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Patterson's Bluff #1
The Aussie Next Door
American Angie Donovan has never wanted much. When you grow up getting bounced from foster home to foster home, you learn not to become attached to anything, anyone, or any place. But it only took her two days to fall in love with Australia. With her visa clock ticking, surely she can fall in love with an Australian—and get hitched—in two months. Especially if he’s as hot and funny as her next-door neighbor…
Jace Walters has never wanted much—except a bathroom he didn’t have to share. The last cookie all to himself. And solitude. But when you grow up in a family of seven, you can kiss those things goodbye. He’s finally living alone and working on his syndicated comic strip in privacy. Sure, his American neighbor is distractingly sexy and annoyingly nosy, but she’ll be gone in a few months...
Except now she’s determined to find her perfect match by checking out every eligible male in the town, and her choices are even more distracting. So why does it suddenly feel like he—and his obnoxious tight-knit family, and even these two wayward dogs—could be exactly what she needs?
Jace Walters has never wanted much—except a bathroom he didn’t have to share. The last cookie all to himself. And solitude. But when you grow up in a family of seven, you can kiss those things goodbye. He’s finally living alone and working on his syndicated comic strip in privacy. Sure, his American neighbor is distractingly sexy and annoyingly nosy, but she’ll be gone in a few months...
Except now she’s determined to find her perfect match by checking out every eligible male in the town, and her choices are even more distracting. So why does it suddenly feel like he—and his obnoxious tight-knit family, and even these two wayward dogs—could be exactly what she needs?
367 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 27, 2019
208 people are currently reading
5011 people want to read
About the author
Stefanie London
121 books976 followersStefanie London is a multi-award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romances and romantic comedies.
Stefanie’s books have been called “genuinely entertaining and memorable” by Booklist, and “elegant, descriptive and delectable” by RT magazine. Her stories have won multiple industry awards, including the HOLT Medallion and OKRWA National Reader's Choice Award, and she has been nominated for the Romance Writers of America RITA award.
Originally from Australia, Stefanie lives in Toronto with her very own hero and is doing her best to travel the world. She frequently indulges in her passions for good coffee, lipstick, romance novels and anything zombie-related.
Stefanie’s books have been called “genuinely entertaining and memorable” by Booklist, and “elegant, descriptive and delectable” by RT magazine. Her stories have won multiple industry awards, including the HOLT Medallion and OKRWA National Reader's Choice Award, and she has been nominated for the Romance Writers of America RITA award.
Originally from Australia, Stefanie lives in Toronto with her very own hero and is doing her best to travel the world. She frequently indulges in her passions for good coffee, lipstick, romance novels and anything zombie-related.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
August 27, 2019
A cute story of Angie Donovan who wanted to escape her notoriety in America and found a lovely home in a little town in Australia, where everyone is friendly and welcoming, and Jace Walters, her landlord, who is on the autism spectrum, and who he never thought marriage was on the cards for him. He doesn't believe anybody but his family would put up with his quirks, his difficulty in reading social clues, his need for routine and calm life. Angie, on the other hand, is full of life and energy and is always volunteering and rallying support for a worthy cause. When Angie tells him that she will have to leave Australia in two months time because her visa extension request was not successful, Jace is surprised to realise that he feels disappointment. But perhaps Angie can build a new life in Australia, life that will allow her to put behind the abuse she suffered in her childhood and perhaps Jace can open himself to a different kind of future, future with Angie?
The setting was lovely- small towns can be very charming, especially if you are determined to make yourself a part of the community. The main characters are very sweet, despite their apparent differences.
A very light enjoyable summer read.
Thank you to Edelweiss and Entangled Amara for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
The setting was lovely- small towns can be very charming, especially if you are determined to make yourself a part of the community. The main characters are very sweet, despite their apparent differences.
A very light enjoyable summer read.
Thank you to Edelweiss and Entangled Amara for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
February 24, 2020
📚 “𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁’ 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁.”
“𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁, 𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗲. 𝗪𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗿𝗲.” 📚
Angie Donovan is an American who ran away from her past - and finds herself in a small coastal town in Australia, but her visa is about to end soon, and to stay, Angie needs to get married - which is a huge problem for a romantic who wants to marry out of love and not for comfort... 😬
While she does have some options, none of them makes her heart quake like Jace Walters, her landlord. 💣💥
Jace is a black-and-white kinda guy— he experienced a lot of rejections, that made him the closed person he is today. Jace is on the autism spectrum and tries to stick to his daily routine - but all of it is about to chance when he meets Angie. 🔥
Will Angie find what she's always wanted? Will she find a way to stay in Australia and also true love? Or will she settle...?
So... there were lots of good things in this book - a colorful location, an original character (not the rich alpha man, but a man whose autism didn't define him 💪) and even dogs who made me smile.
BUT... I didn't like Angie and the chemistry between her and Jace wasn't as amazing as I expected it to be. 😬
I started reading this book on my free day and the beginning was *so* boring, that I decided to try it again later - because who wants to spend their free day with a boring book, right...? 😂
Eventually I tried again, but even though it had potential - the plot's pace was SO slow, that at some point I just moved to the last chapter to find out how the book ended so I could continue my life without regrets. (And I don't have any, thank you very much) 😂
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📖 ᖴOᒪᒪOᗯ ᗰE Oᑎ IᑎᔕTᗩGᖇᗩᗰ: 🎉 https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
📖 ᐯIᔕIT ᗰY ᗷᒪOG ᖴOᖇ ᗰOᖇE ᖇEᐯIEᗯᔕ: https://books-romance.com/
August 26, 2019
The Aussie Next Door by Stefanie London
An adorable contemporary romance set in Australia. First of the Patterson’s Bluff series.
An American trying to stay beyond her visa limit falls for her landlord. Can she find someone to love her with only a couple months to spare when her crush makes all other men in town boring?
Jase is set in his habits. He surfs in the morning, has plain porridge for breakfast then works at home drawing his famous comic strip. He’s been diagnosed as highly functioning on the autism scale. He’s enamored with his tenant and can’t seem to ignore her. So much so that maybe he can change some of his habits just for her.
A lovely romance with rom-com notes (literally in old VHS movies that are discussed or watched) and sparks of learning for the people in the retirement community and well as lessons learned by the couple.
Touching and satisfying.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
An adorable contemporary romance set in Australia. First of the Patterson’s Bluff series.
An American trying to stay beyond her visa limit falls for her landlord. Can she find someone to love her with only a couple months to spare when her crush makes all other men in town boring?
Jase is set in his habits. He surfs in the morning, has plain porridge for breakfast then works at home drawing his famous comic strip. He’s been diagnosed as highly functioning on the autism scale. He’s enamored with his tenant and can’t seem to ignore her. So much so that maybe he can change some of his habits just for her.
A lovely romance with rom-com notes (literally in old VHS movies that are discussed or watched) and sparks of learning for the people in the retirement community and well as lessons learned by the couple.
Touching and satisfying.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
March 11, 2020
I like this book very very much. More than I expect. It is a very cute small town romance. Even though Australia is not small. I am not a pet lover but the dogs manage to steal the show.
I do especially like Jace. With his autism spectrum, he needs routine to keep him grounded. He feels lost in his own family until he met Angie. Angie is the opposite of Jace. Spirited, wild and strong heroine. Jace learns to trust to people and his own feeling toward Angie and Angie benefits from Jace stability to keep her past away.
Together with their lovely dogs, have their own HEA.
Overall this is a very cute sweet read.
4 stars
I do especially like Jace. With his autism spectrum, he needs routine to keep him grounded. He feels lost in his own family until he met Angie. Angie is the opposite of Jace. Spirited, wild and strong heroine. Jace learns to trust to people and his own feeling toward Angie and Angie benefits from Jace stability to keep her past away.
Together with their lovely dogs, have their own HEA.
Overall this is a very cute sweet read.
4 stars
September 10, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
Jace’s brother was the kind of guy who seemed immune to worrying too much about his relationships— which had less staying power than the latest viral cat video. Along with his famous charm, Trent had the attention span of a goldfish, hence why their eldest brother, Adam, called him the One-Month Wonder.
His elderly neighbor, Mrs. Marsh, had stood on his doorstep, still wearing her nightgown and slippers, her hair wrapped in a silk scarf and Truffle on a leash… Mrs. Marsh said she’d found Truffle humping her beloved beagle, Archer. Or, in her words, bringing “the devil” into her home.
Please never have children, Nick. We’ll find them lined up in the backyard getting their nightly hose-down instead of having a shower.
“I had to make sure you weren’t an ax murderer.” “As opposed to some other type of murderer? Would it be less of an issue if I didn’t use an ax?”
My Review:
This was an enjoyable and amusing story with an interesting premise but also deftly handled some perplexing real-life issues with sensitivity and thoughtful insights in an entertaining and agile manner. Both main characters were endearing and likable while riddled with idiosyncrasies and unique personal challenges that required accommodation and understanding. I adored and admired them both well before reaching that well deserved HEA.
Jace’s brother was the kind of guy who seemed immune to worrying too much about his relationships— which had less staying power than the latest viral cat video. Along with his famous charm, Trent had the attention span of a goldfish, hence why their eldest brother, Adam, called him the One-Month Wonder.
His elderly neighbor, Mrs. Marsh, had stood on his doorstep, still wearing her nightgown and slippers, her hair wrapped in a silk scarf and Truffle on a leash… Mrs. Marsh said she’d found Truffle humping her beloved beagle, Archer. Or, in her words, bringing “the devil” into her home.
Please never have children, Nick. We’ll find them lined up in the backyard getting their nightly hose-down instead of having a shower.
“I had to make sure you weren’t an ax murderer.” “As opposed to some other type of murderer? Would it be less of an issue if I didn’t use an ax?”
My Review:
This was an enjoyable and amusing story with an interesting premise but also deftly handled some perplexing real-life issues with sensitivity and thoughtful insights in an entertaining and agile manner. Both main characters were endearing and likable while riddled with idiosyncrasies and unique personal challenges that required accommodation and understanding. I adored and admired them both well before reaching that well deserved HEA.
August 26, 2019
Charming, Sweet, and Hopeful!
The Aussie Next Door is a heartwarming, humorous story that introduces us to Angie, a single, American, young woman who needs to get married but wants to fall in love; and Jace, a reclusive, handsome, cartoonist who prefers routines, order, and living alone.
The writing is light and authentic. The characters are genuine, intriguing, and supportive. And the plot is an appealing mix of friendship, family, compromise, independence, witty dialogue, awkward moments, tricky situations, swoon-worthy romance, and the intricacies of high-functioning autism.
Overall, The Aussie Next Door is a timely, fresh, uplifting tale by London that is a wonderful start to the Patterson’s Bluff series and an enticing introduction to the Walters family.
Thank you to Stefanie London and Entangled Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Aussie Next Door is a heartwarming, humorous story that introduces us to Angie, a single, American, young woman who needs to get married but wants to fall in love; and Jace, a reclusive, handsome, cartoonist who prefers routines, order, and living alone.
The writing is light and authentic. The characters are genuine, intriguing, and supportive. And the plot is an appealing mix of friendship, family, compromise, independence, witty dialogue, awkward moments, tricky situations, swoon-worthy romance, and the intricacies of high-functioning autism.
Overall, The Aussie Next Door is a timely, fresh, uplifting tale by London that is a wonderful start to the Patterson’s Bluff series and an enticing introduction to the Walters family.
Thank you to Stefanie London and Entangled Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2019
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Well written, sweet romance: Jace is set in his ways, having been diagnosed on the high functioning end of the Autism spectrum. Angie is on a mission to find love in coastal Australia. When Jace is roped in to boarding a family friend's two adorable dogs, noise, doggie mischief and mayhem combine to bring Angie and Jace together. An entertaining read, with plenty of steamy scenes. I rate this one a 3.7 out of 5.
Well written, sweet romance: Jace is set in his ways, having been diagnosed on the high functioning end of the Autism spectrum. Angie is on a mission to find love in coastal Australia. When Jace is roped in to boarding a family friend's two adorable dogs, noise, doggie mischief and mayhem combine to bring Angie and Jace together. An entertaining read, with plenty of steamy scenes. I rate this one a 3.7 out of 5.
August 2, 2019
This book was surprisingly sweet! I have to admit, the combination of the word Aussie in the title and the fact that there is a marriage of convenience of sorts mentioned in the synopsis was what sparked my interest. But I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the story went beyond those two simple things.
This story goes beyond being about a woman that needs a visa to stay in Australia and her and annoyed and sexy Australian neighbour. This is actually the story of a woman that had a hard start in life and is trying to keep what she finally considers her home, and a man diagnosed with autism trying to protect himself from the world. Despite them having completely different perceptions of the world and being incompatible in paper even when yielding an attraction that they believe could never make them any good, they become friends. And slowly that turns into something else, all those pieces in the puzzle they never imagined could fit together, falling finally into place and becoming everything they didn't know they needed in the world to be complete. To feel alive. This book was simple, sweet and cute.
*I received an earc via edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
This story goes beyond being about a woman that needs a visa to stay in Australia and her and annoyed and sexy Australian neighbour. This is actually the story of a woman that had a hard start in life and is trying to keep what she finally considers her home, and a man diagnosed with autism trying to protect himself from the world. Despite them having completely different perceptions of the world and being incompatible in paper even when yielding an attraction that they believe could never make them any good, they become friends. And slowly that turns into something else, all those pieces in the puzzle they never imagined could fit together, falling finally into place and becoming everything they didn't know they needed in the world to be complete. To feel alive. This book was simple, sweet and cute.
*I received an earc via edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2019
“Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For being you.”
Stefanie London is a new to us author and her latest book, The Aussie Next Door served as the perfect introduction to her writing. Based in Patterson’s Bluff, a small town in Melbourne Australia, this emotional rom-com was packed with humour, heart, and heat, not to mention a hero who soon had us falling head over heels!
‘The possibility of getting two dreams for the price of one swirled in her mind. A family to love and the chance to stay. Forever.’
Angie Donovan is an American escaping her past. For the first time in her life, she feels contentment in her life in the quirky little coastal town of Patterson’s Bluff. Angie has ensconced herself in the town, made friends, and also made a difference to the elderly residents, trying to implement programs to keep them engaged. Angie is a real sweetheart and has taken to life in Patterson’s Bluff like a duck to water.
However, there is one dark spot on Angie’s horizon. Angie’s visa expires in less than two months, and in order to stay in Australia and avoid the horrible life she left behind in the States, Angie needs to get married. But Angie is a romantic. Having been denied love and warmth in her life, Angie wants to marry for love, not convenience, and it’s a big ask in so little time.
“I always felt like a misfit grown up. Like I didn’t belong. I want someone who makes me feel like I do belong, like I’m wanted and cherished.”
There are a few marriage prospects in the small town but none set her heart a flutter like her stoic, and regimented landlord Jace Walters, (the Aussie next door in the story) and through a couple of loveable little four-legged rascals called Tilly and Truffles, Jace and Angie soon get to know each other more intimately and sparks certainly fly.
Jace Walters has had his share of rejection and he’s quite closed off. Diagnosed on the high functioning spectrum, Jace is a stickler for routine and the beautiful Angie causes him confusion. The author did a fabulous job bringing Jace to life, his idiosyncrasies were endearing, and his Autism didn’t define him, it made him interesting and relatable. We loved his quirky ways and felt his frustration.
“I didn’t’ want you to see me as different.”
“But you are different, Jace. We all are.���
Jace and Angie must break down the barriers which accompany them, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness. We relished the small-town Aussie vibe of this story which was loyal to its roots and vernacular. The townsfolk were such fun and we can’t wait to get to know them better in future books.
There were so many elements we enjoyed in this story. The characters, the setting, the romance, the memorable 90’s rom-com’s we love so much, and of course, add dogs into the equation and we’re goners! Those naughty and sweet little canines kept Jace on his toes and brought endless smiles to our faces! All Angie ever wanted was love, comfort and a home. In this sweet and tender love story; travel with her as she searches for her happily ever after.
“Marriage is just a piece of paper, isn’t it” You said it yourself. Love is what matters.”
On a side note, we’re now Googling Doggie Yoga, we’d love to attend with our fur babies!
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August 8, 2019
3.5 Stars!
The Aussie Next Door is about two people who struggle to fit in with the outside world find comfort in each other. For the first time they find someone who can accept them for who they are if they don't let their own securities get in the way.
Jace has high functioning Autism. He functions better with a routine and occasionally needs alone time to recharge. He's from a big, loving family that can be too loud at times and he feels like he is constantly compared to his brothers. When his one and only relationship fails, he doesn't believe he will find someone who will adjust to his quirks.
Angie grew up in foster care, moving from family to family and sorely mistreated. She still struggles with a need to please people due to her abandonment issues. When lawyers exposed her troubles in the states in the foster care system, she moves to Australia to get away from her problems.
I felt for both Jase and Angie's characters. I liked both of them and wished their insecurities didn't stand so much in the way of finding love. I was a bit surprised to find that this was a heavier story than I was expecting, but it was also very heartwarming. These two were very easy to root for love to conquer all.
The small towns setting and the side characters brought a lot to the story. I could see hints of possible couples for future books in this series. I even loved the two dogs!
The Aussie Next Door is about two people who struggle to fit in with the outside world find comfort in each other. For the first time they find someone who can accept them for who they are if they don't let their own securities get in the way.
Jace has high functioning Autism. He functions better with a routine and occasionally needs alone time to recharge. He's from a big, loving family that can be too loud at times and he feels like he is constantly compared to his brothers. When his one and only relationship fails, he doesn't believe he will find someone who will adjust to his quirks.
Angie grew up in foster care, moving from family to family and sorely mistreated. She still struggles with a need to please people due to her abandonment issues. When lawyers exposed her troubles in the states in the foster care system, she moves to Australia to get away from her problems.
I felt for both Jase and Angie's characters. I liked both of them and wished their insecurities didn't stand so much in the way of finding love. I was a bit surprised to find that this was a heavier story than I was expecting, but it was also very heartwarming. These two were very easy to root for love to conquer all.
The small towns setting and the side characters brought a lot to the story. I could see hints of possible couples for future books in this series. I even loved the two dogs!
August 17, 2021
Jace and Angie were delightfully imperfect and so sweet, I couldn’t help but root for them to find-and grab-a big falling star of happiness! I loved how real these two could be with one another. While most of the story was relatively light and amusing, there were serious moments to balance out the fun, keeping the story pretty well-balanced.
My two favorite scene stealers, however, were Tilley, an older and sarcastically expressive German Shepherd, and Truffle, a rather rascally Chihuahua! The dynamically silly, four-legged duo stole every scene they were in and had me laughing at their antics almost every time they crossed the page!
This book was a delightful read with laugh out loud hilarity, a reluctantly charming and introverted hero, a generously sweet and extroverted heroine, serious doggy cuteness/hijinks, and a touching romance! Basically, if you like romantic comedies, this book would be a perfect fit💗
Thank you, Aly for this wonderful birthday gift!
My two favorite scene stealers, however, were Tilley, an older and sarcastically expressive German Shepherd, and Truffle, a rather rascally Chihuahua! The dynamically silly, four-legged duo stole every scene they were in and had me laughing at their antics almost every time they crossed the page!
This book was a delightful read with laugh out loud hilarity, a reluctantly charming and introverted hero, a generously sweet and extroverted heroine, serious doggy cuteness/hijinks, and a touching romance! Basically, if you like romantic comedies, this book would be a perfect fit💗
Thank you, Aly for this wonderful birthday gift!
August 29, 2019
4.5★s
The Aussie Next Door is the first book in the Patterson’s Bluff series by Australian-born Canadian author, Stefanie London. Jace Walters has been conned! His mother knows how much he needs his routine, but she insists on pushing him out of his comfort zone and into more social interaction, and now she’s volunteered him to dog-sit for two months. Jace has been diagnosed as high-functioning on the autism spectrum and is a gifted comic artist, but it requires a regular discipline, and caring for a chihuahua and a large German shepherd is going to play havoc with that.
Angie Donovan has been living in Jace’s granny flat for 6 months, and if she’s honest, finds him very attractive (he’s hot!!), but he’s obviously not interested in her because he never says much. Angie keeps busy with her volunteer work and loves living in Patterson’s Bluff, where no one knows about her awful past: she has managed to leave behind her unwanted fame in America. But now, all that is at risk, because the visa she had been assured could be extended, will expire in two months. Unless she can think of something soon, she’ll have to go back.
