This is NOT an Office Romance

This is NOT an Office Romance* by Eloise Fox is a novel and captivating addition to the modern romance genre, skilfully combining heart, humour, and a hint of mystery from the workplace. Fox creates a story that is unique by fusing witty observations about workplace dynamics with endearing romantic tension. The protagonist of the narrative is Jane Collins, a sharp and independent public relations professional who is hesitantly partnered with Ethan Carter, a capable but emotionally distant corporate consultant. As they collaborate on a high-stakes project, their originally antagonistic relationship takes unforeseen turns that reveal deeper aspects of both characters' personal lives.

This novel is especially enjoyable since it offers an original take on the office romance cliché. In contrast to many other books in the genre, Fox avoids clichés and offers a sophisticated examination of the unforeseen ways in which personal and professional boundaries might overlap. Witty dialogue and well-rounded character development are two areas where Fox's writing excels. Jane's transformation from a reserved professional to a person who embraces her flaws is sensitively and nuancedly presented. Beyond simply being a romantic partner, Ethan is a complex person with his own set of challenges and achievements. Understanding the individuality of the characters allows us to better understand the tension between them.

With everything taken into account, "This is NOT an Office Romance" is a fun read that puts a creative spin on conventional romance topics. It's a great option for those who want a novel that strikes a balance between romance and practical issues, and it will probably speak to anyone who has ever negotiated the difficult dance between personal and professional connections. This novel is well worth your time if you're looking for a light-hearted yet thought-provoking romance.

3,5⭐
Although I found it a bit slow at the beginning, as the story progressed I found myself really invested with the story and the characters. I really enjoyed the double POV, and the writing of the story. As it says in the cover that it's part of a series, I really hope it's about Sarah, I would love to see her story unfold!

*This is NOT an Office Romance* by Eloise Fox offers readers a refreshing twist on the office romance genre, blending humor, wit, and heartfelt moments in a story that transcends typical romantic tropes.

Emily Taylor, a strong-willed and successful New York lawyer, is our protagonist, who’s just beginning to piece her life back together after a tragic accident. Having spent the past year recovering in rural England, Emily is finally ready to re-enter the corporate world. She lands a position at a boutique law firm in London, determined to focus on her career with no distractions—especially not of the romantic kind. However, her plans go awry when she’s partnered with Jack, a handsome but emotionally distant British lawyer who’s as successful in his field as he is aloof.

Jack is the epitome of professional success, seemingly having it all, including a perfect fiancée. But beneath his polished exterior, Jack feels an unsettling void in his life. When he’s tasked with working closely with Emily, including on a high-stakes business trip to Bermuda, the sparks begin to fly—both professionally and personally.

Eloise Fox masterfully builds the tension between Emily and Jack, creating a dynamic that’s as much about professional rivalry as it is about their undeniable attraction. The cultural clash between Emily’s brash New York style and Jack’s reserved British demeanor adds another layer of complexity to their interactions, making their journey from colleagues to lovers both unpredictable and delightful.

What makes this novel stand out is how Fox subverts the expectations of a typical office romance. Emily and Jack’s relationship is more than just a love story; it’s about two people grappling with their own personal challenges and professional ambitions. Emily’s determination to rebuild her career after a life-altering event, paired with Jack’s quest to find meaning beyond his professional success, gives the story a depth that elevates it above a simple romantic comedy.

Fox’s writing is sharp and engaging, with plenty of witty banter that brings the characters to life. The chemistry between Emily and Jack is electric, and their interactions are laced with both humor and emotional intensity. The author does a fantastic job of balancing the lighter moments with the more serious themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, making the novel a compelling read from start to finish.

The setting of the novel—split between the bustling city of London and the exotic backdrop of Bermuda—adds a touch of glamour and escapism, further enhancing the story’s appeal. The secondary characters, from quirky office colleagues to Jack’s seemingly perfect fiancée, add depth and richness to the narrative, ensuring that the world Fox creates feels fully realized and vibrant.

*This is NOT an Office Romance* is more than just a story of opposites attracting. It’s a smart, funny, and ultimately life-affirming novel about how love can emerge in the most unexpected places, and how it can bridge the gaps of career, culture, and confusion. For readers looking for a romance that’s both heartfelt and humorous, this book is a must-read. Eloise Fox has delivered a novel that will leave you rooting for love, even in the most professional of settings.

This book masterfully intertwines the complexities of personal trauma, professional ambition, and the unpredictable nature of romance in the high-stakes world of corporate law. The narrative follows Emily Taylor, a talented New York lawyer who has spent a year healing from a tragic accident in rural England. Now, back in the bustling heart of London, she is poised to reclaim her career at a boutique law firm, all while steadfastly avoiding any romantic entanglements.
Emily’s character is both relatable and compelling. Fox does an excellent job of portraying her internal struggle as she grapples with her past and the weight of her professional aspirations. The author’s nuanced depiction of recovery allows readers to understand Emily’s reluctance to embrace love again, making her journey not just another romantic subplot, but a profound exploration of healing and self-discovery.
Enter Jack, a charismatic yet emotionally reserved partner at the firm, who seems to have it all—a successful career and a fiancée who appears to be the perfect match. But as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that Jack’s life is more complicated than it seems. His partnership with Emily on a high-profile case gives rise to a tension that bubbles beneath the surface, drawing them together as they navigate both office politics and unresolved feelings. Fox crafts their chemistry with a delicate hand, allowing the reader to feel the push-and-pull of their relationship evolve organically.
The backdrop of the law firm provides a rich setting for the unfolding drama. The challenges they face are not just legal but deeply personal, testing their resilience and the choices they make. The business trip to Bermuda adds a delightful twist, juxtaposing the beauty of their tropical surroundings with the stormy emotions they deal with back home, encapsulating the juxtaposition of personal and professional lives in a way that feels both glamorous and relatable.
However, the true strength of this book lies in its exploration of what it means to open oneself up to love again after loss. Emily and Jack’s journey is one of rediscovery—of themselves, their desires, and the possibility of a future together despite the fears that threaten to overwhelm them. Their dynamic is a poignant reminder that while the corporate world may be unforgiving, the heart often yearns for connection, even in the most unexpected circumstances. Overall, I highly recommend this book! Eloise Fox delivers a captivating narrative that blends romance, personal growth, and the thrilling highs and lows of the legal profession. This story is an enthralling read that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced the challenge of balancing ambition with the vulnerability of the human heart.