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Closed Set
Adam Dover’s first big role should have been play the part, hit his marks, survive the spotlight. Then he meets his co-star.
Lance Prescott is a household name—commanding, magnetic, impossible to ignore. On set, he pushes Adam harder than anyone ever has. Off set, he’s just as relentless. Their banter turns sharp, their rehearsals blur into something charged, and the camera isn’t the only one catching fire.
What begins as a professional clash turns into undeniable chemistry. Every glance, every line, every touch threatens to spill past the script. The closer they get, the more Adam realizes this isn’t just performance—it’s something real, something that could change the course of his life and career.
But in a world where the press is watching, where every red carpet hides a thousand questions, Adam and Lance must decide how much of their truth they’re willing to share.
Lance Prescott is a household name—commanding, magnetic, impossible to ignore. On set, he pushes Adam harder than anyone ever has. Off set, he’s just as relentless. Their banter turns sharp, their rehearsals blur into something charged, and the camera isn’t the only one catching fire.
What begins as a professional clash turns into undeniable chemistry. Every glance, every line, every touch threatens to spill past the script. The closer they get, the more Adam realizes this isn’t just performance—it’s something real, something that could change the course of his life and career.
But in a world where the press is watching, where every red carpet hides a thousand questions, Adam and Lance must decide how much of their truth they’re willing to share.
120 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 9, 2025
2 people want to read
About the author
Harry Applebottom
76 books55 followersHarry Applebottom is a hopeful romantic and a gay erotic romance author here to unabashedly satiate and titillate your inner carnal desires with lots of steam, heart, and love. Harry's works range from short stories and novellas to full-length novels of various subgenres, where every ending ends with a happy one.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 1, 2025
He did it gain. He wrote a beautiful love story in such a unique way. I’ve learned a lot about movie sets, not because it’s overly talked about in the book, but because Adam and Lance live it and breathe it. And their love is so beautiful and soft. It isn’t hurried, or simply lust, it’s a slow build up, a connection, Lance is invested, and Adam lets him, and it’s a truly beautiful story. Alana and Mira were incredible. Secondary characters to this gorgeous love story, but very necessary, because neither the story nor the characters would be the same without them. I just love this author, and I recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 9, 2025
Adam and Lance . . .
Adam Dover is ready to take on his first important major role, an opportunity to gain more public notice and get additional acting roles going forward. Seeing the name of his well-known co-star had left him speechless as he moved through the set, listening to helpful words of advice as they got him ready for the filming. He had never actually met Lance Prescott but had seen him on posters, magazine covers, YouTube. He had amazing charisma and control. Adam followed a P.A. to the bedroom set and talked with the Director, Mira Kline, who told him "don't act it -- mean it... and the camera will do the rest". He turned when he heard Lance Prescott's voice behind him, watched him shaking the camera op's hand, conferring with a coordinator, and then walking over to greet Adam. Then they practiced the scene over and over until it was exactly what they were going for. After lunch, they filmed the actual scene that would be kept. Lance gave Adam advice as his mentor, and Adam wanted to tell him he didn't need a pep talk! But he did what Lance suggested and it made the scene perfect. With Lance mentoring Adam, he constantly improves, and the filming moves steadily forward.
They had started practicing their lines together each evening, which did make the filming move along more quickly and effectively. The kiss scene was coming up, so they decided to practice that as well. But this part was not just pretend. It felt very real for both of them. Are they able to keep it professional with the intense scenes that are coming up? Will they walk away when the film is completed? Or has it become important and real for them... and perhaps for the audience as well?
This is one of my favorite authors whose writing is truly amazing. He makes everything feel plausible and brings the reader into the story to actually feel the emotions and reactions of the characters you will care about. Don’t let this story get away without experiencing it for yourself. You will not want to miss it!
