My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

Hey Book friends! Today, I have an absolute gem of a story to share with you. So, let’s dive right into “Not Bad for a Girl” by Annastasia Ryan. I’m giving this book 4.5 stars! This workplace comedy strikes the perfect balance of humor, seriousness, and sweet romance. If you’ve ever felt unappreciated in your career because of your gender, this one’s for you!

We start by meeting Indiana “Ana” Aaron, a talented coder and IT specialist whose workplace journey is as relatable as it is entertaining. From cringe-worthy Zoom calls to awkward lunch breaks, Annastasia Ryan captures the essence of the modern workplace with wit and charm. Ana’s experiences will have you nodding along, laughing, and maybe even cringing in solidarity.

Ana’s transfer to a remote team is where the real adventure begins. Eager for redemption, she sees working from home as a chance to keep her head down and her camera off. However, when her new boss mistakes her for a “Mr. Aaron” and praises “his” assertiveness, Ana decides to roll with it. And so, the legend of “Indiana” is born, taking on a wild and crazy life of its own.

The strength of “Not Bad for a Girl” lies not only in its humor but also in its exploration of workplace preconceptions and gender bias. Ana’s journey to navigate and triumph over these challenges is both heartwarming and really empowering. The story delves into the struggles many women face in their careers, offering a narrative that’s both relatable and inspiring.

Now, let’s talk about the romance since this is after all a romance book. We meet Shane, the handsome tech-finance guy who becomes Ana’s ally in this workplace comedy of errors. The chemistry between Ana and Shane adds a sweet and endearing layer to the story. Their interactions are filled with charm, making the romance a delightful subplot that complements the overall narrative but does not detract from the strong themes of female empowerment.

As for the 4.5 stars, the only reason for the slight deduction is a personal preference for a touch more exploration in certain plot points. I feel like I know almost nothing about Shane from before he met Ana and that would have made this a perfect read for me. However, this doesn’t overshadow the overall enjoyment and impact of the story.

So friends, “Not Bad for a Girl” is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt underestimated in their career due to their gender. Annastasia Ryan has crafted a workplace rom-com that’s not only hilarious but also thought-provoking. So, find a comfy chair, a cup of your favorite beverage, and let Ana’s journey entertain and inspire you. Happy reading!


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A big thank you to Anastasia Ryan for creating such a delightful read, to the audiobook narrator Jesse Vilinsky for bringing it to life, and to NetGalley and Dreamscape Publishers for supplying me with a copy of this story for my honest review.