Love Under the Hot Lights

Scripted for Love #1

by M.K. Meredith

Formerly Malibu Betrayals...
Hollywood screenwriter Samantha Dekker spent the last year picking up the pieces after her husband's suicide. Along with grief, guilt, and tabloid hell, she's had to watch helplessly as the film industry slammed its doors in her face. Now Sam has the rarest of Hollywood opportunities—a second chance…working with the one man she swore never to see again.

Sexy A-lister Gage Cutler knows that Sam blamed him for his part in her husband's death. Still, Sam is the one woman he can never forget. All he wants is a second chance of his own—to prove he's not the player she remembers. And Malibu is the perfect backdrop to make a girl swoon.

Except they're not alone. Someone is watching Sam and Gage's steamy off-screen romance with the most dangerous of intentions…

Genres: Romance

309 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2015

About the author

I write single title contemporary romance novels, promising an emotional ride on heated sheets. As a member of several writing groups, I believe the best route to success is to never stop learning.

I've had a lifelong love affair with peanut butter -- the only two things coming close in the battle for my affections are gorgeous heels, and maybe Gerard Butler...or was it David Gandy? Who am I kidding? My true loves are my husband and two children who have survived my SEA's (spontaneous explosions of affection) and lived to tell the tale.

I've been reading romance long before I should have and can’t think of anything better than to fill my life with the promise of happily-ever-afters.

Reviews

[M.K. Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam and Gage will take you through an emotional ride on heated sheets to be sure! These two independent souls are on a journey of healing, both determined to do right by those they love and themselves, but when the past invades the present, and someone is playing a dangerous game, how can they ever come out happy ever after?
This Scripted for Love series is set in the film industry but in a very different way than you've commonly seen for sure! These thirty-somethings are struggling to find their happy ever after in one of the most impossible places to look!
Enjoy the love!
Hugs, loves, and peanut butter!
MK Meredith

[☆☆Hannah☆☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good book. Sam and Gage had known each other in the past. Sam is trying to cope from the devastation of her marriage. I hated the way people treated her when they knew nothing about what went on. Thankfully she had Gage. I was happy that in the end they got their HEA.

[Pauline Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good you won't be able to put it down. Sam's husband committed suicide, lost her job, so she moves back. She was given a great project to work on, but the other partner to the project was the one person she blamed for her husband's death --Gage. Can they work together and be civil? There are twists and turns between them, but work has to be done so they keep on trying to work thru their emotions. Can she go past the guilt she has and trust Gage as he tries to come closer to her. MK is such a talented writer that draws you right into the story. Very well written

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

Samantha Dekker is looking to get back to her career as a screenwriter after taking a year off to grieve. But she never imagined she'd have to work with the sexy Gage Cutler, the man she blamed for her husband's death. Still, she's determined to make a go of the second chance she's been given. Will Gage be able to convince Samantha to take a chance on him or will her trust issues ruin any chance they could have together?

MK Meredith is such a talented writer and this first book of her Scripted for Love series is an enthralling, fast-paced, extremely interesting read where these enemies face some tough obstacles to be together such as the horrors of Hollywood, the lies spread and the heroine blaming the hero for what happened to her late husband; and the dialogue was intense due to the main characters back stories and everything these two go through on their journey to happy ever after. Will Samantha be able to let go of the past and put her trust in Gabe?

With the main characters, I couldn't help but sympathize with the heroine because her in-laws are completely horrible and deserve whatever Samantha decides to do in order to make sure their harassment stops. Moreover, I also liked her resilience when it came to dealing with everything that's happening on set and someone determined to ruin her career. Why is someone trying to send her packing? Yet, what I liked so much about the heroine was that she gave the hero a chance, even though being with a Hollywood A-Lister scares Samantha because she doesn't want what happened with her husband to happen to her again. He turned her life upside down with what he did and it was hard to handle the mess he left behind. How could her late husband have been so selfish?

While the hero, he's strong, confident, determined to fight for what he wants in his life and what he wants is Samantha and I liked his willingness to show her that he doesn't care what Hollywood says about them. If it hurts his career, it hurts his career. She's worth more to him. I also liked the close relationship he shares with his family because his sister's advice goes a long way to the decisions he makes when it comes to giving Sam the time she needs to get used to what everyone thinks of them being a couple. Will he be able to handle the challenges he faces with Sam to win her over?

Overall, Ms Meredith has delivered a well-written and heartfelt read in this book where the chemistry between Gabe and Samantha was powerful; the romance was absolutely passionate and does justice to the strong chemistry these two have; and the ending had me loving this couple's determination to fight for their future together. Yes, Hollywood can be nasty, but it doesn't mean that a relationship can't work. They just have to be willing to make it work. I would recommend Love Under the Hot Lights by MK Meredith, if you enjoy Hollywood romances, the enemy to lovers trope, second chance romances or books by authors Marina Adair, Catherine Bybee, Jennifer Probst and Sarah Robinson.

[BlueBug · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had me from the start because the heroine was a strong woman who didn't know her own strength until it was put to the test. Samantha Dekker was a screenwriter who had fallen because of the life she thought she would have had collapsed and attempted to take her with it. But when she receives the opportunity to get back into the business, she finds support all around her, including the one man who'd left an impression on her before everything fell apart, an actor by the name of Gage Cutler. But Samanth has one rule when it comes to relationships - never get involved with anyone in the business. She's already learned that lesson the hard way. And with her late husband's family breathing down her neck, still punishing her at every turn, it should be easy for her to keep this one rule in mind. But why does she need to keep convincing herself that this rule is more important than anything she could have with Gage?

Gage is a man with his own skeleton filled closet. He's still a hot commodity in Hollywood even with a bad boy past he's worked hard to overcome. Unfortunately, one of the incidents involves Sam's late husband, and that's been a difficult one to live down. When he's cast as the lead in the film for which Sam is the new screenwriter, it gives him a chance to get to know her all over again. And she's still the one woman who throws his heart and mind off kilter, the one who got away. Could it be that those bridges haven't been burned as completely as he thought they'd been?

With the strange things that continue to happen on set and the confrontations with the Evans's, Sam and Gage have an uphill battle. Who is the threat behind the odd occurrences? Why does Ethan's family continue to harass her so long after his death? And what are the consequences if she were to allow herself to feel what she wants to for Gage Cutler?

Sam is the epitome of a woman working to overcome adversity in so many ways. She still feels the weight of the abuse and neglect she withstood that took her so far down, but she's trying to stand on her own two feet and figure out who she is. This author has a talent for helping the reader feel the pain her heroine has been through along with her determination to succeed and make a life from the ashes of her past. I felt all of the angst and understood the Sam's reluctance and her reasoning along with the fear as she made the difficult decisions. I love a strong heroine, and even though some may not see the strength in Samantha Dekker, the thread was present throughout. The mystery lent an exciting undercurrent along with the backlash from Ethan's family. It was inspiring to watch her characters overcome the situations as they pushed through them, and the background stories and characters only helped make the story complete. I laughed and cried and felt as if I had a stake in the outcome. I was enthralled from the very beginning until the last page, and I am looking forward to seeing where the author takes us next.

[Joyce Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story that draws the reader in, by almost taunting the reader with tidbits of information and then pulling back, to be repeated over and over again until just the correct rhythm has been established to startle the reader to the core with new revelations. The characterizations are good and provide a lot of detail about all the individuals involved in the telling of the tale. The main female character has/is gone through some fairly horrific emotional times. She came out of her marriage as a widow and a lost soul. She is trying to regroup and forge a new path into the future. This reader has never come across a story line of how these two main male and female characters' lives intersect and they meet for the first time. Interesting component to this story. The main male character also has past/current issues with work gossip. With the main female character he is a smouldering mass of maleness, very intense and solely focussed on her.

For this reader, the author brought forth into this story quite a few social issues within our current society The one that struck this reader the most, was the point of people using their oratory skills as knives and cutting people up verbally, belittling them and abusing them in invisible ways. To a degree, this is unfortunate, that people, generally, only see suffering and pain, when there is visual evidence. It was really brought home to this reader that we need to be gentle with each other, especially with our tone of voice and to be more cognizant of what verbiage is escaping from our mouths..

This is the first time reading Ms. Meredith's work, however, the plan is to ensure many more of this author's books are read. Great writing job.

I voluntarily received an advance review copy of this novel via Booksprout and I am leaving an honest and unbiased review. I have no affiliation to this author.

[Kristen Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Malibu Betrayals is a second chance romance story with a little bit of suspense/mystery thrown in. It was the perfect blend of what I feel you coud find in Hollywood behind the scenes among the elite.

Gage and Sam met at an inopportune time in their lives, and Sam walked away, knowing she was doing the right thing for herself(at the time). Years later, with circumstances changed, they find themselves together again. This time, Gage is ready to go the distance to win over Sam and keep her. Sam is in the process of rediscovering herself, and its hard for her to see Gage's genuine respect and insterest in her. It's hard to grasp something she's never had before.

But things are not that simple. Sam is being harrassed by someone and threats are made. So not only are Gage and Sam trying to work around a relationship, they are also trying to figure out who's behind the mysterious "attacks" Sam has been facing.

MK Meredith has woven a beautiful love story, while also sucking you in with the bit of mystery. I think I spent as much time trying to figure things out myself as I did rooting for Gage and Sam to come together without further issue. There was drama, mystery, sweetness, and also a wonderful sensuality leading to some steamy scenes.

I look forward to what MK Meredith has to offer the book world in the future. If the fabulous Malibu Betrayals has anything to show for it, future readers are going to have a new favorite author to add to their ranks

[Donna Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind the scenes in Hollywood has always been a fascination. This series is looking to be a window into the people that make Hollywood so fascinating. Gage is a Hollywood heartthrob. He knows what he wants but has had to wait for it, Samantha. Sam is a Hollywood writer. Her failed first marriage to Ethan makes her leary of having any kind of relationship with anyone famous. She only finds out how failed her marriage was after her husband's suicide. She is devistaed from embarrassment. She does to never put herself in that spot again.
Gage fell in love with Sam years ago when they had a chance meeting. Sam walked away because she believed in the marriage she was in. He was heartbroken but respected her for that. Now, picking up the pieces her ex left behind, Sam must move on with her career. The paparazzi has linked them together time and time again. Especially since Ethan's suicide was a result of a car accident with Gage.
These two broke my heart. They are so good together but have so many issues to work through. I don't want to give any spoilers away but it was so worth the tears I shed to read to the end. Wonderful writing to the point where I was sucked in and had a massive book hangover.

[Caroline Doig · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my 1st read and review for this author and it’s a fantastic story, it’s the story of Samantha and Gage. Samantha lost her husband over a year ago he was in a accident and she blamed one man Gage she was so angry with him but she knows deep down that it wasn’t his fault and she hadn’t had the chance to apologise to him. Today she is meeting her father to look over a script but she didn’t call him dad she called him by his name Martin, he told her that Gage is playing the starring role and he’s the assistant director and he was standing right there behind her. Sam felt so bad that she blamed him for everything but she panicked looked back at both of the men then took off. After her husbands car crash Ethan became a bitter man and he took everything out on Sam but she couldn’t leave him the guilt would of killed her. That’s all I’m going to give you guys but there is so much more to this story to keep you entertained and turning the pages. This is a fantastic story and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.

[AnneKR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Samantha Dekker is struggling to get back in the entertainment business as a screenwriter after the suicide of her husband dragged her name through media outlets in a negative way. Finally getting a chance to work with her mentor, she has no choice but to also work with the one man she blamed publicly for her husband’s suicide. Gage Cutler met Sam years ago and while she was married, they both can’t deny they had a strong connection and attraction for each other. Sam is trying very hard to keep it professional, but with Gage persistent with his intentions of wanting her, she can’t prevent their paths from crossing into something more. But Sam has deep mental and emotional issues from her husband’s verbal abuse, and she struggles with letting Gage in completely and trusting him. When something happens that leaves Gage to deal with the fallout on his own, she may have lost him forever.

Another great read from the author, and I look forward to reading her next book!

[Tina Hobbs Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

"There's something between us. Has been since the night we met." Gage Cutler utters these words to Samantha Decker, and it is absolutely true. But the sheer weight of the things that happened from the night they met to this very moment is crippling.

Sam has been given a chance to go back to the work she loves. Having to work with Gage is pleasure and pain, wrapped all in one. She knew they have a connection. She was not surprised it was still there. Neither was Gage. Things keeps happening, though, to remind Sam why she wants nothing to do with the life of dating a celebrity.

This is great story of love, obstacles and learning to truly trust. I really enjoyed how this story is told!

[Jackie Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Samantha Dekker has had a horrible year ever since her husband's death. Hollywood closed its doors to her, but she just might be able to stage a comeback if Martin has anything to say about it. Now if she can just figure out how to work with Gage Cutler, the man she blamed for her husband's death, the man she also had (still has) feelings for.

As Samantha and Gage start working together, Gage has hope that the woman he loves may be letting him in. If he could only protect her from the ugliness of Hollywood, protect her from his past bad boy behavior, protect her from the harassment coming from an unknown source. And if only she'd quit running when things get a little tough!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Misty Goan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartfelt story that is a beautifully written enemies to lovers romance. This emotional rollercoaster included believable, engaging, and interesting characters as they overcome obstacles in the Hollywood world. Samantha and Gage had amazing backstories in this interesting smooth flowing storyline that pulled me in having me addicted page after page with the intense dialogue that was very emotional in the way to a HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie Mahnke · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you do not fall in love with Samantha and Gage, there is a problem. Their story did not start out well, but wow, did it ever explode! I had so many feels with this book and it was hard not to cry on the train from work, not once, but twice. If this is book one of the series, I cannot wait to read book two.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam and Gage... Loved them! Great characters and a great read. Hollywood romance, he is an actor, she is a writer. Their story is so awesome. Not a slow part in the whole book! MK you have done it again!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rhonda Ziglar · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 FABULOUS STARS!! This book was fabulous, I could not put it down. Gage and Sam's story has all the feels and beautifully written, which is what we want in a romance book. M.K. Meredith is a phenomenal author her words are flawless, she is one of my go to authors always perfect stories. I highly recommend this book.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book in the Scripted for Love series a well-written story that I enjoyed reading. Hollywood screenwriter Samantha Dekker and Sexy A-lister Gage Cutler's story kept me turning pages a story of a second chance. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She has had a rough year since her husband committed suicide. She was also shut out of Hollywood as a writer. He wants her to give him a second chance as he knows she blames him for her husband suicide. The sparks fly between them but someone is watching them. Why? What will they do? See what will happen

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how this relationship developed over the course of the story. There was chemistry between the two main characters that was apparent immediately. I felt for her given her trauma during the last year and I wanted to shake her for not reporting the issues she was having with her husband's family. A wonderfully written romantic book with lots of steam.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sam and Gage were a great couple who have overcome a lot of ups and downs in their life. It was a really good story but maybe could have been cut back a little. I felt like the story was a little drawn out! With that said though there were a lot of issues that were very well covered and saw each character overcome so much!

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

These characters are amazing and wonderful. The author is amazing. She has done it again to wow us with her words and the cover is awesome.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J Lundsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was all about trust. Trust in yourself. Trust in the one you love. But trust in Hollywood is hard to find.

This was a tear-jerker! Sam has been through a lot and so has Gage. They are soul mates but have a lot of obstacles to overcome. I loved watching them fall in love!!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Under the Hot Lights was so well written I felt like I was there. I was totally engaged right from the start. There are some twists and turns involved that just add to the beauty of the story. I loved it.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a page turning romance, about learning to trust and love again after such a tearful beginning. I really like how the story line played out and didn't want the book to end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Under the Hot Lights Book 1 of Scripted for Love by MK Meredith

LOVE!! It was so good! I love the characters. Loved the winding twirl ride! Kept my interest! So many feels; laughed, cried, smile.

I can not wait for more in the series!

[Clare Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

MK Meredith weaves an extraordinary story. You will fall in love. The characters are real and they will hit you in all the feels. I couldn't put it down.

[Nicole Rezler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a lot. Sam and Gage have great chemistry! This is my first book by MK Meredith and I can't wait to read more

[kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing read. could not put down....

[Carma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sam and Gage share a tragic past. They never thought they would run into each other again after so many years. Let alone be working together on a movie project. Will they be able to resist their mutual attraction or ignore all the naysayers and try to make a relationship work?

While the storyline was interesting to me, quite a few of the secondary characters didn’t work for me. I felt they were added only for drama and not in an interesting way. There was, for me, a lot of skimming and skipping pages that seemed to hold no real storyline continuation. I can only give this book a 3 out of 5 star for those reasons.

I received an advance copy without expectation for review, all opinion expressed are my own. While I’ve read quite a few novels by this author, this one probably won’t be a repeat read for me.

[Lauren Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't read this author before. But I will read more. I loved this book so much. It kept me interested and wanting more the whole way through. They had their ups and downs but managed to get through them. The story had love and drama. I loved the storyline and characters so much. I can't wait to read more about them.