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Fauxmance Files
The #FakeBoyfriend Bet
A grumpy bartender, a desperate influencer, a bet and a fake relationship. What could possibly go wrong?
Lena
The internet is watching my career crash and burn in real-time.
One viral breakup video, and suddenly my influencer empire is collapsing faster than my ex's fake apology video. My sponsors are running for the hills. My manager is stress-eating donuts by the dozen.
The only solution? Find a man who has no clue who I am and convince him to be my fake boyfriend.
Enter Max Carter.
Holy mountains of muscle.
He's a bartender with a permanent scowl who looks at me like I'm everything wrong with society. He doesn't know I have two million followers hanging on my every post.
He just knows I'm the crazy woman offering him money to pretend he can't keep his hands off me.
What I never expected? Those staged kisses would turn into real flames. His growled warnings when other men look my way? They make me shiver in places that have no business shivering.
This was supposed to be fake. So why does it feel like I'm losing something real?
Max
I don't do relationships. I definitely don't do fake ones.
Then she walks into my bar.
Sunshine in human form, with curves that make my hands itch and a smile that's hiding secrets.
When my idiot friends bet me I can't fake-date her for thirty days without catching feelings, my pride kicks in before my brain does. Besides, how hard can it be to resist a woman who talks to her phone all day and pretends to be something she's not?
Turns out, impossible.
Because behind the perfect social media facade is a woman who makes me laugh, who challenges me, who sets my blood on fire with one touch.
Now I'm breaking every rule I made. Jealous when men look at her. Possessive when I pull her against me. And completely screwed when she discovers the stupid bet that started it all.
She walked away. Left me with nothing but regret and an empty bed.
But this grumpy bartender isn't giving up without a fight.
Because our love story? It was never fake. And I'll do whatever it takes to prove it.
A steamy, dual-POV romance featuring a sunshine influencer with secrets, the grumpy bartender who can't resist her, and a fake relationship that gets all too real. Complete with sizzling chemistry, heart-melting moments, and the happily ever after that will leave you swooning.
Lena
The internet is watching my career crash and burn in real-time.
One viral breakup video, and suddenly my influencer empire is collapsing faster than my ex's fake apology video. My sponsors are running for the hills. My manager is stress-eating donuts by the dozen.
The only solution? Find a man who has no clue who I am and convince him to be my fake boyfriend.
Enter Max Carter.
Holy mountains of muscle.
He's a bartender with a permanent scowl who looks at me like I'm everything wrong with society. He doesn't know I have two million followers hanging on my every post.
He just knows I'm the crazy woman offering him money to pretend he can't keep his hands off me.
What I never expected? Those staged kisses would turn into real flames. His growled warnings when other men look my way? They make me shiver in places that have no business shivering.
This was supposed to be fake. So why does it feel like I'm losing something real?
Max
I don't do relationships. I definitely don't do fake ones.
Then she walks into my bar.
Sunshine in human form, with curves that make my hands itch and a smile that's hiding secrets.
When my idiot friends bet me I can't fake-date her for thirty days without catching feelings, my pride kicks in before my brain does. Besides, how hard can it be to resist a woman who talks to her phone all day and pretends to be something she's not?
Turns out, impossible.
Because behind the perfect social media facade is a woman who makes me laugh, who challenges me, who sets my blood on fire with one touch.
Now I'm breaking every rule I made. Jealous when men look at her. Possessive when I pull her against me. And completely screwed when she discovers the stupid bet that started it all.
She walked away. Left me with nothing but regret and an empty bed.
But this grumpy bartender isn't giving up without a fight.
Because our love story? It was never fake. And I'll do whatever it takes to prove it.
A steamy, dual-POV romance featuring a sunshine influencer with secrets, the grumpy bartender who can't resist her, and a fake relationship that gets all too real. Complete with sizzling chemistry, heart-melting moments, and the happily ever after that will leave you swooning.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
172 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Emma Bray
135 books488 followersUSA Today bestselling author Emma Bray writes intense, steamy romances with possessive alpha males who’ll stop at nothing to claim the women they want. Emma’s instalove stories are filled with heat, passion and happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 24, 2025
The #FakeBoyfriend Bet: A Fake Relationship Romance by Emma Bray ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lena’s influencer empire is collapsing, so she makes a Hail Mary play: hire Max, the grumpy bartender with a permanent scowl, to be her fake boyfriend. What begins as a purely transactional arrangement—Lena needs a cover story, Max needs to win a bet—soon ignites into something neither expects. Beneath Lena’s polished social-media persona lies a vulnerable woman craving real connection, and Max’s tough exterior masks a fiercely protective heart. Their staged kisses and barroom banter crackle with electric tension, and when the truth of the bet comes out, trust shatters. But as they fight to salvage what’s grown between them, both must decide whether their “fake” relationship might just be the real thing. With dual perspectives that let you feel every pang of jealousy, every moment of longing, and a satisfyingly steamy happily-ever-after, The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is a witty, sexy romp that proves love can triumph over the best-laid schemes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lena’s influencer empire is collapsing, so she makes a Hail Mary play: hire Max, the grumpy bartender with a permanent scowl, to be her fake boyfriend. What begins as a purely transactional arrangement—Lena needs a cover story, Max needs to win a bet—soon ignites into something neither expects. Beneath Lena’s polished social-media persona lies a vulnerable woman craving real connection, and Max’s tough exterior masks a fiercely protective heart. Their staged kisses and barroom banter crackle with electric tension, and when the truth of the bet comes out, trust shatters. But as they fight to salvage what’s grown between them, both must decide whether their “fake” relationship might just be the real thing. With dual perspectives that let you feel every pang of jealousy, every moment of longing, and a satisfyingly steamy happily-ever-after, The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is a witty, sexy romp that proves love can triumph over the best-laid schemes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2025
Lena and Max . . .
When a break-up video provided by her ex to discredit her actually destroys Lena’s reputation as a popular influencer, she needs an immediate plan to stop the damage. She has sponsors and a manager who are depending on her success. So she finds someone who doesn’t know her or what she does for a living and offers to pay him to pretend to be her boyfriend. Max Carter, a bartender who wants nothing to do with her two million followers is willing to pretend a relationship since she is willing to pay him for the pretense. But to his surprise, the two of them are perfect together. The kisses feel real and his protective need to keep other guys away from her pulls the two of them even closer. However, his friends had been the ones to encourage him to go ahead and do this by challenging him with a bet that he wouldn’t be able to get through the month without feelings developing. Their bet gets him to give in, but it was all Lena that made him care so deeply for her. When Lena finds out this was all a silly bet and the relationship she thought they were in must actually be a fake, she walks out on him. She was everything he wanted in a woman, and those feelings were real. Is it really over now? Or is there some way he can convince her that he doesn’t want to lose her and that he really has fallen in love with her?
When a break-up video provided by her ex to discredit her actually destroys Lena’s reputation as a popular influencer, she needs an immediate plan to stop the damage. She has sponsors and a manager who are depending on her success. So she finds someone who doesn’t know her or what she does for a living and offers to pay him to pretend to be her boyfriend. Max Carter, a bartender who wants nothing to do with her two million followers is willing to pretend a relationship since she is willing to pay him for the pretense. But to his surprise, the two of them are perfect together. The kisses feel real and his protective need to keep other guys away from her pulls the two of them even closer. However, his friends had been the ones to encourage him to go ahead and do this by challenging him with a bet that he wouldn’t be able to get through the month without feelings developing. Their bet gets him to give in, but it was all Lena that made him care so deeply for her. When Lena finds out this was all a silly bet and the relationship she thought they were in must actually be a fake, she walks out on him. She was everything he wanted in a woman, and those feelings were real. Is it really over now? Or is there some way he can convince her that he doesn’t want to lose her and that he really has fallen in love with her?
April 29, 2025
A grumpy bartender, a desperate influencer, a bet and a fake relationship. What could possibly go wrong?
Lena
The internet is watching my career crash and burn in real-time.
One viral breakup video, and suddenly my influencer empire is collapsing faster than my ex's fake apology video. My sponsors are running for the hills. My manager is stress-eating donuts by the dozen.
The only solution? Find a man who has no clue who I am and convince him to be my fake boyfriend.
Enter Max Carter.
Holy mountains of muscle.
He's a bartender with a permanent scowl who looks at me like I'm everything wrong with society. He doesn't know I have two million followers hanging on my every post.
He just knows I'm the crazy woman offering him money to pretend he can't keep his hands off me.
What I never expected? Those staged kisses would turn into real flames. His growled warnings when other men look my way? They make me shiver in places that have no business shivering.
This was supposed to be fake. So why does it feel like I'm losing something real?
Max
I don't do relationships. I definitely don't do fake ones.
Then she walks into my bar.
Sunshine in human form, with curves that make my hands itch and a smile that's hiding secrets.
When my idiot friends bet me I can't fake-date her for thirty days without catching feelings, my pride kicks in before my brain does. Besides, how hard can it be to resist a woman who talks to her phone all day and pretends to be something she's not?
Turns out, impossible.
Because behind the perfect social media facade is a woman who makes me laugh, who challenges me, who sets my blood on fire with one touch.
Now I'm breaking every rule I made. Jealous when men look at her. Possessive when I pull her against me. And completely screwed when she discovers the stupid bet that started it all.
She walked away. Left me with nothing but regret and an empty bed.
But this grumpy bartender isn't giving up without a fight.
Because our love story? It was never fake. And I'll do whatever it takes to prove it.
This contemporary fake relationship rom com romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are an alpha, exuding power grumpy bartender, a sunshine influencer, captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the fake boyfriend bet, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, a fake relationship, heartfelt emotions, humor, drama, dual POV romance featuring a sunshine influencer with secrets and a grumpy bartender who can't resist her, a fake relationship that gets too real, sizzling chemistry, heart-melting moments, a happily ever after that will leave readers swooning, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers hearts and attention with the fake boyfriend relationship bet and an explicit romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly lustful and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lena
The internet is watching my career crash and burn in real-time.
One viral breakup video, and suddenly my influencer empire is collapsing faster than my ex's fake apology video. My sponsors are running for the hills. My manager is stress-eating donuts by the dozen.
The only solution? Find a man who has no clue who I am and convince him to be my fake boyfriend.
Enter Max Carter.
Holy mountains of muscle.
He's a bartender with a permanent scowl who looks at me like I'm everything wrong with society. He doesn't know I have two million followers hanging on my every post.
He just knows I'm the crazy woman offering him money to pretend he can't keep his hands off me.
What I never expected? Those staged kisses would turn into real flames. His growled warnings when other men look my way? They make me shiver in places that have no business shivering.
This was supposed to be fake. So why does it feel like I'm losing something real?
Max
I don't do relationships. I definitely don't do fake ones.
Then she walks into my bar.
Sunshine in human form, with curves that make my hands itch and a smile that's hiding secrets.
When my idiot friends bet me I can't fake-date her for thirty days without catching feelings, my pride kicks in before my brain does. Besides, how hard can it be to resist a woman who talks to her phone all day and pretends to be something she's not?
Turns out, impossible.
Because behind the perfect social media facade is a woman who makes me laugh, who challenges me, who sets my blood on fire with one touch.
Now I'm breaking every rule I made. Jealous when men look at her. Possessive when I pull her against me. And completely screwed when she discovers the stupid bet that started it all.
She walked away. Left me with nothing but regret and an empty bed.
But this grumpy bartender isn't giving up without a fight.
Because our love story? It was never fake. And I'll do whatever it takes to prove it.
This contemporary fake relationship rom com romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are an alpha, exuding power grumpy bartender, a sunshine influencer, captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the fake boyfriend bet, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, a fake relationship, heartfelt emotions, humor, drama, dual POV romance featuring a sunshine influencer with secrets and a grumpy bartender who can't resist her, a fake relationship that gets too real, sizzling chemistry, heart-melting moments, a happily ever after that will leave readers swooning, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers hearts and attention with the fake boyfriend relationship bet and an explicit romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly lustful and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2025
I'm so hesitant to throw out plagiarism accusations but I've literally read everything that Bray has published under her name and was so excited to read something that was a full length story to catch myself surprised at the completely different writing style/ narrative style...I'm so confused.
The one thing Emma Bray loves more than anything is a DOUBLE STANDARD. First of all Emma Bray is a bit of a misogynist through and through. All of her heroines must be virgins to push her purity culture agenda and all of her heroes have to be former MANWHORES who sampled TONS of pussy and played the field but become crazy obsessed with the h's virginity. The switch up is CRAZY.
Both the H and h seem so LUKEWARM about each other and the fade to black sex scenes?? Girl... I'm not sure you wrote this.
There's just no sense that these two even like each other and their both SO UNLIKEABLE as people on their own. Both are chickens and just keep being so disrespectful to each other only to claim that it's because they're afraid to be hurt. Like HUH?
Both actually GIVE UP on the relationship at one point like WHAT????
H is afraid and tucks tail and runs. The h is extremely unlikable and manipulative like take some responsibility for how fucked up you treat people. I say this as a proud misandrist, DON'T MAKE ME DEFEND A MAN bc your actions as a person are so toxic and manipulative. 🙄
All of it is so weird, the writing, the storyline, and the characters.
I smell plagiarism or at the very least skimming and stealing from a wattpad author bc when TF does Emma Bray write fade-to-black scenes??? She's a ABSOLUTE SLUT for a play by play. I don't buy it. 🐟
Girl BE SO SERIOUS. You must think we're dumb. You don't just grow a whole new personality and writing style out of nowhere... 🤨
⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️
Fake dating
No virgins/ manwhores
OWD: Max's ex Sophie shows up and causes some trouble and correctly assumes that their quaint little relationship is for show. Lena shuts her down with Max by her side.
No OMD/Sharing/Cheating
Half way break up bc of a bet that the H participates in
If I'm wrong I'll publicly take an L, but I bet my left tit this is not her writing.
The one thing Emma Bray loves more than anything is a DOUBLE STANDARD. First of all Emma Bray is a bit of a misogynist through and through. All of her heroines must be virgins to push her purity culture agenda and all of her heroes have to be former MANWHORES who sampled TONS of pussy and played the field but become crazy obsessed with the h's virginity. The switch up is CRAZY.
Both the H and h seem so LUKEWARM about each other and the fade to black sex scenes?? Girl... I'm not sure you wrote this.
There's just no sense that these two even like each other and their both SO UNLIKEABLE as people on their own. Both are chickens and just keep being so disrespectful to each other only to claim that it's because they're afraid to be hurt. Like HUH?
Both actually GIVE UP on the relationship at one point like WHAT????
H is afraid and tucks tail and runs. The h is extremely unlikable and manipulative like take some responsibility for how fucked up you treat people. I say this as a proud misandrist, DON'T MAKE ME DEFEND A MAN bc your actions as a person are so toxic and manipulative. 🙄
All of it is so weird, the writing, the storyline, and the characters.
I smell plagiarism or at the very least skimming and stealing from a wattpad author bc when TF does Emma Bray write fade-to-black scenes??? She's a ABSOLUTE SLUT for a play by play. I don't buy it. 🐟
"There's no performance now, no calculated moves or camera-ready angles. Just the raw, honest need between two people who've been denying their attraction for too long. He kisses his way down my body with an attention to detail that makes me arch against him, my fingers clutching the sheets as his mouth and hands find places that make me gasp his name.
When he finally enters me, the sensation is overwhelming—not just physically, but emotionally. His forehead presses against mine, our breaths mingling as we find a rhythm together. His eyes never leave mine, a connection more intimate than the physical one joining us."
Girl BE SO SERIOUS. You must think we're dumb. You don't just grow a whole new personality and writing style out of nowhere... 🤨
⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️
Fake dating
No virgins/ manwhores
OWD: Max's ex Sophie shows up and causes some trouble and correctly assumes that their quaint little relationship is for show. Lena shuts her down with Max by her side.
No OMD/Sharing/Cheating
Half way break up bc of a bet that the H participates in
If I'm wrong I'll publicly take an L, but I bet my left tit this is not her writing.
May 25, 2025
How an influencer turns it around . Turns her most famous dressing down, well her ex letting her down,causing her to frown . Of a sudden the answer is clear when she sees Max Donovan as he attacks the snacks and pours the drink as she does think, peruse a while.Then bingo! There’s the smile we all know and love she thinks as she orders more than drinks. Fake boyfriend material? Not half ! He’s buff ,sure he’ll be up for a laugh … Aw look at his smile ,it’s perfect cheesy crocodile . It all came about because a viral break up video came out . Suddenly her influencer empire is no longer afire . Might as well be on a funeral pyre. And her ex? Well star performance for the best actor as his fake apology aired! Her manager stress eating donuts…Oh nuts! Oh she cares! About herself as her career nosedives as well. With two million followers ,it’s not child’s play this influencer lark. It’s huge, she needs a plan and this Max ,he’s the man to pull her out of this slump after she got dumped. Lena Carter thinks he’s the answer , her private influence dancer. Can she sell it ,this fake dating thing? He thinks she funny and just a honey who has offered him money to pretend and shower her with kisses. Well he’s egged on so double bubble. This could be trouble . He has to stay the distance for thirty days ,that’s the bet his friends made. Only thing is as far as his friends go. He can’t catch any feelings , none at all. Just one thing though it’s impossible to not fall hard. The Lena behind the camera ,the one not on display with those curves just took his heart away . He’s gone ,it’s done . The guys will poke fun when this is all done . And that makes him glum ,but not because of his friends but it spells the end of their time together. Just when he thought he could do this forever . Be her man for the duration and not an occupation . A hired hunk . This was brilliantly written . Smitten? Oh yes . So perfectly sublime. Great storyline.
April 20, 2025
Emma Bray's The #FakeBoyfriend Bet delivers a lighthearted and engaging fake-dating romance that blends humor, emotional growth, and modern social media dynamics. The story follows Lena, an influencer reeling from a public breakup, who convinces Max, a grumpy bartender, to pose as her boyfriend. Their arrangement, initially a means to salvage Lena's online reputation, evolves as genuine feelings emerge, complicating their ruse.
Bray's writing shines in crafting witty banter and situational comedy, making Lena and Max's interactions both entertaining and heartfelt. The narrative explores themes of vulnerability and authenticity, particularly as Lena navigates the pressures of her online persona versus her real-life desires. Max's evolution from a reluctant participant to a supportive partner adds depth to his character, enhancing the story's emotional resonance.
However, the romance's development may feel somewhat restrained, with limited exploration of the characters' deeper emotional landscapes. While the chemistry between Lena and Max is evident, some readers might find the progression of their relationship lacking in intensity. Additionally, the resolution of conflicts, particularly those involving Lena's ex-boyfriend, could benefit from more nuanced handling to fully satisfy the narrative arc.
Overall, The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is a charming read that offers a fresh take on the fake-dating trope, infused with contemporary issues and relatable characters. It's a delightful choice for readers seeking a romantic comedy that balances levity with moments of genuine connection.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bray's writing shines in crafting witty banter and situational comedy, making Lena and Max's interactions both entertaining and heartfelt. The narrative explores themes of vulnerability and authenticity, particularly as Lena navigates the pressures of her online persona versus her real-life desires. Max's evolution from a reluctant participant to a supportive partner adds depth to his character, enhancing the story's emotional resonance.
However, the romance's development may feel somewhat restrained, with limited exploration of the characters' deeper emotional landscapes. While the chemistry between Lena and Max is evident, some readers might find the progression of their relationship lacking in intensity. Additionally, the resolution of conflicts, particularly those involving Lena's ex-boyfriend, could benefit from more nuanced handling to fully satisfy the narrative arc.
Overall, The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is a charming read that offers a fresh take on the fake-dating trope, infused with contemporary issues and relatable characters. It's a delightful choice for readers seeking a romantic comedy that balances levity with moments of genuine connection.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2025
I believe this is the first full length novel by this author but it’s the first in her Fauxmance Files series. It features Lena, a social media influencer whose career is ruined thanks to a viral breakup video by her ex-boyfriend and Max, a grumpy bartender who’s secretly a sweetheart.
A career in the toilet, fake boyfriend and disaster-in-the-making bet are the backdrop for this sweet and steamy hot mess romance. Seriously, how either MC thought they could pull off this kind of stunt and walk away unscathed is beyond me, it was almost certain to fail and fail it did… mostly.
I love a good fake boyfriend romance! As any good romance reader can attest, you mention “fake” anything and you may as well give in right then because it’s a certainty that it’s gonna end up coming true. And as if THAT wasn’t enough to tempt fate, we have a bet! (Face palm) Any time a bet is involved, it ALWAYS gets revealed, if they were readers they would know this!
This was such a good book!! Sweet and spicy, yes, but also aggravating and awww inducing…everything I love about a good romance. This is a must read, grab it today! 5 stars!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A career in the toilet, fake boyfriend and disaster-in-the-making bet are the backdrop for this sweet and steamy hot mess romance. Seriously, how either MC thought they could pull off this kind of stunt and walk away unscathed is beyond me, it was almost certain to fail and fail it did… mostly.
I love a good fake boyfriend romance! As any good romance reader can attest, you mention “fake” anything and you may as well give in right then because it’s a certainty that it’s gonna end up coming true. And as if THAT wasn’t enough to tempt fate, we have a bet! (Face palm) Any time a bet is involved, it ALWAYS gets revealed, if they were readers they would know this!
This was such a good book!! Sweet and spicy, yes, but also aggravating and awww inducing…everything I love about a good romance. This is a must read, grab it today! 5 stars!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2025
Nothing fake about it by MeemsAngel82
This is definitely something else! This I believe is the longest Emma book and I honestly think it's going to be one of her most popular works. This wasn't an insta love story first off. This is a full read with emotions and a plot that is modern and really tells how the world is these days in comparison to a world before infuencers.
She needed her image repaired. He was intrigued by her.
And the chemistry was before the partnership was mentioned. So nice touch. Their feelings were genuine and I understood the pressure felt on both sides when it came to the camera and real life. Her job I don't envy, it seems stressful but at least it finally brought her some real happiness. The two of them make quite the pairing. He is more down to earth and she seems like she wants more of that and less carefully curated images of "life". They had honest back and forth conversations and this felt real. Different and done well, these two deserve their every happiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is definitely something else! This I believe is the longest Emma book and I honestly think it's going to be one of her most popular works. This wasn't an insta love story first off. This is a full read with emotions and a plot that is modern and really tells how the world is these days in comparison to a world before infuencers.
She needed her image repaired. He was intrigued by her.
And the chemistry was before the partnership was mentioned. So nice touch. Their feelings were genuine and I understood the pressure felt on both sides when it came to the camera and real life. Her job I don't envy, it seems stressful but at least it finally brought her some real happiness. The two of them make quite the pairing. He is more down to earth and she seems like she wants more of that and less carefully curated images of "life". They had honest back and forth conversations and this felt real. Different and done well, these two deserve their every happiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2025
Fake vs Reality with social media
The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is the first book in the Fauxmance Files series. First lets say that this is a full novel for those that are used to reading short stories/novellas by the author. I have loved the author's previous books so was hoping that a full length novel by Emma would be the same, as sometimes things just don't work when an author changes their story-telling. I am more than happy to say that this book works and it was a pleasure to read. The story is about Lena, a social media influencer, and Max, a sexy and built bartender. It takes on the whole influencer world of social media with a real vs. fake story-line. When Lena's ex-boyfriend comes out on social media and says that their relationship had been staged by Lena her world sort of blows up. But she has a plan to get things back on track and prove things are not fake....by having another fake boyfriend. This is where Max comes into the picture and you know things are going to be a wild ride from there.
The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is the first book in the Fauxmance Files series. First lets say that this is a full novel for those that are used to reading short stories/novellas by the author. I have loved the author's previous books so was hoping that a full length novel by Emma would be the same, as sometimes things just don't work when an author changes their story-telling. I am more than happy to say that this book works and it was a pleasure to read. The story is about Lena, a social media influencer, and Max, a sexy and built bartender. It takes on the whole influencer world of social media with a real vs. fake story-line. When Lena's ex-boyfriend comes out on social media and says that their relationship had been staged by Lena her world sort of blows up. But she has a plan to get things back on track and prove things are not fake....by having another fake boyfriend. This is where Max comes into the picture and you know things are going to be a wild ride from there.
May 14, 2025
The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is Book 1 of the Fauxmance Files series. It's a steamy, opposites-attract, fake-dating, grumpy-sunshine girl gets her bartender rom com. This book was so very different from Emma's other books, but I loved it!! Lena is an influencer whose career has been tanked by her vindictive ex-boyfriend who released a very public break-up video. Max is a hunky, grumpy bartender. When Lena's media manager suggests she finds a new boyfriend for damage control, she asks Max to be her new fake boyfriend. He reluctantly agrees but is definitely attracted to her. As they navigate their fake relationship, real feelings develop, but Max is hiding a secret that started out innocently enough. Once Lena finds out, can she forgive him? These two were great together. They had insane chemistry, and the ending was happy, but it was quite the emotional roller-coaster getting there. I loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2025
When Lena’s ex-boyfriend calls her out for staging everything about their relationship, her social media influencer life is heavily affected. She devises a plan to hire a fake boyfriend. She goes to a bar that is not her normal setting and Max is her hunky bartender who agrees to her contract. I had a hard time with Lena because even with Max, she does exactly what she is accused of: staging everything! When Max makes a dumb decision with his friends, it comes back to haunt him and possibly ruin what he has with Lena.
I would have been more upset if the bet was that he was going to fall in love with her. But, it was the opposite, so I felt she overreacted to finding out about it. Even with this, I really enjoyed the story, and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I would have been more upset if the bet was that he was going to fall in love with her. But, it was the opposite, so I felt she overreacted to finding out about it. Even with this, I really enjoyed the story, and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2025
Lena Carter is an online influencer. Her ex-boyfriend, Cameron, made a video after their breakup calling Lena toxic. Tori is Lena’s manager. Tori suggests that Lena should have a fake boyfriend that could care less about followers on the internet. Lena goes to a bar called The Copper Key. She meets Max Donovan the bartender and bets him that he can’t convince people that they are a couple. He agrees to fake date Lena for a month, but she had to agree to let Max pick 25% of the dates. His buddies, Ryan and Drew, bet Max that he will catch real feelings before the 30 days is over.
On the surface, Lena and Max, could not be more different. It was fun following their adventure and seeing how much they ended up having in common.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
On the surface, Lena and Max, could not be more different. It was fun following their adventure and seeing how much they ended up having in common.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2025
Fake boyfriend romance.
Lena is a young influencer going through a complicated breakup. After taking advantage of Lena's popularity, her ex-boyfriend posted a video to make her lose her credibility, she finds herself looking for a fake boyfriend. She then meets Max, a bartender with whom she takes bets for a fake relationship.
Max is a former musician turned bartender. While working his evening shift, he meets the beautiful Lena and her fake girlfriend proposal. At first reluctant, he can't help but give in.
Will Max and Lena stay in a fake relationship, or will their time together change the terms of the bet despite their different backgrounds….
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lena is a young influencer going through a complicated breakup. After taking advantage of Lena's popularity, her ex-boyfriend posted a video to make her lose her credibility, she finds herself looking for a fake boyfriend. She then meets Max, a bartender with whom she takes bets for a fake relationship.
Max is a former musician turned bartender. While working his evening shift, he meets the beautiful Lena and her fake girlfriend proposal. At first reluctant, he can't help but give in.
Will Max and Lena stay in a fake relationship, or will their time together change the terms of the bet despite their different backgrounds….
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 6, 2025
The #FakeBoyfriend Bet is suspenseful and a page turning fake relationship romance. This book follows the adventures of Lena and Max. The characters are well developed and beautifully executed throughout the story. I enjoyed getting to know both Lena and Max as well as witnessing the feelings they have for one another grow stronger as their story progressed forward. This book is beautifully written, well balanced and perfectly executed by Emma Bray. She continues to showcase what a phenomenal author she is with each book I’ve read by her thus far. I can’t wait to see what her next book will be about. I would absolutely encourage other readers to checkout and give this book a read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2025
What’s Real?
Awesome. Lena is looking to save her career as an Influencer that her ex tried to destroy. This leads her to proposition Max to be her fake boyfriend. But, what happens when the lines blur between fake and real? Then, when everything is VERY real she accidentally learns of the bet his roommates made with him that he never told her about after professing their love for each other. She can’t trust him anymore and walks away from him. Max knows he made a mistake by not telling Lena sooner and now what he feared most has happened. He lost her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Awesome. Lena is looking to save her career as an Influencer that her ex tried to destroy. This leads her to proposition Max to be her fake boyfriend. But, what happens when the lines blur between fake and real? Then, when everything is VERY real she accidentally learns of the bet his roommates made with him that he never told her about after professing their love for each other. She can’t trust him anymore and walks away from him. Max knows he made a mistake by not telling Lena sooner and now what he feared most has happened. He lost her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 20, 2025
Funny quote - "Tell me about the worst date you've ever been on". I promot, angling for natural expressions. "That's easy. Art gallery opening 2019. The artist's medium was taxidermied animals dressed as celebrities. "
Tropes:
Fake relationship, stupid bet, social media influencer, music, opposites attract, angst, grumpy/sunshine, HEA romance.
Lena is a social media influencer.
Max is a bartender/muscian.
A huge thank you to Emma Bray and Booksprout for providing me with an eARC book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tropes:
Fake relationship, stupid bet, social media influencer, music, opposites attract, angst, grumpy/sunshine, HEA romance.
Lena is a social media influencer.
Max is a bartender/muscian.
A huge thank you to Emma Bray and Booksprout for providing me with an eARC book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 26, 2025
This romantic comedy between a gruff grumpy bartender and a social media influencer whose career is burning out. This book has relatable characters, a fake boyfriend experience that is all too real. When the realty of her being just a bet is revealed, she takes off. The problem was it was all real and now he has to get her back. Lighthearted humor and a lower level of intensity make this an easy read that keeps you waiting for their happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2025
“The #FakeBoyfriend Bet” by Emma Bray
-A grumpy bartender and a flustered influencer fake a relationship that quickly feels too real. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
Full of humor, drama, and emotional twists, it explores the blurred line between online personas and true feelings.
Though the miscommunication frustrated me a bit, the strong characters and heartfelt journey made it a satisfying read.
Lighthearted, spicy, and engaging — a story that keeps you smiling and hoping for their happily ever after.
-A grumpy bartender and a flustered influencer fake a relationship that quickly feels too real. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
Full of humor, drama, and emotional twists, it explores the blurred line between online personas and true feelings.
Though the miscommunication frustrated me a bit, the strong characters and heartfelt journey made it a satisfying read.
Lighthearted, spicy, and engaging — a story that keeps you smiling and hoping for their happily ever after.
April 28, 2025
This book is part of Fauxmance Files series. Lena is an influencer whose career is in jeopardy due to a negative video by her ex boyfriend. To try to save her career Lena needs to recoup and her plan is to find a fake boyfriend. Max is a bartender and can't turn down a bet especially by a beautiful influencer Lena. What started out as a business plan revolves into real feelings which can make things complicated. A longer story than normal from Emma Bray but read fast. Enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2025
What a delightfully fun romance read! Well written and captivating, this book has it all! Bray mixes the best balance of humor, emotions, growth and romance in this read. I love the social media aspect in this book especially as it dominates our world. Our main characters are Lena and Max. Lena, a social influencer convinces a grumpy bartender Max to pose as her boyfriend after a breakup. As you can imagine, things don't always go according to plan and the results are riveting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 26, 2025
I had to DNF (skim read it to the end). This book was just bad. As my first Emma Bray book, I will not be searching for more. How could I even get into when the characters are so unlikable? Maybe it's the fact that Lena, the heroine, was an Influencer and had the personality of a manipulator. I mean, if this book was meant to shine a light and show that influencers aren't terrible people...this wasn't it.
I had a little better time connecting to the hero Max but even that wasn't enough to make me like them as a couple. Just thoroughly unenjoyable read.
I had a little better time connecting to the hero Max but even that wasn't enough to make me like them as a couple. Just thoroughly unenjoyable read.
April 18, 2025
*3.5 stars*
I enjoyed it, but something felt a bit off for me. The story itself was well-written and funny, and the romance was pretty tame (almost closed door when it came to the spice), but I never really got into Lena and Max's relationship. Still, I'm definitely picking up the next book in the series since it features the second chance trope, which I love!
*ARC courtesy of Booksprout and Emma Bray*
I enjoyed it, but something felt a bit off for me. The story itself was well-written and funny, and the romance was pretty tame (almost closed door when it came to the spice), but I never really got into Lena and Max's relationship. Still, I'm definitely picking up the next book in the series since it features the second chance trope, which I love!
*ARC courtesy of Booksprout and Emma Bray*
April 21, 2025
Lena, may be an influencer, but she cannot control her or influence her own life. Finding herself in a public breakup she need to show people she has a great new relationship. The one person she looks to is Max. Trust me he is no sunshine. He is a bartender and is one grump. But fake starts to become real.
You will find yourself laughing out loud and shaking your head at the two of them. Enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
You will find yourself laughing out loud and shaking your head at the two of them. Enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2025
This was a wonderful fake to real romcom and I loved how so much of this story felt realistic. Lena is a social media influencer who's career is about to flop and Max is a grumpy bartender/musician. Max agrees to be her fake bf but, of course, things get feeling pretty real, soon enough ;) With a poor decision exposed, Max has to chase after Lena to prove she means everything to him. Definitely a fun and light hearted romance with hot chemistry and I'm looking forward to the next book :D
April 29, 2025
The Fake Boyfriend
Max and Lena
A contemporary romance about an influencer trying to rebrand herself and a bartender who is so much more. Beginning with a fake relationship that suddenly becomes real, Max and Lena have their ups and downs and trust issues. A cute story with a serious undertone to be enjoyed and even have a chuckle or two.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Max and Lena
A contemporary romance about an influencer trying to rebrand herself and a bartender who is so much more. Beginning with a fake relationship that suddenly becomes real, Max and Lena have their ups and downs and trust issues. A cute story with a serious undertone to be enjoyed and even have a chuckle or two.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2025
A witty and charming fake to real relationship story that I enjoyed. The FMC is a modern woman, a very popular influencer until she’s not. In order to save her career she must convince someone to be her fake boyfriend, enter Max a grumpy bartender and her polar opposite. This was humorous and charming with the perfect amount of heat. Hope to read more from this author soon as she always manages to capture my attention with her books.
April 30, 2025
Lena and Max have a very fast and somewhat quirky relationship. Lena needs to better her online persona and hires Max to be her fake boyfriend. What starts as fake soon turns out to be completely real in both accounts. However, Max made a bad decision in the beginning that would change their relationship.
The story is good and steamy with funny banter that will make you want to know more about them. I liked it.
The story is good and steamy with funny banter that will make you want to know more about them. I liked it.
May 4, 2025
The #FakeBoyfriend Bet: A Fake Relationship Romance story of Max and Lena..A grumpy bartender and a former musician and the woman who turned his life upside down, hopeless influencer who needs a positive narrative after her boyfriend dumped her..a bet and a fake relationship. turned more!! An interesting,emotional,wonderful and heartwarming..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2025
Beautiful story, with wonderful characters! Such a sweet and super steamy love story with humor. This story is enjoyable to read and characters written wonderfully. It was intense, brimming with twists, spicy in all the best ways. The story was nearly non-stop action (of every definition of that word), and I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. I loved this book and would definitely recommend it.
October 17, 2025
2 Stars
I was expecting a better story reading just the premise but I was disappointed. This left me with a underwhelmed feeling. I felt the main characters lacked chemistry and weren't really fleshed out, cause they both have an arc but I felt their way to get where they ended a bit rushed. Too much push and pull between them every damn chapter and it was exhausting. The side characters were just there and that's it. Meh.
I was expecting a better story reading just the premise but I was disappointed. This left me with a underwhelmed feeling. I felt the main characters lacked chemistry and weren't really fleshed out, cause they both have an arc but I felt their way to get where they ended a bit rushed. Too much push and pull between them every damn chapter and it was exhausting. The side characters were just there and that's it. Meh.
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