What do you think?
Rate this book
Stranger Things Have Happened
Can fake dating lead to real love? In Kasie West's next sexy adult romcom two people must decide where the lie ends and the chemistry begins.
Sutton knows she needs therapy. After all, she’s managing her newly opened restaurant remotely while taking care of her ungrateful sick mother. Plus, her boyfriend of two years just dumped her over the phone. But does therapy with a handsome stranger, who she has to pretend to be engaged to, in order to help her friend’s struggling relationship count? Probably not. Then why did she just agree to go? Because she’s had a few too many drinks? Because this stranger, Elijah, is smug and annoying and really, really handsome? Because she feels guilty that she abandoned her best friend, Tara, after high school and this might just make up for it? Whatever the reason, she has committed to this unhinged plan.
What the hell is Sutton doing?
Helping Tara prove a a good therapist can tell the difference between real love and fake love. That’s what she’s doing. But as they attend their sessions, Sutton and Elijah only seem to be proving one thing—the lines between pretend desire and real desire are very blurry. This true connection forming between them is threatening to unravel everything Sutton thought she knew about family, friendship, and her own heart.
Sutton knows she needs therapy. After all, she’s managing her newly opened restaurant remotely while taking care of her ungrateful sick mother. Plus, her boyfriend of two years just dumped her over the phone. But does therapy with a handsome stranger, who she has to pretend to be engaged to, in order to help her friend’s struggling relationship count? Probably not. Then why did she just agree to go? Because she’s had a few too many drinks? Because this stranger, Elijah, is smug and annoying and really, really handsome? Because she feels guilty that she abandoned her best friend, Tara, after high school and this might just make up for it? Whatever the reason, she has committed to this unhinged plan.
What the hell is Sutton doing?
Helping Tara prove a a good therapist can tell the difference between real love and fake love. That’s what she’s doing. But as they attend their sessions, Sutton and Elijah only seem to be proving one thing—the lines between pretend desire and real desire are very blurry. This true connection forming between them is threatening to unravel everything Sutton thought she knew about family, friendship, and her own heart.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2026
About the author
Kasie West
34 books19.4k followersI write YA and adult romance novels. I eat chocolate cinnamon bears. Sometimes I go crazy and do both at the same time. A few of my works are: SUNKISSED, PS I LIKE YOU, MOMENT OF TRUTH, WE MET LIKE THIS, and more. My agent is the talented and funny Michelle Wolfson.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,114 reviews
April 29, 2026
I’ve read a handful of Kasie West’s YA romances over the years, and they’ve reliably been my comfort reads—soft, swoony, low-angst escapes that cure the worst kind of day. This new adult romance wears that same Kasie West warmth but adds a fun, slightly spicier twist: a fake-engagement setup that collides with couples therapy, opposites-attract sparks, and the kind of banter that makes you grin into your book.
The hook is instant. Sutton—reeling from a brutal run of bad luck—has come home to care for her extra-grumpy mother after a car accident, all while trying to manage a fledgling restaurant from miles away and dodge the fallout from a nightmare review that keeps her up at night. Then, as a final cherry on the chaos sundae, her boyfriend of two years dumps her over the phone on the very day they’re supposed to meet. (Sir, at least respect the four-hour drive.) Nursing her wounds at the local bar, Sutton overhears two brothers debating the point of premarital counseling. The pretty brother, Michael, is sulking about his fiancée’s insistence on therapy; his sharper, flintier brother, Elijah, is backing him up. Sutton—bless her big, tired heart—calls them on it. Cue the small-town twist: Michael’s fiancée is Tara, Sutton’s former best friend from high school. Shots are taken, receipts are shown, and a ridiculous bet is born: Sutton and Elijah will pose as an engaged couple for three therapy sessions. If the therapist doesn’t clock the ruse, Sutton loses—and yes, karaoke humiliation is involved.
What neither of them anticipates is that therapy (hi, Dr. Franklin) will get under their skin in the best possible way. The exercises—and, frankly, the honesty—force Sutton to confront her trust issues (absent father, prickly mother who weaponizes “concern”), her tendency to white-knuckle everything alone, and her fear of failing her restaurant before it’s had a chance to breathe. Elijah, for all his sardonic edges, is patient, observant, and allergic to performative nonsense. Watching them go from sparring partners to teammates—through homework assignments, uncomfortable truths was amazing. Their chemistry is undeniably steamy, but what made me root for them is how they make each other braver: Sutton loosens her grip; Elijah lets someone in.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t mutter a few choice words at Sutton’s parents—her mother’s icy, ungrateful routine and her father’s spectacular absence made my blood pressure spike. (If yelling “therapy is not a threat” at fictional adults were a sport, I’d medal.) On the friend-side: I didn’t love Tara or Michael the way I loved Sutton and Elijah but the central duo is strong enough to dominate every scene, and the found-family moments in the town fill in the gaps.
Tropes and treats you’ll find here: fake engagement, opposites attract, forced proximity via counseling homework, a delicious grump/sunshine tilt (with the “sunshine” running on caffeine and sheer will), restaurant-owner stress realism, and therapy depicted as something constructive rather than a punchline. The dialogue is Kasie West at her best—quick, witty, and emotionally honest—and the pacing zips. Do a few beats resolve a bit tidily? Sure. Did I care? Not really. I was too busy rooting for Sutton to choose herself and for Elijah to keep showing up like a man who understands that grand gestures are great, but consistency is sexier.
Overall: a charming, funny, heart-warming read with a clever premise and two leads you’ll want to hug and then shove into a happily-ever-after. Kasie West didn’t disappoint—again.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/Saturday Books for sharing this heartfelt romance’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
medium.com
instagram
facebook
twitter
The hook is instant. Sutton—reeling from a brutal run of bad luck—has come home to care for her extra-grumpy mother after a car accident, all while trying to manage a fledgling restaurant from miles away and dodge the fallout from a nightmare review that keeps her up at night. Then, as a final cherry on the chaos sundae, her boyfriend of two years dumps her over the phone on the very day they’re supposed to meet. (Sir, at least respect the four-hour drive.) Nursing her wounds at the local bar, Sutton overhears two brothers debating the point of premarital counseling. The pretty brother, Michael, is sulking about his fiancée’s insistence on therapy; his sharper, flintier brother, Elijah, is backing him up. Sutton—bless her big, tired heart—calls them on it. Cue the small-town twist: Michael’s fiancée is Tara, Sutton’s former best friend from high school. Shots are taken, receipts are shown, and a ridiculous bet is born: Sutton and Elijah will pose as an engaged couple for three therapy sessions. If the therapist doesn’t clock the ruse, Sutton loses—and yes, karaoke humiliation is involved.
