The Pear Affair

Penelope (Nell) Magnificent might be surrounded by a life of luxury, but it seems to her that they don’t even really like her. Constantly criticising her, ignoring her and even forgetting her, they seem to value the handbag she was named for more than they do her. Still, when they decide to go to Paris on a business trip, Nell surprises them by pleading to go with them. Paris is where Nell’s old au pair, Perrine or Pear as Nell affectionately calls her, lives and Nell is determined to find her because recently Pear has stopped writing to her.

Once in Paris, Nell sets off on her mission to locate Pear which leads her to explore Paris, makes friends and discover the underground world of the catacombs beneath the city. But there is another mystery to solve as a strange virus starts affecting the bakeries and patisseries of Paris.

Judith Eagle has captured Paris beautifully in this wonderful novel. Her attention to detail and vivid descriptions make the city come to life, both above and beneath ground level. And set against this beautiful backdrop is a very satisfying, pacy read which is full of action and excitement.

Nell is a fabulous character! Determined and independent, her loyalty and devotion to Pear enable her to face her fears and overcome the many challenges set in her way. As the story is set in the 60s, there are no mobile phones for her to rely on and she and her new friends have to rely on their own resourcefulness in the face of danger and adversity.

There are many threads to this story, all gathering to a final solution which is satisfying and unexpected. Each mystery merges with the other as Nell and her friends realise just what is going on and decide to take action to prevent it.

‘The Pear Affair’ is a real must read. The storytelling, the description, the characters… all elements combine to make this a stunning story. I hope there will be more adventures for Nell and her friends very soon!

The Pear Affair Judith Eagle

Faber and Faber ISBN: 978-0571346851