Honest review of Faking It With The Billionaire Player

by Ava Locke (Author)

Updated at: 19/02/2025

In Ava Locke's Faking It With The Billionaire Player, Lily Anderson, a kind-hearted therapist, finds herself unexpectedly entangled with Connor Hartley, her brother's best friend – a brooding billionaire football legend. Connor, all brooding intensity and hidden vulnerability, needs Lily to pretend to be his girlfriend to quell the rumors surrounding him. Their fake relationship quickly becomes complicated as Lily's soft heart melts beneath Connor's gruff exterior, revealing a surprising depth of emotion. As their connection deepens, they navigate the challenges of their charade, battling both public scrutiny and their undeniable attraction. Will their pretend romance evolve into something real, or will the game change before they can claim their happily ever after?

Faking It With The Billionaire Player: A Best Friends Brother Grumpy Sunshine Sports Romance

5 / 10 ratings

Review Faking It With The Billionaire Player

Oh my goodness, "Faking It With The Billionaire Player" was a complete and utter delight! From the very first page, I was hooked by the sizzling chemistry between Lily and Connor. Ava Locke masterfully crafts this grumpy-sunshine romance, perfectly balancing the angst and the humor to create a truly captivating read. The "best friend's brother" trope is a classic for a reason, and Locke executes it flawlessly. The initial tension between Lily, the compassionate therapist with a heart of gold, and Connor, the brooding, injured football superstar with a billionaire's swagger, is palpable. You can practically feel the sparks flying across the page!

I loved how the "fake dating" premise wasn't just a flimsy plot device; it actually served to deepen their connection. Watching their relationship evolve from forced proximity and grudging smiles to genuine affection and undeniable love was incredibly satisfying. The author expertly portrays the gradual unveiling of Connor's vulnerability beneath his tough exterior, making him a truly compelling character. He's not just a handsome, wealthy athlete; he's complex, flawed, and ultimately, incredibly endearing.

Lily is equally well-developed. She's smart, strong, and fiercely independent, yet she's also incredibly kind and empathetic. Their interactions felt natural and believable, brimming with witty banter and moments of genuine tenderness. The intimate scenes are hot, without being gratuitous, perfectly complementing the emotional journey of their relationship. They're not just physically attracted; there's a real emotional depth to their connection that truly resonated with me.

Beyond the central romance, the supporting characters are well-rounded and contribute to the story's richness. The familial dynamics, particularly Connor's relationship with his best friend (Lily's brother), add another layer of emotional complexity and heartfelt moments. The plot itself moves at a satisfying pace, keeping you engaged from beginning to end. There's just enough drama and conflict to keep things interesting, but it never feels contrived or over-the-top.

The ending was perfect – a satisfying resolution that left me feeling warm and fuzzy, without feeling rushed or unrealistic. The "happily ever after" felt earned, a testament to the strong foundation built throughout the story. Overall, "Faking It With The Billionaire Player" is a fantastic read, expertly blending romance, humor, and heartwarming moments into an unforgettable story. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating, steamy, and emotionally satisfying romance novel. It’s the kind of book you'll want to devour in one sitting, then immediately reread!