Summer of Fun: Fake Love in the Hamptons

8 reviews for Summer of Fun: Fake Love in the Hamptons

1. 

   4 out of 5

   arinay – May 26, 2024

   It’s an easy read that keeps you hooked. The romance is predictable, but it’s the kind that makes you want to learn more.

2. 

   5 out of 5

   E. – June 15, 2024

   This book had me laughing and crying multiple times. While the storyline may appear clichéd, the engaging writing style kept me hooked all day long, and the surprising plot twists transformed it into something truly special. I absolutely adore the couple, their journey, and their circle of friends.

3. 

   5 out of 5

   Jinx – June 17, 2024

   I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it hard to put down, even though I wanted to take my time and appreciate it. The plot was unique and realistic, the characters were well-developed, and I especially loved the witty exchanges between Julian and Evie. This was my first read by this author, but it certainly won’t be my last.

4. 

   5 out of 5

   Anna D. – June 18, 2024

   Initially, I expected this book to be just another cliché story about fake romance. However, once I started reading, I found myself completely captivated by Evie and Julian. The depth and emotional richness of the narrative are remarkable. I adore Evie’s humor and her strong, bold personality. Julian’s character is equally compelling, showcasing both his strengths and flaws. There are so many valuable lessons woven throughout this single book.

5. 

   3 out of 5

   SiRe – July 15, 2024

   The story has potential, but it requires a lot of patience while reading. The plot moves slowly, and by the halfway point, it feels like not much has happened. Unfortunately, this also affects the suspense. One issue is the limited perspective of the female protagonist; a change in viewpoint now and then would be beneficial. Nevertheless, it’s still somewhat enjoyable, so I’ll give it three stars.

6. 

   4 out of 5

   N. Fisher – July 19, 2024

   As a long-time reader, I finally decided to dive into a book by this author. Like many, I tend to stick to familiar writers whose works I’ve read cover to cover. This year has been quite the reading journey for me—this marks my 389th book!

   To start, the heroine’s beginning is quite unfortunate. After supporting her boyfriend financially for eight years during their 12-year relationship, he decides to end things, claiming she’s not “good enough” for him. This leads her to a bar where she goes on a rant about wasting her life. The next morning, she wakes up next to a stunning stranger and is left questioning whether they spent the night together, especially since she finds herself in her underwear.

   The hero is a wonderfully complex character—broken yet noble, always prioritizing the needs of others over his own. He demonstrates this repeatedly throughout the story, from providing emotional and financial support to showering her with gifts. Being a billionaire certainly gives him the means to do so.

   As is typical in romance novels, there’s a happily-ever-after and a marriage proposal. Overall, it was an enjoyable read, described best as a slow burn; the physical aspects of their relationship, including kissing and intimacy, occur later in the book, around the halfway point. Outside of the romantic elements, here are my thoughts:

   1. I appreciated the author’s writing style.
   2. I’m not usually a fan of one-sided points of view, as I prefer getting insights from both protagonists. Unfortunately, we only see the heroine’s perspective. However, the one-sided viewpoint was executed well.
   3. The intimate scenes were sweet but not particularly steamy, so if you’re looking for something more risqué like works by Penny Wylder or Tessa Bailey, you might want to look elsewhere.
   4. The heroine was a bit much for me. Standing on a bar to share her personal woes with everyone, and not even being drunk, felt excessive—especially in New York. While I understand she’s from Nebraska, the bar patrons’ reactions were over the top. Additionally, when she discovers critical evidence regarding a homicide and realizes she was deceived by the hero, she panics and withholds the evidence. I found it hard to believe she wouldn’t just hand it over. Lastly, when her ex-boyfriend comes back into the picture, she runs off to give the hero another chance, leaving her ex in her apartment, which struck me as odd.
   5. I truly liked the hero’s character. He has endured a tough life, and I felt for him, though the heroine did come off as a bit demanding in her quest to learn more about him.

   Overall, I enjoyed the book, though it felt lengthy at times, with some scenes seeming unnecessary and not contributing to character development. Since this was my first read from this author and I found it enjoyable, I went ahead and purchased her other books, eager to explore them all.

7. 

   5 out of 5

   Jessica – August 8, 2024

   We’ve all experienced it—the painful breakup followed by a night out with friends, hoping to move on or just forget. Enter Julian Gage, the perfect distraction at just the right moment.

   When Evie meets Julian and he suggests they “fake date,” I initially thought she was foolish for hesitating and adding all those conditions. However, after their first weekend together, it becomes clear that her heartbreak has vanished. Julian and Evie share an effortless connection, and it’s only a matter of time before they fall in love, even if they don’t realize it yet.

   Seeing Evie bump into Trevor and his new girlfriend is every woman’s fantasy. Who wouldn’t want to show up with someone amazing, making their ex a bit envious? But as Evie starts to let go of Trevor and genuinely falls for Julian, the real excitement unfolds. Their relationship is everything, and every obstacle they face is worth it to reach their happy ending.

   I became deeply invested in Evie’s journey and Julian’s feelings for her as I eagerly turned the pages of this novel. The anticipation was intense, the love was heartwarming, and the conclusion was simply a dream come true.

8. 

   5 out of 5

   Danielle (Spellbound Stories) – August 12, 2024

   What an incredibly stunning love story! “Dating Games” was the perfect way to spend my evening. Having enjoyed TK Leigh’s previous works, I eagerly signed up to read this book for my blog, and I’m so glad I did!

   “Dating Games” is a fake relationship billionaire romance that truly deserves recognition as an outstanding read. While I typically prefer dual POV narratives, there was something perfectly captivating about experiencing this story solely from Evie’s perspective. TK Leigh shines in many areas of writing. The chemistry between her characters is electric, the romance is sizzling, and the book is thoroughly entertaining. This was absolutely true for “Dating Games.” The chemistry had my stomach in knots—it was executed so beautifully that I couldn’t put the book down. The connection between Evie and Julian was nearly palpable, making it utterly delicious and captivating.

   Of all the TK Leigh books I’ve read, “Dating Games” has become my favorite. The story was gripping, with a perfect pace that kept my interest intact. Evie and Julian are, without a doubt, my favorite characters from TK. Evie is spunky, sassy, and truly an amazing heroine. I loved her character arc, which was portrayed so well that I felt genuinely heartbroken for her at one point. Julian is the epitome of swoon-worthy! Seriously, he’s hot beyond measure! Although I sometimes found his emotional shifts a bit confusing, that didn’t lessen my enjoyment of “Dating Games” or diminish his role as the hero. Once you read the story, you’ll understand why I fell for him.

   Overall, I found the story to be perfect; I wouldn’t change a thing. While the fake boyfriend/girlfriend trope has been explored before, this story felt refreshingly unique. From the moment I discovered TK Leigh’s work, I’ve jumped at every chance to read her books, and “Dating Games” reminded me once again why I adore her writing. Pick up this spectacular book today—you won’t regret it!

   Quotes:
   “There are other ways to demonstrate your desire. Kissing is the easy way out. There’s nothing suggestive about one mouth pressing against the other. No. Desire is in the way your bodies find each other, the way your eyes darken with unmatched hunger, the way a shiver runs through you at the promise of what’s to come.”

   “Julian Gage is the most potent drug known to man. He should be regulated and come with a warning to all females… and perhaps a few men. Side effects include wet panties, labored breathing, and irregular heartbeat. May cause multiple orgasms upon even the slightest touch. Consult a doctor prior to repeated use.”

   “We may not know each other well, but the instant I saw you, I knew you were the only person who could do this with me. The only woman I’d want to do this with.” … “So bury your doubt. Your unabashed confidence is what caught my attention. Don’t let the idea that you’re not good enough, like Trevor made you think, take it away. You are good enough. Hell, you’re better than most people can ever dream to be.”