Right Next Door: A Silver Fox Forbidden Romance

Stone Family #3

by Sophie Andrews

He’s a grumpy silver fox tattoo artist, and I’m the bookworm next door.

After being married for almost fifteen years, I never expected my husband to ask for an open marriage so we can "explore" and "find happiness."

I also never expected my hot older neighbor to be the one who dries my tears. He is every good girl's bad boy fantasy come to life. Well over six feet and covered in ink, he's got a gruff voice and attitude to match, but while he's been known to be a bear to other people, he's only ever a cub with me.

A summer fling with Ian Stone leads me down a path of self-discovery and kink exploration that destroys everything I thought I knew about myself, and what I want in a relationship. The deeper we tumble, the more I want him. But Ian has only ever promised me his hands and his mouth..

Genres: Romance, Friends To Lovers, BDSM, Small Town Romance, Found Family, Contemporary, He Falls First

304 pages, Paperback

Published August 17, 2025

Reviews

[Meaghan Messmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fucking infinity stars!!! Ian Stone is 1000% why I love men written by woman. Where can I find one, Amazon? He beat out my all time book boyfriend for the number one spot and also Zoe York- I could kiss you for making Sophie write this into a FULL book

[Lynn_G · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the book’s opening, bookstore owner Nicole is having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day: her husband of nearly two decades has announced he wants their marriage to be an open one, just before he’s about to leave on his annual summer work program. After some tentative research, she reluctantly agrees but her heart is breaking. While crying into her cinnamon roll on her work break, Ian, the gorgeous silver fox tattoo artist next door joins her and proceeds to tell her in no uncertain terms what a colossal a$$hat her husband is, and that she deserves so much better than that for which she’s settled. He also gifts her a tattoo, which she’d never been brave enough to get before.

While Nicole’s husband is away, ostensibly exploring his new chosen lifestyle, Nicole spends time with Ian and after discovering that he’s a pleasure Dom, she decides he’s exactly what she needs to reclaim her center and her s3xuality. Of course, their chemistry is off the charts, and Ian falls fast and hard for Nicole. But how can she take up with another man without clearing away the aftermath of her marriage first?

I really hate cheaters so I was quite leery of this particular book, but I should’ve known Sophie Andrews wouldn’t let me down. The angst Nicole experienced was authentic, and the way terms were communicated between her and her estranged husband threaded the ethical needle perfectly. Ian is a g0d among men, and Nicole blossomed under his care. The supporting characters were colorful and interesting as well, painting a vivid community vignette.

I was very fortunate to have been provided an advance reader copy by the author, and I’m pleased to share my honest review.

[Sundy Tr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicole & Ian. She is the town’s quiet and sweet bookshop girl at her 40s. He is a tattoo artist, the oldest Stone brother at his 50s.

I loved this book! I think it’s my favourite of Sophie’s work so far. There were emotions all over the place, struggles, self-discovery and some more kinky preferences.
I loved Ian. He was amazing with Nic, devoted to his family and eager to help those in need. And he sure had a lot of self-control 😉

Nicole is literally a woman next door. She suddenly went through a shock with her marriage that shook her to the core and made her rethink her life’s decisions with a little nudge and help from Ian.
I consider this a slow-burn book because the sparks were there long before the book begins. There is definitely chemistry between them and I felt their strong bond from the beginning to the end.

-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5

Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️ for me.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 ARC Review

What to expect:
📚 Grumpy x Sunshine
🐈 Age Gap
📚 Found Family
🐈 Single Dad with Adult Kids
📚 “Baby” and “Good Girl”
🐈 Friends to Lovers
📚 Dom/Sub Relationship
🐈 Tattoo Artist MMC
📚 Bookstore Owner FMC
🐈 FMC in An Open Marriage

I’ll be honest: I wasn’t 100% sold going in knowing Nicole was married, but this book turned out to be A-FREAKING-MAZING!

Ian is a goner for his girl from the get-go, and it’s so satisfying to witness Nicole’s growth. She’s been a lifelong people-pleaser, always accepting what she’s handed, but with Ian’s steady presence she starts realizing she deserves, and wants, more.

Honestly, I can’t think of a single negative thing about this book. Ian is chef’s kiss, Nicole is so relatable, Ian’s kids had me laughing out loud, and the Stone siblings are, as always, an absolute delight.

We finally meet Roman—the brother I’ve been dying to know more about—and now I’m counting the days to his book!

So, do yourself a favor and read “Right Next Door”. I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I did!

Thanks to the author for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💌

[Stephanie ✨]

4.25 - Thank you so much to Sophie Andrews for the complimentary copy of her book!

This book is out now!

I have been reading Sophie's books for awhile now and the prior book in this series sky rocketed to the top to being one of my favorites from her. So this one had a lot to live up to. Ian Stone was a top tier book boyfriend but I'm sorry Sophie, Dante still owns my heart.

"Give me something to read."
"You want a book?"
"Yeah. I want to read something you like. That book. I want to read that one."
"Really?"
"Of course. I want to know what you love."

This book was a different kind of romance for me in the sense that I am not used to romances that has a character in an open relationship as well as Dom/Submissive relationship. I am not sure if those types of books are for me but I love Sophie and I love her writing and trust that I would enjoy the way she would write it. And I did enjoy the overall story and thought the way she wrote what Nicole was going through in a way that really worked for a romance story.

Nicole and Ian have always been in each other's orbits but she was always unattainable as she is married but her husband told her he wanted to be in an open relationship. This rocked her world and Ian was the first person she opened up to what her ex husband suggested and Ian gave her some things to research and it took off from there. We do get dual perspectives and knowing how bad Ian has for Nicole, your heart can't help but crack a little for him as this woman who is still technically married is tethering this line. Nicole's world change when her husband suggested the open relationship but it also changed doing things with Ian that she never thought she could want for herself. And WHEWWW some of the things he has her do.

"My life has not been easy, but Nicole is...She is a quiet afternoon. She is a night under the stars. Warmth and sunshine, peace and calm."

Sophie is always has a way of writing spice and making it feel very intimate. Between the way she writes and the chemistry is just so so good! Always making me blush! All Ian wants is to please Nicole. Because of the stuff that Ian was having Nicole do (which I will not be divulging and you need to read for yourself), there was a huge amount of trust she had to put into Ian. And earning that trust brought them even closer together and made the tension really come through the pages as well.

Even though this type of romance isn't something I gravitate towards, I still really enjoyed it. I can't believe we are at the last sibling of the series! I cannot wait to meet the elusive Roman and to learn what cause him to retreat the way he did and then see him fall in love.

I recommend this if you are looking for a more kinkier romance, book store owner x tattoo shop owner, friends to lovers, single dad romance - give this one a read!

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was, in a word, awesome. You know those AITA posts where the guy writes in and he’s like “yeah, I asked my wife for an open marriage cause I wanted to sleep with other women and now she’s constantly going out on dates and hooking up with other people and I’m just sitting at home because no one wants to hook up with a 40 year old loser dude so how do I go back to a monogamous marriage PLEASE HELP I FUCKED AROUND AND NOW I’M IN THE FINDING OUT PHASE AND I’M FINDING OUT I DON’T LIKE IT” and literally all the comments are roasting him because, well, he FAFO’D too close to the sun? This is the book form of that.

39 yo old Nicole’s shitty college prof husband shocks her when he asks to open up their marriage right before he leaves for some research trip for a month. Obviously, she’s hurt and then, she does some research about ethical non-monogamy. Enter Ian, the 51 yo tattoo artist whose business is right next door to the book store Nicole owns. He’s been pining for her for ages and once he learns about Nicole’s shitty husband, well, let’s just say he shoots his shot. And Nicole is primed to finally live for herself instead of always trying to please others.

Setting aside the fact that this book is a dirty, filthy little delight of a romance, I adored the way Ian taught Nicole to stand up for herself and go after what she wanted and stop caring about what anyone else thought about her. It was gloriously sex positive but also just a great story about this shy woman who is a people pleaser learning to lean into her own desires. And when Ian rewards her for being such a good girl, well, I mean, that’s fun too.

It was hot and sexy and powerful.

[Laurel Ullman-bockert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tattooed silver Fox pleasure dom? Sign me up what’s not to love? Weasel of a husband FAFO. Sign me up.

[Baby Got Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rated up. I have never read this author before and well I was very happy now that I have!

This was really great! I loved being dropped into this small town with all its little (and not so little dramas)

This had a very interesting story plot with the MFC, Nicole, is married and has been married for like 15 years. What makes this doubly interesting is that its a pretty normal if boringly unsatisfying marriage and not like a on the run from an awful abusive terrible partner kinda marriage. So the kinda beige hubby drops the "I want to have an open marriage" bomb on Nicole. Basically to fuck around cuz hes bored but is comfortable with her and their life so he is the definition of wanting your cake and eating it too. (which the more I think about that phrase the less it makes sense how its written....mmm I need to research that). She freaks a bit, justifiably.

Nicole ends up spilling the situation to her fellow small biz owner, business neighbor, older tatted townie Ian. He tells her to do some actual research and have a real serious convo with Hubs, Prof. Vanilla Bean. She agrees to give it a go and warns that she is going to spend this time really exploring what she desires as Prof. Bland Husband is going on his annual summer month long work trip and is all DTF.

Enter her work neighbor buddy Ian. Another cool thing about this book is that both characters are older and act age appropriate. Ian, age 51, has been married and divorced, helped his single mom raise his younger siblings, has now early 20's children, his own tattoo shop. Nicole is 39 and while not necessarily kink experienced she has been married for 15 years, graduated college, runs her own bookstore and is very well rounded.

Some things I really enjoyed in this book:

-Discussion of ENM (ethical non-monogamy)

-So much edging! Lots of non-penetrative sexual action that was really engaging and felt natural for the evolution of their discovery and relationship.

-Book reports and foreplay. Also as relationship/kink exploration tool

-Nicole previously decided along with the husband they didn't want to have kids so she had permanent birth control (sterilization)

-Its not cheating!! They are on a break. ha ha ha no but seriously its agreed upon open marriage between two freaking adults so get with it

-Ian asks that their relationship by closed between the two of them as a boundary obviously except for her husband in relation to the open marriage agreements

-Costco kink! ha ha ha this was the realest

I also really appreciated the attention to how Nicole's exploration of being submissive and being in a more Dom/Sub daily lifestyle (not just like during sex but involving everyday dynamics) changed and improved other things in her life including her confidence and other relationships.

I thought that the outcome with Nicole's husband was really well done and realistic. It felt like neither person was a "villain" just two people married young that did not grow together and were both ultimately wanting different things from a relationship and marriage. Hurt feelings on both sides and messy emotions are represented. I liked that he wasn't just "the bad guy". (though very funny how he realizes with his time in the open marriage market how undesirable he was for the effort he put out there! Nice realization)

Overall I really enjoyed this book enough that I will go back and read the first two books in this series AND seriously can't wait for a book for Roman!

[The Sewist's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ 3.5
🌶️ 3
🥵 Spicy Chapters: 8, 12, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 30, 31
📚 Tropes/Themes: age gap, silver fox, tattooist MMC, bookshop owner FMC, soft Dom, BDSM, praise, good girl, marriage in trouble
👀 Dual POV 1st person
💔 Triggers: mention of adoption to have a child
🛍️ Available: now

💬 Well, I'm kind of torn on this book. There were a lot of things that I enjoyed like the romance and the plot itself. But a lot of the kink and spice weren't my jam.

The plot itself was fabulous. I enjoyed the "marriage and trouble/ let's open the marriage to fix it" plot and the romance between Ian and Nicole was toe curling and swoony and wonderful. And I just love a growly silver fox soft Dom 🥵🫦

This is also the only kind of age gap that I really enjoy. Nicole is 39 and Ian is 51, and that I can definitely get behind. What I don't usually enjoy is when one of the MCs is barely legal and then the other has been an adult for 25+ years. No shade to anybody who likes that. It's just not my thing.

But what I realized is, I guess I just am not a fan of the spice that was in this book. Or maybe it was that it was so repetitive? The kink sort of fell flat for me in terms of interest and I think I've talked about this before, but I just don't really enjoy when a book is mainly focused on oral and fingering. Like it's great that she had all those Os but a guy who continues denying himself doesn't do it for me and I genuinely think if I was in a relationship where that happened in real life I would leave 😂

I really feel like I should point out that the lack of PIV is actually pertinent to a plot, though, like it makes sense within the context of Andrews' story, so it's very much a "it's not you it's me" thing.

So like I said, I feel kind of neutral about this book. BUT I think the quality is there and the plot line was really good so. I think that most readers would enjoy this and I do recommend it

[Marcie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed this series. There hasn’t been a book in it yet that I have not loved, and Right Next Door is no different. This one is not a straightforward romance. It takes a tricky subject that must be hard to write about, knowing some readers will object, and makes it interesting and compelling and relatable.

There are so many dynamics and tropes at play here- bookstore owner and tattoo shop owner which gives good girl/bad boy vibes (even though Ian is a total sweetheart really), Bdsm and dom/sub dynamic but with a pleasure dom twist, and age gap with him being 50 and Nicole being 39.

Ian and Nicole were such great characters. Ian is a great dad and I loved the relationship he has with his kids. I liked watching Nicole become more assertive and confident as the book progresses. She really grew as a character by the end and it was fun to read.

I think there will ultimately be comments about this book having cheating from readers that just don’t “get it”. I think the author addresses it very clearly and fairly, and I truly don’t think it’s anything other than what the fictional husband set it out as. Obviously it was going to turn out this way, with her falling for Ian. There are no bad guys here. Would they have stayed married without his “open marriage” idea? Probably, but unhappily or at least never really knowing what real happiness was. I for one loved reading about something you don’t see often in romance books. I can’t wait for Roman’s book next in the Stone series.

Thank you to Sophie Andrews for an advance copy of the book for review.

[Tatiana · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars and rounding up.

This was a decent, fast-paced filler read with a good amount of steam and an emotional undercurrent about self-discovery, control, and what it means to really be seen by someone. The setup—wife blindsided by her husband’s request for an open marriage—opens the door for a month-long dom/sub exploration with the grumpy, silver fox tattoo artist next door. And Ian? Honestly, he was the standout. Protective, thoughtful, and craving love even while masking it under dominance.

Nicole's journey is centered on reclaiming her confidence, but for most of the book, she felt hard to root for. Her lack of communication and emotional withdrawal made me feel like Ian deserved more. Thankfully, the book avoids the typical third-act breakup, or "cheating/other man" trope, and ends with a resolution that leans into personal growth. The kink and intimacy arrive early and often—though it never crosses into full sex until the HEA.

It’s not a perfect romance, but it does dig into the messy, real parts of relationships—especially the emotional toll of being with someone who makes you feel small. If you like gruff-but-golden tattooed heroes and heroines reclaiming their power (with some kink along the way), this might scratch the itch, even if imperfect.

[KyrieMacReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of the Stone family, I think this Stone may be in the lead for favorite.

An Older, family-oriented, tattoo-owning Dom? Yeah. Ian's definitely a fave. I like that this is the second of the Stone men being the "single parent" instead of the woman. Let's talk about our girl Nicole. Married for umpteen years and her husband claims he's bored and wants to experiment with an open relationship. Nicole is a people-pleasing bookstore owner. Ian encourages Nicole to ask for what she wants (even though she may get told no). Also, love the rep of the FMC being intentionally child-free. This story is an interconnected standalone, and while the smut is there, it doesn't take over the story. Sophie has done it again with her small town charm, big heart story, and I can't wait to meet Roman and his little tag-along for their story.

[what_emmareadnext · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saw a quote of this book and downloaded it straight away and read it in one night. The premise behind the story line is slightly different, with Nicole’s husband requesting an “open relationship”. Initially she is hurt, but then agrees. In comes Ian Stone, the older, grumpy tattoo shop owner and I don’t think a more perfect man has ever been written! And to top it off, he’s a Dom. So he introduces Nicole to a dom/sub arrangement which quickly sees him losing his heart to this woman.
I like the dual POV because Ian is such a sweetheart and getting to read his thoughts as he falls for Nic was great.
Really enjoyable read!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all need an Ian Stone in our life and I was crushing on him so hard in this book. I love how Nicole and Ian were drawn to each other even before their relationship became anything. Reading about the two of them becoming a couple was everything a romance reader could wish for: he fell first and harder even though the mutual attraction was there from the start, there is plenty of spice and they have a community around them that loves them and supports them. Thank you to author Sophie Andrews for giving me the opportunity to read this early. It truly was my pleasure to read it!

[thebeespot72 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5

What is it about a Silver Fox? The one in Sophie Andrews’ Right Next Door is perfect. Ian, a tattoo artist and a pleasure d0m, ensures that Nicole’s needs are met. When Nicole’s husband proposes an open marriage, she thinks things are going from bad to worse. But Ian was there for her, wiping her tears and snot away. I disliked Nicole’s husband. Yes, we’re supposed not to like him. I loved Ian. Sophie Andrews wrote some great spicy scenes in this one, which was no surprise. And I liked how Nicole got stronger, and Ian supported that—right Next Door.

[lathifah (readbytifff) · Rating 5 out of 5]

[arc review]

I guess Sophie wasn't lying when she said this is the hottest book she's ever written, I mean— Ian Stone!!! The man that you are 😭❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥 I used to think Capt Stone is my #1 but I was so wrong. I swear Sophie has this ability to confuse us who's our favorite mmc from all her books bc that's happening to me.

you know what, I just knew I'd love this book and I do. so much.

[jada · Rating 2 out of 5]

what i liked about this book - h’s husband suggested open marriage and she did in fact move on with the H while he couldn’t find anyone to want him 😈😈 i love when men are humbled

what i disliked - “plain jane” h moves on from her husband, her only relationship and sexual partner to the H and becomes his submissive 🙄 pls lord why

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

sophie if you’re reading this PLEASE give ian’s kids a series thank you 🫶🏽

[Ale · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️
Age gap
Open marriage
Shy bookstore owner FMC
Tattoo artist MMC
Spicy lessons
No third act break up

[Crystal LoCicero · Rating 4 out of 5]

'It never even occurred to me to want more.'

This book was so good. It was different than most books out now. The characters were 40yrs old and 50yrs old. So, it's an age gap, but in a way that makes sense. The fmc is child free by choice. The mmc has grown children. The fmc is married, but there isn't cheating(because her husband asks for an open marriage). There is light sub/dom play, sneaking around, and a whole lot of a woman finding herself. I loved how Ian was always making Nicole ask for what she wanted. The Costco trip was so cute.

Throughout this book and series, we are getting fed little crumbs of the last Stone brother and that last chapter.. ahhhh. I can't wait for the next book! Ian's kids are all super fun, and I wonder if we will see them in the future.

This series has been all above 4 stars.

I received this book as an ARC, but the review is completely independent and reflects my genuine thoughts, feelings, and opinions.

[Melly Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right Next Door is one of those books that pulls you in with the promise of spice and delivers so much more. Nicole’s life is falling apart after her husband suggests an open marriage, and in steps Ian—the grumpy, tattooed silver fox neighbor who’s impossible to resist.

It’s a friends-to-lovers romance that’s equal parts emotional mess and scorching heat. Nicole’s journey of rediscovering herself and her desires felt raw, real, and honest. Ian was everything—gruff to the world, soft with her.

If you like small-town romances with grit, spice, and silver fox vibes, don’t miss this one.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who loves a tattooed silver fox dom?!! This lady! I’m sure once you meet Ian Stone in this book you will too!

Ian Stone is the oldest of the Stone brothers and is a tattoo artist and single dad. He owns the tattoo shop next door to the bookstore owned by shy book nerd Nicole who he has had his eye on for a while but he won’t pursue her because she’s married. One day he walks into the coffee shop where she’s sitting in a booth crying because her husband wants an open relationship before he leaves on a month long work trip she is devastated. She’s upset but when Ian tells her that her husband is an idiot and she deserves better she sees Ian in a different light.

With her husband away she spends time with Ian and begins exploring a dom/sub relationship with him. She gets a tattoo and begins doing things for herself and realizes that this is what she wants. She soon finds this is exactly what her marriage was missing and she was unhappy for a long time and she wants more with Ian.

I loved these two together their chemistry was electric. Ian is falling for her and she knows he’s the man she needed. I love how Nicole blossomed throughout this story and reclaimed her true identity that she felt she lost after getting married.

Thank you Sophie Andrews for the eARC of this book! I can’t wait for the next one!

[Serena Dale · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.75⭐️
Loved this book! This series is just getting better and better!!
I loved how patient Ian was with Nicole...but would also punish ;) her if she didn't do something the way he wanted her to! I want to go on a Costco date with Ian....I've done my stretches I'm ready!!
Nicole was a great FMC, I really loved her character and thought she was very relatable.
Ian and Nicole were fire and wanted more!!

I can't wait for Roman's story and to find out more about the mysterious brother.

[Naylah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5⭐
Spice: 3🌶️
FMC: Nicole Kelly
MMC: Ian Stone

I was honestly pleasantly surprised with this story. In Just This Once, there was a hint about who Ian Stone was interested in, but other than that I went in blindly. I don't think i've ever read a storyline like this one, and I have to say that I really enjoyed it..

Ian is a man with a hard exterior but also has a heart of gold towards the people he loves. He's a grumpy man with a soft side for Nicole. He adores her, and he believes in her.

Nicole is a sweet woman who wants to please everyone. She never says no and pushes herself aside for others. Until her husband comes with an idea that throws her whole life upside down. Then Ian comes along and shows her that she is her own person, that she is allowed to be mistress of herself.

While Nicole goes through a rough time, Ian is there along the way. They get to know each other, Nicole learns more about herself and finds her own voice, finally being allowed to be and do what she wants. She finds her wings and learns to fly with Ian by her side.

The connection between Ian and Nicole was immediately on, and you could really feel along with their emotions. The tension was intense, and towards the end, the fireworks definitely went off between them.

Again, I really enjoyed the family setting of the Stone Family. They are all so supportive of each other and always showing each other love and inviting new people with open arms. You can really tell they are a close family who love deeply.

Now i’m definitely curious about Roman’s story. In all of them, there have been little hints about his life, but other than that, we know nothing about the last Stone brother, except for the little extra teaser we got this time around. A teaser that made me even more excited, and it made me shriek when I read it.

I wanna thank Sophie Andrews again for gifting me an advanced reading copy to read and review her book early. I really appreciate it ❤️

Tropes:
🟤 single dad
🟤 friends to lovers
🟤 age gap
🟤 small town
🟤 forbidden romance
🟤 dom/sub relationship
🟤 grumpy x sunshine
🟤 dual first person pov

Quotes:
‘Write your troubles in the sand and carve your blessings in stone.’
‘He looks like every good girl’s fantasy of a bad boy come to life.’
‘A silent promise of my own. That, when she’s ready, i’ll be here to give her everything. My heart and my future, it’s all hers.’
’Tell me you love me. Tell me you’ll sleep in my bed. Tell me you’re mine for good. Forever.’
”I’m yours, Nicole. Whenever you’re ready.”

[Emmalita · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think Sophie Andrews is good at angsty emotional escapes, and I’m glad she’s embracing it. I do really appreciate when authors stretch themselves, even when it doesn’t work, and I’m always going to embrace Sophie Andrews’s progressive values.

Nicole is thrown into an existential crisis when her husband asks to open their marriage shortly before he leaves for a month of field work. She’s always been well behaved and hates the thought of being the subject of gossip. In the previous two books in the series, it’s clear that Ian Stone has a thing for Nicole, who owns the bookstore next to his tattoo shop. Ian doesn’t pursue women in relationships, so he’s planned on yearning. When Ian finds Nicole crying into a cinnamon roll at the bakery, he gives her some suggestions for research and tells her she is stronger than she thinks she is. After doing some reading, Nicole lets her husband know that she sees his request as a sign that he has a problem with her and their marriage, but she agrees to a trial period and they will reassess at the end of the summer. If her husband wants to explore outside of their marriage, Nicole sees no reason to stay in her good girl box.

Ian is a yearning fool. He will bend his own rules to have whatever time with Nicole he can get, even though he doesn’t expect she will want to jump from her marriage into another long term committed relationship. even if she leaves her husband at the end of the summer, which is not guaranteed. Nicole wants to explore, and Ian wants to help her, within some agreed on parameters – he will be in charge of the power exchange, and they will keep it secret so that there’s no gossip. Of course things get messy, in fun ways and not so fun ways. Over the weeks of their agreed upon adventure time, Nicole grows in self confidence and Iam realizes how much he has locked down to take care of his kids and protect himself from hurt. I like the way Andrews gives them both room to grow.

