# Boyfriend Material

By Alexis Hall · London Calling, book 1

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/boyfriend-material-5745dc43/

Luc’s famous parents have helped make his private mistakes tabloid material, and now his charity job is at risk. He needs a respectable boyfriend; Oliver, a reserved barrister, needs a date for a family party. Their agreement to pretend starts getting harder to keep at a distance.

## What makes it funny?

Luc and Oliver have to make their new relationship look convincing in public. Publishers Weekly singles out a formal work lunch as a comic highlight, where the arrangement faces its first test.

### The comedy at work

Luc tells the story through anxious, self-deprecating commentary. Oliver’s strict sense of propriety gives him plenty to react to, especially when they have to perform the part of a comfortable couple.

### Try this if…

Readers who enjoy British social awkwardness, sharp dialogue and fake dating with growing emotional stakes may find a match here. The romance gives trust and self-worth serious attention.

### Good to know

The author’s content guidance includes homophobia, workplace discrimination, emotionally abusive parents, cancer and discussion of disordered eating. This opens London Calling and tells a complete story of its own.

## What to expect

- Genre: Romance
- On the shelf: Contemporary romance · Romantic comedy
- Kind of humor: Banter · Dry wit
- The atmosphere: Warmhearted
- Audience: Adult
- Format: Novel
- Published: 2020

## A few distinguishing details

- A fake boyfriend to repair a tabloid image
- An anxious fundraiser and a very proper barrister

## Sources & further reading

- Review: [Publishers Weekly review](https://www.publishersweekly.com/978-1-72820-614-1)
- Author commentary: [Author](https://quicunquevult.com/book/boyfriend-material)
- Publisher: [Publisher](https://www.sourcebooks.com/9781728206141-boyfriend-material-tp.html)