Book Review: The Stand-In Boyfriend (Grove Valley High Book 1)
When I first stumbled upon The Stand-In Boyfriend by Emma Doherty, the promise of a sweet high school romance intertwined with the complexities of unrequited love drew me in like a moth to a flame. The captivating blend of the “fake relationship” trope with the poignant struggles of teenage emotions felt like a nostalgic throwback to my own high school days—a time filled with crushes, longing glances, and the dizzy whirl of infatuation.
At the heart of this tale is Livy Chapman, who has harbored feelings for her best friend, Jessie, for what feels like forever. It’s an all-too-familiar scenario—a character caught in the throes of unreciprocated affection while watching them parade around with someone else. When Chase Mitchell, the quintessential popular guy, proposes a fake dating arrangement to stoke Jessie’s jealousy, Livy jumps at the chance, hoping it might change Jessie’s perception of her. This setup might seem like a classic rom-com formula, but Doherty weaves it with such authenticity that it elevates the premise well above mere cliché.
One of the strongest aspects of Doherty’s writing lies in her ability to create relatable, multidimensional characters. Livy is both endearing and infuriating in her obliviousness, which makes her journey all the more compelling. I often found myself rooting for her during her awkward moments, and sighing in frustration when she chose to overlook Chase’s growing affection—a brilliant testament to Doherty’s understanding of the high stakes involved in teenage romance. Chase, on the other hand, is a swoon-worthy character who balances charm with vulnerability. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, layered with sweet flirtation and profound emotional depth.
What particularly struck me was the pacing of the novel. The dialogue flows naturally, interspersed with light-hearted banter and emotional confrontations. Moments such as Livy’s realization of Chase’s true feelings were both heartwarming and palpable, underscoring the book’s themes of self-discovery and acceptance. I couldn’t help but laugh at Livy’s internal monologue and shake my head at the antics that unfold—everything feels just right for the teenage setting.
Doherty has meticulously crafted a narrative that doesn’t shy away from the intricate landscape of teenage angst. Livy’s anxiety, her insecurities, and her misguided loyalty to Jessie feel genuine and relatable. One reviewer captured it perfectly: "Her complete innocence and obliviousness make this book so honest and real." This mirrors my own feelings while reading; you truly root for Livy to see the light and embrace the wonderful opportunity standing right in front of her.
In conclusion, The Stand-In Boyfriend is an enjoyable read that perfectly captures the nuances of young love and friendship. It’ll resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the highs and lows of adolescence. If you love a good dose of feel-good romance with plenty of heart-tugging moments, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. For those who need a reminder of the excitement and turmoil that come with early love, grab your copy and prepare to get swept away in the charming world of Grove Valley High. Emma Doherty has definitely won a fan in me, and I eagerly await what she has in store next!
You can find The Stand-In Boyfriend (Grove Valley High Book 1) here >>