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Bleeding Stars #2

Drowning to Breathe

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This is a previously-published edition - ISBN13: 9781938404955

The danger in pretending is it becoming real...

Sebastian Stone, Sunder front man and guitarist with a rap sheet about ten miles long, escaped to Savannah, Georgia, to get away from the trouble he’d caused.

Not find more of it.

The moment he saw Shea Bentley, he saw beneath all her sweet and innocence to something that went deeper.

Darker.

Their relationship was built on secrets; their love built on lies.

Sebastian never imagined how deep her secrets went.

When the past and present collide, Sebastian and Shea find themselves fighting for a future neither believed they deserved. Their passion is consuming and their need unending.

Now, holding the truth in his hands, Sebastian is faced with sacrificing everything he’s come to love to protect Shea and his family.

Two pasts intertwined.

Two lives bound.

Will their demons drown them or will Shea and Sebastian finally learn to breathe?



Drowning to Breathe is Book 2 in Sebastian and Shea's two-part duet. Their story begins in A Stone in the Sea.

376 pages, Paperback

First published August 25, 2015

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6558 people want to read

About the author

A.L. Jackson

95 books14.6k followers
A.L. Jackson is the New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary romance. She writes emotional, sexy, heart-filled stories about boys who usually like to be a little bit bad.

Her bestselling series include THE REGRET SERIES, CLOSER TO YOU, BLEEDING STARS, FIGHT FOR ME, CONFESSIONS OF THE HEART, FALLING STARS, REDEMPTION HILLS, TIME RIVER, and MOONLIT RIDGE novels. Start your binge with the first book in her latest series, From Here to Eternity! A broody single dad, a heroine on the run, and all the steam and suspense!

If she’s not writing, you can find her hanging out by the pool with her family, sipping cocktails with her friends, or of course with her nose buried in a book.

GET TO KNOW ME EVERYWHERE

Website: www.aljacksonauthor.com
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Text "aljackson" to 33222 for special updates!

Want to know what music inspires my books?
I have book specific playlists on Spotify!
https://open.spotify.com/user/1255231879

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5 stars
4,646 (48%)
4 stars
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3 stars
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78 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 866 reviews
Profile Image for Molly McAdams.
Author 56 books8,904 followers
July 13, 2015
There couldn't be anything more perfect than this follow up to A Stone in the Sea.

I got to read this book as AL Jackson wrote it, and "perfection" was a constant thought as I did. I love this series, I love these characters, and I LOVE AL's writing. She puts the most beautiful words together for such a poetic feel that tugs at your chest.

Definitely a must read once the book is out ... but you HAVE to read ASitS first!
Profile Image for Karen Mc .
1,105 reviews770 followers
August 21, 2016
Drowning to Breath is devastatingly beautiful, brilliant, and imperfectly perfect---a mesmerizing and meaningful masterpiece---and one of the best books I ever read. Raw, rousing, and one hell of a remarkable roller coaster of a rock star romance, Drowning to Breathe sings to your heart and soul and leaves you drowning in a sea of mixed emotions.Like a fishing pole to the sea, this sensational story pulls your emotions out of you.

Drowning to Breathe resumes where A Stone in the Sea ended: Hanging off a giant cliff--- as in cliffhanger--- that left destruction and darkness in its wake where Baz and Shea are really drowning to breathe. Don't even begin your Drowning to Breathe book date without a box of tissues handy as this story will grip your heart and leave you gutted, gasping for air, and trying to grasp the emotions that are filtering through you like and endless stream. From the very first page, you will likely start bawling like a baby as this beautifully broken yet blissful book bends, breaks, binds your heart and soul repeatedly throughout this emotional and enthralling experience.

"My girl, bent in half and broken in two. All that blonde drenched, like a swilling river overflowing with pain. Around us, chaos howled like a demon. A hurricane. A f**king devastating storm. Dark. Dark. Dark. For once, I saw none of her light."

Baz is left utterly gutted, teetering between hurt and heroism, devastated from the disaster of secrets and lies Shea bestowed upon him...her...them. Though Shea is so broken that only her handsome hero, Baz, can save her, pulling her out of the depths of darkness and into the light.

Drowning to Breathe is not just a story but an emotional and enlightening experience that elicits an ocean of feels.Feel for the characters who come to life as if they are sitting with you telling their story. Feel every emotion that they experience. Feel every hardship they endure. Feel each heartbreak that breaks your heart too.

Brace yourself as the tears continue to flow like a river throughout this story:

"I gave you my f**king heart, Shea. All of it. Wanted to claim Kallie as my own. Wanted everything with you, and now it turns out I know nothing."

Shea and Baz have a burning but beautiful connection from inside to outside---where dark and light collide---and pain is absorbed, shared and understood with a mere look. Together, they are each other's pain. Breath. Lifeline. Escape. Love. Loss. Hope. Dreams.

Love often entails the ultimate sacrifice. Baz, being the knight in shining armor, may have to walk away from Shea to save her from eminent danger and protect her from further despair---even if it breaks them both. But damned if Shea is going to let him leave without a fight, and deal with the darkness without her light. Her life. Her Baz.

"Do know want to know what I see when I look at you, Sebastian? I see someone who takes the burden of the entire world and places it on his shoulders because he somehow thinks he deserves that weight. The one who'd bear it all if it meant those he loves would suffer a little less. I see someone who's made mistakes just like the rest of us. Just like me....I see a man who's loyal. Devoted...I see the one I love."

The past collides with the present, exposing more secrets, demons, and despair that could sink them all. Panic engulfs Baz as he flees from Shea in an act of bravery, sacrificing himself to save his other half as a path of destruction gains momentum, threatening to destroy the couple who has already sacrificed so much to stay afloat. Shea and Baz need a life raft before they drown in the sea of darkness.

"Sebastian. Without him, I no longer knew how to breathe."

John Legend could write this couple's song as All of Me screams Shea and Baz:

My head's underwater,
But I'm breathing fine.
You're crazy and I'm out of my mind.
'Cause all of me
Loves all of you.
Love your curves and all your edges.
All your perfect imperfections.

Drowning to Breathe spun my emotions around like a hurricane--- anger, happiness, sadness, frustration, and most of all hope.Hope for that much fought for happily ever after the hell that this perfectly imperfect couple has endured. AL Jackson's perfectly penned words are poetic, poignant, powerful, and pull at your heart. Relentlessly. My heart was tugged so hard when reading this story that it turned into an experience---an enthralling, emotional, and exceptional experience---with an immersion so gripping and gut-wrenching that I was rendered with a deep connection that stayed with me long after I turned the last page.

Five stars are simply not enough for this emotional roller coaster ride. Drowning to Breathe definitely left me drowning in my emotions, bobbing in the sea for more of this masterpiece that matters.I can't wait for the next book in this series as I'll be nursing a book hangover for a long time from the penetration of this devastatingly beautiful story straight into my heart.

5 broken, brilliant, and imperfectly perfect stars though this story is worth so many more
Profile Image for A.L. Jackson.
Author 95 books14.6k followers
May 12, 2017
What do I saw about Drowning to Breathe? I'm pretty sure this one will go down in history as the most difficult book I've ever written. I struggled because I wanted Shea and Sebastian's story absolutely perfect after A Stone in the Sea. I ended up rewriting and rewriting and rewriting again until my heart was so full of these three I hardly recognized myself. I'm so in love with these characters, their lives and their hearts and their desires, and I hope you feel them the same way I did as I poured them into the pages. Enjoy.
Profile Image for Kassidy.
340 reviews11.5k followers
Want to read
November 18, 2016
I just couldn't get through this book. I got to the half way point and realized I just didn't care what happened in the end. The plot did not interest me. I will probably read the next 2 books since they are about different characters and new story lines.
Profile Image for Ash.
383 reviews39 followers
October 18, 2015
Its over!?!? by why is it over!?!?!

OMG THIS BOOK!!!!!!! Book one was fucking beautiful, and this was no different! I loved EVERY SINGLE WORD, OR EVERY SINGLE PAGE. Jackson has a way with words. READ.THIS.BOOK.

A Stone in the Sea was a cover lust buy. And a title buy....and just like that book, you can't look at this cover and title and NOT want to read it. I know that only 2 of the books in this series are Shea and Sebastian's......which is really sad, because I LOVE, Love, Love them....but I also loved the other guys from Sunder and I can't wait to get to know them better.

come find me:
www.facebook.com/ReadsAsh
IG: ash.reads Twitter: @ReadsAsh
Profile Image for Natasha is a Book Junkie.
691 reviews4,754 followers
September 19, 2015
FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED:

“I never knew there was happiness like this. And then there was you.”

The stunning love story between a troubled rock star and a single mum trying to escape her painful past that began in A Stone in the Sea gets its grand finale at last in this wondrous work from an author who never stops stealing our breaths away with angsty, emotion-driven romances that are as all-consuming as they are superbly written. We watched them meet, fight their attraction, and eventually succumb to the devastating pull between them, never knowing that their lives were destined to be intertwined from the very beginning. As Sebastian and Shea prepare to face their greatest fears, Ms Jackson takes us on a riveting journey of passion, love, selflessness, and friendship, where every dazzling word serves to bewitch us, and its every emotion becomes our own.

“… we can run as hard and as fast as we want, and until we put our pasts to rest, they will always catch up to us.”

Sebastian Stone might have found the love of his life in a quiet bar in Savannah, Georgia, her selfless heart quieting his demons and abating the raging inferno that has consumed his soul for so long, but Shea Bentley’s past has come back to haunt them, promising to rob them of all they’ve fought to build between them and all they cherish the most in life. But even as their greatest weaknesses are used against them, Sebastian and Shea’s connection never wavers, becoming closer and closer each day, and giving each other the strength and courage to fight back. And nothing, not even time or distance, can diminish their love for one another or their constant craving for each other.

“I loved Shea Bentley and she loved me. It’s where it started and where it ended. Nothing before or after or in between mattered.”
Once a perennially angry young man whose devotion and loyalty to his brother and band mates used to define him, their safety his only purpose in life, Sebastian never thought he would ever find or deserve a love like Shea’s, a love that would fill all that was missing in his life rather than steal away from it, and in that love he finds the acceptance he never dared to hope for. Her compassion, kindness and willingness to love him even at the risk of breaking her own heart heals him, redefines him, and eventually shows him the person he wants to be. And in her arms he finds the family he always dreamed of.

“When I look at you, I see a future I never thought existed, Shea.”

Now facing a powerful enemy who is capable and willing to destroy them both, while forced to be apart as his band goes on tour, Sebastian and Shea’s love remains vibrant and strong, never tested and never dimmed, both of them trusting one another implicitly. But when past and present suddenly collide and painful secrets are revealed, the young lovers must find a way of holding onto each other even as storms starts closing in.

“I’d do anything, give it all, make any sacrifices to keep them safe. To keep them happy. To keep them together. No matter the cost.”

There is something so beautiful in the way Ms Jackson brings these characters to life, in the way their passion pulsates off the pages, almost visceral in its intensity, their every emotion given a quasi-lyrical dimension as her masterful prose weaves the story before our eyes. The dramatic, rhythmic pace of the sentences remains one of the key characteristics of this story, mimicking our own heartbeats at times with the thump-thump thump-thump of their tempo and amplifying our emotions with the sheer poetic quality of those verses. I felt hypnotised by this story, by its characters, by their powerful connection, and only wished for some of that intensity to be carried over to other aspects of the storyline as well, especially moments of aching angst. My heart only kept expanding as the story progressed, and I wouldn’t have minded it shattering a few times too, trusting this author to make the pain as exquisitely addictive as its more enjoyable counterpart.

“I was doing my best to rein it in. But those urges were there. The need to fight and defend. Fists and fury and unrelenting rage. To stand up for my family. To make it right.”

Another unforgettable romance by a much loved author, another must-read story to tug at our heartstrings—I loved its every word, and would recommend it unreservedly.

“Do you see me, Shea?”
Never had I seen anyone so clearly. “I will never look away.”

[4.5 STARS]



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Profile Image for KAS.
317 reviews3,116 followers
February 10, 2017
4.5 Stars

Sebastian Rocks! (pun intended)

Perfect ending to a beautiful duet!

As soon as I finished reading "A Stone In The Sea", which I loved and which also ended in a cliff hanger, I dove straight into this second book, which solidifies Sebastian and Shea's love forevermore!

I continued to enjoy the roller coaster ride of their relationship and was totally satisfied with the ending.

This series continues on where we get up close and personal with other members of the band "Sunder" and also Sebastian's brother, Austin. I can't wait to see where life is going to take them. If these next few books are as well written with the same gutsy, angsty attitude as these first two, I am in for quite the exciting ride!
Profile Image for TJ *Book Twins Reviews*.
1,183 reviews2,604 followers
April 27, 2017
“Lost beneath the surface where she became the air, my air. Drowning to breath.”

A.L. Jackson ramps up the sweet and sexy in this follow up to Book 1 in the Bleeding Stars series. Drowning to Breathe is beautifully written and so romantic! Baz is perfectly imperfect! Shea and (her daughter) are too cute. The Sunder bandmates and Austin were great secondary characters. It all just worked.

What I loved: This book combines so many elements I adore in romance - marriage, babies, instant families, cute kids, with a large dose of drama. If you’ve followed my reviews for a while, you know I love cute kids (in books - LOL) and Callie was super cute.
The main and secondary characters: The love and dedication between Shea and Baz is lovely. They’re a perfect match.
The secondary characters: I cannot wait to see how the rest of the band mates evolve and the women who knock them on their behinds. It’s going to be so much fun.
The storyline: the plot, storyline, and added drama was intriguing. I was thoroughly entertained and engaged throughout.

Overall, a very well-written and solid romance. I rate it: 4.5 Stars

Audiobook review: Sebyo and Andi Arndt. That’s pretty much all I need to say, right? It was awesome!
Profile Image for Kelli C .
1,053 reviews362 followers
June 8, 2016
3.5 Drowning in Love Stars

Wow...that was DEEP! I thought book one was a bit theatrical and poetic to the point of too much, but the follow up was even more! Now that does not mean that I didn't enjoy the read. Because, Yes, I liked the story and I was happy with the progression and the overall ending.

Just like the first book, I found the writing to be deep and very lyrical. Everything was dire and moving...like a swift river of emotions that you couldn't escape. The angst and the emotions were at all time high and I am a total sucker for that. I loved that Baz didn't cut and run when the S*** hit the fan! I appreciated the open communication and the bond that he and Shea had even though everything was crazy fast and over the top full of love declarations. I especially loved that a little girl was kept innocent and able to find so much love and support from a man who was not her biological father. For me this story may have been a romance but it was also the finding of a family. Everything was as how it should have been after some 10 major bumps in the road!!!

I finished this read overall happy for Baz and Shea and Kallie. Happy for the HEA feel of the read. Happy that Sunder would not perish. I definitely would want more...to know what would become of Austin. I think his tortured soul deserves some of the happiness.
Profile Image for Rachel.
639 reviews38 followers
November 5, 2015
Overall rating: 5 "You see me, Shea?" stars!!

Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
Push/pull:
OM/OW drama:
Disclaimer:

HEA:

My review:

After that cliffy (non-relationship wise) in book 1 - I seriously had to jump into book 2!!! I was like omg my poor baby Kallie! I was so glad that matter was resolved rather quickly and that the rest of the book was pretty damn awesome.

I think the purpose of this installment was to explain more about Shea's past and to show how Sebastian and Shea will make their relationship work with him playing music and all. I loved the progression of their relationship, including Sebastian birthday surprise and what followed :)

I was so upset when Martin Jennings (villain) pulled some shit to TRY to separate Sebastian and Shea (only physically, not "relationship wise"). That will make sense when you read the book, but no worries about anything ladies!!! But I was so so so glad that Martin got his f*cking ass beat!!! I was really hoping he would die, but you know what? Justice was served. I still don't forgive Shea's mom for everything she put that poor girl to, but I was pleased that she finally did the right thing and justice was served with her as well. I was glad that this author didn't all of a sudden make everything she did redeemable, just because she decided to do the right thing at the very end. She still got her ass served as well and it was well deserved.

Now, little Kallie. She has to be one of my FAVORITE little kiddos that I've ever read about! :) The scenes with her and Sebastian especially were so endearing that my face was about to split wide open with my smile and my heart just melted.

I can't say enough of much I enjoyed reading this book and series. Book 1 was a book I LIKED, but book 2, I absolutely LOVED :D

Here are some quotes/scenes that I absolutely LOVED! Read at your own risk of being SPOILED!!!!!!! ***************



The second her mouth met mine, I grabbed her by the hips, all too eager to give her one back. I kissed her sweet and slow, keeping it PG considering we had little eyes for an audience.

Still, Kallie giggled like it was the most scandalous thing she'd ever witnessed. "You give Momma too many kisses."

I pulled back, fingers still burrowed in Shea's hips. "What?" I teased, voice going deep with disbelief. "There's no such thing as too many kisses."

"Uh-huh," Kallie countered.

I passed Shea a smile, before I released her and took two measured steps toward Kallie.

"What, like this?" I grabbed her by the face and peppered loud, smacking kisses all over her angel face.

Kallie squealed, thrashing limbs and quivering chest that rolled with rasping laughter. "Stop, Baz! Those are tickle kisses!"

"Can't...stop," I drew out between kisses, making her squeal more.

Kallie retaliated, tiny fingers latching onto my ears, and she scattered her own noisy kisses across my cheeks. She jerked back, mischief and joy swimming in her eyes. "Got you!"

Laughing lightly, I nudged her chin with my index finger. "You got me."
One of the best scenes I've read with a hero and his woman's daughter. So so precious!!!



BEWARE SPOILERS AHEAD *****



Connor fussed, and I made a shushing sound and bounced him softly. "Think we need to get your baby brother into bed. What do you think, Little Bug?"

We moved on toward his room. Callie skipped along, glued to my side, voice a whisper. "I think we better. He's gotta be so, so tired. Momma kept him up so long 'cause she knew you were gonna want kisses 'fore he went to sleep."

I cast her a smile and proceeded to press a bunch of soft kisses to Connor's face.
Can this kid get any cuter??????


I knelt down at her side and listened to this amazing kid sound out the words that she was just learning, the butterfly book little more than a picture book with a couple of small words for her to make out.

"The end!" she said emphatically, all kinds of proud when she close the last page.

"Whoa, you read the whole thing? When'd you get so big?"

"Daddy," she admonished, "I'm growing and growing. You know in only four mouths I'm gonna be six and I'll be in first grade and then I'll stay at school all, all day."

I chuckled.

My little hurricane.

I put her book aside and pulled her covers to her chin, dropped a kiss to her nose.

"Goodnight, Little Bug."

She beamed up at me. "Goodnight, Daddy Bug."

Apparently, I'd gotten a promotion.
I can't freaking get enough of this kid!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Donna ~ The Romance Cover.
2,907 reviews323 followers
September 15, 2015
Drowning to Breathe (Bleeding Stars #2) by AL Jackson
4.5 stars!!

“Maybe we’re no good for each other, after all.”


Wow, AL Jackson does it once again. This was a fantastic conclusion to Sebastian and Shea’s story full of heartfelt emotion, intense character connection and a great deal of angst, everything I love in a book. But this book is not all about the emotion as we have a great plot running throughout which keeps you on the edge of your seat. After A Stone in the Sea we were left wondering ...just how intertwined were their back stories? Who could they trust? Who did what? All these questions are answered and there are some surprises too. The person you would least expect finally steps up to the plate...finally.

“The danger in pretending is it becoming real.”


I have to say Sebastian was totally and utterly perfect, we always knew he had a heart of gold, putting everyone first before himself, often making huge sacrifices to make sure that everyone else was safe or happy and nothing changes throughout this book. Yes he is a little hot headed but he tries his damnedest to keep it in check, but when you muck around with those he loves, it is actions that speak the loudest. Baz really wears his heart on his sleeve in this book and you really connect with him on a much deeper level, you really get to understand him and where he is coming from and this only endears him all the more. I adored him.

“When you get pushed up against a wall, you push right the fuck back, fists and fury and uncontained aggression.”


This is a book about understanding and forgiveness, coming clean, honesty, working together and overcoming the crap that life always like to throw at you. How being a cohesive unit is much better than trying to tackle life alone and how love can make the biggest difference of all.

“We’ve had a whole lot of bad in our lives.”


I loved the way that Sebastian and Shea battled through their problems, how together, as a team they were deadly, stronger and definitely smarter. How they had each other’s backs and would do anything to reach their end goal, which was to right the wrongs and just be happy. As ever, people try to rail road their plans, try to destroy them and living through this all with the intense gaze of the paparazzi makes this so much more difficult for both of them. Yes they make mistakes, but this is a learning curve for both of them, but once they realise how formidable they are together there is no stopping them.

“You’ve fought for everyone your entire life, and now you’re going to step down – bow out – when you finally have something worth fighting for? Fight for her.”


I really don’t want to say anymore because I don’t want to spoil it and this is one of those stories that is best read as the author intended...blind. Take yourself on this journey with this adorable couple, be whisked away by AL Jackson’s beautiful storytelling, be captivated by her lyrical prose and run the gamut of emotions as AL Jackson takes you on one hell of a ride. Life was never meant to be easy and while this is more sombre than A Stone in the Sea, the emotion and angst pulls you through, but there is always light at the end of the tunnel and this is where this book really shines. If any couple deserve happiness it is these two, but just what will it take to get them there?

“Find love and bring it here.”


Fantastic duet and I cannot recommend it highly enough, happy reading.

www.theromancecover.com
Profile Image for AC Book Blog .
1,003 reviews136 followers
July 11, 2016
Bleeding Stars Series (A Stone in the Sea & Drowning to Breath)
by A.L. Jackson ~ 5 Stars

“Love of a voice that was never really heard. Love of a face that was never really seen.”

WOW! WOW! What a story! Devoured both books in 2 days. So, here is the thing: I met this beautiful author in Vegas before I read any of her books – she was so nice and gracious btw … I have this series on my kindle and I cannot believe I waited this long to start ;( I am not going to be able to stop now… onto Where Lightning Strikes as soon as I am done with this review.

Sabastian is a lead singer and guitarist for the band Sunder. He and the band have it all – fans, fame and fortune. But Sabastian’s life is not perfect by a mile – he has a painful past that causes regrets, bitterness and a frequent temper which stems from his protective nature toward his family. Recent altercations with an executive producer sent Sabastian straight to a retreat in Savannah hoping he could lay low while his team cleans up the mess in LA.

Well, Sabastian was laying low alright!!! Wink wink wink One night out at a bar he met a beautiful waitress Shea Bentley. He was drawn to her right away and could not help but want to know Shea more. Shea has no time for distractions – she has responsibilities and also despises the lifestyle of a rock star. But Shea’s body and heart are betraying her mind – will she succumb to the bad mysterious rock star?

“He was both the sun and the darkest night. A promise of heaven and the curse of hell.”

Here’s the catch though -- Sebastian and Shea both have an abundance of secrets between them. Life is complicated, and when past secrets come to light will they be able to trust each other again? God knows everyone else (with the exception of his bandmates and her close friends) is jaded with lies and deceit.

A Stone in the Sea ended with a major cliff-hanger – no spoilers here… you just have to read!

The second book picks up where Sabastian finds out who the real Shea is. He could not deal with it. He ran out and left Shea devastated and broken hearted. This is a part where I was really mad at Baz for not thinking things through before leaving – but that’s how Baz is, a hot temper and hard headed. Thankfully it did not take him long to pull his head out of his arse and grovel his way back to Shea. So, the make-up part is always fun and HoT But Baz and Shea both realize that they are so much stronger as a unit and they are determined to get their life back together, to bring down those that wronged them. Justice prevailed in the end. Pretty sweet!!!

“But we can run as hard and as fast as we want, and until we put our pasts to rest, they will always catch up to us.”

I really love both main characters in this book, even the secondary characters and I am very excited to read about them in the next book. Shea is a strong woman. Despite what she endured in the past she was able to move on and take care of her daughter. I like the fact that she did not heat up the sheets with Baz right away – she is not playing games. Shea is genuinely concerned about attachment to someone who might not in it for a long run – she wants to protect her heart as well as her daughter’s happiness. Baz is sexy, talented, damaged but an amazing guy despite his temper. Deep down Baz is loyal, devoted, caring and protective of those he loves even if it means putting himself in vulnerable situations.

Shea and Baz’s story is touching, beautiful, emotional, and full of angst. At times, my heart hurts for them both … Their love for each other, however, is gorgeous - quite passionate, heart-felt, and sexy. The chemistry is very intense and scorching hot. There are also many cute, sweet and tender moments throughout the book, especially surrounding Kallie. Melted my heart how cute and innocent she is.

This is the first time I read AL Jackson’s books. It did take me a few chapters to get used to her writing style. I was a little bit distracted at first with the repeated words but I quickly attributed that to the poetic way she tells her story. It’s just her style. It’s gorgeous and I am totally digging it.

No doubt this is a fantastic read! AL Jackson, it is so nice to finally meet you and your beautiful characters!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE your stories and cannot wait for more to come!!!

“Sometimes when you welcome in something new, the old can no longer remain.”







Profile Image for Sophie "Beware Of The Reader".
1,567 reviews391 followers
September 23, 2015
4 to 4,5 stars.

I've got time to write something about this wonderful story, finally!

I gave 5 stars for “A stone in the Sea” and I could not wait to read the second book. AL Jackson never ever ended her books on a cliffhanger and she had to do it with Baz and Shea's story! Grrrr.

It goes without saying I did a happy dance when my preordered Drowning To Breathe downloaded on my kindle in the wee hours of the morning. Sadly, I had to work and wait a looong time before reading it.

I loved the book as I had all my answers about Shea’s past, enjoyed the dynamic between the band members, Shea’s new family and got to witness the sweet and fierce love Baz had for his Little Bug.
That hunk of a man is soo beautiful inside/out and he does not even see it! I wanted to kick him too when he took some wrong decision, ratcheting my heart rate in the process.

So, why not give it 5 stars too? Because the mystery and intensity of the first book were somewhat subdued. Baz and Shea know they’ll stay together so we’re not always wondering “will they or will they not?” therefore lessening the urgency of their relationship. But that’s the only complain I have about this book. Don’t worry, you’ll enjoy plenty of twists and turns and cross your fingers more than once! And you won’t have a cliffhanger, promise.

