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Eden Falls Academy #1
The Charade
My math tutor has one rule: he doesn’t date the girls he tutors at our private school.
But a fake relationship that’s beneficial to us both? That’s a different story.
Our agreement helps Carter get revenge on his ex while it helps me hide the real reason we’re spending so much time together. Win-win.
Plus, flirting with the hottest guy at school is kind of fun.
As long as the feelings stay as fake as the show we’re putting on, there shouldn’t be a problem. Right?
The Charade is a forbidden romance about the new girl and the guy who everyone sees as untouchable.
But a fake relationship that’s beneficial to us both? That’s a different story.
Our agreement helps Carter get revenge on his ex while it helps me hide the real reason we’re spending so much time together. Win-win.
Plus, flirting with the hottest guy at school is kind of fun.
As long as the feelings stay as fake as the show we’re putting on, there shouldn’t be a problem. Right?
The Charade is a forbidden romance about the new girl and the guy who everyone sees as untouchable.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2021
922 people are currently reading
7244 people want to read
About the author
Judy Corry
33 books1,392 followersJudy Corry is the USA Today Bestselling Author of YA and Contemporary Romance. She writes romance because she can't get enough of the feeling of falling in love. She's known for writing heart-pounding kisses, endearing characters, and hard-won happily ever afters.
She lives in Southern Utah with the boy who took her to Prom, their four amazing kids, and two dogs. She's addicted to love stories, chai latte's and dark chocolate.
She is represented by Lane Heymont at The Tobias Agency.
Keep updated with Judy and her books here ➜ https://subscribepage.com/judycorry
Find her on Instagram and TikTok: @authorjudycorry
She lives in Southern Utah with the boy who took her to Prom, their four amazing kids, and two dogs. She's addicted to love stories, chai latte's and dark chocolate.
She is represented by Lane Heymont at The Tobias Agency.
Keep updated with Judy and her books here ➜ https://subscribepage.com/judycorry
Find her on Instagram and TikTok: @authorjudycorry
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 368 reviews
September 9, 2021
I know, I give every book I write 5 stars. But this book really is one of my favorites that I've ever written. I let myself have fun with Ava and Carter and hanging out with them every day for a few months was a true pleasure.
I love Ava's sassiness and how the things she sometimes said surprised even me--and yeah, I'm the one who wrote the book. (Writing a book is an interesting process ya'll. The characters make me do things I hadn't planned on all the time.)
And I loved Carter with all of his hot, aloofness. He and Ava are so different from each other, but the dynamic they have together is one of my favorite things.
And the fireworks between them...yeah, I didn't hold back there now did I? ;) The book is technically still clean, but I loved being able to make the kisses slightly steamier than in my previous books. It's the heat level I've always wanted to write but didn't quite dare do and I think finally allowing myself to write what I wanted to write after all these years is also another reason why I enjoyed writing this book so much.
And I know that twist has caused a few heart attacks so far...but I couldn't help myself. I've been dying to write that trope for 10 years so I just had to do it.
Anyway, this isn't really a review, but more like me just saying how much fun I had writing this story. I'm so excited to continue this series and have Ava and Carter pop up here and there.
Happy reading!
I love Ava's sassiness and how the things she sometimes said surprised even me--and yeah, I'm the one who wrote the book. (Writing a book is an interesting process ya'll. The characters make me do things I hadn't planned on all the time.)
And I loved Carter with all of his hot, aloofness. He and Ava are so different from each other, but the dynamic they have together is one of my favorite things.
And the fireworks between them...yeah, I didn't hold back there now did I? ;) The book is technically still clean, but I loved being able to make the kisses slightly steamier than in my previous books. It's the heat level I've always wanted to write but didn't quite dare do and I think finally allowing myself to write what I wanted to write after all these years is also another reason why I enjoyed writing this book so much.
And I know that twist has caused a few heart attacks so far...but I couldn't help myself. I've been dying to write that trope for 10 years so I just had to do it.
Anyway, this isn't really a review, but more like me just saying how much fun I had writing this story. I'm so excited to continue this series and have Ava and Carter pop up here and there.
Happy reading!
April 27, 2022
“I don’t care that we are potentially siblings I want to be with you” remains the worst trope in history
May 22, 2021
I honestly don’t even know how to review this book?! The first 3/4 was a 4 star book. The last was about a 2. *spoiler* the opposition to break them up is they might be brother and sister?!! Ew, ew, ew, ew!! That is the worst way to pull a couple apart. I’ve read that story line before and hated it then too. Because the couple is so in love and they just have to make out one more time even thought they don’t know if they are truly siblings. Icky!
I know we know that they aren’t really siblings. But they don’t know... just not my kind of plot line.
I know we know that they aren’t really siblings. But they don’t know... just not my kind of plot line.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2024
No. No. No. Whyyyy did you pull a mortal instruments on us?!
👏🏼Stop👏🏼 doing 👏🏼 the 👏🏼 sibling 👏🏼 scare 👏🏼 with 👏🏼 love 👏🏼 interests👏🏼
It was super cute and fun until then. But I will never feel cute about it again after that kinda nasty twist.
👏🏼Stop👏🏼 doing 👏🏼 the 👏🏼 sibling 👏🏼 scare 👏🏼 with 👏🏼 love 👏🏼 interests👏🏼
It was super cute and fun until then. But I will never feel cute about it again after that kinda nasty twist.
May 16, 2021
Can't stop thinking about it
(4.5 Stars) Eden Falls is a mystical place, especially when twins Ava and Elyse find themselves attending their senior year there at a boarding school. Lifelong secrets threaten to spill and a fake romance emerges. Told in alternating points-of-view, this story captured me and twisted my heart from start to finish, but especially when a love becomes forbidden.
Corry is a talented genius when it comes to infusing the lighter parts of teen life with the heavy, angsty drama that is always lurking in the shadows. I love how she introduces real-life issues to her characters lives and allows the reader to wade through them with the protagonists, together. Her writing style is engaging, memorable, and raw, and I just can't devour her words fast enough.
Though Ava and Elyse are both great characters, it's Ava's head the reader enters. She struggles with school, but works hard and has such a fun, sassy, flirty personality. We are also treated to Carter's point-of-view and he's a total contradiction. There are some themes and issues that seemed more adult than young adult in this book, but it did help me to know the characters were seniors in high school and some of them had even turned 18. I enjoyed meeting their new friends and classmates and I can't tell you how excited I am to delve into more of their lives in future books!
Content Warning: As I mentioned before, this story is real and raw, and while I know a lot of teens are sexually active, it's not something I'm a fan of in books. While the reader doesn't see it happen, it's talked about and implied. Otherwise, there's just kissing/making out.
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
(4.5 Stars) Eden Falls is a mystical place, especially when twins Ava and Elyse find themselves attending their senior year there at a boarding school. Lifelong secrets threaten to spill and a fake romance emerges. Told in alternating points-of-view, this story captured me and twisted my heart from start to finish, but especially when a love becomes forbidden.
Corry is a talented genius when it comes to infusing the lighter parts of teen life with the heavy, angsty drama that is always lurking in the shadows. I love how she introduces real-life issues to her characters lives and allows the reader to wade through them with the protagonists, together. Her writing style is engaging, memorable, and raw, and I just can't devour her words fast enough.
Though Ava and Elyse are both great characters, it's Ava's head the reader enters. She struggles with school, but works hard and has such a fun, sassy, flirty personality. We are also treated to Carter's point-of-view and he's a total contradiction. There are some themes and issues that seemed more adult than young adult in this book, but it did help me to know the characters were seniors in high school and some of them had even turned 18. I enjoyed meeting their new friends and classmates and I can't tell you how excited I am to delve into more of their lives in future books!
Content Warning: As I mentioned before, this story is real and raw, and while I know a lot of teens are sexually active, it's not something I'm a fan of in books. While the reader doesn't see it happen, it's talked about and implied. Otherwise, there's just kissing/making out.
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
June 2, 2022
This book was so nasty it gives city of glass they found out they were probs siblings and kept whinging about how hot the other was and how sad it was they were related and then WHILE THEY KNRW THERE WAS A POSSIBILITY of them being related they fully made out like girly said this is a crime as if it wasn’t gross too. I hate how also they have no objection to the LITERAL incest like they’re SIBLINGS, only that it was illegal. I only finished it bc I read the other reviews and knew they weren’t related. Also, if u ignore the incest, it was so unrealistic he was like ew I will not date and I hate women and then one second later he’s fully in love with her
September 18, 2021
This was a fantastic story. It deals with fresh starts and new beginnings and how daunting this can be for anyone no matter how confident they seem to be.
It dealt with two incredible individuals, Ava who is sassy, confident and flirty. My favourite type of heroines and we have our tall, dark-haired, muscles Carter who can act like an arrogant jerk but is actually a softie and anxious person.
I loved how Judy Corry deals with their differences and how they come together and work things out between them. I really liked how their insecurities and mental health were dealt with respect and such realism. It was a masterpiece that I really enjoyed reading and it was what I needed right now.
Their love was beautiful to witness. To see them over the moon for each other but also how they dealt with the hurdles that came along the way. I was surprised by this forbidden romance trope but it was enjoyable to watch it all unfold in the end!
Loved it and looking forward to the next one in the series!
Received a copy from the author herself for an honest review and this does not affect my review or rating of the book thank you!
It dealt with two incredible individuals, Ava who is sassy, confident and flirty. My favourite type of heroines and we have our tall, dark-haired, muscles Carter who can act like an arrogant jerk but is actually a softie and anxious person.
I loved how Judy Corry deals with their differences and how they come together and work things out between them. I really liked how their insecurities and mental health were dealt with respect and such realism. It was a masterpiece that I really enjoyed reading and it was what I needed right now.
Their love was beautiful to witness. To see them over the moon for each other but also how they dealt with the hurdles that came along the way. I was surprised by this forbidden romance trope but it was enjoyable to watch it all unfold in the end!
Loved it and looking forward to the next one in the series!
Received a copy from the author herself for an honest review and this does not affect my review or rating of the book thank you!
August 14, 2021
Well written and —mostly— funny, but the plot of the last third was... unexpected, silly and just too much.
May 19, 2021
Rating - 3.5 stars
The plot was Ca - ra - zy!!
Srsly - never heard of anything like it...
And there sure were plenty of swoon-worthy kisses...
And it sure was interesting...
Nice hearing about Ridgewater again and the mention of the Charmicaels (not sure if I'm spelling this right!) - I wonder if we get to see them again!
I only rated this slightly low (well for me that's low!) coz Ava wasn't very relatable and I feel like we got to know her more than we did Carter... Carter was acc my favourite character - you see, I love reading abt characters that are relatable, and I could totally relate to his personality - except thankfully I don't have that depressing past haunting me... Ava on the other hand - I really didn't like her... maybe it's coz the last thing I'd do was skip out on my badly needed maths classes to make out with my tutor... or just fall head over heels for someone I've just met... idk, I mean it's not even her with the bad past, it's her mum... and her mum's made sure she didn't have that... I loved how the plot ended so sweetly and we sure had some tense moments at the climax... just that I liked only few of the characters - ie Carter & Cambrielle + maybe Elyse tho we hardly see her... I mean so much for their "telepathic" twin relationship if they hardly are around each other... Oh well...
Still, really enjoyed reading this book - never read anything like it, super original without all the cliched themes that sometimes get really annoying!
Also, can't wait to read the next book about Cambrielle and Mack! I'm guessing the one after that's gonna be centred on Scarlett and Hunter?? Or maybe Nash and Elyse?? Idk... plenty of options:)
The plot was Ca - ra - zy!!
