Picture this: you're at school, your friend dares you to ask out the guy everyone crushes on, but he never dates. That's Emma's dilemma in Faking What's Real, the first book in the Haven Valley High series. Caught in the moment, she proposes a fake date to win the bet and prove they're not just pawns in their friends' games. Shockingly, Kai says yes, breaking his no-dating rule.
One date isn't enough for their scheming friends, who up the ante to a full-blown fake relationship until Halloween. That's two months of holding hands in hallways, sharing laughs at lunch, and staging kisses that feel a little too convincing. Kai's used to keeping his walls up, but Emma's warmth and wit start cracking them. Meanwhile, she's questioning if her crush was ever just a crush.
It's that perfect escape for when you need a story that tugs at your heartstrings but leaves you grinning. Think stolen glances during study hall, awkward double dates that aren't so awkward, and the thrill of wondering 'what if this is real?' Emma and Kai's journey feels authentic – messy emotions, genuine banter, and kisses that linger on the page. Whether you're reminiscing about teen crushes or gifting it to a young reader navigating their own, this book nails the magic of fake-it-till-you-make-it love.
Grab your Kindle copy and join the Haven Valley High crew. Each book stands alone, but you'll want to binge the series for more swoony moments among friends finding their happily-ever-afters. Perfect for cozy reading sessions, book club discussions on fake dating tropes, or anyone who loves contemporary YA with heart.