A review by talknerdybookblog
The Fake Out by Stephanie Archer

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

No strong representation of diverse characters or minority identities.

Safety Rating: Safe
• No cheating
• No OW drama
- Hero has been celibate for 1+ year (since he reconnected with the Heroine)
• Does have OM drama
- Heroine's ex-boyfriend, who cheated on her, has been transferred to the hockey team she works for. Instead of apologizing, her ex makes her feel like shit, so she agrees to fake date the Hero to come across as if she's no longer hurt. 
- Her ex attempts to woo her (creepily) throughout the book, which is completely unwelcome but causes the Hero to become jealous
• Does have the Heroine pushing the Hero away
• No separation


Possible Triggers: Yes

• Sexual harassment
• Recounting being cheated on (and being the last to know if her friend group)
• Negative self-talk and fatphobia (challenged) of a side character
• Complicated family relationships

Ending:

HEA with Epilogue. Just married and talking about kids in the distant future.