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Jaded
To what lengths will a man go for the woman he loves?
Reed Dartmouth will learn the answer to those questions time and time again throughout his relationship with Jade Montgomery.
When he first meets her as a young, gentle boy the heartache from losing his mother only a year before is still fresh and painful. Jade is different from anyone else he’s ever met; tough, sassy, and even a bit cruel. But she’s also the same as he is: she knows what it’s like to lose a parent.
Their friendship begins and a bond like no other is formed. Time passes and Reed learns that not only are Jade’s parents dead, they were murdered and she’s made an oath to one day bring them justice. No matter the price.
As they grow older their love evolves but for Jade, old habits die hard and she can’t stop hurting those she loves the most. Even in the midst of searching for her parents’ killers, passion ignites and jealousy burns as Jade tests Reed’s devotion for her. Will she push him too far?
Reed Dartmouth will learn the answer to those questions time and time again throughout his relationship with Jade Montgomery.
When he first meets her as a young, gentle boy the heartache from losing his mother only a year before is still fresh and painful. Jade is different from anyone else he’s ever met; tough, sassy, and even a bit cruel. But she’s also the same as he is: she knows what it’s like to lose a parent.
Their friendship begins and a bond like no other is formed. Time passes and Reed learns that not only are Jade’s parents dead, they were murdered and she’s made an oath to one day bring them justice. No matter the price.
As they grow older their love evolves but for Jade, old habits die hard and she can’t stop hurting those she loves the most. Even in the midst of searching for her parents’ killers, passion ignites and jealousy burns as Jade tests Reed’s devotion for her. Will she push him too far?
241 pages, Paperback
First published July 12, 2014
6 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Bellon
8 books120 followersMichelle Bellon currently lives in the Pacific Northwest with her fiance and four children. She earned her Associates degree in Nursing and fills her free time with her love for writing. She has published three novels.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 30, 2018
This tale veering from young adult to new adult - where it belongs - is somewhat like 'Kevin' in that Jade the girl who appears in the neighbourhood is asocial, taunting, violent and sneering. How badly off would a guy have to be for a pal before he'd hang around with her?
I suppose the striking placement of a female in such a role is what mostly recommends the book, that and Jade's insistence that she is going to find out who killed her parents - surely enough to freak anyone out, after all. The reader actually suspects various alternatives along the way.
I didn't love it, but the characters are not loveable so the author has clearly just concentrated on characterisation at the different times in the cast's lives. Interesting read which might mean more to Americans. Adult scenes and strong language.
I downloaded an e-copy from Instafreebie. This is an unbiased review.
I suppose the striking placement of a female in such a role is what mostly recommends the book, that and Jade's insistence that she is going to find out who killed her parents - surely enough to freak anyone out, after all. The reader actually suspects various alternatives along the way.
I didn't love it, but the characters are not loveable so the author has clearly just concentrated on characterisation at the different times in the cast's lives. Interesting read which might mean more to Americans. Adult scenes and strong language.
I downloaded an e-copy from Instafreebie. This is an unbiased review.
July 13, 2014
The first thing that delighted me about this book is the names of the two protagonists, ‘Reed’ (a tall, slender-leaved plant of the grass family that grows in water or on marshy ground) and ‘Jade’ (a hard, typically green stone used for ornaments.) By choosing these names, the contrast between them is already established. Add the title ‘Jaded’ (‘weary’) to this mix, and you already have a beginning of a feel for the characters.
Prevalent in this story is the mystery of the past. It casts a shadow over the relationship between Reed and Jade. After his mother died Reed felt so lost, until a year later, a new girl moved into the neighborhood. Jade was two years older than him and she had lost both of her parents, which for him, pointed to a way out of loneliness. Her resistance to connect with him, then as now, is explored through her reaction to the murder of her parents, back when she was a child. When the police showed up, she was sitting on the floor in between her two dead parents with their blood all over her.
At present, Jade is not your regular maiden in distress, waiting to be rescued. Instead, she takes the initiative to solve the mystery on her own, without sharing the information about it, nor the risk. “But I don’t want protection. I want to nail these bastards. I want them to pay for what they did to my parents.”
The search is crossing in two opposite directions: Jade is looking for clues, and at the same time the criminals who killed her parents are searching for her old journal, where she may have recorded the names of the killers. “It’s likely got the names of the men who killed my parents. That, with the dates combined, could very well re-open the investigation.”
Punctuating the search for clues are scenes of physical struggles between Reed and the attackers. These scenes are delivered blow by blow, with vivid cinematic rhythm, and vivid glances at the chaos that ensues: “Liquid, glass, and glitter splattered out, mixing with the spray of blood in a collage of color.”
Yet even with the violence, the author preserves a sense of the basic dignity of her characters: “Reed’s hands shook but he couldn’t make himself pull the trigger. Never in his life had he held a real gun before. And he certainly hadn’t ever intended to kill someone with one. Even now, with his and Jade’s life on the line, he couldn’t do it.”
Above all I love the way the author expresses the search for asking forgiveness, starting out with a half-ironic tone, and ending in earnest.
“I’m sorry,” he says to her at the beginning, “that I’ve always let you lead me around by the nose to my own detriment. I’m sorry that I loved you. But that’s all there is—just sorrow and regret. We’ve got nothing more between us.”
Towards the end of the story she changes enough to find the strength to tell him, without irony, “I’m sorry for everything. For obsessing on catching my parents’ killers. For dragging you into this mess. For all the times that I hurt you on purpose. For all the times that I hurt you and didn’t even know it. For all the things that I can’t even put into words. I’m just sorry.”
Five stars.
Prevalent in this story is the mystery of the past. It casts a shadow over the relationship between Reed and Jade. After his mother died Reed felt so lost, until a year later, a new girl moved into the neighborhood. Jade was two years older than him and she had lost both of her parents, which for him, pointed to a way out of loneliness. Her resistance to connect with him, then as now, is explored through her reaction to the murder of her parents, back when she was a child. When the police showed up, she was sitting on the floor in between her two dead parents with their blood all over her.
At present, Jade is not your regular maiden in distress, waiting to be rescued. Instead, she takes the initiative to solve the mystery on her own, without sharing the information about it, nor the risk. “But I don’t want protection. I want to nail these bastards. I want them to pay for what they did to my parents.”
The search is crossing in two opposite directions: Jade is looking for clues, and at the same time the criminals who killed her parents are searching for her old journal, where she may have recorded the names of the killers. “It’s likely got the names of the men who killed my parents. That, with the dates combined, could very well re-open the investigation.”
Punctuating the search for clues are scenes of physical struggles between Reed and the attackers. These scenes are delivered blow by blow, with vivid cinematic rhythm, and vivid glances at the chaos that ensues: “Liquid, glass, and glitter splattered out, mixing with the spray of blood in a collage of color.”
Yet even with the violence, the author preserves a sense of the basic dignity of her characters: “Reed’s hands shook but he couldn’t make himself pull the trigger. Never in his life had he held a real gun before. And he certainly hadn’t ever intended to kill someone with one. Even now, with his and Jade’s life on the line, he couldn’t do it.”
Above all I love the way the author expresses the search for asking forgiveness, starting out with a half-ironic tone, and ending in earnest.
“I’m sorry,” he says to her at the beginning, “that I’ve always let you lead me around by the nose to my own detriment. I’m sorry that I loved you. But that’s all there is—just sorrow and regret. We’ve got nothing more between us.”
Towards the end of the story she changes enough to find the strength to tell him, without irony, “I’m sorry for everything. For obsessing on catching my parents’ killers. For dragging you into this mess. For all the times that I hurt you on purpose. For all the times that I hurt you and didn’t even know it. For all the things that I can’t even put into words. I’m just sorry.”
Five stars.
August 7, 2014
5 Feathers! You can find my full review here:http://fascication.blogspot.com/2014/...
This was definitely a crazy-awesomw-amazing rollercoster, people. Seriously, I haven't been subjected to so many feelings since 'Before They Find Us'' by Michelle A. Hansen and I LOVED EVERY FREAKING SECOND. But first thing first, we have a fight agains time, while our heroes are searching for clues to resolve a crime that has happened some time ago, but they are not the only ones because the bad guys are searching too and the stakes can't go any higher...
In this book, Reed Darthmouth finds himself stranded between his feelings for Jade Montgomery and his desire to run from it, because with this loves, besides jealousy comes also the helpness of their situation, their past that even though it was united them in the first place, now it could destroy them...
I can tell you how hard it was for me to see Jade this way, because while I understood perfectly her reaction and the distance that she puts between her and Reed, I also wanted him to be happy with the girl he loves, but it's hard when the ghost of past are so... alive, figuratively speaking...
But how could it not be this way after the horrible crime scene? How could you not become jaded? And have in mind that everything has happened when she was just a child! But what it was more surprising it was their struggle between their past, wich was very detailed, and their fight against their fears, being in love and trying to overcome their past.
This was definitely a crazy-awesomw-amazing rollercoster, people. Seriously, I haven't been subjected to so many feelings since 'Before They Find Us'' by Michelle A. Hansen and I LOVED EVERY FREAKING SECOND. But first thing first, we have a fight agains time, while our heroes are searching for clues to resolve a crime that has happened some time ago, but they are not the only ones because the bad guys are searching too and the stakes can't go any higher...
In this book, Reed Darthmouth finds himself stranded between his feelings for Jade Montgomery and his desire to run from it, because with this loves, besides jealousy comes also the helpness of their situation, their past that even though it was united them in the first place, now it could destroy them...
I can tell you how hard it was for me to see Jade this way, because while I understood perfectly her reaction and the distance that she puts between her and Reed, I also wanted him to be happy with the girl he loves, but it's hard when the ghost of past are so... alive, figuratively speaking...
But how could it not be this way after the horrible crime scene? How could you not become jaded? And have in mind that everything has happened when she was just a child! But what it was more surprising it was their struggle between their past, wich was very detailed, and their fight against their fears, being in love and trying to overcome their past.
August 27, 2014
Ten year old Reed Dartmouth lives with his Nana after his mother died a year ago when he meets twelve year old Jade, she is after his bullies and when she is beating one of them,demanding back what he took from her, Reed is hooked and ants to be friends with her. Jade lost her parents too but by murder, she was a witness of that when she was three years old. Jade drags Reed into her dark corner of the world, she is determine to bring the murderers of her parents down, no matter what it costs.
When Jade moves away she makes Reed promise her to wait and not to fall in love ever. He keeps his promise and when she returns her drops everything, Jade still uses him and push his buttons, will his love still be strong enough to let her? Or will he finally chose for himself and run?
Well written mystery, it isn't a easy job to write but Michelle Bellon did a good job, she created great characters, twists and plots, the book will not bore you one minute.
August 22, 2014
This was a quick read, I did not want to put it down.
This is not your typical romance novel. Usually it’s the woman chasing the guy, and the guy playing games. In this case Reed has chased/loved Jade for as long as he can remember. Jade has always played games and kept him at arms length. They were childhood friends and somewhere along the way those feelings turned into something more.
Jade makes Reed make a promise as a teenager. Reed has held onto that promise at all costs. Undying love is a very real and powerful thing.
I loved reading about the differences and yet similarities of when Jade and Reed were children into adults. There were secrets on both sides that were thrilling to watch unfold as the truth comes out. I highly recommend this book.
This is not your typical romance novel. Usually it’s the woman chasing the guy, and the guy playing games. In this case Reed has chased/loved Jade for as long as he can remember. Jade has always played games and kept him at arms length. They were childhood friends and somewhere along the way those feelings turned into something more.
Jade makes Reed make a promise as a teenager. Reed has held onto that promise at all costs. Undying love is a very real and powerful thing.
I loved reading about the differences and yet similarities of when Jade and Reed were children into adults. There were secrets on both sides that were thrilling to watch unfold as the truth comes out. I highly recommend this book.
August 2, 2015
What a wonderful way of writing about characters...where they have been, where they are going, how they arrived there, but more importantly...where they came from. This roller coaster, teeter-totter relationship between Reed and Jade was as true as the reading eye could see. Anyone who reads this book, or has read it, can definitely say they can attest to being transported, traveling along with the characters wherever each written page turned. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and reading about characters who could very well be the boy and or girl next door. AND thank goodness and God for grandmother's..in story and life, their jobs are never ending.
Kudos, my dear friend another well told piece of literature enjoyment. THANX FOR SHARING yet once again another remarkable Mellon delight.
Kudos, my dear friend another well told piece of literature enjoyment. THANX FOR SHARING yet once again another remarkable Mellon delight.
April 5, 2015
I was given a copy for my honest review.
I enjoyed this book. It is not your typical love story. I would recommend this book.
I enjoyed this book. It is not your typical love story. I would recommend this book.
July 13, 2015
3.5/5 stars
Reed Dartmouth has loved Jade Montgomery from the moment they became friends. Jade is something completely out of this world with her fierceness and determination to find those who killed her parents. Their relationship was never meant for smooth sailing and through the years Reed has stood by to watch Jade from a distance while holding true to his promise to never love another girl. As time passes, Reed's grown into a pretty successful businessman and he's never stopped loving Jade. But enough has to be enough - the only question lies in if he's actually serious and ready to put his foot down.
Okay this book made me mad. That's not a great way to start a review but I was so angry at Jade when I was reading this book it drove me nuts. She's such a mean and heartless person with the way she plays Reed and ties their relationship in a bunch on knots. Honestly he could have done better - he was so close to doing better, but she had to come into the picture and make Reed forget about the other girl. I'm sorry for that little rant, but as far as ships go - my heart was definitely NOT in this one.
Reed on other hand is such a sweetheart which brings me back to the point that Jade doesn't deserve him and he can do so much better. He's so loyal to her that it ends up blinding and hurting him a lot. Agh, all those moments when she just completely ripped him apart with her words and actions killed me. While I will back down a tiny bit and say that Jade's determination to bring justice to her parents is admirable - I draw the line when it consumes her.
So to say the least the characters and I had some misunderstandings for sure, but the story itself is still engaging. You're hooked with wanting to know what happens next and hoping (at least in my case) that Reed will see some sense. I won't lie and say that I was happy with the ending but I am at least content because Reed finally took his stand and made it clear that he was done with her games. His relationship with Jade is nothing but rocky so for the time being I'm glad they've reached a moment of agreement and peace.
The final question is do I recommend? I think yes because while Jade frustrated me to no end, the author did a really great representation of a not so smooth love story. Everything in the relationship is raw and real which is definitely a contrast from the cutesy love stories out there. However I wouldn't consider this story full of angst because the characters know what they want - it just takes them a while to get there.
Reed Dartmouth has loved Jade Montgomery from the moment they became friends. Jade is something completely out of this world with her fierceness and determination to find those who killed her parents. Their relationship was never meant for smooth sailing and through the years Reed has stood by to watch Jade from a distance while holding true to his promise to never love another girl. As time passes, Reed's grown into a pretty successful businessman and he's never stopped loving Jade. But enough has to be enough - the only question lies in if he's actually serious and ready to put his foot down.
Okay this book made me mad. That's not a great way to start a review but I was so angry at Jade when I was reading this book it drove me nuts. She's such a mean and heartless person with the way she plays Reed and ties their relationship in a bunch on knots. Honestly he could have done better - he was so close to doing better, but she had to come into the picture and make Reed forget about the other girl. I'm sorry for that little rant, but as far as ships go - my heart was definitely NOT in this one.
Reed on other hand is such a sweetheart which brings me back to the point that Jade doesn't deserve him and he can do so much better. He's so loyal to her that it ends up blinding and hurting him a lot. Agh, all those moments when she just completely ripped him apart with her words and actions killed me. While I will back down a tiny bit and say that Jade's determination to bring justice to her parents is admirable - I draw the line when it consumes her.
So to say the least the characters and I had some misunderstandings for sure, but the story itself is still engaging. You're hooked with wanting to know what happens next and hoping (at least in my case) that Reed will see some sense. I won't lie and say that I was happy with the ending but I am at least content because Reed finally took his stand and made it clear that he was done with her games. His relationship with Jade is nothing but rocky so for the time being I'm glad they've reached a moment of agreement and peace.
The final question is do I recommend? I think yes because while Jade frustrated me to no end, the author did a really great representation of a not so smooth love story. Everything in the relationship is raw and real which is definitely a contrast from the cutesy love stories out there. However I wouldn't consider this story full of angst because the characters know what they want - it just takes them a while to get there.
September 30, 2014
A special thank you to Michelle Bellon for sending me a copy of Jaded
We all have that one person in our lives that brings both wonder and grief. It's up to us to figure out which they bring more of. If they make you sad more than they make you happy, then it might be time to let them go.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcXyG...
Fireproof by The National is the perfect song for Jaded, totally go listen to it.
Have you ever read a book and after finishing it, you feel as if something was missing? That's kinda how I felt after finishing Jaded.
I read Jaded in pretty much one day, the plot was addictive, the characters engaging.
Reed and Jade had a very interesting relationship that really prodded me to ask myself the question; How much is to much? 50% of the time I hated Jade. She was mean in every sense of the word, however, the other 50% of the time I loved her. At times I understood where she was coming from and I just wanted to hug her and tell her that everything was going to be ok. But on the flip side...I wanted to wring her neck.
Jaded is an addicting read, there is no doubting it, but I feel that the book was too short, and that the ending was rushed and rather sloppy. In fact, at the end of the book I was certain that there MUST be a sequel SOMEWHERE, or even a novella to tie up the loose ends. Alas... there is not, and I am so sad because I really enjoyed the story, and I want more!
Overall however, as far as "New Adult" (ugh I don't like that label) goes, Jaded is really one of the best I have read.
We all have that one person in our lives that brings both wonder and grief. It's up to us to figure out which they bring more of. If they make you sad more than they make you happy, then it might be time to let them go.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcXyG...
Fireproof by The National is the perfect song for Jaded, totally go listen to it.
Have you ever read a book and after finishing it, you feel as if something was missing? That's kinda how I felt after finishing Jaded.
I read Jaded in pretty much one day, the plot was addictive, the characters engaging.
Reed and Jade had a very interesting relationship that really prodded me to ask myself the question; How much is to much? 50% of the time I hated Jade. She was mean in every sense of the word, however, the other 50% of the time I loved her. At times I understood where she was coming from and I just wanted to hug her and tell her that everything was going to be ok. But on the flip side...I wanted to wring her neck.
Jaded is an addicting read, there is no doubting it, but I feel that the book was too short, and that the ending was rushed and rather sloppy. In fact, at the end of the book I was certain that there MUST be a sequel SOMEWHERE, or even a novella to tie up the loose ends. Alas... there is not, and I am so sad because I really enjoyed the story, and I want more!
Overall however, as far as "New Adult" (ugh I don't like that label) goes, Jaded is really one of the best I have read.
April 27, 2015
I thought the writing in Jaded was average. It kept me engaged enough to keep reading the book, however, there were times I was annoyed with the writing and writing style and was unimpressed. However, the character development was done well. I absolutely hated Jade and thought she was a terrible person. I felt sorry for Reed throughout the book because he had done nothing to deserve the way he was being treated. At the same time I was annoyed with him for not being able to move on past Jade even when he knew how unhealthy his relationship with her was. Even though I disliked the characters I had such strong emotions towards them; Bellon did a good job developing them as characters.
I enjoyed the story being told in three parts: childhood, teenagers, and adulthood. This gave the readers the chance to see how Reed and Jade were developing throughout their life as individuals and together. However, there were parts of the storyline I didn’t think were developed as well. Jade’s dead drug cartel parents (which seem a little unrealistic, but whatever) didn’t seem to be a major part of the storyline until the very end of the book. At the beginning of the book we were introduced to the idea of Jade’s past and how it was a problem, but it wasn’t until the last 20 minutes when all the action took place.
I hated the ending. It felt like it was wrapped up way too nicely. Jade has been running for years, but suddenly she is attacked and all the men are either found by the police or killed. It seemed unrealistic to have the problem going on for over 20 years and then for it to have been resolved in the last 5 pages of the novel. I also hated Jade and Reed ending up together. While Jade apologizes at the end, I don’t see much in their relationship changing or becoming healthy. For the entire book, Jade needs to be in control, tortures Reed, and is mean. Both of them are aware of it but do nothing to change. It seemed too happy of an ending for them to end up together.
I received a free copy of this book through Word Slinger Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the story being told in three parts: childhood, teenagers, and adulthood. This gave the readers the chance to see how Reed and Jade were developing throughout their life as individuals and together. However, there were parts of the storyline I didn’t think were developed as well. Jade’s dead drug cartel parents (which seem a little unrealistic, but whatever) didn’t seem to be a major part of the storyline until the very end of the book. At the beginning of the book we were introduced to the idea of Jade’s past and how it was a problem, but it wasn’t until the last 20 minutes when all the action took place.
I hated the ending. It felt like it was wrapped up way too nicely. Jade has been running for years, but suddenly she is attacked and all the men are either found by the police or killed. It seemed unrealistic to have the problem going on for over 20 years and then for it to have been resolved in the last 5 pages of the novel. I also hated Jade and Reed ending up together. While Jade apologizes at the end, I don’t see much in their relationship changing or becoming healthy. For the entire book, Jade needs to be in control, tortures Reed, and is mean. Both of them are aware of it but do nothing to change. It seemed too happy of an ending for them to end up together.
I received a free copy of this book through Word Slinger Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2015
I loved the book. From the cover, the characters and to the plot. It’s very interesting and I have managed to read it fast because I was so hooked to the story.
I really like the character of Reed and how the story focuses on him, unlike others that mostly focuses on the female protagonist. I usually enjoy books that focuses on the male protagonist’s POV because it’s fun for me to have a look on what’s going on in the minds of the opposite sex. This book falls to that category. Jade’s character on the other hand, is really complicated. I had a love/hate relationship with regards to her character. However, I understand where her “character complications” are coming from because of her past. The emotions were raw and believable that I fell for it. It made me really emotional while reading the book.
I felt really nervous towards the end of the book because it seemed like I’m not going to get a good ending. Oh, but I was wrong. I liked the ending. I just think that the thrill with regards to the conflict from Jade’s past was lacking. I wish I’d seen more action to that, but then again, this is a romantic novel not a suspense-thriller one. Also, I wish I’d seen more on Justine, I felt like Mia’s character was her replacement.
I also like the narrative of the story. It’s divided into three parts, starting from when Jade and Reed were pre-teens until they were adults. It makes the book organized and easier to read. Also, it gives the readers the experience of growing up with the characters, which is pretty cool.
Review also posted on The Bibliophile Confessions
I really like the character of Reed and how the story focuses on him, unlike others that mostly focuses on the female protagonist. I usually enjoy books that focuses on the male protagonist’s POV because it’s fun for me to have a look on what’s going on in the minds of the opposite sex. This book falls to that category. Jade’s character on the other hand, is really complicated. I had a love/hate relationship with regards to her character. However, I understand where her “character complications” are coming from because of her past. The emotions were raw and believable that I fell for it. It made me really emotional while reading the book.
I felt really nervous towards the end of the book because it seemed like I’m not going to get a good ending. Oh, but I was wrong. I liked the ending. I just think that the thrill with regards to the conflict from Jade’s past was lacking. I wish I’d seen more action to that, but then again, this is a romantic novel not a suspense-thriller one. Also, I wish I’d seen more on Justine, I felt like Mia’s character was her replacement.
I also like the narrative of the story. It’s divided into three parts, starting from when Jade and Reed were pre-teens until they were adults. It makes the book organized and easier to read. Also, it gives the readers the experience of growing up with the characters, which is pretty cool.
Review also posted on The Bibliophile Confessions
August 26, 2014
First of all Michelle Bellon delivered, the writing was flawless, the story flowed beautifully, and the characters were very real for me. There were times while reading that I wanted to hit or throw something but it's all good!!!!
Okay so that being said, this story drove me absolutely bonkers....this is a story about a young boy *Reed Dartmouth* who lost his Mother when he was 8 years old then at 9 years old met and fell in love with a 12 year old girl *Jade Montgomery* who had also lost her parents. It wasn't really love at first sight but as their friendship grew so did Reed's fascination for Jade. Then at 17 Jade left the country to finish school in Europe but before she left she made 15 year old Reed promise to never love anyone but her and Reed being the loyal sweet guy he was made her that promise. Let's skip to 10 years later and Reed has kept that promise he made even though he hadn't heard from Jade in years.
Then to our who to our wondrous eyes should re-appear but Jade and of course Reed ran like a bat out of hell to her. I've never been so conflicted with two individuals, I was so angry with Reed and I actually despised Jade for much of the story, I felt like she was such a player abusing Reed's affections. I felt so torn, even though I knew Reed loved Jade I wanted for him to move on and he wouldn't...arghhhh. But as usual what I wanted didn't really matter....so if you want to read something that will keep you turning page after page while shaking your head screaming REALLY to the walls then you need to grab this book right now!
Okay so that being said, this story drove me absolutely bonkers....this is a story about a young boy *Reed Dartmouth* who lost his Mother when he was 8 years old then at 9 years old met and fell in love with a 12 year old girl *Jade Montgomery* who had also lost her parents. It wasn't really love at first sight but as their friendship grew so did Reed's fascination for Jade. Then at 17 Jade left the country to finish school in Europe but before she left she made 15 year old Reed promise to never love anyone but her and Reed being the loyal sweet guy he was made her that promise. Let's skip to 10 years later and Reed has kept that promise he made even though he hadn't heard from Jade in years.
Then to our who to our wondrous eyes should re-appear but Jade and of course Reed ran like a bat out of hell to her. I've never been so conflicted with two individuals, I was so angry with Reed and I actually despised Jade for much of the story, I felt like she was such a player abusing Reed's affections. I felt so torn, even though I knew Reed loved Jade I wanted for him to move on and he wouldn't...arghhhh. But as usual what I wanted didn't really matter....so if you want to read something that will keep you turning page after page while shaking your head screaming REALLY to the walls then you need to grab this book right now!
May 26, 2015
Who doesn't love a lifelong romance entangled with mystery and suspense?
In all honesty, I spent the first half of this novel wondering if the main characters would keep going in the same vicious circle with their relationship. From friends to lovers to enemies and back again; I did not know it there would ever be a resolution.
Reed, victim to his love for Jade, spends his life from childhood to adulthood longing for and loving his best childhood friend Jade. Jade has that dark dangerous past that eventually comes into play again in full force and puts both main characters in danger. There were moments in this novel that I really hoped Reed would open his heart to loving one of the sweeter, more normal women in his life but had on every occasion proven that his love for Jade would never fade.
Once I crossed the threshold from the childhood to the adulthood portion of the story, I could not put it down. MB has a way with reeling you back into Reed and Jade's story without you knowing it!
Surely I am glad there was resolution for both of them in the end of the story even if a small part of me still wishes this guy had been able to move on to someone who didn't complicate his life so much. As it would turn out, he lives for the way he loves Jade; he craves it and comes to realize he wouldn't have it any other way. That's how love should be right? Testing the boundaries with one another with little regard because that is the way you truly get to know someone and build a loving bond with them.
In all honesty, I spent the first half of this novel wondering if the main characters would keep going in the same vicious circle with their relationship. From friends to lovers to enemies and back again; I did not know it there would ever be a resolution.
Reed, victim to his love for Jade, spends his life from childhood to adulthood longing for and loving his best childhood friend Jade. Jade has that dark dangerous past that eventually comes into play again in full force and puts both main characters in danger. There were moments in this novel that I really hoped Reed would open his heart to loving one of the sweeter, more normal women in his life but had on every occasion proven that his love for Jade would never fade.
Once I crossed the threshold from the childhood to the adulthood portion of the story, I could not put it down. MB has a way with reeling you back into Reed and Jade's story without you knowing it!
Surely I am glad there was resolution for both of them in the end of the story even if a small part of me still wishes this guy had been able to move on to someone who didn't complicate his life so much. As it would turn out, he lives for the way he loves Jade; he craves it and comes to realize he wouldn't have it any other way. That's how love should be right? Testing the boundaries with one another with little regard because that is the way you truly get to know someone and build a loving bond with them.
August 25, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The original review can be found on www.genuinejenn.com
This has been one heck of a book! Have you ever read a book that you just wanted to throw across the room because of the characters and story? Yep, I was all over the place with this one. The emotional roller coaster was crazy, trying not to be mad a Jade or Reed, happy one minute, angry or upset another. It was a great read. The storyline had me so tense at one point I wasn't sure I would be able to continue the torment. Both of the main characters are troubled, they both lost their parent(s) and became friends that had a very different relationship. Right from the beginning you knew they would be meant for each other but they just have a crazy, torturous relationship because of Jade and her angry for losing her parents when she was so young. At times I was silently yelling at Reed to not get involved with Justine or any other girl or just get over Jade.
The author did a great job developing the storyline and characters. This story flows well and grabs you with tons of emotion.
A great book! I give this a 4.5 stars out of 5 because of the torment that Jade & Reed put me through. It was a love to hate or a hate to love. In the end a great book. I am excited to read more by Michelle Bellon.
This has been one heck of a book! Have you ever read a book that you just wanted to throw across the room because of the characters and story? Yep, I was all over the place with this one. The emotional roller coaster was crazy, trying not to be mad a Jade or Reed, happy one minute, angry or upset another. It was a great read. The storyline had me so tense at one point I wasn't sure I would be able to continue the torment. Both of the main characters are troubled, they both lost their parent(s) and became friends that had a very different relationship. Right from the beginning you knew they would be meant for each other but they just have a crazy, torturous relationship because of Jade and her angry for losing her parents when she was so young. At times I was silently yelling at Reed to not get involved with Justine or any other girl or just get over Jade.
The author did a great job developing the storyline and characters. This story flows well and grabs you with tons of emotion.
A great book! I give this a 4.5 stars out of 5 because of the torment that Jade & Reed put me through. It was a love to hate or a hate to love. In the end a great book. I am excited to read more by Michelle Bellon.
August 29, 2020
*I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Jaded is a contemporary romance novel written by Michelle Bellon.
Precisely one year after the death of his mother eleven-year-old Reed Dartmouth finds himself instantly attracted to the sassy but cruel new girl next door. As their friendship begins a bond like no other is formed when they come to realize that they both really are one in the same. However, as time passes Reed will come to learn that some wounds just run way to deep to ever fully heal and it makes their love difficult. But when old habits die hard and an obsession for justice puts both their lives in danger, his devotion to her will be tested as he finds out to what lengths a man will go to in order to save the woman that he loves.
Young adult with a small portion of erotic romance mixed in. Bellon’s attempt at a complex issue makes for some well developed characters but a progressively slow storyline. Expect to have some mixed emotions.
Jaded is a contemporary romance novel written by Michelle Bellon.
Precisely one year after the death of his mother eleven-year-old Reed Dartmouth finds himself instantly attracted to the sassy but cruel new girl next door. As their friendship begins a bond like no other is formed when they come to realize that they both really are one in the same. However, as time passes Reed will come to learn that some wounds just run way to deep to ever fully heal and it makes their love difficult. But when old habits die hard and an obsession for justice puts both their lives in danger, his devotion to her will be tested as he finds out to what lengths a man will go to in order to save the woman that he loves.
Young adult with a small portion of erotic romance mixed in. Bellon’s attempt at a complex issue makes for some well developed characters but a progressively slow storyline. Expect to have some mixed emotions.
July 30, 2014
Once I picked it up I couldn’t put it down. Jaded is the story of Jade and Reed. This lovely story will take you on an adventure all the way up the mountain and all the way back down. Jaded is fiercely emotional and will more than likely drive you a little insane with how back and forth both of the characters are, but that’s just part of its charm. I would not recommend you reading Jaded if you want a book meant to make me relax. Jaded had me on the edge of my chair ready to jump out and shake both of the characters back to reality. Definitely recommend this book for anyone who is willing to ride the thrill coaster up and down with this couple.
April 13, 2015
I got this because I follow the author on Facebook. I'm glad I did buy this. She is really talented.
There were two major plots to resolve early on. The first one we learn about halfway into the story. By this time, I really like these characters and want to see what happens. The second plot is woven in and doesn't get resolved until 90% percent of the story. I worried that it wouldn't get resolved, but it wraps up well.
I wanted to like Jade-the character. Then I wanted to hate her. I wanted Reed to get over her, then I wanted them together. That's makes for a story that can hook me and keep me interested. I could run a gamut of feelings. .
There were two major plots to resolve early on. The first one we learn about halfway into the story. By this time, I really like these characters and want to see what happens. The second plot is woven in and doesn't get resolved until 90% percent of the story. I worried that it wouldn't get resolved, but it wraps up well.
I wanted to like Jade-the character. Then I wanted to hate her. I wanted Reed to get over her, then I wanted them together. That's makes for a story that can hook me and keep me interested. I could run a gamut of feelings. .
March 18, 2016
Given to me for my honest review!
I found it unique and well written keeping me turning the pages pretty quick wanting to see what happened next. I love a book with a 'strong' female lead that being said I felt Jade was too mean and angry for her own good...I still liked her understanding her anger to a point! Losing her parents in such a violent way (so young at the time) and being left with a grandmother (quite mean herself)...not much love shown to her until Reed, however she'd often get carried away with her meanness and never seems to grow out of it!
Regardless I still really liked the book :D
I found it unique and well written keeping me turning the pages pretty quick wanting to see what happened next. I love a book with a 'strong' female lead that being said I felt Jade was too mean and angry for her own good...I still liked her understanding her anger to a point! Losing her parents in such a violent way (so young at the time) and being left with a grandmother (quite mean herself)...not much love shown to her until Reed, however she'd often get carried away with her meanness and never seems to grow out of it!
Regardless I still really liked the book :D
September 15, 2014
This is a really gripping read. I found myself sitting in the edge of my seat biting my nails reading this story.
This is the story of Reed and Jade. Reeds living with his nan after losing his mum. I love how he meets Jade. She's lost both her parents and as she gets older she goes in search of her parents killers.
This is a really great unique storyline that I loved. The author gripped me from the start. Highly recommend this story.
This is the story of Reed and Jade. Reeds living with his nan after losing his mum. I love how he meets Jade. She's lost both her parents and as she gets older she goes in search of her parents killers.
This is a really great unique storyline that I loved. The author gripped me from the start. Highly recommend this story.
April 6, 2016
the book had a good story to it and the characters were ok, however I didn't like Jade. to me through out the whole story she was childish, naive, and a brat.. many times I wanted to slap her on the back of the head and just scream and to torment reed through the whole thing ...ugh
August 21, 2014
I loved the book and finally a romance with a slightly different edge. Wonderful strong characters that stood the test of time. Definitely a must read.
August 15, 2014
Mixed feelings...
Mixed feelings...
it's not what I expected, but it was still a good read. I gave it 3 stars because I felt that more was needed.
Mixed feelings...
it's not what I expected, but it was still a good read. I gave it 3 stars because I felt that more was needed.
October 10, 2014
Was pleasantly surprised by this story. Took me awhile to get into this book, but once I did I enjoyed reading it and didn't want to put it down.
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