Fiction

Confessions Of A Shopaholic, by Sophie Kinsella

Sophie Kinsella writes a lively tale full of humorous anecdotes in Confessions Of A Shopaholic. I knew right away that I would have much in common with Rebecca Bloomwood and her money-hungry, guilty situation. Rebecca is an intelligent character who hides her shopping addiction from everyone and still manages to hold a prestigious job as a financial reporter.

I laughed out loud during many scenes as Rebecca finds herself in one perilous position after another. Her self deprecating attitude endears the readers to her and you'll find yourself routing for her as she tries one money making scheme after the next - only to fail. Her life hits rock bottom when her creditors start harassing her and cancels her credit cards. Not knowing what to do she flees her flat that she shares with a roommate to hide in her parents house. Quickly she begins to sort her life out and try to become the new and improved money manager.

This book, on some levels, was very stressful for me to read. For anyone who has ever had money problems or credit debt can quickly become sucked into this very real account of how it encompasses your life. However, if you are looking for this book to shed light on how to overcome your spending - look elsewhere. Rebecca's solution for paying off her credit cards does not come with being frugal. She ironically lands several high paying jobs and snatches a rich boyfriend to solve her debt. She is not cured, nor attempts to cure herself of her spending addiction.

This is a light read and one that will entertain on many levels and although you are relived for her you can't help being annoyed that she lands in more fortunate times when theoretically you wish for her to turn over a new leaf and start a new life holding tight to her pocketbook.

I love the style of Kinsella's writing, she is touching and quick with humor. As an American reading the book I'm in 'stitches' over the British twist of language. Parts seem funnier when words are used like, 'Crikey' and 'Gobsmacked'. If you read this book and can't get enough of the wacky and warm Rebecca Bloomwood look for her latest escapades as The Shopaholic Takes Manhattan.

Other similar fiction:

- The Shopaholic Takes Manhattan
- Bridget Jones' Diary
- The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
- Rachel's Holiday ~ Read DivaTribe Review

This review is available for reprint.