Book Review: So Into You by Kathleen Fuller

So Into You by Kathleen Fuller is a charming and heartfelt romance novel that brings together two deeply flawed yet lovable characters—Britt Branch, an introverted artist with severe social anxiety, and Hunter Pickett, a reformed party boy struggling to find direction in his life. The story centers around their journey toward personal growth, understanding, and the kind of love that can only blossom when people allow themselves to be vulnerable.

Character Development and Themes
The beauty of So Into You lies in its focus on character development, particularly for its two leads, Britt and Hunter. Britt is a talented and passionate artist who runs a successful online channel teaching art lessons. However, despite her professional achievements, her social anxiety severely hampers her personal life. Fuller does an excellent job portraying Britt’s internal struggles—she feels safe behind her computer screen but has a difficult time navigating face-to-face relationships. This makes her relatable to many who have experienced anxiety or social insecurities. Britt’s love for the 1970s era, which she expresses through her art and personal style, adds an eccentric and endearing layer to her personality, making her stand out as a unique, creative heroine.

Hunter Pickett, on the other hand, is a "reformed bad boy," and this trope is executed with nuance. He comes from a wealthy family and was once known for his good looks and reckless partying. However, he has spent years recovering from addiction and trying to find meaning in his life, now three years sober. His feelings of inadequacy and the pressure of being the black sheep in a successful family are well conveyed. Hunter’s struggle with his past mistakes, combined with his aimlessness, creates a genuine character arc that extends beyond the typical "charming bad boy" persona seen in many romance novels. His redemption story feels earned, rather than forced, and Fuller allows his vulnerabilities to shine through.

The chemistry between Britt and Hunter is sweet and organic. The connection starts with an online message after Hunter stumbles upon Britt’s art videos. Despite initially having no interest in art, Hunter is captivated by Britt’s passion and talent, which draws him into her world. Their digital interactions gradually build into something more, leading to a friendship full of flirty banter and deep, heartfelt conversations. What’s especially enjoyable about their dynamic is how they teach each other. Britt, with her insecurities, learns from Hunter’s confidence and perseverance, while Hunter discovers the joy and therapeutic power of art through Britt. The novel delicately balances both characters’ personal growth with their growing relationship, making it more than just a romance—it’s a story of healing and learning to embrace oneself.

Themes of Art, Anxiety, and Redemption
One of the standout aspects of So Into You is how it incorporates art as a medium of self-expression and healing. For Britt, art is not just a career—it’s her safe space and the way she communicates with the world. Fuller does a wonderful job of using art as a metaphor for Britt’s personal struggles, particularly her journey toward overcoming her social anxiety and stepping out of the shadows of her own fears. The novel explores how art can be a form of therapy, not just for Britt but also for Hunter, who learns to appreciate creativity as a way of coping with his own emotional baggage.

The portrayal of anxiety is sensitive and realistic, and Britt’s battle with it is not minimized or quickly resolved. Her fears of stepping outside her comfort zone are palpable throughout the story, and it’s refreshing to see a romance heroine whose challenges go beyond simple relationship hurdles. Fuller gives her time to grow, and while the romance helps, it’s ultimately Britt’s own decision to take control of her life that leads to her transformation.

On the other hand, Hunter’s storyline tackles issues of addiction, self-worth, and redemption. As someone who has struggled with drugs and alcohol, he is a character who understands the importance of second chances, and it’s inspiring to see how hard he works to change his life. His journey is not smooth—there are moments of doubt and struggle—but Fuller’s depiction of his recovery feels honest and respectful. Hunter’s aimlessness post-recovery is a relatable aspect of his character, showing that sobriety is not a cure-all, but the beginning of a new, sometimes difficult, path. His relationship with Britt gives him a renewed sense of purpose, but like Britt, his transformation is personal and not wholly dependent on his romantic partner.

Romance and Conflict
While So Into You is undoubtedly a romance novel, the love story unfolds in a slow and steady manner, which fits both characters’ personalities and circumstances. There is no instant, whirlwind romance here; instead, Fuller builds a believable and tender connection between Britt and Hunter, allowing their friendship to serve as the foundation for something deeper. The romantic tension is there, but it’s rooted in emotional intimacy and mutual respect, which makes the eventual blossoming of their relationship all the more satisfying.

That being said, the novel also has its fair share of conflict, particularly as both characters are keeping significant secrets. When these secrets come to light in a pivotal moment, Britt and Hunter are forced to confront not only each other’s pasts but also their own insecurities and fears. Fuller handles this moment with care, giving both characters the space to react authentically. The resolution is neither rushed nor overly dramatic, maintaining the novel’s focus on emotional growth rather than contrived conflict for the sake of tension.

Conclusion
So Into You is a delightful read for fans of sweet, character-driven romances. Kathleen Fuller has crafted a thoughtful story that tackles issues like social anxiety, addiction, and self-worth, while still delivering the warmth and feel-good moments that romance readers crave. Britt and Hunter’s love story is grounded in mutual respect and personal growth, making their journey toward happiness both heartwarming and inspiring.

For readers looking for a romance that goes beyond surface-level attraction and explores the deeper emotional layers of its characters, So Into You is a perfect choice. Whether you're drawn to stories about artistic expression, personal redemption, or simply enjoy a well-crafted opposites-attract romance, this book has something to offer.

I had to pretend Britt and Hunter were in their late teens so I wouldn't get angry. Amy drove me nuts.
Maude and X were the best part of this whole book.
The middle end ending felt like a rushed mish mash of different stories. I wanted to dnf it so many times but was able to finish it. Never again.

So Into You was a sweet romance with different POVs. I liked that there were heavier issues incorporated into the love story that was written with care.

How could anyone not love this book! Just adorable. Loved every minute reading it. Perfect romance. Will look for more by Kathleen Fuller!

This book was just okay for me. I really enjoyed the premise of the book (hence why I requested an arc) but just didn’t end up falling in love.

I love dual POVs for romances and I think Multis work for other genres but for this book there were too many povs going on for my liking. That paired with th religious undertones (my bad for not doing more research) and the secret keeping (nothing grinds my gears more than secrets and miscommunication) it was a little hard to connect and love these characters. Still a decent book and if the description strikes you, please pick it up! But not a favorite for me.

So Into You is a tender and heartfelt romance that explores themes of personal growth, vulnerability, and second chances. Britt Branch, an artist with a successful online channel, is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist dealing with severe social anxiety. Her passion for art and her obsession with 1970s aesthetics add a unique flair to her character, but her fears hold her back from truly living. When she decides to take a bold step forward, inspired by her best friend’s upcoming wedding, she meets Hunter Pickett, a charming yet aimless man who is also on a journey of self-discovery after years of struggling with addiction. Their unexpected connection, starting through online messages and blossoming into real-life meetings, is sweetly portrayed, building up a spark-filled friendship that feels genuine and warm.

Hunter’s character development is equally compelling. As the black sheep of a wealthy family, he’s spent years grappling with his own demons, and his slow realization of how much Britt’s artistry and authenticity mean to him brings a depth to his transformation. Both Britt and Hunter are hiding aspects of themselves, and when their secrets are finally revealed, the emotional weight of the moment hits hard. So Into You beautifully captures their journey toward healing and self-acceptance, asking whether love can conquer not just external obstacles but the personal barriers they've each built. With relatable, flawed characters and a slow-burn romance, this story will appeal to anyone who enjoys a heartfelt, emotionally charged love story.

This book is a deeper romance novel. It is full of forgiveness, second chances, and hope that people can change for the better. It features a reformed bad boy struggling to find himself after becoming sober and a woman who is a brilliant artist that struggles with debilitating social anxiety.
I really enjoyed this story and these characters because it felt like real people struggling with real problems.
I definitely recommend you give this a read especially if you love art!

This was a really cute, clean romance about a YouTube artist dealing with anxiety struggles and a man with a past he'd like to move beyond. I enjoyed how the characters were all intertwined and how their stories ended up connecting.

*I received a free digital copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review

The story surrounds Britt Branch, an influencer who has social anxiety. She lives her life doing art on YouTube with a huge following.

Hunter Pickett has pulled himself out of alcoholism and drug addiction. He works for a Warehouse and lives with a roommate, although he actually comes from a wealthy family. He comes across Britt's art channel and becomes fascinated with her ability. He decides to try his hand at an art project. While acquiring his needed supplies, he meets Britt and a friendship develops.

A sweet slow burn rom-com. The dialogue made me laugh. And the ending, when all the secrets are exposed, was a good conclusion for this story. Forgiveness, second chances, family issues, and reconciliation benchmark this story.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and the author Kathleen Fuller for letting me read & review this advanced book copy. This is a three star opposites attract romance read that comes out Tuesday December 3rd 2024.

Ahh, this was such a cute story 😆😍 I read the whole thing in one night even though I was sick with a cold 😜

I loved that the fmc had social anxiety, and while it’s never been that bad for me, she was really relatable 🥰 Hunter and her first meeting was so awkward yet so adorable!

Their romance was super sweet to read , and I <i>love</i> the second chance romance angle the story takes by the end! So happy about how things ended up for everyone 💛

(I will admit, I couldn’t quite make up my mind as to whether I liked the story or not until I was a good 25%-30% in… I think the pacing is a little off, but if you can push past that, the rest is amazing!!)

This book it’s funny and sweet and loving. The journey and development of the characters is cute and happy. If you like books that give this very sweet and charming vibe this one is for you. There are a lot of heavy topics handled and they were handled with much care and sensitivity.
If you like this types of books this one is definitely for you.
But for me it was not memorable, I didn’t have any moment where I was so enthralled that I could not stop reading or that I was very emotional.
Overall: this book is definitely going to be a hit or miss very much depending on your personality and the seating that you are reading the book. Maybe if I were in a romantic reading spree this book would be in line with those, but I’ve read it after some pretty epic books and I think that helped outshine this one.

If you're looking for a fun sweet romance, this book is for you. It was a fun fluff read (though cheesy at times) and didn't have much depth and really didn't get to fully know the characters. However, I liked how the characters were not flawless - one struggled with anxiety which hit close to home. Some topics were a bit heavy but overall an enjoyable read.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

This is a perfect fit for readers who adore heartwarming, slow-burn romances that explore themes of self-discovery, overcoming anxiety, and the transformative power of true love, with a dash of 70s nostalgia and a healthy dose of humor.

A Delightful Rom-Com with Hidden Depth
Kathleen Fuller's "So Into You" is a delightful rom-com that's perfect for a weekend escape. It initially gives off a Hallmark movie vibe, but it quickly dives deeper into themes of family trauma, old friendships, and budding relationships.

The story follows Brittany Branch, a talented vlogger who struggles with anxiety and a low self-image. Her parents' divorce twenty years ago has left lasting scars, and she's only now starting to reconnect with her father. Hunter Pickett, a handsome recovering alcoholic, has been cast out by his family due to his past behavior.

Fuller skillfully weaves together their stories, exploring the complexities of family dynamics and the healing power of love and forgiveness. While the romance is heartwarming, the novel also tackles deeper issues with sensitivity and insight. The characters' emotions feel real and relatable, and there's a subtle sense of divine intervention at play.

I highly recommend "So Into You" for those seeking a thought-provoking romance novel that goes beyond the surface. It's a captivating story that will leave you hoping for a sequel.

I read this book for free on my #kindle thanks to #NetGalley

I enjoyed this story very much. I have read a few others by this author and she is quickly becoming a favorite of mine to read. I struggled with social anxiety some myself so the story was very relatable and held my attention. I loved how all the characters connected when they all met at the party. So glad I read this book and will recommend it to my friends.

I wasn’t the biggest fan of this book as it ended up not being my vibe BUT I think if you enjoy this sort of genre you would!
The characters situations in my opinion were represented well and the book it’s self was well written!!

Thank you to Net Galley for this arc!

I feel like this book could use some tighter editing - we get descriptions that are incredibly detailed but also simply told to us, and don’t add much to the world or to the character. But it is a cute story about Brit, an artist on social media who’s not quite like other influencers, and lives honestly a pretty small life, reconnecting and learning to trust her alcoholic dad. This is a romance but I think it’s a great reflection for those who feel similarly - like they’re living that smaller life and are in a rut and scared to change things.

Everything is connected… at least when you read So Into You, but you’ll have to read it to find out what I mean.

Britt has a successful YouTube channel teaching art to her subscribers. Britt is a talented artist/graphic artist. But Britt uses her channel to hide because she has crippling social anxiety, and she’s tried several things to help and while they work for a while, she hasn’t found a long-term solution.

Hunter Pickett is working at a warehouse and getting around town on his motorcycle since he has been sober from alcohol and drugs, but this has caused a rift between his family and him.

Hunter sends Britt a couple of DMs since he has been following her channel and one thing leads to another. They decided to meet in person at K & B’s and start growing as people and fighting an attraction toward each other.

If you enjoy reading a six-degree separation vibe you will definitely like this. It was very cute. It was a; take me out of my life read, and I can always get behind a story that will do that. But it has also had some reminders of good communication, second chances, forgiveness, and family themes weaved throughout. Recommended!

My gratitude to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. All opinions expressed are mine and honest.

So Into You by Kathleen Fuller is labeled as a Rom-Com but I don't think this is the right label for this book. This book deals with some heavy issues like alcholism and anxiety. An alternate name for this book could be Keeping Secrets since many of the characters in this book had secrets they did not reveal to those who were close to them. The female lead character Brit has a successful youtube channel where she instructs art techniques. Despite her successs Brit has anxiety issues. She has trouble getting out in the public. Hunter PIckett happened upon her channel by accident and was intriqued so he connects with her. Later on they meet up and form a friendship. Hunter has his own issues. He is a recovering alcoholic who is estranged from his wealthy family. Brit and Hunter have a growing relationship. Brit has a low opinion of herself and finds it hard to believe a good looking guy like Hunter could be interested in her. Both are guilty of keeping secrets. Hunter does not reveal to her that he is estranged from his family because he is a recovering alcoholic. Brit has her own secrets. Her mother does not know that she has re-connected with her father who also is a recovering alcoholic. I mostly liked all the characters in this book. Even Hunter's parents won me over. They just wanted the best for their son. Brit's mother Amy was a bit overbearing. She was over-protective of Brit, treated her like a child and did not respect her daughter's decisions.

I enjoyed this books and looking forward to more contemporary stories from this author who usually writes Amish fiction.

All opionions are my own. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and did not receive compensation.