Ready Player One

If you are trying to figure out whether to read this book or not, you should probably read someone else's review. This book was written precisely for me. Not only am I a high-brow, science-fiction futurologist, virtual world, romantic comedy is my favourite subgenre.
Obviously, I loved the book. In fact, I enjoyed it so much and consumed it so rapidly, that I cannot be sure how good it actually is.
The setting is clever and complete.
The conflict is established early and the plot flows well throughout the novel.
The only thing that might put people off is all the 80s references. Sure, it might be fun to see which ones you know, but it can get old. Was not really a problem for me, but wanted you to keep it in mind.

Anyway, this is likely the best non-graphic, virtual world novel written. I have not read Sword Art Online, but it is a light novel (and thus expensive).
Get ready...