The Bookish Ashley

Layne Fargo’s The Favorites is an electrifying and deeply emotional dive into the high-stakes world of figure skating, where the competition isn’t just on the ice—it’s in every facet of life. The novel centers on Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha, childhood friends turned ice-dancing champions, whose chemistry both on and off the rink has captivated audiences. But the fame, pressure, and secrets they share eventually lead to a catastrophic unraveling.

From the opening pages, Fargo immerses us in the icy, glittering world of competitive figure skating. Kat’s fierce determination and Heath’s unpolished grit make them an unconventional yet mesmerizing duo. Their partnership is as much about survival as it is about skating, with each finding solace in the other against the backdrop of tumultuous childhoods. Fargo does a masterful job capturing the physicality of the sport—the blisters, bruises, and breathtaking moments of triumph—and weaving it seamlessly into the emotional intensity of Kat and Heath’s bond.

The story unfolds in two timelines: the present day, where Kat wrestles with her past as an unauthorized documentary stirs up old wounds, and the past, which details their meteoric rise and devastating fall. This dual narrative adds layers of suspense, slowly peeling back the layers of their relationship and the shocking incident that ended their partnership.

Fargo shines in her exploration of fame and the cost of living under a microscope. The portrayal of Kat’s struggle to reclaim her narrative is especially compelling, as the public obsession with her life—and the salacious rumors surrounding it—threaten to overshadow her legacy. The secondary characters, particularly the skating rivals and documentary filmmakers, add texture to the story, though some feel more like plot devices than fully fleshed-out individuals.

What sets The Favorites apart is its raw, unflinching look at the complexities of love, ambition, and loyalty. Kat and Heath’s relationship is as beautiful as it is toxic, and Fargo doesn’t shy away from showing their flaws. At times, their dynamic felt almost too heavy, making it hard to root for them as individuals. However, this realism is also what makes their story so gripping.

While the ending offers resolution, it leaves just enough ambiguity to keep readers pondering the “real story.” The pacing, particularly in the middle, drags slightly as the back-and-forth timelines build to the climactic reveal, but the payoff is worth the wait.

Overall, The Favorites is a poignant, thrilling exploration of the highs and lows of a life lived in the spotlight. Fans of sports dramas, complicated relationships, and stories about reclaiming power will find much to love here. Layne Fargo has delivered a story that is as cutting and unforgettable as a perfectly executed double axel.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely. Whether you’re a fan of figure skating or simply love a juicy, character-driven drama, The Favorites is a must-read. Just be prepared to have your heart broken—and pieced back together—by Kat and Heath’s unforgettable story.

Rating: 4/5 Stars