Exploring Hoax and Kisses by Elodie Colliard A Journey Through Pine Falls
- Mikayla Young
- 5 hours ago
- 7 min read
When a new book captures the charm of a small town and the complexities of its characters, it invites readers to step into a world that feels both fresh and familiar. Hoax and Kisses by Elodie Colliard, the first book in the When in Pine Falls series, does exactly that. This novel blends humor, romance, and mystery, all set against the backdrop of the quaint town of Pine Falls. For readers who enjoy stories with heart, wit, and a touch of intrigue, this book offers an engaging experience.
Book Information
Title: Hoax and Kisses
Author: Elodie Colliard
Series: When in Pine Falls (Book 1)
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Slight Hint of Mystery
Age Category: Adult, 18+
Publisher: Self-published
Publication Date: August 26, 2025
Format: Available in eBook and paperback
Format Type: Novel
Format Read in: Kindle ebook
Tropes/Elements: Found Family, Small Town, Fake Dating
Representation: Anxiety, Autism
Reading Challenges: Kindle TBR, Read Around the World - Canada - Author and Setting
Book Synopsis
In a quaint town where secrets linger and dreams collide, Matt Becker and Zoey Delacroix find love in the least expected way. Matt, a dedicated flower shop owner, is overwhelmed with financial pressures while caring for his sister. Zoey, destined to inherit a hotel empire, must prove herself by succeeding where her father failed. Their paths cross when a town vote derails Zoey's plans, leading Matt to suggest a fake relationship to restore her reputation in exchange for a business opportunity. As their staged romance unfolds, they uncover hidden depths within each other, challenging their preconceived futures. In this heartwarming tale of self-discovery, Matt and Zoey must decide if they have the courage to embrace a future together, capturing the essence of love that surprises and endures.
My Rating and Review
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5 (3.5 Stars)
The characters in this novel are exceptionally well-developed, showcasing a depth that makes them feel realistic and relatable, while also infusing a delightful sense of humor throughout the narrative. Matt, the male protagonist, stands out as a commendable character who embodies various admirable traits. He is not only relatable but also grounded in realism, providing a humorous perspective on life's challenges. His unwavering loyalty and support for those he cares about, coupled with his hardworking nature, paint him as a quintessential family man. Readers can easily connect with his journey, as he navigates the complexities of relationships and personal aspirations with a sense of authenticity that resonates deeply. On the other hand, Zoey, the female lead, is portrayed as a character with flaws that make her all the more relatable. Her journey is marked by moments of vulnerability, particularly as she grapples with anxiety and the pressures of trying to secure land for her father's business. Zoey's compassion and open-mindedness shine through her actions, making her a character that many readers can empathize with. Her struggles and triumphs encapsulate the essence of what it means to be human, facing obstacles while striving for personal growth and familial loyalty. The side characters in this story truly steal the spotlight, bringing a vibrant energy that enhances the overall narrative. Their humor, realism, and the connections they forge with one another add layers of depth to the story. Each side character contributes to the sense of community that is palpable throughout the book, showcasing their hardworking natures and the love they harbor for their town and its residents. This sense of camaraderie enriches the reading experience, making the town feel alive and welcoming. The setting of Pine Falls is portrayed beautifully, evoking cozy, close-knit small-town vibes that perfectly align with the narrative's tone. The author's descriptive writing style allows readers to vividly envision both the characters and the charming town of Pine Falls, immersing them in its warm atmosphere. While the writing is predominantly realistic and humorous, there are moments where it shifts to a more serious tone, effectively conveying the weight of certain situations. However, there are instances where the writing can feel repetitive, which slightly detracts from the overall flow of the story. The plot itself is engaging and well-crafted, filled with entertaining twists, heartfelt moments, and even some steamy encounters that keep readers invested. Yet, there are certain plot points that feel underdeveloped or lack resolution. For instance, the consequences faced by Zoey's father at the end of the novel are hinted at but not fully explored, leaving readers wanting more clarity. Similarly, the transformation of Matt's mother and her evolving relationship with her autistic daughter, Daphne, is an important subplot that could have benefited from further development. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of valuable life lessons, such as the importance of accepting one another's flaws and imperfections, standing up for oneself, and prioritizing personal desires over societal expectations. Themes of friendship, honesty, communication, and understanding permeate the narrative, offering readers insights that resonate beyond the pages. The romance between Zoey and Matt is crafted with care, showcasing their fun and caring dynamic. However, it occasionally feels rushed, especially given the three-week timeline that frames their relationship. This hurried pace sometimes hinders the deeper development of their romance, making it challenging for readers to fully grasp the gravity of their connection. A notable aspect that detracted from my overall enjoyment was the sense that Zoey and Matt struggled to engage in serious conversations without the interruption of steamy moments, which could have allowed for more profound emotional exchanges. "Hoax and Kisses" by Elodie Colliard is a heartfelt small-town romance that artfully balances cozy moments with steamy encounters. It is filled with themes of found family, a strong sense of community, and poignant life lessons that resonate deeply. This novel comes highly recommended for those seeking a romance that thoughtfully addresses topics such as autism and anxiety representation, the significance of found family, and the journey of self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of a small town that feels like a second home while reading.
Discussion Questions and Activities
Before Reading
Cover Analysis: Examine the book cover. What do you think the title "Hoax and Kisses" suggests about the story? What themes or emotions do you anticipate?
Genre Exploration: Discuss the characteristics of contemporary romance and mystery genres. What elements do you expect to find in this book based on its genre?
Trope Discussion: Research the "fake dating" trope. What examples can you find in other books or media? How do you think this trope will be utilized in the story?
During Reading
Character Journals: Keep a journal for Matt and Zoey. Write down your thoughts on their development, challenges, and interactions as you read.
Theme Tracking: Identify and note instances of key themes such as anxiety, family dynamics, and self-discovery as they arise in the narrative. How do these themes evolve?
Quote Collection: Highlight quotes that resonate with you or reveal important character traits. Discuss their significance in small groups.
Predictive Analysis: At the end of each chapter, make predictions about the plot and character outcomes. How accurate are your predictions as the story progresses?
After Reading
Character Reflection: Choose a character and write a reflective piece on their journey. How did they change throughout the story, and what lessons did they learn?
Thematic Discussion: Host a discussion group focusing on the themes of anxiety and autism representation. How effectively were these themes portrayed, and what impact did they have on your reading experience?
Ending Analysis: Reflect on the book's conclusion. Were you satisfied with how the plot points were resolved? What would you have liked to see explored further?
Creative Extension: Create an alternate ending or an epilogue for the story. How would you envision the characters' lives continuing after the events of the book?
Look Ahead - Book 2: What plot developments or character arcs would you like to explore in the next installment of the When in Pine Falls series? These could include tropes, elements, or stories involving side characters from book 1, like Daphne.
About the Author
Elodie Colliard is a talented romance author with dual Canadian and French heritage, currently residing in Montreal. She shares her home with two affectionate cats and a partner who embodies the romance she so passionately writes about.
From a young age, Elodie has been an avid reader and dreamer, captivated by the beauty of love stories. As a true Cancer, she embraces her emotional depth, which profoundly influences her writing. Elodie's fascination with the complexities of love drives her to explore the myriad ways people connect and fall for one another.
In addition to her literary pursuits, Elodie balances a full-time career in politics. When she’s not engrossed in a book or crafting her next heartfelt narrative, she enjoys crocheting, spending quality time with her cats, and creating empowering love stories that resonate with readers. Elodie is the author of the contemporary romance series "It's Always Been You" and "When in Pines Falls," where she brings to life the enchanting tales of love and connection that inspire her readers to dream.
Where to Buy the Book
Local Bookstores: Support your local shops by requesting a copy.
Local Libraries: Support your local libraries by requesting or borrowing a copy.
Conclusion
Hoax and Kisses by Elodie Colliard is a delightful introduction to the When in Pine Falls series, offering readers a captivating blend of romance, humor, and a touch of mystery. Through the well-crafted characters of Matt and Zoey, the novel explores important themes such as self-acceptance, the significance of community, and the complexities of love. While there are areas for deeper exploration, the overall narrative leaves readers with a sense of warmth and connection, making it a worthwhile read for fans of contemporary romance. As we anticipate the next installment in this charming series, Hoax and Kisses stands out as a heartfelt story that resonates with anyone who appreciates the beauty of love and the intricacies of human relationships.
Comments