What neither of them anticipates is that therapy (hi, Dr. Franklin) will get under their skin in the best possible way. The exercises—and, frankly, the honesty—force Sutton to confront her trust issues (absent father, prickly mother who weaponizes “concern”), her tendency to white-knuckle everything alone, and her fear of failing her restaurant before it’s had a chance to breathe. Elijah, for all his sardonic edges, is patient, observant, and allergic to performative nonsense. Watching them go from sparring partners to teammates—through homework assignments, uncomfortable truths was amazing. Their chemistry is undeniably steamy, but what made me root for them is how they make each other braver: Sutton loosens her grip; Elijah lets someone in.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t mutter a few choice words at Sutton’s parents—her mother’s icy, ungrateful routine and her father’s spectacular absence made my blood pressure spike. (If yelling “therapy is not a threat” at fictional adults were a sport, I’d medal.) On the friend-side: I didn’t love Tara or Michael the way I loved Sutton and Elijah but the central duo is strong enough to dominate every scene, and the found-family moments in the town fill in the gaps.
Tropes and treats you’ll find here: fake engagement, opposites attract, forced proximity via counseling homework, a delicious grump/sunshine tilt (with the “sunshine” running on caffeine and sheer will), restaurant-owner stress realism, and therapy depicted as something constructive rather than a punchline. The dialogue is Kasie West at her best—quick, witty, and emotionally honest—and the pacing zips. Do a few beats resolve a bit tidily? Sure. Did I care? Not really. I was too busy rooting for Sutton to choose herself and for Elijah to keep showing up like a man who understands that grand gestures are great, but consistency is sexier.
Overall: a charming, funny, heart-warming read with a clever premise and two leads you’ll want to hug and then shove into a happily-ever-after. Kasie West didn’t disappoint—again.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/Saturday Books for sharing this heartfelt romance’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
medium.com
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️ 3.75 ⭐️ I have a very poor relationship with majority of contemporary romances (you have to admit, they all are kind of the same—formulaic, silly, whinny main characters and an over the top ‘problem’ that needs to be solved—don’t mind me I’m just a very particular critic) but this one did surprise me in the sweetest ways. I’m happy to report this book didn’t carry the goofiness but had characters that felt authentic, mature, well balanced and NO miscommunication (thank goodness for this!). It truly had growth and maturity, an understanding of one’s needs and a recognition of wrongs and correct adjustments. As rom-coms are all individualized, I found this one sweet with banter that was charming, funny and playful. The imperfections of all characters came across as realistic and the story just flowed so well. As someone who dislikes fake dating, this particular scenario worked really well. So what are the chances of two complete strangers falling for each other after a bet was set by their best friends? I’d say pretty high for Sutton and Elijah, considering that they are polar opposites and have similar parental issues.
Sutton is a woman who always internalizes her problems while trying to do it all and sometimes too much. She is a restaurant co-owner, struggling with a recent negative review while at the same time moving back home to take care of her not-so-nice mother who suffered a major car accident. Elijah is a people pleaser who offers sweet words but a total flirt who managed to charm me. He’s a former boxer with a passion for photography who is unable to pursue his dreams because of his father. They meet under interesting circumstances and are thrown into a fake relationship as a bet made by their (soon to be married) friends (Michael and Tara). She pretends to be a couple with Elijah while attending a premarital counselor to ‘strengthen their bond’ in order to prove to Michael that counseling and therapy works. What starts as a lie turns into chemistry. Can one really tell the difference between fake love vs real? At what point do things become complicated?
Kasie West nails the balance of emotional and serious, family issues and personal growth, romance and chemistry. She created two quite opposite characters, gave them solid backgrounds, realistic stories and set them on a path that lead them not only to fall for each other but to understand the root of their problems and better themselves before they entered into a real relationship. It’s hard for a contemporary romance to get praise from me but Stranger Things Have Happened had the equal amount of all the right elements that made it enjoyable for me. Sutton and Elijah’s family drama/issues depicted how families can have an emotional hold over their loved ones, causing emotional guilt and burnout. This not only negativity impacted their life but also lead Sutton and Elijah to develop unhealthy habits and behaviors. In Suttons case she never knew how to say enough is enough while Elijah never was one to take risks. I liked how, with therapy, they were able to see faults within their own characters and take a step forward towards change. Overall, their development was well done.
Sometimes you have to fake it till you make it. Am I right?
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martins Press and the author, Kasie West for sending me this eARC!
Publication date: April 14th, 2026
Sutton is a woman who always internalizes her problems while trying to do it all and sometimes too much. She is a restaurant co-owner, struggling with a recent negative review while at the same time moving back home to take care of her not-so-nice mother who suffered a major car accident. Elijah is a people pleaser who offers sweet words but a total flirt who managed to charm me. He’s a former boxer with a passion for photography who is unable to pursue his dreams because of his father. They meet under interesting circumstances and are thrown into a fake relationship as a bet made by their (soon to be married) friends (Michael and Tara). She pretends to be a couple with Elijah while attending a premarital counselor to ‘strengthen their bond’ in order to prove to Michael that counseling and therapy works. What starts as a lie turns into chemistry. Can one really tell the difference between fake love vs real? At what point do things become complicated?
Kasie West nails the balance of emotional and serious, family issues and personal growth, romance and chemistry. She created two quite opposite characters, gave them solid backgrounds, realistic stories and set them on a path that lead them not only to fall for each other but to understand the root of their problems and better themselves before they entered into a real relationship. It’s hard for a contemporary romance to get praise from me but Stranger Things Have Happened had the equal amount of all the right elements that made it enjoyable for me. Sutton and Elijah’s family drama/issues depicted how families can have an emotional hold over their loved ones, causing emotional guilt and burnout. This not only negativity impacted their life but also lead Sutton and Elijah to develop unhealthy habits and behaviors. In Suttons case she never knew how to say enough is enough while Elijah never was one to take risks. I liked how, with therapy, they were able to see faults within their own characters and take a step forward towards change. Overall, their development was well done.
Sometimes you have to fake it till you make it. Am I right?
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martins Press and the author, Kasie West for sending me this eARC!
Publication date: April 14th, 2026
April 6, 2026
Just gonna go ahead and load April arcs on deck 🤞🏻
Expected pub date 4/14/26
Expected pub date 4/14/26
March 27, 2026
This was such a sweet and lighthearted romance! This is a
fake dating, opposites attract romance novel. I really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters. I found this book to be emotional, hopeful and really funny! It gave me quite a few good laughs, while reading it. This novel came with some comedy in it, that I was not expecting. It came with lovable characters that were strongly developed throughout the story.
I found it to be well structured, easy to read and fun. The pacing started off really fast, slowed down in the middle, then it came with a fast ending. The setting fits the story perfectly. It also comes with some spicy scenes, that I was not expecting! I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a good, lighthearted romance comedy! It gave me the movie, “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” vibes! Overall, I give this a 3 out of 5 stars rating!
Thank you to NetGalley. Author Kasie West, St. Martin's Press and Saturday Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is set to be released on April 14, 2026!
fake dating, opposites attract romance novel. I really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters. I found this book to be emotional, hopeful and really funny! It gave me quite a few good laughs, while reading it. This novel came with some comedy in it, that I was not expecting. It came with lovable characters that were strongly developed throughout the story.
I found it to be well structured, easy to read and fun. The pacing started off really fast, slowed down in the middle, then it came with a fast ending. The setting fits the story perfectly. It also comes with some spicy scenes, that I was not expecting! I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a good, lighthearted romance comedy! It gave me the movie, “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” vibes! Overall, I give this a 3 out of 5 stars rating!
Thank you to NetGalley. Author Kasie West, St. Martin's Press and Saturday Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is set to be released on April 14, 2026!
April 15, 2026
I had such a great time reading this. Honestly had a hard time putting it down. It’s opposites-attract with fake dating, and the banter had me giggling. The book was sweet, comedic, and somewhat reflective. The characters were likable and had enough depth that the ending felt satisfying.
* I want to thank Netgalley, St. Martin's Press | Saturday Books and Kasie West for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
* I want to thank Netgalley, St. Martin's Press | Saturday Books and Kasie West for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 15, 2026
Stranger Things Have Happened by Kasie West
Contemporary romance.
Sutton Scott is remotely managing her newly opened restaurant while she’s traveled home to take care of her mother after a car accident. She juggles food orders, and wait staff in the late night hours while helping to bath and feed her mother in recovery. Her friend Tara, convinces Sutton she needs some downtime while home, and Sutton finds herself going to preliminary marriage counseling with Elijah because of a bet. She doesn’t know Elijah, but with sessions aimed at getting to know each other, they grow close as the weeks go by. Her restaurant isn’t in town. Does she want to fall in love? Or guard her heart?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Karissa Vacker who has a back catalogue in the hundreds. The book is a single POV from the heroine so while there are distinct voices for the hero and various secondary characters, the performance is mostly from Sutton. The recording is clear, the pacing consistent and in whole easy and engaging to listen to.
I enjoyed listening to this story at 1.7, which enables me to read a print copy at the same time.
Heartbreaking moments are included but overwhelmed by the fresh feeling of falling in love. Sutton and Elijah mesh with his lighthearted banter and joy along with her serious and busy life. Their romance is quirky and captivating.
A grand gesture and a feel good romance.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.
Contemporary romance.
Sutton Scott is remotely managing her newly opened restaurant while she’s traveled home to take care of her mother after a car accident. She juggles food orders, and wait staff in the late night hours while helping to bath and feed her mother in recovery. Her friend Tara, convinces Sutton she needs some downtime while home, and Sutton finds herself going to preliminary marriage counseling with Elijah because of a bet. She doesn’t know Elijah, but with sessions aimed at getting to know each other, they grow close as the weeks go by. Her restaurant isn’t in town. Does she want to fall in love? Or guard her heart?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Karissa Vacker who has a back catalogue in the hundreds. The book is a single POV from the heroine so while there are distinct voices for the hero and various secondary characters, the performance is mostly from Sutton. The recording is clear, the pacing consistent and in whole easy and engaging to listen to.
I enjoyed listening to this story at 1.7, which enables me to read a print copy at the same time.
Heartbreaking moments are included but overwhelmed by the fresh feeling of falling in love. Sutton and Elijah mesh with his lighthearted banter and joy along with her serious and busy life. Their romance is quirky and captivating.
A grand gesture and a feel good romance.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.
September 29, 2025
Another really fun adult book from Kasie West! More of a slow burn than her first one but great character development!
Doesn’t come out until next year but I think you’ll enjoy it if you read her last one We Met Like This.
Doesn’t come out until next year but I think you’ll enjoy it if you read her last one We Met Like This.
October 8, 2025
Sutton is back in her hometown because her mother was in a car accident and dealing with concussion symptoms. After being there only 2 weeks, her boyfriend is supposed to come to visit. But 5 minutes before he is due to arrive, he calls her to end their 2 year relationship. He says he isn't a priority for her, but instead work and her apartment. Sutton owns a restaurant at only 28 years old. She reconnects with her childhood best friend, who argues with her fiance about if they should attend therapy before getting married. They make a bet- if Sutton and his brother Elijah can pose as a couple for 4 therapy sessions and the therapist cannot tell they are not actually engaged, then he will go.
It's a fake dating/engaged scenario that doesn't make a lot of sense, but you know what? Fake dating scenarios never do. It is a fun trope that never happens in real life.
This is a lighthearted and well paced rom com, I particularly enjoyed the romance, but also the side stories. Sutton is struggling with being away from the restaurant and in how to balance management with leadership. It is amazing that she is able to own a restaurant in Los Angeles at only 28, but she is insecure about her reviews. Also, the way she cared for her mother, despite her mother being angry and critical was incredibly touching. Her mom, at times, was a frustrating character but over the course of the book I grew a fondness for her, or at least pity.
Elijah is a good guy, I can see why Sutton fell for him, although falling so fast after ending a 2 year relationship seemed like a detriment of her own character. I enjoyed Kasie West's first adult debut and although I was given a free e-ARC from Saturday Books and NetGalley, I have already pre-ordered this as a trophy. I think this is a story I will want to return to.
Overall, it is a fun romcom, but a little bit deeper and stronger character building. High recommend.
Book to be published April 14, 2026. This is my 394th review to NetGalley.
It's a fake dating/engaged scenario that doesn't make a lot of sense, but you know what? Fake dating scenarios never do. It is a fun trope that never happens in real life.
This is a lighthearted and well paced rom com, I particularly enjoyed the romance, but also the side stories. Sutton is struggling with being away from the restaurant and in how to balance management with leadership. It is amazing that she is able to own a restaurant in Los Angeles at only 28, but she is insecure about her reviews. Also, the way she cared for her mother, despite her mother being angry and critical was incredibly touching. Her mom, at times, was a frustrating character but over the course of the book I grew a fondness for her, or at least pity.
Elijah is a good guy, I can see why Sutton fell for him, although falling so fast after ending a 2 year relationship seemed like a detriment of her own character. I enjoyed Kasie West's first adult debut and although I was given a free e-ARC from Saturday Books and NetGalley, I have already pre-ordered this as a trophy. I think this is a story I will want to return to.
Overall, it is a fun romcom, but a little bit deeper and stronger character building. High recommend.
Book to be published April 14, 2026. This is my 394th review to NetGalley.
April 20, 2026
5 stars EVERY DAYYYY
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an ALC of this book in return for an honest and voluntary review - this book is now released and I highly recommend you listen or read it!
This is a book for the girls who struggle to let go and accept help from people - I see myself in our FMC Sutton potentially too much?? This book took out a chunk of my brain and put it onto pages which was both fun to read and terrifying! I also fear that if you put an MMC with daddy issues infront of my eyes I do become slightly in love with the book and thats exactly what happened here
The fake dating aspect of this book was done in a way I haven't read before and it was genuinely SO FUN - I found myself myself smiling and giggling at this book SOOO often it was actually insane
Like I dont think you get it... this book actually had me feeling like the Jennifer Coolidge meme where shes feeling herself LMFAO
The narrator of this book unironically had so much chemistry with herself it was a little crazy to me?? I think I need to go and listen to all of her work IMMEDIATELY
I read this book in like 3 hours total because i genuinely couldn't put it down - safe to say its going to be one i think about and miss for a WHILEEE
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an ALC of this book in return for an honest and voluntary review - this book is now released and I highly recommend you listen or read it!
This is a book for the girls who struggle to let go and accept help from people - I see myself in our FMC Sutton potentially too much?? This book took out a chunk of my brain and put it onto pages which was both fun to read and terrifying! I also fear that if you put an MMC with daddy issues infront of my eyes I do become slightly in love with the book and thats exactly what happened here
The fake dating aspect of this book was done in a way I haven't read before and it was genuinely SO FUN - I found myself myself smiling and giggling at this book SOOO often it was actually insane
Like I dont think you get it... this book actually had me feeling like the Jennifer Coolidge meme where shes feeling herself LMFAO
The narrator of this book unironically had so much chemistry with herself it was a little crazy to me?? I think I need to go and listen to all of her work IMMEDIATELY
I read this book in like 3 hours total because i genuinely couldn't put it down - safe to say its going to be one i think about and miss for a WHILEEE
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When I tell you I ate this up... I ate this up! The drama !!! I was addicted, so much was going on with Sutton, Elijah, Tara, Michael, Sutton's mom and dad, Rai. It was a great fill my cup up session.
First off if a man has to make a bet in order to get out of going to therapy, RUN. Cause it's really not that deep, and we are talking about 4 sessions, so how is that even an inconvenience?
Sutton is your typical Type A personality defense mechanism girl because her parents are complete wankers. I'm happy the bet made her realize she needed to go to therapy on her own to finally work on her own issues. Her mom and dad did a number on her, and in turn she really stunted her life relationships. Her character growth was the best I have seen in awhile for a standalone book.
Elijah .... boy toy, fling, daddy issues. Poor boy is called so many things and you know what he is !! Nice, caring, a little man stupid but he tries. And his gesture at the end, ug so good! May we all find a man who can treat us like Elijah and show us how to be the best we can.
I hope Sutton's dad falls into a hole.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice Level: 🌶️
Single 1st POV
No notes on the narration, Karissa did a wonderful job pitching her voice for different characters. As this was just one POV it made sense why there was only one narrator.
🎧 Single Narration 9h 15m
🎙️ Karissa Vacker
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Small Town Setting
Fake Fiancé Therapy Bet
Best Friends Fiancé's Brother
Banter
Family Drama
Parent Illness
Thank you to Macmillan Audio, and author Kasie West, for providing me with the ALC of “Stranger Things Have Happened”.
First off if a man has to make a bet in order to get out of going to therapy, RUN. Cause it's really not that deep, and we are talking about 4 sessions, so how is that even an inconvenience?
Sutton is your typical Type A personality defense mechanism girl because her parents are complete wankers. I'm happy the bet made her realize she needed to go to therapy on her own to finally work on her own issues. Her mom and dad did a number on her, and in turn she really stunted her life relationships. Her character growth was the best I have seen in awhile for a standalone book.
Elijah .... boy toy, fling, daddy issues. Poor boy is called so many things and you know what he is !! Nice, caring, a little man stupid but he tries. And his gesture at the end, ug so good! May we all find a man who can treat us like Elijah and show us how to be the best we can.
I hope Sutton's dad falls into a hole.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice Level: 🌶️
Single 1st POV
No notes on the narration, Karissa did a wonderful job pitching her voice for different characters. As this was just one POV it made sense why there was only one narrator.
🎧 Single Narration 9h 15m
🎙️ Karissa Vacker
Narration Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Small Town Setting
Fake Fiancé Therapy Bet
Best Friends Fiancé's Brother
Banter
Family Drama
Parent Illness
Thank you to Macmillan Audio, and author Kasie West, for providing me with the ALC of “Stranger Things Have Happened”.
April 15, 2026
4.25 stars. I loved Kasie West’s “We Met Like This,” and was thrilled to be approved for this advance review copy. Much thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press! Katie West’s latest romance with tropes of fake-dating, forced proximity, and opposites attract is classic rom-com, but with a twist, so fun! I loved both Sutton + Elijah and rooted for them all the way. This was romantic, cute, messy (mama drama), funny, spicy, and the chemistry was fire! The storyline is quite unique in that Sutton tries to prove her childhood friend’s fiancé wrong, and teams up with Elijah to trick a therapist.. yes trick.. in the therapists office.. by fake-dating one another. What a fresh and unusual concept! I’m really enjoying Kasie West’s expanse into contemporary adult romance and can’t wait to see what she writes next. Do recommend. ❥ Pub. 4/14/26
April 2, 2026
The strangers seeing a couples therapist is a cute easy going plot, but the only character I liked was the MMC… and maybe the FMC in the last 1/3.
I wasn’t a fan of the FMC because she was “boring” and then it was a point of the whole book that she was self conscious and conceded about being a control freak. Maybe it’s because I have a lot of the same tendencies, but it was aggravating to hear her worry about that so much.
And all of the other characters were irritating. I don’t think I’ve read a book with a more frustrating and rude mother. I really wish they would’ve had a hard conversation earlier in the story.
The romance element was good though, and I liked the flirting and building of something potential. I listened to this and the narrator was enjoyable. It was an easy listen!
Thanks to Macmillan for the ALC!
I wasn’t a fan of the FMC because she was “boring” and then it was a point of the whole book that she was self conscious and conceded about being a control freak. Maybe it’s because I have a lot of the same tendencies, but it was aggravating to hear her worry about that so much.
And all of the other characters were irritating. I don’t think I’ve read a book with a more frustrating and rude mother. I really wish they would’ve had a hard conversation earlier in the story.
The romance element was good though, and I liked the flirting and building of something potential. I listened to this and the narrator was enjoyable. It was an easy listen!
Thanks to Macmillan for the ALC!
April 16, 2026
OMG! L-O-V-E this book! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This was so sweet and sexy! Shout out to Sutton and Elijah — swoon worthy couple beyond measure.
Kasie West needs to keep writing for Adults. This is a freaking rock star debut! 🥂
Thank you St. Martin’s Press and Goodreads for the giveaway 😁❤️
This was so sweet and sexy! Shout out to Sutton and Elijah — swoon worthy couple beyond measure.
Kasie West needs to keep writing for Adults. This is a freaking rock star debut! 🥂
Thank you St. Martin’s Press and Goodreads for the giveaway 😁❤️
October 27, 2025
Check out my full thoughts on this book and more here: booktube reviews :)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review: Before I discuss why I gave this two stars, let's talk about the things I enjoyed. I enjoyed the MC, she was a fully flushed out character who had life obstacles and a lot to deal with on top of this new found romance. The premise was really unique, a good thought experiment and though you have to suspend a large amount of disbelief I honestly enjoyed that because I don't think books always have to be believable but can at times just be fun thought experiments. I was particularly interested in this as I am a therapist and also really enjoy doing couples therapy. I will take a far fetched though experiment over a dull but believable plotline. I also thought the nature of the premise made for really interesting and funny banter between the two MC's.
So why the two stars. The ending made me so frustrated for reasons I can't say. But it's been a long time since I felt this angry, if ever, at an ending. We really didn't have to explain things this way, it could have been literally anything else. I feel bad giving a book two stars but for me personally this just really didn't work.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review: Before I discuss why I gave this two stars, let's talk about the things I enjoyed. I enjoyed the MC, she was a fully flushed out character who had life obstacles and a lot to deal with on top of this new found romance. The premise was really unique, a good thought experiment and though you have to suspend a large amount of disbelief I honestly enjoyed that because I don't think books always have to be believable but can at times just be fun thought experiments. I was particularly interested in this as I am a therapist and also really enjoy doing couples therapy. I will take a far fetched though experiment over a dull but believable plotline. I also thought the nature of the premise made for really interesting and funny banter between the two MC's.
So why the two stars. The ending made me so frustrated for reasons I can't say. But it's been a long time since I felt this angry, if ever, at an ending. We really didn't have to explain things this way, it could have been literally anything else. I feel bad giving a book two stars but for me personally this just really didn't work.
March 22, 2026
(4.5☆) Merci à Netgalley pour une copie numérique de ce livre!!
J'ai tellement plus aimé que je pensais! J'adore la trope fake dating et j'ai trouvé ça vraiment original comment elle a été amenée dans ce livre. J'ai aussi beaucoup aimé les personnages et j'ai aimé seulement avoir le point de vue à la fille.
J'ai tellement plus aimé que je pensais! J'adore la trope fake dating et j'ai trouvé ça vraiment original comment elle a été amenée dans ce livre. J'ai aussi beaucoup aimé les personnages et j'ai aimé seulement avoir le point de vue à la fille.
March 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars
Where do I even start??
First of all, I work around middle schoolers for 7 hours a day, 3-5 days a week. Never in my life, have I ever went in and not seen a girl carrying around reading and being obsessed with a Kasie West book. They LOVE them. So when I saw she was coming out with and ADULT contemporary romance this year, I knew I had to get my hands on it.
It. Did. Not. Disappoint.
I didn’t even know contemporary romances could invoke such intense reactions from me? Like? Since when do I smile and giggle at books? Literally never..this one did it though, and I’m truly shocked.
I love the characters, it’s perfectly complex and funny and just RICH so freaking packed full of everything I love. I truly could not find a missing piece of anything.
No complaints. No notes. I genuinely LOVED this book. So so so good in the moment!
A huge thanks to Kasie West, St Martin’s Press and NetGalley for this advanced e-book copy.
Where do I even start??
First of all, I work around middle schoolers for 7 hours a day, 3-5 days a week. Never in my life, have I ever went in and not seen a girl carrying around reading and being obsessed with a Kasie West book. They LOVE them. So when I saw she was coming out with and ADULT contemporary romance this year, I knew I had to get my hands on it.
It. Did. Not. Disappoint.
I didn’t even know contemporary romances could invoke such intense reactions from me? Like? Since when do I smile and giggle at books? Literally never..this one did it though, and I’m truly shocked.
I love the characters, it’s perfectly complex and funny and just RICH so freaking packed full of everything I love. I truly could not find a missing piece of anything.
No complaints. No notes. I genuinely LOVED this book. So so so good in the moment!
A huge thanks to Kasie West, St Martin’s Press and NetGalley for this advanced e-book copy.
April 14, 2026
I struggled with this one a little more than I expected. The plot setup felt so convoluted and not at all authentic or real. We were just kind of thrust into is and I wasn't a fan of it at all. Then, there really was no organic chemistry between the two. It felt like a begrudging friendship more than anything, and everything past that felt so forced.
And the mother. Don't even get me started.
There was a part of the ending I liked that had to do with a side character, the rest I could take or leave in the end.
And the mother. Don't even get me started.
There was a part of the ending I liked that had to do with a side character, the rest I could take or leave in the end.
November 2, 2025
First I would like to extend a big thank you to St. Martins Press, NetGalley, and the author for the advanced copy of this book. My thoughts are my own.
I absolutely loved We Met Like This, so when I saw that she had another book coming out I was beyond excited. The author has a way of drawing you into the story and making you feel like you are right there alongside the characters. She writes in vivid detail and creates such likable characters that you can’t help but get swept away. And this book was absolutely no exception!
This book instantly drew me in- sure, it’s a rom-com but it had much more depth and emotion than I was expecting. Both main characters are layered and have their own unique background and obstacles to overcome. I will admit, I wasn’t a big fan of some of the side characters- or even the main characters emotionally abusive mother… but I won’t get into that now. The fake setup meets couples therapy trope was a new one for me and it was really interesting to see it play out. There’s also some “forced proximity”, “opposites attract” and “grumpy/sunshine” in there and who doesn’t love those tropes as well?
Overall, this was such a cute, fun and easy read that I definitely recommend!
I absolutely loved We Met Like This, so when I saw that she had another book coming out I was beyond excited. The author has a way of drawing you into the story and making you feel like you are right there alongside the characters. She writes in vivid detail and creates such likable characters that you can’t help but get swept away. And this book was absolutely no exception!
This book instantly drew me in- sure, it’s a rom-com but it had much more depth and emotion than I was expecting. Both main characters are layered and have their own unique background and obstacles to overcome. I will admit, I wasn’t a big fan of some of the side characters- or even the main characters emotionally abusive mother… but I won’t get into that now. The fake setup meets couples therapy trope was a new one for me and it was really interesting to see it play out. There’s also some “forced proximity”, “opposites attract” and “grumpy/sunshine” in there and who doesn’t love those tropes as well?
Overall, this was such a cute, fun and easy read that I definitely recommend!
March 29, 2026
Kasie West delivers another delightful read with Stranger Things Have Happened, a story that’s equal parts engaging and genuinely hilarious. The plot moves at a great pace, keeping you hooked while balancing humor and heartfelt moments in a way that feels effortless.
Sutton and Elijah are incredibly relatable characters, and their journey together is both charming and memorable. Their dynamic feels authentic, making it easy to get invested in their story from beginning to end.
While the book itself easily earns high praise, the audiobook experience is elevated even further by narrator Karissa Vacker, who absolutely shines. She brings each character to life with distinct personality and emotion, making the story even more immersive and enjoyable.
Sutton and Elijah are incredibly relatable characters, and their journey together is both charming and memorable. Their dynamic feels authentic, making it easy to get invested in their story from beginning to end.
While the book itself easily earns high praise, the audiobook experience is elevated even further by narrator Karissa Vacker, who absolutely shines. She brings each character to life with distinct personality and emotion, making the story even more immersive and enjoyable.
April 12, 2026
I did an immersive read and thought the audio was fantastic. I breezed right through it. Karissa Vacker’s narration really brought the story to life and added so much personality to the characters.
This book is low stakes, easy fun. Sutton and Elijah were instantly likable and I couldn't help but root for them. Their dynamic was playful and full of banter. The whole fake dating/therapy setup is slightly unhinged, but it worked and made the story feel fresh and entertaining.
Sutton felt very real to me. She’s a perfectionist and an overthinker, carrying a lot more than she lets on… cough cough sounds like somebody I know (it’s me, I’m somebody) 😂 I also appreciated that there was a layer of emotional depth. Sutton experienced family stress, guilt and struggled to hold everything together which gave the story a bit more weight.
Stranger Things Have Happened is totally bingeable, light and flirty. Read if you like fake dating, banter and a touch of chaos.
This book is low stakes, easy fun. Sutton and Elijah were instantly likable and I couldn't help but root for them. Their dynamic was playful and full of banter. The whole fake dating/therapy setup is slightly unhinged, but it worked and made the story feel fresh and entertaining.
Sutton felt very real to me. She’s a perfectionist and an overthinker, carrying a lot more than she lets on… cough cough sounds like somebody I know (it’s me, I’m somebody) 😂 I also appreciated that there was a layer of emotional depth. Sutton experienced family stress, guilt and struggled to hold everything together which gave the story a bit more weight.
Stranger Things Have Happened is totally bingeable, light and flirty. Read if you like fake dating, banter and a touch of chaos.
April 26, 2026
This is one of those books that I’m so glad I went into blind. I saw an author post about it and when it was available to request through St Martins press and Macmillan audio, I pulled the trigger and I’m so glad I did.
If you don’t want to go in blind, here are some of my thoughts:
I LOVED the set up for the plot! 2 strangers in couples therapy?? So unique and honestly hilarious. I also loved how Eli and Sutton balanced each other out and THEIR BANTER was top tier. I think the way Eli took care of Sutton and truly cared for her was lovely and I want him to have the world.
AND THE AUDIO:
Narrated by Karissa Vacker and she did an excellent job. Her male voice was great and her voices were distinctive for all the characters and easy to keep up with changes in dialogue. If I read again it will most likely be by audio.
Overall, I would recommend this one wholeheartedly to my romance loving friends!
About 3 open door scenes.
Thank you to St. Martins Press, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the eArc and Alc.
If you don’t want to go in blind, here are some of my thoughts:
I LOVED the set up for the plot! 2 strangers in couples therapy?? So unique and honestly hilarious. I also loved how Eli and Sutton balanced each other out and THEIR BANTER was top tier. I think the way Eli took care of Sutton and truly cared for her was lovely and I want him to have the world.
AND THE AUDIO:
Narrated by Karissa Vacker and she did an excellent job. Her male voice was great and her voices were distinctive for all the characters and easy to keep up with changes in dialogue. If I read again it will most likely be by audio.
Overall, I would recommend this one wholeheartedly to my romance loving friends!
About 3 open door scenes.
Thank you to St. Martins Press, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the eArc and Alc.
April 28, 2026
The connection between the 2 main characters fell flat for me. I had a hard time believing the chemistry because, it felt surface level. When they kissed for the first time, I truthfully sat back and was like…what compelled this moment to happen? There was no real spark that made me want to root for these characters.
Honestly, I really didn’t like the fact that the MMC’s brother was a walking red flag from the jump. It just left a bad taste from the start, so I kind of lost hope right there. I did end up liking the MMC a little more as the story went on, but he just really wasn’t my cup of tea.
The spicy scenes in the book were kind of just repetitive filler. I thought they felt forced and clunky. I ended up fast forwarding through them because it was happening too often. Plus, those were really the only scenes that resembled intimacy between the characters, which I also didn’t like. I wanted more tender and sweet moments, but those felt far and between.
I listened to this book on audio and did enjoy the narrator. To be honest I think the audiobook is what helped me to finish this.
I ended this book wanting more than we got. Nothing really stood out to me or redeemed how I felt from the beginning. The characters were fairly bland and predictable. I just couldn’t enjoy this as much as I was hoping to.
***Thank you so much to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press/Saturday Book for the eARC and to Macmillan Audio for the ALC both in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, I really didn’t like the fact that the MMC’s brother was a walking red flag from the jump. It just left a bad taste from the start, so I kind of lost hope right there. I did end up liking the MMC a little more as the story went on, but he just really wasn’t my cup of tea.
The spicy scenes in the book were kind of just repetitive filler. I thought they felt forced and clunky. I ended up fast forwarding through them because it was happening too often. Plus, those were really the only scenes that resembled intimacy between the characters, which I also didn’t like. I wanted more tender and sweet moments, but those felt far and between.
I listened to this book on audio and did enjoy the narrator. To be honest I think the audiobook is what helped me to finish this.
I ended this book wanting more than we got. Nothing really stood out to me or redeemed how I felt from the beginning. The characters were fairly bland and predictable. I just couldn’t enjoy this as much as I was hoping to.
***Thank you so much to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press/Saturday Book for the eARC and to Macmillan Audio for the ALC both in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2026
Stranger Things Have Happened by Kasie West is a light, flirty romcom that fully embraces a slightly over the top premise and turns it into an entertaining, feel good read. The story follows Sutton, who finds herself caught up in a fake engagement with a stranger in order to participate in couples therapy sessions—yes, it’s a bit chaotic, but if you lean into the setup, it becomes part of the charm. The tone is low angst and fast paced, with witty banter and playful tension carrying the story from start to finish.
What grounds the story is Sutton herself. Beneath the humor and absurdity, she’s dealing with family strain, emotional burnout, and lingering guilt over a fractured friendship, which adds a layer of heart to the narrative. Elijah proves to be the perfect counterpart, he’s confident, slightly smug, but ultimately warm and steady, and their chemistry is immediate and engaging. Together, they strike a balance between humor and sincerity that makes the romance feel both fun and satisfying. This is the kind of book you pick up when you want something easy, swoony, and genuinely enjoyable.
December 1, 2025
This had a little bit of a rough start to me, but as I kept reading, I grew to enjoy the book more and more. Yes, it was a but predictable, but I love Kasie West’s writing. I still love her YA stuff a little more than the adult books, but this is showing a lot of improvement from the previous one. If you like books with strong character development, then this one is for you. This focused a lot of the characters and going to therapy to discover what their personal issues were, especially in a relationship, and opening up more. The plot was completely different than any other book I read with the main characters starting off as complete strangers and pretending to be engaged to go to couples therapy because of a bet. Overall, I enjoyed this one, but didn’t completely love it.
I received this book for free via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
I received this book for free via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
September 20, 2025
Stranger Things Have Happened is a beautiful contemporary romance story that I believe will be relatable to a lot of readers.
In the book we follow Sutton as she navigates through her pretty bland and boring life. A life filled with work, and more work. She tends to neglect all things that could potentially make her truly happy. She also ignores things from her past that may have an impact on the way she is today.
When her mom gets into an accident, she returns home to Clovis to aide in her mother’s rehabilitation. This decision causes some abrupt changes in her life and the story begins with meeting Elijah.
In a strange, fated, twisted storyline both Sutton and Elijah are forced together to complete a task to help friends, all while slowly learning about each other and recognizing their own down falls that are preventing them from moving into a brighter future.
This story includes a slow burn romance, forced proximity, strangers to lovers, daddy issues and tons of comical moments.
The characters and their back stories are very relatable on many levels. The dialogue was easy to follow and the story itself transitioned nicely throughout the pages.
There are some heated, detailed scenes within the book but the majority of the book is plot.
If you like contemporary romance, with realistic scenarios, timelines and issues, then this may be the book for you.
Thank you to MacMillan Publishers for this ARC. Releases April 14 2026.
In the book we follow Sutton as she navigates through her pretty bland and boring life. A life filled with work, and more work. She tends to neglect all things that could potentially make her truly happy. She also ignores things from her past that may have an impact on the way she is today.
When her mom gets into an accident, she returns home to Clovis to aide in her mother’s rehabilitation. This decision causes some abrupt changes in her life and the story begins with meeting Elijah.
In a strange, fated, twisted storyline both Sutton and Elijah are forced together to complete a task to help friends, all while slowly learning about each other and recognizing their own down falls that are preventing them from moving into a brighter future.
This story includes a slow burn romance, forced proximity, strangers to lovers, daddy issues and tons of comical moments.
The characters and their back stories are very relatable on many levels. The dialogue was easy to follow and the story itself transitioned nicely throughout the pages.
There are some heated, detailed scenes within the book but the majority of the book is plot.
If you like contemporary romance, with realistic scenarios, timelines and issues, then this may be the book for you.
Thank you to MacMillan Publishers for this ARC. Releases April 14 2026.
April 24, 2026
Stranger things have happened is a romantic comedy about Sutton who agrees to fake an engagement and attend premarital counseling. She agrees to this because one of her oldest friends asks her to in a last ditch attempt to convince her own fiancee to attend counseling.
During these fake sessions, real chemistry starts to develop between Sutton and Elijah, who are about as opposite and unlikley a couple as it comes.
Impractical? Yes. Cute? Also yes. Stranger things have happened is not your typical forced proximity story, but I'm not mad at it.
The banter between this unlikely fake couple is fun. I loved them together and couldn't wait for them to realize the chemistry was real even if their engagement was not.
Aside from the fake dating there is a side theme that centers around family dynamics that definitely weighs heavy on the couple. Sutton has a horrible relationship with her mother and a non-existent one with her father. Elijah on the other hand, comes from a wealthy family that has specific expectations.
This was my first experience reading anything by Kasie West. And I had a great time and would read more from her in the future.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
During these fake sessions, real chemistry starts to develop between Sutton and Elijah, who are about as opposite and unlikley a couple as it comes.
Impractical? Yes. Cute? Also yes. Stranger things have happened is not your typical forced proximity story, but I'm not mad at it.
The banter between this unlikely fake couple is fun. I loved them together and couldn't wait for them to realize the chemistry was real even if their engagement was not.
Aside from the fake dating there is a side theme that centers around family dynamics that definitely weighs heavy on the couple. Sutton has a horrible relationship with her mother and a non-existent one with her father. Elijah on the other hand, comes from a wealthy family that has specific expectations.
This was my first experience reading anything by Kasie West. And I had a great time and would read more from her in the future.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Loved. This. Story! And it was my first Kasie West!!
*I split time between the audiobook and ebook*
This is one of those rom-com books where you *kinda* have to suspend your belief a bit when it comes to the storyline. For the sake of fun and reading and fiction, that’s not at all hard for me to do! Sutton and Elijah meet at a bar only minutes after she was dumped over the phone. They meet, make a farfetched bet that requires them to fake date, and Sutton finds out Elijah’s brother is engaged to her high school best friend. AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT.
The writing was so fun and easy to get completely sucked into. The dialogue sounded real and authentic. The banter/flirting was precious and the tension was DELICIOUS! The spice was so good. Elijah was easy to fall for and Sutton was beyond easy to root for!
For the ENTIRE book I never knew whether we liked or hated Tara and/or Michael. They both seemed like they only tolerated Sutton at best. Tara is supposed to be such a good friend to Sutton, yet Tara made cutting, sarcastic, underhanded, shitty remarks to Sutton OFTEN. It made me sad as hell for our main girly pop because her mom was the same kind of jerk to Sutton, too.
I felt like the third act break-up in Stranger Things Have Happened was 110% justified and believable. The miscommunication was, too, because despite their strong feelings, Sutton and Eli really hadn’t known one another too terribly long. (And therefore just had kinks to work out.)
I wish we had some closure with the therapist situation by the end of the book. (What happened with her?!) BUT all in all? I’m so so happy with having read this book! Would highly recommend!
Karissa Vacker is a narrator I LOVE TO LISTEN TO! She puts so much life into what she reads and my gosh — I am obsessed with her “guy” voice!!! (She recently narrated Still Into You and was just so fantastic in that one, too!) Would 10/10 love to listen to another audio narrated by her in the future!
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for the early copy!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the early audiobook! #MacAudio2026
All opinions expressed are my own.
*I split time between the audiobook and ebook*
This is one of those rom-com books where you *kinda* have to suspend your belief a bit when it comes to the storyline. For the sake of fun and reading and fiction, that’s not at all hard for me to do! Sutton and Elijah meet at a bar only minutes after she was dumped over the phone. They meet, make a farfetched bet that requires them to fake date, and Sutton finds out Elijah’s brother is engaged to her high school best friend. AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT.
The writing was so fun and easy to get completely sucked into. The dialogue sounded real and authentic. The banter/flirting was precious and the tension was DELICIOUS! The spice was so good. Elijah was easy to fall for and Sutton was beyond easy to root for!
For the ENTIRE book I never knew whether we liked or hated Tara and/or Michael. They both seemed like they only tolerated Sutton at best. Tara is supposed to be such a good friend to Sutton, yet Tara made cutting, sarcastic, underhanded, shitty remarks to Sutton OFTEN. It made me sad as hell for our main girly pop because her mom was the same kind of jerk to Sutton, too.
I felt like the third act break-up in Stranger Things Have Happened was 110% justified and believable. The miscommunication was, too, because despite their strong feelings, Sutton and Eli really hadn’t known one another too terribly long. (And therefore just had kinks to work out.)
I wish we had some closure with the therapist situation by the end of the book. (What happened with her?!) BUT all in all? I’m so so happy with having read this book! Would highly recommend!
Karissa Vacker is a narrator I LOVE TO LISTEN TO! She puts so much life into what she reads and my gosh — I am obsessed with her “guy” voice!!! (She recently narrated Still Into You and was just so fantastic in that one, too!) Would 10/10 love to listen to another audio narrated by her in the future!
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for the early copy!
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the early audiobook! #MacAudio2026
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 26, 2026
absolutely loved Sutton & Elijah 💓 this was such a good story about finding yourself and letting go feeling the need to be in control. I just confess, I honestly didn’t like most of these characters outside of Sutton & Elijah. But I think you’re supposed to not like them. Her mom, her friends fiance, etc. despite not like most of them, this book still was so good. I loved Sutton and could relate to her so hard.
May 6, 2026
I just love Kasie West. Her books are so light and fun amd just really keep you engaged and turning the page. Such a fun read
October 11, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley for providing me with this ARC.
When Sutton agrees to pose as her best friend’s fake fiancée for a wild therapy experiment, she’s sure it’s just a favor and maybe a little payback for her disastrous week. Her restaurant’s in chaos, her mother’s impossible, and her ex just dumped her over the phone. Pretending to be in love with Elijah, a cocky (and unfairly attractive) stranger, can’t possibly make things worse… right? But as the fake couple dive deeper into “therapy” to prove that a real therapist can tell true love from an act, Sutton starts to question everything. Because the more time she spends with Elijah, the less pretend their chemistry feels and the more her carefully guarded heart begins to fall for the lie.
I loved this book! As a counselor, I thought it was an interesting plot point for a book. There were some questions I had as far as Sutton and Tara’s friendship. I know they had a talk but I wish there was more behind their conversation.
The development of her relationship with Elijah was really well done. Seeing her slowly start to trust and feel comfortable in her skin made me so happy. Eli was so supportive and seeing him able to take risks and reflect was well done.
Her momma aint s**t and I will not be elaborating on that💀 All in all, this is a really good book and I highly recommend it!
When Sutton agrees to pose as her best friend’s fake fiancée for a wild therapy experiment, she’s sure it’s just a favor and maybe a little payback for her disastrous week. Her restaurant’s in chaos, her mother’s impossible, and her ex just dumped her over the phone. Pretending to be in love with Elijah, a cocky (and unfairly attractive) stranger, can’t possibly make things worse… right? But as the fake couple dive deeper into “therapy” to prove that a real therapist can tell true love from an act, Sutton starts to question everything. Because the more time she spends with Elijah, the less pretend their chemistry feels and the more her carefully guarded heart begins to fall for the lie.
I loved this book! As a counselor, I thought it was an interesting plot point for a book. There were some questions I had as far as Sutton and Tara’s friendship. I know they had a talk but I wish there was more behind their conversation.
The development of her relationship with Elijah was really well done. Seeing her slowly start to trust and feel comfortable in her skin made me so happy. Eli was so supportive and seeing him able to take risks and reflect was well done.
Her momma aint s**t and I will not be elaborating on that💀 All in all, this is a really good book and I highly recommend it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,114 reviews