In Freya Sampson's "Nosy Neighbors," she delivers another emotionally resonant tale that tugs at your heartstrings in the most poignant way. As the characters come together to unravel the mystery surrounding their beloved home, Shelley House, it becomes clear that the real enigma lies in the complex web of life stories that brought them to this moment. Sampson skillfully unwinds these narratives with a deep appreciation for their humanity, infusing charm and warmth into every character. Whether it's the cantankerous but lovable Dorothy, the enigmatic Kat, or the charming Shelley House itself, you can't help but be drawn into their world.

Shelley House is more than just a building; it's a community, a patchwork of lives, and a place where unlikely friendships bloom. Sampson beautifully captures the essence of these vibrant individuals, and you'll find yourself wishing to be a part of this charming but quirky neighborhood, despite its flaws.

The heart of the story is not just about solving a mystery but about forgiveness, redemption, and the power of letting go. It's a story that's not afraid to delve into the intricate web of relationships between its characters, showcasing the depth of Dorothy and Kat's histories. As you follow their journey, you'll become engrossed in their quest to protect Shelley House, but also in their own personal journeys toward self-forgiveness and reconciliation with others.

While the plot follows the residents as they unite to save their historic home, it's the interpersonal connections, laced with humor and tenderness, that take center stage. The delightful relationship between Dorothy and her notebook, as well as the endearing dynamic between Kat, Joseph, and Reggie the Jack Russell, will warm your heart. While some aspects of the plot may be somewhat predictable, the heartwarming bonds between characters and their quest to preserve Shelley House will keep you captivated.

"Nosy Neighbors" is a delightful and heartwarming read that's perfect for those who love feel-good stories with well-developed characters and a touch of mystery. Sampson's ability to intertwine the lives of her characters and deliver satisfying conclusions to their individual journeys makes this novel a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Whether you're already a fan of Sampson's work or new to her writing, this book is a must-read that will remind you of the beauty of community, forgiveness, and embracing life's quirks.

I would like to express my gratitude to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for providing an advance copy of this book for review.

Freya Sampson never fails to make me cry in the best possible way, and Nosy Neighbors is no exception. While the characters try to solve a mystery in their quest to save their beloved home, it becomes apparent that the real mystery is how they ended up in that situation in the first place--a mystery Sampson slowly unravels with the utmost care for their humanity and abundant charm. It's impossible not to root for Dorothy, Kat, and even Shelley House itself.

3.75 star

I love love love these characters. This book isn’t as heavy on the mystery as I expected, but that’s ok. This is an all around fun book and I hope to see more of these character in the future.

I would like to move in to Shelley House right now, despite and because of its delightful tenants! I guess this is a difficult ask, so I'll have to settle for reading and re-reading this book to pretend that I do, in fact, live there. Sampson gives so much warmth and humanity to every character, even when I'm begging her characters not to do what they're doing. I agree with the other reviewer, this is more in line with Frederick Backman than Richard Osman, but it's infinitely better because it's Freya Sampson.

Nosy Neighbors is not at all what I thought it was going to be. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but I was definitely expecting the book to be focused more on finding the criminal who injured Joseph – kind of murder mystery-esque but without an actual murder, I suppose? Instead it's very Fredrik Backman-y – complete with a crotchety old person – and revolves more around the interpersonal relationships between the characters and their quest to save Shelley House. The themes of forgiveness and letting go of the past are also quite prominent.

First of all, I adored the characters in this book. Dorothy and her notebook are so much fun, and Kat and Joseph are fantastic, too. And Reggie the Jack Russell is the best character of them all, because, well, he's a dog and dogs are perfect. I appreciated the depth of both Dorothy and Kat's characters – their histories are well-fleshed out and intriguing, and I enjoyed learning more about their backstories as the book progressed.

The plot itself is well-written and entertaining, if a little predictable. Dorothy and Kat's (somewhat awkward) relationship is endearing, and you can't help but to root for them as they attempt to save Shelley House together ... and as they work toward learning to forgive themselves and others. I'm slightly disappointed about how the business concerning Joseph and his mystery attacker ended, but every other loose end was wrapped up satisfactorily by the end of the novel. And the epilogue is perfect!

Overall, Nosy Neighbors is a delightful and heart-warming read. If you're a fan of feel-good stories, definitely give this one a go. 4 stars.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review.

The premise is amusing. I stopped after chapter 1 (4%). The writing style didn’t grip me, but it seems like a solid three stars, four for the right readers.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC.