FAKE OUT

After a surprising revelation from her boyfriend’s ex, Blair Evans is forced to question the possibility of a future with him. Out of the blue, David’s ex, Krystal, comes up with the news that she’s pregnant, which leaves Blair completely shocked and disturbed. To make matters worse, Krystal has a reputation for being devious, which makes anything that comes out of her mouth hard to believe. As if this is not bad enough, a video of her boyfriend involved in a sexual act surfaces, putting him at risk of being expelled from school. Though David claims the video was doctored, Blair is confused about what to believe. Is this the end of the road for the high school lovers? In Fake Out, Felicia Farber spins a riveting, dramatic high school tale involving young lovers and multiple mouth-watering scandals.

The plot is far from predictable or boring. Like the popular high school movie from 2004, Mean Girls, Fake Out is filled with multiple twists and devious schemes that will have your mouth open in shock. From doctored pictures to serious threats and intense court-like battles, the book never disappoints with its constant supply of dramatic twists. Its plot keeps readers guessing and searching for clues about what’s real and what’s not.

Since it alternates between a first-person and a third-person viewpoint, the book offers a balanced mix of a personal, immersive style that allows for a deep connection with the protagonist and a more detached perspective that lets you view the story from a broader perspective. Blair, who shares her views in first-person, appears to be quite spirited and courageous. I especially liked when she confronts her friend’s mother about restricting her friend to dating only Koreans.

I loved the book’s compelling mix of themes: generative AI, scandals, teenage pregnancy, love relationships, friendship, family, defamation, and more. Prepare for thought-provoking discussions about the merits and dangers of technology and other intriguing topics. The book brings up interesting arguments about the absurdity of being able to grab anyone’s picture from the internet and “co-opt them for their own benefit, like we’re all helpless puppets.” I believe such topics should be discussed more.

Fake Out is the type of book you read when you need an exciting, immersing escape into a fictional world. Its enthralling plot had me engaged and eagerly turning the pages from start to finish. Apart from its very entertaining plot, it serves as a call to seriously examine the dangers of technology and take more caution regarding its use. I strongly recommend this book and its feisty characters, high stakes, and attractively turbulent romance.