Charming Cove, #2
by Linsey Hall
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How to Fake-Date a Vampire by Linsey Hall is a paranormal rom-com and the second book in the Charming Cove series. We alternate first-person points-of-view between our two main characters.
Emma wants nothing more than to become an Official Witch so she can finally have the family she’s desired her whole life after jumping around between foster homes. When the coven announces the apprentice who has the best idea for their Beltane Ball will become Official, she lobbies for hosting at the manor of local vampire duke, Alaric. They strike a deal to fake-date one another so Emma can put on the ball of her dreams and Alaric’s grandmother can finally meet his “significant other.”
This was really cute, like the first book in the series. Though characters from the first book are referenced a few times, you can likely read it as a standalone.
Similar to the first book in the series, The Modern Girl’s Guide to Magic, I really liked the vast majority of the characters here. I especially loved Emma’s skunk familiar, Penelope. The magic system is still cool, especially with the addition of revelation sticks and joy batteries in this installment.
There were a few parts of the book that were pretty weak in my opinion. Firstly, the third-act breakup (miscommunication, one of my least favorite tropes) was very milquetoast and Emma forgave Alaric way too easily. Secondly, the ending in general felt way too rushed. Finally, we didn’t get much world-building here about how vampires work in this universe and I’d love to have learned more about them. We are mostly just shown that they spike their alcoholic drinks with blood, which wasn’t enough detail for me.
If you’re looking for something light and charming, try picking this one up! It’s a cozy fantasy romance that’s a quick and cute read.
Tropes in this book include: grumpy/sunshine, fake dating, found family, forced proximity
CW: light stalking (by paparazzo)
I received a copy of this book to review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
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