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This is the story before everything...

Elizabeth knows what’s expected of her, perfection. She’s the daughter of an Earl and expected to marry well, say and do the right things with a smile on her face when inside she’s dying for a chance to escape. Thanks to an inheritance her godmother left her years ago, her chance will come with her next birthday. Her hopes of escape abruptly end when Robert, her childhood nemesis that she hasn't seen in over fourteen years, comes back into her life and does everything he can to drive her out of her mind even as he steals her heart.

He hated her.

At least, he tried to hate her, but it was so damn difficult to hate someone that he couldn't live without. He tried to ignore her, tried to focus on anything but her, but nothing worked. Somehow she made her way into his heart and started to make him want things that he never thought possible, made him smile and laugh even while she drove him out of his mind and started a legacy by turning him into...

A Bradford.

284 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 30, 2013

About the author

R.L. Mathewson

67 books15.4k followers
New York Times Bestselling author, R.L. Mathewson was born in Massachusetts. She’s known for her humor, quick wit and ability to write relatable characters. She currently has several paranormal and contemporary romance series published including the Neighbor from Hell series.

Growing up, R.L. Mathewson was a painfully shy bookworm. After high school she attended college, worked as a bellhop, fast food cook, and a museum worker until she decided to take an EMT course. Working as an EMT helped her get over her shyness as well as left her with some fond memories and some rather disturbing ones that from time to time show up in one of her books.

Today, R.L. Mathewson is the single mother of two children that keep her on her toes. She has a bit of a romance novel addiction as well as a major hot chocolate addiction and on a perfect day, she combines the two.

In 2019/2020, R.L. Mathewson will be publishing Devastated, the first Anger Management novel, Tall, Dark & Furious, the 6th installment to the Pyte/Sentinel series, Irresistible, the long anticipated novel for the Neighbor from Hell Series as well as many more books throughout the year, paranormals, contemporaries, and YAs.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,761 reviews
Profile Image for ~IreneOust~.
509 reviews776 followers
November 3, 2013

Well, color me happy because that's one of very few highly anticipated sequels this year that didn't let me down ...

To say I enjoyed this story immensely would be an understatement. If you are a fan of the series, you'll love this book! It's a little different from the previous three but absolutely fantastic in it's own way!

In the end, it left me feeling like this

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and that's a GREAT feeling!!



I think the following lyrics from PINK's "True Love" sum up this series to a tee:



"Sometimes I hate every single stupid word you say
Sometimes I wanna slap you in your whole face
There's no one quite like you
You push all my buttons down
I know life would suck without you

At the same time, I wanna hug you
I wanna wrap my hands around your neck
You're an asshole but I love you
And you make me so mad I ask myself
Why I'm still here, or where could I go
You're the only love I've ever known
But I hate you, I really hate you,
So much, I think it must be

True love ..."



Thank you for another awesome BR, Crystal, Shannon & Mo! Always a pleasure, ladies :) Can't wait to do it again!!


Cheers!
Profile Image for Mo.
1,389 reviews2 followers
November 2, 2013


This book was wonderful. Saw it was a Historical and was wondering if the author could cross over and do a Historical. It has been done and done well. Actually some of the Contemporary authors should stick solely with Historicals … won’t mention any names. I am usually a sucker for books where the Hero and Heroine do not like each other in the beginning. And these two absolutely did not LIKE each other. Of course all that changed and we had a great little adventure with Robert and Elizabeth on their road to HEA!

T


R


U


C


E

Profile Image for Masuma.
169 reviews1 follower
November 3, 2013
OMG OMG OMG!!!
I nearly fell down the stairs when i saw this!!
I've said it one too many times, and i'll say it again.. I LOVE THE BRADFORD BOYS!
Can. Not. Wait.
Profile Image for k.
113 reviews282 followers
December 31, 2013
5 HISTORIC BRADFORD STARS!



Truce was an amazing story about one of the original Bradford men and the woman who caused him to become the type of Bradford that we've read about in the previous installments. A Neighbor From Hell series has always been one of my favorites, and I couldn't wait to immerse myself in the historical setting of the Bradfords! I was a little concerned that I wouldn't enjoy them as much, but R.L. Mathewson didn't disappointment, and I think everyone will enjoy this novel, whether you're a historical romance fan or not!

“Once upon a time…”
“Are you fucking kidding me?” Jason asked, shaking his head in disgust.
“What?” Jarred demanded, taking a bite from his sandwich roll.
“You’re really going to start it like that?” Jason demanded, sharing a look of disgust with Trevor, who was inching his hand toward the platter of sandwich rolls.
…“Ow!”
“Those are my sandwich rolls!”
“Dad,” Jason said, not bothering to look up as he prompted his father to get on with it.
“Oh, right,” his father said, pointedly clearing his throat. “Once upon a time…….


The book started off in the present with Jason, our hero from a previous installment, making a homemade necklace for his wife on their fifth anniversary per the tradition of Robert Bradford; his great great great great grandfather! Jason is being told the love story of Elizabeth Stanton & Robert Bradford, and how the tradition of the homemade necklace began...

Meet Elizabeth Stanton. Elizabeth is being dragged from ball to ball and introduced to London's eligible bachelors so that she may find a suitable husband. Elizabeth does not want to marry though, she just wants to be left in peace so that she may one day inherit her fortune and be her own woman. At least she thinks this is what she wants until she meets the mysterious man in the orangery.



"Sometimes he would disappear all day and night only to come back to her like a sailor to a siren and curl up with her. He needed her more than his next breath, and he hated her for it. He hated this power she had over him."


Both desperate for a reprieve at a ball, they both escape to the orangery outside. Not knowing who the other is, they engage in a heartfelt conversation which turns into unbidden passion. Neither wanting to be married, they agree to keep the tryst an unforgettable experience and part ways...little do they know their pasts are coming back to haunt them, for these two strangers are actually childhood enemies who absolutely hate each other...

Thrust under the same roof after a tragic occurrence Elizabeth and Robert's childhood battles resume. Both of them refuse to admit that they have feelings for each other, for doing so would be loosing the battle..

"He cursed himself for quickening his step to catch up with the overly cheerful woman that he hated, but couldn't stand to be away from."


This novel was absolutely hilarious! I loved watching the back and forth pranks and banter between Elizabeth and Robert. The feelings that they try to hide from the other was truly endearing to read and I fell in love with them. Their feelings that started in the orangery are growing stronger and seem to be making Robert more and more possessive of Elizabeth. They had amazing chemistry and their love/hate relationship was the highlight of the book. Despite their attraction, they also absolutely hate each other and can't reconcile their feelings. Maybe it's time they called a truce....

"The one woman in the world that he shouldn't want was the one woman he was discovering that he couldn't live without" ~Robert




Robert and Elizabeth's relationship took quite a few surprising turns as they battle their feelings, desire, hate and love for each other. They were both incredibly stubborn, yet lovable at the same time. The passion of the novel was scorching! I mean scorching. I loved one scene in particular(office scene). Whew! Elizabeth was an amazing heroine, strong and lovable, and Robert was the swoon worthy alpha male that we all love in our Bradford men. I loved every minute of this story and I hope that everyone will give this fantastic novel a chance!

Just a note: This is a historical romance novel, but the historical aspects are so light that it feels almost that you are reading a contemporary novel. Again, if you aren't a fan of historical, I have a feeling you'll be a fan of this!



“Then perhaps it’s time that we called a truce?”
Profile Image for Jennifer Kyle.
2,509 reviews5,352 followers
November 2, 2013

I JUST descriptionTHOSE BRADFORD MEN...

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WHAT A FUN READ!!!!


I have never read a historical romance before so I don’t really know how this story stacks up against others but for a Neighbor from Hell book this was TERRIFIC!

This book had it all! Banter and humor, a great romance filled with hot sex and one swoon worthy yet hungry Bradford!

I truly enjoyed Elizabeth and Robert’s story. I loved how our present day Bradford’s were incorporated in sharing the first Bradford’s tale.

Elizabeth and Robert hated each other as children. They played pranks and made each other’s lives miserable.

When it is time for Elizabeth to be married and receive her inheritance, her family traipses her from ball to ball meanwhile Robert Bradford (spare) has been coerced to attend the same functions with his brother James (first born and heir). Elizabeth and Robert have not seen each other since their last encounter years ago that left both of them pretty scarred and pissed off.

