Make Her Wish Come True is a fake-date romance that follows Abby, and aspiring journalist, and Erica, a single-mom, as they try to move their 'pretend' romance into the realm of a real one.

I admit I struggled with this story at the beginning when Abby agrees to date Erica for a story, without her knowing the real reason for her interest. I have read (and like) many fake relationship stories, but they are generally all consensual. Fake dating a single mom who didn't know she was being used (and would be photographed as well) just seemed like a really bad judgement call, and despite there being an explanation for it and Abby feeling guilty about it, I just didn't enjoy reading it and it made me like Abby a lot less. Thankfully this lasted only a couple of dates before Abby came clean, but the tone had been set. When they slide into a more traditional fake dating relationship, the story picked up but I still had a hard time liking the characters.

Erica's mom and daughter were great secondary characters. Stacy, Abby's co-worker who started all the balls rolling was an enigma and I didn't quit understand what her motivations where for much of the story.

I would have given this book an extra star if it wasn't for the actions of Abby at the beginning. Taking that out of the mix it was a fun and light romance with a cute kid and some learning from everyone on what makes a family.

3.5 ⭐I admit at first I felt uneasy about Abby lying to Erica and used her. But when Brooks finally lift the bridge of dishonesty,I felt so relieved along with the characters, and the dynamic between them change into an honest and communicating relationship. They were able to get to know each other without pressure during these fake dates and the feelings building between them was really sweet to read. What I liked most in this book was it felt realistic in how they deal with the relationship. They are both busy with their lives, making time for each other only when then can. Erica has a kid and she really puts her first and not rushing in any relationship.
Now, I was a bit annoyed with Stacy's behavior, and even Abby's at some point. I know Abby feels she owed Stacy but her behavior was really insensitive at some point and to me, she didn't deserve to be treated so delicately. Their last attempt to save both their career was the last straw to me and I even thought Erica was too forgiving and understanding with Abby.
But overall it was a really sweet holiday romance with a really cute kid

I made a big boo boo before reading this book. My fault. I sorta assumed from the cover that this was gonna be a lot more Christmas-y? But, honestly, except for the part of the story that kicks off the whole story, it just wasn't Christmas-y at all. But, while that was a bummer, I did really like the book once I looked at it through a 'rest of the year' sort of lens.

Kayla (the eight year old kid of Erica) sent a Christmas letter where she asked for a second mom so that her mom could be less tired, they could do more together, and all three of them could be a family. Abby works for Ki, a magazine, but as an admin, not as a journalist (which is what she studied for and wants to be). Stacy, her former classmate, is a journalist and a big time one, but, she's just made a promise that she's not sure that she can keep. And, somehow, the result of that is Abby fake dating Erica. Of course, while it starts as fake, soon enough it gets realer, but, Abby has problems with being a Mom so young, even a second mom. And, Erica is very very overprotective of Kayla and their hearts.

Again, I'm an idiot. I was worried towards the beginning because of how the story was going, but, Brooks was only doing a metaphorical controlled skid, not an out of control one. And, once back on the road (I'll stop with the metaphor now) the story was a fun ride to the end (oops, kept it going, apologies). One other thing that I really liked was the two family members who weren't part of the core three (Abby, Erica, Kayla). I would love to read more about Madison for sure (speed skating, cool), who is Abby's sister, and, Virginia, Erica's Mom, was a hilariously awesome character too. It was such a fun read.

I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I don't gravitate towards holiday romances, but I will read anything A.L. Brooks writes, so this was a no brainer for me. And once again, she delivers. There are many reasons why she is one of my favorite authors, but the main one is how charming and relatable her characters are.
Abby and Erica find themselves in a fake dating situation, where of course, feelings get involved. If only Abby hadn't made a vow to never get involved with someone who had kids. Kayla is 8 years old and so darn cute, how can anyone possibly resist her charms, something that seems to run in the family.
If you are an A.L. Brooks fan, you will love this. It is heartwarming, funny, and a book I can see myself rereading each Christmas. If you aren't an A.L. Brooks fan, give your life right. She is one of our best writers and I always eagerly wait her next release.

An ARC was provided by Ylva Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.

I’m absolutely justifying the early start of holiday romance reading… This was lovely, overall very wholesome and feel-good though there were some tense parts with miscommunication/deceit and slow-burn that I was not in the mood for! Still, these guys were adorable.
A jolly tone and pretty decently written, ‘Miracle on 34th street’ but make it QUEER- Love it.
This book was deliciously cheesy and predictable, I knew exactly where it was going but I was enthusiastically on board for the ride. A perfect hallmark movie sapphic romance, if you will.

It was unfortunately one of those infuriating books where you just want to yell at the characters to COMMUNICATE throughout the entire story, but they do get there in the end for their Christmas miracle HEA
I do also personally hate dishonesty and lying, so that aspect made me uncomfortable and made it difficult to like Stacy and -more importantly- Abby. I just wanted her to come clean immediately and hated her for accepting, going along with and then justifying it.
Still, alls well that ends well! And I did enjoy this

My thanks to the Publisher & NetGalley for the ARC.


This book really provided an escape from the genocide that's currently happening in Palestine. (Speaking & acknowledge my privilege).

Abby Baxter, an aspiring reporter, receives a deal from her journalist friend to fake-date a woman for a story on love. That woman being Erica Goode, a busy mother, balancing two jobs and her daughter's needs. Despite the potential for a romantic relationship, Abby's ambition is hindered by her attraction to the woman and her aversion to children.

This is definitely a warm & cozy read. I didn't feel it was super Christmassy but it had just the right amount of angst and tension for an easy read. Erica & Abby are both loveable characters and you just want things to work out for them. Having been promised fake dating, I was doubtful on how the author was going to weave it into the story but I shouldn't have been, A.L Brooks did a great job in setting the scene and binding in the fake dating aspect of it. Also no horrible third act break up, any issue that cropped up throughout the book was dealt with quickly and with what I thought was mature communication between the two main characters - a real breathe of fresh air if I'm honest!

Finally, the queer Hallmark Christmas movie in book form that I've been waiting for! It's a little girls's Christmas wish to have a second mom, for herself and also for her other mom. They're both lonely in their own ways. Little Kayla's Christmas dream kicks off some fake holigay dating where the feelings turn real quicker than a sleigh pulled by a herd of magical reindeer. Sweet, swoony, and really just trademark A.L. Brooks. I'll be coming back to this one over and over.

Thank you to NetGalley and Ylva Publishing for the opportunity to read this book and provide and honest review.

I love fake romance tropes and Brooks didn't miss a beat with this one. I highly recommend this cute, sweet, slight angst book.

Abby works for a magazine, but her dream is to become a journalist. When she gets the chance to fulfill that dream, she leaps at the chance even if its to fake date a woman, which shouldn't be that hard. She's focused on her career and nothing will get in the way of it.

Erica works two jobs and focuses on her daughter Kayla. When she gets a chance to enjoy some time away, she gives it a chance since she has no time for dating, this seemed perfect. She does her best not to let real feelings develop considering Abby wasn't so pretty and amazing.

I loved this book from start to finish and it just hooks you in from the beginning with all the feels.

I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This Christmas spirit story will have you swooning and wishing for a Christmas miracle.

Abby and Erica start fake dating after having gone on a few dates and finding it would be mutual beneficiary. There is just this small detail of burning desire and longing. So much longing! This slow burn was cute and frustrating and hot and most definitely understandable from both POV's.

Seeing these two bond during their most awesome dates (yes I was jealous) pulled at my heartstrings more than I care to acknowledge.

The only thing I wished for was more scenes between the sister and Erica but only because I love sibling dynamics.

An ARC was provided to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.

is a great contemporary fake relationship/slow burn love story between Abby trying to break into journalism and Erica a single mum working 2 jobs.. There is also Erica’s 8 yr old daughter Kayla, so cute. Kayla starts it all with her letter to Santa, what could she possibly ask for to start this?. You have to read, but you get the warm and fuzzies with this story.

This was a very unique spin on the fake dating trope. Is it still a fake dating trope if it only one of them thinks it’s fake?….or so she thought.

Abby most definitely thought she was just fake dating Erica but their mutual attraction was so palpable from the beginning. This was a well written book and though I was still a slight confused by the motive for the entire fake dating but it wasn’t hard to continue and enjoy their journey.
This was a really nice start to the holiday season. A nice fun read for anyone who enjoys sapphic romances.


4/5 stars thank you to NetGalley for providing me the opportunity to review this ARC.

A.L. Brooks hits me in all the winter feels again. I kicked off my holiday TBR list with this delightful tale of sapphic romance. If you're a fan of the
fake dating trope like me, then you'll be happily invested and truly delighted by stories end. Thoroughly enjoyed!


Thank you to Ylva Publishing and NetGalley for providing an eARC for a honest review.

Fake it - surprise you made it: lesbian romance
What can you do when an adorable kid asks Santa for a second mom? Well, you can write a holiday, fake-dating romance with a pleasant balance between sizzling attraction, light-heartedness and a good sprinkle of serious topics. I loved how Brooks came up with a really good mix. The fake-dating between Abby and Erica goes on for all the wrong reasons and they live the lie far too long, but all ends well - so no complaints.
The mutual attraction was very well written as was the backstory of both main characters. No make-believe necessary when a great writer brings all characters to full technicolor life.
A very enjoyable holiday read.

I received an ARC via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.

Make Her Wish Come True is an excellent way to ease into the spirit of the fast approaching Christmas. Full of heart felt moments it gives you all those squishy feelings of falling in love and being a part of a family.
Brooks sure knows how to spice things up in this slow burn “fake romance”. I loved it!

Holiday romances always tug on my heartstrings and when you have one with an adorable kid asking Santa for a second mom, well cue the swoony holiday tunes! A.L. Brooks does a lovely job with the descriptive details, dialogue, and pacing. Abby and Erica go on a variety of dates and I felt like I was right there with them. The emotions that run through this story are plentiful and palpable. And the sexy scenes are just so sexy and sweet at the same time!

I found the relationship development between Abby and Erica to be a highlight for me. The time they took to learn about one another really helped to fan the flames of attraction and strengthen their connection. I applaud them for not shying away from talking about the hard stuff, even from the start. And their chemistry was smoking! I adored the little looks, the stolen glances, and the longing. It was all so delicious! Plus, that salsa scene most definitely had me fanning myself.

Make Her Wish Come True is a delightful read that captivated me from the first page. Abby and Erica are two wonderfully relatable main characters whose journey to happiness is filled with so many deep emotions that truly resonated with me. The supporting characters are well-developed and add a beautiful layer to the overall story, especially Erica’s daughter Kayla, who is both adorable and charming. The romance, while complex, is filled with sweet and tender moments as well as steam and spice. I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful fake relationship holiday tale!

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Erica Goode was doing everything she could do to keep a roof over her daughter's head. So far she was working two jobs that left her little time to actually do something with seven year old Kayla. Making ends meet was a challenge but living and sharing expenses with her mother Virginia. She didn’t date mainly because she just didn’t have the time.
Abby Baxter had a different life than Erica. She wanted to be a journalist but had to put her education on hold to help care for her family but now she was ready. When her good friend Stacy, who wrote for a magazine called to let her know of an opening she jumped. Now she’s working where she wants but instead of writing she spends her time doing office stuff.
Stacy's column was losing readers and she asked Abby to help come up with a story that would interest readers. What could be better than writing stories about the kids that wrote to Santa. Seeing if they got their wishes or not. Kayla Goode wrote that she really wanted her mother to meet someone. Someone to fall in love with.
The real gift for any author is how they bring all the threads together, making a few ideas and shaping it into a very enjoyable read. Another great read by a wonderful author who knows how to tell a story.
ARC via NetGalley/ Ylva Publishing

Brooks writes books that I enjoy. This story is a bit simplistic but tons of fun.
It goes from fake dating, with only one party being aware is fake, to friend dating, to knowingly fake dating. And this, of course, leads to catching feelings.

I’d say the focus, and the blind eyes turned, for a career is something that just doesn’t sit right with me. I also feel like the resolution to that storyline is too easy and “perfect”.

I would recommend this for a wholesome and fun read. With a kid character that doesn’t annoy me. (Bonus points)

4.25⭐️
Kayla, the eight-year-old daughter of single mom Erica, wants a second mom. Not only for herself but also so her mom wouldn’t need to work two jobs and would have more time for her. Her solution? She writes a letter to Santa. He can make wishes come true, right?

This letter is the beginning of an enjoyable fake romance between Erica and Abby. The only problem? The attraction between the two is anything but fake.

Erica isn't averse to a romantic relationship, but she only comes as a package with Kayla. One stumbling block, however, is that she doesn't have any time to date at all; she prefers to spend her sparse free time with Kayla, who is clearly the #1 in her life and she will do anything to protect her. If only Abby wasn't so darn attractive. Or at least would like children.

Abby's dream is to work as a journalist. But sometimes life has other plans and so Abby had to take a detour to her goal when, after the death of her mother, she took responsibility for her half-sister Madison. Now, at 28, she finally has her freedom back and doesn’t want to give it up soon again. Eventually, she has a foot in journalism, only as an admin assistant yet, but at least at the renowned magazine Ki. And she will do almost anything to achieve her goal of writing stories.

I love the trope of a fake relationship. And A.L. Brooks did an amazing job. Abby and Erica are well-defined women, with all the good character traits, but also their flaws. Their fears, insecurities, and worries are real and easy to relate to. The attraction and feelings are palpable, but so is the reluctance. But when love spreads in your heart, you are powerless - some just take a little longer to realize it.

Kayla is also well portrayed, with her typical childish mood swings from vain sunshine to a thunderstorm and back again in no time. She sneaks into your heart unbidden, whether you like it or not. In addition, the rest of the supporting cast is also very important, well-developed, and perfectly integrated.

A wonderful story of false to real love with endearing characters and an adorable child.
Thanks to Ylva and NetGalley for receiving an ARC for an honest review.

I do not believe I have read anything from A. L. Brooks before but am glad I read this one. It was a fun, easy, slow-burn story. I don't have kids, so was glad for the perspective on dating while having youngsters. thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book early.

I’ve been a fan of AL Brooks since I got into sapphic romance a couple years ago and have been very much been looking forward to the release of her latest, Make Her Wish Come True. Admittedly, I’ve been in a bit of a book slump the past couple weeks and needed a book that I knew I would be a winner and I’m happy to report that this book did not disappoint!

One of the things that I love most about Brooks’s stories is that the characters are not perfect people. They are deeply flawed and sometimes do things for the wrong or selfish reasons, but to me that’s what makes her writing so believable and charming. This book was the perfect example of that with Abby, whose early actions are motivated by wanting to further her career and Erica, who made some mistakes when she was young that completely changed her life. Not only do we get to go on a wonderful slow-burn romantic journey with them, we also get to experience their growth as people and as a couple. To me, this is what sets good authors apart from great ones.

On a lighter note, I also really loved the secondarily characters in this book. I’m a sucker for a cute kid and a cute kid asking for a second mom for Christmas? Yeah…total goo.

Lastly, I give Brooks kudos for the very unique plot line. Yes, fake dating is nothing groundbreaking as far as a romance trope. But it’s done in a very unique way here and the story felt fresh and very well thought out.

Overall one of my favorite books of the year so far! If you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and fall in love with AL Brooks. This book is a great place to start.

I received an ARC of this ebook from Netgalley and all opinions are my own.