Jessica (HDB)

I forgot how much fun this series is! I read The Eyre Affair for the first time about 6 years ago, back before I was really tracking my reading. So, when my book club chose it for our monthly read, I was ecstatic to dive back in!

Jasper Fforde is the master of literary humor. His in-jokes are wonderful, and his character names just as good. This book is like a love letter to bookish people everywhere. Especially if you're a fan of the classics. Thursday's world is beautiful chaos. She lives in a Great Britain that is similar to ours, but also filled with all manner of curiosities. Time travel is owned by the government, LiteraTechs exist to protect our written works, and the paranormal has a foothold as well. I love the way Fforde brings all of that to life, and makes it seem utterly plausible.

This particular book puts us smack dab in the middle of a high profile heist. Thursday's life is turned upside down when she's asked to track down Archeron Hades, a master villain. I have to say, as much as Hades is a perfect villain, he's also absolutely fascinating! I loved the back and forth between him and Thursday. Both brilliant, both stubborn, both excellent at what they did. In fact, Thursday's relationships throughout the book were my favorite part. She has quite the habit of getting caught up in things that are dangerous.

I honestly forgot how much I adore Thursday Next and her wacky version of Great Britain. I'm so glad I had the chance to experience it all over again! I can't wait to read more!