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Rust Canyon #1
Festive Faking
Going home for the holidays is never easy. But it’s next to impossible when you’ve just been dumped.
Just when I think it can’t get any worse, my grad school nemesis, billionaire playboy Macallan Blaze, finds me sulking, trying to figure out a Plan B.
Life’s a game to him, so when he offers to stand in as my fake boyfriend, I think he's joking. But he's dead serious.
And it’s not like I can afford to turn him down. My tiny hometown only consists of 600 residents, where everyone knows everyone, and gossip spreads faster than wildfire.
Of freaking course, everyone falls in love with Mac the minute they meet him, and it’s like he grew up in Rust Canyon.
But when he lets the cocky facade slip and shows peeks of the man behind the mask, I start to think that maybe I shouldn’t have been so quick to judge.
The scariest part of all is that I might actually like him.
Just when I think it can’t get any worse, my grad school nemesis, billionaire playboy Macallan Blaze, finds me sulking, trying to figure out a Plan B.
Life’s a game to him, so when he offers to stand in as my fake boyfriend, I think he's joking. But he's dead serious.
And it’s not like I can afford to turn him down. My tiny hometown only consists of 600 residents, where everyone knows everyone, and gossip spreads faster than wildfire.
Of freaking course, everyone falls in love with Mac the minute they meet him, and it’s like he grew up in Rust Canyon.
But when he lets the cocky facade slip and shows peeks of the man behind the mask, I start to think that maybe I shouldn’t have been so quick to judge.
The scariest part of all is that I might actually like him.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2024
About the author
Siena Trap
20 books586 followersSiena is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where a love of sports is bred into a girl's DNA. Her love of romance novels came early as well. She would often accompany her romance reviewer mom to book lovers' and romance writers' conventions, where she sat in on workshops and met numerous best-selling authors. It wasn't long before she was filling notebooks with her own stories, which often starred herself and a certain real-life prince.
As luck would have it, she met and married a handsome athlete instead. After several temporary residencies in multiple states and Germany, they finally settled in Michigan, the land where youth hockey reigns supreme.
Her stories no longer feature herself but draw from her past experiences as an educator, businesswoman, fashion consultant, and world traveler when creating her strong heroines. “Oh yes,” she says with a wink and a smile, “There are bits of me in all of them.” Now, she spends her days writing happily ever afters for fictional characters and her evenings at the local hockey arenas cheering for her three children.
As luck would have it, she met and married a handsome athlete instead. After several temporary residencies in multiple states and Germany, they finally settled in Michigan, the land where youth hockey reigns supreme.
Her stories no longer feature herself but draw from her past experiences as an educator, businesswoman, fashion consultant, and world traveler when creating her strong heroines. “Oh yes,” she says with a wink and a smile, “There are bits of me in all of them.” Now, she spends her days writing happily ever afters for fictional characters and her evenings at the local hockey arenas cheering for her three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 515 reviews
April 24, 2026
3.5 stars
Cute holiday read! I enjoyed this one.
Cute holiday read! I enjoyed this one.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Scott Rose & Jasmin Song
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 5h 17m
November 3, 2024
⤳4 stars ★ | “truth or dare, aspen?”
guys i haven’t written an actual review in so long so if this sucks then pls just bear with me because i need everyone to know they need to read this the second it comes out.
tldr – if you’re searching for an elsie silver-esque vibe in literally every aspect of the book then this is for you.
we get alllll the small town vibes, we get found family, we get banter and spice and great side characters and the one bed trope (!!!) and so much more. bonus for the fake dating because hi! my fav!
aspen and mac were absolutely everything. i was really surprised at how connected i became to them as individuals and how much i was able to feel their chemistry considering this is only 200 pages. both of them are so well developed and more than meets the eye, and seeing them really get to know each other throughout the story was so sweet. and again the chemistry and the tension!!!! fake dating done right 🫡
like i said the side characters were also so fun to meet. this is first in a series so you were kind of able to see who the future couples would be and it’s got me so excited for them (bex and tanner? hello i need their book rn?). and i just need to be back in rust canyon immediately because i’m already so in love with it.
this was my first siena trap book and 100% not my last because her writing? chef’s kiss omg i was obsessed with it. literally reminded me so much of elsie silver and that is one of the biggest compliments i could ever give to a romance author. now i have to go get into her backlist while i wait for the next book in this series sigh my poor tbr 🫠
so for the coziest christmas romance vibes, pick this up!!! i mean it so seriously when i say if you like elsie silver, lyla sage, etc. then you NEEEEED to get into this. can also double as an excuse to play christmas music in november if you’re *that* person (still love u!!!) 🎄🎁🎅🏼🌟
biggest thank you EVER to siena for the arc <3
pre read
got the arc and am using it as an excuse to mentally get into the christmas mood 💜🌲
guys i haven’t written an actual review in so long so if this sucks then pls just bear with me because i need everyone to know they need to read this the second it comes out.
