aussiegirlinuk 's review for:

Counterfeit by Kirstin Chen

3.5

mysterious medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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If Crazy Rich Asians and Hustlers had a crime-lit baby, it’d be this stylish little caper. Two Asian American women team up to run a global counterfeit handbag scheme—and while it’s not without flaws, it’s bold, clever, and satirical fun.

Ava Wong seems like your typical rule-following mum—lawyer, wife, mother, living the perfect life on paper. But behind the scenes? It’s all unravelling. Then along comes her glamorous old college friend Winnie, now dripping in designer goods and armed with a business proposal she can’t resist 👀

This is a book of two halves, and it’s the second that really shines. The first part—Ava’s account to a detective—felt slow in places and I found her a bit grating (neurotic, self-pitying, clearly out of her depth). But the pivot in Part II completely changed the game. It reframes everything and gives the story a much-needed jolt of energy.

Most of the side characters faded into the background, and I found myself wishing for more of Winnie throughout. Still, the dynamic between the two women carried the novel beautifully.

Fast, stylish, and layered in all the right places, Counterfeit doesn’t ask too much of you—but it offers a sharp take on consumerism, identity, and the price of perfection. A brilliant pick for your next holiday read or weekend escape.

👯‍♀️✨ Recommended if you enjoy morally grey women, luxury drama, and a touch of scheming with your satire.