My Not So Perfect Life - Sophie Kinsella

Description

Part love story, part workplace drama, this sharply observed novel is a witty critique of the false judgments we make in a social-media-obsessed world. New York Times bestselling author Sophie Kinsella has written her most timely novel yet.
 
Everywhere Katie Brenner looks, someone else is living the life she longs for, particularly her boss, Demeter Farlowe. Demeter is brilliant and creative, lives with her perfect family in a posh townhouse, and wears the coolest clothes. Katie’s life, meanwhile, is a daily struggle—from her dismal rental to her oddball flatmates to the tense office politics she’s trying to negotiate. No wonder Katie takes refuge in not-quite-true Instagram posts, especially as she's desperate to make her dad proud.
            
Then, just as she’s finding her feet—not to mention a possible new romance—the worst happens. Demeter fires Katie. Shattered but determined to stay positive, Katie retreats to her family’s farm in Somerset to help them set up a vacation business. London has never seemed so far away—until Demeter unexpectedly turns up as a guest. Secrets are spilled and relationships rejiggered, and as the stakes for Katie’s future get higher, she must question her own assumptions about what makes for a truly meaningful life.

Review

I've read all of Sophie Kinsella's books and was eagerly awaiting the release of this latest book. I have to say I was not disappointed - it's a really lovely book.

I loved the character of Katie - she is a little more grown up than Becky from the Shopaholic books - but only just! She is trying to be a London girl and leave her Somerset roots behind, including her accent. Using Instragram to portray to the world her fantastic life in London - or not. This aspect of the book is bang on trend, with so many people living a life through Instragram that does not exist.

When everything finally goes wrong for Katie (or Cat) in London she goes back to Somerset and helps her Father and Step Mum set up a glamping business. I loved this aspect of the book, reading all the planning details, and who wouldn't want parents just like Mick and Biddy.

When Demeter (her ex-boss) arrives at the glamping site the book takes a truly wicked sense of humour turn - fantastic retribution. Just laugh out loud funny, as is a lot of the book. The story changes pace from this point on as Katie realises all may not be what she thought it to be in London. I loved it even more and couldn't wait to find out what was going to become of Katie - would she be a London or Somerset girl. Some of it is true chick lit - some of it predictable. However, it's a great read and perfect to enjoy for some relaxation time.