A review by natashaleighton_
Love at First Flight by Jo Watson

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Swoon-worthy, humour-filled and beautifully heartfelt—I literally couldn’t put this down! 

Jo Watson’s newest Rom-Com which follows an autistic air traffic controller and a pilot who, (after months of only speaking over intercom) find themselves in a serendipitous meet cute that has them making a pact to fake date. 

However it doesn’t take long before real feelings start to interfere with Pippa’s plans, which has her questioning whether the fake relationship she wanted could ever truly be enough.

I read and loved Watson’s previous novel, (What Happens on Vacation) last year and absolutely loved it so was incredibly eager to read her newest book, which explores friendship, identity and love on the spectrum — and I’m glad to say it (unsurprisingly) lived up to all my expectations. 

I was initially intrigued by the premise and was genuinely floored by how much I loved the romance. Sizzlingly spectacular and dripping with sexual tension, Pippa and Andrew’s blossoming relationship was well paced, with the right amount of tension to keep all us hopeless romantics hooked.

Pippa, our neurodivergent and in depth  protagonist was a delightfully endearing and straightforward character who I absolutely adored! Her insightful and unique observations (which do lead to some very sweet, yet humorous interactions) had me fully invested and rooting for her pretty early on *cough* the mermaid scene *cough*.

But her vulnerabilities (stemming from her self consciousness surrounding being on the spectrum) and journey into learning to embrace and celebrate them was what really had me hooked! 

Though, I was also rooting for Andrew, whose adoration of (and feelings for) Pippa are instantly noticeable, (even before their IRL encounter.) Especially as we watch his patient understanding, cinnamon roll- esque kindness and dedication to getting to know Pippa at her own pace; allowing her to call the shots and decide how far she was comfortable going. 

I myself am not on the spectrum, but I do have family members who are, which made the glimpse we get into the realities of living with autism all the more impactful for me—as Pippa’s reactions, daily rituals and methods of managing overstimulation were all a pretty familiar sight. 

Obviously everyone’s experiences on the spectrum are different so not everyone will connect with Pippa and her experiences, but I loved that Jo Watson chose to share her own experiences (through PIppa) of having autism. It definitely felt a little more personal than her other novels, yet still captured the heart-stoppingly sexy romance Watson is known for. 

Overall, a fun and engaging Rom-com that fans of friends to lovers or fake dating tropes should consider checking out.

Also, thank you to Felicia and Headline Eternal for the finished copy. 
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