What do you think?
Rate this book
Avenues Ink #1
Possession
Paige Simon was the only girl Declan ever loved. The only one capable of silencing his voices, the only person to ever have faith in who he was, until the day her faith turned to doubt and destroyed everything they’d made together.
Declan O ’Connell was the only person Paige could be herself with. The only one she could rely on, until the day she was forced to make a choice that would condemn them both.
They’ve had years apart, and second chances don’t belong to the damned. But when you come face to face with your savior, it’s almost impossible to walk away. In order to move beyond the sins of their past, and forever silence the demons in his head, they’ll have to risk it all.
But with love, there are real reasons to be afraid and, sometimes… your salvation is your damnation.
Stand Alone
Not a Cliff Hanger
Declan O ’Connell was the only person Paige could be herself with. The only one she could rely on, until the day she was forced to make a choice that would condemn them both.
They’ve had years apart, and second chances don’t belong to the damned. But when you come face to face with your savior, it’s almost impossible to walk away. In order to move beyond the sins of their past, and forever silence the demons in his head, they’ll have to risk it all.
But with love, there are real reasons to be afraid and, sometimes… your salvation is your damnation.
Stand Alone
Not a Cliff Hanger
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 14, 2017
399 people are currently reading
1340 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Johnson
41 books2,041 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
dnf
March 13, 2017DNF @ 30%
I know I am VERY much in the minority on this one, but this just isn't doing it for me.
The tension and angst feels forced, I'm not connecting with the characters, and the constant italicized flashbacks are a pet peeve of mine.
That said, it's probably just me. Everyone else seems to be 5-starring the shit out of this thing.
Maybe I'll try picking it up again later.
I know I am VERY much in the minority on this one, but this just isn't doing it for me.
The tension and angst feels forced, I'm not connecting with the characters, and the constant italicized flashbacks are a pet peeve of mine.
That said, it's probably just me. Everyone else seems to be 5-starring the shit out of this thing.
Maybe I'll try picking it up again later.
December 25, 2018
This was the first time I've read a book by A.M. Johnson, but it won't be the last. Her writing was beautiful, the plot was original and well-developed, and this story was packed with dynamic characters.
Declan and Paige were high school sweethearts. One day, one choice changed the direction of their lives and tore them apart. After nine years apart, they realized that their love never died, but they had to work on forgiving each other... and themselves.
Declan was the obvious star of this story. As sympathetic a character as Paige was, all of my attention went to Declan. He showed me so much strength. He was battling both depression and psychosis and was still able to find and appreciate beauty and life. Despite his lows. Despite his struggles. I smiled each time he did. It felt like a small victory. Every time his voices spoke up, my heart suffered a twinge. I was impressed that through it all he had such unwavering support from his family. His brothers, Liam and Keiran, were amazing and I'd be interested in reading their stories.
Declan and Paige conquered many obstacles and beat back their demons and I was immensely satisfied with the happily ever after they finally achieved.
Release Date: February 16, 2017
Genre: Second Chance Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Book type: Book One of the Avenues Ink series
Declan and Paige were high school sweethearts. One day, one choice changed the direction of their lives and tore them apart. After nine years apart, they realized that their love never died, but they had to work on forgiving each other... and themselves.
Declan was the obvious star of this story. As sympathetic a character as Paige was, all of my attention went to Declan. He showed me so much strength. He was battling both depression and psychosis and was still able to find and appreciate beauty and life. Despite his lows. Despite his struggles. I smiled each time he did. It felt like a small victory. Every time his voices spoke up, my heart suffered a twinge. I was impressed that through it all he had such unwavering support from his family. His brothers, Liam and Keiran, were amazing and I'd be interested in reading their stories.
Declan and Paige conquered many obstacles and beat back their demons and I was immensely satisfied with the happily ever after they finally achieved.
Release Date: February 16, 2017
Genre: Second Chance Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Book type: Book One of the Avenues Ink series
June 6, 2019
Audio -
-Male narrator - 5 stars!!
-Female narrator - 1 barely tolerable star!
Story - 4 stars
-Male narrator - 5 stars!!
-Female narrator - 1 barely tolerable star!
Story - 4 stars
March 4, 2017
I honestly have no clue how to put down in words just how much I adored this book. Almost two days later and I can't stop thinking about it.
But, take a fantastic story, add in amazing characters that I loved so damn hard, writing that made me hurt when Declan and Paige hurt, cry when they cried, grieve when they grieved, laugh when they laughed,felt love and joy when they did ..... yep, the writing is that bloody good I was wrecked from all the emotion that I felt.
Their journey to their happy wasn't an easy one, they had to claw and fight just to breathe through their pain at times. And this is where the author really shone, she is a medical professional and knows her stuff and it showed. It HURT to read what Declan had to live with, and where that man would've been without his brothers Liam and Kieran is anyone's guess! The author really nailed his mental health issues without boggling my brain.
There is a trigger that may be an issue for some, however I felt the author dealt with it so sensitively and wasn't brushed away. Dec and Paige were tortured for years for something that happened when they were just school kids.
Possession is by far my best read of 2017, and then some! It was utter perfection.
6+ stars
But, take a fantastic story, add in amazing characters that I loved so damn hard, writing that made me hurt when Declan and Paige hurt, cry when they cried, grieve when they grieved, laugh when they laughed,felt love and joy when they did ..... yep, the writing is that bloody good I was wrecked from all the emotion that I felt.
Their journey to their happy wasn't an easy one, they had to claw and fight just to breathe through their pain at times. And this is where the author really shone, she is a medical professional and knows her stuff and it showed. It HURT to read what Declan had to live with, and where that man would've been without his brothers Liam and Kieran is anyone's guess! The author really nailed his mental health issues without boggling my brain.
There is a trigger that may be an issue for some, however I felt the author dealt with it so sensitively and wasn't brushed away. Dec and Paige were tortured for years for something that happened when they were just school kids.
Possession is by far my best read of 2017, and then some! It was utter perfection.
6+ stars
February 15, 2017
IT'S LIVE
ONE CLICK NOW
http://amzn.to/2kSwnT0
I hope you fall in love with Paige and Declan like I did. Writing them was one of the biggest challenges I have faced when it comes to writing. They are raw and honest, and I love them like they are real. I hope you do too!
ONE CLICK NOW
http://amzn.to/2kSwnT0
I hope you fall in love with Paige and Declan like I did. Writing them was one of the biggest challenges I have faced when it comes to writing. They are raw and honest, and I love them like they are real. I hope you do too!
February 20, 2017
5 emotional stars
OMG. I loved this book. It wasn't a typical second chance love story. It shows that even though people may be meant to be together, time doesn't heal all wounds and that the pain left in the past can follow you to the present.
And omg...the words A.M. Johnson wrote just spoke to me and flew off the page and it felt as if I watching what was happening to Paige and Declan right in front of me.
Speaking of Paige and Declan, they were such an amazing couple. I can honestly say that even though they had their faults, you wanted nothing but a happily ever after ending for them!
OMG. I loved this book. It wasn't a typical second chance love story. It shows that even though people may be meant to be together, time doesn't heal all wounds and that the pain left in the past can follow you to the present.
And omg...the words A.M. Johnson wrote just spoke to me and flew off the page and it felt as if I watching what was happening to Paige and Declan right in front of me.
Speaking of Paige and Declan, they were such an amazing couple. I can honestly say that even though they had their faults, you wanted nothing but a happily ever after ending for them!
May 1, 2017
This book was so damn good!
After sitting on my review for over a week for this book, I find I am still having a hard time with it.
I absolutely loved this book. It is not your usual second chance love story- it is painful and real and it touches on some very difficult subjects. This book will break you then mend you; it is so full of pain, anger and regrets. The journey back to one another is challenging and absolutely beautiful.
Mental illness plays a HUGE role in this book; the author did an amazing job of showing us that, despite the odds, each and every one of us are capable and deserving of love. We all make bad decisions, we all live with regrets- in the end, it is the lessons learned that heal us.
These two are broken in so many ways but together they are whole. The way this author writes their bond and the way their love quiets the voices and heals their hearts was an absolute gut wrenching yet glorious experience.
SONG: Emile Sande: "Read All About It-Part III"
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series; these broken men have already won my heart!
After sitting on my review for over a week for this book, I find I am still having a hard time with it.
I absolutely loved this book. It is not your usual second chance love story- it is painful and real and it touches on some very difficult subjects. This book will break you then mend you; it is so full of pain, anger and regrets. The journey back to one another is challenging and absolutely beautiful.
Mental illness plays a HUGE role in this book; the author did an amazing job of showing us that, despite the odds, each and every one of us are capable and deserving of love. We all make bad decisions, we all live with regrets- in the end, it is the lessons learned that heal us.
These two are broken in so many ways but together they are whole. The way this author writes their bond and the way their love quiets the voices and heals their hearts was an absolute gut wrenching yet glorious experience.
SONG: Emile Sande: "Read All About It-Part III"
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series; these broken men have already won my heart!
February 15, 2017
This was my first book by A.M. Johnson, and let me tell you, I was blown away! Her writing has a lyrical quality that nearly broke my kindle highlighter. It was poetic, smart, and heartbreakingly beautiful, but it was also raw and real in the best way. Second chance romances are a favorite of mine, and I loved watching Declan and Paige confront their past, face their fears, and rediscover each other and the love they once shared.
My favorite quote:
"I wanted to spend every minute in this tiny ramshackle room with this boy who thought like a man, who painted like a god, and who made me feel like I was special ... like I'd always be his."
Great story, stellar writing … just amazing! This is a total must read!!
My favorite quote:
"I wanted to spend every minute in this tiny ramshackle room with this boy who thought like a man, who painted like a god, and who made me feel like I was special ... like I'd always be his."
Great story, stellar writing … just amazing! This is a total must read!!
May 3, 2017
A.M. Johnson knocked me completely off kilter with Possession, not only because it hit a bit close to home, but because she has certainly outdone herself with this story. I can't even begin to describe all of the feelings going through me while reading this book.
A.M. Johnson managed to handle religion, mental health and family matters in a unique, heartbreaking, yet hopeful way. She will tear your heart apart just to beautifully mend it.
Just as the story, the characters were carefully, exquisitely crafted. There wasn't a moment where I didn't love Declan & Paige. Their complex but beautiful story is now bound to my very dirty soul. It may or may not contradict some people beliefs but I'm sure that at the end, their love story will make you see some things in a different light.
Dark and light blending together to create an epic love story.
If second chance romances is your thing, this is definitely a MUST READ.
Can't wait to read about Liam & Keiran.
You can find me here: FB PAGE | INSTAGRAM
February 16, 2017
Possession was my first read by A.M. Johnson, and I absolutely loved it.
One of the best things an author can do for you is make you feel. I applause Johnson for delivering a story that is complex, honest and heartfelt. Her gift to make you feel a variety of emotions, make you crave experiences is true talent.
One of the things I told Johnson after reading a very emotional scene was..
"I miss the feeling of being in love. You made me miss love Amanda."
I don't think a book has ever made me miss love the way Possession has and I read a lot of romance, let me tell you, but there was something about the complexity of this story that made me a believer of love all over again. If Declan and Paige can overcome their struggles and demons and find their way to one another again, there is hope out there for all of us. That to me is a true author's talent.
Possession may not be for everyone, but it does deserve a chance, and who knows it may very well be your favorite read of 2017.
February 9, 2017
It's easy to say 'I loved' this book. I've said it about a hundred books I've read this year. What makes this one different? I don't even know if I can define it.
This is probably AM Johnsons darkest book. It tackles some tricky subjects, ones many authors would avoid like the plague.
and that is reason number 1 why I loved it. it's brave.
I could sit and list reasons forever on why else I loved it, but the most important would be this.
These characters, these words are so VIVID. I could close my eyes and see them right there. There are some lines in this book that made me close my eyes and sigh at how beautiful they are. it borders on poetic at times.
This book is a testament to how skilled AM Johnson is as a writer and it has left me ridiculously excited for the rest of the books in this series.
5+++++ stars!
*Beta Read*
This is probably AM Johnsons darkest book. It tackles some tricky subjects, ones many authors would avoid like the plague.
and that is reason number 1 why I loved it. it's brave.
I could sit and list reasons forever on why else I loved it, but the most important would be this.
These characters, these words are so VIVID. I could close my eyes and see them right there. There are some lines in this book that made me close my eyes and sigh at how beautiful they are. it borders on poetic at times.
This book is a testament to how skilled AM Johnson is as a writer and it has left me ridiculously excited for the rest of the books in this series.
5+++++ stars!
*Beta Read*
November 11, 2016
Paige and Declan's story is incredible!! This is probably my favorite book by A.M. Johnson so far. It's dark yet hauntingly beautiful. You'll feel her words in your soul. Their story touches on real issues that some choose to ignore. These two characters invoked all the feels and it hits you right in the gut. Your heart will break for these fragile like broken souls trying to find their way back home. If art was a religion, this book would be the Bible.
February 15, 2017
A.M. Johnson delivers a beautiful story of love, loss, and most importantly forgiveness. I've read all of AM books and it's always such an epic journey to see where her next story will take us. Declan and Paige haven't seen each other in 9 years. Being kids in love and having to make decisions they weren't wise enough to be making changed them in more ways than one. Paige isn't the same. Declan isn't the same. They both have loss more than they have lived.
Can they finally put the pieces of their soul back together?!
She left me gaping, bleeding. The nails of her fingers still ripped and tore through my heart. She was gaping,she left me gaping, bleeding. The nails of her fingers still ripped and tore through my heart. She was the very specter that still sliced and clawed her way into my soul. Maybe it was time to wash myself clean of her curse.
This book was beautifully crafted to capture the true essence of both the young heart and the now matured heart.
Fall in love with Declan and Paige.
Can they finally put the pieces of their soul back together?!
She left me gaping, bleeding. The nails of her fingers still ripped and tore through my heart. She was gaping,she left me gaping, bleeding. The nails of her fingers still ripped and tore through my heart. She was the very specter that still sliced and clawed her way into my soul. Maybe it was time to wash myself clean of her curse.
This book was beautifully crafted to capture the true essence of both the young heart and the now matured heart.
Fall in love with Declan and Paige.
Read
February 23, 2017 DNF @ 65%
I did enjoyed the first part especially since the author was able to build a strong family ties between the three brothers in preparation for the series.
A second chance romance with damaged H/h? Okay! Declan and Paige were very much in love with each other but later on, they were faced with something they were too young to understand and handle.
Then suddenly...
Is there such a thing? I couldn't understand their "so called" religion where it had practically took over her parents. I get that Paige was young when she got married so she had no choice but to comply but as years went by, she never questioned it? Still believed it was as it should be? oh, come on!
I also cannot figure how Declan so easily moved past his anger towards Paige after years of brooding in it especially with his condition. He only acted grumpy on a few scenes and after that, they were a pair already.
