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courtknee__vn 's review for:

The (Fake) Dating Game by Timothy Janovsky
5.0
emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Okay, I knew I would love this book (queer, fake dating, & supermarket sweep? Literally made for me) but yall I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! This is a prime example of exactly what I love in a book! Holden & Leo had so much chemistry right from the moment they met and it just sizzled hotter and hotter as the story went on but it was also just so freaking sweet!! Like them starting as a fake relationship was actually perfect for them because they were really able to get to know each other without all of the pressures of trying to impress each other! They were also both dealing with heartbreak and trauma of their own so they were able to understand each other on such a deep level so quickly and realistically.

While this book is really emotional at times, it’s also so much fun and brought me so much joy! I think grief specifically was handled so well. This book also had a third act conflict that actually made sense and helped with the progress of their relationship instead of just being an annoying hindrance to the plot which was really refreshing! 

Also, Buckley is the actual worst and I hope he chokes on his everything bagel 😤

Just everyone do yourself a favor and run, don’t walk to grab this book asap when it’s released on 1/23!! You will not regret it!