Lynn Painter Announces New YA Novel 'Trust Fall'

The bestselling author's latest book follows a teen's move from Nebraska to New York City after an unexpected inheritance.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 9:00pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Bestselling author Lynn Painter is set to release her new YA novel 'Trust Fall' on September 29, 2026. The book follows Julia, a teen who moves from small-town Nebraska to New York City after receiving a surprising inheritance. There, she crosses paths with Damion, the great-nephew of Julia's benefactor, leading to a complicated relationship as they navigate their new lives in the Big Apple.

Why it matters

Painter's previous novels, including the hit 'Better Than the Movies,' have resonated with young adult readers, who have embraced her heartwarming rom-coms. 'Trust Fall' continues Painter's exploration of themes like trust, friendship, and finding one's place, set against the backdrop of the iconic New York City.

The details

In 'Trust Fall,' Julia unexpectedly inherits a brownstone on the Upper West Side, leading her to leave her small Nebraska town and enroll in an elite New York prep school. There, she crosses paths with Damion, the great-nephew of her benefactor, who harbors resentment towards Julia's family. As the two get to know each other, their initial animosity gives way to a growing connection, even as they both grapple with trust issues.

  • Lynn Painter's new novel 'Trust Fall' will be released on September 29, 2026.
  • Painter recently visited New York City in January to conduct research for the book, exploring the Upper West Side and taking the subway to better understand the setting.

The players

Lynn Painter

An acclaimed author known for her bestselling young adult rom-coms, including 'Better Than the Movies' and 'Fake Skating.'

Julia

The protagonist of 'Trust Fall,' a teen who moves from Nebraska to New York City after receiving a surprising inheritance.

Damion

The great-nephew of Julia's benefactor, who initially clashes with Julia but slowly develops a connection with her as they navigate their new lives in New York City.

Sarah Creeche

The head of the art department at Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, who worked with the artist to create the cover for 'Trust Fall.'

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

The publisher of Lynn Painter's new novel 'Trust Fall.'

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's so funny how these things happen. It was just so perfect!”

— Lynn Painter, Author

“It was really fun to kind of throw some of that in.”

— Lynn Painter, Author

“It's been the most incredible ride.”

— Lynn Painter, Author

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Lynn Painter's 'Trust Fall' continues her tradition of crafting heartwarming young adult stories, this time set against the backdrop of New York City and exploring themes of trust, friendship, and finding one's place in the world.