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Make-Believe #1
Make-Believe Fiancé
Take one billionaire cowboy in need of a fiancée, add one divorced teacher with trust issues and mix in a fake engagement. What could possibly go wrong?
Gwen Alder is starting over — divorced and broke, she’s come to Billings, Montana for a new beginning. But waitressing in a roadside diner for the summer isn’t paying the bills, and she finds herself in over her head with no hope of catching up.
Heath Montgomery has it all — fame, fortune and a mega-watt smile, but one thing he doesn’t have is a date for his cousin’s wedding.
When the two of them cross paths, Heath has an idea — what if he paid her to be his date? No strings, no complications, just a simple business transaction — a way to finally win his father’s trust, and get his parents off his back about settling down once and for all.
She’s poor and plain. He’s wealthy and arrogant.
They didn’t want anything more than a simple arrangement. They never planned to fall in love. But sometimes cupid has a mind of his own.
* Make-Believe Fiancé is a clean and wholesome contemporary Christian romance, the first in a new series from bestselling author, Vivi Holt.
Gwen Alder is starting over — divorced and broke, she’s come to Billings, Montana for a new beginning. But waitressing in a roadside diner for the summer isn’t paying the bills, and she finds herself in over her head with no hope of catching up.
Heath Montgomery has it all — fame, fortune and a mega-watt smile, but one thing he doesn’t have is a date for his cousin’s wedding.
When the two of them cross paths, Heath has an idea — what if he paid her to be his date? No strings, no complications, just a simple business transaction — a way to finally win his father’s trust, and get his parents off his back about settling down once and for all.
She’s poor and plain. He’s wealthy and arrogant.
They didn’t want anything more than a simple arrangement. They never planned to fall in love. But sometimes cupid has a mind of his own.
* Make-Believe Fiancé is a clean and wholesome contemporary Christian romance, the first in a new series from bestselling author, Vivi Holt.
234 pages, ebook
First published May 24, 2018
2298 people are currently reading
952 people want to read
About the author
Vivi Holt
56 books454 followersVivi Holt writes inspirational romance. Of her books, readers say:
"The plot kept me enthralled and the pages turning"
"I cried and laughed"
"What an awesome ending. Can't wait for more!!"
Vivi lives in beautiful Brisbane, Australia with her husband and three young children. Growing up on a farm she learned to love the country life and now she writes about it in her books. History has always fascinated her as well, so writing historical romance seemed a natural progression. She loves horse-riding, hiking, and reading.
Her goal is to write touching, emotional and sweet romances stories that captivate the reader and transport them to another place and time.
Follow Vivi on:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/viviholt.aut...)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/vivi_holt)
Contact her at vivi@viviholt.com
"The plot kept me enthralled and the pages turning"
"I cried and laughed"
"What an awesome ending. Can't wait for more!!"
Vivi lives in beautiful Brisbane, Australia with her husband and three young children. Growing up on a farm she learned to love the country life and now she writes about it in her books. History has always fascinated her as well, so writing historical romance seemed a natural progression. She loves horse-riding, hiking, and reading.
Her goal is to write touching, emotional and sweet romances stories that captivate the reader and transport them to another place and time.
Follow Vivi on:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/viviholt.aut...)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/vivi_holt)
Contact her at vivi@viviholt.com
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
October 6, 2019
Corporate cowboy, Heath, convinces the destitute waitress, Gwen, to pretend to be his fake-fiance for his cousin's wedding in order to convince his father to give him the CEO position in the company. As they continue their charade past the wedding weekend, they begin to develop feelings for each other which they finally realize when it comes time to break up.
This isn't a fresh plot, so I wasn't bothered by the predictability there. However, the ending threw things off for me. It was just a little too unbelievable. I want to say this story is "cute" and I did enjoy parts of it. I think if the author had taken a little more time with the ending and resolving the issues that she made important to the characters (like Heath's church and his addiction to work), it would have been better.
This isn't a fresh plot, so I wasn't bothered by the predictability there. However, the ending threw things off for me. It was just a little too unbelievable. I want to say this story is "cute" and I did enjoy parts of it. I think if the author had taken a little more time with the ending and resolving the issues that she made important to the characters (like Heath's church and his addiction to work), it would have been better.
June 16, 2018
My first exposure to Vivi Holt was a short story titled The Lift which I enjoyed. That brought me to the Make-Believe Fiancé which I consider to be a well written clean romance, and which converted me into a full-fledged fan of her work. Every character was well developed, believable and authentic as was the story-line itself. For those looking for a fast read that will keep you involved from start to finish, look no further.
February 7, 2024
I wish I could have liked this more. There unfortunately was nothing unique about this book that made it stand out to me. Now, if I was in the mood to read a classic hallmark styled book which doesn't take too much thinking to enjoy the story? This would be a good choice.
However, when the main characters personalities bore me, it's disappointing.
It is quite a predictable story, but still enjoyable to an extent.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, when the main characters personalities bore me, it's disappointing.
It is quite a predictable story, but still enjoyable to an extent.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2020
Point number one: This book didn't have this cover on Amazon. I would have been much less likely to pick it up if it had.
Point number two: This came up in Amazon's search when I was specifically looking for romantic comedy. It's not romantic comedy.
Moving on...
I was looking for something new, tried this, and...nope. No substance to the romance, no character development, random side-plots (if you could even call them that) that didn't go anywhere, a totally cliched ex-girlfriend AND ex-husband (not the same person, lol), and a completely unbelievable and corny ending (which even the characters admitted--the corny part, at least. They seemed pretty convinced of its authenticity.) They didn't know each other at all, and yet we're supposed to believe that they can't live without each other by the end of the book? Yeah, nah.
And the hero's relationship with his father? I got whiplash from the way it turned on a dime, particularly at the end. Same for the main couple's relationship. Not that the changes were drastic, but they were still quick and constant, and at times unfathomable. And I really didn't buy the whole, "I'm a Christian, so I know I shouldn't lie, and I feel so bad, but what can I do?" line. It made the whole "God's important to me, so I hope He's important to you" conversation at the end feel really hypocritical and tacked on. I think I would have preferred the author leave out any references to the characters' faith altogether.
So no, this definitely isn't the 'something new' I was looking for.
Point number two: This came up in Amazon's search when I was specifically looking for romantic comedy. It's not romantic comedy.
Moving on...
I was looking for something new, tried this, and...nope. No substance to the romance, no character development, random side-plots (if you could even call them that) that didn't go anywhere, a totally cliched ex-girlfriend AND ex-husband (not the same person, lol), and a completely unbelievable and corny ending (which even the characters admitted--the corny part, at least. They seemed pretty convinced of its authenticity.) They didn't know each other at all, and yet we're supposed to believe that they can't live without each other by the end of the book? Yeah, nah.
And the hero's relationship with his father? I got whiplash from the way it turned on a dime, particularly at the end. Same for the main couple's relationship. Not that the changes were drastic, but they were still quick and constant, and at times unfathomable. And I really didn't buy the whole, "I'm a Christian, so I know I shouldn't lie, and I feel so bad, but what can I do?" line. It made the whole "God's important to me, so I hope He's important to you" conversation at the end feel really hypocritical and tacked on. I think I would have preferred the author leave out any references to the characters' faith altogether.
So no, this definitely isn't the 'something new' I was looking for.
September 4, 2019
4 Star review of Make Believe Fiancee (Make Believe #1) by Vivi Holt
Audio Review:
Both the author Vivi Holt and the narrator Amanda Stribling are relatively new to me.
Gwen Alder has moved to Billings, Montana to start over now that she is divorced and is working as a waitress at a roadside dinner, barely keeping her head afloat. Heath Montgomery is in desperate need of s date for his cousin’s wedding.
When fate puts Gwen and Heath together, Heath sees in Gwen the answer to his predicament . All she has to do is accompany Heath to the wedding as his date, which hopefully will get his parents off his back. A simple solution, Heath with pay Gwen to be his date and since she is broke, she accepts.
What will happen when the magic of the wedding weaves it’s spell? Complications will arise as feelings become involved. Will the issues that Gwen has trusting men destroy their chance of happiness? What will happen when their pretence is discovered?
I found the story to be delightful and heart warming and the narrator did a great job bringing the story to life.
This was a sweet and romantic story about taking a chance on love and happiness and was well written.
#AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Audio Review:
Both the author Vivi Holt and the narrator Amanda Stribling are relatively new to me.
Gwen Alder has moved to Billings, Montana to start over now that she is divorced and is working as a waitress at a roadside dinner, barely keeping her head afloat. Heath Montgomery is in desperate need of s date for his cousin’s wedding.
When fate puts Gwen and Heath together, Heath sees in Gwen the answer to his predicament . All she has to do is accompany Heath to the wedding as his date, which hopefully will get his parents off his back. A simple solution, Heath with pay Gwen to be his date and since she is broke, she accepts.
What will happen when the magic of the wedding weaves it’s spell? Complications will arise as feelings become involved. Will the issues that Gwen has trusting men destroy their chance of happiness? What will happen when their pretence is discovered?
I found the story to be delightful and heart warming and the narrator did a great job bringing the story to life.
This was a sweet and romantic story about taking a chance on love and happiness and was well written.
#AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Want to read
January 7, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/7/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Take one billionaire cowboy in need of a fiancée, add one divorced teacher with trust issues and mix in a fake engagement. What could possibly go wrong?
Gwen Alder is starting over — divorced and broke, she’s come to Billings, Montana for a new beginning. But waitressing in a roadside diner for the summer isn’t paying the bills, and she finds herself in over her head with no hope of catching up.
Heath Montgomery has it all — fame, fortune and a mega-watt smile, but one thing he doesn’t have is a date for his cousin’s wedding.
When the two of them cross paths, Heath has an idea — what if he paid her to be his date? No strings, no complications, just a simple business transaction — a way to finally win his father’s trust, and get his parents off his back about settling down once and for all.
She’s poor and plain. He’s wealthy and arrogant.
They didn’t want anything more than a simple arrangement. They never planned to fall in love. But sometimes cupid has a mind of his own.
Blurb:
Take one billionaire cowboy in need of a fiancée, add one divorced teacher with trust issues and mix in a fake engagement. What could possibly go wrong?
Gwen Alder is starting over — divorced and broke, she’s come to Billings, Montana for a new beginning. But waitressing in a roadside diner for the summer isn’t paying the bills, and she finds herself in over her head with no hope of catching up.
Heath Montgomery has it all — fame, fortune and a mega-watt smile, but one thing he doesn’t have is a date for his cousin’s wedding.
When the two of them cross paths, Heath has an idea — what if he paid her to be his date? No strings, no complications, just a simple business transaction — a way to finally win his father’s trust, and get his parents off his back about settling down once and for all.
She’s poor and plain. He’s wealthy and arrogant.
They didn’t want anything more than a simple arrangement. They never planned to fall in love. But sometimes cupid has a mind of his own.
October 11, 2019
2.5-3 stars. So this was a fast, not at all brain taxing simpleton shooting it straight romance. I’m not the type that gets too overly tired of a good thing and the pretend to win usually does it just fine for me. For me, this book just lacked some depth both character wise and relationship wise. It also lacked passion and I’m not talking about the intimate variety. I mean like passion and zest for life, passionate feelings about events happening, passion for ideas. Clean romances are nice but in all honesty just because your romance is clean doesn’t mean you need to leave out the passion. I like the characters I read about to have some really deep feelings and to be fired up about some things whether that is their work or their religion or whatever else is going on in their life even if it’s bad.
Our FMC starts out with a pretty bleak outlook but things are starting to look up only for the story to suggest that she’s going to get dragged back into her disastrous marriage. Along comes Heath to the rescue who is tired of his friends and family not taking him seriously all because he isn’t focused on marriage and kids. I had several issues with plot holes that didn’t quite clear up. For instance what happens to ED the disastrous ex husband trying to shake the FMC down constantly? And to the home wrecker chick who I can’t seem to remember her name? What were the consequences of their actions?
This book did have very mild Christian connotations and themes but these characters weren’t honestly passionate about their religion and there was no greater theme or meaning which was a tad disappointing to me. All in all it wasn’t a bad read just a little on the bland side for me.
Our FMC starts out with a pretty bleak outlook but things are starting to look up only for the story to suggest that she’s going to get dragged back into her disastrous marriage. Along comes Heath to the rescue who is tired of his friends and family not taking him seriously all because he isn’t focused on marriage and kids. I had several issues with plot holes that didn’t quite clear up. For instance what happens to ED the disastrous ex husband trying to shake the FMC down constantly? And to the home wrecker chick who I can’t seem to remember her name? What were the consequences of their actions?
This book did have very mild Christian connotations and themes but these characters weren’t honestly passionate about their religion and there was no greater theme or meaning which was a tad disappointing to me. All in all it wasn’t a bad read just a little on the bland side for me.
July 1, 2021
3.5 STARS
Gwen just got out of a divorce and is looking for a place to stay. Heath is needing a date to get his family off his back. When he offers to pay her to be his fake fiancé for his cousin's wedding, she says yes only if he can pay her first month's rent and write a recommendation letter.
The one thing they didn't count on is slowly falling for each other. Heath and Gwen start getting to know each other and are realizing that they have more in common.
Super cute and clean romance. Gwen and Heath had great chemistry and I loved seeing them together.
Gwen just got out of a divorce and is looking for a place to stay. Heath is needing a date to get his family off his back. When he offers to pay her to be his fake fiancé for his cousin's wedding, she says yes only if he can pay her first month's rent and write a recommendation letter.
The one thing they didn't count on is slowly falling for each other. Heath and Gwen start getting to know each other and are realizing that they have more in common.
Super cute and clean romance. Gwen and Heath had great chemistry and I loved seeing them together.
May 31, 2018
This is a cute and clean romance and it’s quick to read. I enjoyed it.
January 20, 2020
I felt like this was a pretty woman nock off. I really enjoyed pretty woman but this was suppose to be a christian romance. It felt like religion was mentioned as important a few times, but really it wasn't. Having plunging necklines, using people for money, paying people to create a illusion and lie are not really good qualities. Also he seemed to buy her whatever she needed to play her 'role', and she had no reservations. It would have helped if there was more character development.
February 6, 2024
Cute, a little Hallmark-y, but it was cute.
Think Pretty Woman, but meets a billionaire rancher, and she's a teacher/waitress.
Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
Think Pretty Woman, but meets a billionaire rancher, and she's a teacher/waitress.
Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
July 14, 2018
Because I'm not a multi-million, or billionaire, I enjoy living vicariously through stories that depicted the lifestyles they revel in.
How wonderful to be able to read a book that has similar values to my own and has the setting of the rich and famous! Although there aren't enough authors out there who are writing truly "clean" fiction, apparently I can count on Vivi Holt to do just that.
I related quite a bit with Gwen and the trials with overcoming things from your past. i know how great it is to have such a bright future you need to wear sunglasses to get through it.
On a steaminess level I would rate it a pleasant PG. This is a book I would share with my sisters, it read with my daughters!
How wonderful to be able to read a book that has similar values to my own and has the setting of the rich and famous! Although there aren't enough authors out there who are writing truly "clean" fiction, apparently I can count on Vivi Holt to do just that.
I related quite a bit with Gwen and the trials with overcoming things from your past. i know how great it is to have such a bright future you need to wear sunglasses to get through it.
On a steaminess level I would rate it a pleasant PG. This is a book I would share with my sisters, it read with my daughters!
September 29, 2019
If you are looking for a short, clean romance then this is probably for you. But there is no real character development or relationship growth. There are side stories added to the plot that were unnecessary and added nothing to story. I kept waiting for something big to happen or be revealed and when it finally did it was so underwhelming and the finale felt forced. It is a very short read and easy to get through but the hopping from perspective and time jumps that aren’t really explained make it a bit confusing. The two love interests aren’t interesting characters and you don’t see any actual growth or consistency in their personalities.
January 22, 2020
Make Believe Fiance' is a good start to the series I believe. The characters were enjoyable, the story was fun and even the supporting characters were entertaining. I've read the "have to be settled down to show you're mature enough to run a company" trope many times. This is the first that I've read it in clean romance form. Ms. Holt did a great job at conveying the emotions and feelings between the characters without losing the underlying mutual attraction. I really felt like the characters were made for one another and would make a great couple. It felt real. I love the Christian aspect to the story. It never felt contrived or thrown in just to fit the sub-genre of Christian romance.
Heath has no time for a relationship with all of the work he's been doing to get ready to one day run the family company. Once his Dad decides he can trust Heath and give up the reins Heath is in and he wants to be prepared to make his dad proud. Knowing all of that it makes Heath crazy that he disappoints his dad at every turn just because he hasn't settled down and gotten serious with a woman. And Heath has finally come to the conclusion that his father will never retire if Heath doesn't come up with a relationship to show he's on his way to stable and settled.
Gwen is feeling the crunch of finishing college, working part time jobs until she starts her career and trying to make ends meet. None of that is easy and it's getting to the point that Gwen is going to be homeless if she doesn't come up with something. That's why when she meets Heath while waitressing one night and he offers to pay first month's rent for her to get settled she decides she'll go for it and pretend to be his fiance' at his cousin's wedding. What she doesn't count on is falling for his family as much as she falls for him.
Such a sweet romance with a great family angle. Definitely recommend.
Heath has no time for a relationship with all of the work he's been doing to get ready to one day run the family company. Once his Dad decides he can trust Heath and give up the reins Heath is in and he wants to be prepared to make his dad proud. Knowing all of that it makes Heath crazy that he disappoints his dad at every turn just because he hasn't settled down and gotten serious with a woman. And Heath has finally come to the conclusion that his father will never retire if Heath doesn't come up with a relationship to show he's on his way to stable and settled.
Gwen is feeling the crunch of finishing college, working part time jobs until she starts her career and trying to make ends meet. None of that is easy and it's getting to the point that Gwen is going to be homeless if she doesn't come up with something. That's why when she meets Heath while waitressing one night and he offers to pay first month's rent for her to get settled she decides she'll go for it and pretend to be his fiance' at his cousin's wedding. What she doesn't count on is falling for his family as much as she falls for him.
Such a sweet romance with a great family angle. Definitely recommend.
September 13, 2018
If you are looking for a light-hearted, clean romance, this is a wonderful book! Nothing really surprising in the story, but well-written and very enjoyable!
Gwen is working as a waitress in a diner until she can start her teaching job in Billings, Montana. Her ex-husband, who is a real piece of work, just won't leave her alone. After her messy divorce and his demands for more and more money, Gwen finds herself on the street without a place to live.
Heath Montgomery is a billionaire cowboy who meets Gwen when he is eating in the diner with his friends. When Heath decides that he has to get a fiance' and fast, he approaches Gwen with a business proposition.
Of course, these two fight their attraction for each other and play the fake fiance' game, but true romantics know that things will change! Heath and Gwen's faith also play a part in the story and I'm sure that God had a hand in their romance all along!
This is a well-written story and the narrator does a great job also. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Gwen and Heath and following their story. Heath's grandmother, Nana, was a wonderful character and I would love to know more about her!
I was given the opportunity to listen to this audiobook by the author and chose to review it.
Gwen is working as a waitress in a diner until she can start her teaching job in Billings, Montana. Her ex-husband, who is a real piece of work, just won't leave her alone. After her messy divorce and his demands for more and more money, Gwen finds herself on the street without a place to live.
Heath Montgomery is a billionaire cowboy who meets Gwen when he is eating in the diner with his friends. When Heath decides that he has to get a fiance' and fast, he approaches Gwen with a business proposition.
Of course, these two fight their attraction for each other and play the fake fiance' game, but true romantics know that things will change! Heath and Gwen's faith also play a part in the story and I'm sure that God had a hand in their romance all along!
This is a well-written story and the narrator does a great job also. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Gwen and Heath and following their story. Heath's grandmother, Nana, was a wonderful character and I would love to know more about her!
I was given the opportunity to listen to this audiobook by the author and chose to review it.
January 15, 2019
Confused and A Little Disappointed
I typically enjoy novels by Vivi Holt for they are full of clean romance who keep Christ at their center; however, this time the novel left me with more confusion and disappointment than any of the ones before. The overall storyline was excellent, with many different twists and turns to keep readers entertained and interested, but there were so many different items that were thrown in that could have been left out for they took away from the plot. Gwen's husband, what ever happened to him? Chantelle, why did we see her thoughts once then she was gone? The theft within the company, why did we find out it was a married company and absolutely nothing else about them? Heath's sister, she had so many questions and then just disappeared from the story all together? There were so many questions and plot twists thrown in, the novel could have been great if only they would have been answered and expanded upon to bring a complete picture of everything and everyone. Overall, it was a good read but disappointing for it could have been great!
I typically enjoy novels by Vivi Holt for they are full of clean romance who keep Christ at their center; however, this time the novel left me with more confusion and disappointment than any of the ones before. The overall storyline was excellent, with many different twists and turns to keep readers entertained and interested, but there were so many different items that were thrown in that could have been left out for they took away from the plot. Gwen's husband, what ever happened to him? Chantelle, why did we see her thoughts once then she was gone? The theft within the company, why did we find out it was a married company and absolutely nothing else about them? Heath's sister, she had so many questions and then just disappeared from the story all together? There were so many questions and plot twists thrown in, the novel could have been great if only they would have been answered and expanded upon to bring a complete picture of everything and everyone. Overall, it was a good read but disappointing for it could have been great!
September 26, 2019
First off, let me say the covers for these books that are on Kindle are SO much better than the ones that load for the books on Goodreads. If I saw these covers, I might cringe a little bit, but the ones that show on Kindle are much sweeter. I don't know if these are new or old or what, but I wish they matched what was on Kindle. Anyway, moving on to the actual content of the book. I adored this story so much. Vivi Holt got me hooked with this whole "fake relationship which eventually becomes real" troupe when I read her Email-Order series (also great, also check it out!). Sure, it's predictable. You know right away who's going to be together in the end. Just identify the leading man and leading woman and VIOLA! BUT that's what makes me love it! I sometimes enjoy books that are unpredictable and I can read ones that don't have happy endings, but not all the time. That's where books like these come in, to supplement the sad or unpredictable books, in a sweet, romantic way. I really recommended it and read the whole series.
February 19, 2020
To gain the CEO spot in his company, Heath propositions a waitress to be his fiancee for the weekend.
While this could be an interesting story, too much was left out of didn't make sense. Heath and the woman act engaged, but don't discuss not wanting to end it. They come up with some reasons to see each other again, but the timing of the events in the story is off. Once they decide to give things a try for real, there's not much substance between them deciding to spend forever together.
Heart's "church thing" seems like an after thought. And, it's inserted at the weirdest times.
I finished the book, but I will not be looking for the others in this series.
While this could be an interesting story, too much was left out of didn't make sense. Heath and the woman act engaged, but don't discuss not wanting to end it. They come up with some reasons to see each other again, but the timing of the events in the story is off. Once they decide to give things a try for real, there's not much substance between them deciding to spend forever together.
Heart's "church thing" seems like an after thought. And, it's inserted at the weirdest times.
I finished the book, but I will not be looking for the others in this series.
November 6, 2019
*Audiobook*
First time listening to this Author and Narrator. I can’t wait to listen to the rest of the series and also other books!
The narration was great, each character given a voice, and read with feeling.
Sweet story without steamy sex scenes, will also be a great listen for young adults.
🎧AOR
First time listening to this Author and Narrator. I can’t wait to listen to the rest of the series and also other books!
The narration was great, each character given a voice, and read with feeling.
Sweet story without steamy sex scenes, will also be a great listen for young adults.
🎧AOR
March 14, 2024
*I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher.*
This sounded like a cute, clean romance, and in some ways, it was. But I didn’t love it.
The story and characters felt quite superficial, like we never really got past the surface of anything or anyone. I knew things about the characters but didn’t feel like I knew the characters themselves. Heath (30) and Gwen (mid-20s, I think?) were fine for each other, but I think only felt any real chemistry between them once. In a real world, I’d think Gwen was a complete idiot for agreeing to go off for the weekend with a guy she didn’t know. Let’s be honest: She got lucky he wasn’t a psycho. And for someone who claimed to be such a devout Christian, Heath’s idea of lying to his family about his relationship was surprising. Don’t get me wrong, he seemed like a decent guy. But lying in order to attain the CEO position is just wrong.
Any serious trouble the they encountered was resolved quickly and easily without any real fallout. The lies, Gwen’s ex-husband, Chantelle, Nana’s health, etc. Every major problem that showed up disappeared without the characters truly struggling. It’s not that I like pain and suffering, but I do prefer life’s issues to be dealt with rather than magically resolved.
I struggled with the writing, as well. It was frequently cheesy and occasionally went beyond that. Gwen’s use of “pumpkin” as a nickname for Heath grated on my nerves. Much of the dialogue felt contrived rather than flowing naturally. It’s just not my thing.
But hey, just because I didn’t love it doesn’t mean someone else’s won’t.
How it ends:
Note: I don’t recall anything bad.
This sounded like a cute, clean romance, and in some ways, it was. But I didn’t love it.
The story and characters felt quite superficial, like we never really got past the surface of anything or anyone. I knew things about the characters but didn’t feel like I knew the characters themselves. Heath (30) and Gwen (mid-20s, I think?) were fine for each other, but I think only felt any real chemistry between them once. In a real world, I’d think Gwen was a complete idiot for agreeing to go off for the weekend with a guy she didn’t know. Let’s be honest: She got lucky he wasn’t a psycho. And for someone who claimed to be such a devout Christian, Heath’s idea of lying to his family about his relationship was surprising. Don’t get me wrong, he seemed like a decent guy. But lying in order to attain the CEO position is just wrong.
Any serious trouble the they encountered was resolved quickly and easily without any real fallout. The lies, Gwen’s ex-husband, Chantelle, Nana’s health, etc. Every major problem that showed up disappeared without the characters truly struggling. It’s not that I like pain and suffering, but I do prefer life’s issues to be dealt with rather than magically resolved.
I struggled with the writing, as well. It was frequently cheesy and occasionally went beyond that. Gwen’s use of “pumpkin” as a nickname for Heath grated on my nerves. Much of the dialogue felt contrived rather than flowing naturally. It’s just not my thing.
But hey, just because I didn’t love it doesn’t mean someone else’s won’t.
How it ends:
Note: I don’t recall anything bad.
January 3, 2019
Make-Believe Fiance: Make-Believe Series is by Vivi Holt. This is a cute book about make-believe love. It is also about starting over and clearing up relationships. The book is short and very easy to read. It is pure escapism at its best. The book is clearly written with few or no mistakes, at least none that jump out at you.
Gwen Alder is starting over in Billings, Montana. She had come to Montana with her husband but is now in the final stages of divorce. Ed managed to sway the divorce his way so she got little out of it. However, she was happy to be free of Ed or would be if he would stop calling her lawyer for different things. Now she was broke and alone but getting along with her summer job at the diner. In a couple of weeks, she would be presiding over her very own third grade class at the local school. She was really looking forward to starting school. However, first she has to find a place to stay as her landlord just ejected her from her apartment.
Heath Montgomery is the older son of the CEO of Montgomery Ranches and had spent a weekend gambling with his friends. This was a yearly tradition with a full weekend with no sleep followed by breakfast. This year, they chose the Diner. It was here that Heath met Gwen and was interested in her; but she ignored him. Later, when his Father started in on him growing up and taking responsibility and a wife before he would get the promotion to take his Father’s place in their business. His family liked Gwen so he decided to ask her to pretend to be his girlfriend to show his Father that he was settling down. However, when she was introduced at the family reception for his cousin who was getting married as his fiancé things became complicated.
Acting as Heath’s fiancé seemed easy enough for Gwen. It provided her rent money and a reference. However, she didn’t realize that he was a billionaire and that she now had a jealous ex-girlfriend to contend with. Heath’s family takes Gwen in as if she had known them all her life making her feel accepted and wanted. What will she do when they break up? How will the family accept it?
Gwen Alder is starting over in Billings, Montana. She had come to Montana with her husband but is now in the final stages of divorce. Ed managed to sway the divorce his way so she got little out of it. However, she was happy to be free of Ed or would be if he would stop calling her lawyer for different things. Now she was broke and alone but getting along with her summer job at the diner. In a couple of weeks, she would be presiding over her very own third grade class at the local school. She was really looking forward to starting school. However, first she has to find a place to stay as her landlord just ejected her from her apartment.
Heath Montgomery is the older son of the CEO of Montgomery Ranches and had spent a weekend gambling with his friends. This was a yearly tradition with a full weekend with no sleep followed by breakfast. This year, they chose the Diner. It was here that Heath met Gwen and was interested in her; but she ignored him. Later, when his Father started in on him growing up and taking responsibility and a wife before he would get the promotion to take his Father’s place in their business. His family liked Gwen so he decided to ask her to pretend to be his girlfriend to show his Father that he was settling down. However, when she was introduced at the family reception for his cousin who was getting married as his fiancé things became complicated.
Acting as Heath’s fiancé seemed easy enough for Gwen. It provided her rent money and a reference. However, she didn’t realize that he was a billionaire and that she now had a jealous ex-girlfriend to contend with. Heath’s family takes Gwen in as if she had known them all her life making her feel accepted and wanted. What will she do when they break up? How will the family accept it?
January 4, 2024
This is the first book I've read from this author, and it was an okay read. I honestly thought I would love it more. Heath and Gwen, the main characters were okay but there was nothing about them that I truly loved or anything that made them memorable characters. There were parts of the story that I liked and disliked. I hated that Heath's father came off as basing his son's future on whether or not his son was in a committed relationship instead of passing on the company because of Heath's work ethic. There was a scene between Heath and his father, when his dad said that he was head of the company so long that he was nervous about letting the company go but his parents made such a huge fuss about him being single that there was really no merit to what his father said, at that point it was hard to believe. There was a little drama with Heath and Gwen's exes, but I thought that especially when it came to Chantelle that she had too much involvement with Heath's parents and that Heath should have put both Chantelle and his parents in their place when it came to her. The pace of the story was slower than what I was expecting, and it made the story drag. However, the ending of the story seemed to happen quickly as the story ended at 87% on my kindle. With that being said, there were parts of this story that made me smile. This story wasn't what I thought it would be, and although it wasn't a fantastic or terrible read for me, I know that this really isn't the story for me. I would however recommend that readers give the story a try to figure out if this is the type of story for you. Just because it wasn't for me doesn't mean that this won't be the perfect story for others.
June 21, 2019
Gwen💘Heath! Sweet Romance & Great Audible Listen🎧 4.5 Stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Make-Believe Fiancé
By: Vivi Holt
Narrated by: Amanda Stribling
Series: Make-Believe, Book 1
I enjoyed this cute and sweet story, it is well written and well told. The storylines and characters are interesting and well developed. I really liked Gwen, she has had it tough, faced with financial hardships after a divorce. She sets off to start a new life for herself, moves to Billings, Montana where she will be a teacher. She took a job waitressing at the diner to make ends meet. This is where she meets Heath Montgomery. He took a liking to Gwen and when he heard of her financial woes he offered her a proposition, to be a date for his cousins wedding and to act has his fiance. All goes well and according to plan until it doesn’t. I enjoyed how their story played out, how well they got along and how make believe turned real. I recommend this book there is never a dull moment, there is plenty of drama, some meddling family members and bitter exes as well as sweet romance. Vivi Holt thank you for this great story.
I listened to the Audible edition, Amanda Stripling is a wonderful narrator and voice performer. She brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality. She projects the emotions of the characters in to her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
Thank you 🎧@AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Make-Believe Fiancé
By: Vivi Holt
Narrated by: Amanda Stribling
Series: Make-Believe, Book 1
I enjoyed this cute and sweet story, it is well written and well told. The storylines and characters are interesting and well developed. I really liked Gwen, she has had it tough, faced with financial hardships after a divorce. She sets off to start a new life for herself, moves to Billings, Montana where she will be a teacher. She took a job waitressing at the diner to make ends meet. This is where she meets Heath Montgomery. He took a liking to Gwen and when he heard of her financial woes he offered her a proposition, to be a date for his cousins wedding and to act has his fiance. All goes well and according to plan until it doesn’t. I enjoyed how their story played out, how well they got along and how make believe turned real. I recommend this book there is never a dull moment, there is plenty of drama, some meddling family members and bitter exes as well as sweet romance. Vivi Holt thank you for this great story.
I listened to the Audible edition, Amanda Stripling is a wonderful narrator and voice performer. She brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice and personality. She projects the emotions of the characters in to her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen🎧
Thank you 🎧@AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsessionReviewer
October 12, 2018
4 stars
A adorably fun contemporary romance
I liked this audiobook very much. It is a really good example of the fake relationship trope. The story was bubbly, sweet, and romantic. It is a “clean” romance (no sex, just kissing). The absence of sex and lustful thoughts was not quite believable, especially since Gwen is not a virgin (she is divorced) and Graham is a billionaire. They are both Christian, but mentions of their religion and faith were blessedly minimal for me (I'm not religious). I loved the dress shopping and how Gwen explicitly referenced the movie “Pretty Woman”. I enjoyed the gaggle of Graham’s vivacious and distinctive family members. Graham’s and Gwen's exes' efforts to bother the couple added an interesting tension to the plot. The ending was perfectly wonderful, but I want more glimpses into Graham and Gwen’s life together in future books. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a light, fluffy, and clean contemporary romance. This is especially good for anyone who wants a good-hearted billionaire in a PG-rated type of audiobook.
The narrator was pretty good. She had a delightfully upbeat tone that the novel required. She was decent at men's voices but could be better. She is very good at believable and identifiable characters' voices for women of all ages. The pacing was good, as well.
I received a free advanced reading copy from the author, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
A adorably fun contemporary romance
I liked this audiobook very much. It is a really good example of the fake relationship trope. The story was bubbly, sweet, and romantic. It is a “clean” romance (no sex, just kissing). The absence of sex and lustful thoughts was not quite believable, especially since Gwen is not a virgin (she is divorced) and Graham is a billionaire. They are both Christian, but mentions of their religion and faith were blessedly minimal for me (I'm not religious). I loved the dress shopping and how Gwen explicitly referenced the movie “Pretty Woman”. I enjoyed the gaggle of Graham’s vivacious and distinctive family members. Graham’s and Gwen's exes' efforts to bother the couple added an interesting tension to the plot. The ending was perfectly wonderful, but I want more glimpses into Graham and Gwen’s life together in future books. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a light, fluffy, and clean contemporary romance. This is especially good for anyone who wants a good-hearted billionaire in a PG-rated type of audiobook.
The narrator was pretty good. She had a delightfully upbeat tone that the novel required. She was decent at men's voices but could be better. She is very good at believable and identifiable characters' voices for women of all ages. The pacing was good, as well.
I received a free advanced reading copy from the author, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
November 7, 2019
I enjoyed the first book in this series enough that I decided to take a chance on the second one. I still liked the setting, the unique character personalities, and the plot. What I didn't like was how the author once again added in the 'we can't be friends if we're going to be in love' angle. Super disappointed in that and since it seems to be a running theme, I probably won't pick up another of her books. I also had a problem with the general behavior of the hero during the hurricane. It made me wonder if this author has been through a hurricane herself, or if she bothered to check the protocol. What I can believe more easily is that this author is a creative soul who has a heart for our four-legged friends. It's admirable, but not believable for a father of two young daughters who feels terrible about the fact his daughters no longer have a mother and who also has an excellent logical mind, to risk his own life in a hurricane to save a wayward pet. Again, admirable, but not believable.
I loved the struggle between the characters and the decisions they had to make up to a certain point but I felt like it went on too long. I loved how the ex was finally told goodbye but again felt like that dragged on too long.
Overall, this was a quick, clean romance novel with a Christian undertone. If you enjoy those kinds of books and feel my personal issues with this story wouldn't hinder your own enjoyment, then by all means, give this book a try.
I loved the struggle between the characters and the decisions they had to make up to a certain point but I felt like it went on too long. I loved how the ex was finally told goodbye but again felt like that dragged on too long.
Overall, this was a quick, clean romance novel with a Christian undertone. If you enjoy those kinds of books and feel my personal issues with this story wouldn't hinder your own enjoyment, then by all means, give this book a try.
September 7, 2018
Gwen has recently relocated to Billings, MT after a messy divorce and is flat broke...as in not enough money to rent a room or anything. Yet, her pathetic excuse of an ex husband is still hounding her for alimony! Although Gwen is a school teacher, she has to waitress for the summer until she starts her new teaching position. Heath and friends have stopped in at the diner in which Gwen works and he is drawn to her, but he's rich and famous and is wary of gold diggers...his ex gf is a prime example. However, his parents keep bugging him about settling down, so when Heath needs a date for his cousin's wedding, the obvious choice is to pay the quiet, plain waitress to be his date. A business transaction without complications...but is anything ever that simple? Things start to backfire when Heath's family approves of his choice and he starts to have feelings for Gwen. Will there be an HEA for this duo or will the deception be the death of the relationship? Let's not forget Gwen's ex husband and Heath's ex girlfriend are around to add fuel to the fire. This is a quick read that is engaging...even if you periodically want to knock some sense into the H and h! This new-to-me narrator did an awesome job in portraying the many characters. Overall a great read/listen.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 11, 2018
What happens when life is not going according to plan? You agree to pose as someone's fake fiance! Gwen is a waitress who has caught the eye of a Heath when she is serving him. She is coming off of a difficult divorce, found herself in financial straights and when her offers to pay her to be his date to a wedding, she takes it. Little does she know what she is getting herself into. This fun adventure takes these two unsuspecting people through a multitude of situations. Family at it's best, Heath and Gwen dig their make believe relationship deeper and deeper into the lie until it's so deep they have to come clean. But is this what they want? I enjoyed their story. It's refreshing to have Heath, a billionaire see the worth of the woman Gwen is and how she can complete him. And I love how Gwen has no idea who he is, so money is not her motive.Vivi Holt has written characters you will love and others you will love to hate. Bring in Heath grandmother who is so sweet and Gwen's ex-husband who is just horrible and it makes for a great listen! You will find yourself right there with this couple rooting for their happy ending.
This is my first narration by Amanda Stribling. I found her voice pleasing to the ear. At times she was a little hesitant, but the flow for the most part was good and her voices between characters easily distinguishable. I hope to hear more from her.
This is my first narration by Amanda Stribling. I found her voice pleasing to the ear. At times she was a little hesitant, but the flow for the most part was good and her voices between characters easily distinguishable. I hope to hear more from her.
September 15, 2020
Not quite my cup of tea
3 star rating.
The storyline wasn't bad. I rather liked it. My reasons for a lower rating is due to the rush at the end of the book and lack of character building. The book also ended at about 90% leaving the remainder for sneak peeks into the next book. That's alot of pages for a peek into the next book.
When I read a book, it shouldn't end until at least 97% in. I understand the author promoting their other books but come on...the authors should provide that info in the beginning of the book. Basically a blurb that says "book stops at 90%, allowing for some author info" or something along that line.
The character themselves, I liked. There did need to be more depth to the characters romance though. And the female villain had no ending. I'm sorry but from what that person did, there should be some recourse, not just have them disappear and not mentioned again.
Not sure if I'm going to continue the series. I tried this first book and it didn't "wow" me so moving forward with the authors work would be hard for me, especially if this is how the author writes.
3 star rating.
The storyline wasn't bad. I rather liked it. My reasons for a lower rating is due to the rush at the end of the book and lack of character building. The book also ended at about 90% leaving the remainder for sneak peeks into the next book. That's alot of pages for a peek into the next book.
When I read a book, it shouldn't end until at least 97% in. I understand the author promoting their other books but come on...the authors should provide that info in the beginning of the book. Basically a blurb that says "book stops at 90%, allowing for some author info" or something along that line.
The character themselves, I liked. There did need to be more depth to the characters romance though. And the female villain had no ending. I'm sorry but from what that person did, there should be some recourse, not just have them disappear and not mentioned again.
Not sure if I'm going to continue the series. I tried this first book and it didn't "wow" me so moving forward with the authors work would be hard for me, especially if this is how the author writes.
September 21, 2018
Gwen and Heath
After a weekend playing cards with his brother and a couple of friends, and getting no sleep Heath and the guys stop in at a diner for breakfast. The waitress who takes their order looks tired and but Heath still thinks she’s pretty.
Gwen has been divorced for six months but her ex has taken her to the cleaners. She has been hired as the new 3rd grade teacher but it’ll be two weeks before that job starts. She has a part-time job at a diner but she doesn’t make much money there. When four scruffy looking men come in she takes their order. She notices that one of them is quite handsome but she has no use for men.
When Heath slips up and tells his parents that he has a fiancée they expect him to bring her to a family wedding. What’s he gonna do? He recalls the waitress at the diner and offers to pay her to pretend to be his fiancée and he’ll pay her first month’s rent and she won’t have to pay for a thing the entire weekend.
With something this good you know the bubble is gonna burst.
After a weekend playing cards with his brother and a couple of friends, and getting no sleep Heath and the guys stop in at a diner for breakfast. The waitress who takes their order looks tired and but Heath still thinks she’s pretty.
Gwen has been divorced for six months but her ex has taken her to the cleaners. She has been hired as the new 3rd grade teacher but it’ll be two weeks before that job starts. She has a part-time job at a diner but she doesn’t make much money there. When four scruffy looking men come in she takes their order. She notices that one of them is quite handsome but she has no use for men.
When Heath slips up and tells his parents that he has a fiancée they expect him to bring her to a family wedding. What’s he gonna do? He recalls the waitress at the diner and offers to pay her to pretend to be his fiancée and he’ll pay her first month’s rent and she won’t have to pay for a thing the entire weekend.
With something this good you know the bubble is gonna burst.
July 14, 2024
"Make Believe Fiancé" by Vivi Holt is a delightful fake-dating romance that will have you grinning from ear to ear. Gwen, fresh out of a divorce and in need of money for rent, meets Heath, a guy desperate for a fake date to appease his family. What starts as a simple arrangement quickly turns into something much more as Gwen and Heath find themselves drawn to each other in unexpected ways.
The chemistry between Gwen and Heath is off the charts, and their journey from fake engagement to real love is a joy to witness. From their witty banter to their heartwarming moments of connection, every page of this book is filled with charm and humor. I couldn't help but root for this lovable pair as they navigated the ups and downs of their newfound relationship.
If you're in the mood for a feel-good romance with plenty of heart, "Make Believe Fiancé" is the perfect read for you. Trust me, you won't be able to resist falling for Gwen and Heath's enchanting love story!
Thank you Vivi Holt and NetGalley for the ebook arc. All opinions expressed are my own.
The chemistry between Gwen and Heath is off the charts, and their journey from fake engagement to real love is a joy to witness. From their witty banter to their heartwarming moments of connection, every page of this book is filled with charm and humor. I couldn't help but root for this lovable pair as they navigated the ups and downs of their newfound relationship.
If you're in the mood for a feel-good romance with plenty of heart, "Make Believe Fiancé" is the perfect read for you. Trust me, you won't be able to resist falling for Gwen and Heath's enchanting love story!
Thank you Vivi Holt and NetGalley for the ebook arc. All opinions expressed are my own.
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