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Series #2
What Happens on Location
Helen Cho, film producer and CEO of a new production company, knows that achieving her career dreams means making hard decisions. With her latest feature film in crisis, she needs a new director immediately. At the top of the very short list of replacements? The woman responsible for breaking up Helen’s marriage.
Nora Darmody’s dreams of a directing career have not panned out as she hoped. When the offer from up-and-coming Propolis Pictures falls into her lap, there’s no way she can say no, even if that means working with Helen Cho. Because the last time Nora checked, their friendship died the moment Nora moved out of her pool house.
Both their careers hang in the balance. If they’re going to work together, Helen has to ignore her angry feelings of betrayal, and Nora must dim the spotlight of attraction that glows whenever Helen reenters the frame. Can they let go of the past and trust each other again, or will old wounds and unspoken feelings derail them before the final cut?
Nora Darmody’s dreams of a directing career have not panned out as she hoped. When the offer from up-and-coming Propolis Pictures falls into her lap, there’s no way she can say no, even if that means working with Helen Cho. Because the last time Nora checked, their friendship died the moment Nora moved out of her pool house.
Both their careers hang in the balance. If they’re going to work together, Helen has to ignore her angry feelings of betrayal, and Nora must dim the spotlight of attraction that glows whenever Helen reenters the frame. Can they let go of the past and trust each other again, or will old wounds and unspoken feelings derail them before the final cut?
264 pages, Paperback
Published October 21, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 18, 2025
I just love misunderstandings; I savored each moment until the truth is revealed. The relationship building was so sweet, with one of the best "one bed" tropes I have read. Nora's character was just totally lovable, from head to toe; she is warm, kind, and honest, never hiding thoughts. Helen is a bit more complicated after a failed marriage; she walks around with a shield I was a bit frustrated with Helen degrading herself and choosing "protection" for Nora from herself. There is no big drama, just a good old fear. We can feel Campbell has made a lot of research for the book about movie making. It was perfectly dosed: enough for it to feel immersive, but simple enough to not drown the reader with unwanted details. This was another well-balanced and sweet romance by Campbell. She is an auto-read for me.
June 15, 2026
I’m a little disappointed because I really liked the two main characters, Helen and Nora, and they were just so likable. I was also intrigued by the fact that Helen hires Nora as a director, knowing that Nora had slept with her ex-wife.
But it soon became clear that the romance wasn’t really the focus—it was more about making a movie. After a while, I was really frustrated because I just wanted more scenes with just the two of them, without all the stuff about movies or money problems. The two definitely had chemistry, but unfortunately, not much time was devoted to it.
The narrator was okay. She had a pleasant voice, though I felt the emotions were a bit lacking. At times, it felt like she was just reading from a script.
All in all, a book that had a lot of potential to be a great love story. At some point, I lost interest because I just wasn’t that into the movie business.
But it soon became clear that the romance wasn’t really the focus—it was more about making a movie. After a while, I was really frustrated because I just wanted more scenes with just the two of them, without all the stuff about movies or money problems. The two definitely had chemistry, but unfortunately, not much time was devoted to it.
The narrator was okay. She had a pleasant voice, though I felt the emotions were a bit lacking. At times, it felt like she was just reading from a script.
All in all, a book that had a lot of potential to be a great love story. At some point, I lost interest because I just wasn’t that into the movie business.
October 1, 2025
This is a story about Helen Cho who is a CEO of a new film company. One of her partners is diagnosed with breast cancer and has to withdraw from her role as the director of the current film. Helen recruits a former acquaintance, Nora Daramondy, to be the new director. Helen is divorced from Monica who was a compulsive liar. During their marriage they lived in a big house with a pool house. Nora had lost her job and they invited her to stay in the pool house. During that time Nora and Helen had become friends. But during the divorce Monica lied and said that she was sleeping with Nora. So all these years later Helen hates Nora and blames her for ending her marriage. Meanwhile Nora has had a crush on Helen but never acted on it.
I liked Helen's strong character and problem solving skills. She was a good leader of her company and great in getting people to work together and finish the movie on time. Helen's relationship with her mom was fun and added to the story. Nora was my favorite character in this story. She was treated terribly by her old company, but rose above it and kept a positive attitude. Nora was also very good at her job. This book took us behind the scenes to see how movies are made. That was interesting and different than focusing on the actors. There were a lot of funny scenes between Helen and Nora in the book and they were handled in a fresh way. I think Nan Campbell writes in a realistic, believable way. I have enjoyed her other books and look forward to reading more of her work in the future,
Thanks to Net Galley and BSB for the chance to read and review this ARC.
I liked Helen's strong character and problem solving skills. She was a good leader of her company and great in getting people to work together and finish the movie on time. Helen's relationship with her mom was fun and added to the story. Nora was my favorite character in this story. She was treated terribly by her old company, but rose above it and kept a positive attitude. Nora was also very good at her job. This book took us behind the scenes to see how movies are made. That was interesting and different than focusing on the actors. There were a lot of funny scenes between Helen and Nora in the book and they were handled in a fresh way. I think Nan Campbell writes in a realistic, believable way. I have enjoyed her other books and look forward to reading more of her work in the future,
Thanks to Net Galley and BSB for the chance to read and review this ARC.
March 3, 2026
What Happens on Location was such a sweet, low-angst second-chance romance with one of the best 'one bed' tropes I’ve read in a while.
Helen, a tightly wound film producer trying to save her latest project, is forced to hire Nora - the director she once called friend and then shut out after her marriage imploded. Nora, meanwhile, is warm, open, and entirely loveable. I adored her. She’s kind without being naïve, talented without being arrogant, and emotionally honest in a way that makes it impossible not to root for her.
Helen is more complicated. Still bruised from her divorce, she hides behind professionalism and self-protection, often convincing herself she’s protecting Nora by keeping her distance. At times that frustration is very real - I absolutely wanted to shake her - but it also makes her feel human. When she does soften, it’s earned.
The film production setting is immersive without being overwhelming. You can tell Campbell did her research, but it never drowns the romance. The side characters, especially Helen’s perceptive mother and the wider industry cast, add warmth and texture.
There’s no huge dramatic explosion here - just fear, history, and two people slowly choosing vulnerability again. Cosy, romantic, and satisfying, with a genuinely earned HEA. Another well-balanced and quietly lovely romance from Campbell. I look forward to reading what she writes next.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Helen, a tightly wound film producer trying to save her latest project, is forced to hire Nora - the director she once called friend and then shut out after her marriage imploded. Nora, meanwhile, is warm, open, and entirely loveable. I adored her. She’s kind without being naïve, talented without being arrogant, and emotionally honest in a way that makes it impossible not to root for her.
Helen is more complicated. Still bruised from her divorce, she hides behind professionalism and self-protection, often convincing herself she’s protecting Nora by keeping her distance. At times that frustration is very real - I absolutely wanted to shake her - but it also makes her feel human. When she does soften, it’s earned.
The film production setting is immersive without being overwhelming. You can tell Campbell did her research, but it never drowns the romance. The side characters, especially Helen’s perceptive mother and the wider industry cast, add warmth and texture.
There’s no huge dramatic explosion here - just fear, history, and two people slowly choosing vulnerability again. Cosy, romantic, and satisfying, with a genuinely earned HEA. Another well-balanced and quietly lovely romance from Campbell. I look forward to reading what she writes next.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
To start this off, I want to say that I adored the book and for me it was even better than the first one!
I really loved the characters right from the start, having known about Helen as a side character from the first installment, I was soo excited to finally get to read her story and see how her life turned out to be. And color me impressed because the way this book was written and actually delivered on the emotional side of things was soo satisfying!!! Right from the start, I was intrigued by the initial dislike Helen felt for Nora. And how the author dealt with the issue of Nora having supposedly had an affair with Helen’s ex wife.
And let me tell you (without spoilers) Nan Campbell did a phenomenal work!!!
Besides that, I enjoyed the pace of the story and the way the story dealt with the film industry. I feel like I learned something new just by reading this piece of fiction.
However, and I’m being a bit nitpicky here, I would’ve wished for Chelsea and Fran from the first installment to be included more often. I really liked them and though this story was obviously not about them, I still would’ve liked to see more interaction between the characters. But as I said, that’s just me being a bit nitpicky.
Overall, this was a solid book, with wonderful writing, a great pace and amazing characters. I fully recommend!
To start this off, I want to say that I adored the book and for me it was even better than the first one!
I really loved the characters right from the start, having known about Helen as a side character from the first installment, I was soo excited to finally get to read her story and see how her life turned out to be. And color me impressed because the way this book was written and actually delivered on the emotional side of things was soo satisfying!!! Right from the start, I was intrigued by the initial dislike Helen felt for Nora. And how the author dealt with the issue of Nora having supposedly had an affair with Helen’s ex wife.
And let me tell you (without spoilers) Nan Campbell did a phenomenal work!!!
Besides that, I enjoyed the pace of the story and the way the story dealt with the film industry. I feel like I learned something new just by reading this piece of fiction.
However, and I’m being a bit nitpicky here, I would’ve wished for Chelsea and Fran from the first installment to be included more often. I really liked them and though this story was obviously not about them, I still would’ve liked to see more interaction between the characters. But as I said, that’s just me being a bit nitpicky.
Overall, this was a solid book, with wonderful writing, a great pace and amazing characters. I fully recommend!
October 10, 2025
I've been looking forward to reading this book so much. I reread Like They Do in the Movies so I could refresh my memory on Helen - and also visit with Chelsea and Fran for a bit. Then I dove in. And read it in a single day. (Thanks to NetGalley's "read aloud" function)
So what did I love about this book? Pretty much every damn thing. Helen's rage and fear and confusion. Nora's determination and undying attraction to so many things about Helen. And the story, itself. One of best parts was identifying all the tiny cameos from nearly all of Campbell's other books. I think the only novel that didn't get a tie-in was The No Kiss Contract. It was great to get a little check-in with Genevra and Babs. And now, of course, I want to reread The Rules of Forever. Damn you, Nan Campbell, for writing books and characters that I fall in love with! But please don't stop.
I know this is a short review but there was so much for me to love with this book that I don't really know what else to say. Other than if you've enjoyed any of Ms. Campbell's other works, you'll likely love this one. And if you haven't read the other books in her catalogue, you could absolutely read this one as a stand-alone. But you'll have more fun if you've read the other books, too.
A HUGE thanks to Nan Campbell, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley. You all helped make my day so much better.
So what did I love about this book? Pretty much every damn thing. Helen's rage and fear and confusion. Nora's determination and undying attraction to so many things about Helen. And the story, itself. One of best parts was identifying all the tiny cameos from nearly all of Campbell's other books. I think the only novel that didn't get a tie-in was The No Kiss Contract. It was great to get a little check-in with Genevra and Babs. And now, of course, I want to reread The Rules of Forever. Damn you, Nan Campbell, for writing books and characters that I fall in love with! But please don't stop.
I know this is a short review but there was so much for me to love with this book that I don't really know what else to say. Other than if you've enjoyed any of Ms. Campbell's other works, you'll likely love this one. And if you haven't read the other books in her catalogue, you could absolutely read this one as a stand-alone. But you'll have more fun if you've read the other books, too.
A HUGE thanks to Nan Campbell, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley. You all helped make my day so much better.
November 15, 2025
Excellent story. I couldn't put it down.
June 5, 2026
Wonderful! What Happens on Location by Nan Campbell is an absolute triumph! I was thoroughly captivated by the framing story of the film set. Nan Campbell does a masterful job of pulling the reader into the high-stakes, pressure-cooker environment of a film shoot on location, making the professional roles and creative challenges of the lead characters, Helen and Nora, feel authentic and compelling. The framing story alone is really good, even before you factor in the romance.
But the heart (and soul) of the novel is, of course, the development of the central relationship. The chemistry between Helen and Nora is palpable, crackling with tension from their very first scene, and their transition from enemies to friends and eventually to lovers was handled with emotional depth and super pacing. Watching these two women navigate their complex history—marked by professional stakes, past betrayals, and lingering attraction—was a joy. And their emotional growth and finding each other is earned, making their HEA really satisfying.
I devoured this on audio, and the narration by Michelle H Lee was superb in bringing the characters to life. Her performance added such doses of nuance and plenty of vitality to the text, so that every shift in emotion, from frosty professional distance to vulnerable intimacy, really landed.
I love (love, love!) it when I find a romance book that so perfectly balances an intriguing workplace setting with such a rich, character-driven arc. Nan Campbell approaches genre luminaries such as Lee Winter and Jae territory here with a story that drags you in and showers you with (eventual) joy! What Happens on Location is a sophisticated, heart-warming story. Don’t miss out!
Thank you to the author and publisher—the amazing Bold Stokes Books—and to NetGalley for the chance to fall in love with Helen and Nora in this ARC.
But the heart (and soul) of the novel is, of course, the development of the central relationship. The chemistry between Helen and Nora is palpable, crackling with tension from their very first scene, and their transition from enemies to friends and eventually to lovers was handled with emotional depth and super pacing. Watching these two women navigate their complex history—marked by professional stakes, past betrayals, and lingering attraction—was a joy. And their emotional growth and finding each other is earned, making their HEA really satisfying.
I devoured this on audio, and the narration by Michelle H Lee was superb in bringing the characters to life. Her performance added such doses of nuance and plenty of vitality to the text, so that every shift in emotion, from frosty professional distance to vulnerable intimacy, really landed.
I love (love, love!) it when I find a romance book that so perfectly balances an intriguing workplace setting with such a rich, character-driven arc. Nan Campbell approaches genre luminaries such as Lee Winter and Jae territory here with a story that drags you in and showers you with (eventual) joy! What Happens on Location is a sophisticated, heart-warming story. Don’t miss out!
Thank you to the author and publisher—the amazing Bold Stokes Books—and to NetGalley for the chance to fall in love with Helen and Nora in this ARC.
December 13, 2025
I LOVE THIS BOOK! I love the forced proximity story line. Helen the producer and Nora the director, who knew each other years ago. But because of a misunderstanding by Helen things are strained in the beginning. But once the truth comes out, HOT!! They work well together, respecting and trusting one another. Such a fabulous book! 5 stars!
June 8, 2026
this is my second read through but this time it was a audio book and i have to say it was a great experience though maybe not at work....
the narrator was very clear and precise and you could tell the experience just by how it flowed... and thats also down to the authors writing....
its a great book to listen or read to....both are very good and i look forward to listening or reading more from this author
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book
helen cho and nora darmody had been friends that ended when nora slept with helens wife
but helens company now needed nora for the film that her company were making and so with effort helen approached nora with the offer and with some past misgiving nora accepted....
the only bug bear was that the filming on location meant everyone was in the same hotel and sharing what helen and nora hadnt realised was that they would be not only sharing a room but the king size bed ..... testing times for all but especially as helen was still trying to get over noras betrayal....
wow i have to say i loved this book .... a glimpse into the film industry and all that it brings the good and the bad... but it was helen and nora storyline that is gripping would they or wouldnt they... and a little glimpse of vegas is always good...
looking forward to reading more from this author
the narrator was very clear and precise and you could tell the experience just by how it flowed... and thats also down to the authors writing....
its a great book to listen or read to....both are very good and i look forward to listening or reading more from this author
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book
helen cho and nora darmody had been friends that ended when nora slept with helens wife
but helens company now needed nora for the film that her company were making and so with effort helen approached nora with the offer and with some past misgiving nora accepted....
the only bug bear was that the filming on location meant everyone was in the same hotel and sharing what helen and nora hadnt realised was that they would be not only sharing a room but the king size bed ..... testing times for all but especially as helen was still trying to get over noras betrayal....
wow i have to say i loved this book .... a glimpse into the film industry and all that it brings the good and the bad... but it was helen and nora storyline that is gripping would they or wouldnt they... and a little glimpse of vegas is always good...
looking forward to reading more from this author
December 19, 2025
Having to work with the woman that destroyed your marriage? And then being annoyingly attracted to that same sexy and competent woman? Ugh!
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Helen needs to save Propolis Films’s newest project. As CEO and producer it’s her duty to find a last minute replacement for the award winning director that quit. Too bad the only really worthy replacement is Nora. The woman Helen used to call friend until her wife cheated on her with Nora of all people. Helen has to be professional and surely she can manage that. It’s three years since her heartbreaking divorce, right?
Nora’s career is in a slump when she gets the call from Propolis. A dream project she cannot turn down. And maybe she will finally find out why her former secret crush Helen shunned her all of a sudden three years ago. Being in her presence again brings back all kinds of feelings for Nora. Feelings that are truly unwelcome when she ends up sharing a hotel room with Helen due to an unfortunate a planning hiccup…
Helen struggles to balance her hard ass producer image with her vulnerable, personal side. Whenever she opens up, it’s only for a short while before she changes the subject to something wholly different. Emotions are hard and a lot of the time they suck. It made her character so believably human.
To be honest, I might actually be a bit in love with Nora. At one point, when Helen decided to douse their building connection with a harsh and, in my opinion, unfair reality check, I seriously wanted to throw a glass of ice water in her face! How could she not see that Nora is the most decent, kind, caring, sexy, and competent woman? Helen needed to work really hard to make me forgive her. (Insert haughty stare here.) But of course she made it happen. Never doubt the talent of Nan Campbell for making you love a character.
I love all the tie ins with Campbell’s previous novels. Starting with Hollywood star Chelsea and then the mention of the little animation film Mallory is making in Hot Honey Love. It’s great when an author’s universe has these little cross connections.
The side characters make up a great cast. PA Victor, a transman, wants to be in the movie business. Nora tries to forge a connection with him and make him feel comfortable about asking questions. She’s such a nice person! And then there is Helen’s mom. Mrs. Cho sees and knows all. When it comes to her daughter’s emotional wellbeing, she delivers advice in a way only a loving mom can.
What Happens On Location is an entertaining, low angst, fun, and sweet story. It has a little of everything: characters to love, fun banter, emotional turmoil and a satisfying HEA. Let’s hope Nan keeps adding to this awesome universe she created!
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Helen needs to save Propolis Films’s newest project. As CEO and producer it’s her duty to find a last minute replacement for the award winning director that quit. Too bad the only really worthy replacement is Nora. The woman Helen used to call friend until her wife cheated on her with Nora of all people. Helen has to be professional and surely she can manage that. It’s three years since her heartbreaking divorce, right?
Nora’s career is in a slump when she gets the call from Propolis. A dream project she cannot turn down. And maybe she will finally find out why her former secret crush Helen shunned her all of a sudden three years ago. Being in her presence again brings back all kinds of feelings for Nora. Feelings that are truly unwelcome when she ends up sharing a hotel room with Helen due to an unfortunate a planning hiccup…
Helen struggles to balance her hard ass producer image with her vulnerable, personal side. Whenever she opens up, it’s only for a short while before she changes the subject to something wholly different. Emotions are hard and a lot of the time they suck. It made her character so believably human.
To be honest, I might actually be a bit in love with Nora. At one point, when Helen decided to douse their building connection with a harsh and, in my opinion, unfair reality check, I seriously wanted to throw a glass of ice water in her face! How could she not see that Nora is the most decent, kind, caring, sexy, and competent woman? Helen needed to work really hard to make me forgive her. (Insert haughty stare here.) But of course she made it happen. Never doubt the talent of Nan Campbell for making you love a character.
I love all the tie ins with Campbell’s previous novels. Starting with Hollywood star Chelsea and then the mention of the little animation film Mallory is making in Hot Honey Love. It’s great when an author’s universe has these little cross connections.
The side characters make up a great cast. PA Victor, a transman, wants to be in the movie business. Nora tries to forge a connection with him and make him feel comfortable about asking questions. She’s such a nice person! And then there is Helen’s mom. Mrs. Cho sees and knows all. When it comes to her daughter’s emotional wellbeing, she delivers advice in a way only a loving mom can.
What Happens On Location is an entertaining, low angst, fun, and sweet story. It has a little of everything: characters to love, fun banter, emotional turmoil and a satisfying HEA. Let’s hope Nan keeps adding to this awesome universe she created!
October 26, 2025
I love the Hollywood trope and it was fun that this took us to other parts of the US while still being immersed in movie making. I really enjoyed Nora’s character and the fact that Helen lived with her mom. I didn’t connect all the way with the romance though and it took me a minute to get into their story. I liked the side characters so much I wanted to see more happen with them, sometimes more than the mains. Miscommunication is not my favorite trope but I thought it was handled well and didn’t drag which I appreciated. All the music references were fun. Anyone who liked Like They Do in the Movies will be happy to be back in that world. 3.5
Short summary: when the director pulls out of Propolis’ sophomore film, Helen is less than pleased her partners recommend Nora for the job, the woman she thinks ruined her marriage. But when a snafu lands them in the same hotel room, Helen is forced to work out the truth and so much more from her new director.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Short summary: when the director pulls out of Propolis’ sophomore film, Helen is less than pleased her partners recommend Nora for the job, the woman she thinks ruined her marriage. But when a snafu lands them in the same hotel room, Helen is forced to work out the truth and so much more from her new director.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2026
Great book. It didn’t quite capture whatever it was that I loved about the first one, but its still a solid novel. I liked the characters, the story, the setting. It was good, just not quite that 5-star mark.
Some elements were underwhelming or a little annoying. The amount of time that the reveal of their misunderstanding took to materialize was a bit unbelievable given the situation. There was a lot of time spent on the behavior of that one actress…which didn’t seem to truly go anywhere or have any payoff. I also would love to know what ever happened to that bigoted investor, considering it was a sizable plot point. Etc.
All that said, it was a good and enjoyable book. If you’re not like me and keeping a mental tally of all the plot points you expect to come back and have resolutions, then these elements wouldn’t bother you.
I have also never seen someone romanticize the exotic nature of oatmeal before, so honestly what a memorable paragraph.
Some elements were underwhelming or a little annoying. The amount of time that the reveal of their misunderstanding took to materialize was a bit unbelievable given the situation. There was a lot of time spent on the behavior of that one actress…which didn’t seem to truly go anywhere or have any payoff. I also would love to know what ever happened to that bigoted investor, considering it was a sizable plot point. Etc.
All that said, it was a good and enjoyable book. If you’re not like me and keeping a mental tally of all the plot points you expect to come back and have resolutions, then these elements wouldn’t bother you.
I have also never seen someone romanticize the exotic nature of oatmeal before, so honestly what a memorable paragraph.
Read
June 5, 2026I’ve liked Nan Campbell books and I was sure I’d enjoy this one. I was not wrong in my assumption.
The narrator, Michell H. Lee, also did a good job.
To call this story an enemies to lovers would be a bit of a stretch, but it is in the same realm. What I like most about this book isotherm diversity in characters and all the strong women backed initiatives. Sure, this isn’t close to reality, especially in the entertainment industry, but it’s fun to read about.
I feel like this book might be best described as a redemption story. It’s true for one of our leading ladies, but to some extent it also applies to the other, if you stretch the definition a little.
I enjoyed it, it’s good fun entertainment.
The narrator, Michell H. Lee, also did a good job.
To call this story an enemies to lovers would be a bit of a stretch, but it is in the same realm. What I like most about this book isotherm diversity in characters and all the strong women backed initiatives. Sure, this isn’t close to reality, especially in the entertainment industry, but it’s fun to read about.
I feel like this book might be best described as a redemption story. It’s true for one of our leading ladies, but to some extent it also applies to the other, if you stretch the definition a little.
I enjoyed it, it’s good fun entertainment.
November 26, 2025
So good!
Helen is reunited with Nora, the woman who broke up her marriage, when she has no choice but to hire her as the replacement director for her latest film. Nora’s career is not going to plan, and working with Helen isn’t ideal but she has no choice. To make the film a success they are going to have to get passed what happened before and have trust.
From the moment we meet Helen and Nora, the tension between them was clear and everyone seemed to pick up on it to a point. I loved how this story explored them having to be selfless in this decision, as it was their careers on the line if something went wrong with the film. We got to know enough about what had happened in the past from both their perspectives that it was quite intimate in joining them on this project. Fate was definitely at play with the situation they ended up in, and I loved the cosiness of their relationship as they were becoming reacquainted. It was actually a lot of fun, especially those first few days when they were trying to navigate being back in one another’s lives and remaining professional.
Helen was definitely more resistant to explore the attraction between them, and partly in denial, which made for some brilliant moments where other characters concerned themselves. It was easy to empathise with Helen, and the resentment she was harbouring towards their friendship. Nora did as much as she could to try not to impose or push Helen, but she hopeful of reconciliation of something more, and I loved that about her. I was totally invested in them succeeding and getting back to a harmonious place, because from time to time there would be this snippet of how they used to be, and Helen would indulge but then suddenly hold herself back. It was such a great connection though, and I knew they’d do great things whether they figured it out or not.
Really enjoyed every second of this story. It’s got the glams of film-making, and the not so glam parts where it is tough and really hard work. It has a sprinkle of magic, lots of drama and angst, and two strong determined women who deserve all the happiness.
Helen is reunited with Nora, the woman who broke up her marriage, when she has no choice but to hire her as the replacement director for her latest film. Nora’s career is not going to plan, and working with Helen isn’t ideal but she has no choice. To make the film a success they are going to have to get passed what happened before and have trust.
From the moment we meet Helen and Nora, the tension between them was clear and everyone seemed to pick up on it to a point. I loved how this story explored them having to be selfless in this decision, as it was their careers on the line if something went wrong with the film. We got to know enough about what had happened in the past from both their perspectives that it was quite intimate in joining them on this project. Fate was definitely at play with the situation they ended up in, and I loved the cosiness of their relationship as they were becoming reacquainted. It was actually a lot of fun, especially those first few days when they were trying to navigate being back in one another’s lives and remaining professional.
Helen was definitely more resistant to explore the attraction between them, and partly in denial, which made for some brilliant moments where other characters concerned themselves. It was easy to empathise with Helen, and the resentment she was harbouring towards their friendship. Nora did as much as she could to try not to impose or push Helen, but she hopeful of reconciliation of something more, and I loved that about her. I was totally invested in them succeeding and getting back to a harmonious place, because from time to time there would be this snippet of how they used to be, and Helen would indulge but then suddenly hold herself back. It was such a great connection though, and I knew they’d do great things whether they figured it out or not.
Really enjoyed every second of this story. It’s got the glams of film-making, and the not so glam parts where it is tough and really hard work. It has a sprinkle of magic, lots of drama and angst, and two strong determined women who deserve all the happiness.
October 12, 2025
The book was a fine beach read.
The writing touched a nerve that knocked stars from my rating. The book is overall a slightly too long light romance that never tries too hard. I hate when people refer to minor mistakes as failures, and despite obvious success refer to themselves as failures. It happens in real life as in fiction and it is a huge pet peeve. So, every time Helen refers to herself as a failure, mistakes as failures and implies that everything she touches is cursed I nearly closed the book. Nora soothes these moments but never really challenges her, because Nora is very determined to be supportive and loving. Maybe because of the allusions to her unsupportive Middle America family (an obvious contrast to Helen's supportive immigrant family.) The two women are basically the same character, except Helen is Korean and failure focused, and Nora has never been married.
I note Helen's Korean identity because the book uses it to contrast her with others, but it could've been any immigrant minority for specificity or how much it mattered to Helen's character or the plot.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance copy.
The writing touched a nerve that knocked stars from my rating. The book is overall a slightly too long light romance that never tries too hard. I hate when people refer to minor mistakes as failures, and despite obvious success refer to themselves as failures. It happens in real life as in fiction and it is a huge pet peeve. So, every time Helen refers to herself as a failure, mistakes as failures and implies that everything she touches is cursed I nearly closed the book. Nora soothes these moments but never really challenges her, because Nora is very determined to be supportive and loving. Maybe because of the allusions to her unsupportive Middle America family (an obvious contrast to Helen's supportive immigrant family.) The two women are basically the same character, except Helen is Korean and failure focused, and Nora has never been married.
I note Helen's Korean identity because the book uses it to contrast her with others, but it could've been any immigrant minority for specificity or how much it mattered to Helen's character or the plot.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance copy.
January 15, 2026
I kind of had to fight at the end to stay interested.
While I feel like we had a very clear picture of who Helen is, I felt almost nothing for Nora. Helen who is divorced, a bit depressed and sometimes really really picky and choosy (got on my nerves for a while there) While we know that a scandal impacted Nora's life. I don't know exactly what it was, but I couldn't relate to her at all.
In the blurb of the book, the cheating was very prominent, whereas While I am very proud of a book that resolves it's issues with talking, why was it advertised as a mayor plot point? It felt more like a small inconvenience...
But I have to say, as a person who likes cuddling plus the trope of getting cuddled while sleeping, this was a real treat.
While I feel like we had a very clear picture of who Helen is, I felt almost nothing for Nora. Helen who is divorced, a bit depressed and sometimes really really picky and choosy (got on my nerves for a while there) While we know that a scandal impacted Nora's life. I don't know exactly what it was, but I couldn't relate to her at all.
In the blurb of the book, the cheating was very prominent, whereas While I am very proud of a book that resolves it's issues with talking, why was it advertised as a mayor plot point? It felt more like a small inconvenience...
But I have to say, as a person who likes cuddling plus the trope of getting cuddled while sleeping, this was a real treat.
October 15, 2025
4.5⭐️ This was a great read! I liked the premise and the pacing. I enjoyed Helen and Nora very much. Many of the side characters were so fun especially Umma Cho ;).
Thank you NetGalley for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story starts off with a bit of one sided enemies to lovers vibe. But there’s also a bit of (requited?) unrequited pining as well. Our MCs end up working closely together on a movie as producer and director.. Due to the previous p/d plans, our story features forced proximity, workplace romance and only one bed tropes. Each are well thought out and executed. There’s humor, there’s steam, there’s lots of those lovely feels. There’s also a lot of behind the scenes of movie making which was fun. Recommend!!
Thank you NetGalley for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story starts off with a bit of one sided enemies to lovers vibe. But there’s also a bit of (requited?) unrequited pining as well. Our MCs end up working closely together on a movie as producer and director.. Due to the previous p/d plans, our story features forced proximity, workplace romance and only one bed tropes. Each are well thought out and executed. There’s humor, there’s steam, there’s lots of those lovely feels. There’s also a lot of behind the scenes of movie making which was fun. Recommend!!
September 28, 2025
Helen CEO of Propolis is in urgent need of a replacement director for her new film and seeks out Nan - who is now directing commercials due to the bad publicity of her last movie - despite believing that she slept with her then wife Monica!!
They agree to work together but Nan, who had a crush on Helen previously doesn’t understand why Helen is so frosty towards her.
The story takes us ion a journey through film making and Nan and Helen being in forced proximity of each other and how their relationship changes during this time. However Helen has a negative view of her ability to sustain another long term relationship and this affects their relationship!!
It is a well written story with some greats characters and was enjoyable to read.
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books, Nan Campbell and NetGalley for the ARC. The review was freely given.
They agree to work together but Nan, who had a crush on Helen previously doesn’t understand why Helen is so frosty towards her.
The story takes us ion a journey through film making and Nan and Helen being in forced proximity of each other and how their relationship changes during this time. However Helen has a negative view of her ability to sustain another long term relationship and this affects their relationship!!
It is a well written story with some greats characters and was enjoyable to read.
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books, Nan Campbell and NetGalley for the ARC. The review was freely given.
November 5, 2025
This story takes place during the making of an indie film. Helen is the CEO of the production company, and Nora is hired as director at the last minute. You get a good look behind the scenes and witness how the relationship between Helen and Nora develops. It was a solid story with great characters, and Helen and especially Nora were very likable. It's not necessary to read book 1 in this series, but I found that installment slightly better than this one, so it's not a waste of your time.
March 13, 2026
Enjoyable ‘movie’ story featuring the producers rather than the stars. Both MCs were likeable and came with their baggage. Both had to put the past behind them to get to their HEA.
June 16, 2026
Very sweet read, and great insight into movie making.
January 4, 2026
Okay okay okay this one absolutely slayed in my books. I fell into this book so fast and fully deVoured it. This is one of those books you pick up and never want to put down and lives in your head rent free when it’s not in your hands!!! I was fully sacrificing sleep and my lunch breaks for this book.
Literally during work I would think about when I get to continue reading…
For the girlies who like their hot sexy steamy reads.
Honestly What Happens On Location slayed so hard I entered a reading slump after finishing this book!!! Almost ruined my reading challenge for the year…
Sobbing crying and throwing up. Anytime there’s a sweet mother-daughter interaction kills me and this one almost choked me up at work. She was to the point and also this quote:
I miss Helen, Nora, Opal, Mama Cho and the whole crew <3
Um yes, I will be re-reading for sure.
Literally during work I would think about when I get to continue reading…
For the girlies who like their hot sexy steamy reads.
Honestly What Happens On Location slayed so hard I entered a reading slump after finishing this book!!! Almost ruined my reading challenge for the year…
Sobbing crying and throwing up. Anytime there’s a sweet mother-daughter interaction kills me and this one almost choked me up at work. She was to the point and also this quote:
I miss Helen, Nora, Opal, Mama Cho and the whole crew <3
Um yes, I will be re-reading for sure.
October 16, 2025
A big thank you to NetGalley, Bold Strokes Books and author Nan Campbell for this ARC opportunity. I am leaving my honest review.
What Happens On Location is a brilliant take on enemies to lovers with a healthy dose of forced proximity. Nan Campbell creates a well written and wildly entertaining masterpiece and I could not get enough. I devoured this book quickly and was thoroughly engaged from start to finish. This was a fun and creative take on some familiar tropes with the added complexity of a “will they or won't they” slow burn romance. Bravo Nan Campbell! This is actually the first book by Nan Campbell that I have had the privilege to read but certainly will not be my last. Other reviews have mentioned the various appearances of previous characters throughout this book that I can’t truly appreciate having not read any previous work. However, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can attest that it can be read as a great stand alone.
Helen Cho is a professional badass, having realized a lifelong ambition of starting her own production company. She’s kickin ass and taking names when the director of the movie her company is making must withdraw. Scrambling to save her movie she must hire a replacement. Unfortunately, the best available director happens to be a woman that Helen blamed for the destruction of her marriage. Nora, the alleged marriage destroyer, hasn’t exactly gotten her big directorial break despite being damn good at her work. She eagerly accepts the offer from Helen's company, Propolis Pictures, and is thrilled. She is excited for the opportunity and is bound and determined to make this film a success. So Helen must work in close proximity with the reason her marriage imploded and Nora is none the wiser…oh and Nora has a long standing and pretty massive crush on Helen. All of this makes for a pretty darn entertaining story!
Both Helen and Nora are forced to work together in close collaboration and proximity, for the good of the movie, and that’s when the tension becomes palpable. The stakes are high both professionally and emotionally for the both of them. Helen is type A and a veritable perfectionist. Despite experiencing professional success she truly believes that she isn’t good enough. It’s clear that the end of her marriage and getting cheated on has damaged her self worth. She is just so hard on herself and I felt such a strong urge to hug her and tell her she is enough as is. She is such a layered character and I liked her a lot. Nora, however, I loved! She has so much genuine kindness that it just exudes from her. All grit and no glory has kind of been the story of her life but she never gives up. She gives everything her all, progressionally and personally, which I believe is the aspect that makes the relationship between Helena and her thrive.
Helen and Nora are flawed and relatable characters that nestled their way into my heart. As you can probably guess, they are forced to share space constantly and even hotel rooms (yay!). I loved this aspect of the story because it is where our ladies connect. Once the truth of Nora’s innocence is revealed Helen's vitriol vanishes and we can finally get down to brass tacks with our central love story. So much happened and I was glued to my e-reader. Nora and Helen are great together. They have so much in common, compliment each other well and the chemistry can’t be denied. The romantic scenes were just delicious and really solidified the romance for me. They were very hot but so much more than that. We got intimacy, connection and passion. Soooo good! I believe timing is everything and this is their time! I was rooting for them all along and was just thrilled at their happy ending.
The book delves into the very interesting and highly complicated process of making a film. There is so much involved that I never considered and it was really engaging to learn about. It also gave the book more depth and intrigue. The writing is fantastic! Campbell writes with purpose and meaning. She doesn’t compromise on style for description, you get it all. Her writing was clever, engaging and even quite charming. Campbell did a wonderful job of creating a story I was happy to get back to every time I had to take a break in my reading. Despite having read many books that have used the forced proximity or rivals to lovers tropes, I felt like I was reading a fresh take on these tried and true themes. I fell in love with Nan and Helen and was invested in their success and I was even invested in the success of their movie.
This is a really fun and engaging read. I definitely recommend this book for anyone who can appreciate the true beauty behind the forced proximity concept. It is where the darkness comes to light and the truth is revealed for our leading ladies. This is an entertaining read that is more emotionally deep than I'd have thought and was really satisfying. This book is for all fans of sapphic love stories with heart, revelation, humor, heat and real love!
What Happens On Location is a brilliant take on enemies to lovers with a healthy dose of forced proximity. Nan Campbell creates a well written and wildly entertaining masterpiece and I could not get enough. I devoured this book quickly and was thoroughly engaged from start to finish. This was a fun and creative take on some familiar tropes with the added complexity of a “will they or won't they” slow burn romance. Bravo Nan Campbell! This is actually the first book by Nan Campbell that I have had the privilege to read but certainly will not be my last. Other reviews have mentioned the various appearances of previous characters throughout this book that I can’t truly appreciate having not read any previous work. However, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can attest that it can be read as a great stand alone.
Helen Cho is a professional badass, having realized a lifelong ambition of starting her own production company. She’s kickin ass and taking names when the director of the movie her company is making must withdraw. Scrambling to save her movie she must hire a replacement. Unfortunately, the best available director happens to be a woman that Helen blamed for the destruction of her marriage. Nora, the alleged marriage destroyer, hasn’t exactly gotten her big directorial break despite being damn good at her work. She eagerly accepts the offer from Helen's company, Propolis Pictures, and is thrilled. She is excited for the opportunity and is bound and determined to make this film a success. So Helen must work in close proximity with the reason her marriage imploded and Nora is none the wiser…oh and Nora has a long standing and pretty massive crush on Helen. All of this makes for a pretty darn entertaining story!
Both Helen and Nora are forced to work together in close collaboration and proximity, for the good of the movie, and that’s when the tension becomes palpable. The stakes are high both professionally and emotionally for the both of them. Helen is type A and a veritable perfectionist. Despite experiencing professional success she truly believes that she isn’t good enough. It’s clear that the end of her marriage and getting cheated on has damaged her self worth. She is just so hard on herself and I felt such a strong urge to hug her and tell her she is enough as is. She is such a layered character and I liked her a lot. Nora, however, I loved! She has so much genuine kindness that it just exudes from her. All grit and no glory has kind of been the story of her life but she never gives up. She gives everything her all, progressionally and personally, which I believe is the aspect that makes the relationship between Helena and her thrive.
Helen and Nora are flawed and relatable characters that nestled their way into my heart. As you can probably guess, they are forced to share space constantly and even hotel rooms (yay!). I loved this aspect of the story because it is where our ladies connect. Once the truth of Nora’s innocence is revealed Helen's vitriol vanishes and we can finally get down to brass tacks with our central love story. So much happened and I was glued to my e-reader. Nora and Helen are great together. They have so much in common, compliment each other well and the chemistry can’t be denied. The romantic scenes were just delicious and really solidified the romance for me. They were very hot but so much more than that. We got intimacy, connection and passion. Soooo good! I believe timing is everything and this is their time! I was rooting for them all along and was just thrilled at their happy ending.
The book delves into the very interesting and highly complicated process of making a film. There is so much involved that I never considered and it was really engaging to learn about. It also gave the book more depth and intrigue. The writing is fantastic! Campbell writes with purpose and meaning. She doesn’t compromise on style for description, you get it all. Her writing was clever, engaging and even quite charming. Campbell did a wonderful job of creating a story I was happy to get back to every time I had to take a break in my reading. Despite having read many books that have used the forced proximity or rivals to lovers tropes, I felt like I was reading a fresh take on these tried and true themes. I fell in love with Nan and Helen and was invested in their success and I was even invested in the success of their movie.
This is a really fun and engaging read. I definitely recommend this book for anyone who can appreciate the true beauty behind the forced proximity concept. It is where the darkness comes to light and the truth is revealed for our leading ladies. This is an entertaining read that is more emotionally deep than I'd have thought and was really satisfying. This book is for all fans of sapphic love stories with heart, revelation, humor, heat and real love!
January 10, 2026
Synopsis:
Helen Cho, the newly appointed CEO of newly created Propolis Pictures, excels at putting out fires and getting the job done, which is why her two business partners want her to be the on-set EP (executive producer) for the company’s latest film. The very in demand director for the project had to bow out, taking the original EP with her, and leaving Propolis in a bind. With only a few short weeks until the first day on set of their location shoot, Propolis has to find a new director and EP. Helen reluctantly agrees to go to the set and to accept Nora Darmody, an unfairly disgraced director, to take over. The only problem is that Helen thinks Nora slept with her wife. Will romance ensue?
Review:
Sigh. I loved this book. I should just leave it here with a hearty exhortation to go get one, but I really want to talk about it.
Ok, so first, I want to tackle the tropes. I didn’t have trouble coming up with my front page arrows because there were so many things I could choose from. That’s what was so fantastic about this book. Campbell didn’t just slap some lazy tropes up in order to prop up her storylines. She’s too good an author to do that. No, what Campbell did was almost reinvent them so that it didn’t feel like a trope. There was only one bed because of a large set of logical processes that just made sense in the story Then, when Nora and Helen realized the issue, they handled it like adults. There were none of the stupidly gallant declarations of a desire to sleep on the floor. It was a king size bed. They could share. And, despite the fact that they were both obviously attracted to each other, clothes were not stripped off immediately. Likewise, their grumpy/sunshine dynamic was due to a complex development of their characters. Campbell doesn’t just hit you over the head with it all, either. There are subtle interactions that shine lights on underlying psychological processes for both major characters. It made it so that each revelation of the a character’s personality was organic and just made sense. Second, the third act breakup wasn’t one. Hear me out on this. Yes, they did break up in the third act, so technically it was a third act breakup, but it was so much more than that. Again, Campbell managed to make this into a realistic process. The breakup was just a part of Helen’s character arc. Helen needed to think and grow and heal. As she did so, and as a part of the impetus to do so, Helen needed to be separated from Nora. For the character, it was the journey she needed to take to end up happy in life. For the reader, it was swift and filled with just a little bit of delicious angst. It was just the best way for both characters and the storyline to reach their intended climax (pun intended). Third, I know that Campbell really enjoys doing the research for each book and it shows. I was a child actor. Reading this book brought back a lot of memories. Campbell really nailed the feeling of being on a movie set without getting lost in the minutiae. Also, the temperature and desolation of northern Nevada were described perfectly. As someone who once had to chase her escaped puppy through the northern Nevada desert in early December, and subsequently had mild hypothermia, I can attest to the authenticity.
Fourth, Campbell was able to use the movie shoot as almost a third main character and it was brilliant. Why was there only one bed? Movie shoot. Why were they keeping their relationship quiet? Movie shoot. Forced proximity? Movie Shoot. Exhaustion? Reasons to drink? Reasons to dance? All because of the movie shoot. It never felt forced. In fact, if I wasn’t reading with a critical eye and thoughts about what I would be writing here, I’m not sure that I would have even noticed. And that is what I am trying to impress upon you all throughout this review. Campbell is so skilled that she leads you along through the story and everything just feels natural. Never once did I stop and think, “Like that would happen.” All of the interactions and events felt like inevitable cause and effect. And that is the beauty of a wonderful writer. You should all go grab a copy of this book (or really any Nan Campbell book).
Many thanks to @nancampbellwrites, @boldstrokesbooks, and @netgalley for the copy of this awesome, swoon-worthy book (which in no way influenced my review). IF you are looking for a spectacularly well-written story that mixes a little bit of Hollywood with a little bit of reality, then you should be out there grabbing a copy today.
Helen Cho, the newly appointed CEO of newly created Propolis Pictures, excels at putting out fires and getting the job done, which is why her two business partners want her to be the on-set EP (executive producer) for the company’s latest film. The very in demand director for the project had to bow out, taking the original EP with her, and leaving Propolis in a bind. With only a few short weeks until the first day on set of their location shoot, Propolis has to find a new director and EP. Helen reluctantly agrees to go to the set and to accept Nora Darmody, an unfairly disgraced director, to take over. The only problem is that Helen thinks Nora slept with her wife. Will romance ensue?
Review:
Sigh. I loved this book. I should just leave it here with a hearty exhortation to go get one, but I really want to talk about it.
Ok, so first, I want to tackle the tropes. I didn’t have trouble coming up with my front page arrows because there were so many things I could choose from. That’s what was so fantastic about this book. Campbell didn’t just slap some lazy tropes up in order to prop up her storylines. She’s too good an author to do that. No, what Campbell did was almost reinvent them so that it didn’t feel like a trope. There was only one bed because of a large set of logical processes that just made sense in the story Then, when Nora and Helen realized the issue, they handled it like adults. There were none of the stupidly gallant declarations of a desire to sleep on the floor. It was a king size bed. They could share. And, despite the fact that they were both obviously attracted to each other, clothes were not stripped off immediately. Likewise, their grumpy/sunshine dynamic was due to a complex development of their characters. Campbell doesn’t just hit you over the head with it all, either. There are subtle interactions that shine lights on underlying psychological processes for both major characters. It made it so that each revelation of the a character’s personality was organic and just made sense. Second, the third act breakup wasn’t one. Hear me out on this. Yes, they did break up in the third act, so technically it was a third act breakup, but it was so much more than that. Again, Campbell managed to make this into a realistic process. The breakup was just a part of Helen’s character arc. Helen needed to think and grow and heal. As she did so, and as a part of the impetus to do so, Helen needed to be separated from Nora. For the character, it was the journey she needed to take to end up happy in life. For the reader, it was swift and filled with just a little bit of delicious angst. It was just the best way for both characters and the storyline to reach their intended climax (pun intended). Third, I know that Campbell really enjoys doing the research for each book and it shows. I was a child actor. Reading this book brought back a lot of memories. Campbell really nailed the feeling of being on a movie set without getting lost in the minutiae. Also, the temperature and desolation of northern Nevada were described perfectly. As someone who once had to chase her escaped puppy through the northern Nevada desert in early December, and subsequently had mild hypothermia, I can attest to the authenticity.
Fourth, Campbell was able to use the movie shoot as almost a third main character and it was brilliant. Why was there only one bed? Movie shoot. Why were they keeping their relationship quiet? Movie shoot. Forced proximity? Movie Shoot. Exhaustion? Reasons to drink? Reasons to dance? All because of the movie shoot. It never felt forced. In fact, if I wasn’t reading with a critical eye and thoughts about what I would be writing here, I’m not sure that I would have even noticed. And that is what I am trying to impress upon you all throughout this review. Campbell is so skilled that she leads you along through the story and everything just feels natural. Never once did I stop and think, “Like that would happen.” All of the interactions and events felt like inevitable cause and effect. And that is the beauty of a wonderful writer. You should all go grab a copy of this book (or really any Nan Campbell book).
Many thanks to @nancampbellwrites, @boldstrokesbooks, and @netgalley for the copy of this awesome, swoon-worthy book (which in no way influenced my review). IF you are looking for a spectacularly well-written story that mixes a little bit of Hollywood with a little bit of reality, then you should be out there grabbing a copy today.
June 5, 2026
What Happens on Location by Nan Campbell completely swept me away. From the opening chapters, I was drawn into the chaotic, fast-paced world of filmmaking, where every decision feels urgent and every setback could derail an entire production. The behind-the-scenes setting felt vivid and believable, adding so much depth to the story long before the romance truly took center stage. 🎬✨
At the heart of the novel are Helen and Nora, two women whose shared past creates a magnetic push-and-pull dynamic that kept me invested from beginning to end. Their history is layered with hurt, unresolved feelings, and missed opportunities, making every interaction feel meaningful. The progression of their relationship unfolds naturally, allowing trust and affection to rebuild piece by piece. Watching them find their way back to one another was both touching and deeply rewarding. ❤️
Nora quickly became my favorite character. She's compassionate, genuine, and refreshingly self-aware, with a warmth that lights up every scene she's in. Helen, on the other hand, is far more guarded. Carrying emotional scars from her divorce, she struggles to lower the walls she's built around herself. There were moments when I wanted to reach through the pages and tell her to stop overthinking everything 😅, but her fears and insecurities felt authentic. That made her eventual growth all the more satisfying.
One of my favorite aspects was how effortlessly Campbell balanced the romance with the workplace storyline. The film production backdrop adds constant momentum without overshadowing the emotional journey. The supporting cast also contributes so much charm, particularly Helen's insightful mother, who brings warmth and perspective whenever she appears. 🌟
And can we talk about the tropes? The second-chance romance is wonderfully executed, and the "one bed" situation delivered exactly the kind of tension and tenderness I was hoping for. 🛏️💕 Better yet, the story avoids unnecessary drama. Instead of relying on over-the-top conflicts, it focuses on vulnerability, healing, and two people learning to take a chance on love again.
I experienced this story through the audiobook, and Michelle H Lee's narration elevated an already fantastic novel. Her performance captured every emotional shift beautifully, from awkward distance and lingering resentment to longing, hope, and intimacy. 🎧💖
Warm, heartfelt, and incredibly engaging, What Happens on Location is a romance that blends a fascinating professional setting with rich character development. Fans of Lee Winter and Jae will likely find plenty to love here. Nan Campbell has crafted a moving, mature love story that left me smiling long after I finished. Highly recommended! 🌈📚✨
At the heart of the novel are Helen and Nora, two women whose shared past creates a magnetic push-and-pull dynamic that kept me invested from beginning to end. Their history is layered with hurt, unresolved feelings, and missed opportunities, making every interaction feel meaningful. The progression of their relationship unfolds naturally, allowing trust and affection to rebuild piece by piece. Watching them find their way back to one another was both touching and deeply rewarding. ❤️
Nora quickly became my favorite character. She's compassionate, genuine, and refreshingly self-aware, with a warmth that lights up every scene she's in. Helen, on the other hand, is far more guarded. Carrying emotional scars from her divorce, she struggles to lower the walls she's built around herself. There were moments when I wanted to reach through the pages and tell her to stop overthinking everything 😅, but her fears and insecurities felt authentic. That made her eventual growth all the more satisfying.
One of my favorite aspects was how effortlessly Campbell balanced the romance with the workplace storyline. The film production backdrop adds constant momentum without overshadowing the emotional journey. The supporting cast also contributes so much charm, particularly Helen's insightful mother, who brings warmth and perspective whenever she appears. 🌟
And can we talk about the tropes? The second-chance romance is wonderfully executed, and the "one bed" situation delivered exactly the kind of tension and tenderness I was hoping for. 🛏️💕 Better yet, the story avoids unnecessary drama. Instead of relying on over-the-top conflicts, it focuses on vulnerability, healing, and two people learning to take a chance on love again.
I experienced this story through the audiobook, and Michelle H Lee's narration elevated an already fantastic novel. Her performance captured every emotional shift beautifully, from awkward distance and lingering resentment to longing, hope, and intimacy. 🎧💖
Warm, heartfelt, and incredibly engaging, What Happens on Location is a romance that blends a fascinating professional setting with rich character development. Fans of Lee Winter and Jae will likely find plenty to love here. Nan Campbell has crafted a moving, mature love story that left me smiling long after I finished. Highly recommended! 🌈📚✨
October 13, 2025
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
Now I really liked the relationship between Nora and Helen, it didn't feel like insta-love or insta-lust and felt that it grew pretty natural with the forced proximity in the mix.
I don't generally love books where a main character starts in a relationship, or, in this case, has an ex whose presence is very much felt but I felt this was done well and decently realistic. A long term relationship ending because of cheating, with multiple people, is something I think most people would have a hard time coming to terms with. Even if it's been 3 years.
I liked the show-biz (or movie-biz I guess) stuff a lot in this too, as in general that is a huge turn on for me when it comes to romance novels. I loved the bits we see with Kaylee and her gaining confidence in her acting and getting more comfortable with the camera and Nora. Victor was so lovely to see in page and I loved him as a side character. Even though it wasn't a lot of show-biz in the grand scheme of things, it still was just enough to scratch that itch.
Now for my complaints. It's told to us in chapter one that Helen's ex-wife cheated with multiple people including Nora. Because of that Helen doesn't really see a relationship with anyone any time soon, nevermind the woman her wife said she cheated on her with.
Because of that I really wish the hatred, or the dislike, was drawn out a bit more on Helen's side. Because she makes it clear in chapter one that even though it's been three years since the divorce she is not up to forgiving anyone. But it tapers off pretty quickly once we get to the forced proximity aspect.
Also I really wish the book made it clearer that Helen was not the one to blame when it came to Melanie's cheating. I felt like every time we came close to "While they weren't compatible and Helen was too work oriented for Melanie, it was still Melanie's fault that she cheated and their marriage fell apart" it quickly veers into "Well, Helen was a workaholic and wasn't paying enough attention to Melanie." which erked me every time. I'd be much more forgiving of the fact if it was a 1st POV instead of the 3rd.
It made sense for Helen to be more hesitant, or out right refusing to get into a new relationship due to her workaholic tendencies being what Melanie blamed her infidelity on so I'm glad that was a part of the story. Hell, it ended up becoming the main conflict.
This isn't a romcom, and the characters are older and the relationship is les4les. If any of those are something you're into I'd say give it a go.
Now I really liked the relationship between Nora and Helen, it didn't feel like insta-love or insta-lust and felt that it grew pretty natural with the forced proximity in the mix.
I don't generally love books where a main character starts in a relationship, or, in this case, has an ex whose presence is very much felt but I felt this was done well and decently realistic. A long term relationship ending because of cheating, with multiple people, is something I think most people would have a hard time coming to terms with. Even if it's been 3 years.
I liked the show-biz (or movie-biz I guess) stuff a lot in this too, as in general that is a huge turn on for me when it comes to romance novels. I loved the bits we see with Kaylee and her gaining confidence in her acting and getting more comfortable with the camera and Nora. Victor was so lovely to see in page and I loved him as a side character. Even though it wasn't a lot of show-biz in the grand scheme of things, it still was just enough to scratch that itch.
Now for my complaints. It's told to us in chapter one that Helen's ex-wife cheated with multiple people including Nora. Because of that Helen doesn't really see a relationship with anyone any time soon, nevermind the woman her wife said she cheated on her with.
Because of that I really wish the hatred, or the dislike, was drawn out a bit more on Helen's side. Because she makes it clear in chapter one that even though it's been three years since the divorce she is not up to forgiving anyone. But it tapers off pretty quickly once we get to the forced proximity aspect.
Also I really wish the book made it clearer that Helen was not the one to blame when it came to Melanie's cheating. I felt like every time we came close to "While they weren't compatible and Helen was too work oriented for Melanie, it was still Melanie's fault that she cheated and their marriage fell apart" it quickly veers into "Well, Helen was a workaholic and wasn't paying enough attention to Melanie." which erked me every time. I'd be much more forgiving of the fact if it was a 1st POV instead of the 3rd.
It made sense for Helen to be more hesitant, or out right refusing to get into a new relationship due to her workaholic tendencies being what Melanie blamed her infidelity on so I'm glad that was a part of the story. Hell, it ended up becoming the main conflict.
This isn't a romcom, and the characters are older and the relationship is les4les. If any of those are something you're into I'd say give it a go.
October 18, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC! This review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
This book is centred around a queer-owned film studio, trying to make their mark on the film industry, but when they lose their big-name director, our main character Helen needs to overcome her personal issues with director Nora, to make this movie happen.
I really enjoyed the movie making aspect of this film, it was fun and explored well. The writing really makes it feel like you’re on set.
Helen and Nora’s relationship really had you rooting for them, but my main qualm is a lot of the issues in this book could’ve been solved by basic communication. It was made clear pretty early on that Helen viewed Nora as the downfall of her marriage, yet even though they were sharing a room for a good quarter of the book this wasn’t acknowledged, apart from snipped comments and glares.
Helen viewing any mistake as a career ending failure was also a hard read. She had a lot on her plate throughout the novel; and yes she was type-A, but the lack of pivoting and immediate spiralling was frustrating.
Overall this was a fun beach read, it’s not a rom-com, but it’s all about second chances and finding love.
Synopsis:
Helen Cho, film producer and CEO of a new production company, knows that achieving her career dreams means making hard decisions. With her latest feature film in crisis, she needs a new director immediately. At the top of the very short list of replacements? The woman responsible for breaking up Helen’s marriage.
Nora Darmody’s dreams of a directing career have not panned out as she hoped. When the offer from up-and-coming Propolis Pictures falls into her lap, there’s no way she can say no, even if that means working with Helen Cho. Because the last time Nora checked, their friendship died the moment Nora moved out of her pool house.
Both their careers hang in the balance. If they’re going to work together, Helen has to ignore her angry feelings of betrayal, and Nora must dim the spotlight of attraction that glows whenever Helen reenters the frame. Can they let go of the past and trust each other again, or will old wounds and unspoken feelings derail them before the final cut?
This book is centred around a queer-owned film studio, trying to make their mark on the film industry, but when they lose their big-name director, our main character Helen needs to overcome her personal issues with director Nora, to make this movie happen.
I really enjoyed the movie making aspect of this film, it was fun and explored well. The writing really makes it feel like you’re on set.
Helen and Nora’s relationship really had you rooting for them, but my main qualm is a lot of the issues in this book could’ve been solved by basic communication. It was made clear pretty early on that Helen viewed Nora as the downfall of her marriage, yet even though they were sharing a room for a good quarter of the book this wasn’t acknowledged, apart from snipped comments and glares.
Helen viewing any mistake as a career ending failure was also a hard read. She had a lot on her plate throughout the novel; and yes she was type-A, but the lack of pivoting and immediate spiralling was frustrating.
Overall this was a fun beach read, it’s not a rom-com, but it’s all about second chances and finding love.
Synopsis:
Helen Cho, film producer and CEO of a new production company, knows that achieving her career dreams means making hard decisions. With her latest feature film in crisis, she needs a new director immediately. At the top of the very short list of replacements? The woman responsible for breaking up Helen’s marriage.
Nora Darmody’s dreams of a directing career have not panned out as she hoped. When the offer from up-and-coming Propolis Pictures falls into her lap, there’s no way she can say no, even if that means working with Helen Cho. Because the last time Nora checked, their friendship died the moment Nora moved out of her pool house.
Both their careers hang in the balance. If they’re going to work together, Helen has to ignore her angry feelings of betrayal, and Nora must dim the spotlight of attraction that glows whenever Helen reenters the frame. Can they let go of the past and trust each other again, or will old wounds and unspoken feelings derail them before the final cut?
June 3, 2026
✨ALC Review✨ - 3.5 ⭐️
Happy Pride 🏳️🌈
This story was so cute!
I really enjoyed Nora’s character. She came across as emotionally intelligent and mature, knew what she wanted, and wasn’t willing to settle for less. Helen felt a bit more immature by comparison. Maybe that was because a lot of her insecurities from her marriage were still coming through, but I just didn’t connect with her character as much. It still felt like she had some growing up to do.
Speaking of the romance, I felt like it was kind of secondary to the story for most of the book. It read more like women’s fiction with a romantic subplot than a straight romance, but honestly, I didn’t mind that.
I appreciated the twist on the workplace romance trope, especially because there wasn’t an obvious power imbalance between the two characters. And I loved the way the author handled the one-bed trope. Instead of turning it into the usual tension-filled situation, it felt sweet and wholesome, which was a nice change.
That said, for two people who value professionalism as much as these characters do, I didn’t find it very believable that they would kiss at a work event, especially when they weren’t even together yet. That was their first kiss. It felt much more realistic to me that Nora would be willing to take that risk, while Helen would be the one holding back because of the setting and the possibility of someone seeing them. Having Helen initiate it felt a little out of character.
I also didn’t love that they were still dealing with misunderstandings and struggling to communicate effectively when they’re both in their forties. Obviously communication issues can happen at any age, but it did make the relationship feel younger and less mature than I expected.
And on a completely unrelated note: “warm, like oatmeal”?? What the hell does that even mean?
The narrator did a great job, both with differentiating the character voices and bringing emotion to the performance. It definitely added to the story.
Overall, this was a fun read. I love a good sapphic romance, and despite a few things that didn’t quite work for me, I had a great time with it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for letting me listen to this one early.
Happy Pride 🏳️🌈
This story was so cute!
I really enjoyed Nora’s character. She came across as emotionally intelligent and mature, knew what she wanted, and wasn’t willing to settle for less. Helen felt a bit more immature by comparison. Maybe that was because a lot of her insecurities from her marriage were still coming through, but I just didn’t connect with her character as much. It still felt like she had some growing up to do.
Speaking of the romance, I felt like it was kind of secondary to the story for most of the book. It read more like women’s fiction with a romantic subplot than a straight romance, but honestly, I didn’t mind that.
I appreciated the twist on the workplace romance trope, especially because there wasn’t an obvious power imbalance between the two characters. And I loved the way the author handled the one-bed trope. Instead of turning it into the usual tension-filled situation, it felt sweet and wholesome, which was a nice change.
That said, for two people who value professionalism as much as these characters do, I didn’t find it very believable that they would kiss at a work event, especially when they weren’t even together yet. That was their first kiss. It felt much more realistic to me that Nora would be willing to take that risk, while Helen would be the one holding back because of the setting and the possibility of someone seeing them. Having Helen initiate it felt a little out of character.
I also didn’t love that they were still dealing with misunderstandings and struggling to communicate effectively when they’re both in their forties. Obviously communication issues can happen at any age, but it did make the relationship feel younger and less mature than I expected.
And on a completely unrelated note: “warm, like oatmeal”?? What the hell does that even mean?
The narrator did a great job, both with differentiating the character voices and bringing emotion to the performance. It definitely added to the story.
Overall, this was a fun read. I love a good sapphic romance, and despite a few things that didn’t quite work for me, I had a great time with it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for letting me listen to this one early.
July 12, 2026
I really appreciate a lot of the things that this book was trying to do. Hollywood settings are always appealing, and I liked the idea of a new indie film company that’s women-led and prioritises marginalised voices. The romance outline is good in principle, with our protagonists being slightly older than the usual romantic leads, having both lived a life, and are now re-evaluating what matters to them in a relationship.
The main problem is that I finished this book and I had no feelings towards it whatsoever. I liked the two leads but I didn’t feel any particular chemistry between them. The miscommunication felt manufactured, and their commitment to a relationship at the end felt quite rushed.
📚Blog📖YouTube📖Instagram📚
A lot of this book – and I mean a lot – was about the film they were working on, rather than the actual romance. The problem is, most of what happens on a film set is actually pretty boring. So much time was dedicated to discussing the filming schedule, or the financing, that the story quickly lost momentum.
The main character, Helen, is Korean-American, something which neither the author nor myself share with her. (I may be wrong, but that is my understanding). The very opening scene of the whole book depicts Helen being asked where she’s really from, which felt like a very well-meaning but somewhat clumsy way of introducing her ethnic background.
This felt like a book of good intentions, but it never quite materialised into something I felt really invested in. The narrator, Michelle H. Lee, did do a great job of bringing the characters and story to life.
I received a free copy for an honest review.
The main problem is that I finished this book and I had no feelings towards it whatsoever. I liked the two leads but I didn’t feel any particular chemistry between them. The miscommunication felt manufactured, and their commitment to a relationship at the end felt quite rushed.
📚Blog📖YouTube📖Instagram📚
A lot of this book – and I mean a lot – was about the film they were working on, rather than the actual romance. The problem is, most of what happens on a film set is actually pretty boring. So much time was dedicated to discussing the filming schedule, or the financing, that the story quickly lost momentum.
The main character, Helen, is Korean-American, something which neither the author nor myself share with her. (I may be wrong, but that is my understanding). The very opening scene of the whole book depicts Helen being asked where she’s really from, which felt like a very well-meaning but somewhat clumsy way of introducing her ethnic background.
This felt like a book of good intentions, but it never quite materialised into something I felt really invested in. The narrator, Michelle H. Lee, did do a great job of bringing the characters and story to life.
I received a free copy for an honest review.
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