Sometimes it takes a second or even third chance for true love to win out. A classic case of fake dating except this time it’s with an ex sets the stage for this tale of learning to love yourself before you can face your future even if it’s staring you in the face. Winters adult debut is mesmerizing, heartbreaking, and heartwarming as Denz and Braylon come to terms with their pasts and their futures.

Not me hiding my Kindle during the steamy parts and hiding my tears during the heartfelt serious moments while on a plane (the laughter I figured I could get away with). This book has it all.

I’ll admit I originally grabbed this title for the cover. Second chance romances are hit and miss for me, but I like the fake dating trope and so was curious how this would play out and how much I’d enjoy it. I ended up loving it! The handling of both tropes was done so well and every character (including the side characters) had rich and complex personalities along with growth. I wouldn’t mind seeing a companion book with a different character as I didn’t want to say goodbye to any of them.

Thank you to Julian Winters, St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for free access to the digital version of this book for my unbiased opinion.

This is a story of POC LGBTQ Joy!! I was so happy to find this book especially when I realized that it was going to be a romance with typical romance tropes that just happened to feature MCs who are usually featured as side characters.

Denz and Bray (now Braylon after living in England, thank you very much) have a complicated history. So when Braylon shows up in Atlanta just as Denz is on the verge of getting promoted into the CEO position of his family's business, things only get more complicated.

Denz needs to show his family that he is serious. Braylon needs all Denz's city connections to help his non-profit thrive. So, they begin fake dating only until they both get their desired professional goals.

The pop culture references, the witty conversation, the hilarious and over-meddling big family, the Hotlanta vibes...all of them made this a rom com of its very own. We've seen this trope before but not with these specifics and again the fact that it stars rich, three-dimensional MCs that usually don't get to have their love story told is what makes this book stand out. (And hopefully, it will be joined by many others so that Love is Love is Love is normalized.)

Keep going, Julian Winters! You're on a roll!

"I Think They Love You" by Julian Winters is a delightful and steamy romance that uses the fake dating and second chance romance tropes quite well. The book celebrates community, found family, and being true to yourself. There is plenty of grin inducing witty banter and laugh out loud moments in the book. The book also deals with tough topics such as imposter syndrome and anxiety in a nice balance. I rooted for Denz and Braylon from the get go and I loved watching their romantic journey.

Many thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced readers copy of the book.

First I would like to thank Net Galley & Julian Williams for providing me an ARC of this book.

Now to the review:
Overall, I loved this book and the characters. Personally, I think the strongest chapters are CH 22 and the epilogue which lowkey made my heart melt. Since I am a college student I've been reading this over the last couple of months. Initially, I struggled to get into the book, but when it hit about the halfway mark the book became more interesting. I tend to read books all the way through even if I'm not fully feeling it, but I feel like those who do DNF books would probably do so. The only reason my opinion/view changed was because of the second half of the book and honestly, the last 2 chapters made up for the beginning of the book.
Also some writing feedback, but not really... in the epilogue it mentions a Jayne Austen book... I'm curious and want to know if Winters had a specific one in mind when writing that line or if it was a general statement.

Julian Winters’ *Think They Love You* is a hilarious, heartwarming rom-com that delivers all the delightful chaos of fake dating, second chances, and navigating the beautiful messiness of love and self-discovery. It’s a story that’s equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and achingly tender—a celebration of love in all its forms: romantic, familial, and self-directed.

The story follows Denzel “Denz” Carter, an ambitious but flustered heir apparent to his family’s business empire. When his father unexpectedly announces his retirement, Denz feels the pressure to prove he’s not just capable of taking the reins, but also a steady, reliable leader. In a spur-of-the-moment bid to impress, he lies about being in a committed relationship—a lie that spirals into comedic territory when the only person who can help him is Braylon, his ex and the man who once broke his heart.

Denz and Braylon’s fake dating arrangement is as chaotic as you’d expect, brimming with witty banter, hilariously awkward moments, and just the right amount of romantic tension to keep readers hooked. Winters writes their interactions with a sharpness and sincerity that make their chemistry leap off the page. The evolution of their relationship—from grudging allies to something deeper—is paced perfectly, balancing humor with emotional depth in a way that feels natural and deeply satisfying.

At its core, *Think They Love You* isn’t just about romance; it’s about identity, healing, and growth. Denz’s journey of self-acceptance is as compelling as his relationship with Braylon, and Winters weaves themes of self-worth and personal evolution into the narrative with grace. The story is a reminder that love isn’t just about finding the right person, but also becoming the best version of yourself. Braylon, too, is a well-rounded character with his own motivations and insecurities, making their dynamic feel grounded and authentic.

The supporting cast adds a vibrant, comedic layer to the story, from Denz’s big, meddlesome family to the quirky colleagues and community members who make their lives both complicated and joyous. Winters excels at creating a rich, diverse world that feels alive and inclusive, making every interaction sparkle with personality and warmth.

The pacing is lively and engaging, keeping readers entertained while giving enough space for the quieter, more introspective moments to land. Winters’ prose is fresh and witty, filled with laugh-out-loud lines and tender observations that make the story both a joy to read and emotionally resonant. Whether it’s a sharp exchange during a family dinner or a vulnerable confession in a quiet moment, the writing captures the highs and lows of Denz and Braylon’s journey beautifully.

*Think They Love You* is a hilarious and heartfelt rom-com that offers a story full of second chances, falling back in love, and finding yourself amid the chaos of family, ambition, and romance. It’s a must-read for fans of fake dating tropes, queer romance, and stories that leave you with a big smile and an even bigger heart. Five stars—it’s the kind of book you’ll want to hug when you’re done.

Thanks to NetGalley for the digital advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Honestly, I didn’t hate this book, but I’m not really a fan either. I just couldn’t connect with any of the characters. The main character came off as annoying. There wasn’t anything interesting about them, and I found myself forcing my way through to finish it. It started off strong, but then it slowed down and got kind of boring.

Julian Winters has done it again with I Think They Love You! This heartfelt and joyful novel beautifully captures the complexities of friendship, identity, and self-acceptance. Winters’ signature wit and emotional depth shine as the protagonist navigates the ups and downs of discovering their true self while leaning on the love and support of those around them. A perfect blend of humor and heart, this book will leave readers smiling and feeling truly seen. Highly recommended for fans of feel-good contemporary YA!

This was an enjoyable fake-dating story! Denz and Braylon dated earlier in life, but went on separate paths. With Denz and Braylon both using the relationship as leverage for their respective careers, can they have it all?

I found this book enjoyable as I like the fake-dating trope, but also it gave perspective on families and making decisions for yourself. Denz develops throughout the story as he has a little bit of soul searching in regard to his life, and also who he is and who he wants to be.

I Think They Love You by Julian Winters is everything I could want in a rom-com and more. Denzel “Denz” Carter is the perfect protagonist—flawed, relatable, and oh-so-charming as he fumbles through fake dating his ex, Braylon, in a bid to win the CEO spot at his family’s company. The premise is delightfully over-the-top in the best way, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, heartfelt emotions, and just the right amount of drama.

What truly shines in this story is the chemistry between Denz and Braylon. Their banter is sharp, their history is palpable, and watching them navigate their second-chance fake relationship had me rooting for them from page one. Winters does a masterful job exploring themes of forgiveness, growth, and the messy, beautiful journey of learning to love yourself while loving someone else.

The supporting cast is just as vibrant—from Denz’s hilariously meddling family to the warm and diverse queer community that surrounds him. This book celebrates big, complicated families and the importance of chosen family with so much heart.

Funny, swoony, and filled with all the feels, I Think They Love You is an absolute gem. If you love fake dating, second chances, or rom-coms that leave you smiling and tearing up at the same time, this one’s a must-read!

Thank you to NetGalley and Saint Martin’s Press for providing me with an ARC of this title!

When Denzel “Denz” Carter’s father announces his retirement from their family’s famous event planning business, Denz competes against his sister to take over the role of CEO. No one takes Denz seriously or believes he’s up for the job, so he impulsively tells his family that he does take things seriously, offering up his long-term boyfriend as proof. The only issue? Denz doesn’t have a boyfriend - long-term or otherwise. Denz needs to find a fake boyfriend fast and a chance meeting with his ex from college seems perfect. He soon realizes that despite how different Braylon is and how heartbroken he left Denz, Denz still harbors feelings for the man. And his feelings might be requited. Will their fake dating scheme turn into a second chance at love?

Every romance novel follows similar beats but there was something about this one that felt especially predictable. Nothing surprised me, nothing of note stood out to me - either positively or negatively. Long story short: I feel largely indifferent towards this novel. I love fake dating and I have nothing against a second chance romance but it felt like this novel was missing something. I’m already struggling to remember what happened after reading it this same month. I found myself bored through most of it, wishing the characters were more interesting and the plot was less bland. Braylon was especially boring in my opinion, with no discernible personality traits other than “nice.”

Denz is a frustrating main character to follow. He makes mistakes at his job that I think deserved greater consequences and he judges his sister Kami for not helping to plan one of the events when he himself shows up late and hungover.

I had to force myself to pick up this book and finish it. From reading Winters’s YA novels, I know he’s a talented writer capable of more interesting, layered stories. I Think They Love You just isn’t one of them.

Thank you to St Martins Press for this eARC! This was a nice read! It was an interesting take on a second chance romance story. Denz and Braylon have a lot of baggage between them that needs to be unpacked. Their chemistry is undeniable, even if their communication is really complicated and frustrating. The family drama is really well balanced though. Denz's whole family is tough on each other and competitive when it comes to business but the are able to soften immediately when they see a family member who needs help. Overall a really good read!

I liked how realistic this book was and that the relationship between the two main characters felt raw and real. The characters (including the supporting ones) all were very complex and I felt as though I saw myself a lot in the struggles they were facing with family and life pressures. I was rooting for the two main characters and all the twists within the plot had me fully engrossed in the story. Overall, one of my fav reads this year!

Unfortunately I didn't enjoy much about this book, even though I really wanted to. It was hard to root for a main character who felt obnoxious and arrogant, and I think there was just a disconnect between me and some major plot points (like the importance of the family business).

I'm so glad I was able to read this second chance M/M adult debut by Julian Winters!

Read this for:
- Fake dating
- Forced proximity
- Just a hookup
- Only one bed
- Second chance
- Workplace

Denzel Carter must prove to his family that he is capable of taking over as CEO at his well known and respected family's event planning company. He's up against his trusted sister, but there cannot be any wavering for him in his goals. When an unexpected foil to his plan leaves him with his ex wanting a favor and him needing one as well, he is suddenly fake dating his college former lover.

When Braylon shows up different after his time away in London, Denz isn't sure about this fake relationship and letting everything ride on it for getting his family's approval of being stable. As the two spend time together, they have to let go of the past versions they have of one another in their heads and start to see each other as the adult's they have grown into.

Braylon keeps showing up for Denz in so many ways that are unexpected. Denz tried to fight it, but he starts to fall for the current version of Braylon. Then tension heats up and the two decide that hooking up is not off the table. The fake dating starts to become real but Denz has to learn a few hard lessons of changing himself before he can really be ready for a relationship with Braylon.

This was such a sweet story between the two ex college lovers who both had to grow and change to be ready for one another again. I adored seeing all of the Atlanta places in the book! It was the best getting to see my city represented. I really loved the way that both Braylon and Denz had to face themselves and their issues. Braylon had done that previously with all the traumas he suffered, and now we get to see Denz move through to become the best version of himself. The real version and not the one with only his family's expectations.

If you're looking for a funny, good hearted romance with some growth in it for the characters then run and add this one to your pre-orders. It will not disappoint!

Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the advance reader copy of I Think They Love You by Julian Winters!

When Denz's father announces his retirement, the company’s next CEO is to be determined. Denz lies about being in a serious relationship to show his family that he is capable of commitment. Denz’s ex, Braylon, ends up playing the role of fake boyfriend (in the right place at the right time 😊). The arrangement will help Denz as well as Braylon who is looking to use Denz’s connection to the mayor.

Denz and Braylon are irresistible!! The circumstances that led to Braylon being Denz's fake boyfriend was perfection! I so enjoyed the love Denz has for both rom coms and Marvel. And Braylon. Oh my goodness. You can see why Denz fell for him the first time around and why Denz can’t resist a second chance with him. It’s wonderful to get some lovely flashbacks of these two before they originally broke up. There were so many aspects I loved about this book: the fake dating, the supporting characters, these two giving into feelings, how these two learn each other and how the other has grown, and an ending with a grand gesture to remember!!

If you love a second chances, fake dating romance, this is one to check out in 2025!!

This was a perfect combination of fake dating and second chance romance. I loved both Denz and Braylon. They were flawed, realistic characters that were easy to route for. The story was predictable but not boring and flowed well. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. The only thing I didn't much care for was how British Braylon got in such a short amount of time. A more subtle shift would've been a little more believable for me. Sometimes his Britishness seemed forced. But other than that, I enjoyed the book.

4.5 Stars rounded up

This was a funny, second chance romance, fake dating trope that was light hearted and quick read. Denz is hoping to get to be the next CEO as his dad’s retiring. He is competing against his sister to get the job. In order to prove he’s serious he says he has a boyfriend. He runs into his ex-boyfriend Bray and they make a deal to fake date.

Bray is the one who broke his heart and he has never gotten over. Now, all the feeling he once had for Braylon is flooding to the surface.

I enjoyed the big meddling family, group texts, romcom movie references, and sibling rivalry.

I have never read anything by this author before, but I really enjoyed this book. I will be looking out for this author in the future and will be recommending it. This book is a great addition to any library.

4.2

Unabashedly funny and romantic, I Think They Love You by Julian Winters is a fake dating, exes to lovers, second chance rom-com that I found myself really enjoying. Winters crafts a funny story of family, romance, and societal expectations that help set the scene. I will admit that it wasn't anything I haven't read before; it was the writing in this book that particularly helped it stand out. Without the witty characters and smart writing, I have a hard time believing that this book would stand out from a crowd. Perhaps something could have been done to make the story more unique? I'd give this one a 4.2 out of 5 stars.