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Vancouver Storm #2
The Fake Out
The best way to get back at my horrible ex? Fake date Rory Miller--my ex's rival, the top scorer in pro hockey, and the arrogant, flirtatious hockey player I tutored in high school.
Faking it is fun and addictive, though, and beneath the bad boy swagger, Rory’s sweet, funny, and protective.
He teaches me to skate and spends way too much money on me.
He sleeps in my bed and convinces me to break my just-one-time hookup rule.
He kisses me like it’s real.
And now I wonder if Rory was ever faking it to begin with.
The Fake Out is a pro hockey fake dating romance. It is the second book in the Vancouver Storm series but can be read as a standalone.
Fake datingEx’s rivalPro hockeyGolden retriever heroBoy obsessedForced proximity
Faking it is fun and addictive, though, and beneath the bad boy swagger, Rory’s sweet, funny, and protective.
He teaches me to skate and spends way too much money on me.
He sleeps in my bed and convinces me to break my just-one-time hookup rule.
He kisses me like it’s real.
And now I wonder if Rory was ever faking it to begin with.
The Fake Out is a pro hockey fake dating romance. It is the second book in the Vancouver Storm series but can be read as a standalone.
Fake datingEx’s rivalPro hockeyGolden retriever heroBoy obsessedForced proximity
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2023
About the author
Stephanie Archer
10 books8,049 followersStephanie writes spicy, hilarious rom-coms. Her books feature sharp banter, stubborn women, lots of laughs, and guaranteed HEA’s. She lives in Vancouver, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 8,995 reviews
January 13, 2024
i was scratching my head on how to rate this one because it wasn’t incredibly unique or the MOST deeply emotional
but there isn’t a single thing i’d change about this book. it was sexy, fun, romantic, and the characters were really likable. i’ve struck out with soooo many sports romance from my favorite authors lately. so it’s refreshing to read something so great by an author i haven’t previously had any luck with.
definitely check this out if you’re looking for a slump buster 🫶🏻
but there isn’t a single thing i’d change about this book. it was sexy, fun, romantic, and the characters were really likable. i’ve struck out with soooo many sports romance from my favorite authors lately. so it’s refreshing to read something so great by an author i haven’t previously had any luck with.
definitely check this out if you’re looking for a slump buster 🫶🏻
October 8, 2024
5 stars
This book was an absolute delight! It was so wholesome and cute! Every moment was brimming with cuteness, and i found myself living for each and every adorable interaction. I was craving a good sweet romance, and this one delivered perfectly. I'm in love with these characters. 🥺🎀🧸
⌞ Rory Miller & Hazel Hartley ⌝ ✴︎˚｡⋆
Rory and Hazel are perfect for each other! their relationship was sweet, healthy, and full of the kind of warmth that makes you root for them. They teased each other in the most adorable ways, showed they cared deeply, and were refreshingly honest about everything. also, the smut? 🤭 the dirty talking? jejshshsj
⌗ –
Rory's love language is all about giving gifts and making things right. He absolutely loved spoiling Hazel and never hesitated to show how much he cared. even though he kept his feelings to himself when they were in high school because she was dating someone else, the moment he saw her again, it was game over for everyone else. He's the ultimate green flag, completely head over heels for Hazel. His compliments, the way he hyped her up, and his constant support were so wholesome. 🤭
⌗ –
⌗ –
Hazel was such a well-written character. The way her quirks and concerns were portrayed felt so genuine. she was truly amazing and matched Rory's energy perfectly, giving him just as much support as he gave her. She was the perfect balance to Rory, and i liked her a lot 💗
⌗ –
The parents' relationship and Rory's constant struggle with the spotlight left me in awe. It was clear how selfless he was, especially when he saw hockey as a team effort instead of a spotlight for himself. His character development was great, showing how he wanted to be better and happier <3
“My dad never gave a shit about me playing hockey. It didn’t matter that I played professionally or broke records.”
“I didn’t want you to think I didn’t care,” he says quietly.”
I thought his dad might be bad, but those last chapters were so emotional. knowing his parents' perspective made it clear they were doing their best to show love and support in their own way. his dad was grumpy and overbearing, but his backstory with his own father explained so much. and his mom's regrets about their strained relationship made sense. I just loved that they reconciled in the end and are going on dates and therapy. His father genuinely loved his mother.
• I'm a bit puzzled about Hayden and Darcy tho. like, her and Kit have been together for seven years, and he's genuinely a nice person. But i know the author might do something to make him seem bad just for the sake of the couple.
This book was an absolute delight! It was so wholesome and cute! Every moment was brimming with cuteness, and i found myself living for each and every adorable interaction. I was craving a good sweet romance, and this one delivered perfectly. I'm in love with these characters. 🥺🎀🧸
“You’re so beautiful that it makes my chest hurt.”
⌞ Rory Miller & Hazel Hartley ⌝ ✴︎˚｡⋆
Rory and Hazel are perfect for each other! their relationship was sweet, healthy, and full of the kind of warmth that makes you root for them. They teased each other in the most adorable ways, showed they cared deeply, and were refreshingly honest about everything. also, the smut? 🤭 the dirty talking? jejshshsj
⌗ –
“You’re so patient.”
“You’re worth the wait.”
Rory's love language is all about giving gifts and making things right. He absolutely loved spoiling Hazel and never hesitated to show how much he cared. even though he kept his feelings to himself when they were in high school because she was dating someone else, the moment he saw her again, it was game over for everyone else. He's the ultimate green flag, completely head over heels for Hazel. His compliments, the way he hyped her up, and his constant support were so wholesome. 🤭
⌗ –
“There’s a beat where we glance at each other again before looking away. He’s flushing, I think."– ugh
⌗ –
“My feelings for her are so fucking obvious it’s not even funny.”– 🤌🏻🥺
Hazel was such a well-written character. The way her quirks and concerns were portrayed felt so genuine. she was truly amazing and matched Rory's energy perfectly, giving him just as much support as he gave her. She was the perfect balance to Rory, and i liked her a lot 💗
⌗ –
“Can I tell you something?”
“I love you”
The parents' relationship and Rory's constant struggle with the spotlight left me in awe. It was clear how selfless he was, especially when he saw hockey as a team effort instead of a spotlight for himself. His character development was great, showing how he wanted to be better and happier <3
“My dad never gave a shit about me playing hockey. It didn’t matter that I played professionally or broke records.”
“I didn’t want you to think I didn’t care,” he says quietly.”
I thought his dad might be bad, but those last chapters were so emotional. knowing his parents' perspective made it clear they were doing their best to show love and support in their own way. his dad was grumpy and overbearing, but his backstory with his own father explained so much. and his mom's regrets about their strained relationship made sense. I just loved that they reconciled in the end and are going on dates and therapy. His father genuinely loved his mother.
• I'm a bit puzzled about Hayden and Darcy tho. like, her and Kit have been together for seven years, and he's genuinely a nice person. But i know the author might do something to make him seem bad just for the sake of the couple.
December 26, 2023
writing: fine | plot: she had RANGE–from body positivity to backdoor activities in the same chapter go off 😂 | ending: woah nelly | spice: I have qs but I don't need answers
my opinion
FINALLY. After dnf-ing no less than 10 hockey romances, I found what that I enjoyed and powered through in two late ass nights (ask me how fked my sleep schedule is now). I found The Wrong Mr. Right from this author to be meh, which is why I initially avoided this one. Regrets. The Fake Out was MUCH stronger—from the writing, to the plotting, to the character development.
Now, let me make this clear: my ratings for romance are 99% based off vibes because in my irrelevant opinion, the purpose of romcoms is to bring vibes. Just make my lil fidget spinner heart feel something and I'm happy to overlook the low-lights of this book: VERY questionable spice, calling her a fire-breathing dragon, using the f-word 273 times (I love a good f-bomb, but the book is only 438 pages so let's relax), and a very accelerated timeline in the last third that would give a military couple a run for their money.
Now the positives: fun, flirty, sarcastic banter (I lol'd internally). LOVED the body positivity/inclusivity talk. Very realistically portrayed. Next, I liked Rory... and that's saying a lot because I'd chalk up 9/10 of those dnfs to the MMC's pov giving me the ick. Rory was cocky, yes, but not in an angry way. When he asked an unimpressed Hazel if she wanted an autograph after scoring, I smiled like a loser because THAT'S the type of funny, cocky shit I like. She also humanized him with his daddy issues (lol) and he was nice to others. You would think that's bare minimum, but trust me, some of these MMCs are one dry spell away from becoming an incel.
Anyways. Ineth conclusioneth *posh accent*, is this perfect? No. But is it fun? Yes. Looking forward to Hayden's story next!!!!
pros & cons
pros: loved the banter, great body positivity/inclusivity rep, bingeable, Rory💖, both characters had well flushed out backgrounds, just good vibes
cons: some of the spicy scenes were highly out of pocket, A LOT of f-bombs (and that's saying something because I swear like a sailor), a bit corny but it's romcom so yolo (yes I still say yolo)
___
Check out my YouTube and my TikTok
my opinion
FINALLY. After dnf-ing no less than 10 hockey romances, I found what that I enjoyed and powered through in two late ass nights (ask me how fked my sleep schedule is now). I found The Wrong Mr. Right from this author to be meh, which is why I initially avoided this one. Regrets. The Fake Out was MUCH stronger—from the writing, to the plotting, to the character development.
Now, let me make this clear: my ratings for romance are 99% based off vibes because in my irrelevant opinion, the purpose of romcoms is to bring vibes. Just make my lil fidget spinner heart feel something and I'm happy to overlook the low-lights of this book: VERY questionable spice, calling her a fire-breathing dragon, using the f-word 273 times (I love a good f-bomb, but the book is only 438 pages so let's relax), and a very accelerated timeline in the last third that would give a military couple a run for their money.
Now the positives: fun, flirty, sarcastic banter (I lol'd internally). LOVED the body positivity/inclusivity talk. Very realistically portrayed. Next, I liked Rory... and that's saying a lot because I'd chalk up 9/10 of those dnfs to the MMC's pov giving me the ick. Rory was cocky, yes, but not in an angry way. When he asked an unimpressed Hazel if she wanted an autograph after scoring, I smiled like a loser because THAT'S the type of funny, cocky shit I like. She also humanized him with his daddy issues (lol) and he was nice to others. You would think that's bare minimum, but trust me, some of these MMCs are one dry spell away from becoming an incel.
Anyways. Ineth conclusioneth *posh accent*, is this perfect? No. But is it fun? Yes. Looking forward to Hayden's story next!!!!
pros & cons
pros: loved the banter, great body positivity/inclusivity rep, bingeable, Rory💖, both characters had well flushed out backgrounds, just good vibes
cons: some of the spicy scenes were highly out of pocket, A LOT of f-bombs (and that's saying something because I swear like a sailor), a bit corny but it's romcom so yolo (yes I still say yolo)
___
Check out my YouTube and my TikTok
December 11, 2023
loved doing br with my pookie Iqra 💗
i’m too lazy for a review🤡 just go read this🫵🏼 trust me💋 and go read this right now 🫦💗
If my heart is a house, Rory now lives there.
“I’m so proud of you,” she says, and I memorize this moment to keep with me forever, this quiet stillness with someone I never thought I’d have.
“It’s like we’re in a snow globe,” I whisper, and she smiles as I lean down to kiss her.
“You’re my tiny fire-breathing dragon.”
~~~~~
TAKE MY MONEY 💰💰💰💰💰🤗🤗🤗
GIVE THIS TO ME RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!❗️❗️❗️❗️👹👹👹👹
i’m too lazy for a review🤡 just go read this🫵🏼 trust me💋 and go read this right now 🫦💗
If my heart is a house, Rory now lives there.
“I’m so proud of you,” she says, and I memorize this moment to keep with me forever, this quiet stillness with someone I never thought I’d have.
“It’s like we’re in a snow globe,” I whisper, and she smiles as I lean down to kiss her.
“You’re my tiny fire-breathing dragon.”
~~~~~
TAKE MY MONEY 💰💰💰💰💰🤗🤗🤗
GIVE THIS TO ME RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!❗️❗️❗️❗️👹👹👹👹
June 1, 2024
4.5 stars*
i love to have fun!!!!!!
i love to have fun!!!!!!
December 13, 2023
PLS IF YOU TAKE ANYTHING AWAY FROM MY BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS, LET IT BE THE FAKE OUT AND STEPHANIE ARCHER.
i can’t even put into words how much i loved this book and it gave EVERYTHING.
emotionally intelligent characters who both go through personal development and help each other and are just so lovable and perfect in their flaws? check.
absolutely, laugh out loud funny, witty, banter that had me giggling and swinging my feet? check.
the most delicious build up of chemistry that had me grinning and tearing through the pages to finally see them together? check.
the most adorable, sweet, obsessed, incredible love? check.
simply perfect. just trust me and read it. rory miller is without a doubt her best hero. he was cocky and funny but also the most supportive and just so so hot!!!! and hazel!!! i just want to be a grant sister so bad. i love her and she is for the mean, funny girls.
i can’t even put into words how much i loved this book and it gave EVERYTHING.
emotionally intelligent characters who both go through personal development and help each other and are just so lovable and perfect in their flaws? check.
absolutely, laugh out loud funny, witty, banter that had me giggling and swinging my feet? check.
the most delicious build up of chemistry that had me grinning and tearing through the pages to finally see them together? check.
the most adorable, sweet, obsessed, incredible love? check.
simply perfect. just trust me and read it. rory miller is without a doubt her best hero. he was cocky and funny but also the most supportive and just so so hot!!!! and hazel!!! i just want to be a grant sister so bad. i love her and she is for the mean, funny girls.
January 2, 2024
I love hockey romance.
December 30, 2023
BR w My precious pookie 💗🌸💓
ೃ⁀➷ 4.5 stars *ੈ✩‧₊˚
This book, these characters, and this universe will forever live in my head rent-free. The way I fell in love w the side characters as much as the MCs hello??!
Rory has the softest heart ugh while reading I would melttttt bc he would say the most adorable things. He’s husband material 1000%. This guy deserves all the happiness in the world 🥹🥹
the way he immediately recognised when he’s fucked up or done something to upset Hazel and would do the most to make up for it even after he’s apologised 😩 This is the one thing I loved the most about him bc he never gave their arguments any room to grow or cause them to break up/stop talking to each other. The communication was there and it was beautiful 🤧💗
Hazel has my hearttt- no bc when she was falling for him but didn’t realise it, she would say the most wholesome things in her inner monologue for him and I couldn’t stop smiling bc she was so gone for him as he was for her and I loveedddd every second of it.
Hazel and Pippa's loving relationship as siblings made me incredibly happyyyyy. One of the best things abt this book truly.
I also rlly liked how the parents weren’t made out to be the villains and were shown as complex characters. It allowed room for every character to grow and forgive which I love to see in books. It gave more depth to the MCs and now I cannot get over hm I’m in love w this author's writing style.
Also separate mention for the smut in this book bc 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨 RoryHazel ate me up w their chemistry. The mouth on this man 🫦 and the way Hazel gave back as good as she got 💅
Cannot wait to rinse this author’s backlist when I need a good pick me up 🤭💗
𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲:
Hayden and Darcy’s story seems interesting but the friends-to-lovers trope and I have a rocky history 😭 I’m still hopeful this author’s writing style might change that for me tho 🤞🤞🤞
ೃ⁀➷ 4.5 stars *ੈ✩‧₊˚
This book, these characters, and this universe will forever live in my head rent-free. The way I fell in love w the side characters as much as the MCs hello??!
Rory has the softest heart ugh while reading I would melttttt bc he would say the most adorable things. He’s husband material 1000%. This guy deserves all the happiness in the world 🥹🥹
the way he immediately recognised when he’s fucked up or done something to upset Hazel and would do the most to make up for it even after he’s apologised 😩 This is the one thing I loved the most about him bc he never gave their arguments any room to grow or cause them to break up/stop talking to each other. The communication was there and it was beautiful 🤧💗
Hazel has my hearttt- no bc when she was falling for him but didn’t realise it, she would say the most wholesome things in her inner monologue for him and I couldn’t stop smiling bc she was so gone for him as he was for her and I loveedddd every second of it.
Hazel and Pippa's loving relationship as siblings made me incredibly happyyyyy. One of the best things abt this book truly.
I also rlly liked how the parents weren’t made out to be the villains and were shown as complex characters. It allowed room for every character to grow and forgive which I love to see in books. It gave more depth to the MCs and now I cannot get over hm I’m in love w this author's writing style.
Also separate mention for the smut in this book bc 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨 RoryHazel ate me up w their chemistry. The mouth on this man 🫦 and the way Hazel gave back as good as she got 💅
Cannot wait to rinse this author’s backlist when I need a good pick me up 🤭💗
𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲:
Hayden and Darcy’s story seems interesting but the friends-to-lovers trope and I have a rocky history 😭 I’m still hopeful this author’s writing style might change that for me tho 🤞🤞🤞
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 15, 2024DNF at 43%. I like the hero but I’m not vibing with the writing at all. I’m also in the mood for something that’s more of a slow burn. This just isn’t doing it for me right now. Their romance just didn’t feel real to me. It was mainly lust based.
I also just think this author is not for me. This is the second book that I dnf by her 😭.
I also just think this author is not for me. This is the second book that I dnf by her 😭.
May 29, 2024
4.5 Skating Lesson Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Giddy! That is how this book makes you feel! Utterly and completely GIDDY! It had me kicking and squealing, giggling like a schoolgirl with a crush and just overall shaking my legs at how cute and awesome it was.
I was elated at the events that happened and loved how things unfurled. The two flirting with each other was excellent and the way these two migrated from fake to not fake was TEXTBOOK PERFECTION on how to pull off that trope FANTASTICALLY! (Mostly because the lines blurred so well you weren't sure when they realised this is no longer fake between them - because it was WELL BEFORE they told each other).
Hazel is the team's physiotherapist and older sister of Piper, who was the main character in Behind the Net. Hazel has a dilemma, her cheating ex-boyfriend has just been traded into the hockey team she works for and she is assigned as his physiotherapist. He is also the reason Hazel has closed off her heart to any professional sports player - because you can't get hurt if you never open yourself to it in the first place. Rory has been secretly pining after Hazel since she was his math tutor in high school, so to keep her Ex at bay, the two strike up a fake relationship as a way to hinder any advances that her ex might make.
This book does interpersonal relationships really well. Especially how difficult it can be to maintain and work on those relationships. Hazel's relationship with her mother is quite strained as her mother is battling with a body image problem. She was a ballerina that hasn't been able to dance for a while, so is super critical of how she looks. As a result, she doesn't allow herself to try any experiences because of how her body would be perceived. This goes against everything Hazel is trying to achieve with her dream of opening a body-positive yoga studio.
Rory has a strained relationship with both his parents. He believes that choosing hockey and staying with his dad forced his mom away. However, with age, it's become clear that his dad seems to love hockey and only hockey. Being Rory's agent he pushes Rory in directions that don't make him happy anymore causing conflict between the two.
Hazel and Rory's relationship was absolutely beautiful because the two of them bring out the best in each other. Rory makes Hazel see that she can do anything. She can make her dreams a reality and her presence makes people's lives better. He helps her overcome her fear of love and the underlying trauma her ex caused and helps her see how amazing she is. Likewise Hazel makes Rory find his love for hockey again. At the start of the book, has lost touch with what the game means to him. Due to his father's influence, he is just going through the motions and being who he thinks his father wants him to be. But Hazel changes his perspective, opens his heart to collaboration and teamwork and gives him the chance to be his own type of role model allowing him to balance life and hockey in a way his parents never managed to do when he was growing up.
The spice in this was also fun! Rory makes Hazel feel incredibly sexy by sending her a shit ton of lingerie which the two of and enjoy through various phone exchanges and spicy scenes.
Tropes in this include:
▶Enemies Hate to Love
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Hockey Romance
▶ Found Family
▶ Golden Retriever/Cinnamon Roll
▶ Fake Dating
▶ No Third Act Breakup
▶ It's always been you
▶ Forehead Kisses
Overall this felt just like a sweet and cute Hallmark movie, that is just going to make you giddy and smile. It was absolutely adorable and a fantastic book to pick up if you are looking for your next hockey romance fix!
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Giddy! That is how this book makes you feel! Utterly and completely GIDDY! It had me kicking and squealing, giggling like a schoolgirl with a crush and just overall shaking my legs at how cute and awesome it was.
I was elated at the events that happened and loved how things unfurled. The two flirting with each other was excellent and the way these two migrated from fake to not fake was TEXTBOOK PERFECTION on how to pull off that trope FANTASTICALLY! (Mostly because the lines blurred so well you weren't sure when they realised this is no longer fake between them - because it was WELL BEFORE they told each other).
Hazel is the team's physiotherapist and older sister of Piper, who was the main character in Behind the Net. Hazel has a dilemma, her cheating ex-boyfriend has just been traded into the hockey team she works for and she is assigned as his physiotherapist. He is also the reason Hazel has closed off her heart to any professional sports player - because you can't get hurt if you never open yourself to it in the first place. Rory has been secretly pining after Hazel since she was his math tutor in high school, so to keep her Ex at bay, the two strike up a fake relationship as a way to hinder any advances that her ex might make.
This book does interpersonal relationships really well. Especially how difficult it can be to maintain and work on those relationships. Hazel's relationship with her mother is quite strained as her mother is battling with a body image problem. She was a ballerina that hasn't been able to dance for a while, so is super critical of how she looks. As a result, she doesn't allow herself to try any experiences because of how her body would be perceived. This goes against everything Hazel is trying to achieve with her dream of opening a body-positive yoga studio.
Rory has a strained relationship with both his parents. He believes that choosing hockey and staying with his dad forced his mom away. However, with age, it's become clear that his dad seems to love hockey and only hockey. Being Rory's agent he pushes Rory in directions that don't make him happy anymore causing conflict between the two.
Hazel and Rory's relationship was absolutely beautiful because the two of them bring out the best in each other. Rory makes Hazel see that she can do anything. She can make her dreams a reality and her presence makes people's lives better. He helps her overcome her fear of love and the underlying trauma her ex caused and helps her see how amazing she is. Likewise Hazel makes Rory find his love for hockey again. At the start of the book, has lost touch with what the game means to him. Due to his father's influence, he is just going through the motions and being who he thinks his father wants him to be. But Hazel changes his perspective, opens his heart to collaboration and teamwork and gives him the chance to be his own type of role model allowing him to balance life and hockey in a way his parents never managed to do when he was growing up.
The spice in this was also fun! Rory makes Hazel feel incredibly sexy by sending her a shit ton of lingerie which the two of and enjoy through various phone exchanges and spicy scenes.
Tropes in this include:
▶
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Hockey Romance
▶ Found Family
▶ Golden Retriever/Cinnamon Roll
▶ Fake Dating
▶ No Third Act Breakup
▶ It's always been you
▶ Forehead Kisses
Overall this felt just like a sweet and cute Hallmark movie, that is just going to make you giddy and smile. It was absolutely adorable and a fantastic book to pick up if you are looking for your next hockey romance fix!
December 7, 2023
“You’re so beautiful that it makes my chest hurt.” My heart pounds. “And even when we’re a hundred years old,” he whispers, “I’ll be flirting with you to get your attention.”
the fake out is going down as my fav stephanie archer book (sorry finn!!) rory & hazel’s hate to love fake dating romance was perfect and I loved every second.
when hazel’s ex joins the team she’s a physical therapist for, rory - her borderline nemesis - offers to fake date her so they look good as he just got captain on the team. the two of them forming a friendship, shameless flirting, and the HEAT omg I loved every second.
boy obsessed & soft for only her are two of my fav things and rory is it!!!! he was so good and kind and patient with her. I was giddy, kicking my feet, and blushing the whole time.
thank you sm for an arc!! It’s out now!
read if you like
✨ hockey romance
✨ fake dating
✨ hate to love
✨ golden retriever boy obsessed
✨ found fam vibes
✨ no third act break up (one of my fav things about stephanie’s books tbh)
the fake out is going down as my fav stephanie archer book (sorry finn!!) rory & hazel’s hate to love fake dating romance was perfect and I loved every second.
when hazel’s ex joins the team she’s a physical therapist for, rory - her borderline nemesis - offers to fake date her so they look good as he just got captain on the team. the two of them forming a friendship, shameless flirting, and the HEAT omg I loved every second.
boy obsessed & soft for only her are two of my fav things and rory is it!!!! he was so good and kind and patient with her. I was giddy, kicking my feet, and blushing the whole time.
thank you sm for an arc!! It’s out now!
read if you like
✨ hockey romance
✨ fake dating
✨ hate to love
✨ golden retriever boy obsessed
✨ found fam vibes
✨ no third act break up (one of my fav things about stephanie’s books tbh)
December 11, 2023
4.5 ⭐
MCs:
- Rory Miller
- Hazel Hartley
Book info:
- Fake dating
- Boy obsessed
- Slowburn
- Sports romance (Hockey)
- Body dysmorphia
- Controlling parent
- OMD
- Non-virgin MCs
- No cheating, owd, 3rd act breakup
- HFN (engaged)
This book was soooo good! I think I smiled most of the time I was reading it and I had so much fun with Rory and Hazel's story.
Background:
Hazel's cheating ex-boyfriend, Connor, was traded to Rory's team, and she was assigned to be his physiotherapist. On their first session, Connor assumed that Hazel was still hung up on him, so she blurted out all of a sudden that she was dating Rory. After all, Connor and Rory had disliked each other since high school, and Hazel thought that using her ex's rival was the best way to show Connor that she had moved on and was no longer affected by him. And Rory was more than happy to take advantage of this opportunity to finally win Hazel over. Hence, the start of their fake dating scheme.
==== Rory ====
Rory has had feelings for Hazel for a long time; when I say he's boy obsessed, he truly had it so bad for her. Even when they were younger, he was drawn to her, and that attraction came back when he saw Hazel a year ago. He was also thrilled to learn that she was the physio for the team he was being traded to. He has been celibate for the past year and a half and has never looked at any other women after seeing Hazel again. I know it's fiction, but this is the level of commitment I would expect from my MMC, and kudos to Rory for setting the bar high.
This guy was cocky and arrogant, but he's also Hazel's sweetest, most protective, loving, and perfect fake boyfriend. He always wants to give her everything she needs and make her smile. Also, he was so smitten with Hazel that he couldn't keep his hand off of her. I can't stop giggling over his flirtatious and seductive antics; they made me feel very hot and bothered. This man was almost perfect, and damn it, he had me wishing I had my own Rory.
==== Hazel ====
For the most part of the book, I liked her. She wound up becoming guarded and settling for hook-ups after her ex cheated on her. To be honest, I didn't mind that she's a player—my double standard is coming through—but I really enjoyed this FMC because it's not something you read very often. Her one-night rule is something she has never broken, yet she did for Rory. However, I find it a little annoying that she hesitates so much all the time because she keeps thinking Rory is the same as her ex. Her reluctance makes sense to me, but he has never given her any reason to worry. He has been a steady guy through and through.
But when Hazel eventually admitted how she really felt for Rory, I did start to like her. She turned into his biggest ally and has stood by him ever since. She showed him how much he was worth of love and assured him that she would always be by his side. Even though it took her a while to realise that she loved him, I'm glad that when she did, she gave her all to the relationship.
==== Overall ====
Rory wants Hazel to want him, but Hazel is hesitant, so the story progresses at a slow burn pace. It took Hazel a while to overcome her mistrust of hockey players. Though they were fooling around, the actual deed occurs at the 80% mark in the story. While I never got bored of the story and these two kept me interested, I find it a bit bothersome that they only became intimate in the final 20% of the book.
The fake dating was entertaining because the tension and chemistry between the MCs were off the charts. I was swooning over their kisses and lingering touches, and I couldn't stop grinning at their scenes.
And the spice, gooood, it was so hot! I was fanning myself over these scenes, and damn, they were both so good at it. I would definitely say it was worth the wait, and readers must bear with it because when it burns, it really burns!
I also appreciated that the MCs were able to resolve their differences with their parents. Hazel and her mother have become closer, and Rory and his family have begun attending therapy. I always thought it was great when characters in stories made the decision to improve themselves.
Overall, I really liked it, and since I can't get enough of Rory, I'll definitely read it again. 😂 The majority of the rating went to him and the work he put into this story. This is definitely worth reading and recommending.
MCs:
- Rory Miller
- Hazel Hartley
Book info:
- Fake dating
- Boy obsessed
- Slowburn
- Sports romance (Hockey)
- Body dysmorphia
- Controlling parent
- OMD
- Non-virgin MCs
- No cheating, owd, 3rd act breakup
- HFN (engaged)
This book was soooo good! I think I smiled most of the time I was reading it and I had so much fun with Rory and Hazel's story.
Background:
Hazel's cheating ex-boyfriend, Connor, was traded to Rory's team, and she was assigned to be his physiotherapist. On their first session, Connor assumed that Hazel was still hung up on him, so she blurted out all of a sudden that she was dating Rory. After all, Connor and Rory had disliked each other since high school, and Hazel thought that using her ex's rival was the best way to show Connor that she had moved on and was no longer affected by him. And Rory was more than happy to take advantage of this opportunity to finally win Hazel over. Hence, the start of their fake dating scheme.
