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Sealed #1

Sealed

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Note: Sealed is the first book in a continuing series.

Sealed: to conclude, establish, or settle definitively, excluding the possibility of reversal or loss; to decide irrevocably.

I'm leaving the naive, little girl version of myself behind in Pilot's Point, and good riddance to her. Here, I can be whoever I want, a whole new Avery far removed from the drama of that former self. This one isn't going to be afraid to take risks and go out on a limb or two. I'm done living in a self-proscribed bubble, always scared of the consequences of a poor decision.

There's so many new experiences in Baltimore, new people, new places. I'm entranced by everything here from the snow to the men. There is no shortage of hot guys in Baltimore. They say everything is bigger and better in Texas, but I must beg to disagree.

From the moment Kreed Jones touched his soft lips to my hand, his mouth is the only thing my brain wants to concentrate on. Those sweet lips that refused to kiss mine, refused to take advantage, God, I want them. I want them so badly, but...

Trevor Rossi is sexy as sin, and boy, does he ever know! He's gorgeous; that's a given. The playboy lifestyle he exudes calls to me, drawing me near the flame. I know I'll get burned, but would the end be worth one night in his arms? I am uncertain, still firmly on the fence, and after running into my professor, I'm even more confused.

Dr. James Saunders...James, as he insists...is handsome in his tailored suit, and the beautiful soul that shines behind those glasses of his, well, it's a temptation, for certain. He's off limits, and I think that's the appeal. It's wrong, oh so very, very, wrong. I just can't seem to convince my mind of it.

These three men keep looking at me like I'm a prize, not the game, and for the first time in my life, I'm free of me. I'm not standing in my way, not anymore.

The following story contains mature themes, strong language, and sexual situations. It is intended for an adult audience and is not suitable for young readers.

318 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2014

45 people are currently reading
293 people want to read

About the author

S.J. Sawyer

18 books167 followers
Hello, everyone! Thank you so much for your interest in me and my work. I hope everyone enjoys my characters as much as I do. They are all so delightful in their own way. So, about me, I'm a twenty something Okie girl who has a husband, three children, and some really awesome friends who work as my Beta Girls. I have a Bachelors degree in English Lit, minoring in Sociology. I've always wanted to be an author, and it is completely epic that I've had the opportunity to write and publish my work. I love to read just as much as I love to write. I try to do as much of both as possible. Please visit my site http://sjsawyer.me/home/ for all information and to sign up for email notifications on new work!

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5 stars
105 (47%)
4 stars
72 (32%)
3 stars
27 (12%)
2 stars
11 (4%)
1 star
7 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Claudia.
729 reviews24 followers
February 23, 2016
I liked it but that's it.

It didn't really do much for me since both the characters managed to annoy me.
I felt that a woman who was coming out of a relationship and supposedly had broken heart was to fast to give hand jobs to two different guys.
Not my cup of tea really.

I din't get the point of the ending and lack of sex but the SEal romantic sap.
I am still trying to figure out what the book was about.
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,303 reviews1,780 followers
July 1, 2015
Favorite Quotes:

“I’m just not cut out to join a nunnery. There is something about the thought of excruciatingly hard work like scrubbing tiles with a tooth brush, not to mention the whole vow of chastity thing, that tells me I should steer clear of any permanent life choices. Holy vows included.”

“I try to articulate a response, but my entire body is rebelling. My brain is shutting down as my heart starts pumping all my blood elsewhere. My lungs decide to take a vacation, and I find myself short of breath. Instead of trying to formulate a witty response, because there is no way possible that will happen under these conditions, I simply dance.”

“It’s cheesy, like baseball concession stand nacho cheesy, but I can’t help but feel my heart jump out of my chest at his words.”

“Looking into Avery’s eyes is sort of like looking into the sun. I can’t help but blink and wonder if I’m going to be permanently scarred.”

“Besides, I’m done with boys. You all have cooties.”

“There isn’t a lot in this world that scares me, but my sister is definitely at the top of the list. She has killer bony elbows and a damned good left hook.”

“Unique for my mother is about as back handed a compliment as you can find. She likes things that are cookie cutter plain and boring. Unique is as bad as finding a hair in your salad.”

“I think Avery is your other half. The peanut butter to your jelly. The peas to your carrots.”

My Review:

S.J. Sawyer has been a surprise find for me. Reading indie authors is often a gamble and I hit doubles when I stumbled into her listings. Her writing is witty, comfortable, easy to follow, delightfully funny, emotionally layered, and insightful. Her humor is varied from smart snark to “nacho cheesy.” She has somehow managed to write a steamy and sensual book while maintaining the key character’s virginity, much to the character’s chagrin. I enjoyed the variety of the vibrant characters, and was surprised by how entertaining it was to follow this group of young and adventuresome 20 something college students while they establish their odd relationships, which are rather unusual. Lucky for me, I have three more of these tales already loaded on my kindle as I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Lady Living  In Bookland.
481 reviews19 followers
March 16, 2015
Review to be posted on Ladies Living in Bookland:

So the story of Avery is one I've heard before. A girl running from her last, having moved from Texas to be with friends in Baltimore. With their guidance and support she would find peace with what she had lost back home. But under no circumstances did she want another relationship...
But would that be the case?

After meeting a few guys, the new girl on the block turned heads and the guys fell head over heels for her. Kreed got her attention and kept it. Despite a few other guys being on the scene their attraction was clear. I was banging my head a few times wishing they would get together.

I can't say I disliked the book because I didn't...it was an enjoyable read but the first 65% seemed long and it took me a while to start to feel the characters. But I did. And the last part of the story and how they finally start to accept what everyone else could see, despite their circumstances got me a little frustrated but there was a definite turning point in the story where I can say I enjoyed it.

An easy and enjoyable read but pleased I hung in to get the rest of the story. Can't wait to read the next book 'Teased' and see where the rest goes. There are a couple of characters I still have question marks with so hope to learn more in the next part of the story.

3.5/4 star rating for SJ Sawyers 'Sealed'.

Buy links

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00KP...

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00KPK4...

Goodreads link:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...

*review by Susan
**was sent this ebook in exchange for an honest review
***contains some sexual content - for over 18's


Profile Image for Helena BackOffMyBookBoyfrien.
14 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2015
Let me start by saying that I received a copy of this book for an honest review. At first my only coherent thought was that I enjoyed the book. Kreed is definitely worthy of the title of book boyfriend. He’s a sexy as sin Navy seal who chose the noble calling in an effort to rebel against his parents wishes to see him go into politics. Avery decided to move from Texas to Maryland to get away from an unhealthy relationship. She met Kreed as soon as she arrived and soon finds herself in the very enviable position of having her choice of sexy men. I love the characters in this book. They are real and they are flawed and they are confused. I love that the writer doesn’t shy away from writing relationships that are a bit unorthodox. I cannot wait for more Avery and Kreed and look forward to reading Trevor’s story!
Profile Image for Paige Morris.
Author 14 books20 followers
February 23, 2015
I received a copy for an honest review and since I was essentially told "It's good, me likey" isn't a good enough review I will clarify. I very much liked Avery and Kreed. I like that everything wasn't neat and perfect and that we got to know more about each character and none of them were perfect. I cannot wait for more of Kreed and Avery's story. Well written and worth your time.
Profile Image for Kimber Hellmers.
493 reviews9 followers
July 4, 2015
If you like virgin-heroine-meets-young-rich-military-guy-and-spends-the-longest-8-weeks-of-their-lives-falling-in-love-book? You'll love this. I had no idea it was a series when I started, but think the rest can wait. It was good, just not what I thought it was going to be. More family drama than I care for, but again. A good, easy read.
Profile Image for Cassandra Rector Riley.
47 reviews5 followers
September 3, 2014
You have to read this book !!! It's got it all love, sass, sexy , romantic , and of course your bad boy LOL ! I can't wait for the next one !!
2 reviews17 followers
August 15, 2014
Loved it! Can't wait for the next one!

Profile Image for Peggy Moore.
774 reviews32 followers
June 6, 2019
Avery and Kreen love story. How can you fall in love at first sight.They both say no but can't shake the feeling they have.
Profile Image for Michelle carter.
41 reviews
March 23, 2015
If your looking for a great book with an amazing book bookfriend. This is the book for you!

Ok...All I can say is if you haven't met Kreed you are so missing out! SJ Sawyer kudos to you I look forward to this series! I loved every character you brought to life starting with Kreed I so want him for myself. Then you have Trevor, Randi (Kreed's sister), Caleb, Claire, and of course Avery. The emotions you feel are a rollercoaster ride! You are going to feel the love at first sight, feel the heartache that someone can endure, the happy moments that are going to make you smile, definitely the parts that have you a little angry but then back to the parts that make you smile again. (Completely bi polar but in a good way)
You will walk throughout both lives with family,& friends.

This book is told in alternating POV Kreed Jones And Avery Bishop
No cliffhanger with hopefully so much more to come. This is the first book in the series followed by "Teased" and a novella "Severed" being third.

Avery Bishop is a beautiful girl running from the heartbreak she endured in Texas where she is from. She has golden blonde curls, gray eyes, with potty pink lips. With what she dealt with in Texas she is in search of a fresh start so picks up and moves to Maryland with her best friend Miranda Jones and Claire Randi's other roommate best friend.

" Sometimes you just have to run to find something better."

Kreed Jones is a freaking Navy seal who is OMG! He is total Alpha beautiful green eyes, body of steel (that chiseled), hello Navy freaking seal who is sweet as hell.. I so want him as my own. (Once you read this book you will too). Ok so Kreed has grown up in a different way then Avery they both had money but his Parent's had a lot of say in Kreed's career choices and the life he has lived til now. His father is a Senator and his mother is the wife of a Senator. Pretty explanatory right. He loves his sister Miranda (Randi) Jones dearly. He also has two best friends Trevor Rossi and Caleb.

Now I'll tell you a little about the book.. Do you believe in instant attraction? Well you will after you read this book while your so swooning. Ok so you have Avery who runs away from her hometown to get away from heartbreak to come face to face with complete hotness named Kreed Jones while he is home on leave. The mere touch of him sends electric currents through her with him feeling the same feeling. Neither of them have ever felt the electricity between someone else before. Well with the past that Avery is running from the with the extreme of swearing off guys of all kinds will she have the strength to not pursue the connection action she has with Kreed when it seems they are always put together due to mutual friends? Will Kreed be able to pursue a relationship with only being on leave 3 weeks before he has to go back to his present life of his career choice as a Navy seal?
Life is full of surprises will they be able to find their way?
To find out I would say read it! You won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for Charidy.
136 reviews2 followers
July 10, 2015
I will try to review without being a spoiler....
First off Sealed is the 1st book I have read by this author and I will be reading more. I am already on Teased.



The story is mostly about a young woman who has decided to start her life over. She left her home and moved to Maryland, she's already enrolled in college there and has a place to live (with her ling time friend Miranda). So now she just needed to get on with life. However, because she just got out of a long term relationship the last thing she wanted was to meet ANYONE... but sometimes you can not control everything and fate stepped in. She meets Kreed (Miranda's brother) who is home on leave from the Navy.. and he's not just in the Navy, he's SEAL!


Basically the stars aligned and two unlikely people are immediately taken by each other. Neither of them wants or needs a partner. She wants to really live, focus on school and meet people. He wants to enjoy his leave, avoid his parents (who you will want to slap, typical politician and wife with their heads firmly up their ass) and not get into a relationship. He's always avoided them because the Navy is his life.



S.J. Sawyer puts this story together so well. It's not just about a boy meets girl... the whole cast of characters are vitally important. The friends of both the two main people are crucial and even though you may think that the banter between them sounds immature, you have to remember that they are (for lack of better words) characters and it takes all types. You will soon feel like one of the gang and be in love with them, in spite of their quirks. Me personally, was swooning over Kreed and Avery and rooting for them. Yes, by the end of the book I was sobbing.... fyi rarely happens to me.

I can't wait to see what is in store for each of them in the rest of this series!!! Loved this book!

Profile Image for Tracey.
240 reviews
June 30, 2015
I couldn't wait for Kreed and Avery to be able to be together. Their time was too short together before he had to go back on duty from his leave and they remained apart for 18 months which is a lot of time that things could happen to change the dynamics of their relationship. At the very least they were able to communicate through letters and Skype but only at certain times while he was away.

This book is so good and it's hard to write a review without spoilers. There was so much going on that makes it difficult to review without divulging to much info.

Kreed is the sweetest guy that every girl would love to have. He is considerate, selfless, hot and definitely knows how to treat a woman right. I really like how they were able to get reacquainted with each other after such a long absence and to get over the absence. Does absence really make the heart grow fonder? Well once you read this book you will surely find out.

What impact will Macy, Kreed's mother, have on Avery and Kreed's relationship? She has never hidden her dislike for her and her feelings about her not being brought up properly to be Kreed's wife. Will she be able to talk sense into Kreed to marry someone more like his ex girlfriend Tori, will he end up with Avery or will he have to find or will he find someone new?

I recommend you read this book because it is an awesome read. I really couldn't wait to read Secured, couldn't put it down, because after reading the first 3 books, I really wanted to find out about what happens when Kreed comes home. And the outcome of what type of relationship they will have. I feel that both Kreed and Avery are good people and they deserve to be happy and away from those who feel the need to manipulate and control them. Not everyone wants to follow in their parents footsteps and become what career choice they made or decided for me. What are you waiting go get yours today!


Profile Image for Kristen.
83 reviews
March 18, 2016
Sealed is an intensely sweet, love at first sight romance about two people who are both trying to find their own way, and end up finding their other half instead.

The story begins with Avery walking through an airport, to meet her friend Miranda. Avery, after finally accepting that her ex-boyfriend will never be faithful to her, has decided to leave her life in Texas, in an attempt to make a fresh start in Maryland. A fresh start she is determined to make without any men messing with her heart...

Enter Kreed Jones. Kreed is back home, while on temporary military leave. With his job as a Navy SEAL, attachments of the heart are not in his cards. He just wants to have fun and spend as much time as possible with his sister, Miranda and their friends, before going back on duty. Until he and his sister pick up her friend from the airport...

I really enjoyed this book! I am not usually a fan of insta-love, but I think that S.J. does a fantastic job of showing both Avery and Kreed work through their fears and come to terms with accepting their feelings before acting on them.

Even though the story revolves mainly around Avery and Kreed, and is told from both of their POV's, there are some really great secondary characters (Miranda, Claire, Trevor, Caleb) that are also pretty important parts of the story, and help it move along nicely.

While Sealed doesn't technically end in a cliffhanger, per se... the ending does leave you wanting a bit more closure. This in an ongoing series, so I am hopeful that you will get to see Avery and Kreed's story progress as the series continues.

I'm definitely looking forward to reading Teased (book 2) which is Trevor's story!
Profile Image for Heather Schrader.
199 reviews9 followers
July 28, 2015
Four star read
I was given a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Avery is leaving the naive little girl behind in Pilots Point Texas. She's moving to Baltimore where she will experience many new things.
She wants Kreed Jones so bad. From the first time he kissed her hand to those sweet lips that refuse to kiss her.
Trevor Rossi's playboy lifestyle is calling to her even though she knows she will get burned.
Dr. James Saunders is her professor and off limits but he's a temptation she's willing to try out.
For the first time in her life she has three men looking at her like she is a prize and not the game.
She won't let herself stand in the way anymore she is free of her herself.

Really enjoyed this book.
Avery is not some weak heroine but a strong one who won't let anything get her down. Told in Avery and Kreeds POV we get to see them start a budding relationship despite Kreed being a navy seal and getting ready to leave again.
The banter between all the characters is light hearted and Kreed's parents are a dime a dozen let me tell you.
With the way the book ending I'm so looking forward to seeing more of Avery and Kreed.
Reviewed by Heather S. for the Art of the Romance
Profile Image for Leanne.
537 reviews47 followers
April 30, 2015
I'm kind of a little torn with this one.
I did like the story, even though it's kind of similar to other's I've read and it makes a great change to see a relationship that isn't all about the sex. I was totally invested and read it really quite quickly BUT...
I don't like Avery very much! I just couldn't connect. While I get that she's trying her hand at being a new woman, starting a new life, I just don't think she's going about it the right way!
A lot of other reviews are moaning about the ending...but we knew that was coming from very early on. It was no great surprise to me that SJ finished the book this way and it paves the way into a nice linking story for book 2.
I'm looking forward to getting stuck into book 2, particularly to see more of Trevor and also, hopefully Avery will turn things round for me!
Profile Image for Tina Wickham duckwald.
66 reviews8 followers
March 25, 2015
Loved this story!!!

There are many reasons why I loved this story. First off I am a sucker for military romances, and you couldn't ask for a sexier and kinder hero than Kreed Jones. I couldn't help but fall in love with this unselfish man. Second, the storyline was different and unpredictable, which I love. Even though the focus is on the two main characters, Kreed and Avery, I found myself wanting to read more about the other characters as well. Since this is book one, I know I will get my chance. For the other reasons, I don't want to spoil it, you will just have to read and find out for yourselves. I can't wait to read the second book Teased and enjoy more from S.J. Sawyer.
Profile Image for Witchy Richey's Booktastic Reviews.
1,100 reviews66 followers
July 13, 2015
I really need Kreed in my life!! Heck I would even take Trevor (I feel he has some kink, and I love the kink). These men are hotness personified. And Caleb, holy moly!

To be able to give us something this hot and keep Avery's innocence intact was truly amazing and somewhat annoying all at the same time. I love Avery's Texas kiss my butt attitude though. Plus the brief glance we go at her Mom was awesome!!

I really wanted to grab Kreed and say "do it, already"!!! LOL! He really must like blue balls and have values of steel! Such a great BBF.

I really thought I was going to get a huge love triangle between Kreed, Trevor and James but that was not the case. I think there may be something there but I will have to read the others to see.

Another great read from S.J.
Profile Image for Mick C.
1,670 reviews
May 6, 2015
Loved this story about 2 people who by chance meet and have the most amazing chemistry. One fights it and doesn't want a relationship as their priorties are already set...so they think...The other just got out of a really bad relationship, moves on to a different city for school and to get away from all of the drama, and wants nothing to do with a relationship of any kind. Then lets throw in some friends who intermingle and have their own "interesting" love stories happening and we have a book of awesomeness. Can't wait for the next installment.
Profile Image for Laura.
1,229 reviews11 followers
December 20, 2015
A Beautifully Sweet Riveting Romance

Solid five stars for this beautiful romance novel. The author did an amazing job. Kreed and Avery are such a sweet couple. Their romance is one of faith, honor and time. The supporting characters truly helps the reader see more into the main characters lives. The dialogue and chemistry are strong. You will feel like you're right there living the characters lives. There are a couple minor spelling and editing sections but it is so minor and does not take away from the story.
Profile Image for Marlyn Castro.
256 reviews4 followers
September 2, 2015
I love Military Love stories

I love Avery & Kreed! They are so cute in a sad way that I know too well. Trevor I think is a good guy at heart but maybe he was burned by a girl one to many times. Caleb is just a plan douche a threesome really?! With best friends one of which is his best friend's baby sister, really! That's just all kinds of HELL NO! I'm guessing Caleb wants to die at some point because I know for a fact that a big brother will kill for his baby sister.
Profile Image for Kristi Cramer.
Author 18 books56 followers
Read
October 4, 2016
I'm giving up before I regret giving it more time. (I made it to page 19, I think.) It already has three strikes against my personal preferences, being present tense, first person, and new adult.

So end result: This is one contest prize I'm going to skip.

For anyone interested, it did seem well written. I didn't spot any errors or have any problems with it, just that I wasn't interested. Probably safe to say I'm too old for it.
Profile Image for Alisha Cole.
Author 9 books103 followers
April 12, 2015
I love kreed!!! omg!!! and Avery and her country twang reading this book in the beginning I was worried about the characters and what was going to happen I was so curious that I couldn't put it down! I love when u can relate to a book so much that it feels like reality. This book did this to me absolutely deserves 5 stars can't wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Fran Gray.
277 reviews13 followers
April 25, 2015
*Spoilerish*

Kreed and Avery have a story of love at first sight. Neither were looking for their other half but a chance meeting brought them together. I really enjoyed this book. It was very steamy, and I wanted Kreed to give in to Avery soooo very bad...but he didn't :(
I'm desperate to find out how things end. Hopefully Avery can wait for him. I'd be very sad if he doesn't get his HEA.
Profile Image for Lynn Stookes.
Author 7 books75 followers
April 13, 2015
I absolutely LOVED this story! Kreed is super SEXY, Avery is incredibly sweet, but strong. I couldn't wait to jump into the next book. Definitely looking forward to everything in the future by the amazing Ms. Sawyer!
Profile Image for Emilee Ashley.
228 reviews2 followers
September 10, 2016
Lov e

I absolutely love Kreed and Avery. This book kept me hoping Avery chose Kreed I wasn't sure for a long while. Kreed is definitely the guy for Avery. Trevor is hot but he's not for Avery. Love this book. Bravo S.J Sawyer
Profile Image for Melissa Mendoza.
2,598 reviews55 followers
May 14, 2015
Cute

In love with Kreed, he's such a sexy Navy Seal. I really enjoyed tier love story. Curious to see what happens next
Profile Image for Casey.
230 reviews1 follower
September 11, 2016
Great read!

Sexy in all the right places! Sealed will keep you turning the pages. Keeled Jones is definitely your next book boyfriend!!
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