Jessica Stanley's Consider Yourself Kissed is a poignant exploration of love, identity, and the inevitable complexities that life throws our way. At its core, the novel is a tender yet incisive examination of how personal aspirations and familial responsibilities can sometimes be at odds, creating a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever felt torn between the life they have and the life they once envisioned.

The story begins with Coralie, a newcomer to London, who finds herself captivated by Adam, a man whose intelligence and wit are as compelling as his claim to be a quarter inch taller than the average male. Their relationship is further enriched by Adam's charming four-year-old daughter, who adds a layer of warmth and complexity to their budding romance. This initial setup is both endearing and relatable, drawing readers into a world where love seems to promise a solution to life's uncertainties.

However, as the narrative unfolds over a decade, Stanley skillfully peels back the layers of Coralie and Adam's relationship, revealing the subtle yet profound shifts that occur over time. The passage of ten years is not just a backdrop but a character in itself, influencing and shaping the lives of the protagonists in ways both expected and surprising. The novel's strength lies in its ability to capture these nuances, illustrating how the passage of time can simultaneously fulfill and erode dreams.

Coralie's journey is particularly compelling. Initially portrayed as a woman who has seemingly achieved everything she desired, the narrative gradually reveals her growing sense of disconnection from her own identity. This theme of self-discovery and the quest for personal fulfillment is handled with sensitivity and depth, making Coralie's struggles both authentic and relatable. Her character arc is a testament to Stanley's ability to craft multi-dimensional characters who evolve in response to their circumstances.

Adam, too, is a well-drawn character, whose charm and wit are balanced by his own vulnerabilities and challenges. His relationship with his daughter adds a layer of complexity to his character, highlighting the delicate balance between personal desires and parental responsibilities. The dynamic between Adam and Coralie is both realistic and engaging, capturing the ebb and flow of a long-term relationship with all its joys and challenges.

One of the novel's most striking features is its ability to weave personal and public dramas seamlessly. Set against the backdrop of an eventful decade, Consider Yourself Kissed reflects on how external events can impact personal lives, often in unexpected ways. This interplay between the personal and the public adds depth to the narrative, making it not just a story of love and family, but also a reflection on the broader human experience.

Stanley's writing is characterized by its balance of sweetness and bite, humor and heart. Her prose is both engaging and insightful, capturing the complexities of human relationships with a deft touch. The novel's humor is particularly noteworthy, providing moments of levity that enhance rather than detract from the emotional depth of the story. This balance is reminiscent of works by authors like Jojo Moyes and Liane Moriarty, who similarly excel at blending humor with poignant storytelling.

In comparison to similar narratives, Consider Yourself Kissed stands out for its nuanced portrayal of a woman's journey towards self-discovery amidst the demands of family life. While it shares thematic elements with novels like Me Before You by Jojo Moyes, which also explores the tension between personal desires and familial obligations, Stanley's novel offers a unique perspective by focusing on the gradual evolution of a long-term relationship over a significant period.

Overall, Consider Yourself Kissed is a beautifully crafted novel that offers a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences. It is a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with the complexities of love, identity, and the passage of time. Stanley's ability to capture the intricacies of human relationships with humor and heart makes this a compelling read that lingers long after the final page is turned.

In conclusion, Jessica Stanley has delivered a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering readers a chance to reflect on their own lives and relationships. Consider Yourself Kissed is a testament to the enduring power of love and the importance of staying true to oneself, even when life seems determined to get in the way.