A review by admya
The Fake Out by Jenni Bara

4.5

💖He Falls Hard First 
💖 Curvy Heroine 
💖 Sports Romance 
💖 Best Friend’s sister 
💖 Baseball Romance 
💖 Fake Dating 
 
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 
Spice: 🌶️ 

"The Fake Out" by Jenna Bara is a delightful addition to the Boston Revs Three Outs Series, delivering a charming and humorous romance that is sure to captivate fans of the genre. This stand-alone novel combines the best elements of a baseball romcom with a roommates-to-lovers and teammate's sister trope, creating a story that is as heartwarming as it is entertaining. 

Emerson Knight, our protagonist, is a goofy yet endearing baseball star who finds himself in a predicament that only an "idiot" could land in: developing feelings for his best friend’s sister, Gianna Damiano. Emerson's internal struggle is both relatable and humorous, and Bara does an excellent job of portraying his conflicting emotions and growing obsession with Gianna. 

Gianna Damiano is a fiery and independent heroine who brings a perfect balance to Emerson's golden retriever-like charm. Her strength and determination shine through, making her a character readers will root for. The chemistry between Emerson and Gianna is electric, with their interactions filled with witty banter and undeniable tension. Bara captures their dynamic beautifully, making their transition from friends to lovers feel natural and engaging. 

The plot thickens as Emerson agrees to let Gianna be his new roommate, leading to a series of events that complicate their relationship further. The fake date that changes everything is a classic romcom setup, and Bara executes it flawlessly, adding depth to their evolving relationship. The stakes are raised as Emerson finds himself lying to his best friend, a situation that adds a layer of tension and suspense to the story. 

Bara's writing style is engaging and filled with humor, making "The Fake Out" a joy to read. The supporting cast, particularly the members of the Boston Revs team, adds a rich layer of camaraderie and fun to the narrative. The inclusion of an adorable pet puffin is a quirky touch that adds to the charm of the story. 

"The Fake Out" is not just about romance; it's also about personal growth and the complexities of navigating relationships. Emerson's journey of realizing that his feelings for Gianna are more than just a fleeting obsession is touching and relatable. Gianna's struggle to reconcile her feelings for Emerson while maintaining her independence adds depth to her character. 

In conclusion, "The Fake Out" by Jenna Bara is a heartwarming and hilarious romcom that will leave readers smiling. With its well-crafted characters, engaging plot, and perfect blend of humor and romance, this book is a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. Emerson and Gianna's story is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most unexpected relationships can turn out to be the most rewarding. Jenna Bara has delivered a hit with this novel, making it a standout in the Boston Revs Three Outs Series.