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Hideaway Harbor #2
The Holiday Fakers
One fake boyfriend. One bed. One very complicated Christmas.
Piper
I promised my mom I’d bring a boyfriend home for the holidays.
I did not mean Brody King—Hollywood heartthrob, tabloid trainwreck, and the reason I have a folder of fantasy fan art I’ll take to the grave.
He’s also my brother’s best friend and the man who ghosted our small town (and me) twelve years ago.
Now we’re sharing one bed, faking a relationship, and pretending he’s changed.
The problem? I’m starting to believe it.
But Brody doesn’t do forever.
And I don’t do heartbreak twice.
Brody
The plan was simple: come home, look reformed, and don’t fall for Piper Locke. Again.
Instead, I’m stuck in a snow-globe town with the girl I never stopped wanting.
Piper’s smart, hilarious, way too sexy—and still completely off-limits.
She thinks I’ll leave like last time.
And she’s right. My next job’s a world away from Hideaway Harbor.
But this fake relationship feels dangerously real, and Piper isn’t just a PR fix.
She’s the reason I want to stay.
Too bad I’m the last person who deserves her... and the one person who can’t seem to walk away.
The Holiday Fakers is a laugh-out-loud, one-bed, fake-dating romcom with festive flair and serious steam. If you love small-town chaos, slow-burn tension, and a guaranteed happily ever after, this book is your perfect cozy escape!
400 pages, ebook
First published November 5, 2025
324 people are currently reading
9369 people want to read
About the author
Evie Alexander
18 books1,006 followersEvie Alexander is a multi-award-winning author of sexy romantic comedies, blending snort-laugh humor and panty-melting chemistry into unputdownable stories that will steal your heart.
When she’s not dreaming up swoony heroes and relatable heroines, Evie can be found in the beautiful West Country of the UK, where she lives with her ridiculously patient husband, miracle daughter, and two dogs who think they run the show.
If you want to find her online, here’s where to go!
Website: https://eviealexanderbooks.com/
Newsletter: https://eviealexanderauthor.com/subsc...
Instagram: https://instagram.com/eviealexanderau...
When she’s not dreaming up swoony heroes and relatable heroines, Evie can be found in the beautiful West Country of the UK, where she lives with her ridiculously patient husband, miracle daughter, and two dogs who think they run the show.
If you want to find her online, here’s where to go!
Website: https://eviealexanderbooks.com/
Newsletter: https://eviealexanderauthor.com/subsc...
Instagram: https://instagram.com/eviealexanderau...
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November 7, 2025🎄 ’Tis the season to date your brother’s best friend… 💖
Are you ready for some spicy small-town holiday romance? Welcome to Hideaway Harbor, a coastal town in Maine where the spring water is rumored to be magical, the café is run by a shameless matchmaker, and Skippy the town dog naps in doorways like he owns the place.
Piper Locke is the daughter of Hideaway’s mayor, and her family can’t wait to have her home for the holidays with her new boyfriend. Unfortunately, the man she’s bringing with her is Hollywood bad boy Brody King who ghosted the town twelve years ago, and their ‘relationship’ is as fake as the snow in a Christmas snow globe…
I had such a blast writing The Holiday Fakers! It’s got ALL my favorite tropes and more heat than chestnuts roasting on an open fire!
If you love:
🤞 Fake dating
🛏️ Only one bed
🔥 Brother’s best friend
🤣 Meddling families
⏲️ Slow burn to high spice 🌶️
🎁 The perfect gifts 😍
🎄 All the Christmas magic ❄️
Then you need The Holiday Fakers in your life!
👉 🎄💖 Get your copy of The Holiday Fakers now in all formats by clicking here! 💖🎄 👈
💕 ⭐ The Holiday Fakers blurb ⭐ 💕
One fake boyfriend. One bed. One very complicated Christmas.
Piper
I promised my mom I’d bring a boyfriend home for the holidays.
I did not mean Brody King—Hollywood heartthrob, tabloid trainwreck, and the reason I have a folder of fantasy fan art I’ll take to the grave.
He’s also my brother’s best friend and the man who ghosted our small town (and me) twelve years ago.
Now we’re sharing one bed, faking a relationship, and pretending he’s changed.
The problem? I’m starting to believe it.
But Brody doesn’t do forever.
And I don’t do heartbreak twice.
Brody
The plan was simple: come home, look reformed, and don’t fall for Piper Locke. Again.
Instead, I’m stuck in a snow-globe town with the girl I never stopped wanting.
Piper’s smart, hilarious, way too sexy—and still completely off-limits.
She thinks I’ll leave like last time.
And she’s right. My next job’s a world away from Hideaway Harbor.
But this fake relationship feels dangerously real, and Piper isn’t just a PR fix.
She’s the reason I want to stay.
Too bad I’m the last person who deserves her... and the one person who can’t seem to walk away.
The Holiday Fakers is a laugh-out-loud, one-bed, fake-dating romcom with festive flair and serious steam. If you love small-town chaos, slow-burn tension, and a guaranteed happily ever after, this book is your perfect cozy escape!
The Holiday Fakers is part of the Christmas at Hideaway Harbor series of six spicy romantic comedies. The books are interconnected standalones and can be read in any order.
✅ Editorial reviews ✅
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The perfect combination of heartfelt charm and fake-dating shenanigans! Alexander has done it again and will have you holding your side along with Brody, Piper, and the Hideaway Harbor crew. Magnificently fun and an absolute gem this holiday season!”
Tori Ross
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Fake dating, one bed, and a Hollywood heartthrob you can’t help but fall for - this book is pure festive perfection!”
Margaret Amatt
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The Holiday Fakers just keeps getting better and better as it rolls through all the best tropes: second chance, slow burn, fake dating, small town, only one bed… it’s a giant holiday snowball packed with irresistible will-they-or-won’t-they romance, rollicking laughs and non-stop fun! I loved it!!!”
Barbara Kellyn
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Small-town charm meets big-time spice in a romance so good, you’ll want to reread it every holiday season!.”
Lexi Blair
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I had the honor and privilege of reading an early copy of this book. I couldn’t put it down! Evie drew me in and I was hooked on Piper and Brody’s story! 5 stars!”
Heather Kelley
👉 🎄💖 Get your copy of The Holiday Fakers now in all formats by clicking here! 💖🎄 👈
👉 🦊 And click here for Evie’s books in all formats, as well as exclusive bundle deals! 🦊 👈
Are you ready for some spicy small-town holiday romance? Welcome to Hideaway Harbor, a coastal town in Maine where the spring water is rumored to be magical, the café is run by a shameless matchmaker, and Skippy the town dog naps in doorways like he owns the place.
Piper Locke is the daughter of Hideaway’s mayor, and her family can’t wait to have her home for the holidays with her new boyfriend. Unfortunately, the man she’s bringing with her is Hollywood bad boy Brody King who ghosted the town twelve years ago, and their ‘relationship’ is as fake as the snow in a Christmas snow globe…
I had such a blast writing The Holiday Fakers! It’s got ALL my favorite tropes and more heat than chestnuts roasting on an open fire!
If you love:
🤞 Fake dating
🛏️ Only one bed
🔥 Brother’s best friend
🤣 Meddling families
⏲️ Slow burn to high spice 🌶️
🎁 The perfect gifts 😍
🎄 All the Christmas magic ❄️
Then you need The Holiday Fakers in your life!
👉 🎄💖 Get your copy of The Holiday Fakers now in all formats by clicking here! 💖🎄 👈
💕 ⭐ The Holiday Fakers blurb ⭐ 💕
One fake boyfriend. One bed. One very complicated Christmas.
Piper
I promised my mom I’d bring a boyfriend home for the holidays.
I did not mean Brody King—Hollywood heartthrob, tabloid trainwreck, and the reason I have a folder of fantasy fan art I’ll take to the grave.
He’s also my brother’s best friend and the man who ghosted our small town (and me) twelve years ago.
Now we’re sharing one bed, faking a relationship, and pretending he’s changed.
The problem? I’m starting to believe it.
But Brody doesn’t do forever.
And I don’t do heartbreak twice.
Brody
The plan was simple: come home, look reformed, and don’t fall for Piper Locke. Again.
Instead, I’m stuck in a snow-globe town with the girl I never stopped wanting.
Piper’s smart, hilarious, way too sexy—and still completely off-limits.
She thinks I’ll leave like last time.
And she’s right. My next job’s a world away from Hideaway Harbor.
But this fake relationship feels dangerously real, and Piper isn’t just a PR fix.
She’s the reason I want to stay.
Too bad I’m the last person who deserves her... and the one person who can’t seem to walk away.
The Holiday Fakers is a laugh-out-loud, one-bed, fake-dating romcom with festive flair and serious steam. If you love small-town chaos, slow-burn tension, and a guaranteed happily ever after, this book is your perfect cozy escape!
The Holiday Fakers is part of the Christmas at Hideaway Harbor series of six spicy romantic comedies. The books are interconnected standalones and can be read in any order.
✅ Editorial reviews ✅
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The perfect combination of heartfelt charm and fake-dating shenanigans! Alexander has done it again and will have you holding your side along with Brody, Piper, and the Hideaway Harbor crew. Magnificently fun and an absolute gem this holiday season!”
Tori Ross
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Fake dating, one bed, and a Hollywood heartthrob you can’t help but fall for - this book is pure festive perfection!”
Margaret Amatt
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The Holiday Fakers just keeps getting better and better as it rolls through all the best tropes: second chance, slow burn, fake dating, small town, only one bed… it’s a giant holiday snowball packed with irresistible will-they-or-won’t-they romance, rollicking laughs and non-stop fun! I loved it!!!”
Barbara Kellyn
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Small-town charm meets big-time spice in a romance so good, you’ll want to reread it every holiday season!.”
Lexi Blair
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I had the honor and privilege of reading an early copy of this book. I couldn’t put it down! Evie drew me in and I was hooked on Piper and Brody’s story! 5 stars!”
Heather Kelley
👉 🎄💖 Get your copy of The Holiday Fakers now in all formats by clicking here! 💖🎄 👈
👉 🦊 And click here for Evie’s books in all formats, as well as exclusive bundle deals! 🦊 👈
December 4, 2025
Aaaahhhh, I just adored Piper and Brody's story and I would absolutely love to live in Hideaway Harbor! All the characters were amazing and had their own fun personalities, which were written so well. I just loved the fact that while Brody and Piper had difficult decisions to make, there wasn't interference from any exes and such and that there was no real angst. It was refreshing to say the least. If you want an exciting and fun Christmas story then look no further!
November 14, 2025
Generally speaking this was a nice enough Hallmark-y Christmas read, but I did not vibe with this book as much as I had hoped!
I also felt the story was too long, with various plot lines muddling the fake dating slash second chance romance celebrity main story.
The small town and its various inhabitants, shops, and events were OK. But a mountain rescue on top (pun intended) of everything was just too much for me.
I understand that some of the storylines will feature in other books in this series or by this author, but I noticed I was scanning pages instead of reading them.
I was also not invested in the many sex scenes. They felt a bit cringy and very unsexy to me. Hard to put my finger on what exactly did not do it for me, possible the language used? “I’m on him like my pussy’s got an itch, and he’s my scratching post.” “His cock is red and swollen, slapping against his washboard abs as if seeking my hands.” Both sound like something to discuss with your doctor.
The first second meeting between the MMC and FMC was a real life red flag, the burp jokes were immature, there was a slight religious undertone that I could do without, the niece was both too young and too old, and some of elements of the book were unresolved (probably for tie ins with future projects).
I did like that the FMC was a graphic designer!
A small 2.5 stars. I really wanted to round up to 3 stars, as it is the season, but writing this review… I cannot. Rounded down to 2 stars.
I am sure others will have a better time with The Holiday Fakers!
I received an ARC of this book (thanks!) and these are my own opinions.
I also felt the story was too long, with various plot lines muddling the fake dating slash second chance romance celebrity main story.
The small town and its various inhabitants, shops, and events were OK. But a mountain rescue on top (pun intended) of everything was just too much for me.
I understand that some of the storylines will feature in other books in this series or by this author, but I noticed I was scanning pages instead of reading them.
I was also not invested in the many sex scenes. They felt a bit cringy and very unsexy to me. Hard to put my finger on what exactly did not do it for me, possible the language used? “I’m on him like my pussy’s got an itch, and he’s my scratching post.” “His cock is red and swollen, slapping against his washboard abs as if seeking my hands.” Both sound like something to discuss with your doctor.
The first second meeting between the MMC and FMC was a real life red flag, the burp jokes were immature, there was a slight religious undertone that I could do without, the niece was both too young and too old, and some of elements of the book were unresolved (probably for tie ins with future projects).
I did like that the FMC was a graphic designer!
A small 2.5 stars. I really wanted to round up to 3 stars, as it is the season, but writing this review… I cannot. Rounded down to 2 stars.
I am sure others will have a better time with The Holiday Fakers!
I received an ARC of this book (thanks!) and these are my own opinions.
October 22, 2025
ARC Reader:
I loved this story! Piper and Brody have always had feelings for each other but never wanted to admit it to each other. Brody left Hideaway Harbor 12 years ago to make something of himself. The only problem he left with part of Piper's heart. When he has bad publicity, his agent decides that he needs to have a relationship with the girl from his past, the one who has always had a piece of his heart. The solution: have them in a “fake” relationship, the only problem is that they both don’t want it to be fake. I highly recommend this book, you really fall in love with the characters.
I loved this story! Piper and Brody have always had feelings for each other but never wanted to admit it to each other. Brody left Hideaway Harbor 12 years ago to make something of himself. The only problem he left with part of Piper's heart. When he has bad publicity, his agent decides that he needs to have a relationship with the girl from his past, the one who has always had a piece of his heart. The solution: have them in a “fake” relationship, the only problem is that they both don’t want it to be fake. I highly recommend this book, you really fall in love with the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2025
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via BookSirens. This in no way impacted on my view.
Piper Locke never expected that the google alert she set up for her old friend, turned movie star, Brody King, w0uld state she was his hidden girlfriend. She hasn't seen him in over 12 years, and next things she knows she's agreeing to be his fake girlfriend to help him get the role of his lifetime. Brody knows he messed up, and leaving Hideaway Harbor the way that he did, avoiding the only family he's ever had because he was scared, was a mistake. He needs Piper to help him, but hiding his feelings is getting even more difficult.
I always love a second chance romance, especially when there's a brother's best friend element too. This book had it all. Piper and Brody had basically grown up together, with Brody being her brother, Ethan's, best friend. They had feelings for each other, and nearly kissed when Piper was 16, but then Brody left. First he did some modelling, but then he made it big in Hollywood. The last few years have been hard, though. He's had bad press, time and time again, and he needs to change it around before he loses it all. I loved the way he and Piper managed to rediscover their past friendship quite quickly, and they didn't fight their feelings for each other too much. They realised they had lost out on the last 12 years, and they weren't going to waste any more time being apart. The conflict between them was handled so well, and the epilogue was the sweetest! I really need to see more from the Locke family, especially after little Martha's Christmas wish for her single dad, Ethan.
Piper Locke never expected that the google alert she set up for her old friend, turned movie star, Brody King, w0uld state she was his hidden girlfriend. She hasn't seen him in over 12 years, and next things she knows she's agreeing to be his fake girlfriend to help him get the role of his lifetime. Brody knows he messed up, and leaving Hideaway Harbor the way that he did, avoiding the only family he's ever had because he was scared, was a mistake. He needs Piper to help him, but hiding his feelings is getting even more difficult.
I always love a second chance romance, especially when there's a brother's best friend element too. This book had it all. Piper and Brody had basically grown up together, with Brody being her brother, Ethan's, best friend. They had feelings for each other, and nearly kissed when Piper was 16, but then Brody left. First he did some modelling, but then he made it big in Hollywood. The last few years have been hard, though. He's had bad press, time and time again, and he needs to change it around before he loses it all. I loved the way he and Piper managed to rediscover their past friendship quite quickly, and they didn't fight their feelings for each other too much. They realised they had lost out on the last 12 years, and they weren't going to waste any more time being apart. The conflict between them was handled so well, and the epilogue was the sweetest! I really need to see more from the Locke family, especially after little Martha's Christmas wish for her single dad, Ethan.
November 11, 2025
4.25 stars.
"The Holiday Fakers" by Evie Alexander is so much fun! I laughed my butt off reading this small-town, fake-dating, only one bed, brother's best friend rom-com! Piper is the daughter of Hideaway Harbor's very hands-on mayor. Her family wants the best for her, but they are very pushy about her getting married and having kids. Piper was obsessed with Brody, her brother's best friend, when she was younger, but Brody moved away and has since become a big-time Hollywood actor, model, and all-around heartthrob in the last 12 years. Pictures have recently gone viral of "Piper" and Brody meeting up one day, and even though she knows it wasn't her, the mystery woman looks a lot like her. He is in need of some good PR to rehab his image, and she is in need of a date for the Christmas holiday, so Brody and his agent decide he should fake-date Piper, a hometown sweetheart and all-around good person. That's sure to do it! I love a good fake-dating story, and this is one of the more flawless ones I have read as of late. All of the elements work and come together in a fast-paced, sweet, funny romance. I loved the swoon-worthy chemistry between Piper and Brody! I love how they have terrific banter with one another, even when they are forced into a situation where they have to fake how they feel "for the cameras" so they don't upset her brother. There is a lot of tension between the two of them, and also a tonnnnn of pent-up pining. I also loved all of the shenanigans involving Hideaway Harbor, especially Piper's very meddlesome mother and Brody's agent. So funny! You'll be laughing all the way to Christmas!
Thank you to Evie Alexander for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"The Holiday Fakers" by Evie Alexander is so much fun! I laughed my butt off reading this small-town, fake-dating, only one bed, brother's best friend rom-com! Piper is the daughter of Hideaway Harbor's very hands-on mayor. Her family wants the best for her, but they are very pushy about her getting married and having kids. Piper was obsessed with Brody, her brother's best friend, when she was younger, but Brody moved away and has since become a big-time Hollywood actor, model, and all-around heartthrob in the last 12 years. Pictures have recently gone viral of "Piper" and Brody meeting up one day, and even though she knows it wasn't her, the mystery woman looks a lot like her. He is in need of some good PR to rehab his image, and she is in need of a date for the Christmas holiday, so Brody and his agent decide he should fake-date Piper, a hometown sweetheart and all-around good person. That's sure to do it! I love a good fake-dating story, and this is one of the more flawless ones I have read as of late. All of the elements work and come together in a fast-paced, sweet, funny romance. I loved the swoon-worthy chemistry between Piper and Brody! I love how they have terrific banter with one another, even when they are forced into a situation where they have to fake how they feel "for the cameras" so they don't upset her brother. There is a lot of tension between the two of them, and also a tonnnnn of pent-up pining. I also loved all of the shenanigans involving Hideaway Harbor, especially Piper's very meddlesome mother and Brody's agent. So funny! You'll be laughing all the way to Christmas!
Thank you to Evie Alexander for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
November 7, 2025
"The Holiday Fakers" is book two in the Hideaway Harbor series. I have fallen in love with Hideaway Harbor; it's such a cozy small town full of wonderful people.
Piper has had a crush on her brother's best friend for years. However, Brody King left their small town and her twelve years ago. Since then, he's become a Hollywood heartthrob.
Piper needs a boyfriend to bring home for the holidays, and Brody needs to reform his image. Deciding to work together, they go back to Hideaway Harbor, fighting their feelings for each other the whole time.
"The Holiday Fakers" is full of so many heartwarming and funny moments. I love all the small memories Piper and Brody made, along with how many lives they touched.
Piper has had a crush on her brother's best friend for years. However, Brody King left their small town and her twelve years ago. Since then, he's become a Hollywood heartthrob.
Piper needs a boyfriend to bring home for the holidays, and Brody needs to reform his image. Deciding to work together, they go back to Hideaway Harbor, fighting their feelings for each other the whole time.
"The Holiday Fakers" is full of so many heartwarming and funny moments. I love all the small memories Piper and Brody made, along with how many lives they touched.
November 26, 2025
Kicking my feet SCREAMING
October 17, 2025
"It was never fake for me."
📖 The holiday fakers, Evie Alexander
Evie has become one of my favourite romance comedy writers. I always grinn with big smile while reading her works. After a year I got an oportunity to read ARC of the new "series" with 6 various authors, where each story happens in small town Hideaway Harbour.
Evie's characters are "old" friends with classic set up- he was her brothers best friend, now famous actor, who need some good publicity, so they start fake dating before Christmas. Heroine supposed to bring home her boyfriend but is now single, so they decide they won't tell her family that's all fake. Will pretending be succesfull? Or will they be caught?
----------
This was another funny and pretty quick read. I was hooked on the story, which was rich with christmasy activities, family bonding, friendly banters, heroic acts and special sexy times too. Characters are loveable, side ones give warm and special vibe too. It was well written story with a twist I wasn't fully expecting. I was hoping to happy end for one more couple too, but it wasn't focused to much on them. I'm interested to read other works too, set in this town and wondering if paths cross.
Thanks to author for ARC copy, all opinions are my own.
📖 The holiday fakers, Evie Alexander
Evie has become one of my favourite romance comedy writers. I always grinn with big smile while reading her works. After a year I got an oportunity to read ARC of the new "series" with 6 various authors, where each story happens in small town Hideaway Harbour.
Evie's characters are "old" friends with classic set up- he was her brothers best friend, now famous actor, who need some good publicity, so they start fake dating before Christmas. Heroine supposed to bring home her boyfriend but is now single, so they decide they won't tell her family that's all fake. Will pretending be succesfull? Or will they be caught?
----------
This was another funny and pretty quick read. I was hooked on the story, which was rich with christmasy activities, family bonding, friendly banters, heroic acts and special sexy times too. Characters are loveable, side ones give warm and special vibe too. It was well written story with a twist I wasn't fully expecting. I was hoping to happy end for one more couple too, but it wasn't focused to much on them. I'm interested to read other works too, set in this town and wondering if paths cross.
Thanks to author for ARC copy, all opinions are my own.
September 1, 2025
I had the extreme privilege of reading a beta ARC of this book. I love Evie’s spicy books and this was no different! I was hooked from the first chapter. Piper is just minding her own business when a media alert on her phone states that she’s hiding out with her life long crush. Except…. She knows that’s not true, so who is the girl in the photo? Brody is a model and an actor who needs some help with his PR so he can get his next big role. But will Piper be up to helping him, when he’s the one who ran away and never looked back? This fake-dating, spicy story will have you hooked and routing for Piper and Brody to not just be fake dating. I’m hoping that Evie makes this into a series because there are some side characters that definitely deserve to have their own story too!
