affiliate links included
When I saw the synopsis for the story it sounded so good I had to review it. I love it when I find a book that is a little different, even though it has a familiar trope like enemies to lovers and second chance romance.
This is the first time I’ve read this author, so you can check out my thoughts below on this upcoming publication.
Four Steps to the Perfect Fake Date by Lilian Monroe
Publisher : Montlake
Pub Date: March 11, 2025
ISBN-13 : 978-1662526565
SYNOPSIS:
A notorious rule follower, the old Daphne Davis could do no wrong. But lately she can’t get anything right.
Jilted by her ex, ousted from her home, and laid off from her job, Daphne retreats to her little hometown, Fernley Island. But even there, she feels out of sync. So, bailing on her own sister’s engagement party, she suddenly embraces a brand-new philosophy: no more goody-two-shoes.
Unfortunately, Daphne’s new mantra lands her squarely in the headlights―literally―of her high school nemesis, Calvin Flint. No longer a scrawny jerk, he’s Fernley’s acting sheriff, filling out his uniform waaay better than he ought to.
He’s also Daphne’s new boss.
As Daphne balances the books after a department scandal, a series of mishaps throws her and Calvin together. The sparks that fly take them both by surprise. But will a fake dating scheme and quest for a stolen heirloom ruin their chance at something real?
Four Steps to the Perfect Fake Date by Lilian Monroe Review
I have to say I really enjoyed this book and actually shed a few tears going through it. There’s a lot of unresolved trauma between the two main characters and you can feel that hate/love going on as the story builds.
Both characters have past issues with their families and a lot to overcome. I think that added so much to the depth of writing and storytelling the author delivers. She touches on a lot of sensitive topics especially surrounding self-esteem and she also includes characters that help balance out the main characters.
Some of the secondary characters are a riot and bring the levity that we need to balance everything else. The plot is a little complex and makes for an exciting story that I really couldn’t stop reading. It was touching and emotional in many places and I love the fact that the male main character has been holding a torch for her since high school.
Monroe brings an epilogue that is a wonderful addition to round out the story. She pours in the emotion and passion we need for a memorable read. I really loved Four Steps to the Perfect Fake Date and can’t wait to read this author again.
PS: Three cheers for a cover that shows real people and not graphic art!!
5 STARS!!
affiliate links included Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.