Wodehouse is fast becoming a comfort read, along with Miss Read’s series of books. But while I read Miss Read for the charm of old-time rural England, Wodehouse appeals for the sense of humour that suffuses his works.

Joy in the Morning has Bertie Wooster endeavouring to evade marriage (again) and the wrath of his Aunt Agatha. The two formidable women might even be a match for Jeeves, who occasionally finds himself without a plan – even when the fishing is good! Trapped in the village of Steeple Bumpleigh, Bertie and Jeeves have got their hands full with love and business.

Once again, this was an extremely fun book to read. Having read a few Wodehouse books before this, I’ve started to recognise some of the minor characters, and this familiarity endeared the book to me even more. It’s like going back to an old friend who has a new story to cheer you up.

Characters introduced in this book include Nobby, Bertie’s uncle’s ward; the love of her life and coincidentally Bertie’s old pal Boko; the very impressionable Stilton; and Bertie’s pushy ex-fiancee Florence. All four were fun to read and I liked how their personalities played off each other. In particular, it was interesting to see the contrast between Boko and Stilton, since both of them have been Bertie’s friends before the events of the novel.

As always, this was a joy to read. Bertie may not have had the best time, but he and Jeeves make a great team and I’m sure I’ll be back for more of their adventures soon.