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Firefighters of Station 1 #2
Finding Mr. Right Next Door
For Lexi Dean, burning down her kitchen was disaster enough. Agreeing to move in next door with her totally off-limits best friend, Matt Freeman, until her house is livable again? Utter madness. They’ve always been close, but this is ridiculous. If she’s not bumping into him at the refrigerator, he’s at the front door giving her date the third degree. And slipping between his borrowed sheets? That’s about as distracting as listening to his shower run, because suddenly all she can think about is rivulets of water cascading down is spectacular body—the one he seems to be going out of his way to make sure she notices. Not that it matters. He can flaunt his firefighter abs around her all he wants. They already share everything—their jobs, their friends, their backyard, even their dog—and that means only one Lexi is not going to risk losing any of it by dipping a single toe in the temptation that is Matt Freeman. Lexi may not know how to handle a fire extinguisher, but this is one fire that just might burn them both if they’re not careful...
147 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 11, 2020
124 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Ballance
33 books692 followersSarah and her husband of what he calls “many long, long years” live on the mid-Atlantic coast with their six young children, all of whom are perfectly adorable when they’re asleep. She never dreamed of becoming an author, but as a homeschooling mom, she often jokes she writes fiction because if she wants anyone to listen to her, she has to make them up. (As it turns out, her characters aren’t much better than the kids). When not buried under piles of laundry, she may be found adrift in the Atlantic (preferably on a boat) or seeking that ever-elusive perfect writing spot where not even the kids can find her.
She loves creating unforgettable stories while putting her characters through an unkind amount of torture—a hobby that has nothing to do with living with six children. (Really.) Though she adores nail-biting mystery and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, Sarah writes in many genres including contemporary and ghostly paranormal romance. Her ever-growing roster of releases may be found on her website.
She loves creating unforgettable stories while putting her characters through an unkind amount of torture—a hobby that has nothing to do with living with six children. (Really.) Though she adores nail-biting mystery and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, Sarah writes in many genres including contemporary and ghostly paranormal romance. Her ever-growing roster of releases may be found on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
April 19, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley for kindly providing an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
I am super upset I didn't like this book! The premise and the description sounded just up my alley, but unfortunate the execution was not there. The main characters, Lexi and Matt, were unlikeable, especially Matt I could not even handle his POV. The first to lovers and forced proximity tropes are both set-ups I enjoy. Unfortunately, the characters don't hold up the story. The development of their relationship seemed unbelievable to me and to be perfectly honest if anyone treated me the way Lexi's friends treated her I would never speak to these people again.
The one positive thing I can say is that I saw a ton of potential from the author. If it had been a different set of characters or a different plot I would have thoroughly enjoyed it.
I am super upset I didn't like this book! The premise and the description sounded just up my alley, but unfortunate the execution was not there. The main characters, Lexi and Matt, were unlikeable, especially Matt I could not even handle his POV. The first to lovers and forced proximity tropes are both set-ups I enjoy. Unfortunately, the characters don't hold up the story. The development of their relationship seemed unbelievable to me and to be perfectly honest if anyone treated me the way Lexi's friends treated her I would never speak to these people again.
The one positive thing I can say is that I saw a ton of potential from the author. If it had been a different set of characters or a different plot I would have thoroughly enjoyed it.
August 6, 2021
Nothing like a steamy hot fireman romance!!🔥🔥
June 13, 2020
I have seen this author’s books around on Goodreads and Amazon, but this is the first one I have read. Now I discovered that she has six kids! Six!! My gosh I have two kids and can’t find the time lately to even do a read and review, let alone write a million books! Hats off to her!! Anyway, I was in the mood for a romance and this one was a really cute friends-to-lovers tale!
Lexi and Matt have been best friends since they were kids, but never thought of themselves in THAT way. Well, they never admitted it to themselves anyway. When Lexi burns down her kitchen and stays with Matt, some feelings come to the surface that could ruin everything…
It was really cute! Some really funny moments and a lot of witty banter between the characters.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Lexie and Matt’s grandmother. I hope I am like her when I get older! Hilarious!
Sure, it was corny and a tad unbelievable, but perfect if you just want to get lost in a cute love story with a couple of steamy scenes!
Would I recommend it?
Yes if you are a rom-com, chick-lit fan you should enjoy this one!
Thanks to the publisher via NetGalley for a copy of Mr. Right Next Door to read and review!
For more reviews check out my:
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Lexi and Matt have been best friends since they were kids, but never thought of themselves in THAT way. Well, they never admitted it to themselves anyway. When Lexi burns down her kitchen and stays with Matt, some feelings come to the surface that could ruin everything…
It was really cute! Some really funny moments and a lot of witty banter between the characters.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Lexie and Matt’s grandmother. I hope I am like her when I get older! Hilarious!
Sure, it was corny and a tad unbelievable, but perfect if you just want to get lost in a cute love story with a couple of steamy scenes!
Would I recommend it?
Yes if you are a rom-com, chick-lit fan you should enjoy this one!
Thanks to the publisher via NetGalley for a copy of Mr. Right Next Door to read and review!
For more reviews check out my:
Blog
May 6, 2020
3.5 Stars
Cute but I really wanted more. It's a short read that you can knock out quickly, it made me laugh and smile and it's a fun story to pull you out of the troubles of every day life.
!!!I was given this in exchange for an honest review!!!
Cute but I really wanted more. It's a short read that you can knock out quickly, it made me laugh and smile and it's a fun story to pull you out of the troubles of every day life.
!!!I was given this in exchange for an honest review!!!
April 18, 2020
After a couple of books I unfortunately could not get into, I was happy to start and finish this book in just one day! Hence the 5 stars :-) Plus the fact I love friends-to-lovers books, but only when done right. And this one I really enjoyed.
Lexi and Matt have been friends since they were 5 years old and lived next door to each other. And they still live next door and also work for the Fire Department, Matt as a firefighter. And they share a dog! At the start of the book Lexi unfortunately starts a fire in her kitchen and Matt offers her a place to stay during the renovation. They are best friends, so why not?! Well, Lexi has created a profile on a dating app and Matt realizes he does not like it.. at all.
I know it looks like the standard friends-to-lovers. But in this case there is a warmth to the story I really liked. Lexi and Matt are comfortable with each other and when they realize they are feeling sparks they are both afraid for their lifelong friendship. I also liked the secondary characters including Matt's grandmother Elsie.
Loved it and I can recommend. Look forward to the next, hopefully about Diego but I am not picky. Would also love some future info on Lexi and Matt.
*** I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntary review. ***
Lexi and Matt have been friends since they were 5 years old and lived next door to each other. And they still live next door and also work for the Fire Department, Matt as a firefighter. And they share a dog! At the start of the book Lexi unfortunately starts a fire in her kitchen and Matt offers her a place to stay during the renovation. They are best friends, so why not?! Well, Lexi has created a profile on a dating app and Matt realizes he does not like it.. at all.
I know it looks like the standard friends-to-lovers. But in this case there is a warmth to the story I really liked. Lexi and Matt are comfortable with each other and when they realize they are feeling sparks they are both afraid for their lifelong friendship. I also liked the secondary characters including Matt's grandmother Elsie.
Loved it and I can recommend. Look forward to the next, hopefully about Diego but I am not picky. Would also love some future info on Lexi and Matt.
*** I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley. This is my honest and voluntary review. ***
May 7, 2020
I love Sarah Ballance and when I have the opportunity, I snap her books up! I love the best friends living to close trope and this book has that. After growing up together from age 5, the two shared most everything. Now as adults, neighbors and co-workers, they share just about everything else, including a dog. She does his laundry and cleans, in return he cooks. Her reputation in the kitchen isn't exactly stellar. After an attempt at cooking sets her kitchen on fire, the sensible thing is for her to live with him during the kitchen reno.
So we begin the story of Matt and Lexi. Living in close quarters probably wasn't the brightest idea Matt has ever had, it just pushed his feelings for Lexi to the forefront and ditto for Lexi. Throughout the story the two fought the feelings. Add in Matt's firebrand Grandma Elsie, who was a total hoot and I loved her and the relationship she had with Lexi. But I ran into several problems with the two main characters along with their co-workers. I had a tough time warming up to Matt and Lexi. Lexi not as much as Matt, but seriously his remarks toward Lexi and at times instigating their mutual friends to what seemed at times to humiliate Lexi over her lack of kitchen skills was a little much and didn't make me like them-at all. I mean at all. Lexi decides to try dating, Matt grills the guy. Matt the serial dater. He was just hard to like, which kind of messed up the whole relationship for me. Had Matt been a little different it would have made me love the book so much more. But that's just me and I am certain there are many who will love the book all the same. Grandma Elsie wins the prize in this one. Great writing, great flow.
3.5 stars from this girl
So we begin the story of Matt and Lexi. Living in close quarters probably wasn't the brightest idea Matt has ever had, it just pushed his feelings for Lexi to the forefront and ditto for Lexi. Throughout the story the two fought the feelings. Add in Matt's firebrand Grandma Elsie, who was a total hoot and I loved her and the relationship she had with Lexi. But I ran into several problems with the two main characters along with their co-workers. I had a tough time warming up to Matt and Lexi. Lexi not as much as Matt, but seriously his remarks toward Lexi and at times instigating their mutual friends to what seemed at times to humiliate Lexi over her lack of kitchen skills was a little much and didn't make me like them-at all. I mean at all. Lexi decides to try dating, Matt grills the guy. Matt the serial dater. He was just hard to like, which kind of messed up the whole relationship for me. Had Matt been a little different it would have made me love the book so much more. But that's just me and I am certain there are many who will love the book all the same. Grandma Elsie wins the prize in this one. Great writing, great flow.
3.5 stars from this girl
April 19, 2020
Finding Mr Right Next Door by Sarah Ballance a five-star read that will warm your heart. I adore Lexi Dean, she reminded me so much of myself in some ways, she just warmed me and the fear that she has, I can totally get that, loosing Elsie alone would be enough to scare me away. This was sweet and funny, and had the best heart, it made me think twice and hold my breath several times. Overall, it’s just a nice sweet read with some steam to keep you hooked. I will be looking for more form this author as I really enjoyed the writing.
May 12, 2020
A friends-to-lovers story that isn’t very friendly
Publish date: May 11, 2020
Sarah Ballance’s Finding Mr. Right Next Door involves Lexi and Matt who have been friends for years. They both work at the firehouse and there’s an ongoing “joke” from Matt about Lexi not being able to cook. Unfortunately, Matt’s jokes come across as really mean-spirited and he pretty much brings her to tears several times. Not a great friend in my opinion. Because of this I had a hard time buying into the romance between Lexi and Matt. He just didn’t redeem himself in my eyes for his bad behaviour. It was well written and I loved Grandma Elsie. I look forward to more from Sarah Ballance but I just couldn’t stomach the put downs from Matt to Lexi. I love friends-to-lovers and I'm so sad that I couldn't love this book more.
WRITING STYLE: 4/5
PLOT: 2/5
WORLD-BUILDING: 4/5
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 2/5
ROMANCE: 2/5
HEAT: 3/5
Description:
For Lexi Dean, burning down her kitchen was disaster enough. Agreeing to move in next door with her totally off-limits best friend, Matt Freeman, until her house is livable again?
Utter madness.
They’ve always been close, but this is ridiculous. If she’s not bumping into him at the refrigerator, he’s at the front door giving her date the third degree. And slipping between his borrowed sheets? That’s about as distracting as listening to his shower run, because suddenly all she can think about is rivulets of water cascading down his spectacular body—the one he seems to be going out of his way to make sure she notices.
Not that it matters. He can flaunt his firefighter abs around her all he wants. They already share everything—their jobs, their friends, their backyard, even their dog—and that means only one thing: Lexi is not going to risk losing any of it by dipping a single toe in the temptation that is Matt Freeman.
Lexi may not know how to handle a fire extinguisher, but this is one fire that just might burn them both if they’re not careful...
Many thanks to NetGalley, Entangled and Sarah Ballance for an ARC in exchange for an honest book review of “Finding Mr. Right Next Door”. My thoughts and opinions are 100% my own and independent of receiving an advance copy.
Publish date: May 11, 2020
Sarah Ballance’s Finding Mr. Right Next Door involves Lexi and Matt who have been friends for years. They both work at the firehouse and there’s an ongoing “joke” from Matt about Lexi not being able to cook. Unfortunately, Matt’s jokes come across as really mean-spirited and he pretty much brings her to tears several times. Not a great friend in my opinion. Because of this I had a hard time buying into the romance between Lexi and Matt. He just didn’t redeem himself in my eyes for his bad behaviour. It was well written and I loved Grandma Elsie. I look forward to more from Sarah Ballance but I just couldn’t stomach the put downs from Matt to Lexi. I love friends-to-lovers and I'm so sad that I couldn't love this book more.
WRITING STYLE: 4/5
PLOT: 2/5
WORLD-BUILDING: 4/5
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 2/5
ROMANCE: 2/5
HEAT: 3/5
Description:
For Lexi Dean, burning down her kitchen was disaster enough. Agreeing to move in next door with her totally off-limits best friend, Matt Freeman, until her house is livable again?
Utter madness.
They’ve always been close, but this is ridiculous. If she’s not bumping into him at the refrigerator, he’s at the front door giving her date the third degree. And slipping between his borrowed sheets? That’s about as distracting as listening to his shower run, because suddenly all she can think about is rivulets of water cascading down his spectacular body—the one he seems to be going out of his way to make sure she notices.
Not that it matters. He can flaunt his firefighter abs around her all he wants. They already share everything—their jobs, their friends, their backyard, even their dog—and that means only one thing: Lexi is not going to risk losing any of it by dipping a single toe in the temptation that is Matt Freeman.
Lexi may not know how to handle a fire extinguisher, but this is one fire that just might burn them both if they’re not careful...
Many thanks to NetGalley, Entangled and Sarah Ballance for an ARC in exchange for an honest book review of “Finding Mr. Right Next Door”. My thoughts and opinions are 100% my own and independent of receiving an advance copy.
April 22, 2020
Lexi and Matt have been LexiandMatt since childhood. And while he sows more than his fair share of wild oats - Lexi has always been the quiet romantic of the two. But when she accidentally burns down her kitchen - she stays with Matt... Maybe all this togetherness isn’t such a great plan after all...
Well... this was definitely a romcom. Friends to lovers with a dash of forced proximity - complete with awkward, almost nudity and intimidation and irritation of each other’s dates. Overall, it was light and breezy. I just didn’t really buy their romance. They could have been together for a long time and the only reason they weren’t is because they were chicken. Matt sounds kind of like a jerk and Lexi seems a little too... boring. The story wasn’t poorly written but it was just not really my style.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Well... this was definitely a romcom. Friends to lovers with a dash of forced proximity - complete with awkward, almost nudity and intimidation and irritation of each other’s dates. Overall, it was light and breezy. I just didn’t really buy their romance. They could have been together for a long time and the only reason they weren’t is because they were chicken. Matt sounds kind of like a jerk and Lexi seems a little too... boring. The story wasn’t poorly written but it was just not really my style.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 20, 2020
3.5⭐️
Lexi and Matt have been best friends since childhood. As adults they live next door to each other, work in similar career fields and even share a dog! When a kitchen fire causes Lexi to need to move in with Matt, sparks begin to fly. But would a romantic relationship ruin their friendship??
I’m not too proud to say that this cover totally got me with the sexy fireman situation. And I adore a friends- lovers romance. At about halfway through this book really delivered on the steam and romance between Lexi and Matt - and I was definitely here for the steamy parts! 😍 I loved Grandma Elsie- what a hilarious character! I could read a whole book about this lady.
I struggled to get in a groove reading this book, especially the first half. Maybe it was the third person POV? I’m all for banter and sarcasm, but honestly it just felt a little mean with the constant making fun of Lexi about cooking and the kitchen fire.
Overall it was a fun, quick, steamy read!
Lexi and Matt have been best friends since childhood. As adults they live next door to each other, work in similar career fields and even share a dog! When a kitchen fire causes Lexi to need to move in with Matt, sparks begin to fly. But would a romantic relationship ruin their friendship??
I’m not too proud to say that this cover totally got me with the sexy fireman situation. And I adore a friends- lovers romance. At about halfway through this book really delivered on the steam and romance between Lexi and Matt - and I was definitely here for the steamy parts! 😍 I loved Grandma Elsie- what a hilarious character! I could read a whole book about this lady.
I struggled to get in a groove reading this book, especially the first half. Maybe it was the third person POV? I’m all for banter and sarcasm, but honestly it just felt a little mean with the constant making fun of Lexi about cooking and the kitchen fire.
Overall it was a fun, quick, steamy read!
May 3, 2020
You know how the classic writing advice is "show, not tell"? That advice was not followed here. The author alternates POV and explains the characters' fairly simple conflict over and over and over... Also, the dialogue between them often turns kind of mean and junior-high-esque, even though they are supposedly lifelong best friends. And speaking of junior high, how likely is it that nothing ever happened between them when they were hormonal teenagers?
Anyway, the supporting characters were the highlight here, especially the fiesty grandma. If you like NSFW nursing homes and hot firefighters, this book might be up your alley.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for a digital ARC to review.
Anyway, the supporting characters were the highlight here, especially the fiesty grandma. If you like NSFW nursing homes and hot firefighters, this book might be up your alley.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for a digital ARC to review.
May 15, 2020
Finding Mr. Right Next Door is an adult contemporary romance by Sarah Ballance. This book was the perfect feel good read. It is a standalone that is part of entangled's Lovestruck imprint line. I love that Entangled has so many different romance imprints, because there is sure to be something for every reader and every mood. The lovestruck imprint is one of their romantic comedy lines, which is right up my alley. According to the engtangled website, their Lovestruck books typically have a "memorable, oftentimes hilarious “meet-cutes” between strangers, a strong romantic connection, sizzling sexual tension, and satisfying endings that leave readers smitten." This is so spot on for Finding Mr. right Next Door, but there was also a really heartfelt connection between our two main characters in this case, which I really loved.
In Finding Mr. Right Next Door we meet Lexi and Matt, who are lifelong best friends. Lexi's parents were neighbors with Matt's Grandmother, who raised Matt. Because of this, they all grew up really close. I loved how close Lexi was with Matt's grandma. It warmed my heart, plus she is a hilarious young at heart grandma. Lexi is a notoriously bad cook, so when she sets fire to her kitchen, she moves in with her firefighter next door neighbor/best friend Matt. What happens next is straight out of a romantic comedy movie. I can see this as a netflix original right now actually. If you are a fan of suppressed feelings, and moments of adorable jealousy, then this is the book for you. It is a super quick read, coming in at about 150 pages, so you can read this book in just a couple short hours. Great for an afternoon by the pool, or a rainy night.
In the summer, I always find myself reaching for shorter standalone romances and romantic comedies to read as a quick breather to the longer more involved fantasy series that I also love. And this is the perfect book for a quick and fun romantic romp between two friends that you will be rooting for. The town setup that Sarah Ballance created screams for more books. With the firefighters and the police as fun rivals, there are plenty of romance leads that I would love to see a story on. I am certainly keeping my fingers crossed for more.
Note/Update: I did find out that my wish has been granted. This is the first book in the Firefighters of Station 1 series. Yay! I can't wait for more!
In Finding Mr. Right Next Door we meet Lexi and Matt, who are lifelong best friends. Lexi's parents were neighbors with Matt's Grandmother, who raised Matt. Because of this, they all grew up really close. I loved how close Lexi was with Matt's grandma. It warmed my heart, plus she is a hilarious young at heart grandma. Lexi is a notoriously bad cook, so when she sets fire to her kitchen, she moves in with her firefighter next door neighbor/best friend Matt. What happens next is straight out of a romantic comedy movie. I can see this as a netflix original right now actually. If you are a fan of suppressed feelings, and moments of adorable jealousy, then this is the book for you. It is a super quick read, coming in at about 150 pages, so you can read this book in just a couple short hours. Great for an afternoon by the pool, or a rainy night.
