Lee Stuart Evans at Bromley House

You can catch Lee Stuart Evans at Bromley House Library, Angel Row, Nottingham NG1 6HL on November 23^rd at 6pm. He’ll be talking about his latest release Pleasantly Disturbed, his writing inspirations and his influences.

Link to book your place There will be a bar. If you have any questions about this event please contact the library on 01159 473134 or e-mail enquiries@bromleyhouse.org

Lee’s latest novel Pleasantly Disturbed is a comedic coming-of-age mystery and love story, set against the backdrop of the East Midlands in the 1980s. His debut novel, Words Best Sung (2017), showcased his knack for blending humour with heartfelt storytelling. There’s more jinx and reminiscing to be had in his new book, a story of teenage kicks and how music can help a turbulent time make sense.

Robin, a cheeky teenager from a Nottinghamshire mining town, fancies himself the next Jim Kerr of Simple Minds. The catch? He can’t sing, unlike his girlfriend, Fliss, a more reluctant musical prodigy with the voice of Kate Bush.

While Robin's busy dreaming of stardom working at a local garage, Fliss auditions for a TV talent show. Meanwhile, Robin’s eccentric colleague Vern, who’s read one too many Maigret novels, ropes him into investigating a series of car thefts linked to a old railway station near Sherwood Forest. Things take a turn for the worse when Robin and Fliss are dragged into a police investigation.

Lee has penned another nostalgic, feel-good novel that captures the essence of 1980s Midlands life. Robin and Fliss are endearing, and their struggles and ambitions are touching and funny. Robin’s delusions of grandeur and lack of talent are a perfect foil to Fliss’s quiet brilliance, while the witty dialogue, vivid descriptions, and the transformative power of music, accompany the exploration of teenage dreams and young love, while also delving into the odd darker theme.

Fans of 1980s music will love the cultural references and Jim Kerr fandom, and there’s local mentions galore - Nottingham Forest, Cresswell Craggs, Wellbeck etc. etc. But if you not from Notts, or have no fondness for Simple Minds or ‘80s’ music, you’ll still be charmed by the novel’s humour, warmth, and engaging plot. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an entertaining read that balances nostalgia, humour, and warmth. It’s also pleasantly unpredictable.

About the Author

Lee Stuart Evans, raised in north Notts, is a BAFTA-nominated comedy writer with over two decades of experience. He’s worked with some of the UK’s top comedians, including Sean Lock, Harry Hill, and Jimmy Carr.