Many thanks to Netgalley and Atria Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

When you think of a RomCom this is the type of book that comes to mind. This was such a cute book. The characters were likeable and charming. Josie and Matthew had such great chemistry and I loved their story. This is the second book I have read from this author and I think I am becoming a fan. Recommended for those who like fake dating, runaway bride, and small town romance.

Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️ (0-5)
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall: 3/5
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5) I usually bump up for public places/outdoor spaces, but it’s one of only a few steamy scenes (with lovely details) so I’ll leave it at three.

What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The characterization is written very well.
🤩 I liked the MMC, but I’m on the fence about the FMC.
🤩 Brittany Pressley is a fabulous narrator. She changes her voice well for conversations and is enjoyable to listen to.

What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 Do not choose this audiobook for your Zachary Webber fix—he only narrated one chapter.
💫 Fake is usually my favorite, but the whole reason behind this fake engagement just wasn’t my favorite, all wound up in weird daddy issues.
💫 There’s an overall feeling of miscommunication/misunderstanding that annoys me about this book.
💫 The slow-burn has slow-burn that I’m just not sure I believe. Then all of the sudden it’s not slow burning anymore—the timing is surprising.
💫 I would have liked this to have been written with more standalone characteristics. There were times I was confused even having read The Long Game. I think readers might be extra confused if they haven’t read the first book in the Green Oak series.

Elena Armas is truly a master of her craft! The Fiancé Dilemma altered my brain chemistry, and I want nothing more in this universe but to find a man like Matthew. This story was a slow burn, and it was SWOONWORTHY!! She does a great job of developing Josie and Matthew's love story and honestly this one will have you laughing and crying, and all around this is a feel good book!

Such a cute, fun read! Super easy to digest, too. I'd describe this book as a charming and heartfelt romcom. I loved the chemistry between Josie and Matthew, since Josie was more quirky and impulsive while Matthew had a more steady and protective demeanor. Overall, I've been a fan of Elena Armas for a while and love how she writes.

I love Elena Armas & her spicy romances & this one doesn't disappoint for a quick read. Definitely has some Runaway Bride vibes & some moments where I questioned the characters & their decision making - but all in all I enjoyed the book which is the whole point of reading in my opinion. Did I have fun while reading this? Did I finish the book with a small and some laughs along the way? Yup :)

I slept on this one for a good while, but it ended up being a super cute read. I enjoyed the two main characters and following their unconventional love story.

The Fiancé Dilemma by Elena Armas is a charming and heartfelt romantic comedy that delves into themes of self-discovery, love, and the complexities of family dynamics. Set in the picturesque small town of Green Oak, North Carolina, the story centers on Josie Moore, a spirited and endearing protagonist known for her four previous failed engagements. Her life takes an unexpected turn when a misunderstanding leads her to introduce Matthew Flanagan, her half-sister Adalyn’s best friend, as her fiancé. Matthew, recently unemployed and seeking a fresh start, agrees to the charade, setting the stage for a delightful exploration of fake dating and the blurred lines between pretense and genuine affection.  

Armas masterfully crafts the chemistry between Josie and Matthew, making their evolving relationship both believable and engaging. Josie’s quirky and impulsive nature contrasts beautifully with Matthew’s steady and protective demeanor, creating a dynamic that is both humorous and deeply touching. The narrative is enriched by the vibrant community of Green Oak, whose residents add depth and charm to the story, enhancing the small-town atmosphere that fans of the genre will appreciate. 

Overall, The Fiancé Dilemma is a delightful read that combines the allure of a small-town romance with the complexities of personal growth and familial expectations. Elena Armas delivers a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance.

This was a fun read, love that the Armas humor is alive and well! The couple was fun a I like that we stayed in the same universe as her other books. I didn't really care for the daddy storyline to be honest. Otherwise, this was a great story.

something about this story was just too convenient? i wanna say? there’s something to be said about romances being formulaic but reading this i could SEE the outline and that took me right tf out.

I think the only issue I had with was the beginning; it did seem a bit far fetched, making it harder to focus on the story being told. however, Armas has such cozy, comfortable and humourous writing, its near impossible to not enjoy. The chemistry between Josie and Matthew is great, and watching them navigate the small-town drama and growing feelings is both entertaining and heartwarming

3.75 rounded up

It was fun revisiting these characters, and this fun little town. This is a book with two green flags, thrown into a fake engagement situation because Josie is forever trying to help everyone around her. Including the father that has failed to be apart of her life, since forever. Matthew agrees to help temporarily, but it ends up being a lot less temporary than expected. This was a really sweet story about growth and finally learning to take care of yourself.

well crafted slow burn romance and I definitely enjoyed this one! For the readers who love a fun romance cute read then this one is for you!

I was immediately put off by the writing in this book, every paragraph made me cringe like "bam-bam in the ham" what in the world????

The Fiancé Dilemma by Elena Armas was a fun, lighthearted romance. The fake fiancé trope kept me entertained, and the chemistry between the characters was undeniable. It had some predictable moments, but I still found myself invested in their story. A sweet, enjoyable read for rom-com fans!

I tried. I really did. But I couldn’t get through this. I found it very unrelatable and that caused me to kind of space out and glaze over certain scenes. I truly truly hate saying bad things about books because who am I to judge a book that someone else may absolutely love? But overall, this was just so cheesy that I was genuinely growing frustrated and found myself rolling my eyes multiple times.

The me a year or two ago would have EATEN. THIS. UP. But over the last year I’ve felt my reading style changing and very unfortunately I just don’t think a lot of the fluffy romances land with me anymore. I truly truly hope
other readers LOVE this book, unfortunately I’m not one of them :(

Baby Blue is probably my favorite nickname of any book ever at this point.

This book is exactly how I imagine The Bolter & The Prophecy by Taylor Swift.

Absolutely brilliant and so much emotional depth.

I am currently 60% done with this book and I just can’t do it anymore. The constant repeating of the same things over and over are almost making me gag. I get it. You like his glasses. Good lord. Move on. Which is what I’m doing. Thank you, next. DNF.

Well I finished it. The constant repeating doesn’t change. She talks about his glasses throughout the entire book! Also the pet names/ nicknames keep getting worse. I am not one for yucky pet names for your partner. Especially during spicier scenes.

I was however, not ready for the spice in this book. The food tasting scene will be living rent free in my mind now. Thank you for that, Elena!

The audiobook version of this book did make it easier to get through. Reading the words glasses over and over was hard. Listening to the narrator saying it was less hard.

3 stars. Book was good otherwise. I will be continuing to read her books.

This romantic comedy shines with its two leads, who share undeniable chemistry; and while the storyline is somewhat predictable without major twists, the slow-burn romance is well-crafted and enjoyable.

The supporting characters add plenty of humor, enhancing the story’s playful and lighthearted feel.

The author maintains her signature style with a breezy tone and quick, engaging dialogue that keeps the reader hooked.

Overall, this is a great choice for anyone seeking a cozy romantic comedy. Despite some pacing fluctuations, the lovable characters and easygoing narrative make it a delightful, feel-good read.

I enjoyed this book overall but there was something about it that kept me from loving like Armas’ other books. It definitely still a must read for fans of “The Long Game” but won’t be one that I feel the need to revisit.

Elena Armas’s The Fiancé Dilemma is a captivating and heartwarming romance novel that blends humor, emotion, and irresistible chemistry. Known for her engaging storytelling and dynamic characters, Armas once again delivers a story that will keep readers entertained from start to finish.
The novel follows the protagonist as she navigates the complexities of a fake engagement that quickly spirals into an emotional rollercoaster. What begins as a practical arrangement soon becomes complicated as genuine feelings emerge, leading to moments of both laughter and heartache. Armas expertly captures the tension and vulnerability of the characters, making their journey feel authentic and relatable.

One of the novel’s standout features is its character development. The protagonist is charming and witty, while her love interest is equally compelling with his own emotional depth and struggles. Their interactions are filled with sharp banter and tender moments that make their relationship both believable and endearing.

Armas’s writing style is engaging and immersive, with vivid descriptions and well-paced dialogue that draw readers into the story. The novel also explores themes of self-discovery, trust, and the importance of being true to one’s heart, adding depth to the romantic plot.

Overall, The Fiancé Dilemma is a delightful and satisfying read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance. With its lovable characters, humorous situations, and heartfelt moments, Elena Armas delivers a novel that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.