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Meant to Be
The Kingsley family is practically American royalty, beloved for their military heroics, political service, and unmatched elegance. When Joseph S. Kingsley III is born in 1960, he inherits the weight of that legacy. Growing up with all the Kingsley looks and charisma, Joe should have no problem taking up the mantle after his father’s untimely death. But he is also a little bit reckless, and can’t seem to figure out how to channel the expectations of an entire country.
No one ever expected anything of Cate, on the other hand. She, too, grew up in a single-parent household—just her and her mom scraping by in their small apartment. As a teenager, though, Cate is discovered for her looks. Modeling may be her only ticket out of the cycle of disappointment that her mother has always inhabited. Before too long, her face is everywhere, though she is always aware that she’d be a pariah in her social circles if anyone knew her true story.
When Joe and Cate’s paths cross, their connection is instant. What remains to be seen is whether their relationship will survive the glare of the spotlight that follows Joe everywhere. And just as they find themselves in the make-or-break moment, the tragedy that seems to run in Joe’s family right alongside all that privilege will repeat itself.
In a beautifully written novel that recaptures a gilded moment in American history, Emily Giffin tells a story of a love that may or may not have the power to transcend circumstances that seem arrayed against it... and the difficulty of finding your way to the place you belong.
No one ever expected anything of Cate, on the other hand. She, too, grew up in a single-parent household—just her and her mom scraping by in their small apartment. As a teenager, though, Cate is discovered for her looks. Modeling may be her only ticket out of the cycle of disappointment that her mother has always inhabited. Before too long, her face is everywhere, though she is always aware that she’d be a pariah in her social circles if anyone knew her true story.
When Joe and Cate’s paths cross, their connection is instant. What remains to be seen is whether their relationship will survive the glare of the spotlight that follows Joe everywhere. And just as they find themselves in the make-or-break moment, the tragedy that seems to run in Joe’s family right alongside all that privilege will repeat itself.
In a beautifully written novel that recaptures a gilded moment in American history, Emily Giffin tells a story of a love that may or may not have the power to transcend circumstances that seem arrayed against it... and the difficulty of finding your way to the place you belong.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published May 31, 2022
About the author
Emily Giffin
41 books23.2k followersEMILY GIFFIN is a graduate of Wake Forest University and the University of Virginia School of Law. The #1 New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, Baby Proof, Love the One You're With, Heart of the Matter, Where We Belong, The One & Only, First Comes Love, All We Ever Wanted, The Lies That Bind, and the recently released Meant to Be, she currently lives in Atlanta with her family.
Website: www.emilygiffin.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EmilyGiffinFans
Twitter: https://twitter.com/emilygiffin
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/emilygiffina...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,752 reviews
June 6, 2022
definitely an unexpected surprise as to how much i really enjoyed this.
obviously, being described as american royalty, i knew some of the characters would be kennedy-esque. but i honestly had no idea the story is actually loosely based off of the relationship of JFK jr and carolyn bessette until after reading this. i know nothing about them, so i think that helped me see this this as fresh story. for those who are familiar with their lives, you might find this a bit unoriginal.
regardless, im always a sucker for the whole ‘star-crossed lovers’ trope. its always so encouraging to read about characters who come from completely different backgrounds, which in most cases would prevent them from being together, but seeing them overcome those obstacles and letting love be enough.
this is a sweet, charming, and the perfect summer read - especially if you enjoy the kennedy family!
↠ 4.5 stars
obviously, being described as american royalty, i knew some of the characters would be kennedy-esque. but i honestly had no idea the story is actually loosely based off of the relationship of JFK jr and carolyn bessette until after reading this. i know nothing about them, so i think that helped me see this this as fresh story. for those who are familiar with their lives, you might find this a bit unoriginal.
regardless, im always a sucker for the whole ‘star-crossed lovers’ trope. its always so encouraging to read about characters who come from completely different backgrounds, which in most cases would prevent them from being together, but seeing them overcome those obstacles and letting love be enough.
this is a sweet, charming, and the perfect summer read - especially if you enjoy the kennedy family!
↠ 4.5 stars
May 31, 2022
Camelot Revised
3.5 stars
Meant To Be is a love story/character study about the son of American royalty and the model who captures his heart. Loosely based on the relationship between JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, this book mirrors their relationship but takes a different path.
When Joe Kingsley, the son of an iconic American family, happens upon model Cate Cooper on a photo shoot in the Hamptons, it’s love at first sight. But Cate comes from the wrong side of the tracks and isn’t interested in becoming front-page news by dating Joe. Eventually, she gives in, and the two fall in love, but secrets from Cate’s past and a tragedy threaten to destroy their relationship.
While loosely based on the Kennedy family, it is obvious enough what is similar, but it is different enough to stand on its own.
I am a bit of an outlier when it comes to this book. There were a few things I couldn’t read past, especially the awkward dialogue and two-dimensional characters.
The chapters alternate between Joe and Kate’s POVs. Joe is likable, but he is somewhat stupid. He is also sweet, gentle, and charming. Cate has more layers, but both characters, while likable, lack depth.
