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"Did she really just say that? I am fifteen again, except the reality is I am experiencing full parental horror, aged twenty-five. I want to die."
Life hasn't quite worked out how Arielle Lockley imagined it would. Becoming the next Coco Chanel was always her childhood dream, but she's spent the past four years living a dizzying whirl of glitzy parties, luxurious holidays and daily shopping sprees - all paid for by boyfriend Piers - and not doing anything to make her Coco dreams happen.
When the recession hits, it's not just the economy that takes a tumble and Arielle finds herself living back with her parents, on bad terms with Piers, and having a CV that's as welcome as a pair of knock-off Jimmy Choos. And maybe it's the location, but she's also finding unwelcome thoughts of her childhood sweetheart are popping into her head...
What's a girl to do? Can Arielle figure out what it is she now wants to do with her life and move on, or will she be doomed to spend the rest of her life dwelling over her worst mistakes, stuck listening to her parents' embarrassing dinner table talk each night?
Life hasn't quite worked out how Arielle Lockley imagined it would. Becoming the next Coco Chanel was always her childhood dream, but she's spent the past four years living a dizzying whirl of glitzy parties, luxurious holidays and daily shopping sprees - all paid for by boyfriend Piers - and not doing anything to make her Coco dreams happen.
When the recession hits, it's not just the economy that takes a tumble and Arielle finds herself living back with her parents, on bad terms with Piers, and having a CV that's as welcome as a pair of knock-off Jimmy Choos. And maybe it's the location, but she's also finding unwelcome thoughts of her childhood sweetheart are popping into her head...
What's a girl to do? Can Arielle figure out what it is she now wants to do with her life and move on, or will she be doomed to spend the rest of her life dwelling over her worst mistakes, stuck listening to her parents' embarrassing dinner table talk each night?
296 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2013
184 people are currently reading
1241 people want to read
About the author
Elle Field
5 books267 followersElle Field writes new adult romantic comedies, and is the author of the Arielle Lockley series and Geli Voyante's Hot or Not. She grew up in Yorkshire, then moved to Scotland to study International Relations and Social Anthropology at the University of St Andrews.
Elle now lives in London with her boyfriend and their cat. She's a massive fan of sunshine, giraffes, The Killers, Audrey Hepburn movies, playing Scrabble, musicals and tea. Oh, and reading, of course!
Elle now lives in London with her boyfriend and their cat. She's a massive fan of sunshine, giraffes, The Killers, Audrey Hepburn movies, playing Scrabble, musicals and tea. Oh, and reading, of course!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
June 26, 2013
I received a copy of Kept by Elle Field in exchange for an honest review.
This might be a bit of a strange review, because I was kind of all over the place with this book. There were moments I loved, parts I disliked, areas where I was scratching my head, and then scenarios that made me laugh out loud. The bottom line – I enjoyed this book. Arielle was a funny character, someone who I thought of as unique and spirited. It was a little hard to really stand behind her when she did nothing but seemingly mooch off her boyfriend for four years, but I could see how Piers wasn’t doing much to help that situation. Sometimes the romance between her childhood sweetheart tripped me up. I don’t like to give anything away in my reviews, but the ending was where I was scratching my head. Sometimes I disliked too that everything was quite easy for her. I know we see her penniless and homeless for a few pages, but really, she was quite fine throughout the book. And even in the end when she wanted to do something on her own, an opportunity just fell into her lap. I liked that she ran with the opportunity and really worked hard at it, but still – she didn’t have to do much to make it happen in the first place. With that being said, like I stated earlier, I enjoyed this book. I was sucked into Arielle’s strange little world and I thought the writing was quite snappy and fast-paced. So even though I think I had a love/confusion relationship with Arielle, she still thoroughly entertained me.
This might be a bit of a strange review, because I was kind of all over the place with this book. There were moments I loved, parts I disliked, areas where I was scratching my head, and then scenarios that made me laugh out loud. The bottom line – I enjoyed this book. Arielle was a funny character, someone who I thought of as unique and spirited. It was a little hard to really stand behind her when she did nothing but seemingly mooch off her boyfriend for four years, but I could see how Piers wasn’t doing much to help that situation. Sometimes the romance between her childhood sweetheart tripped me up. I don’t like to give anything away in my reviews, but the ending was where I was scratching my head. Sometimes I disliked too that everything was quite easy for her. I know we see her penniless and homeless for a few pages, but really, she was quite fine throughout the book. And even in the end when she wanted to do something on her own, an opportunity just fell into her lap. I liked that she ran with the opportunity and really worked hard at it, but still – she didn’t have to do much to make it happen in the first place. With that being said, like I stated earlier, I enjoyed this book. I was sucked into Arielle’s strange little world and I thought the writing was quite snappy and fast-paced. So even though I think I had a love/confusion relationship with Arielle, she still thoroughly entertained me.
April 28, 2013
A brilliant debut novel! Funny and well written, with a plot and characters that draw you in and pique your curiosity.
Elle, I loved 'Kept' from the first page. Arielle is a brilliant protagonist and I couldn't wait to find out more about her and the mysterious 'him' and his effect on her life. I was waiting for her chance to show everyone what she was made of and gave a little cheer when she did. Plenty of 'what's going to happen next' moments meaning I couldn't read the pages quickly enough to find out what was going to happen!
Very much looking forward to your next novel in the Autumn. Well done Elle!
Elle, I loved 'Kept' from the first page. Arielle is a brilliant protagonist and I couldn't wait to find out more about her and the mysterious 'him' and his effect on her life. I was waiting for her chance to show everyone what she was made of and gave a little cheer when she did. Plenty of 'what's going to happen next' moments meaning I couldn't read the pages quickly enough to find out what was going to happen!
Very much looking forward to your next novel in the Autumn. Well done Elle!
December 15, 2014
Fashionista Arielle Lockley has lost her way. Aged 25, she’s just been thrown out of her very rich boyfriend Piers’ house with only a small bag of possessions, no money and no career history. And she has to return to the family home, which holds bad memories for her, as a very ashamed “kept” woman.
Things go from bad to worse but after sulking and licking her wounds, Arielle realises she has to make amends for her lost years. But what can she do with a degree in economics and no experience? And has she thrown away true love by taking advantage of handsome, loving Piers? Surely not, when she’s still in love with her teenage crush. Amidst the confusion and many wrong turns, Arielle starts to finally take responsibility.
I really enjoyed reading Kept but there were a few things that confused me. I couldn’t entirely love kind, generous Piers, who seemed to bully Arielle into letting him look after her for four years and then kicked her out and called her lazy once she’d given up trying to fight him. Also, I couldn’t get Piers Morgan out of my head so, for me, he wasn’t quite the swoonworthy hero I think the author had in mind. However, it was an interesting and witty look at what can happen to a woman who lets her past control her. Arielle’s journey was wonderful and I would have loved to have read more about her introduction into the fashion world.
review by Nikki Mason on behalf of Bestchicklit.com
Things go from bad to worse but after sulking and licking her wounds, Arielle realises she has to make amends for her lost years. But what can she do with a degree in economics and no experience? And has she thrown away true love by taking advantage of handsome, loving Piers? Surely not, when she’s still in love with her teenage crush. Amidst the confusion and many wrong turns, Arielle starts to finally take responsibility.
I really enjoyed reading Kept but there were a few things that confused me. I couldn’t entirely love kind, generous Piers, who seemed to bully Arielle into letting him look after her for four years and then kicked her out and called her lazy once she’d given up trying to fight him. Also, I couldn’t get Piers Morgan out of my head so, for me, he wasn’t quite the swoonworthy hero I think the author had in mind. However, it was an interesting and witty look at what can happen to a woman who lets her past control her. Arielle’s journey was wonderful and I would have loved to have read more about her introduction into the fashion world.
review by Nikki Mason on behalf of Bestchicklit.com
June 22, 2015
Really, really didn't like the main character. She was whiny, shallow, and self-centered, yet everything always seemed to fall into place around her. Piers' motives were never explained, unless he was truly a glutton for punishment. It drove me crazy how Arielle called her mother and father the 'rents every two seconds. She seemed to be permanently stuck at the emotional development of a 16 year old (although this makes sense with the plot) and still had men fawning over her at every turn. Ugh.
This book is what I thought being 25 would be like, way before I actually turned 25.
This book is what I thought being 25 would be like, way before I actually turned 25.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2017
I had to DNF this at something like 19%. I could not get beyond the constant display of completely shallow and ridiculous behaviors and thoughts of the main character. She went on for how many pages about her (now) ex's choice of clothing and how it was such a contrast to his decorated home. It was awful. The main character was awful and deserved whatever ridiculousness happened to her. However, I am not wasting my time to read it.
July 29, 2013
elle kindly sent me this book for an honest review well she definitely got 5+ stars from me. as soon as I started the book on the first page I was hooked and the characters were brilliant. one of the best books by far. you did well Elle can't wait for the next book :-) perfect ending!
April 28, 2013
Absolutely brilliant! A light, funny, down to earth, refreshing read. Cannot wait until the next installment! :-)
June 18, 2013
4.5 stars
I’d like to thank Elle Field for sending me a copy Of Kept in return for an honest review.
Kept is the debut novel for Elle Field and I have to say, I was completely entranced by her book. Albeit, it took me a while to get into it, but when I did, I couldn’t put it down. I loved how Elle set the events of the story, letting us know what was happening before going back to explain how Arielle come to be in the position is in currently in.
I haven’t really read a romance book in a while; New Adult has taken over my life, so it was refreshing to read Kept, read the romance entwined within the book, instead of feeling my panicky self with all the angst that is wrapped up within NA. It was a breath of fresh air and I thoroughly enjoyed every second of Kept.
Ms Field has a way to keep you captivated, wanting to know more about Arielle’s life, wanting to know who she picks, how her life ended up that way and what she is going to do about it. You feel like you go on a journey with Arielle too, by the way she has so much drama and so much pain that she still has harboured inside from her younger years. She’s lost, she had dreams but she never pursued them. It’s a great chick-lit to read, you will laugh, tear up, root for Arielle, ponder over which guy she should be with all the while taking each step with her along the way.
We first see Arielle on the train. She has no money, no train ticket and just a weekend bag. She’s been kicked out of her house by her boyfriend Piers. She then takes us back to the beginning, how she met Piers, how they came to be, what shes been doing the past four years right up to that very moment on the train.
Throughout the book, you see the past and present of Arielle. How to came to where she is now, how it shaped her into someone she didn’t want to be. She had dreams, which took a backburner. She changed but now it’s all about getting her dreams back, she just needs to figure out what she wants to do, and how to go about it.
Piers, her boyfriend, dotted on Arielle but after a bad day, he loses it and kicks her ‘lazy’ ass out. The only place she has to go is her parents house and she doesn’t even want to step foot back in New Forest, it holds too many memories.
But after some guidance, from Piers, her parents and a special fairy godmother, she is trying to get her life back on track, trying to show everyone and herself she can pursue her dreams and make them a reality. Baring in mind she hits some bumps along the way, bumps from her past and it makes her head all fuzzy but in her heart, she knows the right guy is waiting for her, she just needs to sort herself out first.
So what does Arielle do? You’ll have to find out yourself.
I really loved the character of Arielle. Albeit she is a pain in the ass at the start and she is spoilt when you are taken back into the past four years of her relationship with Piers. She see that although she started off strong and spunky and independent when she first met Piers, over time she became a former figure of herself, spending Piers money, buying expensive clothes and holiday and not even bothering to thank him. This is the tipping point for Piers after a stressful day and he kicks her out. You see her vulnerable side break through, with no money, nowhere to really go and with no jobs under her belt, shes lost.
BUT over time, she begins to think about her future, having to work through her past and present, with some advice from her best friend Ob. She has to fight her past, working through her demons from her old teenager boyfriend Noah, who broke her heart. She goes on a journey, transforming herself into someone that everyone can be proud of. She overcomes her past, figures out her present and how to stand on her own two feet without anyone’s help and it made me so proud of her to do this, without anyone’s contributions. In the end she turns back into the independent woman that everyone knew she was, she just lost her way.
What can I say about Piers? I realllllly liked him. He is a gentleman, makes a lot of money and truly loved and cared for Arielle. How they met will have you giggling and what he says to her will make your heart melt. She really is everything to him and he just wants to care for her. BUT, and this is a big BUT, he is one of the reasons that Arielle has never worked during those four years. Because he tells her he will provide for her.
I’m kind of conflicted over him when he kicked her out, because it was his idea for her not to work (If I was told not to work, I would FIND work and not spend his money) and then he calls her selfish and lazy for not having a job. Bit hypercritical don’t you think? But then I can see his point of view, as she became selfish and ungrateful by his generosity. I don’t blame him for needing some time apart from Arielle. She wasn’t the girl he fell in love with.
Despite all this, he still loved her and wanted her back. The time did all the difference to him and to Arielle and he was always there to support her from afar. I think this is why I was rooting for him till the very end.
The supporting characters are brilliant. I completely loved Ob and I do hope that he will have his own book. I’d love for him to find love, seeing as he is married to his job. He made me laugh, he gave some good advice and you can always find him down the pub ;) Even though he and Arielle haven’t talked for years, it was like they were never apart and that is why I love friendships like this. Arielle and Ob definitely are the best friends despite years apart.
I think my favourite scene is when Arielle is redesigning the shop. That is all I’m going to say but she proves her worth, proves she can do it and proves that with a bit of spunk you can achieve anything you put your mind to. This is one of the reasons I was so proud of her. She took something that was empty and transformed it into something that was popular around New Forest. It was something she loved and was good at. She found her worth.
Kept is a great chick-lit novel. You will be laughing, swooning, rooting for Arielle and end up so proud of her. It was refreshing to read something other than NA and if you need a book to get over the angst, then Kept is definitely the book for you. It has everything to keep you entertained and hooked and Elle Field, I will definitely be checking out more of your books when they are written!
I’d like to thank Elle Field for sending me a copy Of Kept in return for an honest review.
Kept is the debut novel for Elle Field and I have to say, I was completely entranced by her book. Albeit, it took me a while to get into it, but when I did, I couldn’t put it down. I loved how Elle set the events of the story, letting us know what was happening before going back to explain how Arielle come to be in the position is in currently in.
I haven’t really read a romance book in a while; New Adult has taken over my life, so it was refreshing to read Kept, read the romance entwined within the book, instead of feeling my panicky self with all the angst that is wrapped up within NA. It was a breath of fresh air and I thoroughly enjoyed every second of Kept.
Ms Field has a way to keep you captivated, wanting to know more about Arielle’s life, wanting to know who she picks, how her life ended up that way and what she is going to do about it. You feel like you go on a journey with Arielle too, by the way she has so much drama and so much pain that she still has harboured inside from her younger years. She’s lost, she had dreams but she never pursued them. It’s a great chick-lit to read, you will laugh, tear up, root for Arielle, ponder over which guy she should be with all the while taking each step with her along the way.
We first see Arielle on the train. She has no money, no train ticket and just a weekend bag. She’s been kicked out of her house by her boyfriend Piers. She then takes us back to the beginning, how she met Piers, how they came to be, what shes been doing the past four years right up to that very moment on the train.
Throughout the book, you see the past and present of Arielle. How to came to where she is now, how it shaped her into someone she didn’t want to be. She had dreams, which took a backburner. She changed but now it’s all about getting her dreams back, she just needs to figure out what she wants to do, and how to go about it.
Piers, her boyfriend, dotted on Arielle but after a bad day, he loses it and kicks her ‘lazy’ ass out. The only place she has to go is her parents house and she doesn’t even want to step foot back in New Forest, it holds too many memories.
But after some guidance, from Piers, her parents and a special fairy godmother, she is trying to get her life back on track, trying to show everyone and herself she can pursue her dreams and make them a reality. Baring in mind she hits some bumps along the way, bumps from her past and it makes her head all fuzzy but in her heart, she knows the right guy is waiting for her, she just needs to sort herself out first.
So what does Arielle do? You’ll have to find out yourself.
I really loved the character of Arielle. Albeit she is a pain in the ass at the start and she is spoilt when you are taken back into the past four years of her relationship with Piers. She see that although she started off strong and spunky and independent when she first met Piers, over time she became a former figure of herself, spending Piers money, buying expensive clothes and holiday and not even bothering to thank him. This is the tipping point for Piers after a stressful day and he kicks her out. You see her vulnerable side break through, with no money, nowhere to really go and with no jobs under her belt, shes lost.
BUT over time, she begins to think about her future, having to work through her past and present, with some advice from her best friend Ob. She has to fight her past, working through her demons from her old teenager boyfriend Noah, who broke her heart. She goes on a journey, transforming herself into someone that everyone can be proud of. She overcomes her past, figures out her present and how to stand on her own two feet without anyone’s help and it made me so proud of her to do this, without anyone’s contributions. In the end she turns back into the independent woman that everyone knew she was, she just lost her way.
What can I say about Piers? I realllllly liked him. He is a gentleman, makes a lot of money and truly loved and cared for Arielle. How they met will have you giggling and what he says to her will make your heart melt. She really is everything to him and he just wants to care for her. BUT, and this is a big BUT, he is one of the reasons that Arielle has never worked during those four years. Because he tells her he will provide for her.
I’m kind of conflicted over him when he kicked her out, because it was his idea for her not to work (If I was told not to work, I would FIND work and not spend his money) and then he calls her selfish and lazy for not having a job. Bit hypercritical don’t you think? But then I can see his point of view, as she became selfish and ungrateful by his generosity. I don’t blame him for needing some time apart from Arielle. She wasn’t the girl he fell in love with.
Despite all this, he still loved her and wanted her back. The time did all the difference to him and to Arielle and he was always there to support her from afar. I think this is why I was rooting for him till the very end.
The supporting characters are brilliant. I completely loved Ob and I do hope that he will have his own book. I’d love for him to find love, seeing as he is married to his job. He made me laugh, he gave some good advice and you can always find him down the pub ;) Even though he and Arielle haven’t talked for years, it was like they were never apart and that is why I love friendships like this. Arielle and Ob definitely are the best friends despite years apart.
I think my favourite scene is when Arielle is redesigning the shop. That is all I’m going to say but she proves her worth, proves she can do it and proves that with a bit of spunk you can achieve anything you put your mind to. This is one of the reasons I was so proud of her. She took something that was empty and transformed it into something that was popular around New Forest. It was something she loved and was good at. She found her worth.
Kept is a great chick-lit novel. You will be laughing, swooning, rooting for Arielle and end up so proud of her. It was refreshing to read something other than NA and if you need a book to get over the angst, then Kept is definitely the book for you. It has everything to keep you entertained and hooked and Elle Field, I will definitely be checking out more of your books when they are written!
November 15, 2018
Blech. This was awful! At least I can say the last book I read, which was literally about a teenager, was immature, but this was supposed to be about a grown woman, who acts like a teenager. It's like she honestly stopped maturing at the age of 16 because some boy dumped her. And she's not even a nice person. She's spoiled, selfish, and just awful. I have no idea how she has any friends at all, let alone it seems every man she comes in contact with falls head over heels in love with her apparently. I half expected her best friend to announce his undying love for her (despite the fact that he's so obviously hiding his homosexuality). This book is like the poor man's version of Shopaholic, but with a horrific wretched main character. The more I kept reading, the more ridiculous it got, until the very end.
April 8, 2015
"Kept" is the first book in the Arielle Lockley series, which consists of three novels. I am a little torn about how I should rate this book to be honest. On one hand it was told in a perfect, light, funny and engaging way, on the other hand, I had some big issues with the heroine, who seemed too shallow, too lazy, and without a backbone for my liking. There were moments in the book that the story flew smoothly and seamlessly, and then a moment or two later I was frowning and shaking my head with disbelief.
Arielle is 25 and we get to know her on her way with a tail between her legs to her parents. She's lost everything: her boyfriend, her flat, and - the most important! - all her designer clothes!
What happened? Well, after 4 years of a relationship, her boyfriend Piers has just gone and kicked her out onto the street! How is it possible when their lives were so perfect? Piers was so adoring, paid for everything for her, clothes, exotic journeys, posh restaurants, and he never expected Arielle to go to work. Did Arielle fell over herself with this life? was her greatest ambition to be a "kept" woman really? What about her dreams of becoming of fashion designer...? What is she going to do with her never wanted degree in economics and no experience?
I think it is too easy to judge Arielle as the "kept" woman, because while she did nothing to change this situation, her boyfriend Piers didn't do much to change it also. It took me totally by surprise when he so suddenly decided he doesn't want to continue this relationship and throw Arielle out of the door in this very abrupt, unceremonious way. Don't get me wrong, Arielle was in this book also not my favourite character, she did in fact nothing except shopping with Piers' credit card, and putting all her dreams on hold and doing nothing to follow them, because it was so easy and comfortable to lead the life how it was offered to her, but I couldn't understand Piers' sudden outburst. He should have spoken with Arielle first, which he didn't do.
Everything seemed so easy come, easy go to Arielle. She was the champion of belittling things, shrugging her shoulders and still the things would just fell into her lap, no matter if she needed a roof over her head, a friend to talk to, money or even a business opportunity. OK, she was brave enough to grab the chance but still, there was a situation when her mum just took a telephone and called on behalf of her daughter. Hello?
Piers was a character that confused me a lot. He seemed lovely and nice, but on the other hand he had moments when I was literally waiting for him to hit Arielle or something like this, as he was so aggressive and cold towards her. He didn't want Arielle to work, he repeated that he's happy with their relationship being as it is, and then, after four years, he just kicked her out, calling her lazy. And then deciding that oh well, he still loved her and expecting her to come back immediately.
I don't know if Elle has a soft spot for fairytale names, because apart of Arielle we have her best friend Obelix, and I couldn't warm to this name at all. I don't know why, I just couldn't , I guess there is only one Obelix and it's for sure not Arielle's friend.
Arielle's behaviour is like a rollercoaster ride. There are moments that she acts like the adult that she is, but there are moments that I really couldn't keep up with her and understand her. She's convinced that she's oh so much in love in Piers and is happy that he's willing to give her a second chance, and in the next second she lets her childhood love to tempt her again. Why? As it came totally out of the blue it was a little confusing for me.
But altogether, this book made a very enjoyable, light read. It's really well written and it's fast - paced, and even if I didn't agree with Arielle and her decisions, I very gladly followed her on her journey and was a witness to her actions in her, a little crazy, world. It was funny and well, while I really couldn't have Arielle as my friend, because she irritated me mostly, in some ways I liked her and felt hooked by her and her story. I am truly torn by this novel, as it has one of the most controversial heroines, but the author has so much made up for this with her brilliant story telling and fresh, warm writing style.
And well, me being me I can't not mention the brilliant, funny cover that suits the story completely!
Copy received from the author in exchange for a review.
Arielle is 25 and we get to know her on her way with a tail between her legs to her parents. She's lost everything: her boyfriend, her flat, and - the most important! - all her designer clothes!
What happened? Well, after 4 years of a relationship, her boyfriend Piers has just gone and kicked her out onto the street! How is it possible when their lives were so perfect? Piers was so adoring, paid for everything for her, clothes, exotic journeys, posh restaurants, and he never expected Arielle to go to work. Did Arielle fell over herself with this life? was her greatest ambition to be a "kept" woman really? What about her dreams of becoming of fashion designer...? What is she going to do with her never wanted degree in economics and no experience?
I think it is too easy to judge Arielle as the "kept" woman, because while she did nothing to change this situation, her boyfriend Piers didn't do much to change it also. It took me totally by surprise when he so suddenly decided he doesn't want to continue this relationship and throw Arielle out of the door in this very abrupt, unceremonious way. Don't get me wrong, Arielle was in this book also not my favourite character, she did in fact nothing except shopping with Piers' credit card, and putting all her dreams on hold and doing nothing to follow them, because it was so easy and comfortable to lead the life how it was offered to her, but I couldn't understand Piers' sudden outburst. He should have spoken with Arielle first, which he didn't do.
Everything seemed so easy come, easy go to Arielle. She was the champion of belittling things, shrugging her shoulders and still the things would just fell into her lap, no matter if she needed a roof over her head, a friend to talk to, money or even a business opportunity. OK, she was brave enough to grab the chance but still, there was a situation when her mum just took a telephone and called on behalf of her daughter. Hello?
Piers was a character that confused me a lot. He seemed lovely and nice, but on the other hand he had moments when I was literally waiting for him to hit Arielle or something like this, as he was so aggressive and cold towards her. He didn't want Arielle to work, he repeated that he's happy with their relationship being as it is, and then, after four years, he just kicked her out, calling her lazy. And then deciding that oh well, he still loved her and expecting her to come back immediately.
I don't know if Elle has a soft spot for fairytale names, because apart of Arielle we have her best friend Obelix, and I couldn't warm to this name at all. I don't know why, I just couldn't , I guess there is only one Obelix and it's for sure not Arielle's friend.
Arielle's behaviour is like a rollercoaster ride. There are moments that she acts like the adult that she is, but there are moments that I really couldn't keep up with her and understand her. She's convinced that she's oh so much in love in Piers and is happy that he's willing to give her a second chance, and in the next second she lets her childhood love to tempt her again. Why? As it came totally out of the blue it was a little confusing for me.
But altogether, this book made a very enjoyable, light read. It's really well written and it's fast - paced, and even if I didn't agree with Arielle and her decisions, I very gladly followed her on her journey and was a witness to her actions in her, a little crazy, world. It was funny and well, while I really couldn't have Arielle as my friend, because she irritated me mostly, in some ways I liked her and felt hooked by her and her story. I am truly torn by this novel, as it has one of the most controversial heroines, but the author has so much made up for this with her brilliant story telling and fresh, warm writing style.
And well, me being me I can't not mention the brilliant, funny cover that suits the story completely!
Copy received from the author in exchange for a review.
March 25, 2017
I found the beginning of this book almost intolerable. If you do too, just keep reading. I promise it's worth it.
March 28, 2015
This is Elle's debut novel and first in the Arielle Lockley series, the second book in the series being due for release shortly.
Arielle Lockley is a privileged women. Raised by loving parents, well-educated and living a life of luxury as the pampered girlfriend of a rich man. However, there is a little voice in the back of her mind pointing out that she gave up her dreams and ambitions and has now reached her mid-20's without ever having worked a day in her life. When she suddenly finds herself friendless, jobless and living back with her parents, the has to find a way to stand on her own two feet.
Initially, I struggled to warm to Arielle, seeing her only as an entitled and spoilt young woman who demonstrated an appalling lack of respect for her partner, parents and even strangers. However, as the book goes on, you see Arielle's views changing and I quickly started to warm to her as she turns into a quick-witted, hard-working and independent character.
We don't really discover much about the supporting characters, other than from a superficial standpoint, as this is Arielle's story. We have her supportive childhood friend, Obelix; her rich 'boyfriend', Piers; her childhood sweetheart, Noah; her disappointed parents and the quirky Felicity.
I struggled slightly with the relationship between Arielle and Piers. Their initial meeting was accidental and he then persuades Arielle to live with him and forsake a career in order to look after him and be available as a trophy wife. One day, he suddenly turns on Arielle and appears to blame her for her failure to work and to contribute financially to the relationship, a situation which appears to be of his own making.
When we meet Noah, her childhood sweetheart, it is not immediately apparent whether he is destined to be her knight in shining armour or whether he is going to be trouble.
Arielle is torn between the two men. Noah was her first love and gave her that first important glimpse of excitement and romance. Does her relationship with Piers live up to those lofty standards? Can she love two different men at once?
As the story headed quickly towards the final page, I found myself feeling almost proud of Arielle for her hard work and focus in trying to get her life back on track.
This was an enjoyable read, full of drama, laughs and warmth - a tale of friendship, family and love. I loved hearing Arielle's thoughts and her inner monologue, giving an insight into why she keeps acting like she does. I found myself giggling out loud in several places.
All in all, this was a great chick-lit novel and a fantastic debut from Elle Field. I'm very much looking forward to reading more about the irrepressible Arielle Lockley!
Arielle Lockley is a privileged women. Raised by loving parents, well-educated and living a life of luxury as the pampered girlfriend of a rich man. However, there is a little voice in the back of her mind pointing out that she gave up her dreams and ambitions and has now reached her mid-20's without ever having worked a day in her life. When she suddenly finds herself friendless, jobless and living back with her parents, the has to find a way to stand on her own two feet.
Initially, I struggled to warm to Arielle, seeing her only as an entitled and spoilt young woman who demonstrated an appalling lack of respect for her partner, parents and even strangers. However, as the book goes on, you see Arielle's views changing and I quickly started to warm to her as she turns into a quick-witted, hard-working and independent character.
We don't really discover much about the supporting characters, other than from a superficial standpoint, as this is Arielle's story. We have her supportive childhood friend, Obelix; her rich 'boyfriend', Piers; her childhood sweetheart, Noah; her disappointed parents and the quirky Felicity.
I struggled slightly with the relationship between Arielle and Piers. Their initial meeting was accidental and he then persuades Arielle to live with him and forsake a career in order to look after him and be available as a trophy wife. One day, he suddenly turns on Arielle and appears to blame her for her failure to work and to contribute financially to the relationship, a situation which appears to be of his own making.
When we meet Noah, her childhood sweetheart, it is not immediately apparent whether he is destined to be her knight in shining armour or whether he is going to be trouble.
Arielle is torn between the two men. Noah was her first love and gave her that first important glimpse of excitement and romance. Does her relationship with Piers live up to those lofty standards? Can she love two different men at once?
As the story headed quickly towards the final page, I found myself feeling almost proud of Arielle for her hard work and focus in trying to get her life back on track.
This was an enjoyable read, full of drama, laughs and warmth - a tale of friendship, family and love. I loved hearing Arielle's thoughts and her inner monologue, giving an insight into why she keeps acting like she does. I found myself giggling out loud in several places.
All in all, this was a great chick-lit novel and a fantastic debut from Elle Field. I'm very much looking forward to reading more about the irrepressible Arielle Lockley!
June 1, 2013
I was lucky enough to be sent a copy of this book for review by its lovely author. This is Elle Field's first novel and what a debut it is! I'm a massive fan of books that get straight into the action and then explain how it all came about over the course of the book. The concept of this story is great. Arielle suddenly finds herself on her way back to her parents, rejected and penniless, how did she come to be in this state, well that is what we find out. Nothing is a straightforward as it seems in this fast-paced savvy story. I was kept guessing the whole way through, having no idea how things were going to turn out-fabulous!
Now I have to admit, I absolutely hated Arielle. I thought she was really spoilt and really didn't like the way she was living her lives. She seemed to have no respect for those around her and just threw their love for her back into their faces. Thankfully, she does see the light and manages to turn her life around. By the end of the novel she is a strong independent woman who is able to stand on her own two feet and is willing to help others out along the way, just the kind of heroine I like to read about!
The supporting characters in this novel really are larger than life. Her mum and dad are typical parents who are just a little on the judgemental side and really care about what the neighbours think. Her pal Ob is a typical lads lad, sex-mad and seemingly always meeting her for a pint. The two male 'leads' in the novel are also exaggerated characters with money to burn, slightly philandering and not really sure who they are without a girl in tow! Friend Lydia seems to have no feelings apart from the money, but, like Arielle, she comes through in the end and really helps her friend out.
This novel is set between London, Hampshire and Bournemouth. The settings are described really well and you can always picture Arielle flitting around Sloane square or trolling the boutiques in Bournemouth, something which I really like to be able to do as a reader. There are some really funny moments in the novel and just the right amount of sex to be realistic and believable. I thought this was a wonderful debut and slots nicely into the chick-lit genre. I couldn't actually believe that this wasn't written by one of the chick-lit queens, the storyline and the writing itself being the perfect combination of witty one-liners, twists and turns and self-discovery!
Now I have to admit, I absolutely hated Arielle. I thought she was really spoilt and really didn't like the way she was living her lives. She seemed to have no respect for those around her and just threw their love for her back into their faces. Thankfully, she does see the light and manages to turn her life around. By the end of the novel she is a strong independent woman who is able to stand on her own two feet and is willing to help others out along the way, just the kind of heroine I like to read about!
The supporting characters in this novel really are larger than life. Her mum and dad are typical parents who are just a little on the judgemental side and really care about what the neighbours think. Her pal Ob is a typical lads lad, sex-mad and seemingly always meeting her for a pint. The two male 'leads' in the novel are also exaggerated characters with money to burn, slightly philandering and not really sure who they are without a girl in tow! Friend Lydia seems to have no feelings apart from the money, but, like Arielle, she comes through in the end and really helps her friend out.
This novel is set between London, Hampshire and Bournemouth. The settings are described really well and you can always picture Arielle flitting around Sloane square or trolling the boutiques in Bournemouth, something which I really like to be able to do as a reader. There are some really funny moments in the novel and just the right amount of sex to be realistic and believable. I thought this was a wonderful debut and slots nicely into the chick-lit genre. I couldn't actually believe that this wasn't written by one of the chick-lit queens, the storyline and the writing itself being the perfect combination of witty one-liners, twists and turns and self-discovery!
April 11, 2014
Review first posted on my blog: http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...
To the outside world, Arielle Lockley appears to lead a glamorous and comfortable life; an adoring banker boyfriend named Piers who pays everything for her, the most stylish designer outfits, numerous trips to the most luxurious locations, and she doesn’t even need to work. Yet, Arielle never expected she’d end up a kept woman, forgetting her dreams of becoming a fashion designer. When Piers unexpectedly kicks her out after an argument, Arielle is forced to go back to her parents and think about her life. This is her chance to no longer be a kept woman, but fight for her own dreams... But is it too late? And can Arielle really forget Piers?
Elle Field’s debut novel is a really enjoyable read with a fascinating heroine at its centre. Arielle is incredibly spoiled and self-centred, which didn’t make me warm to her at the start of the novel. However, as a reader we are taken on a journey to experience how Arielle’s character changes and is forced to make some important decisions in her life. I think most of us will be able to relate to Arielle in a way, and I really enjoyed seeing how she dealt with everything in her life. We are introduced to Arielle’s life by a switch between the present time and a collection of flashbacks (some elements from her past even come back as the story progresses), which gives the reader the chance to understand why Arielle has made certain decisions and how she has found herself in this position. Elle Field managed to make me root for Arielle and I ended up loving her!
The book has a lovely collection of supporting characters: I personally developed a small crush on Piers, Arielle’s banker boyfriend, who is a real gentleman, and Arielle’s best friend Obelix managed to make me laugh out loud multiple times (I’m just not too sure about the name, I constantly saw Obelix in my head, blue-and-white striped trousers and two braids and all!). The story is well-written and develops in a good pace; it made me want to keep on reading to find out what would eventually happen to Arielle and where she would end up. Overall, ‘Kept’ is an enjoyable and fast-paced chick lit read, and I look forward to reading more of Elle’s work in the future!
To the outside world, Arielle Lockley appears to lead a glamorous and comfortable life; an adoring banker boyfriend named Piers who pays everything for her, the most stylish designer outfits, numerous trips to the most luxurious locations, and she doesn’t even need to work. Yet, Arielle never expected she’d end up a kept woman, forgetting her dreams of becoming a fashion designer. When Piers unexpectedly kicks her out after an argument, Arielle is forced to go back to her parents and think about her life. This is her chance to no longer be a kept woman, but fight for her own dreams... But is it too late? And can Arielle really forget Piers?
Elle Field’s debut novel is a really enjoyable read with a fascinating heroine at its centre. Arielle is incredibly spoiled and self-centred, which didn’t make me warm to her at the start of the novel. However, as a reader we are taken on a journey to experience how Arielle’s character changes and is forced to make some important decisions in her life. I think most of us will be able to relate to Arielle in a way, and I really enjoyed seeing how she dealt with everything in her life. We are introduced to Arielle’s life by a switch between the present time and a collection of flashbacks (some elements from her past even come back as the story progresses), which gives the reader the chance to understand why Arielle has made certain decisions and how she has found herself in this position. Elle Field managed to make me root for Arielle and I ended up loving her!
The book has a lovely collection of supporting characters: I personally developed a small crush on Piers, Arielle’s banker boyfriend, who is a real gentleman, and Arielle’s best friend Obelix managed to make me laugh out loud multiple times (I’m just not too sure about the name, I constantly saw Obelix in my head, blue-and-white striped trousers and two braids and all!). The story is well-written and develops in a good pace; it made me want to keep on reading to find out what would eventually happen to Arielle and where she would end up. Overall, ‘Kept’ is an enjoyable and fast-paced chick lit read, and I look forward to reading more of Elle’s work in the future!
March 11, 2015
*Book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
The story follows Arielle Lockley, a fashionable girl, who likes to party and have fun. Her rich boyfriend Piers gives her everything she wants, but then poof he wants her gone!
She’s back with her parents and is struggling to find a job and do something with her life. I have to say, I had some difficulties relating to her. Everything seemed so easy for her and her behaviour just didn’t make sense to me. On the other hand I really enjoyed reading about her life, her men and everything else, it was definitely very entertaining and included a lot of drama, excitement, spark and misunderstandings.
When her childhood sweetheart suddenly stands in front of her again, she is really tempted and the story gets very interesting. Again, I didn’t like some of her actions and I got confused with her thoughts and feelings.
One other thing I was struggling with was the flow of the storyline, everything happened so fast and as soon as they fought, everything was okay again. I felt that there were some details missing and that the story wasn’t complete, which was a bit of a pity, because I think that the message behind this story is incredible.
It’s the journey of a woman, learning that not everything falls into your lap in life. One has to be honest, work hard and be willing to fight and take risks. Arielle also had to figure out what she really wants in life. The closer we got to the end of the book, the more I liked her, because she finally realised what was important to her.
In my opinion, the romance between her and Piers and also her feelings for her childhood were not well lined out. One second she was in love with Piers, the other minute she was thinking about her first love – confusing and irritating.
Nevertheless, I still enjoyed the book very much, there are so many laugh out loud moments in it and Elle’s writing is young, fresh and bubbly :)
The supporting characters were great, especially Ob, I think he added an extra spark to it and I really liked how their friendship was portrayed.
The settings and the surroundings were described in a vivid and exciting way. Kept is a bubbly and very entertaining chicklit novel, I can’t wait to see what Elle has come up with next!
The story follows Arielle Lockley, a fashionable girl, who likes to party and have fun. Her rich boyfriend Piers gives her everything she wants, but then poof he wants her gone!
She’s back with her parents and is struggling to find a job and do something with her life. I have to say, I had some difficulties relating to her. Everything seemed so easy for her and her behaviour just didn’t make sense to me. On the other hand I really enjoyed reading about her life, her men and everything else, it was definitely very entertaining and included a lot of drama, excitement, spark and misunderstandings.
When her childhood sweetheart suddenly stands in front of her again, she is really tempted and the story gets very interesting. Again, I didn’t like some of her actions and I got confused with her thoughts and feelings.
One other thing I was struggling with was the flow of the storyline, everything happened so fast and as soon as they fought, everything was okay again. I felt that there were some details missing and that the story wasn’t complete, which was a bit of a pity, because I think that the message behind this story is incredible.
It’s the journey of a woman, learning that not everything falls into your lap in life. One has to be honest, work hard and be willing to fight and take risks. Arielle also had to figure out what she really wants in life. The closer we got to the end of the book, the more I liked her, because she finally realised what was important to her.
In my opinion, the romance between her and Piers and also her feelings for her childhood were not well lined out. One second she was in love with Piers, the other minute she was thinking about her first love – confusing and irritating.
Nevertheless, I still enjoyed the book very much, there are so many laugh out loud moments in it and Elle’s writing is young, fresh and bubbly :)
The supporting characters were great, especially Ob, I think he added an extra spark to it and I really liked how their friendship was portrayed.
The settings and the surroundings were described in a vivid and exciting way. Kept is a bubbly and very entertaining chicklit novel, I can’t wait to see what Elle has come up with next!
March 10, 2017
Fascinating story
This is a love story that it's so spontaneous that you keep reading to know what will happen next. It's a lovely story about growing up too.
This is a love story that it's so spontaneous that you keep reading to know what will happen next. It's a lovely story about growing up too.
May 9, 2013
I should start by saying that I'm not usually a fan of 'chick-lit'. I'm more of a fantasy, mystery, historical or paranormal kind of gal. But, and there's a but coming... I really enjoyed Kept.
After a series of unfortunate and hilarious events Arielle ends up living with and being taken care of by the hot, rich banker, Piers. The story begins fours years after Arielle and Piers meet, and is told in a mixture of flashbacks and current narrative. Instead of working in fashion and following her dreams, as the title suggests, Arielle has spent years living as a kept woman. I'll leave you to discover the rest of the plot because it's both heartwarming and really funny.
Arielle's inner dialogue was really funny, right up there with Bridget Jones. Although I must say as a complete fashion no-go a lot of the designer brands and names she mentions were completely lost on me and at times I think I may have missed the in jokes.
Arielle is ruled by her past and lets previous heartbreak control her actions (or lack thereof). I felt for Arielle because we've all had our confidence knocked and made regrettable choices.
The secondary characters were great. Arielle's best friend Obelix in particular was brilliant. Her parents rather worryingly reminded me of mine. Thankfully we've never had a dinner party conversation quite like the one Arielle suffers through. I would have liked more about Noah and Peter, but only because there seems to be more story there (big spoilers so I won't go into detail).
Kept is a brilliant debut by Elle and although I'm not sure I'll ever be completely converted to chick-lit, I did really enjoy it.
4 Stars in my Sky!
My fav non-spoilery quotes:
•Funny because four days ago they tarred him as my pimp, yet now all of a sudden he's Prince bloody Charming.
•Ob is practically salivating, and this is why we would never hook up in a million years. He is such a pervert.
•"Do I really look that bad?" "You look like you're suffering from colour vomit."
Also reviewed on my Blog Zili in the Sky!
After a series of unfortunate and hilarious events Arielle ends up living with and being taken care of by the hot, rich banker, Piers. The story begins fours years after Arielle and Piers meet, and is told in a mixture of flashbacks and current narrative. Instead of working in fashion and following her dreams, as the title suggests, Arielle has spent years living as a kept woman. I'll leave you to discover the rest of the plot because it's both heartwarming and really funny.
Arielle's inner dialogue was really funny, right up there with Bridget Jones. Although I must say as a complete fashion no-go a lot of the designer brands and names she mentions were completely lost on me and at times I think I may have missed the in jokes.
Arielle is ruled by her past and lets previous heartbreak control her actions (or lack thereof). I felt for Arielle because we've all had our confidence knocked and made regrettable choices.
The secondary characters were great. Arielle's best friend Obelix in particular was brilliant. Her parents rather worryingly reminded me of mine. Thankfully we've never had a dinner party conversation quite like the one Arielle suffers through. I would have liked more about Noah and Peter, but only because there seems to be more story there (big spoilers so I won't go into detail).
Kept is a brilliant debut by Elle and although I'm not sure I'll ever be completely converted to chick-lit, I did really enjoy it.
4 Stars in my Sky!
My fav non-spoilery quotes:
•Funny because four days ago they tarred him as my pimp, yet now all of a sudden he's Prince bloody Charming.
•Ob is practically salivating, and this is why we would never hook up in a million years. He is such a pervert.
•"Do I really look that bad?" "You look like you're suffering from colour vomit."
Also reviewed on my Blog Zili in the Sky!
March 31, 2015
I would like to first of all thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read and review her work and will provide an honest review in return.
If you were to look at my bookshelf, you will see that I have not read many novels from the chick-lit category (by the way, this category really needs to be renamed!), however it is changing slowly so far, probably in line with meeting my goal of reading more widely.
Back to “Kept” now, which I would admit to not have taken to right away. My rating was set on a 3 star for a while but gradually progressed to a 4 star rating and this is the reason:
Although I enjoyed getting to know the personality of Arielle, the main character of the piece, the first quarter of the book was written as what I can only describe as a very long “Arielle monologue” travelling back and forth between the past and the present. My criticism of this point is twofold: The Arielle monologue is very fitting and completely captures the essence of this young lady trying to find herself. When we first meet her, we are faced with a self-centred young woman who behaves like an ungrateful brat and who thinks the world revolves around her.
For this reason the Arielle monologue is perfect. It is however not to my taste but is a matter of personal preference.
The remaining three quarters of the book were a delightful read. From this point on, we are introduced to several characters bringing their own voice and story to the novel. In addition to Arielle finally having a life changing moment those new characters will add some depth to Arielle’s world.
Basically, I went from wanting to shake her silly to rooting for her. A complete 360° turnaround!!
I also get the feeling that the author really enjoyed writing Arielle’s journey to achieving her dream. This certainly came through in the novel. This made me look forward to the second instalment and is also the reason for my rating.
If you were to look at my bookshelf, you will see that I have not read many novels from the chick-lit category (by the way, this category really needs to be renamed!), however it is changing slowly so far, probably in line with meeting my goal of reading more widely.
Back to “Kept” now, which I would admit to not have taken to right away. My rating was set on a 3 star for a while but gradually progressed to a 4 star rating and this is the reason:
Although I enjoyed getting to know the personality of Arielle, the main character of the piece, the first quarter of the book was written as what I can only describe as a very long “Arielle monologue” travelling back and forth between the past and the present. My criticism of this point is twofold: The Arielle monologue is very fitting and completely captures the essence of this young lady trying to find herself. When we first meet her, we are faced with a self-centred young woman who behaves like an ungrateful brat and who thinks the world revolves around her.
For this reason the Arielle monologue is perfect. It is however not to my taste but is a matter of personal preference.
The remaining three quarters of the book were a delightful read. From this point on, we are introduced to several characters bringing their own voice and story to the novel. In addition to Arielle finally having a life changing moment those new characters will add some depth to Arielle’s world.
Basically, I went from wanting to shake her silly to rooting for her. A complete 360° turnaround!!
I also get the feeling that the author really enjoyed writing Arielle’s journey to achieving her dream. This certainly came through in the novel. This made me look forward to the second instalment and is also the reason for my rating.
June 5, 2015
I wasn’t sure how I was going to get on with Arielle the main character in this book as she begins the story with her fare dodging on the train, and not just a short hop, London to Hampshire. I decided to give her the benefit of the doubt and I’m glad I did, as Arielle loves fashion. She loves styling people and she name drops so many fashion icons that I was drawn into the book so quickly. At first I thought she was like Becky in the Shopaholic series - but I couldn't have been more wrong!
However, then Arielle began to exhaust me with her “what if” thoughts. She was down the path through the gate and over the road and down to the river, before any other character had time to draw breath. So – like a few people can behave in real life.
The book skips back and forth through the present day and the past. A couple of times it led on as if it was still the present, but it dawned on me that we had receded into the past after a page or so due to the references made. Clever, but it threw me out a couple of times.
The storyline never stood still – in fact it was a little bit like one of those action films where you think everyone is going to be safe, then another bombshell lands and shakes it all up again. I liked the unpredictability of it – it kept me interested and made me realise this was not going to be an ordinary girl meets boy chick lit novel.
So many classic lines that Arielle utters, but to quote and explain would just spoil the plot – so read it and find out for yourself. I doubt you’ve ever met a character quite like Arielle. There’s a second book called Lost which is just out – and despite being a little exasperated by Arielle, I would like to know what happens next……….
My thanks to the author for supplying me with a copy of this book to review, and as promised, I read it all before I wrote my review ;) Great cover BTW.
However, then Arielle began to exhaust me with her “what if” thoughts. She was down the path through the gate and over the road and down to the river, before any other character had time to draw breath. So – like a few people can behave in real life.
The book skips back and forth through the present day and the past. A couple of times it led on as if it was still the present, but it dawned on me that we had receded into the past after a page or so due to the references made. Clever, but it threw me out a couple of times.
The storyline never stood still – in fact it was a little bit like one of those action films where you think everyone is going to be safe, then another bombshell lands and shakes it all up again. I liked the unpredictability of it – it kept me interested and made me realise this was not going to be an ordinary girl meets boy chick lit novel.
So many classic lines that Arielle utters, but to quote and explain would just spoil the plot – so read it and find out for yourself. I doubt you’ve ever met a character quite like Arielle. There’s a second book called Lost which is just out – and despite being a little exasperated by Arielle, I would like to know what happens next……….
My thanks to the author for supplying me with a copy of this book to review, and as promised, I read it all before I wrote my review ;) Great cover BTW.
April 4, 2017
Sweet story
What a sweet story of finding love before finding yourself. I can't wait to read the next books in the series!
What a sweet story of finding love before finding yourself. I can't wait to read the next books in the series!
August 2, 2013
We are first introduced to Arielle while she is sitting on a train in a first class compartment without a first class ticket. She has somehow got into this situation and the author then takes us back to the events that led up to this.
We discover that Arielle is very spoilt! She really thinks that her Fairy Godmother is going to come and sort things out for her! If only! Arielle then realises that she will actually have to apply for jobs and go to interviews and that a job is not going to magically materialise on its own.
Arielle is thrown back a bit when she is interviewed by Penelope Whitter, who is not at all nice to Arielle. But this leads Arielle to meet her soon-to-be boyfriend Piers. Piers absolutely dotes on her, but an argument later on in the relationship leads him to kick her out, forcing Arielle to go back to her parents and to rethink her life.
At the start I really didn't like Arielle with her spoilt attitude, but as the novel goes on, we see her start to grow up and pursue the dreams that she originally had. I really liked this idea as I'm sure we all have dreams, but for one reason or another have not been to pursue them. So I could relate to Arielle in this way.
I really liked Piers. He was such a gentleman. It was really funny how he and Arielle met. He definitely needed to kick Arielle out, but he did play a big part in Arielle not working for so long, so at the same time I thought it was mean of him.
I thought Elle wrote very well and I could picture all the settings, especially London. I really did enjoy this, it's a great debut from Elle with lots of laughs and the ups and downs that life can throw at you. A great chic-lit novel. Well done Elle!
We discover that Arielle is very spoilt! She really thinks that her Fairy Godmother is going to come and sort things out for her! If only! Arielle then realises that she will actually have to apply for jobs and go to interviews and that a job is not going to magically materialise on its own.
Arielle is thrown back a bit when she is interviewed by Penelope Whitter, who is not at all nice to Arielle. But this leads Arielle to meet her soon-to-be boyfriend Piers. Piers absolutely dotes on her, but an argument later on in the relationship leads him to kick her out, forcing Arielle to go back to her parents and to rethink her life.
At the start I really didn't like Arielle with her spoilt attitude, but as the novel goes on, we see her start to grow up and pursue the dreams that she originally had. I really liked this idea as I'm sure we all have dreams, but for one reason or another have not been to pursue them. So I could relate to Arielle in this way.
I really liked Piers. He was such a gentleman. It was really funny how he and Arielle met. He definitely needed to kick Arielle out, but he did play a big part in Arielle not working for so long, so at the same time I thought it was mean of him.
I thought Elle wrote very well and I could picture all the settings, especially London. I really did enjoy this, it's a great debut from Elle with lots of laughs and the ups and downs that life can throw at you. A great chic-lit novel. Well done Elle!
July 22, 2016
My thoughts:
To be honest when I first started reading I was a little unsure about the book as I didn't exactly find myself a fan of Arielle. So I was worried that I wouldn't connect with the character or story. However in no time Arielle really did redeem herself. I think she had her faults but they were made worse by how other people treated her. They allowed her to become a more spoilt person who depended on others.
Elle Field did a great job of building the character of Arielle. I really enjoyed seeing how she developed as a person. One of the characters I loved was her old friend Obelix. Even though they hadn't seen each other for a while it was as if no time had passed. A definite sign of a true friend. Piers was interesting as I went back and forth with my opinion of him. A special mention has to go to Felicity, I thought she was great.
The plot moved at a good pace, I was pulled into story right from the first chapter. Even though I wasn't necessarily a fan of Arielle to start with she was certainly an intriguing character. You could see this right from the beginning of the book when Arielle was on the train. I pretty much read this book in two sittings and stayed up late to finish as I couldn't put the book down. By the end I was definitely a fan and I really hope Arielle gets her happy ever after!
I would definitely love to read the rest of the books in the series. Elle Field has written some interesting characters and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
Overall:
Kept has a special charm, is fun and very entertaining!
Five stars from me!
Thank you to Elle Field who kindly sent me a copy to read and review. This is my honest opinion.
To be honest when I first started reading I was a little unsure about the book as I didn't exactly find myself a fan of Arielle. So I was worried that I wouldn't connect with the character or story. However in no time Arielle really did redeem herself. I think she had her faults but they were made worse by how other people treated her. They allowed her to become a more spoilt person who depended on others.
Elle Field did a great job of building the character of Arielle. I really enjoyed seeing how she developed as a person. One of the characters I loved was her old friend Obelix. Even though they hadn't seen each other for a while it was as if no time had passed. A definite sign of a true friend. Piers was interesting as I went back and forth with my opinion of him. A special mention has to go to Felicity, I thought she was great.
The plot moved at a good pace, I was pulled into story right from the first chapter. Even though I wasn't necessarily a fan of Arielle to start with she was certainly an intriguing character. You could see this right from the beginning of the book when Arielle was on the train. I pretty much read this book in two sittings and stayed up late to finish as I couldn't put the book down. By the end I was definitely a fan and I really hope Arielle gets her happy ever after!
I would definitely love to read the rest of the books in the series. Elle Field has written some interesting characters and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
Overall:
Kept has a special charm, is fun and very entertaining!
Five stars from me!
Thank you to Elle Field who kindly sent me a copy to read and review. This is my honest opinion.
March 1, 2017
Amusing, interesting,frustrating
So this was a funny read. The authors observations seen through the eyes of Arielle are amusing. I liked the plot and the H and side characters.
Arielle is a bit frustrating sometimes as she is quite immature and not at all good at explaining herself ,which would have solved a lot of her problems. But as you read you realise that there are actually reasons for her hiding her head in the sand and not facing issues. (An old childhood trauma). I do think her employment issues were solved a little too easily but fair enough this is romantic fiction and I believe its going to get harder in book 2 which I will be reading.
So this was a funny read. The authors observations seen through the eyes of Arielle are amusing. I liked the plot and the H and side characters.
Arielle is a bit frustrating sometimes as she is quite immature and not at all good at explaining herself ,which would have solved a lot of her problems. But as you read you realise that there are actually reasons for her hiding her head in the sand and not facing issues. (An old childhood trauma). I do think her employment issues were solved a little too easily but fair enough this is romantic fiction and I believe its going to get harder in book 2 which I will be reading.
May 27, 2013
You know when you finish a book and you're beaming because you've just found a gem? Well that I'm doing right this minute.
Kept follows Arielle Lockley in her spoilt world of designer clothes and fancy holidays all courtesy of boyfriend Piers. However, Arielle has put aside her passion of becoming a fashion designer and her heart to selfishly participate in piers world. She likes Piers, but she loves teen boyfriend Noah.
After a spat with Piers, and a one-night stand with Noah who has declared his undying love for her, what will she do? Who will she choose? And, will she ever get a job?
I loved this book! Absolutely loved it.
I devoured it in just 2 hours it was that good. From the very first page I was locked into Arielles world. I giggled and gasped, tutted and bit my lip in sadness. Rooted for the man of my choice and adored all the drama.
The characters are all superbly written, each one has a lovely charm and a background story, making you understand and connect with them. You will definitely connect with Arielle, half way through the book you'll think you are her. (Well I did anyway.)
There are far too many parts in Kept that had me giggling, but my favourite being the conversations about swinging and rimming with piles by Mr and Mrs Lockley and their two friends around the dinner table, Much to Arielles horror!
haha I'm still laughing about it now.
For a debut novel Elle Field has produced an absolute cracker.
I cannot wait to read what she pulls out for us next.
If you want Funny, charming, romantic and full of drama and designer clothes. This is for you.
Fabulous chick-lit. Seriously get yourself a copy you will not be disappointed.
Kept follows Arielle Lockley in her spoilt world of designer clothes and fancy holidays all courtesy of boyfriend Piers. However, Arielle has put aside her passion of becoming a fashion designer and her heart to selfishly participate in piers world. She likes Piers, but she loves teen boyfriend Noah.
After a spat with Piers, and a one-night stand with Noah who has declared his undying love for her, what will she do? Who will she choose? And, will she ever get a job?
I loved this book! Absolutely loved it.
I devoured it in just 2 hours it was that good. From the very first page I was locked into Arielles world. I giggled and gasped, tutted and bit my lip in sadness. Rooted for the man of my choice and adored all the drama.
The characters are all superbly written, each one has a lovely charm and a background story, making you understand and connect with them. You will definitely connect with Arielle, half way through the book you'll think you are her. (Well I did anyway.)
There are far too many parts in Kept that had me giggling, but my favourite being the conversations about swinging and rimming with piles by Mr and Mrs Lockley and their two friends around the dinner table, Much to Arielles horror!
haha I'm still laughing about it now.
For a debut novel Elle Field has produced an absolute cracker.
I cannot wait to read what she pulls out for us next.
If you want Funny, charming, romantic and full of drama and designer clothes. This is for you.
Fabulous chick-lit. Seriously get yourself a copy you will not be disappointed.
August 19, 2016
Kept is the first book in the Arielle Lockley series. Boy are we in for a treat!.
We start off with finding out that Arielle has lost everything, her beautiful clothes, her beautiful home and most of all her amazing boyfriend of 4 years, Piers. Having to move back in with her parents, Arielle is struggling with life and cant find a job. It seems Arielle had it all, so what went wrong?.
As we settle back into the story, we learn that Piers has thrown Arielle out of their home with no money, no clothes, no nothing. She only has one option and that is to return to her parents. Piers was the perfect man, he adored Arielle, he paid for everything, he gave her everything and took her out to posh restaurants and on amazing holidays. He prefered her not to work, so really Ariele was living the dream!. She soon learns not everything is given on a silver spoon and you have to earn things in life, even possessions. I really liked Arielle as we followed her journey, at first she seemed very up herself but she soon makes a u turn.
We were kept on our toes through out this book and i loved that there were twists and turns on every page. Elle Field kept us guessing and i was eager to find out if Arielle would go with her best friend Obelix, her first love Noah or back to Piers.
My favourite part has to be when Arielle's parents had their friends around for dinner and Arielle was shocked at their conversation, this had me laughing out loud as she wondered what had happened to her now sex mad parents.
This is a brilliant paced story and Elle Field has captured my heart with Arielle already. I cant wait to start on book 2 - Lost.
We start off with finding out that Arielle has lost everything, her beautiful clothes, her beautiful home and most of all her amazing boyfriend of 4 years, Piers. Having to move back in with her parents, Arielle is struggling with life and cant find a job. It seems Arielle had it all, so what went wrong?.
As we settle back into the story, we learn that Piers has thrown Arielle out of their home with no money, no clothes, no nothing. She only has one option and that is to return to her parents. Piers was the perfect man, he adored Arielle, he paid for everything, he gave her everything and took her out to posh restaurants and on amazing holidays. He prefered her not to work, so really Ariele was living the dream!. She soon learns not everything is given on a silver spoon and you have to earn things in life, even possessions. I really liked Arielle as we followed her journey, at first she seemed very up herself but she soon makes a u turn.
We were kept on our toes through out this book and i loved that there were twists and turns on every page. Elle Field kept us guessing and i was eager to find out if Arielle would go with her best friend Obelix, her first love Noah or back to Piers.
My favourite part has to be when Arielle's parents had their friends around for dinner and Arielle was shocked at their conversation, this had me laughing out loud as she wondered what had happened to her now sex mad parents.
This is a brilliant paced story and Elle Field has captured my heart with Arielle already. I cant wait to start on book 2 - Lost.
July 28, 2013
Kept is a very current, chick lit debut novel by Elle Field. It's the story of Arielle and in a nutshell her journey of growing up and self discovery.
Arielle tells us her story in a series of flashbacks mixed in with details of her current predicaments. Her biggest problem being how her past has defined her future until she decides to do something about it! That, you'll need to read for yourself.
Although I didn't particularly like Arielle, there are lots of other supporting characters that I really liked; particularly Obelisk. He was by far, my favourite character and reminded me of a lost friendship I had and recently rekindled just like it was old times!
I thought I'd really enjoy this and I don't know whether it was just timing (busy and tired) but I found it really hard to get into. I found it really hard to engage with the characters - particularly Arielle, I just felt she was so spoilt and she really annoyed me but I stuck with it. It wasn't about till half way through when I actually started to feel like I was getting somewhere.
I actually think the problem for me was that the book was too young for me and that's why I couldn't get interested. This is in no way detrimental to the author and how it's written, I just don't think I'm the target age group (late thirties). I'd think you'd enjoy this if you're late teens to late twenties.
Overall maybe a little too fluffy chick lit for me but a fun girly read all the same.
Many thanks to the author, Elle Field, for sending me a copy to review.
Arielle tells us her story in a series of flashbacks mixed in with details of her current predicaments. Her biggest problem being how her past has defined her future until she decides to do something about it! That, you'll need to read for yourself.
Although I didn't particularly like Arielle, there are lots of other supporting characters that I really liked; particularly Obelisk. He was by far, my favourite character and reminded me of a lost friendship I had and recently rekindled just like it was old times!
I thought I'd really enjoy this and I don't know whether it was just timing (busy and tired) but I found it really hard to get into. I found it really hard to engage with the characters - particularly Arielle, I just felt she was so spoilt and she really annoyed me but I stuck with it. It wasn't about till half way through when I actually started to feel like I was getting somewhere.
I actually think the problem for me was that the book was too young for me and that's why I couldn't get interested. This is in no way detrimental to the author and how it's written, I just don't think I'm the target age group (late thirties). I'd think you'd enjoy this if you're late teens to late twenties.
Overall maybe a little too fluffy chick lit for me but a fun girly read all the same.
Many thanks to the author, Elle Field, for sending me a copy to review.
December 21, 2015
This is the first book introducing us to Arielle .. with a name like that you kind of expect a spoilt brat or I least I did .. the initial glimpses of her hopping on a train without a ticket didn’t give me an overly positive impression of her, a post grad not working then living ‘off’ her rich boyfriend etc as the story progresses she certainly seems obnoxious but as I read on Arielle worked her way into my heart.
She has her fair share of relationship problems, living with the parents isn’t straightforward & there seems no purpose in her life, she is fashion obsessed & has a dream that maybe she can make something of herself before she gets too old. With a bit of hard work, planning & a ‘magical’ intervention her life slowly alters. The humour in parts had me in stitches .. squirming with embarrassment when her parents start talking about swinging for instance, the comic moments were some of my favourite parts.
I wasn’t overly keen on her pompous boyfriend Piers but he suits her & I will be interested to see if that continues into the next book or if there is a change of direction .. Arielle strikes me as someone who can alter her mind at the drop of a hat! Super light, easy to read romantic comedy with a ‘coming of age’ slant … I am about to begin the next book in the series .. ‘Lost’ so I’m looking forward to see where Arielle goes next.
Many thanks to Elle for gifting me these books in exchange for my honest opinion.
She has her fair share of relationship problems, living with the parents isn’t straightforward & there seems no purpose in her life, she is fashion obsessed & has a dream that maybe she can make something of herself before she gets too old. With a bit of hard work, planning & a ‘magical’ intervention her life slowly alters. The humour in parts had me in stitches .. squirming with embarrassment when her parents start talking about swinging for instance, the comic moments were some of my favourite parts.
I wasn’t overly keen on her pompous boyfriend Piers but he suits her & I will be interested to see if that continues into the next book or if there is a change of direction .. Arielle strikes me as someone who can alter her mind at the drop of a hat! Super light, easy to read romantic comedy with a ‘coming of age’ slant … I am about to begin the next book in the series .. ‘Lost’ so I’m looking forward to see where Arielle goes next.
Many thanks to Elle for gifting me these books in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 7, 2017
During the first few chapters I found myself struggling to warm to Arielle. I really wanted to like her but her admissions made it difficult. Piers seemed too good to be true, I was waiting for him to do something that would rock the boat. But would he?
It didn't take too long for me to get to know Arielle and realise that she simply let life pull her along rather than try to take control of it herself. I was keen to find out how or if she would be able to straighten herself out. She ended up making me giggle quite a lot, particularly as her situation continued to spiral.
The mysterious 'him' kept me guessing throughout the first half of the book and when 'he' was revealed I was surprised by what happened next. I didn't think it would end well.
The opportunity that presented itself later in the book was fabulous and I couldn't wait to see where Arielle would go with it. It turned out to be a life-changing moment for her.
This was a fun read but also thought-provoking and it showed that with a little determination you can achieve anything!
It didn't take too long for me to get to know Arielle and realise that she simply let life pull her along rather than try to take control of it herself. I was keen to find out how or if she would be able to straighten herself out. She ended up making me giggle quite a lot, particularly as her situation continued to spiral.
The mysterious 'him' kept me guessing throughout the first half of the book and when 'he' was revealed I was surprised by what happened next. I didn't think it would end well.
The opportunity that presented itself later in the book was fabulous and I couldn't wait to see where Arielle would go with it. It turned out to be a life-changing moment for her.
This was a fun read but also thought-provoking and it showed that with a little determination you can achieve anything!
October 27, 2017
Arielle is one of the most ridiculous characters I have read in a very long time. What kept the book going is the shock factor at how obtuse she could be. From the start you realize that Arielle is a brat. She has no backbone, constantly demonstrates just how lazy and idiotic she is and unfortunately she's just one of the many characters that you will not like. Her ex-boyfriend Piers is a very questionable character. While it easy to fall for the way he cared for her, their relationship was bad. No one should be treated the way she was- twice! Then there are the weird flashbacks that are supposed to fill you in on why her future has been such a train wreck. It doesn't make sense, especially the ending, which I felt was rushed given how dragged out just about everything else was.
July 16, 2013
Loved it! Chick-lit isn’t really my thing, but every now and then it’s nice to sit down and relax with a fun, light read. So on a friend’s recommendation I chose ‘Kept’. And ‘Kept’ completely took me by surprise. I ended up reading a funny, well crafted novel about a cast of characters that I really cared about. It took a while to warm to Arielle (don’t call her ‘Ariel’!) but somewhere along the line she became a friend and I found myself cheering for her at every corner. ‘Kept’ is a smartly written, summer read and it’s left me looking forward to reading Elle’s next novel. Well done, Elle!
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