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The Wounded Warriors #1
Saving Sam
Sam Wallace entered the Air Force as a spoiled, rich boy. Years later, he emerges a changed and troubled man. None of this matters to Amy, his oldest friend and staunchest supporter. Perhaps the weary soldier might finally find solace from his nightmares in the arms of the girl who has always loved him.
The only thing that gives Sam hope his scarred soul might heal is the love he desperately wants, but doesn't deserve. Haunted by a war he can't forget, Sam struggles to move forward.
But the darkness in Sam is greater, deeper and more dangerous than anyone realized. Can he fight off his demons, or will Amy pay the price for his inability to let her go?
The only thing that gives Sam hope his scarred soul might heal is the love he desperately wants, but doesn't deserve. Haunted by a war he can't forget, Sam struggles to move forward.
But the darkness in Sam is greater, deeper and more dangerous than anyone realized. Can he fight off his demons, or will Amy pay the price for his inability to let her go?
191 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 20, 2015
35 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
J.M. Northup
28 books129 followersI'm a multi-genre author, editor, review, and book blogger as well as partner and CEO/CFO of NORNS TRIAD PUBLICATIONS.
I am a native Minnesotan who resides in Central Wisconsin. I proudly served in the United States Air Force and have a diverse background in aviation, nursing, the gas & oil industry, database processing, and operations management. I'm married to my best friend, Dusty, and, together, we have 2 beautiful daughters plus 4 grandchildren!
Find out more about me at my websites:
www.jmnorthup.com
www.nornstriad.com
I am a native Minnesotan who resides in Central Wisconsin. I proudly served in the United States Air Force and have a diverse background in aviation, nursing, the gas & oil industry, database processing, and operations management. I'm married to my best friend, Dusty, and, together, we have 2 beautiful daughters plus 4 grandchildren!
Find out more about me at my websites:
www.jmnorthup.com
www.nornstriad.com
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
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March 19, 2017DNF at chapter 4. I don't have time for books that annoy me.
Sam wanted to be interesting but I just couldn't get over how in the present and past he used Amy for attention and eventually sex. I didn't even get through the sample before Amy remarked upon how selfish and lazy he had been.
His PTSD may have influenced his need for her in the present but it didn't seem all that separate from his jackhole behavior in the past .
Amy was sweet but had abandonment issues that left her with a very low sense of self worth (he remarks upon this, so we know he used it to his advantage). She loves him and will take him any way she can get him. I honestly just felt like she was desperate and hopelessly in love with a douche.
On to better books...
Sam wanted to be interesting but I just couldn't get over how in the present and past he used Amy for attention and eventually sex. I didn't even get through the sample before Amy remarked upon how selfish and lazy he had been.
His PTSD may have influenced his need for her in the present but it didn't seem all that separate from his jackhole behavior in the past .
Amy was sweet but had abandonment issues that left her with a very low sense of self worth (he remarks upon this, so we know he used it to his advantage). She loves him and will take him any way she can get him. I honestly just felt like she was desperate and hopelessly in love with a douche.
On to better books...
July 21, 2015
I'm torn about this book. I thought the PTSD parts were well done and I really felt for Sam and everything he was going thru (even shed a tear or two). On the other hand I never thought of Sam and Amy as a couple. I didn't feel any connection between them. Almost like it was a relationship built on convenience instead of love. It just seemed like an unhealthy relationship even before Sam went to war and added PTSD to the mix. The author was true to life that there is no miracle cure for PTSD and I commend her for that. However, it left me with an unsettled feeling. Yes, they got their HEA but I don't feel like they will last since I never felt a "true love" connection.
February 28, 2015
A rather intense read, I was bawling like a baby at the end, so I couldn't give it any less than 4 stars, though I had doubts at the beginning, it took me some time to connect with the characters. I'm still not a big fan of them (Janie in particular really got on my nerves), but their story won me over nonetheless.
The author explained at the end that she did some research to get the facts right while writing this book, and you can really feel this attention to details while reading it, the story just strikes you as right.
Perhaps it's because I come from a family with a miltary tradition too (in the French Army), but the story and the characters' struggle with such a devastating illness as PTSD moved me, even if some other elements in the book didn't really do it for me.
The author explained at the end that she did some research to get the facts right while writing this book, and you can really feel this attention to details while reading it, the story just strikes you as right.
Perhaps it's because I come from a family with a miltary tradition too (in the French Army), but the story and the characters' struggle with such a devastating illness as PTSD moved me, even if some other elements in the book didn't really do it for me.
August 3, 2022
This book is the first in a trilogy. It is an erotic military romance, but with depth. It takes a look at the various wounds inflicted by the horrors of war and how the soldiers learn to live with them or get past them.
A portion of all the profits Simone and I receive will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Being a disabled veteran, this series is really special to me and I love this story!
A portion of all the profits Simone and I receive will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Being a disabled veteran, this series is really special to me and I love this story!
August 8, 2015
I'm truly disappointed because I wasted my monthly allowance from the Prime Lending Library on this book. The plot sounded amazing, but the writing was terrible. The characters' thoughts and feelings were all over the place, and the writing itself was very one-dimensional. I felt absolutely no chemistry between the characters and the lead female was written to be a doormat for the lead male.
DNF 25%
DNF 25%
own-to-be-read-pile
July 12, 2015A portion of the profits from the sales of this novel will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project by Simone Beaudelaire and J.M. Northup.
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woundedwarriorproject.org/donate
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woundedwarriorproject.org/donate
October 17, 2017
Beaudelaire, Simone
April 6, 2015
Saving Sam - The Wounded Warriors Book 1, by J. M. Northup and Simone Beaudelaire, is so well drawn it could have been an actual case history of PTSD. The authors have created characters with flaws and then brings those into play aggravating the male character’s PTSD. The family weaknesses have to be sorted out as well if Sam is to receive any kind of help and healing through those closest to him. Had this man come home from Afghanistan not affected by PTSD, there may have been a marriage and then a divorce because both Sam and Amy, his love interest, had severe self-esteem problems. But simple was not the case. This story was written with the purpose of understanding the psychology of PTSD and finding a way to begin healing.
From the hot, hot love scenes to the terrifying reality of flashback takeovers, the writing of this story flowed smoothly and couldn’t be more real. The authors have created believable characters and moved the Veteran through the effects of PTSD flashbacks and dangers to himself and others. Then actual therapies are shown to guide a PTSD sufferer in how to control the effects, though they will never be totally gone. There is great validity in this story about what needs to be done to understand and control PTSD.
The authors have purposely portrayed both Sam and Amy as flawed. In real life we all have flaws and weaknesses, some minor, some major. The characters are written as flawed for a reason and it couldn’t be a more perfect approach to helping Sam get the help he needed. Putting the characters through having to clean up their flaws and weaknesses in the story is a perfect example of what is necessary in real life in order to help the one suffering from PTSD. As in real life, if there is to be help for the one with PTSD, the people closest to them must also get beyond their own shortcomings and become stronger. The way this story is set up and led toward the final outcome is so real life, it shows both authors truly understand what PTSD actually is, how it affects everyone, and what to expect of treatment.
For those who have an interest in PTSD, any interest at all, or for those who want to learn more about what troubles a Veteran they know, this book is a must read. With a family member with PTSD, for me it was a walk through memories. The hard reality of this story relates to real life. Everyone should read at least one story like this to understand the ravages of this disease and how we can help those afflicted. I highly encourage the reading this true-to-life portrayal.
From the hot, hot love scenes to the terrifying reality of flashback takeovers, the writing of this story flowed smoothly and couldn’t be more real. The authors have created believable characters and moved the Veteran through the effects of PTSD flashbacks and dangers to himself and others. Then actual therapies are shown to guide a PTSD sufferer in how to control the effects, though they will never be totally gone. There is great validity in this story about what needs to be done to understand and control PTSD.
The authors have purposely portrayed both Sam and Amy as flawed. In real life we all have flaws and weaknesses, some minor, some major. The characters are written as flawed for a reason and it couldn’t be a more perfect approach to helping Sam get the help he needed. Putting the characters through having to clean up their flaws and weaknesses in the story is a perfect example of what is necessary in real life in order to help the one suffering from PTSD. As in real life, if there is to be help for the one with PTSD, the people closest to them must also get beyond their own shortcomings and become stronger. The way this story is set up and led toward the final outcome is so real life, it shows both authors truly understand what PTSD actually is, how it affects everyone, and what to expect of treatment.
For those who have an interest in PTSD, any interest at all, or for those who want to learn more about what troubles a Veteran they know, this book is a must read. With a family member with PTSD, for me it was a walk through memories. The hard reality of this story relates to real life. Everyone should read at least one story like this to understand the ravages of this disease and how we can help those afflicted. I highly encourage the reading this true-to-life portrayal.
April 4, 2015
Simone Beaudelaire is a new author to me and I am very impressed and grateful for the gift of this book and introduction. I found the story compelling and the characters, problems and reactions real. Sam believes Amy is his life line back from the nightmares of his war experience. Amy is willing to do anything be anything to have her long loved Sam.
Does her love help or hinder Sam? Amy? What about the rest of the family unit? We see real reactions, they may not act as we think they should, but they are real. The pain and situations are more than most authors are willing to subject readers to, however I am so impressed and feel a little more understanding of what our heroes go through.
The love story is touching and always under every situation and action the love is there. So many emotions, love is the strongest; fear, guilt for his actions on returning and survivor guilt for his lost brothers--helplessness to help someone loved--how to respond to the stranger who has replaced the son, friend and love returning to them.
This is the first in a three book series and completely stands alone. I will be sure to read the next two and cannot wait.
I received this for an honest review.
Does her love help or hinder Sam? Amy? What about the rest of the family unit? We see real reactions, they may not act as we think they should, but they are real. The pain and situations are more than most authors are willing to subject readers to, however I am so impressed and feel a little more understanding of what our heroes go through.
The love story is touching and always under every situation and action the love is there. So many emotions, love is the strongest; fear, guilt for his actions on returning and survivor guilt for his lost brothers--helplessness to help someone loved--how to respond to the stranger who has replaced the son, friend and love returning to them.
This is the first in a three book series and completely stands alone. I will be sure to read the next two and cannot wait.
I received this for an honest review.
July 7, 2015
I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review by authors J.M. Northup and Simone Beaudelaire. This is book 1 of the Wounded Warriors series by the authors.
Sam Wallace grew up a rich kid but when he went into the service he became a different man. Now being back home he struggles with his demons that try to take over his being, can he fight them or will they destroy him for good. Amy grew up with Sam and fell in love with him. No matter what she always supported him but when he comes home can she help him adjust to his new life or will his troubles consume her too.
This is a darker story with a lot of emotional turmoil for the character of Sam. The story is very well written and you can feel the troubled emotions coming from him almost like it is real. Not all soldiers return to rosy lives and this story tells the other side of things.
This is for mature military book readers.
Sam Wallace grew up a rich kid but when he went into the service he became a different man. Now being back home he struggles with his demons that try to take over his being, can he fight them or will they destroy him for good. Amy grew up with Sam and fell in love with him. No matter what she always supported him but when he comes home can she help him adjust to his new life or will his troubles consume her too.
This is a darker story with a lot of emotional turmoil for the character of Sam. The story is very well written and you can feel the troubled emotions coming from him almost like it is real. Not all soldiers return to rosy lives and this story tells the other side of things.
This is for mature military book readers.
October 5, 2015
Great thought provoking story about how war affects our soldiers
First, I have to say Thank You to all veterans for their service. This story has given me a better understanding of how PTSD affects a soldier and the family. Reading this story at times I felt destroyed and could only imagine how hard it is to live and overcome this disorder. Some how Simone has managed to give us readers the happily ever after that we expect while being true to depicting how devastating PTSD can be.
First, I have to say Thank You to all veterans for their service. This story has given me a better understanding of how PTSD affects a soldier and the family. Reading this story at times I felt destroyed and could only imagine how hard it is to live and overcome this disorder. Some how Simone has managed to give us readers the happily ever after that we expect while being true to depicting how devastating PTSD can be.
July 27, 2015
Just a Small glimpse into PTSD
A person really doesn't know how bad it really is unless you have walked that road. Actually some ordinary people have PTSD who have been through traumatic life experience. It takes only one word or action to bring you back to that harrowing experience.
A person really doesn't know how bad it really is unless you have walked that road. Actually some ordinary people have PTSD who have been through traumatic life experience. It takes only one word or action to bring you back to that harrowing experience.
November 13, 2017
Saving Sam
by J.M. Northup
Julie Northup has looked into the major basic problem with war and coming home. Sam joined the military in a patriotic pride. His hometown celebrity and easy life style had given him many admirable traits. Sam has seen great tests of his strength in life and in war. He is not ready for the biggest test in his life, coming home. Amy’s life was not easy until her mum brought her to Sam’s father’s ranch. Where she found the home she always wanted. Amy has loved Sam all her life, she has given him more than anyone else free reign of her life. His return will be not only his greatest challenge, but Amy’s as well. They need to learn how to deal with their own past, and how they view themselves, and those they love the most. This book opens the eyes to those who doubt the problems in war especially the personal cost of war. Great job Julie, and I can understand where both of these characters are coming from. Thank you for sharing this story of love, triumph and understanding.
by J.M. Northup
Julie Northup has looked into the major basic problem with war and coming home. Sam joined the military in a patriotic pride. His hometown celebrity and easy life style had given him many admirable traits. Sam has seen great tests of his strength in life and in war. He is not ready for the biggest test in his life, coming home. Amy’s life was not easy until her mum brought her to Sam’s father’s ranch. Where she found the home she always wanted. Amy has loved Sam all her life, she has given him more than anyone else free reign of her life. His return will be not only his greatest challenge, but Amy’s as well. They need to learn how to deal with their own past, and how they view themselves, and those they love the most. This book opens the eyes to those who doubt the problems in war especially the personal cost of war. Great job Julie, and I can understand where both of these characters are coming from. Thank you for sharing this story of love, triumph and understanding.
March 23, 2017
Saving sam
El libro es super interesante. Se nota que investigaron el tema a conciencia. Aprendí mucho y disfruté enormemente la lectura.
El libro es super interesante. Se nota que investigaron el tema a conciencia. Aprendí mucho y disfruté enormemente la lectura.
March 15, 2017
PTSD and low self esteem, can they make it?
Sam was a wounded soul returning from the war in Afghanistan. He grew up arrogant, using people including Amy. He returned with unrecognized PTSD which became worse with time. Amy suffered from low self esteem, allowing Sam to use then ignore her. She tried to heal Sam by herself and failed, being injured in the process. This story had to have been written by someone who has been there. The depth of understanding of the painful process of dealing with PTSD, low esteem, and depression is depicted with caring and honesty. This is the first in the series, the rest should be worth following.
Sam was a wounded soul returning from the war in Afghanistan. He grew up arrogant, using people including Amy. He returned with unrecognized PTSD which became worse with time. Amy suffered from low self esteem, allowing Sam to use then ignore her. She tried to heal Sam by herself and failed, being injured in the process. This story had to have been written by someone who has been there. The depth of understanding of the painful process of dealing with PTSD, low esteem, and depression is depicted with caring and honesty. This is the first in the series, the rest should be worth following.
June 10, 2015
Saving Sam is a story in how PTSD affects our warriors
How often do we wonder if something different could have been done for our men and women who fought in any war and suffers from PTSD. This is not a new condition as soldier as have suffered from this as far back as the Civil war. We know know we can treat it but that it's a lifelong struggle. Sam returns from his deployment to Iraq with serious issues because his battle buddy died when they were hit by mortar fire. Amy lives at his family's ranch and has loved Sam forever. But neither know how to deal with his flashbacks. With love and counseling for both of them they try to find their way back to light and understanding.
How often do we wonder if something different could have been done for our men and women who fought in any war and suffers from PTSD. This is not a new condition as soldier as have suffered from this as far back as the Civil war. We know know we can treat it but that it's a lifelong struggle. Sam returns from his deployment to Iraq with serious issues because his battle buddy died when they were hit by mortar fire. Amy lives at his family's ranch and has loved Sam forever. But neither know how to deal with his flashbacks. With love and counseling for both of them they try to find their way back to light and understanding.
February 9, 2016
the theme of the story was military men and what terrors they live through when they return from war. But when it finalkly got to what happened to Sam shortly after the book wrapped and ended with a happy ending. They had much counseling to go through, a baby born and then they married. I say a whole lot of their story was glossed over and skipped.
I liked the story though don't get me wrong but it could have been a whole lot more...
I liked the story though don't get me wrong but it could have been a whole lot more...
July 22, 2019
I helped write this book with the talented, Simone Beaudelaire.
April 25, 2017
Saving Sam by J.M. Northup and Simone Beaudelaire is a fairly short book, a good choice for those with limited time for reading. I felt a lot of sympathy for Sam, Amy, not so much. This book is a fast-paced read. I enjoyed it. Saving Sam is book 1 in The Wounded Warriors Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews