Review of Not Safe for Work by Nisha J. Tuli: A Sweet Escape in Paradise
I’ll admit it—Not Safe for Work caught my eye for multiple reasons. First off, who can resist a workplace romance set in the often male-dominated STEM field? Combine that with a South Asian female lead and a slow burn enemies-to-lovers trope, and I was all in. It’s not just a romance; it’s a vibrant exploration of the hurdles women face in their careers today, and Nisha J. Tuli’s romance debut did not disappoint!
Our leading lady, Trishara “Tris” Malik, is the first woman of color at her engineering firm, and her story is simultaneously refreshing and heartbreaking. As she grapples with the frustrations of nepotism and the struggle for recognition, I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. Tuli does an excellent job of encapsulating the realities many women face in STEM careers, reinforcing the need for more representation. Tris’s witty comebacks and fierce spirit kept me chuckling while also making me ponder the deeper societal issues layered in this lighthearted narrative.
Now, let’s talk about Rafe Gallagher, our male lead. To put it honestly, I wanted to love him more than I did. He’s undeniably charming, protective, and has some great banter with Tris, but I wished for a bit more depth beyond his family drama and “hot guy” persona. His character felt somewhat underdeveloped, which left me wanting to dive deeper into his psyche and motivations. The tension between him and Tris is palpable, fueled by chemistry that burns hotter than the Hawaiian sun where they are stuck together. The physical attraction is definitely there—the slow burn definitely pays off in the latter sections of the book, culminating in a delightfully steamy epilogue that had me smiling ear-to-ear.
Tuli’s writing is engaging and witty—she creates a believable romance that feels earned rather than rushed. The pacing is breezy and fun; I found myself flipping through the pages, eager to unearth what misunderstandings and revelations would unfold next. Furthermore, that moment when Rafe confesses, "Tris, you are the most amazing woman I’ve ever met…" is something I’m going to hold onto—what a powerhouse encapsulation of love and admiration!
Of course, while the romance and character dynamics take center stage, I appreciated Tuli’s subtle nods to the strong backbone of adversity her characters face. The author’s note reveals that elements of the story are drawn from her own experiences as an engineer, and it adds an undeniable layer of authenticity to the narrative. It’s a reminder of how paramount it is for our workplaces to foster environments where everyone can feel safe and respected.
Overall, Not Safe for Work is an enjoyable rom-com that will resonate with readers who appreciate strong female leads navigating their careers while finding love. It’s a compelling read for not just romance aficionados but also anyone championing the cause of women in STEM. I’m excited to see what Nisha J. Tuli conjures up next, because if this debut is any indication of her storytelling prowess, we’re in for a treat!
This charming and socially aware gem is available starting today—Happy Publishing Day, Not Safe for Work! I’ve found my new go-to recommendation for readers looking for a delightful, engaging story with a dash of real-world insight. Trust me, this one is not to be missed!