Sometimes a change of address can change your whole life.Declan Ward has been called a lot of things in his life. Drug baby, delinquent and dirty little gay boy just to name a few. As a child in foster care, he heard it all and as an adult he knows better than to worry about what other people think of him. But when he gets into a war of words with his neighbor, he earns a new nickname and this … nickname and this time, it’s one he likes, one he decides he should definitely live up to.
After all, the new guy never actually said what it was the D stands for in his letters, but Declan has a few ideas and would be more than happy to show him.
Brett Coburn is a mature, respectable adult. He doesn’t get into arguments and he doesn’t name call like a kid on the playground. It doesn’t matter that the guy in 403B is the best-looking man Brett has ever laid eyes on. He’s a dickhead and Brett has the letters to prove it. That’s why nobody is more surprised than Brett when their thinly veiled threatening letters take a turn for the fun and flirtatious.
Is it possible they have more in common than they realized? Can they overcome the rough start to their friendship and turn it into something more? Or if they let their relationship become about more than just the “D” are they both bound to end up broken hearted?
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Stayed up reading all night and finished the book in one go
An adorable story of 2 lost souls, strong in character, the determination to stand by their virtues and defeat the past who start out as arguing neighbours, engaging in a war of words by passing rude letters/notes that with time turn quirky and extremely flirty.
When they do meet, the attraction is immediate and the rest of the tale follows them sorting their differences and overcoming their fears. I was hooked on from page 1.
The writing flows well and I loved the side characters (Star and the four legged cuties). I also liked how the author highlighted the intense emotions, them discussing their insecurities and the importance of being open and honest with each other.
Overall, a really well written neighbors in love romance that starts off with an enemies-to-lovers vibe.
Recommend to those looking for a quick read full of fluff (and really cute fur babies).
The D- in 403B by author Jess Bryant is a cute past paced story about a veterinarian and an artist finding their version of love in the oddest way.
I found this story to be cute, sometimes the characters came off as too young, and I found this story to be full of humor.
Declan has nightmares about dogs. (this I had a problem with. It comes off as really an integral part of his psyche and then is pushed away later like it is lighter than what it is) his neighbor has a dog that won’t stop barking. He cannot sleep. He has been through hell and back to be on his own. He is not going to let a dog drag him down. He then decides to leave an angry note on his neighbor’s door about it.
Declan is a very complicated character. He cares for his foster sister as well. He has a lot going on. I felt his character had more depth than Brett’s I felt a stronger connection to Declan.
Bret is a vet. Sometimes he brings his work home. He tries to be a nice guy and not be nosy. But his neighbor is not making it easy. He thinks Declan is beautiful. He wants to talk to him but doesn’t know how to really.
Overall, this is a cute story. I am very glad I got the chance to read it. I would love to read something else by this author in the future as well.
Four Twinkling Stars
4.5 Stars
Talk about being complete opposites. Declan and Brett are like oil and water…or so it seems. Plus they hate each other, or do they?
This was such a great read. It was lighthearted, had the right amount of drama to keep it interesting, witty banter, and hot men. Plus, I adore the enemies to lovers trope.
This is not a slow burn. In fact, it moves at lightning speed, but in a genuinely good way. It doesn’t cheapen the story, and it fits in with their history and personalities. I loved these two men together.
This is the first book I’ve read by Jess Bryant, and I am certain it won’t be the last. Her ability to paint a picture with words, and weave them together to make a story, assures that. Although this is a standalone story, there was a couple who piqued my interest, and I was happy to see they had their own story to read about. After finding that hidden nugget, I’m hopeful to see other crossovers in the future. I’d love to get a future glimpse of the characters somewhere. I know I’m gonna take the opportunity to find out by reading more of her books.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement. ***
Declan Ward a twenty four years old successful artist. Declan grew up in the system and has fear a dogs. Brett Coburn a twenty eight year old veterinarian who is taking care is a dog who barks a lot. They both live in the same apartment building across from each other.
They start leaving notes on each others doors which starts their relationship. The notes are just the best, I loved their sparring. I definitely recommend this book!
I really enjoyed this book, I was very lucky to have won a copy in a Facebook group giveaway and getting a great book was awesome but the best is being introduced to a wonderful new author. I loved the writing style and these characters are amazing. Declan and Brett’s story is a bit of an enemy to lover’s story and is steaming hot, along with wit, with lots of feelings and compassion.
Have you ever judged someone only to find out later that you were totally wrong? After a nasty note left on his door by the neighbor, Brett did just that. He figured that the neighbor was a d-bag, what kind of person doesn’t like dogs?
After being bit by a dog when he was a kid, Declan is terrified of dogs. The new neighbor moving in and having a dog that barks like mad and wakes Declan up with nightmares, puts him in a very bad mood and so he writes a note to the new neighbor to let him know just what his dog does when he is gone. This starts the back and forth of nasty notes, which has them both painting the other in a bad light but when they meet and actually get to know each other a little better, things become clearer and nothing is more clear than they both misjudged the other. But can someone that is terrified of commitment and everything that goes with it take the step to make this more? Will a four legged fur baby be the reason they don’t work out?
This was a cute M/M story. Some drama, some puppy cuteness, and some nice spicy bits; this ended up being a good story. I give it 4 stars.
This for me was a fun and sweet read. I appreciated the low angst and how they resolved their issues. It’s definitely got that insta romance love going on but overall ir was a nice weekend read
4 Cranky Stars
The sexy Vet in 403A has attracted the attention of the D in 403B and not in a good way. Declan leaves a note for Brett telling him to try to keep his dog quiet at night because he is trying to sleep. They basically declare a note war with each other taping them back and forth on each other’s doors until it comes to a head. Declan invites Brett to his art showing he wants to put this war to bed or maybe he just wants to take Brett to bed. Yeah, it’s probably that. What happens next is opening up to each other, Declan’s fear of dogs, and Brett’s flaw of jumping into relationships too fast.
This book was fairly good. You can see the damage Declan’s childhood has done to him, but he is a popular artist who does good for himself. Brett seems to be a pretty good stable guy with his own vet practice. One thing I have noticed from these small town M/M romances is there is always a large number of gay guys in that town. Just something I picked up on with this one as well. I’m not dissing it just an observation. All in all if you like deep conversations, over coming adversity and fears, sexy times and cute letters back and forth then this is for you.
Who’s looking for a book that just makes you feel warm and mushy on the inside? That’s exactly how I felt while reading Jess Bryant’s new M/M release, The D-in 403B.
This story is about an up and coming artist Declan, who’s a bit of a, well, D. And his new neighbor, Brett, the sexy vet. After not being able to sleep because of his new neighbors continually barking dog, Declan sticks a, not very nice note to Brett’s door. Which, in turn, becomes a back and forth banter that will both make you laugh and warm your heart.
I flipping ADORED this book. My heart was squeezing at every turn, and I found myself wanting to hug my kindle to my chest. Everyone is going to love The D-in 403B.
Declan’s got a phobia of dogs, thanks to a traumatic incident in his childhood. So when his neighbor’s dog keeps barking, nightmares happening are inevitable. That his neighbor is hot is inconsequential…leaving notes to each other, Declan and Brett soon become more than just neighbors who seem to dislike each other. But will Declan’s phobia become the thing that breaks them apart?
This is a sweet, witty read. These two men are hilarious together, then sweet, and certainly have the chemistry. But really the best part of this story isn’t even the two leads, it’s Star, Declan’s sister from another mister, whose spot on characterization of a teenager is perfect – snarky, grumpy and wise beyond her years.
Fun Style. This was a mostly light book that took a rare tack, and that is generally fun when executed well – which it absolutely is here. There is a fair amount of drama here, but the most interesting part about this book is absolutely the notes each man leaves on the other’s door. The author even includes them in the text (as well as actually typing them out), so bonus points for going a bit above and beyond creatively. Beyond that, this is a fairly standard MM romance, with all that the genre entails. Maybe a bit more preachy about being explicitly egalitarian in the relationship than many are, though apparently many readers like the genre specifically for this feature of it, so perhaps that would be a bit of a selling point in and of itself. Not one I particularly care about, but eh, it didn’t really detract from the story – which is what I absolutely do care about. All in all, very much recommended.
You will absolutely fall in love with Brett and Declan. Jess has turned me into a fan of M/M stories and this is one of my new favorites. It’s sweet and sexy and you don’t want to put it down. Not to mention hot and steamy!!! One you do not want to miss so add it to your tbr.
I loved Declan and Brett. The amazing thing the author did writing them was that all through the book I was torn between laughing at them, shake them and smother them with hugs and kisses…and on occasions even all three at the same time. The choice to have them communicate with notes was brilliant and an ingenious way to make them know each other. The buildup of feelings between Declan and Brett was slow, fun and perfect, since it lead to a sizzling chemistry and an undeniable connection.
This book had me captivated from the very beginning. It had humor, passion, steamy sex, a moderate amount of angst and a whole lot of heart…absolutely everything I want in a book. Loved it!
First time authors are really doing for me in 2020…
This story was cute from start to finish. Both man had issues that needed to be delt with and I loved the way they helped each other to overcome them in an unconventional way and find the HEA they both deserved. The dynamics of the story was wonderfully written and I was captivated from the start and just couldn’t out it down.
After finishing this I can tell you I’ll be back for Jess Bryant books because it would seem I’ve been missing out.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
RATING 4.5 STARS
The D- in 403B, by Jess Bryant, is a stand alone, M/M romance that will make you smile and win your heart.
Declan Ward is twenty four years old and is a successful artist. You’d never know it, though, when you see the apartment he lives in which isn’t in the greatest part of town. And the public transportation he prefers instead of purchasing a car of his own. Declan grew up in the system. He knows what it’s like to have nothing. The only person he calls family is seventeen year old Star who he thinks of as a little sister.
Brett Coburn is a twenty eight year old veterinarian who recently went through a bad breakup. He now finds himself in a brand new apartment living out of boxes and trying to start over. He is caring for his ex’s Siberian husky, the dog they were raising together but technically didn’t belong to him. The dog has been having difficulty adjusting and has been barking a lot! Little did he know his neighbor has a terrible fear of dogs.
“There was something about this man, something that drew him like a moth to a flame.”
The first time Declan and Brett glimpsed each other across the hall from each other, they were both struck by the sheer beauty of the other man. That inexplicable pull. Only the savage beast of a dog kept Declan as far away as possible. The things he imagined that dog could do with those teeth. With the option of a face to face confrontation over the barking dog out of the question, Declan resorts to writing a note. But, what started out as an exchange of angry words, soon changed, even became flirty. And then they met.
“Everything inside of him yearned for this man, to know him, to be near him, to be with him.”
I loved this book. That really sums up my feelings in those four little words. A relationship that started with hand written notes makes me sigh. These two never even knew what they needed until they met each other. They just understood what the other needed somehow. But every happy ever after has it’s glitches as did this one. And I absolutely loved the way the author helped them to work through them.
This is an adorable must read. Declan and Brett burrowed themselves right into my heart. The addition of Star to the mix made it perfect. I loved the little family they created. I’ve read several of Jess Bryant’s books now and I love the way she tells a story. I can’t wait to see what she is going to do next.
“They’d crossed paths by complete chance but now they were part of each other’s lives.”
Jess Bryant is quickly becoming my go to author when it comes to M/M romance! The D- in 403B was everything I want in a great book, sweet, sexy and humor. I loved Brett the sexy vet and Declan the D- in 403b. These two were complete opposites with the way they grew up but the instant they saw each other, it was like they found their missing piece. This was such a great read I honestly did not want it to end. If you want a great story and an even better way to escape for a while, then I highly recommend you read this one.
Takes love thy neighbor to a whole new level! Debra @janise’s Jivin’ Book Blog
Declan and Brett’s story is ranking right up there with a top read for me. It had a romantic story of old. A true feeling of soul mates finally meeting. Their story pulls at your heartstrings and your breath gets stolen at points due to their passion for each other.
Both men are good guys. Declan with a troubled past and insecurities. Brett with a not so troubled past but insecurities of his own. Their story shows that with the right person in your corner you can work on getting over those insecurities and be patient and kind.
One of my favorite things with this story is that family is what you make it. It is not always about blood. It is finding those key people you love, trust and would do anything for.
What starts out with the D-in 403B ends up with the love of a lifetime.
Brett and Declan started out as enemies leaving notes to each other but those notes became flirty very quickly and swept both men into a whirlwind romance. There were a few bumps in the road but eventually both men got their happily ever after and while I mainly read M/M, I hope Star will get her own happily ever after with maybe the nerdy college guy in 403D.
The D- in 403B by Jess Bryant is a contemporary m/m romance that had a enemies to lovers feel. From angry exchanges to flirty banter, Brett and Declan’s exchanges had me hooked. I felt the anticipation of the characters as the hope for the next exchange. Their connection was fun, sexy and sweet but there was some angst attached to the story. These two fit well for people who seem to be a bit like opposites attracting, but there are thing that threaten their future. These characters are funny, cute and pull the reader into their tale, even the secondary characters seem to call out to the reader – interesting and entertaining, they add to the story. I will definitely be adding this to my reread booklist to revisit when I want a sweet, fun and sexy lovestory to read.
Declan is a man after my own heart! He comes across as gruff, and kind of a di@k, but it’s all to hide his fears and not just his fear of dogs.
Brett is a total sweetheart, but he’s been so hurt that he is afraid to reach out for fear of being wholly rejected. After years of basically being used as a toy, he realizes his desires have changed and grown. He is no longer content being someone’s dirty little secret, he wants more this time.
When Declan finally stops acting like an a$$ he realizes that he’s truly enjoying the letters back and forth between himself and Brett. After that it’s a whirlwind of romance and fun, HOT sexy times, until Brett surprises Declan with something he knows he can’t tolerate. Can Declan and Brett find a compromise before they succeed in ruining what is probably the best thing either of them have ever had?
Jess has hit a 5 homerun with The D in 403B! Showing us again that everyone is going through their own issues, and sometimes all that is needed is a little more compassion and understanding. I am totally in love with Declan and Brett, and Jess makes me fall in love faster with every book she writes!!