What was your life like before your author started pulling your strings? Uncomplicated. I’m the heir to Hollywood Royalty, so the doors open wide for me. Though I worked hard, my career was set―choice of scripts, top billing in every film. Nothing was missing.
What’s the one trait you like most about yourself?
I like people. I like being around people and I like helping people. Hollywood can be a great place to meet and be with people. My life is good. Why not share it with others? If I can give someone a boost in their career, that’s a good feeling. Being a Kingsley means I didn’t have to struggle through the ranks like most who come to Hollywood, so why not open the doors for someone who has the talent, but just needs a break?
What do you like least about yourself?
My reputation for helping others is far and wide and some people take advantage. I learned the hard way that not everyone sees past my pedigree. My first love was on that list. I had thought we’d marry start a family, but she had other ideas. That’s when I built that wall around my heart. Now relationships are strictly a business deal. Wish I remembered that when background actor Addison Duvall walked onto the set. I knew she was trouble and the walls went up. Funny how she knew what she wanted and how to get it. Even funnier, unlike other women, her plan didn’t include me.
What is the strangest thing your author has had you do or had happen to you?
I have to set my grandmother straight. During her Hollywood heyday, Mirabelle La Marr Kingsley was once America’s Sweetheart. That doesn’t mean she’s a guru when it comes to love. I’m careful and my life is exactly what I want it to be. When I’m on location in Mozambique and the set is rained out, who suddenly wants to video chat with me and let me know Addison’s latest social postings? I didn’t put 15,000 miles between Addison and me for nothing. But leave it to Gran to teach me technology can make me want the woman I successfully put out of my mind … and heart. If I hadn’t seen Addison, I’d be fine.
Do you argue with your author? If so, what do you argue about?
I had everything figured out until Addison appeared on the scene. She wasn’t like the other women. She came to Hollywood with her musical laugh, her bouncy enthusiasm and her forthrightness. She speaks her mind, no matter the consequences. I kind of like that … a lot.
What is your greatest fear?
When I realized I had it all―a great career, a beautiful woman on my arm when the cameras click, the mansion on the hill. Is that all there is? What about sharing what I have with someone else? And not just anyone. I know there are plenty of women out there who would gladly share my life, but if I share it with someone else, it has to be with someone special. Whenever I think that, I see Addison’s bright face, smell her subtle scent and hear her delightful laugh. What if I spend the rest of my life without Addison being a part of it? Can I be happy with just things? I may have to try.
What makes you happy?
Did I know true happiness before Addison walked onto the set? I had a great life. I was about to announce my engagement to supermodel Daisy. I was the envy of everyone in town, but what is that warmth rising in my chest whenever I’m near Addison? I knew being married to just anyone wouldn’t make me happy. That’s why I avoided marriage. When I’m with Addison, pure joy washes over me like waves on the beach.
If you could rewrite a part of your story, what would it be? Why?
That night Addison and I strolled along the beach. I knew what I felt for her, but I couldn’t deny the past. Another woman had made me happy, but when she had attained the fame she sought, she moved on. If I answered the yearning in my heart, and let Addison inside, what would be the risk? She wanted a career and I’ve known what women who want to be stars can do. If I hadn’t walked away that night, I’d open myself up to pain. I promised myself I’d never do that again.
Of the other characters in your book, which one bugs you the most? Why?
Gran thinks that everyone should be as happy as she was when Pop was alive. She doesn’t understand that was a different time, back when there was innocence in Hollywood and true love wasn’t just a happily ever after ending in one of her films. Times have changed. Try telling that to a Hollywood legend.
Of the other characters in your book, which one would you love to trade places with? Why?
Gran knew pure happiness. She and Pop adored each other. Even after fifty years together, they still flirted and laughed like a young couple in love. Their love endured all the heartache Hollywood dished out, but they devoted themselves to each other and their children. I’ve never seen a happier couple.
Tell us a little something about your author. Where can readers find her website/blog?
Laura Haley-McNeil has two books scheduled for later this year. The Billionaire’s Christmas Gift is Book 1 in the Christmas Billionaires Series. Then it’s back to the Crystal Creek Ranch with Book 8 and a chance to meet Josh and Lily and get a taste of the rodeo circuit. Catch up with Laura at her website.
What's next for you?
Addison’s blended family always has something going on. Her five sisters and six stepbrothers are setting off to make their mark in the world, but sometimes the best laid plans have a way of letting you know they aren’t that great. Try as the Duvalls and Lowes might, they can’t seem to avoid that crazy little thing called love. Keep an eye out for Book 4. Logan’s about to discover his getaway vacation takes him on a trip that was definitely not on his agenda.
Beaumont Brides, Book 3
A kiss isn’t just a kiss …
Struggling actress Addison Duvall hustles background acting jobs at the Hollywood studios in hopes for her big break. When she’s cast as the stand in for the lead actress in a blockbuster spy film, she can’t believe her luck. The surprises rush in―her first test shot is with Hollywood heartthrob Spencer Kingsley. Her even bigger surprise is when the director yells, “Action!” and Spencer presses his lips to hers in a kiss.
Behind Spencer’s Hollywood façade hides the secret pain no one suspects. He’s the first to take a risk except when it comes to his heart. He can’t deny he and Addison have chemistry―chemistry onscreen and off―and he’s tempted to lower his guard. She seems real, not like the women he usually meets.
Once Addison’s star rises, so do Spencer’s doubts. She’s no different than the others looking for the connection to catapult their careers. He won’t let another woman damage his heart. His decision made, Spencer wishes her success.
But it’s already too late. How does he heal this Addison shaped hole in his heart? Should he risk more heartbreak for another chance at love?
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