What do you think?
Rate this book
Very Much in Love #4
A Very Fake Play
He’s my ex-boyfriend’s hockey legend stepdad and completely off limits.
The first time I met Kazimir Lindström, there was no forgetting the grumpy NHL All-Star legend’s blue eyes or the permanent sexy scowl that creased his thick eyebrows.
When the universe throws him back into my life a year later, I’m at my lowest. Broke. Jobless. And without a home.
On the heels of a nasty divorce that turned into a PR disaster, the 6’4” tattooed, brooding grump needs an image rehab.
The outrageous proposals that drop from his kissable lips leave me jaw-dropped. My ex-boyfriend’s stepdad wants me to be his fake girlfriend. And he offers me a position as his social media manager. And he wants me to move in with him?
My bank balance is too anemic to refuse his offers. As long as we don’t blur our carefully drawn lines, I can pull this off…
Life with Kaz is so idyllic, I gaslight myself into believing a girl like me—born into a family of thieves—can rewire her trailer trash DNA, and this fairytale can be my forever when I’m still holding onto a dark secret. One that if exposed, could ruin Kaz’s reputation.
USA Today Bestselling Author Scarlett Avery brings you a whirlwind of a sizzling hockey romance between a boy-obsessed (he falls first) who’s been dealing with abandonment issues his whole life and a woman who’s down on her luck and convinced she doesn’t deserve love because of her family’s sins.
The first time I met Kazimir Lindström, there was no forgetting the grumpy NHL All-Star legend’s blue eyes or the permanent sexy scowl that creased his thick eyebrows.
When the universe throws him back into my life a year later, I’m at my lowest. Broke. Jobless. And without a home.
On the heels of a nasty divorce that turned into a PR disaster, the 6’4” tattooed, brooding grump needs an image rehab.
The outrageous proposals that drop from his kissable lips leave me jaw-dropped. My ex-boyfriend’s stepdad wants me to be his fake girlfriend. And he offers me a position as his social media manager. And he wants me to move in with him?
My bank balance is too anemic to refuse his offers. As long as we don’t blur our carefully drawn lines, I can pull this off…
Life with Kaz is so idyllic, I gaslight myself into believing a girl like me—born into a family of thieves—can rewire her trailer trash DNA, and this fairytale can be my forever when I’m still holding onto a dark secret. One that if exposed, could ruin Kaz’s reputation.
USA Today Bestselling Author Scarlett Avery brings you a whirlwind of a sizzling hockey romance between a boy-obsessed (he falls first) who’s been dealing with abandonment issues his whole life and a woman who’s down on her luck and convinced she doesn’t deserve love because of her family’s sins.
484 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2025
45 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Scarlett Avery
78 books1,372 followersBestselling Amazon Author Scarlett Avery’s Book Boyfriends aren’t like ANY others you’ve ever cuddled to before.
These dirty-talking, DOMINEERING, saucy seducers will make you forget all the other ones. Yeah, Scarlett’s Alpha Males are that DANGEROUSLY HOT!
Be warned: Her books have been dubbed, “Epic & Mind-Blowing”! This Canadian romance author’s books will melt your e-readers and they will leave you on the edge of your seat!
I dare you to discover how SIZZLING they REALLY ARE...
P.S.: Once you 1-click Scarlett’s books, there’s NO going back!
These dirty-talking, DOMINEERING, saucy seducers will make you forget all the other ones. Yeah, Scarlett’s Alpha Males are that DANGEROUSLY HOT!
Be warned: Her books have been dubbed, “Epic & Mind-Blowing”! This Canadian romance author’s books will melt your e-readers and they will leave you on the edge of your seat!
I dare you to discover how SIZZLING they REALLY ARE...
P.S.: Once you 1-click Scarlett’s books, there’s NO going back!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
November 9, 2025
3 stars.
"A Very Fake Play" by Scarlett Avery has an interesting premise and a ton of tropes I love (age gap, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity), but I don't think the chemistry between the main characters is sufficiently there to get readers invested in their relationship as a whole. The story is fine, but I feel like I needed more from this pairing. I like the way Kaz (mmc) takes care of and wants to worship Harley (fmc), especially after her terrible life and experiences with her exes, but without the chemistry I crave from a story like this, it just sort of felt.....there???? Kaz is the perfect book boyfriend despite his clear "Roy Kent" attitude and grumpiness on the outside. The daddy/d0m stuff was a bit much at times, not because it made me uncomfortable, no no, but because it repeats itself over and over. A lot of this book feels repetitive. This book felt very insta-lust-y despite the characters orbiting each other in the past. Several lines in this book made me absolutely cringe and want to bury myself deep into the floor from embarrassment. One line about "throbbing cr0tch rocket" made me gasp with how bad it was. Honestly, it feels like the spice was written first and the story sprang out of the spice. It felt a bit..... pedestrian?? There is a lot of external drama surrounding Kaz and Harley, too, some of which gets started but is written off in a casual manner or completely dropped from the story entirely. All in all, a mixed bag for me. I will still give this author another chance in the future.
Thank you to Scarlett Avery and Love Notes PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"A Very Fake Play" by Scarlett Avery has an interesting premise and a ton of tropes I love (age gap, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity), but I don't think the chemistry between the main characters is sufficiently there to get readers invested in their relationship as a whole. The story is fine, but I feel like I needed more from this pairing. I like the way Kaz (mmc) takes care of and wants to worship Harley (fmc), especially after her terrible life and experiences with her exes, but without the chemistry I crave from a story like this, it just sort of felt.....there???? Kaz is the perfect book boyfriend despite his clear "Roy Kent" attitude and grumpiness on the outside. The daddy/d0m stuff was a bit much at times, not because it made me uncomfortable, no no, but because it repeats itself over and over. A lot of this book feels repetitive. This book felt very insta-lust-y despite the characters orbiting each other in the past. Several lines in this book made me absolutely cringe and want to bury myself deep into the floor from embarrassment. One line about "throbbing cr0tch rocket" made me gasp with how bad it was. Honestly, it feels like the spice was written first and the story sprang out of the spice. It felt a bit..... pedestrian?? There is a lot of external drama surrounding Kaz and Harley, too, some of which gets started but is written off in a casual manner or completely dropped from the story entirely. All in all, a mixed bag for me. I will still give this author another chance in the future.
Thank you to Scarlett Avery and Love Notes PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
October 27, 2025
e-ARC review ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
thank you Loves NotesPR 💕,
When I picked up this book, honestly, it was because the cover caught my eye and the tropes? Chef’s kiss. Ex–stepdad of your ex-boyfriend, age gap (she’s 27, he’s 39), former hockey player, forbidden romance… juicy, right?
What no one mentioned is that this book also had total rom-com energy. It was hilarious! The banter was great, the story had a bit of a slow burn, and the dynamic between the main characters? So fun. This was my first book by this author, but definitely not my last. If I had to compare it to something, I’d say it’s like a modern, comedic Cinderella retelling only with more tension, more laughter, and, well… more spice.
The chemistry between them was amazing, the spicy scenes were perfect, and there was zero unnecessary drama. He’s a man who knows what he wants, and she’s a woman who’s been through a lot but still stands strong. And that little mystery subplot? Oh, the tea! It totally got me.
Overall, this was such a fun, addictive read, equal parts funny, steamy, and heartwarming. If you’re reading my review, I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
thank you Loves NotesPR 💕,
When I picked up this book, honestly, it was because the cover caught my eye and the tropes? Chef’s kiss. Ex–stepdad of your ex-boyfriend, age gap (she’s 27, he’s 39), former hockey player, forbidden romance… juicy, right?
What no one mentioned is that this book also had total rom-com energy. It was hilarious! The banter was great, the story had a bit of a slow burn, and the dynamic between the main characters? So fun. This was my first book by this author, but definitely not my last. If I had to compare it to something, I’d say it’s like a modern, comedic Cinderella retelling only with more tension, more laughter, and, well… more spice.
The chemistry between them was amazing, the spicy scenes were perfect, and there was zero unnecessary drama. He’s a man who knows what he wants, and she’s a woman who’s been through a lot but still stands strong. And that little mystery subplot? Oh, the tea! It totally got me.
