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The Man Next Door
Love in the Time of Serial Killers meets The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window in this delightful romp about a recently broke divorcée who moves in with her housebound mother only to spend their days spying on her grumpy, mysterious and sexy new neighbor.
Zona never thought her life was headed this way, but here she is, newly divorced and moving back in with her mom, Louise. After her gambling addicted ex-husband lost all of their savings, including their daughter's college fund, she doesn't really have a choice. She's cutting every coupon she can and she's going to help put her daughter through nursing school, even if it kills her.
This wasn't Louise's plan, either, laid up at home with a broken leg after one unfortunate tumble on the senior singles cruise she'd been looking forward to for months. But if she's going to spend all her time at home, at least she's got her daughter there with her. And there's some hot new eye candy next door to distract them both from their troubles. He appears to be single and just around Zona's age. Could his arrival be the universe making amends for everything it's put her through?
Maybe the universe isn't feeling as generous as Louise hoped. There’s something lurking under that mans surface charm, something…dangerous? And who's the woman they can hear him in all-out shouting matches with on the other side of the fence? When the woman seems to disappear without a trace, imaginations run wild. Or at least, Zona hopes it's just her mother's imagination...
Zona never thought her life was headed this way, but here she is, newly divorced and moving back in with her mom, Louise. After her gambling addicted ex-husband lost all of their savings, including their daughter's college fund, she doesn't really have a choice. She's cutting every coupon she can and she's going to help put her daughter through nursing school, even if it kills her.
This wasn't Louise's plan, either, laid up at home with a broken leg after one unfortunate tumble on the senior singles cruise she'd been looking forward to for months. But if she's going to spend all her time at home, at least she's got her daughter there with her. And there's some hot new eye candy next door to distract them both from their troubles. He appears to be single and just around Zona's age. Could his arrival be the universe making amends for everything it's put her through?
Maybe the universe isn't feeling as generous as Louise hoped. There’s something lurking under that mans surface charm, something…dangerous? And who's the woman they can hear him in all-out shouting matches with on the other side of the fence? When the woman seems to disappear without a trace, imaginations run wild. Or at least, Zona hopes it's just her mother's imagination...
368 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2025
About the author
Sheila Roberts
116 books2,071 followersWith fifty books to her credit, both fiction and non-fiction, Sheila Roberts is a frequent USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller - and a fan favorite. Her books have sold over three million copies and have been turned into movies for the Hallmark, Lifetime and Great American Family channels. Before settling into her writing career, Sheila owned a singing telegram company and played in band. When she's not traveling, Sheila can be found hanging out with friends, playing tennis, and, of course, writing and reading. Sometimes she even remembers to post books she's read!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
September 28, 2025
Sheila Roberts is usually one of my go to authors for charming romances with warmth and heart, so I was curious when The Man Next Door took a slightly different direction. This story follows Zona, who’s recently divorced after her husband gambled away their life savings. Forced to start fresh, she moves back in with her mother, Louise, and you also hear from Zona’s daughter, Bree. What could have been a sweet second chance romance leans more into quirky women’s fiction, with Zona, Louise, and Bree spying on their mysterious new neighbor, Alec—a grump who gets into loud, dramatic fights with a hysterical woman the entire neighborhood can hear.
The premise had potential, but the pacing dragged more than I expected. With three generations of characters, there should have been more energy and momentum, but instead the story stalled in places and never fully delivered on either suspense or romance. It felt like Roberts was experimenting with a dash of mystery or thriller elements, but it didn’t create the tension needed to pull me in, nor did it lean into the cozy mystery vibe I thought it might embrace. That said, there were still some entertaining moments, and I enjoyed the family dynamics between Zona, Louise, and Bree.
On audio, Courtney Patterson’s narration was the highlight, she brought life to the characters and was an absolute delight to listen to, making the slower pacing easier to get through. In the end, while The Man Next Door wasn’t a favorite and felt a little “in between genres,” it still offered a quirky neighborhood drama with a multigenerational cast. Overall, I’d call this one just okay for me, but Patterson’s narration definitely elevated the experience.
The premise had potential, but the pacing dragged more than I expected. With three generations of characters, there should have been more energy and momentum, but instead the story stalled in places and never fully delivered on either suspense or romance. It felt like Roberts was experimenting with a dash of mystery or thriller elements, but it didn’t create the tension needed to pull me in, nor did it lean into the cozy mystery vibe I thought it might embrace. That said, there were still some entertaining moments, and I enjoyed the family dynamics between Zona, Louise, and Bree.
On audio, Courtney Patterson’s narration was the highlight, she brought life to the characters and was an absolute delight to listen to, making the slower pacing easier to get through. In the end, while The Man Next Door wasn’t a favorite and felt a little “in between genres,” it still offered a quirky neighborhood drama with a multigenerational cast. Overall, I’d call this one just okay for me, but Patterson’s narration definitely elevated the experience.
October 17, 2025
I received a free copy of, The Man Next Door, by Sheila Roberts, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Louise and her daughter Zona are not in good places right now, having moving in together. This book was a little depressing, a lot going on, gambling, secrets, divorce, etc.
October 21, 2025
The Man Next Door by Sheila Roberts is a charming mix of humor, heart, and light suspense. I loved the blend of cozy domestic moments and sly mystery, all wrapped around characters who feel genuine and relatable. Roberts has such a warm, engaging style that makes even the most ordinary situations shine with personality.
This story is full of wit, small-town spirit, and just enough tension to keep the pages turning. It’s the kind of book that feels like comfort food with a mischievous twist, perfect for anyone who enjoys smart, funny fiction with a touch of intrigue.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this delightful novel.
This story is full of wit, small-town spirit, and just enough tension to keep the pages turning. It’s the kind of book that feels like comfort food with a mischievous twist, perfect for anyone who enjoys smart, funny fiction with a touch of intrigue.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this delightful novel.
October 31, 2025
I love Sheila Roberts’ writing and The Man Next Door is such a great example of her ability to write quirky characters and of keeping the reader guessing. Every time I thought I knew what was coming, I was surprised and the story went in a completely different direction than expected, but it was an enjoyable read overall.
November 1, 2025
There is so much to love about this one. It's a fun cozy mystery with 3 generations of amazing women and an absolute endearing supporting cast. It's made even better as each of these 3 women search for love.
I both listened to and read it and both formats are fantastic. Courtney Patterson did a great job narrating
I found it enjoyable, captivating and highly entertaining.
I both listened to and read it and both formats are fantastic. Courtney Patterson did a great job narrating
I found it enjoyable, captivating and highly entertaining.
September 29, 2025
he Man Next Door delivers a small-town cozy tale about a woman recently divorced with trust issues who moves back home with her mother. This zany tale has them spying on their new sexy neighbor and dealing with the curveballs life throws at them.
Zona’s second husband, unbeknownst to her, had a gambling problem that left her broke and struggling to replace the tuition money he stole from her daughter. So she moves back in with her mom, Louise, while she works a full-time job and hustles on the side to raise funds.
Louise leads a full life and has an active circle of friends, including the gentleman down the street, but she and her dog Dorothy aren’t settling. In fact, she has booked herself on a singles cruise to Hawaii.
As the daughter and mother settle into a routine, they can’t help but spy on their new neighbor. At first, Louise thinks of setting Zona up. However, when he fights loudly with a woman, they have concerns. Did I mention Louise dreams of writing a mystery novel and spends her days watching true crime documentaries?
I wasn’t sure what I was getting into and, if I am honest, I thought this would be an amateur detective story. The tale that unfolds has it all from family bonds, friendship, budding romances and naughty dog antics. The mystery is more of the nosy neighbor sort, but we have some suspenseful moments. If you like cozy stories with a bit of mystery and everything but the kitchen sink, you’ll enjoy this easy tale. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Zona’s second husband, unbeknownst to her, had a gambling problem that left her broke and struggling to replace the tuition money he stole from her daughter. So she moves back in with her mom, Louise, while she works a full-time job and hustles on the side to raise funds.
Louise leads a full life and has an active circle of friends, including the gentleman down the street, but she and her dog Dorothy aren’t settling. In fact, she has booked herself on a singles cruise to Hawaii.
As the daughter and mother settle into a routine, they can’t help but spy on their new neighbor. At first, Louise thinks of setting Zona up. However, when he fights loudly with a woman, they have concerns. Did I mention Louise dreams of writing a mystery novel and spends her days watching true crime documentaries?
I wasn’t sure what I was getting into and, if I am honest, I thought this would be an amateur detective story. The tale that unfolds has it all from family bonds, friendship, budding romances and naughty dog antics. The mystery is more of the nosy neighbor sort, but we have some suspenseful moments. If you like cozy stories with a bit of mystery and everything but the kitchen sink, you’ll enjoy this easy tale. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
October 24, 2025
#ad much love for my finished copy @uplitreads #partner
& @htpbooks_audio for the ALC (umm I think)
🆃🅷🅴 🅼🅰🅽 🅽🅴🆇🆃 🅳🅾🅾🆁
ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ | ᴍʏꜱᴛᴇʀʏ | ʜᴜᴍᴏʀ | ᴡᴏᴍᴇɴ’ꜱ ꜰɪᴄ
“Could a house absorb the emotions of the people who lived in it? Did bad vibes linger long after those people had moved out? Once infected, did that house become a magnet for more of the same?,” (p. 3).
Love thy neighbor.
👀 This neighbor always knows what’s up in your house, maybe before you even have a clue. But there’s also things she can’t see. Doesn’t matter, because she’s sure she knows.
If you’re looking for a lighter thriller/mystery with maybe some romance then this is the book for you! Women’s fiction that almost every person can relate to. Because there’s a new neighbor next door and Louise thinks her daughter Zona needs to get back in the game since her divorce from her lying husband.
And there’s not much else for Louise to do when she falls on a cruise and breaks her leg. Watching the new neighbor becomes her favorite hobby. Her new obsession. But no one will listen to what’s she’s trying to tell them.
🎧: I also listened to the audio while following along and would highly recommend the audio. Courtney Patterson gives a fabulous performance and is just so talented. Her voices were perfect. 2x was the perfect speed.
This was a fun and fast-paced book that I fully enjoyed. Expertly written with a killer plot, I can almost guarantee you’ll love this one. However, I would say reading this book felt way more like a suspense thriller than a cozy read. It felt more ominous to me anyways but maybe that’s my thriller brain - idk.
Fun read!
& @htpbooks_audio for the ALC (umm I think)
🆃🅷🅴 🅼🅰🅽 🅽🅴🆇🆃 🅳🅾🅾🆁
ᴛʜʀɪʟʟᴇʀ | ᴍʏꜱᴛᴇʀʏ | ʜᴜᴍᴏʀ | ᴡᴏᴍᴇɴ’ꜱ ꜰɪᴄ
“Could a house absorb the emotions of the people who lived in it? Did bad vibes linger long after those people had moved out? Once infected, did that house become a magnet for more of the same?,” (p. 3).
Love thy neighbor.
👀 This neighbor always knows what’s up in your house, maybe before you even have a clue. But there’s also things she can’t see. Doesn’t matter, because she’s sure she knows.
If you’re looking for a lighter thriller/mystery with maybe some romance then this is the book for you! Women’s fiction that almost every person can relate to. Because there’s a new neighbor next door and Louise thinks her daughter Zona needs to get back in the game since her divorce from her lying husband.
And there’s not much else for Louise to do when she falls on a cruise and breaks her leg. Watching the new neighbor becomes her favorite hobby. Her new obsession. But no one will listen to what’s she’s trying to tell them.
🎧: I also listened to the audio while following along and would highly recommend the audio. Courtney Patterson gives a fabulous performance and is just so talented. Her voices were perfect. 2x was the perfect speed.
This was a fun and fast-paced book that I fully enjoyed. Expertly written with a killer plot, I can almost guarantee you’ll love this one. However, I would say reading this book felt way more like a suspense thriller than a cozy read. It felt more ominous to me anyways but maybe that’s my thriller brain - idk.
Fun read!
October 8, 2025
The Man Next Door by Sheila Roberts is a cozy mystery with a touch of rom-com charm. The story follows Zona, recently divorced and living with her mother while she works on rebuilding her life. Their quiet routine is interrupted by the arrival of a handsome but mysterious new neighbor. Zona’s mom is eager to play matchmaker — until overheard arguments raise suspicions about what’s really going on next door.
This was my first read from this author, and I went in hoping to find a new favorite. The premise had a lot of potential, but the story never quite delivered. The pacing felt sluggish, and there were far too many side characters who didn’t seem to contribute much — and many of them were more irritating than endearing. There was an attempt at character development, but it unfolded so slowly that by the time it happened, I’d lost interest.
This was my first read from this author, and I went in hoping to find a new favorite. The premise had a lot of potential, but the story never quite delivered. The pacing felt sluggish, and there were far too many side characters who didn’t seem to contribute much — and many of them were more irritating than endearing. There was an attempt at character development, but it unfolded so slowly that by the time it happened, I’d lost interest.
September 28, 2025
Book Report: The Man Next Door
Zona’s life has hit reset: newly divorced…broke thanks to her ex’s gambling, and moving back in with her mom Louise…who’s sidelined with a broken leg. Between coupon clipping and supporting her daughter’s nursing school dreams…Zona doesn’t have much time for herself until a handsome new neighbor moves in next door👀 But when strange arguments and a mysterious disappearance follow…Zona and Louise find themselves caught between curiosity…suspicion and a whole lot of neighborly drama.
This was my first Sheila Roberts book and it was totally fun! ✨ The cover reveal grabbed me and the synopsis hooked me even more because it felt so close to home…spying on the neighbors and sharing it all with my mom😂 I’ll admit I went back and forth on how I felt while reading but by the end the characters really grew on me. I’m already missing Louise and her love for a juicy crime story. A little outlandish at times, yes but also funny…cozy and the perfect mix of neighborhood gossip and mystery. 🕵️♀️📚
Thank You Mira for the gifted copy
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Zona’s life has hit reset: newly divorced…broke thanks to her ex’s gambling, and moving back in with her mom Louise…who’s sidelined with a broken leg. Between coupon clipping and supporting her daughter’s nursing school dreams…Zona doesn’t have much time for herself until a handsome new neighbor moves in next door👀 But when strange arguments and a mysterious disappearance follow…Zona and Louise find themselves caught between curiosity…suspicion and a whole lot of neighborly drama.
This was my first Sheila Roberts book and it was totally fun! ✨ The cover reveal grabbed me and the synopsis hooked me even more because it felt so close to home…spying on the neighbors and sharing it all with my mom😂 I’ll admit I went back and forth on how I felt while reading but by the end the characters really grew on me. I’m already missing Louise and her love for a juicy crime story. A little outlandish at times, yes but also funny…cozy and the perfect mix of neighborhood gossip and mystery. 🕵️♀️📚
Thank You Mira for the gifted copy
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
October 16, 2025
what a delightfully zany romp! This was a cute love story that also has some "thriller" bits to it. it was very cute, well done, and frankly adorable. I loved the characters (Darling is a darling puppy) and the fast snappy writing. The story moved well, I never felt like was dragging or bogged down with extraneous bits. Alec is my new book boyfriend and I'm so happy for all the characters in the end.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Sheila Roberts, and Harlequin audio for my ARC of this audiobook.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Sheila Roberts, and Harlequin audio for my ARC of this audiobook.
October 9, 2025
What an awesome book! It would make for a wonderful Hallmark movie. Great characters and never a dull moment. It keeps you wondering what will happen next. I hated to see it end.
January 7, 2026
Zona never imagined her life would take this turn, but after a divorce, she finds herself moving back in with her mom, Louise. Louise’s own plans have gone awry thanks to a broken leg earned on a senior singles cruise, leaving mother and daughter housebound together…until a mysterious, handsome new neighbor moves in next door. He seems single, age-appropriate, and just intriguing enough to spark curiosity. Is he a welcome distraction or the universe finally cutting Zona a break?
The Man Next Door turned out to be a total guilty-pleasure read for me. With its small-town setting and nosy-neighbor vibes, it totally reminded me of the movie, The Burbs, only cozier, far less sinister, and a dash of romance. Add in quirky family dynamics, plenty of humor, and a dog who absolutely refuses to behave, and you’ve got a story that’s easy to sink into.
While the pacing was slow at times, the writing kept me engaged, and the relationships and subtle intrigue kept me turning pages. Overall, this was an entertaining, cozy read that balanced charm, mystery, and heart.
If you enjoy small-town settings, cozy mysteries, and just a dash of romance, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
The Man Next Door turned out to be a total guilty-pleasure read for me. With its small-town setting and nosy-neighbor vibes, it totally reminded me of the movie, The Burbs, only cozier, far less sinister, and a dash of romance. Add in quirky family dynamics, plenty of humor, and a dog who absolutely refuses to behave, and you’ve got a story that’s easy to sink into.
While the pacing was slow at times, the writing kept me engaged, and the relationships and subtle intrigue kept me turning pages. Overall, this was an entertaining, cozy read that balanced charm, mystery, and heart.
If you enjoy small-town settings, cozy mysteries, and just a dash of romance, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
October 8, 2025
A nosey mom, a meddling daughter, and a new next door neighbor makes for a funny, entertaining, story about love, loss, and deciding if you can trust your next door neighbor. I loved the narrators! Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the early release audible arc.
October 18, 2025
It’s a good thing I read this book while I was alone because I laughed out loud so many times!
I can always rely on Roberts for a rip roaring raucous read!
I loved how snoopy Louise and Gilda were but that would drive me nuts If I lived next to them due to their overactive imaginations.
For most of the book I wanted to bury Bree in the flowerbed!
Roberts crafts such descriptive phrases here are some of my faves: Ursula the sea witch. Lizard skin, her hair looked like bats used it as a playground,’she looked like a walking bed pillow.
The pool pile on had me in raptures and the ending was sublime!
Thanks NetGalley, HTP, the author for digital and physical copies.
I can always rely on Roberts for a rip roaring raucous read!
I loved how snoopy Louise and Gilda were but that would drive me nuts If I lived next to them due to their overactive imaginations.
For most of the book I wanted to bury Bree in the flowerbed!
Roberts crafts such descriptive phrases here are some of my faves: Ursula the sea witch. Lizard skin, her hair looked like bats used it as a playground,’she looked like a walking bed pillow.
The pool pile on had me in raptures and the ending was sublime!
Thanks NetGalley, HTP, the author for digital and physical copies.
October 23, 2025
I adored this cute and quirky story. I chuckled throughout and laughed out loud several times. Towards the end I felt myself get teary. I love a story that.can elicit emotion from me. I switched between reading and the audio and the narrator did a fantastic job of bringing these characters to life.
The story is about 3 generations of women. All have their issues that they need to work through. I found them believable and relatable. I found myself hoping that they’d all have their happily ever after.
My only issue is that at times, particularly in the beginning, certain elements were repetitive. However, once I settled into the story that no longer bothered me.
This is my first book by this author but I look forward to reading more of her work.
4.5 stars
The story is about 3 generations of women. All have their issues that they need to work through. I found them believable and relatable. I found myself hoping that they’d all have their happily ever after.
My only issue is that at times, particularly in the beginning, certain elements were repetitive. However, once I settled into the story that no longer bothered me.
This is my first book by this author but I look forward to reading more of her work.
4.5 stars
August 21, 2025
I'm a fan of the author's prior work but this novel veered from her trademark charismatic characters. I found myself having trouble connecting to the characters or caring about their plight. I felt Zona was the most likeable but Louise's antics to be childlike especially at her age. The novel tries to follow a scripted something sinister is happening next door but it comes off as dated rather than humorous.
While this book wasn't my cup of tea, I'm hoping her next novel has something more relatable brewing. Giving the 'The Man Next Door' 3 stars for Zona's story but that's rounding up from a 2.5 rating.
While this book wasn't my cup of tea, I'm hoping her next novel has something more relatable brewing. Giving the 'The Man Next Door' 3 stars for Zona's story but that's rounding up from a 2.5 rating.
October 22, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Media for an ARC on this audiobook.
I really did not like this book. Everyone was so whiney and their problems were just repeated over and over.
Also, their dog drove me nuts. Keep the damn thing locked up and stop letting it get out.
1 star because I really did like the grandma, mom, and daughter dynamic. They were all going through shit and they were able to lean on each other
I really did not like this book. Everyone was so whiney and their problems were just repeated over and over.
Also, their dog drove me nuts. Keep the damn thing locked up and stop letting it get out.
1 star because I really did like the grandma, mom, and daughter dynamic. They were all going through shit and they were able to lean on each other
October 10, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 4.5/5
One of the things I love most about Sheila’s books is her ability to write truly relatable characters. Every quirk or flaw in a character is going to remind you of someone you know personally. This story gives us an inside glimpse into the life of three generations of women. We get to experience their ups and downs. They are fiercely protective and loving but also frustrating at times. Their brutal honesty with each other is endearing and let me tell you, there are so many times these women will have you laughing at their chaos.
Zona is forced to move in with her mother, Louise, after a nasty divorce due to her husband’s secret gambling addiction. She’s trying to put the pieces of her life back together, which doesn’t prove to be easy when her mom winds up breaking her leg just as she’s about to take off on a cruise. Zona is now thrust into the world of caregiving for her while holding multiple jobs to make ends meet. Zona’s daughter, Bree, winds up caught in the mess now that her college funds are missing due to Zona’s ex having emptied that account to fuel his gambling habit.
Louise has a lot of free time on her hands now that she’s stuck at home recuperating from her broken leg. She has an addiction of her own – true crime shows! Lol When a mysterious man moves next door and they start hearing screaming and fights she assumes the worst. Louise is adamant that the police need to come out and get involved based on theories her true crime shows have filled her head with.
The crazy antics with Alec, the mysterious “man next door” really kick in around 40% and that’s when I became even more invested in this book. Zona and Louise will have you giggling and Alec’s dry humor will have you smiling from ear to ear. There are sweet and funny side characters and unexpected romance(S) to warm your heart throughout this fun read.
4.5-Star clean rating for a handful of curse words. No F-words.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 4.5/5
One of the things I love most about Sheila’s books is her ability to write truly relatable characters. Every quirk or flaw in a character is going to remind you of someone you know personally. This story gives us an inside glimpse into the life of three generations of women. We get to experience their ups and downs. They are fiercely protective and loving but also frustrating at times. Their brutal honesty with each other is endearing and let me tell you, there are so many times these women will have you laughing at their chaos.
Zona is forced to move in with her mother, Louise, after a nasty divorce due to her husband’s secret gambling addiction. She’s trying to put the pieces of her life back together, which doesn’t prove to be easy when her mom winds up breaking her leg just as she’s about to take off on a cruise. Zona is now thrust into the world of caregiving for her while holding multiple jobs to make ends meet. Zona’s daughter, Bree, winds up caught in the mess now that her college funds are missing due to Zona’s ex having emptied that account to fuel his gambling habit.
Louise has a lot of free time on her hands now that she’s stuck at home recuperating from her broken leg. She has an addiction of her own – true crime shows! Lol When a mysterious man moves next door and they start hearing screaming and fights she assumes the worst. Louise is adamant that the police need to come out and get involved based on theories her true crime shows have filled her head with.
The crazy antics with Alec, the mysterious “man next door” really kick in around 40% and that’s when I became even more invested in this book. Zona and Louise will have you giggling and Alec’s dry humor will have you smiling from ear to ear. There are sweet and funny side characters and unexpected romance(S) to warm your heart throughout this fun read.
4.5-Star clean rating for a handful of curse words. No F-words.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
November 15, 2025
Even though the classic mystery movie "Rear Window" inspired Sheila Roberts to write The Man Next Door, it's a romance with a minor mystery element rather than a suspense novel with a small romance element. The publishers (MIRA and Harlequin Audio) and the tag line ("loving your neighbor can be murder") clearly hinted at romance, but I kept comparing it to Mother-Daughter Murder Night by Nina Simon due to similar covers and both involving a grandmother-mother-daughter trio. I expected a darker story that was ultimately hopeful, but this is romance with more than one happily-ever-after.
Each woman is dealing with drama or trauma. Louise, the matriarch, is recovering from a broken leg sustained while dancing on a cruise ship, her daughter Zona is living with her to rebuild her finances after her ex-husband bankrupted her, and Bree, Zona's daughter, has sworn off men after watching both of her mother's marriages fail. When the handsome man next door and his houseguest act suspiciously, Louise takes notice and suspects foul play.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Courtney Patterson which kept me engaged with the story; I likely would have DNFd it in print. I would've enjoyed it more if my expectations better aligned with the plot.
Thank you to MIRA, Harlequin Audio, and Uplit Reads for complimentary copies; all opinions are my own.
Each woman is dealing with drama or trauma. Louise, the matriarch, is recovering from a broken leg sustained while dancing on a cruise ship, her daughter Zona is living with her to rebuild her finances after her ex-husband bankrupted her, and Bree, Zona's daughter, has sworn off men after watching both of her mother's marriages fail. When the handsome man next door and his houseguest act suspiciously, Louise takes notice and suspects foul play.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Courtney Patterson which kept me engaged with the story; I likely would have DNFd it in print. I would've enjoyed it more if my expectations better aligned with the plot.
Thank you to MIRA, Harlequin Audio, and Uplit Reads for complimentary copies; all opinions are my own.
September 26, 2025
First of all, I love the cover! It gives a little creepy but fun vibe which is perfect for this story. The characters liken the sights and sounds they see and hear next door to the movie Rear Window. Zona has moved in with her mother after her money has been wiped out by her second husband and his gambling habit. Zona’s daughter Bree has been affected by her college money being part of the “missing” money. The mother, Louise, has broken her leg at the beginning of a cruise and has to go back home to recuperate. Louise has plenty of time to spy on her new neighbor and the goings on at his house. She’s addicted to true crime shows and murder movies so her imagination is in full swing as she sits by her window, plus that house carries bad vibes.
Sheila Roberts is one of my very favorite authors and this novel was right up there as a top choice. And…no Robert’s novel is complete without a bit of romance, so there’s some of that too. It was a fun and interesting story that I fully enjoyed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review.
Sheila Roberts is one of my very favorite authors and this novel was right up there as a top choice. And…no Robert’s novel is complete without a bit of romance, so there’s some of that too. It was a fun and interesting story that I fully enjoyed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review.
October 18, 2025
The Man Next Door is a fun woman’s fiction story with lively gossip, humorous mishaps, chaos, wit, romance, and lots of flawed yet relatable characters. It’s a story about fresh starts with a dash of mystery and bungled family relationships added to the mix. There’s certainly a lot going on!
Although the story’s pace lagged in some sections, it picked up as I continued reading, making the scenes play out vividly like a movie in my head. I haven’t tried the audiobook, but I imagine it would be an entertaining listen.
Zona and Louise stood out, and the meddling and gossiping felt like indulging in a secret guilty pleasure. This book offers much more than a typical cozy mystery—it’s packed with fun and kept me entertained and engaged.
First Line: The house on Glenwood Avenue had taken on an air of darkness
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Author: Sheila Roberts
Page Count: 368
#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
Although the story’s pace lagged in some sections, it picked up as I continued reading, making the scenes play out vividly like a movie in my head. I haven’t tried the audiobook, but I imagine it would be an entertaining listen.
Zona and Louise stood out, and the meddling and gossiping felt like indulging in a secret guilty pleasure. This book offers much more than a typical cozy mystery—it’s packed with fun and kept me entertained and engaged.
First Line: The house on Glenwood Avenue had taken on an air of darkness
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Author: Sheila Roberts
Page Count: 368
#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
October 13, 2025
After her ex lost all their money gambling, including their daughter's college fund, Zona is forced too move back in with her mother. Penny-pinching while working at the DMV, coupon-clipping, and spying on the neighbor having become a part of her new life. It's hard not to be curious when the hot new neighbor gets into shouting matches with a mysterious woman, but when that woman disappears... the gossip and speculation starts.
I loved the family dynamic between these three ladies. We get the perspective from each one of them, and my favorite was Louise, stuck at home with nothing better to do than spy on the neighbors!
Her take on things as hilarious. This book was a little bit mystery, a little bit romance, and all chick lit fun. It did drag a little bit in the middle, but overall it was an enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary arc of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved the family dynamic between these three ladies. We get the perspective from each one of them, and my favorite was Louise, stuck at home with nothing better to do than spy on the neighbors!
Her take on things as hilarious. This book was a little bit mystery, a little bit romance, and all chick lit fun. It did drag a little bit in the middle, but overall it was an enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary arc of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 stars.
First, thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for a copy of this book!
Marking for spoilers just in case.
I may have just misunderstood what I was getting into, but I was expecting more “thriller.” I did like the cozy romance side of things, but I spent the whole book waiting for a thriller twist that just didn’t come. I loved the relationship of the three women at the core of the story, and I enjoyed how the story unfolded. Overall, though, it felt like something was missing — I think I wanted more of the mystery/thriller drama. If you go into it with the cozy romance perspective, this is a good read for sure!
First, thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for a copy of this book!
Marking for spoilers just in case.
I may have just misunderstood what I was getting into, but I was expecting more “thriller.” I did like the cozy romance side of things, but I spent the whole book waiting for a thriller twist that just didn’t come. I loved the relationship of the three women at the core of the story, and I enjoyed how the story unfolded. Overall, though, it felt like something was missing — I think I wanted more of the mystery/thriller drama. If you go into it with the cozy romance perspective, this is a good read for sure!
September 19, 2025
Zona, recently divorced and struggling financially due to her ex-husband's gambling addiction, has moved in with her widowed mother, Louise. Louise, a neighborhood busybody, always seems to know what's happening around her. When Alex James, a handsome man, moves in next door, Louise starts playing matchmaker for Zona, who has no interest in pursuing another relationship. Meanwhile, Alex has a woman staying at his house, and their loud, heated arguments have caught Louise's attention. Being a crime and mystery fanatic, Louise suspects something sinister might be going on next door.
November 25, 2025
The last 50 pages of this book were good. Unfortunately there were 300 pages before that.
This book was just SO slow. It is supposedly a “cozy mystery” but calling it a mystery is a big stretch. It was a “cozy hints of something mysterious that doesn’t come to pass.” I found Bree deeply unlikeable, Zona in need of a therapist, and Louise unwilling to admit she might be wrong about anything. The last bit was good but it was so slow paced, if I weren’t reading it for book club, I would have DNFed it before I got to the good part.
This book was just SO slow. It is supposedly a “cozy mystery” but calling it a mystery is a big stretch. It was a “cozy hints of something mysterious that doesn’t come to pass.” I found Bree deeply unlikeable, Zona in need of a therapist, and Louise unwilling to admit she might be wrong about anything. The last bit was good but it was so slow paced, if I weren’t reading it for book club, I would have DNFed it before I got to the good part.
October 6, 2025
The narration by Courtney Patterson was great. She gave the three women distinct voices and personalities. The narration was probably the reason I was able to stick with the book even though it really dragged.
I agree with other reviews that this book is not a mystery or thriller. It's not a romance novel either. Contemporary fiction is probably the best genre to describe it. It's not quite funny, not quite mysterious, not quite romantic. It's full of drama and trauma.
The inner monologues, especially Zona's, became repetitive. One of the romances is so undercooked. Zero reasons or buildup why the guy would be obsessed with Zona. I wasn't his fan when he started spouting outdated dog training. He also kept saying "I'm not mansplaining I'm just explaining." I wanted to double check that it wasn't a man that wrote this a few times. All the characters are slightly unlikeable. The best character and part of the book was the nurse and her dynamic with Louise.
Readers that enjoy multi-generational family dramas might like this. Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.
I agree with other reviews that this book is not a mystery or thriller. It's not a romance novel either. Contemporary fiction is probably the best genre to describe it. It's not quite funny, not quite mysterious, not quite romantic. It's full of drama and trauma.
The inner monologues, especially Zona's, became repetitive. One of the romances is so undercooked. Zero reasons or buildup why the guy would be obsessed with Zona. I wasn't his fan when he started spouting outdated dog training. He also kept saying "I'm not mansplaining I'm just explaining." I wanted to double check that it wasn't a man that wrote this a few times. All the characters are slightly unlikeable. The best character and part of the book was the nurse and her dynamic with Louise.
Readers that enjoy multi-generational family dramas might like this. Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.
October 14, 2025
While the narrator was fantastic, I prefer this as an ebook. There are alot of side characters and it was hard to keep track. While marketed as a cozy mystery, neither the romance nor mystery take center stage. It reads more like women's fiction. I would be interested to try this authors backlist.
December 11, 2025
This was a fun read. I like the three generations depicted, each with their own set of hopes, dreams, problems and frustrations.
The daughter/granddaughter got on my nerves a little, but have patience with her, she’s doing the best she knows how to based on her life thus far.
Louise is a hoot-her cruise experience and her helpful down-the-street neighbor were fun to read.
Zona is a hard worker who tries to help everyone but herself, but that new neighbor? She has a hard time reading his hot/cold personality, and did he really do away with the lady he was having a screaming match with? Zona has had her fill of men with problems and there’s no room in her life anyway. Maybe so, maybe not.
Louise, Zona, and Gilda let their imaginations run wild and it all makes sense until it doesn’t.
The daughter/granddaughter got on my nerves a little, but have patience with her, she’s doing the best she knows how to based on her life thus far.
Louise is a hoot-her cruise experience and her helpful down-the-street neighbor were fun to read.
Zona is a hard worker who tries to help everyone but herself, but that new neighbor? She has a hard time reading his hot/cold personality, and did he really do away with the lady he was having a screaming match with? Zona has had her fill of men with problems and there’s no room in her life anyway. Maybe so, maybe not.
Louise, Zona, and Gilda let their imaginations run wild and it all makes sense until it doesn’t.
July 21, 2026
Should have read the summary better because I thought this was a cozy mystery, but it leaned way more into the chick-lit/romance genre. There was nothing thrilling about this listen. I didn't love the characters, I thought many of them had poor judgement and the romance seemed forced.
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