Arabelle's Shadows Review

Arabelle's Shadows

By Fleur Gaskin

Published November 25th, 2012 by Createspace Independent Pulblishing Platform

268 pages

4 stars - Great Read!

*This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review*

Everything in Arabelle's life is coming together. She has confidence, great friends, she's even dating Naak, a wealthy Thai socialite. But there are too many models in Bangkok. Arabelle’s broke, she can’t find an agent in New York, and Naak isn’t as wonderful as he first appears. Slowly the Shadows creep back into Arabelle’s mind, bringing with them thoughts of hopelessness and despair. The vile Shadows know something Arabelle’s refusing to remember and, if she’s not careful, they’ll use it to destroy her. Based on a true story, Arabelle’s Shadows takes us on a journey through the struggles of growing up, not quite making it as an international model, and attempting to overcome a crushing depression.

So I recently received this book from the author and after reading the blurb from the back of the book I was intrigued. Arabelle's Shadows did not disappoint and really got me thinking about the struggles in our lives and the things that we expect to make us happy. The author, Fleur Gaskin, had a purpose in writing this novel. It was to show that while we yearn for wealth, beauty, thinness and many more material things they aren't what brings us happiness. I like this lesson and I think Gaskin achieved her purpose. 

So while I did find Arabelle's Shadows intriguing and would recommend it I also want to comment on the material in the book. I'm not sure what age groups view my reviews but I just want to mention that some of the material in this book might be a little mature for some younger readers. Other than that it was a great book and gave me many things to think about. 

Arabelle's Shadows is based on a true story and really does take the reader on a journey through Arabelle's life. And while we learn of the struggles of a young woman trying to make it as a model we also learn of the struggles of a young woman growing up. It was interesting to read about what models have to go through and the difficulties of making it in that industry. I liked the idea of Gaskin describing the depression and dark thoughts as Shadows that creep into your mind and make you feel less than you are. It was also great to see Arabelle grow and realize that wealth and beauty and all that doesn't bring you true happiness. You can tell because the book is written in a diary like format. We are reading Arabelle's diary entries and watching as she learns to deal with the Shadows that have always consumed her. 

Arabelle's Shadows was a good book and it was really thought provoking and interesting. Once again I feel that Gaskin did a great job at showing us the life of a model and a young woman growing up and learning to face her Shadows. And once again keep in mind that, while some of this material is something that a lot of us will have to go through in life, it may also be for mature readers.So anyways check it out and see what you think.

Vanessa