Jenny Gentry has everything she thought she wanted—fame, success, and a little boy who’s her whole world. But behind the lights and the music, she’s still haunted by the man she could never forget. The one who never knew about their son.
Evan Black is done running—from the drugs, the darkness, and the wreckage he left behind. Getting clean was the hardest thing he’s ever done—until the day he sees Jenny again. Now, as fellow judges on the hit reality show *Singing Sensation*, he’s faced with the one person who can unravel his hard-won peace.
He doesn’t expect forgiveness. He just wants to make things right. But Jenny has spent years keeping their past buried to protect her child—and herself. When the truth finally comes to light, both must face what’s been waiting in the shadows.
As the cameras roll and old wounds resurface, Jenny and Evan will have to decide whether love—no matter how broken—can survive its encore.
A tender, redemptive second-chance rock star romance about forgiveness, family, and finding the courage to heal. Every Thought delivers heart, hope, and harmony as two broken souls face the truth—and discover that love deserves its encore.
Sally O'Keef was born in Canada, but moved to the US when she was a wee babe.
She's been married to the love of her life for fifteen years, and has six wonderful children and a huge dog who snores in the background as she writes.
When she's not writing, she loves reading, volleyball, and watching her children achieve their dreams.
"Through every scar, through every fight, You're the calm that brings me light. I lost myself, but now I see, I'm exactly where I'm meant to be." If you’re tired of the run-of-the-mill, trending romance books being churned out month after month….. then Every Thought should be your next read. Put this one on your TBR right now! Did you do it yet? Okay, okay, just checking!
This story feels real and raw—the complete opposite of sloppy or surface-level storytelling. Sally O’Keef takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, delivering gut-wrenching love and perfectly written pining (my personal favorite) alongside heartbreak and the fear of not being able to trust someone you care about. 💔 This book explores complicated family relationships in a way that feels authentic. Beyond the storyline that holds your attention from beginning to end and the realistic/well-developed characters, the writing itself is standout. I personally really appreciate how the word choices feel intentional and fresh.
What really sets this book apart is its unflinching ability to break your heart and then put it back together. The portrayal of drug addiction was handled with such realism and care. It’s clear extensive research went into making it believable and impactful. At the same time, readers get a glimpse into the glitz and glamour of show business—balanced by an honest look at the darker side behind the scenes (including body image/disordered eating). With the wide range of personalities, characters, and struggles, anyone reading would be able to recognize a part of themselves within. Some books are windows that let us see other perspectives or ways of life. Others are mirrors that show us a reflection of ourselves. Every Thought is both in the best way.
Although this is the second book in the series (Every Breath comes first), it can stand on its own. That being said, readers of book #1 will recognize familiar faces.
The ending leaves just enough open to suggest a third book—and I, for one, am completely here for it. 👀
Okay, now to get into the book FOR REAL!!! Obviously, there will be spoilers, so avoid those if you haven’t finished the book yet. Please also be aware that my writing will also significantly roll downhill as I lose myself in the full review and forget all semblance of the English language and grammar rules. I received an advanced copy of the book, and this is my honest opinion.
Every Thought @books_by_sally ★★★★★ 🫑 Closed door 🤬 Mild & infrequent
This bookkkkk yall! Every Thought follows Jenny and Evan who are both famous musicians. Six years ago she broke his heart and he had no idea why she walked away. Evan stumbled in to addiction and his life continued to snowball after Jenny left. Now, six years later and 1 year sober, they are unexpectedly thrust together again to be guest judges for a reality singing competition. And Jenny has secrets. As someone with a very close loved one that is a recovering addict, I think Sally did a beautiful job writing the struggle that comes with trying to claw yourself out of addiction and stay sober. This was an emotional one for me and it seriously brought all the feels!
Rockstar Romance Second Chance American idol vibes Secrets Redemption and healing
This charming, clean romance is all about facing your past and growing from it. The characters are strong and easy to connect with. The story was so emotional that it felt like it deserved its own soundtrack. It’s a total page-turner that’s hard to put down and a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to change your future. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a unique love story to get lost in. I loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Every Thought is an authentic, compelling second-chance romance between two stars in the music industry. When Jenny and Evan are reunited it takes no time at all for sparks to fly—verbal and chemical. Evan is recovering from drug abuse and neither of them know if they can trust him. They must work together in the public eye on a reality singing competition.
There are secrets, drama, pain, and anger, but none of it is overdone, and the lighthearted moments counterbalance the heavy. @Sally masterfully weaves through the story themes of self-worth, hope, motherhood, forgiveness, body image, and beauty from ashes.
I loved being a part of their music writing sessions. I loved the relationship between Evan and Axl. I loved all the music references and culture. It’s a beautiful story.
This is hands down the BEST second chance story I have ever read!!
Not only is it a Second Chance romance, but a second chance at life, in so many deep and personal ways. From drug and gambling addictions, to the need to find independence, freedom and stability, even when you think you're doing what's best.
The love story is deep and raw and vulnerable. The plotting is tight and ripe with drama. And the characters make you feel like you're right in the front seat with them.
I've heard people say that there are books you just read to enjoy, books you even read to escape into, but every once in a while there comes a book that both heals and changes parts of a broken soul. And that's exactly the kind of book that Every Thought is. Powerful in its healing depths. I can't express how much I truly loved this book or what it really means.
I love reading autobiographies about singers so this fictional story was right up my alley. A look behind the scenes (even a fictional one) is fun to peek at and I seriously just what to know what comes next for them. I can see the next story being about Colby and Maisey. And in that story I bet I will get a peek at the continuation of Dylan’s story and Jenny’s story. Thanks for writing such a fun and heartfelt story Sally! Keep the saga going.
Every Thought by Sally O’Keefe is a breathtaking second-chance romance that hits every high note. (See what I did there 😉)
We follow Jenny Gentry, a successful star protecting her son and her heart, and Evan Black, a man returning from the brink of addiction to make amends. Set against the high-stakes backdrop of a reality singing competition, their reunion is less about the glitz of the stage and more about the grit of the soul.
As someone who has read hundreds of books, I don't say this lightly: this story is a rare gem. For many, reading is an escape…for me, it has been a lifeline during my diagnosis and treatment of PAH.There are many books that have offered a temporary escape from reality, but Every Thought.. it reached into my soul and mended pieces I didn't realize were still broken.
As someone in recovery, I am often wary of how addiction is portrayed in fiction. Sally O’Keefe nails it. (The same with Foster Care and Adoption by the way) Evan’s journey isn't romanticized..it’s gritty, honest, and painfully real. It captures the exhausting work of staying clean and the weight of seeking forgiveness when you don’t believe you’re worth it because of where you come from.
The "secret baby" trope can sometimes feel like a plot device, but here, it was an exploration of protection and sacrifice. Jenny’s fear and Evan’s redemption arc are intertwined with so much heart. This book was so hard to put down and I didn’t want it to end. I’m excited to read Sally’s other books next.
This isn't just a rock star romance!
It’s a story about the courage it takes to heal. If you want a story that delivers love, hope, and an authentic look at recovery, this is the one.
Ahhhh…the second book that I’ve been waiting (not so) patiently for! Jenny and Evan’s story did not disappoint! In this story we see Jenny succeeding at her career and killing it at motherhood, while second guessing herself with all the pressure that comes from Hollywood. Enter: Evan. Who is ready to make the amends he needs to and get it together for those that love him.
This was a wonderful second chance romance and just like the first book, really digs deep and takes some turns that hit you right in the feels.
If you read the first one, you know how talented this author is and if you haven’t then you should add two books to your TBR. Like right now. 🩵
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
100% recommend this book! Sally is an amazing author who captivated me as a reader through such a thought provoking, all-emotion evoking, and inspiring story.
As a mental health therapist who has worked with many people facing addiction or other life struggles the characters in this book face, I connected greatly with this story- Sally did a phenomenal job of portraying addiction and these challenges in such a raw vulnerable and a way that so many of us can connect/relate with. This book had me hooked as well as inspired me to evaluate forgiveness, change, and second chances in my own life and relationships. It inspired me to love and fight for relationships in a deeper more meaningful way. Highly recommend and will continue to read any books Sally publishes!!!
I wish I had more stars to give this book! Sally does a phenomenal job of developing her characters into people who the reader suddenly becomes inextricably invested in. I felt the entire range of human emotions as I read. Sally effortlessly connects her reader to the characters and I found myself turning back to read the book every spare moment I had! I couldn’t help but root for them—the line between reality and fiction blurred as I read. The ending was so satisfying for me! I realized I was smiling from ear to ear like a silly dog, so happy for these fictional characters I had grown so close to! I can’t wait to read more from Sally O’Keef!
I have read "Every Breath, " the first book in this series, and loved it. But, I did not expect what I got in "Every Thought." It had more depth; it brought you into the lives of Jenny and Evan. It had you feeling their feelings - being frustrated, being scared, being stubborn.... It felt like they were actual people - not a fairytale love story. Don't get me wrong - I love romance. But this was real, down to earth, it had substance. Keep writing your books, Sally O'Keef - and I'll keep reading them!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My honest ARC review: This book made me laugh out loud, cry both sad and happy tears and gasp numerous times. I loved Jenny and Evan's journey as they fought for love and for each other. This book dealt with hard themes like losing a parent, addiction, betrayal, and toxic environments in such an open and healthy way. The main characters were flawed and imperfect which made them feel real. I really enjoyed my experience reading this book and it will definitely not be the last Sally O'Keefe book I read.
Watch out Colleen Hoover, Sally O'Keef books are here to stay. From page one you are rooting for her characters to succeed through their personal journeys. The lyrical genius of dialog and character building get you hooked early. If you start this book be ready to tuck in for a late reading night. You won't want to put it down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This page turning, whirlwind romance had me in tears and couldn't put the book down! One of the best redemption books I have read in a long time. I love how relatable the characters are, paired with a storyline that is swift and doesn't disappoint, I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I may have neglected the rest of my life while I read this book. I could not put it down. I laughed out loud, much to my husband’s annoyance, I cried. The research that went into this story was phenomenal. Sally really outdid herself this time. I loved the last book, Every Breath, this one is even better! I should add this is Sarah leaving a review, not Brad.
I loved this second chance romance. I just felt like it was missing something to make me believe in the storyline. The character of Evan black did not seem like a rock star addicted to drugs. I found myself not believing it.
No matter your age, this book will melt your heart and help you see what true love is meant to be. Full of redemption, forgiveness, and just the right amount of swooning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.