Better Than The Movies

Book Title: Better Than the Movies

Author: Lynn Painter

Description:

Liz Buxbaum, a quirky high school senior obsessed with romantic comedies, dreams of her own magical prom moment—especially now that her childhood crush, Michael, is back in town. Facing grief over her late mother, Liz enlists help from her next-door neighbor and longtime antagonist, Wes Bennett, in a fake-dating scheme to make Michael notice her. What starts as a playful ploy—with chapters beginning with rom-com quotes and pop culture flair—gradually turns into a heartfelt, slow-burn romance as Liz discovers that real life (and love) may be even better than the movies. 

Tropes:

• Enemies-to-lovers / childhood frenemies (Liz and Wes bicker but grow closer)  
• Fake dating (Liz and Wes pretend to be together to get Michael’s attention)  
• Slow-burn romance with witty banter and heartfelt growth  
• Romantic comedy homage (each chapter opens with a rom-com quote; Liz imagines life like a movie)  
• Healing from grief—processing the loss of her mother adds emotional depth  

Spice rating:

Pretty mild overall. There are a few passionate kissing scenes near the end, along with light sexual innuendo and some swearing. Teens attend a party, and Liz briefly smokes and drinks, but nothing graphic. I’d place it at about Level 1 on a mild spice scale. 

Subgenre:

Young Adult rom-com romance—sometimes called “YA Romantasy-lite”—with a strong emphasis on nostalgic, witty, high-school drama and emotional growth. Think modern 90s-style chick-flick meets heartfelt teen reality.