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Pretend for Me
Cassie
I used to believe love was enough to keep someone. Turns out I was wrong. Matthew had been my family, my safe place, my dream made real. But when he got the chance to escape our broken beginnings, he had a difficult choice to make: a “real” family, or the one he and I had cobbled together. In the end, it wasn’t me he chose. So I left, too, because running away didn’t hurt as much as losing him did.
Now, a decade later, fate has thrown us back together, and every wound we left behind is ripped open, leaving us more marked than before. The love between us never truly left, but trusting him again might just break me for good.
Matthew
All I ever wanted was to have a name that mattered. To be somebody. So when the opportunity finally came, I latched onto it with both arms, letting go of the only person who ever loved me unconditionally in the process.
Cassie had been home before I even knew what the word meant. Losing her should have been my wake-up call. Instead, it took me ten years to realize the truth: Nothing I built without her mattered.
Now that she's back, I’ll do anything to prove I’m not the boy who let the one real thing in his life slip away. I just need to get her to stop running and hear me out.
Can we find our way back together without pretending?
I used to believe love was enough to keep someone. Turns out I was wrong. Matthew had been my family, my safe place, my dream made real. But when he got the chance to escape our broken beginnings, he had a difficult choice to make: a “real” family, or the one he and I had cobbled together. In the end, it wasn’t me he chose. So I left, too, because running away didn’t hurt as much as losing him did.
Now, a decade later, fate has thrown us back together, and every wound we left behind is ripped open, leaving us more marked than before. The love between us never truly left, but trusting him again might just break me for good.
Matthew
All I ever wanted was to have a name that mattered. To be somebody. So when the opportunity finally came, I latched onto it with both arms, letting go of the only person who ever loved me unconditionally in the process.
Cassie had been home before I even knew what the word meant. Losing her should have been my wake-up call. Instead, it took me ten years to realize the truth: Nothing I built without her mattered.
Now that she's back, I’ll do anything to prove I’m not the boy who let the one real thing in his life slip away. I just need to get her to stop running and hear me out.
Can we find our way back together without pretending?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2024
150 people are currently reading
798 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Napolitano
3 books30 followersStephanie is a storyteller blessed (and sometimes cursed) with an overactive imagination. She loves creating flawed characters navigating flawed worlds, crafting stories that make people feel. When she's not writing, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her son, immersing herself in a good book, or exploring nature on long, peaceful walks. After experiencing her own heartache, she now writes her own happily-ever-afters, creating worlds where true love and hope are possible.
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WEBSITE:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
December 17, 2024
i feel like cassie deserved better. her whole life she was met with issue after issue. She’s bestfriends with a main girl since kids in foster care and are trauma bonded of the abuse they suffered then she purposely makes her self unlovable so she won’t get separated from him but he gets adopted by rich couple that hated her. even after being treated like trash by them, he always took their side and was embarrassed of her but still kept her around and thought she was just jealous of his rich new life. They break up after they get into a fight over he’s become rich asshole who he’d hated but he said something about her not understanding because she doesn’t have parents and she leaves and they’re not together anymore.
decade later they’re adults and he’s working for his dad but still misses cassie. he meets her when he’s with his friend at a dinner and makes a scene and runs after her but it’s pathetic if you think about how badly he ignored and refused to believe his family and new life and himself were to her. he always pushed her until she gave in fights or sex it’s so annoying how many authors do this. anyway he’s in touch with his sister who was like family to the main girl but after cassie and him get together it’s found out that his adoptive parents made sure his aunt and uncle wouldn’t adopted cassie and she missed out on having a family even after self sabotaging.
anyways theyre living together and he gets shot and died for a minute but makes it alive after being robbed in his expensive apartment which is shady anyways turns out his sister was in an abusive relationship i don’t know if the guy was older or not but he was extremely shady since the short scene he was in and he got obsessed with money so he made her tell him when main guy be out to rob him and this is the part i got annoyed with the main girl besides easily accepting the main guy after a decade of no speaking because he thought she was jealous of his new life was when she found out it was main guys sister who caused him to get shot. she got mad like for many months and later years even after finding out she was being abused and sa by their former foster parent. she wouldn’t even think of forgiving her until therapy and when she got adopted by main guys friend and his wife. i think the hatred was extremely unnecessary.
forgot to mention he tried to get over her by sleeping around and she couldn’t even handle dates there was one guy but she couldn’t possible imagine ever being with someone who wasn’t her childhood boyfriend who dismissed his new life’s reaction towards her, the poor orphan with no life. why won’t authors quit the whole she’s too busy working and trying to survive but don’t worry the man is always a whore. yuck. seriously not even a crush.
which is funny because later in therapy they get in a fight for him sleeping with rich girls to forget about her while she was trying to survive in shelters and she was insecure and upset that he slept with girls the opposite of her.
decade later they’re adults and he’s working for his dad but still misses cassie. he meets her when he’s with his friend at a dinner and makes a scene and runs after her but it’s pathetic if you think about how badly he ignored and refused to believe his family and new life and himself were to her. he always pushed her until she gave in fights or sex it’s so annoying how many authors do this. anyway he’s in touch with his sister who was like family to the main girl but after cassie and him get together it’s found out that his adoptive parents made sure his aunt and uncle wouldn’t adopted cassie and she missed out on having a family even after self sabotaging.
anyways theyre living together and he gets shot and died for a minute but makes it alive after being robbed in his expensive apartment which is shady anyways turns out his sister was in an abusive relationship i don’t know if the guy was older or not but he was extremely shady since the short scene he was in and he got obsessed with money so he made her tell him when main guy be out to rob him and this is the part i got annoyed with the main girl besides easily accepting the main guy after a decade of no speaking because he thought she was jealous of his new life was when she found out it was main guys sister who caused him to get shot. she got mad like for many months and later years even after finding out she was being abused and sa by their former foster parent. she wouldn’t even think of forgiving her until therapy and when she got adopted by main guys friend and his wife. i think the hatred was extremely unnecessary.
forgot to mention he tried to get over her by sleeping around and she couldn’t even handle dates there was one guy but she couldn’t possible imagine ever being with someone who wasn’t her childhood boyfriend who dismissed his new life’s reaction towards her, the poor orphan with no life. why won’t authors quit the whole she’s too busy working and trying to survive but don’t worry the man is always a whore. yuck. seriously not even a crush.
which is funny because later in therapy they get in a fight for him sleeping with rich girls to forget about her while she was trying to survive in shelters and she was insecure and upset that he slept with girls the opposite of her.
November 19, 2024
Synopsis
Cassie had always wanted a family of her own. Growing up in foster care only made her yearn for what she never had: a sense of security, comfort, and love.
Matthew coveted nothing more than a name: to be somebody to someone. In his pursuit of it, he risked the one person who had always been his real. Real love. Real family.
Childhood love didn’t stand a chance against the desire for something more. When one of them gets handed the opportunity for a fresh start, it means leaving behind the other.
An unexpected encounter ten years in the future forces them to face what happens when the lines of real and make believe are crossed. Can they find their way back to one another without pretending?
Review
I am always happy to discover and support new writers, so I was really excited to read this book. Thank you for the ARC opportunity.
I must say, the story hooked me right from the start. From the moment I read the synopsis and the tropes, I was intrigued. I didn’t expect to be so captivated, though.
Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. The story is so moving, and I found myself holding back tears for most of it. The book is absolutely wonderful! Never a dull moment, the narration is flawless, shifting seamlessly between past and present. It’s beautifully written, and the characters are simply delightful! Matthew and Cassie will steal your heart!
5⭐️
Cassie had always wanted a family of her own. Growing up in foster care only made her yearn for what she never had: a sense of security, comfort, and love.
Matthew coveted nothing more than a name: to be somebody to someone. In his pursuit of it, he risked the one person who had always been his real. Real love. Real family.
Childhood love didn’t stand a chance against the desire for something more. When one of them gets handed the opportunity for a fresh start, it means leaving behind the other.
An unexpected encounter ten years in the future forces them to face what happens when the lines of real and make believe are crossed. Can they find their way back to one another without pretending?
Review
I am always happy to discover and support new writers, so I was really excited to read this book. Thank you for the ARC opportunity.
I must say, the story hooked me right from the start. From the moment I read the synopsis and the tropes, I was intrigued. I didn’t expect to be so captivated, though.
Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. The story is so moving, and I found myself holding back tears for most of it. The book is absolutely wonderful! Never a dull moment, the narration is flawless, shifting seamlessly between past and present. It’s beautifully written, and the characters are simply delightful! Matthew and Cassie will steal your heart!
5⭐️
January 15, 2025
ℍ𝕠𝕨 𝕀 ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜: ARC E-Book
𝔻𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕋𝕠 ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕: 10 Days
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖: Medium
ℙ𝕣𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕥𝕒𝕓𝕚𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕪: Medium
𝔼𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕪𝕡𝕖: Happily Ever After
•
𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤 𝕠𝕟 𝕎𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕥𝕪𝕝𝕖: This was a great second chance, foster siblings, romance! The build up was perfect and the flash backs made the story so much stronger!
𝔽𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℚ𝕦𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤: “I’d rather hurt being real than pretend and feel nothing.”
& “Once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.”
& ““Tell me this isn’t real.” There was a challenge in his silky voice. “If this isn’t real, let’s play pretend.” He gave me a soft peck on the lips. “Pretend for me.””
& “We’re the real deal. I promise it’s always real. We’re real … ‘Once you are real you can't become unreal again. It lasts for always.’”
𝔽𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤: 16 & 29
𝔽𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣: Cassie: She overcame so much and there was so much she struggled wjth during the story but that just made her growth for the last quarter just so perfect.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨: This story is a heartfelt and emotional journey of love, identity, and second chance. The narrative beautifully shifts between past and present, allowing you to experience the characters' growth and the challenges they face. Napolitano's writing is flawless, and the characters of Matthew and Cassie are wonderfully developed, making it easy to connect with them. Overall, this is a touching story of finding one's way back to true love and family without pretending. ❤️
𝔻𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕋𝕠 ℝ𝕖𝕒𝕕: 10 Days
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖: Medium
ℙ𝕣𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕥𝕒𝕓𝕚𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕪: Medium
𝔼𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕋𝕪𝕡𝕖: Happily Ever After
•
𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤 𝕠𝕟 𝕎𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕥𝕪𝕝𝕖: This was a great second chance, foster siblings, romance! The build up was perfect and the flash backs made the story so much stronger!
𝔽𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℚ𝕦𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤: “I’d rather hurt being real than pretend and feel nothing.”
& “Once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.”
& ““Tell me this isn’t real.” There was a challenge in his silky voice. “If this isn’t real, let’s play pretend.” He gave me a soft peck on the lips. “Pretend for me.””
& “We’re the real deal. I promise it’s always real. We’re real … ‘Once you are real you can't become unreal again. It lasts for always.’”
𝔽𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤: 16 & 29
𝔽𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣: Cassie: She overcame so much and there was so much she struggled wjth during the story but that just made her growth for the last quarter just so perfect.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨: This story is a heartfelt and emotional journey of love, identity, and second chance. The narrative beautifully shifts between past and present, allowing you to experience the characters' growth and the challenges they face. Napolitano's writing is flawless, and the characters of Matthew and Cassie are wonderfully developed, making it easy to connect with them. Overall, this is a touching story of finding one's way back to true love and family without pretending. ❤️
November 4, 2024
The story follows Cassie, who was still navigating the ropes of her life. Working in a restaurant with a rude boss, she didn't have much of a choice, or so she thought. Her true passion lies in the arts; the painting they are her solace and her desired vocation. However, someone from her past, someone who she deeply cared for and the one who broke her heart, was about to come back into her life.
Matthew never anticipated that the girl who ran away from him because he chose the name and reputation of her adoptive parents ten years ago would suddenly appear in front of him. He was successful, but something was always amiss in his life—a void that can only be filled with Cassie's presence. Their shared past of Foster care, childhood memories of laughter, love, and hope, and the heartbreak that ensued all came rushing back in an instant.
As their fates get intertwined once again, can they find it in their hearts to fall for each other once again? Despite the pain of the past events, will Cassie and Matthew rekindle their love and learn that sometimes situations get the best out of the emotions and choices that they desperately want to cling to?
‘Once you are real you can't become unreal again. It lasts for always.’
This book has my utmost appreciation and love from the bottom of my heart. As a reader who has read stories where you see bits and pieces of yourself in the story, "Pretend for me" felt like home. Whether it's the emotional vulnerabilities or the yearning for a future where happiness doesn't deceive you, this story has it all. The elements of passion, romantic sparks, and swoon-worthy love were intriguingly explored in this dual POV narration. Their passion and desire for each other was fiery, and years apart hasn't diminished it; rather, it has fanned the sensual flames of mutual attraction and pleasure. Cassie's uncertainties and fears and Matthew's desperation, trying to hold on to her—these scenes truly tugged at my heart's strings. The other characters were marvelously well written, and my favorite was Audrey. She is exactly the type of best friend that every girl can wish for. And the shocking surprises—wow, they were unexpected yet added an interesting dimension to the story.
If you are a reader who loves tropes of second-chance romance, found family, and passionate love that will give you butterflies in the stomach, then this book awaits your time.
Matthew never anticipated that the girl who ran away from him because he chose the name and reputation of her adoptive parents ten years ago would suddenly appear in front of him. He was successful, but something was always amiss in his life—a void that can only be filled with Cassie's presence. Their shared past of Foster care, childhood memories of laughter, love, and hope, and the heartbreak that ensued all came rushing back in an instant.
As their fates get intertwined once again, can they find it in their hearts to fall for each other once again? Despite the pain of the past events, will Cassie and Matthew rekindle their love and learn that sometimes situations get the best out of the emotions and choices that they desperately want to cling to?
‘Once you are real you can't become unreal again. It lasts for always.’
This book has my utmost appreciation and love from the bottom of my heart. As a reader who has read stories where you see bits and pieces of yourself in the story, "Pretend for me" felt like home. Whether it's the emotional vulnerabilities or the yearning for a future where happiness doesn't deceive you, this story has it all. The elements of passion, romantic sparks, and swoon-worthy love were intriguingly explored in this dual POV narration. Their passion and desire for each other was fiery, and years apart hasn't diminished it; rather, it has fanned the sensual flames of mutual attraction and pleasure. Cassie's uncertainties and fears and Matthew's desperation, trying to hold on to her—these scenes truly tugged at my heart's strings. The other characters were marvelously well written, and my favorite was Audrey. She is exactly the type of best friend that every girl can wish for. And the shocking surprises—wow, they were unexpected yet added an interesting dimension to the story.
If you are a reader who loves tropes of second-chance romance, found family, and passionate love that will give you butterflies in the stomach, then this book awaits your time.
November 15, 2024
3.5/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
Pretend for Me is a childhood friends to lovers, second-chance romance filled with a lot of heart and love. A near tragic story at the beginning of two young children in a foster home, surviving together in a home void of loving parental figures and traumatic upbringings, Pretend for Me tells the story of how two people could potentially be each others' soul mates.
I enjoyed this book and thought it was really sweet. The third act completely took me by surprise, and I'm glad at how the story ended. This book was jam packed and had a nonstop story line. I hope that Oreo the cat and Rocky the dog got there happily ever after too! 🤭
I wish Stephanie all the best in the debut of her first novel. Thank you for offering me a copy of your book in exchange for my review.
2/5🌶️
Pretend for Me is a childhood friends to lovers, second-chance romance filled with a lot of heart and love. A near tragic story at the beginning of two young children in a foster home, surviving together in a home void of loving parental figures and traumatic upbringings, Pretend for Me tells the story of how two people could potentially be each others' soul mates.
I enjoyed this book and thought it was really sweet. The third act completely took me by surprise, and I'm glad at how the story ended. This book was jam packed and had a nonstop story line. I hope that Oreo the cat and Rocky the dog got there happily ever after too! 🤭
I wish Stephanie all the best in the debut of her first novel. Thank you for offering me a copy of your book in exchange for my review.
November 18, 2024
Pretend for Me is a debut novel - an emotional story about children who grow up feeling unloved and unwanted and bond deeply with one another. Events occur that separate them, and a decade later, they're thrust into one another's orbit once again. With all that past traumas to unpack and heal from, have they grown enough independently in that decade to make things work now?
📖 I enjoyed the plot with its twists and turns taking you on an emotional journey as well as a physical. There's more subterfuge than I expected, in a good way.
The third act was quite a surprise, in a good way. I didn't expect that bit of mystery/thriller-ish side quest, but found it interesting and fun.
✍️🏼 I enjoyed the writing. It reads as smooth. Most of the dialogue felt natural and like it fit the characters.
⏳️I thought the pacing was good, with well timed/placed flashbacks that enrich the story. However, there was one flashback that I skipped and came back to because I needed to know right now the real time info asap. 😂 I can't say if that was a me being impatient thing, or not.
👥 The characters are pretty well developed, with interesting side characters who I also found fun and interesting.
💞 Their romance is so sweet, so real. They go through the same trials and tribulations that many couples face in real life, and I appreciate the growth shown in how they handle those.
🌶 It's slow burn, so don't expect spice early on. I feel the spice is well done, well timed and placed.
📝 There were a few times it read as more telling than showing to me, and I didn't love that. I'm not a writer, so maybe there was a reason for it, or something. That and some dialogue that didn't feel/read as natural are why it wasn't quite 5⭐️ for me. It was still quite good, though, and I enjoyed the book.
📚 If you liked: A Thousand Boy Kisses (Tillie Cole), Wild Eyes (Elsie Silver), or The Unwanted Wife (L. Steele) then I think you would enjoy Pretend With Me.
Thank you to @snapolitanowrites and @haylingbookstorm for the eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
#stephanienapolitano #pretendforme #arcteam #haylingbookstormpr #pr #currentlyreading #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #spicyromance #contemporary
📖 I enjoyed the plot with its twists and turns taking you on an emotional journey as well as a physical. There's more subterfuge than I expected, in a good way.
The third act was quite a surprise, in a good way. I didn't expect that bit of mystery/thriller-ish side quest, but found it interesting and fun.
✍️🏼 I enjoyed the writing. It reads as smooth. Most of the dialogue felt natural and like it fit the characters.
⏳️I thought the pacing was good, with well timed/placed flashbacks that enrich the story. However, there was one flashback that I skipped and came back to because I needed to know right now the real time info asap. 😂 I can't say if that was a me being impatient thing, or not.
👥 The characters are pretty well developed, with interesting side characters who I also found fun and interesting.
💞 Their romance is so sweet, so real. They go through the same trials and tribulations that many couples face in real life, and I appreciate the growth shown in how they handle those.
🌶 It's slow burn, so don't expect spice early on. I feel the spice is well done, well timed and placed.
📝 There were a few times it read as more telling than showing to me, and I didn't love that. I'm not a writer, so maybe there was a reason for it, or something. That and some dialogue that didn't feel/read as natural are why it wasn't quite 5⭐️ for me. It was still quite good, though, and I enjoyed the book.
📚 If you liked: A Thousand Boy Kisses (Tillie Cole), Wild Eyes (Elsie Silver), or The Unwanted Wife (L. Steele) then I think you would enjoy Pretend With Me.
Thank you to @snapolitanowrites and @haylingbookstorm for the eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
#stephanienapolitano #pretendforme #arcteam #haylingbookstormpr #pr #currentlyreading #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #spicyromance #contemporary
November 20, 2024
If you are looking for angst in your romance than this is the story for you! This book follows Matthew and Cassie. They met when they were kids when both were placed in the same foster home. They became fast friends and as they got older that friendship turned to romance. When Matthew gets adopted by a wealthy family in his teens, his relationship with Cassie starts to change. His new parents don’t want Cassie in his life, and now Matthew is living a life that Cassie can’t see herself a part of. They get into an argument and Cassie leaves.
10 years later, Matthew and Cassie are reunited when he shows up at a restaurant where she is a waitress. Matthew is so excited to see Cassie but Cassie is not as excited to see Matthew. They have to navigate so much in order to get back to each other. Matthew has to come to terms with the fact that his adoptive father isn’t the man he thought he was. Cassie has to learn to trust Matthew, she pushes him away so many times I was left thinking these two would never make their way back to each other. But the one thing that was evident throughout the whole book was that these two were meant for each other.
I liked how the author told the story of their childhood through flashbacks so we can really got an understanding of the connection of these two characters.
There was a lot going on in this book aside from the second chance romance and there was a third act that I was not expecting at all. There were several other characters in this story which created such a great found family. I could see any number of them getting their own story as well.
If you like second chance romance and childhood friends to lovers filled with angst and longing you should pick up this book.
*this book does handle some heavy topics so check CW before reading.
10 years later, Matthew and Cassie are reunited when he shows up at a restaurant where she is a waitress. Matthew is so excited to see Cassie but Cassie is not as excited to see Matthew. They have to navigate so much in order to get back to each other. Matthew has to come to terms with the fact that his adoptive father isn’t the man he thought he was. Cassie has to learn to trust Matthew, she pushes him away so many times I was left thinking these two would never make their way back to each other. But the one thing that was evident throughout the whole book was that these two were meant for each other.
I liked how the author told the story of their childhood through flashbacks so we can really got an understanding of the connection of these two characters.
There was a lot going on in this book aside from the second chance romance and there was a third act that I was not expecting at all. There were several other characters in this story which created such a great found family. I could see any number of them getting their own story as well.
If you like second chance romance and childhood friends to lovers filled with angst and longing you should pick up this book.
*this book does handle some heavy topics so check CW before reading.
November 20, 2024
Pretend for Me is a story of love and heartbreak, with themes of finding yourself and being true to yourself, and finding your chosen family. The story follows Cassie and Matthew, who met in foster care at 4 years old. Content warning: they suffered horrible abuse in the foster care system (some brief scenes on page during flashback chapters). Through those difficult years, they found support, love, and understanding in each other and were inseparable until an argument forced them apart. After ten years with no contact since that argument, they happen to cross paths again, bringing so many feelings and questions to the surface for both of them.
My heart broke for these two, and other side characters also in the foster system. It was heartwarming to see their growth and resilience through the book, though understandably they showed moments of immaturity and running/hiding from problems as well. I loved their chemistry and they had several spicy scenes, mostly later in the book. A very hard earned and much deserved HEA!
I can’t wait to see what author Stephanie Napolitano has in store for us next! Thank you so much for the ARC opportunity!
My heart broke for these two, and other side characters also in the foster system. It was heartwarming to see their growth and resilience through the book, though understandably they showed moments of immaturity and running/hiding from problems as well. I loved their chemistry and they had several spicy scenes, mostly later in the book. A very hard earned and much deserved HEA!
I can’t wait to see what author Stephanie Napolitano has in store for us next! Thank you so much for the ARC opportunity!
November 22, 2024
Would you still love someone you met as a child but 10 years later as an adult? This story is just that. Cassie and Matthew met in foster care as very young kids and only have each other. Matthew vows to protect Cassie with everything he’s got until he gets adopted by a wealthy family and is forced to leave Cassie behind. Matthew gives Cassie a gift but she leaves before she is able to see what Matthew wanted to tell her. Cassie leaves a note with Matthew’s adoptive parents for which Matthew never received. Flash forward 10 years when they reconnect unknowingly at a restaurant Cassie works at. All the truths and lies become apparent as they reconnect and try to rebuild a life together.
My review:
Such a sweet read. 🥹 This book touched me in so many ways. Lots of tears, lots of hope for Matthew and Cassie, yet lots of happiness. I can’t even begin to imagine what kids have to deal with going into foster care. The author pulled together a book filled with real life challenges that foster kids face in such a way that left me feeling emotional and grateful for the life that I have. I appreciate how the author ended the story with love on such a heavy-hearted topic. Very-well written! ❤️
My review:
Such a sweet read. 🥹 This book touched me in so many ways. Lots of tears, lots of hope for Matthew and Cassie, yet lots of happiness. I can’t even begin to imagine what kids have to deal with going into foster care. The author pulled together a book filled with real life challenges that foster kids face in such a way that left me feeling emotional and grateful for the life that I have. I appreciate how the author ended the story with love on such a heavy-hearted topic. Very-well written! ❤️
November 21, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Pretend for Me, Stephanie Napolitano's debut novel, offers a fresh and original take on second-chance romance with a compelling and emotional premise. The story follows Cassie and Matthew, two foster kids who fell in love as teenagers but were torn apart when Matthew was adopted into a wealthy family that treated Cassie poorly. The book picks up ten years later as they reconnect, both still in love but weighed down by heartbreak, resentment, and the shadows of their past.
What made this story stand out to me was the deep connection between Cassie and Matthew. They met at just four years old in the foster system, forming a strong, platonic bond before falling in love as teens. That deep childhood friendship and shared tragic history gave their relationship so much weight and emotional depth. The flashbacks to their time in foster care were especially powerful, offering insight into their backgrounds and struggles. These scenes made it easy to sympathize with them and root for their escape from those circumstances.
The side characters were also a great community to be around and added a lot of value to the story. I especially enjoyed the mystery element surrounding Matthew’s adoptive father -- it was a unique twist that kept the plot engaging and unpredictable.
That being said, there were a few aspects that didn’t fully land for me. The writing sometimes felt awkward, especially the dialogue, which came across as artificial at times. While the emotional tension between Cassie and Matthew was strong, I found myself wanting to see more of their personalities fleshed out -- that goes for the side characters too.
I also struggled a bit with Matthew’s entitlement toward Cassie—it didn’t sit well with me that he got mad at her for not wanting to be with him after everything she went through. Even though he wasn’t aware of his parents’ role in their fallout, this behavior gave me the ick. However, I do appreciate that the author didn’t shy away from creating flawed characters, which made their relationship feel raw and complex.
One of my biggest critiques is that the book tackled too many heavy topics, from SA and abusive relationships to grief and loss (definitely make sure to check out the trigger/content warnings before reading!). While these issues were treated with sensitivity and respect, there was so much packed in that not all of them could be explored in enough depth. It felt like the sheer volume of tragic backstories overwhelmed the narrative, and I think the book would have benefited from focusing on fewer issues to handle them more delicately.
Along with that, the ending felt a bit too rushed and perfect, especially compared to the heavy trauma and tragedy woven throughout the book. I wish there had been more pining and groveling on Cassie and Matthew's journey towards reconciliation, it would have made their reunion feel more satisfying and earned.
Additionally, some side plots towards the end added little to the story and were resolved too quickly or glossed over entirely. The pacing dragged a little in the beginning but became overly rushed toward the end, with too many subplots crammed into the final chapters.
Overall, I think this was a strong debut with an intriguing story and a lot of heart. The flashbacks and the unique premise really stood out to me, even though there were areas that could use more polish. The emotional intensity and originality of the plot kept me engaged, and I’m excited to see how Stephanie Napolitano grows as an author. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for her future work!
Thank you to Stephanie Napolitano for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Pretend for Me, Stephanie Napolitano's debut novel, offers a fresh and original take on second-chance romance with a compelling and emotional premise. The story follows Cassie and Matthew, two foster kids who fell in love as teenagers but were torn apart when Matthew was adopted into a wealthy family that treated Cassie poorly. The book picks up ten years later as they reconnect, both still in love but weighed down by heartbreak, resentment, and the shadows of their past.
What made this story stand out to me was the deep connection between Cassie and Matthew. They met at just four years old in the foster system, forming a strong, platonic bond before falling in love as teens. That deep childhood friendship and shared tragic history gave their relationship so much weight and emotional depth. The flashbacks to their time in foster care were especially powerful, offering insight into their backgrounds and struggles. These scenes made it easy to sympathize with them and root for their escape from those circumstances.
The side characters were also a great community to be around and added a lot of value to the story. I especially enjoyed the mystery element surrounding Matthew’s adoptive father -- it was a unique twist that kept the plot engaging and unpredictable.
That being said, there were a few aspects that didn’t fully land for me. The writing sometimes felt awkward, especially the dialogue, which came across as artificial at times. While the emotional tension between Cassie and Matthew was strong, I found myself wanting to see more of their personalities fleshed out -- that goes for the side characters too.
I also struggled a bit with Matthew’s entitlement toward Cassie—it didn’t sit well with me that he got mad at her for not wanting to be with him after everything she went through. Even though he wasn’t aware of his parents’ role in their fallout, this behavior gave me the ick. However, I do appreciate that the author didn’t shy away from creating flawed characters, which made their relationship feel raw and complex.
One of my biggest critiques is that the book tackled too many heavy topics, from SA and abusive relationships to grief and loss (definitely make sure to check out the trigger/content warnings before reading!). While these issues were treated with sensitivity and respect, there was so much packed in that not all of them could be explored in enough depth. It felt like the sheer volume of tragic backstories overwhelmed the narrative, and I think the book would have benefited from focusing on fewer issues to handle them more delicately.
Along with that, the ending felt a bit too rushed and perfect, especially compared to the heavy trauma and tragedy woven throughout the book. I wish there had been more pining and groveling on Cassie and Matthew's journey towards reconciliation, it would have made their reunion feel more satisfying and earned.
Additionally, some side plots towards the end added little to the story and were resolved too quickly or glossed over entirely. The pacing dragged a little in the beginning but became overly rushed toward the end, with too many subplots crammed into the final chapters.
Overall, I think this was a strong debut with an intriguing story and a lot of heart. The flashbacks and the unique premise really stood out to me, even though there were areas that could use more polish. The emotional intensity and originality of the plot kept me engaged, and I’m excited to see how Stephanie Napolitano grows as an author. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for her future work!
Thank you to Stephanie Napolitano for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 16, 2024
“Life would always be messy. But in that mess, you needed to find the real. Pretending and faking got you nowhere. If you couldn’t be who you really were, who could you be? Real wonders. Real life. Real love.”
Pretend for Me by Stephanie Napolitano is her debut novel.
What can you expect
💔 Second Chance
🏚️ Orphans/Foster Kids
👫Childhood friends to lovers you
🫂 Found Family
⏳ 10 Years Apart
💰 He Was Adopted by a Wealthy Family
👥 Dual POV
🔙 Flashbacks
4 🌟| 2 🌶️
Cassie and Matthew have known each other since they were four. Both grew up in foster care, enduring horrible experiences with families who were only interested in the paycheck and who physically and mentally abused them. At 14, Matthew was adopted by a wealthy family, but Cassie, desperate to stay with him, sabotaged potential adoptions for herself. However, she wasn’t happy about his adoption, disliked his new family, and his adoptive parents didn’t approve of her either. But despite everything, their love was there.
Ten years later, they cross paths again, and Matthew is determined to have a second chance. However, their complicated pasts and unresolved trauma still stand between them. Trigger warning: This story respectfully addresses sensitive topics, so keep that in mind before reading.
The side characters add depth to the story, and surprisingly, one of the most bitter ones, Bridgete, became one of my favorites, along with Audrey by the end. At times, I was so frustrated with Cassie, but I appreciated how both she and Matthew sought therapy to work through their traumas.
Thank you, Stephanie, for reaching out! If you enjoy stories with complicated pasts and meaningful character growth, add this one to your TBR!
Pretend for Me by Stephanie Napolitano is her debut novel.
What can you expect
💔 Second Chance
🏚️ Orphans/Foster Kids
👫Childhood friends to lovers you
🫂 Found Family
⏳ 10 Years Apart
💰 He Was Adopted by a Wealthy Family
👥 Dual POV
🔙 Flashbacks
4 🌟| 2 🌶️
Cassie and Matthew have known each other since they were four. Both grew up in foster care, enduring horrible experiences with families who were only interested in the paycheck and who physically and mentally abused them. At 14, Matthew was adopted by a wealthy family, but Cassie, desperate to stay with him, sabotaged potential adoptions for herself. However, she wasn’t happy about his adoption, disliked his new family, and his adoptive parents didn’t approve of her either. But despite everything, their love was there.
Ten years later, they cross paths again, and Matthew is determined to have a second chance. However, their complicated pasts and unresolved trauma still stand between them. Trigger warning: This story respectfully addresses sensitive topics, so keep that in mind before reading.
The side characters add depth to the story, and surprisingly, one of the most bitter ones, Bridgete, became one of my favorites, along with Audrey by the end. At times, I was so frustrated with Cassie, but I appreciated how both she and Matthew sought therapy to work through their traumas.
Thank you, Stephanie, for reaching out! If you enjoy stories with complicated pasts and meaningful character growth, add this one to your TBR!
November 18, 2024
Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Personal rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Matthew and Cassie grew up together in foster care. They learn to depend on each other as their traumatic upbringing being in foster care becomes apparent. Being adopted is all Matthew has ever wanted; to be loved by a family who he would be able to call his own. Unfortunately, this is not what Cassie wants. Her life evolves around her and Matthew having a future together. When Matthew gets adopted by a wealthy family, Cassie’s life flips upside down. Cassie ends up aging out of the foster system and creates a life of her own without Matthew. Little does Cassie know, Matthew had a surprise for her. If only she wouldn’t have left his gift behind.
Can a relationship be rebuilt 10 years later?
My Thoughts:
I love how the author wrote this book in the present and in the past. Flipping back and forth to tell the story of the love Matthew had for Cassie as a child and continue to have even as an adult. That’s true love!
As a twin myself, I can’t imagine being separated from her. The author does a good job writing about real life scenarios that could happen in the foster care setting. I may have cried while reading about these challenges and worries that some children have to encountered.
I really enjoyed this book! Chapter 30 has lots of spice 😉and the realization that Matthew and Cassie both need each other!
Personal rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Matthew and Cassie grew up together in foster care. They learn to depend on each other as their traumatic upbringing being in foster care becomes apparent. Being adopted is all Matthew has ever wanted; to be loved by a family who he would be able to call his own. Unfortunately, this is not what Cassie wants. Her life evolves around her and Matthew having a future together. When Matthew gets adopted by a wealthy family, Cassie’s life flips upside down. Cassie ends up aging out of the foster system and creates a life of her own without Matthew. Little does Cassie know, Matthew had a surprise for her. If only she wouldn’t have left his gift behind.
Can a relationship be rebuilt 10 years later?
My Thoughts:
I love how the author wrote this book in the present and in the past. Flipping back and forth to tell the story of the love Matthew had for Cassie as a child and continue to have even as an adult. That’s true love!
As a twin myself, I can’t imagine being separated from her. The author does a good job writing about real life scenarios that could happen in the foster care setting. I may have cried while reading about these challenges and worries that some children have to encountered.
I really enjoyed this book! Chapter 30 has lots of spice 😉and the realization that Matthew and Cassie both need each other!
November 20, 2024
4.25 ⭐
Tropes:
💔second chance
💔millionaire MC
💔both MC's growing up in foster care
It is clear that Matthew and Cassie were soulmates and have been, and always will be, the ones for each other. I really enjoyed the flashbacks to their youth where we are really able to see and understand how Matthew and Cassie's relationship got to what it was, and how it all fell apart. And to find out what we did about what ultimately tore them apart, all these years wasted could have easily been prevented with some better communication! Just seeing Cassie struggling to get her footing and place in the world and not being able to be in intimate with people, while Matthew just seeming to do just fine without her (well, kinda, not really) made me sad. I wouldn't go as far to say that the book is a romantic suspense, but there is definitely an underlying corruption plot that I think added to the story really well. A really well done full-circle moment :).
Thank you to Stephanie and Grey's Promotions for the eARC!
Tropes:
💔second chance
💔millionaire MC
💔both MC's growing up in foster care
It is clear that Matthew and Cassie were soulmates and have been, and always will be, the ones for each other. I really enjoyed the flashbacks to their youth where we are really able to see and understand how Matthew and Cassie's relationship got to what it was, and how it all fell apart. And to find out what we did about what ultimately tore them apart, all these years wasted could have easily been prevented with some better communication! Just seeing Cassie struggling to get her footing and place in the world and not being able to be in intimate with people, while Matthew just seeming to do just fine without her (well, kinda, not really) made me sad. I wouldn't go as far to say that the book is a romantic suspense, but there is definitely an underlying corruption plot that I think added to the story really well. A really well done full-circle moment :).
Thank you to Stephanie and Grey's Promotions for the eARC!
November 11, 2024
When I say I devoured this book in one sitting, it means this one was just too good... I am glad I wasn't disappointed.
Since 'Pretend For Me' is a fast paced book, it's a good read to get out of your reading slump.
When I started reading it, there were moments when I felt like 'I don't even know how this is gonna end' or 'if I am even gonna like it', but in the end I loved this masterpiece!! 🎀
This read was a 4 star read for my because there two things that I did not like. First one being, a few scenes felt unnecessary, secondly I didn't like the constant tears on Cassie's face.
What I liked about this book outweighed the dislikes 😩😩 Cassie's and Matthew's character development was my favorite of all. The way both of them respected each other's boundaries even when they wanted each other was too good to read!!! Matthew was such a gentleman that I fell in love with him too 😭
Apart from the development of Cassie and Matthew, the side characters' development was remarkable too... I especially loved the bond that developed between Matthew and Audrey. And of course I can't forget Bridget and Charlotte. Ooof these two were the cutest towards the end of the book 🥰. Oh and I'll tell you one thing, I LOVED reading Matthew's POV
The author did a great job in narrating the difficulties of growing in an orphanage. With the emotional vulnerabilities and their uncertainty for happiness in their future hit too close to heart.
The book is so well written that throughout the process of reading it I could feel the emotions of the characters. I felt like crying when they were, I laughed when they had fun. When a book does this, you know it's a really good one!!
**All in all this book has everything, from swoon-worthy moments to emotional confrontations to the description to each other in Dual POV, this book is worth every second you use to read it!!!**
Since 'Pretend For Me' is a fast paced book, it's a good read to get out of your reading slump.
When I started reading it, there were moments when I felt like 'I don't even know how this is gonna end' or 'if I am even gonna like it', but in the end I loved this masterpiece!! 🎀
This read was a 4 star read for my because there two things that I did not like. First one being, a few scenes felt unnecessary, secondly I didn't like the constant tears on Cassie's face.
What I liked about this book outweighed the dislikes 😩😩 Cassie's and Matthew's character development was my favorite of all. The way both of them respected each other's boundaries even when they wanted each other was too good to read!!! Matthew was such a gentleman that I fell in love with him too 😭
Apart from the development of Cassie and Matthew, the side characters' development was remarkable too... I especially loved the bond that developed between Matthew and Audrey. And of course I can't forget Bridget and Charlotte. Ooof these two were the cutest towards the end of the book 🥰. Oh and I'll tell you one thing, I LOVED reading Matthew's POV
The author did a great job in narrating the difficulties of growing in an orphanage. With the emotional vulnerabilities and their uncertainty for happiness in their future hit too close to heart.
The book is so well written that throughout the process of reading it I could feel the emotions of the characters. I felt like crying when they were, I laughed when they had fun. When a book does this, you know it's a really good one!!
**All in all this book has everything, from swoon-worthy moments to emotional confrontations to the description to each other in Dual POV, this book is worth every second you use to read it!!!**
November 17, 2024
What a journey! This book took me on a roller coaster of feelings without a shadow of a doubt. I felt so many emotions when reading this book which only made the experience even more beautiful.
This book tells us the story of Cassie and Matthew, who have known each other since they were young, and both were in an foster home, however due to some circumstances they end up following different paths and separating, however after 10 years they meet again and with this reunion comes the feelings they have always felt for each other and the desire to be together again is stronger than ever. However, it is not easy to overcome the past and that is why our Cassie and our Matthew end up going through some ups and downs until they get together.
This book really was a beautiful journey of genuine love, growth and development. Seeing this couple meet again, seeing them forgiving each other and overcoming the problems of the past was so exciting. Throughout the book I was rooting for them and for their happiness.
The author did an incredible job with this book, she managed to write a beautiful and exciting story, that touches anyone’s heart and that’s why she deserves all the recognition🤍
𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴:
Second chance
Found family
Foster kids reunited
It was always you
This book tells us the story of Cassie and Matthew, who have known each other since they were young, and both were in an foster home, however due to some circumstances they end up following different paths and separating, however after 10 years they meet again and with this reunion comes the feelings they have always felt for each other and the desire to be together again is stronger than ever. However, it is not easy to overcome the past and that is why our Cassie and our Matthew end up going through some ups and downs until they get together.
This book really was a beautiful journey of genuine love, growth and development. Seeing this couple meet again, seeing them forgiving each other and overcoming the problems of the past was so exciting. Throughout the book I was rooting for them and for their happiness.
The author did an incredible job with this book, she managed to write a beautiful and exciting story, that touches anyone’s heart and that’s why she deserves all the recognition🤍
𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴:
Second chance
Found family
Foster kids reunited
It was always you
November 18, 2024
Pretend For Me by Stephanie Napolitano New Release is out today!
Two kids who formed a tight bond in foster care are separated when one gets adopted and their lives are torn apart. Both broken hearted they unexpectedly reunite 10 years later. They are forced to acknowledge to themselves and each other what they did wrong and admit they still love each other after all this time.
A sad story addressing hardship for kids who fall into the system and how they overcome obstacles that stand in their way. How they clung to one another growning up and what happened when they were apart.
There is love, loss, betrayal, found family, spice and hope for these two as they admit to themselves what needs to be done right after all of the wrong.
This was a quick read and I enjoyed the story. If you like contemporary romance books with a bit of spice and some drama, give this book a go. Available now 📚
Tropes:
✨Dual POV W/Flashbacks
✨Spice
✨Found Family
✨Orphans/Foster Kids Reunited
✨Second Chance
✨It Was Always You
I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Two kids who formed a tight bond in foster care are separated when one gets adopted and their lives are torn apart. Both broken hearted they unexpectedly reunite 10 years later. They are forced to acknowledge to themselves and each other what they did wrong and admit they still love each other after all this time.
A sad story addressing hardship for kids who fall into the system and how they overcome obstacles that stand in their way. How they clung to one another growning up and what happened when they were apart.
There is love, loss, betrayal, found family, spice and hope for these two as they admit to themselves what needs to be done right after all of the wrong.
This was a quick read and I enjoyed the story. If you like contemporary romance books with a bit of spice and some drama, give this book a go. Available now 📚
Tropes:
✨Dual POV W/Flashbacks
✨Spice
✨Found Family
✨Orphans/Foster Kids Reunited
✨Second Chance
✨It Was Always You
I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review.
November 21, 2024
I was given a digital ARC of this book from the PR team at the beginning of the month and started reading it as soon as I finished my prior book. I would have been done sooner than this, but there's been a lot going on. Anyway... This book has a few spicy scenes that are just 🔥, I loved them all. That one scene in the beginning that I will not spoil was 🥵 and then those other two 🥵🥵... okay, I digress. If you want to know what I'm talking about, then you have to read it. But this book was more than spicy scenes. It was more than just about lost love and second chances. It was about the struggles someone could go through after being in the foster care system. It showed how much a life could change either for the better or worse. It was about redemption and forgiveness, not just for someone else but for yourself as well. Finding your true self. Being true to who you are.
November 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pretend For Me
Thank you so much @snapolitanowrites for sending the ARC of this book, I am so grateful!
Cassie has been dragged through life so far; unfamiliar with love and growing up within the foster care system, aging out only to be homeless, then finally settling somewhere, the last thing she needs is the pain of the past to return; a reminder of all she lost. Matthew has never found love like he did as a child, his heart is still hers. When attending a luncheon Matthew and Cassie come face to face after 10 years. All those feelings they have both tried to bury deep down burst back to life, and neither of them can resist.
Cassie to me was her own worst enemy, as we all are oftentimes, but she deserved so much more from her childhood. She didn’t believe she deserved much, doubted any good that came her way and was skeptical to love again. Her allowing herself each positive moment was so heartwarming to read.
Matthew believed he was trying his best, and he was with the information he was given. He is honest and fights for what is right at all times; and his unwavering adoration for the girl of his dreams is so romantic! I love a man that loves with all he has 😍
These two main characters collide with a bang; sparks fly, chemistry ignites and feelings return. People who know each other to the core, where time does not diminish their love for the other…a real second chance romance I was rooting for.
Side characters add so much to the story also, I’d love to see if Audrey and Henry could have a book 👀
Plenty of plot is involved, twists and turns, surprise betrayals and devastating moments will keep you glued to the book, unable to put it down.
Another great read! For adult readers only!
Pretend For Me
Thank you so much @snapolitanowrites for sending the ARC of this book, I am so grateful!
Cassie has been dragged through life so far; unfamiliar with love and growing up within the foster care system, aging out only to be homeless, then finally settling somewhere, the last thing she needs is the pain of the past to return; a reminder of all she lost. Matthew has never found love like he did as a child, his heart is still hers. When attending a luncheon Matthew and Cassie come face to face after 10 years. All those feelings they have both tried to bury deep down burst back to life, and neither of them can resist.
Cassie to me was her own worst enemy, as we all are oftentimes, but she deserved so much more from her childhood. She didn’t believe she deserved much, doubted any good that came her way and was skeptical to love again. Her allowing herself each positive moment was so heartwarming to read.
Matthew believed he was trying his best, and he was with the information he was given. He is honest and fights for what is right at all times; and his unwavering adoration for the girl of his dreams is so romantic! I love a man that loves with all he has 😍
These two main characters collide with a bang; sparks fly, chemistry ignites and feelings return. People who know each other to the core, where time does not diminish their love for the other…a real second chance romance I was rooting for.
Side characters add so much to the story also, I’d love to see if Audrey and Henry could have a book 👀
Plenty of plot is involved, twists and turns, surprise betrayals and devastating moments will keep you glued to the book, unable to put it down.
Another great read! For adult readers only!
November 18, 2024
This is a debut from this author, and she has done an impressive job in weaving this storyline.
Cassie and Matthew grew up in the first system and became soulmates since they were 4 years old when they ended up in the same home, and all she understandably wanted was a family on her own. Now 10-years later fate destines Cassie and Matthew to cross paths again, and the connection between them is still intense.
This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with found family, first love, second chances, friendships, humor, witty banter, making choices, unpredictable chemistry, engaging and realistic characters, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
Cassie and Matthew grew up in the first system and became soulmates since they were 4 years old when they ended up in the same home, and all she understandably wanted was a family on her own. Now 10-years later fate destines Cassie and Matthew to cross paths again, and the connection between them is still intense.
This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with found family, first love, second chances, friendships, humor, witty banter, making choices, unpredictable chemistry, engaging and realistic characters, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
November 18, 2024
3.5⭐️
Pretend for Me tells the emotional story of Cassie and Matthew, two characters who grew up in foster care and shared a deep bond from childhood. Their connection was severed when Matthew was adopted, leaving Cassie behind. A decade later, fate brings them back together, stirring up old memories and proving that their love never truly faded.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The dual POV added so much depth, giving readers insight into both Cassie and Matthew’s emotions and perspectives in key moments. It was heartwarming to see how, even after ten years apart, they never stopped holding onto the love they had for each other. Watching them navigate their feelings and rebuild their relationship was truly satisfying.
If you’re a fan of dual POVs, found family, and second chance romance, this book is a must read.
Pretend for Me tells the emotional story of Cassie and Matthew, two characters who grew up in foster care and shared a deep bond from childhood. Their connection was severed when Matthew was adopted, leaving Cassie behind. A decade later, fate brings them back together, stirring up old memories and proving that their love never truly faded.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The dual POV added so much depth, giving readers insight into both Cassie and Matthew’s emotions and perspectives in key moments. It was heartwarming to see how, even after ten years apart, they never stopped holding onto the love they had for each other. Watching them navigate their feelings and rebuild their relationship was truly satisfying.
If you’re a fan of dual POVs, found family, and second chance romance, this book is a must read.
November 20, 2024
A beautiful story
Stephanie Napolitano’s Pretend for Me is a moving tale of love, identity, and second chances. Cassie, longing for family, and Matthew, craving recognition, are childhood sweethearts torn apart by their individual pursuits. A decade later, fate forces them to confront old wounds and the blurred lines between real and pretend in their relationship. Napolitano’s evocative writing and deeply relatable characters shine, though the pacing occasionally drags, and some plot points feel predictable. Still, this emotional journey of reconnection and healing is compelling and heartfelt. Perfect for fans of tender, second-chance romances.
Stephanie Napolitano’s Pretend for Me is a moving tale of love, identity, and second chances. Cassie, longing for family, and Matthew, craving recognition, are childhood sweethearts torn apart by their individual pursuits. A decade later, fate forces them to confront old wounds and the blurred lines between real and pretend in their relationship. Napolitano’s evocative writing and deeply relatable characters shine, though the pacing occasionally drags, and some plot points feel predictable. Still, this emotional journey of reconnection and healing is compelling and heartfelt. Perfect for fans of tender, second-chance romances.
November 5, 2024
Pretend For Me literally left me speechless. This book had me hooked from the very beginning. I cried literal tears as I fell in love with the story and the characters.
💜Second Chance
💜Found Family
💜Foster Kids reunited
💜Dual POV
💜it was always you
The dual POV and the time jumping to explain their past together made this book so hard to put down. If I didn't have to work i could have easily read it in one sitting.
The character development for both Cassie and Matthew was beautiful. I loved how once they finally saw the other after 10 years about their lives continued to be magnets to each other.
I also really enjoyed Matthew's POV a lot. I loved knowing from the very beginning that he still thought of her and wanted her and missed her. Then when it flipped back to when they were kids and all he wanted to do was protect her and slowly that turned into loving each other.
I loved how strong and independent Cassie is. She had learned to care for herself when she aged out and life was hard but she made the best of it when she could. seeing her have real fears of letting herself love just felt so raw and real I couldn't help but hope she would finally get her HEA no matter what. I loved the friendship she has with Audrey and eventually Bridget. And I loved her getting to have her Art in an exhibit eventually when life finally was in her favor.
The love that Cassie and Matthew had (and kept) for each other over the years was beautiful. I loved every second of them finding their way back to each other and learning to love again.
I adored the side characters to! Audrey, Holden, Bridget, and Charlotte made this book feel more real and I loved getting to see more of their friendships and those dynamics mixed into the actual story.
Without spoiling it, i was say the last few chapters had me holding on for dear life and crying. i wasn't anticipating what happened but oh my goodness did it work with the story.
Overall, this was an amazing read! Definitely something you need to add to your TBR! it was so good!!
💜Second Chance
💜Found Family
💜Foster Kids reunited
💜Dual POV
💜it was always you
The dual POV and the time jumping to explain their past together made this book so hard to put down. If I didn't have to work i could have easily read it in one sitting.
The character development for both Cassie and Matthew was beautiful. I loved how once they finally saw the other after 10 years about their lives continued to be magnets to each other.
I also really enjoyed Matthew's POV a lot. I loved knowing from the very beginning that he still thought of her and wanted her and missed her. Then when it flipped back to when they were kids and all he wanted to do was protect her and slowly that turned into loving each other.
I loved how strong and independent Cassie is. She had learned to care for herself when she aged out and life was hard but she made the best of it when she could. seeing her have real fears of letting herself love just felt so raw and real I couldn't help but hope she would finally get her HEA no matter what. I loved the friendship she has with Audrey and eventually Bridget. And I loved her getting to have her Art in an exhibit eventually when life finally was in her favor.
The love that Cassie and Matthew had (and kept) for each other over the years was beautiful. I loved every second of them finding their way back to each other and learning to love again.
I adored the side characters to! Audrey, Holden, Bridget, and Charlotte made this book feel more real and I loved getting to see more of their friendships and those dynamics mixed into the actual story.
Without spoiling it, i was say the last few chapters had me holding on for dear life and crying. i wasn't anticipating what happened but oh my goodness did it work with the story.
Overall, this was an amazing read! Definitely something you need to add to your TBR! it was so good!!
November 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
If you like books with more plot then spice, then this book is for you! It has the perfect amount of spice, the best plot and incredible character building!
Pretend for Me is a debut novel and you would never be able to tell! @snapolitanowrites has a way with words and story building! I was feeling all the emotions from not only the main character but even the side ones. This novel is the epitome of second chance, and childhood friends to lovers! It was so well done!
I would absolutely recommend reading this one!
Thank you so much @snapolitanowrites & @greyspromo for the ARC!
🌶️🌶️
If you like books with more plot then spice, then this book is for you! It has the perfect amount of spice, the best plot and incredible character building!
Pretend for Me is a debut novel and you would never be able to tell! @snapolitanowrites has a way with words and story building! I was feeling all the emotions from not only the main character but even the side ones. This novel is the epitome of second chance, and childhood friends to lovers! It was so well done!
I would absolutely recommend reading this one!
Thank you so much @snapolitanowrites & @greyspromo for the ARC!
November 17, 2024
ARC Review
Wauw. This was a story that broke my heart more than once. All the heartache for both Cassie and Matthew, but also for Audrey and Charlotte, really gave me the full rollercoaster experience.
I was hooked from the beginning and finished the entire book in less than 24 hours, and Will probably read it again at some point.
I really loved following Cassie and Matthew and their ups and downs, right from when they were children and through adulthood. I felt for them through it all it.
Really a great book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wauw. This was a story that broke my heart more than once. All the heartache for both Cassie and Matthew, but also for Audrey and Charlotte, really gave me the full rollercoaster experience.
I was hooked from the beginning and finished the entire book in less than 24 hours, and Will probably read it again at some point.
I really loved following Cassie and Matthew and their ups and downs, right from when they were children and through adulthood. I felt for them through it all it.
Really a great book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 18, 2024
4.25⭐️
Ok, I actually loved this. I feel like this story could 100% happen in real life. I love the references to the Velventeen Rabbit book. Sometimes, when you feel all is lost, there are little tidbits that bring hope. Considering the themes, this book does a good job instilling in its readers to always be true to yourself, and you can over come alot with love & forgiveness. Don't let your past define you. It turns out that most everyone has some sort of trauma, and you are not alone.
Ok, I actually loved this. I feel like this story could 100% happen in real life. I love the references to the Velventeen Rabbit book. Sometimes, when you feel all is lost, there are little tidbits that bring hope. Considering the themes, this book does a good job instilling in its readers to always be true to yourself, and you can over come alot with love & forgiveness. Don't let your past define you. It turns out that most everyone has some sort of trauma, and you are not alone.
November 18, 2024
I really enjoyed this! Right out of the gates I was getting tummy flutters and was fully invested in this story. I love that it brought to light some really difficult topics and a heartbreaking relationship that had to endure some real traumas but she wrote the scenes so well. It was such a beautiful story! This was a debut novel and truly was so well done!
🌟 Foster siblings
🌟 Second Chance Romance
🌟 Found family
🌟 Dual POV
🌟 Each others’ firsts for so many things
🌟 10 years apart before reconnected
🌟 Trauma healing
🌟 Foster siblings
🌟 Second Chance Romance
🌟 Found family
🌟 Dual POV
🌟 Each others’ firsts for so many things
🌟 10 years apart before reconnected
🌟 Trauma healing
November 21, 2024
This story is about a second chance at love, at life, at really living!
Matthew & Cassie were in foster care together, you’ll see flashbacks to their time as children throughout the book, this added nicely to the plot line & gave context to their current day.
The unexpected plot twists throughout the book, were super well done, not once was I able to predict what would come next!
The side characters were developed well & added to the storyline expertly. Audrey & her cats, just purr-fection!
I can normally see where books are going to end up while reading, but I was not able to for see anything while reading book.. minus the HEA! Duh!
The spice was there, but minimal compared to the story line. It was weaved into the book in a deliberate & alluring way.
Well done! I still cannot believe this is the first book written by this author. 🤯
I highly recommend you check it out!!
Matthew & Cassie were in foster care together, you’ll see flashbacks to their time as children throughout the book, this added nicely to the plot line & gave context to their current day.
The unexpected plot twists throughout the book, were super well done, not once was I able to predict what would come next!
The side characters were developed well & added to the storyline expertly. Audrey & her cats, just purr-fection!
I can normally see where books are going to end up while reading, but I was not able to for see anything while reading book.. minus the HEA! Duh!
The spice was there, but minimal compared to the story line. It was weaved into the book in a deliberate & alluring way.
Well done! I still cannot believe this is the first book written by this author. 🤯
I highly recommend you check it out!!
November 10, 2024
Cassie and Matthew’s second chance romance was filled with emotion. They both had such a troubled shared past but were able to overcome everything together.
I liked the found family aspect and enjoyed the cast of secondary characters. I particularly liked that Matthew and Audrey ended up so close.
It was nice to see the inclusion of both Matthew and Cassie going to therapy so that they could build a strong foundation for their future.
I also really enjoyed how The Velveteen Rabbit played such a big part in their story over the years.
There were a couple of moments that felt a little repetitive to me, but it didn’t take away from the story, and I did enjoy the book as a whole.
I liked the found family aspect and enjoyed the cast of secondary characters. I particularly liked that Matthew and Audrey ended up so close.
It was nice to see the inclusion of both Matthew and Cassie going to therapy so that they could build a strong foundation for their future.
I also really enjoyed how The Velveteen Rabbit played such a big part in their story over the years.
There were a couple of moments that felt a little repetitive to me, but it didn’t take away from the story, and I did enjoy the book as a whole.
November 15, 2024
Wow truly blown away that this is a first time author.
Love the themes of real and pretend.
Audrey was my favorite. Star of the show!!
We need spin offs
Love the themes of real and pretend.
Audrey was my favorite. Star of the show!!
We need spin offs
November 7, 2024
this is totally a new author to me and I must say I was drawn to the book even more as I kept reading. Now this probably will come with some trigger Warnings but please don't let that sway you from reading this.
Matthew and Cassie well pretty much grew up on foster care and well developed thier own bond. though these 2 didn't know what they were creating would eventually be true. though it started off alot like pretend which caused them to go different ways till they found each other again years down the road.
this story is about love found,lost, and reconnecting but about they came forward in the bad and created a new stronger connection and love.
I hope to see more from this author in the future
Matthew and Cassie well pretty much grew up on foster care and well developed thier own bond. though these 2 didn't know what they were creating would eventually be true. though it started off alot like pretend which caused them to go different ways till they found each other again years down the road.
this story is about love found,lost, and reconnecting but about they came forward in the bad and created a new stronger connection and love.
I hope to see more from this author in the future
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