What do you think?
Rate this book
The Crowne Brothers #4
Fake Crowne
Colton Crowne is famous for two things: being one of the music industry’s most talented producers and partying away his massive inheritance.
I’m a singer with stage fright who’s famous for…well…nothing yet. And I promised my family if I didn’t make it big by the end of this year, I’d go back to med school.
My agent thinks Colton and I would be a great team both in the studio, and outside of it—especially if label executives think we’re dating.
The rules? We can kiss in public, but not in private.
We can act like we’re doing the deed, as long as we’re not.
And as far as having actual feelings for each other goes…that’s obviously out of the question.
But after so many late nights in the studio and a bunch of stolen kisses, I start to see beyond his party boy facade to something real underneath. And he believes in me–with his coaching and encouragement, I’m finally overcoming my anxiety and giving the best performances of my life.
If only time wasn’t running out so fast.
Then Colton has an idea to keep us together. It’s terrible, but it’s the only way.
How can I let him destroy everything he’s worked for just to make me happy?
I’m a singer with stage fright who’s famous for…well…nothing yet. And I promised my family if I didn’t make it big by the end of this year, I’d go back to med school.
My agent thinks Colton and I would be a great team both in the studio, and outside of it—especially if label executives think we’re dating.
The rules? We can kiss in public, but not in private.
We can act like we’re doing the deed, as long as we’re not.
And as far as having actual feelings for each other goes…that’s obviously out of the question.
But after so many late nights in the studio and a bunch of stolen kisses, I start to see beyond his party boy facade to something real underneath. And he believes in me–with his coaching and encouragement, I’m finally overcoming my anxiety and giving the best performances of my life.
If only time wasn’t running out so fast.
Then Colton has an idea to keep us together. It’s terrible, but it’s the only way.
How can I let him destroy everything he’s worked for just to make me happy?
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2023
302 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
C.D. Reiss
112 books9,641 followersCD Reiss is a New York Times bestselling author. She still has to chop wood and carry water, which was buried in the fine print. Her lawyer is working it out with God but in the meantime, if you call and she doesn't pick up she's at the well hauling buckets.
Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels.
She's frequently referred to as the Shakespeare of Smut which is flattering but hasn't ever gotten her out of chopping a single cord of wood.
If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine.
***NONE OF MY BOOKS ARE SAFE***
Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels.
She's frequently referred to as the Shakespeare of Smut which is flattering but hasn't ever gotten her out of chopping a single cord of wood.
If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine.
***NONE OF MY BOOKS ARE SAFE***
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
July 12, 2023
When the youngest Crowne brother Colton takes his inheritance early and loses it and have to return home broke and broken, his brother Liam finds him a project that is too good to resist.
What do you when someone is smart and Talanted? You throw her in front a crowd and ask her to sing... the only problem is she has stage fright major anxiety so your agent pairs her up with the one person he believes can help her, Colton Crowne the guy with a big heart but also broken. Will she sing or have to do as she promise her parents enroll in med school?
What do you when someone is smart and Talanted? You throw her in front a crowd and ask her to sing... the only problem is she has stage fright major anxiety so your agent pairs her up with the one person he believes can help her, Colton Crowne the guy with a big heart but also broken. Will she sing or have to do as she promise her parents enroll in med school?
January 17, 2023
I love this series. Colton and Skye are doing the fake dating thing while trying to help her make it in the music industry. And man, there are so many layers to Colton. Like, he's a good guy and a good friend but a little wild and loose, super creative and super smart. And self deprecating. Skye is talented but anxious, and kind of brave. It takes guts to stand up to your parents and move across the country to achieve your dreams, to even try. And to take a chance on someone.
I like how they grew from fake to benefits pretty fast, then progressed to love. I also found it interesting to see a story where I love you isn't the magic bandaid. They had the passion, and had to figure out if things could work out when she was probably leaving anyways. I love these two, and Colton's mom's tingle, and the whole vibe of the book.
I like how they grew from fake to benefits pretty fast, then progressed to love. I also found it interesting to see a story where I love you isn't the magic bandaid. They had the passion, and had to figure out if things could work out when she was probably leaving anyways. I love these two, and Colton's mom's tingle, and the whole vibe of the book.
January 19, 2023
Colton Crowne is legit a sexy beast who can bring a girl to orgasm with a flick of his little finger. I know, I was that girl (I wish). I don’t need him an a tux or a suit, gimme him in his jeans, his ball cap and his converse and his relaxed easy way and I’m smitten as a kitten.
In the other Crowne books, Colton was a bit elusive, a bit of a free spirit. Untamed and wild, happy to go his own way and live free. He is all that but he’s also a Crowne and his fierce love for his family is clear and present. He’s a brainiac and talented. Could he be any more perfect?
Skye Phillips is the gorgeous, talented singer that Colton takes under his wing, but she has crippling anxiety that inhibits her from performing and showcasing her talent.
Oh how I love it when a character gets a perfect nickname. Skittles, is up there with the best of them. I also think I might need to start a collection of Pez dispensers.
CD Reiss marvelled me with her words yet again. I think I fell in love with Skye as quickly as Colton did and vice versa.
“Under a black leather jacket, he’s wearing Levi’s that are perfectly worn in all the right places and a tight black T-shirt with a neck that’s stretched out past his collarbones. He looks like a Jet on his way to a rumble with the Sharks but who stopped by to do a little tough guy song and dance first.” - This right here, made me fall completely in love with him!
“Take the city. Take the music. The silicone injections. The spinning lights. The marine layer, el niño, the flash floods, the dry heat and the blue skies and golden sunshine all along the way. Delete the stupid earthquake app off my fucking phone. Take the mountains, the valleys…all of them. Take the coke-snorting Hugo Boss executives, the fake dreams, the soul sucking jobs. Take the 101, the 5, the 110, and God please, please take the 405. Take the fucking stars. Just give me the Skye they hang in.” Holy shit woman, take a bow, take my money, I’m not worthy.
So perfect. I just needed more because I wasn’t ready to let them go.
In the other Crowne books, Colton was a bit elusive, a bit of a free spirit. Untamed and wild, happy to go his own way and live free. He is all that but he’s also a Crowne and his fierce love for his family is clear and present. He’s a brainiac and talented. Could he be any more perfect?
Skye Phillips is the gorgeous, talented singer that Colton takes under his wing, but she has crippling anxiety that inhibits her from performing and showcasing her talent.
Oh how I love it when a character gets a perfect nickname. Skittles, is up there with the best of them. I also think I might need to start a collection of Pez dispensers.
CD Reiss marvelled me with her words yet again. I think I fell in love with Skye as quickly as Colton did and vice versa.
“Under a black leather jacket, he’s wearing Levi’s that are perfectly worn in all the right places and a tight black T-shirt with a neck that’s stretched out past his collarbones. He looks like a Jet on his way to a rumble with the Sharks but who stopped by to do a little tough guy song and dance first.” - This right here, made me fall completely in love with him!
“Take the city. Take the music. The silicone injections. The spinning lights. The marine layer, el niño, the flash floods, the dry heat and the blue skies and golden sunshine all along the way. Delete the stupid earthquake app off my fucking phone. Take the mountains, the valleys…all of them. Take the coke-snorting Hugo Boss executives, the fake dreams, the soul sucking jobs. Take the 101, the 5, the 110, and God please, please take the 405. Take the fucking stars. Just give me the Skye they hang in.” Holy shit woman, take a bow, take my money, I’m not worthy.
So perfect. I just needed more because I wasn’t ready to let them go.
January 31, 2023
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
FAKE CROWNE // @cdreiss
Fake Crowne by C.D. Reiss is book four in the Crowne Brothers Series, with each book introducing us to another Crowne brother and how they find the love of their lives.
Colton Crowne (smoldering, hot and never bothered) chased his dream to be a successful music producer but after falling in love with the talent he was producing, and it ending badly, he partied his money, his career and his reputation.
Colton ends up back home, broke and living in his older brothers garage which he turned into a music studio but isn't doing anything with. He tried to go back working for his family business but quit and now does mostly couch surfing in a depressed stage after losing a his producing rights to his former lovers billboards hits.
His brother Liam, the talent agent, forces him into meeting Skye Phillips who is a very talented singer but lacking in self belief and suffering severe stage fright. Skye first meets Colton when he catches her belting out a song in her car, at a stop light. Liam’s struck by her talent and after a second encounter at an industry event, that ends up in a clumsy tabloid picture, demoing them a couple and ow they have to keep up the fake relationship to help Skye's careere.
He starts producing her and also starts catching feelings. Both unsure of how the other one feels it turns into a mess of passionate sex on the couch after recording in the studio and a series of misunderstandings before they finally have their HEA
“Under a black leather jacket, he’s wearing Levi’s that are perfectly worn in all the right places and a tight black T-shirt with a neck that’s stretched out past his collarbones. He looks like a Jet on his way to a rumble with the Sharks but who stopped by to do a little tough guy song and dance first.” - This right here, made me fall completely in love with him!
FAKE CROWNE // @cdreiss
Fake Crowne by C.D. Reiss is book four in the Crowne Brothers Series, with each book introducing us to another Crowne brother and how they find the love of their lives.
Colton Crowne (smoldering, hot and never bothered) chased his dream to be a successful music producer but after falling in love with the talent he was producing, and it ending badly, he partied his money, his career and his reputation.
Colton ends up back home, broke and living in his older brothers garage which he turned into a music studio but isn't doing anything with. He tried to go back working for his family business but quit and now does mostly couch surfing in a depressed stage after losing a his producing rights to his former lovers billboards hits.
His brother Liam, the talent agent, forces him into meeting Skye Phillips who is a very talented singer but lacking in self belief and suffering severe stage fright. Skye first meets Colton when he catches her belting out a song in her car, at a stop light. Liam’s struck by her talent and after a second encounter at an industry event, that ends up in a clumsy tabloid picture, demoing them a couple and ow they have to keep up the fake relationship to help Skye's careere.
He starts producing her and also starts catching feelings. Both unsure of how the other one feels it turns into a mess of passionate sex on the couch after recording in the studio and a series of misunderstandings before they finally have their HEA
“Under a black leather jacket, he’s wearing Levi’s that are perfectly worn in all the right places and a tight black T-shirt with a neck that’s stretched out past his collarbones. He looks like a Jet on his way to a rumble with the Sharks but who stopped by to do a little tough guy song and dance first.” - This right here, made me fall completely in love with him!
January 30, 2023
I love Colton.
Is he dark and dangerous?
Nope. Not at all. He's just conflicted and fucked up like the rest of us, and that's why he's absolutely perfect for the mood I'm in now.
I hope you love him as much as I do.
Is he dark and dangerous?
Nope. Not at all. He's just conflicted and fucked up like the rest of us, and that's why he's absolutely perfect for the mood I'm in now.
I hope you love him as much as I do.
February 2, 2023
So thrilled to be back in the City of Angels and into the world of those super sexy Crowne brothers, this time youngest son Colton gets his own story. He's a bit of a black sheep and is convinced he's the family failure. He was a big deal in the music industry- had a dream career as a sought after producer, until his heart and emotions got the best of him. Whoever said never mix business with pleasure was absolutely right. Hard lesson learned, he's never going down that road again. Colton is basically broke and has no choice but to head home to lick his wounds. He acts like none of this matters- nonchalance becomes his shield and partying hard is his cover story. Despite all this drama, his wonderful, irreverent family support and love him anyway. If you've read the other books in this series- you've already fallen head over heels for these crazy, interfering Crownes.
Colton's brothers have a plan to get him back in the game, even though their idea of 'help' might drive him crazy. Brother Liam is managing a new client and wants Colton to meet her. Maybe they can work together and help each other get a new start. This is how he ends up in the same space with Skye- a beautiful girl with the voice of an angel. She quietly drops into his life and all bets are off.
Skye Phillips has allowed her demanding family to rule her life for far too long, while leaving her own happiness in the dust. She agrees to their terms, but has her own dream in mind and time is running out to make it happen. Skye has major talent but lets anxiety and fear rule her life. A career as a professional singer and stage fright are not a winning combination and her confidence is at an all time low. Maybe her parents are right- she should just give up and go home.
Under the right guidance, Skye could be a rising star, if only she didn't freeze in front of a crowd. She's an unknown that's a risk to take a chance on, but Colton can sees her raw talent and potential. He feels an immediate pull but needs to resist the overwhelming attraction he feels in Skye's presence. How will he keep these undeniable feelings locked down long enough to show this woman what she's capable of and what he can do for her career?
The powers that be hatch a far fetched plan- a staged romance that will benefit them both- get some quick publicity trending and get out- a temporary relationship with no strings attached. This whole thing might seem impossible to pull off, but the idea of faking a relationship for the sake of the greater good never felt so real or so right! The intense give and take, the ups and downs as they explored each others needs and desires was hot AF. The plot is twisting, sparks are flying high and the steamy tension continues! Those rules they agreed on? They went flying right out the window.
I loved getting to know Colton's softer, protective side and that heart of gold he hides under his party boy persona was absolutely irresistible. Skye is such a sweetheart with that amazing voice, but lets worry steal away her happiness. Watching her emerge from her shell and live for herself was uplifting and powerful to see. Will these two flawed but not so different people let their fears go and find love after all? Well, Momma Crowne and her tingles are never wrong! What a beautiful ending to Colton and Skye's emotional story.
When I discovered that CD Reiss was writing this long awaited next book in her Crowne series, I almost lost my mind. It's always exciting to read anything she creates. I especially love her dark romances, but sometimes it's fun to see her softer side take center stage. Now, after a bit of teasing, I'm dying for the youngest Crowne's story because I have a feeling Little sister Lyric might have the best one yet. I'm patiently waiting for Crowne Jewel, as we speak, even though it will seem like forever for it to arrive.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Colton's brothers have a plan to get him back in the game, even though their idea of 'help' might drive him crazy. Brother Liam is managing a new client and wants Colton to meet her. Maybe they can work together and help each other get a new start. This is how he ends up in the same space with Skye- a beautiful girl with the voice of an angel. She quietly drops into his life and all bets are off.
Skye Phillips has allowed her demanding family to rule her life for far too long, while leaving her own happiness in the dust. She agrees to their terms, but has her own dream in mind and time is running out to make it happen. Skye has major talent but lets anxiety and fear rule her life. A career as a professional singer and stage fright are not a winning combination and her confidence is at an all time low. Maybe her parents are right- she should just give up and go home.
Under the right guidance, Skye could be a rising star, if only she didn't freeze in front of a crowd. She's an unknown that's a risk to take a chance on, but Colton can sees her raw talent and potential. He feels an immediate pull but needs to resist the overwhelming attraction he feels in Skye's presence. How will he keep these undeniable feelings locked down long enough to show this woman what she's capable of and what he can do for her career?
The powers that be hatch a far fetched plan- a staged romance that will benefit them both- get some quick publicity trending and get out- a temporary relationship with no strings attached. This whole thing might seem impossible to pull off, but the idea of faking a relationship for the sake of the greater good never felt so real or so right! The intense give and take, the ups and downs as they explored each others needs and desires was hot AF. The plot is twisting, sparks are flying high and the steamy tension continues! Those rules they agreed on? They went flying right out the window.
I loved getting to know Colton's softer, protective side and that heart of gold he hides under his party boy persona was absolutely irresistible. Skye is such a sweetheart with that amazing voice, but lets worry steal away her happiness. Watching her emerge from her shell and live for herself was uplifting and powerful to see. Will these two flawed but not so different people let their fears go and find love after all? Well, Momma Crowne and her tingles are never wrong! What a beautiful ending to Colton and Skye's emotional story.
When I discovered that CD Reiss was writing this long awaited next book in her Crowne series, I almost lost my mind. It's always exciting to read anything she creates. I especially love her dark romances, but sometimes it's fun to see her softer side take center stage. Now, after a bit of teasing, I'm dying for the youngest Crowne's story because I have a feeling Little sister Lyric might have the best one yet. I'm patiently waiting for Crowne Jewel, as we speak, even though it will seem like forever for it to arrive.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 20, 2023
The Crownes are back and this is my favorite of the series by a long shot. CD Reiss wrote characters both who struggled with anxiety and self-doubt, but also had hidden strengths. I especially loved how they each found a kindred spirit in the other and how that connection brought out the best in them. Colton was so sweet, I just wanted to cuddle him up. On the surface, he seems like such a complete slacker, but his dedication to his craft and helping Skye succeed were endearing. Skye for her part is appealingly level-headed and pragmatic when she isn’t deep in her anxiety. The slow burning relationship between them was HOT once it got going, but was also heart warmingly sweet too.
Skye is a talented singer who can’t sing in front of strangers and is crippled with anxiety. At the request of her agent, she considers working with his brother Colton on a last ditch attempt to make her EP and potentially launch her career. Colton, after being ditched by his former client and girlfriend and burning through his inheritance, reluctantly agrees to come out of hiding and do it. He is arguably one of the most talented producers in the industry. As they begin working together, Colton sweetly brings Skye out of her shell and works his magic to bring out the best in her. When an industry exec realizes they are working together, he mistakenly thinks they are also together. Colton reluctantly agrees to a fake relationship but as time passes, feelings get involved. But as the deadline looms to finish Skye’s EP, so does the deadline on their time.
I loved how incredibly thoughtful Colton was in this story. He sees so much when it comes to Skye and I loved how they connected. It gave me all the feels in their slow burn to some serious spicy steam. I am not usually a fan of fake relationships, but it really worked well for this story. I just loved this story so much and can not recommend it enough, even if this is the first Crowne book you read. It is a story with a lot of heart, action, STEAM, and an ending that will leave you with all the warm fuzzies.
Skye is a talented singer who can’t sing in front of strangers and is crippled with anxiety. At the request of her agent, she considers working with his brother Colton on a last ditch attempt to make her EP and potentially launch her career. Colton, after being ditched by his former client and girlfriend and burning through his inheritance, reluctantly agrees to come out of hiding and do it. He is arguably one of the most talented producers in the industry. As they begin working together, Colton sweetly brings Skye out of her shell and works his magic to bring out the best in her. When an industry exec realizes they are working together, he mistakenly thinks they are also together. Colton reluctantly agrees to a fake relationship but as time passes, feelings get involved. But as the deadline looms to finish Skye’s EP, so does the deadline on their time.
I loved how incredibly thoughtful Colton was in this story. He sees so much when it comes to Skye and I loved how they connected. It gave me all the feels in their slow burn to some serious spicy steam. I am not usually a fan of fake relationships, but it really worked well for this story. I just loved this story so much and can not recommend it enough, even if this is the first Crowne book you read. It is a story with a lot of heart, action, STEAM, and an ending that will leave you with all the warm fuzzies.
February 4, 2023
This was a light, breezy romance about two people at lower points in their life, they aren’t where they want to be professionally and they are both kind of giving it a last half hearted go.
Colton and Skye meet in a very serendipitous way that was swoony.
It’s a fake relationship, music industry romance but, neither of those aspects played a huge part in the story in my opinion.
They have an instant attraction and they don’t hide from it. They agree to leave feelings out of their physical relationship… obviously that’s not going to happen.
I enjoyed the easy flow of the story. I liked both characters and loved that they were both very supportive of each other.
I appreciated the characters growth, I liked that it happened for them both with each others support, yet they came to their conclusions and changes in their own time/terms.
The story was enjoyable, the characters are easily likable, their conversations were cute, fun and steamy.
I loved the way the story ended. It was a bit insta-love, I’m not a big fan of that trope, though I think it was a well written, lighter romance that had characters with heart.
Colton and Skye meet in a very serendipitous way that was swoony.
It’s a fake relationship, music industry romance but, neither of those aspects played a huge part in the story in my opinion.
They have an instant attraction and they don’t hide from it. They agree to leave feelings out of their physical relationship… obviously that’s not going to happen.
I enjoyed the easy flow of the story. I liked both characters and loved that they were both very supportive of each other.
I appreciated the characters growth, I liked that it happened for them both with each others support, yet they came to their conclusions and changes in their own time/terms.
The story was enjoyable, the characters are easily likable, their conversations were cute, fun and steamy.
I loved the way the story ended. It was a bit insta-love, I’m not a big fan of that trope, though I think it was a well written, lighter romance that had characters with heart.
January 31, 2023
***ARC Provided by the Author***
Sometimes a lack of perfection is actually perfect.
Sometimes fear of failing is more powerful than failing.
Sometimes we lose who we are because we are so focused on seeing ourselves through the filter of the opinions of others.
Colton and Skye are perfect for one another. But neither of them are perfect and that in and of itself made this book amazing.
Romance books are about people falling in love. We all know that.
But this one is about people who fail, who see themselves as failures. It's about real struggles and about finding your place when no one thinks you are where you should be. And it's about people falling in love; and doing so in a way that leaves you feeling there's no one in the world more perfect for one another than the two of them.
I can't say a lot without spoiling it for others, but this book made you cheer for the characters. I was emotionally invested and I wanted them to figure out a way for all of it to work out. And watching them finally see who they are, without the opinions of others deciding for them was a fantastic journey through this book.
Oh, and the author has been to Los Angeles...in fact in her bio she admits that she's lived in LA. And it shows. Admittedly this is a pet peeve of mine, but it is what it is.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
Sometimes a lack of perfection is actually perfect.
Sometimes fear of failing is more powerful than failing.
Sometimes we lose who we are because we are so focused on seeing ourselves through the filter of the opinions of others.
Colton and Skye are perfect for one another. But neither of them are perfect and that in and of itself made this book amazing.
Romance books are about people falling in love. We all know that.
But this one is about people who fail, who see themselves as failures. It's about real struggles and about finding your place when no one thinks you are where you should be. And it's about people falling in love; and doing so in a way that leaves you feeling there's no one in the world more perfect for one another than the two of them.
I can't say a lot without spoiling it for others, but this book made you cheer for the characters. I was emotionally invested and I wanted them to figure out a way for all of it to work out. And watching them finally see who they are, without the opinions of others deciding for them was a fantastic journey through this book.
Oh, and the author has been to Los Angeles...in fact in her bio she admits that she's lived in LA. And it shows. Admittedly this is a pet peeve of mine, but it is what it is.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
January 22, 2023
Colton is one complicated man. Skye is one complex woman. They make for one incredibly complex interesting team. They fit with each other in ways they weren’t looking for. Loved all the back and fourth with them. Couldn’t wait to see what they were going to do next.
March 4, 2023
DNF @ 13%. I could not connect with the story.
January 31, 2023
Subtly mentioned in previous Crowne brother books, I’d really been looking forward to getting to know Colton better, the youngest of the tribe. Unlike his successful siblings, he’d broken away from the family norm, yet I’m thankful that CD offered us his charming sexy self, permanent life motto included.
I couldn’t have wished to meet a more chivalrous, honourable and nerdy guy rolled into one if it weren’t for Reiss nailing his persona so well. A genius in the music world, he’s observant, and his fined-tuned ear picks up on talent when he hears it. Having been bitten big-time in his career, in the now and itching for a change, Colton is understandably a tad wary about getting back in the groove, but with some heartfelt persuasion, he agrees to take the next step. Reiss being Reiss, her throwing in the unexpected never fails—aha—there’s always a catch in her stories!
“You have more potential than any of us.”
Neither has the author touched lightly on anxiety issues. And the way she’d put it into perspective and how to try not to let it get the better of you was well-noted. However, it’s not plain sailing for Skye. Tick tock, tick tock, time is flying. The opportunity to demonstrate what she’s capable of meant overcoming her fears. It was either that or going home to a completely different life put on hold. Considering the ongoing pressure, I thought she handled it pretty well.
‘I don’t even know where my anxiety ends and my own brain begins, because I’m fine.’
Of course, Skye has the best musical guru in town to guide her through thick and thin. Not without its complications, Colton bends over backwards to help her. Ooh, my goodness! Never could I have imagined Reiss’ knowledge of voices ranked from alto to soprano and much more besides. Observing him look for that perfect pitch was something else, but would Skye be able to do what he asked of her?
“Here’s a hint. It ain’t the big notes.”
In the mix, there’s a look but don’t touch rule with a twist. I was convinced these two gifted lovers of melody would have reached their goals without it; however, I’d been a tad rash since I had no idea what was coming. I loved their first kiss; the feels, especially the LA ones that were new to me. And, of course, Reiss never fails to give her readers steaminess in poignantly meaningful scenes at just the right moment.
“It only works if we keep it simple.”
“Noted. Good. We have seven minutes. Would you like to do some visual mindfulness?”
Reading music-romance has never been my thing. I admit to being a mediocre critic as I’m a frustrated musician who knows what it’s like performing on stage. I find flaws here, there and everywhere; nevertheless, Reiss cracked it. Bravo!
I couldn’t have wished to meet a more chivalrous, honourable and nerdy guy rolled into one if it weren’t for Reiss nailing his persona so well. A genius in the music world, he’s observant, and his fined-tuned ear picks up on talent when he hears it. Having been bitten big-time in his career, in the now and itching for a change, Colton is understandably a tad wary about getting back in the groove, but with some heartfelt persuasion, he agrees to take the next step. Reiss being Reiss, her throwing in the unexpected never fails—aha—there’s always a catch in her stories!
“You have more potential than any of us.”
Neither has the author touched lightly on anxiety issues. And the way she’d put it into perspective and how to try not to let it get the better of you was well-noted. However, it’s not plain sailing for Skye. Tick tock, tick tock, time is flying. The opportunity to demonstrate what she’s capable of meant overcoming her fears. It was either that or going home to a completely different life put on hold. Considering the ongoing pressure, I thought she handled it pretty well.
‘I don’t even know where my anxiety ends and my own brain begins, because I’m fine.’
Of course, Skye has the best musical guru in town to guide her through thick and thin. Not without its complications, Colton bends over backwards to help her. Ooh, my goodness! Never could I have imagined Reiss’ knowledge of voices ranked from alto to soprano and much more besides. Observing him look for that perfect pitch was something else, but would Skye be able to do what he asked of her?
“Here’s a hint. It ain’t the big notes.”
In the mix, there’s a look but don’t touch rule with a twist. I was convinced these two gifted lovers of melody would have reached their goals without it; however, I’d been a tad rash since I had no idea what was coming. I loved their first kiss; the feels, especially the LA ones that were new to me. And, of course, Reiss never fails to give her readers steaminess in poignantly meaningful scenes at just the right moment.
“It only works if we keep it simple.”
“Noted. Good. We have seven minutes. Would you like to do some visual mindfulness?”
Reading music-romance has never been my thing. I admit to being a mediocre critic as I’m a frustrated musician who knows what it’s like performing on stage. I find flaws here, there and everywhere; nevertheless, Reiss cracked it. Bravo!
January 9, 2024
Wow, hmmmmm, I don’t know about this one, guys. I thought it was cute. Colton was hot. Skye was relatable.
My problem was with the pacing. I don’t know how and when they caught feelings, because it was so abrupt. We were 49% in with no real chemistry, just physical attraction, and suddenly, he’s in love and admitting it. Things were all over the place and didn’t make much sense. The pacing. Was. Just. Off. Didn’t like it. Affected my entire mood.
The next bit is my own personal bias. I’m a loyal person, okay? You’re my good friend, I love you, and you tell me someone I admire fucked you over. They took your entire worth of effort and tossed it down the drain. You’re screwed because of them, and your confidence just went poof. You are fucked up from that experience.
You’re my person, and I love you, and this someone ruined you. I’m going to hate that person with my entire life. Everything I like about that someone? Gone. Poof. Replaced by hate. Maybe I’m not going to be a jackass and call them names. Maybe they’re still admirable—as someone with a career. They did what they had to do to get forward in life, and that’s good for them, but they hurt you, and I’m not about that. So I’m going to hate them.
That someone is Tamika in the book, and that’s what she did to Colton, and I get it, she’s a woman and women in any kind of field have to fight to earn their place. Because the world is sick and misogynistic as fuck, and you have to do what you have to do to make it big. But if I were Skye, and I saw Tamika and I knew what she did to Colton, I would never feel an ounce of admiration for that woman.
Like I said. Personal bias. Didn’t like the done-and-forgiven thing. Didn’t like the i’m-such-a-big-fan thing. Nope.
3 stars.
My problem was with the pacing. I don’t know how and when they caught feelings, because it was so abrupt. We were 49% in with no real chemistry, just physical attraction, and suddenly, he’s in love and admitting it. Things were all over the place and didn’t make much sense. The pacing. Was. Just. Off. Didn’t like it. Affected my entire mood.
The next bit is my own personal bias. I’m a loyal person, okay? You’re my good friend, I love you, and you tell me someone I admire fucked you over. They took your entire worth of effort and tossed it down the drain. You’re screwed because of them, and your confidence just went poof. You are fucked up from that experience.
You’re my person, and I love you, and this someone ruined you. I’m going to hate that person with my entire life. Everything I like about that someone? Gone. Poof. Replaced by hate. Maybe I’m not going to be a jackass and call them names. Maybe they’re still admirable—as someone with a career. They did what they had to do to get forward in life, and that’s good for them, but they hurt you, and I’m not about that. So I’m going to hate them.
That someone is Tamika in the book, and that’s what she did to Colton, and I get it, she’s a woman and women in any kind of field have to fight to earn their place. Because the world is sick and misogynistic as fuck, and you have to do what you have to do to make it big. But if I were Skye, and I saw Tamika and I knew what she did to Colton, I would never feel an ounce of admiration for that woman.
Like I said. Personal bias. Didn’t like the done-and-forgiven thing. Didn’t like the i’m-such-a-big-fan thing. Nope.
3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2023
The tingle strikes again 💕
In a family of hot AF sexy alphas Colton is definitely the black sheep and he does not give two fucks about it! He’s a sweet, sexy nerd (who had to learn to be cool) who is kinda in a rut and has the “don’t wants” until he hears an angel singing {who happens to be Liam’s new pet project}.
Fake dating ensues bc Gene Testarossa (yep that dude) is always looking for the next best thing-and he’s betting on Skye. If only she can get anxiety to cooperate with her🥺
Colton is a breath of fresh air and Skye needs that. She is so structured and is putting so much pressure on herself. Sometimes all you need is to say fuck it & let the chips fall especially if a sweet sexy giver of Os is there to catch you 😘
…can’t wait to find out who’s messing with Lyric 🤔
💕fave quotes📖
My mouth tastes as if I set a polyester shirt on fire then gnawed on whatever melty stuff was left.😜🤪🤣
My hands and mouth on you. My cock deep inside you. If you still want it when you’re awake, I’m going to fuck you unconscious. I want that. I wanted it before last night, but in a casual, sort of “sure, you’re cute and we’re both grown-ups,” kind of way. Now, I’m pretty sure I’d pick up a Volkswagen if his dick was under it. And his hands. And his mouth with that licking and sucking he promised.——👀🥵 um HELLO! Sweet, crazy smart, aloof Colton is a dirty boy 😏
“What do you want, Colton?” She creases her brow and repeats the question more softly. “What do you want?” There’s only ever been one answer. “Everything. I want everything. Now.” “Go get it.”—-💕 the Tingle and a good talk. Doreen for the win 😘
“I want you to succeed. And if you don’t, I want you to know something.” She points at me. “It isn’t you. You’re perfect. If whoever rejects you can’t see that, that’s their problem. Not yours. You understand?”—-so I’m not going to lie I was kinda mad at Skye’s mom for a bit. But I get it she wants her daughter with her bc it’s tough to let our kids go…she won me over right here though.
Everything now sometimes means you have to wait for everything to fall into place.🖤🖤🖤
In a family of hot AF sexy alphas Colton is definitely the black sheep and he does not give two fucks about it! He’s a sweet, sexy nerd (who had to learn to be cool) who is kinda in a rut and has the “don’t wants” until he hears an angel singing {who happens to be Liam’s new pet project}.
Fake dating ensues bc Gene Testarossa (yep that dude) is always looking for the next best thing-and he’s betting on Skye. If only she can get anxiety to cooperate with her🥺
Colton is a breath of fresh air and Skye needs that. She is so structured and is putting so much pressure on herself. Sometimes all you need is to say fuck it & let the chips fall especially if a sweet sexy giver of Os is there to catch you 😘
…can’t wait to find out who’s messing with Lyric 🤔
💕fave quotes📖
My mouth tastes as if I set a polyester shirt on fire then gnawed on whatever melty stuff was left.😜🤪🤣
My hands and mouth on you. My cock deep inside you. If you still want it when you’re awake, I’m going to fuck you unconscious. I want that. I wanted it before last night, but in a casual, sort of “sure, you’re cute and we’re both grown-ups,” kind of way. Now, I’m pretty sure I’d pick up a Volkswagen if his dick was under it. And his hands. And his mouth with that licking and sucking he promised.——👀🥵 um HELLO! Sweet, crazy smart, aloof Colton is a dirty boy 😏
“What do you want, Colton?” She creases her brow and repeats the question more softly. “What do you want?” There’s only ever been one answer. “Everything. I want everything. Now.” “Go get it.”—-💕 the Tingle and a good talk. Doreen for the win 😘
“I want you to succeed. And if you don’t, I want you to know something.” She points at me. “It isn’t you. You’re perfect. If whoever rejects you can’t see that, that’s their problem. Not yours. You understand?”—-so I’m not going to lie I was kinda mad at Skye’s mom for a bit. But I get it she wants her daughter with her bc it’s tough to let our kids go…she won me over right here though.
Everything now sometimes means you have to wait for everything to fall into place.🖤🖤🖤
February 4, 2023
Overall: 4.5/5
Spice level: 3/5
Tropes: fake dating
This next installment of the Crowne Brother Series had me swooning! Colton has a lot of really big feelings and a heart as big as the city he calls home.
The chemistry between Skye and Colton is felt immediately and consistently throughout the story. They love and support each other quickly and thoroughly. And I loved the way Colton helped Skye work through her anxiety.
I felt the pacing, plot, and flow were consistent and kept me engaged. I can't wait to see what's in store for the Crowne sister, Lyric!
Spice level: 3/5
Tropes: fake dating
This next installment of the Crowne Brother Series had me swooning! Colton has a lot of really big feelings and a heart as big as the city he calls home.
The chemistry between Skye and Colton is felt immediately and consistently throughout the story. They love and support each other quickly and thoroughly. And I loved the way Colton helped Skye work through her anxiety.
I felt the pacing, plot, and flow were consistent and kept me engaged. I can't wait to see what's in store for the Crowne sister, Lyric!
February 5, 2023
I've been on a break with this genera of stories and now I've remembered why...
Didn't liked or connect with the story.
Didn't liked the way the author used/approached "anxiety".
Both MC are barely adults so they acted all cringe about fellings and being in fake relationship that I really didn't understand the need of, and was just there to check troupe box.
Didn't liked or connect with the story.
Didn't liked the way the author used/approached "anxiety".
Both MC are barely adults so they acted all cringe about fellings and being in fake relationship that I really didn't understand the need of, and was just there to check troupe box.
February 2, 2023
I am so obsessed with Colton and Layne..I think they got me right from the start! I mena, they are both real and effed up as most of us..it made them real and familiar to me, especially Skye, and just made me love them even more!
July 23, 2023
Mindblown
I love C D Reiss but this book was a bit out of my sphere. I needed explanations of so many things. What is a ‘plug in’ being the main one. Overall it made me feel rather old (I am a bit old!). I didn’t understand half of the dialogue. All that said, it’s a super love story. We all deserve to be loved like Colton loves.
I love C D Reiss but this book was a bit out of my sphere. I needed explanations of so many things. What is a ‘plug in’ being the main one. Overall it made me feel rather old (I am a bit old!). I didn’t understand half of the dialogue. All that said, it’s a super love story. We all deserve to be loved like Colton loves.
Read
January 28, 2023hmmmmmmm
February 4, 2023
Colton and Skye have a fabulous story with all the chemistry. I love how Colton is the younger brother and textbook written younger laidback persona. Skye was a great character and I loved how she had her flaws which made her very relatable. Their story when it comes together has a quick pace, incredible chemistry and an all together very enjoyable story.
So enjoyable I had to read it twice
So enjoyable I had to read it twice
January 17, 2023
I was struggling to find words that described how I felt about this book and then I realized this book made me feel happy, it is a feel good story that includes characters that are not perfect and yet they are great. Colton and Skye both come from happy families, both are super smart and yet both have hang ups that almost get in their way and ruin their lives. The pace is excellent and the ending is perfect. I look forward to Lyric’s story.
February 4, 2023
This was so good. No author can depict nuances and vibe of LA better than CD. This story is so real and relevant. It takes me back to a time when LA is fun. There was a time, when a cute guy could meet a diamond in the rough and make her shine. All the feels were just perfect in this one. Also loved the updates on the other brothers. Can't wait for the next book.
January 28, 2023
Colton and Skye meet unexpectedly and then again when his brother wants him to assist in producing her EP. This was a fun and interesting read. I couldn’t put it down!
May 18, 2023
This is an unexpected story for me. Just because I didn't know what to expect from Colton and Skye's story and how it will go. But I'm glad I read this one and didn't miss out on it. Unravelling these two is a part-time job. Their characters are just so complex and it took me a bit to understand them. But I couldn't help but notice how much they are perfect for each other. Really amazing! And I am not a huge fan of the trope but I'm all in for Colton and Skye.
February 2, 2023
Overall Grade: 4.5 ⭐️
Tropes: fake relationship; work romance; LA romance; contemporary romance; billionaire brothers; band of brothers
Bear with me as I ramble about CD Reiss’s newest Crowne family story, Fake Crowne. There’s so much I want to say, but it’s not organized or probably even insightful; however, I need to say it anyway.
Reiss is attempting (I actually believe she did it — but I really want to hear from people) to capture a voice in romancelandia that is burgeoning: the voice of the later Millenials or the older Gen Zers. I’ve been thinking about this generation in romancelandia. They live in a different world than the former generations, and they connect in spaces that are visual and muted. They’ve been raised with trauma infused into their systems and parents who have recognized that and created safe spaces to fall. All of that has conspired to build people with mental health struggles. How does this generation fall in love? It’s both the same and different from the past. And CD Reiss builds the space and unspoken words into the relationship between Colton Crowne and Skye.
As I was reading this book, I was imagining my son’s voice as Skye’s voice. They have very similar mental health struggles, and Reiss elaborated on them in a real way. Both Colton and Skye are overwhelmed by and push against parental expectations. Colton rebels against it, while Skye contends with them within a set of stifling boundaries she sets for herself. Through this struggle, Colton and Skye forge a fake relationship, upend their own set boundaries of that relationship, and fall in love on their own terms. This is CD Reiss imagining correctly, I think, a love forged in the 21st century by people who simply don’t know the depth of their future. They’ve either denied themselves, rebelled against tradition and expectation, or made concessions to avoid failure.
In fact, that seems to be the battle cry of Fake Crowne: “There’s something comforting about failure. Like I don’t have to be responsible for my work or my choices because…whoops, I failed, color me shocked. Oh well, no big deal. And it’s easy, right? I don’t have to improve. I don’t have to face the next stage. I don’t have to learn. [...] I’m weak, but sometimes weak is a choice.” Through Colton and Skye’s journeys, Reiss suggests that we can treat life in one of three ways: play it safe; fail incredibly and stay down; or fail on some level and get up and try again. Each of these has consequences, and Reiss illustrates it beautifully through Colton and Skye’s falling in love.
Are Reiss’s style and storytelling flair all over this book? Yep. In fact, as I read this book, I felt like it straddled her Crowne Brothers series and her Hollywood A-List/Star-Crossed/Lead Me Back stories. It’s very LA…and freaking Gene Testarossa is back wreaking havoc. Given I’m a So. California girl, I love Reiss’s characterization of LA for her readers. But her knack for wordsmithing and her infusion of spice and steam are encompassed in this book.
Please…read Fake Crowne and tell me she’s capturing some of Gen Z in it. Don’t get me wrong; I’m not of that generation. I simply need more stories in it so we keep Gen Z readers gobbling books, and they need to find themselves in the books that are served. And I believe CD Reiss has done it with her newest book.
Tropes: fake relationship; work romance; LA romance; contemporary romance; billionaire brothers; band of brothers
Bear with me as I ramble about CD Reiss’s newest Crowne family story, Fake Crowne. There’s so much I want to say, but it’s not organized or probably even insightful; however, I need to say it anyway.
Reiss is attempting (I actually believe she did it — but I really want to hear from people) to capture a voice in romancelandia that is burgeoning: the voice of the later Millenials or the older Gen Zers. I’ve been thinking about this generation in romancelandia. They live in a different world than the former generations, and they connect in spaces that are visual and muted. They’ve been raised with trauma infused into their systems and parents who have recognized that and created safe spaces to fall. All of that has conspired to build people with mental health struggles. How does this generation fall in love? It’s both the same and different from the past. And CD Reiss builds the space and unspoken words into the relationship between Colton Crowne and Skye.
As I was reading this book, I was imagining my son’s voice as Skye’s voice. They have very similar mental health struggles, and Reiss elaborated on them in a real way. Both Colton and Skye are overwhelmed by and push against parental expectations. Colton rebels against it, while Skye contends with them within a set of stifling boundaries she sets for herself. Through this struggle, Colton and Skye forge a fake relationship, upend their own set boundaries of that relationship, and fall in love on their own terms. This is CD Reiss imagining correctly, I think, a love forged in the 21st century by people who simply don’t know the depth of their future. They’ve either denied themselves, rebelled against tradition and expectation, or made concessions to avoid failure.
In fact, that seems to be the battle cry of Fake Crowne: “There’s something comforting about failure. Like I don’t have to be responsible for my work or my choices because…whoops, I failed, color me shocked. Oh well, no big deal. And it’s easy, right? I don’t have to improve. I don’t have to face the next stage. I don’t have to learn. [...] I’m weak, but sometimes weak is a choice.” Through Colton and Skye’s journeys, Reiss suggests that we can treat life in one of three ways: play it safe; fail incredibly and stay down; or fail on some level and get up and try again. Each of these has consequences, and Reiss illustrates it beautifully through Colton and Skye’s falling in love.
Are Reiss’s style and storytelling flair all over this book? Yep. In fact, as I read this book, I felt like it straddled her Crowne Brothers series and her Hollywood A-List/Star-Crossed/Lead Me Back stories. It’s very LA…and freaking Gene Testarossa is back wreaking havoc. Given I’m a So. California girl, I love Reiss’s characterization of LA for her readers. But her knack for wordsmithing and her infusion of spice and steam are encompassed in this book.
Please…read Fake Crowne and tell me she’s capturing some of Gen Z in it. Don’t get me wrong; I’m not of that generation. I simply need more stories in it so we keep Gen Z readers gobbling books, and they need to find themselves in the books that are served. And I believe CD Reiss has done it with her newest book.
January 31, 2023
I loved this story, it is book four in the Crowne Brothers Series, it is a fresh story, full of funny moments and two unique main characters. Colton is one of the Crowne boys, who are famous for their last name that represents power and money, he seems to be a man who doesn't care about anything, just a good party and having a good time, he is a music producer although he doesn't pay much attention to it, I don't want to say too much since it is part of the story that we reveal as we read, but not everything is what it seems with him, he is a very talented, intelligent and very handsome and sexy man, and we have Skye, this beautiful girl that she made a deal with her parents and moved to Los Angeles to try to make a career in the world of music, the truth is that she is very talented but she suffers from anxiety attacks when she has to sing in front of strangers and how do you know that is useless If you want to be a singer, apart from that, she is struggling with the time that her parents gave her to achieve it and if she does not succeed, she must enroll in the Faculty of Medicine. Somehow when they meet they end up entangled in a lie that will lead them to work together and this is where tender, hilarious and tangled moments begin, you are going to enjoy this story as much as I do, you can read it without having read the previous ones, I know them highly recommend.
*Thanks to C.D. Reiss and Literally Yours PR for my ARC. I voluntarily leave my honest review*
Esta historia me encanto, es el libro cuatro en la Serie Crowne Brothers, es una historia fresca, llena de momentos graciosos y dos personajes principales unicos. Colton es uno de los chicos Crowne, los cuales son famosos por su apellido que representa poder y dinero, el parece ser un hombre al que nada le importa, solo una buena fiesta y pasarlo bien, es productor de musica aunque no le presta mucha atencion a esto, no quiero contar mucho ya que es parte de la historia que desvelamos a medida que leemos, pero no todo es lo que parece con el, es un hombre muy talentoso, inteligente y muy guapo, y tenemos a Skye, esta hermosa chica que hizo un trato con sus padres y se mudo a Los Angeles para tratar de hacer carrera en el mundo de la musica, la verdad es que es muy talentosa pero sufre de ataques de ansiedad cuando debe cantar frente a desconocidos y como sabran eso no sirve si quieres ser cantante, aparte ella se encuentra luchando con el tiempo que le dieron sus padres para lograrlo y si no lo logra debera matricularse en la Facultad de Medicina. De alguna manera cuando se conocen terminan enredados en una mentira que los llevara a trabajar juntos y es aqui donde comienzan momentos tiernos, graciosisimos y enredos, esta historia la van a disfrutar tanto como yo, pueden leerla sin haber leido las anteriores, yo se las super recomiendo.
*Gracias a C.D. Reiss y Literally Yours PR por mi ARC. Dejo voluntariamente mi reseña honesta*
*Thanks to C.D. Reiss and Literally Yours PR for my ARC. I voluntarily leave my honest review*
Esta historia me encanto, es el libro cuatro en la Serie Crowne Brothers, es una historia fresca, llena de momentos graciosos y dos personajes principales unicos. Colton es uno de los chicos Crowne, los cuales son famosos por su apellido que representa poder y dinero, el parece ser un hombre al que nada le importa, solo una buena fiesta y pasarlo bien, es productor de musica aunque no le presta mucha atencion a esto, no quiero contar mucho ya que es parte de la historia que desvelamos a medida que leemos, pero no todo es lo que parece con el, es un hombre muy talentoso, inteligente y muy guapo, y tenemos a Skye, esta hermosa chica que hizo un trato con sus padres y se mudo a Los Angeles para tratar de hacer carrera en el mundo de la musica, la verdad es que es muy talentosa pero sufre de ataques de ansiedad cuando debe cantar frente a desconocidos y como sabran eso no sirve si quieres ser cantante, aparte ella se encuentra luchando con el tiempo que le dieron sus padres para lograrlo y si no lo logra debera matricularse en la Facultad de Medicina. De alguna manera cuando se conocen terminan enredados en una mentira que los llevara a trabajar juntos y es aqui donde comienzan momentos tiernos, graciosisimos y enredos, esta historia la van a disfrutar tanto como yo, pueden leerla sin haber leido las anteriores, yo se las super recomiendo.
*Gracias a C.D. Reiss y Literally Yours PR por mi ARC. Dejo voluntariamente mi reseña honesta*
February 1, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Colton Crowne is famous for two things: Being one of the music industry's most talented producers and partying away his massive inheritance. I'm a singer with stage fright who's famous for...well..nothing yet. And I promised my family if I didn't make it big by the end of this year, I'd go back to med school. My agent thinks Colton and I would be a great team both in the studio and outside of it-especially if label executives think we're dating. The rules? We can kiss in public, but not in private. We can act like we're doing the deed, as long as we're not. And as far as having actual feelings for each other goes...that's obviously out of the question. But after so many late nights in the studio and a bunch of stolen kisses, I start to see beyond his party boy facade to something real underneath. And he believes in me-with his coaching and encouragement, I am finally overcoming my anxiety and giving the best performances of my life. If only time wasn't running out so fast. Then Colton has an idea to keep us together. It's terrible, but it's the only way. How can I let him destroy everything he's worked for just to make me happy?
Colton Crowne is going to be your next book boyfriend. He is smoking hot. Has a musical producer career that has made him famous and he is good at what he does. He is also loaded but he really loves to party away his fortune and could have any and every woman that he wants. Skye is a girl who wants a music career and has promised her parents that if this doesn't work out in a year that she will go back to college where she is in medical school. However her agent has the perfect way to make things start moving as far as her career is going. Work with the most famous music producer Colton and also fake date him to get the gossip flying all over the place. The main thing that is holding her back is that she really is super smart but is always putting herself down and she suffers from some serious stage fright. Her anxiety is off the charts at time. However she has stood up to her parents and moved across the country to fight for what she really wants to do with her life and I really love that about her. Dreams only ever stay dreams if you are not willing to work for them and she is more than willing to work her butt off. However will this plan to fake date Colton get her where she needs to be so she doesn't have to go back to college and her parents? Well, you have to read the book to find that out. It is a great read. I loved the chemistry between these two characters. They really have something worth growing and fighting for. I loved their growth through the whole entire book and just being able to read their story was really amazing. I loved this book so much and you for sure do not want to miss this one.
Colton Crowne is famous for two things: Being one of the music industry's most talented producers and partying away his massive inheritance. I'm a singer with stage fright who's famous for...well..nothing yet. And I promised my family if I didn't make it big by the end of this year, I'd go back to med school. My agent thinks Colton and I would be a great team both in the studio and outside of it-especially if label executives think we're dating. The rules? We can kiss in public, but not in private. We can act like we're doing the deed, as long as we're not. And as far as having actual feelings for each other goes...that's obviously out of the question. But after so many late nights in the studio and a bunch of stolen kisses, I start to see beyond his party boy facade to something real underneath. And he believes in me-with his coaching and encouragement, I am finally overcoming my anxiety and giving the best performances of my life. If only time wasn't running out so fast. Then Colton has an idea to keep us together. It's terrible, but it's the only way. How can I let him destroy everything he's worked for just to make me happy?
Colton Crowne is going to be your next book boyfriend. He is smoking hot. Has a musical producer career that has made him famous and he is good at what he does. He is also loaded but he really loves to party away his fortune and could have any and every woman that he wants. Skye is a girl who wants a music career and has promised her parents that if this doesn't work out in a year that she will go back to college where she is in medical school. However her agent has the perfect way to make things start moving as far as her career is going. Work with the most famous music producer Colton and also fake date him to get the gossip flying all over the place. The main thing that is holding her back is that she really is super smart but is always putting herself down and she suffers from some serious stage fright. Her anxiety is off the charts at time. However she has stood up to her parents and moved across the country to fight for what she really wants to do with her life and I really love that about her. Dreams only ever stay dreams if you are not willing to work for them and she is more than willing to work her butt off. However will this plan to fake date Colton get her where she needs to be so she doesn't have to go back to college and her parents? Well, you have to read the book to find that out. It is a great read. I loved the chemistry between these two characters. They really have something worth growing and fighting for. I loved their growth through the whole entire book and just being able to read their story was really amazing. I loved this book so much and you for sure do not want to miss this one.
January 24, 2023
Well, HELLO Colton Crowne! You've been in the background, a little elusive, a little bit of a partier, but I knew you had a story to tell. You're the youngest of the brothers and you all get the one BIG THING to help you start out in life. Your big thing did not go as planned and you are now suffering for it. Luckily, your family loves you, just not the mess you leave behind after a night of letting loose.
I've been curious about Colton and wondered how each successful sibling got to where they are and how he just flatlined. What happened to this guy? I mean, he's a genius for goodness sake! When we get his story, we learn that he went ALL IN. He lives by his motto(s). LIVE FREE and Everything Now. He is beyond smart, but his passion for music and combining that with relationships has taken a turn for him. When his brother suggests he work with someone that has potential, he has to say yes. Maybe to prove himself? Maybe to get back on track? He has no idea what he's in store for.
Skye is a woman with one goal. To make it as a singer in LA before she has to turn her life on her dreams and return to Michigan to become a doctor. She's smart, but she has an issue with performing. She gets so anxious and it's debilitating for her. Will she crash and burn, or will Colton be her answer to success?
I'm always game for a fake relationship and this is how these two started at the suggestion of Colton's brother. To give both Colton and Skye a leg up and work with the paps in order to help them succeed with what they are trying to do. You have to work the system a little bit. But we all know how fake relationships go in romance novels. These two start out fake and then quickly work their way to fake with benefits. But Colton and Skye are sexy, hot and have a fire between them. They understand one another. It's too bad that everything has an expiration date.
The Crowne's are such a fun family and I love them all. From the parents and the way mama Crowne feels tingles to the siblings and the way they support one another, I love reading about them and CD Reiss's LA. You can visualize the streets and clubs and lights in the story and place yourself right in the middle of it. It may be Reiss's LA, but I am right there experiencing it. That's the gift CD gives us while we are falling in love with characters that just want each other. They connect physically and with music. I couldn't imagine them NOT with one another. From a chance meeting, to being set up, it all worked out how it was supposed to. Colton took a chance on someone that wasn't sure they could perform while Skye took a chance on a producer that thought he had already failed. Their failures were each others success.
If you enjoy fake relationships, a great family, a music scene and two characters that have an instant connection, Fake Crowne will be a hit. Ms Reiss handled Skye's anxiety and didn't make it perfect or sweep it under the rug. It was a major part of the storyline and it made me love Colton and Skye that much more.
I've been curious about Colton and wondered how each successful sibling got to where they are and how he just flatlined. What happened to this guy? I mean, he's a genius for goodness sake! When we get his story, we learn that he went ALL IN. He lives by his motto(s). LIVE FREE and Everything Now. He is beyond smart, but his passion for music and combining that with relationships has taken a turn for him. When his brother suggests he work with someone that has potential, he has to say yes. Maybe to prove himself? Maybe to get back on track? He has no idea what he's in store for.
Skye is a woman with one goal. To make it as a singer in LA before she has to turn her life on her dreams and return to Michigan to become a doctor. She's smart, but she has an issue with performing. She gets so anxious and it's debilitating for her. Will she crash and burn, or will Colton be her answer to success?
I'm always game for a fake relationship and this is how these two started at the suggestion of Colton's brother. To give both Colton and Skye a leg up and work with the paps in order to help them succeed with what they are trying to do. You have to work the system a little bit. But we all know how fake relationships go in romance novels. These two start out fake and then quickly work their way to fake with benefits. But Colton and Skye are sexy, hot and have a fire between them. They understand one another. It's too bad that everything has an expiration date.
The Crowne's are such a fun family and I love them all. From the parents and the way mama Crowne feels tingles to the siblings and the way they support one another, I love reading about them and CD Reiss's LA. You can visualize the streets and clubs and lights in the story and place yourself right in the middle of it. It may be Reiss's LA, but I am right there experiencing it. That's the gift CD gives us while we are falling in love with characters that just want each other. They connect physically and with music. I couldn't imagine them NOT with one another. From a chance meeting, to being set up, it all worked out how it was supposed to. Colton took a chance on someone that wasn't sure they could perform while Skye took a chance on a producer that thought he had already failed. Their failures were each others success.
If you enjoy fake relationships, a great family, a music scene and two characters that have an instant connection, Fake Crowne will be a hit. Ms Reiss handled Skye's anxiety and didn't make it perfect or sweep it under the rug. It was a major part of the storyline and it made me love Colton and Skye that much more.
February 7, 2023
Cute story with the most deluded female character I’ve ever read! Skye from Michigan was on her way to study medicine but her big desire to try for a singing career made her try a pact with her parents. They’re going to support her for two years while she tries for success in Hollywood but if at the end she failed, she goes back home straight to med school. Her time is growing short and her extreme social anxiety is making it near impossible to get anywhere, in spite of her huge talent.
Colton Crowne is back home after spending his whole inheritance in various projects and a huge scandal with a current top pop star Tamika. After many lawyers and court rooms, he’s back home living in his brother Logan’s pool house, penniless and still giving parties for the drunk and the restless. His older brother Liam asked him to work with his talent since he’s a singer whisperer, he initially refused, but after he heart Skye, he was in.
I didn’t exactly feel how they fell in love, but once they were in a relation, they were lovely. They were supposed to be in a fake relation to improve her chances at getting contracts but of course, they blurred the lines and broke all their rules. They were cute together, he made her feel safe, introduced her to the Pez dispenser collection he got from Logan, and in some strange way, holding a Pez in her hand made her deal with her anxiety.
I loved how Colton got his jibe back after feeling like a failure. He’s incredibly nerdy and talented and from how smart he is, I didn’t understand why he failed at previous projects. All I know is he didn’t fail with Skye, but she was her own worst enemy. She was hung up that her time was up and she had to go back to school. I can’t believe how you want to pursue something that made you unhappy and brought more stress than what she already had, but she seemed to be hung up on failure. And her mother was so pushy and manipulative! I got anxiety during the deals with the mother and her insistence on med school!
I loved the family moments with the Crowne brothers when they throw jabs at each other, loved mother Crowne and her tingly feelings, loved little Matt and his Lego figurines. I didn’t love Skye’s mother, tolerated her father who was more understanding. Loved Skye’s friends Fátima of the tamales dulces and Becca. It was a cute story but I felt it lacked more depth and a better back story. Even so, it was entertaining and it gave a great view of the world of Hollywood music, cutthroat and chaotic.
Colton Crowne is back home after spending his whole inheritance in various projects and a huge scandal with a current top pop star Tamika. After many lawyers and court rooms, he’s back home living in his brother Logan’s pool house, penniless and still giving parties for the drunk and the restless. His older brother Liam asked him to work with his talent since he’s a singer whisperer, he initially refused, but after he heart Skye, he was in.
I didn’t exactly feel how they fell in love, but once they were in a relation, they were lovely. They were supposed to be in a fake relation to improve her chances at getting contracts but of course, they blurred the lines and broke all their rules. They were cute together, he made her feel safe, introduced her to the Pez dispenser collection he got from Logan, and in some strange way, holding a Pez in her hand made her deal with her anxiety.
I loved how Colton got his jibe back after feeling like a failure. He’s incredibly nerdy and talented and from how smart he is, I didn’t understand why he failed at previous projects. All I know is he didn’t fail with Skye, but she was her own worst enemy. She was hung up that her time was up and she had to go back to school. I can’t believe how you want to pursue something that made you unhappy and brought more stress than what she already had, but she seemed to be hung up on failure. And her mother was so pushy and manipulative! I got anxiety during the deals with the mother and her insistence on med school!
I loved the family moments with the Crowne brothers when they throw jabs at each other, loved mother Crowne and her tingly feelings, loved little Matt and his Lego figurines. I didn’t love Skye’s mother, tolerated her father who was more understanding. Loved Skye’s friends Fátima of the tamales dulces and Becca. It was a cute story but I felt it lacked more depth and a better back story. Even so, it was entertaining and it gave a great view of the world of Hollywood music, cutthroat and chaotic.
January 28, 2023
Colton and Skye's intoxicating and seductive story took my breath away! Colton is a brilliant music producer, and voice whisperer, who was taken advantage of and is now broke, and living in his brothers guest house. He has lost his confidence and his way. When his brother Liam asks him to help his client and produce some songs for her, Colton is reluctant. But when he hears her voice, it is a siren call to him, and he is sure he can bring out her best. Skye is a talented singer with stage fright. She is in LA trying to make a living but can only sing when no one is watching her. Colton understands and calms her like no one else can. She trusts him because she can see the vulnerable, caring man behind his easy, casual façade. They begin working together, and when Liam suggests they pretend to be in a relationship, to create buz, they agree to that as well. This is Skye's last chance to find success. If it doesn't work she is heading back to Michigan to finish med school. The more Colton and Skye work together, and pretend touch and kiss, the more the electricity between them turns to fiery attraction that they can't ignore. With the clock ticking, the lines become blurred between what is fake and what is real. The closer the expiration date looms, the more desperate they are for each other, trying to ignore how connected their hearts have become. When the pressure gets too great, Skye is afraid she isn't cut out for the west coast life. But can Colton convince her to stay, or will she head home as a failure breaking both their hearts?
Colton and Skye are flawed and complex, with beautiful hearts of gold. I loved them both and couldn't help but cheer for their HEA! I loved watching Colton rediscover his passion for music production, and learning to open his heart to fight for what he truly wanted. My heart broke for Skye as she struggled so much, but then loved seeing her grow stronger and more confident to follow her dreams. Their hard fought journey was not an easy one but so worth the ride. Reiss expertly crafted a beautiful, poignant, and sizzling story that held me captive from beginning to end, and I loved every minute of it!
Colton and Skye are flawed and complex, with beautiful hearts of gold. I loved them both and couldn't help but cheer for their HEA! I loved watching Colton rediscover his passion for music production, and learning to open his heart to fight for what he truly wanted. My heart broke for Skye as she struggled so much, but then loved seeing her grow stronger and more confident to follow her dreams. Their hard fought journey was not an easy one but so worth the ride. Reiss expertly crafted a beautiful, poignant, and sizzling story that held me captive from beginning to end, and I loved every minute of it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews