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Babes of Brewing #4
Worst Faking Idea
** Spicy version **
Their secret fake relationship began with a little white lie...
Nora
My ginger beer brewery is, quite literally, my life.
Unfortunately, my male business partner's new fiancée is insanely jealous. It's only a matter of time before she forces him to quit, which means we'll both lose the business we love.
So I ask him what will get her to back down.
A boyfriend.
I make one up, telling her it's too early to introduce him, which works right up until she walks in on a heated private conversation between me and Cormac, my soon-to-be stepbrother.
She comes to a wild the reason I'm keeping my boyfriend secret is because it's him.
I know I should set her straight. Cormac is the last person I'd ever date, and not just because our parents are about to get married. He's awkward, introverted, and has the people skills of a houseplant.
But I'm desperate enough to tell the worst lie ever.
Cormac
Nora makes me an offer any sane man would refuse.
She wants me to be her secret fake boyfriend–an act that only has to work on two people.
In exchange, she promises to help me brush up my dating skills.
It doesn't seem like much of a bargain, to be honest. She's been prickly since high school and isn't much of a charmer herself, but I agree because I've promised my father I'll try to get along with her.
But the more time Nora and I spend together, the more I realize that I'd like our secret fake relationship to be real.
** A standalone romcom in the Babes of Brewing series. **
There are TWO different versions of this
1) A spicy, open door version with some strong language and sex scenes
2) A closed door version with mild language and only kissing.
Please choose the version that's best for you!
Their secret fake relationship began with a little white lie...
Nora
My ginger beer brewery is, quite literally, my life.
Unfortunately, my male business partner's new fiancée is insanely jealous. It's only a matter of time before she forces him to quit, which means we'll both lose the business we love.
So I ask him what will get her to back down.
A boyfriend.
I make one up, telling her it's too early to introduce him, which works right up until she walks in on a heated private conversation between me and Cormac, my soon-to-be stepbrother.
She comes to a wild the reason I'm keeping my boyfriend secret is because it's him.
I know I should set her straight. Cormac is the last person I'd ever date, and not just because our parents are about to get married. He's awkward, introverted, and has the people skills of a houseplant.
But I'm desperate enough to tell the worst lie ever.
Cormac
Nora makes me an offer any sane man would refuse.
She wants me to be her secret fake boyfriend–an act that only has to work on two people.
In exchange, she promises to help me brush up my dating skills.
It doesn't seem like much of a bargain, to be honest. She's been prickly since high school and isn't much of a charmer herself, but I agree because I've promised my father I'll try to get along with her.
But the more time Nora and I spend together, the more I realize that I'd like our secret fake relationship to be real.
** A standalone romcom in the Babes of Brewing series. **
There are TWO different versions of this
1) A spicy, open door version with some strong language and sex scenes
2) A closed door version with mild language and only kissing.
Please choose the version that's best for you!
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2026
About the author
Angela Casella
45 books847 followersANGELA CASELLA lives in Asheville, North Carolina with her husband, her daughter, and their ill-behaved corgi in an extremely small bungalow. She spends her days writing and pretending to market. She writes solo romcoms and also has three co-written series with Denise Grover Swank.
You can subscribe to her newsletter for exclusive free content and updates on her projects! http://subscribepage.io/AngelaCasella...
You can subscribe to her newsletter for exclusive free content and updates on her projects! http://subscribepage.io/AngelaCasella...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
May 14, 2026
4🌟, 3🌶️
Nora and Cormac were, without a doubt, my favorite couple in the entire series.
Their banter was sharp, funny, and completely effortless. The fake dating setup was such a fun way to bring them together, and I loved how their slow-burn chemistry gradually turned into something undeniable.
What I loved most was the vulnerability beneath all their teasing. Both Nora and Cormac carried insecurities from their pasts, and it was incredibly satisfying to watch them find comfort and acceptance in each other. Cormac was thoughtful, steady, and quietly swoon-worthy, while Nora’s journey felt honest and heartfelt.
This book was the perfect send-off to this cozy world. Between the brewery, the wonderful side characters, and a romance that was equal parts sweet and spicy, I finished with the biggest smile on my face.
Their story left me with the biggest smile and made me want to reread the whole series all over again.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Angela Casella & The Author Agency for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
Nora and Cormac were, without a doubt, my favorite couple in the entire series.
Their banter was sharp, funny, and completely effortless. The fake dating setup was such a fun way to bring them together, and I loved how their slow-burn chemistry gradually turned into something undeniable.
What I loved most was the vulnerability beneath all their teasing. Both Nora and Cormac carried insecurities from their pasts, and it was incredibly satisfying to watch them find comfort and acceptance in each other. Cormac was thoughtful, steady, and quietly swoon-worthy, while Nora’s journey felt honest and heartfelt.
This book was the perfect send-off to this cozy world. Between the brewery, the wonderful side characters, and a romance that was equal parts sweet and spicy, I finished with the biggest smile on my face.
Their story left me with the biggest smile and made me want to reread the whole series all over again.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Angela Casella & The Author Agency for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
May 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Ok so this book was super cute. I am a sucker for the fake dating trope and I think that wasn’t even my favorite part of this book by Angela Casella.
I loved how Cormac was always looking out for Nora. Making sure that she was just DONE being taken advantage of or walked all over. He knew that Nora was IT for him. I also ADORED Dottie and Ann and the Fairy Godmother chat group they had 😂 They gave him all the tips and tricks on how to win the girl and even made him get some super sexy slutty glasses. Slutty glasses is my favorite micro trope now for real.
Nora is having some struggles with the brewery due to Jose’s fiancée, Pansy. And boy, did she add some good drama to the story or what! I loved all her scheming and you love to hate Pansy in this one and watch her downfall. It was so satisfying. Nora, however, was really hard for me to enjoy. She had so much going on in this book that you couldn’t really feel the connection between her and Cormac. Plus, there was the fact that they were recently officially step brother and step sister. Skirting around that issue just had me all stressed out lol.
Either way, I would recommend this book especially if you’re following along with the series!
Tropes✨
🤫 (Secret) Fake Relationship
😡 Reunited with High School Nemesis
🧲 Opposites Attract
🤓 Hot Nerd Hero
🙋🏻♂️ He Falls First
😣 Horrible Double Dates
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Angela Casella for this opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review!
Ok so this book was super cute. I am a sucker for the fake dating trope and I think that wasn’t even my favorite part of this book by Angela Casella.
I loved how Cormac was always looking out for Nora. Making sure that she was just DONE being taken advantage of or walked all over. He knew that Nora was IT for him. I also ADORED Dottie and Ann and the Fairy Godmother chat group they had 😂 They gave him all the tips and tricks on how to win the girl and even made him get some super sexy slutty glasses. Slutty glasses is my favorite micro trope now for real.
Nora is having some struggles with the brewery due to Jose’s fiancée, Pansy. And boy, did she add some good drama to the story or what! I loved all her scheming and you love to hate Pansy in this one and watch her downfall. It was so satisfying. Nora, however, was really hard for me to enjoy. She had so much going on in this book that you couldn’t really feel the connection between her and Cormac. Plus, there was the fact that they were recently officially step brother and step sister. Skirting around that issue just had me all stressed out lol.
Either way, I would recommend this book especially if you’re following along with the series!
Tropes✨
🤫 (Secret) Fake Relationship
😡 Reunited with High School Nemesis
🧲 Opposites Attract
🤓 Hot Nerd Hero
🙋🏻♂️ He Falls First
😣 Horrible Double Dates
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Angela Casella for this opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review!
May 19, 2026
In the last book in the Babes of Brewing series, Nora owns a brewery with one of her good friends, Jose. However, his girlfriend doesn’t like their working relationship. Nora needs a fake relationship and fast to keep her brewery. Literally, in walks her soon-to-be stepbrother & high school nemesis, Cormac to help fend off this jealous partner’s girlfriend. In return, Nora gives Cormac some spicy dating lessons & promises to sit his super energetic corgi, Cookie. Trust me, this is an adventure that you don’t want to miss!!!!
I absolutely loved the Babes of Brewing Series! Nora & Cormac’s story tie in perfectly! The enemies to lovers turn into a fake relationship with spicy lessons and the yearning between the hot nerd & leading lady is completely worth a read. I loved the little final blow to Jonah who helped to start this whole series off! I also enjoyed that each side character had their part in bringing Cormac and Nora together, especially Cookie, Ann & Nathaniel! This story has romance, is hilarious & is the perfect way to end this series!
I absolutely loved the Babes of Brewing Series! Nora & Cormac’s story tie in perfectly! The enemies to lovers turn into a fake relationship with spicy lessons and the yearning between the hot nerd & leading lady is completely worth a read. I loved the little final blow to Jonah who helped to start this whole series off! I also enjoyed that each side character had their part in bringing Cormac and Nora together, especially Cookie, Ann & Nathaniel! This story has romance, is hilarious & is the perfect way to end this series!
May 15, 2026
3.5⭐️
This was a cute read! I went in knowing this was a part of a series, but it made for a decent standalone, with minimal confusion as far as the other established characters go.
For me, this started off really strong, but sadly lost a bit of its luster as the story progressed. However, I found Nora to be a hilarious and lovable FMC, which really brought so much spunk to the reading experience. It felt a bit longer than it needed to be, as some of the sub-plots were a tad drawn out. Was really hoping to see some more resolution as far as Pansy was concerned, as she was a big part of the plot from the start. The spice was tasteful and not overly spicy. Overall, it was a cute, funny, and entertaining read!
Thank you to Hambright PR for the advanced eARC❤️
This was a cute read! I went in knowing this was a part of a series, but it made for a decent standalone, with minimal confusion as far as the other established characters go.
For me, this started off really strong, but sadly lost a bit of its luster as the story progressed. However, I found Nora to be a hilarious and lovable FMC, which really brought so much spunk to the reading experience. It felt a bit longer than it needed to be, as some of the sub-plots were a tad drawn out. Was really hoping to see some more resolution as far as Pansy was concerned, as she was a big part of the plot from the start. The spice was tasteful and not overly spicy. Overall, it was a cute, funny, and entertaining read!
Thank you to Hambright PR for the advanced eARC❤️
Did Not Finish
May 6, 2026Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the ARC, I truly appreciate the opportunity to read and give my honest review.
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t for me. I made it to about 20% before deciding to put it down, mainly because it leaned much more young adult. While the characters are in their early 20s, they came across significantly younger in both their actions and the overall dynamic. The situation that leads to the fake relationship felt a bit too immature for my personal taste.
That said, if you enjoy a lighter, more youthful tone with a fake dating trope, this could be a fun read for you.
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t for me. I made it to about 20% before deciding to put it down, mainly because it leaned much more young adult. While the characters are in their early 20s, they came across significantly younger in both their actions and the overall dynamic. The situation that leads to the fake relationship felt a bit too immature for my personal taste.
That said, if you enjoy a lighter, more youthful tone with a fake dating trope, this could be a fun read for you.
May 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was such a fun surprise. I went in expecting a light fake dating romcom and ended up getting something much more heartfelt and emotional than I expected.
Nora and Cormac had the best chaotic chemistry from the very beginning, and I loved watching the tension slowly build while they both tried to pretend none of it meant anything. The banter was sharp, the double dates were painfully hilarious, and the slow realization that maybe their “fake” relationship wasn’t actually fake anymore had me completely hooked.
Cormac absolutely stole the show for me. He was awkward, nerdy, sweet, and completely gone for Nora from the start in the most lovable way possible. And yes, the glasses definitely made him even better.
I also loved that this book comes in both a sweet/closed-door version and a spicy/open-door version so readers can choose the experience that fits them best. Such a fun and unique idea.
Beyond the romance, the found family moments and matchmaking elderly ladies added so much charm and warmth to the story. And the corgi honestly deserves its own shoutout because it was iconic.
This was funny, comforting, romantic, and surprisingly emotional in all the best ways. Definitely one of those romcoms that leaves you smiling while reading.
Tropes:
Fake dating
Hot nerd MMC
He falls first
Opposites attract
Found family
Romcom banter
Matchmaking elderly ladies
Iconic corgi
Spice: Available in both closed-door and open-door versions.
This book was such a fun surprise. I went in expecting a light fake dating romcom and ended up getting something much more heartfelt and emotional than I expected.
Nora and Cormac had the best chaotic chemistry from the very beginning, and I loved watching the tension slowly build while they both tried to pretend none of it meant anything. The banter was sharp, the double dates were painfully hilarious, and the slow realization that maybe their “fake” relationship wasn’t actually fake anymore had me completely hooked.
Cormac absolutely stole the show for me. He was awkward, nerdy, sweet, and completely gone for Nora from the start in the most lovable way possible. And yes, the glasses definitely made him even better.
I also loved that this book comes in both a sweet/closed-door version and a spicy/open-door version so readers can choose the experience that fits them best. Such a fun and unique idea.
Beyond the romance, the found family moments and matchmaking elderly ladies added so much charm and warmth to the story. And the corgi honestly deserves its own shoutout because it was iconic.
This was funny, comforting, romantic, and surprisingly emotional in all the best ways. Definitely one of those romcoms that leaves you smiling while reading.
Tropes:
Fake dating
Hot nerd MMC
He falls first
Opposites attract
Found family
Romcom banter
Matchmaking elderly ladies
Iconic corgi
Spice: Available in both closed-door and open-door versions.
May 11, 2026
Nora is the ginger beer babe, aka one of the four women who were unbeknownst to them involved with the same duplicitous (quadplicitous?) man. It’s been a while since the revelation, and while we’d met the other three women on their journey, we probably know Nora the least. While she was deceived by the same man, her feelings toward him weren’t as intense as the other ladies.
As this book opens, Nora’s mother is marrying her high school nemesis’s father, and at the same time, her business partner Jose’s fiancée has been trying to push Nora out of the partnership, apparently since she and Jose dated briefly before quickly deciding they were much better off as friends and business associates. Casting about for a way to keep her position, Nora creates a fake boyfriend of her own, but when that falls through none other than her new stepbrother bails her out by pretending to be involved with Nora, albeit on the DL so their parents aren’t shocked.
Of course, Cormac is painfully handsome and brilliant, but an inability to read social cues makes his interactions with the brash, funny, and socially intrepid Nora extremely awkward and prone to misinterpretation. However, as the pair spend time together, their mutual admiration grows, and it’s not long before their fake embraces become all too real. Nora, however, fears that deep down she’s like her own duplicitous father, and tries to give Cormac up to spare him what she’s certain is future heartache. Through it all, the pair must conceal from their parents any relationship they have with each other, real or fake.
I enjoyed this so much, as an end to the Asheville-set series, and I love that Falling for Mr October gets its two main love interests from a side quest contained in this novel, kicking off a new series itself. Angela Casella is an auto buy for me, and this didn’t disappoint. Nora and Cormac are adorable - and steamy - together, and Cookie the corgi is the cherry on top.
I was fortunate to have received an advance reader copy, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
As this book opens, Nora’s mother is marrying her high school nemesis’s father, and at the same time, her business partner Jose’s fiancée has been trying to push Nora out of the partnership, apparently since she and Jose dated briefly before quickly deciding they were much better off as friends and business associates. Casting about for a way to keep her position, Nora creates a fake boyfriend of her own, but when that falls through none other than her new stepbrother bails her out by pretending to be involved with Nora, albeit on the DL so their parents aren’t shocked.
Of course, Cormac is painfully handsome and brilliant, but an inability to read social cues makes his interactions with the brash, funny, and socially intrepid Nora extremely awkward and prone to misinterpretation. However, as the pair spend time together, their mutual admiration grows, and it’s not long before their fake embraces become all too real. Nora, however, fears that deep down she’s like her own duplicitous father, and tries to give Cormac up to spare him what she’s certain is future heartache. Through it all, the pair must conceal from their parents any relationship they have with each other, real or fake.
I enjoyed this so much, as an end to the Asheville-set series, and I love that Falling for Mr October gets its two main love interests from a side quest contained in this novel, kicking off a new series itself. Angela Casella is an auto buy for me, and this didn’t disappoint. Nora and Cormac are adorable - and steamy - together, and Cookie the corgi is the cherry on top.
I was fortunate to have received an advance reader copy, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.
May 17, 2026
Book Title: Worst Faking Idea (Babes of Brewing Book 4)
Author: Angela Casella
Publisher: Self (independent)
Pub Date: May 14, 2026
Dates Read/Listened: May 5, 2026 – May 16, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔(𝚒𝚜𝚑) 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: I don’t normally like to read a series out of order, but Worst Faking Idea made me do it, and I don’t regret it. I will say you get some spoilers for the first 3 books, but it honestly made me want to read them more, and you better believe I will be doing that. This was a laugh-out-loud funny read, and I adored the characters and Cormac’s cute corgi! I chose the spicy version of the book, and I thought it was blended in perfectly. It didn’t come into play until further into the story and really matched what was going on with Nora and Cormac’s fake relationship. Fake dating is my favorite trope, and it was executed so well in this novel. I loved Casella’s writing, and it flowed as effortlessly as the banter. The characters felt so undeniably real, and if you love romance, I am telling you this is a must-read! I can’t wait to read more from this author and more of the series. Instant fan here. 🙋🏼♀️
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🐕🤖🫚🍺🤥
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️🌶️.5 + 🍦
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Author: Angela Casella
Publisher: Self (independent)
Pub Date: May 14, 2026
Dates Read/Listened: May 5, 2026 – May 16, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔(𝚒𝚜𝚑) 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: I don’t normally like to read a series out of order, but Worst Faking Idea made me do it, and I don’t regret it. I will say you get some spoilers for the first 3 books, but it honestly made me want to read them more, and you better believe I will be doing that. This was a laugh-out-loud funny read, and I adored the characters and Cormac’s cute corgi! I chose the spicy version of the book, and I thought it was blended in perfectly. It didn’t come into play until further into the story and really matched what was going on with Nora and Cormac’s fake relationship. Fake dating is my favorite trope, and it was executed so well in this novel. I loved Casella’s writing, and it flowed as effortlessly as the banter. The characters felt so undeniably real, and if you love romance, I am telling you this is a must-read! I can’t wait to read more from this author and more of the series. Instant fan here. 🙋🏼♀️
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🐕🤖🫚🍺🤥
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌶️🌶️.5 + 🍦
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 6, 2026
I loved how this book is available in two version: a spicy version with full open door spice and a closed door version. I chose the spicy version and spice it not, I absolutely adored it. There’s nothing I love more than a yearner mmc who’s desperately trying to confess to a totally oblivious fmc. They’ve known each other since high school, and at the start it seems like they hate each other, but oh it’s much more than that, it’s pure yearning and childhood love (this man literally followed her around with puppy dog eyes but she didn’t even notice). And the seven minutes in heaven thing? Girl has liked him longer than she thinks but won’t admit it. Now suddenly they’re in a fake dating relationship (that he’s totally trying to make real) to expose her friend Jose’s terrible fiancée. And to make it even more taboo, they’re now step siblings because of their newly married parents. This book was full of so much fun and sweet moments, he literally consults advice from fortune telling “little old ladies”. Nora and Cormac are the sweetest and most chaotic couple ever. But it was also so endearing, because both of them come from families with estranged parents and didn’t really believe in love, yet Cormac spends so long trying to convince Nora that they deserve love. Now here is where I convince you to read the spicy version because this man may seem like a sweet, awkward, nerdy boy on the outside, but that man is a FREAK in the sheets. Point one, he wears freaking GLASSES and nothing is hotter than a man stopping in the middle of making out to take off his glasses. Point two, the things this man does with ice cream?? Yeah I think that’s reason enough because it was HOT. So please read this book, it’s spicy but also has an amazing plot (with some great plot twists, and characters that will make you swoon so hard. I give this a 5/5
May 14, 2026
Worst Faking Idea is the fourth book in the Babes of Brewing Series- it's fun, it's spicy and it did not disappoint!
As with the other books in this series, the author offers you the spicy or sweet version. I will always take the spice, thank you!
Nora and Cormac are such a sweet and unique couple. They struggled with some really uncomfortable + awkward situations back in high school and here they are, being forced to face the awkwardness, when their parents, Moira Applebaum and Eugene Peebles, fall in love and get married. Pretty awful, right? To add to that drama , Nora is in the middle of a financial/ownership issue with her brewery which she runs with (Jose) her best friend, once boyfriend, and his fiancé (Pansy) does not love the arrangement. Let the fun continue when Nora decides to ask Cormac to be her fake boyfriend to try and run Pansy off because she doesn't want to lose her brewery + she knows that Pansy is legit not a good person. SO MUCH ENTERTAINING CHAOS + DRAMA!! I love how all the character's stories come together in this fourth book. We get some answers and justice when it comes to Jonah- the terrible ex who is responsible for bringing all the brewery girls together, and we get all the happy endings that will never get old!
Cormac is the BEST! He will have you pulling for him from the beginning. I honestly don't think there was one single time in the story that I didn't think he was wonderful! He's a little nerdy- with the glasses that make him a lot good-looking- and he and Nora have amazing chemistry, especially during those moments when they forget they're pretending. This little gem is out TODAY, and I highly recommend you getting this on your TBR, especially if you have enjoyed the other books in this series: Best Served Cold (Sophie + Rob), Worst Nanny Ever (Hannah + Travis) and Best Kind of Trouble (Brian + Liam).
Big THANK YOU! to author, Angela Casella and Hambright PR for this gifted, advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
As with the other books in this series, the author offers you the spicy or sweet version. I will always take the spice, thank you!
Nora and Cormac are such a sweet and unique couple. They struggled with some really uncomfortable + awkward situations back in high school and here they are, being forced to face the awkwardness, when their parents, Moira Applebaum and Eugene Peebles, fall in love and get married. Pretty awful, right? To add to that drama , Nora is in the middle of a financial/ownership issue with her brewery which she runs with (Jose) her best friend, once boyfriend, and his fiancé (Pansy) does not love the arrangement. Let the fun continue when Nora decides to ask Cormac to be her fake boyfriend to try and run Pansy off because she doesn't want to lose her brewery + she knows that Pansy is legit not a good person. SO MUCH ENTERTAINING CHAOS + DRAMA!! I love how all the character's stories come together in this fourth book. We get some answers and justice when it comes to Jonah- the terrible ex who is responsible for bringing all the brewery girls together, and we get all the happy endings that will never get old!
Cormac is the BEST! He will have you pulling for him from the beginning. I honestly don't think there was one single time in the story that I didn't think he was wonderful! He's a little nerdy- with the glasses that make him a lot good-looking- and he and Nora have amazing chemistry, especially during those moments when they forget they're pretending. This little gem is out TODAY, and I highly recommend you getting this on your TBR, especially if you have enjoyed the other books in this series: Best Served Cold (Sophie + Rob), Worst Nanny Ever (Hannah + Travis) and Best Kind of Trouble (Brian + Liam).
Big THANK YOU! to author, Angela Casella and Hambright PR for this gifted, advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
May 15, 2026
This is the fourth and final book in this awesome series, and this is Nora and Cormac’s story.
These two had a crush on each other in high school, and they are about to become stepsiblings, as Nora’s mother is marrying Cormac’s dad. Nora’s ginger beer brewing company is her like, but she is on the brink of losing it, due to her partner’s jealous girlfriend, so she agrees to get herself a boyfriend, and Nora finds herself convincing Cormac to be her fake boyfriend.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn romcom, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, fake dating, secrets, tad suspense, opposites attract, enemies / lovers, matchmaking, romance, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and fun, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
These two had a crush on each other in high school, and they are about to become stepsiblings, as Nora’s mother is marrying Cormac’s dad. Nora’s ginger beer brewing company is her like, but she is on the brink of losing it, due to her partner’s jealous girlfriend, so she agrees to get herself a boyfriend, and Nora finds herself convincing Cormac to be her fake boyfriend.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn romcom, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, fake dating, secrets, tad suspense, opposites attract, enemies / lovers, matchmaking, romance, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and fun, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 1, 2026
omg I’m OBSESSED with this book. I did not expect to love it so much. I knew it had fake dating which is an all time fave, but when I started this I was immediately pulled in. Right off the bat, I was intrigued by the characters and their stories. I literally finished this so quickly and found myself trying to pick this up to read any chance I got.
Cormac I loved him so much. He’s literally a hot nerd that has been in love with this girl for years. The way he yearns for her??? I was SOLD. Nora is such a strong and funny fmc, I loved her personality. And them both together ugh I couldn’t get enough. They had the best banter and chemistry.
I’m literally so obsessed with this book that now I want to go back and read the other books in the series.
Thank you so much to Hambright PR for providing me with the opportunity to read this arc.
Cormac I loved him so much. He’s literally a hot nerd that has been in love with this girl for years. The way he yearns for her??? I was SOLD. Nora is such a strong and funny fmc, I loved her personality. And them both together ugh I couldn’t get enough. They had the best banter and chemistry.
I’m literally so obsessed with this book that now I want to go back and read the other books in the series.
Thank you so much to Hambright PR for providing me with the opportunity to read this arc.
May 14, 2026
I absolutely LOVED this book! Everything about Cormac made him the perfect MMC! He honestly just kept getting better with every single chapter. I adored how gentle he was with Nora and he truly understood her heart and never made her feel like she needed to be less
The side characters were honestly some of my favorites as well… Ann and Dottie provided the perfect comic relief throughout the story. If you’re looking for an addictive romcom, this is the one for you. Worst Faking Idea released today, and one of the coolest things about this release is that it caters to every reader: there’s a spicy open door version AND a closed door version! Make sure to grab the one that fits your preference!
Thank you to Hambright PR and Angela Casella for allowing me to read this ARC!
The side characters were honestly some of my favorites as well… Ann and Dottie provided the perfect comic relief throughout the story. If you’re looking for an addictive romcom, this is the one for you. Worst Faking Idea released today, and one of the coolest things about this release is that it caters to every reader: there’s a spicy open door version AND a closed door version! Make sure to grab the one that fits your preference!
Thank you to Hambright PR and Angela Casella for allowing me to read this ARC!
May 15, 2026
Thank you to Angela Casella and Hambright PR for the advanced reader copy of Worst Faking Idea, book four in the Babes in Brewing series.
I absolutely LOVED this book. Fake dating is my all time favorite trope and this DELIVERED. Cormac is wonderfully awkward and nerdy and Nora is wild and free spirited. There is pining and yearning and so many fun adventures and silly antics.
I didn’t think a man with a name like Cormac Peebles could become one of my ultimate book boyfriends, but honestly he is exceptional. And his quirky Corgi named Cookie with her antics were just the icing on the cake!
This book was full of wonderfully quirky characters and friends that are family. The spice was perfectly sprinkled in and done well, the banter was excellent!
The most SOLID 5 stars from me!
I absolutely LOVED this book. Fake dating is my all time favorite trope and this DELIVERED. Cormac is wonderfully awkward and nerdy and Nora is wild and free spirited. There is pining and yearning and so many fun adventures and silly antics.
I didn’t think a man with a name like Cormac Peebles could become one of my ultimate book boyfriends, but honestly he is exceptional. And his quirky Corgi named Cookie with her antics were just the icing on the cake!
This book was full of wonderfully quirky characters and friends that are family. The spice was perfectly sprinkled in and done well, the banter was excellent!
The most SOLID 5 stars from me!
May 11, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Well that was such a good time! I absolutely loved Cormac-he’s such a green flag!! A super sweet, thoughtful, and nerdy guy! This was my first book by this author and I didn’t realize it was part of a series so I will definitely be going back to read the other ones. This was so funny, sweet, and spicy. I had a great time! My favorite parts:
💕 Great banter
💕 The insane Corgi named Cookie
💕 Cormac’s slutty glasses and how nerdy he was
💕 The Fairy Godmothers group chat
💕 Fake dating (turns out I love this trope)
Well that was such a good time! I absolutely loved Cormac-he’s such a green flag!! A super sweet, thoughtful, and nerdy guy! This was my first book by this author and I didn’t realize it was part of a series so I will definitely be going back to read the other ones. This was so funny, sweet, and spicy. I had a great time! My favorite parts:
💕 Great banter
💕 The insane Corgi named Cookie
💕 Cormac’s slutty glasses and how nerdy he was
💕 The Fairy Godmothers group chat
💕 Fake dating (turns out I love this trope)
May 15, 2026
I was hoping we’d get a book focused on Cormac! He’s absolutely brilliant and you can tell he’s neurodivergent. I loved his introduction in the previous book from the series. He’s soft, supportive, brilliant, blunt, and loyal. Nora is successful, dedicated, strong willed and healing.I loved the slow burn between them. It stems back to their childhood. I’m still cackling at Pansy and her Pads 😂. Her antics were wild and entertaining. This one is so fun! Thank you Hambright and Angela Casella for this Arc! Happy Pub Day! 💜
May 18, 2026
4 ⭐️ ARC review from Hambright PR & Angela.
Do you love:
💜 fake dating
🩷 step siblings
💜 dog dad
🩷 golden retriever MMC
💜 Rom Com vibes
This is your book. Nora will do anything to save her business including fake dating her newly step brother to ensure her best friend doesn’t sell due to his crazy finance. Cormac is giving golden retriever energy- will do anything for her, falls hard and honestly such a fabulous man! The banter is sweet, the spice was good and honestly if you love Rom Coms this is your next read 🥰
#HPRWorstFakingIdea
#AngelaCasella
#HambrightPR
Do you love:
💜 fake dating
🩷 step siblings
💜 dog dad
🩷 golden retriever MMC
💜 Rom Com vibes
This is your book. Nora will do anything to save her business including fake dating her newly step brother to ensure her best friend doesn’t sell due to his crazy finance. Cormac is giving golden retriever energy- will do anything for her, falls hard and honestly such a fabulous man! The banter is sweet, the spice was good and honestly if you love Rom Coms this is your next read 🥰
#HPRWorstFakingIdea
#AngelaCasella
#HambrightPR
May 22, 2026
Cormac and Nora made an interesting couple. The fake relationship was a definite stretch and it worked, for the most part.
The back story of their HS years, the long standing feud, the banter, all good. It was referenced many times that Cormac might be autistic. To me, he seemed more like Monk. OCD, definitely. He quickly learned how to better interact with others and pick up more social cues.
Nora was less organized as a character, possibly by design. She grew on me though.
I enjoyed the story. Happy all the friends, apart from Mick,found their forever loves.
I am very excited to see we have more Cafiero‘s on the horizon. Bring on the shirtless Chef Giovanni!
The back story of their HS years, the long standing feud, the banter, all good. It was referenced many times that Cormac might be autistic. To me, he seemed more like Monk. OCD, definitely. He quickly learned how to better interact with others and pick up more social cues.
Nora was less organized as a character, possibly by design. She grew on me though.
I enjoyed the story. Happy all the friends, apart from Mick,found their forever loves.
I am very excited to see we have more Cafiero‘s on the horizon. Bring on the shirtless Chef Giovanni!
May 17, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I enjoyed the rom com aspect a lot. Dottie and Ann were hilarious. I do feel it could have been spicer but I did appreciate having the option on whether or not I wanted the spice at all. I ABSOLUTELY loved Cormac and the fact that he was more than likely on the spectrum (we don’t have many characters like that). The subplot with Ann was sweet but also confusing because I wasn’t sure it was necessary. Overall it was a pretty good read though 🫶🏼📚
Thank you to HambrightPR for the ARC 🖤
I enjoyed the rom com aspect a lot. Dottie and Ann were hilarious. I do feel it could have been spicer but I did appreciate having the option on whether or not I wanted the spice at all. I ABSOLUTELY loved Cormac and the fact that he was more than likely on the spectrum (we don’t have many characters like that). The subplot with Ann was sweet but also confusing because I wasn’t sure it was necessary. Overall it was a pretty good read though 🫶🏼📚
Thank you to HambrightPR for the ARC 🖤
May 20, 2026
OMG I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!
I’ve loved Angela Casella’s books ever since I read “worst nanny ever” and she really outdid herself with Worst Faking Idea
I adored Cormac and Nora; he’s such a sweetheart and she’s so feisty (his exact opposite) but they were absolutely perfect for each other 🥹🥹🥹
The plot was fantastic, it was such a fun read and I had such a great time with it
Angela Casella definitely writes the best rom coms and I highly recommend her Babes of Brewing series ❤️
I’ve loved Angela Casella’s books ever since I read “worst nanny ever” and she really outdid herself with Worst Faking Idea
I adored Cormac and Nora; he’s such a sweetheart and she’s so feisty (his exact opposite) but they were absolutely perfect for each other 🥹🥹🥹
The plot was fantastic, it was such a fun read and I had such a great time with it
Angela Casella definitely writes the best rom coms and I highly recommend her Babes of Brewing series ❤️
May 23, 2026
Great conclusion to the Babes in Brewing series! It was nice to see Nora and Cormac come together to get their HEA. Their story is sweet and spicy and there are lots of laughs too, as well as some suspense with the Pansy situation. Also look for a reappearance of Jonah (with a satisfying conclusion!) I thought the plot and characters were well developed and it was nice seeing the couples from the earlier books in the series. This book can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the series in order for the best experience. It’s a great series.
May 18, 2026
Super cute. The whole series. I really enjoy this author and how she writes her characters. This one had an opposites attract, fake-dating theme with fantastic banter. (I also love that there’s a spicy & non-spicy version available.)
May 15, 2026
Note: I read the spicy version. Why wouldn’t I??
Worst Faking Idea by author Angela Casella is the perfect ending to her delightful Babes of Brewing series. It all began when the four women Jonah Price was dating – yes, four of them, yes, all at one time, and he was even engaged to one of them – found out about each other. Four very different women, but all with a connection to different breweries in Asheville, NC. Go figure. Sophie, Hannah, and Briar hit it off right away and found they had more in common than that douchebag. They exposed him for the cad he was and poked a big hole in his perfect world. Sophie, Hannah, and Briar all found their actually perfect-for-them men in Rob (Jonah’s half-brother), Travis and Liam (Hannah’s brother). But Nora, the fourth woman in Jonah’s little scheme, just wanted to hide with her humiliation. This was just one more thing in her life that made her feel like a failure. She was hard to track down, but by the start of Worst Faking Idea she is fast friends with Sophie, Hannah, and Briar.
And then there’s Cormac, Nora’s old nemesis from high school. Another source of humiliation she would just like to forget; the one person who could always instantly make her feel dumber than dirt. But thanks to author Casella and her skillful way of creating more six-degrees-of-separation situations than you can count Nora and Cormac are going to be seeing a lot of each other starting right now. Because Nora’s mother is marrying Cormac’s father. And those two older folks are so head-over-heels mushily in love that you couldn’t keep them apart if you wanted to. And Nora and Cormac do want their parents to be happy after the loneliness they endured.
So Nora and Cormac agree to call a truce and try to get along when they need to make an appearance at their parents’ house. Won’t be easy but they can do it. What’s going to be harder to pull off, though, is to pretend to be romantically involved and convince everyone it’s real after Cormac agrees to be her fake boyfriend to convince her business partner his girlfriend is up to no good.
But wait, maybe there won’t be as much pretending as you might expect. Here’s where another of author Casella’s little skills come into play; in addition to all those intriguing connections where everybody is connected to everybody else, there is also a wealth of feelings and desires and forgotten or misunderstood experiences just under the surface, and watching those “Aha!” moments as they float to the top little by little is so entertaining and so much fun.
The more time Nora and Cormac spend together the more they acknowledge – at least to themselves in the beginning – that they enjoy being with each other. Nora always felt that Cormac was judging her and finding her lacking, that he was repulsed and disgusted by her, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Nerdy, neurodivergent Cormac had a crush on her plenty of reasons for his actions that seemed logical to him, but they somehow never came out quite right. It is achingly sweet seeing them tiptoe slowly, hesitantly down a path of understanding.
Everything about this book will delight you. Cormac is adorable, his dog Cookie is adorable even if a little wacky, Nora is strong and capable and most definitely not a failure. Their friends are in their corner, upfront and working behind the scenes. Watching them initially try to keep their relationship from their parents is hilarious. The ladies at the tea shop are determined to give Cormac all the advice he needs to woo his lady. And there is so much more – a suspenseful plot expertly woven in with the romance and the laughter and the heat. Spicy means spicy, and you will love it. I received an advance copy of Worst Faking Idea. I laughed out loud, teared up, swooned and had to blink at some of the spicy stuff. I recommend it and this entire series without hesitation and cannot wait to see what great reads Casella gives us next. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Just a note: this is book #4 in the Babes of Brewing series. While each book can absolutely be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the entire series because they’re all just so much fun.
My Thoughts:
There’s nothing I love more in a romance book than great banter. It’s an absolute requirement for me—otherwise, you’ll have to work very hard to convince me to pick the book up. I’ve read every Angela Casella book, and her stories have become such a comfort read for me and always will be no matter what!
One thing I really appreciated was that the book is available in two versions: a spicy, fully open-door edition and a closed-door edition. Naturally, I chose the spicy version—and let me just say, it absolutely did not disappoint - it is chaos, chemistry, and emotional depth, leaving you completely charmed by the end, all in one!
Nora and Cormac are equal parts adorable and chaotic together. What begins as a flimsy fake relationship quickly turns into something much more real—and much more dangerous to their hearts. The romantic tension is handled so well: lingering glances, accidental touches, and moments that constantly feel on the verge of tipping over into something genuine. And when things finally do heat up? Whew. The spice is perfectly slow-burn, making every moment feel earned instead of rushed.
What made the romance especially touching was how both Nora and Cormac come from fractured families and have grown up doubting whether love is truly meant for them. Watching Cormac slowly, patiently convince Nora that they deserve love was incredibly endearing. I absolutely adored Cormac—he’s the ultimate green flag. Sweet, thoughtful, and delightfully nerdy, he was impossible not to love. It was also so refreshing to see an autistic character take center stage in a romance and get the happily-ever-after they deserve.
What really elevates the story, though, is the emotional depth running beneath all the humor and chemistry. Underneath the laughs and the steam, there’s vulnerability, complicated family history, and that terrifying question: what happens when pretending starts to feel real?
Add in a chaotic corgi (seriously, the corgi is the MVP), sharp witty banter, and a premise that keeps escalating in the most entertaining ways, and you’ve got a rom-com that’s impossible to put down. The side characters were just as entertaining—quirky, memorable, and full of personality—and they definitely made me want to go back and read the rest of the series.
Overall, this was such a fun, heartfelt, and ridiculously entertaining read. Between the swoony slow-burn romance, the hilarious banter, the emotional vulnerability, and one very iconic corgi, this book completely won me over. It’s the kind of rom-com that makes you laugh, blush, and ache a little all at once—and by the end, I didn’t want to leave these characters behind. If you love fake dating, chaotic chemistry, and soft nerdy heroes who worship the ground their girl walks on, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
And honestly, in the midst of how heavy life has felt lately—and after so many emotionally intense books—this was exactly the kind of read I needed. Lighthearted, comforting, funny, and full of heart, it was the perfect escape at exactly the right time.
A huge thank you to Angela Casella for the ARC, for the endless banter in the chat (and books), and for always giving me the perfect excuse to abandon my responsibilities and get completely lost in one of your books!
My Thoughts:
There’s nothing I love more in a romance book than great banter. It’s an absolute requirement for me—otherwise, you’ll have to work very hard to convince me to pick the book up. I’ve read every Angela Casella book, and her stories have become such a comfort read for me and always will be no matter what!
One thing I really appreciated was that the book is available in two versions: a spicy, fully open-door edition and a closed-door edition. Naturally, I chose the spicy version—and let me just say, it absolutely did not disappoint - it is chaos, chemistry, and emotional depth, leaving you completely charmed by the end, all in one!
Nora and Cormac are equal parts adorable and chaotic together. What begins as a flimsy fake relationship quickly turns into something much more real—and much more dangerous to their hearts. The romantic tension is handled so well: lingering glances, accidental touches, and moments that constantly feel on the verge of tipping over into something genuine. And when things finally do heat up? Whew. The spice is perfectly slow-burn, making every moment feel earned instead of rushed.
What made the romance especially touching was how both Nora and Cormac come from fractured families and have grown up doubting whether love is truly meant for them. Watching Cormac slowly, patiently convince Nora that they deserve love was incredibly endearing. I absolutely adored Cormac—he’s the ultimate green flag. Sweet, thoughtful, and delightfully nerdy, he was impossible not to love. It was also so refreshing to see an autistic character take center stage in a romance and get the happily-ever-after they deserve.
What really elevates the story, though, is the emotional depth running beneath all the humor and chemistry. Underneath the laughs and the steam, there’s vulnerability, complicated family history, and that terrifying question: what happens when pretending starts to feel real?
Add in a chaotic corgi (seriously, the corgi is the MVP), sharp witty banter, and a premise that keeps escalating in the most entertaining ways, and you’ve got a rom-com that’s impossible to put down. The side characters were just as entertaining—quirky, memorable, and full of personality—and they definitely made me want to go back and read the rest of the series.
Overall, this was such a fun, heartfelt, and ridiculously entertaining read. Between the swoony slow-burn romance, the hilarious banter, the emotional vulnerability, and one very iconic corgi, this book completely won me over. It’s the kind of rom-com that makes you laugh, blush, and ache a little all at once—and by the end, I didn’t want to leave these characters behind. If you love fake dating, chaotic chemistry, and soft nerdy heroes who worship the ground their girl walks on, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
And honestly, in the midst of how heavy life has felt lately—and after so many emotionally intense books—this was exactly the kind of read I needed. Lighthearted, comforting, funny, and full of heart, it was the perfect escape at exactly the right time.
A huge thank you to Angela Casella for the ARC, for the endless banter in the chat (and books), and for always giving me the perfect excuse to abandon my responsibilities and get completely lost in one of your books!
May 20, 2026
Thank you to Hambright PR and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book. This is my voluntary and honest opinion.
This is my first book by this author but I am a seasoned contemporary romance reader and love a good fake dating story.
Overall Thoughts:
This was a super adorable book with extremely lovable characters, great small town vibes, neurodivergence rep, and lots of great banter. I loved all the nods to the local Asheville, NC area (where I live!) and the neurotic dog was the icing on the cake.
Spice Level:
So this book is pretty special because it has TWO versions- a spicy and a closed door! I chose spicy because 🌶️ 🔥 YOLO and I was not disappointed. These kids went at it all over the place and in lots of fun ways 😂 while hot and heavy it is not overly graphic and many would probably still consider this pretty mild spice.
Characters:
There are so many great characters in this book. Our FMC, Nora is an independent, loyal, and proud woman who unfortunately doesn’t see how deserving she is of the love she is offered. After seeing her parents marriage implode she has some pretty big reservations about love. Our MMC, Cormac enters the picture as the son of her mother’s new husband. Yup. Her step brother 🤭 while they’re known each other a long time they haven’t been what you’d call friendly. However, that doesn’t stop them from entering into a fake relationship to try and save Nora’s business partner from his crazy girlfriend!
Along with these two there are so many secondary characters that absolutely made this book. Shout outs to Dottie, Ann, and Nathaniel. They are the real MVP’s!
Romance and Chemistry:
10/10 in the chemistry for these two. Cormac who is not diagnosed autistic but has many of the markers for it doesn’t always know how to exist in social settings or how to react or respond “normally” and this author did such a good job of showing how isolating that can be for someone especially when trying to navigate the complexities of an intimate relationship. Nora only sees his traits as endearing and helps guide him when they are in social settings. Outside of that, when they are together they are so very in tune with each others wants and needs. He is extremely protective and while he may not be physically imposing or demonstrative in the way he takes care of her, he won’t let anyone hurt her. She is also extremely sensitive to how others are around him and is so careful to make sure he isn’t being unknowingly teased.
Writing Style and Pacing:
This flowed so well. The writing was easy going with believable dialogue, and plot points that moved the story along at a comfortable pace. I loved her descriptions of the area and especially how small towns feel and act. As someone who lives small town life it was very accurate!
Setting and Vibes:
Asheville, NC and the surrounding WNC area. The story takes place in a local brewery, local gym, local bakery, and other local places. All the small town vibes in every aspect of the book!
Content and Triggers:
Sexual activity
Minor language
Final thoughts:
This was such a fun read. It reminded me a lot of Lucy Score and her small town style of writing. The characters were unique and while I don’t usually love fake dating, this one was so well done I actually enjoyed seeing them navigate it while trying (and failing) to keep it a secret. There’s also some opposites attract, he falls first, high school enemies to lover, and a corgi named Cookie. What else could you want?
Ratings:
4.25/5
2/5 spice
This is my first book by this author but I am a seasoned contemporary romance reader and love a good fake dating story.
Overall Thoughts:
This was a super adorable book with extremely lovable characters, great small town vibes, neurodivergence rep, and lots of great banter. I loved all the nods to the local Asheville, NC area (where I live!) and the neurotic dog was the icing on the cake.
Spice Level:
So this book is pretty special because it has TWO versions- a spicy and a closed door! I chose spicy because 🌶️ 🔥 YOLO and I was not disappointed. These kids went at it all over the place and in lots of fun ways 😂 while hot and heavy it is not overly graphic and many would probably still consider this pretty mild spice.
Characters:
There are so many great characters in this book. Our FMC, Nora is an independent, loyal, and proud woman who unfortunately doesn’t see how deserving she is of the love she is offered. After seeing her parents marriage implode she has some pretty big reservations about love. Our MMC, Cormac enters the picture as the son of her mother’s new husband. Yup. Her step brother 🤭 while they’re known each other a long time they haven’t been what you’d call friendly. However, that doesn’t stop them from entering into a fake relationship to try and save Nora’s business partner from his crazy girlfriend!
Along with these two there are so many secondary characters that absolutely made this book. Shout outs to Dottie, Ann, and Nathaniel. They are the real MVP’s!
Romance and Chemistry:
10/10 in the chemistry for these two. Cormac who is not diagnosed autistic but has many of the markers for it doesn’t always know how to exist in social settings or how to react or respond “normally” and this author did such a good job of showing how isolating that can be for someone especially when trying to navigate the complexities of an intimate relationship. Nora only sees his traits as endearing and helps guide him when they are in social settings. Outside of that, when they are together they are so very in tune with each others wants and needs. He is extremely protective and while he may not be physically imposing or demonstrative in the way he takes care of her, he won’t let anyone hurt her. She is also extremely sensitive to how others are around him and is so careful to make sure he isn’t being unknowingly teased.
Writing Style and Pacing:
This flowed so well. The writing was easy going with believable dialogue, and plot points that moved the story along at a comfortable pace. I loved her descriptions of the area and especially how small towns feel and act. As someone who lives small town life it was very accurate!
Setting and Vibes:
Asheville, NC and the surrounding WNC area. The story takes place in a local brewery, local gym, local bakery, and other local places. All the small town vibes in every aspect of the book!
Content and Triggers:
Sexual activity
Minor language
Final thoughts:
This was such a fun read. It reminded me a lot of Lucy Score and her small town style of writing. The characters were unique and while I don’t usually love fake dating, this one was so well done I actually enjoyed seeing them navigate it while trying (and failing) to keep it a secret. There’s also some opposites attract, he falls first, high school enemies to lover, and a corgi named Cookie. What else could you want?
Ratings:
4.25/5
2/5 spice
May 18, 2026
4.25 🌟 1.5 🔥 (this was the spicy version)
First of all, how cool is it that there are TWO versions of this book that have different levels of spice! One version is a closed-door romance, whereas the spicy version (the one that I read) has some more detailed intimate scenes! If you’re a hardcore spice person, it won’t be super spicy to you, but, honestly, it didn’t need to be. I was so engaged with the characters and the story that I didn’t feel like it would have enhanced my opinion of the book!
Nora and Cormac met in high school, and unknowing, had a crush on each other. When Cormac doesn’t meet her for their seven minutes in heaven, Nora is crushed. (You will find out why later) So when she knocks over the robot that Cormac makes and breaks it, her sympathy is lacking, to say the least.
Flash forward 12ish years— Cormac’s dad and Nora’s mom get married. When they arrived, neither had any plans of going out of their way to be nice to the other. When Nora decides to get sassy with Cormac, her best friend/business partner’s awful girlfriend walks in on what looks like Nora on her knees for her soon to be step brother.
Pansy (the best friends girlfriend) is dead set that they’re together and promises to “keep their secret” as blackmail. Nora decides that pretending to be a couple is the perfect way to get Jose to break up with Pansy.
Let’s talk about CORMAC!
“You’re a strange guy. Are you autistic or something?” “Probably, but I’ve never felt the need to get evaluated.” She stares blankly at me. “Oh, you were trying to insult me,” I say. “Well, I don’t consider it an insult. Only someone uneducated would.”
As a woman married to a man on the spectrum, I fell in love with Cormac instantly! The concept of “romance” and romantic gestures can look very different when you’re with someone on the spectrum. It can be so hard to feel special when he doesn’t come home with a bouquet of roses or grandiose gifts. To men like my husband and Cormac, it looks like weeds from a garden and a robot made just for her. With that said, Cormac is never specifically diagnosed with an ASD (see quote above). But anyone who loves someone on the spectrum will be able to connect with his thought processes and behaviors. Cormac could not even be autistic, but he still thinks differently than most other people. He’s so kind, and smart, and thoughtful. As they fake their relationship, Nora starts to realize that he is all of those things, but that those qualities look different for Cormac. His actions and words from the past start to make more sense the more she starts to understand him and his brain.
Loved the story! Loved the wild girl/reserved quiet guy dynamic! She’s sassy and loud, he’s regimented and intentional—
Definite opposites, but works so well!!
This is book 4 of the series, but I have only read this book and didn’t feel like I was missing anything by not reading the rest of the series. I definitely want to go back though!!
I was given the opportunity to ARC read this book by Hambright PR. THANK YOU! This opportunity did not sway my review and this is 100% my own opinion.
First of all, how cool is it that there are TWO versions of this book that have different levels of spice! One version is a closed-door romance, whereas the spicy version (the one that I read) has some more detailed intimate scenes! If you’re a hardcore spice person, it won’t be super spicy to you, but, honestly, it didn’t need to be. I was so engaged with the characters and the story that I didn’t feel like it would have enhanced my opinion of the book!
Nora and Cormac met in high school, and unknowing, had a crush on each other. When Cormac doesn’t meet her for their seven minutes in heaven, Nora is crushed. (You will find out why later) So when she knocks over the robot that Cormac makes and breaks it, her sympathy is lacking, to say the least.
Flash forward 12ish years— Cormac’s dad and Nora’s mom get married. When they arrived, neither had any plans of going out of their way to be nice to the other. When Nora decides to get sassy with Cormac, her best friend/business partner’s awful girlfriend walks in on what looks like Nora on her knees for her soon to be step brother.
Pansy (the best friends girlfriend) is dead set that they’re together and promises to “keep their secret” as blackmail. Nora decides that pretending to be a couple is the perfect way to get Jose to break up with Pansy.
Let’s talk about CORMAC!
“You’re a strange guy. Are you autistic or something?” “Probably, but I’ve never felt the need to get evaluated.” She stares blankly at me. “Oh, you were trying to insult me,” I say. “Well, I don’t consider it an insult. Only someone uneducated would.”
As a woman married to a man on the spectrum, I fell in love with Cormac instantly! The concept of “romance” and romantic gestures can look very different when you’re with someone on the spectrum. It can be so hard to feel special when he doesn’t come home with a bouquet of roses or grandiose gifts. To men like my husband and Cormac, it looks like weeds from a garden and a robot made just for her. With that said, Cormac is never specifically diagnosed with an ASD (see quote above). But anyone who loves someone on the spectrum will be able to connect with his thought processes and behaviors. Cormac could not even be autistic, but he still thinks differently than most other people. He’s so kind, and smart, and thoughtful. As they fake their relationship, Nora starts to realize that he is all of those things, but that those qualities look different for Cormac. His actions and words from the past start to make more sense the more she starts to understand him and his brain.
Loved the story! Loved the wild girl/reserved quiet guy dynamic! She’s sassy and loud, he’s regimented and intentional—
Definite opposites, but works so well!!
This is book 4 of the series, but I have only read this book and didn’t feel like I was missing anything by not reading the rest of the series. I definitely want to go back though!!
I was given the opportunity to ARC read this book by Hambright PR. THANK YOU! This opportunity did not sway my review and this is 100% my own opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
WORST FAKING IDEA by ANGELA CASSELA ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Worst Faking Idea is the fourth (4) book in THE BABES OF BREWING series
When Nova’s mother gets married, Nova’s new stepbrother is none other than Cormac, her school nemesis. Cormac's always been a bit ‘off’ with seemingly autistic tendencies and after he bawled her out years ago for accidentally breaking his school project, Nova’s gone out of her way to avoid him, after all she has much more important things to worry about than him.
Nova’s Ginger beer brewery is under threat - her business partner José’s fiancée is doing her best to get him to give up his stake in the brewery, which would mean Nova losing her life’s dream. José’s fiancée Pansy is sure that José is in love with Nova and will do everything in her power to break up their partnership.
When Pansy walks in on Nova and Cormac arguing in her office, she believes they are having a secret relationship and they decide to run with it in the hopes she’ll leave the business alone.
As the pair work to make this secret relationship believable they start spending more time together and slowly they realise that there is undoubted chemistry between them but things start to unravel and everything goes to pot……
—————————
This was my first read by Angela and it was great. There are two versions to choose from -a spicy version or a sweet version (with no spice just kissing), I really appreciated this as it makes the book available to all audiences. I read the sweet version.
I really enjoyed Cormac's character. It was a refreshing change to see a character with autism star in a book and get their hea. I thought that Cormac and Nova were well matched and theirs was a sweet story.
I really liked all the side characters. They were a quirky interesting bunch and I’m really inspired to read the other books in the series.
My only negative about this book was that at one point (the first time they got intimate) I felt that it wasn’t addressed at all in the sweet version, it was almost as though an entire chapter was just dropped to avoid the spice and nothing was put in to replace it. One minute they kiss then it’s the next chapter and it’s only hinted obscurely that they had had ‘relations’
On the whole I really did enjoy this read.
I read an ebook copy of this book, with just over 400 pages, a bright illustrated cover and reasonable editing
With thanks to Angela CASSELA and Hambright PR for an early copy of this amusing book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🫚 Sweet Or Spicy Version
🫚 Autistic Character
🫚 Fake Dating
🫚 Slow Burn
🫚 He Falls First
Worst Faking Idea is the fourth (4) book in THE BABES OF BREWING series
When Nova’s mother gets married, Nova’s new stepbrother is none other than Cormac, her school nemesis. Cormac's always been a bit ‘off’ with seemingly autistic tendencies and after he bawled her out years ago for accidentally breaking his school project, Nova’s gone out of her way to avoid him, after all she has much more important things to worry about than him.
Nova’s Ginger beer brewery is under threat - her business partner José’s fiancée is doing her best to get him to give up his stake in the brewery, which would mean Nova losing her life’s dream. José’s fiancée Pansy is sure that José is in love with Nova and will do everything in her power to break up their partnership.
When Pansy walks in on Nova and Cormac arguing in her office, she believes they are having a secret relationship and they decide to run with it in the hopes she’ll leave the business alone.
As the pair work to make this secret relationship believable they start spending more time together and slowly they realise that there is undoubted chemistry between them but things start to unravel and everything goes to pot……
—————————
This was my first read by Angela and it was great. There are two versions to choose from -a spicy version or a sweet version (with no spice just kissing), I really appreciated this as it makes the book available to all audiences. I read the sweet version.
I really enjoyed Cormac's character. It was a refreshing change to see a character with autism star in a book and get their hea. I thought that Cormac and Nova were well matched and theirs was a sweet story.
I really liked all the side characters. They were a quirky interesting bunch and I’m really inspired to read the other books in the series.
My only negative about this book was that at one point (the first time they got intimate) I felt that it wasn’t addressed at all in the sweet version, it was almost as though an entire chapter was just dropped to avoid the spice and nothing was put in to replace it. One minute they kiss then it’s the next chapter and it’s only hinted obscurely that they had had ‘relations’
On the whole I really did enjoy this read.
I read an ebook copy of this book, with just over 400 pages, a bright illustrated cover and reasonable editing
With thanks to Angela CASSELA and Hambright PR for an early copy of this amusing book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🫚 Sweet Or Spicy Version
🫚 Autistic Character
🫚 Fake Dating
🫚 Slow Burn
🫚 He Falls First
May 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Each book of the Babes of Brewing has focused on one of the 4 women we met in book 1. The women met through a terrible man who was cheating on all of them with one another. After they ditch him, each book focuses on their journey to finding real love and finally it is Nora’s turn! Worst Faking Idea, book 4 in the series, comes in both spicy and sweet as Angela Casella always offers her readers. A somewhat taboo relationship ensues within the pages that had my giggling, sighing, and screaming for joy as it progressed. Our MCs have been nemesis since high school. Don’t let that fool you though, the chemistry between these two threaten to set this book on fire.
Nora is the queen of ginger beer and loves her company that she co-owns with a business partner. The fiancé of said business partner doesn’t like Nora and thinks she is after him. Nothing is further from the truth, but to get the fiancé off her back, Nora invents a fake boyfriend. When she is caught fighting with Cormac, he becomes the assumed boyfriend. One problem though. Their parents are about to marry each other and they will be step-siblings (sorta). Keeping this relationship known, but also secret is imperative to both of them.
Cormac is adorably socially awkward in the best way. He doesn’t read social queues well and misinterprets many things. While Nora thinks he is her nemesis, he’s been in love with her for some time. Being able to help her out is the least he can do and finally gives him the chance to be near her in the way he’s always wanted. When I tell you I was not prepared for the spice to come out of Cormac, I mean it. Angela had me blushing from head to toe with the words that come out of this man’s mouth and the things he does to Nora in the bedroom. He is head over heels for this woman and wants to give her everything she deserves.
These two help each other realize they deserve love, which thanks to both of their parents, healthy love wasn’t always seen. Nora has taken that upbringing to heart, while Cormac knows they both deserve so much more. While the step sibling factor gives the story a slight taboo feeling, it was never the focus for me. As these two knew each other before, their relationship stems from their own connection, not one created by their parents being married. Angela writes an incredible story featuring these two and I loved it.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🫚Secret Relationship
👓Fake Dating
🫚High School Nemesis’ to More
👓Opposites Attract
🫚Hot Nerd MMC
👓Brewery Owner FMC
🫚He Falls First and Harder
👓Elderly Matchmaking
Each book of the Babes of Brewing has focused on one of the 4 women we met in book 1. The women met through a terrible man who was cheating on all of them with one another. After they ditch him, each book focuses on their journey to finding real love and finally it is Nora’s turn! Worst Faking Idea, book 4 in the series, comes in both spicy and sweet as Angela Casella always offers her readers. A somewhat taboo relationship ensues within the pages that had my giggling, sighing, and screaming for joy as it progressed. Our MCs have been nemesis since high school. Don’t let that fool you though, the chemistry between these two threaten to set this book on fire.
Nora is the queen of ginger beer and loves her company that she co-owns with a business partner. The fiancé of said business partner doesn’t like Nora and thinks she is after him. Nothing is further from the truth, but to get the fiancé off her back, Nora invents a fake boyfriend. When she is caught fighting with Cormac, he becomes the assumed boyfriend. One problem though. Their parents are about to marry each other and they will be step-siblings (sorta). Keeping this relationship known, but also secret is imperative to both of them.
Cormac is adorably socially awkward in the best way. He doesn’t read social queues well and misinterprets many things. While Nora thinks he is her nemesis, he’s been in love with her for some time. Being able to help her out is the least he can do and finally gives him the chance to be near her in the way he’s always wanted. When I tell you I was not prepared for the spice to come out of Cormac, I mean it. Angela had me blushing from head to toe with the words that come out of this man’s mouth and the things he does to Nora in the bedroom. He is head over heels for this woman and wants to give her everything she deserves.
These two help each other realize they deserve love, which thanks to both of their parents, healthy love wasn’t always seen. Nora has taken that upbringing to heart, while Cormac knows they both deserve so much more. While the step sibling factor gives the story a slight taboo feeling, it was never the focus for me. As these two knew each other before, their relationship stems from their own connection, not one created by their parents being married. Angela writes an incredible story featuring these two and I loved it.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🫚Secret Relationship
👓Fake Dating
🫚High School Nemesis’ to More
👓Opposites Attract
🫚Hot Nerd MMC
👓Brewery Owner FMC
🫚He Falls First and Harder
👓Elderly Matchmaking
May 16, 2026
4.75⭐️
🌶️🌶️ 2/5 — Light spice
• Some on-page intimacy
• Limited detail
• More romance than heat
Steamy and Spice chapters down below.
Peep the trigger/content warnings prior to reading.
📝 Notes:
Dual POV: Nora and Cormac
Romcom
Opposites Attract
Fake dating
Secret relationship
Second Chances
He falls first and hard
Found Family
I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC, and I’m grateful to be part of the experience. Here’s my honest review.
This already sounds super engaging and very you. The excitement and personality come through really naturally. I’d mostly just tighten a few sentences for flow, grammar, and readability while keeping your voice intact. Here’s a polished version:
This is book 4 in an interconnected series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. I was offered two different versions of this book and chose to read the spicy version.
And wow — it was HOT. That said, I genuinely think the story would still hold up just as well without the spice because the chemistry and relationship between Nora and Cormac were already so strong on their own.
Their dynamic was absolutely addictive. The banter was witty, smart, and had me laughing through so many scenes. Following their adventure together was just so much fun.
And Cormac? Freaking adorable. How could anyone not love him? A hot nerd who plays bass guitar??? SOLD!!
Honestly, Cookie was what originally sold me on picking up this book since I have a corgi myself, and I’m so glad I gave it a chance because it ended up being such an enjoyable read.
I also loved all the side characters and cameos from previous books in the series. I haven’t read the earlier books yet, but now I’m fully hooked and definitely need to go back and read them all.
I know the author created a playlist for this book, but these songs by Arctic Monkeys especially made me think of Nora and Cormac and the vibe of the story:
🎶🎤🎸
* “Do I Wanna Know?”
* “I Wanna Be Yours”
* “Baby I’m Yours”
* “Fluorescent Adolescent” — this song especially gave me nostalgic vibes and reminded me of how Nora and Cormac reflected on who they were in high school. The strong bass also made me think of Cormac and his bass guitar. I could totally picture this playing when Nora showed up to his show.
Quotes:
“I don’t know what to do, Mom,” I admit. “Then don’t do anything. You can wait and see where the current takes you, Nora. You don’t always have to remake the river.”
🌶️Spice Chapters:
17 first kiss
18
23 🔥
25
26
29
🌶️🌶️ 2/5 — Light spice
• Some on-page intimacy
• Limited detail
• More romance than heat
Steamy and Spice chapters down below.
Peep the trigger/content warnings prior to reading.
📝 Notes:
Dual POV: Nora and Cormac
Romcom
Opposites Attract
Fake dating
Secret relationship
Second Chances
He falls first and hard
Found Family
I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC, and I’m grateful to be part of the experience. Here’s my honest review.
This already sounds super engaging and very you. The excitement and personality come through really naturally. I’d mostly just tighten a few sentences for flow, grammar, and readability while keeping your voice intact. Here’s a polished version:
This is book 4 in an interconnected series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. I was offered two different versions of this book and chose to read the spicy version.
And wow — it was HOT. That said, I genuinely think the story would still hold up just as well without the spice because the chemistry and relationship between Nora and Cormac were already so strong on their own.
Their dynamic was absolutely addictive. The banter was witty, smart, and had me laughing through so many scenes. Following their adventure together was just so much fun.
And Cormac? Freaking adorable. How could anyone not love him? A hot nerd who plays bass guitar??? SOLD!!
Honestly, Cookie was what originally sold me on picking up this book since I have a corgi myself, and I’m so glad I gave it a chance because it ended up being such an enjoyable read.
I also loved all the side characters and cameos from previous books in the series. I haven’t read the earlier books yet, but now I’m fully hooked and definitely need to go back and read them all.
I know the author created a playlist for this book, but these songs by Arctic Monkeys especially made me think of Nora and Cormac and the vibe of the story:
🎶🎤🎸
* “Do I Wanna Know?”
* “I Wanna Be Yours”
* “Baby I’m Yours”
* “Fluorescent Adolescent” — this song especially gave me nostalgic vibes and reminded me of how Nora and Cormac reflected on who they were in high school. The strong bass also made me think of Cormac and his bass guitar. I could totally picture this playing when Nora showed up to his show.
Quotes:
“I don’t know what to do, Mom,” I admit. “Then don’t do anything. You can wait and see where the current takes you, Nora. You don’t always have to remake the river.”
🌶️Spice Chapters:
17 first kiss
18
23 🔥
25
26
29
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Nora’s mother is marrying her high school crush-to-nemises’ father and now she will be forced to play nice. He's awkward, introverted, and has the people skills of a houseplant. But he may be the perfect person to help her with a little white lie..
Cormac loathes to see Nora, and to top it all off she’s asked him to play her secret fake boyfriend to trick her business-partners’ girlfriend–it is crazy and impulsive, but he agrees. How can he say no to her really… and the more time they spend together, the he may just like this secret fake relationship to be real.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
📆 Available on May 14, 2026
I finished this book, and I am now left with a longing for more of these two and a craving for Ginger beer. I absolutely LOVED Cormac and Nora - they both had quirks that, as an awkwardly social being myself, completely appreciate.
Nora is obsessed with trying to keep her ginger beer brewery, but her business partner’s girlfriend will not stand for it. Of course, said girlfriend is the “villian” here and she was incredibly irritating but you love to hate her. She will lay off IF Nora has a boyfriend - insert Cormac, her nerdy, awkward, step-brother to be. I kept thinking ok, this is strange, but it was also so sooo hilarious and I rooted for them both the entire time. Their banter was executed so perfectly, and the hidden feelings really blossomed into this spicy chemistry that I could not get enough of.
And the spice once he gets his way - okkk Cormac you can make me an ice cream anytime.
I was obsessed with Cormac - slutty glasses, his yearning for Nora, and his relationship with the “little old lady” omg, I cannot. I could have kept reading about this man forever. Plus the bonus sections of group chats between Cormac and his “Fairy Godmothers” was the absolute cherry to this sweet treat – the advice and witty banter of these old women were seriously fantastic.
It truly was a great time the whole way and another book that just confirms how much I will be obsessing over this author. The humour, the swoony slow-burn romance, the little chaotic corgi,, YES! Casella has become an author I want everything from. Absolutely recommend for the romance lovers who want a lighthearted and witty read!
A huge thank you to the author, Hambright PR, and TheAuthorAgency for this eARC (yes, I requested this twice because I wanted it bad).
YEARNING | GIRL GANG | CHILDHOOD CRUSH | SLOW BURN | ROM-COM | MAY READS | ROMANCE BOOKS | ARC | ARC READER | BOOKSTA | BOOK COMMUNITY | BOOK LIFE | IM HERE FOR THE PLOT | READ WITH ME | BOOK OBSESSED | READING COMMUNITY | BOOK POST | CANADIAN READERS | BOOKSTAGRAM | CANADIAN BOOKSTAGRAMMER | BOOK LOVER | BOOKWORM | BOOK NERD| BOOK OBSESSED | KINDLE READER
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Cormac loathes to see Nora, and to top it all off she’s asked him to play her secret fake boyfriend to trick her business-partners’ girlfriend–it is crazy and impulsive, but he agrees. How can he say no to her really… and the more time they spend together, the he may just like this secret fake relationship to be real.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
📆 Available on May 14, 2026
I finished this book, and I am now left with a longing for more of these two and a craving for Ginger beer. I absolutely LOVED Cormac and Nora - they both had quirks that, as an awkwardly social being myself, completely appreciate.
“Yeah, she’s hot, but she’s the human equivalent of a hemorrhoid” - Nora
Nora is obsessed with trying to keep her ginger beer brewery, but her business partner’s girlfriend will not stand for it. Of course, said girlfriend is the “villian” here and she was incredibly irritating but you love to hate her. She will lay off IF Nora has a boyfriend - insert Cormac, her nerdy, awkward, step-brother to be. I kept thinking ok, this is strange, but it was also so sooo hilarious and I rooted for them both the entire time. Their banter was executed so perfectly, and the hidden feelings really blossomed into this spicy chemistry that I could not get enough of.
And the spice once he gets his way - okkk Cormac you can make me an ice cream anytime.
I was obsessed with Cormac - slutty glasses, his yearning for Nora, and his relationship with the “little old lady” omg, I cannot. I could have kept reading about this man forever. Plus the bonus sections of group chats between Cormac and his “Fairy Godmothers” was the absolute cherry to this sweet treat – the advice and witty banter of these old women were seriously fantastic.
It truly was a great time the whole way and another book that just confirms how much I will be obsessing over this author. The humour, the swoony slow-burn romance, the little chaotic corgi,, YES! Casella has become an author I want everything from. Absolutely recommend for the romance lovers who want a lighthearted and witty read!
A huge thank you to the author, Hambright PR, and TheAuthorAgency for this eARC (yes, I requested this twice because I wanted it bad).
YEARNING | GIRL GANG | CHILDHOOD CRUSH | SLOW BURN | ROM-COM | MAY READS | ROMANCE BOOKS | ARC | ARC READER | BOOKSTA | BOOK COMMUNITY | BOOK LIFE | IM HERE FOR THE PLOT | READ WITH ME | BOOK OBSESSED | READING COMMUNITY | BOOK POST | CANADIAN READERS | BOOKSTAGRAM | CANADIAN BOOKSTAGRAMMER | BOOK LOVER | BOOKWORM | BOOK NERD| BOOK OBSESSED | KINDLE READER
Visit my Bookstagram for photos and more reviews!
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