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The (Fake) Dating Game

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What to expect

'Game show antics, idiots in love, and a healthy dose of steam…this book is everything I want in a romance novel!'

–Alison Cochrun, author of The Charm Offensive

Ready. Set. Faux.

Things are not going well for Holden James. His chance to audition for his favourite game show, Madcap Market, should have been great – a tribute to his mum, who died six years ago. Instead, he’s destroying the minibar in a grim hotel room…recently dumped and sliding into misery.

But at least he has room service. It even comes with a sexy (smart-ass) concierge who arrives with pizza, Monopoly, and rather distracting forearms.

All Holden knows about Leo Min is that he’s beautiful, unexpectedly sympathetic, and the chemistry between them is off the charts. Maybe it’s even enough to convince the show’s casting directors that they’re a real couple. And if they can win the competition and the huge cash prize, all of Holden’s problems – his broken heart, buried grief, and complete lack of money and direction – will be solved.

Of course, nothing ever works out as planned. And love is an entirely different game…

***

Perfect for fans of:

Male-male romance ❤️

Fake dating 🤫

Spice 🌶️

***

Praise for Timothy Janovsky:

'Janovsky has a real flair for delivering sensually descriptive love scenes with steam to spare and a gift for crafting characters with whom readers can readily connect.' Booklist

'A playful yet heartfelt romp through grief and new love… fun, fast-paced, and full of feeling' – Publisher's Weekly

'Fans of the fake-dating trope and game shows will find a lot to like here.' – Library Journal

'Timothy Janovsky’s breezy “fake dating” rom-com is ultimately rather sweet. Granted, there’s an episode involving FaceTime and a cucumber, but still.' – The Times

Critics Review

  • “Janovsky (New Adult, 2023) is an inspired choice to help Harlequin launch their new Afterglow imprint since he has a real flair for delivering sensually descriptive love scenes with steam to spare and a gift for crafting characters with whom readers can readily connect. Pair this with a fun game show setting (think Supermarket Sweep) and a story line that is both humorous and thoughtful in its exploration of the grieving process, and readers are the real winners!” Booklist

    ‘The first book coming out from the imprint is The (Fake) Dating Game by Timothy Janovsky. This author is known for his m/m romances. His 2024 with Afterglow Books is about Holden and Leo who have undeniable chemistry, so much so that they agree to fake date. The only caveat is that they’re auditioning for a game show, Madcap Market. Honestly, this one sounds like so much fun and as someone who loves games shows, I’m completely on board.‘ – Culturess

    ‘A playful yet heartfelt romp through grief and new love… fun, fast-paced, and full of feeling‘ – Publisher’s Weekly

    ‘Fans of the fake-dating trope and game shows will find a lot to like here.‘ – Library Journal

    ‘Timothy Janovsky’s breezy “fake dating” rom-com is ultimately rather sweet. Granted, there’s an episode involving FaceTime and a cucumber, but still. Holden grapples with grief for his mum, Leo has issues with an absent dad — together they help each other navigate life’s bumps even while looking for every opportunity to grind.’ – The Times

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