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jaihook's Reviews (389)
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slow-paced
Rating: 2.5 ⭐️ (rounded down to 2)
Spice: 1.5-2🌶️
I had high hopes going into Not Safe for Work—the setup is rich with tropes I usually love: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and the classic one-bed situation. Add in a woman of color navigating the corporate boys’ club? Sign me up. But sadly, this one didn’t quite land for me.
While the banter between Tris and Rafe was enjoyable at first, the pacing really dragged. The one-bed moment, which should have been a highlight, fell flat. Honestly, for two characters supposedly in their 30s, their behavior often read like early-20s emotional immaturity—especially around conflict and communication. I did appreciate the exploration of Tris's challenges as a woman of color in a predominantly white corporate space—those moments had authenticity and heart.
I wish this had been written in dual POV, especially since the audio narration was strong and could have carried both voices well. Unfortunately, what could’ve been a sharp, tropey rom-com with depth turned into a bit of a slog for me.
Thank you to Forever and Hachette Audio for the ARC and ALC. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
Spice: 1.5-2🌶️
I had high hopes going into Not Safe for Work—the setup is rich with tropes I usually love: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and the classic one-bed situation. Add in a woman of color navigating the corporate boys’ club? Sign me up. But sadly, this one didn’t quite land for me.
While the banter between Tris and Rafe was enjoyable at first, the pacing really dragged. The one-bed moment, which should have been a highlight, fell flat. Honestly, for two characters supposedly in their 30s, their behavior often read like early-20s emotional immaturity—especially around conflict and communication. I did appreciate the exploration of Tris's challenges as a woman of color in a predominantly white corporate space—those moments had authenticity and heart.
I wish this had been written in dual POV, especially since the audio narration was strong and could have carried both voices well. Unfortunately, what could’ve been a sharp, tropey rom-com with depth turned into a bit of a slog for me.
Thank you to Forever and Hachette Audio for the ARC and ALC. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Now this is how you kick off a new series! Kendra Elliot delivers a thrilling and suspenseful ride in Her First Mistake, seamlessly blending the past with present-day investigations. Noelle Marshall is a standout lead—tough, layered, and impossible not to root for. I loved watching her character unfold as her past collided with a chilling new look into her husband’s murder.
Even better? Cameos from other familiar faces in Elliot’s universe made this even more satisfying for longtime fans. I haven't finished the Columbia River series, so this was my first time meeting Noelle—and what an introduction!
The mystery kept me guessing with a cast of unlikeable suspects and a few truly unexpected turns. The audiobook narration was excellent, adding even more depth to an already engaging story. Also, the connection between Noelle and Special Agent Max Rhodes? Yes, please. I'm absolutely hoping we see more of him in Book 2.
Highly recommended for fans of twisty suspense and strong female leads. I’m already counting down to the next one!
Thank you Brilliance Publishing/Brilliance Audio and Montlake for the ARC and ALC! Thoughts and opinions are my own.
