Step into the hilarious and heartwarming world of the Neighbor from Hell series, where the pesky neighbor next door transforms into the love of your life! Penned by New York Times bestselling author R.L. Mathewson, this contemporary romance series blends laugh-out-loud humor, steamy chemistry, and relatable characters to create a romantic comedy experience that’s impossible to put down. With its unique spin on the enemies-to-lovers trope, Neighbor from Hell has captured the hearts of romance fans who crave stories that make them smile, swoon, and maybe even crave a cupcake or two.
Centered around the quirky and food-obsessed Bradford family, the series turns everyday annoyances—like loud music or stolen parking spots—into the spark for unforgettable love stories. Whether you’re a romance veteran or new to the genre, Neighbor from Hell offers a delightful escape into a world where love conquers all, one mischievous neighbor at a time.
How Neighbor from Hell Began
R.L. Mathewson, a Massachusetts native and single mother of two, crafted the Neighbor from Hell series from her love of humor and relatable storytelling. A former EMT with a knack for weaving real-life quirks into her tales, Mathewson drew inspiration from her own experiences and her passion for romance novels. Launched in 2011 with Playing for Keeps, the series quickly gained traction for its fresh take on contemporary romance, earning praise for its witty banter and charming characters. Mathewson’s goal was simple: create drama-free stories that leave readers grinning, and she’s delivered that in spades across the series’ 14 books.
The Heart of Neighbor from Hell
The Neighbor from Hell series kicks off with Playing for Keeps, where shy Haley Blaine takes on her infuriatingly charming neighbor, Jason Bradford, after he ruins her flowers. What starts as a feud blossoms into a heartwarming romance, setting the tone for the series’ blend of humor and heat. In Perfection, Trevor Bradford swears he’ll never fall for his frumpy tenant Zoe, only to discover she’s everything he never knew he needed. Checkmate pits childhood rivals Rory and Connor against each other in a battle for control of a construction project—and their hearts. Later, Irresistible introduces Melanie, who navigates an unplanned pregnancy and a one-night stand with Aidan Bradford, proving love can thrive in chaos.
Mathewson’s stories shine through their themes of transformation, family, and unexpected love. The Bradford family’s food obsession—think epic battles over the last slice of pizza—adds a hilarious backdrop to each romance. Set in small-town America, the series captures the chaos of everyday life, with neighbors who start as thorns in each other’s sides but end up stealing hearts. Mathewson’s quick wit and knack for crafting feisty, independent heroines and clueless-yet-lovable heroes make each book a standalone gem, though the interconnected Bradford clan ties the series together.
Why Neighbor from Hell Resonates
The Neighbor from Hell series has carved a niche in contemporary romance for its ability to balance humor, heart, and heat. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon rave about the laugh-out-loud moments and the chemistry that leaps off the page. Mathewson’s relatable characters—flawed, funny, and fiercely loyal—resonate with readers who see themselves in the messy, beautiful journey to love. The series’ lighthearted approach offers a refreshing escape from darker romance trends, making it a go-to for readers seeking joy. Its enduring popularity, with titles hitting bestseller lists, proves that Neighbor from Hell is more than a series—it’s a feel-good phenomenon.
- First Book Published: 2011 (Playing for Keeps)
- Total Books: 14
- Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
- Notable Recognition: New York Times and USA Today Bestseller
Ready to laugh, love, and maybe crave some snacks? Grab Playing for Keeps and dive into the Neighbor from Hell series’ delightful world of romance and mischief!