What do you think?
Rate this book
Freeze Frame
Brokenhearted over the death of her big brother, famously private pop star Jessie Raina is barely managing to keep her career and family together, until little brother Luca's latest screw-up gives a notorious paparazzo a free pass to expose the most intimate details of her life. But this photographer is far more than he seems, and Jessie may soon find that her most hated enemy is the best friend she'll ever have...
War photojournalist Neil Carter can't believe his luck--unrestricted access to the world's biggest pop star. Once he sells his latest batch of candids of the reclusive Jessie, he'll have more than enough money to fund a trip back to the latest hot zone, to take the pictures that actually mean something to him. But Jessie gets under his skin in a way no woman ever has, and cynical Neil discovers that love can blossom in the most unexpected places...
*A twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope. No cheating, no cliffhangers...a real romance, with some steam.
War photojournalist Neil Carter can't believe his luck--unrestricted access to the world's biggest pop star. Once he sells his latest batch of candids of the reclusive Jessie, he'll have more than enough money to fund a trip back to the latest hot zone, to take the pictures that actually mean something to him. But Jessie gets under his skin in a way no woman ever has, and cynical Neil discovers that love can blossom in the most unexpected places...
*A twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope. No cheating, no cliffhangers...a real romance, with some steam.
124 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2017
4 people want to read
About the author
Mary B. Rodgers
6 books7 followersA career performer and storyteller, Mary was the keyboardist and lead vocalist in an all-female rock band for a number of years, and has acted in leading roles in plays and musicals across the globe.
Her first screenplay, Common Ground, was a finalist in the Moondance International Film Festival competition, and she is a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild/AFTRA and the New York chapter of Women in Film and Television. A novelist of futuristic thrillers and contemporary romance, her writing has also appeared in Expanded Horizons and the Los Angeles Review of Books.
As an avid gamer and unrepentant nerd, Mary’s been a fan of romance, science fiction and fantasy novels since she was old enough to hide them between the pages of her textbooks during geometry class in high school. She hopes you enjoy her stories!
For her thrillers, follow her under M. Rodgers on Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/m-rod...
For her contemporary romance, follow her under Mary B. Rodgers on Bookbub
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-...
Her first screenplay, Common Ground, was a finalist in the Moondance International Film Festival competition, and she is a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild/AFTRA and the New York chapter of Women in Film and Television. A novelist of futuristic thrillers and contemporary romance, her writing has also appeared in Expanded Horizons and the Los Angeles Review of Books.
As an avid gamer and unrepentant nerd, Mary’s been a fan of romance, science fiction and fantasy novels since she was old enough to hide them between the pages of her textbooks during geometry class in high school. She hopes you enjoy her stories!
For her thrillers, follow her under M. Rodgers on Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/m-rod...
For her contemporary romance, follow her under Mary B. Rodgers on Bookbub
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 11, 2018
A stalker-azzi/paparazzi is invited to shadow a popular singer, inviting the world into her private life- This is what the book is about because the popular singer who is trying to control letting the media in regarding her family drama regarding her brother and his death in order to keep the media from finding out more about her messed up life, she has to play nice and let the paparazzi into her life , as it is and from there Neil and Jessie spend more time together, they both get a deeper understanding of each other. We find out Neil doesn’t like his job as a photographer and wants to find a job that he loves doing and gets a job where he makes money doing something he enjoys making money and likes doing what he does, not hates. The more time Neil and Jessie spend together romance blooms yet there is this push/pull between them. . The more the story went, the secondary characters were fleshed out and the main characters became even more animated. I liked where the story was headed and cant wait to read more from this author. Do Neil and Jessie end up together? Only way to find out is to read this book!!
My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
December 18, 2017
Freeze Frame (Superstars Book 2) written by Mary B. Rodgers is a wonderfully written romance novel. This is the second book in the Superstars series, and is just as good as the first! I love how the title plays on the basis of this short read. Jessie is a reclusive pop star, who likes to keep her private life out of the public eye. She is dealing with the loss of her older brother, and her younger brother exposes her life to the public. Neil Carter is a photographer with a passion for photographing the struggles of war, but has made himself Jessie’s enemy number one for exposing her private life. This story finds two unlikely lovers coming together under the strangest of circumstances. This book is well written and the reader is left with a satisfying romance story. I found the development of Jessie throughout the book really brings the reader into her life. I enjoyed the different perspectives (alternating between Jessie and Neil) as it gives the reader a chance to see where each character is coming from and understand the choices made. Great book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2018
I was given a copy of this to review.
Even thought this was a short read I did feel like it had everything we needed to make this a great read. I felt bad for Neil because he wanted so much more for his career. Although, if he wasn't doing a crappy job he never would have met the woman of his dreams. The other thing I liked was how Jessica was nothing like what I was expecting. She was a lot better. Which made this story a good one.
Even thought this was a short read I did feel like it had everything we needed to make this a great read. I felt bad for Neil because he wanted so much more for his career. Although, if he wasn't doing a crappy job he never would have met the woman of his dreams. The other thing I liked was how Jessica was nothing like what I was expecting. She was a lot better. Which made this story a good one.
April 8, 2018
4 Stars
Overall, an entertaining read with a unique premise. A stalker-azzi/paparazzi is invited to shadow a popular singer, inviting the world into her private life, grief and family drama. As Neil and Jessie spend more time together, they both get a deeper understanding of each other and their connection to military and it's casualties becomes their common link.
What was to be a short and light romance, becomes something much deeper as the author addresses loss, grief, and PTSD. It was quite original how the author included the effects of war on both main characters. Their involvements with the military were peripheral, but just as devastating. The romance was sweet in its development and easy to connect with and root for. For me, the best part of the story came with the collaboration between both Neil, Jessie, and their artistic abilities. Obviously the author's work in film, TV and screenwriting enhanced the final few chapters, because they were amazing! The stage and lyric details were moving, at the least. My reason for not giving the story 5 stars, is the smexy scene towards the end. It felt out of character and awkward. Who these two people were throughout the entire story became two other people during this scene and the story lost its fluidity. Other than that, it was a near perfect romantic story. I would definitely read more from this author in the future. (This is my voluntary and unbiased review of a complimentary copy of Freeze Frame via Hidden Gems)
Overall, an entertaining read with a unique premise. A stalker-azzi/paparazzi is invited to shadow a popular singer, inviting the world into her private life, grief and family drama. As Neil and Jessie spend more time together, they both get a deeper understanding of each other and their connection to military and it's casualties becomes their common link.
What was to be a short and light romance, becomes something much deeper as the author addresses loss, grief, and PTSD. It was quite original how the author included the effects of war on both main characters. Their involvements with the military were peripheral, but just as devastating. The romance was sweet in its development and easy to connect with and root for. For me, the best part of the story came with the collaboration between both Neil, Jessie, and their artistic abilities. Obviously the author's work in film, TV and screenwriting enhanced the final few chapters, because they were amazing! The stage and lyric details were moving, at the least. My reason for not giving the story 5 stars, is the smexy scene towards the end. It felt out of character and awkward. Who these two people were throughout the entire story became two other people during this scene and the story lost its fluidity. Other than that, it was a near perfect romantic story. I would definitely read more from this author in the future. (This is my voluntary and unbiased review of a complimentary copy of Freeze Frame via Hidden Gems)
December 12, 2017
This book was an unexpected surprise, in my opinion; other authors of this genre should look for this book as an example on how to innovate with love stories.
While our protagonist, Jesse at first seems a little one-dimensional, everything evolves nicely with a lot of development coming from the recent death of her brother. It is known how ‘empty’ the life of stars and celebrities are, and with Jesse there is no exception, is not until she allowed a curious photographer an opportunity to know her life that everything start to change for better.
There is a lot of chemistry going on here and that is a good sign on how great these characters are written, the emotions displayed here, everything feels real, the sense of grief and a renewed purpose in life, and that very foundation be the power of love, a truly inspiring story that I think no one should miss, it’s not a typical love story.
While our protagonist, Jesse at first seems a little one-dimensional, everything evolves nicely with a lot of development coming from the recent death of her brother. It is known how ‘empty’ the life of stars and celebrities are, and with Jesse there is no exception, is not until she allowed a curious photographer an opportunity to know her life that everything start to change for better.
There is a lot of chemistry going on here and that is a good sign on how great these characters are written, the emotions displayed here, everything feels real, the sense of grief and a renewed purpose in life, and that very foundation be the power of love, a truly inspiring story that I think no one should miss, it’s not a typical love story.
December 28, 2017
This romance hits all the right spots and checks all the boxes that you would expect to and it is worthy of reading, if you like that genre.
The story is very familiar and it constantly gives of the vibe that you heard it somewhere already. Famous and pretty popstar has to let a paparazzo into her life because of her brother and his mishaps. The photographer doesn't like his job and wants to earn some money to do what he actually loves. And, of course, romance blossoms between them, with inevitable push-pull chemistry. Like I said, nothing spectacularly original, but the writing is good, and I really liked the love scenes, they are wonderful. Also, as the plot progresses, characters become somewhat deeper and more rounded, not just the cardboard cutouts that they seem like in the beginning. For a romance book, this is very good and you can count on some really lovely, emotional love scenes and a feel-good vibe after reading it, and that is more than enough.
The story is very familiar and it constantly gives of the vibe that you heard it somewhere already. Famous and pretty popstar has to let a paparazzo into her life because of her brother and his mishaps. The photographer doesn't like his job and wants to earn some money to do what he actually loves. And, of course, romance blossoms between them, with inevitable push-pull chemistry. Like I said, nothing spectacularly original, but the writing is good, and I really liked the love scenes, they are wonderful. Also, as the plot progresses, characters become somewhat deeper and more rounded, not just the cardboard cutouts that they seem like in the beginning. For a romance book, this is very good and you can count on some really lovely, emotional love scenes and a feel-good vibe after reading it, and that is more than enough.
December 8, 2017
Freeze Frame is the second book in Mary B. Rodgers’ Superstars series. This novel tells the story of Jessie Raina, a popular singer who is currently going through some personal problems. Raina is very private with her life so not much is known about it, but when her brother exposes it without her permission it brings a whole new level of turmoil.
Once this occurs, Neil Carter is assigned to document Raina’s now exposed life with photographs, however, while it seems he is destined to be Raina’s nemesis a turn of events might end up changing that. The novel alternates between Neil and Jessie’s perspectives which helps the reader to better understand their thoughts and feelings.
This book is perfect for those who enjoy the romance genre. At 124 pages long it isn’t that long of a read which makes it ideal for those looking for a quick yet well-written novel to enjoy.
Once this occurs, Neil Carter is assigned to document Raina’s now exposed life with photographs, however, while it seems he is destined to be Raina’s nemesis a turn of events might end up changing that. The novel alternates between Neil and Jessie’s perspectives which helps the reader to better understand their thoughts and feelings.
This book is perfect for those who enjoy the romance genre. At 124 pages long it isn’t that long of a read which makes it ideal for those looking for a quick yet well-written novel to enjoy.
December 8, 2017
Freeze Frame is the second book in a series that portrays Jessie Raina. In this book, we are confronted with a heartbroken Jessie, completely devastated by the death of her brother. She is a global pop star, constantly stalked by everyone, especially by paparazzi, always trying to get the best shot to expose her intimacy.
This is a tale of modern days, actually. The author does a pretty good job describing the downside of fame, the lack of privacy, not being able to trust even the ones closest to you. The story is solid and has a good pace. Jessie is great but I actually prefer the photographer, Neil Carter, torn between the easy money from paparazzi and his true love photojournalism. It’s a nice romance, very modern, with good characters and some steamy passages. I haven’t read the first book of the series and didn’t have a problem following the story.
This is a tale of modern days, actually. The author does a pretty good job describing the downside of fame, the lack of privacy, not being able to trust even the ones closest to you. The story is solid and has a good pace. Jessie is great but I actually prefer the photographer, Neil Carter, torn between the easy money from paparazzi and his true love photojournalism. It’s a nice romance, very modern, with good characters and some steamy passages. I haven’t read the first book of the series and didn’t have a problem following the story.
December 11, 2017
Freeze Frame by Mary B. Rodgers is a quick read that is both satisfying and a lot romantic. As a music star, Jessie tries to maintain a certain level of privacy, but when her brother messes up big time, she has to re-examine her life. When a talented paparazzi photographer enters her life, Jessie knows things are about to change in a very positive way, the only question is, is she ready? This story is solid romance at it's finest, written in a captivating way, and will restore your faith in an honest to goodness feel good story. Some steamy passages further along the story in an exciting way, and truly add to the passion and love that is felt by the main characters. The alternating chapters help to get a good understanding of the motivations behind Jessie's and Neil's actions. Overall, a quick, fun read, with an important message about fame.
December 18, 2017
Mary B. Rodgers’, “Freeze Frame (Superstars Book 2),” is a realistic portrayal of the suffering that all individuals can experience, no matter their status in life. Jessie is a famous pop star that hides in the shadows, but the loss of her older brother begins to wear her down and make life even more difficult for her to endure. Due to her younger brother’s idiocy, Neil ends up in Jessie’s life, a photographer that is just looking at a way to supplement his chance to get back to what he truly loves, the war zone. Eventually, he learns that there is more to her than the superficial propaganda that is present in society and it forces him to question what he does and how it plays into other individuals’ lives. It is obviously a cliché story, but I did thoroughly enjoy it nevertheless, because it connects to the inner experiences of humanity.
January 13, 2018
Although this formula seems to be done time and again, this story still left an original mark that kept the book interesting and heart warming. The author has a brilliant way of developing characters as the story goes along, so it feels like you are getting to know them, rather than simply being thrown into their lives. I found this to be particularly enjoyable and it helped me to stay interested in the plot. Most romance novels tend to follow a basic formula, but this one does add in some amazing details that helps it stand out from the crowd. I would recommend this book to anyone that follows the romance genre closely as it will add a fun touch to your weekend reading marathon. The book is fairly short too, so you can easily move through the story in one sitting, so you can get the most out of the beautiful romance that unfolds.
December 26, 2017
This unexpected romance novel had me all invested in Jessie's happiness. One bad situation after another is exhausting enough, then throw some pesky photographers in the mix would make anyone frustrated. Neil is, fortunately, the one unlikely saving grace that can bring some stability to her life. As long as he doesn’t act like a jerk. Neil made me nervous throughout the entire book.
Anyways, I really enjoyed the book overall and felt the author developed the characters very well. I felt invested in the characters with these very potentially real situations. Their forbidden romance is classic but the development and background story of these two I found to be very fresh. It is easy to get lost in their story and cheering for Neil to not to act like a jerk and support Jessie.
Anyways, I really enjoyed the book overall and felt the author developed the characters very well. I felt invested in the characters with these very potentially real situations. Their forbidden romance is classic but the development and background story of these two I found to be very fresh. It is easy to get lost in their story and cheering for Neil to not to act like a jerk and support Jessie.
December 8, 2017
Private pop stars life goes public
This is the story of Jessie trying to keep her life private while being in the limelight as a music star when her brother exposes her secrets and makes her private life very public. Faced with this new delima, Jessie discovers the man who seems to always be close by taking pictures and intruding on her privacy. Will she regain the privacy she seeks, will she discover a hidden romance with the man tasked with documenting her life? Good story that is well written with developed characters. This is the second book in an intriguing series. Check this one out as it is a quick fun read.
This is the story of Jessie trying to keep her life private while being in the limelight as a music star when her brother exposes her secrets and makes her private life very public. Faced with this new delima, Jessie discovers the man who seems to always be close by taking pictures and intruding on her privacy. Will she regain the privacy she seeks, will she discover a hidden romance with the man tasked with documenting her life? Good story that is well written with developed characters. This is the second book in an intriguing series. Check this one out as it is a quick fun read.
December 12, 2017
An exciting, fast paced romantic story of the pop star Jessie, who likes her private life, but it gets exposed by her brother. She found about the photographer who is close to her and takes her pictures. Jessie wants to regain her private life so, makes a deal with this photographer to follow her on the tour instead making the photograph public. Well, now here is the twists, where Jessie now has the choice is to get private life back or fall for this man she has always needed. The story highlights the difficult life of celebrities who are in the limelight all the time, but are quite lonely and want to have a private life.
December 14, 2017
Freeze Frame gives you a little perspective of the lack of privacy pop stars face as they travel for concerts. But in Jessie Raina’s case it worked out for the best. To protect the innocence of her grieving brother she allows the photographer who had been stalking her to travel with her entourage, with one stipulation.
Jess has to allow Neil time with her for the photos she promised, but she never expected him to be the one that connects with her brother. This causes her to really look at him and she realizes she likes what she sees, but shouldn’t. This sweet love story shows love can come when two people lay aside their differences and allow their hearts to reign.
Jess has to allow Neil time with her for the photos she promised, but she never expected him to be the one that connects with her brother. This causes her to really look at him and she realizes she likes what she sees, but shouldn’t. This sweet love story shows love can come when two people lay aside their differences and allow their hearts to reign.
December 29, 2017
Just when she thought things couldn’t get any worse, one loose end lands her personal life in the wrong hands. Jessie Raina is a world known pop star and for the most part sticks to her music not letting her personal life become a topic for the magazines.
I love any good romance novel and Freeze Frame was no different! Each time you think you have it all figured out and then the author throws you a curve ball. This is the second in a series, but I read it and didn't miss a beat. This novel brings two VERY different people together, I don’t want to spoil anything but I would highly recommend this book!
I love any good romance novel and Freeze Frame was no different! Each time you think you have it all figured out and then the author throws you a curve ball. This is the second in a series, but I read it and didn't miss a beat. This novel brings two VERY different people together, I don’t want to spoil anything but I would highly recommend this book!
April 13, 2018
This is the first book I have read in this series and I am looking forward to reading the first one soon it was really well written and a great romance.Jessie Raina is a singer and is going through a really hard time at the moment to help her brother she has agreed to have Neil Carter into her life and photograph her.He does not really want to be there and she does not want him there.I liked watching these two together and really liked how their relationship developed
April 13, 2018
Jess was on the road singing to large crowds. Neil was looking for that one picture that will make his career. Two people living two separate lives find a connection of the heart. Is it possible to fall for someone who lives their life making money off your struggles? I enjoyed their story as they both dealt with their inner struggles in search of a HEA
November 15, 2025
I thought it was a good short read. It definitely started out strong but lot some steam 2/3rd in. Jessie is a singer who agrees to let Neil, a photojournalist turned paparazzi, get an exclusive of her so that she can shield her brother. I liked the author's writing style. There were also meaningful moments within the book but I wished it was longer.
April 7, 2018
This story takes you on an emotional journey through grief, anger & love. Jess & Luca are struggling with the loss of their brother, while Neil has scars of his. Together, their struggles & lives intersect to become a beautiful story.
April 12, 2018
This is a short emotionally charged read. The storyline is very good, with defined characters love, loss, and chemistry. I liked it. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews