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Being Neighborly

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Glass doors make great neighbors…

A broken AC forces Jess Watson outside for a little relief. But when she catches a glimpse of the sexy neighbor directly across from her having—ahem—a private moment, her rising body temperature is no longer due to the weather.

Ryan Branson is amused by the tongue-tied, flustered woman he suspects watched him as he pleasured himself. Intrigued, he sets out to see if her hedonistic desires stop at watching…or if she’d be up for more than loaning him a cup of sugar.

As their sexy encounters escalate, Jess and Ryan put a new spin on getting to know your neighbor. The chemistry between them is strong—but will friends with benefits be enough?

This book is approximately 19,000 words

The Dirty Bits from Carina Press give you what you want, when you want it. Designed to be read in an hour or two, these sex-filled microromances are guaranteed to pack a punch and deliver a happily-ever-after.

One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise: all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!

ebook

First published March 4, 2019

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About the author

Meka James

18 books237 followers
I'm a stay at home mom of 4 kids and have been happily married to my husband for 11 years and counting. I lead a pretty basic and straightforward life and use writing and reading as my escape.

Best places to find me:

Blog:
http://mekasmusings.blogspot.com/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorMekaJames

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/author_meka...


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5 stars
52 (27%)
4 stars
72 (37%)
3 stars
56 (29%)
2 stars
8 (4%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Al *the semi serial series skipper*.
1,659 reviews765 followers
March 4, 2019
***I received this ARC from Netgallery in exchange for an honest review***

A very steamy novella. I tend to avoid novellas as a rule because you don't really have the time to connect with the characters. I didn't have that problem with this one, maybe it was the sex scenes that distracted me but I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Felicia Grossman.
Author 8 books178 followers
December 23, 2019
This is the cutest, sexiest, most playful novella ever! Jess and Ryan: SO HOT! Best meeting every! I adore the progression of their playful "no-strings-attached," relationship gets deeper as the story goes on but never uses its sizzle. Same with the humor, which is fun and laugh-out-loud but still manages never to distract from the heat. I mean, the scenes between the two of them are AMAZING! Everything is adorable about the couple and they are so well drawn and realistic. The epilogue is so sweet and swoon-y. This is a total recommend for a fun, quick, sexy, HAPPY read!
Profile Image for Evie Drae.
Author 4 books140 followers
March 14, 2019
Being Neighborly is a smoldering erotic romance with a contemporary interracial pairing that’ll have you fanning yourself from page one. Literally.



Our leading lady Jess catches her across-the-courtyard neighbor Ryan pleasuring himself when she escapes the heat of her broken AC by lounging on her patio. And this is only where the story begins, folks. It gets hotter, and yet somehow, also sweeter as the plot unfolds.



Simple by necessity, as the Dirty Bits line are all meant to be short, bite-sized steamy romances, Ms. James still manages to intrigue and build characters with depth and realism. While a good chunk of the words are dedicated to sexy times—do you hear me or anyone who loves erotic romance complaining? I think not—the bits dedicated to character development are strong and well-written, leaving the reader fulfilled and satisfied.



I would highly recommend this smexy novella to anyone who likes a little heat—read: smokin’ hot 🔥—and might be hunting a quick, enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Ryan - Sweet Red Reader .
1,417 reviews94 followers
February 11, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed Being Neighborly! The writing was refreshing and real - it was enough to get past my bias when I discovered that it's written in third person POV as opposed to first (which is my preference). The way that Jess and Ryan first encounter each other is intense and sexy; combined with the literal heat of the setting, it's safe to say that the book is HOT! More than that, the characters felt real and relatable. I enjoyed the fact that Jess is a WOC but that is not fetishized. I liked that Ryan was very direct and straightforward about his attraction to her and that it was him that propelled the relationship forward. The book is everything I've come to love and expect from Dirty Bits and I can't wait for more! 4 out of 5 wine glasses.
Profile Image for Marit.
60 reviews4 followers
January 13, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It was fun, sexy, steamy and adorable. The perfect escape that brought a huge smile to my face.
The pacing is spot on, the characters just the right amount of deep for a shorter book and the sex scenes to die for.
I really hope Ms. James keeps writing more of these, it feels perfectly in her lane. Yum. Yum. Yum. Give me more.
Profile Image for Ezi Chinny.
2,609 reviews516 followers
June 5, 2019
I liked this couple but I don't like novellas unless they are part of a series with characters that are developed well.

Jess Watson and Ryan Branson were sexy together. They seemed to have a healthy respect for the other's boundaries and they communicated well. The story would have more of an impact if there was more of a development of who Jess and Ryan are. Clearly they enjoyed a physical relationship but we didn't get to feel an emotional and mental connection either. There really wasn't much other than the sex and I wanted more.

Special Thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC
Profile Image for Alex (HEABookNerd).
1,969 reviews
September 5, 2022
BEING NEIGHBORLY was a spicy and fun read! When Jess moves into a new apartment and accidently sees her neighbor through the window pleasuring himself things get steamy. I loved how flirty and cocky Ryan was and he was so much fun as a hero. Jess was also great and while she's a bit flustered when she first meets Ryan, she quickly finds her nerve and their banter was great. My only complaint is that I wish we had a few more moments of Jess and Ryan together that didn't involve sex so we could see that their growing feelings were about more than just physical attraction. Overall, this was a fast and sexy read and I'm looking forward to reading more by Meka James.
Profile Image for Isabella ~Mikku-chan~.
799 reviews38 followers
February 7, 2019
Full RTC

A few highlights from the book:
- we get a thick heroine presented who's PoC
- hero is her sexy construction worker neighbor who doesn't mind being oggled 😏
- mutual agreement this is just a loose friendship/"neighborly duty" with benefits
- he's taking care she's feeling safe
- the epilogue is the most sweetest thing & I loved how Ryan was displayed over the whole book. Jess is an amazing heroine. 💗

I know the premise might be grey-area for some but the way it was executed in this book was the consent I've needed & I liked their non-verbal communication before their relationship actually went physical +his assurance that she always feels okay, even when he invades her space.

5 out of 5 stars. 😊
Profile Image for sil ♡ the book voyagers.
1,207 reviews2,979 followers
August 14, 2019
Being Neighborly is a very steamy novella. It all starts with masturbating together while watching each other through their windows, each on their own place. So!!! You bet it only gets steamier from there.

Very few problems I've found that bothered me a bit like "not like other girls" trope. Ryan thinking "wow" when Jess eats pizza and mentions how he dislikes girls he has dated that eat only salad and such. It's unnecessary. Also it bothered me how his ex-something was introduced and anything related to that. But from there, this novella was great and fun and you will have a pretty good time reading it. I love how Ryan helps Jess wash her hair and tries his hardest. I love when the heroes realize that oops this is more than just casual and yes I am catching so many feelings!

I will be reading more from this author!
Profile Image for Ritika Chhabra.
517 reviews55 followers
April 17, 2019
Follow Just A Girl High On Books for more reviews.

Thank you Netgalley for a digital copy of this book.

Hm, I'm not really sure why I picked up this novella in the first place. And yes, it is not a novel but a novella - about 19,ooo words in all. Anyway, so as I was saying, I'm not entirely sure why I picked up this book but once I did, I was unable to stop. It is a rather steamy novella and although I didn't particularly feel the "steaminess" in it, it was okay-ish. Like most plotlines featured on nothing more than making out, it starts and ends with "horniness". There isn't much to go on as far as the story is concerned. I mean, there is practically none! There is a feeble attempt at it toward the end - right about when all the steaminess of the book has sort of moved on and we, the readers, need something more - some sort of connection with the characters. A disaster happens then but it feels more forced than it should be. I mean, it didn't surprise me. It was just SO OBVIOUS! The book could have very well gone without that scene and my opinions would have still remained the same.

What I liked, however, was the writing style. James has a way with words, no doubt about that. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing and if I want to go through more of her works, then it is precisely because of that reason. I also liked that Jess, a woman of colour is not shown as weak or helpless. She can perfectly manage on her own and it is Ryan who wants to hang out with her instead. She doesn't have to pretend to be a damsel in distress or she doesn't have to do things to attract him. Instead, it is the other way round! She ignores him and he comes up to her. I totally adored that part of the book. This is what my 3 stars are for!
Profile Image for Jessica Calla.
Author 17 books397 followers
March 9, 2019
Quick, sexy read from Meka James, one of my faves! Jess and Ryan aren’t looking for love—he’s never been a one-chick kind of guy, and she’s new to the neighborhood. But once these two realize they’re compatible in the bedroom, they start working out their issues, physically and emotionally, for a happily ever ending that put a smile on this reader’s face. Sexy, steamy, and short, BEING NEIGHBORLY is an awesome, fun read when you have a few hours to sink into a romance.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews159 followers
February 9, 2019

Ryan's girl is sometimes baffled, "she lowered her hands and gave him a shy half grin. “I meant to say horny... ****, no. What the eff is wrong with me?” She groaned with her eyes shut tight." Ryan just has a way with words, “well, two reasons. One, I’d like to hang out with you, if you’re willing. And two, I’d like to do it in a place that doesn’t make my balls sweat.” I liked this dirty, quick read.
Profile Image for Etta Silby.
66 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2019
I had such a blast reading this neighbors-turned-lovers novella. It was a delightful and quick read that serves as the perfect summer indulgence. I have fallen hard for Meka James's wonderful voice and highly encourage everyone who loves love to check out her work!
Profile Image for Lidy.
Author 2 books83 followers
December 3, 2019
Jess is adorable as hell. And Ryan is hot AF. The romance scenes between them were steamy but my favorite is their first 'official' meeting when Jess introduces herself, instead of saying her name, as .
Profile Image for Turtleberry Turtleberry.
Author 41 books39 followers
March 9, 2019
Wow

From the first few pages I was hooked. Had to toss my phone a few times, only to retrieve it because I had to know what happened next. Jess and Ryan were awesome.
Profile Image for Avid Reader.
1,748 reviews
February 24, 2019
Being Neighborly by Meka James
4 stars
M/F Erotic short story
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

Jess and Ryan are neighbors. While Jess is new to the area, she knows that she needs to get out and find new friends. However, she just hasn't found the time. When Jess sees her neighbor through her sliding glass door, she can't help but stare.

Ryan has never really seen his new neighbor. In fact, he's so busy that he rarely sees his neighbors. But, when the urge hits him, he takes it upon himself to relieve his stress by taking himself in hand. What he doesn't expect is to see his neighbor watching in.

Ryan and Jess have great chemistry and they have a whirlwind "relationship". But, when the chips are down and feelings come in to play, both have to be willing to step up and take that chance. Will Ryan trust Jess and can Jess see past a miscommunication?

It's a quick read with an even quicker build up to a relationship. But, it was enjoyable.
Profile Image for Ella Stainton.
Author 3 books55 followers
February 9, 2019
Sexy, sexy, sexy. Jess and Ryan are hot and flirty and are presented as two people confident enough to have a fling without it meaning anything more. Until it does. Handled with aplomb and *oh so very steamy*! Ms. James is the master of writing consensual sex hot enough that steam rises from the proverbial page. Can't wait for more!
Profile Image for Seema Rao.
Author 2 books53 followers
February 21, 2019
Wham ~ Bam ~ Thank you, Maam

tl;dr: Neighbors get it on.

There is something to be said for honesty. The Dirty Bits series gives you exactly what you want, the sex, and lots of it. Writing these books must be challenging, as character build up has to be done fast (i guess it's hard). In this stand-alone, a neighbor gets caught watching the guy across the way enjoy some alone time. Quickly, they start a mutually-enjoyable relationship. Their chemistry expands past the bedroom. Now, I want to be clear--this book is not about foreplay and character build-up. The strength of this book is that the sex is real and well-written, and yet, through some masterful writing, you actually care about the characters. The book does have the insta-love trope, but I willingly suspend disbelief in this book. After all, this is a book where you are pretty satisfied before the happy ending.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Seema Rao Write : Instagram| Blog| Twitter|
Profile Image for Sheena ☆ Book Sheenanigans .
1,442 reviews429 followers
July 27, 2019

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5 Stars)
Title: Being Neighborly
Author(s): Meka James
Character(s):
Jess Watson: Black, Brown Eyed
Ryan Branson: Brown, Gray Eyed
Setting: Phoenix, Arizona
Tag(s): Romance, Contemporary
Content Rating: R
POV: Alternates between Heroine/Hero
Smexy Level: Hot
Favorite Quote(s):
― “Not feelings, Jesslyn. Just sex.”
Overall Opinion:
Erotica filled with instant love, that’s pretty much sums up this quick read. I found it really hard to believe so many reviewers rated this series so high considering the mediocre content, characters, and lack-worthy sex scenes. Unfortunately I’ve read better and this just didn’t tickle my fancy. The only plus side to this is that I was able to get this done and over with in ½ hour. Overall, “Being Neighborly” has nothing worth mentioning.
Profile Image for Lily Michaels.
Author 5 books67 followers
March 3, 2019
Another Sunday, another book review!

This week I’m going to share the tasty little erotic romance novella Being Neighborly by Meka James.

Being Neighborly starts with our female lead, Jess, discovering that one of the neighbors in the Arizona townhome complex she just moved to is not only a hot as hades well-built man, but he’s slightly forgetful. By that I mean our darling Ryan has entered his living room after taking a shower without making a pit stop to grab clothes. A fact Jess enjoys.

Her enjoyment gets multiplied when Ryan starts masturbating in front of the window.

Yes folks, Ms. James has created the most deliciously sexy opening to this steamy book with a mutual self-pleasuring scene in a voyeuristic setting. I have to admit, that’s a scenario I’d never read in a book before but I adored every moment of it.

After their little interlude in the dark, Jess is embarrassed… but it’s nothing compared to the all-consuming mortification that she experiences when she runs into her late night pleasure partner at the community mail boxes. A brief, awkward interaction follows Jess discloses that her AC is broken, a huge issues in the oppressive Sedona heat. Our clever little Ryan jumps at the chance to play knight in shining armor as well as get Jess to spend a little more time with him by offering his home (and AC!) until the maintenance man is able to fix her unit.

This would be the point in the program where you run your greedy little hands together because this is the open frickin door to lots of delicious little hook-ups between our leafs. And if y’all have ever read a slow, steamy, detailed sex scene by the fabulous Ms. James you know just how much of a delight lots of these moments are as a reader!

Being Neighborly is an interracial erotic romance novella that’s perfect to devour over a lunch break… or just before bed if you need a little scene setting for some sweet dreams.
Profile Image for JenReadsRomance.
298 reviews1,563 followers
November 30, 2019
I loved this book! I thought it was super hot and the chemistry was off the charts.
Profile Image for Harper Miller.
Author 6 books438 followers
November 30, 2019
Dirty Bits indeed. Being Neighborly is a super hot novella! I absolutely loved Ryan and Jess. I’m always down for couples who engage in mutual masturbation on the page. I also enjoy when authors sprinkle cultural aspects into stories that blatantly identify the heroine as a woman of color. Ryan washing Jess’s hair was the perfect amount of tenderness I needed. This was my first time reading Meka James, but I can guarantee it won’t be my last.

Profile Image for Sofia Lazaridou.
2,775 reviews138 followers
March 5, 2019
Being Neighborly is a short, but enjoyable story by Meka James. Yes there is insta-lust/love and the events of this book take place in 1 or 2 weeks, but I liked the story. For one I knew what to expect since I am familiar with the Dirty Bits collection and two there was something about this story that just makes me happy when I think of the book. The flow and the pace of the story were good and the main characters had great chemistry. I believe that the author did a great job with this book and Being Neighborly is a great way to take off your mind from reality for an hour or half. The story is short and sexy.
Profile Image for iamGamz.
1,520 reviews46 followers
March 8, 2019
My very first “Dirty Bits” read from Harlequin and my very first Meka James read.

A quick, steamy read about neighbors with benefits. It was a hot and fun read. The story may have been short but the author gave the characters enough personality that you connected with them, and liked them.

This was fun to read. I chuckled all through it.
Profile Image for Suzanne.
1,010 reviews37 followers
March 9, 2019
This was hot and fun and sweet. If you're at all into voyeurism, this is a must-read. It's also sold me on Meka James and I'm looking forward to her future releases!
2,667 reviews
March 4, 2019
Jess and Ryan has a very believable scandalous event that can lead to a possible HEA. People do various thing for relieving pressure from their body when it’s to darn hot. Especially thinking they’re alone to enjoy when they’re not. This was an enjoyable short story about living too close to each other and open blinds. Meeting new people and eventually making new friends that lead to very believable situations between neighbors and friends. In this situation, a little voyeurism never hurt anyone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amanda.
574 reviews62 followers
September 7, 2019
This novella was filthy and it starts with a fantastic voyeurism scene which is A+ my shit. I enjoyed this with a few caveats. As Sil mentioned in her review, Ryan does treat Jess a bit Not Like Other Girls, especially when a side character shows up (wasn’t a fan of her depiction). And this moves from like 99% sex to more serious and then boom it’s over minus a sweet epilogue. As an erotic story this was great, but wanted some more! I’ll be checking out more of her books though :)
Profile Image for (the.darkandgritty.reader).
1,027 reviews32 followers
March 13, 2019
5/5 - This was a tight paced sexy erotic romance.

The story had backbone. The Hero and heroine were likable and sexy. Don’t get me wrong this is an erotic romance; the sexy times were legit. Honestly, I’d like to read more about this couple. The novella ends as a HFN and I’m not mad about the ending.

- interracial couple
- strangers
- neighbors
- friends with benefits
- misunderstanding
- minimal angst
- good match
- SMOKIN’ HOT

I received a copy of this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.

This novella will be available March 4, 2019
Profile Image for Melissa Verseman.
850 reviews18 followers
March 4, 2019
So this was the first time reading this authors work and I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading more.This was a great story .Has a great storyline and great characters to read about.Plus was steamy hot to.Once I started reading it , I couldn't put it down til I finished it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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