This novella is re-release that was initially published in 2014 by a now-defunct small publisher. This book was not on my radar back then, but luckily, it is today! I thoroughly enjoyed this tale of loves lost and moving forward through grief. Both of our main characters, Hunter and Sylvie, are struggling with the loss of their respective spouses. Hunter lost his high school sweetheart wife in a sudden and tragic car accident years ago. Sylvie’s process was a bit more drawn out. Her husband was severely injured while participating in an extreme sport, while he only technically died recently, he has been lost to her for many years. A mutual friend sends them both to neighboring cottages on the beach to help them clear their minds and figure out their futures. It was not this mutual friend’s intention to play matchmaker but, should it happen, it’ll be all the happier!
As I’ve come to expect from author Natasha Moore, the characters are richly developed. The baggage they carry from their spouses’ deaths reads remarkably realistic and the pace at which love blooms is decidedly spot on. Moore also writes sex and intimacy beautifully, with the appropriate level of steam (hot!) and emotion (deep). Moore’s heroines are always my favorite – they are strong, self-assured, and confident in their actions. This level of agency is always a turn on for me. Her heroes are often a bit stubborn but not unreasonably so. They are willing to learn from their past and are happy to move forward with life…eventually. Natasha Moore has a unique ability to pack a lot of punch into a novella without rushing the story or leaving intimate details uncovered. The Cottage Next Door does not disappoint in this regard. I found the storytelling tight, the pacing perfect, and the conflicts relatable. The characters are endearing, albeit grumpy and sad but also incredibly engaging. I give this one two thumbs up, you should definitely check it out.