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Fake For Fame
She'd always been acting in love. Until her. Cheryl Bourne is tripping on the red carpet. Following a highly publicized divorce, her Hollywood career is hanging by a thread. Desperate to stay in the spotlight, she agrees to an unthinkable pretend to be a lesbian, fake date an escort, and exploit the ensuing media frenzy.
The catch? Her fake girlfriend was her ex-husband's mistress.
Gilda Jones, siren-eyed and jaded, is only interested in her own success. She's ready to quit the escort life, and this job is her ticket out. Getting along with Cheryl may be impossible, but resisting her growing desire proves even harder.
Now they just have to make the crowd believe it. But how far will they fake it for fame?
Sizzle up with this slow-burning sapphic romance with a HEA. Expect enemies to lovers, toaster oven/sapphic awakening, Hollywood celesbian, an ex-husband's mistress, and s-x worker tropes. Read Fake for Fame and rediscover what it means to find trust under the hot Hollywood lights.
The catch? Her fake girlfriend was her ex-husband's mistress.
Gilda Jones, siren-eyed and jaded, is only interested in her own success. She's ready to quit the escort life, and this job is her ticket out. Getting along with Cheryl may be impossible, but resisting her growing desire proves even harder.
Now they just have to make the crowd believe it. But how far will they fake it for fame?
Sizzle up with this slow-burning sapphic romance with a HEA. Expect enemies to lovers, toaster oven/sapphic awakening, Hollywood celesbian, an ex-husband's mistress, and s-x worker tropes. Read Fake for Fame and rediscover what it means to find trust under the hot Hollywood lights.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2024
92 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 14, 2024
An entertaining read… a celebrity, an escort, with plenty of animosity between them, add in a toaster oven in the mix…now, how can that not be entertaining enough?
June 25, 2024
Bits I really enjoyed although I felt some characters like the crime fella were a bit cartoonish. The ex husband also. There were bits of this novel that were quite different from the norm. Mains that had cosmetic surgery being one. I am not sure how folk will react to one main being willing to lie to everyone that she is gay, when she isn’t. (Spoiler alert, but not really, she really is!)
It is also unusual that money problems don’t have a Good Samaritan reason behind them. Also one main wasn’t really that likeable to the other, I’m not convinced it was justified. Interesting past history tho. I liked the way, another secondary character Lucy, spoke to our main. It was good to be shown her attitude rather than be told. A comfortable 3, provided belief suspension is done.
It is also unusual that money problems don’t have a Good Samaritan reason behind them. Also one main wasn’t really that likeable to the other, I’m not convinced it was justified. Interesting past history tho. I liked the way, another secondary character Lucy, spoke to our main. It was good to be shown her attitude rather than be told. A comfortable 3, provided belief suspension is done.
July 11, 2024
4 Stars
The relationship forged in fire between the main characters endeared me to the story. The fact that they were burnt in their respective lives and then forced to work together. The trust they built in their relationship was precious. The rest is history for me.
The relationship forged in fire between the main characters endeared me to the story. The fact that they were burnt in their respective lives and then forced to work together. The trust they built in their relationship was precious. The rest is history for me.
October 13, 2024
Now, this baby was sweet. At first I wasn't going to read it because faux-mance is not my thing and the cover is not that intriguing either... but yeah... "Don't judge a book by its cover" coz I admit, this one was really good. Esp when 2nd MC came back after that revelation, I was in cloud-9 because me, I would be trembling somewhere on my therapist's couch, I swear, fuck that stress.
Though, that best friend twist was very unexpected and I honestly didn't like it one bit.
Though, that best friend twist was very unexpected and I honestly didn't like it one bit.
June 24, 2024
Cheryl and Gilda's initial encounter was not particularly positive, to say the least, as Gilda was the escort who was the last straw that tipped the scales on the ending of Cheryl's marriage. However, the undeniable attraction between them proved too strong to resist, and it was only a matter of time before their intense chemistry led them to succumb to their desires.
I thoroughly enjoyed the direction this book took from the beginning to the end. The sexual tension in this book is palpable, and it is absolutely worth the wait in this slow burn for the two characters to finally admit to themselves that they actually have feelings for each other. It is truly a marvellous book.
I absolutely loved the dramatic elements of this book. The plot is well-conceived and skillfully executed, and I found it difficult to put the book down. It is an incredible book and I highly recommend it!
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I thoroughly enjoyed the direction this book took from the beginning to the end. The sexual tension in this book is palpable, and it is absolutely worth the wait in this slow burn for the two characters to finally admit to themselves that they actually have feelings for each other. It is truly a marvellous book.
I absolutely loved the dramatic elements of this book. The plot is well-conceived and skillfully executed, and I found it difficult to put the book down. It is an incredible book and I highly recommend it!
Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 2, 2024
One of those easily inhalable books that you just can’t put down, enemies to lovers with flaming chemistry that drags you into their orbit.
A later in life sapphic awakening, this was flawed and predictable but absolutely devourable.
A few errors, and in places the writing comes across as trying too hard, also considering it’s an older “potentially washed up” actress it was odd to use so many modern terms and slang in her narration.
Lots of really funny, sweet and adorable moments, such an enjoyable and easy read. Fast paced, fun and steamy, I recommend for any wlw romance reader.
“And it turns out, women who like women are really into feminist, cinematic, masterpieces with naked tits” (Amen 🙌)
I wasn’t really a fan of lying to the LGBT community (and the hint at bi-erasure; why couldn’t she at least say she’s bi?) The Queerbaiting for profits hits a little close to home. But I was happy with how it developed and was addressed-ish towards the end, and Lucy was a horrible person.
Everyone got the ending they deserved, and I loved them facing their fears, homophobia and standing up for each other throughout. This was honestly a very wholesome, warm and fuzzy read.
A later in life sapphic awakening, this was flawed and predictable but absolutely devourable.
A few errors, and in places the writing comes across as trying too hard, also considering it’s an older “potentially washed up” actress it was odd to use so many modern terms and slang in her narration.
Lots of really funny, sweet and adorable moments, such an enjoyable and easy read. Fast paced, fun and steamy, I recommend for any wlw romance reader.
“And it turns out, women who like women are really into feminist, cinematic, masterpieces with naked tits” (Amen 🙌)
I wasn’t really a fan of lying to the LGBT community (and the hint at bi-erasure; why couldn’t she at least say she’s bi?) The Queerbaiting for profits hits a little close to home. But I was happy with how it developed and was addressed-ish towards the end, and Lucy was a horrible person.
Everyone got the ending they deserved, and I loved them facing their fears, homophobia and standing up for each other throughout. This was honestly a very wholesome, warm and fuzzy read.
August 20, 2024
This was a very enjoyable novel. You need to bring your suspension of disbelief for this one, but once you have that strapped in then this will be a very fun novel. This touches on a bunch of topics, including the struggles of being in the public eye, sexism in the entertainment industry, sex work, relationships, sexuality, and all sorts of topics related to the media. They leaned hard into the enemies-to-lovers trope with great results. I gave it a low-5-stars; its not perfect or the best novel I have read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and I think its worth the read.
Highlights:
-The romance was well done. Their chemistry was wonderful, and their interactions were satisfying. At times elements were unrealistic, but overall, it worked well and was very enjoyable. In the later sections of the novel, I loved how much they supported each other and opened up about their vulnerabilities and past histories. In some ways some things moved rather quickly, but it still worked.
-This novel was very sex positive, and sex-worker positive. This was delightful to see! Sex work is real work. I particularly enjoyed the section where Gilda challenged Cheryl about who she was blaming for the infidelity in her marriage, because it was a very excellent point (the spouse hiring the escort is certainly more to blame than the woman simply doing a job).
-The characters were well developed and detailed. Gilda had a solid backstory that really worked, which was refreshing. The side characters were also great in this novel, to the point where I could easily see (and would read) multiple sidequels (companion novels?).
-I love how Cheryl wrote a super gay movie without even realizing it. I can’t think of a better way to tease a pre-realization gay character.
Complaints:
-This was an incredibly dumb plot, that never had a chance of working if the novel was even slightly realistic. That truly needs to be said right at the start lol. This isn’t necessarily an issue as fiction isn’t always required to be realistic, but when this much suspension of disbelief is required, it starts to be an issue. Also, while reading this I immediately knew exactly what was going to go wrong eventually……because of course it was! Hiring a known escort?? She may have been relatively low profile, but she was well known enough that Cheryl’s agent knew her and had her contact information. Gilda had even met that interviewer before! Also, an escort that the ex-husband, who was bitter and spiteful, knew and had hired in the past??? No one would have ever considered this plan in real life.
-Faking gay, in the way it was done in this story, wasn’t a great vibe. The way it played out was reasonably ok in the end, but I still didn’t love it. I had been hoping that her agent would later reveal that she “knew” she was gay and therefore figured it would be ok, and maybe even help her realize that about herself, but sadly that never happened.
-Don’t attempt to make sense of any of the financials of this novel. Just don’t, it doesn’t make sense. Bail, with some interest (and only half of it!) would not be equal to the majority of a multimillionaire, 2-time Oscar winners’ money. Talking about being broke and eating instant noodles, but keeping the yacht, is insane (those are SO expensive to own/maintain/operate). Gilda was being paid a percentage but got “half” as an advance (half of an unknown number?)? There were a lot of little things that just needled at me, these are just a few random examples.
Highlights:
-The romance was well done. Their chemistry was wonderful, and their interactions were satisfying. At times elements were unrealistic, but overall, it worked well and was very enjoyable. In the later sections of the novel, I loved how much they supported each other and opened up about their vulnerabilities and past histories. In some ways some things moved rather quickly, but it still worked.
-This novel was very sex positive, and sex-worker positive. This was delightful to see! Sex work is real work. I particularly enjoyed the section where Gilda challenged Cheryl about who she was blaming for the infidelity in her marriage, because it was a very excellent point (the spouse hiring the escort is certainly more to blame than the woman simply doing a job).
-The characters were well developed and detailed. Gilda had a solid backstory that really worked, which was refreshing. The side characters were also great in this novel, to the point where I could easily see (and would read) multiple sidequels (companion novels?).
-I love how Cheryl wrote a super gay movie without even realizing it. I can’t think of a better way to tease a pre-realization gay character.
Complaints:
-This was an incredibly dumb plot, that never had a chance of working if the novel was even slightly realistic. That truly needs to be said right at the start lol. This isn’t necessarily an issue as fiction isn’t always required to be realistic, but when this much suspension of disbelief is required, it starts to be an issue. Also, while reading this I immediately knew exactly what was going to go wrong eventually……because of course it was! Hiring a known escort?? She may have been relatively low profile, but she was well known enough that Cheryl’s agent knew her and had her contact information. Gilda had even met that interviewer before! Also, an escort that the ex-husband, who was bitter and spiteful, knew and had hired in the past??? No one would have ever considered this plan in real life.
-Faking gay, in the way it was done in this story, wasn’t a great vibe. The way it played out was reasonably ok in the end, but I still didn’t love it. I had been hoping that her agent would later reveal that she “knew” she was gay and therefore figured it would be ok, and maybe even help her realize that about herself, but sadly that never happened.
-Don’t attempt to make sense of any of the financials of this novel. Just don’t, it doesn’t make sense. Bail, with some interest (and only half of it!) would not be equal to the majority of a multimillionaire, 2-time Oscar winners’ money. Talking about being broke and eating instant noodles, but keeping the yacht, is insane (those are SO expensive to own/maintain/operate). Gilda was being paid a percentage but got “half” as an advance (half of an unknown number?)? There were a lot of little things that just needled at me, these are just a few random examples.
June 25, 2024
I did receive an ARC of this book in exchange for a review that being said I thoroughly enjoyed Isla Briggs's Fake For Fame. This is the second book I've read by Briggs and I can confidently say it will not be the last. The dynamic between Cheryl and Gilda was absolutely captivating with Cheryl's strong dislike for Gilda and Gildas love of provoking and comforting Cheryl. Both women enter the relationship for monetary gain and to save Cheryl's new movie but they both gain an unexpected love in the end. The relationship between Cheryl and Gilda is both rough and difficult yet soft and sweet depending on the moment. I'd highly recommend this novel to any friend of mine as it was well-written and extremely captivating.
July 9, 2024
3.5 stars
I feel like I could've liked this more than I did. Up until around the 60% I only had 1 issue: I didn't really vibe with the writing, I wasn't always sure whose POV it was. But the story was captivating and I had fun reading. However, I felt the second part of the book was rushed and things were just too easy. But still, I did enjoy this book, I liked the trope I liked the tension and it was overall a nice read, I was missing something extra.
I feel like I could've liked this more than I did. Up until around the 60% I only had 1 issue: I didn't really vibe with the writing, I wasn't always sure whose POV it was. But the story was captivating and I had fun reading. However, I felt the second part of the book was rushed and things were just too easy. But still, I did enjoy this book, I liked the trope I liked the tension and it was overall a nice read, I was missing something extra.
June 26, 2024
First of all, this was my first book from this author and it was Overall a enjoyable read. Especially if are nothing like me, who always things trough books If it is really realistic what is happening.
Cherly divorced her husband who a big name in hollywood and made her famous as well after He cheated on her with an Escort.
To prompt her first Independent movie Lucy, Cherlys Manager desided its a good idea to promote with a lesbians romance. Enter Gilda a Escort known for being in the limelight next to usually old famous guys. And here was already the moment the story went down, because why in the heck would a PR Manager book a escort known amoungs other celebs?!?
Cherly is not a stupid 18 years old , she should be intelligent and Long enought in Hollywood to know its the worst idea to use the escort her husband cheated on her with to play this plot.
Both characters for me a very well written, they are likable and i enjoyed their story. I especially loved we got to know more about Gildas backstory. I
The Storyline itself is well written, If you can come over the Initial facepalm that its unrealistc its a enjoyable read.
Only the end got me again. Money is a huge topic in the book, money Cherly invested in the movie and how she pays something for Gilda. There is a huge declaration where Cherly would sell her house for Gilda to help her - which they do and than live on Cherlys Yacht. This is all not adding well. We learn she has 2 Oscars, looking up which actresses in real live have 2 Oscars we know they are far from poor and wouldnt have to sell a mansion If one movie of them only breaks even, eighter there is missing a huge part of backstory or i just dont see it...
To put it together short. If you want a book thats a easy and fun read this is it.
If you like me and want facts in books matching with reality prepared yourself that its Not totally acurat here.
Cherly divorced her husband who a big name in hollywood and made her famous as well after He cheated on her with an Escort.
To prompt her first Independent movie Lucy, Cherlys Manager desided its a good idea to promote with a lesbians romance. Enter Gilda a Escort known for being in the limelight next to usually old famous guys. And here was already the moment the story went down, because why in the heck would a PR Manager book a escort known amoungs other celebs?!?
Cherly is not a stupid 18 years old , she should be intelligent and Long enought in Hollywood to know its the worst idea to use the escort her husband cheated on her with to play this plot.
Both characters for me a very well written, they are likable and i enjoyed their story. I especially loved we got to know more about Gildas backstory. I
The Storyline itself is well written, If you can come over the Initial facepalm that its unrealistc its a enjoyable read.
Only the end got me again. Money is a huge topic in the book, money Cherly invested in the movie and how she pays something for Gilda. There is a huge declaration where Cherly would sell her house for Gilda to help her - which they do and than live on Cherlys Yacht. This is all not adding well. We learn she has 2 Oscars, looking up which actresses in real live have 2 Oscars we know they are far from poor and wouldnt have to sell a mansion If one movie of them only breaks even, eighter there is missing a huge part of backstory or i just dont see it...
To put it together short. If you want a book thats a easy and fun read this is it.
If you like me and want facts in books matching with reality prepared yourself that its Not totally acurat here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2024
Cheryl needs to fake it till she makes it as a famous actress turned producer. She needs to move on from the anger of her failed marriage and the imposter syndrome she feels in her career. When her debut film becomes the new hot lesbian must-see, her publicist hatches a scheme to cash in on the hype. Fake date an escort for the film promo and watch the money roll. Cheryl agrees to pretend to be a lesbian, but in the end is it a game of pretend or the long buried truth?
Gilda is an escort who longs to be something more than bought and paid. She's fed up with having to hustle Johns just to pay her debts. The life of a sex worker isn't an easy one and she's getting older. When the chance to pay off her loan comes her way, she struggles with the job. How was she supposed to fake date the woman who had caught her sleeping with that woman's now ex-husband? The first rule of being an escort is not to fall for the John, or in this case the Jane.
This couple is in for a whirlwind of emotions. Heated words bring even hotter makeout sessions as walls crash down within themselves. Will they realize there is nothing fake about their love or will the fame wreck what they could become?
I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Gilda is an escort who longs to be something more than bought and paid. She's fed up with having to hustle Johns just to pay her debts. The life of a sex worker isn't an easy one and she's getting older. When the chance to pay off her loan comes her way, she struggles with the job. How was she supposed to fake date the woman who had caught her sleeping with that woman's now ex-husband? The first rule of being an escort is not to fall for the John, or in this case the Jane.
This couple is in for a whirlwind of emotions. Heated words bring even hotter makeout sessions as walls crash down within themselves. Will they realize there is nothing fake about their love or will the fame wreck what they could become?
I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
June 24, 2024
Cheryl is a famous, Oscar-winning Hollywood actress who is still trying to get over her divorce from her ex-husband, who she caught cheating on her with an escort. Deciding to take a break from acting and produce a film, Cheryl is surprised to learn that the upcoming film has a large following of queer women. Having sunk a lot of money into the film, Cheryl's PR person convinces her to hire an escort and pretend they are girlfriends in order to stir up more excitement. It turns out the escort is Gilda, the same woman who was caught with Cheryl's cheating husband.
Cheryl ultimately decides to go through with the ruse and, of course, we know how most fake dating stories end up.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I didn't think the author did a good enough job convincing us why the fake dating was necessary for the success of the film, especially since the lead actress in the film was queer, and why Cheryl didn't tell her PR person that Gilda was the woman she caught with her ex. Those were two important plot points.
But the second half of the book was stronger, even after it was clear that a real relationship was in the works. Usually I'm not too interested in final chapters after the MCs get together, but in this case, the final chapters kept my interest.
Cheryl ultimately decides to go through with the ruse and, of course, we know how most fake dating stories end up.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I didn't think the author did a good enough job convincing us why the fake dating was necessary for the success of the film, especially since the lead actress in the film was queer, and why Cheryl didn't tell her PR person that Gilda was the woman she caught with her ex. Those were two important plot points.
But the second half of the book was stronger, even after it was clear that a real relationship was in the works. Usually I'm not too interested in final chapters after the MCs get together, but in this case, the final chapters kept my interest.
June 26, 2024
A book worth staying up all night to read!
This book had me from page one! I was on that red carpet with Cheryl, watching her walk it. Seeing the flash bulbs, seeing the annoying reporters, feeling the plush carpet in the high heels. That's the thing about Isla Briggs. She has such a way with the descriptions and setting that scene that you can feel it. Her character build up, loved it. At one point, I was rooting for Cheryl and wanting to punch Gilda. The next, I was falling in love with Gilda and annoyed at Cheryl for putting up with Lucy. When an author keeps you guessing and invested in the story that way, you know it's a winner! Do not regret staying up all night to read it!
This book had me from page one! I was on that red carpet with Cheryl, watching her walk it. Seeing the flash bulbs, seeing the annoying reporters, feeling the plush carpet in the high heels. That's the thing about Isla Briggs. She has such a way with the descriptions and setting that scene that you can feel it. Her character build up, loved it. At one point, I was rooting for Cheryl and wanting to punch Gilda. The next, I was falling in love with Gilda and annoyed at Cheryl for putting up with Lucy. When an author keeps you guessing and invested in the story that way, you know it's a winner! Do not regret staying up all night to read it!
July 19, 2024
Honestly, all I can really say about this book is that it was short but sweet.
The romance progressed a bit too fast for my liking, it seemed like they hated each other and then loved each other within the span of 2 months...which is accurate, because that's exactly what happened. I liked the romance, don't get me wrong, but the fact that they fell too quickly almost ruined it for me. Its saving grace is that it's a very fun easy read with realistic consequences for the main cast and their dealings as well as two likeable leads that don't fall into the no-personality stereotype that we've had come up more and more often these days. Solid airplane read, something to keep you not bored and finish before your flight ends.
The romance progressed a bit too fast for my liking, it seemed like they hated each other and then loved each other within the span of 2 months...which is accurate, because that's exactly what happened. I liked the romance, don't get me wrong, but the fact that they fell too quickly almost ruined it for me. Its saving grace is that it's a very fun easy read with realistic consequences for the main cast and their dealings as well as two likeable leads that don't fall into the no-personality stereotype that we've had come up more and more often these days. Solid airplane read, something to keep you not bored and finish before your flight ends.
July 8, 2024
Okay
This book had the makings of a good book but fell a bit short. It was long winded in some places. The love scenes were buried under an avalanche of dialogue so that by the time they got to it, it was uneventful.
This book had the makings of a good book but fell a bit short. It was long winded in some places. The love scenes were buried under an avalanche of dialogue so that by the time they got to it, it was uneventful.
March 2, 2025
It started off okay. I mean, there was no editor (again) and the author was cocky enough to turn off spellcheck, but the bar on my expectations is low these days. Where did it lose me? Honestly, it was losing me the whole way, but around 50% in, I started to wonder at their character arcs. Okay, I can see it: Cheryl is learning that fame isn't everything and she misses having the privacy to be herself (whoever that is), and Gilda is learning that she is no longer satisfied with being an escort and misses having true connections. But the way in which this is happening, and what they find in each other that allows them to blossom, feels stilted. One minute they're arguing over something stupid, feeling murderous about it, and the next, they're so comfortable in each other's presence and they don't know why. Mind you, this comfortability comes before any real getting to know each other, before discussing why they hate each other, what happened with Christian, and Chery's judging of her sex work. There's just no segue, and none of it is earned.
Also, Cheryl has no subtlety; she's so desperate to be thought of as anything other than Christian's ex-wife, but she fails to have the self-awareness that is a part of the problem. She thinks about him constantly, everything seems to come back to him in some way, and she is incapable of seeing herself as an autonomous adult who deserves her fame. How can the world see you as an individual worthy of your awards if you don't? She's so damn angry at the world - the media, fellow actors, and Gilda most of all - that she takes no accountability. And she's not nearly angry enough at Christian for grooming her, exploiting her, and then cheating on her.
Also, I got the sense that this might have been fanfiction before it was an OG work, or at least that the author wrote fanfiction. Which, no judgement, but the fanfiction mentions were awkwardly placed and not well written. For instance, Cheryl admits she knows little about fanfiction or how it works, and yet, when Gilda tells her someone wrote an 'AU' about them, she doesn't need to explain what that means. Find me twenty people who have never read any FF, ask them what that is, and I promise you not even one will know. Make it make sense, or don't mention it in the story at all.
After the movie premiere, Cheryl wants to get away from it all by spending the weekend on her yacht. Fair enough, good escape. Wish I had one of those. But what bothers me is how sure she is her movie is going to fail and she thinks, '...forced to work as a garbage collector and eat frozen vegetables like a poor person.' And I just got real pissed real fast. This character is supposed to develop self-awareness and humility and one of her primary realizations is not only is fame not cracked up to what everyone (including her) thinks, but not everyone even wants fame (*cue shocked gasp*). And then she has this really superiority complex type of look on what it might be like if her lifestyle has to change because she put her life savings into this movie. You know what, fuck you. You have a fancy ass mansion, a sodding yacht, and closet full of designer. You could sell any one of those and still live better than I do. You didn't go into debt to make your movie, you just delved into your enviable savings. And worse yet, she never gets off this high horse. Because a short time later, she is paying off the rest of Gilda's debt to Simon. So...I guess you'd be fine even if the movie did fail? (Spoiler: it doesn't) And! Yes, it goes on. And she does, at the end of the book, sell her stupid mansion. For 15 fucking million. Rich bitch, poor bitch. What is her revelation here? That fame sucks, but at least she has a yacht? She doesn't love money, but she is terrified to not have caviar on the weekends? Like, relatability fail. Look, I don't care if celebrities - fictional or real - have luxuries. Whatever, if you have the money, go for it. But do not write me a character that supposedly realizes the falsity of Hollywood and the evil lure of fame and money who also happens to hate the persona crafted for her and then end with a woman who has changed, like, one iota. She's still a bitch, she has no idea what 'poor' really means, and I don't like her.
And last but not least, fuck off with the movie premier. She was outed as a straight woman who hired a female escort to sell the lie that she was gay so her movie would be more successful. Let me tell you, as a queer woman, you would not survive. Even if you 'tell the truth' (after being outed, ooh, so brave) and admit you fell in love and you really are gay and you and your escort get an HEA, my community is not so forgiving. Trust me, we can hate a gay grifter just as much as a straight one. We have been abused, exploited, fetishized, conveniently forgotten at times, made fun of, and more. If a celebrity actually did this, especially to sell a movie, she would be eaten alive. And so she should! I was not rooting for her in the end. Was she kind of conned into it by her manager? Sure, but so what? I still don't forgive you. You're a consenting adult who did something you admit you knew was wrong at the time. I know this is fiction, but I'm queer, and now I'm mad. Your movie would've flopped, we would have made sure of it. So your HEA can be damned. I wish this book had ended with her movie doing terrible, so she had to sell her mansion to survive, not because she felt like it, and she and Gilda took some time apart to sort their shit out before coming back together. Then it at least would've felt more authentic, and maybe their HEA would've been earned.
Damn, I had such high hopes for this book. Fake dating your husband's ex-mistress? Could have been enemies-to-lovers, comedy gold.
Also, Cheryl has no subtlety; she's so desperate to be thought of as anything other than Christian's ex-wife, but she fails to have the self-awareness that is a part of the problem. She thinks about him constantly, everything seems to come back to him in some way, and she is incapable of seeing herself as an autonomous adult who deserves her fame. How can the world see you as an individual worthy of your awards if you don't? She's so damn angry at the world - the media, fellow actors, and Gilda most of all - that she takes no accountability. And she's not nearly angry enough at Christian for grooming her, exploiting her, and then cheating on her.
Also, I got the sense that this might have been fanfiction before it was an OG work, or at least that the author wrote fanfiction. Which, no judgement, but the fanfiction mentions were awkwardly placed and not well written. For instance, Cheryl admits she knows little about fanfiction or how it works, and yet, when Gilda tells her someone wrote an 'AU' about them, she doesn't need to explain what that means. Find me twenty people who have never read any FF, ask them what that is, and I promise you not even one will know. Make it make sense, or don't mention it in the story at all.
After the movie premiere, Cheryl wants to get away from it all by spending the weekend on her yacht. Fair enough, good escape. Wish I had one of those. But what bothers me is how sure she is her movie is going to fail and she thinks, '...forced to work as a garbage collector and eat frozen vegetables like a poor person.' And I just got real pissed real fast. This character is supposed to develop self-awareness and humility and one of her primary realizations is not only is fame not cracked up to what everyone (including her) thinks, but not everyone even wants fame (*cue shocked gasp*). And then she has this really superiority complex type of look on what it might be like if her lifestyle has to change because she put her life savings into this movie. You know what, fuck you. You have a fancy ass mansion, a sodding yacht, and closet full of designer. You could sell any one of those and still live better than I do. You didn't go into debt to make your movie, you just delved into your enviable savings. And worse yet, she never gets off this high horse. Because a short time later, she is paying off the rest of Gilda's debt to Simon. So...I guess you'd be fine even if the movie did fail? (Spoiler: it doesn't) And! Yes, it goes on. And she does, at the end of the book, sell her stupid mansion. For 15 fucking million. Rich bitch, poor bitch. What is her revelation here? That fame sucks, but at least she has a yacht? She doesn't love money, but she is terrified to not have caviar on the weekends? Like, relatability fail. Look, I don't care if celebrities - fictional or real - have luxuries. Whatever, if you have the money, go for it. But do not write me a character that supposedly realizes the falsity of Hollywood and the evil lure of fame and money who also happens to hate the persona crafted for her and then end with a woman who has changed, like, one iota. She's still a bitch, she has no idea what 'poor' really means, and I don't like her.
And last but not least, fuck off with the movie premier. She was outed as a straight woman who hired a female escort to sell the lie that she was gay so her movie would be more successful. Let me tell you, as a queer woman, you would not survive. Even if you 'tell the truth' (after being outed, ooh, so brave) and admit you fell in love and you really are gay and you and your escort get an HEA, my community is not so forgiving. Trust me, we can hate a gay grifter just as much as a straight one. We have been abused, exploited, fetishized, conveniently forgotten at times, made fun of, and more. If a celebrity actually did this, especially to sell a movie, she would be eaten alive. And so she should! I was not rooting for her in the end. Was she kind of conned into it by her manager? Sure, but so what? I still don't forgive you. You're a consenting adult who did something you admit you knew was wrong at the time. I know this is fiction, but I'm queer, and now I'm mad. Your movie would've flopped, we would have made sure of it. So your HEA can be damned. I wish this book had ended with her movie doing terrible, so she had to sell her mansion to survive, not because she felt like it, and she and Gilda took some time apart to sort their shit out before coming back together. Then it at least would've felt more authentic, and maybe their HEA would've been earned.
Damn, I had such high hopes for this book. Fake dating your husband's ex-mistress? Could have been enemies-to-lovers, comedy gold.
June 25, 2024
This is a nice slow-burn sapphic romance with one of my favourite tropes: fake dating to HEA. I liked the premise and was rooting for the characters.
June 25, 2024
This is the second book By Isla that I have read and just wow. I absolutely loved it.
I couldn’t find it in me to pick a favourite between Gilda and Cheryl. They are both amazing characters that have such strong personalities. I loved watching as they helped and encouraged each other to change and be unapologetically themselves.
The book itself was well written. It completely sucked me in. I didn’t want to put it down for a second. From the moment they met, I was invested. I couldn’t help but smile like an idiot when they finally admitted they had feelings for one another.
The dramatic elements of this book just added an extra touch that made it all the more enjoyable. It had me on the edge of my seat at some points, waiting to see what would happen next.
The spice and the connection they had when together was great to read. The chemistry they had both inside and outside of the bedroom was something else.
The side characters also held a depth to them that made me intrigued to learn some of their stories, especially Maeve and Therese. They seemed like great characters.
I could continue to talk about this book for multiple more slides but I will cut it short here. This book was nothing but wonderful. I couldn’t find anything negative to say about it.
I can definitely say that Isla is one of my favourite authors. I can’t recommend you to read this book enough. I can say for certain that I will be rereading it as well as reading more books written by Isla.
This book is most definitely worth reading. If it’s on your tbr I recommend jumping it up to be the next book you read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I couldn’t find it in me to pick a favourite between Gilda and Cheryl. They are both amazing characters that have such strong personalities. I loved watching as they helped and encouraged each other to change and be unapologetically themselves.
The book itself was well written. It completely sucked me in. I didn’t want to put it down for a second. From the moment they met, I was invested. I couldn’t help but smile like an idiot when they finally admitted they had feelings for one another.
The dramatic elements of this book just added an extra touch that made it all the more enjoyable. It had me on the edge of my seat at some points, waiting to see what would happen next.
The spice and the connection they had when together was great to read. The chemistry they had both inside and outside of the bedroom was something else.
The side characters also held a depth to them that made me intrigued to learn some of their stories, especially Maeve and Therese. They seemed like great characters.
I could continue to talk about this book for multiple more slides but I will cut it short here. This book was nothing but wonderful. I couldn’t find anything negative to say about it.
I can definitely say that Isla is one of my favourite authors. I can’t recommend you to read this book enough. I can say for certain that I will be rereading it as well as reading more books written by Isla.
This book is most definitely worth reading. If it’s on your tbr I recommend jumping it up to be the next book you read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
June 24, 2024
I Absolutely loved this book!
The chemistry between Cheryl and Gilda, whether they are staring daggers at each other or stealing furtive glances when they think no one is looking, is electric!
Cheryl Bourne is a recently divorced Hollywood star trying to rebuild her life and her career now that she is out from under the thumb of her controlling director ex-husband, Christian. Gilda Jones is the escort she caught Christian in bed with that ended their marriage.
Cheryl is just months away from the premier of her upcoming first film without Christian, which might just be a lesbian landmark film and that the newly out bisexual leading lady, Claire, has been promoting as a lesbian film. So Lucy, her publicist, has a genius idea, because, "women who like women are really into feminist cinematic masterpieces with naked tits."
Lucy's idea: Since Claire coming out as bi had been such a big hit and opened up such a big new potential market for the movie, Cheryl should pretend to be a lesbian, complete with a fake girlfriend to fully sell the new angle on this film! And who did Lucy choose to be this fake girlfriend? Gilda, the home-wrecking slut, of course!
Now these two enemies navigate a fraught series of photo shoots, red carpets, interviews, and fake dates all under the scrutinizing eyes of the world. They both have their reasons to keep their secrets, Cheryl to maintain her status and pride, Gilda to secure a much needed pay day. Will they be able to fake it for fame, or will it all fall apart?
The chemistry between Cheryl and Gilda, whether they are staring daggers at each other or stealing furtive glances when they think no one is looking, is electric!
Cheryl Bourne is a recently divorced Hollywood star trying to rebuild her life and her career now that she is out from under the thumb of her controlling director ex-husband, Christian. Gilda Jones is the escort she caught Christian in bed with that ended their marriage.
Cheryl is just months away from the premier of her upcoming first film without Christian, which might just be a lesbian landmark film and that the newly out bisexual leading lady, Claire, has been promoting as a lesbian film. So Lucy, her publicist, has a genius idea, because, "women who like women are really into feminist cinematic masterpieces with naked tits."
Lucy's idea: Since Claire coming out as bi had been such a big hit and opened up such a big new potential market for the movie, Cheryl should pretend to be a lesbian, complete with a fake girlfriend to fully sell the new angle on this film! And who did Lucy choose to be this fake girlfriend? Gilda, the home-wrecking slut, of course!
Now these two enemies navigate a fraught series of photo shoots, red carpets, interviews, and fake dates all under the scrutinizing eyes of the world. They both have their reasons to keep their secrets, Cheryl to maintain her status and pride, Gilda to secure a much needed pay day. Will they be able to fake it for fame, or will it all fall apart?
June 24, 2024
What did I like about this book? Pretty much everything. Isla Briggs has a style of writing that is very natural and fun. So, it was a pleasure to hunker down on a hot and steamy summer weekend and dive into Fake for Fame. If you think you're escaping the heat, think again. This book has plenty of fire.
Cheryl is a famous actress who is divorced from her unfaithful husband. Her directing debut is heavily tied to the opening weekend gross. By hook or by crook she needs this film to do well at the box office. She agrees to pretend to have fallen in love with a woman in the hopes that the media interest will propel the ticket sales.
What could possibly go wrong? First, Cheryl insists she's not gay and not attracted to women, but being the award winning actress that she is she will fake it. Second, enter the love interest, Gilda, who happens to be the professional escort that she caught in bed with her husband.
Isla Briggs takes a really crazy idea and wrote herself a great story. What happens when the person you think you hate most is the one you can't stop thinking about? Soon, the forced proximity of fake dating bleeds into sexual tension. Think of a match and tinder. Now, strike the match. Congratulations. You built a fire.
That's what Fake for Fame is like. So, go ahead. Strike the match.
Cheryl is a famous actress who is divorced from her unfaithful husband. Her directing debut is heavily tied to the opening weekend gross. By hook or by crook she needs this film to do well at the box office. She agrees to pretend to have fallen in love with a woman in the hopes that the media interest will propel the ticket sales.
What could possibly go wrong? First, Cheryl insists she's not gay and not attracted to women, but being the award winning actress that she is she will fake it. Second, enter the love interest, Gilda, who happens to be the professional escort that she caught in bed with her husband.
Isla Briggs takes a really crazy idea and wrote herself a great story. What happens when the person you think you hate most is the one you can't stop thinking about? Soon, the forced proximity of fake dating bleeds into sexual tension. Think of a match and tinder. Now, strike the match. Congratulations. You built a fire.
That's what Fake for Fame is like. So, go ahead. Strike the match.
June 25, 2024
This is the first book by Isla that I have read. Initially I thought it was a bit slow but about half way through the excitement really kicks off and I was hooked. From then on in I really struggled to put it down so that I could go to sleep. This became increasingly so as the drama intensified.
The story included to strong main characters, Cheryl and Gilda. Cheryl is an actress, turned producer who has come out of a less than satisfying marriage after coming home to find her husband in bed with another woman. Meanwhile Gilda, a professional escort, is that other woman.
When it is pointed out to Cheryl that her latest movie has a lesbian plot line, her manager comes up with the grand plan to hire an escort to pretend to be Cheryl's new love interest and for Cheryl to come out, even though she is actually straight. However she unknownly recruits the one woman that Cheryl absolutely hates. However, with no other option than to do whatever it takes to ensure that the launch weekend for her new movie is a success, Cheryl is reluctantly convinced to go along with the plot.
The end result is sexual tension that is off the charts.
I will definitely be looking for more books from Isla Briggs to read in the future.
I am grateful to the author for the advanced copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
The story included to strong main characters, Cheryl and Gilda. Cheryl is an actress, turned producer who has come out of a less than satisfying marriage after coming home to find her husband in bed with another woman. Meanwhile Gilda, a professional escort, is that other woman.
When it is pointed out to Cheryl that her latest movie has a lesbian plot line, her manager comes up with the grand plan to hire an escort to pretend to be Cheryl's new love interest and for Cheryl to come out, even though she is actually straight. However she unknownly recruits the one woman that Cheryl absolutely hates. However, with no other option than to do whatever it takes to ensure that the launch weekend for her new movie is a success, Cheryl is reluctantly convinced to go along with the plot.
The end result is sexual tension that is off the charts.
I will definitely be looking for more books from Isla Briggs to read in the future.
I am grateful to the author for the advanced copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
July 21, 2024
I thought that this was a really good debut. The premise was unique with the Hollywood starlet fake dating her ex husband’s escort, however I’m not sure how realistic it is to expect a scheme like that to remain a secret when you hire a well known escort to do the job. Still, the characters were strong and easy to like. They also showed a lot of growth throughout the story. I think that the character development might have been my favorite part.
Another thing I liked about this book was the relationship between Gilda and Cheryl (and not just for the spice). They were so supportive of each other. It was really lovely how they tried to build each other up when enemies wanted to tear them down. The reader really gets the sense that they would do anything to keep the other safe and happy.
Again, I thought this book was a great debut and I can’t wait to read whatever is next from Isla Briggs. I’d recommend this book to someone looking for a spicy Hollywood romance with fake dating thrown in the mix. Thanks so much to Isla Briggs for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Another thing I liked about this book was the relationship between Gilda and Cheryl (and not just for the spice). They were so supportive of each other. It was really lovely how they tried to build each other up when enemies wanted to tear them down. The reader really gets the sense that they would do anything to keep the other safe and happy.
Again, I thought this book was a great debut and I can’t wait to read whatever is next from Isla Briggs. I’d recommend this book to someone looking for a spicy Hollywood romance with fake dating thrown in the mix. Thanks so much to Isla Briggs for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2024
This is the first full length book by Isla Briggs and I really enjoyed it! I love a good toaster oven story and this was that…and more. The drama of hiring the same escort that you caught with your husband was jaw dropping and simply delicious! It made me snigger and I appreciated this extra bit of scandalous content. I didn’t know how these two could overcome their past…especially Cheryl! But they do! Cheryl and Gilda are essentially thrust together in an unconventional and uncomfortable situation that I found wonderfully entertaining! The whole thing was salacious but still heartfelt. The real connection that blossoms between Cheryl and Gilda seemed to grow organically and was wonderfully written. Fun, sweet, and truly captivating read! Definitely worth a read to anyone considering it! Received an ARC for my honest review. Thank you to Isla Briggs for this exciting read! Looking forward to reading what you next create!
June 23, 2024
I was given a copy in advance to read it and write an honest review.
It's an enemy to lover and toaster story, set in Hollywood. For publicity reasons, Cheryl is said to be faking a lesbian relationship with escort Gilda. What her agent doesn't know is that Gilda slept with Cheryl's ex-husband Christian and Cheryl caught her. Since then, she hates Gilda. How Cheryl overcomes her hatred and Gilda learns to trust her is an exciting journey. It's light entertainment with important developments, as we would like to see as lgbtq+. A happy ending is foreseeable, with some complications.
Isla Briggs publishes her first book here. I already liked her debut, even if it was too short. Some sentences are a bit bumpy for me, but I assume that it's because English is not my native language.
It's an enemy to lover and toaster story, set in Hollywood. For publicity reasons, Cheryl is said to be faking a lesbian relationship with escort Gilda. What her agent doesn't know is that Gilda slept with Cheryl's ex-husband Christian and Cheryl caught her. Since then, she hates Gilda. How Cheryl overcomes her hatred and Gilda learns to trust her is an exciting journey. It's light entertainment with important developments, as we would like to see as lgbtq+. A happy ending is foreseeable, with some complications.
Isla Briggs publishes her first book here. I already liked her debut, even if it was too short. Some sentences are a bit bumpy for me, but I assume that it's because English is not my native language.
June 25, 2024
I loved this book. For starters it’s a fresh, original story and it was done very well. A sex-worker and a famous actress…. Sounds more like the beginning of a joke and is definitely not something you come across everyday.
Cheryl and Gilda smouldered on the pages well before the two knew it themselves. They were also hilarious together. My favourite line was “you’re so much more bearable when you stop talking” which highlights the fun and wit found amongst the pages.
One of the things I liked best is that it wasn’t all a Hollywood dream. I won’t say more than that as I don’t want to give away spoilers but it was refreshing that some things didn’t work out how you thought they would. It added a layer of realism, not something you find much of in Hollywood.
Cheryl and Gilda smouldered on the pages well before the two knew it themselves. They were also hilarious together. My favourite line was “you’re so much more bearable when you stop talking” which highlights the fun and wit found amongst the pages.
One of the things I liked best is that it wasn’t all a Hollywood dream. I won’t say more than that as I don’t want to give away spoilers but it was refreshing that some things didn’t work out how you thought they would. It added a layer of realism, not something you find much of in Hollywood.
June 29, 2024
I had a hard time liking this book in the beginning, mostly because of the career of one of the MCs. In any romantic novels, it is very difficult to love a sex worker, but the author surprised me once again. As I read on, the couple slowly grow on me, make me forget my initial unease with the escort and start rooting for them. Even though I don't think the fake to be lesbian scheme makes any sense, I understand that it is a plot to force the two very different woman intimately interacting with each other, fake it until the feeling becomes true. The writing is brilliant, the pace is just right and there is no unnecessary dramas. You need to have an open mind to really enjoy this book, after all, love is blind and unexpected.
August 15, 2024
I didn't like how cagey Gilda was being at times, and I understood her better at the end, but I still didn't like that aspect of her character. It was well written and a nice story, with some common tropes seen in this "fake it till you make it" type of sapphic romance. They weren't necessarily enemies, such as they just didn't really understand each other, yet. Eventually, they make some headway in that, but I felt a bit unsatisfied at the ending with no mentions of either side of their family really.
I know that escorting and Hollywood worlds can be a prison, for some sure, but I also know that there are real people in the industry who would have the connections to, eventually, take down someone like Silas.
I know that escorting and Hollywood worlds can be a prison, for some sure, but I also know that there are real people in the industry who would have the connections to, eventually, take down someone like Silas.
June 27, 2024
Faking For Fame is an entertaining read, with main characters who learn a lot about themselves and each other. The premise of a very well-known, Oscar winning actress faking a lesbian relationship with the woman her ex-husband cheated on her with, is a bit far-fetched. The idea that Cheryl actually falls in love with Gilda, the escort her ex was involved with, is far-far-fetched. But, Cheryl and Gilda each come to understand themselves, and love themselves, by way of the fake relationship and subsequent movie disaster. And that this turns out to be a happily-ever-after? Heck - it’s only a movie, right? I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest review.
July 1, 2024
A little slow to begin, but it gets rolling a few chapters later. I had trouble following why Cheryl needed to fake date in the first place. I also couldn’t believe she would go through with it after she found out the escort was someone she hated.
As I read on, I could see how their relationship changed and grew into a romance. Gilda really poured on the syrup and made Cheryl all gooey with feelings.
Overall a good read. Isla added many humorous lines that had me chuckling. It did have some editing errors that should’ve been caught, but nothing major that drew me out of the story. If you’re looking for a quick, rainy day, curl up on your couch read here it is.
As I read on, I could see how their relationship changed and grew into a romance. Gilda really poured on the syrup and made Cheryl all gooey with feelings.
Overall a good read. Isla added many humorous lines that had me chuckling. It did have some editing errors that should’ve been caught, but nothing major that drew me out of the story. If you’re looking for a quick, rainy day, curl up on your couch read here it is.
April 21, 2025
3.75⭐️ all right where do i start? first i don’t like the book cover, it doesn’t fit with the vibe of the book: somehow it feels like it’s going to be spicy but it really wasn’t. second, there’s not a lot of “enemies to lovers” feeling, or at least, it doesn’t last long. third, i feel that we could have get to know more about gilda’s feeling for cheryl, other than it felt like a fun challenge. the whole narrative of queerbating was hard to read. despite all of this, the characters were enjoyable, the paste was good and i really enjoyed the banter between them. it was a quick and fun read and i was entertained.
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