Write Your Own Script by A.L. Brooks is a celebrity romance, which anyone familiar with my reviews knows is one of my jams. What makes this one special, among other things, is that I’m pretty sure it’s the only one I’ve read where both characters are over 40!
At 52, British actor Tamsyn Harris is still a big draw at the box office. Her continued fame comes with a cost, however, which includes staying closeted and having to prove herself all over again by taking physically taxing roles. Despite her popularity with fans, she’s dealing with snide remarks on set about her age and when she hits her limit and strikes back (at a TOTAL jerk), Tamsyn heads off for an adult time out in the countryside.
Maggie Cooper writes popular historical m/f romances under one pseudonym and contemporary lesbian romances under another. But after releasing book after book for years, and keeping quiet about her true identity, the words aren’t coming anymore. Hopeful that some time in the country with her dog is just what she needs to get her writing mojo back, Maggie gets more than she’d bargained for when she stumbles on her favourite actress and megacrush.
The chemistry between them builds quickly and Maggie and Tamsyn agree to terms—they can enjoy two lust-filled weeks together, and then go their separate ways. But will it really be that easy? Or will feelings follow them home?
The Characters
I’m a big fan of Maggie and Tamsyn. They’re both doing their best to deal with career challenges and still find a way to open enough to each other that they enjoy their time together. I also like that, because they’re both around fifty years old, they have different concerns and elements of their character growth than what we see in a celebrity romances featuring women in their thirties.
The Writing Style
The pace was gentle, allowing us to luxuriate in the romance, the setting, and the characters. It’s also a steamy story (while still a romance rather than an erotic romance), so if that’s your jam, you’ll be a very happy reader!
The Pros
Everything worked for me!
The Cons
Nothing.
The Conclusion
Write Your Own Script is a lovely read and I recommend it, especially if you like celebrity romances, stories with British settings, or characters who are over 40. It was a fun way to pass a weekend and I’m looking forward to rereading it!
Excerpt from Write Your Own Script by A.L. Brooks
“Hello, again,” Maggie called, amazed that she not only found her voice but that it came out cheery and strong, rather than weak and star-struck.
Tamsyn raised her hand in a half wave and then, much to Maggie’s shock, stopped and waited for them. Gizmo, of course, immediately ran up to the new person and began sniffing around her feet and ankles. Tamsyn flinched but held her ground, and Maggie tugged Gizmo back. If the world-famous actress was scared of dogs, Maggie wasn’t going to make it worse.
“Sorry,” she said, as she reined him in to her side and stepped to within three or four paces of Tamsyn. “He’s just very excitable. He doesn’t mean anything by it.”
Tamsyn smiled. “Actually, he’s okay. I guess it helps that he’s cute.”
Tamsyn Harris thinks my dog is cute! Maggie held back the beam of delight, but only just.
“Oh yeah, but he knows it and uses it to his full advantage,” she said, grinning.
“Listen,” Tamsyn said, her voice suddenly a little croaky. “I… So, I’m guessing you know who I am, yes?”
Maggie nodded. “Tamsyn Harris. Or her stunt double, maybe.”
Tamsyn’s laugh was like a bell chiming in the woods. “Unfortunately, I’m the real one.”
Maggie cocked her head. “Unfortunately?”
Tamsyn’s face fell. “Sorry, ignore me. Look, I just wanted to say, firstly, thank you for not saying anything earlier. I can’t tell you how refreshing it was to be left alone.”
Maggie shrugged. “You’re here on your own, as far as I can tell, and that spoke volumes. I…I just wanted to respect that. Even though I am, I have to admit, a huge fan.”
Tamsyn tipped her head in acknowledgement. “Then I appreciate it even more.”
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Bits and Bobs
- ISBN number: 9783963241567
- Publisher: Ylva Publishing
- A.L. Brooks Online
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