The Merde Factor Hardcover – Unabridged, January 1, 2014

Simply the originality of Stephen’s works are the first reason to read. Having been through the trials and tribulations of the character through the series - without offering a ‘spoiler’ - a brilliant addition to his works. And, as one who does not particularly enjoy Paris, you can’t get a better description of the people and lifestyles. Loved it.

Stephen Clarke has depicted a very real, although fictional, Paris and Parisian life, as I remembered from my university days. Living and working immersed in French culture is both unnerving and exiting – the French (those form Paris, it is important to make a distinction) have a very realistic philosophy of life that involves Mr. Murphy and a backed up latrine. The sooner we embrace that, the sooner we can call a plumber. And improve it considerably. This funny tale puts all that into perspective and makes the ready wish he/she was there, having a croissant at the banks of the Seine and – almost at the same time, thankful that he/she is not. That is a very nice book, light reading and goes as quick as a pigeon looking for its next victim.

Stephen Clarke is excellent at research driven books such as 1000 years of annoying the french (which I read twice) but seems to have no imagination in developing a plot. The Merde Factor seemed to be a make-it-up-as-you-go-along book and was just plain boring.

it was only OK

Never disappoints

good ol' Paul West.. can we have more??

A very distorted unfair picture of the Parisian French. The title should be just "Merde". Spending much time in Paris over an eleven year period, I found the Parisians to be helpful, kind and understanding. Mr. Clark's picture is not a caricature but is an absolute distortion of the true state of the true Picture of Parisians.

I tend to agree with other opinions expressed about number 5 in the Merde series not being quite as good as 1-4. But that doesn't mean this isn't an enjoyable book, on the contrary, it just means we've been spoilt by the sublime story-telling, comedy and observations of the earlier books. Rest assured that all the familiar elements of those novels are still there, but perhaps with a little less punch.So, as brilliant as the earlier books? No. Still a fun read? Absolutely. Hence 4 stars.

I love this entire series of books. Having been to France at least once a year for my whole life these books are so accurate! They are honestly hilarious. I would suggest reading them on a beach in France to get the full effect!

This latest addition did not disappoint - it's just as witty and funny as ever. For me, the x-factor is that it's so observant as to how funny human nature and people can be. I'm truly a great fan of Stephen Clarke- having pre-ordered it and cannot wait for the next installation of Paul West adventures... surely he'll have to bite the bullet and get married!!!

Just what you expect from the author a satirical and genuine comment on French (Parisian) life.Stephen Clarke prises open even more French society in his usual and welcome comedic fashion. In other words its a bloody funny dig at the French, and they accuse the British of being stuck up!

Paul West's further adventures were truly enjoyable. Whilst maybe not quite as fast moving or chaotic as previous adventures the move back to Paris and the concentration on the key themes from the first book made this an easy read with some laugh out loud moment.