Noel Stark (pen name for Debra Felstead) goes behind the scenes of a film/TV studio where relationships, rivalries, and raunchy moments collide.

The main romance is that of Jory and Cali, whose attraction to each other starts as purely sexual, but develops into something more.

Aside from their difficult bond, actors Thalia and Paolo prove difficult to control. The psyche of a set and it's players is strongly conveyed, as well as a few exquisitely written sex scenes.

Love, Camera, Action balances the reality of physical need with the lines that can be crossed for sexual gratification, especially when your whole life is playing a game.

The health issues of one character seems too peripheral and unnecessary, but even the minor executive characters are fleshed out and believable.

Whether Cali and Jory will survive beyond their touch and tease mind games is left open, and a slightly clumsy epilogue adds little.

However, this is a real page-turner that ventures into the back room behind the pictures we see on TV, and bubbles with vibrant writing.

*Love, Camera, Action* is a sizzling romance set on a high-pressure film set. It follows ambitious TV director Cali Daniels and renowned cinematographer Jory Blair as they navigate their complex professional and personal relationship. Their undeniable chemistry and witty banter keep the story engaging.

While the tension builds to steamy moments, the workplace setting adds intrigue as they juggle their growing attraction with their careers. However, the characters' backstories and motivations feel underdeveloped, and the pacing can be uneven. Overall, it's a fun, flirty read for fans of romantic comedies looking for a lighthearted escape with plenty of heat.

I've always wanted to see a romance unfold between behind-the-film characters so voila, here we have a director of photography (DP) x director romance! A simple story between a scrappy director and an uninspired DP where both have ambitions for more while juggling personal worries that could sidetrack their focus or careers on a TV show struck by a woke PR nightmare. Their combined stubbornness and awkward but occasionally brilliant or flirty knee-jerk comebacks make their banters and creative collaborations on set engaging to read. The book layers its conflicts with occupational and gender power dynamics, that in entertainment have been discussed en masse in real life, between TV execs, directors, assistants, and actors. Plus, due to the limited scope and tight focus of its storylines, this was a joyful all-in-one-sitting read!

Thanks to Netgalley and Alcove Press for providing me with the e-ARC/DRC in exchange for an honest review.

A fun, spicy romance that kept me hooked from start to finish!

I couldn’t put this book down and quickly became invested in the dynamic between Cali and Jory. Stark excels at crafting sharp banter and simmering tension, which practically leap off the page as their relationship intensifies amidst the backdrop of a TV set. The story gives a fresh, modern perspective on life behind the scenes of a television production, while also highlighting the unique challenges faced by a female director—managing not just the actors and a series of steamy scenes, but also navigating workplace politics, including a frustratingly chauvinist showrunner.

Jory, on the other hand, is a lovable mess—skilled at his job but struggling with his personal life. Both characters must confront their fears of commitment and break through their emotional barriers to find their happy ending, all while handling the workplace drama that comes with working in entertainment.

The character development and interactions are so expertly written that I had to remind myself this is a debut novel.

Super fun, spicy romance story!

I raced through this book and grew thoroughly invested in Cali and Jory's relationship. Stark certainly knows how to write banter and longing, and both flare off the page as sparks fly through the story and the TV set where our leads work. I liked the modern look at a TV set, as well as the challenges faced by a female director, not only as she shoots several pivotal, spicy scenes for her series, but also as she manages the actors, the tensions on set, and eventually the chauvinist showrunner. Meanwhile, Jory is a delightful bundle of nerves, fully competent at his job but terrified of events in his personal life. Both characters must fight through their fears of commitment to earn a happy ending, in addition to navigating the workplace drama of working in drama.
The character interactions are so well-written that I was shocked when I realized this is a debut novel. I'm looking forward to more from Noel Stark!

Great for fans of the workplace-romances by Kerry Winfrey and Yulan Kuang (How to End a Love Story).

"Love, Camera, Action" by Noel Stark unfolds a mesmerizing tale of romance set against the dazzling world of television production. At its heart, we meet Cali Daniels, a driven TV director, and Jory Blair, a celebrated cinematographer, as they traverse the intricate terrain of their intertwined professional and personal lives. Their electrifying chemistry fuels a narrative that captures the trials and tribulations of a high-stakes creative environment.

The characters are artfully crafted, with Cali emerging as a tenacious and relatable heroine. Her journey through a male-dominated landscape is both inspiring and refreshingly authentic. Jory, with his alluring yet multifaceted character, provides a perfect counterbalance to Cali’s ambition. However, some readers may feel that a deeper exploration of the characters' backstories and motivations would have added an extra layer of richness to this already engaging story.

Noel Stark weaves an enchanting tapestry with her prose, crafting a novel that glides effortlessly off the page. The dialogue sparkles with wit, and the playful exchanges between Cali and Jory infuse the story with delightful charm. Stark masterfully encapsulates the vibrant pulse of a film set, drawing readers into the captivating realm of television production.

The narrative dances around the intricate themes of ambition, love, and the quest for professional validation. It also bravely confronts pressing issues like workplace sexism and the personal sacrifices entwined with career pursuits. While Stark’s exploration of these themes is insightful, some readers may wish for a deeper dive into the challenges of navigating sexism in the industry.

The author weaves a rich tapestry of literary devices to elevate the tale. By shifting between the viewpoints of Cali and Jory, we gain a panoramic understanding of their intertwined lives and personal struggles. While the novel generally maintains a steady rhythm, certain passages tend to linger a bit too long, while others rush by in a blur.

The story unfolds in a clear-cut manner, making it a breeze to navigate. Though the pacing experiences its ups and downs, it never loses its grip on the reader. Ultimately, the narrative is captivating, ensuring that the audience remains deeply engaged in the unfolding saga of Cali and Jory’s connection.

Love, Camera, Action is a charming page-turner that beautifully intertwines the worlds of love and ambition in the fast-paced realm of television. While it may not plunge into certain themes as profoundly as some readers might desire, it still offers a delightful escape filled with behind-the-scenes magic. The sizzling chemistry between the lead characters and the insider glimpses into production make it an irresistible treat for aficionados of romantic comedies.

I wholeheartedly recommend Love, Camera, Action to those who revel in lighthearted romance with a sprinkle of professional intrigue. It’s the ideal choice for anyone seeking a playful and passionate story. However, if you crave a deeper dive into character development and thematic richness, you might find this tale skimming the surface a bit.

Empezó bien y luego todo se arruinó.

La forma en que se trató lo de Thalía con el idiota de Paolo me dio asco. Ese tipejo es un machito misógino que se la pasa insultando a Thalía, hace comentarios groseros y sexuales para ponerla incómoda, además hay escenas en las que la toca sin su consentimiento, es decir, la agrede. Sin embargo, Cali lo defiende, diciendo que era una buena persona que se sentía intimidado y que, por esa razón, actuaba de esa manera. ¿Cómo es posible que se defienda a un agresor y que al final hagan que todo ese comportamiento se justifique porque se gustaban?

Luego tenemos a los protagonistas, Cali y Jory, en donde él la trata mal porque tiene miedo de que le quite el trabajo, mientras ella se la pasa protegiéndolo y ocultando lo que él le hace.



Hay más cosas que no me gustaron, pero no vale la pena mencionarlos.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Cali and Jory! Oh such fun! This book was great! Yes it's romance, yes of course, it's predictable but that's what makes the story fun! You know how it's going to end maybe but the middle is the juicy part! Loved it!

"Love, Camera, Action" by Noel Stark is a delightful romance that offers a refreshing escape into the behind-the-scenes world of television production. As a middle-aged working mom, I found Cali Daniels' journey as an ambitious TV director both relatable and inspiring, especially as she navigates the challenges of a male-dominated industry. The chemistry between Cali and Jory Blair, the charismatic director of photography, is palpable, making their evolving relationship a joy to follow. Stark's engaging writing and well-developed characters make this novel a perfect blend of professional ambition and heartfelt romance.

oh i hate writing low rating reviews but this just didn't do it for me, the pace felt weird, the story felt flat and i didn't really fell or root for either of the mcs, i know there are people who'd love this, but i wasn't one of them.

Love, Camera, Action is a sizzling romance novel that perfectly captures the tension and excitement of a high-pressure film set. The story follows Cali Daniels, an ambitious TV director, and Jory Blair, a renowned cinematographer, as they navigate the complexities of their professional and personal relationship. The chemistry between Cali and Jory is undeniable, and their banter is witty and charming.

The author skillfully builds tension and anticipation, leading to some incredibly steamy scenes. The workplace setting adds an extra layer of intrigue, as the characters balance their professional obligations with their growing attraction. While the plot is engaging, the character development could have been deeper.

Both Cali and Jory are interesting characters, but their backstories and motivations are not fully explored. Additionally, the pacing of the story can feel uneven at times, with some sections dragging while others move too quickly.Overall, Love, Camera, Action is a fun and flirty read perfect for fans of romantic comedies. It’s a great choice for those looking for a lighthearted escape with plenty of heat.

I am absolutely in love with it! This book is a delightful journey into the world of romance and creativity, blending the magic of love stories with the art of filmmaking.

Noel Stark has a way of making you feel like you’re right there on set, experiencing the thrill of capturing those perfect moments. I was particularly enchanted by the behind-the-scenes insights into how love stories are crafted on screen. The tips on creating chemistry between characters are not just practical; they’re downright inspiring!

What really struck me was the emphasis on authenticity. Stark encourages readers to embrace their unique love stories and translate that into their creative projects. Whether you’re a budding filmmaker or just someone who loves a good romance, the ideas in this book are sure to spark your imagination.

The anecdotes sprinkled throughout are both heartwarming and hilarious, making it a joy to read. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the mishaps that can happen on set—proof that love and laughter go hand in hand!

4.5 Stars

This was such a cute film studio romance.

"You taste like Christmas." "Do you like Christmas?" "I do on you."

The dynamic between Jory and Cali at the beginning was laced with tension and good banter; that I was instantly hooked.
As someone who studied in the film industry, I felt this was a really good behind the scenes look at how a set is run, and what the dynamic can be like on set.
The slow burn had me yearning for them to get together, and I really loved their individual baggage they were carrying.
I felt that the cancer subplot was done really well, and I loved the overarching feminist movement within the story.

That extra half a star is for my main man Dan. Dan is the true MVP of the entire book, and I will not be taking any opposing opinions on this matter.

What a great “behind the scenes” Rom-com of Cali (a female up and coming director) and Jory (a male director of photography). Jory is hoping to advance his career while still trying to be respectful of women in a mostly “man’s club” industry. Cali is full of energy and creativity seeing things her own way. They butt heads on set mostly because Jory can’t decide if he is going to be welcoming or hard-headed. The banter is great, the spice is great. You really get a feel that the author is involved in filmmaking with the level of detail included. I really enjoyed the ride and Cali and Jory’s romance.

Thank you NetGalley and Alcove Press for an advanced digital copy of this book.

The setting of a film production was an interesting and fresh concept but overall, this book fell flat for me. I didn’t feel that I knew a lot about the characters and wish there had been more of the storyline outside of the workplace.

I loved the way the author built the characters in this one. They really felt alive to me, and like I understood them and where they were coming from. The romance was a slow build, which I didn't love, but on the flip side, if it was too fast, it wouldn't have been believable. I love how he stood up for her in the end to his detriment, but it all worked out, which is my favorite part of all! Thanks to the author and publisher for the ARC of this book!

I enjoyed this read. It was cute, it was fiery, and both characters were stubborn. Plus, the way they made gold/chemistry/creativity flow through their tumultuous feelings and eventual relationship was well-done and just as... blazing on the page as it would have been had this been real life.

The only downside I had was that the characters got together too quickly considering their reservations and the seriousness of what could happen if things go wrong. I mean; neither one had any clue if the other would report them for sexual harassment or anything and yet they both seemed to jump in rather quickly.

However, both characters were fleshed out quite well, and I enjoyed how they worked through their hangups over love.

thank you Netgalley for the arc

I had fun with Love, Camera, Action, it was a surprisingly deep and entertaining journey into the behind-the-scenes of a TV show, which is such a cool backdrop, and there’s loads of witty banter between Cali and Jory. Cali is a solid, relatable FMC, and while Jory starts off as a bit of a jerk, he does redeem himself… mostly. There’s good chemistry between them, and even though the conflict at the end felt kind of predictable, the Hollywood drama and fast pace kept me hooked. If you’re into spicy workplace romances with a hint of real-world grit, this is worth picking up for a cozy weekend!

In Noel Stark's debut novel, up-and-coming (but Canadian) director Cali Daniels is hired last minute to helm a double episode of The Demon, a "hotly anticipated" supernatural TV thriller. In an industry that has always been short on chances for people like her - women, outsiders - this is Cali's shot to make her mark, and prove she can stay true to herself while doing it. But on set, Cali finds herself at odds with the gifted (but jaded) Jory Blair, the show's director of photography, who's more concerned with getting the episodes in the can on schedule and under budget, than with Cali finding a fresh take on the material. To top it off, to both Jory and Cali's horror, the two are also undeniably Hot For Each Other. And in a post-Me Too world, undeniable could also mean career-ending.

With that setup, the book gives itself a long to-do list of jobs to get through in the course of telling Cali and Jory's story. Make it believable that a network TV show premiering in the mid-2020s could be hotly anticipated. Give a crash 101 on film and TV production, with a quick detour into the climate north of Buffalo, NY. Truthfully depict the gendered power imbalances that persist in the industry. Be sexy and entertaining while recognizing and negotiating those imbalances. Happily, Stark is up for the jobs. Any needed exposition never bogs down the pacing, the story makes space to acknowledge real-world injustices, Cali and Jory are dripping with appeal both sex and otherwise, and Jory's wrongheadedness about Canadian weather is corrected.

The book truly comes to life when centered on the instinctual reaction Cali and Jory have to each other - they're not opposites per se, more like elements from different corners of the periodic table, and combining them will either make fireworks or set off an IED. I'm a sucker for competence porn - seeing Cali start to win over Jory through the sheer power of being excellent at her job was a delight, but as they get further in sync, the passion for their work is palpable and contagious, both for the crew around them and for the reader. In these scenes, Stark uses an easy and naturalistic style that stays out of her characters' ways, lets them bump and smash into each other, and fireworks aren't far behind.

At a couple points in the early chapters, I thought the narrative POV seemed to wander within scenes - but I was mistaken: Cali and Jory are so good at visual storytelling that at times they seem to be seeing both the other's outward appearance and the emotion and thoughts underneath. These are smart, clever people, each with deep scars, each facing down those scars differently, but both ending up in essentially similar (though differently rationalized) attitudes of solitude. As they come together, observing each other, feeling their way around each other, this is when Stark gives some beautiful prose and some nice observations - "how painful it is to get dressed" sticks in my head, coming from Cali post-sex. Or Jory looking at old photos, and feeling the absence of someone he hadn't yet met. Romance sans le supernatural isn't usually my thing, but these characters drew me in and pulled me along. (And honestly, a ghost or two thrown in here wouldn't have been out of place, given how present each protagonist's past makes itself to the story.)

Beyond the interesting setting and captivating leads, Stark incorporates wide-ranging and hefty themes - some expected for the genre and some not - all of which are treated carefully and appropriately and given at least some room to breathe. But the distance travelled and the velocity with which the story moves between those themes can sometimes make the book's tone feel uneven. As well, the first quarter or so of the book suffers from what seems like overlapping voices, a similar style of affected banter that pops out of different characters' mouths - maybe it's the writing trying to find its footing, or maybe Cali and Jory both watched a lot of BTVS in their formative years. Either way, it adds to the unevenness, given Stark's ability in other passages to fade into the background and let her characters be themselves.

The workplace conflict gets wrapped up in a deus ex machina-esque bow - to close out the couple's on-set troubles any other way, there's just not enough runway left in the romantic plotline without drawing it out unnaturally. That's the story that will make readers pick up the book in the first place, anyway, and being built around such lush central characters, the romance and its multiple peaks and valleys won't disappoint.

This is a fun enemies-to-lovers story, I liked the banter between the characters as their relationship evolved. I would have liked to see more outside of the work setting, but overall it was a nice light story.