A review by natashaleighton_
Degrees of Engagement by Jennifer Hennessy

emotional funny hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A sizzlingly swoon-worthy, fake dating romance that gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings of a 00s Rom-com— but with a refreshingly take that focuses just as much on the complexities of friendship as it does the chemistry-laden relationship that grows between our MCs. 

The only way I can best describe this is My Fake Fiancée meets 27 Dresses, with two relatable, Ali Hazelwood-esque protagonists that charmed their way into my heart! 

I really liked Bianca; the sweetest and ever reliable, drop-everything-for-the-ones-she-loves kinda person. Despite being ditched at the celebration of her biggest achievement by literally everyone, it’s only after copious amounts of alcohol and Xavier’s suggestion that she even thinks to make them pay. 

And yet, even when the worst is confirmed (her friends & family caring more about an upcoming wedding than a career altering PHD) her first reaction is to drop everything to accommodate them as they share their struggles & emotional dilemmas. 

Which is why I loved Xavier soo much, he listens and supports Bianca and (in a voice of reason capacity) shows Bianca how to put boundaries between herself and her loved ones, who constantly take her for granted. 

Not to mention the chemistry between the pair, which is breathtakingly palpable and swoon worthy in the most delicious of ways! 

I should mention that miscommunication is the main (and only) catalyst to Bianca and Xavier’s blossoming feelings, which may be frustrating for some. However the emotional introspection we experience from them both (and their personal feelings on marriage/relationships) was intriguing and did keep me on my toes.

Overall, a well written and wonderfully addictive Rom-com for anyone who loves Ali Hazelwood and Emily Henry or wishes untraditional milestones were celebrated just as enthusiastically as traditional ones. 

Also, a huge thank you to Felicia at Headline Eternal for the finished copy 



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