A review by she_who_reads_ya_books
This Time It's Real by Ann Liang

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-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

5.0

“I hope you remember to miss me when all this is over” 
 
When seventeen-year-old Eliza Lin’s essay about meeting the love of her life unexpectedly goes viral, her entire life changes overnight. Now she has the approval of her classmates at her new international school in Beijing, a career-launching internship opportunity at her favorite magazine…and a massive secret to keep. Eliza made her essay up. She’s never been in a relationship before, let alone in love. All good writing is lying, right? Desperate to hide the truth, Eliza strikes a deal with the famous actor in her class, the charming but aloof Caz Song. She’ll help him write his college applications if he poses as her boyfriend. Caz is a dream boyfriend -- he passes handwritten notes to her in class, makes her little sister laugh, and takes her out on motorcycle rides to the best snack stalls around the city. But when her relationship with Caz starts feeling a little too convincing, all of Eliza’s carefully laid plans are threatened. Can she still follow her dreams if it means breaking her own heart? 
 
This has my heart. My whole heart. That’s it. That’s the review… 
 
I’m joking! Don’t worry! I just love this book so much that I could list a million reasons for you to read it! 
 
Ann Laing never disappoints… she doesn’t even know HOW to disappoint! This hit so hard! 
 
The fake dating was spot on! I couldn’t have asked for anything better! 
 
I really connected with Eliza and letting people in. I personally suffer a lot with that, because I’m always scared I’m going to get hurt if I let people in, and I think the author really did a good job showing it. 
 
Can was super cute! Boyfriend material FOR REAL! 
 
Everything was perfect. Now go read the book hehe.