A Heartfelt Debut: Review of Fake It Like You Mean It by Megan Murphy
Picking up a debut novel often feels like opening a gift wrapped in mystery—there’s excitement mixed with a hint of uncertainty. Megan Murphy’s Fake It Like You Mean It caught my attention immediately with its charming title and intriguing premise. As someone who loves a well-crafted romance that navigates deeper themes, I was eager to dive in. What I didn’t expect was the emotional journey that awaited me.
At its core, Fake It Like You Mean It masterfully intertwines romance with the weighty realities of caregiving, particularly when it comes to Alzheimer’s. When Elle Monroe returns to Elkhart, Indiana, to care for her grandmother, Lovie, she’s met with the unexpected: grumpy nurse Adam Wheeler, sleeping in her bed. This classic enemies-to-lovers setup quickly unfurls into a narrative that balances both humor and heart. As they concoct a fake relationship to aid Lovie’s comprehension of her world, I found myself simultaneously rooting for their romance and reflecting on the poignant struggles of family and memory.
Murphy’s characters feel authentically real. Elle, a podcaster grappling with a childhood fear of driving, resonates with those of us who sometimes dodge our own emotional hurdles. Meanwhile, Adam, steadfast and caring, embodies the quiet heroism of everyday people, often sacrificing his own desires for family. Their chemistry sparkles, with banter that crackles like a live wire, yet it’s in the quieter moments—those shared green smoothies and the light teasing in everyday life—where their connection truly shines.
What stands out in Murphy’s writing is her ability to navigate complex themes without losing the lightness of a romantic comedy. The moments where Lovie experiences clarity are heartbreakingly beautiful, reminding us of both the joy and pain in caregiving. This was a poignant reminder that Alzheimer’s isn’t simply a backdrop; it’s treated with the respect it deserves. Murphy captures the unpredictability, the love tangled with grief, while providing a thoughtful portrayal of caregivers—rarely represented in romance novels.
While the pacing occasionally sagged—especially during repetitive caregiving sequences—the emotional depth and character development kept me turning the pages. One of the most memorable scenes involves a moment where Lovie recognizes Elle after months of confusion—it’s these subtle beats that linger in your heart long after you’ve turned the last page.
Despite minor pacing issues and some underdeveloped secondary arcs, Fake It Like You Mean It is a stunning debut that fulfills its promise of being the perfect blend of romance, humor, and emotional resonance. Readers who enjoy Emily Henry’s clever dialogue or Christina Lauren’s heartfelt narratives will find much to love.
Megan Murphy is undeniably a talent to watch in the romance genre. Her ability to marry humor with deeply personal themes suggests a bright future ahead. If you’re seeking a story that combines authentic relationships with the complexities of love and caregiving, this book is sure to resonate with you. It’s not just a romantic tale; it’s a testament to the messy, beautiful journey of life, love, and the connections that shape us. Reading it was not only an enjoyable experience, but it also offered a reflective pause on what truly matters in our relationships. So, grab your copy and prepare for a journey that will tug at your heartstrings while giving you a good laugh along the way!
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