Grab your coziest blanket and a hot cocoa, because we need to talk about Lauren Blakely's My Favorite Holiday! If you're anything like me and adore a good fake-dating trope, especially when it's wrapped up in a sparkly Christmas bow, then you are in for an absolute treat!

So, our fabulous heroine, Fable, is on a mission. Her "Wanted" ad basically reads: "Hot billionaire to pose as my Christmas boyfriend. Must be willing to make my cheating ex jealous by kissing me under the mistletoe at holiday parties. Bonus if you make him cry." I mean, relatable, right? We've all been there, or at least dreamed of it!

And who steps up to the plate? None other than her super-sexy billionaire boss, Wilder Blaine! He's a single dad, he desperately needs a plus-one for a Christmas Eve wedding where he's the best man and she's the maid of honor (and yes, her ex is also in the wedding party – the drama!), so it's a perfect fake-dating storm. They team up as a pair of instant lovebirds for the entire holiday season, even participating in a week-long Christmas competition leading up to the snowy destination wedding. How cute is that?!

What starts as innocent (or maybe not-so-innocent!) late nights crafting the best popcorn balls for the contest quickly spirals into a passionate night together, because, let's be real, the sparks between Fable and Wilder are impossible to ignore. Like, seriously, you could light up a Christmas tree with their chemistry!

But here's the big question that kept me turning the pages (or rather, listening intently!): when the holidays end, can their magical winter wonderland romance actually turn into something real back at the office? Or are they destined to go the way of a Christmas tree on New Year's Day? You'll have to read (or listen!) to find out, but trust me, the journey is worth it.

5 STARS.

I loooooooooooooooooved "My Favorite Holidate" by Lauren Blakely!! My god, this book is PERFECT. Fake dating to get back at a horrible ex-turned-real feelings, a single dad with an adorable daughter, endless loads of banter between characters, eventual spiciness all over the place, holiday games and sweaters.... I loved every single second of it! I got fully invested in the characters, I loved the settings, I love the holiday cheer and festivities, I loved the friendships and family dynamics, everything is just so good and so well written! I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I yanked at my collar, I fell in love while reading it. The main characters, Fable and Wilder, are a top-tier book couple! I also loved Wilder's daughter, Mac. Some of the stuff that happens in this book *is* super cheesy and borderline Hallmark-y, but I don't mind this during holiday novels. In fact, I encourage it! GAHHHHH, I was just enamored with this one. I'm talking kicking your feet, blushed-out, squeeeeeing the entire read! This is my first time reading a book by Lauren Blakely, but it certainly won't be my last. I will definitely revisit this book every single holiday season to get myself in the Christmas spirit. PLEASE READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you to NetGalley, Lauren Blakely, and Atria Books for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

as usual Lauren does it again!
If you looking for a fun holiday romance book, this is your go to.

If you love Fake Dating, Single Dad, Billionaire romance, Banter and lot's of spice. This book hits the spot.

I loved that it is wrapped around one of my favorite holidays and such an easy read. You don't want to miss the banter. Watch as two characters go through their own mishaps but in the end find the true love. As usual Lauren Blakely does it again.

a Fun holiday romance. I will be re reading this come Christmas time for sure.

The character portrayals were particularly compelling, with Wilder Blaine standing out. His depiction subverted the traditional grumpy billionaire CEO archetype, showcasing him as an affectionate, considerate partner and dedicated father. Furthermore, Wilder's expressions of affection for Fable were notably endearing.

A highlight of the narrative was the couple's commitment to private practice to enhance their public believability. Early scenes, such as Fable's accidental sexting and Wilder's playful demeanor, were highly engaging. The incorporation of Christmas-themed humor and puns provided a delightful, festive element.
The aforementioned novel provided an engaging experience, and I found myself captivated by the romantic narrative. The characters' interactions were particularly compelling, and I completed the book within a single day.

Our sincere appreciation extends to Lauren Blakely, NetGalley, and Atria Books for providing the e-copy in exchange for an impartial review.

A fake dating Christmas romance with oodles of holiday spirit and chemistry. It may have ruined my favorite seasonal beverage for me but I really liked Fable and Wilder and enjoyed their chemistry together. I do hate an overly contrived third act breakup and the one in this book was seemed even more pointless than usual. A cute read that will get you ready to break out your Christmas decorations and hang some mistletoe.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review .

What a great way to kick off holiday reading!

I love fake dating as a trope, and this one does a pretty decent job. I did start to get frustrated with both MCs when they wouldn't just TALK TO EACH OTHER ABOUT THEIR FEELINGS. Like just talk to each other, please.

The side characters really stole the show. I would like to know more about Aunt Bibi and her life, she definitely has a fun story to tell. And Mac was sassy and adorable.

Cute holiday Rom Com. Enjoyed the chem here and the overall vibe was giving wedding scenes from The Materialists (iykyk).

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for letting me read the E-Arc for an honest review!

I literally read this E-Arc in a day because I could not put it down. The story had so many great moments. Sweet, cute, family oriented and spicy. This was my first time reading this author. I rarely read books about billionaires and fake dating so this was a first.

Basically what the vibe I got was sweet, cute, and spicy rolled all in one.

I enjoyed how Wilder interactions with his family, ex and with Fable. The chemistry and discussions between Wilder and Fable had such an amazing connection. It sizzled, it laughed and it had heartfelt moments. I loved the hot chocolate moment! You have to read the book to find out whatever that means.

The story combines romance, work, friends, family but also with a competitive side of events for the holidays. So to some readers (maybe) the plot might be all over the map but I felt the romance throughout the entire storyline. Plus there are a few surprises that pop up in the story as well. It’s a must read if you are looking for fake dating, billionaire, holiday events, and fun.

I am definitely getting a physical copy of this book for my collection.

Lauren Blakely delivers another delightful holiday romance that perfectly captures the festive spirit, serving all the holiday vibes! This book made me eager for Christmas!!

I love how the characters were portrayed, especially Wilder Blaine. He breaks the typical grumpy billionaire CEO persona, revealing himself as a caring, sweet partner and devoted father. And don’t get me started on Wilder’s love language because that man was down bad for Fable. Like… we knew he liked her since before but watching him buy Fable the smallest, yet meaningful gifts had me melting for him.
One of my favorite parts of the book was their dedication to practicing in private to make it “believable” in public. The early scenes, including Fable’s accidental sexting and Wilder’s playful, mischievous side, had me fully engaged. The Christmas-themed humor and puns added a charming, festive touch.

Honestly, I have a lot of favorite scenes when it comes to this book, but one that had me laughing and loving Fable was her accidental sexting towards Wilder. The book had me giggling and loving how chaotic Fable could be. Also, how Fable and Wilder had feelings for each other and instead of telling each other, they would ask if they should practice, which had me loving how dedicated they both were to practice.

Overall, My Favorite Holidate is a heartwarming, fun, and festive read if you are looking to get into the holiday spirit.

3.5 stars for my Favorite Holidate

Christmas in July arrived early this year as I was gifted a copy of My Favorite Holidate to review. This is a cute hallmark rom- com Christmas story with spice!

Fable just found out that her boyfriend was cheating on her, at Thanksgiving dinner worst of all. It happens to be that he is a groomsman in her sister’s wedding. Will he bring the girl he cheated with?

Wilder is the b o s s. Rich, her literal boss, owns everything and has a sweet daughter named Mac. Wilder is the best man in Leo’s wedding. Charlotte is Fable’s sister and she is maid of honor. This entire wedding week takes place in a hallmark town with Christmas game competitions. To take down the enemy— and to get matchmaking aunts off of their back, Fable and Wilder “fake date” for the holidays. But, when Heat turns up and things become too real, how will it end?

The book is so cute and wholesome. I loved the dynamic and fable was a perfect FMC. I have not read any other books by Lauren, but it seems each character and friend had their own story. I’d be curious to dive in! I loved how Mature Mac was, and how the family vibe felt so genuine. I enjoyed this story for what it was. Only criticism I had, it seemed a bit long at times for a holiday book. Otherwise, I did enjoy it and it got me into the Christmas spirit!

Thank you to Lauren Blakely, NetGalley, and Atria Books for this e-copy in exchange for my honest review! 🎄

This book was my introduction to Lauren Blakely and I couldn’t have asked for a better one! This was such a fun read and so perfect for the upcoming Christmas season. It has all the best tropes — billionaire single dad, he spoils her, small town, one bed, office romance, nicknames and fake/revenge dating!

While attending a party at her billionaire boss’ house, Fable Calloway’s world is turned upside down when she finds her boyfriend cheating with the caterer. Moments later, her sister becomes engaged and her now ex-boyfriend is going to be in the wedding party with her. Fable needs someone to step in as her plus-one; Someone who will make her ex jealous. Enter billionaire boss Wilder Blaine! He’s tall, confident, fiercely protective, devastatingly handsome, has abstract tattoos covering his arms, smells like falling snow and midnight and knows *exactly* how to treat a woman. In the weeks leading up to the wedding, they “practice” their fake relationship and as it turns out, it’s not so fake after all!

One thing I absolutely loved about this book was the banter between all the characters. There were some real laugh out loud moments! Also, Wilder and Fable’s chemistry was off the charts! The tension was so palpable and the constant trying to talk themselves out of how they really felt for each other drove me crazy (in a good way, of course!) It made the outcome that much more rewarding!

As for the spice? Desks, mouth apologies, ribbon, bows, Christmas lights and a Christmas tree. I’ll just leave it at that!

Overall, I loved this read and would recommend it to any romance lover who wants a fun, kinky kind of Christmas!

Favorite Quotes

“𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵.”

“𝘐’𝘮 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘭𝘺, 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺, 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺, 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺, 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳.”

Cute, and a little cheesy, but overall a fun hallmark-y (with spice) holiday romance!

This book started out a little slow, and I wasn’t sure where exactly it was going to take us, but thankfully after a few chapters it picked up. I loved the fake dating aspect and of course the one bed. The Christmas competition and games were so much fun! I absolutely love those kind of things in Christmas books, always brings a little competitiveness and higher stakes to the book.

Fable and Wilder were a cute couple. Wilder wasn’t your typical billionaire, since he wasn’t raised that way, and I liked that we got to see the “regular” side of him. Fable was cute and sweet, and I absolutely loved reading about her jewelry ventures.

The spicy scenes were good, but the dialogue was definitely cringy at times. I know it’s a book, so things have to be said, but some of them gave me the ick.

Overall, I thought this was a fun holiday romance. I absolutely love new cover, and I think it’s going to be perfect for the holiday season.

Also Body sucks 😝

Thank you Netgalley and Atria for an advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Tropes
-Fake Dating
-Forced Proximity
-Billionaire
-Holiday
-Christmas Themed Competition
-Dual POV/First Person

Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for allowing me access to this eARC, even though I think I missed the deadline for it. Oops. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Not gonna lie, I almost dnfd when we got to the gargling on the eggnog part. 🤢 never thought anyone would refer to a man's... as that. Almost threw up in my mouth.
After getting past that, I had a good time. It was an interesting story with alot of hardship and the games were entertaining. I love seeing the bad guy get his just desserts.
The third act break up though? One of the stupidest reasons I've ever seen, plus was solved super duper quick, almost like it didn't need to happen at all which tbh didn't.
I'm glad Wilder solved things with his dad, even though I feel like THAT was solved too quickly too. Actually most conflicts were just tied up to quick in my opinion. In my experience a life long addiction can't just be solved might quick no matter how much you'd want it to. I feel like there would have been more conflict and resistance on the dad's side, unless he genuinely wanted to get help which, I guess he did. 🤷🏼‍♀️
Also found Wilder to he a bit too Perfect, if that's even possible?

Regardless, I did have a fun time. Even bought the actual finished ebook when it was on sale. Would recommend.
Also my first Lauren Blakely book, and I will be reading more too. So there's that lol

fake dating + christmas + billionaire romance? that is so my brand, so the second I saw this one pop up, I didn’t even hesitate...I hit request like my life depended on it. the setup had everything I usually love: festive vibes, forced proximity, a little ex drama, and a hot guy pretending to be the boyfriend. holiday chaos? sign me up.

while it definitely had its moments—the banter, the cozy holiday backdrop, the tension that finally boils over—I gotta be honest: this book felt like it was trying to do too much. There were so many subplots layered in and full side-character conversations that never really went anywhere... it started to feel like the romance was getting buried under all the extra fluff. I kept finding myself wanting to skip ahead just to get back to the actual story.

with that said, I loved the dynamic between wilder & fable. their chemistry was instant & the whole fake-it-til-you-make-it energy worked so well for them. I was rooting for them from the start—even when they were being oblivious. their moments together had that perfect blend of spark & softness. when things finally got steamy? Let’s just say the tension paid off.

wilder as a single dad?? loved that. his bond with his daughter felt real and grounded, and it gave his character a little more weight than the usual charming billionaire stereotype. I really appreciated how the relationship with his ex was handled—no unnecessary drama, just two people figuring it out and putting their kid first. It felt realistic & wholesome.

overall... it was a cute read with some strong characters, good tension, and festive charm.

huge thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the arc!

This is one of my favorite books! I have an unnatural obsession with fake dating, and when it’s done correctly, there’s no better trope. And this book does it exquisitely! It gave me all the classic moments I wanted:
• Ground rules
• Mutual pining
• Questioning if it’s real or fake
• A meddling, matchmaking daughter

But Lauren Blakely also elevates this story with phenomenal banter that starts in Chapter 1, a billionaire single dad, and a lovable, hilarious FMC. The internal monologues had me vibrating with laughter and kicking my feet. And honey, the spice in this book!! Momma needs a cold rag because this baby is STEAMY! All men should take notes from Wilder on the proper ways to apologize to a woman.

This may be a holiday romance, but it’s too good not to read all year round!

3.5 ⭐️

A cute holiday rom com by Lauren Blakely! I relished in this festively fun story. It had engaging banter and playful tone. The characters were emotionally grounded and the supporting characters were charming additions.

Thank you Net Galley and Atria Books for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

Cute little holiday story. Enjoyed it and the cozy romance feelings during the “winter”. Can’t wait to read more by her!

Lauren Blakely will have you in all the festive feels no matter the season. There is something so cozy in a holiday romance. While it’s 40 degrees Celsius (I’m Canadian don’t forget) outside, picturing all the snowy winter activities is a breath of fresh, crisp air. I love a good fake romance, it’s never fake for long. These two can’t resist the pull of the family closeness. With the perfect mini matchmaker in his charming young daughter, they are doomed to fall helplessly, hopelessly in love. The story of Fable and Wilder is a delight of ooey gooey goodness, chemistry hot enough to melt a snowman and pure holiday fun. I love all the cast closeness, a family full of love and support. This story is the perfect heat escape.

My Favorite Holidate delivers everything I wish a Hallmark holiday movie could be! The cheery, festive atmosphere is so compelling that despite reading this in July, I'm already anticipating Thanksgiving and Christmas! Fable and Wilder are truly couple goals and their story has gotten me interested in more single-dad books because there's an honesty in their relationship that was so refreshing.

Fable's connections with her loved ones were genuinely endearing and felt especially relatable during the holiday backdrop. While her relationships outside of Wilder were clearly conceived, they seemed more described than dramatized, creating some distance between reader and characters. She is clearly an FMC who leads with her full heart.

The importance of family and friendship was at the forefront for these characters — isn't that what the holidays should celebrate? These relationships made it clear who Fable and Wilder are as people. Their attraction felt authentic, with genuine spark that translated through the page. Their private and public banter stayed true to their characters even with their individual challenges, I found myself rooting for them throughout.

The narrative momentum shifted in the final act with more action driving the plot and the rhythm felt changed from the previous more dialogue-driven pacing. The concluding conversations were satisfying and had a mature, good-hearted nature to them.

This book was such a delightful, cozy holiday read—I'd definitely recommend it for anyone who enjoys Hallmark and Netflix holiday movies.

Lauren Blakely is so funny! I haven't read her in a while so this one was a great surprise and reminded why I love her books so much. If you're looking for a holiday romance to add to your list then this is the one you should grab!