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The Art of Pretend: A Novel
A tantalizing debut about a woman drawn into the orbit of her friend's wealthy artist family in New York City and the complications and consequences that arise when she embarks on a secret relationship with the golden-boy older brother
Ren loves and hates Etta, her best friend since they met at NYU nearly a decade ago. Etta defines Ren's New York. She lavishes her with designer hand-me-downs and takes her along to parties at trust fund lofts and Hamptons estates. But when Etta moves to Barcelona with no warning, Ren is left to face who she is without her, her unremarkable life of shoebox apartment, thankless job, and estranged family.
Enter Archer, Etta’s older brother, whom Ren’s always been infatuated with. In his sister’s absence, suddenly he’s inviting Ren to visit his art gallery, to prestigious galas, on weekend trips with his friends to Amagansett. Archer’s interest makes Ren feel alive in whole new ways, but she knows Etta can't find out. As their relationship intensifies, so does her unease. If it all blows up, who will she be on the other side?
Set over a heady New York summer, The Art of Pretend is an alluring novel about wealth, power, art, ambition—and the stories and lies we tell others and ourselves.
Ren loves and hates Etta, her best friend since they met at NYU nearly a decade ago. Etta defines Ren's New York. She lavishes her with designer hand-me-downs and takes her along to parties at trust fund lofts and Hamptons estates. But when Etta moves to Barcelona with no warning, Ren is left to face who she is without her, her unremarkable life of shoebox apartment, thankless job, and estranged family.
Enter Archer, Etta’s older brother, whom Ren’s always been infatuated with. In his sister’s absence, suddenly he’s inviting Ren to visit his art gallery, to prestigious galas, on weekend trips with his friends to Amagansett. Archer’s interest makes Ren feel alive in whole new ways, but she knows Etta can't find out. As their relationship intensifies, so does her unease. If it all blows up, who will she be on the other side?
Set over a heady New York summer, The Art of Pretend is an alluring novel about wealth, power, art, ambition—and the stories and lies we tell others and ourselves.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2024
28 people are currently reading
5384 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
July 2, 2024
Art is a lie that makes us realize truth. —Pablo Picasso
sweetbitter x saltburn (minus the murder and grave humping lol)
this was an intriguing read. while the plot follows a secret budding romance between the protagonist ren and her best friend's older brother, archer, the themes are very much centered on wealth, power, class, and the effects of all of the above on intrapersonal relationships.
Etta was my best friend, but in getting involved with her brother, I would be too close to her equal. She wouldn’t like that.
ren is quiet, timid, and self-depracating; she follows her best friend etta, admiring her boldness but knows she doesn't fit into etta's upper society world. while etta is away, she flounders on where they stand as friends; ren feels guilty for the secret tryst that develops between her and archer, but at the same time recognizes the power trips and callousness etta holds over her, comparing it to the dealings with her boss natalie.
I felt very alone, very ordinary, and like I might never amount to anything. Did all people feel this way? Like you might never be enough?
reading this reminded me so much of the instability and insecurity of being in your 20s, especially in a big city; the constant feelings of identity crisis coupled with the panic of what am i doing with my life / will i ever be able to do what i truly want to do? there's a sympathy i can extend to ren, etta, and archer in regards to that tumultuousness.
“But art is a risk. And risk is inherent to anything you truly care about.”
i enjoyed the writing itself as well. while there is some fun designer or luxury namedropping and descriptions to indulge in, kuhl focuses more on the subtle microtells between characters and complex dynamics. these characters felt very real to me. i think of the scene when ren's mother plum approaches ren to investigate the celine sunglasses. it's one of kuhl's many examples of the unspoken rules of behavior in upper class society; subtle confrontation, quiet luxury but extreme possessiveness over their belongings, the quiet smirks of response to faux pas while offering a patronizing grace. reminders that while you might be hanging around, you'll never belong.
Etta was being thoughtful, but her actions felt rooted in something else. Something like control.
How money was power, and power was the only currency that would ever really matter.
toxic relationships are certainly centered: ren's parental relationships, her examination of etta and archer's relationships to their aloof parents, ren's respective dynamic to etta and archer each contrasted to her work husband jeff. but there is also some reflection on the struggles as an artist; how to balance art and actually making a living, how capitalizing on art affects the process and satisfaction, the legitimacy of the identity of an artist. this is of course compounded by things like money, nepotism, and imposter syndrome.
if you prefer your reads focused on imperfect dynamics with plenty of reflection juxtaposed to a backdrop of the glamor of the new york city elite, you'll enjoy this.
After all, pretending is an art and all art comes at a price.
______________________
arc read
sounds dark academia-adjacent and intriguing!
sweetbitter x saltburn (minus the murder and grave humping lol)
this was an intriguing read. while the plot follows a secret budding romance between the protagonist ren and her best friend's older brother, archer, the themes are very much centered on wealth, power, class, and the effects of all of the above on intrapersonal relationships.
Etta was my best friend, but in getting involved with her brother, I would be too close to her equal. She wouldn’t like that.
ren is quiet, timid, and self-depracating; she follows her best friend etta, admiring her boldness but knows she doesn't fit into etta's upper society world. while etta is away, she flounders on where they stand as friends; ren feels guilty for the secret tryst that develops between her and archer, but at the same time recognizes the power trips and callousness etta holds over her, comparing it to the dealings with her boss natalie.
I felt very alone, very ordinary, and like I might never amount to anything. Did all people feel this way? Like you might never be enough?
reading this reminded me so much of the instability and insecurity of being in your 20s, especially in a big city; the constant feelings of identity crisis coupled with the panic of what am i doing with my life / will i ever be able to do what i truly want to do? there's a sympathy i can extend to ren, etta, and archer in regards to that tumultuousness.
“But art is a risk. And risk is inherent to anything you truly care about.”
i enjoyed the writing itself as well. while there is some fun designer or luxury namedropping and descriptions to indulge in, kuhl focuses more on the subtle microtells between characters and complex dynamics. these characters felt very real to me. i think of the scene when ren's mother plum approaches ren to investigate the celine sunglasses. it's one of kuhl's many examples of the unspoken rules of behavior in upper class society; subtle confrontation, quiet luxury but extreme possessiveness over their belongings, the quiet smirks of response to faux pas while offering a patronizing grace. reminders that while you might be hanging around, you'll never belong.
Etta was being thoughtful, but her actions felt rooted in something else. Something like control.
How money was power, and power was the only currency that would ever really matter.
toxic relationships are certainly centered: ren's parental relationships, her examination of etta and archer's relationships to their aloof parents, ren's respective dynamic to etta and archer each contrasted to her work husband jeff. but there is also some reflection on the struggles as an artist; how to balance art and actually making a living, how capitalizing on art affects the process and satisfaction, the legitimacy of the identity of an artist. this is of course compounded by things like money, nepotism, and imposter syndrome.
if you prefer your reads focused on imperfect dynamics with plenty of reflection juxtaposed to a backdrop of the glamor of the new york city elite, you'll enjoy this.
After all, pretending is an art and all art comes at a price.
______________________
arc read
sounds dark academia-adjacent and intriguing!
September 15, 2024
Have I got a great debut alert for you!!! Pub day is tomorrow July 9th!! Thank you soo much @htp_hive @htpbooks @graydonhousebooks for this gorgeous gifted copy!! Look 👀 at this cover!! 😍
Review 🔽
Listen to this… Wealth… power… ART… NYC… sign this girl up!! I love all of that!! 😍
Ren and Etta are BFFS 👯♀️ from college…. Etta is living large in NYC off mommy and daddy’s dime..🥂 👠 🛍
💳 👗… and Ren… not so much. Luckily Etta is super generous and shares her good fortune with her bestie… but is it all out of the goodness of her heart?? 😏 Or does she like the power?? Hmm 🤔…
What a tangled web 🕷 this was!! I loved living the good life with these girls… and THEN there is Archer. 😍… OH MY…
As the drama went on between these three… I was all in! I had no idea 🤷♀️ how this was going to end. I mean Archer has a GF so what is he doing? ??!! 🤔🤷♀️🤷♀️🤷♀️ Ren is CLEARLY the outsider as Archer and Etta’s circle of frenemies like to remind her of. 😠…So many secrets…🤫 … This prestigious family knows how to keep things quiet… 🤐
I loved the ending!! ❤️ I wasn’t sure how it would wrap up and it gave me all the closure I was looking for!! This book had me intrigued from the very first page. Lots of drama…A fantastic storyline… a very entertaining read!! Happy pub day… almost!! 😍😉
Review 🔽
Listen to this… Wealth… power… ART… NYC… sign this girl up!! I love all of that!! 😍
Ren and Etta are BFFS 👯♀️ from college…. Etta is living large in NYC off mommy and daddy’s dime..🥂 👠 🛍
💳 👗… and Ren… not so much. Luckily Etta is super generous and shares her good fortune with her bestie… but is it all out of the goodness of her heart?? 😏 Or does she like the power?? Hmm 🤔…
What a tangled web 🕷 this was!! I loved living the good life with these girls… and THEN there is Archer. 😍… OH MY…
As the drama went on between these three… I was all in! I had no idea 🤷♀️ how this was going to end. I mean Archer has a GF so what is he doing? ??!! 🤔🤷♀️🤷♀️🤷♀️ Ren is CLEARLY the outsider as Archer and Etta’s circle of frenemies like to remind her of. 😠…So many secrets…🤫 … This prestigious family knows how to keep things quiet… 🤐
I loved the ending!! ❤️ I wasn’t sure how it would wrap up and it gave me all the closure I was looking for!! This book had me intrigued from the very first page. Lots of drama…A fantastic storyline… a very entertaining read!! Happy pub day… almost!! 😍😉
August 27, 2024
this novel, unfortunately, is the literary epitome of the ‘go girl, give us nothing’ meme
June 14, 2024
I wanted to like this. I really, really wanted to like this.
But....nothing happened? In this entire book? I still have no idea what the conflict or the point of it was, if I'm being honest.
The first 50% of the book is Ren being jealous of Etta and her wealth/connections/life/wanting to be her while simultaneously wanting to hide in the shadows. Then Etta leaves, and she basically becomes her, then it ends.
The book is well written, just....doesn't have any plot? No conflict other than Ren making Etta mad every time she opens her mouth. There were half a dozen ways this could have gone to create an interesting story using these same characters and the same idea but instead it went nowhere. It felt like I was sitting at the beach in the Hamptons listening to rich people talk for 4 hours, then everyone got up in left with no conclusion to the conversation.
I can't even write a full review on this one because it was so flat. The characters ranged from one to three dimensional depending on the page, but each time they started to become well rounded and have a new thought the conversation ended and that flew away.
I don't know, maybe this just wasn't as "for me" as the blurb made me think it was, but I was bored. Which is a shame, because this had potential to be A Simple Favor-esque.
Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC of this book!
But....nothing happened? In this entire book? I still have no idea what the conflict or the point of it was, if I'm being honest.
The first 50% of the book is Ren being jealous of Etta and her wealth/connections/life/wanting to be her while simultaneously wanting to hide in the shadows. Then Etta leaves, and she basically becomes her, then it ends.
The book is well written, just....doesn't have any plot? No conflict other than Ren making Etta mad every time she opens her mouth. There were half a dozen ways this could have gone to create an interesting story using these same characters and the same idea but instead it went nowhere. It felt like I was sitting at the beach in the Hamptons listening to rich people talk for 4 hours, then everyone got up in left with no conclusion to the conversation.
I can't even write a full review on this one because it was so flat. The characters ranged from one to three dimensional depending on the page, but each time they started to become well rounded and have a new thought the conversation ended and that flew away.
I don't know, maybe this just wasn't as "for me" as the blurb made me think it was, but I was bored. Which is a shame, because this had potential to be A Simple Favor-esque.
Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC of this book!
January 17, 2024
It's clear the early reviewers did not read this book, which is not only a disservice to the authors, but to other users of Goodreads. this novel lacked plot, characterization and an overall non delivery of what the synopsis promised. The dialogue just went in circles as the same conversation kept happening nonstop as the plot failed to move-ever.
July 22, 2024
I loved the concept of this story. It felt like watching one of my favorite tv shows like Gossip Girl. Possibly even Saltburn vibes but closed door. It’s a fun light read for beach or pool. It’s mostly about friendships, drama, secrets, wealth, power. It takes place over summer in New York City and the Hamptons. Ren and Etta are best friends they met more than a decade ago at NYU. Their relationship seems complicated. Then add in Etta’s brother, Archer it brings in more drama when him and Ren start a secret relationship. The story is not all that complex it’s just covering their day to day life and add in a little mystery.
September 8, 2024
3.5 - I don’t know why I enjoyed this, but I definitely did. This is more of a “all vibes no plot” kind of book that centers on our MC as she navigates relationships, wealth, class, and the general feeling of being in your 20s. I really liked the writing style - I noticed my own inner monologue began to imitate the style of the book, which happens when I really enjoy a writing style. I liked the main character and her dysfunctional relationships with her best friend, best friend’s brother, her boss, & her father. Overall, good read with a minimal plot, but with depth to the characters.
June 7, 2025
Book Title: The Art of Pretend
Author(s): Lauren Kuhl
Publisher(s): Graydon House/Harlequin Audio
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: I waited WAY too long to read The Art of Pretend by Lauren Kuhl, as evidenced by how much I loved it. Wealthy families and drama is one of my favorite combinations and this book delivered on both of those things along with a dose of toxic relationships.
🤩 𝚃͏𝚑͏𝚎͏ 𝙱͏𝚎͏𝚜͏𝚝͏ 𝙱͏𝚒͏𝚝͏𝚜͏: I was thoroughly addicted to this story of wealth and power, and the juiciness of the secrets absolutely delivered. I spent my time having no idea how the book would wrap up, but it was incredibly satisfying, and I loved it. This is very character driven which I sometimes have difficulty with, but not this time! Kuhl’s writing hooked me immediately and never let me go.
🎧 𝒜𝓊𝒹𝒾𝑜𝒷𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒩𝒶𝓇𝓇𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃: Karissa Vacker is one of my favorite narrators and she made The Art of Pretend and its characters shine. I loved her as the voice of Ren, but she also did a great job bringing the text to life as well. The scene was set by Kuhl and Vacker delivered on the rest!
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: Clearly this book won’t be for everyone if the Goodreads average is anything to go by, but it was the perfect book for me at the perfect time. I am quite surprised that it is a debut, and I imagine I will love any future books from Kuhl. Some parts feel downright uncomfortable, but it is impossible to look away, especially when it comes to Ren and Archer…
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🎨🤑✈️🌆
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Author(s): Lauren Kuhl
Publisher(s): Graydon House/Harlequin Audio
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: I waited WAY too long to read The Art of Pretend by Lauren Kuhl, as evidenced by how much I loved it. Wealthy families and drama is one of my favorite combinations and this book delivered on both of those things along with a dose of toxic relationships.
🤩 𝚃͏𝚑͏𝚎͏ 𝙱͏𝚎͏𝚜͏𝚝͏ 𝙱͏𝚒͏𝚝͏𝚜͏: I was thoroughly addicted to this story of wealth and power, and the juiciness of the secrets absolutely delivered. I spent my time having no idea how the book would wrap up, but it was incredibly satisfying, and I loved it. This is very character driven which I sometimes have difficulty with, but not this time! Kuhl’s writing hooked me immediately and never let me go.
🎧 𝒜𝓊𝒹𝒾𝑜𝒷𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒩𝒶𝓇𝓇𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃: Karissa Vacker is one of my favorite narrators and she made The Art of Pretend and its characters shine. I loved her as the voice of Ren, but she also did a great job bringing the text to life as well. The scene was set by Kuhl and Vacker delivered on the rest!
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: Clearly this book won’t be for everyone if the Goodreads average is anything to go by, but it was the perfect book for me at the perfect time. I am quite surprised that it is a debut, and I imagine I will love any future books from Kuhl. Some parts feel downright uncomfortable, but it is impossible to look away, especially when it comes to Ren and Archer…
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🎨🤑✈️🌆
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 8, 2025
There is a specific genre in romance called: Psychological Dramas. As opposed to Psychological Thrillers: no one dies, there is no criminology or horror effect.
You can have Psychological Dramas on their own: dealing with people manipulating each other but when you add Romance to it! ufffffffff: You get certified Mindfuck à la Tarryn Fisher style (when she used to write fucked romances not suspense thrillers)
What I loved about The Art of Pretend: all characters are morally grey and flawed: you sympathize one moment and the next you rally against them.
FMC: Ren is a 25 PR agent who lives in New York. Like any English major she dreams about being a writer. Yet, she never writes or has the courage to do so.
She's too aware of NY ugliness, and demanding economy and yet she sees the eccentric artsy dreamy part of it.
She's living paycheck to paycheck and yet she's a friends of a Billionaire: her BFF: Etta.
And the relationship between Ren and Etta is imbalanced: you don't know who's taking advantage of whom? Add to that, Archer: Etta's successful gorgeous artist brother.
Ren always had a crush on him but she can't approach him cuz that man hardly recognizes her and when he does he calls her "Etta's sidekick"
And yet, Ren found herself submerged by Archer's charms, his artistic world and weird vine of wealthy friends and connections.
Finally: the he only description I have for the MCs of this novel is that they are: Hypocritically honest!
This book would tick the box of "A new to me author" in my 2025 Bingo Challenge! I don't know why this book has a relatively "low" reviews but I want to tell the author ( if by any chance she could read this)
: please don't stop writing: I have felt your personal struggles in regards to writing especially through Archer's character and his view about art being called that way if only the right people acknowledged it!
Yes, that's the sad truth of our world but it's enough that you acknowledge your work for what it really is: a refreshing piece of literature in a oversaturated sameself romance market!
25 ┃37┃87┃13┃68┃40┃32┃59┃76┃44
10┃86┃4 ┃45┃47┃98┃50┃14┃85┃75
88┃51┃ 9┃2┃42┃29┃ 24┃92┃ 82┃1
100┃34┃17┃96┃43┃49┃64┃70┃15┃38
84┃31┃ 62┃7┃21┃73┃28┃46┃90┃77
3⭕┃12⭕┃80┃ 69┃52⭕┃ 65⭕┃54┃ 91┃23┃ 72
18┃95┃ 22┃99┃93┃74┃41┃8┃35┃ 58
57┃94┃ 16┃56┃ 5┃60┃78┃ 26┃81┃ 61
97┃48┃ 79┃67┃ 53┃30┃ 6┃36┃89┃ 33
71┃19┃ 39┃66┃ 55┃27┃ 20┃63┃ 11┃83
You can have Psychological Dramas on their own: dealing with people manipulating each other but when you add Romance to it! ufffffffff: You get certified Mindfuck à la Tarryn Fisher style (when she used to write fucked romances not suspense thrillers)
What I loved about The Art of Pretend: all characters are morally grey and flawed: you sympathize one moment and the next you rally against them.
FMC: Ren is a 25 PR agent who lives in New York. Like any English major she dreams about being a writer. Yet, she never writes or has the courage to do so.
She's too aware of NY ugliness, and demanding economy and yet she sees the eccentric artsy dreamy part of it.
She's living paycheck to paycheck and yet she's a friends of a Billionaire: her BFF: Etta.
And the relationship between Ren and Etta is imbalanced: you don't know who's taking advantage of whom? Add to that, Archer: Etta's successful gorgeous artist brother.
Ren always had a crush on him but she can't approach him cuz that man hardly recognizes her and when he does he calls her "Etta's sidekick"
And yet, Ren found herself submerged by Archer's charms, his artistic world and weird vine of wealthy friends and connections.
Finally: the he only description I have for the MCs of this novel is that they are: Hypocritically honest!
This book would tick the box of "A new to me author" in my 2025 Bingo Challenge! I don't know why this book has a relatively "low" reviews but I want to tell the author ( if by any chance she could read this)
: please don't stop writing: I have felt your personal struggles in regards to writing especially through Archer's character and his view about art being called that way if only the right people acknowledged it!
Yes, that's the sad truth of our world but it's enough that you acknowledge your work for what it really is: a refreshing piece of literature in a oversaturated sameself romance market!
25 ┃37┃87┃13┃68┃40┃32┃59┃76┃44
10┃86┃4 ┃45┃47┃98┃50┃14┃85┃75
88┃51┃ 9┃2┃42┃29┃ 24┃92┃ 82┃1
100┃34┃17┃96┃43┃49┃64┃70┃15┃38
84┃31┃ 62┃7┃21┃73┃28┃46┃90┃77
3⭕┃12⭕┃80┃ 69┃52⭕┃ 65⭕┃54┃ 91┃23┃ 72
18┃95┃ 22┃99┃93┃74┃41┃8┃35┃ 58
57┃94┃ 16┃56┃ 5┃60┃78┃ 26┃81┃ 61
97┃48┃ 79┃67┃ 53┃30┃ 6┃36┃89┃ 33
71┃19┃ 39┃66┃ 55┃27┃ 20┃63┃ 11┃83
April 14, 2025
I loved how immersive the POV was written, experiencing Ren's thoughts and reactions as she's going about her life. The first half was pretty slow and uneventful, but things picked up a little towards the end. For the most part, I didn't Love the characters and there was a real lack of development there. I spent most of the book thinking, "Girl, just TALK to your best friend!!" Which, honestly, may have been the point.
July 28, 2024
TITLE: THE ART OF PRETEND
AUTHOR: Lauren Kuhl @laurenkuhlwrites
PUB DATE: 07.09.2024
I just love reading about the drama of toxic relationships and a really engrossing character driven story. That is what I found myself in with debut author Lauren Kuhl’s The Art Of Pretend. The writing was exquisite and addictive- and so heartbreaking and exciting, and I was drawn like a moth to a flame - never relinquishing my fingers from turning those pages. At the heart of the story is about wealth, class, and the power some people have and you trying to fit in a world clearly not yours.
Give this book a read if you enjoy reading about beguiling friendships and relationships, forbidden love, money, and power.
I loved this book!
AUTHOR: Lauren Kuhl @laurenkuhlwrites
PUB DATE: 07.09.2024
I just love reading about the drama of toxic relationships and a really engrossing character driven story. That is what I found myself in with debut author Lauren Kuhl’s The Art Of Pretend. The writing was exquisite and addictive- and so heartbreaking and exciting, and I was drawn like a moth to a flame - never relinquishing my fingers from turning those pages. At the heart of the story is about wealth, class, and the power some people have and you trying to fit in a world clearly not yours.
Give this book a read if you enjoy reading about beguiling friendships and relationships, forbidden love, money, and power.
I loved this book!
August 21, 2024
Thank you to Logue Social for the ARC. The gifted copy does not influence my review in any way.
Happy pub day to this entertaining, drama infused debut! First of all, Lauren is a great writer and I can’t wait to see how she grows and finds more of her style and voice. I BINGED this book because- well- the characters are so problematic!
I’m sure Lauren didn’t intend for us to actually like the love interest, but she made him a bit too redeemable and charming (we feel you Ren). Still, as a reader, I was certainly frustrated with our MC for letting people treat her so poorly and for her trying to overcompensate in uncomfortable situations. And that’s the point!
All the characters are frustrating because they’re so flawed. This book reads like a Gossip Girl storyline- so yes! You’ll be super entertained (they were all problematic too). I needed a read like this where it’s just enjoyable and you can’t peel your eyes away. I stayed up until 2am finishing this book because I HAD to know what would happen to Ren and her forbidden romance (best friend’s brother anyone?).
You won’t find any true character development in this book, and that was fine with me because the book is meant to keep your attention because it’s a huge mess (the characters, not the book itself). Definitely pick this up if you want a storyline that keeps you turning pages just to see what hot mess comes next.
Anyway, thanks to Lauren for dealing with my screaming on socials as I read her novel. Now I can scream with everyone else since the book is out. Enjoy! And let me know if you ship Ren with Archer 👀.
Happy pub day to this entertaining, drama infused debut! First of all, Lauren is a great writer and I can’t wait to see how she grows and finds more of her style and voice. I BINGED this book because- well- the characters are so problematic!
I’m sure Lauren didn’t intend for us to actually like the love interest, but she made him a bit too redeemable and charming (we feel you Ren). Still, as a reader, I was certainly frustrated with our MC for letting people treat her so poorly and for her trying to overcompensate in uncomfortable situations. And that’s the point!
All the characters are frustrating because they’re so flawed. This book reads like a Gossip Girl storyline- so yes! You’ll be super entertained (they were all problematic too). I needed a read like this where it’s just enjoyable and you can’t peel your eyes away. I stayed up until 2am finishing this book because I HAD to know what would happen to Ren and her forbidden romance (best friend’s brother anyone?).
You won’t find any true character development in this book, and that was fine with me because the book is meant to keep your attention because it’s a huge mess (the characters, not the book itself). Definitely pick this up if you want a storyline that keeps you turning pages just to see what hot mess comes next.
Anyway, thanks to Lauren for dealing with my screaming on socials as I read her novel. Now I can scream with everyone else since the book is out. Enjoy! And let me know if you ship Ren with Archer 👀.
July 15, 2024
I don’t know what to make of this book! I saw somewhere there was a Gossip Girl reference, and so that interested me immediately. But I would have to say it’s more like an older version, with perhaps some of the burnouts maybe? The whole book also felt kind of dark; I couldn’t quite put a finger on why, but later realized that Ren (the FMC) has a depressing feel to her. Maybe because she’s stuck in a job that she doesn’t love, but can’t leave because she lacks the financial security her best friend, Etta has. Ren also never feels very confident about herself, and so I felt kind of dragged down while I was reading this. Nonetheless, I sped through this book at an incredible speed, and did not want to put it down.
The pessimist in me (brought out more while I was reading this), could not see a happy ending coming. I just thought there was no way she would end up with this guy so above her station (financially and status-wise), and I doubted Ren would ever take a risk on pursuing her dream career. I don’t like to include spoilers, so I won’t discuss the end. But it’s driving me crazy- I want someone to talk to about this book so bad! If a darker Gossip Girl, or just reading about the lives of the rich and elite, sounds interesting to you, you should definitely pick this one up!
The pessimist in me (brought out more while I was reading this), could not see a happy ending coming. I just thought there was no way she would end up with this guy so above her station (financially and status-wise), and I doubted Ren would ever take a risk on pursuing her dream career. I don’t like to include spoilers, so I won’t discuss the end. But it’s driving me crazy- I want someone to talk to about this book so bad! If a darker Gossip Girl, or just reading about the lives of the rich and elite, sounds interesting to you, you should definitely pick this one up!
July 13, 2024
This was kind of a combination of boring and annoying I haven’t read for a long time. I know it was meant to be an aggravating story, no one ever saying what they mean until it comes out like drunken word salad, therapy double speak, rich assholes treating their own children and everyone around them as something to be used. I was ready for it to end. It’s a story where none of the characters are endearing, and I don’t need that at all as a reader. Etta was the closest thing to an interesting character, but she was almost too easy to hate, and not witty enough to make an impact. Although I feel like Archer was written as this golden boy, whisking Ren everywhere in artworld, he never really had any charm or sensuality to convince me of this. To me all of the characters fell flat. I can see the comparisons to Saltburn and Sweetbitter, especially in the beginning, but this just wasn’t as good.
October 17, 2024
The struggle was real getting through this book. I liked the Gossip Girl vibes but the book was very slow moving. The ending still has me somewhat confused. Almost incomplete. lol.
July 27, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Graydon House for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Ren has a love hate relationship with her best friend Etta. They met during their time studying at NYU, and stayed in touch afterwards. They could not be more different though, Ren grew up in small town Connecticut, comes from a broken family, and has to earn everything she has. Etta grew up with money and privilege, and is more than happy to share the wealth and include Ren in her world. So when Etta moves to Spain out of nowhere, Ren is left to figure out what type of NYC is within her means.
Luckily for her Archer, Etta's older brother takes a sudden interest in her and includes her in his art world. Ren feels like she has it all now, included in a lavoucious lifestyle and a romance she has wished for. While things with Archer grow, she keeps their relationship a secret and lies to her best friend afraid it will mean the end of their friendship. The more she lies, the more she has keep track of and the closer she gets to it all blowing up in her face.
I really enjoy books about ordinary people getting sucked into the lives and the rich and famous. No character was likeable, yet you couldn't help but sympathize with them. The character dynamics were all so well done, the way everyone were frenemies made it so interesting. The plot did keep my attention but was nothing revolutionary. It was very readable and entertaining.
Ren has a love hate relationship with her best friend Etta. They met during their time studying at NYU, and stayed in touch afterwards. They could not be more different though, Ren grew up in small town Connecticut, comes from a broken family, and has to earn everything she has. Etta grew up with money and privilege, and is more than happy to share the wealth and include Ren in her world. So when Etta moves to Spain out of nowhere, Ren is left to figure out what type of NYC is within her means.
Luckily for her Archer, Etta's older brother takes a sudden interest in her and includes her in his art world. Ren feels like she has it all now, included in a lavoucious lifestyle and a romance she has wished for. While things with Archer grow, she keeps their relationship a secret and lies to her best friend afraid it will mean the end of their friendship. The more she lies, the more she has keep track of and the closer she gets to it all blowing up in her face.
I really enjoy books about ordinary people getting sucked into the lives and the rich and famous. No character was likeable, yet you couldn't help but sympathize with them. The character dynamics were all so well done, the way everyone were frenemies made it so interesting. The plot did keep my attention but was nothing revolutionary. It was very readable and entertaining.
January 18, 2026
I have honestly just wasted my time with this book. It felt like it was trying to be all introspective drama and not quite committing to any of it in a satisfying way.
Ren is easy to sympathise with: stuck in an unremarkable life while orbiting Etta’s designer-clad world, she’s meant to represent that universal identity crisis of your twenties. But instead of genuine growth, her arc often reads like repeated self-doubt without real payoff: she flits between craving belonging and resenting those who have it yet rarely takes bold action for herself.
Then there’s the romance with Archer, Etta’s older brother. He’s technically charismatic and intriguing but his emotional depth never quite emerges beyond being interesting in theory. Their relationship ripples with chemistry and complications but it can feel like surface sparkle over meaningful connection. I felt like felt like we were watching a script where everyone talks about transformation without actually transforming.
Too often the plot circled familiar tropes rather than pushing them in unexpected or satisfying directions.
Overall, this book had an intriguing wardrobe but undercooked character arcs.
Ren is easy to sympathise with: stuck in an unremarkable life while orbiting Etta’s designer-clad world, she’s meant to represent that universal identity crisis of your twenties. But instead of genuine growth, her arc often reads like repeated self-doubt without real payoff: she flits between craving belonging and resenting those who have it yet rarely takes bold action for herself.
Then there’s the romance with Archer, Etta’s older brother. He’s technically charismatic and intriguing but his emotional depth never quite emerges beyond being interesting in theory. Their relationship ripples with chemistry and complications but it can feel like surface sparkle over meaningful connection. I felt like felt like we were watching a script where everyone talks about transformation without actually transforming.
Too often the plot circled familiar tropes rather than pushing them in unexpected or satisfying directions.
Overall, this book had an intriguing wardrobe but undercooked character arcs.
June 5, 2025
What this book wanted to be and what this book is are two very different things. Every single character was absolutely insufferable, and more than in a way that makes them human. They were all the worst. That being said - the story had SO MUCH potential, I couldn’t stop reading to see if it was going to live up to it. I flew through this, and it could have been SO GOOD. Ultimately, it tried to do too much at once and fell flat, the dialogue wonky and unrealistic and the inner monologue forced and contrived.
Also, the ending made no sense.
Also, the ending made no sense.
May 8, 2025
Oh come ON. I think the author could have given us a JUICY ENDING. Everything was going so good and then the ending was like…that???
Still 4 stars.
Still 4 stars.
July 20, 2024
I was not expecting to like this book as much as I did. For most of the story, I thought it was all about class difference and elitism. However, the ending totally took a turn I was not expecting. It made some of the slow parts worth it!
February 11, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up! i really enjoyed this! it’s a bit of opulent escapism interspersed with realism, dealing with themes of insecurity, money, ambition and status —yes, it’s very Gossip Girl-esque! this story, however, is more than just glitz and glamour. it’s an intriguing character study that focuses on main character, Ren, who lives and works among the wealthy and social elite. yes, she is able to participate in a luxe lifestyle, thanks to her best friend, Etta, yet she knows she is still an outsider.
i like Ren—she has strengths and talents but rarely showcases them. she and Etta’s friendship, though years long, is complex. early on it becomes clear that her identity has become so wrapped around Etta that when she finds out that Etta is moving to Spain, Ren is left feeling off balance. she is unsure of what it means, both for her own future and how it will impact their relationship. as it turns out, Etta has a brother, Archer, and he agrees to “keep an eye out” for Ren—you can probably guess where this is going…
another standout is the author’s writing. there is fluff and name dropping but the dialogue is engagingww and sharp; conversations offer insight into the characters (some of which are quick witted and funny), and were thought-provoking.
if you enjoy books that take you into the world of “rich people problems” with drama and romance, i highly recommend this book! ✨
i like Ren—she has strengths and talents but rarely showcases them. she and Etta’s friendship, though years long, is complex. early on it becomes clear that her identity has become so wrapped around Etta that when she finds out that Etta is moving to Spain, Ren is left feeling off balance. she is unsure of what it means, both for her own future and how it will impact their relationship. as it turns out, Etta has a brother, Archer, and he agrees to “keep an eye out” for Ren—you can probably guess where this is going…
another standout is the author’s writing. there is fluff and name dropping but the dialogue is engagingww and sharp; conversations offer insight into the characters (some of which are quick witted and funny), and were thought-provoking.
if you enjoy books that take you into the world of “rich people problems” with drama and romance, i highly recommend this book! ✨
December 30, 2024
undercooked
July 28, 2024
I thought this was really well written, kept my interest, fully engaged. But then why 2 stars? This is such a difficult book to rate and review. For a debut I thought it was quite good. But I was so frustrated with the female main character and the ending had me throwing the book against the wall.
Ren and Etta meet in college and become fast friends. Ren comes from nothing while Etta is wealthy. Ren enjoys the glamour that comes from being friends with etta but she also really likes Etta, or so she thinks. Ren works at a PR firm and loves/hates her job (I mean, don't we all?!). Etta is continuing to find herself, until her parents decide a year in Spain would be good for her. Etta doesn't tell Ren until the last minute and Ren feels betrayed. But she says nothing. Etta asks her to stay in her apartment .. or rather, her huge penthouse(!) and Ren feels so beholden to Etta already but of course she says yes.
Then Ren meets Archer, Etta's older handsome brother who is an artist. And of course he's handsome because that's what this book is filled with. And they make a connection and start to surreptitiously have a relationship in NYC while Etta is in Spain. Ren doesn't tell her because she doesn't think Etta would like it. And Archer sort of hides Ren as well.
This is what then bothered me so much about this book. Nothing happens. Nothing happens! So much of it is nothing happening but Ren working, Ren meeting up with Archer, Ren occasionally texting Etta, Ren never connecting with her dad.
Ren does travel to Spain to visit Etta for her birthday and that's when things blow up.
So, even though a 2 star rating, I did enjoy this book! I know ... weird!
Ren and Etta meet in college and become fast friends. Ren comes from nothing while Etta is wealthy. Ren enjoys the glamour that comes from being friends with etta but she also really likes Etta, or so she thinks. Ren works at a PR firm and loves/hates her job (I mean, don't we all?!). Etta is continuing to find herself, until her parents decide a year in Spain would be good for her. Etta doesn't tell Ren until the last minute and Ren feels betrayed. But she says nothing. Etta asks her to stay in her apartment .. or rather, her huge penthouse(!) and Ren feels so beholden to Etta already but of course she says yes.
Then Ren meets Archer, Etta's older handsome brother who is an artist. And of course he's handsome because that's what this book is filled with. And they make a connection and start to surreptitiously have a relationship in NYC while Etta is in Spain. Ren doesn't tell her because she doesn't think Etta would like it. And Archer sort of hides Ren as well.
This is what then bothered me so much about this book. Nothing happens. Nothing happens! So much of it is nothing happening but Ren working, Ren meeting up with Archer, Ren occasionally texting Etta, Ren never connecting with her dad.
Ren does travel to Spain to visit Etta for her birthday and that's when things blow up.
So, even though a 2 star rating, I did enjoy this book! I know ... weird!
September 5, 2024
THE ART OF PRETEND is a New York City coming-of-age with all the trappings of what happens when you ingratiate yourself with the wealthy. Kuhl taps into the haves and the have-nots as Ren moves further into a world that will change her forever.
I will be honest. There are moments when Ren’s personality and relationship with Etta grated on me. In the beginning, it seemed a bit too much. I wanted to yell through the pages as if Ren could hear me telling her to stop and stand up for herself. And then, I had to remember what it was like in my twenties in NYC. So I gave her a little slack and continued. As the reader moves through the ups and downs of Ren’s life, valuable lessons are being learned along the way. Her evolution by the end isn’t a completely different person, but there is a satisfying move towards understanding her worth and surrounding herself with the right people for her.
This book blurs the line between the desperate need to be part of something and caring about a friendship. Kuhl brings to the page an observant eye and carefully placed moments where the character shows their true selves. It also doesn’t hurt the narrative to have the background of the glitz and glam of a more affluent New York scene.
THE ART OF PRETEND is about love, friendship, the power money allows certain people to have, and discovering who you are when change happens.
Reviewer Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Highly Caffeinated Rating of… ☕ ☕ ☕
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Follow the Art, Books, & Coffee:
Website | Instagram | Facebook Group
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
I will be honest. There are moments when Ren’s personality and relationship with Etta grated on me. In the beginning, it seemed a bit too much. I wanted to yell through the pages as if Ren could hear me telling her to stop and stand up for herself. And then, I had to remember what it was like in my twenties in NYC. So I gave her a little slack and continued. As the reader moves through the ups and downs of Ren’s life, valuable lessons are being learned along the way. Her evolution by the end isn’t a completely different person, but there is a satisfying move towards understanding her worth and surrounding herself with the right people for her.
This book blurs the line between the desperate need to be part of something and caring about a friendship. Kuhl brings to the page an observant eye and carefully placed moments where the character shows their true selves. It also doesn’t hurt the narrative to have the background of the glitz and glam of a more affluent New York scene.
THE ART OF PRETEND is about love, friendship, the power money allows certain people to have, and discovering who you are when change happens.
Reviewer Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Highly Caffeinated Rating of… ☕ ☕ ☕
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Follow the Art, Books, & Coffee:
Website | Instagram | Facebook Group
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
December 25, 2023
Synopsis (From Netgalley, the provider of the book to review)
*******************************************************
A tantalizing debut about a woman drawn into the orbit of her friend's wealthy artist family in New York City and the complications and consequences that arise when she embarks on a secret relationship with the golden-boy older brother
Ren loves and hates Etta, her best friend since they met at NYU nearly a decade ago. Etta defines Ren's New York. She lavishes her with designer hand-me-downs and takes her along to parties at trust fund lofts and Hamptons estates. But when Etta moves to Barcelona with no warning, Ren is left to face who she is without her, her unremarkable life of shoebox apartment, thankless job, and estranged family.
Enter Archer, Etta’s older brother, whom Ren’s always been infatuated with. In his sister’s absence, suddenly he’s inviting Ren to visit his art gallery, to prestigious galas, on weekend trips with his friends to Amagansett. Archer’s interest makes Ren feel alive in whole new ways, but she knows Etta can't find out. As their relationship intensifies, so does her unease. If it all blows up, who will she be on the other side?
Set over a heady New York summer, The Art of Pretend is an alluring debut about love and friendship, wealth and power, art and ambition—and the stories we tell others and ourselves to get what we want.
Very Gossip Girl (original, not the awful reboot) at heart this was a fun book to read that screams TAKE ME TO THE BEACH! Full of memorable characters and relatable interpersonal relationships (envy, pride…face it all of the Seven Deadly Sins) you will inhale this book and wait expectedly for this new author’s second book! #shortbutsweetreviews
*******************************************************
A tantalizing debut about a woman drawn into the orbit of her friend's wealthy artist family in New York City and the complications and consequences that arise when she embarks on a secret relationship with the golden-boy older brother
Ren loves and hates Etta, her best friend since they met at NYU nearly a decade ago. Etta defines Ren's New York. She lavishes her with designer hand-me-downs and takes her along to parties at trust fund lofts and Hamptons estates. But when Etta moves to Barcelona with no warning, Ren is left to face who she is without her, her unremarkable life of shoebox apartment, thankless job, and estranged family.
Enter Archer, Etta’s older brother, whom Ren’s always been infatuated with. In his sister’s absence, suddenly he’s inviting Ren to visit his art gallery, to prestigious galas, on weekend trips with his friends to Amagansett. Archer’s interest makes Ren feel alive in whole new ways, but she knows Etta can't find out. As their relationship intensifies, so does her unease. If it all blows up, who will she be on the other side?
Set over a heady New York summer, The Art of Pretend is an alluring debut about love and friendship, wealth and power, art and ambition—and the stories we tell others and ourselves to get what we want.
Very Gossip Girl (original, not the awful reboot) at heart this was a fun book to read that screams TAKE ME TO THE BEACH! Full of memorable characters and relatable interpersonal relationships (envy, pride…face it all of the Seven Deadly Sins) you will inhale this book and wait expectedly for this new author’s second book! #shortbutsweetreviews
July 23, 2024
If you've ever known toxic relationships, then this book is one that will give you pause to reflect on your own experiences. Ren and Etta's friendship dynamic reminded me a lot of the girls I was "friends" with in my past. As I read this book, sometimes I felt bad for Ren for being treated the way that she was, but then at the same time I'm angry with her as well for not changing the course of things. But in reality, I'm not mad at her at all because I totally get it. The lies, the subversions, all of it. There's a comfort in not wanting conflict and I've always been someone that tried HARD to avoid any kind of conflict, even when that meant putting myself in bad situations.
There's a strange anomoly that happens for people who don't like conflict. We will continue to fall down these rabbit holes of making others happy to our own detriment. Until it all starts crumbling down, which is always does eventually. That was the symphonic element of this story: watching that crescendo build as Ren continued to try to spare herself and bad feelings or experiences, but in the wake of it all creating an even larger tsunami that came washing down over her.
Ren is a reminder of who we have been, and a shove in the direction of who we want to be. She's slightly self destructive, but who isn't in this story? I really enjoyed watching her progress though. As the last portions of the book really highlight her steps in the right direction, I think, for healthy development. Etta on the other hand, I wanted to like her in the beginning, but wasn't able to hold onto it as the story went along. Conversely, Etta's brother Archer grew on me throughout and by the end, I felt comfortable with where all the dust settled.
A wonderful read that will provide plenty of self introspection!
There's a strange anomoly that happens for people who don't like conflict. We will continue to fall down these rabbit holes of making others happy to our own detriment. Until it all starts crumbling down, which is always does eventually. That was the symphonic element of this story: watching that crescendo build as Ren continued to try to spare herself and bad feelings or experiences, but in the wake of it all creating an even larger tsunami that came washing down over her.
Ren is a reminder of who we have been, and a shove in the direction of who we want to be. She's slightly self destructive, but who isn't in this story? I really enjoyed watching her progress though. As the last portions of the book really highlight her steps in the right direction, I think, for healthy development. Etta on the other hand, I wanted to like her in the beginning, but wasn't able to hold onto it as the story went along. Conversely, Etta's brother Archer grew on me throughout and by the end, I felt comfortable with where all the dust settled.
A wonderful read that will provide plenty of self introspection!
August 16, 2024
First the positives. I feel like this book is well-paced, even though there really is no plot (lol), I actively turned each page wanting to know what happened next. Even Archer and Ren’s relationship felt very organic and well-paced. Part of me was rooting for them, even after everything that Archer did. Also, the twist (I won't spoil) was actually really well done. Some hints were dropped here and there but they completely went over my head, in a good way. The twist was truly a surprise but it wasn’t so out of left field that it felt out of place. The author also adds a lot of depth to all the characters, however they never really become actualized. They are always so close to being like real three-dimensional people, however whenever they get to that point the author just drops it and moves on to the next character. Ren, for example. She is definitely not perfect but you emphasize with her and the person she wants to become. However, she never moves on from that. The whole book people tell her to take what she wants, to reach for her dreams-and she never does it. Maybe the book is trying to tell the audience about the cold realities of life, that you can never truly break out from the status quo. Ren trades the PR job she hates to another job at an ad agency and a lot of other things that I won't mention because they are spoilers. Perhaps I am not understanding the grander meaning the author is trying to share but personally, it was so frustrating seeing Ren not grow as a person at all. In the end, this book has great potential but it falls short in having any story arch/development.
January 4, 2025
I've been searching for a book that could fill a hole in my heart after watching Sex and the City, and I came across this book recommendation from TikTok. Initially, I was intrigued by the prose. As a twenty-two-year-old living in NYC, I'm a sucker for any media about young people exploring their lives in NYC. While I will say the book does remind me a lot of Sex and the City, mainly the flawed protagonist and the upper-class lifestyle mixed with a dash of realism, I don't think the protagonist is as relatable as everyone is saying in other reviews, excusing her behavior and saying "oh, but I remember how I was in my twenties." If anything, Ren's behavior reminded me of how I was in high school: insecure and always calculating my social interactions because knowing the "right people" mattered so much for being popular.
There were many times when I was frustrated at how co-dependent Ren was. I genuinely wanted to tell her she needed to stand up and experience life with her only and full responsibility. Maybe it's because, as a person, I pride myself on being independent, so this could be a personality clash that I have with the main character. Still, invoking this annoyance shows that the writer did a good job getting the reader to invest themselves enough to have these feelings. Reading this book also made me realize some actions I exhibited in the past with my romantic relationships and how I like being in control much more than I thought. Overall, this was a good read, invoking similar feelings of watching a 90s movie or Sex and the City. If you're bored of watching shows, give this book a try.
There were many times when I was frustrated at how co-dependent Ren was. I genuinely wanted to tell her she needed to stand up and experience life with her only and full responsibility. Maybe it's because, as a person, I pride myself on being independent, so this could be a personality clash that I have with the main character. Still, invoking this annoyance shows that the writer did a good job getting the reader to invest themselves enough to have these feelings. Reading this book also made me realize some actions I exhibited in the past with my romantic relationships and how I like being in control much more than I thought. Overall, this was a good read, invoking similar feelings of watching a 90s movie or Sex and the City. If you're bored of watching shows, give this book a try.
June 12, 2024
I was invited to read an ARC of this book and after reading the synopsis I decided to give it a try. It sounded like a good summertime read and I was hoping it would get me out of a little reading slump.
The book started out good and I was quickly absorbed into the NYC lives of Ren and her rich friend Etta. I thought this was indeed the book that would get me out of my slump. But then....
This book seemed to go nowhere. I've heard of slow burn books but this book barely smoked. It was the same thing over and over. Ren followed who she was supposed to, whether it was Etta or Archer, to whatever event they were going to. Then she basically seemed ignored everytime when they chose their rich friends over her. I got bored quickly with this and kept hoping for something or anything to happen.
The climax of the book fell flat too. I won't say anything so as not to spoil for future readers but it kind of made sense but still wasn't very climatic.
Maybe I am too old for this book. I got tired of reading about rich people who did absolutely nothing but party and mingle and look down on Ren. But at the same time I couldn't really have much empathy for her. She kept putting up with it while seeming blind to it happening. Again, maybe I'm just too old for this type of story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
The book started out good and I was quickly absorbed into the NYC lives of Ren and her rich friend Etta. I thought this was indeed the book that would get me out of my slump. But then....
This book seemed to go nowhere. I've heard of slow burn books but this book barely smoked. It was the same thing over and over. Ren followed who she was supposed to, whether it was Etta or Archer, to whatever event they were going to. Then she basically seemed ignored everytime when they chose their rich friends over her. I got bored quickly with this and kept hoping for something or anything to happen.
The climax of the book fell flat too. I won't say anything so as not to spoil for future readers but it kind of made sense but still wasn't very climatic.
Maybe I am too old for this book. I got tired of reading about rich people who did absolutely nothing but party and mingle and look down on Ren. But at the same time I couldn't really have much empathy for her. She kept putting up with it while seeming blind to it happening. Again, maybe I'm just too old for this type of story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
June 21, 2024
In Lauren Kuhl’s debut novel The Art of Pretend, protagonist Ren is a bit of a lost soul. Her apartment is less desirable, her job is thankless, and her love life is unrequited; this is not the life she envisioned when she graduated from NYU.
Ren wants more out of life, but it is hard to find the motivation, and it does not help she has been stuck being her best friend Etta’s shadow since college. When Etta leaves for Barcelona, Ren finds herself lost and lonely and latches on to the next best thing: Etta’s brother Archer. As their relationship deepens, Ren finds herself unsure of what she wants, and at risk of losing everything.
This is a bit reminiscent of early Bret Easton Ellis (but without (most of) the sex and drugs), with the brooding tone of overprivileged intellectuals who lack self-awareness. As a result, the reader feels invested in characters who are either not the most likable (Etta) or too aloof (Archer). This is likely the result of Ren being the sole narrator; it would have been more compelling and added more depth had Etta and Archer’s points of view also been shared.
While the plot moves slowly, it is well-written and a solid debut. Kuhl captures the environment well, and fans of Saltburn and Gossip Girl will appreciate the atmosphere she creates. It will be interesting to see what Kuhl does next.
Ren wants more out of life, but it is hard to find the motivation, and it does not help she has been stuck being her best friend Etta’s shadow since college. When Etta leaves for Barcelona, Ren finds herself lost and lonely and latches on to the next best thing: Etta’s brother Archer. As their relationship deepens, Ren finds herself unsure of what she wants, and at risk of losing everything.
This is a bit reminiscent of early Bret Easton Ellis (but without (most of) the sex and drugs), with the brooding tone of overprivileged intellectuals who lack self-awareness. As a result, the reader feels invested in characters who are either not the most likable (Etta) or too aloof (Archer). This is likely the result of Ren being the sole narrator; it would have been more compelling and added more depth had Etta and Archer’s points of view also been shared.
While the plot moves slowly, it is well-written and a solid debut. Kuhl captures the environment well, and fans of Saltburn and Gossip Girl will appreciate the atmosphere she creates. It will be interesting to see what Kuhl does next.
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