Review of Faking What’s Real: A YA Fake Relationship Romance (Haven Valley High Book 1) by A.C. Wilds
As a lifelong fan of contemporary YA romance, I was immediately drawn to Faking What’s Real by A.C. Wilds. The premise—a fake relationship that morphs into something real—had me intrigued. Who doesn’t love a good romantic trope where hearts are at stake behind a façade? Wilds captures the essence of high school relationships beautifully, offering readers a delightful entry into the world of Haven Valley High.
From the get-go, we meet Emma and Kai, two young characters caught in the whims of adolescent bet-making and pressures to conform. Emma, caught up in her impulsive friend’s challenge, asks out her crush, Kai—a known commitment-phobe. The idea of a two-month fake relationship until Halloween seemed utterly ludicrous (and yet so typical of high school), adding a layer of comedic tension that kept me flipping pages. The dual perspectives in the narrative allowed me to connect with both characters, each battling their own internal struggles while trying to maintain their guise.
One of the standout features of Wilds’ writing is the relatable realism infused into her characters. Emma’s insecurities and Kai’s reluctance to date are portrayed with such authenticity that I found myself reminiscing about my own teenage experiences. As the story unfolded, I became invested in their evolving connection—especially as their fake relationship blurred into undeniable chemistry. The author’s ability to capture those sweet, awkward moments—like their first kiss meant to convince onlookers of their “real” relationship—made me grin like a fool, reminiscent of the butterflies that accompany the first stages of love.
The pacing felt just right; Wilds balances heartfelt moments with the whimsical chaos that comes with high school life. While some readers might find the book formulaic, there’s a charm in its predictability—perfect for anyone looking for an escape into a light, comforting read. One reader mentioned the perspective shift between Emma and Kai as “genius,” and I couldn’t agree more. It enriches the narrative, providing a more well-rounded emotional experience.
Another aspect I appreciated was the supporting cast—friends who not only add depth to the story but also highlight the themes of camaraderie and the trials of growing up. Their interactions brought humor and warmth, bolstering the main narrative.
Faking What’s Real is, at its heart, a celebration of impulsiveness, friendship, and the unpredictable nature of young love. It’s a sweet pill of nostalgia that anyone who’s ever navigated the tumultuous waters of high school romance will relate to. If you enjoy stories where laughter and love intersect amid life’s messiness, this book is for you.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Faking What’s Real to readers seeking a charming, feel-good romance. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the lines between reality and façade can blur in the most beautiful ways, making us question what’s truly real. A.C. Wilds has laid a lovely foundation for the Haven Valley High series, and I can’t wait to dive into the next adventures of Emma, Kai, and their friends. Happy reading!
You can find Faking What’s Real: A YA Fake Relationship Romance (Haven Valley High Book 1) here >>