When Ethan, a sarcastic night owl fresh off late shifts, moves into his new suburban house, he expects peace, quiet, and no neighbors meddling in his life. What he gets instead is Oliver the cheerful early riser next door who thinks muffins can fix anything and lawn-mowing at dawn is a community service.

Their rivalry sparks instantly, fueled by noise complaints, sarcastic fence-side remarks, and the ever-watchful eyes of the neighborhood watch committee convinced they’re secretly more than neighbors. But when a forced partnership in the block’s annual fundraiser pushes them together, sarcasm collides with sunshine in ways neither expected.

Between chaotic bake sales, meddling gossip, and power outages softened by candlelight confessions, Ethan begins to see that Oliver’s relentless optimism hides its own cracks. And Oliver discovers that Ethan’s sharp tongue might just protect a heart more fragile than he lets on.

As fences both literal and emotional start coming down, what began as nuisance turns into something tender, awkwardly hilarious, and surprisingly necessary.

Can two opposites stop waging war long enough to realize they might be exactly what the other needs?

***

Like every tale in Love Out Loud, their journey proves that laughter and love make the best pairing.

Part of the Love Out Loud collection, these standalone romantic comedies spotlight the joy and hilarity of falling in love when life is at its messiest. Whether it’s clashing neighbors, travel gone wrong, reality TV chaos, or the ridiculous rules of modern dating, each story blends banter, heart, and a sweet male/male romance that ends on a high note. Perfect for readers craving comedy with a tender core, this series proves that the loudest laughs can come with the softest hearts.

Liam R. Whitaker

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