The HOA election concept was original and I really liked the character of Nate. All along he just seemed like a nice guy who needed to fit into a community and create a family for himself.

I like the enemies to lovers trope but the banter in the first part of the book was often teetering on the razor’s edge from fun, clever and witty to mean spirited.
I also thought some of the Midwestern digs and cuts on Ohioans were a bit stereotypical and cliched. If Collins was from NYC or LA originally maybe these would have played differently, but since she was born and raised in Ohio, they felt overdone and often came off as insulting.

I liked the second part of the book much better than the first. After Nate and Collins talked and understood why he changed after a summer away in high school, Next-Door Nemesis was more enjoyable to read.

Alexa Martin excels at writing friendships and the new friend MLM magnet Ashleigh and her childhood friend man-hating divorce lawyer Ruby are excellent examples. I am hoping Ruby shows up in her own book as her emotional growth story arc would be interesting as she moves toward her own HEA. Perhaps one of her beleaguered assistants will ignite a spark.

Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars

I’d like to thank NetGalley and Berkley for an arc of this book.

I did overall enjoy the story and found the sense to be charming. It just took be a bit of time to get into the story.

3.5 stars!!

I won’t lie the beginning of the book wasn’t my favorite, considering I found Collins a bit annoying and just too much. Nearing the middle, it got a lot better, and I truly enjoyed reading about them, finally realizing they had feelings for each other. The whole competition for the presidency of the HOA was entertaining to read.

This novel was a solid rom-com, witty and charming. Loved the mash-up of childhood friends to lovers and enemies to lovers tropes.

Love this! I love Alexa Martin, but some of her work has been hit or miss for me. This is definitely a hit! Great chemistry between leads, great plot and a fun premise. I also love some supportive parents and a second chance (though technically there was never a first chance, so I'm not sure it counts.) I love the conflict, the protagonist, and the supporting characters. No notes!

This was super cute and a really enjoyable read. At first I wasn't sure how much I was vibing with our FMC, Collins, but then she grew on me. I ended up really enjoying this book and I'm so glad I picked it up. It was well written with a nice and lighthearted plot and enjoyable characters.

This was my first book by Alexa Martin, but it definitely won't be my last. I'm looking forward so reading what else she's got in store for us.

Thank you to the publisher for kindly providing me with an ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Alexa Martin once again proves her mastery in crafting captivating romance novels with her latest release. This time, she takes the thrilling concept of neighbors from hell and combines it with the irresistible enemies-to-lovers trope, resulting in a book that will have romance enthusiasts utterly enthralled.

In this addictive tale, we meet Collins Carter and Nathaniel Adams, former best friends whose relationship took a sharp turn when Nate abandoned Collins to join the popular crowd at school. Their animosity has only grown over time, turning them into fierce arch-nemeses who can barely stand each other's presence. Collins, determined to move forward, pursues her dreams of becoming a screenwriter. However, her world comes crashing down when her long-time boyfriend and mentor betrays her, causing her to have a public breakdown that quickly becomes an internet sensation. With her reputation in ruins and her career prospects dwindling, Collins finds herself returning to her childhood home in Ohio, where she seeks solace living with her parents, immersed in daily Bible rites and indulging in home improvement reality shows alongside her mother. But fate has a wicked sense of humor, as Collins discovers that Nathaniel has moved in next door. Dressed impeccably and radiating an air of pretentiousness, Nathaniel works as a realtor and holds a prominent position on the Homeowners Association (HOA), earning him popularity in the neighborhood. He wastes no time in rubbing Collins' failures in her face, pushing her buttons, and even stooping to blackmail in an attempt to get rid of her.

But Collins isn't one to back down easily. Determined to stand her ground, she enters into a heated competition against Nathaniel for the presidency of the HOA. Assisted by her brilliant lawyer friend Ruby and newfound ally Ashley, a master mixologist, Collins unleashes her arsenal to secure victory and protect her newfound peace. However, amidst the chaos and rivalry, Collins begins to question her assumptions about Nathaniel. Could it be possible that she misjudged his intentions? Is there a chance that beneath their fiery exchanges, a flicker of their former friendship remains? As Nathaniel gradually lets down his guard, Collins finds herself torn between her deep-rooted animosity and an undeniable, simmering attraction. With each passing moment, their chemistry grows stronger, tempting them to explore a connection neither anticipated.

This novel is an absolute delight, offering a perfect blend of humor, passion, and redemption. Alexa Martin's witty writing style shines through, enveloping readers in a story that is as entertaining as it is heartfelt. The exploration of the thin line between love and hate adds depth to the characters, keeping readers on their toes and eager to witness their transformation. Prepare yourself for a wild ride of emotions reminiscent of the finest rom-coms, with echoes of the beloved enemies-to-lovers and friends-to-lovers tropes.

I extend my sincerest gratitude to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for generously providing me with a digital review copy of this enjoyable book. It was an absolute pleasure to immerse myself in its pages and share my honest thoughts.

At 14%, I finally understand why I am not connecting with the book. Collins is so petty and childish. I can’t stand her, and I’m literally rooting for Nate to find anyone -ANYONE- else. Her whole life is over from stupid gossip sites, she’s at her lowest, and she’s still treating Nate like dirt over a freaking high school thing?!

Nate says it best: “Move. I’ve made a life for myself here. I’ve created a community that values me and my contributions. I don’t need some bitter girl from high school causing scenes everywhere I go and making others question my character.” Good on you, Nate. I’m going to end on this line and pretend she leaves him alone and he finds love with someone else.

Had it been dual POV with Nate, I probably could have gotten through this, but at this point I don’t want to spend any more time in Collins head.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.

Where do I begin? The back-and-forth banter between these two hits just right! Alexa Martin is excellent with this! It gives you all the feels. I could not wait until they finally had their moment!

This was a solid, breezy read. The premise was appealing and readers looking for light humor with just a dash of spice will find that here. I enjoyed the small-town/suburb world building and competition between Collins and Nate.

I really loved this and I've already recommended it to friends. The thing is, I knew I'd love it; I love everything Alexa writes. The characters are complex but not unrelatable. It was cute, it was fun and there was just enough spice!

Alexa Martin does it again folks! If you have not been blessed with the wit and humor that is Alexa Martin, you are missing out!

This is the perfect rom-com! You will be laughing from page 1, and will not be able to put this book down. Some of my favorite tropes are in this book and done so well! This is a second chance, friends turned to enemies turned to lovers, loved you since childhood romance that will be one of the best this year!

Alexa Martin writes the funniest most charming romances. There was so much swooning and squealing from me! I loved the characters chemistry and overall loved their love!