Jeeves and the King of Clubs

One of the most famous comic duos in literature returns in Jeeves and the King of Clubs. Ben Schott writes his novel in homage to P.G. Wodehouse, creator of the inimitable Bertie Wooster and his gentleman's personal gentleman, Jeeves. In this installment, the British Secret Services asks Bertie and Jeeves to help foil a plot to subvert the English government.

Bertie and Jeeves are recruited to spy on Roderick Spode, an upper-crust fascist. As Bertie says, "Eager to help His Maj in any way I can, so long as it does not impinge too momentously on the social calendar." This assignment sets the stage for multiple plot lines with well-known characters and tropes that fans of Wodehouse expect. Bertie's good Aunt Dahlia needs help with an elaborate money-making scheme. The Drones, his social club, is temporarily closed, forcing a move to a less desirable one. And certain former fiancées, namely Madeline Bassett and Florence Cray, are lurking about--right when Bertie's fascinated with mysterious and clever young Iona MacAuslan. Throughout all this, Jeeves, whose brainpower is second to none, ensures that all will be right in the end.

Wodehouse is known for his metaphors and humorous dialogue, and Schott does not disappoint. Speaking of Spode's ghastly personality, Bertie says, "It's as if evolution took a wrong turn, got stuck in a cul-de-sac, and just threw in the sponge." Jeeves and the King of Clubs is an enjoyable, smile-a-minute escape. Toodle-oo! --Cindy Pauldine, bookseller, the river's end bookstore, Oswego, N.Y.

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