The Location Shoot

Red Carpet Romance #1

by Patricia Leavy

Controversial filmmaker Jean Mercier is shooting a film on location in Sweden. While spending the summer creating his latest work of cinematic art, he lives in a nearby inn with his lead Albie Hughes, British veteran of stage and screen; Charlotte Reed, British indie film queen; Michael Hennesey, American TV heartthrob; Willow Barnes, fallen former teen star looking to make a comeback; and Finn Forrester, legendary Hollywood movie star. Mercier invites his friend Ella Sinclair—a beautiful, bohemian-spirited American philosopher known for her provocative writing—to stay with them for the summer. When Ella arrives, Finn is instantly enchanted by her, and soon they fall madly in love. Finn wants to plan a life together, but Ella harbors fears and convinces him to wait until the film wraps to decide their future. In a case of life imitating art, the film they are creating explores “the big questions” and prompts the stars to reflect on the crossroads they face in their own lives. How will their experiences on location affect them when they return home? The answers won’t come until months later, when the cast and crew reconvene on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival—but their revelation will make for one unforgettable night.

Genres: Romance, Fiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published October 10, 2023

About the author

Patricia Leavy, Ph.D., is a bestselling author. She has published over fifty books, earning commercial and critical success in both fiction and nonfiction, and her work has been translated into many languages. Patricia has received over 100 book honors as well as career awards from the New England Sociological Association, the American Creativity Association, the American Educational Research Association, the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry, and the National Art Education Association. In 2024 the London Arts-Based Research Centre established "The Patricia Leavy Award for Arts-Based Research." She lives in Maine with her family. Patricia loves writing, reading, watching films, and traveling. These days, she's focused on writing feel-good love stories.

Reviews

[Shalen Lowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Patricia's books and this one is especially great. The premise of the story is that an avantgarde filmmaker is shooting a movie in Sweden over the summer and living with his cast. Jean Mercier, the filmmaker, is a terrific character. I love his dystopian views of the world and his twisted sense of humor. The lead characters are Jean's friend Ella-- a beautiful, free-spirited philosopher he invited to join them for the summer who happens to write super provocative and hysterical things about sex-- and Finn, a handsome movie star and all around good guy. Finn and Ella fall madly in love. Basically, they are perfect for each other, and you want them to be together. The other characters are also great and run the gamut of the kinds of actors you might find in Hollywood. They each have enough of a storyline to make you root for them too. I won't give away the end but it's awesome and kept me reading eagerly until the last word. A super satisfying, romantic, uplifting escape. Perfect for a vacation, a weekend afternoon alone, or a book club. Lots to talk about, but mostly it's a novel just for pure enjoyment!

[Jonathan (Jon) · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

𝘼 𝙘𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙥 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙞𝙡𝙢𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙎𝙬𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙣.

I knew absolutely nothing about this book when I picked it up, but it was sent to me so I thought it was worth the try. I don’t really know how to describe my feelings with this book.

This book kind of gives a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes in a film. I enjoyed the Swedish setting and found the premise to be super interesting and unique. The characters were very fleshed out and kept my attention the whole way through.

Each character had their own storyline that had me intrigued. I found this to be the perfect book to read if you’re looking for something easy and quick. The only thing I didn’t love about the book was the love story in it, I just wasn’t the biggest fan of it and the way these characters became messy.

I haven’t seen many people talk about this book at all, but I can definitely see the intended reader. Others will surely enjoy this more than I did!

Thank you so much BookSparks and the publisher for the review copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Rhiannon Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The location shoot was my first book to read of Patricia Leavy, and I can honestly say I want to read more of her books. The character development throughout the book was amazing.she made you feel like you actually knew the characters and they felt like real people.

The storyline follows Finn and Ella but you also get to know so much about the secondary characters. I was invested in not only Ella and Finn I also wanted to know where everyone else was going to end up. The plot was great, the banter between all the characters really made this for an enjoyable read.

I cannot wait to read more of her books! This was a great book!

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate Leary’s Brigadoon/country house approach to writing a didactic novel. I still like Spark a bit better, as there was more character interiority. Still, this was an enjoyable weekend read.

[Ann]

I got this book free at a conference and … um … well, I’ll say that reading it has made it abundantly clear that I do not enjoy romance novels (with the exception of those by Curtis Sittenfeld). Also the leading lady “giggled” on every damn page, what’s up with that.

[Dee Turner · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wow, two in a row I absolutely did not like; that's exceedingly rare.

As the title indicates, this novel very loosely concerns the making of a movie. It's narrowly filmed entirely in a ballroom, the story of the birthday celebration of a family patriarch. The director is avant garde, which is to say, none of the actors know what he wants; he seems to have abdicated directing altogether. At first, the ensemble is confused. Suddenly a stunningly beautiful, non-fiction author named Ella Sinclair, a dear friend of the director, appears--and immediately becomes everybody's GURU. She speaks with the authority and wisdom of ages, although she's but 34. Almost instantaneously, she brings the cast and director altogether and voilà, they become FAMILY. F'real.

The very first moment he lays eyes on her--because, of course, she is SO stunningly beautiful--American actor Fin Forester (I mean, REALLY?), falls head over heels. First, this is the very definition of infatuation; that it's based merely on physical beauty (he falls before she even speaks!) is so completely off-putting. Then, too, as soon as they get together, he insists on calling her "baby'--a nickname many men use when they seem to forget their partner's name. She's never Ella again, until she starts backing away. And then he's so fawning, it's completely surreal.

Observations. The author clearly knows nothing about filmmaking, which would have added substance the book so painfully needs. She could've done a soupçon of research to make the book engaging. And a movie taking place in just one room takes three months to film--??

Next. That this paragon of psychological truth and virtue has never even attempted to address her deep-seated abandonment issues is essentially inconceivable. The structure of the entire novel is based on her sudden full stop with Fin, and how he falls over backward trying to appease her inner demons.

Of course there's the customary HEA, because this kind of mindlessness demands it. Sheesh.

The state of the world being what it is right now, I just--CAN'T. So I'm heading next to Jon Fosse's The Other Name (about doppelgängers!), the first in his Nobel-winning duology, Septology.

This was just too much of nothing.

[Brittany Bancroft · Rating 1 out of 5]

I received this book in a giveaway.

Pros: Very quick read
Cons: Everything else about the book. The love story between Finn and Ella was completely unrealistic. Also, the overuse of “baby” as a pet name that Finn called Ella quickly became insufferable. I was hoping there would at least be some revelation surrounding the theme of the movie being shot, but, alas, that plot line was weak as well. The story had a lot of potential, but fell very short.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is more than a romance novel, it is about finding your true self and happiness.

A small cast of characters are on location shooting a film. The director is a bit avant-garde, but he doesn't explain anything to his actors about his methods. It takes several days, perhaps a week or two before the lightbulb goes off, and they understand what they are meant to do. 

Ella is a bit of a free spirit, and it is interesting to see how much is attributed to her. She seems to be a miracle worker in everyone's eyes—maybe because she is on the outside looking in?

The actors all have their foibles, and it is nice to see the human side and not the persona that is spun for the public. However, those weaknesses are what make them intriguing characters.

The main romantic relationship is between Finn and Ella. It is saccharinely sweet. Finn and Ella both want more, but they have some baggage to work through before it can truly work. In fact, we have to wait until the end to uncover the truth in their relationship.

While Finn and Ella are the main focus, we learn more about the secondary characters and what makes them tick. Each learns something to take back with them once filming is complete. Perhaps it will make their life that much better. 

There is a follow-up book, and I look forward to seeing these characters again and learning what direction their life is going.

We give this book 4 paws up.

[Jessica Gullion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patricia Leavy does it again!! I love all her novels, and The Location Shoot does not disappoint. A lovely romance that also grapples with the nature of art in a meaningful way. Definitely recommend.

[Rica Ramos- Keenum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found a great escape in this book. The characters, setting, plot and scenes were entertaining and engaging. A solid read! Well done, Patricia Leavy!

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was looking forward to reading The Location Shoot, but it did not measure up to my expectations. It had a strong start, but began to lose momentum halfway through. I liked that the actors and actresses had different backgrounds and troubles they were bringing with them on set. I would have liked if the story more evenly explored each character. I didn’t feel attached to any of them. Ella and Finn were definitely the main focus of the novel. I didn’t feel like the relationship between Finn and Ella was real and believable. It felt one-sided at times and Finn kind of pressured Ella into it when she had doubts. It also moved fast, especially in the ending. Additionally, Ella seemed too amazing. She did have her faults and her past definitely affected her view towards relationships, but overall it felt like the other characters placed Ella on a pedestal. I wasn’t impressed with the ending. It felt rushed and anticlimactic. This is a good read for those looking for something entertaining, but it lacked the depth it promised.

Thank you to NetGalley and She Writes Press for the ARC in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.

[Nina Austin · Rating 2 out of 5]

It is rare that I don’t finish a book. I kept wanting to like this one as a light, fun read but the central love story was just too saccharine sweet and false. In fact each character was so fantastical and unrealistic that it became aggravating to read. Not for me

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Location Shoot, penned by Patricia Leavy, is an enlightening exploration of art, philosophy, and life’s profound queries. Set against the backdrop of an intensive three-month film recording by the gifted French filmmaker Jean Mercier, the story unfolds primarily within the confines of a spacious, sunny-hued inn in Sweden, which hosts the entire film crew.

Leavy’s eloquent and evocative descriptions of the setting are deeply enchanting, leaving readers longing to experience these places, should they exist beyond the novel’s pages. The narrative’s charm isn’t solely defined by the romantic entanglement of a central couple but also by its well-sketched ensemble cast – Albie, Charlotte, Michael, and Willow – who each bring a unique and compelling spark to the story.

In the heart of the novel lies the tender romance between Finn Forrester, a renowned actor known for his sea-blue eyes and light-brown locks, and Gabriella – affectionately called Ella – Sinclair, an American philosopher defined by her bohemian spirit and captivating green eyes. Unlike many narratives where external factors pose the primary challenges, this novel excels in introspection, offering a contemplative view of individual responsibility and the healing of personal traumas.

Ella, despite her vibrant exterior, lays bare her vulnerability for readers. This level of candidness gives us insight into her character, leading to an understanding of her actions throughout the novel, albeit occasionally stirring feelings of frustration. Despite such emotions, the story reaches a fulfilling conclusion, brimming with a sense of humanity and personal transformation.

Leavy’s writing is generally light-hearted yet manages to impart a plethora of crucial life lessons. It highlights the fragility and intricacies of human existence and draws poetic analogies, such as equating the taste of blueberries to love. In closing, it’s my sincere wish for prospective readers to find themselves immersed in the pages of The Location Shoot, thereby inspiring them to produce exquisite art and ponder over the profundities of life.

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Filmmaker Jean Mercier is known for his provocative style. His latest movie, being filmed in Sweden, brings together a diverse cast of actors and hangers on. While the cast and crew shoots during the days, most of their evenings find them holed up at a local inn where the mercurial director is staying. Renowned movie star Finn Forrester is smitten when one of Mercier’s friends shows up, the ravishing American philosopher Ella Sinclair. There is almost an immediate connection between the two, and it causes disarray on the set. When the movie wraps, several of those involved can’t seem to readjust to reality when the cameras are no longer rolling.

The Location Shoot, by Patricia Leavy, is a thoughtful and scintillating novel. It’s contemporary fiction, and is somewhat reminiscent of the Orson Welles movie The Other Side of the Wind.

The novel is character and dialogue driven, and there’s a lot to admire about the juxtaposition of different strong willed and opinionated individuals brought together for the sake of making a movie. That’s why they’re spending time with each other, but it’s really more of a plot device allowing them to interact. At times, they feel like a bunch of random strangers at a dinner party who have little in common. They have a job to do, though, and they must see it through, even if some of their personalities start to chafe the more time they spend together.

As fascinating as some of the interactions are between Mercier and his cast and among the different cast members, some readers might wish for a more tightly focused narrative. When reading a novel, it’s important to be able to identify whose story it is. In this case, that’s not entirely clear. Is this Mercier’s story? Are Forrester and Sinclair the true stars?

In any event, that minor quibble aside, the crescendo, when the entire crew reconvenes at Cannes months after the shoot, is the novel’s most compelling sequence. That is where the reader truly gets some insight into what the making of this film has done to the psyches of everyone involved.

[Saya Jacaranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author creates a storyline filled with rich characters, each grappling with their own desires, fears, and ambitions, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.
One of the book's strengths lies in its exploration of the creative process behind filmmaking, providing readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and dynamics involved in bringing a movie to life. From the chaotic set to the intimate conversations among the cast and crew, the book offers a realistic portrayal of the highs and lows of the industry, making it both informative and entertaining for readers interested in the art of cinema.
Moreover, the setting of Sweden adds a unique backdrop to the story, with its picturesque landscapes and cultural nuances enhancing the overall atmosphere of the narrative. The contrast between the tranquility of the surroundings and the intensity of the characters' emotions further adds profundity to the storytelling, creating a compelling juxtaposition that draws readers into the world of the novel.
The interactions between the characters are another highlight of the book, with each relationship explored in depth, from the budding romance between Finn and Ella to the camaraderie among the cast and crew. These dynamics add layers to the narrative, driving the plot forward and keeping readers invested in the outcome of the story.
Overall, the book offers a captivating and thought-provoking read that explores themes of love, ambition, and artistic integrity against the backdrop of the filmmaking industry. With its compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and richly detailed setting, it is sure to appeal to readers looking for a compelling and immersive literary experience.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly found this book fascinating. I consider myself a reader who’s forte is not romance plots but this book has definitely met my expectations. From the first chapter, I got involved in that Hollywood world, where dreams are born, but souls are lost. What I liked most about this book is how it shows the life between the crazy shoots and the personal lives of these famous artists. The author narrates every detail so well that it makes the story come alive, making me feel like I was right there with the biggest stars in all of Hollywood. There is nothing like finding a work that allows you to let your biggest dreams and expectations flow through the words and characterization so assertively. The story revolves around the chemistry between the protagonist, a talented but struggling actress, and a handsome A-list actor. What begins as a professional collaboration on a movie set soon turns into a passionate romance filled with all the glitz and glamor one would expect. But beyond the superficial, it also delves into deeper themes such as ambition, identity, and the sacrifices we make for love. Watching the characters grapple with these issues added a layer of complexity to the story that kept me hooked until the very end.
Of course, no romance would be complete without a good dose of hot moments, and this book certainly delivers. The chemistry between the two main characters practically drives you crazy, making their love story very intriguing.
Overall, I recommend this book. It's a light, easy read that will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good love story with a Hollywood twist.

[Rachel Haines · Rating 4 out of 5]

Acclaimed (and controversial) filmmaker Jean Mercier is set to make a new film with a diverse cast of A list stars. They’ll be filming on location in Sweden and will not only have nightly dinners together, but will also live together in an Inn. The cast comes from all walks of life and each has their own strengths, struggles and insecurities. Mercier’s film “Celebration” is an artistic expression about the meaning of life. While filming, the cast, and Mercier’s muse, end up exploring life’s biggest questions and how they relate to not only the film’s plot, but their personal lives as well.

This is my first time reading a novel by Patricia Leavy and I was not disappointed! “The Location Shoot” is a love story that could warm even the coldest of hearts. One of the lead actors, Finn, ends up falling for Mercier’s muse and long time friend, Ella. Their love story is filled with great passion and fantasy.

Finn and Ella are a large focus in this novel, but I also really enjoyed the way that Patricia Leavy explored the supporting characters. Albie, the 73 year old seasoned actor in the group, adds so much humility and warmth to the plot. The youngest actor, Willow, is so relatable, as she touches on imposter syndrome and trusting your gut. Supporting actors Charlotte and Michael have wonderful story arcs as well.

I am giving “The Location Shoot” by Patricia Leavy 4 out of 5 stars. There are lots of feel-good moments and plenty of romance, but there are also passages where you may shed a tear. It is extremely heart warming and real. I would recommend to anyone who enjoys stories about love, life and the big picture moments that make us who we are.

[Dani Savante · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Location Shoot centers around the compelling figure of Jean Mercier, a filmmaker whose artistic vision propels the story. Mercier's perspective introduces us to a rich ensemble of characters, each bringing a distinct flavor to the narrative. Notable among them are Albie Hughes, a seasoned actor, and Ella Sinclair, a philosopher with an air of mystery. Their diverse viewpoints add multifaceted depth to the story. Initially unsure of what to expect from this author, I found myself thoroughly impressed. Patricia Leavy’s ability to delve deep into the psyche of her characters is what sets this novel apart. She adeptly navigates through their doubts, fears, and aspirations, making the characters' experiences resonate with the reader. The novel's romance, particularly between Finn Forrester and Ella Sinclair, is a central theme, drawing readers into a whirlwind of passion and uncertainty. As their love story intertwines with the production of Mercier's film, the lines between fiction and reality blur, leading to unexpected discoveries and moments of deep self-reflection. Moreover, the book ventures into existential territory, prompting readers to contemplate significant questions about life, love, and identity.
Despite being a work of fiction, the narrative possesses a grounded authenticity that makes it profoundly believable. The Location Shoot is an insightful journey into the realms of love, art, and the pursuit of meaning in a complex world. It’s a highly recommended read for those who appreciate a story that both entertains and provokes thought.

[Anjali · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book started out strongly, and I was immediately engaged with the idea of a disparate cast coming together with a brilliant filmmaker in a remote location. My reading experience went downhill from there for several reasons, but it's clear I'm in the minority so don't let my opinion dissuade you from giving this book a try if the premise interests you! The main protagonist, Ella, is a brilliant beautiful charismatic philosopher (!) who is besties with the filmmaker. Ella immediately called to mind the women in Robert Heinlein's novels - impossibly perfect in an almost misogynistic way. Oh, but don't worry, Ella's not perfect. No, Ella "giggles" on every other page and sometimes twice a page. I just couldn't get past this. No one in a book should have need of giggling save for perhaps a child, once. Maaaaaybe twice. Ella and Finn, a handsome Hollywood actor, experience InstaLove (ugh, my least favorite trope!), and the second they do, Ella turns into an insecure mess. AND Finn calls her "baby" every other paragraph and she never objects to it! All the other people working on the film have hurdles to overcome, which they do almost seamlessly with extremely smooth trajectories. I think there's an intriguing book buried in here somewhere, but the love story wrecked it for me. Thank you to NetGalley and She Writes Press for a digital review copy.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book effectively showcases the impact and strength of human connections, making it both engaging and extraordinary. It provides an intriguing glimpse into the world of filmmaking, bringing a sense of magic to the narrative. The characters are well-crafted, with the author skillfully conveying the emotions of each one, making their journeys captivating to follow. Ella’s character is particularly relatable, portrayed as both a brilliant writer and similar to Philippe. Finn, the legendary actor, is reminiscent of iconic figures like George Clooney or Brad Pitt, adding a familiar touch. Their developing relationship is charming and absorbing. Additionally, all characters, including Margaret, the late actor's widow, contribute significantly to the richness of the story, each adding their unique texture. While the primary theme revolves around love and romance, the author also delves into human connections and personal growth. The exotic film setting enhances the story's atmosphere, particularly in key scenes. The potential of this book being adapted into a movie is exciting, especially if the original, entertaining dialogue is retained. The witty exchanges between characters like Ella, Jean, Finn, and Albie are a highlight, often touching on sensitive topics with elegance. The immersive dialogues and scenes create a feeling of being part of the story.

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Patricia Leavy is the brilliant mind behind the book The Location Shoot. This novel revolves around the filmmaking world in a fascinating and compelling way. The novel centers on a controversial filmmaker, Jean Mercier, whose life becomes closely connected with the main actors in his film. The dynamics shift notably when Ella Sinclair, an American philosopher, falls deeply in love with Finn Forrester, a legendary Hollywood star. Set against the backdrop of the Cannes Festival, Patricia Leavy skillfully develops a story rich in love, passion, and sensuality, capitalizing on every element to enhance the narrative. I found the book engaging for various reasons. It was not just a captivating read but also a source of inspiration, prompting reflection and personal introspection. The characters are compelling, with each new introduction seemingly surpassing the last in charm and depth, all striving for their desires and purposes. The novel's approach to romance is particularly striking, presented in a way that makes one yearn for a more vivid and intense life experience. Leavy's portrayal of love in its many forms is a standout aspect of her writing. The dialogue is straightforward and brief, yet entirely engaging, drawing the reader in from the first chapter.
This was my first encounter with Patricia Leavy's work, and it has made a lasting impression.

[EL]

Arthouse film director Jean Mercier brings together five very different actors for his new film, Celebration, which they are shooting in Sweden. The cast comprises veteran British actor Albie Hughes; womanising A-lister Michael Hennesy; well respected indie actress Charlotte Reed; Willow Barnes - a former child star trying to revive her career and be taken seriously as an actress; and finally, Finn Forrester, who has left longtime girlfriend Savannah in LA, and promptly falls in love with Jean's friend Ella. Celebration is a film which asks life's big questions, reflecting real life as it leaves each of the actors contemplating how they can apply these to their own lives.
The premise of this book intrigued me, and ultimately I really loved it. It's pure escapism (I finished it in an afternoon) with a touch of fantasist romance. The characters were great but some plot holes did let this book down. The main one which bugged me is that Ella is a philosopher yet leaves it to the last chapter to examine her own issues, despite being the catalyst for solving everybody else's issues.
Having said this, I adored the writing, and I've not highlighted so many passages in a book before.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher and author for the advance review copy!

[Lilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Location Shoot by Patricia Leavy is a captivating blend of romance, existential exploration, and Hollywood glamour. The novel immerses readers in the world of filmmaking, offering an intimate look at the lives of its characters against the backdrop of a picturesque Swedish location shoot.

What struck me most was the depth of the characters and their personal journeys. From the enigmatic filmmaker Jean Mercier to the captivating philosopher Ella Sinclair, each character is richly developed, making them feel like old friends by the end of the story. The romance between Ella and Finn is both passionate and poignant, and their struggles with love and commitment resonate deeply.

Leavy's writing is elegant and evocative, transporting you to the heart of the film industry while exploring profound existential themes. The narrative seamlessly weaves together the characters' personal experiences with the themes of the film they are creating, resulting in a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.

Leavy has created a beautifully crafted novel that offers a unique blend of romance, philosophy, and Hollywood intrigue. It's a story that stays with you long after you've turned the final page, leaving you pondering life's big questions and the power of love and art.

[Aneley Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fiction within a fiction.

The Location Shoot is a novel that will appeal to those who appreciate intricate stories and complex characters. Set against the backdrop of the cinema world, it weaves a captivating romance centered around Finn Forrester, a renowned Hollywood star, and Ella Sinclair, an American philosopher with a bohemian essence. The narrative includes a host of intriguing characters and unfolds a complex love story marked by emotional highs and lows. Patricia Leavy has skillfully crafted each character, imbuing them with unique backstories and personalities. The novel’s multi-dimensional narrative, though fictional, feels remarkably realistic due to its compelling and emotionally rich relationships. For readers who enjoy romance, this book stands out with its straightforward yet intriguing, intelligent, and creative writing style.
As my first foray into Leavy’s work, I found her ability to evoke and express emotions particularly impressive. Her distinctive writing style fully engaged me, blending traditional romantic elements and some clichés with a philosophical depth, resulting in a refreshing and enjoyable read. This book is a strong recommendation for fans of the genre looking for a novel with a novel approach.

[CarlitasFox · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating romance
This novel taps into a fantasy that resonates with many: the chance encounter and ensuing romance with a famous star. It unfolds like a classic Hollywood romance, complete with the twists and turns that lend credibility and tenderness to the love story. The connection between the characters is palpable, brought to life through dialogues that reveal their feelings, fears, and dreams. I was drawn in by the narrative, reminiscent of favorite romantic films where an everyday woman finds herself enamored with a charismatic, successful man, echoing the charm of movies like "Notting Hill," "A Cinderella Story," or "Pretty Woman." The author’s writing style is engaging, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the world of love stories. The theme of "dreams coming true" weaves through the narrative, adding a layer of enchantment. The characters are portrayed as bohemian and dynamic yet grounded in their clear life goals and open to change for love. This blend makes the story not just captivating but also inspiring.
This novel is a celebration of love’s triumph against all odds, a compelling read that’s hard to put down. Its portrayal of romance is both dreamy and substantial, making it a delightful read.

[Agustina Sureda · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who works in the movie industry and loves it, this book now has a special place in my heart. Patricia Leavy excels in crafting an authentic and detailed setting that closely mirrors the realities of film production. The characters are vividly brought to life, with their actions and thoughts reflecting the nuances of their acting profession. This level of realism and depth in character portrayal lends the book a remarkable believability. The romantic subplot is well-crafted and familiar, resonating with themes that many readers enjoy in other works. Where the book truly shines is in its portrayal of interpersonal dynamics. Leavy's background in sociology is evident in the complex web of relationships among the characters. These interactions not only drive the narrative but also prompt the reader to ponder deep philosophical questions about life. Some of these questions are addressed within the story, while others remain intriguingly open-ended.

The Location Shoot is a standout novel that offers a unique and engaging experience. It was a pleasure to read, and I highly recommend it to those interested in a story that blends the worlds of film, sociology, and philosophy in an entertaining and thoughtful manner.

[Jessie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love, love, love this book. I’ve been a fan of Patricia Leavy’s novels for years. This is hands down my favorite.

It’s a wildly romantic novel, with a life imitates art spin. Leavy’s unique talent for weaving a thoughtful meditation on the arts into a sexy beach read is on full display in this triumphant page-turner of a book that follows the personal lives of a group making a film about the meaning of life.

Sidebar: I adored all the characters, from the dystopian Jean Mercier (the filmmaker) to each of the actors. The friendship between them all was so much fun to read. You will fall in love with the characters, but more than anything, The Location Shoot makes you fall in love with life itself.

I can only describe it as a profoundly beautiful and inspiring read. I didn’t want it to end, but the ending was pure perfection, the kind of fantasy ending that probably only happens in a romance novel but feels so satisfying. If you’re looking for a whimsical romance, this fits the bill. Finn and Ella are sexy, romantic, and aspirational in so many ways. It’s easy to see how they fell in love and to fall in love with them. Couple goals! Highly recommend!

[lynnielovesbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Location Shoot offers an exploration into the worlds of celebrity and the complexity of the human experience. The novel immerses readers in the lives of a diverse group of well-known actors, led by the controversial filmmaker Jean Mercier.
The narrative revolves around the ensemble cast. Each character is crafted so their backgrounds and personalities contribute to the story. The heart of the novel lies in its ability to blend the characters' on-set experiences with their personal lives, creating a compelling narrative that blurs the lines between fiction and reality.
As the actors delve into their roles, the film's exploration of "the big questions" becomes a mirror for the characters, forcing them to confront what is missing in their own lives.
The novel excels in character development but there are areas in the book when the pacing could be tightened - specifically in the Finn and Ella’s storyline.
The Location Shoot is a compelling read that navigates the complexities of celebrity life. With its well-crafted characters, the novel delivers a thought-provoking experience that lingers in the reader's mind.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a captivating storyline that cleverly intertwines the realms of reality and fiction. Patricia Leavy's narrative is a blend of epic and romantic elements, delivering an enthralling experience from beginning to end. The plot is skillfully crafted, with each event seamlessly leading into the next, creating a story that captivates with its beauty and suspense.
At its heart, the story explores themes of love, dreams, fantasy, and thoughtful consideration of the future, elements that resonate deeply with the reader. The protagonist, Ella, embodies the spirit of a dreamer, making her journey and experiences profoundly relatable. This aspect of the narrative particularly resonated with me, as it mirrored the universal aspirations and daydreams many of us share.
The Location Shoot is more than just a novel; it's a journey through the power of literature and the deep connections it can forge. Leavy’s writing is a testament to the joys of reading, offering a rich and immersive experience. This book is a must-read, not just for avid readers but for anyone who appreciates the profound impact of a well-told story.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel isn't centered around fast-paced action but rather focuses on the authentic portrayal of characters, their interpersonal dynamics, and personal growth. Set in a secluded Swedish location, the story revolves around a group of actors and the enigmatic director Jean Mercier, known for his penchant for remote filming sites. As they reside together in an inn, the boundaries between their on-screen roles and personal lives blur, creating a rich tapestry of experiences. What struck me as particularly compelling about this novel is its originality. It stands out with its fresh approach and intricately crafted characters, each distinct in their traits and personalities. Observing their transformations over the course of the narrative is both touching and insightful. Leavy's writing style further enhances the experience, skillfully blending plot progression with vivid scene descriptions. The novel's exploration of themes such as love, loss, growth, anger, selfishness, pride, forgiveness, and transformation adds depth and relatability.

Without a doubt, I give this book 5 stars.