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Surviving Me
Deceit has a certain allure when your life doesn t match up to the ideal. Tom has decided he doesn't want to live. Adam wishes he had a choice. Tom's lost his job and now he's been labelled 'spermless'. He doesn't exactly feel like a modern man, although his double life helps. Yet when his secret identity threatens to unravel, he starts to lose the plot and comes perilously close to the edge. All the while Adam has his own duplicity, albeit for very different reasons, reasons which will blow the family's future out of the water. If they can't be honest with themselves, and everyone else, then things are going to get a whole lot more complicated.
- GenresFiction
304 pages, Paperback
Published November 14, 2019
12 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Jo Johnson
11 books44 followersI’m very excited to announce my second novel.
Surviving Her is dual-narrative, domestic suspense. It combines engaging, complex characters with a fast-moving plot that explores what goes on behind fancy doors!
I’m told it’s a timely page turner, it’s a novel novel and I have a unique voice (my kids say a scratchy and irritating one but hey!)
I qualified as a clinical psychologist in 1992 specialising in neurology since 2000. I worked for fifteen years within the NHS but in 2008 made an impulsive decision to leave in order to write and explore new projects.
I continue to practise psychology hoping one day to become perfect at it! In my spare time I love writing fiction and given my day job I believe I can write characters who could be real.
Surviving Her is dual-narrative, domestic suspense. It combines engaging, complex characters with a fast-moving plot that explores what goes on behind fancy doors!
I’m told it’s a timely page turner, it’s a novel novel and I have a unique voice (my kids say a scratchy and irritating one but hey!)
I qualified as a clinical psychologist in 1992 specialising in neurology since 2000. I worked for fifteen years within the NHS but in 2008 made an impulsive decision to leave in order to write and explore new projects.
I continue to practise psychology hoping one day to become perfect at it! In my spare time I love writing fiction and given my day job I believe I can write characters who could be real.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
March 17, 2020
Surviving Me by Jo Johnson
This book was a great read for me. As a member of the medical community, I loved the highlight of men’s mental health as well as inherited genetic illness within the story line. However, this book is more than that – it is really a beautifully written book about an amazing motley crew of characters that were well written, interesting, and very insightful. Many times, the read does become heart breaking and heart wrenching. I love reading about the community and the people that gather to support each other. Tom is such a unique character with such a sad disposition and you cannot help but root for him throughout the book. In Tom’s personal narrative, you get the story and background of the crisis he is facing as we learn about his family life – Harry his best friend and wife Siri. The story is completely relatable and realistic that addressed serious issues with a touch of humor that also gives a balance of hope. Jo Johnson did an amazing job in this book. Johnson’s writing was spot on, and ensured that we all have our stories, our reasons for how we want to be perceived, how we all struggle inside despite the smile we have on our faces. I highly recommend this book for a fascinating read. Jo Johnson is an author to watch and I am a fan.
This book was a great read for me. As a member of the medical community, I loved the highlight of men’s mental health as well as inherited genetic illness within the story line. However, this book is more than that – it is really a beautifully written book about an amazing motley crew of characters that were well written, interesting, and very insightful. Many times, the read does become heart breaking and heart wrenching. I love reading about the community and the people that gather to support each other. Tom is such a unique character with such a sad disposition and you cannot help but root for him throughout the book. In Tom’s personal narrative, you get the story and background of the crisis he is facing as we learn about his family life – Harry his best friend and wife Siri. The story is completely relatable and realistic that addressed serious issues with a touch of humor that also gives a balance of hope. Jo Johnson did an amazing job in this book. Johnson’s writing was spot on, and ensured that we all have our stories, our reasons for how we want to be perceived, how we all struggle inside despite the smile we have on our faces. I highly recommend this book for a fascinating read. Jo Johnson is an author to watch and I am a fan.
June 17, 2020
Jo Johnson is an author I will be keeping my eye on after this. Surviving Me was a fantastic debut novel. Her writing style is wonderful, and her character building is remarkable.
Everyone has a story, and in Surviving Me, the authenticity of the characters really shines through. Tom, as a main character, is such a realistic character, you’d think he was real. Through his story, we learn much more about him and other characters. I love the deepness of this.
Surviving Me tackles health – both physical and mental, through a male perspective. I think that is such a unique and compelling topic. Jo Johnson shows her writing abilities by taking this route.
Compelling, sensitive, and rounded out with a a little humor, I definitely recommend Surviving Me.
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Everyone has a story, and in Surviving Me, the authenticity of the characters really shines through. Tom, as a main character, is such a realistic character, you’d think he was real. Through his story, we learn much more about him and other characters. I love the deepness of this.
Surviving Me tackles health – both physical and mental, through a male perspective. I think that is such a unique and compelling topic. Jo Johnson shows her writing abilities by taking this route.
Compelling, sensitive, and rounded out with a a little humor, I definitely recommend Surviving Me.
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
November 15, 2019
Poignant, powerful and important; I loved this book. I was lucky to be given an advanced copy and could not put it down. I was utterly gripped as, from the outset, I was completely invested in what was happening to Tom, the flawed and errant protagonist.
In fact, all of the characters are so well drawn that I cared about them all and that, coupled with an easily accessible writing style, made this an absorbing read. Although the main theme is one of a man's life unravelling, there is also humour (like all the best tragedies), and I often found myself chuckling at the author's turn of phrase. Having said that, it is also profoundly wise and I believe it could actually be of help to people facing adversity. Jo Johnson is a highly regarded psychologist and now a brilliant author and I predict that Surviving Me will be a huge success.
In fact, all of the characters are so well drawn that I cared about them all and that, coupled with an easily accessible writing style, made this an absorbing read. Although the main theme is one of a man's life unravelling, there is also humour (like all the best tragedies), and I often found myself chuckling at the author's turn of phrase. Having said that, it is also profoundly wise and I believe it could actually be of help to people facing adversity. Jo Johnson is a highly regarded psychologist and now a brilliant author and I predict that Surviving Me will be a huge success.
August 17, 2019
This book was a page turner from the very beginning, I could not put it down! I loved how the author built the characters and made me care about each and everyone of them. I felt like I had entered their world and could imagine the places and the people as if they were real. She has also raised the issue of mens mental health giving a platform to discuss this issue that affects so many. I am only sorry that I have now turned the last page and finished, roll on the next book! Thanks to Unbound publishers for giving me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2019
This is a beautiful, heart wrenching but incredibly insightful book, looking at really tough real-life issues of emotional trauma in childhood, unemployment, infertility, male mental health and genetically inherited medical conditions.
Tom is mostly the narrator and has such a quirky, funny and sad way of looking at life. He is likeable, endearing and it breaks the reader's heart to 'watch' him break down and decide to end his life. Siri, his wife, a radio presenter, is less likeable but as the novel progresses you are able to understand her a little better.
Dawn is the feisty owner of a café which is more like a community drop in centre for those in need of love, kindness and acceptance and it is here that Tom forges a different existence running in parallel with his real life with Siri. At the café he meets Lydia, a teenager who finds herself pregnant and unwilling to share the news with her staunchly Christian parents.
Then there is Adam, Siri's brother, who is acting weirdly and appears to be very unwell. What will the diagnosis be and how hard will it be for the family to accept what is happening to, and facing, this young man?
Tom has a best friend Harry and Harry certainly lives up to the moniker. Without Harry to give Tom a different perspective and to have helped him so much as youngsters growing up together, Tom really would be doomed.
Families are complicated social systems, love is an incredibly complex emotion, and without a doubt living and dying require an awful lot of effort too.
I was so totally blown away by Jo Johnson's portrayal of all these issues whilst managing to write a very readable and enjoyable novel. I did not want to get to the last page - and there is a great twist at the end that shocked me and stunned me with the simple cleverness of it -purely because Tom et al were my friends, my neighbours, my colleagues and I did not want to leave them without knowing how they were all faring.
Please write a second novel Jo Johnson. I am top of the list for reading it!
Tom is mostly the narrator and has such a quirky, funny and sad way of looking at life. He is likeable, endearing and it breaks the reader's heart to 'watch' him break down and decide to end his life. Siri, his wife, a radio presenter, is less likeable but as the novel progresses you are able to understand her a little better.
Dawn is the feisty owner of a café which is more like a community drop in centre for those in need of love, kindness and acceptance and it is here that Tom forges a different existence running in parallel with his real life with Siri. At the café he meets Lydia, a teenager who finds herself pregnant and unwilling to share the news with her staunchly Christian parents.
Then there is Adam, Siri's brother, who is acting weirdly and appears to be very unwell. What will the diagnosis be and how hard will it be for the family to accept what is happening to, and facing, this young man?
Tom has a best friend Harry and Harry certainly lives up to the moniker. Without Harry to give Tom a different perspective and to have helped him so much as youngsters growing up together, Tom really would be doomed.
Families are complicated social systems, love is an incredibly complex emotion, and without a doubt living and dying require an awful lot of effort too.
I was so totally blown away by Jo Johnson's portrayal of all these issues whilst managing to write a very readable and enjoyable novel. I did not want to get to the last page - and there is a great twist at the end that shocked me and stunned me with the simple cleverness of it -purely because Tom et al were my friends, my neighbours, my colleagues and I did not want to leave them without knowing how they were all faring.
Please write a second novel Jo Johnson. I am top of the list for reading it!
December 11, 2019
Tom, a window salesman and his wife Siri, a radio presenter, have been married for a year and are in the process of trying for a baby. Disillusioned with their romantic life starting to feel like a chore, Tom is devastated when he is humiliated by his evil boss and told his services are now surplus to requirements. Unable to tell Siri and jeopardise her 5 year plan, he takes to going out every day at the same time and pretending to go to work. He happens upon an out of town cafe where the misfit clientele start to feel like the family he never really had.
When the much-longed for baby fails to appear as expected, Tom and Siri have to undergo a series of invasive medical tests to see if there is a more serious problem underlying their lack of conception. Tom, already on a downward spiral finds it increasingly hard to deal with what's happening, with potentially devastating results. Siri's brother Adam is also starting to act really strangely; making inappropriate remarks, stumbling and becoming accident prone - and Tom, and his best friend Harry are unsure as to what the problem is.
It's hard to go into much more detail without giving away any of the plot lines, however I read this book before it was released as part of the Pigeonhole book group and I was really surprised to find that it was the author Jo Johnson's first book. It's an absolute triumph. The characters are so well written, irritating at times, but ultimately good - and you can't help but root for them. Importantly though, there are some very serious themes running through the book, that lessen the brevity and really focus on the human cost of secrets and lies that are going on beneath the surface, however well intentioned.
Thanks to the Pigeonhole for another great read - this is my honest and unbiased review.
When the much-longed for baby fails to appear as expected, Tom and Siri have to undergo a series of invasive medical tests to see if there is a more serious problem underlying their lack of conception. Tom, already on a downward spiral finds it increasingly hard to deal with what's happening, with potentially devastating results. Siri's brother Adam is also starting to act really strangely; making inappropriate remarks, stumbling and becoming accident prone - and Tom, and his best friend Harry are unsure as to what the problem is.
It's hard to go into much more detail without giving away any of the plot lines, however I read this book before it was released as part of the Pigeonhole book group and I was really surprised to find that it was the author Jo Johnson's first book. It's an absolute triumph. The characters are so well written, irritating at times, but ultimately good - and you can't help but root for them. Importantly though, there are some very serious themes running through the book, that lessen the brevity and really focus on the human cost of secrets and lies that are going on beneath the surface, however well intentioned.
Thanks to the Pigeonhole for another great read - this is my honest and unbiased review.
November 14, 2019
This is author Jo Johnson’s first book and what an excellent start it is to being a published author. The genius of the story lies in the authenticity of its characters and the old but often forgotten notion that everyone has a story even those who seem so balanced and together, not merely those at the end of their tether.
The story starts off through Tom’s own narrative and by association we learn more about his home life, his best friend Harry, his wife Siri and her family. We are given an in depth look at the main character’s thought process as the story unwinds with glimpses into Tom’s past and formative years and his present life and current crises he’s facing.
This book is unusual in that it tackles the subject of mental and physical health from a man’s perspective. Information was provided about Huntingdon’s disease and the impact it has not only on the sufferer but also on the family, both present and future by carriers of the gene.
This is a good look at how we become affected by what we’ve been told as children and how these thoughts often colour our self-perception and decisions. The topic of emotional distress is written about sensitively and balanced by touches of humour. Ultimately, the story is sad, and funny and uplifting and complex and oh, so so real! The twist in the end gave the story added impetus for me. 4 and a half stars. Congratulations I’ll be looking out for the sequel.
The story starts off through Tom’s own narrative and by association we learn more about his home life, his best friend Harry, his wife Siri and her family. We are given an in depth look at the main character’s thought process as the story unwinds with glimpses into Tom’s past and formative years and his present life and current crises he’s facing.
This book is unusual in that it tackles the subject of mental and physical health from a man’s perspective. Information was provided about Huntingdon’s disease and the impact it has not only on the sufferer but also on the family, both present and future by carriers of the gene.
This is a good look at how we become affected by what we’ve been told as children and how these thoughts often colour our self-perception and decisions. The topic of emotional distress is written about sensitively and balanced by touches of humour. Ultimately, the story is sad, and funny and uplifting and complex and oh, so so real! The twist in the end gave the story added impetus for me. 4 and a half stars. Congratulations I’ll be looking out for the sequel.
August 25, 2019
Firstly, thanks to Unbound Publishers for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is absolutely my sort of book, funny and poignant with a fabulous ending.
The book begins with Siri learning that her husband Tom has gone missing. It then “rewinds” so that we discover what has led up to his disappearance. As a secondary thread Siri’s brother Adam also appears to be struggling with his own mental health problems.
There are too few fiction books around that deal with mental health issues and even less that deal with male mental health. The author highlights the issues, contributing factors and warning signs beautifully and clearly knows her stuff. Huntington’s disease is also an illness that people are not generally aware of and the author’s description of the steady decline of the character touch on all of the early indications of this disease.
This book takes these two subjects and in a wonderfully written and informative (without being patronising) way raises awareness of them whilst being an excellent story too.
This is absolutely my sort of book, funny and poignant with a fabulous ending.
The book begins with Siri learning that her husband Tom has gone missing. It then “rewinds” so that we discover what has led up to his disappearance. As a secondary thread Siri’s brother Adam also appears to be struggling with his own mental health problems.
There are too few fiction books around that deal with mental health issues and even less that deal with male mental health. The author highlights the issues, contributing factors and warning signs beautifully and clearly knows her stuff. Huntington’s disease is also an illness that people are not generally aware of and the author’s description of the steady decline of the character touch on all of the early indications of this disease.
This book takes these two subjects and in a wonderfully written and informative (without being patronising) way raises awareness of them whilst being an excellent story too.
March 30, 2020
Wow! I absolutely loved this story and finished it within a day. Heartbreaking and heart warming at the same time, it totally took me by surprise. I loved the characters and wish I could be a part of the cafe misfits! Read this book when you can, it really won't disappoint. I've sat up to past 1am to get it finished!!
Thank you so much to the author and the Pigeonhole app for giving me an advanced copy to read.
Thank you so much to the author and the Pigeonhole app for giving me an advanced copy to read.
November 29, 2019
Loved this book so much from start to finish.Beautiful.
March 24, 2020
This has been probably one of the most engaging books I've read this year. The reason: it's very real, believable, and features topics that we just don't talk enough about. I loved it!
Written primarily for the dual viewpoints of Tom and his wife, Siri, the story eases us into their everyday life. Siri wants a baby, but it's not happening which starts to create tensions. So when Tom loses his job, he's wary of telling Siri, and hopes to find a new one quickly and then break the news.
But the new job doesn't happen, and Tom's insecurities mount. Rather than face up to the truth, he continues his regular routine, pretending to go to work, and with each passing day it becomes harder to tell her.
What does he do then, when he's pretending to be at work? He drives around, not too far because fuel costs money, but eventually stops off at a café in a small village where he can be anonymous while applying for jobs on his laptop. Here there are no expectations, no judgements to be made.
But this is no ordinary café, or rather the owner and the regulars are not so easily duped. While keeping their distance, they notice him ...and his visits become more frequent and longer lasting. He finds himself intrigued by them too, especially a young girl. Lydia, who sits alone by the window, lost in her own world.
At home, Siri is still fretting about not conceiving, so both visits the doctors for tests. When Tom finds out he is infertile, this is another blow to his confidence. Already feeling pretty worthless, knowing he can't give Siri the one thing she wants tips him over the edge. His own personal depression is not helped by other worries about his brother-in-law's odd behaviour. In all, everything seems to be going wrong.
You'll have to read for yourself what happens next - you won't be disappointed. There are moments of sadness, poignancy, hope and despair, but above all, there's a sense of love, togetherness, and community.
I don't have any personal experience of depression, but there is a genuine sense of vulnerability in many of the characters. They are real people, with real flaws and issues, and a very real British approach to such issues - i.e. say nothing and it'll all go away! Asking for help seems so hard, but absolutely nothing to be worried about or ashamed of.
I don't want to give the impression that this story is a hard or a heavy read; it's not. It flows effortlessly and will scoop you up for the ride. Emotions are laid bare, but that means humour and hope rise to the surface and will make you smile. I particularly appreciated the male perspective from Tom given that male suicide is such a major problem among younger men. It's easy to see how life can become too much, and by not talking about it, the future seems too bleak. Kudos to the author for tackling this head on and with such clarity.
The ending is possibly one of the greatest twists I've read in recent months. Delivered with great subtlety but with the power of a sledgehammer! Fabulous, and I hope it leads to a sequel.
Written primarily for the dual viewpoints of Tom and his wife, Siri, the story eases us into their everyday life. Siri wants a baby, but it's not happening which starts to create tensions. So when Tom loses his job, he's wary of telling Siri, and hopes to find a new one quickly and then break the news.
But the new job doesn't happen, and Tom's insecurities mount. Rather than face up to the truth, he continues his regular routine, pretending to go to work, and with each passing day it becomes harder to tell her.
What does he do then, when he's pretending to be at work? He drives around, not too far because fuel costs money, but eventually stops off at a café in a small village where he can be anonymous while applying for jobs on his laptop. Here there are no expectations, no judgements to be made.
But this is no ordinary café, or rather the owner and the regulars are not so easily duped. While keeping their distance, they notice him ...and his visits become more frequent and longer lasting. He finds himself intrigued by them too, especially a young girl. Lydia, who sits alone by the window, lost in her own world.
At home, Siri is still fretting about not conceiving, so both visits the doctors for tests. When Tom finds out he is infertile, this is another blow to his confidence. Already feeling pretty worthless, knowing he can't give Siri the one thing she wants tips him over the edge. His own personal depression is not helped by other worries about his brother-in-law's odd behaviour. In all, everything seems to be going wrong.
You'll have to read for yourself what happens next - you won't be disappointed. There are moments of sadness, poignancy, hope and despair, but above all, there's a sense of love, togetherness, and community.
I don't have any personal experience of depression, but there is a genuine sense of vulnerability in many of the characters. They are real people, with real flaws and issues, and a very real British approach to such issues - i.e. say nothing and it'll all go away! Asking for help seems so hard, but absolutely nothing to be worried about or ashamed of.
I don't want to give the impression that this story is a hard or a heavy read; it's not. It flows effortlessly and will scoop you up for the ride. Emotions are laid bare, but that means humour and hope rise to the surface and will make you smile. I particularly appreciated the male perspective from Tom given that male suicide is such a major problem among younger men. It's easy to see how life can become too much, and by not talking about it, the future seems too bleak. Kudos to the author for tackling this head on and with such clarity.
The ending is possibly one of the greatest twists I've read in recent months. Delivered with great subtlety but with the power of a sledgehammer! Fabulous, and I hope it leads to a sequel.
January 25, 2023
JO JOHNSON: SURVIVING ME.
After hearing so much positive feedback about Jo Johnson’s writing, my fomo (fear of missing out) kicked in, and all resolve not to buy any more books until I’ve made a crater sized dent in the pile that I already have, flew shamelessly out of the window. Yet again, there I was pressing ‘buy’.
So, I thought I’d kick off my Jo Johnson journey with the audio book of Surviving Me.
Poor old Tom is having a rough time of things. He’s lost his job and he can’t bring himself to share the news with his wife Siri.
Add in the couple’s struggle to conceive a baby and Tom is close to rock bottom.
Siri is a seemingly confident and outgoing radio presenter.
Each day, the couple go through the motions, but Tom is keeping this big secret from the wife he loves.
It of course goes without saying, that Tom can’t live a double life forever.
I liked Tom from the start. My heart broke for him when things were truly at their worst.
Siri, I initially thought was a bit of a high maintenance, spoilt madam. However, through some very clever writing, I grew to like and understand Siri. Her journey was a difficult one too and I really did feel for her.
Written mainly from Tom’s point of view, with the occasional chapter from Siri, this is largely Tom’s story about his battle with his mental health and finding a way through.
This story really is quite special. There is a wonderful mix of characters. They are vibrant and bring the story to life.
Jo Johnson is clearly a gifted writer. Her words flow effortlessly through the pages and could easily have come from the pen of one with many more years of writing experience under their belt.
Surviving Me is a very moving and emotional story, but there is also humour peppered throughout.
The story is poignant, intuitive, interesting and clever.
Yes, the book deals with some awfully difficult and heart wrenching subjects, but they amazingly come together into an enjoyable and captivating read.
There is a twist at the end that I didn’t see coming at all, but oh my goodness, I was stunned. Genuinely, my first thought was, ‘wow, that’s brilliant!’
So if you haven’t already done so, grab yourself a book by Jo Johnson. I’m excited to see where her career will have taken her to in five years time.
Good luck to you Jo, and as for Surviving Me, well I couldn’t possibly give it anything less than five stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
After hearing so much positive feedback about Jo Johnson’s writing, my fomo (fear of missing out) kicked in, and all resolve not to buy any more books until I’ve made a crater sized dent in the pile that I already have, flew shamelessly out of the window. Yet again, there I was pressing ‘buy’.
So, I thought I’d kick off my Jo Johnson journey with the audio book of Surviving Me.
Poor old Tom is having a rough time of things. He’s lost his job and he can’t bring himself to share the news with his wife Siri.
Add in the couple’s struggle to conceive a baby and Tom is close to rock bottom.
Siri is a seemingly confident and outgoing radio presenter.
Each day, the couple go through the motions, but Tom is keeping this big secret from the wife he loves.
It of course goes without saying, that Tom can’t live a double life forever.
I liked Tom from the start. My heart broke for him when things were truly at their worst.
Siri, I initially thought was a bit of a high maintenance, spoilt madam. However, through some very clever writing, I grew to like and understand Siri. Her journey was a difficult one too and I really did feel for her.
Written mainly from Tom’s point of view, with the occasional chapter from Siri, this is largely Tom’s story about his battle with his mental health and finding a way through.
This story really is quite special. There is a wonderful mix of characters. They are vibrant and bring the story to life.
Jo Johnson is clearly a gifted writer. Her words flow effortlessly through the pages and could easily have come from the pen of one with many more years of writing experience under their belt.
Surviving Me is a very moving and emotional story, but there is also humour peppered throughout.
The story is poignant, intuitive, interesting and clever.
Yes, the book deals with some awfully difficult and heart wrenching subjects, but they amazingly come together into an enjoyable and captivating read.
There is a twist at the end that I didn’t see coming at all, but oh my goodness, I was stunned. Genuinely, my first thought was, ‘wow, that’s brilliant!’
So if you haven’t already done so, grab yourself a book by Jo Johnson. I’m excited to see where her career will have taken her to in five years time.
Good luck to you Jo, and as for Surviving Me, well I couldn’t possibly give it anything less than five stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 2, 2020
Insightful, heartbreaking and an amazing read.
January 14, 2020
A sincere thank you to the publisher, author and Netgalley for providing me an ebook copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. I enjoyed this story very much and felt like I knew each character personally due to the description of them. I enjoyed the storyline. This is not my usual genre but in this instance I am extremely pleased and grateful for opening up my mind to something totally different. Thanks again.
August 16, 2020
2.5 stars. It's not terrible, but the writing style really put me off. Scenes jumped about all over the place and character development was not great. Some potential there, but a bit disappointed tbh. And the 'twist' just irritated me.
March 20, 2020
This book was a page turner from the beginning to end.
I really liked that it’s message about struggling through life and the worries life brings is from a mans perspective as this is something you don’t hear much of.
The characters were all likeable and had their own unique characteristics and I loved the way a community all comes together.
There’s were many moments of heartbreak in the story wether you can relate to the situation or not it makes you feel sorrow for the main character Tom.
I really liked that it’s message about struggling through life and the worries life brings is from a mans perspective as this is something you don’t hear much of.
The characters were all likeable and had their own unique characteristics and I loved the way a community all comes together.
There’s were many moments of heartbreak in the story wether you can relate to the situation or not it makes you feel sorrow for the main character Tom.
October 7, 2019
Firstly I need to thank Jo Johnson and Unbound for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
This is a hard one! I enjoyed the book and read it in under 24 hours. I wanted to know what happened, and felt a genuine empathy (if some irritation) with the main characters.
My reason for only 3 stars is that I felt in some ways, whilst it highlighted male mental health issues, it in some ways trivialised them, by just making it part of a ‘plot’. Tom, the main protagonist is suicidal, but just happens to meet all the right people to put him back on track. I found this far fetched, as we all know many suffer depression alone. He also refused to take medication, as he doesn’t believe he’s depressed, and his best friend agrees with him, possibly a dangerous message in some ways. Even the fact that he very quickly into the story starts to discuss his issues with others seems unlikely, and feels used to pull the narrative together. A lot of the plot just felt too ‘convenient’, and just a vehicle to reach the outcomes. I’d be interested to get a male view on whether Tom’s use of his relationships feels realistic, in terms of both the build up to his suicide decision, particularly with his friend Harry, and his subsequent interactions both with family and the cafe community. His thoughts and emerging friendships seem quite ‘female’ in their development - I may be wrong!
Adam’s storyline was also intriguing but again, I didn’t feel there was enough. I wanted to know more, how did he feel about what was happening to him, how did his wife feel. Unfortunately these characters were too one dimensional for me to get a real feel for their story.
I also found the religious thread unnecessary, and wasn’t sure how it fitted. It just felt like the author wanted to include an element of faith, but for me this didn’t sit well alongside the psychology of the book.
I had an idea as to where the ending might go, but it still came as a shock, leaving me feeling like I’d read a thriller. I was quite pleased that all the ends weren’t tied up as neatly as it felt the author was attempting throughout the book.
Overall, a good read, but I finished not quite knowing what the authors intention was, what the message is, and a bit disappointed that some really good ideas didn’t quite translate into the ‘meatiness’ I had expected from a book examining male mental health.
This is a hard one! I enjoyed the book and read it in under 24 hours. I wanted to know what happened, and felt a genuine empathy (if some irritation) with the main characters.
My reason for only 3 stars is that I felt in some ways, whilst it highlighted male mental health issues, it in some ways trivialised them, by just making it part of a ‘plot’. Tom, the main protagonist is suicidal, but just happens to meet all the right people to put him back on track. I found this far fetched, as we all know many suffer depression alone. He also refused to take medication, as he doesn’t believe he’s depressed, and his best friend agrees with him, possibly a dangerous message in some ways. Even the fact that he very quickly into the story starts to discuss his issues with others seems unlikely, and feels used to pull the narrative together. A lot of the plot just felt too ‘convenient’, and just a vehicle to reach the outcomes. I’d be interested to get a male view on whether Tom’s use of his relationships feels realistic, in terms of both the build up to his suicide decision, particularly with his friend Harry, and his subsequent interactions both with family and the cafe community. His thoughts and emerging friendships seem quite ‘female’ in their development - I may be wrong!
Adam’s storyline was also intriguing but again, I didn’t feel there was enough. I wanted to know more, how did he feel about what was happening to him, how did his wife feel. Unfortunately these characters were too one dimensional for me to get a real feel for their story.
I also found the religious thread unnecessary, and wasn’t sure how it fitted. It just felt like the author wanted to include an element of faith, but for me this didn’t sit well alongside the psychology of the book.
I had an idea as to where the ending might go, but it still came as a shock, leaving me feeling like I’d read a thriller. I was quite pleased that all the ends weren’t tied up as neatly as it felt the author was attempting throughout the book.
Overall, a good read, but I finished not quite knowing what the authors intention was, what the message is, and a bit disappointed that some really good ideas didn’t quite translate into the ‘meatiness’ I had expected from a book examining male mental health.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2019
This is a highly original book and I loved it. I managed to wrangle an ARC and did not want to put it down once I had started reading it. The story is mainly told from Toms point of view - and it is fascinating to hear what is going on inside how head, how he deals with the various challenges life throws at him and the (frankly bonkers) choices that he makes. I found myself shouting at him in my head as I read the book: why would you do that, no - don't do that, what would you say that for, just tell the truth - it’ll be OK.
It is fascinating to watch someone’s life unravel - from one simple lie to a whole web that he can’t escape from. Tom’s way of fixing the problem is revealed so cleverly that, along with his wife, we are also left in the dark as to what exactly he has done. However, it has so many light touches and the varied cast of characters are portrayed sensitively, with humour and in a way that makes them feel like they could be your husband / mum / aunt / sister / therapist!
I would throughly recommend the book to anyone who likes to imagine what is going on inside others peoples minds - Jo Johnson manages to give a unique insight into a place i have never been before.
It is fascinating to watch someone’s life unravel - from one simple lie to a whole web that he can’t escape from. Tom’s way of fixing the problem is revealed so cleverly that, along with his wife, we are also left in the dark as to what exactly he has done. However, it has so many light touches and the varied cast of characters are portrayed sensitively, with humour and in a way that makes them feel like they could be your husband / mum / aunt / sister / therapist!
I would throughly recommend the book to anyone who likes to imagine what is going on inside others peoples minds - Jo Johnson manages to give a unique insight into a place i have never been before.
October 1, 2019
I am not usually one for biographical fiction but the characterisation and authenticity of the main character had me drawn in from the first few pages, and as the book unfolds the level of depth embedded in the other characters does not disappoint. Written by a Clinical Psychologist the author is able to draw the reader into the thoughts and mindset of the characters in a refreshingly different way to any other book I have read. Anyone who has experienced emotional distress is likely to find a great affinity with the characters, maybe even a little distressed by the resonance of their own experiences with the main character, but ultimately I think comforted by the parallels they are sure to notice. I found this book heart-breaking and uplifting in equal measure. The title and prologue give just enough of a hint as to the direction of the story to create suspense without predictability and, as with all the best books, it has a deliciously subtle twist at the end!
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced review copy by Unbound Publishers in return for an honest review.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced review copy by Unbound Publishers in return for an honest review.
August 17, 2019
I finished reading 'Surviving Me' in just three sittings since I became so involved in the lives of the protagonist, his wife and her brother that I was avoiding house-work and other more mundane chores. Jo Johnson is a trained psychologist which explains her remarkable insight into the way that a middle-aged man like Tom would react to the difficult life-events he is faced with. I don't want to give too much away about the plot since other potential readers should find out for themselves by also reading this novel. Although this narrative explores some very difficult and challenging times for not only Tom but also other characters, it is also humorous at times and very readable. I was completely unprepared for the ending. Thank you to Unbound Publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
November 2, 2019My copy arrived yesterday lunchtime and I finished it this evening - after deciding that I really should sleep between reading sessions!! I found it a very easy read, the characters were all very believable and I could relate to many of the things that they were involved in. It was very well written and easy to pick up the different characters, and see how they fitted with each other - or not - as was the case much of the time. Our lives don't always run smoothly, as was obvious here, but Jo weaved the story around her characters in a very natural way. Thanks Jo.
October 7, 2019
Thank you to Unbound Publishers for the advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review.
One the one hand, I completely found myself gripped with the story and wanting to find out what was about to happen. I think it sensitively addresses many topics and themes prevalent to men’s mental health which I truly believe are important messages.
The only bit that I wasn’t overly keen on was that it seemed a bit too coincidental and far-fetched I.e meeting characters that would then be in some way the solution to all his problems. Overall, a good, easy read.
One the one hand, I completely found myself gripped with the story and wanting to find out what was about to happen. I think it sensitively addresses many topics and themes prevalent to men’s mental health which I truly believe are important messages.
The only bit that I wasn’t overly keen on was that it seemed a bit too coincidental and far-fetched I.e meeting characters that would then be in some way the solution to all his problems. Overall, a good, easy read.
September 19, 2019
I highly recommend this book as a must read.
I am a reader that can finish a book by the first chapter if it’s not captured my attention. Surviving Me gripped me from start to finish. I laughed, I cried and didn’t want it to end.
Incredibly written to suit every reader as I think we will all be able to relate to this book one way or another.
Hopefully a best seller in the making!
Rebecca Merricks
I am a reader that can finish a book by the first chapter if it’s not captured my attention. Surviving Me gripped me from start to finish. I laughed, I cried and didn’t want it to end.
Incredibly written to suit every reader as I think we will all be able to relate to this book one way or another.
Hopefully a best seller in the making!
Rebecca Merricks
October 17, 2019
I was lucky enough to be given an advance copy in return for an honest review. I am a fellow psychologist with experience of working with men with mental and physical health issues.
This book appealed to me because it looks closely at a man's relationship with their mental health.
It's an emotional roller-coaster which I encourage you to ride.
Thank you for allowing me a sneak peak at your brilliant book.
This book appealed to me because it looks closely at a man's relationship with their mental health.
It's an emotional roller-coaster which I encourage you to ride.
Thank you for allowing me a sneak peak at your brilliant book.
March 16, 2020
I was kindly gifted a copy for the purpose of review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you are looking for a poignant read, then this is the book for you. With the book beginning with Tom, the main character, going missing, you become completely involved in his life as we follow his story up until that point when the police arrive at his wife’s work to tell her he has gone missing. You really feel for him, following his struggles as he learns to deal with the knocks life is giving him.
A sub plot is the situation with Tom’s brother in law, Adam. As the story goes on, you are aware of the changes in Adam’s personality and even his physicality. Tom picks up on it very early on but it takes the other characters a lot longer to realise what is going on. With Tom not wanting to live and Adam desperately trying to, this is often a heartbreaking read in places but also very heartwarming when you consider the mix of characters from the cafe Tom frequents. All seem to provide something different that Tom needs and it is little wonder that Tom seeks solace there.
I really felt for both Tom and Adam – both were going through their own silent struggles and didn’t feel able to speak to their wives about it. I took a while to warm to Tom’s wife/Adam’s sister Siri as she seemed very cold at times, much like her sister in law Heather that everyone seemed to dislike. I really liked the character of Harry, Tom’s best friend, as he was always a confidant for Tom, always willing to lend an ear and was the epitome of a true friend.
This was a really emotional read which tackles many hard hitting and real issues such as depression, suicidal thoughts, unwanted pregnancy, infertility and genetic diseases. It was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish and I definitely want to read more from the author.
If you are looking for a poignant read, then this is the book for you. With the book beginning with Tom, the main character, going missing, you become completely involved in his life as we follow his story up until that point when the police arrive at his wife’s work to tell her he has gone missing. You really feel for him, following his struggles as he learns to deal with the knocks life is giving him.
A sub plot is the situation with Tom’s brother in law, Adam. As the story goes on, you are aware of the changes in Adam’s personality and even his physicality. Tom picks up on it very early on but it takes the other characters a lot longer to realise what is going on. With Tom not wanting to live and Adam desperately trying to, this is often a heartbreaking read in places but also very heartwarming when you consider the mix of characters from the cafe Tom frequents. All seem to provide something different that Tom needs and it is little wonder that Tom seeks solace there.
I really felt for both Tom and Adam – both were going through their own silent struggles and didn’t feel able to speak to their wives about it. I took a while to warm to Tom’s wife/Adam’s sister Siri as she seemed very cold at times, much like her sister in law Heather that everyone seemed to dislike. I really liked the character of Harry, Tom’s best friend, as he was always a confidant for Tom, always willing to lend an ear and was the epitome of a true friend.
This was a really emotional read which tackles many hard hitting and real issues such as depression, suicidal thoughts, unwanted pregnancy, infertility and genetic diseases. It was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish and I definitely want to read more from the author.
March 31, 2020
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources, and Unbound Digital for this free copy. All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
I think one of the coolest things about this one was that this had the point of view of two men rather than all of the women lead books that I’ve been reading lately. And seriously, I’m all for women lead books. I love female protagonists a lot more than male protagonists anyway, that’s what I seem to gravitate towards anyway, but I thought it was cool that I got to switch it up a little bit this time around.
I was about to say “I think” again oops.
It was really heartbreaking to hear the male side of depression, as I feel like sometimes people forget that anyone could suffer from depression, not just women. It get to the point where one of our MCs Tom has some suicidal thoughts, and his reasons for wanting to end his life made sense from his point of view. I don’t know how I would have been able to handle what he went through, especially not being male myself. I understand that there is a difference in feeling less like a man for legitimate reasons, and to be subject to toxic masculinity, and there was a part of me that felt like there was a line that was blurred between those two points. Whether or not Tom and Adam realized they were crossing it, I don’t know if they knew.
I think one of the coolest things about this one was that this had the point of view of two men rather than all of the women lead books that I’ve been reading lately. And seriously, I’m all for women lead books. I love female protagonists a lot more than male protagonists anyway, that’s what I seem to gravitate towards anyway, but I thought it was cool that I got to switch it up a little bit this time around.
I was about to say “I think” again oops.
It was really heartbreaking to hear the male side of depression, as I feel like sometimes people forget that anyone could suffer from depression, not just women. It get to the point where one of our MCs Tom has some suicidal thoughts, and his reasons for wanting to end his life made sense from his point of view. I don’t know how I would have been able to handle what he went through, especially not being male myself. I understand that there is a difference in feeling less like a man for legitimate reasons, and to be subject to toxic masculinity, and there was a part of me that felt like there was a line that was blurred between those two points. Whether or not Tom and Adam realized they were crossing it, I don’t know if they knew.
March 20, 2020
I could not put this book down! Filled with likeable and engaging characters, the trials they each faced well and truly tugged at my heart strings. This book tackles a plethora of tough subjects; from infertility to serious illnesses, marital problems to mental health. It was a good change to see a work of fiction like this written from a mans perspective - Mental health overall is being spoken about more, but mens mental health can still be such a taboo subject. This story does a fantastic job of highlighting the struggles men can face in their daily lives.
My heart broke for Tom, everything in his life just seemed to be falling apart around him. I'm all too familiar with the pit of despair he found himself in, and the way it was written portrayed it perfectly. Just waiting for the one bit of good news, that one good day, to help turn it around, when in reality the darkness has already crept in.
The ending left me with my jaw on the floor - I did not see it coming at all! It definitely leaves room for a sequel if Jo ever feels like revisiting these characters. And if she does, I'll be first in line to buy it!
March 23, 2020
Originally published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2020/03/2...
I get so excited to review a great book so I can share it with the world but, with that excitement, comes a lot of stress. See, I know I will never be able to give Surviving Me the justice it deserves. I’ll try anyway.
There are many different themes at play in this book: low self-esteem, depression, long-term illnesses. These topics can be hard to handle, especially if you can see elements of your own life in the characters. However, these topics bring something important to the world: discussion on the pressures men face.
It was different for me to have a male narrator and, at first, I didn’t really like Tom. In the first few chapters he came across as a stuck-up salesman who concentrates too much on other people’s appearance. Then the author peels back the layers and we see a man who is struggling, and struggling alone as he tries to keep up the masculine, hard-man, provider persona the world expects of him. It pains me the number of men who fall as low as Tom, and worse, because of these expectations.
Still, Surviving Me is not all doom and gloom. There really is light at the end of the tunnel. I’m not going to tell you about Tom’s light, but his journey does produce two solid pieces of advice: everything happens for a reason and you are not your job.
I couldn’t put Surviving Me down. It gave me all the feels. I really hope there is a sequel and that Jo Johnson continues to write books that bring such an important topic to the forefront.
I get so excited to review a great book so I can share it with the world but, with that excitement, comes a lot of stress. See, I know I will never be able to give Surviving Me the justice it deserves. I’ll try anyway.
There are many different themes at play in this book: low self-esteem, depression, long-term illnesses. These topics can be hard to handle, especially if you can see elements of your own life in the characters. However, these topics bring something important to the world: discussion on the pressures men face.
It was different for me to have a male narrator and, at first, I didn’t really like Tom. In the first few chapters he came across as a stuck-up salesman who concentrates too much on other people’s appearance. Then the author peels back the layers and we see a man who is struggling, and struggling alone as he tries to keep up the masculine, hard-man, provider persona the world expects of him. It pains me the number of men who fall as low as Tom, and worse, because of these expectations.
Still, Surviving Me is not all doom and gloom. There really is light at the end of the tunnel. I’m not going to tell you about Tom’s light, but his journey does produce two solid pieces of advice: everything happens for a reason and you are not your job.
I couldn’t put Surviving Me down. It gave me all the feels. I really hope there is a sequel and that Jo Johnson continues to write books that bring such an important topic to the forefront.
March 13, 2023
A nicely thought out and well written book. It was a nice change reading something relating to mental health that wasn't overly clinical but still informative.
As someone with mental health problems myself, I often find people who don't have any, play them down or judge people with them very harshly. Obviously it's hard to understand something you don't have but empathy goes a long way with any illness.
Men, in particular, are often told things like "man up" or that it somehow makes them less of a man to have any kind of mental illness, let alone be open about it.
The story itself was interesting and I found myself quite invested with the characters. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
As someone with mental health problems myself, I often find people who don't have any, play them down or judge people with them very harshly. Obviously it's hard to understand something you don't have but empathy goes a long way with any illness.
Men, in particular, are often told things like "man up" or that it somehow makes them less of a man to have any kind of mental illness, let alone be open about it.
The story itself was interesting and I found myself quite invested with the characters. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
November 14, 2019
Many thanks to Unbound and Netgalley for this book. What an unexpectedly wonderful, moving, uplifting, heartwarming and generally fantastic read. I had no real idea of what to expect but absolutely loved everything about this book - the profound, wide-ranging and thought-provoking subject matter (depression, redundancy, fertility issues, unplanned pregnancy, attempted suicide, chronic / inherited diseases to name just a few), the characters who I felt represented the whole spectrum of humanity, and the writing which was just beautiful. Jo Johnson is a brilliant writer and I will be recommending this book to everyone including my book group!
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