FAKER

𝗙𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿
𝗕𝘆 𝗦𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗵 𝗦𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗵
𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿: 𝗕𝗲𝗿𝗸𝗹𝗲𝘆
𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸: 𝟑𝟑𝟔
𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱: 𝟏𝘀𝐭 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟗
𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗲: 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿: 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓







Emmie Echavarre exemplifies resilience and adaptability in a challenging workplace. She is one of the few women at Nuts & Bolts, a power tool company dominated by rough-edged, no-nonsense men who have mastered the art of professional fakery. She dons a tough-as-nails persona from nine to five, Monday through Friday, skillfully navigating a setting that often demands strength over sincerity. Yet beneath the sharp wit and confident exterior lies a woman far more laid-back and lighthearted than her colleagues could ever guess. One person tested her ability to maintain composure the most: Tate Rasmussen. From the moment they crossed paths, Tate met Emmie’s warmth with a cold front. Despite her repeated efforts—friendly hellos, small talk, and genuine attempts at connection—he remained distant, offering little more than curt replies and a perpetual scowl.

This tension-filled dynamic adds a compelling edge to the narrative. Emmie’s interactions with Tate illustrate her emotional resilience and the challenges women often face in male-dominated industries. She also proves their capabilities and breaks through emotional barriers to be seen and understood as individuals. It is relatable and moving to see the contrast between Emmie's carefully constructed professional façade and her authentic self. We often have to armour up to be taken seriously, and the most unexpected relationships can challenge that armour in all the right ways.
The writing style is good, with clear and straightforward language for a comfortable reading experience. While the story does lend itself to a quicker reading pace, the actual progression of the plot felt somewhat slow, which occasionally dulled the momentum. Both protagonists are well-crafted, each fitting seamlessly into their respective roles. The dynamic between them is rooted in the beloved enemies-to-lovers trope, set against the backdrop of a workplace romance—an appealing combination for fans of contemporary romantic fiction.

The female lead has Filipino heritage; once again, there is little exploration or elaboration on her family background—only a passing mention of her cultural roots. I shared a similar observation in my " Simmer Down " review of the same author. A more thoughtful and detailed portrayal of her family and cultural ties could have added greater depth to the character and enriched the reading experience. Though the enemies-to-lovers trope is central, the transition from animosity to affection feels rushed. One moment, they’re sparring with words, and the next, their relationship takes a romantic turn that feels somewhat abrupt and lacks gradual buildup.

The book is still a good read, especially for those who enjoy light-hearted romances, particularly those based on workplace dynamics and the tension-filled enemies-to-lovers trope. It’s a pleasant addition to the genre and worth picking up for a cosy afternoon escape.

My Rating:

3.5/5

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