This was a good debut book. Despite its fun and colourful cover, the book tackles a lot more deep and dark emotions than I expected. While some were listed in the blurb, I still did not anticipate as much time on the page for them. While the romance was great and I always enjoy a fake relationship especially in the film industry. It felt like the darkness overtook it all a bit, but then did not fully play out and was all a bit too easily fixed in the end.

For a fake dating Hollywood romance this book was so much more angsty than I anticipated. The back and forth between Grey and Ethan really works and leads to exciting tension.

What starts as a fun, flirty fake-dating setup between rising star Grey Brooks and reclusive actor Ethan Atkins slowly turns into an emotional, layered story about grief, addiction, and second chances.

Grey is smart, driven, and refreshingly self-aware, while Ethan’s journey through loss and alcoholism is written with nuance and weight. Their chemistry is 🌶️ but what really stood out was how real it all felt, especially when things got messy.

This isn’t your typical rom-com fluff (though it is fun). Ava Wilder gives us glitz and heartbreak in equal measure, with a few plot turns that might catch you off guard but ultimately feel earned. The emotional payoff is worth it.

A solid debut with a sharp voice, sizzling slow burn, and a lot more heart than the cover lets on. Would definitely recommend if you like your romance with a little Hollywood sparkle and a whole lot of depth.

Honestly really loved this book. I’m a sucker for anything romance and this met my expectations.
The fake dating trope along with rom com were chefs kiss!

The first 60% of this book, I really enjoyed and was convinced this was headed for 4.5-5 star territory. Unfortunately, the last 40% lost me. I don’t necessarily dislike where the story went - I just think it was rushed and the time jumps were a bit too much.

fake dating with a lot of emotional drama? Sign me up. While the cover and title suggest this will be a sweet little romcom, this book had so much depth with events centering on the dark side of fame. I really enjoyed how the two MC's bonded and their relationship grew while also growing themselves. A great read if you're looking for a book that will make you emotional!

When the amazing and talented Ashley Winstead says you need a book, I drop everything! I’m so happy I listened to her on this one! I love a good fake dating, forced proximity trope and this one worked so well for me! While most of this book was funny and lighthearted, there were some deeper subject matters at times. With grief, addiction, and the ugly side of Hollywood. Overall I really enjoyed this one, but the ending left me wanting more.

**How to Fake It in Hollywood** by Ava Wilder is a witty and charming exploration of fame, identity, and self-acceptance. The story follows two people—one a rising star and the other a struggling actress—who strike a fake relationship deal to save face in the public eye. Wilder masterfully blends humor and emotional depth as the characters navigate their complicated personal lives and public personas. The book delves into themes of authenticity, fame’s pressure, and finding love in unexpected places. With relatable characters and a sharp, engaging narrative, it’s a fun and thought-provoking read that’s hard to put down.

OK I forgot to submit this review when I first read it years ago but I felt terrible because I have read this book several times since!

I had a blast with this one! I went in knowing it was a fake dating plot, so I figured it would simply hit all the traditional fake dating story beats. Instead, the story turned out to be much more profound. The book tackles some tough and sensitive topics, and the author did an amazing job with them. I loved Grey and Ethan's characters and how they evolved throughout the story. All in all, it was a fantastic read!

I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. The writing was sharp and the characters were well-rounded. Our two main characters are actors who join together in a "fake dating" scheme to help their careers. There was more angst than I normally enjoy but I think it worked for the story.

Loved these two the first time, love them again rereading their story. I eat up fake-dating romances and this one!!! It’s so good!!! It’s funny and charming, but it also has a lot of heart, emotion and angst.

I am a huge fans of celebrity blinds, and one of my favorite sub-genres is PR relationships.

This one was cute, but mostly underwhelming. I didn’t feel the passion between the characters- it felt more like lust. It too quickly went from 0 to 100 and we did not have enough progression to make it believable.

Wasn’t bad by any means, just not totally my cup of tea.

This was a lot of fun! Grey and Ethan's story kept me engaged and I had fun from start to finish. I liked the writing style also. I will definitely be looking for more from Ava Wilder.

This book has been on my Netgalley shelf for years and I haven’t picked it up. No shade to the author or the book, I think my taste has just changed and I’m not the right person to review it anymore.

This was such a disappointment. I was so excited about the premise because I love fake dating, but I could not buy into the characters as a couple. I was not a fan of how some of the heavier topics were covered and by the end I really hated Ethan.

ava is such a good writer this book made so happy and it made realized a lot of things. and I am happy I was able to read it. it has good characters and it doesn't feel like it was force which is a plus for me

This is lighthearted romance that brings a bit of charm to the workplace romance genre. The characters are likable, and the storyline is engaging, but it doesn’t quite reach its full potential. The chemistry between the protagonists is enjoyable, but there are moments when the pacing feels uneven, which affects the flow of the story.

While there are several funny and heartwarming scenes, some of the plot points feel predictable, and the character development could have been deeper. Despite these minor issues, Its still enjoyable read for anyone looking for a feel-good romance with a few laughs along the way.

Rating: 3/5

Better late than never!

I finally got around to reading How to Fake it in Hollywood and boy, I wished I would have picked it up when I first received the book. The chemistry between the characters stood out the most and allowed this fun story to stand out above the rest. The fake dating trope is one of the best, especially when done correctly. And this one hit the mark.

If you haven't read this book yet, do it! It is a fun time.

Thank you to the publisher for my gifted copy.

Ava Wilder’s How to Fake It in Hollywood is a fun and engaging romp through the glamorous chaos of Tinseltown. The story follows a struggling actress who enters a fake relationship with a famous actor, leading to a mix of humor and heartfelt moments.

Wilder’s sharp writing captures the highs and lows of fame, while the chemistry between the leads keeps the pages turning. The exploration of identity and public perception adds depth to the charming romance.

With its witty dialogue and entertaining plot, How to Fake It in Hollywood is a delightful escape that will leave you smiling. A solid four stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