Book Review - Let's Make A Scene by Laura Wood

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Title: Let's Make A Scene

Author: Laura Wood

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Publication Date: 3rd July 2025

Rating: 4 Stars

Their story might be scripted, but the chemistry is real.

When Cynthie Taylor gets her first real acting job, starring in a small British movie, she is over the moon. There’s only one problem . . . Cynthie's arrogant and annoyingly handsome co-star Jack hates her, and the feeling is definitely mutual. While they may be at war behind the scenes, their on-screen chemistry is palpable, and the studio sees an opportunity – have the two young stars fake a romance that will charm fans and draw crowds.

Thirteen years later, Cynthie and Jack have successfully kept their promise to stay far away from one another, until a surprising offer comes to make a sequel to the cult classic that launched their careers. But there's a catch: they must also rekindle their pretend relationship . . . and this time there's a documentary crew following their every move.

Cynthie and Jack both desperately need this film to work, but can two ex-rivals ever really trust each other? And what happens when the roles they're playing start to feel all too real?

What an enjoyable book.

I absolutely love stories that include movie stars, and this had everything.  Fake dating, real friendship, enemies to lovers, second chances, a reunion after 13 years, some talented acting, hilarious prank wars, a horrific ex for Cynthie which shows the worse side of the film making business, and a whole lot more besides. 

The story jumps regularly between the present day storyline of Cynthie trying to get herself back together after a public scandal, and the opportunity to make a sequel to her first ever film all these years later.  It's just that her nemesis Jack is also on board, and the deal involves a behind the scenes access all areas documentary being filmed, all while they have to fake date like back in the day, to ensure this is the biggest thing ever. 

And the storyline of 13 years previous, where they make the first film and we establish just what happened between the pair of them, which has led to the barely wanting to be in the same room together. 

But equally there is a lot of sexual chemistry and you are never quite sure which direction this story would take. 

This was the first book I've read by Laura Wood and it certainly won't be the last, and I'm eager to see what she writes next. 

Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.