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Fake Boyfriend #4.5
Winning You - Liebe im Takt
Available in the Fake Boyfriend Breakaways collection
Marty and Luce win a blind date through a charity raffle. Marty is young and vibrant. Luce is older and a little bit bitter. In one night, they manage to change the course of each other’s lives.
This is a prequel of Hat Trick in the Fake Boyfriend universe. Previously published in Heart2Heart volume 2. This story has been extended from the original and re-edited.
Marty and Luce win a blind date through a charity raffle. Marty is young and vibrant. Luce is older and a little bit bitter. In one night, they manage to change the course of each other’s lives.
This is a prequel of Hat Trick in the Fake Boyfriend universe. Previously published in Heart2Heart volume 2. This story has been extended from the original and re-edited.
104 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2019
9 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Eden Finley
69 books7,938 followersEden Finley is an Amazon bestselling author who writes steamy contemporary romances that are mostly full of snark and light-hearted fluff.
She lives to create an escape from real life for herself and her readers.
She's also an Australian girl and apologises for her Australianisms that sometimes don't make sense to anyone else.
She lives to create an escape from real life for herself and her readers.
She's also an Australian girl and apologises for her Australianisms that sometimes don't make sense to anyone else.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
February 8, 2025
3.2 ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️.5/5
Format: audiobook
Narration: 🎤🎤/5
This was my favorite of all the short stories, which is ironic because it was the one I was least curious about. I really wasn’t invested in Marty and Luce’s story—perhaps because I didn’t really like Hat Trick all that much—but there were a lot of aspects about this little novella that I enjoyed.
I really liked the meet-cute, they were kind of adorable. Marty was very feisty and headstrong, and Luce went from disliking that about him to finding it really endearing. This was very much insta-love/lust. I mean, this moved super super fast even for a novella, but it worked for me.
Seeing Jet again wasn’t exactly my favorite (again, because Hat Trick was just blah), but it was cool to see how Luce came about becoming their manager and seeing the little crumbs of Jet and Harley first getting together.
There was some conflict but it didn’t feel OTT or unnecessary like the other stories in this collection. I’m lowkey glad this is over though.
Alexander Cendese’s “twinky character” voice continues to drive me up a wall. I appreciate every second I get with Iggy Toma before it switches back.
Spice: 🌶️.5/5
Format: audiobook
Narration: 🎤🎤/5
This was my favorite of all the short stories, which is ironic because it was the one I was least curious about. I really wasn’t invested in Marty and Luce’s story—perhaps because I didn’t really like Hat Trick all that much—but there were a lot of aspects about this little novella that I enjoyed.
I really liked the meet-cute, they were kind of adorable. Marty was very feisty and headstrong, and Luce went from disliking that about him to finding it really endearing. This was very much insta-love/lust. I mean, this moved super super fast even for a novella, but it worked for me.
Seeing Jet again wasn’t exactly my favorite (again, because Hat Trick was just blah), but it was cool to see how Luce came about becoming their manager and seeing the little crumbs of Jet and Harley first getting together.
There was some conflict but it didn’t feel OTT or unnecessary like the other stories in this collection. I’m lowkey glad this is over though.
Alexander Cendese’s “twinky character” voice continues to drive me up a wall. I appreciate every second I get with Iggy Toma before it switches back.
June 27, 2024
Rating: 3 Stars.
Steam: 4 out of 10.
Triggers:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Uhm, it was okay, this will contain spoilers :
I thought the whole thing was cute at the beginning but I really hated how Luce ghosted for 2 months Marty, I think it was mean and unnecessary for someone you're supposedly so into him.
Steam: 4 out of 10.
Triggers:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Uhm, it was okay, this will contain spoilers :
I thought the whole thing was cute at the beginning but I really hated how Luce ghosted for 2 months Marty, I think it was mean and unnecessary for someone you're supposedly so into him.
March 11, 2022
5 stars - Loved it!!
I am SO pleasantly surprised with this book!! This is meant to be a prequel to the next book in the series Hat Trick so these are new characters in preparation for getting to know Soren and Jet and I couldn't be more excited!!
The trope for this was basically insta-love if I had to describe it. It was just so sweet from beginning to end, and you have that satisfaction of a couple that just click even if they didn't expect to. It was a great comfort read that I will definitely want to read again and it made me even more excited for Hat Trick!
I am SO pleasantly surprised with this book!! This is meant to be a prequel to the next book in the series Hat Trick so these are new characters in preparation for getting to know Soren and Jet and I couldn't be more excited!!
The trope for this was basically insta-love if I had to describe it. It was just so sweet from beginning to end, and you have that satisfaction of a couple that just click even if they didn't expect to. It was a great comfort read that I will definitely want to read again and it made me even more excited for Hat Trick!
November 10, 2022
Read as part of Breakaways anthology.
3 stars. It genuinely never crossed my mind how these two got together. And having read that, I still question why we needed to hear about them. Very focused on setting up the Hat Trick plot.
3 stars. It genuinely never crossed my mind how these two got together. And having read that, I still question why we needed to hear about them. Very focused on setting up the Hat Trick plot.
January 20, 2026
21/01/24
uzivala sam
{luce & marty}
20/01/26 reread
_____
The guy who’s supposedly my date for the night bounds up to the stage in an excited ball of energy. Almost to the point he looks like that cartoon Tassie Devil going a hundred miles a minute.
“What is it?” His legs are about half the size of mine, so his strides are fast and bouncy, which makes him look like an excitable puppy.
“You trying to win back brownie points for being a dick earlier, or you trying to get me to put out?”
“Would that even work?” I ask.
He hesitates just a fraction before leaning in and whispering, “After that kiss? I don’t even need the dinner.”
Oh, holy mother of hell. Where did this guy come from?
My lips quirk. “What if I’m just mesmerised by you and can’t find any words to say?”
Marty pulls back, with an almost shocked expression clouding his face. “Wow, you’re really trying to get lucky tonight, aren’t you?”
“And what do you think your man will say if he finds out you’ve been kissing a much better-looking guy tonight?”
Marty shrugs. “Have to kiss some toads before I meet my prince.”
There’s that damn mouthy attitude that I somehow find charming.
Without warning, he picks me up and tosses me over his shoulder.
Instead of protesting about my legs being in working order, I go a different route. “I demand this is how I travel from now on. My feet shall never touch the ground again.”
Luce smirks. “All I’ve been thinking about all fucking night is that pretty mouth of yours. I want your lips wrapped around my cock. If you’re okay with that, then I’ll let you do whatever the hell you want to me afterwards. Fuck me, rim me, demand I suck you off … hell, mug me for all I care—”
I laugh.
but as I push against his hole, a hand reaches out for mine.
“Just … it’s been a while … okay?” He sounds unsure now it’s my dick and not my fingers.
“I won’t hurt you,” I promise him.
He nods and releases me, and as I slowly enter him, I feel him push against the intrusion and hold his breath.
“The old guy’s a snuggler, huh?” I can’t help myself.
A meaty hand pinches my ass, and I’m working out that’s his go-to move when I’m giving him attitude.
He throws his arm around me and then a leg, clinging to me like my very own koala.
He gestures to the door where Wayne left. “He shouldn’t be treating you like a rent boy.”
Wait … did I miss something?
Something flashes in Jay’s eyes, but he schools it. “That’s what happens on tour. People get lonely.” He shrugs. “It’s not a big deal.”
Whoa, he’s fucking the surly, older guy? How did Luce pick up on that?
“Three beers, and I want you to meet someone. This is Jay.” I pull Jay forward. “From Radioactive.”
Gray’s smile drops, and he glances between me and Jay. “No fucking way.”
I nod. “Way. Told you he’d jump offstage and fall at my feet.”
*
A growl comes from my other side, but Luce reins it in. That is until Jay cups my face and pulls my lips to his.
It takes a second to register what’s happening, but then it clicks.
Jay’s mouth is on mine.
Jay.
From Radioactive.
His tongue teases my lips, but I don’t open for him.
*
He pulls back and nods to Gray. “Totally irresistible.”
Apparently, that’s too much for Luce to handle, and he steps in between us. “Okay, fun time’s over.” He turns to Jay. “That’s the only one you get.”
He throws up his hands in surrender and laughs. “You got it, boss.”
Luce’s arms hold me possessively. “Mine.”
My brow furrows as I look up at him. “Did you just claim me?”
“Yup.”
“I’m so confused,” Gray says.
I wave him off. “That really is Jay. But this is Luce.”
“Faster.”
I do as he says.
“Harder,” he begs.
Gripping his hair, I close my fist through the short strands and tug.
“Oh, fuck.” Marty trembles beneath me. His ass pulses around my cock. “I’m … I’m …” He lets go, and I feel it in the way his body tenses and shudders.
“Nothing hotter than a guy coming hands-free.”
I … I’ve missed you.”
“Then where was my phone call, asshole?”
I’ve had a million offers since arriving in L.A. When the band plays shows and people realise you can get them backstage? Yeah, people throw themselves at you. There was even one girl who, when I told her I was gay, turned to her boyfriend and got him to come offer to blow me.
Shifting so he’s crawling on top of me, he kisses me and rubs his hand over my hardening dick until I’m gasping for more.
“No fucking on the deck chairs!” Jay yells from somewhere in the house.
uzivala sam
{luce & marty}
20/01/26 reread
_____
The guy who’s supposedly my date for the night bounds up to the stage in an excited ball of energy. Almost to the point he looks like that cartoon Tassie Devil going a hundred miles a minute.
“What is it?” His legs are about half the size of mine, so his strides are fast and bouncy, which makes him look like an excitable puppy.
“You trying to win back brownie points for being a dick earlier, or you trying to get me to put out?”
“Would that even work?” I ask.
He hesitates just a fraction before leaning in and whispering, “After that kiss? I don’t even need the dinner.”
Oh, holy mother of hell. Where did this guy come from?
My lips quirk. “What if I’m just mesmerised by you and can’t find any words to say?”
Marty pulls back, with an almost shocked expression clouding his face. “Wow, you’re really trying to get lucky tonight, aren’t you?”
“And what do you think your man will say if he finds out you’ve been kissing a much better-looking guy tonight?”
Marty shrugs. “Have to kiss some toads before I meet my prince.”
There’s that damn mouthy attitude that I somehow find charming.
Without warning, he picks me up and tosses me over his shoulder.
Instead of protesting about my legs being in working order, I go a different route. “I demand this is how I travel from now on. My feet shall never touch the ground again.”
Luce smirks. “All I’ve been thinking about all fucking night is that pretty mouth of yours. I want your lips wrapped around my cock. If you’re okay with that, then I’ll let you do whatever the hell you want to me afterwards. Fuck me, rim me, demand I suck you off … hell, mug me for all I care—”
I laugh.
but as I push against his hole, a hand reaches out for mine.
“Just … it’s been a while … okay?” He sounds unsure now it’s my dick and not my fingers.
“I won’t hurt you,” I promise him.
He nods and releases me, and as I slowly enter him, I feel him push against the intrusion and hold his breath.
“The old guy’s a snuggler, huh?” I can’t help myself.
A meaty hand pinches my ass, and I’m working out that’s his go-to move when I’m giving him attitude.
He throws his arm around me and then a leg, clinging to me like my very own koala.
He gestures to the door where Wayne left. “He shouldn’t be treating you like a rent boy.”
Wait … did I miss something?
Something flashes in Jay’s eyes, but he schools it. “That’s what happens on tour. People get lonely.” He shrugs. “It’s not a big deal.”
Whoa, he’s fucking the surly, older guy? How did Luce pick up on that?
“Three beers, and I want you to meet someone. This is Jay.” I pull Jay forward. “From Radioactive.”
Gray’s smile drops, and he glances between me and Jay. “No fucking way.”
I nod. “Way. Told you he’d jump offstage and fall at my feet.”
*
A growl comes from my other side, but Luce reins it in. That is until Jay cups my face and pulls my lips to his.
It takes a second to register what’s happening, but then it clicks.
Jay’s mouth is on mine.
Jay.
From Radioactive.
His tongue teases my lips, but I don’t open for him.
*
He pulls back and nods to Gray. “Totally irresistible.”
Apparently, that’s too much for Luce to handle, and he steps in between us. “Okay, fun time’s over.” He turns to Jay. “That’s the only one you get.”
He throws up his hands in surrender and laughs. “You got it, boss.”
Luce’s arms hold me possessively. “Mine.”
My brow furrows as I look up at him. “Did you just claim me?”
“Yup.”
“I’m so confused,” Gray says.
I wave him off. “That really is Jay. But this is Luce.”
“Faster.”
I do as he says.
“Harder,” he begs.
Gripping his hair, I close my fist through the short strands and tug.
“Oh, fuck.” Marty trembles beneath me. His ass pulses around my cock. “I’m … I’m …” He lets go, and I feel it in the way his body tenses and shudders.
“Nothing hotter than a guy coming hands-free.”
I … I’ve missed you.”
“Then where was my phone call, asshole?”
I’ve had a million offers since arriving in L.A. When the band plays shows and people realise you can get them backstage? Yeah, people throw themselves at you. There was even one girl who, when I told her I was gay, turned to her boyfriend and got him to come offer to blow me.
Shifting so he’s crawling on top of me, he kisses me and rubs his hand over my hardening dick until I’m gasping for more.
“No fucking on the deck chairs!” Jay yells from somewhere in the house.
November 6, 2021
Marty is exactly what this series needed at this stage! ... But he and Luce needed a full novel.
Besides the fun chemistry that they bring, their story really was too complicated to be told in 100+ words. Their small separation does not account for all the risk both of them took after a terrible concert and a one night stand.
This was probably the first book that made me settle and feel like yes M/M romance! ... and it might have to do with them both being gay for more than a month.
Also, I loved the Aussie setting and it's so clear by the passion and lingo that Eden was at ease in her space. Australia.
I have been waiting for Jet's book since we met him but it seems like he is in a terrible place. I could pause for a little more Marty and Luce and I sure hope we get to see more of them in Hat Trick.
Besides the fun chemistry that they bring, their story really was too complicated to be told in 100+ words. Their small separation does not account for all the risk both of them took after a terrible concert and a one night stand.
This was probably the first book that made me settle and feel like yes M/M romance! ... and it might have to do with them both being gay for more than a month.
Also, I loved the Aussie setting and it's so clear by the passion and lingo that Eden was at ease in her space. Australia.
I have been waiting for Jet's book since we met him but it seems like he is in a terrible place. I could pause for a little more Marty and Luce and I sure hope we get to see more of them in Hat Trick.
February 27, 2024
Always love to see Jay / Jet, but damn this was weird… i didn’t like the age gap much but it went so fast it’s not even funny. But now I am excited for Jet’s book, even though I have doubts about his pairing with Soren and know it’s not my thing.
December 17, 2025
I can't believe i almost liked this book. When it was a one year gap, even as an age gap romance (my least favorite), I thought it was cute because the degree was being put on hold for one year.
Then I got to the end. I hate that Marty tossed off a PhD with about a year left to follow a band and be with his BF. Luce gave up nothing and got everything. Marty gave up an almost complete degree to be an assistant and fetch pepsi. He also felt liie he "had" to stay to make sure Jay didn't date Harley, as though he was the only person who could help. He'll, he told Ouce, and Luce couod watch Jay while Marty finished his PhD then came back a year later to be an assistant at a full concert, not one where Radioactive was opening act.
The entire idea of a partner asking such a thing is antithetical to anything I would ever do. Then again, I put both on hold for romance, so personal experience has shown me how much putting your career and relocating for your new man screws you over after a couple of years. The jobs you turned down, the education you didn't finish, the home you built in a community only to discover they chose him bc of work. Ugh.
Then I got to the end. I hate that Marty tossed off a PhD with about a year left to follow a band and be with his BF. Luce gave up nothing and got everything. Marty gave up an almost complete degree to be an assistant and fetch pepsi. He also felt liie he "had" to stay to make sure Jay didn't date Harley, as though he was the only person who could help. He'll, he told Ouce, and Luce couod watch Jay while Marty finished his PhD then came back a year later to be an assistant at a full concert, not one where Radioactive was opening act.
The entire idea of a partner asking such a thing is antithetical to anything I would ever do. Then again, I put both on hold for romance, so personal experience has shown me how much putting your career and relocating for your new man screws you over after a couple of years. The jobs you turned down, the education you didn't finish, the home you built in a community only to discover they chose him bc of work. Ugh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2024
This was the only story in series that I needed to read and I really don't know what took me solong to read it it was cute and funny.
I loved to see the band again, the beginning. Marty is very observant, the way he figured out what is going on with Jay.
I loved to see the band again, the beginning. Marty is very observant, the way he figured out what is going on with Jay.
May 21, 2024
I will finish this book today but already rating it. An LGBTQIA+ book that mentions Harry Potter in a positive light while it has no added value to the story? No.
Reminder that there are authors who have re-edited their books to remove HP references. Support our trans family and their rights.
Reminder that there are authors who have re-edited their books to remove HP references. Support our trans family and their rights.
April 18, 2025
I was not expecting to love this as much as I did! The MMCs were two new characters to the series so I didn’t have high hopes but I was instantly invested in their story! Also LOVED the foreshadowing to the next book
May 18, 2022
A M É conocer de cerca la historia de Luce y Marty
October 7, 2022
No es para mí😬 ni la diferencia de edad ni el tema de la industria de la música
March 1, 2023
De las historias cortas la mejor.
No se porque no la leí antes
Luce😍
No se porque no la leí antes
Luce😍
April 30, 2023
Meh 🤷🏼♀️ this one didn't do it for me. But I'm extra excited for Jets book now
April 4, 2024
so good los amé
April 10, 2024
1.25 ⭐️
April 23, 2022
3.5 ☆
Esta historia corta es muy disfrutable. Sí es verdad que, aunque en general, las cosas van superrápido; igualmente, me cayeron bien Luce y Marty y me gustó su historia.
Como son personajes que aparecen por primera vez, pues es más difícil tomarles cariño en tan pocas páginas,); sin embargo, me encantará verlos en el siguiente libro.
Esta historia corta es muy disfrutable. Sí es verdad que, aunque en general, las cosas van superrápido; igualmente, me cayeron bien Luce y Marty y me gustó su historia.
Como son personajes que aparecen por primera vez, pues es más difícil tomarles cariño en tan pocas páginas,); sin embargo, me encantará verlos en el siguiente libro.
February 20, 2024
What you'll get:
Age Gap
Coworkers
Setting: Australia
My disbelief was suspended so far it would have to repeat the year in detention. Strangers to lovers where they meet due to a charity auction, walk over to the concert with the tickets they won, get bored, bang, and miss the concert which is one of their reasons for living. The things I couldn't believe were that this man was an organizer of this festival and takes a total stranger on his goodwill/apology tour to hotel rooms of the bands the next morning.
I love this author but I kind of wish I hadn’t read this or It's Complicated from this new anthology.
Age Gap
Coworkers
Setting: Australia
My disbelief was suspended so far it would have to repeat the year in detention. Strangers to lovers where they meet due to a charity auction, walk over to the concert with the tickets they won, get bored, bang, and miss the concert which is one of their reasons for living. The things I couldn't believe were that this man was an organizer of this festival and takes a total stranger on his goodwill/apology tour to hotel rooms of the bands the next morning.
I love this author but I kind of wish I hadn’t read this or It's Complicated from this new anthology.
September 7, 2021
WINNING YOU was a little different than the prior books because Marty and Luce don't have any history and instead meet at a charity date auction. Things move quickly as they go from a snarky and antagonistic meeting to finding common ground in their appreciation of music. They fall hard and fast for each other but it's not easy because Luce's job puts them on separate continents. I really enjoyed these two and the preview we got of Jay (Jet), who will be our hero for the next book.
September 17, 2021
3.5 stars
This was a slightly strange addition to the series as both were new characters introduced. However it was a quite sweet instalove tale that set us up nicely for falling into Jet's world in book 5.
This was a slightly strange addition to the series as both were new characters introduced. However it was a quite sweet instalove tale that set us up nicely for falling into Jet's world in book 5.
December 27, 2021
„Winning you – Liebe im Takt“ von Eden Finley habe ich vom Second-Chances-Verlag erhalten und erscheint am 26. August 21.
Es ist eine Kurzgeschichte und zählt zur Fake-Boyfriend-Reihe.
Stell dir mal vor, du hast die Chance, Karten für ein Festival zu ergattern, auf dem deine Lieblingsband spielt? Eine Band, die kaum jemand in Australien kennt, von der du aber schon ein wenig besessen bist? Stell dir vor, du findest den Frontman ziemlich heiß und möchtest, nein musst, ihn einfach während dieses Festivals begegnen (weil du weißt, dass er sich Hals über Kopf in dich verliebt) 😉 Und nun stelle dir vor, du bist soooo kurz davor, aber tja, der Typ, mit dem du zu diesem Festival gehen musst (du hast immerhin die Karten als eine Art Date gewonnen), lenkt dich irgendwie ziemlich heftig ab und du verpasst die vermutlich einzige Chance, die Band jemals Live zu sehen …
Wie würdest du reagieren? (Du kannst natürlich das Geschlecht in diesem Szenarium selbst bestimmen, doch in diesem Fall geht es nicht nur um etwas Hypothetisches, sondern um Marty und Marty steht auf Jay, den Frontman der Band.
Wenn da nicht Luce wäre …
Ich mag die Geschichte sehr, sie ist ein guter Einstieg in die Fake-Boyfriend-Reihe von Eden Finey und man erhält einen tollen Einblick in das, was passiert oder passieren könnte.
Marty und Luce lernen sich mehr oder weniger zufällig kennen. Marty ist um einiges jünger als Luce, was beide nicht davon abhält einfach mal ordentlich zu sticheln und zu stänkern, was das Alter des jeweils anderen angeht …
Tatsächlich konnte ich mich gut in Marty hineinversetzen mit seinem Fanboy-sein und fand alles ziemlich realistisch. Da ich Musik selbst über alles Liebe, habe ich so mit Marty mitgefühlt – auch wenn er vermutlich besser reagiert hat, als ich es getan hätte, wenn ich meine Lieblingsband verpassen würde …
Apropos: Ob ich wohl Martys Anspielung auf Green Day verzeihen kann? War schon grenzwertig, aber toll, dass Luce sie mag oder mochte.
Und jupp, Martys Name kommt nicht von irgendwoher. Ihr seht, ein super Buch für mich mit all den Anspielungen …
Es ist ein Kurzroman, der aber wirklich alles beinhaltet, was wichtig ist und ich hatte wirklich das Gefühl, die Charaktere in diesem Buch gut kennengelernt zu haben. Den Schreibstil magich auch sehr. Schön flüssig und toll von Anne Hügel übersetzt.
Ob ich mir vorstellen kann, die anderen Bücher der Reihe zu lesen?
Ich denke schon. Bin neugierig, was alles geschehen wird oder bereits geschehen ist.
Im Dezember wird der 5. und scheinbar 6. (und Finale) Teil der Reihe erscheinen.
Folgende Bänder gibt es bereits:
Fake Out – Homerun für zwei – 1
Trick Play – Touchdown in Herz – 2
Deke – Was sich liebt, das checkt sich – 3
Blindsided – Spielplan für die Liebe – 4 – erscheint am 18.8.21
Hat Trick – Kaltes Eis, heiße Liebe – 5 erscheint am 16.12.21
Final Play – Happy End mal 10 – 6 – voraussichtlich am 16.12.21
Kurzromane:
It’s Complicated – Liebe leicht gemacht – erschien am 25.3.21
Winning you – Liebe im Takt – 26.8.21
Es ist eine Kurzgeschichte und zählt zur Fake-Boyfriend-Reihe.
Stell dir mal vor, du hast die Chance, Karten für ein Festival zu ergattern, auf dem deine Lieblingsband spielt? Eine Band, die kaum jemand in Australien kennt, von der du aber schon ein wenig besessen bist? Stell dir vor, du findest den Frontman ziemlich heiß und möchtest, nein musst, ihn einfach während dieses Festivals begegnen (weil du weißt, dass er sich Hals über Kopf in dich verliebt) 😉 Und nun stelle dir vor, du bist soooo kurz davor, aber tja, der Typ, mit dem du zu diesem Festival gehen musst (du hast immerhin die Karten als eine Art Date gewonnen), lenkt dich irgendwie ziemlich heftig ab und du verpasst die vermutlich einzige Chance, die Band jemals Live zu sehen …
Wie würdest du reagieren? (Du kannst natürlich das Geschlecht in diesem Szenarium selbst bestimmen, doch in diesem Fall geht es nicht nur um etwas Hypothetisches, sondern um Marty und Marty steht auf Jay, den Frontman der Band.
Wenn da nicht Luce wäre …
Ich mag die Geschichte sehr, sie ist ein guter Einstieg in die Fake-Boyfriend-Reihe von Eden Finey und man erhält einen tollen Einblick in das, was passiert oder passieren könnte.
Marty und Luce lernen sich mehr oder weniger zufällig kennen. Marty ist um einiges jünger als Luce, was beide nicht davon abhält einfach mal ordentlich zu sticheln und zu stänkern, was das Alter des jeweils anderen angeht …
Tatsächlich konnte ich mich gut in Marty hineinversetzen mit seinem Fanboy-sein und fand alles ziemlich realistisch. Da ich Musik selbst über alles Liebe, habe ich so mit Marty mitgefühlt – auch wenn er vermutlich besser reagiert hat, als ich es getan hätte, wenn ich meine Lieblingsband verpassen würde …
Apropos: Ob ich wohl Martys Anspielung auf Green Day verzeihen kann? War schon grenzwertig, aber toll, dass Luce sie mag oder mochte.
Und jupp, Martys Name kommt nicht von irgendwoher. Ihr seht, ein super Buch für mich mit all den Anspielungen …
Es ist ein Kurzroman, der aber wirklich alles beinhaltet, was wichtig ist und ich hatte wirklich das Gefühl, die Charaktere in diesem Buch gut kennengelernt zu haben. Den Schreibstil magich auch sehr. Schön flüssig und toll von Anne Hügel übersetzt.
Ob ich mir vorstellen kann, die anderen Bücher der Reihe zu lesen?
Ich denke schon. Bin neugierig, was alles geschehen wird oder bereits geschehen ist.
Im Dezember wird der 5. und scheinbar 6. (und Finale) Teil der Reihe erscheinen.
Folgende Bänder gibt es bereits:
Fake Out – Homerun für zwei – 1
Trick Play – Touchdown in Herz – 2
Deke – Was sich liebt, das checkt sich – 3
Blindsided – Spielplan für die Liebe – 4 – erscheint am 18.8.21
Hat Trick – Kaltes Eis, heiße Liebe – 5 erscheint am 16.12.21
Final Play – Happy End mal 10 – 6 – voraussichtlich am 16.12.21
Kurzromane:
It’s Complicated – Liebe leicht gemacht – erschien am 25.3.21
Winning you – Liebe im Takt – 26.8.21
August 13, 2025
4.5 stars.
Luce works for Joystar, Jet’s record company, and has organized the festival in Australia where Radioactive played before they started touring with Eleven. He was not allowed to attend and manage there though because of too much overtime hours, the task being given to Amanda, his second in command.
He won tickets to attend the festival in a blind date raffle, and went there with Marty who’s a Radioactive fanboy.
In the end they hooked up and missed the concert, but the festival having gone down in terms of organisation, he seized the opportunity to meet the band with Marty, and offers to become their manager.
Luce then spends two months in the USA without much contacting Marty and even missing his birthday before he offers him to join the band as his assistant. Thank goodness this is only summarized in half a chapter because I didn’t like that part. I actually wish Marty had given him a bit of a rougher time.
Nonetheless I absolutely loved these two characters, how they instantly connected. I can’t even explain their chemistry, they just matched, so I guess the author did a great job describing their attraction. Really a cute story.
Characters:
Luce: 32yo, looks older with grays, works for Joystar and becomes Radioactive manager
Marty: 23yo nerdy, in a PhD in molecular engineering, looks younger
Angst/frustration: low
End: not rushed. Perfect for a novella.
Series
Fake boyfriend series
1/ Fake Out: Maddox (marketing) and Damon (injured baseball player). 4.5 stars
2/ Trick Play: Matt (football player) and Noah (trustfund / charity). 4 stars
2.5/ Rebound: Aron and Wyatt. 2.5 stars
3/ Deke: Ollie (hockey player) and Lennon (reporter). 4 stars
3.5/ It’s Complicated: Ash (Ollie’s ex) and Max (Ollie’s big brother) . 3 stars
4/ Blindsided: Miller and Talon (football players in Chicago with Matt). 4 stars
4.5/ Winning You: Marty and Luce. 4.5 stars
5/ Hat Trick: Soren and Jet 3.5 stars
Final Play
Luce works for Joystar, Jet’s record company, and has organized the festival in Australia where Radioactive played before they started touring with Eleven. He was not allowed to attend and manage there though because of too much overtime hours, the task being given to Amanda, his second in command.
He won tickets to attend the festival in a blind date raffle, and went there with Marty who’s a Radioactive fanboy.
In the end they hooked up and missed the concert, but the festival having gone down in terms of organisation, he seized the opportunity to meet the band with Marty, and offers to become their manager.
Luce then spends two months in the USA without much contacting Marty and even missing his birthday before he offers him to join the band as his assistant. Thank goodness this is only summarized in half a chapter because I didn’t like that part. I actually wish Marty had given him a bit of a rougher time.
Nonetheless I absolutely loved these two characters, how they instantly connected. I can’t even explain their chemistry, they just matched, so I guess the author did a great job describing their attraction. Really a cute story.
Characters:
Luce: 32yo, looks older with grays, works for Joystar and becomes Radioactive manager
Marty: 23yo nerdy, in a PhD in molecular engineering, looks younger
Angst/frustration: low
End: not rushed. Perfect for a novella.
Series
Fake boyfriend series
1/ Fake Out: Maddox (marketing) and Damon (injured baseball player). 4.5 stars
2/ Trick Play: Matt (football player) and Noah (trustfund / charity). 4 stars
2.5/ Rebound: Aron and Wyatt. 2.5 stars
3/ Deke: Ollie (hockey player) and Lennon (reporter). 4 stars
3.5/ It’s Complicated: Ash (Ollie’s ex) and Max (Ollie’s big brother) . 3 stars
4/ Blindsided: Miller and Talon (football players in Chicago with Matt). 4 stars
4.5/ Winning You: Marty and Luce. 4.5 stars
5/ Hat Trick: Soren and Jet 3.5 stars
Final Play
March 26, 2023
Marty und Luce gewinnen Freikarten für ein Musik Festival und sollen es als Blinde Date besuchen. Während Marty nur scharf auf die Karten ist, weil dort seine Lieblingsband Radioactive spielt, gehört Luce eigentlich zum Veranstaltungsteam. Jedoch wurde er freigestellt und er befürchtet - zurecht - ein Desaster. Mit jemanden wie Marty hat er jedoch nicht gerechnet und Luce ist sofort von dem Nerd, mit der großen Klappe, fasziniert. Und auch Marty kann nicht verbergen, dass Luce ihn irgendwie anmacht.
Während Marty für die Wissenschaft und seine Forschung brennt, ist das Feuer der Begeisterung für seinen Job in Luce schon längst auf Sparflamme. Marty und seine Begeisterung für die Musik und vor allem für Jay und die Bad Radioactive weckt in ihm wieder seine ursprüngliche Leidenschaft für die Musik und das Business.
Die Geschichte spielt über einen relativ kurzen Zeitraum und sie wird auch sehr flott und amüsant erzählt. Ein paar Seiten mehr hätten der Geschichte nicht geschadet, doch die Helden sind einfach sympathisch und liebenswürdig. Im zweiten Drittel gibt es natürlich ein wenig Drama, das jetzt nicht unbedingt hätte sein müssen. Aber wirklich gestört hat es mich auch nicht. Immerhin hat es doch auch aufgezeigt, dass auch jemand wie Luce, der doch ziemlich abgeklärt ist, nur ein Mensch ist.
Jay, der Leadsinger von Radioactive, ist der Bruder von Matt Jackson und dem Leser ja schon bekannt. Diese Kurzgeschichte bildet also den Auftakt bzw. Vorgeschichte zu seiner eigenen Geschichte, die in Band 5 der Reihe erzählt wird. Man kann die Bücher natürlich auch unabhängig von einander lesen. Aber es macht doch mehr Sinn diese Kurzgeschichte vor der Geschichte Jays/Jets zu lesen.
Während Marty für die Wissenschaft und seine Forschung brennt, ist das Feuer der Begeisterung für seinen Job in Luce schon längst auf Sparflamme. Marty und seine Begeisterung für die Musik und vor allem für Jay und die Bad Radioactive weckt in ihm wieder seine ursprüngliche Leidenschaft für die Musik und das Business.
Die Geschichte spielt über einen relativ kurzen Zeitraum und sie wird auch sehr flott und amüsant erzählt. Ein paar Seiten mehr hätten der Geschichte nicht geschadet, doch die Helden sind einfach sympathisch und liebenswürdig. Im zweiten Drittel gibt es natürlich ein wenig Drama, das jetzt nicht unbedingt hätte sein müssen. Aber wirklich gestört hat es mich auch nicht. Immerhin hat es doch auch aufgezeigt, dass auch jemand wie Luce, der doch ziemlich abgeklärt ist, nur ein Mensch ist.
Jay, der Leadsinger von Radioactive, ist der Bruder von Matt Jackson und dem Leser ja schon bekannt. Diese Kurzgeschichte bildet also den Auftakt bzw. Vorgeschichte zu seiner eigenen Geschichte, die in Band 5 der Reihe erzählt wird. Man kann die Bücher natürlich auch unabhängig von einander lesen. Aber es macht doch mehr Sinn diese Kurzgeschichte vor der Geschichte Jays/Jets zu lesen.
April 18, 2025
It's hard to rate novellas 5 stars when there isn't as much substance as a novel, but Winning You was the exception. It starts with Marty, a nerdy PhD student, subjecting himself to the horrors of a blind date in the hopes he will be chosen to receive festival passes to see the band Radioactive. He does win the passes, but they come saddled with Luce, a man 10 years his senior and who seems annoying at best. But both need access to this music festival, so off they go. What neither Marty nor Luce expect is to enjoy the high speed banter that happens between them, and after a sudden, scorching kiss, neither can deny the attraction there either. But Luce is keeping a secret, and when he reveals his true self to Marty, Marty helps him realize that he's just been going through the motions. But now if Luce reaches out to take back his dream, it might mean leaving Marty behind. And even though it's crazy to throw everything away for a man he just met, Luce isn't sure what his choice should be. Will Marty forgive him, or will he lose out on one dream in favor of another?
Okay. This novella was super sweet and spicy. I felt that the plot was good and it really kept me invested in the characters. I loved Marty and Luce's banter, and it kept me laughing as well as melting my heart. The spice was great, the feels were real, and I loved the cameos from the rest of the Fake Boyfriend series.
If this is the prequel to what comes next, I can't wait! Alexander Cendese and Iggy Toma narrate. 5/5 🌟
Okay. This novella was super sweet and spicy. I felt that the plot was good and it really kept me invested in the characters. I loved Marty and Luce's banter, and it kept me laughing as well as melting my heart. The spice was great, the feels were real, and I loved the cameos from the rest of the Fake Boyfriend series.
If this is the prequel to what comes next, I can't wait! Alexander Cendese and Iggy Toma narrate. 5/5 🌟
January 26, 2025
When I first started reading, I was so confused about who these people were and why this book was next in the Sadenverse lineup. Like, was I missing something? But by chapter two, I completely forgot all of that because I was too busy loving the story.
This novella? Fast-paced and addictive. It starts with the intention of a one-night stand but quickly spirals into infatuation, longing, and—yep—love. Of course, when you fall for the characters, you always want more of their story (longer books, please!), but honestly, this one gave us exactly what we needed to bridge from Book 4 to Book 5 in the Sadenverse.
If you want a quick, feel-good MM novella, grab this one. Seriously, you don’t even need to read the other books to enjoy it! BUT, if you’re already into the Fake Boyfriends series or the Sadenverse, you cannot skip this. It’s packed with all the good stuff: opposites attract, both characters having ulterior motives, a sweet little age gap (and OMG how they play off of it is adorable). Plus, they’re already confident in their sexuality, so the focus is purely on building their relationship. Chef’s kiss.
Also, a quick shoutout to the dual narration—if you’re an audiobook fan, run to Hoopla because all three of the “.5s” in this series are bundled in one audiobook. The narrators absolutely crushed it, giving each character such distinct voices that you’ll be laughing and swooning your way through the entire thing.
This novella? Fast-paced and addictive. It starts with the intention of a one-night stand but quickly spirals into infatuation, longing, and—yep—love. Of course, when you fall for the characters, you always want more of their story (longer books, please!), but honestly, this one gave us exactly what we needed to bridge from Book 4 to Book 5 in the Sadenverse.
If you want a quick, feel-good MM novella, grab this one. Seriously, you don’t even need to read the other books to enjoy it! BUT, if you’re already into the Fake Boyfriends series or the Sadenverse, you cannot skip this. It’s packed with all the good stuff: opposites attract, both characters having ulterior motives, a sweet little age gap (and OMG how they play off of it is adorable). Plus, they’re already confident in their sexuality, so the focus is purely on building their relationship. Chef’s kiss.
Also, a quick shoutout to the dual narration—if you’re an audiobook fan, run to Hoopla because all three of the “.5s” in this series are bundled in one audiobook. The narrators absolutely crushed it, giving each character such distinct voices that you’ll be laughing and swooning your way through the entire thing.
January 5, 2024
In this short novella, we get Marty and Luce's story. They are new characters, but who they interact with aren't so new. Marty and Luce both enter a charity raffle with the hopes of winning tickets to a music festival. Two winners are chosen to go on a date at the festival that night. Both have different reasons for wanting to go the festival. For Marty, it's to meet Jay from Radioactive. And if you have been keeping up with the series, you know Jay (aka Jet) is Matt's brother who wants to play music for a living. And so far he is succeeding but not everything is great just yet. Marty loves the band and may also have a bit of a crush on Jay. As for Luce, he was in charge of the music festival until his partner basically backstabbed him and he wasn't allowed to check in on things. But he can't stay away. Well Luce and Marty get their wish and win the tickets. But their first conversation doesn't go exactly how either pictured. They don't hit it off right away but as they make their way to festival and spend some time together, they'll start to realize that maybe there is something between them. These two were great! The banter was fantastic and they just balanced one another so well. And their roles here won't end when it comes to Radioactive. Looking forward to hearing about them again in Jay's book!
August 1, 2023
Historia corta que sirve como introducción del quinto libro de la saga Fake Boyfriend, escrita por Eden Finley.
Marty y Luce se conocen al ganar una cita a ciegas en una rifa, que consiste en ir juntos a un festival de música. Cada uno tiene sus motivos ocultos para querer ir, pero ninguno está realmente interesado en la cita a ciegas. Marty es un joven científico que está haciendo su doctorado y está platónicamente enamorado del cantante principal de un grupo semi-desconocido, Jet (hermano de Matt, que protagonizó el segundo libro de la saga). Tiene la esperanza que cuando le vea entre el público ese amor se vuelva recíproco. Luce es más mayor, está quemado por su trabajo en una discográfica y es el organizador del festival y ha sido apartado por una compañera que quiere quedarse con su logro.
En mi opinión 100+ páginas no son suficientes para esta pareja, las cosas van bastante rápido y se merecían un desarrollo de su historia un poco mayor. Aún así, entiendo que es una historia corta y la recomiendo mucho porque sirve de perfecta introducción y para poner muy bien en contexto el libro 5 de la saga. Marty y Luce son adorables y divertidos y se les coge cariño.
#M-M-romance #Age-gap
Marty y Luce se conocen al ganar una cita a ciegas en una rifa, que consiste en ir juntos a un festival de música. Cada uno tiene sus motivos ocultos para querer ir, pero ninguno está realmente interesado en la cita a ciegas. Marty es un joven científico que está haciendo su doctorado y está platónicamente enamorado del cantante principal de un grupo semi-desconocido, Jet (hermano de Matt, que protagonizó el segundo libro de la saga). Tiene la esperanza que cuando le vea entre el público ese amor se vuelva recíproco. Luce es más mayor, está quemado por su trabajo en una discográfica y es el organizador del festival y ha sido apartado por una compañera que quiere quedarse con su logro.
En mi opinión 100+ páginas no son suficientes para esta pareja, las cosas van bastante rápido y se merecían un desarrollo de su historia un poco mayor. Aún así, entiendo que es una historia corta y la recomiendo mucho porque sirve de perfecta introducción y para poner muy bien en contexto el libro 5 de la saga. Marty y Luce son adorables y divertidos y se les coge cariño.
#M-M-romance #Age-gap
December 8, 2021
**Spoilers thrown throughout this review**
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2021...
Errrmmmm so is Jay actually “Jet” from Radioactive orrrrrrr. Cause I’m getting that he is but I may not be so sure. 😩 but they just change is name to Jay and I do wonder why is that.
After reading that I do want to know if Jay is smashing one of the Eleven boys because I’m so curious…… let that be Jet 😂 even though I know it is…
If I don’t shut up I know I’m a talk about Jay through the whole review. So I’m a get to Marty and Luce. Because I liked the chemistry, I felt that they were both made for each other.
It’s funny how they both wanted those tickets for the wrong reasons. But ended up dating anyway. You know never what or who you might meet. That’ll led to a detour.
Plus I’m curious about Benji and whatever that boy name and the one with the F name 😂 I know I can’t remember it even though I read this book I don’t wanna know or care to think to hard.
But I do want to know their issues with each other plus I’m curious to see if Luce and Marty will be mentioned in Hat Trick or nah!!!
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2021...
Errrmmmm so is Jay actually “Jet” from Radioactive orrrrrrr. Cause I’m getting that he is but I may not be so sure. 😩 but they just change is name to Jay and I do wonder why is that.
After reading that I do want to know if Jay is smashing one of the Eleven boys because I’m so curious…… let that be Jet 😂 even though I know it is…
If I don’t shut up I know I’m a talk about Jay through the whole review. So I’m a get to Marty and Luce. Because I liked the chemistry, I felt that they were both made for each other.
It’s funny how they both wanted those tickets for the wrong reasons. But ended up dating anyway. You know never what or who you might meet. That’ll led to a detour.
Plus I’m curious about Benji and whatever that boy name and the one with the F name 😂 I know I can’t remember it even though I read this book I don’t wanna know or care to think to hard.
But I do want to know their issues with each other plus I’m curious to see if Luce and Marty will be mentioned in Hat Trick or nah!!!
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