Not My Fault by Shannon O’Connor: Book Review

Not My Fault by Shannon O’Connor is a sapphic romance, about authenticity, vulnerability, and finding someone who sees you for who you truly are.

Synopsis: Not My Fault

A sizzling sapphic fake-dating romance with rockstar glamour, tattoo-parlor heat, and just the right amount of chaos.

Emily—better known to her fans as LULY—has a voice that can fill stadiums and a reputation her manager says needs “softening” if she wants bigger gigs.

Reluctantly, she agrees to find a “stable” girlfriend for the sake of her image. Trouble is, she has zero time for a real relationship, until a run-in (and a viral photo) with Gus, the gorgeous tattoo artist behind her latest ink, sparks a scheme.

For Gus, love is…complicated.

But when Emily proposes a fake-dating arrangement, she can’t help but see the upside—especially if it makes a certain someone jealous. The plan is simple: pose for the press, feed the rumours, and definitely not fall for each other.

But between red-carpet kisses, late-night confessions, and sparks that feel way too real, “fake” starts looking a lot like forever.

Packed with music-scene energy, flirty banter, and delicious slow-burn tension, Not My Fault is perfect for fans of sapphic romance, celebrity drama, and heat that turns up with every chapter.

Review: Not My Fault

Shannon O’Connor’s Not My Fault is a sapphic slow-burn romance that takes the beloved fake dating trope and makes it feel fresh, believable, and emotionally authentic.

At its heart, it’s the story of Emily—known on stage as Lucy—a rising pop star whose image needs a little “softening” for business reasons, and Gus, a non-binary tattoo artist who agrees to play the part of her partner for their own personal motives.

Where some fake dating romances feel flimsy in setup or drop the pretence as soon as possible, O’Connor ensures that the arrangement remains central to the story.

Both characters have clear, compelling reasons for agreeing to the plan, and the gradual shift from staged affection to real emotional connection is handled with subtlety and care.

Despite its relatively short length at 202 pages, the romance manages to achieve a slow-burn quality. Emily and Gus’s relationship develops naturally, through moments of shared vulnerability and genuine understanding.

By the time love is confessed, it feels inevitable, in the best way possible, because the groundwork has been so thoughtfully laid.

One of the standout elements of this novel is O’Connor’s handling of representation. As someone outside the LGBTQ+ community, she approaches Gus’s non-binary identity with sensitivity and authenticity.

Rather than turning gender identity into a “lesson” for the reader, she weaves it seamlessly into Gus’s character, showing how it shapes their everyday experiences in ways that feel lived-in and organic. This makes the representation not only respectful but also integral to who Gus is beyond their role in the romance.

Of course, this is still a romance first and foremost in this O’Connor delivers on all the tension, tenderness, and excitement readers expect from the genre.

From playful banter to intimate moments, Emily and Gus’s chemistry is undeniable, making this a story that will leave readers smiling long after the final page.

Themes and Tone

Not My Fault is about authenticity, vulnerability, and finding someone who sees you for who you truly are. It explores how love can grow in unexpected circumstances, and how the performance of a relationship can slowly transform into something real and life-changing.

It’s light in tone but rich in emotional beats, making it a perfect balance between feel-good romance and thoughtful representation.

Who Should Read It

Fans of fake dating romances who want the trope handled with care and purpose will love this book. It’s ideal for readers of Casey McQuiston, Alison Cochrun, or Melissa Brayden, and for those looking for a sapphic romance that blends sweetness, slow-burn tension, and genuine emotional payoff.

Conclusion

With its heartfelt romance, natural representation, and well-paced slow burn, Not My Fault by Shannon O’Connor proves that even a familiar trope can feel new when handled with intention. Charming, romantic, and deeply satisfying, it’s a must-read for fans of queer romance looking for both heart and heat.

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Mark.