Sambrano Studios is a series about a Latino family running a film studio. Casting director Perla Sambrano knows the ideal man for an upcoming role would be Gael Montez. JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS explains that formerly they were college sweethearts, but they haven’t been close since moving in different directions six years ago.

Gael has been prospering, acting in superhero films in which, it’s embarrassing to say, he’s the ethnic secondary character. But it’s a good role model for kids. And he’s able to take care of his family. Perla wants him in a much more serious part, as a Puerto Rican legend. There are so many reasons why Gael should take on the project – heritage, a serious dramatic role, and diversifying his CV. Possible movie awards. He’s not filming right now, so she decides to visit him and offer the screenplay. Near Christmas, at his family home, a Hamptons mansion.

One feature of stories that annoys me greatly is when someone has an interesting job, and as soon as the book starts, they promptly stop doing the job. For all I can see, the pair might as well be advertisers, architects or aircraft designers. Perla’s old college roommate was Gabi, Gael’s sister, and she’s kept in touch. As did Veronica, Gael’s mother. Since Veronica hasn’t been well, and she swiftly assumes Gael and Perla are finally back together, she invites Perla to stay for Nochebuena, as they call Christmas. And yes, that’s it. Fake dating and rampant attraction follow. They may talk occasionally about making movies, but they don’t do it. 

An interesting character is Gael’s career manager, his uncle Manolo, who decides what the actor should do and what would be good for his profile. While the man had valid concerns for his family, I’m sure most readers will consider it’s well past time that Gael grew up and made his career decisions.

Adriana Herrera has written a lively contemporary romance about getting storm-bound ahead of Christmas in a comfortable mansion with lots of good food and kind family members. JUST FOR THE HOLIDAYS is entertaining and gives an insight into Puerto Rican culture.