big dreams of becoming an investigative journalist. While out on assignment, she stumbles onto something... unusual, a matchmaking service run by a former Navy SEAL. Naturally, she signs up, hoping it might lead to a killer story and maybe even her soulmate. What she doesn’t expect? That the real spark might be with the matchmaker himself.
Thatcher is the kind of romance hero that feels both over-the-top and endearing. He’s ex-military, uses tactical strategies to pair people up, and is raising his son while trying to leave his old life behind, sort of. His chemistry with Allie jumps off the page, and I loved watching their relationship unfold, even when things got a little chaotic.
Yes, you’ll have to suspend disbelief here and there (some of the situations they find themselves in are straight-up bonkers), but it just adds to the charm. It’s rom-com with a dash of romantic suspense and a whole lot of heart.
Also, can we talk about the epilogue? Maple the rescue dog broke me. That scene with Biscuit was so unexpectedly emotional and sweet. Honestly, that chapter alone is worth the read.
If you love quirky, slightly outrageous love stories with heart, humor, and a few action-movie moments thrown in, this one’s for you.
June 7, 2025
Meet Cute or Your Money Back was such a cute romcom. I loved the reverse twist of Thatcher, a former Navy SEAL, being the one running a matchmaking service who falls for the client. He and Allie were such a perfect match.
After his wife died, leaving him as a single parent with an infant son to raise, Thatcher founded his matchmaking service. He and his partners use their military training to run their clients' dates like they are running secret ops missions. I loved it! Allie enters his life like a hurricane, and for the first time in years, Thatcher doesn't quite know what to do with big feelings for a woman that he never expected to feel again as a widower.
Allie, meanwhile, is a newspaper food critic with dreams of being an investigative reporter. She gets her shot at writing an investigative piece on the matchmaking service, trying to write about her dating experiences without breaking her NDA. It's soon evident that Allie and Thatcher have far better chemistry than any of the guys she's set up with. And as the attraction between them grows, Allie stumbles upon something in her digging that ends up putting both of their lives in danger.
This book had it all. It was funny, heartfelt, a sizzling slow burn, adorable rescue dogs, a cute kid, a sexy, grumpy military vet, and a clumsy, spirited heroine. I really enjoyed this story and hope that there's more to come for Thatcher's buddies!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
After his wife died, leaving him as a single parent with an infant son to raise, Thatcher founded his matchmaking service. He and his partners use their military training to run their clients' dates like they are running secret ops missions. I loved it! Allie enters his life like a hurricane, and for the first time in years, Thatcher doesn't quite know what to do with big feelings for a woman that he never expected to feel again as a widower.
Allie, meanwhile, is a newspaper food critic with dreams of being an investigative reporter. She gets her shot at writing an investigative piece on the matchmaking service, trying to write about her dating experiences without breaking her NDA. It's soon evident that Allie and Thatcher have far better chemistry than any of the guys she's set up with. And as the attraction between them grows, Allie stumbles upon something in her digging that ends up putting both of their lives in danger.
This book had it all. It was funny, heartfelt, a sizzling slow burn, adorable rescue dogs, a cute kid, a sexy, grumpy military vet, and a clumsy, spirited heroine. I really enjoyed this story and hope that there's more to come for Thatcher's buddies!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
June 10, 2025
4.5stars!!
Okay… this book? I LOVED the whole package—the story, the writing, the characters, the chemistry… all of it!! 💛
The title and cover seriously don’t do it justice—I went in expecting a cute Hallmark-y romcom with some swoony moments and solid banter. What I got was so much more than that.
Thatcher Bryant, an ex–special forces turned matchmaker (yes, you read that right 😏), meets Allie Larsen, a charming sunshine journalist. They didn’t exactly get their meet cute… but the journey these two went on? It was even better than any picture-perfect beginning.
What surprised me the most was how layered this story was. I thought the extra plot details were just “decorative strawberries on top” 🍓—until they weren’t. Things got intense, and I was so impressed by how seriously the twists were handled. It gave the story such emotional weight and depth.
The humor, the banter, the push and pull between Thatcher and Allie? Chef’s kiss. Even though Thatcher didn’t do a lot of big swoony gestures, their chemistry still felt undeniable. I wouldn’t have minded a little more emotional development between them—but honestly, everything still worked so well.
This was such a fun, unexpected, and seriously enjoyable read.
Thank you so much to Literally PR for the eARC—this is my honest review!
Okay… this book? I LOVED the whole package—the story, the writing, the characters, the chemistry… all of it!! 💛
The title and cover seriously don’t do it justice—I went in expecting a cute Hallmark-y romcom with some swoony moments and solid banter. What I got was so much more than that.
Thatcher Bryant, an ex–special forces turned matchmaker (yes, you read that right 😏), meets Allie Larsen, a charming sunshine journalist. They didn’t exactly get their meet cute… but the journey these two went on? It was even better than any picture-perfect beginning.
What surprised me the most was how layered this story was. I thought the extra plot details were just “decorative strawberries on top” 🍓—until they weren’t. Things got intense, and I was so impressed by how seriously the twists were handled. It gave the story such emotional weight and depth.
The humor, the banter, the push and pull between Thatcher and Allie? Chef’s kiss. Even though Thatcher didn’t do a lot of big swoony gestures, their chemistry still felt undeniable. I wouldn’t have minded a little more emotional development between them—but honestly, everything still worked so well.
This was such a fun, unexpected, and seriously enjoyable read.
Thank you so much to Literally PR for the eARC—this is my honest review!
June 2, 2025
Thatcher is ex-military and now a professional matchmaker, using his military skills to match his clients with The One. When Allie crashes into his life he’s reluctant to take her on as a client but is soon persuaded. He sets out trying to find her match while trying to stop himself falling for her. What Thatcher doesn’t know is that Allie is an investigative reporter and when she starts digging where she shouldn’t both of their lives are in danger. Can they survive the threat against them and get their happily ever after or is one of their hearts in danger of breaking?
I really liked this! This was such a cute story with a touch of danger thrown in. An easy read that kept moving, didn’t get boring or monotonous and was actually kinda funny in places. I don’t feel so bad about my clumsiness after Allie’s mishap in the restaurant 🤣🙈 I’m excited there’s more to come from this world because I need to know more about Griffin and Hunter!!
This is an ARC review and all opinions are my own. Thank you to Literally Yours PR for the ARC copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review it
I really liked this! This was such a cute story with a touch of danger thrown in. An easy read that kept moving, didn’t get boring or monotonous and was actually kinda funny in places. I don’t feel so bad about my clumsiness after Allie’s mishap in the restaurant 🤣🙈 I’m excited there’s more to come from this world because I need to know more about Griffin and Hunter!!
This is an ARC review and all opinions are my own. Thank you to Literally Yours PR for the ARC copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review it
June 2, 2025
How a charming, lighthearted romance fraught with danger and suspense is something that works, I don’t understand. But works it does once Allie Larsen and Thatcher Bryant get together.
She's a food critic for the local Charleston, SC, newspaper who dreams of becoming an investigative journalist. When she sees a man in a restaurant using an earpiece to coach a woman on a date, Allie is intrigued and thinks she's found her first investigative piece.
Thatcher Bryant is clearly more than a matchmaker. His demeanor screams ex-military, as does his two colleagues in the matchmaking business. With a one-hundred percent success rate, Thatcher agrees to take on Allie as a client, and that's when the real fun begins.
From hilarious first dates to an adorable little boy, to drama and excitement, to a heroic pup, this one has all of the best elements perfectly placed for an epic emotional ride. Fun, funny, and sweet, yet a little bit scary and adrenaline-fueled, Thatcher and Allie's story captivated me completely. Some of the most fun I’ve ever had in a reading escape, you'll love every second you spend with Thatcher and Allie.
She's a food critic for the local Charleston, SC, newspaper who dreams of becoming an investigative journalist. When she sees a man in a restaurant using an earpiece to coach a woman on a date, Allie is intrigued and thinks she's found her first investigative piece.
Thatcher Bryant is clearly more than a matchmaker. His demeanor screams ex-military, as does his two colleagues in the matchmaking business. With a one-hundred percent success rate, Thatcher agrees to take on Allie as a client, and that's when the real fun begins.
From hilarious first dates to an adorable little boy, to drama and excitement, to a heroic pup, this one has all of the best elements perfectly placed for an epic emotional ride. Fun, funny, and sweet, yet a little bit scary and adrenaline-fueled, Thatcher and Allie's story captivated me completely. Some of the most fun I’ve ever had in a reading escape, you'll love every second you spend with Thatcher and Allie.
September 4, 2025
If Hitch and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days had a baby, and that baby grew up to moonlight as a Navy SEAL tangled in a mafia mess, you’d have Meet Cute or Your Money Back.
Katana Collins delivers a romcom that’s equal parts charming, clever, and high stakes. The setup is irresistible: a company that guarantees you’ll meet your match or get your money back. What starts out as a breezy, banter-filled romance quickly escalates when the hero’s past comes crashing into the present, complete with danger, loyalty tests, and more than a few secrets.
The chemistry is sparkling and the banter feels right out of a comfort-watch romcom, yet Collins layers in action and suspense that keep the pages flying. I especially loved how the heroine’s determination to protect her heart balances against the hero’s messy, larger-than-life complications. The tonal shifts from laugh-out-loud antics to mafia intrigue occasionally felt abrupt, which is why I’m landing at four stars instead of five. But the ride is undeniably entertaining, and the blend of tropes is fresh in a crowded market.
Katana Collins delivers a romcom that’s equal parts charming, clever, and high stakes. The setup is irresistible: a company that guarantees you’ll meet your match or get your money back. What starts out as a breezy, banter-filled romance quickly escalates when the hero’s past comes crashing into the present, complete with danger, loyalty tests, and more than a few secrets.
The chemistry is sparkling and the banter feels right out of a comfort-watch romcom, yet Collins layers in action and suspense that keep the pages flying. I especially loved how the heroine’s determination to protect her heart balances against the hero’s messy, larger-than-life complications. The tonal shifts from laugh-out-loud antics to mafia intrigue occasionally felt abrupt, which is why I’m landing at four stars instead of five. But the ride is undeniably entertaining, and the blend of tropes is fresh in a crowded market.
May 28, 2025
This book was so good. I originally thought it was just going to be a cute rom-com. It ended up having action, grumpy/sunshine vibes, and a little spice, with a found family to boot. I absolutely adore Allie's character. She's a little spitfire and is determined to accomplish her dreams. A girl after my own heart. Then there's ex-special forces Thatcher. He's just trying to get by after the loss of his wife and raising his son on his own. He wasn't prepared for the tornado that is Allie Larsen to come blowing in. Last, you can't forget about little Duke and his adorable antics or the real hero of the story, Biscuit. I can't wait to read the next book and see what trouble Griffin can get himself into. Not to mention, check in with the Bryant family and see how Maple Pancake is fitting in. I highly recommend this book. It was probably a 1 on the spice scale, but I would give it 10 stars if I could for the story!
June 5, 2025
This is Allie and Thatcher’s story.
Thatcher is an ex-Navy Seal, who after tragedy strikes his family, and to care for his son, he opens a matchmaking business, where he and a couple of his ex-special force’s buddies use military skills to help their clients find “The One.” Allie is a food critic who aspires to become an investigative journalist, and when she sees something of interest in a newspaper, she is determined this is her big break. Thatcher soon finds out that Allie is impossible to please, but will the matchmaker become the perfect match?
This is a well written story which has family, friendships, emotions, grumpy / sunshine, opposites attract, secrets, drama, danger, suspense intrigue, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, soulmates, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and light-hearted, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Thatcher is an ex-Navy Seal, who after tragedy strikes his family, and to care for his son, he opens a matchmaking business, where he and a couple of his ex-special force’s buddies use military skills to help their clients find “The One.” Allie is a food critic who aspires to become an investigative journalist, and when she sees something of interest in a newspaper, she is determined this is her big break. Thatcher soon finds out that Allie is impossible to please, but will the matchmaker become the perfect match?
This is a well written story which has family, friendships, emotions, grumpy / sunshine, opposites attract, secrets, drama, danger, suspense intrigue, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, soulmates, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and light-hearted, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 8, 2025
Thatcher is the most unlikely matchmaker you would expect to find based on his previous career as a Navy SEAL, but he will do anything to honor the wife he loved and lost including this. He now finds himself with a new client and conflicted as however unexpected the matchmaker might have just met his perfect match.
Allie may have come across Thatcher by chance, but she is intrigued by the man and his business. If that isn’t enough to draw her in then there is also the opportunity that she could write a compelling story and finally start crafting the articles she wants to create and not the articles she is being forced to write.
This story manages to incorporate so many different aspects from the humorous banter to the intrigue part of the story and a romance between two people who weren’t looking for love.
Allie may have come across Thatcher by chance, but she is intrigued by the man and his business. If that isn’t enough to draw her in then there is also the opportunity that she could write a compelling story and finally start crafting the articles she wants to create and not the articles she is being forced to write.
This story manages to incorporate so many different aspects from the humorous banter to the intrigue part of the story and a romance between two people who weren’t looking for love.
June 9, 2025
Thatcher is definitely not the usual matchmaker and he meets his match in Allie to his greatest (mis)fortune. As Allie works toward her dream job of being an investigative journalist, she ends up signing up with Thatcher as part of her investigation.
While Allie is smart and kind, she is also “trouble” as she always ends up in chaotic situations unknowingly. Despite that, Thatcher is unable to resist being attracted to her. And oh boy, I never knew self-defense training could be so hot!
Though most of the book is light-hearted and revolves around Thatcher’s attempt at setting up Allie with someone, there are some serious moments too where he plots his revenge. Those scenes were nicely weaved into the plot and did not made the mood too heavy. Duke and Biscuit were also amazing additions to the plot!
While Allie is smart and kind, she is also “trouble” as she always ends up in chaotic situations unknowingly. Despite that, Thatcher is unable to resist being attracted to her. And oh boy, I never knew self-defense training could be so hot!
Though most of the book is light-hearted and revolves around Thatcher’s attempt at setting up Allie with someone, there are some serious moments too where he plots his revenge. Those scenes were nicely weaved into the plot and did not made the mood too heavy. Duke and Biscuit were also amazing additions to the plot!
May 28, 2025
4.25⭐️
Thatcher and Allie are so cute. Allie is sooooo chaotic but Thatcher seems to perfectly balance her personality with his more regimented one. I love their banter and interactions whether is face to face or via ear piece..it’s just so funny and honestly relatable. But Allie does take it too far IMO. I wish she would have dropped what she was doing or told him what she was trying to do when they hooked up especially since he was pretty freaking honest with her. The way that the conflict and resolution played out was a little different than what I thought would happen but I was definitely surprised and happy about it. Overall such a cute story and I can’t wait to see how the rest of the series goes!
Thank you Literally Yours PR and Katana Collins for the eARC.
Thatcher and Allie are so cute. Allie is sooooo chaotic but Thatcher seems to perfectly balance her personality with his more regimented one. I love their banter and interactions whether is face to face or via ear piece..it’s just so funny and honestly relatable. But Allie does take it too far IMO. I wish she would have dropped what she was doing or told him what she was trying to do when they hooked up especially since he was pretty freaking honest with her. The way that the conflict and resolution played out was a little different than what I thought would happen but I was definitely surprised and happy about it. Overall such a cute story and I can’t wait to see how the rest of the series goes!
Thank you Literally Yours PR and Katana Collins for the eARC.
June 3, 2025
This book is a rom-com blended with a rom suspense. It was like she didn’t know which direction to go and ended up just blending them.
This took me so long to get into for some reason. I just chiseled away at it until today when it finally just clicked with me and I couldn’t stop until I finished it.
Their meeting was unique and their chemistry was amazing but it took FOREVER for them to admit it enough to act on it.
Once they did then the book picked up. The epilogue was the cutest.
Also this book was very VERY mild on the chili pepper scale. Some sweet kisses, some fiery kisses and one open door scene. That did not detract from the story though. The story was more about the plot surrounding the Russian guy than Allie and Thatcher falling.
I’m leaving this with 3.75 stars
This took me so long to get into for some reason. I just chiseled away at it until today when it finally just clicked with me and I couldn’t stop until I finished it.
Their meeting was unique and their chemistry was amazing but it took FOREVER for them to admit it enough to act on it.
Once they did then the book picked up. The epilogue was the cutest.
Also this book was very VERY mild on the chili pepper scale. Some sweet kisses, some fiery kisses and one open door scene. That did not detract from the story though. The story was more about the plot surrounding the Russian guy than Allie and Thatcher falling.
I’m leaving this with 3.75 stars
June 8, 2025
4.5 stars
This book is pure chaotic rom-com gold with a side of suspense and a whole lot of heart.
Allie’s a food critic dying to break into investigative journalism. Thatcher is a grumpy ex-Navy SEAL turned matchmaker with a secret side mission and a seriously swoony kid. She hires him for a story, but instead of finding her soulmate, she stumbles into dangerous territory and a growing crush on the one man she wasn’t supposed to fall for.
Their banter is sharp, the chemistry is fire, and the situations they end up in range from hilarious to downright ridiculous in the best way. Throw in a heroic rescue pup and an epilogue that melted me, and this one turned out to be way more than I expected.
It’s flirty, fun, and just unhinged enough to keep you flipping pages.
This book is pure chaotic rom-com gold with a side of suspense and a whole lot of heart.
Allie’s a food critic dying to break into investigative journalism. Thatcher is a grumpy ex-Navy SEAL turned matchmaker with a secret side mission and a seriously swoony kid. She hires him for a story, but instead of finding her soulmate, she stumbles into dangerous territory and a growing crush on the one man she wasn’t supposed to fall for.
Their banter is sharp, the chemistry is fire, and the situations they end up in range from hilarious to downright ridiculous in the best way. Throw in a heroic rescue pup and an epilogue that melted me, and this one turned out to be way more than I expected.
It’s flirty, fun, and just unhinged enough to keep you flipping pages.
May 30, 2025
I really enjoyed this story 🙂. It was so good! Allie and Thatcher together are so funny. They have such great chemistry and I loved their banter. They definitely gave me grumpy/sunshine vibes…or I guess it would be grumpy/sassy vibes. I liked the tension between them and how it grew. Allie is witty and does not hold back!! Thatcher was a complete grump…who underneath is a total golden retriever. He ended up being such a delightful surprise for me!
This story is dual POV, well written, and funny, contemporary, office romantic comedy. I enjoyed the banter between the characters. I found the monologuing by both characters amusing.
This story is dual POV, well written, and funny, contemporary, office romantic comedy. I enjoyed the banter between the characters. I found the monologuing by both characters amusing.
June 8, 2025
When I started this book I assumed it was going to be this cute Rom-Com. Although it was a cute romcom it had some dark elements to it. Twists and turns along the way.
All Allie wants is to become is an Investigated Journalist she gets her chance when she sees a couple on a date and the woman has an ear piece in her ear. She notices a man with an ear piece and speaking like he is talking to himself. That's just the tip of the iceberg. In this exciting and action packed story there is love, loss, and danger. I look forward to reading Griffin's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
All Allie wants is to become is an Investigated Journalist she gets her chance when she sees a couple on a date and the woman has an ear piece in her ear. She notices a man with an ear piece and speaking like he is talking to himself. That's just the tip of the iceberg. In this exciting and action packed story there is love, loss, and danger. I look forward to reading Griffin's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2025
Meet Cute or Your Money Back was a fun romcom when a former Navy SEAL meets an investigative journalist. The Navy SEAL, Thatcher, has retired and decides with his friend to make a matchmaking site. Allie hires Thatcher to find her soul mate.
After getting to know one another the chemistry starts to heat up between the two, but can Allie get her piece done without doing anything to risk the matchmaking service?!
I loved the twist that the military men help find perfect matches for the women on the site. Usually the big, burly military guys aren’t what one would think would be the matchmaker.
After getting to know one another the chemistry starts to heat up between the two, but can Allie get her piece done without doing anything to risk the matchmaking service?!
I loved the twist that the military men help find perfect matches for the women on the site. Usually the big, burly military guys aren’t what one would think would be the matchmaker.
June 2, 2025
"Even before I could admit that I wanted this...I knew you were it for me."
❤️Grumpy x sunshine
❤️Who did this to you?
❤️Single Dad
❤️Slow burn
❤️Dual POV
Loved this short and sweet read. I thought this book was just going to be a standard rom-com, but it had me kicking my feet and giggling up until the end where it had me wiping tears! Has great tension, banter, and plot. I do wish the story went on a little more, but I'm still satisfied with where the story ended.
Spice 🌶️
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you for letting me read this ARC! ❤️
❤️Grumpy x sunshine
❤️Who did this to you?
❤️Single Dad
❤️Slow burn
❤️Dual POV
Loved this short and sweet read. I thought this book was just going to be a standard rom-com, but it had me kicking my feet and giggling up until the end where it had me wiping tears! Has great tension, banter, and plot. I do wish the story went on a little more, but I'm still satisfied with where the story ended.
Spice 🌶️
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you for letting me read this ARC! ❤️
June 8, 2025
Allie and Thatcher have great banter. He is grumpy, she is sunshine. She is very chaotic, but his regimented personality helps balance her out. I enjoy books that bring a little of everything to the table and this book did that. There was banter, sass, mystery, laughter and love. The graphic nature of one part of the book is more than I was expecting, but didn’t make me like the book less. I can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review
June 11, 2025
Thatcher and Allie definitely have a once in a lifetime meet cute. Allie is a good reviewer for the Sun Times and wants to be an investigative reporter which has always been her dream. Thatcher is a single dad, ex military, and now runs a Matchmaking company with his 2 best friends.
Allie runs into or catches Thatcher while he is playing matchmaker in a cafe. When he leaves she follows him to see what is really going on. Follows him to an alley and he pulls a gun to her back. She ends up hiring him to play matchmaker, but what she really wants is to unveil what is going on with him.
The banter is great between the two and the chemistry is fire. I also love Biscuit (Allie’s dog) and his role. Such a cute book and read.
Allie runs into or catches Thatcher while he is playing matchmaker in a cafe. When he leaves she follows him to see what is really going on. Follows him to an alley and he pulls a gun to her back. She ends up hiring him to play matchmaker, but what she really wants is to unveil what is going on with him.
The banter is great between the two and the chemistry is fire. I also love Biscuit (Allie’s dog) and his role. Such a cute book and read.
May 31, 2025
✨ Review ✨
***
Meet Cute or Your Money Back was so good. I loved this story so much. It was funny, sweet, and unexpected. Allie was amazing. I loved her personality, her quirks , and her clumsiness. Thatcher was perfect for her. They were complete opposites but it worked perfectly. I enjoyed all the action and twists and turns. The ending was the sweetest and I can tell this book will live rent free in my mind forever.
***
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🔥🔥
Romance: 🩷🩷🩷🩷
***
***
Meet Cute or Your Money Back was so good. I loved this story so much. It was funny, sweet, and unexpected. Allie was amazing. I loved her personality, her quirks , and her clumsiness. Thatcher was perfect for her. They were complete opposites but it worked perfectly. I enjoyed all the action and twists and turns. The ending was the sweetest and I can tell this book will live rent free in my mind forever.
***
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🔥🔥
Romance: 🩷🩷🩷🩷
***
September 17, 2025
You know how people get poetic when describing a scene with a sunset or feelings or in openings and endings??
In this book there's a useless poetic comment in every sentence.
They kill suspense, they don't add depth and they just make the plot drag.
When you're in the middle of an action/ shooting scene and you stop to describe someone's eyes resembling calm blue waters in a secluded beach, you just destroyed your build-up
In this book there's a useless poetic comment in every sentence.
They kill suspense, they don't add depth and they just make the plot drag.
When you're in the middle of an action/ shooting scene and you stop to describe someone's eyes resembling calm blue waters in a secluded beach, you just destroyed your build-up
June 1, 2025
I really enjoyed Allie and Thatcher's story. Grumpy Thatcher and sunshine Allie are so damn entertaining. Allie is tenacious and will.fight for what she believes is the truth. Thatcher hides behind live threatening secrets. When the two collide, sparks take flight. This story has a little bit of everything to make a reader happy: sass, drama, intrigue, laughter and love. Super enjoyable.
June 4, 2025
I really enjoyed Allie and Thatcher's story. Grumpy Thatcher and sunshine Allie are so damn entertaining. Allie is tenacious and will.fight for what she believes is the truth. Thatcher hides behind live threatening secrets. When the two collide, sparks take flight. This story has a little bit of everything to make a reader happy: sass, drama, intrigue, laughter and love. Super enjoyable.
June 7, 2025
This is a fun read that will have you laughing, swooning and falling in love with these characters.
Allie and Thatcher are so funny…their banter, chemistry, outrageous adventures and overall interactions are fabulous!
Katana always has pets in her stories and I just love that! Some special animals make appearances and will warm your heart.
Allie and Thatcher are so funny…their banter, chemistry, outrageous adventures and overall interactions are fabulous!
Katana always has pets in her stories and I just love that! Some special animals make appearances and will warm your heart.
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