Molly left her hometown and fiance in the dust and hasn't looked back. Its been nine years and shes back for a career opportunity shes been wanting and unfortunately needs to be back to her hometown to her dismay hoping that the year she'll be here she won't run into any one familiar. Figures she would run into her ex and his mother she that adores comes up with a plan while she is healing under the guise that they are together again. It works doubly for her Ex Ben who in order to get the job he wants need to seem like a family man and his mother seems in greater spirits since this fake announcement came up. Thing is they next expected for secrets to be told and hearts to start revving up once again.

Overall this was a pretty great standard contemporary romance. I really like the characters and getting to know them and how they interact with their family. For obvious reasons I wasn't a fan of Molly's mother and if you read this book why. I love how playful Ben's brother was. I loved seeing the family dynamics. I loved seeing that romance between Ben and Molly and seeing how things works when secrets were spilled. Overall a pretty great book I really enjoyed it.

I really enjoyed this book. I'm a big fan of this series. I will say this book brings the emotion. I found tears in my eyes a few times while reading this book. What Molly had gone through broke my heart and made me cheer for her to get her second chance with Ben. These two deserve a HEA. Ben and his brother Finn are hilarious when together. I love their brotherly banter. I am not a fan of Molly's mom. She goes on my list of top most disliked characters. I love the epilogue because it's beautiful to see where Ben and Molly are, but makes me really anticipate the next book in the series. Over all a great book that you shouldn't pass on.

The Firefighter's Pretend Fiancée (Shadow Creek) by Victoria James is one heart string tugging story. My heart broke as Molly revealed her past to Ben but sang when these two found their way back together. While I had an idea what had happen earlier in her life, reading about the events of made it seem so terribly real. Still she survived if she was frozen in the past but in many ways Ben had been too. I can say I have never enjoyed an ending as much as this one.

The story-line is well-developed with me waiting just as anxiously as Ben did to find out why Molly had left so many years ago. The characters are just as well developed with secondary characters like Finn stealing my heart. Yes, there is a cliffhanger concerning him, so now I can hardly wait to read what happens next!

I must say, there is one character who does not deserve forgiveness. I am hoping that her family completely ostracizes her in future books. Unchristian I know, but Molly’s story gave me some strong feelings both positive and negative about the people in this book.

Rating: 4.5/5

I really enjoy books by this talented author and this is a great addition to her Shadow Creek series. Although this is the fifth book in this series, each story is written to be a standalone read, so don’t let that put you off reading this fantastic small town romance! Growing up Molly Mayberry and Ben Matthews loved each other and planned on having their HEA together. However, Molly unexpectedly broke off their relationship, leaving him heartbroken, before she went back to study to become a doctor. That was nine years ago. Now she’s reluctantly returned to Shadow Creek for the first time to work for a year in the local hospital but she’s dreading reconnecting with family and friends from her past.

Ben never left Shadow Creek and is a firefighter with a chance at becoming the fire chief but first he has to show his boss that he really is in a relationship with someone and ready to settle down. When he tells his brother, Finn, he didn’t expect Finn to tell their ill mother that Ben is engaged to Molly again! This is the start of a fake relationship that both struggle to keep fake. However, Molly’s real reason for breaking off their original relationship, her manipulative mother and fate may still thwart their chances of achieving their happy ever after once more…

I love small town romances where the reader can get to know the members of the community and relate to them through the stories and this is an excellent example of just such a series. The angst and turmoil in this story was horrendous! You really get to feel for Molly and everything she went through and as for her mother, well, words fail me – you’ll have to read it yourself to discover why. Ben is such a brilliant character, a real hero in every sense of the term. It is a story of coming to terms with events, accepting the past, forgiving yourself and moving on to the future. I really enjoyed it and hope that the next story in the series will star Finn – I need to know how he gets on. I’d also like to know what Molly’s mother does after Ben spoke to him!

I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.

Such an emotional read.

Here we meet Ben and Molly, they were together many years ago just before Molly left him and her life behind. Now nine years later, she’s back for a year to lead the Pediatrics department at the hospital and she just hopes she doesn’t run into Ben.

I gotta say, there’s not much I can say about Molly situation without giving away the goods, but I gotta say I didn’t see it happening, at least not just quite like this. It was super emotional and I wanted to hug her so much! It really changed her life and, in turn, Ben’s life and even her sisters (since she pulled away from them).

I was so happy that with Ben’s help and now her sisters, she was well underway to get much better. And I loved how she rekindled her relationship with Ben, and he was so respectful of her pace. These two deserved to be together!

And OMG, I hated her mother, lol. But loved her sisters so much and if we added Ben’s brother, I SO want to read more in this series.

*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing a copy for which I’m giving my honest opinion*

3.5 stars

This book has no cussing and no on page sex. If those things bother you, there's nothing to worry about here. While this book is set in Shadow Creek, you do not have to read the others to enjoy this – it totally stands alone.

This book had a really wonderful story line, and I thought that both Molly and Ben were incredibly likable characters, and they were the kind of characters that I couldn't help but root for from the start. Their backstory was traumatic and sad, but their reunion and the way that they built up their new relationship was really great. Ben's relationship with his brother Finn was also ridiculously adorable. I would have happily read a 'buddy cop' type book with just those two in it, it was that great. I also loved the looks-in on the other characters in Shadow Creek – seeing the changes in their lives and how things had changed for the better for them was fabulous. I very much hope that Finn will get a happily ever after soon. Especially after that epilogue.

Sadly, the ending felt really rushed, and there were way too many unanswered questions to make this one a five star read for me. ***SPOILERS to end of paragraph*** What happened with the baby? Did Molly and Ben ever try to find her just to make sure she was okay? Did they ever make peace with not knowing? And why does Marlene keep skating by despite being an utter demon? I really expected a huge Molly/Marlene moment after the way her mother treated her, I wanted Molly to take her power back from her mother, but instead that story line just kind of petered out without a strong conclusion. If even just the Molly/Marlene thing been resolved rather then left to flap, this would have been a five star read.

'He kissed her, remembering the girl she was, the girl he’d lost. He kissed her, the woman she had become, the one he knew he still loved, the one he wanted to have another chance at forever with.'

It always seems to go the same way for me when I read a book by Victoria James—I start, I get sucked in, I fall in love. Her Shadow Creek, Montana series has taken its toll on my emotions over the course of four books—in good ways, I promise—and The Firefighter’s Pretend Fiancée is no exception.

Ben and Molly’s second chance is fraught with history and heartache, yet still incredibly swoony. Before I realized it, I was knee-deep in feels and holding out hope for a HEA, even as I was trying to work through my frustrations with events past. Which is to say, I was more than a little invested in their story.

This is another ultimately feel good romance, one which takes you on a bumpy ride first, making the payoff all the more rewarding. Some times, I found myself wishing to be able to connect with Molly more. Other times, I just wanted to make heart eyes at Ben, laugh with Finn, and shop at Addie’s bookstore.

For the most part, though, I simply, but greatly, enjoyed this story, my return to this lovable small town and its host of quirky characters, and closed the book hopeful of more to come. Because I’m definitely ready to get sucked into another romance by Ms. James.

“I don’t think a day has gone by where I haven’t thought of kissing you or missed kissing you. And that’s why I’ve been so angry with you, because I could never forget you.”

~ 4.5 STARS ~

Thank you to NetGallye, Victoria James and Entangled Publishing for an ebook copy for review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. As alway, an honest review from me.

At first I was a little skeptical based on the title. I assumed the pretend fiancee would be someone he barely knew, so it seemed a bit unrealistic that the couple would fall involve. Because it's a romance novel after all. Once I learned that the fake couple had actually been a real couple years ago, and they still cared for each other, everything made a lot more sense.

This is a sweet romance. There's love, romance, and passion, but the physical aspects described stop at kissing. The story is the perfect mix of sweet romance, heartbreak and personal growth. The more is revealed, the more I like the story. I really liked that the story shows the importance of communication and taking care of yourself. I think it will be relatable for a lot of women.

Other than my initial skepticism and a few of the commonly used romance novel tropes, I really enjoyed most of the book.

I'm really glad I read this book that gives me hope for the future.

Victoria James' The Firefighter's Pretend Fiancee pretty much punches all of the buttons. Sweet? Check. Funny? Check. Sad? Check. Drama? Check.  And, the novel also succeeds in being very readable and frequently charming.

If you've read enough novels, you probably will guess as to why Molly left Ben ten years ago. If you don't, however, James sparingly drops hints along the way so that when you do discover Molly's secret, you are not blindsided.

I loved the characters of Molly and Ben and couldn't help but feel sad for the years that they had lost due to Molly putting her trust into her mother. Unfortunately, Molly's mother is almost written like a caricature of an evil mother. I would probably have preferred that she be a bit more human or at least have some significant and believable reasons for her behavior, but none are given.

Despite a what felt like a few dialogue hiccups, the novel was well-written and paced with enough significant events to maintain readability. 

While The Firefighter's Pretend Fiancee is the fifth novel in the series, it read as a standalone. However, the epilogue ended with a mini-cliffhanger pointing to the next book, which always leaves me with a little "meh" feeling.

All in all, The Firefighter's Pretend Fiancee is an enjoyable read, which I would recommend. The only thing I hate about the novel is it's title.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Loved, loved, loved this story! It's a wonderful blend of a second chance romance and a fake relationship story that will tug all your heartstrings. Molly never intended to return to Shadow Creek but after nine years away a too good to pass up job opportunity has her returning and facing the best and worst parts of her past. Ben was definitely the best but will he ever be able to forgive her for leaving? Now the job Ben has been working towards is right at his fingertips. The only thing holding him back from his dream job of fire chief is the fact that he isn't married. When his oh so helpful brother announces to everyone that Ben and Molly have rekindled their relationship they have no choice but to go along with the lie. Will it really be so bad being with Molly again?

I definitely recommend this book!

Victoria James is one of my favorite authors because she makes me believe in love. She makes me believe that true love knows no distance or time. And with the right person, it can heal the most battered heart and soul. I’ve read every single one of her books (fifteen and counting) and I know each time I’m in for an emotional rollercoaster. I know Victoria is going to rip my heart apart, only to put it back together in the end. Even knowing this, I feel as though I am never prepared.

Victoria’s Shadow Creek, Montana series continues with The Firefighter’s Pretend Fiancée, the fifth book in the series. This is a standalone read, with small glimpses of past characters. For me, this book feels like the start of a new era for the series that will focus on three sisters.

The Firefighter’s Pretend Fiancée is a second chance love story. The story features second generation firefighter Ben Matthews and pediatrician Molly Mayberry. Nine years ago, the two were on a path working towards their hopes and dreams. Molly even had everything all planned out, down to the number of kids they would have and where they would live. The icing on the cake was Ben’s endearing proposal. Fast forward and the two are not on speaking terms. In fact, Molly doesn’t talk to any of her friends from Shadow Creek or her family. In the past nine years, Molly has only been back in town for a total of three days, to attend her father’s funeral. But things are about to change, in a very big way.

Molly is offered the once in a lifetime opportunity to head the pediatric department at the local hospital. This one year contract is even more impressive because she’s so young. She just has to avoid everyone from her past. Unfortunately, in a town as small as Shadow Creek, that is impossible. Ben has been dealing with his own problems. He and his family are in limbo, waiting to find out the status of his mother’s health. His lifetime dream of following in his father’s footsteps and becoming fire chief of the Shadow Creek Fire Department is in jeopardy because he’s too reckless and isn’t a family man. But as luck would have it, Ben’s younger brother Finn comes up with the solution of Molly pretending to be his fiancée to get the job and make their mother happy.

The charade of Ben and Molly being a couple gets out hand when they are forced to move in together. The close proximity reignites feelings just under the surface and make them realize they never stopped loving each other. “I don’t think a day has gone by where I haven’t thought of kissing you or missed kissing you.” But in order to move forward, Molly has to come clean about why she really broke up with him years ago and seemingly turned her back on her family and her hometown. “I am a doctor and I can fix people, and I can’t fix myself.”

The Firefighter’s Pretend Fiancée was classic Victoria James. This is a story of friendship, forgiveness (not only of others but also yourself), and redemption. It’s full of heart and passion. This was definitely a tearjerker so have tissues handy. I loved the playfulness of Molly and Ben, when they finally relaxed. Finn is a secondary character full of life, who provided humor throughout the story. He deserves to have his own book. I know who the future couples are going to be and I can’t wait to read their stories!

This is such a sweetly poignant story. There is a level of love and intimacy between Ben and Molly that shows the strength and depth the author has gone to create these characters. The familial relationship between the Matthews and the Mayberrys are diametrically opposite and is reflected in the different relationships between the siblings. Finn and Ben share some witty and creative banter between each other which often lightens which could have otherwise been some heavy subjects to read about. The author did a great job in showing the depth of caring that Ben had for Molly and how lasting tue love could be.

It’s no secret that if Victoria James writes it, I will read it and the fifth novel in her Shadow Creek, Montana series sees her weave her magic on the second chance and fake-relationship plotlines.

“I don’t know how to fake being engaged. Even the idea of being engaged…um, not to you personally or anything…gives me hives.”

I’ve become pretty attached to the characters we’ve got to know throughout this series and Molly and Ben are a great addition bringing a journey of reawakened feelings when Molly returns to her hometown as the hospitals head of paediatrics, and quickly finds herself co-faking engagement to the captain of the fire department and the man she loved and left, Ben.

“I thought it was the uniform that got you in the end. Women really like it.”

Smart and driven, Molly guards her heart and with good reason, yet she left Ben’s in tatters years before. But as they grow closer, she opens up and it’s this element which socks a punch to your heart, as does Ben’s unconditional support despite how things ended between them years before.

“I don’t think a day has gone by where I haven’t wanted you to touch me. I don’t think a day has gone by where I haven’t thought of kissing you or missed kissing you. And that’s why I’ve been so angry with you, because I could never forget you.”

This story was the perfect combination of romance and humour with just the right measure of angst, and Ben and Molly’s reconnection is one of love, hope and new-beginnings. And with the introduction of Molly’s sisters, Addie and Melody, and Ben’s brother, Finn—who I absolutely fell in love with—it’s no surprise that I’m excited to see what Victoria has planned for their stories. If you love a sweet small town romance, you definitely want to pick this one up.

This is a beautiful and heartbreaking second chance romance. It's a great addition to the Shadow Creek Series but can certainly be read as a standalone as well. Don't let the title fool you into thinking there is a fauxmance here...Molly and Ben don't have to fake it. They were always in love but Molly broke his heart and let painful secrets keep her away from her family and the man she loved. The scenes where she finally reveals her secrets to Ben had me in tears but it was so worth it to experience this beautiful love story.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I have enjoyed all the books in the Shadow Creek series, and this one was no exception. It is the beautiful story of Molly and Ben and their second chance at love.

The story unfolds at just the right pace with Molly and Ben each trying to make it through the fake relationship they find themselves in. Both are also trying to reconcile their past and present feelings for each other after their relationship ended badly 9 years earlier.

I don't want to say too much and give away too much, but I definitely recommend you check out this book and series.

There are appearances by some of the other Shadow Creek couples, and new characters I hope get future books of their own!

This is the first book that I have read by Victoria James and I have to say that it blew me away. This book was full of so much emotion both happy and sad that it literally gutted me. Ben and Molly have been given a second chance at love but it is all not happy sunshine and roses. Molly left Ben nine years ago and told him a lie that broke them up but she is holding on to a secret that could be a game changer in their lives. Ben is such a sweet, hot and sexy guy. He has a heart of gold and would do anything for anybody. Molly is sweet too but she is so broken from things that have happened in her past. She is stuck in this spot that she can't get out of. She comes back to her home town hoping to just come work for a year and then leave. Things do not always go as we planned. I absolutely loved this book and I loved how the story was told. I loved every character in the book and I am honestly hoping that Finn gets the next book because we are left hanging on the edge of a cliff at the end of this book. First thing tomorrow I am going to go and read the first four books in this series. Not because you have to read them but because I want to.Victoria James really knows how to tell a story and how to keep you on the edge of you seat until the very last page. I cannot wait to see where the next book in this series takes us. This is a book I would highly recommend you read. Thanks Net Galley. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.

I definitely did not expect this book to be as emotionally charged as it was, it was a rollercoaster of emotions but it was all worth it. Victoria James wrote a powerful and compelling story; while the blurb gives you an idea of what you can expect there's much more to it than just a second chance romance.

The main characters have dealt with a lot of things, Molly specially, and you can't help but want them to overcome their adversities and be together, it's not an easy road but caring for them right from the start, you can't feel any other way. I said this was more than a second chance story and it does include some very special themes but readers and fans of this series can rest assured that "love" is very much present in The Firefighter's Pretend Fiancée.

Congrats to Victoria on this wonderfully touching story and I can't wait for the next installment in the series.

3.5 Stars.
I love a fake relationship trope, it’s a guilty pleasure of mine. Nothing like two people having to pretend to be in love and then actually falling in love.
The Firefighter’s Pretend Fiancé tells the story of Molly Mayberry who returns to Shadow Creek after nine years away and has to face her everything she left behind, including her old fiancé Ben Matthews.
Ben is trying to land the job as fire chief, a job his father use to have, when Molly comes back to town. In order to make himself appear more suited to the fire chief job, Ben tells a small white lie that Molly is his fiancé. And to make up for the mess she left behind nine years ago, Molly agrees to the charade.
Sometimes you just need a nice, gentle romance to read. And that’s what The Firefighters Pretend Fiancée is. A cute, sweet romance that I really enjoyed.

I loved this well written romance. Great plot and characters. I enjoyed the author’s writing and anticipate reading more of her books. I highly recommend this book.

"Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review."

Loved this book very much. It had just enough sweet romance and the storyline was great! I highly recommend!