Simon and Schuster FAKE SKATING

Fake Skating by Lynn Painter is a heartwarming and entertaining young adult contemporary romance novel that combines childhood friendship, fake dating, sports romance, emotional secrets, family relationships, and second-chance love into an unforgettable romantic comedy.

From the bestselling author of Better Than the Movies and The Do-Over, this delightful novel explores what happens when two former childhood best friends reunite after years of separation and discover that their feelings for each other may be more complicated than they imagined.

The story follows Dani Collins, a high school senior whose life changes dramatically following her parents' difficult divorce.

When Dani and her mother move to the hockey-loving town of Southview, Minnesota, to live with her grandfather, she hopes the change will provide an opportunity for a fresh start.

Returning to Southview also means reconnecting with Alec Barczewski, the boy who once meant everything to her.

During their childhood summers, Dani and Alec were inseparable, sharing adventures, secrets, laughter, and an unforgettable friendship.

However, after Dani moved away, their friendship unexpectedly ended when they lost contact.

Years later, Dani discovers that Alec has changed considerably.

The once-quiet and slightly awkward boy she remembers has transformed into a handsome, popular, and talented high school hockey star.

In a town where hockey players are treated like celebrities, Alec enjoys the attention and admiration that come with his athletic success.

But his growing popularity has also created complications.

Alec's reputation has suffered, potentially affecting his chances of pursuing a future in professional hockey.

Meanwhile, Dani is determined to strengthen her academic achievements and improve her chances of attending Harvard.

When unexpected circumstances bring them together, Alec proposes an unusual arrangement: they should pretend to be romantically involved.

Their fake relationship could help Alec improve his public image while allowing Dani to gain a position as the hockey team's manager, strengthening her college application.

Although the arrangement initially seems practical, pretending to be a couple quickly becomes far more complicated than either of them expects.

As Dani and Alec spend more time together, they begin rediscovering the friendship they once shared.

Old memories resurface, unresolved misunderstandings become increasingly difficult to ignore, and genuine romantic feelings begin developing beneath their carefully constructed relationship.

At the same time, complicated family circumstances and hidden secrets threaten their growing connection.

Both must confront the truth about their past and decide whether they are willing to risk their friendship for the possibility of something more meaningful.

Through witty dialogue, romantic tension, entertaining situations, and emotionally engaging storytelling, Lynn Painter creates a charming story about friendship, trust, personal growth, and falling in love.

Fake Skating is an enjoyable young adult romantic comedy that combines the excitement of high school hockey with the emotional journey of two former best friends discovering their feelings for each other.