STILL is the conclusion of Grip & Bristol’s emotional journey. You must read FLOW, the prequel, and GRIP, book 1 before beginning STILL “Take everything you’ve ever thought about follow-up books and discard it. Even deeper than what came before, STILL is a love letter to soul-deep commitment. I adored Flow and Grip, but Kennedy took it to a whole new level with STILL. Prepare to be blown … adored Flow and Grip, but Kennedy took it to a whole new level with STILL. Prepare to be blown away.” – Ella Fox, USA Today Bestselling Author
I’ll be there.
Through thick and thin.
Ride or die.
You can count on me.
The promises people make.
The vows we take.
Assumptions of the heart.
Emotion tells us how we feel, but life…life has a way of plunging us in boiling water, burning away our illusions, testing our faith, trying our convictions.
Love floating is a butterfly, but love tested is an anchor.
For Grip and Bristol,
Love started at the top of the world
On a Ferris wheel under the stars
But when that love is tested, will they fly or fall?
more
Yes I spent my New Years’s eve and Early morning reading this book. It captured me and would not let go. Still has so much emotion. If I had read the description I would have to say it would probably not have been something I would pick. But because of the two previous books in this series. Flow and Grip. I had to read it. And once I got started I could not stop. Hence my book hangover today, but what a way to start the year. Kennedy Ryan has flown to the top of authors I want to read. I will be reading more.
It’s been a few days since I’ve finished Still, it was hard to write a review of such an amazing book..
i’m not sure i can put all my feelings here without giving too much away or giving any spoilers but i’m going to try…
The story of Grip and Bristol continues and this time we get to see so much more about their struggles and beautiful moments..
Grip, has been working hard to work on a mission that’s very close to his heart.. he has an opportunity now to make this dream come true, to spread the word and help others.. The opportunity to get closer and make his project real, is finally here, he is ready to move to another city to accomplish all this.. now is just a matter of time to see what’s about to unfold..
“I aspire to be many things,” she finally says, “but there is nothing I will ever do that will make me prouder than being your wife.”
Bristols career is going great, with so many new artist and contracts under her wing, she decides to follow Grip on his moving plans.. life is about to change for both of them.. so many new challenges and new things to fight for.. but their love is stronger than ever and nothing can break them apart..
“When things are out of control, he’s always my peace, always my sigh of relief. He’s the reminder that come what may, there’s us, and we aren’t going anywhere—ever.”
Grip has become one of my favorite heroes of all times.. I’ve never read a character or even met a man like him.. he is so in love with Bristol.. in a way that you can even feel it.. and that’s the beauty of Kennedys words.. When you read her words you actually feel so much of what Grips is going through, or what Bristol is felling.. i could feel the powerful connection between them.. the angst, the worry. Everything they went through was very well felt through Kennedys writing..
Grip love, is humble, and pure, he didn’t have any problem to say sorry, to be the first one to apologize, he was just a true gentleman.. always putting Bristol first no matter what. For Grip their love was first.. and i believe that is the key or that was the key for them.. their love was more important than anything, than any career or thing.. and their love is what binds them and makes them survive any harshness life throws at them..
“when I was at my lowest and thought all was lost, he found me in hell and brought me home.”
In Still, Grip and Bristol go through so many sensitive but powerful experiences that will leave you, with many things to think about and reflect.. but the most important message i got from Still was…..
“I want a love with no walls. This world uses whatever it can—race, politics, religion—to divide us. We can have differences, but promise me they won’t be walls that divide us.”
Love conquers ALL in every single aspect of our lives and Grip and Bristol show us that no matter what, love is the key to every adversity and locked up heart..
“If I only get one life with you,” I mutter into his neck, “then, yes, I’m holding on to every moment and every word you say.”
No matter if everything was collapsing all around, no matter if they felt like the world had no room for their relationship.. love kept them together, love was their safe place … love was the only language they understood.. No matter what life threw at them, with their love, they will be always ready to fight.. Their love was put to at test for years but Still love kept bring them closer together..
“Great love must be tested.”
“the only thing I can promise you is that I will love you for the rest of my life, and I truly believe we can survive anything together. Do you believe that?”
There are so many great secondary characters in Still, we get to see Rhyson and Kai, Qwest, Jade, Marlon’s Mom. Mrs. O’Malley that i luv!! i need that recipe for her collards!! lol and so many others that we met on Grip..
“thank you for raising such a magnificent man. He is the man of my dreams. When I thought of my husband, I didn’t dream in color, I dreamt in character.”
I really recommend Still, it is an amazing book with a huge message and a tons of love to give and spread around…
so in love with Kennedy’s writing.. looking forward to read more of her books..
I have read many, many romance novels over the years and there are few that take my breath away and my emotions to such an intense level that the story stays with me, the characters become so real that they don’t leave me. STILL is one of those stories. I met Grip and Bristol in FLOW, the prequel, and fell in complete and utter love with them in GRIP. I experienced the issues of race faced by this couple and watched as their love developed into something deep, something immeasurable. I thought their story was complete, thought I knew everything I needed to know, they had their happy-ever-after, but I was so very wrong. Flow was a dusting, Grip delved in, explored the issues of race further and gave us an incredible love story. And then Kennedy Ryan wrote STILL. And, oh my goodness this book. I needed this book, we all needed this book and we didn’t even know it. STILL rummages deep in the foundation of the bond shared between Grip and Bristol. Tests their love, shows us their struggles, their incredible relationship and each and every raw layer that life throws their way. We thought their story was done with GRIP, but seriously it wasn’t. STILL is the story we needed about them and didn’t even know.
The ethos of the narrative is deeply thought provoking. Ryan once again offers a candid telling treating readers to a story full of heart and the thoughtful exploration of issues that I needed and wanted to know more about, in a sensitive and measured manner. This author showed me perspectives that I had not considered, perspectives that I did not really appreciate until this series and for that I am so very grateful. I think readers will feel the thought provoking quality as Kennedy Ryan is impressively eloquent at expressing all points of view fairly and thoughtfully in a prose that is richly crafted giving this story a canvas littered with beautiful descriptions and imagery that takes this story to a higher level of magnificence demonstrating the talent of this author.
Nothing can prepare readers for the emotional fallout from this story it held my heart in the palm of its pages. I lost count of the number of times various characters and situations deeply touched my heart. Characters who totally enhance the texture of the storytelling creating additional layers and thought, enhancing the rich feel of Grip and Bristol’s world. I thought I knew where Kennedy Ryan would take me, I highly anticipated and looked forward to the exploration of certain themes but I never could have predicted where the author would take me on emotional level with STILL or what exactly would happen to this beloved couple until pivotal moments organically unfolded in the narrative. My heart burst with love and then broke into a million pieces. I sobbed. I was a complete mess. The book hurt so very, very good and had a healing power of the most exquisite nature. I basked in the sheer evocative essence of the storytelling. The narrative and characters sculpted to affect my sensibilities in such a majestic manner. This couple will remain forever in my book heart, their story cemented in my mind. They touched me deeply.
Grip and Bristol are perfection. Their strength and integrity shine through the prose and the growth of their relationship is incredible. I could wax lyrical about them as both individuals and as a couple but my small review will turn into a thesis. The essence of their story is awe-inspiring. Deep. Sexy. Thought provoking. Gut wrenching. A forever-favourite multifaceted contemporary romance that transcends the boundaries of romance stories, goes further than the exploration of important issues. This book is everything. Don’t seek out what STILL is about, don’t worry about the tears people are shedding. This is a story that should be uncovered as the reader turns each page. I basked in the richness of this love story, I relished every second of the emotional ride and hope romance readers everywhere chose to grab this story and immerse themselves in a fictional world full of love, hope and inspiration.
Advance copy provided / reviewed voluntarily
Kennedy Ryan has once again wrecked me with her masterful writing. Her words have a way of resonating with me in a way that a way that only a few other authors ever have. Her stories are beyond moving and her characters are stunning. Grip and Bristol have stolen my heart while redefining the idea of all-consuming love.
Everyone needs to read the Grip series. Not just for the romance, but for the flawless way Kennedy combines an epic romance with significant and controversial social issues that plague us. This story is an important one and I hope to see more and more people reading it. Grip and Bristol need to become names that are as prevalent in the world as Romeo and Juliet. Their love made me swoon, their pain made me cry, their strength made me cheer, and the issues they faced made me think.
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
ALWAYS, EVERMORE, EVEN AFTER, STILL…
You know how there are books you can never forget, and after reading them, you know you will never be the same??? The whole Grip Series is like that…but STILL has to be my favorite book of the series…
STILL GAVE ME EVERY FEEL, and it has an important theme and message that can’t be ignored…but I laughed so hard, (The scene where they are shopping for a temporary New York apartment is worth the price of the book)….and I cried big, ugly, snot-nosed tears (I don’t want to know anyone who can get through The Grip Series, and especially, STILL, without shedding tears) and I LOVED every minute of it…..STILL has so much heart and soul……And, I am, completely, in love with Grip and Bristol….Ms. Ryan has made their chemistry, their love so strong, so hot, so intense, it’s palpable, and, well, Grip is just plain HOT!!
I’m sad this series is over….I could probably read 10 books about this couple… Kennedy Ryan continues to leave me speechless….Her words are moving and intelligent and inspiring and educational and powerful….and SO worth reading…. STILL is just more proof as to how much talent this author has and 5 stars will just never be enough….
I’m writing this review not just for this book, but for the entire Grip series. To be honest, I was quite happy with the way Grip ended. But then Still completely stole my heart! Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better than Grip, Kennedy Ryan delivered another epic story in Still.
Flow is how everything started with Bristol and Grip (Marlon). Their brief one-week encounter set a strong foundation for their relationship, when they both realized the other one would be their only soulmate. Their connection was off the chart, they challenged each other, exposed themselves to the other with both their strengths and their vulnerabilities. In a way, they already knew they were a perfect match. But then circumstances happened and they went on separate ways.
Grip was about the second chance and slow burn. Their connection has always been the same years later after their initial encounter. But Bristol has always been trying to resist this string that always seemed to pull them closer to each other. I love Bristol for her intelligence, her strength, her independence, her vulnerability, and most of all her tender loving heart. She has always trying so hard to stitch back her broken family and to sacrifice everything for the ones she loved. Underneath the confident stride and poised attitude lies a soft heart, and even though she always knew Grip was the one for her, she kept a distance from Grip to protect it. Then we have Grip… I’m pretty sure he’s one of my most favorite heroes EVER! He’s persistent, caring, loyal, smart, and all the wonderful things you can imagine in a man! I was happy to see them overcome their fear and surrender to their hearts to be together. And indeed, it was quite a happy ending.
I knew I just couldn’t get enough of Grip and Bristol so I was really happy to continue their journey in Still. And it was totally unexpected, in a fantastic way! This book focused more on their journey together, how they stood strong against society’s stigma of race, and how they overcame heartbreaks and obstacles in life to cement their love forever. I don’t think I’ve ever cried or been wrecked so much reading this wonderful book. It was highly emotional with lots of feels and beautiful moments.
One of the things I love most about this series is the poems. Kennedy Ryan’s poems are so beautifully written with powerful messages that can steal your heart and stay with you forever. Just keep reading Still after Grip and you will not regret it. Kennedy is a wonderful writer, one of my most favorite authors, and a beautiful soul. All her books are well thought out, nicely flowed, and carefully crafted. I highly recommend all of them. You can’t go wrong with Kennedy Ryan!
Just when I thought life might settle down a little bit for Grip and Bristol, Kennedy made sure I realised that while this is fiction, it’s still realistic fiction!
Heartfelt all through, this story broke my heart into tiny little slivers, and I’m not even sure what to write here. I loved that even when life was so hard it felt impossible, Grip and Bristol somehow found their way – but it sure wasn’t easy.
They still had to fight people about the fact that their relationship was mixed – and they both caught just as much grief for that, both of them heard things that nobody should hear about who they love.
I felt like both Bristol and Grip continued to grow, and they were always open to listen to each other when the hard truths needed to be shared.
The writing is so beautiful I know I’m going to read this again.
Also, I really enjoyed the fact that Kennedy let Bristol ask the questions that can be so difficult to ask. I want to understand better – I do realise my white privilege, but I may not be doing enough to make it easier for those who do not have that. And sometimes, it’s not easy to ask the hard questions – for fear of saying things in such a clumsy way that they may offend. Or that my ignorance is even bigger than I think it is (but at least my questions, and me expanding my horizons in all the ways I know how help me being a little less ignorant). And I hope that I can make some of the differences in society smaller. Through little, daily actions and affirmations. And for speaking up when necessary.
That I could get all this from a series in my favorite genre astounds me! Don’t get me wrong – in a lot of my romance novels, I walk away feeling like I’ve learned something. But with this series, I have been schooled. And I want that to continue!
Kennedy’s writing is beautiful, and she manages to bring a lot of important questions and differences to the front of the story without ever making me feel so uncomfortable I don’t want to continue. She made me think a lot, and that is awesome. On top of that, I got one of the most beautiful love stories I have ever read, so she really does deserve ALL the stars for this series.
How do you describe a masterpiece? “Still” was everything and more. Grip and Bristol are still in my head and heart; I didn’t want to move on to another book because I needed to linger with them for awhile. Their love for each other and their honest expression of how they feel is astonishing. Within this book are two people with flaws that they should want to hide, but they are willing to be transparent with each other about everything. Throughout the situations and circumstances that they live through, and yes, I mean live through, because most of what they experience would break some couples, one thing they realize is that they chose each other and they are willing to fight for each other and their relationship.
It wasn’t easy, especially having to deal with people who are against others because of the color of their skin. Ryan wrote a thought provoking story. A story that lets you know sometimes in life everything is not black and white; there are shades and shadows of gray. There are times when life makes the choices for you and it may hurt, but we must decide to keep living and loving. There is a poem in the book that has become my favorite. It sums up the love that Grip has for Bristol. This couple has become one of my favorite fictional couples. I’m urging my fellow readers to please read this series; start will Flow, then read Grip and Still. I want to cry; I miss this couple. Can someone please make this into a PassionFlix or Netflix movie?
This book gutted me.
I was happy, angry, and gut-wrenchingly wrecked while reading. This story needed to be told. The writing is superb and unflinchingly honest.
When you talk about the greatest couples in literature, Grip and Bristol will be in the conversation. That’s how much their story will affect everyone who reads it.
Starting off shortly where Grip left off, Still takes us through what life is like as an interracial couple in today’s world. The belief that who you love doesn’t have to fit into some pre-determined box society has put you in. How social media can be used as a weapon by spreading dangerous philosophies that incite hate. There are other social issues addressed in this book, that make you think, and hopefully open your eyes and hearts to plights that may have otherwise been ignored.
This story also shows how two people, who love and trust each other implicitly, can survive anything and come out stronger on the other side.
Standing ovation for author Kennedy Ryan. This series is a must read.
Don’t you love it when a book takes you through hell and back, and then gives you that healing balm at the end. That is what Kennedy Ryan did to me with this series. I don’t feel I have the adequate words to write a proper review. This truly was beyond anything I’ve read before. Kennedy is some kind of writer, let me tell you. Just the flow and vibe that she puts forth has me hooked forever. Glad to have another unicorn Author. I so appreciate being able to read an interracial romance with a man of color, and a Caucasian woman. I believe it’s the first I’ve read like that, and I’m so glad Kennedy is the one to set the bar. It was like I was truly inside Grip’s mind, and was able to really feel and see things from his perspective. I will never be the same after this series. Bravo Kennedy, bravo.
Always. Evermore. Even after. Still.
A beautifully written ending to an unbelievably amazing story of boundless and deep love that transcended time and backgrounds. Realistic and relevant, written in dual points of view that give an honest account of life’s highs and lows. Kennedy Ryan’s way with words is masterful! True genius! I highly recommend this series! Flow-Grip-Still
An amazing book I didn’t want it to it end. I love the characters. Have re/read twice. I love the author
Awe-Inspiring and Unforgettable
This is one of the best books I’ve ever read. It’s beyond beautiful. The characters are soo unbelievably amazing. This series has a power couple! I cannot think of another book that has that (not like Bristol & Grip).
In my review of GRIP I said I couldn’t possibly love Grip(Marlone) more..I was proven wrong. My heart grew to make room forMORElove for Grip & Bristol. I love them both!! #relationshipgoals
This story was Real as real can be. With life challenges, decisions and choices. With a LOVE that is sublime, profound, unyielding and boundless. So many different topics that our society must deal with and unfortunately at times go undealt with left behind as if ignored they can go away. The author has done an amazing job presenting these topics and not once did I feel I was being told to feel a certain way. Both pov’s regarding the issues were presented. It was not one sided.
Many many words that reached my heart and will stay forever.
I’m trying to explain how much this story has touched me and left me in awe but I feel I’m failing at that.
Everyone should read this series.
There are many characters I loved but I instantly loved Mrs. O’Malley! Mrs. James #mothergoals
More STARS needed for this story!!
I love this book (and this series) and I hope I translated that.
There were heavy feelings but there were also Fun Happy Laugh-out-Loud moments
5 STILL stars! A book which emphasizes the importance of LOVE, HOPE and FATE. One of the best series I have read.
I am left all emotional and it is hard for me to express how much I love Bristol and Grip’ story. These characters have stolen a piece of my soul. Their story went directly to my heart. All the difficulties they went through made them strongest. Love like their is quite difficult to find but not impossible.
The topics Kennedy Ryan touched in this series are so sensitive and we must not be insensitive of them. Racism is a problem well identified in our society and it is a shame that only few people are against it. We shall understand that we are all equal. We are human beings and the colour of our skin shouldn’t define our worth. We are free to love whoever we want.
God made us in different shapes and colours. To God it doesn’t matter our skin colour. It matter our soul and heart.
Still is one of those books that mark your soul in a good way. The plot is original and very real. Kennedy Ryan put her heart in this book. I can feel it. She is an amazing lady. This series inspired me to be a better person. It helped me to understand the problems our society have against interracial relationships. We shall not care of what they say. We shall care of what we feel. Love never destroys, it always creates.
I find myself very identified with Bristol. She is a strong woman, a fighter and a protector. She has settled her priorities. She is dedicated to her career and to her man. She has a kind soul and she loves deeply. Bristol has blossomed like an English rose. Her love for Grip is pure and strong. Grip is her rock, her anchor, her soulmate, her equal.
“What I feel for you is not optional, Grip . It’s a mandate, a demand I have no problem meeting. I have to be wherever you are.”
Grip ruin my expectations about a men. He puts really high standards on what I want in a man. He is a dream every woman would want. He is a hardworking man. His love is as deep as Bristol’s. He is not only a rap star and a pretty face (and body). He is very clever. So conscious of what his people suffered. A man who is working hard to help those who suffered any kind of racism. Grip is a fighter and a good man. He is so in love with Bristol. He cares and cherishes her in a way every man should do. He is so protective of her. But sometimes he must learn that Bristol is not a damsel in danger. She is also a fighter like him.
“I’m your home, Bristol.”
I love the evolution of Bristol and Grip’ relationship. It was like it was written in the stars. Love and faith made them strongest. They fought together against people who thought the worst about their relationship. They love each hardest. Soulmates who find home in each other’s arms. A perfect fit made in heaven and blessed in hope.
“For once, I’m in the same boat. Words are my business, but the feeling taking over every part of me leaves me speechless.”
Words are not enough to say how much I love this book. Still thought me that in the hardest moments you always find light, that love does not chose race or skin colour, that we are free to take any decision concerned to our body, that we can’t condemn a human being. This book is a jewel.
Kennedy delivered one of the most emotional and social concerned books of the year. It showed us that with words we can change the world. The topics behind Bristol and Grip’ story shall not be forgotten. We can change the world with small actions. Let’s respect each other. Let’s make this world a better place for our children. Kennedy inspire real good things in me. I do not want to say goodbye to Bristol and Grip. I need more. There are not enough stars to rate this book. Still change my life. Thank you Kennedy for gifting us the best series.
Still is the conclusion to Grip and Bristol’s story, you must read Flow & Grip before starting this novel. Kennedy Ryan’s writing again is brilliant, she covers topics that are really relevant in today’s society. An inter-racial couple and the racism they face, the problems in the justice and judicial systems, as well as problems a successful couple faces when they are in the spotlight and trying to make a difference in the world.
For me I found part 1 of the book (approx 60%) almost a rehash of Grip. Bristol and Grip are together and more comfortable in their relationship but the same issues are covered so it felt a little repetitive in that respect. Although we got to meet some new characters in Mrs O’Malley who is super sweet and did make me smile. Grip gets to study under his idol in New York, which also doesn’t play out quite as he expected. That being said Part 2 is where the book came alive for me, if the book was just this part of the story I would have rated it higher.
Part 2 of Still, was emotionally raw and fiercely real, Grip and Bristols relationship showed it’s strength and unity through challenges that are unexpected and heartbreaking. The events they go through are their very own bittersweet symphony and I could not put it down once I began this section of their story.
I have to applaud Kennedy for the way she wrote the novel, she tells the story from both Hero and heroines POV, showing the differing perspectives; but that they are each others constant and because of that they can survive anything! I believe this series is one with a powerful message and a resounding strength, I am glad I finally read Grip & Bristols story.
It’s taken me four days to write this review. I got my paperbacks of this series today, and teared up a little as I put them on my self because my love for the Grip series is so abundant. I was talking to Kennedy on Instagram and she told me that this book was a lot more emotional than Grip… and boy, she wasn’t lying!
Still took me on a R I D E.
Still is a continuation of Bristol and Grip’s story, and they face the ultimate hardships and obstacles of their relationship so far. This book really tackles the topic of race and interracial relationships, and like I said in my review of Grip, I learned so much! Grip is SO passionate about the battle with systematic racism, police brutality, and racial inequality as a whole. As we know though, Bristol is a white woman, and Grip faces a lot of kickback from that. Bristol and Grip are constantly fighting for and defending their relationship, yet their commitment to each other NEVER waivered. Yes, it got hard, REALLY FREAKING HARD, but at the end of the day nothing could break them. The love that Bristol and Grip had for each other was stronger than anything the world threw at them.
At times, Still was really difficult to read. I personally listened to the audiobook, and Jakobi Diem and Maxine Mitchell made this book feel so real at times. It was like I could feel Bristol and Grip’s pain in my heart and soul. It’s so rare that a book makes me FEEL. It’s like there was rope tied around my heart and it was just squeezing the life out of me.
This is a must read series for any romance reader. Yes, it’s a journey, but it’s beautiful and it’s real. It’s raw. This is a series that needs to be read because not only is it sweet and spicy, but it offers unique perspective and teachings in a way that doesn’t feel like a lecture. I love this about Kennedy, and this is why she is my favorite author and why I can’t wait for my next read by her!
This series is the kind that leaves its mark on your heart. That changes you. Wow. There were so many emotions. Grip and Bristol have a truly enviable love. What I really love about Still is that it isn’t about falling in love. Grip and Bristol have already done that. Here we see what is takes to make a relationship last for the long haul, long after the newness wears away. The way they look out for each other and prioritize the relationship in the face of whatever comes their way is simply beautiful.
• •
: Still
: Grip 2
: Kennedy Ryan
: 4.5/5
The only thing that I disliked was that the story was pretty predictable at times and I would have loved to have seen more surprises (except that one surprise, that wasn’t my style, but hey I just skipped that). That said, this book was even more emotional than the others. I love the love between Bristol and Grip. They go through so many different struggles in this book and even though it was predictable it was not less painful. The writing was as good as it always is with Kennedy Ryan. She just writes beautifully and the words flow so well. I can’t say much more because I don’t want to spoil anything, but this book is definitely worth your time. I actually read all the books in a box set which has some amazing extras (I would recommend purchasing this version if you can). In the end I think everyone who loves some smut and a slow burn romance should read this book. Especially, because you can learn so much about racial inequality in this book and the series as a whole.
Most of my reviews are also available with photo at my Bookstagram: @justmyfantasyworld
Super emotional, at times, draining finale to Grip and Bristol’s story. Of course, given the first two books of the series, this book was highly focused on racial injustice and the prejudices that threaten their relationship. There were a lot of highs and a ton of lows with everything in between. I just loved their love so much – they really would do anything to protect the other and it showed in their words and actions. Great finale!
I still love Grip. I love the dynamic of everyone around Bristol and Grip.
Police. Race. Family drama. Culture. The outer layers of their love story are so important. Such raw topics that are dealt with in a beautiful way that it never takes away from their love story, but enhances it.
Always.
Evermore.
Even after.
Still.