Elizabeth and Robert were wonderful together and I strongly feel that if you enjoyed the previous books in this series you will definitely love this one!

"I nearly died!"
"Because you were forced to miss breakfast a few times?"


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"I love you more, minx," he said against her lips.
"Probably," she easily agreed as she wrapped her arms around his neck and moved to deepen their kiss.


Overall, a great read that leaves a huge smile on your face!
Profile Image for UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish.
1,097 reviews1,699 followers
November 14, 2015

This series is all kinds of fun and the heroes are all kinds of yummy! Great dialogue and witty banter make these stories laugh out loud awesome. They are romantic, sexy and, start to finish… Nothing but good times!

It's hard for me to choose a favorite of the series, but of the first 4 - which is all I've read so far - this one might just be it. Historical romance is one of my favorite genres so to get a historical 'where it all began' glimpse of the contemporary Bradford family was right up my alley!!

If you're like me - a fan of light, steamy, romantic stories, be sure to check out this series – and be prepared for lots of tongue-in-cheek, silly humor!!
Profile Image for • Lisa •.
561 reviews1,576 followers
November 16, 2013
4 BRADFORD STARS.

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This adorable, long awaited story most certainly did not disappoint. I was excited to add this to my kindle collection and happily add this book to my 'addicted to this author' shelf. RL Matthewsons neighbour from hell series is a complete favourite for me, the Bradford boys have become something of an addiction and I was most excited to grab this historical point of view of the family that I love.

What's it all about?
Elizabeth and Robert Bradford have been childhood enemies since childhood. Nothing was out of bounds for the child hood tricks and pranks between them but when the rivalry goes a step too far the duo separate ways and don't see each other until one fateful night when there lives cross paths. Nothing could prepare these adults for how they would feel about each other when they are reconnected. And so a turbulent, amusing and misunderstood relationship starts but will they allow themselves to be torn apart by their heated and hateful past? Find out the history of the Bradford male legacy in this amusing but touching tale of love from time gone by.
description"/
What did I love?
The author did a great job of convincing me of the historical take on this series. It has a great mix of amusing, heartfelt and romantic that really pulled on my heart strings and once again the author made me fall in love with her fabulous characters. The heroine, Elizabeth was completely loveable, she is independent, strong, stubborn and beautiful. I could not get enough of her devious ways and her character was completely consistent throughout the book. This author always writes complete sweetheart characters for her male Bradford men and Elizabeth fits that bill to perfection. Robert Bradford was charming, debonair and ever so flighty frisky. He had the perfect personality combination of gentleman and daring but what made his character endearing for me was when his lust made him loose control. Yes this connection was completely believable and enchanting and I could not have asked for more between these once sworn enemies. The book had just the right amount of drama, it was giving with the sexy and generous with its romance. Did I like this book? Yes. Do I think every girl deserves a Bradford? Yes. Would I recommend this series? Do you even have to ask.

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Why not five?
This Bradford boy is unfortunately not my favourite, but don't be misunderstood there's not much this author can do wrong in my eyes, but if I was simply to compare it to the others stories in this series it didn't give me that full out wow-I-love-this-book-with-all-my-heart feeling. I think in essence I prefer a present day tale and I can't wait for another one in this series.

Final thoughts ...
For those of you that have not started this series, I urge you to stop what you are doing and get one clicking. If you like your romance to feature an enemies to lovers theme and you like sexy, romantic and funny then you must not miss out. As for this book RL Matthewson has delivered a historical twist to this already gorgeous series. Go grab it readers, enjoy ... Kisses.
Profile Image for ♡Karlyn P♡.
604 reviews1,265 followers
August 20, 2016

5 big YUMMY stars!

I devoured this like a Bradford at an all-you-can-eat buffet, and now I am starving for more!



I love this series and can't get enough of these Bradford men, but this was an especially fun look at the history of the Bradfords! The tension and heat between Elizabeth and Robert was thick, and the games afoot between them were non stop laughs.

On top of a hot and fun romance set in the early 1800's London, I loved how we learn why the Bradfords have such huge appetites. And we discover a tradition that has been passed down through the Bradford men every generation since.

We also get a sneak peak at Jason and Trevor, and see what the men and their beautiful families are up to these days.

I hope this series never ends! And I would love another historical or two, maybe set in another generation in time. Can you imagine Caveman Bradfords? or Viking Bradfords? or Pirate Bradfords? or Bootlegger Brandfords? Oh, Mathewson could have a lot of fun with this series.

**Sigh**. I loved it.
Profile Image for Crystal~BIG book addict~.
279 reviews216 followers
November 3, 2013
5 Make Me Happy Stars


I can't begin to explain how much I loved this book. It was so nice to read a lighthearted, funny, romantic book. This is a historical romance but it really doesn't read like one. It was very enjoyable to read.




We get to go back in time and meet the beginning of the Bradford men and find out where their obsession with food came from and their ability to love fiercely.





Robert and Elizabeth were childhood enemies. They were constantly pulling pranks on each other, sometimes just plain mean to each other. After they humiliate each other in front of their family and friends when they were kids, they avoided each other like the plague.

Almost 15 years later, they meet again at a ball where neither of them wants to be. They had both escaped to find some solitude in the orangery where Robert finds Elizabeth reading a book. They don't recognize each other. After some very pleasant conversation the sparks fly, in a good way of course. But these happy feelings of love come to an abrupt halt when they finally figure it out.

Through unfortunate circumstances, they were forced to tolerate each other's company in the same household, and they just always seemed to push each other's buttons.


"Too far? Oh dear." She jumped to her feet and ducked just as he reached for her. For some reason she always went too far where he was concerned. It really couldn't be helped though, it was simply too much fun to pass up.


You know the saying that there is a fine line between love and hate? Well, these two definitely toed this line. It was so much fun to watch as their feelings developed and the humor and banter that they shared.





I absolutely adored this book. It will definitely be going on my favorites shelf to be read again along with the other Bradford clan.

Read the book people!!

Buddy Read with some fabulous ladies, Irene, Shannon and Mo.

Link for our BR: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Profile Image for Favo De MeL.
7 reviews37 followers
Want to read
May 26, 2013
WHAT???

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Another book from one of my favorite series??? OMG!! More Bradford? Give it to me!

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Profile Image for * Meli Mel *.
856 reviews676 followers
November 11, 2013



♥♥♥ 4.5 Wonderful Bradford Historical Stars ♥♥♥



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'This was bad. This was very bad(...) His body yearned for her in every possible way. He enjoyed her quick wit and sharp tongue. She could be funny and he knew that she was kind. This was beyond horrible. He hated the woman. She was his enemy.

His enemy.'

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●



Jason Bradford is celebrating his fifth wedding anniversary with his wife Haley. In order to do that, he must make her a necklace that has become a Bradford tradition. Jason's father tells the tale of how it all began.



● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

'He couldn't stand this. The one woman in the world that he shouldn't want was the one woman he was discovering that he couldn't live without. She was becoming an obsession for him and he was powerless to do anything about it.'

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Elizabeth and Robert Bradford have disliked each other since they were kids. They use to tease and prank each other constantly. Things went too far and haven't seen or talked to each other for around fifteen years. Now Elizabeth is woman how is forced to attend balls in order to find herself a husband with a title. She doesn't want to get into a loveless marriage that is purely convenience. She wants her independence and to help those in need, not to be someone's property.



●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

'He never allowed anyone to get close to him, didn't trust anyone. He couldn't understand how she consumed his every wish and desire. He wanted to hold her all night and keep her safe from harm, something that he'd never wanted to do with another woman.'

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

While attending a ball, Elizabeth and Robert finally meet again. They both escape the party and find each other in secluded place. They tell each other what they desire in life and share an intimate moment that will changes theirs lives completely. All the while, not knowing the others true identity. When they find out who they really are, they are stunned. All that hate resurfaces, and they vow that the passionate moment that they had shared will never happen again. But Robert soon finds he must stay at Elizabeth's family home. He can't escape her.



●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

"When was I near death?" he asked in stunned disbelief..."How could you forget all those times that I could barely move? When I struggled to find the will to live(...) Did my struggle for survival mean nothing to you?" he demanded.

"Do you mean those few times when you had a touch of seasickness?" she asked.

"A
touch?" he repeated in disbelief. "I nearly died!"

"Because you were forced to miss breakfast a few times?"

"It was hell! Pure hell!"

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

Robert Bradford is just as hilarious as his great, great, great, great...etc. grandsons. We finally find out where they all get their outrageous appetites come from. As well as their alpha like ways. He has come along way since his, 'Robert Lemonade' days. But he still loves teasing Elizabeth. He can't help it, he enjoys seeing her riled up. I couldn't stop laughing at how Robert would exaggerate things, or how childish he was. Sound familiar? Yeah, and he eats crazy amounts of food. I was glued to this book just waiting to read the stuff that they would do to each other and their awesome banter that was highly entertaining.



●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

'She was so damn beautiful, so kind and sweet. She made him so damn happy. He couldn't imagine going a single day without seeing her, holding her, kissing her or showing her just how much he loved her.'

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Robert's oldest brother James is looking for a new wife and he has his sights on Elizabeth. Elizabeth use to have a huge crush on James when she was a child, but now she doesn't feel the same way for him. Robert will try to do whatever he can to keep them apart. Again, I laughed at the stunts Robert would pull. I also LOVED that we got his POV because it just made it that much better. I liked the romance and chemistry between Robert and Elizabeth. I couldn't get enough of them together. They finally call a truce and try to get along with each other. There were some very sweet moments and some great steamy moments as well. Elizabeth truly was a minx. The things she did to Robert, and he wasn't complaining.



●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

"I love you, Robert," Elizabeth whispered as she pulled herself up just enough so that she could brush her trembling lips against his.

"I love you more, minx," he said against her lips.

"Probably," she easily agreed as she wrapped her arms around his neck and moved to deepen their kiss.

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I have read and enjoyed many historical romance books in the past. This one was just as great. It was wonderfully written. I became addicted to the story and the characters. I didn't want to put this down. It had the humour from the other books that I thoroughly enjoyed. The ending was super sweet and had me smiling really big. I sighed and laughed reading this book. It was an awesome short light read. I recommend this one to everyone, don't let the historical aspect of this book dissuade you from reading it. It was really great, so, if this genre isn't your thing I think you should just give it a try.

Profile Image for Lindsay.
2,225 reviews508 followers
November 2, 2013
OH. MY. GOD. That was



Seriously, this book totally deserves a



After the previous NFH book (Checkmate), I was worried. It didn't live up to the previous books, it was just a 3.5-4 star read for me. But this one was the very best of what makes this series so great. I loved every moment of Elizabeth & Robert's story. I couldn't put it down. I should have been reading a book I have to review but once this was released, I was drawn to it. I had to read it. No other book would do. No other books existed for me.



And I wasn't the least bit disappointed.


Yes, this is a historical book, but it's more a historical "lite" book. It's set in the past, and there are some historical words but it doesn't have complicated histroical language. And at times it was possible to forget that it was historical. So if the fact that is is historical worries you, don't let it. You seriously need to pick up this book, clear your schedule and read this book! It's well worth it and you won't regret it.
Profile Image for Cristina.
342 reviews332 followers
July 13, 2015
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Yes ladies :D Consider my Historical Romance cherry pooped :P This was my first romance novel that was set in a different century then ours and I loved it :D

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In other circumstances and with my current rating system (that has changed over the years) I wouldn't have rated this book above 4 stars but considering the fact that it's my first book in this genre and that I truly loved it I couldn't give it any less then 5 stars :D

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If you're a fan of this series don't let the fact that the action is set sometime in the 1800's deter you and read it because it's the best book in this series so far :D

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Profile Image for S.
388 reviews91 followers
May 3, 2015
4.5 fun stars!

description

She was torn between kicking him or kissing him.

Fun, charming, easygoing, engaging and lovely. I knew most of friends loved this one - and I'm glad to say I did too! Elizabeth and Robert hate each other with a vegnance. Passion and hate - it's a fine line and sparks fly in this hate-to-love tale.

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They meet as stangers without a clue that they hate each other! Robert has not forgiven her for revealing to all that he wet his pants when he was young. Elizabeth has not forgiven him for teasing her about being in love with his brother. But they meet as strangers and don't recognize each other.
She had a plan for her life and it most certainly didn't involve making love to a man she didn't know in a well-lit orangery where anyone could have stumbled on them.

You will fall in love with these loving pranksters! It is not exactly accurate or super realistic as historical romance goes - but it is charming nonetheless. It is the perfect introduction if you are new to this genre, and if you are an addict as myself, it is a fun interruption from the usual troupes.

I cried, I laughed and I stayed up way too late. My only complaint was that I wished they would have talked more and had a tiny more depth. But as entertainment goes - this is awesome! And it is a fun set-up, starting with Jason's father telling him about the five-year anniversary tradition.

“Once upon a time…”
“Are you fucking kidding me?” Jason asked, shaking his head in disgust.
“What?” Jarred demanded, taking a bite from his sandwich roll.
“You’re really going to start it like that?” Jason demanded, sharing a look of disgust with Trevor, who was inching his hand toward the platter of sandwich rolls.
...“Ow!”
“Those are my sandwich rolls!”
“Dad,” Jason said, not bothering to look up as he prompted his father to get on with it.
“Oh, right,” his father said, pointedly clearing his throat. “Once upon a time...
Profile Image for *J* Too Many Books Too Little Time.
1,921 reviews3,718 followers
June 28, 2014
Well....I put this one off and put this one off. The historic in the title scared me away, as historical is not my genre of choice. But I can honestly say, aside from some of the language and a few details....this one did not feel historical at all.



True to Neighbor from Hell fashion, Truce brought the humor and steam that's so popular from the other books in the series. It made for an enjoyable and entertaining read.

In a way Truce sets up the Bradford family. We meet the first Bradford Robert, where the freakish eating habits began.



Robert and Elizabeth were childhood enemies. They teased and tormented each other growing up and haven't seen or spoken to each other in over 10 years. It's safe to say, they hate each other.

Both Robert and Elizabeth's families are trying to marry them off. In an effort to escape the latest "ball" that they've been separately dragged to, Robert and Elizabeth find themselves alone in the orangery. Only they have no idea who the other one is.

If they did, Elizabeth surely wouldn't have given Robert her virginity. And Robert wouldn't have bed the woman that ruined his life growing up.



Once they discover their mistake, Robert and Elizabeth return to their childhood ways.

I really enjoyed the love/hate thing between Robert and Elizabeth. Their bickering and banter made me laugh. Despite how they felt about each other in the past, there was no doubt the night they spent together meant something.

A truce is definitely in order if these two want to survive each other.

Really enjoyed this one. It was fun, it was funny, it was HOT. Perfect lazy Saturday afternoon read!
August 27, 2016
So glad I finally made it back to this series /author. I love when a hero is a jerk yet completely turns around and becomes totally amazing. The humor wasn't as present in this one as it was in the previous NFH books but I still really loved it. Elizabeth and Robert really took enemies to lovers to a whole different level. What I really loved was how we got to see so far into their marriage. The crazy " appetite" of the Bradford clan started a long time ago and I loved that we got to see it's beginning here.
Moving on to the next one.


Totally Safe.
November 2, 2013
4.5 Stars

This was so good! I'd only read the first book in this series and I wasn't a huge fan so I didn't have very high expectations for this one. However, I couldn't put it down. I loved Robert and Elizabeth and the storyline of them being childhood enemies! I just finished a very long angst-ridden story and this book was exactly what I needed!
Profile Image for Jen .
807 reviews610 followers
November 2, 2013
Robert Bradford was willingly parting with food. Either the world was coming to an end or he was serious about making a fresh start.

Yep, the Bradfords and all of their hilarious quirks are back! I'm a huge fan of this series and Truce: A Historic Neighbor from Hell didn't disappoint. For all of you that love the series but aren't huge fans of historicals, don't you worry your pretty heads. This book is written like any other Neighbor from Hell book with the exception of the occasional ton and magistrate thrown in for good measure. Lisa Kleypas this aint, but I wouldn't want it any other way.
Profile Image for Barbara.
433 reviews86 followers
March 7, 2014
I’m a huge fan of R.L. Mathewson’s Neighbor from Hell series, so I already had this on my TRL, for a long time...but didn´t had time yet to read it! Finally I did and I´m so happy I read it ....

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BRADFORD MEN...WOW!! Just wanna lick them, right now... especially Robert!
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Her stories are hilarious and entertaining. The characters are awesome and will win you over with their witty personalities. This one is historical but doesn´t skip from being good as well...

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Wonderful!!!
Profile Image for SY.
164 reviews19 followers
November 19, 2013
I was so excited when I found out that R.L. Mathewson wrote a historical and snapped it up and started reading ASAP. I simply love the Neighbors From Hell Series and was girding myself for an enjoyable ride. The beginning was great but somewhere around 15% I was getting, disappointed.

What was charming (if silly) in her contemporaries did not work for me in a historical. I'm no stickler for historical rules but this author did minimal to no work on any research.There were things being done that would made me cringe in a contemporary so it made my jaws drop in a historical.

First, the heroine Elizabeth is Unlikeable. The things she does to the hero, her family, and herself were insanely selfish and unthought out. The way she lost her virginity would be somewhat brazen in a modern setting, but in regency time for someone of her station was down right whorish. I'm staunchly against slut shaming but unless this is a alternate reality historical you have to abide by basic rules and public sex is one of them.

Robert was meh. He wasn't romantic, funny, charming or even interesting. I want a hero whom I can fall in love with but other than his Bradford Appetite he bombed as a character. There was a moment where he's supposed to be caring but I don't consider 'taking care of your sick wife' a moving sentiment. You're supposed to take care of her, that's not a romantic gesture.

The steamy sex scenes and couple cute moments gave this a star and a half but overall this was a dud.
1 review
Want to read
May 26, 2013
My mouth dropped and my eyes widened when I saw this!!! *__* I DIDNT EXPECT THIS AT ALL..I CAN'T WAIT! Please please please do NOT end this series. I love how it makes me laugh and makes my day when I read.
Profile Image for Seon Ji (Dawn).
1,047 reviews254 followers
February 21, 2021
I am the unpopular reviewer here. Sorry people. I just can't understand all the high ratings. First I would like to say that the summary listed about the book was highly deceiving and inaccurate as well as the categories this book is listed under. I found no humor and would not consider this erotica. It had steamy scenes, but it was not erotic IMHO. However, I will admit that the beginning of the book was entertaining, and even though I am not one for historical accuracy, I just cannot forgive them this time. Lack of believability and logic were also reasons for my not finishing.

I stopped at 72% When

The idea of two grown adults hating each other for childhood pranks of the past was interesting. Unfortunately, the execution failed for me. I suppose if the childhood actions were played up more, and the reader shown how it affected them in adulthood, changing them somehow, maybe it would have worked better. Instead it came off as immature and silly. This is where my interest waned.

The final nail in the coffin was seeing how easily the heroine forgave Robert Didn't make sense to me.

Needless to say, I lost all respect for the hero and he became unredeemable in my eyes. The heroine to me, was weak, and stupid.

The skimming began when they went to the kitchen to make biscuits. Do we really need 5 pages of making biscuits and eating ham? Couldn't there have been better ways to fill pages?

Sorry, I wanted to like this one, but it's just not my cup of tea. Too many things hit my nerves to write them all down.
Profile Image for Maria.
30 reviews24 followers
December 1, 2013
5 "I LOVE BRADFORD" Stars..

Keeping it short..


It had been a long time since I have put my hands on a novel.



And this book was a perfect pick for me..IT QUENCHED MY THIRST.. :D


It was funny,sweet and passionate.


I loved Elizabeth and Robert,their pranks,love,jealousy,passion.


My thoughts after completing this book..

description
Profile Image for Britney.
245 reviews146 followers
November 2, 2013
LOVED IT!!!! R.L. Mathewson has delivered, again!

Don't let the "historic" aspect scare you off! I'm NOT a fan of historical novels but LOVED this one!!

Definitely historic- lite ;)
Profile Image for AJ.
3,093 reviews1,035 followers
November 8, 2014
OMG, I love this book! I’m a huge fan of R.L. Mathewson’s Neighbor from Hell series, and will admit to being a little worried about this one because it strays a bit from what we are used to, but R.L. did a fantastic job of staying true to what her fans love about these books, giving it enough of a twist to make it something really special.

The book starts in the present, with Jason’s Dad sitting him and Trevor down to tell the story of the beginning of one of the traditions of the Bradford men. And the boys are in fine form as usual.

“Once upon a time…”
“Are you fucking kidding me?” Jason asked, shaking his head in disgust.
“What?” Jarred demanded, taking a bite from his sandwich roll.
“You’re really going to start it like that?” Jason demanded, sharing a look of disgust with Trevor, who was inching his hand toward the platter of sandwich rolls.
…“Ow!”
“Those are my sandwich rolls!”
“Dad,” Jason said, not bothering to look up as he prompted his father to get on with it.
“Oh, right,” his father said, pointedly clearing his throat. “Once upon a time…….”

Flashing back to London 1809, we meet Elizabeth Stanton and Robert Bradford as children - family ‘friends’ and neighbours who live to torture and torment each other.

Years later, Elizabeth is being forced into society to find a husband. Being dragged along to balls and introduced to ‘appropriate’ men, she is miserable, and waiting until she is of age to receive an inheritance left to her by her aunt, so that she can escape London and the fake life that she is being pushed into. Robert finds himself in a similar situation, being forced to play nice and support his family as his older brother (and heir to his father’s title) searches for a wife.

Both desperate to escape their situations, Elizabeth and Robert find themselves hiding out in the gardens during one particular ball and, not realising who the other is, they engage in some polite conversation which turns into one very hot and steamy anonymous tryst. Holy historical hotness! If you were expecting all politeness and modesty because of the era – think again!

What should have been just one night, an unforgettable memory for both of them, quickly turns sour when they realise who the other is, and as the two families are unexpectedly thrust together under the one roof, Robert and Elizabeth’s childhood battles resume and the two of them are at each other’s throats once again.

“When he didn’t respond she got nervous. She looked up slowly to see him practically shaking with rage. She gulped. Giving him a tentative smile she asked, “Too far?”
Slowly he nodded. His fists clenched tightly.
“Oh dear.” She jumped to her feet and ducked just as he reached for her. For some reason she always went too far where he was concerned. It really couldn’t be helped though, it was too much fun to pass up.
She hiked up her skirts and ran as if her life depended upon it. With one look behind her she realized that it just might. He was chasing after her. She shrieked, but didn’t stop. Her father stepped out into the hall in front of her, flanked by James and Lord Bradford.
“Elizabeth?” he asked, stunned.
“Too far!” she said as if those two words would explain why a grown man was chasing his daughter. Evidently it did because all three men laughed and nodded knowingly. She didn’t stick around to see if her father was going to help her . There was a madman chasing her after all.
“Beth!” Robert roared.

Absolutely freaking hilarious! Elizabeth and Robert are in sensational form as they constantly prank and tease each other. But the feelings that started that night in the garden just won’t go away, and they are both battling with the memories of their childhood versus the memories of their one incredible night together, and it was fantastic to watch! I loved seeing them together! They have a true love/hate relationship. They both want each other badly, but they honestly can’t stand each other, and it’s hilarious watching them trying to reconcile their feelings.

“This was bad. This was very bad. He needed her too much. His body yearned for her in every possible way. He enjoyed her quick wit and sharp tongue. She could be funny and he knew that she was kind. This was beyond horrible. He hated the woman. She was his enemy.
His enemy.
He was such an ass.”

Robert and Elizabeth’s relationship certainly takes a few unexpected turns as they fight each other, their own desires, and the rules inflicted upon them by their families, and society at the time. They are both incredibly stubborn, and they have a few communication issues, but God, I love them both! You can see the Bradford traits already there in Robert, and Elizabeth is an amazing character, so strong, intelligent and fiercely independent. They both have a wicked sense of humour, and their passion for each other is sensational. But it’s not an easy ride for them, and I was surprised a number of times at the direction the story took, but I loved every minute of it. The fighting, the steaminess, the heartache, the tender moments, and a whole heap of happy, I loved watching them find their way to each other and get their HEA (in great detail!).

The historical aspect is not at all heavy. It’s more their upbringing, the society that they live in and the rules that they are meant to follow that make it historical. So even if you've only ever read contemporary, you should have no problems picking up this book. The banter, teasing, humour, romance (and the sexy time) is all still there, and it fits in beautifully with the rest of the series.

I highly recommend this to all fans of the series, and if you haven’t read a Neighbor from Hell book yet, get started with this one – Playing for Keeps - you won't be disappointed!

Loved it – 4.5 stars.
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