Fake Fiancée for the Grumpy Billionaire

by Lily Cross, Virtual Voice (Narrator)

After ten years apart, I'm secretly carrying a baby for my fake fiancé.

A decade ago, a smoldering one-night stand with a hot, grumpy man at a yacht party seared my soul and left a scar that still burns. He vanished without a word, leaving me with unanswered questions and lingering desires.

Now, fate brings us together again. I’m a restaurant critic, and he’s a hotel magnate desperate for my approval. To make things worse, he’s my best friend’s untouchable billionaire brother.
His intense blue eyes set my blood on fire, and his infuriating attitude only makes me want him more.

Dining at his restaurant was a mistake, igniting a scandal that threatens to destroy my career. To save me, he proposes a fake engagement.
Each staged kiss blurs the lines between pretend and real, pulling us deeper into a forbidden desire. I can't deny it anymore. I want him—for me and for our baby.

As our charade deepens, so does our connection, and the stakes have never been higher. One conversation could change everything or tear us apart. Are we ready to risk it all for a love that could set us free?

9 pages, Audible Audio

Published April 22, 2025

About the author

My stories blend sizzling romance with thrilling suspense, packed with enough twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. And of course, they all come with a happily ever after. If you're excited to read all my new releases for free, I'd love for you to join me. Follow this link to accept this gift and dive into the adventure: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/60gay0537y

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Reviews

[Sheila M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much to love about Fake Fiancé for the Grumpy Billionaire! It is a long book at 430+ pages, but worth the time. This book covers so many tropes, but Cross is able to creatively blend them, so the story doesn't seem choppy. This leads to many twists and turns in the plotline. This story centers around Ivy Woods (Holly Forrest, Forrest) and Fletcher Banner (Jay, Jessie James, Flet, Fletch, and Banner). They have different names depending on the situation. Ivy has been best friends with Mary-Kay Banner (MK) since they met at a private high school in NYC. Ivy had heard from her friend for years about MK’s horrible, grumpy big brother. MK comes up with an idea for her and Ivy to make a lot of money quickly as Yacht Girls, but MK backs out at the last-minute leaving Ivy, known as Forrest) aboard the boat, unable to disembark. It is on that boat that Ivy first meets Fletcher, going by Jay or Jessie James. Ivy quickly figures out the job is shady, and Fletcher saves her. Ivy and Fletcher fell hard for each other that weekend, but misunderstandings, lies and deception keep them from reconnecting until 10 years later. Not realizing what she is setting in motion, MK sets Ivy up on a blind date with Fletcher. That is when the story gets really good.

There are a lot of emotions involved with this book for not only the MCs, but for supporting characters as well. Lily Cross’ writing is lyrical and evocative, vividly describing the world and characters’ emotions. I found the love and lust Ivy and Fletcher have for each other to be a beautiful, true love, that is blended with moments of tenderness and hope. The shared love both MCs have for Daniel, MK’s son is touching and heartfelt. Daniel is innocent of his mother’s money grubbing, selfish, self-centered ways. Ivy and Fletcher have complicated relationships with MK, but for different reasons. The author does an excellent job of pulling readers in with plot points, tension, and character building, with content written in a way that is captivating and suspenseful enough to keep you riveted to the story until the end. There is enough spice simmering throughout the book to steam up your Kindle. I highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly Forest’s best friend MK’s Billionaire brother? Oh bother ,not only that but she hates him so. Doesn’t do things by halves this one ….except… she’s been here before , a decade ago . One hot night at a yacht party which sent him packing? Yup that’s right upped and left without a word, leaving want as well as unanswered questions as to why.. Fate has her here and now . Dealing his fate right back to him. Will it be wilful approval or rejection and go swivel? See she’s now a restaurant critic that could sink or swim him . Apt after their time a decade past don’t ya think ? He’s an hotel magnate now. She’s dining at his restaurant. Thing is they’re both in hot water and he’s being blackmailed over their dalliance on the yacht. Who is this person what is he/ she after? There’s only one thing to do and they announce their engagement… yes of course there’s more to the tale . Like she wasn’t always known as Forest nor him Jay ,anyway he didn’t want to leave her high and dry and he want to leave his details for her to give him a call but that information wasn’t passed on as he was wrongly told she was a working girl the yacht had let on…Anyway back at the restaurant and their engagement. Fletcher Banner steps in when it comes to light about their night and what it could mean for her career to be here. Not only that but she’s been keeping mum. Excellent writing Lily Cross who knows her stuff and gets us engrossed. Never fails to hook with her prose and great storytelling skills. Her book is filled with great thrills too. Bonus ! Woohoo!

[Nancy Koske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jay aka Fletcher landed his helicopter on the yacht's pad to complete a contract signing before he will leave. He hears voices and finds a young lady in a red bikini telling a guy that she doesn't him touching her that way. The guy is Brent Morecambe. Jay is attracted to her, but she is not sure that he won't try to force himself on her. Finally they spent the night together. He learns that her name is Forrest . Now 10 years, he has a hotel empire when his sister,Mary-Kay that her friend needs a Plus One for a dinner. Jay is the owner of Sabine restaurant which is opening soon in his his newest hotel in Vegas. Holly Forrest, her work name, is a top 'Food Critic' and needs a companion so that she can make notes of the restaurant without being noticed by the serve staff as a single diner. Jay is surprised when it is the same girl from the yacht 10 years earlier. How do they react to each other? He now learns her real name is Ivy Woods. After Jay realizes who she is, he asks what he has to do to get a 5-Star review for his restaurant. Then they spend the night together afterwards and are caught on pictures. Now Holly has to defend her rating, Banner wants a fake engagement to cover the situation. How will that play out? What does Mary-Kay express her displeasure about the engagement? What secret does Ivy flee from Jay while they are in France? Will their first encounter from 10 years come back to haunt them? What will have to do to make live safe for them?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

After ten years apart, I'm secretly carrying a baby for my fake fiancé.



A decade ago, a hot, grumpy man saved me at a yacht party, and we had a one-night stand.

It captured my soul and left a scar I couldn't heal.

He disappeared without a word.



Now we cross paths again.

I'm a restaurant critic, and he's a hotel magnate desperate for good reviews.

Worse, he's my best friend's off-limits billionaire brother.

This contemporary billionaire romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are exuding power, captivating, grumpy, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the fake fiancee for the grumpy billionaire, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, off-limits enemies-to-lovers second chance romance, drama, heartfelt emotions, deception, action, secrets, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with a fake fiancee for the grumpy billionaire and an explicit romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wild and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fletcher landed on a yacht party to finish a business deal and ends up rescuing a young woman during that time. They end up getting together that night and make plans for how he can reach out to her, but it never happens. Now years later they run into each other at a hotel bar when her friend sends her brother to be iris's dinner companion. Iris is a food critic, but Fletcher doesn't know that at first. They start rehashing what happened between them in the past. However, once he realizes she there to review his hotel/restaurant things get complicated. When her career is at risk he comes to her rescue again. This time its not long before things get very real between them. Will they admit that they want each other? Can they find a way to be together?

This is a great story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lolly Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in one go. I couldn't get the characters out of my mind, so I actually woke up in the middle of the night to carry on reading! I wish this book was made into a movie, because it has one of those plots that grips you from the start and doesn't let go until the end.
First of all, there are none of those cliche miscommunications that could be cleared up with a question and answer because these are like real people having the full human experience.
It perfectly captures the moment when a man with a hunting instinct sees a woman he can imagine spending the rest of his life with and goes after her and won't let go. But he does it like a gentleman all the same. respecting Holly's boundaries and basically letting her choose if she wants to be with him. And what woman wouldn't want to be with Jay? He's gorgeous beefcake boyfriend billionaire.
For both Holly and Jay, it doesn't feel like a one night stand, so they don't treat it like that right from the start.
The bedroom (and many other steamy places) scenes are HOT. They are 2 hotties who can't keep their hands off each other, but the lovemaking perfectly represents what happens during those beautiful days after a meet-cute.
Jay is a born protector and provider with everyone in his circle. He's really got that killer instinct when the situation demands it.
Holly has got some real Latin flavor, olive skin and black hair, plus a quickfire temper. And for a woman working in the food industry, there are certain drawbacks to being sick!
I was literally biting my nails during some parts in this book. It's fast paced and racy, while never losing sight of the romance.
Love, love, LOVE this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A romantic save. Fletcher / Jay save Forrest / Ivy from a sexual assault then they got to know each other and had an one night stand.
Fletcher did try to get her information from the one who was going to pay her for being on the yaht but he lied to Fletcher saying she was an escort.
The meet 10 years later, she is a popular restaurant critic and he is a multi million businessman renovating houses. Unfortunately he is the forbidden brother of her best friend, who hates him. Also, if known that they ate together at his restaurant, it would be bad news for her.
Though she learns she is pregnant.
Additionally he wants to deal with the person who is trying to blackmail him for sleeping with her while she was an yaht girl. She wants to help. Will there be danger?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chrys · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5* This book just was not for me. So the prologue definitely wasn't for me on this book. Overall kinda gave me thinking ick, and I didn't love some of the descriptive words. The present of the book started out alright. However, our MMCs lacked communication and often jumped to concolusions for an overall vibe of a juvenile relationship. The relationship heavily focused on intimacy and not much else. Things just started to go downhill the more I read. Neither of our MC were all that likable. I didn't like the information around the pregnancy and the doctors views on how to handle her pregnancy and kinda felt like she wasn't looking out for the FMC best interest. I absolutely hated MKs character.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sue Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

OK fake relationship romance. I did enjoy reading this story of Ivy & Fletcher’s relationship – especially as they story starts in the ‘past’ then flips forward ten years. I liked that Ivy is a strong independent woman who more than holds her own with grumpy Fletcher. The story has some unexpected plot twists as the two combine forces to deal with issues from the past that are related to their initial encounter. My one criticism is that the steamy scenes become a bit repetitive, with the same phraseology being used and therefore giving them a formulaic feel. A reasonably good read from Lily Cross.

[Charmaine Nouwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fake Fiancée for the Grumpy Billionaire: An Off-limits Enemies to Lovers Second Chance Romance story of Fletcher and Ivy..they've met at the billionaire yacht a decade ago when he save her from a guy,they have an instant chemistry ga&ve him her vcard only to vanished without a word..10 years later their path crossed again..She is a restaurant critic and he’s a hotel magnate desperate for her approval..To make things worse, he’s my best friend’s untouchable billionaire brother...An intriguing,intense,steamy with family drama,a bit of suspense,angst ,romance and second chances...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LeMiliere · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ivy and Fletcher’s relationship has spanned years, he's her bestie's brother but they haven't seen each other for years so this story starts in the ‘past’ and then jumps forward ten years.

The characters are well-drawn, Ivy's strong and independent and gives as good as she gets when it comes to Fletcher the grumpy billionaire.

There are some unexpected plot twists as the two come together first in a fake relationship but then.... I have to say although I liked the story it wasn't this author's best work in my opinion.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Renee Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

In dire need of needing some quick money, Forrest (Ivy) reluctantly attends a party on a yacht. She & Jay (Fletcher) have an instant attraction but this is a one-night fling. Fast-forward 10 yrs. they meet & their attraction is rekindled. They learn about what really happens to the models & influencers when they sign up with the “service company”. Investigating deeper, sickens them & they work together to stop this illegal activity. Between their whirlwind romance & a mystery unfolding, this story-line gets better & better! Always a good read with Lily Cross novels.

I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eighteen-year-old Ivy Woods, who goes by the name Holly Forrest, becomes a "yacht girl" after being introduced to the lifestyle by her best friend, Mary-Kay. When a guest attempts to make unwanted advances towards her, Holly is saved by a man named Jay. Ten years later, Holly Forrest is now a renowned food critic and unexpectedly reencounters Jay, only to learn that he is Fletcher, her best friend Mary-Kay's older brother. This story has action, drama, romance, and steam, ending in a HEA. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fake fiancé story drew me in right from the beginning. Ivy and Fletcher. They had an intimate night years ago that left Ivy with a parting gift and they reconnect when she is at his restaurant to right a review. Their meeting starts a scandal one that could end her career so the only thing they can do is pretend to be getting married. Will their fake relationship lead to the real deal especially when he meets her child.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book. It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was intense. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. These characters were chemistry was off the charts and the physical attraction was absolutely a lot of tension. And this romance was forbidden and they couldn’t fight the temptation any longer in this moment. Was he so intrigued with her or could it be hot passion love.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones

[Mindy Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an off limits, second chance romance between Ivy and her best friend's brother, Fletcher, who had a one night stand ten years ago. These two flawed but likeable souls and the unique plot make for an entertaining read. Once they reconnect, it is a bumpy ride with drama and steam, sexual tension and chemistry, twists and turns, plus appealing secondary characters to keep the reader interested. A sweet love story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debdutch · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Fake Fiancee for the Grumpy Billionaire" by Lily Cross offers a fast-paced, engaging fake relationship romance with plenty of tension. While the story is enjoyable, the repetitive nature of the steamy scenes detracts slightly from the overall experience. A solid read with well-crafted characters and a gripping storyline.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J.p · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book of second chances and forever love. Fletcher and Ivy who are great characters by the way, met 10 yrs prior when he came to her rescue on a yacht outing. They had a wonderful time together then drifted away. Now they meet again and once again comes to her rescue by proposing a fake marriage. It’s not all smooth sailing, waters are a bit choppy, there’s angst and miscommunication but also steamy and real love, you get the drift. Very enjoyable.

[Terra Oenning · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good and will definitely have you hooked from the beginning until the end. It's with chemistry and romance and it's also best friends brother taboo with all the right feels. Forrest goes on a yacht to earn money but when she gets there's not what she expected and meets Jay after he saves her but when sparks fly between them who is out to blackmail him? Great story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[JM G · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book!! A one night stand and years later they meet again. The chemistry between them is spicy hot! However, there are many complications they must deal with. Will they be able to work through them to get to their potential HEA? I don't provide many details since I don't want to spoil this book for anyone. But I recommend adding this to your list to read!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jay & Forrest / Fletcher & Ivy: Best friend’s brother/ one night stand/ second chance/ forbidden romance/ fake fiancée: They first meet as Jay and Forrest, and then they meet again as Fletcher and Ivy ten years later. I was hooked right away by Lily Cross’ writing style and the entertaining storyline. This page turner took me on a crazy emotional ride, and I loved every minute of it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Ms. Cross, and I really enjoyed it! So, Im definitely looking forward to reading more!

I loved the LUST between the MMC and FMC! PHEW! HOTTT!
But, they did become a bit like a re-run (I think I saw this before!)

But the writing style and characters were captivating enough to make me want to read another Lily Cross story!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one heck of an attention gripping masterpiece of a romance book that will take you on a journey of a lifetime by Lily. Not only will this romance read ignite a fire of passion inside of you, but it will also leave a scorching mark on your heart all due to the captivating characters and storyline. So, HEAT up your TBR list today by adding this book to your kindle for a must-read book.

[Julie Juhl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fake Fiancee for the Grumpy Billionaire by Lily Cross was so much fun to read! It was well written with a lot of drama and romance. I couldn't get enough of Ivy and Fletcher. This is one of those books that I know you will enjoy reading and much as I did.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an entertaining book that grabs your attention and holds it captive from beginning to end. The storyline is intriguing as the past meets the present for these two people. The characters are well written and have depth to their personalities. Enjoy this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Throughout this entire book, the biggest question I had was, is their love worth the risk? These have enough chemistry to light a bonfire, but their attraction is also one that is forbidden. Can they overcome their obstacles to find a love that’s perfect for them?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rach H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fletcher and Ivy's story was enjoyable to read and had me involved from the start.
I liked the characters and their connection even when things were against them they worked through them and became stronger as a couple.
I'm glad they got the blackmail ring busted.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read several books written by Lily Cross; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

She has written another good stand-alone book. The story is about Ivy & Fletcher; they meet again after ten years apart when her best friend, his sister sets them up for a date.

[B E · Rating 4 out of 5]

They had a fling on a yacht years ago. She is now a food critic and he is her friends billionaire brother. SThey are photographed together and now it looks like she is being bribed. They agree to a fake engagement but things turn real.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

She's been roped into doing something she would normally not do. He just happens to see her and is intrigued. One night seals their fate. This hits some areas that may be triggers for some. Some areas are sensitive in nature . I love how they work together and bring down some bad people . Wonderful story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.