I'd never read any of Fforde's works before -- I bought it on a gamble; I liked what I read on the back cover. It paid off. This book is amazing, just amazing. One of the most original dystopian novels to be written in years. It's also surprisingly funny at times, and will leave you with more than a few thoughts to chew over once you've turned the last page. I can't wait until the next book in the series is released.