Review: Love Scenes by Bridget Morrissey
As an actor, I love reading books about “behind the scenes” of theatre and film. It’s fun to see if the author can get it right and also gives me a sense of belonging. When I read the synopsis for Bridget Morrissey’s Love Scenes, I know I had to read it.
Synopsis:
“Out-of-work actress Sloane Ford is in desperate need of something to do after losing her steady TV gig. When her famous family ropes her into working as a producer on their World War II-era romance, they neglect to mention that the film will be headlined by Joseph Donovan, her least favorite former co-star of all time. The roguish actor made her life a living hell the last time they worked together, using his movie star good looks and Irish charm to cover for his erratic professional behavior. On their new film set, he promises he's different now, but Sloane is far from convinced.
As filming gets underway, it becomes clear that anything that can go wrong will go wrong. When the lead actress is abruptly fired, Sloane agrees to step in and take over the role, and she starts to remember why she fell in love with acting in the first place. On camera, she and Joseph share an electric chemistry. Off camera, they've been honing their characters and, much to Sloane's surprise, growing closer. But playing the role of a woman in love with Joseph Donovan is a dangerous business, and the more time they spend together, the less Sloane can tell what's real between them, and what's just for show.” —Bookshop.org
What I Liked:
The Idea—As an actor, I always love stories about behind the scenes of set life. They’re relatable and fun and are the part of the process I enjoy most. This book made me long for the community of show business. I missed being part of a cast and working on my craft.
The Intimacy Coordinator—Love, love, LOVE seeing these included in stories about theatre and film. An intimacy coordinator is someone who is hired on a set to make sure the actors feel safe and supported during intimate scenes. They keep the crew professional and respectful and are there to advocate for actors in an extremely vulnerable situation.
The Writing—I liked the author’s writing a lot! It was easy and breezing but still kept me engaged.
What Didn’t Work:
The Pacing—I don’t know how to describe what was missing from this story but maybe it just didn’t have the build up and pacing I enjoy.
TW/CW:
Alcoholism
Character Authenticity: 3.5/5 Steam Rating: 0.5/5 Overall Rating: 3.9/5