I loved the first book in this series so I was really excited for Matthew and Josie's book.

THE FIANCÉE DILEMMA is a very slow burn, sister's best friend, small town, fake relationship book. I loved Matthew's character, but Josie was hard for me. She is very much a doormat who stays a doormat the entire book.

Matthew's character is directly responsible for everything good in this read. All of the other characters are a bit one dimensional, including the 2 characters I adored from the previous book.

And while I understand that books can be inspired by other well-known media, THE FIANCÉE DILEMMA was way too close to the film Runaway Bride. Just replace eggs with wedding venues. IYKYK.

Having said that, the chemistry between these characters was as hot as the eventual steamy scenes and Matthew is a book boyfriend you will absolutely adore.

SPICE LEVEL: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive sex scenes, may have harsh language.
CONTENT WARNING: past parent affair, death of parent
FEELS: 3/5 - You will definitely feel some feels.

A very cute book, quick read and definitely a book that made me want to cheer for a happy ending. Love, fake love and family drama pull you in from the beginning.

I liked this book but I didn't love it. It was funny for sure but it didn't wow me. Will I read other books by Elena Armas, absolutely!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️

I received this book as an arc but didn't get a chance to read it until the day it released, and boy do I regret waiting. This is my new favorite Elena Armas book!

We've got it all:
*small town
*fake engagement
*sister's best friend
*wedding planning shenanigans
*daddy issues
*hot guy in glasses
*sexual tension x 1000 (see: hot guy in glasses)
*nosy neighbors
*cute farm animals

Josie is great. She is the mayor of the town and cares deeply, and she never shuts the F up. I mean that in the best way possible.

Matthew is swoooooon-worthy. He's come to town to stay in Cam's empty lodge whilst looking sexy and wearing glasses. This dude would walk on hot coals to get Josie to look at him. His world literally revolves around her. But never fear - besides his winning personality he obviously also has an 8 pack and sexily jumps rope shirtless. This IS a romance book after all!

Thanks to netgalley for the arc

A people pleaser, Josie finds herself in an impossible situation when faced with her newfound father's publicist. Thankfully, Matthew unexpectedly shows up in the nick of time to save the day, even if it's to play her fake fiancé.

I had high hopes for The Fiancé Dilemma because I loved Josie's character in The Long Game, the first book in this series. She was fun and lively, and everyone seemed to love her. When reading this book, I quickly realized that the backstory for Josie was a sad one, and the reason everyone loved her was because of the sacrifices she made in so many areas of her life.

Something I struggled with was Matthew's character. I felt like I never really connected with him and who he was or whether he would be a good match for Josie - maybe this would have come through stronger with a couple of chapters from his perspective, but then again, I am a sucker for multiple perspectives.

The heat in this book was 🥵 but also a little awkward. Josie and Matthew's attraction to one another is palpable a lot of the time, and they don't seem to mind some PDA… or PDO, if you know what I mean. 😉

Overall, I liked the story, but I felt like something was missing for me.

Thank you, Elena Armas, Atria Books, and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review this book!

this book was kind of a slow start for me! I enjoyed it, but didn't really love it. I do love Elena's other books and I love her writing style but this just wasn't for me! I will be recommending it because the was cute and sweet moments!

3 stars.

"The Fiance Dilemma" by Elena Armas is.... fine. It's not the worst book I've ever read, but it's not the best, either. It is a small-town romance featuring an ever-evolving fake dating scheme where he falls first (and may have been in love for quite some time??). As with all of Armas's novels, there is some good banter here and there, as well as some decent spice. At its essence, though, there is hardly a reason for Josie and Matthew, the main characters, to like each other, let alone pretend to love each other. Josie is supposed to be this strong, independent main female character who is a sort of jack-of-all-trades in her town (she's apparently the mayor!), but she comes off as way too manic pixie dream girl. You know what I mean, you know the type: quirky for the sake of quirk because without it, she would have no personality. Matthew is supposed to be daddy AF, but I didn't get that from him at all. He has apparently kept tabs on Josie for a while because he is her sister's best friend, and that's the only thing standing in this book's way from being insta-love. No, I take it back, even with this premise, it's *still* insta-love-y (derogatory). When Matthew gets coerced into agreeing to be Josie's fiance, he does so willingly..... because feelings! It's sort of a mess, and all of this is before we get into the plot line about how her father, Andrew, has sent a PR representative to her town to throw her a lavish wedding to make up for the years of fatherly neglect and pain. Big-time daddy issues abound, which I am not averse to reading about, but she lets these people she swears she doesn't care about (and frankly doesn't know) bully her into a wedding she doesn't want for....????? reasons! And she's expected to save her dad from an impending PR nightmare when she literally just found out about him?!? Uhhhh, NO??????!!!! This book unfolds so freaking slowly, but simultaneously, happens way too fast! The important stuff whizzes by in a flash, while the unimportant details seem to linger for pages and chapters. It's way too rushed where it needed to takes its time, and way too lazily paced where it doesn't count. A mixed bag for me. Nothing to do with the book itself per se, but the cover makes it look like a "why choose" novel when, in reality, several of Josie's exes have nothing to do with this story apart from being mentioned.

Thank you to NetGalley, Elena Armas, and Atria Books for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

"The Fiancé Dilemma" by Elena Armas is a slow burn romance that delivers equal parts laughs and swoon-worthy moments. Sometimes the best part about a slow burn romance is the building tension between the two romantic leads. In this case, the “will they or won’t they” energy between Matthew and Josie as they try to sell their fake engagement is the cherry on top of this delightful romance. The fireworks really kick into gear when they finally drop the charade with each other, and it is so, so good.

Having read all of Elena Armas's books, I can confidently say that Matthew may be my favorite lead of hers yet. Josie has been through the relationship wringer, with many failed attempts at making it down the aisle with other men. Yet, Matthew doesn't buy into characterizing her as a "runaway bride" like everyone else does. Instead, he faces all her fears head-on and always has her back, which is incredibly refreshing and endearing.

However, I do wish we had explored more of the reasoning behind Josie’s failed relationships. This missing element could have added more depth to her character and given us a better understanding of her struggles and growth throughout the story.

Another plus to this book? The colourful cast of side characters that add some quirky charm… characters like Grandpa Moe really bring extra layers of humor and heart to the story, making it even more enjoyable.

Overall, I had such a fun time with "The Fiancé Dilemma." It's definitely a read worth adding to your summer beach bag. If you're looking for a romance that combines tension, humor, and heartfelt moments, this one is for you.

*E-ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Josie Moore has been “always the bride, never the wife” having been previously engaged 4 times but jilted by the groom each time. Her billionaire father plans to publish a tell-all book and considers Josie a PR problem. What's a girl to do? Fake Fiancé! That is one of my favorite tropes when it is done well. Elena Armas doesn't doing it amazingly, however. Her books a fast paced, entertaining, and high on comedy, but the writing style and character development leave a lot to be desired. This one was just ok to me.

I cannot believe it took me this long to read an Elena Armas book. This was a fun one! Although at times it felt a bit predictable and cheesy, it is the perfect palette cleanser after a heavier read. The spice was chef’s kiss too. I was definitely swooning for Matthew from the moment he came into the picture. Grab this one if you are in the mood for a funny and spicy rom-com. Now headed to read more Elena!

Happy release week to ‘The Fiancé Dilemma’ by Elena Armas!🌷⭐️📖
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Thanks to @netgalley, @atriabooks and @thebibliotheque for allowing me a sneak peek at this one. It was cute! 🐐🐐🐐
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Complicated family dynamics, fake relationship, runaway bride, sibling’s best friend…so many things happen in this book! I was here for all of them. 👏🥰
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If you are looking for a new release, go grab a copy now! 📗
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#netgalley #netgalleyreads #elenaarmas #thefiancedilemma #getlitwithaimee #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #bookreview

I have read two of the previous books by Elena Armas and adored them both. I have not read The Long Game and went into this book knowing it could be read as a standalone. I did really like this book; however, I think it could have been more enjoyable and easier to follow if I had read the previous title. First of all, the main characters had me hooked within the first two chapters. I loved the quick wit and banter between them. Secondly, Grandpa Moe is hilarious. How can you not instantly just connect with him and his personality? He had the perfect amount of comedic relief when needed. The main dislike/con for me is that I wish there was more backstory for certain aspects of Josie. Her "daddy issues" and previous fiancés were reasoning for why she made several of the decisions in the story, but I just kept feeling like I needed and wanted more depth on those parts of her life. Why did the previous engagements end?? There just wasn't much detail on that for me. It may have felt unnecessary to the overall story, but I kept finding myself wanting to truly understand more of her past. I also think It would have been more enjoyable if the reader was able to get Matthew's point of view. Overall, it is a cute rom com with small town vibes and a great MMC. It is not my favorite from Armas, but I do look forward to reading future releases from her.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC.

I don't think Elena Armas is for me. I've tried reading a few and they've all be good but not great. They never wow me. I wanted to love this so much, though.

Thank you NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

I'm an Elena Armas stan through and through and this book did not disappoint. I will read anything she likes and it will always be a slow-burn adventure. I loved the fake-relationship aspect, as it's one of my favorite tropes. Highly enjoyed.

The Fiancé Dilemma was an easy read and a quirky romance. Josie, the female main character, is very down to earth and relatable. She has had four prior engagements before the one in the book takes place. Her "fake" fiancé, Matthew, is very charming, sweet and always there for Josie. While I do like the dynamics of the main characters, I felt that they lacked chemistry at times. Especially, when the beginning of the book has them falling for each other very rapidly.

However, I found the "Fiancé Dilemma" to be a lighthearted and cute read. Perfect for summer reading or any other time when you need a pick me up. Thank you to Netgalley and Atria Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

THE FIANCÉ DILEMMA was a cute book with great characters and some laugh out loud moments. Really enjoyed the fake engagement plot and how it evolved the stories over time. Wish it was a bit shorter though, as it took way too long to wrap up.

Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for the opportunity to read and review THE FIANCÉ DILEMMA.

4.5 ⭐️ I had read and absolutely loved The long game so I went into this with high expectations. I was expecting Josie to be quirky but even knowing that, it took me a moment to get use to her never ending internal dialogue. She is hilarious but can be a lot.

Matthew on the other hand swept me right off my feet! I am now obsessed with him. I feel like I need a Matthew on my side from whenever I need to be talked off the ledge or I need to be distracted. 🥰 IYKYK

You can expect a slow burn but in the most delicious way. The tension building between these two is almost unbearable. That bath tub scene before they get interrupted. 🔥🫠 The fact that he likes to take charge almost did me in.

Read if you love quirky, charming small towns & slow burn.

I was given an ARC of this book and my opinions are my own.

Ohhh this was such a fun book to read. I was so happy to be transported back to the small town of Green Oaks. This is the second book in the series (but could be read as a standalone) and I enjoyed catching up with a few of the characters from The Long Game. The story is told almost entirely from Josie’s POV. She is 29 years old and she’s been engaged four times. To avoid another PR nightmare, Josie fakes being engaged to Matthew. Matthew was recently fired from his job and after taking a wrong turn and car issues he finds himself stuck in Green Oaks. He basically has no choice and goes along with the fake engagement. Elena’s writing is witty and I enjoyed seeing how Josie and Matthew’s relationship progressed. I loved the way they supported and care for one another.
Read if you like:
💒Small town vibes
💒Fake engagement
💒Sister’s best friend
💒He falls first
💒Slow burn romance

5⭐️ | 2.5🌶

What to expect:
~ Fake engagement
~ Sister’s best friend
~ Small town
~ Slow burn
~ He falls first
~ Her 5th chance at love
~ Spicy!!!

Review:
I’ve been a fan of Elena Armas’ work for a while now and I was so thrilled when I got approved for this arc!

‘The Fiancé Dilemma’ by is a delightful romance and perfect for hopeless romantics who love a slow burn. Even though it's the second in a series, this one could be read as a standalone.

We follow Josie, who finds herself in a tricky situation when her estranged, high-profile father reenters her life. Josie's history of multiple engagements becomes a PR problem, especially when gossip sites start digging into her past. A misunderstanding leads her father's PR strategist to believe she's engaged again, so Josie asks her sister's best friend, Matthew, to pretend to be her fiancé…HER FAKE FIANCÉ!

Josie and Matthew's chemistry is electric, and their journey from fake dating to something real is heartwarming. I loved how they were vulnerable with each other, navigating their situation with care and understanding. The slow burn builds beautifully, and the lack of miscommunication or third act break-up makes it one of my favourites till date. While the setup for the fake engagement felt a bit forced initially, the story truly shines once the romance kicks in!

I really enjoyed that the story was told solely from Josie's perspective, leaving us to figure out Matthew's feelings on our own. He's a wonderful character—an absolute flirt who genuinely enjoyed spending time with Josie. I've never found a blonde man with glasses so appealing before, and he is definitely taking one of the top spots on my fictional boyfriends list!

Overall, this book is sweet and full of heart, making it a must-read for those looking for a wholesome love story.

Well, this absolutely worked for me, but Elena's book usually do. To me, the perfect dose of schmedium burn that I can deal with since slow burn (which this wasn't) don't usually work for me. There was just so much to love in The Fianceé Dilemma and it delivers in spades.

Matthew was an absolute win for me and really sets the bar for book boyfriends. An absolute romantic and truly the sweetest. Loved him for Josie.

While Josie hasn't had the best run of things, I loved following along with her personal story and just seeing her growth. Her father truly can go suck an egg, I'm sure he meant well, but the damage kept coming it felt like. A little too late, if I might say. Matthew was the ultimate support, fake relationship or not, he was always in her corner. I loved that.

Wins all around for me, I think I'll go back and re-read!

4.25/5

To say i loved it, is an understatement. I'm actually adding adalyn & cams book to my tbr right now because i loved their chemistry. plus, i love grumpy men.
This book had me laughing, i'm not even going to lie. I'm quite upset we didn't get more of moes insults! they had me dying of laughter in the middle of the night. and it also had me crying, near the end of the book i was in tears. i was so captivated i didn't know what was going on around me.
the spice was refreshing, it wasn't too much and it was built up amazingly, i like how it wasn't just there, how the tension built up. and my god do i need more protective matthew.