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They're Not Strangers
Denice was enjoying a carefree life with her closest friends, thriving in her small business, and leaving her stress in the past. However, things took a turn when a road trip involving her friend led to unexpected revelations, bringing along people from her past!
Ayzo planned to reunite with his closest friend, Nicholas, after two years of being away. However, when Nicholas found himself in trouble, Ayzo immediately stepped in to assist. Little did he know that he would encounter the one woman who had occupied his thoughts for the last eight years.
As Ayzo and Denice embark on a journey to set aside their complicated history, they find themselves entangled in a special project. Navigating their past while striving to maintain a cordial relationship, they face the challenge of working together for the sake of their friends.
Ayzo planned to reunite with his closest friend, Nicholas, after two years of being away. However, when Nicholas found himself in trouble, Ayzo immediately stepped in to assist. Little did he know that he would encounter the one woman who had occupied his thoughts for the last eight years.
As Ayzo and Denice embark on a journey to set aside their complicated history, they find themselves entangled in a special project. Navigating their past while striving to maintain a cordial relationship, they face the challenge of working together for the sake of their friends.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2024
168 people are currently reading
327 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Southwell
9 books62 followersJD Southwell, a proud Texan, embraces her roles as a devoted wife, passionate author, and aspiring businesswoman. Identifying as a functioning introvert, JD channels her love for reading into crafting romance books filled suspense and fantasy, finding joy in the diverse worlds that literature offers.
In the peaceful quiet of the night, her creativity thrives as she weaves stories inspired by the characters and adventures she encounters within the pages of books. When she's not writing, you can often find her in the kitchen baking delicious treats, rewatching her favorite shows and movies, or cherishing moments with family and friends.
In the peaceful quiet of the night, her creativity thrives as she weaves stories inspired by the characters and adventures she encounters within the pages of books. When she's not writing, you can often find her in the kitchen baking delicious treats, rewatching her favorite shows and movies, or cherishing moments with family and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 10, 2024
This book right here had me in an array of emotions to say the least. Going from romance to damn near a thriller omg. I wouldn’t have expected the book to take the loops it did.
I need help! Because my jaw is to the floor!!! The ending of this book had you relaying little details from book 1 in this series! OMG OMG where is book 3
I need help! Because my jaw is to the floor!!! The ending of this book had you relaying little details from book 1 in this series! OMG OMG where is book 3
July 23, 2024
I NEEEEED BOOK 3. Shit is going to hit the fuckin fan. I didn’t see that plot twist coming at all. I thoroughly enjoyed the back story of Ayzo and Denise.. but bayybeeeee shit is just getting started.
August 18, 2025
In this second book in the Its a Vibe series we got to see Denice and Ayzo's story and why she was not feeling him as an adult. We also got introduced to some other characters from their past. I was happy that they were able to finally have a conversation and move on from what happened all those years ago and she realized he wasn't as bad as she thought he was in his actions. I did think that she made some questionable decisions when it came to reconnecting with Luther even if in her mind it was just on a friends level based on how he was behaved when they were younger and what she experienced with her parents.
I was happy that Denice decided to allow herself to be loved and shed the fear that she tied to it with her past experience. Once Denice and Ayzo decided to be together the story moved a little fast from there. I liked the romantic suspense aspect and while I know it is a fictional story, I found a few parts of the story a little unbelievable especially the events that led up to the warehouse scene and afterwards. The ending felt a little rushed too. I am curious to see how things go in the third installment.
I was happy that Denice decided to allow herself to be loved and shed the fear that she tied to it with her past experience. Once Denice and Ayzo decided to be together the story moved a little fast from there. I liked the romantic suspense aspect and while I know it is a fictional story, I found a few parts of the story a little unbelievable especially the events that led up to the warehouse scene and afterwards. The ending felt a little rushed too. I am curious to see how things go in the third installment.
October 1, 2024
TW: Childhood trauma, abuse, attempted sexual assault, kidnapping, stalking, violence, murder, sexual explicit scenes
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
•••••
Denice was enjoying a carefree life with her closest friends and thriving as an entrepreneur with her small business. This was until her best friend took a road trip that created life changing events for everyone around her…..including Denice. When Ayzo, an unexpected person from the past resurfaces, Denice must set aside their complicated friendship to complete a special project. Navigating through their history, Denice and Ayzo must work together for the sake of their friends. Repulsed by the thought of having to be cordial with Ayzo, Denice soon realizes she’ll need him more than ever.
•••••
Chileeeee book three me please. I’m not even mad about how the book ended, I just know for the sake of my sanity I need to know what happens next so I can stop creating scenarios in my head. Also, this book is spicy….CLITerature if you will. So ya know, be mindful. It was the perfect mix of romance and drama, but quickly escalated to a thriller. The plot twist and story development was great. Definitely a good quick read if you’re in a slump.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
•••••
Denice was enjoying a carefree life with her closest friends and thriving as an entrepreneur with her small business. This was until her best friend took a road trip that created life changing events for everyone around her…..including Denice. When Ayzo, an unexpected person from the past resurfaces, Denice must set aside their complicated friendship to complete a special project. Navigating through their history, Denice and Ayzo must work together for the sake of their friends. Repulsed by the thought of having to be cordial with Ayzo, Denice soon realizes she’ll need him more than ever.
•••••
Chileeeee book three me please. I’m not even mad about how the book ended, I just know for the sake of my sanity I need to know what happens next so I can stop creating scenarios in my head. Also, this book is spicy….CLITerature if you will. So ya know, be mindful. It was the perfect mix of romance and drama, but quickly escalated to a thriller. The plot twist and story development was great. Definitely a good quick read if you’re in a slump.
July 29, 2025
Denice being so untrusting was working my nerves.
good overall
good overall
April 28, 2025
This was a great follow up to book 1, and now I can't wait to read book 3 because I have questions. i enjoyed learning about these characters and their past especially after reading the first book. somehow all of these characters are connected and it is blowing my mind, I'm like wait a minute... I know you lying lol.
January 4, 2025
Let’s All Go To Therapy
This book was a good sequel to the first one “40 hours with a Stranger” and tied up even more loose ends and how everyone is connected. I must say that Denice got on my nerves though with how she pushed Ayzo away. I’m just glad they’re both in therapy now lol
This book was a good sequel to the first one “40 hours with a Stranger” and tied up even more loose ends and how everyone is connected. I must say that Denice got on my nerves though with how she pushed Ayzo away. I’m just glad they’re both in therapy now lol
July 11, 2024
J.D!!!!! HOW YOU JUST GONNA END THE BOOK LIKE THAT OMMGGGGGG!!!! 😩😩😩😩😩
5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
First off, I loved Denice in this story! She was so spunky and loved seeing her grow and heal from what she went through as a child.
Secondly !!!! That last chapter! The PoV we got! GIRLLLL!!! I knew his ass was up to no good and was a bad one. I felt it the entire time, outside of acting like Denice’s dad.
I’m so excited there’s gonna be another book now to wrap this up.
There’s so much drama and it’s so messy and I live for it since I don’t have any drama of my own lol
I loved the scene where Ayzo used his tongue to spell the alphabet on Denice’s 🐱😩🥵 I love them together so much, more than Ashlynn and Nick I think.
I can’t wait to see what happens in this third book!
5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
First off, I loved Denice in this story! She was so spunky and loved seeing her grow and heal from what she went through as a child.
Secondly !!!! That last chapter! The PoV we got! GIRLLLL!!! I knew his ass was up to no good and was a bad one. I felt it the entire time, outside of acting like Denice’s dad.
I’m so excited there’s gonna be another book now to wrap this up.
There’s so much drama and it’s so messy and I live for it since I don’t have any drama of my own lol
I loved the scene where Ayzo used his tongue to spell the alphabet on Denice’s 🐱😩🥵 I love them together so much, more than Ashlynn and Nick I think.
I can’t wait to see what happens in this third book!
June 22, 2025
Overall:
-Easy Read
-Fast paced
-SPICY
-Strong voice
-Perfect summer/beach/pool read
That genre shift is what dropped the rating for me. What started off as a strong 5 ended somewhere around a 3.8 (but I rounded up). Still worth the read though!!!! The heart of the story was in Dee, her past, and the imperfect connections she was trying to make in the present.
I don’t usually go for romance novels. But this one pulled me in more than I expected. It was not dripping with super sappy romance (Fabio) clichés. The romance and SPICE was a 10. BUT the mystery/thriller shift hit, and then things changed.
The real deal to this story is Dee’s recounting of her adolescent years. Dee’s narrative of a foster child wasn’t just another “damaged but lovable” story. It acknowledged a truth most books fail to unpack which is the (sometimes) complicated and cruel dynamic between foster kids themselves. Her years as an adolescent and the journey between her and Akeno’s romantic development was well on its own without crossing paths with Book 1 characters.
Akeno’s backstory also had weight. His experiences with maternal abuse added a serious emotional layer that grounded the romance and gave their connection more meaning. That part of the book had me hooked.
No thank you to the pivot.
The sudden shift veered into full blown mystery/thriller mode. It started to feel like I was reading a different book, or it was being rushed and forced to connect to elements of book one. IDEA HERE COUGH COUGH The thriller part should’ve been saved for a separate novel or even a spinoff centered on Akeno’s family. There was enough there to carry its own weight.
All in all look forward to book 3.
December 11, 2024
They’re Not Strangers (It’s a Vibe, Book 2) by J.D. Southwell
After falling in love with J.D. Southwell’s first book, 40 Hours with a Stranger, I couldn’t wait to dive into the sequel, They’re Not Strangers, and once again, Southwell delivered a masterpiece! This book continues the “vibe” with an irresistible mix of heartfelt romance, emotional growth, and dynamic relationships that kept me hooked from start to finish.
While Nick and Lynn stole my heart in book one, Denice and Ayzo took center stage in this sequel—and what a pair they are! Their chemistry is electric, their journey is compelling, and their love story adds a fresh yet equally gripping dimension to this series. Southwell’s ability to create characters that feel both relatable and unforgettable is unmatched, and seeing all four characters woven together throughout the story made for a truly satisfying read.
The writing is vivid, the pacing is perfect, and the emotions run deep. Southwell crafts moments that will make you laugh, swoon, and maybe even shed a tear. It’s rare to find a sequel that not only complements the first book but also elevates the series as a whole, and They’re Not Strangers does just that.
If you haven’t picked up J.D. Southwell’s books yet, you’re missing out. These stories are more than romances—they’re heartfelt journeys with characters who feel like family. I can’t wait to see what this talented author delivers next!
5/5 Stars 🌟
After falling in love with J.D. Southwell’s first book, 40 Hours with a Stranger, I couldn’t wait to dive into the sequel, They’re Not Strangers, and once again, Southwell delivered a masterpiece! This book continues the “vibe” with an irresistible mix of heartfelt romance, emotional growth, and dynamic relationships that kept me hooked from start to finish.
While Nick and Lynn stole my heart in book one, Denice and Ayzo took center stage in this sequel—and what a pair they are! Their chemistry is electric, their journey is compelling, and their love story adds a fresh yet equally gripping dimension to this series. Southwell’s ability to create characters that feel both relatable and unforgettable is unmatched, and seeing all four characters woven together throughout the story made for a truly satisfying read.
The writing is vivid, the pacing is perfect, and the emotions run deep. Southwell crafts moments that will make you laugh, swoon, and maybe even shed a tear. It’s rare to find a sequel that not only complements the first book but also elevates the series as a whole, and They’re Not Strangers does just that.
If you haven’t picked up J.D. Southwell’s books yet, you’re missing out. These stories are more than romances—they’re heartfelt journeys with characters who feel like family. I can’t wait to see what this talented author delivers next!
5/5 Stars 🌟
March 17, 2025
🤔🤔
There was a lot going on in this short, well short to me book. While I don’t like Kendra, I see how easy she got over on Ashlynn and Denise. Kendra was always in survivor mode and latched onto anything with potential. While Denise had that scrappiness about her, she let the wrong people play in her face - like Luther and Olivia. I mean why would you give this man a second of your time after that thing with him, Olivia and Xavier? Ayzo was the only person worthy of her time, but until she “accidentally” got the message finally she was ready to forgive him, then flip the switch again. The setup was actually perfect. I mean years in the making between everyone involved so I can’t wait to see what’s to come in the next book. I mean no one here are strangers, everyone is connected and I’m hoping that for sure Olivia and Luther get whatever is coming.
There was a lot going on in this short, well short to me book. While I don’t like Kendra, I see how easy she got over on Ashlynn and Denise. Kendra was always in survivor mode and latched onto anything with potential. While Denise had that scrappiness about her, she let the wrong people play in her face - like Luther and Olivia. I mean why would you give this man a second of your time after that thing with him, Olivia and Xavier? Ayzo was the only person worthy of her time, but until she “accidentally” got the message finally she was ready to forgive him, then flip the switch again. The setup was actually perfect. I mean years in the making between everyone involved so I can’t wait to see what’s to come in the next book. I mean no one here are strangers, everyone is connected and I’m hoping that for sure Olivia and Luther get whatever is coming.
January 2, 2025
So this is the second book in the it’s a vibe series and I’m confused. I thought I was reading a romance series. In the first book we got Nick and Ashlynn’s story and in this book we got Denice and Ayzo’s story. In the background there had been this criminal subplot of selling stolen auto parts in Ashlynn’s family business, rival gangs connected to Ayzo’s family, and there so called friend Kendra. The third book promises to wrap up the criminal plot, but I’m trying to figure how we deviated so far from the romance! We have so many characters at play with all these connections to one another, and honestly I don’t even know why. I need the author to start at the beginning and connect the dots!
June 1, 2025
I loved this book more than the 1st in this series!!! How cute it it that Denice and Ayzo are old friends and their best friends have falling in love. Though these are both an element of romance there is so much more going on giving you suspense and action. Baby they way these men were coming back from the past in Denice’s life had me laughing and nothing was funny other than that’s how life be working. I hate that they were robbed of so much time but what’s meant to be will be. It’s crazy how the book had so many underlying story lines and had connections other than the obvious ones from book be one. Great read and need book three to hurry up because that cliffhanger is not damn joke.
August 13, 2025
Action…
I love that JD gives us the triggers upfront.
There was some action happening in here. The author knows how to keep a reader engaged. Really enjoyed reading Denise and Ayzo’s story. Their backstory was very entertaining and detailed on how they have gotten to this point in their life. Glad they got a second chance because i could have seen them being teenage sweetheart.
Ayzo’s story was crazy. Being brought to be trained to go from a young age has to do something to one mental. Then that mother wasn’t worth nothing honey. We see how he changes all of that. Denise with her business is so dope. The drama though had me shaking my head. Some people just don’t know when they have lost. Can’t wait to read book 3.
I love that JD gives us the triggers upfront.
There was some action happening in here. The author knows how to keep a reader engaged. Really enjoyed reading Denise and Ayzo’s story. Their backstory was very entertaining and detailed on how they have gotten to this point in their life. Glad they got a second chance because i could have seen them being teenage sweetheart.
Ayzo’s story was crazy. Being brought to be trained to go from a young age has to do something to one mental. Then that mother wasn’t worth nothing honey. We see how he changes all of that. Denise with her business is so dope. The drama though had me shaking my head. Some people just don’t know when they have lost. Can’t wait to read book 3.
November 12, 2025
Tangled Web
Although the first book seemed like a standalone, the subplot continues in this story and beyond. We find out how Denice knows Ayzo and why she is angry with him. Ghosts from the past rear up and cause havoc.
This would have been more enjoyable if there weren't so many unrealistic coincidences, people across two major cities that know each other or are connected. If Denice's animosity was about more than feeling rejected by someone she knew for a few hours Eight years ago. If the author could stick to calling the mmc by one name. If the author wasn't so preachy.
Despite all that, I am curious about the cousin I'm hiding.
Although the first book seemed like a standalone, the subplot continues in this story and beyond. We find out how Denice knows Ayzo and why she is angry with him. Ghosts from the past rear up and cause havoc.
This would have been more enjoyable if there weren't so many unrealistic coincidences, people across two major cities that know each other or are connected. If Denice's animosity was about more than feeling rejected by someone she knew for a few hours Eight years ago. If the author could stick to calling the mmc by one name. If the author wasn't so preachy.
Despite all that, I am curious about the cousin I'm hiding.
October 27, 2024
I'm so in love with this series that I CANNOT wait for Strangers No More. This series is so fast paced that it doesn't leave you with any unanswered questions but leaving you with wanting to pick up the next one ASAP. I'm here for the ride honestly and I cannot wait until the next one. I'm thankful for stuff your kindle day, because I wouldn't of known about the first book - 40 hours with a stranger. I had this one but something told me to hold off thankfully I did because it made the reading experience even better!
February 6, 2025
Ghostly MacGyver
🧐Ayzo, hopefully you’re a better boyfriend & lover than you were a shadow & super sleuth…because fyi, a ghostly (ninja spider) MacGyver ain’t your strength 🤭🤷🏾♀️‼️ “They’re Not Stranger: It’s A Vibe - Book 2” was definitely thrills, spills & kills aka a wild adventure both past & present for the best friends crew of Denice & Ayzo and Ashlynn & Nick. Unfortunately, we’ll need to wait for a book 3 for a plausible resolution to all of the hostility and drama surrounding power, egos and revenge. Hmmmm 🫣🧐🍿⁉️
🧐Ayzo, hopefully you’re a better boyfriend & lover than you were a shadow & super sleuth…because fyi, a ghostly (ninja spider) MacGyver ain’t your strength 🤭🤷🏾♀️‼️ “They’re Not Stranger: It’s A Vibe - Book 2” was definitely thrills, spills & kills aka a wild adventure both past & present for the best friends crew of Denice & Ayzo and Ashlynn & Nick. Unfortunately, we’ll need to wait for a book 3 for a plausible resolution to all of the hostility and drama surrounding power, egos and revenge. Hmmmm 🫣🧐🍿⁉️
April 28, 2025
3.75⭐️ This book explained the drama with characters from Ayzo and Denise's past but somehow it all connected together to some of the characters mentioned in the first book of series. I enjoyed it although there were some moments where I was like how did that even come about? And MAN was Dee getting on my last nerves. 🤦🏾♀️ But at least they got it together and i got to see their connection grow. She needed that. 🩷 I'm anxious to read the next book since we were left with a cliffhanger 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
Good Characters, Great Drama!
I just finished the second book in the series and really enjoyed it! No spoilers this time🤐.
I loved how the backstory had its own time to unfold. The character building was sweet, the abuse and torment they endured was apart of the DNA victim or survivor….
The drama kept me reading, and I was pleasantly surprised there’s another book! I was very impressed with the twists and turns! Written well Ms J.D. Southwell
I just finished the second book in the series and really enjoyed it! No spoilers this time🤐.
I loved how the backstory had its own time to unfold. The character building was sweet, the abuse and torment they endured was apart of the DNA victim or survivor….
The drama kept me reading, and I was pleasantly surprised there’s another book! I was very impressed with the twists and turns! Written well Ms J.D. Southwell
November 11, 2024
Oh this was a ride
This was a ride! Sometimes, when the past comes back, it could ruin everything, and sometimes, it could be the beginning of forever. I was screaming JUST TALK, HAVE THE CONVERSATION for all of part 1 seems like. Ayzo is a man after Denise's own heart, i tell you. He stood on business, and so did she !
This was a ride! Sometimes, when the past comes back, it could ruin everything, and sometimes, it could be the beginning of forever. I was screaming JUST TALK, HAVE THE CONVERSATION for all of part 1 seems like. Ayzo is a man after Denise's own heart, i tell you. He stood on business, and so did she !
January 7, 2025
Whew! Talk about a plot twist! This book took several turns. And what I thought would be a romance with some hood drama sprinkled in, we’ve gotten a little bit of thriller sprinkled in there. I finished part 1 and 2 in the same day and I’m absolutely ready for part 3!
(Spoiler-ish: I knew Luther was up to no good. He wouldn’t just pop back up. Wasn’t shocked the least bit with his involvement)
(Spoiler-ish: I knew Luther was up to no good. He wouldn’t just pop back up. Wasn’t shocked the least bit with his involvement)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2025
alright now!
This book was not what I thought it would be. I enjoyed this book more than I expected to. I’ve not read a lot of romantic suspense novels, but this one surprised me in a great way. And that ending— wowzers. Amazing job pulling it all together. Time to dive into book 3!
This book was not what I thought it would be. I enjoyed this book more than I expected to. I’ve not read a lot of romantic suspense novels, but this one surprised me in a great way. And that ending— wowzers. Amazing job pulling it all together. Time to dive into book 3!
July 2, 2024
great story
Im really enjoying this series. Perfect mix of drama, action, a little mystery. I kind of figured out where it was headed early on but still enjoyed the story unfolding. And i really love the relationship between the main characters. Looking forward to the next book!
Im really enjoying this series. Perfect mix of drama, action, a little mystery. I kind of figured out where it was headed early on but still enjoyed the story unfolding. And i really love the relationship between the main characters. Looking forward to the next book!
July 7, 2024
good book
I enjoyed this book. Happy that I was able to get to know Denice and Ayzo background! It sucks it ended on a cliffhanger because who is T? What is his obsession with Denice? I wanted it to be a happily ever after but I guess next book!
I enjoyed this book. Happy that I was able to get to know Denice and Ayzo background! It sucks it ended on a cliffhanger because who is T? What is his obsession with Denice? I wanted it to be a happily ever after but I guess next book!
November 11, 2024
good
Good sequel. Still farfetched but entertaining. Ayzo and Denice are well developed characters. I enjoyed reading about their dramatic lives, finding each other and falling in love. I look forward to the third book in the series.
Good sequel. Still farfetched but entertaining. Ayzo and Denice are well developed characters. I enjoyed reading about their dramatic lives, finding each other and falling in love. I look forward to the third book in the series.
December 12, 2024
It All Falls Into Place
I love when the sequels continue like no time was lost. When the characters stories align and when we are met with many oohs and aaahs! Love & betrayal, past meets present. It's a never ending web of revenge.
I love when the sequels continue like no time was lost. When the characters stories align and when we are met with many oohs and aaahs! Love & betrayal, past meets present. It's a never ending web of revenge.
December 17, 2024
Personally not for me. The writing was choppy and the backstory barely unfolded that wouldve allowed a seamless more enjoyable flow. I dont know if I’ll finish the series, plus Denice was pissing me off.
February 27, 2025
What a ride
So this series really kept my interest and I can't wait for book 3. I knew the phone calls were coming from Kendra. I won't say anything else but I definitely recommend.
So this series really kept my interest and I can't wait for book 3. I knew the phone calls were coming from Kendra. I won't say anything else but I definitely recommend.
August 23, 2025
omfg
Way to connect the dots. This book was fantastic. They’re not strangers brings old friends back into the picture. One are for the better while others should’ve been left in the past. This held my attention the whole throughout
Way to connect the dots. This book was fantastic. They’re not strangers brings old friends back into the picture. One are for the better while others should’ve been left in the past. This held my attention the whole throughout
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews