Pretending to Be Yours

by Briegh Parker

Pretending to Be Yours is a sweet and spicy sapphic romance about two friends who discover the best kind of love stories are the ones that take you by surprise. Perfect for fans of Alexandria Bellefleur and Haley Cass.

After breaking up with her cheating ex-boyfriend, Paige Raven wants one thing: to rock climb in peace. She switches gyms, only for her ex to follow her and bring the stares and whispers with him. Thankfully, he keeps his distance when Paige climbs with her new friend, Remi Johnson.

When Paige learns Remi is in need of a date for an upcoming wedding, she comes up with the wild idea of them pretending to be in a relationship. It’s perfect. Remi will have someone by her side for the wedding and Paige’s ex will finally leave her alone.

With Paige questioning her sexuality and her anxiety over her lack of experience with women rising, Remi suggests their fake dating arrangement should include flirting lessons and practice dates. A totally friendly offer to help build Paige’s confidence.

As the two spend more time together in and out of the gym, the only thing Paige becomes confident in is … her feelings for Remi. But with how often Remi brings up Paige dating other women when their arrangement is over, does Remi feel the same way or will their fake relationship end in heartbreak?

Genres: Lesbian, Romance, LGBT, Contemporary

185 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 4, 2026

Reviews

[Clara Addicted to sapphic books · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a reading slump, this book was exactly what I needed. Short and effective. The writing is smooth and easy to read. From the start, Parker goes straight to the point; the two main characters already know each other, and the fake dating scheme comes up immediately. Then, it's a succession of scenes where the characters get close, and it was really sweet to read. There is no silly miscommunication or third act break up which is really enjoyable. The chemistry is pretty good, and so is the spice. Remi's past was sad and added a layer to the book. I didn't remember Remi from the first book, but I was so glad to see Dakota and Casey again. I just wished Paige questioning her sexuality was more developed, but it's a consequence of the short length. Overall, another very enjoyable book from Parker.

[Montes · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was such a cute story. Not just of romance but also of realizing feeling, accepting queerness, learning to live with grief and accepting the love you deserve.

Fake dating is always such a good trope and when you add that one of the characters already did want to date but thought it was impossible and the other character was in the middle of her queer awakening, it’s delicious. The spice was done right and the chemistry was undeniable. Once the flirting and dating lessons was introduced to me in a sapphic book a few years ago, I’ve never been able to let it go as one of my favorite parts of a book. 

I liked the inclusion of a character that has passed away and how that guilt and grief still hold them from finding love and how Remi can recognize in therapy that they are their own roadblock to finding happiness. I love when a character goes to therapy and knows what’s they have to work on and how far they’ve come. 

Thank you to Briegh Parker for providing me with an eARC.

[Jae Alistar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretending to Be Yours had me clipped in from the start with its fake dating, friends-to-lovers romance, and a late-in-life coming-out journey. Briegh Parker delivers a feel-good sapphic romance full of warmth, vulnerability, and two women I couldn't help but become invested in as they found their footing together. Paige and Remi's story is the kind that makes you want to cheer them through every hurdle, trust fall, and leap of faith.

Paige and Remi are two women who both know how to put on a brave face while quietly carrying so much underneath. Paige is all sass and sunshine on the outside, but beneath that is someone learning to trust all over again. She’s navigating the complexity of coming out later in life, the fear of not belonging, and letting herself be vulnerable in ways she never expected. Remi is undeniably witty and confident on the surface, but quietly shouldering years of grief, loss, self-blame, and the weight of how it’s all shaped a lifetime of relationships. Her instinct to care for and support the people she loves never wavers. Their individual journeys felt so honest and I loved that both women’s instincts were to show up for each other while still offering the space to process pain without ever trying to rush the healing.

What I loved most about Paige and Remi's relationship was that it was built on a genuine friendship before anything else. They take the time to understand each other, not just who they are now, but everything that shaped them into who they’ve become. Remi gives Paige the freedom to figure out her feelings on her own terms, while Paige gives Remi the patience and understanding she needs to continue navigating her grief without ever making her feel like a burden. I loved seeing Remi's full, unwavering adoration for Paige contrasted with the way Paige had been made to feel like she was merely tolerated in past relationships. Their chemistry is sweet, steamy, and full of desire, but the care and compassion between them is what truly makes this romance shine.

Additionally, every side character added something meaningful to Paige and Remi's story. From immensely supportive friends in Elena and Kennedy, unconditionally accepting parents, to the toxic douche-canoe-ex everyone loves to hate. I also appreciated how naturally the climbing backdrop was woven into the story, giving their emotional climb perfectly relevant parallels without ever overshadowing the journey.

Pretending to Be Yours is the kind of romance that leaves you feeling warm and hopeful. Sometimes the best relationships are built from brave reaches, steady anchors, and all the small moments where two people choose to show up for each other. Paige and Remi's story is full of kindness, vulnerability, and genuine care, and finished off with a firm hold on me.

Thank you so much to the author for the chance to read this ARC!

Favorite Quotes:
"It’s always bothered [her] that brown eyes don’t get enough love, especially when looking at [hers]. They are a rich chocolate, as smooth and comforting as a morning cup of coffee on a rainy day. They are undeniably beautiful, and, right now, they are full of something—hope? Vulnerability?"

"Grief doesn't have an end date; grief isn’t linear. Sometimes the pain is a tidal wave that pulls [you] under, and it’s a struggle to resurface. Other times it’s a calm swell that barely lifts [you] off the sand."

"You have so many people in your life who love and support you. [Y]our found family will always be there."

"But being here—with you—it feels like where I'm supposed to be. It feels like what I want the rest of my life to look like. You make me feel seen, understood, and accepted. You make me feel safe."

"[S]he thought she knew what it meant to be in love, but now she knows she never once came close before."

[kay.grace424 · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75⭐️

I love a Briegh Parker novella! They give you everything you love about your classic romances but in a much shorter page count. I love these books, specifically because they are perfect for impatient or busy readers who don’t have the time to commit to a full-length romance novel. This latest novella is certainly no exception to the trend.

This was everything I was hoping and expecting it to be. It was fun, it was whimsical, it was spicy, it was emotional, and all within less than 200 pages. These books are perfect for reading in one sitting before bed, before going to work the next day, because you can have a fun time consuming a whole story at once. For readers who miss the days of being a kid reading a whole book in one sitting during summer break, reading these books in one sitting is a great way to recapture that feeling. This novella had a great mix of sweet and heavier moments. There were elements of classic romance (the one-bed trope never fails), while it also carried an emotional arc about grief and healing.

My one caveat is that the intensity of Remy’s arc about grief felt too hard to tackle within the shortened page count. I said in my review of the author’s previous novella that the price you pay with these books is that the pace is really quick and thus the story sometimes feels undercooked, which I attribute to the page count. But my thought is, if you know this ahead of time and are aware of that price, it’s more than worth it; however, if you are anticipating the story to be fleshed out to the same level as a full-length novel, then you’d be disappointed because the page count doesn’t allow for it. But again, for the reasons I’ve stated previously for these books, it's worth it to me. I did, however, feel that the topic for this book in particular was simply too vast for this page count. With an arc like Remy’s about guilt and grief that’s complicated and still in the process of healing, I longed for the book to be longer so we could spend more time with that instead of it resolving relatively quickly to stay within the shorter page count. I think Remy’s arc is a great one, and I would’ve happily read more about it in a longer book; I think for this format it was too big a bite for it to feel like a satisfying resolution.

My previous point is literally my only complaint. I genuinely get so excited for Briegh Parker's book announcements because I love these romance novellas, and I hope this author continues to write more and/or a full-length novel someday. I recommend this book and the other novellas to lovers of sapphic romances, as well as people facing a reading slump, a busy schedule, or looking to get into reading more seriously as a hobby. This book is fast-paced and fun, spicy and sweet, heartfelt and earnest, and ticks all the boxes you look for in a novel, within a novella.

Thank you to Briegh Parker for the advanced copy! I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

🌶️🌶️🌶️(several spicy scenes within a shorter page count)

[Finding Sky Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things I loved:
♡ Fake dating - one of my favourite tropes and it never fails
♡ exploring sexuality - this was so well done and I love how gentle everything was between them and how natural it felt
♡ learning to love again after loss - Remi working through her grief told such a beautiful story and whilst yes, it was heartbreaking it was beautifully healing
♡ The spice - seriously the spice in this book is truly gosh, just, everything you could want and need
♡ one bed - I was quite literally squeeling when this came up and giddy about the whole scene
♡ Literally everything

Detailed thoughts:
These characters have an absolute grip on my heart, I fell in love with both of them! This book grabbed my attention immediately and I became invested in the story that blooms between Paige and Remi. Paige is ... straight but can't explain the butterflies she feels when she sees Remi, and their friendship has been growing. Let's just say that she's NOT STRAIGHT AT ALL, cishet strikes again. Baby girl is so queer and it was beautiful to see her find herself and explore her sexuality with someone so patient and understanding as Remi. Remi has her own grief and as a result basically sabotages herself. So when these two decide to fake date to benefit the both of them, Paige as a date to Remis friend's wedding, and Remi helping page 'practice dating and flirting' OF COURSE ITS EVERYTHING. AGH, this whole book is just perfection. I related so heavily to Paige, with cishet conditioning but also just generally. Her experience with past relationships and the men in those relationships were terrible and honestly I can relate to so much of those details. She was such an incredibly loveable character and I was rooting for her continuously. Remi, wow, Remi had me gay panicking and swooning CONSTANTLY and just wow. I swear, she brought the heat, her flirting, that side smirk, her talking Paige through *things* the praise, just HER IN GENERAL. That tattoo scene. WOW. I just, wow. The scene on the field. Agh, I can't say too much but this book, it's so heartwarming and get also tells a story of grief and learning to let love in again. About exploring your sexuality and coming out later in life. About friendship and about new connections and opening up your heart to new possibilities. Briegh does it all and does it so freaking well. I cannot praise this book enough, I highly recommend.


What didn't work for me:
I could live in a world with them, so the literally only thing I can say is I would LOVE for it to have been longer.


Memorable quote:
Remi interlaces their fingers. “I know you got this.” Then she smiles crookedly. “And if you fall, I’ll catch you.”

[The Sapphic Shelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Confession Time: I’m a sucker for the fake dating trope, but I’m an even bigger sucker for the messy middle where everyone’s lying to themselves about their feelings. It’s a true testament to Briegh Parker’s writing that Pretending to Be Yours still won me over even without that particular flavor of chaos.

In this novella, Remi and Paige both know what they feel almost from the jump. There’s no slow-burn denial phase, no one convincing themselves it’s “just pretend.” Instead, the fake dating premise becomes more of a soft launch into the real thing, and it works because of their chemistry. If you’re someone who lives for that agonizing will-they-won’t-they tension, this might read a bit different than you’re used to. But if you want the warmth of two people who are just clearly, obviously good for each other, you’re in the right place.

What I appreciated most is that Parker doesn’t let either woman just be the love interest. Remi is carrying real grief, and watching her slowly let herself want love again is genuinely the emotional backbone of the book. Meanwhile Paige is doing her own work, sitting with her anxiety and stepping into a queer awakening that feels truly tender. They’re not just falling for each other. They’re actively helping each other heal, and that reciprocity is what elevates this past a standard fake dating romp.

My only real critique was the pacing. Because there’s so much happening, the tension building up throughout the book tended to surface and resolve almost immediately, which occasionally left moments feeling a little flatter than they could’ve been. With the amount of story packed in, both Remi’s grief and Paige’s self-discovery deserved a bit more room to breathe. To me, this sits in an odd in-between area in terms of length. Felt a bit long and detailed for a novella, but also a bit too short and hurried for a novel (though the plotlines definitely could’ve supported a full novel).

TLDR: A sweet, fast-moving fake dating romance where the tension isn’t in the will-they-won’t -they, but in the parallel healing. Would love some more room to sit with these characters and their stories, but it definitely still lands.

✨ Thank you to Briegh Parker for sending this review copy! All thoughts are my own. Grab a copy of Pretending to Be Yours when it comes out on 8/4! ✨

[Alice Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy shit, okay this was my first Briegh Parker book, but definitely not my last, wow. It was fucking INCREDIBLE, like truly, I never wanted it to end, it was amazing. Every second held my attention, I loved Paige and Remi so much. Remi is now one of my favourite FMCs, my heart literally broke for her, what an amazing character, in every way. I can't even begin to imagine how hard it was her to lose Anna. Loss of any kind is hard but damn, that kinda loss can mess you up and sure Remi isn't perfect, but she's about as close as it gets. Seeing her stand up for Paige literally the first time they met showed how good she was for me, what is with men and their audacity? Like seriously, where do they find it?

And come on, falling for a straight girl has gotta be rough, but boy was she patient with Paige as she realised she wasn't as straight as she used to believe, it's a real big adjustment for anyone, but especially when you're not so young anymore. It makes you feel as though you've been living a lie in a way, and she handled it so well, sure with Remi's help, but there's only so much Remi could help her with. I loved her coming out moment with her parents, it was so cute to me.

They're for sure one of my favourite couples, seeing how patient Remi was with Paige's fear of heights, and the way she helped her through it was cute as fuck. I couldn't decide if I wanted to BE Remi or be WITH Remi, honestly? I'd probably choose to be with her. They were there for each other through it all, the way Paige showed up for Remi when she visited Anna, well that was something else, especially her figuring out where she was, that was something special. I have to admit that moment absolutely WRECKED me, Joey was giving me evils for crying while he was trying to sleep. But the moment Remi saw Paige waiting for her? Fuck me, I'm not sure I'll ever emotionally recover from that.

Okay, I'll shut up now, but go read this book (when it's out obviously)

Thank you so much for my ARC copy 🩵

[Lilith Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really sweet, heartwarming, easy to read romance! Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes and I found myself heavily hooked from the very start to the very finish. So much so that realizing there was no more chapters took me by surprise!
One could say I wish there would be more to it...

Paige and Remi have nice dynamics happening from the start and the opportunity to suggest fake dating comes up under the most convenient excuses (as it always does!), allowing for some really funny and sweet moments along the way.
Both characters are self-aware there's some level of feelings involved from the start, so one is entirely innocent in this shenanigan, and that absolutely adds to the tension that keeps on building up, up and up! Until they come to consider that maybe... the feelings are mutual.

In parallel there's a side story to Remi's past, heavy on grief and trauma, but it was balanced with the way Paige has a soft caring heart - it was endearing and managed in a light way that did not overtook the rest of the plot, however, I wish that could have been explored a little deeper in some moments.

Despite that, they get to be there for each other in more ways than one, and Remi steps up to support with the self-discovery Paige is going through, and there's a simply perfect fit to them...

If you like the fluff, you'll enjoy this book! I sure did!
Very much idiots in love!

I would like to thank you the author for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.

[Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fake dating is one of my fave tropes, and I know I say that about a lot of tropes, but I mean it each and every time!
Remi and Paige meet at their climbing gym and become friends after Remi tells off Paige's ex-boyfriend who despite cheating on her, wants her back.
As their friendship deepens Paige is questioning her sexuality, because being with Remi makes her feel things she's never felt before. When Remi needs a date to an ex's wedding it's the perfect opportunity to do a test run of dating a woman for Paige.
The friends to lovers is written so naturally and wonderfully, taking shared moments and making them deeper and more meaningful. I was able to see the friendship blossom into a relationship where they communicated and respected each other's pasts. They just fit and it was everything I could have wanted for them both.
The sensitivity written into Paige's character with how she leaves space in their relationship for Remi to still care and lover Anna, her first girlfriend who'd died in a crash the summer before college was refreshing. There wasn't jealousy, just room for all her memories.
The only negative for me was that it ended too soon. I wasn't ready to move on from Remi and Paige. I guess that can also be a positive, the whole leave them wanting more. It just was a little too sudden for my liking.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of fake dating, positive coming out stories, and falling for your "straight" friend.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced digital copy to read and be able to provide an honest review.

[sapphicliteratureirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the title suggests, this is a sapphic fake dating romance 💖 The story follows the dual perspectives of Paige and Remi, two rock-climbing friends where one needs a wedding date and the other needs some distance from a horrible ex.

After some swoony ex-blocking, sharing carabiners and laughs, Paige and Remi agree to fake date. I was a little worried for Remi though – fake dating someone you actually fancy?! 🫣 And then there's "teaching her how to flirt with women" as she navigates a queer awakening, all out of the kindness of your heart... oof 🙃

Thankfully, it doesn't take long for us to find out the attraction is mutual. Paige is just as much of a fool with a crush, which makes the dramatic irony so much fun as you wait for them both to realise how they feel.

There's a little bit of emotional angst with finding love after loss, but generally it's a light, fun story that genuinely made me laugh a few times – especially when Paige innocently opens Remi's drawers 👀 and when the parents start taking advice from the internet.

I also loved seeing them as wedding dates and gradually opening up to each other. And I really enjoyed how Remi encourages Paige to achieve things, both big and small. I love sapphics supporting and pushing each other to grow. I liked what the author was doing with the whole "learning to fall" rock-climbing metaphor. And I certainly enjoyed the 🔥🌶️ too ("eyes on me" and "good girl" 🫠)

This is my third read in the series, and they've all been fun, steamy romances filled with sapphic joy, lovable characters, and plenty of heart 💖

[CtrlAltRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet, vulnerable and heartfelt friends to lovers romance.

As someone who is an absolute sucker for later in life coming out stories, this was definitely my cup of tea. There is something so tender about watching a character slowly step closer to themselves, especially when that journey is wrapped in friendship and trust.

Paige was such a lovely character to read. She is sassy and sweet, but underneath that there is so much vulnerability shaped by what she has been through. Remi, on the other hand, brings confidence, protectiveness and quick remarks that made their dynamic feel so easy to enjoy. I really liked the way they balanced each other.

What I appreciated most was how honest their story felt. Both women are dealing with personal things in the background, but there is a real understanding between them. They give each other space when it is needed, without losing that care and connection between them.

The spice also worked really well for me. It was hot, but it had meaning. Every intimate scene felt like it belonged to where they were emotionally in the relationship, rather than being there just for the sake of it.

Even though this was an easy read, it still managed to hit me emotionally. I may or may not have shed a few tears through certain chapters, because some moments really did connect with my feelings.

Overall, I really enjoyed this. It was soft, spicy, emotional and full of heart. A beautiful friends to lovers romance about vulnerability, trust, coming out, and being loved in a way that gives you room to be yourself.

4 ⭐️| 3🌶️

[Duskvioletnova · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a climber myself, who has been looking for a sapphic sports romance book around climbing, I was so happy when I saw this book, and it did not disappoint.

Starting off with Paige and Remi, the main characters. I really liked Paige, and the way she, and all her struggles, were written. She puts on a brave face, but underneath she is struggling with her new reality. Then there is Remi who, despite looking tough and confident, is grieving and struggling to undo years of self-blame.
Both women are strong and resilient, but are learning to be vulnerable with each other.
I also really liked that they also had their own story going on, apart from the parts where they were together, and that those parts felt equally, if not more) important.

All the side characters were meaningful and brought something unique to the story, while also having their own lives and stories going on.

Like I said, I’m a climber myself, so of course I loved the climbing gym setting. It also felt realistic, the way they were hyping each other up, and doing the projects together.

The story itself was really nice, and I especially liked the way their dynamic started from a really good friendship, built on mutual respect and vulnerability.

I received a free copy of this book through the author and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[emily.reads.sapphic · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, thank you to Briegh Parker for the eARC copy!
Y’alls, Briegh Parker has done it again! I genuinely cannot recommend her books enough. She is able to write short stories that have characters that are fully developed plus a cohesive plot plus spice plus emotional depth plus longing plus we get both MCs POVs which is hard to find in short books. All together makes an incredible story.
Pretending to Be Yours is Remi (who we met in Yours For The Weekend- Cassie & Dakota’s story) and Paige’s (new to us) story. I am SO happy that we got more of Remi! Both Remi, who is openly gay, and Paige, who is starting to question her sexuality, are both indoor rock climbers. They now go to the same climbing gym since Paige was trying to get away from her cheating ex boyfriend... who followed her to her new gym and wouldn’t back off. After Remi stepped in to protect Paige from her ex, they quickly formed a friendship. There is also the fact that Remi is needing a date to Cassie and Dakota’s wedding (I’m SO happy we got this part of their story!!).

And then the proposal to fake date came up- Remi would help Paige get her ex to back off and Paige would be Remi’s date to the wedding. Part of the agreement is that Remi would help Paige with flirting lessons and practice dates. Each of these lessons and practices were just so sweet and thoughtful. Their friendship grew and grew and grew...into romantic feelings, of course. Speaking of friends, Remi’s best friend and roommate, Elena (whose story I would love to see someday) was there to run interference when it was necessary, but in a non-gross-meddling type of way. She and Remi went through the unimaginable together when they tragically lost their friend. Grief is one of those things in books that I’m picky about how it’s portrayed in books, and I will just say it is written in a painfully beautiful way. I could really feel what Remi was going through and how it upended her life- it definitely had me crying (especially that scene). I won’t say more on this cause I don’t wan to accidentally spoil anything.
What I will talk about how the spice SPICED!

I love a good “teaching her” micro trope. Since Paige had not been with a woman, of course Remi offered. Let me tell you that it was sweet and tender and h.o.t. and well, there may have been an interruption by a very unexpected visitor 😂
I want to blab on some more, but I will stop here. Anyway, I HIGHLY recommend reading Pretending to Be Yours when it releases on August 4th! Oh also, it mayyyy be a good idea to also read Yours For The Weekend and Yours For The Night, not just because they are both wonderful reads, but to also be introduced to Remi and get to know Cassie and Dakota (can be found on KU)!

Some more things I loved:
- Remi's mom decompressing with soduku (same 😂)
- Getting caught 🥵👀🤣
- Baking for her 🧁
- Navigating grief after losing a significant other 💙
- The way the cheating ex boyfriend was delt with 👏🏻
- Encouragement and support, especially when navigating and overcoming fears 😊
- Teaching her 👀
- "Practice" dates ✨️
- Hidden tattoos 🫠🔥
- The fake dating + friends to lovers + only one bed combo 🤌🏻✨️
- Dancing at Cassie and Dakota’s wedding 🥹😭
- Inn Manager & Teacher 🏘🏫
- "I kissed you because I couldn't go one more second not knowing what it felt like to have your lips pressed into mine." 🥹

[Lens_and_Lit Sapphic Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this fake dating romance.

Whether it started as a way to see what it was like dating a woman or simply to keep a mother happy, watching it unravel into something real was an absolute joy.

It was very much a “I like her… she doesn’t like me… wait, she likes me?!” kind of romance, and I was completely invested.

The chemistry between Remi and Paige was beautiful. I loved Remi’s confidence, especially when she leaned into a little dirty talk, and I loved even more watching Paige slowly find her own confidence and give it right back. It never felt forced—it felt like two women learning to trust each other enough to be completely themselves.

But it was the vulnerability that stole my heart. The quiet conversations, the care they showed one another, and the way Remi’s heart seemed to race every time Paige got a little too close. Even when Remi forgot something that meant so much to her, her first concern was still whether Paige would be okay. Those are the moments that make a romance unforgettable.

This entire book had me smiling from beginning to end.

Beautifully written, wonderfully emotional, and another brilliant story by @brieghparkerauthor 📸📚

🧡🤍🩷 Go on pre-order Remi and Paige’s story and see how it all unfolds

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another cute novella from this author. I've not been let down once, she's becoming an auto read/buy. I love how she let this one unfold slowly. Paige is dealing with her cheating ex boyfriend Tyler. She's trying to focus on her rock climbing. Remi helps Paige with said ex. This sparks their deal, to fake date and be a wedding plus one. Each FMC is dealing with their own insecurities.

I was really rooting for them. It was fun to see Paige come to terms with her expanding sexuality. Especially taking lessons from Remi. The tension between them was palpable and their eventual acceptance of it was done well. Remi had a lot of patience, for everyone but herself. I was happy to see her learning to deal with her grief.

As always, my only small gripe is that the stories should be longer. I love this world and want my time here to be extended, I guess I'll just have to settle for the next book in the series.

Tropes and triggers: bi-awakening, dirty talk, "eyes on me", fake dating, toaster oven, friends to lovers, found family, grief, one bed

I was given an advanced copy for an honest review.

[Solely Sapphic Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
Duel 3rd Person POV. 4.5🌟 3🌶️. 185 pages
3 Spicy Scenes

This was such a cute, fast paced read and it had me routing for Remi and Paige from the very beginning.

I fell in love with Remi when she briefly appeared in Yours for the Weekend and I was over joyed that she was finally getting her happy ending.

Pretending to be Yours covered so much ground in such a short page span. With Remi dealing with real grief and guilt, and Paige coming to terms with the fact that she isn’t as straight as she thought she was, and Parker handles both of these things in such a way that it’ll have you shedding tears in parts.

I throughly enjoyed this little nugget, with its fluff, some harder topics and little dashes of spice thrown in there. This was another great release from Briegh Parker and I cannot wait to see what’s next.

Pretending to be Yours will be released August 4th. If you enjoy fast paced, fluffy romances that touch on some deeper topics, but also keep it light with dashes of spice, then id highly recommend checking it out!

Things to Expect:
📚Book 3
❤️Fake Dating
💔Grief
😏Sexual Awakening
💕Friends to Lovers
😬Coming Out
❤️‍🩹Low Angst

[Eclectic Queer Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the shortest ARC I've read so far but it didn't lack any of the captivating emotions. This storyline was so cute with a twist of heartbreak and humor which is right up my alley when it comes to sapphic romance. The MCs Paige and Remi were so supportive and sweet together you couldn't help but swoon over them the entire book but especially starting at that wedding dance scene/afterwards they had some spicy moments during this books development which was very nice. I loved how in the middle of their love developing they had a few realistic issues but it only made them stronger together. I absolutely love the side characters Elena and Kenendy because not only did they bring some diversity into the story they are funny, enjoyable and a welcoming splash of happiness throughout the book. This was a quick but nice breathe of fresh air to give you a warm feeling between books and if you need a little boost of HEA with a few splashes of realism this is for you. I will definitely re-read. These opinions and thoughts are all my own. Thanks again to the Author.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

The whole setting with Paige ending things with another shitty boyfriend and because of that starts looking at the option dating women and that Remi in exchange for Paige pretending to be her girlfriend at a wedding offers to train her to flirt with women is a fun idea. Obvious from the beginning that this can end up being so much more than a fake relationship.

Paige soon realizes she is interested in Remi, but Remi is still struggling with the loss off her first girlfriend 12 years earlier. She has only gone with relationships that are determined to fail from the beginning. With Paige another outcome may be possible.

I loved how Paige and Remi connected. They worked so well as friends but also as more than that, their chemistry is fire from the very beginning even though it is supposed to be all pretend.

I would have loved if the book had been longer so possible to go deeper into Paige and especially Remi’s past, but I enjoyed the read a lot.

I received a free ARC from the author and leave an honest review voluntarily.

[Andrea (looseleftlesbian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the ARC! This is the first book by Briegh Parker that I’ve read and I am disappointed that I haven’t read any of her other works sooner! This was so freaking good!

I was a little apprehensive because I wasn’t aware that it was a novella. I love novellas, but I am always left with wanting more. I was left with wanting a little more in Pretending to Be Yours. Literally the only issue I have is that I felt like it abruptly ended.

I don’t understand how these authors can pack such amazing character development and depth in such a short amount of pages. We got background on both MCs and it was meaningful as well. Pretending to Be Yours tackles grief and compulsive heterosexuality so well. There’s was so much more to this love story than love and the way the author portrayed that was beautiful. The side characters, especially the best friends of the MCs were people I appreciated as well. Their roles weren’t big in the book but impactful.

I can’t wait to read the other two books. I also love the Michigan reference in this. Go Blue!

[Mary McCleaf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every book by Briegh Parker is a HIT! I was so excited to receive an ARC of this book. The two main characters were easy to fall in love with and I felt like I truly related to Paige. I came out late in life and struggled with my identity. I had a crush on a co-worker and had never been with another woman before. I felt that because I never had a girlfriend, there’s no way a 27 year old could be gay. My girlfriend is my very own Remi. I loved Paige and Remi’s relationship and love how Remi made Paige feel normal in her feelings. Their fake romance is so fun and it helps build up their innocent love that they have for one another. Im always a sucker for fake romance and friends-to-lovers tropes. Especially if it’s not a slow burn. Slow burns are fun, but thankfully this romance took off quick. This book is a great read if you’re looking for a lighthearted romance with tons of spice thrown in! I love the first time romance, faking dating/friends > lovers, and love after loss themes. Now to take up rock climbing 🤨

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew signing up for this ARC was a great idea. I love Briegh's writing, and I love how she captures so much in less than 200 pages. 

Remi is our masc hottie who tells off a random guy at the climbing gym that she and Paige, our fresh out of a shitty relationship hottie, regularly go to. She's instantly warm and attentive, even going so far as to purposefully put herself between Paige and her ex multiple times. 

Paige is sweet, a bit naivë, and desperately trying to get her cheating ex to leave her alone. When she and Remi become friends, she suggests pretending to date. 

As things progress, both of them realize that they feel more for one another than just faking it and they dance around it for a while. 

Remi does have a little baggage, but honestly, it's handled so perfectly, and it makes you really feel for Remi. 

Honestly, I think this is Briegh's best book so far, and I can't wait for more!

[Brandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This heartwarming sapphic romance follows Paige, seeking peace after a bad breakup. She finds herself in a surprising fake-dating arrangement with her friend, Remi. What starts as a convenient way to deter an unwanted ex and provide Remi a wedding date quickly deepens, especially when flirting lessons spark unexpected feelings in Paige as she navigates her later in life coming out.

Paige and Remi's connection is built on genuine friendship, evolving into a beautiful exploration of vulnerability, trust, and the power of mutual support. Their journey is a delightful blend of wit, spice, and profound emotional honesty, making it impossible not to cheer for them. Briegh Parker delivers a fast-paced, feel-good romance that leaves readers hopeful and fully invested in the evolving relationship between two women learning to embrace love on their own terms. It’s the perfect, impactful read for anyone craving a concise yet deeply satisfying love story.

[Samantha Jo Anderton · Rating 5 out of 5]

In love with Remi and Paige! This has two of my favorite tropes, fake dating and friends to lovers, and I adored how well Briegh executed them! The characters felt real and genuine and like someone I would want to be friends with! She did such a good job displaying their chemistry as friends and as more as that developed. I felt like their relationship grew so organically and they were able to navigate outside conflicts so well together and individually. This can be read as a stand alone but there is a connection to her another of her books, Yours for the Weekend, so I recommend reading that one first! The only complaint I have is that I wish it was longer, I could hang out in their world forever!! Don’t sleep on this one!

Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[RomanceReadingJess · Rating 4 out of 5]

4-4.5 stars.
Thank you to Briegh Parker for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I had the best time with this book! I loved that we got to really get to know Remi after meeting her in Yours for the Weekend. The chemistry between the characters was evident right away and I loved seeing their tension build. The spice was top notch, as always, but It was actually a little more emotional than I was expecting, so I even shed a tear or two. If I had one critique, it would be that I wish it was just a bit longer, to maybe see Remi get to meet Paige’s family in the end. It seemed to end a little more abruptly than I wanted. This one is short, less than 200 pages of a good time and I definitely recommend.

[Marina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book I’ve read by this author. She always delivers well thought out characters and an engaging plot, but this time she’s managed to convey even more emotion. The writing style is different from the first two books, third person perspective. I think I prefer the style of the first two, told in first person, alternating point of views from the main characters.

The relationship develops beautifully through the book. No third act breakup, plenty character development.

The author is 3 for 3. Beautiful love story well told. The fake dating trope was actually very believable! I really enjoyed this story, but given the author and her previous work, I expected nothing less than to be delighted. I can’t wait for more from her.

[Stuffl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Briegh Parker’s books never disappoint. This novella is no exception. Paige and Remi are two lovable characters I liked right away. The chemistry was delicious, and the spice was just right.

Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes, and I was thrilled to see it in this book. I wish it had taken a little longer for the fake dating to turn into real dating. The pace was a bit too fast for me.

I’m always fascinated by how much depth Breigh gives her characters—all within 180 pages. Even though it’s a novella, I still feel like I know Remi and Paige very well.

All in all, a really sweet, heartwarming, lighthearted, and spicy novella that you shouldn’t miss.

Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!!

[Blaire Larken · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet-ass (but also *not* because 🌶️🌶️🌶️) read this was.

These two possibly take the cake for the two most oblivious idiots in fiction, because honestly, with all the flirting and the kissing how could there be any confusion!? But Briegh writes this situation so well that you have absolutely no choice but to believe that two people so infatuated with each other managed to remain so clueless for so long.

Remi is hot AF and another one of Briegh’s soft little mascs who must be protected at all costs. Paige is confident and not at all phased by the fact that she’s unreasonably attracted to Remi. Basically they’re perfect.

Also, a novel involving sport climbing—can’t go wrong. 5 stars, no notes. Thanks, for the ARC!

[Maddie Weeks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was accepted by Breigh Parker to be a part of the ARC team for Pretending To Be Yours and below is my honest review.

This was a trope filled sapphic romance that had me reading the other two in the series straight after - I was that hooked.

Pretending To Be Yours follows characters Remi and Paige who meet at their gym. Remi needs a date to a wedding and Paige is newly single.. let the fake dating commence!

I think both Remi and Paige are brilliant characters. I love how unapologetic they both are. Paige discovers that she may not be as straight as she originally thought and the way she explores/realises her sexuality is written so well.

We’ve got friends to lovers, fake dating, only one bed and found family. When I say trope filled - I mean it! Sometimes too many tropes can make a story feel cheesy but not here, I think it’s very well executed.

I just wish this was longer - it’s a bite sized novella but the pacing made it feel like it should have been longer. I would have loved more.

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a trope filled sapphic romance.

I give this 4.5 stars!

Thank you Breigh for allowing me to read and review!

[MA · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first rule of fake dating is “don’t fall for the other person”. If this were true then Remi and Paige failed miserably. So, truthfully, they won.

The journey starts as a friendship at a rock climbing gym. Paige is coming off another bad break up with a boyfriend and Remi lends a supportive ear.

Soon, they decide to pretend that they’re a couple and in the process, find their way to being a real couple.

Briegh Parker has an easy style as a writer. The journey of the main characters is well thought out and she does a great job mixing the drama with the sweetness. Not to mention there’s plenty of heat in this latest book too.

I highly recommend ‘Pretending to be Yours’. It’s a good blend of longing and love that is perfect to curl up on the couch with and enjoy.

[Shannon bagnall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing. I LOVE that we got to see more of Dakota and Casey’s relationship, it was so lovely.

This book was heartbreaking in the best ways, the way it spoke about grief and feeling you have to stop talking about them to new relationships hit so hard. Remi blaming herself broke my heart but I truly understand how she feels.

Paige’s coming out was also lovely, the fact her mum did research was adorable, I wish more parents were like that.

Overall such a great book, another great one from this author and can’t wait to read more

* full disclosure I was given this book in exchange for an honest review*