R: This Time It’s Real by Ann Liang

In “This Time It’s Real” by Ann Liang, Eliza Lin’s fake essay about a perfect romance goes viral, and to maintain her newfound popularity, she ropes in Caz Song, a charismatic actor, to pretend to be her boyfriend. Set in Beijing, this heartfelt YA romance explores themes of cultural identity, family expectations, and self-discovery as Eliza navigates the blurred lines between fake and real feelings. With witty banter, emotional depth, and a fresh take on the fake-dating trope, the novel delivers a charming story about authenticity, vulnerability, and finding your place in the world.