Let’s Make a Scene by Laura Wood
Okay, let me start by admitting something: I’m not usually a romance reader. I’m more of a fantasy, morally-gray-love-interest, bring-on-the-magic type of girl. But this summer I was in the mood to have a little fun — maybe more than just a little. Enter Let’s Make a Scene by Laura Wood — and let me tell you, it delivered exactly what I didn’t know I needed.
This book is the perfect mix of tension, sass and softness with a solid dose of I hate you but maybe I don’t? energy. Our leads, Cynthie Taylor and Jack Jones, are chaotic opposites who somehow end up on the same path — literally.
Cynthie, who has never acted in her life, suddenly finds herself starring in a major film opposite Jack, who’s the picture-perfect handsome actor with the classic ego to match. They do not get along. Like, underline, bold, italics — they don’t like each other.
Sass, Snark and a Second Chance
Cynthie is exactly the kind of FMC I root for. She’s quick-witted, sharp-tongued and not here to take anyone’s nonsense, especially Jack’s. At one point, she tells him:
“It doesn’t look like you need an audience — you’re clearly more than capable of admiring yourself. What a surprise to find you working out in front of a mirror. Like a parakeet with its favorite toy. A tiny-brained narcissist.”
I giggled way too much. That line stuck with me — it was sharp, hilarious and perfectly captured Cynthie’s bold personality.
Then we have Jack. And to be fair — he’s not the worst. He’s dealing with pressure, expectations and a whole mess of emotional baggage, especially from his overbearing parents. So yes, his behavior toward Cynthie in the beginning is annoying, but you can see why he acts the way he does. That doesn’t excuse it, but it makes the later growth so much more satisfying.
Fast forward 13 years (yes, 13), and they’re back on set together for a sequel, and surprise — Jack’s actually grown up and become … kind? Supportive?? Attractive in a non-annoying way???
Friendship Goals and a Romance Worth the Wait
I had so much fun watching their relationship unfold, especially the slow-burn shift from mutual enemies to something softer. The tension was chef’s kiss — and when it finally broke, it was 100% worth the wait.
What really stood out was the found family vibe. Cynthie’s backstory — her absent father, her mother who passed away — gave her more depth, and the people who became her “family” on set made my heart melt. And don’t even get me started on her friendship with Hannah. The way they supported each other? To die for. We need more female friendships like that in romance books.
So, if you’re in the mood for a sweet, witty, Hollywood-style romcom with a little emotional depth, Let’s Make a Scene should absolutely be on your summer TBR. I laughed, I blushed, I may have rolled my eyes once or twice — but I had a blast. And sometimes, that’s exactly what a summer read should be.
About Laura Wood:
Laura Wood is a bestselling and acclaimed author of children’s and young adult novels. She is also the author of the adult novels Under Your Spell and Let’s Make a Scene. With a PhD in 19th-century literature, Laura lives in Warwickshire, England, with her husband, and their dog, Bea. Visit LauraClareWood.com and follow her on Instagram @LauraCWood and on X @LauraClareWood.
