Jilly Gagnon's Love You, Mean It is a delightful foray into the world of romantic comedy, where the stakes are high, the laughs are plentiful, and the heartstrings are expertly tugged. This novel is a testament to Gagnon's ability to weave humor and romance into a narrative that feels both fresh and familiar, with a plot that hinges on the classic trope of fake dating, but with a unique twist that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

At the heart of the story is Ellie Greco, a character who embodies the tension between familial duty and personal ambition. Ellie is a protagonist many can relate to: someone who has put her dreams on hold to fulfill obligations, in this case, running her family's deli after her father's untimely death. Gagnon paints Ellie as a vibrant, multi-dimensional character whose internal conflict is palpable. Her love for her family and the deli is evident, yet there is a persistent yearning for the life she left behind—a life filled with creativity and the thrill of designing costumes for theater. This duality in Ellie's character is one of the novel's strengths, as it adds depth to her motivations and decisions throughout the story.

The inciting incident—a ceiling collapse that leads to Theo Taylor's amnesia and the subsequent fake engagement—sets the stage for a series of comedic and heartfelt moments. Theo, the heir to a property management firm, is initially portrayed as the antagonist, a man whose business decisions threaten Ellie's livelihood. However, as the story unfolds, Gagnon skillfully peels back the layers of Theo's character, revealing a man who is more than just a corporate figurehead. His interactions with Ellie are charged with chemistry and wit, and their evolving relationship is a testament to Gagnon's talent for crafting believable and engaging romantic dynamics.

The theme of identity and self-discovery is prevalent throughout the novel. Both Ellie and Theo are on journeys of self-exploration, forced to confront their preconceived notions about themselves and each other. The fake engagement serves as a catalyst for this exploration, pushing them out of their comfort zones and into a space where they must reevaluate their priorities and desires. This theme is further enriched by the presence of Sam, Theo's ex-fiancée, whose reappearance adds complexity to the narrative. Sam's character is not merely a plot device; she is a fully realized individual with her own motivations and desires, and her interactions with Ellie and Theo add depth to the story's exploration of love, friendship, and loyalty.

Gagnon's writing is characterized by its humor and warmth. The dialogue is sharp and witty, with banter that feels natural and unforced. The comedic elements are well-balanced with the more serious themes, ensuring that the novel maintains a light-hearted tone without sacrificing emotional depth. The setting of Milborough, with its small-town charm and quirky inhabitants, provides the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama, adding an additional layer of richness to the narrative.

In terms of character development, Gagnon excels at creating individuals who are both relatable and memorable. Ellie and Theo's growth over the course of the novel is organic and satisfying, as they learn to navigate their feelings and the complexities of their situation. The supporting characters, including Ellie's family and the townspeople, are well-drawn and contribute to the story's sense of community and belonging.

Comparatively, Love You, Mean It shares thematic elements with other romantic comedies that explore fake relationships, such as Christina Lauren's The Unhoneymooners or Sally Thorne's The Hating Game. However, Gagnon's novel stands out due to its unique premise and the depth of its character exploration. The inclusion of themes such as family legacy and personal ambition adds layers to the narrative, making it more than just a simple romantic comedy.

Overall, Love You, Mean It is a charming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and those who enjoy stories about personal growth and self-discovery. Jilly Gagnon has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you're a fan of the genre or new to it, this book is sure to delight and inspire.