The Trial Period is a fun take on the fake dating trope, with outgoing Parker and shy introvert Lizzie, who are constantly bickering, being dared by their mutual best friend Camille to “date” for a month to try to work out their issues. The two immediately shut it down, but the more they think about it, the more they’re intrigued by the idea. 

Parker is a bit self-centered, not really thinking about the people around her and how her actions and behaviors affect them, but she’s also a bit insecure. Lizzie has some serious anxiety issues and struggles to get out of her shell. As the two of them spend more time together they start to bring out better qualities in the other, and the bickering turns into banter. I do wish we got to see a bit more of Camille, but there are some fun side characters, like the kids who run a hot chocolate/bad advice booth downtown and some of the other students involved in the school musical, and there are even some drag queens. 

This is definitely a YA book. They’re in high school, and some of the actions and decisions they make are ones that make sense for a teenager but wouldn’t be something I would expect from an adult. I did really enjoy the characters and the plot, it made sense and flowed well. If you’re into YA, The Trial Period is one I’d recommend. 

I received a free ARC from NetGalley, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.