Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Sinful Bachelors #1

His Girl Next Door

Rate this book
From USA Today Bestselling author Khardine Gray comes a sizzling hot single dad romance you won’t want to miss.

No strings attached fun with the uber-gorgeous single dad next door?

Yes, please.

Look at him.

Who would say no to Ryan Donovan with his perfect body, perfect everything, and those piercing green eyes?

Not me.

So, when he came to me with the idea, I said a big, fat yes.

Our attraction was the kind of insane you see in the movies.

I was only going to be in town for eight months for my work assignment, which meant no strings attached fun would be easy, and we would say goodbye at the end.

I would go back to L.A., and he would stay here.

No problem, no drama, no stress.

It felt easy as I played the game and went through the motions.

It felt easy because I had a line I always drew under relationships.

A line I never crossed.

But... then he unlocked something inside me.

Something I hid away from the world.

No strings attached fun... what could possibly go wrong?

I thought nothing.

Then everything became a complicated, sexy mess that turned my heart inside out.

295 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 9, 2018

616 people are currently reading
1416 people want to read

About the author

Khardine Gray

126 books849 followers
Khardine Gray is a USA Today Bestselling author who also writes under the pen name Faith Summers.
Khardine lives in England with her husband and two adventurous kids.
She writes contemporary romance, dark romantic suspense, and dark new adult romance.
Her books have sassy heroines and sexy, drool-worthy book boyfriends who will make you melt.
She simply adores her readers and loves spoiling them.
When she’s not writing or reading, you can find her in a ballet class or ice skating.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
540 (41%)
4 stars
456 (35%)
3 stars
224 (17%)
2 stars
48 (3%)
1 star
21 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
Profile Image for Carmen Rae.
1,692 reviews187 followers
December 26, 2018
Ok I admit it, I picked the book up for the cover. And it was good. A sweet little story to read over the Christmas madness of cooking and picking up a million toy boxes.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews132 followers
Want to read
May 29, 2024
🎃 FREE on Amazon today (10/31/2019)! 🎃
Profile Image for Michelle.
232 reviews1 follower
August 4, 2024
What a great summer read! Wonderful cast of characters. Sweet, endearing story, prepare your emotions to take a ride.
Profile Image for Babs.
Author 16 books190 followers
January 23, 2019
Ryan is hurrying home to see if his 16 year old daughter leaves the house and who with. As he pulls up she is getting on a motorcycle with some guy. Starting to run to them a car is coming at him out of control.

Brooke jumps out of the car thinking it finally broke down until she kicks it. The car takes off and as she and Ryan run after it, the car goes over the pier and into the water.

A lovely way to meet your new neighbor has he thinks you are high on drugs and she thinks Ryan is a jerk cop.

Ryan keeps hitting roadblocks with his daughter and Brooke is trying her best to get an interview with an olympic star but the woman hates Brooke. Can the reporter in Brooke break through and can Ryan and his daughter take her for eight months?

A lovely story and which was fun to read. Seeing Brooke and Aria come together was amazing. Most 30 year olds don’t take to the young girl that easy. She is a big help with Ryan trying to deal with being a widower and single parent. The love these two share comes through the pages and find yourself wanting to know more. The characters are well develop and you since the urgency in Brooke proving herself. We see her character grow. Ryan is trying his best to do right by his daughter and it was nice to see him working so hard. Sometimes you just have to let go and see what happens.

Profile Image for Rosie Amber.
Author 1 book84 followers
March 26, 2024
4.5 stars

His Girl Next Door is a contemporary romance in a small American seaside town.

Journalist Brooke has come to town to spend eight months writing a feature piece about an Olympian athlete. Her arrival in town is spectacular - her rental car goes out of control and ends up in the sea.

Detective Ryan is fuming, first at his teenage daughter who is sneaking around and secondly at the driver of the rental car that swerved dangerously down the road nearly knocking him over. It’s a Friday, Ryan detests Fridays, his wife died on a Friday, his daughter is out of control and the crazy car driver—no, he won’t admit she’s attractive— is his new neighbour.

This was a fun enemies-to-lovers romance. I really liked all the characters and their successes in work, play and life were infectious. The ending is guaranteed, but it is the journey that matters and what an ending! Loved it!
4,323 reviews21 followers
December 13, 2018
This romance is steamy, sets a good pace, flows smoothly and has awesome characters. The main characters are a detective and a journalist who meet under bizarre circumstances. Good thing first impressions are sometimes very wrong. The H is a single dad who is a detective, while the h is a journalist who is on temporary assignment and sparks fly. They act on a proposed arrangement to realize that is not really what they want. This is their journey. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Colleen.
839 reviews35 followers
January 4, 2019
I was starting to worry with a run of DNF novels of late. Is me? Is the joy of reading coming to end for me?

A BIG FAT NOOOooooo! Just the wrong books!!!

I loved this book. At 55% read, I knew it was a five star. All my favourite tropes (see my shelves). The character development was fantastic. Thank you, Ms. Gray, thank you for restoring my joy of reading. I am now going to binge read your other stories.

Cheers (Happy 2019 reading)
Profile Image for Dakota Beattie.
6 reviews4 followers
July 25, 2024
The kinda predictable you become obsessed with seeing unfold
Profile Image for Sarah Coady.
51 reviews
January 18, 2025
2.5 stars. Despite the errors throughout, it was an overall mediocre book. Predictable plot and outcome.
51 reviews
December 14, 2018
Running away from everything in LA for a short time Brooke is looking to better her career and only finds that she is going to get more than she bargained for in small town Wilmington. Ryan has had a lot to deal with and feels like he is in over his head at this point with his daughter Aria then one "I hate Fridays" he meets Brooke and his life is forever changed.

In this story not only do you get the main characters Khardine has done a great job of building the story with the daughter Aria and the gold medalist Sally. I would have liked to see a bit more on the best friend Aaron. It gave more depth to the story and made it feel complete where a lot of books do not do that.

I enjoyed the overall story and would recommend the read.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews64 followers
March 13, 2019
This book starts out as a fully Shakespearean comedy of errors. If it can go wrong, it happens to Ryan and Brooke. And then they have to recover from those disasterous first impressions. It’s a sweet and steamy story that follows one of my favorite themes: two people who think they’re getting into a relationship without feelings, only to discover tht they can’t escape what they feel when the emotions get too big and too real. There’s also several of the supporting cast who stood out and I would love to see them get their own books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Nate.
24.3k reviews19 followers
December 13, 2018
Couldn't get enough of Ryan & Brooke. Wow. Loved the characters. This was such a fun read. Loved it. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book.
Profile Image for Heather.
755 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2025
This is the first book of the Sinful Bachelors series, and it can be read as a standalone. This is the story of a widowed, single dad who finds love again with the most unexpected woman. This is Ryan and Brooke's story.

Ryan is a widowed single father with a teenage daughter. He is also a police detective which keeps him from being home at normal hours with Aria. She is growing up fast and he is finding it hard to balance being a dad with work. One night he finds her getting on a motorcycle with a guy one night and he loses his mind. He is only deterred from stopping her by a wayward driver who almost ran her car into them.

Brooke has nothing but bad luck lately and this eight-month job away from home is just what she needs to give herself a fresh start. She is so excited to interview one of her lifelong heroes and write this piece for People magazine. Only problem is her bad luck has followed her and she almost runs into a very handsome man who looks really angry!

These two get off to a very rocky start, but quickly their relationship begins to change. Brooke meets Aria before she "officially" meets her dad and falls in love with her right away. They form a very quick friendship and once she realizes her father is Ryan she starts to slowly see him in a different light.

These two characters have both experienced loss and life challenges. They start a relationship that is only supposed to last as long as Brooke is in town, but they both know they can't let each other go. The way their relationship builds is great to watch. I also loved the relationship between Brooke and Aria. That is how Aria was able to bridge her relationship with Ryan and I loved that. The addition of Sally and her storyline with Brooke was great too.

This book had humor, some emotional moments, good characters and plenty of sexy time. Overall this was a very pleasant read that I really enjoyed. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for AussieBookAddict (Mel).
257 reviews4 followers
December 4, 2023
My Rating: ★★★★★

Khardine Gray's "His Girl Next Door," published by Bliss Romance Publishing on December 9, 2018, emerges as a tantalizing and satisfying romantic read that earns a well-deserved ★★★★★ rating.

The reviewer dives into the enticing premise of the book, where the protagonist finds herself entangled in a no-strings-attached affair with the irresistible single dad next door, Ryan Donovan. The allure of this unconventional connection sets the stage for a story that promises steamy encounters, playful banter, and the kind of slow-burn romance that sends shivers down the spine.

The enthusiastic "Oh my lord" at the beginning of the opinion captures the reader's excitement and sets the tone for what follows. The reviewer gushes about the off-the-charts slow-burn boy/girl next door vibes, emphasizing the perfect blend of spice and sensuality that makes this book a standout read.

The appreciation for the quick and satisfying nature of the story is evident in the descriptor "perfect for a quick day read." The acknowledgment of the book's ability to deliver growth and development between the characters in a short span adds depth to the praise.

The reviewer's expression of being taken on a journey of unexpected love, where "everything became a complicated, sexy mess," hints at the complexities that elevate the narrative beyond a typical romance. The desire for a reread down the track solidifies the book's lasting impact and replay value.

In conclusion, "His Girl Next Door" is celebrated for its sizzling slow burn, character growth, and irresistible charm. Khardine Gray crafts a tale that is not only perfect for a quick escape but also leaves a lasting impression, making it a must-read for fans of steamy, heartwarming romance.
Profile Image for Rachel.
194 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2024
More of a 3.5 than a three star for me, but I rounded down. I enjoyed this book, and it was exactly what I wanted. It was a HEA and cutesy, and I literally read it in one day. I read it after a heavy fantasy novel and it was a perfect, easy palate cleanser, and I would have given it a four for being exactly what I needed but for my gripes. The end felt rushed in editing, there are some glaring mistakes, and they happen, but getting her brother’s name wrong and misspelling the main character’s name feels messy. This was marketed as “opposites attract” but it is only LIGHTLY there. The MMC is supposed to be the bad boy “dark broody” guy if she is the opposite bubbly and sunshine, but frankly this isn’t the case. This is my interpretation, especially based on how he is portrayed in the beginning. This is less opposites attract and more just fun witty banter (which was great). Another knock for me was how police were portrayed - and I know this is not real, but a cop forcing a confession out of someone by putting his gun to the guys head is wild, even for a romance novel. In summary, this made me emotional a few times, it was short, which meant it was a little cheesy, it it definitely delivered on what I needed and wanted
544 reviews4 followers
October 14, 2024
Rating: 3.5 rounded to 4 stars

I liked the premise of the plot - next door neighbors, smaller town, single dad, almost enemies to lovers. It could be really good. I like how Brooke started the friendship with Aria (Ryan's daughter) first and then their relationship dynamic. I also liked Sally's character and what she contributed to the plot.
But there were some drawbacks too. Firstly, I'm not really a fan of the timeline. At first, the events were rather slow and then it skipped a few months. Like one time the main characters realize their feelings for each other, and the next time it's almost a 6 months later and they did nothing in that regard.
Secondly, there was quite a lot of errors - some spelling ones, some formatting ones, some skipping to the next line in the middle of sentence, some name mistakes and even mistaking the years (Olympics in Atlanta, which is a crucial event for Brooke's past and since it was a real event, it stood out that at first it was mentioned it was in 1992 - false and then the correct year - 1996)... I know that this book is for free on Amazon most (if not all) of the time, but it looks kind of sloppy.
Profile Image for Ally ✨📚💕.
273 reviews1 follower
January 19, 2024
Ameeee, ame este libro. Amo cuando las protagonistas tienen una personalidad más extrovertida, un poco más problemática y saben cuando decirle al MMC que se vaya a joder a otro lado jajajaja Brooke my queen.

La historia en sí fue muy ligera, fácil de leer, adictiva e ideal cuando estas saturado con un genero y necesitas algo que no te tome mucho esfuerzo leer. La historia es divertida y el romance fue demasiado cute, pero si sentí que ciertas cosas se dieron muy abruptamente y hubo muchos saltos en el tiempo que de alguna forma le restaron momentos a los protagonistas y le quito un poco de peso a los sentimientos que decían tener. Esos dos mis únicas dos quejas, sentí que faltaron escenas significativas entre ellos fuera del dormitorio para que cuando se diera todo el desenlace tuviera sentido el romance, pero no se dio; Y el final fue demasiado abrupto.

Aun así es una linda historia y me divertí montones.
Profile Image for Anni Barkla.
230 reviews5 followers
August 27, 2024
I really enjoyed this story about Brooke & single dad Ryan. It was very heartfelt, poor Brooke, everything just kept going wrong for her and Officer Asshole just topped it off. 😂 But push come to shove, Aria (Ryan’s daughter) was a hilarious teenage addition, Noah, was a great character as Brooke’s best friend. Once the leads got their act together- they were fire. 🔥🔥🌶️🌶️The love connection was believe-able and the HEA was lovely. It had enough going on to keep me interested in the story to the very last page. Great read.
Profile Image for Cathy P.
1,790 reviews9 followers
April 11, 2019
Such a great Romance

There were funny moments, but no laugh out loud. There was ,however, an epic love story. I wish I could give it more stars. I got it based on previous reviews. Just finished a heavy book and wanted a funny romcom. This would be considered a romcom, enemies to lovers. It's so well written and I fell on love with the characters and their struggles and accomplishments. These two were so perfect together. Miss mouth and officer areshole. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for August Orlean.
21 reviews
February 21, 2024
While it is a quick and okay read, there were moments I edged towards a DNF. Some of the figurative language was overdone or at times felt like different phrasing would have been more appropriate. The spicy scenes needed some editing to truly bring out the passion. Overall, if you’re looking for a sweet romance that’s a relatively quick read, then this is it. If you need more from a book, something that evokes a multitude of emotions, then move on to something else.
Profile Image for Sunstarandsea.
355 reviews4 followers
January 8, 2025
This book made me realize that I should probably do an extra shelf, which is "all around ok" - and that's probably where I would put this.

Brooke and Ryan. He's a single father, widower cop with a rebellious teenage daughter. She moves in next door, on assignment for 6 months. They're from completely different worlds; he's a blue collar, never been to college and she's an Ivy League educated editor at People, in town to do a profile on an Olympic athlete. Sparks fly, they agree it's only short term but then of course, feelings get involved - you don't really need an Ivy League degree to figure out the rest.

There wasn't really anything which stood out for me with this book; plot line felt like I'd heard it one too many times, writing was ok, the characters felt a little too perfect (almost like Barbie World). He struggles with his relationship with his rebellious teenager, but enter Brooke to save the day with a $1000 dress for prom. It's small things like that - where the issues are relatively shallow and get fixed quickly, so the plot sort of just middles along.

It was entertaining, the MCs seem hot but it wasn't my cup of tea. I'm sure it would work as a palette cleanser.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.2k reviews258 followers
January 18, 2019
Loved this story!!

This is a beautifully written love story which this talented author has done a fantastic job in penning. I was totally captivated throughout this additive page turner and I cannot wait to read more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend for all readers.
Profile Image for Crystal ( Meeka).
470 reviews2 followers
January 19, 2019
Wow!!!!!🔥😍😢

I truly enjoyed reading this book!! This book was so good and had me hooked from the first page to thee end!!! I love Ryan and Brooke love story!! This book had me on emotional ride!!! This story tugged on the heart strings for real!!! A MUST READ!!! Add this to your collection!! You won’t be sorry!!!😍
393 reviews
November 29, 2019
Wasnt for me.

I think this book needs better editing and a smooth flow. I had to keep rereading sentences because they were mashed together and didnt make sense. I kept hoping by the middle it would even out but it never did. Honestly I couldn't even finish the book. Which I always finish.
5 reviews
December 21, 2021
I reallyyyyy liked this story .the banter between the MCs was smooth flowing throughout the story.this story had a really feel good vibes.

No angst . confusion about each other feelings will be there which of course will be resolved .

Go ahead and read people you won't regret reading this story
Profile Image for Stephanie Bolen.
2,168 reviews28 followers
January 27, 2024
Not bad

It's a very small town romance. A big city girl comes to a smaller city and teaches herself and everyone to love. I enjoyed Sally and Ryan. The book doesn't start off good. It should have started with her and the brakes going out. His perspective isn't good at the start and at least her's starts out hopeful.
Profile Image for Elaine Swinney.
2,211 reviews7 followers
April 24, 2024
For me I give this a 3.5 rating. This is a well written story with good characters. There was just a little too much angst for the lack of a better word for me. I had a problem with Brooke having so many problems. The car, the house, the person she was to interview. I would encourage everyone to give this one a chance you may like it better than I did. Which is always a plus.
70 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2024
This book was a mixture of emotions, I think that’s one reason I liked it so much and how it showed people can heal and find love and happiness again. Brooke learned that everyone is t the same so you shouldn’t stop yourself from finding love and happiness just because you had one bad apple and don’t judge your relationships off of your parents.
Profile Image for Cherie Melbourne.
1,390 reviews15 followers
December 13, 2018
His Girl Next Door

This story made me laugh and me shedding a few tears. I couldn't help loving the characters and the story line. I normally drop 1 star for poor editing, but I liked this one too much.
Profile Image for Susan Scott.
100 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2019
Great Book!

This book sucked me in immediately... loved the story and the characters. I did get a little frustrated with Brooke towards the end.... but she redeemed herself. This is a top favorite of mine... you should read it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.