Usually, the sequels to books just don't compare to the original story. But Kinsella managed to take me by surprise. Shopaholic Takes Manhattan was just as good as the first book in the series, if it did not surpass it.
Some similarities: like the first novel, Becky and the other characters and fun and original. They have fresh but realistic personalities. Each person I could imagine in real life: the workaholic, the flamboyant male best friend, the doting and caring mother. Another similarity is Becky's hilarious antics and thoughts.
Just an example: Becky and Luke spend the weekend in a small village. And while Luke is at a meeting, Becky decides to visit the nearby convent. Unaware of the proper behavior for a church, Becky tries to hold a conversation with a praying nun, disturbing and annoying the women. She talks about the movie, The Sound of Music, and then, thinking the nun is staring at her because she doesnt know what a movie is, begins to tell her about modern day technology. What a television is, what a film is, and on, and on, and on, and on.
This scene alone had me in hysterics.
But some differences between the first and second novel: I believe this novel had a stronger plot, for Becky dealt with troubles far greater than wanting to buy the latest pair of Jimmy Choos. I also enjoyed how Kinsella changed the scenery. Although I loved how the first story took place in London, the switch to New York really provided a new feel for the story, and it wasnt as if Kinsella was just dragging the story on.
I recommend this for anyone who enjoyed the first novel in the series - obviously - and for those who like Target Underwear and A Vera Wang Dress: Notes from a Single Girl's Closet, in addition to Can You Keep A Secret?, also by Kinsella.
No comments:
Post a Comment