When I received this (in ebook format) from the Early Reviewer Giveaway, I didn't realize it was about British etiquette. That actually made it more interesting for me! Always amusing learning how our cousins on the other side of the pond do things.

The book is really a lot of fun, very informative and very amusing at the same time.

I was disappointed with my first book in the Bluffer's series (Rock Music), but I enjoyed this one and I think the reason why is my lack of knowledge around this topic. With Rock, the humor didn't come off quite right, but it works here as the author, with an obvious passion for his topic, is still able to poke fun and it and the people who want to practice proper etiquette to climb the social ladder in England. ( )

Having found earlier ‘Bluffer’s Guides’ very useful summaries I was pleased to receive an Early Reviewer’s copy of The Bluffer’s Guide to Etiquette. As is usual in the Bluffer’s Guides the tone is lightly humorous and easy to read. Although in many ways (most) people are probably rather more laid-back about formal etiquette, as the guide points out manners and etiquette are very closely related and it is useful (both for your own comfort and that of your hosts) to have a good idea of what might be expected of you in more formal circumstances. The guide covers a variety of topics including speaking, handshakes and social kissing, eating, dress codes, behaviour at christenings/weddings/funerals and even has chapters on the Season and royalty in case you find yourself needing them. It is written with Brits in mind, though also mentions American habits (often blaming them for bad habits that have crept in!). I found quite a few things that I instinctively knew – though it was interesting to know the reasoning behind them – but also learnt new things too. Whether I ever make use of them remains to be seen, but at least I now know where to look if I need guidance not to completely put my foot in it! ( )

Written tongue-in-cheek, William Hanson's guide to the Upstairs, Downstairs scene is a light read with some interesting tidbits. While his guidance is concrete and specific, it seems only relevant to people trying to bluff their way up a social ladder that's been rotting in a shed for years. ( )

Having read and really enjoyed Bluffer's Guide to Football, I found Etiquette a bit of a let down. I might have enjoyed this book more if it had been the first of the Bluffer's series I'd read. It's not as sharply written or as witty, and though I believe most of the advice is accurate, some of the suggested anecdotes (like the shaking hands one) are complete myths, and are very unlikely to impress anyone. ( )