While they don't work for the same company, the professional stakes of their fake relationship drive much of the plot. Reader Reception and Style
The story centers on , a high-powered CEO who has tirelessly rebuilt his father's media empire. Despite his professional success, his single status has become a liability with a traditionalist businessman he needs to impress for a critical deal. To bridge this gap, Barrett tells a "little white lie" about being in a committed relationship. Reluctantly Yours by Erin Hawkins
, a fiery and petite editorial assistant at the prestigious St. Clair Press, finds herself in a precarious position when Barrett catches her using his family's penthouse without permission. Leveraging this, Barrett blackmails her into acting as his fake girlfriend for business events. What starts as a cold, transactional arrangement quickly complicates as Barrett finds himself intensely attracted to Chloe, and Chloe discovers the "heart of gold" hidden beneath his brooding, icy demeanor. Key Tropes and Themes While they don't work for the same company,
by Erin Hawkins is a spicy, billionaire, fake-dating romantic comedy that serves as the first installment in her Unexpectedly in Love series. Published in June 2022, the novel follows the high-friction, high-heat relationship between Barrett and Chloe. Plot Summary To bridge this gap, Barrett tells a "little
Barrett's dry, brooding nature contrasts with Chloe’s "sassy" and spirited personality.