A review by lezreadalot
Love Charade by Allie McDermid

3.0

The fire hadn’t quite started, but there was something hanging between them, like they were both fighting to keep it under wraps. Jen certainly was. If she let go, there would be no stopping the blaze.

This was pretty okay. It started out with a lot of potential, and I was really enjoying the flow, the banter, the really closed off small town vibes and the low stakes, but in the end it didn't really wow me as much as I was hoping it to. The plot revolves around Holly, who's just come home to Scotland after having her heart broken in London, and Jen, who is still getting over a bad breakup that happened three years ago. They get teamed up for a dating competition happening in their town, and of course, the fake dating turns into real dating. The beginning was really cute. I loved their banter (especially the quack thing) and how their animosity and awkwardness really felt organic when it turned to attraction and chemistry. The mutual pining was delicious. That's the kind of misunderstanding that I actually really enjoy; it creates great tension and light angst.

The last third of this, unfortunately, I didn't enjoy as much. Not to spoil anything, but the third act conflict revolves largely around ex-girlfriend drama, which is my absolute least favourite type of conflict. It was kinda overwrought and dramatic, coupled with the kind of boring, annoying misunderstandings that I really don't like. The jealous ex storyline never appeals to me, and while I understood the reasons for one of the character's reluctance, it was drawn out way too long. The writing all in all was fine, but there were some issues with pacing and flow, in my opinion.

I might try this author again, because I do like the premise for this series. But this just wasn't my favourite thing.