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Charming Cove #2
How to Fake-Date a Vampire
Faking it with a vampire duke should be simple, right? I've got one chance to prove to my coven that I'm worth my wand. But to do it, I'm going to have to make a deal with a vampire duke. I get to use his gorgeous estate in Cornwall to host the Beltane Ball--and in exchange, I'll pretend to be his girlfriend. But it's all a show for his grandmother. The rules of our fake relationship are No flirting. No emotion. No sex. Simple, right? Except I can't seem to ignore the allure of the infuriating and devastatingly sexy vampire. Falling for a duke isn't an option, though. I would lose the anonymity that protects me and my coven, and that would ruin my life.
342 pages, Paperback
First published August 31, 2023
About the author
Linsey Hall
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Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
For giveaways, contests and book discussion join my Facebook group
here!
Before becoming a writer, Linsey was an archaeologist who studied shipwrecks in all kinds of water, from the tropics to muddy rivers (and she has a distinct preference for one over the other). After a decade of tromping around in search of old bits of stuff, she settled down to start penning her own adventure novels and is freaking delighted that people seem to like them. Since life is better with a little (or a lot of) magic, she writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 901 reviews
September 2, 2023
3.3 Stars
One Liner: Nice but not great
Emma Willowby is an outsider in Charming Cove and has only one chance to prove her worth. She makes a deal with a Vampire Duke, Alaric, to use his estate to host the Beltane Ball. In return, she agrees to be his fake girlfriend for his grandmother.
They have ground rules, of course. However, Emma cannot afford to fall in love with him and lose her anonymity. But what does the future have in store for her?
The story comes from the first-person POV of Emma and Alaric. Emma has a larger share.
My Thoughts:
The book is a standalone and can be read without book one. Though we have Aria in this one, she has only a minor role (with a paragraph of backstory). Oh, little Catrina appears too!
The writing is easy to read, way too easy at times but works well if you want something lighthearted. The pacing is decent, too.
I found the first-person voices hard to distinguish in book one. While that aspect is slightly better here (I still got confused in a couple of chapters), Alaric’s characterization seems to have been a lost opportunity.
Alaric being a vampire is another disappointment. Negating all popular vampire myths is fine as long as we are provided with something else to remember that he and his family are vampires. However, apart from adding a dash of donated blood to their champagne and martini, there’s nothing vampirish about them. It seems like having a human sounded ordinary, so we have a highly humanized version of a vampire. Sorry, but that’s lazy.
Emma is decent and someone I should root for. Yet, she appears judgmental in quite a few instances. Also, the repetition of her opinions (without additional information) makes her sound whiny instead of someone who needs to be loved and cherished. The emotional quotient just isn’t there to feel for her.
The magical elements are well done. I like the concept of revelation sticks and joy batteries. I’d have liked it if the party was a little more elaborate.
Penelope the skunk is Emma’s familiar. She is the highlight of the book. Just like Aria’s Boris, Penelope has a smart mouth and is a treat to read. Yeah, both familiars have almost human-like thoughts and actions, but I don’t mind since they make the book better.
Third-act breakups are not mandatory in romance. But if the book insists on having one, it should not be half-baked and bland. This one feels like a summarized version. And she forgives him so easily! Ugh.
The ending is cute and has HEA, so that’s something. The side characters like Vivian, Madeline, Holly, and Harold are sweet too. However, I liked book one a lot better. The town and the magic in that one were interesting, even if the romance was a bit fast-paced.
To summarize, How to Fake-Date a Vampire is a steady-paced and lighthearted small-town witchy romance. Don’t expect much, though (not even vampires).
Thank you, NetGalley and Bonnie Doon Press, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#HowtoFakeDateaVampire #NetGalley
One Liner: Nice but not great
Emma Willowby is an outsider in Charming Cove and has only one chance to prove her worth. She makes a deal with a Vampire Duke, Alaric, to use his estate to host the Beltane Ball. In return, she agrees to be his fake girlfriend for his grandmother.
They have ground rules, of course. However, Emma cannot afford to fall in love with him and lose her anonymity. But what does the future have in store for her?
The story comes from the first-person POV of Emma and Alaric. Emma has a larger share.
My Thoughts:
The book is a standalone and can be read without book one. Though we have Aria in this one, she has only a minor role (with a paragraph of backstory). Oh, little Catrina appears too!
The writing is easy to read, way too easy at times but works well if you want something lighthearted. The pacing is decent, too.
I found the first-person voices hard to distinguish in book one. While that aspect is slightly better here (I still got confused in a couple of chapters), Alaric’s characterization seems to have been a lost opportunity.
Alaric being a vampire is another disappointment. Negating all popular vampire myths is fine as long as we are provided with something else to remember that he and his family are vampires. However, apart from adding a dash of donated blood to their champagne and martini, there’s nothing vampirish about them. It seems like having a human sounded ordinary, so we have a highly humanized version of a vampire. Sorry, but that’s lazy.
Emma is decent and someone I should root for. Yet, she appears judgmental in quite a few instances. Also, the repetition of her opinions (without additional information) makes her sound whiny instead of someone who needs to be loved and cherished. The emotional quotient just isn’t there to feel for her.
The magical elements are well done. I like the concept of revelation sticks and joy batteries. I’d have liked it if the party was a little more elaborate.
Penelope the skunk is Emma’s familiar. She is the highlight of the book. Just like Aria’s Boris, Penelope has a smart mouth and is a treat to read. Yeah, both familiars have almost human-like thoughts and actions, but I don’t mind since they make the book better.
Third-act breakups are not mandatory in romance. But if the book insists on having one, it should not be half-baked and bland. This one feels like a summarized version. And she forgives him so easily! Ugh.
The ending is cute and has HEA, so that’s something. The side characters like Vivian, Madeline, Holly, and Harold are sweet too. However, I liked book one a lot better. The town and the magic in that one were interesting, even if the romance was a bit fast-paced.
To summarize, How to Fake-Date a Vampire is a steady-paced and lighthearted small-town witchy romance. Don’t expect much, though (not even vampires).
Thank you, NetGalley and Bonnie Doon Press, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#HowtoFakeDateaVampire #NetGalley
September 8, 2023
i liked this, it was enjoyable for the most part.
how to fake-date a vampire follows along emma who is a witch striving to prove herself in the witches' coven. she is currently on the lowest tier in her coven and her position is not promised. in order to prove herself and maintain a secure position, she must plan the most spectacular ball. after a rather strange encounter, she agrees to fake date a duke alaric who needs to keep up a ruse of having a significant other to his grandmother, in exchange for using his large lavish home to host this ball.
although this is a part of a series, i read this as a standalone and although jumping into this world was very confusing at the jump because i was not expecting this to be a modern-day fantasy, with cars and modern-day tv shows, it was relatively easy to piece all the puzzles together.
i would recommend this book to anyone new to the fantasy genre, who loves fake dating, who does not mind a slight third-act/miscommunication (it wasn't that bad), and who is interested in finding out how to fake-date a vampire😋.
as for how i felt about this book, i think i would have enjoyed this more when i was easing myself into the fantasy romance genre, as i tend to enjoy high-stakes fantasies more now. i do not have anything negative to say except that i did not feel any personal connection with this book, but hey at least i did not hate any characters 😌
Thank you to Linsey Hall, Bonnie Doon Press, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
how to fake-date a vampire follows along emma who is a witch striving to prove herself in the witches' coven. she is currently on the lowest tier in her coven and her position is not promised. in order to prove herself and maintain a secure position, she must plan the most spectacular ball. after a rather strange encounter, she agrees to fake date a duke alaric who needs to keep up a ruse of having a significant other to his grandmother, in exchange for using his large lavish home to host this ball.
although this is a part of a series, i read this as a standalone and although jumping into this world was very confusing at the jump because i was not expecting this to be a modern-day fantasy, with cars and modern-day tv shows, it was relatively easy to piece all the puzzles together.
i would recommend this book to anyone new to the fantasy genre, who loves fake dating, who does not mind a slight third-act/miscommunication (it wasn't that bad), and who is interested in finding out how to fake-date a vampire😋.
as for how i felt about this book, i think i would have enjoyed this more when i was easing myself into the fantasy romance genre, as i tend to enjoy high-stakes fantasies more now. i do not have anything negative to say except that i did not feel any personal connection with this book, but hey at least i did not hate any characters 😌
Thank you to Linsey Hall, Bonnie Doon Press, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 4, 2023
going to stop reading fake dating like i don’t know why i even bother it’s serious so overdone omg
September 2, 2023
Emma Willowby wasn't born in Charming Cove, she's trying to find her place into the Aurora Coven, so when the chance to organize the Beltane Ball, the most important event in the witch world, comes she knows she must do it. She has to find the best place where to take the party to beat the competition, she chooses the Duke of Blackthorn's residence, but there is only a minor setback the Duke, Alaric, has never allowed to enter is house. When Emma meets Alaric, they come to a deal, she accepts to fake dating the Duke in exchange for free access to his house for the party. What could go wrong making a deal with a vampire?
I did need something different from my usual read, so I chose How To Fake-Date A Vampire for its paranormal atmosphere, the fake dating trope that I adore, the witches and vampires, and the promise to get a good laugh.
Linsey Hall, new to me author, delivered all of the above mentioned and something more.
The characters were all well depicted.
Emma and Alaric have a lot of nuances that show up chapter after chapter. I really liked them as single character and as a couple even more. They are different from each other and that cause some laugh, Alaric is always so calm and composed, while Emma is a messy troublemaker. They are still sweet together, they pay attention to one another, and they try to help each other.
The interesting and intriguing storyline, and the fast pace didn't allow to put this book down, and the smile that it put on my face was worth even to skip the tea.
Dive into this nice, cosy rom com without hesitation as I did, you'll not regret it.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
November 13, 2024
3.75/5⭐️
2/3🌶
Me gustó.
Es otro romance paranormal tierno y con poco drama.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Al igual que el libro anterior de la serie, se centra en la protagonista y en su lugar dentro del mundo mágico. Hay una tarea a resolver obstáculos y en medio de todo aparece un interés amoroso.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
La protagonista es una bruja que tiene que organizar un evento para que su aquelarre la acepte como miembro permanente. El lugar ideal es un castillo habitado por un duque vampiro.
A partir de aquí vamos a tener idas y vueltas en torno a la organización de la fiesta, fantasmas molestos, secretos familiares y alguna nuestra brujita descubriendo sus dones.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Me faltó un poco más sobre el mundo vampirico, fuera de beber sangre, la autora no le da ninguna característica especial o singular. Son unos aristócratas más. Podían haber sido humanos y no se perdía nada.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Una linda lectura. Fantasía "Cozy".
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Soy la única que piensa que las portadas de ésta saga son preciosas
♥️♥️♥️
2/3🌶
Me gustó.
Es otro romance paranormal tierno y con poco drama.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Al igual que el libro anterior de la serie, se centra en la protagonista y en su lugar dentro del mundo mágico. Hay una tarea a resolver obstáculos y en medio de todo aparece un interés amoroso.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
La protagonista es una bruja que tiene que organizar un evento para que su aquelarre la acepte como miembro permanente. El lugar ideal es un castillo habitado por un duque vampiro.
A partir de aquí vamos a tener idas y vueltas en torno a la organización de la fiesta, fantasmas molestos, secretos familiares y alguna nuestra brujita descubriendo sus dones.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Me faltó un poco más sobre el mundo vampirico, fuera de beber sangre, la autora no le da ninguna característica especial o singular. Son unos aristócratas más. Podían haber sido humanos y no se perdía nada.
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Una linda lectura. Fantasía "Cozy".
🧙🧹👻🪦🧛♂️
Soy la única que piensa que las portadas de ésta saga son preciosas
♥️♥️♥️
September 8, 2023
1.5 ⭐️
This began as a 5⭐️ read. When I was on the first pages I thought there would be no way in hell this ended up being LESS than 4 ⭐️..
But now here I am, giving it 2 ⭐️ ( although it deserves a 1 )
There is one thing I despise in my books, and that is when I'm deceived? Tricked? I think that's the word.
I went into this book because of the premise : fake dating and the male protagonist being a vampire.
For the first 50 -90 pages, the premise hold and the story picked up very quickly.
But then.. WTF???
The fake dating aspect took a VERY secundary role, and the preparations for a ball Emma needed to organize for her coven was the central plot.
I can deal with inta love. I don't have any problems with that, but this was insta love as a SUBPLOT.
I really couldn't care less about the fucking ball preparations and ANOTHER subplot that involved ghosts and mystery..
The story at this point was all over the place, ghosts the ball, the coven, the inexistently fake dating trope ..whatever..
But what I hated the most is how this book tricked me about Alaric being a vampire.😠
I went into this expecting some vampire action..fangs, blood ..ok I get this is a cozy book but you can add vampire foreplay and specially if you are writting a dual pov story
THERE WAS NOTHING. THE GUY WAS A VAMPIRE ONLY BECAUSE HE SAID HE WAS ONE.‼️‼️‼️
The ONLY mention of his vampireness was that he drinks blood with his liquor. NOTHING MORE.❗️
TF ??? The title says " how to fake date A VAMPIRE"
I feel deceived. 😠
Anyway, if you are looking for a cozy story about witches with a very SECUNDARY fake dating romance subplot with a fake vampire ( although pretty good specimen of a man ) this book is for you
This began as a 5⭐️ read. When I was on the first pages I thought there would be no way in hell this ended up being LESS than 4 ⭐️..
But now here I am, giving it 2 ⭐️ ( although it deserves a 1 )
There is one thing I despise in my books, and that is when I'm deceived? Tricked? I think that's the word.
I went into this book because of the premise : fake dating and the male protagonist being a vampire.
For the first 50 -90 pages, the premise hold and the story picked up very quickly.
But then.. WTF???
The fake dating aspect took a VERY secundary role, and the preparations for a ball Emma needed to organize for her coven was the central plot.
I can deal with inta love. I don't have any problems with that, but this was insta love as a SUBPLOT.
I really couldn't care less about the fucking ball preparations and ANOTHER subplot that involved ghosts and mystery..
The story at this point was all over the place, ghosts the ball, the coven, the inexistently fake dating trope ..whatever..
But what I hated the most is how this book tricked me about Alaric being a vampire.😠
I went into this expecting some vampire action..fangs, blood ..ok I get this is a cozy book but you can add vampire foreplay and specially if you are writting a dual pov story
THERE WAS NOTHING. THE GUY WAS A VAMPIRE ONLY BECAUSE HE SAID HE WAS ONE.‼️‼️‼️
The ONLY mention of his vampireness was that he drinks blood with his liquor. NOTHING MORE.❗️
TF ??? The title says " how to fake date A VAMPIRE"
I feel deceived. 😠
Anyway, if you are looking for a cozy story about witches with a very SECUNDARY fake dating romance subplot with a fake vampire ( although pretty good specimen of a man ) this book is for you
March 22, 2024
3.5/5.0
This story is a light easy romp, perfect for those times you don’t want to think too much, but enjoy a bit of fun. The writing is smooth and easy with a touch of humor - not the laugh out loud kind but the sweet and smile kind. No slapstick here, rather the situations, themselves, lend the story a lighter tone.
The plot employs the much overused trope of fake relationships in a fun, if not altogether unique, way. Alaric and Emma are both kind and sympathetic characters that are very easy to like. I did have a real problem with the lightning fast switch in character that came from both near the end of the book, however. First from Emma who, throughout the book was adamant that she didn’t want the life Alaric could give her. Now, we all know that would change, but it happened only pages after her once again repeated insistence - and with absolutely no explanation to why! Then, the same thing happens to Alaric. He makes an assumption and stubbornly sticks to it, then one comment from his Grandmother and he is a completely different person. It gives a reader whiplash, I tell ya! And, unfortunately, leaves the reader baffled and a bit disappointed. I won’t even get into the weird house thing at the end. It is almost like the author wanted to quickly wind things up, create a fairy-tale ending and just be finished.
That being said, that fairy-tale ending was sweet and it did leave a happy smile on my face. It was just a bit of a mystified smile. Overall, I would still recommend the book - especially if one is just looking for an easy and entertaining escape for a few hours.
This story is a light easy romp, perfect for those times you don’t want to think too much, but enjoy a bit of fun. The writing is smooth and easy with a touch of humor - not the laugh out loud kind but the sweet and smile kind. No slapstick here, rather the situations, themselves, lend the story a lighter tone.
The plot employs the much overused trope of fake relationships in a fun, if not altogether unique, way. Alaric and Emma are both kind and sympathetic characters that are very easy to like. I did have a real problem with the lightning fast switch in character that came from both near the end of the book, however. First from Emma who, throughout the book was adamant that she didn’t want the life Alaric could give her. Now, we all know that would change, but it happened only pages after her once again repeated insistence - and with absolutely no explanation to why! Then, the same thing happens to Alaric. He makes an assumption and stubbornly sticks to it, then one comment from his Grandmother and he is a completely different person. It gives a reader whiplash, I tell ya! And, unfortunately, leaves the reader baffled and a bit disappointed. I won’t even get into the weird house thing at the end. It is almost like the author wanted to quickly wind things up, create a fairy-tale ending and just be finished.
That being said, that fairy-tale ending was sweet and it did leave a happy smile on my face. It was just a bit of a mystified smile. Overall, I would still recommend the book - especially if one is just looking for an easy and entertaining escape for a few hours.
August 28, 2023
This was a super cute follow up in the Charming Cove series. I absolutely loved the first book, the Modern Girl's Guide to Magic, and this was a great addition to the magical world of Charming Cove.
This book centers around Emma, a witch trying to secure her place within her local coven. In order to earn her placement, she must successfully plan the important annual ball--an important witchy event where all of the yearly magic is gathered. She enters an agreement to fake date the local vampire duke in exchange for using his estate for the ball and romance ensues. Emma also has an adorable familiar, a skunk named Penelope, who I believe really carries the story.
While this is the second book in the Charming Cove series, it is a stand alone story. If you are looking for a cute, witchy romance with cozy vibes you'll probably really like this one.
This book centers around Emma, a witch trying to secure her place within her local coven. In order to earn her placement, she must successfully plan the important annual ball--an important witchy event where all of the yearly magic is gathered. She enters an agreement to fake date the local vampire duke in exchange for using his estate for the ball and romance ensues. Emma also has an adorable familiar, a skunk named Penelope, who I believe really carries the story.
While this is the second book in the Charming Cove series, it is a stand alone story. If you are looking for a cute, witchy romance with cozy vibes you'll probably really like this one.
September 7, 2023
3.25 ⭐️ A duke vampire and an orphan witch walk into a bar...
...then she spills a beer all over herself and accidentally walks into the wrong bathroom. Boom - meet cute. I know what you're thinking, is it really all that cute that the first time the fmc and mmc see each other is with her wiping her crotch in a dingy bathroom? I don't know. I still haven't made up my mind about it, personally, but that is the beginning of their story.
I was really intrigued with the plot after reading the blurb, but I do have to say I think I like the concept more than the execution. I felt like I couldn't really connect to the characters, even with the Dual POV. The only one I liked was the grandma, but everyone else I could take or leave. The whole time I was waiting for one of them to finally do something that the other could react to. Something that would show their personality in a way that would be meaningful enough it could spark a certain something in the other, and would bring some tension into their relationship. It never came. It's all 'faking' it until it just isn't. Then there's the useless third act breakup because of a misunderstanding -imo, the absolute worst trope - which they fix and end up together. But why? There was no chemistry between Alaric and Emma, or at least not enough to grant this particular kind of ending. Also, the mmc is the one who refuses to just ask for clarification after overhearing a single sentence, but there's zero amount of grovelling or the fmc giving him a slightly hard time for it. He treated her like dirt and she's like, oh well, you like me now, right? And that's it. Ugh, the lack of backbone is astounding, especially because that's not consistent with her character at all. Anyway...
I don't think you can call this a 'clean romance' because there are open door scenes - they literally do it right in the open their first time-, but omg the writing was so boring and tame that it might as well have been. There was no passion there, just two characters going through the motions... and then they were done. I've seen car commercials with more passion that the 'spicy' scenes in this book; this is mild salsa at best, and as a person who could consume a ghost pepper in book form and only crave more, it felt like it felt short in every way. And the worst part is that I love when books don't do spice because it's not a main focus for the characters. If it feels unimportant to the relationship, make it not have any steamy scenes and that's fine. Here, the intimacy felt almost forced.
It's a cute paranormal romrom, but nothing stands out. There are thousand of books that explore this genre, and do it better.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 / 5
🌶 / 5
Also, ps: Why would you have vampires that live just as long as humans? What's the point of a vampire then? Just the blood thing? That's also not explored AT ALL here, so no. The duke was just a duke that added bottled blood to his drinks sometimes... He could've been human and it wouldn't have made a difference.
Thank you so much Net Galley for sending me this eARC!
...then she spills a beer all over herself and accidentally walks into the wrong bathroom. Boom - meet cute. I know what you're thinking, is it really all that cute that the first time the fmc and mmc see each other is with her wiping her crotch in a dingy bathroom? I don't know. I still haven't made up my mind about it, personally, but that is the beginning of their story.
I was really intrigued with the plot after reading the blurb, but I do have to say I think I like the concept more than the execution. I felt like I couldn't really connect to the characters, even with the Dual POV. The only one I liked was the grandma, but everyone else I could take or leave. The whole time I was waiting for one of them to finally do something that the other could react to. Something that would show their personality in a way that would be meaningful enough it could spark a certain something in the other, and would bring some tension into their relationship. It never came. It's all 'faking' it until it just isn't. Then there's the useless third act breakup because of a misunderstanding -imo, the absolute worst trope - which they fix and end up together. But why? There was no chemistry between Alaric and Emma, or at least not enough to grant this particular kind of ending. Also, the mmc is the one who refuses to just ask for clarification after overhearing a single sentence, but there's zero amount of grovelling or the fmc giving him a slightly hard time for it. He treated her like dirt and she's like, oh well, you like me now, right? And that's it. Ugh, the lack of backbone is astounding, especially because that's not consistent with her character at all. Anyway...
I don't think you can call this a 'clean romance' because there are open door scenes - they literally do it right in the open their first time-, but omg the writing was so boring and tame that it might as well have been. There was no passion there, just two characters going through the motions... and then they were done. I've seen car commercials with more passion that the 'spicy' scenes in this book; this is mild salsa at best, and as a person who could consume a ghost pepper in book form and only crave more, it felt like it felt short in every way. And the worst part is that I love when books don't do spice because it's not a main focus for the characters. If it feels unimportant to the relationship, make it not have any steamy scenes and that's fine. Here, the intimacy felt almost forced.
It's a cute paranormal romrom, but nothing stands out. There are thousand of books that explore this genre, and do it better.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 / 5
🌶 / 5
Also, ps: Why would you have vampires that live just as long as humans? What's the point of a vampire then? Just the blood thing? That's also not explored AT ALL here, so no. The duke was just a duke that added bottled blood to his drinks sometimes... He could've been human and it wouldn't have made a difference.
Thank you so much Net Galley for sending me this eARC!
September 9, 2024
3.5 🌟
What a beautiful read to get into the Fall Season Spirit 🧡 this was a cute rom-com romance that is set in Britian, something I loved as the references and speech were so British! Definitely recommend if looking for an easy cute read.
What a beautiful read to get into the Fall Season Spirit 🧡 this was a cute rom-com romance that is set in Britian, something I loved as the references and speech were so British! Definitely recommend if looking for an easy cute read.
October 21, 2023
Sometimes when you’re dealing with difficult situations, it’s nice to take a break and read something outside of your comfort zone.
Apprentice witch Emma Willowby has resided in the supernatural community of Charming Cove for two years and still feels like an outsider. When her coven provides her an opportunity to become an official member by planning their annual Beltane Ball, she jumps at the chance. She even has the perfect venue in mind.
The only problem is that the estate belongs to the notoriously private Duke of Blackthorn, who has recently returned to Charming Cove unexpectedly. Emma and the duke agree to an unusual bargain: he’ll allow her to use his estate for her ball, if she’ll agree to pretend to be his girlfriend to keep up appearances for his beloved grandmother.
All for show, of course.
No genuine feelings involved.
When I downloaded How To Fake Date A Vampire by Linsey Hall, I had no idea when that the book was the second in a series. However the author did a great job of providing necessary background workout it coming off as excessively expository.
The book is divided into dual povs, those of Emma and Alaric. I personally feel that Emma’s point-of-view flows more naturally, but that is possibly a matter of personal opinion. Emma is a delightful main character and Alaric is an engaging romantic lead.
Both of them have their own insecurities-about themselves and their “fake relationship,” but they do try to deal with them and thankfully avoid the super-dominant/angry male character/submissive female character stereotypes that are very common in romance-themed stories.
The secondary characters, mostly Emma’s best friend Holly and Alaric’s grandmother Vivian were wonderful and I found it very refreshing that Emma had so many people who cared about and supported her.
So many novels with female main characters have them alone and disliked by most people-often other women-and it was a pleasant change.
This is a story for those fond of fake dating-with both parties slowly falling despite themselves-found families that can be our friends, coworkers and fake boyfriend’s relatives and much-deserved happy endings.
Thank you very much to NetGalley, Bonnie Doon Press and Linsey Hall, for providing this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Apprentice witch Emma Willowby has resided in the supernatural community of Charming Cove for two years and still feels like an outsider. When her coven provides her an opportunity to become an official member by planning their annual Beltane Ball, she jumps at the chance. She even has the perfect venue in mind.
The only problem is that the estate belongs to the notoriously private Duke of Blackthorn, who has recently returned to Charming Cove unexpectedly. Emma and the duke agree to an unusual bargain: he’ll allow her to use his estate for her ball, if she’ll agree to pretend to be his girlfriend to keep up appearances for his beloved grandmother.
All for show, of course.
No genuine feelings involved.
When I downloaded How To Fake Date A Vampire by Linsey Hall, I had no idea when that the book was the second in a series. However the author did a great job of providing necessary background workout it coming off as excessively expository.
The book is divided into dual povs, those of Emma and Alaric. I personally feel that Emma’s point-of-view flows more naturally, but that is possibly a matter of personal opinion. Emma is a delightful main character and Alaric is an engaging romantic lead.
Both of them have their own insecurities-about themselves and their “fake relationship,” but they do try to deal with them and thankfully avoid the super-dominant/angry male character/submissive female character stereotypes that are very common in romance-themed stories.
The secondary characters, mostly Emma’s best friend Holly and Alaric’s grandmother Vivian were wonderful and I found it very refreshing that Emma had so many people who cared about and supported her.
So many novels with female main characters have them alone and disliked by most people-often other women-and it was a pleasant change.
This is a story for those fond of fake dating-with both parties slowly falling despite themselves-found families that can be our friends, coworkers and fake boyfriend’s relatives and much-deserved happy endings.
Thank you very much to NetGalley, Bonnie Doon Press and Linsey Hall, for providing this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 16, 2023
I want to live in Charming Cove! Emma & Alaric were just too adorable. I got a little teary eyed, tbh. These are wonderfully witchy cozy mystery books and probably one of my faves! One question that wasn’t answered though- who tipped off the paparazzi guy?!? Penelope is adorable in her big floppy pink bow 💖
Just an all around feel good, warm snuggles book.
Just an all around feel good, warm snuggles book.
September 3, 2023
A fake dating, vampire/witch, small town romance with surprisingly impressive emotional depth and a relationship you won't be able to help rooting for!! I loved both the MCs, especially his grandma, and the way that each of them has emotional baggage relating to their family. Also, her skunk familiar, Penelope was the absolute BEST. Good on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Anne Aguirre or Jessica Clare. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. This is book two in the Charming Cove series but definitely can be read as a standalone!
September 5, 2023
How to Fake Date a Vampire was a quick and fun fake dating paranormal romcom. This is the first book I've read by Linsey Hall and I can't wait to read more. The author's writing is perfect for when you want something light hearted and easy to read. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked and rooted for this fake dating couple from the beginning. They had amazing chemistry from their first encounter onward and I loved their cute banter. This is a slight spoiler but this book sadly had my last favorite romance tropes, the miscommunication trope leading into the third act breakup. It usually messes up a good romcom for me but I still really enjoyed this overall. I'd highly recommend even if you're like me and don't normally enjoy those tropes.
Thank you to the author, the publishers, and netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author, the publishers, and netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2024
2.5/5
it was a cute quick story about a vampire duke and an orphan witch 🙂💜
it was a cute quick story about a vampire duke and an orphan witch 🙂💜
August 29, 2023
How to fake-date a vampire by Linsey Hall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️
A witch (sunshine) x vampire (grumpy) fake dating relationship! Turn to lovers!! I’m here SO for it!
This book was really surprising, it’s definitely different to your normal vampire stuff which I loved!!!
All the characters were sweet, especially Lilly in the end! I got all the warm & fuzzies with this book & the ending was so sweet 🥹
I recommend giving it a read, it’s a nice & quick book with 228 pages!! I am gonna to be adding Linsey Halls first book in this series (Modern girls guide to magic) to my tbr.
Thank you Linsey hall & Netgalley for the arc
Happy reading 📖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️
A witch (sunshine) x vampire (grumpy) fake dating relationship! Turn to lovers!! I’m here SO for it!
This book was really surprising, it’s definitely different to your normal vampire stuff which I loved!!!
All the characters were sweet, especially Lilly in the end! I got all the warm & fuzzies with this book & the ending was so sweet 🥹
I recommend giving it a read, it’s a nice & quick book with 228 pages!! I am gonna to be adding Linsey Halls first book in this series (Modern girls guide to magic) to my tbr.
Thank you Linsey hall & Netgalley for the arc
Happy reading 📖
September 16, 2023
Stick with Twilight if you are looking for your vampire fix
November 6, 2023
This was a very very loose interpretation of vampires.
November 5, 2023
why make the love interest a vampire if there’s not one vampiric think about him
October 5, 2023
I really did enjoy this!
As someone who’s not so clued up on witchcraft, this being my first witchcraft book, it was so lovely to not feel confused while reading this book. Everything about witchcraft was so well described and had actually got me excited to read more books like this!
I loved the characters - Penelope the skunk being a true highlight!
Alaric and Emma were well written and I loved their love story so much.
Big downfall was the ending, the fall of their relationship felt extremely rushed. As well as this, the ‘fall’ only lasted for a short amount of time and they seemed to make up extremely fast given the circumstances. The ending of a book is a real make or break for me and in this case it was just lacking and not very descriptive - I WANT ALL THE DETAILS!
Furthermore, I was drawn to this book originally because of it’s setting in Cornwall - where I live myself! At first I was little disappointed that the author used a fictional town instead of using a real place. Throughout the book there wasn’t really any reference to a specific place, which is fine - I’m just being picky as it’s the county that I live in haha. BUT BUT BUT, I was extremely overjoyed when the only (I think?) real name dropped place in Cornwall was St Ives, the village I actually live in. Granted, it was mentioned very briefly but extra points to the author for mentioning St Ives!
All in all, I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to read more from this genre and author!
As someone who’s not so clued up on witchcraft, this being my first witchcraft book, it was so lovely to not feel confused while reading this book. Everything about witchcraft was so well described and had actually got me excited to read more books like this!
I loved the characters - Penelope the skunk being a true highlight!
Alaric and Emma were well written and I loved their love story so much.
Big downfall was the ending, the fall of their relationship felt extremely rushed. As well as this, the ‘fall’ only lasted for a short amount of time and they seemed to make up extremely fast given the circumstances. The ending of a book is a real make or break for me and in this case it was just lacking and not very descriptive - I WANT ALL THE DETAILS!
Furthermore, I was drawn to this book originally because of it’s setting in Cornwall - where I live myself! At first I was little disappointed that the author used a fictional town instead of using a real place. Throughout the book there wasn’t really any reference to a specific place, which is fine - I’m just being picky as it’s the county that I live in haha. BUT BUT BUT, I was extremely overjoyed when the only (I think?) real name dropped place in Cornwall was St Ives, the village I actually live in. Granted, it was mentioned very briefly but extra points to the author for mentioning St Ives!
All in all, I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to read more from this genre and author!
September 1, 2023
Quick Summary: A charming, forever found, supernatural rom-com
My Review: How to Fake-date a Vampire by Linsey Hall is installment two in the Charming Cove series.
About the Book: When a seemingly clueless witch in search of a coven to call her own has an accidental encounter with a vampire duke with an attitude, strange things begin to happen.
What Makes This Book So Appealing: From humorously meeting her familiar to faking a partnership to experiencing a dreamy HEA, Emma was a delight. Alaric was nothing to sneeze at either. He was dark sexy with an air of mystery that made him that much more appealing. And let's not forget Penelope. She stole the show. This special, little community is tops.
My Final Say: I absolutely loved, loved, loved this brand of magical goodness. The story was everything I needed it to be. I am completely enamored with Charming Cove. Keep the books coming, please!
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Status/Level: 💎
Series: Yes
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Bonnie Doon Press), and to NetGalley, who provided access to this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have voluntarily shared are my own and have not been influenced by the aforementioned in any way.
My Review: How to Fake-date a Vampire by Linsey Hall is installment two in the Charming Cove series.
About the Book: When a seemingly clueless witch in search of a coven to call her own has an accidental encounter with a vampire duke with an attitude, strange things begin to happen.
What Makes This Book So Appealing: From humorously meeting her familiar to faking a partnership to experiencing a dreamy HEA, Emma was a delight. Alaric was nothing to sneeze at either. He was dark sexy with an air of mystery that made him that much more appealing. And let's not forget Penelope. She stole the show. This special, little community is tops.
My Final Say: I absolutely loved, loved, loved this brand of magical goodness. The story was everything I needed it to be. I am completely enamored with Charming Cove. Keep the books coming, please!
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Re-read: Yes
Keeper: Yes
Favorites Shelf: Yes
Status/Level: 💎
Series: Yes
Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Bonnie Doon Press), and to NetGalley, who provided access to this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have voluntarily shared are my own and have not been influenced by the aforementioned in any way.
September 4, 2023
Emma is a struggling witch trying to land a permanent position in her coven. Alaric is a duke and the most eligible bachelor in their county. Their paths collide when Emma enters the men's loo by mistake. Alaric finds her odd but somewhat endearing. Emma has an opportunity to secure her position in the coven by organizing a ball that is very important to the coven. Now, she needs to come up with the best venue to win against her nemesis who is competing for the same position. The duke's mansion has always piqued everyone's curiosity. It's known to be breathtaking but has been left unexplored. Due to a misunderstanding, the duke's grandmother mistakes Emma for his girlfriend. The duke offers Emma to fake date him in exchange for hosting the ball on his property. Oh, and he's a vampire. And she can talk to ghosts.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was really cute and had some amazing laugh out loud moments. I really loved the cozy, fall and pumpkin spice everything vibes it gave. The characters were very enjoyable as well. I, however, felt the absence of proper world building. There was very little to nothing known about Vampirism.. which made the duke's personality seem very dull. The miscommunication annoyed me.
Overall, it was very well written and would be best enjoyed reading in October, for obvious reasons. This paranormal romance is a must read!!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was really cute and had some amazing laugh out loud moments. I really loved the cozy, fall and pumpkin spice everything vibes it gave. The characters were very enjoyable as well. I, however, felt the absence of proper world building. There was very little to nothing known about Vampirism.. which made the duke's personality seem very dull. The miscommunication annoyed me.
Overall, it was very well written and would be best enjoyed reading in October, for obvious reasons. This paranormal romance is a must read!!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2023
This is the second in the Charming Cove series, but it can be read as a standalone. Again, we are back in the sweet, small, witchy, costal town and we meet one of the newest residents, Emma, with her friends. Even though she is still known as the "new girl," she has lived there for two years. She is focused on finding her place within the community when she has a run in with the town's celebrity, you guessed it! The Vampire. This fake-dating romance was so fun, and I was definitely in the mood for the dynamic. Along with the Found Family Emma keeps acquiring it really is one of those books that puts you in a better mood. Of course, there are a few challenges to overcome in the relationship and their lives. We watch our characters grow and open their hearts in the delightful anticipation of a Happily Ever After.
The Charming Cove series is absolutely adorable. I have my eye on the third in the Series, "Romance Rules for Werewolves." I am going to try to save it for when I need a strong dose of dopamine. It comes out Dec 7th.
Thank you to Linsey Hall, Quill and Bonnie Doon Press, and NetGalley for a digital copy of How to Fake-Date a Vampire.
The Charming Cove series is absolutely adorable. I have my eye on the third in the Series, "Romance Rules for Werewolves." I am going to try to save it for when I need a strong dose of dopamine. It comes out Dec 7th.
Thank you to Linsey Hall, Quill and Bonnie Doon Press, and NetGalley for a digital copy of How to Fake-Date a Vampire.
August 20, 2023
4 ⭐️ / .5 🌶️
Just like the last book in this series, How To Fake Date A Vampire was SUCH a cute and COZZZYYY read. Very, very low stakes for anyone who is looking for an easy read without having heart palpitations. My favorite part of this series might honestly be the familiars. I’m also happy to have seen characters from the last book make brief appearances. This story came together for a very heart warming HEA ending which is exactly what my soul needed going into this.
Pros:
- Fake dating
- Found family
- Magic
- Quiet coastal English town
- Funny banter
Cons:
- Miscommunication 🥲
I think this book was just what I needed to get me geared up for fall around the corner.
EDIT 8/18 After sitting with this book for a little longer, another thing I would have loved reading is a tiny bit more descriptive with places and clothes to help me visualize better.
Just like the last book in this series, How To Fake Date A Vampire was SUCH a cute and COZZZYYY read. Very, very low stakes for anyone who is looking for an easy read without having heart palpitations. My favorite part of this series might honestly be the familiars. I’m also happy to have seen characters from the last book make brief appearances. This story came together for a very heart warming HEA ending which is exactly what my soul needed going into this.
Pros:
- Fake dating
- Found family
- Magic
- Quiet coastal English town
- Funny banter
Cons:
- Miscommunication 🥲
I think this book was just what I needed to get me geared up for fall around the corner.
EDIT 8/18 After sitting with this book for a little longer, another thing I would have loved reading is a tiny bit more descriptive with places and clothes to help me visualize better.
November 11, 2023
When I saw this book involved fake dating and vampires, I was immediately sold. This romance was cozy and cute and very easy to digest. I thought Emma’s feelings around wanting to belong and find people that would accept her were very relatable. I enjoyed the charming details such as Emma’s skunk familiar, Penelope, and the small town vibes of Charming Cove. This novel also has a chic grandmother character, a grumpy ghost, and magic galore. If you’re looking for a sweet and cozy spooky season read, then this might be the book for you.
November 8, 2023
Tropes -
. Witchy Romance
. Witch who can see and talks to ghost
. A handsome Vampire
. Animal companion
. Fake dating ( of course )
. A ball to prepare
. A meddling grandmother
. An angry ghost
This is a cool, cozy, witchy romance book. It's quite good, but at the same time, I know I will probably forget it tomorrow. Cause with all those fantastic tropes the intensity there should be, is missing. I understand that it's a cozy book, but still I would love it if there is that intensity there.
As for the characters, both Emma and Alaric are good, fun, adorable, but again felt just average. I mean we have a Vampire, who's a Duke, and he's been just there, like where and when he will be in action.
Anyway, still it was fun to read. And I love the portrayal of family, not by blood but by connection. Also just like the first book of the series, I also like the animal companion here.
. Witchy Romance
. Witch who can see and talks to ghost
. A handsome Vampire
. Animal companion
. Fake dating ( of course )
. A ball to prepare
. A meddling grandmother
. An angry ghost
This is a cool, cozy, witchy romance book. It's quite good, but at the same time, I know I will probably forget it tomorrow. Cause with all those fantastic tropes the intensity there should be, is missing. I understand that it's a cozy book, but still I would love it if there is that intensity there.
As for the characters, both Emma and Alaric are good, fun, adorable, but again felt just average. I mean we have a Vampire, who's a Duke, and he's been just there, like where and when he will be in action.
Anyway, still it was fun to read. And I love the portrayal of family, not by blood but by connection. Also just like the first book of the series, I also like the animal companion here.
October 1, 2024
Taken me a while to read as I've just been so tired! The amazing thing is I've been able to drop in and out of the story, each time being easily pulled back into the story!
Onto the 3rd one for a classic Belvoir book week! Can't wait 📚📚
Onto the 3rd one for a classic Belvoir book week! Can't wait 📚📚
August 29, 2023
This cozy low stakes romance with enchantingly witchy vibes is a perfect read for the start of the fall season.
Emma, a witch living in Charming Cove has several embarrassing run-ins with the handsome Duke of Blackthorn who has just returned to his family estate in the coastal town. When her coven holds a competition to see who can choose the best place to hold a very important event that would set the pace for the rest of the year, Emma asks the Duke a favor.. But he needs a favor in return. Though neither savoy is as easy as it seems. Emma faces scheming rivals, unruly ghosts, and even paparazzi. At least she has the of her sassy and adorable familiar.
The story is full of cozy romantic scenes, sexual tension with a beautiful backdrop.
I totally recommend for your next cozy romance read!!
Emma, a witch living in Charming Cove has several embarrassing run-ins with the handsome Duke of Blackthorn who has just returned to his family estate in the coastal town. When her coven holds a competition to see who can choose the best place to hold a very important event that would set the pace for the rest of the year, Emma asks the Duke a favor.. But he needs a favor in return. Though neither savoy is as easy as it seems. Emma faces scheming rivals, unruly ghosts, and even paparazzi. At least she has the of her sassy and adorable familiar.
The story is full of cozy romantic scenes, sexual tension with a beautiful backdrop.
I totally recommend for your next cozy romance read!!
November 14, 2023
I'm a huge fan of fake dating and was excited to see this play out between Emma, our witch FMC and Alaric, our vampire MMC! thank you to Author Linsey Hall and Netgalley for providing this second book in the Charming Cove series.
Alaric was unlike any other vampire I've read about. He was essentially a human who drank blood spiked with alcohol at formal meal times, but I appreciated this softer aspect of him. The author didn't create him as a vampire for any blood lust reasonings, he was simply another of many magical beings who inhabit their community.
One of my favourite aspects of the story was following the coven and witnessing the competitive streak between the witches in a new way. It's been fun in both books to have a magical competition parallel to the romantic storyline and I'll definitely be reading any future books in the series!
Alaric was unlike any other vampire I've read about. He was essentially a human who drank blood spiked with alcohol at formal meal times, but I appreciated this softer aspect of him. The author didn't create him as a vampire for any blood lust reasonings, he was simply another of many magical beings who inhabit their community.
One of my favourite aspects of the story was following the coven and witnessing the competitive streak between the witches in a new way. It's been fun in both books to have a magical competition parallel to the romantic storyline and I'll definitely be reading any future books in the series!
September 6, 2023
No I'm really upset about this one! There was basically mention of Alaric's vampirism aside from the title of vampire... we needed some world building to establish the rules. The whole thing felt haphazard and rushed to me?
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