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Angel Avenue

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A heart-warming tale of triumph over adversity…

Jules waits on a street corner every Saturday hoping something or someone will take the pain away. Nothing ever does.

She once loved the area she inhabits but a heartbreaking event marred its former meaning. She fell out of love and decided to focus on her career as an English teacher.

What she does not realise is that Warrick has been watching her and wants to know why she is always there, stood on that corner. She convinces herself it is the social worker in him that thinks he can save her from the loneliness and despair so evident about her person. Little does she know just what kind of life he has led.

When true love blossoms, neither of them appreciate just how their union is not only going to change their lives, but also shake up a problem at the very heart of their community.

A novel that will have you rooting for them, Sarah Lynch’s characters will make you think about all the things most of us take for granted.

319 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 17, 2013

39 people are currently reading
135 people want to read

About the author

Sarah Michelle Lynch

92 books228 followers
Some readers run at Sarah with hugs and kisses, while others shoot daggers at her for killing their favourite character off. Sarah can only apologise and say, "The story made me do it..."

Sarah Michelle Lynch is a former journalist who wrote a trilogy of science fiction novels while on maternity leave. In 2012 she took a deep breath and published the "Ravage Trilogy" which was later re-edited and became the UNITY novels. Sarah is lucky that some readers have been with her since the very beginning and have read all the different books she’s written.

It quickly became clear from reader response that Sarah has a flair for penning erotic scenes and so, Sarah took inspiration from real-life people around her and wrote "A Fine Profession", a compelling and compassionate read. At book signings readers often confess in a whisper that they’ve read this book – Sarah’s first erotic novel – and sometimes, readers have even admitted it’s their personal favourite.

Sarah loves nothing more than to put her feet up with a book and be consumed by a story, so in turn, she endeavours to give you all this and more.

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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Stevie Turner.
Author 54 books181 followers
January 11, 2014
Jules is the typical end product of an unloving childhood. She’s now grown, but cannot form relationships and does not think she deserves any love or happiness. Laurie tells her he loves her, but then he breaks her heart. She is always drawn back to the place where she and Laurie first met, but while waiting there for him to appear fate steps in and rewards her with Warrick, the love she has been waiting for all her life. With his love and help she is able to slay some ghosts from the past and lose her feelings of worthlessness.

However, Warrick has a few dark secrets, and Jules needs to find out what they are. He is loving but evasive: Where does he go at night? Why will he not tell her what he is up to?

All will be revealed in ‘Angel Avenue’, Sarah Michelle Lynch’s latest (and in my humble opinion her finest) novel. I enjoyed it immensely, and couldn’t wait to find out just what Warrick’s night-time activities consisted of.

The story flowed well, with good characterisation and dialogue. I would have liked to see maybe a final confrontation with Laurie while Jules was off on her travels, but I was glad the book ended in the way it did. Well done Sarah!

524 reviews3 followers
February 20, 2020
This book certainly packs a punch when it comes to emotion. It’s a very deep psychological story full of love,hate, betrayal and longing. I wasn’t keen on Jules in the beginning but loved Warrick from the off. They were both looking for something as they both had traumatic pasts. The more you read this book the more you begin to understand the characters and the dialogue between them was amazing .....Funny, hurtful, loving conversations which had a deep impact on both of them. In the end I loved them both....
The story is set in an area of Hull which I know very well which made me enjoy it more as I could relate to the places they we in. It’s such a change to read about about normal everyday characters and it could easily be factual rather than fiction. A really amazing story!!
Profile Image for Y. Correa.
Author 32 books67 followers
February 18, 2014
I'm going to make my review for this story short and sweet--at least for me.

This was an amazing story. It is about having the strength to love against all odds.

In this story we find a women scorned, hurt, trampled on by life, bitter and introverted, and still she moves forward. A man by the name of Laurie hurt her deeply, only because she thought that his sentiments towards her were true, and she was hopeful that she would find love in him, what with all of the heart break she had endured in her past.
As odd as it may sound, Jules was constantly on the prowl for a male suitor to bring to her home at night for nothing more and nothing less than a hug. A man to hold her as she slept. Each and every man that she found that way had let her down. Including the hunky man from the very beginning of the story. As the matter of fact, for a split second, I thought that he was the hero--I was wrong.
Then one day, a man by the name of Warrick literally walks right into her life, and from that moment on her life changes completely. As does his. Warrick is kind, loving, affectionate, interested in who she is as a person--although his attraction does not end there--he is strong and understanding. Everything and anything a woman could want in a man. But Warrick too has his hidden secrets.

There were times when I wanted to throw a shoe at Jules for being so hard headed, as well as kiss Rick for being so patient. There were a few times where I found a bit of the information unnecessary but it did not deter from my enjoyment.
Written in first person, present tense, this story has been well put together, with very, very minimal typos. Barely noticeable.

If you are looking for action, this is not the story for you.
If you're looking for a simple story line, this is not the book for you.
If you're looking for intrigue and suspense, this is not the book for you.
But if you're looking for a story of how true love can overcome anything, including hardships, trails and even time, THIS is the story you want to read. BUT you have to read it all the way to the end. Epilogue included.

I recommend this book and commend the author in the well executed story.
Profile Image for Queen Spades.
Author 41 books55 followers
January 31, 2014
Extended Review coming very soon on The Review Board.

When I read the beginning lines, it seemed the stage was set up for a working girl on the prowl, yet the interesting twist at the very beginning made me stick around. The emotional development of the two main characters, Jules and Warrick, was beyond great. It was expertly placed, pleasingly methodical. Both characters had their sets of challenges, and the author goes above and beyond to paint out the progress as they both go beyond the pain in order to achieve happiness.

These characters were universally engaging and it’s one of the many things I appreciated about this work. I saw so much of myself in Jules: a few scenes made tears well in my eyes because her agony was so sharp and so vivid. Although I have never adapted her technique to fill the void for companionship, I can wholly empathize with being drawn to someone’s admiration of me when my self-esteem has been dragged through the mud by others who were supposed to consider me sacred.

Warwick wants to be Jules’ hero. He doesn’t want to see her suffering, yet he doesn’t want her to know about his own kryptonite. It is this very defense mechanism and Jules’ own inhibitions based on past experiences that causes bumps along the way.

In addition to the pacing of conflict, character engagement, and passion throbbing throughout the story, descriptions of locations were suffused in such a way that you felt as if you were actually there-sipping beer at the pub, going sightseeing, or volunteering at the different locations.

If you want romantic scenes with the right mixture of spontaneity, tenderness, primal urge, and sensuality–

If you want a modern day tale of the challenges that can occur when two people are trying to find true love–

If you want a read that puts your spirit as well as your mind at each and every scene–

Then you must NOT hesitate in getting Angel Avenue by Sarah Michelle Lynch. This is a must win: all across the board. This has the makings of a modern day romantic classic.
Profile Image for Manu.
18 reviews
January 1, 2014
I absolutely loved this book from the first to the last page , I couldn't stop reading had to know how it ends .
It was my first book from the Author Sarah Michelle Lynch and didn't get disappointed , I will definitely recommend this book .
Profile Image for Jules The Book Junkie Reviews.
1,606 reviews96 followers
February 12, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

Jules had a hard childhood that continues to impact her daily relationships. When she first reaches out, the man, Laurie, tells her he loves her but doesn't stick around. She waits on a street corner where they met; waiting for him or someone to give her what she needs. Warrick, who has had his share of hard knocks, takes a chance and approaches on Saturday afternoon. With his patience, friendship and love she is able to slay the ghosts from the past.

I loved this book. From the start, the well-paced storyline kept me engaged. The characters take a while to get to know as the author "peels the layers of their onion". As their relationship develops the readers get a real feel for both Jules and Warrick even though they continue to try to hide their deepest, darkest secrets from one another. Their flaws torment them while they are able to accept the other's flaws. Their friendship slowly evolves into a love story that is rocked as their secrets are shared. Warrick appears to be Jules anchor but is it really the other way around? The two main characters balance each other nicely, and Warrick, being older and more experienced, gives Jules the love and support she needs to slay her personal dragons and grow into a mature woman who is at peace with her past.

***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
Profile Image for Leah Speller.
411 reviews3 followers
December 13, 2015
Lets see where exactly to begin. It would be easier to tell you what I will not say...like tell you about the characters and what happens. Hey! That takes all the fun out of you reading the book right? Right!

I will suggest you have a box of tissues near by, you may find you need them. Just sayin'.

I really want to thank Book Bub for letting me know about bargains available from Amazon. The choices certainly have allowed me to learn about authors I would not have known. Kinda reminds me of the days of going through the bargain books at different stores. Just to see and always walking away with at least four books. Sorry got a little side tracked here but it was because of this that I learned of this book.

Yes it is a romance novel but no where near what you would think one would be like. This was more like the slice of two people's lives that come together that are really great for each other but they have so many wounds and ghosts some of them causes a lot of pain and time to work through.

We all have some of these skeletons in our closets some we have buried so deep we think that we have dealt with them but in actuality we have not. For me the story struck close to home, sometimes too close. But there is also a cleansing that can happen as well.

I feel the Sarah has taken some very tough issues and worked them through her characters that not only brought them to life but made them a part of me In my humble opinion, it would be difficult for one to walk away from this book and not be changed from it.
Profile Image for Louise White.
376 reviews20 followers
December 7, 2015
I found this book compelling, I wanted to read more about the intricacies of the main characters lives. The detail to attention is amazing and I really could picture the area and characters.

Jules and Warrick are both complex people with troubled pasts, a chance meeting could be the saviour of them both or it could spell disaster.

This story is about heartbreak and loss, the need for human connection and physical closeness. It's a beautiful story.

Jules has not had an easy life but she is surviving and getting on with her life, the love and loss of a man leaves her broken and she finds herself spending her Saturdays searching and craving for some physical contact, just a hug will do. Warrick spots Jules and watches her every Saturday and finally decides to see if she is ok? A friendship develops that has the potential to go further but both of their pasts and secrets hold these two back. The story takes twists that you wouldn't expect but it flows so well.

I'm looking forward to reading Beyond Angel Avenue and where the author will take the story of Jules and Warrick.
Profile Image for Cristina.
318 reviews
September 15, 2025
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is the first book of Sarah Michelle Lynch that I had the pleasure to read and, in fact, I wasn't disappointed at all with her work.

Jules is a women who had a difficult childhood that turned into some problems: in addition to failing to maintain a relationship, she believes she doesn't deserve to be happy or loved. On the other hand, Larrie was a man who really hurt her in the past, making Jules doubtful about other man's intentions.

Over time, Jules finds Warrick who, despite having some dark secrets, loves Jules and helps her overcoming some of her problems. However, Jules starts having doubts when Warrick goes out at night without saying where he's going.

Although the story took some time to develop, I think it was necessary to maintain the narrative's pace and the development of the characters.

Throughout the story, the reader realizes that Warrick becomes the big support that Jules really needed. Furthermore, the feelings they feel for each other are something!
Profile Image for L.J. Diaz.
Author 5 books7 followers
November 16, 2015
This was a wonderful read & my first time reading a novel written by Sarah Michelle Lynch. I was very impressed. When I started reading I didn't really know much about the book but it certainly isn't your average love story. It had me on the verge of tears, holding my breath & cursing! I adored the characters & the twists & turns of the plot. At times it seemed like there were 3 or 4 stories, not just one. Extremely well written, easy to read & lose yourself in. I love how it addresses important issues such as bullying, abuse & addiction. I loved the light versus dark elements. If you like romance with a touch of grit, fast-paced with an erotic twist then you should definitely read Angel Avenue. I promise you won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for Heidi Petersen.
334 reviews6 followers
December 9, 2015
I loved this book. A love story that took a slow meandering path until all the twists and turns that made me want to yell at Sarah (Author).
I loved that we got time to get to know the characters properly and find all there flaws.
Looking forward to the next one.
Profile Image for Andrew Wildman.
Author 1 book14 followers
February 26, 2014
I really enjoyed this book, a very detailed love story, set in Hull, and which has interesting twists, turns and tribulations. Cannot say much more without spoilers!
141 reviews
March 4, 2016
OMG! What an amazing book! I could not put it down. I was so hooked to the story line. Started on the second right away! :)
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews128 followers
Want to read
March 3, 2021
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/29/2020)! 🎁
Profile Image for Nikki.
1,850 reviews20 followers
November 3, 2022
This is my first read by this author and i wasnt sure what to expect as i dont usually read blurbs i just jump right into reading.
So when i first met Jules ill admit i struggled with her a bit, I just wasnt sure on her at all...but when Warrick arrived into her life..boom a different person she became.
Both characters have deep rooted emotional issues/trauma but things become easier when they are around the other.
There is so much emotions, conflict, drama and angst it certainly a rollercoaster for them both from start to end.
And theres still book 2 to find out just where their relationship takes them!
*Read as part of KU*
Profile Image for Julie .
4,251 reviews38k followers
November 14, 2014
Angel Avenue by Sarah Michelle Lynch is a 2013 publication.

Well, I am sad to say this one didn't work for me. Jules meets a guy, falls for his lines, spends the night with him, then he dumps her. So, her entire life is ruined forever and ever. She meets a nice man named Warrick and he is all in love with her, but she can't seem to give herself over those feelings. The story is told from Jule's point view and from Warrick' point of view, which is a style of writing I really like. However, this one dragged on for an excessive period of time and Jule's irritated me to no end. Yes, she had a rough past with the horrific way her mom passed, her job is like everyone's job.. satisfying on some levels and frustrating in many others, but for the most part, her life doesn't not have to be what she turned it into. Everyone plays the fool at some time and feels like crap about if for a while, but a time comes when you move on from it and learn from your mistakes. It was obvious Warrick was not like the guy who jilted her, he was safe, steady, dependable and in love with her, even if he had a few issues. Don't we all? I stuck with this one to the end and through two epilogues from Warrick's point of view. After all we went through to get to this point the ending was abrupt and I ended up thinking Warrick deserved better than he got. The writing style and prose were fine, nothing wrong there. This story was just not my cup of tea. 2.5 stars
Profile Image for Ann Meemken.
349 reviews3 followers
March 18, 2016
Jules had a difficult childhood and does not feel she will find the right man to fall in love with. She has been hurt in past, by a man that she fell hard for and he broke her heart. She throws herself into her work as a teacher to get over the pain. During the weekends tries to find a guy to take home that will hold her to lessen the pain. Warrick notices a young woman standing on a corner almost every weekend. He wonders what her story is and who or what has caused her so much pain. He wants to meet her and help her if he can. How will they meet? Will Jules open up to him? How will they help each other?

Angel Avenue started out a bit slower than what I am use to. I found it a bit confusing at first but as you read you learn more about both character's past history and how it still affects them now. Once you begin getting to know the character's more the story unfolds and you begin understanding more about them. There is some stuff that is still a mystery. I wanted to continue reading on to find out what happens next in Beyond Angel Avenue.

Reviewed for Jo&Isalovesbooks review team
Profile Image for Kara.
763 reviews30 followers
April 28, 2014
This is my first read of Sarah's. Sarah's captivating word usage and the intrigue of Sarah and Warrick's pasts kept me reading. Jules is searching for her peace and happiness. Warrick seems to be hiding from something. I found myself getting frustrated with Jules' and Warrick's relationship because of the secrecy going on. There's many cryptic moments that kept me guessing and at times made me feel like I was missing something as well. Finding one's purpose and the deeper meaning in life is to me the premise of this novel. Give this a try! Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2014/...
Profile Image for Rebecca Larsen.
413 reviews6 followers
February 13, 2014
4 Star

A steady paced story line that keeps thing interesting. Sarah's vivid descriptions of locations made me feel as if I were actually their. The characters were well developed and the conflicts between characters were interspersed between other events. This book will have you counting the blessings you have. This book will take you on an emotional ride, from laughter and happiness to sadness and tears, anger and regret.

My favorite quote from this book ( I think it is absolutely true) is
"Regret is a tricky thing. It's not simple or black and white."

A Must Read for any romance fan.
Profile Image for Alana.
152 reviews
September 21, 2019
First of SML's books I have read and must say her style of writing and vocabulary used is very different to that of anything else I have read. Having met the author I can very much hear her in this story. It took me a little while to really get in to the story but when I did I was hooked. Jules I did find on the needy pathetic side but understandable when you get to know her past. Warrick to me is pretty much a typical guy but with some pain in his past. Overall was a great read and took twists and turns keeping you guessing a little. Looking forward to reading the next one!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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