What do you think?
Rate this book
Barely Barred
Avery Anders thought the bar exam would be the hardest thing she'd face until her law school sweetheart dumped her before the finish line. Now, newly barred and nursing a broken heart, she's stepping into her first big attorney job and directly into the center of a very complicated workplace triangle.
Jameson Sterling is her powerful, polished, and dangerously self-controlled boss. He shouldn't be interested in her. But every glance, every moment of tension-laced silence between them says otherwise.
Then there's Nash Collins, the firm's reckless and infuriatingly charming paralegal who doesn't play by the rules and makes Avery forget hers entirely. Younger, wilder, and completely unapologetic in his pursuit, Nash is the kind of temptation Avery knows she should resist but can't.
As Avery navigates high-stakes cases, impossible expectations, and the ruthless world of law, she finds herself falling for two men she can't have. The deeper she falls, the more the lines blur between right and wrong, pleasure and consequence. And when secrets begin to unravel, she'll have to make a choice between the career she's worked for, the men she's fallen for, and the woman she's becoming.
Sharp, sultry, and emotionally charged, Barely Barred is a story of ambition, desire, and one woman's fight to finally put herself first.
Jameson Sterling is her powerful, polished, and dangerously self-controlled boss. He shouldn't be interested in her. But every glance, every moment of tension-laced silence between them says otherwise.
Then there's Nash Collins, the firm's reckless and infuriatingly charming paralegal who doesn't play by the rules and makes Avery forget hers entirely. Younger, wilder, and completely unapologetic in his pursuit, Nash is the kind of temptation Avery knows she should resist but can't.
As Avery navigates high-stakes cases, impossible expectations, and the ruthless world of law, she finds herself falling for two men she can't have. The deeper she falls, the more the lines blur between right and wrong, pleasure and consequence. And when secrets begin to unravel, she'll have to make a choice between the career she's worked for, the men she's fallen for, and the woman she's becoming.
Sharp, sultry, and emotionally charged, Barely Barred is a story of ambition, desire, and one woman's fight to finally put herself first.
- GenresRomanceForced Proximity
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 17, 2025
9 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
December 7, 2025
Okay with further thought I am going to write my review before release simply because it needs to be said. The author had received feedback from early readers, and still never chose to market this book properly, or change the ending, so sorry in advance...
The good:
the writing was very well done. Leigh definitely has a talent to write a book that I simply couldn't put down. It was fast paced, the characters were very likable, and overall the story kept me hooked. I loved how this was very much Avery (our FMC) making choices for herself & her career. you know I love a badass FMC. I literally couldn't put it down because I wanted to know how Avery's love story ended...
The Bad:
It was advertised as a love triangle...I expected more angst & emotion. That being said, if you want to dabble with a low angst love triangle with no super emotional feels, than this is your book.
The Ugly:
The love story. That's it. I actually feel incredibly robbed with the ending. Full disclosure, spoiler if you will...this book ends with no HEA. I'm a romance reader...this is not a romance. This was a woman's fiction. If I had known I definitely wouldn't have chosen to ARC read this book. There needs to be better marketing for this book, there was zero mention of it being a non HEA, I double checked making sure it wasn't an error on my behalf.
In my honest opinion, IF this book had an HEA I would have probably given 4-4.5 ⭐ but since I felt robbed of my experience I cannot in good faith rate it any higher than a 3⭐
If you are okay with no HEA then I definitely recommend this book to you.
Tropes:
Workplace Romance
Love Triangle
Forced Proximity
Non HEA
Singular POV
The good:
the writing was very well done. Leigh definitely has a talent to write a book that I simply couldn't put down. It was fast paced, the characters were very likable, and overall the story kept me hooked. I loved how this was very much Avery (our FMC) making choices for herself & her career. you know I love a badass FMC. I literally couldn't put it down because I wanted to know how Avery's love story ended...
The Bad:
It was advertised as a love triangle...I expected more angst & emotion. That being said, if you want to dabble with a low angst love triangle with no super emotional feels, than this is your book.
The Ugly:
The love story. That's it. I actually feel incredibly robbed with the ending. Full disclosure, spoiler if you will...this book ends with no HEA. I'm a romance reader...this is not a romance. This was a woman's fiction. If I had known I definitely wouldn't have chosen to ARC read this book. There needs to be better marketing for this book, there was zero mention of it being a non HEA, I double checked making sure it wasn't an error on my behalf.
In my honest opinion, IF this book had an HEA I would have probably given 4-4.5 ⭐ but since I felt robbed of my experience I cannot in good faith rate it any higher than a 3⭐
If you are okay with no HEA then I definitely recommend this book to you.
Tropes:
Workplace Romance
Love Triangle
Forced Proximity
Non HEA
Singular POV
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2025
I was fortunate to see the author's post on social media clearing the air about this book, so I do think if you're going to pick this up, you should be aware that this is a love triangle—not why choose—and that it has an unconventional HEA.
Barely Barred is a really solid debut—Leigh Laurence's prose is really beautiful and captivating at times, and I overall enjoyed journeying with Avery as she juggled her situationships with James and Nash. I felt like this was more women's fiction than a romance, which I realize is something people say when romance novels are more story-heavy instead of smutty, but no, this was smut-heavy with no love story. The characters *say* the word love, but what I got from this was more of a lusty, fun time with a FMC who is on her own journey of self-discovery, torn between which guy she wants to sleep with more (even though it's kind of really obvious).
I actually happened to like the ending! I thought it was a bit sudden in its execution, and again, I felt like the person she was leaning towards made sense (despite not buying a love connection being present at the end), but I was satisfied with the unconventionality of it. Avery still had a lot more growing and learning to do, and she needed to dig her heels down more in her career in order for me to feel like her arc of self-discovery was complete or at least hit an 180. The scenes in the courtroom or focusing on the workday in a law firm were interesting—I'm not an attorney so don't ask me if they're accurate.
There were some things that felt really inconsistent. The pacing flew by weeks at a time, to the point I wasn't sure what time of year I was in unless it was explicitly mentioned. I knew exactly what one MMC looked like down to his eye color and only knew the other one had tattoos. One MMC seemingly gets into a motorcycle accident (or is roughed up by someone) but it is ominously left unsaid. Avery had a really solid best friend in Mina and hit her up when she needed to drink or shop, but not when she bombed her case and needed someone to lean on. I had no idea what Mina looked like despite the fact that I'm almost certain she's a person of color going off her name (Amina Hassan) and her hair being described as coily, which makes her feel underutilized as a safe space for the FMC, and underdeveloped as a POC. Avery bombs her big case, but at one point it's said that she has a lot of cases—she completely seems to blow them off or they're not mentioned again so it felt like a bit of a gap in the career subplot.
As an aside (and perhaps these are inconsequential complaints for many readers) but I don't like when FMCs participate in disordered eating to the point that their loved ones notice weight loss but it's never named as such. I don't care for when characters go on the "I'm clean" journey when discussing sexual health (I also think it's poor sexual health to not disclose to the people you're sleeping with that you're sleeping with other people). I also really disliked that a working woman who struggled to juggle career and family pressed Avery about having kids, or that the only on-page conversation with Avery's mother ended with her pressing Avery about getting married and having kids. I read an ARC; there wasn't an acknowledgments section so I have no way of knowing for sure if one was used, but I think most of my gripes could've been addressed by a sensitivity reader.
I feel like this would've worked for me more if it expanded more on the self-discovery journey, because, as it stands, this read as someone doing self-discovery through sex—which isn't bad, per se, but it's also not a love story. Even the spice fell victim to the ~and then time passed~ pacing of the story, so I didn't feel like I had a good grip on that either.
Preston (Princeton? Presley? I tried to forget his name) the ex deserved nothing but failure and punches in the mouth, but here we are.
This review turned out to be quite long for such a short book, and it might be hard to believe, but I did enjoy it overall. I look forward to seeing how Laurence grows as an author, and I do recommend this book to people who like mess and drama as much as I do!
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the ARC!
3.5 ⭐️s
3 🌶️
Barely Barred is a really solid debut—Leigh Laurence's prose is really beautiful and captivating at times, and I overall enjoyed journeying with Avery as she juggled her situationships with James and Nash. I felt like this was more women's fiction than a romance, which I realize is something people say when romance novels are more story-heavy instead of smutty, but no, this was smut-heavy with no love story. The characters *say* the word love, but what I got from this was more of a lusty, fun time with a FMC who is on her own journey of self-discovery, torn between which guy she wants to sleep with more (even though it's kind of really obvious).
I actually happened to like the ending! I thought it was a bit sudden in its execution, and again, I felt like the person she was leaning towards made sense (despite not buying a love connection being present at the end), but I was satisfied with the unconventionality of it. Avery still had a lot more growing and learning to do, and she needed to dig her heels down more in her career in order for me to feel like her arc of self-discovery was complete or at least hit an 180. The scenes in the courtroom or focusing on the workday in a law firm were interesting—I'm not an attorney so don't ask me if they're accurate.
There were some things that felt really inconsistent. The pacing flew by weeks at a time, to the point I wasn't sure what time of year I was in unless it was explicitly mentioned. I knew exactly what one MMC looked like down to his eye color and only knew the other one had tattoos. One MMC seemingly gets into a motorcycle accident (or is roughed up by someone) but it is ominously left unsaid. Avery had a really solid best friend in Mina and hit her up when she needed to drink or shop, but not when she bombed her case and needed someone to lean on. I had no idea what Mina looked like despite the fact that I'm almost certain she's a person of color going off her name (Amina Hassan) and her hair being described as coily, which makes her feel underutilized as a safe space for the FMC, and underdeveloped as a POC. Avery bombs her big case, but at one point it's said that she has a lot of cases—she completely seems to blow them off or they're not mentioned again so it felt like a bit of a gap in the career subplot.
