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The 400 Block #1
The D- in 403B
Sometimes a change of address can change your whole life.Declan Ward has been called a lot of things in his life. Drug baby, delinquent and dirty little gay boy just to name a few. As a child in foster care, he heard it all and as an adult he knows better than to worry about what other people think of him. But when he gets into a war of words with his neighbor, he earns a new nickname and this time, it’s one he likes, one he decides he should definitely live up to. After all, the new guy never actually said what it was the D stands for in his letters, but Declan has a few ideas and would be more than happy to show him. Brett Coburn is a mature, respectable adult. He doesn’t get into arguments and he doesn’t name call like a kid on the playground. It doesn’t matter that the guy in 403B is the best-looking man Brett has ever laid eyes on. He’s a dickhead and Brett has the letters to prove it. That’s why nobody is more surprised than Brett when their thinly veiled threatening letters take a turn for the fun and flirtatious.Is it possible they have more in common than they realized? Can they overcome the rough start to their friendship and turn it into something more? Or if they let their relationship become about more than just the “D” are they both bound to end up broken hearted?
224 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2020
192 people are currently reading
874 people want to read
About the author
Jess Bryant
42 books584 followersJess Bryant is an avid indoorswoman. A city girl trapped in a country girl's life, her heart resides in Dallas but her soul and roots are in small town Oklahoma. She enjoys manicures, the color pink, and her completely impractical for country life stilettos. She believes that hair color is a legitimate form of therapy, as is reading and writing romance. She started writing as a little girl but her life changed forever when she stole a book from her aunt's Harlequin collection and she's been creating love stories with happily ever afters ever since.
Jess holds a degree in Public Relations from the University of Oklahoma and is a lifetime supporter of her school and athletic teams. And why not? They have a ton of National Championships! She may be a girlie girl but she knows her sports stats and isn't afraid to tell you that your school isn't as cool as hers... or that your sports romance got it all wrong.
For more information on Jess and upcoming releases, contact her at JessBryantBooks@gmail.com or follow her on her many social media accounts for news and shenanigans.
Jess holds a degree in Public Relations from the University of Oklahoma and is a lifetime supporter of her school and athletic teams. And why not? They have a ton of National Championships! She may be a girlie girl but she knows her sports stats and isn't afraid to tell you that your school isn't as cool as hers... or that your sports romance got it all wrong.
For more information on Jess and upcoming releases, contact her at JessBryantBooks@gmail.com or follow her on her many social media accounts for news and shenanigans.
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June 7, 2020
RATING 4.5 STARS
The D- in 403B, by Jess Bryant, is a stand alone, M/M romance that will make you smile and win your heart.
Declan Ward is twenty four years old and is a successful artist. You’d never know it, though, when you see the apartment he lives in which isn’t in the greatest part of town. And the public transportation he prefers instead of purchasing a car of his own. Declan grew up in the system. He knows what it’s like to have nothing. The only person he calls family is seventeen year old Star who he thinks of as a little sister.
Brett Coburn is a twenty eight year old veterinarian who recently went through a bad breakup. He now finds himself in a brand new apartment living out of boxes and trying to start over. He is caring for his ex’s Siberian husky, the dog they were raising together but technically didn’t belong to him. The dog has been having difficulty adjusting and has been barking a lot! Little did he know his neighbor has a terrible fear of dogs.
“There was something about this man, something that drew him like a moth to a flame.”
The first time Declan and Brett glimpsed each other across the hall from each other, they were both struck by the sheer beauty of the other man. That inexplicable pull. Only the savage beast of a dog kept Declan as far away as possible. The things he imagined that dog could do with those teeth. With the option of a face to face confrontation over the barking dog out of the question, Declan resorts to writing a note. But, what started out as an exchange of angry words, soon changed, even became flirty. And then they met.
“Everything inside of him yearned for this man, to know him, to be near him, to be with him.”
I loved this book. That really sums up my feelings in those four little words. A relationship that started with hand written notes makes me sigh. These two never even knew what they needed until they met each other. They just understood what the other needed somehow. But every happy ever after has it’s glitches as did this one. And I absolutely loved the way the author helped them to work through them.
This is an adorable must read. Declan and Brett burrowed themselves right into my heart. The addition of Star to the mix made it perfect. I loved the little family they created. I’ve read several of Jess Bryant’s books now and I love the way she tells a story. I can’t wait to see what she is going to do next.
“They’d crossed paths by complete chance but now they were part of each other’s lives.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
The D- in 403B, by Jess Bryant, is a stand alone, M/M romance that will make you smile and win your heart.
Declan Ward is twenty four years old and is a successful artist. You’d never know it, though, when you see the apartment he lives in which isn’t in the greatest part of town. And the public transportation he prefers instead of purchasing a car of his own. Declan grew up in the system. He knows what it’s like to have nothing. The only person he calls family is seventeen year old Star who he thinks of as a little sister.
Brett Coburn is a twenty eight year old veterinarian who recently went through a bad breakup. He now finds himself in a brand new apartment living out of boxes and trying to start over. He is caring for his ex’s Siberian husky, the dog they were raising together but technically didn’t belong to him. The dog has been having difficulty adjusting and has been barking a lot! Little did he know his neighbor has a terrible fear of dogs.
“There was something about this man, something that drew him like a moth to a flame.”
The first time Declan and Brett glimpsed each other across the hall from each other, they were both struck by the sheer beauty of the other man. That inexplicable pull. Only the savage beast of a dog kept Declan as far away as possible. The things he imagined that dog could do with those teeth. With the option of a face to face confrontation over the barking dog out of the question, Declan resorts to writing a note. But, what started out as an exchange of angry words, soon changed, even became flirty. And then they met.
“Everything inside of him yearned for this man, to know him, to be near him, to be with him.”
I loved this book. That really sums up my feelings in those four little words. A relationship that started with hand written notes makes me sigh. These two never even knew what they needed until they met each other. They just understood what the other needed somehow. But every happy ever after has it’s glitches as did this one. And I absolutely loved the way the author helped them to work through them.
This is an adorable must read. Declan and Brett burrowed themselves right into my heart. The addition of Star to the mix made it perfect. I loved the little family they created. I’ve read several of Jess Bryant’s books now and I love the way she tells a story. I can’t wait to see what she is going to do next.
“They’d crossed paths by complete chance but now they were part of each other’s lives.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
September 16, 2020
Well shit. This book resonated with me on a whole different level. I was so not ready for it.
This is a sweet story. Declan and Brett are neighbours and they gets off on the wrong foot right from the start, ending up sending each other notes. In the beginning these notes were angry notes but they soon became something else. And let me tell you. I loved the notes. They were hilarious and showed off the Declan's and Brett's personalities perfectly. From there things quickly goes to meeting and then more. The way these guys communicated with each other (ok not always but almost always), was a great change to how these stories usual goes.
But what really blew me away was Declan. I could see myself in so much of him. The way he needed love. The way he got needy in relationships. Well, that was me before I met my husband. The feeling of never being worthy, having guys walking out of your life. Me.
Heck, even being scared of dogs and getting the here's a dog thrown in your face treatment. Me. And look at me now. Crazy dog person.
Massive book hungover is incoming. Read this book though. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
This is a sweet story. Declan and Brett are neighbours and they gets off on the wrong foot right from the start, ending up sending each other notes. In the beginning these notes were angry notes but they soon became something else. And let me tell you. I loved the notes. They were hilarious and showed off the Declan's and Brett's personalities perfectly. From there things quickly goes to meeting and then more. The way these guys communicated with each other (ok not always but almost always), was a great change to how these stories usual goes.
But what really blew me away was Declan. I could see myself in so much of him. The way he needed love. The way he got needy in relationships. Well, that was me before I met my husband. The feeling of never being worthy, having guys walking out of your life. Me.
Heck, even being scared of dogs and getting the here's a dog thrown in your face treatment. Me. And look at me now. Crazy dog person.
Massive book hungover is incoming. Read this book though. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
April 4, 2021
This was the sweet, low-angst read I needed. Both MCs were very cute and they communicated well. Their letters at the beginning were fun and made their story not feel insta-love. They both supported each other which was nice. My only niggle would be with the ending (before the epilogue), it did not feel unnecessary but I feel it could have been handled better . I would recommend because it was sweet and kept my interest.
September 25, 2020
3/5
The D- in403B is a fun and sweet story, but nothing spectacular.
the good
-one of my favorite tropes: enemies-to lovers
-pretty great beginning: I found their immature and douchey notes highly amusing.
-There's actually decent communication and few misunderstandings - far from great, but not terrible either (...and frankly, it's quite sad that 'not terrible' already qualifies as good in my book)
the not so good
-Their relationship felt really rushed to me. They fell in love too fast for my taste.
- My amusement level dropped after they got together, and the book lost some of its appeal.
-The focus was too much on Declan rather than Brett, who, as a result, kinda lacked character depth
-I dislike how the whole dog phobia thing was handled. I know I just praised their communication, but... .
The D- in403B is a fun and sweet story, but nothing spectacular.
the good
-one of my favorite tropes: enemies-to lovers
-pretty great beginning: I found their immature and douchey notes highly amusing.
-There's actually decent communication and few misunderstandings - far from great, but not terrible either (...and frankly, it's quite sad that 'not terrible' already qualifies as good in my book)
the not so good
-Their relationship felt really rushed to me. They fell in love too fast for my taste.
- My amusement level dropped after they got together, and the book lost some of its appeal.
-The focus was too much on Declan rather than Brett, who, as a result, kinda lacked character depth
-I dislike how the whole dog phobia thing was handled. I know I just praised their communication, but... .
June 18, 2020
I started out loving this book. The enemies to loves is always a fun read for me. I also enjoyed the notes and looked forward to Declan and Brett finding each one on their doors.
The book started to go down after they got together. Declan had all kinds of anxiety issues including fear of abandonment and a fear of dogs. This means the middle of the book was filled with long inner monologues of his fears. This was very boring. It did have a HEA ending, but by then it had lost most of it’s appeal.
The book started to go down after they got together. Declan had all kinds of anxiety issues including fear of abandonment and a fear of dogs. This means the middle of the book was filled with long inner monologues of his fears. This was very boring. It did have a HEA ending, but by then it had lost most of it’s appeal.
May 29, 2020
This was a seemingly simple MM Romance with plenty of sweet moments. Declan and Brett both have baggage to work through and the author explores some big issues with a very subtle hand.
I enjoyed the notes they shared - I am a sucker for notes, emails etc in stories. They always make me smile.
Star was a fantastic side character and I loved the family this group built together.
I received an arc of this book.
I enjoyed the notes they shared - I am a sucker for notes, emails etc in stories. They always make me smile.
Star was a fantastic side character and I loved the family this group built together.
I received an arc of this book.
March 14, 2022
1,5 ⭐
I really liked the idea of this book and the beginning. The notes were funny and amazing.
But there was too much inner monologue and description of what was happening or happened instead of action. We were told what was happening and didn't actually see it happen for the most parts. There was barely any talking between the characters too.
I wished I liked this book more. The main characters were really interesting, but the writing style just wasn't a win for me.
I really liked the idea of this book and the beginning. The notes were funny and amazing.
But there was too much inner monologue and description of what was happening or happened instead of action. We were told what was happening and didn't actually see it happen for the most parts. There was barely any talking between the characters too.
I wished I liked this book more. The main characters were really interesting, but the writing style just wasn't a win for me.
August 30, 2020
DNF @ 23%.
If you have two guys, one who gets upset that your dog is barking all day and waking them up, and one who has implied that you have a nefarious relationship with a minor... an accusation that can ruin someones life, regardless of whether or not it's true, who would you think is the D- in that situation?
I don't like Brett. Yes, they both acted rather immature with the notes as opposed to actually discussing things, but Brett was something else. And I'm a huge dog lover, but I'm not going to label someone's fear of dogs as irrational. It's also a dick move to have a vocal dog in a shared complex... I don't know how many rescue groups I see indicating that a dog is vocal and not suitable for apartment living (which is often why they get rehomed in the first place). I mean, my neighbours are nice and their dog is cute, but it sure pisses me off when they put him out in the middle of the night and let him bark at god knows what for 30+ minutes. And you think an appropriate way of handling the situation is by implying they are a statutory rapist? I mean, a) some people look a lot younger than they are (I still get ID'd at the movies at 31 years of age), b) you know literally nothing about either of them or the nature of their relationship and are basing it solely on the fact that he didn't have a shirt on and she slept over and c) if you actually thought it was true, I would think you have a moral obligation to do more than threaten to tattle on them. People have had their lives ruined by false accusations like this. Like, you think he needs to apologize to you, but I think you owe Declan a HUGE apology, Brett. You're the one violating your lease, after all.
That being said, if I was petrified of dogs, to the extent that my neighbour's dog barking was giving me night terrors, I think I would have found an apartment complex that didn't allow pets.
I wouldn't have finished reading this, and in fact probably wouldn't have read it at all, except that I was going to read The V- in 403C and realized this came first.
If you have two guys, one who gets upset that your dog is barking all day and waking them up, and one who has implied that you have a nefarious relationship with a minor... an accusation that can ruin someones life, regardless of whether or not it's true, who would you think is the D- in that situation?
I don't like Brett. Yes, they both acted rather immature with the notes as opposed to actually discussing things, but Brett was something else. And I'm a huge dog lover, but I'm not going to label someone's fear of dogs as irrational. It's also a dick move to have a vocal dog in a shared complex... I don't know how many rescue groups I see indicating that a dog is vocal and not suitable for apartment living (which is often why they get rehomed in the first place). I mean, my neighbours are nice and their dog is cute, but it sure pisses me off when they put him out in the middle of the night and let him bark at god knows what for 30+ minutes. And you think an appropriate way of handling the situation is by implying they are a statutory rapist? I mean, a) some people look a lot younger than they are (I still get ID'd at the movies at 31 years of age), b) you know literally nothing about either of them or the nature of their relationship and are basing it solely on the fact that he didn't have a shirt on and she slept over and c) if you actually thought it was true, I would think you have a moral obligation to do more than threaten to tattle on them. People have had their lives ruined by false accusations like this. Like, you think he needs to apologize to you, but I think you owe Declan a HUGE apology, Brett. You're the one violating your lease, after all.
That being said, if I was petrified of dogs, to the extent that my neighbour's dog barking was giving me night terrors, I think I would have found an apartment complex that didn't allow pets.
I wouldn't have finished reading this, and in fact probably wouldn't have read it at all, except that I was going to read The V- in 403C and realized this came first.
June 29, 2020
DNF @ 30% (but I did skip to the end to read it). This one just didn't work for me. The retelling of the story from each character's POV ended up feeling repetitive and their growing attraction felt plot-driven rather than character-driven to me.
September 28, 2023
"I want you to come upstairs with me, to my apartment, and I want to strip you naked and make you come.”
I picked this book up as part of the stuff your kindle promo and I'm glad I was able to snag it! It was so cute! I've actually already downloaded the second book in the series. I liked both Declan and Brett. They seem so different on paper, yet there is something about each other that draws the other in. I absolutely LOVED the whole notes exchanging situation. Like the MC's I couldn't wait to get to through the pages to read the next note. It was so fun!
Though there was a bit of drama that ensued in the story, it didn't last too long. Thankfully both Declan and Brett were adults and decided talking to one another was the best way to move past the situation. I enjoyed their happy ending and the found family they have with Declan's pseudo sister Star. I was so happy that we got to hear about Star having her own sort of HEA as well when it came to her aging out of the foster care system. Declan and Brett may not be related to her by blood, but she was family all the same.
I picked this book up as part of the stuff your kindle promo and I'm glad I was able to snag it! It was so cute! I've actually already downloaded the second book in the series. I liked both Declan and Brett. They seem so different on paper, yet there is something about each other that draws the other in. I absolutely LOVED the whole notes exchanging situation. Like the MC's I couldn't wait to get to through the pages to read the next note. It was so fun!
Though there was a bit of drama that ensued in the story, it didn't last too long. Thankfully both Declan and Brett were adults and decided talking to one another was the best way to move past the situation. I enjoyed their happy ending and the found family they have with Declan's pseudo sister Star. I was so happy that we got to hear about Star having her own sort of HEA as well when it came to her aging out of the foster care system. Declan and Brett may not be related to her by blood, but she was family all the same.
June 4, 2020
HOT chemistry 🧪
This was a cute premise. Like pen pals without getting USPS involved.
Brett and Declan are neighbors with completely different schedules and they exchange notes 📝 on each other’s doors. Back and forth for a good portion of the beginning of this book. I’m like are they EVER going to talk in person!
They do and wow! Do they have chemistry. HOT chemistry.
Their slow burn heats up super fast when they finally come face to face.
They both have issues they need to deal with but in the end you do get your HEA and it is very sweet!
This was a cute premise. Like pen pals without getting USPS involved.
Brett and Declan are neighbors with completely different schedules and they exchange notes 📝 on each other’s doors. Back and forth for a good portion of the beginning of this book. I’m like are they EVER going to talk in person!
They do and wow! Do they have chemistry. HOT chemistry.
Their slow burn heats up super fast when they finally come face to face.
They both have issues they need to deal with but in the end you do get your HEA and it is very sweet!
June 5, 2020
Time of death 63%
March 28, 2025
DNF @ 60%
Ngl, it was fun at first and I enjoyed it a lot but then around 40% when these 2 got together I couldn’t stop cringing for even a second. I kept on pushing, giving the benefit of the doubt that maybe it’s just a hiccup, but nope, I just cant take it anymore.
The beginning was really fun, with so much potential.
Without too much details, Declan went through the system until he aged out, and is trying to somehow take care of a now teenager girl, who he met at one of the facilities when they were younger. He had the tortured past I love and a good character.
Brett the vet had an average happy childhood, but totally fell for his straight friend, got into a friends with benefits relationship with him and got dumped and gets their dog as a parting baggage.
So they end up moving across the hall from each other, and then we have all these hate note exchange going on between the two, because Brett’s dog can’t shut up and then the notes get a bit flirty, and then they decide to meet irl.
So up until this point it was fun and games and I liked it a lot, but when they actually meet up, it suddenly all goes south from one moment to another like it was tesla stocks.
Declan literally trauma dumps this guy, then they go back to his place and omg it was just so awkward. It got so emotional and wannabe passionate that I just couldn’t. Brett just called Declan pretty and beautiful and all and almost cried and confessed love. Bro. You literally just met for the first time. Then they both just drool over each other till morning. Of course everybody forgets about poor dog, locked in Brett’s apartment, because poor dog had only 1 job in this book; barking so they can start exchanging notes, and then maybe get used once more later, cause Declan’s afraid of dogs.
Brett just went all “dickardium cumiosa” with his magic wand, fucked Declan’s brain stupid (maybe I’m jealous) and suddenly D’s all needy like a puppy with separation anxiety because his literal one nighter neighbor left to work, even leaving a note. TF? Cause apparently he has developed abandonment issues in the system. Ok, I guess. But literally like 10 pages ago he was confidentially joking how his previous neighbor was his bestie and they just casually hooked up when they had no one else? Inconsistent much?
Then comes more trauma dumping from the both of them, more sobbing and loving on the 2nd day of them actually meeting, and I just couldn’t take it anymore.
Not cute.
Ngl, it was fun at first and I enjoyed it a lot but then around 40% when these 2 got together I couldn’t stop cringing for even a second. I kept on pushing, giving the benefit of the doubt that maybe it’s just a hiccup, but nope, I just cant take it anymore.
The beginning was really fun, with so much potential.
Without too much details, Declan went through the system until he aged out, and is trying to somehow take care of a now teenager girl, who he met at one of the facilities when they were younger. He had the tortured past I love and a good character.
Brett the vet had an average happy childhood, but totally fell for his straight friend, got into a friends with benefits relationship with him and got dumped and gets their dog as a parting baggage.
So they end up moving across the hall from each other, and then we have all these hate note exchange going on between the two, because Brett’s dog can’t shut up and then the notes get a bit flirty, and then they decide to meet irl.
So up until this point it was fun and games and I liked it a lot, but when they actually meet up, it suddenly all goes south from one moment to another like it was tesla stocks.
Declan literally trauma dumps this guy, then they go back to his place and omg it was just so awkward. It got so emotional and wannabe passionate that I just couldn’t. Brett just called Declan pretty and beautiful and all and almost cried and confessed love. Bro. You literally just met for the first time. Then they both just drool over each other till morning. Of course everybody forgets about poor dog, locked in Brett’s apartment, because poor dog had only 1 job in this book; barking so they can start exchanging notes, and then maybe get used once more later, cause Declan’s afraid of dogs.
Brett just went all “dickardium cumiosa” with his magic wand, fucked Declan’s brain stupid (maybe I’m jealous) and suddenly D’s all needy like a puppy with separation anxiety because his literal one nighter neighbor left to work, even leaving a note. TF? Cause apparently he has developed abandonment issues in the system. Ok, I guess. But literally like 10 pages ago he was confidentially joking how his previous neighbor was his bestie and they just casually hooked up when they had no one else? Inconsistent much?
Then comes more trauma dumping from the both of them, more sobbing and loving on the 2nd day of them actually meeting, and I just couldn’t take it anymore.
Not cute.
May 28, 2020
Jess Bryant has once again impressed the pants off me with her latest book “The D In 403B”. It’s a cute and sexy enemies to lovers M/M read.
Declan is a sexy painter who works nights and paints during the day. He’s beautifully damaged and you can’t help but fall for him especially when you see how much he loves Star his (foster) sister.
Then there’s the sexy vet Brett, he’s a tall glass of ice tea on a hot summer’s day. He’s polite, well mannered and the protector of furry four legged creatures. But underneath that, lies a dirty, dirty boy who will make you blush.
These two hit it off - NOT - and begin sparring by leaving each other notes taped to their front doors. I can’t tell you how much I loved this part of the story, it was equal parts hilarious seeing two grown men exchange notes this way and adorable to see them fall in love with each other with every written word they exchange. Their road to happily ever after wasn’t easy but it was beautiful and satisfying. Fall in love with the D in 403B and the man who tamed him. TBR and Enjoy.
Declan is a sexy painter who works nights and paints during the day. He’s beautifully damaged and you can’t help but fall for him especially when you see how much he loves Star his (foster) sister.
Then there’s the sexy vet Brett, he’s a tall glass of ice tea on a hot summer’s day. He’s polite, well mannered and the protector of furry four legged creatures. But underneath that, lies a dirty, dirty boy who will make you blush.
These two hit it off - NOT - and begin sparring by leaving each other notes taped to their front doors. I can’t tell you how much I loved this part of the story, it was equal parts hilarious seeing two grown men exchange notes this way and adorable to see them fall in love with each other with every written word they exchange. Their road to happily ever after wasn’t easy but it was beautiful and satisfying. Fall in love with the D in 403B and the man who tamed him. TBR and Enjoy.
May 28, 2020
This is such a sweet story; all the hearts and stars! This is definitely a love conquers all story! Brett is a sexy vet who recently ended a non-relationship in the worst way. He’s adorable and sweet, and, unexpectedly, loves to be in charge in the bedroom! He cares about animals, basically he’s a perfect book boyfriend. Brett moves into an apartment under duress of needing to get out of his current living arrangements. He brings his ex’s dog with him to keep while the ex is at a conference. Sparta is a husky mix, so she’s a big dog.
Declan is an artist and has a temperament to go with that, but, the guy has a huge heart! He takes care of his little sister Star (not by blood but by circumstance) who is 17. He is a man with an edge; he’s the D in 403B! He’s unhappy with the barking coming from Brett’s apartment, and due to a prior incident, Declan has a trigger for dogs. However, Declan and Brett “see” each other and Declan is taken with the handsome vet, and likewise for Brett, but that doesn’t prevent Declan from leaving notes. The notes are just the best, and this book has inspired me to write notes (nice notes!) to my husband and kids, really and truthfully!
These two reach a point of getting to know each other, develop a wonderful, loving and affectionate relationship and then things change that puts their relationship in jeopardy, but, be still my heart, each one of them is willing to make hard choices and personally challenge himself so they can be together.
This is a five star read! It will make you happy and joyful! Love Conquers All! ❤️
Declan is an artist and has a temperament to go with that, but, the guy has a huge heart! He takes care of his little sister Star (not by blood but by circumstance) who is 17. He is a man with an edge; he’s the D in 403B! He’s unhappy with the barking coming from Brett’s apartment, and due to a prior incident, Declan has a trigger for dogs. However, Declan and Brett “see” each other and Declan is taken with the handsome vet, and likewise for Brett, but that doesn’t prevent Declan from leaving notes. The notes are just the best, and this book has inspired me to write notes (nice notes!) to my husband and kids, really and truthfully!
These two reach a point of getting to know each other, develop a wonderful, loving and affectionate relationship and then things change that puts their relationship in jeopardy, but, be still my heart, each one of them is willing to make hard choices and personally challenge himself so they can be together.
This is a five star read! It will make you happy and joyful! Love Conquers All! ❤️
June 2, 2020
I didn't like it.
I feel bad, because the blurb was interesting, the writing was good, MCs were likable, but the story is so damn SWEET it was too much for me.
It is enemies-to-lovers romance.
The first 20% (or maybe a little bit more) are GREAT. It was funny and cute, I loved the idea of little notes, but later it got REPETITIVE and simply BORING. I had to force myself to read it. I couldn't wait for this book to end, it was much too predictable.
* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *
I feel bad, because the blurb was interesting, the writing was good, MCs were likable, but the story is so damn SWEET it was too much for me.
It is enemies-to-lovers romance.
The first 20% (or maybe a little bit more) are GREAT. It was funny and cute, I loved the idea of little notes, but later it got REPETITIVE and simply BORING. I had to force myself to read it. I couldn't wait for this book to end, it was much too predictable.
* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *
May 21, 2020
Declan is a man after my own heart! He comes across as gruff, and kind of a di@k, but it's all to hide his fears and not just his fear of dogs.
Brett is a total sweetheart, but he's been so hurt that he is afraid to reach out for fear of being wholly rejected. After years of basically being used as a toy, he realizes his desires have changed and grown. He is no longer content being someone's dirty little secret, he wants more this time.
When Declan finally stops acting like an a$$ he realizes that he's truly enjoying the letters back and forth between himself and Brett. After that it's a whirlwind of romance and fun, HOT sexy times, until Brett surprises Declan with something he knows he can't tolerate. Can Declan and Brett find a compromise before they succeed in ruining what is probably the best thing either of them have ever had?
Jess has hit a 5⭐ homerun with The D in 403B! Showing us again that everyone is going through their own issues, and sometimes all that is needed is a little more compassion and understanding. I am totally in love with Declan and Brett, and Jess makes me fall in love faster with every book she writes!!
Brett is a total sweetheart, but he's been so hurt that he is afraid to reach out for fear of being wholly rejected. After years of basically being used as a toy, he realizes his desires have changed and grown. He is no longer content being someone's dirty little secret, he wants more this time.
When Declan finally stops acting like an a$$ he realizes that he's truly enjoying the letters back and forth between himself and Brett. After that it's a whirlwind of romance and fun, HOT sexy times, until Brett surprises Declan with something he knows he can't tolerate. Can Declan and Brett find a compromise before they succeed in ruining what is probably the best thing either of them have ever had?
Jess has hit a 5⭐ homerun with The D in 403B! Showing us again that everyone is going through their own issues, and sometimes all that is needed is a little more compassion and understanding. I am totally in love with Declan and Brett, and Jess makes me fall in love faster with every book she writes!!
April 17, 2021
(audiobook) It was a nice MM romance. I really enjoyed how they learned about each other through written notes first, and that their first real meeting was enough to make them fall for each other. It wasn’t your regular instalove–though they became serious very fast.
Though the heat level was medium, each encounter had meaning and helped building the relationship between Declan and Brett. I loved that the characters were well defined and that their arcs were coherent. Their past and their present were connected and everything made sense.
I’d have loved for the side characters to be as well developped. I felt they were more a means to an end. The story really focuses on Declan and Brett, with a little bit of Star–the other characters were more cardboard.
With two male main characters, one male narrator made sense, and he did a good job, even with the female characters. Except for Star–her voice made me cringe every time. But the emotions were there, and it was quite a good audiobook.
Quickie
- Series: The 400 block #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #MM romance #enemies to lovers #orphan
- Triggers: cheating
- Main couple: Declan Ward & Brett Coburn
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I love versatile couples
- – Star’s voice. No. Just no…
Though the heat level was medium, each encounter had meaning and helped building the relationship between Declan and Brett. I loved that the characters were well defined and that their arcs were coherent. Their past and their present were connected and everything made sense.
I’d have loved for the side characters to be as well developped. I felt they were more a means to an end. The story really focuses on Declan and Brett, with a little bit of Star–the other characters were more cardboard.
With two male main characters, one male narrator made sense, and he did a good job, even with the female characters. Except for Star–her voice made me cringe every time. But the emotions were there, and it was quite a good audiobook.
Quickie
- Series: The 400 block #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #MM romance #enemies to lovers #orphan
- Triggers: cheating
- Main couple: Declan Ward & Brett Coburn
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I love versatile couples
- – Star’s voice. No. Just no…
June 8, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
The beginning of this book is a fun meet-cute as Declan and Brett have words through an exchange of notes. Declan works nights and when Brett moves in and has a dog that barks, keeping Declan awake, Declan is not pleased at all. Declan also has a fear of dogs that stems from a childhood incident. The men had seen each other one time briefly and once the tension settles a little, the notes take a slight flirty turn.
After that, the book went down an overly predictable path for me with a formulaic plot that seemed to be following an old school template at times. Some of the scenes were too carefully worded with “melded mouths” and “deft fingers,” for just two examples.
Declan grew up in the foster care system and is described as having a lot of emotional scars from that. He is terrified of dogs and with Brett being a veterinarian and a dog lover, this poses a significant problem. Yet, Declan’s many issues are either never fully addressed or some are handled off page.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
The beginning of this book is a fun meet-cute as Declan and Brett have words through an exchange of notes. Declan works nights and when Brett moves in and has a dog that barks, keeping Declan awake, Declan is not pleased at all. Declan also has a fear of dogs that stems from a childhood incident. The men had seen each other one time briefly and once the tension settles a little, the notes take a slight flirty turn.
After that, the book went down an overly predictable path for me with a formulaic plot that seemed to be following an old school template at times. Some of the scenes were too carefully worded with “melded mouths” and “deft fingers,” for just two examples.
Declan grew up in the foster care system and is described as having a lot of emotional scars from that. He is terrified of dogs and with Brett being a veterinarian and a dog lover, this poses a significant problem. Yet, Declan’s many issues are either never fully addressed or some are handled off page.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
June 5, 2020
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This story of two neighbours who meet through the angry notes they post on each other’s doors is an amusing read.
Declan is an artist with a fear of dogs and Brett is a vet caring for a large, loud Husky. As much as it is a fun plot device, I actually think the initial notes between the two men is the weakest part of the novel. With the focus on the cute notes, there isn’t enough focus on exploring the characters in as much depth as I’d have liked. We don’t get to know much about Brett beyond his recent breakup and I wanted to know so much more about Declan’s life and his art. And also - these are supposed to be two accomplished grown ups. The notes feel like high school and I lost a little more respect for the men with each successive note.
This is a pretty basic romantic comedy. It’s an entertaining but superficial read. Readers don’t see much depth to either character and the silence and miscommunication diminishes the characters and their relationship. This is an easy, single sitting read for readers who want sweet and cute and who don’t want to think too hard.
This story of two neighbours who meet through the angry notes they post on each other’s doors is an amusing read.
Declan is an artist with a fear of dogs and Brett is a vet caring for a large, loud Husky. As much as it is a fun plot device, I actually think the initial notes between the two men is the weakest part of the novel. With the focus on the cute notes, there isn’t enough focus on exploring the characters in as much depth as I’d have liked. We don’t get to know much about Brett beyond his recent breakup and I wanted to know so much more about Declan’s life and his art. And also - these are supposed to be two accomplished grown ups. The notes feel like high school and I lost a little more respect for the men with each successive note.
This is a pretty basic romantic comedy. It’s an entertaining but superficial read. Readers don’t see much depth to either character and the silence and miscommunication diminishes the characters and their relationship. This is an easy, single sitting read for readers who want sweet and cute and who don’t want to think too hard.
May 28, 2020
This was wonderful! It starts off with grumpy artist Declan writing a threatening note to his cheery (and sexy) neighbor Brett and it takes off from there. I loved all the notes, they were snarky and cute, and reflected each of their personalities perfectly. These two together were adorable, and this story was just the right amount of fluffy. There were some harder times, but I really enjoyed the way they handled and worked through it. I don’t really read MF anymore, but I will be checking out the other MM books by this author!
May 26, 2020
This is a book that will hit you straight through the heart. In this day and age I can totally imagine this all happening. Maybe it’s because I’ve seen both sides of this story in real life. I don’t do spoilers. I don’t believe it’s fair to the author. Besides where’s the fun if I retell you the story. Read the blurb and buy the book. Enjoy the story all by yourself.
Declan, the broody artist with a heart. He’s seen the harder parts of life and has learned so much.
Brett, the gorgeous vet. Life growing up was good. But then you grow up and learn the truth.
Two beings so different but together make so much sense.
This isn’t just an MM story. This is a life story. When I read it I became so engrossed and absorbed in the soul of this book, gender difference fades into the background. Don’t worry you get the heat you’re looking for but the heat is generated from the depth of feeling, the everyday smiles, the trepidation of meeting someone new, the grade school crush you probably had, the butterflies in the stomach, the fear of putting yourself out there, your first fight. Yes, this book has it all, even dogs and great secondary characters that I’m dying to find out more about and really entertaining notes. It’s a quick read because you won’t want to put it down. I didn’t and was left wanting more. That’s always a good thing.
Declan, the broody artist with a heart. He’s seen the harder parts of life and has learned so much.
Brett, the gorgeous vet. Life growing up was good. But then you grow up and learn the truth.
Two beings so different but together make so much sense.
This isn’t just an MM story. This is a life story. When I read it I became so engrossed and absorbed in the soul of this book, gender difference fades into the background. Don’t worry you get the heat you’re looking for but the heat is generated from the depth of feeling, the everyday smiles, the trepidation of meeting someone new, the grade school crush you probably had, the butterflies in the stomach, the fear of putting yourself out there, your first fight. Yes, this book has it all, even dogs and great secondary characters that I’m dying to find out more about and really entertaining notes. It’s a quick read because you won’t want to put it down. I didn’t and was left wanting more. That’s always a good thing.
June 4, 2020
Fun Style. This was a mostly light book that took a rare tack, and that is generally fun when executed well - which it absolutely is here. There is a fair amount of drama here, but the most interesting part about this book is absolutely the notes each man leaves on the other's door. The author even includes them in the text (as well as actually typing them out), so bonus points for going a bit above and beyond creatively. Beyond that, this is a fairly standard MM romance, with all that the genre entails. Maybe a bit more preachy about being explicitly egalitarian in the relationship than many are, though apparently many readers like the genre specifically for this feature of it, so perhaps that would be a bit of a selling point in and of itself. Not one I particularly care about, but eh, it didn't really detract from the story - which is what I absolutely do care about. All in all, very much recommended.
June 4, 2020
A great enemies to lovers story of two neighbours Declan and Brett, the chemistry is so hot between these two I could practically feel my kindle burning!!
Both characters have things in their past that are pretty heavy and although not majorly explored these feelings and issues are dealt with very well.
Letters get passed back and forth between these two at the start of the story and I loved that element of the story, the notes are so cute and you could really feel their relationship forming through them.
A fab read
Both characters have things in their past that are pretty heavy and although not majorly explored these feelings and issues are dealt with very well.
Letters get passed back and forth between these two at the start of the story and I loved that element of the story, the notes are so cute and you could really feel their relationship forming through them.
A fab read
July 20, 2020
Takie 3 z plusem.
June 3, 2020
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
This book was an easy fast read for me. I was grabbed from the very start and didn't stop until I was done. Declan and Brett are so perfect for each other even with all their baggage and differences. The banter between these two with the notes was just amazing. Throw in Declan's sister Star and a cute husky and you got yourself a good afternoon read.
This book was an easy fast read for me. I was grabbed from the very start and didn't stop until I was done. Declan and Brett are so perfect for each other even with all their baggage and differences. The banter between these two with the notes was just amazing. Throw in Declan's sister Star and a cute husky and you got yourself a good afternoon read.
January 3, 2023
The heavy handed insta-love took a lot away from the feel of the story. While I enjoyed the sweet bickering, the plot got boring.
May 11, 2020
Declan and Brett prove there is a fine line between love and hate. Initially they don't like each other and start leaving notes on each others doors. Over time the notes aren't so hateful and actually turn into flirting, then one of them makes a move to meet. Their chemistry is off the charts, but as with every couple they have issues to work through. Can Declan and Brett's love overcome paralyzing fear? When your heart and future is at stake it's amazing what you're willing to do for the ones you love.
Ms. Bryant is an amazing author. If M/M is not your kind of story please don't read this. The D-in 403B is a book about love and acceptance. Don't make the reviews about hate.
Ms. Bryant is an amazing author. If M/M is not your kind of story please don't read this. The D-in 403B is a book about love and acceptance. Don't make the reviews about hate.
dnf
March 14, 2021DNF-ed 50%
Life is too short to read books that aren't holding you interests. I think this all started with the story being in third-person which was different but certainly not a deal breaker but from there things began to unravel. The story desperately needed an editor, there were words missing from sentences and incorrect punctuation. And if you read any of my reviews, I am not a stickler on these sort of things, unless it gets to the point where it is distracting me...case in point, this book.
I was anticipating a whitty, charming rom-com. But while the concept for this novel sounds like perfection, the execution lacked. Declan was a character riddled with inconsistencies, he doesn't do casual but he has had f*ck buddies, he is a loner but seems to have a solid group of friends, etc. You get the idea.
Their unconventional relationship begins with passing a handful of note before they are jumping into bed and professing feelings. Only this whole thing is drowning in insta-love because they barely know each other. The sex scene was weird and clunky. It was like blow-job, then insert Declan having an existential crisis, then make-out, then back to Declan's crisis. It didn't flow and I couldn't tell if the author wanted to share Declan's thoughts with me or wanted them to have sex.
And at this point, I just gave up. I skimmed the last 50% and it doesn't seem like I am missing a whole lot. Insta-love and they live happily-ever-after. No substance, one-dimensional characters, awkward story flow...fin.
Life is too short to read books that aren't holding you interests. I think this all started with the story being in third-person which was different but certainly not a deal breaker but from there things began to unravel. The story desperately needed an editor, there were words missing from sentences and incorrect punctuation. And if you read any of my reviews, I am not a stickler on these sort of things, unless it gets to the point where it is distracting me...case in point, this book.
I was anticipating a whitty, charming rom-com. But while the concept for this novel sounds like perfection, the execution lacked. Declan was a character riddled with inconsistencies, he doesn't do casual but he has had f*ck buddies, he is a loner but seems to have a solid group of friends, etc. You get the idea.
Their unconventional relationship begins with passing a handful of note before they are jumping into bed and professing feelings. Only this whole thing is drowning in insta-love because they barely know each other. The sex scene was weird and clunky. It was like blow-job, then insert Declan having an existential crisis, then make-out, then back to Declan's crisis. It didn't flow and I couldn't tell if the author wanted to share Declan's thoughts with me or wanted them to have sex.
And at this point, I just gave up. I skimmed the last 50% and it doesn't seem like I am missing a whole lot. Insta-love and they live happily-ever-after. No substance, one-dimensional characters, awkward story flow...fin.
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