Book Review: Confessions of a Shopaholic

Title:  Confessions of a Shopaholic

Author:  Sophie Kinsella

Publication Year:  2001

Description from Goodreads.com:

  

Becky Bloomwood has what most twenty-five-year-olds only dream of: a flat in London's trendiest neighborhood, a troupe of glamorous socialite friends, and a closet brimming with the season's must-haves. The only trouble is, she can't actually afford it --- not any of it. Her job writing at Successful Saving magazine not only bores her to tears, it doesn't pay much at all. Still, how can she resist that perfect pair of shoes? Or the divine silk blouse in the window of that ultra-trendy boutique? But lately Becky's been chased by dismal letters from Visa and the Endwich Bank --- letters with large red sums she can't bear to read --- and they're getting ever harder to ignore. She tries cutting back; she even tries making more money. But none of her efforts succeeds. Her only consolation is to buy herself something ... just a little something ...

Finally, a story arises that Becky actually cares about, and her front-page article catalyzes a chain of events that will transform her life --- and the lives of those around her --- forever.

I Gave It:  4 Stars

This light and fluffy novel was a breath of fresh air - nay, a strong steady breeze of giggles and oh-my-goodness head shakes.  As someone who has quite the opposite problem of a shopaholic, it was so much fun being inside the mind of a crazed shopping fiend while knowing my own bank accounts weren't suffering for it.  Kinsella does a phenomenal job of drawing the reader into Becky's world through the non-stop running commentary that is the entire book, where we learn about Becky's weaknesses and strengths and her adorable heart. 

There was the predictable romance and the save-the-day ending but it was played out very well. We knew what was going to happen but we didn't know quite how sweet Becky was going to get there - and if she'd have her wits about her when she did!  

Overall, a very easy read that doesn't need a special occasion or mood to suit it.  I'm looking forward to reading my borrowed copy of Shopaholic Takes Manhattan soon!