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Falling for Autumn
Fall Fake-Out
The relationship is fake. The feelings are not.
Ari Langford thought rock bottom looked like a breakup, an empty bank account, and moving back in with her parents. Then her younger sister got engaged.
Now Ari’s back home in Vermont, watching the entire town lose their minds over the “wedding of the century” while her mother keeps trying to set her up with every single man within a fifty-mile radius. That’s rock bottom.
The only bright spot? Wade Stevenson.
Unfortunately, Wade is also the problem.
The charming high school principal has a reputation for flirting first and thinking later, and half the town is still waiting for him to screw up so bad he loses his job. So when a student’s inappropriate crush threatens to turn into dangerous rumors, Wade needs a respectable girlfriend fast. Ari needs her mother off her back. Fake dating seems like the perfect solution.
Until the lines between fake and real start to blur.
Because suddenly they’re sharing cider donuts at the fall festival, sitting by each other at the football games, and spending more time together than either of them planned. The closer they get, the harder it becomes to remember where the act ends.
And Ari’s not sure which is scarier: Wade breaking her heart or realizing he actually could.
Ari Langford thought rock bottom looked like a breakup, an empty bank account, and moving back in with her parents. Then her younger sister got engaged.
Now Ari’s back home in Vermont, watching the entire town lose their minds over the “wedding of the century” while her mother keeps trying to set her up with every single man within a fifty-mile radius. That’s rock bottom.
The only bright spot? Wade Stevenson.
Unfortunately, Wade is also the problem.
The charming high school principal has a reputation for flirting first and thinking later, and half the town is still waiting for him to screw up so bad he loses his job. So when a student’s inappropriate crush threatens to turn into dangerous rumors, Wade needs a respectable girlfriend fast. Ari needs her mother off her back. Fake dating seems like the perfect solution.
Until the lines between fake and real start to blur.
Because suddenly they’re sharing cider donuts at the fall festival, sitting by each other at the football games, and spending more time together than either of them planned. The closer they get, the harder it becomes to remember where the act ends.
And Ari’s not sure which is scarier: Wade breaking her heart or realizing he actually could.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2026
About the author
Kortney Keisel
22 books1,881 followersKortney graduated from the University of Utah with an English degree and spent a few years before motherhood teaching 7th and 8th graders how to write a book report, among other things. But after a reading slump, where no plots seemed to satisfy, Kortney pulled out her laptop and started writing the "perfect" love story...or at least she tried. Writing love stories is her job...just kidding. Her real job is taking care of her five awesome kids and spending time with her husband.
Kortney loves a good romance movie or book, warm chocolate chip cookies, and traveling the world.
Connect with Kortney at www.kortneykeisel.com
Kortney loves a good romance movie or book, warm chocolate chip cookies, and traveling the world.
Connect with Kortney at www.kortneykeisel.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 5, 2026
FALL FAKE-OUT by Kortney Keisel ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 Fake dating… but make it a bet. Who can make it more convincing! Truly, I was craving easy, fall fun, and this nailed it. I was so excited to curl up in my bed at night to get lost in this one. I laughed out loud so many times *ahem, the beets.” And Wade was perfect. I loved that he had no shame in showing Ari he wanted to be around her. Enjoyed every second.
Ari has moved back to her hometown and is living with her parents. When her Mom insists on setting her up with every single man in Autumn Ridge, Ari agrees to a mutually beneficial fake dating relationship with an old friend, Wade.
Perfect if you like:
•Fake dating!
•Small town.
•It was always you.
•Friends to lovers.
•Laugh out loud moments.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️ (just kisses)
Mood: 🍩🌮
Ari has moved back to her hometown and is living with her parents. When her Mom insists on setting her up with every single man in Autumn Ridge, Ari agrees to a mutually beneficial fake dating relationship with an old friend, Wade.
Perfect if you like:
•Fake dating!
•Small town.
•It was always you.
•Friends to lovers.
•Laugh out loud moments.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️ (just kisses)
Mood: 🍩🌮
September 17, 2026
Before I start, just know two things:
Yes, I know how romcoms work: ooey-gooey, kissy-kissy, is that wedding bells I hear.
No, I did not hate this book, so only proceed if you want hear my opinions.
Okay, now a review. Here's the thing: of course I come to romcoms for the expected components (pretty people, lovey dovey stuff, HEA); but, and more importantly for me personally, down-to-earth elements, a story somewhat based in reality (I'm not trying to ask for the moon, I swear), and some occasional hard hitting stuff (like, rewriting family legacies, overcoming grief, etc.). So, when a romcom has the expected things (obeys the genre rules) but falls flat in the second set of categories, that's when my enjoyment diminishes, and my rating comes down.
This book had some potential (reformed playboy falls for "the one that got away") but here's the biggest problem I perceived in this book as I was reading it: TELLING NOT SHOWING. We are told, over and over again ad nauseam, that Wade is a commitment-phobe man child who is also somehow charming (I can and will give props to the banter in this book, it did make me chuckle many times) and does a good job in his role as principal of his small-town high school–well, we get evidence of the latter (and honestly, some of it's pretty precious), but not the former except being told, over and over again ad nauseam (see what I did there?), that he's dated everyone in Autumn Ridge except Ari and that's because she's *SPECIAL* (also never entirely explained, kind of like The Chosen One, where's Hermione with an oversized book beating when you need it). For me, I want evidence on-page. Show me WHY he's anti-relationship. Show me WHY she's so special (other than being pretty and apparently good at teaching, but let's be real: that second reason is not why Wade is into her).
Anyway. You've probably seen some of my romcom reviews which are me, like many girls, shrieking, "VIBES, LOVE, SWOON," and others where I breakdown the why and how of my love. But then there's these, the ones that make me sound like a pretentious English Lit major, and I am sorry because I'm really not that person anymore. Okay, I do have the degree, but I'm not snooty. I like all kinds of books, including the clean romance genre. It is nice to kick back and read an uncomplicated tale of "our eyes locked and I let out a breath I didn't know I'd been holding because there he was." But sometimes, the story just doesn't hit the spot and this is one of those times.
Yes, I know how romcoms work: ooey-gooey, kissy-kissy, is that wedding bells I hear.
No, I did not hate this book, so only proceed if you want hear my opinions.
Okay, now a review. Here's the thing: of course I come to romcoms for the expected components (pretty people, lovey dovey stuff, HEA); but, and more importantly for me personally, down-to-earth elements, a story somewhat based in reality (I'm not trying to ask for the moon, I swear), and some occasional hard hitting stuff (like, rewriting family legacies, overcoming grief, etc.). So, when a romcom has the expected things (obeys the genre rules) but falls flat in the second set of categories, that's when my enjoyment diminishes, and my rating comes down.
This book had some potential (reformed playboy falls for "the one that got away") but here's the biggest problem I perceived in this book as I was reading it: TELLING NOT SHOWING. We are told, over and over again ad nauseam, that Wade is a commitment-phobe man child who is also somehow charming (I can and will give props to the banter in this book, it did make me chuckle many times) and does a good job in his role as principal of his small-town high school–well, we get evidence of the latter (and honestly, some of it's pretty precious), but not the former except being told, over and over again ad nauseam (see what I did there?), that he's dated everyone in Autumn Ridge except Ari and that's because she's *SPECIAL* (also never entirely explained, kind of like The Chosen One, where's Hermione with an oversized book beating when you need it). For me, I want evidence on-page. Show me WHY he's anti-relationship. Show me WHY she's so special (other than being pretty and apparently good at teaching, but let's be real: that second reason is not why Wade is into her).
Anyway. You've probably seen some of my romcom reviews which are me, like many girls, shrieking, "VIBES, LOVE, SWOON," and others where I breakdown the why and how of my love. But then there's these, the ones that make me sound like a pretentious English Lit major, and I am sorry because I'm really not that person anymore. Okay, I do have the degree, but I'm not snooty. I like all kinds of books, including the clean romance genre. It is nice to kick back and read an uncomplicated tale of "our eyes locked and I let out a breath I didn't know I'd been holding because there he was." But sometimes, the story just doesn't hit the spot and this is one of those times.
September 17, 2026
I DEVOURED IT
(Reviewed on husband’s account)
Y’all, this read lived up to every single expectation I had of it. These two love birds were just so stinkin’ FUN to read.
Wade, with his charm, confidence, and mustache, was just lovable. Ari had a history of being rebellious, but she ultimately wanted to be chosen and loved for who she was. WADE WAS SO INTO HER. I lurvvvvvvvv it when an MMC is acting in a way contrary to his beliefs about himself and his relationship history. The man was so smitten that he was changing his schedule to fit hers and just wanting to be around her all the time. I WAS HERE FOR IT.
Ari seeing the true Wade, his care, and his love for people was just the best. They found support and solace in one another when they couldn’t find it with anyone else. The fact that these two were friends made this even more enjoyable, because they had the foundation of teasing and banter which was TOP TIER.
The mustache brushing, the “almost” moments, the chemistry, the realization of feelings, the record of evidence, the collective barn raising scene…absolutely amazing, 10/10. Also, the fact that they had so much laughter and lightness and genuine FUN together was wonderfully done.
I loved the read & highly recommend it!!!!!
(Reviewed on husband’s account)
Y’all, this read lived up to every single expectation I had of it. These two love birds were just so stinkin’ FUN to read.
Wade, with his charm, confidence, and mustache, was just lovable. Ari had a history of being rebellious, but she ultimately wanted to be chosen and loved for who she was. WADE WAS SO INTO HER. I lurvvvvvvvv it when an MMC is acting in a way contrary to his beliefs about himself and his relationship history. The man was so smitten that he was changing his schedule to fit hers and just wanting to be around her all the time. I WAS HERE FOR IT.
Ari seeing the true Wade, his care, and his love for people was just the best. They found support and solace in one another when they couldn’t find it with anyone else. The fact that these two were friends made this even more enjoyable, because they had the foundation of teasing and banter which was TOP TIER.
The mustache brushing, the “almost” moments, the chemistry, the realization of feelings, the record of evidence, the collective barn raising scene…absolutely amazing, 10/10. Also, the fact that they had so much laughter and lightness and genuine FUN together was wonderfully done.
I loved the read & highly recommend it!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this one!
Ari and Wade end up fake dating in an effort to help both of them out.
Within the first two chapters, I had already gasped and laughed out loud, so I knew it wouldn’t disappoint—and it did not!
There were so many things to love:
🤣 Ari’s interview at the school
😏 the back-and-forth that Wade and Ari had
🐝 the bee incident
😍 how Ari saw Wade and the excellent job he was doing at work and how she drowned out the naysayers
🦝the interrupting raccoons
👩❤️💋👨 homecoming kisses
❤️ Wade’s declaration of love
This series has had hit after hit!!! You definitely should check this one out on 9/16!
Thank you, Kortney, for the advanced listening copy!
Ari and Wade end up fake dating in an effort to help both of them out.
Within the first two chapters, I had already gasped and laughed out loud, so I knew it wouldn’t disappoint—and it did not!
There were so many things to love:
🤣 Ari’s interview at the school
😏 the back-and-forth that Wade and Ari had
🐝 the bee incident
😍 how Ari saw Wade and the excellent job he was doing at work and how she drowned out the naysayers
🦝the interrupting raccoons
👩❤️💋👨 homecoming kisses
❤️ Wade’s declaration of love
This series has had hit after hit!!! You definitely should check this one out on 9/16!
Thank you, Kortney, for the advanced listening copy!
September 17, 2026
I haven’t laughed out loud at a book this much in a long time! It maybe wasn’t a *full* five stars- a couple plot things wrapped up too easily. But it was still SO good!
September 10, 2026
“Don’t let your fear of something bad happening stop you from experiencing something amazing. And I think you and Wade have something amazing going.”
Oh, my! The Falling for Autumn series is stealing my heart and this book is the perfect addition! Fall Fake-Out is the friends to more, fake dating story we all need! Ari isn’t exactly thrilled to be back in Autumn Ridge but she makes the best of it by getting a job as a high school English teacher. When the principal, her old friend Wade, is in need of a fake girlfriend, Ari begrudgingly takes the job. Add in a little bet, some incessant flirting, some obnoxious PDA, and a fall festival and the dating will be fake for long!
I was hooked on this story and cracking up from the get-go! Kortney Keisel kills me with her wit, snark, and banter! I thought Ari and Wade had such a fun dynamic as they had known each other since childhood and Wade had quite the reputation of being a serial dater and shameless flirt! It was fun to see Ari try and resist him and his charms and their little bet definitely added more fun and humor to the fake dating storyline!
Definitely add this book to your fall reading line-up!!
Favorite quotes;
“Ari’s the type of woman you have to be cautious around. You flirt too hard, and you’ll end up fallin’...for good.”
“In high school, no one was more fun to flirt with than Ari Langford. A man could spend his whole life in search of the kind of hard-earned but well-worth-it “chase” she provides. She’s the whole package: funny, outgoing, full of energy, and sweet. And that’s me being a gentleman and leading with the personality stuff. There’s a whole list of her physical traits I’m attracted to. But I’ll keep that list to myself.”
“I’m afraid Mr. Rogers did not teach me how to deal with the people in my neighborhood.”
“That mustache of yours can’t handle prison.” This “makes me laugh. “I disagree. I feel like my mustache makes me look more like a man. You don’t mess with a guy with a ‘stache.”
Oh, my! The Falling for Autumn series is stealing my heart and this book is the perfect addition! Fall Fake-Out is the friends to more, fake dating story we all need! Ari isn’t exactly thrilled to be back in Autumn Ridge but she makes the best of it by getting a job as a high school English teacher. When the principal, her old friend Wade, is in need of a fake girlfriend, Ari begrudgingly takes the job. Add in a little bet, some incessant flirting, some obnoxious PDA, and a fall festival and the dating will be fake for long!
I was hooked on this story and cracking up from the get-go! Kortney Keisel kills me with her wit, snark, and banter! I thought Ari and Wade had such a fun dynamic as they had known each other since childhood and Wade had quite the reputation of being a serial dater and shameless flirt! It was fun to see Ari try and resist him and his charms and their little bet definitely added more fun and humor to the fake dating storyline!
Definitely add this book to your fall reading line-up!!
Favorite quotes;
“Ari’s the type of woman you have to be cautious around. You flirt too hard, and you’ll end up fallin’...for good.”
“In high school, no one was more fun to flirt with than Ari Langford. A man could spend his whole life in search of the kind of hard-earned but well-worth-it “chase” she provides. She’s the whole package: funny, outgoing, full of energy, and sweet. And that’s me being a gentleman and leading with the personality stuff. There’s a whole list of her physical traits I’m attracted to. But I’ll keep that list to myself.”
“I’m afraid Mr. Rogers did not teach me how to deal with the people in my neighborhood.”
“That mustache of yours can’t handle prison.” This “makes me laugh. “I disagree. I feel like my mustache makes me look more like a man. You don’t mess with a guy with a ‘stache.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wade and Ari had such an interesting dynamic of being friends and coworkers who flirted but were never more. Until a situation with a student and a matchmaking mother gives them the idea to fake date. Faking only lasts for so long when real emotions simmer beneath the surface, which made their chemistry fantastic! Loved this book!
This book made me laugh out loud from the start. Kortney is the queen of awkward first run ins for her books and this one was absolutely hilarious, while showing off the both Wade’s and Ari’s personalities perfectly.
Favorite parts
-Ari’s interview to be a teacher at the high school
-All of Wade’s thoughts about who Ari was to him and their potential as a couple.
-Ari’s mom setting the awkward blind date.
-Ari announcing she was dating Wade
-the Mayors birthday party. Hahahaha. A mustache comb was involved.
-the fall festival and all the forced proximity there. The face painting and the movie.
Favorite Quotes:
But somehow, teenage me was smart enough to know Ari’s the type of woman you have to be cautious around. You flirt too hard, and you’ll end up fallin’...for good.
He studies the mirror again. “I knew you secretly liked the ‘stache.”
No, actually, I secretly like the way Wade is looking back at me.
Everywhere I go, she’s there, and the best part of the week isn’t every festival activity. It’s Ari.
“You need to convince my mom you’re an acceptable boyfriend—”
“I am an acceptable boyfriend.”
“You’re a human red flag in P.E clothes.”
“That feels exaggerated.”
Somewhere between moving home, fake dating, football games, hayrides, bonfires, and stolen kisses, he became my favorite part of Autumn Ridge.
This book made me laugh out loud from the start. Kortney is the queen of awkward first run ins for her books and this one was absolutely hilarious, while showing off the both Wade’s and Ari’s personalities perfectly.
Favorite parts
-Ari’s interview to be a teacher at the high school
-All of Wade’s thoughts about who Ari was to him and their potential as a couple.
-Ari’s mom setting the awkward blind date.
-Ari announcing she was dating Wade
-the Mayors birthday party. Hahahaha. A mustache comb was involved.
-the fall festival and all the forced proximity there. The face painting and the movie.
Favorite Quotes:
But somehow, teenage me was smart enough to know Ari’s the type of woman you have to be cautious around. You flirt too hard, and you’ll end up fallin’...for good.
He studies the mirror again. “I knew you secretly liked the ‘stache.”
No, actually, I secretly like the way Wade is looking back at me.
Everywhere I go, she’s there, and the best part of the week isn’t every festival activity. It’s Ari.
“You need to convince my mom you’re an acceptable boyfriend—”
“I am an acceptable boyfriend.”
“You’re a human red flag in P.E clothes.”
“That feels exaggerated.”
Somewhere between moving home, fake dating, football games, hayrides, bonfires, and stolen kisses, he became my favorite part of Autumn Ridge.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love the way this book starts out. The meet ugly between Ari and Wade made me laugh so hard. And the book just gets better from there. I LOVED everything about it!
Ari has had to move home to live with her parents, even though she didn't want to. Life hasn't worked out the way she thought it would. And moving back to Autumn Ridge was not on her bingo card for any time. But she's got a job at the local high school as an English teacher. And a fake boyfriend in Wade, hopefully that will help get her mother off her back about dating.
Wade is a great guy. I loved the way he cared about the kids at school. He knows what is going on in their lives, and works hard to help them through hard things. But Autumn Ridge thinks he's too young and inexperienced to be principal. And that's part of why he needs a fake relationship.
I loved the way these two work hard to overcome the perception of the town of them. They're a clear case of people who have grown up and changed, but the people around them can't see that or allow it. Especially when those people see embarrassing things happen that seem consistent with their previous selves.
This book is such a great one! Don't miss it!
Ari has had to move home to live with her parents, even though she didn't want to. Life hasn't worked out the way she thought it would. And moving back to Autumn Ridge was not on her bingo card for any time. But she's got a job at the local high school as an English teacher. And a fake boyfriend in Wade, hopefully that will help get her mother off her back about dating.
Wade is a great guy. I loved the way he cared about the kids at school. He knows what is going on in their lives, and works hard to help them through hard things. But Autumn Ridge thinks he's too young and inexperienced to be principal. And that's part of why he needs a fake relationship.
I loved the way these two work hard to overcome the perception of the town of them. They're a clear case of people who have grown up and changed, but the people around them can't see that or allow it. Especially when those people see embarrassing things happen that seem consistent with their previous selves.
This book is such a great one! Don't miss it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Back to Autumn Ridge I go, and this 6th book in the multi-author series keeps things going strong. I always relate to Kortney's humor, sarcasm and characters, and this one is no different. Literal laugh out loud moments- which isn't good when you're reading (way too) late at night. Beets, bee's, and busy body Edna's were just what I needed. (no spoilers- you'll have to read it yourself!)
Ari has been away from the small town she grew up in for 9 years. Fresh off of a failed engagement and being taken advantage of financially, she is forced to move home. She applies to teach at the local high school only to find that the new principal is a former friend and trouble causer in the town. He also has a reputation as a player, she being one of the few girls he never dated. Her younger sister, who is perfect and beloved by all, was recently engaged. The pressure is on and her mom is on the prowl to find her a match as well.
"I'm afraid Mr. Rogers did not teach me how to deal with the people in my neighborhood."
Wade loves his job, the students, and is very supportive of the teachers. His reputation has been hard to overcome however, and there are those who do not approve of him being hired as the principal. His dad, the former principal, is one of them. He never seems to measure up. He also teaches P.E., is young and very handsome. There is a student who is aggressively pursuing him and no matter what he does- she will not relent.
"Aren't you driving me to the game tonight?" I'm driving the cheer team in the school van so we don't have to pay for a bus. "I call the seat next to you." Her smile drips with flirtation that only an adult woman should know.
And... a fake relationship is born. Not only that, but they make a bet about who can be more convincing. Fake dating is a trope that I always enjoy; even though you know the eventual outcome- the getting there is so much fun. And this is that and more. There is a lot of heart, seeing the person behind all of the charm, and some confidence and strength gained. And humor. SO MUCH humor.
I received a copy of the book from the author. No positive review was expected.
Ari has been away from the small town she grew up in for 9 years. Fresh off of a failed engagement and being taken advantage of financially, she is forced to move home. She applies to teach at the local high school only to find that the new principal is a former friend and trouble causer in the town. He also has a reputation as a player, she being one of the few girls he never dated. Her younger sister, who is perfect and beloved by all, was recently engaged. The pressure is on and her mom is on the prowl to find her a match as well.
