Title: Faking It
Author: Jennifer Crusie
First published January 1, 2002
448 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780312932787 (ISBN10: 0312932782)
Rating: 3.92
Overview
MEET THE DECEPTION EXPERTS. The Goodnights are a well-respected family running an art gallery for generations, but they have a secret they’re willing to protect at all costs.
Matilda, the youngest daughter, is determined to keep it hidden, even if it means breaking into someone’s house in the dead of night to steal back her past. Meanwhile, Davy, a reformed con man, has just lost three million dollars to Clea, the most beautiful sociopath he’s ever met.
He’ll do whatever it takes to get his money back, including breaking into her house. But when Tilda and Davy find themselves in a closet together during a heist, they realize they might have to team up to defeat Clea and her cohorts.
With a mutant dachshund, an old jukebox, and questionable sex, they’ll have to navigate the risks of deception and love to come out on top.
About the Author
Jenny Crusie, a renowned author with over twenty novels and various other written works under her belt, recently released her latest novel, Maybe This Time, in August of 2010. Currently residing near the Ohio River, Jenny can often be found gazing at the ceiling as she reflects on her many blessings.
Editoral Review
Faking It by Jennifer Crusie is a witty, energetic, and engaging romantic comedy that explores the themes of identity, art, and family. With her signature blend of humor and heart, Crusie delivers a delightful tale filled with memorable characters, clever dialogue, and surprising twists.
Jennifer Crusie is a bestselling author known for her smart and sassy heroines, steamy romances, and offbeat humor. Her novels have been translated into over 20 languages and adapted into movies and television shows.
Faking It is one of her most beloved works, praised for its sparkling prose, delicious romance, and spot-on satire. Set in the fictional town of Midwestern, Faking It follows the adventures of a motley crew of con artists, art forgers, and art critics who team up to steal a famous painting and replace it with a fake.
At the center of the caper are two unlikely lovers: Tilda Goodnight, a struggling artist and art restorer, and Davy Dempsey, a charming rogue with a troubled past. Together, they navigate the treacherous waters of love and deception while trying to outsmart their rivals and save their own skins.
Crusie’s writing is sharp, witty, and highly entertaining. She creates vivid and memorable characters who are both flawed and lovable, from Tilda’s eccentric family to Davy’s wacky friends.
Her dialogue crackles with humor and tension, and she has a knack for creating memorable one-liners and zingers. The pacing is brisk and engaging, with plenty of intrigue, suspense, and romance.
One of the strengths of Faking It is its exploration of art and its relationship to authenticity, creativity, and commerce. Crusie shows how art can be both a source of inspiration and a tool of exploitation, how it can reveal the truth and mask it, how it can bring people together and tear them apart.
She also tackles issues of family dynamics, identity, and self-discovery, as her characters struggle to find their place in the world and reconcile their conflicting desires. However, Faking It is not without its flaws.
Some readers may find the plot convoluted or predictable, and others may take issue with the portrayal of certain characters or the use of stereotypes. Additionally, some of the humor may not resonate with all readers, as it relies heavily on pop culture references and quirky wordplay.
Overall, Faking It is a delightful and entertaining romantic comedy that offers plenty of laughs, drama, and heart. Fans of Jennifer Crusie will not be disappointed, and readers who enjoy smart, funny, and heartwarming stories will find much to enjoy.
It is a perfect escape from the stresses of daily life, and a reminder of the power of love, art, and creativity to transform our lives. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars.
