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Avenues Ink #3
Poet
Stand Alone Novel
**No Cliff Hanger**
10 "I need all of Kieran O'Connell's words" Stars!!!
NessReads~
Melissa Trujillo knows suffering. She's tasted it, touched it, injected it. Sobriety is a gift, but it isn't enough to wash away her secrets.
Kieran O'Connell knows sacrifice. He's owned it, held it between his fingers, and felt it in his knees. Words are his freedom, and they've begun to fade.
Two different worlds, one moment and the Earth shifts--granting them a path.
His eyes meet hers. Her hand fits his.
Kieran finds his muse.
Melissa finds her new addiction.
But, when sin meets virtue, angels fall, and the truth, it becomes a blade. Together they'll walk the sharp edge, and if her lies cut too deep, not even his words could save her... save them.
**No Cliff Hanger**
10 "I need all of Kieran O'Connell's words" Stars!!!
NessReads~
Melissa Trujillo knows suffering. She's tasted it, touched it, injected it. Sobriety is a gift, but it isn't enough to wash away her secrets.
Kieran O'Connell knows sacrifice. He's owned it, held it between his fingers, and felt it in his knees. Words are his freedom, and they've begun to fade.
Two different worlds, one moment and the Earth shifts--granting them a path.
His eyes meet hers. Her hand fits his.
Kieran finds his muse.
Melissa finds her new addiction.
But, when sin meets virtue, angels fall, and the truth, it becomes a blade. Together they'll walk the sharp edge, and if her lies cut too deep, not even his words could save her... save them.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2017
77 people are currently reading
751 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Johnson
41 books2,044 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 156 reviews
October 14, 2017
4.5 "Red is the color of lust, and I allowed its flame to consume me," stars
If you've read the first two books in the Avenues Ink series, then you know that these stories are full of sexy, full of love, emotion... and not to be forgotten angst. Some of the angst is dark and deep. Some of it simple stubborn human emotion. Poet is no exception. Melissa and Kieran have very different pasts, but both of them struggle with moving on from them and the mistakes they think they've made. Their love story is full of sweet moments. Ups and downs and all arounds. There are emotional moments, and of course the sexy ones too.
I honestly wasn't sure how Kieran would stack up considering how he's been portrayed in his brother's books, but after reading I can say that you will NOT be disappointed by the youngest O'Connell brother!
Melissa is a character that was introduced before, and there was a bit of mystery surrounding her. You definitely get the answers you may have been asking yourself about her.
All in all this was another great read from A.M. Johnson. She manages to find a way to seamlessly blend an emotionally heavy story with a beautiful love story, and make it all feel natural and right. The title is fitting, because her words feel like poetry.
If you enjoyed book one and two, then you need Poet ASAP. If you haven't read them. You should. Right now! Then, read poet when it's out on October 15th.
https://instagram.com/p/BaJ1bCWAg5W/
https://instagram.com/p/BaJv_EuA1n2/
https://instagram.com/p/BaJq8P4A6ce/
^check out these fan edits on Instagram!
If you've read the first two books in the Avenues Ink series, then you know that these stories are full of sexy, full of love, emotion... and not to be forgotten angst. Some of the angst is dark and deep. Some of it simple stubborn human emotion. Poet is no exception. Melissa and Kieran have very different pasts, but both of them struggle with moving on from them and the mistakes they think they've made. Their love story is full of sweet moments. Ups and downs and all arounds. There are emotional moments, and of course the sexy ones too.
I honestly wasn't sure how Kieran would stack up considering how he's been portrayed in his brother's books, but after reading I can say that you will NOT be disappointed by the youngest O'Connell brother!
Melissa is a character that was introduced before, and there was a bit of mystery surrounding her. You definitely get the answers you may have been asking yourself about her.
All in all this was another great read from A.M. Johnson. She manages to find a way to seamlessly blend an emotionally heavy story with a beautiful love story, and make it all feel natural and right. The title is fitting, because her words feel like poetry.
If you enjoyed book one and two, then you need Poet ASAP. If you haven't read them. You should. Right now! Then, read poet when it's out on October 15th.
https://instagram.com/p/BaJ1bCWAg5W/
https://instagram.com/p/BaJv_EuA1n2/
https://instagram.com/p/BaJq8P4A6ce/
^check out these fan edits on Instagram!
October 17, 2017
5 "When you know... you know" STARS!
And I did know from the start that I was going to live and breath this story. All it took was one page, and I was immediately hooked.
"Drugs were never my poison, addiction was."
So reading is not my poison, A.M. Johnson's writing is. Kieran and Melissa's story really is the reason why I love reading.
With Poet, the author reached into my heart and gave me all the feels. From the prologue to the poems on the chapter headers to the story itself. I loved it all.
"She was the sin I wanted to commit."
A sinner...
An angel...
A poignant, touching, and very beautiful storyline of two fractured souls. Each one different–yet looking for the same. LOVE. I don't think this story was a second chance to love for Melissa because what she had before wasn't love, so Poet was their chance to experience real love for the first time while overcoming their own demons. It's a love story that it's gonna hurt, but at the end, every tear, every heart-stopping moment, it's going to be worth it. Worth to see them live happily ever after.
Poet is the perfect ending to one of my favorite series. Get the chance to see more of Declan and Liam was... damn there are no words to describe that moment. I cried, but there were happy tears.
This series,
This BOOK,
will hold me prisoner for a long time.
Do yourself a favor and read this series. It's never too late to get lost in A.M Johnson's beautiful, real, and devastating words.
"Each part of her was a prayer offering me release. Touching Melissa was like praying the rosary. She was the new prayer I would learn and memorize and worship. Being with her like this had the same effect on my heart, on my soul, as when I'd knelt each night with those familiar beads between my fingers."
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October 1, 2017
After meeting Kieran in Possession, I knew that the youngest O'Connell had a story to tell. I just didn't expect the words to sing to me the way that they did. Like the previous 2 books in the interconnected standalone Avenues Ink series, Poet was an emotional and moving experience. Though it can be read as a standalone, it would be best enjoyed after reading Possession and Kingdom since characters in previous books appear throughout the series.
There could not have been a more fitting title for this book. These words wrapped around my heart so tightly that at times I felt I would burst.
The book is certainly not all rainbows and unicorns and there are some very heavy, painful truths. Mistakes are made, and though my heart broke, I appreciated the fact that all the drama and angst was realistic and centered on Kieran and Mel's own insecurities and fears.
Catching up with the rest of the O'Connell clan was amazingly wonderful (I will always have a special place in my heart for Declan) and the epilogue solidifies Kieran O'Connell's place in the book boyfriend hall of fame. I cannot recommend this book and series enough!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
There could not have been a more fitting title for this book. These words wrapped around my heart so tightly that at times I felt I would burst.
She is the light and I am the shadow that chases her dawn.Kieran and Melissa's story was so heartbreakingly brilliant in it's honesty and candor. Mel's shame and guilt were almost palpable characters in this story. The demons of her past and the consequences of her decisions were so haunting. We watch her struggle to not only keep her head above water, but also to live and feel worthy of love. I found it refreshing that it was the heroine who was the more broken and dark of the pair. So often the hero swoops in and saves the heroine, but this time they saved each other. Their initial meeting had my heart rate spiking and their official introduction had me swooning and grinning like a fool. I loved their playful banter and that try as they might, they never stood a chance at not falling in love.
The book is certainly not all rainbows and unicorns and there are some very heavy, painful truths. Mistakes are made, and though my heart broke, I appreciated the fact that all the drama and angst was realistic and centered on Kieran and Mel's own insecurities and fears.
By impulse everything was lost,This is such a powerful story of acceptance and forgiveness. AM Johnson's words are so poignant and thoughtful that they will strip you bare. And right when you think that your heart can't take any more, her words will lift and heal you.
and I can't find my way... home to you.
Catching up with the rest of the O'Connell clan was amazingly wonderful (I will always have a special place in my heart for Declan) and the epilogue solidifies Kieran O'Connell's place in the book boyfriend hall of fame. I cannot recommend this book and series enough!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
October 10, 2017
AM Johnson is probably one of the most talented writers I've ever known. She hooked me with Possession and I fell in love with all of her words. As I suspected, Kieran is my favorite O'Connell. An almost priest—but no saint—he made me swoon and overheat in the same lyrical sentence. Melissa's pain was real and raw, and her fear of ruining Kieran by letting him love her breaks your heart. It's a wonderful story of discovery, passion, and redemption that stays with you.
5+ beautiful stars for this book and the entire Avenues Ink series!
5+ beautiful stars for this book and the entire Avenues Ink series!
October 16, 2017
I can't express my feelings enough for POET. AM Johnson pours her heart and soul into each novel she writes, but there's something different about Kieran and Melissa's story. It's raw. It's real. It's passionate. Every single page was better than the last. Reading Melissa's struggles and Kieran's apprehension made me FEEL for these characters. It's just so good!
Johnson wraps up the Avenues Ink Series with a beautiful HEA and more info on our other favorite characters in the series. POET will be in my re-read arsenal for sometime to come.
September 29, 2017
This book is so beautiful and haunting and just made me feeeel so much. AM Johnson is a real artist. I can't begin to express my love for this story. SO much depth and honesty, so much LOVE! This is a MUST read!
August 24, 2017
“She called me Poet because my words circled her wrists, drew her closer as she stood on that cliff and watched me fall.”
Every time I begin a new book by A.M. Johnson I think ‘there’s no way she will top her previous book’. And then she does. I have become a huge fan of her work over the years and I can honestly say that I think A.M. Johnson is by far the most underrated author in the indie genre. Her writing blows me away and just keeps getting better. I love that she gives the readers a glimpse of her incredible poetry through Kieran in this book. If you have read Possession or Kingdom (the other standalone books in the amazing Avenues Ink series) then you’ve already met Kieran. Who knew that this beautiful man was hiding in the shadows of his brothers! Poet is the final book in this series that made me fall head over heels in love with the O’Connell brothers.
“She made him smile, and it was enough…to make him feel real in a world full of fiction.”
Kieran is unlike any hero I’ve read before. He is so innocent and pure, has a heart of gold and a strong love for his faith. And his poetry!! My heart swelled with every sweet thing he said. He meets Melissa by chance, she has a troubling past that she is ashamed of, and works hard to keep her previous life hidden from Kieran.
“I’d taken his innocence like a thief in the night. He didn’t really know me. He only saw what I’d shown him and underneath the façade, I was nothing more than a liar with a wicked lure.”
There were many times throughout this story that I wanted to throat-punch Melissa!! She made me so frustrated and yet I understood where her deep shame came from. Kieran did not deserve her secrets though when he was so open with her from the start. But I loved their story regardless. Loved how they met and how it came full circle at the end.
I don’t know what else I can add, aside from saying Poet is another amazing story by the brilliant A.M. Johnson. I highly recommend Poet, and the entire Avenues Ink series!
Every time I begin a new book by A.M. Johnson I think ‘there’s no way she will top her previous book’. And then she does. I have become a huge fan of her work over the years and I can honestly say that I think A.M. Johnson is by far the most underrated author in the indie genre. Her writing blows me away and just keeps getting better. I love that she gives the readers a glimpse of her incredible poetry through Kieran in this book. If you have read Possession or Kingdom (the other standalone books in the amazing Avenues Ink series) then you’ve already met Kieran. Who knew that this beautiful man was hiding in the shadows of his brothers! Poet is the final book in this series that made me fall head over heels in love with the O’Connell brothers.
“She made him smile, and it was enough…to make him feel real in a world full of fiction.”
Kieran is unlike any hero I’ve read before. He is so innocent and pure, has a heart of gold and a strong love for his faith. And his poetry!! My heart swelled with every sweet thing he said. He meets Melissa by chance, she has a troubling past that she is ashamed of, and works hard to keep her previous life hidden from Kieran.
“I’d taken his innocence like a thief in the night. He didn’t really know me. He only saw what I’d shown him and underneath the façade, I was nothing more than a liar with a wicked lure.”
There were many times throughout this story that I wanted to throat-punch Melissa!! She made me so frustrated and yet I understood where her deep shame came from. Kieran did not deserve her secrets though when he was so open with her from the start. But I loved their story regardless. Loved how they met and how it came full circle at the end.
I don’t know what else I can add, aside from saying Poet is another amazing story by the brilliant A.M. Johnson. I highly recommend Poet, and the entire Avenues Ink series!
October 15, 2017
I LOVE A.M. Johnson's writing it's beautiful, heartbreaking, and full of so much love and POET is just the same. I have thoroughly enjoyed the O'Connell brothers in the Avenues Ink Series that I was very curious who A.M. Johnson is going to create for our former Priest career tracked brother. Kieran just has to have the best since he has been saving his virtue his entire life in what he thought was going to be a life of celibacy for God.
KIERAN- "I'd once thought that I wanted to be a priest. My obsession with the church started when I was eleven." I love Kieran's character, proud of his past and of who he is and trying to figure out his future. I love how he is passionate about God and how he finds peace and ritual with his Church. Kieran is such a unique character that you don't find any many books at all and that is why I think he is so special. His passion if pushing the pen to the paper and his texts to Melissa are so swoon worthy!
MELISSA - "I'm a liar... a thief... a user, and I've destroyed lives, including my own." Melissa is a huge transfer of power in this book compared to the other Avenues Ink Series. AM Johnson created Melissa being the heartbroken main character that you fall in love with her and all her past struggles with addiction.
I highlights so much of this story and I absolutely LOVE all the beautiful poetry sprinkled throughout the story. Now if only we can get A.M. Johnson to write a book of poetry...
This dual POV love story, has you on a emotional journey but never fear --- Johnson gives your heart the best Happily Ever After that your heart craves tied with a big red bow!
KIERAN- "I'd once thought that I wanted to be a priest. My obsession with the church started when I was eleven." I love Kieran's character, proud of his past and of who he is and trying to figure out his future. I love how he is passionate about God and how he finds peace and ritual with his Church. Kieran is such a unique character that you don't find any many books at all and that is why I think he is so special. His passion if pushing the pen to the paper and his texts to Melissa are so swoon worthy!
MELISSA - "I'm a liar... a thief... a user, and I've destroyed lives, including my own." Melissa is a huge transfer of power in this book compared to the other Avenues Ink Series. AM Johnson created Melissa being the heartbroken main character that you fall in love with her and all her past struggles with addiction.
I highlights so much of this story and I absolutely LOVE all the beautiful poetry sprinkled throughout the story. Now if only we can get A.M. Johnson to write a book of poetry...
This dual POV love story, has you on a emotional journey but never fear --- Johnson gives your heart the best Happily Ever After that your heart craves tied with a big red bow!
September 27, 2017
So 5 STARS Isn't Enough but it's the Max they will allow me. but....
I can't think of a book series that has touched me on such a basic human level of emotions than that of The Avenue Ink Series. The O'Connell brothers gave a piece of my soul that I didn't know I was missing. I felt complete and at peace after each of them. So of course when I began Kieran I knew the final piece would be in place.
Following in the giant footsteps left behind by his larger than life brothers, Kieran had a lot to prove to stand apart and live up to the O'Connell name. He exceeded expectations. Declan's emotional struggle pulls you in wanting to soothe his pain, Liam's angst a-hole ways beckons you to see behind his wall of anger, but Kieran... Kieran Kieran Kieran... he's so sweet and honestly kind. After everything his life was growing up he held onto his inner goodness and that shines in every word of this story.
And that goodness is what shines on Melissa's dark demons punching holes in their power over her. Johnson flipped the expected with Poet, placing the past demons with the female lead instead of leaving them solely on the males shoulders she lends a fairytale feel to this story. While Kieran's want to save his woman from herself of moving it is Mel's inner strength to want save herself that kept me invested.
Kieran is the kind of guy you want to bring home to meet you mother, the kind that you know will give you that fairytale ending, it might not always be perfect but he would make you never want to give up. And Mel is the strength we all want to have. The inner fight to never give up and to always keep going. This series has meant so much to me as a reader and as a person. I am so sad to seem it's completion but I am so happy to have lived these brothers stories, because once you start you will realize that you don't just read it you live it.
-Mackenzie
I can't think of a book series that has touched me on such a basic human level of emotions than that of The Avenue Ink Series. The O'Connell brothers gave a piece of my soul that I didn't know I was missing. I felt complete and at peace after each of them. So of course when I began Kieran I knew the final piece would be in place.
Following in the giant footsteps left behind by his larger than life brothers, Kieran had a lot to prove to stand apart and live up to the O'Connell name. He exceeded expectations. Declan's emotional struggle pulls you in wanting to soothe his pain, Liam's angst a-hole ways beckons you to see behind his wall of anger, but Kieran... Kieran Kieran Kieran... he's so sweet and honestly kind. After everything his life was growing up he held onto his inner goodness and that shines in every word of this story.
And that goodness is what shines on Melissa's dark demons punching holes in their power over her. Johnson flipped the expected with Poet, placing the past demons with the female lead instead of leaving them solely on the males shoulders she lends a fairytale feel to this story. While Kieran's want to save his woman from herself of moving it is Mel's inner strength to want save herself that kept me invested.
Kieran is the kind of guy you want to bring home to meet you mother, the kind that you know will give you that fairytale ending, it might not always be perfect but he would make you never want to give up. And Mel is the strength we all want to have. The inner fight to never give up and to always keep going. This series has meant so much to me as a reader and as a person. I am so sad to seem it's completion but I am so happy to have lived these brothers stories, because once you start you will realize that you don't just read it you live it.
-Mackenzie
October 3, 2017
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.*
We FINALLY get Kieran's story!!!! Yay <3
I absolutely love these boys... Liam, Declan and Kieran. I love that we get a little insight to whats going on with Liam & Declan.
Kieran... his words.... could melt the iceberg that sunk the titanic.
Mel was a bit winey for me. I think i always love the male characters in AM's books.... Mel wasn't very forthcoming on her past. But i get it. I still loved loved loved them together!!!!
<3
We FINALLY get Kieran's story!!!! Yay <3
I absolutely love these boys... Liam, Declan and Kieran. I love that we get a little insight to whats going on with Liam & Declan.
Kieran... his words.... could melt the iceberg that sunk the titanic.
Mel was a bit winey for me. I think i always love the male characters in AM's books.... Mel wasn't very forthcoming on her past. But i get it. I still loved loved loved them together!!!!
<3
January 23, 2020
"It's easy to get lost in you."
4.5 STARS
My favorite of the series! Kieran was the best "good guy" hero. This was such a fab series on family, redemption, and forgiveness. I look forward to the spinoff series.
4.5 STARS
My favorite of the series! Kieran was the best "good guy" hero. This was such a fab series on family, redemption, and forgiveness. I look forward to the spinoff series.
October 16, 2017
Favorite book in the Avenues Ink Series!!
I fall in love more and more with each book by A.M.Johnson. Her writing is amazing. Her characters are always so deep and soulful.
Melissa is a beautiful woman, haunted by her dark past. A past that has left her feeling unworthy of love. Until Kieran!
"His touch was love and soul."
Kieran O'Connell ... ah he's all the d r e a m y sighs and sexy as heck! The youngest O'Connell brother, who's pure heart could cure anyone's broken soul.
"Touching Melissa was like praying the rosary. She was the new prayer I would learn and memorize and worship."
Poet is a beautifully written story that I highly recommend.
I fall in love more and more with each book by A.M.Johnson. Her writing is amazing. Her characters are always so deep and soulful.
Melissa is a beautiful woman, haunted by her dark past. A past that has left her feeling unworthy of love. Until Kieran!
"His touch was love and soul."
Kieran O'Connell ... ah he's all the d r e a m y sighs and sexy as heck! The youngest O'Connell brother, who's pure heart could cure anyone's broken soul.
"Touching Melissa was like praying the rosary. She was the new prayer I would learn and memorize and worship."
Poet is a beautifully written story that I highly recommend.
October 2, 2017
AM Johnson is an amazing writer--we all know this. But after reading Poet, I can also say without a doubt, she is a beautiful poet as well. I've been salivating for Kieran and Melissa's story, and it was everything I hoped for. Raw ... sexy ... gritty ... honest ... it was all of these things and so much more. I'm so sad to see the end of the Avenues Ink boys, but what a wonderful way to finish the series. Five lyrical stars!!!!
October 14, 2017
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September 27, 2017
PDL's Rating: 4.5 'Poetic' Punches (Really Liked)
Poet was so beautifully written. I found myself re-reading so many lines just so I can feel it all over again. I ate these words up like no other. It’s one of those reads that you do not want to rush through, it must be savored. The opening line alone will tell you what you are in for...
“She called me Poet because my words circled her wrists, drew her closer as she stood on that cliff and watched me fall.”
You will simply devour these words if it doesn’t slay you first.
I do not want to spoil the story so I will cover my feels on the characters. As much as I wanted to dive into Kieran’s story, I must admit I was a bit hesitant and I am happy to say that I did.
“She made him smile, and it was enough…to make him feel real in a world full of fiction.”
Kieran – He is so much more than meets the eye! The man is a “sass mouth,” and I loved every bit of it. If you want a change in pace with your alpha heroes, Poet is the book for you. Don’t get me wrong, Kieran is not a pushover whatsoever. He is a mixture of Declan and Liam (his brothers if you have read the previous two books) yet he is special in his own way. If you are looking for a hero with a pure heart, open mind, a filthy mouth and an eight pack – Kieran is your man!
“I’d taken his innocence like a thief in the night. He didn’t really know me. He only saw what I’d shown him and underneath the façade, I was nothing more than a liar with a wicked lure.”
Melissa – A woman with a past that still haunts her years later; a broken heroine that is still finding her footing in life… she is night compared to Kieran’s day. There were times I wanted to scream at Melissa to do what she knows is the right thing, but even between the screams I understand her fears.
I don’t know what else to say about Poet, I just know if you want words that make you feel so much… trust in Poet. Not only have I highlighted so many quotes, lines and passages but found myself writing them down in my book of quotes for safe keeping. In Poet, you not only have a novel to consume from you also get a glimpse of the author’s poetic side and I want so much more from her!!
I leave you with...
“He held her happiness safe in his hands, but what would happen to her smile if his fingers began to shake.”
Poet was so beautifully written. I found myself re-reading so many lines just so I can feel it all over again. I ate these words up like no other. It’s one of those reads that you do not want to rush through, it must be savored. The opening line alone will tell you what you are in for...
“She called me Poet because my words circled her wrists, drew her closer as she stood on that cliff and watched me fall.”
You will simply devour these words if it doesn’t slay you first.
I do not want to spoil the story so I will cover my feels on the characters. As much as I wanted to dive into Kieran’s story, I must admit I was a bit hesitant and I am happy to say that I did.
“She made him smile, and it was enough…to make him feel real in a world full of fiction.”
Kieran – He is so much more than meets the eye! The man is a “sass mouth,” and I loved every bit of it. If you want a change in pace with your alpha heroes, Poet is the book for you. Don’t get me wrong, Kieran is not a pushover whatsoever. He is a mixture of Declan and Liam (his brothers if you have read the previous two books) yet he is special in his own way. If you are looking for a hero with a pure heart, open mind, a filthy mouth and an eight pack – Kieran is your man!
“I’d taken his innocence like a thief in the night. He didn’t really know me. He only saw what I’d shown him and underneath the façade, I was nothing more than a liar with a wicked lure.”
Melissa – A woman with a past that still haunts her years later; a broken heroine that is still finding her footing in life… she is night compared to Kieran’s day. There were times I wanted to scream at Melissa to do what she knows is the right thing, but even between the screams I understand her fears.
I don’t know what else to say about Poet, I just know if you want words that make you feel so much… trust in Poet. Not only have I highlighted so many quotes, lines and passages but found myself writing them down in my book of quotes for safe keeping. In Poet, you not only have a novel to consume from you also get a glimpse of the author’s poetic side and I want so much more from her!!
I leave you with...
“He held her happiness safe in his hands, but what would happen to her smile if his fingers began to shake.”
October 4, 2017
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.* This book captured my heart so much! The strong draw that Melissa and Kieran have to one another is intoxicating and gave me goosebumps. The light and dark within their lives made for the perfect amount of tension. As I read, I was consumed by the lies and what would happen once they were revealed. I was so taken by Kieran and his pure heart. His genuineness was so breathtaking and made my heart ache, in a good way. Melissa’s strength is admirable, and her constant internal battles made me cheer her on. This story tapped perfectly on every cylinder. I cried, oh how I cried and I LOVED IT! A.M. Johnson is a new author to me. She truly captured the best angst I have read in quite while with Poet. Rest assured I will be going back to read the previous books in this series. Her writing is just that good.
October 7, 2017
I was given an ARC of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. This is the third and final book in the Avenues Ink series and I did read the book preceding this one in the series; however, I did not read the first one. (Why not...I wonder to myself, as I write this review???) It is not necessary to read all of the books in order, as they are standalones, yet...FYI there are vague references to events that have happened in other books.
Ms. Johnson writes a detailed narrative that is easy to follow. I found myself shaking my head at the O'Connell antics, gotta love brotherly love, LOL! Anyone that has spent any amount of time with brothers knows that 'leg day' is a real thing. They all have their strengths.
I enjoyed Kieran's character a bit more than Melissa, and that might be just an exposure thing... I loved the way he loved her. The poetry.... gah! So swoony!
3.5 stars for great writing and thank you to Ms. Johnson for the ARC.
Ms. Johnson writes a detailed narrative that is easy to follow. I found myself shaking my head at the O'Connell antics, gotta love brotherly love, LOL! Anyone that has spent any amount of time with brothers knows that 'leg day' is a real thing. They all have their strengths.
I enjoyed Kieran's character a bit more than Melissa, and that might be just an exposure thing... I loved the way he loved her. The poetry.... gah! So swoony!
3.5 stars for great writing and thank you to Ms. Johnson for the ARC.
October 3, 2017
I am in awe. Like mouth opened staring at nothing, in awe. Amanda, this is your best yet. I say this after every book, but, damn I’m floored! Poet was everything and more. You gave me the good, the bad, and the ugly, and honestly, I enjoyed every second of it. Readers, if you haven’t read an AM Johnson book, shame on you. Her words will capture your soul and hand you a rose in return.
Poet is book three of Avenues Ink series and by far, in my opinion, the best. Add to your TBR today but be sure to read this amazing series in order as this is not a standalone. Her other boys, Declan and Liam, need to be heard and read in order. Just FYI. So enjoy, hold on, and get ready for a series that will blow your mind.
PS. Is it possible to give a 10 star review? Because that’s what POET deserves!
Poet is book three of Avenues Ink series and by far, in my opinion, the best. Add to your TBR today but be sure to read this amazing series in order as this is not a standalone. Her other boys, Declan and Liam, need to be heard and read in order. Just FYI. So enjoy, hold on, and get ready for a series that will blow your mind.
PS. Is it possible to give a 10 star review? Because that’s what POET deserves!
Want to read
March 14, 2020🎁 The complete Avenues Ink Series (3 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (3/14/2020)! 🎁
October 14, 2017
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
10 "I need all of Kieran O'Connell's words" Stars!!!
You know that moment when you're reading a book and you just have to stop and close your eyes and take a moment and press the book against your heart and soak up the words because it's too much. And not too much in a bad way. But too much that you have to take a minute to appreciate the breathtaking literature because once the book ends that's it, your high is gone. And even as the days go on you can't help but still live within the words and are still breathing the characters inside the pages. Because that's just how exhilarating the book was. That's what happens when writing so exceptional makes you feel everything to the core. And 'Poet' by A.M. Johnson was that and so much more.
Ever since Kieran was introduced in 'Possession' the first book in the Avenues Ink Series, I knew there was something about him that would call to me. And he didn't disappoint in the slightest. Kieran wasn't like any other H I've read before. He was pure and so innocent with a heart made of gold. He was everything good and I basked in his light. And his love of words is what spoke to me the most. The way his ink stained fingers poured his feelings onto paper left their fingerprints on my heart. I craved them and him like a starved desert seeking water. Kieran O'Connell is not like others. No, he is so much better.
"She called me Poet because my words circled her wrists, drew her closer as she stood on that cliff and watched me fall."
I need to take a minute right now and just appreciate the h, Melissa. Boy, I can't even begin to tell you how she entranced me. She was like a siren beckoning me, calling me to enter her warped mind. And I went, I jumped willingly. Melissa has gone through a lot. Her life's been a roller coaster, one bumpy ride after another. She's been to hell, and clawed her way out of the darkness. What I loved was that she wasn't a goody two-shoes or some innocent lamb. She was raw, gritty and fragile. And she didn't try to hide her vulnerability. She was a fighter, and her strength was a thing of beauty. But above everything, Mel was a survivor. Surviving countless demons and finding the light to greater and better things.
"She’d given me back the syllables, the letters, and I wanted her to have them all. I wanted each goodbye to be hers, to resonate. I didn’t know her well, but I think… I think my soul did."
"He was trust and I was a lie. He was innocence and I was wicked. I’d tell him I was everything he hated, and then show him there was no way to win me when he’d already lost."
Kieran and Mel were two characters that were destined to find each other. They both needed one another to show the other the meaning of what it is to fully accept and forgive. I lived and breathed Kieran and Mel. I couldn't get enough of their friendship, their playful banter, and especially their love. They loved so wholly. If two people were meant to be, it was definitely Kieran and Mel.
"It doesn’t matter what wrongs you’ve committed, because I’ve seen the bright white light of your soul and it’s stunning."
Amanda, I am in awe. With every book you write, it just gets better and better. I don't like picking favorites, I really don't. And don't get me wrong, I love Declan and Liam. But Kieran, OMFG, Kieran was EVERY! THING! I fell so hard for him and I was okay with giving him my heart. He was simply the best! Thank you for giving us his and Mel's story.
While I read this book there was a poem that kept creeping in my head. It's by one of my favorite writers. And I think it captures Kieran and Mel perfectly. It's called 'The Defining Moment' by Beau Taplin. And it goes like this....
"You were an unexpected surprise
The defining moment. The collision of stars
that slammed into me hard and sent my neat
little world plummeting into the ocean.
I never expected it to be you, you know?
But it is you. It's all you. And now there's no
looking back."
10 "I need all of Kieran O'Connell's words" Stars!!!
You know that moment when you're reading a book and you just have to stop and close your eyes and take a moment and press the book against your heart and soak up the words because it's too much. And not too much in a bad way. But too much that you have to take a minute to appreciate the breathtaking literature because once the book ends that's it, your high is gone. And even as the days go on you can't help but still live within the words and are still breathing the characters inside the pages. Because that's just how exhilarating the book was. That's what happens when writing so exceptional makes you feel everything to the core. And 'Poet' by A.M. Johnson was that and so much more.
Ever since Kieran was introduced in 'Possession' the first book in the Avenues Ink Series, I knew there was something about him that would call to me. And he didn't disappoint in the slightest. Kieran wasn't like any other H I've read before. He was pure and so innocent with a heart made of gold. He was everything good and I basked in his light. And his love of words is what spoke to me the most. The way his ink stained fingers poured his feelings onto paper left their fingerprints on my heart. I craved them and him like a starved desert seeking water. Kieran O'Connell is not like others. No, he is so much better.
"She called me Poet because my words circled her wrists, drew her closer as she stood on that cliff and watched me fall."
I need to take a minute right now and just appreciate the h, Melissa. Boy, I can't even begin to tell you how she entranced me. She was like a siren beckoning me, calling me to enter her warped mind. And I went, I jumped willingly. Melissa has gone through a lot. Her life's been a roller coaster, one bumpy ride after another. She's been to hell, and clawed her way out of the darkness. What I loved was that she wasn't a goody two-shoes or some innocent lamb. She was raw, gritty and fragile. And she didn't try to hide her vulnerability. She was a fighter, and her strength was a thing of beauty. But above everything, Mel was a survivor. Surviving countless demons and finding the light to greater and better things.
"She’d given me back the syllables, the letters, and I wanted her to have them all. I wanted each goodbye to be hers, to resonate. I didn’t know her well, but I think… I think my soul did."
"He was trust and I was a lie. He was innocence and I was wicked. I’d tell him I was everything he hated, and then show him there was no way to win me when he’d already lost."
Kieran and Mel were two characters that were destined to find each other. They both needed one another to show the other the meaning of what it is to fully accept and forgive. I lived and breathed Kieran and Mel. I couldn't get enough of their friendship, their playful banter, and especially their love. They loved so wholly. If two people were meant to be, it was definitely Kieran and Mel.
"It doesn’t matter what wrongs you’ve committed, because I’ve seen the bright white light of your soul and it’s stunning."
Amanda, I am in awe. With every book you write, it just gets better and better. I don't like picking favorites, I really don't. And don't get me wrong, I love Declan and Liam. But Kieran, OMFG, Kieran was EVERY! THING! I fell so hard for him and I was okay with giving him my heart. He was simply the best! Thank you for giving us his and Mel's story.
While I read this book there was a poem that kept creeping in my head. It's by one of my favorite writers. And I think it captures Kieran and Mel perfectly. It's called 'The Defining Moment' by Beau Taplin. And it goes like this....
"You were an unexpected surprise
The defining moment. The collision of stars
that slammed into me hard and sent my neat
little world plummeting into the ocean.
I never expected it to be you, you know?
But it is you. It's all you. And now there's no
looking back."
June 29, 2020
4.5 stars! Melissa is by far my favorite female character in this series. She is so strong and resilient, despite all of her demons. Gah, so sad this series is over!
October 9, 2017
Oh My Lanta 😍😍🙌🏻. I just finished Poet and 😩🤗 it was amazing loved it so much by far this book is my favorite in this series .. The feels are 💯 right now ...Kieran is just perfect .. Im just swoon .. 😍😍😍😍👍👍🙌🏻🙌🏻🤓
October 12, 2017
Poet is the third and final book in the Avenues Ink series and is about baby brother Kieran and Melissa. While this book can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the other two books in the series to have a better grasp on all the characters and storylines.
Kieran was going to be a priest, but life changes and it didn't happen for him. But he hasn't lost his faith. While attending mass, he turns to the person behind him to offer the sign of the peace, and his life is forever changed. Standing behind him is the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. That woman is Melissa.
Melissa is a recovering addict and has been through so much in her life. She has done so many things that she is ashamed of and believes she doesn't deserve to be happy or that she'll ever be good enough to accept the love of a man. She has the truly loving support of her parents, her sister, and her...nephew, but she still has secrets that she feels she needs to keep.
Kieran hasn't stopped thinking about the beautiful woman at church who ran off before he could talk to her. He reluctantly goes to his brother's home for a Halloween party, where his sister-in-law wants to introduce him to the woman who will soon be working at the new women's shelter with her. Turns out it's Melissa and Kieran isn't taking this "sign" lightly. He decides to ask her out and they begin a whirlwind romance that is sweet, hot, and heartwarming.
But what will happen if Kieran finds out about her past? What will Melissa's reaction be to Kieran's little secret about himself? I absolutely adored this story. I will admit that it was a bit of a slow start for me, but once I really got into it, I didn't want to put it down. I loved how open and honest Kieran was, expecting everyone else to be the same with him (I really related to Kieran in this part). This was a beautiful romance and a great ending to this series. I look forward to reading more from this author!
Kieran was going to be a priest, but life changes and it didn't happen for him. But he hasn't lost his faith. While attending mass, he turns to the person behind him to offer the sign of the peace, and his life is forever changed. Standing behind him is the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. That woman is Melissa.
Melissa is a recovering addict and has been through so much in her life. She has done so many things that she is ashamed of and believes she doesn't deserve to be happy or that she'll ever be good enough to accept the love of a man. She has the truly loving support of her parents, her sister, and her...nephew, but she still has secrets that she feels she needs to keep.
Kieran hasn't stopped thinking about the beautiful woman at church who ran off before he could talk to her. He reluctantly goes to his brother's home for a Halloween party, where his sister-in-law wants to introduce him to the woman who will soon be working at the new women's shelter with her. Turns out it's Melissa and Kieran isn't taking this "sign" lightly. He decides to ask her out and they begin a whirlwind romance that is sweet, hot, and heartwarming.
But what will happen if Kieran finds out about her past? What will Melissa's reaction be to Kieran's little secret about himself? I absolutely adored this story. I will admit that it was a bit of a slow start for me, but once I really got into it, I didn't want to put it down. I loved how open and honest Kieran was, expecting everyone else to be the same with him (I really related to Kieran in this part). This was a beautiful romance and a great ending to this series. I look forward to reading more from this author!
October 1, 2017
**** 5 Cranky Stars ****
I've said from the first time I met Kieran in Possession I was going to love him and I never wavered. I now know how right I was. Declan was my tortured artist while Liam was my alpha dog with a hidden heart and Kieran is my sensitive writer soul that I want to be loved by forever.
Kieran is the youngest O'Connell brother. He has always been a person to want to please people. To make them happy...yet he truly doesn't know himself or where his place was in this world. He went to seminary because in his mind that is what he thinks makes his mom happy but now he's floating in life working at Avenues Ink. With the O'Connell brothers world rocked by a loss and then the settling down of Dex and Liam, Kieran feels adrift. He writes the words he can't seem to speak in the form of poetry but lately his words don't come... that is until he meets Mel. He is intrigued and realizes he will have to work hard for her attention and her affection. His words start to flow once again. Could Mel be the answer?
Mel is a damaged soul. She's done the worst stuff imaginable all in the name of chasing that high. She has suffered loss and faced grief. She's back in the good graces of her family whom she had let down time after time. She even has a secret she hides from the world. While working with Kelly she is invited to a party that will flip her life upside down. She can't see herself in another relationship when her life is in turmoil. She doesn't think she is the best choice for someone like Kieran yet he is persistent and he captures her soul with his beautiful words.
I love Kieran. Plain and simple. He's just someone you want to know in real life. He is real and pure and yet he has a side that is waiting to be unleashed. His poetry and his words will make you swoon and I'm not a girl to be won with words but you got me Kieran. I think this is a series that tugs at your heart and makes you sigh and makes you relate. We all have pieces of the O'Connell brothers in all of us and now pieces of A.M. Johnsons soul lives on the pages of our books. We're all a little messy inside but we all deserved to be loved. Thank you for writing such a beautiful story.
I've said from the first time I met Kieran in Possession I was going to love him and I never wavered. I now know how right I was. Declan was my tortured artist while Liam was my alpha dog with a hidden heart and Kieran is my sensitive writer soul that I want to be loved by forever.
Kieran is the youngest O'Connell brother. He has always been a person to want to please people. To make them happy...yet he truly doesn't know himself or where his place was in this world. He went to seminary because in his mind that is what he thinks makes his mom happy but now he's floating in life working at Avenues Ink. With the O'Connell brothers world rocked by a loss and then the settling down of Dex and Liam, Kieran feels adrift. He writes the words he can't seem to speak in the form of poetry but lately his words don't come... that is until he meets Mel. He is intrigued and realizes he will have to work hard for her attention and her affection. His words start to flow once again. Could Mel be the answer?
Mel is a damaged soul. She's done the worst stuff imaginable all in the name of chasing that high. She has suffered loss and faced grief. She's back in the good graces of her family whom she had let down time after time. She even has a secret she hides from the world. While working with Kelly she is invited to a party that will flip her life upside down. She can't see herself in another relationship when her life is in turmoil. She doesn't think she is the best choice for someone like Kieran yet he is persistent and he captures her soul with his beautiful words.
I love Kieran. Plain and simple. He's just someone you want to know in real life. He is real and pure and yet he has a side that is waiting to be unleashed. His poetry and his words will make you swoon and I'm not a girl to be won with words but you got me Kieran. I think this is a series that tugs at your heart and makes you sigh and makes you relate. We all have pieces of the O'Connell brothers in all of us and now pieces of A.M. Johnsons soul lives on the pages of our books. We're all a little messy inside but we all deserved to be loved. Thank you for writing such a beautiful story.
October 14, 2017
We have finally got Kieran's and oh my word!! Amanda has smashed this book out of the park!
I have loved all the O'Connell in their own way and Kieran is no exception. This is such a touching story that I could not put down and loved every minute of it. The entire Avenue's Ink series has just touched me in a way that I have not felt for a long time.
This is Kieran and Mel's story and there is no way that I expected any of what happened. The intrigue, the love, and devastation that they go through just pulls right at your heart-strings and has you catching the worst case of the feels. Amanda is known for her character development and both of these characters change throughout the story in the best way possible. Melissa and Kieran are both broken in different ways and find a way to become who they both deserve to be.
It was also great to catch up with the other couples to see how they are all doing. I am going to miss this crazy bunch of brothers but hopefully with more people still working at Avenue's Ink there will be more of this beautiful bunch of people in our future.
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
I have loved all the O'Connell in their own way and Kieran is no exception. This is such a touching story that I could not put down and loved every minute of it. The entire Avenue's Ink series has just touched me in a way that I have not felt for a long time.
This is Kieran and Mel's story and there is no way that I expected any of what happened. The intrigue, the love, and devastation that they go through just pulls right at your heart-strings and has you catching the worst case of the feels. Amanda is known for her character development and both of these characters change throughout the story in the best way possible. Melissa and Kieran are both broken in different ways and find a way to become who they both deserve to be.
It was also great to catch up with the other couples to see how they are all doing. I am going to miss this crazy bunch of brothers but hopefully with more people still working at Avenue's Ink there will be more of this beautiful bunch of people in our future.
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
October 21, 2017
I loved the previous books a lot more than this one..
This was a good read, the writing was good. But I didn't connect with the female lead as much. I saw a lot more pain and suffering in the previous books. I was rooting for the previous characters. This book was good. But it was neither heart breaking or too heart warming.
This was a good read, the writing was good. But I didn't connect with the female lead as much. I saw a lot more pain and suffering in the previous books. I was rooting for the previous characters. This book was good. But it was neither heart breaking or too heart warming.
October 18, 2017
Review to come.
October 3, 2017
AM Johnson has a way with words and in her third and final installment of the Avenue Ink series, Poet, her words are just that - poetic. Kieran O’Connell, the youngest of the O’Connell brothers, has lost his words. He can’t seem to put anything on paper. His feelings of guilt and disappointment and lack of love and manhood engulf him. Melissa Trujillo is a recovering addict and feels unworthy of love and happiness. Fighting everyday to be strong and sober, she fears failure and falling to her demons once again. The two meet and the connection is strong. Can they heal each other and find their happiness together? Poet is full of beautiful words and lots of emotions. Told dual POV, you experience the ups and downs of Kieran and Melissa. I have to say, Poet completes the series beautifully.
October 1, 2017
Both Possession and Kingdom stole my heart but THIS ONE has been the most emotional and poetic book I have read by this author. I legit wrote around 350 words of review for POET but then the draft got deleted and I am SO PISSED! Because I wrote it as soon as I finished the book!
But luckily, Poet was so good that I could still remember every detail and emotional I felt throughout the story.
All I can say is that you will be surprised by Kieran in so many ways, he is so different from the Kieran we saw in Kingdom and Possession. And He is honestly my favorite O'Connell, like officially, you will know what I mean when you read the book .
Melissa though! That girl! I LOVE HER . I love her for being her, I love her for being strong, the amount of shit life has given her was impossible yet she managed to survive and it was truly amazing and inspirational.
The whole book is just AH MAZINGGG
But luckily, Poet was so good that I could still remember every detail and emotional I felt throughout the story.
All I can say is that you will be surprised by Kieran in so many ways, he is so different from the Kieran we saw in Kingdom and Possession. And He is honestly my favorite O'Connell, like officially, you will know what I mean when you read the book .
Melissa though! That girl! I LOVE HER . I love her for being her, I love her for being strong, the amount of shit life has given her was impossible yet she managed to survive and it was truly amazing and inspirational.
The whole book is just AH MAZINGGG
October 17, 2017
AM Johnson IS the Poet. Her words flow like prose, beautiful and lyrical. I loved Keiran’s pure and honest soul and Mel’s harrowing vulnerability. These characters crept their way into my heart, flaws and all, and I will definitely be backtracking to read more of this series!
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