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Fake Around & Find Out
The more they fake around, the more they're going to find out.
Gemma Holliday wants closure. Once she confesses her regrets to her ex, she’ll get back to designing book covers and enjoying springtime with an open heart. But, at his house, Gemma’s stunned to discover she’s been replaced.
Enter Logan Banks. Her ex’s insanely good-looking new neighbor…and Gemma’s high school crush. The book cover model is back in town just in time for his sister’s wedding. If only she wasn’t pressuring him to find a date...
When Gemma kisses Logan to make her ex jealous, it leads to a series of blindsiding book cover photos of his oil-slicked chest in her inbox, embarrassing conference room sparks during his surprise appearance at her office, and an Oh-inspiring bar rescue. Soon, they forge an arrangement that benefits them both—she’ll be his wedding date and he’ll be her fake boyfriend. But will their fiery chemistry lead to a chance at something real?
Gemma Holliday wants closure. Once she confesses her regrets to her ex, she’ll get back to designing book covers and enjoying springtime with an open heart. But, at his house, Gemma’s stunned to discover she’s been replaced.
Enter Logan Banks. Her ex’s insanely good-looking new neighbor…and Gemma’s high school crush. The book cover model is back in town just in time for his sister’s wedding. If only she wasn’t pressuring him to find a date...
When Gemma kisses Logan to make her ex jealous, it leads to a series of blindsiding book cover photos of his oil-slicked chest in her inbox, embarrassing conference room sparks during his surprise appearance at her office, and an Oh-inspiring bar rescue. Soon, they forge an arrangement that benefits them both—she’ll be his wedding date and he’ll be her fake boyfriend. But will their fiery chemistry lead to a chance at something real?
155 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2023
32 people are currently reading
165 people want to read
About the author
Mia Heintzelman
28 books373 followersThe Wedding Crush releases on June 11th everywhere books are sold!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 2, 2025
Fake Around & Find Out is a super cute novella with 2 characters that truly deserve each other.
Gemma has recently been broken up with and she doesn't really understand why. She decides to confront the ex, but awkward and hilarity ensue.
For a novella size story, I felt satisfied and complete. Gemma wants to confront an ex, but who happens to be his neighbor but someone she's ran into a time or two and has great chemistry with. Sounds like a match made in heaven, right? Except there seems to be a little more to the story.
Logan and Gemma have a little bit of history going all the way back to high school where Logan had a secret crush on Gemma, but he moved across an ocean before he had the chance to even declare his feelings. Now, his sister is getting married and wants him to invite Gemma to her wedding as his plus one because she knew about his crush. Wouldn't that be awkward? Fortunately, Gemma wants to make her ex jealous and Logan needs a date to his sister's wedding. Let the fake dating commence!
Fake Dating is one of my favorite tropes and I love that Heintzelman combined that with a secret crush that is basically a second chance for the characters to redeem themselves. Logan and Gemma were both so cute and they obviously had physical and intellectual chemistry. Of course, I would've loved more of them, but I liked what we got and I loved them as standalone characters. They communicated well and they were a delight to read about. I never felt rushed with the pacing and just overall enjoyed the sweet and fun story. The added bonus of the Janet Jackson songs as chapter titles was simply the best. I noticed it right off and it made the story that much better.
Can't wait to read more from Mia Heintzelman as this was only my first book of hers.
Gemma has recently been broken up with and she doesn't really understand why. She decides to confront the ex, but awkward and hilarity ensue.
For a novella size story, I felt satisfied and complete. Gemma wants to confront an ex, but who happens to be his neighbor but someone she's ran into a time or two and has great chemistry with. Sounds like a match made in heaven, right? Except there seems to be a little more to the story.
Logan and Gemma have a little bit of history going all the way back to high school where Logan had a secret crush on Gemma, but he moved across an ocean before he had the chance to even declare his feelings. Now, his sister is getting married and wants him to invite Gemma to her wedding as his plus one because she knew about his crush. Wouldn't that be awkward? Fortunately, Gemma wants to make her ex jealous and Logan needs a date to his sister's wedding. Let the fake dating commence!
Fake Dating is one of my favorite tropes and I love that Heintzelman combined that with a secret crush that is basically a second chance for the characters to redeem themselves. Logan and Gemma were both so cute and they obviously had physical and intellectual chemistry. Of course, I would've loved more of them, but I liked what we got and I loved them as standalone characters. They communicated well and they were a delight to read about. I never felt rushed with the pacing and just overall enjoyed the sweet and fun story. The added bonus of the Janet Jackson songs as chapter titles was simply the best. I noticed it right off and it made the story that much better.
Can't wait to read more from Mia Heintzelman as this was only my first book of hers.
September 4, 2023
So I initially thought Gemma was a bit delusional but give her a chance. She's going through it and her attempt at a last stitch effort to save her relationship might have made sense, heavy on the might. Thankfully her high school crush let her save face.
I just kept thinking oh sweet baby, Jesus Gemma, please don't do this you're going to get hurt. Insert fake dating. No one ever listens 🤭
Anywhoodle Gemma and Logan fake date and they actually communicate. As a side note I like Logan as a MMC. His internal dialogue was interesting because it didn't always match his decisions. It made me think that sometimes it's easier to take the path of less resistance rather than be vulnerable.
The agreement works until it doesn't because they both want more and are kinda scared. They open to the possibility and everyone gets their just dessert.
One thing I felt was that the book ended what felt abruptly. I think maybe one or two more chapters or an epilogue would have had an even more satisfying ending. But I was happy for the growth both characters had on page.
I received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
CN: divorce, stroke, caregiver stress and fatigue, ex moves on very quickly after a breakup, dating anxiety
I just kept thinking oh sweet baby, Jesus Gemma, please don't do this you're going to get hurt. Insert fake dating. No one ever listens 🤭
Anywhoodle Gemma and Logan fake date and they actually communicate. As a side note I like Logan as a MMC. His internal dialogue was interesting because it didn't always match his decisions. It made me think that sometimes it's easier to take the path of less resistance rather than be vulnerable.
The agreement works until it doesn't because they both want more and are kinda scared. They open to the possibility and everyone gets their just dessert.
One thing I felt was that the book ended what felt abruptly. I think maybe one or two more chapters or an epilogue would have had an even more satisfying ending. But I was happy for the growth both characters had on page.
I received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
CN: divorce, stroke, caregiver stress and fatigue, ex moves on very quickly after a breakup, dating anxiety
September 8, 2023
Possible spoiler **
“Put on one of your little happy sundresses, go outside, twirl in the rain, smell the violets. I don’t care…get high on the smell of one of your favorite books.”
Fake Around & Find out - Mia Heintzelman 💋
Gemma and Logan both need each other for a favor : she’s trying to make her ex jealous and he needs a date to his sister’s wedding so his families off of his back about his love life. Can both of them hold up their end of the bargain and count on each other to show up?
Fake dating and second chance are some of my favorite tropes, especially when they inclawkward first meet scenes. This story was so cozy in the sense that both characters felt misunderstood just wanted that one person who saw them. Be around the very person whose mere existence brought warmth and comfort.This is my book! The Janet Jackson songs as chapter titles were the sweetest homage .🖤
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“Put on one of your little happy sundresses, go outside, twirl in the rain, smell the violets. I don’t care…get high on the smell of one of your favorite books.”
Fake Around & Find out - Mia Heintzelman 💋
Gemma and Logan both need each other for a favor : she’s trying to make her ex jealous and he needs a date to his sister’s wedding so his families off of his back about his love life. Can both of them hold up their end of the bargain and count on each other to show up?
Fake dating and second chance are some of my favorite tropes, especially when they inclawkward first meet scenes. This story was so cozy in the sense that both characters felt misunderstood just wanted that one person who saw them. Be around the very person whose mere existence brought warmth and comfort.This is my book! The Janet Jackson songs as chapter titles were the sweetest homage .🖤
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 26, 2025
Black Romance Book Fest 2025 Reading Challenge 45/130
July 30, 2025
2.75 ⭐️
🎧 Listened to the audiobook on Everand.
Short, sweet and fun. Perfect as a palate cleanser.
The plot was actually really good for such a short read but I was continuously irritated by the FMC. I was actually sighing and rolling my eyes at times. I can’t quite remember if it mentioned how old Gemma is but she was acting incredibly immature.
I really liked Logan banks as a character but the narrator wasn’t that great (in my opinion) in putting across his humour.
I enjoyed his chapters the most because I could at least tolerate him 🫣.
The story moves very fast which is expected with a short novella but the ending was wrapped up a little too abruptly.
Overall, there were parts I enjoyed and Parts I didn’t.
Tropes -
👩❤️👨 Childhood Crush
🤞Second Chance Romance
👩❤️💋👨 Fake Dating
🌶️ Spice
👩💻 Book Cover Designer
📸 Book Cover Model
🎧 Listened to the audiobook on Everand.
Short, sweet and fun. Perfect as a palate cleanser.
The plot was actually really good for such a short read but I was continuously irritated by the FMC. I was actually sighing and rolling my eyes at times. I can’t quite remember if it mentioned how old Gemma is but she was acting incredibly immature.
I really liked Logan banks as a character but the narrator wasn’t that great (in my opinion) in putting across his humour.
I enjoyed his chapters the most because I could at least tolerate him 🫣.
The story moves very fast which is expected with a short novella but the ending was wrapped up a little too abruptly.
Overall, there were parts I enjoyed and Parts I didn’t.
Tropes -
👩❤️👨 Childhood Crush
🤞Second Chance Romance
👩❤️💋👨 Fake Dating
🌶️ Spice
👩💻 Book Cover Designer
📸 Book Cover Model
September 2, 2023
Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews: “Fake Around and Find Out” by Mia Heintzelman
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
Cover designer Gemma Holiday wants to get back at her ex boyfriend for replacing her after they’ve been in a relationship together for six months! Cover model Logan Banks wants his family to get off his back about when he’ll settle down and get married. When Gemma and Logan cross paths again after a chemistry filled one-night stand years prior, the two decide to be in a fake relationship to help each other out. Gemma will get to make her ex jealous and Logan will get to have a temporary date to his sister’s wedding! Will all go to plan or will the duo end up catching feelings for each other? They’re just going to have to fake around and find out!
From the author of the “Love and Games” series, Mia Heintzelman has done it again in this new standalone installment in the “Terms and Conditions” series! This romantic comedy of a short story has got it all; will-they-won’t-they chemistry, wholesome, comedic family meddling, and a sweet, petty revenge plot! Gemma and Logan also made for a unique coupling dynamic as they will challenge you as the readers to question and reflect on what it means to take chances in life, to seize moments in life instead of contemplating years later what could have been. If you’re looking for a feel good, fast-pace read that makes you believe in manifesting and seizing your dreams, then don’t miss this book when it hits online shelves Sep. 5th, 2023!
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tropes to Expect: Friends-to-Lovers, Friends-with-Benefits, Wedding Narrative, Fake Dating, High School Crushes, Getting Back At The Ex, and Second Chance!
- Trigger Warnings: Mentions of Divorce and Brief Mention Of Stroke
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
Cover designer Gemma Holiday wants to get back at her ex boyfriend for replacing her after they’ve been in a relationship together for six months! Cover model Logan Banks wants his family to get off his back about when he’ll settle down and get married. When Gemma and Logan cross paths again after a chemistry filled one-night stand years prior, the two decide to be in a fake relationship to help each other out. Gemma will get to make her ex jealous and Logan will get to have a temporary date to his sister’s wedding! Will all go to plan or will the duo end up catching feelings for each other? They’re just going to have to fake around and find out!
From the author of the “Love and Games” series, Mia Heintzelman has done it again in this new standalone installment in the “Terms and Conditions” series! This romantic comedy of a short story has got it all; will-they-won’t-they chemistry, wholesome, comedic family meddling, and a sweet, petty revenge plot! Gemma and Logan also made for a unique coupling dynamic as they will challenge you as the readers to question and reflect on what it means to take chances in life, to seize moments in life instead of contemplating years later what could have been. If you’re looking for a feel good, fast-pace read that makes you believe in manifesting and seizing your dreams, then don’t miss this book when it hits online shelves Sep. 5th, 2023!
Spice Meter: 4/5🌶🌶🌶🌶
Rating: 5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tropes to Expect: Friends-to-Lovers, Friends-with-Benefits, Wedding Narrative, Fake Dating, High School Crushes, Getting Back At The Ex, and Second Chance!
- Trigger Warnings: Mentions of Divorce and Brief Mention Of Stroke
May 9, 2025
This was a cute read that found ME. I was looking on Everand for an audiobook and went with it. I will admit though. I’d say to just read it. One of the narrators sounded JUST like Siri. So it made it hard at times to keep listening lol but I kept it at 5 stars because it was still a really good read.
You have two high school sweet hearts who now post high school can not stop bumping into one another. And accidentally become FWB on more than ONE occasion.
🤣
Gemma needs to make her ex jealous and Logan is almost disowned by his family for not having a date to his sisters wedding. So they really had to fake around and find out. lol
I really felt for Logan though he was the family fixer and a people pleaser. But, he 100% goes down as a book boyfriend.
Logan and Gemma have to fake a relationship that ends up going in a whole other direction. This was a quick, spicy read about unexpected love.
You have two high school sweet hearts who now post high school can not stop bumping into one another. And accidentally become FWB on more than ONE occasion.
🤣
Gemma needs to make her ex jealous and Logan is almost disowned by his family for not having a date to his sisters wedding. So they really had to fake around and find out. lol
I really felt for Logan though he was the family fixer and a people pleaser. But, he 100% goes down as a book boyfriend.
Logan and Gemma have to fake a relationship that ends up going in a whole other direction. This was a quick, spicy read about unexpected love.
November 20, 2024
This book was so much fun and very entertaining!
Gemma and Logan 🩷
Gemma took me on a rollercoaster ride, 🎢
Gemma who is a magazine cover designer sees that her young tender crush from high school graces her on the front of a magazine cover, it’s Logan and all those hidden feelings come to life again.
Gemma and Logan cross paths, the chemistry ignites and they decide to have a fake relationship, she makes her ex mad and he will take Gemma to his sisters wedding. and this is when the fake dating start.
Now you know you can’t fake date anyone without catching feelings, the intensity and curiosity between these two will become real.
They Faked Around and Found Out 🧨
4.5/5 🌟
🎶 ~ Janet Jackson
“Funny How Time Flies”
“What have You Done For Me Lately”
S/N: Divorce, Caregiver, and Health Issues
The Heels = Higher Ups 😃
Gemma and Logan 🩷
Gemma took me on a rollercoaster ride, 🎢
Gemma who is a magazine cover designer sees that her young tender crush from high school graces her on the front of a magazine cover, it’s Logan and all those hidden feelings come to life again.
Gemma and Logan cross paths, the chemistry ignites and they decide to have a fake relationship, she makes her ex mad and he will take Gemma to his sisters wedding. and this is when the fake dating start.
Now you know you can’t fake date anyone without catching feelings, the intensity and curiosity between these two will become real.
They Faked Around and Found Out 🧨
4.5/5 🌟
🎶 ~ Janet Jackson
“Funny How Time Flies”
“What have You Done For Me Lately”
S/N: Divorce, Caregiver, and Health Issues
The Heels = Higher Ups 😃
January 13, 2025
Gemma needs to tell her ex how she feels about the break up and then she will feel better. She goes to his house and is surprised to find his new fling is already taking her place! As she glances next door, she sees Logan, her ex’s new neighbor, and HER high school crush. The opportunity couldn’t be better to fake that she has now moved on with someone else too; Logan. She pops on over and acts as though they are together, to put on a show for her ex!
After this, things keep getting better and better for her. They stay in touch and sparks fly as they find themselves working together. I love the characters so much. The conversations between Gemma and her friends and coworkers are so fun. I could tell where this was going but the story for us to get there was so cute!
This is an adorable workplace romance and a fairly quick read at 155 pages.
After this, things keep getting better and better for her. They stay in touch and sparks fly as they find themselves working together. I love the characters so much. The conversations between Gemma and her friends and coworkers are so fun. I could tell where this was going but the story for us to get there was so cute!
This is an adorable workplace romance and a fairly quick read at 155 pages.
September 5, 2023
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to the author who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of her book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review.
I absolutely love books from this author and when i read this books blurb i just knew i was going to love it and i wasn’t wrong, it was wonderful.
Both of the main characters were amazing and i warmed to them straight away. There was definitely hot chemistry between them and i was all there for it!!!
The arrangement they both agree to suits them both and i loved finding out how their experiment unfolded and to witness the growth of both characters.
I really do love a fake dating trope and this storyline kept me engrossed right until the very end…..
I absolutely love books from this author and when i read this books blurb i just knew i was going to love it and i wasn’t wrong, it was wonderful.
Both of the main characters were amazing and i warmed to them straight away. There was definitely hot chemistry between them and i was all there for it!!!
The arrangement they both agree to suits them both and i loved finding out how their experiment unfolded and to witness the growth of both characters.
I really do love a fake dating trope and this storyline kept me engrossed right until the very end…..
Read
November 25, 2024It was a short and sweet fake relationship novella. The characters were good and there were some funny bits. The ending was a bit abrupt. I don't regret reading it but I think I was in the mood for something more. I also read it along a prn with a big world and dense plot. The juxtaposition was supposed to give me a little release valve but it ended being too different and thus a bit shallow. If you want something short, sweet, moderately spicy, and with a straightforward plot based on a fake relationship trope as a palate cleanser then I would recommend this.
September 4, 2023
I absolutely adored Gemma and Logan, they had so much chemistry and it was so easy to fall into their fake dating turned love story. Gemma takes you on a ride for sure with her “what if” scenario’s but her mistake in trying to get an ex back lands her the man she had a crush on in high school so in the end, it all paid off. Definitely a fun end of summer read. 4.5 stars but this app doesn’t do half’s 🙄
October 16, 2023
Enjoyed
Despite my annoyance with Delilah and at Logan for placating her (like, I was REALLY annoyed LOL), I overall enjoyed this. It made me laugh, namely the scene in the parking lot, and all the pet names. I do wonder what Gemma was talking to Armando about at the end, but I suppose it didn't matter. *shrug*
Despite my annoyance with Delilah and at Logan for placating her (like, I was REALLY annoyed LOL), I overall enjoyed this. It made me laugh, namely the scene in the parking lot, and all the pet names. I do wonder what Gemma was talking to Armando about at the end, but I suppose it didn't matter. *shrug*
November 24, 2025
Initially I was skeptical about Gemma’s motives & character. However, Gemma pulled an ace card. She’s a hard core Janet Jackson fan 🤩😍‼️Say whatttttttt🤭⁉️Now, 🎤 “When I Think of You” (pandora drop the beat) 🎶 has dual relevance 🤭🤷🏾♀️‼️Meanwhile, “Fake Around & Find Out” was a comical & entertaining second chance at a real romance read😊. …a certified J5 & family lifer 💃🏽🤭🤎‼️
September 11, 2023
What a delightful and fun book! Gemma and Logan are so fun, entertaining and wonderful. Loved their connection, banter and eventual adoration for one another. A quick read that will have you laughing and smiling.
September 11, 2023
Fake dating for the win
If you love the fake dating trope, you need to read this sweet and steamy novella. It's such a fun ride! You'll find yourself inhaling this story in a single sitting because you won't be able to stop reading. ☺️
If you love the fake dating trope, you need to read this sweet and steamy novella. It's such a fun ride! You'll find yourself inhaling this story in a single sitting because you won't be able to stop reading. ☺️
September 28, 2023
Another cute book from Mia. I'm not sure what she puts in these books. But I always want more! Was a surprising release before her October book release of Clued in Christmas, a quick read, and I enjoyed it.
October 21, 2023
The best!
I really enjoyed this book,I was so happy it ended the way it did and I freaking love Logan i was just praying he didn’t get hurt ,now I’m hoping for a sequel so I can be at the wedding…
I really enjoyed this book,I was so happy it ended the way it did and I freaking love Logan i was just praying he didn’t get hurt ,now I’m hoping for a sequel so I can be at the wedding…
November 2, 2024
cute sweet and petite. I love it
I enjoyed this read of two lovers who keep missing the mark until fate has its way. A beautiful story. My only complaint it was too short. But I feel the love and passion of the characters on every page
I enjoyed this read of two lovers who keep missing the mark until fate has its way. A beautiful story. My only complaint it was too short. But I feel the love and passion of the characters on every page
December 9, 2024
While Goodreads doesn't note it, this book is available on audio via duet narration. I listened to it on Everand. Unfortunately, I struggled with the narrators. Additionally, the story left a bit to be desired also. It had a lot of potential, but this isn't a book I'd say is a must read.
August 19, 2025
Gemma and Logan had amazing chemistry, and I loved their fake dating turned real romance. It’s funny, charming, and the perfect end-of-summer read. I was a little annoyed with Delilah (and Logan for putting up with her), but the banter, pet names, and that parking lot scene totally won me over.
October 22, 2024
2.5 stars. This is a novella so it moves very, very fast. I’m a slow burn girls so unfortunately this was not the book for me
December 25, 2024
listened to the audio book
December 27, 2024
Might go back to it
December 31, 2024
Almost way too short to have enough character development, but I haven’t read the other books. It was cute and had some spice. Had a couple laughs, so I enjoyed it overall!
January 18, 2025
The storyline is okay and cute but the narrators were horrible. Narrators can make or break a book in my opinion and these two were just not it.
March 8, 2025
I picked this book because I liked the previous books I read by this author. I would recommend this book if you like the fake dating trope.
August 23, 2025
This was a cute little palette cleanser between the heavier/lengthy reads I’ve been tackling. Easy to read, predictable, light spice. I’d pick up something else by the author again.
September 26, 2025
Short and felt a little rushed. But cute.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews