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Lights, Camera, Love
A sizzling grumpy-meets-sunshine romance that explores the notions of belonging, trust, hope, and finding the kind of love that you never imagined you could have, from the author of Love, Just In.
'A heart-warming, slow-burn romance full of banter, chemistry and off-screen surprises. You'll fall hard for Evie and the grump she never saw coming.' Lauren Jackson, author of Break the Rules
'Natalie Murray at her sizzling best! Lights, Camera, Love swept me away from the first page.' Emma Grey, author of Pictures of You
Hip-hop dance teacher Evie Scott lands the opportunity of a lifetime when she's cast in a blockbuster movie opposite her teenage crush, Hollywood heartthrob Austin Reynolds. But the person Evie can't stop thinking about isn't Austin—it's his grumpy, sharp-tongued manager, Kye Evans.
A gifted dancer who grew up in foster care, Kye owes everything to Austin and his family. Now a skilled manager and publicist, he's spent years cleaning up Austin's messes, but it's his own past he'd rather keep buried. And the last thing he needs is a distraction like Evie.
As Evie and Kye dance their way through the chaos of the movie set, their chemistry ignites on and off the stage. Through late-night rehearsals and flirtatious dance moves, Evie and Kye's connection blossoms. But as old wounds threaten to reopen, they must decide if they're brave enough to face their fears and embrace the life-changing love they never saw coming.
'A heart-warming, slow-burn romance full of banter, chemistry and off-screen surprises. You'll fall hard for Evie and the grump she never saw coming.' Lauren Jackson, author of Break the Rules
'Natalie Murray at her sizzling best! Lights, Camera, Love swept me away from the first page.' Emma Grey, author of Pictures of You
Hip-hop dance teacher Evie Scott lands the opportunity of a lifetime when she's cast in a blockbuster movie opposite her teenage crush, Hollywood heartthrob Austin Reynolds. But the person Evie can't stop thinking about isn't Austin—it's his grumpy, sharp-tongued manager, Kye Evans.
A gifted dancer who grew up in foster care, Kye owes everything to Austin and his family. Now a skilled manager and publicist, he's spent years cleaning up Austin's messes, but it's his own past he'd rather keep buried. And the last thing he needs is a distraction like Evie.
As Evie and Kye dance their way through the chaos of the movie set, their chemistry ignites on and off the stage. Through late-night rehearsals and flirtatious dance moves, Evie and Kye's connection blossoms. But as old wounds threaten to reopen, they must decide if they're brave enough to face their fears and embrace the life-changing love they never saw coming.
416 pages, Paperback
Published July 29, 2025
16 people are currently reading
528 people want to read
About the author
Natalie Murray
9 books179 followersNatalie Murray is a bestselling author of honest, heartfelt romance. Her breakout novel, Love, Just In, was published by Allen & Unwin in January 2024, followed by Lights, Camera, Love in August 2025. Her third novel, a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance, will be published in September 2026. Natalie is also the author of a time-travel romance series that’s currently in development for television, and co-writes heartwarming rom-coms with American author Jenny Fyfe, including their small-town romances Hating the Best Man and Loving the Worst Man.
Before becoming an author, Natalie was an entertainment reporter for Sky News, where she interviewed many high-profile celebrities like Elton John, Angelina Jolie, Sylvester Stallone, Dustin Hoffman, Matt Damon, Cameron Diaz, and Jerry Seinfeld. Natalie grew up in Sydney, Australia, and is the daughter of cookbook author Eva Stovern and the late Australian football icon Les Murray.
When she's not writing books, you can find Natalie clinging to her family (literally; she's super affectionate), packing or unpacking a suitcase, making lists of things she'll never have time for because she's too busy making lists, or playing on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. You can visit Natalie at nataliemurrayauthor.com.
Before becoming an author, Natalie was an entertainment reporter for Sky News, where she interviewed many high-profile celebrities like Elton John, Angelina Jolie, Sylvester Stallone, Dustin Hoffman, Matt Damon, Cameron Diaz, and Jerry Seinfeld. Natalie grew up in Sydney, Australia, and is the daughter of cookbook author Eva Stovern and the late Australian football icon Les Murray.
When she's not writing books, you can find Natalie clinging to her family (literally; she's super affectionate), packing or unpacking a suitcase, making lists of things she'll never have time for because she's too busy making lists, or playing on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. You can visit Natalie at nataliemurrayauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
October 1, 2025
2.5 STARS
Unfortunately this book wasn't for me. I loved the premise but the execution fell flat. I found the dialogue quite cringey and unnatural. There was also waaaay too many sub plots going on that didn't really add anything to the story.
I wish we had a bigger focus on Evie & Kye to build their connection & chemistry. Their relationship felt clunky & under developed.
The constant name dropping of songs was also strange to me??
I think if you are a fan of Tessa Bailey style books then you would like this!
Unfortunately this book wasn't for me. I loved the premise but the execution fell flat. I found the dialogue quite cringey and unnatural. There was also waaaay too many sub plots going on that didn't really add anything to the story.
I wish we had a bigger focus on Evie & Kye to build their connection & chemistry. Their relationship felt clunky & under developed.
The constant name dropping of songs was also strange to me??
I think if you are a fan of Tessa Bailey style books then you would like this!
August 12, 2025
I absolutely devoured this one.
5 stars!
*applause*
Natalie Murray has created a world that feels such like our own while also getting a peek behind the proverbial showbiz curtain. Her characters are realistic and loveable - even the worst ones are so well written that the sleaze oozes off the page.
Lights, Camera, Love follows dance teacher Evie as she is cast in the next great Australian motion picture opposite her teenage crush; the one and only Austin Reynolds. What should be a fun and exciting dance movie turns into an on-set nightmare and PR fiasco... but with all the chaos comes a little calm in the enigmatic and serious Kye. But don't be fooled, this book is so much more than a pretty cover (seriously though, love the design!). Sparks fly and fizzle in this entertaining read. This Australian rom-com has depth and development and I'd love to see this story on the big screen.
*Thanks Netgalley and Allen & Unwin for the ARC*
5 stars!
*applause*
Natalie Murray has created a world that feels such like our own while also getting a peek behind the proverbial showbiz curtain. Her characters are realistic and loveable - even the worst ones are so well written that the sleaze oozes off the page.
Lights, Camera, Love follows dance teacher Evie as she is cast in the next great Australian motion picture opposite her teenage crush; the one and only Austin Reynolds. What should be a fun and exciting dance movie turns into an on-set nightmare and PR fiasco... but with all the chaos comes a little calm in the enigmatic and serious Kye. But don't be fooled, this book is so much more than a pretty cover (seriously though, love the design!). Sparks fly and fizzle in this entertaining read. This Australian rom-com has depth and development and I'd love to see this story on the big screen.
*Thanks Netgalley and Allen & Unwin for the ARC*
July 30, 2025
DNF 16%. I can’t do it.
I loved the authors previous book so much and as an Aussie who lives abroad (also working in the film industry) I had found it to be a really comforting book as it was a very accurate depiction of what living there and interacting with people is like. Of course, I can only judge this one based on what small amount of the book I’ve read, but I’ll explain why I had to DNF.
It sounds like a minor issue but why are a bunch of grown Australian adults saying phrases like ‘holy moly!’ or ‘rock the box office’? It was killing me. The writing feels so stilted, unbelievable to the point of hilarity.
No chemistry. Whatsoever.
The prologue felt like such a clunky way to start the story. You’re immediately plopped into the middle of our MC’s dance class while the MMC (who she affectionately calls ‘Grouchy’) stands in the doorway, arms crossed staring at her. She dances up to him to tell him to either join in or get lost which read very weirdly. He then, in the second class, grabs her around the waste to dance with her - he is, of course, fantastic at it even though he isn’t a professional - even though this is a hiphop class. As someone who has been to a number of hiphop classes, all I have to say is ‘What The Fuck???’.
Weird. Weird, weird, weird. Can’t do it. I wanted to love this so bad. I was really looking forwards to it.
I loved the authors previous book so much and as an Aussie who lives abroad (also working in the film industry) I had found it to be a really comforting book as it was a very accurate depiction of what living there and interacting with people is like. Of course, I can only judge this one based on what small amount of the book I’ve read, but I’ll explain why I had to DNF.
It sounds like a minor issue but why are a bunch of grown Australian adults saying phrases like ‘holy moly!’ or ‘rock the box office’? It was killing me. The writing feels so stilted, unbelievable to the point of hilarity.
No chemistry. Whatsoever.
The prologue felt like such a clunky way to start the story. You’re immediately plopped into the middle of our MC’s dance class while the MMC (who she affectionately calls ‘Grouchy’) stands in the doorway, arms crossed staring at her. She dances up to him to tell him to either join in or get lost which read very weirdly. He then, in the second class, grabs her around the waste to dance with her - he is, of course, fantastic at it even though he isn’t a professional - even though this is a hiphop class. As someone who has been to a number of hiphop classes, all I have to say is ‘What The Fuck???’.
Weird. Weird, weird, weird. Can’t do it. I wanted to love this so bad. I was really looking forwards to it.
June 15, 2025
Lights, Camera, Love is an entertainment industry romance set in Australia. This novel features Evie a successful dance teacher and Kye a manager for Austin a famous actor. This story does tackle some heavy topics like children in the foster system, absentee parents and some of the ugly sides of the entertainment industry. It was an enjoyable read and does cover multiple story lines, at times I felt the story got lost in some of those especially with Austin’s story. I think I would have liked more between Evie and Kye. It didn’t wow me however it was a great read.
I received a complementary copy from Net Galley.
I received a complementary copy from Net Galley.
August 27, 2025
Let me set the fabulous scene
🌟 grumpy x sunshine
🎥 movie setting
🩷 slow burn
🌟 romcom (with equal parts romance and hilarious comedy)
🎥 Feel good characters
🩷 Australian setting
Natalie Murray’s newest release has it all!
Evie has just received the job of a lifetime! A role in an upcoming dance movie where she will be staring alongside her teenage crush, Austin Reynolds
For the burgeoning actress and successful dance teacher could everything be finally falling into place? But then druing one of her hip hop dance classes she meets Kye, reserved, grumpy but also incredibly talented dancer. There is an air of mystery about him but he is also insanely rude and arrogant. Evie soon learns Kye is Austin’s manager.. great now she will be seeing him even more!
As production on the film begins, and Evie and Kye start to spend more time together, could their first impressions of each other been completely wrong?
Reading this wonderful book in two days, I was hooked in! The story flowed effortlessly with a mix of banter and wonderful characters, but while still covering tougher topics such a foster care, drugs, absent parents.
Very excited to see what is next for Natalie
Thank you so much @allenandunwin and @nataliemurrayauthor for my gifted review copy and for having me on the Bookstagram virtual tour.
🌟 grumpy x sunshine
🎥 movie setting
🩷 slow burn
🌟 romcom (with equal parts romance and hilarious comedy)
🎥 Feel good characters
🩷 Australian setting
Natalie Murray’s newest release has it all!
Evie has just received the job of a lifetime! A role in an upcoming dance movie where she will be staring alongside her teenage crush, Austin Reynolds
For the burgeoning actress and successful dance teacher could everything be finally falling into place? But then druing one of her hip hop dance classes she meets Kye, reserved, grumpy but also incredibly talented dancer. There is an air of mystery about him but he is also insanely rude and arrogant. Evie soon learns Kye is Austin’s manager.. great now she will be seeing him even more!
As production on the film begins, and Evie and Kye start to spend more time together, could their first impressions of each other been completely wrong?
Reading this wonderful book in two days, I was hooked in! The story flowed effortlessly with a mix of banter and wonderful characters, but while still covering tougher topics such a foster care, drugs, absent parents.
Very excited to see what is next for Natalie
Thank you so much @allenandunwin and @nataliemurrayauthor for my gifted review copy and for having me on the Bookstagram virtual tour.
May 29, 2025
Lights, Camera, Love by Natalie Murray
☀️☀️☀️⛅ (3.5 rounded down)
Big thanks to NetGalley + Allen & Unwin for this ARC copy!
This Aussie rom com felt like a book version of a Step Up movie. As someone who works in the Australian film industry it was nice to see us represented, and I'm pleased to say Murray got it pretty spot on - sleazebags included, unfortunately. The additional subplot of dance also appeals to me as a recreational dancer, so really, this book should have been absolutely perfect for me!
It definitely hit some high points in the character sense - Evie and Kye are both developed characters with distinct vibes. Evie in particular had a relatable arc, though it would have been nice to see her experience in the film world influence her career moving forward. I believed their chemistry, though I felt that the sex scenes themselves fell flat. Austin and Kye's relationship was well written and I liked the way Murray handled their dynamic throughout, and I'd say the same for Evie's with her mum. The third act complications for both characters were brilliant decisions that felt realistic to life and suited the situation - a very mature and thoughtful way to handle it.
The areas that appealed less to me are: the harassment storyline didn't hold as much gravity as I think it warranted, especially in its resolution. Kye's relationship history with a certain minor character felt brushed off in its importance. I didn't really vibe with the cutesy relationship nicknames, which felt repetitive. The epilogue was a bit too saccharine for my tastes following on from the tone of the third act.
Murray has done a lovely job of weaving together complicated characters at different stages of life into this larger than life scenario. Did it blow me away? No. Did I have a good time? You bet! It's so wonderful to see Australia represented in publishing, and Murray waves the flag well.
"Love is knowing that you can walk out the door at any moment and choose a different life, but you don't. Love is staying. Even when things get hard."
☀️☀️☀️⛅ (3.5 rounded down)
Big thanks to NetGalley + Allen & Unwin for this ARC copy!
This Aussie rom com felt like a book version of a Step Up movie. As someone who works in the Australian film industry it was nice to see us represented, and I'm pleased to say Murray got it pretty spot on - sleazebags included, unfortunately. The additional subplot of dance also appeals to me as a recreational dancer, so really, this book should have been absolutely perfect for me!
It definitely hit some high points in the character sense - Evie and Kye are both developed characters with distinct vibes. Evie in particular had a relatable arc, though it would have been nice to see her experience in the film world influence her career moving forward. I believed their chemistry, though I felt that the sex scenes themselves fell flat. Austin and Kye's relationship was well written and I liked the way Murray handled their dynamic throughout, and I'd say the same for Evie's with her mum. The third act complications for both characters were brilliant decisions that felt realistic to life and suited the situation - a very mature and thoughtful way to handle it.
The areas that appealed less to me are: the harassment storyline didn't hold as much gravity as I think it warranted, especially in its resolution. Kye's relationship history with a certain minor character felt brushed off in its importance. I didn't really vibe with the cutesy relationship nicknames, which felt repetitive. The epilogue was a bit too saccharine for my tastes following on from the tone of the third act.
Murray has done a lovely job of weaving together complicated characters at different stages of life into this larger than life scenario. Did it blow me away? No. Did I have a good time? You bet! It's so wonderful to see Australia represented in publishing, and Murray waves the flag well.
"Love is knowing that you can walk out the door at any moment and choose a different life, but you don't. Love is staying. Even when things get hard."
August 15, 2025
solid 3 stars
- the writing felt quite young and the scenes that were meant to be impactful felt disingenuous and scripted instead (funny because it’s a book based on a movie set lol).
- there is a lot going on, but nothing has been done in depth. we have austin’s experience with being queer and his struggle with that part of his life, kye with his childhood trauma from being in the foster care system and his broken relationship with his brother, and we have evie who has daddy issues. all great topics to get into, but none were delved into the way they could have been. i get that this is a romance and it doesn’t NEED to, but if you’re bringing these topics in, i feel like you can try to do it justice. everything tied up in a (somewhat) neat bow by the end.
- i enjoyed the story and the plot (for what it was). i needed something easy and light to read, and i love books 1. on a movie/theatre set, 2. related to actors in some way and the limelight, and 3. based in australia. this ticked all those boxes. it wasn’t anything crazy, shocking, or special, but if you want a fluffy romance to pass the time and as a palette cleanser then this is fine.
- kye and evie are both more mature than a lot of characters you find in romance books so that was quite refreshing. they actually communicated for the most part, and thought critically, were empathetic, understanding, and made decisions that were hard but necessary. i liked that.
- i didn’t fall in love with anyone (not even side characters, sorry rafa). everyone was just okay (contributes a perfectly mid rating of 3 stars i suppose).
- overall, i liked it, didn’t love it. if you want to pick it up, id say sure go ahead. do i think you’ll be obsessed? no. are there probably better movie set books out there? definitely. it was fun to have to based in australia though, i’ll give it that.
- the writing felt quite young and the scenes that were meant to be impactful felt disingenuous and scripted instead (funny because it’s a book based on a movie set lol).
- there is a lot going on, but nothing has been done in depth. we have austin’s experience with being queer and his struggle with that part of his life, kye with his childhood trauma from being in the foster care system and his broken relationship with his brother, and we have evie who has daddy issues. all great topics to get into, but none were delved into the way they could have been. i get that this is a romance and it doesn’t NEED to, but if you’re bringing these topics in, i feel like you can try to do it justice. everything tied up in a (somewhat) neat bow by the end.
- i enjoyed the story and the plot (for what it was). i needed something easy and light to read, and i love books 1. on a movie/theatre set, 2. related to actors in some way and the limelight, and 3. based in australia. this ticked all those boxes. it wasn’t anything crazy, shocking, or special, but if you want a fluffy romance to pass the time and as a palette cleanser then this is fine.
- kye and evie are both more mature than a lot of characters you find in romance books so that was quite refreshing. they actually communicated for the most part, and thought critically, were empathetic, understanding, and made decisions that were hard but necessary. i liked that.
- i didn’t fall in love with anyone (not even side characters, sorry rafa). everyone was just okay (contributes a perfectly mid rating of 3 stars i suppose).
- overall, i liked it, didn’t love it. if you want to pick it up, id say sure go ahead. do i think you’ll be obsessed? no. are there probably better movie set books out there? definitely. it was fun to have to based in australia though, i’ll give it that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
I came for the romance and stayed for the amazing story….
This book is so much more than your usual romcom, it has a depth that was such a pleasant surprise. It doesn’t gloss over the hard side of relationships but takes them head on.
Evie, Kye, Austin and the rest of the cast are portrayed in such an amazing way that you would be forgiven if you expected them to walk through the door at any moment. Each character flourished with their own personality but came together beautifully to entertain.
Told from dual points of view of Evie and Kye, Lights, Camera, Love takes you on a journey through the ups and downs of love, family, romantic crushes, secret loves, and the difficult and sometimes seedy side of the movie making business.
The light banter and the chemistry between the characters had me captivated from the very beginning of the book. Several times I was stunned and lost for words at the events that took place and found myself even more invested as the story unfolded.
Now I’m not going to tell you that everything is roses and sunshine the entire time, but what I will tell you is that Natalie has gone above and beyond to create a story that is extremely entertaining, and that will leave you wanting it not to end so you can stay in this world for a little bit longer.
Lights, Camera, Love is a heart-warming romance that I highly recommend. Do yourself a favour, grab a copy and join Evie, Kye and the crew in a dance or two.
Thank you Natalie Murray and Allen & Unwin for my ARC and the opportunity to take part in the Bookstagram Tour.
Publication date | 29 July 2025
#lightscameralove
#nataliemurray
#hiphopromance
#allenandunwin
This book is so much more than your usual romcom, it has a depth that was such a pleasant surprise. It doesn’t gloss over the hard side of relationships but takes them head on.
Evie, Kye, Austin and the rest of the cast are portrayed in such an amazing way that you would be forgiven if you expected them to walk through the door at any moment. Each character flourished with their own personality but came together beautifully to entertain.
Told from dual points of view of Evie and Kye, Lights, Camera, Love takes you on a journey through the ups and downs of love, family, romantic crushes, secret loves, and the difficult and sometimes seedy side of the movie making business.
The light banter and the chemistry between the characters had me captivated from the very beginning of the book. Several times I was stunned and lost for words at the events that took place and found myself even more invested as the story unfolded.
Now I’m not going to tell you that everything is roses and sunshine the entire time, but what I will tell you is that Natalie has gone above and beyond to create a story that is extremely entertaining, and that will leave you wanting it not to end so you can stay in this world for a little bit longer.
Lights, Camera, Love is a heart-warming romance that I highly recommend. Do yourself a favour, grab a copy and join Evie, Kye and the crew in a dance or two.
Thank you Natalie Murray and Allen & Unwin for my ARC and the opportunity to take part in the Bookstagram Tour.
Publication date | 29 July 2025
#lightscameralove
#nataliemurray
#hiphopromance
#allenandunwin
August 17, 2025
This was a cute romance with more depth than I was expecting!
Evie is a dance teacher and she’s just landed a lead role in a major movie starring alongside her teenage crush Austin Reynolds. Surely they’ll have to fall in love working so closely together, but then Evie meets his manager Kye, and he’s the one she can’t get out of her head. Evie dubs him ‘Groucho’ but she doesn’t know about Kye’s difficult upbringing and that he feels he owes everything to Austin. However as they spend more time together they realise there’s something between them, but will they give their relationship a chance?
I liked this, but I didn’t love it. For the most part it was a fun romance, and I enjoyed getting to know about the pasts of Evie and Kye, but there were little things that annoyed me. Some of the dialogue felt really immature, but then the themes were somewhat heavy so it just felt a bit disconnected at times. I also found the spicy scenes a bit cringe, but I also think maybe that was kinda the point? I’m not sure. To be completely fair though I think any book I read after my last wonderful read would’ve felt a bit meh, as is normal for me when I’ve read something I loved so much! I also read an ARC so perhaps edits were made before the final copies went to print. This does cover some harder themes aside from the romance too such as foster care, loved ones in prison, absent fathers and inappropriate sexual advances. Overall I did still think this was a good read, and I’ll defs keep my eyes peeled for future books by this author! Thanks to @allenandunwinnz for sending this my way!
Evie is a dance teacher and she’s just landed a lead role in a major movie starring alongside her teenage crush Austin Reynolds. Surely they’ll have to fall in love working so closely together, but then Evie meets his manager Kye, and he’s the one she can’t get out of her head. Evie dubs him ‘Groucho’ but she doesn’t know about Kye’s difficult upbringing and that he feels he owes everything to Austin. However as they spend more time together they realise there’s something between them, but will they give their relationship a chance?
I liked this, but I didn’t love it. For the most part it was a fun romance, and I enjoyed getting to know about the pasts of Evie and Kye, but there were little things that annoyed me. Some of the dialogue felt really immature, but then the themes were somewhat heavy so it just felt a bit disconnected at times. I also found the spicy scenes a bit cringe, but I also think maybe that was kinda the point? I’m not sure. To be completely fair though I think any book I read after my last wonderful read would’ve felt a bit meh, as is normal for me when I’ve read something I loved so much! I also read an ARC so perhaps edits were made before the final copies went to print. This does cover some harder themes aside from the romance too such as foster care, loved ones in prison, absent fathers and inappropriate sexual advances. Overall I did still think this was a good read, and I’ll defs keep my eyes peeled for future books by this author! Thanks to @allenandunwinnz for sending this my way!
June 8, 2025
Lights, Camera, Love is exactly the type of book I was in the mood for this weekend. Fun, mostly lighthearted and easy to read, so much so that I finished it in two days. I loved the writing style, and I really enjoyed the two main characters of Kye and Evie.
What won me over in this book was the backstories of both the main characters, and how they had to work to overcome issues in their past. Some of the topics were a little heavier, such as Kye's experiences in the foster care system, but they didn't eclipse the rest of the story.
It wasn't quite a five star read for me because the book did have it's clunkier moments, especially as the characters were realising their attraction to one another. I would have loved a slower progression to the romance, but that could come down to my own personal preference, because I really love a slow burn love story. I also did think sometimes the story veered into slightly melodramatic territory with some of the plotlines.
If you are a romance reader, especially one who loves books with Australian settings, I think you will really enjoy this one! Definitely check it out when you can 🙂
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Allen and Unwin for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What won me over in this book was the backstories of both the main characters, and how they had to work to overcome issues in their past. Some of the topics were a little heavier, such as Kye's experiences in the foster care system, but they didn't eclipse the rest of the story.
It wasn't quite a five star read for me because the book did have it's clunkier moments, especially as the characters were realising their attraction to one another. I would have loved a slower progression to the romance, but that could come down to my own personal preference, because I really love a slow burn love story. I also did think sometimes the story veered into slightly melodramatic territory with some of the plotlines.
If you are a romance reader, especially one who loves books with Australian settings, I think you will really enjoy this one! Definitely check it out when you can 🙂
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Allen and Unwin for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 4, 2025
Hip-hop dance teacher Evie Scott lands the opportunity of a lifetime when she's cast in a blockbuster movie opposite her teenage crush, Hollywood heartthrob Austin Reynolds. But the person Evie can't stop thinking about isn't Austin—it's his grumpy, sharp-tongued manager, Kye Evans.
Ok I’m totally picturing this on the big screen with hip hop sequences just like the Step-Up movies (bring in the rain/water setting, the smoke and mirror and other props)! This was such a fun rom-com, with grumpy x sunshine trope and movie-making as the setting.
While a bit lighter than Natalie Murray’s previous book, this book still broached an underlying deeper story about longing and acceptance - a universal topic that’d be relatable to most audience. So in between funny scenes, I liked Evie and Kye’s character growths (in their own manners), and how they overcame their own individual insecurities to be a better person for each other.
I really enjoyed this, and would highly recommend if you need a feel-good read!
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
Ok I’m totally picturing this on the big screen with hip hop sequences just like the Step-Up movies (bring in the rain/water setting, the smoke and mirror and other props)! This was such a fun rom-com, with grumpy x sunshine trope and movie-making as the setting.
While a bit lighter than Natalie Murray’s previous book, this book still broached an underlying deeper story about longing and acceptance - a universal topic that’d be relatable to most audience. So in between funny scenes, I liked Evie and Kye’s character growths (in their own manners), and how they overcame their own individual insecurities to be a better person for each other.
I really enjoyed this, and would highly recommend if you need a feel-good read!
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
July 29, 2025
‘Lights, Camera, Love’ is a grumpy sunshine romance packed with heart, happiness, and hip-hop.
It follows dance teacher Evie Scott, as she’s cast in a blockbuster movie alongside her teenage crush turned Hollywood heartthrob. When she arrives on set for filming, Evie can’t deny how attractive she still finds the now world-famous actor - but it’s his burnt-out manager Kye that ends up stealing the show.
This is the definition of a fun read, and if it wasn’t already obvious: I enjoyed it!
Kye and Evie have great chemistry, but also inspiring backstories - and I loved the behind the scenes look at the entertainment industry. If I wasn’t bopping along to the amazing song references, I was kicking my feet at the banter, or swooning along with the romance - and it never gets old, reading stories set in Australia.
That isn’t to say this is an entirely easygoing read - while this is mostly light-hearted, there are some darker themes and emotional scenes. But the depth is what drew me in the most, and it’s delivered with the perfect balance.
Thank you Natalie and Allen & Unwin for my arc via Netgalley. I knew I’d like this, given how much I loved ‘Love, Just In’ - and yep, it’s now firmly added on my list of romance recommendations!
It follows dance teacher Evie Scott, as she’s cast in a blockbuster movie alongside her teenage crush turned Hollywood heartthrob. When she arrives on set for filming, Evie can’t deny how attractive she still finds the now world-famous actor - but it’s his burnt-out manager Kye that ends up stealing the show.
This is the definition of a fun read, and if it wasn’t already obvious: I enjoyed it!
Kye and Evie have great chemistry, but also inspiring backstories - and I loved the behind the scenes look at the entertainment industry. If I wasn’t bopping along to the amazing song references, I was kicking my feet at the banter, or swooning along with the romance - and it never gets old, reading stories set in Australia.
That isn’t to say this is an entirely easygoing read - while this is mostly light-hearted, there are some darker themes and emotional scenes. But the depth is what drew me in the most, and it’s delivered with the perfect balance.
Thank you Natalie and Allen & Unwin for my arc via Netgalley. I knew I’d like this, given how much I loved ‘Love, Just In’ - and yep, it’s now firmly added on my list of romance recommendations!
July 26, 2025
This was such a fun read with a mixture of humour and interesting characters. What I love about Murray’s contemporary romance books is she likes to explore themes that bring emotional depth to a story. The main characters in this story are dealing with childhood trauma and abandonment issues.
Evie and Kye meet through a hip hop dance class and their relationship grows as they deal working on a movie together. Throw in some interesting side plots, forced proximity, conflict and open-door spice and you have an engaging read.
I’ve always had an interest in learning about what goes on behind the scenes of a movie, so I enjoyed the setting, and it was great to see some local sights.
Thank you, NetGalley and Allen & Unwin, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Evie and Kye meet through a hip hop dance class and their relationship grows as they deal working on a movie together. Throw in some interesting side plots, forced proximity, conflict and open-door spice and you have an engaging read.
I’ve always had an interest in learning about what goes on behind the scenes of a movie, so I enjoyed the setting, and it was great to see some local sights.
Thank you, NetGalley and Allen & Unwin, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2025
Firstly thank you Natalie Murray, Allen & Unwin and Netgalley for my review copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is my second read of Murray’s, I absolutely adored Love, Just in .
Lights, Camera, Love follows Evie a successful dance teacher (Think Jessica Alba in Honey), who gets the opportunity to star in a dance movie alongside her ultimate crush Austin Reynolds. Meet Kye aka Groucho- Austin’s manager, he is broody and jaded and trying to keep Austin in line.
This novel focuses on the entertainment industry, including the ugly sides. It also explores difficult subjects, such as abandonment issues, foster system and being raised by absent parents.
I feel like this book didn’t wow me over all, but I really enjoyed reading it! I felt the last third really picked up in pace and the plot and i felt more engaged.
I definitely will continue to support Natalie’s writing and read her future works!
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨/5
This is my second read of Murray’s, I absolutely adored Love, Just in .
Lights, Camera, Love follows Evie a successful dance teacher (Think Jessica Alba in Honey), who gets the opportunity to star in a dance movie alongside her ultimate crush Austin Reynolds. Meet Kye aka Groucho- Austin’s manager, he is broody and jaded and trying to keep Austin in line.
This novel focuses on the entertainment industry, including the ugly sides. It also explores difficult subjects, such as abandonment issues, foster system and being raised by absent parents.
I feel like this book didn’t wow me over all, but I really enjoyed reading it! I felt the last third really picked up in pace and the plot and i felt more engaged.
I definitely will continue to support Natalie’s writing and read her future works!
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨/5
July 18, 2025
This was a fun grumpy x sunshine romance filled with loveable and some not so loveable characters. Whilst it was light hearted for the most part, it still dealt with some heavy topics like foster care, absentee parents and the darker side of the entertainment industry. I loved Evie as a character and her ability to keep a positive outlook on life, and Kye filled the role of a grump with a heart of gold perfectly. Austin just annoyed me especially with his constant need for everything to be about him and his misused metaphors but I'm glad someone found those endearing in the end.
Overall, this was definitely an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next from Natalie.
Overall, this was definitely an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next from Natalie.
September 30, 2025
Lights, Camera, Love | Natalie Murray
Ahhh I finally got around to reading this fun romance! My plan was to read this as a part of Aussie August but life happened so Aussie September it is!
Lights, Camera, Love follows Evie a dancer who lands her first roll in a movie, and Kye who is her co stars producer!
I enjoyed this read! It was fun and I loved the setting of the movie set. I did enjoy Austin’s storyline as well. And I wish I could go into that more but I’m a spoiler free reviewer!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ahhh I finally got around to reading this fun romance! My plan was to read this as a part of Aussie August but life happened so Aussie September it is!
Lights, Camera, Love follows Evie a dancer who lands her first roll in a movie, and Kye who is her co stars producer!
I enjoyed this read! It was fun and I loved the setting of the movie set. I did enjoy Austin’s storyline as well. And I wish I could go into that more but I’m a spoiler free reviewer!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 23, 2025
“Love doesn’t stop the hard moments from coming. But it helps carry you through them. Love she always excitement and passion and fireworks; it’s very still-like the quiet, steady bears between the chorus.” “Love is knowing that you can walk out the door at any moment and choose a different life, but you don’t. Love is staying. Even when things get hard.”
This book was so cute and such an enjoyable read!!
Thank you eternally Allen & Unwin for sending me an ARC copy!! 🫶🫶
This book was so cute and such an enjoyable read!!
Thank you eternally Allen & Unwin for sending me an ARC copy!! 🫶🫶
August 3, 2025
I loved Kye and Evie’s story. The pain and the trauma from their childhoods and how they shaped them into the adults they are now. The strength that it took them to step away and focus on their past and learn things that they needed to be better partners to each other.
Loved them so much.
The narrators were great!
Loved them so much.
The narrators were great!
September 3, 2025
This was ok, but after Murray's first book, I expected to like it more. There were so many characters and behaviours that I found irritating, eg. Austin's "quirk" of getting metaphors wrong, Evie calling her dance class members by the stupid nicknames she made up etc. I liked the back stories of Kye and Evie and most of the side stories were ok so I cant really put my finger on why I didn't enjoy this much. 3.5 stars rounded down.
September 1, 2025
While I did enjoy this book and would definitely recommend it to others, it did take me a while to really get into. It had all the elements I should love in a book, particularly the dancing, I just found it fell a little bit flat.. However, in saying that the book was enjoyable enough but perhaps something that won’t be sticking with me. 3.75⭐️
This book was kindly gifted to me by the team at Allen & Unwin.
This book was kindly gifted to me by the team at Allen & Unwin.
October 28, 2025
I thought it was a refreshing romance - you know what you're getting but doesn't follow all the cliches you expect
August 10, 2025
I love a book set in Australia, add in dancing and its a win win for me! But I'm still feeling very mixed about this book. There was quite a few things I didn't gel with and I felt like it could have been much shorter.
Evie is a dance teacher who bags a leading role in a new Aussie dance style rom com alongside her childhood crush Austin. Kye is Austins manager, a grumpy guy who ins’t sure he wants to be in the star business industry for much longer. Whilst the three of them work closely together on the movie, Evie soon realises maybe her teenage crush isn’t the one she wants to steel her heart.
The immediate tension with the grumping sunshine trope grabbed me. I really liked how this was such a light hearted romance but still managed to tackle some heavier themes like broken families and parental abandonment with care.
I love how cringe worthy the movie being made was, I was constantly giggling at the way the main characters themselves continued to take the piss out of it. Austin definitely isn’t the heart throb Evie dreamt of growing up. Natalie painted his character exactly how I imagined your young crush would end up turning out, a bit cringe, self centred and quite frankly an idiot.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and Natalie Murray for the ARC
Evie is a dance teacher who bags a leading role in a new Aussie dance style rom com alongside her childhood crush Austin. Kye is Austins manager, a grumpy guy who ins’t sure he wants to be in the star business industry for much longer. Whilst the three of them work closely together on the movie, Evie soon realises maybe her teenage crush isn’t the one she wants to steel her heart.
The immediate tension with the grumping sunshine trope grabbed me. I really liked how this was such a light hearted romance but still managed to tackle some heavier themes like broken families and parental abandonment with care.
I love how cringe worthy the movie being made was, I was constantly giggling at the way the main characters themselves continued to take the piss out of it. Austin definitely isn’t the heart throb Evie dreamt of growing up. Natalie painted his character exactly how I imagined your young crush would end up turning out, a bit cringe, self centred and quite frankly an idiot.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and Natalie Murray for the ARC
August 15, 2025
This was such a cute read! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book set in the movie world before, but I really enjoyed it. The behind-the-scenes glimpse into film life added such a fun twist to this read.
I adored the slow burn connection between Kye and Evie.. or as he calls her… Firefly 🫠 Like seriously? Swoon. He’s the grump, she’s the sunshine, and their chemistry is everything.
Despite both having difficult pasts, the way they come together, support each other, and face their fears is truly beautiful. It’s heartfelt, romantic, and just the right amount of swoon.
If you love a good grumpy x sunshine trope with a cinematic twist, definitely add this to your TBR! 🎥💘
I adored the slow burn connection between Kye and Evie.. or as he calls her… Firefly 🫠 Like seriously? Swoon. He’s the grump, she’s the sunshine, and their chemistry is everything.
Despite both having difficult pasts, the way they come together, support each other, and face their fears is truly beautiful. It’s heartfelt, romantic, and just the right amount of swoon.
If you love a good grumpy x sunshine trope with a cinematic twist, definitely add this to your TBR! 🎥💘
July 28, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into Evie and Kye's story. It was heartfelt, steamy and unputdownable. I loved Love, Just In and Lights, Camera, Love was the perfect follow up. Can't wait to read Natalie's next book.
August 24, 2025
Storyline: 4/10
Boy: 6/10
Girl: 5/10
Lovestory: 3/10
Comments: Evie is a hip hop dance teacher, who also wants to finally get her breakthrough acting role (even though in the end, she says she doesn’t like acting and being in the spotlight - ok because being a dancer is different??). She gets cast in a movie, but basically only for her looks and because she can dance - the director is making indecent comments from the beginning, which she just kind of accepts (I like a slightly „stronger“/more vocal fmc). Her fellow cast member is Austin, her teenage crush (which she states multiple times, but other than that it really doesn’t become visible at all. I think they could have played more with that), whose manager Kye, loves to dance as well. kye and Evie kind of have a thing going on but given that Austin told Kye he likes her, kye wants to stay low. He admits to Evie: Austin was married and under the influence of drugs, kye made out with her, which broke Ryan. It’s even worse because Austin’s parents fostered eye, so his feeling of dependence is very strong. Austin and Evie start a PR relationship to promote their movie, but Evie isn’t feeling it. Kye and she hook up after the wrap party that Austin misses out on. Evie figures out that Austin is in love with Kye and Kye and Austin also have a talk where he admits it and K has to shut him down. Even though technically K und Evie could be together now, K decides to accept a job offer in Melbourne as he doesn’t want to be Austin’s manager anymore. He said he needs to go to therapy and work on him (he also has a brother who is in jail, where he feels like he abandoned him). Evie never met her dad, a big actor in LA because her mom claims he didn’t want her. Her dad finally contacts her and says her mom slept with many men and he just wanted a paternity test. He also helps that her movie gets a new and better director. Fast forward one year: she has a relationship with her dad, Austin is dating Evie’s best friend Rafa, who will to to la with him, so Evie is taking over his dance studio, her mom is finally in a long-term relationship and k is coming back, saying he worked on himself and loves her, so if Evie wants him, he will stay. She also loves him - ofc.
The main couple kind of had the „love on first sight“ vibe, which I don’t love, some cool topics on the side, that weren’t developed as much as I hoped
I was missing some emotions, I felt the story was told in a very flat way. Some of the dialogue felt really immature, but then the themes were somewhat heavy so it just felt a bit disconnected at times. And all of the wrong sayings- I was getting so annoyed.
Boy: 6/10
Girl: 5/10
Lovestory: 3/10
Comments: Evie is a hip hop dance teacher, who also wants to finally get her breakthrough acting role (even though in the end, she says she doesn’t like acting and being in the spotlight - ok because being a dancer is different??). She gets cast in a movie, but basically only for her looks and because she can dance - the director is making indecent comments from the beginning, which she just kind of accepts (I like a slightly „stronger“/more vocal fmc). Her fellow cast member is Austin, her teenage crush (which she states multiple times, but other than that it really doesn’t become visible at all. I think they could have played more with that), whose manager Kye, loves to dance as well. kye and Evie kind of have a thing going on but given that Austin told Kye he likes her, kye wants to stay low. He admits to Evie: Austin was married and under the influence of drugs, kye made out with her, which broke Ryan. It’s even worse because Austin’s parents fostered eye, so his feeling of dependence is very strong. Austin and Evie start a PR relationship to promote their movie, but Evie isn’t feeling it. Kye and she hook up after the wrap party that Austin misses out on. Evie figures out that Austin is in love with Kye and Kye and Austin also have a talk where he admits it and K has to shut him down. Even though technically K und Evie could be together now, K decides to accept a job offer in Melbourne as he doesn’t want to be Austin’s manager anymore. He said he needs to go to therapy and work on him (he also has a brother who is in jail, where he feels like he abandoned him). Evie never met her dad, a big actor in LA because her mom claims he didn’t want her. Her dad finally contacts her and says her mom slept with many men and he just wanted a paternity test. He also helps that her movie gets a new and better director. Fast forward one year: she has a relationship with her dad, Austin is dating Evie’s best friend Rafa, who will to to la with him, so Evie is taking over his dance studio, her mom is finally in a long-term relationship and k is coming back, saying he worked on himself and loves her, so if Evie wants him, he will stay. She also loves him - ofc.
The main couple kind of had the „love on first sight“ vibe, which I don’t love, some cool topics on the side, that weren’t developed as much as I hoped
I was missing some emotions, I felt the story was told in a very flat way. Some of the dialogue felt really immature, but then the themes were somewhat heavy so it just felt a bit disconnected at times. And all of the wrong sayings- I was getting so annoyed.
July 16, 2025
What a super cute story!! It has everything one needs to make a romcom happen, meet cutes, grumpy sexy trauma filled hot man, cute female with daddy issues, a hot superstar, film sets, and ofcourse a gay best friend. Yes there are aspects of the book which are definitely cliches, but come on, who doesn’t want to enjoy a cliched sweet love story?
Evie, a dancer, and the daughter of a famous father who left to build his career when her mother was pregnancy is struggling to make ends meet. When somehow thanks to her father’s gene, she ends up bagging a role in an upcoming feature film with one of the hottest Australian film star, who also happens to be her teenage crush. But someone tagging with Austin, catches her eye and suddenly the world doesn’t seem so scary anymore.
Austin, a star, with a dark past of drugs and alcohol wanting to make his name famous again with this movie. He needs everything to work so that he can get back to LA and restart his career. But his vengeful ex, has secrets about him that if it gets out, may cost him his entire reputation and career. But whatever his ex has on him, he may be hiding something even bigger.
Kye, the grumpy brooding best friend and manager of Austin, who doesn’t understand how Evie is always happy. But as they start to work together, he figures out, that there’s a lot of pain hiding behind the smiles and suddenly the ground beneath his feet vanishes and he falls.
Three people, brought together by a movie, what will happen then their lives take turns towards the biggest drama of their lives? Will they overcome the past and find happiness?
This was truly such an enjoyable read. It starts off slow to build the characters and their storyline. But then after a few chapters you get hooked. The banter is funny, it’s peak cinema! Just a tiny tip, like me, don’t start judging the characters just yet! Loved it!
Thank you Allen and Unwin for sending this physical ARC for me to read before the world in the cutest package.
Evie, a dancer, and the daughter of a famous father who left to build his career when her mother was pregnancy is struggling to make ends meet. When somehow thanks to her father’s gene, she ends up bagging a role in an upcoming feature film with one of the hottest Australian film star, who also happens to be her teenage crush. But someone tagging with Austin, catches her eye and suddenly the world doesn’t seem so scary anymore.
Austin, a star, with a dark past of drugs and alcohol wanting to make his name famous again with this movie. He needs everything to work so that he can get back to LA and restart his career. But his vengeful ex, has secrets about him that if it gets out, may cost him his entire reputation and career. But whatever his ex has on him, he may be hiding something even bigger.
Kye, the grumpy brooding best friend and manager of Austin, who doesn’t understand how Evie is always happy. But as they start to work together, he figures out, that there’s a lot of pain hiding behind the smiles and suddenly the ground beneath his feet vanishes and he falls.
Three people, brought together by a movie, what will happen then their lives take turns towards the biggest drama of their lives? Will they overcome the past and find happiness?
This was truly such an enjoyable read. It starts off slow to build the characters and their storyline. But then after a few chapters you get hooked. The banter is funny, it’s peak cinema! Just a tiny tip, like me, don’t start judging the characters just yet! Loved it!
Thank you Allen and Unwin for sending this physical ARC for me to read before the world in the cutest package.
August 24, 2025
Thank you so much Allen & Unwin Australia for the gifted physical copy in exchange for an honest review!
Light-hearted, funny and meaningful.
Evie Scott has always resented her father for not wanting anything to do with her. Ever since he found out that Evie’s mother was pregnant with Evie, he’s steered clear of the pair and lived his best life in Hollywood, not knowing the name of his daughter.
At 27, Evie has always tried to prove that she’s more than a girl without a father. She spends her time teaching dance at the local studio and loves her quiet life. But her mother has struggled for years since the breakup, and has since lived on the bare minimum, with Evie having to offer her mother a room to stay in.
When Evie’s offered a lead role in an upcoming rom-com, she snatches up the opportunity to prove that she’s more than the baby her father never wanted. And better yet, her childhood crush Austin Reynolds is the leading male actor. Will Evie finally get the romance she’s been wanting since her teen years?
What Evie doesn’t expect is to have an immediate connection to Kye - Austin’s manager. The pair start spending more time around each other with dress fittings and filming the movie, and Evie begins to feel something deep for Kye. But she and Kye both have their own demons. Will they be able to work things out so they can be together? Or will Evie lose the one person she feels like she’s waited her whole life for?
This was fun and fast-paced, but Buzz - the director for the movie - was such a creep and his ‘artistic direction’ was beyond a joke. I feel like if his character hadn’t of gotten as much ‘screen time’ as he did, it would’ve been a bit more enjoyable! In saying this, I flew through the pages and couldn’t wait to find out how Evie and Kye’s story would end!
Perfect for fans of a fast-paced romance full of longing, love and the importance of staying true to who you are.
Light-hearted, funny and meaningful.
Evie Scott has always resented her father for not wanting anything to do with her. Ever since he found out that Evie’s mother was pregnant with Evie, he’s steered clear of the pair and lived his best life in Hollywood, not knowing the name of his daughter.
At 27, Evie has always tried to prove that she’s more than a girl without a father. She spends her time teaching dance at the local studio and loves her quiet life. But her mother has struggled for years since the breakup, and has since lived on the bare minimum, with Evie having to offer her mother a room to stay in.
When Evie’s offered a lead role in an upcoming rom-com, she snatches up the opportunity to prove that she’s more than the baby her father never wanted. And better yet, her childhood crush Austin Reynolds is the leading male actor. Will Evie finally get the romance she’s been wanting since her teen years?
What Evie doesn’t expect is to have an immediate connection to Kye - Austin’s manager. The pair start spending more time around each other with dress fittings and filming the movie, and Evie begins to feel something deep for Kye. But she and Kye both have their own demons. Will they be able to work things out so they can be together? Or will Evie lose the one person she feels like she’s waited her whole life for?
This was fun and fast-paced, but Buzz - the director for the movie - was such a creep and his ‘artistic direction’ was beyond a joke. I feel like if his character hadn’t of gotten as much ‘screen time’ as he did, it would’ve been a bit more enjoyable! In saying this, I flew through the pages and couldn’t wait to find out how Evie and Kye’s story would end!
Perfect for fans of a fast-paced romance full of longing, love and the importance of staying true to who you are.
July 18, 2025
💌 What I Loved
The characters both start out broken in different ways, carrying emotional wounds and issues that affect every part of their lives. This book is a little heavier compared to what I expected. It touches on heavy topics, but in a way that feels real and necessary.
I can’t deny how good the chemistry is between Kye and Evie. The tension, connection and the way they looked at each other- that unspoken silence was everything!! It felt intimate in a way that words couldn’t describe. And the spice? so well written and it was emotionally earned. This book reminded me of that line “you need to fix yourself first, so you don’t bleed on those who didn’t cut you”. One of the most powerful messages it carries is that no one else can fix you but yourself. What stayed with me the most was Kye. I fell in love with his character!! He is flawed, genuine, and healing. If I could hug him, I absolutely would!!
There is also a lot of dance throughout the story, which adds a unique rhythm and energy. And the plot twist? It caught me off guard in the best way possible and kept me completely hooked. Like I didn’t see it coming AT ALL.
💌 What I Didn’t Love
Some of the dialogue felt a bit off, which pulled me away from the emotions I was hoping to feel. In addition, the idea of filming an entire movie in just two weeks also felt pretty unrealistic and it made it harder to stay fully invested in the plot. Lastly, I wish there was more romance and genuine connection between Kye and Evie. The emotional weight of the story was so heavy at times that it felt like the softer, more intimate moments between them got lost.
Love is staying though… 🩷
Thank you Allen & Unwin for being generous enough to send me an ARC! 🥺
The characters both start out broken in different ways, carrying emotional wounds and issues that affect every part of their lives. This book is a little heavier compared to what I expected. It touches on heavy topics, but in a way that feels real and necessary.
I can’t deny how good the chemistry is between Kye and Evie. The tension, connection and the way they looked at each other- that unspoken silence was everything!! It felt intimate in a way that words couldn’t describe. And the spice? so well written and it was emotionally earned. This book reminded me of that line “you need to fix yourself first, so you don’t bleed on those who didn’t cut you”. One of the most powerful messages it carries is that no one else can fix you but yourself. What stayed with me the most was Kye. I fell in love with his character!! He is flawed, genuine, and healing. If I could hug him, I absolutely would!!
There is also a lot of dance throughout the story, which adds a unique rhythm and energy. And the plot twist? It caught me off guard in the best way possible and kept me completely hooked. Like I didn’t see it coming AT ALL.
💌 What I Didn’t Love
Some of the dialogue felt a bit off, which pulled me away from the emotions I was hoping to feel. In addition, the idea of filming an entire movie in just two weeks also felt pretty unrealistic and it made it harder to stay fully invested in the plot. Lastly, I wish there was more romance and genuine connection between Kye and Evie. The emotional weight of the story was so heavy at times that it felt like the softer, more intimate moments between them got lost.
Love is staying though… 🩷
Thank you Allen & Unwin for being generous enough to send me an ARC! 🥺
November 19, 2025
Not gonna lie I was a little bit let down by this book given that I loved her previous title: Love, Just In so much. But this is vastly different.
The story follows Evie, Kye and Austin. Evie is a professional dancer whose ultra famous actor father is out of the picture. Austin is a washed up actor who wants to make a comeback post drug rehab. Kye is Austin's manager and also his best friend who grew up with Austin's parents due to being a foster child. They all get signed up to a movie that can change their lives if its a total hit.
Plot: This was all over the place honestly. While this big movie is in production, each of the characters have their own story to tell. Evie is dealing with her mother who lives with her and brings a man home every night as well as running her dance studio. Austin has a crazy stalker ex wife and is not even that great of a guy and needs this job more than anyone. Kye has a brother separated by the foster system who is in prison. None of these are really addressed properly or with the depth I was expected from such an amazing author who has done so before. There is a lot going on and the story constantly switches from one story to another with too many plots going on.
Writing: I found the writing lacking. The conversations and banter were very forced in a sense that the way each of the characters spoke to each other were unnatural. There were a lot of cringe moments written in and references to things in real life which didn't fit the ages of the characters. It also didn't flow very well. *SPOILERS out of context* "oh yeah do you like this banana"
Romance: The romance was honestly a little bit frustrating. With a sort of love triangle going on except Austin and Kye both like Evie and Evie likes Kye. Except both the guys are talking about who should have her without even letting her have a say at all which goes on for far too long. And then Austin getting jealous when they have a lot of chemistry together when in the end *SPOILER* Austin comes out as gay and says he's had a crush on Kye for a very long time hence the jealousy. This didn't really make sense on so many levels as he was still pining after Evie when Kye wasn't around and it's a bit odd of a concept when there were no signs indicated throughout the book that this was the case. Even so I was hoping for more depth regarding his sexuality and for Austin to come to an understanding regarding his feelings and how his actions have affected others. This was sort of brushed over when I felt this was a a point of great character development to be had.
The story follows Evie, Kye and Austin. Evie is a professional dancer whose ultra famous actor father is out of the picture. Austin is a washed up actor who wants to make a comeback post drug rehab. Kye is Austin's manager and also his best friend who grew up with Austin's parents due to being a foster child. They all get signed up to a movie that can change their lives if its a total hit.
Plot: This was all over the place honestly. While this big movie is in production, each of the characters have their own story to tell. Evie is dealing with her mother who lives with her and brings a man home every night as well as running her dance studio. Austin has a crazy stalker ex wife and is not even that great of a guy and needs this job more than anyone. Kye has a brother separated by the foster system who is in prison. None of these are really addressed properly or with the depth I was expected from such an amazing author who has done so before. There is a lot going on and the story constantly switches from one story to another with too many plots going on.
Writing: I found the writing lacking. The conversations and banter were very forced in a sense that the way each of the characters spoke to each other were unnatural. There were a lot of cringe moments written in and references to things in real life which didn't fit the ages of the characters. It also didn't flow very well. *SPOILERS out of context* "oh yeah do you like this banana"
Romance: The romance was honestly a little bit frustrating. With a sort of love triangle going on except Austin and Kye both like Evie and Evie likes Kye. Except both the guys are talking about who should have her without even letting her have a say at all which goes on for far too long. And then Austin getting jealous when they have a lot of chemistry together when in the end *SPOILER* Austin comes out as gay and says he's had a crush on Kye for a very long time hence the jealousy. This didn't really make sense on so many levels as he was still pining after Evie when Kye wasn't around and it's a bit odd of a concept when there were no signs indicated throughout the book that this was the case. Even so I was hoping for more depth regarding his sexuality and for Austin to come to an understanding regarding his feelings and how his actions have affected others. This was sort of brushed over when I felt this was a a point of great character development to be had.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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