Since then, I cannot connect with the MCs, especially with all the googly eyes. I was kind of hoping for more angst.
Also, I did noticed the use of the word sternum like 3-4 times for my covered pages which IMO was wayyyyy too much. That's why I cannot stop my eyes from rolling everytime I read it.
This book was written in past and present without any division. Some might find it confusing.
I guess this was another case of "It's not you, it's me" as the rating of this book is pretty high.
I did enjoyed the first part especially since the author was able to build a strong family ties between the three brothers in preparation for the series.
A second chance romance with damaged H/h? Okay! Declan and Paige were very much in love with each other but later on, they were faced with something they were too young to understand and handle.
Then suddenly...
"...I was to marry the pastor’s son. I was to atone for my murdering ways.”
Is there such a thing? I couldn't understand their "so called" religion where it had practically took over her parents. I get that Paige was young when she got married so she had no choice but to comply but as years went by, she never questioned it? Still believed it was as it should be? oh, come on!
I also cannot figure how Declan so easily moved past his anger towards Paige after years of brooding in it especially with his condition. He only acted grumpy on a few scenes and after that, they were a pair already.
Since then, I cannot connect with the MCs, especially with all the googly eyes. I was kind of hoping for more angst.
Also, I did noticed the use of the word sternum like 3-4 times for my covered pages which IMO was wayyyyy too much. That's why I cannot stop my eyes from rolling everytime I read it.
This book was written in past and present without any division. Some might find it confusing.
I guess this was another case of "It's not you, it's me" as the rating of this book is pretty high.
November 16, 2016
5 Utterly beautifully written stars.
Review to come.
Review to come.
January 4, 2019
PDL's Rating: 5 ‘I AM' Stars (like WHOA)
I originally rated this as a 5 Stars (Loved) but as I was writing the review, I so much more than loved this book - this story took my breath away... so it's more like a "like WHOA!"
Okay, I know it’s only February of this year but I was fortunate enough to already have read a handful of books that I am holding dear to my heart. Each one of them stirred a different part of me that made me fall in love with it for its very own reason.
Possession is truly a unique one for me personally; not in the sense that I have personal experience with the story but it impacted me in a very special way. I felt so much sorrow reading this book from the beginning to the end, yet at the same time I was overflowed with hope and love. Yes, this story raised many complicated emotions within me all at once. However, it cannot be described as a roller coaster ride, it’s slow and steady but strong feelings were evoked within me like you cannot believe! I cannot seem to get my thoughts together on this one to bring forth my love for this story the way it deserves!!
Okay, let’s get to the point – the writing is impeccable to say the least. The storyline is like no other (not for me anyway) and the characters were to die for! Declan has driven a knife through my heart and twisted it as he removed it – this may sound crazy, but I mean that in a good way. I never felt so emotionally run over as I did with Dex. I was in pain when he was hurting. The author managed to make me feel not only as I am part of the characters’ world but I was in their shoes. I am totally emotionally attached to Declan and Paige’s story like madness. I cannot get over it!!!
I am beyond thrilled that this is a series, because Dex’s family has become my family and family is life damnit!! I DEMAND YOU ALL to read this book. PLEASE read this book!! When you do, just know Dex is mine and so is Liam and Kieran for that matter – oh wait, I just called them my family, soooo… that’s kind of gross, huh? As you can see my love for this book and my emotionally confused state has taken on to a whole new level!!!
I originally rated this as a 5 Stars (Loved) but as I was writing the review, I so much more than loved this book - this story took my breath away... so it's more like a "like WHOA!"
Okay, I know it’s only February of this year but I was fortunate enough to already have read a handful of books that I am holding dear to my heart. Each one of them stirred a different part of me that made me fall in love with it for its very own reason.
Possession is truly a unique one for me personally; not in the sense that I have personal experience with the story but it impacted me in a very special way. I felt so much sorrow reading this book from the beginning to the end, yet at the same time I was overflowed with hope and love. Yes, this story raised many complicated emotions within me all at once. However, it cannot be described as a roller coaster ride, it’s slow and steady but strong feelings were evoked within me like you cannot believe! I cannot seem to get my thoughts together on this one to bring forth my love for this story the way it deserves!!
Okay, let’s get to the point – the writing is impeccable to say the least. The storyline is like no other (not for me anyway) and the characters were to die for! Declan has driven a knife through my heart and twisted it as he removed it – this may sound crazy, but I mean that in a good way. I never felt so emotionally run over as I did with Dex. I was in pain when he was hurting. The author managed to make me feel not only as I am part of the characters’ world but I was in their shoes. I am totally emotionally attached to Declan and Paige’s story like madness. I cannot get over it!!!
I am beyond thrilled that this is a series, because Dex’s family has become my family and family is life damnit!! I DEMAND YOU ALL to read this book. PLEASE read this book!! When you do, just know Dex is mine and so is Liam and Kieran for that matter – oh wait, I just called them my family, soooo… that’s kind of gross, huh? As you can see my love for this book and my emotionally confused state has taken on to a whole new level!!!
February 6, 2017
What an incredibly moving and emotional story! I cannot even express how much I loved this book. It was so much more than a second chance love story. It was a story of hope and pain and real life. A.M.'s writing is pure magic. Declan and Paige are such beautifully and tragically broken characters. The story is told perfectly from both of their points of view and they literally jumped off the page. I felt like I was right there with them experiencing the soaring highs and pitch black lows, making the amazing and emotionally charged journey beside them. There were honestly times when I had to pause to let the poetry of the author's words really sink in, because I was stunned at how truthful and raw they were.
This is not a fluffy and light read. There are hard truths and subjects that other authors wouldn't touch with a 10 foot pole, but the story isn't truly about those things. It's about understanding, bravery, forgiveness, and above all love. The love of friends. The love of family - blood or not. The love of those who see your shadows and embrace them. I am so excited to continue on with this series and am hoping we will get Liam's story next. Cannot recommend this book enough!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.*
This is not a fluffy and light read. There are hard truths and subjects that other authors wouldn't touch with a 10 foot pole, but the story isn't truly about those things. It's about understanding, bravery, forgiveness, and above all love. The love of friends. The love of family - blood or not. The love of those who see your shadows and embrace them. I am so excited to continue on with this series and am hoping we will get Liam's story next. Cannot recommend this book enough!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.*
February 16, 2017
It's hard to convey how amazing this book was. The writing was beautiful and so real. The story was raw and original. A.M. Johnson wrote about two very sensitive subjects and wrote an amazing tale about how flaws and pain are the color and beauty in all of us.
I don't usually highlight, but I highlighted all over the place in this book. The way she wrote Declan, you suffer right along with him and feel Paige's struggle to get back the life and the boy she lost.
My first A.M. Johnson book but most definitely not my last. 5+++++ stars.
I don't usually highlight, but I highlighted all over the place in this book. The way she wrote Declan, you suffer right along with him and feel Paige's struggle to get back the life and the boy she lost.
My first A.M. Johnson book but most definitely not my last. 5+++++ stars.
February 16, 2017
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
4.5 Beautifully Unique CROWNS
A.M. Johnson is so incredibly talented as a writer. Each story she creates is emotional and beautifully written, and Possession is no different. What is different, though about the first book in her Avenues Ink series is the religious as well as psychological tones of this particular romance, leaving readers with a story that is heartbreaking yet beautiful.
These characters are incredibly broken, more so than any other character I can recall reading about in a long time. The hero, Declan, struggles psychological throughout the book. He often hears voices in his head that degrade him and make him feel unworthy, and these voices induce sympathy from the reader. Hearts will break for this sensitive, yet brilliantly artistic man, with a pure and good heart. Readers will desperately want him to find his light and hold onto it. Paige has also been traumatized in her life by the people who are meant to care for her. Her religion is used to manipulate her and control her, and when she makes an attempt to rectify the mistakes of her life, she earns reader’s respect. These two together heal each other. They are damaged and broken, but with each other they find peace, they find love, and they find a life together that they both deserve.
The plot of this story will intrigue readers from the beginning, mainly due to the interesting characters and their backstories. What drives the decisions of the characters and ultimately the plot is painful to witness. They were young when it occurred and ill-equipped to handle the decisions they had to make and the effects on them individually and as a couple. This decision not only hurts them in the past, but it is still affecting them in the future. This story is about more than just their past and the mistakes they made. It is about love and how love can provide you with a safe haven, how love brings hope and healing, and how love brings peace. And, no two characters deserve peace and happiness like Paige and Declan.
No matter what A.M. Johnson writes, I know it will be beautiful. This author has a way with words, making her stories scream out the emotions of the characters. She puts readers in their place, forcing them to feel their pain and their joy, and they truly live the journey with the characters. Possession is just another example of an emotional journey that not only wrecked my hear but healed it as well, and I am excited to see where the series goes next.
----------------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other book news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com.
4.5 Beautifully Unique CROWNS
A.M. Johnson is so incredibly talented as a writer. Each story she creates is emotional and beautifully written, and Possession is no different. What is different, though about the first book in her Avenues Ink series is the religious as well as psychological tones of this particular romance, leaving readers with a story that is heartbreaking yet beautiful.
These characters are incredibly broken, more so than any other character I can recall reading about in a long time. The hero, Declan, struggles psychological throughout the book. He often hears voices in his head that degrade him and make him feel unworthy, and these voices induce sympathy from the reader. Hearts will break for this sensitive, yet brilliantly artistic man, with a pure and good heart. Readers will desperately want him to find his light and hold onto it. Paige has also been traumatized in her life by the people who are meant to care for her. Her religion is used to manipulate her and control her, and when she makes an attempt to rectify the mistakes of her life, she earns reader’s respect. These two together heal each other. They are damaged and broken, but with each other they find peace, they find love, and they find a life together that they both deserve.
