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It's a Love Story
'From Wham! to Spandau Ballet, from success to chaos in the blink of an eye – Martin and I are two ordinary people who have been on an extraordinary adventure together. Through it all, our commitment to each other and to our family is what has always mattered the most.' Shirlie Kemp
IT'S A LOVE STORY tells the incredible story of Martin and Shirlie Kemp – from the moment they set eyes on each other, through their stellar careers, to raising a family together.
For the first time, fans and readers will have an insight into their journey together, the lessons they have learned in the spotlight and behind the scenes, and their secrets to success, happiness and raising a loving family. The book will uncover the personal highs and lows of Britain's favourite couple, and the unbreakable bond that has kept them strong, no matter how hard the fight gets.
'40 years together has been filled with incredible highs, when every teenage dream and every wish literally came true, to the most horrifying of lows that belonged in our nightmares. Shirlie and I are always asked, "What's the secret to a long marriage?" – well, hopefully within the pages of this book we all might find the answer to that question!' Martin Kemp
IT'S A LOVE STORY tells the incredible story of Martin and Shirlie Kemp – from the moment they set eyes on each other, through their stellar careers, to raising a family together.
For the first time, fans and readers will have an insight into their journey together, the lessons they have learned in the spotlight and behind the scenes, and their secrets to success, happiness and raising a loving family. The book will uncover the personal highs and lows of Britain's favourite couple, and the unbreakable bond that has kept them strong, no matter how hard the fight gets.
'40 years together has been filled with incredible highs, when every teenage dream and every wish literally came true, to the most horrifying of lows that belonged in our nightmares. Shirlie and I are always asked, "What's the secret to a long marriage?" – well, hopefully within the pages of this book we all might find the answer to that question!' Martin Kemp
352 pages, Hardcover
Published October 29, 2020
58 people are currently reading
310 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
November 1, 2020
Fantastic could not put the book down . Went through a the emotions with them could relate to Martin and shirlie it just shows no matter what background you come from you can achieve your dream .my heart went out to shirlie when she found out about George Michael s passing it must of been hard for her to write this chapter and the chapter about Martin s illness . This book shows they are just down to earth and loving parents to their children
November 7, 2020
As a Wham fan and Spandau fan (although I preferred Duran Duran- sorry Martin!) anyone growing up in the 80’s will enjoy this. Stories of how Shirlie and Martin met and their lives together are interesting and I love the relationship Shirlie had with George Michael. Beware, there are some sad stories though and despite being 2 pop stars there are struggles along the way. Recommended.
November 14, 2020
If you loved Spandau Ballet and Wham in the 80’s you’ll love this. A proper love story which is just heartwarming.
December 17, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! I used to be a massive Wham fan which Shirlie tells all about her life in Wham and then as part of the duo, Pepsi and Shirlie. But obviously the main theme of this book is how she met Martin and the life they have shared together whilst still pursuing their music careers.
It’s a proper “love at first sight” story from both their point of views and they are such a lovely, loving couple who have shared their ups and downs. It’s evidently clear that these two were destined to be together.
I’m so pleased the two of them also narrated this book as it really captures what they have been through.
It’s a proper “love at first sight” story from both their point of views and they are such a lovely, loving couple who have shared their ups and downs. It’s evidently clear that these two were destined to be together.
I’m so pleased the two of them also narrated this book as it really captures what they have been through.
February 12, 2022
I listened to the audio book, which Shirlie and Martin narrated. Shirlie talks about her Wham! days and her friendships with George, Andrew and Pepsi, whilst Martin explains how he joined Spandau Ballet. Being an 80s girl, I loved listening to both their stories. They go on to talk about Martin’s acting career, his brain tumours and having children. Throughout the book it is clear to see the close friendship they both had with George who was so generous with them in more ways than one. Shirlie also talks about the morning she was informed of George’s death. Although this book details their life stories it is predominantly a book about being in love with each other and having found their soul mate.
