Helen Fielding, Author Extraordinaire

With all the modern technologies and quality forms of entertainment it seems the written word has slowly lost its value in today’s society. Sure there are lots of bookstores ranging anywhere from new to used and of course there are libraries where you don’t have to spend a penny unless you fail to return a book on time, but I still find someone reading for pleasure a scarce commodity. I refuse to hide in the shadows any longer. My secret? I am an avid reader. And at the risk of sounding nerd-like or bookish I have to tell you that reading a book can really change your perspective on things. While I have been known to crack open a classic tale every now and then, I find that modern day fiction also has many interesting and delightful tales that would ensnare even the most unlikely of readers.

Helen Fielding first came to my attention in the wake of the whole Bridget Jones’s Diary movie making pursuit. I watched as both volumes were made into movies and thought that perhaps the books themselves would also be of interest to me. By the first chapter, I was enraptured. Ms. Fielding writes in such an interesting voice I find myself not wanting to put the book down. I must know what happens to her zany characters at once.

The newest addition to Helen’s writing resume is dubbed, Olivia Joules and the Overactive Imagination. This story is about a journalist searching for the next big story and the only thing that can hold her back is her own overactive imagination.

Upon being introduced to a trendy perfume maker at a premier party in Los Angeles, Ms. Joules cannot help but shake the feeling that perhaps Monsieur Ferramo is more than what he seems. Olivia remembers hearing that al-Qaeda terrorists have been rumored to dress up like westerners in order to subtly infiltrate our society. These men adopt American culture despite their religion to lash out at the world. Pierre Ferramo is a wealthy, attractive businessman and surely a terrorist. Our spunky journalist is determined to find out this playboy’s secrets no matter where in the world it takes her. Too bad for Olivia this millionaire sexpot has his eyes fixed on her. Has she uncovered one of the biggest scandals of our time, or is she simply suffering from her overactive imagination once more?

Olivia Joules is a strong character that you cannot help but love. Sure she’s rash, but it only adds to her charm. She is sexy, sophisticated, and above all, curious. Her escapades in this book remind me of all the fun I had reading both Jones novels. Both characters are witty British women who despite many obstacles both real and imagined capture my full and complete attention.

Helen Fielding has proven once more that British women can kick some bloody butt while still having time for tea. This book is a wildly funny ride and an adventure anyone would want to embark on. Be sure to read it now BEFORE it is made into a movie. You won’t regret it.

Hats off to you Helen. You’ve done it again.