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The Spark Brothers #5
An Extra Spark
He’s an actor pressured to risk everything for his job. She’s an actress struggling to fit into the Hollywood scene. Little do they know how much they will be tested when they are forced to keep their love a secret.
Evan Spark grew up in the shadow of four older brothers, but he’s finally found his own place in the limelight on primetime TV. His job, with the best fans and a chance to work with the love of his life, is everything he ever wanted ... except for the flirty costar who’s set her eyes—and lips!—on him.
The last thing shy and unassuming Emma Dearan expects is to land a role as an extra on Edenvale and to win the heart of its leading man. With the reassurance of a “no kissing” clause in her contract, she’s finally feeling at home in the spotlight, on screen and off—until the executive producer’s daughter forces her to choose between a promotion or her boyfriend.
The longer they keep their relationship under wraps, the harder it is to know what’s real. As the paparazzi zero in on their secrets, they must learn to discern the truth from the lies. Will the hazards of show business spark new insecurities or strengthen their bond of trust?
Each book in the Spark Brothers series is a standalone and can be read separately. To follow the stories as they occur in the overall timeline, feel free to read them in this order:
Evan Spark grew up in the shadow of four older brothers, but he’s finally found his own place in the limelight on primetime TV. His job, with the best fans and a chance to work with the love of his life, is everything he ever wanted ... except for the flirty costar who’s set her eyes—and lips!—on him.
The last thing shy and unassuming Emma Dearan expects is to land a role as an extra on Edenvale and to win the heart of its leading man. With the reassurance of a “no kissing” clause in her contract, she’s finally feeling at home in the spotlight, on screen and off—until the executive producer’s daughter forces her to choose between a promotion or her boyfriend.
The longer they keep their relationship under wraps, the harder it is to know what’s real. As the paparazzi zero in on their secrets, they must learn to discern the truth from the lies. Will the hazards of show business spark new insecurities or strengthen their bond of trust?
Each book in the Spark Brothers series is a standalone and can be read separately. To follow the stories as they occur in the overall timeline, feel free to read them in this order:
A Single Spark - Book One
A Sudden Spark - Book Two
The Sweetest Spark - Book Three
At First Spark - Book Four
An Extra Spark - Book Five
168 pages, ebook
Published September 19, 2019
About the author
Liwen Y. Ho
100 books350 followersUSA Today bestselling author Liwen Y. Ho works as a chauffeur and chef by day (AKA a stay at home mom) and a writer by night. Her strength is in creating character-driven, deep POV romance infused with faith, humor, and happy ever afters.
In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. She loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children (AKA munchkins).
Sign up for Liwen's newsletter for news about her upcoming releases, book giveaways and more at http://liwenho.com/free-book!
In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. She loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children (AKA munchkins).
Sign up for Liwen's newsletter for news about her upcoming releases, book giveaways and more at http://liwenho.com/free-book!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 14, 2019
“There are plenty of times when we can’t change the circumstances, and the circumstances end up changing us. But we can choose whether we end up changing for the better or for worse.”
Oh, what a satisfying, fulfilling conclusion to The Sparks Brothers Series! I have followed the series from the beginning and loved getting to know Aiden, Brandon, Colin, and Darren. But Evan! He’s the darling of the family and also the youngest. And so honorable, compassionate, loving, and passionate. His relationship with Emma is incredibly sweet, pure, and delightful. Emma is an unlikely Hollywood hopeful with her shy, innocent, and naive nature but they make a great team together. Their trials, doubts, challenges, and insecurities while working in Hollywood are real and tangible as is their solid faith in God and in each other that help them thrive.
For those who enjoy well-written, short, sweet, and encouraging contemporary romance, this book (and the entire series) is for you! I can’t wait to read more about Seth, Brandon’s adopted son, in the author’s next YA series.
I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Oh, what a satisfying, fulfilling conclusion to The Sparks Brothers Series! I have followed the series from the beginning and loved getting to know Aiden, Brandon, Colin, and Darren. But Evan! He’s the darling of the family and also the youngest. And so honorable, compassionate, loving, and passionate. His relationship with Emma is incredibly sweet, pure, and delightful. Emma is an unlikely Hollywood hopeful with her shy, innocent, and naive nature but they make a great team together. Their trials, doubts, challenges, and insecurities while working in Hollywood are real and tangible as is their solid faith in God and in each other that help them thrive.
For those who enjoy well-written, short, sweet, and encouraging contemporary romance, this book (and the entire series) is for you! I can’t wait to read more about Seth, Brandon’s adopted son, in the author’s next YA series.
I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
October 11, 2021
Well, the last book in this series was so full. The two in this story seem to keep getting roadblocks thrown at them. They both love each other but it seems that there are others who are trying to tear them apart. Can their love for each other stand strong? You need to read this last story so you can see how Evan and Emma overcome their demons.
Now, I have to be honest, there were a couple of times I wanted to yell at the characters to open their eyes and see what was truly happening. To not believe all that they read!
This is what makes a wonderful author. When you get so wrapped up in the story you feel you are actually friends with the characters, and you want to help them along.
The relationships with friends and families are so real. When we can put ourselves in the characters’ lives and understand the pains and joys, that is what makes a book great! This author has done that!
I have come to really enjoy reading books written by Liwen Y. Ho her writing is smooth and the story flows with wonderful characters and dialogue. I had a problem of not wanting to put this book down. It truly was enjoyable! I was truly caught up in the story and didn’t want it to end. I loved how she also wrapped the whole series up with all the characters from the other books. What fun! You can truly feel like they are a big, wonderful family!
This is a delightful book to read, I highly recommend you pick it and the whole series up and start reading now!
Now, I have to be honest, there were a couple of times I wanted to yell at the characters to open their eyes and see what was truly happening. To not believe all that they read!
This is what makes a wonderful author. When you get so wrapped up in the story you feel you are actually friends with the characters, and you want to help them along.
The relationships with friends and families are so real. When we can put ourselves in the characters’ lives and understand the pains and joys, that is what makes a book great! This author has done that!
I have come to really enjoy reading books written by Liwen Y. Ho her writing is smooth and the story flows with wonderful characters and dialogue. I had a problem of not wanting to put this book down. It truly was enjoyable! I was truly caught up in the story and didn’t want it to end. I loved how she also wrapped the whole series up with all the characters from the other books. What fun! You can truly feel like they are a big, wonderful family!
This is a delightful book to read, I highly recommend you pick it and the whole series up and start reading now!
September 19, 2019
What a great wrap-up to the Spark brothers’ trials and tribulations. Here we have Evan and Emma with their faith on the line. How do they deal and cope with the pressures of life, bosses, fans, and careers … especially when in a bubble of fame and fortune?
As an actor or actress, where do you draw the line? Choices have to be made. And, as we all know choices most likely aren’t clear cut, easy or obvious, especially when outside factors and pressures are constantly on the scene. How will all this impact and affect Evan and Emma? Will their faith take a beating? Can they survive in this world of fake and pretend?
Very good read with realistic issues to be conquered.
I have enjoyed reading all of the books in this series and jumped on the chance to read and review this one when offered an advanced reader copy. So many times the last book in a series is disappointing, but not this one…. It does not disappoint.
As an actor or actress, where do you draw the line? Choices have to be made. And, as we all know choices most likely aren’t clear cut, easy or obvious, especially when outside factors and pressures are constantly on the scene. How will all this impact and affect Evan and Emma? Will their faith take a beating? Can they survive in this world of fake and pretend?
Very good read with realistic issues to be conquered.
I have enjoyed reading all of the books in this series and jumped on the chance to read and review this one when offered an advanced reader copy. So many times the last book in a series is disappointing, but not this one…. It does not disappoint.
July 31, 2020
I liked this book the least of the series.
2.5 stars
2.5 stars
May 31, 2023
Evan is an actor on a primetime soap where he has to kiss different women all the time. The only woman he wants to kiss is his girlfriend and co-star Emma. However, because of complications brought on by the paparazzi and Margot, the producer's daughter, they are keeping their relationship a secret. Margot has eyes for Evan, as they portray a couple on the show. Evan keeps pushing her away, insisting that there is nothing between them. Margot just keeps pressing harder, coming up with ways for them to be together on and off set. The more Evan pushes away from Margot, she begins to threaten him with Emma's job. Evan has to go along with what Margot wants but it causes problems in his relationship with Emma. Evan and Emma must fight doubts in their relationship and trust that God has a plan to see them through the chaos of being in the spotlight.
This is the final book in the Spark Brothers series. I have really enjoyed each book in this series. Each one has sweet romance and a wonderful faith element. I always enjoy seeing the characters from the other books make appearances too. This book had a fun element with the couple already together at the beginning of the story but having to keep their relationship quiet. I was annoyed with Margot throughout the book but that was her job, to be an annoying character so I guess she succeeded in that. I thought it was interesting to see a couple deal with the demands of acting and the toll that takes on a relationship. Emma and Evan were likeable but not my favorite couple in the series either. All in all, a cute romance and a really enjoyable series as a whole.
This is the final book in the Spark Brothers series. I have really enjoyed each book in this series. Each one has sweet romance and a wonderful faith element. I always enjoy seeing the characters from the other books make appearances too. This book had a fun element with the couple already together at the beginning of the story but having to keep their relationship quiet. I was annoyed with Margot throughout the book but that was her job, to be an annoying character so I guess she succeeded in that. I thought it was interesting to see a couple deal with the demands of acting and the toll that takes on a relationship. Emma and Evan were likeable but not my favorite couple in the series either. All in all, a cute romance and a really enjoyable series as a whole.
August 3, 2025
I know this book is supposed to be a sweet romance but it really opened my eyes to the emotional roadblocks of dating someone in Hollywood. How would you know if the feeling were really real or if your partner was just acting? How would you know if your partner was just a good actor or if there was more than acting going on between your partner and the costar? How could you ever be comfortable about your partner acting out a bedroom scene with someone else? This book depicts all this and more in the final saga of the Sparks brothers series.
November 4, 2021
What's Real or What's Not?
It's the final novel in the Five Sparks brothers novels. The youngest brother is Evan, an actor. He's on a weekly tv show about a teenage heart throb at a high school. He has to kiss a number of actresses who play girlfriends. He really hates it because none are his real secret girl friend. Then one of the actresses takes it too far. Liwen Y. Ho has done a great job showing the pressure on young actors with Christian principles.
It's the final novel in the Five Sparks brothers novels. The youngest brother is Evan, an actor. He's on a weekly tv show about a teenage heart throb at a high school. He has to kiss a number of actresses who play girlfriends. He really hates it because none are his real secret girl friend. Then one of the actresses takes it too far. Liwen Y. Ho has done a great job showing the pressure on young actors with Christian principles.
June 23, 2022
Wonderful Series
I loved the Spark Brothers series! From the first book, to the last, it was so awesome to read about people living their daily lives in Christ and even having some of the same struggles as me! Reading about each brother falling in love from a Christian perspective was the icing on top!!
I loved the Spark Brothers series! From the first book, to the last, it was so awesome to read about people living their daily lives in Christ and even having some of the same struggles as me! Reading about each brother falling in love from a Christian perspective was the icing on top!!
January 17, 2023
I had a free copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Evan Spark, teen heartthrob is secretly dating coworker Emma Dearen. Their faith helps them maneuver through the Hollywood quagmire when their producer’s daughter has designs on Evan and tires to cause them problems. A great book full of faith and situations unique to Hollywood. A great read.
July 12, 2023
I loved this actor romance! It was great. I loved the heavy amount of actual filming and actress/actor life that was portrayed. It was a thrilling Hollywood romance. I love the different perspectives and the showing of being a Christian in Hollywood and the choices that have to get made. It was a great story!
July 28, 2023
This series was very enjoyable to read! It is a God-given talent indeed when you feel as though you're acquainting yourself with the characters with each page! I'm looking forward to reading more by this author!
May 14, 2024
I enjoyed this romance that has to endure a ruthless star wanting her way and willing to manipulate everyone to get it. I enjoyed the sweet way that Emma had about her as well as her willingness to speak up about issues instead of just letting herself be walked over.
October 25, 2024
Evan and Emma's story is filled with emotion. As actors, their lives were anything but quiet but when Evan's leading lady, Margot, starts causing contentions, Emma finds her true self. A delightful story!
April 8, 2020
Trust, not drama
I can’t imagine the life of an actor and actress. When we feel insecure, we can trust God and our loved one and that helps love to remain stable. Very good!
I can’t imagine the life of an actor and actress. When we feel insecure, we can trust God and our loved one and that helps love to remain stable. Very good!
April 22, 2020
Another good one
I've really enjoyed getting to know the "Sparks" brothers and their family. I loved the support they gave each other and their spiritual struggles and growth.
I've really enjoyed getting to know the "Sparks" brothers and their family. I loved the support they gave each other and their spiritual struggles and growth.
July 5, 2020
I have no idea what the Hollywood scene entails, but this book definitely gave some perspective! I was so impressed that Evan and Emma fought for each other. What love!
April 7, 2021
Great ending to a great series! I have really enjoyed this series, it was a fun one to read.
December 15, 2022
This whole series is amazing! Aiden, Brandon, Collin, Darren and Evan are some of the sweetest brothers around.
September 8, 2023
A sweet story to end the series. Emma was so relatable with her issues with conflict. Evan was sweet but not perfect.
October 14, 2023
great book
This was a great book. I love this author. I highly recommend this book and author. I can’t wait to read the next book by this author.
This was a great book. I love this author. I highly recommend this book and author. I can’t wait to read the next book by this author.
March 2, 2024
I love how these two make each other stronger and my self assured
Read
July 10, 2024I enjoyed this one and loved seeing all the couples from the other stories. ♡
August 5, 2024
Good Book
Enjoyed all the books in this series. They were all quick reads that kept my interest. Very light reading that you could read and relax too.
Enjoyed all the books in this series. They were all quick reads that kept my interest. Very light reading that you could read and relax too.
December 12, 2024
Re An Extra Spark
A great read !! Thank you for the enjoyable experience !! I am looking forward to reading your next exciting series !! Keep up the great work, and God Bless You !!
A great read !! Thank you for the enjoyable experience !! I am looking forward to reading your next exciting series !! Keep up the great work, and God Bless You !!
February 24, 2025
This is such a wonderful series!! I'm looking forward to Edenvale!
October 16, 2025
Nice finish to this series. Evan and Emma were very cute.
May 8, 2024
A good ending to a great series. This one dealt with a world that very few of us are part of. The entertainment industry, and all that it asks of those involved. Watching Evan and Emma navigate that world really caused me to stop and think about how it has to affect relationships and how it has to be a challenge to a Believer’s faith.
June 10, 2025
Nothing like a Spark
This series was amazing. The five brothers go through trials, some like every day people and some wilder things. With drama, suspense, doubts and fears, they come back to their faith and loved one’s.
This series was amazing. The five brothers go through trials, some like every day people and some wilder things. With drama, suspense, doubts and fears, they come back to their faith and loved one’s.
September 12, 2019
Evan and Emma are actors who met on the set of a wildly popular teen soap opera TV show and fell in love in real life. This book explores the challenges of remaining true to one's faith while dealing with the pressures and fakeness of Hollywood. Entertainment has a huge influence on culture--the values and accepted behaviors of a society. I personally can't understand how an actor who is a devout Christian can portray an immoral sexual act (or the suggestion of it) especially when it will seem glamorous and appealing to a young audience. I think every aspect of our lives touches others and our jobs need to influence others for good. Evan isn't perfect but he is a very likable young man with a huge following of fans and Emma is a beautiful young woman who is slowly building her career in show business. They have very different personalities but both have some personal insecurities that present challenges as they work out their professional and personal lives. I enjoyed their thought-provoking story and loved the the HEA ending to their story. I gave this book a 4.5 instead of 5.0 since I was disappointed that Evan went along with his storyline without challenging it because he felt powerless but he forgot that he belonged to Someone who holds all of the power. I have loved this entire series and hate to see it end. Maybe we'll see glimpses of the five Spark brothers and their families in the new series to come. If you haven't read this book or others in the series I recommend them! I received an ARC and all opinions mentioned in this review are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews