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Fa-La-La-La Faking It: A Fake Dating Christmas Romance
It’s beginning to look a lot like kiss…er…Christmas!
Matchmaking services as a Christmas gift? No thank you! It’s bad enough that, to save her grandmother's feelings, Adaline Bishop fibs and says she’s seeing someone. It’s worse when Jace Martin, her grade school crush turned nemesis, volunteers that he’s the someone. Now Adaline will have to fake it until Jace’s flannel-shirted, piney-scented goodness leaves town in a couple of weeks.
Jace would like to make up for his past transgressions and for his elderly uncle’s meaner-than-the-grinch behavior during Adaline’s therapy dog visits. In the spirit of peace and goodwill toward all, Jace will happily be her fake boyfriend. It’s just that what began as a lie as big as Texas is starting to feel like the magic of a Christmas wish come true.
From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
A Comfort Paws Romance
Book 1: Dog Days of Summer
Book 2: Fa-La-La-La Faking It
Matchmaking services as a Christmas gift? No thank you! It’s bad enough that, to save her grandmother's feelings, Adaline Bishop fibs and says she’s seeing someone. It’s worse when Jace Martin, her grade school crush turned nemesis, volunteers that he’s the someone. Now Adaline will have to fake it until Jace’s flannel-shirted, piney-scented goodness leaves town in a couple of weeks.
Jace would like to make up for his past transgressions and for his elderly uncle’s meaner-than-the-grinch behavior during Adaline’s therapy dog visits. In the spirit of peace and goodwill toward all, Jace will happily be her fake boyfriend. It’s just that what began as a lie as big as Texas is starting to feel like the magic of a Christmas wish come true.
From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
A Comfort Paws Romance
Book 1: Dog Days of Summer
Book 2: Fa-La-La-La Faking It
272 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published October 22, 2024
16 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Teri Wilson
205 books1,631 followersNew York Times bestselling author Teri Wilson writes heartwarming contemporary romance with a touch of whimsy. Four of Teri's books have been adapted into Hallmark Channel Original Movies, including UNLEASHING MR. DARCY (plus its sequel MARRYING MR. DARCY), ROYAL-ISH, based on her book ONCE UPON A ROYAL SUMMER, THE ART OF US and NORTHERN LIGHTS OF CHRISTMAS, based on her book SLEIGH BELL SWEETHEARTS. She is also a recipient of the prestigious RITA Award for excellence in romantic fiction and a 2022 inductee into the San Antonio Women's Hall of Fame.
When she’s not writing, Teri enjoys visiting schools and health care facilities with her Cavalier King Charles spaniel Charm, a registered therapy dog and reading education assistance dog. Teri also loves pretty dresses, cupcakes, going to the ballet and following the British royal family. Visit her at www.teriwilson.net or on Instagram @teriwilsonauthor.
When she’s not writing, Teri enjoys visiting schools and health care facilities with her Cavalier King Charles spaniel Charm, a registered therapy dog and reading education assistance dog. Teri also loves pretty dresses, cupcakes, going to the ballet and following the British royal family. Visit her at www.teriwilson.net or on Instagram @teriwilsonauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 23, 2024
The perfect Christmas romance! Has all the elements to make you say awwwweee! Adaline whose first love is baking, family, her dog in training to be a therapy dog. Along with her three BBFs and their therapy dogs. Trying to launch a training program and finding a place is Adaline main mission, well one of any. When her 5th grade nemesis spoils her fundraising plans she is trying to figure out her next move. Jace feels bad that he ruins the efforts of Adaline and offers her to run a hot chocolate stand at his Christmas tree lot. Their paths cross at the nursing home where Jace Uncle Gus is in extended care and Adaline Grandma is there also.
The sparks still sizzles, but they do have issues to overcome. A sweet Christmas romance that has all the Hallmarks markings.
The sparks still sizzles, but they do have issues to overcome. A sweet Christmas romance that has all the Hallmarks markings.
September 9, 2024
This was a cute holiday Hallmark type read and had all the warm fuzzy feelings that you are looking for in a holiday book. Cute dogs, a bakery and a Christmas tree farmer! While it was on the shorter side, the story felt like it moved pretty fast from zero to 100 and that was a bit challenging for me, but all in all it gave off all the vibes I was looking for out of a holiday romance.
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October 2, 2024Contemporary Romance
Miniseries
Comfort Paws (Book #3)
Miniseries
Comfort Paws (Book #3)
October 29, 2024
I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review by the publisher via NetGalley.
Actual rating is closer to 3.5, but I rounded up because this book is definitely better than 3 stars.
Potential triggers, though none are in great detail: elementary school bullying, death of a loved one x2, caring for elderly person with apparent dementia.
Spice level: kissing only, so zero
Noted tropes: enemies to lovers, fake dating, .
The short review:
A fun, but busy Hallmark movie in book form.
The long review:
Though obviously part of a series, Fa-La-La-La-Faking is perfectly able to stand on its own. It does make me want to go out of find the other two books in the series though. I am interested in how Comfort Paws got started.
Adaline Bishop is the local baker and proud owner of Cherry on Top bakery, where she sells all kinds of sweet confections. Twice a week, she takes her young dog, Fuzzy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, to the local seniors home as part of the dog volunteer group, Comfort Paws. Adaline and her friends are the proud founders of this dog therapy volunteer group and are hoping to continue growing the organization via fundraising to get a space to train more people and dogs. As part of their twice a week visits includes a grumpy, sick old man named Mr. Gus Martin. It turns out Gus’s nephew is back in town to spend time with his uncle knowing that Gus is terminally ill. This nephew is none other than Jace—a boy she had a crush on in elementary and the same boy who used to torment her.
