The location shoot, p.1
The Location Shoot, page 1
PRAISE FOR THE LOCATION SHOOT
“Each character is more charming than the next . . . the intellectual discussions throughout the book prove fresh and engaging and will keep the pages turning. A quick-witted depiction of moviemaking best suited for contemplative romantics.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“The Location Shoot, penned by Patricia Leavy, is an enlightening exploration of art, philosophy, and life’s profound queries. . . . The narrative’s charm isn’t solely defined by the romantic entanglement of a central couple but also by its well-sketched ensemble cast . . . the story reaches a fulfilling conclusion, brimming with a sense of humanity and personal transformation.”
—Literary Titan, 5-star review
“A tour de force! Much more than a romance, this novel celebrates the romance of life itself. Set on an exotic film location with a fabulous cast of characters that comes to life on the page, this book grabs hold of your heart and mind. The Location Shoot poses big questions about the meaning of life and love, and the answers are profoundly satisfying. Leavy’s voice in fiction is singular. She brings her laser-like wit, intelligence, and hopefulness to this enchanting and truly unforgettable love story.”
—Laurel Richardson, author of Lone Twin
“The Location Shoot is a stunning exploration of love, hope, dreams, and art bundled together in sheets of romance and laughter overheard from characters you just want to spend more and more time with. A truly joyous read!”
—J. E. Sumerau, author of Scarecrow
“The Location Shoot by Patricia Leavy is a fun and light summer escape for romance fans. A perfect book to take to the pool.”
—Sarahlyn Bruck, author of Light of the Fire
“The Location Shoot is a masterpiece. Leavy’s astonishing talent for exploring the human condition through light and escapist reading is on full display in this gorgeously written novel. Sexy celebrity romance meets rom-com meets literary fiction. This profoundly engaging book gave me all the feelings, from laughter to happy tears. I fell completely in love with the characters through Leavy’s masterful dialogue. This book was so captivating that I read it in one sitting, unable to put it down. The ending is pure perfection.”
—U. Melissa Anyiwo, editor of Gender Warriors
“An intelligent, thought-provoking romance set in a gorgeous location in the endlessly riveting world of filmmaking. The Location Shoot is absolutely spellbinding. The atmospheric details are exquisite, the characters finely drawn, and the story captivating. This book is a celebration of love, friendship, and the magic of art. Completely immersive; I could not put it down! The ending is unforgettable and deeply satisfying. A must-read!”
—Jessica Smartt Gullion, author of October Birds
“Wow! Leavy has written a gorgeous novel about the meaning of life and how art is woven into the fabric of human existence. The characters show us that the biggest question is best answered through art and love. Life, like art, is about improvisation, taking chances, and pushing through our fear. I devoured this book.”
—Sandra L. Faulkner, author of Poetic Inquiry: Craft, Method and Practice
“Leavy’s latest novel is less about the film world as a place of make believe and more about the real questions of life. Get the book, get on location, enjoy!”
—Mary E. Weems, Cleveland Arts Prize winner and author of Blackeyed
“Quaint romance gives way to a deeper allegory about human development. Leavy illustrates how a lifetime of intense publicity and relentless exposure can trap people in an eternal childhood of the heart, from which they must break free. I expect—and hope—to see Finn Forrester and Ella Sinclair in the news again.”
—Alexandra “Xan” Nowakowski, coauthor of Other People’s Oysters
“Life imitates art in this wildly romantic novel. Leavy’s unique talent for weaving a thoughtful meditation on the arts into a sexy beach read is on full display in this triumphant page-turner of a book that follows the personal lives of a group making a film about the meaning of life. You will fall in love with the characters, but more than anything, The Location Shoot makes you fall in love with life itself. A profoundly beautiful and inspiring read. I didn’t want it to end. Highly recommend!”
—Jessie Voigts, PhD, founder of Wandering Educators
PRAISE FOR PATRICIA LEAVY’S HOLLYLAND
“This quick read will leave readers satisfied with the happy ending. The main characters will make readers believe in love. Fans of Colleen Hoover and Tessa Bailey will enjoy Hollyland.”
—Booklist
“Some fun secondary characters, a well-drawn setting, and an exciting eleventh-hour kidnapping plot propel Leavy’s story. The author also offers rich details about Rye’s Hollywood world and Dee’s opinions on art . . .”
—Kirkus Reviews
“ . . . Leavy weaves a lot of excitement, charm, and romance into this concise and highly engrossing novel . . . the action really ramps up in the latter section of the book to offer a superb climax filled with suspense. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Hollyland to fans of romance and women’s fiction everywhere; you will not be disappointed.”
—Readers’ Favorite, 5-star review
“Written with the kind of eloquence associated with award winning literary fiction . . . An impressively poignant, laudably original, and thoroughly entertaining novel that moves fluidly between romance, humor, suspense, and joy, Hollyland is one of those stories that will linger in the mind and memory long after the book itself has been finished and set back upon the shelf . . . highly recommended.”
—Midwest Book Review
Copyright © 2023, Patricia Leavy
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, digital scanning, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, please address She Writes Press.
Published 2023
Printed in the United States of America
Print ISBN: 978-1-64742-567-8
E-ISBN: 978-1-64742-568-5
Library of Congress Control Number: 2023907852
For information, address:
She Writes Press
1569 Solano Ave #546
Berkeley, CA 94707
Interior Design by Tabitha Lahr
She Writes Press is a division of SparkPoint Studio, LLC.
All company and/or product names may be trade names, logos, trademarks, and/or registered trademarks and are the property of their respective owners.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
For Mark Robins
PROLOGUE
June 30
Entertainment News Report
On the heels of his costly third divorce, controversial French filmmaker Jean Mercier has announced the cast for his highly anticipated new English-language film. Shooting starts tomorrow at a secret location in Sweden. Mercier, 58, famously films in remote locations, living in seclusion with his lead actors in rented homes and inns. The award winner is known for his unconventional, avant-garde approach to filmmaking, and for curating unexpected casts. He’s certainly done it again.
Leading the cast is acclaimed British actor of stage and screen Albie Hughes, 73, who is teaming up once again with the tempestuous director, perhaps hoping to score another Oscar for his collection. British actress Charlotte Reed, 40, is also set to star in the film. Reed is best known for her dramatic work, often appearing on stage at London’s West End theaters, although she has recently become a staple in the independent film scene.
Hollywood film star Finn Forrester, 42, who began his career as a teen heartthrob before growing into a formidable presence on the silver screen, has appeared in over one hundred feature films. The Mercier project is a departure for the legendary actor, who in recent years has been cashing in as the star of blockbuster action-adventure movies. American actor Michael Hennesey, 38, best known for his Emmy-winning role on Desperation and Despair, is also set to star in the unnamed film. Perhaps most surprising, American actress Willow Barnes, 28, rounds out the cast. Barnes began her career as a tween star, which she parlayed into a short-lived turn as a pop singer and scream queen. After a series of highly publicized, drunken escapades, several failed celebrity relationships, four DUI charges, and two stints in rehab, Barnes has not performed in over three years, although she remains one of the most followed celebrities on social media.
Mercier remains tight-lipped on the details of the film and his surprising casting choices. One thing is for sure: if it’s anything like his other pictures, it’s going to be a daring work of cinema that pushes the performers and audiences past their comfort zones. The film is scheduled to shoot for three months.
CHAPTER 1
“You should hear what she wrote about ménage à trois! Her section on the logistics of how it all works blew my mind. I thought that we French were the ones open about matters of the flesh, but we have nothing on our dear American friend, Ms. Ella Sinclair,” Luc said.
Everyone broke out into hearty laughter, causing other patrons in the bistro to glance over at the rambunctious group.
Simone traipsed
Ella smiled. “We go way back. He certainly has quite a big personality.”
“So, we shouldn’t believe all the stories about what a lecher he is?” Luc asked.
“Well, I wouldn’t go that far, but he’s a dear friend and a brilliant artist,” Ella replied.
“Fill me in on what was so funny,” Simone said.
“We were talking about Ella’s latest manuscript. I’m telling you, I was glad to be home alone reading it. How can I say this? It was quite, uh . . . sensual,” Luc replied.
Ella playfully rolled her eyes. “It’s a philosophical treatise on sex, not erotica.”
“It’s a multifunctional text,” Luc said. “The best ones always are.”
Ella giggled.
The waiter delivered their drinks and scrumptious food.
“Ah, saved by alcohol,” Ella said.
Everyone raised their glasses. “À votre santé!”
“Mmm, this place has the most sublime Bellinis,” Ella remarked, taking a sip.
“They use white peaches this time of year,” Luc explained.
“Figures. Everything is better in Paris, even brunch,” Ella said, pulling her long, light brown spirals into a loose bun at the nape of her neck.
“I can’t disagree with that,” Clara said, biting into her buttery brioche. “So, what does our American girl in Paris have planned for the summer? I was thinking we could all take a trip to the south. We need a holiday. Let’s sunbathe on La Côte d’Azur and gorge ourselves on fresh seafood.”
“I’m free after my gallery opening,” Simone said.
“Ooh, I’m in,” another added.
“Me too,” someone else chimed in.
“Ella?” Luc asked.
“Sounds divine, but I’m not sure. Jean’s film is shooting somewhere in the Swedish countryside over the next three months. He’s invited me to tag along. Knowing him, he’ll pester me until I agree. I haven’t committed to anything yet, but I’ll probably go at some point. The change of scenery might do my writing some good.”
“Who says no to being on the set of a Jean Mercier film, in picturesque Sweden, no less?” Simone said.
Ella smiled. “Visiting his location shoots is always a treat. One never knows what will happen. Plus, it’s a chance for some quiet time. I could use a break from the city.” She took a bite of her oeufs en cocotte and said, “But I would miss this, the company and the heavenly food.”
“Go to Sweden, darling. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Simone said. “But wait until after my show. I don’t want you to miss it.”
“Of course, if you want to meet a beautiful man and have a steamy affair, come to the Riviera with us. This is what the French do best, after all, especially in the summertime. You’re too gorgeous and fabulous to be alone. Romance beckons. You can always call it research and development for your next book,” Luc said.
Ella giggled. “The last thing I’m looking for is a man.”
“Then watch out,” Luc cautioned. “That’s one thing we French seem to understand better than you Americans: lightning always strikes when we least expect it.”
“ALBIE, DARLING, WOULD YOU LIKE more tea?” Margaret asked, placing the hand-painted porcelain pot on the coffee table.
He shook his head and reached out for her hand. “Sit down with me, my love.”
She sat beside him on the couch, and he draped his arm around her. “Let’s just be still together until I have to go,” he said.
“When is the car service picking you up?” she asked, nuzzling closer to him.
“About an hour. They’re getting Charlotte first. I thought it would be nice for us to travel together since she’s so nearby. It will give us a chance to catch up.”
“When was the last time you worked together?” Margaret asked.
“About four years ago, when we did that show at the National Theatre.”
“Ah, how could I forget? Your performance was so lovely.”
He kissed the side of her head. “I know you’d prefer if I stayed with you this summer.”
“I’ll just be wandering around this old townhouse like a loose marble in an empty drawer.”
“Margaret . . .”
“Don’t worry. London will keep me busy, always does. I’ll work on the garden, volunteer at the library, see my friends. It’s just that you fill this space so perfectly. It’s a bit lonely without you, that’s all.”
“It’s difficult to be away from you too. I hope you know that.”
“There’s no need for us to be maudlin,” she interrupted. “You must work. After all these years, I understand that. It’s just . . . I worry about you, darling. You never say a word about it, but I know you haven’t been feeling well. What if . . .”
He squeezed her. “My sweet Margaret, please don’t worry. I’m stronger than you think. Like an ox. This will be good for me.”
“Promise me you’ll take care of yourself.”
“I will.”
“When you come home . . .”
“We’ll spend every moment together. I’m sure I’ll drive you batshit mad. You won’t be able to get rid of me,” he said.
She smiled and rested her head on his shoulder.
He sighed. “But oh, how I will miss you, my love.”
“CAN’T WE AT LEAST DISCUSS IT?” Charlotte asked.
“The car is picking you up soon. This really isn’t the time. Besides, I must get down to the theater. Yesterday’s auditions were an absolute disaster. Bloody hell, it’s like they’ve never heard of Shakespeare. It’s so much easier when I can just cast you. You are the most brilliant actress.”
She feigned a smile.
“I really ought to go,” he said.
“I was hoping you would mull it over while I’m away. It would be the perfect timing. I’ve warned my agent that I may take some time off after this job.”
“Love, you’re about to star in a Jean Mercier film. It hardly makes sense now of all times. Isn’t this the kind of film you’ve always hoped to do?”
“Well yes, but . . .”
“This role will open a lot of doors. Having a child now will only derail your brilliant career.”
“I can still work. Lots of women do it. I’ve been acting nonstop for more than twenty years. A break wouldn’t be the worst thing. It’s exhausting, you know, spending your life portraying other people. Like I said last night, we could try when I return. Should things go well . . .”
“Charlotte, you’re forty years old. Doubtful it would be as easy as you think. Aren’t we a little past our prime to be starting with all of this?”
“Many women get pregnant in their early forties. Adoption is also a possibility if we have trouble. I downloaded some information,” she said, grabbing a pile of papers off the coffee table.
He kissed her forehead and said, “I’ve got to go, love. Leave the papers and I’ll look them over, but honestly, I suspect you’ll feel differently when you return. You’re an artist, Charlotte. You always return to the thing you’re most devoted to: acting. A few days of filming and you’ll forget all about this.”
“Maybe, but . . .”
“Text me when you get there so I know you’ve arrived safely. Have a wonderful shoot. Get immersed, lose yourself,” he said as he dashed out the door, leaving her clutching the unread papers. She took a steadying breath and looked around the large, open-concept flat they had shared for years, the walls covered with art gathered during her travels, reminders of the life she had chosen.
“YOU’VE GOT A PHENOMENAL ASS. Turn around, baby. I want to do you from behind,” Michael instructed, grabbing her hips and swiveling her around. “That’s it, baby, that’s it,” he said, moving faster and faster until he groaned in ecstasy. He pulled back, patted her bottom, and said, “That was great.”
