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Georgia Jaguars Hockey #1
Could've Fooled Me
She married him to stay in the country. She didn’t expect him to feel like home.
Sarah Stone never meant to marry a hockey player.
She doesn’t even like hockey—too loud, too violent. But when her visa runs out and going home isn’t an option, marrying one of her brother’s teammates becomes the fastest way to stay in the country.
Carter Williamson is boyishly handsome, charming, and exactly the kind of man who makes a temporary marriage feel dangerous in all the wrong (right?) ways. He respects the rules, takes the pretending seriously, and somehow manages to make her feel safer than she has in years.
Which is inconvenient because he's also determined to keep things strictly business.
Or so he says. Something about the way he looks at her makes Sarah think he’s struggling as much as she is to remember their marriage is fake.
But then a crisis on the ice sends them both into a tailspin, and Carter and Sarah have to decide if the fragile life they’ve built together is one they want to fight for.
This was supposed to be paperwork. Not feelings.
Definitely not love.
Sarah Stone never meant to marry a hockey player.
She doesn’t even like hockey—too loud, too violent. But when her visa runs out and going home isn’t an option, marrying one of her brother’s teammates becomes the fastest way to stay in the country.
Carter Williamson is boyishly handsome, charming, and exactly the kind of man who makes a temporary marriage feel dangerous in all the wrong (right?) ways. He respects the rules, takes the pretending seriously, and somehow manages to make her feel safer than she has in years.
Which is inconvenient because he's also determined to keep things strictly business.
Or so he says. Something about the way he looks at her makes Sarah think he’s struggling as much as she is to remember their marriage is fake.
But then a crisis on the ice sends them both into a tailspin, and Carter and Sarah have to decide if the fragile life they’ve built together is one they want to fight for.
This was supposed to be paperwork. Not feelings.
Definitely not love.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2026
527 people are currently reading
1534 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Proctor
42 books2,381 followersJenny Proctor is an award-winning author of more than fourteen romantic comedies and an Amazon bestseller. She began her career in publishing in 2013; her writing has been a constant since then, but she's also spent time as the owner and managing editor of Midnight Owl Editors and the chair of the Storymakers Conference. Wired for relationships, Jenny loves public speaking, teaching, and building lasting connections.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
Jenny was born in the mountains of Western North Carolina, a place she considers one of the loveliest on earth. She loves to hike with her family and spend time outdoors, but she also adores lounging around her home, reading great books or watching great movies and, when she’s lucky, eating delicious food she doesn’t have to prepare herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 444 reviews
March 26, 2026
pre read:
ANOTHER HOCKEY ROMANCE ARC YES
a huge thank you to netgalley,Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and Jenny Proctor for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have never read a hockey romance that was a marriage of convenience trope. I loved seeing sarah fight to be able to be there anna giving birth. I loved all of the tension between sarah and carter. The georgia jaguars felt really flushed out and i believed that they were really a team. miles did make me upset for bit, but thankfully he came around. i know he had the right intentions in protecting sarah. i'm glad that the whole "penny for your thoughts" was a big plot in the book and that they kept it all way through. when we were first introduced to rebecca i couldn't help but want her and theos story.
ANOTHER HOCKEY ROMANCE ARC YES
a huge thank you to netgalley,Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and Jenny Proctor for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have never read a hockey romance that was a marriage of convenience trope. I loved seeing sarah fight to be able to be there anna giving birth. I loved all of the tension between sarah and carter. The georgia jaguars felt really flushed out and i believed that they were really a team. miles did make me upset for bit, but thankfully he came around. i know he had the right intentions in protecting sarah. i'm glad that the whole "penny for your thoughts" was a big plot in the book and that they kept it all way through. when we were first introduced to rebecca i couldn't help but want her and theos story.
March 26, 2026
I'm seriously all smiles right now! I just finished reading this one and absolutely loved it!!! From the first meeting of Sarah and Carter to the epilogue of their happily ever after...all the love!!! This one had me laughing, giggling, tearing up, swooning, cheering for Sarah and Carter to figure it all out, and sooo much more!!! Now I need the other Jaguar hockey players' stories!!! Especially Theo's. He's Carter's twin brother! Oh my heart!!! They're all going to be great! I can't wait!!! But I must. It'll be worth it!
A fake-dating, marriage of convenience, they both fall secretly, adorable vibes, rom-com, they help each other heal from the past, HOCKEY (for those of you in your hockey era), and so many other great tropes that will hook you from the beginning and not let you go!
If you know me, you'll know that I love a good, fun, clean, swoony and heartfelt marriage of convenience! This one checked all of the boxes for me. And more! I loved the dynamics of their growing relationship. I loved their friendship that grew! I loved their openness in conversing. I loved how they made it their own relationship and not let others who knew it was a marriage of convenience tell them how it should be. And when they tried, Sarah and Carter just kept to their own plan.
The sweet gestures and trying to do things for each other to help them, and to remember what each other likes. Doing those little things go a long way!
These two have had hardships in their lives in the past and things that still affect them now. I loved watching them work together through those struggles. And how they understood and didn't judge but loved each other. So even though this is a rom-com type book, it definitely has more heartfelt moments and will tug at your heartstrings! I just adored it all! This is definitely a go-to read again book!
Content: The author has a content warning at the beginning of the book. To sum it up, the book has several characters who have lost loved ones to cancer, car accident, some child abuse in the past and its impact, some conversations about mental health and panic attacks, a character who is pregnant and had postpartum depression in the past. With all of these topics, it was written in a very gentle and sensitive way. I thought it was great and not overwhelming. With all of that I thought it was a clean read. There is some kissing and some of the kisses at the end got a little more intense but nothing more than kissing. Some mild innuendos. The couple share a bed on their wedding night but just talk and don't touch except being snuggled together in the morning. Then later on a delayed honeymoon there is the mention that they make love but no details. There is a secondary character who is Sarah's best friend and he is gay. Nothing is said other than that he has a boyfriend and do stuff with his family.
I received a copy from the author/publisher, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
A fake-dating, marriage of convenience, they both fall secretly, adorable vibes, rom-com, they help each other heal from the past, HOCKEY (for those of you in your hockey era), and so many other great tropes that will hook you from the beginning and not let you go!
If you know me, you'll know that I love a good, fun, clean, swoony and heartfelt marriage of convenience! This one checked all of the boxes for me. And more! I loved the dynamics of their growing relationship. I loved their friendship that grew! I loved their openness in conversing. I loved how they made it their own relationship and not let others who knew it was a marriage of convenience tell them how it should be. And when they tried, Sarah and Carter just kept to their own plan.
The sweet gestures and trying to do things for each other to help them, and to remember what each other likes. Doing those little things go a long way!
These two have had hardships in their lives in the past and things that still affect them now. I loved watching them work together through those struggles. And how they understood and didn't judge but loved each other. So even though this is a rom-com type book, it definitely has more heartfelt moments and will tug at your heartstrings! I just adored it all! This is definitely a go-to read again book!
Content: The author has a content warning at the beginning of the book. To sum it up, the book has several characters who have lost loved ones to cancer, car accident, some child abuse in the past and its impact, some conversations about mental health and panic attacks, a character who is pregnant and had postpartum depression in the past. With all of these topics, it was written in a very gentle and sensitive way. I thought it was great and not overwhelming. With all of that I thought it was a clean read. There is some kissing and some of the kisses at the end got a little more intense but nothing more than kissing. Some mild innuendos. The couple share a bed on their wedding night but just talk and don't touch except being snuggled together in the morning. Then later on a delayed honeymoon there is the mention that they make love but no details. There is a secondary character who is Sarah's best friend and he is gay. Nothing is said other than that he has a boyfriend and do stuff with his family.
I received a copy from the author/publisher, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 25, 2026
This BOOOOOOOK 😭 oh my gosh this was the most perfect rom com! My heart needed it 💖🥹 I can’t wait for my Jaguar books
Sarah. What a sweetheart 💖 I loved her relationship with her brother and sister in law and also HER NEICES? 🥹😭 so freaking cute 🥰 I absolutely loved learning more about the art world through her 🎨 and I LOVED watching her heart soften and learn to trust as she fell in love ❤️🩹
Carter. 💚 GREEN FLAG ALERT 💚 this man is pure GOLD 🌟 the way that he constantly lifts and supports everyone was so amazing 🥹 I was so excited to revisit his character after “When Alec Met Evie” (Que me screaming at the Alec references 🤭). His relationship with Theo is EVERYTHING 😭 and lets talk about how he falls first and HARD 🫠 mans was down bad and I was 👏🏻 here 👏🏻 for 👏🏻 it 👏🏻
I had the best time reading this book 📖 make sure you check it out!
Side character is part of the LGBTQ+ community (Emerson you iconic gay bsf 😂)
⚠️ CW: childhood trauma, cancer, postpartum depression (in the past). Author has a note at the start of the book⚠️
Sarah. What a sweetheart 💖 I loved her relationship with her brother and sister in law and also HER NEICES? 🥹😭 so freaking cute 🥰 I absolutely loved learning more about the art world through her 🎨 and I LOVED watching her heart soften and learn to trust as she fell in love ❤️🩹
Carter. 💚 GREEN FLAG ALERT 💚 this man is pure GOLD 🌟 the way that he constantly lifts and supports everyone was so amazing 🥹 I was so excited to revisit his character after “When Alec Met Evie” (Que me screaming at the Alec references 🤭). His relationship with Theo is EVERYTHING 😭 and lets talk about how he falls first and HARD 🫠 mans was down bad and I was 👏🏻 here 👏🏻 for 👏🏻 it 👏🏻
I had the best time reading this book 📖 make sure you check it out!
Side character is part of the LGBTQ+ community (Emerson you iconic gay bsf 😂)
⚠️ CW: childhood trauma, cancer, postpartum depression (in the past). Author has a note at the start of the book⚠️
March 30, 2026
4.5 - Thank you so much to Booked with Emilys and Jenny Proctor for the advance copy of this!
This book is out now!
I am still fairly new to Jenny's writing. My first introduction to her was the summer of 2024 when I read her boy band book (which obviously I had to read). I was very excited to learn that she was starting a new hockey series.
This one does star characters that appeared in a prior hockey series of hers but having not read it, I would never have known that was the case. So I thought Jenny did an excellent job with not putting to much (or actually none) on the book where Carter & Theo were in originally.
"I don't know how I'm going to make it nine days without touching you, but it'll help to know that at least something of mine is against your skin."
I haven't read a marriage of convenience in awhile so it was refreshing to get back into that trope. It's a similar vein as fake dating and I loved it. Sarah is originally from Canada and her student Visa is about to run out and needed to find a way to stay in the United States. Her brother Miles plays hockey in the states, her sister in law is pregnant with her 3rd kid and Sarah already has already missed so much with being in school and or out of the country. She really just wants to stay close to everyone but her options are limited on what she can do to remain in the states. Miles comes up with a plan for her to marry one of her teammates and then she can become a teacher. While being a teacher is not something she is interested in pursuing, marrying one of his teammates is something she isn't fully on board with.
Enter Carter Williamson. This dreamboat golden retriever who has the cutest meet cute over chicken nuggets. Carter is immediately smitten with Sarah. Carter is a twin and he is used to everyone wanting his brother Theo so for Sarah to click with him, he is taken aback. He falls first and he falls hard. The book explores their relationship and them getting to know one another. Things progress slow and they have set up rules/boundaries in order to protect themselves. Sarah has things she has to work through from her childhood and Carter is trying to grow out of the dependency with his brother. The two of them just have the cutest relationship. And over the course of the months, they really grew to care about one another.
"Whatever. I smell like paint and varnish."
"Okay, true. But also...honeysuckle? Sometimes organes. And sometimes roses.
"You're taking notes, huh?"
I shrug. "Just noticing. I notice everything about you."
This couple was put through a few things especially towards the end. The moment when Sarah's sister in law Anna gives birth, Carter wanted to make sure he was there with her and just them with baby Fiona was just so cute. And then on the flip side, Sarah joined Carter in the hospital for something (not spoiling) and oh my heart! That whole setup just was too sweet for words and they just cared and loved each other so much!
My only small hiccup was about halfway through I felt like their relationship was kind of stalling as they were not communicating to one another how they were feeling. Even though they were getting to know one another, I just wanted them to move to that next level a little sooner. This is also just a Stephanie thing as I'm not a big fan of slow burns.
I love that we got to see into the future of Sarah and Carter and Jenny set up the next book perfectly! I cannot wait to see Theo get his happily ever after (and yes you know who it will be with and no I'm not saying who). I highly recommend if you are looking for a hockey romance, marriage of convenience and captain's sister x golden retriever teammate.
This book is out now!
I am still fairly new to Jenny's writing. My first introduction to her was the summer of 2024 when I read her boy band book (which obviously I had to read). I was very excited to learn that she was starting a new hockey series.
This one does star characters that appeared in a prior hockey series of hers but having not read it, I would never have known that was the case. So I thought Jenny did an excellent job with not putting to much (or actually none) on the book where Carter & Theo were in originally.
"I don't know how I'm going to make it nine days without touching you, but it'll help to know that at least something of mine is against your skin."
I haven't read a marriage of convenience in awhile so it was refreshing to get back into that trope. It's a similar vein as fake dating and I loved it. Sarah is originally from Canada and her student Visa is about to run out and needed to find a way to stay in the United States. Her brother Miles plays hockey in the states, her sister in law is pregnant with her 3rd kid and Sarah already has already missed so much with being in school and or out of the country. She really just wants to stay close to everyone but her options are limited on what she can do to remain in the states. Miles comes up with a plan for her to marry one of her teammates and then she can become a teacher. While being a teacher is not something she is interested in pursuing, marrying one of his teammates is something she isn't fully on board with.
Enter Carter Williamson. This dreamboat golden retriever who has the cutest meet cute over chicken nuggets. Carter is immediately smitten with Sarah. Carter is a twin and he is used to everyone wanting his brother Theo so for Sarah to click with him, he is taken aback. He falls first and he falls hard. The book explores their relationship and them getting to know one another. Things progress slow and they have set up rules/boundaries in order to protect themselves. Sarah has things she has to work through from her childhood and Carter is trying to grow out of the dependency with his brother. The two of them just have the cutest relationship. And over the course of the months, they really grew to care about one another.
"Whatever. I smell like paint and varnish."
"Okay, true. But also...honeysuckle? Sometimes organes. And sometimes roses.
"You're taking notes, huh?"
I shrug. "Just noticing. I notice everything about you."
This couple was put through a few things especially towards the end. The moment when Sarah's sister in law Anna gives birth, Carter wanted to make sure he was there with her and just them with baby Fiona was just so cute. And then on the flip side, Sarah joined Carter in the hospital for something (not spoiling) and oh my heart! That whole setup just was too sweet for words and they just cared and loved each other so much!
My only small hiccup was about halfway through I felt like their relationship was kind of stalling as they were not communicating to one another how they were feeling. Even though they were getting to know one another, I just wanted them to move to that next level a little sooner. This is also just a Stephanie thing as I'm not a big fan of slow burns.
I love that we got to see into the future of Sarah and Carter and Jenny set up the next book perfectly! I cannot wait to see Theo get his happily ever after (and yes you know who it will be with and no I'm not saying who). I highly recommend if you are looking for a hockey romance, marriage of convenience and captain's sister x golden retriever teammate.
April 29, 2026
Could’ve Fooled Me is everything I was expecting and more! Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down—I finished around 4am. It’s my new favorite by Jenny Proctor.
Carter and Sarah are so perfect together. I loved watching their instant chemistry and attraction deepen over time. Carter is solid and steady, his presence comforting Sarah right off the bat. He’s supportive, respectful, and incredibly thoughtful—a total green flag. I love how considerate he is and how much he absolutely adores his wife. He never stood a chance.
Sarah is sweet and loyal—a total ray of sunshine. I love how she showed up for her family and how she supported Carter in the ways she could. The way Jenny describes her art is incredible. I wish we could see it in real life!
All the relationship dynamics in this story made it that much sweeter. I loved seeing Carter and Sarah interacting with their families and each other’s families. Carter and his twin Theo have such a special bond, and I love how Holly and his daughter fit right into the mix. I’m excited about Theo and Rebecca’s story and definitely want to see more of Holly.
Overall, this was such a sweet, swoony, feel-good read with characters I didn’t want to let go of. If you love steady, supportive MMCs, pretend kisses turning real, and strong family dynamics, you’ll definitely want to add this one to your TBR!
✨Includes:✨
Pro Hockey Defenseman
Artist
Marriage Of Convenience (Visa)
Strangers To Friends To More
Golden Retriever MMC
Captain’s Sister
Brother’s Teammate
Green Flag MMC
He Falls First
Forced Proximity
One Bed
“My Wife” Moment
Anxiety Rep
Found Family
No 3rd Act Breakup
He’s A Twin
Cat Dad
She Wears His Clothes
Dual POV
Fade To Black - Married Couple
💙Favorites:💙
The photoshoot
Pinky promise
The engagement
Carter’s thoughtfulness about everything
Holly and Theo’s advice
The pre-wedding kiss
Carter standing up to Miles
The Nine Days Kiss
Penny for your thoughts
Sarah’s paintings for Carter
Thank you Jenny Proctor and BookedWithTheEmilys for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Carter and Sarah are so perfect together. I loved watching their instant chemistry and attraction deepen over time. Carter is solid and steady, his presence comforting Sarah right off the bat. He’s supportive, respectful, and incredibly thoughtful—a total green flag. I love how considerate he is and how much he absolutely adores his wife. He never stood a chance.
Sarah is sweet and loyal—a total ray of sunshine. I love how she showed up for her family and how she supported Carter in the ways she could. The way Jenny describes her art is incredible. I wish we could see it in real life!
All the relationship dynamics in this story made it that much sweeter. I loved seeing Carter and Sarah interacting with their families and each other’s families. Carter and his twin Theo have such a special bond, and I love how Holly and his daughter fit right into the mix. I’m excited about Theo and Rebecca’s story and definitely want to see more of Holly.
Overall, this was such a sweet, swoony, feel-good read with characters I didn’t want to let go of. If you love steady, supportive MMCs, pretend kisses turning real, and strong family dynamics, you’ll definitely want to add this one to your TBR!
✨Includes:✨
Pro Hockey Defenseman
Artist
Marriage Of Convenience (Visa)
Strangers To Friends To More
Golden Retriever MMC
Captain’s Sister
Brother’s Teammate
Green Flag MMC
He Falls First
Forced Proximity
One Bed
“My Wife” Moment
Anxiety Rep
Found Family
No 3rd Act Breakup
He’s A Twin
Cat Dad
She Wears His Clothes
Dual POV
Fade To Black - Married Couple
💙Favorites:💙
The photoshoot
Pinky promise
The engagement
Carter’s thoughtfulness about everything
Holly and Theo’s advice
The pre-wedding kiss
Carter standing up to Miles
The Nine Days Kiss
Penny for your thoughts
Sarah’s paintings for Carter
Thank you Jenny Proctor and BookedWithTheEmilys for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 2, 2026
When Alec Met Evie was a 5* read for me, and I loved how Alec took on a mentorship/father figure role with the twins. So imagine my utter delight when I realise this book is THE Carter and Theo!
“Still don’t know what we’re talking about here, Miles,” I say. He takes a deep breath, leveling me with a piercing look, before he finally says, “I was thinking that maybe you could marry Sarah.”
Jenny Proctor is the queen of cute hockey romance and this one didn’t disappoint. A cute fate dating / marriage of convenience where’s she’s his teammate’s little sister. I love a romance where the marriage is fake but the use of ‘my wife’ is real!!
Carter agrees to marry Sarah so she doesn’t get deported and has a chance to get her artist visa. He was so supportive of her and knew she’d achieve her dreams - I loved how he was invested in her art. Their relationship was so sweet.
“I expected us to get engaged. But I didn’t expect how easy it would feel. How kissing her would feel like the beginning of something much bigger than a marriage of convenience.”
I can’t wait for the next instalment in this series - my money is on it being Theo and Rebecca!
ARC copy provided by Victory Editing & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
“Still don’t know what we’re talking about here, Miles,” I say. He takes a deep breath, leveling me with a piercing look, before he finally says, “I was thinking that maybe you could marry Sarah.”
Jenny Proctor is the queen of cute hockey romance and this one didn’t disappoint. A cute fate dating / marriage of convenience where’s she’s his teammate’s little sister. I love a romance where the marriage is fake but the use of ‘my wife’ is real!!
Carter agrees to marry Sarah so she doesn’t get deported and has a chance to get her artist visa. He was so supportive of her and knew she’d achieve her dreams - I loved how he was invested in her art. Their relationship was so sweet.
“I expected us to get engaged. But I didn’t expect how easy it would feel. How kissing her would feel like the beginning of something much bigger than a marriage of convenience.”
I can’t wait for the next instalment in this series - my money is on it being Theo and Rebecca!
ARC copy provided by Victory Editing & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Any time someone says that a book is marriage of convenience… I’m hooked. They’re my favorite. And this one… might be the sweetest one of all time.
Carter brings with him the strength of a hockey player, he’s rough, and he’s tough, in the ice. But off the ice… he’s the epitome of the perfect MMC. He’s a cinnamon roll, but also a golden retriever. He’s gentle, caring, and sweet. The moment he held Fiona… SWOON!!!
Sarah is an amazing aunt. And artist. And clearly an amazing wife. I adored the fact they the chemistry, connection, and attraction between her and Carter was there from the beginning. So many times in an MOC it takes a while for that connection to grow, but Sarah and Carter had that instant connection that had me cheering them on, and not wanting to put the book down!
I loved that although Sarah and Carter were swoony and so likable they also had flaws. They were real and relatable!
A few warnings for this book: mentions of past physical abuse to a side character, mentions of past postpartum depression, mentioned of past parental death, and for my Christian readers there is a fairly prominent side character living life alternate to God’s design.
Thank you so much to the Emily’s and to Jenny for my ARC copy!
Carter brings with him the strength of a hockey player, he’s rough, and he’s tough, in the ice. But off the ice… he’s the epitome of the perfect MMC. He’s a cinnamon roll, but also a golden retriever. He’s gentle, caring, and sweet. The moment he held Fiona… SWOON!!!
Sarah is an amazing aunt. And artist. And clearly an amazing wife. I adored the fact they the chemistry, connection, and attraction between her and Carter was there from the beginning. So many times in an MOC it takes a while for that connection to grow, but Sarah and Carter had that instant connection that had me cheering them on, and not wanting to put the book down!
I loved that although Sarah and Carter were swoony and so likable they also had flaws. They were real and relatable!
A few warnings for this book: mentions of past physical abuse to a side character, mentions of past postpartum depression, mentioned of past parental death, and for my Christian readers there is a fairly prominent side character living life alternate to God’s design.
Thank you so much to the Emily’s and to Jenny for my ARC copy!
April 20, 2026
I love a good hockey romance and Jenny Procter is pretty much the queen of them! Needless to say I was really looking forward to reading Could've Fooled Me and it delivered in every way!
Sarah is an artist, newly out of college who has been going to school in the US, living close to her brother and his family, and helping with their kids. She is originally from Canada and her visa is about to run out. Since her brother, a professional hockey player, is the only close family she has, and he and his wife have another child on the way, she wants to stay close by but is running out of options. Carter Williamson is a teammate to her brother, and is a total sweetheart. When Sarah’s brother comes up with a plan for Sarah to marry Carter, it seems to be the fastest and easiest way to stay in the country.
Oh, this book had me smiling big! The meet cute between Sarah and Carter, over chicken nuggets, was the sweetest thing ever! Well aside from Carter, who was pretty much perfect in every way! I immediately fell for how kind and thoughtful he was and I can see why Miles, Sarah's brother, thought of him first when he was looking for one of his teammates for Sarah to marry. Little did he know that Sarah and Carter had already hit it off when they met. The chemistry between them was high and you could tell this marriage of convenience wasn’t going to stay fake for long. I'm not sure it ever really was fake to begin with. As soon as Carter was asked he was mainly concerned with committing fraud, not the marrying Sarah part. He was already attracted to her and wondering if his feelings would become real through this process.
Sarah was worried that the trade off was mainly in her favor and that she would be taking advantage of Carter's goodness.
I love the relationship between these two as well as the relationship between Carter and his twin brother Theo. This book had such great family dynamics and was so much fun to read. Sarah had some childhood trauma that she was working through and I thought it was portrayed in a very real and sensitive way. It also did not take away from the lightness of the story. The kisses were super swoony and the way Carter and Sarah showed up for each other was so heartwarming. I enjoyed this one immensely and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a closed door hockey romance that still sizzles.
If you have read Jenny’s books before you may remember Carter and Theo from When Alec Met Evie and if not you need to add it to your TBR ASAP. Note: It is not necessary to have read it first to enjoy this story.
Content Awareness: Loss of parents in the past, Abuse in the past. None of this happens on page and there is a content warning from the author at the beginning of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 ⭐️
Sarah is an artist, newly out of college who has been going to school in the US, living close to her brother and his family, and helping with their kids. She is originally from Canada and her visa is about to run out. Since her brother, a professional hockey player, is the only close family she has, and he and his wife have another child on the way, she wants to stay close by but is running out of options. Carter Williamson is a teammate to her brother, and is a total sweetheart. When Sarah’s brother comes up with a plan for Sarah to marry Carter, it seems to be the fastest and easiest way to stay in the country.
Oh, this book had me smiling big! The meet cute between Sarah and Carter, over chicken nuggets, was the sweetest thing ever! Well aside from Carter, who was pretty much perfect in every way! I immediately fell for how kind and thoughtful he was and I can see why Miles, Sarah's brother, thought of him first when he was looking for one of his teammates for Sarah to marry. Little did he know that Sarah and Carter had already hit it off when they met. The chemistry between them was high and you could tell this marriage of convenience wasn’t going to stay fake for long. I'm not sure it ever really was fake to begin with. As soon as Carter was asked he was mainly concerned with committing fraud, not the marrying Sarah part. He was already attracted to her and wondering if his feelings would become real through this process.
Sarah was worried that the trade off was mainly in her favor and that she would be taking advantage of Carter's goodness.
I love the relationship between these two as well as the relationship between Carter and his twin brother Theo. This book had such great family dynamics and was so much fun to read. Sarah had some childhood trauma that she was working through and I thought it was portrayed in a very real and sensitive way. It also did not take away from the lightness of the story. The kisses were super swoony and the way Carter and Sarah showed up for each other was so heartwarming. I enjoyed this one immensely and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a closed door hockey romance that still sizzles.
If you have read Jenny’s books before you may remember Carter and Theo from When Alec Met Evie and if not you need to add it to your TBR ASAP. Note: It is not necessary to have read it first to enjoy this story.
Content Awareness: Loss of parents in the past, Abuse in the past. None of this happens on page and there is a content warning from the author at the beginning of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 ⭐️
March 31, 2026
When Sarah Stone’s immigration visa runs out, a fake marriage to her brother’s hockey-playing teammate seems like the simplest solution. Carter Williamson is charming, careful, and far too easy to feel safe with. But as real feelings grow and a crisis on the ice changes everything, their temporary arrangement starts to look dangerously like love.
Squealing! Forget the abundance of marriage-of-convenience physical affection and the tension of sharing a (picked out for her—eeek!) house—well, don’t forget them completely, we’re romance-loving girlies after all. But what I’m trying to say is, these characters pack enough swoon and charm on their own to warrant a read regardless of your love for tropes.
This is for the sugary-sweet romance lovers—Carter and Sarah are just dolls, hiding their feelings from themselves and each other the whole time. Their problems exist outside of them—Carter helping his twin brother Theo, Sarah trying to stay in the country for her sister-in-law’s pregnancy and newborn. I was living for their flirty yearning for one another the whole way through. Strictly business? Could’ve fooled me.
Thank you @bookedwiththeemilys and @jennyproctor for the eARC!
Perfect for you if you like: Sports marriage of convenience with a twist!
Golden retriever MMC
Artsy girl
Similar:
Holliday Hostilities by Katie Bailey
When Alec Met Evie by Jenny Proctor
Secret or Shutout by Leah Brunner
🌶️closed door romance
⚠️previous death of parents, hockey injury, previous parental abuse
Squealing! Forget the abundance of marriage-of-convenience physical affection and the tension of sharing a (picked out for her—eeek!) house—well, don’t forget them completely, we’re romance-loving girlies after all. But what I’m trying to say is, these characters pack enough swoon and charm on their own to warrant a read regardless of your love for tropes.
This is for the sugary-sweet romance lovers—Carter and Sarah are just dolls, hiding their feelings from themselves and each other the whole time. Their problems exist outside of them—Carter helping his twin brother Theo, Sarah trying to stay in the country for her sister-in-law’s pregnancy and newborn. I was living for their flirty yearning for one another the whole way through. Strictly business? Could’ve fooled me.
Thank you @bookedwiththeemilys and @jennyproctor for the eARC!
Perfect for you if you like: Sports marriage of convenience with a twist!
Golden retriever MMC
Artsy girl
Similar:
Holliday Hostilities by Katie Bailey
When Alec Met Evie by Jenny Proctor
Secret or Shutout by Leah Brunner
🌶️closed door romance
⚠️previous death of parents, hockey injury, previous parental abuse
April 12, 2026
(I received a complimentary copy of this title from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
What a lovely addition to the closed door hockey romance genre!
“Could’ve Fooled Me” is the first book of a brand new series titled, “Georgia Jaguars Hockey.” If you have read the Appies books by this author and Emma St. Clair, you will love this story! Plus, you may even hear some character names you know and love mentioned from that series–in fact, you may already know the MMC from Jenny’s last Appie’s book, where he was introduced!
I loved Sarah and Carter, and I’m so excited for Theo’s story to come next!
This story is a classic marriage-of-convenience trope and it was done so well. Carter was truly the sweetest MMC, and I really fell in love with Sarah and her art. I also loved the sibling relationships in this story between Sarah and her sister-in-law and Carter and Theo.
I flew through this story and smiled the whole way through.
Note: As previously mentioned, this story is “closed door” rather than “sweet/clean.” The door is VERY closed and the scene is between a married couple. I just want to add this note in case this is important to anyone. As always, let me know if you have any content questions. You can send me a DM over on IG (@emilylovesreading_) anytime.
I’m excited for this new series!
What a lovely addition to the closed door hockey romance genre!
“Could’ve Fooled Me” is the first book of a brand new series titled, “Georgia Jaguars Hockey.” If you have read the Appies books by this author and Emma St. Clair, you will love this story! Plus, you may even hear some character names you know and love mentioned from that series–in fact, you may already know the MMC from Jenny’s last Appie’s book, where he was introduced!
I loved Sarah and Carter, and I’m so excited for Theo’s story to come next!
This story is a classic marriage-of-convenience trope and it was done so well. Carter was truly the sweetest MMC, and I really fell in love with Sarah and her art. I also loved the sibling relationships in this story between Sarah and her sister-in-law and Carter and Theo.
I flew through this story and smiled the whole way through.
Note: As previously mentioned, this story is “closed door” rather than “sweet/clean.” The door is VERY closed and the scene is between a married couple. I just want to add this note in case this is important to anyone. As always, let me know if you have any content questions. You can send me a DM over on IG (@emilylovesreading_) anytime.
I’m excited for this new series!
April 9, 2026
If you're looking for a heartfelt, chemistry-filled marriage of convenience romance that has all the tropes readers love, plus emotional depth, look no further!! Sarah Stone never planned to marry a hockey player—especially not one she barely knows and doesn’t fully understand. Hockey is loud, chaotic, and everything she tries to avoid. With her visa coming to an end and returning to Canada isn't something she wants to do, her brother comes up with a crazy idea that she marry his teammate. The teammate in question: Carter Williamson—handsome, charming, respectful, and oh so dangerous for one's heart.
I love dual POV. Getting inside both Sarah and Carter’s heads adds so much to the story. The tension between them is built on restraint—following the careful rules they've agreed upon and the feelings that happen when they slowly start to bend them. Carter, especially, shines in his chapters. He falls first, even if he refuses to admit it outright, and watching him try (and fail) to keep things “strictly business” was so much fun!!
I loved the chemistry between Sarah and Carter. The attraction is undeniable from the start, but this is not insta-love. Their emotional connection grows through small acts of care and mutual respect. I loved the way they supported each other, especially how Carter supported Sarah's art before they were married. Her brother wanted her to be an art teacher, and that wasn't where her heart was—Carter completely understood that.
For readers who adore marriage of convenience, who's-going-to-fall-first, and hockey romance with heart, this one absolutely scores. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley.
Content: kisses only (some intense); a secondary gay character (Sarah's best friend from art school). The author has a content warning at the beginning of the book, which you can read in the sample on Amazon.
I love dual POV. Getting inside both Sarah and Carter’s heads adds so much to the story. The tension between them is built on restraint—following the careful rules they've agreed upon and the feelings that happen when they slowly start to bend them. Carter, especially, shines in his chapters. He falls first, even if he refuses to admit it outright, and watching him try (and fail) to keep things “strictly business” was so much fun!!
I loved the chemistry between Sarah and Carter. The attraction is undeniable from the start, but this is not insta-love. Their emotional connection grows through small acts of care and mutual respect. I loved the way they supported each other, especially how Carter supported Sarah's art before they were married. Her brother wanted her to be an art teacher, and that wasn't where her heart was—Carter completely understood that.
For readers who adore marriage of convenience, who's-going-to-fall-first, and hockey romance with heart, this one absolutely scores. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley.
Content: kisses only (some intense); a secondary gay character (Sarah's best friend from art school). The author has a content warning at the beginning of the book, which you can read in the sample on Amazon.
May 1, 2026
A dual POV marriage of convenience rom-com with hockey vibes, brother’s teammate, he falls first and the most golden retriever MMC I have met in awhile.
Carter is the greenest of green flags book boyfriend/husband. I adored how good he was and how he took care of Sarah in big and small ways. There was so much that made me swoon but the way he believed in her art and provided her with a space to create and genuinely not only encouraged but championed her, stole my heart. These two had lots of chemistry but beyond that they had a relationship that was both healing and supportive.
Not only were Sarah and Carter good together and for each other but the side characters and the family and friendship relationships add so much heart, laughs and life to the story. I can’t wait for more of these characters.
Carter is the greenest of green flags book boyfriend/husband. I adored how good he was and how he took care of Sarah in big and small ways. There was so much that made me swoon but the way he believed in her art and provided her with a space to create and genuinely not only encouraged but championed her, stole my heart. These two had lots of chemistry but beyond that they had a relationship that was both healing and supportive.
Not only were Sarah and Carter good together and for each other but the side characters and the family and friendship relationships add so much heart, laughs and life to the story. I can’t wait for more of these characters.
March 30, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley and Victor Editing for this arc.
This is my first book by Jenny Protor and I enjoyed it so much. Honestly, while I was reading this book, I kept thinking to myself, can they just be together for real already. I know they start off as strangers, but seriously it felt like they’ve known each other forever so I was just ready for them to admit their feelings to one another. It’s been a while since I’ve read a marriage of convenience troupe and I loved this one. I will definitely be continuing with this series!
This is my first book by Jenny Protor and I enjoyed it so much. Honestly, while I was reading this book, I kept thinking to myself, can they just be together for real already. I know they start off as strangers, but seriously it felt like they’ve known each other forever so I was just ready for them to admit their feelings to one another. It’s been a while since I’ve read a marriage of convenience troupe and I loved this one. I will definitely be continuing with this series!
March 31, 2026
3.75 ⭐
This was a nice, bingeable, palate cleansing read! I feel like I have read quite a few Jenny Proctor adjacent books, but never one by the author herself and this was such a fun introduction to her universe! The characters were relatable and the plot moved fairly quickly, but I think this had its upsides and its downsides. It was nice to see the characters' relationship unfold over a good chunk of time, but alternatively there were some gaps in the plot that I would have liked to see fleshed out more. I was missing who the characters were underneath as well and wanted to be convinced of deeper chemistry between them beyond just surface level attraction. But what the time jumps and lack of real resolution to the marriage of convenience trope ultimately meant was that my picture of Carter and Sarah as a couple never seemed complete. Individually, I really enjoyed what they had going for them. Carter, and how he navigated being a twin and compared to his brother his whole life, and Sarah's art career as well as her difficult family life. I think had the timeline been more concrete, and extra focus given to fleshing out the nitty gritty of the main character's relationship, it would have really brought this to the next level. Overall, an enjoyable read though and I would definitely pick up more by the author! Happy Reading :)
This was a nice, bingeable, palate cleansing read! I feel like I have read quite a few Jenny Proctor adjacent books, but never one by the author herself and this was such a fun introduction to her universe! The characters were relatable and the plot moved fairly quickly, but I think this had its upsides and its downsides. It was nice to see the characters' relationship unfold over a good chunk of time, but alternatively there were some gaps in the plot that I would have liked to see fleshed out more. I was missing who the characters were underneath as well and wanted to be convinced of deeper chemistry between them beyond just surface level attraction. But what the time jumps and lack of real resolution to the marriage of convenience trope ultimately meant was that my picture of Carter and Sarah as a couple never seemed complete. Individually, I really enjoyed what they had going for them. Carter, and how he navigated being a twin and compared to his brother his whole life, and Sarah's art career as well as her difficult family life. I think had the timeline been more concrete, and extra focus given to fleshing out the nitty gritty of the main character's relationship, it would have really brought this to the next level. Overall, an enjoyable read though and I would definitely pick up more by the author! Happy Reading :)
March 28, 2026
Jenny Proctor wrote a marriage of convenience hockey romcom, so of course I'm going to read it the day it comes out. :)
The perfect mood read. It wasn't my favorite book of hers, but I appreciated the slow burn romance and how she made it feel authentic.
4.5 stars
The perfect mood read. It wasn't my favorite book of hers, but I appreciated the slow burn romance and how she made it feel authentic.
4.5 stars
April 3, 2026
I loved this book from beginning to end.This story had some tender moments that had me rooting for them. I've loved this hockey series. I can't wait for the next book.
April 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💌
A fake marriage, a golden retriever hockey player, and two people quietly falling in love while pretending not to… yeah, I was GONE.
This story follows Sarah and Carter, who enter a marriage of convenience that quickly turns into something much deeper. What starts as a practical solution slowly builds into a relationship rooted in friendship, trust, and healing, and that progression is what really makes this book shine.
Carter Williamson??? green flag. No notes.
He falls first, he falls hard, and he shows up in every way that matters. He is patient, supportive, and genuinely cares about Sarah without trying to push her faster than she is ready to go. The way he pays attention to the little things and tries to make her feel safe and understood was easily one of the best parts of this book.
Sarah brings a quieter, more guarded energy. She has been through a lot, and watching her slowly open up, trust again, and find comfort in Carter felt very natural and heartfelt. Their relationship is built on small moments, conversations, and mutual respect, which made it feel real and grounded.
The dynamic between them is soft but layered. You get the slow build, the emotional connection, and the underlying tension of two people catching feelings in a situation that was never supposed to be real.
I also loved the found family elements and the side characters. The hockey team, the sibling dynamics, and the friendships added so much warmth to the story and made the world feel lived in.
My only small hiccup is that the pacing in the middle felt a little slow at times, and I found myself wanting them to fully step into their feelings just a bit sooner. But once the emotional payoff hits, it really works.
Overall, this is a sweet, heartfelt, low-spice romance that leans into emotional connection, healing, and soft love, and it absolutely delivers if that is your vibe.
Tropes:
🏒 hockey romance
💍 marriage of convenience
💖 he falls first
🤫 fake relationship
🫶 slow burn
👨👩👧 found family
💔 healing from the past
🐶 golden retriever MMC
Who should read this:
💖 readers who love soft, swoony romance
🏒 hockey romance fans in their era
✨ anyone who loves “he falls first and never stops”
🫶 readers who want emotional connection over spice
📚 fans of fake dating or marriage of convenience tropes
Carter Williamson supremacy is real and I will not be taking questions at this time 😌💅
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💌
A fake marriage, a golden retriever hockey player, and two people quietly falling in love while pretending not to… yeah, I was GONE.
This story follows Sarah and Carter, who enter a marriage of convenience that quickly turns into something much deeper. What starts as a practical solution slowly builds into a relationship rooted in friendship, trust, and healing, and that progression is what really makes this book shine.
Carter Williamson??? green flag. No notes.
He falls first, he falls hard, and he shows up in every way that matters. He is patient, supportive, and genuinely cares about Sarah without trying to push her faster than she is ready to go. The way he pays attention to the little things and tries to make her feel safe and understood was easily one of the best parts of this book.
Sarah brings a quieter, more guarded energy. She has been through a lot, and watching her slowly open up, trust again, and find comfort in Carter felt very natural and heartfelt. Their relationship is built on small moments, conversations, and mutual respect, which made it feel real and grounded.
The dynamic between them is soft but layered. You get the slow build, the emotional connection, and the underlying tension of two people catching feelings in a situation that was never supposed to be real.
I also loved the found family elements and the side characters. The hockey team, the sibling dynamics, and the friendships added so much warmth to the story and made the world feel lived in.
My only small hiccup is that the pacing in the middle felt a little slow at times, and I found myself wanting them to fully step into their feelings just a bit sooner. But once the emotional payoff hits, it really works.
Overall, this is a sweet, heartfelt, low-spice romance that leans into emotional connection, healing, and soft love, and it absolutely delivers if that is your vibe.
Tropes:
🏒 hockey romance
💍 marriage of convenience
💖 he falls first
🤫 fake relationship
🫶 slow burn
👨👩👧 found family
💔 healing from the past
🐶 golden retriever MMC
Who should read this:
💖 readers who love soft, swoony romance
🏒 hockey romance fans in their era
✨ anyone who loves “he falls first and never stops”
🫶 readers who want emotional connection over spice
📚 fans of fake dating or marriage of convenience tropes
Carter Williamson supremacy is real and I will not be taking questions at this time 😌💅
March 29, 2026
I wasn't prepared for how much I'd love this book, if I could give it more than five stars, I would. Marriage of convenience isn't usually my favorite trope, but I could not get enough of this one.
Sarah and Carter are just so wonderful. Sarah is sweet, caring, incredibly talented, and dealing with some heavy childhood trauma. She loves her family deeply and is heartbroken at the thought of having to leave them to return to Canada. Enter Carter. They immediately hit it off, but neither pursue anything since she's leaving. Then, through some major brotherly meddling, they wind up married so she can stay. Y'all, it is an understatement to say I adore Carter, he is an ideal MMC. He's solid, kind, ever the rule-follower, and such a caretaker. From the very start, he is biggest champion of Sarah and her career, supporting and protecting her in every situation (and when he pulled out the "my wife" I was goo). He is the greenest flag hero, and I am here for it. Plus, their banter and chemistry is scrumptious.
I also love all the side characters, Anna, Miles, Theo, and Holly were all so great. And Olive, Poppy, Charlie, and (eventually) Fiona were all such cuties. I am so excited for the rest of the series, especially for Holly's (don't get me wrong, I love Theo and just know his story is going to be wonderfully full of growth, but I'm a sucker for a single dad getting a second chance at love).
Thank you so much, Jenny, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Goodness, I loved this story and was so sad when it ended. All opinions are my own.
Sarah and Carter are just so wonderful. Sarah is sweet, caring, incredibly talented, and dealing with some heavy childhood trauma. She loves her family deeply and is heartbroken at the thought of having to leave them to return to Canada. Enter Carter. They immediately hit it off, but neither pursue anything since she's leaving. Then, through some major brotherly meddling, they wind up married so she can stay. Y'all, it is an understatement to say I adore Carter, he is an ideal MMC. He's solid, kind, ever the rule-follower, and such a caretaker. From the very start, he is biggest champion of Sarah and her career, supporting and protecting her in every situation (and when he pulled out the "my wife" I was goo). He is the greenest flag hero, and I am here for it. Plus, their banter and chemistry is scrumptious.
I also love all the side characters, Anna, Miles, Theo, and Holly were all so great. And Olive, Poppy, Charlie, and (eventually) Fiona were all such cuties. I am so excited for the rest of the series, especially for Holly's (don't get me wrong, I love Theo and just know his story is going to be wonderfully full of growth, but I'm a sucker for a single dad getting a second chance at love).
Thank you so much, Jenny, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Goodness, I loved this story and was so sad when it ended. All opinions are my own.
April 27, 2026
I want to start by saying this book “could’ve” been a favorite of mine but unfortunately it’s not exactly clean as it features an LGBTQ side character that talks about their preferences in the book. I have a bunch of younger girls I let borrow books from my personal library and their parents trust me to keep clean books so I’m really disappointed about this 😔
I also like to read to escape. I don’t really want to read books that feature highly divisive topics (politics would also fall in this category as well) I understand some of this stuff is real life but authors make these choices and can change them as well.
I know I’m just one voice but I hope this review might make a difference as I have loved and personally purchased several (5-6) paperback copies of hers, but I won’t continue to do so with these things represented. Please reconsider 🙏🏻
I also like to read to escape. I don’t really want to read books that feature highly divisive topics (politics would also fall in this category as well) I understand some of this stuff is real life but authors make these choices and can change them as well.
I know I’m just one voice but I hope this review might make a difference as I have loved and personally purchased several (5-6) paperback copies of hers, but I won’t continue to do so with these things represented. Please reconsider 🙏🏻
April 28, 2026
I’m struggling a but with how to review this. If I’m looking at this strictly from the main story and the writing, then I would give it a higher rating. Probably a four.
However, I only made it through 41% of the book. I was so invested. Loved the characters. Looking forward to seeing how it was gonna play out. And then a new character was introduced and an LGBT storyline with him. This was more than just a gay friend. His romantic relationship was the focus for a bit. I confess I don’t know how long because I stopped reading.
I’m well aware that many do not hold the same beliefs as I do. I’m also well aware that the author never claims this book to be Christian fiction. I want to make that clear. I’m not angry with the author. I have no reason to be. I’m just sad that a book that I was so enjoying, took a turn that made it no longer an option for me.
And so I share this because there are others that do hold the same beliefs. And I wish I known this before I got invested.
I want to add one more thing… It really is OK not to finish a book. Even a book you’re enjoying. If there’s something in it that you have a strong objection to, then don’t finish. I promise you’ll live.
However, I only made it through 41% of the book. I was so invested. Loved the characters. Looking forward to seeing how it was gonna play out. And then a new character was introduced and an LGBT storyline with him. This was more than just a gay friend. His romantic relationship was the focus for a bit. I confess I don’t know how long because I stopped reading.
I’m well aware that many do not hold the same beliefs as I do. I’m also well aware that the author never claims this book to be Christian fiction. I want to make that clear. I’m not angry with the author. I have no reason to be. I’m just sad that a book that I was so enjoying, took a turn that made it no longer an option for me.
And so I share this because there are others that do hold the same beliefs. And I wish I known this before I got invested.
I want to add one more thing… It really is OK not to finish a book. Even a book you’re enjoying. If there’s something in it that you have a strong objection to, then don’t finish. I promise you’ll live.
March 28, 2026
4.5⭐️ Carter is 🫠🥰 always has been, to be fair. Sarah was good. I liked her individual accomplishment. She needed to be rescued, but also not at all. Their chemistry was really great.
Only 2 complaints:
- I wanted to see a bit more of the growth in Sarah’s self-worth. Feels like we went from 0 to 60; I would’ve liked to see the development more.
- *POTENTIALLY MILD SPOILER* I didn’t like the timing of reconciliation with Miles and the beginnings of the real DTR. I just wanted that to be a more private moment. Felt like it lost a little bit of its luster.
Only 2 complaints:
- I wanted to see a bit more of the growth in Sarah’s self-worth. Feels like we went from 0 to 60; I would’ve liked to see the development more.
- *POTENTIALLY MILD SPOILER* I didn’t like the timing of reconciliation with Miles and the beginnings of the real DTR. I just wanted that to be a more private moment. Felt like it lost a little bit of its luster.
April 14, 2026
Have I read tons of marriage-of-convenience romances? Yes. Will I ever stop? No way. Especially not if they are as well done as Could’ve Fooled Me by Jenny Proctor!
I absolutely inhaled this book! Reading slump? Obliterated. From their first meeting, I was sold on Sarah and Carter. Carter is the epitome of a true golden retriever male main character. He looks out for those around him, builds people up, and genuinely wants to do the right thing. Sarah’s determined to pursue her career as an artist, despite discouragement from family and the looming deadline to leave the US. When Carter steps in to help, he’s nothing but encouraging. He champions her every step of the way!
And Carter was absolutely gone for her from the beginning, but it didn’t feel forced or rushed, as crazy as that sounds. The relationship progressed naturally, even with the unconventional situation. And a little forced proximity only helps things along, right? :)
Full of heartwarming conversations, layered characters, swoony “my wife” moments, and sizzling tension, Could’ve Fooled Me is my new favorite from Jenny Proctor. It’s available now on Amazon and free to read with your Kindle Unlimited Subscription!
Intimacy: Sizzling kisses, fade to black in marriage
Language: None
Content Considerations: Abuse (past), death of a loved one (past), anxiety rep, panic attacks, postpartum depression, LGBTQ minor side character
I absolutely inhaled this book! Reading slump? Obliterated. From their first meeting, I was sold on Sarah and Carter. Carter is the epitome of a true golden retriever male main character. He looks out for those around him, builds people up, and genuinely wants to do the right thing. Sarah’s determined to pursue her career as an artist, despite discouragement from family and the looming deadline to leave the US. When Carter steps in to help, he’s nothing but encouraging. He champions her every step of the way!
And Carter was absolutely gone for her from the beginning, but it didn’t feel forced or rushed, as crazy as that sounds. The relationship progressed naturally, even with the unconventional situation. And a little forced proximity only helps things along, right? :)
Full of heartwarming conversations, layered characters, swoony “my wife” moments, and sizzling tension, Could’ve Fooled Me is my new favorite from Jenny Proctor. It’s available now on Amazon and free to read with your Kindle Unlimited Subscription!
Intimacy: Sizzling kisses, fade to black in marriage
Language: None
Content Considerations: Abuse (past), death of a loved one (past), anxiety rep, panic attacks, postpartum depression, LGBTQ minor side character
May 5, 2026
4.5/5
Boy, did this book deliver! The green card version of marriage of convenience can be a little hit or miss for me, and this was definitely a hit! I appreciated that our characters had the start of something between the two of them before all the marriage shenanigans started happening. I also appreciated the depiction of love in this book. In addition to attraction, we also had a feeling of safety, and I absolutely loved that. Our main characters leaned on each other in such a beautiful way.
Can't wait to see what Jenny does with the rest of this series!
Boy, did this book deliver! The green card version of marriage of convenience can be a little hit or miss for me, and this was definitely a hit! I appreciated that our characters had the start of something between the two of them before all the marriage shenanigans started happening. I also appreciated the depiction of love in this book. In addition to attraction, we also had a feeling of safety, and I absolutely loved that. Our main characters leaned on each other in such a beautiful way.
Can't wait to see what Jenny does with the rest of this series!
March 25, 2026
I received a copy from the author via Booked with the Emily’s. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sarah and Carter <3
Sarah Stone’s student visa is expiring and she has to move back to Canada— leaving her brother, her sister-in-law, and nieces. The only path to staying is getting a prestigious visa… or getting married. Her brother can’t seem to keep his problem solving tendencies to himself and decides to ask his teammate Carter Williamson to marry her while she finds another way to stay. Except, Sarah hates hockey— it’s too loud, too violent.
As the two begin to spend time together, things start to feel less and less like pretend… and more and more like the real thing. Only, Carter is determined to keep everything strictly business… or so he says. Carter’s resolve is hanging by a thread and one step outside the clearly set rules will have him never wanting to let her go.
I need to read more of Jenny Procter’s books! I read book 6 of the Appies series, which Carter and his twin brother appear as rookies in! This is only my second book by her and I adored both <3
Read if you like:
• fake marriage
• marriage of convenience
• teammate’s sister
• sports/hockey romance
Sarah and Carter <3
Sarah Stone’s student visa is expiring and she has to move back to Canada— leaving her brother, her sister-in-law, and nieces. The only path to staying is getting a prestigious visa… or getting married. Her brother can’t seem to keep his problem solving tendencies to himself and decides to ask his teammate Carter Williamson to marry her while she finds another way to stay. Except, Sarah hates hockey— it’s too loud, too violent.
As the two begin to spend time together, things start to feel less and less like pretend… and more and more like the real thing. Only, Carter is determined to keep everything strictly business… or so he says. Carter’s resolve is hanging by a thread and one step outside the clearly set rules will have him never wanting to let her go.
I need to read more of Jenny Procter’s books! I read book 6 of the Appies series, which Carter and his twin brother appear as rookies in! This is only my second book by her and I adored both <3
Read if you like:
• fake marriage
• marriage of convenience
• teammate’s sister
• sports/hockey romance
April 19, 2026
Adorable! I loved the series Jenny and Emma St. Clair cowrote about the Appies, a fictional hockey team in Appalachia. So when I saw this book, I knew I’d enjoy it! It didn’t disappoint. It was a quick read that I found myself thinking about when I wasn’t reading it. Highly recommend! Especially for my fellow closed door romance readers.
April 2, 2026
no u don’t understand i love them sm
April 22, 2026
I love a good marriage of convenience story! Carter and Sarah were precious & absolutely sweet together. I loved a slight continuation of the Appies and enjoyed getting to know some new characters.
There was a small little part of the book I didn't love. But the rest of the book was great! I look forward to the series continuing.
There was a small little part of the book I didn't love. But the rest of the book was great! I look forward to the series continuing.
March 23, 2026
Once again, Jenny has knocked it out of the park! I loved this one so much. 🥹 The romance was SWOONY—Carter and Sarah seriously had such perfect chemistry. There was also so much depth to both of them and the marriage of convenience was well done.
I cannot wait for the rest of this series!
Content: kissing
I cannot wait for the rest of this series!
Content: kissing
April 3, 2026
This is a kisses only contemporary romcom. It is the first book in the Georgia Jaguars Hockey series that is a spin off from the Appies.
I enjoyed the main trope in this book. It is one of my favorites and is hard to write in a contemporary book. I really liked seeing the twins again and watching their relationship progress and mature. Sarah's family dynamic was also interesting to see develop. I think this will be another must read series for so many fans of romcom hockey that don't want spice.
There were a couple of content/trigger warnings that I do want to mention for other readers. Cancer is mentioned several times and many characters have been affected by it in the past. There is also a homosexual couple in this book. They are side characters, but their relationship is part of the story that could make some readers uncomfortable.
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book through Netgalley. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I enjoyed the main trope in this book. It is one of my favorites and is hard to write in a contemporary book. I really liked seeing the twins again and watching their relationship progress and mature. Sarah's family dynamic was also interesting to see develop. I think this will be another must read series for so many fans of romcom hockey that don't want spice.
There were a couple of content/trigger warnings that I do want to mention for other readers. Cancer is mentioned several times and many characters have been affected by it in the past. There is also a homosexual couple in this book. They are side characters, but their relationship is part of the story that could make some readers uncomfortable.
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book through Netgalley. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 27, 2026
I may be new to this author’s work, but after this experience, I am officially hooked and plan on binging their entire backlist! Could’ve Fooled Me was a spectacular first impression.
The chemistry between Sarah and Carter was incredible; it practically leapt off the pages. While their story begins as a classic marriage of convenience, it quickly evolves into a match made in heaven. Carter is the ultimate thoughtful 'softie'—his character depth really shines through. The story behind the penny 🥺; it was a beautiful, poignant representation of why we shouldn't bottle up our emotions.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC
The chemistry between Sarah and Carter was incredible; it practically leapt off the pages. While their story begins as a classic marriage of convenience, it quickly evolves into a match made in heaven. Carter is the ultimate thoughtful 'softie'—his character depth really shines through. The story behind the penny 🥺; it was a beautiful, poignant representation of why we shouldn't bottle up our emotions.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC
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