By Callum 
When I first picked up Meet You in the Middle by Devon Daniels, I wasn’t expecting politics to feel… romantic. But that’s exactly what this book manages to do — blending banter, ideology, and undeniable chemistry into a story that feels both timely and delightfully escapist.
A romance in the heart of Washington
Set against the buzzing backdrop of Capitol Hill, the novel follows Kate Adams, a fiercely idealistic Senate staffer determined to make a difference, and Ben Mackenzie, a polished, conservative aide who believes just as strongly in his own principles.
They’re on opposite sides of the aisle — literally and figuratively. When Kate’s bill on affordable childcare meets opposition from Ben’s office, the two clash instantly. Meetings turn into debates, debates turn into pranks, and before long, those sparks of frustration start to shift into something warmer.
Banter, tension, and a bit of heart
If you love witty dialogue and slow-burn tension, Meet You in the Middle delivers in spades. The exchanges between Kate and Ben are snappy and often laugh-out-loud funny, full of that sharp energy that reminds you of early-2000s rom-coms.
But underneath the humor, Devon Daniels weaves in questions about perspective — how we listen, how we judge, and whether love can exist in a space built on division. The book doesn’t try to solve politics; instead, it uses the backdrop to explore empathy and connection.
What stood out
One of the strongest parts of the novel is Kate’s voice. She’s passionate and occasionally stubborn, but you can’t help rooting for her. Ben, meanwhile, could’ve easily become a stereotype, but Daniels makes him surprisingly grounded — thoughtful, even charming once the walls come down.
The pacing is breezy, with short chapters and realistic work scenes that feel cinematic. You can practically picture this as a Netflix film: city lights, late-night coffee runs, elevator tension, and that inevitable “we’re stuck working together” moment.
A few quibbles
While the chemistry shines, the politics themselves are treated lightly. Readers looking for a deeply ideological exploration might find it surface-level. Some of the arguments resolve a bit too neatly, and the romantic turnaround happens faster than expected.
Still, the book never pretends to be something it’s not. Meet You in the Middle isn’t a political treatise — it’s a rom-com about learning to meet halfway, even when the world tells you you’re supposed to stay divided.
Final thoughts
Devon Daniels has crafted a debut that feels fresh, hopeful, and satisfyingly modern. It’s sharp without being cynical, romantic without being sappy.
If you loved The Hating Game or The Rosie Project, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll close the book feeling that even the most opposite people can find common ground — not through agreement, but through understanding.