If you love unique romance stories with heart and depth, "Over the Fence" is a gem. The book stands out with its clever premise - two lonely neighbors forming a connection through conversations and home-cooked meals exchanged over a backyard fence, before ever seeing each other. It's a slow-burn story rich with emotion, witty banter, and genuine character growth. Kourtney and Nathan's journey deals with real insecurities and past wounds, making their bond both sweet and meaningful. Ideal for fans of contemporary romance seeking something touching, a bit quirky, and ultimately uplifting - especially those who appreciate characters overcoming vulnerability and finding self-worth with a supportive partner.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers find the writing a bit heavy-handed with the characters' trauma and backstories, and a few felt the hero’s protectiveness bordered on too intense for their tastes. The pacing can also feel slow or dragging to those who prefer more action or less inner monologue. If dual POVs are important to you, note that this story is mostly from the male lead's perspective, which may be off-putting if you prefer a more balanced narrative. And for some, the heroine's insecurities or the premise itself might feel repetitive or a little far-fetched.

A heartfelt, original romance that handles vulnerability and healing with care. If you love slow-burn, character-driven love stories with plenty of emotional payoff, this one is a must-try. But if you want breakneck pacing, a lighter tone, or dislike overprotective heroes, it might not be for you.

About:

"Over the Fence" by Melanie Moreland is a romance novel where the characters get to know each other by talking over a fence, eventually leading to falling in love. The book is mostly told from the man's point of view, with one chapter from the female protagonist's perspective. The plot involves the characters communicating effectively when conflicts arise, making the story sweet and refreshing. The writing style is described as adorable, well-written, and engaging, with a focus on the characters' insecurities and their journey towards love.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Kourtney representing emotional vulnerabilities and Nathan providing support, leading to significant personal growth and a heartfelt connection.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is engaging and emotionally resonant, primarily told from the male lead's perspective, while effectively portraying the characters' vulnerabilities and growth.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows the evolving relationship between neighboring characters Kourtney and Nathan, who initially connect over a fence, exploring themes of vulnerability, self-worth, and personal growth.

Setting:

The setting centers on a neighborhood that emphasizes the physical and emotional barriers between the characters, particularly the symbolic fence.

Pacing:

The pacing begins slowly but effectively builds emotional investment, balancing humor with deeper themes to maintain reader engagement.

When I bought the place, the woman presenting the house had pointed out all the “little features” of the space. Her demeanor was enthusiastic as she showed me drawers that shut on their own, cupboards...

Notes:

The story was published in 2015 and remains relevant today.

The romance develops between neighbors Kourtney and Nathan, mostly through conversations over a backyard fence.

Kourtney has insecurities and hides her true self from Nathan in the beginning.

The book explores themes of vulnerability and self-worth.

Much of the initial relationship is established without the characters seeing each other, akin to modern texting and social media interactions.

Kourtney shares home-cooked meals with Nathan across the fence, symbolizing their growing connection.

Nathan is portrayed as a protective and loving character, helping Kourtney confront her past.

The story addresses serious issues like family abuse and self-esteem challenges.

The majority of the narrative is from Nathan's perspective, creating a unique storytelling approach.

Readers have found the romance to be both heartwarming and emotionally charged, often leading to tears and laughter.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for Over the Fence include mentions of family abuse, an assault scene, and emotional trauma, which may be sensitive for some readers.

Has Romance?

Romance is a significant and central theme in Over the Fence, with the relationship between the main characters deeply explored and developed.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Two neighbors-strangers-with one thing in common-they share a fence. But is that the only thing they share?Nathan Fraser lives a solitary life, never letting anyone get too close. It's safer that way.Kourtney Whyte hides from the world and behind her work, too afraid to really live her life to the fullest. Rejection is what she knows best. But one night, the sound of her soft voice and the tantalizing aroma of her evening meal, prove too enticing for Nathan to ignore. So begins their unconventional relationship-talking, learning, texting, and gradually opening up to one another, all over the fence. That is, until the day Nathan braves the high fence to protect Kourtney from her past, and changes everything forever. Can they move forward together, without the buffer of the fence?Or will their pasts prove to be too much of a barrier?

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About the Author:

Melanie Moreland lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of twenty-six-plus years. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them. Known as the quiet one with the big laugh, Melanie works at a local university and for its football team. Her job, while demanding, is rewarding as she cheers on her team to victory. While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, here and abroad, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip. Melanie delights in a good romance story with some bumps along the way, but is a true believer in happily ever after. When her head isn't buried in a book, it is bent over a keyboard, furiously typing away as her characters dictate their creative storylines to her, often with a large glass of wine keeping her company.

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Over the Fence

Melanie Moreland

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