Book Review: The Gatecrasher by Sophie Kinsella writing as Madeleine Wickham.

What I enjoyed about this story is that it is different to other chick lits I have read. There are no cupcakes, designer bags (although there are a few expensive black hats) or bitchy friends. Don't get me wrong, I love a cupcake and allowing my imagination to picture glamorous outfits and a bit of girly chat, but what I loved about this book is that it moves away from that and focuses on family and their dysfunctional relationships.

This is the first book I've read written by Madeleine, rather than her pen name Sophie, and my first opinion is that the two styles are different. Madeleine's style in 'The Gatecrasher' was gritty, as this book tackles issues of deceit, fraud, abuse, friendship and love.

I can honestly say that I could not work out the ending of this book, it could have gone a number of ways. I think Madeleine wrote a realistic and balanced ending, ensuring to address all the main characters in the book. I think there could be scope for a part two to 'The Gatecrasher' if Madeleine decided she wanted to continue the reader's journey on Fleur's life.

I would certainly like to read another one of Madeleine's books and will be on the lookout for some when I rummage through the book shelves in charity shops.

Here is more about 'The Gatecrasher'...

Book Blurb taken from Amazon:

Fleur is beautiful, unscrupulous, and has a large wardrobe of black designer suits. With the help of The Times announcements page she gatecrashes the funerals and memorial services of the wealthy, preying on rich, vulnerable men. She charms her way into their lives and onto their platinum credit cards, takes what she can, and then moves swiftly on.

When Richard, a dull but wealthy businessman, meets Fleur at his wife's memorial service, he's bowled over. Gradually Fleur works her spell on Richard's family - transforming their lives while she moves in on their wealth. But she finds herself lingering longer than she meant to ...

Rebekah Louise has written two books, you can view them here below: