The Perpetual Astonishment of Jonathon Fairfax

By: Christopher Shevlin

Narrated by: Finlay Robertson

When Jonathon Fairfax accidentally helps a murderer bump off Sarah Morecambe, the secretary of a senior politician, he sets off a chain of events that astonishes him. Jonathon is wrong-footed by even the most everyday things, so he's particularly startled to find himself caught up in a conspiracy that goes right to the heart of government. Teaming up with a suave private investigator, a glamorous granny and the probable love of his life, Jonathon must confront his greatest fears - including talking to girls and balaclava-clad killers - and answer some very difficult questions. Who murdered Sarah Morecambe? What is the strange secret that unites the entire British government? And what exactly does it feel like to kiss a real-life woman?

With its naïve, reluctant hero and wry look at life, The Perpetual Astonishment of Jonathon Fairfax has been compared to books by Douglas Adams, Carl Hiaasen and PG Wodehouse.

©2019 Christopher Shevlin (P)2019 W. F. Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

"You can't help being tickled." (The Guardian)

"Not many books make me laugh out loud, but The Perpetual Astonishment of Jonathon Fairfax is one of them...A comic gem." (Stylist magazine)

"Shevlin was rightly picked up by the literary agency that represents the likes of David Nicholls." (Metro)

Delightful

I didn't know what to expect but it was quite funny and I actually laughed out loud. Great narration.

A challenge met

I wonder if Shevlin challenged himself to write a main character who was introverted, self affecting, and rarely knows what to say? There was danger such a character would be boring or annoying but the befuddled Jonathon delighted me from the beginning. As did Lance and Jane. I love Shevlin’s humor. Finlay Robertson’s narration is excellent, he does a wonderful job all round but particularly with Jonathon.

Terrific

Well done all around. An excellent narration of an amusing, original story. I will certainly look for other work by both Shevlin and Robertson.

Somewhat amusing

It’s an amusing story, feels fresh and original. There is imagination and humor. I don’t regret listening to it.

Funny with some great characters

I will listen to all of Shevlin's books. I'm Looking forward to number four.

Favorite author and series Hidden Gem

If you enjoy being happy, this is the book for you.

I love this character, this book, this author, this series, and the narrator. It’s hilarious, enjoyable, sweet, kind, fun and in all ways…for me…in all ways perfect.

I’ve known about the author for a while, but for some reason didn’t review the books. The past few years have been a lot for everyone, but that’s why I revisited this series.

tThats when I realized I’d never reviewed it! Like a favorite neighborhood restaurant, you don’t want to tell everyone about it because next thing you know everyone goes and you can’t get a table. But books aren’t like that and if there was ever a time and a world that could benefit from Jonathon Fairfax, it is now and here. So. Fine.

It’s one of two series I can read and reread and the joy never diminishes. So that’s my recommendation, I’ve never been more certain of a recommendation, or aware of my limitations as a critic. But if you 1) have a good sense of humor and 2) you are a good person then 3) you will love this book. One last suggestion…1.25x is a perfect speed.

Fun imaginative and entertaining

Made me think, smile, and laugh out loud. I enjoyed this much more than I anticipated.
Interesting story great narration!

Oh My Goodness!

This book was absolutely delightful! I am off to purchase book 2 with my fingers crossed that there will be many more adventures for Johnathan.

Like PG Wodehouse but set in 1993 London

It’s like something from P.G. Wodehouse set in London circa 1993 else a very, very, VERY British “A Confederacy of Dunces”. It’s absurdist and silly while being dry and subtle. I can understand that a lot of Americans (especially younger ones) might not get the humor or a lot of the references. But if you’re gen X and familiar with British humor you’ll have a good time.

Great story with LOL moments

I enjoyed this story...I laughed out loud often, I look forward to growing with characters, and the narration was superb.