"This Time It's Real" by Ann Liang is a charming young adult romance novel that follows the life of Eliza Lin, a high school student who becomes an internet sensation after penning a viral essay about a perfect, yet fictional, romance. When her little white lie spirals out of control, Eliza is forced to prove the existence of her made-up boyfriend. To maintain the façade, she convinces the school's most popular and elusive guy, Caz Song, to play the part of her boyfriend.
As they navigate through their fake relationship, staged dates, and the inevitable scrutiny of their classmates and the online world, Eliza and Caz start to develop real feelings for each other. However, with the pressure of keeping up appearances and the fear of being exposed, Eliza must confront the truth about what she really wants and who she truly is.
Key Highlights:
Fake Relationship Trope: The novel plays with the popular fake-dating trope, adding a fresh twist with the modern setting of viral social media fame.
Cultural Exploration: Eliza's story also delves into her cultural identity as an Asian teenager navigating life in a new country, adding depth and relatability to her character.
Real vs. Fake: As the line between real and fake blurs, the novel explores themes of authenticity, self-discovery, and the impact of social media on personal relationships.
Romantic Tension: The chemistry between Eliza and Caz is electric, building tension and anticipation as they move from strangers to something more.
"This Time It's Real" is a heartwarming, witty, and engaging story about love, identity, and the unexpected twists life can take. It’s perfect for fans of contemporary YA romances looking for a delightful read with emotional depth and humor.
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