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My Favorite Holidate
Wanted: one hot billionaire to pose as my Christmas boyfriend. Must be willing to make my cheating ex jealous when you kiss me under the mistletoe at all the holiday parties. Bonus points if you make him cry.
To my surprise my billionaire boss is more than up for the challenge of coming down the chimney as my holiday boyfriend. The sexy single dad desperately needs a plus one at a Christmas Eve wedding, where he’s the best man and I’m the maid of honor.
And since my ex is in the wedding party too, my boss and I team up as a pair of insta-lovebirds for the holiday season, including during the annual week-long Christmas competition leading up to the snowy destination wedding.
But soon staying up late to string the best popcorn balls ever turns into a scorching night in his arms where the chestnuts aren’t the only thing roasting on the open fire.
Can all these winter wonderland nights seeking revenge turn into the real thing when we return to the office? Or are we destined to go the way of a Christmas tree on New Year’s?
To my surprise my billionaire boss is more than up for the challenge of coming down the chimney as my holiday boyfriend. The sexy single dad desperately needs a plus one at a Christmas Eve wedding, where he’s the best man and I’m the maid of honor.
And since my ex is in the wedding party too, my boss and I team up as a pair of insta-lovebirds for the holiday season, including during the annual week-long Christmas competition leading up to the snowy destination wedding.
But soon staying up late to string the best popcorn balls ever turns into a scorching night in his arms where the chestnuts aren’t the only thing roasting on the open fire.
Can all these winter wonderland nights seeking revenge turn into the real thing when we return to the office? Or are we destined to go the way of a Christmas tree on New Year’s?
500 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2024
About the author
Lauren Blakely
228 books22.4k followersYou can find Lauren on TikTok at @laurenblakelybooks! A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s sexy, feel-good and witty. Lauren likes dogs, cake and show tunes and she is the vegetarian at your dinner party.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,679 reviews
November 13, 2024
WILDER IS FCKING PERFECT. He’s hot, a billionaire, he does acts of service & gift giving like nobody’s business & he’s obsessed with eating 🐱
I am sooooo feeling the holiday spirit after listening to this fantastic audio from Lauren Blakely!! I felt like I was reading a hallmark movie, but a rated R version ;)
This whole story starts as Fable (who we meet in a few other books) walks in on her bf cheating on her at a Christmas dinner hosted by her hot billionaire boss, Wilder, & his aunt. The same dinner where her sister gets proposed to. Schemes start scheming and BOOM, her & Wilder come up with a plan to fake date, but we all know how that goes. Especially when someone has fancied the other for a long time & now the two are in tight quarters heheh 😏
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Type: audio
Tropes:
Billionaire
Fake dating
Office romance
Single dad
Only one bed in the chalet
Holiday romance
I am sooooo feeling the holiday spirit after listening to this fantastic audio from Lauren Blakely!! I felt like I was reading a hallmark movie, but a rated R version ;)
This whole story starts as Fable (who we meet in a few other books) walks in on her bf cheating on her at a Christmas dinner hosted by her hot billionaire boss, Wilder, & his aunt. The same dinner where her sister gets proposed to. Schemes start scheming and BOOM, her & Wilder come up with a plan to fake date, but we all know how that goes. Especially when someone has fancied the other for a long time & now the two are in tight quarters heheh 😏
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Type: audio
Tropes:
Billionaire
Fake dating
Office romance
Single dad
Only one bed in the chalet
Holiday romance
November 18, 2024
Xmas is here!! I needed a little cute romance. And this was cute!! But it really didn't need to be 500 pages. It did get eh during some parts.
Fabel catches her boyfriend getting his jingle bells rocked by the cater at her bosses Thanksgiving dinner. She has to keep a happy face since her sister got proposed to and her ex his cousin.
Wilder her boss knows something is up since that night and when they talk about the wedding he doesn't wanna be set up by his aunt and he wants to show Fabel what a real man treats his girl.
And the romance is slow. It's super slow. Lots of pinning, and we should and shouldn't.
The Christmas games at the wedding were cute, nothing extreme. The big revel, but is it when about 70% of the family were in on the fake dating? I'm glad Wilder told his daughter about it she was a real gem. The third act break up didn't last long. Like few hours, lol.
No ow/Om drama, cheating (not between mains)Tiny drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶.5
Slowburnish
Pinning
Praise kink
Single father
Mentions of addiction (gambling)
Slight bondage
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
Fabel catches her boyfriend getting his jingle bells rocked by the cater at her bosses Thanksgiving dinner. She has to keep a happy face since her sister got proposed to and her ex his cousin.
Wilder her boss knows something is up since that night and when they talk about the wedding he doesn't wanna be set up by his aunt and he wants to show Fabel what a real man treats his girl.
And the romance is slow. It's super slow. Lots of pinning, and we should and shouldn't.
The Christmas games at the wedding were cute, nothing extreme. The big revel, but is it when about 70% of the family were in on the fake dating? I'm glad Wilder told his daughter about it she was a real gem. The third act break up didn't last long. Like few hours, lol.
No ow/Om drama, cheating (not between mains)Tiny drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶.5
Slowburnish
Pinning
Praise kink
Single father
Mentions of addiction (gambling)
Slight bondage
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
November 20, 2024
3.5 stars for this one. This cover is so cute. This book started out strong and was pulled in, but then this book went on and on. It's 498 pages. This book could've been much shorter. There was no news for it to be this long.
I thought Wilder and Fable were an adorable fake couple. Wilder and his daughter Mac were everything. I loved the example this book set with Wilders ex-wife. I envied this story but numerous times, I stopped and asked myself what percentage I was at. This one is basically a spicy Hallmark movie.
💠 feel good Christmas romance
⚛️ fake dating
💠 Christmas competition
⚛️ single dad
💠 office romance
I thought Wilder and Fable were an adorable fake couple. Wilder and his daughter Mac were everything. I loved the example this book set with Wilders ex-wife. I envied this story but numerous times, I stopped and asked myself what percentage I was at. This one is basically a spicy Hallmark movie.
💠 feel good Christmas romance
⚛️ fake dating
💠 Christmas competition
⚛️ single dad
💠 office romance
December 16, 2024
I love the dynamic of Wilder and Fable and felt it was on point.
But the story was too long. Focused on more on random moments such as her friends, football and her sisters upcoming marriage than actual Christmas stuff. Wasn't excited about this one.
But the story was too long. Focused on more on random moments such as her friends, football and her sisters upcoming marriage than actual Christmas stuff. Wasn't excited about this one.
November 17, 2024
DNF at 66% and I should have given up sooner. I just kept expecting this to improve and it didn't.
I was really looking forward to Fable and Wilder's book after the first two books in the Love and Hockey series (where Fable is a sidekick friend to the FMCs). But Lord, this was dull.
Wilder and Fable decide to fake date approximately ten seconds after Fable finds her then-boyfriend cheating on her at Thanksgiving. I'm extremely confused why Fable is even at Wilder's Thanksgiving to begin with because other than their once-per-month work meetings they previously have had very little involvement. Eh, okay. Regardless, they enter into a fake dating arrangement from Thanksgiving weekend to New Year's. Apparently this is consistent with their characters as no one even questions that they are seeing each other two days after Fable ends her several-month relationship.
It gets worse from there. The dialogue is over-the-top cheesy, possibly only to be outdone by the level of holiday cheesiness. The situations these two get into are highly unbelievable and in a normal corporate culture I'd be worried about a visit from HR. But don't worry, they are only fake dating.
I made it 2/3 of the way through this book and I never could figure out exactly why they liked each other. Basically insta-lust and it never progressed from there. Outside of Wilder spending his money on Fable, and Fable crafting something for Wilder and giving it to him, these two hardly have any interactions. I have no idea why Fable likes Wilder other than that he spends money on her. And I have no idea why Wilder likes Fable at all. Maybe because she increased the merch business for his football team? Regardless, they are fake dating, in case you didn't get that.
After a painfully long few weeks of fake dating in San Francisco, they take their fake dating on the road to some cutesy Christmas town. Enter the one bed trope and massive amounts of Christmas cheese. And more fake dating, in case you, dear reader, missed the fact that THIS IS JUST PRETEND AND IT IS JUST FAKE DATING.
They both have trust issues which, although not mentioned much, still somehow managed to seem overdone. But that's okay, because they are only fake dating.
I know this book has a ton of positive reviews but I absolutely could not get into it. My level of enjoyment negatively corresponds to the amount of times I had to read the words "fake" and "pretend".
I was really looking forward to Fable and Wilder's book after the first two books in the Love and Hockey series (where Fable is a sidekick friend to the FMCs). But Lord, this was dull.
Wilder and Fable decide to fake date approximately ten seconds after Fable finds her then-boyfriend cheating on her at Thanksgiving. I'm extremely confused why Fable is even at Wilder's Thanksgiving to begin with because other than their once-per-month work meetings they previously have had very little involvement. Eh, okay. Regardless, they enter into a fake dating arrangement from Thanksgiving weekend to New Year's. Apparently this is consistent with their characters as no one even questions that they are seeing each other two days after Fable ends her several-month relationship.
It gets worse from there. The dialogue is over-the-top cheesy, possibly only to be outdone by the level of holiday cheesiness. The situations these two get into are highly unbelievable and in a normal corporate culture I'd be worried about a visit from HR. But don't worry, they are only fake dating.
I made it 2/3 of the way through this book and I never could figure out exactly why they liked each other. Basically insta-lust and it never progressed from there. Outside of Wilder spending his money on Fable, and Fable crafting something for Wilder and giving it to him, these two hardly have any interactions. I have no idea why Fable likes Wilder other than that he spends money on her. And I have no idea why Wilder likes Fable at all. Maybe because she increased the merch business for his football team? Regardless, they are fake dating, in case you didn't get that.
After a painfully long few weeks of fake dating in San Francisco, they take their fake dating on the road to some cutesy Christmas town. Enter the one bed trope and massive amounts of Christmas cheese. And more fake dating, in case you, dear reader, missed the fact that THIS IS JUST PRETEND AND IT IS JUST FAKE DATING.
They both have trust issues which, although not mentioned much, still somehow managed to seem overdone. But that's okay, because they are only fake dating.
I know this book has a ton of positive reviews but I absolutely could not get into it. My level of enjoyment negatively corresponds to the amount of times I had to read the words "fake" and "pretend".
Shelved as 'dnf'
December 9, 2024DNF @ 12%
Quick Opinion: I know, I didn't get to my typical 30% before calling it quits. I got to them calling each other "little elf" and "sugar plum" and that was it for me. I like holiday theme romances and this had some great reviews, but this was too much. It was like it was trying too hard to be quirky and funny and I just found it...kind of cringey 😬 Not trying to be all bahumbug, so I'm just going to move on...
Quick Opinion: I know, I didn't get to my typical 30% before calling it quits. I got to them calling each other "little elf" and "sugar plum" and that was it for me. I like holiday theme romances and this had some great reviews, but this was too much. It was like it was trying too hard to be quirky and funny and I just found it...kind of cringey 😬 Not trying to be all bahumbug, so I'm just going to move on...
December 12, 2024
Talk about opening a book with a bang! Lauren Blakely’s humor and wit are on full display in this sexy fake dating holiday treat!
Wilder and Fable’s story is so freaking funny and sweet. Here’s what I loved:
The humor is done so well.
From Fable’s bed hogging and sleep talking to the crafty Christmas lingo interspersed throughout, I laughed out loud throughout the entire book.
Sexy, single dad who just happens to be a gift giving ninja and overall good guy. Yea, sign me up!
Did I mention it’s a fake relationship workplace romance? Yup! So freaking good. If you’re in the mood for a steamy Christmas treat, grab this one asap! Recommended.
I had a blast. If you’re looking
Wilder and Fable’s story is so freaking funny and sweet. Here’s what I loved:
The humor is done so well.
From Fable’s bed hogging and sleep talking to the crafty Christmas lingo interspersed throughout, I laughed out loud throughout the entire book.
Sexy, single dad who just happens to be a gift giving ninja and overall good guy. Yea, sign me up!
Did I mention it’s a fake relationship workplace romance? Yup! So freaking good. If you’re in the mood for a steamy Christmas treat, grab this one asap! Recommended.
I had a blast. If you’re looking
November 7, 2024
🎧𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐈𝐎𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖🎧
• 𝗠𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴
• 𝗙𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
• 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗴𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗸𝘀
• 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀
• 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝗱
• 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
• 𝗖𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝘁𝘆𝗽𝗼𝘀
• 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗮𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿
• 𝗞𝗻𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗼𝘀
I've loved a lot of Lauren's books and audiobooks, so I feel like I'm qualified to say this, but hands down, this was my favorite Lauren Blakely book! There is something just so special about Wilder and Fable and their adorable story full of mutual pinning and holiday festivities. Lauren did an incredible job, as always balancing the angst and humor!
Wilder is a sexy single dad who's only focus in life is making sure he's the best dad he can be. Although his giving heart does extend to the people he loves! I think the reason I love single dad romances so much isn't just because they're unbelievably swoony with their kids. But these men take care of their women. Making sure they're provided for. And Lauren captured that perfectly in Wilder. He took such good care of Fable without her having to ask for things; he just did it. He paid attention to her favorite things without her having to tell him. I loved his gruff exterior that loved up his very huge heart!
“You like making people’s dreams come true, don’t you?"
Lauren gave us the most adorable FMC, Fable. I felt like her name was so fitting for her personality. She was such a gentle soul. And I enjoyed getting to know her so much. The book opens with a VERY unfortunate event happening to Fable. But I can't say I was sad to see her kick her d**k of a boyfriend to the curb. And the way Wilder stepped in to show her exactly how a woman deserves to be treated with his big, beautiful heart, it all unfolded so perfectly!
The mutual pinning in the book made me FERAL! I loved every second of watching these two fake date with VERY real feelings! Lauren nailed it.
There were so many incredible side characters, but Mac, Wilder's daughter, was hands down the best side character. I loved watching her play matchmaker with these two! She was an adorable kid! And Lauren did such a wonderful job expressing Wilder and Mac's relationship! It was the sweetest! If you want to swoon over a single dad with a giving heart, this book is for you!!!
🎧𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐈𝐎𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖🎧
ℕ𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕓𝕪 𝕁𝕒𝕤𝕠𝕟 ℂ𝕝𝕒𝕣𝕜𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕊𝕒𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕙𝕒 𝔹𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕞𝕠𝕠𝕣
ᴡɪᴛʜ ꜱᴘᴇᴄɪᴀʟ ɢᴜᴇꜱᴛ ᴘᴇʀꜰᴏʀᴍᴀɴᴄᴇꜱ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴀɴᴅɪ ᴀʀɴᴅᴛ, ᴄᴏɴɴᴏʀ ᴄʀᴀɪꜱ, ᴠᴀɴᴇꜱꜱᴀ ᴇᴅᴡɪɴ, ᴀɴᴅɪ ᴇʟᴏɪꜱᴇ, ᴛᴇᴅᴅʏ ʜᴀᴍɪʟᴛᴏɴ, ᴇʀɪɴ ᴍᴀʟʟᴏɴ, ɴᴏᴀʜ ʙ. ᴘᴇʀᴇᴢ, ꜱʜᴀᴋɪʀᴀ ꜱʜᴜᴛᴇ, ᴀɴᴅ ʀʏᴀɴ ᴡᴇꜱᴛ
There could not have been a pick for Wilder and Samantha! Holy smokes, you two nailed this performance. Jason with his gruffy and growly voice playing a single dad pinning over a woman he's crushed on for years! SIGN ME UP EVERY TIME! Jason's performance was incredible! Samantha shined in this book as Fable. I absolutely loved her performance! And I say it every time, and I'll probably always say it because it's a favorite of mine when it comes to Samantha. But listening to her play gentle soul like Fable with her sweet voice was PERFECT!! I adore Samantha's voice. I love her in every role I've listened to her play! But there's just something about her playing such a sweet FMC like Fable. She brought Fable to LIFE! And you can never go wrong with Jason and Samantha together!
I adored all the special performances. Some from older characters and some from new! Lauren knows how to pick her cast!!
November 17, 2024
Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (0-5)
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧🌟 (0-5)
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✨ (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 (0-5) I bump up for public places/outdoor spaces and office desks.
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The full cast narration is a fun and fabulous performance! Samantha Brentmoor wins a gold shiny star for the tongue twister in chapter 6. And Jason Clarke makes the secret pining and steam extra scrumptious. They both bring out all the feels, almost wrecking me later in the book.
🤩 You had me at best man and maid of honor fake dating around holiday wedding festivities.
🤩 Captivating from start to finish!
🤩 Single dad, fake dating, & workplace (boss) tropes—yes, please!
🤩 Text chats and other interactions are laugh-out-loud hilarious.
🤩 Holy hot sexual tension.
🤩 Fake dating practice.
🤩 I just love both MCs and how they are both long-term relationship averse.
🤩 I especially love jealous, possessive, in-charge Wilder.
🤩 The bond between Fable & Mac (Wilder’s daughter) is festive and fun!
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I love a barely there but so intriguing teaser about the next book—“Maeve and Asher’s best friends-to-lovers marriage of convenience romance is coming in early 2025 in The Proposal Play.” Yay!
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧🌟 (0-5)
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✨ (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 (0-5) I bump up for public places/outdoor spaces and office desks.
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The full cast narration is a fun and fabulous performance! Samantha Brentmoor wins a gold shiny star for the tongue twister in chapter 6. And Jason Clarke makes the secret pining and steam extra scrumptious. They both bring out all the feels, almost wrecking me later in the book.
🤩 You had me at best man and maid of honor fake dating around holiday wedding festivities.
🤩 Captivating from start to finish!
🤩 Single dad, fake dating, & workplace (boss) tropes—yes, please!
🤩 Text chats and other interactions are laugh-out-loud hilarious.
🤩 Holy hot sexual tension.
🤩 Fake dating practice.
🤩 I just love both MCs and how they are both long-term relationship averse.
🤩 I especially love jealous, possessive, in-charge Wilder.
🤩 The bond between Fable & Mac (Wilder’s daughter) is festive and fun!
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I love a barely there but so intriguing teaser about the next book—“Maeve and Asher’s best friends-to-lovers marriage of convenience romance is coming in early 2025 in The Proposal Play.” Yay!
November 18, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️
The PERFECT holiday romance! Definitely recommend listening to the audiobook for this one — it was a 5 ⭐️
Tropes:
— Fake dating
— Workplace romance
— Billionaire romance
— Single dad
— Only one bed
— Revenge dating
3/5 🌶️
The PERFECT holiday romance! Definitely recommend listening to the audiobook for this one — it was a 5 ⭐️
Tropes:
— Fake dating
— Workplace romance
— Billionaire romance
— Single dad
— Only one bed
— Revenge dating
November 19, 2024
I can’t believe I read all 500 pages of this.
It started pretty good and then became the most boring and unrealistic fake dating I’ve ever read. Hard pass 🥱🥴
It started pretty good and then became the most boring and unrealistic fake dating I’ve ever read. Hard pass 🥱🥴
November 21, 2024
This definitely could’ve been a lot shorter, some parts I got bored and mayyy have skimmed through them
November 11, 2024
He looks like he wants to do something else entirely with his mouth. Because I’m learning something private about my boss. He really likes to eat.
A billionaire, single dad needs a date to his Christmas gathering and the merch designer for his football team just happens to be in need of some revenge dating. Throw in all the spice, snow, small towns, meddling family, past trauma, and Penguin the cat, well, this was simply *adorable*
One room. One bed. Five nights.
4.5 stars
I would like a Wilder, served up under my Christmas tree please. This was such a fun rom-com, and I’ve been waiting for their story since we met them both in The Boyfriend Goal! I loved both main characters and Mac, Wilder’s daughter! Wilder and Fable were great, they had scorching chemistry and one thing that I absolutely loved was Wilder’s relationship with Mac’s mom, his ex. I love that it was good, so many times I’ve read books where the other women in the stories, whether it’s just passing women or exes, are just written terribly, made to always look jealous and spiteful, so their relationship was refreshing.
Did I say the word love enough? lmao
“Because this”—I nod toward the window and the white flakes floating down—“ is a fantasy, but you are my real fantasy.”
Thank you to Lauren and her team for this ARC!
“It really doesn’t matter that you can’t sing.”
“Why is that?”
“Because you fuck like a rock star.”
A billionaire, single dad needs a date to his Christmas gathering and the merch designer for his football team just happens to be in need of some revenge dating. Throw in all the spice, snow, small towns, meddling family, past trauma, and Penguin the cat, well, this was simply *adorable*
One room. One bed. Five nights.
4.5 stars
I would like a Wilder, served up under my Christmas tree please. This was such a fun rom-com, and I’ve been waiting for their story since we met them both in The Boyfriend Goal! I loved both main characters and Mac, Wilder’s daughter! Wilder and Fable were great, they had scorching chemistry and one thing that I absolutely loved was Wilder’s relationship with Mac’s mom, his ex. I love that it was good, so many times I’ve read books where the other women in the stories, whether it’s just passing women or exes, are just written terribly, made to always look jealous and spiteful, so their relationship was refreshing.
Did I say the word love enough? lmao
“Because this”—I nod toward the window and the white flakes floating down—“ is a fantasy, but you are my real fantasy.”
Thank you to Lauren and her team for this ARC!
“It really doesn’t matter that you can’t sing.”
“Why is that?”
“Because you fuck like a rock star.”
December 14, 2024
First book read on my kindle and it did not disappoint 🤭
Wilder and Fable were so cute and sweet. Two characters that you instantly root for.
My only complaint was that it was a little too long. It didn't need to be close to 500 pages.
Wilder and Fable were so cute and sweet. Two characters that you instantly root for.
My only complaint was that it was a little too long. It didn't need to be close to 500 pages.
November 24, 2024
🎧🎧Audio & eBook Review🎧🎧
It’s quite possible that I have said this before, but this experience, was absolutely the best party I have had in my eyeballs & ears in quite some time. Like the best! NO LIES DETECTED! I mean, first of all, this full cast did an impeccable job on all of it! Even if it wasn’t a “full cast”, Samantha Brentmoor & Jason Clarke outperformed even themselves! Seriously, it was outrageous! Don’t even get me started on the story! HA! Just kidding … 😂😂😂
This is what Lauren Blakely was put on this earth to write. THIS STORY! She threw every single greatness she possesses as a writer at this story, and it was magic! I’ve been reading Lauren’s words for a long while now and although they haven’t all hit the OHMYGOD mark for me, I have always been thoroughly entertained. Okay, mostly. Like 99.7% of the time. *hangs head* Ya’ll know what I’m trying to say! I felt so happy while I listened to this story that I actually stopped it on purpose like 3 times so it wouldn’t end so fast. It was blissful entertainment, and the full cast performance was fireworks & sparklers! I know I’m being ridiculous right now, but it was just SO GREAT!
Listen, this isn’t some elaborate never before done storyline with tropes we’ve not seen ever before. This story has probably been written many times before, but, the magic is in the details! Also, duet full cast narration is just … wow! How lucky are we that she and the entire cast, are willing to put all that effort just to entertain us! I’m gobsmacked I tell ya! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻huuuuuuuuuuuge round of applause for all peoples involved in this magnificent romance fiction journey!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
NOTE: I was able to read and listen to this story and frankly, because of the full cast performance, I have to tell you that the party in my ears was uproarious and the cops might have been called *wink* Do with that information what you will! LOL
It’s quite possible that I have said this before, but this experience, was absolutely the best party I have had in my eyeballs & ears in quite some time. Like the best! NO LIES DETECTED! I mean, first of all, this full cast did an impeccable job on all of it! Even if it wasn’t a “full cast”, Samantha Brentmoor & Jason Clarke outperformed even themselves! Seriously, it was outrageous! Don’t even get me started on the story! HA! Just kidding … 😂😂😂
This is what Lauren Blakely was put on this earth to write. THIS STORY! She threw every single greatness she possesses as a writer at this story, and it was magic! I’ve been reading Lauren’s words for a long while now and although they haven’t all hit the OHMYGOD mark for me, I have always been thoroughly entertained. Okay, mostly. Like 99.7% of the time. *hangs head* Ya’ll know what I’m trying to say! I felt so happy while I listened to this story that I actually stopped it on purpose like 3 times so it wouldn’t end so fast. It was blissful entertainment, and the full cast performance was fireworks & sparklers! I know I’m being ridiculous right now, but it was just SO GREAT!
Listen, this isn’t some elaborate never before done storyline with tropes we’ve not seen ever before. This story has probably been written many times before, but, the magic is in the details! Also, duet full cast narration is just … wow! How lucky are we that she and the entire cast, are willing to put all that effort just to entertain us! I’m gobsmacked I tell ya! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻huuuuuuuuuuuge round of applause for all peoples involved in this magnificent romance fiction journey!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
NOTE: I was able to read and listen to this story and frankly, because of the full cast performance, I have to tell you that the party in my ears was uproarious and the cops might have been called *wink* Do with that information what you will! LOL
November 4, 2024
This was such a fun read! I had an absolute blast reading this one! I listened to this one on audio, which I don’t normally do and I loved it. There was a full cast of characters and they really brought the story to life.
There were some real laugh out loud moments that made this such a joy to read. I loved the characters and their interactions with each other. Their chemistry was perfect for this fake dating storyline.
Read this if you like:
🎄Office Romance
🎄Fake Dating
🎄Billionaire Single Dad
🎄Only One Bed
🎄Revenge Dating
🎄Holiday Rom Com
If you are looking for a fun, feel good romance to read during the holiday season this is it!
Thank you @hambright_pr for sending me a gifted copy of the book.
There were some real laugh out loud moments that made this such a joy to read. I loved the characters and their interactions with each other. Their chemistry was perfect for this fake dating storyline.
Read this if you like:
🎄Office Romance
🎄Fake Dating
🎄Billionaire Single Dad
🎄Only One Bed
🎄Revenge Dating
🎄Holiday Rom Com
If you are looking for a fun, feel good romance to read during the holiday season this is it!
Thank you @hambright_pr for sending me a gifted copy of the book.
November 6, 2024
Read if you like: office romance, fake dating, single dads, only-one-bed moments, holiday rom-coms, and second chances.
📚 My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Layne serves up a festive blend of romance, humor, and holiday cheer. When our heroine’s billionaire boss volunteers to be her holiday boyfriend, a series of cozy, comical, and delightfully heated moments ensue. Together, they’re determined to make her cheating ex jealous at every holiday party, but what starts as a holiday pact turns into something far more magical.
💼 The characters are a joy: she’s witty and relatable, navigating heartbreak with humor, while he’s a suave single dad hiding a softer side. Their fake relationship chemistry sizzles as they lean into each role—from stolen glances to flirtatious exchanges that hint at something more. It’s not long before their playful revenge turns into a spark that feels all too real.
🎄 The holiday setting adds a layer of charm, complete with a snowy week-long Christmas competition and festive traditions that bring them closer together. From decking the halls to cozy fireside moments, each scene radiates holiday spirit and romance. Their journey takes them from playful banter to emotional depth, highlighting their unexpected connection.
✍️ Lauren Layne’s storytelling delivers plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and swoon-worthy tension. Her writing captures all the joys of the season while building a romance that’s both heartfelt and humorous. Even the dramatic third-act breakup fits the rom-com trope perfectly, and the resolution is as satisfying as a holiday miracle.
🌟 My Favorite Holidate is an uplifting, feel-good holiday romance that’s perfect for the season. If you’re looking for a story with fake dating, holiday traditions, and love in unexpected places, this one’s sure to warm your heart.
📲 Question for everyone: What's your favorite holiday romance trope?
Hashtags: #BookReview #MyFavoriteHolidate #LaurenLayne #HolidayRomance #FakeDating #SingleDadRomance #RomCom #FeelGoodRomance #MustRead
📚 My Favorite Holidate by Lauren Layne serves up a festive blend of romance, humor, and holiday cheer. When our heroine’s billionaire boss volunteers to be her holiday boyfriend, a series of cozy, comical, and delightfully heated moments ensue. Together, they’re determined to make her cheating ex jealous at every holiday party, but what starts as a holiday pact turns into something far more magical.
💼 The characters are a joy: she’s witty and relatable, navigating heartbreak with humor, while he’s a suave single dad hiding a softer side. Their fake relationship chemistry sizzles as they lean into each role—from stolen glances to flirtatious exchanges that hint at something more. It’s not long before their playful revenge turns into a spark that feels all too real.
🎄 The holiday setting adds a layer of charm, complete with a snowy week-long Christmas competition and festive traditions that bring them closer together. From decking the halls to cozy fireside moments, each scene radiates holiday spirit and romance. Their journey takes them from playful banter to emotional depth, highlighting their unexpected connection.
✍️ Lauren Layne’s storytelling delivers plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and swoon-worthy tension. Her writing captures all the joys of the season while building a romance that’s both heartfelt and humorous. Even the dramatic third-act breakup fits the rom-com trope perfectly, and the resolution is as satisfying as a holiday miracle.
🌟 My Favorite Holidate is an uplifting, feel-good holiday romance that’s perfect for the season. If you’re looking for a story with fake dating, holiday traditions, and love in unexpected places, this one’s sure to warm your heart.
📲 Question for everyone: What's your favorite holiday romance trope?
Hashtags: #BookReview #MyFavoriteHolidate #LaurenLayne #HolidayRomance #FakeDating #SingleDadRomance #RomCom #FeelGoodRomance #MustRead
November 15, 2024
This was highly entertaining.
I love me a fake dating trope, the banter is usually off the charts.
Totally true in this one.
The audio is a full cast, which is always amazing!
Loved the holiday activities and the small town setting for this one.
Thank you so much to Lauren & Hambright PR for my ALC.
I love me a fake dating trope, the banter is usually off the charts.
Totally true in this one.
The audio is a full cast, which is always amazing!
Loved the holiday activities and the small town setting for this one.
Thank you so much to Lauren & Hambright PR for my ALC.
November 22, 2024
i thought this was a cute little novella. i loved it so much it didn’t even seem like it was a full length book
December 7, 2024
I wanted to like this book, but it sucked the soul right out of me. It was almost 500 pages of reinforcing a fake dating trope that came about in 10 seconds flat. Secretly pining, and insta-lust mixed with excessive holiday homages, and a hell of a lot of cheesy dialogue.
I was interested at first, but this just went on and on endlessly. Somehow, the dialogue got worse, to the point the ending and epilogue had me full-body cringing. I don't know what the intent of this book was, but it did not need to be dragged out this long for an overly sappy (and in the end, pointless) fake dating trope.
I was interested at first, but this just went on and on endlessly. Somehow, the dialogue got worse, to the point the ending and epilogue had me full-body cringing. I don't know what the intent of this book was, but it did not need to be dragged out this long for an overly sappy (and in the end, pointless) fake dating trope.
November 11, 2024
5 ⭐️ Christmas read!! Add it to your Christmas TBR now!!
& for my audiobook readers- 10/10 recommend this FULL CAST audiobook- featuring Teddy Hamilton!!
& for my audiobook readers- 10/10 recommend this FULL CAST audiobook- featuring Teddy Hamilton!!
November 2, 2024
✨ARC/ALC Review✨
I am so pleasantly surprised at how much I loved this. Holiday themed books can truly go either way - either it's overly cheesy and unrealistic OR it's a really cute story with a plot that stays in tact with great character development. This book was the latter.
I decided with this arc to listen to the full cast audio while also reading it on the kindle. Such a fun experience. So much so that I finished this in one day! It's safe to say I was thoroughly entertained and enjoying this playful and spicy read.
Plot:
I honestly loved the plot. Fabel catches her boyfriend cheating. They're both in her sisters bridal party and she really just wants him jealous, thinking she's moved on. Funnily enough, her super hot and rich boss, Wilder, ALSO happens to be in the bridal and more than willing to aid in project "make the ex pay".
This was so damn cute. Every single event that happened in this book had me giddy and excited to see what would happen. I was truly rooting for these two to be a success in their endeavors but also be a success in their feelings towards one another.
I loved the settings. I loved the pace. I loved the storylines with other characters.
Character:
Fabel is a relatable and fiery spitfire. She's down to earth, practical, awkward at times, and has such a beautiful nurturing side to her. I absolutely loved seeing her character growth. She had such funny comebacks and was always ready for Wilder's banter.
Wilder is the dream. He is a GIVER. And I mean that in so many ways. He spoils those he cares about, not for bragging rights but because he has a heart of gold. He loves his daughter and wants the best for her. I loved their relationship; it was just so wholesome. I really love how he was willing to do basically anything for Fabel. I just really melted for this man.
Romance and Spice:
I mean, both were written phenomenally. I loved the banter. I love chemistry between Fabel and Wilder. I loved their funny moments and their serious moments. I loved that they tried denying their feelings time and time again but ran at the chance to "practice" their fake dating skills. They were adorable and I found myself smiling down at my phone way too much.
Audio:
This audio was a blast. I don't think I've listened to many full cast books but I really enjoyed it. They each brought the characters to life so well.
Overall:
This is a really fun and cute book to get you in the Christmas spirit. It will have you gushing and blushing. You'll chuckle, you'll get secondhand embarrassment and you'll fall in love with these characters.
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Lauren Blakely for the arc/alc copy!!
I am so pleasantly surprised at how much I loved this. Holiday themed books can truly go either way - either it's overly cheesy and unrealistic OR it's a really cute story with a plot that stays in tact with great character development. This book was the latter.
I decided with this arc to listen to the full cast audio while also reading it on the kindle. Such a fun experience. So much so that I finished this in one day! It's safe to say I was thoroughly entertained and enjoying this playful and spicy read.
Plot:
I honestly loved the plot. Fabel catches her boyfriend cheating. They're both in her sisters bridal party and she really just wants him jealous, thinking she's moved on. Funnily enough, her super hot and rich boss, Wilder, ALSO happens to be in the bridal and more than willing to aid in project "make the ex pay".
This was so damn cute. Every single event that happened in this book had me giddy and excited to see what would happen. I was truly rooting for these two to be a success in their endeavors but also be a success in their feelings towards one another.
I loved the settings. I loved the pace. I loved the storylines with other characters.
Character:
Fabel is a relatable and fiery spitfire. She's down to earth, practical, awkward at times, and has such a beautiful nurturing side to her. I absolutely loved seeing her character growth. She had such funny comebacks and was always ready for Wilder's banter.
Wilder is the dream. He is a GIVER. And I mean that in so many ways. He spoils those he cares about, not for bragging rights but because he has a heart of gold. He loves his daughter and wants the best for her. I loved their relationship; it was just so wholesome. I really love how he was willing to do basically anything for Fabel. I just really melted for this man.
Romance and Spice:
I mean, both were written phenomenally. I loved the banter. I love chemistry between Fabel and Wilder. I loved their funny moments and their serious moments. I loved that they tried denying their feelings time and time again but ran at the chance to "practice" their fake dating skills. They were adorable and I found myself smiling down at my phone way too much.
Audio:
This audio was a blast. I don't think I've listened to many full cast books but I really enjoyed it. They each brought the characters to life so well.
Overall:
This is a really fun and cute book to get you in the Christmas spirit. It will have you gushing and blushing. You'll chuckle, you'll get secondhand embarrassment and you'll fall in love with these characters.
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Lauren Blakely for the arc/alc copy!!
December 17, 2024
4.5
-fake dating
-single dad
this was so good i love a fake dating book and all the christmas puns
-fake dating
-single dad
this was so good i love a fake dating book and all the christmas puns
November 18, 2024
3,5/6
November 26, 2024
This book was 10/10
Smut was unreal, hilarious banter between the characters and will definitely fulfill your holiday book fix!
HIGHLY recommend the audiobook, full cast!
Smut was unreal, hilarious banter between the characters and will definitely fulfill your holiday book fix!
HIGHLY recommend the audiobook, full cast!
November 27, 2024
I loved everything about this book. Wilder and Fable are absolutely perfect for each other.
I listened and read the book, and the audio was amazing. The full cast made the book so much more enjoyable, and I'll definitely be looking for more audio like this.
I am obsessed with all things fake dating, but this definitely didn't feel fake for very long!! The chemistry between Wilder and Fable was off the charts and I loved every second of it.
I loved how festive this book was. There were so many christmassy moments and it made me all warm and fuzzy inside!!
The perfect feel good festive book with all the feels and all the spice.
I listened and read the book, and the audio was amazing. The full cast made the book so much more enjoyable, and I'll definitely be looking for more audio like this.
I am obsessed with all things fake dating, but this definitely didn't feel fake for very long!! The chemistry between Wilder and Fable was off the charts and I loved every second of it.
I loved how festive this book was. There were so many christmassy moments and it made me all warm and fuzzy inside!!
The perfect feel good festive book with all the feels and all the spice.
November 14, 2024
I love Lauren’s books and My Favorite Holidate is no exception! This was a fun fake dating, billionaire boss romance that will get you in the holiday mood! I 100% recommend listening to the audio if you can; it is a full cast narration and that really brings it to life!
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quantity of spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Quality of spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*There were 5.5 spicy scenes in this book. I’ve included the pages, chapter, & percentage at the bottom of this review.*
Fable hasn’t had the greatest luck with men and that point is driven home in the very beginning when she walks in on her asshole boyfriend, Brady, cheating on her with the caterer at a Friendsgiving get together. Immediately after, her sister, Charlotte, gets engaged and Fable is asked to be the MOH.. while her now ex bf is asked to be a groomsman at the very quickly planned destination wedding.
Wilder’s life doesn’t really account for a relationship and he’s got a ton of trust issues due to his father, but when his aunt continuously tries to set him up on dates, he’s ready to get her off his back. Fable and Wilder agree to be each other’s fake dates to Leo and Charlotte’s holiday wedding.
These two are determined to be the best fake daters there ever was, which leads to lots of “practicing”. Practice turns to real, and that means real feelings get involved. But can both of them get over their individual father issues to make it work?
Some of my favorite things about this book:
💕 Wilder’s daughter, Mac, was such a cute character. She had so many characteristics of Wilder’s, while also being her own snarky and intelligent self. I love that she knew about the fake relationship from the jump.
💕 I know this is a small thing but the different store names mentioned throughout the book were so creative! Lauren really put a fun touch on that.
💕 Getting to see Josie/Wes’ and Everly/Max’s relationship progression and just in general that they were there to help Fable throughout the book.
Some things I personally could have done without:
🎄 The over abundant use of Christmas terms during the sex scenes. It was cute at first but then it got to be too much.
🎄 Brady having a hand in how the relationship was revealed.
🎄 Wilder’s gift in the epilogue. I think it somewhat undermines Fable’s accomplishment of opening her own store.
All in all, this was a cute holiday read and will get you ready for the season!! 🥰
🌶️ Spicy Scenes 🌶️
1. Ch 21 Pg 189 40%
2. Ch 27 Pg 253 55%
3. Ch 32 Pg 300 66%
4. Ch 36 Pg 333 73%
5. Ch 41 Pg 370 81%
5.5 Ch 52 Pg 435 95%
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quantity of spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Quality of spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*There were 5.5 spicy scenes in this book. I’ve included the pages, chapter, & percentage at the bottom of this review.*
Fable hasn’t had the greatest luck with men and that point is driven home in the very beginning when she walks in on her asshole boyfriend, Brady, cheating on her with the caterer at a Friendsgiving get together. Immediately after, her sister, Charlotte, gets engaged and Fable is asked to be the MOH.. while her now ex bf is asked to be a groomsman at the very quickly planned destination wedding.
Wilder’s life doesn’t really account for a relationship and he’s got a ton of trust issues due to his father, but when his aunt continuously tries to set him up on dates, he’s ready to get her off his back. Fable and Wilder agree to be each other’s fake dates to Leo and Charlotte’s holiday wedding.
These two are determined to be the best fake daters there ever was, which leads to lots of “practicing”. Practice turns to real, and that means real feelings get involved. But can both of them get over their individual father issues to make it work?
Some of my favorite things about this book:
💕 Wilder’s daughter, Mac, was such a cute character. She had so many characteristics of Wilder’s, while also being her own snarky and intelligent self. I love that she knew about the fake relationship from the jump.
💕 I know this is a small thing but the different store names mentioned throughout the book were so creative! Lauren really put a fun touch on that.
💕 Getting to see Josie/Wes’ and Everly/Max’s relationship progression and just in general that they were there to help Fable throughout the book.
Some things I personally could have done without:
🎄 The over abundant use of Christmas terms during the sex scenes. It was cute at first but then it got to be too much.
🎄 Brady having a hand in how the relationship was revealed.
🎄 Wilder’s gift in the epilogue. I think it somewhat undermines Fable’s accomplishment of opening her own store.
All in all, this was a cute holiday read and will get you ready for the season!! 🥰
🌶️ Spicy Scenes 🌶️
1. Ch 21 Pg 189 40%
2. Ch 27 Pg 253 55%
3. Ch 32 Pg 300 66%
4. Ch 36 Pg 333 73%
5. Ch 41 Pg 370 81%
5.5 Ch 52 Pg 435 95%
November 12, 2024
Book Review
My Favourite Holidate by Lauren Blakely
What Its Got
🎁Christmas competition (snowball fights, sledding, cookie decorating)
🎁Billionaire romance
🎁Sports romance (football)
🎁Travel- think ski town/Christmas village, complete with Mayor and Police Chief, small quaint pubs and cafes where everyone knows everyones business
🎁Strong friend squad
🎁Sisters, cousins, aunts, moms, dads- everyone is here (Leo, Rachel, Bibi, Mac)
🎁Family drama ( expected during the holidays)
🎁Single dad
🎁Pets- Penguin the cat
🎁Fake dating
🎁Forced proximity-only one bed (but its in a chalet soo….. worth it)
🎁Office Romance
Main Characters (loved these unique names)
Fable- she is a creative, artistic, crafty, football fan with tight relationships with her sister and friends
Wilder- he is a successful , organized, stylish, gift giver, altruistic, foodie and super dad who has a healthy coparenting relationship with his ex
Mac- precocious daughter of Wilder, she has a keen insight into adult relationships, she is creative and loving and fiercely independent
What I liked
❄️Shenanigans- the games, the bets and competitive spirit
🔥🍆Steam and spice
🎄Holidays puns
🤣Love the witty humour and banter between our MCs
❤️Adored Wilder- his goal of proving to Fable that she deserves to be treated with respect and showered with love, attention and gifts- felt soo right
Overall
A perfect holiday rom com to snuggle up with this season
Recommend pairing with spiked cocoa, shortbread and a blanket
Thanks to the author for my digital copy in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
My Favourite Holidate by Lauren Blakely
What Its Got
🎁Christmas competition (snowball fights, sledding, cookie decorating)
🎁Billionaire romance
🎁Sports romance (football)
🎁Travel- think ski town/Christmas village, complete with Mayor and Police Chief, small quaint pubs and cafes where everyone knows everyones business
🎁Strong friend squad
🎁Sisters, cousins, aunts, moms, dads- everyone is here (Leo, Rachel, Bibi, Mac)
🎁Family drama ( expected during the holidays)
🎁Single dad
🎁Pets- Penguin the cat
🎁Fake dating
🎁Forced proximity-only one bed (but its in a chalet soo….. worth it)
🎁Office Romance
Main Characters (loved these unique names)
Fable- she is a creative, artistic, crafty, football fan with tight relationships with her sister and friends
Wilder- he is a successful , organized, stylish, gift giver, altruistic, foodie and super dad who has a healthy coparenting relationship with his ex
Mac- precocious daughter of Wilder, she has a keen insight into adult relationships, she is creative and loving and fiercely independent
What I liked
❄️Shenanigans- the games, the bets and competitive spirit
🔥🍆Steam and spice
🎄Holidays puns
🤣Love the witty humour and banter between our MCs
❤️Adored Wilder- his goal of proving to Fable that she deserves to be treated with respect and showered with love, attention and gifts- felt soo right
Overall
A perfect holiday rom com to snuggle up with this season
Recommend pairing with spiked cocoa, shortbread and a blanket
Thanks to the author for my digital copy in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
November 18, 2024
We all need a Wilder in our life. He is the sexy billionaire who knows how to treat a woman. Wilder's actions are sure to make anyone swoon and leave a lasting impression. His ability to balance wealth with genuine affection sets him apart, making him the ultimate dream man.
Here is what to expect
Billionaire
Fake Dating
Single Dad
Office Romance
Holiday Romance
One Bed
What is a girl to do, when you catch your boyfriend cheating on you on the day your sister gets engaged, and will be in the wedding party? Well, you fake date your billionaire boss, Wilder. Wilder jumps at the chance. For one he has always been attracted to Fable and two his Aunt will try and stop setting him up.
"My Favorite Holidate" is an adorable and humorous holiday romance that perfectly blends laughter with a touch of spice. The playful snowball fight scenes and Fable's amusing bed-hogging antics add a delightful charm to the story. The witty humor is expertly crafted, making it an enjoyable read that captures the essence of the holiday spirit while keeping readers entertained with its lighthearted moments.
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