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Just Haven't Met You Yet
Percy James has everything a girl could want: a comfy flat, a steady relationship and a truly lovely group of friends. Then she is approached by Eros Tech. Eros is 'the future of love' - an agency that brings together soulmates using mobile data. Percy has been identified as a match for one of Eros's super wealthy clients. The only problem is she already has a boyfriend . . . but what if this is *destiny*? Would you - could you - pass up a chance to meet your one true love?
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 11, 2016
194 people are currently reading
1301 people want to read
About the author
Cate Woods
5 books86 followersCate Woods made the most of her degree in Anglo-Saxon Literature by embarking on a career making tea on programmes including The Big Breakfast, Who Wants to be a Millionaire and French & Saunders. After narrowly missing out on the chance to become a Channel 5 weather girl she moved into journalism, where she interviewed every famous John, from Prescott to Bon Jovi, ghostwrote a weekly column for a footballer's wife and enjoyed a brief stint as one half of Closer magazine's gossip-columnist duo, 'Mr & Mrs Showbiz'. Cate left the magazine world in 2009 to pursue a full-time career ghostwriting celebrity autobiographies and novels. She lives in London with her husband (not Mr Showbiz) and two small children. Just Haven't Met You Yet is her first novel under her own name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
June 7, 2016
“Having perfected our disguise, we spend our lives searching for someone we don’t fool.”
----Robert Brault
Cate Woods, an English author, pens a hilarious and compelling story in her debut book, Just Haven't Met You Yet that weaves the journey of a woman finding the soulmate for her life, despite the fact that she has a caring and adorable boyfriend, supportive friends and an amazing job. so does she really need to embark on this soulmate-searching journey where the match is computer-generated?
Synopsis:
Percy James has everything a girl could want: a comfy flat, a steady relationship and a truly lovely group of friends. Then she is approached by Eros Tech. Eros is 'the future of love' - an agency that brings together soulmates using mobile data. Percy has been identified as a match for one of Eros's super wealthy clients. The only problem is she already has a boyfriend . . . but what if this is *destiny*? Would you - could you - pass up a chance to meet your one true love?
A riotous romantic comedy with a warm heart and magnificent twist!
Percy James might not have that perfect life, but she is content with her supportive and extremely caring boyfriend, Adam, good and funny friends, and a well-paid job to keep the wolves away from the door. Until one day she receives an email from "EROS Tech" where they have found her perfect and ideal soulmate through computer programming and also stating that a blind date has been set between the two. But hey wait a second, doesn't Percy have Adam, her supposed to be soulmate for life. So welcome to Percy's bumpy ride filled with some ROFL moments, being bisexual phase and many such sarcastic and realistic events that will keep the readers glued to the pages of this book.
The writing style of this author is absolutely fresh and eloquent unlike other books from chick-lit genre found in the bookshops. Moreover, this story is not only unpredictable but also addresses a lot of modern-day issues and dramas that makes it even more real, and the fans of contemporary fiction are going to adore this book. The narrative is witty and entertaining with a free-flowing flair that will keep the readers engaged to the very core of the story. The pacing is quite fast, even though the author touches base with so many troubles for poop Percy.
One look at the book cover image, it gives away the feeling that the book is somewhat going to be same old chick-litish drama and with an equally foreseeable happily-ever-after-fairy-tale-themed-ending. But trust me, when I say this, "This book won't disappoint you, instead it will surprise you at every turn of the page." I was taken aback by the author's positive-energy that I could easily sense it from the pages of this book as she has simply made the story an enticing one with so many real-life drama, flawed characters, non-judgmental story line. The story is additive from the very first page itself, as the readers are introduced with Percy's drama with another soulmate search despite having a boyfriend and that occurs with so many challenges on the way which are real hard to anticipate.
The characters are drawn with realism not those typical perfect and flawless bunch of characters found especially in a chick-lit novel, in short, do not expect anyone closer to the Sex and the City-kinda characters. The main protagonist, Percy, perfectly fits her cynical and often confused demeanor and it not only stops there, through her life-changing journey, she evolves into someone mature and strong. The rest of the supporting cast, especially, Percy's friends light up this whole plot like a fourth of July night and it will be real difficult for the readers to let them go by the end of the book. Shortly, the characters of this book are very well-etched out to make them look interesting and genuine into the yes of the readers.
The love here has many dimensions and with each dimension the readers are bound to get a different taste of it. Sometimes it is passionate, sometimes it is sweet, sometimes it is funny, sometime it is thoughtful and every time the author has projected with depth and feel to make the readers' hearts sync with it.
In a nutshell, this book is a must-read for all the contemps lovers and yes this is the kinda book that you definitely need to have on your beach bag. So what are you waiting for, go ahead pick a copy of this fascinating and amusing romedy novel now.
Verdict: A promising and rather unique approach taken by the author towards soul-mate searching.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Cate Woods, for giving me the opportunity to read and review her book.
----Robert Brault
Cate Woods, an English author, pens a hilarious and compelling story in her debut book, Just Haven't Met You Yet that weaves the journey of a woman finding the soulmate for her life, despite the fact that she has a caring and adorable boyfriend, supportive friends and an amazing job. so does she really need to embark on this soulmate-searching journey where the match is computer-generated?
Synopsis:
Percy James has everything a girl could want: a comfy flat, a steady relationship and a truly lovely group of friends. Then she is approached by Eros Tech. Eros is 'the future of love' - an agency that brings together soulmates using mobile data. Percy has been identified as a match for one of Eros's super wealthy clients. The only problem is she already has a boyfriend . . . but what if this is *destiny*? Would you - could you - pass up a chance to meet your one true love?
A riotous romantic comedy with a warm heart and magnificent twist!
Percy James might not have that perfect life, but she is content with her supportive and extremely caring boyfriend, Adam, good and funny friends, and a well-paid job to keep the wolves away from the door. Until one day she receives an email from "EROS Tech" where they have found her perfect and ideal soulmate through computer programming and also stating that a blind date has been set between the two. But hey wait a second, doesn't Percy have Adam, her supposed to be soulmate for life. So welcome to Percy's bumpy ride filled with some ROFL moments, being bisexual phase and many such sarcastic and realistic events that will keep the readers glued to the pages of this book.
The writing style of this author is absolutely fresh and eloquent unlike other books from chick-lit genre found in the bookshops. Moreover, this story is not only unpredictable but also addresses a lot of modern-day issues and dramas that makes it even more real, and the fans of contemporary fiction are going to adore this book. The narrative is witty and entertaining with a free-flowing flair that will keep the readers engaged to the very core of the story. The pacing is quite fast, even though the author touches base with so many troubles for poop Percy.
One look at the book cover image, it gives away the feeling that the book is somewhat going to be same old chick-litish drama and with an equally foreseeable happily-ever-after-fairy-tale-themed-ending. But trust me, when I say this, "This book won't disappoint you, instead it will surprise you at every turn of the page." I was taken aback by the author's positive-energy that I could easily sense it from the pages of this book as she has simply made the story an enticing one with so many real-life drama, flawed characters, non-judgmental story line. The story is additive from the very first page itself, as the readers are introduced with Percy's drama with another soulmate search despite having a boyfriend and that occurs with so many challenges on the way which are real hard to anticipate.
The characters are drawn with realism not those typical perfect and flawless bunch of characters found especially in a chick-lit novel, in short, do not expect anyone closer to the Sex and the City-kinda characters. The main protagonist, Percy, perfectly fits her cynical and often confused demeanor and it not only stops there, through her life-changing journey, she evolves into someone mature and strong. The rest of the supporting cast, especially, Percy's friends light up this whole plot like a fourth of July night and it will be real difficult for the readers to let them go by the end of the book. Shortly, the characters of this book are very well-etched out to make them look interesting and genuine into the yes of the readers.
The love here has many dimensions and with each dimension the readers are bound to get a different taste of it. Sometimes it is passionate, sometimes it is sweet, sometimes it is funny, sometime it is thoughtful and every time the author has projected with depth and feel to make the readers' hearts sync with it.
In a nutshell, this book is a must-read for all the contemps lovers and yes this is the kinda book that you definitely need to have on your beach bag. So what are you waiting for, go ahead pick a copy of this fascinating and amusing romedy novel now.
Verdict: A promising and rather unique approach taken by the author towards soul-mate searching.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Cate Woods, for giving me the opportunity to read and review her book.
February 21, 2024
*Algorithms*
What happens when you have a steady boyfriend of 3 years and you are going through the motions. Your boyfriend is lovely but you feel a bit flat but can’t put your finger on it. When he asks you to move in and sell your property you find yourself dragging your heels 👠👠
This is what happens to Percy James so called by her parents lol 😂
One day a dating agency approaches her claiming that they can find her exact soulmate she becomes curious. Her friends are in two courts as to what she should do but in the end she decides to go. After all it can’t hurt… Her date is nothing like she expected. She gets out of her depth and there is a lot of silliness and laugh out laugh moments. I read and listened to this one and the narrator did a great job with the different voices.
We see Percy go on to find herself and her mother had some classic one liners and as the book draws to a close Percy realises how much her mother’s voice was in her head re being an old maid etc and she has quite the surprise right at the end.
The book was a fun read and listen and I had a good laugh plus there were some cringey funny moments like when Percy is out of her depth she starts talking ten to the dozen at times as her mouth runs away with her.
What happens when you have a steady boyfriend of 3 years and you are going through the motions. Your boyfriend is lovely but you feel a bit flat but can’t put your finger on it. When he asks you to move in and sell your property you find yourself dragging your heels 👠👠
This is what happens to Percy James so called by her parents lol 😂
One day a dating agency approaches her claiming that they can find her exact soulmate she becomes curious. Her friends are in two courts as to what she should do but in the end she decides to go. After all it can’t hurt… Her date is nothing like she expected. She gets out of her depth and there is a lot of silliness and laugh out laugh moments. I read and listened to this one and the narrator did a great job with the different voices.
We see Percy go on to find herself and her mother had some classic one liners and as the book draws to a close Percy realises how much her mother’s voice was in her head re being an old maid etc and she has quite the surprise right at the end.
The book was a fun read and listen and I had a good laugh plus there were some cringey funny moments like when Percy is out of her depth she starts talking ten to the dozen at times as her mouth runs away with her.
February 19, 2016
5 Words: Romance, friends, soulmates, dating, lies.
From the blurb, the cover, and my own expectations, I thought I knew what I was getting into when I picked up this book.
I couldn't have been more wrong.
This is a wonderfully unexpected read with many little twists and turns that set it apart from your average rom-com chick-lit while still retaining the power to have you laughing out loud. It is perfect for brightening your day, for snuggling up with on a rainy day with a cup of coffee or a shot of tequila.
While covering all of the usual tropes - the failing relationship, the parent-pressure, the misunderstanding and secrets - this book manages to make them all seem like they've never been written before.
This is a relatively fast paced story, particularly for its genre. There are no lulls where nothing happens, it's all action. It's also a little bit inspiring, I loved how the main character was challenged by what was happening to her and in turn challenged herself to do those things she had always wished.
Go and grab yourself a hot and/or alcoholic drink and settle yourself down with this book. You're in for one heck of a ride.
I received a copy of this for free via the publisher for review purposes and I am taking part in the blog tour.
From the blurb, the cover, and my own expectations, I thought I knew what I was getting into when I picked up this book.
I couldn't have been more wrong.
This is a wonderfully unexpected read with many little twists and turns that set it apart from your average rom-com chick-lit while still retaining the power to have you laughing out loud. It is perfect for brightening your day, for snuggling up with on a rainy day with a cup of coffee or a shot of tequila.
While covering all of the usual tropes - the failing relationship, the parent-pressure, the misunderstanding and secrets - this book manages to make them all seem like they've never been written before.
This is a relatively fast paced story, particularly for its genre. There are no lulls where nothing happens, it's all action. It's also a little bit inspiring, I loved how the main character was challenged by what was happening to her and in turn challenged herself to do those things she had always wished.
Go and grab yourself a hot and/or alcoholic drink and settle yourself down with this book. You're in for one heck of a ride.
I received a copy of this for free via the publisher for review purposes and I am taking part in the blog tour.
November 9, 2021
dnf @60%
February 10, 2016
Lately I was in some kind of a reading slump, not the one when you can't stand the sight of a book, no matter what book it is, but the one when you must rate the books you've read with 2 or 3 stars. And then I started reading "Just Haven't Met You Yet" by Cate Woods, and oh my word, it was just what the doctor ordered...!
The premise to this book sounds so original and unusual. I mean, I've read a lot of books with blind - dates, online dating etc, but never before have I read about computer finding your soul mate, and let's be honest, I was incredibly curious how the author is going to tackle this issue - and believe me, the way she did it and the twists that came with it have just blown me away. Did I see those twists coming? No way! Did the book take me by surprise? Yes!!!
I loved the challenges the author put in front of Percy, our main character. At the beginning Percy seems to have it all - lovely boyfriend, brilliant friends, great job, and yes, lovely boyfriend. Did I mention the lovely boyfriend, who couldn't be nicer and more understanding even if she wished for it? But then, out of the blue, she's being contacted by someone very persuasive from Eros Tech, claiming that they found Percy's soul mate, a person that is going to be perfect for Percy and she's going to be perfect for this person. That Percy has a boyfriend already? No matter! And here the complications start - should Percy meet this person? Is this cheating? She'd be only meeting this person, right? But then, what if...? What if she fell in love with her soul - mate? Is she going to risk everything she knows to see that there really may exist a person that is destined for you?
I loved it! I loved this idea and the way the author brilliantly captured Percy's personality. I think I can tell you that I spent a lot of my time when reading the book wondering what would I do in Percy's shoes - and I think curiosity would get the best of me. And Percy had her doubts, of course, and it made her so realistic - that she has conscience and is loyal. The story was told from her point of view and it was brilliant to be able to get so deep into her head and hear what she thinks - because mostly it was really funny. She doesn't have the most exciting job in the world, she leads a normal life, she has a boyfriend and a family, so really, just your normal girl from the neighbourhood, but there was something exceptional to her, she was warm and nice, and I really rooted for her. Moreover, I truly adored her living in her own world of fantasy, making up things and planning how they should end, and it reminded me so much of Becky Bloomwood, always making up fantasies as well, but it didn't bother me at all, as Percy had her own distinctive voice and was a great individual.
The other characters were also brilliantly drawn, and I think that Mel, the one with the foul mouth and obsession with Michael Buble is really worth mentioning! Every time she entered the scenes I was wondering what new swear word she's going to invent, and please, keep your eyes peeled for a poem in tribute of the above mentioned Michael Buble. And all the other characters, they were such a great bunch, even Percy's mum - even though there were moments that I wanted to close the door in her face, and I am usually not a very aggressive person - they were all full of life and great personalities.
As it was told that this fantastic computer system can match you with at least 10 people, I was hoping for some more blind - dates for our Percy, and after reading about a second one I really started to doubt if this system is as good as they tried to sell it to us. I mean, this second date... No, thank you!
Cate Woods has ghost - written books before and "Just Haven't Met You yet" is the first novel under her real name, and it's a name to keep your eyes peeled - I adored the story, and the writing style is so incredibly light, engaging and easy to follow. It is full of humour, witty remarks that made me giggle or laugh - out - loud. It was incredibly fast paced and there was always something happening, and it was really full of twists and turns that I. Haven't. Seen. Coming! You know this feeling when you want to know how the book is going to end but you also don't want it to end because it's so good? Well, it was like this with "Just Haven't Met You". There was not a single flat moment, the interactions were hilarious and the characters were often at difficult crossroads. It was a great, entertaining read and I am already waiting for Ms Woods' next novel. Recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a review.
January 28, 2016
Ghost writer Cate Woods has turned her hand to writing under her own name and Just Haven’t Met You Yet is Cate’s rather fantastic debut novel.
Just haven’t Met You Yet follows the life of Percy who seems to have everything pretty much sorted. She’s got a loving boyfriend, a job that she enjoys and a group of friends that keep her smiling. However when someone from Eros Tech gets in touch to tell Percy that they’ve found her ultimate soulmate, everything she thought she knew gets thrown into disarray. Why would she need to meet her soulmate when she’s got Adam, the man who couldn’t be nicer if he tried?
Should she agree to meet her ultimate soulmate? Even if they just met up for a drink she wouldn’t be technically cheating…would she? But, what if she falls in love and realises as soon as she lays eyes on ‘the one’ that she’s been kidding herself all these years that Adam’s perfect for her…?
What would you do?
I spent the whole book contemplating what I’d do if someone claimed to have found my soulmate…I honestly don’t know whether I would want to meet them or not! The more I thought about it, the more I found myself slipping into the story and living vicariously through Percy. I was so engrossed in her story and was constantly rooting for her happiness even if at times I was wondering if she was making the right decisions!
What I loved most about Just Haven’t Met You Yet was Cate’s writing style. Every page was full to burst with humour and witty observations. Many times I found myself giggling away or sitting with a big smile on my face as Percy navigated her life. There was great pace to the story too which kept me turning the pages rapidly; there was never a lull or dull moment in the story.
Cate’s characters were a well imagined bunch with great traits and foibles; they felt so real and I was able to perfectly imagine them in my mind, watching them play out their parts as if I were there with them. My favourite character was, without a doubt, Percy but there were so many other characters I loved as the narrative moved forward. Percy’s group of friends were an ace bunch and I wished I could be part of their little gang!
What I found most exciting about this book though was the fresh take on the ‘genre’. There were so many unexpected moments in this book that really impressed me. If you think that the majority of women’s fiction is predictable then I challenge you to predict this one! Just Haven’t Met You Yet kept me guessing right up until the final page and left me with a huge smile on my face and a lovely warm feeling.
I predict great things for Cate. As a debut this stands shoulders above many others and I for one cannot wait to see what Cate gives us next! I think she’s definitely one to watch out for.
Just Haven’t Met You Yet is a funny and fresh take on the traditional love story. Full to the brim with well-developed characters, hilarious observations and moments that make your heart smile, Cate has created a novel that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Magnificent!
Just haven’t Met You Yet follows the life of Percy who seems to have everything pretty much sorted. She’s got a loving boyfriend, a job that she enjoys and a group of friends that keep her smiling. However when someone from Eros Tech gets in touch to tell Percy that they’ve found her ultimate soulmate, everything she thought she knew gets thrown into disarray. Why would she need to meet her soulmate when she’s got Adam, the man who couldn’t be nicer if he tried?
Should she agree to meet her ultimate soulmate? Even if they just met up for a drink she wouldn’t be technically cheating…would she? But, what if she falls in love and realises as soon as she lays eyes on ‘the one’ that she’s been kidding herself all these years that Adam’s perfect for her…?
What would you do?
I spent the whole book contemplating what I’d do if someone claimed to have found my soulmate…I honestly don’t know whether I would want to meet them or not! The more I thought about it, the more I found myself slipping into the story and living vicariously through Percy. I was so engrossed in her story and was constantly rooting for her happiness even if at times I was wondering if she was making the right decisions!
What I loved most about Just Haven’t Met You Yet was Cate’s writing style. Every page was full to burst with humour and witty observations. Many times I found myself giggling away or sitting with a big smile on my face as Percy navigated her life. There was great pace to the story too which kept me turning the pages rapidly; there was never a lull or dull moment in the story.
Cate’s characters were a well imagined bunch with great traits and foibles; they felt so real and I was able to perfectly imagine them in my mind, watching them play out their parts as if I were there with them. My favourite character was, without a doubt, Percy but there were so many other characters I loved as the narrative moved forward. Percy’s group of friends were an ace bunch and I wished I could be part of their little gang!
What I found most exciting about this book though was the fresh take on the ‘genre’. There were so many unexpected moments in this book that really impressed me. If you think that the majority of women’s fiction is predictable then I challenge you to predict this one! Just Haven’t Met You Yet kept me guessing right up until the final page and left me with a huge smile on my face and a lovely warm feeling.
I predict great things for Cate. As a debut this stands shoulders above many others and I for one cannot wait to see what Cate gives us next! I think she’s definitely one to watch out for.
Just Haven’t Met You Yet is a funny and fresh take on the traditional love story. Full to the brim with well-developed characters, hilarious observations and moments that make your heart smile, Cate has created a novel that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Magnificent!
May 22, 2018
I don't regret reading this book! It was really good! If you like the type of Sophie Kinsella's writing you will like this book for sure! The storyline is very different from anything I have read until now and that is a really good point! I only read chicklit and sometimes a book that's different from the others is really refreshing! This book is about finding the right person for you that will make you really truly happy in life, this book is also about finding yourself and about friendship. I really recommend this book!
March 18, 2016
Originally reviewed for Bookaholic Confessions
After an unsuccessful job interview, Percy James realises that she is spending her whole life ‘waiting’. Waiting for the super-cool dream job that she was just made to do, waiting for slimmer ankles, waiting to become BFF’s with Nick Grimshaw. Whilst she’s doing all this waiting she’s not appreciating what she has in life; a good job, her own flat, brilliant friends and she is in a secure, loving (albeit safe) relationship. As Percy sets about changing her outlook on life and appreciating the here and now, she is contacted by a company called Eros Tech. Initially dismissing the letter as an attempt to get her to have a ‘BOGOF’ boob job or some other unique proposition, Percy is alarmed to learn that Eros Tech is an agency who are contacting her to tell her that they have found her soulmate. ‘WAIT!’ I hear you cry – ‘Isn’t Percy already in a relationship?’ Well, yes…And they are just about to move in together. But to be honest Percy has been having some serious doubts about her relationship with Adam lately. But how can she possibly pass up the chance to meet her soul mate…?
Ok, serious question. Where has Cate Woods been hiding all of my adult reading life!? (The actual answer to that is that she has been working as a ghost writer.) As her debut novel under her own name, Just Haven’t Met You Yet is going to be a huge hit for Cate, and I for one COULD. NOT. GET. ENOUGH.
Cate has such a strong, distinctive style of writing. She is insanely funny and her chatty, conversational tone will draw you in to the story immediately. Her characters are brought to life magnificently and you will find yourself quickly bonding with Percy and her friends and family. I love how Cate has created a female protagonist in Percy who is just like you and me. She often goes off in a world of her own which I think is something everyone can relate to. I love it when characters do this and there were times when Percy reminded me of the legend that is Becky Bloomwood from the beloved Shopaholic novels. She’s funny, realistic and I feel that so many readers our there will be able to identify with her. She also has a awesome name…Every strong lead character needs a good, strong name, right? And Percy – or Perseus – fits that bill perfectly. Cate has captured her personality and quirks brilliantly.
The quandary that Percy finds herself in when she is first contacted by Eros Tech is also a situation that will have you questioning as to what you would do if you were in her situation. It will really get you thinking – and whilst you might not always agree with Percy’s actions, you won’t be able to resist wanting to find out how things turn out for her.
The story flows so well and I loved how many surprises there were along the way. It’s based on such a good idea and it’s also a little bit mind boggling. I was intrigued to see how Cate Wood’s was going to put this idea into action and she most certainly didn’t disappoint.
I have heard so many readers saying that they are becoming a little disillusioned with chick-lit as a genre lately (I’m not including myself in this – I love it as much as I always have done…) but if you are one of those readers who are finding it all a bit ‘samey’ lately then READ THIS! It will completely restore your faith and remind you exactly why you loved the genre in the first place. It’s engaging, fresh, light and exciting and above all, inspiring. It has pushy parents, friendship, romance, humour, misunderstandings, and a character with a Michael Buble obsession. What more could you want!?
After an unsuccessful job interview, Percy James realises that she is spending her whole life ‘waiting’. Waiting for the super-cool dream job that she was just made to do, waiting for slimmer ankles, waiting to become BFF’s with Nick Grimshaw. Whilst she’s doing all this waiting she’s not appreciating what she has in life; a good job, her own flat, brilliant friends and she is in a secure, loving (albeit safe) relationship. As Percy sets about changing her outlook on life and appreciating the here and now, she is contacted by a company called Eros Tech. Initially dismissing the letter as an attempt to get her to have a ‘BOGOF’ boob job or some other unique proposition, Percy is alarmed to learn that Eros Tech is an agency who are contacting her to tell her that they have found her soulmate. ‘WAIT!’ I hear you cry – ‘Isn’t Percy already in a relationship?’ Well, yes…And they are just about to move in together. But to be honest Percy has been having some serious doubts about her relationship with Adam lately. But how can she possibly pass up the chance to meet her soul mate…?
Ok, serious question. Where has Cate Woods been hiding all of my adult reading life!? (The actual answer to that is that she has been working as a ghost writer.) As her debut novel under her own name, Just Haven’t Met You Yet is going to be a huge hit for Cate, and I for one COULD. NOT. GET. ENOUGH.
Cate has such a strong, distinctive style of writing. She is insanely funny and her chatty, conversational tone will draw you in to the story immediately. Her characters are brought to life magnificently and you will find yourself quickly bonding with Percy and her friends and family. I love how Cate has created a female protagonist in Percy who is just like you and me. She often goes off in a world of her own which I think is something everyone can relate to. I love it when characters do this and there were times when Percy reminded me of the legend that is Becky Bloomwood from the beloved Shopaholic novels. She’s funny, realistic and I feel that so many readers our there will be able to identify with her. She also has a awesome name…Every strong lead character needs a good, strong name, right? And Percy – or Perseus – fits that bill perfectly. Cate has captured her personality and quirks brilliantly.
The quandary that Percy finds herself in when she is first contacted by Eros Tech is also a situation that will have you questioning as to what you would do if you were in her situation. It will really get you thinking – and whilst you might not always agree with Percy’s actions, you won’t be able to resist wanting to find out how things turn out for her.
The story flows so well and I loved how many surprises there were along the way. It’s based on such a good idea and it’s also a little bit mind boggling. I was intrigued to see how Cate Wood’s was going to put this idea into action and she most certainly didn’t disappoint.
I have heard so many readers saying that they are becoming a little disillusioned with chick-lit as a genre lately (I’m not including myself in this – I love it as much as I always have done…) but if you are one of those readers who are finding it all a bit ‘samey’ lately then READ THIS! It will completely restore your faith and remind you exactly why you loved the genre in the first place. It’s engaging, fresh, light and exciting and above all, inspiring. It has pushy parents, friendship, romance, humour, misunderstandings, and a character with a Michael Buble obsession. What more could you want!?
June 16, 2024
I hated the main character for 3/4 of the book! I guess that’s the point! But the writing is so easy and witty that it kept me going, I just couldn’t put down the book! Percy is not meant to be liked, she is flawed and unsettled but the whole point is that it bites her in the backside and she stumbles her way through her insecurities which is beautiful 😌
February 11, 2016
3.5 stars
I really liked the original idea of Just Haven’t Met You Yet. With all these online dating apps today, there is never the guarantee of finding the one, not even the guarantee of finding someone somewhat decent (on the contrary really). Though when an agency approaches you, saying they found your soul mate, it sounds pretty good, except for the little fact that Percy is already in a relationship. This discovery is the catalyst of every disaster that follows next.
Percy loves Adam, she thinks, honestly she’s constantly questioning their relationship, that made we wonder from the start why she is staying with him. Though it’s all about security, isn’t it? On paper Adam is the perfect boyfriend, though maybe just not for Percy. Then there is her mysterious soul mate, and what an insane surprise that was. This twist came totally out of left field, and it took me a while to accept this plot turn. Then there is also Dan, the cute guy at the office who seems to be dropping hints lately, and not to forget our knight in shining armor, Milo.
For someone who’s life was going clearly one way, there are certainly a lot of surprises. I feel whenever something new happened, Percy could yell “plot twist” to her life, and try to deal with it. I definitely liked all those many surprises, and twists in Just Haven’t Met You Yet. It kept me guessing till the end who’d she end up with.
Percy James was a lovely character. I didn’t like the fact that she so easily lied, and so much. You just know that’s going to cause a lot of drama, and I never fully understand why someone would say all those things. Other than that, she certainly was funny, and easy to relate to.
Just Haven’t Met You Yet was a quirky, and enjoyable story. There are plenty of moments that will make you smile. Though there are also plenty of moments you’ll want to shake some sense into Percy. The secondary characters were also wonderful, and you easily get caught up in all the plot twists. While maybe a bit long, and too drawn out at some parts, Just Haven’t Met You Yet was a delight to read.
*I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I really liked the original idea of Just Haven’t Met You Yet. With all these online dating apps today, there is never the guarantee of finding the one, not even the guarantee of finding someone somewhat decent (on the contrary really). Though when an agency approaches you, saying they found your soul mate, it sounds pretty good, except for the little fact that Percy is already in a relationship. This discovery is the catalyst of every disaster that follows next.
Percy loves Adam, she thinks, honestly she’s constantly questioning their relationship, that made we wonder from the start why she is staying with him. Though it’s all about security, isn’t it? On paper Adam is the perfect boyfriend, though maybe just not for Percy. Then there is her mysterious soul mate, and what an insane surprise that was. This twist came totally out of left field, and it took me a while to accept this plot turn. Then there is also Dan, the cute guy at the office who seems to be dropping hints lately, and not to forget our knight in shining armor, Milo.
For someone who’s life was going clearly one way, there are certainly a lot of surprises. I feel whenever something new happened, Percy could yell “plot twist” to her life, and try to deal with it. I definitely liked all those many surprises, and twists in Just Haven’t Met You Yet. It kept me guessing till the end who’d she end up with.
Percy James was a lovely character. I didn’t like the fact that she so easily lied, and so much. You just know that’s going to cause a lot of drama, and I never fully understand why someone would say all those things. Other than that, she certainly was funny, and easy to relate to.
Just Haven’t Met You Yet was a quirky, and enjoyable story. There are plenty of moments that will make you smile. Though there are also plenty of moments you’ll want to shake some sense into Percy. The secondary characters were also wonderful, and you easily get caught up in all the plot twists. While maybe a bit long, and too drawn out at some parts, Just Haven’t Met You Yet was a delight to read.
*I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
July 15, 2018
Just Haven't Met You Yet is certainly a laugh out loud must read. A romantic comedy with a concept and a brilliant and unpredictable twist. I have never read such a brilliant romantic comedy.
I laughed out. Take the name Perseus Andromeda James surely that's a name that belongs in the pages of a magazine, not on Eagle Insurance employee name badge.
Loved reading about Percy who see a job advertised for EROS Technologies, a company dedicated to the science of lifestyle enhancement. When Percy is interviewed for the job she make up things about her life.
The twist in this story I did not see coming and I am sure other readers won't either.
I laughed out. Take the name Perseus Andromeda James surely that's a name that belongs in the pages of a magazine, not on Eagle Insurance employee name badge.
Loved reading about Percy who see a job advertised for EROS Technologies, a company dedicated to the science of lifestyle enhancement. When Percy is interviewed for the job she make up things about her life.
The twist in this story I did not see coming and I am sure other readers won't either.
February 23, 2016
When Percy James receives a mysterious message from Eros Tech claiming to have matched her with her soul mate from the world’s population, curiosity gets the better of her and she agrees to meet the match. Little does she realise what far reaching consequences a simple meeting might have.
I loved Just Haven’t Met You Yet. It was such an engaging and fun read. It’s lighthearted but not lightweight and so well written the story races along.
I enjoyed the premise (which I won’t discuss too much here for fear of spoiling the read for others) and found the events totally plausible and frequently laugh out loud which is unusual for me. It was as if Percy was speaking directly to me with her first person narrative as if I were a close friend so that I was fully involved and cared about what happened to her. There’s a really conversational feel to the writing that is lively and interesting.
The characters are well developed making them thoroughly realistic. The naming of the lead female as Percy is a stroke of genius as readers will appreciate once they’ve read Just Haven’t Met You Yet.
Alongside the romantic comedy that Cate Woods writes so brilliantly, there are some serious issues that give depth and intensity to the story. Relationships obviously feature strongly, but there is also the consideration of how we meet the ‘right’ person for us, the difficulty in being seen as single, how parenthood affects us and what conventionality expects so that Just Haven’t Met You Yet is a truly satisfying read.
At the end, despite the fact that it was exactly as I expected, I found myself grinning from ear to ear. If you enjoy women’s fiction then Just Haven’t Met You Yet is perfect. I’d love to see it made into a film.
Cate Woods is a real talent in women’s fiction and I’m so pleased that she finally has a novel published under her own name.
http://lindasbookbag.com/2016/02/23/j...
I loved Just Haven’t Met You Yet. It was such an engaging and fun read. It’s lighthearted but not lightweight and so well written the story races along.
I enjoyed the premise (which I won’t discuss too much here for fear of spoiling the read for others) and found the events totally plausible and frequently laugh out loud which is unusual for me. It was as if Percy was speaking directly to me with her first person narrative as if I were a close friend so that I was fully involved and cared about what happened to her. There’s a really conversational feel to the writing that is lively and interesting.
The characters are well developed making them thoroughly realistic. The naming of the lead female as Percy is a stroke of genius as readers will appreciate once they’ve read Just Haven’t Met You Yet.
Alongside the romantic comedy that Cate Woods writes so brilliantly, there are some serious issues that give depth and intensity to the story. Relationships obviously feature strongly, but there is also the consideration of how we meet the ‘right’ person for us, the difficulty in being seen as single, how parenthood affects us and what conventionality expects so that Just Haven’t Met You Yet is a truly satisfying read.
At the end, despite the fact that it was exactly as I expected, I found myself grinning from ear to ear. If you enjoy women’s fiction then Just Haven’t Met You Yet is perfect. I’d love to see it made into a film.
Cate Woods is a real talent in women’s fiction and I’m so pleased that she finally has a novel published under her own name.
http://lindasbookbag.com/2016/02/23/j...
February 6, 2016
Just Haven't Met You Yet, is an impressive and enjoyable debut novel by Cate Woods. It is a fun look at what would happen if a computer created a stronger and more realistic algorithm for an enhanced dating site, always pairing you with your soul mate.
For Percy James is approached by Eros Tech and they are promising her that they have found Percy's soulmate. Just one small tiny problem, Percy is already in a relationship, and they will be moving into together very soon.
However Percy has been having a few doubts, even if she isn't quite ready to admit them out loud, and knows she will always regret if she doesn't meet the person, this computer has designated her soul mate.
Needless to say, who Percy meets on this look see at her potential future partner, isn't quite what she thought, and her life is thrown into turmoil as a result.
There are quite a few people that Percy could be sharing her happy ever after with, but you are kept guessing right until the end.
There is a lovely voice to this book, and you really get to know Percy and her friends, family and colleagues. She doesn't have the world's most exciting job, but she did have one of that incredibly rare species, a boss that really appreciates you.
There is plenty in Just Haven't Met You Yet to keep you entertained, including a Michael Buble obsessed character. Keep an eye out for a poem about Buble in the book, which will definitely have you laughing.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quercus for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
For Percy James is approached by Eros Tech and they are promising her that they have found Percy's soulmate. Just one small tiny problem, Percy is already in a relationship, and they will be moving into together very soon.
However Percy has been having a few doubts, even if she isn't quite ready to admit them out loud, and knows she will always regret if she doesn't meet the person, this computer has designated her soul mate.
Needless to say, who Percy meets on this look see at her potential future partner, isn't quite what she thought, and her life is thrown into turmoil as a result.
There are quite a few people that Percy could be sharing her happy ever after with, but you are kept guessing right until the end.
There is a lovely voice to this book, and you really get to know Percy and her friends, family and colleagues. She doesn't have the world's most exciting job, but she did have one of that incredibly rare species, a boss that really appreciates you.
There is plenty in Just Haven't Met You Yet to keep you entertained, including a Michael Buble obsessed character. Keep an eye out for a poem about Buble in the book, which will definitely have you laughing.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quercus for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
May 22, 2016
This book is a lot of fun as you journey with Percy James (Perseus-Andromeda James) along her rocky road of relationship disasters. Percy is in a comfortable relationship with a guy called Adam. In fact, he wants to take it one step further and have her move in with him, but she is starting to have serious doubts. To top it off there is this shady company called EROS Tech that seems to be almost stalking her.
Eros Tech claims to be a dating agency like no other when it comes to compatibility. In the end, they manage to wear Percy down and she agrees to meet her soulmate. However, things do not pan out as she hopes...
The book is pure escapism reading with a bit of originality at the same time, which is hard to find sometimes in chick-lit. A great summer read that leaves you with a feel-good factor. Found it interesting that it was set in Norwich as I have family there and been to visit many times. So it was novel reading about a place I have regularly visited. Look forward to reading more from this author.
Eros Tech claims to be a dating agency like no other when it comes to compatibility. In the end, they manage to wear Percy down and she agrees to meet her soulmate. However, things do not pan out as she hopes...
The book is pure escapism reading with a bit of originality at the same time, which is hard to find sometimes in chick-lit. A great summer read that leaves you with a feel-good factor. Found it interesting that it was set in Norwich as I have family there and been to visit many times. So it was novel reading about a place I have regularly visited. Look forward to reading more from this author.
February 22, 2016
This is a 2.5/5
Cate Woods has managed to write a book like nothing I’ve ever read before. An agency called Eros Tech approach the main character Percy to say they can put her in touch with her one of their rich clients. She already has a boyfriend. So will she take the chance to find out more?
I loved Mel, Percy’s work colleague, she is very funny and entertaining, I would have loved to see more of her. I found this an interesting concept, and I love the writing of Cate but unfortunately something was missing from the book for me. I think I found it all hard to believe. Despite this, I look forward to reading more from Cate Woods.
Thanks goes to Net Galley & the publishers for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review.
Cate Woods has managed to write a book like nothing I’ve ever read before. An agency called Eros Tech approach the main character Percy to say they can put her in touch with her one of their rich clients. She already has a boyfriend. So will she take the chance to find out more?
I loved Mel, Percy’s work colleague, she is very funny and entertaining, I would have loved to see more of her. I found this an interesting concept, and I love the writing of Cate but unfortunately something was missing from the book for me. I think I found it all hard to believe. Despite this, I look forward to reading more from Cate Woods.
Thanks goes to Net Galley & the publishers for providing me with this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2019
I'm a bit torn, but it's an alright story in general.
So there's this huge plot twist very early on, that I didn't expect. At all. I wasn't sure what to think about that, though. But at least I can say that the storyline wasn't too obvious - which is basically not too bad. Especially as it more or less stayed that way the entire time.
A very big issue, however, was the notorious lying of Percy. A "story" based on lies is just so unnecessary and annoying. Why can't you just tell the truth - especially in such stupid situations when there's absolutely no reason to lie. That's even worse. It wasn't even 'justified'.
Well, besides the sometimes annoying personality of the main character, the rest of the book was really enjoyable.
So there's this huge plot twist very early on, that I didn't expect. At all. I wasn't sure what to think about that, though. But at least I can say that the storyline wasn't too obvious - which is basically not too bad. Especially as it more or less stayed that way the entire time.
A very big issue, however, was the notorious lying of Percy. A "story" based on lies is just so unnecessary and annoying. Why can't you just tell the truth - especially in such stupid situations when there's absolutely no reason to lie. That's even worse. It wasn't even 'justified'.
Well, besides the sometimes annoying personality of the main character, the rest of the book was really enjoyable.
July 3, 2016
Refreshing read
I needed a weekend distraction and this book more than filled the brief. It was a don't put down, completely consuming, addictive read, that didn't last longer than a day and now left me wanting more! I will certainly be looking out for new titles as they appear, happy days!
I needed a weekend distraction and this book more than filled the brief. It was a don't put down, completely consuming, addictive read, that didn't last longer than a day and now left me wanting more! I will certainly be looking out for new titles as they appear, happy days!
August 11, 2018
Average. I was really enjoying this book until three quarters of the way in. Unrealistic, and no answers given at the end which is a little frustrating. Well written and I would try another by this author. Imagine if there really was a computer which could detect your soulmate? Trouble would be brewing! 3 stars.
February 7, 2017
This was surprisingly unexpected. I did not see that plot happening in what seemed to be, on the outside, a typical upbeat chick lit! I enjoyed this - my only niggle? This woman literally fell in love with every person that crossed her path. It was tiring. Other than that, a great little read.
February 10, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. Nice little twist and some nice ideas about soulmates. Also loved that it was set in Norwich.
March 13, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Was definitely not expecting that plot twist!
October 14, 2021
This isn’t the worst thing I’ve read, and that is the only reason for the two stars because man did the characters annoy me. None more so than the lead, Miss Perseus Andromeda James. She spends her time lying and then blaming others for her own mistakes. Whether she was messing up a job interview with countless, idiotic lies – it's like she doesn’t have a shred of common sense. She’s so self-involved, and just really unlikeable. There's one point, her completely reliable boyfriend, Adam, who loves her, he goes off on a golfing weekend with his friends, and because she's been so wrapped up in herself she claims he never mentioned the trip, and she’s assuming he's cheating then, within that chapter, she’s decided to meet her potential soulmate. But it's fine, it's not a date, she’s just going to do some recon, see if they’re compatible. If they are, that’s Adam's heart broken, and if they’re not, Adam never has to know. What!
That her soulmate turned out to be a woman makes no difference.
This could have been a really interesting read of a women, having only dated men, put in a situation that made her question everything she's believed about herself. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t that for me. Flora and Adam deserve better. If Flora wasn’t a lesbian, and because of the countless celebrity references, her and Adam should have done what Shania Twain did – marrying her ex best friends husband after the friend had an affair with Twain's husband – and gotten together.
Then there's Dan. Then Milo. It's quite a mess of things. I was hoping – for probably the first time in my life – there is no happy ending, in the sense of two people ending up together. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, and it feel like it was all so rushed. Literally, there's no build up, it just sort of happens in the last chapter.
Milo deserves better. Although, as it's stated several times, his choice in women isn’t fantastic.
The story is also bogged down by a million side stories. There's Lou, and her crisis with her identity after having a child – resolved over a quick chat. Jaye and her moping after being dumped by her TV star husband, him wanting a divorce, then getting back to work, and I’m guessing re-establishing her identity, but that’s quickly glossed over too. There's her grandmother marrying a much younger darts player. Her co-worker, Mel, and her obsession with Michael Bublé, which she won a competition to meet him, but we don’t ever find out what happened - the book is named after one of his songs, so why isn't she the main character rather than Percy? Surely a better title for this book would be a reference to Ferris Bueller's Day Off, considering it's Percy's favourite film?
Anyway, that’s all on top of Percy having a boyfriend, potentially moving in with him and selling her flat, dumping boyfriend, “questioning” her sexuality, all the lying, being mugged, fantasizing about Dan who turns out he likes Jaye, sort of realising she likes Milo, but not really until she figured he's attractive – before he'd kind of hid his appearance behind costumes he'd been wearing at the time, coming clean to Flora that she’s not gay, depressed over losing friendship with Flora, becoming friends again with Flora, discovering Flora and Milo are brother and sister, figuring that Milo is her soulmate since he's so similar to Flora, being depressed because she thought she blew it with Milo, then ultimately ending with them planning a date and heavily implying a HEA for the pair.
Yeah, there’s a lot going on, and I’ve left out stuff. If the author had chosen one or two of the side stories, and further expanded on those and building more of a relationship between Percy and Milo, it would have been so much better. I think it's a case of too many ideas spoiling what could have been an interesting read.
That her soulmate turned out to be a woman makes no difference.
This could have been a really interesting read of a women, having only dated men, put in a situation that made her question everything she's believed about herself. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t that for me. Flora and Adam deserve better. If Flora wasn’t a lesbian, and because of the countless celebrity references, her and Adam should have done what Shania Twain did – marrying her ex best friends husband after the friend had an affair with Twain's husband – and gotten together.
Then there's Dan. Then Milo. It's quite a mess of things. I was hoping – for probably the first time in my life – there is no happy ending, in the sense of two people ending up together. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, and it feel like it was all so rushed. Literally, there's no build up, it just sort of happens in the last chapter.
Milo deserves better. Although, as it's stated several times, his choice in women isn’t fantastic.
The story is also bogged down by a million side stories. There's Lou, and her crisis with her identity after having a child – resolved over a quick chat. Jaye and her moping after being dumped by her TV star husband, him wanting a divorce, then getting back to work, and I’m guessing re-establishing her identity, but that’s quickly glossed over too. There's her grandmother marrying a much younger darts player. Her co-worker, Mel, and her obsession with Michael Bublé, which she won a competition to meet him, but we don’t ever find out what happened - the book is named after one of his songs, so why isn't she the main character rather than Percy? Surely a better title for this book would be a reference to Ferris Bueller's Day Off, considering it's Percy's favourite film?
Anyway, that’s all on top of Percy having a boyfriend, potentially moving in with him and selling her flat, dumping boyfriend, “questioning” her sexuality, all the lying, being mugged, fantasizing about Dan who turns out he likes Jaye, sort of realising she likes Milo, but not really until she figured he's attractive – before he'd kind of hid his appearance behind costumes he'd been wearing at the time, coming clean to Flora that she’s not gay, depressed over losing friendship with Flora, becoming friends again with Flora, discovering Flora and Milo are brother and sister, figuring that Milo is her soulmate since he's so similar to Flora, being depressed because she thought she blew it with Milo, then ultimately ending with them planning a date and heavily implying a HEA for the pair.
Yeah, there’s a lot going on, and I’ve left out stuff. If the author had chosen one or two of the side stories, and further expanded on those and building more of a relationship between Percy and Milo, it would have been so much better. I think it's a case of too many ideas spoiling what could have been an interesting read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2017
From the blurb
"Percy James has everything a girl could want: a comfy flat, a steady relationship and a truly lovely group of friends. Then she is approached by Eros Tech. Eros is 'the future of love' – an agency that brings together soulmates using phone data. Percy has been identified as a match for one of Eros's super wealthy clients. The only problem is she already has a boyfriend …but what if this is *destiny*? Would you – could you – pass up a chance to meet your one true love?"
~~~~~~
So, Percy is trundling along in a comfortable relationship but then, EROS, a dating company who claim to find your ultimate compatible soulmate, invite her to meet her match. After umm-ing and ah-ing over whether it would be cheating Percy decides to go ahead, but her ultimate compatible soulmate comes as something of a shock.
This book has a lot going for it. I like the authors style and I felt that Percy was a well written relatable character. Prone to fantasising about a situation before it happens – we all do that don't we?
I actually enjoyed the whole cast of characters in this book. Because we meet Percy's family, her group of close knit girl friends, and her colleagues, it keeps things varied. Cate Woods has done well to introduce a fairly large cast of characters without it ever becoming muddled.
I particularly liked Mel, a work colleague with a Michael Bublé obsession.
Just haven't met you yet is a little predictable at times, but I often wonder if we've peaked in finding new storylines? Anyway, this book is enjoyable enough that the predictable-ness didn't really matter.
There was one thing that disappointed me about the story though. I don't want to drop any big spoilers on you but when Percy meets her proposed soulmate I thought oh, ok, this is a fresh storyline! Definitely something different for this genre, and I was really intrigued to see where it would lead, unfortunately it didn't lead anywhere. I felt like an opportunity to break the mould was missed.
Despite my disappointment I'm still giving Just haven't met you yet a respectable 4 out of 5 stars because it's a very enjoyable read.
"Percy James has everything a girl could want: a comfy flat, a steady relationship and a truly lovely group of friends. Then she is approached by Eros Tech. Eros is 'the future of love' – an agency that brings together soulmates using phone data. Percy has been identified as a match for one of Eros's super wealthy clients. The only problem is she already has a boyfriend …but what if this is *destiny*? Would you – could you – pass up a chance to meet your one true love?"
~~~~~~
So, Percy is trundling along in a comfortable relationship but then, EROS, a dating company who claim to find your ultimate compatible soulmate, invite her to meet her match. After umm-ing and ah-ing over whether it would be cheating Percy decides to go ahead, but her ultimate compatible soulmate comes as something of a shock.
This book has a lot going for it. I like the authors style and I felt that Percy was a well written relatable character. Prone to fantasising about a situation before it happens – we all do that don't we?
I actually enjoyed the whole cast of characters in this book. Because we meet Percy's family, her group of close knit girl friends, and her colleagues, it keeps things varied. Cate Woods has done well to introduce a fairly large cast of characters without it ever becoming muddled.
I particularly liked Mel, a work colleague with a Michael Bublé obsession.
Just haven't met you yet is a little predictable at times, but I often wonder if we've peaked in finding new storylines? Anyway, this book is enjoyable enough that the predictable-ness didn't really matter.
There was one thing that disappointed me about the story though. I don't want to drop any big spoilers on you but when Percy meets her proposed soulmate I thought oh, ok, this is a fresh storyline! Definitely something different for this genre, and I was really intrigued to see where it would lead, unfortunately it didn't lead anywhere. I felt like an opportunity to break the mould was missed.
Despite my disappointment I'm still giving Just haven't met you yet a respectable 4 out of 5 stars because it's a very enjoyable read.
February 1, 2016
I was kindly given a copy through Netgalley, with many thanks to the publisher.
I'm in two minds about this book. There's parts that I really liked and there's parts that I wasn't very keen on.
Let's start off with the fact that Cate Woods has a distinctive writer's voice. It doesn't sound like many other chicklit authors out there. This is definitely a strength as it immediately makes the book feel like new and interesting.
So we meet Perseus, Percy, and she has a lot of endearing factors for a female protagonists. She lives in her own world a lot, making up fantasies about how things could possibly turn out (and let's face it, this is something we're all guilty off). She's clumsy and impulsive. It all makes her very easy to relate to.
However I felt that her characters sometimes really pushed the boundaries too much (the line is a dot to you!), making her not only sound moany but her constant indecisiveness nearly gave me a whiplash. The author always made sure that Percy's reasoning was clear to the reader, managing to not make it sound like it was just another plot twist. But after a while I found myself thinking 'again?'.
What I liked most about this story is that for a very long time it kept me wondering about the outcome. And Woods managed to surprise me more than once with a few little surprises.
As a debut novel this was a good start and I'm curious to see what more Woods will come up with in the future.
I'm in two minds about this book. There's parts that I really liked and there's parts that I wasn't very keen on.
Let's start off with the fact that Cate Woods has a distinctive writer's voice. It doesn't sound like many other chicklit authors out there. This is definitely a strength as it immediately makes the book feel like new and interesting.
So we meet Perseus, Percy, and she has a lot of endearing factors for a female protagonists. She lives in her own world a lot, making up fantasies about how things could possibly turn out (and let's face it, this is something we're all guilty off). She's clumsy and impulsive. It all makes her very easy to relate to.
However I felt that her characters sometimes really pushed the boundaries too much (the line is a dot to you!), making her not only sound moany but her constant indecisiveness nearly gave me a whiplash. The author always made sure that Percy's reasoning was clear to the reader, managing to not make it sound like it was just another plot twist. But after a while I found myself thinking 'again?'.
What I liked most about this story is that for a very long time it kept me wondering about the outcome. And Woods managed to surprise me more than once with a few little surprises.
As a debut novel this was a good start and I'm curious to see what more Woods will come up with in the future.
October 31, 2020
Great concept, disappointing execution.
I don't usually read chick lit. But I picked this one up because of the intriguing premise: an algorithm that can analyse the browsing habits of everyone across the globe who's connected to the Internet, and tell you who your soulmate is! Unfortunately the book didn't deliver on its premise, with missteps in both its characters and plot.
Flora is such a stereotype. Imagine how dull she'd be if she were a male love interest: handsome, rich, successful, sophisticated, always smells great, keeps telling the protagonist how in love with her he is even though they've done nothing more than share a few meals and talk about movies they both like, and when he finally descends out of his ultra-rich London bubble to the protagonist's ordinary hometown of Norwich, the protagonist actually thinks he seems as out-of-place as a "unicorn"! It's as though just because she's a woman, that automatically makes her a "rounded" character.
I'd like to contrast her with Adam, a character whom people in-universe find dull, yet whom I actually find much more relatable than Flora. No matter how many times Percy bemoans his sensible-ness and boring-ness, he, unlike Flora, has flaws and quirks. He gets upset when someone messes up his precious knitwear. He doesn't consider that his girlfriend might not want to travel to the same place as they did last year for their summer holiday, because he himself thinks that would be wonderful. He gets confused and not particularly aroused when his girlfriend dresses up as a "sexy" lollipop lady. He shouts at Percy because he can't understand why her reason for dumping him is that "red doesn't suit everyone". In short, he is human. Has Flora ever disagreed with Percy or done anything less than perfect, apart from the time they broke up? I honestly could not understand why both of them got so invested in their relationship; each kept telling the other how compatible she felt, but I didn't feel it.
Milo is another waste of a character. Make a named major male character pop up in the first half of your story, and keep letting him show up despite having no apparent plot relevance. How obvious is it that he will have a big role by the story's end? When Percy got her second chance at using SoulDate, I predicted that the man would be either Milo or Adam. I was wrong, but she still ended up with Milo at the end, so I wasn't that far off.
This is a good juncture to talk about how disappointed I was with the ending. I literally came up with a list of endings which I would have preferred to the real one:
1. Percy ends up with Flora. She realises that sexuality really is fluid, or at least that her spiritual attraction to Flora is stronger than her lack of sexual attraction. Although I wouldn't support two women dating in real life, I was hoping for that to happen because how often do we see a bisexual protagonist in chick lit? I would like to hear Percy's musings on how dating a woman differs from dating a man - we got some of that when she noted that Flora, as a woman, would know how much effort goes into "no-effort" makeup.
2. SoulDate calls Percy to apologise because the algorithm has made a mistake: Percy isn't really Flora's soulmate. Percy is stunned because she and Flora have already become so close. She realises that what another character (I forget which) had earlier asked is true: what if Percy is attracted to Flora only because she already believes that Flora is her soulmate? Now that Percy realises the power of self-fulfilling prophecy, she resolves to put her best efforts into future relationships instead of holding back because she's afraid it won't work out.
3. SoulDate's second match for Percy is... (drumroll) Adam, her original boyfriend! Percy realises how foolish she's been for blindly following an algorithm's recommendations: dumping and then getting back together with the same boyfriend just because it said so. She and Adam work to communicate more effectively about their differing preferences for adventure and excitement, and they live happily ever after.
4. Percy stays happily single. By the end she's made her fantasy hobbies from the start of the book real, all by herself, and realises she doesn't need a man to make her life complete.
Any of these endings would have said something interesting and important about the themes of love, relationships and technology. Instead we got a cookie-cutter ending - after abruptly dumping her boyfriend and repeatedly lying to a woman she dated, our protagonist finds a new guy and lives happily ever after. Can we see more consequences for the way she treated Adam and Flora? I am glad she feels guilty (about Flora at least), and I am glad they were magnanimous enough to forgive her, but in the real world our actions can hurt more than just their direct victims, and can have wide-ranging consequences. What if Milo needed to distance himself from her for a while after the revelation that she's the woman who's been treating his sister like dirt? What if Adam married his new girlfriend and all Norwich celebrated their wedding, and kept asking Percy why she let him go? Let's see her uncomfortable, let's see her own up to her mistakes.
Finally, I want to criticise not just the book but its underlying worldview: that an algorithm capable of determining the most compatible person with you in the world would be a wonderful thing to have. I believe that most people picking up this book would share this worldview. I don't. I believe that the amount of work both parties put into the relationship is far more important than the compatibility of their personalities. Better a relationship with someone you're sort-of compatible with, where both parties commit to communicating honestly and putting the other's needs before their own, than a relationship with your "soulmate" where both parties think that now that they've found The One, there will be no more conflicts and they don't need to put any more effort into maintaining the relationship. I was surprised that out of all the objections various characters raised to the algorithm, no one mentioned this obvious point: relationships need effort, not just compatibility.
1.5 stars - 1 star for the inventive premise and 0.5 stars for keeping me turning the pages to find out the ending, but no higher for failing to make either the premise or the ending worthwhile.
I don't usually read chick lit. But I picked this one up because of the intriguing premise: an algorithm that can analyse the browsing habits of everyone across the globe who's connected to the Internet, and tell you who your soulmate is! Unfortunately the book didn't deliver on its premise, with missteps in both its characters and plot.
Flora is such a stereotype. Imagine how dull she'd be if she were a male love interest: handsome, rich, successful, sophisticated, always smells great, keeps telling the protagonist how in love with her he is even though they've done nothing more than share a few meals and talk about movies they both like, and when he finally descends out of his ultra-rich London bubble to the protagonist's ordinary hometown of Norwich, the protagonist actually thinks he seems as out-of-place as a "unicorn"! It's as though just because she's a woman, that automatically makes her a "rounded" character.
I'd like to contrast her with Adam, a character whom people in-universe find dull, yet whom I actually find much more relatable than Flora. No matter how many times Percy bemoans his sensible-ness and boring-ness, he, unlike Flora, has flaws and quirks. He gets upset when someone messes up his precious knitwear. He doesn't consider that his girlfriend might not want to travel to the same place as they did last year for their summer holiday, because he himself thinks that would be wonderful. He gets confused and not particularly aroused when his girlfriend dresses up as a "sexy" lollipop lady. He shouts at Percy because he can't understand why her reason for dumping him is that "red doesn't suit everyone". In short, he is human. Has Flora ever disagreed with Percy or done anything less than perfect, apart from the time they broke up? I honestly could not understand why both of them got so invested in their relationship; each kept telling the other how compatible she felt, but I didn't feel it.
Milo is another waste of a character. Make a named major male character pop up in the first half of your story, and keep letting him show up despite having no apparent plot relevance. How obvious is it that he will have a big role by the story's end? When Percy got her second chance at using SoulDate, I predicted that the man would be either Milo or Adam. I was wrong, but she still ended up with Milo at the end, so I wasn't that far off.
This is a good juncture to talk about how disappointed I was with the ending. I literally came up with a list of endings which I would have preferred to the real one:
1. Percy ends up with Flora. She realises that sexuality really is fluid, or at least that her spiritual attraction to Flora is stronger than her lack of sexual attraction. Although I wouldn't support two women dating in real life, I was hoping for that to happen because how often do we see a bisexual protagonist in chick lit? I would like to hear Percy's musings on how dating a woman differs from dating a man - we got some of that when she noted that Flora, as a woman, would know how much effort goes into "no-effort" makeup.
2. SoulDate calls Percy to apologise because the algorithm has made a mistake: Percy isn't really Flora's soulmate. Percy is stunned because she and Flora have already become so close. She realises that what another character (I forget which) had earlier asked is true: what if Percy is attracted to Flora only because she already believes that Flora is her soulmate? Now that Percy realises the power of self-fulfilling prophecy, she resolves to put her best efforts into future relationships instead of holding back because she's afraid it won't work out.
3. SoulDate's second match for Percy is... (drumroll) Adam, her original boyfriend! Percy realises how foolish she's been for blindly following an algorithm's recommendations: dumping and then getting back together with the same boyfriend just because it said so. She and Adam work to communicate more effectively about their differing preferences for adventure and excitement, and they live happily ever after.
4. Percy stays happily single. By the end she's made her fantasy hobbies from the start of the book real, all by herself, and realises she doesn't need a man to make her life complete.
Any of these endings would have said something interesting and important about the themes of love, relationships and technology. Instead we got a cookie-cutter ending - after abruptly dumping her boyfriend and repeatedly lying to a woman she dated, our protagonist finds a new guy and lives happily ever after. Can we see more consequences for the way she treated Adam and Flora? I am glad she feels guilty (about Flora at least), and I am glad they were magnanimous enough to forgive her, but in the real world our actions can hurt more than just their direct victims, and can have wide-ranging consequences. What if Milo needed to distance himself from her for a while after the revelation that she's the woman who's been treating his sister like dirt? What if Adam married his new girlfriend and all Norwich celebrated their wedding, and kept asking Percy why she let him go? Let's see her uncomfortable, let's see her own up to her mistakes.
Finally, I want to criticise not just the book but its underlying worldview: that an algorithm capable of determining the most compatible person with you in the world would be a wonderful thing to have. I believe that most people picking up this book would share this worldview. I don't. I believe that the amount of work both parties put into the relationship is far more important than the compatibility of their personalities. Better a relationship with someone you're sort-of compatible with, where both parties commit to communicating honestly and putting the other's needs before their own, than a relationship with your "soulmate" where both parties think that now that they've found The One, there will be no more conflicts and they don't need to put any more effort into maintaining the relationship. I was surprised that out of all the objections various characters raised to the algorithm, no one mentioned this obvious point: relationships need effort, not just compatibility.
1.5 stars - 1 star for the inventive premise and 0.5 stars for keeping me turning the pages to find out the ending, but no higher for failing to make either the premise or the ending worthwhile.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2017
The trials and tribulations of falling in love! There are a few twists in this fun read that made me wonder exactly what might be going on and how Percy’s story would turn out. There were just enough clues to work out who she would end up with but there was still a little surprise right at the end. Well written with very likeable characters, the plot rolls on at a steady ‘must read what’s on the next page’ pace. Very entertaining.
November 13, 2017
Well that was something different . Quirky , humorous and a good story it was most enjoyable . Loads going on and my interest never waned. Some really funny one liners made this a must to read/ listen to.
February 8, 2016
Good for fans of Bridget Jones, a cute little romance. Admittedly am now thinking about the real world application of EROS technology!
July 24, 2016
Some funny moments but not really enough to stop the book being slow.
November 17, 2017
Enjoyable book
I enjoyed this book it is a laughable book so if you need cheering up read this book , pure silliness in places but e enjoyable .
I enjoyed this book it is a laughable book so if you need cheering up read this book , pure silliness in places but e enjoyable .
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