Fake relationship catnip. Dani is a driven PhD candidate with ever-changing hair colors and no time for a relationship. When her friend Zafir, the (hot) building security guard, rescues her from an elevator and the two of them go viral, he asks for her help. He’s trying to get his youth rugby charity off the ground, and the unexpected publicity of their “relationship” might be just the ticket. So the two friends agree to pretend to date for a month. As long as there are no feelings involved, it’s a perfect plan. Right.

This is the second book in a series, but could definitely be read as a standalone. I enjoyed the previous book featuring Dani’s older sister, but I liked this one even more. Dani and Zaf both have some emotional work to do, and watching them support each other and figure things out was a true pleasure. Plus he reads and vigorously defends romance novels. What’s not to like?

I don't often give 5 stars but this was a delightful, funny, and sweet story that for me represents the best of what Romance has to offer. The protagonists, as well as side characters, had depth and full lives and personalities. The sex scenes made sense and furthered the story. I loved the love displayed for the romance genre and the clear, empathetic attention to people who experience extreme anxiety and prolonged grief. A fantastic follow-up to Get A Life Chloe Brown.