What do you think?
Rate this book
Nocturne Falls Nymph #1
The Nymph Next Door
Laurel Barker is a nymph on a mission: find a new home for herself, her lackadaisical dog, and her tree. The free-spirited wood nymph is soul-bound to the tree she saved before it was cut down to make room for a golf course. She hopes that a town full of supernatural folks will be the haven she needs to finally put down roots. Because her tree isn't looking so hot, and if he dies, so does she. It's not a fate she cares to experience, especially after running into the too-hot-to-be-legal police officer in town. No matter how long her life has already been (and it's been long), he has her thinking about the next phase of it and how much fun it could be.
Aiden Morris became a big-city detective to serve and protect, but a soul-crushing accident put an end to his career and sent him running. He finds a level of solace in Nocturne Falls. Being a small-town police officer suits him, and his remote cabin gives him peace, quiet, and a safe place to shift and roam the woods. Life is about as good as he expects it to get. At least, until he meets the nymph next door. He can't stop thinking about her, especially when it seems he may lose her. And when the past comes looking for them, he has to decide whether to keep running, or stand by the woman who's planted herself in his heart.
Aiden Morris became a big-city detective to serve and protect, but a soul-crushing accident put an end to his career and sent him running. He finds a level of solace in Nocturne Falls. Being a small-town police officer suits him, and his remote cabin gives him peace, quiet, and a safe place to shift and roam the woods. Life is about as good as he expects it to get. At least, until he meets the nymph next door. He can't stop thinking about her, especially when it seems he may lose her. And when the past comes looking for them, he has to decide whether to keep running, or stand by the woman who's planted herself in his heart.
94 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2017
49 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 12, 2017
This was a cute short novel about Laurel, a wood nymph and Aidan, a shifter (kind of shifter gets revealed later) from the Sherif's office. Laurel is new to Nocturne Falls, just moves in as the story begins.
The story is well written and it has a nice flow, the romance is quite cute and I like the development, as it has a nice pace and it is not rushed. The only remark is the abrupt ending. I wish the author gave the story a couple more pages, in order to achieve the nice flow that she had throughout the story. Laurel's dog Bailey is so lovable I wished I had one just like him. And then there is Horatio, the tree.
This was a very enjoyable read from a new author and I would be quite happy to read more Nocturne Falls Universe stories from this author.
The Nocturne Falls reading order is: The Vampire's Mail Order Bride (Nocturne Falls #1), The Werewolf Meets His Match (Nocturne Falls #2), The Gargoyle Gets His Girl (Nocturne Falls, #3), The Professor Woos The Witch (Nocturne Falls, #4), and The Witch’s Halloween Hero (Nocturne Falls #4.5) in Spell of the Ball Anthology, The Werewolf's Christmas Wish (Nocturne Falls #4.6) in Hex the Halls Anthology, The Vampire’s Fake Fiancée (Nocturne Falls #5), A Vampire's Valentine Surprise (Nocturne Falls #5.5), Miss Frost Solves A Cold Case : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #1), The Shifter Romances The Writer (Nocturne Falls #6), Miss Frost Ices The Imp : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #2), The Vampire’s True Love Trials (Nocturne Falls #6.5) in Taming the Vampire collection, Miss Frost Saves The Sandman : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #3), The Dragon Finds Forever (Nocturne Falls #7), and ever growing series of Nocturne Universe Novels, which surpassed fifteen by now. Great world to get yourself immersed in.
The story is well written and it has a nice flow, the romance is quite cute and I like the development, as it has a nice pace and it is not rushed. The only remark is the abrupt ending. I wish the author gave the story a couple more pages, in order to achieve the nice flow that she had throughout the story. Laurel's dog Bailey is so lovable I wished I had one just like him. And then there is Horatio, the tree.
This was a very enjoyable read from a new author and I would be quite happy to read more Nocturne Falls Universe stories from this author.
The Nocturne Falls reading order is: The Vampire's Mail Order Bride (Nocturne Falls #1), The Werewolf Meets His Match (Nocturne Falls #2), The Gargoyle Gets His Girl (Nocturne Falls, #3), The Professor Woos The Witch (Nocturne Falls, #4), and The Witch’s Halloween Hero (Nocturne Falls #4.5) in Spell of the Ball Anthology, The Werewolf's Christmas Wish (Nocturne Falls #4.6) in Hex the Halls Anthology, The Vampire’s Fake Fiancée (Nocturne Falls #5), A Vampire's Valentine Surprise (Nocturne Falls #5.5), Miss Frost Solves A Cold Case : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #1), The Shifter Romances The Writer (Nocturne Falls #6), Miss Frost Ices The Imp : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #2), The Vampire’s True Love Trials (Nocturne Falls #6.5) in Taming the Vampire collection, Miss Frost Saves The Sandman : A Nocturne Falls Mystery (Jayne Frost #3), The Dragon Finds Forever (Nocturne Falls #7), and ever growing series of Nocturne Universe Novels, which surpassed fifteen by now. Great world to get yourself immersed in.
May 30, 2017
Super cute!
I seriously enjoyed The Nymph Next Door. I loved the banter between Aiden and Laurel.
It's a fun little novella. Except for the end, it felt rushed and a tad too convenient. But it also left me with unanswered questions. The good news however is, that this will be continued. Can't wait to read more about these two.
I seriously enjoyed The Nymph Next Door. I loved the banter between Aiden and Laurel.
It's a fun little novella. Except for the end, it felt rushed and a tad too convenient. But it also left me with unanswered questions. The good news however is, that this will be continued. Can't wait to read more about these two.
June 23, 2017
Too short
It was pretty predictable and very short. Was looking for funny and cute, but this was a no for me
It was pretty predictable and very short. Was looking for funny and cute, but this was a no for me
May 26, 2017
This is a great book; this book is part of the Nocturne Falls Universe and is written by J.L. Farey. The Nocturne Falls series is written by Kristen Painter and I was so happy that these new books by new authors were asked to write a story in the town. Nocturne Falls is a town that celebrates Halloween every day of the year and also a place that paranormal’s can live and not have to hide what they really are. Laurel Barker is a nymph on a mission: find a new home for herself, her lackadaisical dog, and her tree. The free-spirited wood nymph is soul-bound to the tree she saved before it was cut down to make room for a golf course. She hopes that a town full of supernatural folks will be the haven she needs to finally put down roots. Aiden Morris became a big-city detective to serve and protect, but a soul-crushing accident put an end to his career and sent him running. He finds a level of solace in Nocturne Falls. Being a small-town police officer suits him, and his remote cabin gives him peace, quiet, and a safe place to shift and roam the woods. Life is about as good as he expects it to get. At least, until he meets the nymph next door. He can't stop thinking about her, especially when it seems he may lose her. And when the past comes looking for them, he has to decide whether to keep running, or stand by the woman who's planted herself in his heart. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author.
September 22, 2024
. It was that insta love thing did not fit, made me cringe. Both act just idiotic. The rest was very predictable and very short. Hated that her tree had to die..
You can really tell the story in short version and do not miss a thing but save money,. Very disappointing. I am really shaking my head .
She moved to town with her tree and dog, doesn`t take care of her tree even she known she needs to plant it. Meets the police guy a bear shifter. Her ex shows up, burns her tree, the police guy takes in her " soul connection " to that tree so she doesn`t die. And the dog is the one that all of a sudden can speak, what to do. End of story. That is it.
Reminds me of kid books where they just state a fact for little kids... That is how I felt when I reached the end of the book: WTH? was this?
You can really tell the story in short version and do not miss a thing but save money,. Very disappointing. I am really shaking my head .
She moved to town with her tree and dog, doesn`t take care of her tree even she known she needs to plant it. Meets the police guy a bear shifter. Her ex shows up, burns her tree, the police guy takes in her " soul connection " to that tree so she doesn`t die. And the dog is the one that all of a sudden can speak, what to do. End of story. That is it.
Reminds me of kid books where they just state a fact for little kids... That is how I felt when I reached the end of the book: WTH? was this?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2017
A short but fun addition to the Nocturne Falls Universe Series.
Not high on action but a sweet and enjoyable PNR story all the same.
Laurel was an interesting and likeable female central character - A Wood Nymph with her dog Bailey and a tree called Horatio in tow. Not so sure about bear shifter Aiden Morris - he seemed a bit generic to me - a nice enough guy but nothing distinctive or stand out about him.
And although it didn't bother me at all the ending is not really an ending - things are left if not exactly on a cliffhanger then 100% unresolved in the middle of a tricky situation! This means there's almost certainly more to come and I for one will be happy to continue reading Laurel's story when this happens 😀
Not high on action but a sweet and enjoyable PNR story all the same.
Laurel was an interesting and likeable female central character - A Wood Nymph with her dog Bailey and a tree called Horatio in tow. Not so sure about bear shifter Aiden Morris - he seemed a bit generic to me - a nice enough guy but nothing distinctive or stand out about him.
And although it didn't bother me at all the ending is not really an ending - things are left if not exactly on a cliffhanger then 100% unresolved in the middle of a tricky situation! This means there's almost certainly more to come and I for one will be happy to continue reading Laurel's story when this happens 😀
June 3, 2017
This book was one of the sweetest, most fun books I have read in this series. The characters are fun, the story is simple and the reader doesn't have to do a lot of thinking, they can just read and enjoy. There are times that I want a book that I have to try to figure out, but there are times when a mindless read are all that I want and this was the perfect book for that!
If you haven't read this series yet, you are missing out on the perfect town with the most exciting residents! I wish this were a real town, because I would be there in a minute!! You can easily start here and love the series, or you can start with the first one and fall in love - just be prepare that you won't stop at just one book! An amazing addition to the series!
If you haven't read this series yet, you are missing out on the perfect town with the most exciting residents! I wish this were a real town, because I would be there in a minute!! You can easily start here and love the series, or you can start with the first one and fall in love - just be prepare that you won't stop at just one book! An amazing addition to the series!
July 29, 2017
This was going so well, with only a slight hiccup about Birdie, until the awfully abrupt ending...
The only flaw I found while reading, from the beginning of the story until 3/4 done, was the description of Birdie. It didn't mesh with how she's been portrayed in any other book in the series.
That being said, I really liked how this story was going. It had a great flow to it and good build up for the romance. However, it felt very rushed at the end with massive amounts of backstory being thrown at readers, but not enough explanation. Like, why was the tree named Horatio? What's the deal with being soul bound? Why did the dog randomly start talking, and why is it British? How did the bond transfer? Where did Dillon go? ... It's just too much left hanging for me.
The only flaw I found while reading, from the beginning of the story until 3/4 done, was the description of Birdie. It didn't mesh with how she's been portrayed in any other book in the series.
That being said, I really liked how this story was going. It had a great flow to it and good build up for the romance. However, it felt very rushed at the end with massive amounts of backstory being thrown at readers, but not enough explanation. Like, why was the tree named Horatio? What's the deal with being soul bound? Why did the dog randomly start talking, and why is it British? How did the bond transfer? Where did Dillon go? ... It's just too much left hanging for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2017
Gosh, this was such an amazing book. The very ending was such a surprise. I loved it! What a twist, I was cracking up. I loved Laurel and Aiden. I would like to see more of them in the future. When we first meet Aiden, he reminds me so much of my husband when I first met him. He was also a cop and had a real serious expression all the time and the mannerism Aiden first had. In fact, that's how we met. I asked him what his problem was. Lol.
It was different to read about a Nymph. And I loved that Aiden was a bear shifter. They were such a fun couple. I loved their banter back and forth. This is one of my favorites in the NFU.
It was different to read about a Nymph. And I loved that Aiden was a bear shifter. They were such a fun couple. I loved their banter back and forth. This is one of my favorites in the NFU.
May 26, 2017
This one was an extremely enjoyable read. It was quick, fun, and gave me a happy feeling. Surely one of my favourites in Nocturne Falls Universe.
I loved the characters so much. Laurel was a sassy nymph, who lived next door to Aiden, a bear shifter who had problem in expressing himself. They’re so fun to read, and I smiled and giggled by myself at times, drew some stares from other bus passengers. I loved the banters between them, and the feeling grew between them. Well, basically I just loved the book.
I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
I loved the characters so much. Laurel was a sassy nymph, who lived next door to Aiden, a bear shifter who had problem in expressing himself. They’re so fun to read, and I smiled and giggled by myself at times, drew some stares from other bus passengers. I loved the banters between them, and the feeling grew between them. Well, basically I just loved the book.
I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
May 27, 2017
This was a great book in the Nocturne Falls Universe. This story is about a nymph and a shifter, who just happen to live close enough to be 'neighbors.' The author caught my attention with the first couple of chapters, especially when she was hauling her tree into town! She did a good job of developing the characteristics of a nymph that allow you to understand more about them (besides luring men). I really enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down when I read it. I hope this author writes more in this series!
May 28, 2017
Laurel is a wood nymph who travels around with a tree on the back of her trailer. She is looking for a place to settle down for good and has hopes that Nocturne Falls could be that place. Aiden is a police office for Nocturne Falls and has come across a car with a large tree on its trailer parked illegally.
What follows is a lovely short story of two people who aren't looking for anything resembling a relationship but are pleasantly surprised by what they find. I really enjoyed this light hearted story, it was short and sweet and great for a light hearted, easy read.
What follows is a lovely short story of two people who aren't looking for anything resembling a relationship but are pleasantly surprised by what they find. I really enjoyed this light hearted story, it was short and sweet and great for a light hearted, easy read.
May 22, 2017
The Nymph Next Door by J. L. Farey
Instant and compelling attraction in this delightful novella from the kindle world of Nocturne Falls Universe by Kristen Painter.
A small bit off the set world with a police force instead of sheriff office but the feeling of paranormal acceptance is straight on.
Aloud vs. allowed. Sometimes spell check doesn't catch context.
A darling paranormal romance.
Instant and compelling attraction in this delightful novella from the kindle world of Nocturne Falls Universe by Kristen Painter.
A small bit off the set world with a police force instead of sheriff office but the feeling of paranormal acceptance is straight on.
Aloud vs. allowed. Sometimes spell check doesn't catch context.
A darling paranormal romance.
December 12, 2025
2025 bk 169. A new entry into the Nocturne Falls Universe that is delightful. I have now read all 3 of this series and I want to say upfront that all 3 need to be combined into one title. Essentially you have 3 separate short stories that would be better served in a combination. The story of a Nymph in search of a place to re-plant her tree and the story of a bear shifter with nightmares comes together when they both move to Nocturne Falls. Attraction results.
May 12, 2017
We meet our first wood nymph in the story; Laurel, her dog and her tree are moving into Nocturne Falls as it begins. The second person she meets is officer Aiden, a bear shifter. (Also a first.) Interesting and unexpected complications ensue. I was quite surprised by the ending. So in all, a good addition to Nocturne Falls.
May 16, 2017
This is a cute, fast-paced story I didn't want to put down. I adore the characters and how they interacted with each other. I couldn't help smiling while reading this book. This is the first book by this author I've read and it won't be my last.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
May 22, 2017
The Nymph Next Door by J.L. Farey, a Kristen Painter Nocturne Falls Universe story, is fun and funny.
A VW bus, towing a tree, occupied by a Wood Nymph and a lazy dog drives into a small town... It really starts with fun, and runs straight to funny. With everything in between.
Good 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.
A VW bus, towing a tree, occupied by a Wood Nymph and a lazy dog drives into a small town... It really starts with fun, and runs straight to funny. With everything in between.
Good 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.
August 21, 2017
Sweet
When a new supernatural moves to Nocturne Falls things get hard. At least for one deputy.
A nymph looking to set down roots, literally, moves to Nocturne Falls. Right away she has a problem with the law. From there things escalate with hilarity and romance. Another Happy Ever After with a close call. And a talking dog?
When a new supernatural moves to Nocturne Falls things get hard. At least for one deputy.
A nymph looking to set down roots, literally, moves to Nocturne Falls. Right away she has a problem with the law. From there things escalate with hilarity and romance. Another Happy Ever After with a close call. And a talking dog?
November 2, 2017
Another Sweet story in Nocturne Falls
This is another lovely love story set in the magical village of Nocturne Falls. Because the village is magical, it is easy to believe that villagers can call in love forever in just days. There is always an arc of some sort that makes things just a little bit precarious, but true love always wins out.
This is another lovely love story set in the magical village of Nocturne Falls. Because the village is magical, it is easy to believe that villagers can call in love forever in just days. There is always an arc of some sort that makes things just a little bit precarious, but true love always wins out.
November 23, 2017
Fantastic book, most definitely loved this story, the hi jinx the adventure and a sweet Dog, truly an awesome read. I can't wait for more.
Thank you so very much for writing this book Il most definitely be looking for more books by J in the future and definitely look forward to any more Nocturne Falls books.
Thank you so very much for writing this book Il most definitely be looking for more books by J in the future and definitely look forward to any more Nocturne Falls books.
May 23, 2017
This book was fun because it explained some of the advantages and disadvantages of being a wood nymph and of being a were animal, not to mention when they try to have a romantic relationship. I thought the book was fun and very entertaining.
May 27, 2017
Laurel is a wood nymph who moves to Nocturne Falls. Upon arriving in town, she meets Aiden and they instantly have a spark between them. This is a very sweet, but short PNR novel. The characters were like able and there is even a silly dog. Overall enjoyable.
June 9, 2017
Super Cute
I liked the twist at the end, but sad that her tree died. I simply love the idea of the nymph relocating her tree. The drama was a little over done, but I enjoyed the balance of heavy and light. I hope to see more of this side of Nocturne Falls Universe in the future.
I liked the twist at the end, but sad that her tree died. I simply love the idea of the nymph relocating her tree. The drama was a little over done, but I enjoyed the balance of heavy and light. I hope to see more of this side of Nocturne Falls Universe in the future.
August 19, 2017
Well done
I love the short stories coming from this universe. The author's voice is heard, while keeping with the theme of the series. It is a smooth and fast read. I would enjoy seeing another from her.
I love the short stories coming from this universe. The author's voice is heard, while keeping with the theme of the series. It is a smooth and fast read. I would enjoy seeing another from her.
May 11, 2022
Kristen Painter realized that so man people loved the town of Nocturne Falls that she created a great place where lots of different authors could write short romantic stories about people in Nocturne Falls called A Nocturne Falls Universe. This is one of those books that I was happy to read.
May 28, 2017
Pretty good book in the NFU. It reminds me that everyone has a different perspective and when you have 2 people looking at something they are quite possibly seeing 2 different things. Enjoy!
May 26, 2017
I enjoyed reading The Nymph Next Door. The story ended up fitting into town very well. It was a super cute read and the dog is probably my favorite character in the story.
May 27, 2017
Review Coming Soon
June 1, 2017
Cute
The hero is the dog. Sometimes love is not the right love even though you wish for it. But true live is not selfish not unkind.
The hero is the dog. Sometimes love is not the right love even though you wish for it. But true live is not selfish not unkind.
June 3, 2017
I really enjoyed this one, it was a fun read and I loved Laurel & Aiden.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews