I received an Advanced Reading Copy of this book for review from Grand Central Publishing. The opinions shared below are my own.

“Copycat,” the new standalone novel by New York Times Bestselling Author Kimberla Lawson Roby, calls into question if imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

Centered on how deep-seeded envy of another can go too far, Roby takes readers on a journey, revealing some of the most toxic elements humans possess – the ability to lie, to be deceitful and to hurt others.

In the book,the central characters Simone Phillips and Traci Calloway Cole meet and quickly become friends. As their friendship develops, Simone’s imitation and desire to be more than she is results in many strange, often unexplainable, coincidences. Simone’s envious behavior, while seeking to forget the life she once had,reveals a painful past and a very unsure future.

Roby does an amazing job developing and bringing each character to life. The plot will maintain the interest of readers with its twists and turns; although, it becomes predictable at several moments throughout.

This is the second book I have read by Roby (the first was “A Sinful Calling”) and I find her writing approachable and engaging. She is truly an expert at character development and has mastered the ability to keep a story moving forward.

“Copycat” is scheduled for release in late January 2017. Preorder a copy here. Learn more about Kimberla Lawson Roby and her other books here.