Christmas Fling by Lindsey Kelk book review

Laura Pearce thinks she’s scored a bargain on a new flat—until she opens the door and finds her landlord, Callum McClay, straight out of the shower. Things get way worse (and weirder) when Laura makes a spontaneous decision to go home with Callum and pose as his girlfriend. But she can't go as Laura, she has to go along as Callum's made up girlfriend Caroline. She has to pretend to be a vegan Swedish masseuse who doesn't drink and tends to be rude. Cue snow, cozy trains, hostile relatives, her friends turning up as fake family members, and Callum’s ex making things awkward. Between the banter, embarrassing mishaps and a growing attraction, Laura and Callum start to feel more than just actors in a temporary charade. Told from Laura’s funny, sharp voice, this romcom mixes holiday fun and genuine heart—perfect for anyone who likes messy setups that lead to surprisingly real feelings. 

 If you live for fake-dating tropes, warm holiday vibes and characters who trade snappy one-liners like it’s a sport, this one’s right up your alley. The Scottish Highlands setting gives everything that extra cozy, cinematic feel—snowy trains, a grand family house, and those small traditions that make Christmas novels so addictive. Laura is smart, funny and refreshingly competent (neurosurgeon heroine who can roast you and save a life—yes please), and Callum is charming in a quietly awkward, utterly swoony way. He wants to be a pastry chef, but his parents can't accept that. Their chemistry is deliciously slow-burn: lots of near-misses, lingering looks, and those tiny, intimate moments that make you root for them hard. But sit tight for the spice.  You won't be disappointed. The supporting cast amps up both the laughs and the feels. There’s also a bit of realness in the story: sexism in STEM, family expectations, and the awkwardness of pretending to be someone else. Overall, it’s the kind of romcom that’ll have you laughing out loud, sighing at the sweet bits, and closing the book with a smile. A perfect read for the Christmas season.  I loved it!