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How to Fake it in Hollywood: A Review

By June 13, 2022Book Reviews
How to Fake it in Hollywood by Ava Wilder

She’s had his poster on her wall since she was 12…
He has no idea she exists. He’s only in it for the free lunch.

Grey Brooks is synonymous with her character Lucy LaVey from hit tv show Poison Paradise. Now it’s been a few years since the show wrapped and her love life torpedoed. Determined to resurrect her dying career, Grey hires a new publicist who suggests a fake relationship with her other, very famous client. The only catch? It’s none other than Ethan Atkins, Grey’s celebrity crush. The same guy who she’s lusted after ever since she can remember. Good luck keeping things professional…

There’s so much to love about How to Fake it in Hollywood. The enchanting and eccentric L.A. setting really tickled my fancy. Who doesn’t enjoy reading about the seemingly charmed lives of the rich and famous? And as a Southern California native I can honestly say that the references to the fresh-pressed green juice, inclusive attitudes and bohemian boutiques are spot on.

Another highlight was the emotional rollercoaster of a relationship between Grey and Ethan. They are both incredibly skeptical about the whole arrangement, not to mention each other. And despite the obvious physical attraction, it’s lucky they’re both paid actors because they get along like hot sauce and ice cream. The sexual tension was so intense my kindle was practically smoking!

Despite being beautiful and spectacularly wealthy, they certainly have their fair share of problems. Because… Stars—They’re just like us! Grey’s fear of emotional intimacy and Ethan’s messy unresolved trauma felt agonizingly real. These two just met and they’re already prime candidates for couples counseling! It’s safe to say there were plenty of thorny obstacles standing in the way of their successful staged love connection. My only criticism is that their personal issues became a little heavy and played a bigger role in the book than I would have preferred.

Ultimately, How to Fake it in Hollywood is a smoldering nail-biter replete with all the celebrity drama, fun and dynamic supporting characters and plenty of angst-ridden romance.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Click here to grab a copy of How to Fake it in Hollywood at a bookstore near you.

*Many thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.