15.4.12

Review: The Boys Next Door by Jennifer Echols


Title: The Boys Next Door (#1)
Author: Jennifer Echols
Published: May 25, 2010
Pages: 339
Series: yes (sequel 'Endless Summer' holds both volumes)
Source: purchased


Amazon Summary: “Two irresistible boys. One unforgettable summer.
Lori can’t wait for her summer at the lake. She loves wakeboarding and hanging with her friends—including the two hotties next door. With the Vader brothers, she’s always been just one of the guys. Now that she’s turning sixteen, she wants to be seen as one of the girls, especially in the eyes of  Sean, the older brother. But that’s not going to happen—not if the younger brother, Adam, can help it.
Lori plans to make Sean jealous by spending time with Adam. Adam has plans of his own for Lori. As the air heats up, so does this love triangle. Will Lori's romantic summer melt into one hot mess?”

**REVIEW**
Firstly, the cover for ‘The Boys Next Door’ has a mile to go from making the book any justice.

A story about a love triangle between a girl and two brothers she’s known all her life is in itself already incredibly intriguing. Being new to YA novels and spontaneously picking up a copy of 'The Boys Next Door' in my mid teens, I found my absolute favorite book. And I’ve re-read it so many times I’m almost embarrassed to admit.

The book description already does a very good job of summing the story. It’s a deliciously summer-y novel. I’ve never wanted to live by a lake or pack my bags and move to Alabama this much - the setting is so inviting. The plot definitely went by my expectations. It's a great coming-of-age story.

Lori’s so entertaining - she’s witty and sarcastic, stubborn and naive. You’ll wish you were as gutsy and independent as Lori. Echols has done a fantastic job of creating a character whose voice will live on long after finishing the book.

As for two of the three Vader brothers, Sean and Adam - say mind candy? Echols will constantly keep reminding us of exactly how hot and tan and six-packed these brothers are and of ALL the supposedly ”hot boys” I’ve read about, these two still top the list.
As for Adam alone, he’s a conflicted character - pained and impulsive. I fell in love with Adam. His friendship with Lori was subtle and very natural; I enjoyed every step of it. And the bond (or lack thereof) between the brothers was a realistic and good kick to the story.

'The Boys Next Door' will certainly surprise you with emotions you hadn’t geared for. There will be heart-aching moments as well as heartwarming. It'll leave you smiling to yourself.


(4.5/5)

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