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Jem
Two injured, stubborn souls meet unexpectedly. Will they save each other from their demons or have they been too damaged for too long to see past the pain?
Growing up, all Jem knew was hatred and the pain from his father's fists. Taunted by the kids at school, he was alone, until a girl with carrot coloured hair sat next to him.
She smiled.
She listened.
She cared.
She was his angel, and he knew he’d love her forever. But Jem’s father hurts him in a way he never expected by taking him away from her.
Now eighteen, scarred inside and out, Jem trusts no one and has worked hard to ensure he'll never be helpless again. But then he runs into his angel. The only problem is she doesn’t recognize him. Jem needs her to remember him, to show him that their time together meant to her what it did to him. For once in his life he wants to have mattered to someone, to her.
Devon is attracted to the muscular, tattooed, pierced hottie standing by the pub quiz machine. That is, until he punches a guy clean across the bar for daring to touch him. She’s had her fill of violent men and intends to avoid this one at all costs.
This is a standalone, new adult contemporary romance. Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
Growing up, all Jem knew was hatred and the pain from his father's fists. Taunted by the kids at school, he was alone, until a girl with carrot coloured hair sat next to him.
She smiled.
She listened.
She cared.
She was his angel, and he knew he’d love her forever. But Jem’s father hurts him in a way he never expected by taking him away from her.
Now eighteen, scarred inside and out, Jem trusts no one and has worked hard to ensure he'll never be helpless again. But then he runs into his angel. The only problem is she doesn’t recognize him. Jem needs her to remember him, to show him that their time together meant to her what it did to him. For once in his life he wants to have mattered to someone, to her.
Devon is attracted to the muscular, tattooed, pierced hottie standing by the pub quiz machine. That is, until he punches a guy clean across the bar for daring to touch him. She’s had her fill of violent men and intends to avoid this one at all costs.
This is a standalone, new adult contemporary romance. Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2015
10 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Abbott
6 books236 followersMichelle Abbott lives in the UK and hates describing herself in 3rd person.
She's a self-published author of new adult romance, and likes to write about heroes who begin as the underdog and are protective of their girl.
She's an avid reader of romance, is addicted to coffee and loves wine and chocolate, so yeah, not the most healthy eating and drinking habits :-) She spends way too much time online when she should be writing. She collects teddy bears and occasionally knits a couple of rows on a sweater she started years ago, which she may eventually finish in time to wear for her funeral :-)
She's a self-published author of new adult romance, and likes to write about heroes who begin as the underdog and are protective of their girl.
She's an avid reader of romance, is addicted to coffee and loves wine and chocolate, so yeah, not the most healthy eating and drinking habits :-) She spends way too much time online when she should be writing. She collects teddy bears and occasionally knits a couple of rows on a sweater she started years ago, which she may eventually finish in time to wear for her funeral :-)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 28, 2017
Michelle Abbott is giving away a $10 Gift card to Introduce you to KAI!
Intl where allowed - Ends Sept 8, 2017
Settle in, keep some tissues close, rein in your temper and get ready for Jem by Michelle Abbott. Your emotions will be carved up, you will feel frustration and then understanding as some things are necessary for all of the wrong reasons as one damaged and scarred young man re-connects with his childhood angel, the little girl he vowed to love forever. That was years ago, before they were torn apart, but Jem remembers Devon, who loved him, took care of him and was his best and only friend in a world otherwise filled with punches and slaps, yelling and brutality. Devon may have gone out of his life, but his father and brother’s brutality never did. Vowing never to be helpless and to always stand up for others, Jem is no longer that little boy, he is powerful, muscular and uses tattoos to cover his scars. Devon is now a mother, but is she single? Why doesn’t she recognize the scary looking behemoth as her little Jem? Like the child he once was, he will not tell her who he is, he NEEDS to be recognized.
Devon’s life didn’t go as she had hoped, but she wouldn’t’ trade her son for anything a she hides out from the man who has used her as a punching bag, her little boy’s father. Men are suspect in her eyes, few can be trusted and until the tattooed guy flew into a rage and pummeled another, she felt a pull to him, something she could not pinpoint. Will this man’s rage become her saving grace or will he become just one more untrustworthy man, keeping secrets through lies of omission?
Michelle Abbott has painted a fresh face on the world of angst and pain-filled romance through her endearing portrayal of both of her main characters. She has colored Jem as a man hiding his pain behind his muscles and tats, an overgrown boy scout of sorts. His heart is on his sleeve for all to see, but his temper boils just below the surface. Devon, while having her own demons to deal with is the stronger of the two in so many ways. The supporting characters? Get ready to chuckle at their banter, enjoy their antics and applaud their protectiveness for Devon. Ms Abbott has written pure dark magic with each stroke of her pen a she awakens your emotions to the lives of these characters and their situations. A little on the dark side, but well-balanced by the touches of humor, this one had me from start to finish. Don’t expect a fast and frenzied pace, expect to be able to savor this tale without having to muck through unnecessary pages. Quick, thought-provoking and just plain good writing!
Publication Date: March 1, 2015
Publisher: Michelle Abbott
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 168 pages
Available from: Amazon
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Intl where allowed - Ends Sept 8, 2017
Settle in, keep some tissues close, rein in your temper and get ready for Jem by Michelle Abbott. Your emotions will be carved up, you will feel frustration and then understanding as some things are necessary for all of the wrong reasons as one damaged and scarred young man re-connects with his childhood angel, the little girl he vowed to love forever. That was years ago, before they were torn apart, but Jem remembers Devon, who loved him, took care of him and was his best and only friend in a world otherwise filled with punches and slaps, yelling and brutality. Devon may have gone out of his life, but his father and brother’s brutality never did. Vowing never to be helpless and to always stand up for others, Jem is no longer that little boy, he is powerful, muscular and uses tattoos to cover his scars. Devon is now a mother, but is she single? Why doesn’t she recognize the scary looking behemoth as her little Jem? Like the child he once was, he will not tell her who he is, he NEEDS to be recognized.
Devon’s life didn’t go as she had hoped, but she wouldn’t’ trade her son for anything a she hides out from the man who has used her as a punching bag, her little boy’s father. Men are suspect in her eyes, few can be trusted and until the tattooed guy flew into a rage and pummeled another, she felt a pull to him, something she could not pinpoint. Will this man’s rage become her saving grace or will he become just one more untrustworthy man, keeping secrets through lies of omission?
Michelle Abbott has painted a fresh face on the world of angst and pain-filled romance through her endearing portrayal of both of her main characters. She has colored Jem as a man hiding his pain behind his muscles and tats, an overgrown boy scout of sorts. His heart is on his sleeve for all to see, but his temper boils just below the surface. Devon, while having her own demons to deal with is the stronger of the two in so many ways. The supporting characters? Get ready to chuckle at their banter, enjoy their antics and applaud their protectiveness for Devon. Ms Abbott has written pure dark magic with each stroke of her pen a she awakens your emotions to the lives of these characters and their situations. A little on the dark side, but well-balanced by the touches of humor, this one had me from start to finish. Don’t expect a fast and frenzied pace, expect to be able to savor this tale without having to muck through unnecessary pages. Quick, thought-provoking and just plain good writing!
Publication Date: March 1, 2015
Publisher: Michelle Abbott
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 168 pages
Available from: Amazon
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
March 21, 2015
Review to follow...
Overall an intriguing storyline and plot.
Overall an intriguing storyline and plot.
March 6, 2015
Probably more like 2.5 stars but I rounded up. This one had a lot of promise, the general storyline was what drew me. The whole childhood friends separated and then coming back together. But I just didn't like the way it was executed. Everything was pretty rushed and I couldn't really connect to the characters. It just needed to be flushed out a bit and it might have been a 4 star read but as it is, it just didn't work for me.
August 30, 2017
3 stars!
I received an arc of Jem by Michelle Abbott for an honest review. When I read the synopsis of Jem I was so excited. It's definitely my kind of book. Who doesn't love a second chance romance with a broken bad boy?? It's has a great storyline with some colorful characters. Each of them bringing something unique to enhance the plot. As I read, I felt the execution was off. Some of the issues I observed were choppy dialogue, short sentences and abrupt transitions from scene to scene. All of which made it lose its flow and difficult to read. It had potential to be a lot stronger, darker and more emotional. However, it did hold my attention and I continued to want more. I read it rather quickly within two days. It's a sweet story with some angst.
We first meet 7 year old Devon and 4 year old Jem. Who are best friends. Devon is actually Jem's only friend. She shows him a love he's never known. He's bullied in school and beaten at home. When Devon discovers his bruises, she confesses to her mother. The result of her actions, Jem and his family vanish. Never to be seen again. Both children are devastated and often wonder where the other one is.... Neither one truly getting over their separation. Fast forward to 14 years later, they are face to face again... Devon does not recognize Jem and he does not divulge who he is. Will she see beyond the bad boy he portrays and find the sweet boy she remembers? As the story unfolds, we learn more about the demons the plague them. While they are getting to know one another, there are many misunderstandings and insecurities. I did enjoy the characters, but it took me a while to connect to them. Once I did become invested, I was rooting for them to get their HEA.
I received an arc of Jem by Michelle Abbott for an honest review. When I read the synopsis of Jem I was so excited. It's definitely my kind of book. Who doesn't love a second chance romance with a broken bad boy?? It's has a great storyline with some colorful characters. Each of them bringing something unique to enhance the plot. As I read, I felt the execution was off. Some of the issues I observed were choppy dialogue, short sentences and abrupt transitions from scene to scene. All of which made it lose its flow and difficult to read. It had potential to be a lot stronger, darker and more emotional. However, it did hold my attention and I continued to want more. I read it rather quickly within two days. It's a sweet story with some angst.
We first meet 7 year old Devon and 4 year old Jem. Who are best friends. Devon is actually Jem's only friend. She shows him a love he's never known. He's bullied in school and beaten at home. When Devon discovers his bruises, she confesses to her mother. The result of her actions, Jem and his family vanish. Never to be seen again. Both children are devastated and often wonder where the other one is.... Neither one truly getting over their separation. Fast forward to 14 years later, they are face to face again... Devon does not recognize Jem and he does not divulge who he is. Will she see beyond the bad boy he portrays and find the sweet boy she remembers? As the story unfolds, we learn more about the demons the plague them. While they are getting to know one another, there are many misunderstandings and insecurities. I did enjoy the characters, but it took me a while to connect to them. Once I did become invested, I was rooting for them to get their HEA.
November 22, 2015
After reading the description, I was excited to read this book. I wasn't disappointed. I thought I might be in the very beginning, though. The interaction between the kids felt somewhat unrealistic and contrived. At that point it felt like a 4-star read; it held my interest and kept me reading, but had me slightly distracted with details that didn't feel quite right. Then, within no time, the kids grew up and it blossomed - no, it exploded - into a 6-star read, holding me glued to the pages and uninterested in anything else going on around me until the last delicious page had been devoured. I typically don't care for books that are written in 1st person, especially when it switches between 2 different characters. That didn't bother me at all in this case. The transitions were smooth, and - more importantly - I hardly put the book down from the time I picked it up, so there was no distraction of forgetting "who I had been" when I last read. I particularly liked how I got the happily-ever-after I craved, but it wasn't all "sticky-sweet Disney perfection". Very real issues of abuse (including domestic, child, and sexual) are exposed, along with the wake of turmoil they leave in their path. Jem faces some pretty dark demons from his youth and Devon carries some pretty serious luggage from her more recent past. They are left with some scars (both inside and out), but love transcends. As a side note, I was pleasantly surprised with the robust secondary characters (gay neighbors trying to keep their relationship strong and a roommate with a hefty load of struggles weighing her down). Like I said - I couldn't put it down. I do believe I could use a nap now, having gotten next to no sleep last night. Thanks for a very entertaining read!
March 8, 2015
This book was received in exchange for an honest review.
No one wants to be four year old Jem’s friend, they call him names and accuse him of having the lurgy. When those kids look at Jem all they see is a flea ridden skip rat – not seven year old Devon. Devon sees a sweet little boy that only wants to be loved. When Devon discovers bruises and scars all over Jem’s tiny body, she confides in her mother with disasterous consequences. Jem’s family disappears and Devon never see’s him again.
Fourteen years later, Devon is on the run from her abusive boyfriend who is also the father of her three year old son. When she arrives in a small English seaside town, she promptly makes friends with her neighbors who often take her out. On one visit to the pub, Devon watches as an insanely attractive tattooed man beats the crap out of someone—just for touching him.
Jem recognizes Devon the minute he sets eyes on her—she was the only good memory he had of his childhood and her image is forever burned into his brain. As Jem tries to become closer to Devon, he struggles to understand how she could’ve forgotten him. Devon is completely unaware of Jem’s true identity, but when he saves her from her abusive ex one night, she welcomes him into her arms.
When I read the blurb for this book, I got really excited as it sounded just the sort of thing I like. It’s told from first person points of view of both Jem and Devon and I absolutely adore this kind of story telling, especially with the second chance romance aspect.
The premise sounded fantastic; sadly it didn’t live up to my expectations. The backbone of the plot is so good and it could have been wonderful, but jumpy dialogue and monotonous writing held it back. There were blocks of text where every sentence began in ‘I’ which really distracted me. This book could’ve been seeped in emotion and feelings and heartbreaking inner thought. Unfortunately, even though we get first person accounts, we don’t get very much feeling. When I’m reading a book I like to exist within the story, but I felt like an outsider peering in, never getting a true sense of how the characters were feeling physically or emotionally. I couldn’t connect to either characters and I really, really wanted to.
70% of the way in to the book, Devon still hasn’t asked Jem his name—this is despite interacting with him several times, Jem rescuing her from her ex and Devon arranging a date with him, yet when she meets his roommate, she asks her what her name is within minutes.
The cover also has me a little confused. In the book, Jem is covered in tattoos, some of which are described in detail. There’s even a conversation about how he wouldn’t be able to fit more tattoos on his arms, yet one glance at the cover completely contradicts this.
Such a damn shame. As much as I wanted to love this book, I couldn’t and it saddens me. 2/5
No one wants to be four year old Jem’s friend, they call him names and accuse him of having the lurgy. When those kids look at Jem all they see is a flea ridden skip rat – not seven year old Devon. Devon sees a sweet little boy that only wants to be loved. When Devon discovers bruises and scars all over Jem’s tiny body, she confides in her mother with disasterous consequences. Jem’s family disappears and Devon never see’s him again.
Fourteen years later, Devon is on the run from her abusive boyfriend who is also the father of her three year old son. When she arrives in a small English seaside town, she promptly makes friends with her neighbors who often take her out. On one visit to the pub, Devon watches as an insanely attractive tattooed man beats the crap out of someone—just for touching him.
Jem recognizes Devon the minute he sets eyes on her—she was the only good memory he had of his childhood and her image is forever burned into his brain. As Jem tries to become closer to Devon, he struggles to understand how she could’ve forgotten him. Devon is completely unaware of Jem’s true identity, but when he saves her from her abusive ex one night, she welcomes him into her arms.
When I read the blurb for this book, I got really excited as it sounded just the sort of thing I like. It’s told from first person points of view of both Jem and Devon and I absolutely adore this kind of story telling, especially with the second chance romance aspect.
The premise sounded fantastic; sadly it didn’t live up to my expectations. The backbone of the plot is so good and it could have been wonderful, but jumpy dialogue and monotonous writing held it back. There were blocks of text where every sentence began in ‘I’ which really distracted me. This book could’ve been seeped in emotion and feelings and heartbreaking inner thought. Unfortunately, even though we get first person accounts, we don’t get very much feeling. When I’m reading a book I like to exist within the story, but I felt like an outsider peering in, never getting a true sense of how the characters were feeling physically or emotionally. I couldn’t connect to either characters and I really, really wanted to.
70% of the way in to the book, Devon still hasn’t asked Jem his name—this is despite interacting with him several times, Jem rescuing her from her ex and Devon arranging a date with him, yet when she meets his roommate, she asks her what her name is within minutes.
The cover also has me a little confused. In the book, Jem is covered in tattoos, some of which are described in detail. There’s even a conversation about how he wouldn’t be able to fit more tattoos on his arms, yet one glance at the cover completely contradicts this.
Such a damn shame. As much as I wanted to love this book, I couldn’t and it saddens me. 2/5
October 1, 2015
This is an interesting character story; there are two main characters Jem (the title character) and Devon. Additional there are (basically) four secondary ones in Devon's son, her ex, and her two neighbors.
The story has its setup in the past (so you have the foundation) when Jem and Devon are young. The friendship is as solid as can be (when kids are kids) but at the hands of parental abuse (of Jem) it becomes complex. The story then brings you to "the present".
Jem is employed but sort of stalled in his life (basically set in his routine, such as it is) and Devon has recently relocated (to the same area where Jem now lives) with her small child in tow.
During a chance meeting, Jem recognizes Devon but she does not recognize him, despite the fact that she remembers fondly and regularly the little boy that meant so much to her from when she was young.
As with all "grown up" things, life gets in the way - Jem's aggressiveness, a misunderstanding, Jem's distrust with his emotions and feelings, Devon's mistrust of men, the ex coming back into the picture, and other things, all hamper the situation.
Will they be able to bridge the gap that time and situation have brought or is it too little, too late?
I really liked the premise of the story and the author's style; it allowed for POV changing (and it was easy to follow) and she gave you enough narrative details to set a stage but in a manner that allowed your own imagination to fill in the blanks the way your own mind sees fit (big plus for me).
Overall, a very solid “recommend” for anyone that enjoys a "people" story and one where peoples' demons must be defeated in order for them to continue on as individuals, with, or without, the people that matter the most to them in their lives.
I recommend "Jem" by Michelle Abbott
* * * * Four Stars (out of five)
The story has its setup in the past (so you have the foundation) when Jem and Devon are young. The friendship is as solid as can be (when kids are kids) but at the hands of parental abuse (of Jem) it becomes complex. The story then brings you to "the present".
Jem is employed but sort of stalled in his life (basically set in his routine, such as it is) and Devon has recently relocated (to the same area where Jem now lives) with her small child in tow.
During a chance meeting, Jem recognizes Devon but she does not recognize him, despite the fact that she remembers fondly and regularly the little boy that meant so much to her from when she was young.
As with all "grown up" things, life gets in the way - Jem's aggressiveness, a misunderstanding, Jem's distrust with his emotions and feelings, Devon's mistrust of men, the ex coming back into the picture, and other things, all hamper the situation.
Will they be able to bridge the gap that time and situation have brought or is it too little, too late?
I really liked the premise of the story and the author's style; it allowed for POV changing (and it was easy to follow) and she gave you enough narrative details to set a stage but in a manner that allowed your own imagination to fill in the blanks the way your own mind sees fit (big plus for me).
Overall, a very solid “recommend” for anyone that enjoys a "people" story and one where peoples' demons must be defeated in order for them to continue on as individuals, with, or without, the people that matter the most to them in their lives.
I recommend "Jem" by Michelle Abbott
* * * * Four Stars (out of five)
April 11, 2015
I LOVE IT
I JUST LOVE IT
I WANT MORE
PLEASE
Yep that ladies and gentlemen was my initial review of this book.
Jem was a battered child during his childhood and was bullied in school. But that change when he met Devon who showed him light and fun and love. Devon had a wonderful childhood and family when she met Jem. Since then she cared and loved Jem until they became best of friends. Until one day they were separated and never said goodbye to each other.
Now all grown up, Devon was attracted to this unknown guy that did the uneventful and labelled him as bad news. Jem who now left his past was living a solitary life until he met this red head. Devon though knew that this guy was bad was still attracted to him and it got more intense when he comes along her life, helping her with her problem and just being there for her. Jem knew it was Devon from the start but was hurt when she forgot who he was. But that didn't stop him from coming after her and being there for her like she was for him during their childhood years. This is one reunion that is worth fighting for.
I love Jem and how he is ready to do everything for Devon. I am just a avid fan of stories like these.
Reading this book was a bit of a setback for me because I was used to the guy being older and the girl being younger (Yeah I am that choosy). But other than that the story was amazing!
I JUST LOVE IT
I WANT MORE
PLEASE
Yep that ladies and gentlemen was my initial review of this book.
Jem was a battered child during his childhood and was bullied in school. But that change when he met Devon who showed him light and fun and love. Devon had a wonderful childhood and family when she met Jem. Since then she cared and loved Jem until they became best of friends. Until one day they were separated and never said goodbye to each other.
Now all grown up, Devon was attracted to this unknown guy that did the uneventful and labelled him as bad news. Jem who now left his past was living a solitary life until he met this red head. Devon though knew that this guy was bad was still attracted to him and it got more intense when he comes along her life, helping her with her problem and just being there for her. Jem knew it was Devon from the start but was hurt when she forgot who he was. But that didn't stop him from coming after her and being there for her like she was for him during their childhood years. This is one reunion that is worth fighting for.
I love Jem and how he is ready to do everything for Devon. I am just a avid fan of stories like these.
Reading this book was a bit of a setback for me because I was used to the guy being older and the girl being younger (Yeah I am that choosy). But other than that the story was amazing!
March 8, 2015
JEM by Michelle Abbott was a really good read.
I loved that miss Abbott showed us the relationship that Jem and Devon had as kids. I felt really bad for Jem. I really think Devon's mom should have done a little more. I know it really wasn't her business... but just calling child protective services wasn't enough. I think she should have maybe made sure that Jem was taken from the house.
I loved seeing Jem and Devon getting to know each other much better as adults. Although Devon didn't know who Jem was, I though it was a really good thing for their relationship. I thought it was so sweet how protective Jem was towards Luke. At every turn he was doing something nice for Luke, and just looking out for him.
Quinn and Pearce were some awesome characters. They were really great friends for Devon. Quinn was definitely one of my favorite characters. He was also so protective of Devon and Luke, and just all around a great guy.
I hope miss Abbott creates a book for some of the other character in the book. I would love to read more. I really enjoyed this book, and as always, I am excited to read more.
I loved that miss Abbott showed us the relationship that Jem and Devon had as kids. I felt really bad for Jem. I really think Devon's mom should have done a little more. I know it really wasn't her business... but just calling child protective services wasn't enough. I think she should have maybe made sure that Jem was taken from the house.
I loved seeing Jem and Devon getting to know each other much better as adults. Although Devon didn't know who Jem was, I though it was a really good thing for their relationship. I thought it was so sweet how protective Jem was towards Luke. At every turn he was doing something nice for Luke, and just looking out for him.
Quinn and Pearce were some awesome characters. They were really great friends for Devon. Quinn was definitely one of my favorite characters. He was also so protective of Devon and Luke, and just all around a great guy.
I hope miss Abbott creates a book for some of the other character in the book. I would love to read more. I really enjoyed this book, and as always, I am excited to read more.
July 28, 2015
I loved it!
Jem's just 4 years old when he realize that he's in love with his best friend, Devon. He loves her deeply without her knowing it. With her, Jem is able to forget about is sucky life and enjoy being a kid. But when reality crashes in, Jem's forced to leave Devon. Being a girl that experienced hard life, now old and mature, Devon's leaving his sorry-a$$ husband. Alone and only live with his son, Devon's attracted to this tattooed bad boy but she knew better. She couldn't handle another bad boy. But little did she know that the bad boy is Jem, watching her from afar, ready to take what's his..
It's a bit sloppy, the writing, but I actually in love with Jem right away. Life didn't treat him good yet he manage to be good guy in disguise. He's so sweet especially when he realize he met Devon years later. Ugh, I want my own Jem!
Overall, great reading. It's a bit shorter than I expect it but I love that there's no cliffhanger or awful plot twist! Look forward to read more from Michelle Abbott! <3
Jem's just 4 years old when he realize that he's in love with his best friend, Devon. He loves her deeply without her knowing it. With her, Jem is able to forget about is sucky life and enjoy being a kid. But when reality crashes in, Jem's forced to leave Devon. Being a girl that experienced hard life, now old and mature, Devon's leaving his sorry-a$$ husband. Alone and only live with his son, Devon's attracted to this tattooed bad boy but she knew better. She couldn't handle another bad boy. But little did she know that the bad boy is Jem, watching her from afar, ready to take what's his..
It's a bit sloppy, the writing, but I actually in love with Jem right away. Life didn't treat him good yet he manage to be good guy in disguise. He's so sweet especially when he realize he met Devon years later. Ugh, I want my own Jem!
Overall, great reading. It's a bit shorter than I expect it but I love that there's no cliffhanger or awful plot twist! Look forward to read more from Michelle Abbott! <3
March 13, 2015
Devon is a strong single mother that has escaped a violent relationship and fiercely misses her childhood best friend, that disappeared 14 years ago.
Jem is emotionally messed up and incredibly hot, but is in love with his childhood best friend, whom he was taken away from 14 years ago.
Then he sees her on the beach, but he doesn't recognise him.
What lengths will he go to, to win her back?
'It would have been a whole lot easier to forget her if she hadn't been the best thing in my life.'
I loved this book, it was amazing. I devoured it in one sitting. Once I started reading I couldn't stop and fell straight into the story. It made me laugh, and cry.
I loved the characters and really connected with them.
I thought this book was very well written and will be recommending it to all my fellow readers.
Jem is emotionally messed up and incredibly hot, but is in love with his childhood best friend, whom he was taken away from 14 years ago.
Then he sees her on the beach, but he doesn't recognise him.
What lengths will he go to, to win her back?
'It would have been a whole lot easier to forget her if she hadn't been the best thing in my life.'
I loved this book, it was amazing. I devoured it in one sitting. Once I started reading I couldn't stop and fell straight into the story. It made me laugh, and cry.
I loved the characters and really connected with them.
I thought this book was very well written and will be recommending it to all my fellow readers.
July 13, 2015
Michelle Abbot's Jem is one of my favorite story. This is due primarily to the way the author introduces us to Jem and Devon. We meet them when they are children and we are shown, not told, the events surrounding the birth of their friendship. As children, they both possess an apparent vulnerability and a capacity for loving.
Read my full review of this book on my blog.
JEM by Michelle Abbott
If you enjoy engaging New Adult Romance, read this book.
March 13, 2015
Received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. Tears from start to finish. Totally loved this book. I love how she writes about an underdog fighting his way to the top to protect his girl.
The storyline gripped me from the off. I enjoyed reading about how both leads over came problems in their lives to be the people they are. Totally recommend this book to everyone
Wow. Tears from start to finish. Totally loved this book. I love how she writes about an underdog fighting his way to the top to protect his girl.
The storyline gripped me from the off. I enjoyed reading about how both leads over came problems in their lives to be the people they are. Totally recommend this book to everyone
September 17, 2015
I read this story in one day. I had to find out how Devon and Jem's story turned out. The story dealt with the issues of abuse and the effects of it on the characters in a real way. I sympathized with Jem and found myself rooting for him through out the story. This is the first book I've read by this author and look forward to reading more.
March 4, 2015
a sweet story. I would have liked the characters a little more fleshed out but a feel good story none the less
November 22, 2015
2.75 estrellas
Historia corta y rápida para pasar el día leyendo. Ni mucho mas ni mucho menos.
Historia corta y rápida para pasar el día leyendo. Ni mucho mas ni mucho menos.
June 7, 2015
3.25 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 1, 2015
Two injured, stubborn souls meet unexpectedly. Will they save each other from their demons or have they been too damaged for too long to see past the pain?
Growing up, all Jem knew was hatred and the pain from his father's fists. Taunted by the kids at school, he was alone, until a girl with carrot coloured hair sat next to him.
She smiled.
She listened.
She cared.
She was his angel, and he knew he’d love her forever. But Jem’s father hurts him in a way he never expected by taking him away from her.
Now eighteen, scarred inside and out, Jem trusts no one and has worked hard to ensure he'll never be helpless again. But then he runs into his angel. The only problem is she doesn’t recognize him. Jem needs her to remember him, to show him that their time together meant to her what it did to him. For once in his life he wants to have mattered to someone, to her.
Devon is attracted to the muscular, tattooed, pierced hottie standing by the pub quiz machine. That is, until he punches a guy clean across the bar for daring to touch him. She’s had her fill of violent men and intends to avoid this one at all costs.
This is a standalone, new adult contemporary romance. Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.25 stars--JEM is a contemporary, new adult storyline focusing on a second chance for two people whose lives have been destroyed by abuse. Fourteen years earlier Devon, then seven years old, and Jem, three years younger were torn apart when Jem’s father had been reported to children’s services. Jem and his family disappeared and Devon has never stopped loving the little boy who stole her heart. Fast forward to present day wherein Devon is now a single parent, trying to escape the abuse of her ex boyfriend. Meeting the ‘dark and dangerous’ stranger set into motion a series of events that culminates in the realization that the man she has befriended was once the little boy she cannot forget.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Jem and Devon) JEM is a storyline about abuse, neglect, and moving forward. But it is also a story about love between two children whose lives went in different directions but came together at the same intersections of abuse and hate. JEM is a difficult read because of the amount of violence but also because the heroine is unable to and unwilling to protect herself from an abusive ex. The battered spouse syndrome was all too readily apparent in our storyline heroine as she believes escape and retribution are impossible. Refusing to contact law enforcement added to the long list of signs. The lasting affects of the abuse inflicted on Jem were heartbreaking and filled with pain.
I did have some issues with the quality of the writing; the uneven flow of the text and conversations; there were also some issues with exposition and narrative summary-at times I felt I was reading a journal. The ‘telling’ of the story left me disconnected from the characters although their history of abuse was heartbreaking. JEM
Copy supplied by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 1, 2015
Two injured, stubborn souls meet unexpectedly. Will they save each other from their demons or have they been too damaged for too long to see past the pain?
Growing up, all Jem knew was hatred and the pain from his father's fists. Taunted by the kids at school, he was alone, until a girl with carrot coloured hair sat next to him.
She smiled.
She listened.
She cared.
She was his angel, and he knew he’d love her forever. But Jem’s father hurts him in a way he never expected by taking him away from her.
Now eighteen, scarred inside and out, Jem trusts no one and has worked hard to ensure he'll never be helpless again. But then he runs into his angel. The only problem is she doesn’t recognize him. Jem needs her to remember him, to show him that their time together meant to her what it did to him. For once in his life he wants to have mattered to someone, to her.
Devon is attracted to the muscular, tattooed, pierced hottie standing by the pub quiz machine. That is, until he punches a guy clean across the bar for daring to touch him. She’s had her fill of violent men and intends to avoid this one at all costs.
This is a standalone, new adult contemporary romance. Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.25 stars--JEM is a contemporary, new adult storyline focusing on a second chance for two people whose lives have been destroyed by abuse. Fourteen years earlier Devon, then seven years old, and Jem, three years younger were torn apart when Jem’s father had been reported to children’s services. Jem and his family disappeared and Devon has never stopped loving the little boy who stole her heart. Fast forward to present day wherein Devon is now a single parent, trying to escape the abuse of her ex boyfriend. Meeting the ‘dark and dangerous’ stranger set into motion a series of events that culminates in the realization that the man she has befriended was once the little boy she cannot forget.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Jem and Devon) JEM is a storyline about abuse, neglect, and moving forward. But it is also a story about love between two children whose lives went in different directions but came together at the same intersections of abuse and hate. JEM is a difficult read because of the amount of violence but also because the heroine is unable to and unwilling to protect herself from an abusive ex. The battered spouse syndrome was all too readily apparent in our storyline heroine as she believes escape and retribution are impossible. Refusing to contact law enforcement added to the long list of signs. The lasting affects of the abuse inflicted on Jem were heartbreaking and filled with pain.
I did have some issues with the quality of the writing; the uneven flow of the text and conversations; there were also some issues with exposition and narrative summary-at times I felt I was reading a journal. The ‘telling’ of the story left me disconnected from the characters although their history of abuse was heartbreaking. JEM
Copy supplied by the author.
March 17, 2015
3.5 stars........This was a sweet read. It dealt with a H/h who both had had a difficult time in life. The prologue was really sweet when they were best friends as children. You can see why Jem never forgot Devon and her family, who provided the only love he ever really received in his 18 years.
They are split up at the age of 4 and 7 and meet again, 14 years later, at age 18 and 21.
Unusually in this story Jem, the H, is the younger person. Jem has suffered years of abuse and has lived without family since age 16. He is damaged, his self esteem is virtually non existent.
So although his inner dialogue dwells on these feelings of unworthiness I can understand this. He is also only 18 and I think he his portrayed as his age whereas often the H's are treated as more mature in romance books.
So I can see how he feels hurt by Devon's seeming rejection and lack of recognition. He recognises her immediately.
Devon is fleeing an abusive relationship with her 3 year old son. This was also portrayed well.
I can understand her initial rejection of Jem and her protectiveness of her son.
I do though think the dialogue could be a little more intense and deep though, given the subject matter and their reaction to each other. There was possibly a little too much internal dialogue and less one on one between the H/h, which meant the story was just a little too stagnant in places. I don't know, in some ways I can understand Jem internalising his emotions as he had no choice through his life. I appreciated the event in the pub where he reacted to being touched, it seemed realistic. It was also the catalyst to the h trying to avoid him. Having said that when they did get together it was sexy and enjoyable. I also have to say I was surprised that Devon never asked Jem's name for a good portion of the book. Considering the author found a good way around this issue when she finally did ask, I think she should have asked earlier, because this did concern me whilst reading.
I think I would have given an extra star if the dialogue and been a little smoother in places, but it was a good read and I would read more by this author.
They are split up at the age of 4 and 7 and meet again, 14 years later, at age 18 and 21.
Unusually in this story Jem, the H, is the younger person. Jem has suffered years of abuse and has lived without family since age 16. He is damaged, his self esteem is virtually non existent.
So although his inner dialogue dwells on these feelings of unworthiness I can understand this. He is also only 18 and I think he his portrayed as his age whereas often the H's are treated as more mature in romance books.
So I can see how he feels hurt by Devon's seeming rejection and lack of recognition. He recognises her immediately.
Devon is fleeing an abusive relationship with her 3 year old son. This was also portrayed well.
I can understand her initial rejection of Jem and her protectiveness of her son.
I do though think the dialogue could be a little more intense and deep though, given the subject matter and their reaction to each other. There was possibly a little too much internal dialogue and less one on one between the H/h, which meant the story was just a little too stagnant in places. I don't know, in some ways I can understand Jem internalising his emotions as he had no choice through his life. I appreciated the event in the pub where he reacted to being touched, it seemed realistic. It was also the catalyst to the h trying to avoid him. Having said that when they did get together it was sexy and enjoyable. I also have to say I was surprised that Devon never asked Jem's name for a good portion of the book. Considering the author found a good way around this issue when she finally did ask, I think she should have asked earlier, because this did concern me whilst reading.
I think I would have given an extra star if the dialogue and been a little smoother in places, but it was a good read and I would read more by this author.
September 13, 2016
The scars of abuse run deep from childhood into adulthood. Jem has those deep scars that he struggles to hide behind fierce anger, violence and brute strength. Never again would he take any abuse from anyone.
He’s had one true friend in life, Devon, whom he called 'Angel'. She held him and comforted him when he cried or was afraid. She was four years his senior and to a four-year-old who knew nothing but abuse, she was truly that angel.
When he was fourteen years old, he had a red-headed angel tattooed on his arm to always remember her by.
How could he know she would show up in the oceanside town where he lived? And what a disappointment that she didn't recognize him? In fact, she seemed afraid of the violence she saw him administer. But, somehow he knew that his angel would eventually recognize and love him again.
This is a romance of the deepest kind - from childhood into adulthood. When Devon, Jem's angel, shows up in the town where he lives, running from an abusive boyfriend, fate had to throw them together. Both are broken in their own ways and desperately need each other without knowing it.
I loved this story and couldn't stop reading until I reached the end. I couldn't wait to turn the next page to see what happened next. Of course, I knew they would eventually wind up together, sharing the same love they'd shared as children, but the plot twists along the way kept me reading. This is a great love story from Michelle Abbott and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a character driven story
He’s had one true friend in life, Devon, whom he called 'Angel'. She held him and comforted him when he cried or was afraid. She was four years his senior and to a four-year-old who knew nothing but abuse, she was truly that angel.
When he was fourteen years old, he had a red-headed angel tattooed on his arm to always remember her by.
How could he know she would show up in the oceanside town where he lived? And what a disappointment that she didn't recognize him? In fact, she seemed afraid of the violence she saw him administer. But, somehow he knew that his angel would eventually recognize and love him again.
This is a romance of the deepest kind - from childhood into adulthood. When Devon, Jem's angel, shows up in the town where he lives, running from an abusive boyfriend, fate had to throw them together. Both are broken in their own ways and desperately need each other without knowing it.
I loved this story and couldn't stop reading until I reached the end. I couldn't wait to turn the next page to see what happened next. Of course, I knew they would eventually wind up together, sharing the same love they'd shared as children, but the plot twists along the way kept me reading. This is a great love story from Michelle Abbott and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a character driven story
September 4, 2015
This is a delicate, and yet, beautiful love story. It is always sad when good people end up with complete swine. This Connor of a man, and bullies like him find their strength only in women, people they perceive as weak, on whom they take out their frustration. You never see them flexing their muscles with men. Cowards, who use women as punching bags.
That said, I cannot understand women who allow themselves to be emasculated to the point of losing their worth as human beings. Devon is an intelligent woman, who, for reasons best known to her allowed a common boy friend to bully her into submission. Like most abused women, she finds herself trapped in this abusive relationship. Even when she found ways of escape, she still invited Connor back into her life. What was she thinking? That a bully can be redeemed?
What a God sent Jem turned out to be. He too knew what it was to be a victim, and after a childhood experience that left him almost damaged, he turned his fear into his strength, and developed a formidable power that made him a threat to his foes, and a protector to his loved ones.
I know that in writing stories, we are told to show, and not tell. The showing in this story was so relentless, it made the flow very choppy. Otherwise, I enjoyed the read. I couldn’t put it down.
That said, I cannot understand women who allow themselves to be emasculated to the point of losing their worth as human beings. Devon is an intelligent woman, who, for reasons best known to her allowed a common boy friend to bully her into submission. Like most abused women, she finds herself trapped in this abusive relationship. Even when she found ways of escape, she still invited Connor back into her life. What was she thinking? That a bully can be redeemed?
What a God sent Jem turned out to be. He too knew what it was to be a victim, and after a childhood experience that left him almost damaged, he turned his fear into his strength, and developed a formidable power that made him a threat to his foes, and a protector to his loved ones.
I know that in writing stories, we are told to show, and not tell. The showing in this story was so relentless, it made the flow very choppy. Otherwise, I enjoyed the read. I couldn’t put it down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2015
I was given a copy for an honest review.
We meet Jem and Devon as young children on vacation with Devons family. We soon learn that Jem lives a life we can not even imagine. Devon tries to help him by telling her parents, which leads to Jem and his family moving away.
Years later and due to some tough situations Devon finds herself and her 3 year old son in a new town, hiding. It is by coincidence she runs into Jem, who she doesnt realize its.him, but he knows its his "angel". Will they be reunited or has their past paved a path of just hurt and devistation?
I really enjoyed this book. The plot was great and the concept was there. The only thing was how quickly Devon jumped to conclussions got to me. I know her verves were everywhere, but it put me off of her. I look foward to what Michelle has next!
We meet Jem and Devon as young children on vacation with Devons family. We soon learn that Jem lives a life we can not even imagine. Devon tries to help him by telling her parents, which leads to Jem and his family moving away.
Years later and due to some tough situations Devon finds herself and her 3 year old son in a new town, hiding. It is by coincidence she runs into Jem, who she doesnt realize its.him, but he knows its his "angel". Will they be reunited or has their past paved a path of just hurt and devistation?
I really enjoyed this book. The plot was great and the concept was there. The only thing was how quickly Devon jumped to conclussions got to me. I know her verves were everywhere, but it put me off of her. I look foward to what Michelle has next!
March 8, 2015
A very lovely little read, and I'm glad to say that this story has an HEA :)
Devon befriends a little boy at school who is bullied and teased, he's younger than her, but it doesn't matter.
Jem is the little boy who idolises Devon who looks after him, but unfortunately they are separated when Jem's dad (a bully and all round not nice guy) moves them to avoid child services...
They meet years later, and this is the story :)
Devon befriends a little boy at school who is bullied and teased, he's younger than her, but it doesn't matter.
Jem is the little boy who idolises Devon who looks after him, but unfortunately they are separated when Jem's dad (a bully and all round not nice guy) moves them to avoid child services...
They meet years later, and this is the story :)
March 13, 2015
I am always looking for a second chance at love and this book did not disappoint in that area. After a very unthinkable childhood Jem deserve a life of pure happiness and a second at the love that was very true. This is a heart touching that deal with a person past and how to over come it and be able to live in the present.
There are some areas of this book that will not appear to all readers, but overall it was a very good story.⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️
There are some areas of this book that will not appear to all readers, but overall it was a very good story.⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️
October 12, 2015
I read this book in one day, I had to find out how it ended and if Devon would figure it out. This is the second book that I've read by Michelle Abbott and I've really enjoyed her books! The story has hope and a big heart. The characters and their backgrounds felt very real. Jem had a tough life, but he turns out to be a real diamond in the rough. It was a sweet love story told from both of the main characters' perspectives.
I'd recommend this book for sure, it's a fast and enjoyable read!
I'd recommend this book for sure, it's a fast and enjoyable read!
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February 23, 2015I'll be publishing this by the end of the week.
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March 5, 2015Review to come ...
April 22, 2015
Jem broke my heart over and over. Thank god he had an angel.
March 5, 2015
worked for me x definitely worth a read x
March 12, 2015
Sweet Read
This was a lovely book. Love, heartache, redemption. Loved Jem as a little boy and adore him as a young man. Beautiful characters and a nice story.
This was a lovely book. Love, heartache, redemption. Loved Jem as a little boy and adore him as a young man. Beautiful characters and a nice story.
February 11, 2016
Rare for me to read a book like this but I took a chance and I am so glad that I did.
Outstanding!
Every page tore at your heart strings while mule kicking you in the gut - just WOW!
Alp
Outstanding!
Every page tore at your heart strings while mule kicking you in the gut - just WOW!
Alp
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