Action star George Reed Masters has spent much of his last twenty years on movie sets, surrounded by willing women. Longing to be seen as a serious actor, he takes on a role that requires him to lose serious weight.
So maybe it’s not the best time to hire his aunt’s private chef, Rose. Has the punishing diet scrambled his brain? George wants her... badly. But unlike any other woman in his orbit, Rose is quiet and reserved, and a committed relationship with a civilian doesn’t jibe with his career plans. Though Rose feels the heat, she is determined to hold onto her job--and her heart.
Child of Hollywood royalty and his frequent co-star, George's ex-wife Helena is a classic beauty with major talent. To win him back and take him far away from Rose, Helena dangles the perfect a coveted role in her father’s next film.
4 stars Mister Movie Star is a slow-burn, cozy romantic tale filled with humour, heart, angst, pain, and vulnerability. George needs to change his appearance for his next role and hires a chef who makes him feel emotions he hasn’t experienced before. Behind his movie-star façade, he is a vulnerable man.
Rose is smart, funny, and a bit jaded; she just wants to do her job. However, George is complicating things for her. Having been hurt badly in the past, she is determined not to let that happen again.
Adding to the tension is George's manipulative ex, who tries to interfere to win him back. Will she destroy something good, or will George realize her intentions before it’s too late? To find out, you’ll need to dive in.
Mister Movie Star is a charming, flirty romp of a romance novel set against the glitzy backdrop of Beverly Hills and the more grounded vibe of the Pacific Northwest. At its heart, it's about Rose Poppins—a talented but emotionally bruised chef—and George Reed Masters, the Hollywood heartthrob with a hidden depth and, as it turns out, a surprisingly grounded soul. When Rose lands a job as George's personal chef, neither expects the whirlwind of attraction, awkwardness, and healing that’s about to unfold. It’s the kind of story that combines humor, heart, and heat in just the right doses.
I fell for the writing right away. It has this effortless, snappy rhythm—funny without trying too hard, emotional without feeling saccharine. From the first few pages, when Rose awkwardly fumbles her way into George’s estate (and into his arms, quite literally), I was hooked. That whole "mistaken identity" set-up where she thinks George is just the pool guy is classic. But it’s not just a gimmick—the banter that follows feels natural and genuinely fun, like you're eavesdropping on two people falling into something big and messy and real. That moment when Rose realizes the “pool guy” is actually her movie star boss was deliciously cringey and delightful.
The deeper stuff hit me harder than I expected. Rose’s backstory with the sleazy chef and the fallout from that mess felt all too real. There’s this sharp moment when Rose reflects on how being a woman in a high-end kitchen already stacks the odds against her—and then a sleazy encounter pulls the rug out from under her. Her resilience, though, really got to me. She’s smart, funny, a little self-deprecating, and trying so hard not to get hurt again. You can’t help but root for her. And George, under the glitz, is just a guy trying to figure out what matters. His moments of vulnerability—like his existential dread over aging out of Hollywood, or wondering if he can carry off a British accent without sounding like a cartoon—give him this surprising, relatable depth.
The chemistry is off the charts. There’s this perfect blend of slow-burn tension and goofy sweetness. I loved their early kitchen scenes—Rose trying not to blush while George munches carrots like Bugs Bunny, or her awkward sandwich moment where she can't stop staring at his indigo eyes. It’s romantic comedy gold. And somehow, amid all the flirting and fumbling, there's this growing sense of trust, like they’re both learning how to be safe with someone again. That’s where the story really shines—not in the glamor, but in the quiet moments where they see each other for real.
If you love character-driven romances with heart, humor, and heat, this one’s a gem. Fans of Emily Henry or Katherine Center will probably feel right at home. It's got enough Hollywood sparkle to keep things fun, but it’s the emotional beats that really stick with you. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants a love story with depth—plus some good food, awkward falls, and the kind of witty repartee that’ll leave you grinning.
A world-famous actor hires a private chef and ends up hungry for far more than what’s on the menu in Treadgold's compelling romance. For action star George Reed Masters, trading in Hollywood blockbusters for serious dramatic work means transforming his body and public image. It also means hiring Rose, a private chef with calm competence, zero tolerance for ego, and no intention of falling for the world’s most eligible bachelor. But despite her professional distance and emotional walls, George finds himself increasingly drawn to Rose. Unfortunately, his glamorous ex-wife Helena, Hollywood royalty and occasional co-star, has other ideas. She’s dangling the role of a lifetime in her father’s film, and it’s clear the offer comes with strings attached.
George might have fame, money, and charm in spades. However, Treadgold doesn’t let him coast on charisma. Instead, she digs into his loneliness, the toll of celebrity, and the aching need to be seen beyond the headlines. Rose, meanwhile, is no stranger to trauma. Steady, capable, and fiercely independent, she’s spent years guarding her heart and building a life she can control. The tension between them (one man seeking something real, one woman determined not to be hurt again) plays out with tender intensity and slow-burning chemistry. Treadgold shows restraint when it comes to portraying the couple's romance. She lets attraction bloom in their shared glances, mismatched expectations, and slowly unfolding trust.
The conflict in the story doesn't come from any manufactured drama. It comes from real emotional stakes: fear of vulnerability, incompatible goals, and the shadow of past heartbreak. The inclusion of Helena, with her perfectly timed manipulations, adds pressure without turning the novel into melodrama. Instead, Treadgold keeps the focus squarely on George and Rose as they navigate the awkward space between public performance and private longing. The novel’s pacing is deliberate and the tone intimate. The relationship builds gradually, giving readers time to believe in it, while avoiding clichés about either celebrity romance or small-town simplicity. Rose’s integrity never wavers, and George’s growth is genuinely earned, both as a man and as a partner. A thoughtful and tender story about fame, vulnerability, and choosing love without losing yourself, the novel captures the slow dance of two people trying to rewrite their own scripts. Fans of The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo and It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover will find much to savor here. A modern fairy tale that feels surprisingly real.
This book is part of a series but it seems that the series does not necessarily have to be read in order. I say this because this is the first book I've read from the Beyond the Olympic Peninsula Series. I love the way the author builds the characters and the settings in this book. I can only imagine when I go read the others in this series, I will get more insight into the secondary characters. It has that slow build romance that has you pulling for the characters right from the get go. These characters do come with some crazy baggage but that is also what makes them who they are, which is amazing. I love how the author puts words to paper that makes yo not only understand what the characters are thinking but also why. It made me really relate to some of the events in this book whether that be the setting, feelings, or event. I tend to read a book quickly when I have some sort of attachment to the story/characters. That is what happened with this book. I wasn't able to put it down and kept turning the pages as quickly as I could. I find myself now having finished the book want to read more, so I highly intend to read the rest of this series. I believe that if this book was as good as it was, the rest of the series will be just as good. Who knows maybe after the reading the rest of the series, I will re-read this and see if I can pick up n some things that I might have missed because I didn't know to look for them. If you are wanting some that gives you a little escape in your day to day, this book is a great quick read.
I absolutely loved this book—it was compelling, detailed, and completely fantastic from start to finish. George is such an interesting character to follow: an action star trying to shake off his Hollywood playboy reputation and prove he can be taken seriously. Watching him struggle with the pressure of a grueling role while also falling hard for someone so different from the women he’s used to made for a really layered story.
Rose was a standout for me. She’s quiet, steady, and determined to hold her ground despite being pulled into George’s chaotic world. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I loved how the author balanced the slow build of trust and intimacy with the heat simmering between them. Every interaction felt charged in the best way.
The addition of Helena as George’s ex-wife stirred up the perfect amount of drama. Her lure of a career-defining role dangled temptation in front of him, forcing George to face what really mattered: his career or his heart. That tension kept me hooked until the very last page.
The writing is sharp, immersive, and full of detail that made both the Hollywood backdrop and the emotional journey come alive. It’s a romance that gives you spice, drama, and depth all in one. I’ll be recommending this one to anyone who loves a smart, sexy, and heartfelt read.
Following a very traumatic assault by her former restaurant boss (for which she is let go), Rose Poppins, 27, decides to try her hand at being a personal chef. It just so happens that a friend’s nephew is in the market to hire someone. He’s in the midst of a strict weight-loss regimen for an upcoming movie role, so their initial interactions are a bit strained. Rose walks on pins and needles, not knowing how long this job will last. The housekeeper compares her to “a shelter cat”, predicting it would be “at least a week until she feels comfortable roaming freely”. Slowly Rose begins to gain back some of her lost confidence and begins to enjoy the company of the staff and their movie star employer, George Reed Masters. Cat Treadgold does a fine job of building the expected romantic tension between Rose and George, while keeping their characters both relatable and grounded. It’s impossible not to like the sheltered little family of choice that exists behind the walls of George’s Hollywood mansion. She deftly weaves in character details as the novel unfolds, and how these details affect the choices each makes moving forward. There is a surprise twist at the end. Overall Mister Movie Star is the perfect cozy romance – 5 Stars.
"Mr. Movie Star" offers a captivating glimpse into the glamorous yet complex world of Hollywood, blending romance, ambition, and self-discovery. George Reed Masters, an action star seeking credibility as a serious actor, is a compelling protagonist whose journey to transform himself physically and emotionally keeps readers hooked. His desire to be seen beyond his macho persona adds depth to his character, making his struggles relatable.
The chemistry between George and Rose, his aunt's private chef, is palpable. Rose’s quiet strength and dedication contrast beautifully with George’s flamboyance, creating a wonderfully balanced dynamic. Their blossoming relationship explores themes of authenticity, self-acceptance, and the risks of pursuing love amid career ambitions.
Adding layers to the story is Helena, George’s ex-wife and Hollywood royalty, whose manipulative charm introduces an undercurrent of conflict and longing. Her offer of a key role in her father’s film sets the stage for tension between personal and professional aspirations.
Overall, "Mr. Movie Star" is an engaging read that deftly combines star-studded glitz with heartfelt emotion. It's an entertaining tale about chasing after genuine happiness in the midst of fame and fortune.
Mister Movie Star is another book by a wonderful author that I couldn’t put down. A story between a city girl and an actor is for everyone to enjoy. Rosie is starting a new job, in house chef for George Masters, however upon getting to the residence she stumbled a bit. She thought she met the poolboy on her arrival and talked to him as such, unbeknownst to her it was her new employer. Since then things have been strange, but she has developed feelings for him. But she knows it can go nowhere, why would he be interested in the help? Treating his main staff as friends is one thing, romantic encounters can be messy. So she tries to keep it to herself. George is intrigued by his new chef. She’s the breath of fresh air he didn’t realize he was holding. But how to navigate the situation? Things become awkward because just like Rosie he’s attracted to her and doesn’t know how to navigate it. Will they give in or remain professional? Will there be trouble that comes their way? He is an actor so anything could happen. It’s a book I feel anyone could read, you just need to give it a chance.
Mister Movie Star by Cat Treadgold is a slow-burning celebrity romance, revolving around George and Rose. George is a long-time Hollywood Actor who has long ago become disillusioned and has walled himself off. Rose is the new private chef for George. Recovering from personal loss, she has her guard up around those in George’s world. But what started as purely professional soon deepens into something deep and intimate. Rose and George’s story gave all the good steam, while still finding ways to heal each other’s wounds. From George learning to trust again after loss and loneliness to moving beyond his Hollywood career. And Rose, wanting to remain in the background, must come to terms with her feelings for George and what that means for her personal peace. I found this book to flow beautifully, the characters were super believable, and the steam was just enough to keep the book interesting. If you are looking for a book where the characters need some extra love, and the emotional journey is just as important as the love story, then this story is definitely for you! I can’t wait to see what the other books in this series have to offer!
I was thrilled when I saw that Cat Treadgold was launching a new book series, Beyond the Olympic Peninsula, which allows us to follow some of the past characters we've met and learn more about them. The first book in this series follows George's story, a character we met in The Magic Man (David and Maddie's love story). This book stays true to the author's writing style, with excellent character development, true-to-life situations, and of course, our main characters find romance in the least expected of ways. They each have trials that they must navigate, which of course causes drama, misunderstandings, and puts love to the test. I love how well the author makes her characters so relatable. It is amazing how close the reader feels to the storyline and is rooting for the right woman to win over the heart of our main character. I cannot wait to see what comes next from Cat Treadgold, one of my favorite authors for her magnificent way with words, and writing stories that touch your heart, and creating characters with just the perfect amount of character flaws for you to be able to find them relatable, and yet lovable. @Brandy Rymer 08/2025
This book follows the movie star George Reed Masters who we met in a book in the author’s other series. George has moved to LA and is working on a new project. A film based on the life of an artist who paints amazing landscapes but then dies at a young age. His paintings are unsigned and some are even stolen and put up in famous museums as someone else’s work. George needs to lose weight and look gaunt and also learn how to speak with a British accent. After firing his chef, he is talked into hiring Rose, a friend of his aunts. Rose was fired from her sous chef job after the chef tried to rape her and she kicked him in the shin and ran. She is starting over and shows up to the mansion excited for a new challenge. Rose meets the pool boy and they talk a lot about her and George and the mansion, only to discover the Geo is actually George. There was an instant connection on both sides but they both tell themselves not to get involved. This was a fun romance with a lot of witty banter and slow burn chemistry.
This read made me think of things I already know , like actors are also just people with their own hopes , dreams , insecurities and what not and at the end of the day we’re all just people wanting to live our lives ….
George is an actor with a bit of a reputation and he wants to play a different role to those he normally takes on but he needs to make a few changes to be seen in a different light and like any of us , change isn’t always easy and sometimes it comes at a price …
Also he has ladies falling at his feet so having a chance at something real is daunting and different
Rose is tough yet gentle and isn’t easily frightened off by the world George has lived in and still lives in most women wouldn’t have the stomach to deal with it so that says a lot about her as a character and as a woman
George and Rose overcome their hurdles and they deserve their chance together 💓all I want to say to Helen is shame on you girl 🙈
A fun read and it did have moments that left me a little frustrated but it really left me with the warm and fuzzies 😉
With its cozy vibes, endearing characters, and smart, sexy dialogue, Mister Movie Star is an enjoyable ride from beginning to end.
What I loved most about this book is how grounded it feels despite the glitz of Hollywood. Rose is refreshingly down-to-earth, witty, and vulnerable, trying to rebuild her life after a traumatic incident in the restaurant world. George, for all his movie-star charisma, is a man with surprising layers—jaded yet sincere, confident yet craving connection. Their chemistry is instant but not rushed, and the way they navigate their growing attraction in a high-pressure, high-profile environment is handled with warmth and maturity. The dialogue sparkles, especially in their early interactions, and the setting is richly drawn, from luxurious casitas to quirky home theaters.
Perfect for fans of The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood, Book Lovers by Emily Henry, or rom-coms like Notting Hill.
This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. I enjoy this author’s writing skills and her ability to create characters that are full of heart and soul. I found this book to be well written and hard to put down. A story about what happens when an ex wants you back and knows exactly what to dangle in front of your face to get you back. George has been waiting for his big break in the movies. He hires Rose to cook for his aunt and he really wants to be with her. The problem is his ex wants him back and she is willing to up the ante on Rose by offering George a part in her father’s movie. Which one will lose their heart and which one will break a heart? I enjoyed the characters in this story. They are strong, engaging and made the story easy to read. I enjoyed the chemistry between them as well as the growth throughout the story. Their story is fast paced and just a great romance story to read. I highly recommend this book
5 Stars Mister Movie Star (Beyond the Olympic Peninsula) By Cat Treadgold
Mister Movie Star is the first book in the Beyond the Olympic Peninsula Series. This is a wonderfully written Contemporary Romance that is packed with heart,connection,a bit of drama and so much more. I’ve read several books by this author and this may just be my favorite yet. George and Rose are great characters that are fully developed, real yet complex and stole my heart. These two have chemistry between them. Both of them have been through so much. He’s trying to lose weight for his next role and hires a chef to prepare the right foods to help him . George is a bit vulnerable and Rose is a bit jaded yet smart and funny. These two definitely made the story pop off the pages and made me feel like I was apart of the story. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Im looking forward to reading more from this Author.
Mister Movie Star (Beyond the Olympic Peninsula) by Cat Treadgold. This is a wonderful contemporary romance about George Reed Masters who is an actor and has been so used to women falling at his feet. He has taken on a new, serious role and he wants to prove to everyone that he is a serious actor. As part of the new role, he's been asked to lose weight so he's doing all he can to accomplish that. He ends up hiring his Aunt's chef, Rose to help him with this diet. Rose is very reserved and quiet and he never finds women like her attractive but something about her is pulling him toward her. Rose has left a job after a serious incident and she is not wanting anything to do with a relationship so when George shows his interest she is not biting. Rose finds George very attractive but she doesn't want to lose her job. His ex wife is also trying to win him back so she doesn't want to t deal with that mess. Will George get what he wants this time? Read this great romance to find out!
He’s a famous movie star. Starting as a child actor and eventually branching out into action movies, George is larger than life. Rose is in the right place at the right time and George’s aunt recommends her when George needs a new personal chef. They couldn’t be more different and yet something draws them together. Everyone warns Rose that George has a short attention span and that his relationships don’t last. Will love or movie roles win in the end? I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters have formed their own family when their real ones are less than perfect. I also enjoyed George’s group of friends and imagined them to be what people in the business are like. I kept turning the pages to see will they or won’t they be together in the end. I look forward to reading more books by this author. It looks like some of her characters are featured in other books so I want to check that out as the characters are all wonderful. Funny, nasty, snarky...they run the gamut.
George is an actor determined to prove that he can take on a serious role (and shake his playboy reputation). To do so, he is going to have to get into better shape. So, he hires a private chef. Rose is quiet and reserved...and definitely not the type of woman that George is normally attracted to. Rose, who also feels the attraction, wants to keep her job and heart safe...so a relationship with George is not going to happen. As these two spend more time together, trust is earned and feelings develop and deepen. When George's ex-wife wants his attention back, she dangles a starring role in a new film in front of him to try to get him back. Will George pick potential stardom or his heart?!?
This is a slow burn book that was entertaining to read. Both George and Rose came into this story with differing opinions on what a relationship should be...and started to learn what it could be. Adding in the ex-wife was a good dose of added drama. Overall, a fun story to read.
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Action star George Reed Masters wants to be seen as a serious actor and so takes on a role that he needs to lose serious weight for. He hires his Aunt’s private chef Rose to help him with a punishing diet. Although George is more used to women throwing themselves at him, he finds himself falling for the reserved and quiet Chef. Rose does find George attractive but she’s determined to keep her job and doesn’t want to have her heart broken by a movie star. Meanwhile George’s ex-wife and frequent co- star Helena, offers him a coveted role in her father’s next film in order to win George back. This is a heartwarming romance between two likeable and relatable characters. The chemistry between George and Rose comes across in the narrative, and I was hoping they would get their HEA.
This is the first book that I have read from this author and she now has a new fan. I love a good millionaire romance but this story exceeded my expectations. This is the first book to the beyond the Olympic peninsula series. You are going to fall in love with both of these characters right away. I could not put this book down so I read it until the end. It only took me a few hours to devour this cute story.
George Reed Masters is a very famous action movie star. He can be with any woman he wants and he does not do relationships any more. George is given a role where he has to lose some weight for his character so he hires his aunt's chef to help him out. He meets Rose and she is not the same like all the other women he has met. She is different and he can’t stop thinking about her. Will George finally find the one he wants or will his past break them apart?
I am a series girl who loves to catch up with some old friends, while it is a different series technically there was was an appearance from the old gang.
George Reed Masters is in need of a private chef, his Aunt Merilee recommended Rose who is need of a job after a not so great situation in the kitchen of her previous job.
Instant sparks between George and Rose along with a less than ideal situation keep you reading this story.
I thankfully had the time to read it fairly quickly so I didn't have to worry about putting it down.
I was able to picture George and his house as soon as they were described to us with the details provided along with so many other thngs.
Looking forward to the next book by Ms. Treadgold and hopefully some of my old friends will be there.
This story revolves around George and Rose. George is an actor in Hollywood and Rose is his chef. Rose has some kind of baggage and some seriously bad previous experiences and has walled herself off from people and relationships. Because of this, she teeters between waiting for the other shoe to drop and keeping distance. As George gets to know his closed off, but beautiful chef, he finds that he wants to spend more time with her and get to know her on more than a professional level. But it's not going to be as easy as he'd like it to be. His ex, also famous, dangles an opportunity that George definitely wants in front of him. Will he pull the strings that lead to this very important role or will be cut off that opportunity to get to know his sweet, but jaded chef? You'll have to read to find out!!!
Rose is a city girl, a chef, and relatively quiet and reserved. She's been jaded pretty badly in the past and isn't looking for more hurt.
George is an actor with a crazy ex-wife/co-star. Life's been fairly good to him and the women are plentiful. In an effort to attract more roles, George finds himself needing to make some lifestyle changes.
George hires Rose to be his personal chef but there's heat in more than just the kitchen. The slow burn romance between these two could make or break George's career, especially where his ex is concerned.
This is a fun series to read. It seems that each story gets better. It's not necessary to read each story but it's helpful to have background on secondary characters that make appearances.
George is an actor know for his ripped abs on most sets however his newest movie is not his usual appearance. However in the mean time of the newest movie being released George has hired a new personal chef for his estate at the suggestion of his aunt. This will be Rose’s first job as a personal chef, however she has worked as a sous chef at a restaurant in New York however things did not end well there due to the head chef. However things spark as soon as they meet because George decided to meet her himself on her first day but didn’t exactly tell her who he was, he was waiting to see if she recognized him. The spark between the two was undeniably however they both feel that it should never happen. What could happen during her time as his personal chef?
An enjoyable Work romance. Rose Poppins has been hired to be George Reed Masters Personal Chef. So nothing like crushing instantly on his hired help to only find out the help is George himself in the flesh. But why would a mega movie star see anything in Rose compared to all the other actress he could have. At least that is what she might think, but George has other ideas on that subject. Seeing as Rose is the only one he cannot stop thinking about. Will their work, life balance work out? Or will the demands of being a movie star outweigh what could be a chance at being happy in love. You will have to read to see how Rose and George are able to overcome several challenges to get the happy ending they desire.
Mister Movie Star is the latest release by Cat Treadgold. This is a sweet, slow-burn, contemporary romance with chemistry, connection, and two truly unforgettable MCs. The author has also imbued the story with plenty of heart & soul. And as mentioned, George and Rose are wonderful- cleverly crafted individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. They were perfect for each other, bringing hope and healing to both their lives. Again, Ms. Treadgold has crafted a touching story woven with plenty of emotion- including just enough angst and drama to keep things interesting. Happy Reading…
This book started out so strong! Initially, I loved the main characters; there was some fun back and forth dialogue, and they were interesting. And then that stopped. Somewhere around halfway thru, the story got real cheesy, and both MCs became insufferable to the point that I almost DNF’d. The dialogue became juvenile, the MMC would say the most immature things. The FMC is his private chef, and he actually said while in the midst of their getting together “I’ll never be sick of juicy breasts and thighs.” CRINGE. Thankfully, the ending was swift, but was completely anticlimactic. Do not recommend.
Rose is a chef that has been black listed in New York by a head chef that is a total and complete jerk and might I add inappropriate. She is offered a job as a personal chef in L.A. and here the adventure for her begins. This is a must have summer beach read. Romance, suspense, and forbidden romance. What more could you want?
This is my first book by this author and I must say I was totally immersed into the story. The characters are so life-like. I was thinking about them even when not reading. This author does her research or has a great knowledge of literature and old movies. I loved all the references.
George Reed Masters finds himself needing a personal chef to keep him on track for an upcoming role. He hires Rose at the recommendation of his aunt. Rose needs a fresh start after a rocky situation with her boss and moving to the West Coast was the solution. Both are feeling sparks when in close quarters; however, resist for a variety of reasons. Rose finds that being Mister Movie Star is not all it cracked up to be. Treadgold sets her readers in a cozy romance that has one rooting for a happy ending. If you have read her other books in the Olympic Peninsula series, you will not want to miss out on this one.
Mr. Movie Star by Cat Treadgold is about George Reed Masters who is the son of Hollywood royalty and has grown up on movie sets. George wants to be taken seriously as an actor and has finally landed a role that requires him to lose a lot of weight. He hires private chef Rosa and the attraction is evident. George is used to women throwing themselves at him but Rosa is quiet and reserved. George’s ex-wife Helena wants him back and dangles a movie role in her father’s next film to get him away from Rosa. Although this is a quick read, the relationship is a slow burn that keeps you rooting for this couple.