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The Favorites #3
My Favorite Fake Romance
Faking it never felt this good.
Dr. Easton Walsh thought she’d be showing up to her best friend’s wedding with a dazzling ring and a fiancé everyone wanted to Instagram. Instead, her boyfriend dumped her over what was supposed to be a proposal dinner and the only man offering her a lifeline is the last one she’d ever choose: Elijah Cabot. Her best friend’s older brother. The guy who broke her heart once already.
He'll help make her ex jealous...All she has to do is help him drive his grandmother across several states to the wedding. Easy.
But the fake relationship is starting to feel real, and the longer the trip goes on, the harder it is for Easton to remember that Boston—and her carefully built life—don’t include Elijah. Especially when her ex starts dangling threats that could derail her career if she doesn’t come back to him.
Now Easton has to risk everything for a second chance at the one man she shouldn’t want…or keep playing it safe, even if it means losing the best thing that’s ever happened to her—again.
Dr. Easton Walsh thought she’d be showing up to her best friend’s wedding with a dazzling ring and a fiancé everyone wanted to Instagram. Instead, her boyfriend dumped her over what was supposed to be a proposal dinner and the only man offering her a lifeline is the last one she’d ever choose: Elijah Cabot. Her best friend’s older brother. The guy who broke her heart once already.
He'll help make her ex jealous...All she has to do is help him drive his grandmother across several states to the wedding. Easy.
But the fake relationship is starting to feel real, and the longer the trip goes on, the harder it is for Easton to remember that Boston—and her carefully built life—don’t include Elijah. Especially when her ex starts dangling threats that could derail her career if she doesn’t come back to him.
Now Easton has to risk everything for a second chance at the one man she shouldn’t want…or keep playing it safe, even if it means losing the best thing that’s ever happened to her—again.
334 pages, Paperback
First published December 11, 2025
681 people are currently reading
5664 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth O'Roark
30 books7,641 followersElizabeth O’Roark lives in Washington, DC with her 3 children. After many years spent writing scintillating brochures about amniocentesis and heart surgery, she is thrilled to have found a job that allows her to just make s*** up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 651 reviews
December 29, 2025
Dr. Easton Walsh assumed she’d be attending her best friend’s wedding with a diamond on her finger and a gorgeous guy by her side. When her old flame, Elijah, who happens to be her best friend’s older brother, agrees to come to the rescue and help to make her ex jealous, in exchange for a multi-state road trip to bring his grandmother back for the wedding, she agrees. Soon sparks are flying as old resentments are revisited, and a very meddlesome octogenarian becomes determined to make them see what is right in front of their eyes.
As soon as I finished beta reading this book, I knew instantly it was my favorite of a series that could easily be my favorite (pun intended). The main characters quickly took a hold on my heart and refused to let go. While fake dating can sometimes be hit or miss for me, it was very much a winner in this one. And in case you need a few laugh-out-loud moments in your romcoms, the hella feisty, meddling grandma’s were the cherry on top.
Read if you like:
▪️second chance romance
▪️fake dating
▪️forced proximity
▪️age gap
▪️quirky characters
▪️pitch perfect spice
📌 The Favorites Series, book #3
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Valentine PR and Elizabeth O’Roark for the gifted advanced ebook and alc.
. . . . . .
NOTES WHILE BETA READING:
100% and done. Perfection 😍
40% - I’m dying at the granny banter 😆🤣😂 this book is so fun.
Beta read here we go! I have every plan to finish this one today. Of course I’m already intrigued at only a few pages in.
As soon as I finished beta reading this book, I knew instantly it was my favorite of a series that could easily be my favorite (pun intended). The main characters quickly took a hold on my heart and refused to let go. While fake dating can sometimes be hit or miss for me, it was very much a winner in this one. And in case you need a few laugh-out-loud moments in your romcoms, the hella feisty, meddling grandma’s were the cherry on top.
Read if you like:
▪️second chance romance
▪️fake dating
▪️forced proximity
▪️age gap
▪️quirky characters
▪️pitch perfect spice
📌 The Favorites Series, book #3
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Valentine PR and Elizabeth O’Roark for the gifted advanced ebook and alc.
. . . . . .
NOTES WHILE BETA READING:
100% and done. Perfection 😍
40% - I’m dying at the granny banter 😆🤣😂 this book is so fun.
Beta read here we go! I have every plan to finish this one today. Of course I’m already intrigued at only a few pages in.
Currently reading
December 12, 2025Available now!
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Narrated by Kasi Hollowell and James Cassidy
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Download today or read for FREE with #kindleunlimited
Amazon: http://bit.ly/4pPTwE4
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/0M24d
Audible: https://bit.ly/4oVdjAr
Narrated by Kasi Hollowell and James Cassidy
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/4gPzmGc
December 15, 2025
3 stars | This one is my least favorite of the series. For all Elijah claimed to love Easton he sure wasn’t willing to fight for hers or his own happiness. A man that isn’t creative enough to brainstorm other ways you could be together will keep letting you down with his lack of imagination. All I saw was him unwilling to make a single sacrifice for Easton. He would rather break her heart repeatedly than inconvenience one of his family members.
Let’s be real, had he talked to his mother or his sister about his feelings at any point in the last 5 years they would have had his problems solved in 10 minutes flat. And he knew how much his mother meant to Easton so not finding a way for them to still have a relationship was also extremely cruel.
With that said, it was still written by O’Roark and therefore an enjoyable read. Despite my gripes, I breezed through it and had a good time. It just fell a little flat compared to the emotional depth of the first two books in the series.
Let’s be real, had he talked to his mother or his sister about his feelings at any point in the last 5 years they would have had his problems solved in 10 minutes flat. And he knew how much his mother meant to Easton so not finding a way for them to still have a relationship was also extremely cruel.
With that said, it was still written by O’Roark and therefore an enjoyable read. Despite my gripes, I breezed through it and had a good time. It just fell a little flat compared to the emotional depth of the first two books in the series.
December 10, 2025
"I'm incapable of looking at anything but you."
I don’t even have words to describe how much this book consumed me. From the very first page, I was completely lost in Easton and Elijah’s world. The chemistry between them isn’t just intense. It’s absolutely magnetic, shocking, and utterly addictive. Every glance, every touch, every witty remark made my heart skip a beat. The banter between them had me laughing, swooning, and tearing up all at the same time. Their personalities collide, spark, and eventually harmonize in a way that feels so natural, so inevitable, that it’s impossible not to fall in love alongside them.
Elijah, where do I even begin? He is the ultimate book boyfriend, the kind of character who makes your heart ache and melt simultaneously. His protectiveness, his obsession with Easton, the way he’s completely devoted to her in ways both big and small. I swear, I have never swooned so hard over a fictional character. He is everything you dream of in a hero, passionate, fierce, tender, and heartbreakingly real.
And Easton, oh, my heart. She has become one of my favorite characters of all time. The depth of her thoughts, her strength, her vulnerability, it all hit me so hard. Watching her confront her fears, face the ghosts of her past, and slowly reclaim herself was both heart-wrenching and empowering. Every moment inside her head made me feel like I was right there with her, crying, laughing, and cheering her on. She is raw, she is real, and she is utterly unforgettable.
The road trip setting was nothing short of magical. Every mile brought them closer, not just physically but emotionally, as secrets were shared, tensions flared, and laughter rang out across highways and quiet towns. The small, intimate moments, quiet conversations, touches that linger, glances that speak volumes, made the story feel alive. The journey wasn’t just about reaching a destination. It was about discovering themselves and each other in the most beautiful, heart-breaking, and exhilarating way possible.
This book made me feel everything, heartbreak, longing, frustration, hope, love. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made my chest ache with pure emotion. Elizabeth O’Roark’s writing is breathtaking. She has this rare, magical ability to make you live the story, not just read it. Her words make you feel the characters’ joy, pain, desire, and hope as if they were your own.
My Favorite Fake Romance isn’t just a romance. It’s a masterpiece of emotion, a rollercoaster of the heart, a story that grabs you by the soul and doesn’t let go. It’s about love, obsession, healing, second chances, and finding yourself amid the chaos of life. Every word, every page, every heartbeat made me fall harder and harder. This is a book I will treasure forever, a story that has left an indelible mark on my heart. Easton and Elijah aren’t just characters, they are a part of me now, and I will never forget them.
I don’t even have words to describe how much this book consumed me. From the very first page, I was completely lost in Easton and Elijah’s world. The chemistry between them isn’t just intense. It’s absolutely magnetic, shocking, and utterly addictive. Every glance, every touch, every witty remark made my heart skip a beat. The banter between them had me laughing, swooning, and tearing up all at the same time. Their personalities collide, spark, and eventually harmonize in a way that feels so natural, so inevitable, that it’s impossible not to fall in love alongside them.
Elijah, where do I even begin? He is the ultimate book boyfriend, the kind of character who makes your heart ache and melt simultaneously. His protectiveness, his obsession with Easton, the way he’s completely devoted to her in ways both big and small. I swear, I have never swooned so hard over a fictional character. He is everything you dream of in a hero, passionate, fierce, tender, and heartbreakingly real.
And Easton, oh, my heart. She has become one of my favorite characters of all time. The depth of her thoughts, her strength, her vulnerability, it all hit me so hard. Watching her confront her fears, face the ghosts of her past, and slowly reclaim herself was both heart-wrenching and empowering. Every moment inside her head made me feel like I was right there with her, crying, laughing, and cheering her on. She is raw, she is real, and she is utterly unforgettable.
The road trip setting was nothing short of magical. Every mile brought them closer, not just physically but emotionally, as secrets were shared, tensions flared, and laughter rang out across highways and quiet towns. The small, intimate moments, quiet conversations, touches that linger, glances that speak volumes, made the story feel alive. The journey wasn’t just about reaching a destination. It was about discovering themselves and each other in the most beautiful, heart-breaking, and exhilarating way possible.
This book made me feel everything, heartbreak, longing, frustration, hope, love. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made my chest ache with pure emotion. Elizabeth O’Roark’s writing is breathtaking. She has this rare, magical ability to make you live the story, not just read it. Her words make you feel the characters’ joy, pain, desire, and hope as if they were your own.
My Favorite Fake Romance isn’t just a romance. It’s a masterpiece of emotion, a rollercoaster of the heart, a story that grabs you by the soul and doesn’t let go. It’s about love, obsession, healing, second chances, and finding yourself amid the chaos of life. Every word, every page, every heartbeat made me fall harder and harder. This is a book I will treasure forever, a story that has left an indelible mark on my heart. Easton and Elijah aren’t just characters, they are a part of me now, and I will never forget them.
December 12, 2025
#Review: *My Favorite Fake Romance* - Elizabeth O'Roark - ARC [18+]
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
You know that feeling when you're all happy and giddy expecting to be proposed? Well, all that goes down the drain for Easton. Why? Because she was pretty sure her boyfriend, Thomas, will pop the question. Instead he came with huge blow to her heart and self-esteem, delivering the opposite news, wanting in fact to break up with her. It was a bit confusing and that made Easton do something a bit reckless. When she went back to Oak Bluff, she saw again that someone who was still playing with her heart. And that was Elijah. From a stupid thought of making her ex boyfriend jealous, by fake dating Elijah, something else has clicked in Easton's mind and that might just change everything in her life and in her perceptions.
Easton was often contradicting herself, not knowing what she really wanted. That was a bit confusing for me, but I loved the main idea of this sort of "love triangle" story. I liked seeing her rediscover herself, to see outside that toxic relationship, which wasn't that great as she thought. Elijah was so patient and I loved how much he cared about Easton. Also, it was a bit funny to see him trying to be unaffected by everything Easton meant to him.
This was a nice, reflective read, one of rediscovery of your own persona. I really liked that slow burn from this book and that constant tension between our main characters. It was fun, emotional and inspiring.
As usual, many thanks goes to the amazing team of Valentine Pr and to Elizabeth for accepting me for this e-ARC.🥰
✨Tropes
#AlphaHero
#Angsty
#BestFriendsSibling
#BoyObsessed
#EnemiesToLovers
#FakeRelationship
#OnTheRoad
#SecondChance
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
You know that feeling when you're all happy and giddy expecting to be proposed? Well, all that goes down the drain for Easton. Why? Because she was pretty sure her boyfriend, Thomas, will pop the question. Instead he came with huge blow to her heart and self-esteem, delivering the opposite news, wanting in fact to break up with her. It was a bit confusing and that made Easton do something a bit reckless. When she went back to Oak Bluff, she saw again that someone who was still playing with her heart. And that was Elijah. From a stupid thought of making her ex boyfriend jealous, by fake dating Elijah, something else has clicked in Easton's mind and that might just change everything in her life and in her perceptions.
Easton was often contradicting herself, not knowing what she really wanted. That was a bit confusing for me, but I loved the main idea of this sort of "love triangle" story. I liked seeing her rediscover herself, to see outside that toxic relationship, which wasn't that great as she thought. Elijah was so patient and I loved how much he cared about Easton. Also, it was a bit funny to see him trying to be unaffected by everything Easton meant to him.
This was a nice, reflective read, one of rediscovery of your own persona. I really liked that slow burn from this book and that constant tension between our main characters. It was fun, emotional and inspiring.
As usual, many thanks goes to the amazing team of Valentine Pr and to Elizabeth for accepting me for this e-ARC.🥰
✨Tropes
#AlphaHero
#Angsty
#BestFriendsSibling
#BoyObsessed
#EnemiesToLovers
#FakeRelationship
#OnTheRoad
#SecondChance
December 17, 2025
A book that has me absolutely cringing the last 20% really shouldn’t get three stars from me, but somehow I’m allowing it. But let’s all agree it’s probably a lower rating.
So Easton loves Elijah. Has always loved Elijah. Elijah who hooked up with her five years ago and then was like “Psych, actually, I just wanted in your pants and I don’t care for you that way.” But now Easton is with Thomas who was supposed to propose and then was like, “Psych, actually we are breaking up because I need some more adventure and I don’t care for you that way.” Lots of rejection for baby girl not even mentioning the 100lbs of daddy and mommy issues she has. (I’m also convinced the likelihood of her breaking out of her deadbeat family situation at a big fat zero, but for the sake of fiction I’ll believe that she’s at Harvard and working her way into academia. Sure, honey, that is completely plausible if you say so.)
I really enjoy EO’s writing style, I like her books, I like the pacing. They’re great reads for me, she’s an auto read author for me, this series has been awesome. But this book just did not hit the mark for me. So here’s Easton fresh off her break up who is convinced she’s gonna win her ex back, here’s Elijah who is convinced he can never be with Easton because of secret reasons (OF COURSE SECRET) but also they need to go on a road trip together because of more reasons. Honestly, the trip reasons don’t matter, I don’t care about reasons and how they’re unbelievable because I’m so dang curious how Easton who is so mad at Elijah and hung up on her ex is gonna make this crazy swing in a matter of a few days.
Well. Let’s just say I was less than impressed for how everything played out. Credit where credit is due, I do enjoy EO’s writing and the time these characters spend together and the emotional intimacy and conversations that are had. But I just didn’t enjoy this story. Second chance is hard and Elijah…he sucked lol. There are so many infuriating moments with that man.
So why three stars?! I guess cause I like Elizabeth O Roark and even though it was less than stellar, it was a decent read.
So Easton loves Elijah. Has always loved Elijah. Elijah who hooked up with her five years ago and then was like “Psych, actually, I just wanted in your pants and I don’t care for you that way.” But now Easton is with Thomas who was supposed to propose and then was like, “Psych, actually we are breaking up because I need some more adventure and I don’t care for you that way.” Lots of rejection for baby girl not even mentioning the 100lbs of daddy and mommy issues she has. (I’m also convinced the likelihood of her breaking out of her deadbeat family situation at a big fat zero, but for the sake of fiction I’ll believe that she’s at Harvard and working her way into academia. Sure, honey, that is completely plausible if you say so.)
I really enjoy EO’s writing style, I like her books, I like the pacing. They’re great reads for me, she’s an auto read author for me, this series has been awesome. But this book just did not hit the mark for me. So here’s Easton fresh off her break up who is convinced she’s gonna win her ex back, here’s Elijah who is convinced he can never be with Easton because of secret reasons (OF COURSE SECRET) but also they need to go on a road trip together because of more reasons. Honestly, the trip reasons don’t matter, I don’t care about reasons and how they’re unbelievable because I’m so dang curious how Easton who is so mad at Elijah and hung up on her ex is gonna make this crazy swing in a matter of a few days.
Well. Let’s just say I was less than impressed for how everything played out. Credit where credit is due, I do enjoy EO’s writing and the time these characters spend together and the emotional intimacy and conversations that are had. But I just didn’t enjoy this story. Second chance is hard and Elijah…he sucked lol. There are so many infuriating moments with that man.
So why three stars?! I guess cause I like Elizabeth O Roark and even though it was less than stellar, it was a decent read.
December 26, 2025
3.5 Stars
Quick Opinion: I completely forgot to write this review with traveling and the holidays distracting me, so please take what I say with a grain of salt, especially because I've read 2 books since this one 🤦🏻♀️ I've enjoyed Ms. O'Roark's voice in previous works that I've read and this wasn't any different. I enjoyed the banter and quirky side characters. I also enjoyed the mystery of their past, for a while at least. It did get a little old that we didn't really know what had transpired between them in the past until pretty far into this book. We just knew that he hurt her and suspected that he played martyr for her too, just didn't know the extent or details. I felt bad for her but I think I expected a little more angst tbh. The ending was also a bit of a letdown and I would call it a HFN ending , but only because I'm greedy and wanted more.
Quick Opinion: I completely forgot to write this review with traveling and the holidays distracting me, so please take what I say with a grain of salt, especially because I've read 2 books since this one 🤦🏻♀️ I've enjoyed Ms. O'Roark's voice in previous works that I've read and this wasn't any different. I enjoyed the banter and quirky side characters. I also enjoyed the mystery of their past, for a while at least. It did get a little old that we didn't really know what had transpired between them in the past until pretty far into this book. We just knew that he hurt her and suspected that he played martyr for her too, just didn't know the extent or details. I felt bad for her but I think I expected a little more angst tbh. The ending was also a bit of a letdown and I would call it a HFN ending , but only because I'm greedy and wanted more.
January 5, 2026
4 ⭐️'s
I enjoyed Elijah and Easton’s story but the build up was a bit long. Also, Elijah’s reasonings? Eh, I’m on the fence about that.
I did love what Easton’s Dad did though. That was a lot for her to go through.
But Wow…I really liked Kelsey and Hawk’s story. Do they have a book out? I couldn’t find anything.
I enjoyed Elijah and Easton’s story but the build up was a bit long. Also, Elijah’s reasonings? Eh, I’m on the fence about that.
I did love what Easton’s Dad did though. That was a lot for her to go through.
But Wow…I really liked Kelsey and Hawk’s story. Do they have a book out? I couldn’t find anything.
December 13, 2025
normally i like all her book no i love them and was waiting excitedly for the release . But this is so beyond boring and disappointing.
No chemistry, no connection, dumb reason to stay away from each other.
I never write reviews but just had to come and spill cuz i’m SOO SAD ABT THIS
No chemistry, no connection, dumb reason to stay away from each other.
I never write reviews but just had to come and spill cuz i’m SOO SAD ABT THIS
January 25, 2026
“Even when we’re arguing, being around Elijah is like sinking into a warm bath. It seems easy, comfortable.” —Easton Walsh
“I’d waited so long, too goddamn long, for Easton. I’d wanted her before I’d even realized that was what I felt.” —Elijah Cabot
4.45🏖️
smirking gasping wheezing screaming crying throwing up
WELL DAMN… Is it possible to hate a book's storyline but still love the overall journey and enjoy the whole read? Yes. Yes, it is. Because that's exactly what happened to me here. Even if this one feels a bit like a filler(?) since the characters from the first two books are nowhere to be seen or even mentioned. It instantly my favorite installment of The Favorite (pun fully intended). Not a 4.5 stars, more like a 4.45, but I'm rounding it up to 5 anyway duh.
My Favorite Fake Romance blends (sort of) fake‑dating chaos with second‑chance angst, delivering a road‑trip romance that's equal parts frustrating and magnetic. Easton heads to her best friend's wedding expecting a ring and a partner but instead finds herself teaming up with Elijah, her old flame and her best friend's older brother, to make her ex jealous. Their deal was pretend to be together while driving across states to bring his grandmother to the wedding. What starts as a scheme quickly turns into sparks, banter, and unresolved history resurfacing, with a meddling grandma determined to push them toward the truth.
The chemistry between Easton and Elijah is undeniably intense, witty, and addictive. Their banter swings from laugh‑out‑loud moments to blazing tension, and the adventure-ish road trip setting that amplifies every glance and lingering touch. Elijah shines as the protective, passionate mmc, though his refusal to consider long‑distance and his tendency deny it make him maddening at times. Easton, meanwhile, is raw and vulnerable, slowly reclaiming her strength and realizing that chasing her ex's jealousy isn't worth her happiness. Their conflict isn't a classic third‑breakup since they're never officially together, more like messy separations whenever anger flares. Elijah's jealousy often feels misplaced, yet the reveal about Easton's father delivers a heartbreaking punch that grounds the story in deeper emotion. The conclusion isn't the kind of perfect one, but it carries a heartwarming sense of growth with Elijah finally stepping up, Easton letting go of old priorities, and both choosing each other despite the chaos🧡
The epilogue leans more amusing than grand with Elijah's proposal derailed when his sister Kelsey (who also happens to be Easton's best friend) goes into labor, flattening the moment into comedy. Yet the final scene, with Elijah determined to re‑propose for the next year and Easton ready to accept under any circumstance—even beside a hospital elevator—captures their love in a raw, imperfect, and an endearing way. Alongside this, the side plot with Easton's granma—Carol—adds bite and humor, her sharp words pushing both leads to face reality. And while the storyline can feel messy and exasperating, Elizabeth O'Roark's writing makes the journey feel alive. Funny, heartbreaking, and deeply emotional, transforming a frustrating setup into a romance that's ultimately worth the ride💛
Huge props to James Cassidy and Kasi Hollowell for narrating this book. Their duet style carried both tenderness and strength, layering emotion into every scene. As this was my first time hearing them together, I'm genuinely rooting for more collaborations in the future.
Overall, this series was enjoyable despite the frustrating bumps along the way to each couple's hard‑won happiness, and I regret nothing. Forbidden romance is a tricky trope, but Elizabeth O'Roark manage to weave it into something meaningful and else, also I realize the final book is nothing a forbidden-lie which made me love it even more(?) Anywaysss, each couple had their own taste of medicine and their narratives carried raw emotion, messy love, and healing that lingered even after the conclusion. If you're looking for a challenging trope wrapped in summerlike and adventurous vibes, start this series ASAP, or I'll be side eyeing you from afar🫵🏻😏🤸🏻♀️💥
December 21, 2025
We meet Elijah in book 2 and I was intrigued enough to want to read his story. Unfortunately, it didn’t work for me. All the heartache and pain these two inflicted on each other could have easily been avoided with a few honest conversations. Seeing these two circle each other and not address the elephant in the room over and over again made the book repetitive and too long. I found both MC’s frustrating and almost DNF’ed because of how annoying Easton was. She had this huge chip on her shoulder, and spent so much energy and time trying to prove people wrong. As much as I can understand that desire and fire, the other part of me was screaming - YOU HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE! Forget them and move on! Also, for something that influenced the characters so much, the entire side plot with Easton’s family was never fully explored/addressed. The twist at the end didn’t change my opinion of her father or make up for all the abuse and trauma she endured.
This is my least favorite from the series. I’m not sure if there are more books planned after this, but this is not how I wanted it to end.
CW: alcoholic parent, death of parent and sibling, grief, physically and emotionally abusive family members, estrangement from family, multiple sclerosis, health concerns for a secondary characters
This is my least favorite from the series. I’m not sure if there are more books planned after this, but this is not how I wanted it to end.
CW: alcoholic parent, death of parent and sibling, grief, physically and emotionally abusive family members, estrangement from family, multiple sclerosis, health concerns for a secondary characters
December 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
What a bittersweet end to an incredible era, and by far the most emotional in the Favorites series, I just wanted to give Easton the biggest hug and shake Elijah at times 😭 there's a very logical reason as to why this is called The Favorites series, because they are all my favourites!
I love, love me an angsty, tension fuelled romance and make it a second chance, with a heavy dose of some forced proximity, because they’re on a road trip with a meddling grandma in the back, and let me tell you, I ATE this upp!! My man Elijah didn’t even hesitate when it came to making Easton’s ex jealous, and fake dating her, all while secretly pining and obsessing her. They were both secretly pining for each other, and I loved it! 😍
As always with Elizabeth's writing, the characters had great chemistry and the best banter; Elijah was the protective, golden retriever man, to the black cat vibes that Easton had, while trying to guard her heart from the man who once broke her heart. It was incredibly sad what Easton had been through, but I loved the journey Easton went on, and realising how she had been settling with her ex, and changed because of it, too. The road trip and being around Elijah brought out the happier, more carefree side of her that Elijah fell in love with all those years ago.
Easton and Elijah’s journey was beautifully raw, and watching them find their way back to each other was the most rewarding ending. Elizabeth has truly outdone herself with this series, crafting stories that are as emotional as they are unforgettable. Every book has been such an emotional rollercoaster, filled with swoon-worthy moments, heartache, healing, and characters that I just can’t help but root for.
This was my last ARC read of 2025, and now my 2026 ARCs are starting to haunt me in my dreams, haha. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to wrap up the year. I’m so grateful and thankful to Valentine PR for all the ARCs they’ve blessed me with, especially this series. Endless forehead kisses to Elizabeth and the whole Valentine PR team 💖💖
Pre-read August 2025: HELLO, I FREAKING CALLED IT!!! From that one scene where Elijah’s smile faded at the mention of Easton, I knew there was something there. Fake dating vibes, best friend’s older brother?! I’m so freaking excited!
What a bittersweet end to an incredible era, and by far the most emotional in the Favorites series, I just wanted to give Easton the biggest hug and shake Elijah at times 😭 there's a very logical reason as to why this is called The Favorites series, because they are all my favourites!
I love, love me an angsty, tension fuelled romance and make it a second chance, with a heavy dose of some forced proximity, because they’re on a road trip with a meddling grandma in the back, and let me tell you, I ATE this upp!! My man Elijah didn’t even hesitate when it came to making Easton’s ex jealous, and fake dating her, all while secretly pining and obsessing her. They were both secretly pining for each other, and I loved it! 😍
As always with Elizabeth's writing, the characters had great chemistry and the best banter; Elijah was the protective, golden retriever man, to the black cat vibes that Easton had, while trying to guard her heart from the man who once broke her heart. It was incredibly sad what Easton had been through, but I loved the journey Easton went on, and realising how she had been settling with her ex, and changed because of it, too. The road trip and being around Elijah brought out the happier, more carefree side of her that Elijah fell in love with all those years ago.
Easton and Elijah’s journey was beautifully raw, and watching them find their way back to each other was the most rewarding ending. Elizabeth has truly outdone herself with this series, crafting stories that are as emotional as they are unforgettable. Every book has been such an emotional rollercoaster, filled with swoon-worthy moments, heartache, healing, and characters that I just can’t help but root for.
This was my last ARC read of 2025, and now my 2026 ARCs are starting to haunt me in my dreams, haha. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to wrap up the year. I’m so grateful and thankful to Valentine PR for all the ARCs they’ve blessed me with, especially this series. Endless forehead kisses to Elizabeth and the whole Valentine PR team 💖💖
Pre-read August 2025: HELLO, I FREAKING CALLED IT!!! From that one scene where Elijah’s smile faded at the mention of Easton, I knew there was something there. Fake dating vibes, best friend’s older brother?! I’m so freaking excited!
December 12, 2025
betty was the MVP of this book. i kept getting easton and elijah's names confused. too many e's and a's.
December 12, 2025
5/5 ⭐️, 2/5 🌶️, 1.2/5 💧
👙 Best Friend’s Brother
👙 Fake Dating
👙 Second Chance Romance
👙 Complicated Family Dynamics
👙 Dual POV
This book was so good! I jumped into it not having read the previous books in the series, but it did not impact me at all as it was a true standalone.
I absolutely related with the FMC and the humor was just my type. I found it hilarious, balanced with the perfect amount of tension, spice, and emotional depth and the best side characters. The growth of the characters in the course of the book was also exceptionally done.
It was perfectly paced, not too long as it is a romance after all, but still gave me all the sinking gut wrenching emotional feels, laughs, swoons and entertainment.
Only thing I would change is the cover. Give it a cute illustrated cover and I’m buying it as a shelf trophy.
If you’re looking for a hilarious romcom balanced with just the right amount of drama and tension along with everything else mentioned in this review, please go read this book.
Thanks to Valentine PR for the arc!
👙 Best Friend’s Brother
👙 Fake Dating
👙 Second Chance Romance
👙 Complicated Family Dynamics
👙 Dual POV
This book was so good! I jumped into it not having read the previous books in the series, but it did not impact me at all as it was a true standalone.
I absolutely related with the FMC and the humor was just my type. I found it hilarious, balanced with the perfect amount of tension, spice, and emotional depth and the best side characters. The growth of the characters in the course of the book was also exceptionally done.
It was perfectly paced, not too long as it is a romance after all, but still gave me all the sinking gut wrenching emotional feels, laughs, swoons and entertainment.
Only thing I would change is the cover. Give it a cute illustrated cover and I’m buying it as a shelf trophy.
If you’re looking for a hilarious romcom balanced with just the right amount of drama and tension along with everything else mentioned in this review, please go read this book.
Thanks to Valentine PR for the arc!
January 3, 2026
Listen, I feel like I say this every time, but THIS is my favorite Elizabeth book. I couldn't put it down! If I'm a sucker for anything, it's 2nd chance with secretish pining. Elijah and Easton were everything I could have hoped for and I was so excited when we learned that Elijah was getting his own book!
What You'll Get:
- Best friends brother
- Second Chance
- Secret pining
- Fake dating
I absolutely ate this book up and am so sad it's over!
What You'll Get:
- Best friends brother
- Second Chance
- Secret pining
- Fake dating
I absolutely ate this book up and am so sad it's over!
December 21, 2025
Two fruit flies deserve a romance more than this couple
🤡🧐
the constant miscommunication and lack of any decent chemistry is what killed the book for me.
plus, it sports the hated "hero decides what's best for the heroine, without consulting her and breaks her heart in the process" trope 🤬
not to mention the characters, who are so shitty and behave like assholes or criminals, but are magically forgiven and suffer a personality transplant for the sake of the happy end.
the heroine was pathetic for loving the hero so long and taking him back without a second thought after everything 😩
the constant miscommunication and lack of any decent chemistry is what killed the book for me.
plus, it sports the hated "hero decides what's best for the heroine, without consulting her and breaks her heart in the process" trope 🤬
not to mention the characters, who are so shitty and behave like assholes or criminals, but are magically forgiven and suffer a personality transplant for the sake of the happy end.
the heroine was pathetic for loving the hero so long and taking him back without a second thought after everything 😩
December 20, 2025
The best friend’s older brother plus a forced proximity road trip combo was just the best in this one! I was hooked from the start and knew Easton and Elijah were meant to be. There was so much to love, but my favorite part was the meddling grandmas. They brought the best humor to the entire situation and knew exactly how to push Easton and Elijah into even more forced proximity.
Read if you like:
-second chances
-fake dating
-road trip
-meddling grandmas
-forced proximity
Read if you like:
-second chances
-fake dating
-road trip
-meddling grandmas
-forced proximity
December 6, 2025
My Favorite Fake Romance is undoubtedly the most emotional entry to The Favorites series. A series I so dearly love. This particular story brought out the heartbreak, the swoons, and beauty of second chances.
Easton and Elijah, gosh the angst y'all put me through, but I wouldn't have it any other way!
I will try to be as vague as possible, but along the way there is a certain revelation that reshapes the past narrative shared by these two. And let me tell you, the angst that explodes will have your heart crying as you addictively turn page after page to see what will happen next! And that's one of many ways I'd describe both book and romance: addictive. Ughhh! I just loved these two so much. I adore how endlessly protective Elijah is of Easton, even when he postures as indifferent, his blood boils for the girl he is secretly desperate to protect from all harm. Then there's Easton nursing years-old hurt, along with wounded pride. Left by her almost-fiancé only to be forced to go on a road trip with the true heartbreak of her life, Elijah. And to make it worse, his grandma tags along (and I'm sorry, regardless of late game actions, she was foul! And it truly irritated me how she mistreated Easton). God, I just wanted to wrap Easton in bubble wrap to protect her from all cruelty and abuse and insult. Luckily, Elijah is around to do just that for her. Probably even better than I ever could!
When not trading jabs and biting banter, Easton and Elijah slowly but with increasing tempo revisit the wounds imprinted by the past and even present. They may have kept their distance, but their bodies remain the dance. They are still connected emotionally. They know each other well, time did nothing to change that. It's clear they're perfect for each other, except for that pesky past full of hurt. Much angst revolves around this and I ate it upppp, even when it gave me heartburn I still thirsted for more! This is such an incredibly engaging and investing journey. My heart just bled for Easton above all. She has an abusive upbringing, including an abusive father, but it's scene shared with him that becomes one of most emotionally charged moments. I wish I could discuss it more, but I'll rein in any spoilers. Just have the tissues near by!
The love story told here is so completely earned. There are obstacles that must be overcomes, secrets that must be uncovered, and there is trust in allowing those we love a voice in the decisions that involve that. That sometimes, as much as we yearn to protect, we need to learn to let go. So many lessons well learned, and so much love well earned. It's a tremendous journey.
I adored it all, so wholly. If I have any qualms is the fact the book ends without an epilogue, and I love me a good epilogue! Maybe it'll be a bonus chapter upon release, fingers crossed!
Thank you to Valentine PR for this gorgeous complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
Easton and Elijah, gosh the angst y'all put me through, but I wouldn't have it any other way!
I will try to be as vague as possible, but along the way there is a certain revelation that reshapes the past narrative shared by these two. And let me tell you, the angst that explodes will have your heart crying as you addictively turn page after page to see what will happen next! And that's one of many ways I'd describe both book and romance: addictive. Ughhh! I just loved these two so much. I adore how endlessly protective Elijah is of Easton, even when he postures as indifferent, his blood boils for the girl he is secretly desperate to protect from all harm. Then there's Easton nursing years-old hurt, along with wounded pride. Left by her almost-fiancé only to be forced to go on a road trip with the true heartbreak of her life, Elijah. And to make it worse, his grandma tags along (and I'm sorry, regardless of late game actions, she was foul! And it truly irritated me how she mistreated Easton). God, I just wanted to wrap Easton in bubble wrap to protect her from all cruelty and abuse and insult. Luckily, Elijah is around to do just that for her. Probably even better than I ever could!
When not trading jabs and biting banter, Easton and Elijah slowly but with increasing tempo revisit the wounds imprinted by the past and even present. They may have kept their distance, but their bodies remain the dance. They are still connected emotionally. They know each other well, time did nothing to change that. It's clear they're perfect for each other, except for that pesky past full of hurt. Much angst revolves around this and I ate it upppp, even when it gave me heartburn I still thirsted for more! This is such an incredibly engaging and investing journey. My heart just bled for Easton above all. She has an abusive upbringing, including an abusive father, but it's scene shared with him that becomes one of most emotionally charged moments. I wish I could discuss it more, but I'll rein in any spoilers. Just have the tissues near by!
The love story told here is so completely earned. There are obstacles that must be overcomes, secrets that must be uncovered, and there is trust in allowing those we love a voice in the decisions that involve that. That sometimes, as much as we yearn to protect, we need to learn to let go. So many lessons well learned, and so much love well earned. It's a tremendous journey.
I adored it all, so wholly. If I have any qualms is the fact the book ends without an epilogue, and I love me a good epilogue! Maybe it'll be a bonus chapter upon release, fingers crossed!
Thank you to Valentine PR for this gorgeous complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
January 16, 2026
This story follows Easton, who was meant to attend her best friend’s wedding with a man by her side, a ring on her finger, and a future she believed in. But everything comes crashing down when he doesn’t propose and instead breaks things off. Now questioning everything, the last person she expects to help make her ex jealous is Elijah her best friend’s older brother and longtime crush.
My first Elizabeth book, and it definitely won’t be my last. I cannot believe I waited this long to read something by her. I also highly recommend the audiobook. James and Kasi did a brilliant job bringing the characters to life.
Starting with the storyline it was gritty, raw, and a complete rollercoaster of emotions everything I love in romance. Easton has been through so much, and after her recent breakup, she’s someone who changed who she was to fit into her ex’s world. She becomes self conscious about her choices and how she’s perceived following the split. When Elijah enters the picture, he calls out those changes and helps her rediscover who she used to be. I loved this aspect of the story there were so many layers to it.
Her relationship with her father and family felt quite relatable to what I grew up around, but you really see Easton’s strength and how much she’s overcome to get where she is now. I loved watching the banter, chemistry and tension between Easton and Elijah unfold.
I do want to mention the whiplash I felt between Easton and Elijah it was really drawn out to the end, making it feel like a massive slow burn. I also struggled a little with Elijah’s unhinged grandma. That said, there was always something happening, which is why I enjoyed. Im looking forward to reading more of Elizabeth’s work in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 9hrs 6mins
Narrators: James Cassidy and Kasi Hollowell - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
POV: First Person Dual
Series or Standalone: Book Three In The Favorites Series
Tropes or Themes: Enemies To Lovers, Best Friends Older Brother, Second Chance, Fake Dating, Slow Burn, Forced Proximity, Road Trip, Nightmares, Chemistry, Tension, Banter, Jealousy, Family Drama, Self Doubt, Self Conscious, Verbal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Alcoholic, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Taken Bare, Beach Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
My first Elizabeth book, and it definitely won’t be my last. I cannot believe I waited this long to read something by her. I also highly recommend the audiobook. James and Kasi did a brilliant job bringing the characters to life.
Starting with the storyline it was gritty, raw, and a complete rollercoaster of emotions everything I love in romance. Easton has been through so much, and after her recent breakup, she’s someone who changed who she was to fit into her ex’s world. She becomes self conscious about her choices and how she’s perceived following the split. When Elijah enters the picture, he calls out those changes and helps her rediscover who she used to be. I loved this aspect of the story there were so many layers to it.
Her relationship with her father and family felt quite relatable to what I grew up around, but you really see Easton’s strength and how much she’s overcome to get where she is now. I loved watching the banter, chemistry and tension between Easton and Elijah unfold.
I do want to mention the whiplash I felt between Easton and Elijah it was really drawn out to the end, making it feel like a massive slow burn. I also struggled a little with Elijah’s unhinged grandma. That said, there was always something happening, which is why I enjoyed. Im looking forward to reading more of Elizabeth’s work in the future.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 9hrs 6mins
Narrators: James Cassidy and Kasi Hollowell - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
POV: First Person Dual
Series or Standalone: Book Three In The Favorites Series
Tropes or Themes: Enemies To Lovers, Best Friends Older Brother, Second Chance, Fake Dating, Slow Burn, Forced Proximity, Road Trip, Nightmares, Chemistry, Tension, Banter, Jealousy, Family Drama, Self Doubt, Self Conscious, Verbal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Alcoholic, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Taken Bare, Beach Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
December 19, 2025
Elizabeth never, ever, misses.
This couple >>>
This book >>>
This series >>>
I feel very lucky to be living in the same time as Elizabeth O’Roark, because having the chance to experience the beauty of her writing feels like one of the most rewarding experiences in life.
I’m also very greedy when it comes to her books, because the minute I finish one, I immediately want another. Call it my own kind of addiction.
This book is yet another proof that Elizabeth can do no wrong. It was everything I wanted and needed, and Elijah is yet another MMC written by Elizabeth that I added to my never-ending book boyfriends list.
Falling for Elijah was as easy as existing. His sweet moments had me melting, and his possessive moments made me weak in the knees. 🫠 This man is protective and kind, and genuinely good. Not loving him is impossible.
Easton is a character worth of admiration. She didn’t have an easy childhood, and life wasn’t really kind to her, and perhaps because of all that she had a hard time recognising the amazing person she is, the worth she has, and things she deserves. Her HEA was something I was rooting for, but more than that, I was just rooting for *her*. Because she deserved so much more than the reality she was living in.
The tension and the banter between Easton and Elijah are absolute *chef’s kiss*. I couldn’t get enough of them! It’s not just about the physical aspect, but just them; whenever they interacted I felt like my day was made.
This book and these characters’ story will take you on a profound journey of emotions, heartbreak, sadness, but also hope, self-worth, strength, and love.
My time with them may have been short (because good luck trying to prolong your reading time when you’re reading Elizabeth’s books), but it definitely left its lasting mark. I miss them already. And I love them deeply.
This couple >>>
This book >>>
This series >>>
I feel very lucky to be living in the same time as Elizabeth O’Roark, because having the chance to experience the beauty of her writing feels like one of the most rewarding experiences in life.
I’m also very greedy when it comes to her books, because the minute I finish one, I immediately want another. Call it my own kind of addiction.
This book is yet another proof that Elizabeth can do no wrong. It was everything I wanted and needed, and Elijah is yet another MMC written by Elizabeth that I added to my never-ending book boyfriends list.
Falling for Elijah was as easy as existing. His sweet moments had me melting, and his possessive moments made me weak in the knees. 🫠 This man is protective and kind, and genuinely good. Not loving him is impossible.
Easton is a character worth of admiration. She didn’t have an easy childhood, and life wasn’t really kind to her, and perhaps because of all that she had a hard time recognising the amazing person she is, the worth she has, and things she deserves. Her HEA was something I was rooting for, but more than that, I was just rooting for *her*. Because she deserved so much more than the reality she was living in.
The tension and the banter between Easton and Elijah are absolute *chef’s kiss*. I couldn’t get enough of them! It’s not just about the physical aspect, but just them; whenever they interacted I felt like my day was made.
This book and these characters’ story will take you on a profound journey of emotions, heartbreak, sadness, but also hope, self-worth, strength, and love.
My time with them may have been short (because good luck trying to prolong your reading time when you’re reading Elizabeth’s books), but it definitely left its lasting mark. I miss them already. And I love them deeply.
Read
December 19, 2025I waited a year for this one. Not because I found Elijah interesting. I didn’t. But because this author was writing it.
I’m very disappointed.
There was no joy in it. No true angst.
At the end I just thought they were both terrible people and probably deserved each other.
Something about both characters was off. I couldn’t connect to either of them.
They were neither good. Not bad.
Their struggles were just somehow sordid and I felt nothing much.
The hero was frankly horrible. Stupid. Crude. Unintelligent.
She’s written another book with a similar hero who was terribly sweet.
Thomas has all my sympathies. At least he rang true as a character.
The major flaw in this book is that the hero is so dislikable. In every possible way.
He was inept. He got everything so wrong. I guess a 22 year old or even 25 year old would mess up.
But he just kept on and on being stupid for no rhyme or reason.
The reason they were separate from each other seemed trite.
I skipped the ending because I wasn’t invested in any of them. Skimmed. Read epilogue.
I waited for the next book from this author. And she gave me this.
I’m very disappointed.
There was no joy in it. No true angst.
At the end I just thought they were both terrible people and probably deserved each other.
Something about both characters was off. I couldn’t connect to either of them.
They were neither good. Not bad.
Their struggles were just somehow sordid and I felt nothing much.
The hero was frankly horrible. Stupid. Crude. Unintelligent.
She’s written another book with a similar hero who was terribly sweet.
Thomas has all my sympathies. At least he rang true as a character.
The major flaw in this book is that the hero is so dislikable. In every possible way.
He was inept. He got everything so wrong. I guess a 22 year old or even 25 year old would mess up.
But he just kept on and on being stupid for no rhyme or reason.
The reason they were separate from each other seemed trite.
I skipped the ending because I wasn’t invested in any of them. Skimmed. Read epilogue.
I waited for the next book from this author. And she gave me this.
November 27, 2025
4⭐️ but I don’t know where’s the fun other people saw in this book, for me it was mostly sad and almost constant heartbreak.
I loved the first two books in this series, they were fun and funny, but this one, although still very much a 4 star read, was sad and emotionally confusing for me at some point.
In a way it’s “typical” second chance, “it’s always been you” for both sides, but he broke her heart a million years ago, ofc with a *valid* reason, and now they are forced on a road trip together. The cause for the forced road trip is a stretch, but again it’s in a typical way for this kind of trope and just on the right side of the edge not to be too ridiculous.
But then: Easton’s (FMC) family situation is next level horrible. Her almost finance ex boyfriend is so wrong for her but she still wants to get back with him?! While I do get why she wanted to get back with him, her reasoning made sense for her character, it made me angry nevertheless.
Let’s not stop there: Kelsey the best friend - questionable if she’s truly a best friend. How Kelsey and Elijah’s mother ghosted Easton? Although justified by the end, I’m still skeptical if it had to be dealt with in such a way.
Oh and Elijah. I couldn’t take how he broke Easton’s heart in the past and was breaking it all over again. He took care of her and did these nice, protective gestures and all, but my heart was truly breaking with Easton’s for majority of this book. Both because of her almost-fiancée-ex and Elijah, too.
This book mostly made me angry and heartbroken.
Oh, I forgot the grandma. Truly terrible character, too. Her 5 seconds of “nice” behavior did not change my mind about her.
Ok, I will try to stop here. This seems like a rant cause there were many things that made me confused or angry or hurting together with the characters, but with all that said the writing is good and all the characters are well characterized and acting in a way that makes it logical for them. It all does make sense, I was just simply not agreeing/angry/hurt with their actions or way of thinking.
The big reveal (which I really don’t think was enough of a reason to break Easton’s heart this bad, by multiple people and multiple times) happens at 90% or maybe even 95% so pretty far in the book. I have my doubts if these two would work as a couple.
Anyway, still a 4 star rating from me and I do recommend this book!!! Just be prepared. I thought it will be more fun and cutesy, not sad and heartbreaking.
Also, it’s part of the series, and I’ve read books 1-2, but I see no connection between books 1 and 2 (both 5 star reads for me!) and this one, so you can totally read this (book 3) out of order. TBH I’m not sure why it’s a series, but maybe I missed something important? 😅
Ok, yea, I’m not done yet.
There was one spicy scene that gave me an ick (she asked him to slow down and he didn’t and the vibes of this whole encounter were a bit too red light-y)
They do have nice banter and the dialogues with grandma were funny but made me angry at the same time cause I couldn’t get over how horrible the grandma was, but yes at the same time the dialogues were source of funny moments. Back to our main couple banter: I was a bit confused cause their banter was angry-type one minute and flirty the other. Somehow it did make sense with their characterization but I think I just wasn’t a fan.
I think maybe the FMC was just not strong enough for my standards or sth along the lines. She loved Elijah “too” much and chose him over herself way too much to my liking.
Omg as always my review turned out to be too long and probably no one will get to the end of it 😅
ANYWAY: 4 STARS, I DO RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
(ARC read through Valentine PR 🩷)
I loved the first two books in this series, they were fun and funny, but this one, although still very much a 4 star read, was sad and emotionally confusing for me at some point.
In a way it’s “typical” second chance, “it’s always been you” for both sides, but he broke her heart a million years ago, ofc with a *valid* reason, and now they are forced on a road trip together. The cause for the forced road trip is a stretch, but again it’s in a typical way for this kind of trope and just on the right side of the edge not to be too ridiculous.
But then: Easton’s (FMC) family situation is next level horrible. Her almost finance ex boyfriend is so wrong for her but she still wants to get back with him?! While I do get why she wanted to get back with him, her reasoning made sense for her character, it made me angry nevertheless.
Let’s not stop there: Kelsey the best friend - questionable if she’s truly a best friend. How Kelsey and Elijah’s mother ghosted Easton? Although justified by the end, I’m still skeptical if it had to be dealt with in such a way.
Oh and Elijah. I couldn’t take how he broke Easton’s heart in the past and was breaking it all over again. He took care of her and did these nice, protective gestures and all, but my heart was truly breaking with Easton’s for majority of this book. Both because of her almost-fiancée-ex and Elijah, too.
This book mostly made me angry and heartbroken.
Oh, I forgot the grandma. Truly terrible character, too. Her 5 seconds of “nice” behavior did not change my mind about her.
Ok, I will try to stop here. This seems like a rant cause there were many things that made me confused or angry or hurting together with the characters, but with all that said the writing is good and all the characters are well characterized and acting in a way that makes it logical for them. It all does make sense, I was just simply not agreeing/angry/hurt with their actions or way of thinking.
The big reveal (which I really don’t think was enough of a reason to break Easton’s heart this bad, by multiple people and multiple times) happens at 90% or maybe even 95% so pretty far in the book. I have my doubts if these two would work as a couple.
Anyway, still a 4 star rating from me and I do recommend this book!!! Just be prepared. I thought it will be more fun and cutesy, not sad and heartbreaking.
Also, it’s part of the series, and I’ve read books 1-2, but I see no connection between books 1 and 2 (both 5 star reads for me!) and this one, so you can totally read this (book 3) out of order. TBH I’m not sure why it’s a series, but maybe I missed something important? 😅
Ok, yea, I’m not done yet.
There was one spicy scene that gave me an ick (she asked him to slow down and he didn’t and the vibes of this whole encounter were a bit too red light-y)
They do have nice banter and the dialogues with grandma were funny but made me angry at the same time cause I couldn’t get over how horrible the grandma was, but yes at the same time the dialogues were source of funny moments. Back to our main couple banter: I was a bit confused cause their banter was angry-type one minute and flirty the other. Somehow it did make sense with their characterization but I think I just wasn’t a fan.
I think maybe the FMC was just not strong enough for my standards or sth along the lines. She loved Elijah “too” much and chose him over herself way too much to my liking.
Omg as always my review turned out to be too long and probably no one will get to the end of it 😅
ANYWAY: 4 STARS, I DO RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
(ARC read through Valentine PR 🩷)
December 11, 2025
This book was fun, emotional, and such a journey. I especially adored the road trip adventure through Florida and other states to get to their destination in New Orleans. Easton is such a complex character and I loved seeing her open up to finding herself again throughout the road trip. Elijah and Easton’s story is an emotional one filled with secrets, heartbreak, angst, and one hilarious middling grandma. Prepare to laugh and cry as you read about these two finding their way back to one another.
The audiobook is duet narrated by Kasi Hollowell and James Cassidy.
I loved their voices for the characters of Easton and Elijah. The banter was on point and just perfect.
“𝙄’𝙢 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“There hasn't been a time since you were sixteen years old that I haven't wanted you with every fiber of my being.”
The audiobook is duet narrated by Kasi Hollowell and James Cassidy.
I loved their voices for the characters of Easton and Elijah. The banter was on point and just perfect.
“𝙄’𝙢 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“There hasn't been a time since you were sixteen years old that I haven't wanted you with every fiber of my being.”
December 29, 2025
4.5 I love this author.
December 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐ Loved it but that ending was wayyyy to rushed.
December 11, 2025
The third book in the Favorites series and this one follows Easton and Elijah. It’s a second chance, fake dating romance and I ate this up.
This has classic Elizabeth O’Roark banter and tension, how she finds the perfect combination in her books is so impressive. It hits every single time.
I love Elijah, a little too much. He’s very protective, seems to have such a calming presence about him, but yet the way he looks and talks to Easton had me melting.
Easton had just come out of a relationship, which ended the night she was expecting to get engaged. Her life was thrown through a loop and she didn’t know what to do for the best. She’s a settler and a people pleaser, by nature, and doesn’t recognise what she deserves. Her childhood was very challenging and left a lasting impression on how she is. I felt a lot for Easton on her journey in this book, but I would have loved for her to have given up on winning her ex back a lot sooner. I wanted to shake her at times!
I can’t write a review for this and not mention Grandma and Betty. Perfect side characters, I laughed a lot at these two and how they were living the old woman stereotype of saying exactly what they think and meddling far too much.
I’ve absolutely loved this series. If Elizabeth O’Roark writes it, I’ll be reading it. She’s definitely a favourite author of mine and this series helps to cement that even further.
I’d thoroughly recommend everyone to pick this up!!
This has classic Elizabeth O’Roark banter and tension, how she finds the perfect combination in her books is so impressive. It hits every single time.
I love Elijah, a little too much. He’s very protective, seems to have such a calming presence about him, but yet the way he looks and talks to Easton had me melting.
Easton had just come out of a relationship, which ended the night she was expecting to get engaged. Her life was thrown through a loop and she didn’t know what to do for the best. She’s a settler and a people pleaser, by nature, and doesn’t recognise what she deserves. Her childhood was very challenging and left a lasting impression on how she is. I felt a lot for Easton on her journey in this book, but I would have loved for her to have given up on winning her ex back a lot sooner. I wanted to shake her at times!
I can’t write a review for this and not mention Grandma and Betty. Perfect side characters, I laughed a lot at these two and how they were living the old woman stereotype of saying exactly what they think and meddling far too much.
I’ve absolutely loved this series. If Elizabeth O’Roark writes it, I’ll be reading it. She’s definitely a favourite author of mine and this series helps to cement that even further.
I’d thoroughly recommend everyone to pick this up!!
December 3, 2025
4.5 stars
I love this author and her writing. I really enjoyed this book, too. It's almost a five-star read for me. I just couldn't get past the timeline. Two weeks ago, Easton was dumped by a man she thought she was going to marry, a man she spent two years with and a man she thought she wanted back. Her trip home for her best friend's wedding changes that when seeing Elijah. I get that he was "always the one" for her and then he broke her heart (and his own) and she never got over him. I wish we would have learned why he did what he did sooner in the story.
I loved Easton and Elijah's banter. Plus, Easton's snark with Elijah's grandmother was great. She held her own with that woman.
This is a very emotional, angsty, second chance romance and I definitely felt all of that. I am so glad that we have both of their POVs, to really feel everything.
Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love this author and her writing. I really enjoyed this book, too. It's almost a five-star read for me. I just couldn't get past the timeline. Two weeks ago, Easton was dumped by a man she thought she was going to marry, a man she spent two years with and a man she thought she wanted back. Her trip home for her best friend's wedding changes that when seeing Elijah. I get that he was "always the one" for her and then he broke her heart (and his own) and she never got over him. I wish we would have learned why he did what he did sooner in the story.
I loved Easton and Elijah's banter. Plus, Easton's snark with Elijah's grandmother was great. She held her own with that woman.
This is a very emotional, angsty, second chance romance and I definitely felt all of that. I am so glad that we have both of their POVs, to really feel everything.
Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 14, 2025
I loooooove O’Roark’s writing.
The tension 👏🏼 The best friend’s brother 👏🏼 The horrible, shitty ex 👏🏼 The spice 👏🏼
Elijah and Easton grew up together, they had one night of vulnerability right before she left for college and he ended up breaking her heart. Now, it’s his sister’s wedding week and the two are forced together all while Easton tries to make her ex jealous because she knows they’ll end up back together. (But really, she doesn’t love him. Of course not! She’s settling!)
This was such a quick read because I couldn’t put it down. I’m going cross eyed making a coffee so I can function when my baby wakes up from her nap. I always inhale O’Roark’s work and this one did NOT disappoint.
The tension 👏🏼 The best friend’s brother 👏🏼 The horrible, shitty ex 👏🏼 The spice 👏🏼
Elijah and Easton grew up together, they had one night of vulnerability right before she left for college and he ended up breaking her heart. Now, it’s his sister’s wedding week and the two are forced together all while Easton tries to make her ex jealous because she knows they’ll end up back together. (But really, she doesn’t love him. Of course not! She’s settling!)
This was such a quick read because I couldn’t put it down. I’m going cross eyed making a coffee so I can function when my baby wakes up from her nap. I always inhale O’Roark’s work and this one did NOT disappoint.
December 18, 2025
I loved Elijah in the last book and was so excited for his book. You’re supposed to like the main characters, but they were the most unlikable characters I’ve ever read about and Elijah seemed like a completely different person.
I hated how the whole book was a misunderstanding that they refused to talk about while constantly bringing it up. The MMC’s actions had major consequences for the FMC’s confidence and how she viewed relationships/her worth and the MMC did no groveling and at 80%+ was still telling her it wasn’t going to work between them until he finally changed his mind, told her the truth, and she instantly forgave him. 🙄
I don’t think a book has ever pissed me off more, but I kept going because I thought there HAD to be serious groveling or the best love confession of all time. Nope.
I hated how the whole book was a misunderstanding that they refused to talk about while constantly bringing it up. The MMC’s actions had major consequences for the FMC’s confidence and how she viewed relationships/her worth and the MMC did no groveling and at 80%+ was still telling her it wasn’t going to work between them until he finally changed his mind, told her the truth, and she instantly forgave him. 🙄
I don’t think a book has ever pissed me off more, but I kept going because I thought there HAD to be serious groveling or the best love confession of all time. Nope.
December 14, 2025
Fair warning, this review is harsh.
I’m seeing this far too often with romance authors lately where they take on subject matters that they really just don’t have the skillset for. And that was the case here.
This book was a mess. So many subplots left completely underdeveloped and because of that the romance aspect was also weak because the author took these two characters who have been through some big tragedies and glossed right over them, making their relationship shallow. These are two characters that could have been drawn together for so much more than their looks but that seemed to be the only thing there.
Also the FMC came across extremely pathetic because there was absolutely no character growth with her beyond her finally getting in the ocean with her hair treatment. Groundbreaking.
If romance authors can’t figure out how to write some real depth and character development when it comes to tragedy/heavier subject matter their characters face then they need to just not bother putting it in their books and just stick to smut. Because lazy attempts like this book just come across like the authors are just using the tragedies for shock value and nothing else.
I’m seeing this far too often with romance authors lately where they take on subject matters that they really just don’t have the skillset for. And that was the case here.
This book was a mess. So many subplots left completely underdeveloped and because of that the romance aspect was also weak because the author took these two characters who have been through some big tragedies and glossed right over them, making their relationship shallow. These are two characters that could have been drawn together for so much more than their looks but that seemed to be the only thing there.
Also the FMC came across extremely pathetic because there was absolutely no character growth with her beyond her finally getting in the ocean with her hair treatment. Groundbreaking.
If romance authors can’t figure out how to write some real depth and character development when it comes to tragedy/heavier subject matter their characters face then they need to just not bother putting it in their books and just stick to smut. Because lazy attempts like this book just come across like the authors are just using the tragedies for shock value and nothing else.
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