Printable Book Club Questions for Counterfeit by Kirstin Chen

Did you know much about the counterfeit purse market prior to reading the novel? What are some of the more surprising aspects to you?
Why do you think handbags, in particular, are a status symbol?
The story is mainly told through Ava recounting the counterfeit journey to a detective—what did you think about this storytelling technique?
Ava is obsession with image and perfection. She believes she went to the best school, picked the right career, successful husband, etc. But we see that there are big cracks within her facade, especially when it comes to her parenting a challenging toddler. Let’s discuss this pursuit of perfection and how it can be harmful.
Why did Winnie believe that Ava would go along with the counterfeit scheme? When did Winnie observe a more darker side to Ava?
And on the same note, why did Ava agree to it?
In both her daily life and when talking with the detective, Ava puts on the perception of a model minority. Let’s talk about how the author and its main characters challenged Asian stereotypes.
When did you start to suspect that Ava wasn’t telling the whole truth?
Who do you think was the more reliable narrator—Ava or Winnie?
What is your overall impression of their friendship?
What do you think about the ending? Will their diamond operation be successful or do you think they’ll get caught again?
The novel is being adapted for TV. What aspects do you hope are included in the TV version?
What are some other type of scam stories you’ve read about or watched lately?