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The Love Match #2
The Love Lie
A city girl.
A country boy.
A fake engagement in front of 10 million viewers.
What could possibly go wrong?
To some people, a proposal in the Maldives would be an absolute dream. To Samantha Peters, it’s a certifiable nightmare. Because she’s pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a massively popular reality TV show and her potential fiancé is an annoying (and annoyingly sexy) cowboy who refuses to let her win a single argument. When a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged, they have no choice but to figure it out together.
Their plan is simple. Spend a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after.
There’s only one problem. Between jet skis, yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, these two opposites constantly at one another's throats start to see each other in a new light. Maybe Sam is more than a workaholic with an iron heart. Maybe Cooper isn’t just a cocky cowboy with a restless spirit. But no matter how big the attraction between them grows, the rules are set. They absolutely cannot fall in love. Right?
The Unhoneymooners meets Flawless in this standalone second installment of The Love Match series, perfect for fans of fake engagements, enemies to lovers, cowboy romances, forced proximity, opposites attract, only one bungalow, reality television, tropical locations, and dual POV!
A country boy.
A fake engagement in front of 10 million viewers.
What could possibly go wrong?
To some people, a proposal in the Maldives would be an absolute dream. To Samantha Peters, it’s a certifiable nightmare. Because she’s pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a massively popular reality TV show and her potential fiancé is an annoying (and annoyingly sexy) cowboy who refuses to let her win a single argument. When a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged, they have no choice but to figure it out together.
Their plan is simple. Spend a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after.
There’s only one problem. Between jet skis, yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, these two opposites constantly at one another's throats start to see each other in a new light. Maybe Sam is more than a workaholic with an iron heart. Maybe Cooper isn’t just a cocky cowboy with a restless spirit. But no matter how big the attraction between them grows, the rules are set. They absolutely cannot fall in love. Right?
The Unhoneymooners meets Flawless in this standalone second installment of The Love Match series, perfect for fans of fake engagements, enemies to lovers, cowboy romances, forced proximity, opposites attract, only one bungalow, reality television, tropical locations, and dual POV!
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2024
40 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Kay Marie
11 books458 followersKay Marie writes sweet romantic comedies with a touch of spice. Her books are full of humor and heartache with lots of swoony moments and, of course, a HEA! Under the name Kaitlyn Davis, she also publishes YA fantasy. Publishers Weekly has said, "Davis writes with confidence and poise," while USA Today has recommended her work as "must-read romance."
Find more on her website: www.KayMarieBooks.com
Sign up for her newsletter to stay up-to-date with all of her new releases, to receive exclusive subscriber bonus content, and more: www.kaymariebooks.com/my-newsletters
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Twitter - @DavisKaitlyn
To learn more about her young adult novels, visit her Goodreads author page for Kaitlyn Davis here: https://www.goodreads.com/Kaitlyn_Davis
Find more on her website: www.KayMarieBooks.com
Sign up for her newsletter to stay up-to-date with all of her new releases, to receive exclusive subscriber bonus content, and more: www.kaymariebooks.com/my-newsletters
Or find her on social media:
Instagram: @KayMarieBooks
TikTok: @KayMarieBooks
Facebook - Facebook.com/KaitlynDavisBooks/
Twitter - @DavisKaitlyn
To learn more about her young adult novels, visit her Goodreads author page for Kaitlyn Davis here: https://www.goodreads.com/Kaitlyn_Davis
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
December 28, 2024
2.5⭐️ | TikTok | IG |⭐️ | TikTok |
- opposites attract
- fake engagement
- twin-swap
- force-proximity
- cowboy MC
- dual POV
Sam’s sister needs to chase after her one true love and leave the Bachelor style reality TV show before the final engagement episode, so Sam agrees to take her place (parent-trap twin switch anyone?) all she has to do is let the last two men standing down gently, on national television. Except Cooper walks out and he’s so damn hot Sam loses her mind and says yes to his proposal. No big deal they just have to be fake engaged and spend a week in a bungalow together, then they can break up on the follow up episode - without anyone finding out they are fake engaged and without anyone finding out Sam isn’t her sister.
Great concept, mid execution.
I could not handle the constant (every other line) comments on how bad they wanted each other. If you’re ok with insta-lust then you might be able to look past that and get to the better part (second half). I also couldn’t handle the entire chapter of text message conversation. Why?
Thank you NetGalley and Xpresso Reads for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
- opposites attract
- fake engagement
- twin-swap
- force-proximity
- cowboy MC
- dual POV
Sam’s sister needs to chase after her one true love and leave the Bachelor style reality TV show before the final engagement episode, so Sam agrees to take her place (parent-trap twin switch anyone?) all she has to do is let the last two men standing down gently, on national television. Except Cooper walks out and he’s so damn hot Sam loses her mind and says yes to his proposal. No big deal they just have to be fake engaged and spend a week in a bungalow together, then they can break up on the follow up episode - without anyone finding out they are fake engaged and without anyone finding out Sam isn’t her sister.
Great concept, mid execution.
I could not handle the constant (every other line) comments on how bad they wanted each other. If you’re ok with insta-lust then you might be able to look past that and get to the better part (second half). I also couldn’t handle the entire chapter of text message conversation. Why?
Thank you NetGalley and Xpresso Reads for sending this book (eARC) for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
July 12, 2024
Rating: 3.5⭐️
It took me a while to get into this book, but once I did, I had so much fun! I definitely enjoyed this book more than the first and that is all because of our two leads, Sam and Cooper. They were just so entertaining and likeable. They had great chemistry from the start (a bit of insta-lust?) and their playfulness and banter won me over. I admired Sam’s strength and I gushed over Cooper’s devotion to Sam. They were characters that were great on their own, but amazing together.
However, I did have some issues with the book. The first half was really slow for me. I think the reality TV aspect didn’t work for me. I was more invested in the story once the characters got away from the cameras. The way the twin swap was resolved also didn’t make too much sense to me. People on social media are very eagle-eyed and there was just no way they wouldn’t rewatch the show and notice that Sam wasn’t there all the time.
All in all, this was still a fun and quick light hearted romcom. There are some hints at the leads of the third book and I’m intrigued to see how that plays out …
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
It took me a while to get into this book, but once I did, I had so much fun! I definitely enjoyed this book more than the first and that is all because of our two leads, Sam and Cooper. They were just so entertaining and likeable. They had great chemistry from the start (a bit of insta-lust?) and their playfulness and banter won me over. I admired Sam’s strength and I gushed over Cooper’s devotion to Sam. They were characters that were great on their own, but amazing together.
However, I did have some issues with the book. The first half was really slow for me. I think the reality TV aspect didn’t work for me. I was more invested in the story once the characters got away from the cameras. The way the twin swap was resolved also didn’t make too much sense to me. People on social media are very eagle-eyed and there was just no way they wouldn’t rewatch the show and notice that Sam wasn’t there all the time.
All in all, this was still a fun and quick light hearted romcom. There are some hints at the leads of the third book and I’m intrigued to see how that plays out …
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 12, 2024
I really liked this!! It was a fun twist on a cowboy romance with a city girl. I thought the twist of a game show as the backdrop was a nice touch. I liked both of the MCs a lot. Sam was smart and sharp and a protector but underneath all of that we learned that she was terrified of being hurt again. Cooper was just a ball of gooeyness. He was so wonderful! I loved the instant chemistry between these two. It felt so genuine and HOT. I also loved how much Sam fought it for good reason in her head. The delay just makes the inevitable that much better- and man was it worth the wait. I liked watching Cooper and hearing what he thought vs how he acted around Sam. He tried to be all cool, calm and collected when internally he was a jar of fireflies. I did end up getting a LITTLE annoyed with Sam and how much she resisted her feelings. I get not wanting to be hurt but hurting that way is sometimes worse. I liked meeting Cooper's friends and that setting and seeing how well Sam fit there.
Sam is on a mission. She owes her sister the world, and if this is what she needs her to do then she will do it. This being switching places with her on the dating show she signed up for. She just has to tell Cooper no when he asks her to marry him. The problem is that Sam finds herself saying yes. She finds herself affected by a man in a way she hasn't experienced yet. She realizes her error and though now her and Cooper are supposed to be on their honeymoon, she resists. She cannot go there with him. It would ruin her sister. So they pretend. They have fun when they are out and about and act like they are madly in love, but behind closed doors they are strangers. Until she can't resist anymore. I mean what could really happen. Nothing can come of it. So they give in to what they are feeling, and OMG is it worth it. But now they have to go their separate ways. And though she thought she would be relieved, she is miserable. So when she gets a call from the producer that she has to go to Cooper's ranch for a check in. She is all in. She wants this but only for when they see each other. Or at least that's what she tells herself. But then she is at the ranch and she feels more at home than she has in NY like ever. But she can't move there. She can't uproot her life for a practical stranger can she?
Cooper knows what he is walking into for this proposal. His counterpart is going to say no and then he will go back to his ranch and hope that this crazy plan he did works. That they will get some notoriety that might help save it. What he does not expect is for her to say yes. That is when he realizes that he hasn't proposed to Emily but to her twin sister Sam. And he finds himself excited that she said yes. He is feeling things he hasn't felt for a woman like ever. Instant attraction. He wants to explore this thing between them. Who knows what could happen. But then she says they can pretend to be happy while out and about on this "honeymoon" of theirs but when they are home, they will be strangers. Well what can he do but say yes. Internally, he is determined to bring down her walls. And he is successful the last night before they part ways. He has the best night ever. He thinks maybe something can happen between them, but then he wakes up and she is gone. He isn't going to give up though. So when he gets a call from the producer saying that Sam is going to be coming to visit. He is ready. He is going to knock her socks off. He is going to show her what life could be like on the ranch. Because he has finally realized what he is feeling and he isn't going to let her slip away again without her knowing it.
Overall this was a very enjoyable read. I am planning on going back to read the last one and also look forward to reading book 3 about Sam's roommate Winnie and her brother's BF/teammate. I like the twist that these all have around a dating show. It made it a little different from your standard romance. I would definitely recommend this one if you haven't tried it yet!
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review :)
Sam is on a mission. She owes her sister the world, and if this is what she needs her to do then she will do it. This being switching places with her on the dating show she signed up for. She just has to tell Cooper no when he asks her to marry him. The problem is that Sam finds herself saying yes. She finds herself affected by a man in a way she hasn't experienced yet. She realizes her error and though now her and Cooper are supposed to be on their honeymoon, she resists. She cannot go there with him. It would ruin her sister. So they pretend. They have fun when they are out and about and act like they are madly in love, but behind closed doors they are strangers. Until she can't resist anymore. I mean what could really happen. Nothing can come of it. So they give in to what they are feeling, and OMG is it worth it. But now they have to go their separate ways. And though she thought she would be relieved, she is miserable. So when she gets a call from the producer that she has to go to Cooper's ranch for a check in. She is all in. She wants this but only for when they see each other. Or at least that's what she tells herself. But then she is at the ranch and she feels more at home than she has in NY like ever. But she can't move there. She can't uproot her life for a practical stranger can she?
Cooper knows what he is walking into for this proposal. His counterpart is going to say no and then he will go back to his ranch and hope that this crazy plan he did works. That they will get some notoriety that might help save it. What he does not expect is for her to say yes. That is when he realizes that he hasn't proposed to Emily but to her twin sister Sam. And he finds himself excited that she said yes. He is feeling things he hasn't felt for a woman like ever. Instant attraction. He wants to explore this thing between them. Who knows what could happen. But then she says they can pretend to be happy while out and about on this "honeymoon" of theirs but when they are home, they will be strangers. Well what can he do but say yes. Internally, he is determined to bring down her walls. And he is successful the last night before they part ways. He has the best night ever. He thinks maybe something can happen between them, but then he wakes up and she is gone. He isn't going to give up though. So when he gets a call from the producer saying that Sam is going to be coming to visit. He is ready. He is going to knock her socks off. He is going to show her what life could be like on the ranch. Because he has finally realized what he is feeling and he isn't going to let her slip away again without her knowing it.
Overall this was a very enjoyable read. I am planning on going back to read the last one and also look forward to reading book 3 about Sam's roommate Winnie and her brother's BF/teammate. I like the twist that these all have around a dating show. It made it a little different from your standard romance. I would definitely recommend this one if you haven't tried it yet!
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review :)
October 6, 2024
The Love Lie was effortless to love! With a fake engagement, forced proximity, and opposites attract, it was so easy to obsess over this book! If you love adult romance that makes you laugh, keeps you smiling while also tugging on your heartstrings, then make sure you have this one on your tbr!
I absolutely loved Sam! She was sassy, hilarious without even trying, and so easy to click with. When she agreed to step in to take her twin sister’s place on a reality tv show, I was so excited. The tension between her and Cooper was electric. And when he got down on one knee and proposed, I was screaming with what happened next. Especially since they spent the next 5 days together in paradise!
Cooper was the ultimate book boyfriend. Not only was he a sexy cowboy, but he was also kind, thoughtful, and knew how to take charge. Everything he did just had me enamored. Whether it was his thoughts about taking a swim in the morning or well…. you’ll see…. he easily had me under my spell. Especially when we learned the reason why he signed up for the show. Swoon. Cooper loved his family and his ranch; he was such a good man.
Cooper and Sam were definitely attracted to one another, yet they had an almost enemies to lovers vibe going with the most fabulous banter. And did I mention they weren’t supposed to be engaged??? She was going to go back to the city, he was going to go back to the country. Their futures couldn’t be further apart from one another. But that didn’t stop the chemistry that was between them. Or their desire for each other. As they faked their engagement and showed how much they wanted each other to those around them, I was smiling so much! Especially when lines started to get crossed.
With snorkeling adventures, the most fabulous texting chapter ever, the helicopter, and so much more, this book was entertaining. I also loved how we got to see the depths of Sam and Cooper. Their pasts shaped them into who they were now, and they were both trying their best to move forward. But at the same time, this story was hilarious! I don’t remember the last time I laughed so much! And with feeling butterflies too, their interactions were just so much fun. This story was emotional, heartwarming, and the tension between them was steamy. Even if their moments together weren’t that steamy.
With other characters that added so much depth to the story like Nina, her sister, Wes and more, I loved this book! I still laugh out loud when I think about that Shania Twain song! And there’s a whole latter part of this book that I won’t even be talking about……but that place and those moments, they were some of my absolute favorites! So, with a fabulous happily ever after, this book ended so beautifully! I can’t recommend it enough.
PS The little bit that we spent with Tyler I’m already obsessed! I can’t wait for his book!
PPS While this book can be read as a standalone, it'll definitely spoil the previous book and couple for you.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Personal Instagram * Blog Instagram * Facebook * Twitter * Bloglovin * Feedly
She freezes. Her heart flips. Just like that, the cameras and the crew all fade. The world around her blurs until the only thing in perfect clarity is the man striding confidently toward her.
I absolutely loved Sam! She was sassy, hilarious without even trying, and so easy to click with. When she agreed to step in to take her twin sister’s place on a reality tv show, I was so excited. The tension between her and Cooper was electric. And when he got down on one knee and proposed, I was screaming with what happened next. Especially since they spent the next 5 days together in paradise!
She’s in nothing but a thong, high heels, and his hat.
Cooper sucks in a sharp breath.
Sam grins.
Cooper was the ultimate book boyfriend. Not only was he a sexy cowboy, but he was also kind, thoughtful, and knew how to take charge. Everything he did just had me enamored. Whether it was his thoughts about taking a swim in the morning or well…. you’ll see…. he easily had me under my spell. Especially when we learned the reason why he signed up for the show. Swoon. Cooper loved his family and his ranch; he was such a good man.
His balls might not survive it.
His heart definitely won’t.
Because he likes it. Likes the fire in her eyes. Likes the silent dare. Likes the confidence. Likes the challenge.
Cooper and Sam were definitely attracted to one another, yet they had an almost enemies to lovers vibe going with the most fabulous banter. And did I mention they weren’t supposed to be engaged??? She was going to go back to the city, he was going to go back to the country. Their futures couldn’t be further apart from one another. But that didn’t stop the chemistry that was between them. Or their desire for each other. As they faked their engagement and showed how much they wanted each other to those around them, I was smiling so much! Especially when lines started to get crossed.
“This is a bad idea,” she whispers, even as she leans the slightest bit closer.
“The best ones always are.”
With snorkeling adventures, the most fabulous texting chapter ever, the helicopter, and so much more, this book was entertaining. I also loved how we got to see the depths of Sam and Cooper. Their pasts shaped them into who they were now, and they were both trying their best to move forward. But at the same time, this story was hilarious! I don’t remember the last time I laughed so much! And with feeling butterflies too, their interactions were just so much fun. This story was emotional, heartwarming, and the tension between them was steamy. Even if their moments together weren’t that steamy.
“Because the first time I kissed you, it was for them. I don’t plan on making that mistake again.”
With other characters that added so much depth to the story like Nina, her sister, Wes and more, I loved this book! I still laugh out loud when I think about that Shania Twain song! And there’s a whole latter part of this book that I won’t even be talking about……but that place and those moments, they were some of my absolute favorites! So, with a fabulous happily ever after, this book ended so beautifully! I can’t recommend it enough.
Winnie to Sam: I left a present on your pillow when you get home.
Sam: Oh my god. Stop hiding romance novels around my room. MY LIFE IS NOT A ROM-COM.
Winnie: Obviously not.
Winnie: It’s a Western.
PS The little bit that we spent with Tyler I’m already obsessed! I can’t wait for his book!
PPS While this book can be read as a standalone, it'll definitely spoil the previous book and couple for you.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Personal Instagram * Blog Instagram * Facebook * Twitter * Bloglovin * Feedly
August 25, 2024
Thank you, Kay Marie, for an ARC of this book.
This book picks up right where "The Love Rematch" ends. It can be read as a standalone—you will be told everything you need to know—but it will also spoil "The Love Rematch" if you wanted to read that.
This book has fake engagement, insta-lust, forced proximity, and a cowboy.
It took me some time to get into this book. The first part felt a bit slow, but as soon as we got to the next part of the story, I really enjoyed it. I wish we got to see more of Sam's healing, but all in all, it's a lovely and fun story.
This book picks up right where "The Love Rematch" ends. It can be read as a standalone—you will be told everything you need to know—but it will also spoil "The Love Rematch" if you wanted to read that.
This book has fake engagement, insta-lust, forced proximity, and a cowboy.
It took me some time to get into this book. The first part felt a bit slow, but as soon as we got to the next part of the story, I really enjoyed it. I wish we got to see more of Sam's healing, but all in all, it's a lovely and fun story.
August 16, 2024
“Because the first time I kissed you, it was for them. I don’t plan on making that mistake again.”
Thank you to NetGalley and Kay Marie for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
To some people, a proposal in the Maldives would be an absolute dream. To Samantha Peters, it’s a certifiable nightmare. Because she’s pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a massively popular reality TV show and her potential fiancé is an annoying (and annoyingly sexy) cowboy who refuses to let her win a single argument. When a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged, they have no choice but to figure it out together. Their plan is simple. Spend a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after. There’s only one problem. Between jet skis, yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, these two opposites constantly at one another's throats start to see each other in a new light. Maybe Sam is more than a workaholic with an iron heart. Maybe Cooper isn’t just a cocky cowboy with a restless spirit. But no matter how big the attraction between them grows, the rules are set. They absolutely cannot fall in love. Right?
Sam is, without a doubt, a girl boss. She moves confidently through her carefully planned life, all in the name of growing herself and providing for her family. So it was rather fun getting to watch her careful laid plans and confident demeanour slip more and more as the book went on. Something I really liked and appreciated about Sam was that she knew she was capable, she knew she has confidence in what she does, but she still allowed herself to be vulnerable. It took a while for it to be in the presence of others but it was so good to see her take that step and allow herself to feel. She’s still a boss at everything she does - but now she is even more.
We got to know Cooper a fair amount in the first book, but here we really get deep into who he is and how he thinks. And he is just the biggest teddy bear ever and I would like my own personal cowboy, please and thank you. He’s kind, he’s considerate and puts everyone above himself. He does his very best to bring Sam out of her shell and he does it in such a clever way that I know I wouldn’t mind him working his magic on me! One order for a Cooper right here!
Having thoroughly enjoyed the first book - The Love Match - I knew I wanted to jump at the chance to read the sequel. It intrigued me that the focus would be on Emily’s sister navigating this unorthodox situation with dear Cooper and I wanted to know more! And I’m so glad I got to read this. I actually quite liked that it took a big step away from the show and that we got to know our characters in a different light. The pacing was excellent and it was so easy to just sit down and read the book. I could pick it up and just instantly fall into the story - which is exactly what I want when I read! Character wise, it is predominantly familiar faces - though there are a few new ones in there too! Most importantly, we got to know our leads more through having their POVs switch throughout the book and I really think Marie did a fabulous job with them. Of course, there is plenty of romance to be had here. I’m a big lover of the fake dating trope so I wish we got to see this in action a little more. It just felt a little lacking considering the idea it’s all based off a tv show. But the fluffiness and the angstiness and the drama? I was living for it! It had my emotions all over the place and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. There was some nice spicy moments scattered across the book - made better, of course, by the building tension - and I could not get enough of them. There is the right balance of descriptive smut and hinting towards it as well. It would be too one-note and could risk being boring if it was constant smut throughout. The ending was absolute perfection for me! It wasn’t entirely what I was expecting would happen but that made it all the more exciting. I am rather thrilled that there is going to be a third instalment for this series - I cannot seem to get enough!
Overall, The Love Lie is a stunning sequel that had me swooning throughout.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to NetGalley and Kay Marie for an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kay Marie for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
To some people, a proposal in the Maldives would be an absolute dream. To Samantha Peters, it’s a certifiable nightmare. Because she’s pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a massively popular reality TV show and her potential fiancé is an annoying (and annoyingly sexy) cowboy who refuses to let her win a single argument. When a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged, they have no choice but to figure it out together. Their plan is simple. Spend a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after. There’s only one problem. Between jet skis, yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, these two opposites constantly at one another's throats start to see each other in a new light. Maybe Sam is more than a workaholic with an iron heart. Maybe Cooper isn’t just a cocky cowboy with a restless spirit. But no matter how big the attraction between them grows, the rules are set. They absolutely cannot fall in love. Right?
Sam is, without a doubt, a girl boss. She moves confidently through her carefully planned life, all in the name of growing herself and providing for her family. So it was rather fun getting to watch her careful laid plans and confident demeanour slip more and more as the book went on. Something I really liked and appreciated about Sam was that she knew she was capable, she knew she has confidence in what she does, but she still allowed herself to be vulnerable. It took a while for it to be in the presence of others but it was so good to see her take that step and allow herself to feel. She’s still a boss at everything she does - but now she is even more.
We got to know Cooper a fair amount in the first book, but here we really get deep into who he is and how he thinks. And he is just the biggest teddy bear ever and I would like my own personal cowboy, please and thank you. He’s kind, he’s considerate and puts everyone above himself. He does his very best to bring Sam out of her shell and he does it in such a clever way that I know I wouldn’t mind him working his magic on me! One order for a Cooper right here!
Having thoroughly enjoyed the first book - The Love Match - I knew I wanted to jump at the chance to read the sequel. It intrigued me that the focus would be on Emily’s sister navigating this unorthodox situation with dear Cooper and I wanted to know more! And I’m so glad I got to read this. I actually quite liked that it took a big step away from the show and that we got to know our characters in a different light. The pacing was excellent and it was so easy to just sit down and read the book. I could pick it up and just instantly fall into the story - which is exactly what I want when I read! Character wise, it is predominantly familiar faces - though there are a few new ones in there too! Most importantly, we got to know our leads more through having their POVs switch throughout the book and I really think Marie did a fabulous job with them. Of course, there is plenty of romance to be had here. I’m a big lover of the fake dating trope so I wish we got to see this in action a little more. It just felt a little lacking considering the idea it’s all based off a tv show. But the fluffiness and the angstiness and the drama? I was living for it! It had my emotions all over the place and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. There was some nice spicy moments scattered across the book - made better, of course, by the building tension - and I could not get enough of them. There is the right balance of descriptive smut and hinting towards it as well. It would be too one-note and could risk being boring if it was constant smut throughout. The ending was absolute perfection for me! It wasn’t entirely what I was expecting would happen but that made it all the more exciting. I am rather thrilled that there is going to be a third instalment for this series - I cannot seem to get enough!
Overall, The Love Lie is a stunning sequel that had me swooning throughout.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to NetGalley and Kay Marie for an advanced copy of this book.
September 6, 2024
Read This Book If…you love The Bachelorette or Shania Twain!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
The Love Lie by Kay Marie
Genre: romance
Series: The Love Match # 2
Spice Level: 2/5🌶, steamy, fade to black
Setting: Maldives, NYC, rural Nebraska
POV: dual, 3rd person, present tense
Tropes: fake engagement, insta lust, forced proximity, opposites attract, twin swap, reality tv, city girl/country boy, cowboy, one jet ski, one horse, “good girl”
My Thoughts:
I loved the first book in this series and was so excited to get the next book! There are so many tropes here that I love and they were all done well.
This book picks up right after the first, so I’d recommend reading them back to back. There’s quite a bit of setup for the second book and IT WAS WORTH IT.
These two were so horny for each other, I was begging for a little bit of spice, but besides one scene, it’s very much off-the-page. They had great chemistry and banter and I enjoyed every moment with them.
There are several parts that made me laugh out loud, so I can’t recommend this read enough!
Memorable Quote:
“What makes you so sure, cowboy?”
“We’re inevitable, darlin’.”
Thank you to the author for my advance copy!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
The Love Lie by Kay Marie
Genre: romance
Series: The Love Match # 2
Spice Level: 2/5🌶, steamy, fade to black
Setting: Maldives, NYC, rural Nebraska
POV: dual, 3rd person, present tense
Tropes: fake engagement, insta lust, forced proximity, opposites attract, twin swap, reality tv, city girl/country boy, cowboy, one jet ski, one horse, “good girl”
My Thoughts:
I loved the first book in this series and was so excited to get the next book! There are so many tropes here that I love and they were all done well.
This book picks up right after the first, so I’d recommend reading them back to back. There’s quite a bit of setup for the second book and IT WAS WORTH IT.
These two were so horny for each other, I was begging for a little bit of spice, but besides one scene, it’s very much off-the-page. They had great chemistry and banter and I enjoyed every moment with them.
There are several parts that made me laugh out loud, so I can’t recommend this read enough!
Memorable Quote:
“What makes you so sure, cowboy?”
“We’re inevitable, darlin’.”
Thank you to the author for my advance copy!
August 4, 2024
3.5 Stars
It took me a while to get into this book, I actually took a break and came back to it. It started and kind of drug, but also moved fast? I think the beginning/set up was just a bit predictable, but then once it picked up and built some intrigue I was into the plot a lot more.
I liked the twin swap storyline a lot, especially as it evolved over time. The way that was written was a lot of fun and had me giggling. I also liked Cooper a lot, but I never pictured him as the redhead he was originally described as. Definitely more Glen Powell vibes.
The story picked up and I liked how it played out. The tension was hot but the spice was low (as advertised in Kay's author bio). It was cute, but didn't grab my attention like I expected it to. It was easy to follow and pick up after a break, with a fun storyline and loveable characters. Wes and Winnie were definitely my favorites!!!
It took me a while to get into this book, I actually took a break and came back to it. It started and kind of drug, but also moved fast? I think the beginning/set up was just a bit predictable, but then once it picked up and built some intrigue I was into the plot a lot more.
I liked the twin swap storyline a lot, especially as it evolved over time. The way that was written was a lot of fun and had me giggling. I also liked Cooper a lot, but I never pictured him as the redhead he was originally described as. Definitely more Glen Powell vibes.
The story picked up and I liked how it played out. The tension was hot but the spice was low (as advertised in Kay's author bio). It was cute, but didn't grab my attention like I expected it to. It was easy to follow and pick up after a break, with a fun storyline and loveable characters. Wes and Winnie were definitely my favorites!!!
May 23, 2025
A fake engagement to a cowboy who calls her good girl? Sign. Me. Up. I don’t know what Kay Marie is putting in these books, but whatever it is—it’s dangerously addictive. The Love Lie had me hooked, reading past midnight when I knew I had a wild workday ahead. No regrets. Finished in under 24 hours. Worth it.
This book is the perfect romcom. The MMC is hot—100% swoon-worthy cowboy energy that had me blushing and grinning the whole time. The FMC is a badass bitch with the kind of confidence I only dream of—confident, real, and impossible not to root for. Their chemistry is electric. The banter, the heat, the emotional connection—it all just works. Their relationship? Total goals.
Apparently, I’m deep in my contemporary romcom era and thriving. I might have even liked this one more than the first (and I loved the first). September can’t come fast enough for the next book.
Kay Marie, you’ve got me good.
This book is the perfect romcom. The MMC is hot—100% swoon-worthy cowboy energy that had me blushing and grinning the whole time. The FMC is a badass bitch with the kind of confidence I only dream of—confident, real, and impossible not to root for. Their chemistry is electric. The banter, the heat, the emotional connection—it all just works. Their relationship? Total goals.
Apparently, I’m deep in my contemporary romcom era and thriving. I might have even liked this one more than the first (and I loved the first). September can’t come fast enough for the next book.
Kay Marie, you’ve got me good.
August 8, 2024
My first ARC was a success! This was so cute and fun to read. Definitely worth it. The Shania Twain parts killed me 😂
September 25, 2024
Arc Review:
Overall Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 2 🔥🔥
Cover Rating: 3 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
- Dating Show Setting with Reality Tv Shenanigans
- A Fake Engagement in Paradise
- Twin Swap
- Cowboy X City Girl
- Opposites Attract
- Enemies to Lovers
- He Falls First
- Insta Lust
- Dual POV
- Forced Proximity (Only One Bungalow)
- Banter, Banter and more Banter
- And Enough Steamy Tension To Make You Scream
The Love Lie is the second book in The Love Match series, The Love Lie is an enemies to lovers, fake engagement romance between a workaholic city girl and a cocky cowboy.
Cooper is our MMC and he is a cocky cowboy with a restless spirit and Sam is our FMC and she’s a boss lady from the city. I think that our couple had a lot of chemistry which made their relationship more enjoyable to read about.
At the start I wasn’t quite sure if I’d like this book but the more I read the more I enjoyed. The book was really funny and the characters were enjoyable.
I would like to thank the author Kay Marie and NetGalley for letting me be apart of the arc team for this book I enjoyed reading it.
Overall Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 2 🔥🔥
Cover Rating: 3 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
- Dating Show Setting with Reality Tv Shenanigans
- A Fake Engagement in Paradise
- Twin Swap
- Cowboy X City Girl
- Opposites Attract
- Enemies to Lovers
- He Falls First
- Insta Lust
- Dual POV
- Forced Proximity (Only One Bungalow)
- Banter, Banter and more Banter
- And Enough Steamy Tension To Make You Scream
The Love Lie is the second book in The Love Match series, The Love Lie is an enemies to lovers, fake engagement romance between a workaholic city girl and a cocky cowboy.
Cooper is our MMC and he is a cocky cowboy with a restless spirit and Sam is our FMC and she’s a boss lady from the city. I think that our couple had a lot of chemistry which made their relationship more enjoyable to read about.
At the start I wasn’t quite sure if I’d like this book but the more I read the more I enjoyed. The book was really funny and the characters were enjoyable.
I would like to thank the author Kay Marie and NetGalley for letting me be apart of the arc team for this book I enjoyed reading it.
July 7, 2024
Rating: 3.5/5
𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚠𝚋𝚘𝚢 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚊𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚎.
The plan was simple … at least it was supposed to be.
Sam had two things to do: 1. Secretly step in filming for her twin sister Emily, the lead on a reality dating show and 2. Say no to Coopers proposal. Only Sam took one look at Cooper Kelley and said sure .. and a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged. In a ploy not to blow their cover, the only solution is to stay fake engaged until the final taping, where they then can call off their engagement. When Sam & Cooper start breaking the boundary rules they’ve set in place, lines aren’t the only thing becoming blurred.
I loved the idea of the plot and I was a huge fan of both Cooper & Sam - I was rooting for them their entire journey! Their chemistry was never a problem (or was it? LOL) and it only got better throughout. Their continued banter brought out playfulness to their characters and relationship. I’m a huge fan of reality dating shows, I’ve seen them all! So I love the idea of them being thrown into books. This was a quick and fun romance read & you can never do wrong throwing in a cowboy ;)
I know the whole premises of this started with a twin swap and that’s how it obviously had to end, I just thought realistically it wasn’t realistic? I don’t want to give spoilers away, however for reference, i’m talking about the final taping and the plan that Sam and Nina come up with. I think there’s too many plot holes for it to be the truth (Sam’s job, other people knowing, etc).
~ Just my own personal thought (and did not deduct from my rating) - I wasn’t initially aware this was the second book in the series, following the first book, The Love Match. I found myself a little confused at times, so I would suggest reading this as a series and in order to understand the background of it all. ~
✨ Fake Engagement
✨ Reality Show
✨ Cowboy Romance
✨ Twin Sister Swap
TW: mentions of cancer (past), loss of parent/grief
Thank you to NetGalley and author Kay Marie for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚠𝚋𝚘𝚢 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚊𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚎.
The plan was simple … at least it was supposed to be.
Sam had two things to do: 1. Secretly step in filming for her twin sister Emily, the lead on a reality dating show and 2. Say no to Coopers proposal. Only Sam took one look at Cooper Kelley and said sure .. and a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged. In a ploy not to blow their cover, the only solution is to stay fake engaged until the final taping, where they then can call off their engagement. When Sam & Cooper start breaking the boundary rules they’ve set in place, lines aren’t the only thing becoming blurred.
I loved the idea of the plot and I was a huge fan of both Cooper & Sam - I was rooting for them their entire journey! Their chemistry was never a problem (or was it? LOL) and it only got better throughout. Their continued banter brought out playfulness to their characters and relationship. I’m a huge fan of reality dating shows, I’ve seen them all! So I love the idea of them being thrown into books. This was a quick and fun romance read & you can never do wrong throwing in a cowboy ;)
I know the whole premises of this started with a twin swap and that’s how it obviously had to end, I just thought realistically it wasn’t realistic? I don’t want to give spoilers away, however for reference, i’m talking about the final taping and the plan that Sam and Nina come up with. I think there’s too many plot holes for it to be the truth (Sam’s job, other people knowing, etc).
~ Just my own personal thought (and did not deduct from my rating) - I wasn’t initially aware this was the second book in the series, following the first book, The Love Match. I found myself a little confused at times, so I would suggest reading this as a series and in order to understand the background of it all. ~
✨ Fake Engagement
✨ Reality Show
✨ Cowboy Romance
✨ Twin Sister Swap
TW: mentions of cancer (past), loss of parent/grief
Thank you to NetGalley and author Kay Marie for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 17, 2024
“I switched with my twin to help her but now I have to be fake engaged with the sexy cowboy from her dating show.”
🎬 Reality Dating Show
🤠 Cowboy
⚡️ Forced proximity
❤️ ‘Just this once’
A huge thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book as an e-arc.
As this is the second book of The Love Match, I highly recommend reading it in order (so book one then book 2). The stories are intertwined and it will make more sense !
I loved the first book, and it was pretty clear how this one will follow Sam and Cooper. I mean, we heard about Cooper all throughout the book, as one of Emily’s pretenders. He was actually supposed to be the last one on her dating show.
Cooper has an obvious main character vibe, with his difficult past and cowboy present.
When Sam takes her sister’s place, their chemistry is insane. So much so that they completely forget Emily’s plan…
I really like how different they are. Sam is hardworking and her life goal is based on security (money wise). She doesn’t believe in love and therefore feels like she’s better off alone.
Cooper is also hard working, he would do anything for his father and their ranch. Like joining a very popular dating show… It’s lust at first sight for them both, but they’re too different, and their chemistry is too important to just enjoy the week of honeymoon they have together. Let’s not forget that Sam is pretending to be her sister, and that the main reason why she can’t picture anything with Cooper.
🎬 Reality Dating Show
🤠 Cowboy
⚡️ Forced proximity
❤️ ‘Just this once’
A huge thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book as an e-arc.
As this is the second book of The Love Match, I highly recommend reading it in order (so book one then book 2). The stories are intertwined and it will make more sense !
I loved the first book, and it was pretty clear how this one will follow Sam and Cooper. I mean, we heard about Cooper all throughout the book, as one of Emily’s pretenders. He was actually supposed to be the last one on her dating show.
Cooper has an obvious main character vibe, with his difficult past and cowboy present.
When Sam takes her sister’s place, their chemistry is insane. So much so that they completely forget Emily’s plan…
I really like how different they are. Sam is hardworking and her life goal is based on security (money wise). She doesn’t believe in love and therefore feels like she’s better off alone.
Cooper is also hard working, he would do anything for his father and their ranch. Like joining a very popular dating show… It’s lust at first sight for them both, but they’re too different, and their chemistry is too important to just enjoy the week of honeymoon they have together. Let’s not forget that Sam is pretending to be her sister, and that the main reason why she can’t picture anything with Cooper.
July 28, 2024
Book 91 of 2024: The Love Lie by Kay Marie
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
To some people, a proposal in the Maldives would be an absolute dream. To Samantha Peters, it’s a certifiable nightmare. She’s pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a massively popular reality TV show and her potential fiancé is an annoyingly sexy cowboy who refuses to let her win a single argument. When a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged, they have no choice but to figure it out together. Their plan is simple. Spend a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after. But there’s only one problem. Between jet skis, yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, these two opposites constantly at one another's throats start to see each other in a new light. But no matter how big the attraction between them grows, the rules are set. They absolutely cannot fall in love.
Thank you so much @netgalley, @xpressotours, and @kaymariebooks for the ARC! I really enjoyed The Love Match, and this books was an incredible follow up. Cooper and Sam are the embodiment of opposites attracts and they had absolutely sizzling chemistry and banter. Mixed in a forced proximity and a fake engagement, and the reader is left with an adorable romcom full of heart, hilarity, and of course some heat! The book was fast paced and had me hooked from the beginning. I always love stories that have a dual point of view, so that was a great touch as well. While this is the second book in a series, it is not necessary to read the first before jumping in. But I would still recommend it because both Emily and Sam had a wonderful stories! The Love Lie hits shelves September 24!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
To some people, a proposal in the Maldives would be an absolute dream. To Samantha Peters, it’s a certifiable nightmare. She’s pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a massively popular reality TV show and her potential fiancé is an annoyingly sexy cowboy who refuses to let her win a single argument. When a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged, they have no choice but to figure it out together. Their plan is simple. Spend a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after. But there’s only one problem. Between jet skis, yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, these two opposites constantly at one another's throats start to see each other in a new light. But no matter how big the attraction between them grows, the rules are set. They absolutely cannot fall in love.
Thank you so much @netgalley, @xpressotours, and @kaymariebooks for the ARC! I really enjoyed The Love Match, and this books was an incredible follow up. Cooper and Sam are the embodiment of opposites attracts and they had absolutely sizzling chemistry and banter. Mixed in a forced proximity and a fake engagement, and the reader is left with an adorable romcom full of heart, hilarity, and of course some heat! The book was fast paced and had me hooked from the beginning. I always love stories that have a dual point of view, so that was a great touch as well. While this is the second book in a series, it is not necessary to read the first before jumping in. But I would still recommend it because both Emily and Sam had a wonderful stories! The Love Lie hits shelves September 24!
September 13, 2024
• ARC REVIEW •
Release Date: 9/24
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I adored this read from start to finish! It was such a fun swoony rom-com that kept you reading. I was rooting for Sam + Cooper the entire time because how could you not?! They were both lovable characters who I easily related to. This is a perfect book for girlies who love reality dating shows and grew up loving “The Parent Trap.” I must also acknowledge the beautiful slow burn and tension in their relationship = 🧑🍳’s 😘🤌🏼
Summary:
“A city girl.
A country boy.
A fake engagement in front of 10 million viewers.
What could possibly go wrong?”
Sam is pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a popular reality TV show + her potential fiancé is an annoying cowboy who she can’t seem to settle any argument with. A moment of impulse leaves them accidentally engaged for the whole world to see. This wasn’t their plan.
Their new plan = ride out a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after…
Expect:
-fake engagement
-slow burn
-cowboy MC
-twin swap
-dual POV
-forced proximity
-opposites attract
-terminal illness reference
Thank you NetGalley, the author and Xpresso Reads for this ARC in exchange for my honest review ✨
Release Date: 9/24
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I adored this read from start to finish! It was such a fun swoony rom-com that kept you reading. I was rooting for Sam + Cooper the entire time because how could you not?! They were both lovable characters who I easily related to. This is a perfect book for girlies who love reality dating shows and grew up loving “The Parent Trap.” I must also acknowledge the beautiful slow burn and tension in their relationship = 🧑🍳’s 😘🤌🏼
Summary:
“A city girl.
A country boy.
A fake engagement in front of 10 million viewers.
What could possibly go wrong?”
Sam is pretending to be her identical twin sister on the set of a popular reality TV show + her potential fiancé is an annoying cowboy who she can’t seem to settle any argument with. A moment of impulse leaves them accidentally engaged for the whole world to see. This wasn’t their plan.
Their new plan = ride out a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow so the producers don’t catch wind of the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. And live happily never after…
Expect:
-fake engagement
-slow burn
-cowboy MC
-twin swap
-dual POV
-forced proximity
-opposites attract
-terminal illness reference
Thank you NetGalley, the author and Xpresso Reads for this ARC in exchange for my honest review ✨
July 8, 2024
First I want to thank XPresso Book Tours for giving me the ARC to this book on NetGalley!
"The next time I kiss you, Sam, it won't be because of someone else. It won't be because you're upset. It won't be out of fear. It'll be because you want it. I'll be because you're begging for it. It won't be for anyone's benefit but our own."
"And if that never happens?" Her lips caress the pad of his thumb.
"It'll happen."
"What makes you so sure, cowboy?"
"Were inevitable, darlin".
Let me start off by saying, that I did not know this is the second in a series. I only just noticed when I looked the book up on Goodreads. But the first novel in the series, The Love Rematch, is now on my TBR. But not having read the first book did not affect my reading experience at all!
I gave this book 3.5 stars. It was a fun holiday read, but very predictable. That doesnt have to be a bad thing though. This book would be perfect for someone who is looking for a cute summer read that you can easily finish within one week (yes, even with school and exams!).
Even though it was not perfect, there were many things I liked about this book.
1. The Pace
This novel was very fastpaced, to the point where it felt a bit rushed at some points. When starting Sam and Coopers story, the reader is immediately thrown into the story. The backstory and how they got to the point they are are explained over the course of the first few chapters.
2. Dual POV
This novel is written from two povs and has an omniscient narrator. Usually I don’t like this, because the boys perspective is oftentimes written in a weird way, but Coopers perspective was great. His POV could easily be distinguished from Sams without feeling like a different novel.
3. The FMC
Sam is relatable and has real struggles, while still being brave and funny. She is the version of myself, that I could be, if I were more courageous. She is strong, likeable and, most importantly, written like a real woman, with doubts, problems and a job she hates but can’t quite bring herself to leave.
4. The language
This novel is written in a funny and descriptive way, which makes it really easy to read. Even half asleep I could follow the plot. This is great for people, such as myself, whose first language is not english.
What I did not like:
1. The first half
If you are looking for an emotional book, you are not going to find that in the first half of this one. There was A LOT of tension and hints at emotional backstories, but they are not discussed yet. This is why the first half bored me a little bit. It does get better in the second half though.
2. The Plot
As I already mentioned, this one was a bit too predictable for me. Especially with it being advertised as enemies to lovers, there was not enough pining, not enough time passed before they caught feelings. The book basically starts off with both of them being like: “wow, they are hot!”, then thinking it for 100 pages without really doing anything.
Overall I still enjoyed reading this. I think I finished it within 5 days. It is a great beach read for your next summer vacay, but not the emotional rollercoaster I expected it to be.
As always, this review will be available on Goodreads, Storygraph and NetGalley!
"The next time I kiss you, Sam, it won't be because of someone else. It won't be because you're upset. It won't be out of fear. It'll be because you want it. I'll be because you're begging for it. It won't be for anyone's benefit but our own."
"And if that never happens?" Her lips caress the pad of his thumb.
"It'll happen."
"What makes you so sure, cowboy?"
"Were inevitable, darlin".
Let me start off by saying, that I did not know this is the second in a series. I only just noticed when I looked the book up on Goodreads. But the first novel in the series, The Love Rematch, is now on my TBR. But not having read the first book did not affect my reading experience at all!
I gave this book 3.5 stars. It was a fun holiday read, but very predictable. That doesnt have to be a bad thing though. This book would be perfect for someone who is looking for a cute summer read that you can easily finish within one week (yes, even with school and exams!).
Even though it was not perfect, there were many things I liked about this book.
1. The Pace
This novel was very fastpaced, to the point where it felt a bit rushed at some points. When starting Sam and Coopers story, the reader is immediately thrown into the story. The backstory and how they got to the point they are are explained over the course of the first few chapters.
2. Dual POV
This novel is written from two povs and has an omniscient narrator. Usually I don’t like this, because the boys perspective is oftentimes written in a weird way, but Coopers perspective was great. His POV could easily be distinguished from Sams without feeling like a different novel.
3. The FMC
Sam is relatable and has real struggles, while still being brave and funny. She is the version of myself, that I could be, if I were more courageous. She is strong, likeable and, most importantly, written like a real woman, with doubts, problems and a job she hates but can’t quite bring herself to leave.
4. The language
This novel is written in a funny and descriptive way, which makes it really easy to read. Even half asleep I could follow the plot. This is great for people, such as myself, whose first language is not english.
What I did not like:
1. The first half
If you are looking for an emotional book, you are not going to find that in the first half of this one. There was A LOT of tension and hints at emotional backstories, but they are not discussed yet. This is why the first half bored me a little bit. It does get better in the second half though.
2. The Plot
As I already mentioned, this one was a bit too predictable for me. Especially with it being advertised as enemies to lovers, there was not enough pining, not enough time passed before they caught feelings. The book basically starts off with both of them being like: “wow, they are hot!”, then thinking it for 100 pages without really doing anything.
Overall I still enjoyed reading this. I think I finished it within 5 days. It is a great beach read for your next summer vacay, but not the emotional rollercoaster I expected it to be.
As always, this review will be available on Goodreads, Storygraph and NetGalley!
July 6, 2024
2.5 stars - fun while it lasted but cliche in a lot of ways.
I really loved the plot, characters, the writing style wasn't my favourite but it made for quick easy reading.
There were a lot of interesting tropes that could have been utilised more, such as the fake engagement only really played into very few scenes.
He was a cowboy so naturally the hat rule made an appearance (iykyk) but even that would have been nice to see more understanding stem from it.
It felt very rushed and shallow - the plot could have been drawn out more and maybe more tension would have been built, mentions of struggles and grief did appear but however natural they also felt like they were skimmed over and inserted in to give more depth.
It was entertaining and I kept reading but didn't give me much more than that.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really loved the plot, characters, the writing style wasn't my favourite but it made for quick easy reading.
There were a lot of interesting tropes that could have been utilised more, such as the fake engagement only really played into very few scenes.
He was a cowboy so naturally the hat rule made an appearance (iykyk) but even that would have been nice to see more understanding stem from it.
It felt very rushed and shallow - the plot could have been drawn out more and maybe more tension would have been built, mentions of struggles and grief did appear but however natural they also felt like they were skimmed over and inserted in to give more depth.
It was entertaining and I kept reading but didn't give me much more than that.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2024
This was cute! I enjoyed the first book in this series and this was no different. There was plenty of funny banter, sweet moments and scenery that made me want to go and wallow in the crystal clear waters off a tropical island.
I loved Sam, the FMC, and Cooper was perfect for her. He was attentive and sincere while also being fun and pushing Sam out of her comfort zone. I enjoyed it, it was a good time.
Thanks to #NetGallery and publisher for a copy of this book.
Genre: Romance MF
Format: Digital
POV: Dual
Tropes: Twin swap, fake engagement, reality tv, no kissing on the lips, cowboy life on the ranch, you hate your job and should definitely quit.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ /5
Age suggestion: 18+
I loved Sam, the FMC, and Cooper was perfect for her. He was attentive and sincere while also being fun and pushing Sam out of her comfort zone. I enjoyed it, it was a good time.
Thanks to #NetGallery and publisher for a copy of this book.
Genre: Romance MF
Format: Digital
POV: Dual
Tropes: Twin swap, fake engagement, reality tv, no kissing on the lips, cowboy life on the ranch, you hate your job and should definitely quit.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ /5
Age suggestion: 18+
October 5, 2024
This was surprisingly good! The city girl meets small-town boy trope is usually hit or miss, but this one nailed it. The characters were fun and relatable, especially the heroine. I loved how her decision to embrace small-town life came from selfish reasons first, not just because she wanted to move there solely because of the hero. I love when heroines aren’t people pleasers and instead look out for themselves.
And the hero? A total goner. Buying an espresso maker just for her and learning to cook? That’s a REAL MAN IN LOVE. Their banter was fun, too. The epilogue was satisfying enough but still left me wanting more. Maybe we’ll get more of them in the next book?
And the hero? A total goner. Buying an espresso maker just for her and learning to cook? That’s a REAL MAN IN LOVE. Their banter was fun, too. The epilogue was satisfying enough but still left me wanting more. Maybe we’ll get more of them in the next book?
October 6, 2024
3.25/5
This was a quick fun read. It was so cute and lighthearted. I enjoyed the premise even thought it was a bit unbelievable. Sam and Cooper had great chemistry, and I loved their banter. Sam was such a girl boss, and I loved how devoted Cooper was. They were so cute together, and I was really rooting for them. I definitely would recommend the book, and plan to read the next in the series!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a quick fun read. It was so cute and lighthearted. I enjoyed the premise even thought it was a bit unbelievable. Sam and Cooper had great chemistry, and I loved their banter. Sam was such a girl boss, and I loved how devoted Cooper was. They were so cute together, and I was really rooting for them. I definitely would recommend the book, and plan to read the next in the series!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2024
This book was so fun!
This is a book 2 in The Love Match series and it starts off where the first book ended, but this time, with Sam, our FMC. Sam is pretending to be her twin sister in a popular dating reality show!
The sisters' plan is simple: Sam will gently but firmly turn down the proposal of the male main lead, hop on a plane and go back to her life.
Enter Cooper, the hot cowboy and finalist on the show. He's aware of the plan, but when Sam shockingly accepts his proposal and they share a kiss for the cameras, he realises maybe THIS twin is who he's been waiting for...
Cue the SWOON. This book was so CUTE.
I loved the chemistry between the characters, we feel it as soon as they meet! And THEY know they would be great together! I loved the banter and the sexy teasing!
Both MCs felt like such great and fully-fledged characters and when they finally get out of their own way, it's amazing! Both characters have been through so much and yuo can't help but feel for them.
I just loved Cooper, he was such a kind and compassionate MC. I liked him in the first book so I was obviously excited when I found out he was the next MC!
Honestly, I can't recommend this book enough! Definitely give the first book a try as well (I also enjoyed and gave it 4 stars), it's currently on available on KU.
Thank you to Kay Marie and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is a book 2 in The Love Match series and it starts off where the first book ended, but this time, with Sam, our FMC. Sam is pretending to be her twin sister in a popular dating reality show!
The sisters' plan is simple: Sam will gently but firmly turn down the proposal of the male main lead, hop on a plane and go back to her life.
Enter Cooper, the hot cowboy and finalist on the show. He's aware of the plan, but when Sam shockingly accepts his proposal and they share a kiss for the cameras, he realises maybe THIS twin is who he's been waiting for...
Cue the SWOON. This book was so CUTE.
I loved the chemistry between the characters, we feel it as soon as they meet! And THEY know they would be great together! I loved the banter and the sexy teasing!
Both MCs felt like such great and fully-fledged characters and when they finally get out of their own way, it's amazing! Both characters have been through so much and yuo can't help but feel for them.
I just loved Cooper, he was such a kind and compassionate MC. I liked him in the first book so I was obviously excited when I found out he was the next MC!
Honestly, I can't recommend this book enough! Definitely give the first book a try as well (I also enjoyed and gave it 4 stars), it's currently on available on KU.
Thank you to Kay Marie and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 21, 2024
4.5 stars!! I haven’t read the first one (I didn’t know there was a first until the end of this one), but that didn’t hinder the experience at all! Really easy to fall into and keep up with! I really liked the concept and the tropes (twin swap, fake engagement, forced proximity, and city girl x cowboy) If you’re a fan of cheesy romances, you’ll probably like this one!
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the eARC! My opinions are my own :)
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the eARC! My opinions are my own :)
July 17, 2024
*Thank you Netgalley and publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️ Rating: 4/5
TROPES:
♡ Instant attraction
♡ Cowboy MMC
♡ Opposites attract
♡ Fake engagement
This was a really fun read, especially the second half of the book. The jet setting element and cowboy mmc was especially enjoyable to me personally. I also really loved the ending and felt it was very heartwarming and sweet.
I realized after this was a sequel so I’ll have to read the first one next. The groundwork was set nicely for a third novel which I look forward to reading as well 💗
⭐️ Rating: 4/5
TROPES:
♡ Instant attraction
♡ Cowboy MMC
♡ Opposites attract
♡ Fake engagement
This was a really fun read, especially the second half of the book. The jet setting element and cowboy mmc was especially enjoyable to me personally. I also really loved the ending and felt it was very heartwarming and sweet.
I realized after this was a sequel so I’ll have to read the first one next. The groundwork was set nicely for a third novel which I look forward to reading as well 💗
March 3, 2025
Thank you to Kay Marie and NetGalley for giving me early access to this book.
If you liked The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren or The Unhoneymooners by the same author, you'll love this!
Me the entire time while reading this book:
This is a strangers to lovers, city girl + farm boy/cowboy and a fake engagement kind of story. And it's a funny one! Oh, and the tension! Good lord!
Additional notes
Now this is the second book in the series. This book is the followup of the first one. As someone who didn’t read the first book, I missed some of the backstory. But I’ll read that one too, for sure!
If you liked The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren or The Unhoneymooners by the same author, you'll love this!
Me the entire time while reading this book:
This is a strangers to lovers, city girl + farm boy/cowboy and a fake engagement kind of story. And it's a funny one! Oh, and the tension! Good lord!
Additional notes
Now this is the second book in the series. This book is the followup of the first one. As someone who didn’t read the first book, I missed some of the backstory. But I’ll read that one too, for sure!
January 30, 2026
I cannot believe kay marie has caught my heart again. This romcom picks up right after "the love rematch", and follows emily's sister, Sam, as she falls in love. I never expected to love this one as much as i did, but its perfect. It has all the feels, so much depth, loveable characters, and a promise for a part 3 (;
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
September 25, 2024
I loved this series so much and I knew I would enjoy Sam and Cooper’s story even more. This is my first cowboy romance and it absolutely delivered. I love that Sam is a strong, intelligent, badass character who has her shit together but shows vulnerability when falling in love♥️ Cooper is the perfect male lead. I love this man with my whole heart. I want Winnie’s book with Ty IMMEDIATELY.
July 5, 2024
Title: The Love Lie Author: Kay Marie
Genre: Romance Rating: ★★★★
A city girl. A country boy. A fake engagement in front of 10 million viewers. What could possibly go wrong?….Well a lot!
To some, a proposal in the Maldives is the stuff of dreams. For Samantha Peters, it’s a certifiable nightmare. Why? Because she’s pretending to be her identical twin sister on a wildly popular reality TV show, and her potential fiancé is an infuriatingly sexy cowboy named Cooper, who never lets her win an argument. When a moment of temporary insanity leaves them accidentally engaged, they're stuck figuring it out together.
Their plan? Simple. Spend a week in paradise sharing the same bungalow to keep the producers from discovering the truth. Break up as soon as the cameras go down. Then live happily never after.
There’s only one problem: between jet skis, yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, these two opposites start seeing each other in a new light. Maybe Sam is more than just a workaholic with an iron heart, and maybe Cooper isn’t just a cocky cowboy with a restless spirit. But no matter how big the attraction grows, the rules are clear.
What I Loved:
Kay Marie’s The Love Lie is an absolute delight for fans of romantic comedies and fake engagement tropes, tropes that I love!
The chemistry between Samantha and Cooper is electric from the start, making their constant bickering as entertaining as it is sizzling. The setup of pretending to be someone else on a reality TV show adds a fresh twist to the enemies-to-lovers trope, keeping the readers hooked.
The exotic setting of the Maldives provides a breathtaking backdrop for this whirlwind romance. The vivid descriptions of their adventures—from jet skiing to romantic dinners—transport you right into the heart of paradise, making the story even more immersive.
I also appreciated the dual POV format, which gives readers a peek into the minds of both Sam and Cooper. It’s fun to see their misconceptions about each other unravel as they start to see beyond the facades they’ve built. Their character development is well-paced, and by the end, you’re rooting for them to break the rules and give love a chance.
Kay Marie masterfully combines humour, heart, and heat in this second instalment of The Love Match series, making it a must-read for romance enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted escape, this book is definitely for you!
Thank you to The Author Kay Marie & Netgalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
September 18, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive as an ARC 🥰
Kay Marie crafts a delightful, laugh-out-loud romance filled with all the tropes romance readers love: fake engagement, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and a tropical paradise. The second installment of *
The Love Match series stands on its own and takes readers on an entertaining journey as Samantha Peters and Cooper—the annoyingly sexy cowboy—navigate a whirlwind of unexpected emotions during their week-long reality TV escapade.
Samantha, a driven and work-obsessed city girl, is roped into pretending to be her identical twin sister on a hit reality show, only to find herself engaged to Cooper, a laid-back country boy with an infuriating tendency to challenge her at every turn. The chemistry between the two is electric from the beginning, with their bickering and banter providing much of the novel’s charm. Despite their opposing personalities, the forced proximity of sharing a bungalow in paradise allows them to see beyond their differences, which leads to the possibility of something real growing from their fake engagement.
The fake engagement trope is perfectly executed here, with the added drama of a reality TV show and a ticking clock until the cameras go down. Readers will find themselves rooting for the pair as they navigate yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, all while trying to convince themselves that their growing attraction is just for show. Kay Marie masterfully builds tension as Sam and Cooper resist their undeniable connection, making the slow burn both frustrating and exhilarating.
The Love Lie is a fun, flirty, and thoroughly entertaining romance that will leave readers swooning over Sam and Cooper’s love story. It’s the perfect escape for anyone who enjoys a good dose of humor with their romance, set against the backdrop of a dreamy tropical adventure. With its witty dialogue, engaging characters, and satisfying romance, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre.
Kay Marie crafts a delightful, laugh-out-loud romance filled with all the tropes romance readers love: fake engagement, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and a tropical paradise. The second installment of *
The Love Match series stands on its own and takes readers on an entertaining journey as Samantha Peters and Cooper—the annoyingly sexy cowboy—navigate a whirlwind of unexpected emotions during their week-long reality TV escapade.
Samantha, a driven and work-obsessed city girl, is roped into pretending to be her identical twin sister on a hit reality show, only to find herself engaged to Cooper, a laid-back country boy with an infuriating tendency to challenge her at every turn. The chemistry between the two is electric from the beginning, with their bickering and banter providing much of the novel’s charm. Despite their opposing personalities, the forced proximity of sharing a bungalow in paradise allows them to see beyond their differences, which leads to the possibility of something real growing from their fake engagement.
The fake engagement trope is perfectly executed here, with the added drama of a reality TV show and a ticking clock until the cameras go down. Readers will find themselves rooting for the pair as they navigate yacht tours, romantic dinners, and sunset parasails, all while trying to convince themselves that their growing attraction is just for show. Kay Marie masterfully builds tension as Sam and Cooper resist their undeniable connection, making the slow burn both frustrating and exhilarating.
The Love Lie is a fun, flirty, and thoroughly entertaining romance that will leave readers swooning over Sam and Cooper’s love story. It’s the perfect escape for anyone who enjoys a good dose of humor with their romance, set against the backdrop of a dreamy tropical adventure. With its witty dialogue, engaging characters, and satisfying romance, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre.
November 15, 2024
The Love Lie is the follow-up to the first book in the series The Love Rematch and follows Emily’s twin sister Samantha as they switch places during the finale of the show. Sam figured it would be simple, pretend to be her sister and let the final two guys down easy but even though Cooper already knew the plan that all went out the window when Sam sees him for the first time.
Instantly, Cooper knew the difference between Sam and Emily and he knew without a doubt that he wanted to truly know Sam so when she said yes deviating from the plan he knew he was in for a battle. The pull between Sam and Cooper is instantaneous even though Sam tried to keep her walls up she felt them slipping with Cooper every time they talked and touched. There was a lot standing in their way but Cooper knew he would fight for Sam no matter what, he just needed her to realize she wants to fight for him and for them on her own.
This was a fun follow-up and I enjoyed the pull Sam and Cooper shared. They kept each other on their toes and saw what made each other tick and what made them happy. I enjoyed seeing them grow into their relationship together and even though Cooper already knew the outcome he waited for Sam to catch up.
I’m hoping there’s another book in the series following the next lead of the show who happens to be a professional hockey player and friends with Winnie’s older brother so I’m hoping it’s a brother’s best friend romance especially since Winnie (Sam’s roommate) is obsessed with romance books.
Thank you publishers and @netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
Instantly, Cooper knew the difference between Sam and Emily and he knew without a doubt that he wanted to truly know Sam so when she said yes deviating from the plan he knew he was in for a battle. The pull between Sam and Cooper is instantaneous even though Sam tried to keep her walls up she felt them slipping with Cooper every time they talked and touched. There was a lot standing in their way but Cooper knew he would fight for Sam no matter what, he just needed her to realize she wants to fight for him and for them on her own.
This was a fun follow-up and I enjoyed the pull Sam and Cooper shared. They kept each other on their toes and saw what made each other tick and what made them happy. I enjoyed seeing them grow into their relationship together and even though Cooper already knew the outcome he waited for Sam to catch up.
I’m hoping there’s another book in the series following the next lead of the show who happens to be a professional hockey player and friends with Winnie’s older brother so I’m hoping it’s a brother’s best friend romance especially since Winnie (Sam’s roommate) is obsessed with romance books.
Thank you publishers and @netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
September 25, 2024
This book is a sequel to The Love Match, which I do think is important to read before this because you get so much context. Sam swapped places with her twin Emily for this show and instead of breaking it off with the #1 guy, she says yes and they have to fake their engagement in a way. It did feel pretty insta lusty and I feel like we didn’t get to know Sam as a person much, just a few stories of what she went through with Emily years ago. I really liked what we did get to know about Cooper, but again their relationship just felt more surface level to me. I did like the ending and how their solved the problem with the show and how they can be together.
This isn’t getting a low rating because it’s that bad, but I just didn’t care for it at all. It’s hard to enjoy a book when you don’t connect to the characters and I wasn’t inspired to pick it up and read. It did go by kinda fast but it was more of a background read for me unfortunately. We got a few time jumps throughout which made us miss a lot of context and just get the main points of the book which made me feel like I missed out on a lot of growth between them. They didn’t have a whole lot of in-depth convos and how some of the writing/grammar was, was annoying to me (paragraphs taking up half-to a whole page with no dialogue from the other character). I do think some people will really enjoy this book, but it just wasn’t for me.
I received a digital copy from NetGalley & the publisher of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This isn’t getting a low rating because it’s that bad, but I just didn’t care for it at all. It’s hard to enjoy a book when you don’t connect to the characters and I wasn’t inspired to pick it up and read. It did go by kinda fast but it was more of a background read for me unfortunately. We got a few time jumps throughout which made us miss a lot of context and just get the main points of the book which made me feel like I missed out on a lot of growth between them. They didn’t have a whole lot of in-depth convos and how some of the writing/grammar was, was annoying to me (paragraphs taking up half-to a whole page with no dialogue from the other character). I do think some people will really enjoy this book, but it just wasn’t for me.
I received a digital copy from NetGalley & the publisher of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
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