Hot Earl Rory MacGinley and feisty redhead Zoe Maxwell are in love, but true love can’t save Rory’s ancestral home from falling down. When a Hollywood superstar lands on their doorstep wanting to film Braveheart 2 at Kinloch Castle, it sounds like a dream solution to all their problems. But it’s about to turn into an absolute nightmare.
A bonkers script that rewrites Scottish history, celebrities who believe in pixies and past lives, and a mystical holy man with nefarious plans. It’s not just the castle that's coming under siege.
With tensions running high and more drama behind the camera than in front of it, it’s up to Rory and Zoe to rewrite the script, save the castle’s future, and secure their happy ending.
When Hollywood meets the Highlands, things will never be the same again…
Hollywood Games is a laugh-out-loud, super-steamy, small-town romantic comedy with a guaranteed happily ever after and no cheating or cliffhanger. It can be read as a standalone but is best enjoyed after the multi-award-winning romcom, Highland Games.
Evie Alexander is a multi-award-winning author of sexy romantic comedies, blending snort-laugh humor and panty-melting chemistry into unputdownable stories that will steal your heart.
When she’s not dreaming up swoony heroes and relatable heroines, Evie can be found in the beautiful West Country of the UK, where she lives with her ridiculously patient husband, miracle daughter, and two dogs who think they run the show.
If you want to find her online, here’s where to go!
"Everything I am, and everything I have is yours." Let me start by saying I love Zoe and Rory. I loved how they met in the first book of the series, and how their relationship progressed from kind-of-enemies to lovers. Hell, I loved their meet-cute. And I absolutely adore how in love they are in this second book, but somehow that wasn't enough for me.
Very important: this is not a standalone. You won't understand what's going on if you haven't read the first book.
"Rory's heart expanded as he thought of her. She was all he'd ever wanted and so much more." After the events of the first book, we find ourselves still in Kinloch. Rory still needs to save the castle, and all the money he can get is simply not enough. So when Hollywood megastar Brad Bauer wants to shoot Braveheart 2 there, it seems way too good a chance to pass up on. Right? Wrong.
Brad and his crew essentially invade Kinloch, bringing about absolute chaos and mayhem. It's not only him, but all his entourage, his assistants, the main actress, and especially the creepy figure of Vlad, the spiritual guru or whatever he is, who sounded pretty much like Rasputin, only more modern. They basically mess up everyone's lives in one way or another, but they can't just be thrown out. Not when the castle, and the town, could profit from their presence there. They get themselves in all sorts of weird situations, some of them quite ridiculous (don't get me started on the plot for Braveheart 2!), and I suppose it was all very movie-esque, but something was off for me.
I'm adding spoilers below, click if you really want to.
"Yes. For you, anything and everything." In the end, and after so much had happened, the most surprising thing for me was Barbara, Rory's mom. I hated her in the previous book, but I've come to respect her (even if I don't like her that much yet) in this one. I loved seeing Sam and Jamie, and I honestly can't wait for them to have their own book because I think that one's going to be amazing. And, of course, I loved the ending, and the perfect couple that Zoe and Rory are.
I love grumpy, smoldering and swoony highlanders and Evie Alexander provides just such a man in Hollywood Games, a sequel to debut novel Highland Games.
Rory, Zoe, Bandit, Basil and the rest of the gang are back and they need to save Kinloch Castle when Hollywood superstar Brad Bauer shows ups with an offer they can’t refuse: to film Braveheart 2 showcasing the castle. But he has an ulterior motive to be there, can Rory and Zoe’s budding romance survive Hollywood’s invasion?
Hollywood Games is a must read after enjoying its predecessor so much. Although I was originally expecting another couple’s story, Rory and Zoe’s follow-up is just as fun, sweet, sexy and swoony. Their story provided much needed laughter and joy.
Hollywood Games is book 2 of the Kinloch series by author Evie Alexander. It is a rom-com told from both points of view with a happy ending. Tropes: small town | Scottish grumpy hero
Evie Alexander is fast rising to the top of my favorite authors list. Hollywood Game is a non-stop comedy adventure when Hollywood's top stars comes to Kinloch to film Braveheart 2. Listening to Brad Bauer describe the plot of Braveheart 2 had me howling with laughter, and that was just the start of the absurdity. All of the chaos and confusion that the stars and their entourage introduce into Rory and Zoe's lives are no match for the couple's chemistry though. Sweet, sexy, fun, and funny, I absolutely loved Hollywood Games.
Pick up this series if you are looking for a fun, funny, sexy quick read.
Sometimes when I give a book 3 stars, people say things like, "I'm sorry you didn't like this book." Can we normalize 3 stars being a good rating?? 3 stars means I liked it! For you, this might be a 5 star book. For you, it might be a book that is very much not your thing. Personally, I like a solid 3 star book - they are often books that are fun but don't challenge me. I just need to be in the right mood for them.
Hollywood Games continues the story where Highland Games left off - I wouldn't start the series here, I would start at the beginning. Check out my review of Highland Games to see if it's right for you! The rest of my review will have light spoilers for book 1, so proceed accordingly.
Hollywood Games was, for me, a great book to read when my other books were stressing me out, when I was looking for something light, funny, and sexy. I trusted the author to give us a HEA, and it was following a couple who were already together, so for me the plot was all fun and games and I didn't have the need to tear through this book to find out what happened next. It was more or less predictable, with a couple of surprises along the way.
I have some personal complaints about the book - first, the main characters are really anti vegetarian food, and I've been a vegetarian since I was 5. My other complaint is that most of the characters coming in from LA were shown as being pretty vapid, narcissistic, and ridiculous. This includes racist depictions of Native Americans, which are pointed out as being problematic by the main characters. Fortunately, there is at least one actress on set who seems to be a reasonable human being - and I'm excited to read her perspective in the next book!
So I went into this one thinking it was going to be a whole separate couple, that we would be getting Zoe’s best friend Sam’s story, since she was an actress, hence the Hollywood part of the title. Yet instead we got more of Rory and Zoe’s story. I was unsure at first, but once it all got going I was very glad that this was the story in this book. This story however introduced us to a very large cast of characters compared to the first book. But wow, it gave so many opportunities for hilariousness to ensue, and ensue it did!
Between the wonderful quirky townspeople we’d met in the last book, we had the whole range of wackiness that Hollywood can bring to a story. There was the handsome leading man that all women had crushes on with Brad Bauer. There was the snooty, eat only strange foods and follow a weird psychic gurus advice actress that was playing the part inspired by Zoe. Her crazy guru/psychic guy, who was a bit more than just out there, turned out to be a bad guy in more ways than one it seemed. There was also the actress who was just so nice and normal, playing the second wife in the movie.
Back from book one of course was Rory’s mother, who looked down her nose on Zoe and wanted to blame all their problems on her. However not only did she get the chance to see Zoe in a different light in this story, we also got a different view of her and what all she actually was like besides the evil mother of Zoe’s boyfriend. Oh, and another return from book one was one of Zoe’s panic laughing attacks, at once again an extremely awkward and hilarious moment.
All in all I was once again blown away with this story as I was with book one, Highland Games. And I’m intrigued for the next book in the series, which seems as if it will actually be a different couple, made up of people we met in this book.
"Hollywood Games" continues the story of Rory McGinley, Earl of Kinloch, and Zoe Maxwell, which started in book #1. I recommend reading these two books in order for the best experience.
As the story begins, Rory and Zoe are very much together and in love, but secretly, Rory still fears that Zoe will grow tired of the inconveniences of life in the Scottish Highlands and leave him to return to her old life in London. He's been working around the clock to renovate the cabin she inherited from her great-uncle Willie in the hopes that having a comfortable place to live will prevent her from leaving. Unfortunately, that's not the only thing Rory has to worry about; a lawsuit is driving the Kinloch estate ever closer to bankruptcy, a huge New Year's snowstorm causes part of the castle's roof to collapse, and a health scare has Rory's mother Barbara clinging to him like never before. When Hollywood megastar Brad Bauer shows up and announces his plans to make Braveheart 2 on location in Kinloch, it turns out to be exactly the financial windfall Rory needs, but it's also a massive headache that has Rory and Zoe scrambling to deal with the demands of the movie's cast and crew. Will their relationship survive until the final scene is filmed?
I absolutely adored this laugh-out-loud funny, sweet, and steamy story. Zoe and Rory were super cute together, and their chemistry just kept getting better as the story progressed. I loved that their grumpy-sunshine vibes were still so strong even though Rory was completely besotted with Zoe. Their banter along the way was a tremendous amount of fun, as were the book's secondary characters. I especially enjoyed Zoe's "second family," Morag, Fiona, and Jamie. I look forward to seeing more of them in the next two books of the series.
I highly recommend "Hollywood Games" and can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series. It seems there's never a dull moment in Kinloch!
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
A laugh a minute roller coaster steamy ride where Hollywood meets the Highlands and there are more shenanigans than you can poke a stick at - and believe me, there was quite a lot of poking - Evie Alexander's second in The Kinloch series had me rolling around - laughing that is. It's really impossible to pin down Evie's writing; is it romance? is it chic lit? is it satire? all I can say is, I want someone to make this into a movie, now. And oh, Barbara, you have redeemed yourself in my eyes. I am eagerly anticipating the third book in the series. Now I'm off to make spiced short bread!
Oh, how I love Rory. Back to Kinloch for this sequel to Highland Games. It can be read as a standalone but is so much richer and funnier if you meet Zoe and Rory in Highland Games. Hollywood with all of its pomp and circumstance descends on Kinloch Castle with Brad heading up the parade of ego and silliness. This book can make any day brighter and lighter. It's a definite must read and Evie is a one-click author for anyone who likes well-plotted, well-crafted, and hilarious romance books. Yeah for Kinloch~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow. This was such a fun read. I just LOVE Rory and Zoe and it was so much fun to spend more time with them. There is nothing better than a grumpy Thor in a kilt. I can’t wait to read Charlie and Valentina’s story and I NEED a Jamie and Sam book!!
Hollywood Games, a sequel to Highland Games is a whole mood. And let me tell you this there wasn't a dull moment in this book.
In order to save the Kinloch castle, Zoe and Rory open their doors to Hollywood's big-budget film sequel, Braveheart 2. And along with the shoot, comes a whole new level of drama, chaos, madness & hysteria.
Zoe & Rory's relationship has never been any better; full of love, spark & hot as hell chemistry. Ahh but to top it all, the cute & hilarious almost- proposals were my favorite.
I couldn't emphasize enough on the numerous laugh-out-loud scenes in this book. Brad was a tool & let's not get started with Vlad.
This was such a fun, refreshing, entertaining read! With subtle glimpses of the characters from the next book, I'm eagerly waiting for their stories to happen.
Thank you so much for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Troupes- Hollywood Star invades, grumpy/sunshine, hateful mother.
CW- hijinks and a bit of violence
Ok this book is the continuation of “Highland Games” and y’all, it is utter chaos in the best possible way. Before Zoe and Rory can have their HFN they have to save the Kinloch estate, and Zoe has found the perfect opportunity, she just has to keep Rory from killing their ticket to salvation.
Evie’s character are all so much fun even the supporting ones in fact in this one we get to meet a few more that will have there own books! There is so much going on in this book it’s hard to put in down, the pacing moves along at a good clip keeping you guessing and laughing while the events at Kinloch castle get more and more crazy!
Evie once more delivers some hot spicy scenes, there are plenty and they are steamy and funny!
This book was a joy to read light and funny with lots of great set up for the rest of the series!
Thank you Evie Alexander for a ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion!
I like Highland Games. It was sweet and was a nice love story with a few chuckles.
Hollywood Games- Really hit it out of the park. It's still a sweet love story, but this one made me downright laugh out loud. There is no down time in this one except for the sex scenes. Something is always happening to keep the reader's attention, allowing me to finish this in one day.
Rory is certain he’s found the love of his life, but his insecurities still creep in where Zoe is concerned, and he has a hard time feeling secure of her. After all, he has virtually no money, a ton of debt, and his mother actively loathes her. When Hollywood A-lister Brad Bauer shows up out of the blue, determined to film Braveheart 2 at Kinloch, it could be the answer to all their financial woes, but Rory’s not so sure it’s worth it.
Brad was Zoe’s first crush as a teen and with him in Kinloch, convinced she was his soulmate in a previous life, Rory is understandably on edge. With all the personnel involved in the film overrunning Kinloch, everyone in the village is soon feeling the strain. With a self-proclaimed mystical holy man, a diva actress, and an egomaniac superstar overrunning the castle, Rory and Zoe are pushed to their limits and Rory has to keep the end game in mind or risk losing the woman who’s made his life worth living.
First off, I’m still not really a fan of our hero and heroine not getting their [permanent] HEA in a book and having their story carried on, but the first book didn’t end in a cliffhanger, and it definitely did feel like Zoe and Rory had more to say, plus they were both very endearing, so I didn’t really mind them getting a second book. In fact, even having this second book featuring them as hero and heroine, I still am left wanting more Zoe and Rory, partially because I liked both characters so much, but also because I wish they’d had more time together on page in this one. Rory charmed me with his passionate, romantic declarations to Zoe in the first book and with everything else that was going on in their lives without outside forces creeping in, we really didn’t get much of that here. Ditto for their steamy scenes. Though of course there were plenty, some of them felt rushed, or were interrupted and just were not as romantically connected as those of the first book. I see now that that first book spoiled me a bit as far as their relationship was concerned and it was just hard for this continuation to wholly live up. With so many outsiders leeching in and trying to come between Zoe and Rory, she did a lot of managing, both of him and of their situations and I wasn’t the biggest fan of that. Even if she did try to protect him for what she thought was his own good, I was left wanting more of the openness and raw honesty of the first book and it was hard not to keep making that comparison. Sometimes this one leaned a bit too hard into the comedic elements and forgot the romance just a bit. That said, I still enjoyed the story for the most part and I really am intrigued by the side characters that were introduced and hopefully getting their own books, especially Charlie and Jamie. I adore Rory as a hero, I want to spend my Sundays at Morag’s house, and I really did love the fact that through all the annoyance and upheaval they faced in this book, Zoe and Rory stood rock solid by each other. I look forward to stories for those side characters I mentioned and will read more from this author.
A brilliant romantic comedy complete with hilarious chaos and spicy romance
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
Sometimes love comes with a steep price. In Rory's case, that price is his peace of mind and peace and quiet around his castle at Kinloch.
Hollywood Games picks up where Highland Games left off. Rory and Zoe are still trying to figure out how to save the castle, and while Zoe's marketing prowess is starting to show some returns, it is not quick enough to tackle the mounting debt and repairs.
Until Brad Bauer, Hollywood celebrity hunk, came into the picture.
He wants to film Braveheart 2 at Kinloch, and Zoe sees this as a perfect opportunity to help with Rory's goals. When Rory finally agrees to bring Hollywood into town, he also finds out that not only has he opened his doors to complete strangers, but he has invited hilarious chaos into his life as well.
If you are looking for pure romantic comedy, Evie Alexander is an absolute go-to for what you are looking for. This read brings absolute hilarity in the midst of chaos, and I am here for it. The wacky celebrity characters introduced in this book create the perfect satire of Hollywood and definitely keep our two main characters on their toes.
On top of dealing with the new crazies in town, Zoe and Rory still have to come to terms with their relatively new relationship and what it means for their future. Don't worry; they still bring a lot of the spicy as they figure things out.
This second trip to Kinloch did not disappoint. In fact, it has reinvigorated my love for this world and has me counting down to Valentina and Charlie's story in Book Three. This book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Highland Games to better understand the depth of Rory and Zoe's connection.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Evie Alexander for providing an ARC. **
Hollywood Games is book two in the Kinloch series. Highland Games (Book #1) was a favourite read of 2021, where the effervescent and tenacious Zoe falls for the Grumpy God of Kilts, Rory (aka The Earl of Kinloch).
Just in case I haven’t made it clear in my previous review on this series- I’m putting dibs on Rory. The Earl is swoon-worthy book boyfriend material, and yes, I know he’s essentially Zoe’s, but I definitely I can dream 😉.
Kinloch Castle is in disrepair (hello my fantasies about living in a run down Castle), and needs mega bucks to repair it.
Enter Brad Bauer, famous Hollywood actor, director- and Zoe’s teenage crush. He’s looking for a location to film his latest project Braveheart 2. When his spiritual adviser (a creepy Rasputin type character) says he’s been married to Zoe in a past life, he feels all the stars are aligning between Kinloch, the movie, Zoe and himself.
Though there looks to be a solution to the estate money woes, Zoe must navigate this carefully. Can she convince Rory this is a huge opportunity without him going cave-man possessive every time Brad looks at her?
I loved the return to Kinloch and our H/h, with the loveable cast of town characters. One of the support character’s in particular, has a huge character ARC, which I was not expecting.
If you haven’t read Evie Alexander’s Kinloch series yet, I highly recommend you put it on your list.
CW: profanity, smut 🌶🌶🌶, mention of cancer, mention of death of a parent, mention of drugs/addiction, mention of military service injury.
I really enjoyed this continuation of Zoe and Rory's story. This book can be read as a standalone but is so much better if you have read the first book prior to reading this one. Highly recommend!
The story picks up with Zoe returning from visiting her family in England and driving through a blizzard to get home to Scotland and Rory. While she was gone he did a great deal of improvements to her cabin which were a romantic surprise for her. Zoe is finishing up work on the castle web site and social media accounts trying to bring in more tourist revenue to the castle. She gets contacted by Brad Bauer, Hollywood director and actor, to film his Braveheart 2 movie at the castle and her cabin. Brad and his team visit and get the ball rolling for his production. What commences next is a hilarious recounting of the history of the castle and Scotland along with much needed repairs. After the entire movie crew arrive Rory is hard pressed to keep his inner caveman in check when Zoe works as the female lead's stand in with scenes involving Brad. The town is also in a bit of an uproar with Jamie having to write an album's worth of songs inspired by the movie and the local bakery having to begin production of the spicy shortbread. When the movie finally wraps, there are some surprises in store for all the characters.
Where to even begin, I started with Evie Alexander's Highland Games and absolutely fell in love. I immediately began reading Hollywood Games and the adoration continued. I don't say it often, I love the way she writes. She draws you in using humour, bits of narrative and genuine artistry.
There were moments I found myself cackling out loud at the hilarity of the situations, our heroine Zoe finds herself. I cannot get over how likeable a character Zoe is. She is down to earth and anyone can imagine themselves in her shoes. I am not a red head, nor tall but I resonate with Zoe. She's someone who cares about her family but needs to branch out on her own, follow her dreams and do something daring. In this book Zoe wants to help Rory and the castle so much she is willing to take on some awkwardness in order to save his family's history.
Additionally, the way Alexander writes about love just makes you want to fall in love. Additionally, we all want a Rory in our lives and her weaving of the story was brilliant. She instills such emotion and happiness in her work I found myself laughing, crying and being irritated at the same points Zoe was.
There were no uncomfortable & 'cringey' moments, which can often turn my interest in a book sour. Alexander doesn't draw things out, which is what I enjoyed. Its exactly what I needed, a feel good, funny, sweet romantic comedy. I cannot wait to read more from Evie Alexander.
Rory and Zoe’s relationship is put to the test when Hollywood mega stars descend on Kinloch Castle to film a blockbuster movie. And let’s not forget Rory’s mother, who is easily Zoe’s least favorite fan, trying to drive a wedge between the happy couple.
Rory struggled with dealing with his mother, the movie production, Brad and his antics, a hyper-focused movie star claiming she needs his protection, and a sketchy spiritual guide. What doesn’t waver is his love and devotion to Zoe and their undeniable chemistry. Zoe certainly had her hands full this book dealing with so many moving parts with the movie, keeping Rory from unleashing his inner caveman and dealing with his mother’s disapproval of her. Throughout everything, Zoe and Rory’s relationship continued to strengthen and their tenderness was infectious.
The secondary casts of characters continue to be great additions to the story and I’m excited to see some of them getting their own upcoming books!
Thank you @eviealexanderauthor for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
The story Zoe finds Rory has fixed up her hideaway cottage in Scotland, with extra unexpected features! But soon life in Kinloch is turned upside down when the castle becomes the set of a Hollywood movie. There are actors, actresses and gurus taking over but a plus side is that the castle renovations are paid for!
My thoughts There are no dull moments in this fast paced visit back to the castle at Kinloch for book number 2 in this cute series! I loved the antics of the new characters and the fun and games and steaminess emanating from Zoe and Rory. I also just loved how Zoe is infused with entrepreneurial spirit and her go-getter attitude brings new experiments (spicy shortbread!) that benefit the people of Kinloch. I loved reading this easy and entertaining story! Well done Evie Alexander!
I received a review copy for free thanks to the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rory’s found the love of his life but can he be sure Zoe feels the same? What can he offer her when his job’s on the line, and his mother’s out to destroy her? When Hollywood superstar, Brad Bauer, shows up wanting to film Braveheart 2 at Kinloch castle, it seems like the answer to all his prayers. However, there’s a catch.
Zoe’s had a crush on Brad since she was a teen. Now he’s here, hotter than ever, and convinced he was married to her in a past life. As Hollywood descends on the tiny village of Kinloch, it’s not just the castle that’s under siege.
This could be read as a standalone but will be far more enjoyable if read after Highland Games. There isn't a dull moment in the book - it can easily make a dull day much brighter. Such an entertaining read that I loved reading.
Welcome to your next book hangover! Hollywood Games is the 2nd book featuring Zoe and Rory and it did not disappoint! In fact it solidified the love I have for their relationship! These characters suck you right into their lives. The steam level in Hollywood Games is 🔥🔥🔥🔥as you see their relationship get stronger than it was in Highland Games. The secondary characters add so much depth to this story. As you are reading you are rooting and anxiously waiting for these characters to get their own stories! If you are looking for an alpha male and fiery female, off the charts steam, hysterical banter and supporting characters who steal some scenes, this book will check all of your boxes. Hollywood Games is best enjoyed after reading Highland Games. I was provided an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I Iove these story. I couldn't put the book down. Great characters that will pull you into their story. Rory and Zoe have great chemistry, panty melting heat. This story has drama, heart, love, hope, passion, family, forgiveness and laugh out loud moments. The story flowed effortlessly with a few twists and turns that will keep you glued from start to finish.
Fun, steamy and hilarious, this sequel sees Rory and Zoe hosting a film crew at Kinloch castle that results in jealousy, hurt feelings, affairs and scandals. This was such an entertaining listen and a great sequel that has Rory and Zoe returning to develop their relationship even more and try to save Rory's beloved family estate/castle. Excellent on audio read by the author and recommended for fans of authors like Samantha Young or Alexandra Kiley.
Evie you are literally a ROM COM goddess. You literally have made me addicted to your books. I had already fallen in love with the two main characters, Zoe and Rory in the first book in the series, Highland Games and I’ve really enjoyed getting to revisiting them both in this book too. I loved watching there relationship blossom and chemistry become very steamy, very spicy 🥵 🔥🌶 This book was full of humour, joyful, full of hornyness !! It is true, opposites really do attract !.
O have to say… I loved this even better than the previous book (The Highland games)
I think Evie Alexander’s writing keeps getting better and better
What a journey this was for Rory and Zoe … imagine finally meeting the love of your live and then a Hollywood mega stars comes and makes your world upside down… well that’s pretty much what happens with these two
Can they overcome all the challenges? I won’t give you any spoilers cause you need to read this book
Spicy, sweet and funny as hell The Highlands are proven to be an amazing place to find love in the words of Evie Alexander
I received an e-arc for this book. I loved this Scottish rom com 🥰 seriously these are so underrated! Such a cute romance ! Loved it and recommend it !
This book has it all: sexy scenes, swoony romance, and humor.
It was thoroughly enjoyable to return to Kinloch in this second book of the series. The characters are even better developed than in the first book, and there were laugh out loud moments. I love how Evie hits all the rom-com notes — with not only hilarity and hot sex scenes, but most importantly, lovely romance and a happily ever after.
Adorable follow up to the smash hit Highland Games. More camp, (lots) more sexy times, and a cute set up for a secondary character's potential romance.