The plot of this story will intrigue readers from the beginning, mainly due to the interesting characters and their backstories. What drives the decisions of the characters and ultimately the plot is painful to witness. They were young when it occurred and ill-equipped to handle the decisions they had to make and the effects on them individually and as a couple. This decision not only hurts them in the past, but it is still affecting them in the future. This story is about more than just their past and the mistakes they made. It is about love and how love can provide you with a safe haven, how love brings hope and healing, and how love brings peace. And, no two characters deserve peace and happiness like Paige and Declan.
No matter what A.M. Johnson writes, I know it will be beautiful. This author has a way with words, making her stories scream out the emotions of the characters. She puts readers in their place, forcing them to feel their pain and their joy, and they truly live the journey with the characters. Possession is just another example of an emotional journey that not only wrecked my hear but healed it as well, and I am excited to see where the series goes next.
----------------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other book news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com.
February 15, 2017
I love everything about this beautiful book. AM Johnson writes with passion. She writes with heart, and soul and balls and I fucking love it. I fell hard and fast into this story. The world just automatically felt so real and authentic and it swallowed me whole.
Dex is the kind of guy who wears his heart on his sleeve. He loves with his whole being. With everything he has, and when he hurts it consumes him just as thoroughly. He lays it all on the table and you get the feeling that as the author, A.M. Johnson puts her whole heart there that very same way.
I fell so damn fast for Liam that I wasn't sure how to feel about Paige. I had all these majorly protective feelings for my boy Declan. Much like his badass brothers, I felt like anyone who hurt him deeply didn't deserve another crack at his heart.
And then I met her. And I stepped inside her head, and I heard her thoughts, and understand her true and pure and honest intentions, I understood her story and where she was coming from and before I knew it, I loved her just as much!
This is so much more then a story about second chance love. Its a story of strength and honor, family and friendship. Its a story of two incomplete souls finding one another and only then and only then becoming WHOLE.
This is a must read!
Dex is the kind of guy who wears his heart on his sleeve. He loves with his whole being. With everything he has, and when he hurts it consumes him just as thoroughly. He lays it all on the table and you get the feeling that as the author, A.M. Johnson puts her whole heart there that very same way.
I fell so damn fast for Liam that I wasn't sure how to feel about Paige. I had all these majorly protective feelings for my boy Declan. Much like his badass brothers, I felt like anyone who hurt him deeply didn't deserve another crack at his heart.
And then I met her. And I stepped inside her head, and I heard her thoughts, and understand her true and pure and honest intentions, I understood her story and where she was coming from and before I knew it, I loved her just as much!
This is so much more then a story about second chance love. Its a story of strength and honor, family and friendship. Its a story of two incomplete souls finding one another and only then and only then becoming WHOLE.
This is a must read!
February 19, 2017
My rating could very well be related to a book funk... I don't know what's going on in my reading life. Even the other night I was looking on my Kindle to see if I could start something else. Of course all that I have on my Kindle are ones I want to read, but none were calling to me. I don't know what it is!
I still very much enjoyed this book. As I have for pretty much every book by this lovely author (haven't read the ones under her pen name yet!). This was such an interesting read from the beginning. I can't say I've read a book lately, if at all, where the main character has a mental health issue like Declan did. I'm glad AM Johnson wrote from his POV which made me understand his character a lot more. The ending was cute and bittersweet, I had a smile on my face reading the last chapter and epilogue. I'm glad after everything these 2 went through, they got their happy ending. :)
I still very much enjoyed this book. As I have for pretty much every book by this lovely author (haven't read the ones under her pen name yet!). This was such an interesting read from the beginning. I can't say I've read a book lately, if at all, where the main character has a mental health issue like Declan did. I'm glad AM Johnson wrote from his POV which made me understand his character a lot more. The ending was cute and bittersweet, I had a smile on my face reading the last chapter and epilogue. I'm glad after everything these 2 went through, they got their happy ending. :)
February 2, 2017
4 "Colourful" ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
*ARC provided by the author - thanking you kindly.
I loved Declan & Paige, their story was so beautiful & sad at the same time.
A difficult decision pushed them apart. And kept them apart for far too long.
One being forced to live in a loveless marriage, the other forced to live with the voices.
Then Paige makes a decision that changed the course of both their futures.
+ 2 sexy brothers...who love Declan fiercely.
+ 1 loyal friend, and you have a second chance romance. Beautiful.
April 18, 2017
Oh my Declan! I totally fell in love with this character. This book left me in deep thinking. I could totally understand and relate to the characters probably because I am a psychology major myself. The book is beautifully woven and I loved the fact that she created characters are perfect in their own little way. It was absolutely beautiful. It was absolutely difficult for me to put the book down. I like the fact that the author is brave enough to write this book. I may or may not have read the book twice so that I could come up with a good review but I do not think I can really justify it. 5 freaking hot scorching stars. A definite recommendation!!!
February 7, 2017
*ARC provided by the lovely author*
Possession has got to be one of A.M. Johnsons best. Its a dark angsty love story between declain and paige fighting their demons .
Especially declan hes like this lost soul that you just want to hug and tell him everything will be ok. Paige is such a sweet girl and very humble. You have to add this book to your TBRs .
