Book Review: Arranged by Catherine McKenzie

Rating: 3.68/5 (Based on 9,601 ratings) | Pages: 390 | Get it on Amazon

A Refreshing Twist on Love and Self-Discovery

Catherine McKenzie's Arranged offers a witty, thought-provoking exploration of modern relationships through the lens of an unconventional premise. The novel follows Anne Blythe, a successful journalist who, after yet another failed relationship, stumbles upon a business card for what she assumes is a dating service. To her surprise, it's actually an arranged marriage service—and in a moment of impulsivity, she signs up.

Why Readers Are Talking About This Book

What makes Arranged stand out is McKenzie's ability to balance humor with genuine emotional depth. Readers consistently praise the novel's:

• Relatable protagonist: Anne is flawed but endearing—a woman many readers see themselves in as she navigates career pressures and personal growth.
• Fresh premise: The modern take on arranged marriage sparks curiosity while avoiding cultural stereotypes.
• Smart dialogue: McKenzie's background as a lawyer shines through in sharp, believable conversations.
• Pacing: At 390 pages, the story moves briskly, with enough twists to keep readers engaged without feeling rushed.

A Story About More Than Romance

While the arranged marriage setup suggests a conventional romance, McKenzie delivers something more substantive. The novel thoughtfully examines:

• The pressure women face to "have it all" by a certain age
• How we define success in relationships
• The difference between societal expectations and personal happiness

Readers appreciate that the story avoids becoming overly sentimental, instead offering a nuanced look at contemporary dating culture through Anne's humorous yet insightful perspective.

Considerations for Potential Readers

The 3.68 average rating reflects that while many find Arranged delightful, some wanted deeper character development or a more unpredictable plot. However, most agree it's:

• A perfect light read with substance
• Great for book clubs (sparking discussions about modern relationships)
• Ideal for fans of contemporary women's fiction that doesn't take itself too seriously

Final Verdict

Arranged succeeds as both entertainment and social commentary—a rare combination. McKenzie crafts a story that's breezy enough for vacation reading yet substantive enough to linger in your thoughts afterward. For readers seeking a novel that's equal parts funny and thoughtful, with a protagonist who feels like someone you might know, this book delivers.

Best for: Fans of Sophie Kinsella or Emily Giffin who want something with a slightly more contemporary edge, or anyone who's ever questioned whether the traditional path to love is the only one.

Find Arranged on Amazon to experience this engaging take on modern relationships for yourself.