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The Fake Out
I can’t lock up the library until the guy asleep at his desk leaves. Thank the universe for audiobooks because I could be here all night. But I see his mouth twitch at the exact moment a steamy kiss takes place. My face burns when I realize my headphones aren’t plugged in and my phone is at full volume.
It's not every day you see a new face in my small hometown of Two Harts, let alone one belonging to an annoyingly handsome all-star NFL player. But for some reason Chris Sterns has decided that the library where I work is his go-to spot to hide from his mega-fans, and unfortunately, winding me up is his new favorite sport.
Being crowned “world’s sexiest man” has done little to curb his confident charm and when he somehow ropes me into his two-person book club, I can’t help warming to his endless positivity.
But when a photo of him stumbling out of a Las Vegas club with a woman in tow is leaked to the press, I can’t help but question whether his good boy persona is just an act.
And that’s far from the only answer I’m left searching for when Chris pops the question I’ve only ever heard in my favorite romance books. Did he really just ask me to marry him?
It’s not the proposal I was expecting, but with my mom’s medical bills piling up faster than I can pay them, and with the scandal threatening to ruin everything Chris has worked for; could an engagement be the perfect fake out for us both? Or is this a game we’ll both lose?
A totally uplifting and addictive friends-to-lovers romance full of laugh-out-loud moments. Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Sarah Adams and Olivia Dade.
It's not every day you see a new face in my small hometown of Two Harts, let alone one belonging to an annoyingly handsome all-star NFL player. But for some reason Chris Sterns has decided that the library where I work is his go-to spot to hide from his mega-fans, and unfortunately, winding me up is his new favorite sport.
Being crowned “world’s sexiest man” has done little to curb his confident charm and when he somehow ropes me into his two-person book club, I can’t help warming to his endless positivity.
But when a photo of him stumbling out of a Las Vegas club with a woman in tow is leaked to the press, I can’t help but question whether his good boy persona is just an act.
And that’s far from the only answer I’m left searching for when Chris pops the question I’ve only ever heard in my favorite romance books. Did he really just ask me to marry him?
It’s not the proposal I was expecting, but with my mom’s medical bills piling up faster than I can pay them, and with the scandal threatening to ruin everything Chris has worked for; could an engagement be the perfect fake out for us both? Or is this a game we’ll both lose?
A totally uplifting and addictive friends-to-lovers romance full of laugh-out-loud moments. Perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Sarah Adams and Olivia Dade.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 5, 2023
1233 people are currently reading
2599 people want to read
About the author
Sharon M. Peterson
4 books367 followersSharon M. Peterson is a former middle school teacher and has the personality to prove it. One of her favorite quotes is from Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath: “It was her habit to build up laughter out of inadequate materials.” She strives to tackle life that way and create characters who do the same. She lives in Washington with her husband and four children, including two autistic sons. She has two cats, one dog, one Russian tortoise, one tattoo, and an intense fear of poodles (don’t ask). She can usually be found hunched over her computer, creating characters and stories she hopes you’ll love as much as she does.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 578 reviews
June 22, 2024
3.5 stars
The Fake Out was a cute fake dating romance. The hero was fantastic, the heroine was stubborn and insufferable at times, but overall I liked this one!
The Fake Out was a cute fake dating romance. The hero was fantastic, the heroine was stubborn and insufferable at times, but overall I liked this one!
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Cindy Kay
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 10h 5m
September 29, 2023
The Fake Out - Sharon Peterson - 3.5 Stars - Many parts I enjoyed, but many parts not so much. Let's chat!
While there were SO much in this rom-com I really enjoyed, there are some parts that fell flat. The storyline itself - great and very layered. The characters have a depth to them that make them feel relatable - specifically our main girl of Mae. (See more thoughts on that below.) But many of the quick one-liner pick up lines bothered me from a sexual content and language perspective - this will be personal preference to each person, but it did impact my reading experience a bit. Many of them were funny - I will admit - but there were maybe between 5 and 10 that bothered me personally. Overall, this is a clean rom-com from a sexual content perspective, with some things riding a fine line. There is mild language in this book and I searched the kindle book and will leave the content details on that at the bottom. I had a good time overall in this story, had some laughs and enjoyed the ending.
This story follows Mae Sampson, she is just trying to keep it all together between her job at the failing library to working other multiple jobs just to help pay the medical bills for her mother's stroke therapies. We see her struggles to "do it all" and that's where I felt she was very relatable - as someone who feels like they "have to do everything" but you really don't.
She meets Chris Sterns, a profession football player she finds asleep in her library one day. Chris is the ultimate guy with integrity - he cares so much about raising awareness for CHF - a heart disease his sister suffered from growing up. But there is a situation that occurs when he's found in a suggestive photo that isn't what it seams and the media is out to destroy his good name and his work with the charity is in jeopardy.
Chris decides to offer Mae an offer - $100,000 for a fake engagement to settle his image and she gets the money she needs for her mother's medical bills and can quit her second job at a "hooters" like establishment called "Chicky's". Things go on from here as they get to know one another and as usual, real feelings start to form. :)
Great premise - right?! I love a good fake dating story and the beginning of this was GREAT! I just found myself wrestling with some of the innuendos and pick up lines I didn't love so that took it down for me some. But the storyline with Chris, learning about his upbringing with his sisters and how genuine he was, and Mae, her Mom and sister, then her Dad comes in and that was WILD - it all just played out to be a good story.
Overall, I recommend to anyone who likes funny, clean, rom-coms and doesn't mind mild language or sexual innuendos / some questionable pick-up lines at the beginning of each chapter. :)
Content Warnings: Language - 14-15 D words, 14-15 H words, 4 JA words, 2-3 B words, 4 S words that I found. No F words. Clean from a sexual content perspective but I did not like the pick up lines about "crawling out of Hell" and "breaking Old Testament rules" the most, with some of the others being a bit much in the sexual innuendos. Chris and Mae sleep in the same bed, but nothing happens between them. They start a book club together and read a "spicy pirate romance" book so they mention some of the sex scenes in that book but it's not explained. Overall, the sexual content is going to be a personal preference to everyone but I wanted to mention this for your reference.
While there were SO much in this rom-com I really enjoyed, there are some parts that fell flat. The storyline itself - great and very layered. The characters have a depth to them that make them feel relatable - specifically our main girl of Mae. (See more thoughts on that below.) But many of the quick one-liner pick up lines bothered me from a sexual content and language perspective - this will be personal preference to each person, but it did impact my reading experience a bit. Many of them were funny - I will admit - but there were maybe between 5 and 10 that bothered me personally. Overall, this is a clean rom-com from a sexual content perspective, with some things riding a fine line. There is mild language in this book and I searched the kindle book and will leave the content details on that at the bottom. I had a good time overall in this story, had some laughs and enjoyed the ending.
This story follows Mae Sampson, she is just trying to keep it all together between her job at the failing library to working other multiple jobs just to help pay the medical bills for her mother's stroke therapies. We see her struggles to "do it all" and that's where I felt she was very relatable - as someone who feels like they "have to do everything" but you really don't.
She meets Chris Sterns, a profession football player she finds asleep in her library one day. Chris is the ultimate guy with integrity - he cares so much about raising awareness for CHF - a heart disease his sister suffered from growing up. But there is a situation that occurs when he's found in a suggestive photo that isn't what it seams and the media is out to destroy his good name and his work with the charity is in jeopardy.
Chris decides to offer Mae an offer - $100,000 for a fake engagement to settle his image and she gets the money she needs for her mother's medical bills and can quit her second job at a "hooters" like establishment called "Chicky's". Things go on from here as they get to know one another and as usual, real feelings start to form. :)
Great premise - right?! I love a good fake dating story and the beginning of this was GREAT! I just found myself wrestling with some of the innuendos and pick up lines I didn't love so that took it down for me some. But the storyline with Chris, learning about his upbringing with his sisters and how genuine he was, and Mae, her Mom and sister, then her Dad comes in and that was WILD - it all just played out to be a good story.
Overall, I recommend to anyone who likes funny, clean, rom-coms and doesn't mind mild language or sexual innuendos / some questionable pick-up lines at the beginning of each chapter. :)
Content Warnings: Language - 14-15 D words, 14-15 H words, 4 JA words, 2-3 B words, 4 S words that I found. No F words. Clean from a sexual content perspective but I did not like the pick up lines about "crawling out of Hell" and "breaking Old Testament rules" the most, with some of the others being a bit much in the sexual innuendos. Chris and Mae sleep in the same bed, but nothing happens between them. They start a book club together and read a "spicy pirate romance" book so they mention some of the sex scenes in that book but it's not explained. Overall, the sexual content is going to be a personal preference to everyone but I wanted to mention this for your reference.
June 12, 2023
This book was a complete surprise for me. The blurb of this book had me intrigued right away and even though Sharon M. Peterson is a new author for me, I wanted to pick it up as soon as I had it downloaded on my Kindle.
The writing was really good. I was able to read this book nearly in one sitting without even realizing how far I got in the story. It was SO funny as well. I have laughed so many times while reading this.
Chris has to be one of my favorite male characters in a book. He was sweet, hot, caring and literally a sunshine. Also, he reads a lot, which makes him even more interesting. The banter between him and Mae was great, too. And Mae is the grumpy to Chris’ sunshine. She is an older sister and feels like she has to take care of her mother, who recently had a stroke, her sister and nearly everyone she meets, except for herself. I have to admit she got on my nerves after some time, but overall she was really likable and a good MC.
There are a lot of tropes in this book, especially the fake dating one, which I love. This is one of the factors that had me drawn to this book. Some things are predictable, but this doesn’t lower the fun at all.
Every chapter starts with a cheesy pick up line and these alone had me laughing so hard. Some had my eyes rolling, but one or two were actually pretty good.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
The writing was really good. I was able to read this book nearly in one sitting without even realizing how far I got in the story. It was SO funny as well. I have laughed so many times while reading this.
Chris has to be one of my favorite male characters in a book. He was sweet, hot, caring and literally a sunshine. Also, he reads a lot, which makes him even more interesting. The banter between him and Mae was great, too. And Mae is the grumpy to Chris’ sunshine. She is an older sister and feels like she has to take care of her mother, who recently had a stroke, her sister and nearly everyone she meets, except for herself. I have to admit she got on my nerves after some time, but overall she was really likable and a good MC.
There are a lot of tropes in this book, especially the fake dating one, which I love. This is one of the factors that had me drawn to this book. Some things are predictable, but this doesn’t lower the fun at all.
Every chapter starts with a cheesy pick up line and these alone had me laughing so hard. Some had my eyes rolling, but one or two were actually pretty good.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2023
This was such a fun time! After librarian Mae Sampson finds professional defensive lineman Chris Sterns asleep in the non-fiction section, one encounter leads to another ... and a fake engagement ensues! Chris is very much in need of protecting his image after a compromising video. And Mae, although stubbornly independent, could really use some money to pay family medical bills.
I adored both these characters! Mae is fantastic—she is headstrong, hilariously sarcastic, and will do absolutely anything for those she loves AND her precious library. Chris ruffling her feathers with his sunshine, golden retriever-type personality was so great.
On top of the witty banter was plenty of precious moments (the one-bed scene might be my favourite) to solidify their growing feelings. After Mae sacrificing so much of herself for others, I loved seeing her find someone to take care of her.
A romantic comedy I'd recommend for sure! With fresh storytelling, great humour, and a little family drama too, it kept me invested until the very end.
(heat level: kissing only)
I adored both these characters! Mae is fantastic—she is headstrong, hilariously sarcastic, and will do absolutely anything for those she loves AND her precious library. Chris ruffling her feathers with his sunshine, golden retriever-type personality was so great.
On top of the witty banter was plenty of precious moments (the one-bed scene might be my favourite) to solidify their growing feelings. After Mae sacrificing so much of herself for others, I loved seeing her find someone to take care of her.
A romantic comedy I'd recommend for sure! With fresh storytelling, great humour, and a little family drama too, it kept me invested until the very end.
(heat level: kissing only)
June 19, 2023
THE PICKUP LINES!!!! Please if you read this for nothing else, just read it for the pickup lines. I'm telling you, I CACKLED!
I adore Sharon Peterson's books. They are wholesome, feel-good romances that are right on par with Sarah Adams. But what distinguishes Sharon from others is her wit. It cracks like a wip and will leave you breathless from laughter when you least expect it.
The Fake Out had me grinning from ear to ear from the time Maebell found Chris in her library all the way until the epilogue.
Read if you love:
🤍Grumpy x Sunshine
🤍Fake dating / engagement
🤍Opposites attract
🤍Banter
I adore Sharon Peterson's books. They are wholesome, feel-good romances that are right on par with Sarah Adams. But what distinguishes Sharon from others is her wit. It cracks like a wip and will leave you breathless from laughter when you least expect it.
The Fake Out had me grinning from ear to ear from the time Maebell found Chris in her library all the way until the epilogue.
Read if you love:
🤍Grumpy x Sunshine
🤍Fake dating / engagement
🤍Opposites attract
🤍Banter
July 5, 2023
Move over sexy forearms, opposable thumbs are the next hot things 😆
The Fake Out has all the sass and banter you could ask for. The heroine’s internal monologues were hilarious and the pick up lines throughout the book were cheesier than ever, and I promise: these pick up lines were truly something else.
The Fake Out is a low drama, fast paced, feelgood romantic comedy, and while the storylines weren’t unpredictable, it was exciting in the way the author executed them. The humor was A+, the banter swoon worthy, and the cast of characters the loviest.
Mae and Chris were two adorable characters. A reversed sunshine and a grump who fake engage to save Chris’ public image, pay for Mae’s medical bills, and to banter from the moment they meet until the very last page. I’m a sucker for cinnamon roll heroes, so when the third act arrived and Chris decided to show the world he’s in his own league of cinnamon roll superheroes, my heart broke a little. But no worries, they will get their well deserved happily ever after.
A big shout out for Sharon M. Peterson for writing such an entertaining story and creating these lovely characters. From the hero and heroine to the ex boyfriend turned mayor and supervillain in wanting to cut the library budget, to the best friend whose revenge plotting skills are yet unmatched, to the geriatric cat, I loved them all.
4.5 stars rounded up, because it definitely put a smile on my face.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing an arc with me in exchange for an honest review.
The Fake Out has all the sass and banter you could ask for. The heroine’s internal monologues were hilarious and the pick up lines throughout the book were cheesier than ever, and I promise: these pick up lines were truly something else.
The Fake Out is a low drama, fast paced, feelgood romantic comedy, and while the storylines weren’t unpredictable, it was exciting in the way the author executed them. The humor was A+, the banter swoon worthy, and the cast of characters the loviest.
Mae and Chris were two adorable characters. A reversed sunshine and a grump who fake engage to save Chris’ public image, pay for Mae’s medical bills, and to banter from the moment they meet until the very last page. I’m a sucker for cinnamon roll heroes, so when the third act arrived and Chris decided to show the world he’s in his own league of cinnamon roll superheroes, my heart broke a little. But no worries, they will get their well deserved happily ever after.
A big shout out for Sharon M. Peterson for writing such an entertaining story and creating these lovely characters. From the hero and heroine to the ex boyfriend turned mayor and supervillain in wanting to cut the library budget, to the best friend whose revenge plotting skills are yet unmatched, to the geriatric cat, I loved them all.
4.5 stars rounded up, because it definitely put a smile on my face.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing an arc with me in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2025
If you looked up golden retriever in the dictionary , there would be a picture of Chris right there. Don’t ask me how a picture of a fictional character wound up there, I don’t make the rules. This man had me BLUSHING so hard. And by blushing I mean as a brown person… feeling very flustered and giddy.
And the BUTTERFLIES. Oh my god I just wanted them to stop because I was getting so angry that I don’t live a life like Mae 😤
Now the rest of the story ? Chef’s kiss 🤌🏽 I do not have a single thing I did not like about this story.
Lovely characters and growth ✅
Sizzling chemistry ✅
The most wholesome and lovely love interest ✅
And the cheesy pick up line starting off every chapter was so delightful 🤭
I just loved it okay🫠
Ms Peterson 👏🏽 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
And the BUTTERFLIES. Oh my god I just wanted them to stop because I was getting so angry that I don’t live a life like Mae 😤
Now the rest of the story ? Chef’s kiss 🤌🏽 I do not have a single thing I did not like about this story.
Lovely characters and growth ✅
Sizzling chemistry ✅
The most wholesome and lovely love interest ✅
And the cheesy pick up line starting off every chapter was so delightful 🤭
I just loved it okay🫠
Ms Peterson 👏🏽 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
June 22, 2024
THREE POINT FIVE STARS
THE FAKE OUT
● Mae (26) & Chris
● librarian & waitress at a place like Hooters / football player
● Mae helps take care of her mother’s medical bills
● Mae has a sister in high school and their dad left them
● Chris offers Mae an offer: $100,000 for a fake engagement
● he needs her help for his image and she needs money for her mom’s medical bills plus she could fund her sister's college
● reverse grumpy/sunshine
THE FAKE OUT
● Mae (26) & Chris
● librarian & waitress at a place like Hooters / football player
● Mae helps take care of her mother’s medical bills
● Mae has a sister in high school and their dad left them
● Chris offers Mae an offer: $100,000 for a fake engagement
● he needs her help for his image and she needs money for her mom’s medical bills plus she could fund her sister's college
● reverse grumpy/sunshine
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Cindy Kay
Length: 10h 05m
December 7, 2025
Würde sogar 4,5 ⭐️ geben… an sich ne klassische story… die Kapitel captions und Chris Sprüche fand ich so unglaublich lustig - war komplett mein Humor !
October 9, 2023
4.5 stars
SMITTEN.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Ahhhh I loved this book! The banter was absolutely immaculate and all of the corny pick-up lines at the beginning of the chapters made me laugh so much. This was light, filled with a lot of heart, and I could not get enough of CHRIS.
The fake engagement trope was great. I liked the fake aspects that had to be enacted and the forced proximity that brought these two together. You can tell that Chris is gone from the get-go and I love a man who knows what he wants.
I loved seeing Mae go from intensely stubborn to allowing Chris and her family to help her with the weight she was carrying. There were a lot of great, true arguments between the main couple that I appreciated and loved so dang much. Really getting to the heart of the matter and the why.
Great read. If you’re thinking it’s a sports romance, I wouldn’t call it that because there’s no games, practices or anything along those lines. Chris is a NFL player and that’s the sportiest thing. Which was not a deal breaker for me at all, just something I noticed!
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: very little, light
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: gaslighting incarcerated and parental abandonment (all from Mae’s father), a sister with a heart condition
SMITTEN.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Ahhhh I loved this book! The banter was absolutely immaculate and all of the corny pick-up lines at the beginning of the chapters made me laugh so much. This was light, filled with a lot of heart, and I could not get enough of CHRIS.
The fake engagement trope was great. I liked the fake aspects that had to be enacted and the forced proximity that brought these two together. You can tell that Chris is gone from the get-go and I love a man who knows what he wants.
I loved seeing Mae go from intensely stubborn to allowing Chris and her family to help her with the weight she was carrying. There were a lot of great, true arguments between the main couple that I appreciated and loved so dang much. Really getting to the heart of the matter and the why.
Great read. If you’re thinking it’s a sports romance, I wouldn’t call it that because there’s no games, practices or anything along those lines. Chris is a NFL player and that’s the sportiest thing. Which was not a deal breaker for me at all, just something I noticed!
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: very little, light
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: gaslighting incarcerated and parental abandonment (all from Mae’s father), a sister with a heart condition
June 30, 2023
I went into this book blind and I was pleasantly surprised. All I remembered after requesting this title was the fake dating romance trope and that alone is usually enough to make me love a book. And this book definitely delivered!
When Mae finds football-player Chris Sterns asleep in her library, it sets them up for a great scheme. Chris has suffered a dent in his reputation, but he knows the perfect way to get out of the funk: stageing a fake relationship with the librarian he just met! When Mae agrees, it turns their world upside down. But can they complete this scheme without catching feelings?
At first glance, Mae and I are so similar! Booklovers, caregivers and just very weirded out when someone attractive gives us any hint of affection ;)
The chemistry she has with Chris is amazing and I love how they could be snarky, caring and totally in love without either of them noticing. The writing and the dialogue are incredible in this. Super comfortable and will keep you reading!
Definitely a book that'll have you kicking up your feet and laughing out loud.
When Mae finds football-player Chris Sterns asleep in her library, it sets them up for a great scheme. Chris has suffered a dent in his reputation, but he knows the perfect way to get out of the funk: stageing a fake relationship with the librarian he just met! When Mae agrees, it turns their world upside down. But can they complete this scheme without catching feelings?
At first glance, Mae and I are so similar! Booklovers, caregivers and just very weirded out when someone attractive gives us any hint of affection ;)
The chemistry she has with Chris is amazing and I love how they could be snarky, caring and totally in love without either of them noticing. The writing and the dialogue are incredible in this. Super comfortable and will keep you reading!
Definitely a book that'll have you kicking up your feet and laughing out loud.
June 9, 2023
ARC Review
Story: 4/5 ⭐
---
The Fakeout follows the story of librarian, Mae and her engagement/marriage of convenience with NFL star Chris Stern. Throughout the story we learn about Mae and her need to take care of those around her and all of the childhood trauma that her need stems from. Chris is the nice guy philanthropist who falls head over heels for Mae despite her being so mean to him.
---
This was such a cute Rom-com book! I am a huge sucker for cheesy pick up lines (not used on me of course!) and dad jokes and this book did not disappoint! If you're not you should still give this book a chance! Everything from the main character's chemistry and relationship development was well progressed. I did get a tad bit annoyed with Mae but just remember everyone copes with their childhood traumas differently. I would recommend this book to people looking for an easy and humorous read!
***I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you to the author and netgalley for this opportunity
Story: 4/5 ⭐
---
The Fakeout follows the story of librarian, Mae and her engagement/marriage of convenience with NFL star Chris Stern. Throughout the story we learn about Mae and her need to take care of those around her and all of the childhood trauma that her need stems from. Chris is the nice guy philanthropist who falls head over heels for Mae despite her being so mean to him.
---
This was such a cute Rom-com book! I am a huge sucker for cheesy pick up lines (not used on me of course!) and dad jokes and this book did not disappoint! If you're not you should still give this book a chance! Everything from the main character's chemistry and relationship development was well progressed. I did get a tad bit annoyed with Mae but just remember everyone copes with their childhood traumas differently. I would recommend this book to people looking for an easy and humorous read!
***I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you to the author and netgalley for this opportunity
September 30, 2023
Books about small town librarians (of which I am one) are my total catnip and I was excited to read this one after seeing some great reviews from friends. Let me tell you I was NOT prepared for just how laugh out loud funny and swoony this reverse grumpy x sunshine, fake engagement, only one bed romance would be!!
Mae is always looking out for everyone else - from her mother and sister to the town library suffering from budget cuts. When she meets pro football player sleeping in her library she kicks him out without a second thought. Infuriatingly the guy just won't go away though, forcing her to form a two person romance reading book club with him.
Each chapter starts with a cheesy pick up line and they were SO MUCH FUN!! The chemistry between the two leads was electric and for a kissing only romance, I didn't mind one bit. There's even a one bed scene that made my heart melt!!
I can't recommend this one enough especially if you want a good laugh with a well-earned HEA! Perfect for fans of books like Hottie on her shelf by Christi Barth or The boyfriend candidate by Ashley Winstead. I can't wait to read the author's other book, The do-over right away next.
Mae is always looking out for everyone else - from her mother and sister to the town library suffering from budget cuts. When she meets pro football player sleeping in her library she kicks him out without a second thought. Infuriatingly the guy just won't go away though, forcing her to form a two person romance reading book club with him.
Each chapter starts with a cheesy pick up line and they were SO MUCH FUN!! The chemistry between the two leads was electric and for a kissing only romance, I didn't mind one bit. There's even a one bed scene that made my heart melt!!
I can't recommend this one enough especially if you want a good laugh with a well-earned HEA! Perfect for fans of books like Hottie on her shelf by Christi Barth or The boyfriend candidate by Ashley Winstead. I can't wait to read the author's other book, The do-over right away next.
February 20, 2024
This was my first book by this author. I saw a post of hers on IG and thought she sounded so fun. Since I had a break in my ARC books, I decided to try one of hers.
There were things I really liked about this book and then there were some things I wasn't as impressed with. I didn't love the language. There's some mild to moderate curse words. (No F-bombs).
What impressed me by the author and her post was her wit and snappy banter. That was evident in the book as well. Sometimes though I felt that's the only way the min female character could communicate. There were some good banter and moments though. The first 25 percent of the book was a bit slow and more women's fiction to me, but it did end up picking up and getting more romance related after that point.
One thing that did bother me was that there were a few religious type "jokes". I don't think that it is tasteful to use someone's beliefs to try to get a laugh. That's my personal feeling.
I listened to the audiobook and I was not overly impressed with the narrator. She was a bit breathy, especially with the male characters. I didn't want to DNF the book because of the narrator though. So I sped her up and plowed through the story.
I don't know how to give a star rating for this one. I am going to go with a 3.5 or 3.75 which both would round up to 4.
There were things I really liked about this book and then there were some things I wasn't as impressed with. I didn't love the language. There's some mild to moderate curse words. (No F-bombs).
What impressed me by the author and her post was her wit and snappy banter. That was evident in the book as well. Sometimes though I felt that's the only way the min female character could communicate. There were some good banter and moments though. The first 25 percent of the book was a bit slow and more women's fiction to me, but it did end up picking up and getting more romance related after that point.
One thing that did bother me was that there were a few religious type "jokes". I don't think that it is tasteful to use someone's beliefs to try to get a laugh. That's my personal feeling.
I listened to the audiobook and I was not overly impressed with the narrator. She was a bit breathy, especially with the male characters. I didn't want to DNF the book because of the narrator though. So I sped her up and plowed through the story.
I don't know how to give a star rating for this one. I am going to go with a 3.5 or 3.75 which both would round up to 4.
July 11, 2023
Wholesome!!! That’s what I’m feeling after finishing this book.
Going blindly in to this I never imagined I will love it this much especially as this is a clean romance (I know, shocker!)
Chris was such a cutie hero. I loved how much he enjoyed riling Mae up and how he was never faced with her grumpiness, in fact he was charmed by it. He was not only a adorable hero but a damn good brother too.
Mae was dealt with so many bad hands that she was kinda a pessimist. But a pessimist with huge heart. I love how responsible she was and how much she loved her family. She never once lost her cool. I loved her friendship with Ali they were so much fun with their pranks. Can’t wait to read her book.
I especially love a book when there are a bunch of colourful and eccentric secondary characters. They were such a lovely bunch from Chris’ 4 sisters to Mae’s library assistant. I couldn’t get enough of their antics.
Also the pick up lines in the beginning of each chapter…. Too good! I highlighted almost all of them.
Overall a very enjoyable and must read.
Standalone, KU.
—small town romance, fake relationship.
—reverse grumpy x sunshine.
—hilarious moments.
—athlete x librarian
—clean romance.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Going blindly in to this I never imagined I will love it this much especially as this is a clean romance (I know, shocker!)
Chris was such a cutie hero. I loved how much he enjoyed riling Mae up and how he was never faced with her grumpiness, in fact he was charmed by it. He was not only a adorable hero but a damn good brother too.
Mae was dealt with so many bad hands that she was kinda a pessimist. But a pessimist with huge heart. I love how responsible she was and how much she loved her family. She never once lost her cool. I loved her friendship with Ali they were so much fun with their pranks. Can’t wait to read her book.
I especially love a book when there are a bunch of colourful and eccentric secondary characters. They were such a lovely bunch from Chris’ 4 sisters to Mae’s library assistant. I couldn’t get enough of their antics.
Also the pick up lines in the beginning of each chapter…. Too good! I highlighted almost all of them.
Overall a very enjoyable and must read.
Standalone, KU.
—small town romance, fake relationship.
—reverse grumpy x sunshine.
—hilarious moments.
—athlete x librarian
—clean romance.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2023
The fake out by Sharon M. Peterson is a great romance which is the perfect length. It’s about a small town librarian and a football player who agree to have a fake engagement. But what happens when they develop feelings for each other.
I absolutely adored this book. If I didn’t have to work I could’ve easily finished this in a day because it’s such a fast paced book. The writing style isn’t complex to follow along which makes it great to read if you need something simple yet amazing in between fantasy books.
At each start of the chapter there is a different pickup line which cracks me up every time. They are cheesy yet incredibly funny.
The characters were also great, I love Chris. He is a caring football players who does a lot of charity and donates a lot. From the start he cared about Mae (the librarian). He is the ideal book boyfriend.
Mae is a driven woman who takes care of her family. She has a lot of jobs to pay her mothers hospital bills and likes to do everything herself. She doesn’t want any help. She is also a great main character, she is funny and sarcastic.
Next the relationship between the two was pure chemistry. I loved how much they cared about each other.
I also loved the small quirky things in this book. Usually they give me second hand embarrassment but Peterson really pulled it off.
And the last thing is that I really enjoyed the epilogue. It was in Chris POV while the rest of the book was in Mae’s. It was a nice switch up and didn’t make me want to skip the epilogue.
I would recommend this book to everyone if you like romance. Even if you don’t like the fake engagement trope, because it’s really well done!
I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you to the author and netgalley for this opportunity
I absolutely adored this book. If I didn’t have to work I could’ve easily finished this in a day because it’s such a fast paced book. The writing style isn’t complex to follow along which makes it great to read if you need something simple yet amazing in between fantasy books.
At each start of the chapter there is a different pickup line which cracks me up every time. They are cheesy yet incredibly funny.
The characters were also great, I love Chris. He is a caring football players who does a lot of charity and donates a lot. From the start he cared about Mae (the librarian). He is the ideal book boyfriend.
Mae is a driven woman who takes care of her family. She has a lot of jobs to pay her mothers hospital bills and likes to do everything herself. She doesn’t want any help. She is also a great main character, she is funny and sarcastic.
Next the relationship between the two was pure chemistry. I loved how much they cared about each other.
I also loved the small quirky things in this book. Usually they give me second hand embarrassment but Peterson really pulled it off.
And the last thing is that I really enjoyed the epilogue. It was in Chris POV while the rest of the book was in Mae’s. It was a nice switch up and didn’t make me want to skip the epilogue.
I would recommend this book to everyone if you like romance. Even if you don’t like the fake engagement trope, because it’s really well done!
I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you to the author and netgalley for this opportunity
July 2, 2023
When small town librarian Mae finds a stranger asleep in her library after closing, she tries to wake him... until his smile shows he's been listening in to her smutty audiobook playing at full volume. An unlikely friendship begins, focusing on their mutual love of reading and witty banter. She's soon surprised to learn that he's famous NFL player Chris Sterns, and he's chosen her town for his off season hideaway.
When a media article leaks showing her genuine new friend in a potentially compromising position, she agrees to something crazy... she'll fake an engagement to clear up his image and in return, provide her with the funds to pay off her mother's medical bills.
But faking their relationship is much harder than she anticipated, and there are people who'll use this as an opportunity to get back at them both... Will they pull it off? Or will outside forces ruin their chance at happiness?
Thank you to @stone4031 @bookouture & @netgalley for providing me with this ARC. The book is publishing on July 5th and I highly recommend it!
I absolutely loved how much this book had me giggling. The corny pick up lines at the start of each chapter were hilarious, as was the banter between our grumpy/sunshine pair. Mae had the weight of the world on her shoulders and Chris was the perfect salve to lift her spirits and help her see that she isn't weak for accepting help.
This is a sweet romance (line drawn at kissing) but the story really is about Mae's journey of self discovery and saving her beloved library. The romance factor was fun, but it was far more of an emotional connection and the ending hit me right in the heart!
When a media article leaks showing her genuine new friend in a potentially compromising position, she agrees to something crazy... she'll fake an engagement to clear up his image and in return, provide her with the funds to pay off her mother's medical bills.
But faking their relationship is much harder than she anticipated, and there are people who'll use this as an opportunity to get back at them both... Will they pull it off? Or will outside forces ruin their chance at happiness?
Thank you to @stone4031 @bookouture & @netgalley for providing me with this ARC. The book is publishing on July 5th and I highly recommend it!
I absolutely loved how much this book had me giggling. The corny pick up lines at the start of each chapter were hilarious, as was the banter between our grumpy/sunshine pair. Mae had the weight of the world on her shoulders and Chris was the perfect salve to lift her spirits and help her see that she isn't weak for accepting help.
This is a sweet romance (line drawn at kissing) but the story really is about Mae's journey of self discovery and saving her beloved library. The romance factor was fun, but it was far more of an emotional connection and the ending hit me right in the heart!
May 4, 2025
Das Cover hatte mich bereits überzeugt und auch den Klappentext fand ich sehr ansprechend. Ich liebe Fake Dating!
Der Roman handelt über die Bibliothekarin, Mae, die in einer Kleinstadt in Texas wohnt. Sie arbeitet viel, um die Arztrechnungen ihrer kranken Mutter zu begleichen. Eines Tages entdeckt sie einen schlafenden Mann in ihrer Bibliothek und nach kurzer Abneigung freunden sich die beiden an. Chris ist ein berühmter Sportler und macht gerade Urlaub in der Kleinstadt. Nach kurzer Zeit überschlagen sich die Ereignisse und die beiden gehen eine Fake Beziehung ein.
Der Schreibstil hat mir schon nach dem ersten Kapitel sehr gut gefallen. Das Buch lässt sich extrem flüssig lesen und die 450 Seiten kamen mir sehr kurzweilig vor. Besonders gut hat mir der Humor gefallen. Die Diagloge oder Nachrichten zwischen Mae und Chris haben mich oft zum Schmunzeln gebracht. Die Anmachsprüche zu Beginn des jeweiligen Kapitels waren so lustig und ich habe erst am Ende gelesen, dass die Autorin diese von ihren Lesern aus den sozialen Medien genommen hat. Genial! Neben all den lustigen Sachen hat mir aber auch die Tiefe der Charaktere gefallen. Vor allem Mae hatte wirklich ihr Päckchen zu tragen. Und die Liebe... hach, das war wirklich herzerwärmend. Die beiden hatten eine schöne Chemie und es war schön zu lesen, wie sie sich langsam näher kamen. Vor allem langsam - dieser Roman hat ein sehr geduldigen slow burn Aspekt.
Zusammenfassend kann ich den Roman wirklich empfehlen. Er ist cozy, romantisch und mit genau der richtigen Menge Witz und Charme, den ein guter RomCom braucht.
Der Roman handelt über die Bibliothekarin, Mae, die in einer Kleinstadt in Texas wohnt. Sie arbeitet viel, um die Arztrechnungen ihrer kranken Mutter zu begleichen. Eines Tages entdeckt sie einen schlafenden Mann in ihrer Bibliothek und nach kurzer Abneigung freunden sich die beiden an. Chris ist ein berühmter Sportler und macht gerade Urlaub in der Kleinstadt. Nach kurzer Zeit überschlagen sich die Ereignisse und die beiden gehen eine Fake Beziehung ein.
Der Schreibstil hat mir schon nach dem ersten Kapitel sehr gut gefallen. Das Buch lässt sich extrem flüssig lesen und die 450 Seiten kamen mir sehr kurzweilig vor. Besonders gut hat mir der Humor gefallen. Die Diagloge oder Nachrichten zwischen Mae und Chris haben mich oft zum Schmunzeln gebracht. Die Anmachsprüche zu Beginn des jeweiligen Kapitels waren so lustig und ich habe erst am Ende gelesen, dass die Autorin diese von ihren Lesern aus den sozialen Medien genommen hat. Genial! Neben all den lustigen Sachen hat mir aber auch die Tiefe der Charaktere gefallen. Vor allem Mae hatte wirklich ihr Päckchen zu tragen. Und die Liebe... hach, das war wirklich herzerwärmend. Die beiden hatten eine schöne Chemie und es war schön zu lesen, wie sie sich langsam näher kamen. Vor allem langsam - dieser Roman hat ein sehr geduldigen slow burn Aspekt.
Zusammenfassend kann ich den Roman wirklich empfehlen. Er ist cozy, romantisch und mit genau der richtigen Menge Witz und Charme, den ein guter RomCom braucht.
October 15, 2023
Mae can’t lock up the library until the guy asleep at his desk leaves. The mystery man finally wakes up—just in time to hear a steamy scene from Mae’s audiobook. The man turns out to be annoyingly handsome all-star NFL player Chris Stern. He keeps returning to the library, and winding Mae up may be his new favorite sport. But when a photo of him stumbling out of a Las Vegas club with a woman in tow is leaked to the press, Chris needs to fix his public image fast. He proposes a deal to Mae: if she agrees to be his fake fiancé, he’ll pay her—enough to pay off her mom’s medical bills. Could a fake engagement be the perfect fake out for Mae and Chris? Or are they playing a game they can’t win?
Another @netgalley ARC! 😅 Fall is the perfect time to read a sports romance, and I love a good fake dating story! Mae’s character was cute, quirky, funny, and string, making her a great protagonist. Chris really balanced her out well and I love how he was able to recognized that she needed someone to look out for her when she was so busy taking care of others. One thing I didn’t particularly care for was that Mae was oblivious to Chris’s feelings, and failed to give voice to her own, for the majority of the novel. But the story was cute and funny with a fast and engaging plot, so I was able to get past this. The Fake Out is out now, and it’s available on Kindle Unlimited! 3.5 stars rounded up
Another @netgalley ARC! 😅 Fall is the perfect time to read a sports romance, and I love a good fake dating story! Mae’s character was cute, quirky, funny, and string, making her a great protagonist. Chris really balanced her out well and I love how he was able to recognized that she needed someone to look out for her when she was so busy taking care of others. One thing I didn’t particularly care for was that Mae was oblivious to Chris’s feelings, and failed to give voice to her own, for the majority of the novel. But the story was cute and funny with a fast and engaging plot, so I was able to get past this. The Fake Out is out now, and it’s available on Kindle Unlimited! 3.5 stars rounded up
July 18, 2023
*4.5
Oh this was so much fun and not at all what I expected! I went into this with hopes of having my normal average fun with a sweet rom-com but it felt so much more than this. There was some excellent character growth and progression, a sweet love blossoming, hilarious chapter openers with some cheesy pick-up lines, fun MC���s with huge families and the writing was delicious I ate it up!
My favourite part was honestly each chapter opening with a pick-up line, they were so funny and made the book so lighthearted and fun!
I loved all the characters, the reverse grumpy sunshine was definitely a treat and also fresh instead of it being a grumpy MMC! (Not that I ever complain about that, who would)
Maebell, firstly what a sweet name!? She was grumpy, moody, glass half empty. But she had so much character growth. She went from not believing in romance like in her novels to obviously falling for Chris!
And Chris was a sweetie! The perfect cinnamon roll boyfriend and I was HERE for that!
He also had such a big family and really cared for his sister, was a huge reader, and was 6”5? Do you need anything else in a man?! I think not.
Iris was also funny, Mae’s sister. She was witty and definitely had some character depth I did not expect either!
I enjoy their father being a part of the story to add some necessary family drama into the mix!
This has forced proximity, grumpy sunshine, fake-dating (fake engagement) and was such a sweet fun and hilarious rom-com. Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
Oh this was so much fun and not at all what I expected! I went into this with hopes of having my normal average fun with a sweet rom-com but it felt so much more than this. There was some excellent character growth and progression, a sweet love blossoming, hilarious chapter openers with some cheesy pick-up lines, fun MC���s with huge families and the writing was delicious I ate it up!
My favourite part was honestly each chapter opening with a pick-up line, they were so funny and made the book so lighthearted and fun!
I loved all the characters, the reverse grumpy sunshine was definitely a treat and also fresh instead of it being a grumpy MMC! (Not that I ever complain about that, who would)
Maebell, firstly what a sweet name!? She was grumpy, moody, glass half empty. But she had so much character growth. She went from not believing in romance like in her novels to obviously falling for Chris!
And Chris was a sweetie! The perfect cinnamon roll boyfriend and I was HERE for that!
He also had such a big family and really cared for his sister, was a huge reader, and was 6”5? Do you need anything else in a man?! I think not.
Iris was also funny, Mae’s sister. She was witty and definitely had some character depth I did not expect either!
I enjoy their father being a part of the story to add some necessary family drama into the mix!
This has forced proximity, grumpy sunshine, fake-dating (fake engagement) and was such a sweet fun and hilarious rom-com. Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an ARC.
June 27, 2023
A fake engagement to save the reputation of a famous golden retriever footballer and the local library?
In the story "The Fakeout" by Sharon M. Peterson, we see the cute story of Chris and Mae. As a librarian, Mae is used to being the local grump. While closing one night, she finds Chris, asleep on a table. Chris is trying to leave the rumours that have ruined his reputation, he falls for Mae's firey personality and her love for everyone around her. Their love story is well-written and enjoyable.
I loved Mae's character, she has a guard up due to her past. Her way of processing is understandable and the way she refuses to feel and help is SO RELATABLE. She is somewhat of a glass child, forced to grow up so early on and wants to always protect her Mum and sister. Mae may seem childish at times, but being forced to grow up early, she never had a childhood and was able to process the emotions. Chris is the same, as he's the oldest and is a Glass child. He understands Mae on another level. His career helped him with processing, unlike Mae. I was annoyed by some of the childish acts, but remember the reason she is the way she is. I loved this book, I can't wait until/or if it's released on audio! It is going to be one of my favourites of all time!!!
It's somewhat of a clean romance, just kissing and no shirts. I highly recommend this book!
Thank you to NetGalley for this amazing read!!!
In the story "The Fakeout" by Sharon M. Peterson, we see the cute story of Chris and Mae. As a librarian, Mae is used to being the local grump. While closing one night, she finds Chris, asleep on a table. Chris is trying to leave the rumours that have ruined his reputation, he falls for Mae's firey personality and her love for everyone around her. Their love story is well-written and enjoyable.
I loved Mae's character, she has a guard up due to her past. Her way of processing is understandable and the way she refuses to feel and help is SO RELATABLE. She is somewhat of a glass child, forced to grow up so early on and wants to always protect her Mum and sister. Mae may seem childish at times, but being forced to grow up early, she never had a childhood and was able to process the emotions. Chris is the same, as he's the oldest and is a Glass child. He understands Mae on another level. His career helped him with processing, unlike Mae. I was annoyed by some of the childish acts, but remember the reason she is the way she is. I loved this book, I can't wait until/or if it's released on audio! It is going to be one of my favourites of all time!!!
It's somewhat of a clean romance, just kissing and no shirts. I highly recommend this book!
Thank you to NetGalley for this amazing read!!!
May 23, 2023
BLURB:
I can’t lock up the library until the guy asleep at his desk leaves. Thank the universe for audiobooks because I could be here all night. But I see his mouth twitch at the exact moment a steamy kiss takes place. My face burns when I realize my headphones aren’t plugged in and my phone is at full volume.
It's not every day you see a new face in my small hometown of Two Harts, let alone one belonging to an annoyingly handsome all-star NFL player. But for some reason Chris Sterns has decided that the library where I work is his go-to spot to hide from his mega-fans, and unfortunately, winding me up is his new favorite sport.
Being crowned “world’s sexiest man” has done little to curb his confident charm and when he somehow ropes me into his two-person book club, I can’t help warming to his endless positivity.
But when a photo of him stumbling out of a Las Vegas club with a woman in tow is leaked to the press, I can’t help but question whether his good boy persona is just an act.
And that’s far from the only answer I’m left searching for when Chris pops the question I’ve only ever heard in my favorite romance books. Did he really just ask me to marry him?
It’s not the proposal I was expecting, but with my mom’s medical bills piling up faster than I can pay them, and with the scandal threatening to ruin everything Chris has worked for; could an engagement be the perfect fake out for us both? Or is this a game we’ll both lose?
MY REVIEW:
I loved this book! I found it so funny, there were so many cringe moments that I could fully relate to, which had me feeling embarrassed for the main character.
I’m a sucker for a fake relationship romance, and this one didn’t disappoint. Although utterly predictable, as any good romance book should be, it was such a fun read.
This light-hearted book was a quick read, finished in under an hour.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
I can’t lock up the library until the guy asleep at his desk leaves. Thank the universe for audiobooks because I could be here all night. But I see his mouth twitch at the exact moment a steamy kiss takes place. My face burns when I realize my headphones aren’t plugged in and my phone is at full volume.
It's not every day you see a new face in my small hometown of Two Harts, let alone one belonging to an annoyingly handsome all-star NFL player. But for some reason Chris Sterns has decided that the library where I work is his go-to spot to hide from his mega-fans, and unfortunately, winding me up is his new favorite sport.
Being crowned “world’s sexiest man” has done little to curb his confident charm and when he somehow ropes me into his two-person book club, I can’t help warming to his endless positivity.
But when a photo of him stumbling out of a Las Vegas club with a woman in tow is leaked to the press, I can’t help but question whether his good boy persona is just an act.
And that’s far from the only answer I’m left searching for when Chris pops the question I’ve only ever heard in my favorite romance books. Did he really just ask me to marry him?
It’s not the proposal I was expecting, but with my mom’s medical bills piling up faster than I can pay them, and with the scandal threatening to ruin everything Chris has worked for; could an engagement be the perfect fake out for us both? Or is this a game we’ll both lose?
MY REVIEW:
I loved this book! I found it so funny, there were so many cringe moments that I could fully relate to, which had me feeling embarrassed for the main character.
I’m a sucker for a fake relationship romance, and this one didn’t disappoint. Although utterly predictable, as any good romance book should be, it was such a fun read.
This light-hearted book was a quick read, finished in under an hour.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
June 12, 2023
I received a free eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely adored this book. I read it in one day, it was just so addictingly adorable and funny.
The pick up lines at every chapter opening were my favourite part... but I really enjoyed Mae and Chris, and the cast of characters around this. I wanted to spend more time with Chris' sisters, and Iris, and Ali... everyone was just so much fun.
It is all very predictable in the best way possible - it would definitely be a great comfort read to pick up time and time again. There is great chemistry and classic antics and it just read like a big cozy hug.
10/10 would fully recommend and will definitely want to read again.
I absolutely adored this book. I read it in one day, it was just so addictingly adorable and funny.
The pick up lines at every chapter opening were my favourite part... but I really enjoyed Mae and Chris, and the cast of characters around this. I wanted to spend more time with Chris' sisters, and Iris, and Ali... everyone was just so much fun.
It is all very predictable in the best way possible - it would definitely be a great comfort read to pick up time and time again. There is great chemistry and classic antics and it just read like a big cozy hug.
10/10 would fully recommend and will definitely want to read again.
July 6, 2023
The Fake Out is a delightful fake engagement romcom! I absolutely loved all of the characters (Chris may be the perfect man) and I laughed out loud at all their witty banter and incredibly cheesy pickup lines (it’s definitely worth reading just for these).
I was sold on this book within the first chapter and I could not stop reading it. It’s sweet, lighthearted, fun, and the characters have amazing chemistry. My one wish was for more of their book club content because I would love to be able to be a part of it 🥲
Here’s hoping for more books in this series! (Maybe about Ali or Ellie??)
* Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was sold on this book within the first chapter and I could not stop reading it. It’s sweet, lighthearted, fun, and the characters have amazing chemistry. My one wish was for more of their book club content because I would love to be able to be a part of it 🥲
Here’s hoping for more books in this series! (Maybe about Ali or Ellie??)
* Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2023
read if you love:
•reverse grumpy x sunshine
•he falls first
•sports romance
•fake engagement
•bookish hero
this book was all things a perfect romcom should be — original meet cute, great banter and hilarious lol moments among so many other things i absolutely loved about this book.
MAE! oh my goodness, does this woman speak my language. she was the ultimate blend of sass and sarcasm and is easily my favorite grumpy heroine. her quick wit and sharp tongue was perfection and i love the way chris handled her. her prickly nature never got to him and his golden retriever personality balanced mae out in the most beautiful way.
i loved watching these two fall in love. it was easy to see chris’ feelings even though we only had mae’s pov. he truly SAW her, and the special way he told her “i love you” turned me into an absolute puddle.
this book was so much more than a romcom;
at its core is a heartwarming story. i loved mae’s relationship with her sister iris and all she was willing to do for her family. i loved mae and chris’ book club and them picking out books together. i love how much the town rallied to try to save the library. i loved chris’ nicknames for mae and his protective nature. ahhhh i loved this book and there is so much more, but you should just read it for yourself to enjoy this story of pure delight!!
thank you to netgalley for an advanced copy. my thoughts are my own.
•reverse grumpy x sunshine
•he falls first
•sports romance
•fake engagement
•bookish hero
this book was all things a perfect romcom should be — original meet cute, great banter and hilarious lol moments among so many other things i absolutely loved about this book.
MAE! oh my goodness, does this woman speak my language. she was the ultimate blend of sass and sarcasm and is easily my favorite grumpy heroine. her quick wit and sharp tongue was perfection and i love the way chris handled her. her prickly nature never got to him and his golden retriever personality balanced mae out in the most beautiful way.
i loved watching these two fall in love. it was easy to see chris’ feelings even though we only had mae’s pov. he truly SAW her, and the special way he told her “i love you” turned me into an absolute puddle.
this book was so much more than a romcom;
at its core is a heartwarming story. i loved mae’s relationship with her sister iris and all she was willing to do for her family. i loved mae and chris’ book club and them picking out books together. i love how much the town rallied to try to save the library. i loved chris’ nicknames for mae and his protective nature. ahhhh i loved this book and there is so much more, but you should just read it for yourself to enjoy this story of pure delight!!
thank you to netgalley for an advanced copy. my thoughts are my own.
June 27, 2023
“You suit me.”
A cheerful contemporary romance with unexpected turns is called "The Fake Out" by Sharon M. Peterson. This book is a pleasant escape into a world of love, humour, and unspoken truths thanks to its clever premise and entertaining banter. Mae Sampson, a librarian in the sleepy town of Two Harts, whose routine is upended when charming and gorgeous all-star NFL player Chris Sterns begins visiting the library to get away from his devoted admirers. Despite Chris's propensity for teasing, she finds herself getting dragged into his orbit as their paths cross.
With funny bits and touching dialogues, the embarrassing incident with the protagonist's unintentionally blasting audio and the subsequent mishap sets the stage for a tale full of amusing binders. The fake engagement adds an element of fascination and creates a number of amusing scenarios and unexpected difficulties. Readers are led on a rollercoaster of emotions and revelations as the protagonist and Chris starts their unusual reading club and negotiate the difficulties of their newfound bond.
The chemistry is undeniable, and their banter gives their romance a charming flare. A delightful romance arc is created by the changing dynamics and the protagonist's growing fondness for Chris's optimism and charm. The plot is lighthearted and fans of rom-coms looking for a fun and uplifting read will find it to be the perfect pick because of the captivating writing style and the clever plot. Get ready to be engrossed in Mae's journey as she negotiates the complexity of love, trust, and the potential for a phoney engagement that could have more at stake than meets the eye. (And the most hilarious pick-up lines!!).
A cheerful contemporary romance with unexpected turns is called "The Fake Out" by Sharon M. Peterson. This book is a pleasant escape into a world of love, humour, and unspoken truths thanks to its clever premise and entertaining banter. Mae Sampson, a librarian in the sleepy town of Two Harts, whose routine is upended when charming and gorgeous all-star NFL player Chris Sterns begins visiting the library to get away from his devoted admirers. Despite Chris's propensity for teasing, she finds herself getting dragged into his orbit as their paths cross.
With funny bits and touching dialogues, the embarrassing incident with the protagonist's unintentionally blasting audio and the subsequent mishap sets the stage for a tale full of amusing binders. The fake engagement adds an element of fascination and creates a number of amusing scenarios and unexpected difficulties. Readers are led on a rollercoaster of emotions and revelations as the protagonist and Chris starts their unusual reading club and negotiate the difficulties of their newfound bond.
The chemistry is undeniable, and their banter gives their romance a charming flare. A delightful romance arc is created by the changing dynamics and the protagonist's growing fondness for Chris's optimism and charm. The plot is lighthearted and fans of rom-coms looking for a fun and uplifting read will find it to be the perfect pick because of the captivating writing style and the clever plot. Get ready to be engrossed in Mae's journey as she negotiates the complexity of love, trust, and the potential for a phoney engagement that could have more at stake than meets the eye. (And the most hilarious pick-up lines!!).
October 11, 2023
if you know me you know i absolutely LOVE banter in books. well that’s why i also LOVED this book! it was so good. there are so many of my favorite tropes in here and the characters are hilarious! i love when the girl is the black cat and the guy is the golden retriever because OH EM GEE.. anyways the tropes i found in this book were: friends to lovers, one bed, marriage of convenience, fake dating, grumpyxsunshine, and small town!! also the librarian x nfl player is FANTASTIC!!
May 17, 2025
This was such a cute book.
First, a book that put a spot on librarian and how important and full of struggles her work is always a good idea to me.
Second - the H, I mean, he is so perfect - charming and thoughtful and generous, and smart And his family is the best!
The first meeting and him. Coming specifically to her hometown was a little forced but that's just overlooking into the plot.
First, a book that put a spot on librarian and how important and full of struggles her work is always a good idea to me.
Second - the H, I mean, he is so perfect - charming and thoughtful and generous, and smart And his family is the best!
The first meeting and him. Coming specifically to her hometown was a little forced but that's just overlooking into the plot.
May 29, 2023
I knew I would love this book once I learned that it contained a fake engagement, but I didn't know how much I would love it. I was consistently giggling and swooning while reading.
The tropes of this book include: grumpyXsunshine, fake dating, she fell but he fell harder, I've loved you since I met you, and small town.
I just want to start off by stating beware of the SLOW burn of this book. I loved every second of it but was not prepared ahead of time (that is my fault). The banter between Chris and Mae fulfills my every wish for the grumpy sunshine trope. The two MCs worked so well together and I connected to each of them so easily. Mae's backstory made my heart hurt, but the way Chris taught her that it's okay to let someone else take care of you made my heart burst. The two of them brought each other exactly what they needed and I would kill to read more about their relationship.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me this arc to read! I would recommend this book to anyone whole loves a slow burn and some good banter!
The tropes of this book include: grumpyXsunshine, fake dating, she fell but he fell harder, I've loved you since I met you, and small town.
I just want to start off by stating beware of the SLOW burn of this book. I loved every second of it but was not prepared ahead of time (that is my fault). The banter between Chris and Mae fulfills my every wish for the grumpy sunshine trope. The two MCs worked so well together and I connected to each of them so easily. Mae's backstory made my heart hurt, but the way Chris taught her that it's okay to let someone else take care of you made my heart burst. The two of them brought each other exactly what they needed and I would kill to read more about their relationship.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me this arc to read! I would recommend this book to anyone whole loves a slow burn and some good banter!
September 24, 2023
*Thank you netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book to review, all opinions are my own*
I did not imagine I would love this book so much but I am so glad I did, I needed do read a 5 star book.
This book has everything you want in a romance!
I fell in love with our main male character and his attitudes.
I like how this book use all of the cliches well and developed a beautiful love story.
I highly recommend this book if you want a good, sweet and quick romance book!
I did not imagine I would love this book so much but I am so glad I did, I needed do read a 5 star book.
This book has everything you want in a romance!
I fell in love with our main male character and his attitudes.
I like how this book use all of the cliches well and developed a beautiful love story.
I highly recommend this book if you want a good, sweet and quick romance book!
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