Why Can't I Be You

By: Allie Larkin

Narrated by: Julia Whelan

At one time or another, everyone has wished they could be someone else. Exploring this universal longing, Allie Larkin follows up the success of her debut novel, Stay, with a moving portrait of friendship and identity.

When Jenny Shaw hears someone shout "Jessie!" across a hotel lobby, she impulsively answers. All her life, Jenny has toed the line, but something propels her to seize the opportunity to become Jessie Morgan, a woman to whom she bears an uncanny resemblance. Lonely in her own life, Jenny is embraced by Jessie’s warm circle of friends - and finds unexpected romance. But when she delves into Jessie’s past, Jenny discovers a secret that spurs her to take another leap into the unknown.

©2013 Allie Larkin (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, all rights reserved. Recorded by arrangement with Plume, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

Critic reviews

"Allie Larkin’s latest explores an intriguing question: What if you could shed your own life, and step into someone else’s? Why Can’t I Be You is a thoughtful and compulsively readable examination of identity, friendship, and trust - and what happens when all three spectacularly collide." (Sarah Pekkanen, author of These Girls)

"Brilliant... It’s not until we’ve let go of who we think we should be that we can discover who we actually are." (Amy Hatvany, author of Outside the Lines)

Fun, Intriguing story

I struggled with the first chapter, as the main character, Jenny, came across whimpy to me, in voice and character. I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy this book, and almost stopped listening. I'm really glad I decided to continue listening. The initial tone was purposeful. This ended up being a captivating and thoroughly enjoyable story! I will definitely recommend it to others.

I enjoyed every bit of this story

This book was a total surprise, an enjoyable surprise. I love everything Julia Whelan narrates and thought I'd give Allie Larkin a try. What I received was a delightful story with a feel good ending.

Very good

Love the 3 books I've read by Allie Larkin! Can't wait for more! Waiting for more...

Great Story

Very touching story, that I think many can relate to. Wanting to step into someone else's shoes, even just for a few days. Expect to possibly cry though. Often.

Silly

Chick lit regarding mistaken identity. I usually read thrillers and wanted something lighter as a break. But the charade of our heroine successfully passing as someone else not only wears thin but strains credibility. Also, there just wasn't enough at stake to keep me interested.