So here is yet another series where the people in question have done a good job making this series really episodic. No particular arch lasts more than four episodes and there are plenty of little side quests in between. I almost feel like I am playing an RPG. You know you do a main quest, then power level with side quests. Not to mention the fact that there is plenty of actual lore involved with this series as well. It all fits nicely under an umbrella of a story.

There is a nice ambient continuing story in this series. However, in this case the story is secondary. It is there for those who care, but it is not shoved down my throat like other series. The plot of gathering up these forbidden books and capturing them or destroying them or passing them out among the people is a really interesting concept. There are a lot of directions you can go with that kind of plot. Few shows that end up being episodic are that intelligent. Plus you add in the actual history and you have a really good show.
Yes there are actual books that exist in this world. Plus unlike in real life, they are actually magical books that do magical bad stuff. Yes the evil darkness that must be sealed... or released or... well really whatever you want.

To be honest I am not really a fan of this style of anime. The whole Victorian thing is a bit stupid in my opinion. Really it is just an excuse to allow girls to wear big obnoxious dresses. However, this series is worth a look. You never know you might actually like it.