December 20, 2020
Incredibly delightful. It was really cool to read about their 80s pop star careers. I loved their music. The other decades of their lives were very interesting to read about. Then, surprisingly, they talked about something I am going through right now. Martin's message of hope rang through easing the fear. So, it was a very timely read. Fun, enjoyable, nostalgic, and reassuring.
June 27, 2021
Read in a day, thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this journey with Martin & Shirlie.
Whilst they appear a relatively private couple this book shared their highs & lows as a couple & a family & i devoured it! Thank you ❤️
Whilst they appear a relatively private couple this book shared their highs & lows as a couple & a family & i devoured it! Thank you ❤️
December 30, 2020
Superb biography, I love both of them and this was so well written and interesting, loved it
July 5, 2021
Wow, what an amazing story of two people and how there love stayed strong throughout the ups and downs of their lives. Didn’t want the book to end.
April 15, 2023
If you were a Wham! fan or a Spandau Ballet fan (or both) in the 80s then this is a must read. I actually listened to this book on audible but won't rule out actually buying in paperback.
This book was read by the authors themselves which I think made it a much better listen. They talk with passion and we hear each others thoughts on events.
It was about their love story (which I thought was a great idea for a book), how they met (we all know that story don't we?) and all the trials and tribulations that they faced that gets them to where they are today.
I was a bit dubious about getting this book because did I want to know all about Martin (Spandau's bassist) and Shirlie's (George's back up) love story even though we grew up knowing about them and watching them grow and develop their family? There is more in there than I did not know about or maybe I just missed it in the newspapers.
Overall a great listen, well written and highly recommended.
This book was read by the authors themselves which I think made it a much better listen. They talk with passion and we hear each others thoughts on events.
It was about their love story (which I thought was a great idea for a book), how they met (we all know that story don't we?) and all the trials and tribulations that they faced that gets them to where they are today.
I was a bit dubious about getting this book because did I want to know all about Martin (Spandau's bassist) and Shirlie's (George's back up) love story even though we grew up knowing about them and watching them grow and develop their family? There is more in there than I did not know about or maybe I just missed it in the newspapers.
Overall a great listen, well written and highly recommended.
September 15, 2023
So sweet to know these young lovers could make it through the troubles life tossed at them and their love matured as they age. I got this not realizing who she was but I knew who he was! I thought it was a nice flashback of their life and made me think what I was doing during those same time periods.
January 5, 2025
I listened to the audio book which Martin and Shirlie narrated. Although they talk about the 80s and their careers in Wham and Spandau it's clear this book is what it says on the tin, A love story. Its mainly about how they feel for each other and how their marriage has stood the test of time throughout illness, bankruptcy and time apart when on tour. The description of their relationship is a little sickly sweet at times but nevertheless I did enjoy the book. 3.5 stars
January 16, 2022
Audiobook. Easy listen.
December 31, 2020
As a massive wham and Spandau ballet fan I just knew I would love this book. It was honest, happy sad and every thing in between. What an amazing grounded couple
November 18, 2024
Audiobook: only just a four because it was a bit soppy!
Thinking about this it’s actually well
Written and read by Martin and Shirley Kemp giving an insight into how they met and their lives together.
I felt old as they kept saying “back then”….no phone calls or video chat!
However they seem like lovely people and read from the heart.
Thinking about this it’s actually well
Written and read by Martin and Shirley Kemp giving an insight into how they met and their lives together.
I felt old as they kept saying “back then”….no phone calls or video chat!
However they seem like lovely people and read from the heart.
April 25, 2022
Oh my, I so enjoyed this book. I grew up alongside the Kemps and their respective music and loved those times. OK, the dedication had me howling, of course.....but although there was of course some sadness, most of it is uplifting, full of tremendous memories and an insight into one of THE most successful partnerships in "celeb-land". They've both always come across as lovely people and by dint of the fact that Noel Fitzpatrick penned the foreword we know that of course they're also doggy people, so really ? What's not to like ?
Some things I hadn't known.....like Steve Strange being in a band with Chrissie Hynde, or that The Blitz Club only lasted a year. I thought it was around for a decade at least. It just goes to show the reach it had. I recall the hype around Wham! in China...but the experience sounds like the stuff of nightmares and wouldn't ever be a place I want to head to.
I got a kick out of Martin's dream about the trophy and his encounters of the supernatural kind....fascinating stuff. Love what Shirlie said about George heralding Christmas for so many. For me, it was with December Song, which always made me sob BEFORE we lost him and the beautiful Last Christmas now always upsets me as well, of course, despite it being a huge favourite of mine nonetheless. It just wasn't 'right' that he died then....so unfair.
I did spot a couple of mistakes that someone ought to have picked up to ensure it was perfect...this line gained a needless 'was'...."but I think that was this is what bonded us for life." Mike Leigh was mentioned but then as Mike Lee but a real howler was when Shirlie mentions her 2-year old self making the Wham! video....should've been 22 !
It does tend to jump about a bit with timings and then skipped over a lot of years altogether. We never really spent much time with them as young parents at all or hear much about Martin's time at Eastenders, back when it was properly riveting watching. I see reviewers complaining that it's all a bit too lovey-dovey but the clue's in the title, folks. What did you expect to be reading about ? It was nice and these days it makes a really pleasant change to have some "niceness" in our lives. The fact people feel the need to complain about this tells us all we need to know about the state of the human race !!
Interesting that Shirlie writes about her parents never telling their kids they love them. Mine never did, either. You just didn't in those times.
I got a kick out of Martin still being the boy on the cover of a magazine for her, even now, and also her secret to a good marriage. I'm not married but think that's the best idea anyway.....everyone needs a dog in their life !! This passage I loved as well, "If your children are some of your favourite people to spend time with, you've done a great job." I think that is super and both their kids have grown into lovely people as well.
Martin falling for Shirlie after seeing her on TOTP reminded me of David Beckham falling for Victoria after seeing her on that as well, though in a video. And they're another success story so they had some sort of Cupid knocking about somewhere !!
I have really enjoyed my trip back in time with this book with two extremely likeable people indeed.
And belated birthday greetings, Shirlie...I see you just had a milestone day......wow !! I can't believe that !
Some things I hadn't known.....like Steve Strange being in a band with Chrissie Hynde, or that The Blitz Club only lasted a year. I thought it was around for a decade at least. It just goes to show the reach it had. I recall the hype around Wham! in China...but the experience sounds like the stuff of nightmares and wouldn't ever be a place I want to head to.
I got a kick out of Martin's dream about the trophy and his encounters of the supernatural kind....fascinating stuff. Love what Shirlie said about George heralding Christmas for so many. For me, it was with December Song, which always made me sob BEFORE we lost him and the beautiful Last Christmas now always upsets me as well, of course, despite it being a huge favourite of mine nonetheless. It just wasn't 'right' that he died then....so unfair.
I did spot a couple of mistakes that someone ought to have picked up to ensure it was perfect...this line gained a needless 'was'...."but I think that was this is what bonded us for life." Mike Leigh was mentioned but then as Mike Lee but a real howler was when Shirlie mentions her 2-year old self making the Wham! video....should've been 22 !
It does tend to jump about a bit with timings and then skipped over a lot of years altogether. We never really spent much time with them as young parents at all or hear much about Martin's time at Eastenders, back when it was properly riveting watching. I see reviewers complaining that it's all a bit too lovey-dovey but the clue's in the title, folks. What did you expect to be reading about ? It was nice and these days it makes a really pleasant change to have some "niceness" in our lives. The fact people feel the need to complain about this tells us all we need to know about the state of the human race !!
Interesting that Shirlie writes about her parents never telling their kids they love them. Mine never did, either. You just didn't in those times.
I got a kick out of Martin still being the boy on the cover of a magazine for her, even now, and also her secret to a good marriage. I'm not married but think that's the best idea anyway.....everyone needs a dog in their life !! This passage I loved as well, "If your children are some of your favourite people to spend time with, you've done a great job." I think that is super and both their kids have grown into lovely people as well.
Martin falling for Shirlie after seeing her on TOTP reminded me of David Beckham falling for Victoria after seeing her on that as well, though in a video. And they're another success story so they had some sort of Cupid knocking about somewhere !!
I have really enjoyed my trip back in time with this book with two extremely likeable people indeed.
And belated birthday greetings, Shirlie...I see you just had a milestone day......wow !! I can't believe that !
December 18, 2021
Being a Spandau and Wham fan and having read a previous autobiography of Martin’s I looked forward to this book. I listened to it on audible and both Martin and Shirley are good narrators.
What did I like - the background/history of their childhood, passage to fame and meeting. There’s so much to like about this couples relationship and their profound love for each other is verbalised over the years and remains constant.
Who wouldn’t want a ‘Martin’ to talk about you the way he talks about Shirley and vice versus? In fairness they had a rocky ride with her endometriosis, his brain tumours, her bankruptcy and him not being able to earn a living for years.
This is where it gets harder.
What didn’t I like - to be honest there were times the love got a bit nauseous. Shirley, be honest, was there never a time Martin Kemp snored so loud you wanted to put a pillow over his face and smother him?
Seriously there is not a negative emotion or thought between the pair of them and I find that unreal.
The bankruptcy? The lack of earnings? All the details,of these issues were pretty much glossed over with the overwhelming love that gushes between the couple.
So in summary a fair read, I did enjoy it, I did envy Shirley at times but if I interviewed them I would have pushed them for more of the practical details of life.
What did I like - the background/history of their childhood, passage to fame and meeting. There’s so much to like about this couples relationship and their profound love for each other is verbalised over the years and remains constant.
Who wouldn’t want a ‘Martin’ to talk about you the way he talks about Shirley and vice versus? In fairness they had a rocky ride with her endometriosis, his brain tumours, her bankruptcy and him not being able to earn a living for years.
This is where it gets harder.
What didn’t I like - to be honest there were times the love got a bit nauseous. Shirley, be honest, was there never a time Martin Kemp snored so loud you wanted to put a pillow over his face and smother him?
Seriously there is not a negative emotion or thought between the pair of them and I find that unreal.
The bankruptcy? The lack of earnings? All the details,of these issues were pretty much glossed over with the overwhelming love that gushes between the couple.
So in summary a fair read, I did enjoy it, I did envy Shirley at times but if I interviewed them I would have pushed them for more of the practical details of life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2021
I’ve had this book for a year and with yet another anniversary of the loss of George Michael I thought I’d make some time to pick it up and have a read. Whilst there are certainly lots of references to George in the book, since his life was inextricably bound to Shirley and Martin from the 80’s, this is a book about the ongoing live affair of a famous but clearly grounded couple. It’s very relatable in some ways but very hard to understand in others (jumping on planes to meet up in countries half way between the two, moving the family to LA and being in two of the hottest bands of their time). It’s honest, poignant, inspiring and heart warming. These two clearly have a very special relationship and don’t take anything for granted. This is an easy read, with brief explanations included for those not of the era. For me it was nostalgic, and I loved the photos included in two sections. This isn’t a technical, detailed read but a very pure account of a couples lives and love. My favourite parts have to be the accounts of the early mega pop years, having children, Shirley’s time in China (astonishing and shocking), martin’s illness and Shirley’s outlets and the penultimate chapter recounting the loss of their great friend.
April 17, 2023
It’s a love story
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have been a big fan of the Kemp’s for a while now and after a quick google after seeing Martin and his son Roman on Gogglebox UK I decide that I simply had to read this book! I went with the audiobook because Shirlie and Martin narrated it themselves and it was just phenomenal.
Wham!, Spandau Ballet, brain tumours, car accidents, bankruptcy and fame- this book really did have it all. It’s a love story was so well written and I just wanted more and more, after I finished the audiobook I found myself missing them a bit, Martin and Shirlie have kept me company on car journeys and dog walks, it felt like we were friends.
A big character of this book was of course, George Michael who was their best friend. I don’t think I have ever connected with a public figure so much in grief than when I heard Shirlie talking about losing George. It actually triggered my grief and I was walking home bawling my eyes out, I felt everything she was saying because I went through it with my dad and it put me right back there- what a sign of a great writer!
I loved this book and can definitely see myself reading it again and I never do that.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have been a big fan of the Kemp’s for a while now and after a quick google after seeing Martin and his son Roman on Gogglebox UK I decide that I simply had to read this book! I went with the audiobook because Shirlie and Martin narrated it themselves and it was just phenomenal.
Wham!, Spandau Ballet, brain tumours, car accidents, bankruptcy and fame- this book really did have it all. It’s a love story was so well written and I just wanted more and more, after I finished the audiobook I found myself missing them a bit, Martin and Shirlie have kept me company on car journeys and dog walks, it felt like we were friends.
A big character of this book was of course, George Michael who was their best friend. I don’t think I have ever connected with a public figure so much in grief than when I heard Shirlie talking about losing George. It actually triggered my grief and I was walking home bawling my eyes out, I felt everything she was saying because I went through it with my dad and it put me right back there- what a sign of a great writer!
I loved this book and can definitely see myself reading it again and I never do that.
March 31, 2023
I loved Spandau Ballet and Wham, so I know who Martin and Shirlie are and I was really interested to read about their romance. Individually they seem to be great people, but OMG, as a couple they are amazing. They come across as soul mates and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their lives together. I learned so many things about them and the bands they were in. Do you remember the film Wham in China? After you read what Shirlie has to say about the tour you won't be able to watch it again. I know I won't.
Martin and Shirlie have had fascinating lives and this book was definitely one that even people who aren't fans of theirs would still enjoy.
Did you know that they released an album together? I didn't, but a quick look online, and I found and bought it. If you like Swing and you like Martin and Shirlie, I wouldn't be surprised if, like me, you end up buying the album after you read the book!!
Martin and Shirlie have had fascinating lives and this book was definitely one that even people who aren't fans of theirs would still enjoy.
Did you know that they released an album together? I didn't, but a quick look online, and I found and bought it. If you like Swing and you like Martin and Shirlie, I wouldn't be surprised if, like me, you end up buying the album after you read the book!!
January 4, 2021
This is written in two voices, alternate chapters by Martin/Shirlie. There is a plenty of interesting stuff about the start of both their entertainment careers, good to read if you were a similar age in the 1980's, remember admiring the pop stars of the day. (Funniest line has to be from Steve Strange, manning the door of a nightclub - 'would you let me in if I looked like you?' ).
However, you need to be aware of the actual title of this book - It's a Love Story. It isn't a book just about their careers, their ups and downs during it, the move of Martin in particular from music star to soap star. The overall tone is that they met, fell in love and stayed in love.
If you were hoping for more of an autobiography you may think there is a lot missing.
However, you need to be aware of the actual title of this book - It's a Love Story. It isn't a book just about their careers, their ups and downs during it, the move of Martin in particular from music star to soap star. The overall tone is that they met, fell in love and stayed in love.
If you were hoping for more of an autobiography you may think there is a lot missing.
February 13, 2022
Autobiography from both Shirlie & Martin Kemp detailing their lives from both sides, plus there's 'behind-the-scenes' information on what is was like being the backing dancer & singer for Wham! from Shirlie. Their love for each other really shines through, & I hadn't realised just how tough things had been when Martin developed a brain tumour.
There's plenty to make the reader smile, but the book also bring tears to your eyes when talking about the unexpected death of George Michael in 2016. It's a fantastic nostalgic read if you are old enough to remember Wham!, Spandau Ballet, & Martin's role as Steve Owen in Eastenders. I loved it!
There's plenty to make the reader smile, but the book also bring tears to your eyes when talking about the unexpected death of George Michael in 2016. It's a fantastic nostalgic read if you are old enough to remember Wham!, Spandau Ballet, & Martin's role as Steve Owen in Eastenders. I loved it!
October 30, 2025
Confession: I came to this memoir because of a video clip of their son talking about George Michael.
I love George Michael.
Now, having listened to their memoir, I know who both of them are, on sight, but not by name. I've seen Martin on many a tv program and of course Spandau Ballet. Shirlie, I knew from Wham! videos and more so via the documentary about Wham!
The entertainment value of the book was there based on the who these two are, but I got so much more from this than that.
They're both celebrities of varying caliber but knowing they faced bankruptcy, major health issues, and many more things us Plebeians go through brought more humanity to the world of celebrity.
I love George Michael.
Now, having listened to their memoir, I know who both of them are, on sight, but not by name. I've seen Martin on many a tv program and of course Spandau Ballet. Shirlie, I knew from Wham! videos and more so via the documentary about Wham!
The entertainment value of the book was there based on the who these two are, but I got so much more from this than that.
They're both celebrities of varying caliber but knowing they faced bankruptcy, major health issues, and many more things us Plebeians go through brought more humanity to the world of celebrity.
May 25, 2021
As a teenager, Spandau Ballet and Wham were two of my most favourite groups so when I was given this book for Christmas I was excited to read it. I was expecting it to be full of celebrity parties, premiers and showbiz glam but how wrong I was! But this is definately not a negative. This book truly is a love story! So wonderful to read of a showbizzy couple who are so in love and have so much respect for each other, who like nothing better than being at home together with their family who they clearly adore!
August 17, 2021
As a wham fan and growing up in the 80's and 90's this book was a great explosion of nostalgia.
Learning about Martin and Shirley's journey through life and stardom was an eye opener. Just goes to show that one never knows what another person is going through and because of that theory we should always respect one another. Two great specimens of the human race, we should all strive to be like. Thanking you, Martin and Shirley for sharing your story. It was an awesome read, a definate one for my archives, that I'm sharing with others.
Learning about Martin and Shirley's journey through life and stardom was an eye opener. Just goes to show that one never knows what another person is going through and because of that theory we should always respect one another. Two great specimens of the human race, we should all strive to be like. Thanking you, Martin and Shirley for sharing your story. It was an awesome read, a definate one for my archives, that I'm sharing with others.
October 18, 2023
Just beautiful. This was so much more than I expected. Both Martin and Shirlie’s lives have been filled with success, love, and sadness, but their love story helps them through all of it. If you love George, he comes alive in so many places in this book, and for that, I thank the authors. Having said that, I’m still weeping over the Last Christmas chapter.
I listened to the audiobook and I can’t imagine not reading it that way. I will be buying a physical copy when I’m next in London though. This is definitely one I want for the shelf.
I listened to the audiobook and I can’t imagine not reading it that way. I will be buying a physical copy when I’m next in London though. This is definitely one I want for the shelf.
January 16, 2021
What a great book start to 2021! Loved this! I was a Wham fan as a teenager and loved reading this story about Shirlie and Martin’s lives and how they met in the 80’s. I have laughed and even cried reading this especially reading about Shirlies heartache at losing Yog (George Michael) and everything they went through with Martins health. My friends are now queued up waiting on me lending this book to them!
June 4, 2021
I was a fan of both Spandau Ballet and Wham! back in the day, and having enjoyed Andrew Ridgeley's book about Wham! and seeing Martin Kemp's TV documentary DNA Journey with his son Roman, I though I'd give this a try. Told by the couple in alternative chapters, this book examines Shirlie and Martin's life which is, as the title suggests, a love story. They married the same year as me, and it's nice to see such an enduring showbiz relationship. I very much enjoyed it.
July 22, 2021
I loved Spandau Ballet growing up so this autobiography was a definite read for me. A really interesting and easy to read account of Martin and Shirlie’s life together, their childhoods, how they met, their good and bad times and how they have come full circle,back to just the two they f them, now their children have left home. They both come across as really nice people who simply love each other to bits. A really uplifting read.
December 15, 2021
Picked this up in the bargain basement but enjoyed it so much . If you love eighties cheese you will love this . As a moderate spandau fan and a huge Wham fan it was like reliving my teens . Surprisingly had some substance too with Shirley’s recollection of the Wham in China tour and The impact of Martins illness on their relationship and family . Ending with the sad death of George Michael .
Overall it was pure GOLD - it’s TRUE
Overall it was pure GOLD - it’s TRUE
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews