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A review by natraf_reads
The (Fake) Dating Game by Timothy Janovsky
emotional
funny
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
A book about grief, being authentically you, and pursuing your passions.
Holden James is one week out from auditioning for his absolute favorite TV game show, when he finds his soul crushed by his now ex-boyfriend. Holden won’t let his emotions stop him (and his non-refundable airline tickets) from auditioning for Madcap Market.
When he arrives in LA, he has a classic emotional meltdown to All To Well (Taylor’s Version) - we’ve all been there. The super hot hotel concierge, Leo, calls to tell him he’s disturbing other hotel guests and makes him a deal with a pizza to quiet down.
Holden and Leo’s chemistry is immediate!! I adore Leo’s character, his big old heart looking for the best in everyone !! The sexual tension between these two is insane and I was rooting for them the first moment we met Leo!!
This book talked a lot about grief. Losing a parent and the difficulties that come with that forever. Grief has many stages, and there is no singular way to grieve. I thought this topic was explored extremely well and Holden’s journey with grief felt real.
Other aspects of this book that I loved included the financial struggles of our main characters. This felt very relatable and I believe many people will see themselves as Holden and Leo. In addition, I loved the message of finding something purposeful in your life that fuels your passion. Finding a career or purpose that makes you feel fulfilled.
Overall, I adored this book. The cheesy innuendos, the references to current pop culture, the banter - all of it was so fun and made for a great read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Holden James is one week out from auditioning for his absolute favorite TV game show, when he finds his soul crushed by his now ex-boyfriend. Holden won’t let his emotions stop him (and his non-refundable airline tickets) from auditioning for Madcap Market.
When he arrives in LA, he has a classic emotional meltdown to All To Well (Taylor’s Version) - we’ve all been there. The super hot hotel concierge, Leo, calls to tell him he’s disturbing other hotel guests and makes him a deal with a pizza to quiet down.
Holden and Leo’s chemistry is immediate!! I adore Leo’s character, his big old heart looking for the best in everyone !! The sexual tension between these two is insane and I was rooting for them the first moment we met Leo!!
This book talked a lot about grief. Losing a parent and the difficulties that come with that forever. Grief has many stages, and there is no singular way to grieve. I thought this topic was explored extremely well and Holden’s journey with grief felt real.
Other aspects of this book that I loved included the financial struggles of our main characters. This felt very relatable and I believe many people will see themselves as Holden and Leo. In addition, I loved the message of finding something purposeful in your life that fuels your passion. Finding a career or purpose that makes you feel fulfilled.
Overall, I adored this book. The cheesy innuendos, the references to current pop culture, the banter - all of it was so fun and made for a great read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Graphic: Grief
Moderate: Cancer, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, and Death of parent
Minor: Homophobia