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The last thing that Makayla Michaels is looking for right now is love. She's too busy working to secure her promotion to editor-in-chief of Divine Mahogany Magazine. Unfortunately, she can't quite seem to make her family understand that. With her mother's wedding just around the corner, she's suddenly in need of the very thing she's been trying to avoid: a boyfriend.

Enter Reggie Johnson.

Reggie's finally taking a break from traveling the world to plant roots in his hometown. When he agreed to go out with Makayla, he never thought it'd end with her asking him to be her fake boyfriend, especially when she played him to the left after their first date. Maybe desperate times really do call for desperate measures.

Reggie agrees to Makayla's plan, but he has one of his own. For every fake date they go on with her family, Makayla agrees to let him take her on a real one. It's just unconventional enough to work. Besides, what's the worst that can happen? It's not like she's in any danger of falling in love for real... right?

275 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 18, 2022

85 people are currently reading
191 people want to read

About the author

Lady Marie

15 books122 followers
Lady Marie is the pen name of a thirty-something, DC native who is finally taking the plunge into writing contemporary romance. She has had a not-so-secret obsession with reading for as long as she can remember and a passion for creating worlds and telling stories that showcase just how beautiful Black love can be. When she’s not putting words to page, she can be found drinking a glass of wine, rewatching her comfort movies, reading the latest release from her favorite authors, or binging her current streaming obsession.

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5 stars
122 (56%)
4 stars
72 (33%)
3 stars
18 (8%)
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4 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Wobilba.
876 reviews137 followers
May 1, 2023
This book was not for me. Even the writing style was not my cuppa so maybe it’s just a me thing? *shrugs*

There were so many grammatical errors, the story was repetitive and boring, the dialogue felt stilted and the FMC was borderline rude and unlikeable.

The only reason I stuck with it was was the MMC, Reggie and even he lost his appeal towards the end.

Overall this was a very exhausting read *dramatic sigh*

This is my first read by this author and probably my very last.
Profile Image for ReadnliftwithShar.
1,877 reviews
February 22, 2023
#ntma

4.5⭐️ Worth It was definitely worth the read! I enjoyed this authors debut novel. It has a fake dating trope, good spice, and a happily ever after. Makayla is all work and no play; her demanding career keeps her from pursuing a relationship. Her family is destined to set her up, but so many failed blind dates and Makayla has had enough. Reggie is such a man! I was rooting for him to win over Makayla. He was patient, selfless, and passionate lover. The flow of the story was good; I loved their friendly banter and dates. It was clear that feelings were involved but Makayla was holding back- I wanted to knock some sense into her because why you playing with Reggie?? He fell first and I thought that was a good touch. I also loved their chemistry. I appreciated the family dynamics and the sisters finally communicating their issues. This was a good read for me.
Profile Image for Tya C..
373 reviews103 followers
October 11, 2022
This book was so cute!! I loved Reggie and Makayla together! Reggie is definitely a new favorite book boyfriend. He was so sweet and caring!

I loved that they went on so many dates! When I’m reading a romance book THAT’S what I want to see, adorable dates!

Fake dating is my favorite trope, but I loved the fresh spin the author put on it in this book, for every fake date they went on, Reggie got to take Makayla out on a real date. I loved that twist on the fake dating trope.

This definitely didn’t feel like a debut novel. The writing flowed so well, the characters were interesting, and the chemistry between the characters was great! I can’t wait to read more of Lady Marie’s books!

Thank you Lady Marie for this arc! All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,051 reviews117 followers
March 19, 2023
A nice first book

I don't have any real complaints with the story or the characters. The writing was pretty good for a first time author. The character development was good. I could see each character with a clear eye, with some more visible than others. Makayla's parts were up front and in your face. Reggie was cute and cuddly. I liked his laid back demeanor. The sisters story kept me wanting to know why Kendall was so bitter. I suspected her marriage was part of her snippiness. Overall, I enjoyed this first time author. I will be back for the other sister's story.
Profile Image for Shakila (BooksandThemes).
770 reviews36 followers
November 14, 2022
Let me tell you about the story of Makayla and Reggie. Makayla, is the middle child of 3 sisters. The only sister that is single and only focused on her work. She has no desire for a relationship, but always gets nagged by her sisters and mother-especially now that her mom is getting married soon. She needs a date to partake in the upcoming wedding festivities planned is what her mom and sisters are dead set on. Cue Reggie... Makayla's sister Lizzie sets her up on a blind date with Reggie. The date was surprisingly great. He was feeling her and she was feeling him. The chemistry was off the charts. But, Makayla shoots him down for a second date. Remember, Makayla does not have time for a relationship. However, when pressured, she comes up with the fake dating idea, and what better male specimen to use in the spur of the moment than Reggie...

Y'all, I loved EVERY minute! Makayla and Reggie's banter, chemistry, journey, everything. The spice level was 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶×bursting! I loved the sisters (but Kendall got on my nerves at times), and the momma. When I tell y'all Ms. Delilah was everything... loved her! I can't forget Reggie's best friends Lucas and Avery! The closeness of the family and friends dynamic was perfect. This was like reading someone's real life on the page!

What I loved about reading this book was that it read as if I was peeking in on Makayla, Reggie, family, and friends' real life and love story. Lady Marie wrote the story as if I were overhearing real people's lives being told and it made it 💯 believable! This does not read as a debut novel at all, and I cannot wait to read her next book!

So if you have not picked up the paperback, downloaded the Kindle, or whatever, do yourself a favor and run, don't walk and pick it up! It's "Worth It!"
Profile Image for tre be.
1,038 reviews130 followers
March 19, 2023
3.5 ⭐️

This was the February @indiespines book selection and it brought all of the hot romance vibes!! It was definitely worth being the book of the month for February’s romance theme!

The highlight of the book for me (and I think all of us) - REGGIE!!! Reggie was that dude, the epitome of BDE. The one with a cool, quiet confidence, sexy swagger, and skill to touch you in a way that makes your knees go weak. Sheesh! The seggsss was everything!! And, even more, were the well creative, fun filled dates that Reggie planned out! He was the kinda guy who could walk into any room and win anyone over with his charm and charisma!

I also loved all of the events and activities leading up to the wedding for Mikayla’s mom. They had a lot of family fun, and bonding leading up to the big day and I would’ve loved being apart of it!!

It took me some time to adjust to Mikayla. I’m not sure how she will prioritize Reggie in the longterm since she’s all about her work. I did enjoy the sibling drama that happened throughout, that was so relatable!!

The whole fake dating thing was ok; I’m usually not a fan, but I liked the spin of a real date for each fake date. I felt like Reggie was the one doing all of the giving and Mikayla was just taking with no efforts on her part. Reggie deserved to be treated like THE man because he most definitely was! I just want to tell Reggie::: Come here rude boy, boy, take it take it love me love me 🎶😘
Profile Image for Coco Harris.
725 reviews8 followers
February 25, 2023
This was a quick and steamy read. I loved the romance between Makayla and Reggie and the whole fake dating trope is a fun one I love to read. I can easily see this story being a cute film adaptation with the family drama and supporting cast being equally as intriguing. The spicy scenes were done so well and kept me swooning. I know some find Makayla annoying at times, but I really loved her and found her character super relatable. I did feel like the love teetered on an insta love, and there were a few cringe moments regarding conversations with Makayla and her Mom, and I craved a few more pre-wedding date scenes. But the sister dynamic was done really well & I’d read more of this author/series!
Profile Image for Mel.
867 reviews31 followers
November 14, 2022
This was cute. I loved how organic and natural Reggie and Makayla felt as a couple and how many dates they went on. There were quite a few spicy scenes, so if that's your thing, then you might wanna check out this book.

There was a third act semi break up that I wasn't the hugest fan of, but it got resolved pretty quickly and realistically so it didn't deter me from the story.

It did have some repetitive moments when it came to the Makayla "tucking in her her bottom lip" but other than that, this was a pretty solid debut and I really enjoyed it. Very interested to see which sister we follow next (I hope it's Kendall!) and to see what happens
Profile Image for Nikita.
346 reviews17 followers
February 26, 2023
Worth It

This was a twist on pretend dating coupled with real dating. I liked this twist cause we got to see Makayla and Reggie’s feelings gradually grow for each other throughout all their dates, ‘pretend’ and real. The connection between Makayla and Reggie was entrancing and the sex was alluring. I could feel the energy between them through the pages. Now Makayla was starting to annoy me. However, the author was great at showing her internal struggle so I understood. When Makayla finally realized her fear of committed relationships, taking a risk with love was when HEA became a reality.
Profile Image for Tina.
960 reviews157 followers
October 30, 2022
4 😍😍🌶🌶

I really enjoyed this story; I am looking forward to reading more from this author.

Trope: fake dating, guy falls first, blind date

Enjoyment: 4⭐

Character development: 4⭐

Romance: 3.5 ⭐

Heat\steam: 4 ⭐

Intrigue: 4 ⭐

Story\plot: 3 ⭐

World Building: 2.5⭐

Enjoy!!!

Profile Image for Nicole.
1,597 reviews164 followers
October 18, 2022
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!

I loved this book! Makayla and Reggie’s chemistry light the pages on fire and those smexy scenes?!?! Hot hot hot! (You’re welcome for that epilogue by the way!)

Honestly, this book is fake dating at its finest!

And the family is a hoot! 🤣
Profile Image for Sharonda Isadora.
201 reviews21 followers
October 21, 2022
**First of all, thank you to the author for the opportunity to read/review.

Is it a cute read?... yes sure but at the times that we did have Reggie and Mykala on page during this read, in this reader's opinion: there was no connection nor chemistry between them. Honestly, what else outside of Mykala's "career" did she NOT have to pursue a relationship with Reggie? He was a good guy, no issues on page. So her making it such an "issue" was another thing that made this read quite tedious for me. They just had no chemistry.

The mothers wedding probably would have been a good backdrop for Worth It (espcially with this being a fake dating trope) but even the additional story plots wern't engrossing. The issue with her older sister is a tired plot we see with most romances. Listen, you and your husband got a problem? What that got to do with me and what I'm trying to do? The older jealous sibling trope is a tired back storyline and without much to add to it outside of Kendall just marrying young is dusty and it didn't boost this story. We definitely didn't need a whole chapter with the sisters discusssing Kendall's issue with Mykala. Because Kendall imo had no reason to be upset with Mykala...shoot, she was the "single" one everyone was feeling sorry for. Sorry not sorry.

If I'm being honest and I try to be that as much as possible, this story bored me. I felt there was no spark between Mykala and Reggie. none. And even though we got good enough talk of their backgrounds on page, I still feel like we missed out on a whole lot. Does that make sense?

This could be just first book blues and that's okay. If you like fake dating and somewhat of family drama during a wedding then check this one out.
Profile Image for Weekend Reader_.
1,092 reviews92 followers
October 29, 2022
Before I get into the actual review I want to say that I was a beta reader for this book. So I got to see the evolution of the project.

This book is about a 30 something yo career focused FMC who can't be the single person at her mother's wedding. Her meddling sister's set her up on a date and Makayla's plans to stay single get a bit shaky. Reggie is a tender character who you want in your corner. He communicates, is present, and has a great friend group. Avery stayed on his neck. These two go on a series of dates to keep up appearances of actual dating and of course there's a shift. What I appreciated here is there was low tension but definitely a tug a war of should we keep going or stick to the plan. Makayla is the problem 🤷🏾‍♀️

As a side note Kendall is giving mean older sister vibes. I hoped to like her but the jury is still out.

Back to the low tension the middle of the book slowed down so you got to see what was going on with both characters. We got to learn a bit more about their past and why they are moving the way they are now. The last 10% is where it comes together and everyone gets a swift kick in their butt to act right. Something about how things resolved was satisfying and made up for the sluggish middle. Reggie is a new book boyfriend 🤷🏾‍♀️

Thank you to Lady Marie for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review

CN: dating anxiety, marital separation, mention of unhealthy role modeling of relationships, manipulative ex, unprotected sex
Profile Image for Anjali.
463 reviews25 followers
February 2, 2023
This book is the IndieSpines February 2023 pick, and as always, their picks are written by indie authors, and are available via Kindle Unlimited.

Makayla is a very interesting main protagonist... She's a total career girl, and is practically in denial about wanting to be part of a couple. Her family is constantly trying to change that status.

Enter dream boat Reggie! They hit it off from the word go... And their chemistry is palpable. Makayla still does not want a relationship. What she does want however is a date for all her mother's wedding events... So she asks him to fake date her...

This is a romance novel, so yes, they go on the most adorable dates... fall in love along the way... and how! After a lot of soul searching Makayla decides to give their relationship a shot... And we have our HEA.

I enjoyed the relationships between Makayla and her family... Her mother especially seemed like a badass person in a good way. I also loved Makayla's best friend - Jasmine, and the ask kick she throws Makayla's way when one is needed.

The on the page sex is the only thing that made me uncomfortable, but that's just me. It did feel like it was part of the story's organic flow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Dédé.
304 reviews32 followers
October 18, 2022
Worth It ( Sisters & Serendipity #1) by Lady Marie is about magazine editor Makayla Michaels and travel writer Reggie Johnson. Makayla is at a place in her life where she isn’t looking for a relationship, she’s purely career focused. Unfortunately, that doesn’t work for her sisters and her mother. Makayla is set up on a blind date, but as blind dates go this one is pretty good. Reggie is not only fine but accomplished, they hit it off but Makayla is sticking to guns. This story has the fake dating trope which is fun but I love the twist that Reggie adds to it. Reggie and Makayla have great chemistry, especially sexually. Reggie is such a cinnamon roll hero, he falls hard for Makayla. I wanted him to stand up, Makayla is having her cake and eating it too! Some of her decisions make no sense to me but 🤷🏽‍♀️ Overall cute story, it was a pleasant read. Congratulations on your debut novel Lady Marie.

ARC REVIEW - I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
347 reviews5 followers
November 13, 2023
Definitely Worth It

First time reader for this author. Not anything new but the author dud a great job of character building, pacing and mapping out good complete storytelling...which is not easy. Pretty good balance of real complexities of the single life for black women and dating, hot sexy scenes and character building in the relationship. Loved Reggie, even though he was kind of unbelievable. He was an emotionally mature man able to communicate his real thoughts & feelings while being caring, sexy, thoughtful way and also VERY patient/almost pathetically simp-like. Initially liked Makalaya's up front confidence, boss like energy and witty flirty sarcasm. However, she became super annoying, immature, inflexible and almost rude fast. While I understood the hard exteriorvand walls that we as black women have and the complex reasons why, she just started to get on my nerves. The read was really Worth It!😉
Profile Image for Lex.
69 reviews6 followers
October 18, 2022
First off — this book does not read like a debut — you’d think that Lady Marie was a seasoned author. I loved this book so much! It read so well and is expertly paced. It’s no exaggeration to say that I giggled, squealed, and swooned my way through this book and couldn’t pick up another romance for a day or so to recover.

I related so much to Makayla and I would marry Reggie today (lol). The fake dating trope is one of my favorites but she put a different spin on it where Reggie was intentionally dating Makayla as they fake dated. I won’t give any details so you’ll have to read to see how cute they are!

In addition, the side characters — family and friends — are perfectly hilarious and supportive (and I’m looking forward to seeing them get their books!).

Finally, one of my favorite aspects was that they acted like adults who know how to say what they want and what they need, without unnecessary angst from miscommunication.

Lady Marie is certainly an author to look out for!

I received an arc from the author for my honest review.
Profile Image for martha fountain.
838 reviews18 followers
March 20, 2023
NTMA writing debut

I didn't think that I would be a fan of the fake boyfriend trope but this author's delivery of it made me realize that no matter the trope if there is romance involved I am all in. The coupling of Reggie and Malay was dynamic and breathtaking because baybeeee Reggie is all bae...straight BDE but absolutely adorable. Makayla reminded me of myself...always in my head. Glad she was surrounded by amazing family and best friend. I loved how the obstacle in this story was not toxic ex or baby momma drama...it was themselves. This made for an authentic and genuine love story. Is Kendall's story next? I hope so.
Profile Image for Lisa.
629 reviews184 followers
February 24, 2023
4.5 rounded up to 5!

The signs of a really good book is when it can make you experience a full range of emotions. I promise you Lady Marie had me in her DMs complaining at the beginning. Now I need to go back to her and apologize lol

This fake dating romance during wedding season had me ready to fight Kendall, falling head over heels for Reggie, adoring Delilah and Percy and relating too much to Mikayla.

If you have interest in he falls first, adorable dates and meddling family members choose this. Chapter 14 and 15 alone is worth the read!
Profile Image for Kyara Kay.
17 reviews
November 21, 2023
The Perfect Fake Dating Romance

I read a LOT or romance, and typically my ratings go between 2 & 4 stars. Bur everything about this book was perfect. Reggie & Makayla have chemistry, banter, sex appeal. They spend half the time wrapped up in each other & the other half fighting it. It has the perfect balance of plot & spice & of course the cultural references make you feel like you’re reading about people you actually know. I rarely reread books but this one, I can tell is gonna be a constant reread for me.
Profile Image for DEBRA JOHNSON.
66 reviews2 followers
November 5, 2022
SCARED OF LOVE

I Loved this book. The characters from the moment they met you could see they were meant to be together. My daughter recommended this book and I see why she enjoyed it. The story line flowed and made me want to read more. The story is something most go thru, thinking they're not worthy of love only to find their one true love. Lady Marie, you have a follower looking forward to your next release.
233 reviews7 followers
November 6, 2022
Great 1st book

This was my first book by this author and I hope it isn’t my last. Loved Reggie and Makayla’s story. The supporting characters added to the overall story and makes you want to learn more about them too. Makayla was so dead set against love and it snuck up on her. She tried to fight it. Reggie was such a good guy and patient with her. Clearly he was her one. Once she came to grips with love, she could freely love Reggie. Loved this book!
Profile Image for ColleenIsBooked.
866 reviews18 followers
February 27, 2023
I really loved this one despite it attacking me at every turn as the middle child with two sisters who grew up with a single mom. I loved seeing the growth in Makayla as she started to open up to people while still not compromising her goals or work ethic. Reggie was the biggest sweetie and I loved how much he supported Makayla's career. If you want a sweet but spicy romance with meddling family and friends, try this one out!
Profile Image for Freddie.
252 reviews2 followers
April 8, 2024
It was “Worth It”

Makayla was fighting for her life to NOT find love! What was supposed to be a fake boyfriend to appease her meddling ass family gave my girl more than she was expecting. Reggie?! That’s a good man Savannah!!! He saw what he liked, latched on and wasn’t giving up on what he believed in. I was ready to FIGHT Makayla (and all her family) in a lot of this book, but ultimately they got it together
Profile Image for Ayawna Bennett.
31 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2022
LOVED IT.

Independent fmc with family pushing her to be in a relationship. Blind date to fake dating to real dating.

Loved the development of the relationship and the chemistry was palpable.

The writing was great. I only wished it was written in first person but that doesn’t take away from how good the book is. Still 5 stars. Can’t wait for the other books in the series 🥳
Profile Image for Presh.
68 reviews3 followers
October 28, 2022
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

Debut where?! M&M absolutely should’ve been in therapy lol. However, I am glad that she was able to see the light that she could have a career and a healthy and successful relationship. Reggie…sir. I’m looking forward to reading about Kendall and Greg even though she needed a whole chill pill.
Profile Image for Marcia.
671 reviews4 followers
May 10, 2023
Very good.

This was my first time reading this author work and I enjoyed it. When I tell you I wanted to slap MaKayla if she didn't get herself together. I get she was very upfront with her approach and demands about the arrangement. But the hearts and Reggie showed her love wins in the end. Great story.
Profile Image for Synthia Littleton.
496 reviews16 followers
November 12, 2022
Makayla and Reggie were a slice of heaven for a fake relationship trope. I enjoyed it from start to finish. Chemistry, dialogue, sex!!!!!!! I am a sucker for a man that goes ALL the way in! Everything about this journey was well thought out and fun. This is a really good read.
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,860 reviews52 followers
February 7, 2023
3.5?
This was a very fun spicy rom-com with not a ton of angst. I didn't care for the third act breakup but that seems to be the norm for me with contemporary books. I did laugh out loud several times, but ended up skimming a lot of sex scenes so it came out in about the middle for me.
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