“Now isn’t the time to worry, it’s the time to be proactive.” Faking It by Portia Macintosh

3.5 stars. This was a fun book to read.

Ella’s life has just become complicated - she lost her job and she has not much in her bank account. And out of the blue, her twin Emma calls her and asks for her help...to pretend to be her for a few weeks. What?

Ella is a hoot and her fitting into her sister’s shoes...was a bit of a challenge. Funny how Emma’s kids didn’t notice that their “mom” is someone else already. Makes me wonder if my kids would notice if someone else masqueraded as me.

It’s a nice, light read with a happy ending for all and will look forward to reading this author’s other works.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this arc!

Love, loss, sisterhood and family dynamics drive this small town romance with a twist.

Suspend your disbelief for a few hours and dive into the world of wife and mother Emma who asks her sister Ella to take her place in a small town while she spends time in prison for traffic offences.
Like any fish out of water story, homeless and jobless Ella is not prepared to return to the lovely home where she grew up with her later mother and sister and even less prepared to act out the role of perfect mum and member of the local clique of bored witless wealthy woman who live in her town, who are desperate to feed on any hint of gossip.
What Ella discovers is that Emma had been living a lie. This is no perfect life. Far from it. Otherwise why on earth would Emma want to keep her absence a secret?
The emotional twist at the end of the book is well signalled in the text and the character of Emma, so does not come as a complete surprise.

This book throws you straight into the drama. The engaging opening shows Ella in an extremely vulnerable state – her flat is on fire, and as a result she loses her home and her job. I was immediately engrossed and wishing for some good fortune to come Ella’s way.

The narrative is laced with soft humour throughout. Portia’s lively and humorous description brings the narrative, characters and settings to life. For example, one character is described as: “floating around the room like an over-caffeinated butterfly.” These descriptions are just another of my favourite features of this book.

The far-fetched plot line of Ella acting as her sister for a number of weeks, also develops a humorous, light-hearted stance to this novel. However, Portia delicately touches upon a number of important issues such as: the role of women, society’s expectations of women, the importance of maintaining communication with difficult adolescents and family values.

As is a regular feature of Portia’s books, Ella goes on quite a journey of self-discovery and growth throughout the book. The ending had elements of predictability, and also surprise, but was genuinely completely heart warming.

Another wonderful novel by one of my favourite romantic fiction of all times. I highly recommend this book, and others by this author to fans of Mary Jayne Baker, Lindsey Kelk and Jessica Redland.

Ella Copper’s day is not off to a great start. First her flat is partially burned, and then she gets evicted. Then she gets in trouble with her boss (again) and, well, yes, is fired. And then her car refuses to work as well. Ella is 35 years old and at a crossroad as what to do next. This is when she receives a call from her twin sister Emma. Emma has a huge favour to ask: could Ella, pretty please, step into her shoes and take her place for few weeks, as she doesn’t want other people to know that she’s away. She has her reasons. Those people who shouldn’t know that Ella is Emma are not only her friends but also her kids…
Actually, Ella has nothing to lose, right? Faking being a married woman, with two kids, must be a walk in the park, right?

I loved the idea of this book. The story is exploring „how the other half lives“, this time in the person of a twin sister who did better in life – but really? Is it really always how we see it or are there other things that we have no idea about? Well, Ella is about to learn, and learn does she, being thrown in at the deep end, and I loved to see how she’s coping – or not. How she’s slowly opening her eyes and seeing what it is she misses in her life, but also what Emma is missing, realising the most important points in life. There is really much more depth hidden between the pages than we could think at first glance, but Portia Macintosh brilliantly mixed seriousness with humour, delivering a lovely, uplifting read with some hilarious moments.

The main character was a typical Portia McIntosh’s heroine – cool, strong – headed, independent and who doesn’t give a shit about what others think about her. And I liked her for being like this and jumping into her sister’s shoes even though the relationship between them was not so perfect. The way she tried to find herself as a suddenly wife and mum was hilarious and her interactions with the children were brilliant. As well as with the Yummy Mummy Mafia, oh god, what an apt description it is for this. I think she has never lost her true identity, her true self, and I really admired this in her. Although I wasn’t so sure about Ella at the very beginning, to be very honest. I mean, she was a total mess, right, losing an apartment, job and car in a single day and actually not bothering about this so much. I am not sure what would happen with Ella is Emma hasn’t asked her fort his huge favour. But I also liked how she stayed true to herself. She gave her best in trying to be Emma, for the love of her sister and her family, but there were moments that she couldn’t help acting like herself which only added lots of humour to the story and made Ella even more authentic in my eyes.
Emma’s husband Rich was a nice guy though, till the very end, I really wasn’t sure if he’s not playing somewhere else, and the children were optimally written, the lovely Henry and Millie the teenager. It’s good though that Ella and Emma didn’t have much scenes together because well, it wouldn’t be too easy with those names, I think.

To be honest, I also thought that there will be much more things going wrong during this short arrangement between the sisters and what with some people already knowing about Ella faking Emma – it was a bit dangerous, don’t you think? If I were to pretend to be my sister I think I wouldn’t be able to persevere for so long. Nevertheless, some things went really well and some things went hilariously wrong and there are some truly funny situations.

It was a light – hearted, funny and also thought – provoking read with some hidden messages in it. It’s was fast – paced and engaging, a truly enjoyable read for those snowy days. A story about families, relationships and friendship, about second chances and not forgetting what is really important in life – not holding grudges but creating memories and being honest. A lovely read, truly recommended!

Ella has always felt like the Cinderella, but no fairy godmother in sight! Ella has a identical twin who seems to have the fairytale life, but does she really? Emma has had no contact with her sister and nobody even knows she exists. Then Emma reaches out and needs her help. She wants Ella to step into her life and pretend that she is her and don’t let anyone know to include her own children!

What could possibly go wrong? Oh, plenty! This book is a humorous book that you will not be able to keep from giggling and turning the pages for more!

The author has a flair with a great storyline and the characters are believable. I personally would have liked just a little more interaction between the sisters.

I received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.

I found myself laughing so hard during this at some points!

This Animal Crossing wave is everywhere.

34-year-old Ella has had the Worst Week™. She’s already working a job that doesn’t pay her enough, but salt to the wound, the new employee who she gallantly lets stay on her couch burns her whole apartment down...alongside a restaurant. (The damage a cigarette can cause.)

Being fired and evicted sets a series of events in motion that leads to Ella posing as her twin for a few weeks. The only problem? They live very different lives. Ella’s twin Emma is miles more successful, on paper. She’s got the better job, a husband, and two kids that put Ella in a “less successful” light.

Ella’s not the one in jail for parking infractions though, so there’s that!

Ella steps into Emma’s shoes, and by that, she steps in all of Emma’s shoes. The model housewife, the mom, the one navigating PTA moms and all the while, deal with her own urges and desires on the side.

It was an easy read, and for once, I found myself reading a romance book where I didn’t care at all about the romance - though it was definitely sweet. I was so much more invested in the anxious drama of Ella’s life, where she’s learning that what’s perfect almost never actually is. I was expecting that this wasn’t going to feel real to me but it did. She’s been estranged from her sister for a hot minute too, and this allows her to learn more about Emma’s life (and her own) and there’s an insight in this book that I didn’t expect at all.

I loved Ella getting through to her sister’s kids, Henry and Millie, and I absolutely loved the underlying message of perfection being super overrated. Ella’s assimilating into a stage of life that she’s not familiar with, that is associated with “perfection”, that she, wittingly or unwittingly, compares herself to. But there’s drama, gossip, sharks and amazing quips throughout, complete with a twist that made me cry just a little bit. You know what I’d like to see? A movie adaptation of this. That’s it.

I haven’t read anything by this author but I’m definitely going to be looking them up now! This was a great, light read that stays with you for a while, and it’s got those plot points you won’t even see coming.

[Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing this book to me in exchange for an honest review!]

This is such a delightful little rom-com! I loved Ella's growth throughout the book, she was such a strong, independent, and fun character. There were times there was maybe a bit too much going on- I think a couple of the side characters could have gone, but all in all, I enjoyed the story and it made me smile. There are a few twists I didn't see coming, and they gave me all sorts of warm fuzzies. I would definitely recommend this one!

This book is so good! I devoured it in about 6 hours. The main character Ella reminded me of myself so much - a snarky hot mess express. I was cackling out loud at parts, thinking “Yep, I’d do the same.” While all these silly antics are going on- I just love the way she grows and becomes a better version of herself. Nothing beats a funny, light hearted book to escape into! This was my first book by this author but I am definitely going to go back and read her other works now.

In a time where we all need a giggle this book is the perfect prescription. I loved the storyline and who wouldn't want to imitate their sister and get a chance to see if the grass really is greener in her lifestyle choice.

I laughed throughout this book, it is the sort of story to make you giggle out loud and smile as you read. Ella is a vibrant character who is the polar opposite to her twin sister Emma so as soon as Emma reveals her plan you just know its going to be hilarious.

A great read that I really enjoyed reading, I love it when a book calls to you and I kept picking this back up at every opportunity to see what Ella was going to do or say next.

This is my first book by Portia but will definitely but looking for more !
At first I wasn't sure how the idea of identical twins could switch places in a family would work, but was proved wrong. A few twists you wouldnt expect which worked out well in the end.
A great read

Ella is 34, single, and working at yet another low-paying job. When she attends the welcoming party of a new employee, he ends up missing his train and she allows him to crash on her couch. But the guy smokes a cigarette and throws it into the bin causing a fire that ruins not only her flat but a restaurant below. Now, she’s been evicted and fired for being late to work once again.

Ella has an identical twin sister, Emma, whom she has not heard from in years. The girls’ father died in a car crash shortly before they were born. Their mother struggled to raise them and then became Auntie Angela, a life coach, radio and TV host giving advice on parenting. The girls grew up in a nice house with lots of money. Now, their Mom has died and Emma got the house they grew up in. Since she married early and has two children, she also got her inheritance early. Ella won’t get hers until she turns 35.

Emma has called to say that she has to go away for 6 weeks and needs her to come impersonate her while she’s gone. With nothing else to do and no money, she agrees. Since the sisters have been estranged for so long, Ella is unfamiliar with Emma's family, friends, and lifestyle.

We follow Ella as she enjoys the luxury of a nice home, big car, and gorgeous clothes. She is trying hard to do all of the things Emma does and be her. She meets some handsome guys and gets involved in the school and community.

There’s lots of humor as Ella stumbles along doing her best to be someone she’s not. She finds herself loving her niece and nephew and the people she meets, one of whom comes very special.

I enjoyed most of this book. I loved little Henry and was happy to see how Ella managed to get her teenage niece, destined to go off the rails, back on the right track. Ella seems to find herself and her self-esteem in this book. She is not snarky to people but does her best to get along. The cancer is a huge downer as I am a survivor. In addition, the emphasis on all of the musicals and different characters tended to fly over my head because that’s not of interest to me. All in all, I think readers will really like this book and find all kinds of good things in it.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

There's an ease to Portia MacIntosh's writing that immediately makes you feel like you're in safe hands. This latest release is no exception.

Faking It is the story of twin sisters with vastly different lives. When one has to leave her seemingly perfect world unexpectedly for several weeks, the other steps into her Louboutins, with hilarious and often poignantly heartwarming results.

There really is so much to love about this book. The protagonist, Ella, is relatable and honestly? Just trying her best, having been dealt a huge blow early on in her adult life. There's excellent romantic chemistry and SO many laugh out loud moments that I can't even begin to name them all. That said, the Blackpool trip is a particular highlight for me. It had me in tears laughing. No spoilers but all I will say is 'the prizes'. *winks* Did I mention the chemistry?!

There really are so many funny moments in this book, and so many are relatable. Who hasn't been within a whisker of launching their smart device through the window when it intervenes into a conversation...?

That said, there's also plenty of heart too. Ultimately, it's a keen reminder that everyone is unique and that we should never judge books by their covers; or indeed, on past experiences. The penultimate chapter had me absolutely bawling, and what's that if it's not a sign of a brilliant book?

p.s. I'm totally with you, Henry and Ella. Animal Crossing is also my de-stressor!

Favourite Quote:

If there’s one thing this year has taught me, it’s just how important family is. Whether it’s the family you’re born into or the one you make for yourself, you should always keep your people close.

(Review also uploaded to Amazon UK, but awaiting moderation)

Many thanks for offering me the opportunity to read

This was a very enjoyable read, light hearted and funny, with an unexpected twist at the end. The characters are delightful and there are quite a few laughing out loud moments.
Emma and Ella are identical twins, but lead very different lives. Ella has just managed to lose her home, car and job on the same day, when Emma (the successful twin) calls her and asks her to impersonate her because she needs to go away for a few weeks and can't afford to let other people know.
The storyline is different and peculiar, and it is very catching to follow Ella's character's evolution throughout the book.
This was my first Portia Macintosh's, and I fell in love with her writing!

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Wow I LOVED this book. It was a wonderful, easy read which was hilarious and beautiful. Read in two sittings, I couldn't put it down. I love Portias writing style, this is the second book I've been fortunate to review and cant wait to read more.

The twist at the end with the real reason for Emma's disappearance was wonderfully written, there were so many different elements to this book and I love the relationship between Ella and Emma and reminded me of the relationship I have with my sister. The final sentence was very apt for everything that is going on in the world - "just be happy".

First book I have read from Portia and what a lovely book. Bit of an odd story line but it works initially until people start to guess what is going on. Excellent twist at the end. Will be reading more of her works.

Ella is deemed to be the 'less successful' one in comparison to her twin sister Emma and has always felt inadequate and bitter about how different their lives turned out, with Emma having the perfect job, husband and house. So, Ella gets a shock when she receives a call from Emma asking her to pretend to be her. We follow Ella as she trues to juggle playing the part of her twin sister, juggling kids and gossiping mothers all while trying to be a model housewife.

This book was really heart-warming.

The storyline was so different and when I read the description, I was intrigued from the get-go but I was also curious because I wasn't quite sure how it was going to progress. I was pleasantly surprised though and I liked the fact that in between it being funny and not too serious, it also managed to slip in a lot of morals and advice along the way that can very much be applied to real life and I liked that. It made the story more real, despite the storyline.

I found it quite easy to connect with Ella from the get-go, especially with the way it started and it started off very strong. She was a very likeable character and I'm sure I'm not the only one that thinks so. Some of the other characters also read very well and it made the story as a whole a lot easier to follow along with.

Overall, I enjoyed this one. It was fun, light-hearted, super cosy at times and it threw in a few home truths as well.

So again, why did I rate it 4 stars?

The main reason is because while all of the above is true, I personally know when I've just finished reading a 5-star book (to me anyway) and I didn't get that feeling with this one and that's not because I didn't enjoy it, it's just because it didn't reach me or affect me in the same way some of my other 5 star rated books has.

Despite that, I'm falling in love more and more with Portia MacIntosh's writing and I know after this one, I'll be adding all of her books to my library as quickly as I can.

This is a great rom com novel - just perfect to cheer you up during this dreary January! The premise intrigued me and it made for an enthralling story. The witty humour and sarcasm are brilliant and bad me smiling from start to finish. I think anyone who has a sister can relate to the main character, I definitely did! The author has a very engaging writing style that draws you in from the very first page.

I’ve had this book on my shelf for a little while, and finally got around to starting it yesterday. I have just finished it! It’s one of those books that you ask yourself ‘why didn’t I start this earlier?’. I absolutely loved it.

Ella and Emma are identical twins. Emma needs to go away for a while and asks her twin sister to step into her shoes (mum, wife, school mum, friend, etc) to cover up her absence.

The story that unfolds is slightly predictable but brilliantly entertaining. I’d also like to add that, unlike with many books, the start of the book (before the adopting her twin sisters life bit) was fantastic. Ella is chaotic and this makes a great read.

I found the teenage issues very realistic and just loved the story. I adored Marco and after reading the Henry Cavill likeness reference, I practically swooned over him and his part in the story!!

I’ve read other books by this author and would thoroughly recommend them. Also...hooray for the Cheshire shout-out. It’s not referenced in many books, but it was nice reading about my home county. I’m pretty sure I know what village is being referred to :)

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for my advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review 📚

This book pulled me in right from the start. As the book wore on I was worried that the whole switching roles plot would grow tiresome, but it didn't. I didn't see the twist coming, although I am not sure how I feel about that - should I have seen it? And once it was revealed, was it necessary?

All in all, a good read, and I am looking forward to the next by this author!

This was an easy, fun read. Portia Mackintosh always creates lovable characters and sexy love interests. This was no exception to that rule, and I lapped up this sweet, funny story.
Ella and Emma couldn’t be much more different. Ella lives by the seat of her pants whilst Emma is organised down to the tiniest detail. Asking Ella to stand in for Emma, whilst she’s busy elsewhere, sounds like a recipe for disaster. Emma believes that her sister is capable of following simple instructions, she doesn’t realise that accessing the instructions could be hilarious!
I really enjoyed the unique way that Ella approached the problems that were cast up by this duplicitous pact. On the whole, Ella achieved the seemingly impossible and managed to deceive Emma’s circle of friends. Maybe this was partly down to the insincere nature of those friendships.
Having both lived in the shadow of their mother, it comes as a shock, to Ella, to see how similar her sister’s life is to their mother’s. Can Ella manage to get to the bottom of Emma’s problems, save her reputation, her relationship with her kids and still manage to find some romance of her own?
As I said, this is a sweet and funny story which kept me entertained on a cold, lockdown night. The scenarios were all plausible, and yet, at times, downright hilarious.
It soon became clear, to me, that Ella was not the hapless airhead that she was portrayed to be. Granted, we can all feel like a new woman with a good cut and colour, but there needs to be some pretty good raw materials under that shallow coating.
I really enjoyed this book, and writing this review has brought a nostalgic smile to my face as I remember some of the situations that Ella found herself in. If you enjoy a good, light-hearted rom-com, then this is an ideal candidate for your TBR pile.