Becky Bloomwood has what many twenty-somethings would only dream of. A flat in the trendiest neighbourhood in London, glamorous socialite friends, and a closet filled to the brim with the latest clothes.

But, there's just one problem. She can't afford them.

Writing for a magazine called Successful Savings is not only ironic, but bores her to tears and doesn't pay much at all.

But, how can she resist the perfect pair of shoes? Or the coat that's calling out to her from the store's window?

However, lately, she's being chased by letters from Endwich Bank and Visa, and they're getting harder and harder to ignore. She's tried cutting back, really, she has, and she even tried to make more money, but nothing seems to be working.

Her only consolation is to buy herself just a little something...

Finally, a story arises that Becky is interested in, and her front-page article catalyses a chain of events that will transform her life, and the lives around her, forever.

- - - - - - -

Review:

Mixed feelings.

That's the only way to describe what I was going through when I finished this book.

On one hand, this book is funny. 

I found myself laughing out loud when reading about the ridiculous ideas Becky Bloomwood conjures in order to save money, and how her efforts never ever seem to succeed. Kinsella's writing style really brings the protagonist to life, and the way that we are reading Becky's every thought, reminds me a lot of Bridget Jones' Diary, as the absurd behaviour and constant rambling is similar in both books, and is what makes Confessions of a Shopaholic so endearing. 

Kinsella effortlessly created a main character that was relatable, and I found myself nodding along to some of the things she was saying, thinking "oh yes, that is just like me", or "that's exactly what my friend says!". Too often, characters in books don't have an aspect of their personality that people can connect with, and they seem far too unrealistic. However, the people in this book, have somewhat hilarious personalities.

One thing you need to remember when reading this book is that it should not be taken seriously. It needs to be seen as what it is - hilarious chick-lit. This novel is fluffy, light and what you would read while sitting by the beach and relaxing. Although it isn't completely mindless, it won't make you think that hard either, and you aren't going to discover yourself while reading it. But, it is a book that warms your heart by the end and makes you laugh till you cry. 

On the other hand, if I was to look at this book in a serious frame of mind, then I would be a very disappointed and exasperated reader. When digging deeper into Becky's characterisation and personality, you find that she is self-absorbed, irritating, a scatter-brain and bad at her job.

There really is no Aha! moment for her in this book, as it is quite predictable. Okay yes, she eventually gets her debt somewhat sorted out, and somewhere along the line she marries The Guy.

Why The Guy, who is intelligent and completely rational, would marry an annoying mess in Prada heels is absolutely beyond me, but maybe that is the point of the book? Even if you're swimming in debt and your entire world revolves around you, you'll still get The Guy of your dreams?

If I view this book from a logical point of view, then I'm definitely not buying the storyline (and maybe Becky should take a hint and stop buying too), and I think it was a waste of a read, however, if I stop thinking about everything as if I need to write an analytical essay, and just read the book or what it is - a humorous, light read - then it is pretty great. Think about the situation you could read this novel in, it's perfect for travelling, because you can literally devour it in seconds, and you won't be left with a headache or anything to think about.

RATING: 3.5/5

As many people would know, this book was made into a movie (a great one, at that), starring Isla Fisher, so here is the trailer, in case you haven't seen it. I would really recommend people watching it, even if you haven't read the book, because it is so light-hearted, and Isla is not only representing Australia (aussie aussie aussie), but is also a brilliant actress!!

- - - - - -

What did you guys think of this review?

Have you read this book? If so, what did you think of it? 

Would you read this book after seeing this review?

Have you got any suggestions for future books that I read and review? I need ideas!

LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW!

-Tyra xx

http://static.tumblr.com/855c15b5f9513f457ea1fde5364b5cfe/sno21vj/V4knst6gk/tumblr_static_ae440dqs65ckcwck4oowowg8o.gif
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/0d/89/d6/0d89d6025b7e30dc496323f7e8b75b7f.jpg
http://65.media.tumblr.com/18189dbaab84a4c0e82d91ae2a945b57/tumblr_o15v0j7njz1tgziz6o1_500.jpg