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Starring Role: A sweet contemporary romance
A film set. A reluctant actor. A consultant midwife. And a cute cottage they’re forced to share.
Midwife Jess Williams has reached her party-girl low after her latest disastrous date. It’s time to make a change, and agreeing to be a consultant on a film set is the perfect kick-start for her “Chaos to Calm” plan.
Nothing makes sense for Dr Nate Mitchell since he discovered his fiancée with her legs wrapped around his old school friend. Planning to forget all about her, he takes the lead role in a historical medical drama filmed in rural New Zealand.
When there’s an accommodation mix-up, he finds himself sharing a cottage with the consulting midwife who looks exactly like his fiancée. How is he meant to forget about his ex when he has to live and work with her doppelgänger?
Professionally, they make a great team. But, when the cameras stop rolling, could there be something more?
Midwife Jess Williams has reached her party-girl low after her latest disastrous date. It’s time to make a change, and agreeing to be a consultant on a film set is the perfect kick-start for her “Chaos to Calm” plan.
Nothing makes sense for Dr Nate Mitchell since he discovered his fiancée with her legs wrapped around his old school friend. Planning to forget all about her, he takes the lead role in a historical medical drama filmed in rural New Zealand.
When there’s an accommodation mix-up, he finds himself sharing a cottage with the consulting midwife who looks exactly like his fiancée. How is he meant to forget about his ex when he has to live and work with her doppelgänger?
Professionally, they make a great team. But, when the cameras stop rolling, could there be something more?
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2026
11 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 10, 2026
I devoured this debut romance novel in a single sitting!
'A film set. A reluctant actor. A consultant midwife. And a cute cottage they’re forced to share.'
I loved the New Zealand setting, the banter between Jess and Nate, as well as the medical details. I adore the epilogue!
What to expect:
💛 Small town in New Zealand
💛 Historical medical drama television production
💛 A reluctant actor
💛 A consultant midwife
💛 Banter and chemistry
💛 Doctor x midwife
💛 One cute cottage to share
💛 Closed door romance
I am very excited to read more from New Zealand indie author Eden Rivers.
With thanks to Eden Rivers for the complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I loved this story so much, that I have pre-ordered my own copy!
4.5 stars (rounded up)
'A film set. A reluctant actor. A consultant midwife. And a cute cottage they’re forced to share.'
I loved the New Zealand setting, the banter between Jess and Nate, as well as the medical details. I adore the epilogue!
What to expect:
💛 Small town in New Zealand
💛 Historical medical drama television production
💛 A reluctant actor
💛 A consultant midwife
💛 Banter and chemistry
💛 Doctor x midwife
💛 One cute cottage to share
💛 Closed door romance
I am very excited to read more from New Zealand indie author Eden Rivers.
With thanks to Eden Rivers for the complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I loved this story so much, that I have pre-ordered my own copy!
4.5 stars (rounded up)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this all in one sitting this morning! I was trying to sample a few books to decide my next read and instantly got pulled into this one, and that was that, lol!
Nate is taking a break from his life in London and starring in a movie as a doctor. Jess is consulting as a midwife in the same movie. She has her thoughts on actors and men in general, and she's staying clear of the handsome doctor. Nate is drawn to Jess... she is gorgeous, of course she is, she is basically a doppelganger of his ex-fiance. But also a reason he doesn't like Jess is that when he looks at her, it reminds him of his failed engagement. These two are like oil and water when they meet... But when there is a mix-up in their overnight accommodations, they are stuck as roommates, and the two people that want to stay clear of each other are now roommates! But they have more in common than they think, and forced proximity has them wanting to break down their defenses and give each other a chance. But they know better... this is all temporary, it's best not to get involved. Now if only their hearts would get the memo!
The chemistry between these two, loved it! There is some innuendo and moments I worried this wouldn't be a closed door romance... but don't worry, it is. I was totally pulled into this story, their romance, and couldn't stop reading once I started! Loved the location of New Zealand, it sounded so beautiful, I could just envision the shared cottage and the romantic walks!
I gave this 4.5, rounded to a 5!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Nate is taking a break from his life in London and starring in a movie as a doctor. Jess is consulting as a midwife in the same movie. She has her thoughts on actors and men in general, and she's staying clear of the handsome doctor. Nate is drawn to Jess... she is gorgeous, of course she is, she is basically a doppelganger of his ex-fiance. But also a reason he doesn't like Jess is that when he looks at her, it reminds him of his failed engagement. These two are like oil and water when they meet... But when there is a mix-up in their overnight accommodations, they are stuck as roommates, and the two people that want to stay clear of each other are now roommates! But they have more in common than they think, and forced proximity has them wanting to break down their defenses and give each other a chance. But they know better... this is all temporary, it's best not to get involved. Now if only their hearts would get the memo!
The chemistry between these two, loved it! There is some innuendo and moments I worried this wouldn't be a closed door romance... but don't worry, it is. I was totally pulled into this story, their romance, and couldn't stop reading once I started! Loved the location of New Zealand, it sounded so beautiful, I could just envision the shared cottage and the romantic walks!
I gave this 4.5, rounded to a 5!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
February 12, 2026
So thankful I got to read this arc! It was way cuter than I expected!! I love Jess and & Nate. The slow burn was a bit more slow than I usually go for but it was written perfectly and worth the wait! I learned so much from this book unexpectedly so definitely worth the read! It’s written with a lot of UK spelling but was so fun to learn and see the different spellings and compare them to our spellings in the U.S. I teared up at the end. Sorry y’all for the spoiler but this quote🥺🥺 “Wherever you are that’s where I want my home to be.” Definitely recommend!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is a fun read with characters that I loved getting to know. Perfect beach or vacation book that is hard to put down. There is just the right amount of interesting drama and a lovely romance that brings you into the story and makes you want to stay there!
January 25, 2026
3.75/5!
Thank you, Eden L Rivers for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
When I first started this book, I thought I wasn’t going to like it. I was not okay with how Nate, our male main character, kept comparing Jess, our female main character, to his ex girlfriend. However, it was part of the plot. I kept reading and ultimately enjoyed how his view changed as he got to know Jess. Their story was cute. I appreciate how their love story was not rushed!
I really enjoyed the length of this novel. It will be perfect to recommend to those who are close to meeting their reading goals and need books on the shorter side.
I also enjoyed the Grey’s Anatomy theme going on here. It kept the plot exciting. I did feel that there were too many coincidental medical issues happening miraculously right in front of a doctor/midwife combo, but it is what it is!
Overall, cute read!
Thank you, Eden L Rivers for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
When I first started this book, I thought I wasn’t going to like it. I was not okay with how Nate, our male main character, kept comparing Jess, our female main character, to his ex girlfriend. However, it was part of the plot. I kept reading and ultimately enjoyed how his view changed as he got to know Jess. Their story was cute. I appreciate how their love story was not rushed!
I really enjoyed the length of this novel. It will be perfect to recommend to those who are close to meeting their reading goals and need books on the shorter side.
I also enjoyed the Grey’s Anatomy theme going on here. It kept the plot exciting. I did feel that there were too many coincidental medical issues happening miraculously right in front of a doctor/midwife combo, but it is what it is!
Overall, cute read!
February 2, 2026
ARC REVIEW:
Today marks the official release of Eden L. Rivers’ debut novel, Starring Role!!!
Starring Role is a delightful read. It combines popular tropes such as small-town, forced proximity, and workplace romance. But Rivers doesn’t stop there. She infuses a fun mistaken/ secret identity twist.
I was pleasantly surprised by this story. If I am being honest, I have lower expectations for debut novels. The reason being, authors are still finding their voice and writing style. Thankfully, that was not the case for Starring Role.
This was a fast-paced, quick read. I found the plot to be unique and intriguing!!!
Special thanks to Eden L Rivers and Roper Eden Publishing for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
Today marks the official release of Eden L. Rivers’ debut novel, Starring Role!!!
Starring Role is a delightful read. It combines popular tropes such as small-town, forced proximity, and workplace romance. But Rivers doesn’t stop there. She infuses a fun mistaken/ secret identity twist.
I was pleasantly surprised by this story. If I am being honest, I have lower expectations for debut novels. The reason being, authors are still finding their voice and writing style. Thankfully, that was not the case for Starring Role.
This was a fast-paced, quick read. I found the plot to be unique and intriguing!!!
Special thanks to Eden L Rivers and Roper Eden Publishing for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 2, 2026
Jess likes to party, but at twenty-eight, it’s starting to feel old. She may have hookups, but she doesn’t date, at least not more than twice. She keeps having the same experiences, but doesn’t quite understand that she’s never going to have a lasting relationship with that kind of man. Doesn’t stop said men from trying to tie her down. But her partying is put on hold, as she’s been hired as a consultant midwife for an historic mini-series set in New Zealand.
When she meets Nate, the actor playing the main character, she appreciates his handsomeness, but is not impressed by his manners. He treats her very coldly, as if she’s a lowly servant. And there’s a reason for that—Jess looks remarkably like Nate’s former fiancé, Samantha, whom he caught cheating with one of his friends. Instead of facing things head-on, Nate makes a run for it, taking a leave of absence from work, and dusted off his acting career for this role.
When they find out they’ve been assigned the same house as their lodgings for the duration of filming, neither are happy. Still, forced proximity has them slowly getting to know each other.
There’s a lot of back and forth with these two, as they are both letting their pasts determine their present. There are assumptions made, and it’s understandable, when you know the source of those assumptions. Still, they manage to stumble through to a happy ending.
I love the setting of New Zealand; this author is obviously a native, and I love the descriptions of each setting. I also love the little secret of what is Nate’s job, something I had a suspicion about early on.
This is a well-written book, with a very satisfying conclusion, and I look forward to more stories from this author.
When she meets Nate, the actor playing the main character, she appreciates his handsomeness, but is not impressed by his manners. He treats her very coldly, as if she’s a lowly servant. And there’s a reason for that—Jess looks remarkably like Nate’s former fiancé, Samantha, whom he caught cheating with one of his friends. Instead of facing things head-on, Nate makes a run for it, taking a leave of absence from work, and dusted off his acting career for this role.
When they find out they’ve been assigned the same house as their lodgings for the duration of filming, neither are happy. Still, forced proximity has them slowly getting to know each other.
There’s a lot of back and forth with these two, as they are both letting their pasts determine their present. There are assumptions made, and it’s understandable, when you know the source of those assumptions. Still, they manage to stumble through to a happy ending.
I love the setting of New Zealand; this author is obviously a native, and I love the descriptions of each setting. I also love the little secret of what is Nate’s job, something I had a suspicion about early on.
This is a well-written book, with a very satisfying conclusion, and I look forward to more stories from this author.
February 6, 2026
after another awful date, party-loving midwife jess williams decides it’s time to turn her life around. taking a consulting role on a film set seems like the ideal first step toward bringing some order to her chaotic world. dr. nate mitchell is still struggling after catching his fiancée with an old friend. determined to put the past behind him, he accepts the starring role in a historical medical drama being filmed in rural new zealand. a housing mix-up forces nate to share a cottage with jess, who happens to be the spitting image of his ex. trying to move on becomes far more complicated when he has to live and work with her. on set, their professional partnership works effortlessly, but once filming ends for the day, sparks begin to fly, raising the question of whether their connection could turn into something deeper.
I was super excited to read my very first ARC read! nate and jess grew on me fast and also the other characters were fun and important for the story. at some times I felt like the inner dialogue of the main characters repeated itself, but it never kept the story from being engaging! it was an easy, light read and it was just what I expected. it‘s a book that teaches you that sometimes, you just have to take the leap and jump out of your comfort zone to explore what is out there for you. because who knows, there could be beautiful things waiting for you!
I was super excited to read my very first ARC read! nate and jess grew on me fast and also the other characters were fun and important for the story. at some times I felt like the inner dialogue of the main characters repeated itself, but it never kept the story from being engaging! it was an easy, light read and it was just what I expected. it‘s a book that teaches you that sometimes, you just have to take the leap and jump out of your comfort zone to explore what is out there for you. because who knows, there could be beautiful things waiting for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! It's the only book I've ever read in one sitting. I have never been one for romance novels, but I have to say that 'Starring Role' by Eden L. Rivers captivated me from the start. The content was well-researched (my youngest daughter is a midwifery on-set consultant, so I could relate totally), well-written, and flowed beautifully. The main characters were abrasive at the outset, but following their paths as opinions changed and situations steered their lives in parallel was engaging and realistic. Midwife Jess Williams was a likeable person seeking direction in her life. Nate Mitchell was the typical English heartthrob with a past that overshadowed the present. The author weaved a believable story that saw their paths cross and separate throughout and yet left me hoping that all would come right in the end. It's a fantastic novel full of heart and expectation, and I am sure, when released, it will be a huge success with fans of contemporary romance. I am grateful to have been a part of the eARC readers team for this book and thank the author for the opportunity to enjoy her work for free. I hadn't expected to be so taken with the story and therefore leave this deserved review voluntarily because others deserve to enjoy it too.
January 19, 2026
3.5 Star rating
This is a pretty quick read as I read it in just a couple of hours.
This debut novel from Eden Rivers is set in a small town in New Zealand. The story follows Nate and Jess, both of whom need to work through some past experiences to allow them to find the courage to trust their feelings for each other.
In this book we get a small town slow burn romance with forced proximity (one cottage). Nate was a childhood actor and is returning for one stint as a Dr in a Historical Medical drama as basically an escape from his current life situation. Jess is a midwife that is a last minute add as a consultant for the film. The kicker - Jess could pass for Nate's cheating ex-girlfriend's doppelganger. Jess has decided to change the theme of her life from chaos to clam - which means no guys! However, sparks start to fly when Nate and Jess have to share a small cottage because of an accommodations mistake.
I enjoyed the book and the banter between the characters. I also enjoyed the flow of the story and how it ended.
Content: drinking, love-bombing, cheating, alluding to pre-marital sex, no-spice, no-language
I received an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Quotes:
"... reality always had to be faced up to in the end."
"Love wasn't a race."
This is a pretty quick read as I read it in just a couple of hours.
This debut novel from Eden Rivers is set in a small town in New Zealand. The story follows Nate and Jess, both of whom need to work through some past experiences to allow them to find the courage to trust their feelings for each other.
In this book we get a small town slow burn romance with forced proximity (one cottage). Nate was a childhood actor and is returning for one stint as a Dr in a Historical Medical drama as basically an escape from his current life situation. Jess is a midwife that is a last minute add as a consultant for the film. The kicker - Jess could pass for Nate's cheating ex-girlfriend's doppelganger. Jess has decided to change the theme of her life from chaos to clam - which means no guys! However, sparks start to fly when Nate and Jess have to share a small cottage because of an accommodations mistake.
I enjoyed the book and the banter between the characters. I also enjoyed the flow of the story and how it ended.
Content: drinking, love-bombing, cheating, alluding to pre-marital sex, no-spice, no-language
I received an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Quotes:
"... reality always had to be faced up to in the end."
"Love wasn't a race."
January 31, 2026
Thank you to Eden L Rivers for the ARC of He Has a Starring Role, out February 2nd.
This book completely charmed me.
Set against a showbiz backdrop, it plays with that delicious question: someone might be perfect in the spotlight… but can they actually be the leading man in real life too? And honestly? I was hooked from the start.
The banter is sharp, the chemistry feels natural, and the slow-burn tension had me smiling like an idiot more than once. Watching these two circle each other — stubborn, vulnerable, trying not to fall and absolutely failing — was just so satisfying.
What really worked for me was the heart. Beneath the fun, there’s emotional depth and genuine growth, and I found myself properly invested in both characters. Their journey felt real, not forced, and the payoff was totally worth it.
It’s light without being shallow, romantic without being cheesy, and the kind of story you pick up “for a chapter” and suddenly it’s midnight and you’re still reading. Zero regrets.
Such a warm, feel-good, comfort read — this one stayed with me.
This book completely charmed me.
Set against a showbiz backdrop, it plays with that delicious question: someone might be perfect in the spotlight… but can they actually be the leading man in real life too? And honestly? I was hooked from the start.
The banter is sharp, the chemistry feels natural, and the slow-burn tension had me smiling like an idiot more than once. Watching these two circle each other — stubborn, vulnerable, trying not to fall and absolutely failing — was just so satisfying.
What really worked for me was the heart. Beneath the fun, there’s emotional depth and genuine growth, and I found myself properly invested in both characters. Their journey felt real, not forced, and the payoff was totally worth it.
It’s light without being shallow, romantic without being cheesy, and the kind of story you pick up “for a chapter” and suddenly it’s midnight and you’re still reading. Zero regrets.
Such a warm, feel-good, comfort read — this one stayed with me.
February 2, 2026
The story is about Jess and Nate. Nate is an actor, originally from London and accepted the lead role in a medical drama in rural New Zealand. Jess is a midwife who is working as a consultant. They both have different reasons to escape their current life. Nate fled London, because of his cheating ex fiancé and Jess wants to be more responsible and less of a party girl. Their lives collide on the film set.
Their love story is very slow burn but very sweet. I couldn’t wait for them to finally get together and it was definitely worth the wait. It all developed very naturally and not forced, which I thought made it feel more realistic. Lots of back and forth and funny banter, while being forced to live together in a small cottage. This book has a lot of drama on and off set.
I give this book 4 stars. It’s such a heartwarming and cute story. Jess and Nate definitely complete each other and learn together to be more trusting. Their love story is one I can’t get enough of.
Thank you Eden L. Rivers for the e.ARC!
Their love story is very slow burn but very sweet. I couldn’t wait for them to finally get together and it was definitely worth the wait. It all developed very naturally and not forced, which I thought made it feel more realistic. Lots of back and forth and funny banter, while being forced to live together in a small cottage. This book has a lot of drama on and off set.
I give this book 4 stars. It’s such a heartwarming and cute story. Jess and Nate definitely complete each other and learn together to be more trusting. Their love story is one I can’t get enough of.
Thank you Eden L. Rivers for the e.ARC!
February 6, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Rating: 3.5/5⭐️
Recommended Age: 14+
This is a short, cute book about two people in a doctor show. They find themselves sharing a cottage and aren’t budging. It was fun to see how they turned from enemies to friends to more.
I liked the doctor aspect of it, which I normally am not a fan of, but this was a good take on it. She made it interesting even if it was for the most part acting.
The only thing I didn’t like were the misunderstandings. Other than that it was good.
You’ll find:
💛Celebrity
💛Doctor x Midwife
💛Mistaken Identity
💛Workplace Romance
💛Forced Proximity
💛One Bed
💛Medical Drama
💛Small Town in New Zealand
💛Slow Burn Romance
POV: Dual POV, third person, past tense
Door: closed door 🚪
Spice level according to Closed Door Romance: Level 2
Swearing chart according to Closed Door Romance: None
Trigger Warnings: cheating (not MCs), stalkerish guy (only mentioned and through text), complications during pregnancy
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Rating: 3.5/5⭐️
Recommended Age: 14+
This is a short, cute book about two people in a doctor show. They find themselves sharing a cottage and aren’t budging. It was fun to see how they turned from enemies to friends to more.
I liked the doctor aspect of it, which I normally am not a fan of, but this was a good take on it. She made it interesting even if it was for the most part acting.
The only thing I didn’t like were the misunderstandings. Other than that it was good.
You’ll find:
💛Celebrity
💛Doctor x Midwife
💛Mistaken Identity
💛Workplace Romance
💛Forced Proximity
💛One Bed
💛Medical Drama
💛Small Town in New Zealand
💛Slow Burn Romance
POV: Dual POV, third person, past tense
Door: closed door 🚪
Spice level according to Closed Door Romance: Level 2
Swearing chart according to Closed Door Romance: None
Trigger Warnings: cheating (not MCs), stalkerish guy (only mentioned and through text), complications during pregnancy
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
February 18, 2026
Totalmente una lectura fascinante, linda y atrapante. Es la primera vez que leo un libro ambientado en el ámbito de la maternidad, y me encantó cómo se mezclaba con todo el tema de la filmación y la actuación, fue algo tan original que me llevó a investigar muchísimas cosas mientras leía. Me encantaron los protagonistas, Jess y Nate, me gustó mucho cómo evolucionaron tras esa mala primera impresión mutua, y la escena en la cottage fue simplemente... (iykyk 🤭). Sus interacciones pasaban de lo divertido a la admiración; verlos trabajar juntos y apoyarse fue, sin duda, de mis partes favoritas, pues me fascinó la pasión y el amor que sienten por sus profesiones. Por supuesto, los momentos de atracción romántica fueron increíbles (¡LA ESCENA EN EL RÍO Y CUANDO ÉL LA CUIDA, OH MY GOD, AMÉ!) Es una gran historia sobre dos personas buscando transformar sus vidas.
Felicito a la autora por este lindo debut. No puedo esperar a ver sus próximos proyectos.💛
----------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to the author for this ARC. 🫶🏻
Felicito a la autora por este lindo debut. No puedo esperar a ver sus próximos proyectos.💛
----------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to the author for this ARC. 🫶🏻
March 8, 2026
Oh. My. GOODNESS. What a story!! On one side is a doctor who plays a doctor on TV. Yes, you read that right. On the other side is a midwife with a plan. So what happens when their lives crash into each other? So. Much. Pettiness. And I'm HERE FOR IT ALL!
All of the characters were so realistically written, and I think, personally, that's a key element to any story. Their experiences outside the storyline are so relatable and believable that it adds so much to the plot. More than once I wanted to dive into a popcorn bucket reading the drama they created with each other. I truly enjoyed reading how they developed as individuals and as a pair. In fact, I got so lost in the story that I never even noticed that my clock had hit 4am!
Final thoughts: If you enjoy Hallmark movies and sweet 'I hate you' turned 'I love you' tropes, Starring Role is for you. I personally recommend this on all the levels. Zero spice, cozy love, realistic believability, it has it all. Give it a read, you won't regret it!
Ravenheart Rating: 10/10
Spice Factor: Level 3 - Light Kisses
All of the characters were so realistically written, and I think, personally, that's a key element to any story. Their experiences outside the storyline are so relatable and believable that it adds so much to the plot. More than once I wanted to dive into a popcorn bucket reading the drama they created with each other. I truly enjoyed reading how they developed as individuals and as a pair. In fact, I got so lost in the story that I never even noticed that my clock had hit 4am!
Final thoughts: If you enjoy Hallmark movies and sweet 'I hate you' turned 'I love you' tropes, Starring Role is for you. I personally recommend this on all the levels. Zero spice, cozy love, realistic believability, it has it all. Give it a read, you won't regret it!
Ravenheart Rating: 10/10
Spice Factor: Level 3 - Light Kisses
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finished in 24hrs! I adored Nate & Jess’s story. I’ve never read a doctor / midwife trope before, and I really enjoyed it! Having midwife friends, I got sucked into the story line!
The book was well written, and developed organically. Nothing felt out of place.
I enjoyed all of the characters and how each played a role along with their individual personalities. It made the story rich.
The ending was so good! I didn’t see Nate’s final decision coming and quite enjoyed their reunion.
The dynamic of both MFC and MMC growing & redeeming a broken part of their self added a nice touch. I also enjoyed the development of the doppelgänger from start to finish.
The one cottage, one bed situation made me chuckle at times! I appreciated the heat without the spice. Well done.
It’s unlike anything I read this year and was a fast read that sucked me in from the start! Thanks you for letting me ARC read. 💕
The book was well written, and developed organically. Nothing felt out of place.
I enjoyed all of the characters and how each played a role along with their individual personalities. It made the story rich.
The ending was so good! I didn’t see Nate’s final decision coming and quite enjoyed their reunion.
The dynamic of both MFC and MMC growing & redeeming a broken part of their self added a nice touch. I also enjoyed the development of the doppelgänger from start to finish.
The one cottage, one bed situation made me chuckle at times! I appreciated the heat without the spice. Well done.
It’s unlike anything I read this year and was a fast read that sucked me in from the start! Thanks you for letting me ARC read. 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Starring Role is a fun, quick, no-spice read! I enjoyed this book for its focus on genuine connection and the struggles of finding real love and trust after heartbreak. It includes so many of my favourite tropes, including: celebrity romance, only one bed, forced proximity, caretaker, miscommunication, and city vs country!
For me, Nate and Jess are giving Sherlock and Irene Adler vibes! I would have liked more time to see them get to know each other. This book has all the ideas down, but I would have liked to see some things expanded upon. The film setting wrapped up rather abruptly to me, and the medical drama seemed to take precedence over the evolving relationship between Nate and Jess. I wanted more scenes like by the river, and I wanted to know more about Jess's desire to paint!
Overall, a very sweet, light read! Thank you, Eden L. Rivers for the gifted digital copy. 😊💛
Starring Role is a fun, quick, no-spice read! I enjoyed this book for its focus on genuine connection and the struggles of finding real love and trust after heartbreak. It includes so many of my favourite tropes, including: celebrity romance, only one bed, forced proximity, caretaker, miscommunication, and city vs country!
For me, Nate and Jess are giving Sherlock and Irene Adler vibes! I would have liked more time to see them get to know each other. This book has all the ideas down, but I would have liked to see some things expanded upon. The film setting wrapped up rather abruptly to me, and the medical drama seemed to take precedence over the evolving relationship between Nate and Jess. I wanted more scenes like by the river, and I wanted to know more about Jess's desire to paint!
Overall, a very sweet, light read! Thank you, Eden L. Rivers for the gifted digital copy. 😊💛
February 3, 2026
Starring Role by Eden L Rivers is a sweet contemporary romance. The story follows Jess and Dr. Nate Mitchell as they navigate wanting change in their lives and what that entails. They both find themselves on the set of a medical drama, Nate trying to escape a failed engagement after his finance cheated and Jess as a midwife consultant. Since Jess looks like Nate’s ex-fiance, he has a hard time interacting with her, especially when they find themselves sharing a one bedroom cottage. It was really fun reading about the characters being on set while filming the medical drama and how they went about making sure it was medically accurate. The story was well written and the author did a great job weaving medical components into the story to draw Nate and Jess closer. If you like slow burn romance with witty banter, you’ll enjoy this book. I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thought and opinions are my own.
March 7, 2026
When I first started reading Starring Role, I wasn’t sure I was going to like Jess or Nate, as people as well as potential love interests. However, as the story continued, you could see why they acted the way they did, and my opinion of them changed. I loved the way their interactions started to change as they were forced to spend time together due to an accommodation mix-up in addition to their time on the set. Nate ended up being such a sweet, thoughtful, and caring man who happens to be handsome. So swoon-worthy! Jess is beautiful and has a beautiful heart, especially when it comes to her patients, but she has some hurts from the past. Her story is hers to tell, so that’s all I’m saying 🤐
I ultimately loved their love story and, from the get-go, struggled with having to put the book away because I wanted to keep reading! I give Starring Role 5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommend!
DisclaimerA gifted copy was provided for an honest review.
I ultimately loved their love story and, from the get-go, struggled with having to put the book away because I wanted to keep reading! I give Starring Role 5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Highly recommend!
DisclaimerA gifted copy was provided for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was a sweet enemies to lovers story of a mid wife (Jess) and actor (Nate) who meet on the set of a movie and go from enemies to friends to falling for each other. Their journey takes a few twists, but ultimately I loved the realistic portrayal of the building of their relationship, their fun banter and dialogue, and was a fan of both Nate and Jess!
Jess and Nate are both likable characters who make this book so enjoyable and fun to read. I found myself really attached to their outcome and cheering for their relationship throughout the book! The ending especially had me emotionally invested and loved how everything wrapped up!
The book kept me wanting to read more and I couldn’t put it down. I truly enjoyed this no spice romance and cannot wait to read more by Eden L Rivers!
Jess and Nate are both likable characters who make this book so enjoyable and fun to read. I found myself really attached to their outcome and cheering for their relationship throughout the book! The ending especially had me emotionally invested and loved how everything wrapped up!
The book kept me wanting to read more and I couldn’t put it down. I truly enjoyed this no spice romance and cannot wait to read more by Eden L Rivers!
January 5, 2026
ARC review: Starting Role by @edenrivers_author (independently published)
Release date: 2 February 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a sweet workplace romance from a debut author. Set just outside of Christchurch, New Zealand, the story follows our FMC Jess who is a midwife who has been hired as a medical consultant on a historical television production. Here she meets our MMC Bate, the leading man of the show. Due to a booking error, we get one of my favourite tropes - forced proximity and for a least a night, one bed!
This was an easy read and I devoured it in a matter of hours. Both characters had to get over some prejudices they had about each other but it was beautiful watching their connection develop.
Release date: 2 February 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a sweet workplace romance from a debut author. Set just outside of Christchurch, New Zealand, the story follows our FMC Jess who is a midwife who has been hired as a medical consultant on a historical television production. Here she meets our MMC Bate, the leading man of the show. Due to a booking error, we get one of my favourite tropes - forced proximity and for a least a night, one bed!
This was an easy read and I devoured it in a matter of hours. Both characters had to get over some prejudices they had about each other but it was beautiful watching their connection develop.
February 4, 2026
This was a cute story that was quick and easy to read.. I especially enjoyed the New Zealand backdrop and movie set on which most of the story takes place. Jess is a midwife who is ready to make some changes to her party girl lifestyle. Nate is a doctor running away from his messy life by agreeing to play the lead in a time period medical drama miniseries. Both MCs start out annoyed with each other, but some forced proximity brings them closer together- not only do they work together, but they also have to share a cottage. There’s quite a bit of miscommunication throughout the story, which isn’t my favorite, but each instance is cleared up fairly quickly. This would be a perfect little book for a day at the beach!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really enjoyed this book! The characters have back stories that are easy to understand. Their minor issues aren't dragged out which i appreciate.
Nate and Jess were so cute in this book in my opinion. I loved the build up between these 2 and how respectful Nate was. A REAL man! i get so tired of reading about these men that are honestly walking orange flags that are about to turn red 😅
This man is the greenest flag! He's so sweet to her!
Jess is a beautiful soul as well! She fights her feelings but its worth the read !I received an ARC but i will be getting a trophy for my shelf! This is perfect for those that don't like spice !
Nate and Jess were so cute in this book in my opinion. I loved the build up between these 2 and how respectful Nate was. A REAL man! i get so tired of reading about these men that are honestly walking orange flags that are about to turn red 😅
This man is the greenest flag! He's so sweet to her!
Jess is a beautiful soul as well! She fights her feelings but its worth the read !I received an ARC but i will be getting a trophy for my shelf! This is perfect for those that don't like spice !
Review of advance copy received from Author
Starring Role is a upcoming contemporary novel that cebters around two people finding love while filming a movie. I will say I found this story to be very adorable and I was glad that I took the opportunity to read it. We are introduced to Nate who is dealing with a breakup abd decides to film a movie. His costar Jess is a dead Ringer for his ex but despite this he still decides to work with her. However, as time goes on he starts to develop all sort of feelibgs for her. Will he allow his damaged heart to heal and move on?
Review of advance copy
I’m not typically a romance fan, but Starring Role hooked me. The tension building between Nate and Jess is thrilling and reminds me of all the best parts of a budding love. If only there were more Nates in the world. He may be fictional, but he had this reader swooning. On another note, I learned so much about midwifery and the birthing process. Starring Role is a truly heart-racing yet insightful read. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has a lot going for it. Both main characters are nicely fleshed out and thoughtfully presented. The setting is fairly unique, being a film set, I haven’t read many books about movie making. The author makes some really interesting points about natural child birth through the conversations between characters, since the main female character is a midwife. It was very educational.
I received a complimentary advance reader copy directly from the author so that I could provide a review.
I received a complimentary advance reader copy directly from the author so that I could provide a review.
February 1, 2026
A dual POV strangers to more romance with a forced proximity trope. Eden had great character builds and really brought the reader into the story.
Tess is a late 20’s midwife who hasn’t given up her party-going just yet. Her parents weren’t good role models when it came to commitment. A co-worker/mentor of hers is set to be a consultant on a miniseries near her home but can’t fulfill the role last minute so she asked Tess to. She isn’t very confident that she can help when it comes to mid-wifery in the 1950’s.
Nate is the lead actor/doctor on the show and when he sees Tess is immediately put off by her looks. She is very attractive but could be a doppelgänger of his ex. Needless to say, they do not have a meet cute. Through trials of many kinds including being forced to share a cottage with one bedroom, they get to know each other better. Time is almost up and he is returning to London where he is from as soon as the show wraps up.
How can they make things work? Can she move past her hurts, can he?
Potential sensitive issues : there is talk of pre-marital sex, but none happening within the story, cheating, and a same-sex couple later in the book. None of which deterred me from reading or finishing the ARC I received.
#arcread #closeddoorromance #forcedproximityromance
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Tess is a late 20’s midwife who hasn’t given up her party-going just yet. Her parents weren’t good role models when it came to commitment. A co-worker/mentor of hers is set to be a consultant on a miniseries near her home but can’t fulfill the role last minute so she asked Tess to. She isn’t very confident that she can help when it comes to mid-wifery in the 1950’s.
Nate is the lead actor/doctor on the show and when he sees Tess is immediately put off by her looks. She is very attractive but could be a doppelgänger of his ex. Needless to say, they do not have a meet cute. Through trials of many kinds including being forced to share a cottage with one bedroom, they get to know each other better. Time is almost up and he is returning to London where he is from as soon as the show wraps up.
How can they make things work? Can she move past her hurts, can he?
Potential sensitive issues : there is talk of pre-marital sex, but none happening within the story, cheating, and a same-sex couple later in the book. None of which deterred me from reading or finishing the ARC I received.
#arcread #closeddoorromance #forcedproximityromance
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced reader copy of this book.
This book is labeled as a "sweet romance" and that's exactly what it is. it is wholesome and pure. There is no spice, very little conflict, and a whole lot of happy coincidences. It's a story of two nice people who find themselves in forced proximity and feelings are bound to grow.
This was a very quick and light read. If you are looking for something that is not dark and serious, or are a no-spice romance reader, this might be a book for you.
This book is labeled as a "sweet romance" and that's exactly what it is. it is wholesome and pure. There is no spice, very little conflict, and a whole lot of happy coincidences. It's a story of two nice people who find themselves in forced proximity and feelings are bound to grow.
This was a very quick and light read. If you are looking for something that is not dark and serious, or are a no-spice romance reader, this might be a book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I REALLY loved this story! It was fun, easy read and the characters were so enjoyable! The storyline was fast paced and I didn't want to put it down! I really loved the doctor/midwife dynamics! The banter and tension were topnotch!
Thank you so much to the author for an early advanced copy!
Thank you so much to the author for an early advanced copy!
March 2, 2026
I thought this book followed the troupe romantic formula to the T in a good way. There was nothing to heavy about the character’s storylines so it made it a light read. Only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is I wish there was more playful banter between the main characters.
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