Compassion

The Compassion #1

by Xavier Neal

Jaye Jenkins is dealing with the death of her fiancé, an overbearing mother and an awkward social existence when a green eyed stranger stumbles into her life. For some reason she can't stop thinking about the mysterious man she knows she has no right to be fantasizing about. Suddenly an uncontrollable situation occurs, and in a single moment, one simple act of kindness changes everything.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Interracial Romance, Contemporary Romance, Slow Burn, Military Fiction, Military Romance

238 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 29, 2016

About the author

I'm USA TODAY Bestselling Romance Author who has published over ninety works to date.

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Reviews

[Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: homeless hero, PTSD
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥

Totally did not know what to expect when I picked this up, but it completely blew me away. What a beautiful story about compassion, acceptance, and how far a little bit of kindness can go. The story really moved me and I even shed a couple tears, but I went away with all the warm fuzzies. Super sweet slow burn that will leave you wanting more of these two wonderful characters.

⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers

[Philipa Loxley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🤩🤩🤩🤩(ARC REVIEW)
“Hope for Humanity”
I love it when a book written by a new-to-me author pleasantly surprises me. Xavier Neal’s Compassion is a feel-good gem that makes you want to marinate in all its righteous glory.
Jaye Jenkins is a super quirky school librarian who is struggling with life years after the death of her fiancé. She is the most caring person living in a world full of self-involved rich people and burdened my a well-meaning mother who wants what she thinks is best for her daughter. Jaye meets Archer Cox, a homeless veteran in the most unconventional way and there is an instant connection between the two.
I love me some Jaye and Archer! Because of the circumstances and their own vulnerabilities, they really invest in getting to know one another. Paying attention to the most minute details about one another, they form an extremely strong bond. I didn’t mind the slow-burn in this love story. The plot and the Ferris Bueller-esque narrative had me completely captivated.
Ms. Neal paid particular attention to the trials of veterans and their reintegration into civilian life. It was so insightful and cleverly woven into the developing romance. It was such an intense experience reading this book because I was always anticipating how it was going to end. There are so many messages about compassion, kindness, self-love, pride, honesty in relationships, family dynamics…all this coming together in a HEA where love truly conquers all. Xavier Neal has won another fan in me.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC via DS Book Promotions. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read if you’re down with:
*Slow Burn
*Wounded Hero
*Opposites Attract
*Grumpy/Sunshine
*Unconventional Meet

[Jess Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *

This was book was a journey. One that will break your heart and oh so slowly put it back together. This wasn't instalove, it wasn't love at first sight and it wasn't falling into bed after one encounter. Jaye and Archer's love was fought for not only from Jaye's sheer strength and will but also from Archer finally believing that he is worthy. I cried for Archer but also for Jaye because even though her life was nothing like Archer's her finding this love was just as worthy.

"Because hope is the most dangerous drug of them all."

Archer's life was hard in such an unbearable way that when he finally had a brief glimpse of hope he thought it couldn't possibly be real. A homeless Vet living his life on the streets everyday it was a hard-fought battle just to find shelter and food. When one act of kindness changes all that Archer can't possibly let his guard down because this kindness will only last so long. Until one act of kindness turns to two and then the ultimate act of kindness and Archer learns that Jaye doesn't expect anything from him, she just wants to help.

And this is where their love story really starts...

Jaye never thought that by letting Archer into her home he would become so important to her and in such a short amount of time. Their time spent talking, reading and enjoying one another's company is unlike anything Jaye has ever felt before. This is what love is supposed to feel like, this is what you are supposed to feel when you have found your person, but Archer's past isn't going to let him believe so easily, but Jaye isn't give up, not on him. He finally deserves someone who will fight for him.

"...it's really okay to not be the book everyone wants on their shelf."

As Archer and Jaye's lives change drastically over the next few months there are still things that haunt both of their pasts and the only way, they can get through them is together. Life isn't always easy, and family can be difficult especially in the happiest of times but when you have found your person you don't let the little things, they do tear you apart.

Jaye and Archer fought for their story and that is one thing I love about Xavier's books they always make you believe in the characters you are reading about. I am not ready to say goodbye to this story yet, but I can always hope that I will get to see them in the future and check in on how their love story is going.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book I read by Xavier just solidifies her place in my heart.

I typically pass on "all the feels" books but this one intrigued me. It had "feels", in the form of humor and thought provoking questions and actions.
Compassion is a central theme and the characters, even some side ones, refer back to that topic throughout the story.
This was real and raw, although fictitious, the subject matter wasn't. I love that Xavier can bring difficult subjects and topics to light in her stories. They play out beautifully and make you think of your own actions in your everyday life.

Jaye and Archer are perfect together. The friendship they build and strength they give each other provided a solid backdrop to the story and their development.
While I was reading I kept thinking Archer seemed so different from the other male leads I've read from Xavier. Her ability to write different, versatile characters is truly exceptional.
Archer is a forgotten, soldier. Falling through the cracks ultimately led him to Jaye. Not because of fate or destiny but by a series of choices and decisions.
Jaye is a people pleasing bookworm. I relate to this character so much. I loved all the nods to other stories that Jaye mentions by way of helping her explain difficult situations and feelings (Pigeon books are huge in my house 😆).

I always recommend Xavier Neal because I feel like she has so much to offer her readers. She can write a multitude of types/genres and tropes. Since reading this, I can also recommend grumpy/sunshine, slow burn contemporary romance to my reasons for recommending.

Another amazing story by this absolutely phenomenal author and story teller.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I think a second chance and a little compassion can go quite a long way if we let it."
I was absolutely blown away by this beautiful and emotional story! Archer and Jaye are so fantastic and have such a strong connection through their heart felt journey in this story. These two hit me in all the feels!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. I was amazed by the love and compassion that was shown in this book! Great read!

[Lori Hammons · Rating 5 out of 5]

A random act of kindness goes a long way to saving both Jaye and Archer. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and heartily recommend it.

[TinaNoir · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love it when a books pleasantly surprises me. I haven't read the author before and more often than now I am giving new-to-me authors extra scrutiny before I pick up a book. Too many frogs out there not enough Princes (...*sob* everytime I say Prince these days I can't help but tear up a little).

But this was very good and enough now that I have a new author to look for.

The story is told in alternating chapter POVs in first person from Jaye, the heroine and Archer, the hero.

Jaye is a single lady librarian who lives in an upscale neighborhood. She has a job she loves and a family who loves her. Her only real issue is that her life has been somewhat on hold in the personal front since her fiance died three years ago. And in many ways she's subconsciously behaving as if her fiance is just out on an extended break. She hasn't packed up his things, the house is more his personality than hers, etc.

Archer is a war vet who has returned with a limp courtesy of shrapnel from his last tragic mission which saw the death of his two best friends. He is also suffering from PTSD thanks to that last missions as well. Through a series of circumstances each more unfortunate than the last he has found himself homeless.

Their paths cross when she sees him rifling through her garbage. In a moment of compassion she offers him some food and a relationship is born.

I am one of those persons who run far away from those slick billionaire books. This is the total opposite. And I LOVED it! Archer has no money and no job. But he is totally wonderful. And even though it seems like he has nothing material to contribute to his relationship with Jaye, he is invaluable when it comes to making her face some of her own demons and building up her own self confidence.

This is a very low conflict romance, but there is tension. It would be remiss of me not to say that Archer's lack of a job isn't a real issue, because it is. Even as a reader I was needing for him to find something because a job, even something very simple, is very powerful psychologically. Most People need to be able to do something, earn their way and contribute in order to feel some self worth. And this would be especially true for a personality like Archer. A man who went into the military to serve.

I loved he progression of the story and the romance. It was sweet and hot. Jaye's personality was optimistic and bubbly. Archer's was more reserved. But they worked together very well. The sex scenes were explicit but didn't overwhelm the story.

The book also employed the convention of the two narrators breaking the fourth wall and speaking directly to the reader. I like the deployment of that in this book. Sometimes that convention comes off as a little too precious. But it worked really nicely here.

Good book. Recommended.

[Andrea Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

**** A Feel Good Hit ****

Xavier has completely gutted me with this story all the while giving me hope in humanity. As people I think we take life and the simple things for granted. We live our everyday lives doing the same mundane routines. We need to stop and look around, see what the world can offer us, and maybe by the grace of God we can make a difference in someone's life. Maybe, just maybe after you finish this book you will see a whole new light on what we take for granted.

Let me introduce you to Jaye and Archer. Two people who have been living in a rut. But just one small and simple moment could change everything and breath life back into them. Jaye has had a difficult three years losing the man she loved all to soon. Just living life as she knows it. Still stuck in the past. Her story is about finding herself again. And life is about to throw her a curveball. Now, Archer.... My sweet Archer. He is an Army Vet down on his luck, he's trying to survive all while battling PTSD. He's this gentle soul that nobody and I mean nobody would even give him the time of day, or even the respect that he deserves. He just needs that one person to show him COMPASSION. His love for humanity is all but gone, until Jaye walks into his life.

Ok, enough of the story line. I will NOT give you any details. But, I honestly think this book will hit you in the feel goods, and I swear you will want to just hold and squeeze Archer for the rest of your life. I can't wait for you to read this story, and I hope it touches your heart like it did mine.

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Compassion is an inspiring romance novel that will break your heart in some ways, but leaving you feeling immense joy.

Jaye is an astounding woman! She's smart, kind, unique, and best of all, compassionate. Archer has had an extremely hard life, starting when he was very young. He's been only just surviving after being honorably discharged from the army. These two have my whole heart! The way they become friends is truly touching. They both want to be seen for who they really are, not for who they appear to be. Jaye treats Archer like a human being, instead of trash like everyone else does. She helps him to see that he does deserve good things and to be loved. He's the first person to really see her. He sees her for the wonderful person she is and makes her feel confident in her own skin, making her brave enough to find her own happiness. My heart hurt for what Archer has endured in his life. The moments when his PTSD was triggered and Jaye helped him through it was breathtaking. Their love is truly beautiful. I can't recommend this book enough!

I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Stephanie Jynelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to begin. I read the original version years ago and it was my top book period. The absolute truth of compassion and belief in another human being was outstanding. Then, Xavier decided to give it a re write. This version is better. There more truth and it fits better. Its the reaching out and action of doing, not just saying it or handing over money.
Definitely a must read. They are a beautiful couple.

[Jessica Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jaye and Archer an unlikely friendship that becomes so much more. This book was absolutely amazing. Watching these two characters learn one another and become close and the chemistry they share is like no other. This is a definite must read

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is just the book I needed at this time. Will write review later today.

[Melinda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, it is an absolutely gut wrenching, heartbreaking, full of hope and possibilities, falling in love story.  Xavier Neal had me in tears and praying that love truly does conquer all.

Jaye Jenkins is our amazing heroine.  I loved her strength. Her ability to take chances on others gave me hope for the future.

Archer Cox is our hero, in more ways than one. While his situation was unfortunate, it is an all too accurate picture of reality.

Jaye and Archer meet when she finds him outside her home, looking for food. He’s a vet that’s fallen through the cracks of the system. She a woman that’s hanging on from a discouraging past, a judgmental present, and what she believes to be a bleak future.  But Fate steps in and allows these two to experience a friendship that seems to be heading for more. 

Xavier Neal once again has written a story that is raw and real. Archer is an example that many vets currently face. He’s one of the lucky ones that found someone that still believes in kindness.  She offered him a helping hand and he offered her a chance to be herself. This couple gives us hope for humanity.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful, fill your heart to bursting while also making it fiercely ache read. Jaye and Archer story has a real brutal honesty to it and that means that this book does its best to open your eyes as it delivers a very powerful emotional punch. As usual, this author has created heartbreakingly relatable characters that were sinfully easy to care about and fall in love with. Slow-burning, sweet and poignant, be prepared to feel plenty of feels, endure lots of heartstring tugging and to ultimately be left a sappy, swooning pile of mush. I am independently posting an impartial review.

[Camille · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it!!

So I loved the original of this book, but the extended edition just hits different!! I love the added nuance and perspective given with this extended edition. I loved having more insight into Archer's thoughts and feeling and seeing thr evolution of Jaye given more time. It is definitely a slow burn, but its oh so worth it!!

[Tovah Levine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh the feels of this story! Girl if I could I would give you a million stars for this. You amaze me with each story. Please more!!!!!!!

[Colleen Carvalho · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. Here is said review:

This was my first book by Xavier Neal, so I wasn’t really sure what to expect, or if I’d even like it. I was about 10% in when I knew this book was going to leave a mark on my heart and soul. And it did.
I read it in 1 night. I just couldn’t put it down. Xavier’s writing style pulled me in right away. Her characters were so REAL. They talked to themselves, like full on conversations, and were witty and sarcastic as hell. I was laughing and nodding my head, and at some points even talking back to them. They were that real.

"Friends. That’s it. Maybe naked friends? No. Definitely clothes on only friends." ~Archer Cox

The story line is amazing. Taken from the real world, it’s something you hear about, read about, and for most, turn the other way. Kindness, whether it be a smile, a helping hand or a slice of leftover pizza, a small act of kindness can change a person’s day, or life. It’s so true to life, you can feel the pain and struggles that Archer is facing, and also the turmoil that Jaye is working through while trying to help him and work on herself as well.

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.” ~Dalai Lama

And o.m.g. the sexual chemistry between these two! SMOKIN’! You will need to change your panties during their bedroom scenes!

This was a 5 phenomenal stars read for me. It’s only January, and I can already say this will be on my top 10 list for 2016. I will be thinking of Archer and Jaye for a long time to come.

[Mspraise50 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have known of this author for a while and indeed have brought many of her books. However, this is the first one I have actually read. This story is interracial. Its is a Black female/white male.

I enjoyed Jaye and Archer's story's story. It was a sweet, gentle and at in places funny read. The author in this book puts a lot of what the characters' private thoughts are into the book. It would have increased, my personal enjoyment of the story, if there had been a lot more dialogue between the couple instead of us hearing their private thoughts.

Strange how one act of compassion can open the door to so many other things. One just has to take the first step. I loved that 95% of the book was about the couple. There were other minor characters but that is what they were minor. I did not like Maggie at all she reflected the stereotypical response of most of humanity about people and circumstances alien to their lives.

Definitely worth a read!

[Lourene · Rating 5 out of 5]

We need more Compassion

This book shows us what is missing in everyday life. Compassion for human life.
First I have to say that the stlye the author chose to write the book was unique. Having the characters speake directly to the reader, kind of like they do on a TV show, has you adjust the way you hear the book in your mind. At least it did for me.
Next I felt for Jaye and how she lived to be a people pleaser, always changing what she liked or loved for the people around her, especially her deceased Fiancé. She hadn't realized what she liked ti eat because she still was eating and doing what he liked. For example when she met Archer she was throwing out two day old pizza, because two days way the limit on food.
Archer really holds a spot in my heart. He's had such a tough life from the get go. The country he fought for and should have stood behind him even let him down. He was a wounded warrior honorably discharged and forgotten in the system. He was lost, homeless, struggling to survive in a world full of hurt for him. His PTSD could be triggered at the worst times and he learned on his own how to come out of it. He impressed me with that.
Jaye being the kind hearted person she is shows him the compassion he never knew he needed to help get back his dignity and more. He help Jaye find herself, learn to speak up for what she wants and not what other's want. In this process they find something neither saw coming.
This story completely tugged at my heart strings as well as hit home with my veteran heart.

[Steph's Romance Book Talk · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars / 3.5 Steam Fans

TALK ABOUT A PERFECT START TO 2023!! Compassion is a beautiful look at what we all need to do more of in life. Give Compassion, listen to our loved ones, understand that everyone grieves differently, and strive to be good people.

CW: Grief, PTSD, Self-esteem, Veteran Issues, Homelessness, Privilege, and Supremacy.

Video review available in Week 1: Jan 1 – Jan 7, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)

[Sher · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Received ARC for honest critique and I'm giving it...

The way Xavier writes a character, makes you feel like you know them. It makes you feel like a fly on the way, watching the happenings in real time. An interloper but not in a bad way. I absolutely loved this book. I loved how naturally empathic Jaye was from the start. I love the meet-cute that wasn't so cute. I enjoyed Jaye's interactions with her father but her mother...not so much. Too many times, do we encounter the "she means well" mothers and frankly, they rub me wrong every time and I'm being nice. But moving on....Archer, my goodness. Archer, Archer, Archer...I felt for him from the time she caught him going thru her trash. I wanted to know him and his story. I wanted to find out why he was in the situation that would cause him to be outside her house in the cold in the first place. What Jaye provided to Archer is what the world needs more of, love, understanding and compassion. We don't always have the answers but sometimes just knowing someone is there makes a huge difference. I was hoping Jaye would find someone to love and pour into after the death of her fiance and I'm so glad she found Archer. They both needed each other and found each other in the right space at the right time. Another beautiful one by X. Neal!

[Jackie Bragg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart Wrenching Story

Compassion: Sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.

This book was truly Heartwarming and Amazing.

The lovestory that end all lovestories.

Jaye lives her life to please others. She smart, compassionate, and I just love her to pieces.


Archer is a War Vet with PTSD. He is down on luck, and digging though trash to survive.


When these two meet, it was like stars aligned to make a perfect person for the other.



Jaye sees the side of Archer that no one knows, or cares to see.

Thier relationship started out as freinds. But as they continued to be around each other and for each other. It blossomed to a Wonderful, Inspiring and compassionate story.


Those that looked at the two, couldn't understand why these two made such a Beautiful Couple.


Jaye and Archer story was heartbreaking, and Emotional.

It was hard to see how others treat people less fortunate then them.

I love Jaye for standing by Archer. And showing thoese, that love has no boundaries in who you love.


Thank Xavier for this Epic story of Compassion.

[Tiffany Levin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has a beautiful message that I think we all need right now - everyone just needs a little more compassion!

This book so beautifully tackles some big issues that a lot of people face and does so in a way that is respectful and loving. Jaye and Archer meet in a very unconventional way and realize that they are each what the other is missing in their lives. Their road to their happily ever after is not an easy one but they figure out a way to travel it together.

Xavier rereleased this extended story and made the story that much better! Once again, she did an amazing job with writing characters that really grab onto your feelings and take you along for their ride. A great book that definitely deserves to be on your list to read!

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Archer is just trying to survive after serving his country. He is alone, hungry and homeless until Jaye comes into his life. Not only does she offer him food and a place to stay but she shows him respect and kindness when he is at the lowest place in his life and make him believe that goodness does exist.

Jay has a difficult past of her own and due to what she has been through she is alive but not really living. Although her circumstances are different from Archer’s they are kindred spirits as although they are surrounded by others they couldn’t feel more alone.

This is both a heartbreaking and inspiring story as we get to feel everything that Archer and Jaye have been through and see the strength they get from each other and help each other heal.

[KristieReadsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

“And people are exactly like books. We all have stories. We all have chapters. “

Going into this book I knew it would be emotional, touching and wonderful. Xavier does an amazing job telling stories around sensitive topics/experiences. She handles the stories and character with care, dignity and compassion.

Jaye is single, has suffered a great loss in the last several years and is living a bit in the past. She is thoughtful, kind and protective…but really needs a change.

Archer - sweet Archer. He’s a veteran that has seen and experienced what none of us can imagine. He’s left with many scars - emotional and physical. He’s down on his luck but Jaye comes to his rescue.

These two come from separate worlds but really need each other - they learn, grow and become better people because of the other.

This is a really wonderful book that will make you think a little…we don’t know what others are going through so we should not judge.

[Jenn Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this read so much! The story took me on a journey of emotions. It's a great read that pulled at all the heart strings! A perfect mix of sweet, heat, all those emotions, laughs and just an overwhelming feeling of... GOOD. The characters are strong, certain topics are handled very well and the overall connection between Archer and Jaye is perfect. It's a must read on every list.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Daronda Schafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this extended version! Even if you read the first version, I highly recommend reading this version. Mrs . Xavier out did herself. I felt so bad for Archer and all that he suffered but loved how Jaye fought for him in all ways. This was a very heart warming read.

[Sheri Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compassion is my very favorite book written by Xavier Neal. I can't even tell you why it is. It's a simple story but it encompasses so much about humanity and our treatment of each other. This book earned a place in my heart and I love it. I was so excited about the extended version that I couldn't sleep the night before it was released. I started reading and didn't move until I had finished. Please grab this story.

[Gigi · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many thoughts on this one, don't know where to start.
With the easiest one, I guess: I lovedLOVED it.
In Dutch we have a saying: wie goed doet, goed ontmoet. Literally translated: if you do good, you'll meet good, obviously meaning who does good things to others, will receive good things in return. Exactly what this book is about.
By showing just a little bit of compassion to a homeless man (a drop dead gorgeous one), Jaye end up finding the love of her life in Archer. (this was not a spoiler, it's a romance story, for Cupid's sake).
When I started with this book, I had a feeling of déjà vu: I've read this story before. It reminded me of the Damaged Souls Series: 3 Book Box Set: Scarred, Open Wounds, & Healed by Twyla Turner, but also of Juicy by Pepper Pace.
And yes there are similarities with both stories, especially the Damaged Souls series, that also tells the story of a wounded veteran who lost his way and became homeless and find his love match in a lonely scarred young woman. But the similarities are just on the surface. The execution of each story is quite different, making all 3 gems in their own right.

I never wrote a review for the Damaged Soul series, but if I were to compare it with Compassion I would say Compassion is slightly better in being that it is a more well rounded story and Xavier Neal only needed one book to tell it all instead of 3 installments. But this is not a competition so forget I even said this.

What I liked about this book:
- it deals with an army veteran who is homeless and battling PTSD
- the heroine is one quirky dudette (I liked her a lot!) dealing with loss, an overbearing mother and trying to find her way
- there was no unnecessary added drama to what was already quite difficult circumstances already for a developing relationship (yeah, this is a pet peeve, I hate it when authors overproduce the drama)
- well written (inner)dialogues that made sense, absolute no cheesy conversations and repetitive lines
- the sexual chemistry: HOTdamn!
- the cameos of personages in other Xavier Neal stories, like Merrick (Adrenaline Series), Presley and Ryder (Blue Dream series, I still have to read those) and a reference to the Senses series (apparently Logan and Maxx had a movie deal called Unbreakable, haha).
- the typical Xavier Neal writing style: her protagonists talks directly to their readers. She did this in every book (I've read) so far, and it took some getting used to, but it grows on you.