When the ageing shepherd bails up Angie in her kitchen, she and Jace are forced to keep company during a freak electrical storm. Jace is reluctant to spend time with Angie because he can't control his lustful thoughts when she's near. But he definitely doesn't want to see her return to America, and will do almost anything to help her stay.
Her throw-away remark about falling in love and marrying an Aussie fell on hostile ears with Jace: he’s clearly very cynical about the whole idea of marriage, so Angie will have to look elsewhere. Jace is shocked to find that he really hates the idea of Angie with someone else, even though he has absolutely no claim on her.
It is immediately obvious to the reader that Angie and Jace are meant to be together, but even after they eventually give in to their attraction and have some hot sex (fairly explicitly described), it’s going to take a while for each to overcome the psychological damage suffered at the hands of those they trusted, jump some emotional hurdles and accept fate.
London makes a good effort to give her novel an Australian feel but despite this there are some tells that make it clear the novel was written for an American readership. Nevertheless, this is a sweet and sexy romance with predictable but welcome happy-ever-after ending.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing LLC
The Aussie Next Door is the first book in the Patterson’s Bluff series by Australian-born Canadian author, Stefanie London. Jace Walters has been conned! His mother knows how much he needs his routine, but she insists on pushing him out of his comfort zone and into more social interaction, and now she’s volunteered him to dog-sit for two months. Jace has been diagnosed as high-functioning on the autism spectrum and is a gifted comic artist, but it requires a regular discipline, and caring for a chihuahua and a large German shepherd is going to play havoc with that.
Angie Donovan has been living in Jace’s granny flat for 6 months, and if she’s honest, finds him very attractive (he’s hot!!), but he’s obviously not interested in her because he never says much. Angie keeps busy with her volunteer work and loves living in Patterson’s Bluff, where no one knows about her awful past: she has managed to leave behind her unwanted fame in America. But now, all that is at risk, because the visa she had been assured could be extended, will expire in two months. Unless she can think of something soon, she’ll have to go back.
When the ageing shepherd bails up Angie in her kitchen, she and Jace are forced to keep company during a freak electrical storm. Jace is reluctant to spend time with Angie because he can't control his lustful thoughts when she's near. But he definitely doesn't want to see her return to America, and will do almost anything to help her stay.
Her throw-away remark about falling in love and marrying an Aussie fell on hostile ears with Jace: he’s clearly very cynical about the whole idea of marriage, so Angie will have to look elsewhere. Jace is shocked to find that he really hates the idea of Angie with someone else, even though he has absolutely no claim on her.
It is immediately obvious to the reader that Angie and Jace are meant to be together, but even after they eventually give in to their attraction and have some hot sex (fairly explicitly described), it’s going to take a while for each to overcome the psychological damage suffered at the hands of those they trusted, jump some emotional hurdles and accept fate.
London makes a good effort to give her novel an Australian feel but despite this there are some tells that make it clear the novel was written for an American readership. Nevertheless, this is a sweet and sexy romance with predictable but welcome happy-ever-after ending.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing LLC
September 9, 2019
This is such a sweet story about two people that are struggling with issues but end up finding something in each other that they were missing. I loved Jace’s crazy family! They added more fun to an already hilarious story. Angie is trying to find somewhere in the world to have a normal life after a very dramatic and public childhood. She has finally found a place that she wants to call home, but fate intervenes and throws a wrench in to her plans. Jace craves stability and routine in everything that he does; work, life, relationships, etc. Angie is the complete opposite of what Jace looks for in his dating life, but she is everything that he needs. What follows is a comical tale of finding what you are looking for and it being where you least expect it.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
April 19, 2025
Jace Walters grew up in a family of seven, so it comes as no surprise that he wants peace and quiet now. He's a creature of habits and doesn't derogate from his routine. So why the hell did he accepted to take care of his mother's friend's dogs for two months, he doesn't know. There's also his American tenant who confuse him. He find her sexy but he prefer to keep his distance. Too bad for him that Angie Donovan is a friendly and vivacious neighbor who multiply the reasons to knock on his door and have a chat.
Angie moved to Australia two years ago to escape her tragic past as a foster kid. Now there's trouble with her visa and if she doesn't find a solution soon, she'll have to go back to America and leave behind the friends she made volunteering at the home retirement and the little coastal town she love so much. Maybe Jace could help her, but how exactly? And while they're waiting to find a solution, watching 90's rom-com , walking the dogs and a beach party is just a few of the things they'll do to spend the time.
"I like the way I look through your eyes."
What a sweet story and totally endearing characters! Jace is a darling with his nerdy vibe and his quirky difference and Angie, still hopeful and full of life and joy after what she went through and the fact she couldn't count on anyone growing up. And there's the two furry characters, a Chihuahua and a German Sheperd. I totally relate to the hero, with his need for solitude and people not understanding it and his cynical view on love. I loved his kind and open family and hope there's more books coming about his siblings.
I haven't read everything by Stefanie London yet but this one is my favorite so far!❤
Angie moved to Australia two years ago to escape her tragic past as a foster kid. Now there's trouble with her visa and if she doesn't find a solution soon, she'll have to go back to America and leave behind the friends she made volunteering at the home retirement and the little coastal town she love so much. Maybe Jace could help her, but how exactly? And while they're waiting to find a solution, watching 90's rom-com , walking the dogs and a beach party is just a few of the things they'll do to spend the time.
"I like the way I look through your eyes."
What a sweet story and totally endearing characters! Jace is a darling with his nerdy vibe and his quirky difference and Angie, still hopeful and full of life and joy after what she went through and the fact she couldn't count on anyone growing up. And there's the two furry characters, a Chihuahua and a German Sheperd. I totally relate to the hero, with his need for solitude and people not understanding it and his cynical view on love. I loved his kind and open family and hope there's more books coming about his siblings.
I haven't read everything by Stefanie London yet but this one is my favorite so far!❤
May 16, 2020
FULL DISCLOSURE: I cried a lot while reading this story. Most of you won’t (maybe). On the surface, this is a sweet romantic comedy. But if you’re me and have lived my life especially of late, you’d see way more. You’d see the story of a high functioning autistic man who doesn’t quite fit society’s norms trying to love, live and grow while protecting himself from what can sometimes be an uneducated and unsympathetic world. You’d see a woman who’s finally found her place in the world grasping at any lifeline to maintain herself in that place. You’d see two people, who on paper would not match, but if you look beyond the surface, they just might :)
This journey was a sweet and humorous romantic read full of hope and heart. I was thoroughly entertained and engaged thru every scene. I’ve loved this author’s voice for a while but this book was next level good. I probably felt more than the average reader because I know autism and Stefanie London got it right. I cannot tell you how many stories I have read that do not get it right and it is #eyetwitching. This was glorious. Go forth and enjoy!
This journey was a sweet and humorous romantic read full of hope and heart. I was thoroughly entertained and engaged thru every scene. I’ve loved this author’s voice for a while but this book was next level good. I probably felt more than the average reader because I know autism and Stefanie London got it right. I cannot tell you how many stories I have read that do not get it right and it is #eyetwitching. This was glorious. Go forth and enjoy!
September 4, 2019
“Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For being you.”
Stefanie London is a new to us author and her latest book, The Aussie Next Door served as the perfect introduction to her writing. Based in Patterson’s Bluff, a small town in Melbourne Australia, this emotional rom-com was packed with humour, heart, and heat, not to mention a hero who soon had us falling head over heels!
‘The possibility of getting two dreams for the price of one swirled in her mind. A family to love and the chance to stay. Forever.’
Angie Donovan is an American escaping her past. For the first time in her life, she feels contentment in her life in the quirky little coastal town of Patterson’s Bluff. Angie has ensconced herself in the town, made friends, and also made a difference to the elderly residents, trying to implement programs to keep them engaged. Angie is a real sweetheart and has taken to life in Patterson’s Bluff like a duck to water.
However, there is one dark spot on Angie’s horizon. Angie’s visa expires in less than two months, and in order to stay in Australia and avoid the horrible life she left behind in the States, Angie needs to get married. But Angie is a romantic. Having been denied love and warmth in her life, Angie wants to marry for love, not convenience, and it’s a big ask in so little time.
“I always felt like a misfit grown up. Like I didn’t belong. I want someone who makes me feel like I do belong, like I’m wanted and cherished.”
There are a few marriage prospects in the small town but none set her heart a flutter like her stoic, and regimented landlord Jace Walters, (the Aussie next door in the story) and through a couple of loveable little four-legged rascals called Tilly and Truffles, Jace and Angie soon get to know each other more intimately and sparks certainly fly.
Jace Walters has had his share of rejection and he’s quite closed off. Diagnosed on the high functioning spectrum, Jace is a stickler for routine and the beautiful Angie causes him confusion. The author did a fabulous job bringing Jace to life, his idiosyncrasies were endearing, and his Autism didn’t define him, it made him interesting and relatable. We loved his quirky ways and felt his frustration.
“I didn’t’ want you to see me as different.”
“But you are different, Jace. We all are.”
Jace and Angie must break down the barriers which accompany them, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness. We relished the small-town Aussie vibe of this story which was loyal to its roots and vernacular. The townsfolk were such fun and we can’t wait to get to know them better in future books.
There were so many elements we enjoyed in this story. The characters, the setting, the romance, the memorable 90’s rom-com’s we love so much, and of course, add dogs into the equation and we’re goners! Those naughty and sweet little canines kept Jace on his toes and brought endless smiles to our faces! All Angie ever wanted was love, comfort and a home. In this sweet and tender love story; travel with her as she searches for her happily ever after.
“Marriage is just a piece of paper, isn’t it” You said it yourself. Love is what matters.”
On a side note, we’re now Googling Doggie Yoga, we’d love to attend with our fur babies!
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August 29, 2019
Angie needs a fake husband so she can stay in the country. Her hot Aussie neighbor might be a good choice but for the fact that she seems to drive him batty.
"He always had a cool head about him. He was quiet and composed, thoughtful. And hot...so hot. Like, exactly what you think a sexy Australian guy should look like kind of hot. Blue eyes, sandy hair. Crooked Hemsworth smile. Tanned skin. Shoulders broad enough to carry the world."Jace is on the high functioning end of the spectrum. He likes (needs) his routines, his space, and his privacy. So when his cheerful (and gorgeous) American neighbor invades his boundaries, he starts stressing. But...is he stressing because she's upset his routine or because she's looking for a husband among the whole town, and not looking at him?
I was surprised at how much of a quiet impact The Aussie Next Door made. Although it's light in spots, it has a wonderful message and its themes aren't so light. Jace and Angie are two "different" people. Different in quotations because really, everyone's different, but here, their differences are notable. Not because they're bad, but because they're unique. I appreciated how Jace was written especially. Yes, he's on the spectrum and the weight of that is significant, but he's not written that way for dramatic effect, rather than just him being who he is - a successful comic strip writer who happens to be on the spectrum and needs his space. But pair him with Angie, a woman who is as "different" as Jace is, and the two make for a fabulous couple. Not the norm to be sure, and definitely a likable, engaging couple.
ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
Full review ---> Live Through Books Blog.
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August 17, 2019
After fleeing her messy life back in the states, Angie thought she found her "home" in the charming seaside town of Patterson's Bluff, but when her visa extension was denied, there was only one thing she could do - find a husband. Angie needed a marriage of convenience, but she wanted it based upon a real relationship. Her landlord and neighbor, Jace, offered to help her in her quest, but along the way, both realized they had found something worth exploring in each other, however, will their past rejections get in the way of their future together.
There were things, which motivated me to read this book.
1. I adored London's Bad Bachelor series, and was eager to read more of her books.
2. I am trash for the marriage of convenience trope.
3. I am always looking for books set outside the US to feed my wanderlust.
I must say, I made a great choice, because I had a fantastic time reading The Aussie Next Door
First and foremost, this book was a lot of fun. From the antics with the dogs to the family cookout to the card games at the retirement home, London made sure I had a good time and laughed a lot. I always appreciate a good injection of humor and merriment in my stories, but I also found this to be quite an emotional read.
Both Angie and Jace had been hurt in the past. Angie had been abandoned by her parents and spent the rest of her life trying to navigate the foster system. Let's just say it wasn't all ice cream and rainbows for her, and it left her yearning to find a place where she belonged and people, who would love her.
Though Jace came from a rather tight knit, loving, and supportive family (who I LOVED), he always felt a little on the outside of things due to being on the spectrum, and when his romantic relationship fell apart, he abandoned all hope, that he could find that "someone", who would be able to love him "as is".
Seeing these two find a "home" with each other simply filled me with joy. I think everyone can appreciate finding their "people", those who accept them, scars and all, and who don't try to change them.
Overall: This was a lovely story about finding the people, who will love you "as is", and finding the people, who are your home. It was fun, sexy, sweet, and heartwarming, and I am looking forward to returning to Patterson's Bluff.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
There were things, which motivated me to read this book.
1. I adored London's Bad Bachelor series, and was eager to read more of her books.
2. I am trash for the marriage of convenience trope.
3. I am always looking for books set outside the US to feed my wanderlust.
I must say, I made a great choice, because I had a fantastic time reading The Aussie Next Door
First and foremost, this book was a lot of fun. From the antics with the dogs to the family cookout to the card games at the retirement home, London made sure I had a good time and laughed a lot. I always appreciate a good injection of humor and merriment in my stories, but I also found this to be quite an emotional read.
Both Angie and Jace had been hurt in the past. Angie had been abandoned by her parents and spent the rest of her life trying to navigate the foster system. Let's just say it wasn't all ice cream and rainbows for her, and it left her yearning to find a place where she belonged and people, who would love her.
Though Jace came from a rather tight knit, loving, and supportive family (who I LOVED), he always felt a little on the outside of things due to being on the spectrum, and when his romantic relationship fell apart, he abandoned all hope, that he could find that "someone", who would be able to love him "as is".
Seeing these two find a "home" with each other simply filled me with joy. I think everyone can appreciate finding their "people", those who accept them, scars and all, and who don't try to change them.
Overall: This was a lovely story about finding the people, who will love you "as is", and finding the people, who are your home. It was fun, sexy, sweet, and heartwarming, and I am looking forward to returning to Patterson's Bluff.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
August 29, 2019
DNF at 42%.
Angie Donovan left a life of unwanted notoriety in the US for a life of anonymity in small town Australia, but then she finds out she has to leave Australia unless she can fall in love and marry within a few short months.
Angie's next door neighbour is hunky cartoonist Jace. Unbeknownst to Angie, Jace has high functioning autism which means he struggles to understand other people's feelings or how to act in certain situations. He likes that Angie doesn't know about his autism, that she treats him like a regular guy. He likes Angie and wants her to stay but it takes him months to decide on a new brand of trainers, a decision like marriage would take him years.
Angie decides she will do everything she can to find someone, with the aim of falling in love and getting married before she gets deported.
The blurb for this read made me think it would be romantic comedy: a large interfering family; a series of dates; unruly dogs; and Jace sabotaging Angie's dates. To a certain extent I did get this but it all seemed pretty muted, nearly half way into the book and Angie has only been on one date. I also struggled with Jace's portrayal which made him seem a bit simple. There have been some great books released in the last few years which portray autism with empathy - in contrast this felt like Jace was a 16 year old child rather than a man.
Overall, I found the pace too slow, the characters overly sweet and the plot wasn't developing fast enough and I gave up.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Angie Donovan left a life of unwanted notoriety in the US for a life of anonymity in small town Australia, but then she finds out she has to leave Australia unless she can fall in love and marry within a few short months.
Angie's next door neighbour is hunky cartoonist Jace. Unbeknownst to Angie, Jace has high functioning autism which means he struggles to understand other people's feelings or how to act in certain situations. He likes that Angie doesn't know about his autism, that she treats him like a regular guy. He likes Angie and wants her to stay but it takes him months to decide on a new brand of trainers, a decision like marriage would take him years.
Angie decides she will do everything she can to find someone, with the aim of falling in love and getting married before she gets deported.
The blurb for this read made me think it would be romantic comedy: a large interfering family; a series of dates; unruly dogs; and Jace sabotaging Angie's dates. To a certain extent I did get this but it all seemed pretty muted, nearly half way into the book and Angie has only been on one date. I also struggled with Jace's portrayal which made him seem a bit simple. There have been some great books released in the last few years which portray autism with empathy - in contrast this felt like Jace was a 16 year old child rather than a man.
Overall, I found the pace too slow, the characters overly sweet and the plot wasn't developing fast enough and I gave up.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 26, 2019
3.75/5 stars
This is the first book that I have read from this author and I am glad that I took the chance. This was a wonderful and fun read that will have you feeling all the emotions with each page flip. The characters of Jace and Angie were so realistic. The chemistry between the characters was great. They each had their own issues and struggles to work through but they were able to so they can get the HEA that they deserved.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is the first book that I have read from this author and I am glad that I took the chance. This was a wonderful and fun read that will have you feeling all the emotions with each page flip. The characters of Jace and Angie were so realistic. The chemistry between the characters was great. They each had their own issues and struggles to work through but they were able to so they can get the HEA that they deserved.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 31, 2019
For every heartache that darkens our day, a rainbow is waiting to chase the storm away. The Aussie Next Door takes a childhood wish and turns it into an adult love story. All Angie ever wanted was someone to love. After a childhood of disappointment as an adult she decides to make a change. A fresh start is just what she needs to leave her troubles behind. Her new beginning turns into an adventure of the heart. Jace is the culmination of a dream she never thought would come true. Has love finally led her to that missing piece of her heart?
September 4, 2019
*Actual rating: 4.5 stars
The moment I read the synopsis, I knew I needed this book in my life. It sounded like the absolute cutest romance and I’m always a sucker for the marriage of convenience trope. Especially when it’s clear that the two characters are perfect for each other.
Angie Donovan had a terrible upbringing. She bounced from foster home to foster home and became a househole name in America for a traumatizing experience during her childhood. Finally having of enough of not being able to espace everyone knowing her story, she moves to Australia, where it only takes her moments to fall in love with Patterson’s Bluff.
Unfortunately, her two-year visa is coming to an end and her request for an extension has been denied. Because of the time she has left in the country before her visa expires, she’s all out of options. Well, almost. She has one last restort she can turn to, and that is to find the perfect Australian man who she can marry.
Enter the sweethearts of all sweethearts, Jace Walters, her next door neighbour and landlord. He lives alone and is quite the hermit. He has high-fuctioning autism and loves his routine. It keeps him grounded. But that dang American girl next door keeps distracting him.
It’s clear from the start that both Angie and Jace are into each other. But Angie thinks Jace doesn’t like her and Jace doesn’t want a distraction in the form of the force of nature that is Angie. Too bad for them, life has other plans.
Their romance was one of the most adorable and wholesome ones I’ve read about in a while. They way these two cared for each other was goals. They both accepted each other for the things they felt judged for and embraced one another for who they were at their best moments and their worst. They had me smiling throughout most of the novel.
The writing was also very well done. Stefanie London wrote a great plot line, capitivating characters, and a romance that will make you “awwww” out loud.
Overall, this was a lovely contemporary romance novel and I highly suggest that you pick it up. It’s worth your time.
The moment I read the synopsis, I knew I needed this book in my life. It sounded like the absolute cutest romance and I’m always a sucker for the marriage of convenience trope. Especially when it’s clear that the two characters are perfect for each other.
Angie Donovan had a terrible upbringing. She bounced from foster home to foster home and became a househole name in America for a traumatizing experience during her childhood. Finally having of enough of not being able to espace everyone knowing her story, she moves to Australia, where it only takes her moments to fall in love with Patterson’s Bluff.
Unfortunately, her two-year visa is coming to an end and her request for an extension has been denied. Because of the time she has left in the country before her visa expires, she’s all out of options. Well, almost. She has one last restort she can turn to, and that is to find the perfect Australian man who she can marry.
Enter the sweethearts of all sweethearts, Jace Walters, her next door neighbour and landlord. He lives alone and is quite the hermit. He has high-fuctioning autism and loves his routine. It keeps him grounded. But that dang American girl next door keeps distracting him.
It’s clear from the start that both Angie and Jace are into each other. But Angie thinks Jace doesn’t like her and Jace doesn’t want a distraction in the form of the force of nature that is Angie. Too bad for them, life has other plans.
Their romance was one of the most adorable and wholesome ones I’ve read about in a while. They way these two cared for each other was goals. They both accepted each other for the things they felt judged for and embraced one another for who they were at their best moments and their worst. They had me smiling throughout most of the novel.
The writing was also very well done. Stefanie London wrote a great plot line, capitivating characters, and a romance that will make you “awwww” out loud.
Overall, this was a lovely contemporary romance novel and I highly suggest that you pick it up. It’s worth your time.
August 24, 2019
MS London has done it again, written a story that is filled with so many emotions, fun and laughter, heartfelt warmth, wonderful family life and a sensual pull that will warm anyone up, this is a true romance that is sure to leave any reader feeling so good, lots of happy sighs in this one, I didn’t want to put it down. I loved my visit to Patterson’s Bluff.
Angie Donovan has escaped to Australia to get away from a childhood and past that left her wanting love and happiness and by moving to Australia she is hoping that she will find that. Always the happy, helpful and kind person, Angie finally settles in Patterson’s Bluff a beautiful coastal town in Victoria, she rents a little granny flat from one of the towns favourite’s Jace Walters, she is very happy that is until her visa is just about to run out, can she find an Aussie to fall in love with in two months, is there any chance that if could be Jace?
Jace Walters comes from a big happy Aussie family, but Jace craves his own time and his own routine, so moving out of his family home suits him, really well he is a cartoonist who has a fabulous cartoon Hermit Vs The World and he loves his surfing, but life as Jace knows it is going to change when beautiful American Angie moves in and he decides to help her find someone to fall in love with.
I loved this one from start to finish and am thrilled that it is the first of a series I can’t wait to go back to Patterson’s Bluff I want to move there. Angie is a beautiful heroine, beautiful on the inside and out, caring and loving and Jace he is a very special hero who has needs that keep him going, add a couple of cheeky dogs and these four have the time of their life together, yes there are some hurdles to jump, but there are laughs and smiles to keep everyone turning the pages. I highly recommend this one, don’t miss this one.
Angie Donovan has escaped to Australia to get away from a childhood and past that left her wanting love and happiness and by moving to Australia she is hoping that she will find that. Always the happy, helpful and kind person, Angie finally settles in Patterson’s Bluff a beautiful coastal town in Victoria, she rents a little granny flat from one of the towns favourite’s Jace Walters, she is very happy that is until her visa is just about to run out, can she find an Aussie to fall in love with in two months, is there any chance that if could be Jace?
Jace Walters comes from a big happy Aussie family, but Jace craves his own time and his own routine, so moving out of his family home suits him, really well he is a cartoonist who has a fabulous cartoon Hermit Vs The World and he loves his surfing, but life as Jace knows it is going to change when beautiful American Angie moves in and he decides to help her find someone to fall in love with.
I loved this one from start to finish and am thrilled that it is the first of a series I can’t wait to go back to Patterson’s Bluff I want to move there. Angie is a beautiful heroine, beautiful on the inside and out, caring and loving and Jace he is a very special hero who has needs that keep him going, add a couple of cheeky dogs and these four have the time of their life together, yes there are some hurdles to jump, but there are laughs and smiles to keep everyone turning the pages. I highly recommend this one, don’t miss this one.
September 5, 2019
After her life imploded in the states, Angie thought a chance to define her life and herself without all of the baggage from foster care and instability was a great idea. She headed off to Australia and found a spot that suited in little Patterson’s Bluff. The only hitch in her plan is that annoying neighbor Jace – who values his privacy and ‘alone time’ more than she thinks he should. But the time down under for Angie is coming to an end – with her visa extension denied, she has two options. Leave the country when her time is up OR find herself a husband and stay.
Determined not to leave – she starts to find every available man around – and where better than her neighbor. It’s purely a marriage of convenience so they don’t really have to like each other, or live together – or even interact that much. But why does she want to? What is it about Jace that annoys and intrigues her in equal measure?
Cute, rather sweet and fairly predictable - it is the interactions between Jace and Angie, and their slow warming to one another despite the circumstances that made this story sing. London’s ability to write conversations and reactions is wonderful – and the tension between these two built neatly through each of those interactions. With Jace’s need to be alone, and Angie’s desire for a family that is welcoming and accepting and most of all loving – the two slowly accommodate each other’s needs and desires in ways that show slow isn’t always a bad thing. A clever change in romance reading from a contemporary story, and one that left me with a smile.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Determined not to leave – she starts to find every available man around – and where better than her neighbor. It’s purely a marriage of convenience so they don’t really have to like each other, or live together – or even interact that much. But why does she want to? What is it about Jace that annoys and intrigues her in equal measure?
Cute, rather sweet and fairly predictable - it is the interactions between Jace and Angie, and their slow warming to one another despite the circumstances that made this story sing. London’s ability to write conversations and reactions is wonderful – and the tension between these two built neatly through each of those interactions. With Jace’s need to be alone, and Angie’s desire for a family that is welcoming and accepting and most of all loving – the two slowly accommodate each other’s needs and desires in ways that show slow isn’t always a bad thing. A clever change in romance reading from a contemporary story, and one that left me with a smile.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
March 3, 2020
This started so much better than it ended. We needed more "happy time".
August 28, 2019
When Jace Walters is forced into dog sitting a family friend’s two adorable dogs, his life is turned upside down. Ms. London's start to The Aussie Next Door is adorable and engaging. I loved the small town setting and the strong sense of family and community. The slower pace seemed to fit the story, and there is just enough humor to add a sense of charm and appeal to the characters and plot.
The author treated Jace, an on-the-spectrum character, respectfully; she clearly made an effort to present his struggles without making the character pitiful. The character’s self doubts (especially relative to his siblings) and his avoidance of social gatherings and people is clearly evident.
I liked Angie’s bubbly personality and involvement in her adopted country. Her past is tragic because readers are told it is. Her backstory was not explored enough to make her a sympathetic character to me. In fact both main characters’ issues are developed just enough for them to be relationship hurdles and to depict two awkward adults whose insecurities and social struggles limit their ability to fit in. Exploring Angie and Jace’s backstory further would have given The Aussie Next Door more depth.
I loved the Walters clan. They’re a big, warm family. I felt drawn to each of these secondary characters.
When Jace's ex comes back in town, I anticipated some juicy conflict and plot tension. However, their eventual meet up provides the epiphany that allows Jace to pursue Angie and help her stay in the country. While my anticipated drama would have been meatier, the reappearance of the ex-fiance did provide a nice catalyst for change.
Angie’s pursuit of immigration fraud put me off from the start. It is not a premise that I find acceptable, and that definitely colored my perception of the story and characters. I picked up the book because I’ve read and enjoyed some of Ms. London’s previous books, and if I had paid more attention to the description, I would have passed on this story. The book and writing are not without merit, the characters and setting are interesting and the denouement is authentic.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
The author treated Jace, an on-the-spectrum character, respectfully; she clearly made an effort to present his struggles without making the character pitiful. The character’s self doubts (especially relative to his siblings) and his avoidance of social gatherings and people is clearly evident.
I liked Angie’s bubbly personality and involvement in her adopted country. Her past is tragic because readers are told it is. Her backstory was not explored enough to make her a sympathetic character to me. In fact both main characters’ issues are developed just enough for them to be relationship hurdles and to depict two awkward adults whose insecurities and social struggles limit their ability to fit in. Exploring Angie and Jace’s backstory further would have given The Aussie Next Door more depth.
I loved the Walters clan. They’re a big, warm family. I felt drawn to each of these secondary characters.
When Jace's ex comes back in town, I anticipated some juicy conflict and plot tension. However, their eventual meet up provides the epiphany that allows Jace to pursue Angie and help her stay in the country. While my anticipated drama would have been meatier, the reappearance of the ex-fiance did provide a nice catalyst for change.
Angie’s pursuit of immigration fraud put me off from the start. It is not a premise that I find acceptable, and that definitely colored my perception of the story and characters. I picked up the book because I’ve read and enjoyed some of Ms. London’s previous books, and if I had paid more attention to the description, I would have passed on this story. The book and writing are not without merit, the characters and setting are interesting and the denouement is authentic.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
July 6, 2019
Such a cute story. Definitely a must read. It catches you from the start and keeps you till the end. Add it to your list.
August 28, 2019
‘The Aussie Next Door’ is the first book I have read by Stefanie London, and i was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The book focuses on Angie Donovan, an American who is in Australia on a visa. Unfortunately her visa is approaching expiration, and she is forced to comprehend that she has to now leave a country that is the first place to feel like home to her. She has had a turbulent upbringing of being in the foster system, and you learn that she very much wants to stay and forget her past and work towards a brighter future.
Whilst being told that she is unable to stay on Australia, her sleazy advisor hints she should marry him, as having a wife would make him look good to officials and other prospective clients. Despite how much he makes Angie’s skin crawl, she can’t help but mull over the idea, and with only two months until she has to say farewell to Oz, she wonders if she could fall in love and find a willing groom. So her pursuit to find a husband begins.
Jace Walters is one of those characters you can’t help but love. You learn that he is one of seven, successful and is on the spectrum of Autism. He has a set routine, a set way of life, and to others they perceive him to be unable to let his hair down and unwind. However, you see a different side to Jace with how he interacts and feels around Angie, his beautiful neighbour who he can’t help but admire.
You learn that Jace was once in a committed relationship whereby his ex-fiancée was unable to tolerate his set ways, and as a consequence Jace does not think much of marriage and settling. He is independent and is forging a good career creating a cartoon on the side of his main employment, and he’s so sweet.
When his mother forces him into dog sitting three unruly mutts, unwanted fun finds Jace, and he ends up recruiting Angie to help him search and look after the dogs, and they bring them closer together. You see Jace unwind with Angie, and thus sparking a sweet romance.
I love the opposites attract situation in this book, and I liked the focus around Jace’s autism and helping normalise it to readers and society. He is highly intelligent, funny in his own way and endearing.
I enjoyed the premise of this story even though it was predictable, but written in such a nice way and kept my interest. An overall easy and entertaining read, and ideal for sweeter romance lovers.
The book focuses on Angie Donovan, an American who is in Australia on a visa. Unfortunately her visa is approaching expiration, and she is forced to comprehend that she has to now leave a country that is the first place to feel like home to her. She has had a turbulent upbringing of being in the foster system, and you learn that she very much wants to stay and forget her past and work towards a brighter future.
Whilst being told that she is unable to stay on Australia, her sleazy advisor hints she should marry him, as having a wife would make him look good to officials and other prospective clients. Despite how much he makes Angie’s skin crawl, she can’t help but mull over the idea, and with only two months until she has to say farewell to Oz, she wonders if she could fall in love and find a willing groom. So her pursuit to find a husband begins.
Jace Walters is one of those characters you can’t help but love. You learn that he is one of seven, successful and is on the spectrum of Autism. He has a set routine, a set way of life, and to others they perceive him to be unable to let his hair down and unwind. However, you see a different side to Jace with how he interacts and feels around Angie, his beautiful neighbour who he can’t help but admire.
You learn that Jace was once in a committed relationship whereby his ex-fiancée was unable to tolerate his set ways, and as a consequence Jace does not think much of marriage and settling. He is independent and is forging a good career creating a cartoon on the side of his main employment, and he’s so sweet.
When his mother forces him into dog sitting three unruly mutts, unwanted fun finds Jace, and he ends up recruiting Angie to help him search and look after the dogs, and they bring them closer together. You see Jace unwind with Angie, and thus sparking a sweet romance.
I love the opposites attract situation in this book, and I liked the focus around Jace’s autism and helping normalise it to readers and society. He is highly intelligent, funny in his own way and endearing.
I enjoyed the premise of this story even though it was predictable, but written in such a nice way and kept my interest. An overall easy and entertaining read, and ideal for sweeter romance lovers.
September 2, 2019
Thank you so much to @entangled_publishing for sending me the lovely new release by @stefanielondon.
Full disclaimer, I have been a huge fan of Stefanie’s since reading Bad Bachelor. She is a talented writer and a lovely human. You should definitely follow her on Insta. She also knows everything there is to know about lipstick and sparkly eyeshadow! 💋💋💋 The Aussie Next Door was a sweet romance with some seriously great laugh out loud moments. Our heroine is running to escape her past and enjoys the anonymity of Australia. Our hero is a swoon-worthy fella next door who is a talented comic writer/illustrator and is also on the spectrum! I learned so much from this book and the characters made my heart beat fast! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Full disclaimer, I have been a huge fan of Stefanie’s since reading Bad Bachelor. She is a talented writer and a lovely human. You should definitely follow her on Insta. She also knows everything there is to know about lipstick and sparkly eyeshadow! 💋💋💋 The Aussie Next Door was a sweet romance with some seriously great laugh out loud moments. Our heroine is running to escape her past and enjoys the anonymity of Australia. Our hero is a swoon-worthy fella next door who is a talented comic writer/illustrator and is also on the spectrum! I learned so much from this book and the characters made my heart beat fast! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 23, 2019
Amazing! This book was an absolutely amazing romance. The story is fun and lighter, the entire cast of characters lovable and the emotions are deep and sweet. This book simply melted my heart! I felt that Jace was a unique, timely and relevent character. I appreciate when authors strive for inclusion and diversity in their work. Angi's painful past was just heartbreaking. I enjoyed every single minute that it took for these two to find the love and happiness they deserved. This is my sincere review that I am voluntarily posting.
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