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Clover Lake #1

Always a Fake Bridesmaid

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The moment Ewan McBride entered my life, my world tilted on its axis.

When we part, I promise him I owe him anything for saving my daughter’s life.

What I didn’t expect?

Being his fake date to a wedding—in two days.

It was only supposed to be a favor, but we can’t deny the attraction.

Only he lives a state away and my life is in Colorado with my daughter and the Montgomerys.

This can only be one night that feels all too real.

Yet I know walking away will be the hardest thing I ever do.

**Always a Fake Bridesmaid is a next generation, single mom, grumpy rancher, fake dating romance set in the Montgomery World & Clover Lake series featuring Livvy & Ewan. Each book can be read as a complete standalone. An HEA is guaranteed!**

Livvy Montgomery is Shep and Shea's daughter from Ink Inspired.

186 pages, Paperback

First published March 17, 2025

91 people are currently reading
10297 people want to read

About the author

Carrie Ann Ryan

264 books6,384 followers
Carrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.

The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:

The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series

Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.

Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.

The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
Profile Image for Danny_reads.
559 reviews321 followers
July 10, 2025
Okay, so I was really excited for this premise, but it did not live up to expectations (especially since the title wasn't relevant at all, and that's what initially caught my interest).

Because of the book's length, everything about this relationship moved way too quickly, and we didn't get to see a lot of it. I lost all interest once the smut started, and was kinda put off by the insta-love.

Honestly, it also didn't help that I read this on a super shitty day. Not for me.
Profile Image for BookSiren Baddie.
242 reviews9 followers
March 20, 2025
Carrie Ann Ryan always comes through, and her stories continue to satisfy my romance palate.
I thought that this was such a cute story. It's a love after heart break, kind of a love at first sight, and a fake date, short read, & it ain't all smut either.
I really liked this story. Arc read for the author. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Michelle the Romance Witch.
2,540 reviews73 followers
March 22, 2025
I always love a good novella, especially one written by one of my favorite authors, because you know that the best of a long story is going to be packed into a quick read so that you get all the lust, heat, love and sweetness without too the story dragging too long. The new Clover Lake series by Carrie Ann Ryan promises to be a whole set of stories to fulfill just that need for us as she lets us get sneak peaks of our favorite Montgomerys and introduces a whole new family at the same time. Livvy
Montgomery meets Ewan McBride by chance when he saves her daughter from disaster and suddenly her life is completely changed. Ewan was instantly drawn to Livvy and when he learns she is a Montgomery, one of the family that he is acquainted with (at least several of the guys) he knows that he has his work cut out for him if he wants a chance to embrace their attraction. But he is need of a date to an upcoming wedding that is putting him right in the crosshairs of some scary ladies and Livvy seems to be the perfect solution. But their attraction is soon all too real and giving into their passion leads to very real feeling. Can Ewan and Livvy find a way through the obstacles in their path and have a future together or will they be forced to walk away from one another once their fake relationship has to end? I loved every second of this story because the connection between Ewan and Livvy was palpable from the very beginning, even when Ewan was simply being a daring rescuer. Livvy was obviously scared to make another mistake jumping in with a man that might break her heart, but when he learns to be open and trust her instincts, she finds that loving Ewan could never be wrong for her or her daughter. Ewan knows that he wants Livvy, but he is smart and brave enough to understand that her fear can never be overcome by forcing her into a relationship she isn’t ready for, giving her the time she needs to come to the conclusion that they are perfect together. It’s obvious I am going to love his family and seeing them each find and fall in love will make for another great series for Carrie Ann and I cannot wait for what is next (Accidental Runaway Groom). Another great beginning to a series we are all going to be anticipating for many months to come.
Profile Image for Claudia Sexton.
95 reviews2 followers
March 17, 2025
Book 1 in Carrie Ann Ryan's new series, Clover Lake

One of the things that I really enjoyed about dipping my toes in this Clover Lake series novella is seeing the interactions of this big, growly (and swoony) cowboy with the dedicated, loving Mom and the cute as a button, sassy little girl. I think my heart grew several sizes to make room for these characters! Super sweet! Also, we have some familiar faces that make an appearance to look forward to! I'm excited to see who's story will be next for Clover Lake!
Profile Image for Dar.
4,573 reviews94 followers
March 5, 2025
I love new series, getting to know new people, and it is even better when you get cross-over, because you get some characters you already know and love as well! This has it all, single mom who has her walls up. Strong, silent, caring, cowboy from another state. A fake date needed, chemistry that cannot be denied, and distances that need to be bridged. These two were just…… comfortable and cozy, and while they had all the heat, they had all the emotions as well <3
Profile Image for Carol.
3,595 reviews3 followers
March 18, 2025
Always a Fake Bridesmaid

What an amazing story about a single mom, and a man who saves her daughter from a possible horrible accident. Livvy and Ewan attend his friends wedding together to save Ewan from some unwanted bridesmaids attention. Their attraction is more than each is admitting. The circumstances, attraction, feelings are not to be avoided. The universe has taken them under its wings and love ❤️ will keep them along with her amazing daughter. Beautiful story.
Profile Image for Susan.
557 reviews5 followers
March 19, 2025
Livvy is enjoying a family day in the park when crazy circumstances have her meeting Ewan. The attraction is instantaneous with them, but there’s so much to consider. First priority is her daughter. Secondly, they live in different states. Ultimately these two have some obstacles work through because they both deserve happiness.
Profile Image for Kay.
85 reviews4 followers
March 22, 2025
This was a very cute and short read. I enjoyed it so much. The relationship between Ewan and Livvy was so adorable. The way Ewan and Amelia’s father daughter relationship developed was so beautiful.

I especially enjoyed enjoyed the Montgomerys together. It was beautiful and chaotic seeing everyone there!

Thank you to @carrieann for choosing me ti be part of your content team and to review this book!!

Rating
🌶🌶
264 reviews
March 18, 2025
This is a feel good story with lots of emotion. Livvy is a doting sometimes overprotective mother who loves her daughter to pieces. She has a great family however is constantly worried that the man who didn’t want Amelia will show back up and threaten her world. She meets Ewan when he saves Amelia from an unexpected accident. He has met some of the Montgomery’s but when he meets Livvy sparks fly. She helps him out of an uncomfortable situation by being his fake date and not only are there sparks but fireworks. As they spend time together and feelings build she gets unexpected news and again her world turns on its axis. When she realizes that Ewan is her and Amelia’s future she goes after what she wants.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,907 reviews213 followers
March 17, 2025




Universal



From the moment Livvy and Ewan see each other, a spark is ignited. But it's when he saves her daughter that the real connection is formed, and she tells him she owes him, literally. When he needs a fake date to his friend's wedding, he calls in the favor, and the connection deepens. She hasn't been one to trust since her ex, but everything in her (and her friends and family) is telling her to put herself out there again. But how can people who live different lives in different places, make a fake date turn into a real connection?



Ewan may be a grumpy cowboy, but he has good reason. He has some obnoxious bridesmaids hitting on him at the events leading up to his friend's wedding, and it's only because they look at him and see his bank account and his land. He isn't a social person at best, and these events are really trying his patience because these women will not leave him alone. And after he saves an innocent child from a tragedy, they start in on her mother, and that's unacceptable. He knew from the moment he saw Livvy, then saved her daughter, that he had to have her in his life, and asking her to be his fake date as a buffer from these women is his way in. But how can two people with separate lives make a relationship work?



The Montgomerys are in full force here, offering up love, support and laughs to one of their own, and welcoming someone new into their fold. Livvy and Ewan's story, though short, is layered and complete. Their chemistry is smokin' hot, and I fell in love with them and adorable Amelia. I'm already impatient for more Montgomerys and more Clover Lake love now that I've gotten a glimpse with Amelia, Ewan and Livvy.



ARC provided by the author for an honest review.

Review: Live Through Books Blog.

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Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,591 reviews51 followers
March 9, 2025
I recently had the absolute pleasure of reading Always a Fake Bridesmaid, the first installment in Carrie Ann Ryan's Clover Lake series. This captivating romance combines elements of fake dating, single parenthood, and a gruff but lovable rancher, all set against the charming backdrop of a small town.

The chemistry between the leads was electrifying, with a strong focus on character development that made them both relatable and endearing. The grumpy rancher trope was expertly woven into the narrative, adding a delightful layer of complexity to Ewan's character. The emotional journey of the characters was incredibly compelling, with themes of love, sacrifice, and personal growth. The way they navigated their pasts and present challenges was both heartfelt and engaging.

The use of the fake dating trope was cleverly integrated into the story, and the small-town setting provided a warm and inviting backdrop for the romance. The inclusion of a single mom as the protagonist added depth to the narrative, making it relatable and authentic.

Carrie Ann Ryan's ability to craft characters that feel real and authentic is truly remarkable. The way she explores their vulnerabilities and strengths made me deeply invested in their journey. The emotional connection between the characters was palpable, and the way they supported each other through their struggles was beautifully portrayed. This made the romance feel genuine and satisfying.

The storyline was engaging from start to finish, with a perfect balance of humor, angst, and heartfelt moments. The pacing was well-balanced, keeping me hooked until the very end.

Overall, Always a Fake Bridesmaid is a masterfully crafted romance that exceeded my expectations in every way. With its lovable characters, engaging storyline, and emotional depth, it's a must-read for fans of fake dating and small-town romances. Carrie Ann Ryan's storytelling continues to captivate, and I eagerly look forward to more from this series. If you're in the mood for a heartfelt, feel-good romance with a strong focus on character development, Always a Fake Bridesmaid is an absolute must-read.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
1,052 reviews34 followers
March 15, 2025
Book Review: Always A Fake Bridesmaid
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor

Carrie Ann Ryan delivers another heartwarming and emotional romance with Always a Fake Bridesmaid. This next-generation love story brings together Livvy Montgomery, a single mom devoted to her daughter, and Ewan McBride, a grumpy but irresistible rancher who unexpectedly turns her world upside down.

From the moment Ewan saves Livvy’s daughter, the connection between them is undeniable. What starts as a simple favor—being his fake date to a wedding—quickly turns into something much more. Their chemistry is electric, and watching them navigate their growing feelings despite the distance and their different lives made for a compelling read.

The fake dating trope is executed flawlessly, bringing both humor and emotional depth to the story. Ewan’s gruff exterior hides a heart of gold, and his dynamic with Livvy is both swoon-worthy and deeply emotional. The small-town setting adds to the charm, making their love story feel cozy yet powerful.

Carrie Ann Ryan excels at writing characters who feel real and layered. Livvy’s struggles as a single mom and Ewan’s reluctance to open his heart create a romance filled with longing, sacrifice, and ultimately, love. Their journey is filled with tension, laughter, and heartfelt moments that kept me hooked from start to finish.

If you love fake dating, small-town romance, and a protective, broody hero who falls hard, Always a Fake Bridesmaid is a must-read. Ryan continues to craft stories that are equal parts emotional and swoon-worthy, and I can’t wait for what’s next in the Montgomery World & Clover Lake series!

#AlwaysAFakeBridesmaid #CarrieAnnRyan #FakeDatingRomance #SmallTownRomance #SingleMomRomance #GrumpySunshine #MustRead #BookLovers #SlowBurn #RomanceReaders #FeelGoodRomance #MontgomeryWorld #CloverLakeSeries #readers #read #ReadingCommunity #books #bookstagram #readreadread #booksofinstagram #readersgonnaread #bookstagrammer #booksbooksbooks #bookshelf #readmorebooks
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,641 reviews27 followers
March 16, 2025
4.5 stars

Livvy and Ewan meet under intense circumstances, when Ewan saves Livvy’s daughter from tragedy. When they part ways after that first meeting, neither thinks they will cross paths again. But as luck would have it they have some mutual acquaintances and their paths cross a few times over the course of a quick weekend. When Ewan needs a fake date to the wedding he is attending, Livvy figures it’s the least she can do to repay him for saving her daughter.

Their weekend together was more than they were bargaining for and they quickly find themselves wanting more time together, but distance and family obligations stand in the way if they are going to try anything.

This is a quick read, the first in a series of novellas that I can’t wait to dive into again! Livvy and Ewan are perfect together and I love how he interacts with her daughter from the very beginning. They may not come from the same worlds, but it quickly becomes clear that they fit.

I loved the whole crew surrounding them too (except for a few bridesmaids we aren’t supposed to be rooting for). Because it is such a quick read, there isn’t a lot of time for side characters, but those we meet are a great support and I can’t wait to see more from this series!

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Profile Image for Jessica Matts.
152 reviews11 followers
March 15, 2025
What do you get when you mix the bride’s maids that want the pre-wedding fun in Denver with a chance encounter with some Montgomerys?

The premise of another ‘spin-off’ series by Carrie Ann Ryan.

Always a Fake Bridesmaid is an novella…that introduces us to Clover Lake, Wyoming & the McBride family.

Wondering how an chance encounter with the Montgomerys lands us in Clover Lake, Wyoming with a family that we (currently) never heard of? Well…Ewan McBride happened to be in the right place at the right time.

Ewan is the best man…and trying to ‘avoid’ the bridesmaids…that seem to be attracted to his family ranch size & his bank account.

While in Denver with the wedding party…he manages to save Livvy Montgomery’s daughter…and she told him that she ‘owed’ him for that…never expecting to be asked to be his fake date to his best friend’s wedding (the one where he’s the best man).

There are shenanigans…a few upset members of the bridal party…and of course Montgomerys butting into each other’s lives.

I loved the novella…especially how Carrie Ann managed to hook my interest in Ewan’s family…without them really being on page. I mean—who doesn’t love another large family that seems to be in each other’s business?

I can’t wait to get back to Clover Lake & meet the rest of the McBride family…and to see how often an Montgomery comes north to visit…and will we end up with an Montgomery cowboy?

Always a Fake Bridesmaid will be available to purchase on March 17…so run & pre-order now. Then take a Monday for yourself & curl up with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate; a cozy blanket & chair, and enjoy a brief visit with the Montgomerys & McBrides.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
1,918 reviews18 followers
March 18, 2025
I loved this first book in the brand-new Clover Lake series by the wonderfully talented Carrie Ann Ryan. Honestly, she is at the top of my must-read list across the whole romance genre. I love her characters, the banter, the family closeness...it's all a joy to read.
This lovely novella (what exactly is the min/max length of a novella?) features Livvy Montgomery, the child of Shep and Shea from the original Montgomery Ink series, as well as a bit of crossover with the MI Legacy series. From what I've read, Clover Lake will be comprised of all novella-length read, very cool IMHO!
Always a Fake Bridesmaid also bring us to a gruff and broody cowboy from Wyoming, Ewan McBride. He's in the right place at the right time, and saves Livvy's daughter, Amelia, from a serious accident. Livvy's gratitude leads Ewan to ask her to be his date to a wedding back home, and the rest is romantic goodness!
We get a peek at Ewan's life and some of the people in Clover Lake, as well as a few Montgomery's ( a couple who know Ewan's friend) like her cousin Aria (who's book I am salivating for!!), but it's not long enough for a full Montgomery invasion, lol. And I'm okay with that, surprisingly.
If the rest of this series is as good as this one, I'll be impatiently waiting for each and every one of these books, too.
Profile Image for Kara Quade.
623 reviews4 followers
March 19, 2025
Livvy Montgomery is a single mother who runs her own editing business. Ewan McBride is a cowboy from Wyoming who is in Colorado attending his friend's pre-wedding festivities. Livvy is at a park with her family when her daughter, Amelia, is saved from a tragic accident by Ewan. Ewan and Livvy are attracted to each other and can't stop thinking about each other. Wanting to block an overly aggressive bridesmaid and wanting to get to know Livvy better, Ewan asks Livvy to be his date to his friend's wedding. Will Livvy stand up for the bride when drama rocks the wedding party? As Ewan and Livvy spend time together, will they give into their attraction for one another? Will Ewan be able to let Livvy leave without him and go back to Colorado without him? Will Ewan make sacrifices to be with Livvy and Amelia? How will Livvy react when she learns of her ex's death? Is Livvy shocked when Ewan tells her he was willing to stay in Colorado for her and Amelia before he leaves to go home? Will Livvy realize her and Amelia's home and future is with Ewan in Wyoming? I loved Always a Fake Bridesmaid by Carrie Ann Ryan! This is a fantastic start to the Clover Lake series. Ewan and Livvy are a great couple with flaming hot chemistry. I would definitely recommend getting Always a Fake Bridesmaid. I received an ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Profile Image for Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads.
2,306 reviews20 followers
March 7, 2025
I love whenever Carrie Ann Ryan starts a new series, we get a novella to meet the characters. “Always a Fake Bridesmaid” is a romantic, fun and steamy fake dating novella that was a fun start to the series.

Livvy Montgomery is a single mom who has been raising her daughter by herself with the help of her family. While at the park one day, her daughter missteps and almost gets into an accident but Ewan McBride was there to save the day. She is forever grateful and when he asks her to be his fake date to a wedding to get a bridesmaid to lay off of him, she can’t help but say yes. But it’s very apparent from the start that these two have a chemistry.

This was such a fun and swoony novella to introduce us to the McBrides. And I love that there is a Montgomery crossover included. Livvy is an amazing mom and she always puts her daughter first. But when she agreed to go to the wedding, I loved that for her so much. She deserved to get away and have a good time. Ewan McBride has all the swoon and is such a good guy. He stepped without hesitation to save Ameila. Their connection was instant and grew as they spent time together. Ewan even had a special bond with Ameila which was so sweet. I cannot wait to start this series when it’s released.
Profile Image for ZETTER.
1,158 reviews23 followers
March 9, 2025
A New Hope!!!

Ewan McBride, an acquaintance of Crew and Lexington's who'd saved Livvy Montgomery's daughter, Amelia. He was fascinated by Livvy from the moment he laid eyes on her.

Livvy Montgomery, Shep and Shea's ( INK INSPIRED ) daughter whom we've met in the MONTGOMERY INK LEGACY series. She was grateful to Ewan McBride for his help. Him saving her daughter ment a lot to her. When they parted ways she made him a promise, that if he'd ever needed something she would be there for him. She just never expected for that favor to come so soon.

Ewan needed a date to attend a his best-friend, Jackson's wedding. So he asked Livvy to be his fake date but what neither one of them expected was for things to feel real. As they got to know each other, they realized that they both wanted more. Thus they took a leap of faith.

ALWAYS A FAKE BRIDESMAID is the second novella in Carrie Ann Ryan's the MONTGOMERY INK LEGACY series and the first book in her CLOVER LAKE series. It was fast-paced, beautiful and a fantastic read. Carrie Ann Ryan did an outstanding job. I'm looking forward to what comes next! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

****I received this book, without any obligation to review.****
Profile Image for Rebmay.
2,865 reviews52 followers
March 16, 2025
There are so many things to like about this book. First, it is another wonderful story about a member of the close knit Montgomery clan and so many familiar characters from past books make an appearance. Next, the hero, Ewan, is a cinnamon role cowboy with a heart of gold who is also a master of dirty talk and so much more. He never could have dreamed that rescuing a little girl from harm would lead him to the love of his life. The heroine, Livvy, is a doting single mom with a strong independent streak, mile high guards around her heart and a family that is always there to offer unconditional love and support. Her daughter is her whole world. She never would have guessed that when Ewan rescued her daughter, he would also be the one to claim her heart and restore her faith in love. Then, there is sweet little Amelia, Livvy’s adorable four year old daughter who wins hearts with her smiles, laughter and eyes that match her mother’s. She is a scene stealer and a matchmaker in the making. No one can resist her. Together, Livvy and Ewan face a few hurdles and emotional challenges before they claim their own happily ever after

I wholeheartedly and happily recommend this fantastic book.

941 reviews3 followers
March 18, 2025
Beautiful!

I thought this was a beautiful story,Liviy was a young mother with a four year little girl just living,she lived for her daughter, no time for nothing else,she was man shy because of Amelia 's father years earlier. But she decided to go to a wedding. She meant the man that save her daughter in the park.Ewan falls for Liviy and her daughter right away but he lives in one state and she in another.But first he asks her to be a fake date for the wedding ,then before the wedding there is a big blow up and the bride needs a fake bridemaid.Ewan and Liviy have some hurdles to get over or thru,mostly the distance but they work on it and find a very happy ending! This story seem short to me but it was pack full,except did I miss where or what Amelia 's die of? It just said that he had pass six months or years,can't remember, but it did say when Liviy became pregnant he just took off,and didn't want anything to do with her or Amelia, you think after four years,the father could left a note or something for his daughter or Liviy, because Liviy always was worry that he would come and take her away,she wouldn't be so on edge and maybe could of live her life with out fear of Amelia of taken!
Profile Image for Lynn_G.
1,140 reviews27 followers
March 6, 2025
Short and sweet, with a touch of heat. Single mom Livvy has been raising her daughter solo since the baby daddy ghosted her upon learning she was pregnant. Surrounded by the loving Montgomerys, including her parents Shep and Shea, she’s never wanted more than to manage her literary work while raising her little girl. Until a near disaster puts her in the path of a hunky, heroic rancher who lives a day’s drive away.

From the moment Ewan spied the vibrant blonde doting upon her mini me at the park where he’d been supporting his best friend on the weeklong Denver getaway with the wedding party, he’d wanted to come up with a reason to approach her. When he sees her little girl In harm’s way, he rushes to help, earning her gratitude. After introductions are made, Ewan persuades Livvy to accompany him back to Wyoming as his plus one.

Having been badly burned by her daughter’s father, can Livvy take a chance that she and Ewan may have something more than a fake date?

I was fortunate to have received an advance reader copy from team Carrie Ann Ryan, and I’m happy to share my honest impressions.
Profile Image for Bethany.
33 reviews
March 16, 2025
Always a Fake Bridesmaid is a next generation Montgomery book that starts a whole new series. Livvy, who is Shea and Shep's daughter from way back in Ink Inspired at the beginning of the Montgomery saga. Livvy is now all grown up with a daughter of her own that she is raising as a single parent with the help of her family.
While out with her family at a park, Livvy's daughter gets close to traffic only to be rescued by Ewan. She tells him she owes him one, but really they never expect to see each other again. Only they do and Ewan wants to cash in on that favor and invites her to be his date to a wedding. Unfortunately it is a whole state away and even though there is a growing attraction there, Livvy doesn't want to move away from her family.
This book is a quick read and I finished it in a day. I couldn't put it down. I had to see how their romance played out. AFB is a great start to a new series and I was happy to see Livvy as an adult because I don't think I have see much of her since the beginning. There are several characters that I can see having their own story from here and I look forward to seeing where Carrie Ann takes us.
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
2,089 reviews67 followers
March 17, 2025
You will never be disappointed with a book by Ms. Ryan. She delivers a storyline of a family, finding love, and opening your heart with Always a Fake Bridesmaid. Although this book is a novella, as I was reading it, there was so much between the pages that it felt like a full story. The emotions, banter, and a little bit of a cowboy dirty talker had me smiling at the turn of every page. If this book is any indication of how her new series, Clover Lake, is going to be, then you do not want to miss it.
Livvy, a strong and independent single mother who has kept her heart guarded since the man who she thought loved her walked out as soon as she told him she was pregnant. Her daughter, Amelia. steals the show when she is in the scenes. Then there is the cowboy she was not expecting to walk into her life, Ewan. There is an instant attraction on both sides but once again Livvy has walls around her heart. Time together sees the pages catching on fire and the walls coming down. Maybe being a fake bridesmaid was the best thing that could've happened to Livvy.
Why not grab this beautifully written and gripping love story that will have you smiling from ear to ear.
758 reviews2 followers
March 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and how could you not fall in love with Ewan, Livvy and of course Amelia. These two definitely met under what could have been tragic circumstances but Ewan stepped in and saved the day and who knew his good deed would lead to more than he and Livvy expected. From these two just knowing each other they got pretty close pretty fast, and Livvy shared a lot of her life with him. I have to say as I was reading, I kept thinking that a couple of things were going to happen but I’m so glad that they didn’t. For a novella, we found out a huge piece of news about Livvy’s ex and it was sad for all involved. I’m definitely intrigued by knowing more about Ewan and his family and I feel like there is so much more story there for him and the rest of the McBride’s and what a great story to start this Clover Lake series with. I wasn’t sure how this book would end but I loved how Livvy and Amelia decided to go for it and the rest is history as they say. My favorite line from this story is, ‘fate has a silly way of changing things.’ Excited for more of the McBride’s and this upcoming series. Great book!
Profile Image for Deana-Coffee, Books, Life Blog.
805 reviews22 followers
April 3, 2025
Carrie Ann Ryan introduces us to her new Clover Lake series with a bit of a Montgomery crossover in Always a Fake Bridesmaid.

Livvy Montgomery is an amazing woman. Being a single mom sometimes makes you a little more overprotective than not. She’s more than understandable, considering some of the things she’s been through. She is Montgomery and therefore has the loving and doting support of her. While at a picnic with her family Livvy gets her world rocked in more ways than one. A handsome cowboy save the day by saving her daughter from what could’ve been a very potentially bad accident and made her breath catch in a way that it hasn’t been quite a while.

Ewan McBride is a grumpy cowboy, who is quite the looker. Well attending events for a friend‘s wedding. Ewan finds himself in the right place at the right time for a couple of reasons. He saves a little girl from what could have been something horrible. He also eyes on a woman that made the sparks fly. That woman just happened to be the little girl's mom. With a promise to return the favor of saving her little girl. Ewan thumbs up with the idea of having one be his fake day for the wedding. What neither of them knew was what could truly become once the façade started.

Carrie Ann Ryan does an amazing job introducing us to her new series Clover Lake with a Montgomery crossover story Always a Fake Bridesmaid. Sparks fly at first meet for Livvy and Ewan. The story may be short, but it is definitely sweet, emotional and a great introduction to a new cast of characters for us to fall in love with.
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729 reviews11 followers
March 12, 2025
Short Heartwarming Romance
Wow! Carrie Ann Ryan has done it again with Book 1 of her new series. Livvy Montgomery does not date. She was heartbroken five years ago when her ex-boyfriend deserted her after finding out she was pregnant. Then she had no time to date between her job, daughter and helping her family. Plus, she is afraid one day it will be her ex again and she will realize her is terrible at it. She has no trust left in her which makes it ridiculous that something immediately clicked inside her with Ewan McBride. Something clicked with Ewan too. He wants to know everything about her and have more than one night to do it. This is a well written fake date romance that pulled at my heartstrings. There is chemistry, fun banter, large loving families, emotion, personal struggles, surprises and a well deserved happy-ever-after. I love how all the generations of Montgomerys keep turn up in each of Carrie’s books with crossovers between her different series as well. Keep them coming Carrie.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
3,278 reviews62 followers
March 17, 2025
Carrie Ann Ryan never fails to captivate, whether she’s delivering an emotional full-length novel or a short, swoon-worthy novella. Always a Fake Bridesmaid is no exception—it’s a heart-stopping, next-generation romance that beautifully bridges the Montgomery World and launches the Clover Lake series in unforgettable fashion.

Meet Livvy Montgomery—a fierce, independent single mom who isn’t looking for love but suddenly finds herself tangled in a fake-dating arrangement she never expected. Enter Ewan—a grumpy, brooding rancher who needs a date, but the last thing he plans on is Livvy turning his world upside down. From their unexpected meeting to the sizzling tension between them, this novella delivers all the feels.

With undeniable chemistry, heartfelt emotion, and just the right amount of Montgomery family magic, Always a Fake Bridesmaid sets the stage for the Clover Lake series beautifully. Watching Ewan’s hardened exterior soften for Livvy, and seeing her take a chance on something new, makes for an irresistible, page-turning romance.

If you love small-town charm, fake dating with sparks flying, and a cowboy hero who never stood a chance, this is a must-read. Carrie Ann Ryan seamlessly weaves together two beloved worlds, ensuring Clover Lake starts with all the passion and heart we’ve come to love!
Profile Image for Heather M Jones-Lancto.
279 reviews2 followers
March 17, 2025
Carrie Ann Ryan is introducing us to a whole new family of hot men. And lucky me, they are cowboys! 'Always a Fake Bridesmaid is a short, sweet, fun, and steamy introduction to the McBride family and their small town.

Livvy Montgomery is one of the many Montgomery cousins. After graduating college she found herself pregnant and alone. The father of her baby wanted nothing to do with their child and nothing to do with her. So, she started her own business and began raising their daughter alone. Four years later, a day in the park almost leads to a tragic accident, but the handsome hero, Ewan McBride, sweeps in to save the day.

While in Colorado enjoying pre-wedding festivities, Ewan had a chance encounter with a beautiful woman and her outgoing daughter; both of whom took his breath away. After running into her a second time, Ewan decides to take a leap and invite her to be his plus-one for the wedding. Little did Livvy and Ewan know that their weekend fling would turn into so much more!

I love that we have already been introduced to the rest of the McBride family and am really excited to read each of their stories! Cowboy romance is most certainly one of my most favorite tropes.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Nadine Bookaholic.
3,732 reviews525 followers
March 17, 2025
What a great start to the Clover Lake Series. I’m excited to see what comes next.

In this first introduction to Clover Lake, we are gifted a Hot Quck read where Ewan McBride and some friends visit Colorado for Pre-Wedding festivities. There, he meets a very lovely single mother.

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewAaFB

always a fake bridesmaid by carrie ann ryan

Nadine's Obsessed with Books **I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
127 reviews
March 12, 2025
Ewan McBride is a grumpy cowboy who is the best man for his best friend's wedding. He is at the right place at the right time to save Livvy's daughter, Amelia from getting into an accident. He is instantly attracted to Livvy but he is only in Colorado for the wedding festivities so he knows nothing will come out of getting to know her.

Livvy Montgomery is a single mom who gave up on love when the father of her child left her pregnant and alone. Now Livvy is used to taking care of her daughter and making her life all about work and Amelia. Ewan knows a relationship will go no where and he can't help asking her to be his fake date at his friend's wedding. The bridesmaids are making it their goal to hook up with him.

This is such a sweet and angsty story. Loved it, no I can't wait to read about Ewan's brothers!

I received this advance copy from BookFunnel for my honest opinion.
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