Review: The Fake Out by Stephanie Archer

This book is fun, flirty, and full of banter—the kind where you’re internally smiling like a loser because the chemistry just works.

Rory Miller?? We love him.
Cocky, yes—but not in an unbearable way. More like charming, slightly chaotic, and actually kind (which, honestly, shouldn’t be rare… but here we are).

When he asked Hazel if she wanted an autograph after scoring and she was not impressed? Elite behaviour. No notes.

Hazel was also such a strong FMC. Her insecurities, quirks, and growth felt really genuine, and I loved the body positivity and inclusivity woven into the story—it felt natural and real, not forced.

Rory being completely gone for her? Obsessed. A man who hypes his girl up and means it will always win.

Now… is it perfect? No.

Some of the spice had me like… excuse moi??
A few scenes were definitely a bit out of pocket, and I did have questions (again—don’t need answers).

And the timeline toward the end? Things moved fast. Like, “blink and we’re here now” fast.

A little corny in places too—but honestly? It’s a romcom. That’s part of the charm.

Did I have an absolute blast reading it? Yes.

It’s bingeable, it’s funny, it has heart, and it gave me exactly what I wanted:
- good banter
- strong character connection
- emotional moments
- and just really good vibes

I’m absolutely a Stephanie Archer fan!