Adam Dover is ready to take on his first important major role, an opportunity to gain more public notice and get additional acting roles going forward. Seeing the name of his well-known co-star had left him speechless as he moved through the set, listening to helpful words of advice as they got him ready for the filming. He had never actually met Lance Prescott but had seen him on posters, magazine covers, YouTube. He had amazing charisma and control. Adam followed a P.A. to the bedroom set and talked with the Director, Mira Kline, who told him "don't act it -- mean it... and the camera will do the rest". He turned when he heard Lance Prescott's voice behind him, watched him shaking the camera op's hand, conferring with a coordinator, and then walking over to greet Adam. Then they practiced the scene over and over until it was exactly what they were going for. After lunch, they filmed the actual scene that would be kept. Lance gave Adam advice as his mentor, and Adam wanted to tell him he didn't need a pep talk! But he did what Lance suggested and it made the scene perfect. With Lance mentoring Adam, he constantly improves, and the filming moves steadily forward.
They had started practicing their lines together each evening, which did make the filming move along more quickly and effectively. The kiss scene was coming up, so they decided to practice that as well. But this part was not just pretend. It felt very real for both of them. Are they able to keep it professional with the intense scenes that are coming up? Will they walk away when the film is completed? Or has it become important and real for them... and perhaps for the audience as well?
This is one of my favorite authors whose writing is truly amazing. He makes everything feel plausible and brings the reader into the story to actually feel the emotions and reactions of the characters you will care about. Don’t let this story get away without experiencing it for yourself. You will not want to miss it!
October 2, 2025
“Satisfying and titillating your most carnal desires with stories full of steam, heart and love” that’s what it says on the authors intro, and he delivers in spades. I’ve read several of his books now and I’m so happy that he writes such diverse stories. He doesn’t focus on any tropes or genres, just always on lovable characters, interesting stories and of course, HEA’s.
I received a free ARC via the author and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
‘Closed Set’ is based on two MC’s who are actors involved in the making of a movie. Lance is the experienced Pro and Adam is fairly new and still learning and so nervous and unsure of himself. Lance was such a warm hearted mentor to Adam and brought out the best in him. So much so that in the very intimate scenes in what is definitely an MM Romance movie, Adam fails at faking it for the cameras.
I loved how they communicated on set and it was very interesting seeing what actually goes on In the making of movies between directors, camera crews and particularly here with the role of Intimacy Co-Ordinator Who knew the scope of that job!! There is a bit of ‘film making trade jargon’ between directors, camera crew and actors and highlights the importance of the Intimacy Co-Ordinator where scenes are particularly ‘up front and personal, where it’s all about ‘consent, consent and consent’.
When the heat and chemistry ignites between Lance and Adam in one scene and they are speaking their own private language while the cameras innocently keep rolling, it’s a wrap.
At only 120 pages I wanted to continue reading more about Lance and Adam after the cameras stopped rolling.
Loved this short story from Harry Applebottom, never been disappointed since I found his books.
I highly recommend you dive right in and read his stories, you won’t be disappointed as there is much diversity in his catalogue of work.
I received a free ARC via the author and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
‘Closed Set’ is based on two MC’s who are actors involved in the making of a movie. Lance is the experienced Pro and Adam is fairly new and still learning and so nervous and unsure of himself. Lance was such a warm hearted mentor to Adam and brought out the best in him. So much so that in the very intimate scenes in what is definitely an MM Romance movie, Adam fails at faking it for the cameras.
I loved how they communicated on set and it was very interesting seeing what actually goes on In the making of movies between directors, camera crews and particularly here with the role of Intimacy Co-Ordinator Who knew the scope of that job!! There is a bit of ‘film making trade jargon’ between directors, camera crew and actors and highlights the importance of the Intimacy Co-Ordinator where scenes are particularly ‘up front and personal, where it’s all about ‘consent, consent and consent’.
When the heat and chemistry ignites between Lance and Adam in one scene and they are speaking their own private language while the cameras innocently keep rolling, it’s a wrap.
At only 120 pages I wanted to continue reading more about Lance and Adam after the cameras stopped rolling.
Loved this short story from Harry Applebottom, never been disappointed since I found his books.
I highly recommend you dive right in and read his stories, you won’t be disappointed as there is much diversity in his catalogue of work.
November 12, 2025
The story of Lance and Adam and the movie they were making shined a light on the illusion that movies create. I thought this was especially relevant with the use of intimacy coordinators used in film and stage today, changing some of the dynamic actors had to face in the past, before they became as routine as they are in the present.
One place I connected with that idea was with the change in the seasons of Outlander on Stars from the first seasons to the present. The first season was before intimacy coordinators, and I can only imagine the awkwardness and stress in intimate scenes when the expectations were less controlled. The constant checking on consent with the actors, the directions about limits of touch, amount of pressure, camera angles to suggest more, was rather eye-opening. It is so easy to get drawn into the feeling with good actors and production staff that everything is real, when the reality is often illusion and good acting. It kind of takes the bloom off the rose, but also highlights how the coordinator position has its place in the entertainment industry today.
I thought Harry did an excellent job in this book, telling a story about romance but also educating his audience to help us appreciate the role of actors and actresses in a new way. I could feel the connection between Lance and Adam over time, feel Adam’s uncertainty and fear, and also appreciate the support Lance gave to Adam from his experience. As always, it was good to see Lance and Adam get their HEA, developed in such a natural way.
I am a fan of Harry’s books, and this one was right up there at the top for me. Unusual, but interesting, informative, and with emotional elements, too. Well done, Harry,
I received an advance review copy for free and this is my voluntary review.
One place I connected with that idea was with the change in the seasons of Outlander on Stars from the first seasons to the present. The first season was before intimacy coordinators, and I can only imagine the awkwardness and stress in intimate scenes when the expectations were less controlled. The constant checking on consent with the actors, the directions about limits of touch, amount of pressure, camera angles to suggest more, was rather eye-opening. It is so easy to get drawn into the feeling with good actors and production staff that everything is real, when the reality is often illusion and good acting. It kind of takes the bloom off the rose, but also highlights how the coordinator position has its place in the entertainment industry today.
I thought Harry did an excellent job in this book, telling a story about romance but also educating his audience to help us appreciate the role of actors and actresses in a new way. I could feel the connection between Lance and Adam over time, feel Adam’s uncertainty and fear, and also appreciate the support Lance gave to Adam from his experience. As always, it was good to see Lance and Adam get their HEA, developed in such a natural way.
I am a fan of Harry’s books, and this one was right up there at the top for me. Unusual, but interesting, informative, and with emotional elements, too. Well done, Harry,
I received an advance review copy for free and this is my voluntary review.
October 11, 2025
Harry Applebottom has done it again. His beautiful prose elevates his stories and makes them more in so many ways. The emotion he puts into every book and every character he writes is beautiful and awe-inspiring. In this book he takes us into the world of movie sets and actors. We meet Adam who landed a huge part with big time actor Lance doing a gay romance about wanting but learning how to open up and ask for what you want. Adam is nervous and doesn't want to screw up and to his dislike Lance sees that. Adam is a little defensive and a bit abrasive at times in the beginning but with Lance giving him notes on how to be real and feel the emotions of the movie and not just act it he starts to open himself up to it and to Lance's mentoring. But things shift when both men start to do more than act. They start developing stronger feeling that lead to so much more than they ever expected. They're constantly checking in, getting consent, going slow and leaning on each other on and off set. They don't want to mess things up with work or with each other especially when they realize they actually want to try. I loved them so much. This was a beautiful book with some delicious steam and Adam and Lance just come alive. There hasn't been one book by this author I haven't loved and it's an honor to get to ARC read a bunch of his books. You won't regret picking up a Harry Applebottom book, I'll tell you that much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2025
There are stories you pick for their plot or characters, and then there are stories you pick because you simply love the author’s voice — Closed Set is exactly that kind of read. I’ve read Harry Applebottom before, and once again, I found myself swept away by the rhythm and melody of his storytelling. Even though the short format doesn’t leave much space for character backstory, I didn’t mind at all. The author’s writing style has a certain charm that carries you through with quiet tension and subtle emotion, never rushing or burning too hot, just keeping you engaged. It’s one of those pieces you read not because you need to feel deeply, but because you enjoy how it sounds in your mind — how it flows. A truly pleasant short read that reminds me why I’ll always come back to this author’s work.
October 11, 2025
True chemistry
Adam has got his first True big Acting roll and it’s with someone he admires Lance Prescott. This is about how Adam learns life experiences. Lance is guiding him to becoming a fantastic actor but also on the quiet they give into the sexual chemistry that is electric with these two.
I enjoyed this read I liked Adam and Lance and was really impressed with how Lance helped him out. It was very obvious from the outset that these two had a chemistry but would it be enough to survive the industry they both worked in?? The passion is off the chart and you could really feel something growing between them they had a connection and the chemistry to make it work.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Adam has got his first True big Acting roll and it’s with someone he admires Lance Prescott. This is about how Adam learns life experiences. Lance is guiding him to becoming a fantastic actor but also on the quiet they give into the sexual chemistry that is electric with these two.
I enjoyed this read I liked Adam and Lance and was really impressed with how Lance helped him out. It was very obvious from the outset that these two had a chemistry but would it be enough to survive the industry they both worked in?? The passion is off the chart and you could really feel something growing between them they had a connection and the chemistry to make it work.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2025
This book was a great example of a patience in a love story. Lance is the more experienced actor and Adam is intimidated to work with the more experienced professional. Lance pushes Adam's boundaries on the set but always checks in with Adam to ensure he doesn't go to far. He pulls the best from Adam. The same occurs romantically. Lance is always asking if Adam wants the next step and gives Adam the ability to pause and he sets the limits. Lance is aware of Adam's inexperience as compared to his own. He shows genuine love and attention to Adam.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2025
'And Adam walked in knowing, for the first time, that whatever happened next would be because he put himself there, not because a camera caught him.'
I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Lance and Adam. I loved the dynamic between them and the way their relationship developed- both on set and behind the scenes. While Lance is the more experienced actor and Adam is learning from him, I liked how Adam grows more comfortable and confident over their time together. Lance was also patient and kind and I enjoyed their journey. I also loved the supporting characters. 5 stars
I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Lance and Adam. I loved the dynamic between them and the way their relationship developed- both on set and behind the scenes. While Lance is the more experienced actor and Adam is learning from him, I liked how Adam grows more comfortable and confident over their time together. Lance was also patient and kind and I enjoyed their journey. I also loved the supporting characters. 5 stars
November 7, 2025
Closed Set is a sizzling, emotional slow burn that perfectly captures the tension of falling for someone you absolutely shouldn’t. Adam and Lance’s chemistry leaps off the page—intense, teasing, and irresistibly real.
Harry Applebottom balances Hollywood glamour with raw vulnerability, blending passion and pressure in a story that feels both intimate and cinematic. It’s a love story about risk, authenticity, and the courage to be seen.
Smart, sexy, and full of heart—this one deserves a standing ovation.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Harry Applebottom balances Hollywood glamour with raw vulnerability, blending passion and pressure in a story that feels both intimate and cinematic. It’s a love story about risk, authenticity, and the courage to be seen.
Smart, sexy, and full of heart—this one deserves a standing ovation.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 10, 2025
Another triumph!
Adam, a new actor, meets Lance, a seasoned, professional actor. This is their story of how a mentorship becomes a full blown romance. At first, Lance takes Adam under his wing and then their chemistry is undeniable.
I love the elements of how it came to be and the secondary characters also helped Adam become a better actor.
Definitely recommend if you want to read something beautiful and page turning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Adam, a new actor, meets Lance, a seasoned, professional actor. This is their story of how a mentorship becomes a full blown romance. At first, Lance takes Adam under his wing and then their chemistry is undeniable.
I love the elements of how it came to be and the secondary characters also helped Adam become a better actor.
Definitely recommend if you want to read something beautiful and page turning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2025
Adam is an up & coming film star, Lance being the pro at his job helps take Adam under his wing & help him along. After ending of each night Lance & Adam get together to rehearse their lines. .One thing leads to another & they form a kinship that turns to much more. No angst, HEA. No matter how long or short Harry Applebottom's book are they are always enjoyable. A great addition to this author's list of books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 9, 2025
Harry Applebottom never ceases to amaze me with his work. Every love story he writes is unique. In this book the characters are so well developed. Lance takes on this mentor role that becomes an intimate romantic relationship. This book has the perfect ratio of steam to love. I recommend reading this and hope you fall in love with another amazing book by Harry will touch your heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2025
Coworkers turn lovers in this quick and fun little ready. Adam and Lance meet and fall for each other on a movie set they are both cast on; while Lance is an experienced actor and Adam is newer on the scene and still learning his craft. Lines get blurred and ground rules put in place, making for a respectful and open and honest budding relationship with some exciting spicy scenes.
Definite recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Definite recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 17, 2025
Adam got his first acting job and met Lance on set trying to remember what he had to do the acting real. He hated how Lance made him feel on set because he was new to acting. Lance helps him with the different roles to be more natural, he has to do the 5 things drill to keep him grounded. They were good on set and great off set didn’t let their personnel lives come through in the movie which was very good.
October 6, 2025
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked the look into a movie set that had fake intimate scenes in it and how things were handled. Lance was more experienced and mentors Adam. I liked how over time, their relationship on the screen became real in their personal time.
October 17, 2025
The story reads like a TV set. Adam is learning the ropes of acting and nervousaboutmakinga mistake. Lance is the seasoned actor and is very comfortable in his own skin.
The characters are well done and the world building seems realistic. The plot is a bit slow but needed.
I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are well done and the world building seems realistic. The plot is a bit slow but needed.
I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2025
This one was a little confusing to me at first with all the movie set sequences, but kept reading and felt all the underlying elements. Good characters that help each other discover and discuss their own stories. Liked how this went slow with purpose.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2025
"Closed Set" by Harry Applebottom just became one of my favorite books. This story is a slooooooow burn but the pace is perfect. Lance and Adam are so well written, their chemistry is palpable. The story draws you right in and is more of an experience than just a story. I loved everything about this book and look forward to more from this author.
October 7, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book I thought it was well written and so enjoyed the characters in this story. I kept turning the pages.I can’t wait to read more from Harry Applebottom.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2025
Well this is another hit by Harry. This may not be everyones cup of tea but this hits on another level. This is ther perfect mix of spice and everything nice in between.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2025
I love this author! I seriously haven’t read a story I didn’t love! And I think Adam and Lance are the sweetest couple he’s written?! I loved every minute of this story and loved the writing and secondary characters 10/10
October 5, 2025
Such a great read with amazing build up and a wonderful ending. The kind that flows naturally and has that honest feel-good air about it.
I received an ARC from Book Sirens for my honest review.
I received an ARC from Book Sirens for my honest review.
October 6, 2025
I really enjoy this author’s stories and again I can’t complain this is another well written enjoyable read about actors Lance and Adam and their beautiful love story.
October 28, 2025
Closed Set is wonderful standalone book by Harry Applebottom. This is a coworkers to lovers read about Adam and Lance. I really enjoyed this story and the characters.
November 10, 2025
I recieved an ARc of this book from BookSirens. This book is already out.
Oh my gosh this was a sweet, sexy book. I loved Adam and Lance and I wished I could have spent a longer time with them. another great thing besides the really great romance is that I learned a lot about movie sets. I'd give this book more than 5 stars if I could
This book was a win for me for sure.
Until next time. Peace and happy reading.
Oh my gosh this was a sweet, sexy book. I loved Adam and Lance and I wished I could have spent a longer time with them. another great thing besides the really great romance is that I learned a lot about movie sets. I'd give this book more than 5 stars if I could
This book was a win for me for sure.
Until next time. Peace and happy reading.
November 1, 2025
At the beginning of the book, we meet Lance, a renowned professional actor who is beloved by everyone, and Adam, a relatively new actor who is eager to learn from his co-Star, Lance.
Throughout the book, Lance mentors Adam, providing guidance and support as they navigate the challenges of filming.
Interestingly, during the filming of the movie, Lance and Adam develop an ongoing romantic relationship. They even share a passionate moment under the covers while the film is being recorded that no one knew about.
It added a layer of complexity and intimacy to their relationship on and off the making of the movie.
Maybe it's the voyeurism in me, not sure, but it was seriously hot.
I loved this book.
Trace Dial.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Throughout the book, Lance mentors Adam, providing guidance and support as they navigate the challenges of filming.
Interestingly, during the filming of the movie, Lance and Adam develop an ongoing romantic relationship. They even share a passionate moment under the covers while the film is being recorded that no one knew about.
It added a layer of complexity and intimacy to their relationship on and off the making of the movie.
Maybe it's the voyeurism in me, not sure, but it was seriously hot.
I loved this book.
Trace Dial.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews