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The Fake Out Flex
He's a guarded pro hockey player. My brother's best friend. My high school crush. And now…my fake date to my ex's wedding. What could possibly go wrong?
After my breakup on live TV goes viral—yep, I'm Breakup Sneeze Girl, hi!—I cannot go to my ex's wedding alone.
So my totally non-meddling—cough, yeah right—brother ropes in his best friend as my date.
The only problem is, Fraser and I share a history. He was my high school crush…until he left without even saying goodbye.
But that was seven years ago, and I am completely, one thousand percent, over it.
One fake date with Fraser? No problem. I can handle that.
Until one date turns into me being his fake girlfriend.
The more time we spend together, the more I catch glimpses of the Fraser I knew back in high school. Under his gruff exterior, he's kind. Protective. Encouraging. He's also got the most intense blue eyes and cutest smile I've ever seen.
And yep, okay, my crush is back with a vengeance.
Only this time, it doesn't feel so one-sided. Fraser buys me my favorite flowers. He flies across the country just to check in on me. And when he gazes into my eyes, there's something simmering between us I can't deny.
But will Fraser leave again, or can our fake relationship turn into something real?
The Fake Out Flex is a closed-door pro hockey romance with plenty of banter, fast-talking friends, truth fries, the granddaddy of grand gestures, and a heartwarming happily-ever-after. It's the first book in the Hockeymances series and can be read as a standalone.
The Fake Out Flex is PERFECT if you love:
Pro hockey sports romance
Fake dating
Brother's best friend
High school crush
Boy obsessed
Cozy small town feels
Chosen family
Closed door romance
After my breakup on live TV goes viral—yep, I'm Breakup Sneeze Girl, hi!—I cannot go to my ex's wedding alone.
So my totally non-meddling—cough, yeah right—brother ropes in his best friend as my date.
The only problem is, Fraser and I share a history. He was my high school crush…until he left without even saying goodbye.
But that was seven years ago, and I am completely, one thousand percent, over it.
One fake date with Fraser? No problem. I can handle that.
Until one date turns into me being his fake girlfriend.
The more time we spend together, the more I catch glimpses of the Fraser I knew back in high school. Under his gruff exterior, he's kind. Protective. Encouraging. He's also got the most intense blue eyes and cutest smile I've ever seen.
And yep, okay, my crush is back with a vengeance.
Only this time, it doesn't feel so one-sided. Fraser buys me my favorite flowers. He flies across the country just to check in on me. And when he gazes into my eyes, there's something simmering between us I can't deny.
But will Fraser leave again, or can our fake relationship turn into something real?
The Fake Out Flex is a closed-door pro hockey romance with plenty of banter, fast-talking friends, truth fries, the granddaddy of grand gestures, and a heartwarming happily-ever-after. It's the first book in the Hockeymances series and can be read as a standalone.
The Fake Out Flex is PERFECT if you love:
Pro hockey sports romance
Fake dating
Brother's best friend
High school crush
Boy obsessed
Cozy small town feels
Chosen family
Closed door romance
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2024
361 people are currently reading
866 people want to read
About the author
Ash Kelly
3 books42 followersAuthor of fast-paced sweet romcoms with lovable characters, swoony romance, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
May 22, 2024
It's difficult for me to fully understand why this book didn't work for me, because on the surface, it had a lot of tropes I really enjoy - brother's best friend and childhood pining being the top two. However, it read...a bit like a Christian novel masquerading as a secular romance, which really made things confusing for me. I read Christian romance and enjoy it, but I always want to go into the book knowing that's what I'll be reading. I don't expect to be preached to in a secular book regarding purity and abstinence, and that's how it felt to me while reading. I don't know if this is the full reason behind my not enjoying the book, but I think it had a lot to do with it.
More context...with some spoilers...
Both main characters are virgins. They want to wait until marriage to do the deed, and this has made past relationships really difficult. The FMC is in a group of women who seemingly stick together because they are the only ones who understand that they want to remain virgins. It is mentioned AD NAUSEAM. To the point where I started to roll my eyes. Being a virgin felt like it was their entire personality. I expected one to whip out a bible, complete with their favorite verse, at any moment. It was...weird.
The MMC's sister had a child as a teenager out of wedlock who has down syndrome. Their family hid it from the world (they had their own reality show at the time). This is a big thing for the MMC, who wants to protect both his sister and her son. I wasn't really understanding the big deal. The point seemed to be that it was to protect them from the world, but I got the impression it was more to protect the family from scandal. It read weird.
All this to say, I wasn't a fan. It wasn't a bad book, it just wasn't as advertised (to me). I also just didn't feel the two MCs had really any chemistry. Friends, yes. Romantic, no.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
More context...with some spoilers...
Both main characters are virgins. They want to wait until marriage to do the deed, and this has made past relationships really difficult. The FMC is in a group of women who seemingly stick together because they are the only ones who understand that they want to remain virgins. It is mentioned AD NAUSEAM. To the point where I started to roll my eyes. Being a virgin felt like it was their entire personality. I expected one to whip out a bible, complete with their favorite verse, at any moment. It was...weird.
The MMC's sister had a child as a teenager out of wedlock who has down syndrome. Their family hid it from the world (they had their own reality show at the time). This is a big thing for the MMC, who wants to protect both his sister and her son. I wasn't really understanding the big deal. The point seemed to be that it was to protect them from the world, but I got the impression it was more to protect the family from scandal. It read weird.
All this to say, I wasn't a fan. It wasn't a bad book, it just wasn't as advertised (to me). I also just didn't feel the two MCs had really any chemistry. Friends, yes. Romantic, no.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
May 1, 2024
I have some thoughts about this book, so I'll try to be organized, but realistically, this review will probably be a little chaotic.
First off, I just wanted to say that this book did make me laugh. Out loud. Multiple times. That is HARD to do for anyone who writes and can make the reader actually laugh, so I just want to applaud the author for making that happened.
Now, onto the not so great stuff and some good stuff.... So this book had a pretty decent plot. I liked that the characters had known each other for years and used to be neighbors. I liked that the FMC and MMC were both virgins and stuck to their values of wanting to wait until marriage. I liked that this was a brother's best friend and it was clear that there was lots of medaling from the brother. And this book had really good banter, especially towards the beginning. The banter did die down a little, which was a little disappointing. I also felt like sometimes the characters personalities didn't match what they did or always said. I do feel like it could have been a little bit more fine tuned in that aspected, but this is a debut novel, so I'm giving it some leeway there.
Probably my biggest complaint, and honestly a huge pet peeve of mine when reading books, is that the Down syndrome representation was inaccurate. If you are going to write a book with someone with a disability, you better do extreme research and make the character accurately portray someone with that disability. You should not just make a normal person and slap on that they have down syndrome. It does not work like that and it bothers me so much. This book felt very similar to The Fine Print in that regard, and I hate it. I have grown up with someone with Down syndrome, so when an author puts Down syndrome in a book, they better make it as accurate as possible. Okay, enough ranting about this because I think you get my picture.
There were times were I thought things were too cheesy, too overdone, and really just too over-the-top when they didn't need to be. The grand gesture at the end didn't really make sense, and comparing the tropes in books didn't really make sense in some parts since the characters didn't even read.
With all this said, I did enjoy a lot of parts within this book and feel like this author has great potential. I am really looking forward to reading their next book because I can definitely see the author's writing getting better and better with every book.
Read this if you love:
- Closed-door romance
- Hockey romances
- Brother's best friend
- Fake dating
- Weddings
- High School crush
I received a free e-ARC of this book from the author, which in no way impacts my review.
First off, I just wanted to say that this book did make me laugh. Out loud. Multiple times. That is HARD to do for anyone who writes and can make the reader actually laugh, so I just want to applaud the author for making that happened.
Now, onto the not so great stuff and some good stuff.... So this book had a pretty decent plot. I liked that the characters had known each other for years and used to be neighbors. I liked that the FMC and MMC were both virgins and stuck to their values of wanting to wait until marriage. I liked that this was a brother's best friend and it was clear that there was lots of medaling from the brother. And this book had really good banter, especially towards the beginning. The banter did die down a little, which was a little disappointing. I also felt like sometimes the characters personalities didn't match what they did or always said. I do feel like it could have been a little bit more fine tuned in that aspected, but this is a debut novel, so I'm giving it some leeway there.
Probably my biggest complaint, and honestly a huge pet peeve of mine when reading books, is that the Down syndrome representation was inaccurate. If you are going to write a book with someone with a disability, you better do extreme research and make the character accurately portray someone with that disability. You should not just make a normal person and slap on that they have down syndrome. It does not work like that and it bothers me so much. This book felt very similar to The Fine Print in that regard, and I hate it. I have grown up with someone with Down syndrome, so when an author puts Down syndrome in a book, they better make it as accurate as possible. Okay, enough ranting about this because I think you get my picture.
There were times were I thought things were too cheesy, too overdone, and really just too over-the-top when they didn't need to be. The grand gesture at the end didn't really make sense, and comparing the tropes in books didn't really make sense in some parts since the characters didn't even read.
With all this said, I did enjoy a lot of parts within this book and feel like this author has great potential. I am really looking forward to reading their next book because I can definitely see the author's writing getting better and better with every book.
Read this if you love:
- Closed-door romance
- Hockey romances
- Brother's best friend
- Fake dating
- Weddings
- High School crush
I received a free e-ARC of this book from the author, which in no way impacts my review.
May 14, 2024
(3.5 Stars)
Evie works on a morning TV show and was the star of a breakup video that went viral. I was so mad at that guy–who does that?! But what I really didn’t understand was why in the world she was determined to go to her ex’s wedding–who does that?! I’ll tell you why–because it opened up the door for her to be escorted by her high school crush, Fraser, who also happens to be a big-time hockey star for the Swifts (and is a closet Swiftie) and her brother’s best friend. And that, my friends, was the beginning of some unfinished business.
“It’s official. My crush on Fraser has returned with a vengeance.”
I’m deeply entrenched in my hockey romance era and this one is fun. I enjoyed seeing the flashbacks to high school and felt it added to the whole well-roundedness of the book, but it was the current sizzles of attraction that really made me swoon. It’s all about the timing and I really enjoyed the way all the unanswered questions were resolved, as sometimes what’s fake becomes real. While this was a fun debut journey, I didn’t love the emphasis on virginity and the big secrets and shame associated with that.
Content: mild romance; mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
Evie works on a morning TV show and was the star of a breakup video that went viral. I was so mad at that guy–who does that?! But what I really didn’t understand was why in the world she was determined to go to her ex’s wedding–who does that?! I’ll tell you why–because it opened up the door for her to be escorted by her high school crush, Fraser, who also happens to be a big-time hockey star for the Swifts (and is a closet Swiftie) and her brother’s best friend. And that, my friends, was the beginning of some unfinished business.
“It’s official. My crush on Fraser has returned with a vengeance.”
I’m deeply entrenched in my hockey romance era and this one is fun. I enjoyed seeing the flashbacks to high school and felt it added to the whole well-roundedness of the book, but it was the current sizzles of attraction that really made me swoon. It’s all about the timing and I really enjoyed the way all the unanswered questions were resolved, as sometimes what’s fake becomes real. While this was a fun debut journey, I didn’t love the emphasis on virginity and the big secrets and shame associated with that.
Content: mild romance; mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
April 29, 2024
Adorable closed door sports romance!
I really liked the first half of this book a lot! The second half I didn't like quite as much. But overall, it is a great debut book by this new author! It was a funny and cute romcom. This book had a lot of tropes that I really like: hockey sports romance, brother's best friend, and fake dating. It is closed door and has a lot of fun banter. The family and friends were good additions to the story and there seems to be a good series set up for books going forward. One thing I didnt love was the virginity trope. It felt like too much. I love books where people wait until marriage, but I don't want it talked about too much. Fun, light, funny, and cute romcom!
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts are my own.
I really liked the first half of this book a lot! The second half I didn't like quite as much. But overall, it is a great debut book by this new author! It was a funny and cute romcom. This book had a lot of tropes that I really like: hockey sports romance, brother's best friend, and fake dating. It is closed door and has a lot of fun banter. The family and friends were good additions to the story and there seems to be a good series set up for books going forward. One thing I didnt love was the virginity trope. It felt like too much. I love books where people wait until marriage, but I don't want it talked about too much. Fun, light, funny, and cute romcom!
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts are my own.
May 4, 2024
This is a Brother’s Best Friend and Faking Dating Romcom. Oh and also Hockey for those in your Hockey Romcom era. The overall story was good. There was great bantering between the main characters and between siblings. I loved Evie and Fraser and thought they were cute together. I thought the first half of the book was better than the second half. There were just a few things I didn’t love including the virginity emphasis was a little over the top, too many yellow roses, the grand gesture seemed extremely over the top and I don’t know why he had to do a grand gesture in the first place. He also is supposed to be an introvert but doesn’t really act like it. Same with the Down syndrome kid doesn’t seem like he has Down syndrome. I think with some more polishing this would have been a great story, the author definitely has great potential and overall I thought this was a good story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: 7 uses of “D*mn”
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: 7 uses of “D*mn”
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 15, 2024
This is a super cute debut from author Ash Kelly!
Evie has had a crush on her brother's best friend since high school and little does she know that he has too. Evie had an embarrassing bad breakup on television with her ex and now she must attend her ex’s wedding. Evie's brother has set her up with his best friend and hockey player Fraser so she doesn’t have to attend alone. Fraser is all too happy with this fake date arrangement and even happier when the fake dating extends past the wedding. Can this fake relationship turn into something real? Well I think so :)
This book had so many tropes that I love; brother’s best friend, hockey and fake dating. Just reading the description made me smile so I knew I had to read it. I’m glad I did, it was light and full of fun banter that made me laugh! I really enjoy the connection between Evie and Fraser and loved the flashback scenes from when they were in highschool. It showed their history and how well they connected as friends. I thought Fraser was an absolute sweetheart with a wonderful view of love and marriage. He had great examples in his parents and grandparents and knew he wanted a love like theirs. I really liked how Evie was a huge hockey fan and knew all the stats and was able to give Fraser advice. The chemistry, almost kisses, and the build up to the romance were wonderfully done. I loved how they could both just be themselves with the other and felt safe doing that. Both of the main characters are virgins who want to wait until marriage because they want to be with that one special person. This isn’t something that is talked about in a lot of books and I really loved it! It is a strong topic throughout the story but I honestly found it kind of refreshing.
Things I loved:
Brother’s best friend
Fake dating
Hockey and Evie being a huge fan
Dancing to Sweet Moments
Almost Kisses
Truth fries
Talk chats like the 90s
Surprising Evie
First Kiss
The epilogue
Content Awareness: mild swearing. Strong theme of virginity and abstinence until marriage.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Evie has had a crush on her brother's best friend since high school and little does she know that he has too. Evie had an embarrassing bad breakup on television with her ex and now she must attend her ex’s wedding. Evie's brother has set her up with his best friend and hockey player Fraser so she doesn’t have to attend alone. Fraser is all too happy with this fake date arrangement and even happier when the fake dating extends past the wedding. Can this fake relationship turn into something real? Well I think so :)
This book had so many tropes that I love; brother’s best friend, hockey and fake dating. Just reading the description made me smile so I knew I had to read it. I’m glad I did, it was light and full of fun banter that made me laugh! I really enjoy the connection between Evie and Fraser and loved the flashback scenes from when they were in highschool. It showed their history and how well they connected as friends. I thought Fraser was an absolute sweetheart with a wonderful view of love and marriage. He had great examples in his parents and grandparents and knew he wanted a love like theirs. I really liked how Evie was a huge hockey fan and knew all the stats and was able to give Fraser advice. The chemistry, almost kisses, and the build up to the romance were wonderfully done. I loved how they could both just be themselves with the other and felt safe doing that. Both of the main characters are virgins who want to wait until marriage because they want to be with that one special person. This isn’t something that is talked about in a lot of books and I really loved it! It is a strong topic throughout the story but I honestly found it kind of refreshing.
Things I loved:
Brother’s best friend
Fake dating
Hockey and Evie being a huge fan
Dancing to Sweet Moments
Almost Kisses
Truth fries
Talk chats like the 90s
Surprising Evie
First Kiss
The epilogue
Content Awareness: mild swearing. Strong theme of virginity and abstinence until marriage.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 17, 2024
Title: The Fake Out Flex
Author: Ash Kelly
Genre: Romance
Media: ebook
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
—————————
Favorite quote: "The majority of people are good, Fraser. We can't let our lives be dictated by the tiny percentage who aren't. If people are truly so messed up that they'd make fun of a kid with an intellectual disability, that says everything we need to know about them."
Sum of this book in 5 words or less: Tell each other!!
KU: Yes
—————————
Themes: brothers best friend, pro hockey player, fake dating
—————————
Thoughts:
Short summary - Evie needs a date to her ex’s wedding, and that’s where Fraser steps in. Fraser and Evie go on to be fake boyfriend/girlfriend.
These two were so cute! I love that it’s revealed that Evie’s brother set it up so that they could finally reveal that they’ve loved each other since high school.
I liked this book and it was a simple short sweet romance that’s totally worth it! It's a closed door spice level - they’re both virgins waiting for marriage.
Author: Ash Kelly
Genre: Romance
Media: ebook
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
—————————
Favorite quote: "The majority of people are good, Fraser. We can't let our lives be dictated by the tiny percentage who aren't. If people are truly so messed up that they'd make fun of a kid with an intellectual disability, that says everything we need to know about them."
Sum of this book in 5 words or less: Tell each other!!
KU: Yes
—————————
Themes: brothers best friend, pro hockey player, fake dating
—————————
Thoughts:
Short summary - Evie needs a date to her ex’s wedding, and that’s where Fraser steps in. Fraser and Evie go on to be fake boyfriend/girlfriend.
These two were so cute! I love that it’s revealed that Evie’s brother set it up so that they could finally reveal that they’ve loved each other since high school.
I liked this book and it was a simple short sweet romance that’s totally worth it! It's a closed door spice level - they’re both virgins waiting for marriage.
May 11, 2024
This is the CUTEST story! I loved the banter/flirtiness between Evie and Fraser and the story was adorable. I have a list of characters that I need stories for and I can’t wait for book 2! This book made me smile the whole time which is one of the best reviews I can give this book. I will be buying a paperback copy of this book for my keeper shelf as soon as possible!
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
May 15, 2024
I don’t normally do sports romances as I lack interest in sport in general. But how could I not love it when Evie the fmc is so passionate about it. She is sunshine and joy wrapped in a hockey jersey and I am with her on naming inanimate objects, especially cars (mine is Myrtle).
Even if, like me, you don’t really do sport there is so much more to this book. Brother’s best friend, childhood crush, unrequited love (or is it?) a fast plot, terrific characters and the cherry on top with a grand gesture.
This is a clean, closed door romance but that just made it more about the important things. Like a solid friendship base, terrific banter and genuine good old fashioned romantic love.
This is such a good debut and I hope there are plenty more books to come from other characters, especially the fast talking four.
Even if, like me, you don’t really do sport there is so much more to this book. Brother’s best friend, childhood crush, unrequited love (or is it?) a fast plot, terrific characters and the cherry on top with a grand gesture.
This is a clean, closed door romance but that just made it more about the important things. Like a solid friendship base, terrific banter and genuine good old fashioned romantic love.
This is such a good debut and I hope there are plenty more books to come from other characters, especially the fast talking four.
April 29, 2024
Really sweet and adorable!
I loved Evie and Fraser's story!
They had a unique take on the brothers best friend, friends to lovers romance and fake dating that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Also YAY for communication and for having healthy relationship values and examples in this book. I ADORED that part and it just made me love these characters even more.
Evie and Fraser are funny and I love the way Evie's mind works and their banter.
It was fun having the depths of their past and struggles unfold throughout the story. I'm super invested in our side characters and can't wait to to read the next book in the series!
I want the fast talking five to have their love stories!!
💋Just kissing & discussions about being virgins (I felt like it was classy done but talked about quite a bit)
💋*A side character references dressing their husband up in hockey gear and how it's helped spice things up in their love life. Nothing else is described. This kinda brought down the star rating for me as it didn't really fit with the rest of the story
🤬 7 uses of d*** - also brought down the star rating for me as neither character seemed to have a personality that would swear even if the words were said internally in their mind. It just didn't seem to fit for me.
⚠️Trauma from reality TV show filming from growing up. Side character has a teenage pregnancy
I loved Evie and Fraser's story!
They had a unique take on the brothers best friend, friends to lovers romance and fake dating that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Also YAY for communication and for having healthy relationship values and examples in this book. I ADORED that part and it just made me love these characters even more.
Evie and Fraser are funny and I love the way Evie's mind works and their banter.
It was fun having the depths of their past and struggles unfold throughout the story. I'm super invested in our side characters and can't wait to to read the next book in the series!
I want the fast talking five to have their love stories!!
💋Just kissing & discussions about being virgins (I felt like it was classy done but talked about quite a bit)
💋*A side character references dressing their husband up in hockey gear and how it's helped spice things up in their love life. Nothing else is described. This kinda brought down the star rating for me as it didn't really fit with the rest of the story
🤬 7 uses of d*** - also brought down the star rating for me as neither character seemed to have a personality that would swear even if the words were said internally in their mind. It just didn't seem to fit for me.
⚠️Trauma from reality TV show filming from growing up. Side character has a teenage pregnancy
April 27, 2024
Cute romance, great characters & hockey! I really loved the relationship between the 2 main characters. They had great chemistry and fantastic banter. Their group of family/friends were a joy to read as well.
What to expect:
🏒Fake dating
🏒Brothers best friend
🏒Hockey
🏒Closed door
Spoiler below……..
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Spoiler - the only part I didn’t like was the virginity trope. I may just be getting old but it is one of my least favorite tropes. I also really wish Evie would have explored becoming a sports reporter when she was struggling with ratings. She would have been PERFECT for it.
What to expect:
🏒Fake dating
🏒Brothers best friend
🏒Hockey
🏒Closed door
Spoiler below……..
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X
X
X
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Spoiler - the only part I didn’t like was the virginity trope. I may just be getting old but it is one of my least favorite tropes. I also really wish Evie would have explored becoming a sports reporter when she was struggling with ratings. She would have been PERFECT for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2024
“I do not still have a crush on Fraser. My feelings for him are where I left my bangs, my anxiety about failing algebra, and my love of bracelet–making. In. The. Past.”
This debut novel was an absolute delight! I love a story with sharp and witty banter, and this one excelled at it. There were SO many lines that had me smiling and laughing out loud. And so many swoony moments that gave me heart eyes.
Fraser’s a reclusive hockey player who’s been asked by his best friend to accompany his sister Evie to her ex’s wedding.
Evie was dumped on live tv by her ex, so having a rich, handsome hockey star take her to the wedding would be some sweet revenge.
Fraser and Evie have had a crush on each other since high school, but he was a senior and she was a sophomore, and the fact that she was Fraser’s best friend’s little sister kept him from doing anything about it.
On top of that Fraser‘s family abruptly moves and he leaves without even saying goodbye. Seven years later, Fraser and Evie have a chance to discover what happened all those years ago, and to rekindle old feelings.
What I loved:
Hockey romance
High school crush
Brother’s best friend
Fake dating
Food obsessions
Small town
Yellow roses
Wow moments
Closed door
Disability Rep
Grand gestures
Boy obsessed
The Fake Out Flex is a super fun read, with excellent writing and pacing, and exceptionally well drawn characters. I’m excited for some of the characters in this book to get their own story!
Many thanks to the author for an ARC!
This debut novel was an absolute delight! I love a story with sharp and witty banter, and this one excelled at it. There were SO many lines that had me smiling and laughing out loud. And so many swoony moments that gave me heart eyes.
Fraser’s a reclusive hockey player who’s been asked by his best friend to accompany his sister Evie to her ex’s wedding.
Evie was dumped on live tv by her ex, so having a rich, handsome hockey star take her to the wedding would be some sweet revenge.
Fraser and Evie have had a crush on each other since high school, but he was a senior and she was a sophomore, and the fact that she was Fraser’s best friend’s little sister kept him from doing anything about it.
On top of that Fraser‘s family abruptly moves and he leaves without even saying goodbye. Seven years later, Fraser and Evie have a chance to discover what happened all those years ago, and to rekindle old feelings.
What I loved:
Hockey romance
High school crush
Brother’s best friend
Fake dating
Food obsessions
Small town
Yellow roses
Wow moments
Closed door
Disability Rep
Grand gestures
Boy obsessed
The Fake Out Flex is a super fun read, with excellent writing and pacing, and exceptionally well drawn characters. I’m excited for some of the characters in this book to get their own story!
Many thanks to the author for an ARC!
May 6, 2024
Nothing quite like fake dating your best friend's little sister, whom you've never stopped loving since high school. This closed-door sports romance was just what I needed for a pick-me-up, especially with a MMC like Fraser. 😊
Fraser is literally a MAN. He knows what he wants, and he wants it BAD‼️ He does everything possible to impress Evie, like giving her flowers every time he sees her. 🌹
This book had me laughing out loud so many times; Evie's personality is hilarious and so so relatable, making it a fast read. And let's talk about the chemistry between Fraser and Evie - they have history, and by history, I mean a sneaky, no-one-knows-about-it history that makes you love them even more. 💕
I recommend this book to anyone who loves fake dating, hockey, and clean romance.
Thank you, Ash Kelly, for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. 📚🌟
Fav Quote
"A real man would never break up with you in the first place, Evie. A real man would be smart enough to realize what a precious gift it is to be with you. A real man would do whatever he could to keep you happy and safe and would always keep two shovels in his car for any unexpected no-questions-asked moments that might arise."
Tropes
🏒Closed-door romance
🏒Brother's best friend
🏒Sports Romance - Hockey
🏒Fake dating
🏒High School Crush
Micro Tropes
💗 Spoils her in flowers
💗 Buys her favorite foods
💗 Makes her feel better
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆. post reading ⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
she was cute, she was fluffy and she was givin’
It’s a close door romance that was so darn cute to see Evie and Fraser story unfold 🥹!
Fraser is literally a MAN. He knows what he wants, and he wants it BAD‼️ He does everything possible to impress Evie, like giving her flowers every time he sees her. 🌹
This book had me laughing out loud so many times; Evie's personality is hilarious and so so relatable, making it a fast read. And let's talk about the chemistry between Fraser and Evie - they have history, and by history, I mean a sneaky, no-one-knows-about-it history that makes you love them even more. 💕
I recommend this book to anyone who loves fake dating, hockey, and clean romance.
Thank you, Ash Kelly, for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. 📚🌟
Fav Quote
"A real man would never break up with you in the first place, Evie. A real man would be smart enough to realize what a precious gift it is to be with you. A real man would do whatever he could to keep you happy and safe and would always keep two shovels in his car for any unexpected no-questions-asked moments that might arise."
Tropes
🏒Closed-door romance
🏒Brother's best friend
🏒Sports Romance - Hockey
🏒Fake dating
🏒High School Crush
Micro Tropes
💗 Spoils her in flowers
💗 Buys her favorite foods
💗 Makes her feel better
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆. post reading ⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
she was cute, she was fluffy and she was givin’
It’s a close door romance that was so darn cute to see Evie and Fraser story unfold 🥹!
May 11, 2024
I like this book so much! This New Adult romcom had me laughing out loud so many times. I adore the banter between Evie and her brother. Actually, I really like the banter Evie has with everyone. I just like Evie. And don't even get me started on Fraser! I love the way the author is normalizing waiting until marriage. And it isn't even because the characters are Christians, but because they want that commitment, that experience, with that one special person.
This book started off a little slow, and there was some bathroom humor in it. Literally. Totally relatable, but not my favorite thing. But I would read this again, for sure.
And yeah. I definitely need to know about Hannah and Culver.
*Caveat: this is not Christian fiction, and there is a little cussing and a couple instances of the Lord's name taken in vain.*
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
This book started off a little slow, and there was some bathroom humor in it. Literally. Totally relatable, but not my favorite thing. But I would read this again, for sure.
And yeah. I definitely need to know about Hannah and Culver.
*Caveat: this is not Christian fiction, and there is a little cussing and a couple instances of the Lord's name taken in vain.*
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
May 13, 2024
This started out cute but then fizzled for me. I loved both Evie and Fraser but found some of the things that happened in the book a little too farfetched. I get not wanting to live your life in the spotlight, especially after being on reality TV for so long but the reason pulling the plug so abruptly didn’t make sense; shows like Teen Mom had already existed at that time. I enjoyed the banter between them and the circle of friends Evie has surrounded herself with. Overall, an entertaining read with loveable characters and an adorable love story.
I received a copy from the author for an honest review.
I received a copy from the author for an honest review.
May 29, 2024
2.5/5 stars
I didn’t quite gel with this book.
It had a lot of the things I love in a romance book:
- Hockey
- Brothers Best Friend
- “he has always loved her”
- Fake dating
I like the flashbacks, it was sweet to see Fraser’s feelings develop and to see how the crush started. It was also nice to build a foundation and highlight that the attraction wasn’t just his best friends sister “getting hot”. The book was genuinely quite funny! I laughed out loud at some moments. Other times I cringed a little haha! But overall it was lighthearted!
However something just didn’t click! I felt I had to keep putting down as my attention wasn’t drawn to it. It had a strange emphasis on virginity and it was strange that there was a shame element associated with it. I also found that the chapters felt too long, often repeating things or having things that didn’t really add to the story. I found myself skim reading to get to the point. The “big secrets” didn’t read well, I don’t think they themselves are bad but the way they were worded felt like there was, once again, an element of shame associated.
It was a sweet ending! And it was nice to see a hockey player MMC displayed differently to a lot of others in the romance category! Yet He was still fiercely protective of Evie! This was a sweet debut by Ash! I’m not opposed to reading more of her stuff!
I didn’t quite gel with this book.
It had a lot of the things I love in a romance book:
- Hockey
- Brothers Best Friend
- “he has always loved her”
- Fake dating
I like the flashbacks, it was sweet to see Fraser’s feelings develop and to see how the crush started. It was also nice to build a foundation and highlight that the attraction wasn’t just his best friends sister “getting hot”. The book was genuinely quite funny! I laughed out loud at some moments. Other times I cringed a little haha! But overall it was lighthearted!
However something just didn’t click! I felt I had to keep putting down as my attention wasn’t drawn to it. It had a strange emphasis on virginity and it was strange that there was a shame element associated with it. I also found that the chapters felt too long, often repeating things or having things that didn’t really add to the story. I found myself skim reading to get to the point. The “big secrets” didn’t read well, I don’t think they themselves are bad but the way they were worded felt like there was, once again, an element of shame associated.
It was a sweet ending! And it was nice to see a hockey player MMC displayed differently to a lot of others in the romance category! Yet He was still fiercely protective of Evie! This was a sweet debut by Ash! I’m not opposed to reading more of her stuff!
May 13, 2024
I am a sucker for a hockey romance! Make it a small town hockey romance and I am completely sold!
Imagine getting yellow roses every time your childhood crush (who is now an adult pro hockey player) sees you because he remembers that they were your favourite! Swoooon!
Following a very public and very humiliating breakup, Evie insists on attending her ex’s wedding to prove just how fine and over it she is. Her meddling older brother could not in good conscious let Evie go alone and so he enlists his best friend (and Evie’s highschool crush) Fraser to be Evie’s wedding date. One sneaky picture and newspaper article later, Evie finds herself in the public eye once again and this time, as Frasers fake girlfriend – what could possibly go wrong.
Fraser and Evie were both loveable main characters who brought all the flirt and banter you need. It was also a refreshing take on closed door romance which really made the story melt my heart.
I am so impressed by this debut novel and will definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for book 2 – The Best Friend Power Play.
Thank you to Ash Kelly for gifting me an ARC copy of this sweet romance!
Releases today – 15 May 2024!
Imagine getting yellow roses every time your childhood crush (who is now an adult pro hockey player) sees you because he remembers that they were your favourite! Swoooon!
Following a very public and very humiliating breakup, Evie insists on attending her ex’s wedding to prove just how fine and over it she is. Her meddling older brother could not in good conscious let Evie go alone and so he enlists his best friend (and Evie’s highschool crush) Fraser to be Evie’s wedding date. One sneaky picture and newspaper article later, Evie finds herself in the public eye once again and this time, as Frasers fake girlfriend – what could possibly go wrong.
Fraser and Evie were both loveable main characters who brought all the flirt and banter you need. It was also a refreshing take on closed door romance which really made the story melt my heart.
I am so impressed by this debut novel and will definitely be keeping my eyes peeled for book 2 – The Best Friend Power Play.
Thank you to Ash Kelly for gifting me an ARC copy of this sweet romance!
Releases today – 15 May 2024!
May 2, 2024
Genre: sports romance
Content: makeouts, mild language, discussions about being virgins
This is Ash Kelly’s debut novel and it’s so cute! Fraser and Evie have known each other for a LONG time, and they’ve both been harboring feelings for a long time too. Fraser’s best friend & Evie’s brother, Levi, sets them up…and it ends up turning into a fake dating (not so fake actually) situation.
Things I Enjoyed:
-the fast-talking four/five friendship
-Levi & Evie’s text conversations 😂
-Fraser’s lucky bracelet
-truth fries
-meeting Oakey
-the ending scene setting up for the next book!
This one releases on May 15th! You’ll definitely want to check it out!
Quotes I Loved:
😂 “I’m not super great at this, but I wanted to make sure you’re okay with the kissing since I’m pretty sure it was never part of the rules.” “Actually, I’ve scoured the How to Fake Date Your Best Friend’s Sister rulebook, and there’s no mention of real kissing.” “But did you check the Guide to Fake Dating Your Brother’s Best Friend companion guide?”
😍”You’re the only person I’ve ever opened up to like this, Evie.”
🥰”There’s nothing wrong with having a healthy respect-slash-fear of your girlfriend’s mother.”
Evie flashes me a dazzling smile.
“Say the second-to-last word in the previous sentence again. Non-possessive form.”
I lower my voice to just above a whisper and trace my fingers along her neck. “Girlfriend.”
Evie’s eyes flutter to a close.
I brush my fingers along her jaw.
“Girlfriend.”
Around her ear. “Girlfriend.’
Across her soft cheek. “Girlfriend.’ She’s not the only one who likes the sound of the word. I do, too.
❤️ “I want to share the big moments of life with you, but also all the small, ordinary, even mundane ones, too.” It takes me a moment to catch the reference. ‘’’Sweet Nothing,’’ I whisper, holding his gaze, remembering our dance at the beach.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
Content: makeouts, mild language, discussions about being virgins
This is Ash Kelly’s debut novel and it’s so cute! Fraser and Evie have known each other for a LONG time, and they’ve both been harboring feelings for a long time too. Fraser’s best friend & Evie’s brother, Levi, sets them up…and it ends up turning into a fake dating (not so fake actually) situation.
Things I Enjoyed:
-the fast-talking four/five friendship
-Levi & Evie’s text conversations 😂
-Fraser’s lucky bracelet
-truth fries
-meeting Oakey
-the ending scene setting up for the next book!
This one releases on May 15th! You’ll definitely want to check it out!
Quotes I Loved:
😂 “I’m not super great at this, but I wanted to make sure you’re okay with the kissing since I’m pretty sure it was never part of the rules.” “Actually, I’ve scoured the How to Fake Date Your Best Friend’s Sister rulebook, and there’s no mention of real kissing.” “But did you check the Guide to Fake Dating Your Brother’s Best Friend companion guide?”
😍”You’re the only person I’ve ever opened up to like this, Evie.”
🥰”There’s nothing wrong with having a healthy respect-slash-fear of your girlfriend’s mother.”
Evie flashes me a dazzling smile.
“Say the second-to-last word in the previous sentence again. Non-possessive form.”
I lower my voice to just above a whisper and trace my fingers along her neck. “Girlfriend.”
Evie’s eyes flutter to a close.
I brush my fingers along her jaw.
“Girlfriend.”
Around her ear. “Girlfriend.’
Across her soft cheek. “Girlfriend.’ She’s not the only one who likes the sound of the word. I do, too.
❤️ “I want to share the big moments of life with you, but also all the small, ordinary, even mundane ones, too.” It takes me a moment to catch the reference. ‘’’Sweet Nothing,’’ I whisper, holding his gaze, remembering our dance at the beach.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
May 7, 2024
The Fake Out Flex by Ash Kelly
The beach 🏝️
The kiss that almost was 😚
Yellow roses 💐
Truth fries 🍟
Floor talks 🫠
Have you ever read a book and the banter was just delicious!? There were so many times that I wanted to take the whole conversation and display it for the world, it was so cute!
I loved the looks back that Ash shared with the readers, to help build the back story between Evie and Fraser. They grew up as neighbors and formed a friendship one night when Fraser went to hang out with Evie’s brother, Levi. Over time they became close, but nothing more than friends.
They both have rough dating histories, and someone decides to play match maker, having seen both sides of their friendship. What follows is a fake dating relationship at first, but turns into something so much more.
The book was rather long, but had a lot of banter and conversing throughout. My favorite parts were the banter and the truth fries. I’m a fries girl, they go straight to my heart!
Content: mild swearing
Thank you, Ash for an early copy!
The beach 🏝️
The kiss that almost was 😚
Yellow roses 💐
Truth fries 🍟
Floor talks 🫠
Have you ever read a book and the banter was just delicious!? There were so many times that I wanted to take the whole conversation and display it for the world, it was so cute!
I loved the looks back that Ash shared with the readers, to help build the back story between Evie and Fraser. They grew up as neighbors and formed a friendship one night when Fraser went to hang out with Evie’s brother, Levi. Over time they became close, but nothing more than friends.
They both have rough dating histories, and someone decides to play match maker, having seen both sides of their friendship. What follows is a fake dating relationship at first, but turns into something so much more.
The book was rather long, but had a lot of banter and conversing throughout. My favorite parts were the banter and the truth fries. I’m a fries girl, they go straight to my heart!
Content: mild swearing
Thank you, Ash for an early copy!
April 28, 2024
This is a debut? What? Wow! Wow! Wow! Be still my heart!!
I freaking adored this book so much! It can be hard to read romance novels about characters who are younger than me, or at least the age difference, such as this story. I'm almost 13 years older than these characters, but I loved this book so much!
I read every kind of romance from squeaky clean and closed door to the spicest of spice and wide open doors. This book is clean and you know what? That's what I loved most about it. My teenage nieces love romances, and it's hard for me to recommend them books because I do read so much spice. This is one book that I would have zero problem handing either of them. We need more romance novels like this, and thankfully, Ash Kelly has more planned for this series. I can't wait to read them!
Evie and Fraser are friends to lovers who are the real deal and so swoony for one another. It was a nostalgic feel for me reading their love story. It brought back all those feelings of young love and growing together with your forever person! There is so much more to this story than just romance. It's about finding out who you are, what you want in life, following your dreams and fighting to make them a reality, it's about life not always turning out the way we thought it would, but pivoting and making it even better than before. It's about sibling relationships, family, friends, protecting those you love, etc. There's just so much goodness wrapped up in these pages! All the stars, Ash, all the stars!
Thank you, Ash Kelly, for allowing me to read this incredible love story as an ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
I freaking adored this book so much! It can be hard to read romance novels about characters who are younger than me, or at least the age difference, such as this story. I'm almost 13 years older than these characters, but I loved this book so much!
I read every kind of romance from squeaky clean and closed door to the spicest of spice and wide open doors. This book is clean and you know what? That's what I loved most about it. My teenage nieces love romances, and it's hard for me to recommend them books because I do read so much spice. This is one book that I would have zero problem handing either of them. We need more romance novels like this, and thankfully, Ash Kelly has more planned for this series. I can't wait to read them!
Evie and Fraser are friends to lovers who are the real deal and so swoony for one another. It was a nostalgic feel for me reading their love story. It brought back all those feelings of young love and growing together with your forever person! There is so much more to this story than just romance. It's about finding out who you are, what you want in life, following your dreams and fighting to make them a reality, it's about life not always turning out the way we thought it would, but pivoting and making it even better than before. It's about sibling relationships, family, friends, protecting those you love, etc. There's just so much goodness wrapped up in these pages! All the stars, Ash, all the stars!
Thank you, Ash Kelly, for allowing me to read this incredible love story as an ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
May 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
This was such a fun/adorable read. I loved the banter throughout the whole book. Not only did I love our two main characters, Fraser and Evie, but I loved all the side characters as well. I need more of the “fast talking five”. I’m hoping they all get their own books!
I loved the connection between Fraser and Evie. They were relationship goals 🙌🏻 with so many grand gestures, but so many sweet, small ones too. My cheeks literally hurt from smiling so much while reading this.
Also loved the truth fries! 🍟
Spoiler
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X
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X
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X
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X
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My only complaint (and this is just a personal preference) was that it was virginity over load. I have no problems with virginity and I understand it’s “closed door”, but these doors were all tightly sealed and locked with no key. I do love closed door romances as well as spicy ones (I don’t discriminate). It was just a little too much with EVERY ONE of the main characters being a virgin. She’s a virgin, he’s a virgin, all her fast talking five friends are virgins, both sets of parents were virgins when they married . It’s like we somehow stumbled upon the only town where every one in their mid to late 20’s are virgins. I think it took away a little from being relatable or believable. Still really enjoyed and loved the story.
Read if you like:
Brothers best friend
High school crush
Fake dating
Hockey romance
Closed door romance
Second Chance romance
This was such a fun/adorable read. I loved the banter throughout the whole book. Not only did I love our two main characters, Fraser and Evie, but I loved all the side characters as well. I need more of the “fast talking five”. I’m hoping they all get their own books!
I loved the connection between Fraser and Evie. They were relationship goals 🙌🏻 with so many grand gestures, but so many sweet, small ones too. My cheeks literally hurt from smiling so much while reading this.
Also loved the truth fries! 🍟
Spoiler
.
X
.
X
.
X
.
X
.
My only complaint (and this is just a personal preference) was that it was virginity over load. I have no problems with virginity and I understand it’s “closed door”, but these doors were all tightly sealed and locked with no key. I do love closed door romances as well as spicy ones (I don’t discriminate). It was just a little too much with EVERY ONE of the main characters being a virgin. She’s a virgin, he’s a virgin, all her fast talking five friends are virgins, both sets of parents were virgins when they married . It’s like we somehow stumbled upon the only town where every one in their mid to late 20’s are virgins. I think it took away a little from being relatable or believable. Still really enjoyed and loved the story.
Read if you like:
Brothers best friend
High school crush
Fake dating
Hockey romance
Closed door romance
Second Chance romance
May 15, 2024
Genre: Romance
Tropes: High School Crush • Small Town • Fake Dating • Brother's Best Friend • Dual POV • Dual Timeline • It's Always Been You • Sports Romance • Hockey Romance • Po Hockey Romance • Closed Door Spice
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
I need more!!!
This book was an absolute delight to read. I loved it! As someone who prefers her romance books (especially hockey romance) to be spicy, I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this closed door spice read.
I knew right from the first chapter that I was going to like this book. While the banter was hard to follow at times, the back and forth witty comments had me cracking up. I found myself laughing out loud and grinning like a fool while reading this book.
Fraser and Evie's history is so heartwarming. I felt like I was truly swooning over the 2 of them. I wasn't sure where this was going and absolutely loved the ending.
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone looking to dip their toe into the world of Hockey Romance!
A big thank you to Ash for allowing me to be a part of your ARC Team for your debut novel. I am truly honored 🩷
Tropes: High School Crush • Small Town • Fake Dating • Brother's Best Friend • Dual POV • Dual Timeline • It's Always Been You • Sports Romance • Hockey Romance • Po Hockey Romance • Closed Door Spice
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
I need more!!!
This book was an absolute delight to read. I loved it! As someone who prefers her romance books (especially hockey romance) to be spicy, I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this closed door spice read.
I knew right from the first chapter that I was going to like this book. While the banter was hard to follow at times, the back and forth witty comments had me cracking up. I found myself laughing out loud and grinning like a fool while reading this book.
Fraser and Evie's history is so heartwarming. I felt like I was truly swooning over the 2 of them. I wasn't sure where this was going and absolutely loved the ending.
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone looking to dip their toe into the world of Hockey Romance!
A big thank you to Ash for allowing me to be a part of your ARC Team for your debut novel. I am truly honored 🩷
May 4, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and the author for an early copy. All thoughts are my own.
I’m a huge fan of hockey and a huge fan of the fake dating trope so I knew I’d like this book.
Good things:
I really enjoyed the plot. I thought the characters were likable and fun. The banter between the two main characters was hilarious and the brother meddling was fantastic.
Not so good things:
I didn’t like how they spoke sometimes and what I mean by that is that it seemed somewhat childish for adults. I also felt like maybe the story was too short and needed more happening.
All in all; I did enjoy the book. It was fast pace, cute, and a good time. I laughed out loud so many times. This is a closed door romance. I would recommend this to probably everyone.
Tropes:
-brother’s bestfriend
-fake dating
-high school crush
-he fell first
-closed door
-hockey
-funny banter
3.5 rounded to 4!
I’m a huge fan of hockey and a huge fan of the fake dating trope so I knew I’d like this book.
Good things:
I really enjoyed the plot. I thought the characters were likable and fun. The banter between the two main characters was hilarious and the brother meddling was fantastic.
Not so good things:
I didn’t like how they spoke sometimes and what I mean by that is that it seemed somewhat childish for adults. I also felt like maybe the story was too short and needed more happening.
All in all; I did enjoy the book. It was fast pace, cute, and a good time. I laughed out loud so many times. This is a closed door romance. I would recommend this to probably everyone.
Tropes:
-brother’s bestfriend
-fake dating
-high school crush
-he fell first
-closed door
-hockey
-funny banter
3.5 rounded to 4!
May 12, 2024
“Sports romance, particularly hockey romance, is huge at the moment. For the longest time I didn't understand why." She drops her gaze again. "But I do now."”
I chuckled at this quote given this was completely accurate for me. I get it now though. Two in a row for me and they are both wins. And I’m always excited to read debut novels, so that made this an even bigger win. This one is a fake dating trope which did make me nervous because it’s not one of my favorites, but I really liked the way this one was done.
I will definitely be looking out for what else Ash Kelly writes in the future.
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Read if you like:
(These came straight from the author!)
Pro hockey sports romance
Fake dating
Brother's best friend
High school crush
Boy-obsessed
Cozy small-town feels
Chosen family
Closed door romance
I chuckled at this quote given this was completely accurate for me. I get it now though. Two in a row for me and they are both wins. And I’m always excited to read debut novels, so that made this an even bigger win. This one is a fake dating trope which did make me nervous because it’s not one of my favorites, but I really liked the way this one was done.
I will definitely be looking out for what else Ash Kelly writes in the future.
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Read if you like:
(These came straight from the author!)
Pro hockey sports romance
Fake dating
Brother's best friend
High school crush
Boy-obsessed
Cozy small-town feels
Chosen family
Closed door romance
May 9, 2024
The Fake Out Flex will have you laughing and crying while rooting for the main characters!!The second Chance Romance between Evie and Fraser was so well done. They both had a crush on each other since high school but neither one knew about it!
Evie's brother Levi sets Fraser up as Evie's date to her Ex's wedding. Feelings rekindle and escalate from there. The banter between Evie and Fraser made me laugh. The truth fries between them and the phone chats made their relationship even stronger.
I loved that the FMC had 4 best friends and had a chat group going at all times.
Points for the Taylor Swift References!
I loved that he kept and wore the bracelet that Evie gave him when they were younger.
The only part that I didn't find relatable is that both of the main characters were still virgins.
The Epilogue had me crying it was so perfect! I especially loved how it ended with them finding their friends tipsy and giggling!
Read if you love:
- Hockey Romance
-Fake Dating
-Second Chance Romance
-Brothers Best Friend
-High School Crush
-Closed Door
Evie's brother Levi sets Fraser up as Evie's date to her Ex's wedding. Feelings rekindle and escalate from there. The banter between Evie and Fraser made me laugh. The truth fries between them and the phone chats made their relationship even stronger.
I loved that the FMC had 4 best friends and had a chat group going at all times.
Points for the Taylor Swift References!
I loved that he kept and wore the bracelet that Evie gave him when they were younger.
The only part that I didn't find relatable is that both of the main characters were still virgins.
The Epilogue had me crying it was so perfect! I especially loved how it ended with them finding their friends tipsy and giggling!
Read if you love:
- Hockey Romance
-Fake Dating
-Second Chance Romance
-Brothers Best Friend
-High School Crush
-Closed Door
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
I will never say no to a sports romance and this one was achingly funny and genuine. This book has second chance romance, fake dating, brothers best friend, high school crush, and is a hockey romance.
Fraser is the perfect gentlemen, respects all of Evie’s wishes and helps her realise what she’s capable of. Plus he is absolutely gone for her.
I love books with strong girl relationships and Evie has such a supportive friendship group. I am so excited to read more about them in their own books.
The second chance romance was done extremely well and there was the opportunity for alot of miscommunication but Fraser and Evie set out their own rules to avoid this.
Overall, this book was an extremely fluffy, light and happy romance which is just what you need sometimes. Highly recommend to anyone that enjoys fluffy romcoms. Thank you to @ashkellyauthor for an ARC copy in exchange for a review.
Fraser is the perfect gentlemen, respects all of Evie’s wishes and helps her realise what she’s capable of. Plus he is absolutely gone for her.
I love books with strong girl relationships and Evie has such a supportive friendship group. I am so excited to read more about them in their own books.
The second chance romance was done extremely well and there was the opportunity for alot of miscommunication but Fraser and Evie set out their own rules to avoid this.
Overall, this book was an extremely fluffy, light and happy romance which is just what you need sometimes. Highly recommend to anyone that enjoys fluffy romcoms. Thank you to @ashkellyauthor for an ARC copy in exchange for a review.
May 13, 2024
This book takes off fast! The pacing starts to slow down about 60% through and allows you to start savoring each moment. I truly enjoyed "watching" Evie (FMC) banter with her brother, Levi, and her group of "fast-talking" friends.
One of the most refreshing aspects to this romance was that BOTH Evie and Fraser (MMC) had parents that modeled a healthy marriage example, sparking a desire in both to "wait and find the one."
If you are looking for a hockey romance that has:
*kisses only
*late night chat sessions
*"truth fries"
*holy moly grand gestures
*supportive, funny girl squad
*hits all the "romance novel" expectations
This book is for you!
One of the most refreshing aspects to this romance was that BOTH Evie and Fraser (MMC) had parents that modeled a healthy marriage example, sparking a desire in both to "wait and find the one."
If you are looking for a hockey romance that has:
*kisses only
*late night chat sessions
*"truth fries"
*holy moly grand gestures
*supportive, funny girl squad
*hits all the "romance novel" expectations
This book is for you!
April 28, 2024
Ok, I’m definitely in my hockey romance era, so when I was given the chance to read this ARC, I couldn’t say no!
I’m so glad I said yes, this was such a fun book with so many of my favorite tropes! Second chance romance, boy next door, fake dating, grumpy sunshine, so much swooning! Eve and Fraser are so adorable together, their families are perfection, and their history is fraught with complications. I really enjoyed seeing them push through their struggles, work through all the craziness, and come out on the other side. They have some really great friends as well, so I’m looking forward to other books in this sweet romance series.
I’m so glad I said yes, this was such a fun book with so many of my favorite tropes! Second chance romance, boy next door, fake dating, grumpy sunshine, so much swooning! Eve and Fraser are so adorable together, their families are perfection, and their history is fraught with complications. I really enjoyed seeing them push through their struggles, work through all the craziness, and come out on the other side. They have some really great friends as well, so I’m looking forward to other books in this sweet romance series.
July 10, 2024
This is a fun debut and I liked the way the author blended romance, humor, and heartwarming moments in a sweet sports romcom. Evie and Fraser start out fake dating to her ex's wedding, but they don't know they've crushed on each other since high school. The chemistry between Evie and Fraser is undeniable, and their interactions are filled with witty banter and heartfelt moments.
Things I loved:
* Evie stress eating cheese
* Truth fries
* The Fast-Talking Four
* Cinnamon roll main character
* Talking on the phone instead of texting
* The good luck bracelet
* The flashbacks
Fraser may be tough on the ice but off the rink he is such a sweetheart! I love how he cared about Evie and had a hard time hiding it. I appreciated that both characters wanted to wait until marriage for s3x and that Evie had a group of friends who supported each other in keeping true to themselves. I really enjoyed this childhood friends to more, small-town romance and can't believe it was a debut novel.
I received a complimentary ebook from the author. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Things I loved:
* Evie stress eating cheese
* Truth fries
* The Fast-Talking Four
* Cinnamon roll main character
* Talking on the phone instead of texting
* The good luck bracelet
* The flashbacks
Fraser may be tough on the ice but off the rink he is such a sweetheart! I love how he cared about Evie and had a hard time hiding it. I appreciated that both characters wanted to wait until marriage for s3x and that Evie had a group of friends who supported each other in keeping true to themselves. I really enjoyed this childhood friends to more, small-town romance and can't believe it was a debut novel.
I received a complimentary ebook from the author. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
October 16, 2024
I’m gonna do something I don’t normally do…. but I’m going to DNF. I just couldn’t get into it and the characters weren’t that great, just not it. And since I did read at least half I’m counting it as a book read
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