July 1, 2023
Jessica Gallagher, a clinical therapist and the author of the book Ten Things Not To Do If You Ever Want To See a Naked Girl Again: The Straight Man's Guide To Not Dying Alone in a Pile of Dirty Underwear, never imagined that her book would become the inspiration for her own love story, especially when its release coincides with the end of her 15-year relationship. Needing to spin the situation, Jessica's publicist suggests that she and Galvin Baker, an architect with a reputation for flightiness, should fake-date for a couple of months. Galvin recently faced backlash from a popular social media star who accused him of underperforming in bed, making him the perfect person to create buzz around Jessica's new book. Their pretend relationship starts off well, but unexpected encounters with toxic parents and self-doubts stall their seemingly perfect connection. As Jessica's book inspires men to be better partners and communicate effectively, her love story with Galvin might just become real. VERDICT Christopher (Thank You, Next), known for her witty and steamy contemporary romances, once again proves her talent for crafting engrossing stories about love and relationships.--Michelle Mistalski
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July 24, 2023
Christopher (Thank You, Next) kicks off this saucy fake relationship rom-com when relationship therapist Jessica Gallagher’s boyfriend of 15 years dumps her the day before the release of her dating advice book. To save face, her publicist suggests she pose as a couple with famed architect Galvin Baker. Once a notorious playboy, Galvin, who was raised by narcissistic parents and has suffered from low self-esteem for most of his life, hasn’t had a date since his Instagram influencer ex posted a video mocking his (lack of) sexual prowess. Jessica, meanwhile, grew up watching her mother chase one bad relationship after another, and opts for character over fleeting chemistry. As the pair connect through intimate conversations and playful moments, the fake couple start to fall in love for real, each balancing out the other’s flaws. When Jessica gets upset over seeing her ex with someone new, however, Galvin’s old insecurities resurface. With a sultry focus on female sexual pleasure and genuine emotional depth between the beautifully imperfect protagonists, the central relationship proves easy to root for. This flirty and uplifting romance imparts a powerful message about healing, self-love, and communication. Agent: Courtney Miller-Callihan, Handspun Literary.
October 15, 2023
Dumped by her longtime boyfriend just as her book of relationship advice is being released, a therapist starts fake-dating an acquaintance from college. Jessica Gallagher has done her best to not end up like her mother, who never modeled what a positive, healthy romantic relationship looked like. For 15 years, Jessica was in a committed relationship with the same man, and while it wasn't passionate, she thought it was stable...until he unexpectedly moved out. When she runs into architect Galvin Baker, newly single Jessica learns the Lothario she knew from college has relationship troubles of his own. His Instagram-famous ex-girlfriend criticized his sexual prowess to her followers, and now he's been rethinking his actions in past relationships. They decide to pretend to date to bolster each other's reputations. From the beginning, though, the feelings are real, as Galvin brings out Jessica's hedonistic side and she makes him a better, more emotionally attuned partner. Christopher's latest standalone romance critiques the pitfalls of modern dating in the era of social media and apps while also showcasing how wonderful a romantic partnership can be with communication and introspection. Galvin and Jessica are appealing, thoughtfully created characters whose relationship hang-ups are realistically influenced by their parents. Their chemistry is sizzling and adds levity and fun to the emotions-driven story. Although the third act breakup doesn't entirely ring true and makes the finale drag, the happy ending for this perfectly matched couple still satisfies. Rich characterization and mature emotions make this an engaging read.
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