A review by what_karla_reads
The Build-A-Boyfriend Project by Mason Deaver

emotional funny hopeful medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

4.5/5 stars
2/5 spice

Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Blind date
Fake dating
Dating coach
Trans rep
Self discovery 
Single POV 

The premise was promising from the start and I thoroughly enjoyed how everything played out between Eli and Peter. A lot of self-discovery in this story; Eli finding the courage to leave a toxic work environment to be a journalist and Peter finding the confidence to be himself and open to finding love and friendship. Add that with a bit of fake dating and you've got a fun and sweet romance. 

I would consider this book more on the cozy side. The conflict and 3rd act breakup wasn't dragged out in an unnecessary show of drama. Both MCs needed time and space to process. I was rooting for these two characters from the start and was grateful to see how mature they handled the bumps in their journey. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Both characters showed growth and it was a joy to see them fall in love. I highly recommend this book for fans of fake dating, diverse characters, and a strong self-journey story. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and offered voluntarily.