Overall, this was such a fun, addictive read, equal parts funny, steamy, and heartwarming. If you’re reading my review, I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
November 3, 2025
1.5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
I really wanted to like this book but the deeper I dug the more I disliked it. I should’ve DNF’d but I wanted to learn Harley’s backstory. What secrets she was keeping. I think the idea of the plot line that is marketed was a great idea but the fruition didn’t necessarily click for me. I think the characters have great chemistry and you can imagine their relationship but I personally didn’t feel any connection. I felt like some chapters lacked cohesion from one to the next. Like one chapter would just end abruptly and start somewhere else in the next chapter. Additionally, I felt like Harley’s family issue was over hyped throughout the story before truly finding out what was bothering her. There were also quite a few cringey moments throughout the book, mostly by the MMC. Some comments felt very teenager like and not a 39 year old man it was weird. I think the story line had potential but needs some cleaning up. There were also a lot of British phrases or slang in there that didn’t necessarily fit the premise of the book especially if both characters were meant to be New Yorkers. As a born and raised New Yorker, I would’ve loved to have seen more slang or phrases or terms that we would say. The epilogue was very sweet though. I absolutely adored that. I will end with this, please don’t take my review to heart because I think this book could be loved by the right audience, for me personally it didn’t work out and thats ok. Not every book is for everyone, we all have different opinions or views, we don’t all have to like the same thing. 🤷🏻♀️
I really wanted to like this book but the deeper I dug the more I disliked it. I should’ve DNF’d but I wanted to learn Harley’s backstory. What secrets she was keeping. I think the idea of the plot line that is marketed was a great idea but the fruition didn’t necessarily click for me. I think the characters have great chemistry and you can imagine their relationship but I personally didn’t feel any connection. I felt like some chapters lacked cohesion from one to the next. Like one chapter would just end abruptly and start somewhere else in the next chapter. Additionally, I felt like Harley’s family issue was over hyped throughout the story before truly finding out what was bothering her. There were also quite a few cringey moments throughout the book, mostly by the MMC. Some comments felt very teenager like and not a 39 year old man it was weird. I think the story line had potential but needs some cleaning up. There were also a lot of British phrases or slang in there that didn’t necessarily fit the premise of the book especially if both characters were meant to be New Yorkers. As a born and raised New Yorker, I would’ve loved to have seen more slang or phrases or terms that we would say. The epilogue was very sweet though. I absolutely adored that. I will end with this, please don’t take my review to heart because I think this book could be loved by the right audience, for me personally it didn’t work out and thats ok. Not every book is for everyone, we all have different opinions or views, we don’t all have to like the same thing. 🤷🏻♀️
November 11, 2025
ARC REVIEW a very fake play by
This was a first book by this author and I throughly enjoyed myself 💕
If you know me you know i LOVE my hockey romances and this one was no different.
Harley was dealt a bit of a crap hand she was determined to make things better for herself and change things in her life
Kaz This man knew what he wanted and went after it and that was Harley 💕💕
The spicy this book was so hot like so so hot I needed a fan 😂😂😂😂😂
This was my first book by this author and it definitely will not be my last. I definitely want to read the backlist and especially the rest of this particular series..
Thank you to booksbyscarlett.avery and lovenotes.pr for an arc of this book I appreciate it 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a first book by this author and I throughly enjoyed myself 💕
If you know me you know i LOVE my hockey romances and this one was no different.
Harley was dealt a bit of a crap hand she was determined to make things better for herself and change things in her life
Kaz This man knew what he wanted and went after it and that was Harley 💕💕
The spicy this book was so hot like so so hot I needed a fan 😂😂😂😂😂
This was my first book by this author and it definitely will not be my last. I definitely want to read the backlist and especially the rest of this particular series..
Thank you to booksbyscarlett.avery and lovenotes.pr for an arc of this book I appreciate it 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 6, 2025
4.5* - Rounded up to 5...
Harley is SERIOUSLY down on her luck. I mean - this is INTENSE bad karma level stuff! And then, she runs into Kaz - her ex's ex-stepdad. And Kaz helps her turn her world around. As we watch him help her up, we learn that he's been infatuated since he met her, and we see her light up his grumpy, and actually get him to smile.
This is nice and spicy, and is a lovely fake-dating story with a stunning HEA, where Harley and Kaz bring out the best in each other, and where Kaz truly helps Harley realise her full potential, without expecting anything in return...
I received a free copy of this book through Love Notes PR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Harley is SERIOUSLY down on her luck. I mean - this is INTENSE bad karma level stuff! And then, she runs into Kaz - her ex's ex-stepdad. And Kaz helps her turn her world around. As we watch him help her up, we learn that he's been infatuated since he met her, and we see her light up his grumpy, and actually get him to smile.
This is nice and spicy, and is a lovely fake-dating story with a stunning HEA, where Harley and Kaz bring out the best in each other, and where Kaz truly helps Harley realise her full potential, without expecting anything in return...
I received a free copy of this book through Love Notes PR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2025
I received an ARC of this book through Love Notes PR.
Kaz and Harley are a grumpy/ sunshine couple, including ex-boyfriend’s stepdad, hockey boyfriend, fake dating, and age gap tropes.
This book was cute, spicy, and sweet. Loved the ending for all my bookish gals!
Kaz and Harley are a grumpy/ sunshine couple, including ex-boyfriend’s stepdad, hockey boyfriend, fake dating, and age gap tropes.
This book was cute, spicy, and sweet. Loved the ending for all my bookish gals!
October 29, 2025
thank you love notes pr and scarlett avery for the arc
the first 48% of this book i loved it
it was after the first sex scene that things went downhill. specifically the term “meaty c**k”
i think parts of the book were lacking and i couldn’t not get into the characters all that much
the first 48% of this book i loved it
it was after the first sex scene that things went downhill. specifically the term “meaty c**k”
i think parts of the book were lacking and i couldn’t not get into the characters all that much
November 9, 2025
ARC provided by LoveNotes PR in exchange for honest review.
A Very Fake Play is the story of down on her luck Harley, who runs into her ex's ex-stepdad, former NHL player Kaz, whilst she's in a bit of a fix at work. He steps in and saves the day, and when he realises that her landlord is spying on her and stealing from her, he whisks her off to stay with him. He quickly proposes an agreement - if she comes to work with him as his social media manager, they will fake date at the same time to improve his media profile, which is currently being trashed by his ex wife.What she doesn't know is that he's been obsessed with her since the moment he met her. But she's keeping secrets of her own as well. Will they be able to keep up the charade?
This is a delightful, spice heavy romcom that had me laughing out loud in some places, and my heart aching in others. Harley has really had it tough, having been fleeced out of her business and any capital, and is barely scraping by when Kaz makes another entrance into her life. She is stunned by his kindness from the second he rescues her from her awful apartment, be it the designer wardrobe he kits her out in for her first "assignment" as his fake girlfriend, or when he buys her anything you could possibly need when you're on your period - utterly adorable! She is constantly battling with a secret, one that literally gives her nightmares, but she throws herself into her new job with gusto, determined to help Kaz after all he's done for her. She knows she is falling for him, but never believes he could reciprocate those feelings. She is effervescent and sassy, despite her secret, and has a love for smutty literature that definitely heats things up between her and Kaz.
Kazimir Lindström is, quite frankly, a god amongst men. He has been through a messy divorce, and is still dreaming about his ex stepson's ex girlfriend when he comes across her in a sticky situation. After rescuing her, he knows he can't let her slip through his fingers, but also knows that he can't just admit that she's his dream girl, so he proposes the fake girlfriend scenario. He falls hard and fast, and treats her like an absolute queen. The grumpy grizzly bear is transformed in her presence, with a true cinnamon roll heart, and it's quickly clear that he'd do anything for her - he builds her a library with a ROLLING LADDER! He is absolute filth in the bedroom, and teaches her what real chemistry and pleasure can feel like. His reaction to her running away when her secret gets too much to bear is deliciously extra, and the final epilogue is a book obsessed girl's ultimate fantasy (I full on swooned!) Kaz is a fictional man to which standards must be held.
This novel is very well paced, I never found myself drifting away or feeling like things were moving too fast. It is plotted well, with the gossip blog entries providing the culture shock that it is still a fake dating situation at times when you were convinced they would scrap it. I felt for poor Kaz, who, with the exception of his recently passed Nana, had been surrounded by narcissistic scumbags, giving him little experience of the good that can come from personal relationships. His ex and her stepson were vile and more than a little unsettling with their relationship, and his father was gross. Harley breathes some fresh air into his personal life, and watching him open up to her is a joy. Whilst he lavishes gifts on Harley, it never feels like he is trying to buy her affection, which is a triumph for the writer - she could easily have fallen into that trap and ruined the story. Instead she conveys Kaz's generosity as a positive, highlighting Harley's character being a good person who is prepared to help him, and deserving of the finer things in life for that.
The build up to the revelation of Harley's secret is steady and subtle, making the final reveal punchy and impactful. Kaz's reaction once he finds out is measured and thoughtful, allowing for Harley to feel as she needs to, but reminding her that it doesn't make her anything less than the wonderful character she has been throughout the book, another slam dunk for the author - it doesn't feel glossed over or minimised, further highlighting how thoughtful and caring Kaz is.
The spice is super hot in this one, and my only criticism of the entire book is that at some points it felt as though the author hadn't necessarily read it aloud to test how it sounded - it felt a bit stilted and too "staged" to be genuinely something you'd expect to hear in the bedroom. However, Kaz and his talented tongue definitely had me hot under the collar.
A Very Fake Play is a brilliant romcom, packed full of tropes that were successfully executed, with a (mostly) gross supporting cast who highlighted the goodness of the two main characters, and brought a fiery heat that will etch into your memory. Great stuff by Scarlett Avery!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
A Very Fake Play is the story of down on her luck Harley, who runs into her ex's ex-stepdad, former NHL player Kaz, whilst she's in a bit of a fix at work. He steps in and saves the day, and when he realises that her landlord is spying on her and stealing from her, he whisks her off to stay with him. He quickly proposes an agreement - if she comes to work with him as his social media manager, they will fake date at the same time to improve his media profile, which is currently being trashed by his ex wife.What she doesn't know is that he's been obsessed with her since the moment he met her. But she's keeping secrets of her own as well. Will they be able to keep up the charade?
This is a delightful, spice heavy romcom that had me laughing out loud in some places, and my heart aching in others. Harley has really had it tough, having been fleeced out of her business and any capital, and is barely scraping by when Kaz makes another entrance into her life. She is stunned by his kindness from the second he rescues her from her awful apartment, be it the designer wardrobe he kits her out in for her first "assignment" as his fake girlfriend, or when he buys her anything you could possibly need when you're on your period - utterly adorable! She is constantly battling with a secret, one that literally gives her nightmares, but she throws herself into her new job with gusto, determined to help Kaz after all he's done for her. She knows she is falling for him, but never believes he could reciprocate those feelings. She is effervescent and sassy, despite her secret, and has a love for smutty literature that definitely heats things up between her and Kaz.
Kazimir Lindström is, quite frankly, a god amongst men. He has been through a messy divorce, and is still dreaming about his ex stepson's ex girlfriend when he comes across her in a sticky situation. After rescuing her, he knows he can't let her slip through his fingers, but also knows that he can't just admit that she's his dream girl, so he proposes the fake girlfriend scenario. He falls hard and fast, and treats her like an absolute queen. The grumpy grizzly bear is transformed in her presence, with a true cinnamon roll heart, and it's quickly clear that he'd do anything for her - he builds her a library with a ROLLING LADDER! He is absolute filth in the bedroom, and teaches her what real chemistry and pleasure can feel like. His reaction to her running away when her secret gets too much to bear is deliciously extra, and the final epilogue is a book obsessed girl's ultimate fantasy (I full on swooned!) Kaz is a fictional man to which standards must be held.
This novel is very well paced, I never found myself drifting away or feeling like things were moving too fast. It is plotted well, with the gossip blog entries providing the culture shock that it is still a fake dating situation at times when you were convinced they would scrap it. I felt for poor Kaz, who, with the exception of his recently passed Nana, had been surrounded by narcissistic scumbags, giving him little experience of the good that can come from personal relationships. His ex and her stepson were vile and more than a little unsettling with their relationship, and his father was gross. Harley breathes some fresh air into his personal life, and watching him open up to her is a joy. Whilst he lavishes gifts on Harley, it never feels like he is trying to buy her affection, which is a triumph for the writer - she could easily have fallen into that trap and ruined the story. Instead she conveys Kaz's generosity as a positive, highlighting Harley's character being a good person who is prepared to help him, and deserving of the finer things in life for that.
The build up to the revelation of Harley's secret is steady and subtle, making the final reveal punchy and impactful. Kaz's reaction once he finds out is measured and thoughtful, allowing for Harley to feel as she needs to, but reminding her that it doesn't make her anything less than the wonderful character she has been throughout the book, another slam dunk for the author - it doesn't feel glossed over or minimised, further highlighting how thoughtful and caring Kaz is.
The spice is super hot in this one, and my only criticism of the entire book is that at some points it felt as though the author hadn't necessarily read it aloud to test how it sounded - it felt a bit stilted and too "staged" to be genuinely something you'd expect to hear in the bedroom. However, Kaz and his talented tongue definitely had me hot under the collar.
A Very Fake Play is a brilliant romcom, packed full of tropes that were successfully executed, with a (mostly) gross supporting cast who highlighted the goodness of the two main characters, and brought a fiery heat that will etch into your memory. Great stuff by Scarlett Avery!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
November 5, 2025
A spicy rom com at its finest! Add in a retired hockey player and it is perfection! This book has something for everyone. One minute you'll be laughing and next you'll be crying. You'll be angry and then clenching your thighs together from a spicy scene. This book is highly entertaining and will keep the pages turning.
Kazimir Lindström was a retired hockey legend who had captained his team to multiple cups and Olympic gold. He made the successful transition from an award winning hockey career to restaurateur, owning several restaurants and a brewery. He was also highly involved in the charity he founded. He and his ex-wife had won the lottery, he donated his share of the winnings to charity. Kaz was a PR nightmare because he was a grump who was getting negative press because his ex-wife loved to spew lies and she had a toxic point of view the media loved to spin.
Harley was a down on her luck corporate florist who was now working as a waitress at a high end restaurant. She had previously dated Kaz's ex-stepson. Harley had business savvy but had been taken advantage of by a long list of people and had been hurt by even more. She was extremely hard working but knew nothing of hockey unless it was something she read in a Hockey romance novel.
Harley and Kaz had first met at his Hamptons beach house right before her relationship with his ex-wife's son ended. They enjoyed the time they spent together them and Kaz had been enamored with Harley. He couldn't completely get her out of his head. Several months passed before he saw her again, working in a friends restaurant and getting fired after a handsy customer created drama. Kaz came to her rescue but that interaction at the restaurant started all kinds of trouble for Kaz, though he was determined not to lose her again.
After a series of misfortunes, Harley felt defeated and that things couldn't get worse. Then a knock on her door, changed everything. Kaz to the rescue. He gave her a safe place to stay, and a new job. He also asked her to help with his PR nightmare by becoming his fake girlfriend. Giving the media something better to talk about instead of his ex-wife.
Kaz was happy to have Harley in his life even though that he knew that he was older and that some people may question their relationship based on her history with his ex-stepson. Whenever they stepped out together, he seemed lighter and happier than ever before. He enjoyed her company and they were highly compatible in and outside the bedroom. He made sure HR knew about their personal relationship before she took the social media expert role within his company.
Their best friends seemed genuinely happy for them even though their relationship started as fake. It was easy to see that it didn't stay fake for long. Those outside their inner circle, tried to create chaos for them. Family toxicity was forced to the forefront and addressed. Scenes were made but for the first time the media favored Kaz not his ex-wife or her unweaned son. The media attention was positive and it showed the softer side of the perpetual grump. They even were able to get a photo of an elusive smile, something they hadn't been able to do throughout his hockey career. As long as Kaz and Harley, continued to not let the outside noise ruin their love and happiness they would definitely get their HEA!
I loved Kaz, he was the perfect boyfriend making sure Harley had everything she needed and wanted. Harley was strong and fierce but she knew how to accept help when needed. She balanced Kaz well and gave him a reason to show who he really was not just his public persona. Thank you, Scarlett Avery and LoveNotesPR for the ARC! I loved this book and enjoyed every moment!
Kazimir Lindström was a retired hockey legend who had captained his team to multiple cups and Olympic gold. He made the successful transition from an award winning hockey career to restaurateur, owning several restaurants and a brewery. He was also highly involved in the charity he founded. He and his ex-wife had won the lottery, he donated his share of the winnings to charity. Kaz was a PR nightmare because he was a grump who was getting negative press because his ex-wife loved to spew lies and she had a toxic point of view the media loved to spin.
Harley was a down on her luck corporate florist who was now working as a waitress at a high end restaurant. She had previously dated Kaz's ex-stepson. Harley had business savvy but had been taken advantage of by a long list of people and had been hurt by even more. She was extremely hard working but knew nothing of hockey unless it was something she read in a Hockey romance novel.
Harley and Kaz had first met at his Hamptons beach house right before her relationship with his ex-wife's son ended. They enjoyed the time they spent together them and Kaz had been enamored with Harley. He couldn't completely get her out of his head. Several months passed before he saw her again, working in a friends restaurant and getting fired after a handsy customer created drama. Kaz came to her rescue but that interaction at the restaurant started all kinds of trouble for Kaz, though he was determined not to lose her again.
After a series of misfortunes, Harley felt defeated and that things couldn't get worse. Then a knock on her door, changed everything. Kaz to the rescue. He gave her a safe place to stay, and a new job. He also asked her to help with his PR nightmare by becoming his fake girlfriend. Giving the media something better to talk about instead of his ex-wife.
Kaz was happy to have Harley in his life even though that he knew that he was older and that some people may question their relationship based on her history with his ex-stepson. Whenever they stepped out together, he seemed lighter and happier than ever before. He enjoyed her company and they were highly compatible in and outside the bedroom. He made sure HR knew about their personal relationship before she took the social media expert role within his company.
Their best friends seemed genuinely happy for them even though their relationship started as fake. It was easy to see that it didn't stay fake for long. Those outside their inner circle, tried to create chaos for them. Family toxicity was forced to the forefront and addressed. Scenes were made but for the first time the media favored Kaz not his ex-wife or her unweaned son. The media attention was positive and it showed the softer side of the perpetual grump. They even were able to get a photo of an elusive smile, something they hadn't been able to do throughout his hockey career. As long as Kaz and Harley, continued to not let the outside noise ruin their love and happiness they would definitely get their HEA!
I loved Kaz, he was the perfect boyfriend making sure Harley had everything she needed and wanted. Harley was strong and fierce but she knew how to accept help when needed. She balanced Kaz well and gave him a reason to show who he really was not just his public persona. Thank you, Scarlett Avery and LoveNotesPR for the ARC! I loved this book and enjoyed every moment!
October 25, 2025
A very fake play: Scarlett Avery
Release date: 6th November 2025
🌤GrumpyXSunshine
🏒Hockey romance
🕰Age gap
↔️Forced proximity
🤭He falls first (and hard)
🌶Spicy
“You had me at the promise of what you’re packing. Everything after that was like pouring chocolate sauce on top of a decadent hot chocolate fudge cake.”
Harley didn't think her life could get any worse. After losing all her life savings, her house and her dreams, the last thing she expected was to run into her ex-boyfriends ex-stepdad: Kazimir Lindstöm. Who after witnessing her lose her job and finds out her superintendent is a peeping tom gives her a place to stay and a job. But then asks her to be his fake girlfriend to deceive the media into thinking he's not the grumpy stonecold ex hockey player his ex wife portrays him to be.
Kazimir Lindström, ex legendary hockey player has been secretly obsessed with Harley since the moment he met her: even though he only met her once. After seeing her again over a year later and sees she's fallen on hard times he decides to take his shot. After asking her to move in and giving her a job. He asks her to do the one question hes been avoiding doing with anyone else to stop his ex wife from carrying on tarnishing his name anymore. He asks her to be his fake girlfriend, only to secretly be hoping it'll turn into something more.
“Falling in love with you, Kaz, was like going blind into a book without reading the blurb, not knowing it will become your next book hangover and your fave read of all time.”
This book has everything that makes a good romance worth the read. The tension between the two main characters had me on edge that much that I couldn't help shout finally when they kissed for the first time. Its so fast paced that you can devour it in a few hours and not even realize until you hit the epilogue. And oh boy is the epilogue probably the great chapter throughout the book.
"This guy may be brooding, grumpy, and a man of few words, but he holds a PhD in dirty talking."
I loved both of the main characters especially Kaz. He researched periods and brought her books to help 🥹 the most sweetest thing every. He definitely has that 'i only smile for you vibe' which he does. Kaz has got to be added to my book boyfriend list not just for his secret papa bear attitude towards Harley but because oh my does he have a filthy mouth in the sheets 🤭 I couldn't help but blush when reading those scenes. He also build hers a library 🥹 I think i need a ex hockey player in my life 😂
"I’d like to devour something… and it isn’t romance books."
Harley is definitely one of my favorite characters that I've read about. Not only is she a bookworm, but she's the definition of a strong character who know matter what she endured she didn't let it get to her. She kept fighting. Her constant need to stick up for Kaz is amazing especially because of the height difference. She may be small but she is might. She is a spirited fireball.
Overall, the very fake play has got to be the easiest and the quickest 5 start read I've read in a while. Its perfect for those who want a fast paced romance and those who love the golden retriever vibe but is filthy is the sheets.
I'd like to thank the author for a chance to read and review this ARC 😊
Release date: 6th November 2025
🌤GrumpyXSunshine
🏒Hockey romance
🕰Age gap
↔️Forced proximity
🤭He falls first (and hard)
🌶Spicy
“You had me at the promise of what you’re packing. Everything after that was like pouring chocolate sauce on top of a decadent hot chocolate fudge cake.”
Harley didn't think her life could get any worse. After losing all her life savings, her house and her dreams, the last thing she expected was to run into her ex-boyfriends ex-stepdad: Kazimir Lindstöm. Who after witnessing her lose her job and finds out her superintendent is a peeping tom gives her a place to stay and a job. But then asks her to be his fake girlfriend to deceive the media into thinking he's not the grumpy stonecold ex hockey player his ex wife portrays him to be.
Kazimir Lindström, ex legendary hockey player has been secretly obsessed with Harley since the moment he met her: even though he only met her once. After seeing her again over a year later and sees she's fallen on hard times he decides to take his shot. After asking her to move in and giving her a job. He asks her to do the one question hes been avoiding doing with anyone else to stop his ex wife from carrying on tarnishing his name anymore. He asks her to be his fake girlfriend, only to secretly be hoping it'll turn into something more.
“Falling in love with you, Kaz, was like going blind into a book without reading the blurb, not knowing it will become your next book hangover and your fave read of all time.”
This book has everything that makes a good romance worth the read. The tension between the two main characters had me on edge that much that I couldn't help shout finally when they kissed for the first time. Its so fast paced that you can devour it in a few hours and not even realize until you hit the epilogue. And oh boy is the epilogue probably the great chapter throughout the book.
"This guy may be brooding, grumpy, and a man of few words, but he holds a PhD in dirty talking."
I loved both of the main characters especially Kaz. He researched periods and brought her books to help 🥹 the most sweetest thing every. He definitely has that 'i only smile for you vibe' which he does. Kaz has got to be added to my book boyfriend list not just for his secret papa bear attitude towards Harley but because oh my does he have a filthy mouth in the sheets 🤭 I couldn't help but blush when reading those scenes. He also build hers a library 🥹 I think i need a ex hockey player in my life 😂
"I’d like to devour something… and it isn’t romance books."
Harley is definitely one of my favorite characters that I've read about. Not only is she a bookworm, but she's the definition of a strong character who know matter what she endured she didn't let it get to her. She kept fighting. Her constant need to stick up for Kaz is amazing especially because of the height difference. She may be small but she is might. She is a spirited fireball.
Overall, the very fake play has got to be the easiest and the quickest 5 start read I've read in a while. Its perfect for those who want a fast paced romance and those who love the golden retriever vibe but is filthy is the sheets.
I'd like to thank the author for a chance to read and review this ARC 😊
November 14, 2025
ARC - 5 🌟 2 🌶️
🏒 Ex-boyfriend’s step dad
🩵 Workplace romance
🏒 Grumpy former nhl captain
🩵 Age gap
🏒 Slow burn
From page one, Kazimir clearly did not understand the assignment. This was supposed to be a fake relationship and this man walked in like, “Sure, we’ll pretend,” then immediately proceeded to act like Harley was his wife, soulmate, emotional support human, and five-year plan. Nothing, NOTHING, about his behavior was fake. He was obsessed from the jump. Kazimir is that perfect mix of dangerous-in-the-sheets energy and golden-retriever-for-HER vibes.
And Harley? Sweet, independent, trying-so-hard-to-be-normal Harley? She’s over here telling herself she’s just going along with the plan while simultaneously melting into a puddle every time Kazimir looks at her like she personally hung the moon. The way he watches her? The way he touches her? The way he’s basically like, “Breathing? Optional. Harley? Essential.” INSANE.
To the world, he is cold, controlled, big intimidating aura. To Harley “Do you need water? A foot rub? My last name? Because, baby, I can get you all three.” The man has it bad and doesn’t even pretend otherwise. And their chemistry?? Full-body, world-ending, tell-my-therapist-about-it levels. Their “fake dating” lasts maybe two seconds before it turns into “actually I would set buildings on fire to keep you safe, thanks.” Harley is trying to stay composed while Kazimir stands there being six feet of Russian obsession with a jawline sculpted by celestial beings.
But here’s the best part: underneath the heat is this steady, blooming realization that Harley isn’t just someone Kazimir wants, she’s someone he’s been claiming from page one. The devotion? The protectiveness? The little soft moments where he lets her see the real him? I ascended. Harley starts realizing, slowly but surely, that none of this has ever been fake for him. Every soft glance, every little touch, every “are you okay?” was real. She’s his sunshine, his peace, his softness.
And THEN we get the extra fluff, the tender, heart-squeezing moments that make you want to grab your chest. Big, intimidating Kazimir turns into a heart-eyed marshmallow anytime Harley laughs. He listens like every word she says is precious. He steps just a little too close because he literally cannot help himself. He remembers everything. He cares quietly, constantly.
Their relationship feels like finally getting permission to do what they both wanted all along, hold hands, be close, share smiles, exist in each other’s orbit. It’s tender. Warm. Cozy. The emotional equivalent of hot chocolate on a snowy day.
So yeah, if you want a romance where the only fake thing is the word “fake,” a hero who is obsessed in the most adorable way, and a heroine who learns she can be loved loudly and fiercely? This book will ruin you in the BEST way.
It’s big man soft for one girl + girl realizing she’s been cherished from the start = pure fluffy perfection.
Thank you Love Notes Pr for this arc opportunity!
🏒 Ex-boyfriend’s step dad
🩵 Workplace romance
🏒 Grumpy former nhl captain
🩵 Age gap
🏒 Slow burn
From page one, Kazimir clearly did not understand the assignment. This was supposed to be a fake relationship and this man walked in like, “Sure, we’ll pretend,” then immediately proceeded to act like Harley was his wife, soulmate, emotional support human, and five-year plan. Nothing, NOTHING, about his behavior was fake. He was obsessed from the jump. Kazimir is that perfect mix of dangerous-in-the-sheets energy and golden-retriever-for-HER vibes.
And Harley? Sweet, independent, trying-so-hard-to-be-normal Harley? She’s over here telling herself she’s just going along with the plan while simultaneously melting into a puddle every time Kazimir looks at her like she personally hung the moon. The way he watches her? The way he touches her? The way he’s basically like, “Breathing? Optional. Harley? Essential.” INSANE.
To the world, he is cold, controlled, big intimidating aura. To Harley “Do you need water? A foot rub? My last name? Because, baby, I can get you all three.” The man has it bad and doesn’t even pretend otherwise. And their chemistry?? Full-body, world-ending, tell-my-therapist-about-it levels. Their “fake dating” lasts maybe two seconds before it turns into “actually I would set buildings on fire to keep you safe, thanks.” Harley is trying to stay composed while Kazimir stands there being six feet of Russian obsession with a jawline sculpted by celestial beings.
But here’s the best part: underneath the heat is this steady, blooming realization that Harley isn’t just someone Kazimir wants, she’s someone he’s been claiming from page one. The devotion? The protectiveness? The little soft moments where he lets her see the real him? I ascended. Harley starts realizing, slowly but surely, that none of this has ever been fake for him. Every soft glance, every little touch, every “are you okay?” was real. She’s his sunshine, his peace, his softness.
And THEN we get the extra fluff, the tender, heart-squeezing moments that make you want to grab your chest. Big, intimidating Kazimir turns into a heart-eyed marshmallow anytime Harley laughs. He listens like every word she says is precious. He steps just a little too close because he literally cannot help himself. He remembers everything. He cares quietly, constantly.
Their relationship feels like finally getting permission to do what they both wanted all along, hold hands, be close, share smiles, exist in each other’s orbit. It’s tender. Warm. Cozy. The emotional equivalent of hot chocolate on a snowy day.
So yeah, if you want a romance where the only fake thing is the word “fake,” a hero who is obsessed in the most adorable way, and a heroine who learns she can be loved loudly and fiercely? This book will ruin you in the BEST way.
It’s big man soft for one girl + girl realizing she’s been cherished from the start = pure fluffy perfection.
Thank you Love Notes Pr for this arc opportunity!
November 7, 2025
“#BetterThanABookBoyfriend #HandNecklace #Smexy #BookScenes #HesA10.”
A fast paced age gap set in NYC. He is a retired hockey player; the “Roy Kent” of hockey. She is an ex-florist who has lost everything on a bad business deal and is living in a shoebox of an apartment with a peeping tom super. The MMC also just happens to be the ex-stepfather of her ex-boyfriend. If this sounds like the contemporary book for you - go for it!!!
👫 MF
🏒 retired hockey player
👬 ex-boyfriends ex-stepdad
💰 Billionaire Boss Vibes
🏠 He saves her
👩❤️👨 Fake dating
📱 Social media influencer
Now. If you have read this far, here is my personal opinion. Not every book is for everyone. You may just enjoy this read more than I did. ❤️
➡️ This is my first time reading and reviewing for this author. According to Amazon, the author is a well established, contemporary romance, author with thousands and thousands of positive reviews. This book is written like it’s done by a first time author not a well established romance writer. There are many inconsistencies that are red flags for me.
- Hockey references are off
- Fake dating his ex-stepson’s ex-girlfriend is suppose to HELP his image?
- The MMC talks and acts like a middle aged corporate CEO Daddy (40some-early 50s) not a 38 yr old retired hockey player
- Why is there 1/2 a chapter of architecture discussion? Is this a romance novel or an architecture digest article.
- The family drama of the FMC was unnecessary. MFC is already going through a crap time… she didn’t need more.
- MFC is written to be petite, with small feet, curves, and “heavy 🥥”.
- MFC is a “trained actress” but doesn’t act.
- The amount of side drama and crap that these characters are going through is BONKERS. I described the first 25% of the book to my bestie, she thought I was more than 50% of the way through.
ONE LAST THING: This “feels” like an “entry level naughty book”. 🌶️🌶️/5. The characters act like two adults just realizing they like to dirty talk and role play a little. It comes off a little awkward. “BDSM” is also a “hard no”; but 1/2 the stuff they engage in is considered a kink (spanking, daddy play, breath play etc…). I would expect some of this in a college level book, but not full grown adults that should be a little more experienced.
A fast paced age gap set in NYC. He is a retired hockey player; the “Roy Kent” of hockey. She is an ex-florist who has lost everything on a bad business deal and is living in a shoebox of an apartment with a peeping tom super. The MMC also just happens to be the ex-stepfather of her ex-boyfriend. If this sounds like the contemporary book for you - go for it!!!
👫 MF
🏒 retired hockey player
👬 ex-boyfriends ex-stepdad
💰 Billionaire Boss Vibes
🏠 He saves her
👩❤️👨 Fake dating
📱 Social media influencer
Now. If you have read this far, here is my personal opinion. Not every book is for everyone. You may just enjoy this read more than I did. ❤️
➡️ This is my first time reading and reviewing for this author. According to Amazon, the author is a well established, contemporary romance, author with thousands and thousands of positive reviews. This book is written like it’s done by a first time author not a well established romance writer. There are many inconsistencies that are red flags for me.
- Hockey references are off
- Fake dating his ex-stepson’s ex-girlfriend is suppose to HELP his image?
- The MMC talks and acts like a middle aged corporate CEO Daddy (40some-early 50s) not a 38 yr old retired hockey player
- Why is there 1/2 a chapter of architecture discussion? Is this a romance novel or an architecture digest article.
- The family drama of the FMC was unnecessary. MFC is already going through a crap time… she didn’t need more.
- MFC is written to be petite, with small feet, curves, and “heavy 🥥”.
- MFC is a “trained actress” but doesn’t act.
- The amount of side drama and crap that these characters are going through is BONKERS. I described the first 25% of the book to my bestie, she thought I was more than 50% of the way through.
ONE LAST THING: This “feels” like an “entry level naughty book”. 🌶️🌶️/5. The characters act like two adults just realizing they like to dirty talk and role play a little. It comes off a little awkward. “BDSM” is also a “hard no”; but 1/2 the stuff they engage in is considered a kink (spanking, daddy play, breath play etc…). I would expect some of this in a college level book, but not full grown adults that should be a little more experienced.
November 29, 2025
⭐️ 3.5 /5
🌶 4/5 (I genuinely had to stop and touch grass)
I really enjoyed the story, it had so much promise for a hockey/millionaire romance, but I did find parts of it a bit dragging. The author tends to describe every single thing the characters wear, eat, see, breathe, and blink at… and the elaboration was a little too detailed for me. Some pages felt like reading a list, and I ended up skipping most of the heavy description because I honestly didn’t care enough to imagine all of it.
But the lines that did hit? HIT.
Now… Daddy Kazimir.
The dirty talker that you are. Men like Kaz do NOT exist and this book proves it. He’s too good, too fantasy-coded (maybe the author’s fantasy, definitely not mine). But the way he cares for Harley? The way he makes sure everyone knows she’s his, fake or not? And the way he drops his cold, broody, emotionless image just for her? Yeah… I absolutely ate that up.
And Harley… I’m so sorry your life was such a mess, darling. I feel you. Escaping into books because real life is falling apart, that resonated with me (minus the scammer family, thank God). She’s the spark Kaz desperately needed, and he’s the safety net she craved. Also, the way she stood up for Kaz in front of that asshole of a father? ICONIC.
Their chemistry was just… damn.
I really, really love this couple.
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
❄️ Former NHL Captain
🤭 Ex-boyfriend's Stepdad
😔 Grumpy Hero
🕰️ Age Gap
💼 Workplace Romance
🧡 Roommates / Forced Proximity
🌶️ Spicy Romance
Thank you Love Notes PR for the eARC. 💖
🌶 4/5 (I genuinely had to stop and touch grass)
I really enjoyed the story, it had so much promise for a hockey/millionaire romance, but I did find parts of it a bit dragging. The author tends to describe every single thing the characters wear, eat, see, breathe, and blink at… and the elaboration was a little too detailed for me. Some pages felt like reading a list, and I ended up skipping most of the heavy description because I honestly didn’t care enough to imagine all of it.
But the lines that did hit? HIT.
"Falling in love with you, Kaz, was like going blind into a book without reading the blurb, not knowing it will become your next book hangover and your fave read of all time."
"You've had a little dirt thrown your way, but not enough to bury you. You're still standing. A flower can't bloom without dirt."
Now… Daddy Kazimir.
The dirty talker that you are. Men like Kaz do NOT exist and this book proves it. He’s too good, too fantasy-coded (maybe the author’s fantasy, definitely not mine). But the way he cares for Harley? The way he makes sure everyone knows she’s his, fake or not? And the way he drops his cold, broody, emotionless image just for her? Yeah… I absolutely ate that up.
And Harley… I’m so sorry your life was such a mess, darling. I feel you. Escaping into books because real life is falling apart, that resonated with me (minus the scammer family, thank God). She’s the spark Kaz desperately needed, and he’s the safety net she craved. Also, the way she stood up for Kaz in front of that asshole of a father? ICONIC.
Their chemistry was just… damn.
I really, really love this couple.
Tropes:
🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
❄️ Former NHL Captain
🤭 Ex-boyfriend's Stepdad
😔 Grumpy Hero
🕰️ Age Gap
💼 Workplace Romance
🧡 Roommates / Forced Proximity
🌶️ Spicy Romance
Thank you Love Notes PR for the eARC. 💖
October 26, 2025
A Very Fake Play by Scarlett Avery is a deliciously filthy, funny, and heart-melting age-gap hockey romance that delivers everything — spice, emotion, and the ultimate book boyfriend. 🏒🔥💫
Harley, a broke waitress with a love for romance novels, crosses paths again with Kazimir “Kaz” — her ex-boyfriend’s stepdad, a retired hockey legend turned billionaire brewery owner. What starts as a fake dating setup to fix his PR spirals into a whirlwind of obsession, comfort, and the kind of devotion that makes your heart (and ovaries) explode.
Kaz is the perfect mix of grumpy alpha and soft-hearted Daddy Dom. He’s 6’4, tattooed, protective, and utterly gone for Harley from the start. From buying her everything for her period — chocolate, books, heating pads — to building her a reading nook and naming an ice cream flavor after her, he sets a new bar for book boyfriends. Their banter sparkles with humor (“SDILF” in her phone? Iconic 😂), and their chemistry burns hotter than the ice he used to skate on. The Daddy kink and roleplay scenes are pure holy Fifty Shades of hotness, yet there’s real love underneath the filth.
I adored the little details — her nightmares he comforts, the way he reads her favorite smut aloud, and that jaw-dropping ending where he writes and publishes a romance book about them just to propose. Pucking Perfect, indeed. 🥹
If you love:
✨ Age-gap + ex’s stepdad trope
✨ Grumpy x sunshine
✨ Fake dating turned real
✨ Daddy Dom heroes with cinnamon hearts
✨ Hockey + bookish heroines
…this story is pure gold. A Very Fake Play is equal parts dirty, sweet, and utterly swoon-worthy. Six stars out of five. 💫
Harley, a broke waitress with a love for romance novels, crosses paths again with Kazimir “Kaz” — her ex-boyfriend’s stepdad, a retired hockey legend turned billionaire brewery owner. What starts as a fake dating setup to fix his PR spirals into a whirlwind of obsession, comfort, and the kind of devotion that makes your heart (and ovaries) explode.
Kaz is the perfect mix of grumpy alpha and soft-hearted Daddy Dom. He’s 6’4, tattooed, protective, and utterly gone for Harley from the start. From buying her everything for her period — chocolate, books, heating pads — to building her a reading nook and naming an ice cream flavor after her, he sets a new bar for book boyfriends. Their banter sparkles with humor (“SDILF” in her phone? Iconic 😂), and their chemistry burns hotter than the ice he used to skate on. The Daddy kink and roleplay scenes are pure holy Fifty Shades of hotness, yet there’s real love underneath the filth.
I adored the little details — her nightmares he comforts, the way he reads her favorite smut aloud, and that jaw-dropping ending where he writes and publishes a romance book about them just to propose. Pucking Perfect, indeed. 🥹
If you love:
✨ Age-gap + ex’s stepdad trope
✨ Grumpy x sunshine
✨ Fake dating turned real
✨ Daddy Dom heroes with cinnamon hearts
✨ Hockey + bookish heroines
…this story is pure gold. A Very Fake Play is equal parts dirty, sweet, and utterly swoon-worthy. Six stars out of five. 💫
November 6, 2025
A Very Fake Play
I had the honor of being chosen to read this as an ARC. Having never read anything by Scarlett Avery I was going in blind. Let me tell you; I am now a forever fan! Scarlett captivated my attention from the very first page. I have never been SO invested in a love story so fast. I think Harley and Kaz are going to take the top spot for couple goals. The was Scarlett writes, just immerses you into the story. You feel as much a part of the story as Harley and Kaz. It was truly an honor to be able to read and watch Kaz and Harley’s forbidden love story unfold.
A Very Fake Play follows the story of Harley, who believes her past defines her and her ex-boyfriend’s ex-stepdad Kazimir Lindström a retired hockey legend turned restaurateur. From the first moment he met Harley in the Hamptons all those months ago, he knew she was something special. The in months since Harley last saw Kaz, he has never left her mind. Now after running into her in the worst time in her life, Harley can’t escape the pull to him. Haunted by her family’s history, she doesn’t believe she deserves anything good and no one will love her due to her past. Kaz, after having the worst divorce in history might just be the thing that saves her from herself. Harley may just be the thing to get Kaz out of the ever-present spotlight his ex-wife keeps putting him in. Can Harley and Kaz help each other? Will Harley finally see she deserves love? Can Kaz save his image in the media? Read a Very Fake Play to find out. OUT NOW!
I had the honor of being chosen to read this as an ARC. Having never read anything by Scarlett Avery I was going in blind. Let me tell you; I am now a forever fan! Scarlett captivated my attention from the very first page. I have never been SO invested in a love story so fast. I think Harley and Kaz are going to take the top spot for couple goals. The was Scarlett writes, just immerses you into the story. You feel as much a part of the story as Harley and Kaz. It was truly an honor to be able to read and watch Kaz and Harley’s forbidden love story unfold.
A Very Fake Play follows the story of Harley, who believes her past defines her and her ex-boyfriend’s ex-stepdad Kazimir Lindström a retired hockey legend turned restaurateur. From the first moment he met Harley in the Hamptons all those months ago, he knew she was something special. The in months since Harley last saw Kaz, he has never left her mind. Now after running into her in the worst time in her life, Harley can’t escape the pull to him. Haunted by her family’s history, she doesn’t believe she deserves anything good and no one will love her due to her past. Kaz, after having the worst divorce in history might just be the thing that saves her from herself. Harley may just be the thing to get Kaz out of the ever-present spotlight his ex-wife keeps putting him in. Can Harley and Kaz help each other? Will Harley finally see she deserves love? Can Kaz save his image in the media? Read a Very Fake Play to find out. OUT NOW!
November 2, 2025
Scarlett Avery has done it again! A Very Fake Play is a deliciously steamy hockey romance that delivers everything you crave in a grumpy x sunshine, fake dating, age gap romance…and then some! But let’s be real: Kazimir is pure daddy goals and absolutely stole the show for me!
Things with Kazimir are complicated, he isn’t just a former NHL captain, he’s also Harley’s ex boyfriend’s ex-stepdad. Regardless of that, the sexual tension between them is instantaneous and absolutely intoxicating. From the moment they met, Kazimir was secretly obsessed with her and it shows in every possessive glance, every protective move, and every scorching word. He even names an ice cream flavor after her. Yes, you read that right, a freaking ice cream based on her favorite kind!! This man is down bad in the most delicious ways possible.
Harley is down on her luck, trying to find her footing in a world that hasn’t been kind. She’s got her own secrets and is truly just trying to survive. When she agrees to work for and then fake date Kazimir, sparks fly, emotions unravel, and suddenly the lines between pretend and real blur in the most intoxicating way.
What I loved most about A Very Fake Play was the explosive chemistry between Kazimir and Harley. It’s built on a perfect storm of tropes and tension. The grumpy x sunshine dynamic was irresistible; Kazimir’s brooding intensity clashing deliciously with Harley’s warmth and spark. Their fake dating setup quickly spiraled into something real, raw, and emotionally charged. Kazimir was everything: dominant, protective, and emotionally available, with daddy vibes that hit HARD and made every scene sizzle. Add in the messy, forbidden, age-gap tension and you’ve got a setup that’s as scandalous as it is addictive. But what truly melted me was the secret obsession and sweet gestures: the ice cream named after her, the shoes, the way he saw her when no one else did. It’s the kind of romance that leaves you breathless and begging for more.
A huge thank you to Scarlett Avery and Love Notes PR for the early copy!
Things with Kazimir are complicated, he isn’t just a former NHL captain, he’s also Harley’s ex boyfriend’s ex-stepdad. Regardless of that, the sexual tension between them is instantaneous and absolutely intoxicating. From the moment they met, Kazimir was secretly obsessed with her and it shows in every possessive glance, every protective move, and every scorching word. He even names an ice cream flavor after her. Yes, you read that right, a freaking ice cream based on her favorite kind!! This man is down bad in the most delicious ways possible.
Harley is down on her luck, trying to find her footing in a world that hasn’t been kind. She’s got her own secrets and is truly just trying to survive. When she agrees to work for and then fake date Kazimir, sparks fly, emotions unravel, and suddenly the lines between pretend and real blur in the most intoxicating way.
What I loved most about A Very Fake Play was the explosive chemistry between Kazimir and Harley. It’s built on a perfect storm of tropes and tension. The grumpy x sunshine dynamic was irresistible; Kazimir’s brooding intensity clashing deliciously with Harley’s warmth and spark. Their fake dating setup quickly spiraled into something real, raw, and emotionally charged. Kazimir was everything: dominant, protective, and emotionally available, with daddy vibes that hit HARD and made every scene sizzle. Add in the messy, forbidden, age-gap tension and you’ve got a setup that’s as scandalous as it is addictive. But what truly melted me was the secret obsession and sweet gestures: the ice cream named after her, the shoes, the way he saw her when no one else did. It’s the kind of romance that leaves you breathless and begging for more.
A huge thank you to Scarlett Avery and Love Notes PR for the early copy!
October 31, 2025
📖Book Review📖
A Very Fake Play
I was very kindly given a arc of this by Love Notes PR and Scarlett Avery
I really enjoyed this. As you all know I LOVE my hockey romances and this one was no different. It just hit the right spot.
I loved Harley and how even tho life dealt her a bit of a crap hand she was determined to make things better for herself and still stayed so sweet and positive.
Kaz omg 🥵 ULTIMATE BOOK BOYFRIEND. This man knew his assignment and definitely did his homework 😏 He was also kind and considerate and understanding. Just chefs kiss 😘
Both of them together were perfect, the banter, spice, it was so so good. I mean Kaz literally read about men in romance novels and BECAME one of them. I know hes fictional but I want one 😂 Harley is very lucky indeed.
I would definitely be up to reading the next book in this series and other work from this author.
Tropes
🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
❄️ Former NHL Captain
🤭 Ex-boyfriend's Stepdad
😔 Grumpy Hero
🕰️ Age Gap (he’s older then her)
💼 Workplace Romance
🧡 Roommates/Forced Proximity
🌶️ Spicy Romance
Content warnings
Please check the trigger warnings for this book before reading for your own piece of mind.
4⭐️
4🌶️
A Very Fake Play
I was very kindly given a arc of this by Love Notes PR and Scarlett Avery
I really enjoyed this. As you all know I LOVE my hockey romances and this one was no different. It just hit the right spot.
I loved Harley and how even tho life dealt her a bit of a crap hand she was determined to make things better for herself and still stayed so sweet and positive.
Kaz omg 🥵 ULTIMATE BOOK BOYFRIEND. This man knew his assignment and definitely did his homework 😏 He was also kind and considerate and understanding. Just chefs kiss 😘
Both of them together were perfect, the banter, spice, it was so so good. I mean Kaz literally read about men in romance novels and BECAME one of them. I know hes fictional but I want one 😂 Harley is very lucky indeed.
I would definitely be up to reading the next book in this series and other work from this author.
Tropes
🏒 Hockey Romance
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
❄️ Former NHL Captain
🤭 Ex-boyfriend's Stepdad
😔 Grumpy Hero
🕰️ Age Gap (he’s older then her)
💼 Workplace Romance
🧡 Roommates/Forced Proximity
🌶️ Spicy Romance
Content warnings
Please check the trigger warnings for this book before reading for your own piece of mind.
4⭐️
4🌶️
November 8, 2025
An age gap romance for the former bad boy of ice hockey turned restauranteur Kazimir Lindstrom with the added spice of the object of his desires being his former stepson’s ex girlfriend. Harley was down on her luck. When he’d first met her she was on the verge of opening her own business but now a year or so later, she was in the process of losing her waitressing job with little hope of finding another one. Just when she thinks things can’t get any worse, she discovers her building supervisor has installed cameras, spying on her. It’s into this mess that Kaz walks with a proposition, he wants Harley to move in with him as his fake girlfriend in an attempt to rebuild his image that his ex had shredded. But Harley has a secret past that could blow up his plans.
After reading the blurb I couldn’t wait to read this book. It had everything I usually love, ice hockey, age gap, a hint of the forbidden that would hopefully lead to trouble but for some reason I just couldn’t get into it. The overall story was good but for me, the main draw to a book is the characters. I want to care what happens to them but unfortunately that just didn’t happen here.
After reading the blurb I couldn’t wait to read this book. It had everything I usually love, ice hockey, age gap, a hint of the forbidden that would hopefully lead to trouble but for some reason I just couldn’t get into it. The overall story was good but for me, the main draw to a book is the characters. I want to care what happens to them but unfortunately that just didn’t happen here.
November 13, 2025
Loved this age gap hockey romance.
Kaz is the ultimate book boyfriend.
Kaz and Harley met a year ago when she was dating his ex-stepson who is now her ex-boyfriend.
Now a year later she is thrown back into his world.She is in a bad place.She is completely broke,jobless and homeless.
Kaz has been thinking of Harley since he met her and now wants to help her.
He asks her to move in with him,offers her a job and asks her to be his fake girlfriend.
My heart totally broke for what Harley had been through.Kaz was also suffering with the loss of his grandmother.
The way Kaz treated Harley warmed my heart and made me swoon.Their feelings grew for each other and they fell in love.I loved these two together and could not wait for them to get to their happily ever after.
It was not smooth sailing,with Kaz' evil ex wife out to get him and Harley keeping a secret from Kaz.
There was laughter,tears,friendships,swoony moments,spice,banter,romance and a happily ever after.
I will definitely read more books by Scarlett Avery.
I recieved an ARC of this book from Love Notes PR and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Kaz is the ultimate book boyfriend.
Kaz and Harley met a year ago when she was dating his ex-stepson who is now her ex-boyfriend.
Now a year later she is thrown back into his world.She is in a bad place.She is completely broke,jobless and homeless.
Kaz has been thinking of Harley since he met her and now wants to help her.
He asks her to move in with him,offers her a job and asks her to be his fake girlfriend.
My heart totally broke for what Harley had been through.Kaz was also suffering with the loss of his grandmother.
The way Kaz treated Harley warmed my heart and made me swoon.Their feelings grew for each other and they fell in love.I loved these two together and could not wait for them to get to their happily ever after.
It was not smooth sailing,with Kaz' evil ex wife out to get him and Harley keeping a secret from Kaz.
There was laughter,tears,friendships,swoony moments,spice,banter,romance and a happily ever after.
I will definitely read more books by Scarlett Avery.
I recieved an ARC of this book from Love Notes PR and am voluntarily leaving my review.
November 4, 2025
A Very Fake Play is book three of the Very Much In Love Series.
Kaz and Harley had instant chemistry together. They have an interesting history together and when the reconnect, he enters her world as her saviour. He is there for her when she needs someone to support her. I loved how protective he became over her. And then he needs someone to pretend to be his girlfriend to clean up his tarnished public image. While she agrees, she knows it can never be more because of her mysterious past. I was chomping at the bit trying to figure out what she was hiding about her past. When Kaz figures things out, his intensity to prove to her that he was there for her through everything was the best. I loved how invested he was in her, even before he knew everything. There was nothing he was going to let stop them be together. Kaz has been invested in her for a long time and you see that in all of his actions. He was the perfect person for Harley and I was glad she was able to have someone amazing in her life.
Kaz and Harley had instant chemistry together. They have an interesting history together and when the reconnect, he enters her world as her saviour. He is there for her when she needs someone to support her. I loved how protective he became over her. And then he needs someone to pretend to be his girlfriend to clean up his tarnished public image. While she agrees, she knows it can never be more because of her mysterious past. I was chomping at the bit trying to figure out what she was hiding about her past. When Kaz figures things out, his intensity to prove to her that he was there for her through everything was the best. I loved how invested he was in her, even before he knew everything. There was nothing he was going to let stop them be together. Kaz has been invested in her for a long time and you see that in all of his actions. He was the perfect person for Harley and I was glad she was able to have someone amazing in her life.
November 10, 2025
I love hockey romance books and this one didn’t disappoint! Kaz quickly became my new book boyfriend and I feel the need to make my husband read this one so he can learn a few things 😉
.
We follow Harley who’s world has upside down and guess who comes to her rescue only her ex boyfriend step dad. The grumpy ex NHL player who secretly has been crushing on Harley since he last met her a year ago in the Hamptons. After coming to rescue at work kaz later finds out where she lives and soon releases her landlord is a peeping Tom and stole her money.
.
Kaz whisks Harley away to live with him and soon proposes she becomes his social media manager to help his media imagine and the opportunity comes up that she could become his fake girlfriend to help him secure a job that the manager doesn’t want anything to do with his bad imagine. Can they keep up the charade?
.
This was my first scarlet Avery book and it certainly won’t be the last. It had be hooked from the first chapter and the main characters were lush.
.
Thank you to lovenotes.pr for giving me the opportunity to read this one.
.
We follow Harley who’s world has upside down and guess who comes to her rescue only her ex boyfriend step dad. The grumpy ex NHL player who secretly has been crushing on Harley since he last met her a year ago in the Hamptons. After coming to rescue at work kaz later finds out where she lives and soon releases her landlord is a peeping Tom and stole her money.
.
Kaz whisks Harley away to live with him and soon proposes she becomes his social media manager to help his media imagine and the opportunity comes up that she could become his fake girlfriend to help him secure a job that the manager doesn’t want anything to do with his bad imagine. Can they keep up the charade?
.
This was my first scarlet Avery book and it certainly won’t be the last. It had be hooked from the first chapter and the main characters were lush.
.
Thank you to lovenotes.pr for giving me the opportunity to read this one.
November 12, 2025
This book had some amazing tropes such as age gap, forbidden love, fake dating, and many more, but it still fell a little flat for me somewhere along the way.
It definitely kept my interest, though. I found myself reading nonstop because I wanted to see how everything would play out. I was especially curious about Harley’s family and the reason she did not want to be associated with them, as well as why she hid information about them. I also loved the way Kaz fell first and did everything in his power to help Harley. And honestly, who would not want to be gifted a reading nook with a rolling ladder? All my book girlies out there, are you with me?
This might just be me, but I felt like Harley’s family issue was made to seem bigger than it really was. If she did not associate with them, why hide them from Kaz when he was clearly doing everything he could to support her? I feel like most of the conflicts in this novel came from a lack of communication, which tends to be a common trend in romance novels.
If you are looking for a light, quick, and easy read, I would still recommend picking this one up.
Thank you to Love Notes and the author for the opportunity to read an ARC.
It definitely kept my interest, though. I found myself reading nonstop because I wanted to see how everything would play out. I was especially curious about Harley’s family and the reason she did not want to be associated with them, as well as why she hid information about them. I also loved the way Kaz fell first and did everything in his power to help Harley. And honestly, who would not want to be gifted a reading nook with a rolling ladder? All my book girlies out there, are you with me?
This might just be me, but I felt like Harley’s family issue was made to seem bigger than it really was. If she did not associate with them, why hide them from Kaz when he was clearly doing everything he could to support her? I feel like most of the conflicts in this novel came from a lack of communication, which tends to be a common trend in romance novels.
If you are looking for a light, quick, and easy read, I would still recommend picking this one up.
Thank you to Love Notes and the author for the opportunity to read an ARC.
November 14, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* Second chance romance a
* Age gap romance
* He falls first
* He does anything for her
* Down on her luck FMC
* She’s got secrets 🤫
Thank you to Love Notes and Scarlett Avery for this eARC!
This book has some really good romantic twists and turns that I really enjoyed! While it starts out with Kaz very quickly coming to Harley’s rescue, already having been very into her long before this begins. While at first it seems like insta lust, that information helps you understand why he’s so eager to do so much for her when she’s going through so much bad luck.
They quickly fall for each other, which I understand as she’s just as gorgeous inside and out. But her dark past catches up with her, and secrets come to light. Kaz is a dream MMC, who understands what it’s like to feel like he’s always running from a past that he didn’t have a choice in. I love how much they support each other and make their relationship stronger.
I loved their HEA! He really became a dream man for her and they got their happiness they both deserved together 🥰
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* Second chance romance a
* Age gap romance
* He falls first
* He does anything for her
* Down on her luck FMC
* She’s got secrets 🤫
Thank you to Love Notes and Scarlett Avery for this eARC!
This book has some really good romantic twists and turns that I really enjoyed! While it starts out with Kaz very quickly coming to Harley’s rescue, already having been very into her long before this begins. While at first it seems like insta lust, that information helps you understand why he’s so eager to do so much for her when she’s going through so much bad luck.
They quickly fall for each other, which I understand as she’s just as gorgeous inside and out. But her dark past catches up with her, and secrets come to light. Kaz is a dream MMC, who understands what it’s like to feel like he’s always running from a past that he didn’t have a choice in. I love how much they support each other and make their relationship stronger.
I loved their HEA! He really became a dream man for her and they got their happiness they both deserved together 🥰
October 31, 2025
🤎 ARC Review 🤎 A Very Fake Play by Scarlett Avery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Love Notes PR and Scarlett Avery for the ARC of A Very Fake Play. Yet another great faking dating hockey romance!
This story follows Kazimir and Harley who first met when she was dating his stepson. Fast forward many months, a messy divorce and a string of bad luck, the two meet again and end up in a fake relationship.
I really enjoyed the way Kaz was so grumpy with everyone except Harley and how he was constantly spoiling her and showing her how she deserved to be treated by a man.
Watching Harley slowly open up to Kaz and trust him enough to share her past with him was really satisfying and I was so happy when they got their HEA.
The book includes:
🌸 Fake dating
🏒 Age Gap
🌸 Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒 Ex-boyfriend’s Stepdad
🌸 Workplace Romance
🏒 Forced Proximity
This is part of the Very Much in Love series and will be available on KU on the 6th of November.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Love Notes PR and Scarlett Avery for the ARC of A Very Fake Play. Yet another great faking dating hockey romance!
This story follows Kazimir and Harley who first met when she was dating his stepson. Fast forward many months, a messy divorce and a string of bad luck, the two meet again and end up in a fake relationship.
I really enjoyed the way Kaz was so grumpy with everyone except Harley and how he was constantly spoiling her and showing her how she deserved to be treated by a man.
Watching Harley slowly open up to Kaz and trust him enough to share her past with him was really satisfying and I was so happy when they got their HEA.
The book includes:
🌸 Fake dating
🏒 Age Gap
🌸 Grumpy x Sunshine
🏒 Ex-boyfriend’s Stepdad
🌸 Workplace Romance
🏒 Forced Proximity
This is part of the Very Much in Love series and will be available on KU on the 6th of November.
November 2, 2025
Former hockey star falls for his ex-stepson’s ex-girlfriend. I know, I know….sounds creepy, but it really wasn’t that bad.
I really liked the story line - how Kaz was a knight in shining armor and Harley needed someone to believe in her. In addition to getting her a place to stay, he cares for her well-being, BUYS. HER. BOOKS; he gives her confidence. He employs her to take control of his social media. He allows her to shine.
While it was pretty clear, their fake romance wasn’t really ever fake; they did have things to work through to make it official.
It was indeed a whirlwind book and things happen quickly. I wish there was an opportunity to have a flashback scene or something to connect the dots in their attraction. I also didn’t love her “big secret” plot line. Seemed like she was making something about herself that really wasn’t about her.
A good quick read that gets the job done.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖: arc team
I really liked the story line - how Kaz was a knight in shining armor and Harley needed someone to believe in her. In addition to getting her a place to stay, he cares for her well-being, BUYS. HER. BOOKS; he gives her confidence. He employs her to take control of his social media. He allows her to shine.
While it was pretty clear, their fake romance wasn’t really ever fake; they did have things to work through to make it official.
It was indeed a whirlwind book and things happen quickly. I wish there was an opportunity to have a flashback scene or something to connect the dots in their attraction. I also didn’t love her “big secret” plot line. Seemed like she was making something about herself that really wasn’t about her.
A good quick read that gets the job done.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖: arc team
November 10, 2025
Thank you Love Notes PR and Scarlett Avery for an ARC of A Very Fake Play!
Okay, so let’s get this straight: he’s her ex’s ex-stepdad. He’s thirty-nine, she’s twenty-seven, and yes it’s as deliciously forbidden as it sounds.
Kaz is a retired hockey player with major “grumpy knight in shining armor” energy, and Harley? She’s been through it this past year. Between family chaos and heartbreak, the last thing she expected was a man who would see her past, scars, drama and all and still want to stay. But Kaz never flinches. He’s steady, protective, and completely gone for her from page one.
This is a slow burn in the best way: full of tension, banter, and those quiet moments that make you melt. Scarlett Avery serves up age gap perfection with just the right amount of spice, swoon, and emotional healing.
Tropes:
Age Gap (39/27)
Forbidden Romance
Fake Dating
Grumpy x Sunshine
Former Hockey Player
He Falls First
Okay, so let’s get this straight: he’s her ex’s ex-stepdad. He’s thirty-nine, she’s twenty-seven, and yes it’s as deliciously forbidden as it sounds.
Kaz is a retired hockey player with major “grumpy knight in shining armor” energy, and Harley? She’s been through it this past year. Between family chaos and heartbreak, the last thing she expected was a man who would see her past, scars, drama and all and still want to stay. But Kaz never flinches. He’s steady, protective, and completely gone for her from page one.
This is a slow burn in the best way: full of tension, banter, and those quiet moments that make you melt. Scarlett Avery serves up age gap perfection with just the right amount of spice, swoon, and emotional healing.
Tropes:
Age Gap (39/27)
Forbidden Romance
Fake Dating
Grumpy x Sunshine
Former Hockey Player
He Falls First
November 14, 2025
This is a different type of hockey romance for me, the heroine, Harley, runs into her ex-boyfriend's former stepdad, Kaz. Any potential awkwardness is quickly handled as it's established he's since divorced his ex's mom, paving the way for a new dynamic.
The story features an age gap—about 12 years, I believe—and if you're sometimes wary of that trope, this one handles it well. It makes sense in the context of their lives and doesn't feel slimy or predatory.
The plot kicks into high gear when Harley finds herself in a tough spot with her landlord. Kaz, being the protective (and clearly interested) MMC, steps in with a proposition: she comes to work for him, helping to manage his social media. This professional arrangement soon bleeds into the personal as they agree to start fake dating. Harley has same familial issues which lead her to believe her worth but Katz shows her that she is not defined by her family and still wants her …swoon.
The story features an age gap—about 12 years, I believe—and if you're sometimes wary of that trope, this one handles it well. It makes sense in the context of their lives and doesn't feel slimy or predatory.
The plot kicks into high gear when Harley finds herself in a tough spot with her landlord. Kaz, being the protective (and clearly interested) MMC, steps in with a proposition: she comes to work for him, helping to manage his social media. This professional arrangement soon bleeds into the personal as they agree to start fake dating. Harley has same familial issues which lead her to believe her worth but Katz shows her that she is not defined by her family and still wants her …swoon.
November 11, 2025
I really loved the premise of this book on paper it was so many things I love. Ex hockey player, forced proximity and fake dating. However something just didn’t click with me. I found the pacing all over and the MMC read like he was a lot younger than he actually was.
I love a book with smut but also a storyline to follow and this just sadly felt so rushed and smut focused. At times the relationship between Harley and Kaz came across as seedy!
I felt I also never really got to know Harley the FMC as well as I could have and just stopped caring.
The writing was good in aspects of the just spotted articles I really liked this with Kaz been a NHL celebrity and legend it felt real. As paparazzi would be following the couple and take an interest.
Sadly this didn’t work for me this time but I would try this author again
Thankyou to love notes Pr for sending me an arc copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
I love a book with smut but also a storyline to follow and this just sadly felt so rushed and smut focused. At times the relationship between Harley and Kaz came across as seedy!
I felt I also never really got to know Harley the FMC as well as I could have and just stopped caring.
The writing was good in aspects of the just spotted articles I really liked this with Kaz been a NHL celebrity and legend it felt real. As paparazzi would be following the couple and take an interest.
Sadly this didn’t work for me this time but I would try this author again
Thankyou to love notes Pr for sending me an arc copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
October 25, 2025
this book was so freaking good! I loved Harley and Kaz instantly! and I just loved how they were both gone for eachother from the start😍also Kaz! what a man!! the way he took care of Harley was soo swoony! he was so understanding at all times🥰the fact that Harley was a big romance reader was so cute aswell! ( Kaz liked abit of it too😉)honestly I adored Harley from the beginning so finding out about her family struggles and how strong she was just made me love her more🫶🏻 Harley and Kaz we perfect for eachother and that chemistry was just so 🔥🔥 especially those spicy scenes🤭 the ending was so beautiful🩷
this was my first read from Scarlett but I loved her writing and will be reading more books of hers!
this was my first read from Scarlett but I loved her writing and will be reading more books of hers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2025
3.5⭐️s
A Very Fake Play by Scarlett Avery is tropes galore. Harley our FMC was going through one unfortunate event after another when -here comes Kazimir our knight in shining armor. This book has some good tension to start with between our main characters building up to the “Fifty Shades of Yes”. The banter with a mix of humor was witty and fun. Loves how protective and head over heels Kaz was since the moment he laid eyes on her. The “Daddy” kink wasn’t my favorite or the use of the word meaty throughout but nonetheless the spicy scenes were 🌶️.
If you love:
*Fake-dating
*Grumpy-Sunshine
*Age-gap and Step-Father
*He falls first
Thank you LoveNotes PR for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
A Very Fake Play by Scarlett Avery is tropes galore. Harley our FMC was going through one unfortunate event after another when -here comes Kazimir our knight in shining armor. This book has some good tension to start with between our main characters building up to the “Fifty Shades of Yes”. The banter with a mix of humor was witty and fun. Loves how protective and head over heels Kaz was since the moment he laid eyes on her. The “Daddy” kink wasn’t my favorite or the use of the word meaty throughout but nonetheless the spicy scenes were 🌶️.
If you love:
*Fake-dating
*Grumpy-Sunshine
*Age-gap and Step-Father
*He falls first
Thank you LoveNotes PR for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews