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Copycat
From the New York Times bestselling author who "writes with high-octane levels of emotion" ( USA Today ).
Befriending Traci Calloway Cole is the best thing Simone Phillips has ever done. Traci is the kind of woman Simone wants to be-in every way possible. She begins copying her role model. Not because she wants to be Traci. She just wants to be exactly like Traci.
Traci doesn't worry, though. She knows Simone doesn't mean any harm and that her mimicry is only sincere admiration. Until she discovers how far Simone's obsession has gone.
It is then that Simone's entire world begins unraveling, and dreadful secrets from her past are exposed with no warning. Secrets that she'll do almost anything to protect.
Befriending Traci Calloway Cole is the best thing Simone Phillips has ever done. Traci is the kind of woman Simone wants to be-in every way possible. She begins copying her role model. Not because she wants to be Traci. She just wants to be exactly like Traci.
Traci doesn't worry, though. She knows Simone doesn't mean any harm and that her mimicry is only sincere admiration. Until she discovers how far Simone's obsession has gone.
It is then that Simone's entire world begins unraveling, and dreadful secrets from her past are exposed with no warning. Secrets that she'll do almost anything to protect.
208 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
149 people are currently reading
1642 people want to read
About the author
Kimberla Lawson Roby
43 books2,787 followersNew York Times Bestselling Author, Speaker, Encourager of Women & Podcast Host, Kimberla Lawson Roby, has published 30 books which include her faith-based, nonfiction titles, THE WOMAN GOD CREATED YOU TO BE: Finding Success Through Faith—Spiritually, Personally, and Professionally and THE WOMAN GOD CREATED YOU TO BE: Companion Workbook & Discussion Guide, as well as some of her novels, such as CASTING THE FIRST STONE, SIN OF A WOMAN, A SINFUL CALLING, SISTER FRIENDS FOREVER, A CHRISTMAS PRAYER, THE PRODIGAL SON, THE PERFECT MARRIAGE, THE REVEREND’S WIFE, IT'S AS THIN LINE, and her debut title, BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, which was originally self-published through her own company, Lenox Press. She has sold more than 3 million copies of her books, and they have frequented numerous bestseller lists, including The New York Times, USA Today, The Washington Post, Publishers Weekly, Essence, Upscale, Black Christian News, AALBC.com, Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com, Wal-Mart, The Dallas Morning News, The Austin Chronicle and many others. Kimberla is also the host of The Woman God Created You to Be Podcast.
Over the years, Kimberla has spoken to thousands of women at conferences, churches, expos, workshops, luncheons, libraries, colleges, universities and bookstores. She shares her own personal journey straight from her heart and has a strong passion toward helping women become all that God created them to be.
Kimberla is the 2013 NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction, the recipient of the 2017 SOAR Radio Trailblazer of Honor award, the 2017 Southwest Florida Reading Festival Distinguished Author award, the 2017 AAMBC Christian Fiction Author of the Year award and the 2014 AAMBC Female Author of the Year award, the 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013 African-American Literary Awards Show (New York, NY) Female Author of the Year award, the Blackboard Fiction Book of the Year Award in 2001 for CASTING THE FIRST STONE, and in 2001, Kimberla was inducted into the Rock Valley College Alumni Hall of Fame (Rockford, IL). Additionally, in August 2020, she was named by USA Today as one of the 100 black novelists you should read, and in February 2021, her nonfiction book, The Woman God Created You to Be: Finding Success Through Faith—Spiritually, Personally, and Professionally, was nominated for an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional, giving her 4 NAACP Image Award nominations in total.
Kimberla’s books deal with very real issues, including women empowerment, sexual harassment, racial and gender discrimination in the workplace, problems within the church (and the consequences), Christian/family/moral values, drug and gambling addiction, marriage, infidelity, single motherhood, breast cancer, infertility, sibling rivalry, domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, mental illness, and the care-giving of a parent to name a few. In addition, Kimberla’s books offer a message of redemption, forgiveness, and the realities of everyday life. Kimberla resides in Illinois with her husband, Will.
To share your thoughts with Kimberla regarding her work, please e-mail her at: kim@kimroby.com
Over the years, Kimberla has spoken to thousands of women at conferences, churches, expos, workshops, luncheons, libraries, colleges, universities and bookstores. She shares her own personal journey straight from her heart and has a strong passion toward helping women become all that God created them to be.
Kimberla is the 2013 NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction, the recipient of the 2017 SOAR Radio Trailblazer of Honor award, the 2017 Southwest Florida Reading Festival Distinguished Author award, the 2017 AAMBC Christian Fiction Author of the Year award and the 2014 AAMBC Female Author of the Year award, the 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013 African-American Literary Awards Show (New York, NY) Female Author of the Year award, the Blackboard Fiction Book of the Year Award in 2001 for CASTING THE FIRST STONE, and in 2001, Kimberla was inducted into the Rock Valley College Alumni Hall of Fame (Rockford, IL). Additionally, in August 2020, she was named by USA Today as one of the 100 black novelists you should read, and in February 2021, her nonfiction book, The Woman God Created You to Be: Finding Success Through Faith—Spiritually, Personally, and Professionally, was nominated for an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional, giving her 4 NAACP Image Award nominations in total.
Kimberla’s books deal with very real issues, including women empowerment, sexual harassment, racial and gender discrimination in the workplace, problems within the church (and the consequences), Christian/family/moral values, drug and gambling addiction, marriage, infidelity, single motherhood, breast cancer, infertility, sibling rivalry, domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, mental illness, and the care-giving of a parent to name a few. In addition, Kimberla’s books offer a message of redemption, forgiveness, and the realities of everyday life. Kimberla resides in Illinois with her husband, Will.
To share your thoughts with Kimberla regarding her work, please e-mail her at: kim@kimroby.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 376 reviews
July 2, 2017
Copycat by Kimberla Lawson Roby is a 2017 Grand Central Publishing publication.
I hesitated to check this book out due to the familiar synopsis. It sounded an awful lot like “Single White Female”, but because it came highly recommended by a trusted book list source, I decided to give it a try.
First of all, I’ve never read any of Kimberla Lawson Roby’s novels, so I had no idea she has a healthy backlist of Christian fiction titles. While this book was labeled as ‘chick-lit’, there is a fair amount of scripture quoted and church related conversation in this book, so I thought I might mention that up front.
Secondly, the book has numerous references to author/ fan relationships, some of which I’m sure come from real life situations, but I came close to feeling offended by the suggestion that authors should be wary of friending fans on Facebook, and perhaps taking a jab at some reader comments or frustrations.
Third, the book is not necessarily a knock off of SWF, but instead, seems like the portrait of a young woman who came from an unstable environment, without strong role models, who becomes obsessed when her favorite author takes her under her wing.
Still the book, which is fast paced, short, and easy to read, is very predictable, and as such dull and boring.
I’m afraid I need much more of a challenge than this.
1.5 stars
I hesitated to check this book out due to the familiar synopsis. It sounded an awful lot like “Single White Female”, but because it came highly recommended by a trusted book list source, I decided to give it a try.
First of all, I’ve never read any of Kimberla Lawson Roby’s novels, so I had no idea she has a healthy backlist of Christian fiction titles. While this book was labeled as ‘chick-lit’, there is a fair amount of scripture quoted and church related conversation in this book, so I thought I might mention that up front.
Secondly, the book has numerous references to author/ fan relationships, some of which I’m sure come from real life situations, but I came close to feeling offended by the suggestion that authors should be wary of friending fans on Facebook, and perhaps taking a jab at some reader comments or frustrations.
Third, the book is not necessarily a knock off of SWF, but instead, seems like the portrait of a young woman who came from an unstable environment, without strong role models, who becomes obsessed when her favorite author takes her under her wing.
Still the book, which is fast paced, short, and easy to read, is very predictable, and as such dull and boring.
I’m afraid I need much more of a challenge than this.
1.5 stars
April 2, 2017
If this is a NYT best selling author I'd hate to see the worst!! Having God and prayer jammed down my throat at every turn in this book was only the beginning of the problems I had in reading it. How can Traci have written a book on copycats and not see the symptoms in Simone?????? These women are 40 years old and sound like pre-teens - BFF, c'mon! I felt like a 12 year old was writing it for her teeny bopper girlfriends!! Why did I finish it? Because it only took an hour to read and I wanted to see how it ended!! Bad.
January 6, 2018
This book...dear god this effin' book.
Let the swearing ensure.
I was so hoping to enjoy it. The premise sounded so intriguing (which, apparently, a lot of people think is an exact copy of Single White Female) so I was so here for it. Maybe about...30% of the way through, my opinions of "Eh, ok. I can get into this!" did an abrupt turnabout to "...why am I still doing this to myself?!"
First of all. Let me just preface this by saying: Everyone is allowed to have, practice, love their religion. There is absolutely nothing wrong with believing in god and being faithful. As a matter of fact, good for you! Personally, I am not religious whatsoever but I have never minded reading about someone who is. However, what I do take issue with is having said religion and rhetoric shoved forcefully down my throat, repeatedly, with no warning. (Note to self: Research a new author a teeny bit before you read their work.)
There was also that little issue of the completely selfish and backwards fiance, Chris. There was a certain part where Simone and he go to see Chris' pastor for their premarital counseling (is that what it's called? Forgive me...) and our dear pastor brings up a few things to them (This is the exact point where my enjoyment ceased and my irritation grew substantially), the main thing being "separate bank accounts".
Now, honestly. Every marriage is different and there is not one specific way to do it right, like everything else in life. Everyone also has different opinions and preferences on how their marriage will be/should be. HOW. FUCKING. EVER. This pastor...BOI THIS PASTOR... he didn't get that memo, mmkay? When he asks Simone "How do you feel about separate bank accounts?" she responds along the lines of liking the idea of both her and her husband not pooling 100% of their money together. Chris looks at her, aghast, and dear, sweet pastor man says says something like "Having separate bank accounts is pretty much equivalent to setting your marriage up for failure." Ex. Cuse. MOI?
This is why I have an issue with this. I strongly believe that every person should have their own money. Women especially. There is nothing wrong with having a joint bank account on top of your own accounts (my husband and I use this for bills and splitting other expenses and such), but having zero sense of financial self, as an independent person, drives me fucking bonkers to even think about. What is your plan "B" in this case? If one person primarily handles paying the bills, how is this a 50/50 thing (if that was your plan)? If shit goes south, what do you do? Just suddenly open up your own account and make a massive withdrawal in which the other person can plainly see? There are so many reasons why this drives me insane and it has absolutely nothing to do with my husband and I trusting each other (that was another point brought up with this). It is 100% about the fact that we do trust each other, we value each other's independence, AND WE ARE ALLOWED TO HAVE OUR OWN GOD DAMN MONEY. And you're going to write in your book, via your religious leader, that my marriage is going to fail because of it? Fuck. You.
After this point, Chris is literally ready to reconsider getting married and wants to back out of a dinner they are going to. Why? Because A)Simone doesn't want to combine 100% of their money into joint accounts and wishes to have some financial independence. B) She wishes to further discuss living arrangements before she sells her condo (like he pretty much demands she do) and move into his house on the grounds that "Well, I have a house" is not a good enough reason for her. C) She would like to seek and discuss other options before commiting herself to his church. (Aka: Independent and intelligent woman who don't ask "how high" when he says "jump" are a fucking problem.) He literally says "I want you to sell your condo. I want you to go to my church and I want us to have joint bank accounts.". That's a whole shit ton of "Me me me" and "I want I want I want" and zero "We are about to go into marriage, a partnership, where both of our opinions, feelings, and wants should be taken into account so, please, let's work something out."
Dillhole, party of one.
Now that I got all of that out...let's get to the part where Simone is mentally unstable and trying to turn herself into a Traci clone.
Girl is screwed up. She had a messed up childhood and a few wires are shorting because of it, which is totally understandable. It's obvious throughout the book that we are supposed to roll our eyes and sigh and want to shake her shoulders and scream "Why? Why are you doing this? What the fuck are you doing this for? It makes no sense!" but I was pretty god damn sympathetic for her the entire time when no one close to her could grasp the easily-noticeable signs that something was wrong.
Traci's sister, who met Simone TWICE was literally telling her that Simone looks like her twin (hair, shoes, clothes, handbag, CAR) and mentions it's HER OWN FUCKING BOOK that is playing out. Copycat is literally the title of Traci's book in which she writes a story about people who copy other people in the exact ways that Simone is copying her and she's still like "Nah, it's not like that." BITCH, WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?! I could scream. I need to scream. Please hold...I screamed into a pillow.
Moving right along.
Like I said, I felt bad for Simone the entire time. She had a messed up childhood and pretty much zero support from anyone with her mental instability because, apparently, it's so god damn well hidden. Let's just touch base on the fact that her mother was a drug addict who gave zero shits about her daughter and her grandmother had no issues bringin' the boys home and fucking them in the room adjacent to her elementary-school-aged grandchild. The same grandmother who raised her, yes, and the same woman who has no issues throwing religion in her face about why she should call her mother and why she's a piece of shit for not doing so. The same grandmother who, when Simone brings up "Did you forget that she made me, in elementary school, suck dick so she could get cocaine?", told her to get over it. I. FUCKING. HATE. YOU. How DARE you act like a holier-than-though child of god when--Oh, wait, I forgot. I shouldn't be offended because I don't believe in god and I should just forgive, forgive, forgive everything no matter how fucked up it is anyway.
Pretty much, this book and this author are absolutely not for me. Until that premarital counseling, I was pretty set on the fact that I would be battling between a 2 and a 3-star rating. Thanks to pastor Jackass, it was easier than I thought. The writing was pretty juvenile, her personal and completely biased religious beliefs were shoved in my face with more frequency than I've ever before read in a book I've picked up for pleasure, and every character (aside from the one with the actual mental issue) made me want to punch a cactus. With my face.
At least it was short.
Final rating: 1/5 stars
Let the swearing ensure.
I was so hoping to enjoy it. The premise sounded so intriguing (which, apparently, a lot of people think is an exact copy of Single White Female) so I was so here for it. Maybe about...30% of the way through, my opinions of "Eh, ok. I can get into this!" did an abrupt turnabout to "...why am I still doing this to myself?!"
First of all. Let me just preface this by saying: Everyone is allowed to have, practice, love their religion. There is absolutely nothing wrong with believing in god and being faithful. As a matter of fact, good for you! Personally, I am not religious whatsoever but I have never minded reading about someone who is. However, what I do take issue with is having said religion and rhetoric shoved forcefully down my throat, repeatedly, with no warning. (Note to self: Research a new author a teeny bit before you read their work.)
There was also that little issue of the completely selfish and backwards fiance, Chris. There was a certain part where Simone and he go to see Chris' pastor for their premarital counseling (is that what it's called? Forgive me...) and our dear pastor brings up a few things to them (This is the exact point where my enjoyment ceased and my irritation grew substantially), the main thing being "separate bank accounts".
Now, honestly. Every marriage is different and there is not one specific way to do it right, like everything else in life. Everyone also has different opinions and preferences on how their marriage will be/should be. HOW. FUCKING. EVER. This pastor...BOI THIS PASTOR... he didn't get that memo, mmkay? When he asks Simone "How do you feel about separate bank accounts?" she responds along the lines of liking the idea of both her and her husband not pooling 100% of their money together. Chris looks at her, aghast, and dear, sweet pastor man says says something like "Having separate bank accounts is pretty much equivalent to setting your marriage up for failure." Ex. Cuse. MOI?
This is why I have an issue with this. I strongly believe that every person should have their own money. Women especially. There is nothing wrong with having a joint bank account on top of your own accounts (my husband and I use this for bills and splitting other expenses and such), but having zero sense of financial self, as an independent person, drives me fucking bonkers to even think about. What is your plan "B" in this case? If one person primarily handles paying the bills, how is this a 50/50 thing (if that was your plan)? If shit goes south, what do you do? Just suddenly open up your own account and make a massive withdrawal in which the other person can plainly see? There are so many reasons why this drives me insane and it has absolutely nothing to do with my husband and I trusting each other (that was another point brought up with this). It is 100% about the fact that we do trust each other, we value each other's independence, AND WE ARE ALLOWED TO HAVE OUR OWN GOD DAMN MONEY. And you're going to write in your book, via your religious leader, that my marriage is going to fail because of it? Fuck. You.
After this point, Chris is literally ready to reconsider getting married and wants to back out of a dinner they are going to. Why? Because A)Simone doesn't want to combine 100% of their money into joint accounts and wishes to have some financial independence. B) She wishes to further discuss living arrangements before she sells her condo (like he pretty much demands she do) and move into his house on the grounds that "Well, I have a house" is not a good enough reason for her. C) She would like to seek and discuss other options before commiting herself to his church. (Aka: Independent and intelligent woman who don't ask "how high" when he says "jump" are a fucking problem.) He literally says "I want you to sell your condo. I want you to go to my church and I want us to have joint bank accounts.". That's a whole shit ton of "Me me me" and "I want I want I want" and zero "We are about to go into marriage, a partnership, where both of our opinions, feelings, and wants should be taken into account so, please, let's work something out."
Dillhole, party of one.
Now that I got all of that out...let's get to the part where Simone is mentally unstable and trying to turn herself into a Traci clone.
Girl is screwed up. She had a messed up childhood and a few wires are shorting because of it, which is totally understandable. It's obvious throughout the book that we are supposed to roll our eyes and sigh and want to shake her shoulders and scream "Why? Why are you doing this? What the fuck are you doing this for? It makes no sense!" but I was pretty god damn sympathetic for her the entire time when no one close to her could grasp the easily-noticeable signs that something was wrong.
Traci's sister, who met Simone TWICE was literally telling her that Simone looks like her twin (hair, shoes, clothes, handbag, CAR) and mentions it's HER OWN FUCKING BOOK that is playing out. Copycat is literally the title of Traci's book in which she writes a story about people who copy other people in the exact ways that Simone is copying her and she's still like "Nah, it's not like that." BITCH, WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?! I could scream. I need to scream. Please hold...I screamed into a pillow.
Moving right along.
Like I said, I felt bad for Simone the entire time. She had a messed up childhood and pretty much zero support from anyone with her mental instability because, apparently, it's so god damn well hidden. Let's just touch base on the fact that her mother was a drug addict who gave zero shits about her daughter and her grandmother had no issues bringin' the boys home and fucking them in the room adjacent to her elementary-school-aged grandchild. The same grandmother who raised her, yes, and the same woman who has no issues throwing religion in her face about why she should call her mother and why she's a piece of shit for not doing so. The same grandmother who, when Simone brings up "Did you forget that she made me, in elementary school, suck dick so she could get cocaine?", told her to get over it. I. FUCKING. HATE. YOU. How DARE you act like a holier-than-though child of god when--Oh, wait, I forgot. I shouldn't be offended because I don't believe in god and I should just forgive, forgive, forgive everything no matter how fucked up it is anyway.
Pretty much, this book and this author are absolutely not for me. Until that premarital counseling, I was pretty set on the fact that I would be battling between a 2 and a 3-star rating. Thanks to pastor Jackass, it was easier than I thought. The writing was pretty juvenile, her personal and completely biased religious beliefs were shoved in my face with more frequency than I've ever before read in a book I've picked up for pleasure, and every character (aside from the one with the actual mental issue) made me want to punch a cactus. With my face.
At least it was short.
Final rating: 1/5 stars
February 22, 2017
really a good book. so true, most girls or women just copy each other in the of name fashion or similar taste. i didn't know copycatting could be taken to such extremes. it was kind of sad to know some people would just do this for others approval, so that they can finally approve of them self's.
June 21, 2017
This would have been a neat little story if only it had been written by a fifth-grader; that's how amateur the writing was. Plotwise, it had potential, but this felt like a really, really, really, really rough first draft/outline of a much better novel. The author really needs to work on "show, not tell" and creating realistic dialogue. It killed me that she wasted time on painstakingly describing word for word the process of the main characters shopping for earrings and shoes yet only telling us certain emotions and thought processes of the characters instead of letting us figure them out through their actions. However, there was very little action in this novel/novella at all. I was shocked to read on the inside flap that this was the author's 25th or so book. I wish her the best and I appreciate her attempt at writing from a Christian perspective, but wow. She is just not good. The only reason I finished this book is because it moved very quickly and I had it with me on a trip, so I didn't have many other options.
October 13, 2016
WOW, WOW, WOW! Kimberla Lawson Roby has done it again. I don't think I have ever read a book where Mrs. Roby disappoints. This was an excellent read.
The plot and characters were well written.
Copycat is about Simone Phillips befriending Traci Calloway Cole and it is the best thing Simone Phillips has ever done. Traci is the kind of woman Simone wants to be-in every way possible. She begins copying her role model. Not because she wants to be Traci. She just wants to be exactly like Traci. How far will Simone go?
Congratulation Mrs. Roby on another page turner and 5 star read.
The plot and characters were well written.
Copycat is about Simone Phillips befriending Traci Calloway Cole and it is the best thing Simone Phillips has ever done. Traci is the kind of woman Simone wants to be-in every way possible. She begins copying her role model. Not because she wants to be Traci. She just wants to be exactly like Traci. How far will Simone go?
Congratulation Mrs. Roby on another page turner and 5 star read.
September 8, 2020
why did I finish this book after realizing it wasn't a thriller?
Although the premise sounded like it was a black thriller novel, it was more of a black christian mystery novel that made me sick to my stomach. It was psychological but in a bad way as the character copies her friend because of her less than humble beginnings and you can tell she has a mental issue since she becomes obsessed with her friend. Because there was no action or thrilling aspects to the story, it was just us reading along and realizing someone who's become obsessed and made me extremely icky when it all got exposed and not real repercussions happened.
I wish I unread this.
Also, I figured out it was a christian novel around 30% in the book but didn't mind it but it was the characters that made me hate the book.
Although the premise sounded like it was a black thriller novel, it was more of a black christian mystery novel that made me sick to my stomach. It was psychological but in a bad way as the character copies her friend because of her less than humble beginnings and you can tell she has a mental issue since she becomes obsessed with her friend. Because there was no action or thrilling aspects to the story, it was just us reading along and realizing someone who's become obsessed and made me extremely icky when it all got exposed and not real repercussions happened.
I wish I unread this.
Also, I figured out it was a christian novel around 30% in the book but didn't mind it but it was the characters that made me hate the book.
February 12, 2018
Traci Calloway Cole is about to release her 3rd book called Copycat, when she meets Simone Phillips. Simone is an aspiring writer herself and she loves Traci's books. After Traci agrees to read a few chapters of Simone's book and introduce her to a few people that could help get it published, Simone becomes obsessed. She wants to be just like Traci, but how far will her obsession grow?
This was a quick read for me. I have read a few books by Kimberla Lawson Roby and I have enjoyed them all. She is a great Christian Fiction author.
There are a few people in this world that I look up to and aspire to be, but I don't think would go to the same extremes that Simone goes through. She has quite the troubled past and has never truly discovered who she is as an individual. She already has so many positive things going on in her life. She has a decent job, a fiance and according to Traci, her book is going to be a hit. So why would she need to resort to the antics she pulls throughout this book? It makes her look weak and needy. Will she be able to see the error of her ways and turn things around before it's too late and everything she has worked for blows up in her face?
There are times where I felt sorry for Simone and other times I wanted to smack her and say, can't you see what you are doing is ridiculous and makes you look insane. Unfortunately the one person who told her this, she refused to listen to.
This was a quick read for me. I have read a few books by Kimberla Lawson Roby and I have enjoyed them all. She is a great Christian Fiction author.
There are a few people in this world that I look up to and aspire to be, but I don't think would go to the same extremes that Simone goes through. She has quite the troubled past and has never truly discovered who she is as an individual. She already has so many positive things going on in her life. She has a decent job, a fiance and according to Traci, her book is going to be a hit. So why would she need to resort to the antics she pulls throughout this book? It makes her look weak and needy. Will she be able to see the error of her ways and turn things around before it's too late and everything she has worked for blows up in her face?
There are times where I felt sorry for Simone and other times I wanted to smack her and say, can't you see what you are doing is ridiculous and makes you look insane. Unfortunately the one person who told her this, she refused to listen to.
December 19, 2016
"Was she honoring me when she made me give oral sex to those drug dealers for crack? Was she honoring me then, Grandma? I was still in elementary school."
Read
March 22, 2017I am giving this dud ZERO stars. I was completely shocked when I got to the end and in the acknowledgements the author states she had written 20 something books. WTF? Worst dialogue I have ever read and I read the 50 Shades drivel.
March 21, 2017
Stupidest book ever.
February 23, 2020
Literally the most uneventful boring book ever I’m not sure there was a point or a plot
May 17, 2020
Thank goodness I have never had a "copycat" like Simone.
September 7, 2017
I wish I had done some research on this author before I accepted it from the publisher for reviewing. I would have known then that it most likely wasn't the book for me, but I still would have kept an open mind. However, since I did agree to review it here goes:
I will not be doing a lot of recapping since you can get the gist of the story by reading the synopsis.
What I will tell you is that the story, while an interesting concept, was filled with unlikable characters and not just the protagonist. Traci was unlikable to me too and had a very unusual way of looking at the world around her. The naivete she showed when she ignored Simones 'copying' of her, was just another word for stalking and she should have seen that. Traci is supposed to be a smart, multi book published author yet she doesn’t know that her friend is turning into her twin sister??? I had to stretch myself a little way too far to give any credulity to this story.
That Simone can get away with putting off her fiancé like that, was just another thing that stretched my disbelief.
Further, I am not a fan of fiction - especially women’s fiction, that goes as far as this book did to add Christian beliefs, bible verses etc.
This would have been all been a more believable read had it been for the young adult crowd.
To add to this: the writing was very flat, the characters are one dimensional and there was no growth of ANY of the character’s whatsoever.
*ARC supplied by publisher.
I will not be doing a lot of recapping since you can get the gist of the story by reading the synopsis.
What I will tell you is that the story, while an interesting concept, was filled with unlikable characters and not just the protagonist. Traci was unlikable to me too and had a very unusual way of looking at the world around her. The naivete she showed when she ignored Simones 'copying' of her, was just another word for stalking and she should have seen that. Traci is supposed to be a smart, multi book published author yet she doesn’t know that her friend is turning into her twin sister??? I had to stretch myself a little way too far to give any credulity to this story.
That Simone can get away with putting off her fiancé like that, was just another thing that stretched my disbelief.
Further, I am not a fan of fiction - especially women’s fiction, that goes as far as this book did to add Christian beliefs, bible verses etc.
This would have been all been a more believable read had it been for the young adult crowd.
To add to this: the writing was very flat, the characters are one dimensional and there was no growth of ANY of the character’s whatsoever.
*ARC supplied by publisher.
February 13, 2017
I am happy to report that I enjoyed this book. Kimberla Lawson Roby is a great writer. At times she can be heavy-handed with the religious themes in her work, but this book was a great balance. To be clear, I don't mind the religious aspect of her work. However, I do become annoyed when the religious characters come down on the non-religious characters and when prayer is suggested to handle serious issues, rather than prayer and professional counseling. Roby has been doing a great job at making sure that her characters use that combination or at least consider that combination to resolve their serious issues.
Roby did an awesome job of illustrating Simone attempting to become Traci. It is obvious from the title of the book and blurb on the book what direction the story is going in, but it is interesting actually reading it.
I appreciated how Traci's character was positive and upbeat. Even when she picked up on some of the issues with Simone rather than be mean or spiteful towards Simone, she was nice and continued to try and help her. She was just careful about her choice of clothes in front of her. I don't think that Traci was naive or unaware that Simone was copying her. I felt like she knew about the surface issues, but was still attempting to make the friendship work.
As for Simone, her back story was constructed in a way that made me totally understand why she was copying Traci. I was very happy that at the end of the story in addition to attending church she decided to obtain some professional help.
There were a few other nice additions to this book. Lawson pretty much explains that she won't be selling herself short for a huge book advance. She is sticking to her Christian values. That part was heavy handed and felt like the writer was speaking directly to the reader, but it is her platform. Lawson basically gives aspiring writers a guide on how to send out queries to potential agents.
Overall, this was a good read and it made me quickly preorder her next title. I look forward to more from Roby.
Roby did an awesome job of illustrating Simone attempting to become Traci. It is obvious from the title of the book and blurb on the book what direction the story is going in, but it is interesting actually reading it.
I appreciated how Traci's character was positive and upbeat. Even when she picked up on some of the issues with Simone rather than be mean or spiteful towards Simone, she was nice and continued to try and help her. She was just careful about her choice of clothes in front of her. I don't think that Traci was naive or unaware that Simone was copying her. I felt like she knew about the surface issues, but was still attempting to make the friendship work.
As for Simone, her back story was constructed in a way that made me totally understand why she was copying Traci. I was very happy that at the end of the story in addition to attending church she decided to obtain some professional help.
There were a few other nice additions to this book. Lawson pretty much explains that she won't be selling herself short for a huge book advance. She is sticking to her Christian values. That part was heavy handed and felt like the writer was speaking directly to the reader, but it is her platform. Lawson basically gives aspiring writers a guide on how to send out queries to potential agents.
Overall, this was a good read and it made me quickly preorder her next title. I look forward to more from Roby.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2016
First off, I love the title, Copycat. How fitting! From page one until the end, Copycat takes us on a journey of every author's nightmare. But it also touches on how easy it can be to cross over the line from admiration to jealousy/envy. A big takeaway is how we cannot be too quick to open our hearts and lives to someone without getting to know them well. Our heroine, Traci so badly wanted a friend that she ignored the warning signs because Simone came with several red flags. Simone, a product of her past, accurately represented the person who repeats the same cycle and makes the same mistakes but refuses to change. Simone had everything she needed but she wasn't satisfied. As I read, all I could think about was how we needed to be content with what we have. We have to learn that no matter the state we're in, to be content. A thoughtful read that opens up conversations and hopefully some life-changing reflection.
