He’s the team’s goalie. She’s the team owner’s little sister. Faking it was supposed to be safe… until it wasn’t.
Their fake dating plan was supposed to be simple — a way to help each other out, nothing more. No feelings. No risks. No crossing lines. But every fake smile feels too real, and every kiss meant to fool the world only fools them instead. Because somewhere between pretending and wanting, they stopped playing it safe. And when the line between fake and real finally blurs, falling for each other might just be the biggest penalty of all.
Safe Selection was one of those reads that completely pulled me in and didn’t let go.
Celina Trotzki does an incredible job creating tension that simmers beneath the surface and slowly tightens as the story unfolds. What starts off feeling controlled and almost methodical quickly turns unsettling in the best way. The psychological elements were especially strong—I kept questioning characters’ motives and second-guessing what I thought I knew.
The pacing was spot on. There were no wasted moments, and each chapter added another layer of unease. I loved how the story didn’t rely on cheap shock value but instead built suspense through atmosphere, subtle details, and emotional stakes.
What really stood out to me was how immersive the world felt. You can sense the author’s intention behind every choice, and it made the story feel purposeful rather than rushed. By the end, I was both satisfied and slightly shaken—which, honestly, is exactly what I want from a book like this.
If you enjoy dark, thought-provoking stories with psychological tension and morally gray moments, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
I think this is the best book in the series! While this isn’t my favorite series from this author, this book truly takes it to the next level.
The plot is engaging, the pacing works well, and the twist makes sense to me. Em’s reaction feels believable, she’s young and clearly driven by a need to prove herself, so I can understand why she reacts the way she does. Dylan also isn’t the type of character who would immediately clear things up, so the twist didn’t negatively affect my overall opinion.
The dynamic between the characters, both as friends and as a couple, is really interesting and refreshing to see. I could feel their tension, and the buildup of the storyline was well done. I have to admit, I was pulling my hair out during some moments and giggling during others, which is exactly what I want when I’m reading a book.
Overall, this is a really strong entry in the series!
Thank you, Celina, for this arc and the opportunity to read this in advance!
I like how the author pair the characters up together, both in somehow uncomfortable situations and mutually agrees to benefit from their arrangement. Which supposed to direct and simple. But not. That "uncomfortable" to feel comfortable with each other built up the narrative and eventually lead them to learn more about each other and navigates things around them - i think this is a good way to build up an unforgettable story, and im happy it ends with a HEA. Thank you for the ARC opportunity.