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Forever Still #1
Still Life
Loss… a word Elizabeth Haddington knows only too well. Despite the tragedies she’s endured, she’s been able to rise from the adversity she’s faced and begin her life again. Being a self-assured and strong woman, she knows she doesn’t need anyone to make her whole.
Hate, pain, and twisted memories are all Sawyer Bryant’s ever known. He’d slowly lost who he was and what he should’ve become. His only escape was the military… Eight years later, as an ex-Navy SEAL, he’s forced to confront his father and their disturbed and violent past.
Then one day, his life is turned upside down, when he glimpses a woman singing in her car at a set of traffic lights. Thinking he’d never see her again, amazingly he finds her performing with her band at the local bar. This chance encounter brings these two lost souls together. Once Sawyer gets a taste of her melodic voice, there’s no turning back.
For Elizabeth, when she meets Sawyer… she realizes she’s fallen hard. But is this real-ly love she’s feeling or does love build slowly over time?
What happens when fate turns things around on you, creates flashes you can’t turn from… moments that will shape your life?
They are faced with the choice of darkness surrounding them or to rid themselves of the guilt and pain and move toward the light.
This story is about life’s moments. How they can make you or break you, and one man’s hope that… Love, won’t judge him.
***A warning to the reader, this book contains dark themes such as abuse and PTSD.
Hate, pain, and twisted memories are all Sawyer Bryant’s ever known. He’d slowly lost who he was and what he should’ve become. His only escape was the military… Eight years later, as an ex-Navy SEAL, he’s forced to confront his father and their disturbed and violent past.
Then one day, his life is turned upside down, when he glimpses a woman singing in her car at a set of traffic lights. Thinking he’d never see her again, amazingly he finds her performing with her band at the local bar. This chance encounter brings these two lost souls together. Once Sawyer gets a taste of her melodic voice, there’s no turning back.
For Elizabeth, when she meets Sawyer… she realizes she’s fallen hard. But is this real-ly love she’s feeling or does love build slowly over time?
What happens when fate turns things around on you, creates flashes you can’t turn from… moments that will shape your life?
They are faced with the choice of darkness surrounding them or to rid themselves of the guilt and pain and move toward the light.
This story is about life’s moments. How they can make you or break you, and one man’s hope that… Love, won’t judge him.
***A warning to the reader, this book contains dark themes such as abuse and PTSD.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2015
52 people are currently reading
837 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Johnson
41 books2,040 followersA.M. Johnson lives in Utah with her family where she works as a full-time nurse. If she’s not at the hockey rink with her kiddos, you’ll find her buried in a book or behind the keyboard. She loves romance and all things passionate. Amanda enjoys exploring all genres and bringing life to the human experience.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
August 4, 2015
3.5 Stars
Still Life is a story of Hope. Two persons who have lost so much in their short lives, facing the demons of their past, while struggling to survive their present, are brought together to heal each other.
To recover. To Love. TOGETHER.
Sawyer Bryant had a promising future. Go to university, study communications and business and keep the Sawyer legacy alive. While overlooking his father's infidelity, and take punches like a man, while his mother faded into the background. Living a cold and empty existence. As soon as Sawyer turned eighteen he left for the Navy. Several years later, and Sawyer is now an ex-Navy Seal and a college freshman.
One day while at a stop sign, Sawyer spots this girl singing in her car and something about how happy and carefree she was, simply brought a smile to his face. Before he could say hello, she drives off. A couple days later, his roommate takes him out to meet his friends, and when he sees the same girl, he realizes it's non other than his roommate's "girl."
Loss... That is all Elizabeth has known since she was 10 years old, when her parents took their lives. At twenty-two now and very alone. Lizzie is emotionally distressed over the events of her past. Feelings of self loathing and hatred towards her parents and their selfish actions, keeps her mind on a rollercoaster of memories and emotions. Believing that her parents didn't love her enough to live. After her parents suicides, revelations about her mother's past and her ancestors, became known, further compounding Elizabeth's feelings of coming from a long line of screw-ups. After their deaths she went to live with her best friend Todd and his family.
When Elizabeth and Sawyer meet, there's just something that draws them to each other. Even though they both battle their emotions, there is an indescribable emotion that captives the other. But Sawyer takes a step back, because of Todd's feelings for Elizabeth, even though it irks him, and even though Elizabeth doesn't seem to reciprocate the same feelings towards Todd. Their closeness while known, makes Sawyer jealous.
She was his, and I wanted her to be mine.
Throughout her life Lizzie has distanced herself from everyone. Her best friends -Todd, Cam and now even the gorgeous Sawyer, who she can't stop thinking about. The demons of her horrific past, stilts Lizzie from moving forward.
"I'm scared to death. I know I've only known you for a short time, but you bring feelings out that I've never experienced."
Both Elizabeth and Sawyer must battle the demons of their past, allowing the other to heal them, while fighting a monster from Sawyer;s past, that lurks in the background. Slowly watching, planning and stalking them.
Even with this threat lurking, Sawyer battles his PTSD and his feelings of worthlessness when it comes to Elizabeth. He cannot offer her anything more than what he is now. A broken shell of a man. But, for Elizabeth, even though her battles keeps her closed off, she must find a way to forgive, and to open her self up to love.
He made me feel hopeful, beautiful... perfect.
I thoroughly enjoyed the premise to both Elizabeth and Sawyer's past, and the way it factored into the novel, my only hiccup is that, I felt Elizabeth's character was too drawn out, and she was a bit overly dramatic, to the point where I started to get bored with her.
*ARC provided on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!
Still Life is a story of Hope. Two persons who have lost so much in their short lives, facing the demons of their past, while struggling to survive their present, are brought together to heal each other.
To recover. To Love. TOGETHER.
Sawyer Bryant had a promising future. Go to university, study communications and business and keep the Sawyer legacy alive. While overlooking his father's infidelity, and take punches like a man, while his mother faded into the background. Living a cold and empty existence. As soon as Sawyer turned eighteen he left for the Navy. Several years later, and Sawyer is now an ex-Navy Seal and a college freshman.
One day while at a stop sign, Sawyer spots this girl singing in her car and something about how happy and carefree she was, simply brought a smile to his face. Before he could say hello, she drives off. A couple days later, his roommate takes him out to meet his friends, and when he sees the same girl, he realizes it's non other than his roommate's "girl."
Loss... That is all Elizabeth has known since she was 10 years old, when her parents took their lives. At twenty-two now and very alone. Lizzie is emotionally distressed over the events of her past. Feelings of self loathing and hatred towards her parents and their selfish actions, keeps her mind on a rollercoaster of memories and emotions. Believing that her parents didn't love her enough to live. After her parents suicides, revelations about her mother's past and her ancestors, became known, further compounding Elizabeth's feelings of coming from a long line of screw-ups. After their deaths she went to live with her best friend Todd and his family.
When Elizabeth and Sawyer meet, there's just something that draws them to each other. Even though they both battle their emotions, there is an indescribable emotion that captives the other. But Sawyer takes a step back, because of Todd's feelings for Elizabeth, even though it irks him, and even though Elizabeth doesn't seem to reciprocate the same feelings towards Todd. Their closeness while known, makes Sawyer jealous.
She was his, and I wanted her to be mine.
Throughout her life Lizzie has distanced herself from everyone. Her best friends -Todd, Cam and now even the gorgeous Sawyer, who she can't stop thinking about. The demons of her horrific past, stilts Lizzie from moving forward.
"I'm scared to death. I know I've only known you for a short time, but you bring feelings out that I've never experienced."
Both Elizabeth and Sawyer must battle the demons of their past, allowing the other to heal them, while fighting a monster from Sawyer;s past, that lurks in the background. Slowly watching, planning and stalking them.
Even with this threat lurking, Sawyer battles his PTSD and his feelings of worthlessness when it comes to Elizabeth. He cannot offer her anything more than what he is now. A broken shell of a man. But, for Elizabeth, even though her battles keeps her closed off, she must find a way to forgive, and to open her self up to love.
He made me feel hopeful, beautiful... perfect.
I thoroughly enjoyed the premise to both Elizabeth and Sawyer's past, and the way it factored into the novel, my only hiccup is that, I felt Elizabeth's character was too drawn out, and she was a bit overly dramatic, to the point where I started to get bored with her.
*ARC provided on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!
January 31, 2016
My sister always pointed this out in the Harry Potter movies. if you look at the intros, you can tell how darker they go. Sorcerer's Stone is light and happy, then by Deathly Hallows it's dark and dreary and you know something major is going to happen... This is basically Still Life. It starts fairly light, then as the book progresses you learn about Sawyer and Elizabeth with their pasts and I can't help but make that little connection. That's the best way to describe the progression of this book. I'm completely blown away from this book. I knew it wasn't a light read, but this book definitely took me by surprise. By the last 100 pages, I LITERALLY could not put the book down. I was completely immersed in this story and had to know what was going to happen next. Sawyer and Elizabeth both have pasts that are not pretty at all. The strength that Elizabeth had was unbelievable. To have what happened to her and come out the person she is now is aspiring. I seriously loved this book, but I definitely need some time to digest my thoughts. I'll have more thoughts on my full review!
August 7, 2015
I’m actually quite struggling with what to say about this one. On the one hand, there were things I quite enjoyed but other things about it just kept nagging at me.
For all the feels that this book has, I am a bit underwhelmed. I feel like I was only engaged superficially. Perhaps this came across as more telling than showing for me. Frankly, it would’ve induced a lot of eye rolls from me had I not have to constantly remind myself to to treat the MCs on their own merits and not compare them to other loved NA H&h’s. And call me crazy, for a change, I probably would’ve been more ok if I didn’t get the H’s POV. He came across as effeminate sometimes, and because of that, I didn’t always buy his alpha ways. I actually don’t know if I fully buy the H&h together. It wasn’t insta-love yet it still felt like that to a degree. Also, as helpful the flashbacks were to help me better understand the MC’s, it threw the pace off for me. I knew I was in trouble when I noticed that I was only at 50-ish% The 50-80% mark felt like it took effort. Fortunately, the last 20% picked up.
For what it’s worth, there are things that I did like. For all my gripe about this, I actually did appreciate the horror and sadness of the MC’s back story, if that makes sense. I liked Elizabeth enough (Lizzie to her “family” but yes, Elizabeth to her friends O.o). She is grounded enough despite her past. I liked her friends, Cam and Colby (what about Todd? Hmmm, I’m kinda’ on the fence about him). And I did appreciate how Sawyer felt about Elizabeth.
In the end, I hate to say it but this was just a so-so read for me. With all the high ratings on this one, I’m clearly in the minority… Win some, lose some…
*ARC received from author*
For all the feels that this book has, I am a bit underwhelmed. I feel like I was only engaged superficially. Perhaps this came across as more telling than showing for me. Frankly, it would’ve induced a lot of eye rolls from me had I not have to constantly remind myself to to treat the MCs on their own merits and not compare them to other loved NA H&h’s. And call me crazy, for a change, I probably would’ve been more ok if I didn’t get the H’s POV. He came across as effeminate sometimes, and because of that, I didn’t always buy his alpha ways. I actually don’t know if I fully buy the H&h together. It wasn’t insta-love yet it still felt like that to a degree. Also, as helpful the flashbacks were to help me better understand the MC’s, it threw the pace off for me. I knew I was in trouble when I noticed that I was only at 50-ish% The 50-80% mark felt like it took effort. Fortunately, the last 20% picked up.
For what it’s worth, there are things that I did like. For all my gripe about this, I actually did appreciate the horror and sadness of the MC’s back story, if that makes sense. I liked Elizabeth enough (Lizzie to her “family” but yes, Elizabeth to her friends O.o). She is grounded enough despite her past. I liked her friends, Cam and Colby (what about Todd? Hmmm, I’m kinda’ on the fence about him). And I did appreciate how Sawyer felt about Elizabeth.
In the end, I hate to say it but this was just a so-so read for me. With all the high ratings on this one, I’m clearly in the minority… Win some, lose some…
*ARC received from author*
March 16, 2016
A beautifully written debut novel by A.M. Johnson.
The story of Sawyer and Elizabeth is not your ordinary fairy tale. This intricately woven tale takes you on a journey of two souls that didn't believe love was possible. There are obstacles in their path and they're not easy.
Sawyer has been to war, both in a literal sense as well as figuratively. A victim as a child, a survivor of abuse, he has seen horrific things. The difficult life of living with an abusive father. There were things that he was called, and told that are so ingrained in his mind, that nothing can stop the nightmares he suffers from. When he reaches a point in his teens where he's had enough, he packs a bag and walks out. Leaving his mother with the abusive monster that is his father.
Elizabeth has lived through a horrific event that no child should witness. Ever. She's grown up without her parents. She's taken in by her best friend Todd's parents, at a young age. Even though she's had a good upbringing and never needed for anything, there is still the horrors that she witnessed that plague her every day.
Both these completely shattered souls find each other one night and from there something blossoms. Something that they've both laid to rest. But somehow the attraction between them is more than they can ignore. There is something pulling them into each other's space and as hard as they may try to fight it, there is not letting go.
Like I said, this isn't your easy HEA, there are so many other speed bumps that knock them off the course. I felt every emotion, all the angst, and frustration, but also all the love just seeping off the page and into my heart.
I absolutely loved Sawyer and Elizabeth's story. If you like a beautifully written love story, then this one is for you.
The story of Sawyer and Elizabeth is not your ordinary fairy tale. This intricately woven tale takes you on a journey of two souls that didn't believe love was possible. There are obstacles in their path and they're not easy.
Sawyer has been to war, both in a literal sense as well as figuratively. A victim as a child, a survivor of abuse, he has seen horrific things. The difficult life of living with an abusive father. There were things that he was called, and told that are so ingrained in his mind, that nothing can stop the nightmares he suffers from. When he reaches a point in his teens where he's had enough, he packs a bag and walks out. Leaving his mother with the abusive monster that is his father.
Elizabeth has lived through a horrific event that no child should witness. Ever. She's grown up without her parents. She's taken in by her best friend Todd's parents, at a young age. Even though she's had a good upbringing and never needed for anything, there is still the horrors that she witnessed that plague her every day.
Both these completely shattered souls find each other one night and from there something blossoms. Something that they've both laid to rest. But somehow the attraction between them is more than they can ignore. There is something pulling them into each other's space and as hard as they may try to fight it, there is not letting go.
Like I said, this isn't your easy HEA, there are so many other speed bumps that knock them off the course. I felt every emotion, all the angst, and frustration, but also all the love just seeping off the page and into my heart.
I absolutely loved Sawyer and Elizabeth's story. If you like a beautifully written love story, then this one is for you.
March 21, 2016
I love how two broken people can mend each other, help each other through their darker times and love on another so hard. Sawyer and Elizabeth are made for one another excepting each other's past over coming their darkness . They came to each others lives at the perfect time.. And omg Todd is/was a little manwhore..
May 4, 2015
+++ 4 TORMENTED STARS!!! +++
Still Life was a beautiful story of hope, recovery, love, and overcoming loss.
Sawyer is an ex Navy SEAL that battles the demons of his past and the demons of war. The moment he sees Elizabeth it's as if there finally is a light at the end of the tunnel but she's forbidden. For his roommate Todd, has feelings for her too.
"Elizabeth was my redemption. I felt I could conquer anything with her by my side."
Elizabeth is the lead singer of her band Unbridled. Thirteen years ago she witnessed her parents death. She constantly struggles with those dark memories and she's learning to overcome the demons through helping others.
"I pulled back and looked into his emerald eyes. They were infinite, beautiful, and they were breaking my soul wide open. I gave him feather light kisses on each eyelid. My fingers caressed the tender skin. He shivered. When his eyes opened again I swore I could see into his soul."
These two souls are tormented by the demons of their past and together they become what they need to in order to heal and mend what's broken. It's not an easy road but it's a beautiful journey of recovering life.
"You're so fucking unbelievable. Unbelievably sexy, smart, caring and that voice, well damn cricket, I think it's invaded my soul."
I truly enjoyed this book. Sawyer was the perfect Alpha and I couldn't ask for more. There wasn't a moment I didn't want to hug both Elizabeth and Sawyer and reassure them that everything will be okay. Be being A.M. Johnson's debut novel, she did a phenomenal job! I'm super excited for book 2.
***ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.***
Still Life was a beautiful story of hope, recovery, love, and overcoming loss.
Sawyer is an ex Navy SEAL that battles the demons of his past and the demons of war. The moment he sees Elizabeth it's as if there finally is a light at the end of the tunnel but she's forbidden. For his roommate Todd, has feelings for her too.
"Elizabeth was my redemption. I felt I could conquer anything with her by my side."
Elizabeth is the lead singer of her band Unbridled. Thirteen years ago she witnessed her parents death. She constantly struggles with those dark memories and she's learning to overcome the demons through helping others.
"I pulled back and looked into his emerald eyes. They were infinite, beautiful, and they were breaking my soul wide open. I gave him feather light kisses on each eyelid. My fingers caressed the tender skin. He shivered. When his eyes opened again I swore I could see into his soul."
These two souls are tormented by the demons of their past and together they become what they need to in order to heal and mend what's broken. It's not an easy road but it's a beautiful journey of recovering life.
"You're so fucking unbelievable. Unbelievably sexy, smart, caring and that voice, well damn cricket, I think it's invaded my soul."
I truly enjoyed this book. Sawyer was the perfect Alpha and I couldn't ask for more. There wasn't a moment I didn't want to hug both Elizabeth and Sawyer and reassure them that everything will be okay. Be being A.M. Johnson's debut novel, she did a phenomenal job! I'm super excited for book 2.
***ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.***
December 28, 2015
This book was wildly amazing! I was up till one a.m. reading this beauty because I didn't want to put it down. Sawyer's and Elizabeth's story was breathtakingly beautiful. It was heart- breaking but beautiful. Seeing where they both started and where they end up was truly amazing.
Sawyer was a struggling character through the book. Having been raised in the worst of situations and been a Navy Seal for 8 years, he's seen the worst. He now thinks he's damaged good and will live his life alone. Until he sees a beautiful woman singing in her car at a stop light so full of life. He instantly feels something for her but knows he won't ever see her again. It turns out fate had different plans for them.
Elizabeth's life is full of loss. She's experienced them first hand and she's just now getting on her feet. She's enjoying her life going to school and signing. She thinks she has it all until she meets her best friends friend Sawyer.
These two characters were made for each other. Seeing where they started and how much they grew over the story was beautiful. I loved seeing them grow and find themselves in each other.
I can't wait to read the rest in this series and see where all these characters will go. (:
Sawyer was a struggling character through the book. Having been raised in the worst of situations and been a Navy Seal for 8 years, he's seen the worst. He now thinks he's damaged good and will live his life alone. Until he sees a beautiful woman singing in her car at a stop light so full of life. He instantly feels something for her but knows he won't ever see her again. It turns out fate had different plans for them.
Elizabeth's life is full of loss. She's experienced them first hand and she's just now getting on her feet. She's enjoying her life going to school and signing. She thinks she has it all until she meets her best friends friend Sawyer.
These two characters were made for each other. Seeing where they started and how much they grew over the story was beautiful. I loved seeing them grow and find themselves in each other.
I can't wait to read the rest in this series and see where all these characters will go. (:
April 25, 2015
AM Johnson you are fucking genius this book is so good I can't even explain how it made me feel it was amazing ! It even made me laugh, cry kept me in suspense I loved the ending great job Hun . Anyone I mean anyone who likes to read romantic erotic books and 5 stars should definitely 100% read this book i guarantee you will fucking love it ! Definitely 5 stars in my eyes . I can't wait for still water !
January 8, 2016
I am usually a sucker for a solider story but Sawyer was so sweet. No bad boy. No ultra male. He was just a broken boy trying to be the man he needed to be for Elizabeth.
I loved that these two struggling humans didn't do it alone - both sought and continued to seek help in therapists. It was refreshing that they weren't just plugging along ... Their sessions were part of the story.
I love a survival love story and this is definitely one.
I loved that these two struggling humans didn't do it alone - both sought and continued to seek help in therapists. It was refreshing that they weren't just plugging along ... Their sessions were part of the story.
I love a survival love story and this is definitely one.
July 24, 2015
My favorite character in this book was Sawyer . . . aside from the fact that his body is dreamy, I really enjoyed the personal growth he had throughout the story. Even with all the anger and rage, he allows love into his heart . . . he allows himself to not only heal, but to grow as an individual.
There were some parts of his POV that felt like it was more of a woman's thoughts than a man's. Men don't look at women, skinny or not, and think to themselves that they want to give the woman a cheeseburger. In reality, even if a man is in love with a woman, he's a man and he's visual. He would comment on her boobs, ass or other parts.
Elizabeth, to some, comes across as "too perfect." Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and through Sawyer's eyes, she was flawless - that's what love does to you. I appreciate that she wasn't a whiny, helpless chick who complained. Thank you, Amanda for that!
Side commentary - has no reflection on my enjoyment of the story: The only other challenge I have, in most romances, are when the main characters say they're in love and tell the other person within a short time of knowing each other, especially when you don't know the person's last name or much about them.
For anyone who has experienced trauma in their life, in any form, I would recommend the book: Tapping the Healer Within: Using Thought-Field Therapy to Instantly Conquer Your Fears, Anxieties, and Emotional Distress. The book speaks for itself and is a wonderful tool for anyone with any level of trauma, anxiety, phobias and the like.
There were some parts of his POV that felt like it was more of a woman's thoughts than a man's. Men don't look at women, skinny or not, and think to themselves that they want to give the woman a cheeseburger. In reality, even if a man is in love with a woman, he's a man and he's visual. He would comment on her boobs, ass or other parts.
Elizabeth, to some, comes across as "too perfect." Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and through Sawyer's eyes, she was flawless - that's what love does to you. I appreciate that she wasn't a whiny, helpless chick who complained. Thank you, Amanda for that!
Side commentary - has no reflection on my enjoyment of the story: The only other challenge I have, in most romances, are when the main characters say they're in love and tell the other person within a short time of knowing each other, especially when you don't know the person's last name or much about them.
For anyone who has experienced trauma in their life, in any form, I would recommend the book: Tapping the Healer Within: Using Thought-Field Therapy to Instantly Conquer Your Fears, Anxieties, and Emotional Distress. The book speaks for itself and is a wonderful tool for anyone with any level of trauma, anxiety, phobias and the like.
December 14, 2015
This book is sooo sweet with a lot of heart breaking moments,it's a little bit slow at first, but it's definitely worth it...it's about two fucked up people met, they've been through a lot, but they're completed each other, they've found home in each other's presence.
Such an awesome couple, they're so perfect for each other, they're healing each other's heart.
Sawyer is a sweet guy (i have a thing with man in uniform,especially NAVY).
He's so kind. his childhood made me cringe, but he's survive and becone amazing man.
"I need to know i can emotionally have you before I physically take you" -- yup this is why i love him.
Lizzie ooh what a strong woman, she's a survivor, she's a kind woman who wants to help others despite she's got her own problems.
If you're looking something sweet this is for you.
Such an awesome couple, they're so perfect for each other, they're healing each other's heart.
Sawyer is a sweet guy (i have a thing with man in uniform,especially NAVY).
He's so kind. his childhood made me cringe, but he's survive and becone amazing man.
"I need to know i can emotionally have you before I physically take you" -- yup this is why i love him.
Lizzie ooh what a strong woman, she's a survivor, she's a kind woman who wants to help others despite she's got her own problems.
If you're looking something sweet this is for you.
July 22, 2015
5 Worthy Stars For A Debut Author
What a read this was! Still Life had me from the start all the way through to till the end.
It was beautifully written and I loved that the fact it was from both characters perspectives.
It had all the feels, which I loved.
For a debut author, AM Johnson has done an amazing job. It's just too hard to express what this book did to me without giving it away. You just have to read it fr yourself!!
Can't wait for the next book.
Was given an arc in exchange for an honest review.
What a read this was! Still Life had me from the start all the way through to till the end.
It was beautifully written and I loved that the fact it was from both characters perspectives.
It had all the feels, which I loved.
For a debut author, AM Johnson has done an amazing job. It's just too hard to express what this book did to me without giving it away. You just have to read it fr yourself!!
Can't wait for the next book.
Was given an arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2015
Rating 3.5/5 this story was a little slow but good! Sawyer was so damn sweet he melted my heart❤️ I just wished he was more aggressive! You know me I love my alpha males
April 5, 2015
AM Johnson reached out to me to review her first novel and I was more than happy to. I love getting the word of new or unknown authors out there. They deserve every opportunity to be noticed.
This story is about overcoming loss, dealing with demons and finding your true match in life. Sawyer and Elizabeth meet and it's insta-love. Elizabeth is somewhat forbidden because of her relationship with Sawyer's roommate but they can't keep themselves away from eachother.
"I don't do regret, Sawyer. Life is too damn short. I sure as hell don't want to be anyone's regret."
Thirteen years after the death of her parents, Elizabeth is still dealing with the horror of what she witnessed that day and ways to overcome and help others in similar situations. Sawyer has his own issues he's dealing with as well, being a retired Navy SEAL and recovering from a horrible childhood and adolescence. Elizabeth and Sawyer's strong connection will heal their wounds, but not without some major bumps in the road.
"I'm scared to death. I know I've only known you for a short time, but you bring feelings out that I've never experienced."
I really did enjoy this book. After reading a few others with the hero being a Navy SEAL, I was kind of turned off but A.M. Johnson made Sawyer's story unique and truly loveable. You just want to hug him, and stare at him. Elizabeth is the type of girl that I could be best friends with, pretty, smart, sarcastic and most of all, strong. I really loved the ending of the book but would have liked maybe a few more chapters of their life together since it all kind of came to fruition very fast at the end. A.M. Johnson will also be releasing book 2 in this series, Still Water which surrounds Todd (Elizabeth's best friend) and his quest for happiness.
This story is about overcoming loss, dealing with demons and finding your true match in life. Sawyer and Elizabeth meet and it's insta-love. Elizabeth is somewhat forbidden because of her relationship with Sawyer's roommate but they can't keep themselves away from eachother.
"I don't do regret, Sawyer. Life is too damn short. I sure as hell don't want to be anyone's regret."
Thirteen years after the death of her parents, Elizabeth is still dealing with the horror of what she witnessed that day and ways to overcome and help others in similar situations. Sawyer has his own issues he's dealing with as well, being a retired Navy SEAL and recovering from a horrible childhood and adolescence. Elizabeth and Sawyer's strong connection will heal their wounds, but not without some major bumps in the road.
"I'm scared to death. I know I've only known you for a short time, but you bring feelings out that I've never experienced."
I really did enjoy this book. After reading a few others with the hero being a Navy SEAL, I was kind of turned off but A.M. Johnson made Sawyer's story unique and truly loveable. You just want to hug him, and stare at him. Elizabeth is the type of girl that I could be best friends with, pretty, smart, sarcastic and most of all, strong. I really loved the ending of the book but would have liked maybe a few more chapters of their life together since it all kind of came to fruition very fast at the end. A.M. Johnson will also be releasing book 2 in this series, Still Water which surrounds Todd (Elizabeth's best friend) and his quest for happiness.
March 9, 2016
What amazes me is that this is A.M. Johnson’s first novel. It was PERFECT! I love the way A.M. Johnson brought the characters together, the story was equal in the love, the plot, the twist and the intimacy. The story was refreshing.
"I pulled back and looked into his emerald eyes. They were infinite, beautiful, and they were breaking my soul wide open. I gave him feather light kisses on each eyelid. My fingers caressed the tender skin. He shivered. When his eyes opened again I swore I could see into his soul."
Sawyer was a struggling character through the book. Having been raised in the worst of situations and been a Navy Seal for 8 years, he's seen the worst. He now thinks he's damaged good and will live his life alone. The moment he sees Elizabeth it's as if there finally is a light at the end of the tunnel.
"Elizabeth was my redemption. I felt I could conquer anything with her by my side."
Elizabeth's life is full of loss. Thirteen years ago she witnessed her parents death. she is now getting on her feet. She's enjoying her life going to school. She's the lead singer of her band.
"You're so fucking unbelievable. Unbelievably sexy, smart, caring and that voice, well damn cricket, I think it's invaded my soul."
Sawyer and Elizabeth after they both have had tragedies and demons to over come. This story says so much about how having unconditional love can truly help a person fight their demons. It's not an easy road but it's a beautiful journey of recovering life.
"You'll always keep me safe, still, and bound to this safe place, you...you're my anchor."
"I pulled back and looked into his emerald eyes. They were infinite, beautiful, and they were breaking my soul wide open. I gave him feather light kisses on each eyelid. My fingers caressed the tender skin. He shivered. When his eyes opened again I swore I could see into his soul."
Sawyer was a struggling character through the book. Having been raised in the worst of situations and been a Navy Seal for 8 years, he's seen the worst. He now thinks he's damaged good and will live his life alone. The moment he sees Elizabeth it's as if there finally is a light at the end of the tunnel.
"Elizabeth was my redemption. I felt I could conquer anything with her by my side."
Elizabeth's life is full of loss. Thirteen years ago she witnessed her parents death. she is now getting on her feet. She's enjoying her life going to school. She's the lead singer of her band.
"You're so fucking unbelievable. Unbelievably sexy, smart, caring and that voice, well damn cricket, I think it's invaded my soul."
Sawyer and Elizabeth after they both have had tragedies and demons to over come. This story says so much about how having unconditional love can truly help a person fight their demons. It's not an easy road but it's a beautiful journey of recovering life.
"You'll always keep me safe, still, and bound to this safe place, you...you're my anchor."
April 13, 2015
When I opened this book I wasn’t sure what to expect. I love to read but I have been so busy lately that finding time to read is a struggle. When I do I usually pick a book I’ve been waiting for. Taking the time to pick up a book from a new author was something I wanted to do but I was hoping I was going to find something great.
What I found between the pages was magic! I was so drawn into this book that I read it within about 12 hours.
It had me, completely, from the beginning, not just about what was going to happen next in the story, but also because the feelings, the hurt and cuts were palpable, jumping right off the page and slicing my heart. I was hoping beyond hope that these characters were going to fix each other, while fixing themselves. Then as an added bonus the side characters were so well written that you could love them one minute, hate them the next and then find your heart breaking for them.
I'm not going to go into the story, you have to experience it yourself. What I will say is that it kept me engaged throughout. It moved at the right speed and I couldn't put it down. It has also made me desperate for the next one in the series!
5 beautifully broken stars.
What I found between the pages was magic! I was so drawn into this book that I read it within about 12 hours.
It had me, completely, from the beginning, not just about what was going to happen next in the story, but also because the feelings, the hurt and cuts were palpable, jumping right off the page and slicing my heart. I was hoping beyond hope that these characters were going to fix each other, while fixing themselves. Then as an added bonus the side characters were so well written that you could love them one minute, hate them the next and then find your heart breaking for them.
I'm not going to go into the story, you have to experience it yourself. What I will say is that it kept me engaged throughout. It moved at the right speed and I couldn't put it down. It has also made me desperate for the next one in the series!
5 beautifully broken stars.
November 8, 2015
Still Life. Oh. My. Gosh. I am at a loss for words. This amazing book opened up my soul and just made me feel every ounce of love, pride and pain that was endured. The storyline is so beautiful. Sawyer and Elizabeth were perfect. Here you have Sawyer, the leading Alpha who can't help how he feels and goes after what he wants. His journey was so painful and cruel. It hurt me having to read his life story. But I was so proud when he slowly opened up and learnt that it's okay to let go of everything bad that has happened and enjoy all the good life has to offer. All thanks to Elizabeth. Her past shattered me. Losing her parents and just living life wondering why you weren't good enough for them to stay and be there for you. She was no stranger to pain and suffering which is why Sawyer was made for her. They both had each other to open up to, to fight theirs demons and insecurities and also to have that one special person who will never give up on you. Still Life is about facing your fears, always having your loved ones beside you and to learn to let go and live the life you were destined to. Beautiful story, Ms Amanda. I can't to see what else you have planned.
March 20, 2015
This is the story of Elizabeth and Sawyer. It is a story about love and loss. A story about the past, the present and the future and whether two people who have had more than their fair share of pain an heartache can fix and heal each other.
This was an engaging read that moved at the right pace with believable characters. I am really, really looking forward to reading the next one in the series !
This was an engaging read that moved at the right pace with believable characters. I am really, really looking forward to reading the next one in the series !
April 15, 2015
Soooo I was waiting for this book for a wee while after hearing about it on instagram.
And hell if it wasn't worth the wait.
I very often find female leads quite irritating but I liked Elizabeth and I freaking loved Sawyer.
Beautifully written and I loved that it was from both perspectives.
Annnnnnd I fully thought Todd was gonna be involved with Gavin cos he was so jealous!
Gahhhh I cant wait for the next book in the series! I really hope its out soon
And hell if it wasn't worth the wait.
I very often find female leads quite irritating but I liked Elizabeth and I freaking loved Sawyer.
Beautifully written and I loved that it was from both perspectives.
Annnnnnd I fully thought Todd was gonna be involved with Gavin cos he was so jealous!
Gahhhh I cant wait for the next book in the series! I really hope its out soon
August 22, 2015
This book was recommend to me by a friend. After seeing the teasers everywhere on Instagram, I finally decided to give Still Life a chance. I bought the book and was not disappointed. A few months later the author was published! My favorite character is Swayer. I cannot wait to read Still Water. I'm not a big fan of Todd, but judging from the reviews I bet I'm going to love him. I STILL WANT SETH. I'm patiently waiting for Seth.
October 24, 2015
I loved the book and it was written beautifully I love how Liz and Sawyer its Ride or Die together it took him more time to believe her to the fullest because his past was bad but he got there. The relationship with Todd, Liz, and Cam is amazing even though Todd is so in love with Liz they were still family no matter what. She is a strong tiny little woman and I fell in love with her myself. LoL
But you should read it its that good.
But you should read it its that good.
July 26, 2015
4.5-5
This was such an amazing book!!!! I loved the struggles between Liz and Sawyer and how it all worked out in the end.
For me i love books where their is an emotional struggle they have to work through, and this book was exactly that.
Amazing book. Love the Author, Can't wait for more.
This was such an amazing book!!!! I loved the struggles between Liz and Sawyer and how it all worked out in the end.
For me i love books where their is an emotional struggle they have to work through, and this book was exactly that.
Amazing book. Love the Author, Can't wait for more.
April 4, 2015
I feel so incredibly honored to read this book. We meet Sawyer and Elizabeth after they both have had tragedies and loneliness to over come. This story says so much about how having unconditional love can truly help a person fight their demons.
I am looking forward to more in this series!
I am looking forward to more in this series!
April 18, 2015
5 Stars for debut!!!
I really enjoyed this book.
We have Elizabeth & Sawyer, who are two broken people & have experienced such tragedy. Can they get their happy ending? Do not hesitate to buy. Can't wait for next.
I really enjoyed this book.
We have Elizabeth & Sawyer, who are two broken people & have experienced such tragedy. Can they get their happy ending? Do not hesitate to buy. Can't wait for next.
Read
April 20, 2015AM JOHNSON
First I want to say I love am Johnson I think she's an amazing writer and this was a debut novel whatttttt? Sawyer and Lizzie were perfect, both troubled but perfect I can not wait for Todd's story!!!!
First I want to say I love am Johnson I think she's an amazing writer and this was a debut novel whatttttt? Sawyer and Lizzie were perfect, both troubled but perfect I can not wait for Todd's story!!!!
June 28, 2015
I have read this book twice already. I'll prob reread it over and over. It's a story you don't want to forget. Sawyer and Lizzie are soulmates. They just have to get through a little thing called the past, especially when it interferes with their future. It's such a beautiful story!
Read
October 31, 20155 exceptional stars!!!
Still Life is the story of two lost souls that find the light in each other. The book covers some very serious topics and it can get heavily emotional but it's SO WORTH IT!! The author is brilliant with her words and I can't wait to read more of her books!
Still Life is the story of two lost souls that find the light in each other. The book covers some very serious topics and it can get heavily emotional but it's SO WORTH IT!! The author is brilliant with her words and I can't wait to read more of her books!
June 12, 2015
*full review to follow*
December 26, 2015
This book blew my expectations out of the water! Was amazing all around, great for a debut novel! Touched every emotion and dealt with real issues with PTSD. Well done!
Want to read
February 11, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (2/11/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
Loss… a word Elizabeth Haddington knows only too well. Despite the tragedies she’s endured, she’s been able to rise from the adversity she’s faced and begin her life again. Being a self-assured and strong woman, she knows she doesn’t need anyone to make her whole.
Hate, pain, and twisted memories are all Sawyer Bryant’s ever known. He’d slowly lost who he was and what he should’ve become. His only escape was the military… Eight years later, as an ex-Navy SEAL, he’s forced to confront his father and their disturbed and violent past.
Then one day, his life is turned upside down, when he glimpses a woman singing in her car at a set of traffic lights. Thinking he’d never see her again, amazingly he finds her performing with her band at the local bar. This chance encounter brings these two lost souls together. Once Sawyer gets a taste of her melodic voice, there’s no turning back.
For Elizabeth, when she meets Sawyer… she realizes she’s fallen hard. But is this really love she’s feeling or does love build slowly over time?
What happens when fate turns things around on you, creates flashes you can’t turn from… moments that will shape your life?
They are faced with the choice of darkness surrounding them or to rid themselves of the guilt and pain and move toward the light.
Blurb:
Loss… a word Elizabeth Haddington knows only too well. Despite the tragedies she’s endured, she’s been able to rise from the adversity she’s faced and begin her life again. Being a self-assured and strong woman, she knows she doesn’t need anyone to make her whole.
Hate, pain, and twisted memories are all Sawyer Bryant’s ever known. He’d slowly lost who he was and what he should’ve become. His only escape was the military… Eight years later, as an ex-Navy SEAL, he’s forced to confront his father and their disturbed and violent past.
Then one day, his life is turned upside down, when he glimpses a woman singing in her car at a set of traffic lights. Thinking he’d never see her again, amazingly he finds her performing with her band at the local bar. This chance encounter brings these two lost souls together. Once Sawyer gets a taste of her melodic voice, there’s no turning back.
For Elizabeth, when she meets Sawyer… she realizes she’s fallen hard. But is this really love she’s feeling or does love build slowly over time?
What happens when fate turns things around on you, creates flashes you can’t turn from… moments that will shape your life?
They are faced with the choice of darkness surrounding them or to rid themselves of the guilt and pain and move toward the light.
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