A Simple Favor (novel)

A Simple Favor is a 2017 thriller novel by Darcey Bell. The story revolves around Stephanie Smothers, a widowed mommy blogger in suburban Connecticut, whose seemingly perfect life is upended when her charismatic best friend, Emily Nelson, mysteriously disappears.

The narrative unfolds primarily through Stephanie's first-person perspective, interspersed with blog posts and occasional flashbacks. As Stephanie delves into Emily's past, she uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and manipulations that challenge her perception of their friendship and Emily's true identity.

Key themes explored in A Simple Favor include the complexities of female friendship, the deceptive nature of appearances, the pressures of modern motherhood, and the dark undercurrents simmering beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic suburban life.

The novel gained popularity for its suspenseful plot, darkly comedic tone, and unexpected twists. It was adapted into a critically and commercially successful film of the same name in 2018, directed by Paul Feig and starring Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively. The success of the film further boosted the novel's readership.