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Fake Dating for the Summer: A Sweet Beach Town RomCom
Coming this summer!
107 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2026
About the author
Francesca Spencer
21 books114 followersRead 'Mr Off-Limits Grump' for free. Just click on www.francescaspencerauthor.com
A bit about me...
My stories are loaded with funny stuff, coincidence, drama and love.
I pull out all the action and comedy, which is usually tragic and accident laden - add some romance if it's romcom - and package it up in a satisfying narrative tied up with a big pink shiny satin bow.
Tadaah! Here you go. Enjoy.
I'm a compulsive traveller. In fact, it's almost an addiction. I have to move around. To fund this expensive hobby, I've worked as an international primary school teacher in a number of countries, for a number of years, which has supplied its own rewards and serviced a mountain of writing material.
When I'm not teaching or having marvellous adventures, I'm visiting friends and family and writing books.
Award Winners
'Stuck With My Christmas Crush' Gold medal - Global Book Awards 2024 (Christmas category)
'Mr Billionaire Boss Grump' 2nd Place - Incipere Awards 2025 (Clean Romance)
A bit about me...
My stories are loaded with funny stuff, coincidence, drama and love.
I pull out all the action and comedy, which is usually tragic and accident laden - add some romance if it's romcom - and package it up in a satisfying narrative tied up with a big pink shiny satin bow.
Tadaah! Here you go. Enjoy.
I'm a compulsive traveller. In fact, it's almost an addiction. I have to move around. To fund this expensive hobby, I've worked as an international primary school teacher in a number of countries, for a number of years, which has supplied its own rewards and serviced a mountain of writing material.
When I'm not teaching or having marvellous adventures, I'm visiting friends and family and writing books.
Award Winners
'Stuck With My Christmas Crush' Gold medal - Global Book Awards 2024 (Christmas category)
'Mr Billionaire Boss Grump' 2nd Place - Incipere Awards 2025 (Clean Romance)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
July 11, 2026
Great short read. Gail knows who she is and what she is about. Adam enjoyed a successful pro football career until it suddenly ends. It was fun to read how their lives intersect and things grow. To find out what it becomes, take a break and read the story.
July 21, 2026
This was a sweet romantic story tied up in a ribbon on a dog’s collar. Adam and Gail’s meet cute happened because of Lola (good dog), and Lola saves the day at the end of the story.
I received an advanced copy and am sharing my own thoughts about the story.
I received an advanced copy and am sharing my own thoughts about the story.
July 21, 2026
Francesca Spencer has penned a treat for us with this book it’s a real gem and it has the cutest cute meet ,well a meet ,a bit of a spat and all because of a hat eating dog….Yes a hat ripped to shreds . He blamed Lola ,the dog in question ,the vet ,Gail went pale and then she was vexed. And poor Adam thinks ,whatever next… That was that sans his hat and off he goes to start his summer at his mate’s place. Still dreaming of the woman’s beautiful albeit frowning face.
This retired footballer of five years past has been roaming around . Now he’s found a place to surf and enjoy the beach life without any strife . He’s staying with his mate Daniel in a doghouse/ sleepout at the back of his property.The ocean is enticing and that’s how he intends to be dicing. He is a man with no firm plan. His mate is as carefree as he , only he’s taken ,see. Now he has a true love does he. Good thing that Adam is good with being solitary.
Gail the vet has taken on the responsibility of the cutest dog by the name of Lola from her owner who out of circumstances beyond his control can no longer home her, although he does care. So does Gail it seems and she’s taking good care until the shelter can take the dog in and then comes her rehoming. She much prefers the company of animals than the humankind. Set in her ways ,loves plays and runs on the sands. The dog just has certain personality traits and demands that not every potential owner would feel is great.Loved is all she needs and friendly is how she reads at any rate.
But as it happens ,their first meeting was a tad unfair in the end because seeing Adam with Lola once more she does adore seeing on further introduction by Daniel who she knows and has run into at the beach with his friend. “Not such a monster, are you, girl?” “No. Lola is a good dog. And sorry about your hat, by the way.”
Anyway the story goes that he’s in need of a fake date at any rate ,well not any rate he has met with a mean negotiator and has to do lots of vet practice jobs for her in return… only one good turn and before we know it . Their faces show that they know it’s a lie. With no alibi ,and witnesses . True love isn’t far away. Fake dating? No way…But is Adam here to stay ,change his destination to long term fixed abode instead of none for this hon?
How they end up fake dating ? Read and find out ,it’s a real shout out to this authors talents to draw you into their tale with long talons and clause ( yes I spelled it correct) because,what did you expect? She’s a terrific author who knows prose, not a monster with claws. This is not the book you’re seeking if you want one of those…. Francesca Spencer is indeed a dispenser ( I know but it does go) of good writing. Instantly immersive ,never cursive and inviting. Bravo 🙌🏻
This retired footballer of five years past has been roaming around . Now he’s found a place to surf and enjoy the beach life without any strife . He’s staying with his mate Daniel in a doghouse/ sleepout at the back of his property.The ocean is enticing and that’s how he intends to be dicing. He is a man with no firm plan. His mate is as carefree as he , only he’s taken ,see. Now he has a true love does he. Good thing that Adam is good with being solitary.
Gail the vet has taken on the responsibility of the cutest dog by the name of Lola from her owner who out of circumstances beyond his control can no longer home her, although he does care. So does Gail it seems and she’s taking good care until the shelter can take the dog in and then comes her rehoming. She much prefers the company of animals than the humankind. Set in her ways ,loves plays and runs on the sands. The dog just has certain personality traits and demands that not every potential owner would feel is great.Loved is all she needs and friendly is how she reads at any rate.
But as it happens ,their first meeting was a tad unfair in the end because seeing Adam with Lola once more she does adore seeing on further introduction by Daniel who she knows and has run into at the beach with his friend. “Not such a monster, are you, girl?” “No. Lola is a good dog. And sorry about your hat, by the way.”
Anyway the story goes that he’s in need of a fake date at any rate ,well not any rate he has met with a mean negotiator and has to do lots of vet practice jobs for her in return… only one good turn and before we know it . Their faces show that they know it’s a lie. With no alibi ,and witnesses . True love isn’t far away. Fake dating? No way…But is Adam here to stay ,change his destination to long term fixed abode instead of none for this hon?
How they end up fake dating ? Read and find out ,it’s a real shout out to this authors talents to draw you into their tale with long talons and clause ( yes I spelled it correct) because,what did you expect? She’s a terrific author who knows prose, not a monster with claws. This is not the book you’re seeking if you want one of those…. Francesca Spencer is indeed a dispenser ( I know but it does go) of good writing. Instantly immersive ,never cursive and inviting. Bravo 🙌🏻
July 16, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the author and though a review wasn’t required, I wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression of it.
This was a sweet little book where a man loses his hat in the wind and a dog gets it and chews it up! But he falls for the dog and the cute dog walker who just happens to be the vet in the town.
When some friends ask him to dinner he impulsively asks the vet, Gail, to be his fake girlfriend for the affair and she agrees if he’ll walk the dog, Lola, and help her at the clinic. She finds he’s somewhat a celebrity when her sister tells her who he is and that their grandpa was his biggest fan when he played pro ball. They go to her grandpa’s birthday celebration as well.
Spending time with Gail and Lola, Adam makes a decision about what his future wants to look like.
I enjoyed this short story of two people who meet by accident and find they do have a lot in common in ways no one has ever been in their lives before.
I heartily recommend this book as one I know you’ll enjoy reading as well! A chance encounter changes all their lives in ways they never saw coming!
This was a sweet little book where a man loses his hat in the wind and a dog gets it and chews it up! But he falls for the dog and the cute dog walker who just happens to be the vet in the town.
When some friends ask him to dinner he impulsively asks the vet, Gail, to be his fake girlfriend for the affair and she agrees if he’ll walk the dog, Lola, and help her at the clinic. She finds he’s somewhat a celebrity when her sister tells her who he is and that their grandpa was his biggest fan when he played pro ball. They go to her grandpa’s birthday celebration as well.
Spending time with Gail and Lola, Adam makes a decision about what his future wants to look like.
I enjoyed this short story of two people who meet by accident and find they do have a lot in common in ways no one has ever been in their lives before.
I heartily recommend this book as one I know you’ll enjoy reading as well! A chance encounter changes all their lives in ways they never saw coming!
July 21, 2026
Book Review
Fake Dating For The Summer
A Novella Written By Francesca Spencer
Fiction - Romance
Published July 2026
107 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a cute quick read. It is a closed door romance with older characters.
When the two main characters, Gail and Adam, first meet Adam does not give a great first impression. This story proves that first impressions aren’t always correct. The two become friends and agree to a fake dating situation.
This story has a great third character, a dog named Lola. Lola is a lovable matchmaker bringing Adam and Gail closer.
Adam and Gail’s love story reinforces that you never know when or where you will find love.
“This fake kiss is more real than anything I’ve experienced before in my life.”
Fake Dating For The Summer
A Novella Written By Francesca Spencer
Fiction - Romance
Published July 2026
107 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a cute quick read. It is a closed door romance with older characters.
When the two main characters, Gail and Adam, first meet Adam does not give a great first impression. This story proves that first impressions aren’t always correct. The two become friends and agree to a fake dating situation.
This story has a great third character, a dog named Lola. Lola is a lovable matchmaker bringing Adam and Gail closer.
Adam and Gail’s love story reinforces that you never know when or where you will find love.
“This fake kiss is more real than anything I’ve experienced before in my life.”
July 13, 2026
This is a charming midlife romcom. Gail is a veterinarian in the small beachside town. Which means there’s a sweet, loving dog named Lola, that will jump into your heart, and possibly eat your hat. It was a darling meet cute moment when Lola literally eats a strangers hat. That stranger is Adam, a former football star visiting an old friend for the summer. When Adam needs a fake date for a dinner party and Gail needs one for her grandfather‘s birthday, the obvious choice is to fake date for summer. The story is really cute, the characters are fun and it’s an easy quick read. It is part of an entertainment series, and can be read as a standalone.
July 14, 2026
A Sweet Summer Romcom
Fake Dating for the Summer was a fun and easy romance that was really enjoyable to settle into. The fake dating setup was entertaining, and I liked how Adam and Gail played off each other from the start. Their banter felt natural, and it was nice seeing their relationship develop alongside the small beach town atmosphere.
The supporting cast and the found family vibe added a lot of warmth to the story, and Lola definitely stole a few scenes. If you're looking for a light, feel good romcom with charming characters, this is a solid pick.
Thank you Francesca for the advanced copy, this is my honest review.
Fake Dating for the Summer was a fun and easy romance that was really enjoyable to settle into. The fake dating setup was entertaining, and I liked how Adam and Gail played off each other from the start. Their banter felt natural, and it was nice seeing their relationship develop alongside the small beach town atmosphere.
The supporting cast and the found family vibe added a lot of warmth to the story, and Lola definitely stole a few scenes. If you're looking for a light, feel good romcom with charming characters, this is a solid pick.
Thank you Francesca for the advanced copy, this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes & the author did it so well! Seriously such a cute story! I loved that the FMC was a veterinarian, as I haven’t read any veterinarian romances before! She falls for a former football player and their love is the sweetest! Don’t even get me started on the sweet dog, Lola, in this story and the outcome with her! 🥰🐕 Highly recommend if you want a quick, clean, fake-dating beach read with mature characters! Going to read more from this author now!
Thank you to the author for a gifted e-copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes & the author did it so well! Seriously such a cute story! I loved that the FMC was a veterinarian, as I haven’t read any veterinarian romances before! She falls for a former football player and their love is the sweetest! Don’t even get me started on the sweet dog, Lola, in this story and the outcome with her! 🥰🐕 Highly recommend if you want a quick, clean, fake-dating beach read with mature characters! Going to read more from this author now!
Thank you to the author for a gifted e-copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 19, 2026
This is a cute and clean, short romance.
Adam arrives in Rocky Point to stay with his friend. He has left football and has been wandering. He’s thinking that eventually he might want to stay in a town like this. He is on the beach when his hat is blown off a dog, Lola, takes it and shreds it. Gail, the local vet, believes it is his fault. They keep running into each other and he offers to help her if she will fake date him so he doesn’t have to get set up by his friends. Ill their friends believe it?
This was a cute story. I love fake dating tropes. The dog, Lola, was as much of the story as Adam and Gail. It was cute to see how they get along and what happens.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving an honest review.
Adam arrives in Rocky Point to stay with his friend. He has left football and has been wandering. He’s thinking that eventually he might want to stay in a town like this. He is on the beach when his hat is blown off a dog, Lola, takes it and shreds it. Gail, the local vet, believes it is his fault. They keep running into each other and he offers to help her if she will fake date him so he doesn’t have to get set up by his friends. Ill their friends believe it?
This was a cute story. I love fake dating tropes. The dog, Lola, was as much of the story as Adam and Gail. It was cute to see how they get along and what happens.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving an honest review.
July 7, 2026
Oh what a lovely story. An ex football player who loves to surf, a veterinarian and her cute dog just taking care of one pet at a time. One fake date in exchange for help at the clinic but we all know most of the time this can go great or wrong. But of course in this situation for Adam and Gail was all they both needed. Short, sweet and full of wonders♡
July 13, 2026
Very quick read. Loved the characters and the idea of the book but I think it could have been a longer read with the characters having more depth. Explaining more of the awkwardness of Gail or what happened to Adam to leave football. What is doing (work wise) at the end. Was he surfer? What did he do when he was traveling? This story wanted more details and depth for me to fully enjoy this story.
July 19, 2026
Fake Dating for the Summer by Francesca Spencer is a sweet mid-life romance for a career driven woman and a man who has lost his dream so now he is searching for another one. Having retired from football after an injury, Adam is footloose and fancy-free. Gail is a dedicated veterinarian. Two opposites that fit together perfectly which Lola, a foster dog, can see when these humans can’t. A cute, short read that is enjoyable especially seeing how Lola works her magic. Now I want to read more about the Rocky Point community.
July 22, 2026
This was super cute. I loved the way the main characters first met. It just set up such a fun little story. It really left everywhere in a feel good space. Lola was such a bright spot too. I giggled when she refused to walk! I received an advance copy from the author and am willingly leaving a review.
July 22, 2026
Gail is the local vet.
Adam is a football player who is trying to figure out what to do after he can no longer be a player.
They meet with a dog and a runaway hat.
This is a sweet story that follows this unlikely pair as the pr9vide fake dating for his friends, and for her family.
Sometimes it just takes a little dog to bring two people who weren't looking for anyone, find their someone.
Adam is a football player who is trying to figure out what to do after he can no longer be a player.
They meet with a dog and a runaway hat.
This is a sweet story that follows this unlikely pair as the pr9vide fake dating for his friends, and for her family.
Sometimes it just takes a little dog to bring two people who weren't looking for anyone, find their someone.
July 22, 2026
Lola is the perfect wing girl or should I say wind dog/cupid.
Love this dual pov story of vet Gail and former football player Adam. Both starting as friends meeting through Lola (a dog) but they both realise the need dates for 2 events - one for each. A plan is formed to fake date. But are plans meant to be broken?
Love this dual pov story of vet Gail and former football player Adam. Both starting as friends meeting through Lola (a dog) but they both realise the need dates for 2 events - one for each. A plan is formed to fake date. But are plans meant to be broken?
July 2, 2026
I received a digital ARC of this novella. I always enjoy Francesca’s sweet stories. Adam is a former NFL player who’s trying to figure out life after football. Gail is the small town vet. Their meet cute is the dog she’s walking eating his hat. How do they end up fake dating? Will it stay fake? You’ll have to read to find out! The downside to novellas is that they are over so quickly. The upside is that you can read them in an hour or so. Take a break and read this one!
July 6, 2026
Adam is a retired NFL football player looking for a place to call home. With plans to reconnect with a friend, surf and only stay the summer, he heads to the charming town of Rocky Point. But his quiet summer takes an unexpected turn after a hilarious rocky start with Gail, the local town vet (word of advice: don't yell at her dog!)
In no time, Gail and Adam begin a mutually beneficial fake dating rouse to discourage match making by well intended family members. And of course, fake dating turns real after a life changing kiss one night at a party.
You'll like this quick read if you like fake dating and midlife romances.
Thanks for the ARC of this book :)
In no time, Gail and Adam begin a mutually beneficial fake dating rouse to discourage match making by well intended family members. And of course, fake dating turns real after a life changing kiss one night at a party.
You'll like this quick read if you like fake dating and midlife romances.
Thanks for the ARC of this book :)
July 7, 2026
I always have a good time reading Francesca’s books! They give you that sweet and fun loving feeling after you are done reading them!
And who could love a story that involves a sweet a dog! Check out her books!
And who could love a story that involves a sweet a dog! Check out her books!
July 13, 2026
This was a sweet little story. Didn't take long to read. Pretty much the same as most Hallmark love stories. Boy meets girl, they dont care for each other, fake date fall in love and live happily ever after. A good pallet cleaner
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
A cute fake dating rom com. This is part of a community series and I look forward to seeking out the other ones
Adam and Gail have such a cute relationship. I loved the way the discovered each other before realizing where everything was heading.
Adam and Gail have such a cute relationship. I loved the way the discovered each other before realizing where everything was heading.
July 23, 2026
FAKE DATING FOR THE SUMMER by Francesca Spencer offers so much to enjoy with this fun addition to the Meet Cute Beach Reads series.
The reverse grumpy/sunshine energy, the ex-NFL Beach Bum and the No-Nonsense Vet opposites attract, Lola, the not so typical matchmaker,
he falls first, found family, Love Potion #9, and the “Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” kiss, all add up to a fun, entertaining beach read
you’re sure to enjoy!
I was able to read an advanced copy and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
The reverse grumpy/sunshine energy, the ex-NFL Beach Bum and the No-Nonsense Vet opposites attract, Lola, the not so typical matchmaker,
he falls first, found family, Love Potion #9, and the “Let’s Give Them Something to Talk About” kiss, all add up to a fun, entertaining beach read
you’re sure to enjoy!
I was able to read an advanced copy and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
July 23, 2026
A Sweet Summer Romcom
Fake Dating for the Summer was a fun and easy romance that was really enjoyable to settle into. The fake dating setup was entertaining, and I liked how Adam and Gail played off each other from the start. Their banter felt natural, and it was nice seeing their relationship develop alongside the small beach town atmosphere.
The supporting cast and the found family vibe added a lot of warmth to the story, and Lola definitely stole a few scenes. If you're looking for a light, feel good romcom with charming characters, this is a solid pick.
Thank you Francesca for the advanced copy, this is my honest review.
Fake Dating for the Summer was a fun and easy romance that was really enjoyable to settle into. The fake dating setup was entertaining, and I liked how Adam and Gail played off each other from the start. Their banter felt natural, and it was nice seeing their relationship develop alongside the small beach town atmosphere.
The supporting cast and the found family vibe added a lot of warmth to the story, and Lola definitely stole a few scenes. If you're looking for a light, feel good romcom with charming characters, this is a solid pick.
Thank you Francesca for the advanced copy, this is my honest review.
August 5, 2026
‘Fake Dating for the Summer’ was delightful. What could happen when two socially awkward people fake date? Apparently, a lot! Adam and Gail, the protagonists, had their work cut out for them in trying to reach their HEA. Overall, I liked the amusing novella.
July 13, 2026
A fun summer romance story. Two people, who feel like misfits, meet unexpectedly on the beach because of an overly active dog. Great short read.
July 18, 2026
Gail and Adam meet when Lola, the dog Gailis walking steals Adam’s cap and shreds it. They strike up a deal to fake date for the summer. A good book is one that makes you sigh when it’s over, this one sure did it for me. Loved the storyline and how easy it flowed to the end. Also the chemistry between Adam and Gail was off the charts. My favorite part was when Adam surprised Gail’s grandfather Lenny for his birthday. But the real star of the book was Lola the dog. I loved it!
July 23, 2026
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. He is a former football player trying to figure out his next steps in life after the game. She is the vet in the town he is visiting for the summer. Will what starts as a fake dating relationship turn into something more or will it just be a summer fling? This was such a delightful mid-life romance and Lola really stole the show. Loved it.
August 13, 2026
I like this mid life beach series. Liked the plot and the pup!
July 6, 2026
Omgosh I finished this book in one day !!! It was sooo good and so sweet !!!! I loved how they ended loving each other 🩷 I totally love Lola, she’s the sweetest ever .. I definitely recommend this story as well .. so far this series has been amazing !! Can not wait for the rest of them 🩷
July 16, 2026
A short and sweet summer read with loveable characters and a fake dating trope.
July 22, 2026
📚ARC Review📚
Fake Dating for the Summer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a mid-life, closed door romance that is so cute! I loved the banter between Adam and Gail. Lola, the adorable dog, makes for a great side character and a funny meet-cute. I also enjoyed the small beach town setting. This was a quick read and perfect for summer!
This book is part of the Midlife Meet Cute Beach Reads Collection. Thank you to the author for my advanced audiobook copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
Fake Dating for the Summer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a mid-life, closed door romance that is so cute! I loved the banter between Adam and Gail. Lola, the adorable dog, makes for a great side character and a funny meet-cute. I also enjoyed the small beach town setting. This was a quick read and perfect for summer!
This book is part of the Midlife Meet Cute Beach Reads Collection. Thank you to the author for my advanced audiobook copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews