After the death of her husband, Juliana Ryan never imagined she’d return to work under such challenging circumstances. On her first day back, she literally runs into the annoyingly handsome Ben Thomas—and later overhears his dismissive comments about her need to balance work and single parenting. From that moment, Juliana’s disdain for Ben is cemented. Fast forward two years, and their workplace rivalry has reached new heights. Then they discover that they are both up for executive roles with the company and must join forces to launch an important new initiative. Outside the office, their lives become unexpectedly intertwined, pushing them to confront their pasts. Together, they navigate vulnerability, trust, and the challenge of balancing their ambitions with their personal struggles. Along the way, they discover that their rivalry might just be the foundation for something much deeper.
This book surprised me with its depth and complexity. Juliana and Ben’s journey from antagonists to partners is filled with raw emotion, sharp banter, and moments of incredible vulnerability. Their relationship is richly layered, and I was captivated as they lifted each other up, let each other down, and ultimately found a way to move forward.
The workplace setting adds another dimension, with thoughtful secondary storylines about ethics and diversity that make the office more than just a backdrop. It’s a well-rounded, relatable story that balances professional challenges with personal growth.
Charlotte North’s solo narration is outstanding, giving every character a unique and authentic voice. Her performance kept me immersed in the story, and she captures the emotional nuances beautifully. (10h, 3m)
Book: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Audiobook: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Book Smart Kate 