Meant to Be is very readable. It's repetitive, and I found the dialogue to be stilted. However, I was entertained by Joe and Cate, and I enjoyed watching them grow.
My star rating was about to slide from 3 stars to 2.5, but the ending saved this one for me. It even elevated it a notch and made me recognize that I actually liked Joe and Cate. By the end, I was rooting for their characters. I enjoyed the epilogue and Giffin’s take on what could have been.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher.
3.5 stars
Meant To Be is a love story/character study about the son of American royalty and the model who captures his heart. Loosely based on the relationship between JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, this book mirrors their relationship but takes a different path.
When Joe Kingsley, the son of an iconic American family, happens upon model Cate Cooper on a photo shoot in the Hamptons, it’s love at first sight. But Cate comes from the wrong side of the tracks and isn’t interested in becoming front-page news by dating Joe. Eventually, she gives in, and the two fall in love, but secrets from Cate’s past and a tragedy threaten to destroy their relationship.
While loosely based on the Kennedy family, it is obvious enough what is similar, but it is different enough to stand on its own.
I am a bit of an outlier when it comes to this book. There were a few things I couldn’t read past, especially the awkward dialogue and two-dimensional characters.
The chapters alternate between Joe and Kate’s POVs. Joe is likable, but he is somewhat stupid. He is also sweet, gentle, and charming. Cate has more layers, but both characters, while likable, lack depth.
Meant to Be is very readable. It's repetitive, and I found the dialogue to be stilted. However, I was entertained by Joe and Cate, and I enjoyed watching them grow.
My star rating was about to slide from 3 stars to 2.5, but the ending saved this one for me. It even elevated it a notch and made me recognize that I actually liked Joe and Cate. By the end, I was rooting for their characters. I enjoyed the epilogue and Giffin’s take on what could have been.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher.
March 21, 2023
Meant to Be is a lovely novel based on the real-life love story of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.
Sound the alarm. Light the beacons. Muster the Rohirrim. It's finally happened. I've finally found a good romance novel.
Be happy for me because I deserve it. It's been years (or at least it feels like it). Years of re-reads, DNFs, and lackluster copycats. Well, no more.
My black, judgmental little heart enjoyed this immensely.
I loved the novel so much that I procrastinated my way through it. Have you ever loved a story so much that you didn't want to finish it? There are two kinds of readers. Ones who think 'I love this book so much I'll finish it in a couple of hours' and the visionaries who live by the motto 'I love this book so much I'll finish it in a month.' (Howard "Speedy" Berg would hate me)
As a non-American, I never understood the fascination with the Kennedys. They were good at politics, liked to cheat on their spouses, and had more drama than all of Shakespeare's tragedies combined. But why? Why is the world fascinated by the Kennedys and the British royal family? I guess I'm just an impudent plebeian from a small European country who doesn't appreciate nepotism historical figures.
I sound like a hater, but I'm not. I am strangely fascinated by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. She is treated unfairly by male Kennedy biographers - who often portray her as icy and aloof. How could a lowly commoner bag the handsome, Ivy-League educated, filthy rich, most eligible bachelor in America? Some people don't think she deserved him. Emily Giffin, as Michael Jordan would say, took it personally.
I am in love with the characters in this book. I am in love with Cate Cooper and Joe Kingsley. Nothing about this book is shallow or foolish. It deals with heavy subjects such as domestic violence, trauma, and death. The first few chapters give a vivid insight into the differences between Cate and Joe's upbringing. Cate's stepfather is a police officer who drinks and abuses her mother. She lives in constant fear of him. She dreams of a better life far away from her abusive household. She wishes for freedom, strength, and independence. Her desires eventually come true. Cate becomes a strong, independent woman who doesn't need a man to make her happy. She is pretty, brave, and self-sufficient; but feels a sense of low self-worth.
Now let's talk about JFK Jr. Joe Kingsley III.
I grinned, I smirked, I swooned, I gazed lovingly at the screen, I cursed at Emily Giffin for creating an ideal man that doesn't exist in real life. Joe is a freaking unicorn. He is perfection. Thoughtful, well-mannered, adventurous, intelligent, funny, charming, beautiful, and (not that it really matters) rich. He's a bit cheesy but in a delightful way. Damn you, Emily!
I loved the way he treated Cate. Douchey, tattooed, bad boys are the bread and butter of romance novel writers. The older I get, the less tolerance I have for brooding douchecanoes (in fiction and real life). Thankfully, Joe is none of those things. Are you still searching for your ideal fictional husband? Look no further. This one's a keeper.
I enjoyed reading about 'Jackie.' I'm nearly positive Joe's cousin Peter and his fiancée Genevieve are Anthony (son of the Polish prince Stanisław Radziwiłł and Lee Radziwiłł, Jackie's younger sister) and Carole Radziwiłł. Carole and Anthony were very close with JFK Jr and Carolyn (who have featured heavily in Carole's book What Remains: A Memoir of Fate, Friendship, and Love).
I'm giving this book five stars because I adore Joe and Cate. It's the happy ending Carolyn deserved. Unfortunately, life isn't always fair.
Sound the alarm. Light the beacons. Muster the Rohirrim. It's finally happened. I've finally found a good romance novel.
Be happy for me because I deserve it. It's been years (or at least it feels like it). Years of re-reads, DNFs, and lackluster copycats. Well, no more.
My black, judgmental little heart enjoyed this immensely.
I loved the novel so much that I procrastinated my way through it. Have you ever loved a story so much that you didn't want to finish it? There are two kinds of readers. Ones who think 'I love this book so much I'll finish it in a couple of hours' and the visionaries who live by the motto 'I love this book so much I'll finish it in a month.' (Howard "Speedy" Berg would hate me)
As a non-American, I never understood the fascination with the Kennedys. They were good at politics, liked to cheat on their spouses, and had more drama than all of Shakespeare's tragedies combined. But why? Why is the world fascinated by the Kennedys and the British royal family? I guess I'm just an impudent plebeian from a small European country who doesn't appreciate
I sound like a hater, but I'm not. I am strangely fascinated by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. She is treated unfairly by male Kennedy biographers - who often portray her as icy and aloof. How could a lowly commoner bag the handsome, Ivy-League educated, filthy rich, most eligible bachelor in America? Some people don't think she deserved him. Emily Giffin, as Michael Jordan would say, took it personally.
I am in love with the characters in this book. I am in love with Cate Cooper and Joe Kingsley. Nothing about this book is shallow or foolish. It deals with heavy subjects such as domestic violence, trauma, and death. The first few chapters give a vivid insight into the differences between Cate and Joe's upbringing. Cate's stepfather is a police officer who drinks and abuses her mother. She lives in constant fear of him. She dreams of a better life far away from her abusive household. She wishes for freedom, strength, and independence. Her desires eventually come true. Cate becomes a strong, independent woman who doesn't need a man to make her happy. She is pretty, brave, and self-sufficient; but feels a sense of low self-worth.
Now let's talk about
I grinned, I smirked, I swooned, I gazed lovingly at the screen, I cursed at Emily Giffin for creating an ideal man that doesn't exist in real life. Joe is a freaking unicorn. He is perfection. Thoughtful, well-mannered, adventurous, intelligent, funny, charming, beautiful, and (not that it really matters) rich. He's a bit cheesy but in a delightful way. Damn you, Emily!
I loved the way he treated Cate. Douchey, tattooed, bad boys are the bread and butter of romance novel writers. The older I get, the less tolerance I have for brooding douchecanoes (in fiction and real life). Thankfully, Joe is none of those things. Are you still searching for your ideal fictional husband? Look no further. This one's a keeper.
I enjoyed reading about 'Jackie.' I'm nearly positive Joe's cousin Peter and his fiancée Genevieve are Anthony (son of the Polish prince Stanisław Radziwiłł and Lee Radziwiłł, Jackie's younger sister) and Carole Radziwiłł. Carole and Anthony were very close with JFK Jr and Carolyn (who have featured heavily in Carole's book What Remains: A Memoir of Fate, Friendship, and Love).
I'm giving this book five stars because I adore Joe and Cate. It's the happy ending Carolyn deserved. Unfortunately, life isn't always fair.
May 4, 2022
Emily Giffin is back with a banger 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 her romance novels are some of my faves because they aren’t super “trope-y,” they aren’t forced and it just evolves so naturally and feels like you’re reading and immersed in a great story.
MEANT TO BE is loosely based on the Kennedy family—mainly JFK Jr and Carolyn Bessett. it was such a fun spin on their story (and the family) and what their life could have been.
this will be another hit!! perfect spring romance. you’ll want to pre order this one 💖
thanks Ballantine for the gifted ARC! full review to come on my IG this month. releases 5/31!
MEANT TO BE is loosely based on the Kennedy family—mainly JFK Jr and Carolyn Bessett. it was such a fun spin on their story (and the family) and what their life could have been.
this will be another hit!! perfect spring romance. you’ll want to pre order this one 💖
thanks Ballantine for the gifted ARC! full review to come on my IG this month. releases 5/31!
November 11, 2022
Ughhhhhhhhh. This book was so UNBELIEVABLY predictable and cliche. And the absolute ripoff of JFK Junior’s life. I cannot even. This book is embarrassing. I never should have read another by her after that ABSURD book with the girl who ends up with her best friends dad. But, alas. Emily Giffin, it’s time for you to join your friends Liane Moriarty and Jennifer Weiner in my category AUTHORS WHO USED TO BE SO FREAKING GOOD AND NOW I CANNOT EVEN. Wahhhhhhhhhhhhhh
June 4, 2022
This is a DNF for me at 30%. This is most definitely a book for younger people. I couldn't connect with the angst between two 30 y/o's who seemed rather immature given their age.
I would definitely call this romance with a bit of family drama thrown in. Not a bad book, just not for me.
I would definitely call this romance with a bit of family drama thrown in. Not a bad book, just not for me.
April 4, 2024
⭐️⭐️ A quick read and a mediocre romance, but overall not something I'd recommend. The characters were unlikeable and the writing left something to be desired.
Initially, I thought the writing style was intentionally elementary because the characters were so young. Sadly, this didn't change as they progressed from childhood into their thirties. If you're ever looking for an example of a book that "tells" instead of "shows," here's an excellent model. Additionally, the book is incredibly repetitive. One character tells the reader exactly what happened and the second character repeats those same events in the very next chapter. I kept reading, anticipating some big twist or reveal that would make this worth my time. Needless to say I was disappointed, especially by the ending.
I think my biggest gripe was the fact that the plot is so heavily based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. I was pretty young when they died, so maybe I would have been more intrigued if I were half as invested in this family as Emily Giffin appears to be. I was expecting some light Kennedy vibes, but this kind of felt uncomfortable. I mean, the author includes everything from the exact engagement ring right down to Carolyn's L.L. Bean tote. I'm sure a lot of readers will love this, but the best part of the book for me was that I felt inspired to spend some time digging through old pictures of 90's street style online.
Initially, I thought the writing style was intentionally elementary because the characters were so young. Sadly, this didn't change as they progressed from childhood into their thirties. If you're ever looking for an example of a book that "tells" instead of "shows," here's an excellent model. Additionally, the book is incredibly repetitive. One character tells the reader exactly what happened and the second character repeats those same events in the very next chapter. I kept reading, anticipating some big twist or reveal that would make this worth my time. Needless to say I was disappointed, especially by the ending.
I think my biggest gripe was the fact that the plot is so heavily based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. I was pretty young when they died, so maybe I would have been more intrigued if I were half as invested in this family as Emily Giffin appears to be. I was expecting some light Kennedy vibes, but this kind of felt uncomfortable. I mean, the author includes everything from the exact engagement ring right down to Carolyn's L.L. Bean tote. I'm sure a lot of readers will love this, but the best part of the book for me was that I felt inspired to spend some time digging through old pictures of 90's street style online.
May 21, 2022
Joe grows up in the public eye. He is a Kingsley -- a family loosely based on our Kennedy clan. Cate is a self-made woman. She becomes the face of a Calvin Klein campaign and then works with an up and coming designer. They meet on the beach. Are they meant to be? Can they build a relationship that will not crumble under the expectations of his family or the baggage from hers? This would make a fabulous vacation read. Just open it up and escape into this "what might have been" story from Emily Giffin.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2022
Joseph S. Kingsley III is considered American royalty. He comes from a line of wealthy, accomplished, and well-known individuals. Joseph is expected to succeed and become something special. Joseph is not sure of what he wants to do with his life but he can feel the pressure building.
Cat's childhood was not an easy one. Thankfully, Cat is "discovered" and starts modeling as a teenager, becoming quite popular and in-demand making her face easily recognizable.
When Joseph meets Cat, he knows she is the one. However, he will need to convince his mother and his best friend that Cat is his future despite their differences.
As soon as I realized Meant To Be was loosely based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's romance, I knew I wanted to read it.
The book has both POVs. Each character detailed their different backgrounds and I was rooting for their love to go the distance without a horrible tragedy at the end.
I am one of those that loved John John. I thought he had great potential and possibly an amazing future. Despite not knowing him, I felt saddened by his death. Both lives were cut too short.
Just like the author, I used to read (guiltily) about their courtship and then their marriage. Who hasn’t seen their wedding picture with him kissing her hand? Cruelly their romantic story ended drastically on July 16, 1999.
Meant to Be by is classic Emily Giffin with interesting characters you want to get to know and would love to meet in real life.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Ballantine Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Cat's childhood was not an easy one. Thankfully, Cat is "discovered" and starts modeling as a teenager, becoming quite popular and in-demand making her face easily recognizable.
When Joseph meets Cat, he knows she is the one. However, he will need to convince his mother and his best friend that Cat is his future despite their differences.
As soon as I realized Meant To Be was loosely based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's romance, I knew I wanted to read it.
The book has both POVs. Each character detailed their different backgrounds and I was rooting for their love to go the distance without a horrible tragedy at the end.
I am one of those that loved John John. I thought he had great potential and possibly an amazing future. Despite not knowing him, I felt saddened by his death. Both lives were cut too short.
Just like the author, I used to read (guiltily) about their courtship and then their marriage. Who hasn’t seen their wedding picture with him kissing her hand? Cruelly their romantic story ended drastically on July 16, 1999.
Meant to Be by is classic Emily Giffin with interesting characters you want to get to know and would love to meet in real life.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Ballantine Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
May 31, 2022
A story of two people who come from very different backgrounds. Joe is the son of a man who was a public figure, his grandfather also a public figure - a philanthropist and a friend of Teddy Roosevelt. His grandmother, a famous suffragist from another esteemed family. As such, Joe, by default, has grown up in the public eye, and therefore much is expected of him. His father died soon after his third birthday, so what memories he claims he has are dismissed by others. Still, they still feel real to him, which brings him some comfort. But Joe has been in the public eye most of his life, and he is no longer a toddler. There are expectations from his mother, as well as those who are familiar with his family legacy - there are burdens that come with privilege, and as well as assumptions made. Teen girls that grew up during that time had posters of him on their wall, hoping that one day he would notice them, and dream of more. Everyone assumes he will follow the path his father would have, had he lived longer. Politics.
He made it all seem effortless, with his charismatic smile and looks, but underneath that smile was the grief he’d carried for most of his life. But when everyone knows who you are, and the paparrazzi is everywhere, you can’t afford to let it show. The burdens of the expectations.
Cate, on the other hand, one of the girls who once upon a time had a poster of him in her room, comes from another world. The only thing she has in common with someone like Joe is the death of her father when she was three. The life that followed wasn’t nearly as glamorous, she and her mother moving in with her grandmother soon after, with her mother finding a job as a waitress, and - eventually - remarrying. As the years go by, and many tries, Cate lands a modeling job in her senior year, her mother is thrilled, and her stepfather is not.
During a modeling shoot on a beach, Joe is walking his dog who catches the attention of the cast of people telling Cate what they want out of her next, as well as Cate. He gives her his phone number, letting her know he is interested.
A story of the haves and the have-nots, and a love story that has its trials, internal and external, ups and downs. A re-imagination of a different scenario, a ‘what-if’ kind of story.
Published: 31 May 2022
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine / Ballantine Books
October 24, 2022
Joe Kingsley is born into a well-known American family and throughout his life, Joe tries to uphold this legacy. This is challenging at times though, like when he’s trying to figure out what he wants to do professionally.
Cate grew up in opposite circumstances — The daughter of a single mom, with an abusive stepfather, she looks for a way out of the unstable life she’s been forced to endure and finds it through modeling.
When Cate and Joe meet, they have a fast connection though the timing isn’t ideal. Eventually they reconnect and begin building a relationship. Cate doesn’t necessarily want the fame that comes with Joe’s iconic lifestyle and is afraid if her past is revealed, it will reflect poorly on his image. Joe is tired of worrying what others will think and wants to live his life, his way. Cate and Joe must decide if they’re worth fighting for and the couple faces a make or break situation.
Meant to Be is loosely based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s relationship, which I had minimal familiarity with. Though I found Joe and Cate a bit angsty at times, this story held my interest. It was a great take on what might have been and I appreciated Emily Giffin’s author note at the end of the book.
Cate grew up in opposite circumstances — The daughter of a single mom, with an abusive stepfather, she looks for a way out of the unstable life she’s been forced to endure and finds it through modeling.
When Cate and Joe meet, they have a fast connection though the timing isn’t ideal. Eventually they reconnect and begin building a relationship. Cate doesn’t necessarily want the fame that comes with Joe’s iconic lifestyle and is afraid if her past is revealed, it will reflect poorly on his image. Joe is tired of worrying what others will think and wants to live his life, his way. Cate and Joe must decide if they’re worth fighting for and the couple faces a make or break situation.
Meant to Be is loosely based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s relationship, which I had minimal familiarity with. Though I found Joe and Cate a bit angsty at times, this story held my interest. It was a great take on what might have been and I appreciated Emily Giffin’s author note at the end of the book.
June 6, 2022
Did I end up skimming a lot? Yes. But to be fair, this wasn’t a book so much as a recitation. Two characters yammering on, telling the reader what they did and how they felt, never once showing. This may be the worst traditionally published book I’ve ever read. Giffin didn’t construct scenes, she just narrated her outline. There was no richness to the characters, no scene setting. It read like a first draft, where the author is simply writing “and then this happens and then this happens and then this happens.” The characters were incredibly flat, like because she told you they were inspired by JFK Jr and Carolyn Bessette, she didn’t have to do any character development beyond that. This was … embarrassing to read. Especially because I’ve read several other Giffin books and know she knows how to do this. Was she so enamored with the glossy legend of JFK Jr that she simply forgot how to tell an actual story? I picked this up hoping it would be a Curtis Sittenfeld-style alt history novel, but it failed so hard.
Also, [SPOILER] frankly it feels gross and disrespectful to write an actual plane crash scene but have them survive it.
Also, [SPOILER] frankly it feels gross and disrespectful to write an actual plane crash scene but have them survive it.
February 15, 2022
Giffin is an author that I remember loving ever since her debut, Something Borrowed, came out. Since then, I’ve looked forward to her new releases which have not been as frequent as I would have liked - some having become new favorites up there with the SB books and others, well… not quite. I can very happily say that Meant to Be falls strongly in the favorite camp and I cannot tell you the last time I read a book front to back quite so quickly.
MTB is loosely based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette and imagines what if? Ultimately, this book is fiction, so of course, it needs to be read in that vein. I was utterly captivated with the story of Joe Kingsley and Cate Cooper and wished the book was double the length so i could keep reading about them! I’m sad I finished so quickly since EG only publishes every other year, I’ll have to wait quite a bit for more from her!
Thank you to Random House for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
MTB is loosely based on JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette and imagines what if? Ultimately, this book is fiction, so of course, it needs to be read in that vein. I was utterly captivated with the story of Joe Kingsley and Cate Cooper and wished the book was double the length so i could keep reading about them! I’m sad I finished so quickly since EG only publishes every other year, I’ll have to wait quite a bit for more from her!
Thank you to Random House for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
July 31, 2022
Joe Kingsley III is the eldest son of the beloved Kingsley family, adored for their politics and military heroics. But he struggles holding up the honor of the Kingsley name. Meanwhile Cate grew up poor in a single-parent home. Modeling was her way out. When Joe and Cate meet, they feel a connection instantly. But can their relationship survive the intense spotlight that comes with it?
This was a surprisingly captivating read! It wasn't always the best written, perhaps, but I found myself always wanting to pick it up and find out what was going on with Joe and Cate. They were both intriguing characters.
MEANT TO BE uses the "what if" of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy as its foundation. You can see parallels as you read, but the characters do stand on their own. Joe is struggling with the burdens that come with being from a famous family, while Cate is a model from the wrong side of the tracks. The tale moves quickly as chapters alternate between Joe and Cate's point of view. Their love story is actually quite sweet at times and it's truly fascinating in a sort of soap opera, dramatic way. The book also touches on important topics such as domestic violence.
Overall, this is a touching, emotional romantic story that draws you in immediately. 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
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This was a surprisingly captivating read! It wasn't always the best written, perhaps, but I found myself always wanting to pick it up and find out what was going on with Joe and Cate. They were both intriguing characters.
MEANT TO BE uses the "what if" of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy as its foundation. You can see parallels as you read, but the characters do stand on their own. Joe is struggling with the burdens that come with being from a famous family, while Cate is a model from the wrong side of the tracks. The tale moves quickly as chapters alternate between Joe and Cate's point of view. Their love story is actually quite sweet at times and it's truly fascinating in a sort of soap opera, dramatic way. The book also touches on important topics such as domestic violence.
Overall, this is a touching, emotional romantic story that draws you in immediately. 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
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June 6, 2022
Undoubtedly a quick read mainly because it was so repetitive. One character would tell you what happened and then the next character would tell you the same thing that happened….. and so on until the book was done.
Loosely based on JFK Jr and Carolyn Bessette’s love relationship (which I was unaware of), I couldn’t help thinking how much they would of hated this book.
I just thought it was kind of tasteless considering they had such a tragic ending.
Juvenile writing. It is a romcom but one of the worst kind, there has to be better ones out there than this.
Loosely based on JFK Jr and Carolyn Bessette’s love relationship (which I was unaware of), I couldn’t help thinking how much they would of hated this book.
I just thought it was kind of tasteless considering they had such a tragic ending.
Juvenile writing. It is a romcom but one of the worst kind, there has to be better ones out there than this.
June 21, 2022
4.5/5 (rounded up)
It has been a while since I have read an Emily Giffin novel, and what a better way to get back to her than by reading Meant to Be. This is a slow-burn, women's fiction/romance story that was inspired by Giffin wanting to create a bit of a "what if" scenario with John F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife Caroline (thank you author's note!). I loved that the book rotated between Joe and Cate's viewpoints, and how unique each of their voices was. Even though I don't really know much about the Kennedys, I can't help but think Giffin nailed her idea for the story, and I adored her author's note at the end of the book since I had no idea going into this that it was supposed to have anything to do with the Kennedys. I tend not to see connections though, and I'm sure other readers will easily be able to pick this out.
And if you are looking for an amazing audiobook, you will find it with Meant to Be. The narrators Caroline Hewitt and Robert Petkoff felt like they were made to voice Cate and Joe, and I LOVED their narration. For this reason, I would highly recommend listening to the audio, and I thought their voices and talent brought a lot to the story and characters. To me, this felt like a very character-driven story as opposed to plot, and I really enjoyed the fact that we got to know our MCs so well. They felt like real people that I wanted to be friends with, and that is something I always love and appreciate. I definitely had tears in my eyes at the end, and even though there was one thing that I thought was pretty cheesy, I couldn't help but still love it. If you are already a Giffin fan or just want a lovely romance with a lot of depth, you will certainly want to read Meant to Be.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
It has been a while since I have read an Emily Giffin novel, and what a better way to get back to her than by reading Meant to Be. This is a slow-burn, women's fiction/romance story that was inspired by Giffin wanting to create a bit of a "what if" scenario with John F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife Caroline (thank you author's note!). I loved that the book rotated between Joe and Cate's viewpoints, and how unique each of their voices was. Even though I don't really know much about the Kennedys, I can't help but think Giffin nailed her idea for the story, and I adored her author's note at the end of the book since I had no idea going into this that it was supposed to have anything to do with the Kennedys. I tend not to see connections though, and I'm sure other readers will easily be able to pick this out.
And if you are looking for an amazing audiobook, you will find it with Meant to Be. The narrators Caroline Hewitt and Robert Petkoff felt like they were made to voice Cate and Joe, and I LOVED their narration. For this reason, I would highly recommend listening to the audio, and I thought their voices and talent brought a lot to the story and characters. To me, this felt like a very character-driven story as opposed to plot, and I really enjoyed the fact that we got to know our MCs so well. They felt like real people that I wanted to be friends with, and that is something I always love and appreciate. I definitely had tears in my eyes at the end, and even though there was one thing that I thought was pretty cheesy, I couldn't help but still love it. If you are already a Giffin fan or just want a lovely romance with a lot of depth, you will certainly want to read Meant to Be.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 15, 2022
Truly awful with shallow characters. It bored me to tears and I ended up skimming through some of the chapters.
February 16, 2022
Oh my goodness. This book WRECKED me in the best way! I fell in love with Joe and Cate and the fairy tale they were trying to make reality. The supporting characters were also just as endearing. I read it fast because I needed to know the end would be satisfying. I read it slow because I wanted it to last. Parts of this his novel made me swoon other parts broke me. Absolutely one of best books I’ve read and my favorite Emily giffin!
June 11, 2022
If you’re going to write intrusive fiction (including sex scenes!) about two real people who died tragically, you could at least put in a minimum of effort. This reads like it was written by an AI chat bot trained on People Magazine.
February 14, 2023
The Kingsley family is like American royalty. Joe S. Kingsley III grew up in the spotlight simply because of his name. His father was a famous war hero, congressman and Astronaut. Everyone in America loves his father but Joe has no memories of him because he died in a horrible accident at NASA when Joe was only three years old.
Cate Cooper is an only child, her dad died in a car accident when she was little and her mom struggles to get by. Her mothers goal in life seems to be to just find a man with money who can take care of them. She dates many but no one sticks until she starts dating a cop named Chip who has a three bedroom house in the suburbs and everything she ever wanted. Unfortunately it doesn't take long for him to become abusive. At 16 Cate is spotted by a modeling agent on the beach and begins her career. Eager to escape her bad home life she drops out of highschool and moves in with a friend while she slowly gains popularity in the industry.
Years later these two have a brief chance encounter at the beach, both already in relationships it doesn't go any further than a phone number exchange but that spark leads to their eventual relationship. Two very different people from two very different walks of life. Can Cate live up to the Kingsley name?
Loosely based on John Kennedy Jr. And Carolyn Bassett this is refreshingly not your average tropey
Romance.
Cate Cooper is an only child, her dad died in a car accident when she was little and her mom struggles to get by. Her mothers goal in life seems to be to just find a man with money who can take care of them. She dates many but no one sticks until she starts dating a cop named Chip who has a three bedroom house in the suburbs and everything she ever wanted. Unfortunately it doesn't take long for him to become abusive. At 16 Cate is spotted by a modeling agent on the beach and begins her career. Eager to escape her bad home life she drops out of highschool and moves in with a friend while she slowly gains popularity in the industry.
Years later these two have a brief chance encounter at the beach, both already in relationships it doesn't go any further than a phone number exchange but that spark leads to their eventual relationship. Two very different people from two very different walks of life. Can Cate live up to the Kingsley name?
Loosely based on John Kennedy Jr. And Carolyn Bassett this is refreshingly not your average tropey
Romance.
June 8, 2022
When I say I DEVOURED this book!! It was simply unputdownable.
Joe Kingsley is basically American royalty. He comes from a prominent well-to-do family where standards are set high and he can't leave his home without being recognized. This doesn't stop him from living life to the fullest and having a "playboy" reputation ... until he meets Cate and can't help but falling for her.
This story is loosely based on JKF Jr. and Carolyn Bassette. I didn't know much about their relationship and I am so glad I went into this one blind. By the time I got to the last 25% I couldn't flip through the pages fast enough to see how the story would unfold. This beautiful story about star-crossed lovers will make you believe in true love and have you wondering "what if".
Thank you BookSparks for my finished copy!
Joe Kingsley is basically American royalty. He comes from a prominent well-to-do family where standards are set high and he can't leave his home without being recognized. This doesn't stop him from living life to the fullest and having a "playboy" reputation ... until he meets Cate and can't help but falling for her.
This story is loosely based on JKF Jr. and Carolyn Bassette. I didn't know much about their relationship and I am so glad I went into this one blind. By the time I got to the last 25% I couldn't flip through the pages fast enough to see how the story would unfold. This beautiful story about star-crossed lovers will make you believe in true love and have you wondering "what if".
Thank you BookSparks for my finished copy!
May 3, 2022
I’m a huge fan of the author and when I found out that she was releasing a book that was loosely inspired by JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette I was swooning even before I got a chance to read it. She takes a chance and reimagines history through her own unique lens and it worked incredibly well for me.
Told over the course of several years this felt like an epic, sweeping love story all about fate and timing. Both Cate and Joe were complex and well drawn and in alternating chapters detail their personal upbringings in the time both before they meet and afterwards. I was complete caught up in their story and hanging onto the authors every word. There was so much nostalgia too, always a fun aspect for me and it was well done here. Overall I loved every minute of this one and can definitely recommend it as a perfect addition to your summer TBR.
Told over the course of several years this felt like an epic, sweeping love story all about fate and timing. Both Cate and Joe were complex and well drawn and in alternating chapters detail their personal upbringings in the time both before they meet and afterwards. I was complete caught up in their story and hanging onto the authors every word. There was so much nostalgia too, always a fun aspect for me and it was well done here. Overall I loved every minute of this one and can definitely recommend it as a perfect addition to your summer TBR.
May 26, 2022
Review coming soon.
June 15, 2023
If you remember John F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, you probably remember their fairy tale romance and their tragic ending from a plane crash in the ocean. This is something the author remembered, as well. And for her as she began her role as an author, she also wondered, “what if” they didn’t die? And so, her characters Joe and Cate were created.
Now, much about them may seem similar, or not, but, it is intriguing to read the story from the characters points of view – up to and beyond that fateful crash. Because you know it’s coming.
What you don’t know is how this story is going to end.
And that is why you want to read this book.
If you followed the real life story of the Kennedys, maybe this might be one you would be interested in.
Why not?
Who doesn’t love a 'could this have happened' love story?
Now, much about them may seem similar, or not, but, it is intriguing to read the story from the characters points of view – up to and beyond that fateful crash. Because you know it’s coming.
What you don’t know is how this story is going to end.
And that is why you want to read this book.
If you followed the real life story of the Kennedys, maybe this might be one you would be interested in.
Why not?
Who doesn’t love a 'could this have happened' love story?
July 30, 2022
3.5 out of 5 stars.
December 6, 2022
I loved this.
June 29, 2023
Simply fabulous
June 1, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5/5, Romance)
I have a lot of thoughts about this book.
I truly found this story totally entertaining and had a hard time putting the book down. Yet, I found the book so strangely written I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath. It felt like more of a book that “shows” vs. “tells”.
This book is based on JFK Jr. and Carole Basset. While the author acknowledges the story is based on the pair, she says the characters in the book are fictionalized. In reality, the characters have so many similarities to JFK and Carole it’s almost distracting.
Basically, I would love a nonfiction JFK Jr./ Carole Basset love story but this book felt like it was essentially fan fiction?
As always, this could be personal preference and you may feel differently after losing yourself in these pages.
Again, totally entertaining but left me wanting a bit more.
The story is about Joe F. Kingsley, American royalty who has the weight of the world on his shoulders and Cate (last name?) a famed model and fashion icon. Joe and Cate could not come from more different worlds, Joe coming up in a life of prestige and family duty while Cate overcomes hardships and an abusive home life. When their paths cross, the connection is instant, but can they survive in each others very different worlds?
It reminds me a bit of the Royal We (which I LOVED, if you have not read it yet- do it immediately).
Best paired with a Rose Kennedy (basically a vodka soda with a splash of cranberry) named after the matriarch of the Kennedy clan!
I have a lot of thoughts about this book.
I truly found this story totally entertaining and had a hard time putting the book down. Yet, I found the book so strangely written I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath. It felt like more of a book that “shows” vs. “tells”.
This book is based on JFK Jr. and Carole Basset. While the author acknowledges the story is based on the pair, she says the characters in the book are fictionalized. In reality, the characters have so many similarities to JFK and Carole it’s almost distracting.
Basically, I would love a nonfiction JFK Jr./ Carole Basset love story but this book felt like it was essentially fan fiction?
As always, this could be personal preference and you may feel differently after losing yourself in these pages.
Again, totally entertaining but left me wanting a bit more.
The story is about Joe F. Kingsley, American royalty who has the weight of the world on his shoulders and Cate (last name?) a famed model and fashion icon. Joe and Cate could not come from more different worlds, Joe coming up in a life of prestige and family duty while Cate overcomes hardships and an abusive home life. When their paths cross, the connection is instant, but can they survive in each others very different worlds?
It reminds me a bit of the Royal We (which I LOVED, if you have not read it yet- do it immediately).
Best paired with a Rose Kennedy (basically a vodka soda with a splash of cranberry) named after the matriarch of the Kennedy clan!
May 26, 2022
An unlikely pair; a wealthy boy and a girl with a troubled past meet and try to navigate a relationship. Joe Kingsley III is part of an upper crust family that is practically considered American royalty. Cate grew up in a meager, single parent home until she was discovered and thrust into the modeling industry as a young teen. When Joe and Cate meet they have an instant and strong connection. Can their relationship survive the constant attention that Joe receives on a daily basis?
I am a big fan of Emily Giffin. I love her writing style and her background as a lawyer seems to give her a unique perspective. When I found out that this book was loosely based on the Kennedy family, I was even more anxious to read it. I really loved it! The writing was excellent, as I had expected it would be. The story of these two was absolutely captivating and I can’t wait to read this author’s next book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
I am a big fan of Emily Giffin. I love her writing style and her background as a lawyer seems to give her a unique perspective. When I found out that this book was loosely based on the Kennedy family, I was even more anxious to read it. I really loved it! The writing was excellent, as I had expected it would be. The story of these two was absolutely captivating and I can’t wait to read this author’s next book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
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