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Book Boyfriend #2
Faking It
Confirmed bachelor Max Sterling isn't into rescuing damsels in distress, but when the very tempting Hailey Ellison needs his help, there's only one thing for him to do. Step in and pose as her loving fiancé. Except there is nothing fake about his attraction to her, or how much he wants her beneath him in his bed, moaning his name. But what starts as a sexy, flirty, temporary engagement, quickly becomes something more serious that neither one ever anticipated.
288 pages, ebook
First published April 11, 2017
943 people are currently reading
3033 people want to read
About the author
Carly Phillips
400 books9,778 followersNY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 516 reviews
April 14, 2017
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
There is no faking it about it, Carly Phillips & Erika Wilde co-wrote one sizzling, smoking, and sexy contemporary romance that will leave readers craving and swooning for more of Max Sterling.
The man who’d been the epitome of an honorable gentleman the past three months was no longer courteous and well-mannered, as he effortlessly stripped away her ability to resist him with a bold kiss that made her melt deep inside.”
Faking It was a light, fun, sexy romance that was a mixture of passion, steam, and sweetness. I absolutely adored this story since the authors wrote a story about a big beautiful heroine and her journey of finding confidence and love. It was refreshing to finally read a story where the heroine is not a size zero, two, or four but a real ordinary woman who has curves.
Hailey Ellison is a professional matchmaker. Her matchmaking business is garnering lots of clients and love connections. Everything in her life is great except the fact that her love life is non-existent. Hailey can pair people up but for some reason, she can’t match herself to the right guy. So as professional matchmaker, she knew it would make no sense if she is finding love for others and can’t find love herself and so she decides to make up a fake fiance. So when one of her client’s mother accidentally runs into Hailey and her real estate agent broker, Max Sterling, Hailey’s big lie of being engaged could be ruined especially when she told her client’s mother that her fiance’s name is Max Sterling.
So what does Max do? Well, he goes along with the charade. And why is that? Well, for one, Max finds Hailey very attractive and he can’t stop thinking of her. And secondly, he figures Hailey can also help him from having his mother meddle in his love life. They both agree the fake engagement would be temporary. But what happens when Max tries to get Hailey out of her comfort zone and shows her how beautiful and sexy she is? Will Hailey be finding herself wanting this engagement to be real?
As I said earlier, Faking It was a fun, sexy, cute romance. Readers will adore this love story because Max and Hailey are a couple that you will easily fall in love with. Their connection is real, honest, palpable and sweet. And you gotta love a hero who brings out the confidence in Hailey and shows her that her body is indeed a wonderland. So if you are looking for a romance that blends heat and heart then I highly recommend you to read Faking It.
Carly Phillips Erika Wilde
There is no faking it about it, Carly Phillips & Erika Wilde co-wrote one sizzling, smoking, and sexy contemporary romance that will leave readers craving and swooning for more of Max Sterling.
The man who’d been the epitome of an honorable gentleman the past three months was no longer courteous and well-mannered, as he effortlessly stripped away her ability to resist him with a bold kiss that made her melt deep inside.” Faking It was a light, fun, sexy romance that was a mixture of passion, steam, and sweetness. I absolutely adored this story since the authors wrote a story about a big beautiful heroine and her journey of finding confidence and love. It was refreshing to finally read a story where the heroine is not a size zero, two, or four but a real ordinary woman who has curves.
Hailey Ellison is a professional matchmaker. Her matchmaking business is garnering lots of clients and love connections. Everything in her life is great except the fact that her love life is non-existent. Hailey can pair people up but for some reason, she can’t match herself to the right guy. So as professional matchmaker, she knew it would make no sense if she is finding love for others and can’t find love herself and so she decides to make up a fake fiance. So when one of her client’s mother accidentally runs into Hailey and her real estate agent broker, Max Sterling, Hailey’s big lie of being engaged could be ruined especially when she told her client’s mother that her fiance’s name is Max Sterling.
So what does Max do? Well, he goes along with the charade. And why is that? Well, for one, Max finds Hailey very attractive and he can’t stop thinking of her. And secondly, he figures Hailey can also help him from having his mother meddle in his love life. They both agree the fake engagement would be temporary. But what happens when Max tries to get Hailey out of her comfort zone and shows her how beautiful and sexy she is? Will Hailey be finding herself wanting this engagement to be real?
As I said earlier, Faking It was a fun, sexy, cute romance. Readers will adore this love story because Max and Hailey are a couple that you will easily fall in love with. Their connection is real, honest, palpable and sweet. And you gotta love a hero who brings out the confidence in Hailey and shows her that her body is indeed a wonderland. So if you are looking for a romance that blends heat and heart then I highly recommend you to read Faking It.
Carly Phillips Erika Wilde
April 16, 2017
3 Fake It Till You Make It Stars
Hailey is looking for the perfect office space for her matchmaking company. That's right, this woman who has never known love runs a reputable and popular matchmaking agency. Hailey even goes as far as to wear a fake engagement ring to keep men away.
Max is the realtor who is hired to find Hailey her new office space. Haileyknows thinks he is way out of her league but allows herself to ogle him anyway.
They went out to lunch to celebrate finding Hailey's perfect property. It was all going so well until Hailey's little secret about her 'fake fiance' came out in a very awkward way.
This gave Max the perfect excuse to get closer to Hailey, they agreed to keep up the 'fake fiance' routine going to help get Max's stalker out of the picture.
So Max and Hailey start to get to know each other, Max soon realises that Hailey has a lot of body issues and insecurities about her sexuality after a terrible thing happened to her in college. Max then makes it his mission to show her just how fantastic she really is. I have to give a shout out for the phone sex scene, that was HOT!!!
BUT this book is NOT about the hot scenes as there is only 1 actual sex scene in the whole book, so if you're looking for lots of sex look elsewhere.
This is a story about overcoming insecurities, trust and finding true love. I enjoyed parts of this book but I did feel it was missing something as I found it really hard to get through, I think it was just a little slow for me. So IMO there is nothing wrong with this book it just wasn't really for me.
Hailey is looking for the perfect office space for her matchmaking company. That's right, this woman who has never known love runs a reputable and popular matchmaking agency. Hailey even goes as far as to wear a fake engagement ring to keep men away.
It made her feel more secure and confident, and being in love gave a credence to her expertise as a matchmaker.
Max is the realtor who is hired to find Hailey her new office space. Hailey
They went out to lunch to celebrate finding Hailey's perfect property. It was all going so well until Hailey's little secret about her 'fake fiance' came out in a very awkward way.
This gave Max the perfect excuse to get closer to Hailey, they agreed to keep up the 'fake fiance' routine going to help get Max's stalker out of the picture.
So Max and Hailey start to get to know each other, Max soon realises that Hailey has a lot of body issues and insecurities about her sexuality after a terrible thing happened to her in college. Max then makes it his mission to show her just how fantastic she really is. I have to give a shout out for the phone sex scene, that was HOT!!!
BUT this book is NOT about the hot scenes as there is only 1 actual sex scene in the whole book, so if you're looking for lots of sex look elsewhere.
This is a story about overcoming insecurities, trust and finding true love. I enjoyed parts of this book but I did feel it was missing something as I found it really hard to get through, I think it was just a little slow for me. So IMO there is nothing wrong with this book it just wasn't really for me.
September 26, 2017
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I've almost started this book about eight times and then for whatever reason I never actually did. Which is something I'm kicking myself for now because I really enjoyed these characters. The whole "fake fiance" thing has been done time and time again, yet these authors kept the plot new and fresh. It didn't feel cliche at all and had my attention from the very beginning. Hailey and Max fell into their relationship with little issue and I really liked that they didn't bring a lot of drama to the forefront.
Hailey had a few reasons why she wasn't looking for a real relationship but with Max they fit so well together that even she couldn't deny that they belonged with one another. They had a certain level of trust in each other that was really amazing to see and it made their connection very strong.
This writing duo always delivers a fantastic story and I can't wait to get more of them from the rest of this series.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I've almost started this book about eight times and then for whatever reason I never actually did. Which is something I'm kicking myself for now because I really enjoyed these characters. The whole "fake fiance" thing has been done time and time again, yet these authors kept the plot new and fresh. It didn't feel cliche at all and had my attention from the very beginning. Hailey and Max fell into their relationship with little issue and I really liked that they didn't bring a lot of drama to the forefront.
Hailey had a few reasons why she wasn't looking for a real relationship but with Max they fit so well together that even she couldn't deny that they belonged with one another. They had a certain level of trust in each other that was really amazing to see and it made their connection very strong.
This writing duo always delivers a fantastic story and I can't wait to get more of them from the rest of this series.
April 2, 2017
Get ready to FALL HARD ladies because Max Sterling is EVERYTHING!
Whether writing together or separate, these two authors never fail to bring the HEAT and the EMOTION to every book they release! I was completely DAZZLED and CONSUMED by Max and Hailey. From Max's easy and charming banter to Hailey's coy, yet driven nature, these two were in for one hell of a ride. They never stood a chance.
"Come on, sweet girl," he cajoled, her lips less than an inch away from his. "You know you want me to kiss you again. All you have to do is say yes..."
The engagement ring on her finger might stop Max from pursuing Hailey, but it will not temper the dirty thoughts he has running through his mind at the very sight of her. But when he finds out her secret, ALL BETS ARE OFF. There is some claiming to do, and he is just the man for the job. Deciding on a proposition that will be in both of their favor, this fake engagement can only go on for so long. It's an excuse to get close to her, so he will take it. Marriage, kids, and a white picket fence, aren't things that Max Sterling ever had in mind as a possibility, but spending time with Hailey Ellison as her "fiancé" gave him a glimpse of something that could be really special, if he would just let it. He would also need to convince Hailey of that fact and her insecurities will end up being their worst enemy. Max Sterling is a determined man and he will stop at nothing to chase away her doubts - one kiss and one touch at a time.
"Don't worry, sweet girl, I know exactly what to do to make your body purr."
Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde are a match made in heaven when it comes to writing contemporary romance. FAKING IT is just another example of that. Believe me when I say, you will fall HARD for Max and Hailey. You will adore them, root for them, and fall hard for them. Phillips and Wilde gives us another romance that will make you feel great, inside and out.
Whether writing together or separate, these two authors never fail to bring the HEAT and the EMOTION to every book they release! I was completely DAZZLED and CONSUMED by Max and Hailey. From Max's easy and charming banter to Hailey's coy, yet driven nature, these two were in for one hell of a ride. They never stood a chance.
"Come on, sweet girl," he cajoled, her lips less than an inch away from his. "You know you want me to kiss you again. All you have to do is say yes..."
The engagement ring on her finger might stop Max from pursuing Hailey, but it will not temper the dirty thoughts he has running through his mind at the very sight of her. But when he finds out her secret, ALL BETS ARE OFF. There is some claiming to do, and he is just the man for the job. Deciding on a proposition that will be in both of their favor, this fake engagement can only go on for so long. It's an excuse to get close to her, so he will take it. Marriage, kids, and a white picket fence, aren't things that Max Sterling ever had in mind as a possibility, but spending time with Hailey Ellison as her "fiancé" gave him a glimpse of something that could be really special, if he would just let it. He would also need to convince Hailey of that fact and her insecurities will end up being their worst enemy. Max Sterling is a determined man and he will stop at nothing to chase away her doubts - one kiss and one touch at a time.
"Don't worry, sweet girl, I know exactly what to do to make your body purr."
Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde are a match made in heaven when it comes to writing contemporary romance. FAKING IT is just another example of that. Believe me when I say, you will fall HARD for Max and Hailey. You will adore them, root for them, and fall hard for them. Phillips and Wilde gives us another romance that will make you feel great, inside and out.
April 11, 2017
2.5 stars...
From my take on the synopsis of this book, I had expected something witty, with repartee, comedy, a hint of blackmail and electric chemistry. Faking it was a lot more sensitive, and softer than that with a slight tinge of banter and sexual teasing.
Third person writing doesn't hold very much interest for me. There's something incredibly detached about it when connecting with the MCs. You have to be supremely good to make it work. In this instance, it was pleasant enough.
The heroine of this book - a size 14 - was insecure. She'd shed 70 pounds in college, and had exactly one past lover who ended their relationship the following day essentially calling her fatty mcboom boom. The hero makes her own her body, and reintroduces sexual confidence in her. They fall for one another throughout the fake engagement.
It was pretty safe and actually quite nice to read.
This is a complete side note, but I was really shocked when the waitress serving the MCs in the restaurant didn't flirt with the H. And suddenly I got thinking, how could I have such a low opinion of women. In most cases waitresses are efficient and well-mannered - and not flirters. So what does that say about the kind of books out there where it's a common trope to have some kind of a waitress man-stealing flirty whore who gives dirty looks to the heroine. The books published portray a certain quality of women, and though it shouldn't have been a big thing at all, the little things leave an impression. Of course despite all this, I knew the positive portrayal of women wouldn't last. There was light OW drama where the H's "ex" (I put that mildly - 3 dates + 2 kisses; he hated her) became a nuisance/ stalker who preyed on the heroines insecurities.
From my take on the synopsis of this book, I had expected something witty, with repartee, comedy, a hint of blackmail and electric chemistry. Faking it was a lot more sensitive, and softer than that with a slight tinge of banter and sexual teasing.
Third person writing doesn't hold very much interest for me. There's something incredibly detached about it when connecting with the MCs. You have to be supremely good to make it work. In this instance, it was pleasant enough.
The heroine of this book - a size 14 - was insecure. She'd shed 70 pounds in college, and had exactly one past lover who ended their relationship the following day essentially calling her fatty mcboom boom. The hero makes her own her body, and reintroduces sexual confidence in her. They fall for one another throughout the fake engagement.
It was pretty safe and actually quite nice to read.
This is a complete side note, but I was really shocked when the waitress serving the MCs in the restaurant didn't flirt with the H. And suddenly I got thinking, how could I have such a low opinion of women. In most cases waitresses are efficient and well-mannered - and not flirters. So what does that say about the kind of books out there where it's a common trope to have some kind of a waitress man-stealing flirty whore who gives dirty looks to the heroine. The books published portray a certain quality of women, and though it shouldn't have been a big thing at all, the little things leave an impression. Of course despite all this, I knew the positive portrayal of women wouldn't last. There was light OW drama where the H's "ex" (I put that mildly - 3 dates + 2 kisses; he hated her) became a nuisance/ stalker who preyed on the heroines insecurities.
April 11, 2017
What started as a sexy, flirty, temporary engagement is about to become more than bachelor Max Sterling ever anticipated.
FAKING IT, my all new sexy, STANDALONE with Erika Wilde is live!
Amazon US ➜ http://amzn.to/2oTDEow
Amazon UK ➜ https://goo.gl/FOhLyF
iBooks ➜ https://goo.gl/WfYtr6
Nook ➜ https://goo.gl/F7OGy1
Kobo ➜ https://goo.gl/8aKv8A
Google Play ➜ https://goo.gl/LQd7RV
Paperback ➜ http://amzn.to/2oPFlDH
FAKING IT, my all new sexy, STANDALONE with Erika Wilde is live!
Amazon US ➜ http://amzn.to/2oTDEow
Amazon UK ➜ https://goo.gl/FOhLyF
iBooks ➜ https://goo.gl/WfYtr6
Nook ➜ https://goo.gl/F7OGy1
Kobo ➜ https://goo.gl/8aKv8A
Google Play ➜ https://goo.gl/LQd7RV
Paperback ➜ http://amzn.to/2oPFlDH
July 13, 2019
I wish Max is not that perfect. I wish he has some dark kink or at least annoying kink so i can relate to him as human. I mean come on! There is no way a man can be that perfect.
But then i remember the series is Book Boyfriend. Well thats explain why max is super perfect. To all of the romance fan, we do have our own book boyfriend. Whom we secretly 'loves'. Like many perfect over the top romance story, this book serves its purpose. Likeable heroine with self esteem issue, perfect hero, loving and supporting second characters who just so perfect.
Dont we all hope we can have our own 'perfect'? Sigh.....
3 stars
But then i remember the series is Book Boyfriend. Well thats explain why max is super perfect. To all of the romance fan, we do have our own book boyfriend. Whom we secretly 'loves'. Like many perfect over the top romance story, this book serves its purpose. Likeable heroine with self esteem issue, perfect hero, loving and supporting second characters who just so perfect.
Dont we all hope we can have our own 'perfect'? Sigh.....
3 stars
October 27, 2017
I really enjoyed this sexy little book by Carly Phillips! I loved it for all the reasons you'd expect - It's sexy and swoony with a drop dead gorgeous hero, But Max is also sweet and loving. Hailey isn't your typical romance heroine. She's gorgeous, but also curvy and a bit insecure. That level of realness and attention to character detail is why I really enjoyed this book. It speaks to every woman. Kudos, Carly!
Aside from my character love, the storyline, execution, and writing are all top notch. Overall, it's a wonderfully entertaining story that I'd recommend to all romance readers!
Aside from my character love, the storyline, execution, and writing are all top notch. Overall, it's a wonderfully entertaining story that I'd recommend to all romance readers!
June 2, 2017
Very cute love story. He is rich, handsome, and fairly nice. She is almost too nice, pretty and has some self esteem issues because of her weight.
She makes up a fake fiancé to help promote her matchmaking business and makes the mistake of using his name to a few clients. When he finds out he makes a deal. He will play the part of her fiancé if she will play the part, also. He thinks that will get his mother and the psycho chick who wants to marry him off his back. Then he might get the added bonus of getting our heroine between the sheets, in the chair, or anywhere else.
Good little romance.
She makes up a fake fiancé to help promote her matchmaking business and makes the mistake of using his name to a few clients. When he finds out he makes a deal. He will play the part of her fiancé if she will play the part, also. He thinks that will get his mother and the psycho chick who wants to marry him off his back. Then he might get the added bonus of getting our heroine between the sheets, in the chair, or anywhere else.
Good little romance.
April 5, 2017
***5 ‘ Are You Ready to Beg’ Stars***
I always get excited to dive into a Carly Phillips & Erika Wilde book. They are always filled with sweet and smexy moments, a good dose of humor and lots of heart, but holy hell, this one is my favorite by far! This one just hit all the right spots *BSEG* from the start and pulled out all those feels.
Max. That man and believe me when I say he is all man, is just OMG total book boyfriend. He’s all kinds of wicked dirty alpha male but with a laid back vibe that pulls you in. He’s gentle, compassionate and protective and when he sees something he wants, he goes all in.
I simply got Hailey. There were so many issues she had that I could empathize with as well as how she dealt, or didn’t deal with them, and while my heart bled for her, it also cheered for her. She’s sweet, sassy and highly intelligent and driven. She has built a business from the ground up and has prospered which told me that she had the strength to overcome her demons.
Their fake engagement to lovers story had me all kinds of swoony and twitterpated, as well as needing an arctic temp bath! Max and Hailey together simply worked for me. They brought out the best in each other and made the other stronger for it. I loved their flirting, but also loved how open and honest they were with each other. Max letting Hailey take the lead while still being in charge was HOT! Their journey wasn’t drama free, but it was handled well and I loved how it ended up bringing them together.
So to reiterate...This is my favorite book and couple of theirs thus far (Yes, I’m leaving some wiggle room in there). It brought out all the feel, had me turning the pages to see what would happen next and feeling just a little put out at the end because I couldn’t spend more time with Max and Hailey, but there are more Book Boyfriends to come so hopefully we’ll be getting a few updates then!
~ Copy provided by the author/review crew ~
I always get excited to dive into a Carly Phillips & Erika Wilde book. They are always filled with sweet and smexy moments, a good dose of humor and lots of heart, but holy hell, this one is my favorite by far! This one just hit all the right spots *BSEG* from the start and pulled out all those feels.
Max. That man and believe me when I say he is all man, is just OMG total book boyfriend. He’s all kinds of wicked dirty alpha male but with a laid back vibe that pulls you in. He’s gentle, compassionate and protective and when he sees something he wants, he goes all in.
I simply got Hailey. There were so many issues she had that I could empathize with as well as how she dealt, or didn’t deal with them, and while my heart bled for her, it also cheered for her. She’s sweet, sassy and highly intelligent and driven. She has built a business from the ground up and has prospered which told me that she had the strength to overcome her demons.
Their fake engagement to lovers story had me all kinds of swoony and twitterpated, as well as needing an arctic temp bath! Max and Hailey together simply worked for me. They brought out the best in each other and made the other stronger for it. I loved their flirting, but also loved how open and honest they were with each other. Max letting Hailey take the lead while still being in charge was HOT! Their journey wasn’t drama free, but it was handled well and I loved how it ended up bringing them together.
So to reiterate...This is my favorite book and couple of theirs thus far (Yes, I’m leaving some wiggle room in there). It brought out all the feel, had me turning the pages to see what would happen next and feeling just a little put out at the end because I couldn’t spend more time with Max and Hailey, but there are more Book Boyfriends to come so hopefully we’ll be getting a few updates then!
~ Copy provided by the author/review crew ~
April 28, 2020
Faking it is the 2nd book in the book boyfriend's series by Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde. It is the story of Max and Hailey. Max is a real estate agent at the firm in which the characters from book one work, and Hailey is a matchmaker. Max is looking for a property for Hailey’s business. Max has been infatuated with the matchmaker from the start…. only one problem... she is engaged. When Max and Hailey go out to celebrate after finally closing a deal on Hailey’s new property...they run into the mother of one of Hailey’s clients. He can tell Hailey is immediately very uncomfortable. Max starts catching on to why Hailey is acting so sheepish when the woman states that she has been waiting to meet the infamous fiancée….real estate agent Max Sterling….wait…. what?? When Max catches on to Hailey’s charade…. he has no problem playing Hailey’s fake fiancée…
My thoughts:
This book was so much better than the 1st book...I definitely do not have to “fake” how much I enjoyed it!! I really liked Max and Hailey. Hailey is beautiful, but still has curves and real body issues. Her insecurities are very relatable. Max is adorable, sweet, funny, protective, respectful, sexy...basically an all-around good guy. I loved the banter in this book between not only Hailey and Max, but from the secondary characters as well!! This book was a great read, and I'm excited to meet the next “book boyfriend” in the series!!
Check out my blog for more book fun @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
My thoughts:
This book was so much better than the 1st book...I definitely do not have to “fake” how much I enjoyed it!! I really liked Max and Hailey. Hailey is beautiful, but still has curves and real body issues. Her insecurities are very relatable. Max is adorable, sweet, funny, protective, respectful, sexy...basically an all-around good guy. I loved the banter in this book between not only Hailey and Max, but from the secondary characters as well!! This book was a great read, and I'm excited to meet the next “book boyfriend” in the series!!
Check out my blog for more book fun @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
February 11, 2020
The book nullified all my expectations.
It's a "fake relationship" romance novel. Max is a delectable bachelor. Hailey runs a reputable matchmaking agency, yet fails to find a partner for herself. She even wears an engagement ring to ward off unwanted male attention because of her haunting insecurities and lack of self-confidence. When her lie about her marital status is revealed, Max steps in and saves the damsel in distress like a knight in a shining armor.
I strongly identified with the heroine and her body issues. I am glad I had the chance to finally read about an ordinary, curvy female character whose body type diverges from the stereotypical hourglass figure.
The romance was sizzling and the characters' chemistry was undeniable.
My only problem was the third person narration. Given that I listened to the audiobook, I felt more disentangled from the story that I would have felt, had I read a physical copy of the book.
Other than that, the novel turned out to be much more than the typical charade of fake dating I initially thought it would be.
It's a "fake relationship" romance novel. Max is a delectable bachelor. Hailey runs a reputable matchmaking agency, yet fails to find a partner for herself. She even wears an engagement ring to ward off unwanted male attention because of her haunting insecurities and lack of self-confidence. When her lie about her marital status is revealed, Max steps in and saves the damsel in distress like a knight in a shining armor.
I strongly identified with the heroine and her body issues. I am glad I had the chance to finally read about an ordinary, curvy female character whose body type diverges from the stereotypical hourglass figure.
The romance was sizzling and the characters' chemistry was undeniable.
My only problem was the third person narration. Given that I listened to the audiobook, I felt more disentangled from the story that I would have felt, had I read a physical copy of the book.
Other than that, the novel turned out to be much more than the typical charade of fake dating I initially thought it would be.
dnf
April 29, 2024DNF. Too much shaming of thin women to make the FMC feel better. You can be proud of your body and happy to be curvy without putting other women down. I'm listening to the audio book so I'm not exactly how far in I am, maybe 40% or so, and there have already been disparaging comments about thin women by the MMC, FMC, and FMC's best friend and I'm over it.
Onto the next!
Onto the next!
April 16, 2017
3.5 Stars
April 12, 2017
4.5 stars
I love the writing partnership of Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde and a book like Faking It is exactly why; they take what could be considered a tired troupe and add a spin to it and make it fresh and new. Faking It is a “pretend engagement” story, but it is so far from typical and that what makes it stand out. I loved every flirty, steamy, and fun moment of this story.
Hailey Ellison is confident in her matchmaking skills and she’s got a thriving business to prove it. However Hailey has self confidence problems stemming from being overweight most of her life and after a college boyfriend crushed her with his words. Wanting to keep her clients centered on finding the right match for them and keep some of her male customers from hitting on her Hailey invented a fake fiancé only she used the name of someone real, her real estate agent Max Sterling. Max who has had a hard time keeping things professional and has only managed knowing she is engaged to someone else.
As I sit here and write this review I’m smiling because this book just made me happy. I loved that Hailey gets “caught” in her lie and Max sees it as the perfect opportunity to spend some time with his “fiancée.” Their chemistry was off the charts, but Max was determined to make sure Hailey was completely on board and he was more than happy to build the tension and make it worth the wait.
A mutual arrangement has them continuing their ruse and the longer they play at being engaged the more the feelings between them grow. It was fun watching them fall even though it scared them both and neither was ready to admit it to the other. While doubts and a crazy ex plague them, in the end it was the trust they’d built, their intense feelings, and their ability to communicate effectively that helped them to see what they had was indeed special.
Faking It was a breath of fresh air and I can’t wait to see what this duo has in store for readers next!
ARC provided by the authors foe a voluntary review.
I love the writing partnership of Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde and a book like Faking It is exactly why; they take what could be considered a tired troupe and add a spin to it and make it fresh and new. Faking It is a “pretend engagement” story, but it is so far from typical and that what makes it stand out. I loved every flirty, steamy, and fun moment of this story.
Hailey Ellison is confident in her matchmaking skills and she’s got a thriving business to prove it. However Hailey has self confidence problems stemming from being overweight most of her life and after a college boyfriend crushed her with his words. Wanting to keep her clients centered on finding the right match for them and keep some of her male customers from hitting on her Hailey invented a fake fiancé only she used the name of someone real, her real estate agent Max Sterling. Max who has had a hard time keeping things professional and has only managed knowing she is engaged to someone else.
As I sit here and write this review I’m smiling because this book just made me happy. I loved that Hailey gets “caught” in her lie and Max sees it as the perfect opportunity to spend some time with his “fiancée.” Their chemistry was off the charts, but Max was determined to make sure Hailey was completely on board and he was more than happy to build the tension and make it worth the wait.
A mutual arrangement has them continuing their ruse and the longer they play at being engaged the more the feelings between them grow. It was fun watching them fall even though it scared them both and neither was ready to admit it to the other. While doubts and a crazy ex plague them, in the end it was the trust they’d built, their intense feelings, and their ability to communicate effectively that helped them to see what they had was indeed special.
Faking It was a breath of fresh air and I can’t wait to see what this duo has in store for readers next!
ARC provided by the authors foe a voluntary review.
January 23, 2020
I thought that this book was good
November 12, 2018
Hot, hot HAWWTTTTT!!!
This book was sooo steamy, i wasn't prepared!! Lol!
Aside from the steam that this book generated, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, more than I expected to. It was a quick and easy read!It had good smut, but also a cute romance/love story underneath it all. Max is everything a woman wants in a man. Let go through this list, that every girl wants in a man:
Handsome ....✓
Successful ....✓
Smart ....✓
Caring ...✓
Charismatic ...✓
Funny ...✓
Makes you feel like a QUEEN ...✓
Protective (but not overly) ...✓
Willing to put his heart out there ...✓
Good in bed ...✓
Talks dirty as well as he can talk business...✓
LADIES: Am i missing something???! lol
This book was sooo steamy, i wasn't prepared!! Lol!
Aside from the steam that this book generated, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, more than I expected to. It was a quick and easy read!It had good smut, but also a cute romance/love story underneath it all. Max is everything a woman wants in a man. Let go through this list, that every girl wants in a man:
Handsome ....✓
Successful ....✓
Smart ....✓
Caring ...✓
Charismatic ...✓
Funny ...✓
Makes you feel like a QUEEN ...✓
Protective (but not overly) ...✓
Willing to put his heart out there ...✓
Good in bed ...✓
Talks dirty as well as he can talk business...✓
LADIES: Am i missing something???! lol
May 10, 2019
OKAY, so this duo has done it again! **swoon**
5++ Sweet Girl Stars!!
Hailey and Max were ridiculously good together. From their banter to their sexy sexy, it was all oh so swoony! The story these authors put together is not a new story. And when you encounter a plot like this one, you have to rely on how the book makes you feel when you read it to see how it sets itself apart from its many counter parts already written. I WAS GIDDY! I WAS SMITTEN. I WAS DELIRIOUSLY HAPPY .... from beginning to end! GAH, I just wanted to read about them both forever! :)
I'm not gonna lie and tell you this book has twist and turns and surprises, because it really doesnt ... but it has a wow factor and that is why you should all read the journey of Hailey and Max. It has sooooo much heart you guys! Hailey's growth especially. I loved her dearly. Max's determination and charisma coupled with Hailey's insecurities and loveliness made for just such a perfect afternoon read!
sigh ... just read the book. seriously, read it. #TRUST
Copy provided by Carly’s Review Crew for early review
5++ Sweet Girl Stars!!
Hailey and Max were ridiculously good together. From their banter to their sexy sexy, it was all oh so swoony! The story these authors put together is not a new story. And when you encounter a plot like this one, you have to rely on how the book makes you feel when you read it to see how it sets itself apart from its many counter parts already written. I WAS GIDDY! I WAS SMITTEN. I WAS DELIRIOUSLY HAPPY .... from beginning to end! GAH, I just wanted to read about them both forever! :)
I'm not gonna lie and tell you this book has twist and turns and surprises, because it really doesnt ... but it has a wow factor and that is why you should all read the journey of Hailey and Max. It has sooooo much heart you guys! Hailey's growth especially. I loved her dearly. Max's determination and charisma coupled with Hailey's insecurities and loveliness made for just such a perfect afternoon read!
sigh ... just read the book. seriously, read it. #TRUST
Copy provided by Carly’s Review Crew for early review
June 16, 2017
This was one of those sweet books that you can just pick up and get lost in for a few hours. And today that was exactly what I needed.
Hailey created a fake fiance to help her credibility as a match maker and when a misunderstanding leads to Max being the assumed intended he sees it as his chance to avoid family interference in his own love life as well as a serendipitous excuse to get his hands on the lady he thought was already taken.
Unfortunately Hailey has a few hangups due to her previous weight issues. But luckily for her Max is a huge fan of exactly how Hailey looks and the chemistry between them is strong enough for them to throw caution to the wind and enjoy themselves.
The connection between these two was great and Max was so patient and caring of Hailey and her issues. Then throw in some smoking hot sex, a few great secondary characters and the whole thing was a great read.
Check out my reviews here
Hailey created a fake fiance to help her credibility as a match maker and when a misunderstanding leads to Max being the assumed intended he sees it as his chance to avoid family interference in his own love life as well as a serendipitous excuse to get his hands on the lady he thought was already taken.
Unfortunately Hailey has a few hangups due to her previous weight issues. But luckily for her Max is a huge fan of exactly how Hailey looks and the chemistry between them is strong enough for them to throw caution to the wind and enjoy themselves.
The connection between these two was great and Max was so patient and caring of Hailey and her issues. Then throw in some smoking hot sex, a few great secondary characters and the whole thing was a great read.
Check out my reviews here
April 13, 2017
4
"We'll take it slow"
Stars
Faking It is the book I didn't know I needed. I was coming off a long funk--and by that I mean it took me a week to read a book that everyone else loves, but I couldn't get into it--and needed something different. Faking It isn't necessarily light and fluffy, but it isn't the dark or heavy book I typically find myself immersed in.
Meet Hailey, matchmaking professional. She's great at matching others, but always struggles with her own relationships.
Meet Max, real estate agent extraordinaire. Busy with work, he never makes time to find that special someone so his mother is constantly finding women for him.
Hailey decides to create an imaginary fiance. This will make her look like she knows what's happening in love because she will have someone in her life to love.
Max is lusting after his client, even though he believes she belongs to another. He's respectable though and never--and I mean NEVER--crosses any lines. He treats her with kindness and respect and he respects the relationship she is in.
When Max and Hailey find themselves in a slight situation, they take this fake fiance thing to a new level.
And they do that with each other. It's a mutual relationship. They need each other. It'll end eventually. Right?!
I loved watching these two find each other. I mean, yes, they were pretending, but it's nice to watch those shields drop.
There isn't much conflict in this story, which is nice. Their conflict is internal and it's mostly Hailey's hangups that cause issues. But they aren't real issues because Max is perfect.
Faking It is the book I didn't know I needed. I was coming off a long funk--and by that I mean it took me a week to read a book that everyone else loves, but I couldn't get into it--and needed something different. Faking It isn't necessarily light and fluffy, but it isn't the dark or heavy book I typically find myself immersed in.
Meet Hailey, matchmaking professional. She's great at matching others, but always struggles with her own relationships.
Meet Max, real estate agent extraordinaire. Busy with work, he never makes time to find that special someone so his mother is constantly finding women for him.
Hailey decides to create an imaginary fiance. This will make her look like she knows what's happening in love because she will have someone in her life to love.
Max is lusting after his client, even though he believes she belongs to another. He's respectable though and never--and I mean NEVER--crosses any lines. He treats her with kindness and respect and he respects the relationship she is in.
When Max and Hailey find themselves in a slight situation, they take this fake fiance thing to a new level.
And they do that with each other. It's a mutual relationship. They need each other. It'll end eventually. Right?!
"How do you want me?"
"Every fucking way I can have you."
I loved watching these two find each other. I mean, yes, they were pretending, but it's nice to watch those shields drop.
There isn't much conflict in this story, which is nice. Their conflict is internal and it's mostly Hailey's hangups that cause issues. But they aren't real issues because Max is perfect.
"When it happens, it's going to be because you fucking beg for it. Understand?"
April 12, 2017
*Arc kindly provided for an honest review*
Faking it was a short and sexy read.
Hailey is a reputable Matchmaker in Chicago. Her business is booming and Hailey needs to relocate Ellison Agency. There is no better real estate broker in Chicago than the famous Max Sterling!
And let me tell you, MAX STERLING is HOT HOT HOT.
Due to her job, Hailey claims to her clients and to Max that she is engaged . But we all know that it is not true. Hailey has not been in a serious relationship for a long time- if ever- and the last guy she dated, destroyed her self-esteem. Yes, Hailey is curvy but she is also sexy as hell and Max knows it and wants her!
Max discovers accidentally that Hailey is engaged, but to him! Oops!! He decides to carry on the engagement but on his terms.
“During the course of our engagement, for however long it lasts, I want the freedom to touch you and kiss you anytime I want.”
He just wants to love her and help her to let go, to let him take the wings which is a big ask. He wants to be the strength she needs.
Max makes Hailey feel strong and powerful, even though she can’t understand why he is interested in her, as she is definitely not his type- skinny, size zero model.
Will Max and Hailey get their HEA? Will Hailey let Max worship her?
Max Sterling is every woman’s dream. He is without a shadow of a doubt PRINCE CHARMING , he is full of romanticism and gave me butterflies on so many occasions. You can so feel the sizzling chemistry between and Hailey and Max.
I love that Wes and Nathalie and the rest of the gang were involved in the story! Once again, the writing duo of Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde did not disappoint. Faking It is fun, flirty, and oh so very sexy.
“When you believe it, when you’re ready to let me love you, I’ll be waiting for you and you know where to find me.”
Faking it was a short and sexy read.
Hailey is a reputable Matchmaker in Chicago. Her business is booming and Hailey needs to relocate Ellison Agency. There is no better real estate broker in Chicago than the famous Max Sterling!
And let me tell you, MAX STERLING is HOT HOT HOT.
Due to her job, Hailey claims to her clients and to Max that she is engaged . But we all know that it is not true. Hailey has not been in a serious relationship for a long time- if ever- and the last guy she dated, destroyed her self-esteem. Yes, Hailey is curvy but she is also sexy as hell and Max knows it and wants her!
Max discovers accidentally that Hailey is engaged, but to him! Oops!! He decides to carry on the engagement but on his terms.
“During the course of our engagement, for however long it lasts, I want the freedom to touch you and kiss you anytime I want.”
He just wants to love her and help her to let go, to let him take the wings which is a big ask. He wants to be the strength she needs.
Max makes Hailey feel strong and powerful, even though she can’t understand why he is interested in her, as she is definitely not his type- skinny, size zero model.
Will Max and Hailey get their HEA? Will Hailey let Max worship her?
Max Sterling is every woman’s dream. He is without a shadow of a doubt PRINCE CHARMING , he is full of romanticism and gave me butterflies on so many occasions. You can so feel the sizzling chemistry between and Hailey and Max.
I love that Wes and Nathalie and the rest of the gang were involved in the story! Once again, the writing duo of Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde did not disappoint. Faking It is fun, flirty, and oh so very sexy.
“When you believe it, when you’re ready to let me love you, I’ll be waiting for you and you know where to find me.”
February 27, 2021
Faking It is a humorous fake relationship romance. I connected with the hero and heroine immediately. Carly Phillips is a brilliant romance author who knows how to write contemporary romance. With plenty of funny lines in the dialogue and a full cast of characters, you won't be able to put down Faking It. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
April 7, 2017
Ohhh I hadn't realised that Faking It would feature one of the character we were introduced to in Big Shot - I love it when a series of stand-alones ties together individual characters stories :)
Max is a partner in a reality firm with Wes from Big Shot, he takes great pride in his work matching the perfect specification for the client. He is determined to find the perfect building for his gorgeous client of three months, Hailey.
Hailey is a professional match-maker, having steadily grown her business over the past few years she is ready to take the next step and buy her own building to incorporate her wish-list of both personal and professional property requirements. Although she is successful in her career her personal life leaves a lot to be desired. Following the latest disastrous date, Hailey decides to remove herself from the singles scene by pretending to be engaged, modelling her fake fiance on the delightful Max Sterling. Unfortunately, this also acts as a deterrent to the real Max acting on his attraction to Hailey.
When a chance encounter with a former clients mother unearths Hailey's deception, Max is determined to take advantage of the situation to explore the attraction between himself and Hailey.
I adored the smooth progression of the relationship between Max and Hailey alongside the beautiful romancing Max undertakes.
Unfortunately, Hailey has a lot of emotional barriers especially where physical intimacy is concerned due to her previous weight problem and college relationship. Hailey was raised by her aunt and uncle following the death of her parents at a young age. Her aunt used food as a comfort substitute and as a consequence Hailey developed an unhealthy relationship with food. Although she took control of her diet and lifestyle during her college years, Hailey still carries the deep emotional damage where her body image is concerned.
It is obvious Max and Hailey belong together and not just in a fake capacity but the one main factor standing in their way is Hailey's lack of faith in the attraction and feelings Max has for her. I've said this before but you can't establish a relationship on insecurities, you have to love and accept yourself, flaws and all, before you can trust someone else's love for you.
Max enables Hailey to thrive and blossom with his care and attention but ultimately she has to take responsibility for her own happiness.
It was lovely to see the inclusion of the other characters from Big Shot and I cannot wait to see what is in store for Kyle in Well Built :)
Max is a partner in a reality firm with Wes from Big Shot, he takes great pride in his work matching the perfect specification for the client. He is determined to find the perfect building for his gorgeous client of three months, Hailey.
Hailey is a professional match-maker, having steadily grown her business over the past few years she is ready to take the next step and buy her own building to incorporate her wish-list of both personal and professional property requirements. Although she is successful in her career her personal life leaves a lot to be desired. Following the latest disastrous date, Hailey decides to remove herself from the singles scene by pretending to be engaged, modelling her fake fiance on the delightful Max Sterling. Unfortunately, this also acts as a deterrent to the real Max acting on his attraction to Hailey.
When a chance encounter with a former clients mother unearths Hailey's deception, Max is determined to take advantage of the situation to explore the attraction between himself and Hailey.
I adored the smooth progression of the relationship between Max and Hailey alongside the beautiful romancing Max undertakes.
Unfortunately, Hailey has a lot of emotional barriers especially where physical intimacy is concerned due to her previous weight problem and college relationship. Hailey was raised by her aunt and uncle following the death of her parents at a young age. Her aunt used food as a comfort substitute and as a consequence Hailey developed an unhealthy relationship with food. Although she took control of her diet and lifestyle during her college years, Hailey still carries the deep emotional damage where her body image is concerned.
It is obvious Max and Hailey belong together and not just in a fake capacity but the one main factor standing in their way is Hailey's lack of faith in the attraction and feelings Max has for her. I've said this before but you can't establish a relationship on insecurities, you have to love and accept yourself, flaws and all, before you can trust someone else's love for you.
Max enables Hailey to thrive and blossom with his care and attention but ultimately she has to take responsibility for her own happiness.
It was lovely to see the inclusion of the other characters from Big Shot and I cannot wait to see what is in store for Kyle in Well Built :)
April 6, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Authors and Rock Star PR***
The writing team of Carly Phillips and Erike Wilde are favorites of mine, and books like this one are the reason. The characters are always compelling, the story lines are interesting and you are always engaged from the beginning. They move quickly, but not so quickly that you feel like you are missing parts of the story, but quickly enough that you get right to the good stuff. Which in this case was an elevator ride I would like to take with Max. OMG...that scene...I love the emotion of it, the sheer idea that he was Not. Able. To. Resist. her for even long enough to find out what was going on, sheer perfection.
Max and Hailey were so fun. I loved that you know, from the beginning, that he wants her, but is respecting the fact that he thinks she is engaged. This gives such a great depth to his character, and lets you know really from the beginning that he is in this for the long haul. He tells you this, and her, and due to some things in her past, it takes her a while to open up to him fully. And, the writing and the pacing are strong enough that this is ok, that you stay engaged with their story even though it is technically a slow burn working it's way up to a full physical relationship.
I love that Hailey is not a traditional heroine...but I also loved that this was not an issue or a focus. Real women come in sizes other than 0 and with all sorts of different hair colors and body types...kudos for letting her be real and for letting Max see only a woman he wants.
The story itself was a little predictable, but in the way that a romance novel is. There will be a meeting, chemistry, some hot sexy times, and a happily ever after. It is the getting there, the characters, and their interactions, their personalities and the fact that they feel like people you get to know through the story.
And, have I mentioned that kiss? Because, well, that kiss.
I recommend this book.
The writing team of Carly Phillips and Erike Wilde are favorites of mine, and books like this one are the reason. The characters are always compelling, the story lines are interesting and you are always engaged from the beginning. They move quickly, but not so quickly that you feel like you are missing parts of the story, but quickly enough that you get right to the good stuff. Which in this case was an elevator ride I would like to take with Max. OMG...that scene...I love the emotion of it, the sheer idea that he was Not. Able. To. Resist. her for even long enough to find out what was going on, sheer perfection.
Max and Hailey were so fun. I loved that you know, from the beginning, that he wants her, but is respecting the fact that he thinks she is engaged. This gives such a great depth to his character, and lets you know really from the beginning that he is in this for the long haul. He tells you this, and her, and due to some things in her past, it takes her a while to open up to him fully. And, the writing and the pacing are strong enough that this is ok, that you stay engaged with their story even though it is technically a slow burn working it's way up to a full physical relationship.
I love that Hailey is not a traditional heroine...but I also loved that this was not an issue or a focus. Real women come in sizes other than 0 and with all sorts of different hair colors and body types...kudos for letting her be real and for letting Max see only a woman he wants.
The story itself was a little predictable, but in the way that a romance novel is. There will be a meeting, chemistry, some hot sexy times, and a happily ever after. It is the getting there, the characters, and their interactions, their personalities and the fact that they feel like people you get to know through the story.
And, have I mentioned that kiss? Because, well, that kiss.
I recommend this book.
May 20, 2018
So here is this book in a nutshell. Spoilers may be included.
Hero is handsome most wanted bachelor, rich with amazing friends and family.
Heroine is ugly duckling turned beautiful swan with issues with men and how she looks. But she shouldn't be because she looks amazing.
They fake an engagement.
During all the faking they fall in love.
At the end some minor drama, they don't speak for a week.
Then they kiss and make up.
Cute cute cute.
If you are looking for sweet no drama read. This is it. Also I didn't mind predictability.
Hero is handsome most wanted bachelor, rich with amazing friends and family.
Heroine is ugly duckling turned beautiful swan with issues with men and how she looks. But she shouldn't be because she looks amazing.
They fake an engagement.
During all the faking they fall in love.
At the end some minor drama, they don't speak for a week.
Then they kiss and make up.
Cute cute cute.
If you are looking for sweet no drama read. This is it. Also I didn't mind predictability.
April 4, 2017
Hailey Ellison, 26, owns the Ellison Agency, a professional matchmaking company for the wealthy and affluent with a 90% success rate after four years in business. She’s now looking to expand her company and move into a bigger building. Even with her success rate, she is not so successful in her personal relationships with men. She has self-esteem issues surrounding her size 14 figure. A total douche in college took her virginity then texted her ending the relationship by saying he wasn’t in to fat chicks. Since then she has broken off any relationship that reaches the time to get naked part. She concocts a fake fiancé so she can take a break from the dating scene without losing face with her clients.
Max Sterling is a luxury real estate broker in Chicago. He is 30 and happy with his status as a bachelor. He comes from a supportive, close-knit family and is the youngest of three siblings. His brother and sister are happily married with kids.
Max has been Hailey’s broker for three months. He has been attracted to her but because of her engagement status hasn’t acted on it. When Max discovers it’s fake, and she’s used him as the example for her fiancé, he decides to take advantage of it. He wants to see where his attraction to Hailey could go and get rid of an annoying woman who won’t take the hint he’s not interested.
Max is swoon worthy. He is a little alpha, charming, sensual, seductive, funny, kind and caring. He realizes what Hailey needs to feel secure - in her self body image and his feelings for her - and sets it all in motion. He gets that she has to process it all before deciding on a course of action. He is patient, never rushing her or pushing past her comfort zone.
I liked all the supporting characters, Brielle, Hailey’s best friend, Max’s friends and family. And I LOVED that Hailey was curvy and not a model thin bag of bones!
Allison Brooks is evil and vile and should be burned at the stake. What a horrible woman.
My favorite line in the entire book:
“If his penis had the ability, it would have yawned from boredom.” Lol
It was so much fun watching Max and Hailey get to know each other and fit into each other‘s world. I want more of this couple and their friends and family. I can’t wait for the next installment!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by the authors.
Max Sterling is a luxury real estate broker in Chicago. He is 30 and happy with his status as a bachelor. He comes from a supportive, close-knit family and is the youngest of three siblings. His brother and sister are happily married with kids.
Max has been Hailey’s broker for three months. He has been attracted to her but because of her engagement status hasn’t acted on it. When Max discovers it’s fake, and she’s used him as the example for her fiancé, he decides to take advantage of it. He wants to see where his attraction to Hailey could go and get rid of an annoying woman who won’t take the hint he’s not interested.
Max is swoon worthy. He is a little alpha, charming, sensual, seductive, funny, kind and caring. He realizes what Hailey needs to feel secure - in her self body image and his feelings for her - and sets it all in motion. He gets that she has to process it all before deciding on a course of action. He is patient, never rushing her or pushing past her comfort zone.
I liked all the supporting characters, Brielle, Hailey’s best friend, Max’s friends and family. And I LOVED that Hailey was curvy and not a model thin bag of bones!
Allison Brooks is evil and vile and should be burned at the stake. What a horrible woman.
My favorite line in the entire book:
“If his penis had the ability, it would have yawned from boredom.” Lol
It was so much fun watching Max and Hailey get to know each other and fit into each other‘s world. I want more of this couple and their friends and family. I can’t wait for the next installment!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by the authors.
December 30, 2019
4 fake #not Stars
This book was adorable!!!! I liked how he took care of her insecurities....
I want a Max for me....
This book was adorable!!!! I liked how he took care of her insecurities....
I want a Max for me....
June 4, 2017
4 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 11, 2017
Confirmed bachelor Max Sterling isn't into rescuing damsels in distress, but when the very tempting Hailey Ellison needs his help, there's only one thing for him to do. Step in and pose as her loving fiancé. Except there is nothing fake about his attraction to her, or how much he wants her beneath him in his bed, moaning his name. But what starts as a sexy, flirty, temporary engagement, quickly becomes something more serious that neither one ever anticipated.
••••••
REVIEW: FAKING IT by Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde is a stand alone, erotic romance story in the authors’ Book Boyfriend series. This is real estate mogul Max Sterling, and professional matchmaker Hailey Ellison’s story line. FAKING IT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Several characters cross over for cohesion and familiarity.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Max and Hailey) FAKING IT is a fake fiancé trope in that both Hailey and Max are in need of an imaginary fiancé. For months Hailey has pretended to be engaged to ensure the success of her matchmaking business but had no intentions of revealing any important information or the truth about the who and why. Enter Max Sterling, Hailey’s real estate agent, and the man who stars in all of her fantasies and dreams including the use of the name Max Sterling as her imaginary fiancé. Max is desperate to stop his mother’s meddling in his personal life and offers Hailey the option of joining together for mutual benefits. What ensues is the building relationship between Max and Hailey, and the fall out when the truth is finally revealed.
Hailey has issues with self-esteem including a struggle with weight and body image that pulls at Hailey’s need to succeed. Max is a successful real estate agent who finds himself attracted to a woman who claims to be engaged. Their mutual need for a fiancé finds our couple falling in love but Hailey struggles with the possibility of an expiry date on their building relationship. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of sexually graphic, over the top language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Wes and Natalie, renovation expert Kyle Coleman, and Connor Prescott, who works in the construction side of the real estate business as an investor and property flipper-all first introduced in Big Shot #1. We are also introduced to Hailey’s assistant and best friend Brielle; Max’s parents Grace and Douglas Sterling; as well as Max’s his brother Alex, and his sister Kristen. The requisite evil is Addison Brooks, a woman who refuses to take no for an answer.
The world building looks as the building relationship between Max and Hailey, and the potential for fall out when all is revealed. The friendship and camaraderie between Max and his friends leads to some humorous moments, as well as the heartbreaking possibility when the time on Max and Hailey’s fake fiancé story line expires.
FAKING IT is a lighthearted, sweet and seductive story line with moments of humor, fun, falling in love and letting go of the past. We are witness to romance and love; friendship and family; betrayal and revenge. The premise is sexy, spicy and heartwarming; the characters are energetic and realistic; the romance is intimate and sensual. FAKING IT is a delightful and courageous story line as one woman steps out of her comfort zone and into the arms of the man with whom she will fall in love.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 11, 2017
Confirmed bachelor Max Sterling isn't into rescuing damsels in distress, but when the very tempting Hailey Ellison needs his help, there's only one thing for him to do. Step in and pose as her loving fiancé. Except there is nothing fake about his attraction to her, or how much he wants her beneath him in his bed, moaning his name. But what starts as a sexy, flirty, temporary engagement, quickly becomes something more serious that neither one ever anticipated.
••••••
REVIEW: FAKING IT by Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde is a stand alone, erotic romance story in the authors’ Book Boyfriend series. This is real estate mogul Max Sterling, and professional matchmaker Hailey Ellison’s story line. FAKING IT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Several characters cross over for cohesion and familiarity.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Max and Hailey) FAKING IT is a fake fiancé trope in that both Hailey and Max are in need of an imaginary fiancé. For months Hailey has pretended to be engaged to ensure the success of her matchmaking business but had no intentions of revealing any important information or the truth about the who and why. Enter Max Sterling, Hailey’s real estate agent, and the man who stars in all of her fantasies and dreams including the use of the name Max Sterling as her imaginary fiancé. Max is desperate to stop his mother’s meddling in his personal life and offers Hailey the option of joining together for mutual benefits. What ensues is the building relationship between Max and Hailey, and the fall out when the truth is finally revealed.
Hailey has issues with self-esteem including a struggle with weight and body image that pulls at Hailey’s need to succeed. Max is a successful real estate agent who finds himself attracted to a woman who claims to be engaged. Their mutual need for a fiancé finds our couple falling in love but Hailey struggles with the possibility of an expiry date on their building relationship. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of sexually graphic, over the top language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Wes and Natalie, renovation expert Kyle Coleman, and Connor Prescott, who works in the construction side of the real estate business as an investor and property flipper-all first introduced in Big Shot #1. We are also introduced to Hailey’s assistant and best friend Brielle; Max’s parents Grace and Douglas Sterling; as well as Max’s his brother Alex, and his sister Kristen. The requisite evil is Addison Brooks, a woman who refuses to take no for an answer.
The world building looks as the building relationship between Max and Hailey, and the potential for fall out when all is revealed. The friendship and camaraderie between Max and his friends leads to some humorous moments, as well as the heartbreaking possibility when the time on Max and Hailey’s fake fiancé story line expires.
FAKING IT is a lighthearted, sweet and seductive story line with moments of humor, fun, falling in love and letting go of the past. We are witness to romance and love; friendship and family; betrayal and revenge. The premise is sexy, spicy and heartwarming; the characters are energetic and realistic; the romance is intimate and sensual. FAKING IT is a delightful and courageous story line as one woman steps out of her comfort zone and into the arms of the man with whom she will fall in love.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
April 6, 2017
Faking It is a standalone by one of my favorite duos! I know Carly and Erika will give me all the feels when I open one of their books. If you read Big Shot then you have already met Max Sterling! I liked him but now I am fully in love with the man. He is a filthy and sweet talker that can back it up. *Swoon*
Hailey is a successful matchmaker to the wealthy. She has a ninety percent success rate with her matches but she hasn't found her own match. She believes it's because she self-sabotages the relationships before they get to the next stage. Sex. She has her insecurities and when it gets close to rounding the bases she runs in the opposite direction. She hates that she does this especially after meeting her real estate broker, Max Sterling. Sexy as sin with a panty-melting smile Max Sterling. She wishes she had the confidence to put herself out there for him but she thinks he is totally out of her league. Why would a man want her? A curvy matchmaker that can't even get her own man? One that won't round the bases. What she doesn't know is that he wants her just as bad but one thing is in the way. The ring on her left finger.
Once Max figures out what Hailey has been hiding from him, he is elated and has an idea to help them both. A fake engagement. It's a win-win and if he can add in a fake fiancé with benefits his dream would come true. He would get a taste of the woman that he has lusted over for the past three months. Once he realizes her insecurities he is determined to show her that they are all unjustified. He wants her. Under him. On top of him. Anywhere he can have her. Show her that he can't get enough of her laugh, smile, and body. Will Max be able to believe that his desire is anything but fake?
I loved Max and Hailey! Max is smart, sexy, funny, and filthy flirt. I love the way he makes Hailey feel. And Hailey is an independent, smart, sassy, and sexy woman. She might not know it but she is. Will she be able to take a compliment from the sexy Max Sterling by the end of the book and believing it to be the truth or will she let her insecurities ruin what they can have? I thought that was an amazing part of the storyline. Building confidence. It's not easy.
Overall...this is a fast read that gave me all the feels. I laughed, cried, got hot and bothered, and made me want to dress up for no reason at all but to make myself feel sexy. I am very much looking forward to Kyle's story! They just keep getting better and better.
Quotes:
“We’re not done with this conversation,” he said in a deep, rough voice that was just as assertive as his uncompromising stance in front of her.
I think I’ve created a monster. One night of dirty phone sex and you turn everything I ask into an innuendo.
“I kind of feel like I’m back in high school and the hottest guy on campus just noticed me.”
Hailey is a successful matchmaker to the wealthy. She has a ninety percent success rate with her matches but she hasn't found her own match. She believes it's because she self-sabotages the relationships before they get to the next stage. Sex. She has her insecurities and when it gets close to rounding the bases she runs in the opposite direction. She hates that she does this especially after meeting her real estate broker, Max Sterling. Sexy as sin with a panty-melting smile Max Sterling. She wishes she had the confidence to put herself out there for him but she thinks he is totally out of her league. Why would a man want her? A curvy matchmaker that can't even get her own man? One that won't round the bases. What she doesn't know is that he wants her just as bad but one thing is in the way. The ring on her left finger.
Once Max figures out what Hailey has been hiding from him, he is elated and has an idea to help them both. A fake engagement. It's a win-win and if he can add in a fake fiancé with benefits his dream would come true. He would get a taste of the woman that he has lusted over for the past three months. Once he realizes her insecurities he is determined to show her that they are all unjustified. He wants her. Under him. On top of him. Anywhere he can have her. Show her that he can't get enough of her laugh, smile, and body. Will Max be able to believe that his desire is anything but fake?
I loved Max and Hailey! Max is smart, sexy, funny, and filthy flirt. I love the way he makes Hailey feel. And Hailey is an independent, smart, sassy, and sexy woman. She might not know it but she is. Will she be able to take a compliment from the sexy Max Sterling by the end of the book and believing it to be the truth or will she let her insecurities ruin what they can have? I thought that was an amazing part of the storyline. Building confidence. It's not easy.
Overall...this is a fast read that gave me all the feels. I laughed, cried, got hot and bothered, and made me want to dress up for no reason at all but to make myself feel sexy. I am very much looking forward to Kyle's story! They just keep getting better and better.
Quotes:
“We’re not done with this conversation,” he said in a deep, rough voice that was just as assertive as his uncompromising stance in front of her.
I think I’ve created a monster. One night of dirty phone sex and you turn everything I ask into an innuendo.
“I kind of feel like I’m back in high school and the hottest guy on campus just noticed me.”
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