tldr – if you’re searching for an elsie silver-esque vibe in literally every aspect of the book then this is for you.
we get alllll the small town vibes, we get found family, we get banter and spice and great side characters and the one bed trope (!!!) and so much more. bonus for the fake dating because hi! my fav!
aspen and mac were absolutely everything. i was really surprised at how connected i became to them as individuals and how much i was able to feel their chemistry considering this is only 200 pages. both of them are so well developed and more than meets the eye, and seeing them really get to know each other throughout the story was so sweet. and again the chemistry and the tension!!!! fake dating done right 🫡
like i said the side characters were also so fun to meet. this is first in a series so you were kind of able to see who the future couples would be and it’s got me so excited for them (bex and tanner? hello i need their book rn?). and i just need to be back in rust canyon immediately because i’m already so in love with it.
this was my first siena trap book and 100% not my last because her writing? chef’s kiss omg i was obsessed with it. literally reminded me so much of elsie silver and that is one of the biggest compliments i could ever give to a romance author. now i have to go get into her backlist while i wait for the next book in this series sigh my poor tbr 🫠
so for the coziest christmas romance vibes, pick this up!!! i mean it so seriously when i say if you like elsie silver, lyla sage, etc. then you NEEEEED to get into this. can also double as an excuse to play christmas music in november if you’re *that* person (still love u!!!) 🎄🎁🎅🏼🌟
biggest thank you EVER to siena for the arc <3
pre read
got the arc and am using it as an excuse to mentally get into the christmas mood 💜🌲
November 4, 2024
Not super short but not long, a cute holiday book! Enemies to lovers and forced proximity, it gave all the vibes of coming home for holidays for sure but of course with twists. Aspen and Mac are classmates and rivals in college, and after another relationship ending Aspen does not want to go home alone after yet another failed relationship…. in steps in Mac willing to help and pretend. Yes you know where it’s going, but it’s the journey getting there and both back stories that draw you in going OMG yes more more more! Speaking of it now I have to see where this next story is going! Loved it!
November 13, 2024
If you are looking for a fun holiday read, that's a fast paced, easy fun read...look no further. This adorable little novella will get right into the holiday spirit. I absolutely ate this up. We get small town vibes, found family, banter, spice...and one bed trope with some fake dating!!!!
This novella follows Aspen and Mac, who are rivals at in their masters program. Mac finds Aspen in their school library in a spiral because she promised her parents that she was bringing home her boyfriend. Turns out her and the boyfriend had broken up and when Mac offers to fill in, she agrees.
I cannot get enough of Mac. I just love a MMC who has been secret pining after the FMC. He would literally do anything for her to make her happy and I was so glad when Aspen finally caught up. They were so perfect for one another and seeing them dance around one another made me so giddy. And when that tension finally broke...it was incredibly hot.
I cannot wait to continue this series. Thank you Siena and team for the eARC.
Overall: 4.5
Spice: 3
Tropes:
- Small Town
- Fake Dating
- Forced Proximity
- Holiday Novella
This novella follows Aspen and Mac, who are rivals at in their masters program. Mac finds Aspen in their school library in a spiral because she promised her parents that she was bringing home her boyfriend. Turns out her and the boyfriend had broken up and when Mac offers to fill in, she agrees.
I cannot get enough of Mac. I just love a MMC who has been secret pining after the FMC. He would literally do anything for her to make her happy and I was so glad when Aspen finally caught up. They were so perfect for one another and seeing them dance around one another made me so giddy. And when that tension finally broke...it was incredibly hot.
I cannot wait to continue this series. Thank you Siena and team for the eARC.
Overall: 4.5
Spice: 3
Tropes:
- Small Town
- Fake Dating
- Forced Proximity
- Holiday Novella
November 12, 2024
just another manwhore x virgin trope. both are of same age and yet he's been with many op and her with none. i usually dnf it right away but decided to finish it and it was an alright read. even though him being a hoe is usually a turn off, since he has eyes only for her and worked for it, i liked him. that was until he made friend with H of next book who is essentially a cheater (cheating not confirmed, see note below). h on the other hand acted like a petulant teenager most times esp during the spicy scenes which was a lot cringe.
the next part contains spoilers for the next book, feel free to skip it
[this is book 1 and tropes for book 2 has been heavily hinted. H of that book dumps h, his so called love of his life/ childhood sweetheart who supported his career and marries ow. h is heartbroken over his betrayal and hasn't been back home in a decade since running away at 18.
note - he starts a friendship with H of this book and becomes best man and h has to come back to the town for the wedding as maid of honor
it looks like either he cheated/ was with ow during the break or it's probably the cliched i got ow pregnant during the break trope. and before anyone comes at me for it, all of this is just guess work from what shown or hinted in this book obv. either ways all these sound gross and disgusting to me, emphasis on 'me' here, so i'll be staying very far away from this author and her next books of this series]
the next part contains spoilers for the next book, feel free to skip it
[this is book 1 and tropes for book 2 has been heavily hinted. H of that book dumps h, his so called love of his life/ childhood sweetheart who supported his career and marries ow. h is heartbroken over his betrayal and hasn't been back home in a decade since running away at 18.
note - he starts a friendship with H of this book and becomes best man and h has to come back to the town for the wedding as maid of honor
it looks like either he cheated/ was with ow during the break or it's probably the cliched i got ow pregnant during the break trope. and before anyone comes at me for it, all of this is just guess work from what shown or hinted in this book obv. either ways all these sound gross and disgusting to me, emphasis on 'me' here, so i'll be staying very far away from this author and her next books of this series]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2024
This is more of a shorter book than a novella and I soooo wish it was longer! It’s the story of Mac & Aspen.
I loved it despite there being no angst. Mac carried the whole story on his shoulders. He is amazing! Caring, tender, cute, funny- a book boyfriend that could actually exist irl.
I liked how Siena describes their intimate moments, they felt so real.
Aspen was ok, didn’t exactly excite me. I’d expect her to be smarter and understand what were Mac’s intentions but nope, couldn’t see what was right in front of her.
I also liked a couple of Easter eggs thrown in there as well ☺️ I will definitely read the next book in the series.
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Overall: 4.25/5 ⭐️ for me.
Thank you Siena for providing the arc of this book for review!
I loved it despite there being no angst. Mac carried the whole story on his shoulders. He is amazing! Caring, tender, cute, funny- a book boyfriend that could actually exist irl.
I liked how Siena describes their intimate moments, they felt so real.
Aspen was ok, didn’t exactly excite me. I’d expect her to be smarter and understand what were Mac’s intentions but nope, couldn’t see what was right in front of her.
I also liked a couple of Easter eggs thrown in there as well ☺️ I will definitely read the next book in the series.
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Overall: 4.25/5 ⭐️ for me.
Thank you Siena for providing the arc of this book for review!
November 30, 2024
I wanted a quick “hallmark Christmas movie” feel good and this one really hit the spot. The story takes place in a small rural town of the FMC and she brings along her enemy to lover from LA to fake date their way through the holidays to appease her family. Festive Faking was a short and cute book to bring in the holidays.
November 3, 2024
“From the moment I saw her, I knew she was special, but I’d had no idea she would be the key to unlocking my future.”
✨Holiday Novella
✨Academic Rivals
✨Fake Dating
✨Small Town
✨Opposites Attract
If you’re looking for a cutesy, steamy, small town, Christmas love story, then look no further!! This book actually made me even more excited about the holiday season.
Aspen and Mac are two complete opposites: Aspen is from a small town and is chasing her dreams in the big city of LA, Mac comes from a high-profile, rich family and is expected to follow his father’s footsteps. Mac loves to tease and annoy Aspen and she gives it right back, not knowing that Mac is completely obsessed with her, making the banter so much fun to read. This is my favorite kind of fake dating scenario (when the MMC is secretly obsessed with the FMC and wants to prove how much) and this one did not disappoint. I think I was blushing just as much as Aspen was throughout this story.
The small town vibes in this book are so accurate and relatable—knowing every person you run into, helping one another without expecting something in return, people knowing everyone’s business, and doing activities to bring the community together as a whole. That’s exactly what Rust Canyon is all about and it’s super sweet. I loved the sense of belonging the community gives to newcomers and the warmth you can feel throughout the story. Mac was able to show his true colors and his cocky facade slipped away when he entered Rust Canyon. On top of how he treated Aspen with such kindness and adoration, Mac is an amazing book boyfriend and will make you swoon.
This is such a great introduction into Siena Trap’s newest small-town series and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store. Huge shoutout and thank you to Siena Trap for the eARC!!
✨Holiday Novella
✨Academic Rivals
✨Fake Dating
✨Small Town
✨Opposites Attract
If you’re looking for a cutesy, steamy, small town, Christmas love story, then look no further!! This book actually made me even more excited about the holiday season.
Aspen and Mac are two complete opposites: Aspen is from a small town and is chasing her dreams in the big city of LA, Mac comes from a high-profile, rich family and is expected to follow his father’s footsteps. Mac loves to tease and annoy Aspen and she gives it right back, not knowing that Mac is completely obsessed with her, making the banter so much fun to read. This is my favorite kind of fake dating scenario (when the MMC is secretly obsessed with the FMC and wants to prove how much) and this one did not disappoint. I think I was blushing just as much as Aspen was throughout this story.
The small town vibes in this book are so accurate and relatable—knowing every person you run into, helping one another without expecting something in return, people knowing everyone’s business, and doing activities to bring the community together as a whole. That’s exactly what Rust Canyon is all about and it’s super sweet. I loved the sense of belonging the community gives to newcomers and the warmth you can feel throughout the story. Mac was able to show his true colors and his cocky facade slipped away when he entered Rust Canyon. On top of how he treated Aspen with such kindness and adoration, Mac is an amazing book boyfriend and will make you swoon.
This is such a great introduction into Siena Trap’s newest small-town series and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store. Huge shoutout and thank you to Siena Trap for the eARC!!
November 12, 2024
A cute way to start the holiday season 🎄
The story feels like it took off with a jolt, slightly rushed, but it all fell into place.
Aspen has her walls up, doors locked, and shades drawn. She thinks she knows what she wants and needs, but that could not be further from the truth. She is strong, independent, and stubborn. I enjoyed watching her evolve and let her walls down to further understand Mac and where he comes from. She discovered a lot about herself along the way.
Mac is that guy you really want to take home to meet mom and dad. The years of living in his family's shadow has shown him how to charm, but his charm is truly genuine. He didn't know what he wanted exactly, but he knew one thing, Aspen was always in his plans. He would do anything to win her over, even if it was fake (for her).
The characters had great chemistry, and the banter was wonderful. I would have loved a longer story with more background on both characters. I can't wait to see what else Rust Canyon has to offer.
The story feels like it took off with a jolt, slightly rushed, but it all fell into place.
Aspen has her walls up, doors locked, and shades drawn. She thinks she knows what she wants and needs, but that could not be further from the truth. She is strong, independent, and stubborn. I enjoyed watching her evolve and let her walls down to further understand Mac and where he comes from. She discovered a lot about herself along the way.
Mac is that guy you really want to take home to meet mom and dad. The years of living in his family's shadow has shown him how to charm, but his charm is truly genuine. He didn't know what he wanted exactly, but he knew one thing, Aspen was always in his plans. He would do anything to win her over, even if it was fake (for her).
The characters had great chemistry, and the banter was wonderful. I would have loved a longer story with more background on both characters. I can't wait to see what else Rust Canyon has to offer.
November 28, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
November 28, 2024
More like a 4.5🤩 SO glad I read this book! Cute Christmas vibes, small town, sweet family!
December 22, 2025
A cute Christmas romance that was an easy read. I liked the festive elements of the book but the enemies-to-lovers trope didn’t quite land. Were they ever really enemies?
With all that being said, the series shows promise, and the buildup for the next books was well done so I’ll definitely be continuing.
With all that being said, the series shows promise, and the buildup for the next books was well done so I’ll definitely be continuing.
December 1, 2024
Loved!!!!
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 2/5
I absolutely loved this holiday novella!!! It’s was the perfect way to kick start this new series. I just love the MMC Siena writes and Mac was no exception. He had me laughing at his joking ways but also wanting to give him a hug because of how his family life had him feeling. It took a while for Aspen to come around and get on board with him actually liking her but once she did, they were perfection! But listen, if we are being honest, Meemaw was the real star of the show. 🤣
🌲 Holiday Novella
🌲 Forced Proximity
🌲 Fake Dating
🌲 Academic Rivals
🌲 Billionaire MMC
🌲 Virgin FMC
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 2/5
I absolutely loved this holiday novella!!! It’s was the perfect way to kick start this new series. I just love the MMC Siena writes and Mac was no exception. He had me laughing at his joking ways but also wanting to give him a hug because of how his family life had him feeling. It took a while for Aspen to come around and get on board with him actually liking her but once she did, they were perfection! But listen, if we are being honest, Meemaw was the real star of the show. 🤣
🌲 Holiday Novella
🌲 Forced Proximity
🌲 Fake Dating
🌲 Academic Rivals
🌲 Billionaire MMC
🌲 Virgin FMC
May 3, 2026
4.5 fake boyfriend stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.✨️
3 slow-burn 🌶
3 slow-burn 🌶
November 12, 2024
More like 3.5 ⭐️! This book is the definition of a Hallmark movie and I absolutely loved how fast paced it was. As an Okie, I love how the Rust Canyon town was portrayed as small town USA. I honestly wish this book had been longer and included the build up of Mac and Aspen’s rivalry at the beginning. Overall, this was such a satisfying quick read and I will absolutely be reading the second one!
Thanks to Sierra for sending me the e-ARC!
Thanks to Sierra for sending me the e-ARC!
December 21, 2024
1.5/5
HOW is this so highly rated? 5 days before Christmas
and this book has me turning into the Grinch
HOW is this so highly rated? 5 days before Christmas
and this book has me turning into the Grinch
November 3, 2024
I COULD NOT WAIT for a new series and this CUTE ASS ADORABLE little Christmas novella to start off the Rust Canyon series, started that shit off IN THE BEST WAY!
With the way that we met Aspen, and as we dove more into her, I KNEW that I was going to ABSOLUTELY LOVE HER. Of course being a fiery red head, how could you not? We have a little firecracker in our midst, and it was ICONIC. And my god she was a GODDAMN SWEETHEART. Cue one of the most kindhearted, selfless and caring people and I LOVED IT… and so did Mac *smirk*. Can I bottle this man up? PLEASE. I just LOVED everything about Mac, especially how he was able to shine in the best of ways, most of all when he was around Aspen. And the way he showed up for her, and everything in between, made my little heart BURST AT THE SEAMS. I could not with him, and I need a man like him in my life, FOR REAL.
I LOVE the aspect of a small-town country romance, and this DEFINITELY WAS EXACTLY THAT. Of course with the edition of Christmas, IT WAS SO DAMN CUTE I COULD DIE. From Aspen & Mac’s FUCKING ADORABLE adventures, to the introductions to the characters that we’ll be seeing more of, as well as a cameo from Frozen Heart Face-Off, this was everything I expected it to be and more. I am always excited to have a new book from Siena in my hands, as I ALWAYS KNOW it is going to be everything, and I will love every damn second. I CANNOT WAIT to journey down the rest of the Rust Canyon series, fall in love with specific characters and be apart of the Rust Canyon community for life.
With the way that we met Aspen, and as we dove more into her, I KNEW that I was going to ABSOLUTELY LOVE HER. Of course being a fiery red head, how could you not? We have a little firecracker in our midst, and it was ICONIC. And my god she was a GODDAMN SWEETHEART. Cue one of the most kindhearted, selfless and caring people and I LOVED IT… and so did Mac *smirk*. Can I bottle this man up? PLEASE. I just LOVED everything about Mac, especially how he was able to shine in the best of ways, most of all when he was around Aspen. And the way he showed up for her, and everything in between, made my little heart BURST AT THE SEAMS. I could not with him, and I need a man like him in my life, FOR REAL.
I LOVE the aspect of a small-town country romance, and this DEFINITELY WAS EXACTLY THAT. Of course with the edition of Christmas, IT WAS SO DAMN CUTE I COULD DIE. From Aspen & Mac’s FUCKING ADORABLE adventures, to the introductions to the characters that we’ll be seeing more of, as well as a cameo from Frozen Heart Face-Off, this was everything I expected it to be and more. I am always excited to have a new book from Siena in my hands, as I ALWAYS KNOW it is going to be everything, and I will love every damn second. I CANNOT WAIT to journey down the rest of the Rust Canyon series, fall in love with specific characters and be apart of the Rust Canyon community for life.
November 13, 2024
“You were destined for greatness, Aspen. I don’t believe for one second that you’ll be happy stifling your creativity working for some big firm where they take that away from you.”
This was a cute little holiday novella! I wish it was closer to Christmas because it was definitely giving Hallmark Christmas vibes (with a side of spice). If you’re looking for a “country” Christmas book to read, def check this one out.
Mac def fell first and HARD for Aspen but in the best way! Esp when he was supposed to be this stuck up rich boy who only thinks about himself. He’s actually funny and caring and so so sweet, but also can be very naughty when he wants to be. I love how much he cared for Aspen in all aspects of her life, not just purely off of her looks. And the fact that he just wants to help her pursue her dreams?? 🥺❤️
Meemaw was probably my favorite side character, closely followed by Daisy! I love meddling family members (when they aren’t my own lol).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥💥
Tropes:
🎄 Fake Dating
🎄 Only One Bed
🎄 Frenemies to Lovers
🎄 He Falls First
🎄 Small Town
🎄 Country Girl x City Boy
🎄 Grumpy/Sunshine
This was a cute little holiday novella! I wish it was closer to Christmas because it was definitely giving Hallmark Christmas vibes (with a side of spice). If you’re looking for a “country” Christmas book to read, def check this one out.
Mac def fell first and HARD for Aspen but in the best way! Esp when he was supposed to be this stuck up rich boy who only thinks about himself. He’s actually funny and caring and so so sweet, but also can be very naughty when he wants to be. I love how much he cared for Aspen in all aspects of her life, not just purely off of her looks. And the fact that he just wants to help her pursue her dreams?? 🥺❤️
Meemaw was probably my favorite side character, closely followed by Daisy! I love meddling family members (when they aren’t my own lol).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥💥
Tropes:
🎄 Fake Dating
🎄 Only One Bed
🎄 Frenemies to Lovers
🎄 He Falls First
🎄 Small Town
🎄 Country Girl x City Boy
🎄 Grumpy/Sunshine
November 12, 2024
Festive Faking
Mac and Aspen
Ok this one might be one of my favorites by Siena so far. It was short and sweet with some spice as well. The story just kept you pulled in from the beginning there were no lulls in it. It was fast paced but thorough, not leaving gaps.
Mac is your typical character playboy with a cockiness about him and Aspen love her heart couldn’t pick a man to save her life. So when Aspen’s relationship fails again right before a trip home for the holidays Mac is there to step in.
Mac is an undercover golden retriever at heart and reading about how much he actually cares for Aspen is so sweet. Watching him break out of his shell and be vulnerable with her and for her was amazing. Aspen is a hot mess express. With doubts, walls and a stubborn streak a mile wide. She was such a relatable character. A little closed off and not will to jump when that’s all she wanted to do for fear of failing.
It was truly a great read just in time for the holidays and so glad we got a few mentions of characters to come and from the past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Mac and Aspen
Ok this one might be one of my favorites by Siena so far. It was short and sweet with some spice as well. The story just kept you pulled in from the beginning there were no lulls in it. It was fast paced but thorough, not leaving gaps.
Mac is your typical character playboy with a cockiness about him and Aspen love her heart couldn’t pick a man to save her life. So when Aspen’s relationship fails again right before a trip home for the holidays Mac is there to step in.
Mac is an undercover golden retriever at heart and reading about how much he actually cares for Aspen is so sweet. Watching him break out of his shell and be vulnerable with her and for her was amazing. Aspen is a hot mess express. With doubts, walls and a stubborn streak a mile wide. She was such a relatable character. A little closed off and not will to jump when that’s all she wanted to do for fear of failing.
It was truly a great read just in time for the holidays and so glad we got a few mentions of characters to come and from the past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 5, 2024
4.5 stars <3
This was such a fun way to start off the holiday season, and it pulled me out of a three-month-long reading slump.
Mac and Aspen were so fun to read about, especially because he made it SO obvious how down bad for her he truly was.
Aspen was so closed off, with so many failed relationships, I couldn't blame her for not wanting to read too far into how Mac was acting, especially because of how she viewed him. Aspen was happy keeping him in a box and shoving it away. I really resonated with how hard she questioned every little action, because same here girl.
Mac was such a fun character. He truly is the epitome of the man you want to take home to your family. He has the boy next door charm that has you melting at his feet. I loved him, and it was so refreshing to read a character that wasn't so sure about his future but was so confident that Aspen would be in it.
Overall a super fun read! Highly recommended for a fun start to the holiday season!
tropes:
Academic Rivals
One Bed
Small Town
Boy falls first
Thank you, Siena, for the advanced copy <3
This was such a fun way to start off the holiday season, and it pulled me out of a three-month-long reading slump.
Mac and Aspen were so fun to read about, especially because he made it SO obvious how down bad for her he truly was.
Aspen was so closed off, with so many failed relationships, I couldn't blame her for not wanting to read too far into how Mac was acting, especially because of how she viewed him. Aspen was happy keeping him in a box and shoving it away. I really resonated with how hard she questioned every little action, because same here girl.
Mac was such a fun character. He truly is the epitome of the man you want to take home to your family. He has the boy next door charm that has you melting at his feet. I loved him, and it was so refreshing to read a character that wasn't so sure about his future but was so confident that Aspen would be in it.
Overall a super fun read! Highly recommended for a fun start to the holiday season!
tropes:
Academic Rivals
One Bed
Small Town
Boy falls first
Thank you, Siena, for the advanced copy <3
November 14, 2024
ugh, where to start.
The writing style is amazing, I was captivated from the very start and it kept me hooked till the end.
Was a book I literally couldn't put down until I finished it, perfect for those days where you just need a good, cozy, feel good type of read.
I love the dynamic of the two main characters, love the banter and the connection. I normally don't go for multiple POV books but this one did it perfectly.
My only complaint is the supporting characters seemed a little lacking. I wanted more Meemaw, like a lot more. I loved the old lady who had no filter. I wanted more from Jett, the father who had a lot of potential. From Tripp, her brother pining after his best friend (also, wanted an update to that in the end).
For sure will be checking out the rest of the series, I'm hooked!
The writing style is amazing, I was captivated from the very start and it kept me hooked till the end.
Was a book I literally couldn't put down until I finished it, perfect for those days where you just need a good, cozy, feel good type of read.
I love the dynamic of the two main characters, love the banter and the connection. I normally don't go for multiple POV books but this one did it perfectly.
My only complaint is the supporting characters seemed a little lacking. I wanted more Meemaw, like a lot more. I loved the old lady who had no filter. I wanted more from Jett, the father who had a lot of potential. From Tripp, her brother pining after his best friend (also, wanted an update to that in the end).
For sure will be checking out the rest of the series, I'm hooked!
November 4, 2024
Y’all, I was so lucky to get on the ARC team for Festive Faking, and let me tell you—it’s spicy Hallmark vibes at its finest! This book had me hooked from the very first page.
Tropes we love:
• Forced proximity
• Fake relationship
• He falls first
• Banter that’s to die for!
Aspen is our strong, sensitive, small-town girl who’s chasing her dreams in the big city. Enter Mac, the irresistibly handsome billionaire “thorn in her side” who can’t help but stir things up. When Mac offers to help by going back to Oklahoma with Aspen for Christmas, sparks fly—and let’s just say, they’re getting to know each other in all the right ways. But with all that heat, are they still faking it, or is there something real brewing under the mistletoe?
Special shoutout to Daisy and Meemaw! They’re such fun characters and had me laughing out loud!
I will definitely be rereading Festive Faking and can’t wait to dive into the rest of the Rust Canyon series!
Tropes we love:
• Forced proximity
• Fake relationship
• He falls first
• Banter that’s to die for!
Aspen is our strong, sensitive, small-town girl who’s chasing her dreams in the big city. Enter Mac, the irresistibly handsome billionaire “thorn in her side” who can’t help but stir things up. When Mac offers to help by going back to Oklahoma with Aspen for Christmas, sparks fly—and let’s just say, they’re getting to know each other in all the right ways. But with all that heat, are they still faking it, or is there something real brewing under the mistletoe?
Special shoutout to Daisy and Meemaw! They’re such fun characters and had me laughing out loud!
I will definitely be rereading Festive Faking and can’t wait to dive into the rest of the Rust Canyon series!
November 7, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was super cute and although it was a novella, it didn’t seem too short.
I loved Aspen and her personality. I liked the fact that she realized she missed home and was happy to be back. I loved Mac as well. He was such a sweetheart and I enjoyed learning more about his as the book went on. Meemaw had me cracking up with her comments, while the rest of Aspen’s family and friends were great too.
This book does jump into the fake dating very quickly. This story takes place over a week. Although it was only a week, I liked the pacing of the events that took place. This book does have spice! If you love short, holiday romances, I would recommend this book!
Thank you Siena Trap and Happily Booked PR for the ARC for an honest review
I loved Aspen and her personality. I liked the fact that she realized she missed home and was happy to be back. I loved Mac as well. He was such a sweetheart and I enjoyed learning more about his as the book went on. Meemaw had me cracking up with her comments, while the rest of Aspen’s family and friends were great too.
This book does jump into the fake dating very quickly. This story takes place over a week. Although it was only a week, I liked the pacing of the events that took place. This book does have spice! If you love short, holiday romances, I would recommend this book!
Thank you Siena Trap and Happily Booked PR for the ARC for an honest review
November 12, 2024
Siena just knows how to make me fall in love with a book! This book was cute, heart warming, and spicy and wrapped in one. It was a quick and easy novella read.
Aspen finds herself single again and not wanting to go back home “single” when her family thinks she is being a boyfriend home for Christmas. That’s when her school rival Mac offers to step in as a fake boyfriend for the holidays. One week together, can’t be that bad, right?
I love the special touches brought into this book. The memories of the small cottage, the horse ornament, Christmas baking, it was so warm and cozy. Aspen and Mac had a deep connection everyone could see, but Aspen. I couldn’t help but root for Mac to get the girl he wanted.
Aspen finds herself single again and not wanting to go back home “single” when her family thinks she is being a boyfriend home for Christmas. That’s when her school rival Mac offers to step in as a fake boyfriend for the holidays. One week together, can’t be that bad, right?
I love the special touches brought into this book. The memories of the small cottage, the horse ornament, Christmas baking, it was so warm and cozy. Aspen and Mac had a deep connection everyone could see, but Aspen. I couldn’t help but root for Mac to get the girl he wanted.
December 24, 2024
Mac and Aspen’s story at Christmas in a little town called Rust Canyon!
Aspen, our FMC, grew up in rust canyon and moved to la to pursue a degree where she met her academic rival in Mac. Mac, our MMC, not just her rival but a man with a one sided attraction where she treats him like nothing more than a billionaire playboy she believes him to be.
Mac has so,e seriously swoon worthy lines in this book and I am here for them. As a small town country girl myself it takes a lot of balls to fake date a country girl and follow her home to her families ranch at Christmas.
This story played out beautifully just enough of everything, I only wish that it could have been longer the ending felt a bit rushed to me.
Solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ with a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ scale.
Aspen, our FMC, grew up in rust canyon and moved to la to pursue a degree where she met her academic rival in Mac. Mac, our MMC, not just her rival but a man with a one sided attraction where she treats him like nothing more than a billionaire playboy she believes him to be.
Mac has so,e seriously swoon worthy lines in this book and I am here for them. As a small town country girl myself it takes a lot of balls to fake date a country girl and follow her home to her families ranch at Christmas.
This story played out beautifully just enough of everything, I only wish that it could have been longer the ending felt a bit rushed to me.
Solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ with a 🌶️🌶️🌶️ scale.
March 20, 2025
Let's talk Festive Faking
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2 🌶🌶 (2+ descriptive intimate scenes)
The Menu:
Fake Dating
Small Town
Virgin FMC
Dislike to Lovers
Sienna Trap never fails to deliver, and this perfect little holiday novella serves as an excellent bridge and takes us away from our favorite hockey team, the Indy Speed, and brings us back to Rust Canyon Heada up that this one moves at a pretty quick speed, with Mac (the MMC) definitely falling first for FMC Aspen and wasting no time once he makes his decision
This story is short, sweet, and absolutely a lead in to the next book. But I love that Mac made a decision for himself, and there was no hullabaloo or argument dealing with his family about his decision. We stan an independent (-ly wealthy) king.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2 🌶🌶 (2+ descriptive intimate scenes)
The Menu:
Fake Dating
Small Town
Virgin FMC
Dislike to Lovers
Sienna Trap never fails to deliver, and this perfect little holiday novella serves as an excellent bridge and takes us away from our favorite hockey team, the Indy Speed, and brings us back to Rust Canyon Heada up that this one moves at a pretty quick speed, with Mac (the MMC) definitely falling first for FMC Aspen and wasting no time once he makes his decision
This story is short, sweet, and absolutely a lead in to the next book. But I love that Mac made a decision for himself, and there was no hullabaloo or argument dealing with his family about his decision. We stan an independent (-ly wealthy) king.
November 6, 2024
ARC REVIEW
✨ Fake dating
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Small Town
✨ Academic Rivals
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Golden Retriever Billionaire MMC / Country girl FMC
This was my first read from Siena Trap and I loved it. This book is such a cutesy (but also spicy) read. It felt like the perfect way to start off the holidays and get me into the spirit. I also ABSOUTLY loved Mac and it made me want more of him! I did feel like the book was rushed through in the beginning, but everything seemed to come together by the end. I think Mac and Aspen are amazing and It made me feel like I was watching a hallmark movie (but with some extra sugar and spice). Highly recommend this read!
✨ Fake dating
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Small Town
✨ Academic Rivals
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Golden Retriever Billionaire MMC / Country girl FMC
This was my first read from Siena Trap and I loved it. This book is such a cutesy (but also spicy) read. It felt like the perfect way to start off the holidays and get me into the spirit. I also ABSOUTLY loved Mac and it made me want more of him! I did feel like the book was rushed through in the beginning, but everything seemed to come together by the end. I think Mac and Aspen are amazing and It made me feel like I was watching a hallmark movie (but with some extra sugar and spice). Highly recommend this read!
November 10, 2024
This is a small town, fake dating, close proximity, one bed, holiday romance. The book starts off quick and keeps the same pace all the way through! I absolutely loved this book, I would highly recommend this if you’re looking for a sweet, quick, holiday read!
Once I started I could not put it down! I love that this story is told from both perspective because you are quickly able to fall in love with the MMC! The FMC is easy to relate to and the family is so supportive. I loved the small town view. I cannot wait to read the rest of the rustic canyon series!
Once I started I could not put it down! I love that this story is told from both perspective because you are quickly able to fall in love with the MMC! The FMC is easy to relate to and the family is so supportive. I loved the small town view. I cannot wait to read the rest of the rustic canyon series!
November 12, 2024
TROPES-
Rivals to lovers
Billionaire mmc
Country Girl
He's obsessed
Fake dating
Forced proximity
Virgin FMC
Holiday novella
Spicy
✨️This was a short, but not too short that it took from the story, and spicy read about going home for the holidays. The banter had me giggling, and the spice had me sweating. I slowly fell for Mac, and in the end, he had me swooning 😍. If you're looking for a fun and spicy holiday read, look no further!
Thank you to Siena Trap and Happily Booked PR for allowing me to read and review this ARC!
December 13, 2024
This was cuuuute. I don’t mind fake dating, but it’s also not a trope I get excited about as it can often lead to miscommunication. Thankfully, that was mostly avoided here.
This story has goodness like:
✨ tension (ooo the tension was juicy at times)
✨ pining
✨ only one bed/cabin
✨ an adorable small town
✨ cinnamon roll mmc
✨ independent fmc
✨ vulnerability
✨ spice
Overall, I really liked it! There was some cheese (it was Hallmark cheesy, really), and definitely some unrealistic moments, but it’s a good time and a good escape.
This story has goodness like:
✨ tension (ooo the tension was juicy at times)
✨ pining
✨ only one bed/cabin
✨ an adorable small town
✨ cinnamon roll mmc
✨ independent fmc
✨ vulnerability
✨ spice
Overall, I really liked it! There was some cheese (it was Hallmark cheesy, really), and definitely some unrealistic moments, but it’s a good time and a good escape.
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