Fake Dating, Real Feelings, and a Whole Lot of Heart: A Fake It Like You Mean It Book Review
By Megan Murphy | Narrated by Alex Picard
What happens when a fake relationship turns into something real—right in the middle of life’s messiest, most emotional moments? In Fake It Like You Mean It, Megan Murphy delivers a sweet, tender, and surprisingly emotional story that’s more than just flirty banter and romantic sparks (though it has plenty of that, too!). This one dives deep into grief, caregiving, and the complicated heartbreak of watching someone you love fade to Alzheimer’s.
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy from NetGalley (thank you, bookish universe!), and I wasn’t expecting this story to tug at my heart quite like it did. It’s heartfelt and healing, and honestly, it left me thinking about life and love long after the final chapter.
Fake It Like You Mean It Book Review: The Story
Our main character finds herself in a whirlwind fake relationship that, spoiler alert, doesn’t stay fake for long (and I’m not mad about it). What starts as a lighthearted, pretend arrangement quickly turns into something deeper as she navigates her role as a caregiver for a loved one facing Alzheimer’s—a storyline that truly anchors the entire book.
Yes, the romance happens fast. But when you’re dealing with heavy life stuff, emotions get intense, and connections can form in a flash. The author captures that dynamic beautifully. And honestly? I loved seeing the main character go from just surviving to truly showing up for herself—there’s so much personal growth packed into these pages.
The Audiobook: Narration by Alex Picard
If you’re an audiobook fan, you’ll love this one. Alex Picard’s narration brought warmth and depth to every scene, making the emotional moments hit even harder, and the dialogue feels supernatural. It’s one of those listens that wraps around you like a cozy blanket.
Why You’ll Love Fake It Like You Mean It
✅ Real Emotional Depth – The Alzheimer’s storyline isn’t a side plot—it’s the heart of the story and handled with so much care and tenderness.
✅ Character Growth – Watching the main character evolve and step into her own strength was rewarding.
✅ That Perfect Blend of Sweet and Serious – The fake-dating trope brings the fun, while the caregiving element brings all the feels.
✅ Narration That Pulls You In – Alex Picard’s voice really brings the story to life—if you love audiobooks that feel immersive, add this one to your list.
Is Fake It Like You Mean It the Right Book for You?
📚 Readers who want their romance with a side of real-life emotion
❤️ Fans of stories that explore grief, caregiving, and healing
🎧 Audiobook lovers looking for a heartfelt listen
💞 Anyone who loves fake-dating tropes with genuine emotional payoff
Final Thoughts on Fake It Like You Mean It
This one’s for anyone who knows that love doesn’t always show up when things are perfect—it often arrives in the messiest, most vulnerable chapters of our lives. Fake It Like You Mean It blends romance, real-life grief, and meaningful growth into a story that’s equal parts tender and hopeful.
If you’re looking for a romance that goes deeper than surface-level flirting and actually says something about life, loss, and love… this is it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 stars
Huge thanks to NetGalley for the early copy!
Have you read this one yet? Or do you have another emotional romance you’d recommend? Let’s chat in the comments—I’m always up for a good book rec. 💬📚
Don’t forget to check out my other book reviews here! ✨