Throughout the book, there are interstitials with Ian trying to stay connected to his younger brother. The next (final?) book in the series will be the youngest Stone sibling, Roman. I’m interested to see where Andrews takes his story.

I received this as an advance reader copy from the author. My opinions are my own, freely and honestly given.

[Priscilla Herchold · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this the day I received it. Loooooooord, save me from the man that is Ian Stone!

It's just so good. Ian and Nicole are both amazingly developed characters who you root for entire time. Why are we rooting for them? Because Nicole's crappy husband decides he wants an open marriage, absolutely crushing Nicole in the process as it came out of left field. Ian is right there to pick up the pieces, having always been sweet on Nicole.

Embarking on the adventure of an ethical open marriage while keeping a secret from their nosy but well-meaning friends, Ian finds himself breaking his no-sharing rule. Because let's be honest... there is always a chance the crappy husband wins at the end and hearts could be broken.

Nicole is just so sweet and loving, to her husband, to her friends, to her bookstore cat, and now especially to Ian. And Ian... he's dominant, possessive, and caring, pushing Nicole's boundaries, not just in the bedroom, but also to help her become confident and take a stand for herself. And their spicy scenes? Someone hand me a fan!

As a note: this is the third book in a series. I haven't read any of the others. There are references to things that happen in the other books; however, enough information is given so you're not stumbling along. Ian and Nicole are the sole focus.

The ethical open marriage did push my comfort zone but 2025 is all about stepping outside my little box. Andrews does it in a way where it's explained, it's emotional, and it fits the characters. It's not there just to be there.

This just checked so many boxes for me and I wish there was more Ian & Nicole!

💜 grumpy silver fox
💜 sunshine girl next door
💜 single dad with adult kids
💜 found family
💜 “baby”
💜 s*x after tattoo scene

Thank you to the author for the gifted copy!

[Catie M | SmuttyCocktails · Rating 5 out of 5]

How does the Stone Family keep getting better? I truly thought Taryn's book was going to be the peak, but then Ian Stone walked in, and I am never going to be the same. Don't worry, you still get to have cameos from Griffin, Taryn, and of course everyone's favorite Dante, but trust me, once you start in on Ian, nothing else matters. Ian is everything. He takes care of everyone around him not out of obligation but out of love. He loves hard for his people even if they drive him crazy. The way that man supports others and talks Nicole through it—I mean, come on, what more could you want? This book was so hot and so freaking good. The banter between these two was perfection. The way Sophie edges you through this one, I was screaming. Truly this woman has mastered the art of writing spice. This book didn't just have spice; it had a relationship full of devotion and trust. It wasn't just a casual attempt at BDSM; it was a real relationship built on trust and time. Ian helps Nicole discover herself and become the master of her own life. I think Nicole is so relatable for so many of us who have become complacent and happy to please others while watching ourselves suffer. Getting to read her ask for what she wanted and allowing herself to want! Self-care is not selfish, and becoming your own mistress is what it's all about. I am so excited for Roman's book, but boy does he have some giant shoes to fill because I'm never moving on from Ian.
4.5/5 stars 3/5 spice
If you love these tropes you need to read this book
Found family
Age Gap
Silver fox
Pleasure Dom
Forced proximity
Forbidden Romance

[Minnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

4.5⭐|2🌶|19% frequency

OK, Ian is officially the oldest MMC I've read (immortal excluded) 😎 And still he is 🔥 With all his tattoos, his beard, and all the muscles 🥵He is definitely quite a character, too.

Yes, Nicole is married. BUT she is NOT cheating on her husband. Her husband is an idiot. He wants an open marriage. No, that doesn't make him an idiot, but he doesn't want to include Nicole in whatever he will do. So he just wants to f around and wants a free pass for it. So, with that, sure, she can do it, too 😁

One thing I love about Sophie's books is that she always puts something "political" in them. She already had book banning in one, but with Nicole being a bookstore owner, it had to be book-related too again 😉 And it was a "Drag Queen Story Hour" 🩷 Of course, for kids. I love it. Honestly, kids love to dress up, so drag queens are just perfect for kids. No, they don't bite. No, they don't turn kids into anything. And no, they are not ped0ph!Ies!!! Nobody cared about clowns, but drag queens are bad??? 🙄 The son of an acquaintance is a drag queen. Unfortunately, I never met him in person, but I still like what I see of him on social media.

OK, I again drifted away from a "typical" review, but I still don't care 😎 That's how my reviews are.

I'm now trying to be patient while I wait for the next book in this series 🤩
And I hope there will be books about Ian's "kids", too soon 🤞They are in their 20s already 😉

Thanks to the author for trusting me with an ARC 🩷


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[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicole is a quiet and sweet bookstore owner. Her husband asks for a break, one in which they can date and sleep with other people, and she’s hit like a train by the idea, she’s obviously upset. She was completely blindsided that he felt that way. They’ve been married for 15 years, she felt it was all kind of unexciting and routine, but that’s what a lot of people feel, right? Not for her husband apparently. Nicole is drowning her feelings in a cinnamon bun in Sweet Cheeks, a bakery in the block near her bookstore when Ian Stone, tattoo artist and bookstore neighbour sees her crying and asks how everything is going. She confides in him a bit and he asks her to do some research on polyamory and consensual non-monogamy. Research is right up her alley and she knocks it out of the park. She tells her husband her rules and boundaries and they decide to give this experiment a few weeks. Meanwhile, she can’t stop thinking about hunky, tattooed, gorgeous pleasure dom, Ian Stone. I can’t either. That man was a total 10 as written. Every Sophie Andrews MMC is a total love and Ian might be the best of them all. He’s direct, patient, supportive and a total consent king. Heck yes. He’s also totally into Nicole and has noticed her for a long time, but he doesn’t do cheating so he never approached her. They decide to slowly introduce Nicole into a bit of a sub role and she discovers parts of herself that she wasn’t aware she had. She discovers she likes completing tasks to make her dom happy and she also likes to be a bit of a brat sometimes too. She’s not so bland after all. I loved following her growth and I loved reading about Ian guiding her while also being so respectful and patient. Nicole struggles with the idea of it all. She takes awhile to figure out what she wants. Ian struggles because he wants Nicole and isn’t sure what is going to happen when their time is up. Their journey is a beautiful one.

I finished this book a little while ago and I needed to gather my thoughts before writing a review. I was initially kind of hesitant about the premise of it, but it ended up being so comforting and well thought out. Even with my initial hesitancy about the subject (is it going to feel like cheating? Is my heart going to be hurt?) I knew that Sophie would never steer me wrong so I went into it with an open mind and was not disappointed at all. It was a really lovely story and totally unique to me. Read the trigger warnings but know that it felt very respectfully done to me. So much love was there. I have never read anything like this before. I found it very respectful and I ended the book with a huge smile on my face.

I received an advance copy of this book in return for my honest review.

[Hali Hegeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved every second of this romance! Sophie Andrews wrote a beautiful book about finding yourself and finding love, and I need everyone to pick it up right now!

Right Next Door is a grumpy x sunshine, single dad, age gap, forced proximity romance between Nicole and Ian.

I could really relate to Nicole. She’s had her world turned upside down by someone she loves in the beginning of the book, and afterwards, she needs to take some time to find herself again, after losing herself to being what everyone else wants her to be for them. I loved how she came into her own, standing up for herself and what she wants, and having the confidence to stand on her own. I loved how she learns to trust and love again with Ian, and I think so many readers will relate to her.

Ian is one of my favorite MMCs maybe ever. I loved how incredibly patient he is with Nicole, and how he loves to be there for her in whatever way she needs him. The way he protects her, listens to her, is there for her, and would do absolutely anything for her if it meant she was happy, is exactly what everyone deserves from a relationship. He has such a big heart, and loves Nicole and his family more than anything. Everyone will absolutely adore him and his relationship with Nicole.

Thank you so much @authorsophieandrews for my arc! I love this series so much, and I can’t wait to see what you have planned for us next.

Right Next Door is now available in KU💗