==== Rory ====
Rory has had feelings for Hazel for a long time; when I say he's boy obsessed, he truly had it so bad for her. Even when they were younger, he was drawn to her, and that attraction came back when he saw Hazel a year ago. He was also thrilled to learn that she was the physio for the team he was being traded to. He has been celibate for the past year and a half and has never looked at any other women after seeing Hazel again. I know it's fiction, but this is the level of commitment I would expect from my MMC, and kudos to Rory for setting the bar high.
This guy was cocky and arrogant, but he's also Hazel's sweetest, most protective, loving, and perfect fake boyfriend. He always wants to give her everything she needs and make her smile. Also, he was so smitten with Hazel that he couldn't keep his hand off of her. I can't stop giggling over his flirtatious and seductive antics; they made me feel very hot and bothered. This man was almost perfect, and damn it, he had me wishing I had my own Rory.
==== Hazel ====
For the most part of the book, I liked her. She wound up becoming guarded and settling for hook-ups after her ex cheated on her. To be honest, I didn't mind that she's a player—my double standard is coming through—but I really enjoyed this FMC because it's not something you read very often. Her one-night rule is something she has never broken, yet she did for Rory. However, I find it a little annoying that she hesitates so much all the time because she keeps thinking Rory is the same as her ex. Her reluctance makes sense to me, but he has never given her any reason to worry. He has been a steady guy through and through.
But when Hazel eventually admitted how she really felt for Rory, I did start to like her. She turned into his biggest ally and has stood by him ever since. She showed him how much he was worth of love and assured him that she would always be by his side. Even though it took her a while to realise that she loved him, I'm glad that when she did, she gave her all to the relationship.
==== Overall ====
Rory wants Hazel to want him, but Hazel is hesitant, so the story progresses at a slow burn pace. It took Hazel a while to overcome her mistrust of hockey players. Though they were fooling around, the actual deed occurs at the 80% mark in the story. While I never got bored of the story and these two kept me interested, I find it a bit bothersome that they only became intimate in the final 20% of the book.
The fake dating was entertaining because the tension and chemistry between the MCs were off the charts. I was swooning over their kisses and lingering touches, and I couldn't stop grinning at their scenes.
And the spice, gooood, it was so hot! I was fanning myself over these scenes, and damn, they were both so good at it. I would definitely say it was worth the wait, and readers must bear with it because when it burns, it really burns!
I also appreciated that the MCs were able to resolve their differences with their parents. Hazel and her mother have become closer, and Rory and his family have begun attending therapy. I always thought it was great when characters in stories made the decision to improve themselves.
Overall, I really liked it, and since I can't get enough of Rory, I'll definitely read it again. 😂 The majority of the rating went to him and the work he put into this story. This is definitely worth reading and recommending.
December 26, 2023
another 6 star masterpiece😭😭
March 25, 2024
3.85 stars
only reason i didn’t give it 4 stars is bc of the epilogue.. like why was it so fast 😭
only reason i didn’t give it 4 stars is bc of the epilogue.. like why was it so fast 😭
December 8, 2023
The Fake Out is a sweet and steamy fake dating, he falls first, hockey romance full of banter and so many swoony moments! The story follows Hazel, a physiotherapist for the Vancouver Storm hockey team, and Rory, captain of said team. When Hazel's ex is drafted into the group and she is forced to be his therapist, she and Rory devise a plan to fake a relationship in order to make her ex jealous and improve Rory's image. However, as the two get closer, lines blur, and Rory and Hazel are unsure if what they are doing is fake or if they are both in this for real.
I am absolutely in love with Rory and Hazel, the way they came together and learned to lean on each other was so sweet and charming! The romance was romancing, let me tell you, Stephanie Archer knows how to craft a story. I loved that Rory and Hazel communicated when there were issues and there was no third-act breakup, the two were so healthy and supportive of one another. The way they both grew for each other and themselves was adorable. Rory went from this cocky but secretly lonely hockey player to an compltely devoted and caring partner to Hazel and it was so refreshing and endearing to watch him realize how gone he was for her. I am so excited for the rest of the series, I can't wait for Hayden's story!
~Many thanks to Stephanie Archer for an ARC of the book in return for an honest review.
I am absolutely in love with Rory and Hazel, the way they came together and learned to lean on each other was so sweet and charming! The romance was romancing, let me tell you, Stephanie Archer knows how to craft a story. I loved that Rory and Hazel communicated when there were issues and there was no third-act breakup, the two were so healthy and supportive of one another. The way they both grew for each other and themselves was adorable. Rory went from this cocky but secretly lonely hockey player to an compltely devoted and caring partner to Hazel and it was so refreshing and endearing to watch him realize how gone he was for her. I am so excited for the rest of the series, I can't wait for Hayden's story!
~Many thanks to Stephanie Archer for an ARC of the book in return for an honest review.
December 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this! It reminded me of why I am such a big fan of the fake dating trope. Review to come!
June 6, 2024
dnf at 53%, chapter 41
ᯓ ☆1.5 stars
It was cute and everything, but it was so boring and dragging. and this was fake dating??? It was literally the furthest thing from fake dating, in my opinion. also, I didn't feel they were loving each other; I felt they were just lusting for each other. okay, at first it was cute, and I was giggling and all, but bro, in these 53%, there was nothing happening between them—no conflict, no fights, no anything. even when there were little fights that could lead to misunderstandings—don't get me wrong, I literally hate misunderstanding and miscommunication tropes—they would be fine the next minute. I mean, you both know how to communicate and all, good for you. but I want something to happen. I'm bored, bro. I don't think I can handle cuteness in 82 chapters and an epilogue.
the writing style wasn't helping either. the MMC was so good, to be honest, but I don't care anymore.
ᯓ ☆1.5 stars
It was cute and everything, but it was so boring and dragging. and this was fake dating??? It was literally the furthest thing from fake dating, in my opinion. also, I didn't feel they were loving each other; I felt they were just lusting for each other. okay, at first it was cute, and I was giggling and all, but bro, in these 53%, there was nothing happening between them—no conflict, no fights, no anything. even when there were little fights that could lead to misunderstandings—don't get me wrong, I literally hate misunderstanding and miscommunication tropes—they would be fine the next minute. I mean, you both know how to communicate and all, good for you. but I want something to happen. I'm bored, bro. I don't think I can handle cuteness in 82 chapters and an epilogue.
the writing style wasn't helping either. the MMC was so good, to be honest, but I don't care anymore.
February 10, 2024
good fucking shit
December 31, 2023
5 ✰ I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! 🐿️💜
* screaming and crying cause it’s over *
I loved every second that I spent reading this c̶u̶t̶e̶ spicy hockey romance 💌
Wait… wait… I got something for all of you…
* magic spell * 🪄
“Even when we’re a hundred years old, I’ll be flirting with you to get your attention.” ❄️
“Don’t bully me, Hartley. It turns me on.” 👌🏻
“ If my heart is a house, Rory now lives there.” 💘
“ Be a good fake girlfriend, Hartley, and let me kiss you.” 😍
“ Hartley. Wear those earrings. If you lose one, I’ll buy you another. I’ll buy you ten.” 🥺
Rory: I called your parents earlier.
Hazel: Why?
Rory: Because you wanted it, Hartley. ⛸️🏒
IM A FREAKING STAN OF THIS BOOK ‼️💜
* screaming and crying cause it’s over *
I loved every second that I spent reading this c̶u̶t̶e̶ spicy hockey romance 💌
Wait… wait… I got something for all of you…
* magic spell * 🪄
“Even when we’re a hundred years old, I’ll be flirting with you to get your attention.” ❄️
“Don’t bully me, Hartley. It turns me on.” 👌🏻
“ If my heart is a house, Rory now lives there.” 💘
“ Be a good fake girlfriend, Hartley, and let me kiss you.” 😍
“ Hartley. Wear those earrings. If you lose one, I’ll buy you another. I’ll buy you ten.” 🥺
Rory: I called your parents earlier.
Hazel: Why?
Rory: Because you wanted it, Hartley. ⛸️🏒
IM A FREAKING STAN OF THIS BOOK ‼️💜
September 3, 2024
i would like to make it clear that rory is my man 😂🤭❤️
December 10, 2023
by page 10 he’s in love with her
what happened to relationship development?
what happened to relationship development?
September 28, 2024
Stephanie Archer has done it again. Rory and Hazel have easily become one of my favorite book couples. They are the blueprint for romance.
Rory is just the dream guy—he’s been head over heels for Hazel since page one, and the way he looks out for her? Swoon. Their playful banter and the way they just get each other is just perfection.
This book was the perfect fluffy romance I needed. While the plot was stronger in the first half, the second half was full of steamy moments. Sure, their relationship steps might feel a little rushed, but they’re so stinkin' cute, I didn’t even care. I mean, Rory drunkenly got a dragon tattoo because Hazel’s his "fire-breathing dragon"! Oh, and he got a matching crystal dragon too! I’m practically melting from all this sweetness!
Can we just take a moment to appreciate that Stephanie skips the dreaded third-act breakup? All in all, it’s a super cute story filled with lovable characters and fantastic tropes. I loved every second!
Read this if you like:
🐉 Fake Dating
🐉 Hockey Romance
🐉 He Falls First and Hard
🐉 No Third-act Breakup
🚨🚨 TW: Toxic relationship, sexual harassment, body shaming, parental abandonment
Rory is just the dream guy—he’s been head over heels for Hazel since page one, and the way he looks out for her? Swoon. Their playful banter and the way they just get each other is just perfection.
This book was the perfect fluffy romance I needed. While the plot was stronger in the first half, the second half was full of steamy moments. Sure, their relationship steps might feel a little rushed, but they’re so stinkin' cute, I didn’t even care. I mean, Rory drunkenly got a dragon tattoo because Hazel’s his "fire-breathing dragon"! Oh, and he got a matching crystal dragon too! I’m practically melting from all this sweetness!
Can we just take a moment to appreciate that Stephanie skips the dreaded third-act breakup? All in all, it’s a super cute story filled with lovable characters and fantastic tropes. I loved every second!
Read this if you like:
🐉 Fake Dating
🐉 Hockey Romance
🐉 He Falls First and Hard
🐉 No Third-act Breakup
🚨🚨 TW: Toxic relationship, sexual harassment, body shaming, parental abandonment
December 8, 2023
This book felt like the longest story ever when it was only just under 430 pages… just lost interest 👎🏽
August 22, 2024
im dying single
October 27, 2024
update: hi it’s me three months later raising this to a five star because i think about this book nearly every day 🫶🏼
i’m a simple woman – give me a cocky sarcastic golden retriever man and i will fold immediately!
in all seriousness, this quickly became one of my favorite romances ever. the dynamic between hazel and rory was EVERYTHING. the banter, the tension, the spice, the sweet moments, i ate it all right up. this is fake dating done right!!!!! their growth and progression and how the lines between fake and real blurred ... authors, take notes.
as individuals both of the characters were so well developed. i feel like in a lot of contemporary romances they kind of get lost in the romance if that makes sense? i want individuals who happen to be made for each other. i want rory, with his massive personality and parental issues and his journey to find what makes him happy again. i want hazel, girl boss with a fiery attitude with a kind heart and big dreams.
i mean, even the side characters have depth. i loved seeing jamie and pippa, and i cannot WAIT for hayden’s booki got the arc but it doesn’t come until september help. found family will do it for me every! time!
and if you still aren’t sold on this book/series, no third act breakups.
anyway why do i kinda want to give this five stars? it didn’t hit like a five star but i have absolutely no complaints about it and i just know i’ll be thinking about rory n hazel for so long. 4.5 maybe idk this was just so GOOD and you should all read it!!!!!
pre read
i read behind the net last august, got excited for this release, then proceeded to just ... never read it? rory miller i’m coming for u 🤭
i’m a simple woman – give me a cocky sarcastic golden retriever man and i will fold immediately!
in all seriousness, this quickly became one of my favorite romances ever. the dynamic between hazel and rory was EVERYTHING. the banter, the tension, the spice, the sweet moments, i ate it all right up. this is fake dating done right!!!!! their growth and progression and how the lines between fake and real blurred ... authors, take notes.
as individuals both of the characters were so well developed. i feel like in a lot of contemporary romances they kind of get lost in the romance if that makes sense? i want individuals who happen to be made for each other. i want rory, with his massive personality and parental issues and his journey to find what makes him happy again. i want hazel, girl boss with a fiery attitude with a kind heart and big dreams.
i mean, even the side characters have depth. i loved seeing jamie and pippa, and i cannot WAIT for hayden’s book
and if you still aren’t sold on this book/series, no third act breakups.
anyway why do i kinda want to give this five stars? it didn’t hit like a five star but i have absolutely no complaints about it and i just know i’ll be thinking about rory n hazel for so long. 4.5 maybe idk this was just so GOOD and you should all read it!!!!!
pre read
i read behind the net last august, got excited for this release, then proceeded to just ... never read it? rory miller i’m coming for u 🤭
December 22, 2023
5 🌟
I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF RORY AND HAZEL.
I cannot express how much I loved this book. I was GIGGLING and kicking my feet in the air when reading it.
In my updates I compared my love for this book to The Deal and I don’t make this comparison lightly. I love The Deal so much I’ve re-read it three times this year and I can easily see myself doing the same with this book.
The banter and tension between Rory And Hazel was incredible. The funny moments, the falling in love… it was perfect. I love that there was no third-act break up and that the epilogue was just what a reader would enjoy.
Please, please read it and give it a go. I can assure you, you’ll love this book.
I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF RORY AND HAZEL.
I cannot express how much I loved this book. I was GIGGLING and kicking my feet in the air when reading it.
In my updates I compared my love for this book to The Deal and I don’t make this comparison lightly. I love The Deal so much I’ve re-read it three times this year and I can easily see myself doing the same with this book.
The banter and tension between Rory And Hazel was incredible. The funny moments, the falling in love… it was perfect. I love that there was no third-act break up and that the epilogue was just what a reader would enjoy.
Please, please read it and give it a go. I can assure you, you’ll love this book.
January 6, 2024
“And even when we’re a hundred years old,” he whispers, “I’ll be flirting with you to get your attention.”
LOVED IT. absolutely fucking loved it. i don't know if it was because i had ZERO expectations, but this might be the best romance book i've read this year.
i'm at a loss for words to write a decent review but this had perfect characters, perfect scenes, perfect sexual tension just perfect everythingggggggggg. and he was such a simp for her 😩🙏
December 2, 2023
omg, this was absolutely incredible
i finished it in one day, i was physically unable to stop reading. let me say that i was giggling and smiling so bad for them
“Rory transferred to our high school when he was starting grade eleven and sat behind me in Geography, putting tiny pieces of paper in my hair to get me to talk to him.”
boy was he down for her since day one, and he was not afraid to show it. this man was determined, took the chance and nailed it.
i just loved everything about it. the fake dating, Rory’s energy, their banter, them falling for each other, all of the characters. this was everything i was expecting and more.
i loved behind the net so much, but i think i might like this one even more, just so you get an idea
but also, I AM SO EXCITED FOR THE NEXT BOOK!!
thank you so much to stephanie archer and her team for sending me the arc. i really really really enjoyed it! <3 (honestly)
i finished it in one day, i was physically unable to stop reading. let me say that i was giggling and smiling so bad for them
“Rory transferred to our high school when he was starting grade eleven and sat behind me in Geography, putting tiny pieces of paper in my hair to get me to talk to him.”
boy was he down for her since day one, and he was not afraid to show it. this man was determined, took the chance and nailed it.
i just loved everything about it. the fake dating, Rory’s energy, their banter, them falling for each other, all of the characters. this was everything i was expecting and more.
i loved behind the net so much, but i think i might like this one even more, just so you get an idea
but also, I AM SO EXCITED FOR THE NEXT BOOK!!
thank you so much to stephanie archer and her team for sending me the arc. i really really really enjoyed it! <3 (honestly)
December 9, 2023
four stars because this is literally my dream relationship. i desperately need me a man who’s wholehearted obsessed with me and will get a tattoo that reminds him of me, thank you.
i didn’t think i’d like anyone as much as i liked pippa and jamie but hazel and rory just skyrocketed in my favorite characters list. i loooove them & i love this series so much.
i didn’t think i’d like anyone as much as i liked pippa and jamie but hazel and rory just skyrocketed in my favorite characters list. i loooove them & i love this series so much.
March 23, 2024
rory miller. where are you at because i am IN LOVE😭!
rory and hazel start fake dating after her ex boyfriend joins the team. but soon after, the fake dating turns into more. rory has had a crush on hazel since high school and has always let her know he wants to peruse something with her but hazel has sworn off hockey players. but of course hazel falls for rory miller BECAUSE HE IS RORY MILLER😭!!! this book had me so freaking giddy and happy because of how cute rory and hazel are. they are so so perfect, this book now has a special place in my heart 😭🤍
rory and hazel start fake dating after her ex boyfriend joins the team. but soon after, the fake dating turns into more. rory has had a crush on hazel since high school and has always let her know he wants to peruse something with her but hazel has sworn off hockey players. but of course hazel falls for rory miller BECAUSE HE IS RORY MILLER😭!!! this book had me so freaking giddy and happy because of how cute rory and hazel are. they are so so perfect, this book now has a special place in my heart 😭🤍
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