Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)

Hello friends! I just finished Not Safe for Work by Nisha J. Tuli, and I have to say, this book is a breath of fresh air for anyone who loves a smart, modern workplace romance with real stakes and even realer characters. If you’ve ever felt overlooked at work or had to navigate the exhausting politics of the “good old boys club,” this one is for you.

The story centers on Trishara Malik, a talented woman in engineering who is constantly underestimated and passed over in favor of the nepo babies and the usual suspects. I was immediately drawn into Trishara’s world, feeling every bit of her frustration as she worked twice as hard for half the recognition. The workplace dynamics are painfully realistic, and Nisha J. Tuli does a fantastic job capturing the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways women are sidelined in male-dominated fields.

Enter Rafe Gallagher, who is hands-down one of my favorite parts of the book. He’s agreed to attend the corporate retreat but is not interested in following in his father’s footsteps or playing by the old rules. Instead, Rafe is determined to carve out his own path and pursue his creative passions. I loved how he supported Trishara and challenged the status quo, refusing to be part of the toxic culture that surrounds them. Their chemistry is undeniable even though they started out as workplace rivals, and their banter brought a much-needed spark to the story.

What really stood out to me was the way Trishara handled the issues she faced at work. She kept a file of all the problems and injustices, but instead of speaking up, she bottled everything up until she finally reached her breaking point at a company retreat. While this was incredibly realistic, so many of us keep quiet until we just can’t anymore, I found myself wishing the story had spent a little more time exploring what happened when she finally released all that information. The aftermath felt a bit rushed, and I would have loved to see the fallout and her growth play out in more detail.

That said, Not Safe for Work is an empowering read that doesn’t shy away from tough topics. It’s a story about finding your voice, standing up for yourself, and refusing to settle for less than you deserve, both in your career and your relationships. The romance is sweet and satisfying, and the ending, while a bit fast, left me rooting for both Trishara and Rafe as they chase after the lives they truly want.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a workplace romance with substance, enemies to lovers, or if you’re looking for a heroine who’s easy to cheer for and a hero who isn’t afraid to break the mold. Also- I know you were wondering, Not Safe for Work is just the right amount of spicy. Four and a half stars from me! Yet another addition to your summer TBR pile. Until next time, my friends, happy reading!