"I'm afraid Mr. Rogers did not teach me how to deal with the people in my neighborhood."
Wade loves his job, the students, and is very supportive of the teachers. His reputation has been hard to overcome however, and there are those who do not approve of him being hired as the principal. His dad, the former principal, is one of them. He never seems to measure up. He also teaches P.E., is young and very handsome. There is a student who is aggressively pursuing him and no matter what he does- she will not relent.
"Aren't you driving me to the game tonight?" I'm driving the cheer team in the school van so we don't have to pay for a bus. "I call the seat next to you." Her smile drips with flirtation that only an adult woman should know.
And... a fake relationship is born. Not only that, but they make a bet about who can be more convincing. Fake dating is a trope that I always enjoy; even though you know the eventual outcome- the getting there is so much fun. And this is that and more. There is a lot of heart, seeing the person behind all of the charm, and some confidence and strength gained. And humor. SO MUCH humor.
I received a copy of the book from the author. No positive review was expected.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the digital ARC of Fall Fake-Out by Kortney Keisel. All opinions are my own.
While Fall Fake-Out is book six in the Falling form Autumn series, it can be read as a standalone and in any order with the other books in this series since the events in the books take place at the same time. I read the first book in this series, The Bodyguard’s Fall, before reading this and there were definitely characters and events that overlapped, but it still would’ve been fine had I not read that book first.
I absolutely loved this book! I finished it in a couple days because I didn’t want to put it down. Honestly, I was very invested in this story, and the interactions with other characters made me want to read all the books in this series.
Wade and Ari had such a fun relationship, and I liked how the town got so invested in their romance. I could tell from the very beginning that Wade was very interested in Ari and had been since high school. It was fun to read from both of their points of views because neither wanted to admit their feelings.
Wade was a very charming and flirty character, but I also loved how much he cared about people. He was a great principal, and I loved how he noticed students that other people overlooked. He was also just a lot of fun and made every situation better.
Ari was such a fun female lead. I liked how bold and confident she was. She was also a great English teacher that wanted to make her classes fun. It was great to see how Wade brought out her competitive spirit too.
I felt bad for both Wade and Ari dealing with parents that just didn’t seem to understand them well. Wade’s dad should’ve been more supportive of Wade being principal, and Ari’s mom should’ve actually listed to Ari instead of not trusting her and being pushy.
Overall, this book was so fun and entertaining. It made me laugh out loud, and I loved how romantic it was. I would definitely recommend it!
While Fall Fake-Out is book six in the Falling form Autumn series, it can be read as a standalone and in any order with the other books in this series since the events in the books take place at the same time. I read the first book in this series, The Bodyguard’s Fall, before reading this and there were definitely characters and events that overlapped, but it still would’ve been fine had I not read that book first.
I absolutely loved this book! I finished it in a couple days because I didn’t want to put it down. Honestly, I was very invested in this story, and the interactions with other characters made me want to read all the books in this series.
Wade and Ari had such a fun relationship, and I liked how the town got so invested in their romance. I could tell from the very beginning that Wade was very interested in Ari and had been since high school. It was fun to read from both of their points of views because neither wanted to admit their feelings.
Wade was a very charming and flirty character, but I also loved how much he cared about people. He was a great principal, and I loved how he noticed students that other people overlooked. He was also just a lot of fun and made every situation better.
Ari was such a fun female lead. I liked how bold and confident she was. She was also a great English teacher that wanted to make her classes fun. It was great to see how Wade brought out her competitive spirit too.
I felt bad for both Wade and Ari dealing with parents that just didn’t seem to understand them well. Wade’s dad should’ve been more supportive of Wade being principal, and Ari’s mom should’ve actually listed to Ari instead of not trusting her and being pushy.
Overall, this book was so fun and entertaining. It made me laugh out loud, and I loved how romantic it was. I would definitely recommend it!
September 16, 2026
Ari and Wade’s story is FANTASTIC! This book is proof that friends to lovers can have just as much witty banter and swoony tension as enemies to lovers.
Ari has been through the wringer and coming back home is the last thing she wanted. But it is definitely what she needed! Somewhere between lesson plans, maid of honor duties, and family (whole community) expectations, she figures out the path she wants to take in life and it was amazing to watch her get there.
Wade…our dear, mustachioed hero. It’s hard to get anyone else to take you seriously when you don’t really take yourself seriously. I’m just glad he figures this out and puts forth the effort to show everyone who he really is. He is so dedicated to his work and his community, but it takes more than a little work to get everyone to see that. Loved his journey!
I loved seeing Ari and Wade work together, while also trying to one up each other. It provided some top notch entertainment and delightful banter. These two have known each other their entire lives and yet they still don’t fully know or understand each other. I loved watching each of them find out who the other was and then help spread that image to the community, all while falling deeper in love, despite their “I swear it’s all fake!” protests.
This fake dating, small town romance is the 6th book in the Falling For Autumn multi-author series set in Autumn Ridge, Vermont. The whole series makes me want to curl up with a hot apple cider and daydream of New England.
Ari has been through the wringer and coming back home is the last thing she wanted. But it is definitely what she needed! Somewhere between lesson plans, maid of honor duties, and family (whole community) expectations, she figures out the path she wants to take in life and it was amazing to watch her get there.
Wade…our dear, mustachioed hero. It’s hard to get anyone else to take you seriously when you don’t really take yourself seriously. I’m just glad he figures this out and puts forth the effort to show everyone who he really is. He is so dedicated to his work and his community, but it takes more than a little work to get everyone to see that. Loved his journey!
I loved seeing Ari and Wade work together, while also trying to one up each other. It provided some top notch entertainment and delightful banter. These two have known each other their entire lives and yet they still don’t fully know or understand each other. I loved watching each of them find out who the other was and then help spread that image to the community, all while falling deeper in love, despite their “I swear it’s all fake!” protests.
This fake dating, small town romance is the 6th book in the Falling For Autumn multi-author series set in Autumn Ridge, Vermont. The whole series makes me want to curl up with a hot apple cider and daydream of New England.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Two things I always enjoy: a good fake dating romcom and anything Kortney Keisel writes, so I knew this one was going to be fun... and it certainly did not disappoint. First of all, Wade is just such a fun character to read about. He's a shameless flirt and serial dater, and initially it seems like he doesn't take anything too seriously, but as we get to know him a little more, we see that there really is a lot more to him and I enjoyed seeing that softer/more serious side too. And the banter between him and Ari? It was so good! I loved their competitiveness and bets, adding another really fun layer to their fake dating. Their story had me laughing out loud so many times throughout... starting with their rather memorable re-introduction. With lots of small-town charm and meddling, there was so much to love about this one. If you love a romance with fake dating, banter and all the fall vibes, this is one you'll certainly want to check out!
Fall Fake Out is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Falling for Autumn series- a multi-author series of interconnected stories that can be enjoyed as standalones as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Fall Fake Out is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Falling for Autumn series- a multi-author series of interconnected stories that can be enjoyed as standalones as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2026
4.5 rounded up
🍁FALL FAKE OUT🍁
Thank you so much Kortney for the ARC!
I completely ate this book up! Wade is the flirtiest flirt of a leading man and I just adored him. He was so much fun but he was also just so sweet and caring. One of my favorite things to watch is a confident flirty casual dating MMC slowly fall head over heels for a girl and this delivered. It reminded me so much of Ben in Kortney’s book Complete (one of my all time favorites) and I loved it so much. And Ari was just the best. She was fun and competitive and sassy and I loved her. Both Ari and Wade love to have fun and I enjoyed how their similar personalities complemented each other so well. They also both experience some complicated family dynamics and feeling like the black sheep/family disappointment. I really enjoyed watching them shed these fears and also stand up for one another. The town of Autumn Ridge is just so quaint and it made me wish I was there and not in 100 degree heat index Alabama 🤪. Overall this story was so fun and I loved every minute of it.
👍🏻Read If You Like:
* fake dating
* small town romances
* educator MCs
* flirty MMCs
🛑Content Warnings:
* broken engagement
* complicated family dynamics
🚪closed door romance
🍁FALL FAKE OUT🍁
Thank you so much Kortney for the ARC!
I completely ate this book up! Wade is the flirtiest flirt of a leading man and I just adored him. He was so much fun but he was also just so sweet and caring. One of my favorite things to watch is a confident flirty casual dating MMC slowly fall head over heels for a girl and this delivered. It reminded me so much of Ben in Kortney’s book Complete (one of my all time favorites) and I loved it so much. And Ari was just the best. She was fun and competitive and sassy and I loved her. Both Ari and Wade love to have fun and I enjoyed how their similar personalities complemented each other so well. They also both experience some complicated family dynamics and feeling like the black sheep/family disappointment. I really enjoyed watching them shed these fears and also stand up for one another. The town of Autumn Ridge is just so quaint and it made me wish I was there and not in 100 degree heat index Alabama 🤪. Overall this story was so fun and I loved every minute of it.
👍🏻Read If You Like:
* fake dating
* small town romances
* educator MCs
* flirty MMCs
🛑Content Warnings:
* broken engagement
* complicated family dynamics
🚪closed door romance
September 17, 2026
I've said it before and I'll say it again, Kortney Keisel is the queen of romcoms. I read this book so fast, it's so fun and sweet and witty and full of chemistry, just the epitome of the romcom genre.
Ari and Wade are old friends who each had a thing for each other, but never got together. They each have a not so great reputation or track record with romance. So, of course they begin fake dating, but then it becomes a competition, which is such a fun twist. The way Ari and Wade defend and show up for one another is so sweet, and their whole relationship (from fake to real) was just full of delicious banter and tension (the raccoons scene? I mean, come on). I was just giddy-giggling through the entire book, I never wanted to put it down, but I also never wanted it to end.
I also loved Autumn Ridge, the fall vibes, and all the side characters, so I am stoked to read the rest of this series. I absolutely love a well-connected multi-author series (and these authors are just the best at it!). I can't wait to see how Ari and Wade show up in the other books.
Thank you so much, Kortney, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. It's no surprise I loved this book. I don't know how you do it, just pure romcom magic. All opinions are my own.
Ari and Wade are old friends who each had a thing for each other, but never got together. They each have a not so great reputation or track record with romance. So, of course they begin fake dating, but then it becomes a competition, which is such a fun twist. The way Ari and Wade defend and show up for one another is so sweet, and their whole relationship (from fake to real) was just full of delicious banter and tension (the raccoons scene? I mean, come on). I was just giddy-giggling through the entire book, I never wanted to put it down, but I also never wanted it to end.
I also loved Autumn Ridge, the fall vibes, and all the side characters, so I am stoked to read the rest of this series. I absolutely love a well-connected multi-author series (and these authors are just the best at it!). I can't wait to see how Ari and Wade show up in the other books.
Thank you so much, Kortney, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. It's no surprise I loved this book. I don't know how you do it, just pure romcom magic. All opinions are my own.
September 17, 2026
“I am an acceptable boyfriend.”
“You’re a human red flag in P.E. clothes.”
“That feels exaggerated.”
Fall Fake-Out is one of the most bingeable romcoms, full of all the laughs, swoon, and heart. I excessively highlighted so many funny moments and quotes, snorted my way through page after page, and constantly calmed the butterflies in my swooned and pounding heart. I couldn’t get enough of Ari’s and Wade’s charming story and all the moustache antics.
Having grown up in a small town even smaller than Autumn Ridge, I know all about how true interest can be mistaken for rumors and judging. I loved diving more into the town and its residents, and especially loved the twists that come from growing up.
Wade is full of flirtatious swagger but could come undone with a strawberry. Ari always goes against expectations but could fall for stolen glance. The crackling banter served these two well. This story is fake dating and bets at their finest and the whole plot from start to finish is sheer delight.
Keisel has done it again with a brilliant story of proving oneself, enjoying the journey, and all the glorious autumn-time fun.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
“You’re a human red flag in P.E. clothes.”
“That feels exaggerated.”
Fall Fake-Out is one of the most bingeable romcoms, full of all the laughs, swoon, and heart. I excessively highlighted so many funny moments and quotes, snorted my way through page after page, and constantly calmed the butterflies in my swooned and pounding heart. I couldn’t get enough of Ari’s and Wade’s charming story and all the moustache antics.
Having grown up in a small town even smaller than Autumn Ridge, I know all about how true interest can be mistaken for rumors and judging. I loved diving more into the town and its residents, and especially loved the twists that come from growing up.
Wade is full of flirtatious swagger but could come undone with a strawberry. Ari always goes against expectations but could fall for stolen glance. The crackling banter served these two well. This story is fake dating and bets at their finest and the whole plot from start to finish is sheer delight.
Keisel has done it again with a brilliant story of proving oneself, enjoying the journey, and all the glorious autumn-time fun.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
September 8, 2026
What should I start with??? The beets—which I figured out immediately? Or the banter? Or maybe the fact that the slow burn is so slow that I wanted to reach into the book and smash Wade and Ari’s lips together a few times? 🤣🤣
For real though, the burn is super slow, but the tension and chemistry is delicious! Not to mention that the banter was bantering superbly! Seriously, so far in this series I would list Ari and Wade as my favorites in the banter category.
I loved that there was a smidgen of a second chance to their story, with that underlying I’ve-always-wanted-you thread running through their relationship.
There was a lot that both characters had to unpack, a history with their families that they had to deal with, and of course some outside influences like crazy high school girls 🤪🤭 but they overcame it all, and got they HEA in the end!
If you’re looking for a swoony romance with all the chemistry but no spice, along with autumn vibes, forced proximity, along with a side of fake dating, look no further!
Thank you Kortney for my ARC copy! Looking forward to putting this one on my shelf!
For real though, the burn is super slow, but the tension and chemistry is delicious! Not to mention that the banter was bantering superbly! Seriously, so far in this series I would list Ari and Wade as my favorites in the banter category.
I loved that there was a smidgen of a second chance to their story, with that underlying I’ve-always-wanted-you thread running through their relationship.
There was a lot that both characters had to unpack, a history with their families that they had to deal with, and of course some outside influences like crazy high school girls 🤪🤭 but they overcame it all, and got they HEA in the end!
If you’re looking for a swoony romance with all the chemistry but no spice, along with autumn vibes, forced proximity, along with a side of fake dating, look no further!
Thank you Kortney for my ARC copy! Looking forward to putting this one on my shelf!
Review of advance copy received from Author
We met Ari in Liv’s story (The Bodyguard’s Fall) and now it’s her time to shine! As a teacher I loved this glimpse into the future of some of my “troublesome” students. You know-the impulsive, competitive, daring types that really aren’t bad kids but just seem to get themselves into sticky situations. Ari and Wade fit that bill, and it was so fun seeing those traits in more “experienced adult” characters. Fake-Dating often gets a bad wrap, but it was such a fun way to throw these two together! I also loved that both of them have loving families. Not perfect, but present parents and siblings that all love each other. Less and less stories these days seem to portray those dynamics and so it stood out to me. Building on their past friendship, Ari and Wade see the best in each other and love the rougher edges people tend to want to smooth or fix. Relationships can be sweet and joyful and kind, but they can also be oh-so-fun! Just as Wade. ;)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lily’s Content Guide
💋 Romance level: Kisses Only
🗣️ Language: None
📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance
🎀 Lily’s verdict: 💖 A New Favorite
I absolutely DEVOURED this book!! 🤩 I finished it in less than a day because I genuinely could not put it down.
Some of these scenes had me laughing SO hard 😂😂
BEETS?!?!? 😂😂😂 If you know, you know.
The banter and chemistry between the MCs was absolutely top tier😍 I ate up every interaction between these two and the fake dating combined with the it’s always been you?!? PERFECTION🥹
This was everything I want in a fall romance. small town vibes, hilarious moments, swoony chemistry, and a romance I couldn’t get enough of🍂
I think this has officially earned a spot on my favorites list❤️
🍂 Fall Vibes
✨ Workplace Romance
🍂 Fake Dating
✨ Flirty Banter
🍂 Small Town
✨ It’s Always Been You
💋 Romance level: Kisses Only
🗣️ Language: None
📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance
🎀 Lily’s verdict: 💖 A New Favorite
I absolutely DEVOURED this book!! 🤩 I finished it in less than a day because I genuinely could not put it down.
Some of these scenes had me laughing SO hard 😂😂
BEETS?!?!? 😂😂😂 If you know, you know.
The banter and chemistry between the MCs was absolutely top tier😍 I ate up every interaction between these two and the fake dating combined with the it’s always been you?!? PERFECTION🥹
This was everything I want in a fall romance. small town vibes, hilarious moments, swoony chemistry, and a romance I couldn’t get enough of🍂
I think this has officially earned a spot on my favorites list❤️
🍂 Fall Vibes
✨ Workplace Romance
🍂 Fake Dating
✨ Flirty Banter
🍂 Small Town
✨ It’s Always Been You
Review of advance copy received from Author
In true Kortney Kiesel style you will find an awesome and hilarious re-meetcute. This book is like being on a roller coaster riding through an amusement park. So much fun banter, entertaining characters and a large helping of swoon and longing. It’s everything you want in a fake dating book.
You will be laughing out loud at the embarrassing situations like the beet incident and the results of the bee encounter at the football game.
Ari and Wade are two characters you will be cheering for all the way to the end.
Thank you to the author for an advance copy of this book for review. The opinions are all my own.
You will be laughing out loud at the embarrassing situations like the beet incident and the results of the bee encounter at the football game.
Ari and Wade are two characters you will be cheering for all the way to the end.
Thank you to the author for an advance copy of this book for review. The opinions are all my own.
September 7, 2026
I love a fake dating ploy! Hilarious start! 😆 Kortney always pulls me right in and The Fall Fake Out is no different! I love it when I literally laugh aloud while reading a book and that happened to me several times. Without spoiling it- Archer asks them something when he sees them together and I was at work and quite literally squawked 🤪😆 this series has been so fun and you won’t be disappointed when you spend your time with Wade & Ari! 🧡🧡🧡 I especially loved their time together at the football games and when he comes to her house for the bonfire! 🔥
September 16, 2026
Warning: Do not read this in a quiet library or in bed while your partner is trying to sleep. You will laugh out loud while being oblivious of your surroundings. Speaking for a friend ;)
Wade and Ari’s “scandalous” relationship has been hinted in so many of the previous books, and I am so glad to finally know what people in town were talking about.
This was the perfect blend of romance, banter, comedic misunderstandings, small town vibes, and Autumn coziness. I may have to count this as my favorite book in the series so far.
Wade and Ari’s “scandalous” relationship has been hinted in so many of the previous books, and I am so glad to finally know what people in town were talking about.
This was the perfect blend of romance, banter, comedic misunderstandings, small town vibes, and Autumn coziness. I may have to count this as my favorite book in the series so far.
September 17, 2026
Fantastic
I think this series is one of my favorite multi author series I’ve read each story fits so perfectly with the other books, and Wade and Ari were no exception. I enjoyed their friendship to more, it made for such a good story that I couldn’t put it down. The bonus story at the end was the icing on the cake. Very sweet from beginning to end and no angsty breakup, absolutely loved it!
I think this series is one of my favorite multi author series I’ve read each story fits so perfectly with the other books, and Wade and Ari were no exception. I enjoyed their friendship to more, it made for such a good story that I couldn’t put it down. The bonus story at the end was the icing on the cake. Very sweet from beginning to end and no angsty breakup, absolutely loved it!
September 15, 2026
This is one of my favorite books! It had me tearing up several times! Ari and Wade’s story is so tender and sweet! It’s also hilarious at times and makes you laugh out loud. I loved absolutely everything about this book!! This series is SO good!! If you haven’t read them all, do it NOW!! You won’t regret it!
September 6, 2026
This might be my favorite story coming out of Autumn Ridge so far (that I’ve read). I don’t know what Kortney put in this book, but I was CONSUMED by all thoughts Wade and Ari. I simply could NOT put this story down. I love fake dating, and thought these two did it in the most ridiculous and fun way. Their banter was so much fun to witness, as was their chemistry! Perhaps my favorite thing about this story is how they were friends first. They knew each other fairly well, and it was made for a solid foundation for a relationship once they made things real. HIGHLY recommend this one: come for the fake dating shenanigans, stay for the fall vibes and HEA.
September 15, 2026
YES YES YES!!!!! My favorite Kortney Keisel book!! This was swoony, FLIRTY, and just such a fun read! I loved the growth from each of the main characters, and the storyline was engaging. I also love a cocky man with a good stache 😉
Highly recommend!!
Highly recommend!!
September 17, 2026
I’ve been waiting for this one! We’ve seen Ari and Wade in several of the previous books, and their story was certainly a lot of fun. The reason for the fake dating seemed a little forced, but it ended up being a fun time.
September 17, 2026
Loved it!
I had fun reading this fun story! It was unique and entertaining! And I love the small town setting of this series.
I had fun reading this fun story! It was unique and entertaining! And I love the small town setting of this series.
September 17, 2026
Such a fun fake-dating to more rom-com. The banter was the best! I love how Ari and Wade were such good friends and liked to tease each other so much.
September 17, 2026
This might be my favorite one of the set so far. I love that they have the same chaotic vibes. This was cute and funny and I loved every second
September 17, 2026
Cute story. I liked Wade and Ari, especially their banter and open communication. I liked how this book filled in the details of the gossip mentioned in the previous books in this series.
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