You know what? I almost forgot that this was a fake relationship romance, because this couple is basically already in love when the book begins. It’s a light and sexy small town romance with chemistry that’s apparent from the first scene, great family dynamics, and plenty of banter to keep things interesting. I loved the easiness of the relationship, and there are some seriously swoony moments. However, I kinda felt like I missed the “falling in love” stage of the story – they’re already there. This non-couple has known for the last couple of years that they’d be an excellent match, but they’re both commitment-phobic and have been ignoring the obvious. It doesn’t take much to push them into acknowledging their feelings, which has its pros and cons. Pro? Their connection runs deep, and they’re clearly perfect for each other. Con? They’ve both been dating other people while harboring these feelings, which rubbed me the wrong way. All in all, it’s a strong series starter, and I’m absolutely looking forward to reading more about the Carmichaels.
The story follows Brooke, an interior designer who needs a date to a family party. Her overbearing mother will be there, as will her ex-husband… who is now dating her aunt. Obviously, it’s the kind of hot mess of a situation that requires some moral support. Though Brooke wonders if she should find a fake date to the event via social media, she knows there’s one guy who would be the perfect fake boyfriend – her infuriating flirt of a co-worker, Moss. He’s the kind of guy who always has women chasing after him, and he’s become a good friend since Brooke’s divorce. Neither of them ever dates seriously, so nothing real could come out of the situation, but it would certainly be a test of their friendship. And as Moss and Brooke fall into a relationship, it doesn’t feel fake at all.
This book has the difficult task of introducing a LARGE, very involved, family AND developing a standalone romance, and it does a pretty good job with both. We spend a LOT of time with the Carmichaels, and there were times when I wanted to get back to the love story, but I’m also really intrigued by Moss’s brothers. It definitely succeeded in getting me interested in the series, which already feels stronger than the Masons. It felt like Brooke and Moss were short-changed a bit, but their relationship accelerates so quickly that they didn’t miss a beat. I really loved their banter, and the obvious depth of their feelings made the insta-relationship palatable. Moss is super sweet and just the right amount of possessive, which upped the swoon factor. I do think their conflict came out of left field, but I appreciated that the book remains relatively low angst and easy throughout – a true small town romance with a strong community vibe.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3M52rwO
Blurb:
WANTED: A SITUATION-SHIP
I’m a single female who’s tired of relationships ruining my life. However, there are times when a date would be helpful. If you’re a single man, preferably mid-twenties to late-thirties, and are in a similar situation, we might be a match.
Candidate must be handsome, charming, and willing to pretend to have feelings for me (on a sliding scale, as the event requires). Ability to discuss a wide variety of topics is a plus. Must have your own transportation and a (legal) job.
This will be a symbiotic agreement. In exchange for your time, I will give you mine. Need someone to flirt with you at a football party? Go, team! Want a woman to make you look good in front of your boss? Let me find my heels. Would you love for someone to be obsessed with you in front of your ex? I’m applying my red lipstick now.
If interested, please email me. Time is of the essence.
From USA Today and Amazon Charts Bestselling author comes a “fun and flirty!” fake dating situation between two coworkers that quickly straddles the line between friends and lovers.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3M52rwO
Another brother coming soon!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3EelZfg
About the Author:
About Adriana Locke
USA Today, Washington Post, and Amazon Charts Bestselling author Adriana Locke lives and breathes books. After years of slightly obsessive relationships with the flawed bad boys created by other authors, Adriana has created her own.
She resides in the Midwest with her husband, four sons, and two dogs. She spends a large amount of time playing with her kids, drinking coffee, and cooking. You can find her outside if the weather’s nice and there’s always a piece of candy in her pocket.
Connect with Adriana
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Nf4JjE
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Website: https://adrianalocke.com
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