What do you think?
Rate this book
Stag Brothers #3
Fragile Illusion
It started with a lie.
A story to clean up my reputation.
I never bargained on falling for the girl.
I don’t really care what my family thinks. I work hard, selling my art for a f*ck-ton of money and yeah, I celebrate with the ladies. But my brothers just won’t ease up.
So I blurt out the first thing that comes to mind. It seems like such a small deception to get my family off my back. Only now…I need to find a fake fiancé.
The red-headed reporter from my art show needs to interview me to keep her job. I figure, we can strike up a deal.
I give her the scoop and she plays the part. We both just need to stick with the rules. What could go wrong?Fragile Illusion is a fake-finance romance with scorching heat, witty banter, and a fierce heroine.
A story to clean up my reputation.
I never bargained on falling for the girl.
I don’t really care what my family thinks. I work hard, selling my art for a f*ck-ton of money and yeah, I celebrate with the ladies. But my brothers just won’t ease up.
So I blurt out the first thing that comes to mind. It seems like such a small deception to get my family off my back. Only now…I need to find a fake fiancé.
The red-headed reporter from my art show needs to interview me to keep her job. I figure, we can strike up a deal.
I give her the scoop and she plays the part. We both just need to stick with the rules. What could go wrong?Fragile Illusion is a fake-finance romance with scorching heat, witty banter, and a fierce heroine.
150 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2018
469 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 4, 2018
This one line pretty much says how it all began: “It started with a lie.� What it doesn’t say is how that lie forged an unlikely bond between reporter Emma Cheswick and playboy artist Thatcher Stag, so as they say, “Let the fun begin!�
Lainey Davis� FRAGILE ILLUSION is that comedic romance that will have readers chuckling one minute and biting their nails the next as the family black sheep finds himself in need of a fiancée and an up and coming reporter finds herself in need of a feature piece to wow her editor!
In a case of “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine,� Emma and Thatcher find themselves up to their ears in make believe, only to find that just maybe, their feelings for each other are becoming more fact than fiction!
Emma has her own secrets that are blown out of the water, leaving Thatcher in self-revelation mode when he finds the feisty and argumentative beauty has him actually feeling something beyond lust, but is he ready to take on her family’s disdain to keep up the charade he perpetuated? Has he finally found someone he wants for more than a one night stand?
A fun read with moments that sizzle as the chemistry between Thatcher and Emma becomes more complicated than a Rubik’s Cube as another Stag Brother takes it on the chin for love.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Lainey Davis!
Series: Stag Brothers - Book 3
Publication Date: September 3, 2018
Publisher: Lainey Davis
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 176 pages
Available from:
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow:
Lainey Davis� FRAGILE ILLUSION is that comedic romance that will have readers chuckling one minute and biting their nails the next as the family black sheep finds himself in need of a fiancée and an up and coming reporter finds herself in need of a feature piece to wow her editor!
In a case of “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine,� Emma and Thatcher find themselves up to their ears in make believe, only to find that just maybe, their feelings for each other are becoming more fact than fiction!
Emma has her own secrets that are blown out of the water, leaving Thatcher in self-revelation mode when he finds the feisty and argumentative beauty has him actually feeling something beyond lust, but is he ready to take on her family’s disdain to keep up the charade he perpetuated? Has he finally found someone he wants for more than a one night stand?
A fun read with moments that sizzle as the chemistry between Thatcher and Emma becomes more complicated than a Rubik’s Cube as another Stag Brother takes it on the chin for love.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Lainey Davis!
Series: Stag Brothers - Book 3
Publication Date: September 3, 2018
Publisher: Lainey Davis
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 176 pages
Available from:
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow:
Want to read
January 15, 2025💝💝FREE on Amazon today (10/5/18)!💝💝
March 23, 2021
(audiobook) There couldn’t be more opposite brothers than Tim and Thatcher Stag. In Tim’s book, a study in control and seriousness, we saw him loosen up. This book is about Thatcher, a real free spirit–he’s an artist–making sense of his life and fixing his priorities. It doesn’t happen without bumps in the road though.
The fake relationship trope was treated without much originality. The arrangement, the building tension between the two characters, the expiration date, you just have to follow the steps. The real interest of this story was elsewhere.
First, family was at the center of it. Thatcher and his brothers don’t have a loving relationship. They’re too different, and Tim and Ty don’t approve of Thatcher’s life choices. In a sense, Emma and her sister have the same kind of tensed relationship. The parents–or the lack of them–also have an important place in this book. It’s the main theme of the story.
I also appreciated how the author treated Emma’s condition, and Emma’s mindset regarding her condition too. She has expectations and a strong independant streak that people–including her family–usually dismiss because she’s sick. It’s at the core of Emma and Thatcher’s relationship because he sees her differently. It also brings some incredibly sexy scenes–this book is much hotter than the first one of the series.
As for the narration, it’s the same narrator as before in the series, and he does an okay job. His female voice isn’t the best, but his sexy voice is good, and he knows how to bring the feelings.
Quickie
- Series: Stag brothers #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #fake relationship #artist #family
- Triggers: talk about alcoholism
- Main couple: Emma Cheswick & Thatcher Stag
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the way epilepsy is treated
- � the female voices didn’t do it for me
The fake relationship trope was treated without much originality. The arrangement, the building tension between the two characters, the expiration date, you just have to follow the steps. The real interest of this story was elsewhere.
First, family was at the center of it. Thatcher and his brothers don’t have a loving relationship. They’re too different, and Tim and Ty don’t approve of Thatcher’s life choices. In a sense, Emma and her sister have the same kind of tensed relationship. The parents–or the lack of them–also have an important place in this book. It’s the main theme of the story.
I also appreciated how the author treated Emma’s condition, and Emma’s mindset regarding her condition too. She has expectations and a strong independant streak that people–including her family–usually dismiss because she’s sick. It’s at the core of Emma and Thatcher’s relationship because he sees her differently. It also brings some incredibly sexy scenes–this book is much hotter than the first one of the series.
As for the narration, it’s the same narrator as before in the series, and he does an okay job. His female voice isn’t the best, but his sexy voice is good, and he knows how to bring the feelings.
Quickie
- Series: Stag brothers #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #fake relationship #artist #family
- Triggers: talk about alcoholism
- Main couple: Emma Cheswick & Thatcher Stag
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the way epilepsy is treated
- � the female voices didn’t do it for me
February 11, 2023
This is book 3 in Lainey Davis� Stag Brothers series. Each book is about a different brother and they’re best enjoyed in order. Books 1-3 are now part of a box set (ebook & audio).
Thatcher has good reasons for eschewing relationships - but doesn’t always go about life in respectful ways. Emma is a reporter sent to do a puff piece on Thatcher Stag’s latest art showing. Thatcher thinks she’s just another groupie and hits on her much to Emma’s dismay.
When Thatcher needs a fake fiancé, he uses Emma’s need for a story to convince her to play the part. As things do� what starts out fake becomes very real. I liked the way Davis portrayed Emma’s health issues. As someone with chronic illness - I could relate to a lot of what Emma goes through when it comes to how people react/treat her when they learn of her condition. I also like that Thatcher really listens to Emma.
A surprise from the Stag brother’s past comes back creating all sorts of chaos. Thatcher really struggles with avoiding letting Emma into his life for real and hurts her quite a bit in the process. I would have liked a little more groveling from him to solidify their HEA, but it was sweet to see them end up together. I also liked the epilogue - cute ending.
Narration:
Enjoyed Nikola Muckajev again. He’s great at narrating the dual POV’s.
Thatcher has good reasons for eschewing relationships - but doesn’t always go about life in respectful ways. Emma is a reporter sent to do a puff piece on Thatcher Stag’s latest art showing. Thatcher thinks she’s just another groupie and hits on her much to Emma’s dismay.
When Thatcher needs a fake fiancé, he uses Emma’s need for a story to convince her to play the part. As things do� what starts out fake becomes very real. I liked the way Davis portrayed Emma’s health issues. As someone with chronic illness - I could relate to a lot of what Emma goes through when it comes to how people react/treat her when they learn of her condition. I also like that Thatcher really listens to Emma.
A surprise from the Stag brother’s past comes back creating all sorts of chaos. Thatcher really struggles with avoiding letting Emma into his life for real and hurts her quite a bit in the process. I would have liked a little more groveling from him to solidify their HEA, but it was sweet to see them end up together. I also liked the epilogue - cute ending.
Narration:
Enjoyed Nikola Muckajev again. He’s great at narrating the dual POV’s.
April 11, 2019
3 stars
It seems I'm in the minority here... well...
I was told that this one was the best of the Stag brother's books and if this one is the best... sighs... okay I did liked both MCs in this book but... like the plot is too... unbelieveable. I'm not buying half the things happening here and I've read fantasy books!!! Some things felt too forced(?) And omg the brothers (the other 2) one is an arsehole and the other one is so into his life for most of the book that is hilarious when they try to make our H feel like HE is the bad one.. so annoying.
My other problem was how the h "dealt" with her sickness. I studied with a girl with epilepsy and NEVER she hide or downplay her situation because it could put her in risk so seeing our h hiding her sickness from the H because whatever stupid reason or pity party was horrible. It took me a while to warm up to her if I'm honest.
Secondary characters were meh. I didn't care for any of them (only petey tbh) book was pretty much average.
It seems I'm in the minority here... well...
I was told that this one was the best of the Stag brother's books and if this one is the best... sighs... okay I did liked both MCs in this book but... like the plot is too... unbelieveable. I'm not buying half the things happening here and I've read fantasy books!!! Some things felt too forced(?) And omg the brothers (the other 2) one is an arsehole and the other one is so into his life for most of the book that is hilarious when they try to make our H feel like HE is the bad one.. so annoying.
My other problem was how the h "dealt" with her sickness. I studied with a girl with epilepsy and NEVER she hide or downplay her situation because it could put her in risk so seeing our h hiding her sickness from the H because whatever stupid reason or pity party was horrible. It took me a while to warm up to her if I'm honest.
Secondary characters were meh. I didn't care for any of them (only petey tbh) book was pretty much average.
January 28, 2021
I’m not reading #4
This is the story of the middle Stag, Thatcher and Emma.
Thatcher is an artist and a womaniser, he gas an exhibition of his work and Emma goes along as a reporter to do a story for the paper. Thatcher not realising who she is, thinks she’s a fan and tries to seduce her. Emma leaves, hoping never to see him again.
I liked #1, #2 was ok but this one was ok.
I didn’t like Thatcher, he just felt sorry for himself and yet he had a great life Emma i just didn’t like and couldn’t buy into the fact she was liked so much by the rest of Thatchers family.
If you have a potential life threatening illness, you would surely make sure that people around you knew. She got on my nerves feeling sorry for herself.
As always, read for yourselves
This is the story of the middle Stag, Thatcher and Emma.
Thatcher is an artist and a womaniser, he gas an exhibition of his work and Emma goes along as a reporter to do a story for the paper. Thatcher not realising who she is, thinks she’s a fan and tries to seduce her. Emma leaves, hoping never to see him again.
I liked #1, #2 was ok but this one was ok.
I didn’t like Thatcher, he just felt sorry for himself and yet he had a great life Emma i just didn’t like and couldn’t buy into the fact she was liked so much by the rest of Thatchers family.
If you have a potential life threatening illness, you would surely make sure that people around you knew. She got on my nerves feeling sorry for herself.
As always, read for yourselves
September 4, 2018
Thatcher Stag is a artist and a world class womaniser he feels his family doesn't respect him at all and they are constantly on his back the only way he may get some peace from them is to get married so he needs a fake fiancee. Emma Cheswick needs a in depth interview with the artist Thatcher Stag after her first interview with her failed to impress her boss his price pretend to be his fiancee for a few weeks it is a price she is willing to pay. Things get complicated when the Thatcher appears a lot more human than she expected and emotions become involved and the chemistry between them is off the chart will they take it further than pretend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2019
This is the third book of the series and like the previous two books I was drawn into the story right away. The plot and characters are so good I didn't want to put the book down.
September 4, 2018
I wanted to like this book so much. I have read the two previous stag brother books so I thought this would end the trilogy perfectly. Boy was I wrong, within the first 15 pages the hero is in bed with a woman he spent the night and morning with but can’t remember her name ughh and then he gets to his nephews bday party and in his mind he is going over his brothers and their wives ( the subjects of the first two books) and basically slams and bad mouths both of his brothers and their wives double ughhh. I think I will take a break from this author for awhile, this has left a bad taste in my mouth and definitely cooled my one click buy for the author.
March 13, 2021
More Stag Brothers Awesomeness! Great🎧📚🎧Listen!
Fragile Illusion
Stag Brothers, Book 3
By: Lainey Davis
Narrated by: Nikola Muckajev
Lainey Davis pens another awesome novel in her “Stag Brothers� series and she saved the best Stag brother, for last, sorry, not sorry, Tim and Ty. Each book in the series features a different brother, the first book is the eldest brother Tim’s story, he is the control freak, the second book is Ty’s story, the hot tempered hockey player and this is Thatcher’s story, the wild card of the family. Lainey Davis makes it so easy to relate to and connect with these characters, each have their own issues and/or insecurities and it is great to watch the grow as a person and get past them. Thatcher is a successful artist, he works with glass and designs pieces that are museum worthy. He is a player and loves playing with the ladies but he winds up hitting on the wrong lady. Emma Cheswick is a reporter for he newspaper, she is trying to advance her career and when she gets her break when asked to do a fluff piece on local artist Thatcher Stag, when she goes to interview him he mistakes her for an eager fan and he hits on her. She submits her article and tells it as it is and her boss is not happy, the Stags have a lot of influence and he does not want to piss any of them off. Thatcher intended to apologize for his behavior but when he over hears that conversation he works it to his advantage and makes a deal with Emma, one that includes her to act as his girlfriend/fiancé. This is a fabulous fake relationship type romance, the chemistry between the two characters is sizzling hot and I loved how it all plays out. Also loved seeing the brothers again and getting caught up with what is going on in their lives. There is never a dull moment in this book the story is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, some angst, heartfelt and emotional moments and a wonderful romance. I thought Thatcher did a great job handling himself and Emma’s family and with his father, loved how the brothers teamed together too. Lainey Davis thank you for another entertaining and enjoyable story!
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Nikola Muckajev is a talented narrator and versatile voice artist. He continues to bring these characters to life, humanizing them giving each their own distinct voice. He does an awesome job portraying the characters, grasping each persona, taking the role making it her own, sounding believable and just as I picture them to sound. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures all the character’s emotions and projects them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen!
Fragile Illusion
Stag Brothers, Book 3
By: Lainey Davis
Narrated by: Nikola Muckajev
Lainey Davis pens another awesome novel in her “Stag Brothers� series and she saved the best Stag brother, for last, sorry, not sorry, Tim and Ty. Each book in the series features a different brother, the first book is the eldest brother Tim’s story, he is the control freak, the second book is Ty’s story, the hot tempered hockey player and this is Thatcher’s story, the wild card of the family. Lainey Davis makes it so easy to relate to and connect with these characters, each have their own issues and/or insecurities and it is great to watch the grow as a person and get past them. Thatcher is a successful artist, he works with glass and designs pieces that are museum worthy. He is a player and loves playing with the ladies but he winds up hitting on the wrong lady. Emma Cheswick is a reporter for he newspaper, she is trying to advance her career and when she gets her break when asked to do a fluff piece on local artist Thatcher Stag, when she goes to interview him he mistakes her for an eager fan and he hits on her. She submits her article and tells it as it is and her boss is not happy, the Stags have a lot of influence and he does not want to piss any of them off. Thatcher intended to apologize for his behavior but when he over hears that conversation he works it to his advantage and makes a deal with Emma, one that includes her to act as his girlfriend/fiancé. This is a fabulous fake relationship type romance, the chemistry between the two characters is sizzling hot and I loved how it all plays out. Also loved seeing the brothers again and getting caught up with what is going on in their lives. There is never a dull moment in this book the story is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, some angst, heartfelt and emotional moments and a wonderful romance. I thought Thatcher did a great job handling himself and Emma’s family and with his father, loved how the brothers teamed together too. Lainey Davis thank you for another entertaining and enjoyable story!
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Nikola Muckajev is a talented narrator and versatile voice artist. He continues to bring these characters to life, humanizing them giving each their own distinct voice. He does an awesome job portraying the characters, grasping each persona, taking the role making it her own, sounding believable and just as I picture them to sound. He sets the perfect tone for the story, captures all the character’s emotions and projects them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen!
March 18, 2021
Their first meeting was a disaster. She went to interview him for the newspaper she worked for, and he thought she was a groupie, so, womanizer that he is, he hit on her. But when her scathing article doesn’t cut it with work, and he finds himself in need of a fake fiancé, they strike up a deal. Of course there’s a physical attraction, but they both do their best to ignore it and stick to their arrangement. But as they get to know each other, things start to change. This was a sweeter story than I expected. Thatcher is a total playboy, living his life day to day, women and his art. Emma is a junior reporter trying to improve her career and not interested in any kind of love life. As they let their guard down around each other and open up their vulnerabilities they can’t fight their attraction anymore. But things are bumpy. Thatcher is still that overconfident, speak his mind type, and then, surprisingly, Emma does something that derails everything. When they find their way back to each other, it works, and it’s very sweet.
There’s plenty of steam, they definitely have chemistry. For the most part, they are the characters of focus, but since this is the third of a series, we’re getting glimpses of the other couples, and the group dynamic/relationship that they have as a family, which is a nice boost to the story. Thatcher’s cockiness, while sometimes a bit stark, actually brings a brilliant and hysterical moment when he meets Emma’s father and he makes a comment about one of his art pieces (no spoilers, but it had me rolling, you’ll know it when you get there). There is a decent amount of lightness in the book as well, which adds to their sweetness, especially when we get to see Thatcher with his nephew Peter. Overall, very engaging and enjoyable.
The narration was well done. It can be tricky when you have a man doing the female voice, but it was good, and overall not distracting or awkward.
There’s plenty of steam, they definitely have chemistry. For the most part, they are the characters of focus, but since this is the third of a series, we’re getting glimpses of the other couples, and the group dynamic/relationship that they have as a family, which is a nice boost to the story. Thatcher’s cockiness, while sometimes a bit stark, actually brings a brilliant and hysterical moment when he meets Emma’s father and he makes a comment about one of his art pieces (no spoilers, but it had me rolling, you’ll know it when you get there). There is a decent amount of lightness in the book as well, which adds to their sweetness, especially when we get to see Thatcher with his nephew Peter. Overall, very engaging and enjoyable.
The narration was well done. It can be tricky when you have a man doing the female voice, but it was good, and overall not distracting or awkward.
February 15, 2022
The last single Stag brother begins a fake relationship with a reporter to improve his reputation.
Thatcher Stag is a brilliant glass artist and lives a hedonistic lifestyle that irritates his family. In a heated moment he announces he has a fiancée to his family, now he just needs to find the girl.
Emma was in the right place at the wrong time. Her job sent her to an art gallery to interview a talented artist, but Thatcher mistakenly thinks she is asking for a private moment for other reasons.
Emma is encouraged by her boss to seek out Thatcher Stag for an interview after abruptly leaving him at the gallery. Thatcher agrees to help her with the interview and two potential job opportunities if she will pose as his fake fiancée. Emma fits in perfectly with the Stag family to include with Thatcher. While Thatcher is fighting his own demons, Emma is trying her best to be his friend through it all. After a short amount of time and one too many arguments, the fake couple is left wondering if their feelings are worth making things real.
I struggled with Thatcher. His poor decision making, immature behaviors, and quick temper didn't line up with his affection for his family, thoughtfulness, and (sometimes) easy going attitude. He was hot and cold and mature and immature all at once. Emma was a well written Protagonist. She had a very interesting back story and made her likeable. Overall, I did enjoy their connection when it wasn't unhealthy. Their lie as a fake relationship was never revealed to their families, which isn't super important but perhaps relevant. Good HEA and epilogue. I missed the bonus epilogue but I think I could find it in the Christmas novella.
Thatcher Stag is a brilliant glass artist and lives a hedonistic lifestyle that irritates his family. In a heated moment he announces he has a fiancée to his family, now he just needs to find the girl.
Emma was in the right place at the wrong time. Her job sent her to an art gallery to interview a talented artist, but Thatcher mistakenly thinks she is asking for a private moment for other reasons.
Emma is encouraged by her boss to seek out Thatcher Stag for an interview after abruptly leaving him at the gallery. Thatcher agrees to help her with the interview and two potential job opportunities if she will pose as his fake fiancée. Emma fits in perfectly with the Stag family to include with Thatcher. While Thatcher is fighting his own demons, Emma is trying her best to be his friend through it all. After a short amount of time and one too many arguments, the fake couple is left wondering if their feelings are worth making things real.
I struggled with Thatcher. His poor decision making, immature behaviors, and quick temper didn't line up with his affection for his family, thoughtfulness, and (sometimes) easy going attitude. He was hot and cold and mature and immature all at once. Emma was a well written Protagonist. She had a very interesting back story and made her likeable. Overall, I did enjoy their connection when it wasn't unhealthy. Their lie as a fake relationship was never revealed to their families, which isn't super important but perhaps relevant. Good HEA and epilogue. I missed the bonus epilogue but I think I could find it in the Christmas novella.
December 7, 2021
Loved the 3rd book in the Stag Brothers series.
This book was all about the middle brother Thatcher who is a well known glass blowing artist. He is known for his hard partying and lots of women. When having dinner with his family as they discuss his little brother Ty's upcoming marriage, he tells his family he is also engaged. They are shocked and tell him to include her next weekend at the next family dinner.
Now he's quickly got to find a woman to play the role. When he meets Emma he is told by his helper that she has come to talk to him about his newest display. Thatcher takes that to mean she's come to hit him up for sex. He pulls her aside and makes his move, and she slaps him and leaves. Later he finds out she works for the local newspaper and came to do a story on him.
He sends her one of his designed glass projects and makes her a deal. If she will play his fiance for a month he will let her do her story on him and he will give her the best story ever.
So much in this 3rd story. You get to see how Thatcher totally changes his perspective on dating and actually let's himself feel something he never has. Emma is a ball buster to all the Stag Brothers but she easily gets the best feels for Thatcher.
Great series. Definitely need to follow Lainey Davis' writing. Enjoy!
This book was all about the middle brother Thatcher who is a well known glass blowing artist. He is known for his hard partying and lots of women. When having dinner with his family as they discuss his little brother Ty's upcoming marriage, he tells his family he is also engaged. They are shocked and tell him to include her next weekend at the next family dinner.
Now he's quickly got to find a woman to play the role. When he meets Emma he is told by his helper that she has come to talk to him about his newest display. Thatcher takes that to mean she's come to hit him up for sex. He pulls her aside and makes his move, and she slaps him and leaves. Later he finds out she works for the local newspaper and came to do a story on him.
He sends her one of his designed glass projects and makes her a deal. If she will play his fiance for a month he will let her do her story on him and he will give her the best story ever.
So much in this 3rd story. You get to see how Thatcher totally changes his perspective on dating and actually let's himself feel something he never has. Emma is a ball buster to all the Stag Brothers but she easily gets the best feels for Thatcher.
Great series. Definitely need to follow Lainey Davis' writing. Enjoy!
February 17, 2025
His Muse by MeemsAngel82
This was my second book by this author and this one certainly wasn't as innocent as that one! This is book three of a series about one group of brothers and the women they will fall for. I was just so curious about this H because he seemed to be an unusual character and boy was I right. Not a kind of male I've ever encountered in my books because of, believe it or not, his hygiene. Achem. This h was a good girl and had a backbone and their story felt realistic.
He wasn't into more than one time with any female, then he blackmailed her...
I loved the concept and again, I love how unique his profession was. Though I couldn't identify with him at first or though most of the book, it shows you how different and real he was. She should have given him some harder times but again, this was a natural progression with no holding back any ugly whether it was between them or their families. She had medical issues that could hold someone back and she was so strong about it! How great and real! I don't do playboys, but I knew he was one going in. I don't like reading about him being with someone else on page, but then we get mentions of them being intimate and where as well. And not cleaning himself then going to see his family?! Oh, my. Um...yeah. Well, don't worry because he DOES grow up and does become an adult. I'm happy they made it!
This was my second book by this author and this one certainly wasn't as innocent as that one! This is book three of a series about one group of brothers and the women they will fall for. I was just so curious about this H because he seemed to be an unusual character and boy was I right. Not a kind of male I've ever encountered in my books because of, believe it or not, his hygiene. Achem. This h was a good girl and had a backbone and their story felt realistic.
He wasn't into more than one time with any female, then he blackmailed her...
I loved the concept and again, I love how unique his profession was. Though I couldn't identify with him at first or though most of the book, it shows you how different and real he was. She should have given him some harder times but again, this was a natural progression with no holding back any ugly whether it was between them or their families. She had medical issues that could hold someone back and she was so strong about it! How great and real! I don't do playboys, but I knew he was one going in. I don't like reading about him being with someone else on page, but then we get mentions of them being intimate and where as well. And not cleaning himself then going to see his family?! Oh, my. Um...yeah. Well, don't worry because he DOES grow up and does become an adult. I'm happy they made it!
February 19, 2025
Review
Loved "Fragile Illusion". The way Emma and Thatcher met. Emma is a reporter. Thatcher is a glass artist. He is having a show at the Andy Warhol Museum.
Emma goes to interview him for her paper. He thinks she is there for a hook-up. She tells him off and talks to the Museum PR team.
Thatcher shows up at the paper to apologize. He overheard Emma getting blessed out by her boss. When she comes out, he takes her outside to his truck. He makes a deal with her. He will open his shop to her and answer all her questions, if she will pretend to be engaged to him for a month.
He had told his family that he was engaged, they didn't believe him. He had invited Emma over so she BB can start interviewing him. He had forgot that he was babysitting his one year old nephew. Emma got there and thought that he was his. When Peter messed his diaper, you have to read that part. It was so very funny, just thinking about makes you laugh.
There was some sex to make the story better.
This also has his brothers, Try and Tim in it
You really need to read this It has her parents, her father is state senator, her mother and sister are all snobs. Thatcher's family is extremely chose.
Just read the story, you won't regret it.
Loved "Fragile Illusion". The way Emma and Thatcher met. Emma is a reporter. Thatcher is a glass artist. He is having a show at the Andy Warhol Museum.
Emma goes to interview him for her paper. He thinks she is there for a hook-up. She tells him off and talks to the Museum PR team.
Thatcher shows up at the paper to apologize. He overheard Emma getting blessed out by her boss. When she comes out, he takes her outside to his truck. He makes a deal with her. He will open his shop to her and answer all her questions, if she will pretend to be engaged to him for a month.
He had told his family that he was engaged, they didn't believe him. He had invited Emma over so she BB can start interviewing him. He had forgot that he was babysitting his one year old nephew. Emma got there and thought that he was his. When Peter messed his diaper, you have to read that part. It was so very funny, just thinking about makes you laugh.
There was some sex to make the story better.
This also has his brothers, Try and Tim in it
You really need to read this It has her parents, her father is state senator, her mother and sister are all snobs. Thatcher's family is extremely chose.
Just read the story, you won't regret it.
September 5, 2018
Thatcher Stag needs a fake fiancée to keep his family off his back and Emma Cheswick needs an in depth interview of Thatcher. They agree to a fake relationship for a few weeks wherein they each get what they need, then go their separate ways. Of course things don't quite go to plan, and soon they're falling into bed. Can Emma keep her heart intact and get her interview or will Thatcher's previously unseen good heart and charming ways be too much for her?
I thought this was a good story. I didn't quite believe in their declarations of love when they finally made them, as I didn't really think they were there yet, but I could see their relationship heading there at some point. I also didn't really like Thatcher, as he came across as a serious douche for most of it. But aside from those two things, I liked Fragile Illusion. Emma and Thatcher's family are all interesting characters, and the chemistry she shares with Thatcher is sexy. The Stag family was interesting enough to make me look forward to reading their previous two stories, here's hoping they're as good as this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I thought this was a good story. I didn't quite believe in their declarations of love when they finally made them, as I didn't really think they were there yet, but I could see their relationship heading there at some point. I also didn't really like Thatcher, as he came across as a serious douche for most of it. But aside from those two things, I liked Fragile Illusion. Emma and Thatcher's family are all interesting characters, and the chemistry she shares with Thatcher is sexy. The Stag family was interesting enough to make me look forward to reading their previous two stories, here's hoping they're as good as this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 7, 2018
First book by this author I’ve read. It was a really good read, kept me interested and even to the point of wanting to keep going, just couldn’t seem to put it down. Yes it had some sex scenes in it but it was so nice having a really good back story to it that wasn’t just about the sex. Two very different characters who each have their struggles, who come together initially to help each other out, but end up falling in love. They experience highs and lows and how they come through it is interesting. She wants someone who will treat her “normally� instead of differently because of her epilepsy, which she hasn’t told him about so when she has a seizure in fron of his family its a big shock to everyone. He deals with it and helps her through and they end up finding strength in each other. I’m definitely going to look for the other books in this series now. Thank you Lainey for a good heartfelt romance with a character that has health issues, to have it normalised and included makes such a big difference.
June 4, 2019
Thatcher is it!
I thought Ty was my favorite but reading Thatcher's story has changed that! Being the middle child, Thatcher felt like he has never lived up to being a Stag what with a successful big brother and a well-known younger brother. He is successful, well-known and sought after in the art world however, his womanizer reputation precedes him. In comes Emma, witty, talented and strong-willed. Sheltered all her life because of her illness, she is out to prove that she can live a life free of fear and the shackles that bind her to her overprotective and overbearing family. Their union started out as a lie which turned into something more when feelings start to unravel. They shaped their relationship into something so fragile that it can shatter at any point in time.
I love how their story unfolded, the art being described so wonderfully incorporated and overcoming an illness that would otherwise be a burden to anybody but made into a strong suit to prove that the person is above it. I am truly in love with this book!!
I thought Ty was my favorite but reading Thatcher's story has changed that! Being the middle child, Thatcher felt like he has never lived up to being a Stag what with a successful big brother and a well-known younger brother. He is successful, well-known and sought after in the art world however, his womanizer reputation precedes him. In comes Emma, witty, talented and strong-willed. Sheltered all her life because of her illness, she is out to prove that she can live a life free of fear and the shackles that bind her to her overprotective and overbearing family. Their union started out as a lie which turned into something more when feelings start to unravel. They shaped their relationship into something so fragile that it can shatter at any point in time.
I love how their story unfolded, the art being described so wonderfully incorporated and overcoming an illness that would otherwise be a burden to anybody but made into a strong suit to prove that the person is above it. I am truly in love with this book!!
September 13, 2021
Fragile Illusion: Stag Brothers Book 3)
Thatcher is a glass artist, always involved with every women in one night stands there is, until he meets Emma. Making a deal with her, for her to become his Fake fiance in exchange for a story about his art work. He makes glass blown sculptures. She also gets stories about other family members of Thatcher's family. Emma's family are rich a they think Thatcher is a bum, not knowing he is a famous artist in his own right. Thatcher introduced Emma to his family that they were to marry. First time meeting his family she gets a seizure from Epilepsy. Thatcher had no idea that Emma had that disease. They all end up in the hospital. She ends up with his whole family considering her health. Thatcher realized that he had deep feelings for Emma. He runs scared that he finally falls deeply in love with Emma after their sexual encounter. This story was simplicity amazing to read. At times it was so funny. ENJOY
Thatcher is a glass artist, always involved with every women in one night stands there is, until he meets Emma. Making a deal with her, for her to become his Fake fiance in exchange for a story about his art work. He makes glass blown sculptures. She also gets stories about other family members of Thatcher's family. Emma's family are rich a they think Thatcher is a bum, not knowing he is a famous artist in his own right. Thatcher introduced Emma to his family that they were to marry. First time meeting his family she gets a seizure from Epilepsy. Thatcher had no idea that Emma had that disease. They all end up in the hospital. She ends up with his whole family considering her health. Thatcher realized that he had deep feelings for Emma. He runs scared that he finally falls deeply in love with Emma after their sexual encounter. This story was simplicity amazing to read. At times it was so funny. ENJOY
September 3, 2018
Thather is an Artist, youngest of 3 brothers. He feels like they don't respect him and that he is a nobody in their eyes. He is a womenizer and does not see that changing he's not the relationship type. His brothers are on his case about that, so he tells him he is engaged, now he has to find a fake fiance.
Emma is a reporter assigned to do a story on Thatcher, the meeting goes wrong when he hits on her. The story she writes doesn't make her boss happy and he tells her to talk to him again and rewrite it. He over hears this and tell her he will give a good story and 1-2 more on his family if she will be his fake fiancé.
Read as they play out this roller coaster ride. It is funny, sweet, heart wrenching and life at its normal twists and turns.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Emma is a reporter assigned to do a story on Thatcher, the meeting goes wrong when he hits on her. The story she writes doesn't make her boss happy and he tells her to talk to him again and rewrite it. He over hears this and tell her he will give a good story and 1-2 more on his family if she will be his fake fiancé.
Read as they play out this roller coaster ride. It is funny, sweet, heart wrenching and life at its normal twists and turns.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2023
I really enjoyed Emma and Thatcher's love story.
Thatcher and his brothers have a lot of familial hurt in their backgrounds and it was nice to see that start to get worked out in this story. Thatcher doesn't really do relationships until he met Emma but, their fake engagement, of course, starts to feel more and more real throughout the story. Emma has epilepsy and her own past pain with her family. Thatcher doesn't treat her like the glass that he blows for a a living but rather treats her like a whole and strong person. Emma shows him that even when they are fighting that she isn't going anywhere and that she will show up for him.
This book has:
-dual POV
-low angst (in my opinion)
- some steamy bits....there is an incident with an ice cube or two....sheeesh
- a lovely HEA (including the wedding of Ty and Juniper, my personal fav Stag couple)
Loved it!!
Thatcher and his brothers have a lot of familial hurt in their backgrounds and it was nice to see that start to get worked out in this story. Thatcher doesn't really do relationships until he met Emma but, their fake engagement, of course, starts to feel more and more real throughout the story. Emma has epilepsy and her own past pain with her family. Thatcher doesn't treat her like the glass that he blows for a a living but rather treats her like a whole and strong person. Emma shows him that even when they are fighting that she isn't going anywhere and that she will show up for him.
This book has:
-dual POV
-low angst (in my opinion)
- some steamy bits....there is an incident with an ice cube or two....sheeesh
- a lovely HEA (including the wedding of Ty and Juniper, my personal fav Stag couple)
Loved it!!
November 16, 2023
I liked that even though Thatcher was a "smarmy" ladies man, that none of his usual tricks worked on Emma. I liked that she put him in his place and he had to clean up his act to impress her. I wasn't entirely sure Thatcher was going to be likable, but I'd give the story 4.5 stars. If you like fake dating and bad boy artists with a soft spot for family, check out Fragile Illusion.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Nikola Muckajev. I prefer when dual points of view are narrated by two narrators, but he did a great job making it very obvious which point of view he was narrating at any given time. I thought he did well with both male and female voices.
I received a copy of the audiobook at my request, and the opinions here are my own.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Nikola Muckajev. I prefer when dual points of view are narrated by two narrators, but he did a great job making it very obvious which point of view he was narrating at any given time. I thought he did well with both male and female voices.
I received a copy of the audiobook at my request, and the opinions here are my own.
December 11, 2022
Good
This another good book. I do like Thatcher but I think he still needed to grow up some. Emma sure has her hands full with this one. I was so proud that Thatcher took good care of Emma after her seizure. I am not sure I could have forgiven Ted though. That might make me a hard person but I don't care he shouldn't have left his 3 boys. They turned out just fine without him. I am also glad that Emma separated from her family. Their lives are nothing but lies and they are snobs. I am also glad that Thatcher didn't do anything else with Tiffany she is trouble. Thank you I really enjoyed this story.
This another good book. I do like Thatcher but I think he still needed to grow up some. Emma sure has her hands full with this one. I was so proud that Thatcher took good care of Emma after her seizure. I am not sure I could have forgiven Ted though. That might make me a hard person but I don't care he shouldn't have left his 3 boys. They turned out just fine without him. I am also glad that Emma separated from her family. Their lives are nothing but lies and they are snobs. I am also glad that Thatcher didn't do anything else with Tiffany she is trouble. Thank you I really enjoyed this story.
July 16, 2023
Fragile Illusion is another good romance from Lainey Davis, number three in The Stag Brothers series. Thatcher is the artist of the three, rebellious and a hit it and quit it kind of guy. Emma is a journalist who Thatcher treats badly, basically sexually harassing her when he mistakes her for a hook up instead of an interviewer. Due to various plot reasons after he apologizes to her, they end up in a fake relationship, which eventually drops the fake part of the agreement. It is fun and sexy but also has some more serious themes dealing with family and the failures of parents. I enjoyed it and am continuing the series.
September 6, 2018
An Exceptional Read! This story will keep you on the edge of your seat with its humour, witty banter, and hotness! The story moves along at a brisk pace full of intense family drama. Exciting story-line with some ups and downs and a relationship that started out fake turned out to be the real thing. Amazing characters � very compatible � off the charts chemistry � intense, potent, and hot sex scenes. This is a really enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2020
Love, love, love
The characters are real and on point. Flawed. I love what a fighter Emma was. How she knew where her lines were and what she wanted. I loved how uncertain thatcher was, how passionate and angry and grieving. I love how they finally get to deal with their mother's death and fathers abandonment. And how it isn't miraculously perfect or made right by some over the top and unbelievable grand scheme. I love this book. I love thatcher and Emma. I need more!!
The characters are real and on point. Flawed. I love what a fighter Emma was. How she knew where her lines were and what she wanted. I loved how uncertain thatcher was, how passionate and angry and grieving. I love how they finally get to deal with their mother's death and fathers abandonment. And how it isn't miraculously perfect or made right by some over the top and unbelievable grand scheme. I love this book. I love thatcher and Emma. I need more!!
May 13, 2021
Best of the series
Great book. I love the very believable characters (flaws and all).
Thatcher is the middle child, misunderstood tattooed rebel who isn't taken seriously. He is a talented glass artist and a terrible womaniser.
Emma is a hungry journalist wanting to be taken seriously and desperate to be given an opportunity to write real stories.
Thrown together they build a fragile relationship based on a lie.
Love the character development, very well told story with lots of chemistry as we would expect from this author.
Great book. I love the very believable characters (flaws and all).
Thatcher is the middle child, misunderstood tattooed rebel who isn't taken seriously. He is a talented glass artist and a terrible womaniser.
Emma is a hungry journalist wanting to be taken seriously and desperate to be given an opportunity to write real stories.
Thrown together they build a fragile relationship based on a lie.
Love the character development, very well told story with lots of chemistry as we would expect from this author.
May 11, 2024
Stag Brothers are beautiful stories you won’t be disappointed. Ty and Junipers story is my favorite then Thatcher and Emma’s, followed by Tim and Alice’s story. So, Thatcher is the last of the three brothers to have a meaningful relationship. At a family gathering, Thatcher announces he has a fiancé, which is not true? Now he has to find a willing fake fiancé. Find out how Emma and Thatcher strike a deal? How they end up falling for each other! And dad, Ted Stag finally makes an appearance? Find out what happens�
September 4, 2018
This is the third book in the Stag brothers series and if you have not started reading them you need to do yourself a favour and start. This is really good series and this one is about the Thatcher who after being late for his nephews party. He come out with the reason of his fiancé but now he needs one and really fast.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 3, 2022
Will their deception hold up? She needs an interview to keep her job and he needs a fake fiancé. When they embark on this journey neither one thought that it would lead to something beyond the agreement they had. But when lines blur will Thatcher and Emma be able to continue with their agreement or will the cracks that Thatcher shows Emma have her heart softening?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.