The People Next Door

by Bettye Griffin

Moving into a new development on the Florida waterfront, Lisa Canfield is stunned to discover that her first husband and his new family are moving in next door, and soon past mistakes, old rivalries, and vicious accusations run rampant, forcing them all to find a way to get along. Original. 30,000 first printing.

293 pages, Paperback

Published April 5, 2005

Reviews

[Alisha]

I picked up this book at the library specifically because the cover was of African Americans. I want to read books with a diverse representation. I care about narratives from POC that are not pigeon holed into only writing about the atrocities they’ve experienced. There are lots of people just living their lives whom I want to learn about and from. I was intrigued by the premise and looked forward to reading this book. I like variety of perspectives and experiences. I liked her writing style pretty well. Her characters were real. There was some name mix ups here and there. I liked that the characters worked through their problems. I wasn’t expecting the (thankfully brief) sex scenes, so FYI to those. There are certain words I didn’t think I’d ever read in this context, but here we are. They were awkward and out of place in their detail. It was a beach read— quick, engaging, but also just REAL LIFE in what it was about. Reading about neighbor and housing woes and drama in the lives of others was a nice escape. Apparently there is a sequel, but I don’t know if I’ll read it.

[Kellee · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was very well written. With that being said, it was also one of the most boring books I have ever read. There was no climax in the book, and if there was I definitely missed it and I really don't see what the whole point of the book was. I'm mad that I even read the book. Won't be reading the sequel.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first, I wasn't sure if I was going to like this book or not when I first started reading it, but it actually was pretty good! I can see this book being a Tyler Perry movie.

[Sarah Weathersby · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a book club selection from prior to my joining the book club. Next month's selection will be Trouble Down the Road the sequel to this. Silly me, I thought it would be a good idea to read this one first. The People Next Door is all about keeping up with the Joneses and all the drama and back-biting that entails. The portrayal is as realistic as the people I have known like these, and I'm so glad I separated myself from them.

[Courtney Scales · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like with all good books, I was sad when I finished reading this novel. I especially like the way the story was written to expose each characters thoughts and anxieties. This style of writing cuts out unnecessary guess work for the reader so the story can be enjoyed. The lesson I took from the book is that we all have insecurities in life. We should recognize this vulnerability in others and try to live peacefully. I will definitely add the sequel to my list of books to read.

[Shannan Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you read a story, and you want to slap the mess out of a character, then you know that is the book for you. I enjoyed this book, and now it's time to revisit the characters and see where the madness started by reading the first book.

[Simone · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dull, superficial, and uninspired.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I work in a library and I just happened to find this book when I was reading shelves one day. I was hooked on the first page and was so excited when I realized that there was a sequel!

[Latoria Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

funny

[Evette · Rating 5 out of 5]

lOVED IT

[Gwen George · Rating 5 out of 5]

good read

[Ltrb Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is well written and the characters are real and relatable.

[Camille · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I am adding Bettye Griffin to one of my favorite authors. This book kept my attention the entire time! It included real life situations!

[Angie Riddick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoy the book.::)

[Kiel · Rating 3 out of 5]

average.it's predictable and the author should've added more clash between the two wives.