February Read: “Not in the Script” by Amy Finnegan

February Read #1

Romance is in the air during this time of the year.So I thought I would start a mini series of book reviews that features love, in all forms it comes in. It can be a relationship between two people or learning to love one’s self. No matter what type of love it is, I hope to help celebrate it through this book review series. First up, is a book that is I have been raving about- Not in the Script by Amy Finnegan.

Millions of people witnessed Emma Taylor’s first kiss-a kiss that needed twelve takes and four camera angles to get right. After spending years performing on cue, Emma can’t help but wonder if any part of her life is real anymore . . . particularly her romances. She’s been burned by heartthrobs (and the press) one too many times, but there’s something about Emma’s co-star on her new TV show Coyote Hills that is irresistible. Jake Elliott is gorgeous, smart and actually cares about Emma’s charitable foundation. But she’s sworn off on-set relationships. They always end badly . . . don’t they? This third novel in the deliciously fun If Only romance line proves that the best kinds of love stories don’t follow a script.

Warning: This book review contains spoilers.

Not in the Script was one filled with drama, love, and mature characters. I found myself reading it until late at night and  picking up where I left off in the early morning. So believe me when I say that I could not put it down.

Not in the Script revolves around four characters, who are starring in the hottest anticipated show, ‘Coyote Hills’. Emma, Jake, Brett, and Kimmi all come from different backgrounds and it’s interesting to note as the story progresses. You have Emma, who is a down to earth and is great at what she does. Jake who comes from a modeling background, but has a love for business. Brett who is a bit full of himself, but deep down cares about his family and friends. Finally, Kimmi who proves to be a bit of a handful on set. Though the story revolves around these four characters, the book highlights Emma and Jake, who are both the narrators of the story.

I loved how the story was told in the perspective of Emma and Jake because you got to see how a situation was viewed differently. You have the girl’s perspective versus the guy’s perspective. It played out really well. But I am a sucker for books that intertwine their characters’ different perspectives and this book did is so nicely! From the hints of drama, love, and entertainment, Not in the Script has it all.

Emma is trying to focus on anything but boys. But Jake comes into the picture and changes it all. From the subtle hints and flirting back and forth, we get to go into the minds of these key characters. The transitions between their point of views were smooth and done quite well. I became attached to Emma and Jake. Emma is a smart young lady, who has her act together (or at least tries to make it seem so) in the Hollywood scene. Whereas Jake came from a different background. He wanted to go into business, but pursued modeling then acting because he needed the money to take care of his mother.

Speaking about Jake, this is probably the best time, if any, to say how big of a fictional crush I had on him. For ones who already read the book, you probably feel the same one. He takes such good care of his mom, he has career goals and a bright future ahead, he is very rational; seriously, this list can go on. Sigh. If only he was real. Overall, I thought the way his character was constructed was lovely, especially since his personality mixed really well with Emma’s.

Their relationship was beautiful. I was rooting for them ever since they met in the story. Their relationship holds a sort of maturity that was refreshing; one that made me forget about how young they were. I got to see how much their relationship grew as Emma learned about Jake’s family situation, while she learned how to let go of the ghosts from her past. They grew as characters, both separately and together. It has been awhile where I found a book that I would re-read,  but I definitely plan on doing so with this one!

One minor thing that I will mention is that while I was reading, I got lost when the story would fast forward  in time. I found it a little confusing; however it did not hinder the overall performance of the story.

In addition, one of the unique things about Not in the Script was how I got to learn a bit of the technical side of show business. From learning the lingo to getting a behind the scenes feels of how it is when filming a television show, I loved every second of it. If you enjoy learning about all things in entertainment as much as I do, you will find these little aspects of the story delightful.

Overall, the story was brilliantly done. It was quite the page turner and pulled at my heart strings. It is clear from the beginning that Emma is done with boys and only wants to focus on her career and her education, but when Jakes comes into the picture that all change. From heart throbs, to celebrity gossiped obsessed best friends to young love, this book is a perfect start to your February reading list.

Rating: 10 out of 10

Publisher: Bloomsbury USA

Source: Netgalley

ISBN #: 9781619633971

Length: 392 pages