Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Josie Carter Fakes Valentine's Day

Rate this book

132 pages, Paperback

Published February 2, 2026

12 people are currently reading
43 people want to read

About the author

Jordan Riley

7 books140 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
34 (50%)
4 stars
27 (40%)
3 stars
6 (8%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Ella Noellee.
92 reviews17 followers
January 27, 2026
⭐️4

This was a sweet Valentines novella!🩷
I liked getting to know Tanner and Josie, I like how he supported her and, lovingly, encouraged her to be herself around her friends and tell the truth. I loved the way it portrayed truth and the importance of it. The proposal was also so sweet, I loved how Tanner also included Charlotte🥹

tropes:
🩷friends to lovers
🩷one bed
🩷workplace romance
🩷small town
🩷faith themes
🩷fake dating
🩷Valentines Day novella
🩷dual pov

CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
Profile Image for Shea Whitley.
2 reviews2 followers
January 28, 2026
This was a sweet and quick Valentines read! I am a sucker for the friends-to-lovers trope and this gave me exactly that. ☺️
I always find it so precious when we get to experience not just how she feels about him but also what he thinks about her before they start telling each other how they both feel.
I do wish I had a better idea of the characters’ physical features, just so I had a more rounded picture of who they were and what they looked like, but it is always fun to be able to create your own picture in your own head.
A sweet, fun, and quick read! 🩷
Profile Image for Brooklyn.
15 reviews
January 30, 2026
This book was so stinking cute!! 💗🥹

Josie and Tanner were just the sweetest! And I love the dynamic between Tanner and his little sister, Charlotte. 🫶🏻 He’s such a sweet big brother!
The faith themes in this book were beautifully done! Josie made mistakes in order to be accepted by her friends, and Tanner reminded her (in the sweetest way) how true friends should treat you. And that to be Christian, it’s not easy! Not everyone will love us. We won’t fit in everywhere, but we’re not supposed to. 💖
And the ending?! I got emotional 🥹 that was precious!!

My first Jordan Riley book, and she was right, I do think it’s too short. 😂 I want more!
906 reviews11 followers
February 5, 2026
I love a good bite sized holiday novella that actually has good chemistry. I’m not usually a big fan of fake dating, but Tanner has expert level “fake it til you make it” flirty energy and I loved it!

Obviously my criteria for a five star novella is different than for a full length book, but I had a full goofy grin on my face at the end of this book so…
Profile Image for kenzie.
33 reviews1 follower
January 28, 2026
absolutely loved this book! was such a sweet read 💞

watching their relationship grow and how Tanner was encouraging her to reflect Christ and her faith to her friends was so amazing

love their relationship so much, and the ending was so sweet 😭🫶🏼

was blessed to be given an arc of this book :)
Profile Image for Randi Sampson.
1,795 reviews97 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 27, 2026
Oh, what a sweet Valentine's Day romance this was! First off, Josie and Tanner were the cutest together. Right away I loved the dynamic between them... they were best friends and coworkers, but there was definitely an undeniable chemistry between them, and I couldn't help but enjoy their flirty banter, even before that cross that line from friendship into more. And when they do? Even better! Seriously, I couldn't get enough of these two. More than that though, if you have ever felt like you had to hide parts of yourself and what you believe to be accepted in your friendships, this book is one you'll want to check out as Josie's story goes beyond just your typical fake dating. I loved this message of faith and once again the imperfect characters that Jordan Riley always delivers. This was a quick read, easily read in just a sitting or two, but it was packed full of faith and swoon (with a few brief appearances from some characters that fans may recognize). If you're looking for a faith-filled Valentine's Day romance, this is one not to be missed!

Josie Carter Fakes Valentine's Day is a Christian romance with kisses only and no language. There is a bit of innuendo/mentions of sex from a biblical perspective. This is the first book in the Valentine's Ever After series. This is a multi-author series of Valentine's Day novellas and can be enjoyed as standalones.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Tori Conkle.
2 reviews3 followers
January 28, 2026
Josie Carters fakes Valentine’s Day.

This book is so CUTE! Josie and Tanner their banter is so funny! They definitely love each other and don’t want to ruin their friendship. Tanner saves Josie from her mess she had gotten herself into. Throughout the trip they start to realize how real their feelings are for each other. He helps her realize she isn’t being her real self around her friends. Tanner just wants the best for her and for Josie to be the best version of herself. The Josie he knows. When Josie comes to that realization when she is around her friends she isn’t her best self and causes to be sinful and not let God’s light shine it might not the be the best situation for her.


I won’t go into everything to keep from spoiling the book.


This isn’t a cookie cutter book. This is definitely a gritty book. Although has Christian faith and the characters learn from their mistakes.


Trigger warnings:

Drug addiction is mentioned.

Josie and Tanner do share a bed which they know is wrong.

❗️There be redemption in that later.❗️

The author talked to me before I read the book because I had questions. She helped me decide if the book was right for me!

Jordan was so graceful and never made me feel like I was being annoying.
11 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 31, 2026
I LOVED Josie + Tanner😍!!!
This was such a sweet read! I absolutely LOVED it! The banter and chemistry between them was HOT from page 1 all the way to the end! I loved the added storyline about Josie and her friends. I especially loved the quote about being an influence even when it’s hard as a Christian! I am not usually a big fan of fake dating, I’m very picky with this trope in particular, but this was done SO well! The only thing I did not like about this book, and why I gave 4/5 stars, was the drinking in the book. While yes she states at the beginning her characters are not perfect, I prefer my books to had very little, to no drinking, that is a personal conviction of mine and I didn’t love how Josie gets drunk in the book, despite the fact Tanner does call her out on it. He also drank though, again I just don’t believe in Christians drinking so I prefer for my books to not have it either. I also didn’t love how willing she was the change in front of him, Tanner did turn around, but that part also rubbed me the wrong way. Aside from that though this was a really sweet and swoony read! I have had her books on my TBR for a while and I do plan to read them soon!
Profile Image for Summer Powers.
33 reviews2 followers
January 27, 2026
♡Josie Carter Fakes Valentine’s Day♡

My review:
Yet another amazing book from Jordan! I didn’t think I’d have time to read this, but as usual I started one of her books and finished it within a day! This is the perfect novella for Valentine’s Day! Tanner and Josie were so sweet! Their friendship was already so sweet and then it just got better! I loved the fake dating and one bed tropes! Some of my favorite tropes, written by one of my favorite authors! I loved seeing Tanner stand up for Josie around her friends and encouraging her and guiding her through how they treated her. I loved seeing Kayce and Wrenley again! And getting to meet Callie and Mitch! This was such a sweet and short read, perfect for getting in the Valentine’s mood!

Ratings:
•4⭐️
•Spice: none (a few passionate kisses. MC’s share a bed, but remain fully clothed.)
•Language: none
•TW/CW: Drug abuse mentioned. MC takes guardianship of younger sibling. Rude friends.

🍓friends to lovers
🤍fake dating
🍓one bed
🤍workplace romance
🍓forced proximity
🤍 Valentine’s Day
🍓small town
🤍slow burn
🍓snowy cabin
9 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 29, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
Josie Carter Fakes Valentine’s Day by Jordan Riley 💘

This sweet workplace Christian romance completely surprised me in the best way. Josie and Tanner start out with a fake Valentine’s Day relationship that’s meant to be simple… but feelings, faith, and real connection quickly get in the way.

Tanner is everything you want in a leading man — kind, steady, faith-driven, and quietly swoon-worthy. The chemistry between him and Josie builds so naturally, and I loved watching their relationship grow through honest conversations, shared values, and lots of heart.

This story is cozy, clean, and full of meaningful moments that go beyond the romance — touching on trust, vulnerability, and letting God lead even when it’s uncomfortable. If you love fake-dating, workplace romance, and faith-based love stories that still give you butterflies, this one is for you.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Perfect for Valentine’s Day… or anytime you need a feel-good romance 🤍
17 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 30, 2026
I laughed, I cried, I said “THIS REMINDER”, giggled at the banter, and swooned as I read through Josie Carter Fakes Valentine’s Day.

Josie, the FMC, is a bubbly, sweet, fun, loving, receptionist at a mechanic shop.

Tanner, the MMC, is an older brother caring for his younger sister, kind, protective, and a mechanic at the same shop.

Josie and Tanner have been best friends for the longest time. But one lie leads them into an adventure of exploring the possibility that they might actually like each other, but as more than just friends. This book truly reminded me of the importance of being equally yoked even with your friends. It reminded me of the verse that goes “bad company corrupts good character.” I truly enjoyed this little novella and I really wish it was longer.

If you enjoy a small town, romance, friends-to-lovers trope, Valentine’s Day themed short story, you will enjoy this novella. Super thankful to Jordan for this ARC opportunity!
Profile Image for Katiebugsbookshelf.
38 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 31, 2026
✨: 4 stars // No spice Valentine’s Day novella 💖
This novella was so cute and inspiring to read! It depicts great messages about navigating being a Christian around those in your life who aren’t and don’t understand. I love how Tanner was able to be there for Josie and show her the importance of the truth even when it seems harmless to lie. I flew through the whole thing within two hours because I was in love with the characters and their journey! This story made me feel hopeful about one day finding that special someone who understands and shares my faith and who will support me. I loved how this story doesn’t shy away or try to depict Christian’s as people who are perfect and have everything together. I absolutely adored the relationship between Tanner and his little sister Charlotte, it was so sweet and adorable 💖
- Closed door
- Faith themes
- Workplace romance
- Friends to Lovers
- Small town
- One bed
- Dual pov
- Fake dating
- Valentine’s Day novella
Profile Image for Tana Huckaby.
9 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 31, 2026
This book was the perfect Valentine’s Day novella—sweet, heartwarming, and exactly the kind of story you want to curl up with during the holiday season. Tanner and Josie were absolutely adorable together, and their chemistry made the fake dating trope even more fun (one of my all-time favorites!). Tanner’s little sister, Charlotte, completely stole my heart—I loved every moment she was on the page.

I also really enjoyed stepping back into Kayce and Wrenley’s world and catching up with their lives. It felt like revisiting old friends, which added an extra layer of warmth to the story.

My only complaint? I just wish it was longer! I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. Overall, this was a charming, feel-good read that delivered all the Valentine’s vibes and left me smiling. 💘✨
Profile Image for Erin Sultanovic.
29 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 30, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)

Josie Carter Fakes Valentine’s Day by Jordan Riley was such a sweet and uplifting read. This workplace, fake-dating Christian romance surprised me with how heartfelt and genuine it was.

Josie and Tanner’s relationship develops naturally through honest conversations, shared faith, and mutual respect. Tanner is patient, kind, and quietly swoon-worthy—exactly the kind of hero you love to root for.

I appreciated how this story goes beyond romance, touching on trust, vulnerability, and learning to let God lead. Cozy, clean, and full of heart, this is a perfect feel-good read for Valentine’s Day or anytime.

Highly recommend for fans of faith-based and wholesome romance.
1 review
Review of advance copy
January 31, 2026
I really enjoyed this sweet story! I’m giving it 4 starts because it was good but I save 5 stars for my favorites. This sweet story had the perfect amount of Christianity mentioned without over doing it. I think it was well written, although I want more of their story! Kinda bummed it’s just a novella. Personally would have enjoyed a full novel of their journey. But truly such a cute story and fun addition for your February TBR. It’s a nice easy read and it’s shorter so I got through it fairly quick! Hope you enjoy it too!
Profile Image for Brittany.
1 review1 follower
Read
February 14, 2026
Tanner knows Josie in the quiet, unspoken way that only years of friendship can build. The way he gently calls her out and challenges her to be true to who she is, is what we all need in our life.

A cozy cabin weekend, one bed, all the tension… and it stays beautifully written. More heart-fluttering than steamy, more emotional than rushed.
A book I’d have no problem sharing with my teen romance-loving daughter!

I selfishly wish it had been a little longer because I loved these characters and their story so much that I wasn’t quite ready to leave their world when it ended!
Profile Image for Claire.
43 reviews
February 4, 2026
This was such a sweet friends-to-lovers novella with dual POV that gave the story a really refreshing vibe. I loved how the Christian element wasn’t preachy but instead focused on something so real — the pressure to conform and be what others expect instead of staying true to your faith and who you are. It was a gentle reminder that love isn’t about being perfect, but about being honest, authentic, and choosing what you believe in. Cute, meaningful, and a quick read I’m glad I picked up.
4 reviews
February 6, 2026
Josie Carter Fakes Valentine’s Day is the perfect little Valentine’s Day novella. It had the perfect small town vibes for those who love a good small town romance. I especially loved Tanner and Charlottes relationship, the parent/sibling relationship was beautifully written. Loved how Tanner and Josie’s relationship grew from friendship to relationship, and how much Josie loved Charlotte. The ending was absolute *chef’s kiss*
Profile Image for Allison Burnett.
48 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 27, 2026
This novella was the CUTEST! 🥹🩷Jordan Riley did it again with this sweet, clean romance! I loved watching Tanner and Josie’s friendship turn into something more—it gave me all the cozy feels. My only complaint? It was way too short and I wanted MORE! 😭 You won’t want to miss this adorable Valentine’s Day novella dropping February 2nd! 💌
2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 27, 2026
What a cute Valentine's Day novella!! 😍 I enjoyed the friendship between Tanner and Josie that blossomed into something more. I appreciate the gentleness from Tanner when discussing Josie's friendships with her and how he helped with that. Overall, it was a very fun and easy read! Love it! Jordan Riley did great again! ❤️
Profile Image for Jaymie Meisinger.
25 reviews
Read
January 28, 2026
Received this as an ARC from Jordan.

I loved this little novella. It was so sweet, so real for young Christian women living in our current climate. Tanner was so sweet & patient and Josie was real and relatable. I know it was a novella, but I wish we had gotten more of these characters.

looking forward to more from Jordan Riley
Profile Image for Lily.
200 reviews
February 4, 2026
This was such a sweet romance story. I absolutely loved it💖 Tanner was so sweet with Charlotte - absolutely melting my heart. Such a beautiful, heartwarming story and I highly recommend for you to read it as soon as possible💖

💖Fake Dating
✨Valentine’s Day
💖Small Town
✨Flirty Banter
💖Single Guardian
✨Christian Romance

🌶️: Kisses Only
🤬: None
Profile Image for Trish C.
25 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2026
This book was SO easy to love! Such a sweet read! I was hooked from the start. The pacing, the flirting, the connection between the characters- it all felt so natural. A great storyline, a great lesson and the ending!!!! 🤌🏼Without spoiling anything, I loved how it ended..even if I hated that it did have to end!
Profile Image for Felicia Gilbert.
3 reviews
January 27, 2026
Y’all need to read this one! I love the way Tanner treats Josie! This book had me giggling and kicking my feet! I LOVED the banter! I want more of them!! 1000/10 stars from me!💕

Be sure to pre-order, it comes out Feb 2nd!💌
Profile Image for maelynn.
114 reviews
February 4, 2026
Did I read this in an hour? Yes, yes I did. And what about it?

Absolutely perfect. Such a short and sweet book!!! And not to mention Charlotte I loved her!!!

Also, tanner may be coming for Jesse’s spot on my rankings😏 just saying😌
Profile Image for Emmasbooknook_08.
35 reviews1 follower
February 7, 2026
This novella is very cute, I wish it were a full-length book!! Jordan never fails to write a cute romance book. (Also my favorite tropes are in this book!! Fake dating, one bed, and friends to lovers!!)
2 reviews
February 7, 2026
This book was super fun to read! It had so many tropes that I love (best friends to lovers, one bed)! Also, the fact that is written with a slight Christian aspect is a plus, this is definitely a book I’ll recommend!!! 🤍
1 review
Review of advance copy
January 28, 2026
I love everything that Jordan writes! This was easily a one sitting read for me! Friends to lovers will always be one of my favorite tropes... I can't wait to read more of Jordan's books!
Profile Image for Whitney Campbell.
5 reviews
January 30, 2026
This book is a perfect short holiday read!! Just the right amount of tension, friends to lovers, forced proximity gold mine 😉
Profile Image for Bron.
7 reviews
February 3, 2026
What a cute Valentines novella! Josie and Tanner are close and have a lot of flirty banter and chemistry but have never crossed the line from friendship to more. When they do? The sweetness of these two just increases! I loved reading their story!

Josie struggles with the need to feel like she fits in and is not always making the best choices because of that.
Tanner is protective and caring and it was great to see him encourage her to be herself, and that she shouldn’t need to change who she is to have people like and accept her.

Such a sweet book with a good faith message!

Thank-you Jordan for having me on your ARC team! Another great book from you!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.