The Art of Façades

Rhys Morgan should be happy.

He is valedictorian, has supporting, loving parents, and lives an expensive life, but he is far from happy. On top of struggling with his identity, Rhys has trouble connecting with others and feels dissociated from his peers. He is well-known to be a social outcast in Cedar Creek High, thus making him an easy target for bullies. In a school that vilifies anything outside their norm, Rhys cannot be himself. He battles with self esteem, dysphoria, communication, and confidence, but who would know if a smile is always on his freckled face?

Prudence Flores should be happy.

She is beautiful-the type of beauty that is celebrated and revered, the type of beauty that quickly makes her the most popular girl at her new school, Cedar Creek High. Though the attention comes with perks, Prudence hates it and tries her best to deflect the attention by being someone she's not: a mean girl. While Prudence is forced to navigate a world that is both with and against her, she is plagued by the trauma of her past. But for the sake of her little brother, Jude, she must keep her head held high even when it feels like everything is going wrong.

Find out what happens when two people who hide behind facades form a friendship that teaches them to be vulnerable and break down their walls. This is a story of overcoming inner turmoil, trauma, discovering self-identity, and finding compassion for oneself. Join Rhys and Prudence in their journey towards self-love and acceptance.

Spoiler Alert: this is not a romance.
TW//mentions of sexual assault, suicide, and self-harm