I don’t believe in manifesting; I like plans, my normal routine, and I’m not a risk taker. But a weak moment on New Year’s Eve makes me scribble a secret, humiliating resolution on paper. I never expected Mackenzie Carrington—the hot and elusive real estate mogul—to read it over my shoulder.
Instead of mocking me, he surprises me with a proposition. Act the part of his doting girlfriend to prove to his traditionalist father that he’s ready to take over as CEO. In exchange, Mac will personally help me step into a new era: one where I shed my sheltered, careful and predictable persona.
𝐌𝐚𝐜:
My father’s ultimatum was clear: bring my “serious” girlfriend to his retirement gala and show stability, or kiss the CEO position goodbye. Remembering Eliza Pierce’s not-so-innocent manifestation was the break I needed.
The deal is simple: she provides the respectable image I require to secure my future, and I give her the experiences she’s been missing.
I thought six months with her would satisfy my curiosity, but the more time we spend together, the less fake our relationship feels. Now I have to face my biggest challenge—can I not only convince my father I’ve changed, but convince Eliza to stay?
... Read moreIf you're a fan of fake dating romance novels, 'Faking With You' offers an appealing mix of tension, charm, and emotional growth. The story revolves around Eliza, who is struggling with her predictable life and secretly yearning for change, and Mackenzie, a determined real estate mogul forced to prove his seriousness to his traditional father by bringing a stable girlfriend to a critical event.
This trope—where an arranged or fake relationship gradually becomes genuine—is a favorite for romance readers because it allows characters to open up and evolve naturally. The book takes this trope further by incorporating manifestation themes, reflecting modern-day interests in goal-setting and self-improvement, which makes Eliza's vulnerability relatable and authentic.
Additionally, the dynamic between Mackenzie and his father adds a layer of family pressure and personal ambition that drives the plot beyond simple romance. This CEO and family approval subplot is popular in contemporary romance, offering readers engaging conflict and high stakes.
What makes 'Faking With You' stand out is the emotional journey—the transformation of Eliza from cautious to adventurous, aided by Mackenzie's support. Readers who enjoy stories of self-discovery alongside romantic tension will find this novel heartfelt and satisfying.
Moreover, the book explores found family and age gap tropes subtly woven into the narrative, enriching the characters' relationships and emotional depth. Fans of hockey or sports romance might also appreciate cameos or influences from those settings, as hinted by the OCR recognition referencing 'hockey goalie' and 'mmc' (male main character).
Overall, 'Faking With You' promises a well-crafted story combining heartfelt romance with themes of personal growth and family dynamics, making it a must-read for anyone who loves modern romance novels with depth and engaging characters.