The Guy Next Door

by D.L. White

"Evonne busted into Taj's life like a wrecking ball!"

Quiet, reserved musician and Registered Nurse Taj Wright has his world turned upside down when he rents his guest house to Evonne, a spunky hair stylist who's a big fan of murder podcasts. The attraction between them at first sight is immediately electric. When a storm ravages Potter Lake, and they're forced to share close quarters, they can no longer resist each other.

But... now what? Evonne is on a mission to prove that she isn't the screwup that was sent home from Spelman College ten years ago. Taj is floundering, trying to tamp down a desire that can't be stifled. The last thing either of them wants is an emotional attachment to a temporary relationship.. but does it have to stay temporary?

On a rainy night in Georgia, two hearts meet. They're never the same again. Grab this fun and funny small town Black romance in ebook, paperback (COMING SOON TO AUDIO!).

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Small Town Romance, African American Romance

244 pages, ebook

Published September 8, 2019

About the author

DL White writes romance novels that celebrate Black love across multiple series, including the Ruby's Novels, Black Diamond Bay collection, and Potter Lake Small Town Romance. Her fifteen-plus titles offer rich, nuanced relationships that center Black characters. Through The Books by DL White Bookcast, she shares her current reads and writing updates. An Atlanta-based author and Executive Administrative Assistant, White finds inspiration from lakeshores to white sand beaches. When she's not writing, you'll find her chasing the perfect Sunday brunch or enjoying a great cup of coffee.

Browse, read, and buy her work at BooksByDLWhite.com.

Reviews

[Dahyana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun story to read. It was very lighthearted, and the banter throughout the story was especially perfect. Evonne and Tahj had great chemistry, and their attraction to one another was so pure and so cute. Evonne’s mother had something up her ass and needed to be told about herself. She was terrible. I definitely wanted more closure on her and Evonne’s relationship. I loved how easy her and Tahj flowed. They were unproblematic, and it was evident they were each other’s best friends. Overall, this was a super fun read. This author is new to me, and I enjoyed this book. So, I’m definitely gonna dive more into her catalog. The narrator is also new to me…well most narrators are since I’m new to audiobooks, but I enjoyed her performance. I definitely rec this book if you’re looking for an easy flowing, funny, sweet read.

[Annette Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really didn't want to like The Guy Next Door but, I did. Evonne and Taj were so likable, I couldn't help but love this book. They were so engaging and their attraction to one another was genuine. Both of them had smart mouths and their comeback for each other was hilarious. I don't know who I dislike most. Terrell or Mama Rhonda. No, I take that back. I couldn't stand Terrell's azz the most. Whew chile! I wanted to fight him like I was a man. As I said before, I really hope this series doesn't end with Evonne. I didn't think she was a popular enough character in book one to merit her own book. You could count the scenes she was in so, I'm real confused how she was next in line. It just made more sense for the next book to be about TC. So, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we'll eventually get her story. 🤞🏾🤞🏾

[Mrs. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story...

[Lauren (The Novel Lush) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me CACKLING y'all. These two smart-assed characters were a joy! My second book by this author, and now I'm off to devour more!

[Nikita · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Guy Next Door

The banter between Evonne and Taj was funny, witty and cute. They went with the vibes, with the flow which made for an entertaining relationship. Evonne’s mother clearly had personal issues but she would of had to keep them emerald green plates and gave me a verbal apology🙄. This was a fun read

[Rellim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this final (for now?) entry in the Potter Lake series. While this stands on its own, there are a few small references to folks/events from previous books. So if (like me) you prefer to read in chronological order, start with Leslie’s Curl & Dye.

I enjoyed getting to know Taj & Evonne as much as them learning all about the other. This has some elements of forced proximity & friends with benefit tropes that worked really well for me. Evonne is really struggling to prove herself to her family after a tremendous youthful indiscretion. Taj is working to find a balance with pursuing all his interests. While it seems like the timing isn’t good for either of them to be launching a relationship – it ends up being perfect.

The chemistry between these two jumps off the page … er, in my case, into my ears. They are sexy, flirty, irreverent, and a lot of fun. I especially loved Taj's family. Terrific listen. I’m definitely going to be checking out more of White’s backlist.

Narration:
Sharell Palmer’s narration was wonderful again. She’s perfect for White’s snarky and punchy characters as well as the few emotionally charged scenes.

[Mia Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my

I so enjoyed this book. I loved the couple. Their comeback talk with each other were hilarious. I would love an update on them in another character's book from Potter Lake.

[Mrs. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Guy next door loved the Girl next door!

The story was yet another example of an excellently crafted story. With Nurse Dude health struggles, and then to win his battle to become a standout in his field- was pure magic. Dude could sing too..Evonne stole my heart with her quirky ways and sweetness. They were the best match for what they each went through in life. I enjoyed seeing Evonne again, and the chance to meet Taj was definitely a treat. I hope we hear more from their families in future stories.

[Jacinta Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

D.L. White is just a great writer who knows her voice, which I appreciate. Finished this up in 1 night-- cute and enjoyable.

[Robert Justice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a romance reader but this year I read two, both by D.L. White.
If you like a tight tale about Black love with fun likable characters then pick up ANYTHING by D. L. White.
The list is long—Brunch at Ruby's/The Never List/The Guy Next Door—you can't miss!

[Sheronda H · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Taj and Evonne’s story. I thought they were good together. I was annoyed about the situation with Terrell. He was straight trash. Glad that Taj and Evonne got themselves together at the end.

[Twyla Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

DL White does not disappoint!! I was so sad when this book ended. I totally need more Nurse Dude and Ms. Gerard.

[wndrwtch_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25⭐️

[Michelle Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this was my favorite in the Potter Lake series. Probably because I see some me in Evonne with the junk taking but this was cute and steamy.

[Rasheedat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Black couples >>>

I really enjoyed this, will look for and read more from this author. I love how it didn't have any silly clichés. I wish it were longer though.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a refreshing love story. Relatable characters with great banter between them. Funny and delightful. I’m excited about making my way through the author’s bibliography.

[Karen the Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read all of the Potter Lake books and this is my favorite by far. The story line and characters are well developed, the writing is very strong, and the chemistry between the main characters is undeniable. I love that both Taj and Evonne have interesting personalities and when they come together their interactions are a thing of beauty. I have said this in other reviews of D.L. White books, she masterfully writes sexy/sassy/funny dialogue that really aids in beings able to imagine these are real people. I am looking forward to reading more of her work in the future, because her growth as a writer is huge between Brunch at Ruby’s and this book.

[Turtleberry Turtleberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Love Love

I really enjoyed this trip back to Potter Lake. Taj and Evonne were wonderful and hilarious. Such a dope story.

Longer review coming soon to my blog.

[Chencia Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good! I was laughing out loud, fussing at the characters, and rooting for Evonne and Taj. D.L. consistently hits it out of the park and I look forward to her next release.

[Jessica Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I dug it. Very smooth read. Haven't read any of the other books involving these characters but I don't get the feeling that I missed anything, which is awesome.

[Jd · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is for the audio book.
4.5 Stars
This was an entertaining novel. The banter between the MCs was funny. I am glad there was an epilogue and the way the epilogue ended. It is good that it was not totally predictable, as far as the conflict went.
What boggled my mind was how long they introduced the other as their "neighbor " considering everything that had occurred between them and how much of themselves that they divulged.
It would have been nice to have a male narrator for Taj's part, although Ms. Palmer did a great job with the voices. There were a couple of audio glitches, but it didn't detract from the story.
My interest is peaked to go back and read the first book.

[Catherine G Lewis · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this as part of a reading challenge. I didn't enjoy it much but powered through. There were some good moments but overall this just wasn't for me. Most of the dialog was not very believable and the plot didn't make much sense. Spoiler: Do you really think we're going to believe that these 2 people who barely know each other and just slept together once will then go on a road trip the next day to visit with his family? And there was hardly any mention of maybe we're going too fast too soon.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definitely a humorous girl meets guy under interesting circumstances story. I liked both Taj and Evonne. I liked Evonne's sister, and even her nosey co-workers. The only people I didn't like were the guy that screwed over Evonne and Evonne's mother.

I felt a bit salty about Taj's reaction after Evonne tried to tell him, but I guess he managed to redeem himself. A short, sweet romance with a very nice HEA.

[Gemini · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s Giving Soulmates

It was so nice to visit Potter Lake again. I love this town and its residents. Taj and Evonne’s instant chemistry was fun. Their witty banter made their connection so entertaining. Taj seemed like such a decent upstanding man. Until the dreaded third act breakup popped up. His stank attitude made me so mad. I was glad that Evonne checked him. She was so spunky and outspoken. I really liked her character. I was glad that they were able to recover. They seemed like they were destined to be together.

[Sandy T · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I thought the dialogue was witty, a bit sassy and real. Both characters were likeable, hard working and positive. I haven't read any other books in the series and didn't feel it was necessary to follow this plot.

I thought the narrator was very good, lots of emotions and good pacing.

I received a free promotional audible code and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Rae Shawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evonne is soo me

Evonne is my spirit animal. Every time I read something she was thinking or something she said, all I could think was “yup, that’s me.” Okay, maybe not every time, but a good majority.

Her relationship with Taj was adorable to read and ended lovely. Definitely will read this again and again.

[Bookish Lotus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it! Very sweet, cute, low angst story. I adored Evonne, she was so funny and smart and strong in who she is. Taj was a wonderful MMC! Loved to see the representation of a black male nurse and the reason he chose the career was also very sweet. I adored the relationship between our main characters. I felt like everything progressed naturally and wasn’t forced.

[Katie ratherbereadinggg · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars This is my first book by DL White and I really enjoyed it! I liked the writing, the story, and the characters. I just wanted a bit more chemistry or spark between the MCs…it was just missing a little something that would make it a 5 star book for me. Excited to read more from this author!

[Dawn Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this story almost as much as the first book. Evonne’s blog obsession was annoying to me. I did enjoy her banter with Taj. Overall, I am enjoying the author’s writing and will explore more of her work.

[Therese · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my jam. It wasn’t horrible, but I didn’t like the way they were speaking, it was hard to get right away if it was a thought or something said out loud. I’m happy it was a black couple cause they need to be represented in books more, but this wasn’t for me.