Just for keeps By Lauren Blakely

Synopsis:

Ever hear the story about the dating coach who got dumped on the hockey arena’s jumbotron?
Everyone did. But I lived it. Including the moment when the team’s broody, tattooed winger Lake Axelrod swooped in on skates to rescue me from public humiliation.
Even more surprising? When the famously grumpy (and ridiculously sexy) hockey star insists on being my fake boyfriend for my sister’s high-profile wedding.
It’s the perfect sweet revenge plan since my ex is the best man. Bonus – I might even salvage my professional reputation.

We need rules, though.

1. To pull this off, everyone from his teammates to my boss has to believe we’re a real couple.

2. That means swoony touches and knee-weakening kisses are required.

3. When it ends, we walk away.

But the intensity in Lake’s eyes after every post-game kiss makes me wonder if he’s pretending. With each whispered secret, the line between fake and real bends. Until it shatters one night in a hotel room.

Soon, he isn’t just playing the protective boyfriend—he’s the only one who truly sees me. If I’m not careful, I’m going to break the most important rule of all: don’t fall for your fake date.

This is Lake and Remy's romance. Tropes include: grumpy/sunshine hockey romance, fake dating, workplace romance, best friend's brother, obsessed hero




Review:

Remy is a dating coach who creates romance for a living. Yet, beneath her polished surface lies a person who is deeply afraid of failure and rejection. After experiencing public humiliation from a disastrous proposal, it was painful to watch her slowly break down emotionally while still trying to keep up appearances.

Lake is the brooding hockey player who seems guarded and emotionally distant at first. However, he carries unresolved grief and guilt that influence every interaction he has.

I loved how naturally their relationship developed. The chemistry between Remy and Lake felt real. Their banter was hilarious. The rules of fake dating, planned romantic moments, and growing emotional closeness all combined so smoothly that the “fake” aspect faded away.

This story wasn't just about falling in love. It was about learning to stop pretending for others and finally allowing yourself to be seen.

4 ⭐