The Fake Engagement Contract: A Billionaire Forced Proximity Romance - A Deep Dive Review

by Jenna Young (Author)

Updated at: 10/02/2025

In Jenna Young's "The Fake Engagement Contract: A Billionaire Forced Proximity Romance," broke aspiring artist, Ava, finds herself unexpectedly engaged to billionaire Nic. Desperate to pay mounting hospital bills and fulfill her mother's dying wish, she accepts his lucrative offer to be his fake fiancée. What begins as a business transaction quickly evolves into something far more complex. Living under the same roof, their initial attraction blossoms into undeniable feelings, despite the ever-present threat of exposure. Nic's manipulative brother and Ava's past relationships complicate their already precarious situation, forcing them to navigate not only the pretense of their engagement but also the growing depth of their unexpected love. Will their carefully constructed facade crumble under the weight of their emotions, or can they find a way to make their fake love real?

4.5 / 14 ratings

Review The Fake Engagement Contract

Oh my goodness, "The Fake Engagement Contract" completely swept me away! From the very first page, I was hooked by the premise – broke woman needs money, billionaire needs a fiancée, fake engagement ensues – and the execution was even better than I anticipated. Jenna Young masterfully crafted a story that perfectly blends the thrilling highs of a whirlwind romance with the nail-biting suspense of a ticking clock.

The emotional core of the book lies in Thea's vulnerability and Nic's surprising tenderness. Thea's struggles are so relatable; her financial anxieties, her devotion to her mother, and the lingering hurt from a past relationship made her instantly sympathetic. I found myself completely rooting for her, wanting her to escape her difficult circumstances and find happiness. And Nic? He’s the classic grumpy billionaire on the surface, but beneath the layers of wealth and family pressure, you see a man who’s capable of deep compassion and genuine affection. Their connection felt incredibly real, evolving organically from a business transaction into something much more profound. The chemistry between them crackled, and their slow-burn romance was utterly captivating.

What truly elevates this story beyond your average fake dating trope is the depth of the characters. They're not just cardboard cutouts; they have flaws, insecurities, and hidden depths that make them feel incredibly human. Thea's occasional selfishness and Nic's initial hesitation are perfectly understandable given their backstories, and their growth throughout the narrative was incredibly satisfying to witness. The author doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of their relationship, and the internal conflicts they face add a layer of emotional realism that kept me completely engaged.

The plot itself is cleverly constructed, full of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. The looming threat of Nic's brother added a significant layer of suspense, keeping the tension high throughout the story. The pacing was perfect; it never felt rushed, allowing the emotional connection between Thea and Nic to develop organically. I appreciated the inclusion of side characters as well; they weren't just window dressing, but contributed to the overall richness of the narrative.

While the book is predominantly a romance, it’s also a story about family, loyalty, and overcoming adversity. Thea's dedication to her mother and Nic's strained relationship with his father add emotional weight to the narrative, giving it a depth that transcends the typical romance genre. It's a story about second chances, both romantic and personal, and the power of human connection to overcome even the most challenging obstacles.

Overall, "The Fake Engagement Contract" is a fantastic read. It's funny, heartwarming, and emotionally resonant. It's the kind of book you can easily devour in a sitting, but will leave you feeling satisfied and emotionally fulfilled long after you turn the final page. If you're looking for a captivating romance with complex characters and a compelling plot, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Five stars!