The Close-Up: A Hollywood Renaissance/HOOPS Novella

Set in the dynamic worlds of professional basketball and entertainment, two of Kennedy Ryan’s most critically-acclaimed series—HOOPs and Hollywood Renaissance—collide in this tale of forbidden romance.


I met Nazareth Armstrong when I was eighteen years old. From the beginning, my brother warned me to stay away from him. Told Naz to stay away from me.


Our hearts didn’t listen.


I shared one magical night under the stars with my brother's rival, thinking it was the start of a once-in-a-lifetime something.

But one awful moment ended it all.


Years later when we meet again, we’ve both pursued our dreams, lived a little, found success…but never found love. What began as a tiny flame when we were young now threatens to consume us. I’m more drawn to Naz than ever, but his complicated history with my brother makes whatever this could be…nearly impossible.


But Naz accepts impossible as a dare.


Through his clever maneuvering and dogged determination, I find myself on a yacht with him and his friends cruising through the Mediterranean. It’s a whirlwind set ablaze. Away from reality, surrendering to the tender heat of his touch, I forget that everything could burn.


*This is the love story of Takira, who first appears in Reel, book 1 of the Hollywood Renaissance series. Characters from the HOOPS series also make appearances, but you do not have to read any of those books to enjoy this one.


**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**


Reviews for The Close-Up:


“Kennedy Ryan’s gorgeous style coupled with her capacity to draw characters that steal hearts makes her a must-read.” ~ Amy, Professor Romance


“Full of desire, joy, heat, romance and passion. Descriptives that are tantalizing. Captivating. Intoxicating. Every romance reader needs this in their lives!” ~ Anita Hot Romance Stories


“So good, full of passion and emotion. The author's unique style of narration makes you feel and live the scenes with the characters, definitely a must read for all fans of this author. super recommended.” ~ Vanessa, When Vane Reads


“For a taste of the Hoops world and a second chance romance with a side of forbidden, dive into The Close Up. You will LOVE each and every character, but you will definitely fall in love with Naz and Takira's journey to their HEA.” ~ ReadingTilTheBreakOfDawn


“Fun, humor, sexiness, friendship, family and loyalty, It's a second chance romance with everything I love.” ~ Kara, Two Book Pushers