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Lights, Camera, Christmas
A Man of the Month Club Novella
He’s a hometown classic. She’s a Hollywood has-been. Can he convince her that holiday magic still exists?
My agent tells me this is my last chance. I need to sparkle in this cheesy made-for-TV holiday movie or my career is over.
P.S. I HATE the holidays.
So spending half the summer sweltering in kitschy Candy Cane Key, Florida, filming faux Christmas cheer in the wake of my messy divorce sounds like pure agony.
Turns out, I’m one-hundred percent right about this job—everything that can go wrong does. From missing costumes to wildlife disasters (hello—gator on the set!), it looks like this movie might never make it into the can.
And the plot twist: one devastatingly handsome fishing charter captain, Maddox Banks. He’s the polar opposite of my ex—kind, gorgeous, and so full of Christmas cheer the man practically jingles every time he moves.
Will one night with him have me rethinking my grinchy ways? Because everyone knows Happily Ever Afters only happen in the movies.
He’s a hometown classic. She’s a Hollywood has-been. Can he convince her that holiday magic still exists?
My agent tells me this is my last chance. I need to sparkle in this cheesy made-for-TV holiday movie or my career is over.
P.S. I HATE the holidays.
So spending half the summer sweltering in kitschy Candy Cane Key, Florida, filming faux Christmas cheer in the wake of my messy divorce sounds like pure agony.
Turns out, I’m one-hundred percent right about this job—everything that can go wrong does. From missing costumes to wildlife disasters (hello—gator on the set!), it looks like this movie might never make it into the can.
And the plot twist: one devastatingly handsome fishing charter captain, Maddox Banks. He’s the polar opposite of my ex—kind, gorgeous, and so full of Christmas cheer the man practically jingles every time he moves.
Will one night with him have me rethinking my grinchy ways? Because everyone knows Happily Ever Afters only happen in the movies.
84 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 6, 2023
101 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
December 27, 2024
Festive & feel-good.
Seasonal short fiction with compelling characters. Sweet romance that grows fiery and ends with a happily ever after. Recommended holiday reading.
Seasonal short fiction with compelling characters. Sweet romance that grows fiery and ends with a happily ever after. Recommended holiday reading.
December 29, 2024
This books was a very quick read. According to my Kindle app it was less than 100 pages. I personally struggle as a reader to get into short books. I don’t fall in love with the characters and because the books is so short the author I felt had to quickly ramp up the relationship. I didn’t even highlight anything in this book nothing stand out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2025
This was such a fun, cute, quick Christmas read. Although it doesn't really take place at Christmas it is in a town that celebrates Christmas all year round. Loved the story and the characters. Hopefully they will appear in future books and we will get more of their story.
February 10, 2024
OMG!!! WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.
Maddox and Ivy met when she comes to Candy Cane Keys to film a Christmas movie, she the lead actress. Maddox and his brother Levi Reeling Him In own a bait shop and have several boat they can charter people around in. This is Ivy's last chance not to mess up her career, she is going through a bad divorce. Her now ex-husband was caught cheating on her but only married Ivy to become famous. Maddox helps around the set along with taking the cast and crew around to different spots they're needed at. After Ivy gets some takeout she heads back to the Sugar Plum Inn she runs right into Levi and finds out he's a twin. The next day the director calls for a meeting with all cast and crew, they run through the schedule, and plan out the days ahead. Maddox is helping his brother Levi at their shop when he needs to leave to head to the beach, they are starting filming and he needs to help out. When Maddox arrive he finds out that Ivy needs to get into the boat but there's no dock he can pull up to, so he suggest she wade out to him. Ivy has to hick up her dress to wade out to Maddox who then helps her into his boat. When they are done shooting the scene, Maddox suggest he take Ivy back to the Inn so that she can change her clothes then he'll bring her back to the set. Maddox asks Ivy if she has plans for tonight, he asks her if she wants to grab drinks and some dinner, she agrees to go with him. Ivy mets Maddox in the lobby of her Inn, they head to a little Italian restaurant. After they order they talk about their past, and get to know one another. They leave the restaurant and Maddox takes Ivy and shows her around town, but soon they hear thunder and he tells her they need to get going. Maddox grabs Ivy's hand and they run back to the Inn, he starts to kiss her. Then Ivy asks him to come upstairs with her. As soon as they get inside her door they are stripping each others clothes off. Then Maddox pleasures Ivy and they make love. Three weeks later almost four, Maddox and Ivy spend every second they can together. Maddox knows he's falling hard for Ivy. Maddox's brother Levi asks him how they are going to work she lives in LA and he lives here in Candy Cane Keys. Maddox gets a message they need him on set, they had some schedule changes. When he arrives on set he spots an alligator, he tells everyone to move back. Some of the crew listen but others want to get pictures. Maddox picks up several of the cast and crew and takes them to safety. Then he heads back and picks up the rest of them. When Ivy calls her agent she finds out that her ex-husband eloped. After she gets over her sadness she realizes she is finally done with her ex-husband. Ivy gets a message from Maddox to met him downstairs, he tells her he wants to take her someplace special. Maddox takes Ivy to his families boathouse where he has several boats he's working on fixing up. Maddox pleasure Ivy then they make love on one of the boats. Maddox tells Ivy he loves her but Ivy can't say it back, she does love with but just can't say it. The last day of filming Maddox is called to come to pick up the lead actors. Maddox is told to take them out in the boat and wait for them to finish filming. Maddox notices the lead actor opposite Ivy getting a little green he asks him if he's alright. He tells Maddox he's getting sea sick and wants to be taken back. Maddox tells him he can't leave yet, but the guy demand it. Maddox heads back to shore and drops off the guy. Maddox and Ivy stay in the boat, she tells him she loves him too. Maddox asks her if she's heading back to LA she tells him that's where she lives. Maddox tells her not to go stay with him, when she gets another role she can leave but he wants her to come back to him. Maddox tells Ivy he wants her, she tells him she's not sure she's been hurt before. Maddox tells her he loves her and he'll wait for her. Ivy tells him she loves him and she'll stay. They are interrupted by someone yelling cut, they lookup and find several cameras pointed at them. Maddox questions that he's not the lead man, but they tell him its fine. The entire town of Candy Cane Keys is invited to watch a private screening of Hooked for the Holidays, the film Ivy stared in. After the movie ends everyone whoops and cheers, Ivy stands and takes a bow, then she pulls Maddox to do the same. Then Maddox leans over and kisses Ivy. The director comes up to Ivy and Maddox to tell them they have an offer, the Christmas Network wants to do a spinoff about them, a reality show. Documenting life on Candy Cane Keys, everyone loved the love story between Maddox and Ivy. Maddox and Ivy agree, it will keep her in Candy Cane Keys while they film. One year later, Maddox heads down Main street with Ivy she asks him where they're going. Maddox tells her she'll see, Ivy doesn't mess Hollywood one bit, this is her life now. They arrive at the boathouse and he pulls her inside with him. It's all decorated with fairytale lights, and a Christmas tree in the center. Maddox tells Ivy he loves her and she's the best thing that's ever happened to him, she tells him she feels the same way. Maddox goes down on one knee, he hands her a square gift wrapped box. When she opens it she finds a diamond ring, he asks her if she likes it, she tells him she loves it. Maddox asks her if she'll do the honor of becoming his wife, she tells him yes. Maddox tells her he loves her as he slips the ring on her finger, Ivy tells him she loves him. Ivy hears someone say that's a wrap and she looks and finds a cameraman in the corner. The cameraman congratulates them and leaves. Ivy asks him if he knew about this, he tells her he set it all up. Maddox asks her if she's okay with the engagement being filmed, Ivy tells him she is. Ivy suggest they elope but Maddox tells her a wedding will give them another season of filming. Maddox wants to have the wedding at the boathouse but Ivy tells him the whole town will turn out. Then he suggest they have the wedding at the amphitheater, with plenty of seating. Ivy tells him that sound good she just has one request, that they make their grand exit on a boat. Maddox tells her that sounds perfect. When Maddox wraps his arms around Ivy she knows she's found her real-life Happy Ever After.
Maddox and Ivy met when she comes to Candy Cane Keys to film a Christmas movie, she the lead actress. Maddox and his brother Levi Reeling Him In own a bait shop and have several boat they can charter people around in. This is Ivy's last chance not to mess up her career, she is going through a bad divorce. Her now ex-husband was caught cheating on her but only married Ivy to become famous. Maddox helps around the set along with taking the cast and crew around to different spots they're needed at. After Ivy gets some takeout she heads back to the Sugar Plum Inn she runs right into Levi and finds out he's a twin. The next day the director calls for a meeting with all cast and crew, they run through the schedule, and plan out the days ahead. Maddox is helping his brother Levi at their shop when he needs to leave to head to the beach, they are starting filming and he needs to help out. When Maddox arrive he finds out that Ivy needs to get into the boat but there's no dock he can pull up to, so he suggest she wade out to him. Ivy has to hick up her dress to wade out to Maddox who then helps her into his boat. When they are done shooting the scene, Maddox suggest he take Ivy back to the Inn so that she can change her clothes then he'll bring her back to the set. Maddox asks Ivy if she has plans for tonight, he asks her if she wants to grab drinks and some dinner, she agrees to go with him. Ivy mets Maddox in the lobby of her Inn, they head to a little Italian restaurant. After they order they talk about their past, and get to know one another. They leave the restaurant and Maddox takes Ivy and shows her around town, but soon they hear thunder and he tells her they need to get going. Maddox grabs Ivy's hand and they run back to the Inn, he starts to kiss her. Then Ivy asks him to come upstairs with her. As soon as they get inside her door they are stripping each others clothes off. Then Maddox pleasures Ivy and they make love. Three weeks later almost four, Maddox and Ivy spend every second they can together. Maddox knows he's falling hard for Ivy. Maddox's brother Levi asks him how they are going to work she lives in LA and he lives here in Candy Cane Keys. Maddox gets a message they need him on set, they had some schedule changes. When he arrives on set he spots an alligator, he tells everyone to move back. Some of the crew listen but others want to get pictures. Maddox picks up several of the cast and crew and takes them to safety. Then he heads back and picks up the rest of them. When Ivy calls her agent she finds out that her ex-husband eloped. After she gets over her sadness she realizes she is finally done with her ex-husband. Ivy gets a message from Maddox to met him downstairs, he tells her he wants to take her someplace special. Maddox takes Ivy to his families boathouse where he has several boats he's working on fixing up. Maddox pleasure Ivy then they make love on one of the boats. Maddox tells Ivy he loves her but Ivy can't say it back, she does love with but just can't say it. The last day of filming Maddox is called to come to pick up the lead actors. Maddox is told to take them out in the boat and wait for them to finish filming. Maddox notices the lead actor opposite Ivy getting a little green he asks him if he's alright. He tells Maddox he's getting sea sick and wants to be taken back. Maddox tells him he can't leave yet, but the guy demand it. Maddox heads back to shore and drops off the guy. Maddox and Ivy stay in the boat, she tells him she loves him too. Maddox asks her if she's heading back to LA she tells him that's where she lives. Maddox tells her not to go stay with him, when she gets another role she can leave but he wants her to come back to him. Maddox tells Ivy he wants her, she tells him she's not sure she's been hurt before. Maddox tells her he loves her and he'll wait for her. Ivy tells him she loves him and she'll stay. They are interrupted by someone yelling cut, they lookup and find several cameras pointed at them. Maddox questions that he's not the lead man, but they tell him its fine. The entire town of Candy Cane Keys is invited to watch a private screening of Hooked for the Holidays, the film Ivy stared in. After the movie ends everyone whoops and cheers, Ivy stands and takes a bow, then she pulls Maddox to do the same. Then Maddox leans over and kisses Ivy. The director comes up to Ivy and Maddox to tell them they have an offer, the Christmas Network wants to do a spinoff about them, a reality show. Documenting life on Candy Cane Keys, everyone loved the love story between Maddox and Ivy. Maddox and Ivy agree, it will keep her in Candy Cane Keys while they film. One year later, Maddox heads down Main street with Ivy she asks him where they're going. Maddox tells her she'll see, Ivy doesn't mess Hollywood one bit, this is her life now. They arrive at the boathouse and he pulls her inside with him. It's all decorated with fairytale lights, and a Christmas tree in the center. Maddox tells Ivy he loves her and she's the best thing that's ever happened to him, she tells him she feels the same way. Maddox goes down on one knee, he hands her a square gift wrapped box. When she opens it she finds a diamond ring, he asks her if she likes it, she tells him she loves it. Maddox asks her if she'll do the honor of becoming his wife, she tells him yes. Maddox tells her he loves her as he slips the ring on her finger, Ivy tells him she loves him. Ivy hears someone say that's a wrap and she looks and finds a cameraman in the corner. The cameraman congratulates them and leaves. Ivy asks him if he knew about this, he tells her he set it all up. Maddox asks her if she's okay with the engagement being filmed, Ivy tells him she is. Ivy suggest they elope but Maddox tells her a wedding will give them another season of filming. Maddox wants to have the wedding at the boathouse but Ivy tells him the whole town will turn out. Then he suggest they have the wedding at the amphitheater, with plenty of seating. Ivy tells him that sound good she just has one request, that they make their grand exit on a boat. Maddox tells her that sounds perfect. When Maddox wraps his arms around Ivy she knows she's found her real-life Happy Ever After.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2023
Amazon Universal
Ivy hates Christmas, so why's she here in this small Florida town that is all Christmas, all the time? It's her last chance at keeping her acting career, so she has no choice but to stick it out. But when boat captain Maddox is not only sweet to her, but also makes her feel something other than despair and grumpiness, she's rethinking her stance on Christmas, and love!
Maddox and Ivy are adorable together and make me wish Christmas were happening right now. Their story is low key, sweet insta-love.
ARC provided by Foreword PR & Marketing for an honest review.
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July 15, 2023
This was a reverse grumpy and sunshine.
Ivy didn't like the holidays but to save her career she needs to make this movie work. It's more because she has lost faith in love, so how can anything feel magical?
Well she wasn't ready for our heart throbe Maddox the captain of his boat, that will be used for filming. For him, he fell instantly for Ivy as soon as he saw her. He understood her and wasn't judgemental like everyone around her.
I really loved how Maddox treated her like a woman should be treated to bring the sunshine back to her life.
I also loved the name of the place 'Candy Cane Key'. Then all the Christmas related businesses was so cheesy but sooo perfect for this Christmas related book.
They both have a lot to work through if they are to be together. Can two people from two different worlds make it work?
Give it a read and fall in love with them and the holidays. Yes it's a short story but this kind story requires it to be quick, steamy and sweet.
Favourite Quote :
After all, this is Candy Cane Key, a magical island. What better place to find love?
Ivy didn't like the holidays but to save her career she needs to make this movie work. It's more because she has lost faith in love, so how can anything feel magical?
Well she wasn't ready for our heart throbe Maddox the captain of his boat, that will be used for filming. For him, he fell instantly for Ivy as soon as he saw her. He understood her and wasn't judgemental like everyone around her.
I really loved how Maddox treated her like a woman should be treated to bring the sunshine back to her life.
I also loved the name of the place 'Candy Cane Key'. Then all the Christmas related businesses was so cheesy but sooo perfect for this Christmas related book.
They both have a lot to work through if they are to be together. Can two people from two different worlds make it work?
Give it a read and fall in love with them and the holidays. Yes it's a short story but this kind story requires it to be quick, steamy and sweet.
Favourite Quote :
After all, this is Candy Cane Key, a magical island. What better place to find love?
June 22, 2023
This is a low angst instalove story that took me about an hour to read. Ivy is an actress whose career is on a downward spin after her ugly divorce. The latest Christmas movie could be her last shot. She's not in the mood for Christmas cheer and the rest of the staff think she's pretty uptight, but the local boat captain Maddox asks her on a date and brings joy back into her life. This could be your story if you want something with no real conflict between the two leads. There's no fight or break-up or other drama, just a bit of uncertainty because she lives in LA and he's based in Florida. I liked the way the main actor Josh got out of the last scene but would have liked Scott to comment on the relationship, since he was so critical of Ivy at some point.
Steam level: Some sexual content but I wouldn't call it steamy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Steam level: Some sexual content but I wouldn't call it steamy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 26, 2023
I didn’t realize when I received this that it was a novella, but as for a quick read, it was low angst, and sweet. Of course, fast paced and an insta love element, but if you’re looking for something quick and easy to read, this is definitely it.
Maddox is a permanent resident in Candy Cane Key, Florida, an Ivy is an actress for the Christmas Network who is deemed on her final leg. What people do not take into account is what Ivy is currently dealing with as far as her nasty and public divorce, but automatically peg her as difficult and acts like a diva. Maddox sees right though this and will do what it takes to get close to her.
She is only supposed to be there for two months, so during this time, her and Maddox become close, but of course, there is the lingering question as to what will happen once filming wraps. What will they do?
As mentioned before, this is a very quick and light read. Very sweet, and Maddox is everything.
Maddox is a permanent resident in Candy Cane Key, Florida, an Ivy is an actress for the Christmas Network who is deemed on her final leg. What people do not take into account is what Ivy is currently dealing with as far as her nasty and public divorce, but automatically peg her as difficult and acts like a diva. Maddox sees right though this and will do what it takes to get close to her.
She is only supposed to be there for two months, so during this time, her and Maddox become close, but of course, there is the lingering question as to what will happen once filming wraps. What will they do?
As mentioned before, this is a very quick and light read. Very sweet, and Maddox is everything.
July 2, 2023
This is a quick instalove novella set in the wonderful world of Christmas Network movies. Christmas is my favourite time of the year and I’m a sucker for Christmas movies so as soon as I read the blurb I knew this was going to be a book I needed to read.
Ivy is an actress who is hoping this Christmas movie is going help bring her back to the big time, it will either make it break her career so she heads off to Candy Cane Key to see what the future holds.
Maddox is a charter boat captain who calls Candy Cane Key home and he is helping out with the boat scenes. From the moment these two meet sparks fly, there is an instant connection and what follows is a fun, entertaining read that at times had me laughing out loud.
If you love Christmas this novella should certainly be on your radar and let’s be honest If you love the holiday season who wouldn’t want to call Candy Cane Key home. Great read and a great addition to A Man of the Month Novella Series.
Ivy is an actress who is hoping this Christmas movie is going help bring her back to the big time, it will either make it break her career so she heads off to Candy Cane Key to see what the future holds.
Maddox is a charter boat captain who calls Candy Cane Key home and he is helping out with the boat scenes. From the moment these two meet sparks fly, there is an instant connection and what follows is a fun, entertaining read that at times had me laughing out loud.
If you love Christmas this novella should certainly be on your radar and let’s be honest If you love the holiday season who wouldn’t want to call Candy Cane Key home. Great read and a great addition to A Man of the Month Novella Series.
July 5, 2023
Do I love Christmas? YES.
Do I love small town romances? YES
Do I love Hallmark Christmas movies? YES
If you also love all of these, then this book is for you!
Ivy is a famous Christmas movie actress, but this year isn't feeling the holiday spirit. After her husband cheats on her and their messy divorce is publicized, she is left dealing with the after effects of that.
Maddox is a small towner who lives in Candy Cane Key. He has been tasked with helping out with the movie that comes into town. His first job was to help bring the famous actress back to the local Inn. And that is when the insta-love started.
From there, the connection between Ivy and Maddox started getting stronger and stronger. Maddox was able to give Ivy the comfort that she so desperately needed and Ivy is giving Maddox the love that he has always wanted.
If you are looking for a sweet as candy, Christmas novella, then this is the book for you!
Do I love small town romances? YES
Do I love Hallmark Christmas movies? YES
If you also love all of these, then this book is for you!
Ivy is a famous Christmas movie actress, but this year isn't feeling the holiday spirit. After her husband cheats on her and their messy divorce is publicized, she is left dealing with the after effects of that.
Maddox is a small towner who lives in Candy Cane Key. He has been tasked with helping out with the movie that comes into town. His first job was to help bring the famous actress back to the local Inn. And that is when the insta-love started.
From there, the connection between Ivy and Maddox started getting stronger and stronger. Maddox was able to give Ivy the comfort that she so desperately needed and Ivy is giving Maddox the love that he has always wanted.
If you are looking for a sweet as candy, Christmas novella, then this is the book for you!
July 8, 2023
This is the book you read when you want a quick, light, no angst story. A few, not really threatening situations are included to give a little dimension. Basically, it has all of the elements of a Hallmark Christmas movie, about the filming of exactly that, a made for tv, small town Christmas movie that is supposedly a “last chance” acting gig for our h. In a slight reverse, it is the local H who has the breezy easy going character, with the h originally made out to be a Christmas hating, high maintenance character. We never really see any evidence of this, other than the first few sentences regarding her reputation and an allusion from a character who has worked with her before, the H does not see any of this behavior from her, nor do we, the readers. All in all, this novella gets right to the happy romance, and sometimes that’s all we need. I received a free copy of this book via book funnel and voluntarily leave a review.
July 3, 2023
4-star Review Lights, Camera, Christmas by Kara Kendrick
Although not a long book, Kara Kendrick has packed a lot into this entertaining read. Lights, Camera Christmas was a sweet, romantic, insta love story which ticked numerous boxes for me.
Maddox lives in Candy Cane Key, Florida (I just love the name) and when Ivy finds herself in town filming a movie, sparks fly. She hates the holidays and Maddox loves them; can he help bring the magic of Christmas back into Ivy’s life?
Ivy has so much on her plate, she is going through a nasty divorce and her career is in turmoil, in fact if she doesn’t make a success of this movie, it will be over. Maddox and Ivy could not be more different and yet there is something sizzling between them. Could love be in the cards for Maddox and Ivy? One click and find out.
Although not a long book, Kara Kendrick has packed a lot into this entertaining read. Lights, Camera Christmas was a sweet, romantic, insta love story which ticked numerous boxes for me.
Maddox lives in Candy Cane Key, Florida (I just love the name) and when Ivy finds herself in town filming a movie, sparks fly. She hates the holidays and Maddox loves them; can he help bring the magic of Christmas back into Ivy’s life?
Ivy has so much on her plate, she is going through a nasty divorce and her career is in turmoil, in fact if she doesn’t make a success of this movie, it will be over. Maddox and Ivy could not be more different and yet there is something sizzling between them. Could love be in the cards for Maddox and Ivy? One click and find out.
July 6, 2023
Mr. Christmas may just steal Ms. Grinch's heart!
Maddox Banks is a fishing charter captain in Candy Cane Key, Florida. He's a genuinely nice guy who's responsible, caring and fun to be with. He's HOT! He LOVES Christmas! His friend, Scott, a location scout for the network pitched the movie idea and Maddox was hooked! All the possibilities for the community.
Ivy Winters is a fading Hollywood star. She's being given one last shot to regain some of her former luster. She has the reputation of being a PITA prima donna.
She's a last minute casting addition in a Christmas Network film. It's made-for-tv movie to be filmed in Florida. During the summer. She hates Christmas. But Maddox may just be worth it.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Maddox Banks is a fishing charter captain in Candy Cane Key, Florida. He's a genuinely nice guy who's responsible, caring and fun to be with. He's HOT! He LOVES Christmas! His friend, Scott, a location scout for the network pitched the movie idea and Maddox was hooked! All the possibilities for the community.
Ivy Winters is a fading Hollywood star. She's being given one last shot to regain some of her former luster. She has the reputation of being a PITA prima donna.
She's a last minute casting addition in a Christmas Network film. It's made-for-tv movie to be filmed in Florida. During the summer. She hates Christmas. But Maddox may just be worth it.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
July 18, 2023
Lights, Camera, Christmas is a short and spicy, instalove, grumpy-sunshine, Christmas themed romance. Ivy is a disgruntled movie actress who is sent to film a Christmas movie in Candy Kane Key. She is going through a very public breakup, and it has tanked her career. She is also known as a bit of a diva, and this movie may be her last chance, so she takes it even though she is not a big Christmas fan. Maddox is a hunky captain who is part of the movie welcoming committee. He instantly falls for Ivy and realizes she is just misunderstood. Can this Christmas guy jingle her bells? This was a really cute story that had a Hallmark Christmas movie feel. Loved the characters. It was a short and sweet OTT romance with a little steam and a great HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2023
Living their own Christmas romance movie
Lights, Camera, Christmas by Kara Kendrick is part of the multi-author Man of the Month Club - Christmas in July series. We are back in Candy Cane Key only this time there is also a movie crew taking over the island for a couple of months. The leading lady, Ivy Winters, has one last shot to prove she is not difficult to work with after having a horrible last year personally. Maddox Banks is a captain of a boat that he runs with his brother. He is more than a little excited about the filming as one of their boats has been hired out for the full production schedule and that means a lot of money. Ivy and Maddox hit it off from the start, even though she is reticent. But soon Maddox is winning over his new leading lady and that may just lead to a lifetime romance movie starting themselves.
Lights, Camera, Christmas by Kara Kendrick is part of the multi-author Man of the Month Club - Christmas in July series. We are back in Candy Cane Key only this time there is also a movie crew taking over the island for a couple of months. The leading lady, Ivy Winters, has one last shot to prove she is not difficult to work with after having a horrible last year personally. Maddox Banks is a captain of a boat that he runs with his brother. He is more than a little excited about the filming as one of their boats has been hired out for the full production schedule and that means a lot of money. Ivy and Maddox hit it off from the start, even though she is reticent. But soon Maddox is winning over his new leading lady and that may just lead to a lifetime romance movie starting themselves.
June 28, 2023
MMC/FMC- Maddox and Ivy
POV- 1st person dual
Genre- Contemporary Romance
Sub Genre- Holiday Romance
Heat level- they do the thing without naming most of the parts
Bonus- link to extra scene
Series? Y
Cliffhanger? N
HEA/HFN? Y
Triggers- erotic content and some language
Tropes- Grumpy/Sunshine, He Falls First, Small Town, Ho-Ho-Oh!
What I liked- I was all set for Ivy to be a real diva, but she didn’t turn out that way. And the story was sweet.
What I didn’t- one of the jerks was more stereotype than character. But this is a short story, so not a lot of time for development.
Verdict- a cute story with 2/5 steam, light and enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
POV- 1st person dual
Genre- Contemporary Romance
Sub Genre- Holiday Romance
Heat level- they do the thing without naming most of the parts
Bonus- link to extra scene
Series? Y
Cliffhanger? N
HEA/HFN? Y
Triggers- erotic content and some language
Tropes- Grumpy/Sunshine, He Falls First, Small Town, Ho-Ho-Oh!
What I liked- I was all set for Ivy to be a real diva, but she didn’t turn out that way. And the story was sweet.
What I didn’t- one of the jerks was more stereotype than character. But this is a short story, so not a lot of time for development.
Verdict- a cute story with 2/5 steam, light and enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2023
A struggling actress finds herself in Christmas land.
Ivy has had a rough time in her career lately. Between her divorce and her lackluster movies, she needs this new movie to be a hit. Landing in Candy Cane Key, it's everything she thought it would be and nothing she expected. The first man she meets on the island is Mattox, the sunshine to her grumpy. One date and she's insta-lost in his arms.
A quick novella with zero angst and not a whole lot of time to build up their chemistry. It's a good story, just wished it was longer for more time to fluff out the story. Mattox is sweet and Ivy's complete opposite. He falls first and hard and somehow in a matter of days convinces her to give them a chance and move to Candy Cane Key. A little farfetched, but to be expected in a novella.
Ivy has had a rough time in her career lately. Between her divorce and her lackluster movies, she needs this new movie to be a hit. Landing in Candy Cane Key, it's everything she thought it would be and nothing she expected. The first man she meets on the island is Mattox, the sunshine to her grumpy. One date and she's insta-lost in his arms.
A quick novella with zero angst and not a whole lot of time to build up their chemistry. It's a good story, just wished it was longer for more time to fluff out the story. Mattox is sweet and Ivy's complete opposite. He falls first and hard and somehow in a matter of days convinces her to give them a chance and move to Candy Cane Key. A little farfetched, but to be expected in a novella.
July 7, 2023
Looking for a terrific insta-love romance set in Candy Cane Key, Florida? Well, look no further. Lights, Camera Christmas gives us a swoon-worthy Maddox, a resident of Candy Cane, and a Hollywood star, Ivy, who is going through a bad divorce and has a reputation for being a diva, but is she? Maddox falls instantly for Ivy and sees that she is not the diva that people are making her out to be. With Ivy only being in Candy Cane Key for a couple of months, will she let the walls down? Will Maddox show her that she is worth the love that he wants to give her?
Yes this book is a novella and I absolutely loved reading it, I would love to see a full-length book with Maddox and Ivy. Grab this sweet and short story that will have you wanting to visit Candy Cane Key, Florida.
Yes this book is a novella and I absolutely loved reading it, I would love to see a full-length book with Maddox and Ivy. Grab this sweet and short story that will have you wanting to visit Candy Cane Key, Florida.
July 2, 2023
This was a insta love ( for the male character at least) story and a quick read if you’re looking for something short and sweet. Maddox is a happy go lucky all round good bloke from Candy Cane keys where everyday feels like Christmas and Ivy from L.A an actress that is coming to the end of her career thanks to an ahole of an ex husband! She’s the ultimate grinch but who could blame her. Everyone in the film crew thinks she’s a diva but Maddox sees the real person, a woman who is hurting due to the aforementioned ex and soon a steamy love affair ensues. I enjoyed this a lot and the bonus was romantic too. Feel good book
July 3, 2023
This is a cute and quick romantic story. It hits all the wonderful key points needed in that perfect romance. With no third act breakup.
It’s lighthearted but heartfelt. I enjoyed reading it. It’s a perfect palate cleanser between darker or longer stories.
It’s definitely a fun and worthwhile read.
The FMC, Ivy, is grumpy and going through a hard time. Meeting the MMC, Maddox, the sunshiny local, brings a joy to her life she didn’t realize she was missing.
The HEA is sweet and endearing. And I can’t wait to read more.
I received this ARC for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
It’s lighthearted but heartfelt. I enjoyed reading it. It’s a perfect palate cleanser between darker or longer stories.
It’s definitely a fun and worthwhile read.
The FMC, Ivy, is grumpy and going through a hard time. Meeting the MMC, Maddox, the sunshiny local, brings a joy to her life she didn’t realize she was missing.
The HEA is sweet and endearing. And I can’t wait to read more.
I received this ARC for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
July 5, 2023
🎄 ARC REVIEW 🚤
Review: 3.5/5 ⭐️
Steam: 1/5 🔥
This novella is short and sweet. Continuing along in Candy Cane Keys with the man of the month series we see another true insta love story.
Maddox meets Ivy by chance while she’s filming a movie in his small Christmas town. There’s instant attraction on both ends at first sight. Ivy is recently divorced and thought she swore off love. Maddox showed her there’s genuine, good, hot guys out there. Neither stood a chance of getting away.
If you want a quick easy read then here it is. Minimal angst, insta love, small town an opposites attract all rolled into one.
Review: 3.5/5 ⭐️
Steam: 1/5 🔥
This novella is short and sweet. Continuing along in Candy Cane Keys with the man of the month series we see another true insta love story.
Maddox meets Ivy by chance while she’s filming a movie in his small Christmas town. There’s instant attraction on both ends at first sight. Ivy is recently divorced and thought she swore off love. Maddox showed her there’s genuine, good, hot guys out there. Neither stood a chance of getting away.
If you want a quick easy read then here it is. Minimal angst, insta love, small town an opposites attract all rolled into one.
July 10, 2023
What a cute reverse grumpy sunshine story. I say reverse cuz, well the grump always seems to be the guy, but here's it's the girl. Nice change of pace.
Ivy is a Christmas Movie (almost hasbeen) Star who's recently gone through a very public divorce.
Maddox is a townie. He runs a boat charter with his twin brother. When Ivy and Maddox collide the butterflies erupt and Ivy isn't quite so grumpy anymore.
This is a cute, quick, lighthearted read. I read it in one sitting while the fam was engrossed in some show or other, lol. I've recently become a fan of this authors lighthearted, sexy stories that are always very well written! This is a great beach read!
Ivy is a Christmas Movie (almost hasbeen) Star who's recently gone through a very public divorce.
Maddox is a townie. He runs a boat charter with his twin brother. When Ivy and Maddox collide the butterflies erupt and Ivy isn't quite so grumpy anymore.
This is a cute, quick, lighthearted read. I read it in one sitting while the fam was engrossed in some show or other, lol. I've recently become a fan of this authors lighthearted, sexy stories that are always very well written! This is a great beach read!
July 10, 2023
Kara Kendrick’s novella ‘Lights, Camera, Christmas’ is s sexy, action packed, and a perfect happy ever after for Ivy and Maddox. She’s feeling down with her ex’s shenanigans and her flagging career: she needs this movie to keep her relevant. He’s a boat captain, hot, and a very happy guy.
This is a fast read with a great setting, insta love/lust, and a well written dialogue. Kara keeps the story interesting, the couple memorable, their moments sweetly sexy and touching, and a great extra chapter. Gotta love Christmas in July!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a fast read with a great setting, insta love/lust, and a well written dialogue. Kara keeps the story interesting, the couple memorable, their moments sweetly sexy and touching, and a great extra chapter. Gotta love Christmas in July!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2023
Sweet little ‘insta love’ story you will absolutely adore! Think Santa meets Ms Grinch! Lol! Ivy is not living her best life when what could possibly be her last movie takes her to Candy Cane Key. There she is supposed to film a Christmas movie. She is definitely in a buh humbug mood! Her life has been more like a box of coal than a stocking full of treats, that is until she meets Maddox.
Maddox loves Christmas and his life at Candy Cane Key. Mr. Christmas himself took one look at Ivy and knew she was the Christmas present he had been waiting for his whole life! Now all he has to do is convince Ivy he is right!
Sweet and a little bit spicy, this was a quick and cute read!
Maddox loves Christmas and his life at Candy Cane Key. Mr. Christmas himself took one look at Ivy and knew she was the Christmas present he had been waiting for his whole life! Now all he has to do is convince Ivy he is right!
Sweet and a little bit spicy, this was a quick and cute read!
July 20, 2023
Maddox and Ivy's Story . . .
Maddox Banks, a fishing charter captain, lives in Candy Cane Key, Florida. He is a good-natured sweetheart kind of guy who loves Christmas. Ivy, on the other hand, is a failing actress who hates the holiday and her nasty divorce has put her in a very non-Christmas mood. It seems bad luck and trouble hang over her on the set as they film the made-for-TV holiday movie. Everything that can go wrong does. Will being exposed to Maddox’s good cheer and gentle spirit put her in a better frame of mind? And once the Christmas show wraps up, will Ivy be on her way to the next location and leave Maddox behind?
Maddox Banks, a fishing charter captain, lives in Candy Cane Key, Florida. He is a good-natured sweetheart kind of guy who loves Christmas. Ivy, on the other hand, is a failing actress who hates the holiday and her nasty divorce has put her in a very non-Christmas mood. It seems bad luck and trouble hang over her on the set as they film the made-for-TV holiday movie. Everything that can go wrong does. Will being exposed to Maddox’s good cheer and gentle spirit put her in a better frame of mind? And once the Christmas show wraps up, will Ivy be on her way to the next location and leave Maddox behind?
July 22, 2023
Maddox is a local boat captain, helping out the movie people that are in town to make a Christmas movie. Ivy is a movie star, but her world is coming apart as she goes through a messy divorce the same time as she is making a Christmas movie - in July - and everyone thinks she is just being a diva instead. These two get together and sparks ignite, making her world a little nicer. Great characters and the storyline was well paced with drama, entertaining situations, great banter and sass, surprises, chemistry, acceptance, steam and more that keeps the pages turning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 23, 2023
I enjoyed Lights, Camera, Christmas: Man of the Month Club - Christmas in July. Ivy’s life is kind of low right now, a washed up actress whose husband was cheating with anything and everything. This new film in Candy Cane Key is her last chance tk save her career. She wasn’t expecting Maddox. He’s turned her while world upside down and brought true love into her life. But what happens when it’s time for her to go back to LA? This was such a cute and sweet story. I loved the storyline and the characters. It’s a quick and easy read. I would definitely recommend this book and the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2023
Ivy’s Hollywood stardom is slowly sinking and her last hope is a Christmas movie filmed on Candy Cane Key. It wouldn’t be so bad but she hates the holidays and the humidity makes her hair frizz. Maddox meets Ivy at the airport with the rest of the crew and cast and he’s immediate smitten. Lucky for him he’s a part of the movie and will get to spend most of his time with Ivy. Slowly but surely the Christmas hoopla begins to grow on Ivy and she recognizes that she might be lucky enough to find love. Another awesome story in Candy Cane Key where everyone knows each other and makes you feel like family. I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2023
2.5⭐️
This is a short and sweet novella. This story follows Maddox and Ivy. Ivy is an actress in town to film a Hallmark type movie and Maddox is assisting with the production. Ivy is recently divorced and has sworn off love. Maddox wants to change her mind.
This is an insta-love story, the romance is sweet but they do go from strangers to in love in only a couple of months. I think the story was hindered a bit by it being a novella. I think if the story could've been developed a little more I would've enjoyed it more.
Overall, this is a quick fun read. If you like novellas and insta-love this is the book for you!
This is a short and sweet novella. This story follows Maddox and Ivy. Ivy is an actress in town to film a Hallmark type movie and Maddox is assisting with the production. Ivy is recently divorced and has sworn off love. Maddox wants to change her mind.
This is an insta-love story, the romance is sweet but they do go from strangers to in love in only a couple of months. I think the story was hindered a bit by it being a novella. I think if the story could've been developed a little more I would've enjoyed it more.
Overall, this is a quick fun read. If you like novellas and insta-love this is the book for you!
August 28, 2023
A short and spicy christmas themed romance about Ivy and Maddox. Ivy is a famous Christmas movie actress, but this year isn't feeling the holiday spirit. After her husband cheats on her and their messy divorce is publicized, she is left dealing with the after effects of that. Maddox loves Christmas, he is a small towner who lives in Candy Cane Key. He has been tasked with helping out with the movie that comes into town. Mr. Christmas himself took one look at Ivy and knew she was the Christmas present he had been waiting for his whole life! Now all he has to do is convince Ivy he is right! I read it in one sitting and I absolutely loved these two.
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