The Single Neighbour

by Senta Rich

'A cleverly observed and deeply authentic novel about a marriage in turmoil, and the power the past can have over our present. Arresting and engaging ... Convincing characters and layers of intrigue' HOLLY MILLER

Tristan and Izzy are on the brink of marital breakdown. Sex has become less than perfunctory and distance shadows their interactions. The arrival of their new neighbour may just be their or, will she be their undoing?

Vivacious, enigmatic and enticing, Viv piques both Tristan and Izzy's interest, her appearance in their lives offering them diversion from their faltering marriage and a window into the people they might be were it not for each other.

But as Viv becomes an ever-increasing presence in their lives, the couple are forced to confront the long-ignored truths about themselves, each other and their pasts that have been a silent, spectral presence between them for years. At this fork in their marriage, they will face the most difficult to cleave together for the sake of their union, or to walk away.

A story about how the ripples in a relationship can become waves, The Single Neighbour holds a mirror up to the promise of domestic bliss, and asks whether an extinguished spark can ever be relit.
__________________________________________________________________
Praise for Hotel 21:
'Beautifully told' HEAT
'Fresh, funny and touching' HOLLY MILLER
'Dark and joyous' WOMAN'S WEEKLY

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 5, 2025

Reviews

[Amie Boes · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ Book Review ⭐️

The Single Neighbour by Senta Rich

I was lucky enough to receive a gifted copy of The Single Neighbour from @bloomsburypublishing (thank you!), and I devoured it in less than 24 hours. From the first page, I was hooked.
Senta Rich has a gift for writing characters that feel deeply real. Tristan and Izzy’s unraveling marriage is portrayed with such nuance and honesty. It’s not just about big dramatic moments, but the quiet, everyday silences that grow into chasms. The novel beautifully explores how the little things we hide from each other can slowly create distance, and how sometimes, the only way forward is to stop and start again.
I especially appreciated how the book tackled the complexity of relationships, not just romantic ones, but familial ones too. The tension between parents and children is handled with empathy, showing that the struggle isn’t always one-sided. And then there’s Viv, the enigmatic neighbour whose arrival forces everyone to confront who they really are and what they truly need. Her presence is a catalyst, not just for drama, but for self-discovery.
There are so many lessons woven into this story, but they never feel preachy. Instead, they unfold naturally through the characters’ journeys. The writing style is engaging, heartfelt, and quietly powerful. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from Senta Rich. Highly recommend this read!

[Teodora · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish I loved this, like I did Hotel 21, and I feel like I should have, but the prose, the pacing and the characters just didn't work.

Firstly, the prose was very telling and not showing, which I can normally get over if the plot is intriguing enough, but alas. The pacing was ruined with the overuse of the back and forth chapters reading both Tristan's and Izzy's perspective of the same thing. That gimmick works a sprinkle of times, but the going back every single chapter to read the same plot but from the other persons perspective just stops the pacing and slowed it all down. We get it, they keep misunderstanding each other's actions. Speaking of misunderstanding, Tristan and Izzy were insufferable by the end - the refusal to talk about anything right until the end was infuriating and it didn't even feel like it paid off. Also Izzy's actions were so much worse than Tristan's, and she was just projecting onto him...

It's unfortunate, as if the pacing was fixed and the blatant refusal to discuss things was cut out/the final rekindling was not in the last line, I feel like I could have loved this book.

[Denise Jarrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tristan and Izzy are having marriage problems, mainly because they are hiding things from each other. They both want to speak to each other but seem to need a catalyst - or a kick up the bum - to get that conversation started. Their new neighbour,  Viv, seems to be that catalyst. I was a little frustrated with the characters, as 'their troubled past' seemed hardly that troubled to not divulge and they became quite petty in their rivalry for Viv's attention.  However as a read it was satisfying enough and I really enjoyed reading about some of the other characters in the book, especially in the restaurant.  Not my usual choice of book but I think it will be quite popular with our bookgroup.
A big thank you to Bloomsbury for giving Methley Bookgroup a chance to read it and discuss.

[Urooza · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the premise and the writing style. It’s frustrating and captivating… not sure I fully wrapped my head around Viv’s character so it fell a little flat for me there.

[Laura Mace · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately this book wasn't for me! I found the writing to be telling rather than showing a lot of the time, with one page literally a list of where various characters were standing and who they were talking to. The perspective moving back and forth between husband and wife Tristan and Izzy meant that often the same event was described twice, but didn't feel like it was adding that much, so it felt repetitive. I also just didn't buy that this married couple who kept insisting they'd had an instant connection wouldn't tell each other about their childhoods, especially when the secrets they were hiding just weren't particularly major. It was an easy read so I got through it quickly, but not a recommendation for me. Also, that's not what a baby Guinness shot is!
Thanks to Bloomsbury for giving Methley Book Group the opportunity to read and review.

[Elanor Lawrence · Rating 3 out of 5]

Almost a good book. The characters are interesting and their relationship is complex, but there are just too many things that are overblown or unbelievable. As other reviewers have mentioned, the ‘troubled pasts’ that keep the two main characters from connecting really aren’t all that troubled, and at any point in the story if the characters literally decided to stop acting like children and have a half honest conversation, everything would have been alright.

Then there were so many things that were never explained. Why was Mrs. Jenkins’ death such a key point in their relationship? And what in the world was so important about the shed?

The saving grace of this book is that it’s actually quite well-written, in quite plain, straightforward language that still manages to convey realistic emotion. While this story didn’t work for me, I’d happily try a future Senta Rich novel.

[Jenny Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tristan and Izzy’s marriage is slowly falling apart and any kind of meaningful communication between them has broken down. And then Viv moves in next door and each of them becomes fascinated by her as she provides a distraction from their troubled home life. Ultimately will this make or break their floundering marriage?

I really enjoyed the writing style which is almost simplistic in nature yet reads well –there were no long, convoluted sentences to disentangle and no dictionary was required which made it easy to read. And I soon became immersed in the stories of both Tristan and Izzy - when I say soon I mean that I was on-board by about page two! The characters are well developed and the emotions, thoughts and feelings experienced by Tristan and Izzy seemed both plausible and real in the circumstances and required insight and perception on the part of the author to transfer onto the written page.
I thought the cleverest thing about the book was the way that it was structured. Alternating Tristan and Izzy’s narratives allowed the author to overlap the timeframes so that we often had both Tristan and Izzy’s views of the same event. This highlighted the ways in which misunderstandings can occur, even in relationships that are very close-knit and how the two people concerned can view and interpret certain actions in entirely different ways.

On the downside, I never really got my head around Viv. Even by the end of the book I didn’t feel that I either knew or understood her. She was certainly not like anybody I have ever met and I don’t know whether my lack of connection was an issue with me or whether she just wasn’t as well developed a character as the others. She did play her part well though and certainly made the next door neighbours confront some of their inner feelings.
Also, there were a lot of references back to Tristan and Izzy’s past lives which seemed to be held accountable for their marriage falling apart in the current day. I’m not sure that I was entirely on-board with this piece of logic, although I could see that their pasts may well have had some influence on their behaviour when it came to future relationships – I just felt there was too much of their past history in the book and it felt a bit like padding at times.

When I started the book I assumed that the story was going to be based on the classic tale of Tristan & Isolde (purely because of the character’s names) but when I looked up the details of this classic I couldn’t see the connection so I guess the names must just have been a coincidence.

I would recommend this book as a worthwhile read and would certainly read more by this author in the future.

[Jackie Richardson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Bloomsbury Press for allowing The Methley Book Group copies of this book for review.

This is well written tale exploring the implications and impacts on people when they have ‘secrets’ and hang-ups in their pasts which they have buried deep and are unable to discuss and share with other people, specifically in this case their partners. Tristan & Izzy are married and have known each other for thirteen years but the mad passion and connection they had has dissipated and they don’t know why and don’t know how to fix it. They suspect the other has lost interest, because their behaviours have changed, and that it is their fault because of their ‘bad’ past. But they are totally unable to broach their fears with each other in case it precipitates the end of their relationship. So they are stuck and not moving forward but then a new neighbour moves in and they both pin their hopes that this will be a catalyst for change but don’t know why or how.

Initially I found it hard to get into this story and was impatient with Tristan and Izzy for being stupid not to talk with each other which would sort the issue out, especially as Izzy is a psychologist and should know how to handle relationships. They are petty and irritable with each other and deliberately don’t tell each other anything about the new neighbour as they want to score points over each other and they even feel bad about it but don’t change! I didn’t feel empathy for either of them even when details of their childhoods and losses were introduced.

But then it made me reflect that actually very few of us are able to talk properly and candidly to others because of our fears about the outcome and loss of control and as the story unfolded and the other characters in their lives entered the story I did start to warm to it and began to enjoy the read and appreciate the observations on human behaviour.

The structure of His and Her story by chapter worked quite well for me though it wasn’t consistent with being at the same point with different perspectives. I found Viv (the Single Neighbour) most unlikely especially as she was only there for a short period of time! But then I thought ‘Mary Poppins’! Overall I found it enjoyable and would recommend it.

[Christine Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Single Neighbour follows the main protagonists, Izzy and Tristan, who when we meet them have been unhappy in their marriage for a while due to communication breakdown. They both have insecurities about themselves and their daily lives, as well as their marriage, which we discover through alternating first person chapters, namely ‘Him’ and ‘Her.’ The single neighbour herself, Viv, enters mysteriously into their mundane lives, and both characters secretly hope that she will be the catalyst that breaks the daily rut that they’re both in.

The themes throughout this book appear to show that there is a lesson to learn in that what we perceive in our daily lives, or our history, is not always as it seems. The idea that ‘the grass is greener’ is common as the story goes on; nothing is as it seems until it’s faced realistically, or forced out into the open, sometimes via drastic measures.

I think this is a well written story, with good characterisation throughout. I found it quite a page turner. Relationship breakdown and difficulty in communication is the main theme throughout this book, but not just within Izzy and Tristan’s marriage, it is seen in the other characters arcs as well. The writing depicts very human fears and insecurities, ingrained from difficult childhoods, and carried through to adulthood with consequences. I found the other characters were also well written and well rounded, and as interesting as the main protagonists themselves. I enjoyed the roles they played in the development of the plot. Through them we can see growth in the main characters as they consider other peoples perspectives on life, as well as their own, which I found interesting.

Thank you to Bloomsbury for the copies of this book for Methley Book Group to review. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.

[Halle Kirby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tristan and Izzy are on the brink of marital breakdown. Sex has become less than perfunctory and distance shadows their interactions. The arrival of their new neighbour may just be their salvation: or will she be their undoing?
As Viv becomes an ever-increasing presence in their lives, the couple are forced to confront the long-ignored truths about themselves, each other and their pasts that have been a silent, spectral presence between them for years. At this fork in their marriage, they will face the most difficult decision: to cleave together for the sake of their union, or to walk away.

I’ve really enjoyed reading this novel. I loved the formatting, with each chapter split between Tristan and Izzy, written in the first person. The story centres more than anything around desire. Desire for love and intimacy outside of Tristan and Izzy’s marriage as well as within. Secondary to this are themes of loneliness, constraint, and ultimately love.

My only criticism would be that the writing felt slightly elementary. There were sections that perhaps could have been further developed and some where they were overly descriptive. However, it was a really easy to get into book, great story, and thrilling read.

I have a feeling that The Single Neighbour will be an epic and sizzling read in the sunshine this summer.

Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury for the ARC!

[Mrs Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

You grow to love the two central characters in this story - Tristan and Izzy. The author beautifully explores their personalities and hang ups gradually so you feel like they’re your neighbours by the end.

A story that cleverly describes how marriages can easily break down as we stop communicating and have unhelpful dialogue about our partners and what we assume they think about us. We hold secrets and fail to be honest about what we really want and like in the relationship. Tristan and Izzy depict a typical relationship where the initial whirlwind romance gives way to a ‘boring and normal’ existence and as such the arrival of a new neighbour brings about an exaggerated level of excitement for them both…one which ultimately disappoints.

What I found really interesting was the characters back story and how on reflection they both drew parallels between their lack of love and safety as children to their adult relationships and the struggle to communicate confidently with each other other. This is so relatable to us all in many ways!

Thank you to Bloomsbury for the proof copies of this book for our Methley Book Club, a great read!

[cotcom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of a couple struggling to be honest with each other. Distracted by new neighbour Viv who moves in next door, the story flips back and forth between ‘him’ and ‘her’ perspectives. It is an imaginative story of how people’s pasts impact their lives. Both main characters - Tristan and Izzy - are badly scarred by their childhood experiences and lack of parental love.

I enjoyed this story very much. It’s fresh, subtly funny, entertaining, heartbreaking and endearing. The characters are intricate and well developed. The reader quickly sees what’s going on by thoughts and actions. Writing about the same thing but from different perspectives is a clever device. It highlights how we often interpret and misinterpret the same thing differently. Even the minor characters in the story add a richness to this tale.
A definite must-read.

[Allison Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Izzy and Tristan await a new neighbour and speculate about who this will be. This is one of their few topics of conversation as they are losing contact with each other in a relationship that has never been based on truth and honesty.
The book flows well with chapters alternating between him and her. It’s illuminating to see how each perceive the same things and how they both absorb them from their own perspectives. Every event with the new neighbour leaves them very much more in their own world, disconnected with each other.
The characters are very well drawn and I enjoyed particularly the character of Monty, the chef. There is humour on occasions along with the uncomfortable feeling of what has happened to Izzy and Tristan in their childhoods.
I enjoyed the book that we read as part on Methley Book Club. A new author to me, I will keep an eye out for others.

[Sue · Rating 3 out of 5]

“I would like to thank the publishers for the advance copies of this book sent to our book club to read and review.”

It took me a good while to get into this book. Whilst I did like the alternating chapters, I initially disliked the two main characters and became increasingly impatient with their attitudes and behaviour. They were more like hormonal teenagers than a 30 something couple. But, I’m glad I carried on reading, as their backstories went some way to explaining their actions. This book would make a satisfying summer holiday read.

[Pauline Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nicely observed story about how hidden secrets can eat away at a relationship. Tristan and Liz have only been married 2 years but trust is disappearing because they don't talk to each other and both keep secrets about their childhoods, as well as work challenges. The new neighbour is suitably mysterious and triggers a crisis.
I liked the characters and thought they were well drawn. I didn't enjoy the alternate chapters 'Him, Her' which stopped the story from flowing.
Methley Bookgroup. Thanks to Bloomsbury for the proof copies @methleybkgroup

[Ella Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a deliciously compelling snapshot of a marriage unravelling. The contradictory ‘he said/ she said’ perspectives take you right inside Tristan and Izzy’s heads as new temptations are dangled in front of them. But the novel goes deeper than that to show how hiding painful truths from the person we love will slowly poison our connection. Rich really knows how to ratchet up the tension and she writes brilliantly and honestly about desire and attraction. Very few books have had me rushing to bed every night to listen to the next chapter. This is one of them.

[Rhy Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow. An introductory fortay in to romance for me (30M). Well, a little saucy, a little minx, a little like how the about some bloody boundaries in your marriage and actually just looking after your partner you insightless adults. Have you ever heard of controlling impulses and actually communicating with each other. They find their way in the end, but honestly, this is a 4 page book if husband and wife could actually just talk to each other rather than flirt with anything but the street sign. It's deeper than that, but honestly, it's called therapy.

[Tess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Format: Hardcover

I really enjoyed the alternating chapters of Izzy & Tristan's perspectives. Some found it repetitive as it does repeat the same scene but I appreciated reading how one half interpreted events differently than the other because isn't that real life?? It showed how easily things can be misconstrued. Viv's story was a bit confusing and left many questions, but I see how that was intentional as she was not the focal point despite the novel being titled "Single Neighbor."

[Jacqui Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mostly I loved the characters in this story, how they interacted and how their relationships developed was quite enthralling. I felt as though if I passed them in the street I'd recognise them. The restaurant family were more interesting for me than the machinations of Izzy, Tristan & Viv.
A thoroughly enjoyable read. (Bloomsbury Edition)
Jacqui S - Methley Book Group

[Annette Morris · Rating 2 out of 5]

Like the structure: his story and her story told in alternating chapters that gradually unfold their struggling marriage, distressing back stories and darkest secrets along with witty anecdotes from Tristan's restaurant.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this book! I grabbed it thinking it’d be just another thriller/drama based on the cover, but I was so wrong (in the best way). loved the alternating povs. Beautifully written and honestly hit me in the feels at the end. Totally recommend!

[Carole Wright · Rating 2 out of 5]

Really did not like this book. The only reason it’s a two star rather than one is because it flowed well so was easy to read. I thought the characters were infuriating and whined all the time. I’m not someone who DNF’s books but this nearly changed that.

[Nuala Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read - thoroughly enjoyed it!

[Helen Seymour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Beautifully written. Simple structure revealing hidden complexities within a marriage… deeply layered, raw and real. Senta Rich is a brilliant writer.

[Louise Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read. Couldn’t put the book down. The way the author is able to go from a male to a female perspective on relationships shows her true talent of writing.

[Lynda Cowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant book. Couldn't put it down!

[Janet H · Rating 5 out of 5]

My book of the summer.

[Vicki Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A totally absorbing portrait of a marriage. Brilliantly drawn characters. Totally gripping

[Ranjana · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good portrayal of a troubled marriage

[Wendy Maggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this second novel from Senta Rich.
Great read, interesting structure - Him, Her.
Clever and intriguing, fabulous.