Reviews for And Then He Kissed Me

Cool Britannia. Mods in love.

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And Then He Kissed Me is the giddy, glorious story of two young men who fall in love amid a time of sweeping social change - even as that love was still illegal.

Posh public school boy Eric had been exiled to a minor management position in the Ford factory after an incident his father wants forgotten. I loved this sweet man with his stylish suits, vast record collection, posh voice, and desire to just be himself.

When one of the movers invites him to join his friends for a pint, he impulsively agrees. At The Cherry Tree he meets a group that will quickly become his friends - and Tommy Kent.

Tommy Kent. Brooding working class boy. Mod. Public library lover. He left school at 15 to support his family and works the floor at the Ford factory. Bonding over their shared love of music - there’s a fun scene where The Who (Who?) plays a local club - there’s no denying their attraction.

Even though both are in their early 20s, there’s a sheltered innocence about them. Eric had a bullying, overbearing father and Tommy still lived at home. Watching them fumble and figure things out is sweet and awkward and sexy.

A lot happens, and I’m not going to spoil the plot, but it’s so good!
I loved Tommy’s family. His quirky twin brothers are adorable.
Given the era, I was worried if they would get their HEA, but how they got there was lovely. What the author does in the epilogue is amazing!

There’s a wonderfully cinematic edge to vignettes like shopping on Carnaby Street, a scooter ride to Brighton, sneaking friends in past nosy neighbors, and a road trip rescue. A tiny bit Quadrophenia. A dash of Made in Degenham. And a totally original new voice. A great debut!