I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for ✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ .
2,332 reviews1,341 followers
September 18, 2015

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Just like the first book, this one is kind of star-less for me. I want to give 5 stars, because I love Baz and Shea and Kallie, but I just hate Amy's stlye of writing :( I'm so sorry, but I just can't help hating it.
For a detailed description of my dislike - check out my
A STONE IN THE SEA ► REVIEW ◄
I really love Rockstar-Romances and I really loved Baz's story too and I can't wait to read Lyrik's and Austin's stories next.
But the writing is definitely NOT my thing.

But please don't let me stop you from enjoying the great series!!! It's probably just my very own weirdness ☺

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Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews490 followers
September 14, 2015
I don't have any idea where I want to start with this review. I'm all over the board with my emotions. There were many times I thought my heart was going to burst from loving Drowning to Breathe. There were just as many times that I had to set the book down because my dislike for it became over bearing.

While A Stone in the Sea was a true story, it was fluid and had content that made you blood sizzle and your heart weep. This story was more like a personal journal. One you weren't quite sure you should be reading. It was too personal. As if the thoughts you'd normally keep to yourself were on display for everyone to read.

Shea's and Baz's love bordered on being obsessive. It took over the story so much so that there was little content otherwise. There was a story, a sweet one, but AJ went into so much description about this all-consuming love that it became repetitive. We get it, they love each other, can we move on now?

There was also no break; when you weren't reading about their love, you were reading about some twist that was out-of-this-world huge. A normal person or relationship would break from the turmoil but somehow Baz and Shea grew capes because they experienced multiple issues. Huge ones. Their obsessive love story just kept trekking along. As a reading, it was exhausting. There wasn't a peak in the story for it to taper. It was just a constant assault.

I fell in love with Shea and Baz in A Stone in the Sea, and I couldn't wait to continue on their journey in Drowning to Breathe. Unfortunately, I felt like I was drowning a bit in the book. ~ Kelly, 3.5 stars
Profile Image for DKristin.
494 reviews224 followers
February 5, 2016
I bit the bullet and bought the audio book so I could stop pussy footing about getting this read and I am glad I did... awesome story!

I'M SO FREAKING EXCITED TO READ MY ARC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Profile Image for Nance.
1,602 reviews115 followers
September 6, 2016
This promises to be one thrilling ride! Baz and Shea are the perfect couple! They both have their baggage, but it's their love that's carries them through the ups and downs. This author writes with such emotion and heart, that I couldn't help but shed a tear here and there. And, their friends?? They just blend in as they support one another through the good and bad. Couldn't get enough of this group of friends.

Full review to be written soon...
Profile Image for Natalie  ~ The Biblioholic.
2,713 reviews1,419 followers
July 17, 2022
Well, I definitely liked this book more than the first.
Probably because it wasn't as vague this time around.
Probably because of all the cuteness that was Kallie. I can't resist when an author creates an impossibly adorable child.

It did take most of this book to finally put the pieces together of what Shea was keeping from Baz. And I really didn't blame her for keeping it a secret. Dude was ready to pop off for absolutely anything, consequences be damned.

Tons more flowery and poetic words, words on repeat, etc., but again... it worked for me.

I loved seeing these two grow as a couple. Yes, there were obstacles in their way. Yes, they had to work out how to juggle his career and their family to make everyone happy. But they were willing to put in the work, they loved each other, and it was beautiful to watch.

I'm very interested in finding out what happened to Baz's little brother, Austin. All of those years taking care of him and now he's struck out on his own. What kind of man will he become?

Find more on the blog

Profile Image for Aure #SlavaUkrain  .
468 reviews99 followers
March 2, 2017




5 WOW STARS!

This book was very difficult to read and I suppose it was even more difficult to write. After how the first book ended I honestly didn’t know what to expect.

In this sequel the story dives deeper and a lot of the unanswered questions from book one are answered, but I shall not spoil you!

Not going to lie, it was difficult to read, not that it’s badly written, maybe because it is so well written. Author made me relate to these characters so much, although I had no such struggles in life like they did. And that I suppose says a lot about what a great writer A.L. Jackson is.

Also this book brings out the family values, which is very important imho. Especially the one that clearly shows that family doesn’t have to be blood related.

So to sum up, a beautiful love story that I recommend reading!

And I’m off to the next book!

Peace,
A.

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Profile Image for Betül.
1,067 reviews291 followers
September 5, 2016
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***The Danger in Pretending is it becoming Real***

First of all this is a sequel to A Stone in the Sea and continues with the same characters (NOT A STAND-ALONE!!). So if you haven't read A Stone in the Sea, be WARNED that this review could contain minor spoilers ;)

We pick up exactly where we left off in A Stone in the Sea. This book has cured me of my fear for cliffhangers, however I was impatiently waiting on this book since I read A Stone in the Sea on release day. I was dying to find out what would happen after the plot twist at the end of book 1. It really broke my heart seeing Shea in pain like that. I can't imagine how I would react if that happened to me.

"Do you really think you don't know me, Sebastian? Do you really think you don't know every single thing that counts? This room...this house... me being a mother to Kallie...loving you."

In A Stone in the Sea Baz had told Shea his secrets but Shea still had her secrets which she was reluctant to share. First I was like come on Shea be honest with Baz, but after reading why she didnt I totally understood why she didn't provide all the details. Baz is a very passionate man, he is a protector and can't stand to see his loved ones in pain. Shea kept her secrets the first half of the book because she wanted to protect Baz. She knew what would happen if she told him everything that happened to her. Baz would go and do something without thinking of the consequences. Like it was mentioned in the book he is and always will be a fight-to-the-death kind of guy.

"We're so much alike, Sebastian. You just wear all your scars here. On the outside."

I loved all the side characters: Ash, Lyrick, Zee and Austin. I am super excited that they all are getting their own story. I am especially excited to read Austin's book, who made a big step towards getting better in this book. I hate Jennings, he still was his evil self, trying to ruin everyones lives.

"And here I stood, covered in Shea's light, cloaked in her darkness, surrounded in her scent of satisfaction, lost beneath the surface where she became the air. My air. DROWNING TO BREATHE."

This book is one of my favorites of 2015. I have read every full-length novel by AL Jackson and love all of them, she doesn't disappoint! I am looking forward to what she has in store for us in the future.
Profile Image for Annie's reading corner.
492 reviews30 followers
May 10, 2016
Lo disfruté más que A Stone in the Sea, me sigue pareciendo que algunas cosas suceden muy rápido para mi gusto, dada la magnitud de ciertas decisiones, pero queda obvio que la historia de Sebastian y Shea es intensa y va a toda marcha.
Del resto de la serie, la historia del hermano es la que más me llama la atención para leer por los momentos, tiene mucho potencial, pero si creo leer en algún futuro los demás.
Profile Image for Amy .
3,120 reviews
September 8, 2015
4.5 Captivating Stars!

“I felt comfort and surety in the choice we’d made. The jump we’d taken. And together, we fell. Fell into the song, our fingers finding their own rhythm on the strings. Fell into the words, our spirits and tongues coming together to tell our story. Fell further into beauty. Fell into a sea of stars that blinded my eyes. Where we floated in a high place that belonged only to us. A place that didn’t belong to the world”

I don’t know about you guys, but ever since I finished A Stone in the Sea, I have been waiting to get my hands on this book. We were left with one crazy, and I mean crazy cliffhanger and I just had to know what happened next.

Drowning to Breathe picks up right where A Stone in the Sea left off. Shea is left reeling after Martin takes Kallie away. Her connection to Martin nearly destroys Sebastian. Of all people for Shea to share a past with, why did it have to Martin? Shea is now in the fight of her life, having to not only get her daughter back, but to also salvage what is left of her relationship with Sebastian. Will Sebastian be able to move past the lies that were told? Will Shea be able to beat her past and finally be able to live she deserves?

Drowning to Breathe pulled me in from the very first page. I got lost in the brilliance of AL Jackson’s writing. Shea and Sebastian’s story consumed me. The pages begging to be read and their story to be told. This book reminded me of why I love AL Jackson’s writing. Her writing and emotions are so real. So much heart and soul went into this story. I have been dying for a good, angsty read lately, and AL Jackson does not disappoint. With lines like these: “This….this was my penance. The payment for my sins. Punishment for every naive choice I had made. For every deciet I had blindly swallowed. For every lie that had fallen from my lips. But every one of them I’d told for her. To keep her safe. To allow us a life he would never let her live. But we can run as hard and as fast as we want, and until we put our pasts to rest, they will always catch up to us. Now mine had us in its grip.” or “I gave you my fucking heart, Shea. All of it. Wanted to claim Kallie as my own. Wanted everything with you, and now it turns out I know nothing.” I was lost. I absolutely did not stand a chance. The angst and the pain just pulled at my heart and demanded to be felt.

I don’t want to say too much, because I don’t want to give anything away. However, I will say this: this book was everything that I was looking for and more. Drowning to Breathe is well written, flawless and spellbinding. This story will pull at your heart. It gave me soooooo many feels. I loved the angst, the romance, the drama and all the secrets and lies. I was consumed with the characters and their story. I fell more in love with Shea and Sebastian, if that’s even possible. And the side characters do not disappoint either.

I loved everything about this book from start to finish and can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,631 reviews419 followers
September 7, 2015
Review by Lisa Kane

Drowning to Breathe picks up right where A Stone in the Sea left off. Sebastian and Shea heads are reeling with Martin Jenning's legal pursuit to remove Shea's daughter, Kallie from her home. Shea is devastated but Sebastian had no idea Kallie's father was alive, yet alone was his mortal enemy Martin Jennings. We learned about Jennings' involvement with Sebastian's friend Mark's death in book 1 and how something horrible happened between Jennings and Sebastian's brother Austin. Sebastian feels betrayed and is gutted to his very soul over Shea keeping something this big from him. Does he even know who this girl really is?

Sebastian has come to love Kallie and thinks of her as his daughter. He thinks he is responsible for Jennings actions to hurt Shea and wonders how he can stay in her life after this. He will get the best lawyers and spend whatever it takes to get Little Bug back with her mom, but he thinks he needs to step away. Of course that isn't going to fly with Shea.

Even with the short time they have spent together, these two have suffered so much and have come to realize that they are both in this for the long haul. Despite the pressure from the press, or the strong arm tactics Jennings may come up with, they have to stay together. Breaking up is not an option.

Things may be calm now, but Sebastian's life with his band Sunder must go on and that means life back on the road. Shea can't just pick up and travel with the band. So separations are inevitable and they will have to learn to make the best of them. But being apart can only make their hearts (and other parts!) fonder and by the time they are able to have a quick weekend while Sebastian is on tour, things heat up!

But you didn't think it would be that easy did you? Jennings has lots of things up his sleeve. But his greed and need for revenge will open up wounds that have festered and secrets may just be exposed.

Drowning to Breathe is an easy, slightly angsty read that ties up Shay and Sebastian's stories. But there are more novels planned for the other members of Sunder-Lyrik, Ash and Zee and even Austin, Sebastian's younger brother is getting his chance to find his own HEA.
Profile Image for Kathy Coopmans.
Author 77 books2,690 followers
September 4, 2015
Have you ever come across a book/series that grips you and leaves you so emotionally spent? This is the one for me. It's raw, it's real and it is has left me utterly breathless. I've been shaken to my very core, in a brilliantly written way.
What can I say about this story. Two words. STRONG LOVE! That's it. I could carry on writing pages of how AL Jackson has torn my heart, stomped on it and then so eloquently pieced it back together with a love story so deep you are right there with Shea and Baz. But I won't.
Instead, I beg you all not to deny yourself of what I'm going to admit in my opinion has topped off one of the best sequels I have ever read.
It's a mastermind creation to the level of perfection.
Pure golden words etched across my kindle. I ached, I devoured and I sat here at the end with one of the biggest smiles on my face.
Thank you AL Jackson, you sweet brilliant WOMAN!
Profile Image for Chris- Bookaddict.
778 reviews253 followers
September 17, 2015
Amy has wrecked me, I want my own Sebastian Stone!!!! God these two people, this author she just blew me away with this story!!!!
Profile Image for Susan Staudinger.
733 reviews10 followers
September 8, 2015
A TIMELESS LOVE STORY THAT'S POWERFUL, EMOTIONAL, AND SINFULLY SEXY!

Drowning to Breathe is an intoxicating blend of sexy and sweet, served up with a side of intrigue. Intense and passionate, Sebastian and Shea’s love story is an unforgettable journey that’s guaranteed to captivate your heart. It’s powerful, emotional, and sinfully sexy! A perfectly “imperfect” love story that grabs ahold of your heart and refuses to let go.

With eagerness and excitement, I dove into “Drowning to Breathe” and devoured each and every word. Beautiful in its execution, the conclusion to Sebastian and Shea’s story was laid out perfectly. Satisfying the emotional impact I desperately craved, not once was I disappointed. From start to finish, there were moments that made me smile, moments that made me cry, and moments that made me swoon. There were surprises I rejoiced in and bittersweet scenes that broke my heart. Without a doubt, I fell fast and hard for Sebastian Stone, but the sweet and tender moments between him and Kallie had me falling just a little bit more.

Following the brutal, agonizing cliffhanger from “A Stone in the Sea,” I was left stunned and heartbroken. I wondered… where do Sebastian and Shea go from here? Could their love possibly survive? There were many issues that needed to be addressed--questions that required answers; situations that begged to be resolved. But despite the destructive turmoil that the lies and secrets had left in its wake, the emotional and physical intensity between Sebastian and Shea remained intact. Their love a constant, I sighed in relief and grinned with delight.

Back in all his villainous glory, Martin Jennings continues to make his presence known. His prevailing malice towards Shea and Sebastian is never far from mind. Set on vengeance and ready to strike, Martin lays in wait, lurking in the background. Now joined in a game of cat and mouse, their once separate lives have connected in an ironic twist of fate.

To offset the foreboding Martin Jennings, we have the unwavering loyalty of Anthony and the band members. I love their devotion to Sebastian and how readily they extended it to Shea and Kallie. The ease with which they welcomed Baz’s “girls” into their lives was nothing less than heartwarming. Who knew that these hard-core rock stars could be so firecely protective and yet so sweet?

And then there’s Austin… the broken boy that Sebastian is desperate to fix; the brother he’d do anything for in order to protect. My heart bleeds for Austin as he continues to be haunted by the ghosts of his past. Without drugs to bury the guilt and fear, some of Austin’s demons slowly become unmasked. But despite new insight into Austin’s pain, there is still much to be learned and a great deal of healing that’s yet to take place.

“Drowning to Breathe” is a fated love story woven within an intricate web of heinous deeds, treachery and deceit. Nervous anticipation kept me on edge, as I hoped for the best while fearing the worst. As the story unfolds, hidden truths come to light, culminating in a surprising revelation. With past atrocities finally exposed, Sebastian and Shea’s future becomes less certain. Suddenly, they’re free falling without a net. Still, I held out hope that a “happily ever after” remained within their grasp.

With artistic elegance, AL Jackson delivers an enthralling love story laced with passion and suspense. It’s alluring, sensual, soulful and poetic. Powerfully gripping and emotionally consuming, “Drowning to Breathe” is everything you crave in a romance novel and more. It’s a timeless love story you won’t soon forget!


11 reviews1 follower
September 28, 2015
Wasted money

I had an optimistic ideal that the writing would improve with the second book in the series but how I was so so wrong. The repetitive and I mean repetitive internal dialogue of the main characters Shea and Sebastian were repetitive in their topics and repetitive and predictable in their storyline placement because it was repetitive. Get my point?!?! The author needs to take some more creative writing classes before I will purchase another novel.
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