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Then I Met You
Dream date . . . or an absolute nightmare?
Lisa’s dated a series of disastrous men; Simon’s loved and lost the girl of his dreams. She’s hoping fate might intervene in her love life; he’d prefer that it stopped meddling with his.
Today, they’re meeting, courtesy of the local paper’s ‘Blind Date’ feature – but while Lisa’s looking for that elusive ‘spark’, Simon’s sure lightning doesn’t strike twice. Will theirs be a love that’s written in the stars, or merely another mismatch written up in the Gazette?
From the bestselling author of At the Wedding comes a story of two perfect strangers who might just be perfect for each other.
Lisa’s dated a series of disastrous men; Simon’s loved and lost the girl of his dreams. She’s hoping fate might intervene in her love life; he’d prefer that it stopped meddling with his.
Today, they’re meeting, courtesy of the local paper’s ‘Blind Date’ feature – but while Lisa’s looking for that elusive ‘spark’, Simon’s sure lightning doesn’t strike twice. Will theirs be a love that’s written in the stars, or merely another mismatch written up in the Gazette?
From the bestselling author of At the Wedding comes a story of two perfect strangers who might just be perfect for each other.
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First published April 6, 2019
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About the author
Matt Dunn
23 books371 followersMatt was born in Margate, but eventually escaped to Spain to write his first novel (in between working as a newspaper columnist, and playing a lot of tennis). Previously he has been a professional lifeguard, fitness equipment salesman, and an IT head hunter, but he prefers writing for a living, so hopes people will keep buying his books.
Matt is the author of four contemporary romantic comedy novels; Best Man, The Ex-Boyfriend's Handbook (which was shortlisted for both the Romantic Novel Of The Year award, as well as the Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance), From Here To Paternity, and Ex-Girlfriends United. He's also written about life, love, and relationships for various publications including The Times, Guardian, Cosmopolitan, Company, Elle, Glamour, and The Sun.
Several of Matt's novels have been translated for various European markets (he's big in the Balkans, apparently), as well as as far afield as Malaysia and Indonesia. He's a regular on the literary festival scene, and rates the recent lecturing stint he did on the Creative Writing degree course at London Metropolitan University as one of the most rewarding things he's ever done - and not only because of the number of ideas he was able to appropriate from his students for his books.
Matt is the author of four contemporary romantic comedy novels; Best Man, The Ex-Boyfriend's Handbook (which was shortlisted for both the Romantic Novel Of The Year award, as well as the Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance), From Here To Paternity, and Ex-Girlfriends United. He's also written about life, love, and relationships for various publications including The Times, Guardian, Cosmopolitan, Company, Elle, Glamour, and The Sun.
Several of Matt's novels have been translated for various European markets (he's big in the Balkans, apparently), as well as as far afield as Malaysia and Indonesia. He's a regular on the literary festival scene, and rates the recent lecturing stint he did on the Creative Writing degree course at London Metropolitan University as one of the most rewarding things he's ever done - and not only because of the number of ideas he was able to appropriate from his students for his books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
September 11, 2019
Simon is still grieving for his partner Alice who died a few years ago. His best friend Will wants him to move on with his life rather than continue to mope around believing that no woman could ever live up to Alice. Will offers to take Simon to a new restaurant but he’s actually not going, he’s set him up on a blind date.
Lisa hasn’t had the best experience with men and her last partner has made her realise that she needs to change the type she goes for. Her best friend Jess sets her up on a blind date at a fancy new restaurant as part of a newspaper column she runs in the Gazette.
The date between Simon and Lisa doesn’t start well when Lisa walks out in front of Simon’s car and both won’t back down as to who was at fault. Moving on to the restaurant and they soon realise that they have been paired with one another. But with nothing in common, Lisa likes tea, Simon prefers coffee. Lisa likes astrology and Simon thinks it’s childish to believe in your star sign, the two part company and hope to put the experience behind them. However, forgetting about one another isn’t that simple.
I adore Matt Dunn’s books. They are full of funny moments and wonderful characters, Then I Met You is no exception. The book is totally predictable but isn’t all Rom-Coms? If you want unpredictable I’d suggest reading a mystery or a thriller book.
Simon was such a lovable character. Yes, he moaned a lot and thought little of himself, but this was a man who was still grieving for the love of his life. He knew in his heart that he needed to move on with his life but he also didn’t want to forget about Alice, nor replace her.
Lisa is a very headstrong woman, she doesn’t like others doing things for her. She wants to be an independent woman whilst at the same time be in a relationship, trouble is she seems to go for bad boy after bad boy which causes her one heart-ache after another.
The plot was enjoyable, there were plenty of humorous moments. You know what the story is building up to, yet I enjoyed the wait and watching these two people who seem to have an instant dislike for one another realise that they might actually be good for one another.
The book is told in the third person and from dual POV so we get to see both sides of the story. I’m not always a fan of dual POV (or multiple) but this worked well and I was never left confused.
The book is entertaining and satisfying and I read it in just two sittings as once I’d started reading I didn’t want to stop.
Lisa hasn’t had the best experience with men and her last partner has made her realise that she needs to change the type she goes for. Her best friend Jess sets her up on a blind date at a fancy new restaurant as part of a newspaper column she runs in the Gazette.
The date between Simon and Lisa doesn’t start well when Lisa walks out in front of Simon’s car and both won’t back down as to who was at fault. Moving on to the restaurant and they soon realise that they have been paired with one another. But with nothing in common, Lisa likes tea, Simon prefers coffee. Lisa likes astrology and Simon thinks it’s childish to believe in your star sign, the two part company and hope to put the experience behind them. However, forgetting about one another isn’t that simple.
I adore Matt Dunn’s books. They are full of funny moments and wonderful characters, Then I Met You is no exception. The book is totally predictable but isn’t all Rom-Coms? If you want unpredictable I’d suggest reading a mystery or a thriller book.
Simon was such a lovable character. Yes, he moaned a lot and thought little of himself, but this was a man who was still grieving for the love of his life. He knew in his heart that he needed to move on with his life but he also didn’t want to forget about Alice, nor replace her.
Lisa is a very headstrong woman, she doesn’t like others doing things for her. She wants to be an independent woman whilst at the same time be in a relationship, trouble is she seems to go for bad boy after bad boy which causes her one heart-ache after another.
The plot was enjoyable, there were plenty of humorous moments. You know what the story is building up to, yet I enjoyed the wait and watching these two people who seem to have an instant dislike for one another realise that they might actually be good for one another.
The book is told in the third person and from dual POV so we get to see both sides of the story. I’m not always a fan of dual POV (or multiple) but this worked well and I was never left confused.
The book is entertaining and satisfying and I read it in just two sittings as once I’d started reading I didn’t want to stop.
September 7, 2019
From my Updates:
This was rollicking on and I was thoroughly enjoying Simon (and Lisa) A delightfully frothy story until one word at the 16% mark which changed the whole tone of the story so far. This promises to be WONDERFUL
(pleasepleaseplease dont disappoint me...)
And I'm delighted to say that it didn't disappoint - apart from the fact that the story ended. I would have loved to have read more.
This is a truly lovely story: funny, tender, honest, romantic and heart-wrenching in places. There's only one thing wring with it in my opinion - the cover gives the impression of a much more 'frothy' story - the sort that's touted as 'a laugh out loud comedy' (which I usually avoid like the plague because more often than not they are cringingly awful and full of 'lavatory humour)
This is just a lovely, lovely story with two wonderful, believable characters. I fell in love with Simon right from the start. It was such a relief to read about a man who wasn't perfect, who was nervous and uneasy and shy and yet who was genuinely decent.
I wish more authors wrote books as lovely as this.
This was rollicking on and I was thoroughly enjoying Simon (and Lisa) A delightfully frothy story until one word at the 16% mark which changed the whole tone of the story so far. This promises to be WONDERFUL
(pleasepleaseplease dont disappoint me...)
And I'm delighted to say that it didn't disappoint - apart from the fact that the story ended. I would have loved to have read more.
This is a truly lovely story: funny, tender, honest, romantic and heart-wrenching in places. There's only one thing wring with it in my opinion - the cover gives the impression of a much more 'frothy' story - the sort that's touted as 'a laugh out loud comedy' (which I usually avoid like the plague because more often than not they are cringingly awful and full of 'lavatory humour)
This is just a lovely, lovely story with two wonderful, believable characters. I fell in love with Simon right from the start. It was such a relief to read about a man who wasn't perfect, who was nervous and uneasy and shy and yet who was genuinely decent.
I wish more authors wrote books as lovely as this.
November 8, 2020
Simon and Lisa have a blind date which starts off pretty horrible (and somewhat funny). They agree that they are incompatible and to go their separate ways, but fate keeps bringing them back together (mostly under the guise of completing a questionnaire for the local paper). Eventually, as the hours pass, they get to know each other more than just on a superficial basis and begin to like each other.
It was cute and a little funny in places. I feel like Simon's character was extremely similar to Nathan's in Matt Dunn's A Day at the Office. Both men are paralyzed to move on after their last relationships, though Simon's reasons are more intense. Lisa was an interesting character. She is making herself over after a trip to Cancun and is trying to live by the motto "Carpe Diem" and all that, but frequently contradicts herself, sometimes within the same argument. She is the type of person that I would think would drive Simon completely crazy, and I guess she does. This is a little more than a simple opposites attract story, it is also about two people discovering that what they want and what they need might come in unexpected ways.
It was cute and a little funny in places. I feel like Simon's character was extremely similar to Nathan's in Matt Dunn's A Day at the Office. Both men are paralyzed to move on after their last relationships, though Simon's reasons are more intense. Lisa was an interesting character. She is making herself over after a trip to Cancun and is trying to live by the motto "Carpe Diem" and all that, but frequently contradicts herself, sometimes within the same argument. She is the type of person that I would think would drive Simon completely crazy, and I guess she does. This is a little more than a simple opposites attract story, it is also about two people discovering that what they want and what they need might come in unexpected ways.
July 20, 2019
#ThenImetYou #NetGalley
I have been thinking that my diet of "women's fiction" written by women from diverse backgrounds, could possibly use some... testosterone? So I was happy to be approved to read this book from Netgalley (Thanks!)
This book has a quick easy pace which you can read quickly, as I did. The story is about Lisa and Simon who are set up on a blind date by their friends which is a nightmare... That never ends. In spite of the characters discomfort, it's a funny, light read.
It's not all fluff though. I like how the author pays some attention to developing characters so that you hear about their "flaws" but then you also see them manifest on the date. And possibly grow?? Not telling, no spoilers.
Now when I say flaws, I really just mean Lisa... At times I felt like Lisa was based on a "crazy ex" of the author, portraying her as intense, bossy and inattentive. Other times she just seemed a little dumb (walking into traffic, her whole trip to Mexico, tattoo, etc). Simon, on the other hand, is shy, smart, gentlemanly and kind. All. The. Time. The worst of him is that he's just SO honest (1millioneyerolls) that he really thinks it would be great to get feedback from an ex (not his!) on what's wrong with... Lisa. (🙄🤯🤬)
There are many moments of classic comedic setups - coincidences, mistaken identity and misunderstandings for days. It keeps the story moving, but a healthy suspension of disbelief is required.
I enjoyed the description of the city and felt like the setting is important to this author. I felt closer to the story picturing the town.
I have been thinking that my diet of "women's fiction" written by women from diverse backgrounds, could possibly use some... testosterone? So I was happy to be approved to read this book from Netgalley (Thanks!)
This book has a quick easy pace which you can read quickly, as I did. The story is about Lisa and Simon who are set up on a blind date by their friends which is a nightmare... That never ends. In spite of the characters discomfort, it's a funny, light read.
It's not all fluff though. I like how the author pays some attention to developing characters so that you hear about their "flaws" but then you also see them manifest on the date. And possibly grow?? Not telling, no spoilers.
Now when I say flaws, I really just mean Lisa... At times I felt like Lisa was based on a "crazy ex" of the author, portraying her as intense, bossy and inattentive. Other times she just seemed a little dumb (walking into traffic, her whole trip to Mexico, tattoo, etc). Simon, on the other hand, is shy, smart, gentlemanly and kind. All. The. Time. The worst of him is that he's just SO honest (1millioneyerolls) that he really thinks it would be great to get feedback from an ex (not his!) on what's wrong with... Lisa. (🙄🤯🤬)
There are many moments of classic comedic setups - coincidences, mistaken identity and misunderstandings for days. It keeps the story moving, but a healthy suspension of disbelief is required.
I enjoyed the description of the city and felt like the setting is important to this author. I felt closer to the story picturing the town.
August 5, 2019
Lisa doesn't have the best track record with dating and seems to be attracted to all the wrong guys. Despite her poor luck, she still believes fate has someone wonderful in store for her and maintains hope. Simon has found the love of his life and subsequently lost her. He's just getting by and would prefer his friends didn't meddle in his life. But of course, his friend Will can't help himself and tricks Simon into meeting Lisa for a blind date, courtesy of the local newspaper. Will these two hit it off or be yet another failure in the column's mismatches?
Firstly, I may be a bit biased because I've read nearly everything Matt Dunn has written and always snag his new releases. I adore his wit and humor and he's always been one of my favorite authors. While this is not my favorite of his, mostly because I really didn't care for Lisa, I still really enjoyed it. It was hilarious, awkward and charming, much like life itself. Plus there were some very hopeful and also poignant overtones in this that I vastly appreciated. I'd say Matt hasn't let me down yet and I'll keep dutifully reading his work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Firstly, I may be a bit biased because I've read nearly everything Matt Dunn has written and always snag his new releases. I adore his wit and humor and he's always been one of my favorite authors. While this is not my favorite of his, mostly because I really didn't care for Lisa, I still really enjoyed it. It was hilarious, awkward and charming, much like life itself. Plus there were some very hopeful and also poignant overtones in this that I vastly appreciated. I'd say Matt hasn't let me down yet and I'll keep dutifully reading his work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 27, 2019
This is the first book I’ve read by Matt Dunn and I was not disappointed.
The story only spans over a couple of days, but it didn’t feel like it was going to slowly at all. All the way through I was gripped by the detail and what was going to happen.
I loved this story and how realistic and raw it is. The language, pace and delivery were just right for me.
I would recommend this book and I am 100% on the hunt for more books by Matt.
The story only spans over a couple of days, but it didn’t feel like it was going to slowly at all. All the way through I was gripped by the detail and what was going to happen.
I loved this story and how realistic and raw it is. The language, pace and delivery were just right for me.
I would recommend this book and I am 100% on the hunt for more books by Matt.
August 4, 2019
Sometimes moving on after the end of a relationship is hard, where do you start? Simon and Lisa are set on a blind date by their best friends. They're writing a piece on blind dates for their newspaper and they need guinea pigs.
A nice easy read about love, moving on and friendships.
A nice easy read about love, moving on and friendships.
August 22, 2019
"But life isn't just a moment. It's made up of a past. A future. It's forever."
A super fun and sweet romantic comedy. Doomed to be a disaster of a blind date at first, the two characters show us that nothing comes as expected. Lisa can be annoying at times but I really liked how her character developed the more she spent time with Simon. I enjoyed the alternating POVs and how they provided a little more depth and insight on the characters. The way the story built up and picked up its pace once they get to know each other more was well done. There's a lot of back and forth, misunderstandings and misfortunes, but all of those issues unfolded themselves in a very entertaining way without ever being too much. This is a super quick and easy read, one simply flies through it. It's charming and hilarious at times, gives hope and touches respectfully on the people in the book and their problems and burdens, with witty dialogues and great humor.
"It's possible to do everything right and still lose. That's not a weakness. It's life."
*I received an advance digital copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
A super fun and sweet romantic comedy. Doomed to be a disaster of a blind date at first, the two characters show us that nothing comes as expected. Lisa can be annoying at times but I really liked how her character developed the more she spent time with Simon. I enjoyed the alternating POVs and how they provided a little more depth and insight on the characters. The way the story built up and picked up its pace once they get to know each other more was well done. There's a lot of back and forth, misunderstandings and misfortunes, but all of those issues unfolded themselves in a very entertaining way without ever being too much. This is a super quick and easy read, one simply flies through it. It's charming and hilarious at times, gives hope and touches respectfully on the people in the book and their problems and burdens, with witty dialogues and great humor.
"It's possible to do everything right and still lose. That's not a weakness. It's life."
*I received an advance digital copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
July 21, 2019
Then I Met You by Matt Dunn a four-star read you won’t want to miss. This has such great characters that you won’t be able to stop yourself feeling for them and caring for them, that’s why I think Matt Dunn is a great writer, he writes people you can identify with and understand so much. Throw in some funny, funny stories and you have a great read. My only issue was that it dragged a little in a couple of points, but overall a very well thought out and honestly funny read.
September 5, 2019
Matt Dunn has an amazing knack of being able to write a full length book about a certain event or day, and be so wonderfully engaging you don't even realise until you are half way through that not huge amounts of time pass in the book.
In this instance we follow a blind date between Simon and Lisa, who really don't hit it off initially, in fact i could't help but laugh after their first encounter!
From there were are treated to both sides of the story, with their best friends for moral support, as we see what could be described as the longest blind date in history!
There are arguments, awkward moments, times when the pair hate each other, and we are also given insight into their past relationships to build a fuller picture.
It is such a wonderfully engaging writing style that hooks you in, and I found myself hoping for for a happy outcome of this date of many coincidences and moments where you wonder, if either character may see what is in front of their eyes!
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
In this instance we follow a blind date between Simon and Lisa, who really don't hit it off initially, in fact i could't help but laugh after their first encounter!
From there were are treated to both sides of the story, with their best friends for moral support, as we see what could be described as the longest blind date in history!
There are arguments, awkward moments, times when the pair hate each other, and we are also given insight into their past relationships to build a fuller picture.
It is such a wonderfully engaging writing style that hooks you in, and I found myself hoping for for a happy outcome of this date of many coincidences and moments where you wonder, if either character may see what is in front of their eyes!
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
February 5, 2020
I've read probably 300 romance novels in the past six months and this is the first one where I hoped the characters would NOT get together. These two are AWFUL together and Lisa is just awful, period. While I agree that Simon needed to "get back out there" and I'd even be okay with a rebound romance between these two that ended in a friendship and both of them moving on to other people, I HATE these two together.
Also, both of their friends are terrible and annoying.
Overall, good story concept and Simon was a decent character. Everyone else was garbage.
Also, both of their friends are terrible and annoying.
Overall, good story concept and Simon was a decent character. Everyone else was garbage.
September 7, 2019
A cute RomCom showing how life doesn't stop moving, and you have to go along with it.
Wish the girl didn't fall under the typical flighty, easily mad stereotype, but Matt Dunn has done a wonderful job with this one.
Wish the girl didn't fall under the typical flighty, easily mad stereotype, but Matt Dunn has done a wonderful job with this one.
September 27, 2022
Cute chick-lit / rom-com nicely narrated on audio. The male narrator was excellent, the female narrator was good especially if I turned the speed up on her narration just a tiny bit.
August 8, 2019
I’m a big fan of Matt Dunn so was very excited to read his next offering.
Simon has been single for 2 years much to the frustration of his best friend Will. Lisa has been unlucky in love and her best friend Jess is wanting to help. Jess and Will are dating and work for the local paper so what better way to help their friends than to set them up on a blind date for the purpose of writing an article about it.
This was a funny story that had me laughing out loud but was also quite poignant too. I was cheering Simon on and hoping for a happy ending for him. Not Matt Dunn’s best book but a good read none the less.
Simon has been single for 2 years much to the frustration of his best friend Will. Lisa has been unlucky in love and her best friend Jess is wanting to help. Jess and Will are dating and work for the local paper so what better way to help their friends than to set them up on a blind date for the purpose of writing an article about it.
This was a funny story that had me laughing out loud but was also quite poignant too. I was cheering Simon on and hoping for a happy ending for him. Not Matt Dunn’s best book but a good read none the less.
August 1, 2019
Lisa has agreed to go on a blind date, arranged by her local paper. Simon agreed to meet his best friend Will for lunch, only to be surprised that he's actually being set up with Lisa.
This book takes place over the course of 24-30 hours, following Lisa and Simon through their date and all its highs and lows.
Cute, fun, fast read. Not sure I've ever read a rom-com book, but this was adorable. I'd totally watch the movie.
This book takes place over the course of 24-30 hours, following Lisa and Simon through their date and all its highs and lows.
Cute, fun, fast read. Not sure I've ever read a rom-com book, but this was adorable. I'd totally watch the movie.
July 25, 2019
Then I Met You by Matt Dunn is a contemporary love story that unfolds over the course of a single weekend. I always leap at the chance to read a romance that is told from the male perspective, as this genre seems to be dominated by the female voice.
Simon has lost the love of his life and is uninterested in throwing himself back into the dating scene. He reluctantly agrees to join the charismatic and outspoken Lisa for a single drink as part of a blind date feature for the local paper. Both Simon and Lisa are intriguing characters, each bringing their significant emotional baggage along with them to the meeting, and their bantering is both witty and delightfully snarky.
This is a fun read that will have you smiling and, quite possibly, relating to this run through the gauntlet of modern love. Although it is somewhat predictable, this is an enjoyable read that is worth a look.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC.
Simon has lost the love of his life and is uninterested in throwing himself back into the dating scene. He reluctantly agrees to join the charismatic and outspoken Lisa for a single drink as part of a blind date feature for the local paper. Both Simon and Lisa are intriguing characters, each bringing their significant emotional baggage along with them to the meeting, and their bantering is both witty and delightfully snarky.
This is a fun read that will have you smiling and, quite possibly, relating to this run through the gauntlet of modern love. Although it is somewhat predictable, this is an enjoyable read that is worth a look.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC.
March 5, 2020
3,5 Stars
Lisa and Simon have been set up by friends for a date, and simultanously participate in the "Blind Date" column of the local paper that both friends work for. The bit with the paper I found a bit silly (especially when they devote so much time to fill out the questionaire), but the rest was quite enjoyable.
I very much liked the idea that this book takes place over a single weekend. It's kind of like "Before Sunrise" where a couple meets and gets to know each other over the next couple of hours. It also means that the story is very heavy on dialogue. Most of the time this was humorous and nice to read, but towards the end it also dragged on a bit and I was urging them to come to an end.
Lisa and Simon have been set up by friends for a date, and simultanously participate in the "Blind Date" column of the local paper that both friends work for. The bit with the paper I found a bit silly (especially when they devote so much time to fill out the questionaire), but the rest was quite enjoyable.
I very much liked the idea that this book takes place over a single weekend. It's kind of like "Before Sunrise" where a couple meets and gets to know each other over the next couple of hours. It also means that the story is very heavy on dialogue. Most of the time this was humorous and nice to read, but towards the end it also dragged on a bit and I was urging them to come to an end.
July 28, 2020
Repetitive
This story is painful to read. It contradicts itself, repeats itself and needs to end much, much more quickly. It is difficult to believe the problem or the motivation of either character even though the author constantly spells it out. I found myself skimming a lot of it just so I could get to the point of it all.
This story is painful to read. It contradicts itself, repeats itself and needs to end much, much more quickly. It is difficult to believe the problem or the motivation of either character even though the author constantly spells it out. I found myself skimming a lot of it just so I could get to the point of it all.
March 29, 2020
BORING
August 8, 2019
Simon lost Alice 2 years ago and hasn't considered "getting back in the saddle" since. Lisa has dated wrong guy after wrong guy, always having to bend over backwards to impress them and losing herself in the process. Their best friends set them up on a blind date that goes on to last over 24 hours. They go from hating each other to pretty alright within the 24+ hours.
Whilst there were a few funny moments that I chuckled out loud about, this was just okay for me. I didn't find Lisa particularly likeable. She needed to figure herself out before trying to date again so that fact that she was (pretty desperately) hoping to meet her true love on a blind date while she was still fresh from her therapy holiday where she discovered she needed to sort out her own priorities just really felt like it was poor timing and much too soon. I can jump to conclusions with the best of people, but Lisa just took that too far. Honestly, she was not ready to be in a relationship if she can't control her behaviour. When something had literally nothing to do with her she was spastic about it being about her and when she had done something wrong how could Simon possibly consider this her fault? It was too much for me.
Simon was a decent guy making the best of a situation he was forced into and he dealt with a basket case quite well and actually came to like her. I tip my hat to him for pushing through it. I liked that after she kept making a run for things he did finally just let her go. I did not want him to be a pushover chasing after her and he didn't so I'm very happy about that. I think he was actually a great character with real emotions having his previous relationship end quite traumatically. I was happy when his realisation hit that he needed to be wary of trying to compare future relationships to his perfect one with Alice because that relationship was still relatively new and it might not have ended up being the perfect relationship. Good for him. He could actually think and process adult thoughts.
So, this was just okay for me - didn't dislike it but didn't really like it either. Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the opportunity to review this book.
Whilst there were a few funny moments that I chuckled out loud about, this was just okay for me. I didn't find Lisa particularly likeable. She needed to figure herself out before trying to date again so that fact that she was (pretty desperately) hoping to meet her true love on a blind date while she was still fresh from her therapy holiday where she discovered she needed to sort out her own priorities just really felt like it was poor timing and much too soon. I can jump to conclusions with the best of people, but Lisa just took that too far. Honestly, she was not ready to be in a relationship if she can't control her behaviour. When something had literally nothing to do with her she was spastic about it being about her and when she had done something wrong how could Simon possibly consider this her fault? It was too much for me.
Simon was a decent guy making the best of a situation he was forced into and he dealt with a basket case quite well and actually came to like her. I tip my hat to him for pushing through it. I liked that after she kept making a run for things he did finally just let her go. I did not want him to be a pushover chasing after her and he didn't so I'm very happy about that. I think he was actually a great character with real emotions having his previous relationship end quite traumatically. I was happy when his realisation hit that he needed to be wary of trying to compare future relationships to his perfect one with Alice because that relationship was still relatively new and it might not have ended up being the perfect relationship. Good for him. He could actually think and process adult thoughts.
So, this was just okay for me - didn't dislike it but didn't really like it either. Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the opportunity to review this book.
August 11, 2019
Disclaimer: I was provided with a Digital ARC for an honest review by Netgalley
Then I Met You by Matt Dunn was somewhat unexpected. I went in expecting a long love story that spans across years and talks about relationships at large but here we have a book that lasts a little over 24 hrs and wraps up the beautiful story that is literally described by the title. To be able to read the title as a dialogue in the book never gets old. Just love it.
Simon Martin hasn't dated in two years and isn't eager on finding his 'the one' because he already had her and lost her, Lisa Harrod, on the other hand after a serious of bad relationships and an awful breakup two months ago is willing to do to any lengths to find her 'the one' which includes going on a blind date so that her friend could amp her up in the local paper to get more dates.
What happens when they are forced together for two hours date which turns into a twenty-four-hour date, that's the story. Reading how Simon turns from 'I don't want to look at another women' to being influenced by Lisa into moving on is rollercoaster (pun intended). The two people perspective with a lot of internal monologues were not easy to get through however they don't at all feel out of place they actually add character.
There have been times where I though that the characters don't just seem right because Lisa at times just comes off and dumb and well men's idea of a girl who is complicated because she just doesn't get it as she is stupid and Simon as the gentleman who could do nothing wrong because she is so sweet and bruiting over his dead ex. But then I decided to look at them just as characters and not a stereotype written by a man.
Reading a book which is based out of US is usual for me and Then I Met You at even corner gave me the impression without screaming that it was based in the UK which was a very fresh experience. Matt Dunn brings a fresh take to something disastrous that makes you life trait and the humor that make along with it made me laugh out in public even in the most awkward situations.
This is a carefree story with love and a change that will make anyone feel refreshed. I would definitely recommend it and the bright cover is not the only reason for it.
Then I Met You by Matt Dunn was somewhat unexpected. I went in expecting a long love story that spans across years and talks about relationships at large but here we have a book that lasts a little over 24 hrs and wraps up the beautiful story that is literally described by the title. To be able to read the title as a dialogue in the book never gets old. Just love it.
Simon Martin hasn't dated in two years and isn't eager on finding his 'the one' because he already had her and lost her, Lisa Harrod, on the other hand after a serious of bad relationships and an awful breakup two months ago is willing to do to any lengths to find her 'the one' which includes going on a blind date so that her friend could amp her up in the local paper to get more dates.
What happens when they are forced together for two hours date which turns into a twenty-four-hour date, that's the story. Reading how Simon turns from 'I don't want to look at another women' to being influenced by Lisa into moving on is rollercoaster (pun intended). The two people perspective with a lot of internal monologues were not easy to get through however they don't at all feel out of place they actually add character.
There have been times where I though that the characters don't just seem right because Lisa at times just comes off and dumb and well men's idea of a girl who is complicated because she just doesn't get it as she is stupid and Simon as the gentleman who could do nothing wrong because she is so sweet and bruiting over his dead ex. But then I decided to look at them just as characters and not a stereotype written by a man.
Reading a book which is based out of US is usual for me and Then I Met You at even corner gave me the impression without screaming that it was based in the UK which was a very fresh experience. Matt Dunn brings a fresh take to something disastrous that makes you life trait and the humor that make along with it made me laugh out in public even in the most awkward situations.
This is a carefree story with love and a change that will make anyone feel refreshed. I would definitely recommend it and the bright cover is not the only reason for it.
September 27, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book which was a really fast read, it wasn't surprising considering it is covering a story about a date which took place over a 2 day period.
It captured the hero story line well with the MCs changing and growing through their actions, it was a cliffhanger as I hope they end up together or at least continue to learn and grow and maybe even stay friends which they seemed to do really well as compared to dating.
When Chris said treat 'em mean, keep 'em keen, I felt like I needed to take a long ❄ shower
Turns out Simon's hesitations about starting a relationship and being sexual with someone new worked in both their favors, it also brought to light the insecurities Lisa had continuously ignored or shoved aside.
I loved the conversation Simon had with the old man who told him that 1 is the loneliest number, side note he learnt this just when he was passing Lisa while she had erroneously called the bus.
The author pulled the title right from the conversation at the end of the book...
Lisa's tattoo saying carpet diem was so awesome! Though in hind sight, why do people drink and get tattoos in languages they don't speak 🤦🏻♀️
It captured the hero story line well with the MCs changing and growing through their actions, it was a cliffhanger as I hope they end up together or at least continue to learn and grow and maybe even stay friends which they seemed to do really well as compared to dating.
Top of mind lessons:
Sometimes people are holding in so much pain and yet we judge them quickly and harshly when we meet them. Like how Lisa saw and drew Simon's sadness in his eyes and "essence" (a thing they did a lot of in the book - air quotes) but couldn't put her finger on it until someone else said it.
I liked the various descriptions Simon gave to explain his grieving journey - he described it as a tsunami that swept everything away and made him scared to try again; he also described it as a series of mountains he constantly had to climb, they grew taller each time and he hoped he had the strength to get to the top of each consecutive one; his final description was the hole left by bereavement that you just had to build his life around instead of filling.
When Chris said treat 'em mean, keep 'em keen, I felt like I needed to take a long ❄ shower
Turns out Simon's hesitations about starting a relationship and being sexual with someone new worked in both their favors, it also brought to light the insecurities Lisa had continuously ignored or shoved aside.
I loved the conversation Simon had with the old man who told him that 1 is the loneliest number, side note he learnt this just when he was passing Lisa while she had erroneously called the bus.
The author pulled the title right from the conversation at the end of the book...
Lisa's tattoo saying carpet diem was so awesome! Though in hind sight, why do people drink and get tattoos in languages they don't speak 🤦🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2019
Oh I really, really wanted to like this book. On paper, it had a lot going for it, but sadly, the reality was way-off.
Personally, I love the idea of a date that starts badly, gets worse and, for some reason, fate keeps them trudging through together … but, it doesn’t work. This isn’t about believability so much, as that really you need a longer time period for your characters to develop. Yes, people change, and they learn things and they want to evolve, but not in 24 hours. So, it just doesn’t work.
What I actually ended up feeling was that Lisa was an absolute pain in the ass. I actually hated her in the end. She’s egotistical, pathetic, high-maintenance in extreme in her reactions. Other than the fact she’s attractive (as we’re told far more than necessary) she has NO redeeming qualities. Why on earth anyone would allow themselves to be stuck on a date with her for 24 hours is beyond me. I don’t care how much of a gentleman you are.
Which brings me to Simon, who, whilst handling his grief the best way he knows how, is an absolute sucker for being railroaded by the clingy, neurotic mess that is Lisa.
None of it made any sense!
Finally, Dunn tried too hard to be funny at times. This was not laugh out loud. It was barely chuckle quietly. The constant attempts at jokes, and puns was distracting and tiresome. Essentially it was packed full of Dad jokes, and I half expected a nudge nudge, wink wink at the end of every other sentence.
My cringe gland definitely had to work over time. Three times I marked this down as a Did Not Finish, then found myself agonising over whether it would count as a read, so pushed through. Glad I did, as I can officially say I’ve completed by Reading Challenge for the year, but it totally wasn’t work it.
Personally, I love the idea of a date that starts badly, gets worse and, for some reason, fate keeps them trudging through together … but, it doesn’t work. This isn’t about believability so much, as that really you need a longer time period for your characters to develop. Yes, people change, and they learn things and they want to evolve, but not in 24 hours. So, it just doesn’t work.
What I actually ended up feeling was that Lisa was an absolute pain in the ass. I actually hated her in the end. She’s egotistical, pathetic, high-maintenance in extreme in her reactions. Other than the fact she’s attractive (as we’re told far more than necessary) she has NO redeeming qualities. Why on earth anyone would allow themselves to be stuck on a date with her for 24 hours is beyond me. I don’t care how much of a gentleman you are.
Which brings me to Simon, who, whilst handling his grief the best way he knows how, is an absolute sucker for being railroaded by the clingy, neurotic mess that is Lisa.
None of it made any sense!
Finally, Dunn tried too hard to be funny at times. This was not laugh out loud. It was barely chuckle quietly. The constant attempts at jokes, and puns was distracting and tiresome. Essentially it was packed full of Dad jokes, and I half expected a nudge nudge, wink wink at the end of every other sentence.
My cringe gland definitely had to work over time. Three times I marked this down as a Did Not Finish, then found myself agonising over whether it would count as a read, so pushed through. Glad I did, as I can officially say I’ve completed by Reading Challenge for the year, but it totally wasn’t work it.
August 13, 2019
London, England. Primark restaurant. Will was making it a point to Simon Martin (31, barista) he needed to move on Alice (Simon’s ex-GF) wasn’t coming back.
Seafront Street Food. Simon met Lisa Harrod (31, Gazette Blind Date columnist) for their blind date.
It went as expected. Formalities/awkwardness were out of the way.
Turner Centre art gallery. Simon & Lisa were enjoying the exhibits along with the rest of the group.
Amusement Park. Simon & Lisa were going to ride the Dreamcatcher.
How did their evening turn out?
Warning: This book contains adult content, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written romance book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great romance movie, or better yet a mini TV series. It wasn’t juicy enough for me so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Lake Union Publishing; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Seafront Street Food. Simon met Lisa Harrod (31, Gazette Blind Date columnist) for their blind date.
It went as expected. Formalities/awkwardness were out of the way.
Turner Centre art gallery. Simon & Lisa were enjoying the exhibits along with the rest of the group.
Amusement Park. Simon & Lisa were going to ride the Dreamcatcher.
How did their evening turn out?
Warning: This book contains adult content, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written romance book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great romance movie, or better yet a mini TV series. It wasn’t juicy enough for me so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Lake Union Publishing; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
July 20, 2019
I have read several books by Matt Dunn before and enjoyed his light hearted "guy lit" approach to the genre. "Then I Met You" does not disappoint, it does exactly what you expect, how you expect and when you expect. and I LOVED it! Being predictable doesn't take away from the enjoyment of reading this "fate brought us together and won't let us part despite the numerous mishaps along the way" book.
Lisa and Simon are set up on a blind date that goes horribly wrong. It is a book of self-exploration, relationship analysis, grief and plain good old fashioned rom-com. It was deliciously easy to read (I stayed up half the night with my son snoring next to me reading "just one more chapter" on the kindle!)
I will say I found Lisa a little whiny by the end but I think the author does a good job of showing how people can over react, or allow their past to affect the current relationships (this being true with Simon too)
There is enough depth in each of the characters to make them likeable without dragging away from the intended light hearted humour, the prose is easy and fast past - it will make a great summer read.
Due for publication on 6th August and I'd say - grab a copy, if you like chit-lit you won't be disappointed! 4/5
Thanks to NetGalley and Matt Dun for the advanced copy in return for an honest review which will be published on my blog https://sahughes1404.wixsite.com/both...
Lisa and Simon are set up on a blind date that goes horribly wrong. It is a book of self-exploration, relationship analysis, grief and plain good old fashioned rom-com. It was deliciously easy to read (I stayed up half the night with my son snoring next to me reading "just one more chapter" on the kindle!)
I will say I found Lisa a little whiny by the end but I think the author does a good job of showing how people can over react, or allow their past to affect the current relationships (this being true with Simon too)
There is enough depth in each of the characters to make them likeable without dragging away from the intended light hearted humour, the prose is easy and fast past - it will make a great summer read.
Due for publication on 6th August and I'd say - grab a copy, if you like chit-lit you won't be disappointed! 4/5
Thanks to NetGalley and Matt Dun for the advanced copy in return for an honest review which will be published on my blog https://sahughes1404.wixsite.com/both...
July 25, 2019
Jess works at a newspaper called The Gazette on a feature that matches people up on blind dates and then follows up with them afterwards to see how it goes. Lisa is Jess' friend and agrees to go on one of the dates. She has a history of dating losers who dump her and she's optimistically still looking for "the one".
Simon is still grieving over the loss of his relationship with Alice two years ago and is happy being alone. Will is his best friend and Jess' boyfriend. Will tricks Simon into the blind date with Jess and Will has no choice but to go through with it.
Things don't go well with between Lisa and Simon right from the start ... they are too different and want different things. But for the sake of Jess' column, they do a redo of the date within hours, courtesy of Jess' corporate credit card.
I've read many books by this author and thought it was okay. I usually find his books humourous but I thought this one was a bit of downer. I found Lisa was so desperate to find someone and put up with losers. I didn't find her overly likable. Simon was still trying to get over his relationship with Alice and wasn't overly enthusiastic to be stuck on a date with Lisa. He seemed to have a dry sense of humour.
It was written in third person perspective from Lisa and Simon's points of view. The story happens over 24 hours. As a head's up, there is some swearing.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2019/07...
Simon is still grieving over the loss of his relationship with Alice two years ago and is happy being alone. Will is his best friend and Jess' boyfriend. Will tricks Simon into the blind date with Jess and Will has no choice but to go through with it.
Things don't go well with between Lisa and Simon right from the start ... they are too different and want different things. But for the sake of Jess' column, they do a redo of the date within hours, courtesy of Jess' corporate credit card.
I've read many books by this author and thought it was okay. I usually find his books humourous but I thought this one was a bit of downer. I found Lisa was so desperate to find someone and put up with losers. I didn't find her overly likable. Simon was still trying to get over his relationship with Alice and wasn't overly enthusiastic to be stuck on a date with Lisa. He seemed to have a dry sense of humour.
It was written in third person perspective from Lisa and Simon's points of view. The story happens over 24 hours. As a head's up, there is some swearing.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2019/07...
July 11, 2019
It takes great skills and competence to treat such tragic topics with so much lightness and accompanying respect. What we have here is undoubtedly a romantic comedy with a light tone but with a very deep meaning. It was very easy to identify with both characters, two 'damaged' persons ( by the past, by themselves) like many. The story would have provided great dramatic, tragic material yet you do smile a lot while reading on as is customary in Matt Dunn's novels. I was particularly impressed by the very short timeframe of a couple of days that had worried me at the beginning (I was afraid it would be too heavy, too much, in a too short time) and yet was pivotal for the main message of hope and optimism that we get in the end. The double POV works perfectly, too. I found it engaging and entertaining and extremely uplifting. Top dialogues, funny jokes and brilliant puns: Matt Dunn never fails to delight us. Absolutely recommended.
I had the great pleasure to be able to read this book through NetGalley, before it was published. Many thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley.
#ThenIMetYou #NetGalley
I had the great pleasure to be able to read this book through NetGalley, before it was published. Many thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley.
#ThenIMetYou #NetGalley
August 11, 2019
NOTE: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.
I really wanted to love this book. It had a lot going for it. I love a good rom-com and this had a lot of potential.
Wish List Items I Didn't Get:
- A story that takes places over a period of time long enough for character development to be believable. No one dramatically changes in 24 hours outside of extreme trauma. PLUS, if they'd had a disaster of a first encounter, then been tricked into a blind date a week later, then forced on a second date a week after that, etc., events would played more into the author's ham-fisted "fate" theory.
- Less Tell and more Show, which would have required item A as well. Simon tells us (ad freaking nauseum) how Not Over Alice he is, but we never see evidence of that except for how often he tells us.
- Less clichéd "Over-reacting Woman Syndrome" from Lisa. The author has this chick jumping to conclusions like it's an Olympic sport and she's training for gold.
- In a copy editorial note, less parenthetical asides (especially those with dashed asides - especially especially those with nested asides).
I really wanted to love this book. It had a lot going for it. I love a good rom-com and this had a lot of potential.
Wish List Items I Didn't Get:
- A story that takes places over a period of time long enough for character development to be believable. No one dramatically changes in 24 hours outside of extreme trauma. PLUS, if they'd had a disaster of a first encounter, then been tricked into a blind date a week later, then forced on a second date a week after that, etc., events would played more into the author's ham-fisted "fate" theory.
- Less Tell and more Show, which would have required item A as well. Simon tells us (ad freaking nauseum) how Not Over Alice he is, but we never see evidence of that except for how often he tells us.
- Less clichéd "Over-reacting Woman Syndrome" from Lisa. The author has this chick jumping to conclusions like it's an Olympic sport and she's training for gold.
- In a copy editorial note, less parenthetical asides (especially those with dashed asides - especially especially those with nested asides).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2019
3.5 stars
The synopsis for Then I Met You really drew me in, it sounded fun, cute and charming and I love a good romcom. There were entertaining moments, exasperating moments and I was pleasantly surprised by the hidden depth to this story as we got to know about events that led to Lisa and Simon agreeing to go on a blind date. I loved how the dynamics and chemistry between Lisa and Simon changed throughout the course of this book.
I enjoyed that a lot happened during their blind date, I was entertained and invested in what would eventuate between the two. I much enjoyed the second half of the book however, as I felt the pacing improved and the story flowed a lot better. In the first half of the book there was constant dialogue between the two which because repetitive and dragged on a little bit that I ended up skipping lines here and there.
Overall Then I Met You was an an enjoyable, light and easy read and I appreciate Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for providing a copy for review.
The synopsis for Then I Met You really drew me in, it sounded fun, cute and charming and I love a good romcom. There were entertaining moments, exasperating moments and I was pleasantly surprised by the hidden depth to this story as we got to know about events that led to Lisa and Simon agreeing to go on a blind date. I loved how the dynamics and chemistry between Lisa and Simon changed throughout the course of this book.
I enjoyed that a lot happened during their blind date, I was entertained and invested in what would eventuate between the two. I much enjoyed the second half of the book however, as I felt the pacing improved and the story flowed a lot better. In the first half of the book there was constant dialogue between the two which because repetitive and dragged on a little bit that I ended up skipping lines here and there.
Overall Then I Met You was an an enjoyable, light and easy read and I appreciate Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for providing a copy for review.
March 23, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️(3/5) Then I Met You by Matt Dunn
*****
Lisa and Simon both meet each other courtesy of a blind date put together by the local newspaper. Despite agreeing that this wasn’t going to work out, the two are thrown together in various circumstances. Are these just coincidences or does fate have a role to play in all of this
*****
This was a fast read for me...I read it in just over two days. I was hooked and invested in the relationship between Lisa and Simon but what was really off putting was Lisa’s character. She was unreasonable, jumping to conclusions and her inner monologues were eye roll worthy. I’ve not met a character that I’ve disliked so heavily. It definitely feels like the author has played on stereotypes of insecure women to base the character of Lisa. On the other hand, Simon was a more rounded character with issues of his own but still likeable .Quite sad because I did like the writing and the story was great but the fact that one of the main characters was an extreme pain in my ass can’t make up for it.
*****
*****
Lisa and Simon both meet each other courtesy of a blind date put together by the local newspaper. Despite agreeing that this wasn’t going to work out, the two are thrown together in various circumstances. Are these just coincidences or does fate have a role to play in all of this
*****
This was a fast read for me...I read it in just over two days. I was hooked and invested in the relationship between Lisa and Simon but what was really off putting was Lisa’s character. She was unreasonable, jumping to conclusions and her inner monologues were eye roll worthy. I’ve not met a character that I’ve disliked so heavily. It definitely feels like the author has played on stereotypes of insecure women to base the character of Lisa. On the other hand, Simon was a more rounded character with issues of his own but still likeable .Quite sad because I did like the writing and the story was great but the fact that one of the main characters was an extreme pain in my ass can’t make up for it.
*****
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