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Write Your Own Script
A sizzling lesbian romance about finding out what’s important in life. Beloved famous British actress Tamsyn Harris is in her early fifties and works hard to prove she’s still got “it”, despite her age. That means never revealing she’s a lesbian, for fear it would threaten her acclaimed career. After an on-set incident blows up, she disappears to a retreat to lay low for a while. Maggie Cooper is a successful author with two pseudonyms and suffering from burn out. It’s hard enough trying to maintain both worlds, let alone keep them separate from real life. After checking herself into a retreat in Norfolk, the last thing she expects to find is the respected, beautiful actress she’s had a crush on her whole life. As passion sweeps them up, they agree it can only be a holiday fling. But is that enough? Can they just return to their lives and leave each other behind?
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2019
29 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Brooks
23 books320 followersA.L. Brooks was born in the UK but currently resides in Frankfurt, Germany, and over the years she has lived in places as far afield as Aberdeen and Australia. She works 9–5 in corporate financial systems and her dream is to take early retirement. Like, tomorrow, please. She loves her gym membership, and is very grateful for it as she also loves dark chocolate. She enjoys drinking good wine and craft beer, trying out new recipes to cook, and learning German. Travelling around the world and reading lots and lots (and lots) of books are also things that fight for time with her writing. Yep, she really needs that early retirement.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
April 4, 2019
3.75 Stars. I have read all of Brooks' books except for The Club, and found this book to be my favorite of hers. This is actually the second Hollywood romance I have read in a row and I’m happy to say this was much more up my alley. I think this will be widely enjoyed by romance fans.
There are quite a few great reviews out that give a good summary so I’m going to skip that. I want to go right into what I enjoyed about the book. The romantic relationship between the two mains, a writer and actress, is what makes this book shine. While the character might have jumped into bed quickly, the connection and intimacy is so well done it doesn’t matter. These two characters built a relationship from sex and it actually worked. The more their walls went down and the intimacy went up, their connection grew stronger. This is what I look for in good sex scenes, to see that connection strengthen and Brooks did a great job writing it.
I do have to admit I felt the book slowed a little for me during times when they mains where not together. Their connection is the star of the book so when it’s not front and certain I didn’t care for those parts as much. I also wanted to see a little more about what happened at the end. I wish a few filler middle parts were cut and the story extended, but this is a mild complaint.
If you like Hollywood romances, don’t pass this one up. If you like romance with a strong intimate connection, this one is for you. This one is worth the read and I’m excited to see where Brooks goes next.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
There are quite a few great reviews out that give a good summary so I’m going to skip that. I want to go right into what I enjoyed about the book. The romantic relationship between the two mains, a writer and actress, is what makes this book shine. While the character might have jumped into bed quickly, the connection and intimacy is so well done it doesn’t matter. These two characters built a relationship from sex and it actually worked. The more their walls went down and the intimacy went up, their connection grew stronger. This is what I look for in good sex scenes, to see that connection strengthen and Brooks did a great job writing it.
I do have to admit I felt the book slowed a little for me during times when they mains where not together. Their connection is the star of the book so when it’s not front and certain I didn’t care for those parts as much. I also wanted to see a little more about what happened at the end. I wish a few filler middle parts were cut and the story extended, but this is a mild complaint.
If you like Hollywood romances, don’t pass this one up. If you like romance with a strong intimate connection, this one is for you. This one is worth the read and I’m excited to see where Brooks goes next.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
May 14, 2020
Just as good the 2nd time around.
Love this story and can't wait to read Dare To Love.
Love this story and can't wait to read Dare To Love.
This is the first book I've read from this author and I was blown away. This could be the best book I've read this year, and it's going straight onto the re-read shelf.
March 29, 2019
I’m already a fan of Brooks’ writing so any new book by her comes with expectations. The trope of a closeted celebrity paired with a writer is a fairly common one and I often find the story can go either way for me, particularly with regard to the celebrity. Write Your Own Script was definitely a positive experience. Tamsyn Harris is in her early fifties, still gorgeous and still acting in spite of the ageism that surrounds her daily. She’s highly rated but she’s also kept her sexual orientation a secret her entire life. A blow up with her current director sends her off for a quiet retreat to calm down and make some decisions. She’s not entirely alone though; a nearby cottage has been rented out to Maggie Cooper, a writer struggling to overcome burnout.
Their attraction for each other is palpable from their first meeting and their ensuing interactions are witty, tense and flirty. The telling of their story probably leans more towards being an erotic romance and the intimacy between them sizzles with chemistry and fabulously well-written sex scenes. Some of the things that I really appreciated in this novel are that the characters are older, there’s a lovely deviation from the most common format, great dialogue with numerous characters and the little bit of angst is external, rather than between them. Oh, and they make each other laugh.
One thing has bothered me regarding the plot and that is . There’s a nice normalcy brought to both characters which makes them all the more likeable. I thoroughly enjoyed this and I look forward to reading more by Brooks.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Their attraction for each other is palpable from their first meeting and their ensuing interactions are witty, tense and flirty. The telling of their story probably leans more towards being an erotic romance and the intimacy between them sizzles with chemistry and fabulously well-written sex scenes. Some of the things that I really appreciated in this novel are that the characters are older, there’s a lovely deviation from the most common format, great dialogue with numerous characters and the little bit of angst is external, rather than between them. Oh, and they make each other laugh.
One thing has bothered me regarding the plot and that is . There’s a nice normalcy brought to both characters which makes them all the more likeable. I thoroughly enjoyed this and I look forward to reading more by Brooks.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
December 12, 2024
*I received this book from Ylva Publishing for an honest review*
This book involves two lesbians who are both: 1) accomplished – successful (and both characters know of the other – at least the ‘fame’ version of the other); 2) older than me. It is neat, or something like that, to read about a couple who are older (not that much older) than me, than read yet another book that joins the many – soo many – other books I’ve read with couplings of people who could be, or at least are at the age where they could be, my children.
One of these two main point of view women is in her . . . I believe late forties, while the other is in her early fifties. The late forties woman is Maggie Cooper – ‘a successful author with two pseudonyms’ (one a very successful name in historical fiction (the heaving bosoms and . . . I forgot what the man part was described, MF historical fiction) and the other a very successful name in lesbian romance) happens to be ‘vacationing’ in the area because she’s burnt out and needs to try to ‘refresh’ herself (also has writers block). The other woman, the one in her fifties, is a wildly successful British actress named Tamsyn Harris with many awards – but one who is also aging into a difficult place to be as an actress (book describes it well enough, I’ll just say ‘less parts for women in their 50s), and one who has never really lived their own life – deep into the closest is she. The book opens with her ‘breaking’ under the pressure, and ending up being forced to take a ‘retreat’ – her manager (I think that was her manager) set her up for a couple of weeks in a cabin in the woods.
I probably should have picked up on this potential aspect of the book just by the nature of the book – two ‘hot’ lesbians are in a location wherein they are the only two ‘renters’ in a very large area of land (though they are not the only people there, as there’s at least one more – the owner of ‘the main house’, and conceivably there might be more in that house), with nothing much to do except walk a lot, stare at ducks, eat/cook/sleep/read/watch tv/play on the computer/etc.etc. (right, if I’d been one of the two women, I’d probably never actually bumped into the other with all these other distractions, but that’s going down a path I did not mean to go down with this paragraph). I lost this paragraph – happens to me. The thing I was boiling down to was: the nature of the situation was something of a hint, that I didn’t pick up on prior to starting the book, that there might be a heavier emphasis on sex than I’d otherwise have expected.
That aspect popped up immediately and caused me to make an update about how everything suddenly became super awkward. And no – while I think of it as ‘too fast first meeting’, their actual first meeting was actually neat enough to read – they both were outside their cabin walking the trails, spotted each other, continued with their lives (with one almost having a fan moment (Maggie has been a huge fan of Tamsyn since Maggie was a teenager); while the other accidentally allowed a certain amount of hungry lust be revealed in her eyes and body). No, it was later that same day, well night, when Tamsyn wandered over to Maggie’s place – in the pouring rain, for kindling. And I started chanting things in my head like ‘noo no no, stop stop, awkward, just meet! Give it time! Noooo not both instant-lust and instant- fulfillment! Nooooo!’ It was . . . awkward.
Things settled down, largely, though the book still seemed more obsessed with sex (both thinking about it a lot and stuff, less sexy-times, though there’s a bunch of that also) than I prefer to read.
Overall I liked how things unfolded. There were ‘obvious’ points of contention that popped up that were handled in a more reasonable manner than expected – which I liked. I liked the two main characters and . . . well . . . enjoyed the book.
Rating: 4.0
March 30 2019
This book involves two lesbians who are both: 1) accomplished – successful (and both characters know of the other – at least the ‘fame’ version of the other); 2) older than me. It is neat, or something like that, to read about a couple who are older (not that much older) than me, than read yet another book that joins the many – soo many – other books I’ve read with couplings of people who could be, or at least are at the age where they could be, my children.
One of these two main point of view women is in her . . . I believe late forties, while the other is in her early fifties. The late forties woman is Maggie Cooper – ‘a successful author with two pseudonyms’ (one a very successful name in historical fiction (the heaving bosoms and . . . I forgot what the man part was described, MF historical fiction) and the other a very successful name in lesbian romance) happens to be ‘vacationing’ in the area because she’s burnt out and needs to try to ‘refresh’ herself (also has writers block). The other woman, the one in her fifties, is a wildly successful British actress named Tamsyn Harris with many awards – but one who is also aging into a difficult place to be as an actress (book describes it well enough, I’ll just say ‘less parts for women in their 50s), and one who has never really lived their own life – deep into the closest is she. The book opens with her ‘breaking’ under the pressure, and ending up being forced to take a ‘retreat’ – her manager (I think that was her manager) set her up for a couple of weeks in a cabin in the woods.
I probably should have picked up on this potential aspect of the book just by the nature of the book – two ‘hot’ lesbians are in a location wherein they are the only two ‘renters’ in a very large area of land (though they are not the only people there, as there’s at least one more – the owner of ‘the main house’, and conceivably there might be more in that house), with nothing much to do except walk a lot, stare at ducks, eat/cook/sleep/read/watch tv/play on the computer/etc.etc. (right, if I’d been one of the two women, I’d probably never actually bumped into the other with all these other distractions, but that’s going down a path I did not mean to go down with this paragraph). I lost this paragraph – happens to me. The thing I was boiling down to was: the nature of the situation was something of a hint, that I didn’t pick up on prior to starting the book, that there might be a heavier emphasis on sex than I’d otherwise have expected.
That aspect popped up immediately and caused me to make an update about how everything suddenly became super awkward. And no – while I think of it as ‘too fast first meeting’, their actual first meeting was actually neat enough to read – they both were outside their cabin walking the trails, spotted each other, continued with their lives (with one almost having a fan moment (Maggie has been a huge fan of Tamsyn since Maggie was a teenager); while the other accidentally allowed a certain amount of hungry lust be revealed in her eyes and body). No, it was later that same day, well night, when Tamsyn wandered over to Maggie’s place – in the pouring rain, for kindling. And I started chanting things in my head like ‘noo no no, stop stop, awkward, just meet! Give it time! Noooo not both instant-lust and instant- fulfillment! Nooooo!’ It was . . . awkward.
Things settled down, largely, though the book still seemed more obsessed with sex (both thinking about it a lot and stuff, less sexy-times, though there’s a bunch of that also) than I prefer to read.
Overall I liked how things unfolded. There were ‘obvious’ points of contention that popped up that were handled in a more reasonable manner than expected – which I liked. I liked the two main characters and . . . well . . . enjoyed the book.
Rating: 4.0
March 30 2019
August 17, 2019
So this is a very solid read that I really enjoyed! It’s a celebrity book but because both MCs are around their 50s, the pace of their lifestyle is quite different than what you can expect from a celebrity life in other books. There’s this maturity level and depth in thinking of their future that I really thought the author was very good at!
So this started off as a vacation/retreat fling but the connection and emotions were built very nicely bit by bit. Let’s just say it was very believable.. the sex scenes were very good but this author I would say is very talented on this front :)
The only thing that i would’ve loved to see is a better ending as I felt it was a bit rushed. I mean I loved the struggle they were both in, due to the fact that one of the MCs was in the closet. Even though that was resolved, (don’t want to add spoilers so won’t mention how), I just wanted a bit more there. Just a glimpse of their life after would’ve been great!
I totally recommend this read! It’s got emotions, good sex scenes, and a very nice dialogue between the characters :)
“I received an ARC for an honest review.”
So this started off as a vacation/retreat fling but the connection and emotions were built very nicely bit by bit. Let’s just say it was very believable.. the sex scenes were very good but this author I would say is very talented on this front :)
The only thing that i would’ve loved to see is a better ending as I felt it was a bit rushed. I mean I loved the struggle they were both in, due to the fact that one of the MCs was in the closet. Even though that was resolved, (don’t want to add spoilers so won’t mention how), I just wanted a bit more there. Just a glimpse of their life after would’ve been great!
I totally recommend this read! It’s got emotions, good sex scenes, and a very nice dialogue between the characters :)
“I received an ARC for an honest review.”
April 3, 2019
I have never read anything by this author before. After liking this one so much, I'm going to go hunt down some of her other books.
Tamsyn bloody Harris is a 50+ famous actress who has to go on a solo retreat to calm down after lashing out at her director for ageism. There, she meets author Maggie, who helps her calm down (if-you-know-what-I-mean). Tamsyn has had flings before, but there is just something about this woman that has her all confused inside. BUT IT JUST CANNOT BE. Why? Because the main starlet is obvs in the closet due to her career!
I'm not crying, YOU'RE crying! Right smack in the middle, I almost had an emotional breakdown. Pretty sure I felt like there was no purpose in life for a bit. But then there was Part 2 and it breathed life back into my soul again.
There were quite a few steamy scenes as you would expect with a book centered around a holiday fling. They were written with enough emotion and story embedded that they didn't bother me so much.
I wasn't on board for how big of a fan Maggie was described to be. And I'm not sure that drama with Tamsyn's actress friend was necessary.
I recommend this book to those who love romance, the U.K., crying, holidays, heartbreak, cottages, angst, celebrities, flings, and fish pie.
I received an ARC from YLVA Publishing for an honest review
Tamsyn bloody Harris is a 50+ famous actress who has to go on a solo retreat to calm down after lashing out at her director for ageism. There, she meets author Maggie, who helps her calm down (if-you-know-what-I-mean). Tamsyn has had flings before, but there is just something about this woman that has her all confused inside. BUT IT JUST CANNOT BE. Why? Because the main starlet is obvs in the closet due to her career!
I'm not crying, YOU'RE crying! Right smack in the middle, I almost had an emotional breakdown. Pretty sure I felt like there was no purpose in life for a bit. But then there was Part 2 and it breathed life back into my soul again.
There were quite a few steamy scenes as you would expect with a book centered around a holiday fling. They were written with enough emotion and story embedded that they didn't bother me so much.
I wasn't on board for how big of a fan Maggie was described to be. And I'm not sure that drama with Tamsyn's actress friend was necessary.
I recommend this book to those who love romance, the U.K., crying, holidays, heartbreak, cottages, angst, celebrities, flings, and fish pie.
I received an ARC from YLVA Publishing for an honest review
April 4, 2019
I enjoyed it. I only read two books by this author but I'm planning to read more.
Writing was excellent but there wasn't anything new in plot. Closeted Actress in her early 50s meeting a writer(40s)on vacation.
This book is in two parts. In part one we see their meeting and holiday fling and part 2 shows their relationship in real world.
Their romance is really sweet. I liked both characters and secondary characters are great too. I'm happy to see an agent not from hell. Overall it was a nice read.
Writing was excellent but there wasn't anything new in plot. Closeted Actress in her early 50s meeting a writer(40s)on vacation.
This book is in two parts. In part one we see their meeting and holiday fling and part 2 shows their relationship in real world.
Their romance is really sweet. I liked both characters and secondary characters are great too. I'm happy to see an agent not from hell. Overall it was a nice read.
April 3, 2019
This is my fifth novel by A. L. Brooks and I liked them all. So whenever Brooks will bring on a new book I’ll definitely be reading it.
The setup in this one is nothing new, closeted actress meets writer, but what I really loved was that the MCs are grown up women in her late 40s, early 50s with yearlong successful careers. They meet at a retreat, where they are the only guests at two secluded cabins in the Norfolk area. During the daily strolls through the forest and around the lake, they occasionally meet each other. There is an instant attraction and it didn’t last long till they got to know themselves very well – physically. There are some hot and steamy sex scenes, beautifully written and enjoyable, maybe not when you sit in a public place, but whatever you like. This part is more of an erotic romance, but it goes back to just romance. There are also witty dialogues and some insides in the thinking of both characters. And there is the lovely dog Gizmo.
I liked that it’s written from both characters POV. I always want to know what they both are thinking and feeling, what experiences they had from their life and where they want to go. There are some great dialogues with secondary characters and between them. The struggles Tamsyn has to overcome, after fearing of losing her assignments for the last thirty years, if the public will discover she’s a lesbian. Is she willing to risk everything for Maggie? Is she tired enough of always hiding her real personality? See for yourself. I very much enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to the next from A. L- Brooks.
My rating 4 stars.
Many thanks to Ylva Publishing for receiving an ARC for an honest review.
The setup in this one is nothing new, closeted actress meets writer, but what I really loved was that the MCs are grown up women in her late 40s, early 50s with yearlong successful careers. They meet at a retreat, where they are the only guests at two secluded cabins in the Norfolk area. During the daily strolls through the forest and around the lake, they occasionally meet each other. There is an instant attraction and it didn’t last long till they got to know themselves very well – physically. There are some hot and steamy sex scenes, beautifully written and enjoyable, maybe not when you sit in a public place, but whatever you like. This part is more of an erotic romance, but it goes back to just romance. There are also witty dialogues and some insides in the thinking of both characters. And there is the lovely dog Gizmo.
I liked that it’s written from both characters POV. I always want to know what they both are thinking and feeling, what experiences they had from their life and where they want to go. There are some great dialogues with secondary characters and between them. The struggles Tamsyn has to overcome, after fearing of losing her assignments for the last thirty years, if the public will discover she’s a lesbian. Is she willing to risk everything for Maggie? Is she tired enough of always hiding her real personality? See for yourself. I very much enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to the next from A. L- Brooks.
My rating 4 stars.
Many thanks to Ylva Publishing for receiving an ARC for an honest review.
April 6, 2019
I'm such a sucker for these Hollywood hookup books. So what makes this one any different? First there's the age of the main characters. What makes this age range such a good choice by the author is the level of maturity that can be displayed by the characters when dealing with relationships. Or as Maggie points out during a conversation with her sister:
"...being with her also did me a favour because as a result I understand that I need to be with someone who knows themselves and is living authentically."
“...at my age I’m not going to be giving up all that’s important to me for a partner who can’t accept me and my life. I’d rather be alone.”
As (extremely) hot as them hooking up was however I do think their initial coupling happened a little too fast. They hadn't even know each other for 12 hours before reenacting the hotel scene from Carol.
Despite feeling a little rushed in the beginning, the story began to drag a little towards the end. I understand the need for the characters to be apart but did it need to be stretched out that long? The other pacing issue I had was with Tamsyn's reluctance to coming out. The switch from being more closeted than John Travolta to attending a pride parade felt too abrupt somehow.
I really wish this book had a couple extra chapters since I wanted more time between Maggie's overprotective sister Ruth and Tamsin and of course I wanted to know how things ended with Lesley. Maybe the author could have left one or two of those champagne scenes out. I was surprised Tamsin wasn't constantly smelling like a liquor store after an earthquake.
Regardless of its pacing issues, I really liked this book and its characters. Certainly give this a chance if like me you're a sucker for celebs getting their lady lovin' on.
"...being with her also did me a favour because as a result I understand that I need to be with someone who knows themselves and is living authentically."
“...at my age I’m not going to be giving up all that’s important to me for a partner who can’t accept me and my life. I’d rather be alone.”
As (extremely) hot as them hooking up was however I do think their initial coupling happened a little too fast. They hadn't even know each other for 12 hours before reenacting the hotel scene from Carol.
Despite feeling a little rushed in the beginning, the story began to drag a little towards the end. I understand the need for the characters to be apart but did it need to be stretched out that long? The other pacing issue I had was with Tamsyn's reluctance to coming out. The switch from being more closeted than John Travolta to attending a pride parade felt too abrupt somehow.
I really wish this book had a couple extra chapters since I wanted more time between Maggie's overprotective sister Ruth and Tamsin and of course I wanted to know how things ended with Lesley. Maybe the author could have left one or two of those champagne scenes out. I was surprised Tamsin wasn't constantly smelling like a liquor store after an earthquake.
Regardless of its pacing issues, I really liked this book and its characters. Certainly give this a chance if like me you're a sucker for celebs getting their lady lovin' on.
July 25, 2021
Over all I enjoyed reading this book. I’ve read others by Brooks and enjoyed them too, so my expectations of this book were quite high, especially as there were quite a few good reviews. The first part of the book flowed very well and lived up to my expectations, but then came part two. That disappointed me initially. The story slowed down and felt much more cliche to me. Fortunately that changed after reading on and I started to very much enjoy the book again. It’s a book that’s very low on angst, which I like. There is a good build up of the romance between the MC’s, though this was of course a case of instant attraction. I loved the main and supporting characters and the way they communicated. All in all a 4 star book for me.
Still 4 solid stars.
Read this again and liked it again. Very nice read.
Still 4 solid stars.
Read this again and liked it again. Very nice read.
April 5, 2019
3.5 stars. A.L. Brooks writes very well as usual but the book didn't hit my personal preferences. They spend too much of the book apart and it lacks emotional depth - I'm not sure why they fell in love beyond the physical. I do require a bit more emotional development than this in my reading. But otherwise, it's a well-executed actorXwriter trope that wasn't overly predictable.
June 11, 2023
This was my first A.L. Brooks book and certainly won't be my last. I love a good celebrity romance - and this one had that, plus an added bonus of a successful writer who also writes lesfic under a different pen name. Fun combination.
They both go away to a remote, private location for some solitude. Maggie is struggling with writer's block, and Tamsyn has a big dust-up with a director on set and needs some distance to determine how to move forward. They unexpectedly run into one another while out walking and Maggie can't help but recognize the BAFTA and Emmy winning star. A woman she's been a huge fan of practically her entire life. But she allows Tamsyn her space until they run into each other again - and neither can deny the mutual attraction they feel. But both have such completely different lives - and Tamsyn is closeted. Surely nothing could come of it, right?
I am a fan of stories where people strongly connect, but aren't in positions to be together. Because angst. It was also appealing to me that Tamsyn was 52 and Maggie in her late 40s. How often does THAT happen? Tamsyn has long feared that coming out will affect her career and Maggie isn't without her own secrets. Still - I longed for them to figure out a way to be together. Their chemistry is off the charts! This was right up my alley. Looking forward to more by Brooks.
They both go away to a remote, private location for some solitude. Maggie is struggling with writer's block, and Tamsyn has a big dust-up with a director on set and needs some distance to determine how to move forward. They unexpectedly run into one another while out walking and Maggie can't help but recognize the BAFTA and Emmy winning star. A woman she's been a huge fan of practically her entire life. But she allows Tamsyn her space until they run into each other again - and neither can deny the mutual attraction they feel. But both have such completely different lives - and Tamsyn is closeted. Surely nothing could come of it, right?
I am a fan of stories where people strongly connect, but aren't in positions to be together. Because angst. It was also appealing to me that Tamsyn was 52 and Maggie in her late 40s. How often does THAT happen? Tamsyn has long feared that coming out will affect her career and Maggie isn't without her own secrets. Still - I longed for them to figure out a way to be together. Their chemistry is off the charts! This was right up my alley. Looking forward to more by Brooks.
May 6, 2019
I give this one 3.5*. Older romances have never been one of my favorites due to me picturing people my parents age and it just doesnt sit right with me (yes not exactly mature of me but eh it is what it is). However, that's not what got me with this book. The premise is great and the time in the cabins was really good too. The story just seemed to drag a bit more me. There was a lot of noy too much happening and I got bored at times. Now, I did enjoy certain parts of the story and wished certain aspects and situations were played up more but for an overall read it was pretty good. Free read with Scribd so also a plus.
April 2, 2019
A.L. Brooks' "Write Your Own Script," is the latest celebrity romance out there in lesbian fiction but with a slight twist. It's a mature romance where the protagonists are in their late 40s, early 50s, which I thought was interesting to explore. Plus, Brooks' style of telling this tale was very grounded. I felt that there was a sense of calmness in the handling of the epiphany, coming out, taking a chance on living in love, truth, openness and being one's true self between the two protagonists throughout the story. Maybe because of the characters' age, life experience?
Speaking of, this mature romance was between Tamsyn, a deeply closeted, famous and successful, veteran actor and Maggie, an equally well-known, successful, award-winning, published author, an out lesbian in herself but as a writer, she published under two different pseudonyms - one for her mainstream fiction publications and the other for her lesbian fiction ones. Like Tamsyn, she was in the closet - but not "that" kind of closet, mind! She was closeted about writing for lesbian fiction, despite being equally famous and successful in that market, too, because of fear of any potential backlash against her bread-and-butter mainstream bestselling books. Hence, the need for two separate pen names! Yup, mum was the word when it came to her split personalities in the literary world!
Brooks had divided the story into two parts....
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
*An ARC copy of this book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Speaking of, this mature romance was between Tamsyn, a deeply closeted, famous and successful, veteran actor and Maggie, an equally well-known, successful, award-winning, published author, an out lesbian in herself but as a writer, she published under two different pseudonyms - one for her mainstream fiction publications and the other for her lesbian fiction ones. Like Tamsyn, she was in the closet - but not "that" kind of closet, mind! She was closeted about writing for lesbian fiction, despite being equally famous and successful in that market, too, because of fear of any potential backlash against her bread-and-butter mainstream bestselling books. Hence, the need for two separate pen names! Yup, mum was the word when it came to her split personalities in the literary world!
Brooks had divided the story into two parts....
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
*An ARC copy of this book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
May 10, 2019
What a fantastic story! Loved every minute of it.
Tamsyn is a famous actress who has kept her sexuality a secret all through her fame and fortune. That is until she meets Maggie Cooper, the novelist who is staying at the same getaway location to get away from the world. The spark is there from the beginning but Tamsyn is reluctant to fall for a woman when she can’t give her what she deserves. But when the chemistry is indisputable and both women are at war with their feelings, it’s not going to be easy to walk away at the end of the break.
This was the first book to read by A.L. Brooks and as with every new author, I go in with trepidation but I adored this story. It was fantastic from start to finish. The pace was perfect, the characters were well developed and entirely believable and best part was the lovely storyline that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I loved Tamsyn, she had such a complex identity but hadn’t become tainted by her fame. She still enjoyed the simple things while out of the limelight. I felt sorry for her as she had to hide in the closet and deny her sexuality but she made a choice and sure was sticking to it. Until Maggie. Oh, Maggie… if there ever was a woman to sweep Tamsyn off her feet it was Maggie. I think I fell for Maggie a little by the end of the book. She is so warm and caring while being effortlessly sexy and smart as a whip. Tamsyn never stood a chance really.
The sex scenes were hot and so very sexy… quite the awakening for both characters. Their chemistry was off the chart in and out bed but they also had a sweetness to them at times too that made their connection even more intimate and about more than sex.
I absolutely loved it. I’m really hoping Tamsyn’s agent, Carmen gets her own story (she so needs to jump the fence) because I want more from all these characters…
5 stars
Tamsyn is a famous actress who has kept her sexuality a secret all through her fame and fortune. That is until she meets Maggie Cooper, the novelist who is staying at the same getaway location to get away from the world. The spark is there from the beginning but Tamsyn is reluctant to fall for a woman when she can’t give her what she deserves. But when the chemistry is indisputable and both women are at war with their feelings, it’s not going to be easy to walk away at the end of the break.
This was the first book to read by A.L. Brooks and as with every new author, I go in with trepidation but I adored this story. It was fantastic from start to finish. The pace was perfect, the characters were well developed and entirely believable and best part was the lovely storyline that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I loved Tamsyn, she had such a complex identity but hadn’t become tainted by her fame. She still enjoyed the simple things while out of the limelight. I felt sorry for her as she had to hide in the closet and deny her sexuality but she made a choice and sure was sticking to it. Until Maggie. Oh, Maggie… if there ever was a woman to sweep Tamsyn off her feet it was Maggie. I think I fell for Maggie a little by the end of the book. She is so warm and caring while being effortlessly sexy and smart as a whip. Tamsyn never stood a chance really.
The sex scenes were hot and so very sexy… quite the awakening for both characters. Their chemistry was off the chart in and out bed but they also had a sweetness to them at times too that made their connection even more intimate and about more than sex.
I absolutely loved it. I’m really hoping Tamsyn’s agent, Carmen gets her own story (she so needs to jump the fence) because I want more from all these characters…
5 stars
April 12, 2019
I really enjoyed reading Write Your Own Script by A.L Brooks. This is a contemporary romance about two women in their late forties and early fifties; both of them successful in their own lives, and both going through a crisis of sorts. British actress Tamsyn Harris, at fifty-two has reached that awful time in her career, often called the dead zone, when she is no longer being automatically offered the starring roles often given to younger actresses, but is not old enough to get the equally big roles for more mature celebrities. She feels she has to work twice as hard just to keep to the job level she is used to. She must also keep secret the fact that she is a lesbian, a truth she has managed to hide for over thirty years. Maggie Cooper is an award winning author battling a major case of burn out. Both women decide to take a few weeks vacation in a secluded area to regroup and think through their problems. What they end up finding is each other.
Both characters are very well written. They both feel real. You can see they are mature and successful in their lives. You can see their good points and their faults. I really like reading about characters that are not perfect. In fact, there were several places in the book where I wanted to just smack Tamsyn upside the head and tell her to open her eyes and see what she was doing.
I also like how the author wrote this book in two parts. The first part deals with the characters when they were in their retreat, and the second part of the novel takes place after they both return to their “real” lives. Each part has a different feel to it, and both parts complement each other. It was the perfect way to handle this story.
If you love a good romance with strong, mature characters, you will want to read this story.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections:
https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
Both characters are very well written. They both feel real. You can see they are mature and successful in their lives. You can see their good points and their faults. I really like reading about characters that are not perfect. In fact, there were several places in the book where I wanted to just smack Tamsyn upside the head and tell her to open her eyes and see what she was doing.
I also like how the author wrote this book in two parts. The first part deals with the characters when they were in their retreat, and the second part of the novel takes place after they both return to their “real” lives. Each part has a different feel to it, and both parts complement each other. It was the perfect way to handle this story.
If you love a good romance with strong, mature characters, you will want to read this story.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections:
https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
August 6, 2020
3.75* This book has celebrity-finds-love + holiday fling + coming out of the closet tropes all rolled into one. This time it's Tamsyn, an accomplished actress in her early 50's, who meets Maggie, a fairly popular author, while on break in Norfolk. There's instant attraction between the two. Problem is, Tamsyn in very deeply in the closet - almost to Narnia, as the character Maggie described.
This book is sweet and sexy but also deals with several social issues such as coming out, ageism, and sexism. Tamsyn's fears about her career if she does come out of the closet, are real. Her best friend had a bad experience many years ago. Maggie's also a wonderful character. She has her own successful career and quite confident in her sexuality. Amidst burnout and writer's block, she is trying to figure out the direction she wants her career to go. They each have to navigate their personal issues before deciding to go through with their relationship.
This book is sweet and sexy but also deals with several social issues such as coming out, ageism, and sexism. Tamsyn's fears about her career if she does come out of the closet, are real. Her best friend had a bad experience many years ago. Maggie's also a wonderful character. She has her own successful career and quite confident in her sexuality. Amidst burnout and writer's block, she is trying to figure out the direction she wants her career to go. They each have to navigate their personal issues before deciding to go through with their relationship.
October 11, 2019
4.5 stars
Great story, well paced, with interesting characters and good emotional depth. Loved the location, the cottages and isolation provided a lovely backdrop to the story and the seclusion made for a strongly emotive setting.
The gradual interaction and engagement between the characters made a refreshing change from the normal insta-romance, as did the maturity of the characters and their need for personal development and growth to get to a place they could both ‘come-out’ of seclusion.
Well written, thoroughly enjoyable read and highly recommended.
Great story, well paced, with interesting characters and good emotional depth. Loved the location, the cottages and isolation provided a lovely backdrop to the story and the seclusion made for a strongly emotive setting.
The gradual interaction and engagement between the characters made a refreshing change from the normal insta-romance, as did the maturity of the characters and their need for personal development and growth to get to a place they could both ‘come-out’ of seclusion.
Well written, thoroughly enjoyable read and highly recommended.
July 21, 2019
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.
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/writ...
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/writ...
October 24, 2019
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢🎬🎥🎞📘👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
That’s in exchange of an honest review that I received an ARC of « Write Your Own Script » from Ylva (Thank you for that) …
So, here it is !!
The story focuses on Tamsyn Harris a successful, worl famous, very closeted 52 years old veteran actress who must struggle to avoid being outed but also to stay at the top , and Maggie Cooper, well-known, successful & award-winning 49 years old author but who writes under 2 pen names - one for her mainstream historical fiction books and the other for her lesbian fiction novels. She’s an out lesbian but, despite being equally famous and successful in that market, she’s closeted about writing lesbian fictions because she fears a backlash against her mainstream bestselling books…Maggie has a crush on Tamsyn since her teen age … They meet while being both in a retreat in Norfolk where they can both have well needed « alone time » … Tamsyn following an on-set incident (which happened while fighting an umpteenth attack of ageism) and Maggie trying to resolve her writter’s block . Both need to focus on what really matters in their life .. their meeting will spice the equation .. ‘cause they now need to determine if it’s their careers or the perspective of a relationship and true love…
My rating : 3.5 ⭐️
The PROS :
° The title … it makes a lot of sense in more than one way
° The fact that both MCs are practical, realistic and grounded middle-aged women (… who stayed natural !!!)
° The inner battles the MCs both need to lead against themselves to make their respective coming out (even if Maggie isn’t in « "that" kind of closet » ..) and be able to truly be themselves once and for all …
° The the coming out issue : Should it be a personal decision or, like in the novel, the result of the choice of some LGBT activists (more « extremists » if you ask me) who think it could be « good for the cause »?? Of course from my POV, since I’ve been outed myself (by my own straight twin sister at a period when I was far from being ready …), I can only say this : Everyone should be able to « Write Their Own Script » !!! Seriously, it’s a personal matter (and only this !!). Even if it’s complicated and takes time, NOONE has the right to decide for you about such a personal thing (no matter the excuse they give to explain their act), you need to do this at your own pace, in your own terms and only when you feel ready… 💜💙💚💛🧡❤️
° The change of scenery is highly appreciated since I’m more used to read some novels located in the US and Australia …and also because it reminded me my own trips in the UK and how beautiful it is over there …
° The deep chemistery between the MCs and the hot lovemaking scenes … (Ok I confess, sometimes I wondered if I was reading an erotic novel instead of a romance … LOL)
° the little touches of subtile humor.
° Gizmo … I think he’s the strongest, funniest and more likeable secondary character in the novel (without forgetting lil Snakey, of course !!) … He is an anchor first for Maggie only but quickly becomes one for Tamsyn as well even if she isn’t aware of that until their break …
The CONS 😞 :
° The 8 months gap the MCs were appart. Think it would have been interesting to know more about what really happened to them once they left their retreat …
° The lack of a proper epilogue => It could have been great to know a bit more about all the repercutions that Tamsyn’s coming out had in the daily life of all the characters (including the likeable or not secondary ones) … And what about Maggie’s career ?? She had to say goodbye to a pen name and, seeemingly create a new one for the crime genre she wanted to try … but what about her Maddie Jones pen name …She was supposed to come out about her … And since she’s a weel know author + the fact that her latest novel was clearly based on their own story, logically Tamsyn’s couming out would probably have increase the sells of the novel, right ?? Not having those information gives the feeling that the novel is not really finished (I didn’t see « The End » written BTW …) and it’s quite frustrating …
° Don’t get me wrong, I’m proud that some products from my motherland have such notoriety all around the world and, yeah, some brands are pretty good (I appreciate a flute from time to time when the brand is one of the few I can actually drink without having some painful muscular cramps …) BUT … seriously … I wonder why some people seem to be obsessed with champagne … => Tamsyn’s pronounced taste for this beverage+ the fact she drinks champagne almost every single day, not only when she host or meet someone for job but even when she’s alone at home (even after a « sober diner » in a restaurant), it shows her more like an alcoholic than a distinguished & refined lady …
Also in the cons (I think the 2 following points are the result of my beta reader status -- not for this author) :
° Some words and expressions must be the author’s favorite. It’s great to have some beloved wording but it becomes a bit annoying / boring for the reader (aka me in this case … and maybe some others too) when a few of them come back regularly in the novel. Think using some synonyms would have been better ( and much appreciated ,at least by myself)
° That’s not’ the 1st time I read some novel in which « bloody » is used (usually as an enhancer …) … When it’s used with parcimony (so, just a couple times all the novel long) it doesn’t bother me more than that but when it’s used on too numerous occasions like in this book (and it’s not even the worst book I’ve read with this wording issue…), I can’t even begin to tell you how it gets on my nerves. Seriously, the characters (because of their education, their jobs and status)are supposed to have what I’d call « a pure and distinguished English from Great Britain » but they regularly express themsselves in an even less refine way than a jackaroo using slang Aussie English …
If I had to make a very short and quite different version of my review it’d be something like this :
Did I enjoy this book? => Yes, globally…
Did I find the characters believable in their situations and actions? => Yes
Is this book now included in my « must be re-read »-list? => Not for now ..
Will I purchase the paperback? => Maybe, someday …
Would I read another book by this author? => Yes …
Would I recommend this book => Yes … to all the celebrity and/or middle-aged women and/or late coming out stories fans
OK .. Guys and gals, since you have to make your own opinion … Grab your own copy & enjoy (or not) your reading …
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢🎬🎥🎞📘👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
That’s in exchange of an honest review that I received an ARC of « Write Your Own Script » from Ylva (Thank you for that) …
So, here it is !!
The story focuses on Tamsyn Harris a successful, worl famous, very closeted 52 years old veteran actress who must struggle to avoid being outed but also to stay at the top , and Maggie Cooper, well-known, successful & award-winning 49 years old author but who writes under 2 pen names - one for her mainstream historical fiction books and the other for her lesbian fiction novels. She’s an out lesbian but, despite being equally famous and successful in that market, she’s closeted about writing lesbian fictions because she fears a backlash against her mainstream bestselling books…Maggie has a crush on Tamsyn since her teen age … They meet while being both in a retreat in Norfolk where they can both have well needed « alone time » … Tamsyn following an on-set incident (which happened while fighting an umpteenth attack of ageism) and Maggie trying to resolve her writter’s block . Both need to focus on what really matters in their life .. their meeting will spice the equation .. ‘cause they now need to determine if it’s their careers or the perspective of a relationship and true love…
My rating : 3.5 ⭐️
The PROS :
° The title … it makes a lot of sense in more than one way
° The fact that both MCs are practical, realistic and grounded middle-aged women (… who stayed natural !!!)
° The inner battles the MCs both need to lead against themselves to make their respective coming out (even if Maggie isn’t in « "that" kind of closet » ..) and be able to truly be themselves once and for all …
° The the coming out issue : Should it be a personal decision or, like in the novel, the result of the choice of some LGBT activists (more « extremists » if you ask me) who think it could be « good for the cause »?? Of course from my POV, since I’ve been outed myself (by my own straight twin sister at a period when I was far from being ready …), I can only say this : Everyone should be able to « Write Their Own Script » !!! Seriously, it’s a personal matter (and only this !!). Even if it’s complicated and takes time, NOONE has the right to decide for you about such a personal thing (no matter the excuse they give to explain their act), you need to do this at your own pace, in your own terms and only when you feel ready… 💜💙💚💛🧡❤️
° The change of scenery is highly appreciated since I’m more used to read some novels located in the US and Australia …and also because it reminded me my own trips in the UK and how beautiful it is over there …
° The deep chemistery between the MCs and the hot lovemaking scenes … (Ok I confess, sometimes I wondered if I was reading an erotic novel instead of a romance … LOL)
° the little touches of subtile humor.
° Gizmo … I think he’s the strongest, funniest and more likeable secondary character in the novel (without forgetting lil Snakey, of course !!) … He is an anchor first for Maggie only but quickly becomes one for Tamsyn as well even if she isn’t aware of that until their break …
The CONS 😞 :
° The 8 months gap the MCs were appart. Think it would have been interesting to know more about what really happened to them once they left their retreat …
° The lack of a proper epilogue => It could have been great to know a bit more about all the repercutions that Tamsyn’s coming out had in the daily life of all the characters (including the likeable or not secondary ones) … And what about Maggie’s career ?? She had to say goodbye to a pen name and, seeemingly create a new one for the crime genre she wanted to try … but what about her Maddie Jones pen name …She was supposed to come out about her … And since she’s a weel know author + the fact that her latest novel was clearly based on their own story, logically Tamsyn’s couming out would probably have increase the sells of the novel, right ?? Not having those information gives the feeling that the novel is not really finished (I didn’t see « The End » written BTW …) and it’s quite frustrating …
° Don’t get me wrong, I’m proud that some products from my motherland have such notoriety all around the world and, yeah, some brands are pretty good (I appreciate a flute from time to time when the brand is one of the few I can actually drink without having some painful muscular cramps …) BUT … seriously … I wonder why some people seem to be obsessed with champagne … => Tamsyn’s pronounced taste for this beverage+ the fact she drinks champagne almost every single day, not only when she host or meet someone for job but even when she’s alone at home (even after a « sober diner » in a restaurant), it shows her more like an alcoholic than a distinguished & refined lady …
Also in the cons (I think the 2 following points are the result of my beta reader status -- not for this author) :
° Some words and expressions must be the author’s favorite. It’s great to have some beloved wording but it becomes a bit annoying / boring for the reader (aka me in this case … and maybe some others too) when a few of them come back regularly in the novel. Think using some synonyms would have been better ( and much appreciated ,at least by myself)
° That’s not’ the 1st time I read some novel in which « bloody » is used (usually as an enhancer …) … When it’s used with parcimony (so, just a couple times all the novel long) it doesn’t bother me more than that but when it’s used on too numerous occasions like in this book (and it’s not even the worst book I’ve read with this wording issue…), I can’t even begin to tell you how it gets on my nerves. Seriously, the characters (because of their education, their jobs and status)are supposed to have what I’d call « a pure and distinguished English from Great Britain » but they regularly express themsselves in an even less refine way than a jackaroo using slang Aussie English …
If I had to make a very short and quite different version of my review it’d be something like this :
Did I enjoy this book? => Yes, globally…
Did I find the characters believable in their situations and actions? => Yes
Is this book now included in my « must be re-read »-list? => Not for now ..
Will I purchase the paperback? => Maybe, someday …
Would I read another book by this author? => Yes …
Would I recommend this book => Yes … to all the celebrity and/or middle-aged women and/or late coming out stories fans
OK .. Guys and gals, since you have to make your own opinion … Grab your own copy & enjoy (or not) your reading …
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢🎬🎥🎞📘👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
May 5, 2019
Tamsyn is a famed and successful actress, but being over 50 and a closeted lesbian, she knows she has to tread lightly in order to keep the jobs coming in a fickle industry. After a tussle with a director on a current film, she's instructed to spend a few weeks relaxing so she can come back fresh and ready to work without arguments. She's spending a few weeks at a cottage in the countryside where she meets Maggie Cooper and her dog Gizmo. The two women strike up a friendship, but neither can deny the sizzling attraction between them. They accept that all they'll ever have is a holiday fling. But what more powerful force is there than love? Can it really conquer all?
I really enjoyed this story as a whole even if I really didn't connect to the romance between Tamsyn and Maggie. I loved both woman and connected their their stories immediately. They were strong and confident in their respective careers and I respect the hell out of them. However, I thought the relationship was a little harder to connect to - the first half was many repetitive love scenes that I never quite felt them fall in love, although their chemistry was sizzling. Seriously, off the charts. I loved that about them. I enjoyed the second half of the book immensely. So much angst. So good! I'm so proud of both women for the journey they went on through this book, for the growth in their own lives and how they grew together.
I can't write a review and not mentioning the true star of this book, Gizmo!
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this story as a whole even if I really didn't connect to the romance between Tamsyn and Maggie. I loved both woman and connected their their stories immediately. They were strong and confident in their respective careers and I respect the hell out of them. However, I thought the relationship was a little harder to connect to - the first half was many repetitive love scenes that I never quite felt them fall in love, although their chemistry was sizzling. Seriously, off the charts. I loved that about them. I enjoyed the second half of the book immensely. So much angst. So good! I'm so proud of both women for the journey they went on through this book, for the growth in their own lives and how they grew together.
I can't write a review and not mentioning the true star of this book, Gizmo!
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2019
‘Write Your Own Script’ is absolutely perfect! It is romantic, sexy and endearing - and had me rooting for Tamsyn and Maggie all the way. Tamsyn is a famous actress who has spent her whole life in the closet, for fear of losing her career. When she has had just about enough and needs some time away, she retreats to the quiet of the Norfolk countryside. Maggie is a writer with a serious case of writer’s block. She hopes some time away will make her want to write again. Their meeting is one of those beautiful instances when you just know that soulmates have come together. It feels right. A.L. Brooks gets into the minds and souls of her characters and as a result she makes me love them. The emotional impact is intense and the sex is off the scale amazing. It is hot and heavy and utterly exquisite. But the main strength of this exceptionally well-written book is that she makes me care. I cared that Tamsyn was terrified about coming out. I cared that Maggie had to be true to herself. And I cared that their love would find a way. A truly uplifting story and highly recommended.
I was given this ARC for review.
I was given this ARC for review.
May 21, 2020
ARC received via Ylva in exchange for an honest review.
This is my second book by Brooks, I actually requested it because the sequel was the ARC for this month so I went back to read this because I’d somehow missed it. I enjoyed it, but it does have a few flaws.
This features MCs Tamsyn, a 50 year old actress who fears the downwards slide of ageing in the entertainment industry and has a bit of a dust up with her director. She’s sent to cool off for two weeks in a remote Norfolk location. Here, she meets Maggie, an author in her late 40s who writes hetero historical romances and lesbian fiction under two different pseudonyms. They are staying in two conveniently located cabins by a lake, which is how they meet.
Maggie knows who Tamsyn is right away, but Tamsyn only gets half the story about Maggie, so she knows she’s an author who pens historical romances. The two are pretty much instantly attracted, and even though Tamsyn will only be there two weeks, they agree to a ‘no strings’ relationship, and some hot and heavy sexy times take place. There’s also some good secondary characters in Carmen, Tamsyn’s agent and Maggie’s sister Ruth, but the subplot with Tamsyn’s friend Lesley that I didn’t think really added anything to the book
I enjoyed reading about to older MCs, who were both in the process of reevaluating their lives for different reasons. For the MCs and their relationship, the biggest issue is that Tamsyn is Narnia deep in the closest, and that Maggie falls hard for Tamsyn. Tamsyn has to work out what she wants in life, and how to make it happen. The first part of the book was really engaging and the characters had real chemistry when they’re were together but the second part dragged a bit because they weren’t together. They do reconcile of course, but it takes awhile, and then end felt a bit rushed because of it.
Overall, this is a nice romance, and anyone who enjoys the Hollywood/famous person trope should enjoy this. 3.5 stars, but I’ve rounded up.
This is my second book by Brooks, I actually requested it because the sequel was the ARC for this month so I went back to read this because I’d somehow missed it. I enjoyed it, but it does have a few flaws.
This features MCs Tamsyn, a 50 year old actress who fears the downwards slide of ageing in the entertainment industry and has a bit of a dust up with her director. She’s sent to cool off for two weeks in a remote Norfolk location. Here, she meets Maggie, an author in her late 40s who writes hetero historical romances and lesbian fiction under two different pseudonyms. They are staying in two conveniently located cabins by a lake, which is how they meet.
Maggie knows who Tamsyn is right away, but Tamsyn only gets half the story about Maggie, so she knows she’s an author who pens historical romances. The two are pretty much instantly attracted, and even though Tamsyn will only be there two weeks, they agree to a ‘no strings’ relationship, and some hot and heavy sexy times take place. There’s also some good secondary characters in Carmen, Tamsyn’s agent and Maggie’s sister Ruth, but the subplot with Tamsyn’s friend Lesley that I didn’t think really added anything to the book
I enjoyed reading about to older MCs, who were both in the process of reevaluating their lives for different reasons. For the MCs and their relationship, the biggest issue is that Tamsyn is Narnia deep in the closest, and that Maggie falls hard for Tamsyn. Tamsyn has to work out what she wants in life, and how to make it happen. The first part of the book was really engaging and the characters had real chemistry when they’re were together but the second part dragged a bit because they weren’t together. They do reconcile of course, but it takes awhile, and then end felt a bit rushed because of it.
Overall, this is a nice romance, and anyone who enjoys the Hollywood/famous person trope should enjoy this. 3.5 stars, but I’ve rounded up.
August 9, 2020
I regret not picking this up before reading Dare to Love. I was already halfway through Dare to Love when I discovered that there was a book about how Tamsyn and Maggie met and fell in love. :<
I really liked this book. I already thought that Dare to Love was good, but this is even better. It was just a bit slow at first, but I couldn't put it down anymore when they started developing feelings for each other. They pacing was believable. They didn't rush into things without first carefully thinking it over. I also appreciate that it didn't have unnecessary drama; I was so scared of what Tamsyn's friend, Lesley, might do. Overall, it made me feel happy and content. Now I feel like skimming over Dare to Love again to find their scenes together. :P
I really liked this book. I already thought that Dare to Love was good, but this is even better. It was just a bit slow at first, but I couldn't put it down anymore when they started developing feelings for each other. They pacing was believable. They didn't rush into things without first carefully thinking it over. I also appreciate that it didn't have unnecessary drama; I was so scared of what Tamsyn's friend, Lesley, might do. Overall, it made me feel happy and content. Now I feel like skimming over Dare to Love again to find their scenes together. :P
April 1, 2019
What happens when you mix together two burned out lesbian celebrities and a reclusive estate? Drama and Romance. That's what we get here, with Write Your Own Script,. When Tamsyn Harris loses it on set, she is basically put into Hollywood timeout, by being sent to recharge at a country estate in Norfolk, UK. Maggie Cooper is a famous writer who is experiencing a horrible case of writer's block, also checks into the same estate as Tamsyn. When Maggie's willful puppy decides to greet Tamsyn while they are both wandering around the grounds, sparks fly almost instantly. The two burned out stars must figure out what they really want or they might just end up losing the best thing to happen to them in a long while.
One of my favorite things about the book is that while both our leads are mega popular in their fields, they are fans of the other. Each character had their fangirl moments, even to the point of one of them sticking their foot in their mouth by being harsh on the works of the other. I loved that the doggo was there, too. He's a great book pet: smart in some areas, but really dumb in others. I love how Brooks was able to infuse descriptions of him in different lights based on who's head we were in at the time. For Maggie, he's a lovely sounding board and a solid presence even when she's shaken over some of the things Tamsyn does. For Tamsyn, he's a bit of a symbol of her budding feelings for Maggie.
One major complaint that I have, which drops the rating a lot for me, is the use of hot sex scenes then strange, forced drama, then rinse and repeat. It happens more with Maggie experiencing the fits of outrage, especially over how Tamsyn wants to handle the relationship. It's strange to me, because it is mentioned early on that Maggie is a hugely famous writer, and would experience some of the same issues that Tamsyn is going through, especially since they are both intensely private people. So, yes I could understand some of the frustration that happens, but the explosions of temper and running away? Almost all the time? No, I don't get that. It dropped some of the enjoyment from seeing these two get it together.
If you're looking for a hot and heavy romance out of the gate, this is for you. Just beware of the weird pattern of sex, drama, leaving, and then make up sex that happens a lot in this book.
I received this ARC from Ylva in exchange for my honest review.
One of my favorite things about the book is that while both our leads are mega popular in their fields, they are fans of the other. Each character had their fangirl moments, even to the point of one of them sticking their foot in their mouth by being harsh on the works of the other. I loved that the doggo was there, too. He's a great book pet: smart in some areas, but really dumb in others. I love how Brooks was able to infuse descriptions of him in different lights based on who's head we were in at the time. For Maggie, he's a lovely sounding board and a solid presence even when she's shaken over some of the things Tamsyn does. For Tamsyn, he's a bit of a symbol of her budding feelings for Maggie.
One major complaint that I have, which drops the rating a lot for me, is the use of hot sex scenes then strange, forced drama, then rinse and repeat. It happens more with Maggie experiencing the fits of outrage, especially over how Tamsyn wants to handle the relationship. It's strange to me, because it is mentioned early on that Maggie is a hugely famous writer, and would experience some of the same issues that Tamsyn is going through, especially since they are both intensely private people. So, yes I could understand some of the frustration that happens, but the explosions of temper and running away? Almost all the time? No, I don't get that. It dropped some of the enjoyment from seeing these two get it together.
If you're looking for a hot and heavy romance out of the gate, this is for you. Just beware of the weird pattern of sex, drama, leaving, and then make up sex that happens a lot in this book.
I received this ARC from Ylva in exchange for my honest review.
December 19, 2020
Great steamy scenes and characters. Loved the initial connection and story of the ladies in their early 50s.
But I got really over the whole 'im closeted, and this is just a fling and we obviously can't be more even though we're clearly in love' angle.
For me, it's a mood killer and a slog to get through, even if there's a resolution in the end with a HEA.
But I got really over the whole 'im closeted, and this is just a fling and we obviously can't be more even though we're clearly in love' angle.
For me, it's a mood killer and a slog to get through, even if there's a resolution in the end with a HEA.
April 22, 2019
I really enjoyed this romance very much. I had thought I was going off f/f romances as with recent books I have not found them that good. I'm pleased to say this has restored my faith that I can enjoy reading romance. Its down to my personal taste and how engaging I find the author's story telling style.
I liked that the 2 lead characters were older, as it sometimes feels that there is unintended ageism in lesfic. I don't recall many books with lead in 50's. Also refreshing was although one MC was in the closet, they were not insipid about it and the issues felt real. Both characters were well rounded and mature. There always has to angst, but it was handled very well.
Its a well written romance, the story flowed well and I found it a pleasure to read.
Arc received for honest review.
I liked that the 2 lead characters were older, as it sometimes feels that there is unintended ageism in lesfic. I don't recall many books with lead in 50's. Also refreshing was although one MC was in the closet, they were not insipid about it and the issues felt real. Both characters were well rounded and mature. There always has to angst, but it was handled very well.
Its a well written romance, the story flowed well and I found it a pleasure to read.
Arc received for honest review.
December 12, 2019
OK story that kept me entertained.
April 3, 2019
5 stars
I really loved this excellent romance with two interesting middle-aged leads. The story really worked for me and I enjoyed it without any real complain. The fans of celebrity romances might especially like it. Can't wait for A.L. Brooks next book because she never disappoints. Her books are always great read.
eARC by Ylva Publishing
I really loved this excellent romance with two interesting middle-aged leads. The story really worked for me and I enjoyed it without any real complain. The fans of celebrity romances might especially like it. Can't wait for A.L. Brooks next book because she never disappoints. Her books are always great read.
eARC by Ylva Publishing
April 22, 2019
Another Hollywood romance, but I’m a sucker for them. Something about the self-made prison of fame and its glittery illusions appeals to me. The reminder that underneath the self-assured glamour (or the drug-fuelled train wreck) of the movie star is a real, ordinary person who envies the anonymity that we take for granted and allows us to, for the most part, accept the attentions of others at face value.
Sometimes it’s difficult to be sympathetic to the movie star who wants the fame and successful career so much that she is willing to deny her own sexual wants and needs by stuffing herself firmly in the closet. Brooks doesn’t gloss over this aspect of Tamsyn Harris and contrasts her with the out and proud writer, Maggie Cooper. Yet Maggie lives in her own closet of sorts, one that is giving her a severe case of writer’s block.
Their time out at a Norfolk retreat brings them together and gives each of them a lot to think about. Their romance is gentle but passionate, bittersweet and tainted by the knowledge that this is just a holiday fling.
I liked that book was realistic about the effects that Tamsyn’s coming out would have on both their lives and Brooks’s skill as a writer made the story seem fresh. It’s a satisfying read and I enjoyed this take on the Hollywood romance. Recommended.
Note: I was given an advance copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Sometimes it’s difficult to be sympathetic to the movie star who wants the fame and successful career so much that she is willing to deny her own sexual wants and needs by stuffing herself firmly in the closet. Brooks doesn’t gloss over this aspect of Tamsyn Harris and contrasts her with the out and proud writer, Maggie Cooper. Yet Maggie lives in her own closet of sorts, one that is giving her a severe case of writer’s block.
Their time out at a Norfolk retreat brings them together and gives each of them a lot to think about. Their romance is gentle but passionate, bittersweet and tainted by the knowledge that this is just a holiday fling.
I liked that book was realistic about the effects that Tamsyn’s coming out would have on both their lives and Brooks’s skill as a writer made the story seem fresh. It’s a satisfying read and I enjoyed this take on the Hollywood romance. Recommended.
Note: I was given an advance copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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