This was such a cute second chance, fake-dating romcom with just the right amount of heart. I love a good “oops, I based my book’s toxic male lead on my hot ex” plot. And Mason? Total grumpy hockey player with a soft spot for one woman only. That man was written to be swooned over.

Gemma had that relatable chaos energy and her inner monologue had me cackling. Her banter with Mason? Chef’s kiss. Also, their trip away together? Yes, give me all the secluded writing cabin vibes. I was rooting for their messy, slow burn from start to finish.

It was easy to fly through and left me smiling. Would recommend if you like fake dating with real feelings sneaking in when no one’s looking. Cute, funny, and a little spicy.

Gemma may have sort of based the MMC of her debut novel on Mason Moretti, the hockey star she went to high school with who kissed her and then didn't quash the rumors that he'd done it on a dare. But when she agreed to do a tv segment to promote her book, she didn't expect the host to invite Mason as well and tell him—and the world—that her character was based on him. And she definitely didn't expect Mason to suggest that the two of them fake a relationship for the good publicity they both need. But as they start spending more time together, old feelings become harder to ignore.
I. Ate. This. Book. UP. Absolutely LOVED it. Mason trying to be less of an asshole, Gemma trying to figure out what she wants and how to get it while protecting her heart, it was all so good. And Patricia Santomasso and Sean Patrick Hopkins both did a phenomenal job with the narration, which definitely added to the experience.

TW for a former controlling relationship and past miscarriages

Quick Summary: A second chance to get it right women's fiction/romance

My Review: Writing Mr. Wrong by Kelley Armstrong is a contemporary fiction novel. It is scheduled for release on 6/24/25.

About the Book: "...a second-chance rom-com about a debut author who unexpectedly goes viral when readers discover her hero was inspired by a beloved pro hockey player—and her high school crush."

In My Own Words: Once upon a time friends turned enemies reunite live on stage. Once they mutually decide to fake date, they realize that there has always been something left unsaid between them. They soon find that there is more to their story.

About the Lead Characters: Gemma and Mason were inevitable. I loved that they were both imperfect and a bit insecure. I also really loved that the author chose to feature a neurodivergent lead.

About the Secondary Characters: The cast of characters were likable, supportive, and even hilarious.

The Funniest Character: Gemma's grandmother

Most Appreciated Extra: Mental health nod

About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by Patricia Santomasso and Sean Patrick Hopkins. Their rhythm and colorful tones kept the story interesting.

My Final Say: I really liked this feel good love story. It was light, easy, and endearing. The second chance angle really worked for this couple. I appreciated their differences, especially in terms of their backgrounds. All in all, this novel was entirely entertaining.

Other: Readers who enjoy the following tropes should like this story.

Tropes - >

Second chance
Fake dating
Childhood friends
Enemies to lovers
Hockey romance
Professional writer/teacher and athlete

Rating: 3.75/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: 👍
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +

Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Hachette Audio | Forever), and to NetGalley for providing access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. I very much appreciate the opportunity. Please know that my review has been voluntarily submitted.

Second chance romance
Hockey player MMC
Romance author FMC
Fake dating
3rd person POV

Duet narration - Patricia Santomasso & Sean Patrick Hopkins

My first book by Kelley Armstrong and I think I’m a forever fan. I’m not usually a fan of 3rd person POV but the duet narration definitely helped a ton.

This was a fun listen. Great character development and story line.

Gemma is a debut romance author who based her MMC on a boy from high school. An interview reconnects them.

Mason is a famous hockey player who is getting older and not sure how long he will play. He’s recently gotten some bad press but attending an interview for Gemma’s book sparks a new opportunity.

Really enjoyed this book. It’s not super spicy but there are hints and glimpses in there.

I'm a sucker for second chance romances, and Writing Mr. Wrong was a cute listen, if not a bit predictable.

Not my fav by Canadian author Kelley Armstrong but it was still a fun second chance sports romance between a pro hockey player and a romance author who uses her former high school crush as the inspiration for the male lead in her newest book. Good on audio and recommended for fans of books like Celebrity crush by Christy Swift. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!