Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Spotlight #3

The Director's Cut

Rate this book
Ready for your close up?...

Issy and James have survived dangers and challenges to their relationship. But now the cameras are rolling, a new threat could ruin everything.

With Isabella, sparkling behind the camera, and James smouldering behind it, life on set is sexy and explosive. So when a malicious press leak, could end filming, their chance of a real relationship is suddenly in jeopardy.

217 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 10, 2013

81 people are currently reading
949 people want to read

About the author

J.S. Taylor

11 books549 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,053 (32%)
4 stars
1,194 (37%)
3 stars
761 (23%)
2 stars
145 (4%)
1 star
40 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
Profile Image for Melissa Goldberg.
22 reviews
June 3, 2013
The bad
- Lots of errors made this a tad difficult to get through.
- Foreshadowing was really bad, to the point you know everything before it happens
- Hate that every book in the series feels incomplete

The good
- Lot of chemistry between Isabella and James (makes for some great scenes)
Profile Image for Liz Lawson.
729 reviews29 followers
August 23, 2013
Whist i am loving this story I was disappointed to find that what was originally a trilogy is now stretching to a forth book and for this reasonI have given this three stars. When I purchased the trilogy I believed that no more purchases would be necessary. Arthur's changing their mind are guilty of mis-selling and exploiting their readers. 1) Had I known there was going to be more books then I wouldn't have started reading the series until it was complete. 2). I would have made an informed decision as to whether I could afford to purchase all the books. This practice of ripping off readers may come back to haunt the authors in the future and they may find customer less likely to purchase their books.
Have revised my rating when I only had to wait a few hours for the next book Final Act
Profile Image for Jan.
130 reviews3 followers
May 17, 2013
Early release review:

Wow, is all I can say.

Following on from The Lipstick Stalker, it goes on the emotional journey of James and Izzy. Izzy learns more about herself under the tutelage of James, and his Berkeley Method of acting. I loved how emotional it made me and how I could see it through Izzy's eyes.

James, even though he is broken himself can see through people and get the best out of them. Even though he is keeping secrets, to keep Izzy safe, he just needs to be more open with her. I love James. It's like he is directing the whole thing and he does/doesn't know how it's going to end.

Which is great about this series, you keep on guessing, what is going to happen.

The mole I kind of guessed it but won't reveal who it is. Loved the Barcelona setting and James romancing Izzy his own "Berkeley Way".

The leading man never saw that one coming, but it is fitting with the story.

Ben I can't stand that character and I hope Lorna finds out what a sleaze ball he is. Plus he needs his comeuppance to happen in the final book.

Lorna reminds me of Camilla, totally under the spell of Ben.

Callum and Natalie are good too.

With the three of them together Izzy, Callum and Natalie. They remind me of The Good (Izzy), The Bad (Callum) and The Ugly (Natalie).

Can't wait for the final book to come out, to find out what the "final act" is in this production is going to be.

Great writing JS.
Profile Image for Tabitha Schmer.
419 reviews13 followers
October 26, 2015
3.5 stars for me. While I still really enjoy this series this book just don't do as much for me as the first two
Profile Image for Sharon Mariampillai.
2,266 reviews94 followers
January 24, 2016
This was sexier than the first two book. I mean...wow...this book was sexy and hot. The story improved more in this book as I got more from the characters and got more comfortable with the way J.S. Taylor writes. There were some really hot, steamy scenes.

The characters were great. I think the best part about the book was watching Issy and James's relationship fall in love. I also thought it was cool that I got to know more about Issy as a character. It was really special, and my favourite part of the books.

Also, the secondary characters made me laugh and fall in love with them too. I am glad to have learned more about Natalie, as she is not my favourite character, I think I understand her more because of this book.

The ending was great. This book contained some suspense as there was a person on set leaking information about James and Issy's relationship introduced into the storyline. The book yet again ends in a cliffhanger. I can't wait to see what book 4has in store for me. Recommended for fans of FSOG. Overall, a great read.
Profile Image for Vanna.
36 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2013
I just LOVE this series. Can't get enough of it! If you've read the last two books then you definitely need to read this book. If you haven't read the books, then you better stop missing out and read book one first!! The only negative thing about this book would be that I wasn't really surprised at any part throughout the book; like I almost expected the surprises, but I still enjoyed reading it.

Oh, James! What a passionate man! I just heart him. I'm not gonna lie...I imagined being Issy at times. Haha.

The Spotlight series is a series that is comparable to the 50 Shades Trilogy and The Crossfire Series just not as long of books as them. The final book, The Final Act, is coming out in August according to the author so we don't have to wait super long for the final book. Hopefully, it gets released even sooner than that. I'm going to be sad when the series is over. :(

There is no cliffhanger and there is a HEA so get to clicking!
Profile Image for Katerina.
318 reviews26 followers
June 15, 2013
A bloodless series...
I refuse to classify this as a romance.
This director and his wannabe actress annoyed the crap out of me.
Thin story, boarding to ridiculous...and characters I constantly wanted to throttle!
I never imagined there could be a more upsetting h then Ana Steele from FSOG, but Isabella puts this to a whole other level!
Don´t bother...
Profile Image for jea chan.
227 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2013
It was okay... but I gave three stars because the first few sex scenes were really good and I liked the 'shame' thing, it made me think, lol. but the plot was... meh. Nothing exciting happened and a bit predictable... Still looking forward to the fourth book though!
Profile Image for Lucy Edwards.
Author 23 books70 followers
April 21, 2015
Third book in and Ive tried really hard to give this series a go and hoped that it would get better but if I'm totally honest, I'm getting bored fast. I will read the final book in the series but I feel like it's missing something.
Profile Image for Tara Marie.
484 reviews18 followers
May 19, 2013
I found this book lacking the heat the others had.. I wanted more steamy scenes and less drama but I guess I can't like every book now can i
Profile Image for Anita.
1,127 reviews1 follower
December 28, 2022
Good

Book 3 in the spot light series, this is James and Isabella 's story, James as a dark past that he refuses to discuss, you do get the opportunity to download a 3 page sneak peak, once you have downloaded once you don't have to download again as it is the same one. Isabella also has issues that are due to the loss of her father at and early age. I would recommend this series in really enjoying it.
370 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2018
Good

I didn't care for the big reveal at the end but it was a good book between the two main characters
Profile Image for Desiree.
722 reviews5 followers
July 26, 2013
This reminded me of some I Love Lucy Show episode (and I HATE I Love Lucy). All sorts of bad shit happens, one after another, all the characters bumbling about, and at the end is some weak ass tie up. This book was all about...
>>>>>>> spoiler<<<<<<< the news leak, and at the end it's like "oh, so and so did it, but we forgive and forget, don't we cast and crew" where the fuck is the justice in that? Not even a hand slap or a frowny face! Not only that, but knowing what he knew, how the fuck did he NOT know who the leak was. come on now, this is ridiculous! >>>>>> End Spoiler<<<<<<<<<<<<

I still felt no emotional connection to a single character and not one character was consistent with the character traits they were supposed to have.

I really do not have much respect for this series, and I don't think I'll be waiting around for the conclusion. I don't really give a rat's ass what happens.

There were so many loose ends as to be ludicrous, and the typos, grammatical errors and general weakness of the scenes have left me feeling like I've wasted days of my life that I'll never get back, with absolutely no payoff or fair trade. I got nothing out of these books, not even a smile.

The only plus I could come up with on this installment is that Izzy is an intelligent main character... too often the female main character is useless and unable to add 2 + 2. They're so often these hormonal ditzes who think of nothing more than how "hot" a guy is and if they guy's going to spank them. EYE ROLL. Not that this book didn't have IZZY mostly preoccupied with the same banal bullshit, but at least she also had a brain and used it!

Well, I guess I also liked the plot. That was interesting enough too. But the delivery just wasn't strong enough, the writing wasn't stirring, and I just wasn't liking the ineffectuality of James' actoins vs. how he was being touted. He should have been MUCH MUCH MUCH stronger and so much more powerful than he was. He was a huge disappointment.
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,082 reviews895 followers
July 20, 2014

The Spotlight Series continues on set, the stalker is behind them (sort of), but now there is a press leak. James and Issy try to out maneuver the press, but it seems that the leak must be coming from within the cast & crew. This installment had a little less drama, but did add to the list of questions of what exactly is Ben's motives - is Issy's sadness more than just the death of her father and what else may haunt James from his boyhood...?

It is refreshing to see James let go of his need of control in some situations with Issy because he is overcome with his love for her. It makes you wonder about his need of control being far more of an issue of a past experience than part of his general makeup. When he wants to control her and make her submit, he is overcome with the need just to be close to her - to make love to her.

But that doesn't mean that there isn't a mix of kink in this one. The press leak does strain their ability to be as close as before, but that is when things get interesting. And Issy gets to experience the side of punishment although I think she felt far more like it was a reward. James is opening up a bit more and Issy who still holds her feelings in - has finally opened up just a little.


I love that the drama in this series seems to include just the surroundings and not them. Angsty reads can be enjoyable but every now and then you just need to be able to read a story without wanting to murder the characters. Issy and James seem to be untouched by the issues that swirl around them, although there is still more to come part of me hopes that their relationship stays steady and we aren't hurled into a world of relationship drama in the next book. And we also learn about the male lead... this could get interesting.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,162 reviews51 followers
May 23, 2013
I really enjoy this series, especially the first two books. With The Director's Cut... I don't know how I really feel. It seemed a bit rushed, I guess. And boy, it is just one problem after another with these two, eh? I don't know if this movie they're working on will ever get made.

I do enjoy reading the scenes between Issy and James though; they (usually) have really great chemistry. However, I didn't feel the connection quite as much in this book as the others. When they first met in Close Up and Personal, and Issy was auditioning, I could feel the sexual tension seeping through the words on the page. In this book, I felt I was reading more than feeling. A shame really.

I'm still looking forward to the next book, but I want more depth. More background from both of them, more actual dates (which I understand is tough based on the circumstances of their relationship), just more of everything.
Profile Image for Yve.
1,114 reviews
May 19, 2013
James has fallen head over heels for Issy; something he never thought would be possible, so he's decided to end his sham of a marriage so that he can openly be with Isabella. As James & Issy get closer and Issy is able to trust James more, she's more willing to give herself over to James; which makes to some pretty steamy scenes between them. After Issy was targeted by the Lipstick Stalker, James will do just about anything; including disrupting his filming schedule and giving interviews (which he doesn't do), to ensure that Issy isn't once again targeted by the press. The steps he takes are necessary, especially after it's discovered that there is a press leak by someone who's involved in the movie production.

While I enjoyed reading about James & Issy and their steamy relationship, I feel that the plot was lacking something and this book was mainly meant to bridge the gap between book 2: The Berkeley Method & the as of yet, unreleased book 4: The Final Cut. I love James & Issy and can't wait to see what the future holds for them.
Profile Image for Kym.
33 reviews2 followers
May 21, 2013
I have throughly enjoyed this series and to think I it was not even on my radar until I received a recommendation from one the blogs I follow. I began the series this past weekend and by yesterday AM, I had finished. Each of the books, has been quite enjoyable. There have been moments when I have wanted to knock some sense into the main characters, Issy and James, but isn't that the sign of a good story, that you begin to forget they are literary people not real people that you can pick up the phone and say "What the hell are you thinking?".

Issy and James continue to grow emotionally, especially James. Issy needs to let go some more and go with her gut more, with the help of James, I think this will happen (wait till you read the Flamanco Dance Scene... DAMN). The ancillary characters add to the story and I look foward to seeing how they affect the continuation of the story.

I really look forward to "The Final Cut." I know I will be reading the series again so that I can keep the feelings going until August...
Profile Image for SecretNinjaGRL.
211 reviews22 followers
June 26, 2013
This isn't the final book of the series, FYI. I was under the impression that it would be but it isn't. Just so you know. :O)

There are a few twists in the book and the big reveal was a bit suspected, by me any ways. I am interested in knowing if James and Lord Berekley's story of how they rekindled their relationship as Father and Son will be mentioned more in-depth in the next book of the series.

Finally, James and Issy are able to take their first scene together and then the book ends leaving us with another wonderful cliff hanger.

The book itself is holding true as it has for the previous books in the series by standing in time with each other, not skipping around at all, and flowing well. It's a quick and easy read and before you know it, it's over.

The sex scenes are tamer than what I've read elsewhere and there isn't any cursing, so if you're looking for a good book like FSOG with tame but sexy scenes and no profanity, then this series is for you, in my opinion.
Profile Image for Emma.
97 reviews
June 2, 2020
The Director's Cut by J.S. Taylor, is the third instalment in the 'Spotlight Series' and oh lord, I think this is the best one yet! Someone draw me a cold bath as I don't think I can feel my face anymore.

I read this one so quick, I couldn't put it down! The who leak scandal was such a page turner and had you guessing every page on who it may be, and seeing as it's part of the crew there was no shortage on guessing. Though towards the end, I was still pleasantly shocked.

The scenes, oh wow, don't get me started on them. They we're more romantic, yet much more erotic at the same time, in fact you could probably say that I may have blushed at one point - and I'm no prude! But yes, what a whirlwind of emotions.

I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to start on the fourth and final book in the series.
Profile Image for Leanne Gillings.
242 reviews3 followers
May 20, 2013
I loved this follow on book! I so wanted James to be the lead :) and I loved that they stayed together through everything, press leak and all!
I read this within a day I couldn't wait to get my hands on it! James just gives me goosebumps, I think I have it bad ;) I am excited to see James reveal a bit more of his past in the last book as sometimes he can still be a bit of a question mark and I want them to be able to be together in the open! I loved how he has softened towards Issy saying the most loveliest things, that's wen I like him the best :) so i am hoping the last installment will be more romance and more past explanation! Also I want to know if the film they are making is Oscar winning............ Which I'm sure it will be ;) xxxxx roll on August! X
Profile Image for Maria.
81 reviews
July 6, 2013
OMG. I really, really try to love this book, but the plot is SO WEAK. I spend the whole book reading about the same thing over and over. This author try to made it more interesting and with more depth with Isabella's secret and sadness but is such a weak attempt. This is the third book and we still don't know what happend with James while he was a drug addict or what happend to the girlfriend that died of an overdose. I think this author has dragged this story soooo much just to realese a fourth book. I hope that we finally get to find out about James on the next book. Although I didn't loved this book I will read the next one just because I can't start a book or a series and not finish it. I really hope that the next book is the final one and that it gets better than this one.
Profile Image for  Spanxmcb (Yovanka)  .
337 reviews
June 20, 2014
Much as the previous books, there's plenty of manufactured drama. The problem is nothing seems truly perilous or damaging so the 'drama' is kinda hard to take seriously. And considering how fast everything seems to move in Isabella and James's relationship, this is the slowest moving film set one could imagine.

Ultimately, much like the "darker" elements that get alluded to, this story only plays at drama as well. I feel like the author had the opportunity to focus on the novelty of working on a film set through Isabella's eyes - it would have been more interesting than the contrived conflict.

It's all very silly in a light entertaining package. On to book 4....

Profile Image for Ava.
1,028 reviews23 followers
June 17, 2013
4 up to 4.5 stars
After the lipstick stalker here comes the press leaking. what was good in this book that we all have suspicion about the leaker but it kept being dismissed one after another one until the end. beside that even this book was on Issy Pov but it was through her that I see James opened up. james sensitivity, love and romance. his love was so big.
I just can help myself wanting fast forward time to August for the final cut. Because i want to read them together. acting/direct/lover....good combination?
Profile Image for Dawn  Johnson.
48 reviews3 followers
May 18, 2013
The continuing saga of James & Izzy & WOW what a great story. I forget that these are not real people which if you are reading a great Author then it is easy to do. I was hooked from the first book Close Up & now have to follow with these 2 in order to see what continues to happen. As unbelievable as this romance is it is still easy to fall in love with James & Izzy. To have that kind of Love Oh if only. There were a few misspelled words but it does not distract from the story of a Man who loves a woman so much & the trials they must go thru. I recommend this series & await the next book.
Profile Image for Tonya Vorisek.
200 reviews
June 3, 2013
A little frustrated that this wasn't the final book in the series since I waited to read the three books all at once...now I have to wait until August to finish the story. It's been a good story but NOT similar to "Bared to You" or Fifty Shades'". This story lacks the true angst and depth of characters. Yes, they are similar in the Dom/sub roles but comparing "Bared" and "Fifty" as a nine out of ten then this is three. It's been a good read but not great. However, I will invest the time and money to finish the story...so see ya in August.
Profile Image for Jocelyn Sanchez.
672 reviews56 followers
October 1, 2014
I'm a fan of series that has a lot of books in them, so I'm glad I found this series! I read all these books in about three days because I couldn't get the characters out of my head. They're so engrossing and interesting. Not to mention I love the plots of all the books.

Although this book isn't my favorite out of the series, I will say that I enjoyed it all the same. I still felt a connection with the characters and, to me, there's never a dull moment in this book. The book has great twists and I look forward to reading more from this author.

I recommend this book to everyone!
Profile Image for Indy.
1,199 reviews34 followers
May 22, 2013
Really enjoyed this third novel. Was nice to see the intimacy of James and Issy come to the forefront as the start of filming began. I still think that there are maybe too many plot lines - Ben Gracey/Lipstick Stalker/Press leaks/James history/Issy's struggle with grief, etc. Dilutes the impact a bit when reader has to constantly reassess which issue is at play. But writing is strong and chemistry too, so was very much a page turner for me. Look forward to it's conclusion.
Profile Image for Rashida .
64 reviews6 followers
June 25, 2013
Cute. I felt just another reason to continue the series. The story could've been wrapped up here. But it still drags on. Again, it's still a quick read. Not boring. But I had to do a quick check of the last couple books to recall what's mentioned in this book. The author didn't do a quick reminder of things mentioned in past books. Regardless, you get through all that, the book is readable and cute. Nothing that'll make me swoon.
Profile Image for Kathy.
211 reviews2 followers
June 25, 2013
Cliffhangers are the bain of my existence! I had no idea when I started this series with a free book, that it would force me to purchase 2 more books and still not be done with the series.

I love James and Izzy, but right now I could choke the author who has strung us along with 4 books in a series that could have been done in 1 or 2 books. Now I have to wait til August for book 4. The 3 stars is for the above reason!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.