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Few romantic novels intertwine significant political events like Brexit, Boris Johnson’s ICU stay, and the infamous “Edstone.” In contrast, Jessica Stanley’s debut novel, Consider Yourself Kissed, artfully weaves these elements, presenting a story that oscillates between romance and politics. This engaging narrative offers a treasure trove of insight for readers with specific literary tastes.
The story begins with an unconventional meet-cute: Coralie, a young Australian copywriter, and Adam, a devoted single father, swap homes for just one night. Readers are introduced to Adam, who bears a striking resemblance to a younger Colin Firth, while Coralie yearns for him to liken her to Elizabeth Bennet, a compliment she recalls fondly from her school days. As Coralie explores Adam’s neatly organized bookshelf filled with political biographies, including those of Australian figures, she sits amidst her own collection of Virago Press books. This literary connection propels their romance, igniting a bond that feels almost instantaneous. Any reader familiar with the significance of those green book spines will appreciate the depth of Coralie’s character and, by extension, the novel itself. For those who resonate with this setup, enchantment is inevitable by the third chapter.
This novel speaks to individuals who share Coralie’s affection for the works of Nancy Mitford, the Cazalet Chronicles, and The Line of Beauty. Stanley’s inspirations shine through, almost making her book a homage. The witty, brisk prose and the meticulous depiction of an upper middle-class milieu reveal her talent. The intricate family dynamics and the significance of everyday objects are reminiscent of Elizabeth Jane Howard’s storytelling style. For example, Stanley’s vivid descriptions, including the contents of Adam’s daughter’s backpack, encapsulate a specific moment in time: “Five pens, two notebooks, a little skateboard… a fawn soft toy dog with enormous eyes.” Just as Alan Hollinghurst captured the essence of a wedding-cake pile in Notting Hill, Stanley crafts a compelling narrative within a terrace house in Hackney, reflecting life in contemporary London.
At its core, Consider Yourself Kissed delves into the quest for a better world, both on personal and global scales. However, beneath the charm of this privileged existence, fissures emerge that resonate universally. The complexity of Adam and Coralie’s relationship raises questions about fairness and roles within partnerships. Adam is driven by a desire for success, and while he responds to Coralie’s calls for change and humor, the implications of their shared domestic space come to the fore—particularly when Coralie retreats to what was once the spare room, now Adam’s study. This reflects a often-ignored reality: in households with one spare room, the workspace often defaults to the man, leaving women to carve out their space elsewhere.
Coralie, aware of these dynamics through her literary experiences, finds herself grappling with the dissonance of her own life. She questions, “How could the world… be made fair, when two people who loved each other couldn’t even manage a life?” This inherent struggle underscores the novel’s exploration of both global and domestic realms, suggesting a profound connection between the two domains.
Stanley exhibits a keen interest in global issues, evident from her previous novel revolving around a cabinet minister’s death. However, this focus on contemporary politics can interrupt the narrative flow for some readers. Sentences referencing events from 2020 may feel more instructional than enjoyable, reminiscent of the discomfort surrounding topics like Brexit, which Adam references. Nevertheless, the grounded setting enhances the understanding that for these characters—and perhaps all of us—personal and political realms are intricately intertwined. The reflection on making the world a better place pivots the narrative, positioning Consider Yourself Kissed as more than just a romance or a political narrative; it stands as a particularly humane story.
Consider Yourself Kissed by Jessica Stanley is available from Hutchinson Heinemann (£16.99). For further insights into books and author interviews, visit guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply.
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www.theguardian.com