It’s a 3.5. 3 for overall enjoyment and 4 for general appreciation of the book itself.

The letter format was slightly unexpected and it did seem to take a while for the characters to establish themselves through that particular style, but once the book settled down, the humour and story started to emerge. Although in places it almost did seem more of a guide book to Britain in the late 1700s when the plot started treading water, but Smollett’s writing was decent enough that it wasn’t too off-putting.

Also appreciated how Smollett underscored the human aspect of living during that period, just how downright uncomfortable it would have been at its very best. Something that many authors during and after that time wouldn’t even think to include for being too unseemly.

Overall, I’m glad I read this one. Very much found it to be book of its time and an excellent snapshot of that particular moment of history, warts and all.