A review by jupiter2932
Eight Acts by A.L. Lester

5.0

Another solid historical novella by A.L. Lester.

Set in 1967, right after the repeal of the laws making homosexual activity illegal in England, this story follows Percy and Adrian, who were mentioned in Lester's novel Taking Stock. Percy's a teacher at a boarding school who, with a friend of his, is taking opportunity of some summer teaching to live in London for a few weeks.

Anyway, neither Percy nor Adrian are looking for a serious relationship, but they end up falling into something like one in the few weeks they spend together. They're both at similar stages in their lives, and watching their surprise at discovering how compatible they are, during their first date and beyond, is sweet.

The plot of this novella also includes some homophobia and violence (though not involving the two main characters). It was an interesting window into England at this time, and you can tell it's been well-researched, despite the length restraints.

It's honestly difficult to get into any more detail than this without spoiling things, but I would really recommend this if you like historical M/M. Like all of Lester's other work, it's got a gentle quality to it; the romance is fairly low angst, and Percy and Adrian get along well from the start. The romance is sweet, but there isn't tons of will they-won't they, and the biggest barriers to a happy ending are societal rather than personal. But it's another lovely story populated by characters who are good human beings, and I would absolutely recommend it.