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The Photographers Trilogy
Camera Shy
Heartbroken after her almost-engagement was called off, Jess goes on a mini-break to Paris seeking closure and meets a hot French stranger called Gabriel. As sparks fly, Jess, fearing she was dumped because she was boring, vows to be more spontaneous, and she and Gabriel have mind-blowing, earth-shattering sex.
With his troubled past and soulful eyes, Jess quickly realises there’s more to Gabriel than a great shag and, when he whisks her away to his fixer-upper chateau in the country, Jess thinks she might be falling for him–-even though they’ve only known each other a few days.
But is this what she wants? She was all for taking risks, but risking her heart so soon was not in the cards, especially when Gabriel's troubled past arrives in the present.
Can they both heal their emotional wounds and let love back into their lives before it's too late?
With his troubled past and soulful eyes, Jess quickly realises there’s more to Gabriel than a great shag and, when he whisks her away to his fixer-upper chateau in the country, Jess thinks she might be falling for him–-even though they’ve only known each other a few days.
But is this what she wants? She was all for taking risks, but risking her heart so soon was not in the cards, especially when Gabriel's troubled past arrives in the present.
Can they both heal their emotional wounds and let love back into their lives before it's too late?
- GenresRomance
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2024
26 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Julia Boggio
7 books53 followersJulia Boggio is a multi-award-winning photographer turned multi-award-winning romance writer. She writes romantic comedies set in the world of professional photography. Her debut book, SHOOTERS, won the Selfie Awards at London Book Fair (2024) as well as gold at the Wishing Shelf Awards. CAMERA SHY won the Shorter Romantic Novel prize at the RNA awards (2025) and her other two books, CHASING THE LIGHT and EXPOSURE!, were shortlisted for Romcom of the Year in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Julia also became an original YouTube star when her Dirty Dancing-inspired first dance sparked a worldwide trend in choreographed first dances. She’s appeared on BBC Woman’s Hour, Richard & Judy, Sky, ITV and BBC news—and The Oprah Winfrey Show where she famously danced with Patrick Swayze. In fact, Julia wrote the Dirty Dancing Mad Libs for Penguin, which is coming out in August 2025. She is originally from New Jersey, but now lives in Wimbledon, UK, with her husband, two kids, and passive-aggressive cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 30, 2024
Omg what a cute and adorably sweet holiday romance!! Is there anything better than a romance set in Paris with a guy like the one I got to meet in this story? The answer is no because freaking GABRIEL IS AMAZING.
I cannot express how much I enjoyed the character arc Jess had and the emphasis on finding yourself, coping with grief, and dealing with emotions both the protagonists showcased. It was something I could relate to and an aspect that just made me fall in love with both Jess and Gabriel further!
I got this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review, and I definitely think that I was the super lucky reader who got to dive into such a fabulous love story.
I cannot express how much I enjoyed the character arc Jess had and the emphasis on finding yourself, coping with grief, and dealing with emotions both the protagonists showcased. It was something I could relate to and an aspect that just made me fall in love with both Jess and Gabriel further!
I got this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review, and I definitely think that I was the super lucky reader who got to dive into such a fabulous love story.
December 13, 2023
Thank you Julia for the ARC of Camera Shy!
I thoroughly enjoyed this - and despite sharing a name with the female lead, this Jess and I have precisely nothing in common, so honestly I *should* have hated her. She’s hot, for a start, and nice to children, and sweet, and she likes to… excuse me a moment… run?! For… fun?! Gross.
Anyway, she was basically impossible not to like, especially because after being unceremoniously dumped in the last of the Photographers’ books, she took the bull by the horns and went to Paris by herself. And got hammered on delicious, delicious red wine. Good girl.
I enjoyed the way her relationship with Gabriel warmed up - and in classic Julia Boggio fashion, there’s some darkness in his story to temper Jess’s sweetness. It’s so satisfying to see two genuinely good, but hurt, people come together.
Big fan of Gabriel’s sister Elodie, as well, and her forthright nature invites levity into the story as well.
Really great stuff, I demolished this!
I thoroughly enjoyed this - and despite sharing a name with the female lead, this Jess and I have precisely nothing in common, so honestly I *should* have hated her. She’s hot, for a start, and nice to children, and sweet, and she likes to… excuse me a moment… run?! For… fun?! Gross.
Anyway, she was basically impossible not to like, especially because after being unceremoniously dumped in the last of the Photographers’ books, she took the bull by the horns and went to Paris by herself. And got hammered on delicious, delicious red wine. Good girl.
I enjoyed the way her relationship with Gabriel warmed up - and in classic Julia Boggio fashion, there’s some darkness in his story to temper Jess’s sweetness. It’s so satisfying to see two genuinely good, but hurt, people come together.
Big fan of Gabriel’s sister Elodie, as well, and her forthright nature invites levity into the story as well.
Really great stuff, I demolished this!
January 26, 2024
I really loved this! I read it in one sitting and didn't move until I'd finished it.
Not surprising as the way Julia writes always grabs me; from reading Shooters almost a year ago she has become a must-read author for me.
There's nothing about this novel that I didn't like.. apart from my own personal vendetta against Paris. I loved the characters, especially Elodie, and the dialogue was fun. It flowed perfectly and felt very satisfying the way it was structured and executed.
Prepare to laugh and cry!
Thank you so much to Julia for the ARC!
Not surprising as the way Julia writes always grabs me; from reading Shooters almost a year ago she has become a must-read author for me.
There's nothing about this novel that I didn't like.. apart from my own personal vendetta against Paris. I loved the characters, especially Elodie, and the dialogue was fun. It flowed perfectly and felt very satisfying the way it was structured and executed.
Prepare to laugh and cry!
Thank you so much to Julia for the ARC!
January 9, 2024
Last year, I read Shooters by Julia, which I fell in love with, and now she has done it again! This is a standalone novel, an offshoot of the original trilogy, and I loved everything about it!
This is such a fun romance with a proper mix of scenes that will make you giggle and scenes that will make you tear up. The vibes are similar to Emily in Paris but better! The writing style is highly addictive, I didn't want to put the book down at all! I loved how the heavy topics were handled -- PTSD, the life of an amputee, feeling stuck in life and exploring your own needs and wishes, learning to liberate your emotions and many more! Jess is an incredibly lovable character and I loved watching her bloom on her own, as well as let loose with Gabriel. Their romance was the perfect combination of sweet and spicy!
I highly recommend this one if you want a well written romance to brighten your days!
A huge thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
This is such a fun romance with a proper mix of scenes that will make you giggle and scenes that will make you tear up. The vibes are similar to Emily in Paris but better! The writing style is highly addictive, I didn't want to put the book down at all! I loved how the heavy topics were handled -- PTSD, the life of an amputee, feeling stuck in life and exploring your own needs and wishes, learning to liberate your emotions and many more! Jess is an incredibly lovable character and I loved watching her bloom on her own, as well as let loose with Gabriel. Their romance was the perfect combination of sweet and spicy!
I highly recommend this one if you want a well written romance to brighten your days!
A huge thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
January 19, 2024
All the feels!
Another book by Julia Boggio that I simply couldn’t put down! We first meet Jess, the main character, in one of Boggio’s previous titles Chasing the Light. There she is portrayed as a likeable character who is left heartbroken by events outside her control. Camera Shy picks up the story of heartbroken Jess as she tries to fathom out what has and will happen with her life. I fell in love with Jess’s honest and endearing nature and enjoyed following her journey.
Jess’s character is fairly open and relatable whereas Gabriel, the male protagonist in this adventure, is initially impenetrable. However, we soon learn that Gabriel has good reason to keep people at arm’s length. Boggio gradually reveals the extent of Gabriel’s trauma and, as ever, she deals with difficult subjects sensitively. I felt that I went on an emotional journey with both Jess and Gabriel, laugh out loud one moment and tears the next!
I completely recommend this book to anyone looking for their next read (unless you dislike sex or romance!).
Another book by Julia Boggio that I simply couldn’t put down! We first meet Jess, the main character, in one of Boggio’s previous titles Chasing the Light. There she is portrayed as a likeable character who is left heartbroken by events outside her control. Camera Shy picks up the story of heartbroken Jess as she tries to fathom out what has and will happen with her life. I fell in love with Jess’s honest and endearing nature and enjoyed following her journey.
Jess’s character is fairly open and relatable whereas Gabriel, the male protagonist in this adventure, is initially impenetrable. However, we soon learn that Gabriel has good reason to keep people at arm’s length. Boggio gradually reveals the extent of Gabriel’s trauma and, as ever, she deals with difficult subjects sensitively. I felt that I went on an emotional journey with both Jess and Gabriel, laugh out loud one moment and tears the next!
I completely recommend this book to anyone looking for their next read (unless you dislike sex or romance!).
January 22, 2024
Camera Shy by Julia Boggio was just the kind of romance story I was looking for! I was rooting for Jess and Gabriel the entire time! There were so many unique aspects of their story and it felt like I was going on this adventure with them.
If you're looking for a sweet romance with fun activities and disability rep, look no further! This book made me want to be more adventurous in my own life. 😆
I'm looking forward to reading more from Julia Boggio!
If you're looking for a sweet romance with fun activities and disability rep, look no further! This book made me want to be more adventurous in my own life. 😆
I'm looking forward to reading more from Julia Boggio!
January 13, 2024
If I had to choose one word to describe this book, then that would be "cliche." This story is your perfect "cliche" romance novel.
With this book, you not only get to experience paris and photography, but you also get to experience a love that comes unexpectedly, but it also sweeps you off your feet.
I had to give it Julia to writing a grumpy guy novel whose deep down a squeeshy-marshmallow guy, that deserves all the hugs and kisses. I mean, we understand he's grumpy, but under that hardcore persona, he's one big softie who's just waiting on his Jess.
Gabriel may have won a softie book boyfriend title, but I also had to acknowledge the fact that what an inspiration Jess was to me ( pun intended). She not only went to Paris alone, but throughtout the book she ended up pushing herself to new experiences and isn't that what whole life is about - pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, so that you don't miss on living.
Jess took her chance and, in the end, gained the confidence to choose herself.
I actually ended up finishing this book in just 2 days.
"A planking minute - that is, length of time that passed while one is holding a plank position-always seemed to last forever, whereas a reading-a-good-book minute always flew by too fast."
Isn't that true??!
I'm so glad that I got to be an ARC reader for this book.
With this book, you not only get to experience paris and photography, but you also get to experience a love that comes unexpectedly, but it also sweeps you off your feet.
I had to give it Julia to writing a grumpy guy novel whose deep down a squeeshy-marshmallow guy, that deserves all the hugs and kisses. I mean, we understand he's grumpy, but under that hardcore persona, he's one big softie who's just waiting on his Jess.
Gabriel may have won a softie book boyfriend title, but I also had to acknowledge the fact that what an inspiration Jess was to me ( pun intended). She not only went to Paris alone, but throughtout the book she ended up pushing herself to new experiences and isn't that what whole life is about - pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, so that you don't miss on living.
Jess took her chance and, in the end, gained the confidence to choose herself.
I actually ended up finishing this book in just 2 days.
"A planking minute - that is, length of time that passed while one is holding a plank position-always seemed to last forever, whereas a reading-a-good-book minute always flew by too fast."
Isn't that true??!
I'm so glad that I got to be an ARC reader for this book.
December 31, 2023
If you haven't yet read 'Chasing the Light', this review might spoilt it for you!
In 'Chasing the Light' Jess is annoyingly perfect but here we see her vulnerable side and we're rooting for her from the start. Brought up by loving but dull parents, she's scared of taking risks. But now, with nothing to lose, we see her spending a week in Paris - alone! - something she'd never had done before.
When she meets a man with a heart-rending backstory of his own and plenty to teach her about love and life, sex is never going to be uncomplicated with no strings attached. Champagne, chateaus and helicopter rides over Versailles all feature as you'd hope from a romance set in La Belle France. And we also get a few peeks at Jess's new Oh Paulina! lingerie - a running theme in Julia's books!
Camera Shy has got plenty of steamy sex as we'd expect from Julia, but it's tasteful and contextual, not gratuitous or icky, although I'll never hear Beethoven six in quite the same way again...
Camera Shy really drew me into its world and I struggled to turn out the light and put it away to finish the next day! It's not too long - more of a novella than a full novel, but none the worse for it - and, if you had a rainy afternoon, you could easily finish it in one self-indulgent sitting. Perfect if you've promised yourself more me-time in the new year.
In 'Chasing the Light' Jess is annoyingly perfect but here we see her vulnerable side and we're rooting for her from the start. Brought up by loving but dull parents, she's scared of taking risks. But now, with nothing to lose, we see her spending a week in Paris - alone! - something she'd never had done before.
When she meets a man with a heart-rending backstory of his own and plenty to teach her about love and life, sex is never going to be uncomplicated with no strings attached. Champagne, chateaus and helicopter rides over Versailles all feature as you'd hope from a romance set in La Belle France. And we also get a few peeks at Jess's new Oh Paulina! lingerie - a running theme in Julia's books!
Camera Shy has got plenty of steamy sex as we'd expect from Julia, but it's tasteful and contextual, not gratuitous or icky, although I'll never hear Beethoven six in quite the same way again...
Camera Shy really drew me into its world and I struggled to turn out the light and put it away to finish the next day! It's not too long - more of a novella than a full novel, but none the worse for it - and, if you had a rainy afternoon, you could easily finish it in one self-indulgent sitting. Perfect if you've promised yourself more me-time in the new year.
January 30, 2024
As a fan of Julia Boggio's first two novels (both part of her Photographers Trilogy), I was thrilled to get hold of an ARC copy of Camera Shy. This novella follows the adventures of a character from the second book, Chasing the Light, and is told with Boggio's usual, wonderful mix of wry humour and sensitivity. It's also her spiciest tale yet with sweet but jilted English girl Jess deciding to undertake her own personal 'Yes Jess' science project with grumpy but sexy aerial photographer, Gabriel. These two sizzle between the sheets and on every page. What begins as a happy-go-lucky fling in romantic Paris evolves into something much more, as Jess's 'science project' challenges Gabriel to face his own issues from his troubled past. If you love an uplifting tale of self-discovery and daring to live again, then this book is for you. I loved it!
December 18, 2023
If you enjoy a romance set in Paris, with a relatable heroine stepping out of her comfort zone after a break up, read ‘Camera Shy.’ It’s a novella featuring Jess, a character from ‘Chasing the Light,’ but the story can be read as a stand alone.
It was such a treat to read this. Jess is in Paris, determined to put herself back together whilst soaking up the city’s sights. Her ex has moved on to someone more adventurous, and Jess fears that he found her boring. So, she’s decided to push herself to try things she’s never done, and if it goes wrong? What happens in Paris can stay in Paris.
Everything changes when she meets Gabriel. He’s taciturn and guarded, everything she’s not, but the chemistry between them keeps drawing them together…
This book has a grumpy-sunshine pairing, moments of humour, and emotional depth as Jess and Gabriel start to wonder if their lusty fling could turn out to be life changing.
I was lucky to read an ARC, in exchange for an honest review. This book made me smile and cheer Jess on. Gabriel’s painful past was handled sensitively, and it was wonderful to see Jess’s sunshine reaching his frozen heart. This is a book about coming alive again. It’s fun and vibrant, and delivers that Romance genre warm happy glow. I loved reading it.
It was such a treat to read this. Jess is in Paris, determined to put herself back together whilst soaking up the city’s sights. Her ex has moved on to someone more adventurous, and Jess fears that he found her boring. So, she’s decided to push herself to try things she’s never done, and if it goes wrong? What happens in Paris can stay in Paris.
Everything changes when she meets Gabriel. He’s taciturn and guarded, everything she’s not, but the chemistry between them keeps drawing them together…
This book has a grumpy-sunshine pairing, moments of humour, and emotional depth as Jess and Gabriel start to wonder if their lusty fling could turn out to be life changing.
I was lucky to read an ARC, in exchange for an honest review. This book made me smile and cheer Jess on. Gabriel’s painful past was handled sensitively, and it was wonderful to see Jess’s sunshine reaching his frozen heart. This is a book about coming alive again. It’s fun and vibrant, and delivers that Romance genre warm happy glow. I loved reading it.
December 17, 2023
You can see Julia Boggio has done a lot of research on Paris and French people in general: the details are so accurate and brought memories back to my time in the French capital.
The characters are very well crafted and their love story feels magical but genuine.
I’ve read all the books in the Photographers series and I love them all. Read this book today.
The characters are very well crafted and their love story feels magical but genuine.
I’ve read all the books in the Photographers series and I love them all. Read this book today.
January 30, 2024
Thank you to the author for gifting me an advanced copy of Camera Shy, all thoughts are my own.
We briefly met Jess in the second of Julia's Photographers Trilogy, Chasing the Light (Krish & Francesca's story) & I'll be honest I was a little worried about reading Jess's story as I loved Krish who is Jess's ex and was afraid I would struggle to warm to Jess or my view of Krish would change. But I shouldn't have worried and despite still loving Krish I absolutely adored Jess and without a doubt Jess & Gabriel's story is now my favourite.
Camera Shy starts with an absolute hilarious bang, Gabriel watching a very drunk Jess crying about her ex and the life that should have been, Gabriel swears he's not getting involved with Jess any further than the gentlemanly act of getting her home safe but of course life has other plans, what follows is a very sweet romance sprinkled with equally funny/lighthearted & emotional sad scenes. I found myself cheering Jess on through her new 'spontaneous' era, trying new things & saying yes more and by the end it didn't feel like she changed but more so that she finally embraced & let the true her out.
From early on it's clear that Gabriel has a troubled past & seeing him breakdown his walls & let Jess into his painful past is heartwarming & once again Julia did a fantastic job of representing both hidden disabilities (PTSD) & physical disabilities (amputee) & you can really tell that alot of research was put into both.
Of course it wouldn't be a Julia Boggio without photography being in there somewhere & I really enjoyed learning about Gabriel's current Aerial Photography & former War Photography career, a very different look into the world of photography.
Finally a moment of appreciation for Gabriel's sister Elodie, she's hilarious, holds nothing back and is honestly the best cheerleader anyone could want in their corner, I feel like we need a little Elodie Novella or something, I need more!!
All in all a beautiful story that's the perfect mix of sweet & spicy.
We briefly met Jess in the second of Julia's Photographers Trilogy, Chasing the Light (Krish & Francesca's story) & I'll be honest I was a little worried about reading Jess's story as I loved Krish who is Jess's ex and was afraid I would struggle to warm to Jess or my view of Krish would change. But I shouldn't have worried and despite still loving Krish I absolutely adored Jess and without a doubt Jess & Gabriel's story is now my favourite.
Camera Shy starts with an absolute hilarious bang, Gabriel watching a very drunk Jess crying about her ex and the life that should have been, Gabriel swears he's not getting involved with Jess any further than the gentlemanly act of getting her home safe but of course life has other plans, what follows is a very sweet romance sprinkled with equally funny/lighthearted & emotional sad scenes. I found myself cheering Jess on through her new 'spontaneous' era, trying new things & saying yes more and by the end it didn't feel like she changed but more so that she finally embraced & let the true her out.
From early on it's clear that Gabriel has a troubled past & seeing him breakdown his walls & let Jess into his painful past is heartwarming & once again Julia did a fantastic job of representing both hidden disabilities (PTSD) & physical disabilities (amputee) & you can really tell that alot of research was put into both.
Of course it wouldn't be a Julia Boggio without photography being in there somewhere & I really enjoyed learning about Gabriel's current Aerial Photography & former War Photography career, a very different look into the world of photography.
Finally a moment of appreciation for Gabriel's sister Elodie, she's hilarious, holds nothing back and is honestly the best cheerleader anyone could want in their corner, I feel like we need a little Elodie Novella or something, I need more!!
All in all a beautiful story that's the perfect mix of sweet & spicy.
August 24, 2024
I thought this was going to be a cute fluffy romcom but it ended up being so much more interesting and in-depth because of the backstory of Gabriel (who btw I couldn't help picturing as the chef from Emily in Paris tv series 🔥). The French setting, the sizzling romance between Jess and Gabriel, the cool adventure sports, PLUS a heartwarming HEA, all combined to make this a thoroughly enjoyable read! 😍
February 5, 2024
Holy smokes that was so fun! Jess's inner monologue had me cackling the entire time. And Gabriel. Stop it. 🥹
February 5, 2024
A must read for 2024, I absolutely love Jess and Gabriel's story. Julia is a story teller like no other, her approach to love stories with partners who have a variety of abilities is amazing. She makes some topics that are hard to talk about approachable and you want to discuss them further. The growth of both characters through the development of the story was beautiful. You really understood their motivations, each time Jess does something new and the reasons why, you feel the reasons develop as more than her ex triggering her. Gabriels story was amazing, his passion came through, the annual get togethers.
I have read this twice already and find new things to love each time.
I have read this twice already and find new things to love each time.
January 31, 2024
I loved this so much! The flair of a great rom-com scattered with believable and honest moments of real life. I also really loved that it's not just an easy 'happy ever after' without effort and that our leading lady doesn't shirk her strength at the end, but stands in it to find her bliss.
Also yes, I found the Dirty Dancing reference and I loved it.
Also yes, I found the Dirty Dancing reference and I loved it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2024
such a great story!
Love this story, not only because it speaks about photographers and to photographers, but because it also envelopes the raw emotions of being human and doubting oneself, especially after devastating challenges. Bravo! And a great love story too!
Love this story, not only because it speaks about photographers and to photographers, but because it also envelopes the raw emotions of being human and doubting oneself, especially after devastating challenges. Bravo! And a great love story too!
January 26, 2024
This is the second book of Julia’s that I have read, the first being Shooters.
I love Julia’s writing style and enjoyed this easy to read romance. It was reminiscent of Mills and Boon books I used to read but MUCH better.
Jess and Gabriel are enjoyable main characters that both had interesting stories to tell.
Once I had started to read I wanted to know more about each of the characters and how the story going to play out.
A good holiday read.
Thank you for accepting me as an ARC.
I love Julia’s writing style and enjoyed this easy to read romance. It was reminiscent of Mills and Boon books I used to read but MUCH better.
Jess and Gabriel are enjoyable main characters that both had interesting stories to tell.
Once I had started to read I wanted to know more about each of the characters and how the story going to play out.
A good holiday read.
Thank you for accepting me as an ARC.
January 19, 2024
Wow, what a journey!! The chemistry between Gabriel and Jess was sooo good. This was a page turner for me, I loved every moment of the broody, stoic Gabriel and Jess with her sunshine personality. Such a great story about growth, love and belonging. I throughly enjoyed this book!! If you’re looking for your next great romance book, you have found it 🤩❤️🔥📸🩷💜
December 29, 2023
Julia Boggio’s best yet! I couldnt put it down. The story is a romance set in the background of Paris with interesting and likeable characters, especially Gabriel who has experienced too much as a war photographer And now i want to go back to visit Paris again.
March 4, 2024
Do not read this novella... Unless you set aside a day to binge it! Another fabulous page-turner from Julia. Well-rounded relatable characters and ever-present scintillating sexual encounters are carefully woven into the journey of Jess and Gabriel.
This story has all the feels and takes you on a ride (pun intended) you may not have expected for Jess after reading Chasing the Light! I never warmed to Jess' character but after reading Camera Shy, Jess and Gabriel have become my new favourites! Small nods to the first two novels in the Photographer's Trilogy were fun, and it wouldn't be a Julia story without a reference to Dirty Dancing!
Nice one Julia, you are an 'inspiration'... If you know, you know!
This story has all the feels and takes you on a ride (pun intended) you may not have expected for Jess after reading Chasing the Light! I never warmed to Jess' character but after reading Camera Shy, Jess and Gabriel have become my new favourites! Small nods to the first two novels in the Photographer's Trilogy were fun, and it wouldn't be a Julia story without a reference to Dirty Dancing!
Nice one Julia, you are an 'inspiration'... If you know, you know!
February 4, 2024
If you liked the show Emily in Paris, this book is for you!
As a French person, the clichés were a bit too much to me, but it didn’t take from the story.
I couldn’t stop falling for Gabriel. Behind his grumpy exterior, the way he deals with his ptsd broke my heart a little and I really liked the way he comes out of his shell for Jess, even if it takes him time (I really liked that it wasn’t insta change, it made him feel way more realistic).
As a French person, the clichés were a bit too much to me, but it didn’t take from the story.
I couldn’t stop falling for Gabriel. Behind his grumpy exterior, the way he deals with his ptsd broke my heart a little and I really liked the way he comes out of his shell for Jess, even if it takes him time (I really liked that it wasn’t insta change, it made him feel way more realistic).
March 8, 2024
Heartwarming & Inspirational
This story was a bit of a surprise but in a delightful way. Both main characters have to deal with overcoming different type of obstacles and it was truly touching how they came together and overcame them. Definitely something new that I’ve never come across and humbling when you learn about the MMC background. I would definitely recommend it with pleasure.
This story was a bit of a surprise but in a delightful way. Both main characters have to deal with overcoming different type of obstacles and it was truly touching how they came together and overcame them. Definitely something new that I’ve never come across and humbling when you learn about the MMC background. I would definitely recommend it with pleasure.
January 10, 2024
Thank you Julia Boggio for providing me with an ARC in return for my honest review.
THIS WAS SO CUTE.
I'm giving this 4.5 stars.
This novella is a spin off from "The Photographers Trilogy" and while we don't get cameos from our mains from the first two books - I would not say this is a standalone read. Read Shooters and Chasing the Light before you read this one (and honestly they are really good reads - it's a fun and smart series).
Ok. In "Chasing the Light" our main man, Krish is dating Jess and plans a long weekend in Paris with the goal of proposing. Only... instead he dumps her for his former flame, Francesca.
So rather than stay in London, Jess jumps on the Eurostar to Paris and extends her weekend into a week; and on her first night she meets Gabriel. A very attractive Frenchman, who happens to also live in the same building she's staying in. Sparks fly.
I will admit - the first three chapters of the book reminded me "Emily in Paris" - Jess was ... intoxicated and a little silly.
BUT then we hit her and Gabriel getting to know one another and I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN.
Jess goes from being a girl who follows the rules, doesn't challenge the status quo or take chances - to throwing all of that out the window and jumps at the chance to try new things. It doesn't hurt that Gabriel is standing next to her when she steps out of her comfort zone.
This is 100% a romance. However, this romance between Gabriel and Jess couldn't happen without Jess' personal growth. She goes from being a side character in "Chasing the Light" to stepping into a main character role - and owning it. She grew and came into her own.
*Dual POV
*Grumpy / Sunshine
*Age Gap
*PTSD Rep
*Takes place in Paris
This was a perfect beach read. This series keeps getting better - it goes from strength to strength - and I am so happy that we got to know Jess better. And thank goodness we met Gabriel. Honestly. His story and their HEA made me giddy (I want that second epilogue already!).
Loved this. Totally, 100% recommend.
THIS WAS SO CUTE.
I'm giving this 4.5 stars.
This novella is a spin off from "The Photographers Trilogy" and while we don't get cameos from our mains from the first two books - I would not say this is a standalone read. Read Shooters and Chasing the Light before you read this one (and honestly they are really good reads - it's a fun and smart series).
Ok. In "Chasing the Light" our main man, Krish is dating Jess and plans a long weekend in Paris with the goal of proposing. Only... instead he dumps her for his former flame, Francesca.
So rather than stay in London, Jess jumps on the Eurostar to Paris and extends her weekend into a week; and on her first night she meets Gabriel. A very attractive Frenchman, who happens to also live in the same building she's staying in. Sparks fly.
I will admit - the first three chapters of the book reminded me "Emily in Paris" - Jess was ... intoxicated and a little silly.
BUT then we hit her and Gabriel getting to know one another and I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN.
Jess goes from being a girl who follows the rules, doesn't challenge the status quo or take chances - to throwing all of that out the window and jumps at the chance to try new things. It doesn't hurt that Gabriel is standing next to her when she steps out of her comfort zone.
This is 100% a romance. However, this romance between Gabriel and Jess couldn't happen without Jess' personal growth. She goes from being a side character in "Chasing the Light" to stepping into a main character role - and owning it. She grew and came into her own.
*Dual POV
*Grumpy / Sunshine
*Age Gap
*PTSD Rep
*Takes place in Paris
This was a perfect beach read. This series keeps getting better - it goes from strength to strength - and I am so happy that we got to know Jess better. And thank goodness we met Gabriel. Honestly. His story and their HEA made me giddy (I want that second epilogue already!).
Loved this. Totally, 100% recommend.
March 26, 2025
Romcom set in PARIS
Jess is in Paris to get engaged to Krish, but he calls the whole thing off and, of course, she is devasted. She cries her heart out in a bar and Gabriel, who happens to be there, ensures that this young woman, who has drunk herself silly, gets home ok.
As fate would have it, they meet again, and the sexual frisson is just too overwhelming to ignore. But Gabriel has both physical and emotional scars from his past. Can she break through his reinforced barriers? There is a lot of will, they won’t they, and hope springs eternal as he takes her out of Paris to his fixer-upper for a breath of fresh air in the country. She then returns home to Battersea but that is not the end of the story…..
There is a nice sense of Paris in this short, peppy romcom. Gorgeous Gabriel is like a dark-haired character from Emily in Paris and, he is also a Magnum photographer (kudos, only, and 100 photographers have become members since the founding in 1947!)
A nice, quick and uplifting read, although it perhaps ended abruptly, when I was perhaps expecting a few more pages.
Jess is in Paris to get engaged to Krish, but he calls the whole thing off and, of course, she is devasted. She cries her heart out in a bar and Gabriel, who happens to be there, ensures that this young woman, who has drunk herself silly, gets home ok.
As fate would have it, they meet again, and the sexual frisson is just too overwhelming to ignore. But Gabriel has both physical and emotional scars from his past. Can she break through his reinforced barriers? There is a lot of will, they won’t they, and hope springs eternal as he takes her out of Paris to his fixer-upper for a breath of fresh air in the country. She then returns home to Battersea but that is not the end of the story…..
There is a nice sense of Paris in this short, peppy romcom. Gorgeous Gabriel is like a dark-haired character from Emily in Paris and, he is also a Magnum photographer (kudos, only, and 100 photographers have become members since the founding in 1947!)
A nice, quick and uplifting read, although it perhaps ended abruptly, when I was perhaps expecting a few more pages.
January 18, 2024
Camera Shy is a love story between Jess and Gabriel who meet each other in a bistro. She gets herself drunk because of her relationship breakup, with her plans to get married the next day cancelled. Gabriel makes sure she gets back to her rental place safely, making it such an entertaining meet cute experience.
I love the location of the story. I mean, who doesn't love Paris? It is the perfect backdrop for this emotional rollercoaster of love, particularly with the pain of Gabriel's trauma in Afghanstan as a war photographer and Jess's broken heart.
Jess is a strong, independent woman who gets to know Gabriel, empathising with his trauma and giving him his life back by supporting him through his pain, and loving him.
I especially love the humour and exciting yet anxiety-provoking helicopter ride and other thrill-seeking adventures, liking Jess even more for conquering her fears. Her breakup teaches her to embrace new experiences and to live life for herself, and not anyone else. She shows courage when she has to make the hardest decision of her life.
Gabriel grows as a person too when he realises he has to make big changes in his life. My heart goes out to him because of what he's been through. Trauma is not something you could ever forget or put behind you so easily.
The story is entertaining, funny, sad, heart-breaking, and exciting. So well worth the read.
I love the location of the story. I mean, who doesn't love Paris? It is the perfect backdrop for this emotional rollercoaster of love, particularly with the pain of Gabriel's trauma in Afghanstan as a war photographer and Jess's broken heart.
Jess is a strong, independent woman who gets to know Gabriel, empathising with his trauma and giving him his life back by supporting him through his pain, and loving him.
I especially love the humour and exciting yet anxiety-provoking helicopter ride and other thrill-seeking adventures, liking Jess even more for conquering her fears. Her breakup teaches her to embrace new experiences and to live life for herself, and not anyone else. She shows courage when she has to make the hardest decision of her life.
Gabriel grows as a person too when he realises he has to make big changes in his life. My heart goes out to him because of what he's been through. Trauma is not something you could ever forget or put behind you so easily.
The story is entertaining, funny, sad, heart-breaking, and exciting. So well worth the read.
January 31, 2024
Fun, heart-warming, romantic and a little bit saucy!
I'm a huge Julia Boggio fan and Camera Shy may well be my favourite so far.
This is the story of what happened next for Jess, who we first met in Chasing The Light. Jess is a beautiful human being, but is full of doubt and insecurities. Primarily, she fears she's boring.
On a spontaneous trip to Paris (very un-Jess), she bumps into gorgeous but troubled Gabriel. In a bid to dump her boring persona, Jess wonders if a steamy encounter with Gabriel, who is very willing to help her come out of herself (in more ways than one!), could be the answer.
But can they hook up without letting their emotions or baggage get in the way?
Camera Shy is the perfect showcase of Julia's wit, warmth and wonderful romance writing. (With just the right amount of sizzle!) I couldn't put it down. Well done Julia!
I'm a huge Julia Boggio fan and Camera Shy may well be my favourite so far.
This is the story of what happened next for Jess, who we first met in Chasing The Light. Jess is a beautiful human being, but is full of doubt and insecurities. Primarily, she fears she's boring.
On a spontaneous trip to Paris (very un-Jess), she bumps into gorgeous but troubled Gabriel. In a bid to dump her boring persona, Jess wonders if a steamy encounter with Gabriel, who is very willing to help her come out of herself (in more ways than one!), could be the answer.
But can they hook up without letting their emotions or baggage get in the way?
Camera Shy is the perfect showcase of Julia's wit, warmth and wonderful romance writing. (With just the right amount of sizzle!) I couldn't put it down. Well done Julia!
December 13, 2023
I adored this story!! Thank you, Julia, for my advance reader copy.
We get introduced to Jess in the Photographer Trilogy, and it was so great for her to be a central character in this book.
Jess goes to the city of love- PARIS- to soothe her wounds after a major upheaval. There, she learns to be more spontaneous and braver.
We also meet the swoon-worthy, mysterious Gabriel, who meets Jess and sparks fly.
Without any spoilers- The reader is taken on a beautiful journey of self-discovery for both Jess and Gabriel. With some truly sweet and heartfelt moments, we also get a sweeping romance that Julia is so good at delivering.
Julia ticks all the right boxes and then some. A great writer to follow and read. I can’t wait for more books by this wonderful writer.
We get introduced to Jess in the Photographer Trilogy, and it was so great for her to be a central character in this book.
Jess goes to the city of love- PARIS- to soothe her wounds after a major upheaval. There, she learns to be more spontaneous and braver.
We also meet the swoon-worthy, mysterious Gabriel, who meets Jess and sparks fly.
Without any spoilers- The reader is taken on a beautiful journey of self-discovery for both Jess and Gabriel. With some truly sweet and heartfelt moments, we also get a sweeping romance that Julia is so good at delivering.
Julia ticks all the right boxes and then some. A great writer to follow and read. I can’t wait for more books by this wonderful writer.
February 2, 2024
I got Camera Shy as an ARC copy.
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I absolutely loved this book! I could see the whole thing in my mind like a movie. Throughout, I thought it would be an amazing romantic movie about heartbreak, trauma, holiday fling, and personal and emotional growth.
Camera Shy mentions going out of your comfort zone, war trauma, and disability and how we all have to fight and keep going until we find something that makes us happy.
It isn't an easy road, and sometimes it's easier to walk away than to face your fears.
I absolutely loved this story and can't recommend it highly enough.
I felt their heartbreak in the roots of my own heart 💔
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I absolutely loved this book! I could see the whole thing in my mind like a movie. Throughout, I thought it would be an amazing romantic movie about heartbreak, trauma, holiday fling, and personal and emotional growth.
Camera Shy mentions going out of your comfort zone, war trauma, and disability and how we all have to fight and keep going until we find something that makes us happy.
It isn't an easy road, and sometimes it's easier to walk away than to face your fears.
I absolutely loved this story and can't recommend it highly enough.
I felt their heartbreak in the roots of my own heart 💔
December 18, 2023
Jess is unintentionally living the dream. She's a Brit who goes to Paris to sulk after getting dumped but instead meets a hot French stranger, Gabriel, with whom she slides right into a delicious love affair. These two characters both have gorgeous shades of light and darkness to them, just like the photographs Gabriel takes. It's a quick and enchanting read for anyone who loves Paris and realistic characters who are working to come to grips with the crap life often throws at you while keeping their hearts open to something (and someone!) unexpected.
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