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Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé
Resisting temptation with her fake fiancé is easier said than done for marketing executive Elle. Find out what happens in Kate Hardy’s incredible one hundredth Harlequin book.
A fiancé for the cameras…
…or forever?
In Kate Hardy’s one hundredth book, to secure her dream promotion, marketing executive Elle must put her childhood home on the map. Helping new manager Charlie promote Bluebell Farm as a new wedding venue is easy. Ignoring her chemistry with the brooding widower isn’t, especially when they become the focus of the campaign. Suddenly, everyone thinks their posed engagement is real! Playing along with the ruse is fun, until the lines blur and Elle’s tempted by a different dream…
From Harlequin Be swept away by glamorous and heartfelt love stories.
A fiancé for the cameras…
…or forever?
In Kate Hardy’s one hundredth book, to secure her dream promotion, marketing executive Elle must put her childhood home on the map. Helping new manager Charlie promote Bluebell Farm as a new wedding venue is easy. Ignoring her chemistry with the brooding widower isn’t, especially when they become the focus of the campaign. Suddenly, everyone thinks their posed engagement is real! Playing along with the ruse is fun, until the lines blur and Elle’s tempted by a different dream…
From Harlequin Be swept away by glamorous and heartfelt love stories.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2023
2 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hardy
809 books264 followersKate Hardy is the award-winning author of more than 100 books for Harlequin Mills & Boon and the Georgina Drake cozy crime series for Storm. Her novel 'Breakfast at Giovanni's' won the RNA Romance Prize in 2008, 'Bound by a Baby' won the RNA RoNA Rose in 2014 and ‘A Will, A Wish, A Wedding’ won the RNA Liberta Books Shorter Fiction award in 2021. She's been shortlisted six more times for the award, as well as for two Romantic Times awards.
She lives in Norwich in the east of England with her husband, two grown-up children, springer spaniels Archie and Dexter, and too many books to count. She's a bit of a nerd who loves cinema, live music, the theatre, ballet, history and cooking, and adores anything Italian. She loves doing research, particularly if it's hands-on and means experimenting with cooking. Reviewers say that her books are full of warmth, heart and charm - and also that you'll learn something new and interesting from them!
Kate also writes bestselling local history books under the name of Pamela Brooks.
She lives in Norwich in the east of England with her husband, two grown-up children, springer spaniels Archie and Dexter, and too many books to count. She's a bit of a nerd who loves cinema, live music, the theatre, ballet, history and cooking, and adores anything Italian. She loves doing research, particularly if it's hands-on and means experimenting with cooking. Reviewers say that her books are full of warmth, heart and charm - and also that you'll learn something new and interesting from them!
Kate also writes bestselling local history books under the name of Pamela Brooks.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 30, 2023
3 Stars.
Not my favourite Kate Hardy book, too much talking to random animals and themselves than actually talking to each other.
It was more sweet than steamy, which is expected with a M&B pink top, and I enjoyed the locale and farm descriptions. Not too stressful and an easy afternoons reading.
ARC provided via Netgalley.
Not my favourite Kate Hardy book, too much talking to random animals and themselves than actually talking to each other.
It was more sweet than steamy, which is expected with a M&B pink top, and I enjoyed the locale and farm descriptions. Not too stressful and an easy afternoons reading.
ARC provided via Netgalley.
January 26, 2023
This is a lovely, heartwarming Romance, which is what I always expect from this author. Congratulations to her on her 100th book..
Elle has left behind the trauma of her childhood and adolescence on a Norfolk farm to become a professional whizzkid of the PR scene in London. Returning to the farm at the request of the farm manager, Charlie,. Her task I’d to help publicise to the farm as it moves into a new way of working. For Elle, is a difficult journey.
Charlie has left the pressures of a London life after the death of his wife to recover in rural Norfolk..
They are attracted to one another, but being such vastly different people with opposing goals in life. It is hard to see that there might be a future for them..
This really is a delightful romance with two adults who behave in a way, which is both engaging and entertaining.
Elle has left behind the trauma of her childhood and adolescence on a Norfolk farm to become a professional whizzkid of the PR scene in London. Returning to the farm at the request of the farm manager, Charlie,. Her task I’d to help publicise to the farm as it moves into a new way of working. For Elle, is a difficult journey.
Charlie has left the pressures of a London life after the death of his wife to recover in rural Norfolk..
They are attracted to one another, but being such vastly different people with opposing goals in life. It is hard to see that there might be a future for them..
This really is a delightful romance with two adults who behave in a way, which is both engaging and entertaining.
January 28, 2023
Kate’s 100th book was beautiful and heartwarming. Elle is a PR guru in London who ran as far away from the bullying of her childhood as she possibly could. Widow Charlie is the new manager of Blue Bell Farm and he desperately needs Elle’s help and marketing skills. Elle agrees to help her parents and Charlie and thus begins the fake dating, fake relationship to sell the farm as a wedding destination. This one was really good, filled with emotions and sweetness and the warm comforting feeling I get when reading such a beautiful book with such well written characters you’ll fall in love with.
January 28, 2023
Tempted by Her fake Fiancé is a very good book. Loved the plot, setting and the characters. I definitely recommend this book. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
May 29, 2024
**Review: Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé by Kate Hardy**
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 out of 5 stars)
Kate Hardy’s *Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé* is a charming and enjoyable romance that delivers exactly what it promises—a fun, light-hearted escape into the world of fake relationships that might just become real. While it provides an entertaining read, it doesn't entirely stand out in a crowded genre, resulting in a solid but unexceptional experience.
The plot revolves around a classic romantic trope: the fake engagement. When two characters, driven by their own personal reasons, agree to pose as an engaged couple, sparks inevitably fly. Hardy’s portrayal of this dynamic is engaging, with plenty of chemistry and playful banter between the protagonists. The gradual development of their relationship from a mere arrangement to something more genuine is handled with warmth and charm.
Hardy's writing style is smooth and accessible, making the book a quick and easy read. The narrative flows well, and the dialogue is natural, helping to bring the characters to life. The settings, whether cozy or glamorous, are well-described and add to the overall enjoyment of the story.
However, the novel does fall into some predictable patterns. The fake engagement trope is well-trodden ground, and while Hardy executes it competently, there are few surprises. Readers familiar with this trope may find the plot developments foreseeable and the conflicts somewhat superficial. The resolution, though satisfying, follows a formulaic path that lacks the depth and originality that could have elevated the story.
Character development is another area where the book could have offered more. While the protagonists are likable and their chemistry is believable, their individual backstories and personal growth could have been explored more deeply. Secondary characters serve their roles well but do not leave a lasting impression.
Despite these minor flaws, *Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé* is a pleasant read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance looking for a light and entertaining story. It provides a heartwarming narrative that is perfect for a cozy afternoon.
In summary, *Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé* by Kate Hardy earns a solid three stars. It’s a delightful romance that, while predictable, offers engaging characters and a satisfying storyline. If you enjoy the fake engagement trope and are looking for a sweet, uncomplicated romance, this book is a good choice.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 out of 5 stars)
Kate Hardy’s *Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé* is a charming and enjoyable romance that delivers exactly what it promises—a fun, light-hearted escape into the world of fake relationships that might just become real. While it provides an entertaining read, it doesn't entirely stand out in a crowded genre, resulting in a solid but unexceptional experience.
The plot revolves around a classic romantic trope: the fake engagement. When two characters, driven by their own personal reasons, agree to pose as an engaged couple, sparks inevitably fly. Hardy’s portrayal of this dynamic is engaging, with plenty of chemistry and playful banter between the protagonists. The gradual development of their relationship from a mere arrangement to something more genuine is handled with warmth and charm.
Hardy's writing style is smooth and accessible, making the book a quick and easy read. The narrative flows well, and the dialogue is natural, helping to bring the characters to life. The settings, whether cozy or glamorous, are well-described and add to the overall enjoyment of the story.
However, the novel does fall into some predictable patterns. The fake engagement trope is well-trodden ground, and while Hardy executes it competently, there are few surprises. Readers familiar with this trope may find the plot developments foreseeable and the conflicts somewhat superficial. The resolution, though satisfying, follows a formulaic path that lacks the depth and originality that could have elevated the story.
Character development is another area where the book could have offered more. While the protagonists are likable and their chemistry is believable, their individual backstories and personal growth could have been explored more deeply. Secondary characters serve their roles well but do not leave a lasting impression.
Despite these minor flaws, *Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé* is a pleasant read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance looking for a light and entertaining story. It provides a heartwarming narrative that is perfect for a cozy afternoon.
In summary, *Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé* by Kate Hardy earns a solid three stars. It’s a delightful romance that, while predictable, offers engaging characters and a satisfying storyline. If you enjoy the fake engagement trope and are looking for a sweet, uncomplicated romance, this book is a good choice.
February 25, 2023
Kate Hardy’s 100th book, Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé, was a beautiful and heartwarming story. Elle left behind the trauma of her childhood and adolescence on her family Norfolk farm to become a PR guru in London. Charlie left the pressures of a London life after the death of his wife to recover in rural Norfolk. Charlie has become the new manager for Blue Bell Farm and he desperately needs Elle’s help and marketing skills. Elle agrees to help her parents and Charlie and thus begins the fake dating, fake relationship to sell the farm as a wedding destination. Elle was a charming character and you can sense the difficulties she encountered as a teenager. It was lovely to see her reconnect and find joy with her family home and business. Charlie has his own issues; however, Elle brings joy back into his life with her enthusiasm for the farm and its new role in the community.
Ms Hardy wrote a delightful romance filled with emotions, sweetness, and warmth that was both engaging and entertaining. This story is filled with magnetic attraction, sizzling chemistry, troubled pasts, and a supportive cast of secondary characters that is a must read story. I highly recommend Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms Hardy wrote a delightful romance filled with emotions, sweetness, and warmth that was both engaging and entertaining. This story is filled with magnetic attraction, sizzling chemistry, troubled pasts, and a supportive cast of secondary characters that is a must read story. I highly recommend Tempted by Her Fake Fiancé to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 26, 2023
This is a lovely, heartwarming Romance, which is what I always expect from this author. Congratulations to her on her 100th book..
Elle has left behind the trauma of her childhood and adolescence on a Norfolk farm to become a professional whizzkid of the PR scene in London. Returning to the farm at the request of the farm manager, Charlie,. Her task I’d to help publicise to the farm as it moves into a new way of working. For Elle, is a difficult journey.
Charlie has left the pressures of a London life after the death of his wife to recover in rural Norfolk..
They are attracted to one another, but being such vastly different people with opposing goals in life. It is hard to see that there might be a future for them..
This really is a delightful romance with two adults who behave in a way, which is both engaging and entertaining.
Elle has left behind the trauma of her childhood and adolescence on a Norfolk farm to become a professional whizzkid of the PR scene in London. Returning to the farm at the request of the farm manager, Charlie,. Her task I’d to help publicise to the farm as it moves into a new way of working. For Elle, is a difficult journey.
Charlie has left the pressures of a London life after the death of his wife to recover in rural Norfolk..
They are attracted to one another, but being such vastly different people with opposing goals in life. It is hard to see that there might be a future for them..
This really is a delightful romance with two adults who behave in a way, which is both engaging and entertaining.
January 22, 2023
Solid quick clean romance. I really enjoyed the setting of this story. This farm and nature was idealistic and it had so many fun romantic scenes. I really enjoyed the depth of the characters, with Elle's bullying issues to Charlies dealing with the death of his first wife. Getting the amount of description and well rounded characters in such a short book is hard but this author did really well. I loved that the "fake" romance wasn't really fake. That was. a new story line of having to pretend to be dating, engaged and married to promote the wedding venue on the farm. It made for some great tension between the characters. This was a quick perfect quick read with good characters development and easy not stressful romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2023
Marketing exec Elle and farm manager Charlie are working together to promote Bluebell Farm as a wedding venue. When they take promo photos posing as a bridal couple, rumors start that they're engaged for real. Will their relationship turn from business to pleasure?
This is a heartfelt and engaging romance that made me wish Bluebell Farm was a real place. Congrats to Kate Hardy on her 100th Harlequin book!
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is a heartfelt and engaging romance that made me wish Bluebell Farm was a real place. Congrats to Kate Hardy on her 100th Harlequin book!
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
May 10, 2023
*Thank you Net Galley and Harlequin for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This was my first Kate Hardy book and clearly I need to read some more (this was her 100th for Harlequin.) I love a good fake dating/fake fiancé story and this was no exception. I adored the cozy farm setting, the lovable characters and the final declaration of love was just perfect. If you are looking for a story that feels likea Hallmark movie (with a dash of spice) then look no further!
This was my first Kate Hardy book and clearly I need to read some more (this was her 100th for Harlequin.) I love a good fake dating/fake fiancé story and this was no exception. I adored the cozy farm setting, the lovable characters and the final declaration of love was just perfect. If you are looking for a story that feels likea Hallmark movie (with a dash of spice) then look no further!
February 2, 2023
Such a fantastic book, filled with beautiful rural charm and characters that you could identify with.
Elle was an engaging character and you could feel for her difficulties as a teenager. It was lovely to see her reconnect with her family home and business.
Charlie has his own issues, however Elle brings back joy in his life by her arrival and enthusiasm for the farm and it’s new role in the community.
A great read.
Elle was an engaging character and you could feel for her difficulties as a teenager. It was lovely to see her reconnect with her family home and business.
Charlie has his own issues, however Elle brings back joy in his life by her arrival and enthusiasm for the farm and it’s new role in the community.
A great read.
February 21, 2023
After a childhood of being called “Smelly Ellie Moo-ton,” Elle has avoided her family farm and built a posh London life. She’s thrilled when her boss promises her a promotion if she can make her new client’s marketing campaign go viral. The client turns out to be Charlie, a widower who was kind to her after an especially awful bullying incident and part owner of her family farm. Being back at home reminds her of all the things she loves about the farm and working with Charlie on the campaign is all kinds of wonderful. Plus there’s a certain spark between them. But she’s not sure she can give up her London life even for a chance at love with Charlie. Meanwhile, Charlie feels guilty at the prospect of starting a romantic relationship with Elle even though five years have passed since his wife’s death. Having found solace in the farm, he doesn’t desire to return to London and start a life there with Elle.
The farm, with its awesome amenities, fantastic foliage, and adorable animals, is practically a character in the story. As Elle and Charlie move through the world, the farm’s atmosphere turns romantic. In order to keep costs low, they decide to act as models to promote the farm as a wedding venue and the lines begin to blur between what’s faked for the camera and genuine feelings. I love this different spin on the fake relationship trope.
The secondary characters, the farm workers, Charlie’s sister, Elle’ parents, and her friends and coworkers in London do a nice job of peopling the world, but the spotlight never strays far from the couple. This book, which marks the author’s 100th publication, unfolds like a love letter to the romance community.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to Harlequin Enterprises ULC for providing an Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley.
The farm, with its awesome amenities, fantastic foliage, and adorable animals, is practically a character in the story. As Elle and Charlie move through the world, the farm’s atmosphere turns romantic. In order to keep costs low, they decide to act as models to promote the farm as a wedding venue and the lines begin to blur between what’s faked for the camera and genuine feelings. I love this different spin on the fake relationship trope.
The secondary characters, the farm workers, Charlie’s sister, Elle’ parents, and her friends and coworkers in London do a nice job of peopling the world, but the spotlight never strays far from the couple. This book, which marks the author’s 100th publication, unfolds like a love letter to the romance community.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to Harlequin Enterprises ULC for providing an Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley.
February 28, 2023
This is a Romance. I like the characters in this book, and I loved all the farm stuff in this book. I did not feel totally pulled into the storyline at all times while reading this book, and the characters took me a while to like. I just found this book to be ok. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Harlequin Romance) or author (Kate Hardy) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews