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Kendrick Place #2
The Bad Boy Next Door
"A sweet tale of love, romance and understanding." Carly Phillips, NY Times Bestselling Author
Shay Matthews moved to Boston for a fresh start...new apartment, new job, new routine. After too many years being coddled by her overbearing older brothers, Shay’s ready for some freedom and maybe a nice, easygoing guy. She wasn’t expecting to literally run into the scowling, brooding, (and unfairly smoking hot) guy next door.
Fresh off a haunting undercover assignment, detective Wyatt Daniels is jaded about life, relationships, and especially happily-ever-after. But there’s something about the independent and beautiful Shay that makes him want to dig deeper. Or stay away, which is definitely the smarter option of the two.
But the more Shay tries to convince herself that her sweet building manager, Brady, is the guy for her, the more Mr. Completely Wrong-for-Her Wyatt invades her mind and her heart.
Each title in the Kendrick series is a standalone story that can be read out of order.
Book 1 – More than Friends
Book 2- The Bad Boy Next Door
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2017
20 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Jody Holford
45 books648 followersa wife* a mom* a reader and a writer* a friend* a daughter* a teacher* a sister* a blogger and follower* a worrier and word twister* a gemini*
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 19, 2017
This is a fun, light hearted read with a touch of suspense thrown in for good measure. It is the second book in the series but works well as a standalone, too.
Being the youngest sister with three older brothers means that for all of her life Shay Matthews has had them checking out she's okay, protecting her and she's had enough. Deciding it is time she took control of her own life and had some freedom, she's moved to Boston, secretly planning to set up her own events planning business. Brady, the building manager for the building where containing her new flat, seems sweet and caring, ready to help when necessary but he warns her off the neighbour she literally ran into, Wyatt Daniels. Wyatt, however, is a severe temptation to Shay, making her feel things she'd never felt before. He's a detective returning from traumatic experiences whilst working undercover. He's still skittish, brooding and definitely not ready for a relationship as he's struggling to readjust to 'normal' life- but fate has other plans for these two!
The story has plenty of drama with a mystery attacker, drug dealer and a diverse group of neighbours. The author sets a steady pace, keeping the action flowing and the reader entertained. Breaking down self built protective barriers is never easy but the rewards of trusting and taking a chance on love can be tremendous. In this story, it can take you to the sun, moon and stars and back but you'll just have to read it yourself to discover where that reference fits in with the story!
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a cute, light hearted romance with just a little suspense added for extra taste!
Thanks to the publisher for enabling me to read a copy of this via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
Being the youngest sister with three older brothers means that for all of her life Shay Matthews has had them checking out she's okay, protecting her and she's had enough. Deciding it is time she took control of her own life and had some freedom, she's moved to Boston, secretly planning to set up her own events planning business. Brady, the building manager for the building where containing her new flat, seems sweet and caring, ready to help when necessary but he warns her off the neighbour she literally ran into, Wyatt Daniels. Wyatt, however, is a severe temptation to Shay, making her feel things she'd never felt before. He's a detective returning from traumatic experiences whilst working undercover. He's still skittish, brooding and definitely not ready for a relationship as he's struggling to readjust to 'normal' life- but fate has other plans for these two!
The story has plenty of drama with a mystery attacker, drug dealer and a diverse group of neighbours. The author sets a steady pace, keeping the action flowing and the reader entertained. Breaking down self built protective barriers is never easy but the rewards of trusting and taking a chance on love can be tremendous. In this story, it can take you to the sun, moon and stars and back but you'll just have to read it yourself to discover where that reference fits in with the story!
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a cute, light hearted romance with just a little suspense added for extra taste!
Thanks to the publisher for enabling me to read a copy of this via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
February 10, 2017
ARC provided by NetGalley and publisher for honest review.
Unfortunately this just didn't work for me.
Short synopsis. Shay wants a fresh start away from her overbearing brothers, so she moves to Boston. Her plans are to start an event planning business. Wyatt was a detective who just finished a long and disturbing undercover assignment that left him feeling mentally and emotionally drained. Both live in the same apartment building, with Shay having just moved in. The two meet and find they get on each others nerves and don't really like each other. She's miss sunshine and he's mister moody and always brooding.
The story was about Shay gaining her independence, Wyatt adjusting to "normal" life and all about apartment living. Shay was more of a one demential character and didn't seem to have much depth. Wyatt was a little better with a little more layers to his character. The two just never seemed to connect and didn't come across as a believable couple pairing. Felt I was reading more about what transpired with individuals who lived in an apartment complex, with an added romance thrown in.
Unfortunately this just didn't work for me.
Short synopsis. Shay wants a fresh start away from her overbearing brothers, so she moves to Boston. Her plans are to start an event planning business. Wyatt was a detective who just finished a long and disturbing undercover assignment that left him feeling mentally and emotionally drained. Both live in the same apartment building, with Shay having just moved in. The two meet and find they get on each others nerves and don't really like each other. She's miss sunshine and he's mister moody and always brooding.
The story was about Shay gaining her independence, Wyatt adjusting to "normal" life and all about apartment living. Shay was more of a one demential character and didn't seem to have much depth. Wyatt was a little better with a little more layers to his character. The two just never seemed to connect and didn't come across as a believable couple pairing. Felt I was reading more about what transpired with individuals who lived in an apartment complex, with an added romance thrown in.
March 17, 2017
3.5 Stars!
Wyatt is a detective who's just come off of undercover work and he's struggling with adjusting back to society. He's the kind of alpha I like to read about. He's tough, protective but standoffish. He meets Shay and is instantly attracted but doesn't think he's in the right mind to do anything about it. There was a lot of pushing away by Wyatt and he did struggle with communicating with Shay.
Shay is breaking away from her overprotective family to start out on her own. She admitted she's been spoiled her whole life and wants this chance to make it on her own. Despite being spoiled, she came off as responsible and capable but also too headstrong and stubborn. A woman should not complain about her man wanting to protect and care for her. I did like how upfront and honest she was with Wyatt and she didn't become a doormat.
I would have liked Wyatt to have stopped the pushing away sooner in the story and for Shay to be just a bit less stubborn about his protectiveness. Overall, I'm a fan of this author and what I've read from her so far. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
Wyatt is a detective who's just come off of undercover work and he's struggling with adjusting back to society. He's the kind of alpha I like to read about. He's tough, protective but standoffish. He meets Shay and is instantly attracted but doesn't think he's in the right mind to do anything about it. There was a lot of pushing away by Wyatt and he did struggle with communicating with Shay.
Shay is breaking away from her overprotective family to start out on her own. She admitted she's been spoiled her whole life and wants this chance to make it on her own. Despite being spoiled, she came off as responsible and capable but also too headstrong and stubborn. A woman should not complain about her man wanting to protect and care for her. I did like how upfront and honest she was with Wyatt and she didn't become a doormat.
I would have liked Wyatt to have stopped the pushing away sooner in the story and for Shay to be just a bit less stubborn about his protectiveness. Overall, I'm a fan of this author and what I've read from her so far. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
March 24, 2017
✱5 STARS!✱
☾One of those books that has grammar mistakes and a lot of drama in the plot, but I love anyways. I saw a lot of 3 star ratings for this book for whatever reason. It may not be a 5 star book for some people's standards, but I couldn't stop reading it and that's enough for me! Besides, who doesn't love a hot cop?
☾One of those books that has grammar mistakes and a lot of drama in the plot, but I love anyways. I saw a lot of 3 star ratings for this book for whatever reason. It may not be a 5 star book for some people's standards, but I couldn't stop reading it and that's enough for me! Besides, who doesn't love a hot cop?
February 5, 2017
“The Bad Boy Next Door” feels like a complete misnomer for a rather light-hearted story between a detective and a coddled young woman attempting to find her feet in a new city. But I pushed on, wondering if this was going to be part-suspense, part rom-com and for me, it was really neither as it wasn’t a story that resonated with me at all. Much like a drama centred on a building and its occupants, Shay and Wyatt get pushed together mostly because of proximity and a series of events that neither could have foreseen.
As far as pairings go, it was hard to see Shay and Wyatt as a convincing (and likely) couple because they did seem like a forced pairing. As they were so far apart in terms of experience and personality, I found myself constantly looking for the spark or the strong tie between them but there seemed to be nothing apart from the inexplicable inability to forget each other after an accidental meeting in the basement. But while attraction does and can work in mysterious ways, most of their relationship also felt bland as they tried to find their footing with each other because of the vast differences in their outlook on life. In fact, Wyatt seemed drawn to Shay because she represented the innocent part of life that his months of undercover work took from him; Shay’s reasons for wanting him seemed more nebulous to me apart from him being the grumpy but nice guy next door. Shay did seem too naive however, and too coddled and sensitive for the secretive nature of Wyatt’s work—her own hysterics and tendency to jump to conclusions caused the usual rift at the end…and yet it was Wyatt who found he needed to apologise for being the unfeeling tool.
It’s hard to recommend a book when nothing worked in the story for me, but unfortunately, this was one of those that I needed to pass on.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
As far as pairings go, it was hard to see Shay and Wyatt as a convincing (and likely) couple because they did seem like a forced pairing. As they were so far apart in terms of experience and personality, I found myself constantly looking for the spark or the strong tie between them but there seemed to be nothing apart from the inexplicable inability to forget each other after an accidental meeting in the basement. But while attraction does and can work in mysterious ways, most of their relationship also felt bland as they tried to find their footing with each other because of the vast differences in their outlook on life. In fact, Wyatt seemed drawn to Shay because she represented the innocent part of life that his months of undercover work took from him; Shay’s reasons for wanting him seemed more nebulous to me apart from him being the grumpy but nice guy next door. Shay did seem too naive however, and too coddled and sensitive for the secretive nature of Wyatt’s work—her own hysterics and tendency to jump to conclusions caused the usual rift at the end…and yet it was Wyatt who found he needed to apologise for being the unfeeling tool.
It’s hard to recommend a book when nothing worked in the story for me, but unfortunately, this was one of those that I needed to pass on.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
August 25, 2017
Three and a half stars.
Shay Matthews moves to Boston to set up her own event planning company and get out from under her over-protective family. On the day she moves into her new apartment Kendrick Place, she meets two very different men who also live in the apartment block. Brady, the pro-temps apartment manager who seems like a nice, kind, open guy, and Wyatt, Mr Tall, Dark and Broody. Guess which one gets Shay's heart pounding?
This is the second book in the Kendrick Place series, following More Than Friends. We get to see Owen and Gabby from that book in this one too. Also the issues relating to the former apartment manager and ransacking the communal storage area have not gone away.
Wyatt Daniels has just ended a long stint of undercover work. Taciturn by nature, the things he has had to let slide in order to maintain his cover have sickened him and he is finding it difficult to re-assimilate into normal life. The last thing he needs is the little ray of sunshine that has moved into the apartment building hanging around, but despite himself he worries about her and her blithe ignorance of personal safety.
Jody Holford writes engaging characters and a fun romance with a soupcon of suspense thrown in as leavening. I did feel that the final quarter of the book dragged a little but that was just a personal view.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Shay Matthews moves to Boston to set up her own event planning company and get out from under her over-protective family. On the day she moves into her new apartment Kendrick Place, she meets two very different men who also live in the apartment block. Brady, the pro-temps apartment manager who seems like a nice, kind, open guy, and Wyatt, Mr Tall, Dark and Broody. Guess which one gets Shay's heart pounding?
This is the second book in the Kendrick Place series, following More Than Friends. We get to see Owen and Gabby from that book in this one too. Also the issues relating to the former apartment manager and ransacking the communal storage area have not gone away.
Wyatt Daniels has just ended a long stint of undercover work. Taciturn by nature, the things he has had to let slide in order to maintain his cover have sickened him and he is finding it difficult to re-assimilate into normal life. The last thing he needs is the little ray of sunshine that has moved into the apartment building hanging around, but despite himself he worries about her and her blithe ignorance of personal safety.
Jody Holford writes engaging characters and a fun romance with a soupcon of suspense thrown in as leavening. I did feel that the final quarter of the book dragged a little but that was just a personal view.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
March 20, 2017
ARC provided by publisher.
I’ve been excited for The Bad Boy Next Door ever since I read the first book in this series, More Than Friends. And while this book was a decent read, it wasn’t quite what I was hoping for. Wyatt was introduced in book one as one of the residents as Kendrick Place, and he was very growly. Well, it’s a damn good thing I like growly heroes, because that growliness was in full force in this book. Wyatt is just about the growliest hero I’ve ever read. (That’s FOUR ‘growlies’ for anyone keeping tally – five now!) I loved that he’d recently come out from being undercover and how he was having a hard time making the adjustment back to his ‘regular’ life after the things horrific things he’d seen, and the betrayal he felt from one of his informants. Wyatt wasn’t so jaded when he went undercover, but he had trust issues galore after what happened, and it didn’t work out so well for Shay. Shay was a likable character, and I think she’s someone I’d even like for a friend. But I don’t understand why everyone around her had their protective instincts kick in when she was around. It felt very much like a contrivance because Shay’s ‘thing’ was getting away from her family to be more independent. And I understand that, but there were times her determination to be independent got on my nerves when there were much better solutions available than going something alone. It was sheer stubbornness, and it’s adorable in the two year old I babysit, but not so much a grown woman I’m reading about.
What I find is often the case for me in Contemporary Romance is that Shay was an average heroine. Which I am fine with, but there has to be something (especially when we get the hero’s perspective,) that makes her extraordinary in the eyes of her hero. I didn’t get that here. Also, there was so much build up to how sexy Wyatt was, and then the sex scenes were…fade to black. I even had to go back and read the first one because…ahem…I’d missed it. I wish sexy Wyatt hadn’t been so fade to black, because I think there was a lot of heat to be had between those sheets of his.
Of course this book introduced us to a few new people who could be prospective players in the next few books, and I may stick around for them. I did enjoy Wyatt’s character very much, I just wish he’d been fleshed out a bit more, so it makes me want to read more from the author. Overall, The Bad Boy Next Door was a good read, and if you enjoyed the first one in the series, I think you’ll find things about this one to enjoy.
This review was originally posted on Books & Beauty Are My Bag.
I’ve been excited for The Bad Boy Next Door ever since I read the first book in this series, More Than Friends. And while this book was a decent read, it wasn’t quite what I was hoping for. Wyatt was introduced in book one as one of the residents as Kendrick Place, and he was very growly. Well, it’s a damn good thing I like growly heroes, because that growliness was in full force in this book. Wyatt is just about the growliest hero I’ve ever read. (That’s FOUR ‘growlies’ for anyone keeping tally – five now!) I loved that he’d recently come out from being undercover and how he was having a hard time making the adjustment back to his ‘regular’ life after the things horrific things he’d seen, and the betrayal he felt from one of his informants. Wyatt wasn’t so jaded when he went undercover, but he had trust issues galore after what happened, and it didn’t work out so well for Shay. Shay was a likable character, and I think she’s someone I’d even like for a friend. But I don’t understand why everyone around her had their protective instincts kick in when she was around. It felt very much like a contrivance because Shay’s ‘thing’ was getting away from her family to be more independent. And I understand that, but there were times her determination to be independent got on my nerves when there were much better solutions available than going something alone. It was sheer stubbornness, and it’s adorable in the two year old I babysit, but not so much a grown woman I’m reading about.
What I find is often the case for me in Contemporary Romance is that Shay was an average heroine. Which I am fine with, but there has to be something (especially when we get the hero’s perspective,) that makes her extraordinary in the eyes of her hero. I didn’t get that here. Also, there was so much build up to how sexy Wyatt was, and then the sex scenes were…fade to black. I even had to go back and read the first one because…ahem…I’d missed it. I wish sexy Wyatt hadn’t been so fade to black, because I think there was a lot of heat to be had between those sheets of his.
Of course this book introduced us to a few new people who could be prospective players in the next few books, and I may stick around for them. I did enjoy Wyatt’s character very much, I just wish he’d been fleshed out a bit more, so it makes me want to read more from the author. Overall, The Bad Boy Next Door was a good read, and if you enjoyed the first one in the series, I think you’ll find things about this one to enjoy.
This review was originally posted on Books & Beauty Are My Bag.
March 26, 2017
3.5 stars
The Bad Boy Next Door was a sweet, fun and entertaining read.
I enjoyed the storyline, it was well written, the drama wasn't over the top and my interest was held all throughout the book.
Wyatt and Shay were likable and entertaining characters and while I enjoyed watching them get together and did believe in their love I just wished I felt a little more passion from them.
Overall, The Bad Boy Next Door is a lovely Sunday afternoons read.
The Bad Boy Next Door is the second book from the Kendrick Place series, each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them.
*Purchase Links*
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Next-Door-...
B&N - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-b...
*Thank you to Entangled Bliss via NetGalley for the advance copy*
The Bad Boy Next Door was a sweet, fun and entertaining read.
I enjoyed the storyline, it was well written, the drama wasn't over the top and my interest was held all throughout the book.
Wyatt and Shay were likable and entertaining characters and while I enjoyed watching them get together and did believe in their love I just wished I felt a little more passion from them.
Overall, The Bad Boy Next Door is a lovely Sunday afternoons read.
The Bad Boy Next Door is the second book from the Kendrick Place series, each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them.
*Purchase Links*
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Next-Door-...
B&N - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-b...
*Thank you to Entangled Bliss via NetGalley for the advance copy*
January 31, 2017
Absolutely loved this continuation of Kendrick Place. When I saw there was a second book, I all but shouted, "Sign me up!"
Holford didn't disappoint. A light, fun read. Definitely recommend!
Holford didn't disappoint. A light, fun read. Definitely recommend!
March 24, 2017
meeh insta love nya itu -.-
March 23, 2017
Shay wants to make it on her own. Her family is protective and they like to do everything for her, but she wants to prove she can also achieve something without them. That's why it's time for a new beginning. She's started a business and she's moved into her own apartment. She wants to be carefree and isn't looking for a relationship, but when she meets her neighbor Wyatt she can't help but feel something for him. He isn't the lighthearted fun type of guy though, will Shay follow her heart or are her dreams for the future standing in the way?
Wyatt works for the police. He accepted an undercover job that went wrong in many different ways and his confidence has taken quite a blow because of it. His heart has been bruised and he isn’t looking for either friendship or love, but then he meets Shay. She’s a ray of sunshine and that appears to be exactly what he needs. However, there’s someone else in the building who likes Shay as well and Brady is Wyatt’s exact opposite. Brady seems so much better for Shay. Will Wyatt have a chance and is he prepared to go after a woman again after having his heart broken so badly?
The Bad Boy Next Door is a great romantic story. Even though Wyatt doesn’t seem like Shay’s type he’s perfect for her. He’s thoughtful and grounded and under a broody exterior he hides an adorable sweetness and wonderful generous personality. I loved him from the start, he’s a troubled man with a good heart. Shay brings him the happiness he needs so badly. I loved her determination to be independent. She’s trying to survive on her own and her friendly character makes it easy to like her. She’s had a protective upbringing, but she wants more for herself than just being coddled and helped with everything. I admired that about her. Wyatt treats her with respect and kindness and she brings him warmth, lightness and cheerfulness. They perfectly complement one another and are a really cute couple.
Jody Holford writes about a lively building with interesting people. Kendrick Place is an amazing setting for a series. It was fun to read about the building itself and its inhabitants. Jody Holford’s detailed descriptions make it come to life very well. There’s quite a bit of drama going on in the basement and it was fascinating to see where it would lead. I enjoyed reading about the intrigues in the lives of the main characters combined with true love. The Bad Boy Next Door is a lovely charming read with endearing main characters.
Wyatt works for the police. He accepted an undercover job that went wrong in many different ways and his confidence has taken quite a blow because of it. His heart has been bruised and he isn’t looking for either friendship or love, but then he meets Shay. She’s a ray of sunshine and that appears to be exactly what he needs. However, there’s someone else in the building who likes Shay as well and Brady is Wyatt’s exact opposite. Brady seems so much better for Shay. Will Wyatt have a chance and is he prepared to go after a woman again after having his heart broken so badly?
The Bad Boy Next Door is a great romantic story. Even though Wyatt doesn’t seem like Shay’s type he’s perfect for her. He’s thoughtful and grounded and under a broody exterior he hides an adorable sweetness and wonderful generous personality. I loved him from the start, he’s a troubled man with a good heart. Shay brings him the happiness he needs so badly. I loved her determination to be independent. She’s trying to survive on her own and her friendly character makes it easy to like her. She’s had a protective upbringing, but she wants more for herself than just being coddled and helped with everything. I admired that about her. Wyatt treats her with respect and kindness and she brings him warmth, lightness and cheerfulness. They perfectly complement one another and are a really cute couple.
Jody Holford writes about a lively building with interesting people. Kendrick Place is an amazing setting for a series. It was fun to read about the building itself and its inhabitants. Jody Holford’s detailed descriptions make it come to life very well. There’s quite a bit of drama going on in the basement and it was fascinating to see where it would lead. I enjoyed reading about the intrigues in the lives of the main characters combined with true love. The Bad Boy Next Door is a lovely charming read with endearing main characters.
February 5, 2017
I loved Wyatt that man could provide for his woman, even though she didnt need providing for, "...grabbed his boxers. He pulled on the shirt he’d been wearing and grabbed a T-shirt from his drawer. Tossing it onto the bed, he winked at her. “I made you dinner. Unless you’re okay with eating naked, which is perfectly fine with me, put that on.” Wyatt is all about compromise, “like hell. Then someone else can look at your naked back all night? I don’t think so. I think you’ll just stand in front of me, nice and close. You look at the art; I’ll look at you.” I loved this book, from page one it keo me intrigued and entertained.
March 17, 2017
“When I’m around you, I feel like the world isn’t as bad as it seems.”
When I read books like this, I feel like the world isn't as bad as it seems. Because books like this are why I love romance. The Bad Boy Next Door is an adorable and super sweet read. Fluffy, light and fun.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, and it was fantastic to return to Kendrick Place, especially seeing Gabby and Owen again, because *sigh* they are just so cute. This time though, we get to hang out with the gruff and broody Wyatt—who is just bad enough to be interesting and sexy, but not so bad as to make me want to give up on him—and Shay, a recent Boston transplant.
While I loved Wyatt, his protective nature and grumpy reluctance to let Shay in, I struggled a little more with Shay. I liked her, and I certainly loved her with Wyatt, but there were moments when her… ungratefulness (?) bothered me a touch. However, her drive and her sass were, for the most part, very much on-point, and ultimately, I came to root for her.
The Bad Boy Next Door is an quick, easy and clean read—though fade-to-black isn't something I mind, I do feel compelled to note that some of the breaks were a little off, which made it slightly difficult to follow the transitions—and one that sets up what I assume will be Brady’s book next.
Ultimately, this is a feel-good romance, that will leave you feeling content; happily romanced, lost in a little bad boy/good girl fantasy and hopefully, like me, eager to return to Kendrick Place soon.
Her smile made him feel like he’d won the lottery, made his heart beat like a drum.
You’re mine.
~ FOUR STARS ~
When I read books like this, I feel like the world isn't as bad as it seems. Because books like this are why I love romance. The Bad Boy Next Door is an adorable and super sweet read. Fluffy, light and fun.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, and it was fantastic to return to Kendrick Place, especially seeing Gabby and Owen again, because *sigh* they are just so cute. This time though, we get to hang out with the gruff and broody Wyatt—who is just bad enough to be interesting and sexy, but not so bad as to make me want to give up on him—and Shay, a recent Boston transplant.
While I loved Wyatt, his protective nature and grumpy reluctance to let Shay in, I struggled a little more with Shay. I liked her, and I certainly loved her with Wyatt, but there were moments when her… ungratefulness (?) bothered me a touch. However, her drive and her sass were, for the most part, very much on-point, and ultimately, I came to root for her.
The Bad Boy Next Door is an quick, easy and clean read—though fade-to-black isn't something I mind, I do feel compelled to note that some of the breaks were a little off, which made it slightly difficult to follow the transitions—and one that sets up what I assume will be Brady’s book next.
Ultimately, this is a feel-good romance, that will leave you feeling content; happily romanced, lost in a little bad boy/good girl fantasy and hopefully, like me, eager to return to Kendrick Place soon.
Her smile made him feel like he’d won the lottery, made his heart beat like a drum.
You’re mine.
~ FOUR STARS ~
March 20, 2017
4.5 Stars
Shay wants to break away from her over protective family. She wants a fresh start without any romantic entanglements. She wasn't expecting to meet anyone who would tempt her to lose focus.
Wyatt is a detective, he has recently finished an under cover job and just trying to get used to normal life. He is not ready for relationships. Right now he is learning to be social again. So when he meets his next door neighbor and is attracted to her, he just tries to ignore it. But will they both be able to deny their mutual attraction for long?
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a good read for me. I think anyone who likes contemporary romance will love it.
Shay wants to break away from her over protective family. She wants a fresh start without any romantic entanglements. She wasn't expecting to meet anyone who would tempt her to lose focus.
Wyatt is a detective, he has recently finished an under cover job and just trying to get used to normal life. He is not ready for relationships. Right now he is learning to be social again. So when he meets his next door neighbor and is attracted to her, he just tries to ignore it. But will they both be able to deny their mutual attraction for long?
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a good read for me. I think anyone who likes contemporary romance will love it.
March 8, 2017
I love that this series is going to continue and keep us in Kendrick Place.
Holford introduces the reader to a new couple, while keeping us grounded in a setting we love and with glimpses of characters we've fallen for.
Wyatt really stood out to me in the first book, so I was happy to see him star on this one and see where his heart would take him. He seemed cold-hearted, but I knew there was more to him.
And there was! Wyatt's character is complex and one can start to see why is he the way he is...and why Shay is perfect for him. Sometimes when you're recovering from a traumatic experience, you need the thing that helps you forget that and remember who you are, or who you want to be.
Holford does a good job keeping the mystery going from the previous installment and making the story more than just these two. You really feel like the story is about a community and you're looking in seeing it all. But the view is magical, and enjoyable, and I see Brady sneaking in there...hoping to see more of him in the future.
Holford introduces the reader to a new couple, while keeping us grounded in a setting we love and with glimpses of characters we've fallen for.
Wyatt really stood out to me in the first book, so I was happy to see him star on this one and see where his heart would take him. He seemed cold-hearted, but I knew there was more to him.
And there was! Wyatt's character is complex and one can start to see why is he the way he is...and why Shay is perfect for him. Sometimes when you're recovering from a traumatic experience, you need the thing that helps you forget that and remember who you are, or who you want to be.
Holford does a good job keeping the mystery going from the previous installment and making the story more than just these two. You really feel like the story is about a community and you're looking in seeing it all. But the view is magical, and enjoyable, and I see Brady sneaking in there...hoping to see more of him in the future.
March 8, 2017
This was a nice antidote to all the broody, angst-y novels I've been reading lately. This book was a gentle read, with the steamy scenes held behind closed doors, which was fine. When you've got a heroine who comes from a wealthy, privileged background, that aspect can sometimes overtake the story. I'm happy to say that wasn't the case here. I don't like reading about spoiled, wealthy girls, and while Shay had it easy before, she was focused on not living the same kind of life, which was refreshing. Wyatt was a grump, which was incredibly endearing. This story dipped into a little romantic suspense, but it wasn't overpowering. It was romantic-suspense-lite.
This was a charming story and I enjoyed reading it. It was a palate cleanser for all the angst! I'd give it a solid 3.5 stars, but am happy to round up to 4 because it was so cute.
This was a charming story and I enjoyed reading it. It was a palate cleanser for all the angst! I'd give it a solid 3.5 stars, but am happy to round up to 4 because it was so cute.
March 25, 2017
Shay is ready to embrace the new life she's planning, away from the overprotective eyes of her brothers. On moving day, she can't help but notice Brady, the building manager. He's nice, sweet, and, this is big, doesn't seem as if "he's an overbearing, I know best," alpha, like her brothers. Shay also meets a mysterious and sexy man that calls her on being alone in the underground garage, and moving her things, by herself. He definitely fits what she wants to avoid, but...
Wyatt, a Boston detective, finished an eight months long undercover assignment fairly recently and is still struggling with the things he had to see and do. He's having a hard time getting back into the mindset of living "normally." Not to mention after meeting his new neighbor, Shay, he can't keep her face, or body, out of his thoughts.
When Shay needs a little neighborly help, and Brady, as acting manager, isn't available, she calls Wyatt. Surprisingly, he not only helps, but also feeds her, and says she can stay at his place until she reaches Brady. He does still give off that "I don't people, nor do I care what they think about me" vibe, but Shay is beginning to see that's not entirely true. At least not where she's concerned.
"Even his scowl is alluring. Nope , nope, nope. Stop it." Scowls are not alluring. Friendliness is attractive. Happiness. No mystery. Like Brady,” she said. But it wasn’t the thought of Brady making her skin hum." - Shay
Wyatt and Shay strike up a friendship of sorts while the attraction they feel for each other continues to simmer below the surface. Having both experienced heartbreak and/or betrayal recently, neither are looking to start a relationship. Not to mention Shay is sure the type of man she needs is the anti-alpha and Wyatt believes no one can be as sunshiney as Shay appears. But others are noticing the way Wyatt acts around Shay, the softening of his eyes, the protectiveness she brings out in him.
Wyatt can't explain, nor stop, the way Shay makes him feel, and quite honestly, he doesn't want to. When she's injured and their storage room is trashed, the protective and possessive feelings that arise in Wyatt shock him.
"Wyatt watched her for a moment, emotion twisting in his chest. Something shifted, like his heart was making room or waking up." - Wyatt
As Wyatt watches over Shay while she's recovering from her injury, their friendship, as well as their attraction to one another, deepens. He realizes he likes spending time with her and that she truly is as she seems and he admits, at least to himself, that he has feelings for her.
"When I'm around you, I feel like the world isn't as bad as it seems." - Wyatt
Can Wyatt truly open himself up to Shay? Or is she doomed to have yet another half-way relationship? Will Shay run as she normally does when things get a little difficult? Or will she trust Wyatt and give him a chance, fighting for what they do and could have? Is Shay safe? Will Wyatt and Shay get their HEA?
One-click now and follow along as two strangers, both yearning to be together, meet and begin building a foundation of friendship that will lead to a once in a lifetime love. Though this book can easily be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading the previous one, More than Friends, as both Wyatt and Brady are introduced in it. Plus, Owen and Gabby, that book's couple, are not only referenced here, but also make an appearance, and the suspense part of that plot carried over a little into this one.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Wyatt, a Boston detective, finished an eight months long undercover assignment fairly recently and is still struggling with the things he had to see and do. He's having a hard time getting back into the mindset of living "normally." Not to mention after meeting his new neighbor, Shay, he can't keep her face, or body, out of his thoughts.
When Shay needs a little neighborly help, and Brady, as acting manager, isn't available, she calls Wyatt. Surprisingly, he not only helps, but also feeds her, and says she can stay at his place until she reaches Brady. He does still give off that "I don't people, nor do I care what they think about me" vibe, but Shay is beginning to see that's not entirely true. At least not where she's concerned.
"Even his scowl is alluring. Nope , nope, nope. Stop it." Scowls are not alluring. Friendliness is attractive. Happiness. No mystery. Like Brady,” she said. But it wasn’t the thought of Brady making her skin hum." - Shay
Wyatt and Shay strike up a friendship of sorts while the attraction they feel for each other continues to simmer below the surface. Having both experienced heartbreak and/or betrayal recently, neither are looking to start a relationship. Not to mention Shay is sure the type of man she needs is the anti-alpha and Wyatt believes no one can be as sunshiney as Shay appears. But others are noticing the way Wyatt acts around Shay, the softening of his eyes, the protectiveness she brings out in him.
Wyatt can't explain, nor stop, the way Shay makes him feel, and quite honestly, he doesn't want to. When she's injured and their storage room is trashed, the protective and possessive feelings that arise in Wyatt shock him.
"Wyatt watched her for a moment, emotion twisting in his chest. Something shifted, like his heart was making room or waking up." - Wyatt
As Wyatt watches over Shay while she's recovering from her injury, their friendship, as well as their attraction to one another, deepens. He realizes he likes spending time with her and that she truly is as she seems and he admits, at least to himself, that he has feelings for her.
"When I'm around you, I feel like the world isn't as bad as it seems." - Wyatt
Can Wyatt truly open himself up to Shay? Or is she doomed to have yet another half-way relationship? Will Shay run as she normally does when things get a little difficult? Or will she trust Wyatt and give him a chance, fighting for what they do and could have? Is Shay safe? Will Wyatt and Shay get their HEA?
One-click now and follow along as two strangers, both yearning to be together, meet and begin building a foundation of friendship that will lead to a once in a lifetime love. Though this book can easily be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading the previous one, More than Friends, as both Wyatt and Brady are introduced in it. Plus, Owen and Gabby, that book's couple, are not only referenced here, but also make an appearance, and the suspense part of that plot carried over a little into this one.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
March 23, 2017
*This review will also appears here on A Leisure Moment*
**I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I’m difficult to please when it comes to the alpha male stereotype presented in romance novels, but Holford did a phenomenal job of creating an alpha male without overdoing the trope. I fell easily into the story and finished it quickly.
Shay Matthews was tired of everyone telling her how to live her life. As the youngest and only girl in her family, she was tired of her three obnoxious brothers watching her like a hawk and her parents thinking she couldn’t make it on her own. There were times when her stubborn streak got on my nerves, but I understood where she was coming from. She had to come to terms with herself as a person, and her growth through the book was done well. I liked her as a character, overall, and though the book is told in third person, found her “voice” distinct from Wyatt.
The love interest of the book, Wyatt Daniels, hadn’t wanted to let anyone in since he had finished his undercover job as a detective for the Boston Police Department. They had instant chemistry, but Wyatt didn’t want anyone else to have to deal with his baggage, and Shay didn’t want to depend on a relationship. Strangely, I liked Wyatt instantly. I got where he was coming from, but I knew from the start that he wouldn’t be able to stay away from his neighbor.
I liked reading as they found their way to each other. It was cute and sweet, reading as they broke down the barriers that they had both put up. I wanted them to end up together and was glad that there was not a lot of drama. Sure, they had drama, but it didn’t weigh down the story. They had motivations and careers going on in the background instead of being super obsessed with each other.
The only problem that I had with their relationship was that it happened so fast. The book takes place over a two-week period, other than the epilogue. In a sense, I found it really sweet that they understood what they wanted and that they liked each other enough to want to be together. Then again, two weeks is a short amount of time to drop everything, including your hesitance toward all relationships, and throw caution to the wind.
Overall, though, I enjoyed the writing style and the characters. They all zinged and blended together nicely. If you’re looking for a book with a sweet, fast romance, you can do no wrong downloading The Bad Boy Next Door.
**I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I’m difficult to please when it comes to the alpha male stereotype presented in romance novels, but Holford did a phenomenal job of creating an alpha male without overdoing the trope. I fell easily into the story and finished it quickly.
Shay Matthews was tired of everyone telling her how to live her life. As the youngest and only girl in her family, she was tired of her three obnoxious brothers watching her like a hawk and her parents thinking she couldn’t make it on her own. There were times when her stubborn streak got on my nerves, but I understood where she was coming from. She had to come to terms with herself as a person, and her growth through the book was done well. I liked her as a character, overall, and though the book is told in third person, found her “voice” distinct from Wyatt.
The love interest of the book, Wyatt Daniels, hadn’t wanted to let anyone in since he had finished his undercover job as a detective for the Boston Police Department. They had instant chemistry, but Wyatt didn’t want anyone else to have to deal with his baggage, and Shay didn’t want to depend on a relationship. Strangely, I liked Wyatt instantly. I got where he was coming from, but I knew from the start that he wouldn’t be able to stay away from his neighbor.
I liked reading as they found their way to each other. It was cute and sweet, reading as they broke down the barriers that they had both put up. I wanted them to end up together and was glad that there was not a lot of drama. Sure, they had drama, but it didn’t weigh down the story. They had motivations and careers going on in the background instead of being super obsessed with each other.
The only problem that I had with their relationship was that it happened so fast. The book takes place over a two-week period, other than the epilogue. In a sense, I found it really sweet that they understood what they wanted and that they liked each other enough to want to be together. Then again, two weeks is a short amount of time to drop everything, including your hesitance toward all relationships, and throw caution to the wind.
Overall, though, I enjoyed the writing style and the characters. They all zinged and blended together nicely. If you’re looking for a book with a sweet, fast romance, you can do no wrong downloading The Bad Boy Next Door.
March 13, 2017
The Bad Boy Next Door is the second book in the Kendrick Place series, but it's the first one I've had the chance to read. I can promise you this works just fine as a standalone, but it made me curious and hungry for Gabby and Owen's story - so I'll definitely be circling back around to grab More Than Friends.
Here's the thing about Jody Holford books - they're consistently completely engaging and charming. I always go into them feeling unsure if this is going to click for me, and then every single time I wind up flipping the last page with a huge smile on my face. She’s a fantastic storyteller and I get sucked in, every time.
I loved Wyatt and Shay - I connected easily with both of them and loved their banter, the way they communicated, and that sparky connection between them. I felt like the chemistry in this book was spot on, and my heart did that delicious dip and race thing that happens when I connect with the romance in a book. I loved it so much.
This is a sweet book - as in, the emphasis is on the sweet. The steamy scenes are fade-to-black, and the bad boy is not the same kind of bad boy you’ll find in an intense and gritty romance. It’s all relative and I still got the bad boy vibe from Wyatt – it’s just that his soft underbelly stole the show (which is actually a thing that I loved – like, a lot). None of this is a problem for me because I feel like Ms. Holford still managed to nail the sizzling connection between Shay and Wyatt, and really, the sweetness is what I want to read anyway.
I did feel like some of the transitions were a little jerky and I was whipped out of one scene into another - which was sometimes a little jarring. However, beyond that (and that's not a major complaint by any means), I completely enjoyed this story.
This was a fun, heartwarming story with a little punch of suspense - and I'm excited for more from this series. If you're looking for something light, sweet, but with enough of a burn to keep your heart fluttering - pick this book up. ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
Here's the thing about Jody Holford books - they're consistently completely engaging and charming. I always go into them feeling unsure if this is going to click for me, and then every single time I wind up flipping the last page with a huge smile on my face. She’s a fantastic storyteller and I get sucked in, every time.
I loved Wyatt and Shay - I connected easily with both of them and loved their banter, the way they communicated, and that sparky connection between them. I felt like the chemistry in this book was spot on, and my heart did that delicious dip and race thing that happens when I connect with the romance in a book. I loved it so much.
This is a sweet book - as in, the emphasis is on the sweet. The steamy scenes are fade-to-black, and the bad boy is not the same kind of bad boy you’ll find in an intense and gritty romance. It’s all relative and I still got the bad boy vibe from Wyatt – it’s just that his soft underbelly stole the show (which is actually a thing that I loved – like, a lot). None of this is a problem for me because I feel like Ms. Holford still managed to nail the sizzling connection between Shay and Wyatt, and really, the sweetness is what I want to read anyway.
I did feel like some of the transitions were a little jerky and I was whipped out of one scene into another - which was sometimes a little jarring. However, beyond that (and that's not a major complaint by any means), I completely enjoyed this story.
This was a fun, heartwarming story with a little punch of suspense - and I'm excited for more from this series. If you're looking for something light, sweet, but with enough of a burn to keep your heart fluttering - pick this book up. ~ Shelly, 4 Stars
March 12, 2017
Loved this book! It had so many funny moments, where I related with the characters and wanted to jump into the story to join them. It's always amazing when an author can create a world that so tempts the reader.
Shay Matthews has just moved to Boston, escaping from a love affair gone wrong and an overprotective family. While moving in to her new apartment, she quickly realizes that making a fresh start is hard when temptation in the form of Wyatt Daniels is standing right in front of her. Wyatt is a detective with no time to mingle with the new girl in the building, but when they keep running into each other, he finds it's going to be hard to stay away. When Shay is in danger, Wyatt's protective instincts kick in, and soon they are becoming more than just neighbors.
The chemistry with this couple was off the charts! Their attraction was instantaneous, but once they actually began talking, I was so excited. The banter, the laughter, and the shy smiles were adorable, and I just knew they would be a couple to remember. Sadly, the sexy times faded to black, so I did feel a bit of disappointment. Because given their connection, you know the sex scenes would have been *amazing*! Shay was cute, quirky, and generous, with a personality that seemed to grab each person she met. Wyatt was a loner, antisocial, and thoroughly uninterested in people until Shay came along, which made his character development all the sweeter. The ending will make you smile.
I am excited to read the next book in this series! I imagine it will be Brady and Mia, which promises to be fun given their interactions. And Brady is a sweetheart who needs a happily-ever-after.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Shay Matthews has just moved to Boston, escaping from a love affair gone wrong and an overprotective family. While moving in to her new apartment, she quickly realizes that making a fresh start is hard when temptation in the form of Wyatt Daniels is standing right in front of her. Wyatt is a detective with no time to mingle with the new girl in the building, but when they keep running into each other, he finds it's going to be hard to stay away. When Shay is in danger, Wyatt's protective instincts kick in, and soon they are becoming more than just neighbors.
The chemistry with this couple was off the charts! Their attraction was instantaneous, but once they actually began talking, I was so excited. The banter, the laughter, and the shy smiles were adorable, and I just knew they would be a couple to remember. Sadly, the sexy times faded to black, so I did feel a bit of disappointment. Because given their connection, you know the sex scenes would have been *amazing*! Shay was cute, quirky, and generous, with a personality that seemed to grab each person she met. Wyatt was a loner, antisocial, and thoroughly uninterested in people until Shay came along, which made his character development all the sweeter. The ending will make you smile.
I am excited to read the next book in this series! I imagine it will be Brady and Mia, which promises to be fun given their interactions. And Brady is a sweetheart who needs a happily-ever-after.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
March 17, 2017
While I enjoyed the first book in this series (More Than Friends) and was intrigued by some of the other characters living at Kendrick Place, this book didn’t work for me. Once again the criminal subplot felt really tacked on, seeming like it was going somewhere at some point, only to fade away until it was needed to give Shay a reason to overreact. But it was the main characters and their lack of chemistry that really spoilt things for me.
Shay is ridiculously immature. It is kind of understandable, up to a point, considering the way her family has always babied her, but her every reaction to Wyatt was so overblown it made it hard to believe she was in her mid-twenties. The guy is a cop, he has to work, sometimes he won’t be able to tell you about his work – stop pouting and grow up! I also wasn’t fond of the way she was with Brady. She definitely uses him, or intends to, until things with Wyatt get more involved.
Speaking of Wyatt, the man is an emotional flip-flop. I didn’t blame Shay for backing off at first when he couldn’t make up his own mind about what he was doing. The guy’s a mess and while I could see why he couldn’t tell Shay everything, there were times when I think he could have handled things better than he did. Having said that, it irritated me that he was the one who had to apologise for what was essentially Shay’s childish overreaction.
All throughout this book I struggled to believe in these two as a couple. Their attraction is superficial at best – Shay represents lost innocence for Wyatt, while he is bad boy danger for her – and I never felt much chemistry between them. The idea that they could have formed anything lasting was doubtful – it’s not just that they’re different, but Shay’s immaturity would surely cause a rift when Wyatt is so invested in his job. They’re at such different stages of their lives that the idea of them settling down to a HEA is plain daft.
Overall, I guess this one just didn’t work for me.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
Shay is ridiculously immature. It is kind of understandable, up to a point, considering the way her family has always babied her, but her every reaction to Wyatt was so overblown it made it hard to believe she was in her mid-twenties. The guy is a cop, he has to work, sometimes he won’t be able to tell you about his work – stop pouting and grow up! I also wasn’t fond of the way she was with Brady. She definitely uses him, or intends to, until things with Wyatt get more involved.
Speaking of Wyatt, the man is an emotional flip-flop. I didn’t blame Shay for backing off at first when he couldn’t make up his own mind about what he was doing. The guy’s a mess and while I could see why he couldn’t tell Shay everything, there were times when I think he could have handled things better than he did. Having said that, it irritated me that he was the one who had to apologise for what was essentially Shay’s childish overreaction.
All throughout this book I struggled to believe in these two as a couple. Their attraction is superficial at best – Shay represents lost innocence for Wyatt, while he is bad boy danger for her – and I never felt much chemistry between them. The idea that they could have formed anything lasting was doubtful – it’s not just that they’re different, but Shay’s immaturity would surely cause a rift when Wyatt is so invested in his job. They’re at such different stages of their lives that the idea of them settling down to a HEA is plain daft.
Overall, I guess this one just didn’t work for me.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
February 28, 2017
4.5 Stars
Being the baby of her family hasn't been easy for Shay Matthews, especially considering her three overprotective brothers. Needing her freedom and a chance to see if she can be more independent, instead of relying on her family so much, she moves to Boston. She never expected to meet a man that could convince her to take a chance on love again, but her smoking hot next door neighbor, Wyatt Daniels, manages to get under her skin. Will they both risk their hearts for the chance at happy ever after, or have their past relationships left them too afraid to take a chance on each other?
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Holford, but after finishing this story, no way will it be the last I'll read by this talented author. From the start to finish, this story mesmorized me with its charming characters, well-written dialogue and a fast-paced plot that I couldn't put down because the hero is dreamy, despite his scowling and brooding ways and I couldn't wait to read more about him, especially once he meets Shay.
As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories and what happens to Shay that makes Wyatt realize that there's no possible way he can keep his distance from the heroine. Both Wyatt and Shay have every reason to want to avoid relationships with both being betrayed by the ones they cared for. It made me feel sorry for the two of them, but I'm glad that Shay didn't give up on Wyatt, even when he kept pulling back from whatever was happening between them. However, in saying that, I loved every moment that Shay and Wyatt conversed, as they have such strong chemistry that spilled over onto the pages so sweetly and behind closed doors.
Both the main characters were highly entertaining, and I loved both their back stories. It made them the interesting and attention-grabbing characters that they were, because it wasn't easy for either of them to trust again after the disasters made by the last person of the opposite sex that they trusted. Wyatt being a cop is naturally suspicious, but his past makes him more so, because of what happened during his time doing undercover work. Can Shay show him that not everyone is out to deceive him? Moreover, Wyatt is hard-working, very good at his job and I liked how protective he is of Shay, especially because of what happens to her. But what I liked most of all about the hero is how he finds it hard to stay away from Shay.
While Shay, she's strong and brave by finally making the move away from her family. She needs her freedom after feeling smothered for too long, and I liked that she fought for her independence not just with her overprotective family but with Wyatt too. Indeed, she provides a good challenge for the hero by fighting him every step of the way, when he becomes too overbearing in trying to keep her safe. Moreover, she's smart and I liked how determined she was to prove she can make it on her own, and certainly the quick success she has in her event planning business proves her drive to succeed.
Overall, Ms. Holford has penned a fantastic read in this book where the secondary characters entertained me just as much as the main ones. Especially when the secondary characters are offering sound advice or when Wyatt's jealousy shines through because he thinks he's competing for Shay's affections against another man. The way this story ended had me smiling, because of the way Wyatt made things right between him and Shay. Who knew event planning could be used for the greater good in convincing the heroine how right they are for each other and that they shouldn't allow anything to keep them apart. I would highly recommend The Bad Boy Next Door by Jody Holford, especially if you enjoy the sexy protector trope or if you enjoy books by authors Coleen Kwan, Victoria James or Sonya Weiss.
February 7, 2017
ARC provided by NetGalley. Thank you!
This was my first book by Jody Holford.
I found this to be a light, fun and sweet read. I liked Shay. I liked Wyatt. I found myself thinking that this was like a "Sweet Dreams" novel but for adults because though each main character had their own issues, the story line never got heavy and overly dramatic, which I appreciated. And let's be clear, when I compared this book to having the feel of a "Sweet Dreams" book ... well, imo, this is a compliment because I loved my Sweet Dreams books.
I am now going to hunt up the first book in this series --- the one about Owen and Gabby :-) Can't wait to read about their love story.
This was my first book by Jody Holford.
I found this to be a light, fun and sweet read. I liked Shay. I liked Wyatt. I found myself thinking that this was like a "Sweet Dreams" novel but for adults because though each main character had their own issues, the story line never got heavy and overly dramatic, which I appreciated. And let's be clear, when I compared this book to having the feel of a "Sweet Dreams" book ... well, imo, this is a compliment because I loved my Sweet Dreams books.
I am now going to hunt up the first book in this series --- the one about Owen and Gabby :-) Can't wait to read about their love story.
March 6, 2017
That feeling when it's a glorious day out after endless rain and you feel so energized, you stroll along the street just because(!) and then a car sped by and splashed mud all over you ...and you went from happy to murderous; that's pretty much what I felt between starting and finishing The Bad Boy Next Door.
Don't get me wrong, it's an engaging story! Since reading More Than Friends I was sure there's more to the broody and mysterious tenant of Kendrick Place than glimpsed on that book, so I was quick to grab the chance to read this entry.
A character introduced in this series is Shay Matthews, a new tenant who just clicked with Wyatt. Frankly, the attraction between Shay and Wyatt was too sudden to my liking. But considering the flow of the story, I was willing to overlook the cliche and just enjoying the adorably awkward and stilted romance between these two. I even ignored loopholes on the timeline because: I just wanna soak on the fun and happy bubble of it all.
Until I got to oh, about the last one fifth of the book when - of course - there's the need to burst the bubble and rain trouble all over happyland. Shay suddenly developed some harebrained ideas and pushed Wyatt into acting and saying things she didn't like and she bolted. From there my happy feeling just plummeted!
Now don't get me wrong. I love grovelling scene in a book ...when it was required. What I saw here was an unfair treatment of Wyatt. Yes, he screwed up; but Shay was not totally faultless either. The whole issue - avoiding and moping around and turning deaf on any plead except for own voice - just grated on my nerves.
Thank gads for Brady and Gabby who still made the story interesting for me. Bottom line, I still like this installment better than the previous one, but not as much as I initially thought I would.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Don't get me wrong, it's an engaging story! Since reading More Than Friends I was sure there's more to the broody and mysterious tenant of Kendrick Place than glimpsed on that book, so I was quick to grab the chance to read this entry.
A character introduced in this series is Shay Matthews, a new tenant who just clicked with Wyatt. Frankly, the attraction between Shay and Wyatt was too sudden to my liking. But considering the flow of the story, I was willing to overlook the cliche and just enjoying the adorably awkward and stilted romance between these two. I even ignored loopholes on the timeline because: I just wanna soak on the fun and happy bubble of it all.
Until I got to oh, about the last one fifth of the book when - of course - there's the need to burst the bubble and rain trouble all over happyland. Shay suddenly developed some harebrained ideas and pushed Wyatt into acting and saying things she didn't like and she bolted. From there my happy feeling just plummeted!
Now don't get me wrong. I love grovelling scene in a book ...when it was required. What I saw here was an unfair treatment of Wyatt. Yes, he screwed up; but Shay was not totally faultless either. The whole issue - avoiding and moping around and turning deaf on any plead except for own voice - just grated on my nerves.
Thank gads for Brady and Gabby who still made the story interesting for me. Bottom line, I still like this installment better than the previous one, but not as much as I initially thought I would.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2017
A very sweet and satisfying romance! It was fun to return to Kendrick Place and all the great characters introduced in the first book in the series. I loved how Shay and Wyatt's story unfolded and I couldn't stop turning the pages.
did-not-finish
November 7, 2023DNFed at 12%. I just don't care about the main characters, also it looks like there is going to be a love triangle so I'm out.
February 17, 2017
Loved revisiting the Kendrick Place and all the residents from More Than Friends. From the first book between Gabby and Owen, we meet both Brady (the mechanic and charmer) and Wyatt (the sexy, broody detective).
I loved Wyatt and his broodiness, his mystery, and sex appeal. I also LOVED that he was instantly intrigued by Shay when she was moving in and was off kilter around her. Shay is tired of overbearing, bossy and controlling people- aka her brother and parents- and wants to love a life of independence, relying on herself and her own choices and decisions- so she thinks. Moving to Boston on a whim she finds herself caught up in the dramas of Kendrick Place and once again in the arms of a bossy-controlling man. While Shay and Wyatt fight what is obvious between them, things around the apartment complex are forcing them together and these two find it hard to resist each other. Wyatt has his own issues to deal with and their inability to handle those issues head on cause tensions and tears between Wyatt and Shay. Having to buckle down and evaluate themselves before they can handle others is exactly what they do. Will they get a happily ever after? Great read- look forward to Brady and Mia's story!
I loved Wyatt and his broodiness, his mystery, and sex appeal. I also LOVED that he was instantly intrigued by Shay when she was moving in and was off kilter around her. Shay is tired of overbearing, bossy and controlling people- aka her brother and parents- and wants to love a life of independence, relying on herself and her own choices and decisions- so she thinks. Moving to Boston on a whim she finds herself caught up in the dramas of Kendrick Place and once again in the arms of a bossy-controlling man. While Shay and Wyatt fight what is obvious between them, things around the apartment complex are forcing them together and these two find it hard to resist each other. Wyatt has his own issues to deal with and their inability to handle those issues head on cause tensions and tears between Wyatt and Shay. Having to buckle down and evaluate themselves before they can handle others is exactly what they do. Will they get a happily ever after? Great read- look forward to Brady and Mia's story!
February 19, 2017
Nice contemporary romance. No one is insecure or petty. The hero, Wyatt, is a detective, recently returned from an undercover assignment, and the experience is still haunting him. The heroine, Shay, is from a wonderfully supportive family. The only problem is the support feels stifling and she feels like she has to create some distance, via a move, in order to stand on her own two feet.
If I had a criticism, it would be that while I liked Wyatt and Shay, I feel like she, and even he to some extent, were pretty one-dimensional characters. That makes this an easy read, but not an engrossing one. Think beach, not couch on a snowy afternoon.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
If I had a criticism, it would be that while I liked Wyatt and Shay, I feel like she, and even he to some extent, were pretty one-dimensional characters. That makes this an easy read, but not an engrossing one. Think beach, not couch on a snowy afternoon.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 25, 2017
This was my first book by Jody Holford and it was a cute and sweet story but in the end it left me feeling a bit…underwhelmed. From the blurb and our introduction to him, I expected Wyatt to be a growly, alpha bad boy and that wasn’t exactly what I got. And Shay was a cute, bumbling woman. Her constant insistence on independence was exasperating at times. I understand wanting to stand on your own two feet, but sometimes it doesn’t hurt to get some help. I really just didn’t feel the chemistry between the two of them. In fact the first sex scene? I had to read it a couple times to make sure it was a sex scene and not an extended make-out session. I couldn’t see any indicators it went beyond a little groping but next thing we know, they are talking about making love “again.”
The character development is okay. Not the worst I’ve seen but I just wish they’d both been fleshed out some more. There was a wealth of potential in Wyatt. There is some drama in the book, it’s a tad on the annoying side and a bit one sided but doesn’t really detract from the story too much.
Overall, it’s a sweet and light read. If you’re a fan of clean reads, then this might be worth picking up. It just wasn’t quite what I was looking for.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
For more reviews, visit
The character development is okay. Not the worst I’ve seen but I just wish they’d both been fleshed out some more. There was a wealth of potential in Wyatt. There is some drama in the book, it’s a tad on the annoying side and a bit one sided but doesn’t really detract from the story too much.
Overall, it’s a sweet and light read. If you’re a fan of clean reads, then this might be worth picking up. It just wasn’t quite what I was looking for.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
For more reviews, visit
February 4, 2017
Just loved this book read it cover to cover in one go could not put it down i just loved Wyatt he made the book for me.him and shay together was really sweet.A great book with super characters was an honest read about people trying to deal and get over their insecurities and their pasts.I would recommend this and cant wait to try more of Jody's books.
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