In the summer, I always find myself reaching for shorter standalone romances and romantic comedies to read as a quick breather to the longer more involved fantasy series that I also love. And this is the perfect book for a quick and fun romantic romp between two friends that you will be rooting for. The town setup that Sarah Ballance created screams for more books. With the firefighters and the police as fun rivals, there are plenty of romance leads that I would love to see a story on. I am certainly keeping my fingers crossed for more.
Note/Update: I did find out that my wish has been granted. This is the first book in the Firefighters of Station 1 series. Yay! I can't wait for more!
May 8, 2020
Finding Mr. Right Next Door is the second book in the Firefighters of Station 1 series by Sarah Ballance and currently scheduled for release on May 11 2020. You can read each book as a stand alone, but there a few spoilers if you read out of order.
For Lexi Dean, burning down her kitchen was disaster enough. Agreeing to move in next door with her totally off-limits best friend, Matt Freeman, until her house is livable again? They’ve always been close, but this is ridiculous. If she’s not bumping into him at the refrigerator, he’s at the front door giving her date the third degree. And slipping between his borrowed sheets? That’s about as distracting as listening to his shower run, because suddenly all she can think about is rivulets of water cascading down is spectacular body—the one he seems to be going out of his way to make sure she notices. Not that it matters. He can flaunt his firefighter abs around her all he wants. They already share everything—their jobs, their friends, their backyard, even their dog—and that means only one thing: Lexi is not going to risk losing any of it by dipping a single toe in the temptation that is Matt Freeman. Lexi may not know how to handle a fire extinguisher, but this is one fire that just might burn them both if they’re not careful.
Finding Mr. Right Next Door is a contemporary romance that I have mixed feelings about. I felt bad for Lexi on occasion, her friends seem to tease her constantly and self esteem and having an uncomfortable conversation seem beyond her. Matt is painted as almost too perfect, aside from his worries about losing Lexi's friendship. There are some funny moments, some heat, and lots of me shaking my head. I liked the secondary characters and thought some of the book was very well written. However, despite a few attempts at talking it out that were shot down and avoided, I was so annoyed with the fact that two people that had supposedly been best friends forever could not just sit down and talk. I get the fear of wrecking a friendship with a romantic relationship, but how can you even have a friendship if you are not willing to talk to each other?
Finding Mr. Right Next Door is a friends to more romance that will appeal to fans of the author and series.
For Lexi Dean, burning down her kitchen was disaster enough. Agreeing to move in next door with her totally off-limits best friend, Matt Freeman, until her house is livable again? They’ve always been close, but this is ridiculous. If she’s not bumping into him at the refrigerator, he’s at the front door giving her date the third degree. And slipping between his borrowed sheets? That’s about as distracting as listening to his shower run, because suddenly all she can think about is rivulets of water cascading down is spectacular body—the one he seems to be going out of his way to make sure she notices. Not that it matters. He can flaunt his firefighter abs around her all he wants. They already share everything—their jobs, their friends, their backyard, even their dog—and that means only one thing: Lexi is not going to risk losing any of it by dipping a single toe in the temptation that is Matt Freeman. Lexi may not know how to handle a fire extinguisher, but this is one fire that just might burn them both if they’re not careful.
Finding Mr. Right Next Door is a contemporary romance that I have mixed feelings about. I felt bad for Lexi on occasion, her friends seem to tease her constantly and self esteem and having an uncomfortable conversation seem beyond her. Matt is painted as almost too perfect, aside from his worries about losing Lexi's friendship. There are some funny moments, some heat, and lots of me shaking my head. I liked the secondary characters and thought some of the book was very well written. However, despite a few attempts at talking it out that were shot down and avoided, I was so annoyed with the fact that two people that had supposedly been best friends forever could not just sit down and talk. I get the fear of wrecking a friendship with a romantic relationship, but how can you even have a friendship if you are not willing to talk to each other?
Finding Mr. Right Next Door is a friends to more romance that will appeal to fans of the author and series.
May 12, 2020
Lexi is clearly not a baker... or a cook. It's well known that she should not be allowed in the kitchen. Which is kind of ironic since she works at a firehouse and her best friend/neighbor is a firefighter. But I suppose we all have our strong points, and clearly being a domestic goddess is not one of hers. So, needless to say, it comes to no surprise when Lexi manages to set her kitchen on fire when trying to bake a simple tart. Which is how she ends up crashing at her best friend's place, who she may or may not have a thing for.
I really liked that this book focused on a best friends to lovers romance. Both Lexi and Matt have a thing for the other, but since they've been friends since the moment they could walk and talk , they try to keep their feelings at bay. However, with being in such close quarters, they find themselves having a hard time resisting temptation. I loved that these two had such a long history together. The story that Matt's grandma tells about the time they were 5 and Lexi wanted a flower on a tree, so Matt tried really hard to get that flower for her was really cute. However, then it's revealed that even as he got older, he kept that photo on his nightstand of the one time he was unable to get her what she wanted... my heart melted.
However, with that being said, I just didn't buy their romance. I feel like we were being told it was a thing, without actually experiencing it. It was cute and light hearted, but it didn't heat up the sheets, if you know what I mean. I suppose I wish the author took a bit more time to fully develop the characters and their relationship. The pieces were all there, but I just wasn't fully immersed in their story. I think I just needed a bit more from them.
Finding Mr. Right Next Door was a cute quick romance between friends. There's not a whole lot that takes place. No crazy drama. No huge climatic parts. Just two best friends stumbling their way through new territory.
I really liked that this book focused on a best friends to lovers romance. Both Lexi and Matt have a thing for the other, but since they've been friends since the moment they could walk and talk , they try to keep their feelings at bay. However, with being in such close quarters, they find themselves having a hard time resisting temptation. I loved that these two had such a long history together. The story that Matt's grandma tells about the time they were 5 and Lexi wanted a flower on a tree, so Matt tried really hard to get that flower for her was really cute. However, then it's revealed that even as he got older, he kept that photo on his nightstand of the one time he was unable to get her what she wanted... my heart melted.
However, with that being said, I just didn't buy their romance. I feel like we were being told it was a thing, without actually experiencing it. It was cute and light hearted, but it didn't heat up the sheets, if you know what I mean. I suppose I wish the author took a bit more time to fully develop the characters and their relationship. The pieces were all there, but I just wasn't fully immersed in their story. I think I just needed a bit more from them.
Finding Mr. Right Next Door was a cute quick romance between friends. There's not a whole lot that takes place. No crazy drama. No huge climatic parts. Just two best friends stumbling their way through new territory.
May 14, 2020
Okay, so maybe the previous read books have an impact on my reviewing but contrary to many other negative reviews on Goodreads, I actually liked the book. Maybe it’s because the previous books I’ve read didn’t suck me in the story enough and that one did.
It’s a friends to lovers story which is not at all my favourite trope but this one is done well. It makes me actually think that maybe I should read more books with this trope…
Lexi is a clumsy woman who after one unfortunate incident finds herself in the next-door apartment with his friend, Matt. Even though they are always together they never felt more than friendship for each other…
They both work at the fire station, they share a dog and their life is entwined since childhood.
Matt starts to see her as more than a friend once he thinks he has a chance to lose her…
One thing that maybe bothered me a little was that (at least that’s how I saw it) Matt was portrayed as someone who is constantly on dates and sleeping with women a lot while Lexi is not like that at all. Only when she suddenly decides to start an online dating, Matt starts to see her in a whole other way.
I probably should mention that once they do get together, their chemistry is hot and sizzling. The side characters bring another charm to the story, especially Matt’s grandma. She’s hilarious!
4.5 stars.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full post: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.c...
It’s a friends to lovers story which is not at all my favourite trope but this one is done well. It makes me actually think that maybe I should read more books with this trope…
Lexi is a clumsy woman who after one unfortunate incident finds herself in the next-door apartment with his friend, Matt. Even though they are always together they never felt more than friendship for each other…
They both work at the fire station, they share a dog and their life is entwined since childhood.
Matt starts to see her as more than a friend once he thinks he has a chance to lose her…
One thing that maybe bothered me a little was that (at least that’s how I saw it) Matt was portrayed as someone who is constantly on dates and sleeping with women a lot while Lexi is not like that at all. Only when she suddenly decides to start an online dating, Matt starts to see her in a whole other way.
I probably should mention that once they do get together, their chemistry is hot and sizzling. The side characters bring another charm to the story, especially Matt’s grandma. She’s hilarious!
4.5 stars.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full post: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.c...
May 7, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review!
I have been craving steamy romance and I finally got it! 😍😍
things I liked:
x the banter, always!
x the steamy sexy scenes were v steamy
x Elsie was the quirkiest and most eccentric fictional grandma I have encountered; loved all of her scenes
x the character developments
x how Lexi and Matt's friendship was everything to them
things I didn't like:
x I had the feeling their jobs were just there for them having any kind of profession that fit with the initial plot of Lexi burning down the kitchen
x disappointed that there were not more Waffles scenes
x Elsie sometimes acted outrageous for the sake of being outrageous
x
overall:
really enjoyed this fun and yet sometimes serious read that also had quite a few nice and steamy scenes to swoon over. will definitely look into other books by Sarah Ballance!
I have been craving steamy romance and I finally got it! 😍😍
things I liked:
x the banter, always!
x the steamy sexy scenes were v steamy
x Elsie was the quirkiest and most eccentric fictional grandma I have encountered; loved all of her scenes
x the character developments
x how Lexi and Matt's friendship was everything to them
things I didn't like:
x I had the feeling their jobs were just there for them having any kind of profession that fit with the initial plot of Lexi burning down the kitchen
x disappointed that there were not more Waffles scenes
x Elsie sometimes acted outrageous for the sake of being outrageous
x
overall:
really enjoyed this fun and yet sometimes serious read that also had quite a few nice and steamy scenes to swoon over. will definitely look into other books by Sarah Ballance!
May 26, 2020
This was a cute between friends to lovers.. Lexi and Matt have been best friends forever and everyone around them sees them as having a relationship, more than just friends. Matt is not the type to have a relationship he is happy with his manho status until he sees that his Lexi is going on a date and a cop to boot. He is a firefighter so what can Lexi be doing with him, while supposedly just trying to make sure she is safe ends up crashing her date and as these two bicker they realize that there is much more than they admit too. As they give in to there chemistry Matt gets a little worried that he is just not capable of a lasting relationship and messes it up, but luckily he has friends that can wake him up..Cute story.
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinion
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinion
May 22, 2022
This is a sweet story about two best friends since childhood nowadays living next door and sharing a dog, a yard and a job.
Matt Freeman is known as a playboy, and Lexi Dean as a disaster in the kitchen. When she ends up burning it down Matt offers her his place until the repairs are done.
What neither expected or wanted were the sparks that had been laying dormant until the moment that proximity ignites them. Confusing them and also neither wanting to rock the boat and cause damage to their friendship they try to avoid close contact.
But what happens when temptation is too great?
This was a sweet and easy reading story with fun characters and perfect for an afternoon of leisure.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Entangled. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Matt Freeman is known as a playboy, and Lexi Dean as a disaster in the kitchen. When she ends up burning it down Matt offers her his place until the repairs are done.
What neither expected or wanted were the sparks that had been laying dormant until the moment that proximity ignites them. Confusing them and also neither wanting to rock the boat and cause damage to their friendship they try to avoid close contact.
But what happens when temptation is too great?
This was a sweet and easy reading story with fun characters and perfect for an afternoon of leisure.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Entangled. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
April 17, 2020
I was completely taken by this book. Could not put it down. I felt as if I was completely connected to the characters and could feel every emotion and spark between them.
Matt and Lexi are two best friends that are blind to the real, lifelong companionship that is truly between them; the kind that others would kill for. Everyone around them can see it but them, until one fateful event causes them to see what could be right in front of them. However, is it worth risking everything they already have? I felt as if I was reading my own story but there was finally an ending that I had daydreamed about many of times and I know I am not the only one who has dreamed up a perfect ending situation like this! Sarah Ballance can write!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book thanks to Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Matt and Lexi are two best friends that are blind to the real, lifelong companionship that is truly between them; the kind that others would kill for. Everyone around them can see it but them, until one fateful event causes them to see what could be right in front of them. However, is it worth risking everything they already have? I felt as if I was reading my own story but there was finally an ending that I had daydreamed about many of times and I know I am not the only one who has dreamed up a perfect ending situation like this! Sarah Ballance can write!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book thanks to Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 24, 2020
Original review: A Novel Glimpse
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
It's been a while since I've read a book by Sarah Ballance. I don't know why her books fell off my radar, but I'm happy I came across Finding Mr. Right Next Door. This romance was exactly the type I was looking for: fun, light, fast-paced, and sweet. I loved the whole best friends to lovers trope that was going on here. Matt and Lexi were just too cute for words.
There are only two things I can find fault with. One, this book was written in third person and it would have been even better in first. Two, I would have loved for it to be longer. It was really more a novella than a full length novel. Other than, it was darn near perfect.
I guess this was a second in a series of connected romances, but I didn't even notice that. I'm excited to go back and read the first book if it's as adorable as this one.
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
It's been a while since I've read a book by Sarah Ballance. I don't know why her books fell off my radar, but I'm happy I came across Finding Mr. Right Next Door. This romance was exactly the type I was looking for: fun, light, fast-paced, and sweet. I loved the whole best friends to lovers trope that was going on here. Matt and Lexi were just too cute for words.
There are only two things I can find fault with. One, this book was written in third person and it would have been even better in first. Two, I would have loved for it to be longer. It was really more a novella than a full length novel. Other than, it was darn near perfect.
I guess this was a second in a series of connected romances, but I didn't even notice that. I'm excited to go back and read the first book if it's as adorable as this one.
May 19, 2020
A fun easy read that leaves you smiling and eager to read more. This is part of a series but I did not feel I missed any of the story by not reading the previous book. I do plan to find it and read it now though and can't wait to read more from this author and in this series. I really enjoyable read with a happily ever after and a truly hilarious grandma who I hope shows up again.
April 7, 2024
Not my cup of tea. It tried to be funny, but just wasn't to me. Painfully slow for them to pull their heads out and be together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2020
Full review appeared at Reader's Edyn on 05/17/20
Lexie isn’t known for her cooking prowess. A disaster in the kitchen she might be, but she is determined to bake a successful version of Matt’s grandmother’s tart. Big mistake. All she is left with is a flaming kitchen, a ruined family heirloom tart pan, and all of her co-workers on her front porch dousing the inferno. The most sensible plan is to move next door with her best friend, Matt, during the renovations. After a bit of hesitation, she concedes. But the forced proximity to her best friend since childhood stirs up all kinds of emotions and feelings they have never allowed themselves to explore for fear of ruining their perfect friendship. But chemistry and attraction under the same roof are difficult to extinguish and before too long, Lexi and Matt are creating a blaze of their own. But where do you go once the line has been crossed?
Matt has wanted Lexi since forever, but once they settled into their comfortable friendship, the risk involved if they didn’t work out became too much to gamble against. So when Lexi needs a place to crash, offering her a place to stay is automatic. What he didn’t count on was the fierce protectiveness that would consume him. And the fact that she’s just started dating – and a cop (his biggest rival as a firefighter) – isn’t helping one bit. So when they finally give in to their overwhelming passion, neither knows how to proceed, terrified that everything will change. And boy does it. Now something big is simmering and the outcome will determine if their relationship is ruined or has simply moved up the ladder to the next rung.
You guys! If you want a super fun, super cute, ridiculously hot, crazy sexy read … look no further. I was giggling and fanning myself in equal amounts throughout this entire book. I loved the friends to lovers' idea of this book. Matt and Lexi had amazing chemistry and watching them try to deny it was a pleasure to watch unfold. One of the best scenes is when they have already indulged once. Not knowing the best course of action and scared of voicing their true feelings, they decide to ignore the whole thing ever happened. But neither can stop thinking about the other. Eventually, they end up trying to tempt each other. Matt mows the lawn shirtless, Lexi does yoga in the front window, and that’s just the footnote of the scene. I mean who would be able to resist? These two tempt and torment each other relentlessly, and it’s brilliant. The one thing I became annoyed with was the incessant bagging on Lexi and her cooking skills. Heck, skills in the kitchen, period. Forget only the cooking ability. Or inability as it were. At first, it was just a bit of ribbing between friends given the debacle in her kitchen. Understandable. But Lexi has a horrific reputation in this respect and they never let her forget it. After a while I just wanted them to shut up and leave her alone. It almost bordered on unfriendly banter, so if I had a complaint, it’s definitely the unrelenting teasing.
Several secondary
characters add a lot to this story. I especially found Matt’s grandmother entertaining. She’s like the cool kid that never got the memo that she’s older. Living just as carefree as a teenager, but wise with her years of experience, this lady damn near steals the book. Bordering on inappropriate, she’s the grandma everyone wants to have. Lexi’s parents were also introduced. They didn’t have a very big role to play within these pages, but I appreciated their supportive nature and love for the main characters. On the more serious side is a fellow firefighter, Diego. Recently divorced, his wife cheated on him, yet he still maintains his belief in love and ends up playing a pivotal role in bringing one of the characters round to seeing the truth of their relationship. If I wanted to see anyone’s story following this book, it’s definitely Diego. A guy as great as he is with the crap deal he got doesn’t deserve to remain unhappy. He must have his own HEA at some point. I’m not sure if there is another book within this series yet. I assume there is one for Shane and Caitlin, but I could be wrong. This book is listed at part of the series, FIREFIGHTERS OF STATION 1, but it has no number associated with it. As a result, I am unsure if it is the first book in the series, or not. Regardless of its order within the series, it is a truly entertaining read that just might have you blushing as you read through a few particular pages. The passion between Matt and Lexi is crazy hot and the games they play with one another are exciting if a little annoying. I only say annoying because at one point I was screaming at them to just drop the façade and get it on. The fact they truly know each other inside and out allows them to play on a whole different level than your typical neighbors to lovers book. This best friends to lovers aspect definitely kicked things up a notch. And with them living next door, temporarily together, and working together, there isn’t much time to play the avoidance game they are set on enacting. Or maybe there is more than enough time, depending on how you look at it. As a first read with Ms. Ballance, this book was fantastic. I enjoyed every minute spent with this cast of quirky characters and eagerly await my next experience with these hot firefighters and the women who set them ablaze.
Kindle version provided by NetGalley/Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Lexie isn’t known for her cooking prowess. A disaster in the kitchen she might be, but she is determined to bake a successful version of Matt’s grandmother’s tart. Big mistake. All she is left with is a flaming kitchen, a ruined family heirloom tart pan, and all of her co-workers on her front porch dousing the inferno. The most sensible plan is to move next door with her best friend, Matt, during the renovations. After a bit of hesitation, she concedes. But the forced proximity to her best friend since childhood stirs up all kinds of emotions and feelings they have never allowed themselves to explore for fear of ruining their perfect friendship. But chemistry and attraction under the same roof are difficult to extinguish and before too long, Lexi and Matt are creating a blaze of their own. But where do you go once the line has been crossed?
Matt has wanted Lexi since forever, but once they settled into their comfortable friendship, the risk involved if they didn’t work out became too much to gamble against. So when Lexi needs a place to crash, offering her a place to stay is automatic. What he didn’t count on was the fierce protectiveness that would consume him. And the fact that she’s just started dating – and a cop (his biggest rival as a firefighter) – isn’t helping one bit. So when they finally give in to their overwhelming passion, neither knows how to proceed, terrified that everything will change. And boy does it. Now something big is simmering and the outcome will determine if their relationship is ruined or has simply moved up the ladder to the next rung.
You guys! If you want a super fun, super cute, ridiculously hot, crazy sexy read … look no further. I was giggling and fanning myself in equal amounts throughout this entire book. I loved the friends to lovers' idea of this book. Matt and Lexi had amazing chemistry and watching them try to deny it was a pleasure to watch unfold. One of the best scenes is when they have already indulged once. Not knowing the best course of action and scared of voicing their true feelings, they decide to ignore the whole thing ever happened. But neither can stop thinking about the other. Eventually, they end up trying to tempt each other. Matt mows the lawn shirtless, Lexi does yoga in the front window, and that’s just the footnote of the scene. I mean who would be able to resist? These two tempt and torment each other relentlessly, and it’s brilliant. The one thing I became annoyed with was the incessant bagging on Lexi and her cooking skills. Heck, skills in the kitchen, period. Forget only the cooking ability. Or inability as it were. At first, it was just a bit of ribbing between friends given the debacle in her kitchen. Understandable. But Lexi has a horrific reputation in this respect and they never let her forget it. After a while I just wanted them to shut up and leave her alone. It almost bordered on unfriendly banter, so if I had a complaint, it’s definitely the unrelenting teasing.
Several secondary
characters add a lot to this story. I especially found Matt’s grandmother entertaining. She’s like the cool kid that never got the memo that she’s older. Living just as carefree as a teenager, but wise with her years of experience, this lady damn near steals the book. Bordering on inappropriate, she’s the grandma everyone wants to have. Lexi’s parents were also introduced. They didn’t have a very big role to play within these pages, but I appreciated their supportive nature and love for the main characters. On the more serious side is a fellow firefighter, Diego. Recently divorced, his wife cheated on him, yet he still maintains his belief in love and ends up playing a pivotal role in bringing one of the characters round to seeing the truth of their relationship. If I wanted to see anyone’s story following this book, it’s definitely Diego. A guy as great as he is with the crap deal he got doesn’t deserve to remain unhappy. He must have his own HEA at some point. I’m not sure if there is another book within this series yet. I assume there is one for Shane and Caitlin, but I could be wrong. This book is listed at part of the series, FIREFIGHTERS OF STATION 1, but it has no number associated with it. As a result, I am unsure if it is the first book in the series, or not. Regardless of its order within the series, it is a truly entertaining read that just might have you blushing as you read through a few particular pages. The passion between Matt and Lexi is crazy hot and the games they play with one another are exciting if a little annoying. I only say annoying because at one point I was screaming at them to just drop the façade and get it on. The fact they truly know each other inside and out allows them to play on a whole different level than your typical neighbors to lovers book. This best friends to lovers aspect definitely kicked things up a notch. And with them living next door, temporarily together, and working together, there isn’t much time to play the avoidance game they are set on enacting. Or maybe there is more than enough time, depending on how you look at it. As a first read with Ms. Ballance, this book was fantastic. I enjoyed every minute spent with this cast of quirky characters and eagerly await my next experience with these hot firefighters and the women who set them ablaze.
Kindle version provided by NetGalley/Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2020
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This was the first book that I have read by this author, but it will not be my last!
Lexi Dean and Matt Freeman have been best friends since before Matt's parents were killed in a car crash. Lexi's parents helped Matt's grandmother raise him so they were always in each other's lives, it seemed. As adults, Lexi and Matt seemed joined at the hip....they lived next door to each other, shared a dog, and even worked at the same firehouse. She did his laundry and he cooked for her....which was good because Lexi was not good in the kitchen. She had a tendency to set her kitchen on fire which is how their predicament began...
After being forced to move in with Matt for a couple weeks after her latest kitchen mishap, things begin to change between the two. Even though they basically spent time with each other before the fire, their awareness of each other in even closer proximity grew to uncomfortable levels. Matt knows that Lexi wants a white picket fence, 2.5 kids, and a marriage for her HEA but he doesn't feel he can deliver that to her so he pushes back his newfound sexual feelings for her. Lexi, not wanting to lose her best friend, does the same. It seems the universe doesn't care what they want though, and they are thrown into situations which test their resolve. Humor, jealousy, and hot passion make this book a very fun read! 5 stars!
Lexi Dean and Matt Freeman have been best friends since before Matt's parents were killed in a car crash. Lexi's parents helped Matt's grandmother raise him so they were always in each other's lives, it seemed. As adults, Lexi and Matt seemed joined at the hip....they lived next door to each other, shared a dog, and even worked at the same firehouse. She did his laundry and he cooked for her....which was good because Lexi was not good in the kitchen. She had a tendency to set her kitchen on fire which is how their predicament began...
After being forced to move in with Matt for a couple weeks after her latest kitchen mishap, things begin to change between the two. Even though they basically spent time with each other before the fire, their awareness of each other in even closer proximity grew to uncomfortable levels. Matt knows that Lexi wants a white picket fence, 2.5 kids, and a marriage for her HEA but he doesn't feel he can deliver that to her so he pushes back his newfound sexual feelings for her. Lexi, not wanting to lose her best friend, does the same. It seems the universe doesn't care what they want though, and they are thrown into situations which test their resolve. Humor, jealousy, and hot passion make this book a very fun read! 5 stars!
May 10, 2020
Friends to lovers is one of my favourite romance novel themes. In this story, not only are Lexi and Matt best friends, but they also happen to live next door to one another. They've been friends since they were small children and this is one of the reasons that they've never taken their relationship down a romantic path, they're already like a married couple and they seem to be the only ones that can't see that they really should be together. It isn't until Lexi starts to look elsewhere for a bit of romance in her life that they both realise what they stand to lose.
This is quite a sweet romance. There is quite a bit of heat between our hero and heroine, although they don't fully realise what it is straight away. There are some interesting secondary characters in this book, particularly Matt's grandmother who is growing old disgracefully and having a lot of fun in the process.
This is the second in a series and although I haven't read the first, that didn't really matter. I assume that there may be stories to come for the unattached firefighters in this book. I'd certainly be keen to read more about them.
Overall this was a good romance with a good dose of humour and fun. I really enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is quite a sweet romance. There is quite a bit of heat between our hero and heroine, although they don't fully realise what it is straight away. There are some interesting secondary characters in this book, particularly Matt's grandmother who is growing old disgracefully and having a lot of fun in the process.
This is the second in a series and although I haven't read the first, that didn't really matter. I assume that there may be stories to come for the unattached firefighters in this book. I'd certainly be keen to read more about them.
Overall this was a good romance with a good dose of humour and fun. I really enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 21, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I loved it so much that I also purchased a copy.
This book is the second one of the series but you don't have to read the first one to fully understand and enjoy this one. This was written in my favorite dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the character's thoughts really help me to connect and understand their actions in the scenes.
Matt Freeman and Lexi Dean are best friends since their childhood when he came to live with his grandmother (Elsie) after his parents' death. Lexi's parents helped to care for Matt as Elsie was in severe pain from arthritis. Now Matt and Lexi live next door to each other. Firefighter Matt cooks for Lexi, who is a disaster in the kitchen while Lexi does Matt's laundry. It is the perfect exchange for these friends especially when Matt comes to deliver Lexi's breakfast to see her poor attempt to put out a kitchen fire.
Lexi goes to live with Matt while her kitchen gets a remodel. Watching how these two navigate from BFF to something more was a delightfully charming read. There were some really great scenes (especially with Elsie and her comebacks!!!!) I laughed out loud more than once. It is romcom at it's best.
This is a sexy read so just a word of warning if you are not into that.
This book is the second one of the series but you don't have to read the first one to fully understand and enjoy this one. This was written in my favorite dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the character's thoughts really help me to connect and understand their actions in the scenes.
Matt Freeman and Lexi Dean are best friends since their childhood when he came to live with his grandmother (Elsie) after his parents' death. Lexi's parents helped to care for Matt as Elsie was in severe pain from arthritis. Now Matt and Lexi live next door to each other. Firefighter Matt cooks for Lexi, who is a disaster in the kitchen while Lexi does Matt's laundry. It is the perfect exchange for these friends especially when Matt comes to deliver Lexi's breakfast to see her poor attempt to put out a kitchen fire.
Lexi goes to live with Matt while her kitchen gets a remodel. Watching how these two navigate from BFF to something more was a delightfully charming read. There were some really great scenes (especially with Elsie and her comebacks!!!!) I laughed out loud more than once. It is romcom at it's best.
This is a sexy read so just a word of warning if you are not into that.
April 25, 2020
Ah! I came into this with the full expectation of angst, witty banter and friends to lovers excellence and that’s exactly what I got. I’m so happy I could fly, no kidding!
Matt and Lexi are by far one of my favourite couples - Lexi as a heroine is witty, hilarious and so so caring while Matt is sarcastic, just the right amount of cocky with that soft spot for our main girl. Oh and did I mention he’s a firefighter? Absolutely sold.
Even the secondary characters were great. I loved Elsie’s hilarious one liners, and the guys at the firehouse with their constant gaslighting deserve an honourable mention. I really do hope we get to hear more from Diego though - I already feel such a sense of protectiveness over him and he honestly deserves the world and more.
The one thing I have to mention however is the flow of the book. While I loved the pacing and found it was very well done, I feel like we were switching between Matt and Lexi’s POV a little too often - sometimes it was mid-scene, sometimes it skipped back to the beginning of the scene - and it got a bit confusing to read. In saying that though, it didn’t take much away from the story which ended up being terrific.
Can’t wait to hear more from Sarah Ballance!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Matt and Lexi are by far one of my favourite couples - Lexi as a heroine is witty, hilarious and so so caring while Matt is sarcastic, just the right amount of cocky with that soft spot for our main girl. Oh and did I mention he’s a firefighter? Absolutely sold.
Even the secondary characters were great. I loved Elsie’s hilarious one liners, and the guys at the firehouse with their constant gaslighting deserve an honourable mention. I really do hope we get to hear more from Diego though - I already feel such a sense of protectiveness over him and he honestly deserves the world and more.
The one thing I have to mention however is the flow of the book. While I loved the pacing and found it was very well done, I feel like we were switching between Matt and Lexi’s POV a little too often - sometimes it was mid-scene, sometimes it skipped back to the beginning of the scene - and it got a bit confusing to read. In saying that though, it didn’t take much away from the story which ended up being terrific.
Can’t wait to hear more from Sarah Ballance!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
May 12, 2020
This story evolves around firefighters so get ready because it's about to get hot in here...
Saying that Lexi isn't a great cook is an understatement. She burned down her kitchen when she tries to make a pie. Fortunately for her, Matt, neighbor, best friend, co-worker, and firefighter (Yes, he is all that!), arrives in time to get her away from the immediate danger.
Unable to return to her apartment, Matt offers her to stay at his place. After all, they're best friends, work at the same place, share a dog, and love each other's family. What could go wrong? Well, Lexi wants more than friendship in her life and Matt is against ties... but as she starts dating, her new roommate might decide it's time for a new arrangement.
I had high expectations for this book when I started reading it, and let me say this: IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT. This book was everything I didn't know I wanted. The two characters aren't perfect and they know it. The group they work with are entertaining. I adored the banter, the humor, and the teasing, and damn, this was a sexy read.
The author made me swoon and laugh out loud. The temperature in the room climbed a few times. This rom-com is definitely a perfect feel-good book. I highly recommend this one.
Saying that Lexi isn't a great cook is an understatement. She burned down her kitchen when she tries to make a pie. Fortunately for her, Matt, neighbor, best friend, co-worker, and firefighter (Yes, he is all that!), arrives in time to get her away from the immediate danger.
Unable to return to her apartment, Matt offers her to stay at his place. After all, they're best friends, work at the same place, share a dog, and love each other's family. What could go wrong? Well, Lexi wants more than friendship in her life and Matt is against ties... but as she starts dating, her new roommate might decide it's time for a new arrangement.
I had high expectations for this book when I started reading it, and let me say this: IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT. This book was everything I didn't know I wanted. The two characters aren't perfect and they know it. The group they work with are entertaining. I adored the banter, the humor, and the teasing, and damn, this was a sexy read.
The author made me swoon and laugh out loud. The temperature in the room climbed a few times. This rom-com is definitely a perfect feel-good book. I highly recommend this one.
May 12, 2020
This book was okay. There wasn't anything I didn't see coming and the conflict felt too contrived and something a simple conversation could have ended (in chapter 2). But putting the very weak stakes aside, it was a cute read. Some of the friends were a little extra and overdramatized. Some of the jokes went on and on and on. But there were enough cute moments to pull me through. Also, the hero wasn't a hero. And the whole "I can make life or death decisions but I can't make a decision with her" didn't ring true. It would have been better if they had the conversation or if there was something that made them think the stakes were real (the actual stakes were all contrived in their head, like there was nothing in the physical world of the book that even remotely threatened them. Everyone was on board with them being a couple). It isn't a book I would read again, but kind of like one of those Netflix shows you watch because they are simple enough, and cute enough, to pass the time but not something you would invest into the world. Pacing was good and the flow was good.
April 19, 2020
4 Stars for this friends to lovers romance!
Lexi and Matt have been friends since they were in diapers ... the best of friends. When Lexi catches her kitchen on fire and she has to move out of her house, she moves in with her next door neighbour Matt ... that's right they're neighbours that even share a dog! But then they begin to notice each other ... I mean REALLY notice other, neither one wants to give in afraid that they will ruin their friendship forever.
This is a light fun read that will have you laughing. Lexi just cracked me up ... that nobody wanted her to cook ... EVER! And Matt ... who wouldn't want a hunky firefighter right next door or even closer ... no, really who? I enjoyed the banter between the characters and then there's Elise, the grandma ... what a hoot!
I received an early copy courtesy of Entangled Publishings through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
Lexi and Matt have been friends since they were in diapers ... the best of friends. When Lexi catches her kitchen on fire and she has to move out of her house, she moves in with her next door neighbour Matt ... that's right they're neighbours that even share a dog! But then they begin to notice each other ... I mean REALLY notice other, neither one wants to give in afraid that they will ruin their friendship forever.
This is a light fun read that will have you laughing. Lexi just cracked me up ... that nobody wanted her to cook ... EVER! And Matt ... who wouldn't want a hunky firefighter right next door or even closer ... no, really who? I enjoyed the banter between the characters and then there's Elise, the grandma ... what a hoot!
I received an early copy courtesy of Entangled Publishings through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
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