REVIEW: Even though Nevaeh Richards likes to bring out the natural beauty in celebrities, she prefers the privacy of hiding in the shadows of her stylist's chair. But when a photo of Nevaeh with Hollywood movie star Lamont Booker goes viral, her peaceful life gets crazy.

Nevaeh and Lamont agree this photo of them together looks like Lamont has compromised his Christian virtues, which will tarnish his marketability, so a plan is devised to save his reputation and career.

The publicist tells them to act quickly, they agree to dates for appearances only. When Nevaeh is thrown into a world of glitz and glamor, her world is completely turned upside down. Her privacy is invaded, her faith is questioned, and her curves are scrutinized.

A fictitious dating arrangement quickly develops into something more. Lamont ponders if he should trust God with everything, from his mother's illness to whether he should live for his career or for God.

The author shows that celebrities are real people doing their best in navigating a media crazy world. The themes that naturally flow through the novel are reality vs perception, letting God defend you or devising your own plans, what is faith? Was it possible to save intimacy for marriage?

I like how the author described this series, “Real to life characters who are thrust into the spotlight. In the world of internet famous, these books will show how hard it is to navigate fame, faith, and love.”

This is the first novel I’ve read by this author; it won’t be the last. I enjoyed this story and its characters, it was a fun, humorous and thought-provoking adventure I adored. I look forward to reading the second installment of this Love in the Spotlight series. This is a great escape and one that would work for a book club pick.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

If I had to list my favorite romance tropes, I must admit that fake dating is pretty high at the top of my list. I love a good fake dating story! But I have to say that I've never seen it done quite like this...

The story starts out with an innocent picture taken of Nevaeh (a hairstylist) and Lamont (an actor) by the paparazzi that is twisted into something not-so-innocent. Lamont is a Christian, who has made a commitment to celibacy, despite being in a world where that wasn't the norm. In an effort to protect their reputations, fake dating is suggested. Still, being Christians, they aren't super comfortable with the lie and decide to actually date to make the story not a lie. Like I said, not quite your usual fake dating scenario! While I personally have no issues with this trope, knowing they are works of fiction, I've certainly seen other Christian readers comment their unease with it... so I thought this was just a really fun take on the whole thing. Of course, it does share one thing in common with other stories of this nature--- we know that eventually they'll get their happily ever after!

If you are someone who like their Christian romances with just a slight hint of Christian content... well, honestly, this one might not be for you! Their faith is a huge part of these characters and their lives, shaping each and every decision they make throughout. They are constantly praying, there is a lot of talk about church and seeking God's direction for their relationship and their lives. Again, I really thought that brought a unique take on the story and I really enjoyed it... but I can certainly see where it would not be for all readers too.

In addition to a really sweet love story and a great message of faith, it had a few other messages that stuck out to me as well. First, it was a good reminder that what we see in the media isn't always the real story. Also, though Neveah was a Christian from the start, she struggled with church, which I think so many people can relate to these days. There were some really great moments on that topic too, which I thought was nice.

Overall, this was a fun celebrity romance with a Christian spin and so much fun to read! It's definitely one worth checking out.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All opinions are my own.

Toni Shiloh always writes with joy and poise. The Love Script was a sweet escape between the pages. I enjoyed myself being a reader being placed in the storyline. So happy and appreciative of being able to read an Arc copy of this . #thelovescript #netgalley

Take a faith-filled trip to Tinseltown in the latest from author Toni Shiloh, The Love Script.
Neveah Richards is trying to make it in Hollywood…as a key hair stylist on film sets. Her passion is to use her talents to highlight the shine in others, while keeping the spotlight firmly off herself. In the meantime, she has a part time salon job as well as private clients, one of whom is Ms. Rosie Booker.
Lamont Booker has made it to the top as an actor, and is a stunner to boot. But there is more to him than his looks and talent. Since coming to know the Lord, he’s boldly shared his faith and worked hard to live as an example to others.
Lamont also loves his mama, Ms. Rosie, who came to live with him while battling illness.
Leaving the Booker home after seeing Ms. Rosie one day, Neveah trips on the outside step, and the picture a nosy paparazzi caught made Lamont catching her look anything but innocent. With his faith called into question, as well as both their reputations, a plan is hatched for a fake relationship. But what if the Lord is using this tabloid photo to start building something new and wonderful between this unlikely couple? Can His plans for Neveah and Lamont be greater than all the obstacles thrown their way in the meantime?
You’ll want to find out in The Love Script! Plus it has my favorite…an epilogue! I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.

I have loved all of Shiloh's books and this one is no different. It's refreshing to read of an actor who is working to live out his faith in a hostile environment. I appreciated the care Lamont took of his mother and of Nevaeh. I also liked that Nevaeh was a plus-sized heroine and that Lamont truly thought she was beautiful. It's not often seen in books and movies.

This book does a good job of showing how obnoxious and difficult life can become when you're the focus of the paparazzi. I can't imagine how hard it would be for someone who is unwittingly thrust into that spotlight. I felt for Nevaeh as her life changed so drastically.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. I'd highly recommend it. All opinions are my own.

Toni Shiloh has long been an auto-buy author for me and The Love Script further cemented that opinion.

This story sees Nevaeh, a Hollywood hairdresser saved from tripping by megastar actor Lamont Booker. Unfortunately the moment is snapped by a member of the paparazzi and misinterpreted. In order to save Lamont’s reputation and career, the two are encouraged to begin a fake relationship.

As both are Christians, neither feel good about lying, so agree to date in earnest. While this move boosts Lamont’s successful brand, it only makes Nevaeh’s life harder as the press dog her every step, ruining her work and living situation. And I’m not telling you any more of the story.

As ever with a Shiloh book, there’s a lot of lightheartedness, but also substance. And this is no different as both main characters wrestle with where to put their trust. Do they allow the Lord to dictate their steps or do they take matters into their own hands? There’s plenty of witty banter and several secondary characters that made me highly anticipate Shiloh’s next two offerings.

The characters are likable from the start, the baddies are thoroughly dislikable and the research into the high profile careers makes the story that bit more entertaining. I finished this book in two days. If you like contemporary romance with light and depth, this is a must read.

I received a copy of The Love Script from the publisher, via NetGalley. The gushing is all my own and well deserved.

The Love Script is a beautifully written, multicultural Christian contemporary romance book.

Before I start my review, and to be very transparent, I had a hard getting into this book at first purely because there was a lot of talk about religion and trusting in God to guide the characters through tough times. As someone not as religious as I was growing up, some dialogue was tough to get through, but this review will not include my religious beliefs.

The fake dating aspect was done very well. I felt that both Nevaeh and Lamont had chemistry right away, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow. It was apparent that both struggled to navigate a new romantic relationship, especially when it started fake. Lamont had a bad boy persona when he was younger, and now he is juggling keeping up his reputation and celibacy promise while being in the public eye. Nevaeh immediately struggled with the complications of dating a celebrity and how it affected her life and career. It was easy to root for them as they became more invested in their relationship as the media and society became more intrusive. I also loved that the book was full of realistic moments and internal struggles many people have. Overall this was a great book and I really enjoyed the romance.

Thank you to NetGallery and to Bethany House for giving me a copy of the book.

I. Love. This. Book.

Review over. Everyone can go home.

Ok, yeah, y’all know I have more to say. The Love Script is everything I love about Toni Shiloh’s books! It’s smart, it’s witty, it’s swoony, and it portrays characters who love Jesus and want to follow Him well. It also reminds me in all the best ways of one of my all-time favorite contemporary romances – Newlywed Games by Mary Davis. Not only because both books are smart, witty, and swoony but also because both books wrestle with the spiritual implications of perpetuating a public lie to protect someone’s reputation. Especially when the reputation in question is built on being a new creation.

Nevaeh is sassy, witty, and warmhearted, and readers will instantly adore her, cheering solidly in her corner from word one. Her parents want her to be a teacher, she works as a hair stylist (with occasional jobs on film sets) but she dreams of seeing her name in the credits as a show or movie’s key stylist. Also, shout out for a curvy girl heroine!! I laughed out loud at Nevaeh’s adventures in shapewear, and I so deeply appreciated the discussions on embracing who you are vs. the impossible standards Hollywood & social media push on us. Her spiritual struggles – as well as her reactions to all the things that go along with dating Lamont Booker – are relatable to a lot of us, too, and they just made me love her character even more.

Lamont Booker (yes, I refer to him by both names like Nevaeh hilariously does at first, too) … People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive (aka Mr. SMA) in this fictional Hollywood universe Shiloh has created… is book boyfriend swoonliciousness. He loves Jesus, his momma (who is a fabulous supporting character), and his work as an actor, and he carefully guards his sinner-saved-by-grace image. All of the above causes the attempt at damage control that leads to a quasi-fake dating relationship with Nevaeh, his mother’s hair stylist. Enter romance, stage left. Husky voices, flirty winks, tender concern, a smolder or two, and fanworthy kisses are also due to make an appearance. One of my favorite things about Lamont Booker (aside from all the things I just mentioned) are his group text messages with his two best friends. Not only does this set up the heroes for the next two books but the accountability and prayer support that Lamont Booker gets from his friendships with Chris and Tuck is really special. So often, we see female characters having those kind of bonds, but rarely do we see the heroes having the same. Also, Shiloh absolutely nailed their banter & voices.

Bottom Line: The Love Script is my favorite Toni Shiloh book so far! (And that’s saying a LOT because I absolutely adored In Search of a Prince) It’s a modern day fairy tale, full of plenty of opportunities to grin, swoon, and even laugh out loud. Shiloh incorporates faith themes that are both thoughtful and convicting, without being preachy, and the characters are richly layered and easily loved. All the pluses we would dream go along with dating a famous actor are on full display, but so are the downsides – and the author does a great job of presenting the balance. A character-driven, feel-good romance with depth!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

I really enjoyed this contemporary romance by Toni Shiloh. I loved how Lamont stayed true to his Christian beliefs even though he was a famous actor. I also loved that although Neveah and Lamont’s relationship didn’t start out the way they would have liked, it did get them to notice each other and to grow in their faith and their love. I loved how Toni showed them growing together. I thought this was a wonderful story. It kept me engaged the whole time and I did want to put it down. I thought she did a wonderful job and would love to see other books with some of the other characters like Lamont’s friends. Overall, it was a really good book.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

Loved this cute contemporary Christian romance! This is my first book by Toni Shiloh, and I can’t wait to read more. It’s a swoony, well written, relatable, fun, fake relationship story that completely drew me in. It was also a refreshing example of people really living their faith and wrestling with the challenges and outside pressures that come from doing that.

Nevaeh was such a likable character. She’s a hairstylist who lands a great opportunity styling the hair of the mother of Lamont Booker, one of Hollywood’s most famous actors. She captures Lamont’s notice when his mother is sick and she stays to fix her some soup. As she’s leaving, she happens to trip and there’s the handsome Hollywood heartthrob there just in time to catch her. Unbeknownst to them, a paparazzi photographer is lying in wait to photograph what looks like an intimate moment, and soon Social Media is buzzing.

Lamont decided to turn his life around when he found his faith. He wants to use his fame to be an example to others and strives to live by the highest standards. So when the photograph of him and Nevaeh starts circulating and threatens his reputation, his agent proposes a fake relationship with Nevaeh to save his image. Soon their fake relationship turns into something more as they spend time together and really get to know each other. But, what happens if his fans learn it was all fake in the beginning?

There were so many aspects I enjoyed about this story. I loved the heartthrob actor falling for the “average” girl. Average sounds wrong because Nevaeh was extraordinary in her kindness, attitude, and faith, but you get the idea. She’s just a normal person who suddenly has the spotlight thrust upon her. She’s faced with overwhelming pressure surrounding everything from her appearance to her standards. I loved how she wasn’t afraid to be herself and stand up for her values. Nevaeh also struggles with wanting to worship, but not feeling particularly comfortable in the church community. I appreciated how she worked through her feelings.

Lamont is such a swoonworthy hero and a great example! I loved the fact that he’s not only this gorgeous Hollywood actor, but also a good, upstanding guy. He wants to help and protect Nevaeh, and isn’t afraid to be who he is. I loved how he inspired Nevaeh, and especially his grand gesture at the end.

Absolutely loved this story and would definitely recommend it to teens and young adults. It’s romantic, yet inspirational. I can’t wait for the next book in the series! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.

Such a fun book with a great faith message. We also enjoyed hosting Toni on the StoryChats podcast. You can find that episode here: https://youtu.be/j9n0YsxJhtM

The Love Script is such a cute Christian Romance. I really liked the fact that the Christian themes were done well throughout the whole book. It referenced Scripture, but it never felt preachy. Everything came about naturally, and was never forced, which is something I find off-putting in a lot of Christian books. This one was never like that. It made this feel like a relaxing, Christian book.

The romance was so cute. I loved the characters from the first moment I met them. They were so easy to read about and all of the things they struggled with throughout the book were handled true to character.

I don't have anything bad to say about this book. Except, maybe that it was too short! I got to the end and I wanted to keep going. I was enjoying the book so much, I'm disappointed that it ended.

I highly recommend the story. I have the ebook copy, but I actually plan on buying the book because of how much I enjoyed it.

I read an ARC of this book for free, and I voluntarily left this honest review.

I loved this book! It's a fun sweet read that hooks you on the first page. Nevaeh and Lamont's story is so well written you feel like you are there. This book will make you laugh out loud in spots. I loved everything about this wonderful book and look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House and Toni Shiloh via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Love Script is the first book in the "Love in the Spotlight series" and is also my first time reading a book by Toni Shiloh.

The Love Script is a wholesome romantic comedy, that is full of depth and substance. A perfect read for summer, readers will be charmed as they experience the life of two people building a relationship under the microscope of Hollywood. Full of realistic moments and authentic struggles, The Love Script reminds you famous individuals are everyday people too!

Toni’s inclusion of humor, pop culture references and character relatability will keep you on your toes and devouring this book quickly! I can’t wait for the next two books and am looking forward to seeing how Toni develops the strong, successful, spiritual male characters and their friendship, as our world needs more leading men, such as these, as role models.

What happens when a "fake relationship" begins to bother your conscience?
It can be a challenging trope in Christian fiction. What constitutes lying? When does the end justify the means? And what do you do when you find you're falling for the person you are just pretending to like?

Toni Shiloh does a masterful job combining celebrity status + fake relationship trope to = fun and thought-provoking Christian fiction in The Love Script.

Along with themes of truth and beauty, I appreciated the way Shiloh's characters worked through the issue of church attendance.

When hair stylist Nevaeh Richards trips on actor Lamont Booker’s stairs outside his home and he catches her, a photographer snaps their picture and changes their lives forever. Soon they are dating and trying to fix Lamont’s reputation. As they get to know each other better, they also begin to learn more about God and His Word. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles set in front of them? I loved this book and was so encouraged by the biblical truths contained in it. I laughed out loud many times at the characters’ antics, marked many good and insightful quotes, and even examined my own relationship with God as I read. Nevaeh’s personality was delightful, Lamont’s text threads with his friends were hilarious, and I personally related to Nevaeh’s perception of herself as she struggled with the unrealistic expectations placed upon women and their looks. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next story in the series! I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

The Love Script is my first Toni Shiloh book. It definitely won’t be my last. The first in her Love in the Spotlight series, this one begins much stronger than the relationship manufactured to save face for Hollywood super star Lamont Booker and hair stylist Nevaeh Richards when the paparazzi catch the two in something that looks like, but isn’t, a romantic embrace. Trying to save face and maintain Lamont’s witness for God, they agree to begin dating, unprepared for the consequences. And the consequences mount rapidly, from paparazzi harassment beyond Nevaeh’s imagination to conviction that lying to save one’s witness does not glorify God. Naturally, there’s also the complication that comes from accidentally falling in love with someone who is pretending to be in love with you while you’re pretending to be in love with them. Shiloh writes characters who are easy to love with banter I could just eat up. The Love Script is packed with hard hitting biblical truth without sounding preachy, and it hit me in some places I needed to be convicted. I came for the sweet romance and stayed for the hearty truth.

Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me a copy to read and review. All opinions expressed here are my own and are completely genuine.

LOVE SCRIPT by Toni Shiloh

I was happy to read Love Script, the first book in Love in the Spotlight series. It's a Christian contemporary romance set in an environment where public image is important. I loved how the author navigated through the realities of Hollywood but was still able to weave faith elements wonderfully.

The sweet romance was delightful. Nevaeh's life had changed a lot with their agreement. She managed it well and for the most part, she continued to be hopeful. I really appreciated the way the story handled the topics of going to church, skin color, and body shape and size. I also liked that both Lamont and Nevaeh have good relationships with their parents despite differences.

It's not often that books feature male friendships so I enjoyed this part of the book too. I loved how caring Lamont, Tucker and Chris to each other. They prayed for each other's well-being, but they also bickered over the smallest things. It was fun.

Readers who enjoy a good laugh, a heartwarming story, and a touch of faith will love this book. I can't wait to read the other

Rating : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub date : 01 Aug 2023

Thank you Bethany House Publishers and #netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Fake relationships. We’ve seen them in movies and TV shows and have read about them. Toni Shiloh changes the game with her twist of fake relationships by causing her characters to do the most outrageous thing: actually date. Yes, this is your typical girl and guy get caught in a pickle and then said girl and guy must fake date one another. but with a subtle addition. Lamont suggests that he and Navaeh don’t fake their relationship for the public but date one another until the ruse of a relationship is not so fake.

As one can imagine, this brings an onslaught of trouble, love, and humor that Toni successfully delivers to her audience.

An admiral quality to The Love Script is how realistic the characters are from the first page ‘till the end. To me, a good side character makes an even greater story. Toni allows the side characters like Lamont’s quirky friends or Navaeh’s elderly but quippy neighbor to enhance the journey the main characters walk. The banter between the bubbles of text messages or the conversations shared amidst the sweet ambiance of cake and cookies drift from the pages to the readers with ease.

Two-fold love is one way to describe this CCR book best. Love of self and love of others.

Toni addresses the need to view oneself with love —regardless of wealth, body weight, and career—in Navaeh’s journey of self-discovery and search for God. Their apparent opposites make this romance between the two main characters so lovable. Rich and poor. Famous and overlooked. Again, not a foreign story but one that has you rooting for Lamont and Navaeh to overcome the odds.

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Oh my stars! What a phenomenal read! I’ve been a huge fan of Toni Shiloh’s books for years, and they are always most anticipated releases for me!
I seriously adored The Love Script so very much! I loved Nevaeh, she is a wonderful heroine and I found myself relating to her faith journey. And Lamont is AMAZING! Where can I find me a man like him?!
I adored all the characters, Nevaeh, Lamont, Ms. Rosie, Tuck, Piper, and Chris. I wish they were real because I would love to be friends with them!
I’m fascinated by Hollywood and if a book is set there and features at least one celebrity character then sign me up! I loved the way the author brought to life the pros and cons of life in the spotlight, and the challenges (and the positives) that come with being a Christ-follower in Hollywood! Loved, loved, LOVED that!
I always love the way Toni Shiloh so beautifully and organically weaves faith into her stories!
This book was an absolute joy to read and I loved every single moment of it!
I love everything that Toni Shiloh writes, but The Love Script is one of my very favorites of her books, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I most highly recommend The Love Script! Grab yourself a copy ASAP! You do not wanna miss this beautiful masterpiece!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.