Exclusive Cover Revealed for Lynn Painter’s Newest YA Rom-Com ‘Fake Skating’
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Renowned young adult romance author, Lynn Painter, is back with a new novel that is set to capture the hearts of readers. The highly-anticipated YA rom-com, ‘Fake Skating’, is gearing up for release, and PEOPLE has the privilege of unveiling its cover to the world.
According to the publisher’s synopsis, the story revolves around two main characters, Dani and Alec, who shared a close bond in their childhood until circumstances forced them apart. As fate would have it, they find themselves reunited in their senior year of high school, amidst family struggles and complex emotions. The plot thickens as one of them decides to feign a romantic relationship, intertwined with the world of high school hockey in Minnesota.
The novel poses the question: can their childhood connection withstand the challenges of life in a town that reveres hockey above all else? Lynn Painter’s ‘Fake Skating’ promises a tale filled with twists and turns, as the protagonists navigate their feelings on and off the ice.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Painter shared her inspiration behind delving into the realm of hockey-centric storytelling. Known for her captivating romance novels like ‘Better Than the Movies’ and ‘Betting on You’, Painter expressed her love for sports romances and the lack of high school hockey rom-coms in the literary landscape.
Venturing from her hometown of Omaha, Neb. to Minnesota, Painter immersed herself in the hockey culture that serves as the backdrop for ‘Fake Skating’. The sense of community and passion she encountered fueled her creativity, shaping the narrative into a tale not just of romance but of belonging and self-discovery.
As the author delved deeper into the intricacies of hockey and its cultural significance, the story evolved into a compelling exploration of finding one’s identity amidst suburban rivalries and fake relationships. ‘Fake Skating’ transcends the clichés of a typical sports romance, delving into themes of camaraderie and personal growth.
Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, ‘Fake Skating’ is scheduled to hit bookstores on Sept. 30, 2025, with preorders available now. Lynn Painter’s latest creation promises to entertain readers with its blend of heartwarming romance, coming-of-age themes, and the electrifying world of high school hockey.
The journey undertaken by Lynn Painter in crafting ‘Fake Skating’ underscores the power of storytelling to capture the essence of community, friendship, and love. As readers eagerly await the release of this enchanting novel, anticipation mounts for the heartfelt tale that awaits within the pages of ‘Fake Skating’.
This exciting new addition to Lynn Painter’s repertoire is poised to captivate audiences with its unique blend of romance, sports, and personal growth. Stay tuned for the unveiling of ‘Fake Skating’ later this year, a novel that promises to leave a lasting impact on readers of all ages.