I'm going to start with I love Elena Armas, Spanish Love Deception was absolute perfection and I've liked her other books. This one fell flat for me.

I did enjoy being back in the same town as the Long Shot and was so excited to read Josie's story. Especially with such an intriguing back story of being engaged 4 times and running away from 3 weddings. I wish those exes had been fleshed out more and they could have popped in.

I wish we had an alternating POV between Josie and Matthew throughout the book. Instead, the first half of the book Matthew seemed like a stiff, boring mannequin instead of us watching him internally falling in love with her as we determine in the second half when he starts to bring on the affection for Josie. Josie was developed fine, but Grandpa Moe and Bobbi Shark seemed like an afterthought. And I wish we had seen more Adalyn and Cam.

The thing that irked me the most was there were two different scenes in the book that ended really abruptly. The first Matthew is taking Josie for some alone time, instead of describing this alone time, the book jumps to the next scene. The second time is when Josie and Matthew drive to Cam and Adalyn's house, sit in the driveway, knock on the door, get invited in... and the next chapter is the next day. We don't hear about what happens at Cam and Adalyn's and both times it seems very disjointed and it messed with the flow of the book for me. Also, it was made so obvious to the reader what was going on with Adalyn, that by the time it was revealed at the end of the book, I thought, how did Josie not pick up on this sooner?

I loved Matthew in the second half, total book boyfriend. Defending Josie, being there for her, and being an overall great guy. I loved when she was weak and he was strong for her, and his affection really shone through in the second half of the book.

2.5 Not for me. I think I just could not suspend disbelief enough to go with the flow. The FMC is billed as a little eccentric, chronically over-generous and spread thin - a very sweet and sympathetic character with a tiny bit of emotional baggage. The premise of this book being that she's just a silly goofy girl, trying to beat the daddy issues allegations, who just happened to leave four fiancees at the alter! This reaaallly doesn't hit for me, doing that just once is downright cruel, not quirky. I found her to be erratic, immature, and oftentimes just plainly selfish towards the people who care about her and then randomly a huge pushover for those least deserving.

So given I'm a bit put off from the jump I might not be the most objective reviewer, but I found that my opinion of her hardly improved. She was constantly putting her own impulses and whims above others, refusing to communicate, not considering the feelings of others, and making bizarre decisions and getting into even more bizarre situations. If none of this bothers you, and you're able to be a very chill and unfazed reader then you may very well enjoy this book! I know I could be a little more relaxed about this, it just was not fun for me.

To illustrate both what I'm talking about and how crazy (perhaps stick in the mud) I myself am being about this; this is the opening scene:
FMC sticks her entire hand into a jar of jam in an effort to get a ring thats stuck on her finger off. Literally why? why jam?? thats not even like a known effective lubricant when I'm sure soap, oil, butter, etc are also in this kitchen. And why stick your whole hand in it!!??? she shares the house/kitchen/groceries!!! Its communal jam! Then she inevitably ends up getting jam all over the kitchen and breaking the jar, glass everywhere, huge mess. Basically she's just non-stop going out of her way to manufacture problems for herself and those around her at increasingly higher stakes and everyone just goes with it! even frequently acts like she's the victim of those situations! I just cant enjoy it. Prepared to accept that thats a me problem tho.

My final complaint is that we get to nearly halfway through the book before the FMC spends truly significant amounts of time with, and has meaningful conversations with the MMC so it's frankly unclear what he sees in her to start. I don't get it, which kind of in turn makes him feel fairly one dimensional. It is; however, made clear by the author that, for whatever reason, he *is* deeply enchanted by her, which is still exciting to read despite being inexplicable. There are definitely some nice and sweet moments that I have to give the author credit for, they're just constantly being interrupted but absurd behavior, choices, and plot developments.

All and all I'll just say not for me, but maybe for you!!! The writing itself isn't terrible and there are some fun and exciting moments.

Thank you @atriabook and @netgalley for the eARC of The Fiancé Dilemma by @thebibliotheque in exchange for an honest review!

📖📖 Book Review 📖📖 While The Fiancé Dilemma is a standalone novel, it does continue a series that I would now love to go back and enjoy more of!! Josie More just can’t seem to catch a break in her small town life in Green Oak, North Carolina. From love to a newly introduced father, it’s a lot to handle. Also down on his luck? Matthew Flanagan who is fleeing from his flailing life and gets stuck in the mud…literally on his arrival in Green Oak. And in no time he and Josie are fake engaged because her messy life does not match well with her new dad’s PR campaign. The only thing that spreads faster than gossip in a small town is news of an engagement, even a fake one! The whole crew is a delightfully colorful cast of characters that will have you in stitches. Josie absolutely owns her hot mess express self, complete with daddy issues and fake fiancé needs in a comical and heartwarming relatable manner. Matthew is a truly lovable character and balances Josie out well. Also, I think we all need a Grandpa Moe in our life. Having not read The Long Game, this was a whirlwind of comedy to catch up to speed but overall, a fun read!

Review is posted on Goodreads and will be on Instagram ahead of the publication date!

I must have read this book at the exact right time because I devoured it. The vibes were vibing so hard and I had the best time reading it. This is easily my new Elena Armas favorite.

Fake engagement? Yes, please. I’ll have it with a side of forced proximity and a lot of mutual pining. Delicious. The tension?! Chef’s kiss. The flirting?! I was screaming, kicking my legs, face hurting from smiling so hard.

I don’t really want to say much more because there’s so many layers that might be spoiled if I do.

I loved Matthew and Josie. I loved seeing Adalyn and Cameron again, and the rest of the small town, too. I loved this book!

Thank you so much, Atria, for this ARC!

Quick intro:
Virtual strangers, Josie and Matthew, enter into a fake engagement to help Josie’s recently discovered birth father avoid a PR nightmare.

Quick thoughts:
I want to start off by saying I loved The Long Game so much and have been looking forward to Matthew and Josie’s story since last fall! They really shone as side characters, but unfortunately I didn’t feel like that sparkle was carried into The Fiancé Dilemma.

There were so many issues with this book. First off, omg where was her editor? It was WAY too long, yet at the same time not much happened. 🤦🏻‍♀️ I also felt that the reason for the fake engagement was really flimsy. Like, your father who you’ve only known for a year is having a PR nightmare so you thought you’d be helpful and fake an engagement to a man you don’t really know and who agreed for whatever reason for some positive PR? Nah. I truly did not understand why Matthew did it until the end and even at that point I would have liked some more backstory.

I never felt like I got to know either of the MCs nor did I care for them. I would have liked more character development for Matthew - he felt pretty boring overall. And from boring he went to oddly possessive - my least favorite characteristic of MMCs. And then with Josie we didn’t get much about her other than she had four failed engagements and daddy issues, but I didn’t feel like those issues were ever fully flushed out.

And finally, I know they had their own book, but I wanted more Adalyn and Cam. As the bestfriend of Matthew and sister of Josie, I would have expected more of Adalyn at least. If you’re going to read either of these books, I’d read The Long Game and skip this one.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Having met Matthew and Josie in "The Long Game", I was very excited to read their story! Considering how big a fan I am of Elena Armas' works, I had high expectations for this one, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

Josie, our FMC, is a sweet, somewhat harebrained individual who has recently learned of her biological father's identity. And with that knowledge, she's had to deal with some added complications to her already somewhat messy life; i.e. the fact that she's been engaged four times in the past.

Matthew, our MMC, is sweet and affectionate and incredibly kind. And he is the real star of this story! He, too, has had to deal with some recent complications in his life, but it doesn't deter him from agreeing to Josie's crazy proposal.

When her father's PR Strategist shows up at her doorstep and misinterprets the presence of an engagement ring on her finger, Josie impulsively lets her believe that Matthew is her fiancé. For some bizarre reason, Matthew decides to go along with it. I will say that if you haven't read The Long Game, their relationship is somewhat plausible as Matthew is Josie's sister's best friend.

From their very first interaction, their chemistry is undeniable. Despite it being their first time meeting in person, there's a sort of ease in their relationship that pulls you right in. Matthew is the epitome of a supportive and sweet fiancé. And without her knowledge, Josie finds herself letting him in. Before they know it, the lines between fake and real are blurred and they find themselves facing an unexpected dilemma. How does their now very real relationship impact their original deal?

"I think I've just met your soulmate."

"You're my reward, Baby Blue."

Okay, but seriously, don't walk, RUN! Meeting Matthew is something that you will never regret! This story just feels like one giant hug and will keep you smiling from ear-to-ear from beginning to end!

4.5 ⭐️

This book captivated me from the first page to the last. As someone who admires the author's storytelling prowess, I'm thrilled to share this literary gem with the patrons of my bookstore. With its compelling characters, rich narrative, and thought-provoking themes, I'm confident that it will resonate with readers of all tastes. I eagerly anticipate the discussions and connections it will spark among our community of book lovers.

I think I’ll always enjoy Elena Armas’ books. They combine cheesy, cute, and bring serious notes throughout. They always make me happy.

I do have to say the beginning got me heated since I instantly didn’t like Bobbi and was ready to cuss her out on behalf of Josie. I had the same view as Matthew that none of this is Josie’s problem- sounds like an Andrew problem and let him dig himself out of the hole he dug. The amount of second hand embarrassment I had in the initial meeting of Matthew, Bobbi, and Josie got to me but the laughs I got out of this book measured more. Moe Poe was probably my favorite character out of the whole book and I honestly wish we got to see more of him.

I don’t know why but this book did seem to move faster that the others which makes sense as they didn’t have a lot of time to plan the wedding but it seemed like they fell really fast, maybe too fast? I feel like I’m explaining that poorly.

I also wanted to point out that the quote at the end of chapter 11– loved it.

I received an eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is officially my favorite of Elena Armas. To be honestly, Elena's first 3 books have not been enjoyable to me. I felt that there was something missing. To be honest, I still feel there's a missing piece with Josie and Matthew also, but it's the first one were I felt the connection, the chemistry, the longing. Definitely my top pick out of all her books. Hopefully, her next ones meet it as well

Ahhh, this was a really refreshing way to go back to the town of Green Oak.

Josephine is a delight and I love how amazingly positive she is in the face of some real trauma. And Matthew? Well I knew I liked him in The Long Game, so I was really pleased to see him get his moment to shine in this book.

A glasses-wearing, protective, golden retriever? Love it. Add in a little he falls first and I’m a goner.

Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced copy!

Josie's father is a very rich man and her messy relationships make him looks bad. Matthew pretends to be her fiance to make her look better.

Josie and Matthew have some terrific chemistry. I love their relationship. Matthew is so sweet. There are of course some sexy scenes because it is a romance. It's a fast-paced romance with a happy ending.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.

I wanted more from this story. I didn't get swept away and invested in the characters like I hoped I would. The cover is fantastic, so that's a plus! I'll still read what Armas writes next. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Three stars.

First of all, thank you to Atria Publicity for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. So I’ve always loved Elena Armas books but until this point my favorite was easily The American Roommate Experiment. It has been dethroned. IT STARTED WITH PINING BEFORE THEY EVER MET?? FAKE ENGAGED?? HE GIVES HER HIS GRANDMOTHERS CLADDAGH RING? THE RING BECOMES A MAJOR PLOT POINT?? THEY UNDERSTAND ONE ANOTHER SO DEEPLY AND ARE THE ONLY PERSON THE OTHER WANTS TO GO TO WHEN THEYRE HURTING?? THE PAPPARAZZI ARE STALKING HER AND HE GETS SUPER PROTECTIVE?? the FLIRTING?? I could go on and on and on but if I tell much more I’ll be spoiling this fantastic book when I could let you discover how amazing it is for yourself. So PLEASE go read this book the moment it comes out. I’ll be sitting here waiting until then.

This book is a must-read for fans of small-town romance looking for a heartwarming story. Also, as someone whose childhood favorite was the movie “Runaway Bride,” reading this book was like coming back to that feeling of butterflies from my childhood.

I love how Elena Armas writes, very smoothly, consistently, and you just know that you won’t be disappointed. You don’t need to be nervous about finding unnecessary drama because it simply won’t be found.

We have everything in perfect proportions:
- He falls first
- Soulmates
- No third-act breakup
- Found family
- Sisters bond

Josie (FMC) is the sweetest girl in the world who has been wronged too many times by men, including her father. Matthew (MMC) is a direct blondie with hot looks who found himself in this new town to understand what life can give him.

They have their ups and downs throughout the book. Josie is learning that she can lean on him, and that he won’t leave her. Sometimes the trauma of the main heroes is hitting a little too close to home. I understood Josie so well and was immensely happy when she found peace and allowed Matthew to become a part of her life.

Overall, this book is a perfect mix of romance, community, self-discovery, sexual tension, and spice, making it a good small-town romance. Don’t forget about the precious comebacks of Adalyn alongside Cameron and I was so happy to know what awaits this couple in the near future.

I absolutely adore Elena Armas' writing style, her charming book covers, and especially her captivating characters! It was a delight to delve back into the Long Game universe where supporting characters like Josie - Adalyn's stepsister - and Matthew - Adalyn's writer bestie - got their own story. This is where we get to explore the romance between Josie and Matthew in more depth.

While this sequel may not be flawless, we are left wanting more insight into the reasons behind Josie's behavior, such as her issues with her father, trust, and abandonment that led her to become a Runaway Bride after four failed engagements. Additionally, I wished we had the chance to read Matthew's point of view earlier in the book, as he was a lovable character in Long Game. His supportive nature, rationality, and endearing friendship with a star crush on Cameron (reminiscent of a grumpy Roy Kent) made him a great book boyfriend. I would have liked to learn more about his thoughts and the qualities that made him so enchanting to his partner. Nevertheless, he remained caring, lovable, and charming throughout, never failing to impress the readers.

On the other hand, Josie, the sweet, girl-next-door with small-town charm, had already captured our hearts with her kindness, selflessness, and a blend of innocence and intelligence that made her a fighter. Both main characters were endearing, and the appearances of Grandpa Mo/Maurice in the chapters added a touch of humor and warmth to the story.

One of the highlights for me was the sizzling chemistry between Josie and Matthew, which added a fiery intensity to each chapter, making it a steamy and captivating read. Matthew Flanagan truly shines as a swoon-worthy character, and Elena Armas delivered a delightful story.

While this may not be a formal review, I felt compelled to share my thoughts. It's important to remember that reading preferences are subjective. Personally, I enjoy Elena Armas' works for their humor, charm, and a hint of cheesiness - exactly what I look for in a romcom!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!

I didn’t love this book. The story felt too formulaic and the characters didn’t have much about them that I hadn’t seen in any other characters. There was nothing that made me really want to read more and follow their story to their happy ending.

4.5 stars

What can I say other than that I love Matthew?? He is one of the sweetest, most caring mmc’s I’ve read. He was so down bad for Josie and I loved all their interactions (Josie was also absolutely down bad for him). They were so clearly in love but kept trying to pretend it was all fake.
They had phenomenal chemistry and communication and I fell in love them more and more throughout the book.
The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star book for me was because there were a lot of time jumps where something that seemed important would happen at the end of the chapter but then the next one would pick up days later and not acknowledge it.
I also am personally not a huge mixed-media fan and a lot of this story was told through a transcript of a podcast which I didn’t love. But even if that’s also not your vibe don’t let this stop you from reading the book because the rest of it is just so sweet and fun.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria for the ARC!!

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria books for the ARC of this one. All opinions in my review are my own!

I've read all of Elena Armas' books so I was very excited to get a copy of this one. It was delightful from cover to cover. The book reminded me a lot of the Julia Roberts movie, Runaway Bride which was super fun from a nostalgic point of view. The main character, Josie had been engaged to be married 4 times and had never actually gone through with a wedding. She is the child of a single mom who passed away when she was a teenager and never knew her dad until he blew into her life as an adult bringing along a sister she never knew about. Her dad is a high powered and public name in Miami and when details of her multiple engagements get leaked to the press, she decides to think on her feet and pretend to be engaged to her sister's best friend. Matthew is just out of a job and crashing at his friend's house when he shows up in town to the chaos that is Josie's life. He agrees to team up with her and pretend to be engaged and in the process they start a very real relationship.

The banter is super fun and the characters are all so likeable. You'll love this one of you love authors like Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez and similar.

I would like to thank Atria Books eGalley and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!!

Oh wow I was so honoured to have received an ARC of this book I literally squealed🤭 this book was all kinds of adorable and heartfelt in all the right places🥺 Matthew was the sweetest man ever in this book and never EVER gave up on Josie no matter how hard she tried to push him away. I loved how he kept just being there.. and when she got a panic attack and all she asked for was him? He did not even hesitate to leave where he was to run to her to be there for her and hug and comfort her.. what started off as a fake engagement turned out to be something so beautiful for the both of them and I love LOVED reading this🥺 I enjoyed “The Long Game” so i knew this was also gonna be a good one🫶🏻

4/5 stars

i am speechless. i laughed, screamed, and couldn’t stop grinning through this whole book.

tropes:
- fake engagement
- small town romance
- witty banter
- no third act breakup (matthew’s a persistent one)
- wild child fmc (she’s so goofy)
- sisters best friend
- interconnect series

i can’t imagine a more perfect person for josie than matthew; he’s patient, deals with her crazy, is witty (and handsy), and just overall loving. i cannot articulate my feelings for this book, all i can say is you’ll love it. do not miss out on this book, it was unique and captivating.

between the funny side character’s, and the general chaos josie brings to the table, ‘The Fiance Dilemma’ is a witty small-town romance, that keeps readers captivated from page one.

josie is a bit of a train-wreck, she is funny, bubbly, and endlessly kind. matthew, is the right man at the right time, he is easy going, effortlessly funny, and pretty much here for the ride. from the beginning matthew seems infatuated with josie, and it’s clear he can’t seem to stay away from the girl covered in jam running down the driveway pretending they’re in love.

thank you Elena Armas and Atria Books for this ARC copy of ‘The Fiancé Dilemma’ in exchange for an honest review. I read this in two days, and could not put it down!