A review by amanda_reads13
The Dixon Rule by Elle Kennedy

emotional lighthearted sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Diana and Shane have never got along, but when Shane's ex shows up with her new boyfriend, Diana agrees to be his fake girlfriend. As the charade goes on, their feelings become more complicated. 

I really appreciate that this part of the series is devling into some heavier topics and really focusing on the emotional connection between the MCs. In this one, we deal with the loss of a parent, a meddling ex, mental health, and an abusive/stalker ex. These are all real world problems that could easily tear apart a couple, but we see it grow their connection. 

I adore these two together. Their banter is absolutely hilarious and they have so much chemistry. I loved watching their connection grow as their friendship grew and their attraction deepened to more than physical. They rally around each other in their time of need, build each other up when their confidence dips, and help each other heal. I think both of them show a lot of growth both sperately and together. 

Diana is an incredibly strong, independent, and fierce woman who says it like it is. She prides herself on her strength, so when
she is attacked by her ex and he starts to stalk her, she is shaken to her core. She starts to experience panic attacks, but is too ashamed to get help.
Eventually she learns that needing help isn't a sign of weekeness and that she can lean on others, including mental health professionals. 

After break up lead to a wild year, Shane has earned quite the playboy reputation. Yet, there is a lot more to Shane that meets the eye. Yes, he is a cocky, goofy guy, but he is also hardworking, protective, thoughtful, and compassionate. I think it was really important that he got the closure he needed with Lyndsey and saw who she really was, otherwise that could have been a "what if" always handing over them. 

As insane as these boys are, they are genuinely so supportive of one another. Yes, they will poke fun at each other, but when it comes down to it, they have each other's backs. 

Tropes: fake dating, enemies to friends with benefits to lovers, hockey/dancing, college, found family, forced proximity 
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