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Ica's Reviews > The Favorites
The Favorites
by
by
This book was an absolute whirlwind—entertaining, messy, and scandalous in the best way! I devoured it. Initially, I hesitated, assuming it was just another sports romance, but it turned out to be so much more. At its core, The Favorites is about a woman determined to forge her own path, both on and off the ice.
The story unfolds through an unauthorized documentary filmed ten years after Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha’s final skate—the last time the world heard from Katarina. Friends, rivals, and insiders weigh in, but Katarina is set on reclaiming her own narrative. The book alternates between interview transcripts (in a style reminiscent of 'Daisy Jones & The Six') and Katarina’s first-person account, drawing readers into the dramatic rise and fall that made her infamous.
The characters are incredibly well-developed—flawed, complex, and deeply human. You might hate them at times, but their authenticity is undeniable. Katarina, in particular, is unapologetically ambitious, and while some readers might judge her for her selfishness, I found her determination compelling.
Beyond the personal drama, the book also explores the ruthless demands placed on athletes, especially women—how the world expects them to give everything for success and then condemns them for the choices they make to get there. It also delves into relationships, both platonic and romantic, embracing their imperfections and toxicity in a way that feels raw and real.
Like I said—messy, dramatic, and juicy. And I loved every second of it. It might not be the most heartwarming or poetic book out there, but it’s an absolute page-turner. Five stars from me!
If you enjoyed 'Daisy Jones & The Six', 'Wuthering Heights' (there are light nods to the classic), or 'I, Tonya', this one is a must-read.
The story unfolds through an unauthorized documentary filmed ten years after Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha’s final skate—the last time the world heard from Katarina. Friends, rivals, and insiders weigh in, but Katarina is set on reclaiming her own narrative. The book alternates between interview transcripts (in a style reminiscent of 'Daisy Jones & The Six') and Katarina’s first-person account, drawing readers into the dramatic rise and fall that made her infamous.
The characters are incredibly well-developed—flawed, complex, and deeply human. You might hate them at times, but their authenticity is undeniable. Katarina, in particular, is unapologetically ambitious, and while some readers might judge her for her selfishness, I found her determination compelling.
Beyond the personal drama, the book also explores the ruthless demands placed on athletes, especially women—how the world expects them to give everything for success and then condemns them for the choices they make to get there. It also delves into relationships, both platonic and romantic, embracing their imperfections and toxicity in a way that feels raw and real.
Like I said—messy, dramatic, and juicy. And I loved every second of it. It might not be the most heartwarming or poetic book out there, but it’s an absolute page-turner. Five stars from me!
If you enjoyed 'Daisy Jones & The Six', 'Wuthering Heights' (there are light nods to the classic), or 'I, Tonya', this one is a must-read.
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Reading Progress
February 1, 2025
–
Started Reading
February 2, 2025
– Shelved
February 3, 2025
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Finished Reading
