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Only in Goose Hollow #3
The Only Thing That's Real
The Only Thing That's Real is book three in the Only in Goose Hollow series by USA Today Bestselling author Lisa Shelby! In this interconnected standalone, take a trip back to Goose Hollow and go on tour with the Hollow Knocks!
Ryan Staley has got to go.
We hired the beautiful, fierce journalist to chronicle my band’s farewell tour.
But that was before my life blew up.
Before every stage I performed on became shrouded in the shame of my secret.
A secret I haven’t even shared with my bandmates, my chosen family.
Now is not the time for deep-diving questions about my life, but Ryan is around every corner I turn and refuses to be intimidated or ignored.
She wants to know what I’ll do when my touring career comes to a screeching halt, and I move back to the small town I couldn’t run away from fast enough.
A town I can no longer avoid.
But Ryan has claimed every spare thought in my head. Her lips, hypnotizing to the point of distraction. The perfect rasp of her voice, sending chills down my spine, asking questions I can’t answer, and making me risk spilling all my secrets.
Ryan Staley has got to go.
Ryan Staley has got to go.
We hired the beautiful, fierce journalist to chronicle my band’s farewell tour.
But that was before my life blew up.
Before every stage I performed on became shrouded in the shame of my secret.
A secret I haven’t even shared with my bandmates, my chosen family.
Now is not the time for deep-diving questions about my life, but Ryan is around every corner I turn and refuses to be intimidated or ignored.
She wants to know what I’ll do when my touring career comes to a screeching halt, and I move back to the small town I couldn’t run away from fast enough.
A town I can no longer avoid.
But Ryan has claimed every spare thought in my head. Her lips, hypnotizing to the point of distraction. The perfect rasp of her voice, sending chills down my spine, asking questions I can’t answer, and making me risk spilling all my secrets.
Ryan Staley has got to go.
420 pages, Paperback
First published May 20, 2025
17 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Shelby
20 books783 followersLisa Shelby is a USA Today bestselling contemporary romance author, a self-proclaimed love geek, and cake-pop addict. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, this is still where Lisa calls home with her husband and their dogs. When she isn’t writing her next happily ever after, you can find Lisa with her husband traveling, listening to live music, and living their new empty nest lifestyle while pretending they aren't wishing their son would call or drop by every day.
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JOIN MY READER GROUP!
http://bit.ly/2rXjJ7S
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
http://amzn.to/2mffkd0
VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/lisashelbybo...
VISIT ME ON INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/lisashelbyb...
Read We Are Tonight FREE when you sign up for my newsletter! Click here to sign up and read for FREE! https://BookHip.com/MZTJVhttp://bit.l...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 31, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
ARC Review
Tropes:
Rockstar x Journalist
Single Dad
Found Family
He Falls First and Hard
Sister's best friend
It felt so good to be back in Goose Hollow(sorta). I was very excited about Knox' story and this did not disappoint! This was an emotional rollercoaster that had my heart breaking multiple times, but also smiling from joy!
Ryan has been assigned to write a series of articles about the rock band Hollow Knocks, she had been hand picked by the band themselves, but seeing Ryan in the flesh, Knox is feeling a certain way and wants nothing to do with her.
This story was hilarious! I loved the banter between Knox and Ryan! Ryan gave just as much as she got! I was smiling every time Ryan put Knox in his place!
Opening up and being vulnerable was a struggle for both these MCs; seeing them both grow and find comfort & peace in each other was heartmelting. They both had self doubt and it was a constant struggle for them. I was so overjoyed when they finally realized they loved each other and didn't want to let the other go!
Knox is such a softie under his tough rockstar appearance! It broke my heart every time he thought he wasn't worthy of happiness. He had such a wonderful family and an amazing band that's became a family, he had nothing to worry about. I loved reading him with his son and do wish we got more of them together, especially in the epilogue.
I adored how Ryan still had such a pure soul after a brutal childhood! Her wanting to give Knox everything & hurting because she can't. Although I can see where she was coming from, Ryan's insisting on never getting married seemed weird, but Knox understood and was happy as long as they were together.
There were 2 things I didn't like about this book.
The first one is, the whole attitude of Ryan's father. Yes, he was cruel and unnecessarily rude to Ryan, but I also understood his viewpoint as well. He just found out he was lied to, and had every right not to want Ryan. But making Ryan the sole focus of his cruelness was wrong. To me, Ryan's mother was the one at fault and to be deserved that cruelty & hate more than anyone.
The second one was Knox' reason for leaving Goose Hollow, to begin with. I just felt it was too much. The story had a lot of topics/struggles, adding that one felt over the top.
This was an amazing story and I loved every minute of it! Can't wait for Daisy's story next! And possibly Trevor's!
ARC Review
Tropes:
Rockstar x Journalist
Single Dad
Found Family
He Falls First and Hard
Sister's best friend
It felt so good to be back in Goose Hollow(sorta). I was very excited about Knox' story and this did not disappoint! This was an emotional rollercoaster that had my heart breaking multiple times, but also smiling from joy!
Ryan has been assigned to write a series of articles about the rock band Hollow Knocks, she had been hand picked by the band themselves, but seeing Ryan in the flesh, Knox is feeling a certain way and wants nothing to do with her.
This story was hilarious! I loved the banter between Knox and Ryan! Ryan gave just as much as she got! I was smiling every time Ryan put Knox in his place!
Opening up and being vulnerable was a struggle for both these MCs; seeing them both grow and find comfort & peace in each other was heartmelting. They both had self doubt and it was a constant struggle for them. I was so overjoyed when they finally realized they loved each other and didn't want to let the other go!
Knox is such a softie under his tough rockstar appearance! It broke my heart every time he thought he wasn't worthy of happiness. He had such a wonderful family and an amazing band that's became a family, he had nothing to worry about. I loved reading him with his son and do wish we got more of them together, especially in the epilogue.
I adored how Ryan still had such a pure soul after a brutal childhood! Her wanting to give Knox everything & hurting because she can't. Although I can see where she was coming from, Ryan's insisting on never getting married seemed weird, but Knox understood and was happy as long as they were together.
There were 2 things I didn't like about this book.
The first one is, the whole attitude of Ryan's father. Yes, he was cruel and unnecessarily rude to Ryan, but I also understood his viewpoint as well. He just found out he was lied to, and had every right not to want Ryan. But making Ryan the sole focus of his cruelness was wrong. To me, Ryan's mother was the one at fault and to be deserved that cruelty & hate more than anyone.
The second one was Knox' reason for leaving Goose Hollow, to begin with. I just felt it was too much. The story had a lot of topics/struggles, adding that one felt over the top.
This was an amazing story and I loved every minute of it! Can't wait for Daisy's story next! And possibly Trevor's!
May 16, 2025
4 Star Review The Only Thing That’s Real (Only in Goose Hollow #3) by Lisa Shelby
Lisa Shelby is a relatively new author to me, but what I have read I have enjoyed.
The Only Thing That’s Real was well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
The third book in the series and is
journalist Ryan and lead singer of the band Hollow Knocks, Knox’s story and one that I enjoyed.
The chemistry between them sizzled and the tension was palpable. What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring them together or rip them apart?
This was an entertaining, romantic, at times emotional story that ticked numerous boxes for me.
Lisa Shelby is a relatively new author to me, but what I have read I have enjoyed.
The Only Thing That’s Real was well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
The third book in the series and is
journalist Ryan and lead singer of the band Hollow Knocks, Knox’s story and one that I enjoyed.
The chemistry between them sizzled and the tension was palpable. What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring them together or rip them apart?
This was an entertaining, romantic, at times emotional story that ticked numerous boxes for me.
May 20, 2025
Knox and Ryan
This is the first time and I read this author and since it revolved around rockers, I knew I had to read this. This is a slow burn story of a rockstar and a journalist who was touring with the band doing a story on them. Falling for a rockstar is the last thing Ryan needs especially if she wants to keep her past in the past.
This book was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and had me hoping that this couple would find their HEA.
This is the first time and I read this author and since it revolved around rockers, I knew I had to read this. This is a slow burn story of a rockstar and a journalist who was touring with the band doing a story on them. Falling for a rockstar is the last thing Ryan needs especially if she wants to keep her past in the past.
This book was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and had me hoping that this couple would find their HEA.
May 16, 2025
4 Star Review The Only Thing That’s Real (Only in Goose Hollow #3) by Lisa Shelby
Lisa Shelby is a relatively new author to me, but what I have read I have enjoyed.
The Only Thing That’s Real was well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
The third book in the series and is
journalist Ryan and lead singer of the band Hollow Knocks, Knox’s story and one that I enjoyed.
The chemistry between them sizzled and the tension was palpable. What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring them together or rip them apart?
This was an entertaining, romantic, at times emotional story that ticked numerous boxes for me.
Lisa Shelby is a relatively new author to me, but what I have read I have enjoyed.
The Only Thing That’s Real was well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
The third book in the series and is
journalist Ryan and lead singer of the band Hollow Knocks, Knox’s story and one that I enjoyed.
The chemistry between them sizzled and the tension was palpable. What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring them together or rip them apart?
This was an entertaining, romantic, at times emotional story that ticked numerous boxes for me.
May 9, 2025
..." I'm drowning. Drowning in her intoxicating beauty without a flotation device. My lungs constrict as I fight for air." Holy... Knox. You've shown me how deep a man can love a woman... and for that I am so incredibly thankful.
Bare with me as I struggle to put this review into the correct words... Never have I been at a loss when reviewing a book. This book... the chemistry... the absolute insane amount of PURE love that is shared between our MMC Knox and FMC Ryan is... INCREDIBLE.
We have Knox, lead singer of a hometown band called Hollow Knocks with a history of hurt, pain... a man that has lived his life in secrets. We throw in Ryan, a journalist who is touring with our beloved band doing a piece on the band of brothers; a woman with her own fair share of pain and secrets that have kept her from a life she deserved... From the moment that Knox first laid eyes on Ryan, the rest was history. We follow Knox's journey of doing absolutely everything he can to stop what he's feeling that is burning inside, dying to reach the surface. Both our main characters have a history, they have trauma they are actively working through and growing from, they use their past to try to keep their love for each other at bay, but NOTHING... and I literally mean NOTHING was able to stop the inevitable.
SLOW BURN WHERE Lisa Shelby... seriously?! Sure there may not have been physical passion from the absolute beginning, but the stolen glances... the body's natural reaction to just the presence of each other in the room had me crawling and begging for more each time. Then to blast us with their actual physical passion... mmhmm. I see you!! I see what you did there!
"There isn't a song in existence that could express the way I feel when I'm around her. The way she destabilizes my world while righting it all at once." I'm dying. slowly... of pure bliss.
I promise to always keep my reviews spoiler free, and there really isn't much that I can say more about this book but to tell you to take the time to read it. Dive into the journey of their love and you will find yourself longing for someone to love you like Knox loves Ryan. As far as for the writer, this is the first book from Lisa Shelby that I have had the honor to read, and I am a FAN. I was initially intimidated by the length of the book, but it's such an easy and fast read because of how she poured everything she could into our character's story. There's love, heartbreak, depth, happiness...it has everything! I can't wait to see what comes next from this one <3
As always thank you to my friends over at the Author Agency and Lisa Shelby for giving me the opportunity to read and review the book prior to release! I can't wait to see the reviews flood this page as the book community gets their hands on this!
Bare with me as I struggle to put this review into the correct words... Never have I been at a loss when reviewing a book. This book... the chemistry... the absolute insane amount of PURE love that is shared between our MMC Knox and FMC Ryan is... INCREDIBLE.
We have Knox, lead singer of a hometown band called Hollow Knocks with a history of hurt, pain... a man that has lived his life in secrets. We throw in Ryan, a journalist who is touring with our beloved band doing a piece on the band of brothers; a woman with her own fair share of pain and secrets that have kept her from a life she deserved... From the moment that Knox first laid eyes on Ryan, the rest was history. We follow Knox's journey of doing absolutely everything he can to stop what he's feeling that is burning inside, dying to reach the surface. Both our main characters have a history, they have trauma they are actively working through and growing from, they use their past to try to keep their love for each other at bay, but NOTHING... and I literally mean NOTHING was able to stop the inevitable.
SLOW BURN WHERE Lisa Shelby... seriously?! Sure there may not have been physical passion from the absolute beginning, but the stolen glances... the body's natural reaction to just the presence of each other in the room had me crawling and begging for more each time. Then to blast us with their actual physical passion... mmhmm. I see you!! I see what you did there!
"There isn't a song in existence that could express the way I feel when I'm around her. The way she destabilizes my world while righting it all at once." I'm dying. slowly... of pure bliss.
I promise to always keep my reviews spoiler free, and there really isn't much that I can say more about this book but to tell you to take the time to read it. Dive into the journey of their love and you will find yourself longing for someone to love you like Knox loves Ryan. As far as for the writer, this is the first book from Lisa Shelby that I have had the honor to read, and I am a FAN. I was initially intimidated by the length of the book, but it's such an easy and fast read because of how she poured everything she could into our character's story. There's love, heartbreak, depth, happiness...it has everything! I can't wait to see what comes next from this one <3
As always thank you to my friends over at the Author Agency and Lisa Shelby for giving me the opportunity to read and review the book prior to release! I can't wait to see the reviews flood this page as the book community gets their hands on this!
May 24, 2025
Let me just scream into a pillow for a moment because Lisa Shelby's The Only Thing That's Real completely and utterly destroyed me in the most wonderful way. I was clutching my phone and kicking my feet at two in the morning because this book had the ideal dosage of anguish, steam, and swoony tension. It was slow burn perfection. Knox is the kind of shattered, brooding rock star who simultaneously makes your heart skip a beat and tremble. Every breath he took, every look he attempted to avoid giving Ryan, and every agonized moment he continued to push her away when all I wanted was for him to simply let go and fall—I believe I felt it all.
.
I honestly wanted to relocate in Goose Hollow and wait for a brooding rock star to return to town and make me feel things because Lisa Shelby created a setting that was so lovely that it felt like home even though it hurt. It was all about the forced proximity. I felt like I wanted to blow out because Ryan and Knox were locked on tour together and there was so much tension building. I was screaming because of all those little details the main characters had that never failed to make me blush and scream, I swear there were plenty of moments where I left my kindle away and started watching at my wall and just blushing and thinking but what if Knox let go and kissed Ryan... and I had such an angry yearning because the slow burn burned me a bit too much!
.
I thought Ryan was the best journalist ever, and I loved that she refused to be intimidated by Knox. It was like seeing the most gentle storm come in as she broke through his boundaries because she was fierce, intelligent, and so real. Knox was aware that he had no chance. Everything was made much more intense by the way he longed for her but kept attempting to hide it due to his secret. I needed to see him let his guard down, so I kept reading. Every moment between them was filled with pain and fury, and I was simply taking in what they had to say.
.
Lisa Shelby is such a beautiful writer, I can hands down say that she is the Queen of Slow Burn. My heart skipped a beat because of the way she packed each chapter with heart in such thoughtful settings. This relationship has heart, weight, and a tenderness that made me melt. You need this novel in your life if you enjoy small-town drama, a romance that develops, burns, and lives on, and rock stars who are actually kind strong women who don't take crap. I’m obsessed and I’m not even sorry about it.
.
I honestly wanted to relocate in Goose Hollow and wait for a brooding rock star to return to town and make me feel things because Lisa Shelby created a setting that was so lovely that it felt like home even though it hurt. It was all about the forced proximity. I felt like I wanted to blow out because Ryan and Knox were locked on tour together and there was so much tension building. I was screaming because of all those little details the main characters had that never failed to make me blush and scream, I swear there were plenty of moments where I left my kindle away and started watching at my wall and just blushing and thinking but what if Knox let go and kissed Ryan... and I had such an angry yearning because the slow burn burned me a bit too much!
.
I thought Ryan was the best journalist ever, and I loved that she refused to be intimidated by Knox. It was like seeing the most gentle storm come in as she broke through his boundaries because she was fierce, intelligent, and so real. Knox was aware that he had no chance. Everything was made much more intense by the way he longed for her but kept attempting to hide it due to his secret. I needed to see him let his guard down, so I kept reading. Every moment between them was filled with pain and fury, and I was simply taking in what they had to say.
.
Lisa Shelby is such a beautiful writer, I can hands down say that she is the Queen of Slow Burn. My heart skipped a beat because of the way she packed each chapter with heart in such thoughtful settings. This relationship has heart, weight, and a tenderness that made me melt. You need this novel in your life if you enjoy small-town drama, a romance that develops, burns, and lives on, and rock stars who are actually kind strong women who don't take crap. I’m obsessed and I’m not even sorry about it.
May 24, 2025
Lisa Shelby's The Only Thing That's Real is a mindfulness on identity, the price of vulnerability, and the silent agony of facing our past selves and potential future selves. Although it is a stand-alone book, the third book in the Only in Goose Hollow series is rooted in a sense of common past and small-town echoes that influence every murmured concept and suppressed reality. Shelby introduces us to Knox, a guy whose popularity has allowed him to escape the agony that has been buried deep within of him. The way she lets his quiet speak for itself has a certain structural elegance.
.
Ryan Staley, the journalist tasked with documenting his final tour, is our brave FMC that the Author has really created such a fascinating personality. She does something far more radical: she listens. What makes their connection so tender-hearted and compelling is not great statements, but the gaps between them—the hesitations, shared silences, and questions left unanswered until they must be asked. The Author Lisa Shelby writes their slow burn with boundaries, precision, and the perfect amount of provocation. The emotional stakes are raised as a result of this limitation.
.
The Only Thing That's Real is a novel about having the guts to express the truths we've buried deepest. Lisa Shelby's writing is thoughtful, honest, and full of feelings She carefully designs each chapter, focusing not only on what is stated but also on what is left unsaid. There is grace, discipline, and a genuine love for her characters on every page. In an age where loudness frequently drowns out stillness, Lisa Shelby writes a book that pulses quietly but persistently with longing—and warns us that telling the truth is sometimes the most radical thing you can do, five stars are not enough for this book so I am rating it six stars, and my favourite small town read, this is perfect book for every Elsie Silver, Lucy Score and Emily Henry fans, I really LOVED this book so much!
.
Ryan Staley, the journalist tasked with documenting his final tour, is our brave FMC that the Author has really created such a fascinating personality. She does something far more radical: she listens. What makes their connection so tender-hearted and compelling is not great statements, but the gaps between them—the hesitations, shared silences, and questions left unanswered until they must be asked. The Author Lisa Shelby writes their slow burn with boundaries, precision, and the perfect amount of provocation. The emotional stakes are raised as a result of this limitation.
.
The Only Thing That's Real is a novel about having the guts to express the truths we've buried deepest. Lisa Shelby's writing is thoughtful, honest, and full of feelings She carefully designs each chapter, focusing not only on what is stated but also on what is left unsaid. There is grace, discipline, and a genuine love for her characters on every page. In an age where loudness frequently drowns out stillness, Lisa Shelby writes a book that pulses quietly but persistently with longing—and warns us that telling the truth is sometimes the most radical thing you can do, five stars are not enough for this book so I am rating it six stars, and my favourite small town read, this is perfect book for every Elsie Silver, Lucy Score and Emily Henry fans, I really LOVED this book so much!
May 24, 2025
Character, tension, and fragility are all accompanied by an emotional structure that is an essential aspect of successful romance writing and Lisa Shelby has a natural grasp of this architecture. She goes beyond just displaying a romance between a broken rock star and a diligent reporter in The Only Thing That's Real.
.
Through slow, thoughtful pacing, reflection, and meaningful conversations, she constructs it piece by piece. What follows is a work that is emotionally and structurally strong and that recognizes the importance of quiet and noisy moments, this truly was a masterpiece romance!
.
The main character, Knox, was developed using calm, his secrets are naturally built into his decisions, and the Author writes him with the kind of emotional adjustment I admire in literature. He is broken in ways that have shape, cause, and consequence, performative way that characterizes damaged-hero romances.
.
Ryan, on the contrary, is incisive; rather than attempting to save Knox, she refuses to turn away, challenging the stasis he has accepted. In addition to being romantic, their relationships are intrigued, curious, and frequently tinged with sensitivity. Discipline is necessary for that kind of tension, and the Author maintains it magnificently.
.
Shelby's writing truly impressed me as a writer who prioritizes execution over theory. Her sentence-level writing is rich and controlled, with quiet passages that are more powerful than dramatic builds. Based on the emotional logic of two individuals determining what they are permitted to want, the slow burn here is a necessary progression.
.
The Only Thing That's Real a purposefully written romantic fiction. Each chapter seems significant. Every discussion advances something. Lisa Shelby's book rewards attentive readers and makes you think, "Yes, this is how it should have happened."
.
Through slow, thoughtful pacing, reflection, and meaningful conversations, she constructs it piece by piece. What follows is a work that is emotionally and structurally strong and that recognizes the importance of quiet and noisy moments, this truly was a masterpiece romance!
.
The main character, Knox, was developed using calm, his secrets are naturally built into his decisions, and the Author writes him with the kind of emotional adjustment I admire in literature. He is broken in ways that have shape, cause, and consequence, performative way that characterizes damaged-hero romances.
.
Ryan, on the contrary, is incisive; rather than attempting to save Knox, she refuses to turn away, challenging the stasis he has accepted. In addition to being romantic, their relationships are intrigued, curious, and frequently tinged with sensitivity. Discipline is necessary for that kind of tension, and the Author maintains it magnificently.
.
Shelby's writing truly impressed me as a writer who prioritizes execution over theory. Her sentence-level writing is rich and controlled, with quiet passages that are more powerful than dramatic builds. Based on the emotional logic of two individuals determining what they are permitted to want, the slow burn here is a necessary progression.
.
The Only Thing That's Real a purposefully written romantic fiction. Each chapter seems significant. Every discussion advances something. Lisa Shelby's book rewards attentive readers and makes you think, "Yes, this is how it should have happened."
May 24, 2025
Lisa Shelby's approach to emotion in The Only Thing That's Real is breathtakingly fascinating, it's like releasing a long-held breath. Knox is a rock star, his sorrow is delicate and restricted but it roars beneath every word he says and every lyric he leaves unfinished. The Author writes him an emotional x-ray, revealing the bruises that no one applauds for. We also have our FMC Ryan, she's sharp-eyed, tireless, and tender just when Knox needs it the most. What happens between them is less of a flirtation and more of a reckoning, one that exposes memories, sorrow, and the heaviness of secrets in the most visceral way possible.
.
Shelby's work is a living thing, rigorous but lyrical, and peppered with agonizing detail that raises each chapter from adequate to outstanding. Each scene is thoughtful, never hurried, and unfolds with a structural kindness that reflects the novel's gradual burn. The author adds tension to it, like guitar strings pushed too tight. The dialogue never wastes a breath, stinging, softening, and seducing in equal measure. Knox and Ryan's chemistry boils silently beneath every conversation, shining like a candlelight that refuses to go out no matter how much the past threatens it.
.
Lisa Shelby has written something that does not shout to be noticed, but instead glows softly and confidently. The author's attention to emotional nuance, the devastating quiet between sentences, and the way Knox's wounds feel lived-in rather than performed—all speak to her control and care. The Only Thing That's Real is exactly that—true, sincere, and reckless in its truthfulness. A bold, tender-hearted love story that not only draws you in, but also anchors your heart and brain.
.
Shelby's work is a living thing, rigorous but lyrical, and peppered with agonizing detail that raises each chapter from adequate to outstanding. Each scene is thoughtful, never hurried, and unfolds with a structural kindness that reflects the novel's gradual burn. The author adds tension to it, like guitar strings pushed too tight. The dialogue never wastes a breath, stinging, softening, and seducing in equal measure. Knox and Ryan's chemistry boils silently beneath every conversation, shining like a candlelight that refuses to go out no matter how much the past threatens it.
.
Lisa Shelby has written something that does not shout to be noticed, but instead glows softly and confidently. The author's attention to emotional nuance, the devastating quiet between sentences, and the way Knox's wounds feel lived-in rather than performed—all speak to her control and care. The Only Thing That's Real is exactly that—true, sincere, and reckless in its truthfulness. A bold, tender-hearted love story that not only draws you in, but also anchors your heart and brain.
May 17, 2025
🎤 A true rockstar romance to fall in love with from beginning to end! The story takes the reader on a small emotional roller coaster ride as the pain and suffering of Knox comes out. Knox is surrounded demons that haunt him but the demons and walls strengthen as a new development comes to light. In fact, even his band mates have difficulty breaking through. The band is a family and Knox longs for what they have, wives and children, a happiness that he longs for but seems unachievable.
His world is crashing in on him until Ryan. Everything about her is inviting and Knox knows he should stay away, but he is too drawn to her. The closer they become she inevitably forces the walls to crumble and helps him build something new.
For Ryan, her past has made sure she hides behind her own carefully constructed walls of safety. Only too late, she discovers that Knox has broken down her walls as well. Even when she tries rebuilding, believing she can never be enough for him, he shows her over and over they are meant for one another. The overall protectiveness of Knox is fierce when it comes to Ryan. She has always fought for herself so having someone else in her corner is difficult. Ryan is afraid that telling Knox her truth will end everything they have created and she simply does not know if she can give him everything he desires.
I was wrapped up in this book so quickly. This is my firsts read of Lisa Shelby’s books and I am hooked. Another book for y’all to add to the TBR pile!
🎤Thank you Lisa Shelby & The Author Agency for this ARC🎤
His world is crashing in on him until Ryan. Everything about her is inviting and Knox knows he should stay away, but he is too drawn to her. The closer they become she inevitably forces the walls to crumble and helps him build something new.
For Ryan, her past has made sure she hides behind her own carefully constructed walls of safety. Only too late, she discovers that Knox has broken down her walls as well. Even when she tries rebuilding, believing she can never be enough for him, he shows her over and over they are meant for one another. The overall protectiveness of Knox is fierce when it comes to Ryan. She has always fought for herself so having someone else in her corner is difficult. Ryan is afraid that telling Knox her truth will end everything they have created and she simply does not know if she can give him everything he desires.
I was wrapped up in this book so quickly. This is my firsts read of Lisa Shelby’s books and I am hooked. Another book for y’all to add to the TBR pile!
🎤Thank you Lisa Shelby & The Author Agency for this ARC🎤
May 24, 2025
The delicate area between who we were and who we might still become is the setting for Lisa Shelby's caring, slow-burning romance. Damage—not the dramatic sort, but the kind that makes you cautious—is the topic of this book. Nevertheless, there is hope within these pages despite that pain. It's the kind of hope that settles in, silent and steady, until it's impossible to ignore. I really loved the way that the Author creates the details and connects them so naturally that the plot burns slow but very thoughtful and meaningful!
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Knox is a man who is aiming, with much effort, to keep himself together while dissolving at the edges. A rock star on his final tour is plagued by recollections of the quiet hereafter as much as the brightness of the spotlight. The intensity is never overdone in Lisa Shelby's writing; instead, it always grows just enough to shatter your heart. The reporter assigned to cover the tour, Ryan, enters his chaos with bravery and kindness. Her purpose is to see him, not to fix him. And occasionally, the most beautiful and dangerous thing of all is to be fully seen!
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Lisa Shelby's lyrically compelling prose to construct emotion into silence, location, and conversation is outstsanding. This book explores what happens when the stage lights go down and the music stops, leaving you with nothing but your reality. The Only Thing That's Real is full of the kind of beauty that results from going through a difficult time and still choosing love, and it is painfully honest and tender in its perspectives!
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Knox is a man who is aiming, with much effort, to keep himself together while dissolving at the edges. A rock star on his final tour is plagued by recollections of the quiet hereafter as much as the brightness of the spotlight. The intensity is never overdone in Lisa Shelby's writing; instead, it always grows just enough to shatter your heart. The reporter assigned to cover the tour, Ryan, enters his chaos with bravery and kindness. Her purpose is to see him, not to fix him. And occasionally, the most beautiful and dangerous thing of all is to be fully seen!
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Lisa Shelby's lyrically compelling prose to construct emotion into silence, location, and conversation is outstsanding. This book explores what happens when the stage lights go down and the music stops, leaving you with nothing but your reality. The Only Thing That's Real is full of the kind of beauty that results from going through a difficult time and still choosing love, and it is painfully honest and tender in its perspectives!
May 19, 2025
Omg where do I begin!!
I am so overly consumed by this book. The way this was written and the way I’ve felt so embezzled with these characters!!😭💗
Our MMC Knox McKinnon is a rockstar in a band with his friend from Goose Hollow. Our FMC Ryan Jameson is a journalist that goes out to interview these talented celebrities. Both of these characters are between mid to late 30s.
At first these characters are complete strangers but slowly the navigate a way to be “friends” and get to know each other better. As time progresses they unravel secrets about each other and become more comfortable they become more than friends💗
The slow burn in this story makes it WORTH IT!! You’re not only getting the feel of these characters, you’re going to see cameo appearances from the characters in the past two books, you’re going to see new characters, you’re going to FEEL these characters.
This book had me reeling in my emotions!! I was feeling happy, sad, a bit disappointed (not gonna spoil why😏) but omg it felt as my heart was being grasped at towards the end!! Knox and Ryan have this chemistry that is unlike the others and it’s worth reading how they navigate this life of theirs.
This book is genuinely my favorite one!!! 5/5 ⭐️ Thank you to Lisa for the ARC opportunity!!
Tropes:
✨Rockstar Romance
✨Strangers to Lovers
✨Forced Proximity
✨Slow Burn
✨Small Town Romance
I am so overly consumed by this book. The way this was written and the way I’ve felt so embezzled with these characters!!😭💗
Our MMC Knox McKinnon is a rockstar in a band with his friend from Goose Hollow. Our FMC Ryan Jameson is a journalist that goes out to interview these talented celebrities. Both of these characters are between mid to late 30s.
At first these characters are complete strangers but slowly the navigate a way to be “friends” and get to know each other better. As time progresses they unravel secrets about each other and become more comfortable they become more than friends💗
The slow burn in this story makes it WORTH IT!! You’re not only getting the feel of these characters, you’re going to see cameo appearances from the characters in the past two books, you’re going to see new characters, you’re going to FEEL these characters.
This book had me reeling in my emotions!! I was feeling happy, sad, a bit disappointed (not gonna spoil why😏) but omg it felt as my heart was being grasped at towards the end!! Knox and Ryan have this chemistry that is unlike the others and it’s worth reading how they navigate this life of theirs.
This book is genuinely my favorite one!!! 5/5 ⭐️ Thank you to Lisa for the ARC opportunity!!
Tropes:
✨Rockstar Romance
✨Strangers to Lovers
✨Forced Proximity
✨Slow Burn
✨Small Town Romance
May 26, 2025
Five stars!
The only thing that’s real
by Lisa Shelby
When the biggest band around, decides that they are calling it quits and suddenly retiring the media has to get the scoop for Knox McKinnon, and his band Hollow Knox. It’s time to take a much-needed break. Tour life has drastically changed  from what the band used to do in their party days. To now with almost all of the band members having kids and family everyone except Knox. This tour is to end all Tours and they have to have media on board media in the name of Ryan Stanley. Ryan Stanley was hand-picked to be the exclusive journalist on this trip. (kind of an almost famous style.) Ryan Stanley has a huge challenge on her hands. How is she supposed to document the Tours dynamics and band thought process when the singer refuses to speak to her for some unknown reason since the moment Knox and Ryan met he has been standoffish and rude, refusing to speak to her. The rest of the band and their families are wonderful, kind, and inclusive beside him. The gorgeous grumpy singer who is fully mysterious and heart-achingly unavailable is who she is contractually obligated to work with for her article.
ARC Book Review.
This book was fantastic for me. It was super emotional because I struggled with some of the things that Ryan struggled with in the book and it really felt honest and genuine. I loved that the small-town romance became a rock ‘n’ roll story and then back to a small town I think Lisa is doing a great job at creating a really unique world of characters. She is creating valuable, diverse family dynamics that are just so refreshing to read. This so far has been my favorite of the Goose Hollow series. The playlist  included at the beginning of this book has also been my favorite by far!
The only thing that’s real
by Lisa Shelby
When the biggest band around, decides that they are calling it quits and suddenly retiring the media has to get the scoop for Knox McKinnon, and his band Hollow Knox. It’s time to take a much-needed break. Tour life has drastically changed  from what the band used to do in their party days. To now with almost all of the band members having kids and family everyone except Knox. This tour is to end all Tours and they have to have media on board media in the name of Ryan Stanley. Ryan Stanley was hand-picked to be the exclusive journalist on this trip. (kind of an almost famous style.) Ryan Stanley has a huge challenge on her hands. How is she supposed to document the Tours dynamics and band thought process when the singer refuses to speak to her for some unknown reason since the moment Knox and Ryan met he has been standoffish and rude, refusing to speak to her. The rest of the band and their families are wonderful, kind, and inclusive beside him. The gorgeous grumpy singer who is fully mysterious and heart-achingly unavailable is who she is contractually obligated to work with for her article.
ARC Book Review.
This book was fantastic for me. It was super emotional because I struggled with some of the things that Ryan struggled with in the book and it really felt honest and genuine. I loved that the small-town romance became a rock ‘n’ roll story and then back to a small town I think Lisa is doing a great job at creating a really unique world of characters. She is creating valuable, diverse family dynamics that are just so refreshing to read. This so far has been my favorite of the Goose Hollow series. The playlist  included at the beginning of this book has also been my favorite by far!
May 21, 2025
This strangers to lovers, forced proximity, slow burn, small town, rockstar romance is an emotional ride that delivers passion, heat and a whole lot of heart.
Knox is the lead singer, with lots of secrets and Ryan is the journalist who is writing an article about the band. He’s not keen in being interviewed by her as he wants to keep his secrets well hidden. They slowly build a friendship and their chemistry is undeniable. They grow and become comfortable with one another and share more about their pasts and the stories that shaped their lives.
This is the third book in the ‘Only in Goose Hollow’ series and it’s truly a fabulous read. We saw a bit of Knox in the previous book, and this book will blow all your pre conceived ideas about him out of the water. But you don’t need to have read the previous books to enjoy this one , although I do recommend you circle back and read them because they are great reads. I’ve really enjoyed the emotional journey this series has taken me on, and can’t wait for the next instalment.
Thank you @lisashelbybooks and @theauthor.agency for the e-ARC of the is book. Knox and Ryan made my heart ache then warmed and soothed it all back again.
4.25 stars
Knox is the lead singer, with lots of secrets and Ryan is the journalist who is writing an article about the band. He’s not keen in being interviewed by her as he wants to keep his secrets well hidden. They slowly build a friendship and their chemistry is undeniable. They grow and become comfortable with one another and share more about their pasts and the stories that shaped their lives.
This is the third book in the ‘Only in Goose Hollow’ series and it’s truly a fabulous read. We saw a bit of Knox in the previous book, and this book will blow all your pre conceived ideas about him out of the water. But you don’t need to have read the previous books to enjoy this one , although I do recommend you circle back and read them because they are great reads. I’ve really enjoyed the emotional journey this series has taken me on, and can’t wait for the next instalment.
Thank you @lisashelbybooks and @theauthor.agency for the e-ARC of the is book. Knox and Ryan made my heart ache then warmed and soothed it all back again.
4.25 stars
May 21, 2025
I was so happy to return to Goose Hollow. The previous book in this series was one of very few that had a plot twist that I was not expecting. I loved seeing the aftermath of that plot twist in Knox’s story.
Knox has spent many years on the road with his band and doing everything he can to avoid going home. His world was rocked to the core when a shocking secret was revealed. Now, he has Ryan Staley traveling with them while documenting their farewell tour. He couldn’t afford to let her get too close. Otherwise the whole world will know about the mountain of shame he lived on.
Knox really surprised me with his story. I feel like we got to see so many layers get peeled back in each chapter. He tried everything he could to not let anyone know about his greatest shame. He created this persona on stage that was not at all who he was. His world was rocked in a major way. I honestly couldn’t blame him for his reaction. I really did admire the way he stepped up even though he was terrified.
Ryan was really the perfect person for Knox. She took the time to get to know him at his pace. She stood by him unfailingly when she learned his secret. He was able to drop that persona with her. This series has been so amazing and I seriously cannot wait to return!
Knox has spent many years on the road with his band and doing everything he can to avoid going home. His world was rocked to the core when a shocking secret was revealed. Now, he has Ryan Staley traveling with them while documenting their farewell tour. He couldn’t afford to let her get too close. Otherwise the whole world will know about the mountain of shame he lived on.
Knox really surprised me with his story. I feel like we got to see so many layers get peeled back in each chapter. He tried everything he could to not let anyone know about his greatest shame. He created this persona on stage that was not at all who he was. His world was rocked in a major way. I honestly couldn’t blame him for his reaction. I really did admire the way he stepped up even though he was terrified.
Ryan was really the perfect person for Knox. She took the time to get to know him at his pace. She stood by him unfailingly when she learned his secret. He was able to drop that persona with her. This series has been so amazing and I seriously cannot wait to return!
May 20, 2025
Oh Knox, you sweetheart, come here because I just want to give you a hug!
Lisa did it again. The Only Thing That’s Real is yet another banger in this series.
It’s such a sweet read with real characters. 🥰
Knox is a tortured soul, and the last thing he needs as the lead singer of his band is to be surrounded by an attractive journalist.
Oh well, too bad. Ryan is there to stay.
Our man fell so hard for Ryan, and I get it because she’s a sweetheart too.
And his thoughts… my poor heart melted so hard while reading his thoughts…
There’s just something so special about a man falling hard. 🫠
The only thing I liked less was all the criticism Mia got for her decisions throughout the book. I mean, up until a certain point, I get it. But I love Mia (and Gus) SO MUCH, I couldn’t help but feel bad for them. 😔
There are so many special moments in this book that I can’t say anything else than please go read it!
The only thing that’s real gets 4.5⭐ and 2🌶️.
✨ Rockstar Romance
✨ Tortured MMC
✨ Small Town
✨ Slow Burn
✨ He Falls First & Hard
✨ 1st Person / Dual POV
Lisa did it again. The Only Thing That’s Real is yet another banger in this series.
It’s such a sweet read with real characters. 🥰
Knox is a tortured soul, and the last thing he needs as the lead singer of his band is to be surrounded by an attractive journalist.
Oh well, too bad. Ryan is there to stay.
Our man fell so hard for Ryan, and I get it because she’s a sweetheart too.
And his thoughts… my poor heart melted so hard while reading his thoughts…
There’s just something so special about a man falling hard. 🫠
The only thing I liked less was all the criticism Mia got for her decisions throughout the book. I mean, up until a certain point, I get it. But I love Mia (and Gus) SO MUCH, I couldn’t help but feel bad for them. 😔
There are so many special moments in this book that I can’t say anything else than please go read it!
The only thing that’s real gets 4.5⭐ and 2🌶️.
✨ Rockstar Romance
✨ Tortured MMC
✨ Small Town
✨ Slow Burn
✨ He Falls First & Hard
✨ 1st Person / Dual POV
May 20, 2025
Buckle up for an emotional ride between two amazing MC’s. Although they don’t think they are amazing, far from it, because each have their own issues holding them back.
The story of Knox and Ryan was my first rockstar romance. It didn’t disappoint. The writing of Lisa Shelby made this a page turner. I stayed up all night to reach the end.
Knox, the rockstar, has demons which plague him. He is infamous for keeping people at a distance, even the people he considers family, his band mates. He desires a wife and family, but he feels having it is unachievable.
Ryan, the reporter, believes she is never enough. She has had to always fight for herself. She has never had anyone tell her she is enough or put her first.
These two heal each other. She helps him lower his high walls and he shows her how special she truly is….
I’m a spoiler free reviewer so I think 🤔 I’ve written enough. This needs to be in your TBR. This is coming from someone who has avoided rockstar romance. 🫢😉
I appreciate the opportunity from Lisa Shelby and The Agency for an opportunity to read this book early.
The story of Knox and Ryan was my first rockstar romance. It didn’t disappoint. The writing of Lisa Shelby made this a page turner. I stayed up all night to reach the end.
Knox, the rockstar, has demons which plague him. He is infamous for keeping people at a distance, even the people he considers family, his band mates. He desires a wife and family, but he feels having it is unachievable.
Ryan, the reporter, believes she is never enough. She has had to always fight for herself. She has never had anyone tell her she is enough or put her first.
These two heal each other. She helps him lower his high walls and he shows her how special she truly is….
I’m a spoiler free reviewer so I think 🤔 I’ve written enough. This needs to be in your TBR. This is coming from someone who has avoided rockstar romance. 🫢😉
I appreciate the opportunity from Lisa Shelby and The Agency for an opportunity to read this book early.
May 20, 2025
4.5 stars
This was compulsive reading. Knox, lead singer of the Hollow Knocks, feels strongly that there are key things missing from his life, is shut down and moody, when he should be riding high, surrounded by some of the people he loves most in this world. But life is never straightforward, is it? Enter Ryan. Clever, successful journalist chosen by all in the band to chronicle their final tour and bam! Knox experiences a shift in 5he force. Ah, but fellow readers, he's not about to admit it! Instead, he ratchets up the moodiness!
The intensity between Ryan and Knox is off the charts, making this read an intense one, especially while their attraction is mired in denial and a lack of real communication and as truths emerge. I loved this band of brothers, wives, and offspring. The importance of family is central to all their lives. The process to an HEA for more than our central characters makes this a deeper story, and, I have to admit, I was reluctant to leave these guys at the end of the book
💖💖💖💖
This was compulsive reading. Knox, lead singer of the Hollow Knocks, feels strongly that there are key things missing from his life, is shut down and moody, when he should be riding high, surrounded by some of the people he loves most in this world. But life is never straightforward, is it? Enter Ryan. Clever, successful journalist chosen by all in the band to chronicle their final tour and bam! Knox experiences a shift in 5he force. Ah, but fellow readers, he's not about to admit it! Instead, he ratchets up the moodiness!
The intensity between Ryan and Knox is off the charts, making this read an intense one, especially while their attraction is mired in denial and a lack of real communication and as truths emerge. I loved this band of brothers, wives, and offspring. The importance of family is central to all their lives. The process to an HEA for more than our central characters makes this a deeper story, and, I have to admit, I was reluctant to leave these guys at the end of the book
💖💖💖💖
May 21, 2025
This book!! It’s all the things!! This is the third book in the series but the second one I read for the series and this author. I loved the previous book and I was excited that this book would tell us more about the infamous lead singer Knox.
Ryan Staley is hired to follow the band Hollow Knocks and help document their farewell tour. But Knox isn’t in the best place personally and it’s affecting the band. So when Ryan walks in knocks his socks off (no pun intended) all he can think about is how to get her gone and quick. Eventually he starts to let down his walls, but when he finds out she’s not only from his hometown but also friends with his sister he’s once again skeptical of her motives. Ryan is dealign with her own issues, her family is terrible, mostly her father, and her closest relative, her grandfather, needs care. So she is determined not to let Knox deter her from doing her job. What starts as an attraction turns into much more and the way everything unfolds is a joy to read. Loved Knox and Ryan and so glad that Knox got his redemption story.
Ryan Staley is hired to follow the band Hollow Knocks and help document their farewell tour. But Knox isn’t in the best place personally and it’s affecting the band. So when Ryan walks in knocks his socks off (no pun intended) all he can think about is how to get her gone and quick. Eventually he starts to let down his walls, but when he finds out she’s not only from his hometown but also friends with his sister he’s once again skeptical of her motives. Ryan is dealign with her own issues, her family is terrible, mostly her father, and her closest relative, her grandfather, needs care. So she is determined not to let Knox deter her from doing her job. What starts as an attraction turns into much more and the way everything unfolds is a joy to read. Loved Knox and Ryan and so glad that Knox got his redemption story.
May 10, 2025
Having met Knox in the previous two books, I wasn’t sure how the author was going to be able to make me love him.
As he was such a typical ‘rockstar’ drinking, partying and never really been around for his family.
But let me tell you. I fell in love with him, with the side of him he kept so closely and never letting anyone in. I’m not a 100% sure I’m on board with him taking a backseat to being a dad to his son because he wanted a family long before he found out about his kid. In the previous book I was like ‘yeah, he doesn’t deserve it’ but in this book I actually felt so sorry for him. I know it’s a bit of a weird dynamic but still.
I loved how Ryan supported him fully with his decisions, I just wish we could’ve had more from them, the end seemed to come too quickly!
Ryan’s dad though. I wish Ryan got more of a ‘fuck you’ towards him. I need an extended epilogue, a Christmas novella, another series with the McKinnon family. I don’t want to leave goose hollow.
As he was such a typical ‘rockstar’ drinking, partying and never really been around for his family.
But let me tell you. I fell in love with him, with the side of him he kept so closely and never letting anyone in. I’m not a 100% sure I’m on board with him taking a backseat to being a dad to his son because he wanted a family long before he found out about his kid. In the previous book I was like ‘yeah, he doesn’t deserve it’ but in this book I actually felt so sorry for him. I know it’s a bit of a weird dynamic but still.
I loved how Ryan supported him fully with his decisions, I just wish we could’ve had more from them, the end seemed to come too quickly!
Ryan’s dad though. I wish Ryan got more of a ‘fuck you’ towards him. I need an extended epilogue, a Christmas novella, another series with the McKinnon family. I don’t want to leave goose hollow.
May 15, 2025
The Only Thing That’s Real is lead singer Knox and journalist Ryan’s entertaining and at times emotional story. It’s book three in the Only in Goose Hollow Series and it captivated me from the first chapter to the last page.
Ryan is touring with Hollow Knocks looking for a story on the band of brothers and the last thing she needs is to fall hard and fast for the lead singer……
Knox knew from the moment he set eyes on Ryan he was a gonna but she has secrets and past she wants to hide and messing with a singer in the public eye is not in her plans. Problem is we can’t always control what our hearts want and it seems their hearts want each other.
So can Ryan and Knox get over the traumas from their pasts and will they become stronger together.
The chemistry is sizzling, the characters are easy to love and the story is well written.
Ryan is touring with Hollow Knocks looking for a story on the band of brothers and the last thing she needs is to fall hard and fast for the lead singer……
Knox knew from the moment he set eyes on Ryan he was a gonna but she has secrets and past she wants to hide and messing with a singer in the public eye is not in her plans. Problem is we can’t always control what our hearts want and it seems their hearts want each other.
So can Ryan and Knox get over the traumas from their pasts and will they become stronger together.
The chemistry is sizzling, the characters are easy to love and the story is well written.
May 22, 2025
This book was so good! It has heat, rock stars, family issues and all the love in the world. I absolutely adored reading this book!!
When this book starts, Knox is struggling and lashing out, especially when it comes to Ryan being brought on board for their final tour. Once he gets to know her, things quickly change and these are inseparable. They find out that they are from the same small town and just help balance each other out. They just get each other. Ryan is an amazing character! She's brings the light that Knox needs in his life. She helps him see what's important in life. Makes him realize how good he has it and how much he needs the simple life.
These two go on a journey and come out so much stronger in the end! This was such a perfect way to end their final tour. Knox got everything he wanted and so much healing was had in this book.
When this book starts, Knox is struggling and lashing out, especially when it comes to Ryan being brought on board for their final tour. Once he gets to know her, things quickly change and these are inseparable. They find out that they are from the same small town and just help balance each other out. They just get each other. Ryan is an amazing character! She's brings the light that Knox needs in his life. She helps him see what's important in life. Makes him realize how good he has it and how much he needs the simple life.
These two go on a journey and come out so much stronger in the end! This was such a perfect way to end their final tour. Knox got everything he wanted and so much healing was had in this book.
May 23, 2025
This was the third book of the series, it can be read as a standalone but is part of an interconnected series. A rockstar who’s on his last tour with his band/best friends. He has many secrets that he’s kept from them which leaves him angry and somewhat hard to be around. He has some internal mind struggles which causes him to immediately push away the new journalist who will be traveling with them for the remainder of the show. Ryan, our FMC takes a job with her home town band as their journalist. She meets the lead singer who immediately wants nothing to do with her for reasons she has no idea about. Their relationship quickly turns into something more and once they start actually speaking and learning more about each other it’s fun to see. There’s many more things that happen as well as secrets finally coming out! This was definitely a fun read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2025
Knox and Ryan will make even the most jaded believe in love. I was completely entranced by their journey and all the emotions that were felt along the way.
A damaged rockstar whose secrets are coming out, and a journalist who's always felt she's not enough collide in this emotional slow burn romance. When the walls they've both constructed are obliterated as they get to know one another, you will fell like your going on the ride to forever with them.
This was one of my favorite slow burns because the build up to their moment made it so worth the wait.
I've been a huge fan of this series and the found family we've gotten to know throughout this series. I'm looking forward to what's next from Lisa Shelby.
A damaged rockstar whose secrets are coming out, and a journalist who's always felt she's not enough collide in this emotional slow burn romance. When the walls they've both constructed are obliterated as they get to know one another, you will fell like your going on the ride to forever with them.
This was one of my favorite slow burns because the build up to their moment made it so worth the wait.
I've been a huge fan of this series and the found family we've gotten to know throughout this series. I'm looking forward to what's next from Lisa Shelby.
May 25, 2025
My first time reading from the Only in Goose Hollow series, and now I want to start from book one.
Knox McKinnon is a famous rockstar, but behind the success, he is struggling. He keeps people at a distance, even his bandmates, hiding his pain behind his music. Ryan Staley is a journalist assigned to follow his band on their final tour. She is independent and strong, but she carries her own wounds.
At first, Knox and Ryan keep their distance, but slowly, they start to connect. Their relationship is slow burn, full of tension.
This book had romance, healing and emotions.
I loved how real the characters felt. They had flaws, fears, and complicated pasts, but that made them even more relatable. Their journey was full of ups and downs, but every moment was meaningful.
Knox McKinnon is a famous rockstar, but behind the success, he is struggling. He keeps people at a distance, even his bandmates, hiding his pain behind his music. Ryan Staley is a journalist assigned to follow his band on their final tour. She is independent and strong, but she carries her own wounds.
At first, Knox and Ryan keep their distance, but slowly, they start to connect. Their relationship is slow burn, full of tension.
This book had romance, healing and emotions.
I loved how real the characters felt. They had flaws, fears, and complicated pasts, but that made them even more relatable. Their journey was full of ups and downs, but every moment was meaningful.
May 20, 2025
I’m clearly in my rockstar romance era 🥰
Knox is the lead singer of a famous band with his best friend. Dealing with a recent traumatic situation in his life, he is totally against having Ryan, a female journalist, follow the band on the last leg of their tour. Even though, there’s an instant connection. Ryan, trying to maintain her professionalism, while also trying to gain Knox’s acceptance, can’t fight the attraction she has for him. I liked this slow burn romance, although at times, know was way too hot and cold in the beginning. All in all i loved the angst and lead up, and I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of this series!
🎸 rockstar romance | enemies to lovers | slow burn
Knox is the lead singer of a famous band with his best friend. Dealing with a recent traumatic situation in his life, he is totally against having Ryan, a female journalist, follow the band on the last leg of their tour. Even though, there’s an instant connection. Ryan, trying to maintain her professionalism, while also trying to gain Knox’s acceptance, can’t fight the attraction she has for him. I liked this slow burn romance, although at times, know was way too hot and cold in the beginning. All in all i loved the angst and lead up, and I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of this series!
🎸 rockstar romance | enemies to lovers | slow burn
May 22, 2025
The Only Thing That’s Real by Lisa Shelby
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
What to expect
🔥Rockstar romance
🔥Forced proximity
🔥Enemies to lovers
🔥Opposite’s attract
🔥Moody rockstar with secrets
🔥Sassy heroine who takes no sh*t
🔥Single parent
🔥Found family
What a brilliant story, I think Knox is my favourite brother. His story is so raw and emotional, filled with angst and self loathing. But his redemption so worth it all.
Knox and Ryan are perfect for each other and I loved her sassy attitude of taking no sh*t from anyone let alone a rockstar.
I absolutely loved reading this book and I highly recommend reading it too.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
What to expect
🔥Rockstar romance
🔥Forced proximity
🔥Enemies to lovers
🔥Opposite’s attract
🔥Moody rockstar with secrets
🔥Sassy heroine who takes no sh*t
🔥Single parent
🔥Found family
What a brilliant story, I think Knox is my favourite brother. His story is so raw and emotional, filled with angst and self loathing. But his redemption so worth it all.
Knox and Ryan are perfect for each other and I loved her sassy attitude of taking no sh*t from anyone let alone a rockstar.
I absolutely loved reading this book and I highly recommend reading it too.
May 24, 2025
Knox is a man with secrets so the last thing he wants is for Ryan, a reporter, to be part of the tour with his band. He believes the best thing to do is keep his distance however the feelings he has for are both unexpected and unwanted.
Ryan is dealing with her own difficulties that she chooses to remain hidden. The only problem is that the more she learns about Knox the more she wants to share with him but she also fears that if he truly knows her it will end what has been developing between them.
Both Ryan and Knox are dealing with some tumultuous situations that take us on an emotion filled journey as they learn what love and trust really means.
Ryan is dealing with her own difficulties that she chooses to remain hidden. The only problem is that the more she learns about Knox the more she wants to share with him but she also fears that if he truly knows her it will end what has been developing between them.
Both Ryan and Knox are dealing with some tumultuous situations that take us on an emotion filled journey as they learn what love and trust really means.
May 24, 2025
I think I found one of my new favorite authors!
Lisa Shelby has such a powerful way of writing emotion, and The Only Thing That’s Real is no exception.
As a member of the ARC Team, I was drawn into the raw honesty of the characters and their journey from the very beginning. There’s something deeply authentic about the way love and pain are explored in this story—it’s vulnerable and beautiful all at once.
The romance is intense yet healing, and the characters’ connection feels very real.
A poignant read about rediscovery, second chances, and the kind of love that endures even when everything else falls apart.
I highly recommend this wonderful book! ���
Lisa Shelby has such a powerful way of writing emotion, and The Only Thing That’s Real is no exception.
As a member of the ARC Team, I was drawn into the raw honesty of the characters and their journey from the very beginning. There’s something deeply authentic about the way love and pain are explored in this story—it’s vulnerable and beautiful all at once.
The romance is intense yet healing, and the characters’ connection feels very real.
A poignant read about rediscovery, second chances, and the kind of love that endures even when everything else falls apart.
I highly recommend this wonderful book! ���
May 30, 2025
MMC Knox is a rock star. His world famous band is retiring because all the other band members have partners and families that they want to be home with, except Knox. FMC Ryan is a journalist chosen to travel with the band and document the last few months of their farewell tour. Knox and Ryan are both from the same small town, Goose Hollow. Knox has trouble opening up and sharing his real story, thoughts, and feelings. Knox is also hiding her own secrets. Knox and Ryan fight their attraction but to get to the healing part, they have a lot of confessions, problems, etc., to get through. This book was emotionally deep, but moments of happiness were woven in so it didn’t feel too heavy.
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