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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
About the author
Katana Collins
87 books683 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 55 reviews
May 30, 2026
At first, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy this story because of some of the tropes involved. However, I ended up absolutely loving it! What I appreciated most was that it wasn't just a romance, there was a real conflict and a compelling storyline outside of the love story itself.
Allie's dating attempts had me laughing more than once, and when the plot reached its climax, I was completely stressed out in the best way possible. I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know what was going to happen next. There was so much action that I was instantly hooked!
I was also worried that Allie's dog would feel more like a burden throughout the story since he seemed to play such a significant role. Thankfully, that wasn't the case at all. I really liked how the author incorporated him into the story. He played an important part while still simply being a dog, just like any other normal dog would be. By the end, I had grown quite attached to him myself!
Overall, this book was nothing like I expected it to be, and it pleasantly surprised me. This was my first book by Katana Collins, but it definitely won't be my last. I'll certainly be reading more of her books in the future!
Allie's dating attempts had me laughing more than once, and when the plot reached its climax, I was completely stressed out in the best way possible. I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know what was going to happen next. There was so much action that I was instantly hooked!
I was also worried that Allie's dog would feel more like a burden throughout the story since he seemed to play such a significant role. Thankfully, that wasn't the case at all. I really liked how the author incorporated him into the story. He played an important part while still simply being a dog, just like any other normal dog would be. By the end, I had grown quite attached to him myself!
Overall, this book was nothing like I expected it to be, and it pleasantly surprised me. This was my first book by Katana Collins, but it definitely won't be my last. I'll certainly be reading more of her books in the future!
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.
February 5, 2026
If you like the movies "Hitch" and "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days", you will like this book!! It's the perfect mix of both!
I would honestly say I would classify this book more as romantic suspense than your typical rom-com, but that only made the plot more intriguing!
Duke was a perfect side character and I absolutely adored Biscuit the dog. Maple Pancake also has my heart, even though we only met her for one chapter!
I read this book in preparation of meeting Katana on the Love Lit Cruise and I can't wait to chat about it with her. I also will definitely be reading Griffin's story whenever it comes out!!
I would honestly say I would classify this book more as romantic suspense than your typical rom-com, but that only made the plot more intriguing!
Duke was a perfect side character and I absolutely adored Biscuit the dog. Maple Pancake also has my heart, even though we only met her for one chapter!
I read this book in preparation of meeting Katana on the Love Lit Cruise and I can't wait to chat about it with her. I also will definitely be reading Griffin's story whenever it comes out!!
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!
May 26, 2026
3.75⭐️
🌶️🌶️ 2/5 — Light spice
• Some on-page intimacy
• Limited detail
• More romance than heat
Steamy and Spice chapters down below.
Peep the trigger/content warnings prior to reading.
📝 Notes:
Dual POV: Allie and Thatcher
Romcom
Single father
Forced Proximity
Matchmaker
Light suspense
Slow burn
I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC, and I’m grateful to be part of the experience. Here’s my honest review.
This was a cute, lighthearted rom-com and a really enjoyable read overall.
It gave me strong early-2000s rom-com vibes—like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Hitch, with a little bit of The Ugly Truth mixed in—which made it especially fun. It has that cozy, feel-good rom-com energy with funny moments, jealousy, and just enough light suspense woven into the military storyline to keep things interesting.
There’s definitely instant attraction between the characters, but because he’s trying to set her up on other dates, it ends up reading more like a slow burn, which I really liked. That dynamic made the chemistry more fun, especially with the jealousy and tension layered in.
I also liked that there was some emotional depth, particularly around the MMC and his grief. Even though the story stays mostly light and playful, those moments gave it some heart. It doesn’t go super deep emotionally, but it adds enough to balance out the humor and romance.
The pacing is fast, which made it a quick and easy read. There were a few moments that felt a little corny to me—though for this type of rom-com, it kind of worked with the overall vibe and didn’t take me out of the story too much.
There’s also a twist near the end that I genuinely wasn’t expecting. It felt a little random or awkward at first, but not necessarily in a bad way—more like it caught me off guard and made me pause for a second.
Spice-wise, there’s only one open-door spicy scene, so the romance feels more focused on the build-up, banter, and chemistry than the spice itself.
Overall, this was a fun, cozy, fast-paced rom-com with humor, chemistry, jealousy, a little emotional depth, and a surprise twist at the end. I had a really good time reading it—and I’m definitely interested in continuing with the next book in the series.
🌶️Spice Chapters:
16 first kiss
19
20🔥
🌶️🌶️ 2/5 — Light spice
• Some on-page intimacy
• Limited detail
• More romance than heat
Steamy and Spice chapters down below.
Peep the trigger/content warnings prior to reading.
📝 Notes:
Dual POV: Allie and Thatcher
Romcom
Single father
Forced Proximity
Matchmaker
Light suspense
Slow burn
I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC, and I’m grateful to be part of the experience. Here’s my honest review.
This was a cute, lighthearted rom-com and a really enjoyable read overall.
It gave me strong early-2000s rom-com vibes—like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Hitch, with a little bit of The Ugly Truth mixed in—which made it especially fun. It has that cozy, feel-good rom-com energy with funny moments, jealousy, and just enough light suspense woven into the military storyline to keep things interesting.
There’s definitely instant attraction between the characters, but because he’s trying to set her up on other dates, it ends up reading more like a slow burn, which I really liked. That dynamic made the chemistry more fun, especially with the jealousy and tension layered in.
I also liked that there was some emotional depth, particularly around the MMC and his grief. Even though the story stays mostly light and playful, those moments gave it some heart. It doesn’t go super deep emotionally, but it adds enough to balance out the humor and romance.
The pacing is fast, which made it a quick and easy read. There were a few moments that felt a little corny to me—though for this type of rom-com, it kind of worked with the overall vibe and didn’t take me out of the story too much.
There’s also a twist near the end that I genuinely wasn’t expecting. It felt a little random or awkward at first, but not necessarily in a bad way—more like it caught me off guard and made me pause for a second.
Spice-wise, there’s only one open-door spicy scene, so the romance feels more focused on the build-up, banter, and chemistry than the spice itself.
Overall, this was a fun, cozy, fast-paced rom-com with humor, chemistry, jealousy, a little emotional depth, and a surprise twist at the end. I had a really good time reading it—and I’m definitely interested in continuing with the next book in the series.
🌶️Spice Chapters:
16 first kiss
19
20🔥
May 27, 2026
reading a book about an ex military single dad who runs a matchmaking business and a sunshiny passionate and awfully clumsy reporter was not on my to do list but was everything I didn’t know I needed. This was the grumpy x sunshine at max satisfaction level because she’s so bubbly and the complete opposite of him yet they fit together so well. And this book is real on the meet cutes, there truly is no better way to meet your future husband than to see him in a cafe, follow him a couple streets only to be caught and held at gunpoint by said future husband. This book is nothing other than absolutely iconic, and is one of the best romcoms I’ve read in a while. She pays for his matchmaking service and he’s setting her up on dates and giving her advice all while he broods from a corner and glares at all the “prospects”. And the thing that has me melting was the amount of times he was like “I don’t know why she doesn’t have a boyfriend because she’s so perfect”, this man loves her clumsiness, her straightforwardness and everything about her that may put another guy off. That is true devotion right there and if I didn’t in true love, I would have at that very moment. He’s also a single dad which makes even more swoon worthy but the ways he’s so protective has me falling hard. Addie was the sweetest character and I loved her probably because she reminded me a little too much of myself. I love how she accepted his trauma and was willing to wait because she was the sweetest person (that I differ from her quite a lot). This book is a slightly slower burn but that fuck it moment makes it totally worth it, and I loved the tension and flirty banter leading up to it. The plot didn’t have anything super surprising but was just fun, lighthearted (80% of the time) and full of chemistry. I give this a 5/5
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
May 30, 2026
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚘𝚠𝚗:
Allie is looking to ditch her job as a food critic & finally land her dream job as an investigative journalist. When she witnesses a woman being coached from afar on her date, she decides to confront the matchmaker only to end up with a gun in her face.
𝙼𝚢 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎:
This book was such a fun surprise!
I loved the mix of rom-com vibes with suspense & action. Thatcher being a former Navy SEAL turned matchmaker was such a unique setup, & watching the grumpy, protective single dad fall for sunshine Allie was everything.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲𝗱:
❤️The matchmaking dates. Thatcher helps Allie on dates & it gives us so many adorable moments. Allie is awkward but adorable & Thatcher is grumpy & protective which makes the slow burn burn so good!
❤️The suspense & action. The build is slow but when it all unravels I was gripping my kindle!
❤️Biscuit. We love a good animal sidekick, especially when it’s a rescue pup!
❤️Duke. I’m super picky about the writing of kids in books, but I absolutely LOVED how little Duke was written! Age appropriate & adorable.
❤️The epilogue. Cue all the tears. Seriously.
Overall this is a super cute book. It’s light enough & fun but also has added suspense & danger to keep you on your toes. I hope that Thatcher’s teammates each get their own book because I want more!
𝙵𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜:
💕“𝙇𝙚𝙩’𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙨.”
“𝘼 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙧𝙪𝙣𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙚.”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗲𝘁:
🐶Rom-com with suspense
🐶Grumpy x sunshine
🐶Ex military hero
🐶Single dad
🐶Dating advice / coaching
🐶Slow burn
🐶Rescue dog moments
🐶Witty banter
Thank you to Hambright PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Allie is looking to ditch her job as a food critic & finally land her dream job as an investigative journalist. When she witnesses a woman being coached from afar on her date, she decides to confront the matchmaker only to end up with a gun in her face.
𝙼𝚢 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎:
This book was such a fun surprise!
I loved the mix of rom-com vibes with suspense & action. Thatcher being a former Navy SEAL turned matchmaker was such a unique setup, & watching the grumpy, protective single dad fall for sunshine Allie was everything.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲𝗱:
❤️The matchmaking dates. Thatcher helps Allie on dates & it gives us so many adorable moments. Allie is awkward but adorable & Thatcher is grumpy & protective which makes the slow burn burn so good!
❤️The suspense & action. The build is slow but when it all unravels I was gripping my kindle!
❤️Biscuit. We love a good animal sidekick, especially when it’s a rescue pup!
❤️Duke. I’m super picky about the writing of kids in books, but I absolutely LOVED how little Duke was written! Age appropriate & adorable.
❤️The epilogue. Cue all the tears. Seriously.
Overall this is a super cute book. It’s light enough & fun but also has added suspense & danger to keep you on your toes. I hope that Thatcher’s teammates each get their own book because I want more!
𝙵𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜:
💕“𝙇𝙚𝙩’𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙨.”
“𝘼 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙧𝙪𝙣𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙚.”
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗲𝘁:
🐶Rom-com with suspense
🐶Grumpy x sunshine
🐶Ex military hero
🐶Single dad
🐶Dating advice / coaching
🐶Slow burn
🐶Rescue dog moments
🐶Witty banter
Thank you to Hambright PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
May 25, 2026
This book was such a fun surprise – I could not put it down! I love the concept of former Navy Seals creating a match making business after retiring from the military. Thatcher Bryant is the leader along with his business partners Griffin and Hunter.
Allie Larsen is a newspaper food critic who longs to be an investigative reporter. She’s at her favorite coffee shop when she observes Thatcher coaching a women on a first date through a hidden earpiece. She immediately is intrigued and thinks this could be a good story to pitch her editor. She follows Thatcher and gets more than she bargained for – he doesn’t trust people and doesn’t like being confronted. Allie ends up pretending to need his matchmaking services and hopes to be able to write a story to propel her career forward. Of course, Thatcher doesn’t know that part.
The story has humorous moments created by Allie on her dates and moments with her dog Biscuit. There are sweet moments of Thatcher being a great dad to his young son Duke. As time goes by, Allie and Thatcher can’t deny their explosive chemistry – they are so HOT together. What makes the story such a page turner is the danger that Allie inadvertently brings into Thatcher’s life as her investigation inquiries unleash dangerous criminals from Thatcher’s past. There are several chapters in this book where I literally stopped breathing due to the suspense!
Thank goodness there is a happy ending to the story, and I always love having humor and suspense along the way. I look forward to reading the next book in the series about Griffin and hopefully Hunter gets his own story too.
Allie Larsen is a newspaper food critic who longs to be an investigative reporter. She’s at her favorite coffee shop when she observes Thatcher coaching a women on a first date through a hidden earpiece. She immediately is intrigued and thinks this could be a good story to pitch her editor. She follows Thatcher and gets more than she bargained for – he doesn’t trust people and doesn’t like being confronted. Allie ends up pretending to need his matchmaking services and hopes to be able to write a story to propel her career forward. Of course, Thatcher doesn’t know that part.
The story has humorous moments created by Allie on her dates and moments with her dog Biscuit. There are sweet moments of Thatcher being a great dad to his young son Duke. As time goes by, Allie and Thatcher can’t deny their explosive chemistry – they are so HOT together. What makes the story such a page turner is the danger that Allie inadvertently brings into Thatcher’s life as her investigation inquiries unleash dangerous criminals from Thatcher’s past. There are several chapters in this book where I literally stopped breathing due to the suspense!
Thank goodness there is a happy ending to the story, and I always love having humor and suspense along the way. I look forward to reading the next book in the series about Griffin and hopefully Hunter gets his own story too.
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.
May 25, 2026
This was probably one of the most unique and bizarre premises I’ve ever read and honestly, I was 100% sat for this!
Thatcher is an ex-special forces soldier and single dad to five-year-old Duke, and now runs a matchmaking business with two of his former teammates where they orchestrate elaborate, adorable meet-cutes for ordinary people using surveillance skills, tactical planning and military precision. Which is either wildly romantic or deeply concerning depending on how long you think about it.
Naturally, Thatcher ends up having his own unexpected meet cute with investigative journalist Allie, who hires him to help her find her soulmate while very much hiding her own agenda. Absolute disaster pairing. The chemistry was immediate and the chaos even faster. 😂😬
The banter in this book was so sharp and effortless, and underneath all the humour was a genuinely beautiful love story built on stubbornness, frustration, vulnerability and slowly letting someone in. Thatcher and Allie constantly exasperate each other but in that delicious way where you know they’re completely doomed for each other from the start.
I also loved how layered the story felt. One minute it’s quirky and hilarious, the next it turns serious and dangerous, and somehow it still circles back into something warm, heartfelt and joyful without feeling messy or overdone.
Such a fun, clever and genuinely heartfelt romance.
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Dad
🪖 Military
🩷 Romcom
😳 Light Suspense
🤝 Matchmaker
🌓 Grumpy x Sunshine
Thatcher is an ex-special forces soldier and single dad to five-year-old Duke, and now runs a matchmaking business with two of his former teammates where they orchestrate elaborate, adorable meet-cutes for ordinary people using surveillance skills, tactical planning and military precision. Which is either wildly romantic or deeply concerning depending on how long you think about it.
Naturally, Thatcher ends up having his own unexpected meet cute with investigative journalist Allie, who hires him to help her find her soulmate while very much hiding her own agenda. Absolute disaster pairing. The chemistry was immediate and the chaos even faster. 😂😬
The banter in this book was so sharp and effortless, and underneath all the humour was a genuinely beautiful love story built on stubbornness, frustration, vulnerability and slowly letting someone in. Thatcher and Allie constantly exasperate each other but in that delicious way where you know they’re completely doomed for each other from the start.
I also loved how layered the story felt. One minute it’s quirky and hilarious, the next it turns serious and dangerous, and somehow it still circles back into something warm, heartfelt and joyful without feeling messy or overdone.
Such a fun, clever and genuinely heartfelt romance.
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Dad
🪖 Military
🩷 Romcom
😳 Light Suspense
🤝 Matchmaker
🌓 Grumpy x Sunshine
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.
June 1, 2026
✨ “Thatcher Bryant has become my storm to weather.” ✨
Thank you to Hambright PR for the opportunity to read Meet Cute or Your Money’s Back by Katana Collins! 💗
This book completely surprised me. I went in expecting a fun contemporary romance, and somehow ended up on a rollercoaster that went from rom-com antics to full-on action movie energy. 😳
One of my favorite things about this story was watching two people carrying secrets try to build something real together. The fake relationship trope is always fun, but the layers underneath one like this made this one stand out.
I also loved Biscuit. 🐶 If a book gives me a lovable dog, I’m already halfway sold.
Also….the way the story explored moving forward after loss. It reminded me that loving someone new doesn’t erase the love you had before. The heart has room for both, and I thought that message was handled beautifully.
Now, I do have to mention that the direction this story took was WILD. What started as a romance quickly turned into something much bigger, and I genuinely did not see some of those twists coming. Somehow it worked, and I found myself completely invested to see how everything would unfold.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the opportunity to read Meet Cute or Your Money’s Back by Katana Collins! 💗
This book completely surprised me. I went in expecting a fun contemporary romance, and somehow ended up on a rollercoaster that went from rom-com antics to full-on action movie energy. 😳
One of my favorite things about this story was watching two people carrying secrets try to build something real together. The fake relationship trope is always fun, but the layers underneath one like this made this one stand out.
I also loved Biscuit. 🐶 If a book gives me a lovable dog, I’m already halfway sold.
Also….the way the story explored moving forward after loss. It reminded me that loving someone new doesn’t erase the love you had before. The heart has room for both, and I thought that message was handled beautifully.
Now, I do have to mention that the direction this story took was WILD. What started as a romance quickly turned into something much bigger, and I genuinely did not see some of those twists coming. Somehow it worked, and I found myself completely invested to see how everything would unfold.
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, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Meet Cute or Your Money Back was such a fun surprise. This book had me laughing out loud one minute and completely invested in the romance the next. Thatcher and Allie’s chemistry was SO good from the beginning — the banter, tension, and slow build between them made this impossible to put down.
I loved the mix of rom-com vibes with light suspense and action. Thatcher being a former Navy SEAL turned matchmaker was such a unique setup, and watching the grumpy, protective single dad fall for determined, witty Allie was everything. The matchmaking chaos, hilarious moments, and emotional scenes balanced each other perfectly.
And can we talk about the dogs? The rescue dog storyline added so much heart to this book and honestly made me love it even more.
If you love:
💖 Grumpy x Sunshine
🪖 Military hero
🐶 Rescue dog moments
✨ Witty banter
💕 Rom-com with suspense
…this one is definitely worth picking up. It was heartfelt, entertaining, swoony, and just an overall really enjoyable read
Meet Cute or Your Money Back was such a fun surprise. This book had me laughing out loud one minute and completely invested in the romance the next. Thatcher and Allie’s chemistry was SO good from the beginning — the banter, tension, and slow build between them made this impossible to put down.
I loved the mix of rom-com vibes with light suspense and action. Thatcher being a former Navy SEAL turned matchmaker was such a unique setup, and watching the grumpy, protective single dad fall for determined, witty Allie was everything. The matchmaking chaos, hilarious moments, and emotional scenes balanced each other perfectly.
And can we talk about the dogs? The rescue dog storyline added so much heart to this book and honestly made me love it even more.
If you love:
💖 Grumpy x Sunshine
🪖 Military hero
🐶 Rescue dog moments
✨ Witty banter
💕 Rom-com with suspense
…this one is definitely worth picking up. It was heartfelt, entertaining, swoony, and just an overall really enjoyable read
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.
May 25, 2026
First I’d like to thank Hambright PR for this ARC and to mention all ideas are my on.
This was a super cute rom-com! The Russian mafia will throw you off a bit though…
You have to power through the first part, ignore some plot holes and lapse of judgement on the characters behalf, and prepare for a hostage situation… other than that it’s a cute little vibe read that’s easy to binge in a day.
The traditional rom com middle part was definitely my favorite. I LOVE a matchmaking gone wrong story. The questionable meeting between the two main characters I could get over. But the high stakes rescue mission and over extended HAE at the end I could’ve done without. I also didn’t vibe completely with the authors writing… in one chapter, all within maybe 4 pages she uses the phrase “come hell or high water” 3 times.
All I can say is if the second book with the best friend ISN’T a love interest with the sister, I want my money back.
This was a super cute rom-com! The Russian mafia will throw you off a bit though…
You have to power through the first part, ignore some plot holes and lapse of judgement on the characters behalf, and prepare for a hostage situation… other than that it’s a cute little vibe read that’s easy to binge in a day.
The traditional rom com middle part was definitely my favorite. I LOVE a matchmaking gone wrong story. The questionable meeting between the two main characters I could get over. But the high stakes rescue mission and over extended HAE at the end I could’ve done without. I also didn’t vibe completely with the authors writing… in one chapter, all within maybe 4 pages she uses the phrase “come hell or high water” 3 times.
All I can say is if the second book with the best friend ISN’T a love interest with the sister, I want my money back.
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.
June 1, 2026
This book is such a fun romcom with light suspense about Allie a food critic aspiring to be a investigative journalist and Thatcher a former navy seal turned matchmaker.
Allie hire’s Thatcher to find her soul mate and do a secret investigative story on him. Her dating attempts had me laughing out loud. She is so clumsy, brash, and witty creating some great banter with his grumpy over protectiveness. The chemistry between them slowly builds.
Allie’s investigation inquiries gains the attention of dangerous criminals from Thatcher’s past causing the suspense.
Tropes
RomCom
Slow Burn
Match Maker
Light Suspense
Grumpy X Sunshine
Thank you Hambright PR and Katana Collins for allowing me to read this wonderful book.
Allie hire’s Thatcher to find her soul mate and do a secret investigative story on him. Her dating attempts had me laughing out loud. She is so clumsy, brash, and witty creating some great banter with his grumpy over protectiveness. The chemistry between them slowly builds.
Allie’s investigation inquiries gains the attention of dangerous criminals from Thatcher’s past causing the suspense.
Tropes
RomCom
Slow Burn
Match Maker
Light Suspense
Grumpy X Sunshine
Thank you Hambright PR and Katana Collins for allowing me to read this wonderful book.
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