It's All in Your Head: A Novel

Skylar, who lives with a rare neurological condition, has sworn off offline relationships. She spends her time in an online chronic pain support group, where she's recently noticed Pike, an attractive new member who shares broody poetry. When a chaotic group moment forces her to pose as his girlfriend, she agrees to maintain the fake relationship in real life. Pike proves to be thoughtful and sweet, unbothered by the chronic illness that has deterred others. Skylar later discovers Pike is a professional Olympic snowboarder whose career-ending injury and dating history are well-known. He avoids discussing either topic, insisting he's fine. However, pretending to be in love with Skylar becomes the least depressing thing he's done in months. As they spend time together, Skylar notices cracks in his carefully constructed image, and Pike allows himself to be truly seen. Their late-night conversations and physical closeness make it increasingly difficult to maintain the pretense. When paparazzi learn about their relationship and begin asking invasive questions about the Olympic medalist's post-accident life, the couple faces new challenges. Public speculation and media attention test whether their genuine feelings can survive the spotlight, threatening their relationship before it fully begins.