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Just Jack: Everything Laid Bare

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Being Lily Parnell’s best friend came effortlessly for Jack. Growing up together, Jack loved Lily and was fiercely protective of her. For almost all of his life all he wanted was to make her happy. When she was happy he was happy, except Lily lived a world away from him now and Jack missed her dreadfully.
As far as Jack was concerned there had never been a time in their lives where they hadn’t shared everything and he valued their special bond. In recent years Lily’s ambitions took her overseas and even with an ocean between them, Jack still managed to support his best friend.
One day something changed everything between them and their relationship began to shift. Lily had carved her own life and after observing a scene involving her, it made Jack take a close look at his own.
Life post-Lily left Jack feeling confused and he decided to take a difficult decision, never realising the potential fallout from doing something he strongly felt was the right thing at the time.
With his life laid bare and as a simple, uncomplicated guy he thought he had finally figured things out. Women loved Jack but they had all come and gone in his life apart from Lily. She was always there until one day she wasn’t.
A revelation by Lily left Jack feeling betrayed and abandoned by the one person who he thought he could rely on no matter what.
During his journey from that moment on Jack faced more separation and loss than he could have ever imagined. How would his experiences shape him as a man and would he ever find it in his heart to forgive?

334 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 18, 2015

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About the author

K.L. Shandwick

54 books1,435 followers
K.L. Bio
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Website > http://klshandwick.com/
K.L. Shandwick is an international bestselling author of over twenty-five novels. She writes New Adult, Contemporary Romance, and Romantic Suspense stories. Her writing is inspired by imperfect people; each striving to carve out their own piece of happiness from life. Her emotional novels have gained a loyal following for her 'real to life' characters who sometimes face challenges in their quest for love. Many readers have fallen for her book boyfriends and when K.L. isn't writing, she lives in the English countryside with her husband and enjoys live music and socializing with friends

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Available in ebook, paperback, and in some cases, audio and foreign editions:

Everything Series
Enough Isn’t Everything
Everything She Needs
Everything I Want
Love With Every Beat
Just Jack
Everything Is Yours

Exhale and Move On

The Last Score Series
Gibson’s Legacy
Trusting Gibson
Gibson’s Melody
Piper: A Last Score Spin-Off
Last Score Box Set

Ready For Flynn
Ready For Flynn, Part 1
Ready For Flynn, Part 2
Ready For Flynn, Part 3
Flying Under the Radar
Ready For Flynn Box Set

Missing Beats

Notes On Love

Free to Breathe

Souled

Another Life

LuvLuck Series
- Lucky Break
- Lucky Chance
- Lucky Star
- Lucky Valentine
- Lucky Man

Wild Romance Saga writing under Kelly Shandwick
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Pulsetunes Rock Gods
Until Jude Book 1
Until Levi Book 2
Until Deakon - Book 3
Until Korry - Book 4
Until Greg - Book 5

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Community Reviews

5 stars
88 (62%)
4 stars
32 (22%)
3 stars
17 (12%)
2 stars
2 (1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah.
514 reviews
August 21, 2015
Well firstly I just need to say that I'm so glad KL did a book for Jack! I absolutely loved it and was so great reading about him, his life, his thoughts and feelings and his side of his relationship with Lily.
We first met Jack in the Everything Trilogy as Lily Parnell's best friend. He was always great to read about and was so funny too! In this book that didn't change...although we did get to read about how HOT he is too! lol
Jack is a 'one night stand' kind of guy for the most part since his break up with Rosie. He's not really into finding someone special or to get himself into a relationship. He has a great job that he loves and tbh a lot of willing women! His view soon starts to change after he is sent on assignment with Rick Farr's band and meets Mya, Rick's 20yr old niece!
Jack goes through a lot in this book, there is a lot of emotion in parts, so much so that I was in tears at one point!
Jack is a great guy, always there for his friends and family. Still there for Lily even when she's not in the same country! I think Jack definitely comes into his own more in this book, he realises many things about himself and about his relationship with Lily. Especially since meeting Mya.
I don't want to give anything away so you'll just have to read it! lol But I will say that KL has excelled herself with Jack's story. I was hooked reading it, it takes you through so many emotions and of course we get more of all the characters from the Everything Trilogy!
I think it was a perfect ending to his story, and I've already suggested an idea for her next book after getting to the end! lol
I highly recommend this book...absolutely loved it!
Profile Image for Joanne Mountford.
317 reviews23 followers
March 23, 2016


Jack the lad. Jack the joker of the pack. Jack the journalist. Jack the loveable guy. Jack the ladies man. Hmmm no chance he's just Jack to me.
I read The Everything Trilogy and fell in love with Jack's character. I just knew he was someone I wanted to hear more about and thankfully I was not disappointed. When you build an image in your mind of what would happen or how you see him then read his story it's even better than you could have imagined.
Jack loses Lily to Alfie, not that Jack ever had Lily in that sense,but they have been a lot closer than most best friends. It's time for Jack to find himself. For him to see where his future is taking him without Lily by his side.
'just Jack' takes you on one incredible journey. First we have the socialising Jack. Going clubbing with his friends Dave and Sam, meeting new friends, okay hook ups, one night stands or two in Jack's case, huh? Yep he's up for anything, literally.
Jack has trouble facing up to a few things, although everyone thinks he's happy go lucky, he is terribly unhappy with how things are turning out and hearing a few home truths is a shocker for him.
Jack goes on a adventure, no one knows where or what he's up to but it's a journey that he hopes will help him discover himself.
On Jack's return from his long adventurous holiday things do not go according to plan. He is definitely back in the real world.
His life has hit the all time rock bottom. He is disliking Lily something I never thought I'd see and avoiding her like the plague.
She kept something from him, something very important and he is struggling as to why and what it all means.
You know what they say though, once you hit rock bottom there is only one way and that's UP.
Jack was meant for better things in this life. He has so much to offer. He goes on tour with Rick Fars and if you read The Everything Trilogy you will know that this tour will definitely do Jack the world of good.
Fun and laughter are the perfect medicine, that and Rick Fars niece, Mya.
Mya and Jack actually become great friends and he's frighten to ruin that and clearly he doesn't want Rick on his back.
Once Jack returns home life becomes very complicated. There is so much going on, everything is happening so fast the poor guy hasn't got time to think properly. Only thing he knows is what's right and what he feels and that will see him through.
I am bursting to give you all the details but I know that would be unfair of me. Trust me when I say whatever you thought you seen Jack doing with his life, it will not be that LOL.
He will however get is happily ever after because let's face it he's not just Jack, he's Jack Cunningham the Jack we all love.
Profile Image for Debra.
27 reviews
August 20, 2015
I just finished reading " just Jack" and it has touched my heart like no other book ever has. I was introduced to Jack in KL Shandwick's "The Everything Trilogy" and I just loved everything about him. Jack was sexy, a smart ass, loving, caring and very devoted to his friends and family. In "just Jack" you get to see more of that but you also see Jack go thru a series of revelations and life changing events that make him more then just Jack. This story has everything..humor,betrayal,tragedy,romance, love and we can't forget about the steamy hot sex...omg. It had me laughing,crying and getting very hot. Once I started I couldn't put it down. This is most definitely a MUST read!!
I have read all of KL Shandwicks books and have loved them but I have to be honest and say this one is my favorite.
KL Shandwick you did it again !! You totally Rock !!
Profile Image for Ashley Heather.
218 reviews8 followers
August 20, 2015
There is a book comes along once in a while that makes you sit up and go wow !
This for me is one of those books. I absolutely loved this!

A really great book to me is one that you can't stop thinking about, when your not able to read straight through because of the actions of life getting in the way. So when your doing the motions of chores or taking care of small children your mind is elsewhere imagining the lives of the characters, the storyline you've read so far and the possibilities of where the story will go. Questions and questions swirl in your head and your literally itching to grab the book back up and immerse yourself back in its world! This is how I felt with this book to the point I picked it up and just read and read and read, in my head I kept thinking one more chapter until at 3.15 in the morning I realised I only had the epilogue left !!!

This story is about Jack, a character we first met in the authors Everything Trilogy (which is also an amazing read) I loved the character of Jack in that series so when I heard that Jack was getting his own story I was ecstatic.
I was expecting to enjoy this book after really liking the character from that earlier series but wow this totally went above my expectations. I love how KL Shandwick can have me laughing then crying and then swooning at the story she unfolds. I don't want to give any spoilers away but I will say this provided me with a huge curve ball I didn't see coming too. All my thoughts while reading were blown out of the water with revelation and I loved it !

KL Shandwick always delivers a wonderful story that captures the reality of life in the fiction form, bringing the vulnerability and struggles characters endure into her writing. I love her style of bringing in the relationships and actions of all characters and showing many factors can have an effect on choices and the way life plays out.

In short this story has everything and I'd wholeheartedly recommend it. Well done Ms Shandwick you never fail to blow me away.
Profile Image for Elmarie Pieterse.
257 reviews2 followers
August 21, 2015
I LOVE KL Shandwick's books I've fell in love with her work from the Everything Trilogy and that's where I met Jack!!! I was so excited when I heard he was getting his own book!!! Omg I don't even know were to begin!! This book kept me up at night for hours cause I just couldn't put it down!!! It was so funny and heartbreaking at the same time!!! Jack is this funny outgoing character that has a line for everything you throw at him But then life hits him.......

OMG KL Shandwick you have written a phenomenal book and you had me in tears and in a fit of laughter so many times. I loved this book so so so much!!! Thank you yet again for giving us a HOT, Fun, interesting and on the edge of your seat kind of book!!!!! #Fanforlife
Profile Image for Tammy Dove.
65 reviews
August 20, 2015
If you love Jack from everything series you will fall in love with him again in Just Jack.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews186 followers
August 20, 2015
There's not a book that K. L. Shandwick has written that I haven't absolutely LOVED, and Just Jack is no exception. LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!

Jack Cunningham has spent his life being Lily Parnell's best friend. He has always been protective of her, and always always wanted to make her happy. Somewhere along the line, he fell in love with her. He missed her terribly when she moved to the US. Women loved Jack, so he spread it around, as they came in and out. As Jack has decided he still loves the one girlfriend he had, he finds out that Lily has kept something major from him, so he takes some time off to figure out what he really wants in life. When he gets back, he meets Mya, and finally learns what love is. When a HUGE lie comes out, will Jack be able to put the past to rest, and move on with Mya?

WOW WOW WOW! I loved The Everything Trilogy tons, but I'm so very glad Jack's story was written. As usual, K.L. Shandwick does a fantastic job with character development. I loved Jack in the other books, but fell in love HARD with him in this book. More to the point, it was EPIC being solely from his POV. The author has a great talent in writing in such an emotional way that it grips my heart and won't let go..I physically felt Jack's pain. It takes a brilliant author to get me mad at a favorite female character from a favorite series, but she pulled it off, as I really wanted to choke Lily for keeping that secret. GREAT book, K.L. Shandwick! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend!
Profile Image for Jacquie.
98 reviews9 followers
August 21, 2015
Well, have to say KL Shandwick has outdone herself again. We met Jack Cunningham in The Everything Trilogy as he is Lily’s best friend.
We see Jack as the British larrikin. He was purely delightful and during the whole series there was just something about him that you so needed to know more about.
So when I heard that KL Shandwick was writing about a book around Jack’s take on life it was quite a pleasant surprise.
We see him in the previous book as this sexy, fun loving guy who will do anything pretty much for Lily and his mates. However he floundered a bit when Lily went in a different direction with her life with Alfie and her band.
So this book was a complete eye opener into how he was going. When the book starts off we see Jack with Rosie. However Jack is just not settled and decides to call it quits with Rosie.
What happens after that is Jack living up to his larrikin persona. He is very flirty and certainly gets quite the attention from the ladies. And he does go off on a bit of a bender.
But this story is about Jack just basically finding himself. Turning from a young man into an adult man.
Jack decides to go on a journey of discovery. One where he is hoping to find peace within himself and his life. To basically take a break from everyone. To find Jack and reaffirm who Jack actually is.
After months away Jack returns and is ok for a bit till something happens that changes him and his relationship with Lily.
During this time Jack is offered a short time away with his job traveling around with a friend’s band. There his meets Mya, the lead singer’s niece, and is completely smitten with her.
They have their moments since there is a 5 year age gap. However this story brings us their journey together and you can see how much Jack has matured as an adult. And how great they are as a couple.
Jack moves on with the next stage in his life which includes Mya but I am telling you there is a huge surprise that completely broadsides Jack and that is all I will tell you. I was gobsmacked!
With this book I can tell you, there is lots and lots of steamy and very well descripted sex scenes. In fact, steamy panty melting scenes. Jack does not disappoint!
The book is a long one. Something that we tend to see from KL Shandwick. I love that though. You get a richer, fuller bodied story and one that is certainly more than what you pay for.
So give just Jack a chance. You won’t be sorry.

Profile Image for Ann Meemken.
349 reviews3 followers
August 21, 2015
I met Jack as one of the characters in the Everything Trilogy and I loved him. I love his quick wit and his smart mouth. He is charmer, so lovable and a good man.

Jack's story is one self discovery. He has felt lost and alone since his best friend Lilly has a new life. He thinks it is time he finds himself.

His journey is both heart warming and pulls at your heart strings. KL Shandwick you did it again, another amazing story. I can't wait to see what you come out with next.
Profile Image for Dawn.
158 reviews
November 8, 2015
Jack and Lily,Lily and Jack that was the way it was growing up as best friends they were always together,always there for each other Jack always protecting his friend, that never changed now they were all grown up.Lily had moved away she was getting on with her life and Jack missed her,her friendship,the closeness.Now the ocean separated them Jack found himself alone he had women…..lots of women, he had his friends his work but he missed Lily even though they stayed in touch as much as possible.Jack had been in a relationship with Rosie but realising it wasn’t going anywhere and he didn’t think he cared for her enough he ended it leaving Rosie broken.Jack isn’t happy, hes at a crossroads in his life so sets out on his own personal adventure away from his hometown,his friends,no communication whatsoever and its here Jack finally finds new purpose in his life after 6 months he returns .Wanting to right a wrong he sets out to see Rosie but all doesn’t go to plan,things have changed and Rosie has moved on shes happy. When a secret comes to light Jack feels broken and betrayed by the one person he thought he could count on.Taking a job on tour with Rick Farr and his band Jack meets Mya, Ricks niece, he feels something for her,shes different shes young,innocent kind and giving and doesn’t want anything from Jack as so many women have in his past.Can they build a relationship will Jack finally find peace and love with Mya?When the past comes back to Jacks present his life and Myas is thrown into turmoil can Jack finally step up and be the man he knows deep down he really is?Will he keep Mya by his side?And will he find it in his heart to forgive the one person he never thought would hurt him?

I loved this book Jack was such a complex character he loved women, the one night stands,the lifestyle but the more you get into this story you realise hes just jack, he justs want to be loved he doesn’t want the endless one nighters.He hides behind his wittiy banter and one liners.He has a sensitive caring side to him which I loved.This book brought out all my emotions its funny and yet heartbreaking in places,its steamy and passionate,touching and moving ,the story is also about friendships and learning to forgive when you feel utterly betrayed.I didn’t want this story to end but sadly it did but it took me on one hell of a ride!!!!
Profile Image for Emma Louise.
34 reviews22 followers
August 21, 2015
Well, well, well Ms Shandwick you have hit the ball out of the court again and scored a well deserved 5 stars from me, Jack may be an ordinary guy. But you have given him an Extraordinary story, with a beautifully written book.

The trilogy was AMAZING, i loved Alfie and Lily story, but the relationship between Lily and Jack was prominent through the first book, but by book 2 his witt and humor through this book made him a loveable character. Taking him from the trilogy and giving him his own story was an impeccable decision.

Jack where do we start, he loves Lily. She is his best friend, they are a force to be reckoned with when they are together. But Lily leaves him, for the first time he is left by himself and he takes advantage of this, becoming a 'jack the lad' and finding he is becoming lost with numerous women, he loses himself.

He leaves and becomes a person he has always aspired to be, he wants to be seen beyond his good looks, beyond being a great time in bed, beyond being the party man. He wants to prove he is a man, he may not be living the 'Rockstars' life but he wants to build a life for himself. With a massive twist and one conversation with Lily his life changes. He is completely torn up she could have ever held such a secret from him.

Just when he thinks his world is coming together and he finds his true love, will this secret make him more of a man or break him apart. The path he thought he was taking is now turning into a mountain hard to climb...

K.L.Shandwicks work for me has always been compelling, gripping, and easy to read. There is never any hardship sitting back and devouring a good book. And thats what KL's work always does, once I turn the first page her words grab me and take me away. A beautiful read and I can't wait to see whats instore for the future for this writer.
Profile Image for reading the sheets.
267 reviews8 followers
November 8, 2015
Jack and Lily,Lily and Jack that was the way it was growing up as best friends they were always together,always there for each other Jack always protecting his friend, that never changed now they were all grown up.Lily had moved away she was getting on with her life and Jack missed her,her friendship,the closeness.Now the ocean separated them Jack found himself alone he had women…..lots of women, he had his friends his work but he missed Lily even though they stayed in touch as much as possible.Jack had been in a relationship with Rosie but realising it wasn’t going anywhere and he didn’t think he cared for her enough he ended it leaving Rosie broken.Jack isn’t happy, hes at a crossroads in his life so sets out on his own personal adventure away from his hometown,his friends,no communication whatsoever and its here Jack finally finds new purpose in his life after 6 months he returns .Wanting to right a wrong he sets out to see Rosie but all doesn’t go to plan,things have changed and Rosie has moved on shes happy. When a secret comes to light Jack feels broken and betrayed by the one person he thought he could count on.Taking a job on tour with Rick Farr and his band Jack meets Mya, Ricks niece, he feels something for her,shes different shes young,innocent kind and giving and doesn’t want anything from Jack as so many women have in his past.Can they build a relationship will Jack finally find peace and love with Mya?When the past comes back to Jacks present his life and Myas is thrown into turmoil can Jack finally step up and be the man he knows deep down he really is?Will he keep Mya by his side?And will he find it in his heart to forgive the one person he never thought would hurt him?
I loved this book Jack was such a complex character he loved women, the one night stands,the lifestyle but the more you get into this story you realise hes just jack, he justs want to be loved he doesn’t want the endless one nighters.He hides behind his wittiy banter and one liners.He has a sensitive caring side to him which I loved.This book brought out all my emotions its funny and yet heartbreaking in places,its steamy and passionate,touching and moving ,the story is also about friendships and learning to forgive when you feel utterly betrayed.I didn’t want this story to end but sadly it did but it took me on one hell of a ride!!!!
Profile Image for Ann (Literary Lust).
1,659 reviews27 followers
September 7, 2022
I was a little nervous about reading Just Jack. Having already met Jack in The Everything Trilogy, I found that there were times when he became too much for me. As you can imagine, with this being his story I was a little worried that I wouldn’t enjoy my time with him. However, it only took the prologue for me to question my opinion of him. I could feel myself instantly warming towards him, and by the end of his journey - and this novel isn’t Jack’s story it is his journey – I absolutely loved the more serious Jack that he reveals to us.

I loved that this novel made me laugh out loud lots. However, there are also moments that hurt my heart. There are some unexpected relationship troubles that I’d never imagine could happen but were understandable. This story, like all of K.L. Shandwick’s stories, is very true to life and Jack faces some twists and turns in the path that he possibly assumed his life would take. I am so pleased I didn't miss this!

One of my favourite rockstars features quite heavily in this narrative – which I loved. It is always a pleasure being in the company of Rick Fars, lead singer of Cobham Street. If you have yet to meet Rick, he not only appears in The Everything Trilogy but has his own book ‘Exhale and Move On’ which I highly recommend to you to read. You’ll thank me later 😉

I am ashamed that the thought I may not enjoy this novel had even crossed my mind. I’m not going to say much more about this narrative except I know you will cherish witnessing Jack fall in love, just as I have. Who’d have thought Jack could be tamed? I can’t wait for you to discover who steals his heart!

4 stars.
Profile Image for Giusy  Luca.
888 reviews4 followers
August 26, 2023
Avevamo conosciuto Jack nella serie Everything, lui è l'amico di Lily, l'altra metà della sua anima, insieme erano inseparabili, l'ha sempre amata ma non si è mai concesso una possibilità con lei per paura di rovinare quell' amicizia che li unisce sin da quando erano piccoli. 

Quando Lily conosce Alfie il loro legame subisce un brusco cambiamento, non sono più Lily e Jack, il duo che tutti conoscevano, era rimasto solo Jack e questo lo faceva soffrire tantissimo, inoltre vedere il rapporto che avevano instaurato Lily e Alfie gli fa comprendere che quello che prova per Rosie la ragazza con cui sta da qualche tempo non è, e non potrà mai essere amore, perciò decide di lasciarla. 

"Rosie mi mancava molto, c’eravamo frequentati per un bel po’, ma era diventata più un’abitudine che una relazione costante e sincera. Lasciarla era stata una decisione difficile, ma sapevo che non sarei mai tornato indietro sui miei passi." 

La sua è una vita dissoluta sempre pronto a divertirsi in giro con gli amici, mentre le donne vedono un uomo sempre disponibile, ma Jack è molto più di questo vuole dei cambiamenti nella sua vita così decide di prendersi un anno sabbatico per affrontare un viaggio introspettivo, durante il quale farà chiarezza sui suoi sentimenti e su ciò che prova veramente per Rosie e per Lily. 

Passa dall'essere Jack il playboy a Jack l'uomo maturo. 

Al suo rientro delle rivelazioni inaspettate gli fanno rivalutare tutta la sua vita ancora una volta, anche il rapporto con la sua Lily subisce un duro colpo. Si sente ferito soprattutto da lei per avergli nascosto una verità che gli avrebbe stravolto la vita.

Grazie ad un incarico per scrivere un pezzo su Rick il frontman dei "Cobhan Street" si allontana per alcune settimane e qui incontra la donna che finalmente lo vede per quello che è "Semplicemente Jack". 

«Jack Cunningham, lo capisci sul serio, non è vero? Lo senti anche tu? Sai da quanto desidero saltarti addosso, mettermi a cavalcioni su di te e riempirti di baci?»

I problemi però sono sempre dietro l'angolo e la vita lo metterà a dura prova ancora una volta. Riuscirà a trovare la sua identità? 

«Una volta mi hai detto che non dovevo ricambiare il tuo amore ed è stato il regalo più grande che qualcuno mi abbia mai fatto. Mi hai insegnato cos’è l’amore incondizionato e voglio che tu lo sappia.»

Io amo, amo alla follia questa autrice, nonostante delle piccole lacune che trovo nei suoi libri come le troppe descrizioni che secondo il mio umile parere potrebbe snellire, non posso far altro che leggere qualsiasi cosa scriva perché ogni volta riesce a conquistarmi come fosse la prima volta. 

Ha la capacità di riuscire a coinvolgermi nella vita dei suoi protagonisti come se fossero parte integrante della mia vita. 

Una scrittura quella della Shandwick fluida, scorrevole e coinvolgente, non ne ho mai abbastanza, le pagine scorrono così velocemente che sono arriva all'epilogo senza neanche rendermene conto e appena finito volevo subito un'altra storia tra le mani targata K. L. Sandwich, ma già ce l'ho vero!! 😁😁 Adesso tocca a Rick, lui me lo voglio gustare piano piano perché amo alla follia gli MMF.

Ringrazio l'autrice per la copia ARC 
Profile Image for Faye Errington.
215 reviews18 followers
November 28, 2015
This is the first book by KL Shandwick I've read...

Jack is on a journey of self discovery ...

he feels like he's lost his bff Lilly to another man, he's always had her around fir him and now feels like he's lost her... so he set's out to find "Jack"

He goes through a playboy stage, string of one night stands and a anything goes...

Everyone thinks he's the life of the party, happy go lucky, always laughing Jack..

But underneath his façade he's so unhappy ...

So he begins his journey to free himself...

But on returning home he finds himself at his lowest.

Then he meet's Mya who can be the one to change everything...

Jack is a sexy smart ass, but also loving and caring and a really great guy...

Just Jack has everything you could want from a great book, Tragedy, Romance, Laughter and Hot Sex let's not forget that...

Once I started reading I just couldn't stop.... awesome book...
Jack is now one of my fave book boyfriends ...

I cant wait to read more books by KL ... amazing author, amazing book
Profile Image for Kim.
140 reviews8 followers
August 26, 2015
Love Jack!!

KL Shankwich has stolen my heart with her books! I'm glad I read this one, it's funny, sad and adventurous and full of humour. I just love that about KL's books. She had me going there for awhile and then she surprised me when Jack finally decided to grow up and who he figured that out with. Loved it!!
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
2,958 reviews47 followers
June 27, 2018
Wow oh wow! Jack is so mixed up for so long, the only part of his life that's straight forward is his work. His close friendship with Lily sometimes muddles and he has broken off with Rosie, he is spiralling out of control. This is intense and full of angst from the start, nothing is as clean cut as you imagine. Jack is complex and mixed up, blurred lines with friendship and love complicate how he feels until he decides to take time out. There were times I wanted to scream at Jack but at the same time I could understand where he was coming from, women have chucked themselves at him made sex an easy to come by thing in his life, love however has been elusive except for Lily. I felt both Rosie and Lily were wrong in what they did, both had plenty of opportunity to deal with the situation and didn't, Rosie up till then had been supposedly perfect. I am glad Jack's life takes a turn in the other direction with his sabbatical, his mind clears and though he still has issues to deal with he is more stable and grows up. My heart broke for him at times but I was also joyful at how things turn out, it was right for him. I lost myself reading this story it pulled me in different directions at times, it is emotional and as complex as Jack himself. I love Lily and Alfie, all the others including and most of all Mya and Ava. I am glad I read all the other books before reading this because it gave me the insight into the friendship that Jack and Lily had, their very strong bond and why any small misunderstandings feel much bigger and cause more strain. Jack is very much more than Just Jack, you will find for yourself if you read this. The last part of this story is pure romance and is absolutely beautiful to read.
1,557 reviews45 followers
July 27, 2017
Jack and Lily were the best of friends from a young age and as they got older and realised that they were developing feelings for each other, they decided to have a little distance, that was the most miserable time of their lives. With Lily meeting Alfie, Jack know he will always be part of her life, but not as import and now it would be Just Jack, and he had to work out the missing half of him.
After breaking up with his ex, Rosie because he wasn’t in love with her, he meets a girl called Gini and feels a connection, but it doesn’t work out.
Deciding to take a break from everything Jack heads away for six months and when he returns after trying to reunite with Rosie with no success, Jack takes the opportunity to tour with Rick’s band.
Seeing a music technician that stirs feelings in him, Jack is surprised to find out that it’s Rick’s niece Mya, even more surprised when Rick tells her it’s up to her, he doesn’t tell her what she can and can’t do. With Mya and Jack slowly becoming closer friends and with a little push, one night after a accidently kiss, Jack feels like he never has before.
After they left the tour and returned home, Jack knew he had to work out things with Lily. Holidaying with Mya, he realises that life is too short for what if’s and on a day that they should be so happy Jack gets news that will change their lives.
I loved happily ever after ending and how Jack although he was still Jack, he ended up with more than he could have ever imagined and was more than Just Jack.
Profile Image for Susan McWhinney.
737 reviews10 followers
July 9, 2023
Another brilliant read by K.L.Shandwick. Having met Jack throughout the Everything series, it was a book that I had looked forward to reading. Jack's story, from his POV, did not disappoint!
Jack, the playboy, did not think he would ever find the love like his bestie Lily had. He hated to admit he was envious of the way they looked at each other. He knew it was not that type of love he felt for his ex Rosie, which is why he let her go. It hurt but knew he had made the right decision. Lies and secrets make for a toxic outcome and Jack finds he can't forgive Lily for her deception.
This feel good story full of angst with what was happening in jack's life, to him finding himself on a self discovery and sabbatical, found that even though he had friends in his life that he thought he could not live without, he did. After 6 months away and still trying to find himself, back in London, he agrees to go on a 7 month tour with friend Rick Fars and his band Cobham Street. Here he meets Mya. Is she The One for Jack. Making friends and then feeling more than just lust, makes him realise that maybe she is the one!!
A great read and a heartwarming story with a few unexpected twists that lead to an unexpected HEA. Worthy of 5 stars
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
6,704 reviews140 followers
October 11, 2023
This is a really hard review to write and I’m really not sure I can do Jack’s story justice but here goes. We first met Jack Cunningham in the Everything Trilogy as Lily Parnell’s best friend and it’s now time for him to get his own story.
Jack isn’t looking for a relationship and since his last breakup one night is all that’s required. For once life is good, he is living the dream and loving his assignment with Rick Farr’s band and then he meets Mya the woman who should be off limits because of her uncle and suddenly one night will never be enough……..
I loved watching Jack grow as his story progressed and I’m not going to give you a review full of spoilers because you need to read this book with no preconceived ideas. It’s an emotional but entertaining read that’s heartbreaking yet heartwarming, it’s a story about betrayal and secrets and Just Jack touched me on so many levels. You know you have read something very special when the characters and their journey are still in your head long after the final word has been read and that’s exactly the effect this book had on me.
Profile Image for Ann .
1,769 reviews17 followers
October 29, 2023
*4 stars*
This is the story of Lily's sidekick, Jack, (if you've read the Everything trilogy series) that is truly a rollercoaster ride. All emotions were going up & down throughout the story as we get more than a glimpse of Jack than we've seen before. A lot of fun mixed with emotional moments. Sometimes I felt Jack was immature but you could feel him grow throughout. A great read and good extended extra edition...

After seeing his bestfriend Lily finally making a life of her own, touring with her band, Jack feels a bit left behind but his own busy career kept his thoughts away although he feels his life needing a change. He never had a problem with dating and being quite the ladiesman, his last relationship didn't end well. While trying to make amends, it doesn't really go to plan but when an opportunity comes up in his career, he'll be going in another direction that may end up changing his life forever, but when the past throws him a curveball, he'll have to decide what really matters in life...
Profile Image for Joe Kendall.
759 reviews10 followers
May 19, 2024
Wow. What an emotional rollercoaster. I loved it.
I always loved Jack in The Everything Trilogy, and I am so grateful he got his own story.
Just Jack is all Jack, but so much more.
Jack grew up knowing his best friend Lily was special. They had a very special bond, purely platonic, but it could have been so much more. Neither of them wanted to risk it.
When Lily found Alfie, Jack still couldn't resist pushing those buttons and winding Alfie up. Then he found Rosie a girl who captured his attention, but Lily was still front and centre. How could he lead Rosie on if her couldn't give her 100%.
And that is where this story starts. The aftermath of the breakup, the jump back on the horse, growing of self-awareness that follows.
This story had me hooked. The emotional turmoil, self-acceptance, and growth had my emotions stripped back as I felt the love, pain, and passion flow from the page.
This story is a beautiful reminder of the depth that lies within us all and the growth we can achieve if we just get out of our own way.
I highly recommend this book and author.
Profile Image for Bianca Gogos.
143 reviews3 followers
May 25, 2023
We have loved Jack since the beginning! Jack has always been such a strong and reliable friend to Lily. He knows what to say and do to help others feel better... so how could he mess up his own life so much? Maybe because it is all meant to be! Sometimes, we need to live and make mistakes, so we know a good thing when it comes into our life. Just Jack may be my favorite of the "Everything series."

Jack shows so much growth and understanding in this book, and Mya complements him PERFECTLY! Age is just a number, and Mya must be an old soul. She becomes the anchor Jack never had, and I love her for it.

Even through all of Jack's struggles, which had me yelling as if I was watching a movie... it was worth every second. I felt so much joy for Jack by the time I read the last sentence. My heart is full, and I am thankful for this story. It just reminds us how fragile life is and certain people have a specific purpose in our lives. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Dana McKee NOLA504NERDS.
532 reviews46 followers
October 22, 2023
I was recently introduced to K.L. Shandwick and absolutely love her work now. Her writing style is so immersive and detailed. It wasn’t hard for me to become emotionally connected to the characters. They’re so real and raw. Jack’s love for Lily and so fierce and all-consuming. I absolutely love this storyline and the way it unfolds. I’d wanted his story since I first met him in the Everything trilogy. He was such a fun character. It was great to see this whole other side to him and Lily and delve deeper into who they are. I love that we got to see a more vulnerable and raw side of Jack. I was completely invested from start to finish. This story was everything! While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the Everything trilogy first. Trust me, this book hits way different after you’ve read that trilogy.

5 Emotional & Heartfelt Stars!
NOLA504Nerds blog
Profile Image for Carmel's Addictive Nighttime Reads.
273 reviews10 followers
June 22, 2019
Just Jack can be read as a stand alone but to get the most from this book I would suggest reading the Everything Trilogy first to understand the bases of Lily and Jack's bond.

Jack and Lily have a relationship which if you didn't know them you would believe they were in a relationship but nope their relationship is much more than this but that all changes. This is just jack now.

Jack realises he wants what Lily and Alfie has and his current relationship isnt that. Jack needs to look at his life and make some huge decisions before his life spirals out of control. With some shock twists and moments ahead for Jack can he get through the road ahead?

Will jack find his happy ending? Will jack and lily still be as strong as ever?
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,267 reviews220 followers
August 16, 2023
5 Star review of Just Jack by K.L. Shandwick

I’m not sure where to start with this review. What a complicated life Jack has. His only constant whilst growing up was Lily Parnell. They were best friends for years, always there for one another, until Lily wasn’t.
Now, Jack is adrift, confused and feels betrayed and I felt for him. This was an emotional roller coaster of a read. This book was full of angst and emotions. Jack is such a complicated man and there were times I wanted to smack some sense into him.
There were times my heart broke for Jack. The growth his character went through during this book was heartwarming. This book pulled so many emotions from me whilst reading and was still with me after I finished the final chapter.

Profile Image for Debbie Loader.
1,035 reviews
August 22, 2018
Yes yes yes yes!! Whilst Rosie is definitely a bi-tch of the first order she had no right to do that, none. Lily who thought she was helping actually hurt Jack deeply.
I loved this story, Jack, who views himself at Just Jack feels lost without his sidekick Lily, what he doesn't realise is his soul mate is waiting for him and she appears tuning a guitar.
Profile Image for Kristi Musick.
80 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2019
Jack is just

Loved reading this book and encourage readers to read the everything series before reading this book. Great story! I loved the dynamics of seeing a best friend of the opposite sex come full circle. Jack’s growth and challenges are great to read as the characters become more complex.
Profile Image for Lisa.
856 reviews9 followers
March 19, 2023
Jack, oh, Jack the Lad

From reading bits of him in the everything trilogy, Jack is lilies BFF and a little more 😜😜

Until Lily meets Alfie, then Jack backs away to concentrate on himself,

Read the trials and retributions of Jack with a heavy heart, some tears and lots of fun 😜😜😜

You will not be disappointed in this book

An absolute must read by the amazing KL Shandwick
Profile Image for FS Meurinne.
Author 2 books135 followers
February 7, 2025
Jack Cunningham’s story was a ride full of emotions! I loved how raw and real his journey felt, his friendship with Lily Parnell is so intense, and when things fall apart, you feel his heartbreak. The way he struggles with love, loss, and forgiveness made me really connect with him. If you love a story that digs deep into emotions and gives you all the feels, this one is a must-read.
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