From best-selling author Xavier Neal comes a slow-burn romance that’s full of the unexpected…They say all the best things in life are free.I say all the best things in life are easy.That is until easy gets me put on house arrest where I’m stuck with an estranged aunt, a needy cat, and drinking lemonade instead of tequila.Easy suddenly becomes hard.I basically have to sweat to get paid.I finally … becomes hard.
I basically have to sweat to get paid.
I finally realize that great cheesecake doesn’t magically materialize.
And I have to deal with a law-appointed babysitter constantly showing up to c-block my chance of proving to the drop-dead gorgeous neighbor – who I want screaming my name every night – that I’m more than just the crime I committed.
All the best things in life may be easy, but I’m slowly learning that all the greatest require real work.
Real effort.
And most importantly, real sacrifice.
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This is the second edition for this book which contained new content as well as a gorgeous new cover. It was an easy read with characters I could easily relate to.
Theo is the son of a police detective who was killed in the line of duty. Afterwards, his behavior becomes more and more irresponsible and destructive ending in a DWI. Instead of prison, he is sentenced to house arrest living with an estranged aunt.
After moving in with his aunt, he meets his gorgeous new neighbor, Lane. He is immediately drawn to her. I truly loved their journey. Theo is very hot, clever and funny within these pages. I enjoyed the storyline as I do all of this author’s work and won’t hesitate to continue reading her books.
I voluntarily left this review.
I loved this book so much! While I can try to put into words how incredible this book is. I highly recommend you read it for yourselves and see how truly wonderful it is!
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The development was freaking amazing. They went from flirty friends to all out adorable soulmates. The discussion of addictions I thought was awesome. It’s always my favorite when real life issues are discussed in books.
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The writing style I enjoyed more than I expected to. I’ve never read a book with fourth wall breaks being an actual thing. And it was a bit confusing at first, I’ll admit but I got used to it quite quickly. And those moments had me cackling. Those little lines throughout the story from both characters were fantastic. It really helped develop their characters and give a greater insight to them.
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Theo and Lane became one of my favorite non dark romance couples! Theo definitely surprised me. I was not expecting him to be such a sweet and charming character. His redemption arc was quite wholesome and so pleasant to read. *TINY SPOILER* From a sad party boy, who is in the height of his addiction. Into a positive, recovering man, who wants to become a landscaper. And what made it so enjoyable was how it was written. It progressed in an accurate time frame and was not an overwhelming fast development pushed on the readers.
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Lane also threw me for a loop. She was just such a strong and pure heroine. In general, I just really loved her personality and how it was portrayed. I felt that she was just such a positive character and supportive in all the correct ways. She was never overbearing when supporting him, even when they were just friends. Sometimes that’s not always the case in these types of romances. Her job was also refreshing to read about. I have rarely if ever read about a female realtor in a book.
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Overall I really loved this book and series. This will not be the last book I read from this author, that is for sure.
4.30 Theo & Lane stars
You define you. Make every moment count. Make every decision worth being made
A well written story about growing and second chances on life.
Theo is a 28 years’ young man charged with DWI he’s lucky enough to be allowed to spend the last part of his jail sentence at home where he’s tracked through an ankle device. At first Theo appears as a spoiled brat, immature, angry with the world, I won’t hide I didn’t like his childish behaviour. As the story progress we learn more about him, I could understand some of his actions even if I didn’t forgive his attitude, however he really grows, he takes responsibility, he starts thinking like an adult and fess up to his mistakes. By the end of the story I was really proud of the man he has become.
Lane is the woman living next door, she’s beautiful, strong and with a big soft heart. I instantly took a liking to her, I loved her character, how she faced each situations life threw her way, she was a pro at handling Theo, and I’m glad he realises how lucky he is. Theo’s protective side shines bright and strong, Lane deserves this and so much more. She supports Theo since the beginning, despite all her reasonable doubts and fears, she pushes forward, she doesn’t shy away from the ugly parts, taking everything in stride and coming out on top.
The story is told in dual POV, with the characters talking directly to the reader, thankfully these private conversations as the author calls them, are in bold print, and I must say it helps a lot. Although this new narrative technique needed some adjustment in the end I got used to it and I almost longed to hear the character talking to me directly, I also appreciated how often these private talk reflected exactly my thoughts, like they knew what, me as a reader felt at that moment. The narrative pace is steady, the writing flows easily with a good character development, this story isn’t much about action rather than more about inner battles and struggles, there were many interesting points for discussion, so many issues deserving some serious pondering. The author integrates them into the story without going too in depth thus she doesn’t veer from the story plot. All things considered this was a good read.
One night of bad decision making leads to consequences out of Theo’s control. Lane is the neighbor that Theo watches and craves for from afar. Theo and Lane are two amazing characters that you will absolutely love. I’m excited see read more in the Just series.
Just Out of Reach by Xavier Neal is being rebranded and re-released. The storyline was really good. Although at times I felt the main man didn’t take his crime seriously and because he didn’t “injure” anyone then he wasn’t a criminal. And this upset me a bit. But I kept reading and was drawn into the story more and realized it’s just part of the process and I appreciated the read more. The writing by Xavier Neal is phenomenal as always. The steamy scenes are beyond words and the passion between the Lane and Theo is undeniable. This is a standalone but there are other books that are interconnected to this story. I received a free advanced copy to read and review.
How have I never read a Xavier Neal book before now?! With the re-release of this book, I jumped on it and haven’t regretted a single second of sleep I lost! This book was amazing and a great introduction for me to this author. The dual POV and interchange between 1st and 3rd person was so fun to see the banter, inner thoughts and interaction. Thoroughly enjoyed the witty chemistry between the characters, steamy scenes and so glad there was a HEA with no cliffhanger and an epilogue.
Lemonade, landscaping, Lane, and Love. Theo must overcome his recent past and addiction, while dealing with his emotions regarding his family. Lane is dealing with an ex who can’t seem to let go. Theo and Lane are a slow burn but blaze when they finally come together. They both help each other and grow together as they face their problems. I really enjoyed the world Xavier built and the characters development throughout this book. Also, I love the extra commentary where the characters talk to the reader. The relationship Theo has with his aunt breaks my heart but they rebuild and stick together.
This is an updated release and can be read as a standalone. This book breaks the fourth wall, meaning the characters “talk” directly to you. It is a friends-to-lovers trope.
Theo and Lane are so adorably cute! The chemistry is hot, intense and palpable. Their devotion to their friendship first and foremost is heartwarming. I’m such a sucker for a redemption arc and Neal delivers beautifully. The words flow easily and the story progresses quickly. Lane is a loveable and quick witty heroine. Theo is a brooding, alpha male with a big heart. As with Neal’s other works, there is a twist but the journey back to one another is wonderfully sweet. I love all the side characters whose presence is just as important as the main ones. If you love sweet romances with heat, don’t sleep on this book!
Just Out of Reach is a neighbors to lovers standalone romance which is the first book in the Just Series by a new to me author Xavier Neal. Reading books like this makes me so happy to be in the book space because you uncover new authors you never would otherwise.
Just Out of Reach has a very unique plotline as the hero is on a one-year house arrest, living with his estranged aunt due to being arrested for a DUI. Theo, our hero, at first came off entitled as he did after all commit a serious crime. He didn’t seem to grasp the severity of the situation. Then you continue reading and it all falls into place. Some parts are deep and real-world issues to read about like substance abuse and interracial issues.
The story starts off slow. It’s satisfying as you see the relationship between Lane and Theo. Theo is miserable at his aunt’s house until he sees his hot neighbor -actualization, Theo and Lane form a friendship that ultimately leads to a HEA.
This book is honest, raw, and real. Theo isn’t a rich billionaire who solves all of Lane’s problems. The two are their own people trying to find themselves in this world just like everyone else.
There was character growth on both parts which was lovely to read.
This novel breaks the 4th wall which I’ve never read in a novel, however I realized it’s actually not that different than an inner monologue. The dialogue was witty, sharp, and made me laugh. I would recommend this for a slow-burn, low-key, realistic romance with an ultra-hot hero. I would read more from this author in the furuture.
I am so grateful to have received an ARC and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Lane and Theo they meet by chance and from the start they have a spark, but with an ankle bracelet, a curfew, and a police record can these two find a way to become more than friends or will an ex and other circumstances keep them apart? This book pulled right in and oh boy did it give me all the feels. I laughed, almost cried, love the banter and finding out things are not what they seem. An amazing read and I can’t wait to read whatnsh3 has next.
Tee and Isaac are amazing!!!! Their chemistry and storyline are phenomenal, the book was addictive, I couldn’t put it down!!! Xavier Neal had new turning pages so fast, my fingers were smoking!!!! Hot AF five star read!!!!
I really enjoyed this book and loved the writing style. It was definitely fun to get the inner monolog of the characters in bold and the like 4th wall breaking. This book was funny, smart, dramatic, spicy and thoughtful. The character development was great and I loved the build up between the two main characters.
An absolutely amazing story!! I just love Theo and Lane, these two have such great chemistry together. This story just hit me in all the feels!! I highly recommend!!
THE REVIEW FOR THE BOOK: Just Out of Reach
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
AUTHOR: Xavier Neal
TROPE: contemporary romance
TYPE: Just Series #1
POV: Multiple POV
MY RATING: 4.0 Stars
Theo ends up getting a DUI and put on house arrest with his aunt that he hasn’t seen in long time. Lane lives next door to Theo’s aunt and she has this boyfriend who is a bit of a jerk but she keeps him around anyway because she just doesn’t want to be alone. Theo is immediately attracted to his hot next door neighbor and steps in when it comes to her boyfriend.
I really enjoyed this book and the relationship that develops between Theo and Lane. I love that he’s on house arrest and limited in his interactions with Lane. It adds an interesting layer to the overall story. This is the first time I’ve read this book; although, this is the re-release. The writing style was interesting and you get this in-depth perspective into Theo’s POV because it feels like he’s speaking directly to the reader.
I was provided an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
The characters drew me in. They felt real to me. Their emotions had depth and their chemistry was off the charts. I enjoyed the angst between them and seeing them battle their desires internally. A sweet and heartfelt story I couldn’t get enough of. The story moved well and kept me on my toes. I never could quite guess what was happening next.
This was my first book by Xavier Neal and I really enjoyed it. It took me a hot minute to get used to the darker text vs lighter text but once I got used to that I was good to go. Theo and Lane are amazing characters and I also liked his Aunt Christina. Once I started reading this story I couldn’t put it down except to get some sleep. I look forward to the other books in the series.
I really found the layout of this book interesting. I have not read anything set up like it before. I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it. This is my first book by this author. I loved how the characters were brought to life and you were able to see their vulnerable thoughts. Theo and Lane will definitely keep you turning the pages until the end. I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest opinion.
Hey so this book was an unexpected slice of heavenly delight. Real, engaging characters and a gritty down to earth story filled with loads of drama, just what you want when you are reading a new author for the first time.
JUST OUT OF REACH is a friends to lovers, EX-CON, slow burn romance. This story, I definitely did not imagine it would be so gripping but the more I read the more intuned into the characters journey I became and then I was their cheering section.
The Covington has had an easy life. With everything handed to him, Theo is walking on the side of zero responsibility. One fateful night this all changes and Theo finds himself under house arrest. At first, I did not like Theo. He was arrogant and conceited, very juvenile and almost like a toddler throwing a tantrum and believe me with a 3 and 1 year old I know what they look like. To be fair you felt sympathy for the grief he was clearly not dealing with but that is no excuse for his actions.
Lane is the smart, strong beauty who lives next door who finds herself in a loveless relationship but to terrified to be alone she is putting up with her bf for the sake of it. Enter the hot bodied, tattooed guy who now lives next to her with the confidence and ego to match and Lane finds herself unable to resist. She deserves better than what she has and the confidence boost from Theo only makes her see that more clearly and makes her take action. It is not until Theo begins to interact with Lane that you begin to see his true depth of character and together they bring out the best of each other.
Just when life begins to look up there is always something that comes along to test you strength and willpower. Will Theo and Lane be able to weather this storm?
Great read and am looking forward to my next from this author
I really enjoyed this story and also am still blown away by how much I adore Neal’s writing! She is a fairly new author to me but I am very quickly devouring her back list of books and enjoying every single one I pick up! I love her style, I love her detail and description, I love her sexy times and last but certainly not least I LOVE her characters! I am writing this review as part of her Re-Release of Just Out of Reach and I think it is great she is taking a story she already wrote and adding some TLC.
I thought this story had so many good qualities. Neal gives us a very realistic storyline, struggles, and triumphs and adds in a cute twist where the characters are at times are having a conversation with the reader. I have never seen this done before and I really enjoyed it! It takes characters who already feel relatable and makes them feel like a friend. There were many times I was smiling and laughing and even talking back to my fictional friends.
I LOVED Theo and Lane and their dynamic and chemistry. I loved the friendship they formed that turns into more which turns into love. I felt like they were good for each other in many ways. Theo being the troubled, angry at the world, but also sweet and funny guy. The loss of his father and the events that took him are the things that blind him and he goes from party animal to lockdown in one swift and dangerous mistake. He is being handed a second chance to get things right and the more time that passes the more he learns the importance of being the man his father could be proud of and how that can ultimately help himself and the people he cares for. Lane is this sweet, self-conscious, wishing for love and happy ever after woman who hasn’t been able to find the right someone to make her feel whole. She is going through a breakup with a more than unlikable ex when Theo walks into her life with a flirty and sexy smile. They quickly form a friendship but neither can deny the way they wish for more. With an impromptu lawn service agreement, Theo mows the lawn while Lane provides the food, they begin to spend more time together falling deep, hard, and fast into more!
They are so cute together but also have this magnetic chemistry that lights up the pages. Their banter is funny and their sweet gestures warmed my heart as I read. I love how protective Theo is of Lane and I love how supportive Lane is of Theo. A sweet love affair turns into a complicated mess when Lane’s ex stirs up more trouble than one person should be allowed. Theo will do whatever it takes to keep her safe even at the expense of his freedom.
I really loved how everyone came together to fight for Theo in the end. Lane finally faced the man who wouldn’t let her go in order to save the man she wanted her forever with. With the help of all the amazing characters in this like Aunt Christina and the Commissioner, Julia and Craig, story justice is served and love prevails.
I would defiantly recommend this book and especially Xavier Neal as she is quickly becoming a top read author for me!
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