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The Boyfriend Countdown
Margo Diaz has a reputation as a workaholic. Everyone knows where she eats her lunch— at her desk, and where she spends her Friday nights— at the office. But when her ex-boyfriend announces his engagement to the same woman who broke up their relationship, she finds herself tangled in a lie. Because the only thing worse than working with your ex is telling everyone you have a boyfriend when you don’t. Forced to plan a New Year’s gala to impress a client, Margo finds herself promising everyone will meet her plus one. And with her name in the running for a promotion, she really can’t screw this up. She has to find a boyfriend, and a twelve-day online blind dating service is just the ticket she needs. Everything is fine, Margo has a plan. That’s until she discovers her blind-date is Richard, the tall, attractive man she bumped into a few weeks ago. Not needing any distractions, she’s determined to keep the lie going to show everyone she can have it all— a career, a family, a (fake) boyfriend. Except, Richard isn’t what she thought and her attraction for him grows harder to ignore. Yet Margo is committed to keeping herself away. How will Margo convince everyone she’s been dating a man she’s never met? Can she risk telling the truth or will she let her lie ruin more than her reputation? With a week left before the gala, the boyfriend countdown is on.
A Holi-FATE Collection Novel.
A Holi-FATE Collection Novel.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2023
84 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
January 15, 2024
A great read for the festive period
The Boyfriend Countdown (A Holi-FATE Novel) by Tori Samuels
Having read The Holiday Match I was very intrigued to see what The Boyfriend Countdown was about. I loved how it was a carry-on of the first book, but it switched POVs. Having felt like I already knew Richard, it was great to get to know Margo. The story focused on the couple as we were introduced to new characters, and the odd old one.
After being cheated on by her long-term boyfriend, Margo’s heart is closed. She doesn’t need a boyfriend, she needs a date for her work’s New Year’s Eve party. Can she stop herself catching feelings for Richard?
The Boyfriend Countdown (A Holi-FATE Novel) by Tori Samuels
Having read The Holiday Match I was very intrigued to see what The Boyfriend Countdown was about. I loved how it was a carry-on of the first book, but it switched POVs. Having felt like I already knew Richard, it was great to get to know Margo. The story focused on the couple as we were introduced to new characters, and the odd old one.
After being cheated on by her long-term boyfriend, Margo’s heart is closed. She doesn’t need a boyfriend, she needs a date for her work’s New Year’s Eve party. Can she stop herself catching feelings for Richard?
November 18, 2023
Book Review
The Boyfriend Countdown by Tori Samuels
A Holi-FATE Novel
Thoughts
📚Same storyline as The Holiday Match told in Margos POV
📚Less on the bromance focus
📚Lots of convenient coincidences that felt like right time and place or fate lending a helping hand to the budding romance between Margo and Richie
📚Margo is trying to find a balance with work, friends, family
📚🔥 🔥🔥STEAM (Richie found his confidence)
Another solid read,
Predictable but entertaining
Happily ever after guaranteed
The Boyfriend Countdown by Tori Samuels
A Holi-FATE Novel
Thoughts
📚Same storyline as The Holiday Match told in Margos POV
📚Less on the bromance focus
📚Lots of convenient coincidences that felt like right time and place or fate lending a helping hand to the budding romance between Margo and Richie
📚Margo is trying to find a balance with work, friends, family
📚🔥 🔥🔥STEAM (Richie found his confidence)
Another solid read,
Predictable but entertaining
Happily ever after guaranteed
December 6, 2023
The characters are so fun! I especially enjoyed Richard's relationship with his brother and friends. Margo has a lot of insecurities but she grows a lot throughout the book. This book happens in the span of a week
Richard is a total flirt, and I love it! I also enjoyed the little Hispanic moments in the book. I'm Hispanic, and I was able to relate to Margo. Such a roller-coaster with these two, but I really enjoyed it.
It's a great comfy holiday read
🌶🌶/5
Richard is a total flirt, and I love it! I also enjoyed the little Hispanic moments in the book. I'm Hispanic, and I was able to relate to Margo. Such a roller-coaster with these two, but I really enjoyed it.
It's a great comfy holiday read
🌶🌶/5
April 9, 2025
A very cute holiday book. I love the small town romance books and this one was just so cute. This is a delightful and fun holiday romance that captures the spirit of the season. The characters are endearing and relatable, particularly Richard with his charming flirtatiousness and Margo with her endearing insecurities. I would have loved Richard’s point of view. He's just absolutely perfect.
April 7, 2025
This was a fun and charming holiday story about learning to love again. Margo needed to get away from her ex and at a gala ended up getting a blind date from an auction. They had some ups and downs but came together to realize they were able to learn to love again.
April 9, 2025
Richard and Margo 4eva. The app worked, the meet-cute was meet-cuting and these two are perfect.
I kind of wish we saw more conflict come from Margo’s incessant lies, but I’m glad the HEA happened either way.
What in the world are these people drinking though oh my GOD.
I kind of wish we saw more conflict come from Margo’s incessant lies, but I’m glad the HEA happened either way.
What in the world are these people drinking though oh my GOD.
November 8, 2023
Oh great!! This story is so sweet and simple that it melts my heart. The peppermint mocha is my favourite. Tori did beautifully with writing Margo & Richard. The emotions are clearly shown, and the best thing about this story is that it is relatable to our day-to-day occurrences. It felt like a real-life story. The drama and insecurities are so true that it touches my heart. It is a great holiday book to read and relax and unwind yourself from all your stressed daily life. The characters brought life to the plot by being strong charismatic and unfiltered versions of themselves. I really like both of them and understand every aspect of it. I hope you all enjoy it too.
November 9, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This book was my first approach to Tori Samuels’s writing, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable one. The author shows a lot of promise for the rom-com genre, which I’ve been feeling is becoming more and more stagnant and devoid of heart.
Where I’ve read many romance with leads who didn’t have a shred of chemistry, Margo and Richard have an undeniable connection. They’re physically attracted to each other, but they also share easy banter and have genuine fun together. I liked that, while they had cute run-ins, the story focused on them making time to go on dates, like mature adults.
Here I have to insert a critique. Although The Boyfriend Countdown is sold as a standalone novel, my impression is that you can’t fully enjoy it without reading The Holiday Match first. The story seems to start after the real beginning; we don’t see Margo signing up for the Secret Santa matchmaking service, or her and Richard’s text conversation from Margo’s perspective. Richard also feels like less of a rounded character in this book: he has no personal conflict, and Margo is only made aware of his turmoil in the last chapter, so there isn’t any time for them to face it together. If I hadn’t decided to read THM after a few chapters, before carrying on with TBC, I wouldn’t know the true depth of his character.
So, while I like Richard, and I found his story compelling and personality well-rounded, I can’t talk about him in this book as positively as I can for Margo. I was rooting for her from beginning to end as she treaded the path of emotional healing from what her ex did to her, opening herself up and finding a new balance in life. When Margo made mistakes, they were a believable part of her journey, that could never be straightforward. And I don’t want to spoil anything, but her nostalgia and wish to reconnect with her origins made for an equally beautiful arc.
On a similar note as to what I wrote before, the secondary characters have barely any space in the story, especially compared to the ones in THM. Margo’s family, friends and colleagues make enough appearances to get a general understanding of their personalities, but their presence seems like an afterthought. For example, the scenes between Margo and her best friend Jane aren’t comparable in number to the ones Richard had with his best friends in THM.
My final comment is on the writing style, which here is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, TBC is part of the embarrassingly small list of romance books that care about the prose, building atmosphere and giving the reader descriptions of things other than the male love interest’s abs. On the other hand, it often hammers down Margo’s internal conflict and emotions, telling instead of showing them. If this problem were fixed, the book would instantly level up.
The pros still outweigh the cons for me. Samuels isn’t an experienced author and she shows a lot of potential for writing great romance novels, so I’m definitely going to keep an eye on her. 3,5/⭐
This book was my first approach to Tori Samuels’s writing, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable one. The author shows a lot of promise for the rom-com genre, which I’ve been feeling is becoming more and more stagnant and devoid of heart.
Where I’ve read many romance with leads who didn’t have a shred of chemistry, Margo and Richard have an undeniable connection. They’re physically attracted to each other, but they also share easy banter and have genuine fun together. I liked that, while they had cute run-ins, the story focused on them making time to go on dates, like mature adults.
Here I have to insert a critique. Although The Boyfriend Countdown is sold as a standalone novel, my impression is that you can’t fully enjoy it without reading The Holiday Match first. The story seems to start after the real beginning; we don’t see Margo signing up for the Secret Santa matchmaking service, or her and Richard’s text conversation from Margo’s perspective. Richard also feels like less of a rounded character in this book: he has no personal conflict, and Margo is only made aware of his turmoil in the last chapter, so there isn’t any time for them to face it together. If I hadn’t decided to read THM after a few chapters, before carrying on with TBC, I wouldn’t know the true depth of his character.
So, while I like Richard, and I found his story compelling and personality well-rounded, I can’t talk about him in this book as positively as I can for Margo. I was rooting for her from beginning to end as she treaded the path of emotional healing from what her ex did to her, opening herself up and finding a new balance in life. When Margo made mistakes, they were a believable part of her journey, that could never be straightforward. And I don’t want to spoil anything, but her nostalgia and wish to reconnect with her origins made for an equally beautiful arc.
On a similar note as to what I wrote before, the secondary characters have barely any space in the story, especially compared to the ones in THM. Margo’s family, friends and colleagues make enough appearances to get a general understanding of their personalities, but their presence seems like an afterthought. For example, the scenes between Margo and her best friend Jane aren’t comparable in number to the ones Richard had with his best friends in THM.
My final comment is on the writing style, which here is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, TBC is part of the embarrassingly small list of romance books that care about the prose, building atmosphere and giving the reader descriptions of things other than the male love interest’s abs. On the other hand, it often hammers down Margo’s internal conflict and emotions, telling instead of showing them. If this problem were fixed, the book would instantly level up.
The pros still outweigh the cons for me. Samuels isn’t an experienced author and she shows a lot of potential for writing great romance novels, so I’m definitely going to keep an eye on her. 3,5/⭐
November 1, 2023
** I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review**
I loved this book. It is book 2 of the Holi-Fate novels, so although it is a stand-alone book, I would recommend reading the first book The Holiday Match so that you can get a feel for the characters and a little bit more of the story.
This book is told from Margo’s POV (the first book was from Richard’s). Margo needs a date for a work gala and after telling a little white lie of already having a boyfriend, she figures that her 12 date online secret Santa (who also happens to be the hot guy she met a week ago) will fit into that spot. All she wants right now, is to get her promotion and show her ex-boyfriend who is also up for the same promotion that she has moved on to bigger and better than him.
However, little by little, as they start spending real time together, and Richard helps her with the Gala, he starts chipping away at that wall around her heart and the once little lie turns into a heartfelt wish. Margo is definitely attracted to Richard but her trust issues make it hard not to pull away when what her heart wants is to get closer to him.
I absolutely loved Richard even more in this book.! He is sexy, sweet, caring and attentive, everything you want in your book boyfriend! He wants to show Margo that she is beautiful and deserves to be happy and to be cherished by someone totally into her first and foremost.
There are some great spicy scenes in this book as Richard and Margo navigate this new phase in their relationship and I’m pretty sure I will never look at paint the same way again! The sexy banter between Margo and Richard is fantastic!
I thought this was a fun, sexy rom com with wonderfully written character growth and I hope that we get to see some more of their friends as well. The secondary characters in this book are just as fun!
I loved this book. It is book 2 of the Holi-Fate novels, so although it is a stand-alone book, I would recommend reading the first book The Holiday Match so that you can get a feel for the characters and a little bit more of the story.
This book is told from Margo’s POV (the first book was from Richard’s). Margo needs a date for a work gala and after telling a little white lie of already having a boyfriend, she figures that her 12 date online secret Santa (who also happens to be the hot guy she met a week ago) will fit into that spot. All she wants right now, is to get her promotion and show her ex-boyfriend who is also up for the same promotion that she has moved on to bigger and better than him.
However, little by little, as they start spending real time together, and Richard helps her with the Gala, he starts chipping away at that wall around her heart and the once little lie turns into a heartfelt wish. Margo is definitely attracted to Richard but her trust issues make it hard not to pull away when what her heart wants is to get closer to him.
I absolutely loved Richard even more in this book.! He is sexy, sweet, caring and attentive, everything you want in your book boyfriend! He wants to show Margo that she is beautiful and deserves to be happy and to be cherished by someone totally into her first and foremost.
There are some great spicy scenes in this book as Richard and Margo navigate this new phase in their relationship and I’m pretty sure I will never look at paint the same way again! The sexy banter between Margo and Richard is fantastic!
I thought this was a fun, sexy rom com with wonderfully written character growth and I hope that we get to see some more of their friends as well. The secondary characters in this book are just as fun!
November 13, 2023
First of all, let me tell you that this book got me out of my first major reading slump! That’s no small feat! 😱😍
Here’s what I liked about the story:
- I love a strong, independent FMC with recovery from a cheating boyfriend, and that’s exactly what we have with Margo!
- Richard is a dreamy MMC, genuinely sweet, and I couldn't help but root for him and Margo.
- Dessert coffees all day, every day, yes please!! I’ve been craving a peppermint mocha ever since I started reading "The Boyfriend Countdown"! 🤣🤣
- Not really a fake-dating story, which is great because I don’t particularly like this trope!
- Side characters that had me wishing they were my friends in real life! 🥰
For what I didn’t like so much, the list is very short! I had some trouble with the author’s writing style at first (which is a me problem, I’m very picky) but as the story progressed, I really enjoyed having access to Margo’s inner thoughts and self-questions; it just took me a couple of chapters to get used to it! The other thing I wished was different was the fact that this is a single POV book, and I prefer a dual POV. I adore reading the MMC’s POV, but again, that’s a me problem! 😉Ah also! Richard as a name… 🥸🤣 It’s an old person’s name in my head, but that’s mostly because I’m French Canadian and there’s like 0 young Richard here! 🤣🤣 Again, it takes nothing away from the story, and I kinda fell in love with the name after a couple of chapters, one in particular had me very invested in the name… 🤫😏🤣
So yeah, loved this holiday story; it was a fun, easy read, and I was rooting for Margo and Richard throughout the story! 🥰
Here’s what I liked about the story:
- I love a strong, independent FMC with recovery from a cheating boyfriend, and that’s exactly what we have with Margo!
- Richard is a dreamy MMC, genuinely sweet, and I couldn't help but root for him and Margo.
- Dessert coffees all day, every day, yes please!! I’ve been craving a peppermint mocha ever since I started reading "The Boyfriend Countdown"! 🤣🤣
- Not really a fake-dating story, which is great because I don’t particularly like this trope!
- Side characters that had me wishing they were my friends in real life! 🥰
For what I didn’t like so much, the list is very short! I had some trouble with the author’s writing style at first (which is a me problem, I’m very picky) but as the story progressed, I really enjoyed having access to Margo’s inner thoughts and self-questions; it just took me a couple of chapters to get used to it! The other thing I wished was different was the fact that this is a single POV book, and I prefer a dual POV. I adore reading the MMC’s POV, but again, that’s a me problem! 😉Ah also! Richard as a name… 🥸🤣 It’s an old person’s name in my head, but that’s mostly because I’m French Canadian and there’s like 0 young Richard here! 🤣🤣 Again, it takes nothing away from the story, and I kinda fell in love with the name after a couple of chapters, one in particular had me very invested in the name… 🤫😏🤣
So yeah, loved this holiday story; it was a fun, easy read, and I was rooting for Margo and Richard throughout the story! 🥰
May 2, 2025
First off thank you to author Tori Samuels for and e-ARC of this book in exchange my honest review.
This is book 1 of the Holi-FATE series and is told in Margo's POV. Margo Diaz needs a date for her work NYE gala. She is also up for a promotion at her accounting firm and her competition is her ex-boyfriend who cheated on her and is getting engaged to the woman he cheated with. She hasn't had a relationship since the breakup and has buried herself in work. She signs up or a Secret Santa dating match and is matched with Richard the hot guy who saved her dad at the tree farm. Margo has always thought she was never good enough and only planned on getting to know him so she could ask him to her work gala but doesn't expect to fall for him and she is very insecure. She doesn't think she can have it all: the job, the man and a life since she is a workaholic.
Richard is a carpenter was signed up for the Secret Santa by his ex-girlfriend as a joke but when he meets Margo he falls for her. He takes her on cute dates and does little things for her. I loved the texts between them and the witty banter. I also loved how they each have a supportive friends group.
I really enjoyed this story. I love Margo's journey in this story to overcome her insecurities. It's a cute spicy holiday read with fun characters and a happy ending. I really like Tori Samuel's writing style. I appreciate how authentic and her sensitivity to bringing out Margo's Mexican heritage in the book. I can't wait for her next book.
This is book 1 of the Holi-FATE series and is told in Margo's POV. Margo Diaz needs a date for her work NYE gala. She is also up for a promotion at her accounting firm and her competition is her ex-boyfriend who cheated on her and is getting engaged to the woman he cheated with. She hasn't had a relationship since the breakup and has buried herself in work. She signs up or a Secret Santa dating match and is matched with Richard the hot guy who saved her dad at the tree farm. Margo has always thought she was never good enough and only planned on getting to know him so she could ask him to her work gala but doesn't expect to fall for him and she is very insecure. She doesn't think she can have it all: the job, the man and a life since she is a workaholic.
Richard is a carpenter was signed up for the Secret Santa by his ex-girlfriend as a joke but when he meets Margo he falls for her. He takes her on cute dates and does little things for her. I loved the texts between them and the witty banter. I also loved how they each have a supportive friends group.
I really enjoyed this story. I love Margo's journey in this story to overcome her insecurities. It's a cute spicy holiday read with fun characters and a happy ending. I really like Tori Samuel's writing style. I appreciate how authentic and her sensitivity to bringing out Margo's Mexican heritage in the book. I can't wait for her next book.
October 31, 2023
The Boyfriend Countdown (Holi-FATE Novel #2)
4.5/5
Tropes:
❄️ Small Town Romance
❄️ Holiday Season
❄️ Fake Dating (but only one of them knows)
🌶️ Spice: 2/5
💭 Thoughts:
An adorable, well-rounded holiday novel full of romance tropes we know and love 🎄
Following “The Holiday Match”, “The Boyfriend Countdown” can be read as a standalone but I would highly recommend reading the aforementioned novel to fully appreciate each character’s development and ensure a firm grasp on the storyline.
Told from Margo’s point of view, I thoroughly enjoyed the shift in perspective. After familiarizing myself with Richard’s internal monologue, it was a great change of pace to experience and learn about Margo’s. Much like Richard, she underwent tremendous character development, from which you can’t help but root for her to get out of her own way.
I didn’t love the third act miscommunication/breakup trope, but that’s purely a personal preference and it did not take away from the story in any way.
With plenty of humour, witty banter, and a dash of spice, The Boyfriend Countdown is the perfect holiday read. I look forward to Samuels’ next instalment, whether that be in this series or otherwise!
4.5/5
Tropes:
❄️ Small Town Romance
❄️ Holiday Season
❄️ Fake Dating (but only one of them knows)
🌶️ Spice: 2/5
💭 Thoughts:
An adorable, well-rounded holiday novel full of romance tropes we know and love 🎄
Following “The Holiday Match”, “The Boyfriend Countdown” can be read as a standalone but I would highly recommend reading the aforementioned novel to fully appreciate each character’s development and ensure a firm grasp on the storyline.
Told from Margo’s point of view, I thoroughly enjoyed the shift in perspective. After familiarizing myself with Richard’s internal monologue, it was a great change of pace to experience and learn about Margo’s. Much like Richard, she underwent tremendous character development, from which you can’t help but root for her to get out of her own way.
I didn’t love the third act miscommunication/breakup trope, but that’s purely a personal preference and it did not take away from the story in any way.
With plenty of humour, witty banter, and a dash of spice, The Boyfriend Countdown is the perfect holiday read. I look forward to Samuels’ next instalment, whether that be in this series or otherwise!
November 7, 2023
This book is the perfect blend of cute and cozy. I felt like I was in the middle of a hallmark movie and I love everything about that vibe! The flirting is adorable!!! I can literally feel everything Margo is experiencing as she talks and texts Richard. The emotions she’s going through are so spot on, especially when it comes to newly dating; nothing I love more than a relatable FMC!
The storyline is simple and engaging and I devoured each chapter. I grinned like a Cheshire Cat throughout the majority of this book and I love feeling like I was experiencing a first date all over again! I was actually giddy 🙈
I adore the way Tori Samuels writes her characters in this book! Margo’s growth is phenomenal, her friends and her family are the best support system and so wholesome, the ex is an arrogant pain that caused an unlimited amount of eye rolling, and Richard is perfection!
Overall I really enjoyed this read! It is the perfect book leading up to the holidays full of warmth, love, personal growth, and the intricacies of relationships. Tori Samuels writing is so descriptive and detailed, I couldn’t put this book down! Thank you so much for allowing me to read a copy of The Boyfriend Countdown!
The storyline is simple and engaging and I devoured each chapter. I grinned like a Cheshire Cat throughout the majority of this book and I love feeling like I was experiencing a first date all over again! I was actually giddy 🙈
I adore the way Tori Samuels writes her characters in this book! Margo’s growth is phenomenal, her friends and her family are the best support system and so wholesome, the ex is an arrogant pain that caused an unlimited amount of eye rolling, and Richard is perfection!
Overall I really enjoyed this read! It is the perfect book leading up to the holidays full of warmth, love, personal growth, and the intricacies of relationships. Tori Samuels writing is so descriptive and detailed, I couldn’t put this book down! Thank you so much for allowing me to read a copy of The Boyfriend Countdown!
October 23, 2023
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Spice: grazing 4🔥
Tropes: Small (Canadian) Town Romance, Holiday Romance, BIPOC FMC, blind dating
Thank you for the ARC!
Christmas is my favourite holiday. Hands. Down. The Boyfriend Countdown was such an amazing Christmas read, and I WILL be rereading it during the holiday season, you got that right!
The flirty sarcasm was EVERYTHING! I’m such a sarcastic flirt myself so I LOVE when I see that rep in characters and their relationships.
Margo was so REAL! From her past trauma and how that's manifested into who she is presently, to her inner dialogue, to her quips, and her friendship journey it was all just so real. You don't always get that in a gushy holiday romance but Tori Samuels struck such an amazing balance.
Along those lines of being real though, my issue was the self-destruction/miscommunication trope. But that’s on me and it’s one of my majorly disliked tropes, still I felt like it didn’t hinder my enjoyment as much as that trope has before.
I didn't read The Holiday Match (and you don't have to either) but I am definitely going back to it!
Also major shoutout to Canada (and for Vaughan being mentioned specifically)!
Spice: grazing 4🔥
Tropes: Small (Canadian) Town Romance, Holiday Romance, BIPOC FMC, blind dating
Thank you for the ARC!
Christmas is my favourite holiday. Hands. Down. The Boyfriend Countdown was such an amazing Christmas read, and I WILL be rereading it during the holiday season, you got that right!
The flirty sarcasm was EVERYTHING! I’m such a sarcastic flirt myself so I LOVE when I see that rep in characters and their relationships.
Margo was so REAL! From her past trauma and how that's manifested into who she is presently, to her inner dialogue, to her quips, and her friendship journey it was all just so real. You don't always get that in a gushy holiday romance but Tori Samuels struck such an amazing balance.
Along those lines of being real though, my issue was the self-destruction/miscommunication trope. But that’s on me and it’s one of my majorly disliked tropes, still I felt like it didn’t hinder my enjoyment as much as that trope has before.
I didn't read The Holiday Match (and you don't have to either) but I am definitely going back to it!
Also major shoutout to Canada (and for Vaughan being mentioned specifically)!
March 7, 2025
This charming read based in Canada is about Margo Diaz, a Mexican Finance Director who signs up for an online blind date with carpenter, Richard Vixen. Unbeknownst to them both, they have actually met briefly before and on their blind date there was an instant attraction and connection between them.
Margo needs a date to her company's New Year's Gala and she lies about having a boyfriend to her work colleagues. She is hoping to persuade Richard to attend with her. Richard agrees and actually helps with some of the gala's decor.
The main characters were endearing and likeable. Margo came across as being especially insecure after her failed relationship with coworker, Tristan who also happens to be her work competitor up for the same promotion. Richard is such a gentleman and he really took notice of her wants and needs.
Their dialogue was amusing and snarky and this book was well written and it kept my interest. It is not a clean book as there is swearing and sexual scenes. I did feel that this book needed an epilogue.
I really enjoyed the romance in this book and rate it 4.5*.
Margo needs a date to her company's New Year's Gala and she lies about having a boyfriend to her work colleagues. She is hoping to persuade Richard to attend with her. Richard agrees and actually helps with some of the gala's decor.
The main characters were endearing and likeable. Margo came across as being especially insecure after her failed relationship with coworker, Tristan who also happens to be her work competitor up for the same promotion. Richard is such a gentleman and he really took notice of her wants and needs.
Their dialogue was amusing and snarky and this book was well written and it kept my interest. It is not a clean book as there is swearing and sexual scenes. I did feel that this book needed an epilogue.
I really enjoyed the romance in this book and rate it 4.5*.
October 9, 2023
This book was so good, I read it one day. I liked that this book was set in a realistic world and deals with challenges people may actually deal with in life.
I enjoyed how this book told Margo's side from where the first book left off. So, I would recommend reading the first one just to fully understand everything, but it can be read as a standalone.
I loved how Margo grew throughout the story. She was so changed by the last relationship without even knowing how it affected her. With Richard in the picture, he helped her see what she truly needed in life. I enjoyed reading about her past when she was younger and learning more about the type of person she is. It was great being able to see how the relationship worked and see how Richard continued to change after the first book.
I would recommend this book if you're looking for a romcom with some spice.
I was given this ARC for my honest review.
I enjoyed how this book told Margo's side from where the first book left off. So, I would recommend reading the first one just to fully understand everything, but it can be read as a standalone.
I loved how Margo grew throughout the story. She was so changed by the last relationship without even knowing how it affected her. With Richard in the picture, he helped her see what she truly needed in life. I enjoyed reading about her past when she was younger and learning more about the type of person she is. It was great being able to see how the relationship worked and see how Richard continued to change after the first book.
I would recommend this book if you're looking for a romcom with some spice.
I was given this ARC for my honest review.
November 7, 2023
I was given an ARC copy for an honest review and let me say that I DID NOT expect to like this story as much as I did! Tori Samuels, where have you been all my life?? Being a fellow Ontarian, I appreciated all the tidbits of Canadian information - like Tim’s, Apple fritters (my personal favourite), and songs like 11:11 by the Arkells (who I have seen in concert too many times to count. Also, thank you Tori for normalizing the garbage Canadian housing situation right now by having the FMC living with her parents and the MMC living in a basement apartment.
This was such a fun and easy read. I am not typically into cinnamon-bun MMCs but DANG RICHARD! Reminded me how hot a kind and curly-haired Canadian man can be … he is so kind and thoughtful, but he also has a spicy side to him. I also loved the FMC Margo being from an immigrant family from Mexico and pieces of their culture being a part of the story.
Though this was technically a contemporary holiday story, it felt a lot more than that to me. Margo had a great deal of character development in this story, and I can’t wait to read Richard’s POV in the Holiday Match. Richard and Margo’s story is sweet, sexy and complex - would definitely recommend that you pick their stories up this holiday season.
This was such a fun and easy read. I am not typically into cinnamon-bun MMCs but DANG RICHARD! Reminded me how hot a kind and curly-haired Canadian man can be … he is so kind and thoughtful, but he also has a spicy side to him. I also loved the FMC Margo being from an immigrant family from Mexico and pieces of their culture being a part of the story.
Though this was technically a contemporary holiday story, it felt a lot more than that to me. Margo had a great deal of character development in this story, and I can’t wait to read Richard’s POV in the Holiday Match. Richard and Margo’s story is sweet, sexy and complex - would definitely recommend that you pick their stories up this holiday season.
July 29, 2025
Tori Samuels delivers a festive, feel-good rom-com with The Boyfriend Countdown. Margo Diaz is a driven, career-focused woman who finds herself in a bind when her ex announces his engagement. Cue a fake boyfriend scheme involving a 12-day blind dating service—and a charming stranger named Richard.
This book is a delightful mix of holiday sparkle and emotional growth. Margo is a relatable heroine, and her chemistry with Richard is sweet and slow-burning. The countdown format keeps the pacing lively, and the holiday setting adds a cozy charm.
That said, the secondary characters could’ve been developed further. But if you're in the mood for a comforting, festive romance with heart and humor, this one’s a solid pick.
Would recommend to: Fans of fake dating, Christmas romances, and strong female leads with a soft side.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is a delightful mix of holiday sparkle and emotional growth. Margo is a relatable heroine, and her chemistry with Richard is sweet and slow-burning. The countdown format keeps the pacing lively, and the holiday setting adds a cozy charm.
That said, the secondary characters could’ve been developed further. But if you're in the mood for a comforting, festive romance with heart and humor, this one’s a solid pick.
Would recommend to: Fans of fake dating, Christmas romances, and strong female leads with a soft side.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2023
This is a perfect winter romance where you get sizzling chemistry between the two main characters, charming settings and also complex dance of feelings as the MC tries to navigate through her relationship with work, past broken love life and also new unexpected feelings towards someone she didn’t expect to like.
This book can be read as a standalone, but for the ultimate experience I definitely recommend also reading the first book in the Holi-Fate series where we get to see Richards story as well and how he got to where he was in the Boyfriend Countdown.
The plot keeps you guessing as Margo’s lies become more palpable, and the tension can definitely be felt as we get an open door to her thoughts and feelings.
If you’re looking for a cozy, winter read this book definitely fits the bill!
This book can be read as a standalone, but for the ultimate experience I definitely recommend also reading the first book in the Holi-Fate series where we get to see Richards story as well and how he got to where he was in the Boyfriend Countdown.
The plot keeps you guessing as Margo’s lies become more palpable, and the tension can definitely be felt as we get an open door to her thoughts and feelings.
If you’re looking for a cozy, winter read this book definitely fits the bill!
December 27, 2024
This insta-love romance takes place over the space of time between Christmas and New Year's. Margo, having been burned by her coworker/ex-boyfriend, joins a dating app called Secret Santa to try to wrangle a date for the holiday office party after discovering that the ex is bringing his new fiancée to the shindig. She meets the delightful Richard and, while leery, agrees to a series of dates that includes the office party. And we're off to the races!
This is a fast and witty read with heat and humor; Margo, while gun-shy, is obviously taken with Richard (who is VERY obviously taken with her). Watching them fall in love over the space of a week brought a smile to my heart that added to my holiday cheer in the best possible way!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a fast and witty read with heat and humor; Margo, while gun-shy, is obviously taken with Richard (who is VERY obviously taken with her). Watching them fall in love over the space of a week brought a smile to my heart that added to my holiday cheer in the best possible way!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2025
This was the cutest romance novel! I enjoyed the journey the mfc Margo takes in her self discovery, taking her power back and allowing herself to live and be loved.
The mmc Richard is swoon worthy with his thoughtfulness, kindness, and overall nice guy who’s been screwed but trying to find love again personality.
The story started out a little slow for me but she gave the back story on Margo which allows you to see the bigger picture of who she is and why she makes some of those choices she does. Richard’s back story doesn’t happen until later in the book so I was skeptical of his behavior in the middle of the book. I kept waiting for him to screw her over but she does that all on her own.
In the end love prevails and Margo and Richard find solace in each other. It’s a great love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The mmc Richard is swoon worthy with his thoughtfulness, kindness, and overall nice guy who’s been screwed but trying to find love again personality.
The story started out a little slow for me but she gave the back story on Margo which allows you to see the bigger picture of who she is and why she makes some of those choices she does. Richard’s back story doesn’t happen until later in the book so I was skeptical of his behavior in the middle of the book. I kept waiting for him to screw her over but she does that all on her own.
In the end love prevails and Margo and Richard find solace in each other. It’s a great love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2025
Before I give my opinion of the actual book I feel like I should mention this one thing.... while you certainly don't have to, I feel like if you read The Holiday Match first that it will make this book more enjoyable. That being said, I really enjoyed this book. The characters are wonderful. Richard is so much fun that you can't help but like him. Margo is so relatable with all her insecurities. After swearing off men and building (almost) impenetrable walls around her heart she is just looking for a fake date. She doesn't want feelings or a future, just someone to pretend with. Little did she know that neither of them will be pretending at the end of this. This was a really fun read. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 22, 2023
So grateful to have read this as an ARC, thank you! 🫶🏻
I connected with the RomCom feel of this book. The beginning was a little bit slow, but it picked up after a few chapters and I was able to finish the read in an evening.
I enjoyed the slow burn build up to the spicy scenes and became invested in their love story.
I enjoyed Margo’s personal growth throughout the novel; however, the growth also made the break up scene all the more frustrating. Of course she was insecure because of her last relationship - but it was clearly a misunderstanding that sent her spiralling and caused immature drama. I was slightly annoyed and was expecting him to show up at the New Years Party at this point, because of coooourse he would. I enjoyed the romantic moments - like his involvement in getting the dresser, the Hollywood sign made even though they had broken up.
It was also notable how her other relationships improved - her family to return to Mexico to visit family, she was a civil with her ex by the end.
If you enjoy romantic stories with a little spice - this is for you!
I connected with the RomCom feel of this book. The beginning was a little bit slow, but it picked up after a few chapters and I was able to finish the read in an evening.
I enjoyed the slow burn build up to the spicy scenes and became invested in their love story.
I enjoyed Margo’s personal growth throughout the novel; however, the growth also made the break up scene all the more frustrating. Of course she was insecure because of her last relationship - but it was clearly a misunderstanding that sent her spiralling and caused immature drama. I was slightly annoyed and was expecting him to show up at the New Years Party at this point, because of coooourse he would. I enjoyed the romantic moments - like his involvement in getting the dresser, the Hollywood sign made even though they had broken up.
It was also notable how her other relationships improved - her family to return to Mexico to visit family, she was a civil with her ex by the end.
If you enjoy romantic stories with a little spice - this is for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2023
Thank you Tori for giving me the opportunity to read your book, i absolutely loved every second of it. I love how the story was set in a real location and how you can truly connect with the characters in the story.
I love reading about Margo’s characters development, she was affected by a past relationship and ended with trust issues and a wall around her heart. Enter Richard; sweet, caring and hot as hell, who shows her exactly how she should be treated and what she deserves in life.
This book was great please go read it. You’ll love it!
This book releases on November 7th, go preorder right now.
Tropes: Fake Dating (but only one of them knows) 🤫
Small Town Romance 📍
New Year's Kiss 💋
Healing from Exes ❤️🩹
Spice 🌶️
4stars
1🌶️
I love reading about Margo’s characters development, she was affected by a past relationship and ended with trust issues and a wall around her heart. Enter Richard; sweet, caring and hot as hell, who shows her exactly how she should be treated and what she deserves in life.
This book was great please go read it. You’ll love it!
This book releases on November 7th, go preorder right now.
Tropes: Fake Dating (but only one of them knows) 🤫
Small Town Romance 📍
New Year's Kiss 💋
Healing from Exes ❤️🩹
Spice 🌶️
4stars
1🌶️
November 4, 2023
Richard may be the newest addition of book boyfriends to the on-going list. This story, told only from Margo’s POV, had it all - the setting of the December holidays, rom-com feels, spice.
The boyfriend countdown begins when Margo’s ex-boyfriend, also her work colleague, announces he’s bringing his new fiancée to the New Year’s party. Not to be pitied, Margo quickly lies that she has a boyfriend and is determined to find a man to fit that role.
Richard is sweet, caring, and supportive - and then, when they are stranded in a snowstorm and have a can of paint…I need a fan because it got warm 🪭
I loved Margo as a FMC though I wished we had Richard’s POV to see his side of the story. Regardless, this story was a cute rom-com with a touch of holiday feels!
The boyfriend countdown begins when Margo’s ex-boyfriend, also her work colleague, announces he’s bringing his new fiancée to the New Year’s party. Not to be pitied, Margo quickly lies that she has a boyfriend and is determined to find a man to fit that role.
Richard is sweet, caring, and supportive - and then, when they are stranded in a snowstorm and have a can of paint…I need a fan because it got warm 🪭
I loved Margo as a FMC though I wished we had Richard’s POV to see his side of the story. Regardless, this story was a cute rom-com with a touch of holiday feels!
November 4, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
⭐⭐⭐⭐ for The Boyfriend Countdown by Tori Samuels
This book started off a bit slow, but once it got going, I was fully invested in Margo and Richard's fake (but not really) relationship. The story starts at Christmas but it's more of a New Year's story, which I loved, and the slow burn was slow but the spice was nice when it finally hit. Richard is a total cinammon roll MMC, I absolutely loved him, he was a total sweetheart of a man. The dreaded miscommunication trope makes an appearance and I groaned out loud but the resolve made it worth it. This is the second in a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thank you to @torisamuels.writes for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ for The Boyfriend Countdown by Tori Samuels
This book started off a bit slow, but once it got going, I was fully invested in Margo and Richard's fake (but not really) relationship. The story starts at Christmas but it's more of a New Year's story, which I loved, and the slow burn was slow but the spice was nice when it finally hit. Richard is a total cinammon roll MMC, I absolutely loved him, he was a total sweetheart of a man. The dreaded miscommunication trope makes an appearance and I groaned out loud but the resolve made it worth it. This is the second in a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thank you to @torisamuels.writes for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
December 17, 2024
A Sweet and Whimsical Holiday Romance
This is a delightful and fun holiday romance that captures the spirit of the season. The characters are endearing and relatable, particularly Richard with his charming flirtatiousness and Margo with her endearing insecurities.
The author skillfully weaves in heartwarming moments of friendship, family, and cultural nuances. The quick-paced plot, set over a single week, keeps readers engaged as Richard and Margo navigate their whirlwind romance.
This cozy and enjoyable read is perfect for curling up with a cup of hot cocoa and escaping into a world of love and laughter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a delightful and fun holiday romance that captures the spirit of the season. The characters are endearing and relatable, particularly Richard with his charming flirtatiousness and Margo with her endearing insecurities.
The author skillfully weaves in heartwarming moments of friendship, family, and cultural nuances. The quick-paced plot, set over a single week, keeps readers engaged as Richard and Margo navigate their whirlwind romance.
This cozy and enjoyable read is perfect for curling up with a cup of hot cocoa and escaping into a world of love and laughter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2025
3.5
It’s been a minute since a holiday romance genuinely surprised me. And in a good way. Margo is fighting the good fight against the patriarchy in her company, including her jerk of an ex. And then comes along Richard in such a weird series of events. But he actually shows up for her, does things for her when she’s the one who takes care of everyone. Plus, they work so well together. The spicy scenes blindsided me slightly, but I’m not sure why. I think maybe just the tone and style of writing. But I’m not mad at it. There’s not a whole lot, but that works for this. I think there’s a good representation of Margo’s culture, but I would’ve liked more. Overall, I had a great time reading The Boyfriend Countdown.
It’s been a minute since a holiday romance genuinely surprised me. And in a good way. Margo is fighting the good fight against the patriarchy in her company, including her jerk of an ex. And then comes along Richard in such a weird series of events. But he actually shows up for her, does things for her when she’s the one who takes care of everyone. Plus, they work so well together. The spicy scenes blindsided me slightly, but I’m not sure why. I think maybe just the tone and style of writing. But I’m not mad at it. There’s not a whole lot, but that works for this. I think there’s a good representation of Margo’s culture, but I would’ve liked more. Overall, I had a great time reading The Boyfriend Countdown.
January 1, 2026
Having read the prequel (The Holiday Match), this book was a delight as it picked up where the other one had left off. Over the course of this holiday based romance we get the other side of the story, and Margo's anxiousness and determination to have it all in life - even when she has to work extra hard to prove herself- is very well done.
The way Margo and Richard build their romance while on a deadline, and she has to wage an internal battle of whether this could be for real or not, makes this book thoroughly engaging from start to finish.
I hope the author continues to tell different stories across future books because there are some very well-rounded supporting characters I'd love to see more of.
The way Margo and Richard build their romance while on a deadline, and she has to wage an internal battle of whether this could be for real or not, makes this book thoroughly engaging from start to finish.
I hope the author continues to tell different stories across future books because there are some very well-rounded supporting characters I'd love to see more of.
October 16, 2023
⭐️⭐️ARC REVIEW ⭐️⭐️
Thank you torifor allowing me to read this ARC It was a great ride
This is book 2 in the Holi-fate series and if you haven't read book 1 The Holiday Match go read it first as it really sets the stage and fully developed characters.
I love that this book is like a continuation and more set up for New Years. This book is told in Margo's POV giving us the chance to really learn who she is and learn about her past and to also see the way Margo and Richard's relationship continues to grow.
I can't wait to see what's next in this series as every character feel like they have a great story to tell
Thank you torifor allowing me to read this ARC It was a great ride
This is book 2 in the Holi-fate series and if you haven't read book 1 The Holiday Match go read it first as it really sets the stage and fully developed characters.
I love that this book is like a continuation and more set up for New Years. This book is told in Margo's POV giving us the chance to really learn who she is and learn about her past and to also see the way Margo and Richard's relationship continues to grow.
I can't wait to see what's next in this series as every character feel like they have a great story to tell
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