Faking Friends is a novel by Jane Fallon, a British author known for her witty and entertaining fiction. Published in 2017, this novel falls under the genres of contemporary fiction, women’s fiction, and domestic fiction. With its intriguing plot, relatable characters, and humorous tone, “Faking Friends” has garnered positive reviews from readers and critics alike.
Faking Friends Plot Summary:
Amy and Mel were best friends since they were children. They were inseparable until a devastating secret about Mel’s husband was revealed, causing their friendship to crumble. Amy, a successful TV producer, is struggling to cope with the fallout from her broken engagement and her career seems to be on the brink of collapse. Mel, on the other hand, is living a life of luxury, but her marriage is not as perfect as it seems.
When Mel invites Amy to her lavish villa in Ibiza for a holiday, Amy jumps at the chance to escape her problems. However, things take a turn for the worse when she discovers that Mel has an ulterior motive for inviting her. As the two friends clash and their secrets are revealed, Amy realizes that she may have to fight dirty to save her career and her sanity.
Character Analysis:
The two main characters in the novel, Amy and Mel, are complex and flawed. Amy is a hardworking, ambitious woman who is determined to succeed in her career. She is loyal to her friends but can be naive at times. Mel, on the other hand, is manipulative and cunning. She is used to getting what she wants and will stop at nothing to maintain her luxurious lifestyle. Despite their differences, both characters are relatable and their struggles with friendship, love, and betrayal are universal.
Themes and Symbolism:
The novel deals with themes of friendship, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to maintain their status and lifestyle. The symbolism of the title, “Faking Friends,” is evident throughout the novel as the characters are forced to confront the truth about their relationships with each other. The novel also explores the idea of perception versus reality, as the characters’ public image differs greatly from their private lives.
Writing Style and Pacing:
Jane Fallon’s writing style is witty, humorous, and engaging. Her pacing keeps the reader hooked, with plot twists and cliffhangers that leave the reader wanting more. The novel is well-structured, with flashbacks and multiple narrators that add depth and complexity to the story.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, “Faking Friends” is an entertaining and engaging novel that explores the complexities of friendship and betrayal. Jane Fallon’s witty writing style and well-constructed plot make for a fast-paced and enjoyable read. The characters are relatable and flawed, making their struggles and triumphs all the more satisfying. I highly recommend this book to fans of contemporary and women’s fiction.
If you enjoyed “Faking Friends” by Jane Fallon, you may also enjoy her other bestseller, “Strictly Between Us.” In this novel, two best friends’ lives are turned upside down when one of them discovers a shocking secret about the other. With its humor, drama, and relatable characters, “Strictly Between Us” is another must-read from Jane Fallon.
