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Sweater Weather #4
Faking the Fall
When the movie star's spotlight could hurt the ones he loves most…
My agent has this idea—an insanely bad idea—to reboot my Hollywood heartthrob status by having my long-lost love dump me… while I'm proposing to her on national TV.
The theory? Women everywhere will swoon over poor Lincoln James, scrambling to repair his vulnerable, shattered heart.
Trouble is, I don't have any kind of love—long, lost, or otherwise.
To play my fake girlfriend, my agent enlists Hadley Morgan, my secret college crush. The one who dragged me to an audition that launched my career but left her in the dust.
Upping the ante, she offers Hadley a slot on the show she missed out on years ago. When the alternative publicity ploy is for reporters to dig up dirt on my family, I've got no choice but to go along with the ruse.
That's why I'm in Harvest Hollow now—as one half of the dream couple HadLink—at least until Hadley blows up our relationship during a very public proposal.
Our breakup's built into this deal. Too bad I've got real love for this woman.
But if I come clean, I risk Hadley's big break, my family's painful past, and my own rebooted heart …
Faking the Fall is a closed-door fake-dating/celebrity rom-com full of sizzling kisses and crackling chemistry. You'll find plenty of humor and heart in the small town of Harvest Hollow, but no spice.
My agent has this idea—an insanely bad idea—to reboot my Hollywood heartthrob status by having my long-lost love dump me… while I'm proposing to her on national TV.
The theory? Women everywhere will swoon over poor Lincoln James, scrambling to repair his vulnerable, shattered heart.
Trouble is, I don't have any kind of love—long, lost, or otherwise.
To play my fake girlfriend, my agent enlists Hadley Morgan, my secret college crush. The one who dragged me to an audition that launched my career but left her in the dust.
Upping the ante, she offers Hadley a slot on the show she missed out on years ago. When the alternative publicity ploy is for reporters to dig up dirt on my family, I've got no choice but to go along with the ruse.
That's why I'm in Harvest Hollow now—as one half of the dream couple HadLink—at least until Hadley blows up our relationship during a very public proposal.
Our breakup's built into this deal. Too bad I've got real love for this woman.
But if I come clean, I risk Hadley's big break, my family's painful past, and my own rebooted heart …
Faking the Fall is a closed-door fake-dating/celebrity rom-com full of sizzling kisses and crackling chemistry. You'll find plenty of humor and heart in the small town of Harvest Hollow, but no spice.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 21, 2023
704 people are currently reading
5461 people want to read
About the author
Julie Christianson
16 books608 followersJulie Christianson writes sweet romantic comedies—but only when she’s not reading them. Born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles, she loves her hilarious family, her three crazy rescue dogs, and laughing at her own jokes.
Julie dreamed of being an author the first time she held a crayon, and after the library where she worked closed in 2020, she decided to try her hand at penning her own small-town romcoms.
She’s a former high school English teacher and lapsed marathon runner, the mother of two great kids, and the wife of one very funny man. Her goal is to write books that make you laugh out loud, fall in love, and live happily ever after.
To connect with Julie, follow her on instagram (@juliechristiansonauthor), Facebook (@juliechristiansonauthor) or visit her website, juliechristianson.com.!
Julie dreamed of being an author the first time she held a crayon, and after the library where she worked closed in 2020, she decided to try her hand at penning her own small-town romcoms.
She’s a former high school English teacher and lapsed marathon runner, the mother of two great kids, and the wife of one very funny man. Her goal is to write books that make you laugh out loud, fall in love, and live happily ever after.
To connect with Julie, follow her on instagram (@juliechristiansonauthor), Facebook (@juliechristiansonauthor) or visit her website, juliechristianson.com.!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
September 11, 2023
I love this book so muchness!!
IYKYK
#HADLINK is quite possibly the best fake dating couple to grace their presence on literary pages! Julie Christianson never does any wrong in her books and I am here for her and her writing consistency.
Every book is a gem. If you're not reading her books, please let me change your mind! They are AWESOME!!
'I am so not prepared for Lincoln James to be standing on my porch. I'd be less shocked to discover a unicorn out front.'
Second Chance - the BEST TROPE out there!
I love how Julie creates a back story in the first few chapters and that catches the reader quickly up to date and gets right into the tension of the story! Pages will be turning quickly-this is a fast paced book that keeps you wanting more!
I love that Hadley is who she is. I love that James/Link knows her and she knows him and that who they are at their core has never changed. I love them rediscovering their friendship and unannounced previous crushes. I love the healing. I love the small town vibe. I love the side characters. I love the fake dating. I love the real dating.... and that ending: SWOON!
Lastly, I think I'd like to meet The Fud in real life . LOL
Get this book ASAP! Read it for all the fall vibes, feelings and adorable romance! It's a hit!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: ghosting, movie star + hometown girl, fake dating, death of loved ones, health issues, mention of previous betrayal (not with main characters), friendships, small town + fun side characters, minimal innuendo, swoony romance and kisses.
IYKYK
#HADLINK is quite possibly the best fake dating couple to grace their presence on literary pages! Julie Christianson never does any wrong in her books and I am here for her and her writing consistency.
Every book is a gem. If you're not reading her books, please let me change your mind! They are AWESOME!!
'I am so not prepared for Lincoln James to be standing on my porch. I'd be less shocked to discover a unicorn out front.'
Second Chance - the BEST TROPE out there!
I love how Julie creates a back story in the first few chapters and that catches the reader quickly up to date and gets right into the tension of the story! Pages will be turning quickly-this is a fast paced book that keeps you wanting more!
I love that Hadley is who she is. I love that James/Link knows her and she knows him and that who they are at their core has never changed. I love them rediscovering their friendship and unannounced previous crushes. I love the healing. I love the small town vibe. I love the side characters. I love the fake dating. I love the real dating.... and that ending: SWOON!
Lastly, I think I'd like to meet The Fud in real life . LOL
Get this book ASAP! Read it for all the fall vibes, feelings and adorable romance! It's a hit!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: ghosting, movie star + hometown girl, fake dating, death of loved ones, health issues, mention of previous betrayal (not with main characters), friendships, small town + fun side characters, minimal innuendo, swoony romance and kisses.
June 6, 2024
Awww well that was just the cutest, sweetest, second chance/first real chance celebrity fake dating story I’ve read!!
There was so much heart to the story! So much depth and character growth! AND COMMUNICATION!
Hadley & Link (James if you will) were such lovable characters! On their own, and even more together. I loved that they put each other first and really did have a SOLID friendship under their belts so the relationship felt more believable.
I love that James was dealing with controlling everything for the sake of protecting people and how he overcame that!
And Hadley learning to say no to people pleasing, and yes to things she wanted to do!
They were both brave characters to face the different things they needed to face. And the miscommunications between them, and Hadley & her dad, that drastically affected so many years of their lives felt realistic! But I loved their open conversations when it was time!
I LOVED SAM! And Ray! And just this group of characters, and FOR SURE the town of Harvest Hallow! The fall vibes were RICH in this one! 😍 I’m craving something apple!
4.5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
There was so much heart to the story! So much depth and character growth! AND COMMUNICATION!
Hadley & Link (James if you will) were such lovable characters! On their own, and even more together. I loved that they put each other first and really did have a SOLID friendship under their belts so the relationship felt more believable.
I love that James was dealing with controlling everything for the sake of protecting people and how he overcame that!
And Hadley learning to say no to people pleasing, and yes to things she wanted to do!
They were both brave characters to face the different things they needed to face. And the miscommunications between them, and Hadley & her dad, that drastically affected so many years of their lives felt realistic! But I loved their open conversations when it was time!
I LOVED SAM! And Ray! And just this group of characters, and FOR SURE the town of Harvest Hallow! The fall vibes were RICH in this one! 😍 I’m craving something apple!
4.5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
September 22, 2025
Although I found this to be derivative, I really liked it a lot. It’s the first book I’ve read from the author and I loved the writing style. I will definitely read more of her work.
September 21, 2023
Link and Hadley! Ah, I just love them. Friends to more, second chance, celebrity, fake dating done so right. This book has all the feels.
Things I Loved:
-Goober the Gorgeous
-Magnetron and Violet
-“Are my ears bleeding actual blood?”
-Nina
-“AM I FAILING OUT OF COLLEGE?”
-“Either way, if my once-upon-a-time friend wants to get something off his chest, I guess I can let him say his piece. For a minute. Then I’ll kick him to the curb and send him back to LA for breaking my once-upon-a-time friend heart.”
-Daily question
-“Oh no. DID I KILL HIM with my spontaneity and adventure?”
-Sam
-Blender of wildebeests
-Sir Ray 😂 (but for real, love Hads’ dad)
-“Tanya’s perfect for me, but there’s no such thing as a perfect marriage. There are just marriages. And you either decide to stick around forever, or you don’t. That’s it.”
-Gum-gate
-“That’s five potential wins. With only one loss. James Lincoln’s heart.” 💔
-“And I thought you came here for my meatloaf.”
-“You always had me.” ♥️
-Chris. Chris. Chris. Or Flint. 😂
-The dress
-Muchness
-The ending 😍
-THE CUTEST BONUS EPILOGUE
I cried, I squealed, I laughed, I swooned. There was great history, depth, and character growth through this whole story. This is one of these reads that has a lot of heart while still being so fun and sweet.
Another Sweater Weather win! The town of Harvest Hallow has been a blast and the little nods to the other books, characters, and authors is the best!
Trigger warning: the loss of loved ones in the past and dealing with that grief is a theme throughout.
Things I Loved:
-Goober the Gorgeous
-Magnetron and Violet
-“Are my ears bleeding actual blood?”
-Nina
-“AM I FAILING OUT OF COLLEGE?”
-“Either way, if my once-upon-a-time friend wants to get something off his chest, I guess I can let him say his piece. For a minute. Then I’ll kick him to the curb and send him back to LA for breaking my once-upon-a-time friend heart.”
-Daily question
-“Oh no. DID I KILL HIM with my spontaneity and adventure?”
-Sam
-Blender of wildebeests
-Sir Ray 😂 (but for real, love Hads’ dad)
-“Tanya’s perfect for me, but there’s no such thing as a perfect marriage. There are just marriages. And you either decide to stick around forever, or you don’t. That’s it.”
-Gum-gate
-“That’s five potential wins. With only one loss. James Lincoln’s heart.” 💔
-“And I thought you came here for my meatloaf.”
-“You always had me.” ♥️
-Chris. Chris. Chris. Or Flint. 😂
-The dress
-Muchness
-The ending 😍
-THE CUTEST BONUS EPILOGUE
I cried, I squealed, I laughed, I swooned. There was great history, depth, and character growth through this whole story. This is one of these reads that has a lot of heart while still being so fun and sweet.
Another Sweater Weather win! The town of Harvest Hallow has been a blast and the little nods to the other books, characters, and authors is the best!
Trigger warning: the loss of loved ones in the past and dealing with that grief is a theme throughout.
September 19, 2023
Absolutely loved this celebrity/hometown girl sweet romance by Julie Christianson!
James was Hadley’s best friend from college 5 years ago. When he tags along with her to a music audition he gets noticed by an agent that wants him to fly out to California. Now he is Lincoln James, famous superhero movie star. After a bad run in with a photographer he needs to fix his image. So he shows up on Hadley’s doorstep asking her to be his fake girlfriend with the end goal of her breaking his heart on camera.
I loved these two! Hadley and Link are like a breath of fresh air and their story gave me all the feels. Hadley is such a real and relatable heroine. I love how she gave James the nickname of Goober even though she thought he was gorgeous, to remind herself they could never have a romantic future. She had several fears and insecurities but worked to overcome them with the help of Link, especially her fear of heights. Link is so honorable! He wants nothing more than to protect his mom. He really hates the idea of using Hadley because nothing about the way he feels for her is fake but he sees no other way out of his situation.
I loved the part when he is able to talk to Hadley and tell her the truth about his past and just need her without her needing anything back in that moment. It gave me all the feels because in his line of work it is something he wasn’t used to. It just pulled on my heart.
Other favorite moments:
-Hadley’s rules
-The breaking of the rules
-Sneaking into a movie theater and James leaving money everywhere. :)
-Weekly meatloaf dates with Hadley’s dad
-The leaf pile and almost kiss
-“All you can do is make the most of the moments when you are in them.”
-“Muchness”
-“Chris, Chris, Chris, or Flint. Please tell me it's not a Chris.”
I love celebrity romances and Julie wrote one that was so fun, heartwarming, and had great character growth! There is literally so much to love. One thing I learned from reading Julie’s rom-coms is that she writes the most beautiful and romantic grand gestures. The one in this book had me swooning hard! Trust me you don’t want to miss it so find a comfy spot and settle in because you are going to fly through this story and will be smiling the whole way.
Content Awareness: the loss of a loved one in the past is talked about throughout, but the story remains light.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
James was Hadley’s best friend from college 5 years ago. When he tags along with her to a music audition he gets noticed by an agent that wants him to fly out to California. Now he is Lincoln James, famous superhero movie star. After a bad run in with a photographer he needs to fix his image. So he shows up on Hadley’s doorstep asking her to be his fake girlfriend with the end goal of her breaking his heart on camera.
I loved these two! Hadley and Link are like a breath of fresh air and their story gave me all the feels. Hadley is such a real and relatable heroine. I love how she gave James the nickname of Goober even though she thought he was gorgeous, to remind herself they could never have a romantic future. She had several fears and insecurities but worked to overcome them with the help of Link, especially her fear of heights. Link is so honorable! He wants nothing more than to protect his mom. He really hates the idea of using Hadley because nothing about the way he feels for her is fake but he sees no other way out of his situation.
I loved the part when he is able to talk to Hadley and tell her the truth about his past and just need her without her needing anything back in that moment. It gave me all the feels because in his line of work it is something he wasn’t used to. It just pulled on my heart.
Other favorite moments:
-Hadley’s rules
-The breaking of the rules
-Sneaking into a movie theater and James leaving money everywhere. :)
-Weekly meatloaf dates with Hadley’s dad
-The leaf pile and almost kiss
-“All you can do is make the most of the moments when you are in them.”
-“Muchness”
-“Chris, Chris, Chris, or Flint. Please tell me it's not a Chris.”
I love celebrity romances and Julie wrote one that was so fun, heartwarming, and had great character growth! There is literally so much to love. One thing I learned from reading Julie’s rom-coms is that she writes the most beautiful and romantic grand gestures. The one in this book had me swooning hard! Trust me you don’t want to miss it so find a comfy spot and settle in because you are going to fly through this story and will be smiling the whole way.
Content Awareness: the loss of a loved one in the past is talked about throughout, but the story remains light.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 24, 2023
3.5/5 maybe i kinda got bored
July 16, 2024
This was such a wonderful feel-good rom com. I loved Hadley from the beginning. She was so down to earth and funny. James was so sweet, even with his secrets. I loved his protective nature and determination. I absolutely recommend this book to anyone looking for an uplifting romance.
October 1, 2023
I am a puddle of swoony feels 🫠
🤍 Thank you so much @juliechristiansonauthor for the copy of your amazing new romance 🤍
Faking the Fall was just absolute perfection and it was the most comforting and cozy read.
I loved the celebrity romance and fake dating, but it was all the little pieces that made up Link and Hadley’s story that had hearts in my eyes.
The childhood friends with a hint of second chance feelings, the banter, the emotions, and I just couldn’t get enough.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Steam: kissing
🤍 Thank you so much @juliechristiansonauthor for the copy of your amazing new romance 🤍
Faking the Fall was just absolute perfection and it was the most comforting and cozy read.
I loved the celebrity romance and fake dating, but it was all the little pieces that made up Link and Hadley’s story that had hearts in my eyes.
The childhood friends with a hint of second chance feelings, the banter, the emotions, and I just couldn’t get enough.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★/5
Steam: kissing
September 10, 2023
Faking the Fall is the fourth book in the Sweater Weather series. This is a multi-author series with each book being set in the same small town, but all books can be read as standalones and in any order.
Oh my goodness, these two! First and foremost, it's no secret by now that I am always here for a fake dating story. Every. Single. Time. It's by far one of my very favorite tropes. For me, I love seeing all the unique reasons authors come up with for their characters to enter into the charade. On the surface, this one seems fairly typical... when Link get in a little trouble with the paparazzi, his agent thinks being linked to a sweet hometown girl will be good for his reputation. Nothing too out of the ordinary there, right? But what really sets this story apart was his reasons for WHY it was so important for him... I won't give too much away, but seriously, Link is just the absolute sweetest. I loved how very protective he was with the people he cared about... including Hadley! It's going to be super hard to read this one without swooning over him at least a little! And the two of them together? So very good! I could not get enough of them! (And the side characters like Hadley's dad and boss only helped to make the story that much better too!)
While I definitely loved the romance and the laughs, I also loved that it had depth and took on some more serious topics like mental health and loss of loved ones as well. It is when those harder, real life experiences are blended into the story that I find the stories are going to stick with me long after the end, and I'm sure this one will be the same.
If you love a good fake dating story with small town charm and fall vibes, you absolutely do NOT want to miss this one.
Faking the Fall is a closed-door romance with nothing beyond kissing and no language.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Oh my goodness, these two! First and foremost, it's no secret by now that I am always here for a fake dating story. Every. Single. Time. It's by far one of my very favorite tropes. For me, I love seeing all the unique reasons authors come up with for their characters to enter into the charade. On the surface, this one seems fairly typical... when Link get in a little trouble with the paparazzi, his agent thinks being linked to a sweet hometown girl will be good for his reputation. Nothing too out of the ordinary there, right? But what really sets this story apart was his reasons for WHY it was so important for him... I won't give too much away, but seriously, Link is just the absolute sweetest. I loved how very protective he was with the people he cared about... including Hadley! It's going to be super hard to read this one without swooning over him at least a little! And the two of them together? So very good! I could not get enough of them! (And the side characters like Hadley's dad and boss only helped to make the story that much better too!)
While I definitely loved the romance and the laughs, I also loved that it had depth and took on some more serious topics like mental health and loss of loved ones as well. It is when those harder, real life experiences are blended into the story that I find the stories are going to stick with me long after the end, and I'm sure this one will be the same.
If you love a good fake dating story with small town charm and fall vibes, you absolutely do NOT want to miss this one.
Faking the Fall is a closed-door romance with nothing beyond kissing and no language.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2023
4.5 stars
A SWEET GEM.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I went into this with the best of hopes and I was gratefully charmed by the entire story. I absolutely loved the way LInk was written and how we learned more about his background and reasoning. I’m hit or miss on celebrity romances and I loved the way this one was crafted.
I also really liked Hadley too. These were both just two genuinely kind people trying to make the best decisions with the life they’ve been handed. I looooved the mutual pining and the increasingly tender moments they had as their connection reignited. It’s a sweet story with some good fake dating moments and let me tell y’all, the communication towards the end?? LOVED IT SO DANG MUCH. Exactly what I hoped for, made total sense, and really showed that Hadley and Link trusted and cared for each other. I am smitten.
The fall vibes are once again in this series, immaculate. These authors have all done a fantastic job of creating this world. I found this to be a super fast read and once that made my heart flutter.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: None
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of loved ones (happened prior to book)
A SWEET GEM.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I went into this with the best of hopes and I was gratefully charmed by the entire story. I absolutely loved the way LInk was written and how we learned more about his background and reasoning. I’m hit or miss on celebrity romances and I loved the way this one was crafted.
I also really liked Hadley too. These were both just two genuinely kind people trying to make the best decisions with the life they’ve been handed. I looooved the mutual pining and the increasingly tender moments they had as their connection reignited. It’s a sweet story with some good fake dating moments and let me tell y’all, the communication towards the end?? LOVED IT SO DANG MUCH. Exactly what I hoped for, made total sense, and really showed that Hadley and Link trusted and cared for each other. I am smitten.
The fall vibes are once again in this series, immaculate. These authors have all done a fantastic job of creating this world. I found this to be a super fast read and once that made my heart flutter.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: None
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of loved ones (happened prior to book)
April 16, 2024
All of these books are absolutely adorable!!! 🥹 I love the small town fall vibes! I just am so obsessed with these characters! Honestly, although I loved (loveeeed) this book, it was probably my least favorite in the sweater weather series. 🫣 I thought it was cringey at times….but I loved how much Link loved his family, and it truly showed! I loved the Taylor Swift references!!! And I am such a sucker for tattoos🤭 I loveeeeee that Link had wings for his bother on his back! ❤️ Anyway, as usual, I absolutely love this book and 100% recommend it!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pages: 318
Language/TW: 2/10
Format I read: Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Rom com
Would I recommend to others: Yesss!
Tropes: small town, friends to lovers, fame, he falls first, fall vibes, HEA
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pages: 318
Language/TW: 2/10
Format I read: Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Rom com
Would I recommend to others: Yesss!
Tropes: small town, friends to lovers, fame, he falls first, fall vibes, HEA
September 12, 2023
Julie Christianson is so talented. She can make you laugh, cry or swoon. This is the sweetest fake dating/ second chance romance!
I loved Hadley. She’s so brave and strong at trying new things and overcoming her fears. I loved how she took the lead in their fake relationship.
Link/James is the fairytale boyfriend. So kind and protective of those he loves.
If you love small town vibes and being immersed in a wonderful North Carolina fall harvest atmosphere you’ll love this. The descriptions make you feel like you are there watching the story unfold.
I highly recommend this book and anything else written by Julie Christianson.
I loved Hadley. She’s so brave and strong at trying new things and overcoming her fears. I loved how she took the lead in their fake relationship.
Link/James is the fairytale boyfriend. So kind and protective of those he loves.
If you love small town vibes and being immersed in a wonderful North Carolina fall harvest atmosphere you’ll love this. The descriptions make you feel like you are there watching the story unfold.
I highly recommend this book and anything else written by Julie Christianson.
September 24, 2023
I’m sorry, but no. The story is cute in theory, but it’s so freaking cheesy. Not for me.
July 30, 2024
3 stars ⭐ (I think)
This was ok
This was ok
June 7, 2024
This is too sweet. I can't put into words how much i enjoyed this one, probably my second favorite in the series.
Both MC had amazing chemistry, had amazing growth even the secondary characters had one and it was wholesome, a couple who communicates? Yes please a 1000% yes always.
-Small Town in the fall
-Friends to lovers
-Fake dating
-Second chance
-Famous MMC
This one was a quick and pleasant read, it begins with a flashback 5 years ago when Hadley and James were both in college and Hadley went to an audition for a talent show, unbeknown to her this was also the day their friendship was going to change, the last day she saw James before he ghosted her to pursue an acting career in Hollywood. The rest of the story is about them rekindling their friendship with the twist that also will benefit James's career by Hadley pretending to be his girlfriend and then breaking his heart at the end.
I loved both MC, you could feel Hadley's emotions when she got the call and every time she tried to convince herself James meant nothing to her anymore, and also you can't help but feel sad for James and want to hug him because of the weight that he put on his shoulders for his sake and how hard it was for him to have Hadley so close to him after 5 years. Maybe a little too late they learn to communicate their feelings but while they discover what is happening between them they sure have amazing communication, sharing their thoughts and meaningful parts of their lives, they do try to be better for each other and their families and friends, which was well executed.
Both MC had amazing chemistry, had amazing growth even the secondary characters had one and it was wholesome, a couple who communicates? Yes please a 1000% yes always.
-Small Town in the fall
-Friends to lovers
-Fake dating
-Second chance
-Famous MMC
This one was a quick and pleasant read, it begins with a flashback 5 years ago when Hadley and James were both in college and Hadley went to an audition for a talent show, unbeknown to her this was also the day their friendship was going to change, the last day she saw James before he ghosted her to pursue an acting career in Hollywood. The rest of the story is about them rekindling their friendship with the twist that also will benefit James's career by Hadley pretending to be his girlfriend and then breaking his heart at the end.
I loved both MC, you could feel Hadley's emotions when she got the call and every time she tried to convince herself James meant nothing to her anymore, and also you can't help but feel sad for James and want to hug him because of the weight that he put on his shoulders for his sake and how hard it was for him to have Hadley so close to him after 5 years. Maybe a little too late they learn to communicate their feelings but while they discover what is happening between them they sure have amazing communication, sharing their thoughts and meaningful parts of their lives, they do try to be better for each other and their families and friends, which was well executed.
February 25, 2024
4.75 stars
This was a new to me author but a few of the authors writing this series I did know and now I love her too! She did write one of my favorite tropes: fake relationship and she nailed it!
Hadley and James are best friends and both secretly hope for more but are afraid to say anything. Fast forward five years and they're being thrown together again. James is now Linc and a famous actor in a popular superhero movie franchise. Hadley is back home in Harvest Hollow, teaching choir at the highschool she attended as a teenager. Hadley has always had a problem saying no to anyone, so when she does finally say know to his agent's proposal, he doesn't know if he should be proud or disappointed. Hang on, this will be a fun but bumpy ride.
A sweet romance story that was very swoon-y. Is that a word? The other characters were great as well but I loved both Hadley and James/Link. I love real characters that we get to know in the stories. They become living and breathing people in our minds and hearts.
This was an excellent addition to this series and I am looking forward to reading the rest and anything else that Julie has written.
This was a new to me author but a few of the authors writing this series I did know and now I love her too! She did write one of my favorite tropes: fake relationship and she nailed it!
Hadley and James are best friends and both secretly hope for more but are afraid to say anything. Fast forward five years and they're being thrown together again. James is now Linc and a famous actor in a popular superhero movie franchise. Hadley is back home in Harvest Hollow, teaching choir at the highschool she attended as a teenager. Hadley has always had a problem saying no to anyone, so when she does finally say know to his agent's proposal, he doesn't know if he should be proud or disappointed. Hang on, this will be a fun but bumpy ride.
A sweet romance story that was very swoon-y. Is that a word? The other characters were great as well but I loved both Hadley and James/Link. I love real characters that we get to know in the stories. They become living and breathing people in our minds and hearts.
This was an excellent addition to this series and I am looking forward to reading the rest and anything else that Julie has written.
September 22, 2023
I always hate leaving less than stellar reviews. I know authors put so much time and energy into their work. But I was not a fan of this one.
I’ve been reading this Sweater Weather series, and this was my least favorite. The whole premise is too unrealistic for me. The guy ghosts her for 5 full years, begs a favor and after 30 minutes she’s like “sure! I’ll fake date you.” No way. The storyline seemed forced too many times and while the characters were likeable enough, it just seemed long and drawn out.
I’ve been reading this Sweater Weather series, and this was my least favorite. The whole premise is too unrealistic for me. The guy ghosts her for 5 full years, begs a favor and after 30 minutes she’s like “sure! I’ll fake date you.” No way. The storyline seemed forced too many times and while the characters were likeable enough, it just seemed long and drawn out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2023
Dull
I got about a third of the way in then skipped to the end. The characters were mostly lifeless. The story too predictable. A lot of descriptions of places that didn't add to the story.
I got about a third of the way in then skipped to the end. The characters were mostly lifeless. The story too predictable. A lot of descriptions of places that didn't add to the story.
September 24, 2023
Why do I keep reading these
September 28, 2023
Still don't truly believe in the believability of this town. Story line reads similar to "How to Kiss a Movie Star".
September 18, 2023
Wow! That’s one way of saying how I feel about this book!
Friends who have been separated by time (5 years worth) and a couple of thousand miles, makes things rather uncomfortable when it comes to creating good PR for Link as he recently had some bad press. His publicist dug up the one person he never completely forgot and so a fake relationship was thrown into the equation except she said ‘no’!
Hadley Morgan is a happy high school music teacher that has been doing well for herself despite not having the greatest audition 5 years ago! Link pays her a house call, through clever rules and a designated timeline, Hadley agrees to pose as his girlfriend! The relationship is tightlipped for now as the Hollywood people want to control the good PR flow!
Link has some closely guarded secrets that have remained quiet for more years than he can remember that might be exposed if he doesn’t things to a better place. Despite his tender heart, his emotions and need to control things – life hasn’t always been so kind in return. Being seen as one of Hollywood’s top dogs only to have it all be potentially ripped away for having a moral high ground is less than ideal!
The various dates provided amble opportunities for the couple to talk out, what they missed over the years – providing some much-needed closure to wounds that were glossed over. One thing has definitely not disappeared over the missing years is their CHEMISTRY! It’s through the roof and then some! It pours out from every shadow, fake kiss, every lingering handhold! This book has it all the MUCHNESS one can handle! I cannot say enough of how I love this book! Can’t wait to add it to the permanent bookshelf! 5/5
Friends who have been separated by time (5 years worth) and a couple of thousand miles, makes things rather uncomfortable when it comes to creating good PR for Link as he recently had some bad press. His publicist dug up the one person he never completely forgot and so a fake relationship was thrown into the equation except she said ‘no’!
Hadley Morgan is a happy high school music teacher that has been doing well for herself despite not having the greatest audition 5 years ago! Link pays her a house call, through clever rules and a designated timeline, Hadley agrees to pose as his girlfriend! The relationship is tightlipped for now as the Hollywood people want to control the good PR flow!
Link has some closely guarded secrets that have remained quiet for more years than he can remember that might be exposed if he doesn’t things to a better place. Despite his tender heart, his emotions and need to control things – life hasn’t always been so kind in return. Being seen as one of Hollywood’s top dogs only to have it all be potentially ripped away for having a moral high ground is less than ideal!
The various dates provided amble opportunities for the couple to talk out, what they missed over the years – providing some much-needed closure to wounds that were glossed over. One thing has definitely not disappeared over the missing years is their CHEMISTRY! It’s through the roof and then some! It pours out from every shadow, fake kiss, every lingering handhold! This book has it all the MUCHNESS one can handle! I cannot say enough of how I love this book! Can’t wait to add it to the permanent bookshelf! 5/5
September 25, 2023
this book is soooo wholesome, heartwarming, romantic, sweet, funny and cute. SO FREAKING ADORABLE!! this is a feel good romance book. i love it so much!
i love hadley!! AAAAH this girl is sooo freaking amazing. she is so brave and very good at communication! she is soooooo selfless and kind. i also loves how she understands james so much and decide to take a lead on saying something. she is truly amazing and the sweetest!
and james, oh this man, HE IS HEAD OVER HEELS for her since the start. he is such an gentleman and has a good heart. he wants to protect the people he loves so much. it is soooo funny AND SO FREAKING CUTE when he is being all nervous and didn't know what to do around her because he adores her so so much.
i ship them so so much they are literally soulmate for life. i genuinely felt sooo full and happy when they finally open up to each other and be together.
it's so fluffy and swoony but also address some heavy topics and i really appreciate it a lot, we can see some characters development in this book. the characters are super loveable i want to hug them all<33
i love hadley!! AAAAH this girl is sooo freaking amazing. she is so brave and very good at communication! she is soooooo selfless and kind. i also loves how she understands james so much and decide to take a lead on saying something. she is truly amazing and the sweetest!
and james, oh this man, HE IS HEAD OVER HEELS for her since the start. he is such an gentleman and has a good heart. he wants to protect the people he loves so much. it is soooo funny AND SO FREAKING CUTE when he is being all nervous and didn't know what to do around her because he adores her so so much.
i ship them so so much they are literally soulmate for life. i genuinely felt sooo full and happy when they finally open up to each other and be together.
it's so fluffy and swoony but also address some heavy topics and i really appreciate it a lot, we can see some characters development in this book. the characters are super loveable i want to hug them all<33
September 19, 2023
Fall vibes mixed with second chance romance, friends to lovers, fake relationship, and celebrity issues.
Really a fun combo! I love a book when I love the characters and these two main characters were very lovable!
Hadley and James/Link knew each other during the college years and then grew apart rather abruptly. Their connection as friends was solid and their attraction to each other has always been there, but the timing has never been right for everything to work out. Timing in real life romance is a tricky thing, but Julie really knows how to orchestrate perfect timing for these two in this book.
I loved Hadley’s confidence in herself. That confidence hasn’t always been there, but she’s found it and knows how to use it now. James/Link is such a sensitive soul. He’s been through so much and carried so much responsibility and sorrow for so many years. It’s a special thing when someone can let the pieces fall and trust those around them to help pick them up and support them. I love how these two figure out the past as well as the present with each other.
Lots of swoony moments. Gotta love what fake dating produces! Another great romance by Julie Christianson! Cuddle up with this one this fall!
Really a fun combo! I love a book when I love the characters and these two main characters were very lovable!
Hadley and James/Link knew each other during the college years and then grew apart rather abruptly. Their connection as friends was solid and their attraction to each other has always been there, but the timing has never been right for everything to work out. Timing in real life romance is a tricky thing, but Julie really knows how to orchestrate perfect timing for these two in this book.
I loved Hadley’s confidence in herself. That confidence hasn’t always been there, but she’s found it and knows how to use it now. James/Link is such a sensitive soul. He’s been through so much and carried so much responsibility and sorrow for so many years. It’s a special thing when someone can let the pieces fall and trust those around them to help pick them up and support them. I love how these two figure out the past as well as the present with each other.
Lots of swoony moments. Gotta love what fake dating produces! Another great romance by Julie Christianson! Cuddle up with this one this fall!
November 23, 2024
A sweet, small town fake dating, second chance romance between a celebrity actor in need of a PR boost and his former college crush. The two agree to a deal where Hadley will dump Levi when he proposes to her on live tv in but when feelings get real will they go through with the plan?? Good on audio and a feel-good, easy read perfect for Hallmark movie fans.
November 3, 2024
Just fine. I think what saved it was Hadley and Link as people — I really did like the characters. But so many aspects of their relationship just didn’t sit the way I wanted.
June 9, 2024
Another sweet Rom-com with a happy ending. Enjoyed the story
September 22, 2023
Rom-com Romance 3⭐️
Fake dating Actor
Mutual pinning Forced proximity
Small town
Fast paced romance, of college friends to strangers to lovers. They haven’t seen each other in 5 years and fake date to save his career. He has a secret he never told her and left her behind thinking she deserved better. They were pinning for each in college but never acted on it.
It was a little weird for them to basically be fall in love after only spending a weekend together after 5yrs of zero contact. This is my least favorite so far of the series. But I really liked the epilogue.
Fake dating Actor
Mutual pinning Forced proximity
Small town
Fast paced romance, of college friends to strangers to lovers. They haven’t seen each other in 5 years and fake date to save his career. He has a secret he never told her and left her behind thinking she deserved better. They were pinning for each in college but never acted on it.
It was a little weird for them to basically be fall in love after only spending a weekend together after 5yrs of zero contact. This is my least favorite so far of the series. But I really liked the epilogue.
October 11, 2023
Another fun addition to the series!
4 1/2 stars
4 1/2 stars
September 21, 2023
I don’t know how she did it, but Julie captured Fall in book form!! Faking The Fall had me craving a big ol’ slice of warm apple pie with a scoop of ice cream on the side! Yes, that’s how good this book is!
Julie always knows how to write a swoony romance that sweeps you off your feet! James and Hadley’s love story was crafted so beautifully! I’m always a sucker for fake dating and these two did it to perfection!
James had me smitten!! The way he took care of him mom was precious and when he loved, he did it with his whole heart! He was so romantic and a true gentleman, especially when it came to Hadley!
Hadley was your classic small town girl! I related so much to her, cause I’m a people pleaser just like she was! She was so kind and giving. She loved her students, job and her small town. Her friendship with Nina was the sweetest! She was just so genuine! I loved that about her!
I enjoyed watching them rediscover their friendship and finally letting their true feelings show! Their banter was spot on and the chemistry was on fire! You won’t be able to turn the pages fast enough!
I adored Harvest Hollow and the people in it! It gave me Gilmore Girl vibes, which I loved! The side characters were so much fun! Sam was hilarious! He had me laughing so hard when he was on the page!
Things I Loved
🍎The “Scough”
🍎The “ground rules”
🍎Goobers candy
🍎HadLink
🍎The Corn Maze
🍎“A blender of Wildebeests”
🍎The theater scene
🍎Daily questions
🍎Muchness🥰
🍎The first real kiss🔥
🍎Smiley faced toes🥰
🍎Apple slices 🔥
🍎Meatloaf Night
🍎Dolores
🍎Spontaneity and adventure
🍎Breaking the rules😉🔥
Now, grab a slice of apple pie, a blanket and some apple cider and curl up with this yummy book!! You’re definitely in for a treat!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Julie always knows how to write a swoony romance that sweeps you off your feet! James and Hadley’s love story was crafted so beautifully! I’m always a sucker for fake dating and these two did it to perfection!
James had me smitten!! The way he took care of him mom was precious and when he loved, he did it with his whole heart! He was so romantic and a true gentleman, especially when it came to Hadley!
Hadley was your classic small town girl! I related so much to her, cause I’m a people pleaser just like she was! She was so kind and giving. She loved her students, job and her small town. Her friendship with Nina was the sweetest! She was just so genuine! I loved that about her!
I enjoyed watching them rediscover their friendship and finally letting their true feelings show! Their banter was spot on and the chemistry was on fire! You won’t be able to turn the pages fast enough!
I adored Harvest Hollow and the people in it! It gave me Gilmore Girl vibes, which I loved! The side characters were so much fun! Sam was hilarious! He had me laughing so hard when he was on the page!
Things I Loved
🍎The “Scough”
🍎The “ground rules”
🍎Goobers candy
🍎HadLink
🍎The Corn Maze
🍎“A blender of Wildebeests”
🍎The theater scene
🍎Daily questions
🍎Muchness🥰
🍎The first real kiss🔥
🍎Smiley faced toes🥰
🍎Apple slices 🔥
🍎Meatloaf Night
🍎Dolores
🍎Spontaneity and adventure
🍎Breaking the rules😉🔥
Now, grab a slice of apple pie, a blanket and some apple cider and curl up with this yummy book!! You’re definitely in for a treat!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 3, 2023
Fake celebrity dating. Yup, I can feel the eye rolls from here, friends. One of the most cliche and overused tropes ever. BUT!!!! While this might be the “trope” for this book, it’s definitely not cheesy or overused. It’s actually the vehicle for some soul searching, forgiveness, life evaluation and a real love story. There is CONVERSATION, YALL!! Conversation that is real, honest and engaging. Link and Hadley are not a perfect couple but they are best friends and it’s the best start for a love relationship. And their lives are messy, complicated and yet so delightful. What begins as a staged relationship becomes an opportunity for deep connection and letting go of white knuckled control of life. I really did love the romance of the story but it was the friendship that supersedes it all. Best friends to lovers came in the most beautiful way WITHOUT A THIRD ACT BREAKUP!! And that ending, yall, is something else and I was here. for. it. Definitely recommend you get this story on your TBR, it will make you happy dance for sure. You will love it muchness (IYKYK)!!
I received a complimentary ARC of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
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