If you love `Diary of a Nobody', you'll love this, too.
The premise is simple - Carrie kept a diary, too. Unlike her husband, she has kept her diary under wraps...
There are many things to enjoy about this book. First and foremost, the author is clearly a fan of the original. Modern humour is so often destructive and vicious: the Grossmiths loved their characters, laughable as they were, and so does Waterhouse. Secondly, he has captured the voice of the era, and specifically of a lady of that era and that class. Thirdly he has done copious research - all kinds of 1890's products pop up and add authenticity.
He adds some extra storylines, all of which work, and gets round the one weakness of the original, its contrived `deus ex machina' ending, by adding a gently ironic twist.
This is best read in conjunction with the original, a chapter each at a time. Occasionally, he appears to get out of step, but only occasionally, and soon gets back on track again.
Of course, if you haven't read `Dairy of a Nobody', then this must all seem a little puzzling. Give yourself a treat: rush out and buy a copy immediately, and get hold of this book as well.