September 16, 2025
The Holiday Fakers is the perfect holiday romance full of festive moments, spice, laughter and heart warming moments set in the most picturesque small town. This brothers best friend fake dating romance features Piper and Brody.
I loved their dynamics, their chemistry and the way they both supported each other’s dreams. This story has a fabulous cast of side characters from a meddling mother to a loveable family and town full of unforgettable characters. This was a joy to read so perfect for anyone that loves a holiday romance.
This book is part of the Christmas at Hideaway Harbour series. I received a complementary copy from the author.
I loved their dynamics, their chemistry and the way they both supported each other’s dreams. This story has a fabulous cast of side characters from a meddling mother to a loveable family and town full of unforgettable characters. This was a joy to read so perfect for anyone that loves a holiday romance.
This book is part of the Christmas at Hideaway Harbour series. I received a complementary copy from the author.
November 8, 2025
hideaway harbor loves Christmas
This is such a cute story of brothers best friend left small town to become an actor and fake relationship with her childhood crush mixed with the magic of Christmas! Piper and Brody have secretly always loved each other and thrown into a “fake” relationship to improve both their careers. With Piper’s dad being the Mayor of Hideaway Harbor Piper and Brody are thrown into showing off their relationship to the whole town to help Brody look more down to earth and relatable for his dream role.
Brody didn’t realize that being back to the town he grew up in would bring up so many emotions from running away from his own family problems along with his need to be enough.
This book has such a fun cozy vibe with the mom encouraged “snuggle time” that will make you not want to put it down!!
Thank you for letting me be a part of the ARC team I really enjoyed being a Holiday Hidie through this story!!
This is such a cute story of brothers best friend left small town to become an actor and fake relationship with her childhood crush mixed with the magic of Christmas! Piper and Brody have secretly always loved each other and thrown into a “fake” relationship to improve both their careers. With Piper’s dad being the Mayor of Hideaway Harbor Piper and Brody are thrown into showing off their relationship to the whole town to help Brody look more down to earth and relatable for his dream role.
Brody didn’t realize that being back to the town he grew up in would bring up so many emotions from running away from his own family problems along with his need to be enough.
This book has such a fun cozy vibe with the mom encouraged “snuggle time” that will make you not want to put it down!!
Thank you for letting me be a part of the ARC team I really enjoyed being a Holiday Hidie through this story!!
October 18, 2025
I loveeeeed this book!!! The second chance romance hits so hard. strong characters who you instantly fall in love with and a family of medlers that had me cracking up. Shower scenes that will leave you blushing for days. I want to go to this town and hunt a Yeti!!
November 3, 2025
Meet Brody + Piper 💕
This was my first book by this author, and I must say, I absolutely loved it! It gave me all the Christmas vibes I needed.
I loved the characters and how well their development was written. Evie truly knows how to write. Her descriptions are so beautiful and vivid. Even the smallest details are brought to life perfectly, making it feel like a literal movie playing in your head.
The way she captured the characters’ emotions in every scene was incredible. It honestly felt like I was right there with them, in the same room, feeling everything they felt.
✨ Tropes ✨
📖 First Person POV
🚫 Fake Dating
🛏️ One Bed
🎄 Christmas Season
🌶️ Spicy
🔥 Slow Burn
Book Cover ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Would I recommend this book to you? Yes
Expected Release Date: 11/07/2025
Thank you to BookSirens and Author Evie Alexander for the ebook. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This was my first book by this author, and I must say, I absolutely loved it! It gave me all the Christmas vibes I needed.
I loved the characters and how well their development was written. Evie truly knows how to write. Her descriptions are so beautiful and vivid. Even the smallest details are brought to life perfectly, making it feel like a literal movie playing in your head.
The way she captured the characters’ emotions in every scene was incredible. It honestly felt like I was right there with them, in the same room, feeling everything they felt.
✨ Tropes ✨
📖 First Person POV
🚫 Fake Dating
🛏️ One Bed
🎄 Christmas Season
🌶️ Spicy
🔥 Slow Burn
Book Cover ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Would I recommend this book to you? Yes
Expected Release Date: 11/07/2025
Thank you to BookSirens and Author Evie Alexander for the ebook. All thoughts in this review are my own.
October 6, 2025
Thank you so much, Evie Alexander, for the advance reader copy of The Holiday Fakers!
It had everything I could have wanted from a small-town Christmas romance sugar, spice 🔥, and everything nice plus a few edge-of-my-seat moments!
I devoured this book and then listened to the audiobook, an exceptional performance. I can’t recommend Evie’s writing enough.
Thank you again, Evie, for another unforgettable 5-star read! ❤️🎄✨
It had everything I could have wanted from a small-town Christmas romance sugar, spice 🔥, and everything nice plus a few edge-of-my-seat moments!
I devoured this book and then listened to the audiobook, an exceptional performance. I can’t recommend Evie’s writing enough.
Thank you again, Evie, for another unforgettable 5-star read! ❤️🎄✨
December 17, 2025
First of all, thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book—in ebook and audiobook formats—in exchange for an honest review. ❣️
This was such a fun, cozy, and very on-brand holiday read for me—and I have to say, I loved the audiobook. It added so much to the experience and made the story even more immersive, especially when it came to the banter and emotional beats. Definitely one of those audiobooks that makes everyday moments feel a little more festive. 💃
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘍𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘳𝘴 gave exactly what I was craving at the time: fake dating, small-town Christmas vibes, second-chance feelings, and just enough steam to keep things interesting without taking away from the heart of the story. ✨️
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Piper and Brody. The fake relationship felt natural, not forced, and the history between them added emotional weight to all the pretending and banter. I loved how their connection slowly shifted from “this is just for show” to something deeper—those quieter moments and realizations were my favorite parts. 🥹 The small-town setting also did a lot of the work in creating that cozy holiday atmosphere; it genuinely felt like a Christmas rom-com in book form. 🎄
That said, there were a few moments where things felt a little over the top or slightly rushed toward the end, which is why this sits at four stars for me instead of five. Still, it didn't take away from how enjoyable the overall experience was—especially in audio. 🙂↕️
Overall, this was such a lovely holiday read. If you're in the mood for fake dating, festive chaos, and second chances wrapped in a cozy Christmas bow, this one is definitely worth adding to your holiday TBR. 💖
This was such a fun, cozy, and very on-brand holiday read for me—and I have to say, I loved the audiobook. It added so much to the experience and made the story even more immersive, especially when it came to the banter and emotional beats. Definitely one of those audiobooks that makes everyday moments feel a little more festive. 💃
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘍𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘳𝘴 gave exactly what I was craving at the time: fake dating, small-town Christmas vibes, second-chance feelings, and just enough steam to keep things interesting without taking away from the heart of the story. ✨️
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Piper and Brody. The fake relationship felt natural, not forced, and the history between them added emotional weight to all the pretending and banter. I loved how their connection slowly shifted from “this is just for show” to something deeper—those quieter moments and realizations were my favorite parts. 🥹 The small-town setting also did a lot of the work in creating that cozy holiday atmosphere; it genuinely felt like a Christmas rom-com in book form. 🎄
That said, there were a few moments where things felt a little over the top or slightly rushed toward the end, which is why this sits at four stars for me instead of five. Still, it didn't take away from how enjoyable the overall experience was—especially in audio. 🙂↕️
Overall, this was such a lovely holiday read. If you're in the mood for fake dating, festive chaos, and second chances wrapped in a cozy Christmas bow, this one is definitely worth adding to your holiday TBR. 💖
September 16, 2025
I was lucky enough to be one of the ARC readers for this book. LOVED IT!!! Has you laughing, crying (only a little), and some amazing steamy sections!!
Love the fact that they were both in love with each other since they were teens. HEA guaranteed!
Read this one for a feel good, steamy holiday love story!!!
Love the fact that they were both in love with each other since they were teens. HEA guaranteed!
Read this one for a feel good, steamy holiday love story!!!
November 8, 2025
This is the 2nd book in an interconnected series of standalone novels that all take place in the same small town. I'd recommend this if you are in the mood for a holiday second chance romance with fake dating, only one bed, and plenty of spice.
Overall, I rate it 4⭐out of 5 based on the following: 🤩Enjoyment - 4; 👥Characters - 4; 📖Plot - 3; 🗺️Setting - 4; and🖋️Writing - 4 with the first 3 categories being most important.
What worked for me:
• The chemistry between Brody and Piper
• The small town atmosphere
• No third act breakup
Finished Reading
11/07/2025
I received an early copy of this book from the author; however, all opinions are my own
Overall, I rate it 4⭐out of 5 based on the following: 🤩Enjoyment - 4; 👥Characters - 4; 📖Plot - 3; 🗺️Setting - 4; and🖋️Writing - 4 with the first 3 categories being most important.
What worked for me:
• The chemistry between Brody and Piper
• The small town atmosphere
• No third act breakup
Finished Reading
11/07/2025
I received an early copy of this book from the author; however, all opinions are my own
October 25, 2025
A perfect Christmastime escape opportunity, well written and entertaining, ending in a HEA.
The dialogues are some of the best parts, and the characters are a good fit for the start of a series - I will definitely want to meet them again in the next books.
An enjoyable, heart-warming read.
I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The dialogues are some of the best parts, and the characters are a good fit for the start of a series - I will definitely want to meet them again in the next books.
An enjoyable, heart-warming read.
I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 22, 2025
The Holiday Fakers
Who doesn't love a fake relationship? Especially when you know that both the main characters actually truly love each other. This book is sooo good. The second book in the 'Christmas at Hideaway Harbor' series, but it can be read as a stand alone. Although, reading it as part of the series is so much better.
Brody is a well known Hollywood actor whose career is on a downward trajectory. Piper is looking at the possibility of losing her job in the new year. Fate, or is it, brings them together after 12 years and they return to their hometown as a couple. Him for good publicity and her due to a lie to her family. Will they finally tell each other how they feel?
Evie has written a beautiful story that has you begging for these two to open their eyes and their hearts to see and feel what is right in front of them. A love that could define them and give them the rest of their lives together.
Not only do we have the fun shenanigans of the Christmas mayhem of Hideaway Harbor and the craziness of Piper's family but we also have the discussions of addiction and the loss of loved ones. All of this is covered sensitively and with great care. Not to mention the chemistry these two share and don't even with the spice, when it arrives
Another great addition in this series and I can highly recommend.
Who doesn't love a fake relationship? Especially when you know that both the main characters actually truly love each other. This book is sooo good. The second book in the 'Christmas at Hideaway Harbor' series, but it can be read as a stand alone. Although, reading it as part of the series is so much better.
Brody is a well known Hollywood actor whose career is on a downward trajectory. Piper is looking at the possibility of losing her job in the new year. Fate, or is it, brings them together after 12 years and they return to their hometown as a couple. Him for good publicity and her due to a lie to her family. Will they finally tell each other how they feel?
Evie has written a beautiful story that has you begging for these two to open their eyes and their hearts to see and feel what is right in front of them. A love that could define them and give them the rest of their lives together.
Not only do we have the fun shenanigans of the Christmas mayhem of Hideaway Harbor and the craziness of Piper's family but we also have the discussions of addiction and the loss of loved ones. All of this is covered sensitively and with great care. Not to mention the chemistry these two share and don't even with the spice, when it arrives
Another great addition in this series and I can highly recommend.
October 30, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this Holiday romcom! The chemistry between the two main characters was incredible, and both characters were clearly warm-hearted and devoted to one another.
The Locke family were truly a lovely, warm bunch of characters, and their home in Hideaway Harbour made for such a wholesome holiday setting. I also loved that Christmas wasn't the foremost theme in the novel, and we were instead focussed on the family dynamics. Though I did also love the Wintery scenes!
Once I started, I simply couldn't put it down. I'd highly recommend for anyone looking for a cosy, wintery romance.
I am very grateful to have received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Locke family were truly a lovely, warm bunch of characters, and their home in Hideaway Harbour made for such a wholesome holiday setting. I also loved that Christmas wasn't the foremost theme in the novel, and we were instead focussed on the family dynamics. Though I did also love the Wintery scenes!
Once I started, I simply couldn't put it down. I'd highly recommend for anyone looking for a cosy, wintery romance.
I am very grateful to have received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
Okay, I��m not going to lie. I signed up to ARC read this book because it had the element of Christmas. And I’m a total pushover for anything holiday. But I’m so glad that I was chosen to read this because it was an absolute blast. The small town wins me over every time. And Piper and Brody were the perfect pair for this story.
Piper tells her mom she’s bringing home a boyfriend for the holidays, except she doesn’t exactly have one. Enter Brody, Hollywood extraordinaire, gets picked to play the role. But now they’re sharing a bed. She’s still got feelings for him, and doesn’t want to get hurt again.
He has feelings for her, but knows he can’t stay.
This book was filled with so much fun and lol moments. It pulls you in with the love they both have for one another but won’t tell the other about. This was a sweet and cozy read, with some spice, witty banter, and a whole lot i cute Christmas fun.
Piper tells her mom she’s bringing home a boyfriend for the holidays, except she doesn’t exactly have one. Enter Brody, Hollywood extraordinaire, gets picked to play the role. But now they’re sharing a bed. She’s still got feelings for him, and doesn’t want to get hurt again.
He has feelings for her, but knows he can’t stay.
This book was filled with so much fun and lol moments. It pulls you in with the love they both have for one another but won’t tell the other about. This was a sweet and cozy read, with some spice, witty banter, and a whole lot i cute Christmas fun.
October 21, 2025
This book and audiobook are the perfect Christmas book treats! The festive vibes, small town charm, and fake dating had me hooked from the start, I devoured it. I swapped between the audiobook and the book effortlessly! The tension between the leads is soooo good, and their backstory had me all anxious for them.
This author has a gift for writing humor, heartbreak, and spice. I laughed out loud and cried (yes, cried!), no spoilers but woah the author got me good. The narration brought the characters to life, and I loved the chemistry between them, helped me even more feel like I was there in Hideaway Harbour!!
The fake dating trope is always a winner, but the added twist of their history and one bed, took it to a whole new level. Brody and Piper are perfection, and their romance is so real, sweet and sexy. I loved Piper’s family and all the roles they played in the book, so much depth. I adored it, 5 stars.
This author has a gift for writing humor, heartbreak, and spice. I laughed out loud and cried (yes, cried!), no spoilers but woah the author got me good. The narration brought the characters to life, and I loved the chemistry between them, helped me even more feel like I was there in Hideaway Harbour!!
The fake dating trope is always a winner, but the added twist of their history and one bed, took it to a whole new level. Brody and Piper are perfection, and their romance is so real, sweet and sexy. I loved Piper’s family and all the roles they played in the book, so much depth. I adored it, 5 stars.
November 10, 2025
I enjoyed this audiobook! The narration was great. The book kept getting better and better as it went on (in my opinion). My favorite character was Martha, she was so adorable and sassy! The way the book was written made it feel like I was right there in hideaway harbor! I did laugh several times while reading this book. There is even some suspense in this book which kept me up late one night! I did get an advanced listening copy, but my review is unbiased!
December 12, 2025
I received this as an arc/alc from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was an amazing fake relationship romance. It was so well written and quite different from what I have previously read by this author but I loved it, it was my favorite book but her yet. The small town vibe of the story was a great setting and I adored the characters both main and minor. Piper and Brody had a lot of history and I loved that they had that connection. They had amazing chemistry and I just loved them. I really hope to get more stories by this author set in this small town.
Audiobook review: This was the first time I’ve listened to an audiobook by this author where she didn’t self-narrate and though I did miss listening to her narrate, it was a wonderful listening experience. The narrators were well matched and really made the characters come alive for me.
This was an amazing fake relationship romance. It was so well written and quite different from what I have previously read by this author but I loved it, it was my favorite book but her yet. The small town vibe of the story was a great setting and I adored the characters both main and minor. Piper and Brody had a lot of history and I loved that they had that connection. They had amazing chemistry and I just loved them. I really hope to get more stories by this author set in this small town.
Audiobook review: This was the first time I’ve listened to an audiobook by this author where she didn’t self-narrate and though I did miss listening to her narrate, it was a wonderful listening experience. The narrators were well matched and really made the characters come alive for me.
November 3, 2025
My first book by Evie Alexander and definitely won't be my last. Hideaway Harbor is fast becoming my favorite little village by the sea with each story I read. While they are all standalone's with the individual authors own brand of storytelling, they begin to form a true vision of this wonderful little town and the love that is held within it. Brody and Piper were at one time the best of pals (Brody was best friends with her older brother). Circumstances changed and 12 years later, they find themselves in each other's orbits and a chance at, dare I say, happiness? love? friendship? Brody has a few crosses to bear and some cracks to mend. Is he built for being back in his hometown where he felt unworthy? The town, as always, comes together in many different ways to help each other and our fake dating couple to help them see that perhaps, they are meant to be. I need to read Ethan's story soon because he absolutely intrigued me.
November 17, 2025
4.5 stars rounding up. Fake dating brothers best friend at Christmas?? Yes please! This small town romance has perfect festive moments with plenty of prying side characters. I loved the dynamic, chemistry and banter between Brody and Piper. And Piper’s mom had the best lines! If you want a fantastic Christmas romance with a bit of spice, don’t pass this one up!
October 12, 2025
Truly the perfect holiday romance to kick off the season. I’m an Evie Alexander fan already, and this just solidifies that.
I really liked both Brody and Piper as characters, and liked how Alexander builds their relationship. It by no means felt rushed, but it even more so felt much more developed because we know that these two have grown up together and already have a strong base as friends. It all fit together very well to make their romance feel more real.
I also loved the side characters and all their hijinks. Piper’s mom especially is quite the little menace with all her antics to get Brody and Piper together. This being the first of the Hideaway Harbor books that I’ve read, I was kinda hoping that the other books would star some of Piper’s siblings. It seems not, but maybe that just means that Evie Alexander will write more books in the future about them? (Pretty please??)
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that this book brings the spice. Like a lot. And very satisfying. Trust me, you will not be disappointed with that 😉
As far as the plot goes, I could not have been more happy with how it all turned out. I really, really, really dislike a third act breakup in a romance novel and have only found a few that do it well. I was so glad to see that in this book, when Piper and Brody have an issue with miscommunication, they act like adults and actually talk to each other and immediately sort it out. What a concept! I was so worried for a second because I felt that breakup brewing, and then when it didn’t happen it was the biggest relief. I also really appreciated how the conflict of Piper and Brody fitting their lives together was solved. It came together very nicely.
Finally, I have to give an extra shout out because I ended up listening to most of the book on audio. Willa James and Grayson Owen’s did such a good job narrating, I loved how they brought the characters to life.
Many thanks to Evie Alexander for the chance to read this book in advance. I am happy to leave this honest review.
I really liked both Brody and Piper as characters, and liked how Alexander builds their relationship. It by no means felt rushed, but it even more so felt much more developed because we know that these two have grown up together and already have a strong base as friends. It all fit together very well to make their romance feel more real.
I also loved the side characters and all their hijinks. Piper’s mom especially is quite the little menace with all her antics to get Brody and Piper together. This being the first of the Hideaway Harbor books that I’ve read, I was kinda hoping that the other books would star some of Piper’s siblings. It seems not, but maybe that just means that Evie Alexander will write more books in the future about them? (Pretty please??)
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that this book brings the spice. Like a lot. And very satisfying. Trust me, you will not be disappointed with that 😉
As far as the plot goes, I could not have been more happy with how it all turned out. I really, really, really dislike a third act breakup in a romance novel and have only found a few that do it well. I was so glad to see that in this book, when Piper and Brody have an issue with miscommunication, they act like adults and actually talk to each other and immediately sort it out. What a concept! I was so worried for a second because I felt that breakup brewing, and then when it didn’t happen it was the biggest relief. I also really appreciated how the conflict of Piper and Brody fitting their lives together was solved. It came together very nicely.
Finally, I have to give an extra shout out because I ended up listening to most of the book on audio. Willa James and Grayson Owen’s did such a good job narrating, I loved how they brought the characters to life.
Many thanks to Evie Alexander for the chance to read this book in advance. I am happy to leave this honest review.
November 7, 2025
This is part of a collection of Holiday stories by various authors, so be sure to grab the others.
I’m a fan of this author, so I eagerly started reading this book, expecting it to be just as emotionally engaging as her other books, which I’ve loved. New readers should pick up this book first, then delve into the author’s complete collection!
Brody didn’t look back as he chased fame, leaving his hometown, best friend, and found family. He needs a reset, and the key to fixing things seems to be everything he left behind, particularly Piper.
Piper is also experiencing career and personal life stress that might be eased by Brody’s presence, so an agreement is reached, and they return to their hometown as a couple, albeit a “false” one. However, keeping up appearances will be difficult when their childhood attraction reemerges. Since the public is always watching, any slip-up is impossible in the “fake relationship” that’s actually not. Luckily, it doesn’t take too long for them to realize what everyone else sees, and commit to eachother - for real.
It includes a mix of humor and angst, intense chemistry, Christmas energies and traditions, overcoming emotional scars, the warmth of chosen family, fun small-town scenarios, and a perfect happy ending. This was easy to connect with, and I appreciated the way Piper's family enveloped Brody, and how things settled out for Piper. I could not turn the pages fast enough!! :)
I recommend adding this to your TBR and preordering it.
I was fortunate to have received an ARC (thank you), and my thoughts are my own.
I’m a fan of this author, so I eagerly started reading this book, expecting it to be just as emotionally engaging as her other books, which I’ve loved. New readers should pick up this book first, then delve into the author’s complete collection!
Brody didn’t look back as he chased fame, leaving his hometown, best friend, and found family. He needs a reset, and the key to fixing things seems to be everything he left behind, particularly Piper.
Piper is also experiencing career and personal life stress that might be eased by Brody’s presence, so an agreement is reached, and they return to their hometown as a couple, albeit a “false” one. However, keeping up appearances will be difficult when their childhood attraction reemerges. Since the public is always watching, any slip-up is impossible in the “fake relationship” that’s actually not. Luckily, it doesn’t take too long for them to realize what everyone else sees, and commit to eachother - for real.
It includes a mix of humor and angst, intense chemistry, Christmas energies and traditions, overcoming emotional scars, the warmth of chosen family, fun small-town scenarios, and a perfect happy ending. This was easy to connect with, and I appreciated the way Piper's family enveloped Brody, and how things settled out for Piper. I could not turn the pages fast enough!! :)
I recommend adding this to your TBR and preordering it.
I was fortunate to have received an ARC (thank you), and my thoughts are my own.
October 16, 2025
I was very lucky to be gifted an ARC for this book. I loved every minute of it! This story is such a magical ride right through. The perfect mix of holiday season joy, romance and everything in between! I loved getting to know Piper and Brody along the way and the town of hideaway. Thank you Evie for such a wonderful book.
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