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Star Crossed
Michael Graydon has it all - looks, fame, and a couple of Oscars.
Does he see me in the crowd of paparazzi?
Does he know I sell pictures of him to the tabloids as if money could ever erase the feel of his lips on me?
Does he think I forgot the way he broke my heart?
Or does he know that I’ve ruined everything I’ve ever loved?
We were seventeen when I left, and I never forgot Laine. Not for one minute.
Since that day I’ve measured all women against her and every one of them has come up short.
We're in the same town, on the same block, in the same building, and the gulf between us is just too wide to cross.
Until I stop running from trouble long enough to throw her camera off a balcony.
She’s a career-killer. A PR disaster.
Loving her again is career suicide, and I don’t care.
This time, I’m running toward her, even if it ruins me.
Star Crossed is a new and improved version of previously published title, Shuttergirl, with a brand new epilogue and previously unpublished, totally swoon-worthy and emotional new scenes.
Does he see me in the crowd of paparazzi?
Does he know I sell pictures of him to the tabloids as if money could ever erase the feel of his lips on me?
Does he think I forgot the way he broke my heart?
Or does he know that I’ve ruined everything I’ve ever loved?
We were seventeen when I left, and I never forgot Laine. Not for one minute.
Since that day I’ve measured all women against her and every one of them has come up short.
We're in the same town, on the same block, in the same building, and the gulf between us is just too wide to cross.
Until I stop running from trouble long enough to throw her camera off a balcony.
She’s a career-killer. A PR disaster.
Loving her again is career suicide, and I don’t care.
This time, I’m running toward her, even if it ruins me.
Star Crossed is a new and improved version of previously published title, Shuttergirl, with a brand new epilogue and previously unpublished, totally swoon-worthy and emotional new scenes.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2020
266 people are currently reading
420 people want to read
About the author
C.D. Reiss
112 books9,647 followersCD Reiss is a New York Times bestselling author. She still has to chop wood and carry water, which was buried in the fine print. Her lawyer is working it out with God but in the meantime, if you call and she doesn't pick up she's at the well hauling buckets.
Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels.
She's frequently referred to as the Shakespeare of Smut which is flattering but hasn't ever gotten her out of chopping a single cord of wood.
If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine.
***NONE OF MY BOOKS ARE SAFE***
Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels.
She's frequently referred to as the Shakespeare of Smut which is flattering but hasn't ever gotten her out of chopping a single cord of wood.
If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine.
***NONE OF MY BOOKS ARE SAFE***
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April 17, 2020
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Second chance romances … who doesn’t love those?! amirite?! Throw in two people from opposite sides of the world but yet in the same world and it makes for quite a riveting read. The story of Lanie and Michael is a true life journey with all the guts and glory that come with life because life isn’t always bright. It has shadows and darkness and bad things happen and there’s nothing I love more than real fiction. I love reading this genre because the guy *always* gets the girl, but I love it even more when the getting is rough, realistic and relatable. Even tho I’m no celebrity nor have I experienced Lanie’s life, C.D. Reiss does an exceptional job of sucking me into their lives and making me a part of them. I felt their story just like I feel every other story she’s ever written. SHE IS A GENIUS! I am never on the outside looking in with her stories. I am right there! And it is a glorious place to be. GAH, this woman is talented!
Now, a little bit of the not so good for me part …
I like the story of Lanie and Michael. I like their journey. It’s not a new story for me because I read Shuttergirl about 4 years ago but in reading years, that’s an eternity for me so I still felt like I was reading something fresh and new … until I wasn’t. Here’s the thing, once I got deep enough into the story, my brain remembered, and then it wasn’t so much fun anymore for me because I mostly already knew what was coming, how it was coming and what the end game was going to be. So yeah, I was a bit disappointed (for myself) because the story didn’t seem new and improved and my copy of Shuttergirl had a link to an epilogue that is actually still up and available to read so, "new and improved … with a brand new epilogue"? … not in my reading world so *sigh* disappointed. *shrug*
NOTE: This is a review of an ARC, it is possible that the finished product could be different than what I read and am reviewing ...
Amazon US | Amazon Worldwide
Second chance romances … who doesn’t love those?! amirite?! Throw in two people from opposite sides of the world but yet in the same world and it makes for quite a riveting read. The story of Lanie and Michael is a true life journey with all the guts and glory that come with life because life isn’t always bright. It has shadows and darkness and bad things happen and there’s nothing I love more than real fiction. I love reading this genre because the guy *always* gets the girl, but I love it even more when the getting is rough, realistic and relatable. Even tho I’m no celebrity nor have I experienced Lanie’s life, C.D. Reiss does an exceptional job of sucking me into their lives and making me a part of them. I felt their story just like I feel every other story she’s ever written. SHE IS A GENIUS! I am never on the outside looking in with her stories. I am right there! And it is a glorious place to be. GAH, this woman is talented!
Now, a little bit of the not so good for me part …
I like the story of Lanie and Michael. I like their journey. It’s not a new story for me because I read Shuttergirl about 4 years ago but in reading years, that’s an eternity for me so I still felt like I was reading something fresh and new … until I wasn’t. Here’s the thing, once I got deep enough into the story, my brain remembered, and then it wasn’t so much fun anymore for me because I mostly already knew what was coming, how it was coming and what the end game was going to be. So yeah, I was a bit disappointed (for myself) because the story didn’t seem new and improved and my copy of Shuttergirl had a link to an epilogue that is actually still up and available to read so, "new and improved … with a brand new epilogue"? … not in my reading world so *sigh* disappointed. *shrug*
NOTE: This is a review of an ARC, it is possible that the finished product could be different than what I read and am reviewing ...
April 14, 2020
In ‘Star Crossed’ we meet Laine and Michael. Laine is a twenty five year old paparazzo. After growing up as a foster kid, going from one family to the next Laine has seen some horrors. The one bright spot growing up, was being able to talk to Michael, but when he left to become a star he left Laine behind. And now Laine hides behind het camera, taking pictures of all the hot stars including Michael.
This book definitely had all the things I love in a good romance story, but somehow this book didn’t ‘wow’ me. Laine and Michael have chemistry, but I could have felt more of it. Everything about these two being together shouldn’t work, but they still have this connection that you can’t deny. And I enjoyed reading about them, but I also just didn’t really ‘feel’ their relationship.
This book took me some time to get into. For a long time I felt like I missed something. We start right in the middle of Laine making pictures of Michael. And at first I didn’t really get what was going on between them. Slowly on things got explained more, and this definitely helped me connect with this story and the characters more. Laine’s character is really complex. And I’m not really sure I liked her all that much.
The whole paparazzi thing was very original and something I definitely hadn’t read before. But in real-life I really don’t like what I know about paparazzi. And since I couldn’t really seem to connect with Laine’s character, it didn’t really help when I didn’t like her profession.
Still, I had fun reading this book.
This book definitely had all the things I love in a good romance story, but somehow this book didn’t ‘wow’ me. Laine and Michael have chemistry, but I could have felt more of it. Everything about these two being together shouldn’t work, but they still have this connection that you can’t deny. And I enjoyed reading about them, but I also just didn’t really ‘feel’ their relationship.
This book took me some time to get into. For a long time I felt like I missed something. We start right in the middle of Laine making pictures of Michael. And at first I didn’t really get what was going on between them. Slowly on things got explained more, and this definitely helped me connect with this story and the characters more. Laine’s character is really complex. And I’m not really sure I liked her all that much.
The whole paparazzi thing was very original and something I definitely hadn’t read before. But in real-life I really don’t like what I know about paparazzi. And since I couldn’t really seem to connect with Laine’s character, it didn’t really help when I didn’t like her profession.
Still, I had fun reading this book.
April 24, 2020
I first met Michael Greydon over five years ago in the draft of Shuttergirl, and I fell for him hard. Truthfully, I forgot how hard. But that's the way it seem to be with guys like Michael. In the five years since I have yet to meet another as singularly swoonworthy. CD Reiss gave us a “Good man”, a rarity in a genre populated by alphas, Doms and bad boys. In the words of George Gordon, Lord Byron, “He possessed beauty without vanity, strength without insolence, courage without ferocity . . .” He’s not your spoiled rich kid, pretty boy actor. He’s a decent person.
Star Crossed is an updated edition of Shuttergirl. It gives Laine the justice she deserves and gives us more of what we have come to love from CD Reiss. More emotional truths. More soul crushing longing. Just more. And she does with artful grace notes that take a familiar story and makes it totally fresh and new. It's a sweet, sexy, slow boil of a second chance contemporary romance. The truth is she soars with this book. It’s a modern day, Hollywood fairy tale as only C.D. Reiss can tell it.
While Ms. Reiss doesn’t give them an easy path to happily ever after, it balances the angst with whimsy and wit and the flavor of an Golden age of Hollywood romance. It’s a journey full of light and love and tenderness. Laine and Michael are a refreshing spring breeze after a hard. cold winter. For that, I give Star Crossed all of the big gold Stars front and center on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It’s the perfect summer read!!!
Star Crossed is an updated edition of Shuttergirl. It gives Laine the justice she deserves and gives us more of what we have come to love from CD Reiss. More emotional truths. More soul crushing longing. Just more. And she does with artful grace notes that take a familiar story and makes it totally fresh and new. It's a sweet, sexy, slow boil of a second chance contemporary romance. The truth is she soars with this book. It’s a modern day, Hollywood fairy tale as only C.D. Reiss can tell it.
While Ms. Reiss doesn’t give them an easy path to happily ever after, it balances the angst with whimsy and wit and the flavor of an Golden age of Hollywood romance. It’s a journey full of light and love and tenderness. Laine and Michael are a refreshing spring breeze after a hard. cold winter. For that, I give Star Crossed all of the big gold Stars front and center on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It’s the perfect summer read!!!
April 14, 2020
Star Crossed by CD Reiss is the story of Laine Cartwright and Michael Greydon.
Laine and Micheal first meet in school when they both are young with their feelings being off the charts for each other, but they were separated. Laine had grown up in LA's foster care system and is a street wise woman. Now Laine makes a living being a paparazzi taking pictures and selling them. Micheal who has gone on to be a movie star but somehow never forgetting Laine. Now in their present day they end up meeting again on opposite ends of life again. This is their second chance at love.
Note: This is a re-release of this book formally known as 'Shutter-girl'. The author has added a new epilogue along with some new scene in their story along with the new cover. I had missed this book the first time so I am of course happy that it has been re-released.
Laine and Micheal first meet in school when they both are young with their feelings being off the charts for each other, but they were separated. Laine had grown up in LA's foster care system and is a street wise woman. Now Laine makes a living being a paparazzi taking pictures and selling them. Micheal who has gone on to be a movie star but somehow never forgetting Laine. Now in their present day they end up meeting again on opposite ends of life again. This is their second chance at love.
Note: This is a re-release of this book formally known as 'Shutter-girl'. The author has added a new epilogue along with some new scene in their story along with the new cover. I had missed this book the first time so I am of course happy that it has been re-released.
April 16, 2020
4.4 stars
I initially read this book when it was Shuttergirl. I enjoyed it then but I remember wanting more. I got my wish because the author expanded on it and made it better. Great story, cast of characters, and epilogue.
I initially read this book when it was Shuttergirl. I enjoyed it then but I remember wanting more. I got my wish because the author expanded on it and made it better. Great story, cast of characters, and epilogue.
April 14, 2020
Overall Grade: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What does it mean to live a one-dimensional life in a three-dimensional world? How do you find the colors and gradations when your life feels predetermined and empty for you? These questions underscore the depths of the message in CD Reiss’s newest book, Star Crossed. This story isn’t a new one for Reiss. It was initially packaged as Shuttergirl. However, she revisited it, revising it to the poignant story of people seemingly so different yet so much the same. It’s a second chance romance filled with the idea that life is meant to be lived on your own terms in the most abundant way possible.
Star Crossed tells the story of Michael, a Hollywood superstar, and Laine, one of the best paparazzas in Hollywood. What is interesting about their story is Michael and Laine know each other, as they were students together in high school. Even more, Laine and Michael were attracted to each other, but life gets between the two of them, and nothing transpires...until it does. Laine and Michael live their lives, circling each other without ever fully connecting. One night, that changes, and their journey begins. However, given their backgrounds, Michael as the son of Hollywood royalty and Laine as a former foster child, and current occupations, nothing will be easy for them. Is it possible for Michael and Laine find their cinematic ending?
There are three reasons you should read CD Reiss’s Star Crossed (and her other books, for that matter): story, steam, and style.
There is nothing easy about Michael and Laine’s romantic journey. As her title suggests, they are fated against each other. What is interesting about Reiss’s story is the idea that Michael and Laine are living lives that are “flat.” While there is the suggestion that they are so different, they are actually struggling with the same challenge: living an authentic life, apart from societal expectations and the past. Michael’s challenge is living his life to save his father and meet the expectations of society; like him, Laine must grapple with the sins of her past and her self-perception grounded in her issues of abandonment. These trials have led them to making choices that are grounded in varying degrees of survival. There is something safe about their lives. As their journey progresses, Reiss’s story connects us to her characters as they realize that, in loving each other, they can live richer lives. However, it requires bravery to do so. It’s this truth that draws the reader further into the story. Their chemistry, their attraction, their challenges, the forbidden nature of their connection, and their self-doubt conspire to tell a tale of self-discovery and the depths of love to transform. I “ate up” the pages of this book because Reiss’s story compels you to keep going until Michael and Laine find their ultimate truth and themselves.
If you’ve read any CD Reiss book, you know the steam of her books is set to burning. Her characters’ needs for each other sometimes transcend the unifying story idea. They need inside each other because it’s where they feel whole and complete. Star Crossed is no different. While this romance feels tamer than some of Reiss’s other books, Michael and Laine’s steam factor raises the level of their story.
Lastly, for me, Reiss’s true gift is her style. This may sound lavish in its assessment, but Reiss knows how to spin her words into gold. There are very few authors who I “lit-geek” out over, but Reiss is one of them. Every one of her books finds themselves copiously highlighted and annotated. She takes words and creates images that underscore the depths of her stories’ truths. In Star Crossed, she constructs these flat images: the air going out of a room, flat expressions, etc. to illustrate the one-dimensional life that Michael has created for himself. As Laine enters his life, she brings more; she makes him feel less “flat.” Here’s the thing: authors use imagery and allegory and metaphors and similes all the time. You aren’t an effective writer if you don’t. What Reiss does, though, is she seamlessly incorporates these writing techniques and partners them with words that feel heavy and meaningful. It’s the reason almost every page on my Kindle finds a highlight. Her syntactical dexterity provides the foundation for the depths of her stories. Star Crossed is no different. I couldn’t help but giddily revel in her wordsmithing. For me, that’s Reiss’s true talent.
I’m a southern California girl, not born, but mostly raised here, and Star Crossed feels like being home. No, I’m not a starlet or Hollywood type, but this story is the collective experience of my region. That Reiss uses it to convey the idea that we can have more and be more on our own terms made it an even more thoughtful read. We assume that everything that shines is successful, but that isn’t the case. Michael and Laine’s success comes in accepting themselves and embracing their love. If that’s your romance crack, then CD Reiss’s Star Crossed will feed the cravings of your addiction well.
What does it mean to live a one-dimensional life in a three-dimensional world? How do you find the colors and gradations when your life feels predetermined and empty for you? These questions underscore the depths of the message in CD Reiss’s newest book, Star Crossed. This story isn’t a new one for Reiss. It was initially packaged as Shuttergirl. However, she revisited it, revising it to the poignant story of people seemingly so different yet so much the same. It’s a second chance romance filled with the idea that life is meant to be lived on your own terms in the most abundant way possible.
Star Crossed tells the story of Michael, a Hollywood superstar, and Laine, one of the best paparazzas in Hollywood. What is interesting about their story is Michael and Laine know each other, as they were students together in high school. Even more, Laine and Michael were attracted to each other, but life gets between the two of them, and nothing transpires...until it does. Laine and Michael live their lives, circling each other without ever fully connecting. One night, that changes, and their journey begins. However, given their backgrounds, Michael as the son of Hollywood royalty and Laine as a former foster child, and current occupations, nothing will be easy for them. Is it possible for Michael and Laine find their cinematic ending?
There are three reasons you should read CD Reiss’s Star Crossed (and her other books, for that matter): story, steam, and style.
There is nothing easy about Michael and Laine’s romantic journey. As her title suggests, they are fated against each other. What is interesting about Reiss’s story is the idea that Michael and Laine are living lives that are “flat.” While there is the suggestion that they are so different, they are actually struggling with the same challenge: living an authentic life, apart from societal expectations and the past. Michael’s challenge is living his life to save his father and meet the expectations of society; like him, Laine must grapple with the sins of her past and her self-perception grounded in her issues of abandonment. These trials have led them to making choices that are grounded in varying degrees of survival. There is something safe about their lives. As their journey progresses, Reiss’s story connects us to her characters as they realize that, in loving each other, they can live richer lives. However, it requires bravery to do so. It’s this truth that draws the reader further into the story. Their chemistry, their attraction, their challenges, the forbidden nature of their connection, and their self-doubt conspire to tell a tale of self-discovery and the depths of love to transform. I “ate up” the pages of this book because Reiss’s story compels you to keep going until Michael and Laine find their ultimate truth and themselves.
If you’ve read any CD Reiss book, you know the steam of her books is set to burning. Her characters’ needs for each other sometimes transcend the unifying story idea. They need inside each other because it’s where they feel whole and complete. Star Crossed is no different. While this romance feels tamer than some of Reiss’s other books, Michael and Laine’s steam factor raises the level of their story.
Lastly, for me, Reiss’s true gift is her style. This may sound lavish in its assessment, but Reiss knows how to spin her words into gold. There are very few authors who I “lit-geek” out over, but Reiss is one of them. Every one of her books finds themselves copiously highlighted and annotated. She takes words and creates images that underscore the depths of her stories’ truths. In Star Crossed, she constructs these flat images: the air going out of a room, flat expressions, etc. to illustrate the one-dimensional life that Michael has created for himself. As Laine enters his life, she brings more; she makes him feel less “flat.” Here’s the thing: authors use imagery and allegory and metaphors and similes all the time. You aren’t an effective writer if you don’t. What Reiss does, though, is she seamlessly incorporates these writing techniques and partners them with words that feel heavy and meaningful. It’s the reason almost every page on my Kindle finds a highlight. Her syntactical dexterity provides the foundation for the depths of her stories. Star Crossed is no different. I couldn’t help but giddily revel in her wordsmithing. For me, that’s Reiss’s true talent.
I’m a southern California girl, not born, but mostly raised here, and Star Crossed feels like being home. No, I’m not a starlet or Hollywood type, but this story is the collective experience of my region. That Reiss uses it to convey the idea that we can have more and be more on our own terms made it an even more thoughtful read. We assume that everything that shines is successful, but that isn’t the case. Michael and Laine’s success comes in accepting themselves and embracing their love. If that’s your romance crack, then CD Reiss’s Star Crossed will feed the cravings of your addiction well.
April 20, 2020
Laine is a paparazza, a taker of celebrity pictures, mostly pictures said celebrities don't want taken, and as a paparazza, she's pretty much a cockroach under those celebrities' shoes. So when Michael Graydon, a man she once knew, a man who's an A-list Hollywood star, and she, come into each others' orbits as more than just being on opposite sides of the camera, Laine knows it's not permanent, that she can never, ever make a relationship work with Hollywood royalty.
This story had so much more of an impact than I had been expecting. I don't know why I wasn't expecting it, considering that CD Reiss wrote one of my favorite series, Complete Submission, and it's seriously intense in every way and it got me right in the gut and the heart, but for some reason I guess I was just expecting a sort of frothy Hollywood bad boy vs his enemy kind of story. But Star Crossed is not that in really any way. Laine had a really rough childhood, and it shaped her into a complex adult, so her present relationship with Michael could not be anything but crazy and emotional, and damn it was both those things. And I loved it. I may have shed a few tears, but in the end, I can safely say I loved Star Crossed. It's emotionally complex and complicated, it's so sexy, and Laine and Michael are such a fascinating couple. I know it's a re-release, but I never read it the first time around, so I'm really glad I got the chance to read it in its new incarnation. Laine and Michael's journey is going to stay with me for a long time.
ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
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April 16, 2020
4.5 stars
CD Reiss got me right in the feels. Star Crossed is exactly what I needed. Chemistry, history, and drama may be high school class offerings but they are also a big presence in Star Crossed.
The A-lister and the paparazza make for an entertaining and conflicted tale of woe, woo, and wonderful. Where do I start first!?! Michael and Laine are two halves of a whole. They may not fit right in the beginning but once they flipped the magnets on the other side...spooning. (I know thats a lot of mixed metaphors and butchered sayings, but the picture it paints is pretty clear.)
Two lost souls swimming in a fish bowl, year after year...
I can't help but think CD Reiss may have listened to a little Pink Floyd prior to writing Star Crossed. The lyric fits their chaotic...existences; not living, not thriving, just being. Laine and Michael realize that their separate entities are just a shell of existence. No one WANTS to a be a shell.
CD Reiss jump started their hearts and gave them everything they didn't know they were missing. She invited us along for the ride and I'm grateful my invitation didn't get lost in the mail.
I hope that even those who have read Star Crossed in it's previous incarnation, Shuttergirl, take the time to realize a guy from Texas who reads romance can change even a story that's already been written. (Thanks...dude!)
I have had fun, heart ache, and a big dumb smile of satisfaction through the course of their story. Michael and Laine made me cry, made me hopeful, and made me fall in love. Star Crossed lovers don't always have to end like Romeo and Juliet; Michael and Laine prove it.
So brush your hair, shoulders back, show me those pearly whites, and get ready for the camera!
April 20, 2020
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓 𝑪𝒓𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑪𝑫 𝑹𝒆𝒊𝒔𝒔
✰
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 4.5 🌟
✰
I’ve always been a sucker for a good celebrity romance and I was thrilled to receive a copy of Star Crossed in exchange for my honest feedback and review. Sometimes I get into a Hollywood romance and it’s the same story, different day but that definitely was not the case here.
I never read CD Reiss’s original version of the story, Shuttergirl, so I don’t really have a comparison to how the revised version, Star Crossed, compares. From what I have read, Star Crossed contains edits and a few added scenes that were not in the original version.
Michael, Hollywood’s Golden Boy, and Laine, ruthless paparazzi and product of the LA-foster system, first had their chance at love during high school. Fast forward 10 years and many photos of Michael that Laine has profited off later and they once again have a second chance at love. Laine has had a rough upbringing and there are many skeletons in her closet - Michael doesn’t care and only has eyes for her rather than his career.
It’s such a sweet story of self-discovery, healing and moving forward for both characters. The chemistry and nature of their relationship just made me feel 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 the entire time. I loved that this didn’t feel like one of those stories where jealousy drives them apart - like every other Hollywood love story. I really really enjoyed it!
✰
𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗖𝗗 𝗥𝗲𝗶𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗹𝘆 𝗣𝗥 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗹𝘆.
✰
✰
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 4.5 🌟
✰
I’ve always been a sucker for a good celebrity romance and I was thrilled to receive a copy of Star Crossed in exchange for my honest feedback and review. Sometimes I get into a Hollywood romance and it’s the same story, different day but that definitely was not the case here.
I never read CD Reiss’s original version of the story, Shuttergirl, so I don’t really have a comparison to how the revised version, Star Crossed, compares. From what I have read, Star Crossed contains edits and a few added scenes that were not in the original version.
Michael, Hollywood’s Golden Boy, and Laine, ruthless paparazzi and product of the LA-foster system, first had their chance at love during high school. Fast forward 10 years and many photos of Michael that Laine has profited off later and they once again have a second chance at love. Laine has had a rough upbringing and there are many skeletons in her closet - Michael doesn’t care and only has eyes for her rather than his career.
It’s such a sweet story of self-discovery, healing and moving forward for both characters. The chemistry and nature of their relationship just made me feel 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 the entire time. I loved that this didn’t feel like one of those stories where jealousy drives them apart - like every other Hollywood love story. I really really enjoyed it!
✰
𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗖𝗗 𝗥𝗲𝗶𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗹𝘆 𝗣𝗥 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗹𝘆.
✰
April 15, 2020
Laine Cartwright was abandoned by her parents, left in the forest care system went from family to family, only to be abused and left again. She overcomes adversity by picking up a camera she builds her life by taking pictures of high society and young actors behaving badly and she sells them to the highest bidder. She is what is known as the paparazzi.
Michael Greydon is Hollywood's current leading man, coming from Hollywood royalty, both parents are/were actors. Michael and his friends know how to party, some more than others but in the limelight, Michael is considered a saint. That is until he reconnects to the girl who stole his heart at age seventeen, he left went to Yale, whatever happened to her?
This story is about two people who are on opposite sides of the fence. So what happens when the star falls for Shuttergirl?
Michael Greydon is Hollywood's current leading man, coming from Hollywood royalty, both parents are/were actors. Michael and his friends know how to party, some more than others but in the limelight, Michael is considered a saint. That is until he reconnects to the girl who stole his heart at age seventeen, he left went to Yale, whatever happened to her?
This story is about two people who are on opposite sides of the fence. So what happens when the star falls for Shuttergirl?
April 23, 2020
Loveloveloved Star Crossed. I'd previously read it as Shuttergirl. I can't remember what was changed or added. It doesn't even matter. What matters is that years later and this story still got to me.
Michael Greydon. Swoony af. Laine Cartwright. Pap in heels owning LA.
Reiss's characters' love affair with their city draws you in and forces you to create your own obsession with the City of Angels.
Their love for each other across a decade forces you to commit to what they have, obstacles be damned.
Michael Greydon. Swoony af. Laine Cartwright. Pap in heels owning LA.
Reiss's characters' love affair with their city draws you in and forces you to create your own obsession with the City of Angels.
Their love for each other across a decade forces you to commit to what they have, obstacles be damned.
Want to read
December 30, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/30/2021)! 🎁
June 12, 2020
This is a standalone contemporary romance written in dual POVs. C.D. Reiss wrote an emotional and beautiful love story. If you've read her books before, this is different from the erotic books you may have read from her before. It still has all of the feels and steamy goodness you've come to expect from Christine, but there is so much more feeling, grit, and intensity. It is about second and even third chances, and how two people from different worlds are attracted to each other like a magnet. It pulls you in. It starts out a little slow but it definitely picks up and you can't turn the pages fast enough! The plot is very well-written. The heartbreak made my chest ache but the HEA made my heart sing! The characters are broken and imperfect but they are wonderful. This is a must-read!
****ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.****
****ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.****
April 21, 2020
I don't know exactly how i feel about this exactly. But I found myself reading and skimming through the pages.
I love the ending though, it was beautiful what they were doing.
I love the ending though, it was beautiful what they were doing.
January 2, 2022
I absolutely love CD Reiss' work and Star Crossed is no different. I absolutely love Michael and Laniey together and it was great to read their story.
April 18, 2020
I read this book years ago as Shuttergirl and loved it. It was the first book I read by this author and it was the first of many. It remains my favorite and most remembered. And now it’s even better because there’s more Laine in the story. It represents the evolution of these two characters who are stars in their fields and how they came together across fire.
Laine used to be a foster kid. She was born to a druggie mother and absent father that she never knew. Michael is part of Hollywood royalty, born to Hollywood legends. They met briefly in high school, while she was briefly fostered by a rich married couple. Michael was always intrigued by Laine but she didn’t fit into his lifestyle and plans. He had a girlfriend in high school who had his same ideals and goals, so he left high school and left Laine behind. Laine went through a dark period, then took up photography and is now a well-recognized paparazza. They never forgot each other, and although Michael recognized Laine when she stalked him as a paparazza, he never acknowledged her.
Laine’s longing to be near Michael, at least once in her life, led her to sneak into an event in a nightclub. The event turned into a nightmare, caused by her foster brother Tom, and ended up with Michael throwing her camera in a temper tantrum. Then they reconnected when he attempted to apologize.
When they reconnect, two things happen. Old yearnings come back with a vengeance and it ties in with Michaels dissatisfaction with his life. He’s always lived life according to the rules, never deviated from his straight path to stardom. And yet, despite all his fame and glory and wealth, he feels hemmed in by rules and expectations. In a way, I think both Laine and Michael want to tear away from their assigned roles and move into another reality. Laine has lived years on the periphery of Michael’s life and her yearning to be near has suddenly turned irresistible. Their road to discovery and to each other is fraught with many obstacles and scandal.
Laine, who used to be fearless and accomplished, turned into this timid creature, afraid of rejection, and Michael, who was the poster boy of the straight and narrow choices, goes rebel. I think they were trying to find who they were, what they wanted, and of course, they wanted each other.
The book is riveting, intelligent, rich in nuances and feelings, passionate and challenging, and the evolvement of Laine and Michael felt like when a butterfly works its way out of the chrysalis. It hurt to see Laine trying to conform to Michael’s world and confront rejection and criticism. Michael was obstinate in his pursuit of the woman he wanted but at times he was a blockhead. The HEA was everything I ever wanted, and I ended up loving this book more than ever.
Laine used to be a foster kid. She was born to a druggie mother and absent father that she never knew. Michael is part of Hollywood royalty, born to Hollywood legends. They met briefly in high school, while she was briefly fostered by a rich married couple. Michael was always intrigued by Laine but she didn’t fit into his lifestyle and plans. He had a girlfriend in high school who had his same ideals and goals, so he left high school and left Laine behind. Laine went through a dark period, then took up photography and is now a well-recognized paparazza. They never forgot each other, and although Michael recognized Laine when she stalked him as a paparazza, he never acknowledged her.
Laine’s longing to be near Michael, at least once in her life, led her to sneak into an event in a nightclub. The event turned into a nightmare, caused by her foster brother Tom, and ended up with Michael throwing her camera in a temper tantrum. Then they reconnected when he attempted to apologize.
When they reconnect, two things happen. Old yearnings come back with a vengeance and it ties in with Michaels dissatisfaction with his life. He’s always lived life according to the rules, never deviated from his straight path to stardom. And yet, despite all his fame and glory and wealth, he feels hemmed in by rules and expectations. In a way, I think both Laine and Michael want to tear away from their assigned roles and move into another reality. Laine has lived years on the periphery of Michael’s life and her yearning to be near has suddenly turned irresistible. Their road to discovery and to each other is fraught with many obstacles and scandal.
Laine, who used to be fearless and accomplished, turned into this timid creature, afraid of rejection, and Michael, who was the poster boy of the straight and narrow choices, goes rebel. I think they were trying to find who they were, what they wanted, and of course, they wanted each other.
The book is riveting, intelligent, rich in nuances and feelings, passionate and challenging, and the evolvement of Laine and Michael felt like when a butterfly works its way out of the chrysalis. It hurt to see Laine trying to conform to Michael’s world and confront rejection and criticism. Michael was obstinate in his pursuit of the woman he wanted but at times he was a blockhead. The HEA was everything I ever wanted, and I ended up loving this book more than ever.
April 12, 2020
I loved this beautiful and poignant story of redemption, forgiveness, and second chances. This is a unique, and different Hollywood romance that was so seductive and took my breath away. Laine Cartwright is a talented photographer, but is making her living on the streets of LA, capturing candid shots of the Hollywood elite. Movie star, Michael Greydon, is Hollywood royalty and America's Boyfriend. Laine and Michael first met in high school. They were from completely opposite worlds but connected so intrinsically. When Michael left school abruptly to follow his dream, Laine felt lost and alone. She made some bad choices, but found the strength to pick herself up and follow her passion, becoming an honest and respected photographer. She and Michael have followed each others careers from afar, always wondering 'what if things were different'. One evening when they finally meet again face to face, their undeniable and fiery attraction makes them explore those 'what if's. Laine may be a paparazzo, but she is unprepared when her colleagues turn their lenses on her. Michael is so sweet, patient and protective as he shelters Laine, wanting her to be safe in his world. But Laine has a horrific past that resurfaces with all this new attention, and it could ruin not only their careers, but tear them apart for good this time. I was so heartbroken over what Laine endured, but I admired her strength and resilience and how she always took ownership of her decisions. Michael was so kind, loving, and down-to-earth despite his privileged life. They are so perfect together, supporting and trusting each other, and their chemistry leaped right off the page. I love the way Reiss makes her stories and characters come alive. She expertly and exquisitely portrayed Laine and Michael with all their complications, joy, heartbreak, and pleasure. With that, making me feel all the authentic emotions including empathy. Oh and the epilogue was so perfect, I didn't want it to end. I absolutely loved, and highly recommend this beautiful, poignant and sexy romance!
April 15, 2020
Blew My Head and Heart Away...Desperately Romantic
(in the last act of this book chp 48 and on, Michael Graydon may have become my GOAT book boyfriend, and the epilogue is a five kleenex read). Okay, my review xo
Luminous and stunning! Star Crossed is a bone deep skinprick, an 'I need a minute to collect myself' romance that itches and scratches its way into your throat and the lump there grows and grows until I was a mess of emotion, the best kind. And that brilliant epilogue made my heart shudder. It will stay with me always--so well earned.
Lanie and Michael's shattering romance is told from the sweet innocence of first love, through the devastating effects of rejection, unrequited love and fractured families until we arrive at mature people where Reiss raises the romance writing bar mining the age old stakes of career versus happiness. I could not put it down. Fear and regret are such looming characters here, and they are balanced by a big dose of atmosphere, the LaLa land kind, where dissonance of wealth and geography shape the narrative as much as their attraction, as we watch these lovely people fall in love.
One gigantic love letter to her fans, she's written an intense forever romance bourne of longing and regret. I love their love. I love them. Period. Michael Graydon is so well drawn, Lanie is so broken and damage--her camera is her mask and her shield. The twist, geez the twist that sets this story apart, it slayed me in the best way that her and the ruminative writing style that sets Reiss apart made this story impossible to put down.
And the last act, I mean. Possibly THE perfect Hollywood ending. I am tearing up as a write it. Michael Graydon is underrated and an incredible book boyfriend.
(in the last act of this book chp 48 and on, Michael Graydon may have become my GOAT book boyfriend, and the epilogue is a five kleenex read). Okay, my review xo
Luminous and stunning! Star Crossed is a bone deep skinprick, an 'I need a minute to collect myself' romance that itches and scratches its way into your throat and the lump there grows and grows until I was a mess of emotion, the best kind. And that brilliant epilogue made my heart shudder. It will stay with me always--so well earned.
Lanie and Michael's shattering romance is told from the sweet innocence of first love, through the devastating effects of rejection, unrequited love and fractured families until we arrive at mature people where Reiss raises the romance writing bar mining the age old stakes of career versus happiness. I could not put it down. Fear and regret are such looming characters here, and they are balanced by a big dose of atmosphere, the LaLa land kind, where dissonance of wealth and geography shape the narrative as much as their attraction, as we watch these lovely people fall in love.
One gigantic love letter to her fans, she's written an intense forever romance bourne of longing and regret. I love their love. I love them. Period. Michael Graydon is so well drawn, Lanie is so broken and damage--her camera is her mask and her shield. The twist, geez the twist that sets this story apart, it slayed me in the best way that her and the ruminative writing style that sets Reiss apart made this story impossible to put down.
And the last act, I mean. Possibly THE perfect Hollywood ending. I am tearing up as a write it. Michael Graydon is underrated and an incredible book boyfriend.
April 17, 2023
Laine is a paparazzo who strikes fear into the hearts of PR professionals. She is skilled at capturing the perfect photo and has become one of the best photographers in her field and has even photographed the famous actor,Michael Graydon, who once broke her heart. Laine had a difficult upbringing in foster care and struggled with personal trauma, but her infatuation with Michael during her school years was all-consuming. Michael broke her heart, causing Laine to spiral into self-destructive behavior until she hit rock bottom. It took years for her to rebuild her life and get back on track. Now she is face to face with the man who once broke her heart, and she can't resist the attraction and chemistry between them. However, Laine knows that if she gives in, she will become the object of her fellow paparazzi. Michael sees the girl he once doted on clicking away behind the camera lens and he wants to reconnect with her, but he's unsure if Laine will forgive him for leaving her and if she's ready to give up everything she's worked for. As they grapple with their feelings for each other, Laine is caught up with her past, which poses a threat to them both. Can they overcome these obstacles and find a way forward together, or will they repeat their destructive patterns from the past?
Although it took some time for the story to become compelling, it was entertaining. However, I found Laine's behavior to be arrogant and unforgiving at times, even though her past actions were her own failures. The chemistry between Laine and Michael felt forced at times, and I think, personally, this was my biggest annoyance. However, overall, I enjoyed the story, but it was not a standout read for me personally..
Although it took some time for the story to become compelling, it was entertaining. However, I found Laine's behavior to be arrogant and unforgiving at times, even though her past actions were her own failures. The chemistry between Laine and Michael felt forced at times, and I think, personally, this was my biggest annoyance. However, overall, I enjoyed the story, but it was not a standout read for me personally..
April 20, 2020
Absolutely fantastic! I loved this story the first time around as Shuttergirl and loved reading it again with the new material. This is one of my favorites from this outstanding author and that's saying something with all her fabulous stories. Laine is a exceptional heroine as the gritty paparazzi that gets the best celebrity pics. Her childhood was a mix of wonderful times and horrific events and it's a wonder she came out of that foster life in such a spectacular way. And when she meets her childhood crush again it's magic. The guy that she fell in love with as a teen is now an actor of the highest caliber. Michael is successful, beautiful and just a nice guy. The sparks fly between these two and there's no denying their hot chemistry. This author writes the best smoking hot sex scenes! Panty melting is only the beginning. But when Laine ends up on the other side of the velvet rope both of their lives explode. Her past comes back with a nasty vengeance and his career takes a huge hit. Their relationship threatens to bring his life crashing down and makes hers unbearable. I love that Laine got justice for the crimes against her but I also know that doesn't always happen in real life so I like the first version too. And that justice involves a Drazen. Sneaky author! I loved Michael's ultimate response to the drama even if his first one sucked. Laine is such a survivor and nothing holds her down for long. Love that girl! Terrific epilogue and beautiful ending to a magnificent love story. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
April 16, 2020
I loved this book and felt like I was right next to both Michael and Laine as they fell in love, even though they had an uphill climb to find happiness. Michael and Laine knew each other when they were in high school, but just when they both started realizing their feelings he left town and became a famous actor. Being a foster child, Laine was moved from family to family and never fit in. She had minimal education and became a member of the pap. When they meet up years later, sparks fly and Michael vows to not let her get away this time.
Opposites sure did attract and set the pages on fire in this book. I could feel how much they loved each other and wanted to be together. There were some really romantic parts (their dates, the end, etc.) and some really heartbreaking (her childhood and what happened to her) and some hopeful (her relationship with her friend and her 'brother'). What she endured and survived made me root for her to succeed even more. His reaction was great and how they dealt with the blowback was both wonderful and heartbreaking.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this book. I can't believe how fast I read this (I didn't want to put it down) and how I wish it wouldn't have ended. I hope we get a book about her brother. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
Opposites sure did attract and set the pages on fire in this book. I could feel how much they loved each other and wanted to be together. There were some really romantic parts (their dates, the end, etc.) and some really heartbreaking (her childhood and what happened to her) and some hopeful (her relationship with her friend and her 'brother'). What she endured and survived made me root for her to succeed even more. His reaction was great and how they dealt with the blowback was both wonderful and heartbreaking.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this book. I can't believe how fast I read this (I didn't want to put it down) and how I wish it wouldn't have ended. I hope we get a book about her brother. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
April 12, 2020
Star Crossed - CD Reiss
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
CD Reiss delivers a beautifully broken story of lost love and redemption. Not your average Hollywood story but with characters this complex and a wonderfully dynamic story, you won’t want to put this book down.
Laine Cartwright had the kind of upbringing no child would wish for. Raised in the foster system, the story explores so many horrific and also touching periods of her life. She’s tough bad street wise, all because of the way she dragged herself out of adversity. She’s the paparazzo the others all admire and look up to, getting the images that everyone wants. She’s Shuttergirl to the Hollywood elite.
Michael Greydon is a Hollywood charmer, lives the charmed life and charms everyone he meets. With his movie star good looks and a movie star pedigree, he wants for nothing, but a chance reuniting with the girl from his teen years sparks a longing in him. One he didn’t even know he had.
Poignant and heart wrenching in its honesty, this story will keep you completely captivated to the end. A truly wonderful and emotionally powerful story, woven my a master of this genre - CD Reiss.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
CD Reiss delivers a beautifully broken story of lost love and redemption. Not your average Hollywood story but with characters this complex and a wonderfully dynamic story, you won’t want to put this book down.
Laine Cartwright had the kind of upbringing no child would wish for. Raised in the foster system, the story explores so many horrific and also touching periods of her life. She’s tough bad street wise, all because of the way she dragged herself out of adversity. She’s the paparazzo the others all admire and look up to, getting the images that everyone wants. She’s Shuttergirl to the Hollywood elite.
Michael Greydon is a Hollywood charmer, lives the charmed life and charms everyone he meets. With his movie star good looks and a movie star pedigree, he wants for nothing, but a chance reuniting with the girl from his teen years sparks a longing in him. One he didn’t even know he had.
Poignant and heart wrenching in its honesty, this story will keep you completely captivated to the end. A truly wonderful and emotionally powerful story, woven my a master of this genre - CD Reiss.
September 8, 2020
Five captivating 📷 📷 📷 📷 📷
Star Crossed: A Second Chance Hollywood Romance By C.D. Reiss
Laine Cartwright grew up in the foster care system from an early age where she was passed from one family to the next. She had to endure so much in her young life. Yet she perseveres with a successful career as a paparazza pursuing the Hollywood elite.
Michael Greydon is the leading man everyone wants in their movies. He comes from true Hollywood royalty and when everyone else is behaving badly he is a saint. They come from two different worlds yet at one time they went to the same school and were close. They held a special connection then he left school when he got a part in a movie leaving her behind never looking back. Almost ten years later their worlds collide when pictures are taken and past feelings resurface causing havoc they never saw coming. Their journey wasn't easy it was a hard fought uphill battle to find their happily ever after. It was emotional, captivating, heartbreaking, gutwrenching, funny,passionate and romantic. I absolutely loved the epilogue and was sad when the book ended because I wanted more, more, more.
Five captivating 📷 📷 📷 📷 📷
Star Crossed: A Second Chance Hollywood Romance By C.D. Reiss
Laine Cartwright grew up in the foster care system from an early age where she was passed from one family to the next. She had to endure so much in her young life. Yet she perseveres with a successful career as a paparazza pursuing the Hollywood elite.
Michael Greydon is the leading man everyone wants in their movies. He comes from true Hollywood royalty and when everyone else is behaving badly he is a saint. They come from two different worlds yet at one time they went to the same school and were close. They held a special connection then he left school when he got a part in a movie leaving her behind never looking back. Almost ten years later their worlds collide when pictures are taken and past feelings resurface causing havoc they never saw coming. Their journey wasn't easy it was a hard fought uphill battle to find their happily ever after. It was emotional, captivating, heartbreaking, gutwrenching, funny,passionate and romantic. I absolutely loved the epilogue and was sad when the book ended because I wanted more, more, more.
Five captivating 📷 📷 📷 📷 📷
April 16, 2020
Star Crossed is an exciting, tantalizing love story of glitz and glam, true love and second chances. Laine and Michael first meet in school, both young and unsure of the feelings they invoke in each other, due to a situation they couldn’t control, they are separated from each other.
After years, Laine and Michael find each other again, but things are much different than they were when they were kids.
Laine is now a blood thirsty paparazzi, taking pictures of the rich and famous for money, and Michael, well he’s the rich and famous. Michael, with his good looks has become one of the most famous movies stars out there. However, time means nothing when Laine walks back into his life. Will their second chance at love slip through their fingers? Will they let the limelight of fame come between them?
Laine is a character I feel so much for, what’s she’s endured, the fear and loneliness. She is a strong, independent woman and her love for Michael was one that made me not want the story to end. CD Reiss wrote the best compelling story and I am so joyful I could experience it.
After years, Laine and Michael find each other again, but things are much different than they were when they were kids.
Laine is now a blood thirsty paparazzi, taking pictures of the rich and famous for money, and Michael, well he’s the rich and famous. Michael, with his good looks has become one of the most famous movies stars out there. However, time means nothing when Laine walks back into his life. Will their second chance at love slip through their fingers? Will they let the limelight of fame come between them?
Laine is a character I feel so much for, what’s she’s endured, the fear and loneliness. She is a strong, independent woman and her love for Michael was one that made me not want the story to end. CD Reiss wrote the best compelling story and I am so joyful I could experience it.
April 17, 2020
There's not one story of CD Reiss that I wish I could give more than 5 stars, and Star Crossed is no exception. It's the story of Laine & Michael, who met in school setting off some very serious feelings towards each other. Things happened separating them, and nowadays, he's a movie star with the world at his fingertips, while she is a pap who takes pictures to sell. However, they never forgot each other, though Laine is bitter while Michael feels like she's the one who got away. They finally meet again, and a new journey starts with a bunch of complications, which kept me on the edge of my seat while becoming very emotional. it's not like they don't have sparks galore, it's just all kinds of feelings have festered are in front of them, not to mention she's the enemy when it comes to Michael's chosen career so there's that biggie. Can they get past these issues while in the spotlight for a second chance at love?! You'll have to hit those one click buttons to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
April 20, 2020
I haven't read Shuttergirl, so I can't compare the two versions of this story, but this is one of those books that had me smiling in the end! I loved the bond that Laine and Michael shared, and how much they loved one another that they were willing to sacrifice their happiness for the other person's.
As the title suggests, Laine and Michael were star-crossed lovers, what with one of them being a Hollywood star and the other a member of the paparazzi. This story, though, is so much more than a VERY steamy romance--it's also about forgiving, accepting, and loving ourselves. I highly suggest starting this book when you have time to read all 371 pages as it's not easy to put down!
Star Crossed is a contemporary Hollywood romance written in dual first-person POV. It's a standalone that ends with a HEA. No cliffhanger, no cheating.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review.
As the title suggests, Laine and Michael were star-crossed lovers, what with one of them being a Hollywood star and the other a member of the paparazzi. This story, though, is so much more than a VERY steamy romance--it's also about forgiving, accepting, and loving ourselves. I highly suggest starting this book when you have time to read all 371 pages as it's not easy to put down!
Star Crossed is a contemporary Hollywood romance written in dual first-person POV. It's a standalone that ends with a HEA. No cliffhanger, no cheating.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review.
March 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this story of Michael and “Shuttergirl” and their second chance, opposite attracts love story. Liane is a paparazzi photographer who runs all over the city of Los Angeles catching stars in compromising positions. Her favorite target is Michael Greydon, Hollywood royalty, a man she knew in high school.
Liane had a difficult life as a foster child and runaway. This book includes settings and situations that may trigger some readers, but I appreciate the author addressing these painful realities. Michael was born into wealth in an imperfect but loving family. Yet we all struggle and Michael needs to find his way, as well.
I enjoyed the scenes where Laine presided over nighttime LA. She runs the streets, building connections all to get the best possible photo. The author’s description of these wanderings created a vivid picture in my mind and now I want to visit LA again.
Liane had a difficult life as a foster child and runaway. This book includes settings and situations that may trigger some readers, but I appreciate the author addressing these painful realities. Michael was born into wealth in an imperfect but loving family. Yet we all struggle and Michael needs to find his way, as well.
I enjoyed the scenes where Laine presided over nighttime LA. She runs the streets, building connections all to get the best possible photo. The author’s description of these wanderings created a vivid picture in my mind and now I want to visit LA again.
April 12, 2020
Star Crossed brings a new twist to Hollywood romance. It was different I have not read a lot of Paparrazi (heroine) and Movie Star (hero) story line. It usually is body guard and Hollywood star. That was a bit, interesting for me. At the heart of the story, there was a big secret that comes out that had my heart clenching for our Shuttergirl. Her character is so strong that I did not see that one coming. CD Reiss will not disappoint with a HEA. These characters deserved it!
My only downfall was that I felt a bit detached to the full story. I was waiting for the moment that I would start flying through the pages. That didn't happen to me with this one. I love the author dearly and will stay reading her books. If you like reading about Hollywood romance with some twists and turns, this book may be for you. 3.5 Star Rating.
~Crystal's Book World Blog~
My only downfall was that I felt a bit detached to the full story. I was waiting for the moment that I would start flying through the pages. That didn't happen to me with this one. I love the author dearly and will stay reading her books. If you like reading about Hollywood romance with some twists and turns, this book may be for you. 3.5 Star Rating.
~Crystal's Book World Blog~
April 16, 2020
It's a re-read for me..I loved these two before and I love them even more now! The author added new scenes and a new epilogue..the story is as powerful as the first time I read it!
This book blew me away.
It's CD Reiss, it’s her style, her words..no matter what she writes she nails it.
It's contemporary romance, not erotica, but believe me you wouldn't want it any other way because the only thing that matters is the way she uses words to draw you in and this story never lets you go.
Laine and Michael are so different yet so similar, opposite sides yet so near.
What happens when the perfect man and her nemesis meet?
It's not all hearts and flowers, it’s still CD Reiss after all, but it's the perfect mix. You get the good, the bad and everything in between.
It's real and ugly at times, it's raw and powerful and it's beauty.
Trust me, you don't want to miss it!!!
This book blew me away.
It's CD Reiss, it’s her style, her words..no matter what she writes she nails it.
It's contemporary romance, not erotica, but believe me you wouldn't want it any other way because the only thing that matters is the way she uses words to draw you in and this story never lets you go.
Laine and Michael are so different yet so similar, opposite sides yet so near.
What happens when the perfect man and her nemesis meet?
It's not all hearts and flowers, it’s still CD Reiss after all, but it's the perfect mix. You get the good, the bad and everything in between.
It's real and ugly at times, it's raw and powerful and it's beauty.
Trust me, you don't want to miss it!!!
April 15, 2020
Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous. This book has a story with which I am familiar, and yet, not at all. It is more. So much more! There's even greater depth and heft to it; emotionally more layered and compelling. Michael and Laine have long lingered in my brain library, in a special place for those books which I do not ever want to forget and they are now even more interesting and so very lovable.
CD Reiss has such a skill with language, weaving words in a magical way that makes my heart leap with sheer pleasure. I have highlighted so many phrases, sentences and paragraphs reflecting the smile on my face as I read such fabulous magical combinations of words to reflect thoughts and feelings. I could hear Michael and Laine so clearly.
Thank you Christine for taking the time too tell us this story again, making it even more heart expandingly beautiful. I loved it then, and the audio, and I have loved it even more now. Reading bliss. 💖💖💖💖💖💖🥂🥂
CD Reiss has such a skill with language, weaving words in a magical way that makes my heart leap with sheer pleasure. I have highlighted so many phrases, sentences and paragraphs reflecting the smile on my face as I read such fabulous magical combinations of words to reflect thoughts and feelings. I could hear Michael and Laine so clearly.
Thank you Christine for taking the time too tell us this story again, making it even more heart expandingly beautiful. I loved it then, and the audio, and I have loved it even more now. Reading bliss. 💖💖💖💖💖💖🥂🥂
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