This work provides a concise synthesis of the key insights and analysis of the book. It is an independent summary, not the original book, and has no affiliation with or endorsement from the original publication. Created for readers who want a clear, thought-provoking overview, it distills the central themes and ideas while preserving the depth and relevance of the work.
When Cleo, a determined doctoral student with no time for romance, stumbles across Javi’s dating profile, she doesn’t expect her life to change. But their shared obsession with a quirky ’90s game show, Know Your Newlywed, sparks a connection that neither can ignore. When the show is rebooted, Cleo and Javi pretend to be married in order to compete, driven by the promise of prize money that could fund their dreams. What begins as a playful scheme soon evolves into something dangerously real as their chemistry deepens under the glare of the cameras. Yet deception weighs heavily on Cleo, and her guilt threatens to destroy not only their chances of winning but also the fragile love that has taken root. Equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and poignant, this romantic comedy asks how well you can really know someone—and how much of yourself you’re willing to risk for love.