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The Lie of Having It All
A small-town forbidden romance between a grumpy publicist and his sunshine, pop-star client that can be read as a standalone or as part of an interconnected romance series!
What to expect:
-A fun, spicy, standalone rom com
-Grumpy sunshine vibes and banter
-A pop star lying low in a small town
-A grumpy publicist looking for peace and quiet
-Allllll the delicious spice (our MMC Leo is the king of talking dirty)
-Found family vibes
From a young age, child star-turned pop star Willa Stone knew “having it all” was a myth. The truth is, at some point, you have to choose what you really want in life: a career or a love life, fame or friends, success or peace. Knowing her true purpose in life is to create music and perform, she’s long accepted that her life would always be on display, and every moment would revolve around building the brand. Even her relationships are manufactured, a lifetime of fake PR relationships in order to build interest in her next album.
When she’s instructed to hide from the limelight for a while, she isn’t sure what to do with herself. That is, until she stumbles into Holly Ridge. There, she starts daydreaming about finding balance and, for the first time in her life, having it all.
After a health scare made him realize he was living for nothing but his job, Leo Sinclaire is out to find balance in his life. This starts with buying a rundown house, connecting with the roots he’s ignored since becoming a cutthroat publicist to some of the world's biggest stars, and, most importantly, being alone.
Unfortunately, he quickly finds that if he wants to be alone, Holly Ridge is the wrong choice. That peaceful existence completely evaporates when he discovers his biggest client—and biggest headache—has the same small town as her place to hide away. He spends time trying to keep her in line, both for his job and his sanity, but after a while, old feelings start to surface, and even though dating a client is strictly forbidden, he can’t seem to stop thinking about her.
What happens when those thoughts turn into trying to figure out if they can have it all, together?
What to expect:
-A fun, spicy, standalone rom com
-Grumpy sunshine vibes and banter
-A pop star lying low in a small town
-A grumpy publicist looking for peace and quiet
-Allllll the delicious spice (our MMC Leo is the king of talking dirty)
-Found family vibes
From a young age, child star-turned pop star Willa Stone knew “having it all” was a myth. The truth is, at some point, you have to choose what you really want in life: a career or a love life, fame or friends, success or peace. Knowing her true purpose in life is to create music and perform, she’s long accepted that her life would always be on display, and every moment would revolve around building the brand. Even her relationships are manufactured, a lifetime of fake PR relationships in order to build interest in her next album.
When she’s instructed to hide from the limelight for a while, she isn’t sure what to do with herself. That is, until she stumbles into Holly Ridge. There, she starts daydreaming about finding balance and, for the first time in her life, having it all.
After a health scare made him realize he was living for nothing but his job, Leo Sinclaire is out to find balance in his life. This starts with buying a rundown house, connecting with the roots he’s ignored since becoming a cutthroat publicist to some of the world's biggest stars, and, most importantly, being alone.
Unfortunately, he quickly finds that if he wants to be alone, Holly Ridge is the wrong choice. That peaceful existence completely evaporates when he discovers his biggest client—and biggest headache—has the same small town as her place to hide away. He spends time trying to keep her in line, both for his job and his sanity, but after a while, old feelings start to surface, and even though dating a client is strictly forbidden, he can’t seem to stop thinking about her.
What happens when those thoughts turn into trying to figure out if they can have it all, together?
Paperback
Published March 19, 2026
230 people are currently reading
17150 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Elizabeth
26 books6,664 followersMorgan is a born and raised Jersey girl, living there with her two boys, toddler daughter, and mechanic husband. She’s addicted to iced espresso, barbecue chips, and Starburst jellybeans. She usually has headphones on, listening to some spicy audiobook or Taylor Swift. There is rarely an in between.
Writing has been her calling for as long as she can remember. There’s a framed ‘page one’ of a book she wrote at seven hanging in her childhood home to prove the point. Her entire life she’s crafted stories in her mind, begging to be released but it wasn’t until recently she finally gave them the reigns.
I’m so grateful you’ve agreed to take this journey with me.
Writing has been her calling for as long as she can remember. There’s a framed ‘page one’ of a book she wrote at seven hanging in her childhood home to prove the point. Her entire life she’s crafted stories in her mind, begging to be released but it wasn’t until recently she finally gave them the reigns.
I’m so grateful you’ve agreed to take this journey with me.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews
April 21, 2026
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── 4.25 stars
i love morgan's book and she is definitely one of my auto read authors! a very comfort romcom author! and this one definitely was a beautiful mix of romcom and real life.
willa stone has been talked about for SO long, i have been waitingggg for this book! her story was a bit deeper than i expected but so well done! she is our happy, people princess - pop star! world sensation and truly america's sweetheart! she's always had to put her career before love and is struggling now, she's always wanted to have a family but her whole life, she's been told she can only have one.
leo oh leo, he is her publicist who moves to holly ridge for some peace and does not expect to run into willa of all people here, the bane of his existence and secret obsession.
i love when the characters have been secretly obsessed with each other for years before but thought their feelings weren't reciprocated, when there ie sosos much yearning!!
i love this series so much and it's definitely worth checking out if u love small towns and found family!
out now on KU!!!
✧˖°🎤 ⋆｡˚꩜ tropes & stuff to expect
⤷ she's a popstar
⤷ he's her publicist
⤷ grumpy x sunshine
⤷ anxiety rep
⤷ forbidden romance
⤷ pining
thank you morgan elizabeth for the e-arc!
↪ started march 19
↪ finished march 20
---
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── pre-read
morgan is an auto read author of mine & my go-to for a fun, contemporary romance! holly ridge is such a enjoyable series of mine and the found family aspect 🥹🫂 i've been so intrigued about willa since we got to know her a bit in the bright side of christmas
i love morgan's book and she is definitely one of my auto read authors! a very comfort romcom author! and this one definitely was a beautiful mix of romcom and real life.
willa stone has been talked about for SO long, i have been waitingggg for this book! her story was a bit deeper than i expected but so well done! she is our happy, people princess - pop star! world sensation and truly america's sweetheart! she's always had to put her career before love and is struggling now, she's always wanted to have a family but her whole life, she's been told she can only have one.
leo oh leo, he is her publicist who moves to holly ridge for some peace and does not expect to run into willa of all people here, the bane of his existence and secret obsession.
i love when the characters have been secretly obsessed with each other for years before but thought their feelings weren't reciprocated, when there ie sosos much yearning!!
i love this series so much and it's definitely worth checking out if u love small towns and found family!
out now on KU!!!
✧˖°🎤 ⋆｡˚꩜ tropes & stuff to expect
⤷ she's a popstar
⤷ he's her publicist
⤷ grumpy x sunshine
⤷ anxiety rep
⤷ forbidden romance
⤷ pining
thank you morgan elizabeth for the e-arc!
↪ started march 19
↪ finished march 20
---
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── pre-read
morgan is an auto read author of mine & my go-to for a fun, contemporary romance! holly ridge is such a enjoyable series of mine and the found family aspect 🥹🫂 i've been so intrigued about willa since we got to know her a bit in the bright side of christmas
Read
April 24, 2026⋆𐙚₊˚⊹♡ Dnf 61%
Thank you Morgan Elizabeth and house of hearts for letting me read this arc!!!
I want to start off by saying that the story is definitely not the problem and it was actually very good.
It started off very interesting and when i heard about this book i was really excited, though the more i kept reading the more i started putting it off. There were many giggling and kicking feet moments but i was just not really feeling it after a while.
I always love Morgan’s books and im so sad that i couldn’t finish it.
I think it also might have been the characters, i really dont know what made this hard for me to read since i just got back into reading a lot.
Thank you Morgan Elizabeth and house of hearts for letting me read this arc!!!
I want to start off by saying that the story is definitely not the problem and it was actually very good.
It started off very interesting and when i heard about this book i was really excited, though the more i kept reading the more i started putting it off. There were many giggling and kicking feet moments but i was just not really feeling it after a while.
I always love Morgan’s books and im so sad that i couldn’t finish it.
I think it also might have been the characters, i really dont know what made this hard for me to read since i just got back into reading a lot.
April 9, 2026
Thank you to House of Hearts Lit for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This series is my favorite from Morgan amd this book definitely didn't disappoint! I absolutely love Willa and Leo! The way this man cares for her is sooo cute and swoony.
This book is full of found family and it was so fun to be back with some of my favorite characters!
Read this if you love:
• popstar × publicist
• grumpy × sunshine
• forbidden love
• found family
• amazing spice
• anxiety rep
This series is my favorite from Morgan amd this book definitely didn't disappoint! I absolutely love Willa and Leo! The way this man cares for her is sooo cute and swoony.
This book is full of found family and it was so fun to be back with some of my favorite characters!
Read this if you love:
• popstar × publicist
• grumpy × sunshine
• forbidden love
• found family
• amazing spice
• anxiety rep
Read
March 21, 2026The Lie of Having it All
There's a reason why I try to avoid books where the FMC is a people-pleaser. These fictional characters never fail to drain the energy and patience out of me, and Willa is no different.
But tbh, I didn't even read the blurb of this book. When I saw that it just came out and was part of a series I'd enjoyed, I just borrowed it and jumped into reading it immediately. Well, as it turns out, that was not a good idea at all.
Anyway, so Willa (28?) and Leo (32?) met once 8 years ago, and sparks flew right then and there. They both thought to seek each other again after that coffee date, but hours later they met under a different circumstance. She was introduced to this PR company, and he was the junior publicist that was making a name for himself. Long story short, he became her publicist. So that's how their relationship has been for the last eight years. But apparently that spark didn't leave, and since then they've been mutually pining for each other. However, acting on that attraction is forbidden, so they just buried the feelings deep, deep down.
I wasn't really into the premise because I'm not a big fan of forbidden romance. So, this is a grumpy x sunshine vibe, which I usually love, but Leo was such a jerk at the start of the story. The way he talked to Willa really got on my nerves, and it's frustrating that this kind of behavior keeps hurting the "sunshine" character. That's not cool. She let him get away with that at first, but she finally stood up for herself, so good for her, I guess. I really wish she had found her backbone a bit sooner and used it on others too, especially those who like to take advantage of her.
Anyway, Leo’s sudden 180 took me by surprise even though it shouldn't have. After all, the author had already hinted that these two had been experiencing some sort of yearning for quite some time. But idk, I still was a bit surprised by his sudden interest in changing their situation and finally having his "fuck it" moment. And Willa was just more than happy to go along with it.
After they got on the same page, it was a repetition of their mundane daily tasks, and it was unexciting, to say the least. I skimmed some of them because I couldn't be bothered by their house renovation stuff or the food they had. Then the drama introduced at 75% was annoying and eye-roll-worthy because, again, Willas's people-pleasing personality and martyrdom took the reins in this part. While I understand her intentions in trying to protect Leo, I believe the situation would have been much smoother if she had included him in the details. After all, he's a publicist that has more experience in how to handle and deal with this sketchy situation. At least this ended on a positive note.
That said, I didn't enjoy this mainly because of the MCs. Idk, they just didn't appeal to me, and the chemistry was there but not enough to make me root for them. 🤷♀️
Book info:
— Forbidden romance
— Publicist x Artist (his client)
— Forced proximity
— Years of pining (apparently)
— Small town shenanigans
— Blackmail
— Grumpy (??) x Sunshine
— Loss of a parent (off page, past)
— No cheating, OW, separation
— Open door spice
— No V
— OM (Not really, but she had to fake a relationship for her upcoming album)
— HFN (in a relationship)
Notes:
— No, V. It wasn't clearly explained, but reading between the lines, I think both of them dated OP in the years they've been working together. Leo even had to find the men whom Willa pretended to date, so he witnessed some of her staged dates. But yeah, they both dated, but not many details were given about it. Willa said it's been a while since she's been with anyone—2 years, I think. While there was no info provided about Leo. He just gave a throwaway line that women didn't like how workaholic he is. Ngl, it's weird why authors love to give details about the FMCs' dating lives but can't be bothered to do the same for the MMCs. Why is that, though?
— OM. Willa said that she didn't want any PDA happening between them in the early stages of their fake dating. But the OM forced a kiss on her, and she participated because there were cameras everywhere, and she needed to play a role.
— Leo was okay with the fake relationship; he knew it was part of Willa's job and felt secure enough to not let it affect them. I actually liked how they communicated about the situation and how they're mature enough to handle this aspect.
— I really, really dislike HFN endings. Why can't we get a glimpse of their lives years after? Is that too much to ask?
There's a reason why I try to avoid books where the FMC is a people-pleaser. These fictional characters never fail to drain the energy and patience out of me, and Willa is no different.
But tbh, I didn't even read the blurb of this book. When I saw that it just came out and was part of a series I'd enjoyed, I just borrowed it and jumped into reading it immediately. Well, as it turns out, that was not a good idea at all.
Anyway, so Willa (28?) and Leo (32?) met once 8 years ago, and sparks flew right then and there. They both thought to seek each other again after that coffee date, but hours later they met under a different circumstance. She was introduced to this PR company, and he was the junior publicist that was making a name for himself. Long story short, he became her publicist. So that's how their relationship has been for the last eight years. But apparently that spark didn't leave, and since then they've been mutually pining for each other. However, acting on that attraction is forbidden, so they just buried the feelings deep, deep down.
I wasn't really into the premise because I'm not a big fan of forbidden romance. So, this is a grumpy x sunshine vibe, which I usually love, but Leo was such a jerk at the start of the story. The way he talked to Willa really got on my nerves, and it's frustrating that this kind of behavior keeps hurting the "sunshine" character. That's not cool. She let him get away with that at first, but she finally stood up for herself, so good for her, I guess. I really wish she had found her backbone a bit sooner and used it on others too, especially those who like to take advantage of her.
Anyway, Leo’s sudden 180 took me by surprise even though it shouldn't have. After all, the author had already hinted that these two had been experiencing some sort of yearning for quite some time. But idk, I still was a bit surprised by his sudden interest in changing their situation and finally having his "fuck it" moment. And Willa was just more than happy to go along with it.
After they got on the same page, it was a repetition of their mundane daily tasks, and it was unexciting, to say the least. I skimmed some of them because I couldn't be bothered by their house renovation stuff or the food they had. Then the drama introduced at 75% was annoying and eye-roll-worthy because, again, Willas's people-pleasing personality and martyrdom took the reins in this part. While I understand her intentions in trying to protect Leo, I believe the situation would have been much smoother if she had included him in the details. After all, he's a publicist that has more experience in how to handle and deal with this sketchy situation. At least this ended on a positive note.
That said, I didn't enjoy this mainly because of the MCs. Idk, they just didn't appeal to me, and the chemistry was there but not enough to make me root for them. 🤷♀️
Book info:
— Forbidden romance
— Publicist x Artist (his client)
— Forced proximity
— Years of pining (apparently)
— Small town shenanigans
— Blackmail
— Grumpy (??) x Sunshine
— Loss of a parent (off page, past)
— No cheating, OW, separation
— Open door spice
— No V
— OM (Not really, but she had to fake a relationship for her upcoming album)
— HFN (in a relationship)
Notes:
— No, V. It wasn't clearly explained, but reading between the lines, I think both of them dated OP in the years they've been working together. Leo even had to find the men whom Willa pretended to date, so he witnessed some of her staged dates. But yeah, they both dated, but not many details were given about it. Willa said it's been a while since she's been with anyone—2 years, I think. While there was no info provided about Leo. He just gave a throwaway line that women didn't like how workaholic he is. Ngl, it's weird why authors love to give details about the FMCs' dating lives but can't be bothered to do the same for the MMCs. Why is that, though?
— OM. Willa said that she didn't want any PDA happening between them in the early stages of their fake dating. But the OM forced a kiss on her, and she participated because there were cameras everywhere, and she needed to play a role.
— Leo was okay with the fake relationship; he knew it was part of Willa's job and felt secure enough to not let it affect them. I actually liked how they communicated about the situation and how they're mature enough to handle this aspect.
— I really, really dislike HFN endings. Why can't we get a glimpse of their lives years after? Is that too much to ask?
March 22, 2026
The Lie of Having It All is book 3 in the Holly Ridge series. This has been a series I’ve had a lot of fun with and this was a cutie addition. This is Leo and Willa’s story, it’s a small town, grumpy x sunshine romance between a popstar and her publicist.
Needing a break from work, Leo recently purchased a fixer upper in Holly Ridge. The small town that one of his clients (the hero of book 1) recently moved too as well. Leo is a publicist and one of his other clients is Willa, a famous popstar. Willa has been in many PR relationships throughout her career and her manager has always had a hand in how she’s seen by the public, carefully crafting everything about her image (down to her wardrobe). Willa is told she should take a break from the spotlight for the next few months into her next PR relationship is due to start up, and to go focus on writing songs for her upcoming album, so she decides to move to Holly Ridge after hearing about it from her friend Adam (the hero of book 1).
Willa runs into Leo right away and they’re both pulled to one another. They actually had a moment the very first time they met years prior, before she was as popular as she is now and before he was her publicist, they ran into one another at a coffee shop and shared a moment. Their relationship moves quickly and since he’s on her team he was aware of her upcoming “relationship” she was contractually obligated to take part in. It was refreshing and nice to see them handle the logistics of that and no jealousies come into play or create drama. Their relationship was easy and steady while outside circumstances were the drama of the story. I liked seeing the small town fun, her helping him renovate and fix-up his new house, the friend group. This was cute, spicy, and fun overall.
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
CW: death of a parent (off-page), narcissistic parents and parental figures, blackmail, anxiety and on-page panic attacks
Needing a break from work, Leo recently purchased a fixer upper in Holly Ridge. The small town that one of his clients (the hero of book 1) recently moved too as well. Leo is a publicist and one of his other clients is Willa, a famous popstar. Willa has been in many PR relationships throughout her career and her manager has always had a hand in how she’s seen by the public, carefully crafting everything about her image (down to her wardrobe). Willa is told she should take a break from the spotlight for the next few months into her next PR relationship is due to start up, and to go focus on writing songs for her upcoming album, so she decides to move to Holly Ridge after hearing about it from her friend Adam (the hero of book 1).
Willa runs into Leo right away and they’re both pulled to one another. They actually had a moment the very first time they met years prior, before she was as popular as she is now and before he was her publicist, they ran into one another at a coffee shop and shared a moment. Their relationship moves quickly and since he’s on her team he was aware of her upcoming “relationship” she was contractually obligated to take part in. It was refreshing and nice to see them handle the logistics of that and no jealousies come into play or create drama. Their relationship was easy and steady while outside circumstances were the drama of the story. I liked seeing the small town fun, her helping him renovate and fix-up his new house, the friend group. This was cute, spicy, and fun overall.
I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
CW: death of a parent (off-page), narcissistic parents and parental figures, blackmail, anxiety and on-page panic attacks
March 22, 2026
“I remember every single moment I’ve ever spent with you, Willa, but I definitely remember the first time I met you.”
5⭐️ 3🌶️
- Willa & Leo
- escaping to small town
- grumpy x sunshine
- forbidden romance
- anxiety rep
Holly Ridge just feels like a warm cozy hug, ugh I love it!!
Willa gives her *all* for her fans and her career, but she’s realizing that she needs an escape. Just for a little while, to recoup and reset from work stress. And what better place to hide out in than Holly Ridge? But what she doesn’t expect is to run into Leo while she’s there.
Leo has been protective of Willa from the moment he first met her, but she quickly became a client of his so he’s had to keep his true feelings to himself and he chose to put their careers first. But now that they’re in Holly Ridge at the same time and they start spending more time together, things feel different between them and sparks start to fly.
But one thing doesn’t change for Leo, he refuses to do anything that could negatively affect Willa’s career especially once it’s time for her to start a new fake relationship. But when things come to a head and she needs him by her side, he is right there to support her and love on her.
Thank you so much to Morgan and Rae for the ARC!
5⭐️ 3🌶️
- Willa & Leo
- escaping to small town
- grumpy x sunshine
- forbidden romance
- anxiety rep
Holly Ridge just feels like a warm cozy hug, ugh I love it!!
Willa gives her *all* for her fans and her career, but she’s realizing that she needs an escape. Just for a little while, to recoup and reset from work stress. And what better place to hide out in than Holly Ridge? But what she doesn’t expect is to run into Leo while she’s there.
Leo has been protective of Willa from the moment he first met her, but she quickly became a client of his so he’s had to keep his true feelings to himself and he chose to put their careers first. But now that they’re in Holly Ridge at the same time and they start spending more time together, things feel different between them and sparks start to fly.
But one thing doesn’t change for Leo, he refuses to do anything that could negatively affect Willa’s career especially once it’s time for her to start a new fake relationship. But when things come to a head and she needs him by her side, he is right there to support her and love on her.
Thank you so much to Morgan and Rae for the ARC!
March 17, 2026
4.5⭐️
Something about being back in Holly Ridge is just so good for the soul. I have absolutely loved this series, but Willa & Leo may be my favorite this far!! Their story was so heartfelt, full of banter, pining, and just overall feel good vibes.
Willa is struggling to find herself outside of her pop star lifestyle and Leo is the grumpy publicist who is fighting to ignore his feelings for her.
Both of these characters are going through some struggles and moments of self doubt, needing guidance and watching them help each other through it definitely pulled at my heartstrings. The way Leo cared for Willa when he finally let his guard down, was so swoony.
This book is so full of found family and being back with some of my fave characters was so fun! The importance they played in this story and to these characters is just heartwarming!!
Watching Willa find herself, her strength, and her voice, made me so dang proud of her! & having Leo by her side to give her a save place and someone she can fully trust made this story that much more amazing.
Morgan Elizabeth just has a way of writing characters and stories that will absolutely make you fall in love and feel all the things. This was no different! All the emotions and even the added spicy moments between these two were top tier!!
I highly recommend this entire series and everyone needs to get to know Leo & Willa!! ❤️
Something about being back in Holly Ridge is just so good for the soul. I have absolutely loved this series, but Willa & Leo may be my favorite this far!! Their story was so heartfelt, full of banter, pining, and just overall feel good vibes.
Willa is struggling to find herself outside of her pop star lifestyle and Leo is the grumpy publicist who is fighting to ignore his feelings for her.
Both of these characters are going through some struggles and moments of self doubt, needing guidance and watching them help each other through it definitely pulled at my heartstrings. The way Leo cared for Willa when he finally let his guard down, was so swoony.
This book is so full of found family and being back with some of my fave characters was so fun! The importance they played in this story and to these characters is just heartwarming!!
Watching Willa find herself, her strength, and her voice, made me so dang proud of her! & having Leo by her side to give her a save place and someone she can fully trust made this story that much more amazing.
Morgan Elizabeth just has a way of writing characters and stories that will absolutely make you fall in love and feel all the things. This was no different! All the emotions and even the added spicy moments between these two were top tier!!
I highly recommend this entire series and everyone needs to get to know Leo & Willa!! ❤️
March 11, 2026
Thank you so much House of Hearts Lit for this ARC 🫶🏻
I am always so happy to pick up a new Morgan book!
Willa Stone is a pop star that is constantly pushed to fake date other celebs. Before her next fake boyfriend she needs to lay low.
She escapes to Holly ridge. Leo, her publicist has also decided to slow things down and head to the small town to work on his new home. He’s upset to see Willa there because he’s always been attracted to her!
As they spend more time together, they admit their true feelings. With both of them being in contracts that control them, they have to find a way to be together!
I’m so happy Willa found her strength to have it all! With terrible PR and managers along with her mother, she had a lot to overcome!
I am always so happy to pick up a new Morgan book!
Willa Stone is a pop star that is constantly pushed to fake date other celebs. Before her next fake boyfriend she needs to lay low.
She escapes to Holly ridge. Leo, her publicist has also decided to slow things down and head to the small town to work on his new home. He’s upset to see Willa there because he’s always been attracted to her!
As they spend more time together, they admit their true feelings. With both of them being in contracts that control them, they have to find a way to be together!
I’m so happy Willa found her strength to have it all! With terrible PR and managers along with her mother, she had a lot to overcome!
March 28, 2026
Sometimes I've thought about what it would be like to befriend a pop star. One that looks like they need a good friend. Here, the situation kinda presented itself (except Willa has a great head on her shoulders).
Willa is takinga break from being a celebrity while shes working on new music. What she doesnt know is that the small town shes going to? Happens to be where Leo is staying. Leo, her publicist. Leo, who she might have had a small crush on. Was it returned? (Read and see!)
Leo, after a small health scare (hes something of a work a holic) has come to the town of Holly Ridge to slow it down some. What he doesnt expect is his client to be there too. Having fun, letting loose with the awesome ladies of Holly Ridge.
Leo is slowly letting us see the guy behind the job and suits. And whew, he has people (Willa!!) noticing.
But the time in Holly Ridge cant last forever. Willa has a (fake!) relationship to start. And Leo has a job to do. One that hes unfortunately stuck in.
Willa is such a sweetheart. You'd think being rich and famous would make her petty and spoiled. But she loves what she does and deserves a family and friends.
Leo is so dedicated. Sometimes to a fault. I just wanted them to buck it all, but thats not who they are.
I freaking love this sweet town... am I coming back?!?!?
Willa is takinga break from being a celebrity while shes working on new music. What she doesnt know is that the small town shes going to? Happens to be where Leo is staying. Leo, her publicist. Leo, who she might have had a small crush on. Was it returned? (Read and see!)
Leo, after a small health scare (hes something of a work a holic) has come to the town of Holly Ridge to slow it down some. What he doesnt expect is his client to be there too. Having fun, letting loose with the awesome ladies of Holly Ridge.
Leo is slowly letting us see the guy behind the job and suits. And whew, he has people (Willa!!) noticing.
But the time in Holly Ridge cant last forever. Willa has a (fake!) relationship to start. And Leo has a job to do. One that hes unfortunately stuck in.
Willa is such a sweetheart. You'd think being rich and famous would make her petty and spoiled. But she loves what she does and deserves a family and friends.
Leo is so dedicated. Sometimes to a fault. I just wanted them to buck it all, but thats not who they are.
I freaking love this sweet town... am I coming back?!?!?
April 1, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Holly Ridge #3!! Interconnected standalone, and I read book 2 without reading book 1 but I do think that you get the sensation of coming home to your favourite characters if you read the previous books first. This was technically a second chance and grumpy/sunshine romance between Willa (popstar) and Leo (her publicist). I didn't like Leo in the beginning, he was a jerk, and as a recovering people pleaser myself I didn't really like how willing Willa was to just take it and (eventually) stand up for herself but not call him out on his bs. I think this is in part because Morgan Elizabeth's books are so relatable, painfully so at times. I saw so much of myself in Willa, especially when she struggles to really be her own biggest cheerleader, and I think that's what made it hard to read. As always, my favourite part of Morgan's books is the found family and this one was no exception.
Thank you Morgan Elizabeth and House of Hearts for the e-arc! All opinions are my own.
Holly Ridge #3!! Interconnected standalone, and I read book 2 without reading book 1 but I do think that you get the sensation of coming home to your favourite characters if you read the previous books first. This was technically a second chance and grumpy/sunshine romance between Willa (popstar) and Leo (her publicist). I didn't like Leo in the beginning, he was a jerk, and as a recovering people pleaser myself I didn't really like how willing Willa was to just take it and (eventually) stand up for herself but not call him out on his bs. I think this is in part because Morgan Elizabeth's books are so relatable, painfully so at times. I saw so much of myself in Willa, especially when she struggles to really be her own biggest cheerleader, and I think that's what made it hard to read. As always, my favourite part of Morgan's books is the found family and this one was no exception.
Thank you Morgan Elizabeth and House of Hearts for the e-arc! All opinions are my own.
March 20, 2026
Thank you to Morgan for the ARC!
For fans of Wild Eyes by Elsie Silver.
Willa, a pop star, is living her best life, but is it really hers? Leo, her publicist, hates how much he's attracted to her. When he buys a house in Holly Ridge he's excited to get some distance. But fate has other plans when Willa also decides to hide out in Holly Ridge.
I loved that Willa was able to find a family, friends, a home, and her identity in Holly Ridge. Leo was so patient, and helped her stand up for herself.
Tropes:
small town
grumpy x sunshine
pop star x publicist
mental health rep
found family
For fans of Wild Eyes by Elsie Silver.
Willa, a pop star, is living her best life, but is it really hers? Leo, her publicist, hates how much he's attracted to her. When he buys a house in Holly Ridge he's excited to get some distance. But fate has other plans when Willa also decides to hide out in Holly Ridge.
I loved that Willa was able to find a family, friends, a home, and her identity in Holly Ridge. Leo was so patient, and helped her stand up for herself.
Tropes:
small town
grumpy x sunshine
pop star x publicist
mental health rep
found family
March 17, 2026
This was a super sweet romance about also finding yourself, standing up for yourself, and letting go of what others think of you. I absolutely adored Willa. I loved the cameos from prior books, probably one of my favorite parts. I loved that it was technically a second chance romance. This was overall such a sweet read.
Thank you Morgan Elizabeth for the opportunity for this ARC 🫶🏻
Thank you Morgan Elizabeth for the opportunity for this ARC 🫶🏻
March 13, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Oh I have been waiting for Willa and Leo’s story and Morgan certainly didn’t disappoint 🤭.
If you have been reading the series you will know that Willa is a famous pop star and Leo is her publicist. These two were definitely experiencing a burn out so to speak, Leo was tired of working for a company with corrupt morals and just wanted to retreat for a small while and he actually buys a house in Holly Ridge. Similar to Leo, Willa has never deviated from her routine and it is starting to cause some issues, mainly that she is encountering writers block. When suggested by her agent and Leo for her to lay low for a little while Willa takes the opportunity but she finds herself also wanting to get away from the big city and that is how she finds herself also in Holly Ridge.
Now Leo and Willa actually met before he became her publicist and to say these two were taken with one another would be an understatement but of course Leo couldn’t act on this due to the fraternisation clause in his contract, and oh boy did these two yearn for one another.
During her time in Holly Ridge, Willa leaves her guard down completely and she experiences all things that life has to offer. This is mainly the simplistic things like nights out with friends, town events etc, all things a pop star doesn’t get to experience and honestly I loved seeing Willa so carefree. Now everyone around Leo and Willa could see what was brewing between them before it even occurred and I found it hilarious.
Leo did keep an eye on Willa but without the constant supervision of the public eye both these characters let their guard down and those feelings they couldn’t act on before oh well that completely just went out the window🤭
Of course these two cannot hide in the town of Holly Ridge for forever and eventually must return to the real world but now that they got a taste of how good life can be without that pressure the pair decide they will never return to how they previously were. In no world would Willa and Leo give up each other and my heart was ever so full😭.
I absolutely loved this couple, Leo worshipped the ground Willa walked on and he was determined that Willa would experience everything she missed out on. I love how Willas confidence grew throughout the book and wasnt afraid to take what she wanted. She pushed Leo’s buttons early on in the book and this added to a lovely tension that brew between the pair🤭.
Morgan Elizabeth definitely lined up some future couples in this book and I cannot wait until we return to Holly Ridge for our next couple.
Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Oh I have been waiting for Willa and Leo’s story and Morgan certainly didn’t disappoint 🤭.
If you have been reading the series you will know that Willa is a famous pop star and Leo is her publicist. These two were definitely experiencing a burn out so to speak, Leo was tired of working for a company with corrupt morals and just wanted to retreat for a small while and he actually buys a house in Holly Ridge. Similar to Leo, Willa has never deviated from her routine and it is starting to cause some issues, mainly that she is encountering writers block. When suggested by her agent and Leo for her to lay low for a little while Willa takes the opportunity but she finds herself also wanting to get away from the big city and that is how she finds herself also in Holly Ridge.
Now Leo and Willa actually met before he became her publicist and to say these two were taken with one another would be an understatement but of course Leo couldn’t act on this due to the fraternisation clause in his contract, and oh boy did these two yearn for one another.
During her time in Holly Ridge, Willa leaves her guard down completely and she experiences all things that life has to offer. This is mainly the simplistic things like nights out with friends, town events etc, all things a pop star doesn’t get to experience and honestly I loved seeing Willa so carefree. Now everyone around Leo and Willa could see what was brewing between them before it even occurred and I found it hilarious.
Leo did keep an eye on Willa but without the constant supervision of the public eye both these characters let their guard down and those feelings they couldn’t act on before oh well that completely just went out the window🤭
Of course these two cannot hide in the town of Holly Ridge for forever and eventually must return to the real world but now that they got a taste of how good life can be without that pressure the pair decide they will never return to how they previously were. In no world would Willa and Leo give up each other and my heart was ever so full😭.
I absolutely loved this couple, Leo worshipped the ground Willa walked on and he was determined that Willa would experience everything she missed out on. I love how Willas confidence grew throughout the book and wasnt afraid to take what she wanted. She pushed Leo’s buttons early on in the book and this added to a lovely tension that brew between the pair🤭.
Morgan Elizabeth definitely lined up some future couples in this book and I cannot wait until we return to Holly Ridge for our next couple.
Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
March 14, 2026
✨️ARC Review✨️
4.5⭐️ for The Lie of Having it All by Morgan Elizabeth
This book was exactly what I needed right now, a lighthearted romcom with banter, spice and a hint of yearning, it hit the spot just right.
Willa's journey from people pleaser to self-confident queen was so relatable, I loved seeing her growth; I'm not a popstar by any means but the journey still felt authentic and when she finally stood up to her manager, I was cheering for her.
Leo is such a sweetheart, the way he falls first and hard for Willa was just perfect! The way he wants to give her all the "firsts" she's never had made me melt into a swooning puddle.
I did find the yearning to be more talked about then actually showed, but the essence of it was still there and made me root for them to get together.
The spice was spicing in this one, even when the two MCs had to be in different cities, they found creative ways to ~be together~ and I ate it all up. Plus, there's no unecessary third act breakup in this story, which I appreciated so much.
Read if you enjoy small town, found family, forbidden romance vibes with a grumpy/sunshine twist.
Thank you to Morgan Elizabeth for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
4.5⭐️ for The Lie of Having it All by Morgan Elizabeth
This book was exactly what I needed right now, a lighthearted romcom with banter, spice and a hint of yearning, it hit the spot just right.
Willa's journey from people pleaser to self-confident queen was so relatable, I loved seeing her growth; I'm not a popstar by any means but the journey still felt authentic and when she finally stood up to her manager, I was cheering for her.
Leo is such a sweetheart, the way he falls first and hard for Willa was just perfect! The way he wants to give her all the "firsts" she's never had made me melt into a swooning puddle.
I did find the yearning to be more talked about then actually showed, but the essence of it was still there and made me root for them to get together.
The spice was spicing in this one, even when the two MCs had to be in different cities, they found creative ways to ~be together~ and I ate it all up. Plus, there's no unecessary third act breakup in this story, which I appreciated so much.
Read if you enjoy small town, found family, forbidden romance vibes with a grumpy/sunshine twist.
Thank you to Morgan Elizabeth for a copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
March 21, 2026
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thanks to Morgan Elizabeth for the gifted copy — all opinions are my own. A love affair between a pop star and her publicist… what could possibly go wrong?!
Leo and Willa’s story hooked me right from their adorable coffee shop meet cute—because what’s more memorable than spilling coffee on your future soulmate? Their instant connection is undeniable… until fate throws them the ultimate curveball when they meet again at work—Willa as the rising pop star and Leo as her publicist. And Leo doesn’t even acts like he recognize her?!
Fast forward years later, after working side by side and silently pining for each other, burnout pushes them both to the same small town at the same time. And THAT is when everything finally starts to fall into place. The slow burn, the longing, the “what ifs”—it all builds into something so satisfying when they finally give in.
Leo is everything. Thoughtful, protective, and completely devoted to Willa in a way that made my heart melt. Watching him give her all the experiences she missed out on as a child star? Ugh, SO soft and meaningful. And the chemistry between them? Absolutely off the charts.
But of course, reality looms. Their world back in the city, their careers, their responsibilities… it all raises the question: can their love survive outside of their little bubble?
This book delivered romance, emotion, and spice in the best way. I adored every second of Leo and Willa’s journey!
Leo and Willa’s story hooked me right from their adorable coffee shop meet cute—because what’s more memorable than spilling coffee on your future soulmate? Their instant connection is undeniable… until fate throws them the ultimate curveball when they meet again at work—Willa as the rising pop star and Leo as her publicist. And Leo doesn’t even acts like he recognize her?!
Fast forward years later, after working side by side and silently pining for each other, burnout pushes them both to the same small town at the same time. And THAT is when everything finally starts to fall into place. The slow burn, the longing, the “what ifs”—it all builds into something so satisfying when they finally give in.
Leo is everything. Thoughtful, protective, and completely devoted to Willa in a way that made my heart melt. Watching him give her all the experiences she missed out on as a child star? Ugh, SO soft and meaningful. And the chemistry between them? Absolutely off the charts.
But of course, reality looms. Their world back in the city, their careers, their responsibilities… it all raises the question: can their love survive outside of their little bubble?
This book delivered romance, emotion, and spice in the best way. I adored every second of Leo and Willa’s journey!
April 11, 2026
The coziness and comfort Morgan’s books bring me is incredible. It’s like a warm blanket, like swimming into a world in which everything is possible, and in which men are able to communicate their feelings and show them.
Willa is a people pleaser by definition and, being one myself, I totally understand her feelings. Sometimes is easier to just ignore it rather than address it. I’m glad that she has now Leo, someone who shows her how to stand her ground and her boundaries.
Going back to Holly Ridge is always like going back home. The girls are there to gossip and telling jokes, while the boys make sure they’re safe and have poker nights. In this book they invite Willa and Leo to join them and they’re exactly what they didn’t know they needed: a family.
Here’s what you should know:
❤️Popstar x her publicist
❤️Grumpy x sunshine
❤️Found family
❤️Small town
❤️Forced proximity
❤️Forbidden
❤️People pleaser FMC
❤️Spicy level 3.5/5
❤️Third of a series (you don’t need the other to understand this but you will find spoilers and you can have a bit more of context)
⚠️TW: death of a parent (off-page), narcissistic parents and parental figures, black mail, anxiety, on-page panic attacks.
Willa is a people pleaser by definition and, being one myself, I totally understand her feelings. Sometimes is easier to just ignore it rather than address it. I’m glad that she has now Leo, someone who shows her how to stand her ground and her boundaries.
Going back to Holly Ridge is always like going back home. The girls are there to gossip and telling jokes, while the boys make sure they’re safe and have poker nights. In this book they invite Willa and Leo to join them and they’re exactly what they didn’t know they needed: a family.
Here’s what you should know:
❤️Popstar x her publicist
❤️Grumpy x sunshine
❤️Found family
❤️Small town
❤️Forced proximity
❤️Forbidden
❤️People pleaser FMC
❤️Spicy level 3.5/5
❤️Third of a series (you don’t need the other to understand this but you will find spoilers and you can have a bit more of context)
⚠️TW: death of a parent (off-page), narcissistic parents and parental figures, black mail, anxiety, on-page panic attacks.
March 20, 2026
4.25⭐️
I always love picking up a ME book because they just always hit the spot for me and it was so wonderful being back in Holly Ridge! The Lie of Having It All follows Willa Stone, a pop star, and Leo, her publicist. Willa is constantly being pushed to be in fake relationships and we find her in a state of limbo having to lay low for a bit. She decides to go to small town Holly Ridge to do so where she runs into Leo, who has a home there and has decided to do that same thing. Leo does not want Willa in his town or his space because he has been battling his attraction to her from the day they met. As they work together on fixing up his house, they start to grow closer and finally admit the feelings they have always had for each other. The banter and tension between them was perfect and I LOVED seeing Willa come into her power and finally stand up for herself and what she deserves!! Another amazing book from Morgan and I can't wait to see what's next!!
Thank you to Morgan and her team for the ARC!
I always love picking up a ME book because they just always hit the spot for me and it was so wonderful being back in Holly Ridge! The Lie of Having It All follows Willa Stone, a pop star, and Leo, her publicist. Willa is constantly being pushed to be in fake relationships and we find her in a state of limbo having to lay low for a bit. She decides to go to small town Holly Ridge to do so where she runs into Leo, who has a home there and has decided to do that same thing. Leo does not want Willa in his town or his space because he has been battling his attraction to her from the day they met. As they work together on fixing up his house, they start to grow closer and finally admit the feelings they have always had for each other. The banter and tension between them was perfect and I LOVED seeing Willa come into her power and finally stand up for herself and what she deserves!! Another amazing book from Morgan and I can't wait to see what's next!!
Thank you to Morgan and her team for the ARC!
March 13, 2026
Thank you to House of Hearts and Morgan Elizabeth for selecting me as an ARC reader of another amazing book.
Willa Stone has been in the spotlight since a child. No decisions for her life she’s been in control of. After a rough interaction with the press and told to lay low she on a whim decides to go to Holly Ridge to work through a writers block. At the same time her publicist that she had an incredible meet cute with 8 years ago before he realized she was a pop star is renovating a new house in Holly Ridge. Quickly their friend group intertwined and she imbedded herself to help him renovate his house. He starts to take her on the mundane firsts everyone has experienced both revealing they’ve always had something for eachother. She learns that you don’t need everything to be happy, you just need your friends who show up without being asked.
Willa Stone has been in the spotlight since a child. No decisions for her life she’s been in control of. After a rough interaction with the press and told to lay low she on a whim decides to go to Holly Ridge to work through a writers block. At the same time her publicist that she had an incredible meet cute with 8 years ago before he realized she was a pop star is renovating a new house in Holly Ridge. Quickly their friend group intertwined and she imbedded herself to help him renovate his house. He starts to take her on the mundane firsts everyone has experienced both revealing they’ve always had something for eachother. She learns that you don’t need everything to be happy, you just need your friends who show up without being asked.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2026
Kinda like if the Hannah Montana movie was a book. I am always down for a Morgan Elizabeth book!!!!! Loved!!!!
March 19, 2026
This book is so sad but so so sweet! These two have so much growing to do and they put so much trust into eachother for support in that growth.
But it is Morgan so the spice is there too! This was so much fun and such a great tie in to all of her other books!
But it is Morgan so the spice is there too! This was so much fun and such a great tie in to all of her other books!
March 20, 2026
Rating: ★★★★½
ARC Review:
I received an advance copy of this book from Morgan Elizabeth through her content team in exchange for an honest review.
Release Date: March 19, 2026
Standalone or Series: Book 3 in the Holly Ridge series but can be read as a standalone.
POV: First Person, Dual
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Vibe: If Hannah Montana 2: Meet Miley Cyrus was a book
Pacing: Medium
Third-Act Breakup: No
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
Cliffhanger: No
Reread-worthy: Yes
Tropes:
✵Pop Star x Publicist
✵Secret Relationship
✵He Falls First
✵Small Town Charm
✵It’s Always Been You
Synopsis: Willa Stone is the most famous pop star in the world, and when she needs to lay low for a bit, she realizes that Holly Ridge is the perfect place to do so! But what she doesn’t expect, is that her publicist ended up in the same small town while on a leave of absence from his job. As the two are forced to breathe the same air in the small town, and realize that they are forbidden from being together because of contracts, they try to keep their distance. But in this small town, the townspeople are nosy and their lives are all too tightly woven together. As they continue to be forced together, Willa realizes that maybe she can “have it all.”
My Thoughts: Morgan Elizabeth is one of my favorite authors and I will eat up everything she writes! I love a good pop star FMC, and this was the first time I have read one where her publicist was the MMC. I already loved Willa from the scenes I got of her in the other books, and this story made me love her more. Willa definitely gave me a bit of a Taylor Swift meets Hannah Montana vibe, and I was SO FOR IT! She may be up there as one of my favorite Morgan characters. I loved her steadfast determination to not back down on her morals. She was firm in what she wanted and what she refused to do in terms of PR, and I loved seeing her stand up for herself. Leo was also an amazing MMC. Their meet-cute at the coffee shop had me giggling and kicking my feet more than I ever had before. The way Leo continued to defend her against the terrible industry was so sweet.
I will continue to scream from the rooftops about Morgan Elizabeth’s books! Go pick this one up now!!!
Follow me on Instagram and TikTok for more!
ARC Review:
I received an advance copy of this book from Morgan Elizabeth through her content team in exchange for an honest review.
Release Date: March 19, 2026
Standalone or Series: Book 3 in the Holly Ridge series but can be read as a standalone.
POV: First Person, Dual
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Vibe: If Hannah Montana 2: Meet Miley Cyrus was a book
Pacing: Medium
Third-Act Breakup: No
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
Cliffhanger: No
Reread-worthy: Yes
Tropes:
✵Pop Star x Publicist
✵Secret Relationship
✵He Falls First
✵Small Town Charm
✵It’s Always Been You
Synopsis: Willa Stone is the most famous pop star in the world, and when she needs to lay low for a bit, she realizes that Holly Ridge is the perfect place to do so! But what she doesn’t expect, is that her publicist ended up in the same small town while on a leave of absence from his job. As the two are forced to breathe the same air in the small town, and realize that they are forbidden from being together because of contracts, they try to keep their distance. But in this small town, the townspeople are nosy and their lives are all too tightly woven together. As they continue to be forced together, Willa realizes that maybe she can “have it all.”
My Thoughts: Morgan Elizabeth is one of my favorite authors and I will eat up everything she writes! I love a good pop star FMC, and this was the first time I have read one where her publicist was the MMC. I already loved Willa from the scenes I got of her in the other books, and this story made me love her more. Willa definitely gave me a bit of a Taylor Swift meets Hannah Montana vibe, and I was SO FOR IT! She may be up there as one of my favorite Morgan characters. I loved her steadfast determination to not back down on her morals. She was firm in what she wanted and what she refused to do in terms of PR, and I loved seeing her stand up for herself. Leo was also an amazing MMC. Their meet-cute at the coffee shop had me giggling and kicking my feet more than I ever had before. The way Leo continued to defend her against the terrible industry was so sweet.
I will continue to scream from the rooftops about Morgan Elizabeth’s books! Go pick this one up now!!!
Follow me on Instagram and TikTok for more!
March 19, 2026
“Because with you, Willa, I already have it all. The rest is just a bonus."
This series has been such a treat for my soul. Each couple is so well written that I truly love them so much. Willa Stone has been mention in so many of Morgan Elizabeth’s books, so getting to read her story was so special!
“You’re tied to me?” she murmurs, clearly still stuck on the beginning of what I said. I grin down at her.
“Knotted so tight, I don’t think I can ever undo it,”
I freaking adore Willa. She would do anything for her fans and the people she cares about, regardless if it makes her happy. Over the years she lost herself and her grumpy publicist makes it his mission to help her find her joy again.
“Because I have people in my life who love me, not despite those imperfections, but because of them.”
From construction to landscaping, and Ferris wheel rides to fast food feasts, Leo Sinclair is a man OBSESSED with seeing Willa smile.
“That’s my good girl.”
This was a slow burn romance that ignited into the best kind of spice! Leo is a man that loves to PLAY & guarantee Willa’s needs are met, again and again. 🤭
“You look good in my bed, Will,”
The ending of this story was so refreshing! Without giving anything away, just know that the love between these two characters can survive anything. Their hearts are always going to find their way back to one another. (And the TAKEDOWN at the end, was EVERYTHING!)
“You’re still not getting it: I’m not in this for the long haul, Will. I'm in this forever.
I can’t wait for the next book, I have my guesses for the next couple! 😉 If you love books where the man YEARNS and finally risks it all to get the girl, you have to go read this book!
Tropes:
🎤 Pop Star x Publicist
🤭 Secret Relationship
🤩 He Would Do ANYTHING to Make Her Happy
💞 Yearning & Pining
🫶🏼 He Falls First
💋 “It’s Always Been You”
❤️🔥 F - It Moment
🔥 Slow Burn + Spice
This series has been such a treat for my soul. Each couple is so well written that I truly love them so much. Willa Stone has been mention in so many of Morgan Elizabeth’s books, so getting to read her story was so special!
“You’re tied to me?” she murmurs, clearly still stuck on the beginning of what I said. I grin down at her.
“Knotted so tight, I don’t think I can ever undo it,”
I freaking adore Willa. She would do anything for her fans and the people she cares about, regardless if it makes her happy. Over the years she lost herself and her grumpy publicist makes it his mission to help her find her joy again.
“Because I have people in my life who love me, not despite those imperfections, but because of them.”
From construction to landscaping, and Ferris wheel rides to fast food feasts, Leo Sinclair is a man OBSESSED with seeing Willa smile.
“That’s my good girl.”
This was a slow burn romance that ignited into the best kind of spice! Leo is a man that loves to PLAY & guarantee Willa’s needs are met, again and again. 🤭
“You look good in my bed, Will,”
The ending of this story was so refreshing! Without giving anything away, just know that the love between these two characters can survive anything. Their hearts are always going to find their way back to one another. (And the TAKEDOWN at the end, was EVERYTHING!)
“You’re still not getting it: I’m not in this for the long haul, Will. I'm in this forever.
I can’t wait for the next book, I have my guesses for the next couple! 😉 If you love books where the man YEARNS and finally risks it all to get the girl, you have to go read this book!
Tropes:
🎤 Pop Star x Publicist
🤭 Secret Relationship
🤩 He Would Do ANYTHING to Make Her Happy
💞 Yearning & Pining
🫶🏼 He Falls First
💋 “It’s Always Been You”
❤️🔥 F - It Moment
🔥 Slow Burn + Spice
April 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️/5
📚 Book 3 [Holly Ridge] can be read as a standalone
I wanna preface that this is not my favorite book of this series so far, but it is still a good book. If you go into The Lie of Having It All expecting a light, fluffy romcom, you’ll get that, but there’s a little more depth under it than you might expect.
This leans hard into the “grumpy publicist / sunshine pop star” dynamic, and it works because the tension isn’t just romantic. They literally can’t be together, and the book actually commits to that instead of brushing it aside. The forbidden aspect feels real, not just thrown in for drama.
Willa is probably the most interesting part of the book. On paper, she “has it all,” but the whole story is really about how manufactured that life is....and how exhausting it becomes. Her people-pleasing tendencies and identity crisis hit harder than expected for what’s marketed as a romcom. Leo balances that well...grumpy, controlled, but very much gone for her from the start.
It’s not perfect. The conflict is more emotional than plot-driven, so if you’re looking for big twists or high drama, it’s not really that kind of book. Some of the tension feels more talked about than fully developed, and it leans heavily on chemistry and vibes to carry things.
But if that’s your thing, then this is the book for you.
Overall, this is one of those reads that’s easy to binge: soft, a little spicy, and surprisingly reflective about ambition, identity, and what “having it all” actually means.
If you like grumpy/sunshine, forbidden workplace romance, and character-driven stories with a bit of emotional depth, this will definitely hit.
🌶️/5
📚 Book 3 [Holly Ridge] can be read as a standalone
I wanna preface that this is not my favorite book of this series so far, but it is still a good book. If you go into The Lie of Having It All expecting a light, fluffy romcom, you’ll get that, but there’s a little more depth under it than you might expect.
This leans hard into the “grumpy publicist / sunshine pop star” dynamic, and it works because the tension isn’t just romantic. They literally can’t be together, and the book actually commits to that instead of brushing it aside. The forbidden aspect feels real, not just thrown in for drama.
Willa is probably the most interesting part of the book. On paper, she “has it all,” but the whole story is really about how manufactured that life is....and how exhausting it becomes. Her people-pleasing tendencies and identity crisis hit harder than expected for what’s marketed as a romcom. Leo balances that well...grumpy, controlled, but very much gone for her from the start.
It’s not perfect. The conflict is more emotional than plot-driven, so if you’re looking for big twists or high drama, it’s not really that kind of book. Some of the tension feels more talked about than fully developed, and it leans heavily on chemistry and vibes to carry things.
But if that’s your thing, then this is the book for you.
Overall, this is one of those reads that’s easy to binge: soft, a little spicy, and surprisingly reflective about ambition, identity, and what “having it all” actually means.
If you like grumpy/sunshine, forbidden workplace romance, and character-driven stories with a bit of emotional depth, this will definitely hit.
![Profile Image for Sara J [saras kindle era].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1705600451i%2F159607381._UY200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 20, 2026
Let me start by saying I was so excited to go back to Holly Ridge with this amazing cast of characters! I was so ready for Willa & Leo, & Morgan Elizabeth DELIVERED!!! They were soooo goooood! I think I am still a Hallie girl forever, but I will ride at dawn for Willa & her beautiful heart!
I love a down bad man, and Leo, sir, gets down bad more & more for Willa! I love how he progressively gets more & more "I'm f**ked" as they go lol!
Leo has always been protective of Willa, & they had such great chemistry & banter, even when he is grumpy! I loved that we got some backstory on their history in this one, about how they almost had something years before, but both choose their careers. I love how driven & dedicated they both are to their careers, & that they respect that about each other. Neither feels like the other should give up anything, they simply look for ways that they can both still chase those goals!
Willa is such a sweetheart, & bless her for never wanting to disappoint anyone, to her detriment at times. When her backbone started showing though, GET IT GIRL!!! And Leo encouraging it?! YES SIR! He let her come into her own & fight her own battles, supporting her from the background or just standing beside her, supporting her. His love was just what Willa needed, & they were beautiful together...plus his mouth?! SIR! H should be illegal, in the best way, PHEW!
I loooved how this one played out! I won't give it away, but the climax/confrontation was *chefs kiss*! GET EM!
Mkay, if you can't tell, I loved it and you should read it too hehe!
**Thank you Morgan & team for the ARC opportunity!**
I love a down bad man, and Leo, sir, gets down bad more & more for Willa! I love how he progressively gets more & more "I'm f**ked" as they go lol!
Leo has always been protective of Willa, & they had such great chemistry & banter, even when he is grumpy! I loved that we got some backstory on their history in this one, about how they almost had something years before, but both choose their careers. I love how driven & dedicated they both are to their careers, & that they respect that about each other. Neither feels like the other should give up anything, they simply look for ways that they can both still chase those goals!
Willa is such a sweetheart, & bless her for never wanting to disappoint anyone, to her detriment at times. When her backbone started showing though, GET IT GIRL!!! And Leo encouraging it?! YES SIR! He let her come into her own & fight her own battles, supporting her from the background or just standing beside her, supporting her. His love was just what Willa needed, & they were beautiful together...plus his mouth?! SIR! H should be illegal, in the best way, PHEW!
I loooved how this one played out! I won't give it away, but the climax/confrontation was *chefs kiss*! GET EM!
Mkay, if you can't tell, I loved it and you should read it too hehe!
**Thank you Morgan & team for the ARC opportunity!**
March 17, 2026
5 stars for Leo Sinclaire and his honey, Willa Stone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved The Lie of Having it All!! Morgan is killing it with the Holly Ridge series. Literally my new comfort series. With each book this series just gets better and better!
I loved Willa and Leo, and getting to know them in this book was everything! They were adorable and sweet and downright sexy!! Willa was just straight up amazing. I loved her and her routines and how her mind worked. It‘s always amazing to see an FMC find herself. Feel comfortable and loved. I just wanted Willa to have everything she wanted.
And Leo? Omg the things this man does?! I did not expect them and god please we all need a Leo Sinclaire in our lives. It would make the world a better place. I loved that he was always there for Willa. He understood her, made her feel comfortable and he gave her many firsts! He was perfection.
The spice in this book was next level! I enjoyed every moment! And the girl gang and yes boy gang bonding!! It was so sweet to see Willa and Leo becoming friends with the Holly Ridge crew!! I love the found family trope of this whole series. It’s done so well!
I am so freaking excited for what’s to come from this series!! We still have Madden & Nat and Colt & his mysterious new tenant! I cannot wait to return to Holly Ridge!!
Thank you to Morgan Elizabeth and House of Hearts for the opportunity to read an ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved The Lie of Having it All!! Morgan is killing it with the Holly Ridge series. Literally my new comfort series. With each book this series just gets better and better!
I loved Willa and Leo, and getting to know them in this book was everything! They were adorable and sweet and downright sexy!! Willa was just straight up amazing. I loved her and her routines and how her mind worked. It‘s always amazing to see an FMC find herself. Feel comfortable and loved. I just wanted Willa to have everything she wanted.
And Leo? Omg the things this man does?! I did not expect them and god please we all need a Leo Sinclaire in our lives. It would make the world a better place. I loved that he was always there for Willa. He understood her, made her feel comfortable and he gave her many firsts! He was perfection.
The spice in this book was next level! I enjoyed every moment! And the girl gang and yes boy gang bonding!! It was so sweet to see Willa and Leo becoming friends with the Holly Ridge crew!! I love the found family trope of this whole series. It’s done so well!
I am so freaking excited for what’s to come from this series!! We still have Madden & Nat and Colt & his mysterious new tenant! I cannot wait to return to Holly Ridge!!
Thank you to Morgan Elizabeth and House of Hearts for the opportunity to read an ARC!
March 22, 2026
The Lie of Having It All
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Morgan Elizabeth
Thank you for the House of Hearts Literary Services and Morgan Elizabeth for this gifted ARC.
This is Book Three of the Holly Ridge Series which all can be read as standalone but if you can, please read the other two first as I felt like I was coming home to my friends group.
First you have our MMC (Leo Sinclaire) publicist to the stars but especially the one and only Willa Stone but Leo has been burning the candle at both ends and has a health scare that bring him to Holly Ridge to renovate a house in a small town where his friend Adam found peace and love and friendship.
Then you add in our FMC (Willa Stone) rock star extraordinaire who has millions of fans, sold countless records but feels as if she missing something in her life and needs to have a reset and finds herself in Holly Ridge where she gets to experience so many firsts — a girl’s night, a friends group, and then her attraction to her publicist which she’s tried to ignore for all these years just happens to be in Holly Ridge too and this is when things start getting really interesting.
I’ve read all the previous books in Holly Ridge and loved them but I have a special place in my heart for Leo and Willa. Their story is endearing but so relatable in today’s rat race world.
If you love, forbidden romance, grumpy/sunshine, and small town romance I think you’ll love not only this story but the entire series!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Morgan Elizabeth
Thank you for the House of Hearts Literary Services and Morgan Elizabeth for this gifted ARC.
This is Book Three of the Holly Ridge Series which all can be read as standalone but if you can, please read the other two first as I felt like I was coming home to my friends group.
First you have our MMC (Leo Sinclaire) publicist to the stars but especially the one and only Willa Stone but Leo has been burning the candle at both ends and has a health scare that bring him to Holly Ridge to renovate a house in a small town where his friend Adam found peace and love and friendship.
Then you add in our FMC (Willa Stone) rock star extraordinaire who has millions of fans, sold countless records but feels as if she missing something in her life and needs to have a reset and finds herself in Holly Ridge where she gets to experience so many firsts — a girl’s night, a friends group, and then her attraction to her publicist which she’s tried to ignore for all these years just happens to be in Holly Ridge too and this is when things start getting really interesting.
I’ve read all the previous books in Holly Ridge and loved them but I have a special place in my heart for Leo and Willa. Their story is endearing but so relatable in today’s rat race world.
If you love, forbidden romance, grumpy/sunshine, and small town romance I think you’ll love not only this story but the entire series!
March 22, 2026
ᴀɴᴏᴛʜᴇʀ ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ sᴛᴏʀʏ ʙʏ Mᴏʀɢᴀɴ Eʟɪᴢᴀʙᴇᴛʜ!
ᗯᕼᗩT TO ᗴ᙭ᑭᗴᑕT:
🎀𝗣𝗼𝗽 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗙𝗠𝗖
🌻𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻
🎀𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
✨𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈✨
𝗣𝗼𝗽 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲, exhausted and in need of a break from the spotlight, finds herself in Holly Ridge where her grumpy publicist Leo is basically doing the same thing. Despite their immediate strong attraction when they first met, Leo insists on keeping things professional while Willa is focused on her career. However, their proximity in the small town leads them to eventually give in to their off-the-charts chemistry.
𝗜 found the story to be fun, especially with the charming setting of Holly Ridge and the meddling friends. The dynamic between Willa and Leo was intense, and their romantic moments were swoon-worthy. Leo is definitely book boyfriend material!
𝗢𝗻𝗲 aspect of the story that I found frustrating was Willa's toxic relationship with her manager and mother, who viewed her as a money-making machine. It was satisfying to see Willa stand up for herself and take control of her own life. It took a while but it was worth the wait!
𝗜 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 this book if you’re a fan of small-town romance and slightly forbidden love between a sunshiny Pop Princess and her irresistible publicist. Many thanks to Morgan Elizabeth for this great read.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟰.𝟮𝟱⭐️ |𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 𝟯.𝟱/𝟱🌶️
ᗯᕼᗩT TO ᗴ᙭ᑭᗴᑕT:
🎀𝗣𝗼𝗽 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗙𝗠𝗖
🌻𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗻
🎀𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
✨𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈✨
𝗣𝗼𝗽 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗲, exhausted and in need of a break from the spotlight, finds herself in Holly Ridge where her grumpy publicist Leo is basically doing the same thing. Despite their immediate strong attraction when they first met, Leo insists on keeping things professional while Willa is focused on her career. However, their proximity in the small town leads them to eventually give in to their off-the-charts chemistry.
𝗜 found the story to be fun, especially with the charming setting of Holly Ridge and the meddling friends. The dynamic between Willa and Leo was intense, and their romantic moments were swoon-worthy. Leo is definitely book boyfriend material!
𝗢𝗻𝗲 aspect of the story that I found frustrating was Willa's toxic relationship with her manager and mother, who viewed her as a money-making machine. It was satisfying to see Willa stand up for herself and take control of her own life. It took a while but it was worth the wait!
𝗜 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 this book if you’re a fan of small-town romance and slightly forbidden love between a sunshiny Pop Princess and her irresistible publicist. Many thanks to Morgan Elizabeth for this great read.
𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝟰.𝟮𝟱⭐️ |𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 𝟯.𝟱/𝟱🌶️
March 26, 2026
The Lie Of Having It All🎤🗒️🎶🎡🍟🧡
Thank you so much Morgan and House Of Hearts Lit for the gifted e-arc of The Lie Of Having It All, out now !!!
Morgan’s books truly will always hit a spot for me. This one, like her others, always hit a topic within its aspect of a romcom. Our fmc, Willa, is a pop star experiencing burnout and goes to our cozy small town, Holly Ridge to find her words again. The mmc, Leo, is her publicist who also escaped to the same small town first to find peace in the chaos of Hollywood.
These two have always been aware of each other more than they should in a workplace. So their tension? Could be cut with a knife. Goodness they were so tender with each other !!!!!!! Which is another one of my favorite things about Morgan. She truly writes soft love in the most beautiful way. Hardship will always happen, but love needs to be tender, equal, and respectful. And the way this was done here, wow.
I love that I’ve been reading Morgan’s books for a few years now and can always find a new favorite or be excited to go back to her backlist and find one I haven’t read yet. Thank you, Morgan for writing some of my favorite books. I’m so grateful for this arc and can’t wait to see all that’s to come !!! And your trad debut, which I am SO proud of you🧡
- Pop Star x Her Publicist
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Escaping to a Small Town
- Mutual Pining
- Anxiety Rep
- Forbidden Romance
Thank you so much Morgan and House Of Hearts Lit for the gifted e-arc of The Lie Of Having It All, out now !!!
Morgan’s books truly will always hit a spot for me. This one, like her others, always hit a topic within its aspect of a romcom. Our fmc, Willa, is a pop star experiencing burnout and goes to our cozy small town, Holly Ridge to find her words again. The mmc, Leo, is her publicist who also escaped to the same small town first to find peace in the chaos of Hollywood.
These two have always been aware of each other more than they should in a workplace. So their tension? Could be cut with a knife. Goodness they were so tender with each other !!!!!!! Which is another one of my favorite things about Morgan. She truly writes soft love in the most beautiful way. Hardship will always happen, but love needs to be tender, equal, and respectful. And the way this was done here, wow.
I love that I’ve been reading Morgan’s books for a few years now and can always find a new favorite or be excited to go back to her backlist and find one I haven’t read yet. Thank you, Morgan for writing some of my favorite books. I’m so grateful for this arc and can’t wait to see all that’s to come !!! And your trad debut, which I am SO proud of you🧡
- Pop Star x Her Publicist
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Escaping to a Small Town
- Mutual Pining
- Anxiety Rep
- Forbidden Romance
March 19, 2026
4.5 ⭐
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thanks to Morgan Elizabeth for the gifted copy — all opinions are my own.
I have always loved Morgan Elizabeth; every book is quick, relatable and always spicy.
They are the perfect pallet cleanser.
Popstar/ Her Publicist (workplace romance)
A found family.
Small town Romance.
Second(ish) chance.
Grumpy / Sunshine.
Anxiety Rep.
Willa & Leo
We were introduced to Willa many books ago, even mentioned in other series.
But finally we got her story, and what a love story it was.
America's sweetheart, the popstar EVERYONE loves.
Willa is having the worst writers block and escapes to Holly Ridge to find herself outside of music. She has the summer off and needs to be able to find her muse to begin writing again and prepare for her next album.
Leo, a publicist needs to step back from the hustle and stress of work.
A bit of a workaholic until a health scare opens his eyes.
So why not completely renovate an old farmhouse, also in Holly Ridge.
A chance run in eight years ago turns into a forbidden love story.
They meet by chance at a coffee shop before discovering they will be working together.
After eight years of working together they end up escaping to the same town (unplanned of course).
Holly Ridge is a town I would love to visit and call these people my friends and family.
Throughout the story Willa Stone becomes just Willa with Leo.
Originally tasked with "keeping her out of trouble" and they are able to connect through the seclusion of Holly Ridge and truly be themselves.
**I would definitely recommend reading Holly Ridge books 1 & 2 even being interconnected standalones we see those characters throughout this book.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thanks to Morgan Elizabeth for the gifted copy — all opinions are my own.
I have always loved Morgan Elizabeth; every book is quick, relatable and always spicy.
They are the perfect pallet cleanser.
Popstar/ Her Publicist (workplace romance)
A found family.
Small town Romance.
Second(ish) chance.
Grumpy / Sunshine.
Anxiety Rep.
Willa & Leo
We were introduced to Willa many books ago, even mentioned in other series.
But finally we got her story, and what a love story it was.
America's sweetheart, the popstar EVERYONE loves.
Willa is having the worst writers block and escapes to Holly Ridge to find herself outside of music. She has the summer off and needs to be able to find her muse to begin writing again and prepare for her next album.
Leo, a publicist needs to step back from the hustle and stress of work.
A bit of a workaholic until a health scare opens his eyes.
So why not completely renovate an old farmhouse, also in Holly Ridge.
A chance run in eight years ago turns into a forbidden love story.
They meet by chance at a coffee shop before discovering they will be working together.
After eight years of working together they end up escaping to the same town (unplanned of course).
Holly Ridge is a town I would love to visit and call these people my friends and family.
Throughout the story Willa Stone becomes just Willa with Leo.
Originally tasked with "keeping her out of trouble" and they are able to connect through the seclusion of Holly Ridge and truly be themselves.
**I would definitely recommend reading Holly Ridge books 1 & 2 even being interconnected standalones we see those characters throughout this book.
March 22, 2026
thank you so much for the ARC, morgan!!
another one to add to my list of favorite morgan elizabeth books! her books always hit the spot for me, and this one made me giggle and kick my feet like a 12 year old girl (per usual).
leo and willa were so good together!! the push and pull, the banter, everything was chef’s kiss. leo’s attempts at battling his attraction towards willa were honestly cute. pointless, but cute none the less 😌 i’ll never get tired of seeing the grumpy guy work so hard against his feelings, because i know his restraint will crack sooner or later, and when it does? SO HOT.
i love a good character development as well, and i adored seeing willa become more confident throughout the story. as a recovering people pleaser myself, seeing willa grow into this bold and headstrong person who’s done taking people’s shit was incredibly refreshing.
the lie of having it all was the perfect romcom with banter, spice and yearning for dayssss. definitely pick this up if you’re in the mood for a fun and spicy superstar romance you can binge!
also, can we take a moment to admire the covers in this series?? they are STUNNING!! i can’t wait to have them all on my shelf.
🧡publicist x pop star
🩷grumpy x sunshine
🧡forbidden vibes
🩷found family
4.5 stars
3 chilis
another one to add to my list of favorite morgan elizabeth books! her books always hit the spot for me, and this one made me giggle and kick my feet like a 12 year old girl (per usual).
leo and willa were so good together!! the push and pull, the banter, everything was chef’s kiss. leo’s attempts at battling his attraction towards willa were honestly cute. pointless, but cute none the less 😌 i’ll never get tired of seeing the grumpy guy work so hard against his feelings, because i know his restraint will crack sooner or later, and when it does? SO HOT.
i love a good character development as well, and i adored seeing willa become more confident throughout the story. as a recovering people pleaser myself, seeing willa grow into this bold and headstrong person who’s done taking people’s shit was incredibly refreshing.
the lie of having it all was the perfect romcom with banter, spice and yearning for dayssss. definitely pick this up if you’re in the mood for a fun and spicy superstar romance you can binge!
also, can we take a moment to admire the covers in this series?? they are STUNNING!! i can’t wait to have them all on my shelf.
🧡publicist x pop star
🩷grumpy x sunshine
🧡forbidden vibes
🩷found family
4.5 stars
3 chilis
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