*** I received an advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.
*** I received an advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.
September 7, 2017
I was hoping for a juicy story, but I am having trouble getting into the amateurish writing. I was surprised to see how many books this author has published. It's true that I typically prefer other genres of books, but once in a while I like to cleanse my palate with something simple and juicy...only not THIS simple. There are also some things that don't make any sense, like one character not hesitating to buy a Gucci purse, but seems to have some apprehension spending $300 on a blouse or $200 on shoes. There is no real story or character development, and none of the tedious details move the story along. There are also too many useless personal thought details that make the story monotonous and boring instead of it being a rich tapestry of emotion as I imagine was intended.
I will definitely not read any more of her work.
I will definitely not read any more of her work.
July 7, 2017
So Kimberla Lawson Roby is truly one of my favorite authors. But keeping it real this was one of the worse books that I have read from her. I love the Curtis Black Series, but for some reason her stand alone books just don't do it for me. The best thing about this book for me was the cover. I loved the split facial image. The book spoke about women who befriend other women just to emulate their lives to make themselves feel good and relevant, all because they are not happy within their own skin. Good topic, bad writing. So looking forward to her next Curtis Black book, A Sinful Calling🙌
February 10, 2017
Very short read (listen). Pretty light story, aside from the copycat and her revealed secrets. Nothing too heavy was delved into but there was potential to get a little deep and raw. I felt sorry for the copycat actually, you could definitely tell there was genuinely something wrong mentally... I don't want to give anything away so I'll end with that. Still a Kimberla Lawson Roby fan, I was just expecting a little more (longer) story as with her other books.
December 14, 2020
I thought the ending would have been more intense but it was kind of just a tattletale situation. It was fun to read for the most part and one of the characters is clearly a huge psycho through the whole thing. I think there could have been a bit more mystery and a more intense climax.
July 19, 2018
Uggghhhh. The "single white female" (a reference, of course, to the movie, which is one of my favorites of all time) concept is always an interesting starting point for a story. There are so many angles to explore, so many directions for the story to take, so many ways to build complex, interesting characters. Despite its being a popular trope it hasn't been played out so much that it's no longer a viable plot in the hands of a good storyteller. This book, despite the promise of the description on the back cover, met none of those criteria.
The dialogue was so juvenile as to be laughable in some points. I felt like I was reading an old young adult Donna Parker book. It was stilted and weird, and at no point did it feel natural or conversational.
"I am a writer."
"Wow, I am a writer, too! So neat!"
"I will look at your manuscript."
"Thank you. I am a big fan."
How does an entire book of that dialogue sound? Terrible? Yeah, it was.
The characters were flat, as well. They had no dimensions or complexity, and it was impossible to figure out their motivations because there was absolutely no logic to anything they did. They were simply props to propel the message that the author wanted to convey. The author did not take any time exploring the potential psychological complexities involved with this type of obsession, nor did she provide a satisfying resolution to the issue. The stalkee learned her lesson and was healed because Jesus, and everything was fine and they lived happily ever after.
Trite, sentimental, poorly written nonsense.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The dialogue was so juvenile as to be laughable in some points. I felt like I was reading an old young adult Donna Parker book. It was stilted and weird, and at no point did it feel natural or conversational.
"I am a writer."
"Wow, I am a writer, too! So neat!"
"I will look at your manuscript."
"Thank you. I am a big fan."
How does an entire book of that dialogue sound? Terrible? Yeah, it was.
The characters were flat, as well. They had no dimensions or complexity, and it was impossible to figure out their motivations because there was absolutely no logic to anything they did. They were simply props to propel the message that the author wanted to convey. The author did not take any time exploring the potential psychological complexities involved with this type of obsession, nor did she provide a satisfying resolution to the issue. The stalkee learned her lesson and was healed because Jesus, and everything was fine and they lived happily ever after.
Trite, sentimental, poorly written nonsense.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2017
When people become copycats to the level of obsession, they're dealing with much deeper issues, such as envy and jealousy. They have also lost a great sense of self and their overall identity. They are trying to be something or someone they are not.
When does it become obsession? Simone Phillips has a trail of broken relationships but she feels that it all will change when she meets Traci Calloway Cole. They become friends when she reveals to Traci that she hopes to write a book. Traci is a successful author and feels a connection to Simone. Simone takes her friendship to Traci to the next level when she copies her look, her apartment, her church, her social media, and her life to look like Traci. Simone's obsession takes her down a path that becomes destructive.
The narration was juvenile and somewhat disconnected so it became difficult for me to connect to these characters. Traci was not aware of what Simone was doing but everyone close to her could see it. Traci had just published a book called Copycat that described Simone to a t. It would have served the plot better if Simone character was more developed. To feel her pain instead of being offended by her actions. Traci was to much of enabler instead encourager.
A good plot but weak in character development.
A Special Thank You to Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
When does it become obsession? Simone Phillips has a trail of broken relationships but she feels that it all will change when she meets Traci Calloway Cole. They become friends when she reveals to Traci that she hopes to write a book. Traci is a successful author and feels a connection to Simone. Simone takes her friendship to Traci to the next level when she copies her look, her apartment, her church, her social media, and her life to look like Traci. Simone's obsession takes her down a path that becomes destructive.
The narration was juvenile and somewhat disconnected so it became difficult for me to connect to these characters. Traci was not aware of what Simone was doing but everyone close to her could see it. Traci had just published a book called Copycat that described Simone to a t. It would have served the plot better if Simone character was more developed. To feel her pain instead of being offended by her actions. Traci was to much of enabler instead encourager.
A good plot but weak in character development.
A Special Thank You to Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
May 29, 2017
I don't generally write out reviews, but this book was so bad it calls for it. I saw it on the new releases shelf at my library and the description sounded interesting enough. The dialog was the worst I have ever read. And, there is absolutely no character development. Had it not been a fast, short read, I would have not have wasted my time. I finished it in a few hours, but I still feel like I wasted my time. I would recommend a hard pass on this one.
February 6, 2017
Flawless, easy read. Think Single White Female, many points for discussion but something was missing. I am friends with many writers in life and social media and if I ever become a Simone I need to be punched in the throat.
June 30, 2017
Dialogue and characters flat.
March 15, 2017
This was short but yet interesting read. Kimberla Lawson Roby never disappoints. Even though this wasn't my favorite of her books it was still a page turner. I can't wait until I've read all of her books. But to you all take the time to read her book and let me know what you thinkof it.......
October 10, 2018
I was not aware this was chic-lit christian. The scripture and prayer did not bother me as much as the over the top exaggerating of poor girl bad life growing up to want the good life now story was too much and then it was too predictable for me.
I will say if I was reading this in July in the pool I wouldn't care or notice as much but it's fall and paying attention to detail now!
I will say if I was reading this in July in the pool I wouldn't care or notice as much but it's fall and paying attention to detail now!
November 18, 2025
Traci’s naiveness and Simone’s lack of insight made it hard for me to fully connect with the story, so I landed on a 2.5 out of 5. Still, the book definitely kept my attention from start to finish.
October 17, 2016
Kimberla L. Roby's new book, Copycat, is awesome. Mrs. Roby never disappoint her fans and her writing style is easy to follow. Please note that this book is set to be released January 2017. I was given the privilege, by Ella D. Curry, to give a review.
Here's a little background of the book. Have you ever wanted to become someone else and you will do any thing and every thing to make it happen. This book is about copycatting. Simone Phillips wants to become a writer, just like her favorite author. Simone meets her favorite author, Traci Calloway Cole, at a beauty salon. She's on pins and needles about seeing her in the same place as she is. She strikes up a conversation with Traci and tells her that she's her role model. After the conversation she and Traci exchange numbers and other contact information. But before long, Simone starts dressing like Traci, she changes her hair style to look like Traci's, and she buys a car (the same model and make) as Traci. Traci thinks that Simone doesn't mean any harm and that Simone just need a friend. How far will Simone take this obsession?
I love this book and as I stated before Mrs. Roby never disappoints her fans.
Here's a little background of the book. Have you ever wanted to become someone else and you will do any thing and every thing to make it happen. This book is about copycatting. Simone Phillips wants to become a writer, just like her favorite author. Simone meets her favorite author, Traci Calloway Cole, at a beauty salon. She's on pins and needles about seeing her in the same place as she is. She strikes up a conversation with Traci and tells her that she's her role model. After the conversation she and Traci exchange numbers and other contact information. But before long, Simone starts dressing like Traci, she changes her hair style to look like Traci's, and she buys a car (the same model and make) as Traci. Traci thinks that Simone doesn't mean any harm and that Simone just need a friend. How far will Simone take this obsession?
I love this book and as I stated before Mrs. Roby never disappoints her fans.
February 7, 2017
Kimberla Lawson Roby never disappoints. She is one of my favorite authors and her novels are auto-buys for me. I always get excited when I receive notification that she has a new book release. I know I'm in for a good read. Why do I love her writing? Mrs. Roby knows how to engage the reader. She knows her way around developing a good plot and characters you either love deep or hate immensely. However, let me stop gushing and explain a bit about Copycat.
First I'll just start by saying Simone is a scary character, but very relevant. With social media and all the show and without tell we've become a society of envy and resentment. It's not ideal to just see the good in people and dismiss their bad/strange behavior. I wanted more character development. That would've entailed a longer book. However, Copycat was an entertaining page-turner. I read it in one sitting. This book will elicit lots of discussion. At what point does too much admiration and idolization become unhealthy?
I'd like to thank Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for the opportunity to read and review Copycat.
First I'll just start by saying Simone is a scary character, but very relevant. With social media and all the show and without tell we've become a society of envy and resentment. It's not ideal to just see the good in people and dismiss their bad/strange behavior. I wanted more character development. That would've entailed a longer book. However, Copycat was an entertaining page-turner. I read it in one sitting. This book will elicit lots of discussion. At what point does too much admiration and idolization become unhealthy?
I'd like to thank Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for the opportunity to read and review Copycat.
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