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Spruce Hill #4
Crumbling Truth
Can one sweet deal erase the bitterness that haunts them?
Theo Silver left Spruce Hill after a tragic accident in high school and hasn’t looked back—at least not until his mother lures him home under the guise of looking after the widow renting her guest house. When he discovers the woman is neither elderly nor helpless, he makes the best of his family’s deception by devising a plan to convince the town he and the widow are dating. What better way to avoid unwanted holiday invitations than to cozy up with a fake girlfriend?
Esther Malek survived a terrible marriage and forged a new life for herself after her husband died, launching an allergy-friendly baking business with her food truck, The Nutless Wonder. The last thing she needs is her landlord’s handsome son distracting her in the lead-up to holiday events, but his suggestion of a fake relationship might present certain advantages . . . if Theo will accept a few adjustments so she can end her dry spell without diving back into the dating pool.
When a string of pranks directed at Esther shifts from annoying to potentially deadly, their fake liaison grows into something neither of them anticipated—but all of it will mean nothing if the threat against Esther escalates further.
Because the broken pieces of the past might cause their future to crumble, too.
Theo Silver left Spruce Hill after a tragic accident in high school and hasn’t looked back—at least not until his mother lures him home under the guise of looking after the widow renting her guest house. When he discovers the woman is neither elderly nor helpless, he makes the best of his family’s deception by devising a plan to convince the town he and the widow are dating. What better way to avoid unwanted holiday invitations than to cozy up with a fake girlfriend?
Esther Malek survived a terrible marriage and forged a new life for herself after her husband died, launching an allergy-friendly baking business with her food truck, The Nutless Wonder. The last thing she needs is her landlord’s handsome son distracting her in the lead-up to holiday events, but his suggestion of a fake relationship might present certain advantages . . . if Theo will accept a few adjustments so she can end her dry spell without diving back into the dating pool.
When a string of pranks directed at Esther shifts from annoying to potentially deadly, their fake liaison grows into something neither of them anticipated—but all of it will mean nothing if the threat against Esther escalates further.
Because the broken pieces of the past might cause their future to crumble, too.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2025
2 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Fitzjames
8 books36 followersRachel Fitzjames is the author of a contemporary romantic suspense series set in the fictional town of Spruce Hill, NY. She started writing on her brother’s ancient computer back in the early 90s and never looked back, though her first short story about an underground cat thievery ring was sadly lost. With a degree in geography inspired by wanderlust, Rachel has a keen appreciation for the escape that the romance genre allows. She is a lifelong resident of Western NY and created Spruce Hill in order to give a little bit of home to all of her characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
November 11, 2025
As someone that grew up in a small town, I love reading stories that take place in small towns because there is just something about them that you can only understand if you have been there. They are breeding grounds for rumors and gossip, places that you will never be able to hide in. This is the first book I have read by this author and my first visit to this small town of Spruce Hill, even though this is the fourth book in this series. It was definitely one that I enjoyed enough to want to go back and read the other books in this series. The small town feel with everyone speculating what happened and spreading wild rumors was written so well that I felt like I was back home. I loved the characters in this book. This book is all about second chances, but not in the typical sense. Both of the characters are finding second chances at life, and it made it you want to connect to the characters. And who doesn’t love a fake dating situation that develops into more.
I really liked how relatable these main characters were. Both had been through something that impacted their life, but it was so great to read along as they grew and developed with each other. Esther is starting her new life after the death of her husband. She is the owner of a bakery food truck that specializes in food allergy friendly products due to her own serious food allergy. Theo left town after a horrible accident and hasn’t been back. His parents convince him back to help out, specifically to check in on the poor widow that is renting from them. I love a fake dating that develops into more and these two were worth the slow burn that we went through.
This was a cute small town, fake dating romance with a dash of mystery thrown in in the form of a mystery prankster that moves the plot of this book along. As feelings develop in this fake dating relationship, we get some wonderful spicy scenes between the two main characters, and it is worth any wait. This book was entertaining with fun and lovable main characters that make this story worth reading. It is a fairly quick paced book, and I found it such an enjoyable read.
I really liked how relatable these main characters were. Both had been through something that impacted their life, but it was so great to read along as they grew and developed with each other. Esther is starting her new life after the death of her husband. She is the owner of a bakery food truck that specializes in food allergy friendly products due to her own serious food allergy. Theo left town after a horrible accident and hasn’t been back. His parents convince him back to help out, specifically to check in on the poor widow that is renting from them. I love a fake dating that develops into more and these two were worth the slow burn that we went through.
This was a cute small town, fake dating romance with a dash of mystery thrown in in the form of a mystery prankster that moves the plot of this book along. As feelings develop in this fake dating relationship, we get some wonderful spicy scenes between the two main characters, and it is worth any wait. This book was entertaining with fun and lovable main characters that make this story worth reading. It is a fairly quick paced book, and I found it such an enjoyable read.
November 7, 2025
Small town.
Fake dating.
Golden Retriever MMC.
sidesgiving.
MMC's mother is behind our FMC and MMC meeting.
My first reach by Tachel Fitzjames and I really enjoyed it. It was so easy to get sucked into the story.
Esther is renting a guest house after her husband dies. Theo comes home to take care of his parents house when they go out of town, his mother doesn't give him any details of who is in their guest house. They meet briefly at her bakery food truck- I loved that it focused on allergy friendly foods as our FMC has severe food allergies to peanuts.
The town thinks Esther murdered her husband, and rumors of why Theo left and never returned circle around. They agree to fake date to get the town folks to stop inviting them places and asking questions.
Seeing them open up to each other and slowly fall for each other was so sweet. Theo was so understanding and Esther worked hard to find her confidence again.
I don't want to spoil the story of the twist I didn't see coming.
Our Queen of Sweets and her sidekick Long John are given an opportunity to find love when they both swore it off. I definitely recommend it!
Fake dating.
Golden Retriever MMC.
sidesgiving.
MMC's mother is behind our FMC and MMC meeting.
My first reach by Tachel Fitzjames and I really enjoyed it. It was so easy to get sucked into the story.
Esther is renting a guest house after her husband dies. Theo comes home to take care of his parents house when they go out of town, his mother doesn't give him any details of who is in their guest house. They meet briefly at her bakery food truck- I loved that it focused on allergy friendly foods as our FMC has severe food allergies to peanuts.
The town thinks Esther murdered her husband, and rumors of why Theo left and never returned circle around. They agree to fake date to get the town folks to stop inviting them places and asking questions.
Seeing them open up to each other and slowly fall for each other was so sweet. Theo was so understanding and Esther worked hard to find her confidence again.
I don't want to spoil the story of the twist I didn't see coming.
Our Queen of Sweets and her sidekick Long John are given an opportunity to find love when they both swore it off. I definitely recommend it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2025
I have decided to go into this series (interconnected stand-alones) starting with this one since I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader. I will be going back and reading the first three for sure, because I need more of this small town! I’m just getting into the romantic suspense genre and I’ve been jumping head first. That being said this is one of my favorites so far.
I love me a small town romance, add in fake dating? A recipe for success! Throwing in some Holidays and there is no way this book was not to be loved by me. The suspense aspect really added to the story and had me sitting on the edge of my seat.
The depth of our two main characters, Theo and Esther was written beautifully. We got just enough of their background and the right times to help us understand their actions so much more. Their banter was top tier and had me giggling and kicking my feet.
I love me a small town romance, add in fake dating? A recipe for success! Throwing in some Holidays and there is no way this book was not to be loved by me. The suspense aspect really added to the story and had me sitting on the edge of my seat.
The depth of our two main characters, Theo and Esther was written beautifully. We got just enough of their background and the right times to help us understand their actions so much more. Their banter was top tier and had me giggling and kicking my feet.
November 3, 2025
It was ok not over keen however it’s part of series again
Blurb
Can one sweet deal erase the bitterness that haunts them?
Theo Silver left Spruce Hill after a tragic accident in high school and hasn’t looked back—at least not until his mother lures him home under the guise of looking after the widow renting her guest house. When he discovers the woman is neither elderly nor helpless, he makes the best of his family’s deception by devising a plan to convince the town he and the widow are dating. What better way to avoid unwanted holiday invitations than to cozy up with a fake girlfriend?
Esther Malek survived a terrible marriage and forged a new life for herself after her husband died, launching an allergy-friendly baking business with her food truck, The Nutless Wonder. The last thing she needs is her landlord’s handsome son distracting her in the lead-up to holiday events, but his suggestion of a fake relationship might present certain advantages . . . if Theo will accept a few adjustments so she can end her dry spell without diving back into the dating pool.
When a string of pranks directed at Esther shifts from annoying to potentially deadly, their fake liaison grows into something neither of them anticipated—but all of it will mean nothing if the threat against Esther escalates further.
Because the broken pieces of the past might cause their future to crumble, too.
Blurb
Can one sweet deal erase the bitterness that haunts them?
Theo Silver left Spruce Hill after a tragic accident in high school and hasn’t looked back—at least not until his mother lures him home under the guise of looking after the widow renting her guest house. When he discovers the woman is neither elderly nor helpless, he makes the best of his family’s deception by devising a plan to convince the town he and the widow are dating. What better way to avoid unwanted holiday invitations than to cozy up with a fake girlfriend?
Esther Malek survived a terrible marriage and forged a new life for herself after her husband died, launching an allergy-friendly baking business with her food truck, The Nutless Wonder. The last thing she needs is her landlord’s handsome son distracting her in the lead-up to holiday events, but his suggestion of a fake relationship might present certain advantages . . . if Theo will accept a few adjustments so she can end her dry spell without diving back into the dating pool.
When a string of pranks directed at Esther shifts from annoying to potentially deadly, their fake liaison grows into something neither of them anticipated—but all of it will mean nothing if the threat against Esther escalates further.
Because the broken pieces of the past might cause their future to crumble, too.
December 4, 2025
Thank you to Rachel and Happily Booked for a copy of this cute read!
I loved the relationship between Theo and Esther. They just understand and support each other so well. They belong together!
I also really appreciated the food allergy representation in this. Even though I’m not allergic to anything, (to my knowledge) I feel like allergies are not talked about enough.
I recommend to people who like close proximity, past trauma, and food allergy representation.
-food allergy rep
-fmc is being threatened
-past trauma
-widow fmc
-spice
-mcs are mid to late 30s
I loved the relationship between Theo and Esther. They just understand and support each other so well. They belong together!
I also really appreciated the food allergy representation in this. Even though I’m not allergic to anything, (to my knowledge) I feel like allergies are not talked about enough.
I recommend to people who like close proximity, past trauma, and food allergy representation.
-food allergy rep
-fmc is being threatened
-past trauma
-widow fmc
-spice
-mcs are mid to late 30s
November 4, 2025
I've been looking forward to this one for months!!
Rachel Fitzjames handles difficult dynamics and backstories really sensitively and well. I love that about her. Definitely pick up this series--I've not mixed small town and suspense before, but she does it really, really well.
Rachel Fitzjames handles difficult dynamics and backstories really sensitively and well. I love that about her. Definitely pick up this series--I've not mixed small town and suspense before, but she does it really, really well.
November 29, 2025
First of all, thank you to Rachel Fitzjames for this amazing book in this amazing series !! I fell in love with her writing style when I first read A Lonely Road and I have been lucky enough to have read Canvas of Lies as well as advanced copies. And, once again, I was lucky enough to receive this book as an advanced copy, and I am absolutely in love with the town of Spruce Hill. If only it was real, I would love to visit this small town and explore all the shops ❤️ This is the fourth book in the series titled Spruce Hill, and each book can be read alone but they are interconnected with each other.
This is the story of Esther, who managed to survive a tumultuous and toxic relationship with her then-husband, just a town over from Spruce Hill. After her husband died, she decided to pack up her things and move to Spruce Hill and opened up her own business, The Nutless Wonder. She has started to rebuild her life and has been living in the guest house of Anita Silver, minding her business and ignoring the town gossiping that she murdered her husband. She has slowly started to get back into the world of hanging out with her close friend Sophia, who she sadly pulled away from after marrying Steve.
Theo Silver hasn’t been back to Spruce Hill after a tragic accident that happened when he was in high school. Since then, he has avoided coming back to the small town and having to withstand hearing all those people gossiping about him. Until his mother, Anita, lures him (according to him) or how she sees it, asking her son to help look after her elderly neighbor, while she is away on vacation with her husband, his father. When Theo arrives, he notices that his elderly neighbor has been moving around a lot, and leaving early in the morning and arriving at night time. One night, he decided he should introduce himself to his neighbor, and figure out what is going on.
Little did he know that his elderly neighbor is in fact Esther and the moment they meet each other, sparks fly like it's the fourth of July! The way these two just absolutely complement one another and make each other a better person 🤭 The way that they are able to bring out the best of each other and ensure that they start to live life once again after tragedies affecting them to hide away from the world make my heart swell! I truly loved reading their journey in finding themselves and realizing that they deserve love, even though there are a few bumps in the road to getting there. And the fact that Rachel is a literary genius and is able to include a mystery that ties in with Esther’s story was the cherry on top!! I cannot wait for the next book in the series and who the next couple is gonna be 🙂↕️
Rating: 1000000/5
steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
This is the story of Esther, who managed to survive a tumultuous and toxic relationship with her then-husband, just a town over from Spruce Hill. After her husband died, she decided to pack up her things and move to Spruce Hill and opened up her own business, The Nutless Wonder. She has started to rebuild her life and has been living in the guest house of Anita Silver, minding her business and ignoring the town gossiping that she murdered her husband. She has slowly started to get back into the world of hanging out with her close friend Sophia, who she sadly pulled away from after marrying Steve.
Theo Silver hasn’t been back to Spruce Hill after a tragic accident that happened when he was in high school. Since then, he has avoided coming back to the small town and having to withstand hearing all those people gossiping about him. Until his mother, Anita, lures him (according to him) or how she sees it, asking her son to help look after her elderly neighbor, while she is away on vacation with her husband, his father. When Theo arrives, he notices that his elderly neighbor has been moving around a lot, and leaving early in the morning and arriving at night time. One night, he decided he should introduce himself to his neighbor, and figure out what is going on.
Little did he know that his elderly neighbor is in fact Esther and the moment they meet each other, sparks fly like it's the fourth of July! The way these two just absolutely complement one another and make each other a better person 🤭 The way that they are able to bring out the best of each other and ensure that they start to live life once again after tragedies affecting them to hide away from the world make my heart swell! I truly loved reading their journey in finding themselves and realizing that they deserve love, even though there are a few bumps in the road to getting there. And the fact that Rachel is a literary genius and is able to include a mystery that ties in with Esther’s story was the cherry on top!! I cannot wait for the next book in the series and who the next couple is gonna be 🙂↕️
Rating: 1000000/5
steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
November 4, 2025
Crumbling Truth by Rachel Fitzjames is an emotionally layered, beautifully written romance that digs deep into the scars people carry and the courage it takes to love again. Esther and Theo are two characters who immediately tug at your heart as they are both haunted by tragic pasts that make connection feel impossible. What makes their story so powerful is how real it feels, their healing isn’t linear, their love isn’t perfect, but it’s genuine. The way Fitzjames intertwines grief, growth, and vulnerability makes every page hit a little harder.
The fake dating trope adds warmth and levity to an otherwise emotional narrative, and the inclusion of food allergy representation is refreshing and handled thoughtfully. It’s those little details, the awkward humor, the quiet moments, the ways they slowly let each other in, that make this story so worthwhile. Watching Esther and Theo find safety and trust in one another feels like witnessing something fragile bloom into something steady and true. Crumbling Truth is heartfelt, honest, and ultimately hopeful, a romance that reminds you that love can grow even through the cracks.
Thank you to Rachel Fitzjames and Happily Booked PR for sending me the eARC in exchange for my honest review!
The fake dating trope adds warmth and levity to an otherwise emotional narrative, and the inclusion of food allergy representation is refreshing and handled thoughtfully. It’s those little details, the awkward humor, the quiet moments, the ways they slowly let each other in, that make this story so worthwhile. Watching Esther and Theo find safety and trust in one another feels like witnessing something fragile bloom into something steady and true. Crumbling Truth is heartfelt, honest, and ultimately hopeful, a romance that reminds you that love can grow even through the cracks.
Thank you to Rachel Fitzjames and Happily Booked PR for sending me the eARC in exchange for my honest review!
November 4, 2025
Theo Silver is back in Spruce Hill thanks to his interfering mother who matchmakers a bit . It’s a great storyline,in fact it’s divine . Mother knows best is the essence of this bliss ,it really is the chef’s kiss. She’s a widow ye see yes but she’s not infirm as she was made out to be . This tenant his ma wants him to look after ya see.Esther Malek though isn’t tragic anymore ,though she is a little demure. She’s pure of heart and all even though with her husband alive she did NOT have a ball. Discovering what her heart is for and to look out for herself . She starts a new business ,a bakery with her food truck called an ingenious title Nutless Wonder that is for those with allergies and focusing all her energies on it is what she finds exquisite . A sweet tooth,a requisite. It’s maybe in their favour as attention he doesn’t need comes at speed now that he’s back in town so he lays himself open and asks Esther to be her fake girlfriend you see . The last thing she needed was the landlady’s son impeded on her but there’s a certain attraction to be spoken for . Keeps others from her door… This is a perfectly sweet and wholesome storyline , divine !
October 28, 2025
I rated this book
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was my first time reading a book by Rachel Fitzjames. I was not disappointed. This book was so so good. The author’s writing style, and the character development were aspects that kept me fully engaged and invested in this book. Two of the characters that we get to know in this book were Esther and Theo. Both started out in a fake relationship but in the end, they wound up being together. You couldn’t help but fall in love with Theo. He was such a warm, caring person. You can’t help but fall in love with this fictional character. I would be in my bed reading this book and always saying to myself just one more chapter just one more chapter and in the end, wound up reading way beyond my bedtime. 10 out of 10 I would recommend this book to everyone. The crumbling truth is a book that involves a suspenseful plot with just the right amount of romance and spice. I would definitely recommend this book and all of Rachel Fitzjames books. 📚
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was my first time reading a book by Rachel Fitzjames. I was not disappointed. This book was so so good. The author’s writing style, and the character development were aspects that kept me fully engaged and invested in this book. Two of the characters that we get to know in this book were Esther and Theo. Both started out in a fake relationship but in the end, they wound up being together. You couldn’t help but fall in love with Theo. He was such a warm, caring person. You can’t help but fall in love with this fictional character. I would be in my bed reading this book and always saying to myself just one more chapter just one more chapter and in the end, wound up reading way beyond my bedtime. 10 out of 10 I would recommend this book to everyone. The crumbling truth is a book that involves a suspenseful plot with just the right amount of romance and spice. I would definitely recommend this book and all of Rachel Fitzjames books. 📚
October 29, 2025
Small town?
Snow?
Sidesgiving?!
Fake dating with benefits?
This book was so good the authors writing style, and the character development were aspects that kept me fully engaged and invested in this book.
Esther & Theo started out in a fake relationship but in the end, they wound up being together. You couldn’t help but fall in love with Theo. He was such a warm, caring person.
Theo and Esther were exactly what each other needed at exactly the right time. It's a wonderful story of healing and moving on from the past.
Theo is the broody, quietly protective type; Esther is our strong, grounded, and done-with-being-rescued heroine. The stakes heighten as pranks (threats?) against Esther escalate, and Theo steps up to keep her safe. The feelings turn real, the twists keep coming.
Snow?
Sidesgiving?!
Fake dating with benefits?
This book was so good the authors writing style, and the character development were aspects that kept me fully engaged and invested in this book.
Esther & Theo started out in a fake relationship but in the end, they wound up being together. You couldn’t help but fall in love with Theo. He was such a warm, caring person.
Theo and Esther were exactly what each other needed at exactly the right time. It's a wonderful story of healing and moving on from the past.
Theo is the broody, quietly protective type; Esther is our strong, grounded, and done-with-being-rescued heroine. The stakes heighten as pranks (threats?) against Esther escalate, and Theo steps up to keep her safe. The feelings turn real, the twists keep coming.
November 4, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
This was my first book I’ve read by Rachel Fitzjames and I was not sad about it! This is the prime example of a romantic suspense - the perfect amount of drama/thrill, romance and spice. The story building and characters kept me up way past my bedtime 😂
You couldn’t help but have a soft spot for Theo. The relationship between him and Esther started out as fake but we all know how that goes - of course they can’t help but to develop real feelings for each other. Theo is the quiet, protective type…opposite of what Esther thinks she wants - she’s done with being rescued.
You’ll not want to put this book down. Would definitely recommend and plan to read the other books in the series! Thank you @happilybookedpr and @rachelfitzjames for the opportunity to arc read. All opinions are my own.
This was my first book I’ve read by Rachel Fitzjames and I was not sad about it! This is the prime example of a romantic suspense - the perfect amount of drama/thrill, romance and spice. The story building and characters kept me up way past my bedtime 😂
You couldn’t help but have a soft spot for Theo. The relationship between him and Esther started out as fake but we all know how that goes - of course they can’t help but to develop real feelings for each other. Theo is the quiet, protective type…opposite of what Esther thinks she wants - she’s done with being rescued.
You’ll not want to put this book down. Would definitely recommend and plan to read the other books in the series! Thank you @happilybookedpr and @rachelfitzjames for the opportunity to arc read. All opinions are my own.
November 7, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded up.
Theo is back in his small hometown to watch his parent's cat while they are away. They've asked him to check in on Esther, who lives in their guest house. Theo assumed Esther was an older woman, but is shocked to find out she is around his age, gorgeous, runs a local food truck, and is suspected of murdering her husband. The pair decide to start fake dating to avoid unwanted holiday invitations, but their feelings start to grow...and then threatening things keep happening to Esther.
I really enjoyed the mystery component of this book. It kept me interested and questioning who could be behind the weird phone calls and deliveries. The romance between Theo and Esther was definitely spicy, but fake dating to avoid holiday invitations didn't really make sense to me when they just could have said no. I also thought this was repetitive at times. They basically spend half the book baking or in bed together. That said, I absolutely want to devour some of the baked goods because they sound delicious! I also really appreciated that Theo and his brother were able to talk through their issues and start connecting again. It was a sweet moment!
Many thanks to the author and Happily Booked PR for the advance copy!
Theo is back in his small hometown to watch his parent's cat while they are away. They've asked him to check in on Esther, who lives in their guest house. Theo assumed Esther was an older woman, but is shocked to find out she is around his age, gorgeous, runs a local food truck, and is suspected of murdering her husband. The pair decide to start fake dating to avoid unwanted holiday invitations, but their feelings start to grow...and then threatening things keep happening to Esther.
I really enjoyed the mystery component of this book. It kept me interested and questioning who could be behind the weird phone calls and deliveries. The romance between Theo and Esther was definitely spicy, but fake dating to avoid holiday invitations didn't really make sense to me when they just could have said no. I also thought this was repetitive at times. They basically spend half the book baking or in bed together. That said, I absolutely want to devour some of the baked goods because they sound delicious! I also really appreciated that Theo and his brother were able to talk through their issues and start connecting again. It was a sweet moment!
Many thanks to the author and Happily Booked PR for the advance copy!
November 8, 2025
Crumbling Truth by Rachel Fitzjames is the story of Esther and Theo.
Esther has moved to Spruce Hill to operate an allergy-friendly food truck after the death of her husband. Theo fled Spruce Hill after a tragic high school accident but has returned for the short-term to care for his parents’ cat while they are away.
Neither of them is looking for romance or any emotional entanglements, for that matter but they cannot help to be drawn toward one another.
I really enjoyed this book. Both Theo and Esther were written with sensitivity and maturity. The storyline, the dramatic at times, was also believable and compelling.
This is the first book that I’ve read in the Spruce Hill series and it can be read as a standalone title, although now I am planning on reading the other books in this series as well.
Esther has moved to Spruce Hill to operate an allergy-friendly food truck after the death of her husband. Theo fled Spruce Hill after a tragic high school accident but has returned for the short-term to care for his parents’ cat while they are away.
Neither of them is looking for romance or any emotional entanglements, for that matter but they cannot help to be drawn toward one another.
I really enjoyed this book. Both Theo and Esther were written with sensitivity and maturity. The storyline, the dramatic at times, was also believable and compelling.
This is the first book that I’ve read in the Spruce Hill series and it can be read as a standalone title, although now I am planning on reading the other books in this series as well.
November 10, 2025
Crumbling Truth is a second chance at love with a little suspense. This is Esther and Theo’s story filled with fake dating and holiday vibes. I love how they met and a little bit of matchmaking on his mother’s part, but it got them planning something more in their lives. I also love their chemistry and how they both had a tragic past, but them finding each other helped them open up more. I love stories with baking in it and Esther is a unique character who has food allergies and this story brings awareness to it. Their story also has some interesting and surprising twists that made their story more suspenseful, but also pushed them to forgive themselves and family. I really enjoyed their story and loved the other characters that helped them find their HEA.
I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance readers copy.
I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance readers copy.
November 24, 2025
This book was such a great mix of romance and suspense. Fake dating trope, is one of my favourites, but I stayed for the mystery that kept me guessing.
Theo comes back to his small hometown to cat sit for his parents and ends up checking in on Esther, their tenant. He expects someone older, but instead finds a woman his age who’s smart, strong, and trying to rebuild her life after a painful past. Their fake relationship starts as a way to avoid awkward holiday invites, but it quickly turns into something real.
I really liked how their connection grew slowly and naturally. Theo is quiet and protective, while Esther is independent and guarded. There were some funny moments, some spicy ones too.
The suspense added a nice edge to the story.
The small-town setting was cozy, and I loved the food truck details especially the allergy-friendly bakery idea.
Theo comes back to his small hometown to cat sit for his parents and ends up checking in on Esther, their tenant. He expects someone older, but instead finds a woman his age who’s smart, strong, and trying to rebuild her life after a painful past. Their fake relationship starts as a way to avoid awkward holiday invites, but it quickly turns into something real.
I really liked how their connection grew slowly and naturally. Theo is quiet and protective, while Esther is independent and guarded. There were some funny moments, some spicy ones too.
The suspense added a nice edge to the story.
The small-town setting was cozy, and I loved the food truck details especially the allergy-friendly bakery idea.
October 28, 2025
Small-town charm + fake dating + suspense…Rachel Fitzjames has done it again! This is the fourth book in her Spruce Hill series and the lead characters in this one were such a delight.
Theo is the broody, quietly protective type; Esther is our strong, grounded, and done-with-being
-rescued heroine. The primary trope in this book is fake dating, but the stakes heighten as pranks (threats?) against Esther escalate, and Theo steps up to keep her safe. The feelings turn real, the twists keep coming, and the pages kept turning. Such a propulsive installment in the series!
Cozy, swoony, a little dangerous—this book delivers everything I want in a romantic suspense!
Theo is the broody, quietly protective type; Esther is our strong, grounded, and done-with-being
-rescued heroine. The primary trope in this book is fake dating, but the stakes heighten as pranks (threats?) against Esther escalate, and Theo steps up to keep her safe. The feelings turn real, the twists keep coming, and the pages kept turning. Such a propulsive installment in the series!
Cozy, swoony, a little dangerous—this book delivers everything I want in a romantic suspense!
November 8, 2025
When Theo returns home for the holidays to cat sit, a fake relationship with his mums tenant, Esther, seems like the perfect cover to avoid any festive invites. But as sparks fly and pranks turn dangerous, their pretend romance might be the real thing—and their pasts could ruin it all.
I devoured this book in one sitting! Theo and Esther’s connection was so genuine, and I loved watching their friendship blossom into trust and love after everything they’d been through. I couldn’t put it down!
Small Town Romance 🏡
Fake Relationship 💕
Grumpy x Sunshine ☀️🌧️
Second Chances 💫
Healing from Trauma 💔➡️❤️
Protective MMC 🛡️
Slow Burn 🔥
Holiday Setting 🎄
Danger / Suspense 🔪
I devoured this book in one sitting! Theo and Esther’s connection was so genuine, and I loved watching their friendship blossom into trust and love after everything they’d been through. I couldn’t put it down!
Small Town Romance 🏡
Fake Relationship 💕
Grumpy x Sunshine ☀️🌧️
Second Chances 💫
Healing from Trauma 💔➡️❤️
Protective MMC 🛡️
Slow Burn 🔥
Holiday Setting 🎄
Danger / Suspense 🔪
October 20, 2025
4.5 rounded up
I normally write up a review as soon as I finish a book, but y'all, I was so sucked in and couldn't put this book down, so I stayed up too late to finish it and then fell asleep as soon as I put it down!
This book was so, so good! I loved Esther and Theo, and all the care that Theo gave! Let me go and swoon over this fictional man! This book had such good representation of food allergies and how life altering they can be, the romance was phenomenal and so perfect for this couple, and don't even get me started on the suspense element! I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't stop reading (and now I need a nap thank you) and I'm already ready to head back to Spruce Hill!
I normally write up a review as soon as I finish a book, but y'all, I was so sucked in and couldn't put this book down, so I stayed up too late to finish it and then fell asleep as soon as I put it down!
This book was so, so good! I loved Esther and Theo, and all the care that Theo gave! Let me go and swoon over this fictional man! This book had such good representation of food allergies and how life altering they can be, the romance was phenomenal and so perfect for this couple, and don't even get me started on the suspense element! I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't stop reading (and now I need a nap thank you) and I'm already ready to head back to Spruce Hill!
November 3, 2025
Crumbling Truth
Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love this book so much. I loved the food allergy representation, especially that it wasn't just mentioned once and thrown to the side. It was a focal point, and made the tender care that the FMC received from the MMC even better.
It is disgustingly cute in all of the best ways, and I was completely hooked on this book. It was the perfect pick-me-up! I do feel that the suspense and plot twist revolving the tragic backstory should have perhaps been placed elsewhere, as by the end I was struggling to remember why it was happening in the first place.
Overall, Crumbling Truth by Rachel Fitzjames was a hearty book, and was the perfect one to read to bring in the colder months.
Crumbling Truth is OUT NOW! Go get your hands on this sweet as pie romance.
Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love this book so much. I loved the food allergy representation, especially that it wasn't just mentioned once and thrown to the side. It was a focal point, and made the tender care that the FMC received from the MMC even better.
It is disgustingly cute in all of the best ways, and I was completely hooked on this book. It was the perfect pick-me-up! I do feel that the suspense and plot twist revolving the tragic backstory should have perhaps been placed elsewhere, as by the end I was struggling to remember why it was happening in the first place.
Overall, Crumbling Truth by Rachel Fitzjames was a hearty book, and was the perfect one to read to bring in the colder months.
Crumbling Truth is OUT NOW! Go get your hands on this sweet as pie romance.
November 3, 2025
4,25⭐
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the fourth book in the Spruce Hill series and it is a standalone.
My first contact with the author's writing and I am more than satisfied.
The protagonists are Esther and Theo, who create a fake bond between them, but...
The author's writing is full of emotions, simple, intoxicating, warm, spicy and cozy. With certainty, I can say that I feel very lucky to have been chosen, among others, to read this book.
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the fourth book in the Spruce Hill series and it is a standalone.
My first contact with the author's writing and I am more than satisfied.
The protagonists are Esther and Theo, who create a fake bond between them, but...
The author's writing is full of emotions, simple, intoxicating, warm, spicy and cozy. With certainty, I can say that I feel very lucky to have been chosen, among others, to read this book.
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
November 5, 2025
Between learning about the MCs past, and the romance brewing between them, this was hard to put down. On top of the drama and romance there was a bit of suspense. All well done and paced well.
What I liked most is that even though Esther and Theo had both been through so much, they found themselves open to love again. Theo was the protector/cinnamon roll, and overall nice guy. Esther was strong and able to take of herself was not afraid to tell Theo what she needed.
Both characters are likeable, and the suspense was on point. I was afraid every time Esther was alone.
If you are looking for a spicy fake dating romance with a bit of suspense, this is amazing.
What I liked most is that even though Esther and Theo had both been through so much, they found themselves open to love again. Theo was the protector/cinnamon roll, and overall nice guy. Esther was strong and able to take of herself was not afraid to tell Theo what she needed.
Both characters are likeable, and the suspense was on point. I was afraid every time Esther was alone.
If you are looking for a spicy fake dating romance with a bit of suspense, this is amazing.
November 9, 2025
Small town, fake dating, and the holidays. Can you really ask for more than that?
I was given the opportunity to read this as an ARC reader, so I hadn’t read the bills before this one. But this one was such a cute and fun read, that I’ll definitely be going back to read the others. I loved the whole background of this one, and the characters were so much fun. I really liked that the book threw in a little bit more than just fun and happy. It pulled in some rather mean rumors. But I’m not going to tell you. You’ll have to read this yourself. But trust me, it’s most definitely worth reading.
I was given the opportunity to read this as an ARC reader, so I hadn’t read the bills before this one. But this one was such a cute and fun read, that I’ll definitely be going back to read the others. I loved the whole background of this one, and the characters were so much fun. I really liked that the book threw in a little bit more than just fun and happy. It pulled in some rather mean rumors. But I’m not going to tell you. You’ll have to read this yourself. But trust me, it’s most definitely worth reading.
November 10, 2025
This was such a sweet treat of a read, pun very much intended! I loved Theo and his family & friends. Esther had me cracking up. This was really heartwarming in the end. I really enjoyed how everything came together. I thought the pacing was great, I didn’t feel rushed but also didn’t feel there was a point that really dragged out. I also really enjoyed the way the characters developed as the story went on and overall enjoyed the writing. While it’s not getting a five star rating, it is still a very strong 4 star and one I would highly recommend you check out!
November 10, 2025
I think this was my favorite so far! I'm so happy I got to read the ARC! Thanks, Rachel and Happily Booked!
When long-buried secrets come to light, one woman must confront everything she thought she knew about love, loyalty, and herself.
Rachel Fitzjames writes with emotional intensity and raw honesty. The pacing is deliberate, allowing deep introspection. The tone, dark, reflective, and deeply moving.
A gripping, emotional story of truth, betrayal, and redemption. Crumbling Truth lingers long after you finish.
When long-buried secrets come to light, one woman must confront everything she thought she knew about love, loyalty, and herself.
Rachel Fitzjames writes with emotional intensity and raw honesty. The pacing is deliberate, allowing deep introspection. The tone, dark, reflective, and deeply moving.
A gripping, emotional story of truth, betrayal, and redemption. Crumbling Truth lingers long after you finish.
October 28, 2025
I had the honor of receiving an early copy of this book!
I’m obsessed with the Spruce Hill series, and Crumbling Truth did not disappoint! The characters felt so real, and Theo and Esther are absolutely amazing together. Theo might just be my new book boyfriend.💞 The way he is with Esther is the sweetest thing ever!
Between the heart-melting romance and the page-turning suspense, I was completely hooked from start to finish. Rachel Fitzjames has outdone herself again!
I’m obsessed with the Spruce Hill series, and Crumbling Truth did not disappoint! The characters felt so real, and Theo and Esther are absolutely amazing together. Theo might just be my new book boyfriend.💞 The way he is with Esther is the sweetest thing ever!
Between the heart-melting romance and the page-turning suspense, I was completely hooked from start to finish. Rachel Fitzjames has outdone herself again!
November 3, 2025
As a Gigi to a grandson with life threatening nut allergies who is also a baker this book punched me in the heart. The fear of exposure to the allergy is such a real and frightening thing and that comes across in the story as to why Esther is giving everything to ensure the safety of her products. I received this as an advanced read and am voluntarily leaving a review. Theo’s compassion and determination is exactly what she needs. Such a great read!!
November 4, 2025
Crumbling Truth was a perfect mix of romance and suspense. I was hooked from the first chapter — the tension in the small-town setting, the slow-building chemistry between Theo and Esther, and the mystery unfolding around them kept me turning pages. Both characters felt real, with believable struggles and growth, and I loved how their relationship developed alongside the suspense. This one stayed with me long after I finished it.
November 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC Review!!!
A beautifully emotional small town romance about grief, healing, and finding love again. Esther & Theo’s story felt so real, messy, heartfelt and full of hope. Their fake dating turned into something steady and true and I adored every tender, awkward and healing moment.
Loved the food allergy rep, the slow burn tension 🔥and that cozy holiday vibe that made my heart melt.
Crumbling Truth reminds you that love can grow even through the cracks.
ARC Review!!!
A beautifully emotional small town romance about grief, healing, and finding love again. Esther & Theo’s story felt so real, messy, heartfelt and full of hope. Their fake dating turned into something steady and true and I adored every tender, awkward and healing moment.
Loved the food allergy rep, the slow burn tension 🔥and that cozy holiday vibe that made my heart melt.
Crumbling Truth reminds you that love can grow even through the cracks.
November 20, 2025
Crumbling Truth was a novel that I never realized I would need.
Firstly, Esther and Theo are two of the most genuine souls with such baggage and hurt that love seemed almost impossible. I love the way that Fitzjames made this so refreshing and enjoyable.
The layers and depth put into this novel is unmatched -- especially the extra care thrown in with the allergy friendly bakery!
Thank you, Happily Booked PR for this ARC!
Firstly, Esther and Theo are two of the most genuine souls with such baggage and hurt that love seemed almost impossible. I love the way that Fitzjames made this so refreshing and enjoyable.
The layers and depth put into this novel is unmatched -- especially the extra care thrown in with the allergy friendly bakery!
Thank you, Happily Booked PR for this ARC!
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