So I only had two rather minor issues with this book, and I am going to start with them to get it out of the way. First issue being that teasing is fine so long as it's a genuinely misguided attempt to display affection. Second issue being the amount of 0ther, not actually necessary, stuff going on in the book.
One) the use of “he only teased you because he liked you” that is Jace teasing Adaline in grade 5.
While what Jace did isn’t quite to the level of being a full-blown bully, giving people unflattering nicknames they hate, teasing them, and then asking them to the dance only to tell all your friends that you don’t like her at all, an outright lie about it we come to learn, is kind of a douche-y start as a romantic plotline. Yes they were children and sure, he’s better now, but Adaline was still holding onto that hurt as an adult, so it obviously made a strong impression on her. The idea that she can hold that hurt and still like a person is baffling to me, personally. He was mean and said mean things behind her back, but she still crushed on him after hearing some of it? Interesting.
Two) the number of other things going on at the same time.
While somewhat realistic of some people’s real lives, felt like a lot of filler for the pages in the book. Most books having a heroine fall in love while running a bakery while also volunteering twice a week with her dog and that would be the full story. This one, however, brings in a bunch of subplots. So, you have Jace and his tree lot interfering with Adaline’s fundraiser as a plot device to bring everyone together, which is fine. This gives you hot and heavy looks at each other over hot chocolate and trees as she volunteers her time, and he looks after his tree lot. Literally the launch point for the story. Fine. But the ice storm and yet ANOTHER unnecessary plotline to pops out of it didn't actually serve any real purpose to the main plot line. It was filler.
You got her volunteering at the senior center which introduces her Gram, who seems to have dementia going on a bit (good representation of what it can be like to care for an aging loved one), and Jace’s uncle, who is terminally ill. Instead of stopping there we tack on Gram meddling in Adaline’s love life which leads to the fake dating, Ford’s wedding, the wedding cake, Gram’s robotic dog, etc For Gus you get his terminal illness and his surly disposition, but you also get his little ‘why he is the grinch’ side story tossed in towards the end of the book, thanks to the ice storm bit.
So now you have Adaline running a business, making a replica of her grandma’s wedding cake for her brother’s wedding, filling special orders for Christmas, while volunteering twice a week, while running a hot chocolate stand every other evening for her charity, while running the finances of said charity, while trying to secure a space for the charity, THEN throw on the solving of what happened to the mystery woman. Like, wow, busy lady, lots of side ‘quests’.
The second issue makes this book feel more like a slice of life book with a romantic interest tossed on top. This isn't a bad thing. I did enjoy the book. It's just something I noticed and thought I should comment on for those who are just looking for a straight Christmas fluff read. This book has a lot of additional stuff going on.
I didn’t feel like Adaline and Jace’s relationship took full priority, which is realistic of real life. But then you get a supposed romance that whirlwinds over the course of maybe two or so weeks, it isn’t so realistic, particularly for the outcome given in the book BEFORE the epilogue. For two people to reconnect after almost two decades or so, meet mostly at the seniors home or while working, go on no formal dates, get no time to really learn about the adult versions of each other, minus the decorating incident…the ‘resolution’ to their conflict felt so…unrealistic to me. If someone I knew did that in real life, I would be asking them if they were feeling alright.
That said, I did, again, enjoy the book. It was 100% a guiltless holiday read, exactly what I was hoping for! It had a lot of Christmas similes/metaphors thrown in there for a while, which was cute. It was a Christmas tree farmer and a baker so you can’t really go wrong. Jace grew up into a nice, health, mostly well-adjusted man. I quite liked him and how he treated Adaline, as an adult. when they were together. He was also incredibly kind and patient with this uncle and random children, and obviously took his job very seriously.
Adaline was also a likeable character. For someone who is portrayed as having some anxiety due to past relationships, she really never let it get in the way and sometimes I felt like it was just occasionally tossed in there for zero effect. She is obviously passionate about her job, her volunteer work, and her family. She is an all or nothing type of gal and I respected that. Her and Jace had obvious chemistry.
Fuzzy, the dog. For an animal who is constantly by Adaline’s side, he didn’t get as much page time as I thought he would. He also got zero walks by my count and never went outside to the bathroom. I know bathroom stuff is generally glossed over by the majority of writers, but one instance to just acknowledge it's a thing goes a long way with me. Like feeding the dog. Author mentioned it once and I was happy. Obviously the dog gets fed consistently, even if it's not mentioned consistently. lol
Conclusion?
It’s a wonderful, Christmas-filled, fluff read perfect to help get you in the holiday spirit! Just a cute, clean, fun romance story, with a few side stories going on, about a town’s baker and a coniferous tree farmer falling in love while caring for their elderly loved ones, and maybe their siblings 😉.
Actual rating is closer to 3.5, but I rounded up because this book is definitely better than 3 stars.
Potential triggers, though none are in great detail: elementary school bullying, death of a loved one x2, caring for elderly person with apparent dementia.
Spice level: kissing only, so zero
Noted tropes: enemies to lovers, fake dating, .
The short review:
A fun, but busy Hallmark movie in book form.
The long review:
Though obviously part of a series, Fa-La-La-La-Faking is perfectly able to stand on its own. It does make me want to go out of find the other two books in the series though. I am interested in how Comfort Paws got started.
Adaline Bishop is the local baker and proud owner of Cherry on Top bakery, where she sells all kinds of sweet confections. Twice a week, she takes her young dog, Fuzzy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, to the local seniors home as part of the dog volunteer group, Comfort Paws. Adaline and her friends are the proud founders of this dog therapy volunteer group and are hoping to continue growing the organization via fundraising to get a space to train more people and dogs. As part of their twice a week visits includes a grumpy, sick old man named Mr. Gus Martin. It turns out Gus’s nephew is back in town to spend time with his uncle knowing that Gus is terminally ill. This nephew is none other than Jace—a boy she had a crush on in elementary and the same boy who used to torment her.
So I only had two rather minor issues with this book, and I am going to start with them to get it out of the way. First issue being that teasing is fine so long as it's a genuinely misguided attempt to display affection. Second issue being the amount of 0ther, not actually necessary, stuff going on in the book.
One) the use of “he only teased you because he liked you” that is Jace teasing Adaline in grade 5.
While what Jace did isn’t quite to the level of being a full-blown bully, giving people unflattering nicknames they hate, teasing them, and then asking them to the dance only to tell all your friends that you don’t like her at all, an outright lie about it we come to learn, is kind of a douche-y start as a romantic plotline. Yes they were children and sure, he’s better now, but Adaline was still holding onto that hurt as an adult, so it obviously made a strong impression on her. The idea that she can hold that hurt and still like a person is baffling to me, personally. He was mean and said mean things behind her back, but she still crushed on him after hearing some of it? Interesting.
Two) the number of other things going on at the same time.
While somewhat realistic of some people’s real lives, felt like a lot of filler for the pages in the book. Most books having a heroine fall in love while running a bakery while also volunteering twice a week with her dog and that would be the full story. This one, however, brings in a bunch of subplots. So, you have Jace and his tree lot interfering with Adaline’s fundraiser as a plot device to bring everyone together, which is fine. This gives you hot and heavy looks at each other over hot chocolate and trees as she volunteers her time, and he looks after his tree lot. Literally the launch point for the story. Fine. But the ice storm and yet ANOTHER unnecessary plotline to pops out of it didn't actually serve any real purpose to the main plot line. It was filler.
You got her volunteering at the senior center which introduces her Gram, who seems to have dementia going on a bit (good representation of what it can be like to care for an aging loved one), and Jace’s uncle, who is terminally ill. Instead of stopping there we tack on Gram meddling in Adaline’s love life which leads to the fake dating, Ford’s wedding, the wedding cake, Gram’s robotic dog, etc For Gus you get his terminal illness and his surly disposition, but you also get his little ‘why he is the grinch’ side story tossed in towards the end of the book, thanks to the ice storm bit.
So now you have Adaline running a business, making a replica of her grandma’s wedding cake for her brother’s wedding, filling special orders for Christmas, while volunteering twice a week, while running a hot chocolate stand every other evening for her charity, while running the finances of said charity, while trying to secure a space for the charity, THEN throw on the solving of what happened to the mystery woman. Like, wow, busy lady, lots of side ‘quests’.
The second issue makes this book feel more like a slice of life book with a romantic interest tossed on top. This isn't a bad thing. I did enjoy the book. It's just something I noticed and thought I should comment on for those who are just looking for a straight Christmas fluff read. This book has a lot of additional stuff going on.
I didn’t feel like Adaline and Jace’s relationship took full priority, which is realistic of real life. But then you get a supposed romance that whirlwinds over the course of maybe two or so weeks, it isn’t so realistic, particularly for the outcome given in the book BEFORE the epilogue. For two people to reconnect after almost two decades or so, meet mostly at the seniors home or while working, go on no formal dates, get no time to really learn about the adult versions of each other, minus the decorating incident…the ‘resolution’ to their conflict felt so…unrealistic to me. If someone I knew did that in real life, I would be asking them if they were feeling alright.
That said, I did, again, enjoy the book. It was 100% a guiltless holiday read, exactly what I was hoping for! It had a lot of Christmas similes/metaphors thrown in there for a while, which was cute. It was a Christmas tree farmer and a baker so you can’t really go wrong. Jace grew up into a nice, health, mostly well-adjusted man. I quite liked him and how he treated Adaline, as an adult. when they were together. He was also incredibly kind and patient with this uncle and random children, and obviously took his job very seriously.
Adaline was also a likeable character. For someone who is portrayed as having some anxiety due to past relationships, she really never let it get in the way and sometimes I felt like it was just occasionally tossed in there for zero effect. She is obviously passionate about her job, her volunteer work, and her family. She is an all or nothing type of gal and I respected that. Her and Jace had obvious chemistry.
Fuzzy, the dog. For an animal who is constantly by Adaline’s side, he didn’t get as much page time as I thought he would. He also got zero walks by my count and never went outside to the bathroom. I know bathroom stuff is generally glossed over by the majority of writers, but one instance to just acknowledge it's a thing goes a long way with me. Like feeding the dog. Author mentioned it once and I was happy. Obviously the dog gets fed consistently, even if it's not mentioned consistently. lol
Conclusion?
It’s a wonderful, Christmas-filled, fluff read perfect to help get you in the holiday spirit! Just a cute, clean, fun romance story, with a few side stories going on, about a town’s baker and a coniferous tree farmer falling in love while caring for their elderly loved ones, and maybe their siblings 😉.
October 22, 2024
Sweet story. Adaline owns the local bakery and is an active member of Comfort Paws, an animal therapy group. As the book opens, she takes her dog, Fuzzy, to the local assisted living facility to visit the residents. Adaline meets Gus, who could give the Grinch a run for his money. On the way out of his room, she encounters Gus's great-nephew, Jace, her fifth-grade nemesis.
Jace lived with Gus for a year while his dad was undergoing cancer treatment. Then he went back home to his parents. He's never forgotten the time he spent with Gus. When he learns that Gus is ill, Jace packs up his life and returns to the small town. Gus is the only family Jace has left, and he's determined to spend Gus's remaining days with him.
Jace is happy to see Adaline again. He fondly remembers the bubbly, larger-than-life girl from school. He doesn't understand why she is so cold to him. The strain continues when Jace unknowingly interferes with a planned Comfort Paws fundraiser.
I liked Jace and Adaline. Jace is a good guy. When he finds out about the fundraiser, he finds a way to help them. I liked how he cleared the air with Adaline about the past and opened the door to renew their friendship. Adaline loves helping her friends and tends to go all in on any project she takes on.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Jace and Adaline. Once they got past the initial antagonism, they quickly discovered that they liked each other. When Adaline's grandmother signs her up for a matchmaking service, Adaline panics and claims she has a boyfriend, even though she doesn't. Jace comes to the rescue and claims that it is him. As they spend time together, their feelings for each other grow, but neither is ready to risk rejection by saying so,
Things get complicated when Jace and Adaline discover a secret about Gus's past. This causes a rift between Jace and Gus, stirring up Jace's insecurities. Instead of staying and working it out, Jace runs. I hurt for him and the loneliness he feels. I also hurt for Adaline, who had other bad news. Jace's departure was a final blow that hurt more than she expected. I loved that she didn't let it stop her for long. I laughed as she read Gus the riot act and hoped it would have the necessary effect on him. The ending was terrific. I loved Jace's big moment and the surprise he had for her. The epilogue was sweet and emotional, with a happy outlook for Jace, Adaline, and Comfort Paws.
Jace lived with Gus for a year while his dad was undergoing cancer treatment. Then he went back home to his parents. He's never forgotten the time he spent with Gus. When he learns that Gus is ill, Jace packs up his life and returns to the small town. Gus is the only family Jace has left, and he's determined to spend Gus's remaining days with him.
Jace is happy to see Adaline again. He fondly remembers the bubbly, larger-than-life girl from school. He doesn't understand why she is so cold to him. The strain continues when Jace unknowingly interferes with a planned Comfort Paws fundraiser.
I liked Jace and Adaline. Jace is a good guy. When he finds out about the fundraiser, he finds a way to help them. I liked how he cleared the air with Adaline about the past and opened the door to renew their friendship. Adaline loves helping her friends and tends to go all in on any project she takes on.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Jace and Adaline. Once they got past the initial antagonism, they quickly discovered that they liked each other. When Adaline's grandmother signs her up for a matchmaking service, Adaline panics and claims she has a boyfriend, even though she doesn't. Jace comes to the rescue and claims that it is him. As they spend time together, their feelings for each other grow, but neither is ready to risk rejection by saying so,
Things get complicated when Jace and Adaline discover a secret about Gus's past. This causes a rift between Jace and Gus, stirring up Jace's insecurities. Instead of staying and working it out, Jace runs. I hurt for him and the loneliness he feels. I also hurt for Adaline, who had other bad news. Jace's departure was a final blow that hurt more than she expected. I loved that she didn't let it stop her for long. I laughed as she read Gus the riot act and hoped it would have the necessary effect on him. The ending was terrific. I loved Jace's big moment and the surprise he had for her. The epilogue was sweet and emotional, with a happy outlook for Jace, Adaline, and Comfort Paws.
December 24, 2024
Adaline Bishop has come to visit her grandmother who is in an assisted living facility due to some cognitive decline. Her grandmother is so gung ho find Adaline a husband, she giving her a matchmaking service for Christmas. That is not what Adaline is interested in at all. So she tells a fib that she already has a boyfriend.
While at the assisted living facility, Adaline runs into Jace Martin. She had a crush on him in the fifth grade, but he ended up being her enemy. Now all this time later he’s handsome and much nicer. He volunteers to be her fake boyfriend.
Jace visits at the same assisted living place to see his uncle who is in a special area for those needing hospice care. Jace has taken time off to be with his uncle who was so kind to him when he was younger. Gus Martin is no longer an even tempered man. He puts the “c” in curmudgeon. Yes, he is sick and dying, but there must be more to it. Adaline works with Comfort Paws, a group that trains therapy dogs. She takes Fuzzy to visit at the assisted living place regularly. Gus grumbles and calls the dog a “mangy mutt”.
As time goes on will Adaline and Jace find out more about Gus’s past that is affecting his present? Will they be able to walk away from their fake relationship after Gus is gone?
This book is so much more than a “fake boyfriend” trope. There is deep emotion permeating the whole novel that at times had me teary. The addition of the dog Fuzzy was extra heartwarming for me. The efforts to expand Comfort Paws was very sweet with disappointment along the way.
This is a sweet small town romance which is one of my favorite types. Even though this is a Christmas story, it will lift you up any time of the year.
While at the assisted living facility, Adaline runs into Jace Martin. She had a crush on him in the fifth grade, but he ended up being her enemy. Now all this time later he’s handsome and much nicer. He volunteers to be her fake boyfriend.
Jace visits at the same assisted living place to see his uncle who is in a special area for those needing hospice care. Jace has taken time off to be with his uncle who was so kind to him when he was younger. Gus Martin is no longer an even tempered man. He puts the “c” in curmudgeon. Yes, he is sick and dying, but there must be more to it. Adaline works with Comfort Paws, a group that trains therapy dogs. She takes Fuzzy to visit at the assisted living place regularly. Gus grumbles and calls the dog a “mangy mutt”.
As time goes on will Adaline and Jace find out more about Gus’s past that is affecting his present? Will they be able to walk away from their fake relationship after Gus is gone?
This book is so much more than a “fake boyfriend” trope. There is deep emotion permeating the whole novel that at times had me teary. The addition of the dog Fuzzy was extra heartwarming for me. The efforts to expand Comfort Paws was very sweet with disappointment along the way.
This is a sweet small town romance which is one of my favorite types. Even though this is a Christmas story, it will lift you up any time of the year.
October 20, 2024
Adaline Bishop owns the local bakery, Cherry on Top, where she sells pies, cakes, and other sweet treats. Twice a week, she takes her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Fuzzy, to the senior living center as part of the volunteer group, Comfort Paws. On their route, they visit Mr. Martin, a grumpy old man with no Christmas spirit. One day, Adaline runs into his great-nephew, Jace—who she quickly realizes is the same boy who tormented her in fifth grade. Jace, meanwhile, is trying to figure out why Adaline is so cold toward him.
Things get worse when Jace sets up a Christmas Tree Lot in the county square, ruining Adaline’s plan to hold a holiday fundraiser for Comfort Paws. Tensions rise, and Jace goes out of his way to make it up to her, even though he did nothing wrong. Soon, Jace overhears Adaline telling her Gram about a fake boyfriend, and he steps in to fill the role.
This book delivers all the Christmas feels, from fake relationships to family bonds. It’s easy to get lost in the sweet, small-town charm, but I couldn’t help wondering: how is it that Fuzzy is always in the bakery? Isn’t that a health code violation? Anyway, you’ll root for Adaline and Jace, and love the side plot with Uncle Gus. Romance readers who love Christmas, fake relationships, and small-town vibes will find this book delightful. Five stars.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Things get worse when Jace sets up a Christmas Tree Lot in the county square, ruining Adaline’s plan to hold a holiday fundraiser for Comfort Paws. Tensions rise, and Jace goes out of his way to make it up to her, even though he did nothing wrong. Soon, Jace overhears Adaline telling her Gram about a fake boyfriend, and he steps in to fill the role.
This book delivers all the Christmas feels, from fake relationships to family bonds. It’s easy to get lost in the sweet, small-town charm, but I couldn’t help wondering: how is it that Fuzzy is always in the bakery? Isn’t that a health code violation? Anyway, you’ll root for Adaline and Jace, and love the side plot with Uncle Gus. Romance readers who love Christmas, fake relationships, and small-town vibes will find this book delightful. Five stars.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
September 6, 2024
Adaline doesn’t trust Jace when he turns up in town because she’s still hurting over an incident that happened when they were kids. It doesn’t help that Jace unknowingly ruins the fundraiser for Comfort Paws, the therapy dog business she runs with her three best friends. But Adaline needs a date for her brother’s wedding, and Jace makes the perfect fake boyfriend.
This story features two of my favorite romance tropes, enemies to lovers and fake relationship. The story heavily focuses on Christmas, for example Jace is an actual Christmas tree farmer, making it a fun holiday read. Fuzzy and the other therapy dogs are well integrated into the story without stealing the show.
I like Adaline’s big personality, her obsession with baking, and her close relationship with her grandmother. Jace makes a great hero. His grumpy, Grinch-like uncle nicely contributes to the conflict.
I enjoyed this world so much, I purchased the first book in the Comfort Paws series DOG DAYS OF SUMMER, which features Adelaide’s brother and her best friend, who is a partner in Comfort Paws.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to Harlequin Enterprises ULC for providing an Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story features two of my favorite romance tropes, enemies to lovers and fake relationship. The story heavily focuses on Christmas, for example Jace is an actual Christmas tree farmer, making it a fun holiday read. Fuzzy and the other therapy dogs are well integrated into the story without stealing the show.
I like Adaline’s big personality, her obsession with baking, and her close relationship with her grandmother. Jace makes a great hero. His grumpy, Grinch-like uncle nicely contributes to the conflict.
I enjoyed this world so much, I purchased the first book in the Comfort Paws series DOG DAYS OF SUMMER, which features Adelaide’s brother and her best friend, who is a partner in Comfort Paws.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to Harlequin Enterprises ULC for providing an Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2024
Fa La La La Faking it by Teri Wilson is a delightful Christmas story.
Adaline Bishop loves to bake. she is also involved with training puppies as therapy dogs. When she visits her grandmother at the Senior center she stops by room 212. There isn't a single decoration in the room. Plus Mr. Martin is cranky, a real grinch. But she pastes on a smile and tries to bring a little sunshine into the elderly mans day. As much as she tries, he growls at her to leave,
Jace Martin has returned to Bluebonnet to care for his dying uncle. But when Adaline realizes who Jace is, she burns with fury. The fifth grade comes marching back to her memory of how Jace had embarrassed her in front of the whole school.
This was a fun read. Enemies to lovers was a slow process with a fake relationship along the way. Jace tries to make up for what had happened years ago. I loved the characters and the puppies. There was good clean dialogue. A cute entertaining holiday romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received via NetGalley. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
Adaline Bishop loves to bake. she is also involved with training puppies as therapy dogs. When she visits her grandmother at the Senior center she stops by room 212. There isn't a single decoration in the room. Plus Mr. Martin is cranky, a real grinch. But she pastes on a smile and tries to bring a little sunshine into the elderly mans day. As much as she tries, he growls at her to leave,
Jace Martin has returned to Bluebonnet to care for his dying uncle. But when Adaline realizes who Jace is, she burns with fury. The fifth grade comes marching back to her memory of how Jace had embarrassed her in front of the whole school.
This was a fun read. Enemies to lovers was a slow process with a fake relationship along the way. Jace tries to make up for what had happened years ago. I loved the characters and the puppies. There was good clean dialogue. A cute entertaining holiday romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received via NetGalley. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
December 20, 2024
This was such a nice Harlequin Christmas story.
Adaline had always dreamed of having her own bakery. She enjoyed baking and spending time with her grandmother. Her classmates teased her about it. Even Jace, the boy she had a crush on, made fun of her.
Her dream has come true. She now owns Cherry on Top Bakery. She also trains therapy dogs and visits patients at a senior center with her dog Fuzzy. Fuzzy is loved by everyone except Gus, Jace's uncle. Jace is back in town, and Adeline hasn't seen him since fifth grade, when she overheard him talking about her to his friends.
I liked this story. The cooking and baking added an extra sweet and festive atmosphere.
There were many things I liked about this book:
* Bakery. I love Christmas stories that involve baking and cooking
* Cute and enigmatic grandma
* Grumpy and lonely uncle in the retirement home
* Friendly therapy dog
* Christmas wedding preparation
* Faking romance
* Small town setting
Adaline had always dreamed of having her own bakery. She enjoyed baking and spending time with her grandmother. Her classmates teased her about it. Even Jace, the boy she had a crush on, made fun of her.
Her dream has come true. She now owns Cherry on Top Bakery. She also trains therapy dogs and visits patients at a senior center with her dog Fuzzy. Fuzzy is loved by everyone except Gus, Jace's uncle. Jace is back in town, and Adeline hasn't seen him since fifth grade, when she overheard him talking about her to his friends.
I liked this story. The cooking and baking added an extra sweet and festive atmosphere.
There were many things I liked about this book:
* Bakery. I love Christmas stories that involve baking and cooking
* Cute and enigmatic grandma
* Grumpy and lonely uncle in the retirement home
* Friendly therapy dog
* Christmas wedding preparation
* Faking romance
* Small town setting
November 3, 2024
Fa-La-La-La Faking It by Teri Wilson, book three in the Comfort Paws series, is a sweet, small-town holiday story with a lot of charm that is about friendships, family, and a fake relationship that feels quite real.
Adaline Bishop loves to bake, and fortunately for the town, she owns the local bakery, Cherry on Top, where she sells pies, cakes, and other sweet treats. Twice a week, she takes her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Fuzzy, to the senior living center as part of the volunteer group, Comfort Paws; a group training puppies as therapy dogs. She visits her grandmother at the senior center, with her dog, Fuzzy, connecting with the person who nourished her love for baking. While visiting the seniors, she also visits Mr. Martin, a grumpy old man with no Christmas spirit. One day, Adaline runs into his great-nephew, Jace; who she realizes is the same boy who tormented her in fifth grade. Jace, meanwhile, is trying to figure out why Adaline is so cold toward him.
Jace Martin returned to Bluebonnet to care for his dying uncle. When Adaline realizes who Jace is, she is furious as fifth grade memories of how Jace embarrassed her in front of the whole school return. Things between them worsen when Jace sets up a Christmas Tree Lot in the county square, ruining Adaline’s plan to hold a holiday fundraiser for Comfort Paws. Tensions rise, and Jace goes out of his way to make it up to her, even though he did nothing wrong. When Jace overhears Adaline telling her Gram about a fake boyfriend, he steps up, fulfilling the role. Jace tries to make up for what had happened years ago, playing the perfect boyfriend.
This story had all the holiday feels, from fake relationships to family bonds. I enjoyed the background story about Uncle Gus. With the help of their friends, the seniors, the therapy dogs, and even Uncle Gus, Jace hopes to convince Adaline to make their fake relationship a real one.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#NetGalley #Harlequin
Adaline Bishop loves to bake, and fortunately for the town, she owns the local bakery, Cherry on Top, where she sells pies, cakes, and other sweet treats. Twice a week, she takes her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Fuzzy, to the senior living center as part of the volunteer group, Comfort Paws; a group training puppies as therapy dogs. She visits her grandmother at the senior center, with her dog, Fuzzy, connecting with the person who nourished her love for baking. While visiting the seniors, she also visits Mr. Martin, a grumpy old man with no Christmas spirit. One day, Adaline runs into his great-nephew, Jace; who she realizes is the same boy who tormented her in fifth grade. Jace, meanwhile, is trying to figure out why Adaline is so cold toward him.
Jace Martin returned to Bluebonnet to care for his dying uncle. When Adaline realizes who Jace is, she is furious as fifth grade memories of how Jace embarrassed her in front of the whole school return. Things between them worsen when Jace sets up a Christmas Tree Lot in the county square, ruining Adaline’s plan to hold a holiday fundraiser for Comfort Paws. Tensions rise, and Jace goes out of his way to make it up to her, even though he did nothing wrong. When Jace overhears Adaline telling her Gram about a fake boyfriend, he steps up, fulfilling the role. Jace tries to make up for what had happened years ago, playing the perfect boyfriend.
This story had all the holiday feels, from fake relationships to family bonds. I enjoyed the background story about Uncle Gus. With the help of their friends, the seniors, the therapy dogs, and even Uncle Gus, Jace hopes to convince Adaline to make their fake relationship a real one.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#NetGalley #Harlequin
October 31, 2024
So fun!
I enjoyed this book, just like all the other Teri Wilson books that I've read. I didn't read the previous book in this series, but that's ok, don't worry about it. You'll catch on really quick just like I did.
When Adaline is forced to jump into a fake relationship with her former grade school crush, she is doing it to satisfy her grandma, who isn't doing well health-wise. She hasn't seen Jace for many years, but they immediately recognize each other. Jace is in town to help out his Uncle, who also happens to know Adaline and her therapy-dog-in-training, Fuzzy. Put all these ingredients together into one of Cherry On Top's blenders and you get a sweet, easy to read romance set at Christmas in a small town...perfect!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this book, just like all the other Teri Wilson books that I've read. I didn't read the previous book in this series, but that's ok, don't worry about it. You'll catch on really quick just like I did.
When Adaline is forced to jump into a fake relationship with her former grade school crush, she is doing it to satisfy her grandma, who isn't doing well health-wise. She hasn't seen Jace for many years, but they immediately recognize each other. Jace is in town to help out his Uncle, who also happens to know Adaline and her therapy-dog-in-training, Fuzzy. Put all these ingredients together into one of Cherry On Top's blenders and you get a sweet, easy to read romance set at Christmas in a small town...perfect!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
October 22, 2024
A wonderful holiday story about the fake relationship that segues into reality. When Adeline's grandmother offers matchmaking services a fake boyfriend steps forward. But when pretend becomes reality, can Adeline and Jace accept their emotions and find a future together?
As his uncle, and last surviving relative approaches his final days a past is uncovered that raises questions and a rift develops sending Jace running. When Adeline confronts Gus will he contact Jace?
A heartwarming book about true love, second chances, and forgiveness. Although part of a series, this story can be read as a standalone book.
Although I received a free ARC ebook from net galley and the publisher, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
As his uncle, and last surviving relative approaches his final days a past is uncovered that raises questions and a rift develops sending Jace running. When Adeline confronts Gus will he contact Jace?
A heartwarming book about true love, second chances, and forgiveness. Although part of a series, this story can be read as a standalone book.
Although I received a free ARC ebook from net galley and the publisher, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 28, 2024
This holiday book is perfect for anyone looking for a good fake romance or enemies-to-lovers story. I really enjoyed it. I liked getting to know each character from why Adaline deemed Jace as an nemesis from when they were younger. Then there was the meddling grandmother who was only trying to help Adaline out by getting her that matchmaking service causing her and Jace to end up faking a relationship. I loved seeing the real romance and care form from there. Then we also get to know a bit more about Jaces uncle who Adaline keeps popping in on with her therapy dog and getting to know more about why he's so rude and grumpy. Overall this was just a pretty good book I really enjoyed it and if you are looking for a book that makes you think of hallmark movies you'll like this one.
May 2, 2025
wow what a great story
This was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. The theme had already caught my interest since I love to read stories about dogs. Having a story about how great dogs are mixed with a romance is what made me read the book. I got so engrossed in the storyline that I couldn’t put the book down.No I didn’t read it continually for 5 hours but I did read it in one day. I even got so emotionally tied to the characters that it had me feeling many different emotions both happy and sad-yes I even had tears at one time. Thanks for writing about comfort and therapy dogs.
This was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. The theme had already caught my interest since I love to read stories about dogs. Having a story about how great dogs are mixed with a romance is what made me read the book. I got so engrossed in the storyline that I couldn’t put the book down.No I didn’t read it continually for 5 hours but I did read it in one day. I even got so emotionally tied to the characters that it had me feeling many different emotions both happy and sad-yes I even had tears at one time. Thanks for writing about comfort and therapy dogs.
October 27, 2024
Teri Wilson has delivered a delightful holiday rom-com with this one! This book has everything you’d want in a Christmas read… fake dating, quirky family dynamics, and a swoon-worthy romance set against a backdrop of holiday cheer. The chemistry between the characters is charming, and the fake relationship trope is executed with just the right amount of humor and warmth.
The festive setting really brings the Christmas spirit to life, and I found myself grinning through most of the book. While there were a few predictable moments, it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. It’s a perfect pick if you’re looking for a lighthearted, feel-good holiday romance to cozy up with.
Highly recommend for fans of Hallmark movies and anyone looking to get into the holiday mood!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
The festive setting really brings the Christmas spirit to life, and I found myself grinning through most of the book. While there were a few predictable moments, it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. It’s a perfect pick if you’re looking for a lighthearted, feel-good holiday romance to cozy up with.
Highly recommend for fans of Hallmark movies and anyone looking to get into the holiday mood!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 20, 2024
A baker, a Christmas tree farmer, fake dating AND dogs? Yes, please.
It is the third installment of a series but it works as a stand-alone perfectly. Wilson gives enough context to know who all the main characters in Bluebonnet, Texas are and how they are intertwined. If I read the first two books, I know I'd be hoping Adaline gets her own book and happy every after. She's so kind, open hearted, and giving. Past boyfriends chastised her for being "too much" but that's exactly what makes her so lovely.
This is a sweet romance that doesn't feel forced or twee. There's a lot of heart and depth in these characters and this community of Bluebonnet. Just perfect for holiday reading.
Thank you to Harlequin - Romance | Harlequin Special Edition and NetGalley for the advance reader copy. I am required by law to disclose this. #FaLaLaLaFakingIt #NetGalley
It is the third installment of a series but it works as a stand-alone perfectly. Wilson gives enough context to know who all the main characters in Bluebonnet, Texas are and how they are intertwined. If I read the first two books, I know I'd be hoping Adaline gets her own book and happy every after. She's so kind, open hearted, and giving. Past boyfriends chastised her for being "too much" but that's exactly what makes her so lovely.
This is a sweet romance that doesn't feel forced or twee. There's a lot of heart and depth in these characters and this community of Bluebonnet. Just perfect for holiday reading.
Thank you to Harlequin - Romance | Harlequin Special Edition and NetGalley for the advance reader copy. I am required by law to disclose this. #FaLaLaLaFakingIt #NetGalley
December 16, 2024
For my Christmas pick this year I read the latest novel from Teri Wilson "Fa La La La Faking It" and loved it!!! :D I've read a lot of Teri's books over the years and this was a sweet Christmas love story about former childhood schoolmates who didn't get along but secretly liked each other, that by chance reunite as adults. She needs a date to her brother's wedding and he agrees for pretend, but their feelings come back. Also deals with some family issues for both of them too. It is part of a series but can easily be read as a standalone Christmas novel.
October 30, 2024
To avoid hurting her grandmother’s feelings over a Christmas gift gone awry, Adaline pretends to have a boyfriend—her childhood nemesis, Jace. Their fake relationship, intended to be a short-term fix, unexpectedly blossoms into something real as Christmas magic unfolds.
What a cute book! I really love Adaline and Jace together—they’re adorable. This holiday rom-com is as funny as it is heartwarming.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
What a cute book! I really love Adaline and Jace together—they’re adorable. This holiday rom-com is as funny as it is heartwarming.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
February 26, 2025
A really sweet read centered around Christmas but readable any time of year. I appreciated the many truths in this book. A lot of people have been called too much like Adaline or said the wrong thing to impress a group like Jace. The past events happened in fifth grade, and it was made clear that they were just kids but even kids have feelings. It was a careful balance done right. Also I loved the older relatives and their stories.
May 17, 2025
This is a good book. The two main characters are Adaline and Jace. They have known each other since elementary school. Jace has moved back to Adaline’s hometown to take care of his uncle, who is a senior home. There is an attraction. Jace volunteers to be Adaline’s fake boyfriend, for Adaline’s brother wedding. They start dating. They each have issues but together they work it out and fall in love.
October 23, 2024
Another cute Christmas story from Wilson - I could absolutely see this one turning into a brilliant hallmark movie, like several of her others.
I really enjoyed the second chance storyline between Adaline and Jace, the therapy dogs, and his grumpy uncle. Her grandmother and the wacky matchmaker service gift card Christmas present leading to them having to fake date to get out of accepting it gives us this very sweet book. A definite recommendation from me!
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Special Edition, and this is my honest feedback.
I really enjoyed the second chance storyline between Adaline and Jace, the therapy dogs, and his grumpy uncle. Her grandmother and the wacky matchmaker service gift card Christmas present leading to them having to fake date to get out of accepting it gives us this very sweet book. A definite recommendation from me!
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Special Edition, and this is my honest feedback.
June 7, 2025
Jace and Adeline
A sweet fake romance story. In the process of their fake romance, Jace and Adeline learn a long-buried secret about Jace's Uncle Gus. It is actually the 3rd romance in the Comfort Paws series with some wonderful dogs. I hope there is another book for the 4th member of the Comfort Paws group.
A sweet fake romance story. In the process of their fake romance, Jace and Adeline learn a long-buried secret about Jace's Uncle Gus. It is actually the 3rd romance in the Comfort Paws series with some wonderful dogs. I hope there is another book for the 4th member of the Comfort Paws group.
May 9, 2025
I finished this short but entertaining Christmas romance in early January. Lots of fun and humor. And if you love dogs, Teri doesn't disappoint. Although Christmas has passed, romance never does. You'll love it
October 28, 2024
Very cute, PG holiday romance. Jace was a great leading man, and I enjoyed his story arc with his uncle. This was a sweet and easy read.
November 16, 2024
Seriously the most adorable Christmas story I've ever read. I loved it!
December 4, 2024
Catchy title but I had a hard time finishing it. Just wasn't anything to set it apart from other romances with the same 'fake dating' trope.
December 12, 2024
Loved Gus, he made me cry towards the end. This book is a great read.
December 15, 2024
Cute christmas read
April 12, 2025
Adaline Bishop, who loves baking and training therapy dogs, often visits her grandmother at a senior center and tries to cheer up the grumpy Mr. Martin. When Jace Martin returns to town to care for his dying uncle, Adaline is reminded of how he embarrassed her in fifth grade. Despite their past, she reluctantly asks Jace to be her fake boyfriend for her brother’s wedding.
Set during the Christmas season, this romance blends the enemies-to-lovers and fake relationship tropes, with therapy dogs adding charm to the story. Adaline’s vibrant personality and her bond with her grandmother, along with Jace’s redemption, make for a fun and heartwarming read.
Set during the Christmas season, this romance blends the enemies-to-lovers and fake relationship tropes, with therapy dogs adding charm to the story. Adaline’s vibrant personality and her bond with her grandmother, along with Jace’s redemption, make for a fun and heartwarming read.
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