The Fake

by L.K. Chapman

The youngest sibling in her large family, twenty-seven-year-old Stacey is used to being the butt of every joke. So, when she announces that she has written a novel, is it any surprise that instead of praise and congratulations she is met with laughter and dismissal?

But just as she vows to make her book a success, a haunting and beautiful novel by a stranger happens to fall into her lap, and she can’t resist the temptation to submit their stunning manuscript to a literary agent, instead of her own.

Little does she know it will become an overnight success.

For thirteen years she gets away with it. But she’s certainly not enjoying her fame. To everybody else, from her husband to her best friend, she is the author of a bestselling novel. But in her heart she knows what she really is.

A fake.

There’s someone else who knows it, too. And with their ties to the book going deeper than Stacey could possibly have imagined, they won't stay quiet any longer.

Unknown Binding

First published October 10, 2025

About the author

LK Chapman writes psychological thrillers about relationships, family drama, secrets and lies – from dark and disturbing tales of obsession and jealousy, to twisty thrillers with a dash of romance – her passion is creating characters that get under your skin and stories that keep you gripped.

Chapman’s books are inspired by her studies in psychology, and she has always been fascinated by the strength, peculiarities and extremes of human nature. As well as working as a psychologist, Chapman volunteered for mental health charity Mind before starting her journey as an author. It has been an incredibly exciting journey and she is so grateful for the support of her readers.

When she is not writing, Chapman will usually be found in her garden or getting out and enjoying the outdoors – immersing herself in nature and giving her mind a chance to work on her next story!


You can receive a free copy of my short story Worth Pursuing, as well as news about new releases, by signing up to the LK Chapman reading group: www.lkchapman.com/free-book-offer

You can find out more about LK Chapman by visiting her website.

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engrossing mystery/thriller story of deception and its consequences. I was drawn into this from the beginning and the intrigue kept my interest throughout. My first book by this author and one that I thoroughly enjoyed.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was quite an intriguing book with many twists. I really enjoyed this one from start to finish

[Karen Cuddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a compelling and twisty read. Stacey, the youngest in her family, has never really found her footing — until she suddenly becomes a bestselling author. Thirteen years later, she appears to have it all: a happy marriage, two children, and a thriving career. But during a literary retreat, cracks begin to show. Someone knows that the work she submitted all those years ago wasn’t entirely her own, and they’re determined to expose the truth. What follows is a tense, emotional unravelling as Stacey’s life spirals and secrets come to light — not just hers, but those of people she trusts. It’s a sharp, clever story about guilt, ambition, and how far people will go to protect what they’ve built. Thoroughly enjoyable and my first read by L.K. Chapman — definitely not my last. Thanks to TBC reviewer group and author for the opportunity to read and review.

[Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well that was quite the rollercoaster of a story, let me tell you. I was literally gripped from the get go and then I was kept captivated throughout, right to the very explosive conclusion, well maybe explosive isn’t quite the right word, but either way it was soooo good.

The story, was brilliantly written and highly unique, by which I mean, not a story premise that one comes across in other stories. So I was pleasantly surprised by this story, loved how it kept me wanting more, kept me turning those pages eager with anticipation as to what would happen next.

The characters were just something else, not knowing what to expect or how they would react. I truly felt for both characters, Stacey and Joe in equal measures at different points throughout the story.

It was addictive reading for sure. I just loved how the story flowed and then it all came together at the end.

[Sue Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

After writing a bestseller Stacey becomes famous but is struggling to write a second book. She decides to book herself into a writing retreat to hopefully get some ideas for a new book, but what she didn't bargain for were emails and texts telling her to tell the truth about her first book but what exactly do the messages mean and who is sending them. So begins a gripping edge of your seat read it had me hooked looking forward to reading more by this author.

[Emma Langford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stacey is offered to critique a manuscript, and passes it off as her own. What ensues following this is secrets and lies spanning years. I found Stacey irritating and self absorbed for the bulk of the story to the point where I completely disliked her. The carnage that follows on from decisions made makes the story somewhat unbelievable… yet still enjoyable…. Especially the twists at the end.

[Yvette Salmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read a few of L K Chapmans books but this for some reason isn’t my best. There is a lot of twists and turns but something didn’t enjoy this as much as the others . This book still got 4 stars though so worth a read.

[Clare Brack · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read a few of LK Chapmansbut this wasn't one of my favourites..i didn't really get attached to the storyline as I have in previous books.There were a few good twists though.

[Helen Bawden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me gripped from its first page to its last, and I am sure it will stay with me for a long long time.

[May · Rating 1 out of 5]

A good concept but seemed messy with the continuous plot twists and drama.

[Terry Masters · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book kept my attention, I wanted to know what would transpire.

However, as the story unfolded, it became somewhat implausible. There were so many clues that were not seen by the friends and relatives of the main character.

The last part of the story was interesting but again I did not believe it. Great imagination of the author and interesting reading, but ....