Trent Forde, Hollywood’s king of special effects, abrasive, difficult… and my boss.
Working on the set of hit TV show, Steel Force as a make-up artist means I endure his bristly nature daily. The crew call him ‘Sparky’ behind his back. Because when Trent isn’t happy, fireworks fly. One evening locked in a props room together shines a light on both of our jagged edges. And I’m shown beneath the gruff exterior, to the real special effect that is Trent Forde. But despite him being Hollywood royalty, everyone has a past that’s shaped them. You can try to move on, but it never forgets you. And when your boss decides he wants you to be his, period, that past means the first take is rarely perfect. Just like the brightest fireworks, sometimes beautiful things explode first.
Forget-me-nots and Fireworks is a spicy, novella length romance (33,000 words) featuring a grumpy boss and a strong female lead, and the special effect they have on each other. What to expect – Lights, cameras, spicy action, drama, angst, family values, past trauma, flowers, stars, fireworks, zero-gravity, and of course, a happily ever after, because love always wins.
Another fantastic book from Elle, proving she can do just about anything!
Trent and Shona's story was short and to the point. We still had the angst that comes with any book by Elle, and of course the romance. A perfect novella to tide you over until the next book in The Men series.
My only issue was that I wished we had more! But saying that, this novella was perfect. I didn't feel that everything happened too quickly or to slowly, I felt there was the right amount of tension and everything was wrapped up perfectly.
4.5⭐️ Great novella! Trent is a Director and special effects expert who meets make up artist Shona on set. He’s been burnt by his previous relationship and is grumpy and demanding. Shona gives as good as she gets and sparks fly between them! The chemistry was great and story flowed really well- I didn’t feel like anything was missing despite it being a novella.
Thank you Elle for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
What a book,a short fabulous read with Trent the hot special effect guy who is abrasive but is hiding his true self and the sassy Shona. These two have a few run in and the sparks fly. not spoiling this for you you have to give it a read.
I really enjoyed the insight into the crew of Steel Force and they are fantastic! They’re not subtle efforts to push Shona into seducing Trent into a happy mood…! I loved it. While the make-up artists fawn over Jay, it was so comedic and down right hilarious, especially now knowing what happens in his story. I will say this again, but Holly is (or will be) so lucky!
But so is Shona…
Trent’s dry humour was absolutely perfect window to his inner-gooey centre.
The forced proximity was a great jump start into helping them to connect and it was lovely to witness Shona looking at Trent in a new light. And from the proximity, his little gestures were so swoony, even if they could be seen as him getting his job done more effectively.
Shona may have initiated their first kiss, but my gawd!! It was heart-burning hot, even if she initiated it as a “fxck it” moment.
You would have expected Trent to not have a romantic side, but their first date… wow! He is a total romantic, what a perfect book boyfriend under all that grumpiness!
Trent always needed someone to handle his personality and he certainly found her. My god, Shona definitely can handle his grouchiness! She’s so fiery and can hold her own!
The third act drama… wow! You can’t deny that Trent definitely knows how to fight for Shona and their relationship!
This may have been a short novella, but their story was breathtakingly perfect. I couldn’t stop reading!!
I now can’t decide who is better; Jay Anderson or Trent Forde?!
Trent and Shona are explosive in more ways than one! Trent being a grumpy, rude and demanding film director and Shona, a makeup artist, not afraid to call him out on his bad manners and attitude. Then there’s their attraction to one another! They are great characters and I really enjoyed, even though this was a novella, that you learnt learnt a lot about them and could connect with them. Trent discovering things about Shona’s past makes him admire her more and Shona unveiling truths and facts about Trent shows he’s not at all how he’s perceived but he’s kind, caring and romantic. They make the best couple.
As this is a prequel to Elle’s The Men series you get the added bonus of moments with Jay Anderson from book 1. There’s humour, heart and spice, I found this totally enjoyable and a perfect novella.
Another amazing book by Elle Nicoll. This novella was just too sweet and definitely spicy! This is a prequel novella with major grumpy/sunshine vibes. I feel in love with Trent and Shona in this story ❤️
workplace romance. he is a director. she is a makeup artist. stuck together in the props room. steamy.
Such a cute and spicy novella! Loved the glimpses pf Shona and Trent in Meeting Mr. Anderson so I was excited when I heard they got their own book! There was a really good balance between love, spice and serious topics like past abuse and betrayal.
*I was kindly given an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
This grumpy-sunshine novella features Shona, a make-up artist with an abusive past and Trent, a cranky, world renowned special effects artist and director. When they clash on the set, sparks fly.
The story is a quick and fun romp with the requisite angst and explosive chemistry you might expect from Elle Nicoll. Even though it’s shorter than her usual books, the heart and soul of Ms Nicoll’s storytelling is still there which makes this a delightful evening snack!
Forget-Me-Nots & Fireworks is a standalone prequel to The Men Series and part of the Wild Blooms multi-author series with a HEA.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this novella from Elle - now one of my top authors - and my goodness, it was GOOD! This novella is a prequel to The Men series, and it was fun meeting Jay Anderson pre Holly! Trent and Shona were literal fireworks. Their chemistry was sizzling, and the spice🔥 I just love me a grumpy sunshine! The birthday party though 🥹 The only one thing I would say is, I wish it was a full length novel, cause my god it was amazing! Elle, as always, thank you!!
🎆 “Without you, my life feels flat. There’s no spark.”
*There is talks of past abuse
Trent is special effects guy but also a director on movie sets. He got the nickname “Sparky” from his colleges due to his bad attitude & quick to anger personality. Most of it stems from his fiancée leaving him for his best friend & while he mourned her he mourned his friend more. Everything is now a work first mind set as he navigates his feelings & just trying to be the best her can be for movies.
Shona is a makeup artist on movie sets. Which is wild because that was a dream of mine once upon a time. Growing up she had an abusive step father who is the reason she does makeup. She helped her mom cover the bruises she got from him until her brother was finally big enough to put an end to the abuse & the guy finally left.
Shona & Trent end up locked in the prop room because Shona accidentally shut the door behind her. She of course didn’t read the memo about how the door needs to be propped open or you’ll be locked in. They had no clue how long they’d be stuck but luckily it wasn’t long at all. Tension runs high between the two of them.
We of course have to have the slight miscommunication that all romcom esq books have. This is a situation that Trent completely misreads & ends up punching her brother because he thought someone was trying to hurt Shona. She had previously mentioned to him about her step father & he thought to protect her on that moment.
I don’t want to mention too much more as it is a short book but I loved how quick it was to read and how easy it was to enjoy the characters.
The only bummer of this being a novella and not a full length book is we are missing some information in between chapters. It skips forward more than I’d like. But it’s a novella so it happens. 4.5/5
Thank you to Elle for letting me read this early! 😍
Trent and Shona shine and their chemistry and connection comes through each page.
Trent is the most sought after special effects director in the world who is guest directing a season of an FBI series. After being betrayed by his best friend and fiancé, he doesn’t trust easily and stays guarded. His hard demeanor and strict work environment has him pegged by most to keep your head down and stay out of his way. Most, except for one make up stylist who, after surviving watching her mom survive after being physically abused isn’t afraid to speak her mind and stand up to anyone, including Sparky the tyrant director who has more underneath that hard exterior that she wants to explore.
No one has ever stood up to him, but there is something about her and her copper ringed eyes that draws him to her like a moth to a flame. An end of season party at his house leads to a soul searing kiss, he asks her to dinner.
A night of passion is followed by confusion and misunderstandings. But when she tries to brush it off he’s not letting her go that easy, fighting for all of her.
Trent and Shona’s story is packed with love, growing together and plenty of spice. Elle draws you in from the first page and always leaves you craving more of her characters.
♥️♥️ This is the 17th book in the Wild Blooms series♥️♥️
Shona works as make-up artist in the movie industry in Hollywood, she has a very painfull past and thinks twice before dating a guy.
Trent learned what it feels like to be betrayed by best friend and fiance. And it hurts like b..ch, so he concentrate only on his carrier and he is known as a bossy director on the movie set. Until one day he talks with one of the crew member-Shona.
Shona makes Trent feel again and the chemistry is so hot, sparkles fly everywhere. She is the one, who was able to bring the old one Trent back to life.
Elle did a gret job with this book, she created on 90 pages a great story, it had everything, loveble main and second-side characters ( you can meet Jay from Mr. Anderson) , some misunderstandings that made the right tension, doubts about ourselfs and mainly forgivness and finding HEA. ( ooh and the bed scenes 🥵🥵🌶️🌶️🌶️).
Mr. Trent Forde is a great member of Elle's Mr. group and this was a perfect prequel to this series!
I recieved this copy in exchange for my honest review, thank you Elle for the chance ♥️📖♥️.
I do love Elle Nicoll, she writes some of the best male characters I have ever read.
Let’s start with thanking Elle for sending me an eArc of the book to read and review. All thoughts and opinions on this review are my own.
This is a short novella before the whole Men Series so you won’t be spoilt if you read this before or after. The book is about Trent “Sparky” Forde and Shona. Trent is a big director who has previously had his heart broken not only by his ex-fiancé but his best friend too. He is focused and trying to build his business back up. He is however determined in all areas and he can come across as strict and no fun.
Shona works as a make up artist as part of the crew working with Trent. She takes no prisoners and has stood up to him and that catches his eye. There is a chance encounter between the two and sparks fly!
I really enjoyed this book it was short but on point. The steam in the book was also just HOT. It was nice to see that Shona told Trent what she wanted and wasn’t scared to give out orders.
Overall a really enjoyable novella, but I am bias as have loved every book by this author!
5 ✨ (ARC reviewer) This novella oml🫶🏻🤭 this book is for everyone whether u want a quick read to get out of a slump or a quick and easy read. Trent my grumpy softy millionaire🥺 within very little pages he took my heart away. I love how his job is so unique and how attentive he is to Shona. And his dirty talk💋🌶️🥵my oh my I scream without the S while readingggg. And now for our feisty girl, Shona is strong and she is very feisty I love fmc like that. I wish it could go into more detail on her stars interest but it’s a novella. I love how she didn’t let the cheating ex words get into her head ( but it’s also bcuz Trent prove it wrong so many times). The story plot itself is quick but amazing. The writing as usual is easy to read but some part are a lil cringy but I think it describe the characters personality well but overall I love it so much🫶🏻 Elle even made me fall in love with the side characters in a short amount of times. Everyone I repeat everyone need this book.
Tropes: insta love, millionaires, grumpysunshine, bossXemployer, traumatic past, he fall first and harder
What an amazing novella by the talented Ms. Nicoll. Forget-Me-Nots and Fireworks is a sweet and steamy romance that sees Trent, an arrogant movie director, and Shona, a make-up artist, who happens to be working on the same movie set. He is known to be a bit of a jerk, not very nice but very talented at what he does. Being locked in a closet, sharing one kiss and one-night had Shona changing her view of the real Trent. Pasts were shared and as a result, the two of them become closer. They both set the pages on fire with the sharing of control and wants. Watching Trent turn into the cold person people thought he was into this sweet, caring, cinnamon roll man who also has a bit of a dirty mouth was terrific. Shona, having to grow up the way she did, is a strong and knows what she wants woman, that nobody would ever think of pushing around. The only thing I wished for is that it was longer as I need more of the two of them. It was not a rushed story but one that was thoroughly enjoyed. Grab this one and enjoy Trent and Shona's story.
This captivating novella tells the story of Trent, a director known for his grumpiness, and Shona, a spirited makeup artist. Their encounter on set ignites a powerful chemistry between them. Despite its length, the novella flawlessly unfolds, providing intriguing glimpses into the Steel Force crew. The comedic scenes featuring the infatuated makeup artists and the enigmatic Jay are downright hilarious. Trent's dry wit conceals his deeply romantic nature, making him an unexpected yet perfect match for Shona. She fearlessly navigates his prickly demeanor, proving her strength. Their first kiss, initiated by Shona, sizzles with passion. Trent's surprising romantic side shines through on their unforgettable first date. The dramatic third act showcases Trent's unwavering commitment to fighting for their love. This breathtaking novella delicately balances love, sensuality, and thought-provoking themes such as past trauma and betrayal. I usually find Elle Nicoll's books way too long and this story was perfect in size.
I’m a huge fan of all Elle’s books and I was eagerly awaiting this story. She writes with such heart and emotion and every one of her characters hits you right in the feels. You can truly identify with them all and you end up loving their lives along with them.
This story definitely didn’t disappoint. My only criticism is that it’s too short. I love these two characters and selfishly wanted more… but I’m still satisfied because as short as it is, it’s still fulfilling and heartwarming.
Trent and Shona are so hot and sexy together right from the start. They are obviously meant to be, but as we got to know Trent’s softer, less sparky side I just hoped he’d continue to let his heart open up to the possibility of loving someone again.
So if you haven’t already read any other of Elle’s books, I strongly recommend you start at the beginning and discover how Jay Anderson manages to find the love of his life where he least expects it.
Take one grumpy director, add a make-up artist who is not afraid to speak her mind, and you have the perfect mix to create sparks flying on the set of Steel Force. This novella has it all. Sassy-speaking Shona, dirty-talking Trent, doubtful thoughts between them, heaps of attraction, and dreams that reach as high as the constellations. Both are mistrustful due to their pasts but willing to put it behind them and take a ride on a shooting star to see if they can make it. It's not going to be smooth sailing with two strong personalities clashing. Expect bumps and bruises of the make-up variety as well as physical. In the long run, all that matters is whether or not happy ever after is waiting at the end of the ride.
What a heart-warming way to pass my time. Reading all about Trent and Shona hit me with the warm and fuzzies. I love Ms. Nicoll's books and refuse to miss anything she writes.
Trent, or “Sparky” as he is called on set of Steel Force, is a bossy grumpy director who doesn’t trust anyone but himself after experiencing the worst betrayal. While on set, everyone knows not to mess with him and to make sure everything is perfect or he’ll be “sparky” until Shona, a makeup artist on set, sets him straight while on set one day. After that, Trent was smitten. He just need someone who’s a firework like Shona to spark his attention and my god do Sparks fly..
let’s just say Trent lives up to his nickname in a different way *wink wink*
Though their story is short, it’s still a beautiful love story. I love Trent and Shona. They way they trust each other. Their little “Period.”, saying they have. Watch me swoon at their cuteness. Especially Trent’s!
I also loved seeing Jay again!
Thank you Elle for an early copy!! I really enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait to own for real soon!!
This is a novella prequel to The Men series, as part of the Wild Bloom collection in which each book has a special link to the same floristry business. Forget-me-nots and Fireworks is a grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity story about the big shot Hollywood director Trent and talented makeup artist Shona.
The highly sought-after special effects genius Trent was directing this season of the most popular show. Despite his skills and talent, he had a reputation of being rude on set and difficult to work with. His patience was wearing thin having filmed the same scene for hours. When Jay’s makeup artist Shona showed up, Trent was immediately taken by her beauty.
Shona accidentally locked herself in a trailer with Trent. They could either wait in silence or try to make conversation. She called him out on his bosshole behaviour. Trent recognised it and as much as he did not care what others think, he apologised. No one dared talk back to him and Shona’s say-it-like-it-is attitude really turned him on. She went on to share her love for space and makeup while he spoke about his fiancée’s affair with his best friend. Small talks turned into so much more. Their attraction towards each other did not go unnoticed.
At the wrap-up party, Shona made the first move to kiss Trent. They were all over each other and in typical Elle fashion, the smut was top tier. Trent was both filthy and sweet. As they connect more deeply, she realised he was not the abrasive workaholic she thought him to be. He’s a man with a giant heart who had his trust abused. They had misunderstandings at times, but their issues were quickly resolved with open and honest conversations.
I absolutely loved Trent and Shona! While both had their insecurities, they went after what they wanted. They had no problem expressing their feelings. This novella has all the steam and swoon, highly recommended!
I must admit that I have read the men series out of order so this prequel novella was an awesome insight into the Jay/Holly story in book 1. Time to run and add Meeting Mr. Anderson to my TBR!
This was a sweet and spicy novella where we find Trent aka Sparky as the grumpy bosshole workaholic special effects director on the set of a Hollywood TV Series. The FMC is Shona; a makeup artist on the same set who seems to be the only person who can tame Trent's miserable ways. Shona gives it back to him as good as he dishes out and a beautiful love story of flowers and fireworks unfolds.
I was impressed with this being a short novella at how much background insight we got into each of the characters pasts and current lives. As always, Elle delivered not only a seriously amazing storyline but also a plot packed with sinful sexy and smutty scenes.
When one of your fave authors is releasing a prequel novella to an amazing series, you just want to read it! And so I did...
Loved this book about Trent and Shona. They were just made for each other (like Gloria mentioned... hehe). We get to see some glimpses of Jay Anderson, the star of the book Meeting Mr Anderson as this book is situated in Hollywood/LA and Shona is a make up artist and Trent is a director who loves special effect. He needs a stand in for a scene and Shona is the one. And from that moment, specially the first date where they confess some things, sparks fly and the scene where Trent is going to see Shona and meets this guy.... OMG!!! You have to read this!! Loved how Elle wrote this!
If you loved Elle's novels, this one is not to miss!
Trent has been hurt before leading to his hard grumpy exterior. It’s great to see his softer, passionate side coming out…
Shona had a difficult past and is a sassy sexy woman who gives as good as she gets.
In this faced paced, forced proximity romance it all comes together in the best possible way. Nothing is ever easy and we still get a few twists to keep us on our toes.
It was great to see Jay before we meet him fully in Meeting Mr Anderson.
You’ve done it again - just when I thought I was in a slump - Elle came along again delivered with this feel good summer read.
Thank you as always for letting me ARC read for you .
I love Elle's books. Her characters never cease to leap off the page and Trent and Shona are no different. A prequel to The Men series, this takes place chronologically before Meeting Mr Anderson. We saw Shona and Trent in that one (Jay's story, who appears here too) and it was a lovely surprise that Elle decided to tell us their story now. As always with Elle, there is a lot of steam but also a lot of love, not just between the two of them but with their families and friends as well Although it was much shorter than Elle's other books, it didn't feel rushed at all. I felt their strong connection from the very beginning so I believed in how fast they fell. I didn't need this to be any longer though I wouldn't have complained if it was!
This is Shona and Trent's story in Book 17 of the Wild Blooms Series, where each book has a different author and a happily ever after! This is the second book of the series that I've gotten to read after discovering this cute contemporary romance series only a couple of weeks ago. But, I plan to read them all!
I love that these a little quick reads that I am able to squeeze into my other family, friends, and community activities. The characters in this book were so fun to read! Shona is a fun but serious minded make-up artist for a movie set. She says what she means and doesn't take a lot of crap from the people around her. Trent is the special effects director on the set. He is grumpy, exacting, demanding, and so bossy! Their chemistry is fireworks! Loved it!
Grumpy/sunshine romance set on a film set. I really enjoyed this romance between happy-go-lucky make-up artist, Shona & demanding director/special effects king, Trent. I loved the way Shona calls Trent out on his attitude and manners – especially when they are trapped, locked in the props store together. What also appealed about the novella is the setting on the set of a successful TV show, with the actors and crew forming a back-drop to the developing relationship between the two main characters, which explodes into a steamy make-out session at the ‘wrap’ party! An entertaining read with likeable characters and a satisfying HEA.
ARC Review⏏⏏⏏ Forget-me-nots and fireworks - Elle Nicoll
Trent, the abrasive, grump of a director And Shona, the firecracker who loves to challenge him When the two meet a spark is created, you feel the eletric current thick with sexual tension fill the air between these two And oh the spicy scenes This is a novella where you will see some characters from previous men series and well we all love the idea of that Shona and trents story hits like a firework but is quickly dimmed out but they come back with a bang What a beautiful novella Elle, you outdone yourself as usual now im ready for your next book of the Men series
Elle is a beautiful storyteller and this novella is a perfect example of how much goodness she can fit into her stories.. Her characters are rich and realistic and her locations are too. It was easy for me to find myself on location and enjoy the sparks flying. Trent was cruelly betrayed by his ex and his best friend. Trust is very important to Mr. Grumpy. He is a magnificent special effect wizard but not so well liked. Shona is a make-up artist who stands up for herself. No one is going to hurt her again. But the run-in with Trent leaves her wondering what he's really like and she wants to find out. A great addition to the Wild Blooms series.
Elle Nicoll did it again 😍 Such a great story I just loved the chemistry between Trent and Shona and how their relationship developed through the book… Trent was so grumpy and sparky to everyone but started to change through the book because of her.. I just love how this two helped each other to trust again. All in all a great short novella I couldn’t put down. AND we got to read about Jay again 😍😍😍 As we know from Elle the spicy is really 🔥🔥🔥 I wish we could have more of this two because I couldn’t get enough
Shona and Trent had an instant connection that reeled you right into their story. These two saw a void that could be filled by the other, seeing that there’s more underneath their strong willed exterior. Shona brought out Trent’s happiness again and Trent let Shona know she was safe and protected. They def had sparks flying with the spice and bossiness 🤭 I loved that their conflict was “easily” solved, they held blame towards themselves and not each other.
I also loved getting to see Jay again!! I’ve missed him 🥰