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More than Blood

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Orphaned at twelve, Max, Jamel, and Milo escape a dangerous group home. Their gripping tale of wilderness survival, unexpected friendships, and the discovery of a new family will captivate you.

In More than Blood, Max is a twelve-year-old who has everything he could ever wish for, living a life filled with laughter, love, and security. But in an instant, a catastrophic accident steals away his parents, shattering his world into a million pieces. Max's home is soon replaced by a group home, where he finds himself in an unfamiliar and threatening environment.

In this new reality, Max forms an unlikely bond with two fellow residents, Jamel and Milo. Jamel, a silent observer, has a heart as big as his spirit is resilient. Milo, on the other hand, is a quick-witted and resourceful character who exudes an infectious energy. Their friendship becomes Max's beacon in the gloomy home, lighting up his path as he navigates through the challenging circumstances.

The trio soon realizes the group home they've been placed in is far from safe, and fleeing becomes their only option. Max, with his newfound friends, devises a daring plan to escape, setting in motion a series of events that will test their courage, resilience, and the strength of their bond.

The heart of More than Blood lies in their thrilling journey into the wilderness, where survival becomes their only goal. The challenges they face along their journey are relentless, but the shared experiences in the wild forge an unbreakable bond between them. The hardships they endure and the triumphs they celebrate together gradually transform their relationship, evolving from friendship to a family found.

More than Blood is more than just a survival story. It is a tale of overcoming loss, the power of friendship, and the discovery of an unexpected family in the most unlikely places. This stirring narrative will keep readers on the edge of their seats, as they root for Max, Jamel, and Milo to find their way to safety and, ultimately, to a new home.

Kindle Edition

Published September 3, 2024

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About the author

Jen Johnson

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77 reviews3 followers
April 7, 2026
More than Blood is a heartfelt and emotional story that blends survival, friendship, and resilience in a powerful way.
Max’s journey begins with devastating loss, and the shift from a loving home to a harsh group home environment is portrayed in a way that feels both realistic and deeply affecting. What makes the story truly stand out, though, is the bond that forms between Max, Jamel, and Milo. Each character brings something different strength, quiet resilience, and energy and together, they create a dynamic that feels genuine and meaningful.
The escape from the group home marks a turning point, and from there, the story evolves into a gripping survival journey. The wilderness setting adds tension and unpredictability, but it also becomes a space where the boys grow, adapt, and rely on each other in ways that transform their connection into something much deeper than friendship.
What I appreciated most was the emotional core of the story. It’s not just about survival it’s about healing, trust, and finding a sense of belonging after loss. The idea of “found family” is handled with care and sincerity, making the story both engaging and moving.
Displaying 1 of 1 review