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Sisters and Sweethearts #2
Faking It With My Best Friend
The two of us have been best friends forever. But one of us is faking it.
Ryn
Gabe and I are the dynamic duo of Hunter’s Creek, the small town in Washington where we live. As best friends, our bond is as tight as a bungee cord. But even though he’s loyal, sweet, and totally hot in that flannel-wearing lumberjack way of his, he’s always stayed securely in the “friend zone”—despite the fact I was head-over-heals in love with him in high school.
Just as I’m complaining that nothing ever happens here, Hollywood comes to town bringing its over-the-top movie madness energy. Along for the ride is Hollywood hottie Joe Turner who turns my head in a big way.
Gabe does not seem pleased.
Gabe
Do you know what really gets under my skin? No good, full-of-themselves Hollywood guys named Joe Turner who hit on my best friend. Doesn’t Ryn know that she deserves so much better than that guy? He’ll use her up and spit her out when he leaves town.
Yet, no matter what I say, she goes for him anyway. And I’m not happy about it.
Who am I kidding? I hate it.
What’s more, the Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee, aka a bunch of women with nothing better to do, have been trying to matchmake Ryn and me forever. They seem to think that the simple fact we’re both single means we’re perfect for each other. Listen up, it takes more to fall in love than to think your best friend is the most beautiful, clever, kind-hearted, and funny woman you’ve ever met.
Wait.
Could they be right?
Faking It With My Best Friend is a best friends-to-lovers romance set in the small town of Hunter's Creek, Washington. It's the second book in the Second Chance Café series. Each book follows a different sister's love story and can be read as a standalone novel or as part of a series.
Ryn
Gabe and I are the dynamic duo of Hunter’s Creek, the small town in Washington where we live. As best friends, our bond is as tight as a bungee cord. But even though he’s loyal, sweet, and totally hot in that flannel-wearing lumberjack way of his, he’s always stayed securely in the “friend zone”—despite the fact I was head-over-heals in love with him in high school.
Just as I’m complaining that nothing ever happens here, Hollywood comes to town bringing its over-the-top movie madness energy. Along for the ride is Hollywood hottie Joe Turner who turns my head in a big way.
Gabe does not seem pleased.
Gabe
Do you know what really gets under my skin? No good, full-of-themselves Hollywood guys named Joe Turner who hit on my best friend. Doesn’t Ryn know that she deserves so much better than that guy? He’ll use her up and spit her out when he leaves town.
Yet, no matter what I say, she goes for him anyway. And I’m not happy about it.
Who am I kidding? I hate it.
What’s more, the Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee, aka a bunch of women with nothing better to do, have been trying to matchmake Ryn and me forever. They seem to think that the simple fact we’re both single means we’re perfect for each other. Listen up, it takes more to fall in love than to think your best friend is the most beautiful, clever, kind-hearted, and funny woman you’ve ever met.
Wait.
Could they be right?
Faking It With My Best Friend is a best friends-to-lovers romance set in the small town of Hunter's Creek, Washington. It's the second book in the Second Chance Café series. Each book follows a different sister's love story and can be read as a standalone novel or as part of a series.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2023
330 people are currently reading
1002 people want to read
About the author
Kate O'Keeffe
66 books851 followersKate O'Keeffe is a USA TODAY bestselling and award-winning author who writes exactly what she loves to read: laugh-out-loud romantic comedies with swoon-worthy heroes and gorgeous feel-good happily ever afters. She lives and loves in beautiful Hawke's Bay, New Zealand with her family and two scruffy but loveable dogs.
When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries around the globe (back when we used to be able to do that), and eating chocolate. A lot of it.
Get a free book when you sign up to Kate's newsletter at kateokeeffe.com.
When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries around the globe (back when we used to be able to do that), and eating chocolate. A lot of it.
Get a free book when you sign up to Kate's newsletter at kateokeeffe.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
June 12, 2023
Ryn and Gabe have been best friends since they were 7. They have been through a lot together and everyone can see they belong together, except them.
I felt like I was reading 2 different stories and the whole movie filming in the town aspect could have been removed. I didn't feel like it had an impact on realization. It was just Ryn being treated badly by a guy and realizing she loves to do makeup?
I didn't really feel the sparks between Ryn and Gabe. I actually felt more between Gabe and Nat.
A small town will always make me smile. Meddling old ladies will always make me laugh. But a lot of this story was exhausting.
I was provided an ARC for my honest review.
I felt like I was reading 2 different stories and the whole movie filming in the town aspect could have been removed. I didn't feel like it had an impact on realization. It was just Ryn being treated badly by a guy and realizing she loves to do makeup?
I didn't really feel the sparks between Ryn and Gabe. I actually felt more between Gabe and Nat.
A small town will always make me smile. Meddling old ladies will always make me laugh. But a lot of this story was exhausting.
I was provided an ARC for my honest review.
June 4, 2023
I’m pretty new to books by Kate O’Keefe, but I can say that I’m a fan of her books!!
Faking it With My Best Friend is such a cute friends to more storyline! Ryan she Gabe have been best friends forever, but are both secretly wanting more! They did share a kiss back in high school, but it’s been nothing but friendship since then—at least not that either of them admit to.
I loved cute Ryn and her easy going personality and how much she was willing to give up for best friend. Gabe was the perfect guy: good looking and a total sweetheart who wools so whatever it took to make Ryn happy!
Faking it With My Best Friend is such a cute friends to more storyline! Ryan she Gabe have been best friends forever, but are both secretly wanting more! They did share a kiss back in high school, but it’s been nothing but friendship since then—at least not that either of them admit to.
I loved cute Ryn and her easy going personality and how much she was willing to give up for best friend. Gabe was the perfect guy: good looking and a total sweetheart who wools so whatever it took to make Ryn happy!
June 5, 2023
Faking It With My Best Friend by Kate O'Keeffe was such a fun read. It only took me a day to read it. This is the second book in the Second Chance Cafe series. I absolutely love the characters Ryn and Gabe. A couple of months ago I read the first book featuring Ryns big sister Harper and Christopher and fell in love with Kate's closed-door rom-com books. I was so glad to find out more about Ryn and Gabe. Ryn and Gabe have been friends for forever but everyone in the small town of Hunters Creek feels they should be together. This book features friends to lover troupe. I cannot wait for the third book which features the third Cole sister. I cannot wait to go back to Hunters Creek. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book for my honest opinion. Thank you for another fun book, Kate.
January 24, 2024
This was cute! Faking it With My Best Friend is the second book in Kate O’Keeffe’s Second Chance Cafe. As per the title it is a friends to lovers read. I was excited to see how Gabe and Ryn were going to end up together.
Gabe and Ryn were cute together. It was definitely fun to read about them especially as they tried to convince everyone around them that they were just friends. I love how deeply they cared about each other and how they wanted the other to be happy. They were so sweet together and they truly knew each other.
Both Ryn and Gabe had some things to work through as they tried to figure out life and relationships. Ryn had to figure out what she wanted to do with her future and she had to learn to truly see Gabe. Gabe had to learn to let go of his past, and reach for his dreams. His upbringing and family had scared him a little but Ryn had a way of helping him.
This was a lovely book. It did take me a while to get into the story but I was soon drawn in by the character. I am also super excited for the next book and I can’t wait to read Marlowe’s book! Faking it With My Best Friend is a clean romantic comedy.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Gabe and Ryn were cute together. It was definitely fun to read about them especially as they tried to convince everyone around them that they were just friends. I love how deeply they cared about each other and how they wanted the other to be happy. They were so sweet together and they truly knew each other.
Both Ryn and Gabe had some things to work through as they tried to figure out life and relationships. Ryn had to figure out what she wanted to do with her future and she had to learn to truly see Gabe. Gabe had to learn to let go of his past, and reach for his dreams. His upbringing and family had scared him a little but Ryn had a way of helping him.
This was a lovely book. It did take me a while to get into the story but I was soon drawn in by the character. I am also super excited for the next book and I can’t wait to read Marlowe’s book! Faking it With My Best Friend is a clean romantic comedy.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
August 21, 2023
Faking it with my Best Friend
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Kate O’Keeffe
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from Kate O’Keeffe and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: The two of us have been best friends forever. But it turns out, one of us is a phony. Gabe and I are the dynamic duo of Hunter’s Creek and have been ever since we were kids. My bestie is not only sweet and loyal, but he’s totally hot in that flannel-wearing lumberjack way of his. Not that I see him like that. Well, not since we kissed that one time back in high school. Thank goodness we have each other, because life in a small town can bore the socks right off you. At least that was true until Hollywood showed up, bringing along hottie Joe Turner. Joe has my head turning so swiftly, I might just earn a degree in neck gymnastics. But here’s the Gabe isn't exactly Joe's number one fan, and when your bestie doesn’t like your romantic interest, it sure puts a dent in things. As for the Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee, a squad of women with such fine-tuned meddling ways to make a soap opera jealous, they're convinced Gabe's harboring a secret crush on me. Which is crazy. Everyone knows we're just friends. Aren’t we?
My Thoughts: This is book no. two in the Second Chance Cafe series. I have read the first one, as well as this one. However, this one can be read as a standalone and you would no problem following along. O’Keeffe is one of my favorite indie authors. Gabe and Ryn have been best friends forever, while keeping one another in the friend zone, even if they have both been secretly pining over the other for years. Hollywood shows up bringing a little competition coupled with Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee, brings a sweet closed door romance that was a lot of fun to read. The book follows the tropes of best friend’s brother, small town romance, and friends to lovers.
The story is narrated in a dual narration by Ryn and Gabe, in their perspectives, which I loved. Ryn has so much personality, is outgoing, while struggling to figure out what her thing is. Gabe is charming, brooding, compassionate, and loyal. Gabe and Ryn were adorable together and I was rooting the whole time for them to just take the risk, no risk means no reward, however big risk (on love) could mean big reward. The author does an amazing job at creating Hunter’s Creek, it definitely feels like a town I would love to visit, very detailed. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, definitely a lot of chemistry, and intriguing. The author’s writing style was clean, crisp, complex, swoony, and engaging.
This story just makes you feel good, a heartwarming tale about two best friends who destined to be together. I love O’Keeffe’s storytelling ability. I highly recommend this one and the previous one. The third sister, Marlowe’s story will be out November of this year, and I cannot wait (“Faking it with the Guy Next Door”).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Kate O’Keeffe
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from Kate O’Keeffe and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: The two of us have been best friends forever. But it turns out, one of us is a phony. Gabe and I are the dynamic duo of Hunter’s Creek and have been ever since we were kids. My bestie is not only sweet and loyal, but he’s totally hot in that flannel-wearing lumberjack way of his. Not that I see him like that. Well, not since we kissed that one time back in high school. Thank goodness we have each other, because life in a small town can bore the socks right off you. At least that was true until Hollywood showed up, bringing along hottie Joe Turner. Joe has my head turning so swiftly, I might just earn a degree in neck gymnastics. But here’s the Gabe isn't exactly Joe's number one fan, and when your bestie doesn’t like your romantic interest, it sure puts a dent in things. As for the Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee, a squad of women with such fine-tuned meddling ways to make a soap opera jealous, they're convinced Gabe's harboring a secret crush on me. Which is crazy. Everyone knows we're just friends. Aren’t we?
My Thoughts: This is book no. two in the Second Chance Cafe series. I have read the first one, as well as this one. However, this one can be read as a standalone and you would no problem following along. O’Keeffe is one of my favorite indie authors. Gabe and Ryn have been best friends forever, while keeping one another in the friend zone, even if they have both been secretly pining over the other for years. Hollywood shows up bringing a little competition coupled with Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee, brings a sweet closed door romance that was a lot of fun to read. The book follows the tropes of best friend’s brother, small town romance, and friends to lovers.
The story is narrated in a dual narration by Ryn and Gabe, in their perspectives, which I loved. Ryn has so much personality, is outgoing, while struggling to figure out what her thing is. Gabe is charming, brooding, compassionate, and loyal. Gabe and Ryn were adorable together and I was rooting the whole time for them to just take the risk, no risk means no reward, however big risk (on love) could mean big reward. The author does an amazing job at creating Hunter’s Creek, it definitely feels like a town I would love to visit, very detailed. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, definitely a lot of chemistry, and intriguing. The author’s writing style was clean, crisp, complex, swoony, and engaging.
This story just makes you feel good, a heartwarming tale about two best friends who destined to be together. I love O’Keeffe’s storytelling ability. I highly recommend this one and the previous one. The third sister, Marlowe’s story will be out November of this year, and I cannot wait (“Faking it with the Guy Next Door”).
June 14, 2023
Gabe and Ryn are best friends who have known each other forever. Despite their small town trying to continuously matchmake the two, they vow they're only friends. When a Hollywood crew heads to town to film a movie (the biggest thing to ever happen in Hunter's Creek!), one of the movie staff catches Ryn's eye. As they start dating, it becomes apparent Gabe isn't too pleased.
Who doesn't love a good friends to lovers story, am I right? There's something so feel good about two people finally realizing how they feel and then the sweetness of when they get together just makes you smile. I adored Gabe and Ryn. Their friendship was so genuine and they made the cutest couple together. I loved hearing both their POV's in this story - hearing the male side isn't something you always get and I always appreciate knowing what they're thinking.
If you love clean, small town feel good romcom's, this book has to be one you get your hands on. It releases 15th June so you don't have long to wait!
Huge thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait for the next book - hope we don't have to wait too long!
Who doesn't love a good friends to lovers story, am I right? There's something so feel good about two people finally realizing how they feel and then the sweetness of when they get together just makes you smile. I adored Gabe and Ryn. Their friendship was so genuine and they made the cutest couple together. I loved hearing both their POV's in this story - hearing the male side isn't something you always get and I always appreciate knowing what they're thinking.
If you love clean, small town feel good romcom's, this book has to be one you get your hands on. It releases 15th June so you don't have long to wait!
Huge thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait for the next book - hope we don't have to wait too long!
June 15, 2023
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes. These two definitely have that dynamic down, having grown up together and now being inseparable. The entire town ships them, but they both insist that they are just friends. And they are great friends who both have some growing up to do if they are ever going to face the fact that they can be more than that.
The small town shenanigans was fun, as the younger population gets entangled and the older generation match-makes. It all seemed so normal and day-to-day, which is where true love best grows. This story also made me curious about the other sisters' stories.
Note to more sensitive readers: I can't think of anything.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This book is perfect if you're looking for some old-fashioned escapism.
The small town shenanigans was fun, as the younger population gets entangled and the older generation match-makes. It all seemed so normal and day-to-day, which is where true love best grows. This story also made me curious about the other sisters' stories.
Note to more sensitive readers: I can't think of anything.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
This book is perfect if you're looking for some old-fashioned escapism.
June 4, 2023
Absolutely brilliant I've really been looking forward to go back to Hunters Creek, and this book certainly delivered more than I thought it would. While I was eager to read Ryn and Gabe's story it was good to see familiar characters from the previous book. I always remember my mum saying sometimes you cant see what's right in front of you. Its certainly true in Ryn's case all see sees is her best friend Gabe. Although they shared a kiss as a teenager she always thought it was a rebound kiss that meant nothing to Gabe. Gabe dealing with being left by his father and his relationship with Ryn's mom and dad at risk if he admits how he feels for her. This book has smiles, nosey residents and family angst on each turn of the page. I absolutely loved how this played out for Ryn and Gabe, definitely looking forward to Marlowe's story. I was lucky and grateful to receive this book as an ARC copy and this is my honest and personal opinion. Thanks Katie for another brilliant book
June 5, 2023
I totally adore best friends to lovers and Gabe and Ryn were perfect!
They had a really great relationship. You could tell they both loved each other but it took a lot for them to bring those feelings to the surface and REALIZE they were there all along. I love the small town ladies society that keeps coming up with schemes for them to be together. It's not until outside forces (a Hollywood star's assistant that only really loves himself and an ex plus a college friend) vie for their attention does it really happen.
I love that small towns seem to always have the best gossip run through cafes! I really liked what Ryn gave up for Gabe to succeed (no spoilers).
They had a really great relationship. You could tell they both loved each other but it took a lot for them to bring those feelings to the surface and REALIZE they were there all along. I love the small town ladies society that keeps coming up with schemes for them to be together. It's not until outside forces (a Hollywood star's assistant that only really loves himself and an ex plus a college friend) vie for their attention does it really happen.
I love that small towns seem to always have the best gossip run through cafes! I really liked what Ryn gave up for Gabe to succeed (no spoilers).
June 6, 2023
I love everything about this story from the quaint small town of Hunter’s Creek to a great execution of friends to lovers trope. This is book two in the Second Chance Cafe Series but both books can be read as stand alone. It just makes it more fun if you know the characters back stories. I was routing for sweet Gabe and spunky Ryn to get together and now I can’t wait for book 3 with the last sister Marlowe!
June 14, 2023
ARC Review: This was a cute romcom, with men specifically written by women. I don’t know if I have a problem with that but the love interest is definitely too good to be true :)
Thanks to Kate O’Keefe for sending this over!
Thanks to Kate O’Keefe for sending this over!
July 13, 2023
Cute story! I enjoyed the storyline and the characters. It took a bit long to get to the awareness...but it was so fun to watch all the ups and downs to get these two together!
June 3, 2024
2.75. I didn't really like this one for many reasons. I felt like they fell in love like so randomly and I just didn't connect with it.
June 15, 2023
(3.5 Stars) This small town is such an enjoyable setting for a friends-to-more romance and I loved the Second Chance Cafe.
Gabe and Ryn have been best friends forever and when a movie production comes to town, the tangled up dating scene forces suppressed feelings to emerge.
These two have such a simple life in Washington state, doing random jobs to make ends meet and being a great part of the community. I enjoyed reading about Ryn's family and their friends, and especially enjoyed their solid friendship and fierce loyalty to one another.
I was hoping for more of a fake dating/relationship trope, but I was still satisfied by the events that unfolded. This is a fun series about sisters and each book can stand alone. I'm excited to see what's next for Hunter's Creek.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Gabe and Ryn have been best friends forever and when a movie production comes to town, the tangled up dating scene forces suppressed feelings to emerge.
These two have such a simple life in Washington state, doing random jobs to make ends meet and being a great part of the community. I enjoyed reading about Ryn's family and their friends, and especially enjoyed their solid friendship and fierce loyalty to one another.
I was hoping for more of a fake dating/relationship trope, but I was still satisfied by the events that unfolded. This is a fun series about sisters and each book can stand alone. I'm excited to see what's next for Hunter's Creek.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
June 6, 2023
Faking It With My Best Friend was an all around cute read with a quintessential friends to more plotline and small town vibes. Win-win in my book. Gabe and Ryn have been friends forever, but that’s all there is to it, friendship. At least, that’s what they tell the whole town who continues to try and matchmake them. But as in any good rom com where the main characters are “just friends,” we all know that’s not the end of the story. After struggling with a reading slump, I’ve been able to read two adorable romantic comedies back to back by different authors that have really helped to bust the slump. This book was one of those rom coms and I think this was even better than the first book in the series, which I also enjoyed (so don’t think that’s a knock on Faking it With the Grump, book one).
Honestly though, there were moments I was rolling my eyes so hard at Ryn with the whole Joe thing. Like come on girl. Clearly he was a tool! But I guess some girls like that? I dunno. I think the bad boys are fun to read about in books or watch on TV but definitely aren’t worth it in real life. Then Natalie? Take the hint girl. I’m glad the second act drama didn’t drag on and on, and that both Ryn and Gabe were able to own up to and confess their flaws and mistakes. These guys had some definite chemistry going on too! Love that the story has chemistry but remains clean.
I know the next story will be Marlowe’s and I’m really interested to see how that will go based on some of the information we received in this book. She is the last of the Cole sisters so I suppose the series could end there, but there are several side characters that I could see falling into the matchmaking trap of the Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee (hint, hint)
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I’m leaving an honest and voluntary review.
Honestly though, there were moments I was rolling my eyes so hard at Ryn with the whole Joe thing. Like come on girl. Clearly he was a tool! But I guess some girls like that? I dunno. I think the bad boys are fun to read about in books or watch on TV but definitely aren’t worth it in real life. Then Natalie? Take the hint girl. I’m glad the second act drama didn’t drag on and on, and that both Ryn and Gabe were able to own up to and confess their flaws and mistakes. These guys had some definite chemistry going on too! Love that the story has chemistry but remains clean.
I know the next story will be Marlowe’s and I’m really interested to see how that will go based on some of the information we received in this book. She is the last of the Cole sisters so I suppose the series could end there, but there are several side characters that I could see falling into the matchmaking trap of the Hunter’s Creek Ladies Committee (hint, hint)
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I’m leaving an honest and voluntary review.
June 20, 2023
This book is SO cute!!! It is book 2 of the Second Chance Café series by Kate O'Keefe but can be read as a stand-alone. This is my first book that I have read by Kate and I can’t wait to go back and read more of her work!
Faking It With My Best Friend has some of my favorite tropes in it! This book could definitely be made into a Hallmark movie.This is not your typical “faking-it” trope - it is a reverse faking with these two characters thinking they could only be best friends. It was a nice change up for this trope.
You could absolutely feel their love & adoration they had for one another through the pages. I loved their banter and wit. I do feel like the miscommunication may have been dragged out a bit and the use of the words “best friend” may have been overused. I feel like the town was definitely too involved in their relationship but clearly it was obvious that there was something more there.
I didn’t quite vibe with the whole “Peter/Petra Pan” aspect of the book but I get they were still young and didn’t know better. It did give off an overall immaturity feel. BUT it made for great character development later in the book!
I was a little confused by Ryn’s career choice at the end. I felt like she too could have gone into the glass blowing business with Gabe. I also felt like her parents were hinting at something with the coffee house but nothing came of that.
Overall, this was a lovely, heartwarming story. Super quick to read!
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐚𝐬
Best Friends to Lovers
Miscommunication
Small Town Romance
Slow Burn
Dual POV
Thank you Kate O'Keefe & Summer of RomComs 2023 for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Faking It With My Best Friend has some of my favorite tropes in it! This book could definitely be made into a Hallmark movie.This is not your typical “faking-it” trope - it is a reverse faking with these two characters thinking they could only be best friends. It was a nice change up for this trope.
You could absolutely feel their love & adoration they had for one another through the pages. I loved their banter and wit. I do feel like the miscommunication may have been dragged out a bit and the use of the words “best friend” may have been overused. I feel like the town was definitely too involved in their relationship but clearly it was obvious that there was something more there.
I didn’t quite vibe with the whole “Peter/Petra Pan” aspect of the book but I get they were still young and didn’t know better. It did give off an overall immaturity feel. BUT it made for great character development later in the book!
I was a little confused by Ryn’s career choice at the end. I felt like she too could have gone into the glass blowing business with Gabe. I also felt like her parents were hinting at something with the coffee house but nothing came of that.
Overall, this was a lovely, heartwarming story. Super quick to read!
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐚𝐬
Best Friends to Lovers
Miscommunication
Small Town Romance
Slow Burn
Dual POV
Thank you Kate O'Keefe & Summer of RomComs 2023 for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
June 6, 2023
Faking It With My Best Friend is the second book in the Second Chance Cafe series. While I think you could enjoy this story as a standalone, there are definitely some spoilers for the first book if read out of order. I LOVED the first book in this series, and couldn't wait to read Ryn and Gabe's story. Thankfully, it did not disappoint.
The thing I love most in a best friends-to-lovers story is that there is so much history there that makes the romance all that much sweeter... and that was certainly the case here too. I loved the friendship between these two and how everyone in the town, except for Ryn herself, knew that they were meant to end up together. This leads to some fun matchmaking moments from meddling townsfolk... and if there is one thing that makes small-town romances some of the best, it's those meddling townsfolk! This was definitely a bit of a slow burn, but so worth the wait when they finally get together.
This is a closed-door romance- lots of chemistry, but nothing beyond kisses and no bad language.
This was an absolutely fantastic read. If you're looking for your next small-town romance read, this book (and series) is definitely one to check out!
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
The thing I love most in a best friends-to-lovers story is that there is so much history there that makes the romance all that much sweeter... and that was certainly the case here too. I loved the friendship between these two and how everyone in the town, except for Ryn herself, knew that they were meant to end up together. This leads to some fun matchmaking moments from meddling townsfolk... and if there is one thing that makes small-town romances some of the best, it's those meddling townsfolk! This was definitely a bit of a slow burn, but so worth the wait when they finally get together.
This is a closed-door romance- lots of chemistry, but nothing beyond kisses and no bad language.
This was an absolutely fantastic read. If you're looking for your next small-town romance read, this book (and series) is definitely one to check out!
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
June 11, 2023
Ryn and Gabe, both 23, have been best friends forever. Both growing up in a the same small town, Hunter's Creek, in Washington, neither has left to pursue the big city.
One day, their quaint small town gets turned upside down when a Hollywood film crew shows up to shoot a movie. Ryn is starstruck when her teen heartthrob shows up to film, and he even flirts with her a bit. SWOON❤️ But soon Ryn is distracted when bad boy motorcycle riding Joe walks in. Ryn is a sucker for bad boys so it's heart eyes for days 😍😍😍 Joe is definitely open to the possibilities.
As Ryn and Joe start dating, the town seems it have their hearts set on matching the BFFs instead.
This is a sweet clean friends to lovers romance. Gabe is seriously one great guy. One of the best book boyfriends out there.
The small town charm was off the charts and I look forward to the other books in this series, each following a different sister.
As a lover of romance, I'm shocked this is the first book I have read by her. This book is so sweet and uplifting with great character development. I am definitely a forever fan.
4.5 stars
One day, their quaint small town gets turned upside down when a Hollywood film crew shows up to shoot a movie. Ryn is starstruck when her teen heartthrob shows up to film, and he even flirts with her a bit. SWOON❤️ But soon Ryn is distracted when bad boy motorcycle riding Joe walks in. Ryn is a sucker for bad boys so it's heart eyes for days 😍😍😍 Joe is definitely open to the possibilities.
As Ryn and Joe start dating, the town seems it have their hearts set on matching the BFFs instead.
This is a sweet clean friends to lovers romance. Gabe is seriously one great guy. One of the best book boyfriends out there.
The small town charm was off the charts and I look forward to the other books in this series, each following a different sister.
As a lover of romance, I'm shocked this is the first book I have read by her. This book is so sweet and uplifting with great character development. I am definitely a forever fan.
4.5 stars
August 31, 2024
Sweet, contemporary romance
Romance, sweet, contemporary; series but stand alone read
Ryn and Gabe’s story was a sweet friends to more story. Small town setting, some good supporting characters, and told from alternating points of view.
Lovely, sweet moments as Gabe admires Ryn from afar, and tries to keep it just friends when he feels so much more. Ryn, not sure how exactly she feels, hoping for more after she starts realizing how there is so much more to him, and the kids they shared so many years ago that was etched in her brain was the real deal.
True, honest hurting hearts, lovely moments that bring them together, and some sweet swoony kisses as well made for a fantastic read.
Romance, sweet, contemporary; series but stand alone read
Ryn and Gabe’s story was a sweet friends to more story. Small town setting, some good supporting characters, and told from alternating points of view.
Lovely, sweet moments as Gabe admires Ryn from afar, and tries to keep it just friends when he feels so much more. Ryn, not sure how exactly she feels, hoping for more after she starts realizing how there is so much more to him, and the kids they shared so many years ago that was etched in her brain was the real deal.
True, honest hurting hearts, lovely moments that bring them together, and some sweet swoony kisses as well made for a fantastic read.
June 13, 2023
The story follows Ryn and Gabe, who have been best friends for forever. It is set in the small town of Hunter’s Creek, Washington, where everyone knows everyone. One day, Hunter’s Creek gets some excitement when a big Hollywood film crew moves into town to shoot a movie! Ryn's childhood heartthrob shows up in town, but Ryn is into the bad boys. Same girl. She takes an interest in Joe, her celebrity crush's personal assistant. Gabe is working on his internship while taking classes and working towards his own goal.
I thought this book was a quick and fun read. I really loved both MCs and saw a little of myself in them. It was a super cute friends-to-lovers romance and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
I thought this book was a quick and fun read. I really loved both MCs and saw a little of myself in them. It was a super cute friends-to-lovers romance and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
July 4, 2023
What a cute, sweet story! Gabe and Ryn have been best friends for as long as they can remember. They have been through all of life's ups and downs together but Gabe has fallen hard for his best friend while Ryn is still chasing the bad boys. What happens next is their story of how they find each other and become more. I loved the meddling townspeople in this story and all the small town feels. The Hollywood and movie filming added just enough to this story to make the readers wonder what Ryn would do next. I highly recommend picking this one up!
Thank you to Kate O'Keeffe for providing me an eArc in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Kate O'Keeffe for providing me an eArc in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2024
All the feels!
Run and Gabe…best friends for years both holding on to a dream because they don’t think the other person has deeper feelings for them. Hmmm…it’s hard to write this, so I can only imagine how hard it was for Kate O’Keeffe to write a whole book on it, but truly, when the opposite sex spends that much time together, deep feelings are bound to grow. How they both denied them for YEARS not only to themselves, but to each other and to outsiders, had to be exhausting. So glad they came to their senses. Excellent writing and a beautiful way to dig deep into the feelings of both main characters.
Run and Gabe…best friends for years both holding on to a dream because they don’t think the other person has deeper feelings for them. Hmmm…it’s hard to write this, so I can only imagine how hard it was for Kate O’Keeffe to write a whole book on it, but truly, when the opposite sex spends that much time together, deep feelings are bound to grow. How they both denied them for YEARS not only to themselves, but to each other and to outsiders, had to be exhausting. So glad they came to their senses. Excellent writing and a beautiful way to dig deep into the feelings of both main characters.
June 5, 2023
This was the 2nd book in the ‘Faking it…’ series based in Hunter’s Creek, Washington, a small town in the Pacific Northwest. I really enjoyed book #1 Faking it with the Grump so I was looking forward to this one, which focuses on Harper’s younger sister, Ryn. It was a cute, clean romcom. Made me giggle and the small town quirky characters were up to their usual shenanigans. I felt the book was a little too long however and by the end I was like ‘get together already’ lol 😆 But all in all a fun read.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 8, 2023
this was my first kate okeeffe book and i loved it!! i absolutely adore her writing style it is so easy to get through and binge read. thank you so much for sending me a copy of your arc!
i loved the setting of this book. small town settings just have such a great vibe about them. i enjoyed the concept of a movie being filmed in their small town, i thought that was super cute and original.
i really loved gabe and ryn’s characters. they were very easy to like and relate to. they had amazing chemistry and banter and i found myself smiling while i was reading their scenes together. i also really enjoyed the duel pov because then i got to know what both of them were thinking and i felt more connected to them.
i loved the setting of this book. small town settings just have such a great vibe about them. i enjoyed the concept of a movie being filmed in their small town, i thought that was super cute and original.
i really loved gabe and ryn’s characters. they were very easy to like and relate to. they had amazing chemistry and banter and i found myself smiling while i was reading their scenes together. i also really enjoyed the duel pov because then i got to know what both of them were thinking and i felt more connected to them.
June 16, 2023
Oh how I loved Gabe and Ryn's story. Best friends since they were 12 years old. They have been through rough times and good times.
Gabe is able to hide how much he loves Ryn as she his best friend and he won't wreak that friendship.
Ryn cares about Gabe but when she is interested in Joe she comes to realize that Gabe is more than a friend.
When the town festival is happening, Ryn's Aunt Shiela has Gabe and Ryn sing Island in the Stream..and let's say the rest is history!!
Gabe is able to hide how much he loves Ryn as she his best friend and he won't wreak that friendship.
Ryn cares about Gabe but when she is interested in Joe she comes to realize that Gabe is more than a friend.
When the town festival is happening, Ryn's Aunt Shiela has Gabe and Ryn sing Island in the Stream..and let's say the rest is history!!
June 20, 2023
I wasn't sure about this book...Ryn and Gabe had appeared briefly in Harper and Christopher's book but seemed really silly. How wrong was I!! Gabe is AMAZING!! I love his heart and devotion to Ryn and her family. Ryn grows a lot in this book and that is largely due to Gabe. Really looking forward to Marlowe's book and returning to Hunter Creek and the Second Chance Cafe!!
June 5, 2023
I enjoyed getting acquainted with the people living in Hunters Creek. Lots of small town gossip, friendship and helpful family and neighbors. Gabe and Ryn are best friends from high school. Ryn's family all believe they are meant for each other. The two friends think there could never be romantic feelings for each other. Lots of fun happenings occur as the story progresses.
June 5, 2023
Everyone sees that Gabe and Ryn belong together, except Gabe and Ryn.
I loved returning to Hunter’s Creek for this friends to lovers story. I think what I appreciated most is the trust, understanding and true friendship between the MCs. Plus all the quirky fun with the side characters you find in a small-town romance.
If you’re looking for a quick, fun, small-town, closed door romcom, look no further!
Thank you to the author for this ARC!
I loved returning to Hunter’s Creek for this friends to lovers story. I think what I appreciated most is the trust, understanding and true friendship between the MCs. Plus all the quirky fun with the side characters you find in a small-town romance.
If you’re looking for a quick, fun, small-town, closed door romcom, look no further!
Thank you to the author for this ARC!
June 13, 2023
Another fantastic read by this incredible author! I have really enjoyed both of the books in this series and look forward to more of her reads in the near future
June 5, 2023
Small town romances are one of my favourite tropes and this series so far is not disappointing. I loved Harper & Dex, however Ryn & Gabe are definitely my favourite couple so far. The couple face obstacles whilst their friendship develops into something more, which they face and overcome together.
Well done Kate, another fantastic read! I am very much looking forward to seeing where Marlowe’s story takes us next. I received this book as an ARC but these are my honest and personal opinions.
Well done Kate, another fantastic read! I am very much looking forward to seeing where Marlowe’s story takes us next. I received this book as an ARC but these are my honest and personal opinions.
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