A review by alliesannotation
Fake It Like You Mean It by Megan Murphy

hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

⭐️: 5/5 
🌶️: 2/5 
Format: 📱 

WOW. Get ready to cry. I would say I'm a moderate crier. I cry at some things. But I BAWLED. Multiple times. This was one of the most relatable, viscerally emotional stories I've read in a long time. Murphy did such an excellent job fleshing out these characters, and they were so real, and I felt everything right along with them. The entire story takes place in this bubble, but it was so well developed I didn't want to leave.

The portrayal of Lovie's Alzheimer's here is gut-wrenching. While there was a tiny bit of suspension of disbelief needed in terms of how the in-home care team operated, it was to the benefit of the plot and the romance. I was able to vividly picture Lovie's situation, the setting, and their interactions, and Elle's inner monologue at those interactions just hit me so hard. While I don't have any relations with Alzheimer's, it was just so beautifully illustrated that I got so into it.

I am shocked that this was a debut novel. It's incredible. I highly recommend anyone check it out!!