I came incredibly close to DNFing this book at 40%, but I enjoyed the second half of this book much more than the first. This book will work well for a lot of people, particularly fans of classic romcom movies. This writing was easy to consume and inobtrusive, the voice was fun.

The reason I struggled with the beginning is the same reason I struggle with a lot of classic romcoms—the "it started as a trick/prank/assignment, but then I actually fell for you" set-up feels cruel and condescending, and makes me deeply uncomfortable. I'd hoped from the book's description that Eli would be upfront with Peter from the beginning, and I struggled to keep going when I realized that wasn't the case.

I had a lot of issues with Eli that I needed to see addressed properly—his constant condescension to Peter and using him however benefits himself, his resentment of his work for not being what he wants it to be, but refusing to apply for other jobs—and for the most part they were. The book didn't shy away from confronting all of the ways in which Eli fucked up, and I appreciated that, although I still don't know that I can get over how careless Eli was.

Some of things that angered me the most (with vague spoilers) were:
-Eli explicitly thinks of himself as "fixing" Peter
-He pushes for Peter to open up about vulnerable and traumatizing moments in his past, while simultaneously writing an article about how much of a loser Peter is
-His internal monologue treats Peter like a little kid or a dog he's training
-He makes fun of Peter's struggle to understand sarcasm and social cues
-He also made every step forward in any sort of physical intimacy, while still lying to Peter
-It feels like an incredibly unbalanced dynamic, where Eli used Peter to improve his situation at work, to spite his ex, to get his mom/friends off his back, etc. and then acts like it's for Peter's benefit

Having finished the book, I have mixed feelings on Eli. I feel like I understand him. In several ways, I relate to the things he struggled with. But I still hate the way that manifested in how he treated the people around him, and I can't get over that enough to root for him.

I mostly kept reading for Peter, whom I adored, and I'm glad I did, because even though I have mixed feelings on Eli, I did want to see Peter's happy ending. Once I crossed the halfway point, I flew the rest of the book, and I think I genuinely enjoyed it, despite my complicated feelings for Eli.

This book really feels like a classic romcom to me, because by the end I was happy and having a good time, but I still spent much of the set-up uncomfortable and frustrated.

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days meets She’s All That. When Eli goes on a date with Peter, it could not have been more of a disaster. Peter is a socially and physically awkward mess who also happens to be a virgin when it comes to dating. That’s where Eli comes in. Can the two of them navigate a real relationship?

Deaver does an excellent job of writing about the LGBTQ+ community in an authentic and realistic way. The character of Eli didn’t stand out or feel pushed into a narrative where he didn’t belong.

The story was very wholesome and I found myself rooting for the entire cast. It was one of those books I couldn’t put down and found myself reading when I should have been sleeping or working.

My only critique of the story is the dialogue. The characters said each other’s name over and over again.

While I initially struggled with this one--up to the maybe about the halfway marker, overall I think this is a pretty decent adult debut. I think what I struggled with initially is Eli was a bit of a difficult character for me to get fully invested in. I really liked the moments where he talked about his transition and where he and Peter talked about growing up queer. It's just that Eli himself was a bit of a frustrating character to be in the head of. While I do think he eventually got to the point where I could root for him, it definitely took a bit.

Also, while the workplace bit was honestly a big part of the story, I also really struggled with that. I realize its kind of paying homage to those classic rom-coms, but it felt a bit TOO familiar. Honestly, I think I probably would've given this a higher rating if the workplace element were taken out of the story entirely. Rather than being a cheeky little nod, it felt very telegraphed. From how things were going to pan out to the 3rd act break-up, it all felt a little rote.

But, god, did I really like Peter Park. Such a sweet character! Though it took me longer to warm up to Eli, I liked Peter immediately. I honestly wanted a lot more of him--even though there was a decent amount.

Despite my initial struggles and an ending that felt a bit abrupt, I still appreciate this book and this author for writing a queer love story where being trans isn't some shocking revelation, but something normalized and appreciated. We need more books like that more than ever. I'd still recommend this to anyone looking for a sweet, queer adult romance with a trans protagonist.

Thanks NetGalley for the arc!

This is such a feel-good, early 2000s rom-com book! This is the first book I've read with trans representation and I believe it was beautifully done. The author didn't shy away from difficult topics and fully delved into them while maintaining the lighter feel of this book. I'll admit that I knew pretty much nothing about this population, so this book opened my eyes to so many things! I'm glad every group is being represented and I hope the author continues his work in spreading awareness and inclusivity!

an INCREDIBLY endearing love interest and a protag i liked even when he (Frequently) messed up. third act breakup is typical, but in general good. 4 stars. would recommend. tysm for the arc.

Mason Deaver's The Build-a-Boyfriend Project is a refreshing, heartfelt rom-com that deftly explores self-discovery, ambition, and love. With wit, charm, and an undercurrent of real emotional depth, Deaver brings readers into Eli Francis’s world—a place where dating disasters, career dreams, and unexpected connections weave together into a genuinely captivating story.

Eli, a complex and relatable protagonist, is stuck in both his career and his personal life, feeling underappreciated at work and haunted by his ex’s success. His chance encounter with Peter Park—a first date so awkward it’s almost endearing—sparks a series of “practice” dates with a hilarious twist: Eli's pretending it's all for an article while actually digging deeper into Peter’s story. This clever setup makes for some laugh-out-loud moments but also allows Deaver to explore the nuances of queer dating, the challenges of coming out in the South, and the vulnerability of truly opening up to someone new.
Peter is the kind of character you can't help but root for: he’s sweet, awkward, and authentic in ways that contrast perfectly with Eli’s more cynical, guarded personality. Their relationship builds slowly, with layers of trust and respect that make each “date” feel increasingly meaningful. The chemistry between them is palpable, and the progression from "fake" dating to something real is both organic and deeply satisfying.

Beyond the romance, Eli's journey to find his voice as a writer and break free from the limitations placed on him at work is inspiring. Deaver captures the frustration of being stuck in a role that feels beneath one's potential, making Eli's professional journey just as compelling as his romantic one. His final decisions reveal growth, courage, and a newfound understanding of his own worth—both as a writer and as a person capable of love.

The Build-a-Boyfriend Project is more than just a lighthearted romance; it’s an honest, uplifting exploration of self-worth, career ambition, and the messy, wonderful process of opening up to love again. Deaver’s writing is sharp, funny, and brimming with heart. A must-read for anyone who loves a rom-com with substance and authenticity, this book is bound to leave readers smiling long after the last page.

I LOVED THIS SO MUCH. I have zero notes, I’m pretty much speechless. I am obsessed.


Thank you for writing this

I think this was a really cozy romance for me. The representation of LGBTQ characters felt really well done and also relatable for those in a place of their lives where they are ready to make a change. A perfect combo of all the classic rom com tropes.

I went into this book thinking I could guess where it was going from the summary and I was wrong in the best way. I had a great time reading and had a good few laughs, aww cute and some bitter sweet moments.

This was the first book I've ever read that one of the MMCs was trans and I enjoyed reading the different perspective/learning some new things that sent me down some new rabbit holes of education. I adored Eli's family and friends as they were supportive but realistic through the book. Peter stole my heart and his arc had me smiling as he we the readers learned about his experiences, many which I personally resonated with. Eli's arc also was realistic and I found it refreshing that he was able to own up to his actions.

Although this was my first time reading a book from Mx. Deaver, I look forward to reading more of their works in the future! My only note is that I wish there would have been a mini montage or something of that nature between the last chapter and epilogue (it would have been on brand for the movie references!)

The Build a Better Boyfriend Project was a 3.5 star read. The main turmoil was lying and miscommunication for corporate gain and that made me uncomfortable and not like the book. I appreciate the fleshed out characters with their struggles very well laid out. the writing was clear and I really related with Peter's struggle as a socially anxious guy. Overall, this was an easy adult romance read that deals with heavier topics regarding race and sexuality, and topics of communication and forgiveness.

Peter is a lovely cinnamon roll who should be protected at all costs. I also adored Eli, even when he screwed up big time. The plot was pretty predictable, but every interaction was so charming.

I really enjoyed this as a romance novel, it had realistic characters and their romance was realistically done. I enjoyed the plot and how their jobs worked overall, it had that element that I wanted and thoroughly enjoyed going on this journey.

Cute novel it was fast paced
I enjoyed the relationship building although it did get a bit predictable at times

However I think people will really enjoy this book.

I loved this. It was really cure and I loved the reaction ship that formed between them. I liked the story and how it develops throughout the story. It was a great read and I think Deaver made a wonderful novel that will be loved by many

It was not bad, but there's nothing I'd write home about. Not really shocked about the third act break-up, as I saw it coming from a mile away.

Thanks Avon and Harper Voyager, and NetGalley for the e-arc of this book!