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The One Who Got Away
The One Who Got Away is a standalone novel in the sweet & spicy open door interconnected Songs of Saint Croix series. This story is an age gap romance that will take readers on a journey filled with humor and banter, heartbreak and healing, found family, fantastic side characters, forced proximity... and mashed potatoes. This novel is written in third person and intended for mature audiences. See author website for content warnings.
Hannah Beckett is lost because she didn’t follow her dreams… Rory Dunnan is lost because he did.
Hannah Beckett’s life is at a standstill when opportunity comes knocking in the shape of a handsome country music star in need of a songwriter—who happens to be connected to her past. Hannah has always played it safe after losing her mother at a young age to breast cancer—her mother, who helped launch this man’s career.
Fourteen years her senior, Rory Dunnan, has sacrificed himself for his success, carrying the weight of his fame on his shoulders and the responsibility of managing his country music brand—and all the people tied to it—while his overbearing manager desperately holds on to control over his life.
When Rory finally puts his desires before his responsibilities, their world comes crashing down... will they recognize what fate has delivered them in each other before it’s too late?
Hannah Beckett is lost because she didn’t follow her dreams… Rory Dunnan is lost because he did.
Hannah Beckett’s life is at a standstill when opportunity comes knocking in the shape of a handsome country music star in need of a songwriter—who happens to be connected to her past. Hannah has always played it safe after losing her mother at a young age to breast cancer—her mother, who helped launch this man’s career.
Fourteen years her senior, Rory Dunnan, has sacrificed himself for his success, carrying the weight of his fame on his shoulders and the responsibility of managing his country music brand—and all the people tied to it—while his overbearing manager desperately holds on to control over his life.
When Rory finally puts his desires before his responsibilities, their world comes crashing down... will they recognize what fate has delivered them in each other before it’s too late?
- GenresRomanceContemporary
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2024
19 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
K. L. Shannon
3 books11 followersK. L. Shannon loves all genres of romance and secretly scribbled her own stories for years. After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, she decided to seize the day and share all her imagination brings to her at night. Shannon currently resides in Phoenix, Arizona, with her family and a colony of naughty rescue cats.
Social media & more: https://linktr.ee/klshannon
Social media & more: https://linktr.ee/klshannon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
September 6, 2024
So I went into this with an open mind and something that would be a short pallet cleanser. The story it self was really sweet. Though at times I did question the actions of the FMC but each to their own.
The story I found was wrapped up pretty well and was told in a good amount of time. a few unanswered questions but I felt pretty satisfied. At times I felt that there was a lot of fillers just to drag the story on but i pushed though and this is one of the main reasons I dropped a star. I found there was a few unnecessary things that went on. Like I said overall I did enjoy the story as everyone loves a good Age gap romance. I just wish there was a little but more to it. The spice was of good amount not a whole lot and sometime it felt like there was a bit of an odd mix of spice and no depth to it. But I am really glad they did get their HEA <3
The story I found was wrapped up pretty well and was told in a good amount of time. a few unanswered questions but I felt pretty satisfied. At times I felt that there was a lot of fillers just to drag the story on but i pushed though and this is one of the main reasons I dropped a star. I found there was a few unnecessary things that went on. Like I said overall I did enjoy the story as everyone loves a good Age gap romance. I just wish there was a little but more to it. The spice was of good amount not a whole lot and sometime it felt like there was a bit of an odd mix of spice and no depth to it. But I am really glad they did get their HEA <3
August 30, 2024
This book grabbed me & sucked me in! Absolutely loved every bit of this book! Hot, steamy, and sweet! Loved the characters, age gap, and found family!
September 1, 2024
First of all, this is a debut novel?! Are you kidding me!? Color me shocked because this is truly an incredible story, with exceptional writing quality, pacing, depth, character development, and literally everything else I could possibly want from a story like this.
Why you’ll love it:
🤍 Age gap
🤍 Singer + songwriter romance
🤍 Amazing friendship to lovers
🤍 Funny and flirty and banter galore
🤍 Found family
🤍 A hard fought HEA
Why I loved it (4.5⭐️)…
This story was so much more involved, heartbreaking, emotional, and sweet than I could have ever anticipated. Based on previous reviews, I honestly was thinking this would be sort of a palate cleanser, easy read. In my view at least, it was nothing of the sort. In the best way.
I think you should know that as a debut, this book truly knocked me on my ass. K.L. wove a story here that had me unable to put this book down. I literally finished it in an afternoon while avoiding social responsibilities and my fiancé. He’ll live.
And the reason I couldn’t put it down was because our main characters, Hannah and Rory, were so wildly compelling, so vulnerable, and so absolutely swoony that it was urgent in my mind that I read the entirety of their story immediately! Like, I got full body chills multiple times, not only from the spicy moments in this book (which, A+++, ma’am!), but more so from the longing, emotion, and very apparent love story between these two. It was truly beautiful, even in the moments when it was ripping my heart out my chest.
I cannot recommend this new release enough and hope you’ll take my words to heart and pick this one up asap!
Thank you so so much to the author and Luna Literary Management for including me in this arc! I cannot wait to see what comes next!
Why you’ll love it:
🤍 Age gap
🤍 Singer + songwriter romance
🤍 Amazing friendship to lovers
🤍 Funny and flirty and banter galore
🤍 Found family
🤍 A hard fought HEA
Why I loved it (4.5⭐️)…
This story was so much more involved, heartbreaking, emotional, and sweet than I could have ever anticipated. Based on previous reviews, I honestly was thinking this would be sort of a palate cleanser, easy read. In my view at least, it was nothing of the sort. In the best way.
I think you should know that as a debut, this book truly knocked me on my ass. K.L. wove a story here that had me unable to put this book down. I literally finished it in an afternoon while avoiding social responsibilities and my fiancé. He’ll live.
And the reason I couldn’t put it down was because our main characters, Hannah and Rory, were so wildly compelling, so vulnerable, and so absolutely swoony that it was urgent in my mind that I read the entirety of their story immediately! Like, I got full body chills multiple times, not only from the spicy moments in this book (which, A+++, ma’am!), but more so from the longing, emotion, and very apparent love story between these two. It was truly beautiful, even in the moments when it was ripping my heart out my chest.
I cannot recommend this new release enough and hope you’ll take my words to heart and pick this one up asap!
Thank you so so much to the author and Luna Literary Management for including me in this arc! I cannot wait to see what comes next!
September 3, 2024
This debut novel by K.L. Shannon was a delight to read. It’s an age gap romance with a musician and a songwriter. I loved the character of Hannah. She was such a strong-willed woman who went after her dreams and wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Rory, the male main character, grows on you. He has some issues he has to overcome throughout the book. Shannon really develops her characters beautifully. She also makes you want to visit St. Croix with her imagery and descriptions of the island.
The concept of a musician and a songwriter was what really drew me to this novel. I was not disappointed. It is a true focus of the story. The characters have to work together to write songs, but when feelings get involved, what could go wrong?
Truly 4.5 🌟
The concept of a musician and a songwriter was what really drew me to this novel. I was not disappointed. It is a true focus of the story. The characters have to work together to write songs, but when feelings get involved, what could go wrong?
Truly 4.5 🌟
September 3, 2024
I could not put this book down! It hit all the right notes—music, cowboys, a tropical island, found family, and spicy romance. The chemistry between Rory and Hannah is palpable from the start, with Mama M, Sophie, and Chance adding those delightful Mamma Mia vibes. Chance, “string bean, flirting machine” brought humour and a few challenges into the mix.
I did find the multi-perspective narrative a bit tricky, as I’m used to books that switch between characters chapter by chapter. That said, I would love to hear Sadie’s story next—maybe a New York romance? Her speech to Hannah in Chapter 25 about her dad being miles away physically but always present was deeply touching.
I did find the multi-perspective narrative a bit tricky, as I’m used to books that switch between characters chapter by chapter. That said, I would love to hear Sadie’s story next—maybe a New York romance? Her speech to Hannah in Chapter 25 about her dad being miles away physically but always present was deeply touching.
August 31, 2024
This book was such a fun escape!! I absolutely loved the descriptive setting of the book in St. Croix. I wished I was on the sandy beaches with toes in the sand while reading this book. Rory hired Hannah to be her songwriter. He is a huge country music star and her mom used to help him songwriter. There is a 14 year age gap between these two. It is a slow burn as first part of the book both are trying so hard not to give into feelings. However, there is such a dynamic chemistry between these two and it keeps pulling them closer. A wonderful debut with several Taylor Swift references!
September 5, 2024
What a phenomenal debut from the Author. It definitely kept this reader interested and intrigued from the first to the last page. I really enjoyed this authors particular way of writing. I enjoyed getting to know the characters of Rory & Hannah. I cannot wait to see what she writes next. I throughly really enjoyed reading this story.
October 8, 2024
Overall reading: 4.5 / 5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotions: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
Age Gap
Friends to Lovers
Soulmates
Heartbreak & Healing
Found Family
Fantastic Side Characters
Humor & Banter
Forced Proximity
Singer/Songwriter Romance
Open Door
Happily Ever After
*received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
There was so much in this story - more than I had even anticipated honestly. Throughout the book, there are several heavy topics thrown your way, so I would definitely make sure to read all of the content warnings. As smutty as the story was, there was so much angst and heartbreak in this story. I’m aware that it was listed as one of the tropes, but I truly was not expecting as much as we were given by the author.
This book had a few different eras in my opinion. We follow Hannah as she struggles and attempts to figure out how she wants to move forward with her life. She stays as optimistic as she can be, but still, life is rough and she goes through SO much. I was rooting for her throughout the entire story and was crying along with her as she faced true heartbreak. The healing journey that she did - on her own essentially - was truly inspirational. I don’t think that I could have recovered as she did. I would have called it quits and wallowed in my misery for the rest of my life to be completely honest haha. The way she stuck to herself and her dreams made me so proud, making her truly deserve the ending she received.
Rory... I had so many conflicting issues with this man. He was back and forth. Hot and then cold. This man could not make up his mind in my opinion and I was loosing my cool with him. Yes, he had his reasons, especially when he had to move on with his grief while dealing with the world's expectations, but it was extremely frustrating to see the way he was making his decisions. In the end, he DID redeem himself in my opinion. Despite how irritated I was with all of the above, it let the story have a touch of realism, and it reminded me that so many people deal with similar issues. Seeing his POV thankfully allowed me to understand his thoughts and I think that it’s why I ended up loving his character by the end of the story.
This book was heartbreaking but beautiful. A true story, but still has an element of hope and dreams. Please, check it out whenever you have a chance, you will not regret it!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotions: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
Age Gap
Friends to Lovers
Soulmates
Heartbreak & Healing
Found Family
Fantastic Side Characters
Humor & Banter
Forced Proximity
Singer/Songwriter Romance
Open Door
Happily Ever After
*received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
There was so much in this story - more than I had even anticipated honestly. Throughout the book, there are several heavy topics thrown your way, so I would definitely make sure to read all of the content warnings. As smutty as the story was, there was so much angst and heartbreak in this story. I’m aware that it was listed as one of the tropes, but I truly was not expecting as much as we were given by the author.
This book had a few different eras in my opinion. We follow Hannah as she struggles and attempts to figure out how she wants to move forward with her life. She stays as optimistic as she can be, but still, life is rough and she goes through SO much. I was rooting for her throughout the entire story and was crying along with her as she faced true heartbreak. The healing journey that she did - on her own essentially - was truly inspirational. I don’t think that I could have recovered as she did. I would have called it quits and wallowed in my misery for the rest of my life to be completely honest haha. The way she stuck to herself and her dreams made me so proud, making her truly deserve the ending she received.
Rory... I had so many conflicting issues with this man. He was back and forth. Hot and then cold. This man could not make up his mind in my opinion and I was loosing my cool with him. Yes, he had his reasons, especially when he had to move on with his grief while dealing with the world's expectations, but it was extremely frustrating to see the way he was making his decisions. In the end, he DID redeem himself in my opinion. Despite how irritated I was with all of the above, it let the story have a touch of realism, and it reminded me that so many people deal with similar issues. Seeing his POV thankfully allowed me to understand his thoughts and I think that it’s why I ended up loving his character by the end of the story.
This book was heartbreaking but beautiful. A true story, but still has an element of hope and dreams. Please, check it out whenever you have a chance, you will not regret it!
August 23, 2024
It was so fun getting to read The One Who Got Away and getting to dive into another rockstar romance! I loved the process of the romantic connection building between Rory and Hannah. There were so many delicious slow burn, tense moments that I loved.
While I don’t read a lot of age-gap romance, this one totally worked for me. They had the fun banter and ridiculous musical chemistry that led to more physical chemistry. Both characters go through a time of healthy healing and learning how to better communicate those needs rather than running away, and that’s a beautiful thing to see. I believed in them both from the very beginning, which was lovely.
K.L. Shannon does a wonderful job creating compelling characters with multi dimensional lives and rich histories. The romance is gorgeous and spicy at all the right moments. I enjoyed every moment and would absolutely read this again!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
While I don’t read a lot of age-gap romance, this one totally worked for me. They had the fun banter and ridiculous musical chemistry that led to more physical chemistry. Both characters go through a time of healthy healing and learning how to better communicate those needs rather than running away, and that’s a beautiful thing to see. I believed in them both from the very beginning, which was lovely.
K.L. Shannon does a wonderful job creating compelling characters with multi dimensional lives and rich histories. The romance is gorgeous and spicy at all the right moments. I enjoyed every moment and would absolutely read this again!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 4, 2024
I had to stop myself from reading ahead. Loved the third person narration, which some other reviewers disliked (Lucy Score and Tessa Bailey's third person novels are my favorite). Reminded me of classic lit like Jane Eyre (characters have a big build up, fall away from each other and then come back together). Hoping this is a series because I loved all the side characters!
September 5, 2024
ARC REVIEW
omg thank you for giving me the opportunity to read your book and Luna literary for letting me read this cause I know everyone had the moment about they know someone who got away I highly recommend others to read it.
omg thank you for giving me the opportunity to read your book and Luna literary for letting me read this cause I know everyone had the moment about they know someone who got away I highly recommend others to read it.
September 5, 2024
So inspired by KL Shannon and this debut novel!!! Perfect beach read!
February 8, 2025
I loved this story! I felt like the Hannah and Rory's story was told so beautifully in this book.
August 27, 2024
This book was the perfect age gap romance. Rory and Hannah's story was one that took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride, especially when something happens and the relationship hits a hurdle, and when something happens to Hannah.
This book was overall a great read. The characters were amazing, and the plot was interesting, and it was brilliantly written.
Thank you for the opportunity to read an ARC and provide an honest review.
This book was overall a great read. The characters were amazing, and the plot was interesting, and it was brilliantly written.
Thank you for the opportunity to read an ARC and provide an honest review.
October 24, 2024
This was a good book. I enjoyed the characters. The story was good and I loved how everything turned out. It's interesting to see the dynamic and how the band and fame and age played such a big part in their relationship.
December 5, 2024
Get wicked away in this romance book. You need this in your life.
January 27, 2025
Actual Rating: 3.75 stars. Rounding Up to 4.
Summary:
Hannah Beckett is a 28-year-old songwriter who wants to follow her dreams after an unsuccessful marriage with her ex-husband.
Rory Dunnan, 42, a successful country singer, reaches out to Hannah in hopes of working with her, already having worked with her mother a few years back before Hannah's mom died of breast cancer. He learns of Hannah wanting to song-write and helps her pack her bags so she can fly out to work with him somewhere in the Carribean on the Virgin Islands.
Since she was younger, Hannah Beckett has had a small crush on Rory Dunnan and being able to come work with him is a dream come true but is it all it cracks up to be when they kindle a romance?
Thoughts:
Reading K.L. Shannon's debut novel has definitely been a fun ride. This book involves a genuine love connection that I thoroughly enjoyed and was easy to fall into. All of the characters were fun and had a livelihood about them that actually made me feel like I was somewhere in the carribean and I was just here for a vacation. Sadly, I was not and I was made aware when I took a small break and finished the book.
As much as I liked the book, I do feel this is something I would have enjoyed more back in 2019-2020 when I first started getting back into reading and would have given me tons of nostalgia (hence the 3.75 rating.)
This story has easy-to-read writing and is corny and cute and all things lovely. I genuinely enjoyed this debut novel despite it's small flaws (for instance, this is only a flaw in my eyes but the third act breakup 🙈 I dislike those). For a debut, this is definitely one of the better ones I've read and I am super excited to read K.L. Shannon's books as they come out and see how she grows with her writing. I definitely intend to stick around and find out.
Notes:
Reading this as an arc, there was bound to be one or two mistakes with the formatting and when I was sent the book, I only found one. This was my first ARC that I've been able to get my hands on and was unaware of how I should go about letting her know this or if it was even a mistake or if I was confusing myself
I messaged K.L. Shannon about the mistake, just wanting to make her aware (and also assure myself I wasn't wrong) and ohmygod she's so nice and sweet.
She answered all my questions and was very happy I brought up the formatting error to her attention so she could fix it before the final release. She even shouted me out on her threads in thanks (literally was jumping for joy.)
I was going to read more of her books anyway as they come out, but after that interaction I definitely will be in my K.L. Shannon Era.
Summary:
Hannah Beckett is a 28-year-old songwriter who wants to follow her dreams after an unsuccessful marriage with her ex-husband.
Rory Dunnan, 42, a successful country singer, reaches out to Hannah in hopes of working with her, already having worked with her mother a few years back before Hannah's mom died of breast cancer. He learns of Hannah wanting to song-write and helps her pack her bags so she can fly out to work with him somewhere in the Carribean on the Virgin Islands.
Since she was younger, Hannah Beckett has had a small crush on Rory Dunnan and being able to come work with him is a dream come true but is it all it cracks up to be when they kindle a romance?
Thoughts:
Reading K.L. Shannon's debut novel has definitely been a fun ride. This book involves a genuine love connection that I thoroughly enjoyed and was easy to fall into. All of the characters were fun and had a livelihood about them that actually made me feel like I was somewhere in the carribean and I was just here for a vacation. Sadly, I was not and I was made aware when I took a small break and finished the book.
As much as I liked the book, I do feel this is something I would have enjoyed more back in 2019-2020 when I first started getting back into reading and would have given me tons of nostalgia (hence the 3.75 rating.)
This story has easy-to-read writing and is corny and cute and all things lovely. I genuinely enjoyed this debut novel despite it's small flaws (for instance, this is only a flaw in my eyes but the third act breakup 🙈 I dislike those). For a debut, this is definitely one of the better ones I've read and I am super excited to read K.L. Shannon's books as they come out and see how she grows with her writing. I definitely intend to stick around and find out.
Notes:
Reading this as an arc, there was bound to be one or two mistakes with the formatting and when I was sent the book, I only found one. This was my first ARC that I've been able to get my hands on and was unaware of how I should go about letting her know this or if it was even a mistake or if I was confusing myself
I messaged K.L. Shannon about the mistake, just wanting to make her aware (and also assure myself I wasn't wrong) and ohmygod she's so nice and sweet.
She answered all my questions and was very happy I brought up the formatting error to her attention so she could fix it before the final release. She even shouted me out on her threads in thanks (literally was jumping for joy.)
I was going to read more of her books anyway as they come out, but after that interaction I definitely will be in my K.L. Shannon Era.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2024
Hannah Beckett moves to St. Croix for the chance to work with her mother’s old friend and her childhood crush Rory Dunnan as his songwriter. Hannah believes her childhood crush will have blown over, but when they meet, and their witty, flirty personalities clash, will they be able to resist each other?
This novel is written in third person, which is very refreshing. This novel features an age gap romance, which I don’t normally read in contemporary romance, but I loved how it was written in this novel - it just felt so right! Childhood crush turned lover - trust me, it works perfectly - and yes, it is open door spice! I was blown away when I found that this was a debut novel, it’s such a good contemporary romance read. I couldn’t put it down and I binged it at every spare moment I had!
This novel is written in third person, which is very refreshing. This novel features an age gap romance, which I don’t normally read in contemporary romance, but I loved how it was written in this novel - it just felt so right! Childhood crush turned lover - trust me, it works perfectly - and yes, it is open door spice! I was blown away when I found that this was a debut novel, it’s such a good contemporary romance read. I couldn’t put it down and I binged it at every spare moment I had!
September 5, 2024
I’m so utterly and completely impressed by how incredible this book is. It is like a punch to the gut and hug to the heart. The emotions you feel are so big and strong, completely wholesome and healing.
The emotional connection between Rory and Hannah is unparalleled. Talk about emotional healing and growth, leaps and bounds are made during their journey of self-discovery and true love. The connection they share and how it is expressed through music is magical.
Rory is so thoughtful and absolutely head over heels in love with Hannah. He is enamored by her kindness, talent, and drive. I love the way he loves her and shows her how important she is to him. The banter between the two top notch, Hannah is sassy, always has comeback, and cares deeply for those in her inner circle. She is fiercely loyal and so good for Rory; she handles him and really makes him work for it. Their chemistry is explosive, the build up is totally worth it with these two for the spicy scenes that K.L. totally delivers on. Hannah is the bestie you want to have in your corner; she goes to bat for Rory because she wants what is best for him. Rory is the sweetest, naughty cowboy there is! I loved his gruffness and how he really had soft spot for Hannah, even when he was trying to fight it.
They both feel immense pressure in different ways, which causes strains to their relationship but they overcome those to find their way back to one another. Through all of their ups and downs they support, compliment, and empower one another to do what makes them happy.
This is a must read. Two beautiful souls find one another; they heal together, accept each other’s flaws, and encourage each other to be themselves during the pursuit of love & happiness!
Thank you so so much K.L. Shannon for the ARC! I feel immensely blessed to have received an early copy of your debut novel. I can’t wait to read more of your incredible work!
The emotional connection between Rory and Hannah is unparalleled. Talk about emotional healing and growth, leaps and bounds are made during their journey of self-discovery and true love. The connection they share and how it is expressed through music is magical.
Rory is so thoughtful and absolutely head over heels in love with Hannah. He is enamored by her kindness, talent, and drive. I love the way he loves her and shows her how important she is to him. The banter between the two top notch, Hannah is sassy, always has comeback, and cares deeply for those in her inner circle. She is fiercely loyal and so good for Rory; she handles him and really makes him work for it. Their chemistry is explosive, the build up is totally worth it with these two for the spicy scenes that K.L. totally delivers on. Hannah is the bestie you want to have in your corner; she goes to bat for Rory because she wants what is best for him. Rory is the sweetest, naughty cowboy there is! I loved his gruffness and how he really had soft spot for Hannah, even when he was trying to fight it.
They both feel immense pressure in different ways, which causes strains to their relationship but they overcome those to find their way back to one another. Through all of their ups and downs they support, compliment, and empower one another to do what makes them happy.
This is a must read. Two beautiful souls find one another; they heal together, accept each other’s flaws, and encourage each other to be themselves during the pursuit of love & happiness!
Thank you so so much K.L. Shannon for the ARC! I feel immensely blessed to have received an early copy of your debut novel. I can’t wait to read more of your incredible work!
August 26, 2024
📚ARC book review📚
Hello lovely bookstagrammers, I received the ARC for K.L. Shannon's debut novel, The One Who Got Away, and it was such a sweet, tragic, funny, heartfelt story! I won't lie. It took me quite a few chapters to really be invested (the reason for the .75 in the rating). I think it was primarily because it started a bit slow and it had been a while since I had read a book written in third person, so it was an adjustment, but once a major plot point rolled around I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen and if there would be a HEA. I'm so glad I decided to keep reading!! There were many fun side characters, and I really enjoyed all the relationships and the hilarious banter between the main characters and their friends/family.
Blurb:
Can you write a love song if you've never truly been in love?
Songwriter Hannah Beckett has played it safe her whole life after losing her mother young... her mother, who helped launch Rory's career.
Fourteen years, her senior, handsome country music star, Rory Dunnan, has to carry the weight of his fame and responsibility of managing his country music brand and all the loyal people tied to it.
Will they recognize what fate has delivered them in each other before it’s too late?
🏝The One That Got Away🏝
Releases September 4, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶.5 *considered a 3🌶 as there were quite a few spicy scenes, but there were maybe two that went into more descriptive details, and the others were pretty tame, hence the 2.5🌶 rating.
🎸 Third person
🎸 Singer x songwriter
🎸 Age gap
🎸 Tropical setting
🎸 Humor and banter
🎸 Friends to lovers, soulmates
🎸 Heartbreak to healing
🎸 Found family
🎸 Open door spice
🎸 Taylor Swift lovers
Hello lovely bookstagrammers, I received the ARC for K.L. Shannon's debut novel, The One Who Got Away, and it was such a sweet, tragic, funny, heartfelt story! I won't lie. It took me quite a few chapters to really be invested (the reason for the .75 in the rating). I think it was primarily because it started a bit slow and it had been a while since I had read a book written in third person, so it was an adjustment, but once a major plot point rolled around I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen and if there would be a HEA. I'm so glad I decided to keep reading!! There were many fun side characters, and I really enjoyed all the relationships and the hilarious banter between the main characters and their friends/family.
Blurb:
Can you write a love song if you've never truly been in love?
Songwriter Hannah Beckett has played it safe her whole life after losing her mother young... her mother, who helped launch Rory's career.
Fourteen years, her senior, handsome country music star, Rory Dunnan, has to carry the weight of his fame and responsibility of managing his country music brand and all the loyal people tied to it.
Will they recognize what fate has delivered them in each other before it’s too late?
🏝The One That Got Away🏝
Releases September 4, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶🌶.5 *considered a 3🌶 as there were quite a few spicy scenes, but there were maybe two that went into more descriptive details, and the others were pretty tame, hence the 2.5🌶 rating.
🎸 Third person
🎸 Singer x songwriter
🎸 Age gap
🎸 Tropical setting
🎸 Humor and banter
🎸 Friends to lovers, soulmates
🎸 Heartbreak to healing
🎸 Found family
🎸 Open door spice
🎸 Taylor Swift lovers
September 3, 2024
Hannah Beckett is chasing her dreams of following her late mother's footsteps as a songwriter. She has a chance to work with Rory Dunnan, a huge star that her mom used to write with, who she also used to have a huge crush on as a kid. After having her Coyote Ugly moment with her father at the airport, she's off on an adventure. While it's instalust for her and her new boss, who's 14 years her senior, they also work very well together musically. SO much so, he asks her to join him on his tour.
But Rory's manager is worried about the optics and he decides to leave her behind to go on tour. Effectively dumping her and crushing her dreams.
While Hannah can't get over Rory, she sets off to at least move on and make a name for herself.
This book is split into 3 parts. The 2nd part almost seems unnecessary, as the second love interest that was set up from the start, who has been witty, fun, and sincere, a real charming Romeo, is suddenly portrayed as a total dud. It's a shame, because Chance was one of my favorite parts of the book, and he was done dirty in the name of trying to make Rory seems like such a winner.
The author did a great job of making me hate Rory's manager. And I always appreciate TSwift references, of which there were many.
The 3rd person POV made it sound so choppy, and confusing at times. There is some clunky dialog, notably in the intimate moments. And while Rory was a total Consent King, he sure got past that real quick when Hannah wanted him to try something... different. And frankly, I'm shocked that this book didn't end up as an accidental pregnancy trope.
All in all, I think the story had promise, but the execution missed the mark for me.
3.5 ⭐ 2.75🌶️
But Rory's manager is worried about the optics and he decides to leave her behind to go on tour. Effectively dumping her and crushing her dreams.
While Hannah can't get over Rory, she sets off to at least move on and make a name for herself.
This book is split into 3 parts. The 2nd part almost seems unnecessary, as the second love interest that was set up from the start, who has been witty, fun, and sincere, a real charming Romeo, is suddenly portrayed as a total dud. It's a shame, because Chance was one of my favorite parts of the book, and he was done dirty in the name of trying to make Rory seems like such a winner.
The author did a great job of making me hate Rory's manager. And I always appreciate TSwift references, of which there were many.
The 3rd person POV made it sound so choppy, and confusing at times. There is some clunky dialog, notably in the intimate moments. And while Rory was a total Consent King, he sure got past that real quick when Hannah wanted him to try something... different. And frankly, I'm shocked that this book didn't end up as an accidental pregnancy trope.
All in all, I think the story had promise, but the execution missed the mark for me.
3.5 ⭐ 2.75🌶️
August 22, 2024
*The One Who Got Away ~ K.L. Shannon*
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book Release Date: September 4th
🩵Tropes: Contemporary Romance, Age Gap, Friends to Lovers, Soulmates, Heartbreak & Healing, Found Family, Fantastic Side Characters, Humor & Banter, Forced Proximity, Singer/Songwriter Romance, Open Door. *IF YOU LIKE ANY OF THESE DEF GIVE THIS BOOK A TRY*
🎸Such a fun quick & easy read! This was my first K.L. Shannon book and it was really good. There were points that felt slower paced but once I got to a certain point in the book, I just couldn’t put it down because I just had to know what was going to happen. The characters were so fun and I loved the dynamic between Rory and Hannah 🤭 I love a good age gap romance. I enjoyed how up front they were with each other as well. John made me want to rip my hair out, but his character made for a great storyline for the leads. & I just can’t get enough of the TSwift references 😍🫶🏻 & the spice?! SPICY!!! There were certain points where I feel like spicy scenes were randomly thrown in where it wasn’t needed but regardless they were fun to read 🤪. This book was overall very enjoyable!
Definitely recommend grabbing this book when it comes out & give it a try. I am so happy I was given access to this ARC! 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book Release Date: September 4th
🩵Tropes: Contemporary Romance, Age Gap, Friends to Lovers, Soulmates, Heartbreak & Healing, Found Family, Fantastic Side Characters, Humor & Banter, Forced Proximity, Singer/Songwriter Romance, Open Door. *IF YOU LIKE ANY OF THESE DEF GIVE THIS BOOK A TRY*
🎸Such a fun quick & easy read! This was my first K.L. Shannon book and it was really good. There were points that felt slower paced but once I got to a certain point in the book, I just couldn’t put it down because I just had to know what was going to happen. The characters were so fun and I loved the dynamic between Rory and Hannah 🤭 I love a good age gap romance. I enjoyed how up front they were with each other as well. John made me want to rip my hair out, but his character made for a great storyline for the leads. & I just can’t get enough of the TSwift references 😍🫶🏻 & the spice?! SPICY!!! There were certain points where I feel like spicy scenes were randomly thrown in where it wasn’t needed but regardless they were fun to read 🤪. This book was overall very enjoyable!
Definitely recommend grabbing this book when it comes out & give it a try. I am so happy I was given access to this ARC! 🥰
September 4, 2024
Hannah, desperate for a new beginning after being engaged to someone who she didn’t actually love, ventures to St. Croix US Virgin Islands to take a job writing songs with the famous country singer Rory Dunnan. Already having emotional ties to Rory being that Hannah’s late mom Bethany helped launch his career back in the day, she isn’t surprised when this little job she took to start over turns into something more. Rory just has to get out of his own way and let himself be happy. 💗🌴🌺🍹🍍✨
This was such a fun read! And congratulations on your debut K.L! This is third person narrative, which I don’t mind as I have read plenty of Elin Hilderbrand before. I loved the premise of this book, Hannah already having ties to Rory through her late mom. I also felt like I could connect to Hannah also being in my late 20s and just trying to figure out this thing called life and what you truly want. And I mean who doesn’t have fantasies about falling in love with an older country singer in the US Virgin Islands?! 🤠🔥😂
This book had me emotionally connected due to then breast cancer representation and it being in someone who is in their late 20s. I can’t say much further without spoilers, but thank you K.L for sharing Bethany & Hannah’s journey 💗
Another fun tidbit bit, our girl Hannah is a MAJOR swiftie and WE LOVE TO SEE IT 👏🏻🫶🏻✨ I think anyone can connect with this book, whether you are in your early/late 20s or 40/50s 💖
If you love…
🌴age gaps
💗open door spice
🌴hot older country singers
💗fun side characters
🌴friends to lovers
💗heartbreak/healing
🌴found family
Then you will want to add this book to your TBR!
This was such a fun read! And congratulations on your debut K.L! This is third person narrative, which I don’t mind as I have read plenty of Elin Hilderbrand before. I loved the premise of this book, Hannah already having ties to Rory through her late mom. I also felt like I could connect to Hannah also being in my late 20s and just trying to figure out this thing called life and what you truly want. And I mean who doesn’t have fantasies about falling in love with an older country singer in the US Virgin Islands?! 🤠🔥😂
This book had me emotionally connected due to then breast cancer representation and it being in someone who is in their late 20s. I can’t say much further without spoilers, but thank you K.L for sharing Bethany & Hannah’s journey 💗
Another fun tidbit bit, our girl Hannah is a MAJOR swiftie and WE LOVE TO SEE IT 👏🏻🫶🏻✨ I think anyone can connect with this book, whether you are in your early/late 20s or 40/50s 💖
If you love…
🌴age gaps
💗open door spice
🌴hot older country singers
💗fun side characters
🌴friends to lovers
💗heartbreak/healing
🌴found family
Then you will want to add this book to your TBR!
September 3, 2024
Im not normally a fan of third person stories but this book convinced me with the prologue that it was going to be an amazing book. I was not disappointed and I loved this book and finished it so fast.
The prologue had me shocked at first then realizing it was all a dream like hello? I relate. I am so happy that Rory and Hannah got their happy ever after at the end. John is my least favorite person in this book and besides the obvious MC being amazing I loved Mike and Sophia, they were both amazing for Rory and Hannah. I wish we saw a little more of Sophia and Rory more than the slight interaction in the house. Mike and Hannah had such an amazing sibling relationship that was amazing.
I love that this book had different parts and that each chapter had a date so we could follow along with how the story was progressing and I always felt like I was along for the ride. This book was so well written that I never felt that the story was missing anything or jumping around. I wish the next book we get is either Sophia or Chances book, I want to see more of Sophia and her boyfriends relationship and I want Chance to be able to find the love he deserves
The prologue had me shocked at first then realizing it was all a dream like hello? I relate. I am so happy that Rory and Hannah got their happy ever after at the end. John is my least favorite person in this book and besides the obvious MC being amazing I loved Mike and Sophia, they were both amazing for Rory and Hannah. I wish we saw a little more of Sophia and Rory more than the slight interaction in the house. Mike and Hannah had such an amazing sibling relationship that was amazing.
I love that this book had different parts and that each chapter had a date so we could follow along with how the story was progressing and I always felt like I was along for the ride. This book was so well written that I never felt that the story was missing anything or jumping around. I wish the next book we get is either Sophia or Chances book, I want to see more of Sophia and her boyfriends relationship and I want Chance to be able to find the love he deserves
September 4, 2024
"This can't be a one-time thing for me. I don't think that would be possible, especially now that I know what you taste like."
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Hannah and Rory's story! The banter that these two had was hilarious. It's not just a good story between two characters, you have some amazing side characters as well, the kinds of friends you wish you had in real life.
Hannah Beckett is a songwriter who gets the opportunity of a lifetime to write songs with Rory Dunnan, a famous country music artist. She has played it safe her whole life, but now it's time for her to spread her wings and find her way in life.
From their friendship a relationship starts to bloom, no matter how hard Rory tries to fight it. There is spice, there is happiness, there is love, there is heartbreak, and there is a happily ever after.
FYI - This book is written in third person narrative, so you can be aware of that prior to reading, but I would still give it a shot!
If you enjoy:
🎸 age gap
🎸 found family
🎸 forced proximity
🎸 friends to lovers
🎸 humor and banther
🎸 fantastic side characters
🎸 heartbreak and healing
🎸 singer/songwriter
Then this story is for you!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Hannah and Rory's story! The banter that these two had was hilarious. It's not just a good story between two characters, you have some amazing side characters as well, the kinds of friends you wish you had in real life.
Hannah Beckett is a songwriter who gets the opportunity of a lifetime to write songs with Rory Dunnan, a famous country music artist. She has played it safe her whole life, but now it's time for her to spread her wings and find her way in life.
From their friendship a relationship starts to bloom, no matter how hard Rory tries to fight it. There is spice, there is happiness, there is love, there is heartbreak, and there is a happily ever after.
FYI - This book is written in third person narrative, so you can be aware of that prior to reading, but I would still give it a shot!
If you enjoy:
🎸 age gap
🎸 found family
🎸 forced proximity
🎸 friends to lovers
🎸 humor and banther
🎸 fantastic side characters
🎸 heartbreak and healing
🎸 singer/songwriter
Then this story is for you!
September 4, 2024
The One Who Got Away is a slow burn, age gap romance set mainly in St. Croix. This book is a perfect escape and quick read book. The imagery used to describe St. Croix made me feel like my toes were in the sand right next to Hannah and Rory.
Hannah is an aspiring song writer who gets hired by a well know musician, Rory Dunnan, to assist in writing his new music. The catch: Hannah has to move to St. Croix. Hannah ended a long term relationship/engagement and decided this was the perfect opportunity to find herself. Not to mention this is 100% a dream job since her mother also wrote songs with Rory at the very beginning of his career.
Rory is a man that constantly gives to those around him and never seems to take from anyone. He has a horrible manager who gaslights him constantly. Rory’s love for Hannah is beautiful from the very beginning.
The spice in this book was HOT. Loved it. I also thoroughly enjoyed the side characters and the subplots throughout the novel.
PS: the Swiftie in me loved playlist at the beginning and every single Taylor Swift reference made throughout the book.
Skipping out on the favorite quote this time because it’s a spoiler!
Hannah is an aspiring song writer who gets hired by a well know musician, Rory Dunnan, to assist in writing his new music. The catch: Hannah has to move to St. Croix. Hannah ended a long term relationship/engagement and decided this was the perfect opportunity to find herself. Not to mention this is 100% a dream job since her mother also wrote songs with Rory at the very beginning of his career.
Rory is a man that constantly gives to those around him and never seems to take from anyone. He has a horrible manager who gaslights him constantly. Rory’s love for Hannah is beautiful from the very beginning.
The spice in this book was HOT. Loved it. I also thoroughly enjoyed the side characters and the subplots throughout the novel.
PS: the Swiftie in me loved playlist at the beginning and every single Taylor Swift reference made throughout the book.
Skipping out on the favorite quote this time because it’s a spoiler!
August 26, 2024
The One Who Got Away by K.L. Shannon
This was such a good read and a great debut for K.L. Shannon. Hannah and Rory are brought together when Rory hires Hannah to write music with him. As a country superstar Rory has worked with many songwriters, including Hannah’s mom before she passed away, so Hannah was thrilled at the opportunity to work with a guy that is connected to her mother’s musical past, and was also her teen crush.
The connection between the two of them was strong even when Hannah wanted to remain professional and Rory was concerned about their age difference. There were times when things got bumpy and I wanted to shake Rory and tell him to wake the heck up, and some “what were you thinking, girl?!?” moments for Hannah, but I loved how their story played out!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎸Age Gap,
✨Friends to Lovers,
🎸Heartbreak & Healing,
✨Found Family,
🎸Fantastic Side Characters,
✨Humor & Banter,
🎸Forced Proximity,
✨Singer/Songwriter Romance,
🎸Happily Ever After... and a lot of spice along the way!
This was such a good read and a great debut for K.L. Shannon. Hannah and Rory are brought together when Rory hires Hannah to write music with him. As a country superstar Rory has worked with many songwriters, including Hannah’s mom before she passed away, so Hannah was thrilled at the opportunity to work with a guy that is connected to her mother’s musical past, and was also her teen crush.
The connection between the two of them was strong even when Hannah wanted to remain professional and Rory was concerned about their age difference. There were times when things got bumpy and I wanted to shake Rory and tell him to wake the heck up, and some “what were you thinking, girl?!?” moments for Hannah, but I loved how their story played out!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎸Age Gap,
✨Friends to Lovers,
🎸Heartbreak & Healing,
✨Found Family,
🎸Fantastic Side Characters,
✨Humor & Banter,
🎸Forced Proximity,
✨Singer/Songwriter Romance,
🎸Happily Ever After... and a lot of spice along the way!
August 25, 2024
The One Who Got Away
By @klshannon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Every moment with her was like pure oxygen.
Hannah Beckett is at a crossroads in her life after ending an engagement to her longtime boyfriend. When she gets the opportunity to move to a tropical island and write songs with the same man who wrote with her mom, she jumps.
Rory Dunnan is a very successful country music singer. Inspired and tempted by the aspiring writer 14 years his junior, he invites her to write with him.
This is a sweet, funny, heartfelt, tragic, spicy, soul healing story about an aspiring country music writer and her celebrity crush. When you know you know. And when your heart is broken by that someone you either fall apart or try to move forward. But the memories haunt your dreams. You can't believe it's really over. Or is it?
By @klshannon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Every moment with her was like pure oxygen.
Hannah Beckett is at a crossroads in her life after ending an engagement to her longtime boyfriend. When she gets the opportunity to move to a tropical island and write songs with the same man who wrote with her mom, she jumps.
Rory Dunnan is a very successful country music singer. Inspired and tempted by the aspiring writer 14 years his junior, he invites her to write with him.
This is a sweet, funny, heartfelt, tragic, spicy, soul healing story about an aspiring country music writer and her celebrity crush. When you know you know. And when your heart is broken by that someone you either fall apart or try to move forward. But the memories haunt your dreams. You can't believe it's really over. Or is it?
September 2, 2024
Such a a treasure trove of interlaced tropes in this beautiful, contemporary romance debut novel. There is friends to lovers and forced proximity, as the MFC, Hannah is a songwriter who gets the opportunity to write for the MMC, Rory, a country singer. “She is lost because she didn’t follow her dreams and he is lost because he did.” The age gap romance pulls at the heartstrings as it is not all perfect… even though they are truly soulmates and have a great connection (open-door spice scenes) and chemistry. One cannot help to root for the characters…”will they recognize what fate has delivered them in each other before it’s too late?” And I’m going to say that the song written by Hannah featured…well…it needs to be on the actual air, it is amazing.
Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management for the eARC.
Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management for the eARC.
September 4, 2024
The One Who Got Away wasn't my typical pick for a romance read because of it being an Age-gap romance...but I'm so glad I gave it a chance!
I really loved the backstory for both characters. Hannah grew up wanting to be a songwriter like her mom and when she gets the chance to work with Rory Dunnan, a country music star her mom also worked with, she doesn't pass it up. Hannah uproots her life to move to USVI to live her dream with her guitar, the passion for writing songs, and maybe a little bit of a crush on her employer.
Rory has lived and breathed being a country music star for a very long time and doesn't really know anything else. He is at a crossroads of sorts when he hires Hannah to be his new song writer and he gets more than he bargains for.
You get a whole lot of romance, a touch of comedy, and a serving of finding yourself in this debut novel from K. L. Shannon.
I really loved the backstory for both characters. Hannah grew up wanting to be a songwriter like her mom and when she gets the chance to work with Rory Dunnan, a country music star her mom also worked with, she doesn't pass it up. Hannah uproots her life to move to USVI to live her dream with her guitar, the passion for writing songs, and maybe a little bit of a crush on her employer.
Rory has lived and breathed being a country music star for a very long time and doesn't really know anything else. He is at a crossroads of sorts when he hires Hannah to be his new song writer and he gets more than he bargains for.
You get a whole lot of romance, a touch of comedy, and a serving of finding yourself in this debut novel from K. L. Shannon.
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