Srsly - never heard of anything like it...
And there sure were plenty of swoon-worthy kisses...
And it sure was interesting...
Nice hearing about Ridgewater again and the mention of the Charmicaels (not sure if I'm spelling this right!) - I wonder if we get to see them again!
I only rated this slightly low (well for me that's low!) coz Ava wasn't very relatable and I feel like we got to know her more than we did Carter... Carter was acc my favourite character - you see, I love reading abt characters that are relatable, and I could totally relate to his personality - except thankfully I don't have that depressing past haunting me... Ava on the other hand - I really didn't like her... maybe it's coz the last thing I'd do was skip out on my badly needed maths classes to make out with my tutor... or just fall head over heels for someone I've just met... idk, I mean it's not even her with the bad past, it's her mum... and her mum's made sure she didn't have that... I loved how the plot ended so sweetly and we sure had some tense moments at the climax... just that I liked only few of the characters - ie Carter & Cambrielle + maybe Elyse tho we hardly see her... I mean so much for their "telepathic" twin relationship if they hardly are around each other... Oh well...
Still, really enjoyed reading this book - never read anything like it, super original without all the cliched themes that sometimes get really annoying!
Also, can't wait to read the next book about Cambrielle and Mack! I'm guessing the one after that's gonna be centred on Scarlett and Hunter?? Or maybe Nash and Elyse?? Idk... plenty of options:)
May 21, 2021
This is the second review on a book I've ever written, this book deserves more than five stars! I stayed up late the last 3 nights to read it and I finished it at 10:40pm tonight! I often found myself day dreaming in class about what had happened in the book! I. Loved. This. Book. I loved the writing style, the forbidden love trope, the twist at the end! This book is my new favorite book of all time and Judy Corry is my new favorite author!!!!
May 24, 2025
it feels wrong to rate this three stars when there was a chance that they were half-siblings and just didn’t care but I swear the first part was cute
April 7, 2023
what on the ever-loving hell did I just read?
this book really said: incest but make it a conflict. seriously, using incest as the conflict is the dumbest thing to do. AND both the main characters have the audacity to 'overlook' the possibility that they might be related, and commit this crime.
bro wtf?
onto some relatively minor stuff, we don't actually get to see how they fell for each other? we only know that Carter and Ava spent some time together, then they both fell for each other. this is the most classic case of telling, not showing.
or actually, maybe we did get to see how they fell in love, but I simply forgot about it. nonetheless, that goes to show how unremarkable this book was to me.
that being said, I will go onto read Cambrielle and Mack's book next, because the epilogue really intrigued me. hopefully their book will be better than this.
this book really said: incest but make it a conflict. seriously, using incest as the conflict is the dumbest thing to do. AND both the main characters have the audacity to 'overlook' the possibility that they might be related, and commit this crime.
bro wtf?
onto some relatively minor stuff, we don't actually get to see how they fell for each other? we only know that Carter and Ava spent some time together, then they both fell for each other. this is the most classic case of telling, not showing.
or actually, maybe we did get to see how they fell in love, but I simply forgot about it. nonetheless, that goes to show how unremarkable this book was to me.
that being said, I will go onto read Cambrielle and Mack's book next, because the epilogue really intrigued me. hopefully their book will be better than this.
May 9, 2021
4,5 stars
I was holding my breath and reading as fast I could because I needed to see how it would end! The Charade was a sweet and fun read with compelling characters. The Charade is the first book in Judy Corry’s new series, Eden Falls Academy. First I have to say that I love the cover, it is so pretty! Okay, now for the review.
Carter lives his life according to his schedule, everything is planned, everything is scheduled. But Ava changes everything. Ava and her twin find themselves the new kids at Eden Academy. In order to go to Eden Academy, Ava has to keep her grades up and getting a math tutor is part of that agreement. Carter has one rule, he doesn’t date the girls he tutors. But Ava and Carter decide on a mutually beneficial charade. They pretend to be a couple so that Carter can get revenge on his ex, and it helps Ava keep the real reason she is meeting with Carter on the down low. But as they spend more time together, can their relationship grow from fake to real
Ava was not really like me, but she was a lot of fun! When I first started the book, I wasn't sure how I felt about her. But she quickly grew on me. She was blunt, but she was kind. She was impulsive, but she was thoughtful. I really loved how she could be herself with Carter because of their charade. However, she was also trying to protect herself from falling for him. Putting herself out there for Carter is a risk that Ava will have to take. Will the risk be worth it?
Oh Carter, sweet sweet Carter. I liked him once I saw his side, basically from the beginning. At first he seems kind of stuck up, but as you get to know him you understand him better. He was very orderly and kind of awkward, but he was also considerate of others. I liked reading about him opening up to Ava and learning how to let go of control. Life had not always been kind to him and he was used to having to protect himself. But Ava made him want to lose control and be free. Will their relationship last, can something start as a charade become real?
Carter and Ava had such a fun relationship. I liked reading about them falling in love and letting themselves hope for something more. They were walking a thin line between real and fake, and it was adorable to see then interacting.
I had read other books by Corry and this one was so good! It was such a great start to a new series. I am looking forward to the next book! The Charade was a closed door romance, and I would recommend it to teenagers. I would give this warning, knowing one of my sisters I would not recommend it to her because it would be too steamy. However, I know that it is different for everyone. Nonetheless, The Charade was an amazing book and I really enjoyed it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
I was holding my breath and reading as fast I could because I needed to see how it would end! The Charade was a sweet and fun read with compelling characters. The Charade is the first book in Judy Corry’s new series, Eden Falls Academy. First I have to say that I love the cover, it is so pretty! Okay, now for the review.
Carter lives his life according to his schedule, everything is planned, everything is scheduled. But Ava changes everything. Ava and her twin find themselves the new kids at Eden Academy. In order to go to Eden Academy, Ava has to keep her grades up and getting a math tutor is part of that agreement. Carter has one rule, he doesn’t date the girls he tutors. But Ava and Carter decide on a mutually beneficial charade. They pretend to be a couple so that Carter can get revenge on his ex, and it helps Ava keep the real reason she is meeting with Carter on the down low. But as they spend more time together, can their relationship grow from fake to real
Ava was not really like me, but she was a lot of fun! When I first started the book, I wasn't sure how I felt about her. But she quickly grew on me. She was blunt, but she was kind. She was impulsive, but she was thoughtful. I really loved how she could be herself with Carter because of their charade. However, she was also trying to protect herself from falling for him. Putting herself out there for Carter is a risk that Ava will have to take. Will the risk be worth it?
Oh Carter, sweet sweet Carter. I liked him once I saw his side, basically from the beginning. At first he seems kind of stuck up, but as you get to know him you understand him better. He was very orderly and kind of awkward, but he was also considerate of others. I liked reading about him opening up to Ava and learning how to let go of control. Life had not always been kind to him and he was used to having to protect himself. But Ava made him want to lose control and be free. Will their relationship last, can something start as a charade become real?
Carter and Ava had such a fun relationship. I liked reading about them falling in love and letting themselves hope for something more. They were walking a thin line between real and fake, and it was adorable to see then interacting.
I had read other books by Corry and this one was so good! It was such a great start to a new series. I am looking forward to the next book! The Charade was a closed door romance, and I would recommend it to teenagers. I would give this warning, knowing one of my sisters I would not recommend it to her because it would be too steamy. However, I know that it is different for everyone. Nonetheless, The Charade was an amazing book and I really enjoyed it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
May 16, 2021
Told through dual POVs,
The Charade
tells the story of Ava Cohen who is set to attend Eden Falls Academy boarding school with her twin sister Elyse for their final year of high school.
Since she just about managed to get accepted to the school because of her bad maths grade, she is set up with a tutor. The tutor being none other than the guy she is crushing on, Carter.
With Carter Hastings having his heartbroken, he has sworn off girls, which leads to him drawing up a contract between himself and Ava for their tutor sessions. But what neither of them don’t expect is it leading to something more, given all the time they spend together.
I will admit it did take me a little while to get into the story and connect with the characters in the beginning. However, once I was able to get past that initial lack of connection, I couldn’t help but dive in. Especially seeing the cute and sweet relationship between Ava and Carter grow from friendship into something more throughout.
And even though The Charade is Ava and Carter's story, I liked the way Judy included the secondary characters. Given us some of their story too, without it overlapping or taking the story away from Ava and Carter.
I will admit, while it seemed like it was just going to be a simple Friends to Lovers story, but with the Forbidden element thrown in. Judy Corry definitely managed to throw me for a loop with the surprise twists she threw in there. Something I did not expect to happen. However once it was thrown in, I couldn’t help but grip on tighter with wanting to know more and get all the answers to the mystery considering all the suspense building up around the twist. And the effect it had on some of the characters, mainly Ava and Carter.
There was definitely chemistry between Carter and Ava from the get go and not just physical attraction, it was much more than that. I loved that Ava was able to bring Carter out of his shell again and the way she always kept him on his toes, by surprising him in ways he didn’t expect of her. You could see she bought out a side to him, that he had locked away. Truly being there for him and always willing to listen and comfort him, by putting aside her feelings and putting their friendship first always.
As for Carter though he was a little cold and uptight in the beginning, I enjoyed getting to know him and see that hard exterior he hid behind come down. Showing that there was more to him than his looks and name, which is what most people saw. The fact that he shared himself with Ava and the way he did it was sweet, adorable and cute.
They were truly a cute couple who were definitely meant for one another.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Ava and Carter’s story in The Charade and can’t wait to read the next book in the Eden Falls Academy series. Especially considering the sneak peek we were given in the epilogue, letting us know who the next story will be about.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Since she just about managed to get accepted to the school because of her bad maths grade, she is set up with a tutor. The tutor being none other than the guy she is crushing on, Carter.
With Carter Hastings having his heartbroken, he has sworn off girls, which leads to him drawing up a contract between himself and Ava for their tutor sessions. But what neither of them don’t expect is it leading to something more, given all the time they spend together.
I will admit it did take me a little while to get into the story and connect with the characters in the beginning. However, once I was able to get past that initial lack of connection, I couldn’t help but dive in. Especially seeing the cute and sweet relationship between Ava and Carter grow from friendship into something more throughout.
And even though The Charade is Ava and Carter's story, I liked the way Judy included the secondary characters. Given us some of their story too, without it overlapping or taking the story away from Ava and Carter.
I will admit, while it seemed like it was just going to be a simple Friends to Lovers story, but with the Forbidden element thrown in. Judy Corry definitely managed to throw me for a loop with the surprise twists she threw in there. Something I did not expect to happen. However once it was thrown in, I couldn’t help but grip on tighter with wanting to know more and get all the answers to the mystery considering all the suspense building up around the twist. And the effect it had on some of the characters, mainly Ava and Carter.
There was definitely chemistry between Carter and Ava from the get go and not just physical attraction, it was much more than that. I loved that Ava was able to bring Carter out of his shell again and the way she always kept him on his toes, by surprising him in ways he didn’t expect of her. You could see she bought out a side to him, that he had locked away. Truly being there for him and always willing to listen and comfort him, by putting aside her feelings and putting their friendship first always.
As for Carter though he was a little cold and uptight in the beginning, I enjoyed getting to know him and see that hard exterior he hid behind come down. Showing that there was more to him than his looks and name, which is what most people saw. The fact that he shared himself with Ava and the way he did it was sweet, adorable and cute.
They were truly a cute couple who were definitely meant for one another.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Ava and Carter’s story in The Charade and can’t wait to read the next book in the Eden Falls Academy series. Especially considering the sneak peek we were given in the epilogue, letting us know who the next story will be about.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2021
When I saw The Charade and the cover of it, I was immediately captured. I really want to read this book and I wasn’t disappointed. Judy Corry did such an amazing job with writing The Charade.
The Charade is the story of Ava and Carter and follows them on their journey to find their lovestory. Ava is in her last year of high school and she attend that year at the Eden Falls Academy, which her mother used to attend as well, while studying abroad. When she meets Carter, she is immediately blown away, because he is the type she is falling for. But he dates only supermodels according to her new friend Scarlett. That is a real bummer for her. But what she doesn’t know is that he doesn't want to date any more because every girl, according to him, is after his money..
While Carter and Ava meet each other furthermore, because he tutors her, his ex-girlfriend is someone who has quite her own way. So Carter and Ava must put aside all objections to start a fake relationship with each other. A fake relationship can't hurt either of them, can it?
The cover of this book stands out immediately. I love the way this story unfolds. The characters are very good and well developed. I will definitely miss them. They are so truly described in the book that you are almost there with them yourself. This was a book very hard to put down. The structure of the book was also very well developed. The progression in the book was great. Just perfect! I’m really looking forward to the next book Judy will write!
I recommend this book to everyone who loves reading sweet, clean romance, especially if you like the trope forbidden romance.
I received an early review copy from the author to give an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
The Charade is the story of Ava and Carter and follows them on their journey to find their lovestory. Ava is in her last year of high school and she attend that year at the Eden Falls Academy, which her mother used to attend as well, while studying abroad. When she meets Carter, she is immediately blown away, because he is the type she is falling for. But he dates only supermodels according to her new friend Scarlett. That is a real bummer for her. But what she doesn’t know is that he doesn't want to date any more because every girl, according to him, is after his money..
While Carter and Ava meet each other furthermore, because he tutors her, his ex-girlfriend is someone who has quite her own way. So Carter and Ava must put aside all objections to start a fake relationship with each other. A fake relationship can't hurt either of them, can it?
The cover of this book stands out immediately. I love the way this story unfolds. The characters are very good and well developed. I will definitely miss them. They are so truly described in the book that you are almost there with them yourself. This was a book very hard to put down. The structure of the book was also very well developed. The progression in the book was great. Just perfect! I’m really looking forward to the next book Judy will write!
I recommend this book to everyone who loves reading sweet, clean romance, especially if you like the trope forbidden romance.
I received an early review copy from the author to give an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
January 9, 2022
After a particularly rough breakup Carter is initially stand-offish and aloof but after spending some time with Ava, we realize that he’s really a sweetheart and is just doing his best to avoid getting his heart broken again. I really loved Carter and his friendship with Ava was pure gold.
Ava was outgoing, witty and had a great sense of humor. She was just the girl to get under Carter’s skin. I loved how their relationship progressed. They had amazing chemistry, their dialogue was so funny and relatable but I mostly enjoyed their teasing and banters. They were so cute and it was impossible not to root for them.
However, as much as I enjoyed the first 3/4 of the book, the final 1/4 got very weird and extremely cringey. So much so that I skimmed to the end. I don’t want to spoil anything but let’s just say that the ‘forbidden’ drama at the end was gross to say the least. It was unnecessary and ruined the book for me.
FAVORITE QUOTE
"What can I say? I like reading. You can live a thousand different lives without ever having to leave your room."
Content: PG-13 Clean, Kissing
Ava was outgoing, witty and had a great sense of humor. She was just the girl to get under Carter’s skin. I loved how their relationship progressed. They had amazing chemistry, their dialogue was so funny and relatable but I mostly enjoyed their teasing and banters. They were so cute and it was impossible not to root for them.
However, as much as I enjoyed the first 3/4 of the book, the final 1/4 got very weird and extremely cringey. So much so that I skimmed to the end. I don’t want to spoil anything but let’s just say that the ‘forbidden’ drama at the end was gross to say the least. It was unnecessary and ruined the book for me.
FAVORITE QUOTE
"What can I say? I like reading. You can live a thousand different lives without ever having to leave your room."
Content: PG-13 Clean, Kissing
November 10, 2023
Quick Summary: A YA/NA gem
My Review: The Charade by Judy Corry is book #1 in the Eden Falls Academy series. It features the relationship between Ava and Carter.
About the Book: When Ava and her twin sister enroll in the private school their mother used to attend, they are welcomed by all, for the most part. Unfortunately, Carter Hastings wasn't included in that number. From the moment, Ava and he met, he came across as a hot and arrogant man-bot. Still, there was more depth to him than Ava realized in the beginning. Why was it that he made her eyes cross and her skin tingle when they were together...especially during their tutoring sessions?
My Final Say: This was a young love story. Despite the fact that there was a serious hiccup during their courtship, Ava and Carter had staying power.
Other: The Eden Falls school and community had a lot of secrets. This book could easily be a Netflix series. I think it would be hugely popular.
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: OYA to NA
Status: Clean
Level: 🍨
Other: Some petting & parking situations
#libraryread
My Review: The Charade by Judy Corry is book #1 in the Eden Falls Academy series. It features the relationship between Ava and Carter.
About the Book: When Ava and her twin sister enroll in the private school their mother used to attend, they are welcomed by all, for the most part. Unfortunately, Carter Hastings wasn't included in that number. From the moment, Ava and he met, he came across as a hot and arrogant man-bot. Still, there was more depth to him than Ava realized in the beginning. Why was it that he made her eyes cross and her skin tingle when they were together...especially during their tutoring sessions?
My Final Say: This was a young love story. Despite the fact that there was a serious hiccup during their courtship, Ava and Carter had staying power.
Other: The Eden Falls school and community had a lot of secrets. This book could easily be a Netflix series. I think it would be hugely popular.
Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: OYA to NA
Status: Clean
Level: 🍨
Other: Some petting & parking situations
#libraryread
May 24, 2025
dnf at 90%
this was awful. hands down one of the worst books I've ever read.
first off there was NO character complexity or development. the fact that the characters were so shallow that all their decisions on who to date were based off of looks and make out fantasies really annoyed me
also I HATED the plot twist that Mr Hastings might be her dad so she's dating her brother was awful. and not only that BUT THEY MADE OUT EVEN WHEN THEY THOUGHT THEY WERE SIBLINGS. ick. gross. ew.
I didn't finish it I only read to find out who her father was. also this book had wayyy too much sleeping around in marriage and accidental pregnancies.
also I had MAJOR problems with this as a Christian. the way she wrote goddess with a capital G when describing the fmc really ticked me off. and not even that but she presented what happened in the garden of Eden when son entered the world in a good light and made it sound so romantic when in reality it is the worst thing to ever happen and because of their decisions we cannot dwell in God's presence anymore. it was not good, it was not romantic, it was messed up and with bad intentions.
so basically this book sucked. it had no redeeming qualities it was written very poorly and was deeply messed up
this was awful. hands down one of the worst books I've ever read.
first off there was NO character complexity or development. the fact that the characters were so shallow that all their decisions on who to date were based off of looks and make out fantasies really annoyed me
also I HATED the plot twist that Mr Hastings might be her dad so she's dating her brother was awful. and not only that BUT THEY MADE OUT EVEN WHEN THEY THOUGHT THEY WERE SIBLINGS. ick. gross. ew.
I didn't finish it I only read to find out who her father was. also this book had wayyy too much sleeping around in marriage and accidental pregnancies.
also I had MAJOR problems with this as a Christian. the way she wrote goddess with a capital G when describing the fmc really ticked me off. and not even that but she presented what happened in the garden of Eden when son entered the world in a good light and made it sound so romantic when in reality it is the worst thing to ever happen and because of their decisions we cannot dwell in God's presence anymore. it was not good, it was not romantic, it was messed up and with bad intentions.
so basically this book sucked. it had no redeeming qualities it was written very poorly and was deeply messed up
May 13, 2021
4🍭🍭🍭🍭
Spanish & English ARC Review
ESP ::
El nuevo universo de Judy Corry me encantó. Los personajes introducidos ya prometen historias muy interesantes y la primera pareja son Ava y Carter.
Me encanta su historia, pues los “fake relationship” tropes son de mis favoritos. Ava es divertida aunque de repente es un poco superficial, pero tiene un sentido del humor irreverente. Carter es muy lindo aunque bastante rígido con sus estructuras y con Ava aprende a liberarse un poco.
La parte de misterio e intriga estuvo excelente y me tuvo adivinando el resultado (no le atiné, por cierto). Pero me encantó la sorpresa. El bonus está hermoso y el epílogo de Cambrielle promete una siguiente historia padrísima.
ENG ::
Judy Corry’s new universe is really cool. The characters are lovely and I already wanna read about them (I have a couple of theories in their dynamics) and the first couple are Ava and Carter.
Fake relationship tropes are one of my favorites, so I enjoyed their story. Ava is a funny, original, irreverent girl. Sometimes very shallow but it added to the fun. Carter is a really nice guy, but very rigid witty structured and Meeting Ava gives him the chance to let go a little bit.
The mystery aspect of the story kept me guessing and making theories in my mind (none of them were correct though) and that’s why the final answer was a big surprise! The bonus scene is amazing and the epilogue introduced us to what I exprect to be another amazing story!
Spanish & English ARC Review
ESP ::
El nuevo universo de Judy Corry me encantó. Los personajes introducidos ya prometen historias muy interesantes y la primera pareja son Ava y Carter.
Me encanta su historia, pues los “fake relationship” tropes son de mis favoritos. Ava es divertida aunque de repente es un poco superficial, pero tiene un sentido del humor irreverente. Carter es muy lindo aunque bastante rígido con sus estructuras y con Ava aprende a liberarse un poco.
La parte de misterio e intriga estuvo excelente y me tuvo adivinando el resultado (no le atiné, por cierto). Pero me encantó la sorpresa. El bonus está hermoso y el epílogo de Cambrielle promete una siguiente historia padrísima.
ENG ::
Judy Corry’s new universe is really cool. The characters are lovely and I already wanna read about them (I have a couple of theories in their dynamics) and the first couple are Ava and Carter.
Fake relationship tropes are one of my favorites, so I enjoyed their story. Ava is a funny, original, irreverent girl. Sometimes very shallow but it added to the fun. Carter is a really nice guy, but very rigid witty structured and Meeting Ava gives him the chance to let go a little bit.
The mystery aspect of the story kept me guessing and making theories in my mind (none of them were correct though) and that’s why the final answer was a big surprise! The bonus scene is amazing and the epilogue introduced us to what I exprect to be another amazing story!
July 17, 2025
3.5
If I had a nickel for every book that had the “half-sibling trope” I would have two nickels. Which it’s weird that it happened twice.
Jk you guys they are not half siblings but we rlly gotta get rid of that trope bc EW. (The book that had the actual half siblings trope was fearless by Lauren Robert’s incase your wondering)
I also felt like this was very insta lovey? Where was the slow burn?!
But I mean hey it was my first book that I finished in like a month in a half so it’s okay!
If I had a nickel for every book that had the “half-sibling trope” I would have two nickels. Which it’s weird that it happened twice.
Jk you guys they are not half siblings but we rlly gotta get rid of that trope bc EW. (The book that had the actual half siblings trope was fearless by Lauren Robert’s incase your wondering)
I also felt like this was very insta lovey? Where was the slow burn?!
But I mean hey it was my first book that I finished in like a month in a half so it’s okay!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2021
Let me start by admitting I love Judy Corry's writing! The Charade starts out with twins Ava and Elyse enrolling in a private school and the story switches from Ava to Carter's POV. I'm not gonna lie - it started off good: good solid characters, good setting, but I just couldn't connect at first to Ava. But about maybe 30% into the book I'm hooked! Then they're sharing their backstories and I'm so invested in these characters that I'm crying. Literally, crying. You know it's fantastic writing when you're so into the story and feeling all the feels!! (Chef's kiss!) Also, I love the enemies to lovers trope! This even sprinkles in a little forbidden love! I'm so here for it!
I love that sprinkled into the story are things I love! Like on 1 of their dates they watch MegaMind - I adore that movie and it made me smile that they loved it, too! There's mention of a Piano Guys song playing at a dance which is so awesome! We used to watch Jon Schmidt in concert every year before he started the Piano Guys. Ava mentions channeling her "inner Oprah" and if I didn't love her already that would've tipped the scales! There's some great pop culture references in here!!
I knew the ending was coming but I expect a HEA and I wasn't disappointed! And getting there was such a wonderful journey! The climax and suspense were perfect! I ended up reading this in one sitting! Judy has a way of writing these characters that you wish you knew IRL. They're flawed, and funny, and vulnerable! I can't wait to read more in this series! I really want to hear Elyse and then Mack's stories!! This is my first e-arc and thank you Judy for sending it to me!! I definitely recommend this for those that enjoy HEA clean contemporary romance stories!
I love that sprinkled into the story are things I love! Like on 1 of their dates they watch MegaMind - I adore that movie and it made me smile that they loved it, too! There's mention of a Piano Guys song playing at a dance which is so awesome! We used to watch Jon Schmidt in concert every year before he started the Piano Guys. Ava mentions channeling her "inner Oprah" and if I didn't love her already that would've tipped the scales! There's some great pop culture references in here!!
I knew the ending was coming but I expect a HEA and I wasn't disappointed! And getting there was such a wonderful journey! The climax and suspense were perfect! I ended up reading this in one sitting! Judy has a way of writing these characters that you wish you knew IRL. They're flawed, and funny, and vulnerable! I can't wait to read more in this series! I really want to hear Elyse and then Mack's stories!! This is my first e-arc and thank you Judy for sending it to me!! I definitely recommend this for those that enjoy HEA clean contemporary romance stories!
May 8, 2025
quite possibly the worst book i've read this year
where was the trigger warning for incest T-T
incest and insta-love in one book this really has it all (except like a plot line or likeable characters or anything of substance)
wish i had never read this please don't read it i'm begging you
it was also like vaguely misogynist and all the female characters were pick mes (lowkey the guys were too)
and everyone was so petite and skinny and tall and they made fat jokes too... not it
actually when was this published because it was sooooooo bad
worse than bad fanfiction
where was the trigger warning for incest T-T
incest and insta-love in one book this really has it all (except like a plot line or likeable characters or anything of substance)
wish i had never read this please don't read it i'm begging you
it was also like vaguely misogynist and all the female characters were pick mes (lowkey the guys were too)
and everyone was so petite and skinny and tall and they made fat jokes too... not it
actually when was this published because it was sooooooo bad
worse than bad fanfiction
November 10, 2021
Fake to Forbidden
I had a hankering for a YA romance tonight. It's been a while since I picked one up and I needed a change of scenery. This was a fun, first fake, and then forbidden romance. Ava and Carter are characters with some substance and I had fun getting to know them.
I had a hankering for a YA romance tonight. It's been a while since I picked one up and I needed a change of scenery. This was a fun, first fake, and then forbidden romance. Ava and Carter are characters with some substance and I had fun getting to know them.
January 17, 2025
This book is so cute and sweet 🤗
Abt to start the second one 😁
Abt to start the second one 😁
May 18, 2021
First time reading forbidden romance---so worth it
This is an auto buy author for me, and I'd been waiting for this book! I knew it was a forbidden romance trope ( which I was excited to try out), but it wasn't quite what I expected.
This story broadened my view of conflict, and evoked huge, impossible emotions for me....it's definitely a romance, but there's also mystery...and an ache I'd never wish on anyone.
Go into this one with an open mind, and you'll love it!
This is an auto buy author for me, and I'd been waiting for this book! I knew it was a forbidden romance trope ( which I was excited to try out), but it wasn't quite what I expected.
This story broadened my view of conflict, and evoked huge, impossible emotions for me....it's definitely a romance, but there's also mystery...and an ache I'd never wish on anyone.
Go into this one with an open mind, and you'll love it!
May 21, 2021
Amazing! A truly wonderfully crafted and beautiful book. Loved every bit. Looking forward to more!
August 16, 2021
The Charade is the first installment in a new series of books by the fabulous Judy Corry. If you’re familiar with her work, you are aware that teen romance is one of her specialties. Ms. Corry has a knack of getting readers to connect with both main characters (of the stories romance), and see their relationship blossom.
Ava and Carter are our two main characters that are in a forbidden/fake romance. Ava is a twin that has moved to Eden Falls Academy during her senior year. She is a fun loving, boy crazed type of girl that is hoping to find some fun in her last year of high school. Carter is your everyday pretty boy that’s ALSO a planner to a T (rare to see in YA novels). He’s known around the school to only date models and isn’t prone to giving people his time of day unless they are “penciled in.” While my description of our hero may seem to make him look stuck up or cocky, he in no way is.
Ava is required to have a tutor while at Eden, and lo and behold, in comes Carter. Carter has Ava sign a waiver stating the two will not spark any type of romance, but rather solidify that their relationship is purely business. When Ava decides she doesn’t want the other kids to know that she is being tutored, she offers Carter a plan to fake date each other - and although it wasn’t a “scheduled” plan for Carter, he agrees. This plan also benefits him as it will make his ex (that left him) jealous. The sparks between these two characters run extremely high and the make out sessions are sure FIRE! As the two start to develop feelings a big #shocker hits them right in the face and the big question now is “can the two overcome if true love is on the line?”
As always with Judy Corry’s books, the romance and buildup is the heart of the story. These two characters were written so perfectly as well as the secondary characters that we will be seeing in the future. It’s easy to close your eyes and feel as if you’re in the story with the way she visualizes scenes in her writing. Most definitely a cute read!
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Ava and Carter are our two main characters that are in a forbidden/fake romance. Ava is a twin that has moved to Eden Falls Academy during her senior year. She is a fun loving, boy crazed type of girl that is hoping to find some fun in her last year of high school. Carter is your everyday pretty boy that’s ALSO a planner to a T (rare to see in YA novels). He’s known around the school to only date models and isn’t prone to giving people his time of day unless they are “penciled in.” While my description of our hero may seem to make him look stuck up or cocky, he in no way is.
Ava is required to have a tutor while at Eden, and lo and behold, in comes Carter. Carter has Ava sign a waiver stating the two will not spark any type of romance, but rather solidify that their relationship is purely business. When Ava decides she doesn’t want the other kids to know that she is being tutored, she offers Carter a plan to fake date each other - and although it wasn’t a “scheduled” plan for Carter, he agrees. This plan also benefits him as it will make his ex (that left him) jealous. The sparks between these two characters run extremely high and the make out sessions are sure FIRE! As the two start to develop feelings a big #shocker hits them right in the face and the big question now is “can the two overcome if true love is on the line?”
As always with Judy Corry’s books, the romance and buildup is the heart of the story. These two characters were written so perfectly as well as the secondary characters that we will be seeing in the future. It’s easy to close your eyes and feel as if you’re in the story with the way she visualizes scenes in her writing. Most definitely a cute read!
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 13, 2021
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a new series for Judy Corry and I'm so happy she gave me an ARC. The setting is a boarding school and the students are likeable and relatable just like all of Judy's characters. She has a way of writing that gets you invested in the characters because she gets you to see beyond what’s on the outside and their circumstances.
Yes, this is a privileged school with characters whose lifestyles are quite lavish but they are down to earth. For this one, she's added in elements like intrigue, suspense and a touch of the forbidden. This is an emotional read and there are parts that had me near tears and others that had my heart beating, wondering what's the truth here?! It's not a whodunnit but more of an unravelling of history that I just had to get to the bottom of.
Carter and Ava have such chemistry together and from the way they understand each other you can tell it goes way beyond a physical attraction. I love all their interactions and their witty bantering. They are surrounded by an extensive cast of fun characters and cannot wait for everyone else's stories. I absolutely loved this book and if you're into YA books with heart you will too!
This is a new series for Judy Corry and I'm so happy she gave me an ARC. The setting is a boarding school and the students are likeable and relatable just like all of Judy's characters. She has a way of writing that gets you invested in the characters because she gets you to see beyond what’s on the outside and their circumstances.
Yes, this is a privileged school with characters whose lifestyles are quite lavish but they are down to earth. For this one, she's added in elements like intrigue, suspense and a touch of the forbidden. This is an emotional read and there are parts that had me near tears and others that had my heart beating, wondering what's the truth here?! It's not a whodunnit but more of an unravelling of history that I just had to get to the bottom of.
Carter and Ava have such chemistry together and from the way they understand each other you can tell it goes way beyond a physical attraction. I love all their interactions and their witty bantering. They are surrounded by an extensive cast of fun characters and cannot wait for everyone else's stories. I absolutely loved this book and if you're into YA books with heart you will too!
May 19, 2021
I’m actually not sure how to rate this book. Maybe 2.5 stars? There were things I liked and other things I didn’t. This book felt different than other Judy Corry young adult offerings. I haven’t hesitated to let my daughters read Judy’s other YA books, but I wouldn’t want them reading this one. There were quite a few topics that made me slightly uncomfortable. One topic, premarital sex, was brought up a lot. Ava and Carter got pretty hot and heavy at times. The fact that Ava and Elyse’s mom kept their father’s identity a secret from them really bothered me, and her reasoning for sending them to the school just really didn’t sit well with me. I felt like there was too much going on in this one story.
May 26, 2022
5⭐
"And I said that falling for you wouldn't be a temptation in the least, but I'm realising that I was just lying to myself because falling for you has been the easiest thing I've ever done."
Ava, the new girl needs a math tutor. Carter has a "rule" that he doesn't date the girls he tutors. Fair enough, but a fake relationship that benefits them both throws a spanner in the works along with a major plot twist.
Second read - I absolutely love this book. It's my favourite YA romance. It's very much grumpy x sunshine in the beginning but the relationship that unfolds it's so addictive. Can I also just say that the height of everyone in this book is so attractive? Lol
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First read -I binged this so hard. I refused to be an adult and disregarded my responsibilities to finish this! If I'm being honest I wasn't breathing for about 50% of this book because of the tension. Such a good book!!
Carter sweetie, I love u <3<3 you are so wrong but so right. the plot twist in this was absolutely wild lmao pls if you like ya romance you need to read this
"And I said that falling for you wouldn't be a temptation in the least, but I'm realising that I was just lying to myself because falling for you has been the easiest thing I've ever done."
Ava, the new girl needs a math tutor. Carter has a "rule" that he doesn't date the girls he tutors. Fair enough, but a fake relationship that benefits them both throws a spanner in the works along with a major plot twist.
Second read - I absolutely love this book. It's my favourite YA romance. It's very much grumpy x sunshine in the beginning but the relationship that unfolds it's so addictive. Can I also just say that the height of everyone in this book is so attractive? Lol
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First read -I binged this so hard. I refused to be an adult and disregarded my responsibilities to finish this! If I'm being honest I wasn't breathing for about 50% of this book because of the tension. Such a good book!!
Carter sweetie, I love u <3<3 you are so wrong but so right. the plot twist in this was absolutely wild lmao pls if you like ya romance you need to read this
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