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Faking Romance
Roxy Benedict’s dream of opening a romance bookstore is coming true. Finally, things are going her way, until her new neighbor starts complaining that she’s too loud.
Grayson Porter loves his quiet building. But when a noisy tenant moves in, he’s left wondering if he can finish composing a soundtrack for a film. As a musician, this could be his big break. If he doesn’t get some peace and quiet soon, he’s going to lose his mind.
But Grayson has another, potentially bigger problem. He might have lied to the film producer that he had a girlfriend. When their landlord decides to set them up on a blind date for a party with the film’s cast and crew, the two are shocked and about to call off their date, until the film’s producer takes a liking to Roxy. Roxy sees her chance to win over her grumpy neighbor and Grayson sees a chance to impress a potential client. The question How long can this truce last?
And then, there is their apartment building. A mystery over a missing neighbor has Roxy and Grayson spending even more time together. These two neighbors are faking romance for their own benefit, but will the playing pretend turn into something more?
Grayson Porter loves his quiet building. But when a noisy tenant moves in, he’s left wondering if he can finish composing a soundtrack for a film. As a musician, this could be his big break. If he doesn’t get some peace and quiet soon, he’s going to lose his mind.
But Grayson has another, potentially bigger problem. He might have lied to the film producer that he had a girlfriend. When their landlord decides to set them up on a blind date for a party with the film’s cast and crew, the two are shocked and about to call off their date, until the film’s producer takes a liking to Roxy. Roxy sees her chance to win over her grumpy neighbor and Grayson sees a chance to impress a potential client. The question How long can this truce last?
And then, there is their apartment building. A mystery over a missing neighbor has Roxy and Grayson spending even more time together. These two neighbors are faking romance for their own benefit, but will the playing pretend turn into something more?
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2025
141 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Rose
99 books1,579 followersUSA Today & International Bestselling romance author, S.E. Rose lives near Washington D.C. with her family. When she's not wrangling her cats or keeping up with her kids, she's plotting her next story.
She loves all things wine, coffee, and cats. In her non-existent free time, she enjoys traveling, going to concerts, binging on her favorite shows, and reading, especially if it's a good mystery or comedy.
She loves all things wine, coffee, and cats. In her non-existent free time, she enjoys traveling, going to concerts, binging on her favorite shows, and reading, especially if it's a good mystery or comedy.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 8, 2025
I am familiar with this author’s previous works, but this series is rapidly becoming my favorite.
I love the premise of this story - and Grayson is absolutely yummy! Roxie’s a great pretend girlfriend—though we all know it’s real!—and I loved seeing them finally get together. Their chemistry is electric, and I love the lighthearted interactions and relationships among the building’s residents.
This is a fantastic and entertaining first book in the series, a great starting point for new readers of this author. Relatable, easy to connect with the characters, and I finished it quicker than I wanted… it was so good.
I was fortunate to receive a free ARC (thank you) and happily leave my review. Can’t WAIT to see (the mysterious) Kasen’s HEA, coming next.
I love the premise of this story - and Grayson is absolutely yummy! Roxie’s a great pretend girlfriend—though we all know it’s real!—and I loved seeing them finally get together. Their chemistry is electric, and I love the lighthearted interactions and relationships among the building’s residents.
This is a fantastic and entertaining first book in the series, a great starting point for new readers of this author. Relatable, easy to connect with the characters, and I finished it quicker than I wanted… it was so good.
I was fortunate to receive a free ARC (thank you) and happily leave my review. Can’t WAIT to see (the mysterious) Kasen’s HEA, coming next.
May 18, 2025
Roxy moves out her parent's house after a bad breakup. She leases a store with an apartment in the back that she’ll turn into a romance bookstore
Roxy’s invited to a happy hour on the roof where she meets her other neighbors in the building as well as seeing Grayson again. Grayson is a musician who lives on the second floor. Grayson won a competition where the music he wrote for the film was chosen. Al, the landlord sets him up with Roxy, his neighbor unbeknownst to him for the film’s wrap up party happy hour.
The twists and turns in Gray and Roxy’s relationship is very true to reality. I love them both so much. Can't wait til book 2
Roxy’s invited to a happy hour on the roof where she meets her other neighbors in the building as well as seeing Grayson again. Grayson is a musician who lives on the second floor. Grayson won a competition where the music he wrote for the film was chosen. Al, the landlord sets him up with Roxy, his neighbor unbeknownst to him for the film’s wrap up party happy hour.
The twists and turns in Gray and Roxy’s relationship is very true to reality. I love them both so much. Can't wait til book 2
May 13, 2025
4 Star Review Faking Romance (Romances In The Building #) by S. E. Rose
Book one in the latest Romances In The Building series was an entertaining and well written story that ticked a number of boxes for me.
This is Roxy Benedict and Grayson Porter’s story and I found myself invested in the story that the author wove.
Faking Romance was a romantic story and I enjoyed the push and pull dynamic as their relationship moved forward from fake to real.
Book one in the latest Romances In The Building series was an entertaining and well written story that ticked a number of boxes for me.
This is Roxy Benedict and Grayson Porter’s story and I found myself invested in the story that the author wove.
Faking Romance was a romantic story and I enjoyed the push and pull dynamic as their relationship moved forward from fake to real.
May 20, 2025
Faking Romance is book one in the Romances in the Building Book Series by S.E. Rose.
Roxbury Benedict decides to go for her dream. She wants to open a romance bookstore.
The story opens with her leasing a storefront to open her dream bookstore called Happily Ever After Romance Bookstore.
And so begins Roxy's journey at One Eleven Hearts Lane. The building is full of an eclectic range of tenants.
And you quickly come to realize they are a family. Not by blood, but by proximity.
While getting her bookstore ready to open, Roxy quickly finds out that the tenant living on the second floor, Grayson Porter, dislikes noise.
While putting some furniture for the store together she has the pleasure of meeting Mr. Porter when he knocks on her door asking her to not make noise for the next two hours. He is a composer and is writing a score for an up and coming movie and this is his big chance. He can't allow a little noise to sideline his project.
When Roxy agrees to not make noise, she tells him that she can paint for a bit. And again - he asks her not to do that either, as the fumes cause him migraines. Roxy is beginning to understand her grumpy upstairs neighbor.
After weeks of getting the store ready for opening Roxy agrees to a blind date, set up by her landlord Al.
Al asks her to meet her blind date at a bar down the street. When she arrives she realizes Al has set her up with her upstairs neighbor Grayson.
While Grayson and Roxy are both in shock that Al would have the audacity to set them up together they actually end up having a really good time.
Realizing that they have misjudged each other immensely they decide to enter into an arrangement that benefits both of them.
Grayson needs a fake girlfriend, since he told the producer of his movie that he had a girlfriend. He isn't sure why he lied and didn't know how to take it back. Roxy actually enjoyed herself with Grayson, and if entering into this arrangement will get him to stop complaining about the noise, she is all for it.
Will this arrangement work out, or will it cost them everything?
I absolutely loved this book. It was hilarious, steamy and magical all at the same time.
Some of the great parts of the book: Someone leaves flowers on a bench in the park across the street from their building everyday.
It's a great mystery who is doing this. And the notes that are on the flowers, just touch people's lives! it's quite beautiful.
My favorite line from the book: "I don't pay attention because I'm too busy kissing my dream guy, my very own real grumpy-sunshine, enemies-to-lover, fake-relationship, one-bed-trope, neighbor-romance book boyfriend."
Definitely recommend, can't wait for the next book in this series! I hope that every tenant gets their love story!
Roxbury Benedict decides to go for her dream. She wants to open a romance bookstore.
The story opens with her leasing a storefront to open her dream bookstore called Happily Ever After Romance Bookstore.
And so begins Roxy's journey at One Eleven Hearts Lane. The building is full of an eclectic range of tenants.
And you quickly come to realize they are a family. Not by blood, but by proximity.
While getting her bookstore ready to open, Roxy quickly finds out that the tenant living on the second floor, Grayson Porter, dislikes noise.
While putting some furniture for the store together she has the pleasure of meeting Mr. Porter when he knocks on her door asking her to not make noise for the next two hours. He is a composer and is writing a score for an up and coming movie and this is his big chance. He can't allow a little noise to sideline his project.
When Roxy agrees to not make noise, she tells him that she can paint for a bit. And again - he asks her not to do that either, as the fumes cause him migraines. Roxy is beginning to understand her grumpy upstairs neighbor.
After weeks of getting the store ready for opening Roxy agrees to a blind date, set up by her landlord Al.
Al asks her to meet her blind date at a bar down the street. When she arrives she realizes Al has set her up with her upstairs neighbor Grayson.
While Grayson and Roxy are both in shock that Al would have the audacity to set them up together they actually end up having a really good time.
Realizing that they have misjudged each other immensely they decide to enter into an arrangement that benefits both of them.
Grayson needs a fake girlfriend, since he told the producer of his movie that he had a girlfriend. He isn't sure why he lied and didn't know how to take it back. Roxy actually enjoyed herself with Grayson, and if entering into this arrangement will get him to stop complaining about the noise, she is all for it.
Will this arrangement work out, or will it cost them everything?
I absolutely loved this book. It was hilarious, steamy and magical all at the same time.
Some of the great parts of the book: Someone leaves flowers on a bench in the park across the street from their building everyday.
It's a great mystery who is doing this. And the notes that are on the flowers, just touch people's lives! it's quite beautiful.
My favorite line from the book: "I don't pay attention because I'm too busy kissing my dream guy, my very own real grumpy-sunshine, enemies-to-lover, fake-relationship, one-bed-trope, neighbor-romance book boyfriend."
Definitely recommend, can't wait for the next book in this series! I hope that every tenant gets their love story!
April 8, 2026
Faking Romance is an engaging contemporary romance that blends the beloved fake dating trope with humor, light mystery, and strong character-driven storytelling.
One of the book’s standout strengths is its central premise. The combination of a fake relationship formed out of mutual convenience and the added pressure of professional stakes creates a dynamic setup that feels both entertaining and purposeful. The tension between personal goals and growing emotional connection keeps the narrative moving at a steady pace.
Roxy Benedict is a particularly vibrant protagonist. Her passion for opening a romance bookstore adds a meta-layer to the story, while her optimism and determination make her easy to root for. In contrast, Grayson Porter’s more reserved and disciplined personality creates a strong oppositional dynamic that drives much of the book’s humor and chemistry.
The relationship between Roxy and Grayson develops naturally, supported by witty dialogue and situational tension. Their initial friction evolves into a believable partnership, making the transition from pretense to genuine emotion feel earned rather than rushed.
Another notable aspect is the subtle mystery woven into the story. The missing neighbor subplot adds an extra layer of intrigue, giving the narrative more depth than a traditional romcom while keeping the tone light and accessible.
Overall, Faking Romance is a fun and well-balanced story that combines romance, humor, and a touch of suspense. It’s a strong choice for readers who enjoy fake dating tropes with engaging characters and an added narrative twist.
One of the book’s standout strengths is its central premise. The combination of a fake relationship formed out of mutual convenience and the added pressure of professional stakes creates a dynamic setup that feels both entertaining and purposeful. The tension between personal goals and growing emotional connection keeps the narrative moving at a steady pace.
Roxy Benedict is a particularly vibrant protagonist. Her passion for opening a romance bookstore adds a meta-layer to the story, while her optimism and determination make her easy to root for. In contrast, Grayson Porter’s more reserved and disciplined personality creates a strong oppositional dynamic that drives much of the book’s humor and chemistry.
The relationship between Roxy and Grayson develops naturally, supported by witty dialogue and situational tension. Their initial friction evolves into a believable partnership, making the transition from pretense to genuine emotion feel earned rather than rushed.
Another notable aspect is the subtle mystery woven into the story. The missing neighbor subplot adds an extra layer of intrigue, giving the narrative more depth than a traditional romcom while keeping the tone light and accessible.
Overall, Faking Romance is a fun and well-balanced story that combines romance, humor, and a touch of suspense. It’s a strong choice for readers who enjoy fake dating tropes with engaging characters and an added narrative twist.
May 19, 2025
From the beginning I knew there was going to be something different about this story. Faking Romance by S.E. Rose had me captivated. The quaint neighborhood, the street activity, oh and the building that houses all these interesting characters.
This is the story of Roxy and Grayson, two people who happen to run into each other…or better yet, start off on the wrong foot. Saying they did not start off making sweet music would be an understatement. Heck, let me go further and say Grayson would not have made a good book boyfriend even…to begin with. But throw in some coincidences that cannot be changed, a chance meeting and some subtle nudging from the powers that be in the building and you will soon discover, they were destined (or doomed...haha) from the beginning.
This is Book 1 in the Romance in the Building Series. This story has so many fun contributors that you will be swept away with all their activity. Where else can you find lost souls, matchmakers, amateur spies, grumpy men, strong women, an adorable little one and even a cat? Yep, I think that just about describes the building. The details on this series show it is only going to be 2 stories. I hope that chances, because there are so many other reveals that need to come to light among all these resident personalities.
S.E. Rose, you have a winner with this 5-star story. Great job and I cannot wait to read the next installment!
This is the story of Roxy and Grayson, two people who happen to run into each other…or better yet, start off on the wrong foot. Saying they did not start off making sweet music would be an understatement. Heck, let me go further and say Grayson would not have made a good book boyfriend even…to begin with. But throw in some coincidences that cannot be changed, a chance meeting and some subtle nudging from the powers that be in the building and you will soon discover, they were destined (or doomed...haha) from the beginning.
This is Book 1 in the Romance in the Building Series. This story has so many fun contributors that you will be swept away with all their activity. Where else can you find lost souls, matchmakers, amateur spies, grumpy men, strong women, an adorable little one and even a cat? Yep, I think that just about describes the building. The details on this series show it is only going to be 2 stories. I hope that chances, because there are so many other reveals that need to come to light among all these resident personalities.
S.E. Rose, you have a winner with this 5-star story. Great job and I cannot wait to read the next installment!
May 17, 2025
I’m in love with Gray and Roxy. Their budding romance is too entertaining to not fall in love with them. Roxy agrees to be his “fake girlfriend” and their chemistry is so strong that everyone around them can see it. They have their moments when he first meets her and she and him don’t get along. But as time goes on, you can see that it’s not cause they don’t get along it’s cause they are so in tune to each other. He’s getting over a breakup while trying to develop his music career and she’s trying to open her new bookstore while trying to prove she’s got a promising career after a break up with a cheating boyfriend.
You are taken into this book like you are one of the people living in the apartment building and seeing it through their eyes. This definitely feels like one of those made for tv movies but in book form. I think the best thing is she’s opening her bookstore wants that book boyfriend relationship and she’s getting it without even thinking it’s that kind of thing.
You laugh when they “adopt” licorice, and how they laugh at being terrible parents even though it’s just a cat. They really have a fun time “playing” the relationship until they decide they want more.
I couldn’t put this book down and loved everything about it. You’re going to want these neighbors to be yours and your new best friends because there is never going to be a dull moment.
You are taken into this book like you are one of the people living in the apartment building and seeing it through their eyes. This definitely feels like one of those made for tv movies but in book form. I think the best thing is she’s opening her bookstore wants that book boyfriend relationship and she’s getting it without even thinking it’s that kind of thing.
You laugh when they “adopt” licorice, and how they laugh at being terrible parents even though it’s just a cat. They really have a fun time “playing” the relationship until they decide they want more.
I couldn’t put this book down and loved everything about it. You’re going to want these neighbors to be yours and your new best friends because there is never going to be a dull moment.
May 19, 2025
*4,5 stars*
Well that was truly a fun, romantic and sweet story that had me smiling so many times but also had emotional moments that definitely held their place in my heart. I truly enjoyed the journey of Grayson & Roxy but also the banter between them. As I kept on smiling and hoping for a happy ending, I just fell more in love with both characters and the charm of the story. A great enjoyable read!
Grayson is working on a new piece for a new movie and is working tirelessly on it but noise from downstairs is just taking him out of his concentration. When he first meets Roxy, things really don't go well but he hopes to be able to land the job he's worked so hard for to get. Roxy has dreamt of a bookstore of her own and when she finally starts to move forward, she has some doubts but feels lucky to finally persue her dream. As she's living in the new apartment, she loves most of her new neighbours in the building but for some reason, she and Grayson aren't getting along. When he needs a fake date, an unexpected event happens and they're thrown together. As they get along with everything, they get to know each other better and they may find something between them than just a fake relationship. But will it all work out in the end?...
Well that was truly a fun, romantic and sweet story that had me smiling so many times but also had emotional moments that definitely held their place in my heart. I truly enjoyed the journey of Grayson & Roxy but also the banter between them. As I kept on smiling and hoping for a happy ending, I just fell more in love with both characters and the charm of the story. A great enjoyable read!
Grayson is working on a new piece for a new movie and is working tirelessly on it but noise from downstairs is just taking him out of his concentration. When he first meets Roxy, things really don't go well but he hopes to be able to land the job he's worked so hard for to get. Roxy has dreamt of a bookstore of her own and when she finally starts to move forward, she has some doubts but feels lucky to finally persue her dream. As she's living in the new apartment, she loves most of her new neighbours in the building but for some reason, she and Grayson aren't getting along. When he needs a fake date, an unexpected event happens and they're thrown together. As they get along with everything, they get to know each other better and they may find something between them than just a fake relationship. But will it all work out in the end?...
May 24, 2025
Faking Romance by S.E. Rose is a charming and heartwarming fake relationship romance set against the cozy backdrop of a romance bookstore and a quirky neighborhood. The story follows Roxy Benedict, whose dream of opening a romance bookstore is finally coming true, and her grumpy new neighbor, with whom she agrees to fake a relationship for their mutual benefit.
What I enjoyed most was the delightful chemistry and witty banter between Roxy and her neighbor, which brings both humor and warmth to the story. The slow-building romance feels natural and engaging, with plenty of sweet moments that highlight the characters’ vulnerabilities and growth. The bookstore setting adds a unique and cozy charm, making it a perfect read for romance lovers.
While the plot follows some familiar fake-dating tropes, S.E. Rose’s engaging writing and well-drawn characters elevate the story, making it feel fresh and enjoyable. The pacing keeps the story moving smoothly, balancing romantic tension with lighthearted fun.
Overall, Faking Romance is a solid four-star read for fans of contemporary romance who appreciate a blend of humor, heart, and a touch of grump/sunshine dynamics. S.E. Rose delivers a feel-good, cozy romance that’s both entertaining and sweet.
What I enjoyed most was the delightful chemistry and witty banter between Roxy and her neighbor, which brings both humor and warmth to the story. The slow-building romance feels natural and engaging, with plenty of sweet moments that highlight the characters’ vulnerabilities and growth. The bookstore setting adds a unique and cozy charm, making it a perfect read for romance lovers.
While the plot follows some familiar fake-dating tropes, S.E. Rose’s engaging writing and well-drawn characters elevate the story, making it feel fresh and enjoyable. The pacing keeps the story moving smoothly, balancing romantic tension with lighthearted fun.
Overall, Faking Romance is a solid four-star read for fans of contemporary romance who appreciate a blend of humor, heart, and a touch of grump/sunshine dynamics. S.E. Rose delivers a feel-good, cozy romance that’s both entertaining and sweet.
May 18, 2025
This is a great start to a new series, all set within one building,
Roxy has never been able to shake the feeling of inadequacy she feels around her very intelligent and accomplished family. She's a disaster in relationships too and has decided to swear off men for a while. With a small inheritance she is determined to open her dream romance bookstore. With a small flat attached to the store, she'll have zero commute too.
Her introduction to her new neighbours goes swimmingly - well, except when she meets the grumpy cellist upstairs who constantly moans about the noise! But Gray and Roxy are soon caught up in a fake relationship scheme and you just know the fake part won't last!
AS usual everyone around them sees the "real" feelings before our MC's! Unfortunately not all goes well for our chemistry fuelled leads. Gray's gold-digging ex causes Roxy to tailspin and Gray has to be instructed in the art of the "big apology". Throw in an adorable stray cat and their parental bickering over said cat and you have a winner.
The found family vibes is strong within this building and they really are a tight knit little group. I've loved meeting all the neighbours and seeing who could be future couples. There is LGBTQ+ representation and there are some fantastically eccentric elderly characters too.
Roll on book 2!
Roxy has never been able to shake the feeling of inadequacy she feels around her very intelligent and accomplished family. She's a disaster in relationships too and has decided to swear off men for a while. With a small inheritance she is determined to open her dream romance bookstore. With a small flat attached to the store, she'll have zero commute too.
Her introduction to her new neighbours goes swimmingly - well, except when she meets the grumpy cellist upstairs who constantly moans about the noise! But Gray and Roxy are soon caught up in a fake relationship scheme and you just know the fake part won't last!
AS usual everyone around them sees the "real" feelings before our MC's! Unfortunately not all goes well for our chemistry fuelled leads. Gray's gold-digging ex causes Roxy to tailspin and Gray has to be instructed in the art of the "big apology". Throw in an adorable stray cat and their parental bickering over said cat and you have a winner.
The found family vibes is strong within this building and they really are a tight knit little group. I've loved meeting all the neighbours and seeing who could be future couples. There is LGBTQ+ representation and there are some fantastically eccentric elderly characters too.
Roll on book 2!
May 11, 2025
Faking Romance is Grayson Porter and Roxy Benedict’s entertaining story and it’s book one in the new Romances in the Building and it’s a great start to the series.
Roxy’s dream of opening a romance bookstore has finally come true but from the moment she found the premises she has got into it with her new neighbour.
Grayson is a musician working on a soundtrack for a film and has no problem letting her know he has an issue with the noise. But what happens when their landlord sets them up on a blind date……..it seems this date could be the answer to both of their problems and fake dating could save the day. Spending time together has feelings coming into play and that’s when things get real interesting.
This is a well written, entertaining and captivating story, I fell hard and fast for the grumpy Grayson and I want Roxy in my corner but what took this book to the next level was watching these two push each others buttons as their relationship develops.
Roxy’s dream of opening a romance bookstore has finally come true but from the moment she found the premises she has got into it with her new neighbour.
Grayson is a musician working on a soundtrack for a film and has no problem letting her know he has an issue with the noise. But what happens when their landlord sets them up on a blind date……..it seems this date could be the answer to both of their problems and fake dating could save the day. Spending time together has feelings coming into play and that’s when things get real interesting.
This is a well written, entertaining and captivating story, I fell hard and fast for the grumpy Grayson and I want Roxy in my corner but what took this book to the next level was watching these two push each others buttons as their relationship develops.
May 16, 2025
I loved, loved, loved the found family living in the building, all were friends looking out for each other, but all from different ages and backgrounds. The building happy hour moments were my favourite.
The style of writing where several things are going and the characters are all interacting with each other really pulled me into the building and made me invested in the characters. Hutch and his 'flower watch' was brilliant!
Grayson is a complete grump when he meets Roxy, and they do not like each other at all..... but there is a little spark. I didn't really like Gray at first either. When the building matchmaker sets them up, their fake relationship starts, but it doesn't stay fake for long.
There was chemistry between these two from the beginning. It was easy to see they would be perfect for each other.
This was an entertaining read, and I'm looking forward to reading more about all the people in the building.
The style of writing where several things are going and the characters are all interacting with each other really pulled me into the building and made me invested in the characters. Hutch and his 'flower watch' was brilliant!
Grayson is a complete grump when he meets Roxy, and they do not like each other at all..... but there is a little spark. I didn't really like Gray at first either. When the building matchmaker sets them up, their fake relationship starts, but it doesn't stay fake for long.
There was chemistry between these two from the beginning. It was easy to see they would be perfect for each other.
This was an entertaining read, and I'm looking forward to reading more about all the people in the building.
May 19, 2025
This book was a fun start to a new series full of interesting characters. A fun group to be around, witty banter, strong friendships and so much more we haven't even touched the surface of yet.
Roxy moves into the commercial space at the bottom of the building with a small apartment at the back of the store. She is finally doing something for her and opening a romance book store.
Grayson is enjoying the quiet while he works on this current project and trying to start his music career. But when the lady moves in downstairs and starts make all kinds of noise while he works, they have a bit of a clashing at their first meet.
When the neighbors get themselves involved. One thing leads to another and they find themselves fake dating for appearances for Gray's work. Could this be the beginning of something more?
Grab your copy and enjoy the adventure at Hearts Lane.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Roxy moves into the commercial space at the bottom of the building with a small apartment at the back of the store. She is finally doing something for her and opening a romance book store.
Grayson is enjoying the quiet while he works on this current project and trying to start his music career. But when the lady moves in downstairs and starts make all kinds of noise while he works, they have a bit of a clashing at their first meet.
When the neighbors get themselves involved. One thing leads to another and they find themselves fake dating for appearances for Gray's work. Could this be the beginning of something more?
Grab your copy and enjoy the adventure at Hearts Lane.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
May 8, 2025
How do you possibly find a second chance to make a better first impression? If you’re Gray, you trust someone to set you up to hopefully save the opportunity of a lifetime. And if you’re Roxy, you don’t need to fix that impression, but you will definitely let your soft heart help the grump.
I really enjoyed this “not so meet cute” tale about how Gray and Roxy find their way to love. He’s not as grumpy as you’d think, but he’s stressed. She’s not the flighty person he thinks, but is instead everything Gray ever needed or wanted in life. Sure, it takes help from the boys neighbors/friends to make them see it. Yeah, when it looks REALLY bad from one angle, a grovel is needed. And yes, that grovel is exactly what is necessary to prove the size of the love to be had.
I’m loving this apartment and neighborhood so far and I can’t wait for whatever comes next!
I really enjoyed this “not so meet cute” tale about how Gray and Roxy find their way to love. He’s not as grumpy as you’d think, but he’s stressed. She’s not the flighty person he thinks, but is instead everything Gray ever needed or wanted in life. Sure, it takes help from the boys neighbors/friends to make them see it. Yeah, when it looks REALLY bad from one angle, a grovel is needed. And yes, that grovel is exactly what is necessary to prove the size of the love to be had.
I’m loving this apartment and neighborhood so far and I can’t wait for whatever comes next!
May 19, 2025
‘I just lived a book boyfriend scene in real life.’
This one made me smile all of the way through it. Our leading lady doesn’t know it, but when Roxy rents out a retail space with a studio apartment behind it in a building full of interesting characters sure to provide us with an untold number of follow up books, she inadvertently steps into one of the romance novels she plans on selling. Her grumpy (and sexy as sin) upstairs neighbor finds himself in need of a fake girlfriend and their mischievous landlord sets them up on a blind date...that turns spice and all too real...Absolutely fantastic!
This one made me smile all of the way through it. Our leading lady doesn’t know it, but when Roxy rents out a retail space with a studio apartment behind it in a building full of interesting characters sure to provide us with an untold number of follow up books, she inadvertently steps into one of the romance novels she plans on selling. Her grumpy (and sexy as sin) upstairs neighbor finds himself in need of a fake girlfriend and their mischievous landlord sets them up on a blind date...that turns spice and all too real...Absolutely fantastic!
May 19, 2025
This grumpy-sunshine, enemies-to-lovers, fake-relationship read was very cute.
Roxy was the perfect person to be opening a romance bookstore, constantly wanting a romance to rival one in her books.
Grayson was the perfect grumpy neighbour who fits the perfect book boyfriend mold.
When they are set up on a blond date because Gray needs a fake girlfriend sparks fly and the chemistry is instant.
These two quickly become friends and lines start to blur between fake and real.
This was a cute read.
Although the story was predictable I enjoyed their story and can't wait to read about the others in the building.
I was given a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review
Roxy was the perfect person to be opening a romance bookstore, constantly wanting a romance to rival one in her books.
Grayson was the perfect grumpy neighbour who fits the perfect book boyfriend mold.
When they are set up on a blond date because Gray needs a fake girlfriend sparks fly and the chemistry is instant.
These two quickly become friends and lines start to blur between fake and real.
This was a cute read.
Although the story was predictable I enjoyed their story and can't wait to read about the others in the building.
I was given a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review
May 19, 2025
This was such a cute story and can’t wait to see how the entire series plays out. It’s a little bit of a slow burn, but there is chemistry and some steamy scenes. Gray is a full on grump, and I could not stand him in the beginning, but he grew on me. Roxy is a very relatable MC, and the tenants of the apartment building are a hoot. This author has a knack for writing sassy/spicy female senior citizens. There were a couple things that didn’t play out in the book so they seemed unnecessary in moving the plot forward; however, there is one character (and I’m curious to see where his story will land) that I think his story arc will build throughout the series.
May 18, 2025
Faking Romance was such a fun read. This is a grumpy/sunshine, fake dating, neighbors romance. I loved everything about this book from the blind date, fake girlfriend to them being cat parents. I especially loved that the whole building is one great big found family. Grayson and Roxy can’t really fake their feelings even though they try. Everyone can see right through them. As much as they want to deny it, their feelings are real. I’m still a bit curious about the mysterious flowers and Kasen. I hope to get some insight into Kasen soon. I love a good mystery and he seems very mysterious.
April 9, 2026
Faking Romance is a cute and fast paced story giving us Grayson and Roxy as they enter a fake relationship that quickly turns real. The story was fine for the most part and the main characters were okay but a bit too immature at times for my personal liking. I didn’t care for the whole miscommunication that happened towards the end, I feel like that is something that a lot of books do and I never care for it. There were also a lot of pop culture references throughout which I also tend to not care for. I did however like the side characters and I liked the little mystery aspect of the story.
May 29, 2025
What a fantastic story, loved the characters in the building, such an array of personalities in one building, the mystery of the flowers that flows through, the tenant who hasn’t been seen for a while, the lovely old man who hasn’t created a family, the premise is delightful, then add in a grumpy alpha and romance book store owner and you have a delicious page turner, can’t wait to read more!!
May 24, 2025
This is the first book in the Romances in the Building series. It’s an entertaining, fast paced, fun to read romance. Grayson and Roxy definitely get off of the wrong foot! He’s her grumpy neighbor and complains about Everything! I enjoyed this slow burn plot
April 8, 2026
Oh what a great book. I loved Roxy and Grey so much. Started offfake dating then to the real thing then insecurities come along. Great book!!
April 14, 2026
An easy read. Sweet without being saccharine. A bit light on character development but still, worth it.
May 19, 2025
That is definitely how you start a new series! Talk about an extremely entertaining read with fun characters…this was all that and more. Roxy is extremely excited to be opening up her very own bookstore…a romance bookstore. As she gets the store ready she has a major pain in her backside. One of her neighbors….he is a grumpy composer that literally complains about everything. Grayson is working on new music and is very annoyed by all the noise coming from the new business below. He has no problem complaining…over and over again….he is definitely a grump. This is a fast paced read that is sooo incredibly entertaining. Each character has a bigger personality than the next. Grayson and Roxy were no exception. Her sassy replies definitely made his grumpiness more enjoyable. These two definitely knew what buttons to push….and boy did they push them. I am Very excited about this new series and I can’t wait to find out more information on each character. Bring on the next book.
June 20, 2025
The cover is perfection! Love this book! The grumpy / sunshine is so fun to read. First time reading SE Rose and I can’t wait for more from this series
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