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Reality TV #1

The Fabulist

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Fabulist (fabyələst): a liar, especially a person who invents elaborate, dishonest stories After losing her job and her apartment, Samantha Wittaker takes a leap of faith when she tries out for The Fabulist, a new reality TV show promising a prize well worth the risk. Her sexy, tough as nails personality attracts more than just the attention of the producers. She also catches the eye of a couple of contestants as well as a hot, challenging cameraman. The twists and turns of reality TV are like nothing she ever even imagined. Deception, danger, love and lust lurk at every turn. Sometimes people lie. They lie to save themselves or to cover a truth. They lie to protect feelings or to protect hearts. Not all lies are bad. Or are they? Can Sam play the game or will the game play her?

376 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 20, 2016

25 people are currently reading
218 people want to read

About the author

Dawn L. Chiletz

12 books246 followers
Dawn L. Chiletz is the author of The Contest, Waiting to Lose, Enough, Can't You See, The Fabulist, Confessions of a Carpool Captive, The Praetorian, Angry Annie, Book Boyfriend, Strings and Converted. She currently resides in Illinois with her two boys, and two dogs. When she's not binge writing or reading, Dawn can most likely be found somewhere on social media making a sarcastic comment or posting funny memes.

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5 stars
122 (53%)
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80 (35%)
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21 (9%)
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4 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
Profile Image for Rebecca Woodward.
276 reviews184 followers
February 4, 2017
This is a fabulous read!! I enjoyed it so much. The Author gave the reader everything love, laughter and heartache. But mostly laughter. The story just flowed so easily. She takes us the reader into each scene effortlessly. I was playing along with the story. This would make a great reality tv show. All her characters were strong and believable. The MC is witty with a protective attitude towards her loved ones. Her personality bounced off the pages and smacked you across the head. I love her!! Great way to end the story.
Profile Image for Donna ~ The Romance Cover.
2,907 reviews323 followers
December 19, 2016
The Fabulist by Dawn L Chiletz
4.5 stars!!!

fabulist
noun
1.
a person who invents or recounts fables
2.
a person who lies or falsifies


This was my first read by Dawn L Chiletz and I have to say I adored it! We are a society that is addicted to reality TV, there is something absorbing about seeing the best and worst in people knowing that the other contestants have no idea. But The Fabulist was not your run of the mill reality TV show, this was a cross between Big Brother and The Apprentice. The prize is a $100,000 job with “The Fabulist.” A fabulist is a liar, an inventor of tales, the more elaborate the better and The Fabulist needs an understudy, an assistant to help him vet out the liars and the master manipulators he comes across on a daily basis in his line of business. The ability to tell truths from untruths is a rare talent, the ability to read a person, to study a person in a matter of minutes/seconds and be able to decipher the most inconspicuous of tells is a formidable talent to have in the unscrupulous world of business and the person who has this ability would be the winner.

“First, what is a fabulist? A Fabulist, in essence, is a liar. Someone who creates tales and stories meant to amaze and cause considerable uncertainty both for the viewer at home, as well as the contestants who’ve been carefully selected based on their skillful ability at finding the truth.”


Sam is at rock bottom, she is in her mid-twenties and despite holding down a high powered, well paid job since she left college, the downturn in the economy has left her redundant. Ever prideful Sam is reluctant to run to the bank of mum and dad and so as jobs are scarce and savings run out she ends up losing her flat and crashing on her best friend’s couch. Carmen is the total opposite of Sam, she is bubbly, outgoing and carefree and addicted to reality TV. Her social life revolves around the TV listings and her favourite programmes.

At the end of one such programme an advert goes out for contestants for this new reality TV Show called “The Fabulist,” Carmen wants to audition and does her best to get Sam to audition too, however, this is one thing that Sam excels at, this competition was made for her, she is the master at two lies and a truth, she can smell bull shit from fifty paces, this competition has Sam’s name as winner written all over it.

“Someone once told me life’s too short to feel regret. You have to take a chance. Sometimes it pays off and sometimes you’re left standing there alone, but either way, you’ll never hear a yes or no unless you ask. I’ll leave here knowing I put it all on the table. I don’t know that everyone can say the same.”


I loved this book and of course we have a romantic liaison thrown in for good measure and good TV, after all, what reality TV show is void of some kind of romance. Sam was sharp, quick witted and had a hair trigger temper, all traits that get her into a fair few scrapes and the object of every other contestant’s wrath and jealousy.

“Lies are like poison ivy. You tell a little lie and nothing bad happens. You walk through it and think you’re okay. Then later, you see a small red patch where the lie starts to take hold. It hurts and it itches, but you ignore it. You make up more lies to cover it. Then before you know it, you’ve lied so much it has spread everywhere. It’s all over your life and you can’t make it stop. He’s poison ivy…”


This was so well written I found myself playing along, taking mental notes of who I thought was a player and who was genuine, who was lying and who was playing the game. This book makes you think about the people that you surround yourself with and whether you are a good judge of character too. Some people are so good at lying that they actually think they are telling truth, would you be able to tell the difference?

“Sometimes people lie. They lie to save themselves or to cover a truth. They lie to protect feelings or to protect hearts. Not all lies are bad. Some are made with the best of intentions.”


This book was different, it was well written, it had wit, suspense, emotion when needed and a good dose of romance. Totally adored it!!

“When I lie, I want to lie down with you.”


www.theromancecover.com
Profile Image for Kate.
352 reviews58 followers
May 12, 2017
Loved this one! I really enjoyed the reality show aspect of this book, which reminded me of The Apprentice with characteristics of the board game Clue thrown in. I kept trying to figure out which contestants were lying to get ahead and which ones could be trusted, also who the elusive Fabulist could have possibly been. I wasn't positive until the very end when all was revealed so it made for a really fun and intriguing read.
Profile Image for Joy Novel Thoughts.
573 reviews70 followers
September 23, 2016
Do you *love* reality television?

Do you *love* not knowing what will happen at the next turn?

Do you *love* when your hero and heroine love to bicker and argue and fight each other and their feelings?

"I appreciate mystery and suspense. I excel at the art of surprise. Don't underestimate me. Don't assume I'm not listening. Don't assume I won't know your move before you make it. And most importantly, don't assume I'm telling the truth. I have my reasons for everything I do. You'll know them soon enough. After all, I am the Fabulist."

That excerpt right there accurately sums up the entire novel for me. You will be on the edge of your seat, staying up late, wanting to call into work to know what happens on the next page. You will feel the passion that Sam has for life jumping off of the pages at you. You will be her, you will root for her, your heart will break for and your heart will feel with pride and burst with love for and this novel.

"...because it's always been and always will be the absolute truth."
Profile Image for Samantha Shawhan.
488 reviews23 followers
September 19, 2016
5 stars for nicknames and liars! To those who lie for the right reasons

This book was better than I expected. I also thought I was going to go the whole book without crying. I was WRONG! I don't like reality tv, and still liked this book.

First off the main character is a blonde sassy female names Samantha. WAS THE AUTHOR WRITING ABOUT ME?! Haha. Anyways. There were lots of twists and turns throughout the book. The main plot twist I called early on in the story but started to question it on the last quarter of the book! But there was suspense, love, loyalty. It's had a lot of feels in a fun uplifting way. Like Samantha's best friend Cameron! We need more of her.

Great read! I also liked how the author named dropped Colleen Hoover and Too Late.
Profile Image for Amy Curley.
98 reviews
January 1, 2017
Loved it!!! Sam is kind of a bitch but Hogan is a babe. Love novels with twists and turns!
Profile Image for Kristina Beck.
Author 22 books600 followers
April 23, 2017
Great and unique story line. It was funny and I loved the main character's personality. It was entertaining throughout and always kept me guessing. I look forward to reading Dawn's other books.
Profile Image for Beth.
771 reviews123 followers
September 11, 2016
4.25 Liar Liar Pants on Fire Stars
or
4.25 Nickname Stars



I don't watch much TV, but I do love the creativity it takes to think up those Reality Show challenges. Not the Real Housewives or Teen Mom stuff, I mean the cool challenges on Survivor or Amazing Race. Those races, mental puzzles, etc. Those guys have to be really creative to think up all the stuff. The Fabulist would rank right up there with those creative shows.

Samantha is at a low point. She has lost her job and her apartment. She has moved in with her friend Carmen. There is no way...NO WAY....she is going to ask her parents for help. Her days are full of crap TV and cheetos. When the eternally peppy Carmen wants to audition for a new reality show, she talks Sam into joining her. But this show is right up Sam's alley. Sniffing out lies, bullshit and half truths. Sam prides herself on being able to read people.

Shit just got real. This is way more serious and cooler than I ever dreamed possible. I don't want to leave.

Of course, Sam makes it on to the show, the book is named The Fabulist after all. The filming of the show offers Sam a chance at a great job, maybe a guy, and definitely a whole new group of people to piss off. And forget their names. Sam is terrible with names. She can turn on the charm but Oh My Gawd, does she need to learn to control her temper.

I'm not here to make friends.

I can flirt with the best of them. Anyway, it's all a game. Every single bit of it.

Except some things are real. Way to real. There are really dangerous people. Really sexy people. And real feelings on the line.

If I decide to kiss you, Hogan, it will be the best kiss you've ever had in your life.

Oh Hogan, the sexy beast of a cameraman. Sam has a hard time staying away from him. But they each have jobs to do and can get fired for breaking the rules. There are cameras everywhere.

Samantha has to be quick on her feet and think fast. The reality show tests her mental capabilities and the people are pushing the limits of her control. Or are they playing with her emotions?

I'd rather hold your hand when things are rough than anyone else's when things are good.

I really enjoyed The Fabulist. It was fast paced and drew me in. I loved all the aspects of the reality show. Like everyone else, I have imagined how I would react to being on a those kinds of shows. This books lets you go back stage and explore the possibilities.

More importantly, The Fabulist challenges you to play along at home. Can you discover who is telling the truth? Who is lying? Who is playing the game or straight shooting? And the prize? More than a great job. For Samantha is could be ultimate prize of love. Or she could just be pawn in the game.

Ms Chiletz gives us a book about the inner workings of the mind. The games people play with each other. And themselves. Our tells. Signs we are truthful. Signs we who we say we are. I know I won't be playing poker with Ms Chiletz anytime soon.

Profile Image for Monique.
1,284 reviews56 followers
March 1, 2017
What a book! I loved it. Sam was just like a friend I know, so it felt like I knew her personally. She was funny, sassy and wouldn't let anyone bring her down, or her friends. She wasn't sure about doing the TV show, but it could only be good right? I loved the way she gives the other characters a nick name, Hulk especially. And he was divine too!

If you are looking for a book that will keep you laughing, maybe a tear or two, and have you wondering along with Sam, this is definitely the book for you.
Profile Image for Angie Harvey.
726 reviews5 followers
September 19, 2016
I cannot express how much I absolutely love Dawn. This book was everything I could have hoped for. When I saw the cover I was immediately excited to see what the book was about. After reading it, it was even better!

I can totally relate to Sam, she's spunky and confident. She's such a great friend to Carmen. I love that they even each other out so well. And Carmen, she's so loyal and really knows how to help Sam cheer up and aid her. The whole idea of being on a game show is something I would never dream of doing, but I love how Dawn put it into a book. There are so many awful reality tv shows and I think she did a great job making the situation one that people can relate to and wouldn't hate.

I really loved her connection to the show through Hogan though! Hogan was the kind of guy that I think most girls would fan themselves over, but Sam was the one that had the guts to tell him. Who could resist spunk like hers? The story of Sam and Hogan was amazing. I was sucked in from the beginning.

Without giving too much away, if you like minor drama, real life people, and forbidden romance, this is 100% the book for you!
Profile Image for Juliana.
940 reviews1 follower
August 10, 2017
Ooh! I loved this book! It was so entertaining and fun! Sam and Carmen love reality shows so when they get a chance to become contestants on the newest show, The Fabulist, they go for it. Sam doesn't take any crap from anybody and Carmen is the sweetest woman around.
This book was not what I expected at ALL. Sure, I expected the romance (and ooh boy was it good) but the lies, deception, and attempted murder (!) elevated the whole story even more. I ate this book up and I wish there was more. There were so many twists and turns and I loved reading about the reality show part of it. Being flown to Hawaii for the day? Damn! Trying to figure out who were liars within each level was great too. I loved the murder mystery party. The people I hated in the book got what they deserve and I didn't have to wait until the end to hear about it. I kept second guessing myself all throughout the book just like Sam was. It was hard not to skip forward just to figure everything out but I'm so glad I didn't.
Very refreshing and an absolutely enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,328 reviews58 followers
June 28, 2017
LOVED this book! What a fun read. Loved the reality show aspect. Loved Sam and her spunky attitude. So many twists and turns. A little mystery. And add in romance!

I loved the friendship between Sam and Carmen. Opposites for sure, but a true bond. And Sam is fiercely protective. Carmen was probably the only person who could have talked Sam into trying out for the new reality show, The Fabulist. It was no surprise she was good .... really good!

And Hogan - holy hotness! The sparks between them fly from the beginning, despite them trying so hard to fight it.

This book was one I couldn't put down!
Profile Image for Sarah.
602 reviews39 followers
February 19, 2018
An interesting premise, but I found the characters sometimes uneven and the relationship between the h/h too hot and cold with way too much pulling in then pushing away. The unique story did keep me intrigued and pushed me to keep reading until it was done, though.
Profile Image for Lacy.
409 reviews13 followers
October 19, 2016
I began this novel with curiosity and a burning need for something with flare, a unique setting, and a very different plot. The author delivers all of that and more with this truly beautiful book. Samantha, Sam Whittaker is in the middle of a rut. After being laid off, and being forced to abandon her former home and life, she finds herself wavering, unsure of her next move and ultimately wishing she knew her place in life. When Carmen, her best friend for life and current roommate, insists on becoming one of the first contestants on a soon to be famous reality television show, they embark on the journey of a lifetime.
What Sam doesn't expect is that after going onto the show with Carmen to support her best friend's dream and obsession, is that she may want the title more than anyone, including Carmen. Sam goes in thinking that with her ability to read people and sort through the lies and truth that she may at least be a shoe-in, but she has no idea the lengths that some players will go through in order to win the show's prize: $100,000 dollars and a position of prestige working with the man behind the show, the Fabulist. Sneaky dealings, deceit, games, manipulation, plots of death, and shocking secrets will be revealed before she finds out what is most important in life and what she wants for herself most.
Let me tell you, I am not a fan of reality shows, BUT I went into this book because the plot and setting were just so unique that I HAD to read it. However, once I began, I fell so in love with all the characters, even the assholes eventually, lol, because they were necessary and awesome in their evilness! Lol! Sam, well, it's been a long time since I've read a character that I related to so much, and I loved her snarky humor, her opinionated and blunt honesty, her undeniably loyal heart, and most of all her ability to be so real. I loved her relationship with Carmen, they were the dream team to me.
Then, Hogan Harper. Omg. This man is quirky, witty, mysterious, sexy, and smart. Dedicated and hardworking. I just adored their intriguing relationship and interactions. I loved how he fought for Sam no matter how hard she pushed, and damn did she fight! Lastly, there's the Fabulist. He was a mystery from the beginning. The twists, the turns, the shocking moments were a constant pleasure. The events throughout were well-written and crazy. I had no clue until very close to the finale who he was, and it rocked me anyways. Honestly, this books has everything I could have ever wanted in a story. Dawn will be an automatic buy for me in the future, that's for sure!
Profile Image for Michelle.
3,177 reviews35 followers
December 7, 2020
4-4.5 stars. I'm a sucker for reality tv shows, never mind stories that feature reality tv. Sam is pulled into auditioning for a show that has the potential to make it big by her best friend Carmen. They are opposites in terms of Carmen being bubbly, sweet and optimistic whereas Sam is the more cynical and jaded one. Still, Sam wants to support Carmen and the grand prize isn't too shabby either. The show itself was intriguing and the characters all brought something to the table. Nothing was quite as it seemed and if there's anything that Sam is good at, it's sniffing out the truth. I knew there would be a twist based on the cast of characters and how there was an aura of mystery surrounding the Fabulist. While that part was predictable, it was still enjoyable to read how it all played out in front of Sam and how she handled it. She went in with nothing to lose, but could potentially come out with a cash prize and job. But as it turned out, she could definitely stand to lose more in the way of love and have to walk away, costing her everything. I enjoyed the dialogue, challenges and deductive reasoning. There were swoony moments as well as funny parts, too.
Profile Image for Christine.
445 reviews
September 19, 2016
This was really different from anything I have read. There's a lot going on in this story. Mystery, lies, game play, loyalty, betrayal, and a love story all in one. So, a love story with a twist, if you will. Probably not in the ways you may think. I really enjoyed Hogan's charm and wit. Sam had her moments that made me want to shake her but overall she was a good lead and everyone deserves a Carmen in their life.
Profile Image for Sabi.
1,250 reviews362 followers
September 25, 2025
I loved it! It was such a Cool read! It has romance, laughter, and suspense, all wrapped up in a nice little book.

It's a story of a few contestants going on a new reality show where the contestants have to pick the lie. Plus, there is a mystery who is "The Fabulist" that we'll get at the end of the program, so that's exciting! It's like you finally get to meet the "Big Brother" other than his Voice.
Profile Image for Rene.
199 reviews5 followers
October 28, 2016
Wow! Twisty turny goodness. I could not put this book down. Kept you guessing throughout the whole thing. Loved it so much!!! Loved the characters. Dawn definitely did not disappoint with the Fabulist!!! I am not even a fan of reality television and loved this.
Profile Image for Tina V.
581 reviews3 followers
October 9, 2016
I could not put this book down! What a truly engaging, unique read! I loved every moment of this book and did not want it to end!
Profile Image for Denise Hoover.
829 reviews
May 27, 2023
Are you ready to sniff out the biggest liar?

I’m honestly not sure how this book is classified, but I find it was a mystery, with a hint of romance and a happily ever after.

Best friends, Samantha Wittaker and Carmen Moran, make the decision to try out for the newest reality tv show The Fabulist. Sam has an uncanny ability to sniff out when someone is lying and Carmen just wants to be on a reality tv show - they’re her favorite to watch.

The progression of filming of The Fabulist, in the book, gives you an inside view of what people in shows like Big Brother and Survivor go through. And I found it very neat and eye opening.

Our main girl Sam though is competitive by nature and in it to win it. She stirs up drama - sometimes necessarily and then other times unnecessarily, to keep pushing on.

I loved the mystery of the book though. We don’t know who the “boss” - the actual Fabulist - is throughout the book. It kept me thinking and wondering throughout until the very end when all is revealed.

If you’re looking for an outside the box, fun mystery, pick this one up today!
Profile Image for Renee.
211 reviews30 followers
June 8, 2017
Calling all Reality TV Show Junkies!!! YOU GUYS! I could not put this book down. It seriously took everything I had to actually work and not sit and read this book at my desk. The concept of this book was unlike anything I have ever read and I really appreciated the originality. It was fresh, fun and kept me guessing throughout the whole book. In true Reality TV form, the actual filming of the show was only 10 days and the L word was already being thrown around. And, of course, I loved it. I have to take a minute to talk about Sam. Everyone needs a friend like Sam, loyal, trustworthy, believes in you when no one else does and always has your back no matter what. I appreciated her quirks like assigning nicknames for people since she was bad with names. I was glad the author did this because it also helped me keep the contestants straight. I very much recommend The Fabulist This was my first book by Dawn Chiletz and it will most definitely not be my last!
Profile Image for Miranda.
437 reviews6 followers
May 14, 2020
I must say I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book. Stories about a Reality TV show didn’t really get me intrigued however I was totally sucked in and surprised. I picked up this book based on a friend’s high recommendation and so glad I did.
This was full of games and mysteries that you can’t resist being pulled in trying to figure it all out.

Sam is hilarious, independent, doesn’t give a F@$* about what others think. She is incredibly intelligent but quick to anger.
You certainly meet a lot of other interesting characters that before you know it you are halfway through the book and hours have passed.

I think it was a compulsive read and I completely enjoyed this from start to finish.
25 reviews
August 8, 2020
I really loved the unique plot to this book! A romance that revolves around a reality television show was fun to read. All the details of production made me feel like I was there behind the scenes. Oh and lets not forget the great twist the author throws near the end. Perfect!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, this author writes the best male leads!

Hogan is mysterious and a little brooding, but incredibly sweet and 100% swoon worthy. I loved his back and forth banter with the female lead, Sam.

I've read enough of Dawn Chiletz novels to know that when I pick up one of her books, I'm not only going to stay up all night to finish it, but the story will leave me satisfied. This one did not disappoint!
Profile Image for Mandy.
566 reviews
December 22, 2020
*I received a ARC*


I'm not a big TV watcher, and what I do watch isn't reality TV.

But this book, was really fun to read. Samantha is a badass, I really loved her spitfire attitude and her absolute devotion to her best friend Carmen.

And then, there is Hogan.*sigh* Let me take a moment........I love him. I loved the build of his character and was thrilled at his ability to be so damned sexy and so adorably sweet. He's amazing and I'm glad Dawn created such a awesome book boyfriend.

A few characters, and you'll see who when you read this, need throat punched. There. I said it. LOL

I enjoyed this book and as always, look forward to what Dawn brings us next.
Profile Image for Christina.
25 reviews
August 7, 2017

The Fabulist is a great read! If you enjoy reality television, relatable characters, and a well thought out and developed storyline, then this book is perfect for you! The characters in The Fabulist will steal your hearts as you meet them. From the first page I was taken in, and didn’t want to put the book down. The lies, love, and laughter will keep you on your toes as you not only fall in love with the brilliantly written characters, but with Dawn L Chiletz and her writing as well.
Profile Image for nuovee.
69 reviews
November 21, 2022
5 stars for the ideas because I like that we are solving puzzles throughout the read (the game in each round was interesting, I kinda know who the Fabulist is though)

I just wish the FMC wouldn't be too hot-headed (it bothers me so much that she was so quick to react) I thought the MC was supposed to be someone powerful and smart yet he came off as a very meek character.
It was an enjoyable read although I don't like the main characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Melissa.
44 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2017
What a refreshing book! Nothing out there like this. I really loved the concept of this book - lie detecting. The lies and contests during the show were amazing and well thought out. Suspenseful, hilarious, and romantic. I stopped reading for 2 days when I was at 92% because I didn't want it to end! Loved it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews

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