This book will touch a lot of people in many different ways. Everyone deserves to have happiness and love in their lives.
Possession has got to be one of A.M. Johnsons best. Its a dark angsty love story between declain and paige fighting their demons .
Especially declan hes like this lost soul that you just want to hug and tell him everything will be ok. Paige is such a sweet girl and very humble. You have to add this book to your TBRs .
This book will touch a lot of people in many different ways. Everyone deserves to have happiness and love in their lives.
November 12, 2016
This is the First book I have read in along time that I found myself loving the Heroine the Most, A.M. Johnson writes stories that are relatable and They suck you in so You feel like you are Truly in the story she is telling, This particular story is one that is Dark But Beautiful and once you get started you can't walk away until the End
Read
September 27, 2019Spoilers ahead
Paused for now. There are a lot of vague reviews for this book so I can't get answers to my questions which makes it tough to decide whether I want to continue or not. I'd think there had to be a really,really, really, really good reason why she left him and married someone else especially given his mental condition. Also would she have left the OM if he hadn't cheated? She'd already stayed for so long it seems to me the cheating was her reason for leaving. Then there's the fact that she had an abortion ( I assume) I'm not sure who's child it was at this point but it all combines to make me pause. Added to that we get the Hero of book 2 having sex with a chick and his book is second chance too. Do I really want that drama 😂😂 so many questions so I'm calling it quits for now.
Paused for now. There are a lot of vague reviews for this book so I can't get answers to my questions which makes it tough to decide whether I want to continue or not. I'd think there had to be a really,really, really, really good reason why she left him and married someone else especially given his mental condition. Also would she have left the OM if he hadn't cheated? She'd already stayed for so long it seems to me the cheating was her reason for leaving. Then there's the fact that she had an abortion ( I assume) I'm not sure who's child it was at this point but it all combines to make me pause. Added to that we get the Hero of book 2 having sex with a chick and his book is second chance too. Do I really want that drama 😂😂 so many questions so I'm calling it quits for now.
February 16, 2017
"Her joy was my joy. My love was her love. Her pain was my pain. Paige and I were one."
I read many books a year, many books a month, and many books a week. But each month, each year, each week, there is one book that always sticks with me...one that you can never forget. You can't forget where you were sitting, you can't forget how you felt, and you can't forget how beautiful the story was. One that you recommend to everyone.
This. Is. The. One.
Possession is an utterly breathtaking read. Truly. One that you can never forget reading. Every thing about this book, killed me with feels and crushed my emotions. A lot of cupcakes were consumed and a lot of tears were shed while reading. But it's not that the book is just overall sad...cause it's not. It's just so raw and real. That you feel the characters pain. Every inch.
"Without him there was no color."
Possession is the first book in the Avenues Ink Series and follows the story of Declan and Paige. Declan suffers from a mild case of schizophrenia and it has destroyed his life. Nothing has been easy for him. He's never felt normal and he knows he never will. Declan used to think he was crazy as a kid because the voices wouldn't stop. He could hear things that other people couldn't and it drove him mad.
Declan has two strong brothers, a loving mother, and a drunk of a father. His brothers have never failed and always been there for him. Even when Paige left him...breaking his heart forever. But to heal, he loses himself in art. He paints like a mad man. And he's beyond talented. He uses the amazing talents in his brothers tattoo shop...where he is a full time tattoo artist.
"She was once my ruin, and she could easily rip me apart again, and I think I'd let her."
Paige has never had an easy life. Though when she was little from the eye, it might look like she is rich, has a beloved family, and goes to a good school. But that was never the case behind closed doors. She was never really happy and never really living until Declan came into her life. Everything begin to change for both of them.
He opened up a world full of color for her and she had the strength to stop the voices. These two needed each other...they craved each other. Like an artist craves it's never paint stroke. Nothing could have prepared them for what life was about to give them.
"He was the only one that saw me...the only one."
Now years later, after serious heartbreak these two are thrust back into each others lives in an impossible way that they may not want. They both tried to move on for so long but now they are realizing they may need each other to survive this thing called life.
I read many books a year, many books a month, and many books a week. But each month, each year, each week, there is one book that always sticks with me...one that you can never forget. You can't forget where you were sitting, you can't forget how you felt, and you can't forget how beautiful the story was. One that you recommend to everyone.
This. Is. The. One.
Possession is an utterly breathtaking read. Truly. One that you can never forget reading. Every thing about this book, killed me with feels and crushed my emotions. A lot of cupcakes were consumed and a lot of tears were shed while reading. But it's not that the book is just overall sad...cause it's not. It's just so raw and real. That you feel the characters pain. Every inch.
"Without him there was no color."
Possession is the first book in the Avenues Ink Series and follows the story of Declan and Paige. Declan suffers from a mild case of schizophrenia and it has destroyed his life. Nothing has been easy for him. He's never felt normal and he knows he never will. Declan used to think he was crazy as a kid because the voices wouldn't stop. He could hear things that other people couldn't and it drove him mad.
Declan has two strong brothers, a loving mother, and a drunk of a father. His brothers have never failed and always been there for him. Even when Paige left him...breaking his heart forever. But to heal, he loses himself in art. He paints like a mad man. And he's beyond talented. He uses the amazing talents in his brothers tattoo shop...where he is a full time tattoo artist.
"She was once my ruin, and she could easily rip me apart again, and I think I'd let her."
Paige has never had an easy life. Though when she was little from the eye, it might look like she is rich, has a beloved family, and goes to a good school. But that was never the case behind closed doors. She was never really happy and never really living until Declan came into her life. Everything begin to change for both of them.
He opened up a world full of color for her and she had the strength to stop the voices. These two needed each other...they craved each other. Like an artist craves it's never paint stroke. Nothing could have prepared them for what life was about to give them.
"He was the only one that saw me...the only one."
Now years later, after serious heartbreak these two are thrust back into each others lives in an impossible way that they may not want. They both tried to move on for so long but now they are realizing they may need each other to survive this thing called life.
September 12, 2018
Oops forgot to say that I was reading this. Well listening to this 🤷🏻♀️
My bad guys. Okay so this book was weird. Like...picture a book where you wanted to but punch every character. Even the girls. Trust me, this was the book. It’s totally my fault though because I got hypnotized by the hot man cover and just clicked. After a couple of chapters I realized that I kind of disliked the main characters, a lot. I don’t even want to mention them by name but Paige and her whole relationship with her parents and her previous husband had me rollin my eyes and plotting their deaths. God, it was like everyone was brainwashed and don’t even get me started on the whole faith and church thing
Now Paige and this guy Declan, the other Mc, have a past. A rocky one at best. They were once lovers who sort of made a baby but got rid of it. From that day, they never truly healed. Declan has been dealing with his inner demons ever since then. Especially throughout the book once Paige comes back into his life. Then there’s paige who just was sort of likable but the guy she married was just a fuckin. Douchebag and a god damn cheater. I hated him. I hated her parents even more. Ugh!
Overall, it was weird. It had a cute ending though. Other than that, I will not be diving into a second book.
My bad guys. Okay so this book was weird. Like...picture a book where you wanted to but punch every character. Even the girls. Trust me, this was the book. It’s totally my fault though because I got hypnotized by the hot man cover and just clicked. After a couple of chapters I realized that I kind of disliked the main characters, a lot. I don’t even want to mention them by name but Paige and her whole relationship with her parents and her previous husband had me rollin my eyes and plotting their deaths. God, it was like everyone was brainwashed and don’t even get me started on the whole faith and church thing
Now Paige and this guy Declan, the other Mc, have a past. A rocky one at best. They were once lovers who sort of made a baby but got rid of it. From that day, they never truly healed. Declan has been dealing with his inner demons ever since then. Especially throughout the book once Paige comes back into his life. Then there’s paige who just was sort of likable but the guy she married was just a fuckin. Douchebag and a god damn cheater. I hated him. I hated her parents even more. Ugh!
Overall, it was weird. It had a cute ending though. Other than that, I will not be diving into a second book.
Want to read
October 29, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (10/29/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
Paige Simon was the only girl Declan ever loved. The only one capable of silencing his voices, the only person to ever have faith in who he was, until the day her faith turned to doubt and destroyed everything they’d made together.
Declan O ’Connell was the only person Paige could be herself with. The only one she could rely on, until the day she was forced to make a choice that would condemn them both.
They’ve had years apart, and second chances don’t belong to the damned. But when you come face to face with your savior, it’s almost impossible to walk away. In order to move beyond the sins of their past, and forever silence the demons in his head, they’ll have to risk it all.
But with love, there are real reasons to be afraid and, sometimes… your salvation is your damnation.
Blurb:
Paige Simon was the only girl Declan ever loved. The only one capable of silencing his voices, the only person to ever have faith in who he was, until the day her faith turned to doubt and destroyed everything they’d made together.
Declan O ’Connell was the only person Paige could be herself with. The only one she could rely on, until the day she was forced to make a choice that would condemn them both.
They’ve had years apart, and second chances don’t belong to the damned. But when you come face to face with your savior, it’s almost impossible to walk away. In order to move beyond the sins of their past, and forever silence the demons in his head, they’ll have to risk it all.
But with love, there are real reasons to be afraid and, sometimes… your salvation is your damnation.
November 21, 2016
I had the honor of BETA reading this masterpiece. Thats right, I said masterpiece. This is AM Johnson best work yet! Possession is Raw, Emotional and Captivating. Declan will own your soul!
You will not be able to put this book down, trust me. I love that this series is totally different than anything she has ever written before. Im so grateful that this author took a risk with this series cause it will definitely pay off. Her words are so damn beautiful and this story will be one that I will always hold close to my heart. Cant wait to read the next one!
You will not be able to put this book down, trust me. I love that this series is totally different than anything she has ever written before. Im so grateful that this author took a risk with this series cause it will definitely pay off. Her words are so damn beautiful and this story will be one that I will always hold close to my heart. Cant wait to read the next one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews