The Kiss Quotient - Helen Hoang // Book Review

  

The Kiss Quotient
Helen Hoang || Publication Date - 30.05.2018

An amazing debut romance novel showcasing how logic cannot predict love.

Contemporary | Romance

Stella Lane is a woman who works in STEM, where she loves her job in data analysis. Unfortunately one thing she does not love is physical contact. Diagnosed with Asperger's, Stella never had much luck feeling any enjoyment when with a romantic lover. It always felt like a chore and came with many comparisons which were definitely not very sexy. So, she drafts up a step by step plan from learning to kiss to many other things done behind closed doors, determined to finally enjoy her sex life.

To help her with this plan, Stella contacts an escorting agency to be matched with someone who can guide her through her list. In steps Michael Phan, a gorgeous and patient gentleman. A contract is drawn up and what pursues is a journey of understanding, overcoming barriers and learning to accept differences.

The Review (may contain spoilers)

I thought this was very much an enjoyable read. It had a good amount of spice, the characters communicated (mostly) like adults and I felt a genuine connection between Stella and Michael.

Two big stand outs come to me from this novel. Firstly, Stella has been diagnosed with autism. I don't have anyone in my family or within my friends diagnosed on the spectrum so I learnt a lot from Stella. I feel this was explored in a way which was compassionate and at times quite funny. Normalising neurodiversity is important, which I believe Helen brought a wonderful character in Stella to life.

Secondly, Michael's affection towards Stella was adorable. I loved their interactions, and his patience with Stella while she learns to process her feelings and emotions in a safe and comfortable space was heart warming.

Helen did an amazing job of writing her characters emotions. I truly felt happy, sad, angry and awkward at times which made it easy to connect and invest in the story. Very much looking forward to exploring her other two novels in this series and I can't imagine how those books will make me feel if her writing had gotten better!

Overall Thoughts

If you are in the mood for a light hearted and heart warming romance which explores self acceptance and the challenges of navigating a romantic relationship, I could easily recommend this novel. Especially if you're looking for representative stories told through the lens of someone who is neurodivergent.

It will leave you smiling and happy for a couple that doesn't even exist!