Counterfeit

Counterfeit, by Kirstin Chen, is a riveting novel that combines fashion, crime, and friendship to tell the story of two Asian American women who band together to grow a counterfeit handbag scheme into a global enterprise. It follows Ava Wong, a strait-laced, rule-abiding Chinese American lawyer, and her enigmatic college roommate, Winnie Fang, who dropped out under mysterious circumstances. Twenty years later, Winnie resurfaces with a counterfeit scheme that involves importing near-exact replicas of luxury handbags, and now she needs someone with a US passport to help manage her business. Ava, disillusioned with her perfect life, takes on the challenge, but when their spectacular success is threatened and Winnie vanishes once again, Ava is left to face the consequences.

At its core, Counterfeit is a tale of two women from vastly different backgrounds who form an unlikely bond over their shared desire for more. Ava, who has always played it safe, is struggling with her marriage, her career, and her toddler's tantrums. Winnie, on the other hand, has developed an ingenious counterfeit scheme that has made her dripping in luxury goods, including a coveted Birkin in classic orange. The two women come together to grow the scheme into a global enterprise, using their unique skills and connections to make a name for themselves in the world of high-end fashion.

The novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and the myth of the model minority. Chen delves into the complex relationship between Chinese American and mainland Chinese cultures, highlighting the pressures that come with assimilation and the struggle to balance tradition with modernity. Ava and Winnie's friendship is both a source of strength and tension, as they navigate their shared goals and divergent paths. Chen also interrogates the notion of the model minority, challenging the idea that Asian Americans are the "good immigrants" who succeed through hard work and perseverance.

One of the strengths of the novel is its richly drawn characters. Ava is a relatable protagonist, grappling with the pressures of motherhood and career while trying to maintain her sense of self. Her relationship with her husband is complex and nuanced, as they navigate their growing distance and the expectations placed on them as a successful Asian American couple. Winnie is a fascinating character, shrouded in mystery and ambition. She is both a mentor and a liability to Ava, and her enigmatic personality keeps the reader guessing until the end.

Another highlight of the novel is its vivid descriptions of the world of high-end fashion. Chen takes the reader on a journey behind the scenes of upscale designer storefronts and Chinese factories, highlighting the labor-intensive process of producing luxury goods. She also explores the allure of these goods, and the cultural significance they hold in a society that places a premium on material possessions.

The novel is written in a crisp, engaging style that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end. Chen's prose is sharp and witty, and her observations on society and culture are incisive and thought-provoking. The plot is well-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes. The ending is satisfying and poignant, bringing the story full circle and leaving the reader with a sense of closure.

In conclusion, Counterfeit is a stylish and feminist caper that blends fashion, crime, and friendship to tell a compelling story of two Asian American women who band together to demand more from life. Kirstin Chen's writing is sharp and engaging, and her characters are richly drawn and relatable. The novel is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, contemporary literature, and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of Asian American identity in modern society.