‘New Book Reviews’

My first novel ‘A Love of Ions’ was published by Austin Macauley in April 2025. It’s romantic fiction and follows the story of two ardent research scientists in the 1960s who are brought together by an intriguing government project. Over the past few months it’s been great fun to introduce the book to my friends and family. There was a little surprise at first but now everyone is getting used to my love of romantic fiction and I’m pleased to say some have taken up the challenge and read it with one or two reviews starting to appear.

Rachel Phipp writes ‘An ambitious mix of romance and science – we need more of these! The narrative rolls along, nicely alternating between the two well-rounded and believable main characters, each with their own identifiable voice. Paul and Kay are individually amiable whilst their relationship realistically weaves through the explicit and the unspoken. There are a lot of other characters too, some introduced, named and titled for a specific scene or situation. Due to the changing narrator, we’re never sure how invested to become in these secondary characters which can leave the reader feeling a little frustrated. There are multiple locations too, again sometimes more specific than necessary but some readers will enjoy the detail. Sometimes the language is a little clunky and the dialogue is a little abrupt, but the inner monologues and mannerisms of the main characters are described with integrity. Chapman chronicles fashions, vehicles and social behaviours of the time with a jolly familiarity that makes us stay the course, through the not-too-heavy science jargon. The book also offers a sprinkling of 1960s and 70s social history, referencing key national and international events as the protagonists’ profession is subject to the policies and pockets of changing governments who are themselves responding to the changing needs of their populations. A solid story from a budding new writer – I look forward to their next one.’

Catherine Dixon writes ‘This is not the type of novel I’d normally be drawn to, but as I have a great love of the 1960’s and for something a bit different, I thought I’d give it a go. Don’t be put off by the scientific detail. It is there to set the scene and is done very well. Luckily, the reader doesn’t need to be a research scientist to enjoy this slow-burning love story. I really enjoyed the descriptions of Kay’s fashion choices and that both Paul & Kay shared a love of dancing. It’s a traditional book in so many ways, and this makes it stand out from the crowd. But don’t take my word for it; buy a copy and decide for yourself.

As the photo shows it was lovely to present my book to Catherine during a visit to my favourite museum, the V&A in London during May. The V&A’s impeccable ‘haut couture’ exhibitions featuring Christian Dior and Coco Chanel have been an inspiration for my descriptions of the outfits for my leading ladies in a ‘A Love of Ions’ over the years.  

I’m hoping to meet up with Rachel before the summer is out to discuss all things romantic fiction and to hear some further comments from her reading of my book.  Till then, hope you enjoy ‘A love of Ions’ and I welcome your reviews which can be published on my publisher’s website at https://www.austinmacauley.com/book/a-love-of-ions

Brian Chapman - August 2025. 

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