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H Hunting
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Love Next Door (Lakeside Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Helena Hunting (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.4 out of 5 stars 7,763 ratings

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Helena Hunting comes an evocative small-town romance about family loyalty, finding oneself, and falling in love.

When Dillion Stitch left her hometown, she had no intention of going back. But when her brother gets into trouble, Dillion reluctantly agrees to return home to take her place at the family business.

Being back in Pearl Lake after all these years feels familiar but also brings a few surprises. She’s quick to notice that someone new has shown up at the cottage next door. Dillion gets more than an eyeful when she goes to check out the newcomer and meets Donovan “Van” Firestone—her beloved neighbor’s grandson—in all his unclothed glory.

Having gotten off to a rocky start, it’s not long before they begin bickering with each other all over town. All that back-and-forth inevitably sparks an undeniable attraction. But Dillion’s family has issues, Van’s family resents him, and neither Dillion nor Van feels truly at ease in the small town. For these Pearl Lake exiles, home isn’t just where the heart is—it’s where things get complicated.

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  1. Book 1 of 2
    Lakeside
  2. Print length
    299 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publisher
    Montlake
  5. Accessibility
    Learn more
  6. Publication date
    July 27, 2021
  7. File size
    3.9 MB
  8. Page Flip
    Enabled
  9. Word Wise
    Enabled
  10. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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  1. I try not to fall in love with buildings or spaces, because life is fluid and you can’t have roots and wings at the same time.
    Highlighted by 269 Kindle readers
  2. “You’re the best part of my day and the one person I look forward to seeing more than anyone else. I’m lucky to have you in my life.”
    Highlighted by 184 Kindle readers
  3. “You’re my person, Dillion. You gave me a reason to put down roots. You make this place home. You’re my summer love that turned into forever. Be mine, Dillion. Marry me.”
    Highlighted by 148 Kindle readers
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Editorial Reviews

Review

“Love Next Door was a delight to read with its pleasing blend of humorous banter and heartfelt moments.” —Harlequin Junkie

About the Author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Helena Hunting lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She writes contemporary romance ranging from new adult angst to romantic comedy.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08NJHHKBN
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Montlake
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 27, 2021
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 3.9 MB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 299 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1542029315
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Book 1 of 2 ‏ : ‎ Lakeside
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.4 out of 5 stars 7,763 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
H Hunting

H Hunting

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Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

NYT bestselling author Helena Hunting writing angsty new adult romance as H. Hunting.

You can find me at www.helenahunting.com

Customer reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
7,763 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find this book to be a sweet small-town romance with well-developed characters and entertaining banter. Moreover, the writing quality receives positive feedback, with one customer noting it's an easy-to-read slice of loveliness that can be finished in one sitting. Additionally, customers appreciate the mystery content, with one review highlighting the believable amount of angst and challenge in the story. They also value the book's approach to mental health issues, with one review specifically mentioning how it compassionately handles the journey from denial to seeking help.

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ReadabilityRomanceCharacter developmentWriting qualityMystery contentSweetnessAngst levelMental health issues
126 customers mention "Readability"126 positive0 negative

Customers find the book very enjoyable and entertaining, particularly appreciating the banter between characters. One customer mentions it's a perfect weekend/holiday read.

"...Love Next Door is a heartfelt story with a little of everything. This fun read not only made me smile but also had me guessing what would happen next..." Read more

"...is a different kind of story from Helena Hunting and is the perfect weekend/holiday read...." Read more

"...What an absolutely sweet and sexy summer read! This book had witty banter and some hilarious laugh out loud moments, plus the small town aspect that..." Read more

"...It wasn't overly dramatic or underwhelming. It was what it was. It ticked off all the boxes of what I needed: simple, swoony and just right." Read more

80 customers mention "Romance"74 positive6 negative

Customers enjoy the romance in this book, describing it as an awesome small town love story, with one customer noting how summer love grows through life challenges.

"...suspenseful feel to it was well-thought-out, and the conflicts entwined in touching scenes kept me emotionally invested to the last page...." Read more

"...Low angst, plenty of romance and enough steam to keep me turning the pages." Read more

"...witty banter and some hilarious laugh out loud moments, plus the small town aspect that I just love in romance...." Read more

"...York (on a big lake too) and this is a story that very softly burrowed its way into my heart." Read more

55 customers mention "Character development"51 positive4 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book, particularly noting the entertaining banter and the growing relationship between the main characters, with one customer highlighting the refreshing realism of the supporting cast.

"...I loved the two main characters. They're more than merely likable, they're real and just as flawed as you and I and I found myself rooting for them..." Read more

"...There was a large cast of characters with different personalities and flaws which made it interesting to see what would happen next...." Read more

"...It's wonderful, with great character and plot development...." Read more

"...This book has all the feels & wonderful, charming characters you will love. A definite must read!!" Read more

38 customers mention "Writing quality"38 positive0 negative

Customers praise the writing quality of the book, noting it is well written with a perfect narration that can be read in one sitting. One customer describes it as an easy-to-read slice of loveliness.

"...The dual narrative overflowing with flirtatious banter and snappy dialogue in a breathtaking setting was the cherry on the top...." Read more

"...It was what it was. It ticked off all the boxes of what I needed: simple, swoony and just right." Read more

"...Van and Dillion was fantastic, and I was so excited when I found out there was some history there...." Read more

"...my own life and my own relationships with family this book is wonderfully written has just the right amount of sarcastic humor and steamy Romance I..." Read more

29 customers mention "Mystery content"29 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the mystery content of the book, finding it engaging and a great start to a new series, with one customer describing it as a wonderful introduction to a new world.

"...The story was simple but intriguing enough to keep me engaged. It wasn't overly dramatic or underwhelming. It was what it was...." Read more

"Love Next Door is phenomenal start to the new series Lakeside. This is a read that you will not be able to put down...." Read more

"...A fabulous start to the series!" Read more

"This this is the first book of a new series and you're off to a good start...." Read more

25 customers mention "Sweetness"25 positive0 negative

Customers find the book sweet and charming, describing it as a sexy summer read.

"...he loves that she is a spitfire and he wants to know more about this beautiful, intriguing woman...." Read more

"...I’m lucky to have you in my life.” What an absolutely sweet and sexy summer read!..." Read more

"...It ticked off all the boxes of what I needed: simple, swoony and just right." Read more

"...This story’s been waiting on my Kindle for absolute ages, and it’s adorable...." Read more

22 customers mention "Angst level"22 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the level of angst in the book, with one customer noting it comes with a believable amount of challenge, while another mentions it keeps readers engaged with never a dull moment.

"...I loved how they both questioned their feelings silently, the way they began to value what was around them without realising that perhaps a future..." Read more

"...Low angst, plenty of romance and enough steam to keep me turning the pages." Read more

"...I thoroughly enjoy all of her books, whether they are angsty, outrageously hysterical, instalove, slow burns, etc...." Read more

"...That sexual tension building. This was definitely steam light for her. But expected from a published book. The romance is sweet...." Read more

9 customers mention "Mental health issues"9 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate how the book handles mental health issues, with one customer noting how it realistically depicts the journey from denial to seeking help, while another mentions the authentic portrayal of a construction/renovation business.

"...to write funny, entertaining, heartwarming romances while tackling mental health issues as part of the story in a sensitive, believable manner...." Read more

"...This book deals with mental illness, finding your way home, familial loss, second chance love...." Read more

"...These characters are relatable, authentic, and perfectly flawed, and you'll want to be BFFs with them...." Read more

"...I felt that it was done well and honestly." Read more

Small Town Romance
5 out of 5 stars
Small Town Romance
Dillion and Van were the perfect romance book couple! But don’t assume they themselves were perfect because they definitely had their flaws! This was my first audiobook and I was hooked 2 chapters in! This slow burn romance is amazing and always keeps you engaged. Getting to listen to Dillion and Van grow as individuals and as a couple was really heart warming. The slow burn of attraction and banter back and forth was written so perfectly and I found myself laughing out load at times. If you need a easy light read (or listen) I definitely recommend this book!
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Sharon Thérèse
    5.0 out of 5 stars A must-read small-town romance
    Reviewed in the United States on July 27, 2021
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Looking to get lost in the perfect small-town romance this summer? Hunting's first book in the Lakeside Series certainly fits the bill. Love Next Door is a heartfelt story with a little of everything. This fun read not only made me smile but also had me guessing what would happen next. The suspenseful feel to it was well-thought-out, and the conflicts entwined in touching scenes kept me emotionally invested to the last page.

    Curiously, the two protagonists aren’t really townies. Donavan Firestone, a.k.a Van, is a big-city guy and Dillon Stitch’s return wasn’t on her agenda. Their first encounter had me in stitches and just wow, does she have attitude or what! Although Van constantly rubs her up the wrong way, sparks fly. Neither did they see eye to eye, but observing them reminisce about a loved one and getting to know Dillion’s backstory was engrossing. Van has history too, but for some reason, hers seemed to affect me more.

    I couldn’t help falling for Van. If I were sold on his wicked wit and gorgeousness, Dillion’s sharp comebacks impressed me even more. And get ready for small-town gossip at its very best! It’s amazing what you’ll find out whilst eavesdropping on acquaintances in such a tight-knit community. The angst turns up a notch or two when Van’s dilemma reaches its peak, and despite having my suspicions as to whom was behind the deed, that didn’t stop me from lapping up the story.

    I loved how they both questioned their feelings silently, the way they began to value what was around them without realising that perhaps a future was nearer than they had thought possible. The dual narrative overflowing with flirtatious banter and snappy dialogue in a breathtaking setting was the cherry on the top. Not mentioning the hot get your fan ready scenes. Hunting surprised me! Going back to Pearl Lake brought back many happy memories, but I had trouble getting my head around the actions of one individual until all was revealed. What I’m getting at is that it felt real. That, readers, is so important to me.

    I can’t go as far as to tell you how the ending was without spoiling the read. I can’t even tell you which side of the lake was better. Also, sometimes we have to live with our lot, do our best regardless of the situation or go to extremes and take flight. Don’t judge any of the characters too quickly. Just read it! Bravo, Hunting! Five stars!
    7 people found this helpful
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  • Jo Fergus
    4.0 out of 5 stars The perfect weekend/holiday read
    Reviewed in the United States on September 6, 2021
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Dillion may have enjoyed growing up on the shores of Pearl Lake but as soon as she was able to leave for college and start her own career she was outta there. It’s not that she didn’t like it, she just needed to spread her wings - like a lot of people who grow up in small towns.

    After receiving a call from her parents needing her help, she decides that seeing as everything else in her life is going in the wrong direction she may as well head home for a while to see what she can do. Upon arrival she finds she won’t be staying in her childhood bedroom but in the trailer home in the backyard. At least she will find her own peace and privacy there. First thing she wants to do is check on the old cottage next door, it belonged to Bee, her beloved childhood old neighbour who recently passed away. The last thing Dillion expected to find in Bee’s living room room is a very naked man - Donovan Firestone. Well that’s one first impression she will never forget!

    Dillion’s family own a construction business and after her brother injures himself in an accident, her dad needs to pick up the tools again and really needs help in the office. Dillion quickly sees some changes she can make to improve the systems and proves an invaluable asset to her dad. After being at home for just a few days she can see that there is more going on with her brother than she realised and it’s going to be more complicated than she first thought.

    Dillion can’t seem to avoid bumping into her new neighbour Van (Donovan), he seems to have rubbed her completely the wrong way and she is filled with snarlie sarcasm each time they talk. Donovan finds it very amusing, he loves that she is a spitfire and he wants to know more about this beautiful, intriguing woman. This may include finding opportunities to rile her up :)

    All of this pent up annoyance Dillion has all comes to an end when she realises that Van isn’t the bad guy she thought he was, in fact they have much more in common that she realised. She sees that he truly loved his grandmother and misses her dearly. Spending time with Van becomes her favourite thing to do and when things move into a more than friendship zone the undeniable attraction they have ignites.

    This is a different kind of story from Helena Hunting and is the perfect weekend/holiday read. Low angst, plenty of romance and enough steam to keep me turning the pages.
    4 people found this helpful
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  • Kelly - KCBookLover
    5.0 out of 5 stars An absolutely sweet and sexy summer read!
    Reviewed in the United States on July 27, 2021
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    “You’re the best part of my day and the one person I look forward to seeing more than anyone else. I’m lucky to have you in my life.”

    What an absolutely sweet and sexy summer read! This book had witty banter and some hilarious laugh out loud moments, plus the small town aspect that I just love in romance. And let me tell you, Dillion and Van’s first encounter had me laughing out loud!! Nothing like seeing ALL of your neighbor and arguing with him while he’s wearing absolutely nothing

    “Seriously? He lives right next door to you. How are you not taking advantage of that situation?” “I don’t even like him.” “You don’t have to like him to ride him.”

    Van and Dillion’s sexual tension filled banter absolutely made me fall in love with their slow and tentatively built friendship that eventually turned into so much more. Once Dillion realized that Van really wasn’t the bad guy she presumed him to be,
    I loved seeing her discover the sweet man underneath all the charm. But that sweet charm isn’t all she discovers, Van certainly knows how to put that hot body to good use!! With both of them trying to re-evaluate their lives while back in Pearl Lake and some family drama in both of their lives, they finally had someone they could lean on when things got tough. Being back home is nothing like Dillion expected and her journey to happily ever after with Van had me smiling and swooning, the perfect summer read!!

    “I want more days with you than without you. I want to put down roots and build a life, and I want to do that here, with you.”
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Amber | aambuurreads
    3.0 out of 5 stars Simplistic.
    Reviewed in the United States on June 13, 2025
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This was the perfect palette cleanser book. The story was simple but intriguing enough to keep me engaged. It wasn't overly dramatic or underwhelming. It was what it was. It ticked off all the boxes of what I needed: simple, swoony and just right.
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Top reviews from other countries

Translate all reviews to English
  • Daniela S.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Urlaubsstimmung pur
    Reviewed in Germany on August 18, 2021
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Ein neues Buch von Helena Hunting und auch gleich ein Auftakt in eine neue Reihe. Ich war super gespannt.
    Schon allein das Cover war so ganz anders, als man es von ihr gewohnt ist. Mir jedenfalls gefällt es. Irgendwie verbreitet es schon Urlaubsstimmung.
    Und genau das hat das Buch auch vom Inhalt her gebracht. Urlaub verschafft, wenn man nicht selber verreisen kann.
    Dillion kehrt ihrem Job in Chicago den Rücken zu, nachdem sie bei einer Promotion übergangen worden ist und landet wieder in ihrem Heimatort Pearl Lake.
    Donovan "Van" muss aus Chicago "fliehen" nachdem er angeblich Gelder für die eigene Wohltätigkeitsstiftung veruntreut haben soll. So landen beiden aus unterschiedlichen Gründen in der Stadt die sie entweder mit tollen oder weniger guten Erinnerungen verbinden. Van muss sich um den Nachlass seiner verstorbenen Großmutter kümmern, weswegen er teilweise an Dillion gerät. Mit einigen Spannungen arbeiten sie dann doch zusammen.
    Wobei ich beim ersten Drittel des Buches jetzt nicht so den Eindruck hatte, ich lese eine Romancegeschichte, weil es doch recht wenig Interaktion zwischen den Charakteren zusammen gab. Jeder für sich hatte schon eine spannende Geschichte.
    Auch gefiel mir die Interaktion von Dillion und ihrer Familie sowie quasi ihren Neuanfang in der Stadt wo sie jeden noch aus der Schulzeit kennt und sich die Leute entweder komplett verändert haben, oder so gar nicht. Das ganze Setting in der Kleinstadt war sehr anschaulich und charmant geschrieben.
    Eine sehr unterhaltsame Geschichte die nicht langweilig wurde, vielleicht etwas zu kurz.
    Ich wurde wunderbar unterhalten.
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  • Sina Him
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great in all aspects of love and drama
    Reviewed in Canada on October 9, 2021
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Love the ideal of soul mates finding one another. This book will be great for folks that enjoy a good hallmark moment. Because this year reminds me of one. Also endless treasures found which is brilliant.
    Report
  • Kindle Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars I loved this book
    Reviewed in Australia on July 28, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I loved this story about Dillion Stitch and Donovan (Van) Firestone. I loved their journey to them finding their happy ever after.
    Report
  • Marian Chawner
    5.0 out of 5 stars Man next door. Grammie knows best.
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 13, 2021
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    A truly beautiful, gentle story with plenty of drama, side characters that are truly intriguing.Family dynamics, trust issues and jealousy and deception. Van short for Donovan inherits his beloved Grandmother’s cottage comes to sort it out . A while after her death. Dillon the girl next door has to return to her home town due to a loss of job, break up of a relationship and her brother Billy being involved in an accident. Topics discussed are described with both knowledge and sympathy. . Van’s family are closely disjointed, but jealousy and greed lie under the surface! The story unfolds, it is has everything that the reader desires, but mostly a really absorbing story, that captures you on the first page and keeps you until the very end! Well worth 5 stars, by this very talented author, and certainly not a disappointment. Hopefully the other characters will be explored in future books.
    Report
  • Elegant Fantasy
    3.0 out of 5 stars 3.5 stars 🌟
    Reviewed in India on July 28, 2021
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Helena Hunting is one of my favourite authors and I loved her PUCKED series but unfortunately, this one didn't hit as hard as those books did.
    Dillion & Donovan were cute and had good chemistry but I didn't like the plot that much. I was very excited to read the book since it was a small town and next door neighbour romance and it was really interesting up untill some 49% but after that, I lost interest and I skimmed through some parts.
    After a certain character was introduced, it was pretty obvious to me, who caused all the disruption in Van's life.
    Dillion & Van's banters were funny and entertaining but that's pretty much all the book had to offer. I have to admit that their connection was beautiful and I loved grandma Bee for playing cupid for them and the epilogue was satisfying.
    Overall, it was close to four stars but the plot seemed to be weak compared to the other books she's written. I liked Dillion & Van together but I'm definitely more intrigued about Van's sister Teagan & Dillion's friend Aaron.
    Report

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