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If the Fates Allow: A holiday fake dating romance
As a professional fake girlfriend, Henri Elm has the luxury of ignoring all her problems. No strings. No commitments. No one who can get close enough to know the real her. But on Thanksgiving, while running from one date to the next, she accuses a man she shares a taxi with of stalking her, only to find out he’s her favorite journalist: the mysterious L. Hughes.
It’s Liam Hughes’s last winter in Manhattan before moving home to Colorado to take over Dulcet Point Resort, and continue his family’s legendary ski legacy. But before packing up his desk and saying goodbye to his dream job as a writer for Spitfire magazine, his editor-in-chief tasks him with hunting down one final story. It just so happens that he can’t get one smart-mouthed blonde who fake dates men for a living out of his head.
After a viral incident that puts Henri’s anonymity at risk, she reluctantly agrees to take Liam on as a client and go home with him for Christmas. There, Henri must face the harsh reality that she might just want to belong with someone . . . someone just like Liam. But can she risk the absolute control she’s grown to rely on for a relationship that was never supposed to be more than an interview?
Between bad timing, family rivalries, and a life-altering secret, some relationships can only happen if the fates allow.
It’s Liam Hughes’s last winter in Manhattan before moving home to Colorado to take over Dulcet Point Resort, and continue his family’s legendary ski legacy. But before packing up his desk and saying goodbye to his dream job as a writer for Spitfire magazine, his editor-in-chief tasks him with hunting down one final story. It just so happens that he can’t get one smart-mouthed blonde who fake dates men for a living out of his head.
After a viral incident that puts Henri’s anonymity at risk, she reluctantly agrees to take Liam on as a client and go home with him for Christmas. There, Henri must face the harsh reality that she might just want to belong with someone . . . someone just like Liam. But can she risk the absolute control she’s grown to rely on for a relationship that was never supposed to be more than an interview?
Between bad timing, family rivalries, and a life-altering secret, some relationships can only happen if the fates allow.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
11 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 25, 2025
yeah, no!!
November 29, 2025
This was a super cute holiday romance, & I LOVED the connection between Henri + Liam 🥰
Thank you to author Marja Graham for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
✦ tropes & stuff:
🎄 holiday romance
🥸 fake dating
💫 professional fake dater x journalist
🌶 “teach Me”
⛷ ex-athlete mmc
🌃 NYC to small mountain town
🫶🏼 found family
💥 family drama
💞 dual 1st person pov
•┈••✦ review ✦••┈•
ebook | ⭐️: 4.5 | 🌶️: 3 |
💭 what I loved about this one:
- Henri, and how incredibly relatable she is - always trying to protect herself (though I admit I definitely wanted to knock some sense into her at many times 😅)
- Liam, the blushing man that he is 🥹
- that he’s her “celebrity crush” - Henri’s read all of Liam’s articles, and connects with his writing before meeting him
- their hilarious meet-cute 🚕
- SHE says “f*ck it”
- that hot tub scene 🔥 iykyk
- their friends (Jasmine + Iris) were great side characters
- Liam’s sisters! I really hope they get books of their own, I would love to read more of them 🥰
🙃 what didn’t quite work for me:
- something was lacking in the execution I’m not sure what - the pacing maybe?
📖 If the Fates Allow by Marja Graham
💜: holiday romance novella-ish (mf, 266pgs)
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
Thank you to author Marja Graham for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
✦ tropes & stuff:
🎄 holiday romance
🥸 fake dating
💫 professional fake dater x journalist
🌶 “teach Me”
⛷ ex-athlete mmc
🌃 NYC to small mountain town
🫶🏼 found family
💥 family drama
💞 dual 1st person pov
•┈••✦ review ✦••┈•
ebook | ⭐️: 4.5 | 🌶️: 3 |
💭 what I loved about this one:
- Henri, and how incredibly relatable she is - always trying to protect herself (though I admit I definitely wanted to knock some sense into her at many times 😅)
- Liam, the blushing man that he is 🥹
- that he’s her “celebrity crush” - Henri’s read all of Liam’s articles, and connects with his writing before meeting him
- their hilarious meet-cute 🚕
- SHE says “f*ck it”
- that hot tub scene 🔥 iykyk
- their friends (Jasmine + Iris) were great side characters
- Liam’s sisters! I really hope they get books of their own, I would love to read more of them 🥰
🙃 what didn’t quite work for me:
- something was lacking in the execution I’m not sure what - the pacing maybe?
📖 If the Fates Allow by Marja Graham
💜: holiday romance novella-ish (mf, 266pgs)
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
November 20, 2025
This book was sooo good!! I read it as an ARC and it is so worth it! Henri and Liam are the cutest and most infuriating people ever🤣 This book is of a journalist and a professional “fake date.” The banter is so good and had me yelling “just kiss already!!” From Henri learning to get past her fears, and Liam standing up for what he wants, the journey is so fun! I am so excited for you all to jump into this holiday romcom novella❣️🎄📚
December 1, 2025
ARC REVIEW
First, I want to thank Marja for giving me the chance to read another one of her books as an ARC. It was such a fun read. I love holiday romcoms, so when I saw Marja say this was that, but in the book version, I was immediately sold.
✧| Writing style
I knew I was going to like this because I know I like how Marja writes. It made me feel the way holiday romcoms make me feel, and I loved it. The vibes were amazing, it was so fun, and the dual POV is always something that I'm down to read. This is my second Marja book, and I have to say that she knows how to write characters because you can tell them apart.
Men written by Marja are down bad for their girls, but always in their own unique way. I feel like Avery and Henri are both badass women. Still, you can see the differences between her characters, and that's something I loved noticing and that I feel is worth mentioning because not everyone can make it happen.
✧| Plot and tropes
I'm a sucker for fake dating, and I think this was done the right way. It was all a perfect mix of banter, teasing, flirting, and wholesome moments. I don't know if this is a trope or micro-trope, but when a MMC flusters easily and then, in the bedroom, he is the complete opposite, I start giggling and kicking my feet, because that's just one of the best things to ever happen in books.
I liked how everything was connected; every character that was mentioned had a role, no matter how big or small it was, they all had a purpose, and I loved that. I also really appreciated the fact that no crazy exes, past lovers, or other lovers were meddling in their dynamic; it was a breath of fresh air for them to be pulling away for purely personal emotional journeys.
I'm not sure how I feel about the pacing or the temporality of the plot, mainly because I felt everything happened way too fast and BIT abruptly, but I also loved how it all happened, and there were moments where I forgot how much time had passed between some events.
✧| Characters
Liam and Henri were so fun to read. I don't know how many quotes and bookmarks I put on my copy, but just know I had a great time.
Henrietta, aka Henri, is such a hardworking woman. I felt I could relate to her in some aspects, and I know a lot of people will, too. She wants to pay for her things on her own and earn the money, and I respect that so much. I liked seeing her get scared by how much she liked being around Liam and how she felt with him, and how it evolved.
Liam, my man, freaky king, who got flustered by Henri's flirting. I loved how he was so honest and direct about how he felt and what he wanted. He was so patient and gentle with her, and most importantly, he truly saw her and admired her for everything she had gone through and how strong she had been through it all. He really would've done anything for her, which he did, but you will have to find out what he did when you read this book.
✧| Overall
It was a fun read. I liked how well they worked together, and the duality of Liam was truly one of my favorite things to read. I literally won't ever shut up about it. The hyperindependent girl getting with the guy that wants to take care of her and loves her to death? yep, get me one of those, thanks. I don't doubt Marja will always make my readings worth it.
First, I want to thank Marja for giving me the chance to read another one of her books as an ARC. It was such a fun read. I love holiday romcoms, so when I saw Marja say this was that, but in the book version, I was immediately sold.
✧| Writing style
I knew I was going to like this because I know I like how Marja writes. It made me feel the way holiday romcoms make me feel, and I loved it. The vibes were amazing, it was so fun, and the dual POV is always something that I'm down to read. This is my second Marja book, and I have to say that she knows how to write characters because you can tell them apart.
Men written by Marja are down bad for their girls, but always in their own unique way. I feel like Avery and Henri are both badass women. Still, you can see the differences between her characters, and that's something I loved noticing and that I feel is worth mentioning because not everyone can make it happen.
✧| Plot and tropes
I'm a sucker for fake dating, and I think this was done the right way. It was all a perfect mix of banter, teasing, flirting, and wholesome moments. I don't know if this is a trope or micro-trope, but when a MMC flusters easily and then, in the bedroom, he is the complete opposite, I start giggling and kicking my feet, because that's just one of the best things to ever happen in books.
I liked how everything was connected; every character that was mentioned had a role, no matter how big or small it was, they all had a purpose, and I loved that. I also really appreciated the fact that no crazy exes, past lovers, or other lovers were meddling in their dynamic; it was a breath of fresh air for them to be pulling away for purely personal emotional journeys.
I'm not sure how I feel about the pacing or the temporality of the plot, mainly because I felt everything happened way too fast and BIT abruptly, but I also loved how it all happened, and there were moments where I forgot how much time had passed between some events.
✧| Characters
Liam and Henri were so fun to read. I don't know how many quotes and bookmarks I put on my copy, but just know I had a great time.
Henrietta, aka Henri, is such a hardworking woman. I felt I could relate to her in some aspects, and I know a lot of people will, too. She wants to pay for her things on her own and earn the money, and I respect that so much. I liked seeing her get scared by how much she liked being around Liam and how she felt with him, and how it evolved.
Liam, my man, freaky king, who got flustered by Henri's flirting. I loved how he was so honest and direct about how he felt and what he wanted. He was so patient and gentle with her, and most importantly, he truly saw her and admired her for everything she had gone through and how strong she had been through it all. He really would've done anything for her, which he did, but you will have to find out what he did when you read this book.
✧| Overall
It was a fun read. I liked how well they worked together, and the duality of Liam was truly one of my favorite things to read. I literally won't ever shut up about it. The hyperindependent girl getting with the guy that wants to take care of her and loves her to death? yep, get me one of those, thanks. I don't doubt Marja will always make my readings worth it.
November 18, 2025
Cute short little holiday story to get us all excited for winter. The red knit hat being the main plot device of the second half was really cute and fun. Truly just a very natural and fun story between these people.
Although someone needed to be wayyyy more of a bitch to Liam's dad, that man sucked.
Thanks Marja for the ARC!
Although someone needed to be wayyyy more of a bitch to Liam's dad, that man sucked.
Thanks Marja for the ARC!
December 3, 2025
This was my first book from @mjgraham.author and l'm so happy that I let this cover stop me in my tracks. I knew this book would be special the second I saw it.
Henri is the definition of hustle. After life events no one saw coming, she can only rely on herself and never lets anyone penetrate the wall around her heart. Then along comes Liam, her longtime celebrity crush(unknowingly) who has to write an article about her unconventional job. What she doesn't expect is to start falling for him... or to finally start uncovering who she is beneath all the characters she plays.
Liam, with the softest heart, is thrilled to finally unravel the enigma that is Henri. He wants to know everything about her.
But above all, he wants her. The real, unfiltered version she keeps hidden. And he knows earning her trust is going to be messy and unpredictable... but he's ready to steady her, to be the one who catches her every single time she stumbles.
Even if he ends up tumbling right after her.
These two are an absolute delight together. The teasing, the sparks, and those unbearably sweet moments. Liam's admiration, his constant praise, the way he's just feral for her in the softest, sweetest way? Obsessed with him and his list he keeps in his notebook about her.
"Great. They think you're a virgin loser."
When I think about falling, what occupies my mind is the inevitable brutal landing. Maybe that's because the few times I've trusted people to catch me, they didn't.
He just makes me feel seen, like the parts of me that I doubt are worth showing to the world.
"This feels so good but that just means it's going to hurt when it's gone, when you're gone. Finding reasons to shove you away is easier than being close enough to feel my heart ripped out."
Henri is the definition of hustle. After life events no one saw coming, she can only rely on herself and never lets anyone penetrate the wall around her heart. Then along comes Liam, her longtime celebrity crush(unknowingly) who has to write an article about her unconventional job. What she doesn't expect is to start falling for him... or to finally start uncovering who she is beneath all the characters she plays.
Liam, with the softest heart, is thrilled to finally unravel the enigma that is Henri. He wants to know everything about her.
But above all, he wants her. The real, unfiltered version she keeps hidden. And he knows earning her trust is going to be messy and unpredictable... but he's ready to steady her, to be the one who catches her every single time she stumbles.
Even if he ends up tumbling right after her.
These two are an absolute delight together. The teasing, the sparks, and those unbearably sweet moments. Liam's admiration, his constant praise, the way he's just feral for her in the softest, sweetest way? Obsessed with him and his list he keeps in his notebook about her.
"Great. They think you're a virgin loser."
When I think about falling, what occupies my mind is the inevitable brutal landing. Maybe that's because the few times I've trusted people to catch me, they didn't.
He just makes me feel seen, like the parts of me that I doubt are worth showing to the world.
"This feels so good but that just means it's going to hurt when it's gone, when you're gone. Finding reasons to shove you away is easier than being close enough to feel my heart ripped out."
November 25, 2025
This book was the perfect sweet fluffy Christmas rom-com, and I loved every second of it! Liam is one of the sweetest characters I've ever read about, and I am completely obsessed with him! I also absolutely loved Henri's character and loved being in her pov and seeing her character arc! I loved their relationship and the way it was set up and built so much, and their dynamic was just so cute and fun! I loved the whole plot setup and the way it all played out, the side characters were fantastic, and overall, in my opinion, this book is absolute perfection!
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
December 4, 2025
Cute holiday romance with a "professional" fake-dater FMC and a journalist MMC. Looking back, there was a lot going on with this story, but it seems to tie together at the end. I'm not sure how can one crush on a writer that they haven't met, but somehow Liam was Henri's celebrity crush. I love the banter - Liam was downright smitten with our commitment-phobe FMC. He blushes with every innuendo Henri throws at him but was actually surprisingly a dirty-mouthed bearrrr too. I love how he wasn't super pushy at all and SHE was actually the one who had a "fuckit" moment! The friendship and the family relationships and banter were entertaining to read. There was a surprising twist at the end that I thought was elaborated more bc it was kind of thrown out of left field but I appreciate the effort regardless. I love this couple soo much and the angst was worth the ride!
December 3, 2025
A perfect holiday read - this is my second book by Marja Graham and honestly loving the way she writes a romance. This one tugged on my 2000 rom com heart, and the whole first half of this book was perfection. Think The Holidate movie with 27 Dresses.. I loved it.
P.S. is my new favorite micro trope when an anxious, nervous man in normal life is the complete opposite in the bedroom 🥵 whew Liam was down bad for Henri, and I love him for it.
Thank you so much for allowing me the eARC!
P.S. is my new favorite micro trope when an anxious, nervous man in normal life is the complete opposite in the bedroom 🥵 whew Liam was down bad for Henri, and I love him for it.
Thank you so much for allowing me the eARC!
November 28, 2025
4.5 🌟!!!!!
November 28, 2025
“We want to be people who are worthy of love, and we want the people we care about to see us that way.”
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
After a chance meeting and in desperate need of a topic for his last article, Liam Hughes reaches out to Henri Elm, a professional holiday 'fake-dater'. As they spend time together and his article goes viral, Liam and Henri find themselves spending even more time together, when she agrees to be his fake girlfriend for the holidays.
I finished this last night and I still have the biggest ache in my chest. Graham has such a way with writing dialogue and characters that stick with you for a long time (I felt much the same after Out of Tune, and had been so excited to see this). Liam and Henri have such depths - you can immediately feel how Henri throws herself into her job and how she's so great at helping people (all while SO reluctant to accept it when it's sent her way - I absolutely felt this) and I loved seeing her connection with Liam and how he could see her and through her so clearly. (And just how gone Liam is - gosh it is all so perfect).
The banter in this is the best, they are both so clever and I had such a great time reading this. I loved how they met and how Liam wasn't able to stop thinking about her, and it felt so real how they just had that natural connection. The hours they spend and how it went by in a blink was like me reading this - just sighing and grinning over them (and definitely teared up along the way as well).
This book will forever be a part of my holiday rotation! Already wanting to go back and revisit their story. 💖
Tropes & Tags:
🎄 pro holiday date x writer/ex-athlete
❄️ fake dating
💖 holiday romance
🎄 he's her celebrity crush
❄️ spicy lessons
💖 27 Dresses + the Holidate inspired
🎄 forced proximity
❄️ he falls first
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Marja Graham! 📖]
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
After a chance meeting and in desperate need of a topic for his last article, Liam Hughes reaches out to Henri Elm, a professional holiday 'fake-dater'. As they spend time together and his article goes viral, Liam and Henri find themselves spending even more time together, when she agrees to be his fake girlfriend for the holidays.
I finished this last night and I still have the biggest ache in my chest. Graham has such a way with writing dialogue and characters that stick with you for a long time (I felt much the same after Out of Tune, and had been so excited to see this). Liam and Henri have such depths - you can immediately feel how Henri throws herself into her job and how she's so great at helping people (all while SO reluctant to accept it when it's sent her way - I absolutely felt this) and I loved seeing her connection with Liam and how he could see her and through her so clearly. (And just how gone Liam is - gosh it is all so perfect).
The banter in this is the best, they are both so clever and I had such a great time reading this. I loved how they met and how Liam wasn't able to stop thinking about her, and it felt so real how they just had that natural connection. The hours they spend and how it went by in a blink was like me reading this - just sighing and grinning over them (and definitely teared up along the way as well).
This book will forever be a part of my holiday rotation! Already wanting to go back and revisit their story. 💖
Tropes & Tags:
🎄 pro holiday date x writer/ex-athlete
❄️ fake dating
💖 holiday romance
🎄 he's her celebrity crush
❄️ spicy lessons
💖 27 Dresses + the Holidate inspired
🎄 forced proximity
❄️ he falls first
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Marja Graham! 📖]
December 4, 2025
4.5 Stars! (rounding up to a five)
A HUGE thank you to Marja and her team for an advanced eARC of this book. I am always a sucker for a holiday romance, but particularly I have been on the lookout for a holiday book that feel like the incandescant christmas lights. A neighborhood decked out in those lights, that you can see through haze and snow flurries, all while Frank Sinatra croons "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" somewhere in the distance. And boy did this deliver.
I think Marja does such a wonderful job of her stories building up all of these wonderful little small moments between the characters that contribute to that final heartwarming swoon-worthy ending. We really get the understand all of the reasons that these characters fall for each other and all their puzzle pieces click into place.
The premise of this story, a 27-Dresses (Holiday Version) inspired girlfriend for hire meets a journalist is so fun and fresh and unlike anything I've ever read before. We get to meet Henri, a mirror for all my fellow girlies who panic at the thought of having to ask for help or someone offering any. And god do I love her. All of her intricacies lend to such a realistic character who has something shake up her entire past and contribute to making her the thrifty, self-sufficient woman she is when we are introduced. Then there's Liam, our resident freckled journalist who concocts a scheme to help Henri with a problem he created. I love them both deeply and find them to be some of the most realistic characters. I love when normal, everyday people are the stars.
The settings for this story are also perfect and there isn't a shortage of holiday hijinks, wonderful side characters, and some super sweet and super sexy scenes. I loved every minute of this and you can bet it will join the holiday re-read rotation for next year.
Highly recommend, you have to give this one a try this holiday season.
A HUGE thank you to Marja and her team for an advanced eARC of this book. I am always a sucker for a holiday romance, but particularly I have been on the lookout for a holiday book that feel like the incandescant christmas lights. A neighborhood decked out in those lights, that you can see through haze and snow flurries, all while Frank Sinatra croons "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" somewhere in the distance. And boy did this deliver.
I think Marja does such a wonderful job of her stories building up all of these wonderful little small moments between the characters that contribute to that final heartwarming swoon-worthy ending. We really get the understand all of the reasons that these characters fall for each other and all their puzzle pieces click into place.
The premise of this story, a 27-Dresses (Holiday Version) inspired girlfriend for hire meets a journalist is so fun and fresh and unlike anything I've ever read before. We get to meet Henri, a mirror for all my fellow girlies who panic at the thought of having to ask for help or someone offering any. And god do I love her. All of her intricacies lend to such a realistic character who has something shake up her entire past and contribute to making her the thrifty, self-sufficient woman she is when we are introduced. Then there's Liam, our resident freckled journalist who concocts a scheme to help Henri with a problem he created. I love them both deeply and find them to be some of the most realistic characters. I love when normal, everyday people are the stars.
The settings for this story are also perfect and there isn't a shortage of holiday hijinks, wonderful side characters, and some super sweet and super sexy scenes. I loved every minute of this and you can bet it will join the holiday re-read rotation for next year.
Highly recommend, you have to give this one a try this holiday season.
November 30, 2025
THIS BOOK HAS EVERY SINGLE 2000'S ROMCOM VIBES YOU COULD IMAGINE! Yearning, heartbreak, Christmas spirit, love, banter, spice and laughs a plenty! If you love 27 dresses, Holidate and how to lose a guy in ten days, this is the book for you!
Henri is the embodiment of a hard worker. The way she learns her new roles for the 'dates' she gets hired for and to play takes a toll on her but she cant stop when she wants to help people feel like lonely or harassed by families during the holidays. Until she meets Liam, her celebrity crush who hires her to write an article about her... but she didn't expect to fall for him along the way... or finally learn who she is.
Liam, our writer and yearner's excited to learnt he mystery that its Henri and how she prepares for the 'roles' she plays when being hired, but what he craves the most? Her true and authentic self but he knows it's going to be a bumpy ride. And he's willing to be there for her and to catch her when she falls. Maybe he might fall along the way too?
These two are just so much fun. The perfect mix of teasing, flirting, banter and sickeningly sweet moments that had me giggling, kicking my feet and squealing! The scene where they recreate the different sex poses, fully clothed?!?! I was sweatinggggggg! The way he admires her! Compliments her and is just so obsessed with her! AHHHHHHH! And drum roll please.... She says 'fuck it' and kisses the hel;l out of him! UGH! YES YES YES! Maria you are a literally mastermind who knows all right things to put into a novel!
Also, LIAM "use me' HUGES might just be my favourite Marja Graham man!!!! He is the softest and gentlest out of them all (I love all my boys) but my gosh, I think I cried when he started taking acre of Henri... so take that with what you will! He is so tender and caring and gentle and sweet and AHHHHHHH! He wants to make sure she feels taken care of e even when she doesn't want it, even RAN TO HER FROM HIS PLACE IN NOTHING BUT PANTS?!??! Like can this man get any better?
Henri is for the girlies who panic when taken care of because my gosh do I relate to that! As someone who likes to take care of others no questions asked, but hates getting it in return, you will love this book ALOT! All the classic parts of every rom com and some heartfelt writing and you have perfection!
This book will be the perfect Christmas book if you are looking for you next one! It's cosy, warm and feels like a hug! I adore these two so so so much!
A huge thank you to my beautiful friend, Marja for selecting me as an ARC reader for this fun story!
Henri is the embodiment of a hard worker. The way she learns her new roles for the 'dates' she gets hired for and to play takes a toll on her but she cant stop when she wants to help people feel like lonely or harassed by families during the holidays. Until she meets Liam, her celebrity crush who hires her to write an article about her... but she didn't expect to fall for him along the way... or finally learn who she is.
Liam, our writer and yearner's excited to learnt he mystery that its Henri and how she prepares for the 'roles' she plays when being hired, but what he craves the most? Her true and authentic self but he knows it's going to be a bumpy ride. And he's willing to be there for her and to catch her when she falls. Maybe he might fall along the way too?
These two are just so much fun. The perfect mix of teasing, flirting, banter and sickeningly sweet moments that had me giggling, kicking my feet and squealing! The scene where they recreate the different sex poses, fully clothed?!?! I was sweatinggggggg! The way he admires her! Compliments her and is just so obsessed with her! AHHHHHHH! And drum roll please.... She says 'fuck it' and kisses the hel;l out of him! UGH! YES YES YES! Maria you are a literally mastermind who knows all right things to put into a novel!
Also, LIAM "use me' HUGES might just be my favourite Marja Graham man!!!! He is the softest and gentlest out of them all (I love all my boys) but my gosh, I think I cried when he started taking acre of Henri... so take that with what you will! He is so tender and caring and gentle and sweet and AHHHHHHH! He wants to make sure she feels taken care of e even when she doesn't want it, even RAN TO HER FROM HIS PLACE IN NOTHING BUT PANTS?!??! Like can this man get any better?
Henri is for the girlies who panic when taken care of because my gosh do I relate to that! As someone who likes to take care of others no questions asked, but hates getting it in return, you will love this book ALOT! All the classic parts of every rom com and some heartfelt writing and you have perfection!
This book will be the perfect Christmas book if you are looking for you next one! It's cosy, warm and feels like a hug! I adore these two so so so much!
A huge thank you to my beautiful friend, Marja for selecting me as an ARC reader for this fun story!
December 2, 2025
It's the most wonderful time of the year! And by that, I mean I'm fully in my holiday reads era for all the spice (3 peppers, there aren't many but do they pack a punch), holiday magic, and nostalgia that my brain craves and this book hits every single mark.
First, we've got fake dating, which is one of my absolute favorite tropes on the planet, but it's a fun twist on it by our FMC Henri being a date for hire and her busiest time of year being the holidays. I loved this twist, and the call backs to as many early 2000s romcoms as there could be—I died of cuteness during the 27 dresses inspirsed scene, while many relate the magazine to the Devil Wears Prada, I couldn't help think of The Bold Type (god, how I miss you so), and just a sprinkle of You've Got Mail (Herni, I need you to answer your emails ok, and read the damn articles!).
And our lovely MMC, Liam, who works at the magazine, and knows that Henri's story is worth telling and is his last hurrah before taking over the family business. So, we get both, Christmas in NYC and Christmas in our Hallmark-eqsue ski town. What more could be better? Well, Henri and Liam breaking every single rule that they have for each other and their relationships for start. An uber competitive family (seriously, it felt like my own, and there's just something about the holidays that turns it up a notch). Real life trauma they both have to overcome before they can accept themselves and each other...and a New Years countdown that left me breathless.
To me, an instant holiday classic.
And if they fates allow, we'll get to come back and see Pen, June, Iris and Jasmine and all they chaos they get up to. We're gonna get that right?
First, we've got fake dating, which is one of my absolute favorite tropes on the planet, but it's a fun twist on it by our FMC Henri being a date for hire and her busiest time of year being the holidays. I loved this twist, and the call backs to as many early 2000s romcoms as there could be—I died of cuteness during the 27 dresses inspirsed scene, while many relate the magazine to the Devil Wears Prada, I couldn't help think of The Bold Type (god, how I miss you so), and just a sprinkle of You've Got Mail (Herni, I need you to answer your emails ok, and read the damn articles!).
And our lovely MMC, Liam, who works at the magazine, and knows that Henri's story is worth telling and is his last hurrah before taking over the family business. So, we get both, Christmas in NYC and Christmas in our Hallmark-eqsue ski town. What more could be better? Well, Henri and Liam breaking every single rule that they have for each other and their relationships for start. An uber competitive family (seriously, it felt like my own, and there's just something about the holidays that turns it up a notch). Real life trauma they both have to overcome before they can accept themselves and each other...and a New Years countdown that left me breathless.
To me, an instant holiday classic.
And if they fates allow, we'll get to come back and see Pen, June, Iris and Jasmine and all they chaos they get up to. We're gonna get that right?
November 22, 2025
ARC REVIEW!!
I was lucky enough to be accepted to read If The Fates Allow early. It got me very nostalgic and thinking of Cloud 9 the whole time🤭
Liam had me giggling so much, just a blushing sweetheart who wants to make things easier for Henri. Henri is very stubborn, doesn’t let anyone help her. Enter Liam and she doesn’t know how to act, so she does what she does best and fake dates him for the holidays while he writes about her.
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In answer, he pulls out the hat the same color as my coat and pulls it onto my head, causing my short hair to flip out around my ears. I yelp, tearing it off and almost send it to the ground to be trampled. Instead, I leap up and attempt to put it on Liam, but he catches my wrists, holding me in place so my body is pressed against his. Even through my layers, my atoms seem to vibrate—on high alert. Heat swells in my belly. Danger. Danger. Danger. “Take the hat, Henri,” he orders and fuck me it’s kind of hot. “It’s too expensive. I saw the prices in that store.” “It’s a gift.” His hands slide up to work the cap from my grip. The scrape of his fingers against my palms sends a shiver through me and he must feel it because he says, “You’re cold, and the tips of your ears always seem like they’re on the verge of getting frostbite and falling off.”
“Of course it will. The great L. Hughes is writing it.” “You give me too much credit.” “I don’t think you give yourself enough credit.” I don’t want this to end, this resonant humming between us.
I was lucky enough to be accepted to read If The Fates Allow early. It got me very nostalgic and thinking of Cloud 9 the whole time🤭
Liam had me giggling so much, just a blushing sweetheart who wants to make things easier for Henri. Henri is very stubborn, doesn’t let anyone help her. Enter Liam and she doesn’t know how to act, so she does what she does best and fake dates him for the holidays while he writes about her.
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In answer, he pulls out the hat the same color as my coat and pulls it onto my head, causing my short hair to flip out around my ears. I yelp, tearing it off and almost send it to the ground to be trampled. Instead, I leap up and attempt to put it on Liam, but he catches my wrists, holding me in place so my body is pressed against his. Even through my layers, my atoms seem to vibrate—on high alert. Heat swells in my belly. Danger. Danger. Danger. “Take the hat, Henri,” he orders and fuck me it’s kind of hot. “It’s too expensive. I saw the prices in that store.” “It’s a gift.” His hands slide up to work the cap from my grip. The scrape of his fingers against my palms sends a shiver through me and he must feel it because he says, “You’re cold, and the tips of your ears always seem like they’re on the verge of getting frostbite and falling off.”
“Of course it will. The great L. Hughes is writing it.” “You give me too much credit.” “I don’t think you give yourself enough credit.” I don’t want this to end, this resonant humming between us.
November 28, 2025
Marja Grahams has become one of my favourite authors, and although this book wasn’t for me, I can’t stop recommending her previous series. Her books about Fools Gambit are extraordinary, the last one had my heart in a grip. Unfortunately this book didn’t work the same way.
This book is about Henri, an independent and resilient young woman with quite heavy trusting problems. She had a traumatic experience in the past that left her reeling! So now, she builds her life without counting on anyone. She works as a bartender in NYC but her main job, what makes her proud , she’s a professional plus one in dates, events, holidays.
Being in the middle of a series of dates, she mets Liam, a writer in what happens to be her favourite magazine and asks her an interview.
With that context, Liam asked her to be his plus one in the Christmas Holidays (using the article as an excuse, because the attraction is palpable).
Great premise but the evolution of the characters was a little shallow for me and the change in Liam’s attitude a little bit abrupt. I won’t stop reading Maria’s books, of course, even after this book not being my favourite.
Tropes you can find in this book:
- fake dating
- Christmas holidays romance
- trusting issues
- found family
- traumatic past event
- dual 1st person POV
- slow burn
This book has open door scenes that came after the slow burn build up.
My ratings:
3/5⭐️
1,5/5🌶️
I’ve received this book as an ARC and I’d like to thank the author, Marja Graham for letting me read this book in advance and allow me to give my honest opinion.
This book is about Henri, an independent and resilient young woman with quite heavy trusting problems. She had a traumatic experience in the past that left her reeling! So now, she builds her life without counting on anyone. She works as a bartender in NYC but her main job, what makes her proud , she’s a professional plus one in dates, events, holidays.
Being in the middle of a series of dates, she mets Liam, a writer in what happens to be her favourite magazine and asks her an interview.
With that context, Liam asked her to be his plus one in the Christmas Holidays (using the article as an excuse, because the attraction is palpable).
Great premise but the evolution of the characters was a little shallow for me and the change in Liam’s attitude a little bit abrupt. I won’t stop reading Maria’s books, of course, even after this book not being my favourite.
Tropes you can find in this book:
- fake dating
- Christmas holidays romance
- trusting issues
- found family
- traumatic past event
- dual 1st person POV
- slow burn
This book has open door scenes that came after the slow burn build up.
My ratings:
3/5⭐️
1,5/5🌶️
I’ve received this book as an ARC and I’d like to thank the author, Marja Graham for letting me read this book in advance and allow me to give my honest opinion.
December 1, 2025
If the Fates Allow ARC Review
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of If the Fates Allow by Marja Graham. All opinions are my own and given freely. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
content warning: financial trauma (and the stress, hypervigilance, and anxiety that comes from it), incarcerated parent (white collar crime), discussions of food restrictions relating to athlete training, sexual harassment, explicit sexual content (including elements of bondage).
“home. this is what home feels like. the place where i belong is here in his arms.”
my fourth holiday read of the year and yet another one that i am obsessed with!! if the fates allow is such a cute and cozy holiday read; it will definitely put you in the holiday spirit!! like all of marja’s previous work, this book had my attention from the very first line! i just adored henri and liam, these two together were such a dream! plus, i am a sucker for anything fake dating related and marja did the trope absolute justice!!
henri and liam were so adorable together, i loved them so much! everything about their relationship felt genuine, nothing felt forced. the chemistry was evident between them from the beginning and i just loved how deeply they cared for each other. these two really helped each other grow and allowed each other the space to just be themselves.
i really loved getting to know and fall in love with these characters!! thank you so much for giving me the chance to read if the fates allow early! ❤️
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of If the Fates Allow by Marja Graham. All opinions are my own and given freely. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
content warning: financial trauma (and the stress, hypervigilance, and anxiety that comes from it), incarcerated parent (white collar crime), discussions of food restrictions relating to athlete training, sexual harassment, explicit sexual content (including elements of bondage).
“home. this is what home feels like. the place where i belong is here in his arms.”
my fourth holiday read of the year and yet another one that i am obsessed with!! if the fates allow is such a cute and cozy holiday read; it will definitely put you in the holiday spirit!! like all of marja’s previous work, this book had my attention from the very first line! i just adored henri and liam, these two together were such a dream! plus, i am a sucker for anything fake dating related and marja did the trope absolute justice!!
henri and liam were so adorable together, i loved them so much! everything about their relationship felt genuine, nothing felt forced. the chemistry was evident between them from the beginning and i just loved how deeply they cared for each other. these two really helped each other grow and allowed each other the space to just be themselves.
i really loved getting to know and fall in love with these characters!! thank you so much for giving me the chance to read if the fates allow early! ❤️
November 29, 2025
What a spicy lighthearted holiday read! This is perfect for a weekend or even a day read. The vibe of this book is upscale holiday romcom hallmark movie with spice. This is a great read for those who love the fake dating trope.
Despite the length, the author does a wonderful job at developing a story that doesn't feel rushed or lacking in development, which can be difficult in a shorter read. The story is not necessarily unique, but the author offers their own spin making it not seem repetitive. Also, the spice is nicely intertwined into the story and did not feel unnecessary or overwhelming.
The character development was beautifully done, I was given enough detail on all the characters to feel connected to the story. Sometimes shorter reads lose focus of the side characters, which can detach me from the story, although they are not the main characters side characters can add a lot of value. The author did a nice job, at keeping the side characters relevant throughout the story while keeping the focus on Henri and Liam.
Overall, this was everything I love in a good holiday read it had me laughing, smiling, blushing, and cheerful. This is dual POV, which I love because the reader gets both Henri and Liam's perspectives creating a well rounded story.
Despite the length, the author does a wonderful job at developing a story that doesn't feel rushed or lacking in development, which can be difficult in a shorter read. The story is not necessarily unique, but the author offers their own spin making it not seem repetitive. Also, the spice is nicely intertwined into the story and did not feel unnecessary or overwhelming.
The character development was beautifully done, I was given enough detail on all the characters to feel connected to the story. Sometimes shorter reads lose focus of the side characters, which can detach me from the story, although they are not the main characters side characters can add a lot of value. The author did a nice job, at keeping the side characters relevant throughout the story while keeping the focus on Henri and Liam.
Overall, this was everything I love in a good holiday read it had me laughing, smiling, blushing, and cheerful. This is dual POV, which I love because the reader gets both Henri and Liam's perspectives creating a well rounded story.
December 1, 2025
Marja Graham stworzyła cudo. If the Fates Allow (oh, they did) to idealna świąteczna książka dla osób, które kochają romcomy. ❤️
Fake dating, świąteczny klimat, profesjonalna „fake-date” i dziennikarz. Do tego rodzinny pensjonat w górach, dużo śniegu oraz bohaterowie, którzy naprawdę mają coś do przepracowania.
W książce poznajemy historię Henri — profesjonalnej udawanej partnerki, która ma problem z przywiązywaniem się, oraz Liam’a — dziennikarza. Poznają się zupełnie przypadkiem na ulicach Nowego Jorku i – za sprawą losu – wpadają na siebie kilka razy w krótkim czasie. Ich znajomość zaczyna się od wywiadu, który Liam ma za zadanie przeprowadzić. Później ich relacja rozwija się na bazie udawanego związku pod kolejny artykuł, przez przyjaźń, aż do momentu, w którym chemia jest tak oczywista, że udawanie przestaje mieć sens. Jedyną przeszkodą są nieprzepracowane traumy z przeszłości.
To taka książka, którą czytasz pod kocem i prosisz, by nigdy się nie kończyła. Idealna na grudzień, przerwę świąteczną albo gdy po prostu chcesz poczuć magię świątecznego romcomu, niezależnie od miesiąca. Pochłonęłam ją w jeden dzień i żałuję, że nie sięgnęłam po nią wcześniej. Zdecydowanie polecam! ✨
Fake dating, świąteczny klimat, profesjonalna „fake-date” i dziennikarz. Do tego rodzinny pensjonat w górach, dużo śniegu oraz bohaterowie, którzy naprawdę mają coś do przepracowania.
W książce poznajemy historię Henri — profesjonalnej udawanej partnerki, która ma problem z przywiązywaniem się, oraz Liam’a — dziennikarza. Poznają się zupełnie przypadkiem na ulicach Nowego Jorku i – za sprawą losu – wpadają na siebie kilka razy w krótkim czasie. Ich znajomość zaczyna się od wywiadu, który Liam ma za zadanie przeprowadzić. Później ich relacja rozwija się na bazie udawanego związku pod kolejny artykuł, przez przyjaźń, aż do momentu, w którym chemia jest tak oczywista, że udawanie przestaje mieć sens. Jedyną przeszkodą są nieprzepracowane traumy z przeszłości.
To taka książka, którą czytasz pod kocem i prosisz, by nigdy się nie kończyła. Idealna na grudzień, przerwę świąteczną albo gdy po prostu chcesz poczuć magię świątecznego romcomu, niezależnie od miesiąca. Pochłonęłam ją w jeden dzień i żałuję, że nie sięgnęłam po nią wcześniej. Zdecydowanie polecam! ✨
December 3, 2025
4⭐️
2.5🌶️
Don’t you love it when a book feels like a movie? Especially a holiday romance? Because I absolutely do 🙋🏽♀️ and this one delivered that feeling from the very first chapter. It had that warm, cinematic charm that makes you want to curl up under a blanket and just sink into the story.
This was such a sweet and wholesome romance with a fake dating twist I genuinely hadn’t seen before. The setup felt fresh and fun, and the way the author executed it made the whole story feel effortless. The writing was beautiful and both characters felt layered, complex, and so easy to root for.
One of my absolute favorite parts was the found family element since that’s one of my go to tropes. I loved how both main characters created a home away from home with this incredibly interesting and wonderful group of friends. It added so much heart and depth and gave the story that comforting holiday magic.
I do think there were a few pacing issues where some scenes didn’t transition as smoothly as they could have, especially toward the end. It wasn’t enough to pull me out of the story but it was noticeable. That said, it absolutely didn’t stop me from enjoying every bit of this romance or wanting to pick up more books from this author.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5🌶️
Don’t you love it when a book feels like a movie? Especially a holiday romance? Because I absolutely do 🙋🏽♀️ and this one delivered that feeling from the very first chapter. It had that warm, cinematic charm that makes you want to curl up under a blanket and just sink into the story.
This was such a sweet and wholesome romance with a fake dating twist I genuinely hadn’t seen before. The setup felt fresh and fun, and the way the author executed it made the whole story feel effortless. The writing was beautiful and both characters felt layered, complex, and so easy to root for.
One of my absolute favorite parts was the found family element since that’s one of my go to tropes. I loved how both main characters created a home away from home with this incredibly interesting and wonderful group of friends. It added so much heart and depth and gave the story that comforting holiday magic.
I do think there were a few pacing issues where some scenes didn’t transition as smoothly as they could have, especially toward the end. It wasn’t enough to pull me out of the story but it was noticeable. That said, it absolutely didn’t stop me from enjoying every bit of this romance or wanting to pick up more books from this author.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2025
If Marja writes it, I’m reading it. The way she effortlessly captures what are seemingly insignificant moments but end up being so intimate is just muah. The conversations flow so naturally & the familial & friend dynamics are perfect.
There’s a little angst, a little ache, a little “oh jeez this hurts” but in the best way possible.
Liam is a besotted man from the start!!! He’s nerdy, he’s clumsy, he’s endearing, he’s also got a mouth on him (it’s delicious truly).
Henri is me & I am her. Anxious avoidant to the max & honestly I don’t blame her one bit. Her past sucks. But she’s overcoming it slowly (no seriously it’s slow but worth it). She’s got layers & interests & is a whole person you’d wanna get past her walls to be friends with.
The way the two of them just fall naturally together & protect each other & stand up for each other is so so so good!!!
Safe to say I am obsessed!!! Obsessed!!! Can’t wait for whatever else may come (if Penelope gets a book I will be the first in line)
Thank you to the wonderfully lovely Marja for an eARC! Review & opinion are honest and my own!!
There’s a little angst, a little ache, a little “oh jeez this hurts” but in the best way possible.
Liam is a besotted man from the start!!! He’s nerdy, he’s clumsy, he’s endearing, he’s also got a mouth on him (it’s delicious truly).
Henri is me & I am her. Anxious avoidant to the max & honestly I don’t blame her one bit. Her past sucks. But she’s overcoming it slowly (no seriously it’s slow but worth it). She’s got layers & interests & is a whole person you’d wanna get past her walls to be friends with.
The way the two of them just fall naturally together & protect each other & stand up for each other is so so so good!!!
Safe to say I am obsessed!!! Obsessed!!! Can’t wait for whatever else may come (if Penelope gets a book I will be the first in line)
Thank you to the wonderfully lovely Marja for an eARC! Review & opinion are honest and my own!!
November 25, 2025
“We want to be people who are worthy of love, and we want the people we care about to see us that way.”
Okay I am OBSESSED!!! This book was giving Failure to Launch mixed with How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, but with 100% transparency (unlike the movies 🤣) & Christmasy vibes 🥹✨🎄
My girly Henri was such a cutie fashionista who was just trying to survive after being handed some shitty cards in life; she came off as go-with-the-flow, but actually had so many rules for herself to avoid getting hurt again 😭
I really pictured Liam as Matty from 13 going on 30 - just a devilishly handsome nerdy guy with a heart of gold who will do anything for the girl he’s down-bad for 🤭😏 his family was SO fun && I loved seeing the bond between him and his siblings
🎄 Fake Holi-dating
❤️ He Falls First
❄️ Spicy hot tub Scene
✨ Forced Proximity
⛷️ Ex-athlete
💋 “teach me” Moments
I will not be shutting up about this book now that I’ve read it - it was SO good & gave me all the cozy romcom vibes (as you can probably tell from all the references used in this review) 😭
Huge thank you to Marja for my advanced copy; truly so grateful I saw a random threads post and decided to sign up 🤣🫶🏻
Okay I am OBSESSED!!! This book was giving Failure to Launch mixed with How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, but with 100% transparency (unlike the movies 🤣) & Christmasy vibes 🥹✨🎄
My girly Henri was such a cutie fashionista who was just trying to survive after being handed some shitty cards in life; she came off as go-with-the-flow, but actually had so many rules for herself to avoid getting hurt again 😭
I really pictured Liam as Matty from 13 going on 30 - just a devilishly handsome nerdy guy with a heart of gold who will do anything for the girl he’s down-bad for 🤭😏 his family was SO fun && I loved seeing the bond between him and his siblings
🎄 Fake Holi-dating
❤️ He Falls First
❄️ Spicy hot tub Scene
✨ Forced Proximity
⛷️ Ex-athlete
💋 “teach me” Moments
I will not be shutting up about this book now that I’ve read it - it was SO good & gave me all the cozy romcom vibes (as you can probably tell from all the references used in this review) 😭
Huge thank you to Marja for my advanced copy; truly so grateful I saw a random threads post and decided to sign up 🤣🫶🏻
December 1, 2025
Marja blew me away with this one. When she said it was 27 dresses meets Failure to Launch, I thought this was just going to be another cliche hallmark style romcom but man am I glad I was wrong! This is such sweet and heartwarming story perfect for the holiday season. It is spicy but I argue it continued the plot in a natural way. I love the messiness and almost lost type that Liam is. I fell for his character immediately from the first page. I love how Marja chose to write him as compared to most of the broody mmcs I read. This was more than a palette cleanser for me, this was an experience not just a book. Through Marja’s writing, I was able to picture myself in with Henri in New York and at the ski resort with Liam. It is cliche like most romcoms but in a good way. It is a one book kinda story but If there’s an interconnected storyline then that would be amazing because I love Iris and Jasmine and Liam’s sisters. This book has made me a fan of Marja Graham and I recommend this to those who want a fun emotional holiday story that starts with a fake dating trope and ends with one big happy family.
December 2, 2025
****4.5 stars****
When I closed the pages on this book I had to take a second to reflect to ensure I gave it a proper review.
I would say go into this book preparing yourself to take your time, because this book takes it time really revealing itself, and I mean that in the best possible way. When we talk about a slow burn in the romance world we are usually talking about spice … and while that’s true in this book as well… the slow burn was really digging in to get to know these characters, learning them, knowing them, and then getting rewarded with a really beautiful story.
Henri and Liam are nuanced both as individuals and together. Marja did a great job telling their stories and intertwining them together the further the book progressed. Henri’s insecurities are super relatable. Liam’s ability to pay attention to her is the stuff dreams are made of. His notebook? Swoon.
I feel like there’s a lot more I could say about this but I go off vibes and don’t like to reveal TOO much so I would say if your vibe is a slow burn holiday romance story that in equal parts may position you to self reflect while also giving you that spicy, feel good HEA feeling … go read this right now. 🖤🖤
When I closed the pages on this book I had to take a second to reflect to ensure I gave it a proper review.
I would say go into this book preparing yourself to take your time, because this book takes it time really revealing itself, and I mean that in the best possible way. When we talk about a slow burn in the romance world we are usually talking about spice … and while that’s true in this book as well… the slow burn was really digging in to get to know these characters, learning them, knowing them, and then getting rewarded with a really beautiful story.
Henri and Liam are nuanced both as individuals and together. Marja did a great job telling their stories and intertwining them together the further the book progressed. Henri’s insecurities are super relatable. Liam’s ability to pay attention to her is the stuff dreams are made of. His notebook? Swoon.
I feel like there’s a lot more I could say about this but I go off vibes and don’t like to reveal TOO much so I would say if your vibe is a slow burn holiday romance story that in equal parts may position you to self reflect while also giving you that spicy, feel good HEA feeling … go read this right now. 🖤🖤
November 21, 2025
Thank you again for the opportunity to receive an arc copy of this book!
This was a quick and lovely read. This is my second book and there’s something about this authors writing that I absolutely love. Her characters always feel real and raw, it makes me reflect a lot on my own writing. But that’s besides the point. If the Fates Allow is a cozy, Christmas read that feels perfect for the time now!
It’s not often that I get to read about the whole, hire a girlfriend, plot but I think it’s becoming my favorite. Henri is a strong, very independent woman who simply wants to belong, to feel loved, and to be seen for her and not for the multiple roles she has to play.
Liam is a man after my own heart at this point, and I would love to have a man so attentive like he is 🥹 He’s a good guy with a heart of gold and a need to always be helpful, in a sense, just like Henri. I had so much fun reading their story, watching them interact, and the banter!! Good shit.
And I rarely speak on the spicy moments of the books but this was some spice if I do say so myself.
This was a quick and lovely read. This is my second book and there’s something about this authors writing that I absolutely love. Her characters always feel real and raw, it makes me reflect a lot on my own writing. But that’s besides the point. If the Fates Allow is a cozy, Christmas read that feels perfect for the time now!
It’s not often that I get to read about the whole, hire a girlfriend, plot but I think it’s becoming my favorite. Henri is a strong, very independent woman who simply wants to belong, to feel loved, and to be seen for her and not for the multiple roles she has to play.
Liam is a man after my own heart at this point, and I would love to have a man so attentive like he is 🥹 He’s a good guy with a heart of gold and a need to always be helpful, in a sense, just like Henri. I had so much fun reading their story, watching them interact, and the banter!! Good shit.
And I rarely speak on the spicy moments of the books but this was some spice if I do say so myself.
November 23, 2025
🎿ARC Review🎿
4 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I really enjoyed this book. It had a 27 dresses feel but with a twist I loved. The story was gripping, so much so I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one sitting. 🫣
I loved the beginning of this book, Henri and Liam’s first meeting was pure gold! Liam himself is like a blushing teddy bear and is such a sweetheart. The growth of Liam’s care and protectiveness over Henri was swoon worthy. And Henri’s stubbornness and inner torment between her heart and head felt very realistic to me. As a couple they are fantastic and so cute. 🥰
The main plot point of the story was Liam being forced by his father to take over the family business. It effected his relationship with Henri, his family and his job significantly and there was a lot of build up and tension about this. The resolution scene was good but fell a little flat for me.
The New Years scene definitely made up for it though.😍
In the end the story was wrapped up on a very sweet note, and has me looking up more by Marja Graham. 🥰
4 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I really enjoyed this book. It had a 27 dresses feel but with a twist I loved. The story was gripping, so much so I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one sitting. 🫣
I loved the beginning of this book, Henri and Liam’s first meeting was pure gold! Liam himself is like a blushing teddy bear and is such a sweetheart. The growth of Liam’s care and protectiveness over Henri was swoon worthy. And Henri’s stubbornness and inner torment between her heart and head felt very realistic to me. As a couple they are fantastic and so cute. 🥰
The main plot point of the story was Liam being forced by his father to take over the family business. It effected his relationship with Henri, his family and his job significantly and there was a lot of build up and tension about this. The resolution scene was good but fell a little flat for me.
The New Years scene definitely made up for it though.😍
In the end the story was wrapped up on a very sweet note, and has me looking up more by Marja Graham. 🥰
November 28, 2025
arc review - releasing dec 1. !!
what to expect…
Fake dating
Professional Fake Date X Journalist
Teach Me
Ex-Athlete
New York to Small Mountain Town
Family Drama
This holiday romance is going to be your next favorite read; a sweet romance filled with banter, sweet emotional vulnerability, healing parts of themselves the never allowed to be seen before and cozy holiday vibes to get you in the spirit ♥️
Henris searching for the next step, held back by her past and keeping herself at arms length to protect herself from another loss. But Liam comes in, breaking down her walls by seeing her as she is and allowing her to chase her dreams - even if he’s struggling to prioritize his own.
Gosh these two- the vulnerability they both show, even when it’s never been that easy before and when they both have a deadline looming. I loved watching Henri open herself up, to Liam and her own dreams, allowing herself to feeling the love surrounding her without bounds. Liam…the man he is, showing up even when being pushed away and how he truly lets his connection with Henri motivate him to prioritize his own wants. These two really helped each other grow, live freely without looming timelines or conditions. Marja really brought us a story full of two characters who will give you the warm & fuzzys, the nostalgia of the holidays and a reflection of what we can have if we allow ourselves to be put out there🫶🏻
Thank you to @mjgraham.author for the opportunity to read an early copy for review!
what to expect…
Fake dating
Professional Fake Date X Journalist
Teach Me
Ex-Athlete
New York to Small Mountain Town
Family Drama
This holiday romance is going to be your next favorite read; a sweet romance filled with banter, sweet emotional vulnerability, healing parts of themselves the never allowed to be seen before and cozy holiday vibes to get you in the spirit ♥️
Henris searching for the next step, held back by her past and keeping herself at arms length to protect herself from another loss. But Liam comes in, breaking down her walls by seeing her as she is and allowing her to chase her dreams - even if he’s struggling to prioritize his own.
Gosh these two- the vulnerability they both show, even when it’s never been that easy before and when they both have a deadline looming. I loved watching Henri open herself up, to Liam and her own dreams, allowing herself to feeling the love surrounding her without bounds. Liam…the man he is, showing up even when being pushed away and how he truly lets his connection with Henri motivate him to prioritize his own wants. These two really helped each other grow, live freely without looming timelines or conditions. Marja really brought us a story full of two characters who will give you the warm & fuzzys, the nostalgia of the holidays and a reflection of what we can have if we allow ourselves to be put out there🫶🏻
Thank you to @mjgraham.author for the opportunity to read an early copy for review!
November 26, 2025
this book was such an amazing holiday romance. i really enjoyed so many different aspects of this book from the setting changes, to the laugh out loud banter and the slow burn romance.
first i want to talk about henri because i loved her so much! i love that as the story went on she learned to stand up for herself and the people she cared about. i related to her character because i tend to push people away as soon as they get close.
next i need to talk about liam, the man that he is. ugh i loved him so much. i already liked the whole nerdy writer vibe but then we got the library scene and i was done for. he talks her through it… every time 🫠🫠. also the way he takes care of her was so sweet.
i loved the last few chapters and how the title really tied in to what was going on in the story. i love how the red hat was what brought them together and liam finally stood up to his dad. i really recommend this book for anyone looking for a book with banter but also tension and a little bit of christmas magic!
first i want to talk about henri because i loved her so much! i love that as the story went on she learned to stand up for herself and the people she cared about. i related to her character because i tend to push people away as soon as they get close.
next i need to talk about liam, the man that he is. ugh i loved him so much. i already liked the whole nerdy writer vibe but then we got the library scene and i was done for. he talks her through it… every time 🫠🫠. also the way he takes care of her was so sweet.
i loved the last few chapters and how the title really tied in to what was going on in the story. i love how the red hat was what brought them together and liam finally stood up to his dad. i really recommend this book for anyone looking for a book with banter but also tension and a little bit of christmas magic!
November 21, 2025
"Or more that I'm anxious about making things into a competition. The way I grew up, my friends were also the people I was trying to beat. I was always told to be suspicious of people who got too close."
With Christmas coming up, my never ending tbr has been quite intimidating. When I received an email saying that I got an ARC for this book, I opened it immediately. Everyone knows that I love me some banter and I was obsessed with everything to do with this book. Marja...ma'am!! I love this book and I am sure that I will continue to think about every character. The way that Liam blushes around Henri truly made me scream into my pillow every time.
This read begins with fake dating but obviously they FALL for each other. This book is incredibly relatable if you struggle with asking for help, you're in your later 20s, and if you just want a man to teach you. Thank you for the arc, Marja! I am in love with this book...6 stars!
With Christmas coming up, my never ending tbr has been quite intimidating. When I received an email saying that I got an ARC for this book, I opened it immediately. Everyone knows that I love me some banter and I was obsessed with everything to do with this book. Marja...ma'am!! I love this book and I am sure that I will continue to think about every character. The way that Liam blushes around Henri truly made me scream into my pillow every time.
This read begins with fake dating but obviously they FALL for each other. This book is incredibly relatable if you struggle with asking for help, you're in your later 20s, and if you just want a man to teach you. Thank you for the arc, Marja! I am in love with this book...6 stars!
November 25, 2025
4.5 STARS
If you love the feel of a classic romcom, professional dater/fake dating, and/or mutual pining - you'll absolutely adore this book. I'm so glad the author decided to expand this from a novella to the full-fledged love story it became and that I got the opportunity to read and review the arc.
Liam and Henri meet under hilarious circumstances and find themselves linked in more ways than they realize. As they get closer and the pull between them gets stronger, the story doesn't suffer at all - which I find it does with a lot of romcoms. A lot of times with a romcom book, the romance is the focus, and the story will lose heart in favor of steam and spice. If The Fates Allow only gains heart as the story progresses(though there is absolutely also steam and spice).
If you love a romance where they stand up for each other, grow together, and help each other realize their dreams and their worth? Pick this up! You'll be happy you did.
If you love the feel of a classic romcom, professional dater/fake dating, and/or mutual pining - you'll absolutely adore this book. I'm so glad the author decided to expand this from a novella to the full-fledged love story it became and that I got the opportunity to read and review the arc.
Liam and Henri meet under hilarious circumstances and find themselves linked in more ways than they realize. As they get closer and the pull between them gets stronger, the story doesn't suffer at all - which I find it does with a lot of romcoms. A lot of times with a romcom book, the romance is the focus, and the story will lose heart in favor of steam and spice. If The Fates Allow only gains heart as the story progresses(though there is absolutely also steam and spice).
If you love a romance where they stand up for each other, grow together, and help each other realize their dreams and their worth? Pick this up! You'll be happy you did.
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