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Maybe We Can Fake It
Welcome to Mayweather...
Brenden Sanderson is known in his small town for his sunny personality and being friends with everyone. But when he accidentally tells his adopted daughter’s grandparents that he’s in a serious relationship right before they announce an unexpected visit, he goes into panic mode.
His longtime friend Travis Reed is known in town as a grumpy loner, but he has his reasons, and he also has a serious soft spot for Brenden. So when he offers to help Brenden out by being his fake boyfriend, Brenden isn’t going to turn him down.
What neither of them expect, though, is for fake boyfriends to turn into fake boyfriends with benefits, and then into something else that feels a lot less fake.
Brenden Sanderson is known in his small town for his sunny personality and being friends with everyone. But when he accidentally tells his adopted daughter’s grandparents that he’s in a serious relationship right before they announce an unexpected visit, he goes into panic mode.
His longtime friend Travis Reed is known in town as a grumpy loner, but he has his reasons, and he also has a serious soft spot for Brenden. So when he offers to help Brenden out by being his fake boyfriend, Brenden isn’t going to turn him down.
What neither of them expect, though, is for fake boyfriends to turn into fake boyfriends with benefits, and then into something else that feels a lot less fake.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
137 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
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June 2, 2025
ARC Review
This was so adorable.
We are following Brenden, a single dad and his friend Travis, who runs a diner. Brenden is honestly the most chaotic person you'll ever meet. He’s always freaking out and making mistakes, but he’s trying his best and is an awesome dad. Travis, on the other hand is his complete opposite......... He is super grumpy and keeps to himself but he cares a lot about Brenden. They’re like total opposites but in the best way. Travis is the calm to Brenden’s chaos and the grump to his sunshine. (Also, Brenden calling him "Grumptopus" is the cutest thing ever 🤣) They just fit together perfectly...... like literal soulmates. 🥹
The drama in this book is hilarious, and I was cracking up so many times. The side characters were amazing too (I'm looking at you May), and I’m really hoping Addison gets her own book. 🙏🏼
Honestly, reading this felt like a warm hug on a cold winter night. I’d been reading a lot of dark stuff, and this was the perfect little break I needed.
This was so adorable.
We are following Brenden, a single dad and his friend Travis, who runs a diner. Brenden is honestly the most chaotic person you'll ever meet. He’s always freaking out and making mistakes, but he’s trying his best and is an awesome dad. Travis, on the other hand is his complete opposite......... He is super grumpy and keeps to himself but he cares a lot about Brenden. They’re like total opposites but in the best way. Travis is the calm to Brenden’s chaos and the grump to his sunshine. (Also, Brenden calling him "Grumptopus" is the cutest thing ever 🤣) They just fit together perfectly...... like literal soulmates. 🥹
The drama in this book is hilarious, and I was cracking up so many times. The side characters were amazing too (I'm looking at you May), and I’m really hoping Addison gets her own book. 🙏🏼
Honestly, reading this felt like a warm hug on a cold winter night. I’d been reading a lot of dark stuff, and this was the perfect little break I needed.
May 5, 2025
4.5 stars!
Travis and Brenden have been friends for a while, living in the same small town. When Brenden’s adopted daughter’s maternal grandparents come to town, Brenden panics and tells them he has a longterm boyfriend. Travis offers to help Brenden while they’re in town and they both end up with a little bit more than a fake dating situation and the benefits come soon after. 👀
This was delightful. Travis was the perfect grump and Brenden was the sunshine. This was a wonderful, cozy small town New England read and I had such a nice time. I loved the two MMCs together and May was the perfect meddler in their relationship. The whole book is pretty low angst which I really appreciate. I also loved all the subtle nods to Tammy’s book Heartbreak
honey as well. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to read this ARC! If you want a low angst, Gilmore girls vibe and two MMCs you’ll totally fall for, read this.
Travis and Brenden have been friends for a while, living in the same small town. When Brenden’s adopted daughter’s maternal grandparents come to town, Brenden panics and tells them he has a longterm boyfriend. Travis offers to help Brenden while they’re in town and they both end up with a little bit more than a fake dating situation and the benefits come soon after. 👀
This was delightful. Travis was the perfect grump and Brenden was the sunshine. This was a wonderful, cozy small town New England read and I had such a nice time. I loved the two MMCs together and May was the perfect meddler in their relationship. The whole book is pretty low angst which I really appreciate. I also loved all the subtle nods to Tammy’s book Heartbreak
honey as well. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to read this ARC! If you want a low angst, Gilmore girls vibe and two MMCs you’ll totally fall for, read this.
July 22, 2025
These are emotionally stunted men who do not talk. Ever. Not for 95% of the book. I eventually skipped from chapter to chapter looking for when somebody fucking TALKED about feelings or history or anything of substance. Add in Brenden wouldn't talk about April and he's supposed to be this great dad but did a monumental disservice to his daughter by not speaking about her dead mother FOR TWELVE YEARS FFS until May has to practically beg for him to about her. Travis won't talk to his dad and then not won't talk to Brenden except when they have sex and THEN insisting on remaining in the closet for the dad for apparently no reason because... 🤦♀️
(I'm going to scream here so beware...)
BECAUSE IT TURNS OUT ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING WAS A MISUNDERSTANDING BETWEEN EVERYONE BECAUSE NOBODY FUCKING TALKED FOR 374 PAGES.
Then there's an early 2000s flash mob at the gazebo on the green in their small town
fuck all the way off
(I'm going to scream here so beware...)
BECAUSE IT TURNS OUT ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING WAS A MISUNDERSTANDING BETWEEN EVERYONE BECAUSE NOBODY FUCKING TALKED FOR 374 PAGES.
Then there's an early 2000s flash mob at the gazebo on the green in their small town
fuck all the way off
Read
May 4, 2025This one didn’t do it for me unfortunately—but if you’re a Gilmore Girls fan and want a MM version, then you might enjoy this!
June 2, 2025
Oh my goodness, if you love sweet small town romance shenanigans - Maybe We Can Fake It is the book you NEED. It's got fake dating with SO MUCH mutual pining, a grumpy diner owner and a sweet single dad who owns the town inn. Thank you so much to Tammy Subia for the opportunity to read this one and the beautiful package. A perfect summer read with tons of swoon AND spice!
Maybe We Can Fake it reads like a tv romcom, and I know it's been described as a queer Gilmore Girls (unfortunately I've never watched it - don't @ me!). Brenden is a total goofball, just trying to do his best with his daughter while living up to the expectations of her wealthy grandparents. When he inadvertently proposes fake dating his longtime friend Travis to impress them, he doesn't realize that Travis has had a secret crush on him for YEARS. Travis is very closeted (Brenden didn't even know he wasn't straight), so they have to juggle acting like a couple in front of the family and like friends around town. But the chemistry between them is pretty intense almost immediately, they start hooking up while still fake dating, and it quickly becomes VERY difficult for them to hide. I LOVE mutual pining, and these guys were being ridiculous thinking they were alone in their feelings. Definitely a bit of an idiots to lovers situation going on - EVERYONE around them can see that they are into each other, but Brenden knows that Travis never seriously dates anyone and Travis feels like Brenden will never see him as more than a friend. They figure things out eventually, but I loved all of the laugh out loud funny moments along the way.
This book is the second I've read from Tammy, and oh gosh, I'm definitely going to need more! I loved her debut, Heartbreak Honey (omg, obsessed with all the references here!), and while Maybe We Can Fake it wasn't quite as angsty it was just as sweet and swoony. Highly recommend adding this one to your summer TBR!
Maybe We Can Fake it reads like a tv romcom, and I know it's been described as a queer Gilmore Girls (unfortunately I've never watched it - don't @ me!). Brenden is a total goofball, just trying to do his best with his daughter while living up to the expectations of her wealthy grandparents. When he inadvertently proposes fake dating his longtime friend Travis to impress them, he doesn't realize that Travis has had a secret crush on him for YEARS. Travis is very closeted (Brenden didn't even know he wasn't straight), so they have to juggle acting like a couple in front of the family and like friends around town. But the chemistry between them is pretty intense almost immediately, they start hooking up while still fake dating, and it quickly becomes VERY difficult for them to hide. I LOVE mutual pining, and these guys were being ridiculous thinking they were alone in their feelings. Definitely a bit of an idiots to lovers situation going on - EVERYONE around them can see that they are into each other, but Brenden knows that Travis never seriously dates anyone and Travis feels like Brenden will never see him as more than a friend. They figure things out eventually, but I loved all of the laugh out loud funny moments along the way.
This book is the second I've read from Tammy, and oh gosh, I'm definitely going to need more! I loved her debut, Heartbreak Honey (omg, obsessed with all the references here!), and while Maybe We Can Fake it wasn't quite as angsty it was just as sweet and swoony. Highly recommend adding this one to your summer TBR!
June 7, 2025
Brenden & Travis
Rating: 3.8⭐
- Inn Owner/Diner Owner
- Fake Dating
- Single Dad
- Friends to Lovers
- Small Town
- Sunshine/Grumpy
- Idiots to Lovers
- Mutual Pining
- One Bed
- Gilmore Girls Vibes
This was a sweet idiots to lovers story with Gilmore Girls references (vibes). Oh Brenden, the poor thing just couldn't get out of his head and set himself up for extra stress. Thank goodness his best friend was willing to help him fake being in a relationship. These two have been pining for each other for years, but Brenden thought Travis was straight and Travis doesn't think he's good enough. Enter Brenden's sassy daughter, loved her, on a mission to get these two to see what's right in front of their faces. There are lots of silly and heartfelt moments with the characters and the townsfolk.
I did spend most of this book wanting to shake some sense into both of them because all they really needed to do was communicate. They just refused until it all blew up in their faces.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
- Loss of parents (off page; in past)
- Loss of best friend (off-page)
- Discussion of possible homophobia
- Mentions of homophobic language usage
- Fear of coming out and it's mental toll
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: Yes
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, around a week
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 33 & Unknown 30's
Rating: 3.8⭐
- Inn Owner/Diner Owner
- Fake Dating
- Single Dad
- Friends to Lovers
- Small Town
- Sunshine/Grumpy
- Idiots to Lovers
- Mutual Pining
- One Bed
- Gilmore Girls Vibes
This was a sweet idiots to lovers story with Gilmore Girls references (vibes). Oh Brenden, the poor thing just couldn't get out of his head and set himself up for extra stress. Thank goodness his best friend was willing to help him fake being in a relationship. These two have been pining for each other for years, but Brenden thought Travis was straight and Travis doesn't think he's good enough. Enter Brenden's sassy daughter, loved her, on a mission to get these two to see what's right in front of their faces. There are lots of silly and heartfelt moments with the characters and the townsfolk.
I did spend most of this book wanting to shake some sense into both of them because all they really needed to do was communicate. They just refused until it all blew up in their faces.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
- Loss of parents (off page; in past)
- Loss of best friend (off-page)
- Discussion of possible homophobia
- Mentions of homophobic language usage
- Fear of coming out and it's mental toll
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: Yes
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes, around a week
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 33 & Unknown 30's
April 4, 2025
beta read - will update with a rating and a review at a later date!
July 31, 2025
SO GILMORE-Y. 50% enjoyed, 50% annoyed? Emotionally manipulative fluff I devoured in an afternoon. 🤷🏻♀️
September 21, 2025
This entire book was inside thoughts. apparently you get only 10% out loud conversations.
I picked this based on the cover only because I wanted fluffy and it was definitely that. Did not realize it was a GG rip off MM and it really could have done better if it had not mirrored it so freaking much.
Also, your best friend asks you to adopt her daughter when she's dying and you don't talk about her AT ALL about the mother who birthed her and trusted you to raise her.
I picked this based on the cover only because I wanted fluffy and it was definitely that. Did not realize it was a GG rip off MM and it really could have done better if it had not mirrored it so freaking much.
Also, your best friend asks you to adopt her daughter when she's dying and you don't talk about her AT ALL about the mother who birthed her and trusted you to raise her.
June 13, 2025
Small town, Fake relationship, Single Dad and a sassy teen? This book was tailor made for me and you guessed it. I loved it.
This is Tammy’s second book and it improves on her first work. I loved the friends to lovers slow burn feeling that Brenden and Travis’ relationship had. It took them a while to discover they had feelings for each other and that made it believable.
I love when a teen is wise beyond their years and helps their dad find love, and this is exactly what happens.
If you love single dads, fast dialogue, small towns and cozy feelings, this is for you.
This is Tammy’s second book and it improves on her first work. I loved the friends to lovers slow burn feeling that Brenden and Travis’ relationship had. It took them a while to discover they had feelings for each other and that made it believable.
I love when a teen is wise beyond their years and helps their dad find love, and this is exactly what happens.
If you love single dads, fast dialogue, small towns and cozy feelings, this is for you.
June 7, 2025
It’s no secret that I have a weakness for the grumpy sunshine trope, so when I saw that Maybe We Can Fake It had that for one of it’s tropes I was so excited! And I was right to be because Travis and Brenden’s dynamic was grumpy sunshine perfection. I loved how our loner grump, Travis, showed his soft side with Brenden. And how Brenden, our disaster sunshine, showed his cloudy side with Travis. Other than the grumpy sunshine aspect I really enjoyed how Brenden and Travis were friends first. I really felt the care they had for each other and I think that made their slide from fake dating to a real relationship seamless. Their love story was so good!
On another note, I thought Tammy Subia’s writing was great! I’m always captivated from the first page to the last.
Other things I loved:
- Brenden’s relationship with his daughter, May
- Delilah 🐓
- The May Games
- Small town atmosphere
- Heartbreak Honey references
* I received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
On another note, I thought Tammy Subia’s writing was great! I’m always captivated from the first page to the last.
Other things I loved:
- Brenden’s relationship with his daughter, May
- Delilah 🐓
- The May Games
- Small town atmosphere
- Heartbreak Honey references
* I received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
May 13, 2025
This was so cute and fun! I love Brenden. He’s a delight! He’s so funny and kind and personable. He’s also kind of a mess, which I love. He’s sunshine personified. I love Travis too! He’s such a grump, but deep down he cares so much. He’s thoughtful and giving and he’s so gone for Brenden it’s precious.
I love seeing Brenden and Travis go from friends to lovers, but even more so I love seeing Travis and May build their relationship. Oh and the story of May’s mom gets me every time it’s brought up. I love their friendship and seeing Brenden handle his grief. I also enjoyed the family dynamics and the complications that brought. Oh and the side characters and the small town residents are delightful!
I laughed out loud multiple times, cried a few times, and swooned a lot. I’d definitely recommend.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, single dad, friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, only one bed, fake dating, grief, small town, restaurant owner/inn owner
I love seeing Brenden and Travis go from friends to lovers, but even more so I love seeing Travis and May build their relationship. Oh and the story of May’s mom gets me every time it’s brought up. I love their friendship and seeing Brenden handle his grief. I also enjoyed the family dynamics and the complications that brought. Oh and the side characters and the small town residents are delightful!
I laughed out loud multiple times, cried a few times, and swooned a lot. I’d definitely recommend.
Notes: 2/5 spice levels, single dad, friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, only one bed, fake dating, grief, small town, restaurant owner/inn owner
June 5, 2025
It's always such a joy to read a new book from Tammy, but this new series of hers might just take the cake. A whole series set in a Gilmore Girl esque small town, full of queer love stories 😍. It's honestly my ultimate dream come true, and I'm so happy to have had the privilege to not only arc read this, but beta read it back in February as well. So excited that it's finally out!
💚 Small Town
🐓 Single Dad
💚 Fake Dating
🐓 Friends to Lovers
💚 MM Romance
🐓 One Chaotic Chicken
Starting at the beginning, the prologue of this was super sad. You see how Brenden becomes a single dad after his best friend April leaves her young daughter May to him after losing her battle with cancer. We flash forward 12 years to a much happier time, and see Brenden settled in to the small town of Mayweather, where he has been raising May for nearly her entire life. The town is full of lively characters who all are as helpful as they are nosey (which is exactly how I want my small towns 🥰).
One person in town that Brenden has always been able to rely on is the grumpy diner owner Travis Reed. Travis is a bit of loner, but he has always had a sweet spot for Brenden and his daughter May. And when Brenden comes to Travis in need of someone to play his fake boyfriend to May's grandparents so they see him as a reliable parent, well Travis steps right up to the task... even if Travis has never actually admitted to anyone in town that he's gay 😬. But DETAILS lol
From there the story is an absolutely chaotic, adorable, spicy, chicken filled, hilariously good time! It hit all the notes for me, as I knew it would. I loved the subtle Gilmore Girls references throughout, while also creating such a unique story.
Friends to Lovers, while also fake dating is THE ULTIMATE combination I swear 🙌🏼. The characters get to cross all sorts of lines they would never have crossed as just friends, but under the guise of "practicing" 🤭. It was so fun to watch Brenden and Travis do just that while trying to manage their out of control feelings for one another. Add in the chaos of sneaking around so the rest of the town doesn't find out, while being open in front of the grandparents made for a very interesting storyline!
Overall, you all know I loved this. I have been screaming about it for months and I will continue to do so until we get the next book in the series (which I am so excited for a certain head chefs romance next 👀). What a delightfully wholesome and unabashedly queer good time. As a die hard Gilmore Girls lover this gets my stamp of approval! 🤗
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
💚 Small Town
🐓 Single Dad
💚 Fake Dating
🐓 Friends to Lovers
💚 MM Romance
🐓 One Chaotic Chicken
Starting at the beginning, the prologue of this was super sad. You see how Brenden becomes a single dad after his best friend April leaves her young daughter May to him after losing her battle with cancer. We flash forward 12 years to a much happier time, and see Brenden settled in to the small town of Mayweather, where he has been raising May for nearly her entire life. The town is full of lively characters who all are as helpful as they are nosey (which is exactly how I want my small towns 🥰).
One person in town that Brenden has always been able to rely on is the grumpy diner owner Travis Reed. Travis is a bit of loner, but he has always had a sweet spot for Brenden and his daughter May. And when Brenden comes to Travis in need of someone to play his fake boyfriend to May's grandparents so they see him as a reliable parent, well Travis steps right up to the task... even if Travis has never actually admitted to anyone in town that he's gay 😬. But DETAILS lol
From there the story is an absolutely chaotic, adorable, spicy, chicken filled, hilariously good time! It hit all the notes for me, as I knew it would. I loved the subtle Gilmore Girls references throughout, while also creating such a unique story.
Friends to Lovers, while also fake dating is THE ULTIMATE combination I swear 🙌🏼. The characters get to cross all sorts of lines they would never have crossed as just friends, but under the guise of "practicing" 🤭. It was so fun to watch Brenden and Travis do just that while trying to manage their out of control feelings for one another. Add in the chaos of sneaking around so the rest of the town doesn't find out, while being open in front of the grandparents made for a very interesting storyline!
Overall, you all know I loved this. I have been screaming about it for months and I will continue to do so until we get the next book in the series (which I am so excited for a certain head chefs romance next 👀). What a delightfully wholesome and unabashedly queer good time. As a die hard Gilmore Girls lover this gets my stamp of approval! 🤗
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
June 22, 2025
If you love Gilmore Girls this book is for you.
While I like Gilmore Girls, if I'm in the mood for it, I take out a DVD, I didn't really want to read about it?
A queer Gilmore Girls sounds fun but it had the same issues that annoy me about the show.
The characters are insufferable, at least Lorelai/Brenden is! I grew up with Gilmore Girls and rewatching it as an adult made me realize that Lorelai is not a good mom at all and I have the same feelings about Brenden. If your child says to you, get a therapist, warning bells should ring. May was very mature for her age, which says a lot about the parents if you ask me and I don't mean that in a positive way.
While Travis was better, like Luke I kinda loved him, he still did some things that annoyed me so much. He didn't come out to his dad because he is afraid his that calls him a slur? Excuse me, what? You decide dating and love isn't for you because of this stupid reason?!?? If someone's stops loving you because of your sexuality, gender or other reasons, that's on them and not on you! Your better off without them.
Of course his dad's reaction was very predictable. The same goes for May's grandparents, everything felt predictable. Let's be honest, that's not necessarily a bad thing, I guess I just wasn't in the mood for it with this book.
Another thing that was incredibly annoying to me, the coffee consumption. Sure sure Gilmore Girls, I know they are obsessed with coffee but having it here as well and not just that but May, the 13 year old May is obsessed with it too? Maybe it's a me issues but I don't think kids should drink coffee, it's not cute or quirky, it's weird.
I get it, it's a fake relationship and I read quite a few of them, so I get the whole 'there are xyz reasons, why we can't be together', it just felt mentioned too often in this book, idk.
What I did love was the pining though. Ugh give me a man that pines for years, I love it every time!
I disliked the grand gesture though, I'm more of a private and intense speech than grand gesture girl. Just my personal opinion.
Even though I said I'm not the biggest fan about the whole Gilmore Girls similarities, I wished for even more Stars Hollow vibes. Stars Hollow just seems like the perfect place to live!
Overall this review sounds bad, it's not a bad book though! Don't let me dissuade you!! If you want a cozy and fluffy small town romance it's the book for you. Full disclosure though, I didn't read the prologue.
The cover is great too and I'm glad to have it in my collection!
While I like Gilmore Girls, if I'm in the mood for it, I take out a DVD, I didn't really want to read about it?
A queer Gilmore Girls sounds fun but it had the same issues that annoy me about the show.
The characters are insufferable, at least Lorelai/Brenden is! I grew up with Gilmore Girls and rewatching it as an adult made me realize that Lorelai is not a good mom at all and I have the same feelings about Brenden. If your child says to you, get a therapist, warning bells should ring. May was very mature for her age, which says a lot about the parents if you ask me and I don't mean that in a positive way.
While Travis was better, like Luke I kinda loved him, he still did some things that annoyed me so much. He didn't come out to his dad because he is afraid his that calls him a slur? Excuse me, what? You decide dating and love isn't for you because of this stupid reason?!?? If someone's stops loving you because of your sexuality, gender or other reasons, that's on them and not on you! Your better off without them.
Of course his dad's reaction was very predictable. The same goes for May's grandparents, everything felt predictable. Let's be honest, that's not necessarily a bad thing, I guess I just wasn't in the mood for it with this book.
Another thing that was incredibly annoying to me, the coffee consumption. Sure sure Gilmore Girls, I know they are obsessed with coffee but having it here as well and not just that but May, the 13 year old May is obsessed with it too? Maybe it's a me issues but I don't think kids should drink coffee, it's not cute or quirky, it's weird.
I get it, it's a fake relationship and I read quite a few of them, so I get the whole 'there are xyz reasons, why we can't be together', it just felt mentioned too often in this book, idk.
What I did love was the pining though. Ugh give me a man that pines for years, I love it every time!
I disliked the grand gesture though, I'm more of a private and intense speech than grand gesture girl. Just my personal opinion.
Even though I said I'm not the biggest fan about the whole Gilmore Girls similarities, I wished for even more Stars Hollow vibes. Stars Hollow just seems like the perfect place to live!
Overall this review sounds bad, it's not a bad book though! Don't let me dissuade you!! If you want a cozy and fluffy small town romance it's the book for you. Full disclosure though, I didn't read the prologue.
The cover is great too and I'm glad to have it in my collection!
June 1, 2025
Queer twist on Luke and Lorelai? Yeth pleathe!!!!
If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls, this is the one for you. This felt like Tammy Subia’s love letter to the show. You can tell the impact it’s had on her. It’s incredibly special to experience that love within the pages of MAYBE WE CAN FAKE IT.
All the twists that are put upon the book like fake dating, April (which I’m just now connecting the name), and some others that I don’t want to giveaway pair well with all of the parallels from the show. And yes, if you’ve watched Gilmore Girls before, you will be noticing similarities. Obviously.
I enjoyed Travis and Brenden immensely. Their dynamic is not only sweet, but it felt so safe and real from the start. Brenden is so messy with a quick wit and Travis has the brooding down pat. When Travis’s soft side came out, oh, I melted!!! I looooove a gruff man who’s only soft for his man!
I have to shoutout the May games. That shit was hilarious. Speaking of that, the humor was excellent. A bit cringe. A bit smart. I ate it up.
I feel that I really got to know the characters and this story and this world so well. I love that about Tammy’s writing. She’s not one to miss details. And I appreciate that about an author. I love digging deep into a world and Tammy’s writing allows me to do exactly that.
Lastly, to the miscommunication haters: I will give it to you just this once. Four stars because the sheer amount of miscommunication in this book pissed even me off.
Thank you Tammy Subia for the ARC. 🫶🏼
If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls, this is the one for you. This felt like Tammy Subia’s love letter to the show. You can tell the impact it’s had on her. It’s incredibly special to experience that love within the pages of MAYBE WE CAN FAKE IT.
All the twists that are put upon the book like fake dating, April (which I’m just now connecting the name), and some others that I don’t want to giveaway pair well with all of the parallels from the show. And yes, if you’ve watched Gilmore Girls before, you will be noticing similarities. Obviously.
I enjoyed Travis and Brenden immensely. Their dynamic is not only sweet, but it felt so safe and real from the start. Brenden is so messy with a quick wit and Travis has the brooding down pat. When Travis’s soft side came out, oh, I melted!!! I looooove a gruff man who’s only soft for his man!
I have to shoutout the May games. That shit was hilarious. Speaking of that, the humor was excellent. A bit cringe. A bit smart. I ate it up.
I feel that I really got to know the characters and this story and this world so well. I love that about Tammy’s writing. She’s not one to miss details. And I appreciate that about an author. I love digging deep into a world and Tammy’s writing allows me to do exactly that.
Lastly, to the miscommunication haters: I will give it to you just this once. Four stars because the sheer amount of miscommunication in this book pissed even me off.
Thank you Tammy Subia for the ARC. 🫶🏼
June 9, 2025
This was a cute story. Could definitely tell this was inspired by Gilmore Girls.
I will say this book had me in tears with the prologue. Finding out what brought Brenden to the small town broke my heart.
Brenden and Travis are adorable. The way Travis loves Brenden is perfect. I love a grumpy man who is only sweet for his man. Brenden is the perfect single dad who just loves his daughter.
I will say I struggled with the miscommunication parts with Brenden and Travis. There was a lot of repetition about how they can’t be together and no real communication between each other. Also the miscommunication between Travis and his daughter’s grand parents was not working for me.
Overall very cute story but didn’t quite hit for me.
I will say this book had me in tears with the prologue. Finding out what brought Brenden to the small town broke my heart.
Brenden and Travis are adorable. The way Travis loves Brenden is perfect. I love a grumpy man who is only sweet for his man. Brenden is the perfect single dad who just loves his daughter.
I will say I struggled with the miscommunication parts with Brenden and Travis. There was a lot of repetition about how they can’t be together and no real communication between each other. Also the miscommunication between Travis and his daughter’s grand parents was not working for me.
Overall very cute story but didn’t quite hit for me.
June 6, 2025
i loved travis & i loved may & i wish we had seem more of april because i know i would love her too.
i loved the fake dating trope, especially once it started feeling like it wasn't fake.👀
i loved the fake dating trope, especially once it started feeling like it wasn't fake.👀
dnf
July 7, 2025The story was cute and I wanted to love it, but the main character, a 33 year old man, had the same voice as a 16 year old girl, which…I could NOT get past.
August 8, 2025
This was SUPER cute especially if you enjoyed Gilmore Girls! <3
July 17, 2025
Not showing us how Brenden and Travis became friends was a very big missed opportunity imo. Travis alluded to a number of scenes that would've been amazing to read had we seen them (moving to town at around the same time, helping Brenden with his move furniture, fix flat tires, help with May's birthday). Just skipping to the friendship is fine, but I wish we saw the start of it.
May did not act like a 13 year old at all. Her dialogue made her sound like Brenden's same-aged best friend than it was his daughter.
The obvious next book setup scene between Travis and Connor was unnecessary and happened wayyyyyy too early. Stiff like that should really be saved post resolution, not randomly 30% in. Also, it didn't make sense for Connor to come out to Travis when Travis was in the closet anyway. Weird for him to randomly spill his guts towards a guy he was only sort of friends with.
The dynamic was way too unbalanced imo. Brenden kept on asking and asking for Travis to do things for him while offering nothing in return. Brenden asked for help at his inn, the fake boyfriend thing, asked Travis to participate in the festival games while Brenden asked for nothing in return. Got a little annoying seeing one side be so needy yet offer nothing but a thank you as appreciation. Yes it was sincere, but Brenden should've shown his appreciation by doing something selfless for Travis in return (sex doesn't count because he also did that for his own personal enjoyment)
The third act breakup (which only lasted like two days, so I don't freaky think you can call it that) was ok. The flashmob at the end was cringe but I guess Brenden did say he wanted that, so I suppose it worked as a grand gesture.
Brenden's feelings towards May's grandparents were interesting and at least characterized him as insecure about his parenting, so he wasn't just a complete bog standard character. Travis was a bit too willing to give into Brenden, but that at least was also justified by his crush. His relationship with his dad being another misunderstanding sort of emphasizes how this book was really just an exercise in patience as you try to suspend the urge to yell at the characters to just freaking talk about things like their emotions and what not. I get that the topics weren't really the easiest to just have a discussion about (feelings and sexuality are rather touchy) but having nearly all of the conflict come from things left unspoken made the story feel a bit tedious since it meant that the characters needed to be unsettling to actually have honesty conversations to keep the plot going.
TL;DR: The story felt overly long but otherwise not super noteworthy. There's a lot of internal dialogue, a lot of misunderstanding, and I wished that either Travis or Brenden actually freaking talked about at least some of their feelings towards each other and the people around them.
May did not act like a 13 year old at all. Her dialogue made her sound like Brenden's same-aged best friend than it was his daughter.
The obvious next book setup scene between Travis and Connor was unnecessary and happened wayyyyyy too early. Stiff like that should really be saved post resolution, not randomly 30% in. Also, it didn't make sense for Connor to come out to Travis when Travis was in the closet anyway. Weird for him to randomly spill his guts towards a guy he was only sort of friends with.
The dynamic was way too unbalanced imo. Brenden kept on asking and asking for Travis to do things for him while offering nothing in return. Brenden asked for help at his inn, the fake boyfriend thing, asked Travis to participate in the festival games while Brenden asked for nothing in return. Got a little annoying seeing one side be so needy yet offer nothing but a thank you as appreciation. Yes it was sincere, but Brenden should've shown his appreciation by doing something selfless for Travis in return (sex doesn't count because he also did that for his own personal enjoyment)
The third act breakup (which only lasted like two days, so I don't freaky think you can call it that) was ok. The flashmob at the end was cringe but I guess Brenden did say he wanted that, so I suppose it worked as a grand gesture.
Brenden's feelings towards May's grandparents were interesting and at least characterized him as insecure about his parenting, so he wasn't just a complete bog standard character. Travis was a bit too willing to give into Brenden, but that at least was also justified by his crush. His relationship with his dad being another misunderstanding sort of emphasizes how this book was really just an exercise in patience as you try to suspend the urge to yell at the characters to just freaking talk about things like their emotions and what not. I get that the topics weren't really the easiest to just have a discussion about (feelings and sexuality are rather touchy) but having nearly all of the conflict come from things left unspoken made the story feel a bit tedious since it meant that the characters needed to be unsettling to actually have honesty conversations to keep the plot going.
TL;DR: The story felt overly long but otherwise not super noteworthy. There's a lot of internal dialogue, a lot of misunderstanding, and I wished that either Travis or Brenden actually freaking talked about at least some of their feelings towards each other and the people around them.
June 7, 2025
I’ve wanted Brenden Sanderson for so damn long. And I’m afraid getting this taste of him, this tease, has opened the floodgates for me. I’m not sure I can hold back my desire any longer. But I’ll have to keep trying.
When his adopted daughter’s grandparents inform him they’re coming for a visit and make an offhand comment about how nice it would be if his daughter had more than one parental figure, Brenden, in a moment of panic, tells them he’s in a serious relationship. The only problem? He’s very, very single. But luckily, his good friend, Travis, has always had a soft spot for him and agreed to be Brenden’s fake boyfriend while the grandparents are here. What started as fake quickly begins to feel very real, but are they brave enough to finally admit it?
This was a very cute story. It was full of lots of things I love in a romance novel - single dad, small town with quirky/meddling townspeople, grumpy/sunshine, fake dating, and only one bed, to name a few. Brenden was so sunshiny and was a great dad for May, but he kept a lot of anxiety and lingering grief locked away because he didn’t want anyone to think he didn’t have his life completely together. I liked seeing him let down his guard with Travis and start to let other people help him carry some of that. I also loved Brenden’s relationship with May. She was a good kid and was a great supporting character in this story.
I’m a fan of grumpy characters who have a secret soft spot for the sunshine character. Travis was so good to Brenden and May, always there when they needed him. It was clear as day that he cared deeply about them, even before the fake dating began. It was only amplified when they started to pretend they were boyfriends. These two were so gone for each other even as they continued to insist they were just keeping up the fake dating ruse. I wouldn’t say there was miscommunication, but there was certainly a lack of it from time to time, as they each assumed what the other was feeling vs. talking about it. But I get why, in their heads, they thought it was best that way. What’s important is that they got there in the end, complete with a pretty epic grand gesture that I loved!
What the heck has gotten into me? No, not what. Who. Travis fucking Reed. That’s who. He’s gotten into my pants and into my head, and I’m not sure how easy it’ll be to get him out again. But it sure would be nice if maybe, just maybe, I didn’t have to.
May 21, 2025
🌼 OH MY GOODNESS 😭💛 Maybe We Can Fake It was everything I didn’t know I needed!! From the emotional prologue (cue the tears 😭) to the most heartwarming, low-angst ride, this was such a feel-good story that wrapped around my heart and refused to let go. 💕 It had me giggling, melting, and swooning from start to finish. The Gilmore Girls vibes? IMMACULATE. Small-town charm? And Mayweather? Yeah, I’d move there in a heartbeat. 🏡✨
Brenden… sweet, anxious Brenden. He’s all nerves and overthinking, but still somehow the brightest little ball of sunshine ☀️ and I LOVED HIM FOR IT. Watching him care for May, his daughter, melted me into a puddle. And don’t even get me started on how beautifully he stepped into the dad role his best friend April trusted him with 🥺💖
And then there’s Travis. Grumpy, dependable, quietly steady Travis. 🖤 He shows up for Brenden again and again—even before Brenden realises just how much he needs someone in his corner. I loved how fiercely he protected their friendship, and how it slowly, deliciously turned into something more. Like HELLO fake dating?? YES PLEASE 🙌
The way their relationship unfolded—slow, intentional, and layered with so much care—was just everything. They were both so scared of ruining what they had… but watching them fall anyway? PURE MAGIC. ✨ And when the spice hit?? Whew. The connection was perfection. 🔥
And the side characters?? ICONIC. From May and her unwavering support for her dad, to her chaotic grandparents who kick off the whole fake dating plan 😂 to the adorable, quirky town folk—I’m obsessed. I want to move to this town and never leave 🏡💫
Tammy Subia delivered something soft, chaotic, and completely charming. If you’re looking for a romance that balances real emotion with laugh-out-loud moments and a couple that fits together in the most perfect, imperfect way… this is it. 🫶
✨ Fake dating, sunshine/grump, small-town sweetness, and a whole lot of heart—Maybe We Can Fake It has it all. Don’t miss this one. 💖
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!*
Brenden… sweet, anxious Brenden. He’s all nerves and overthinking, but still somehow the brightest little ball of sunshine ☀️ and I LOVED HIM FOR IT. Watching him care for May, his daughter, melted me into a puddle. And don’t even get me started on how beautifully he stepped into the dad role his best friend April trusted him with 🥺💖
And then there’s Travis. Grumpy, dependable, quietly steady Travis. 🖤 He shows up for Brenden again and again—even before Brenden realises just how much he needs someone in his corner. I loved how fiercely he protected their friendship, and how it slowly, deliciously turned into something more. Like HELLO fake dating?? YES PLEASE 🙌
The way their relationship unfolded—slow, intentional, and layered with so much care—was just everything. They were both so scared of ruining what they had… but watching them fall anyway? PURE MAGIC. ✨ And when the spice hit?? Whew. The connection was perfection. 🔥
And the side characters?? ICONIC. From May and her unwavering support for her dad, to her chaotic grandparents who kick off the whole fake dating plan 😂 to the adorable, quirky town folk—I’m obsessed. I want to move to this town and never leave 🏡💫
Tammy Subia delivered something soft, chaotic, and completely charming. If you’re looking for a romance that balances real emotion with laugh-out-loud moments and a couple that fits together in the most perfect, imperfect way… this is it. 🫶
✨ Fake dating, sunshine/grump, small-town sweetness, and a whole lot of heart—Maybe We Can Fake It has it all. Don’t miss this one. 💖
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!*
June 4, 2025
Oh my God! What an utterly adorable, five star, must read small-town romance! You get that it’s always been him vibe, charm galore, the cutest and sweetest dad daughter relationship, a story about best friends that will actually break you, relatable family dynamics that just melt you heart and soul when both Travis and Brenden realize perception is not reality, oodles and oodles of humor, it’ll crack you wide open and have those tears free falling, and there is literally nothing better than these two “faking” a relationship that they’re both already so far into before it even starts it’s straight up laughable they think they’re faking a single thing. It’s grumpy/sunshine, loss and learning to live again and let go, the families you make, the ones that choose you, and the ones that have always loved you in their own way, and finally being honest that from the second he walked into your life he’s been your sunshine and you have been his rock and that’s exactly how it was always supposed to be.
This book just has your whole heart from the very first chapter. It is such a great, well written story where every character is fabulous, the plot feels rich and full of depth, and it just repeatedly, emotionally digs deeper. Brenden will have you all twisted up as his doubts and fears about being a single parent, about being enough, and living up to both his own and his imagined expectations just rip right through your heart, Travis and his worry that it’s far too late to be honest with his family hit you just as hard in a different way, and May, this girl is the best with both a wisdom that far surpasses her age and a huge heart that only ever wants to see her dad happy. It’s about the hurt we bring on ourselves with our imagined judgy perceptions, how much happiness pushing those aside and seeing what’s really there brings, and just letting go and letting yourself fall, and it’s beautiful, it’s fun, and it’s completely fantastic.
This book just has your whole heart from the very first chapter. It is such a great, well written story where every character is fabulous, the plot feels rich and full of depth, and it just repeatedly, emotionally digs deeper. Brenden will have you all twisted up as his doubts and fears about being a single parent, about being enough, and living up to both his own and his imagined expectations just rip right through your heart, Travis and his worry that it’s far too late to be honest with his family hit you just as hard in a different way, and May, this girl is the best with both a wisdom that far surpasses her age and a huge heart that only ever wants to see her dad happy. It’s about the hurt we bring on ourselves with our imagined judgy perceptions, how much happiness pushing those aside and seeing what’s really there brings, and just letting go and letting yourself fall, and it’s beautiful, it’s fun, and it’s completely fantastic.
September 3, 2025
I went out on a limb for this. I was looking for something really light and fluffy to give my brain and mental health a break, and this succeeded! I'd seen someone on Bookstagram rave about it!
If you are a fan of Gilmore Girls or any kind of tv show from that era featured in a small town, THIS IS FOR YOU! It had so much spunk, sass, heart, and pining!!! With the correct amount of internal angst to balance the scale a bit, the outcome of the novel was exactly what I needed and hoped for. It is a Fake Dating, Friends-to-Lovers, Grumpy-Sunshine, Single Father MM Romance. That was a fun formula trope combination. Obviously, it got spicy 5/5🌶. The character development was also a formula of sorts as, yes, singular these guys can live and function on their own but why when you can do it together an support each other. The progression of their relationship is mostly one-sided as one of the MCs just likes taking care of the other. While their trajectory together was the main plot, they also both had a plot for themselves they had to figure out on their own, which was nice to see. It's all about growth. The ensemble was pretty nice in size with so much room for a whole slue of books in a series if the author wanted to. The only 2 things I didn't care for were the miscommunication/not communicating trope. It's my least favorite persoanlly. But also, it lasted way too long into the novel. I understand why, but it really bogged the experience down a little. Also, their internal thoughts and dialog were a little repetitive. That's it. I will be recommending this book to people that I know, especially my fellow Gilmore Guys & Gurls! and I can't wait to see what the author has in store next.
ps, there are major easter eggs to one of her other books referenced throughout the novel, which now makes me want to go read that one. It doesn't take place in town but in the same universe. It's called HEARTBREAK HONEY.
If you are a fan of Gilmore Girls or any kind of tv show from that era featured in a small town, THIS IS FOR YOU! It had so much spunk, sass, heart, and pining!!! With the correct amount of internal angst to balance the scale a bit, the outcome of the novel was exactly what I needed and hoped for. It is a Fake Dating, Friends-to-Lovers, Grumpy-Sunshine, Single Father MM Romance. That was a fun formula trope combination. Obviously, it got spicy 5/5🌶. The character development was also a formula of sorts as, yes, singular these guys can live and function on their own but why when you can do it together an support each other. The progression of their relationship is mostly one-sided as one of the MCs just likes taking care of the other. While their trajectory together was the main plot, they also both had a plot for themselves they had to figure out on their own, which was nice to see. It's all about growth. The ensemble was pretty nice in size with so much room for a whole slue of books in a series if the author wanted to. The only 2 things I didn't care for were the miscommunication/not communicating trope. It's my least favorite persoanlly. But also, it lasted way too long into the novel. I understand why, but it really bogged the experience down a little. Also, their internal thoughts and dialog were a little repetitive. That's it. I will be recommending this book to people that I know, especially my fellow Gilmore Guys & Gurls! and I can't wait to see what the author has in store next.
ps, there are major easter eggs to one of her other books referenced throughout the novel, which now makes me want to go read that one. It doesn't take place in town but in the same universe. It's called HEARTBREAK HONEY.
July 5, 2025
This charming, slow-burn romance is a heartfelt addition to the fake relationship trope, and it completely won me over. The story kicks off with a compelling premise: Brenden, eager to convince his adoptive daughter May’s grandparents that he’s in a stable relationship, ropes in his straight best friend Travis to pose as his boyfriend. What follows is anything but stable—Brenden is riddled with anxiety and self-doubt, while Travis is still closeted and anxious about coming out to his father and the wider community.
Despite the emotional minefield, there’s something deeply endearing about the dynamic between Brenden and Travis. Travis’s eventual vulnerability—confiding in Brenden about his sexuality—marks a turning point that begins to shift their fake romance into something much more real (and very spicy!). The chemistry between them is palpable, and the steamy scenes manage to strike a balance between heat and tenderness.
That said, the classic fake-dating pitfall makes its expected appearance: a frustrating lack of communication. Both men fall hard, but neither believes the other sees them as more than a friend. More than once, I found myself internally screaming at the pages, willing them to just talk to each other! Still, the emotional payoff is worth it, and watching them stumble their way into love was incredibly satisfying.
What truly elevated this book for me was May. Her clever, heartwarming attempts to play matchmaker for her dad and Travis were a highlight. Tammy deserves serious praise for giving voice to children of queer parents in such a positive and empowering way—it was both touching and refreshing to see.
This book is a sweet, sexy, small-town romance that makes for the perfect summer read.
𝗠𝘆 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁…
May’s delightful little schemes to bring Brendan and Travis together.
Despite the emotional minefield, there’s something deeply endearing about the dynamic between Brenden and Travis. Travis’s eventual vulnerability—confiding in Brenden about his sexuality—marks a turning point that begins to shift their fake romance into something much more real (and very spicy!). The chemistry between them is palpable, and the steamy scenes manage to strike a balance between heat and tenderness.
That said, the classic fake-dating pitfall makes its expected appearance: a frustrating lack of communication. Both men fall hard, but neither believes the other sees them as more than a friend. More than once, I found myself internally screaming at the pages, willing them to just talk to each other! Still, the emotional payoff is worth it, and watching them stumble their way into love was incredibly satisfying.
What truly elevated this book for me was May. Her clever, heartwarming attempts to play matchmaker for her dad and Travis were a highlight. Tammy deserves serious praise for giving voice to children of queer parents in such a positive and empowering way—it was both touching and refreshing to see.
This book is a sweet, sexy, small-town romance that makes for the perfect summer read.
𝗠𝘆 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁…
May’s delightful little schemes to bring Brendan and Travis together.
June 22, 2025
Maybe We Can Fake It by Tammy Subia
💚 Inn Owner x Diner Owner
💚 Friends to Lovers
💚 Grumpy x Sunshine
💚 Fake Dating
💚 Lots of Pining
💚 Single Dad
💚 Small Town
🔥 Mild Dirty Talk, Intercrural Sex, Shower Sex, Face-Fucking, S*x Toys (prostate Massager)
This book was a great mix of wholesome, small town goodness with plenty of sweet and swoony moments and some really hot and spicy scenes. There was some fantastic pining between the MCs which brought some great tension to the story and was highlighted by their decade long friendship.
I really liked how the story not only focused on the relationship between the two MCs, but also on each of the MCs relationships with their relatives too. Seeing the characters relationships with their families develop and change was a nice side of the story and definitely helped with the small town, wholesome vibes of the book. I've not read anything by this author before and I really enjoyed their writing style.
There were some parts of this book that I really loved, but there were also some small things that didn't hit quite right for me which reflects in my rating of the book. The ending also felt a little quick and I would have loved another few chapters of Brenden & Travis together at the end of the book.
That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am definitely looking forward to seeing what other stories the author brings us from this world!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Humour: 🤭🤭.5
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): Loss of parents (off-page, in past), Loss of best friend (off-page), Discussion of possible homophobia.
CW (extra): Terminal Illness & Hospitalisation (side character), Use of a slur (by SC, off page, past).
💚 Inn Owner x Diner Owner
💚 Friends to Lovers
💚 Grumpy x Sunshine
💚 Fake Dating
💚 Lots of Pining
💚 Single Dad
💚 Small Town
🔥 Mild Dirty Talk, Intercrural Sex, Shower Sex, Face-Fucking, S*x Toys (prostate Massager)
This book was a great mix of wholesome, small town goodness with plenty of sweet and swoony moments and some really hot and spicy scenes. There was some fantastic pining between the MCs which brought some great tension to the story and was highlighted by their decade long friendship.
I really liked how the story not only focused on the relationship between the two MCs, but also on each of the MCs relationships with their relatives too. Seeing the characters relationships with their families develop and change was a nice side of the story and definitely helped with the small town, wholesome vibes of the book. I've not read anything by this author before and I really enjoyed their writing style.
There were some parts of this book that I really loved, but there were also some small things that didn't hit quite right for me which reflects in my rating of the book. The ending also felt a little quick and I would have loved another few chapters of Brenden & Travis together at the end of the book.
That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am definitely looking forward to seeing what other stories the author brings us from this world!
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Humour: 🤭🤭.5
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW (from author): Loss of parents (off-page, in past), Loss of best friend (off-page), Discussion of possible homophobia.
CW (extra): Terminal Illness & Hospitalisation (side character), Use of a slur (by SC, off page, past).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2025
Maybe We Can Fake It by @tammysubiabooks is such a great book. Even though life got in the way and I couldn’t progress at the pace I would have liked, whenever I wasn’t reading I was still thinking about Brenden and Travis. I love grumpy/sunshine pairings—especially when the grumpy one isn’t actually that grumpy, and especially not with the sunshine character. And especially when it’s obvious that they’ve always found each other attractive anyway.
And oh my God, I felt it coming so hard that Travis’s dad was going to show up and Travis would instantly shut down! I could’ve smacked him, I swear! But then when he finally talked to his dad and his dad just laughed in his face? Like—what did he think, that as his father he wouldn’t know he’s gay? 😂 Okay, I absolutely loved that.
There was only one thing I didn’t like—and honestly, I don’t like this trope in general—which is when characters don’t communicate or they miscommunicate. Here, for example, they were both already feeling something serious for each other, but based on a single sentence from the other, they each concluded that the other didn’t want anything from them, instead of just being honest about their feelings. So I was definitely grumbling while reading, like: dude, come on, pull yourself together and just say it! But of course not, because that would’ve been too easy 🤦🏻♀️😂
But overall, I truly loved the book—the townspeople who loved sticking their noses into everything, and May, stirring the pot so these two would finally get together 🤩
And oh my God, I felt it coming so hard that Travis’s dad was going to show up and Travis would instantly shut down! I could’ve smacked him, I swear! But then when he finally talked to his dad and his dad just laughed in his face? Like—what did he think, that as his father he wouldn’t know he’s gay? 😂 Okay, I absolutely loved that.
There was only one thing I didn’t like—and honestly, I don’t like this trope in general—which is when characters don’t communicate or they miscommunicate. Here, for example, they were both already feeling something serious for each other, but based on a single sentence from the other, they each concluded that the other didn’t want anything from them, instead of just being honest about their feelings. So I was definitely grumbling while reading, like: dude, come on, pull yourself together and just say it! But of course not, because that would’ve been too easy 🤦🏻♀️😂
But overall, I truly loved the book—the townspeople who loved sticking their noses into everything, and May, stirring the pot so these two would finally get together 🤩
April 15, 2025
From the moment I heard about this book, I knew I would love it but WOW it exceeded expectations! It was a struggle to put down because I wanted to devour it all in one sitting.
One of my favorite things about fake dating is the unique reason, and then seeing the chemistry develop. Seeing them grow from friends to something even closer while they had to keep up the ruse was such a beautiful part of this story.
Brenden is an amazing dad to May, making her his priority always. So when her grandparents make a comment about him raising her alone, he lies and says he has a boyfriend. He confides in his friend, and diner owner, Travis, his worries about losing his daughter, which ultimately has Travis half offering to be his fake boyfriend. Which isn't easy when you're not out...
Travis has been pining after Brenden for years and I loved how we were able to see that in the words and actions, and see how those feelings have continued to grow in the span of the few weeks they spend together. The chemistry between them is REAL and it's so obvious how they're meant to be.
I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good fake dating romance - this is definitely one of my top ones!
-Single Dad
-Fake Dating
-Friends to Lovers
-Grumpy x Sunshine
One of my favorite things about fake dating is the unique reason, and then seeing the chemistry develop. Seeing them grow from friends to something even closer while they had to keep up the ruse was such a beautiful part of this story.
Brenden is an amazing dad to May, making her his priority always. So when her grandparents make a comment about him raising her alone, he lies and says he has a boyfriend. He confides in his friend, and diner owner, Travis, his worries about losing his daughter, which ultimately has Travis half offering to be his fake boyfriend. Which isn't easy when you're not out...
Travis has been pining after Brenden for years and I loved how we were able to see that in the words and actions, and see how those feelings have continued to grow in the span of the few weeks they spend together. The chemistry between them is REAL and it's so obvious how they're meant to be.
I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good fake dating romance - this is definitely one of my top ones!
-Single Dad
-Fake Dating
-Friends to Lovers
-Grumpy x Sunshine
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