A broken-hearted bridesmaid. A man with secrets. A weekend in paradise.
Anthony
Fixing cars is simple, but my life is anything but. I’ve tried everything I could to make things work, which is how I ended up at Foxy’s Rent-A-Date. I told myself it was a temporary thing, but somehow four years later I’m still here…
Which is why when I take a job as a bridesmaid’s plus one, the last person I expect to see is Paige…
I know I can’t fix the past, but can I resist the promise of a future with the one person who knows the real me? Or will the truth dissolve along with my heart when the job is over?
Paige
Being a bridesmaid for my best friend should be the happiest moment of my life. But when I discover my boyfriend hooking up with one of the other bridesmaids behind my back, all my happiness disappears. How am I supposed to stand up there and smile knowing love is a lie?
With a fake date from Foxy’s, that’s how. No one will ever know the truth. That is, until Anthony shows up to be my plus one. You’d think a familiar face would be comforting, but the past has a way of coming back to haunt you…
Will the secrets of our past destroy my one shot at coming out of this unscathed? Or will I fall for Anthony all over again only to have my heart broken twice?
Anthony and Paige knew each other when they were younger. After a tragic loss and a wild night he disappeared. Now when she needed an emergency date he comes back into her life.
A talk a loooong time coming answers so many questions and provides unexpected answers. Anthony is so sweet but also so afraid to fall back into old habits. Paige has been hurt both by Anthony and her cheating ex.
The definitely have a lot to overcome. I love how real and raw both characters were. They were not ready for each other the first time but they have both come a long way since then.
Each story from the Foxy's Rent a Date series has been beautiful. The connections are all beautiful and different. From second chance to poly couples and new relationships you can find something for everyone.
Paige needs a date to her best friend's wedding after finding her boyfriend cheating on her. Her friends sets her up with a date from Foxy's. She's surprised to see Anthony show up, her brother's best friend. They haven't seen each other in 4 years. Things are a bit awkward at first but they eventually warm up to each other. Anthony helps her keep her ex away every time he comes up to Paige or puts on a show with his new girlfriend. Paige and Anthony talk about their past and both want to move forward. Will they make it through the weekend?
Anthony is a captivating blend of heartache, hope, and second chances. The story of a broken-hearted bridesmaid and a man carrying heavy secrets unfolds with such authenticity that it pulls you in from page one.
Nina Brown’s writing truly shines here, delving into the complexities of love, redemption, and the shadows of past mistakes. Anthony, who starts out as just a “plus one,” quickly becomes a layered, relatable, and endearing character. His chemistry with Paige is undeniable, charged with the tension of their shared history and the vulnerability of their present.
Paige’s journey through betrayal and heartbreak is as compelling as it is inspiring. I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. The Foxy’s Rent-A-Date backdrop injects humor, charm, and unexpected twists that make the story even more addictive.
I’m thrilled to be part of this ARC team because I’ve loved every installment in this series, it’s such a joy to watch each character on the Foxy’s roster come to life.
At its core, Anthony is a heartfelt exploration of how love can grow in the cracks left by pain. Paige is the quiet, shy soul learning to trust again, while Anthony, a mechanic working through his own struggles, embodies resilience. Their shared, bittersweet history adds depth to every interaction.
Anthony completely stole my heart. As someone who’s faced my own addictions, I deeply appreciated how his battles were portrayed, the honesty, the ongoing effort, and the hope for a better future.,
Emotional, funny, and irresistibly romantic, this book is a beautiful reminder that the past doesn’t have to define us. Highly recommend for anyone craving a poignant, passionate romance that lingers long after the last page.
Paige gets cheated on by her boyfriend at her best friend’s wedding shower so come time for the wedding she doesn’t want to attend alone when she knows her ex is going to be there with his new girlfriend. She hires a date and it ends up being her late brother’s best friend who she lost her virginity to and never spoke to again, let the fake dating second chance having drama ensue.
Honestly, I wanted to really like this one but it was confusing most of the time. Were they actually fake dating or did people think he was just a random plus one? They went back and forth over whether they were faking or getting to know each other in front of other people. A lot of just silly inaccuracies that really took me out of the story like him holding his 9 month sobriety chip but somehow it’s been worn down from months of rubbing it…he’s 9 months and 2 weeks sober so how is that months of having that chip? Or her as the maid of honor getting ready with him and not doing any of the pre-wedding things. Or even just a woman holding her giant carry on when the plane is taxiing. No none of these are terrible but it’s just a bit sloppy. The writing was just a bit too much, trying too hard. Just one example, “[she] materializes at our table with the stealth of a seasoned predator. She’s wearing a pantsuit the color of wet cement and a pair of Louboutin knockoffs that could double as ice picks. She has a handshake like a loan shark.” Not bad but still annoying when it’s the whole book. We didn’t even ever wrap up the ex story line and then somehow they’ve been dating for 6 months and she’s never seen his apartment. How??? Good spice but with the confusing plot line definitely not my favorite book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I love when I get to read these sweet romances because I feel like I always read too much dark romance so getting to read a cutesy second chance romance is always welcome and this is exactly what this way!
Going into this, I knew this story was going to take me on turns and twists, knowing that Anthony was hired to help Paige as her "date" after her heart gets broken by her cheating ex before her best friends wedding. Throw in the twist that Anthony is her brother's best friend and oh lord were we going to be in for a ride. After the awkward first few interactions, they both really settle into a comfortable pattern that continues to grow as they test the boundaries of their attraction to each other. I loved getting to see two people who have been hurt by their pasts begin to heal not only individually but together as well. Anthony's past struggles certainly had me reaching for tissues more than once and I am a sucker for a story about anyone who rises above their past addictions and fights for their future, especially after knowing someone who struggled to do so in my own personal life.
Hearing this story had a wedding theme similar to another story in this series had me a bit worried that I would be reading the same story over again, but I was happily surprised to see new life injected into the Foxy world and loved how different and unique this story was. This series so far has been nothing short of fantastic, and Anthony certainly helps that claim live up to the hype I have been putting out into the universe about these stories. This series continues to wow me and I am ever anxious to see what will happen next.
Back we go into the delightful chaos of Foxy’s Rent-a-Date, but this time the spotlight shines on Anthony—and let me tell you, this one hits different. Anthony was my very first Nina Brown, and honestly? It might also be the most intimate of all the Foxy’s tales I’ve dipped into so far.
The entire story unfolds over a single long weekend retreat for a bestie’s wedding, which already sets the stage for secrets, sparks, and a few cocktails too many. What Nina Brown delivers, however, is so much more: a beautifully raw look at love between two people bound by history, pain, and an undeniable second chance.
Yes, the tropes are all there—teenage crush on the older brother’s bestie, a casual-yet-fated reunion, the repentant cheating ex, the shadow of addiction—but Nina spins them into something heartfelt rather than cliché. Paige, quiet and hesitant, is learning to trust again; Anthony, grease-stained mechanic with his own demons, is resilience personified. Their shared past hums beneath every glance, every word, every almost-touch, making the romance both tender and electric.
It’s emotional, it’s funny, it’s romantic in that messy, irresistible way real love often is. And at its heart, Anthony reminds us that the cracks left by heartbreak aren’t flaws—they’re the places where love has room to grow.
Anthony is a captivating blend of heartache and hope. The story of a broken-hearted bridesmaid and a man with secrets unfolds beautifully, drawing you in from the start.
Nina’s writing shines as she explores the complexities of love and past mistakes. Anthony, initially just a “plus one,” becomes a relatable and endearing character. The chemistry between him and Paige is electric, filled with tension from their shared history.
Paige’s journey through betrayal and heartbreak is compelling, and I found myself rooting for her to find happiness. The backdrop of Foxy’s Rent-A-Date adds humor and depth, making the plot engaging with unexpected twists.
I’m thrilled to be part of this ARC team because I absolutely love this series! It’s so fun to read about each character on the Foxy’s Rent-A-Date roster. 😂
Overall, Anthony is a heartfelt exploration of second chances and the power of vulnerability. Nina Brown has crafted a story that’s both entertaining and moving. Highly recommend for anyone seeking a poignant romance!
Anthony and Paige have a bit of history together. He was her brother's friend, but when he brother passed, they had a falling out and are now reunited. Feelings are still there, but Anthony tries to keep his walls up.
I liked how Anthony's struggle with addition was portrayed. He is sober and you can see him struggle with his addiction when he gets in a bit of a stressful situation.
Paige needs a date for a wedding where he ex will be. She doesn't want to show up alone, so she hires Anthony to be her date. It was a good thing she did this as, even though he is with someone else, her ex keeps trying to get back with Paige. He doesn't seem to understand that she has moved on and he needs to do the same thing. However, Anthony is there for her to be the rock behind her and help her to stand up to her ex and put him in his place.
I really enjoyed this book in the Rent-A-Date series. Anthony and Paige have history, and it made their reunion feel both messy and meaningful. I liked that Anthony wasn’t written as this perfect guy and that he had flaws, regrets, and fears about slipping back into old patterns. That made his growth stand out even more.
Paige was easy to root for. She’d been through a lot, and I liked how she handled running into her ex while also trying to figure out her feelings for Anthony. One of my favorite parts was how Anthony supported her at the wedding—not just by keeping her ex at a distance, but by knowing when to step back and let her stand strong on her own.
It had the right mix of tension, a bit of steam, and a sweet second chance. They weren’t the same people they were years ago, and that made their connection this time around even more satisfying.
Such a heartbreaking and beautiful story from Nina Brown. Cheating ex who tries to run their new relationship in your face, a long lost love, over-coming addiction and trying to find the person who doesn't magically make things better, but is ready to weather the storm with you.
Anthony and Paige both have a lot of their own secrets and history, so watching them both coincidently cross paths again and the chaos (and tension) that ensues is so enjoyable. Nina Brown deals with some very deep topics with grace and elegance, while not shying away from the raw emotional pain of it all.
Susan may be one of the best ride-or-die besties ever and you know she is still claiming bragging rights even now that the book has ended. A very fun and emotional read from start to finish that I did not put down.
Anthony & Paige Whilst I liked the chemistry & second chance for them I felt the timeline was hard to follow / rushed. From the rehearsal back home to flying out for the 4 or 5 days of the wedding with a packed itinerary of events. Technically everything fit into the correct days but I felt it was rushed and couldn't see how everything fit into the time. Along with that there was a lot of talk of 4 years ago & Anthony's struggles but Paige didn't feel fleshed out. Brody asked if she was still at her job but little time had passed since they ended. Also when doing long distance did she never visit Anthony's home. I liked the awkwardness of Paige, the tension between them with their history and the way they progressed. It also stood apart from the other wedding date book in the series.
This was the first book I have read by this author. It is part of a series all written by different authors. This was about Paige. She was dating a guy Spencer but he ended up hooking up with a woman Nicole right in front of her at her friend’s party to celebrate her upcoming wedding. Her friend Susan helped her out that night when she was so upset. She would always hang out with her brother Adam and Anthony She went to watch their football games but not for her brother. After Adam’s funeral Anthony left and she ended up seeing him 4 years later when she hired him for a date for her friend’s wedding in Hawaii. It was susan’s idea to use the rent a date site. She didn’t know who she was getting until he showed up at the airport. Paige and Anthony talked a lot about the past and they cleared the air.
Quick read about Paige getting a revenge date to go her friend’s wedding. She has to reach out to rent a date after finding her then boyfriend in an awkward state with another girl. She fills out the information and gets the shock of a life time when she finds out who her date is at the airport. Anthony is her brothers best friend but also her first time. They haven’t seen each other in over four years, they were always attracted to one another but never took that step. The boundary was crossed after they were both in a rough spot. Reading their journey through wedding shenanigans and the protective side of Anthony come out when the any guy looks at Paige. Her bestie Susan will may you giggle with her playful banter towards their arrangement. If you love revenge date, ex is still around, brothers best friend read this .
I absolutely loved this story of Paige and Anthony, it is a second chance, opening your heart to love and more and brothers best friend.
What happens when you when a date to your best friends wedding, even more reason to bring a date is the fact that your ex who cheating on you will be there. You do what any sane person would do and get in touch with Foxy’s rent a date. Paige didnt expect for Anthony to turn up her brothers best friend and a man she hasn't seen in the past few years.
Anthony is mechanic who also works for Foxy and is a man battling his own demons with secrets.
These two have a connection something beyond a weekend date but can Paige get over her heartbreak and trust issues and can Anthony finally open up about past.
This story is beautifully written, romantic with the right level of emotion. Absolutely recommend.
This book is part of the Foxy's Rent-A-Date series. This is an amazing series written by many wonderful authors. I have never read a Nina Brown book prior to this. This book had me rooting for the FMC and MMC. I know the pain of having a cheating partner, so I love revenge dates/dating books. It is so satisfying when the ex realizes that the FMC has moved on. It kind of makes me feel like reliving a satisfying time in my life! I love the story, the characters and the backstory! One of my favorite characters (besides the FMC and MMC) is Susan. She is truly a ride or d!e bestie! Thank you, Nina Brown, for such a sweet, satisfying and smexy story. I look forward to reading more of your books!
Anthony is a touching mix of heartache and hope. From the very first chapter, the story of a heartbroken bridesmaid and a man carrying secrets pulls you right in.
The book starts off as Anthony just being a “plus one”—quickly grows into a character you can’t help but root for. His chemistry with Paige leaps off the page, full of tension, history, and that spark you can’t look away from.
Paige’s journey through betrayal and healing is both raw and inspiring, making her search for happiness easy to cheer for. The Foxy’s Rent-A-Date backdrop adds just the right balance of humor and heart, with fun twists that keep the story fresh.
The fake dating trope is one that always ticks the boxes when done right, Anthony was definitely done right. But so much more then renting a date for a wedding because of a cheating ex, Nina Brown delivers a book about redemption and second chances. A book with characters that are relatable, you can understand their feelings and emotions and you're with them through their journey to happiness. Wonderful writing, add Anthony to your TBR, he and Paige will definitely meet your expectations.
What do you do when your brother's best friend and your one night stand from four years ago shows up to a wedding as the date you rented? You freak out, naturally. And that's exactly what Paige does until she doesn't. It's almost like picking up where they left off but with the years apart making the flame grow hotter. I loved Susan as a side character. She was the perfect little sassy friend. I loved when Anthony and Paige finally opened up to each other and were just raw and honest. A love a good second chance (when it's deserved) and this story really filled my expectations.
Anthony is a heartfelt second-chance romance that swept me away. When Paige reconnects with her old high school flame, Anthony, years later, sparks fly once again. Nina Brown beautifully balances nostalgia with the reality of who they’ve become, making their journey of rediscovery both tender and believable.
I loved the mix of old memories, vulnerability, and the undeniable chemistry that brought their love story full circle. Perfect for fans of second-chance romances and small-town love stories.
Second chances are sometimes what are needed. Anthony and Paige knew each other in the past. They went through tragedy and then went their separate ways not by choice for one. Now when Paige needs it Anthony is back. Now it is time to clear the air and have a conversation that was well needed. I liked how these characters had real life obstacles they had to overcome. But that they were able to do that. I liked how this story showed that sometimes you meet the right person but it’s just the wrong time and then when it is the right time they come back.
Paige is a shy quiet type of woman. Anthony is a mechanic who is working his way through difficult times. They have a shared history, a sad one, but shared nonetheless. I love that Paige was able to overcome her issues with Spencer. Anthony had my heart. While mine was alcohol, I have had my own addictions and the fact that this covers them and the struggles he still faces daily, just made it that much better!
Ok, this one might just be my favorite out of all the Rent-Me novels so far.
First loves, second chances, recovery.
I felt Anthony's story was different from the other novels so far, in the sense that it didn't focus so much on Foxy's contract. Only the feelings and turmoil between Anthony and Paige.
And that sauna scene........dang!
Best quote ever: "....panting like we just outswam a shark." 🤣
Anthony and Paige made for a wonderful second chance romance. I love a reformed bad boy, and Anthony is exactly that. The depth of his backstory is perfect, and I love his banter with everyone, and how friendly and protective he is over Paige, without being overboard. He was absolutely perfect around Spencer, and helped shield Paige, but also gave her the space to hold her own. This story had a beautiful emotional touch to it, and a perfect amount of steam. Wonderful read!
I loved how this story played out. There were a number of ways this could have gone, and I am so happy the direction it went. Love Paige and Anthony together. They have a history and after a surprise reunion, these two have to either choose to sink or swim. I appreciated how Anthony’s struggles were addressed and how supportive Paige is.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read by Nina Brown! It was my first of her books I have read, and it was well written, entertaining, and she really made you connect with the characters. Dealing with a broken heart, Paige unwittingly hires someone from her past to be her boyfriend for a wedding weekend. With history and pain shimmering between them, there is no denying the chemistry between the two of them. You will love watching this romance unfold!
This wonderful second chance romance is another great story in the Foxy's Rent-A-Date series. I was hooked start to finish. I loved Paige and Anthony together. They new each other when they were young. She needs a date to a wedding and unknowingly hires him sparking their reunion. It's wonderful how they get through the events of the past to their happy ending.
Quick and easy, this relatively light and sweet read features Paige and Anthony, who share a past history together. I appreciated the awkwardness of their reunion as they attempt to reestablish their friendship and explore something more. However, the story felt a bit disjointed at times.
After catching her boyfriend with another woman, Paige must find another date for her best friend's wedding. Her friend sets her up with a rent-a-date, who ends up being a face from her past. Anthony is a mechanic and a part-time rent-a-date. This is a fun and sweet romance with surprising depth as characters face some pretty serious issues on their path to finding a HEA.
Second chances are quickly starting to become a favorite tropes, and this is a great example for why that is. Lots of tension and hesitation, but once things took off it was uphill from there.
Anthony... what can I say... a story of a cheating husband, needing a date for a best friend's wedding, and Rent-A-Date. Paige is heartbroken, needs a date for her best friend's wedding and rents Anthony from Foxy's. Their chemistry is on fire. Their relationship is filled with tension... plus they have history! So add in a second chance romance to the mix and this story is entertaining to the max. Nina did a beautiful job drawing out the emotions in her characters to make them felt by the reader. Her writing is captivating and I highly recommend this book!