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rfwads's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
4.0
What I liked about Meant to Be:
Meant to Be by Emily Giffin is a light, breezy, beachy type read that doesn't disappoint. The build-up between Joe and Cate was fantastic, and I loved how the story is loosely based on the love story of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. I was so engrossed in the novel that I prolonged finishing it because I didn't want it to end. The main characters, Cate Cooper and Joe Kingsley are endearing and not at all shallow or foolish. The book delves into heavy subjects such as domestic violence, trauma, and death, offering a vivid insight into the differences between Cate and Joe's upbringings. Their fairy tale romance was beautifully portrayed, and the supporting characters were just as captivating. Spanning several years, and told from both Cate's and Joe's perspectives, the story felt like an epic love tale about fate and timing. Both Cate and Joe were complex and well-drawn, and I was completely caught up in their journey, hanging on to every word.
What I disliked about Meant to Be:
The only thing I disliked about Meant to Be was the ending—I loved Cate and Joe's story so much that I needed more of it. I'd be 100% okay with a sequel.
What I think would have made Meant to Be better:
As mentioned above, the only thing that I disliked and would change about Meant to Be was the ending. It felt a bit abrupt and the story wrapped up too quickly. I would have been okay with another 100+ pages expanding on their love story. If Emily ever decides to write a sequel, I will be the first in line to read it.
Would I recommend Meant to Be by Emily Giffin:
I would absolutely recommend Meant to Be by Emily Giffin. The book is an engaging, emotional, and a beautifully written love story that captivated me from start to finish.
****
The Kingsley family, practically American royalty, renowned for their military heroics, political service, and elegance. When Joseph S. Kingsley III was born in 1960, he inherited the weight of his family and father's legacy. Despite his striking looks and charisma, Joe struggles to meet his mother's and the nation's expectations, his reckless nature complicating matters. Cate, in stark contrast, is raised by her single mother. She sees modeling as her escape from poverty and her abusive stepfather. When Joe and Cate's paths cross, their immediate connection is overshadowed by the constant scrutiny surrounding Joe. As they navigate their relationship, tragedy strikes, echoing the misfortunes of Joe's family history.
Meant to Be by Emily Giffin is a light, breezy, beachy type read that doesn't disappoint. The build-up between Joe and Cate was fantastic, and I loved how the story is loosely based on the love story of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. I was so engrossed in the novel that I prolonged finishing it because I didn't want it to end. The main characters, Cate Cooper and Joe Kingsley are endearing and not at all shallow or foolish. The book delves into heavy subjects such as domestic violence, trauma, and death, offering a vivid insight into the differences between Cate and Joe's upbringings. Their fairy tale romance was beautifully portrayed, and the supporting characters were just as captivating. Spanning several years, and told from both Cate's and Joe's perspectives, the story felt like an epic love tale about fate and timing. Both Cate and Joe were complex and well-drawn, and I was completely caught up in their journey, hanging on to every word.
What I disliked about Meant to Be:
The only thing I disliked about Meant to Be was the ending—I loved Cate and Joe's story so much that I needed more of it. I'd be 100% okay with a sequel.
What I think would have made Meant to Be better:
As mentioned above, the only thing that I disliked and would change about Meant to Be was the ending. It felt a bit abrupt and the story wrapped up too quickly. I would have been okay with another 100+ pages expanding on their love story. If Emily ever decides to write a sequel, I will be the first in line to read it.
Would I recommend Meant to Be by Emily Giffin:
I would absolutely recommend Meant to Be by Emily Giffin. The book is an engaging, emotional, and a beautifully written love story that captivated me from start to finish.
****
The Kingsley family, practically American royalty, renowned for their military heroics, political service, and elegance. When Joseph S. Kingsley III was born in 1960, he inherited the weight of his family and father's legacy. Despite his striking looks and charisma, Joe struggles to meet his mother's and the nation's expectations, his reckless nature complicating matters. Cate, in stark contrast, is raised by her single mother. She sees modeling as her escape from poverty and her abusive stepfather. When Joe and Cate's paths cross, their immediate connection is overshadowed by the constant scrutiny surrounding Joe. As they navigate their relationship, tragedy strikes, echoing the misfortunes of Joe's family history.
shannonohannessian's review against another edition
1.0
The characters in this one were SO unlikable.
annaeslane's review against another edition
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
amanda_b's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
3.75
vtsarahd's review against another edition
3.0
Not my favorite Emily Giffin. The “what if” premise behind the story is intriguing.
anyawalker's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
spatterson12's review against another edition
5.0
I LOVED this book. I hate that I waited so long to read it, but it was the perfect combination of pop culture, history, and drama. I would love if this was adapted for screen.
I really didn’t know too much about JFK Jr and Carolyn so it was fun reading chapters then googling the real-life situations to compare.
I really didn’t know too much about JFK Jr and Carolyn so it was fun reading chapters then googling the real-life situations to compare.