As an aside (and perhaps these are inconsequential complaints for many readers) but I don't like when FMCs participate in disordered eating to the point that their loved ones notice weight loss but it's never named as such. I don't care for when characters go on the "I'm clean" journey when discussing sexual health (I also think it's poor sexual health to not disclose to the people you're sleeping with that you're sleeping with other people). I also really disliked that a working woman who struggled to juggle career and family pressed Avery about having kids, or that the only on-page conversation with Avery's mother ended with her pressing Avery about getting married and having kids. I read an ARC; there wasn't an acknowledgments section so I have no way of knowing for sure if one was used, but I think most of my gripes could've been addressed by a sensitivity reader.
I feel like this would've worked for me more if it expanded more on the self-discovery journey, because, as it stands, this read as someone doing self-discovery through sex—which isn't bad, per se, but it's also not a love story. Even the spice fell victim to the ~and then time passed~ pacing of the story, so I didn't feel like I had a good grip on that either.
Preston (Princeton? Presley? I tried to forget his name) the ex deserved nothing but failure and punches in the mouth, but here we are.
This review turned out to be quite long for such a short book, and it might be hard to believe, but I did enjoy it overall. I look forward to seeing how Laurence grows as an author, and I do recommend this book to people who like mess and drama as much as I do!
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the ARC!
3.5 ⭐️s
3 🌶️
December 17, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Barely Barred
By: Leigh Laurence
I slide the last file back into its folder and stare at the ceiling, trying to reconstruct what success was supposed to look like, because it’s definitely not me, half-seduced by my own paralegal and salivating after my boss.
Nash isn’t even my type: too reckless, too eager, too much. But tonight he made me feel something I hadn’t realized I was starving for. Someone who doesn’t just want me, but needs to prove it, needs to outdo every other man who’s ever touched me.
If Nash is fire, James is a slow burn. Both dangerous, both hard to resist.
I knew this book would be good just from the tropes. I just had no idea how deliciously addicting it would be! Sitting here kicking my feet so giddy, trying to figure out who Avery will end up with. We have James who is Avery’s boss, he’s broody and intense, and the sex is hot! Then there is Nash who is Avery’s paralegal, and a gold retriever MMC, and the sex is gentle and caring. And lastly there is Avery, the woman stuck between these two hot men, sleeping with both of them. Who has feelings for both of these wonderful men and has no idea what she is going to do. Such a great debut read from Leigh Laurence!! I loved it!
Tropes:
Office Romance
Love Triangle
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
Spice starts at: 32%
Spice: 3/4
Stars: 4.5/5
Available on Kindle December 17th
Barely Barred
By: Leigh Laurence
I slide the last file back into its folder and stare at the ceiling, trying to reconstruct what success was supposed to look like, because it’s definitely not me, half-seduced by my own paralegal and salivating after my boss.
Nash isn’t even my type: too reckless, too eager, too much. But tonight he made me feel something I hadn’t realized I was starving for. Someone who doesn’t just want me, but needs to prove it, needs to outdo every other man who’s ever touched me.
If Nash is fire, James is a slow burn. Both dangerous, both hard to resist.
I knew this book would be good just from the tropes. I just had no idea how deliciously addicting it would be! Sitting here kicking my feet so giddy, trying to figure out who Avery will end up with. We have James who is Avery’s boss, he’s broody and intense, and the sex is hot! Then there is Nash who is Avery’s paralegal, and a gold retriever MMC, and the sex is gentle and caring. And lastly there is Avery, the woman stuck between these two hot men, sleeping with both of them. Who has feelings for both of these wonderful men and has no idea what she is going to do. Such a great debut read from Leigh Laurence!! I loved it!
Tropes:
Office Romance
Love Triangle
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
Spice starts at: 32%
Spice: 3/4
Stars: 4.5/5
Available on Kindle December 17th
December 9, 2025
Okay, I really liked this. It was messy and love triangel-y. Which I typically love…The plot was great, I liked the pacing and length. There was real legal jargon, which I appreciated.
WITH that being said…….(and sorry this has now turned into a venting ramble)
I feel the wool was pulled over my eyes with that ending and I do not appreciate it lol the longer I think about it the angrier that ending and epilogue make me lol
For what that was *I can’t say cause it’s a spoiler* (but at this point I’ve edited this review enough that I basically have said, it’s an untraditional HEA) it should have been marketed better….but I think they knew if they marketed it that way the majority of people wouldn’t read it…if you catch my drift…
Not until December 7th did the author market anything to say it was an unconventional HEA. That is where this whole review stems from and if you don’t like it I truly could not care less. Go touch some grass.
If you do not like love triangles DO NOT READ THIS. IT IS NOT A WHY CHOOSE. I REPEAT NOT A WHY CHOOSE 🤣 (because it apparently needs to be stated why I mentioned why choose on my OWN review) if you happen to jump into books not paying attention to tropes….it is NOT a why choose or MFM situation. And honestly as I write this I’m real mad about it cause it would have been a real good one lol which for the record even though it didn’t end how I’d
Had hoped I still would have rated it higher and wouldn’t have said a peep IF it had been marketed an unconventional HEA. But it wasn’t.
It should be noted I read from 40 % to the end in one sitting cause I wanted to know what happened and the writing was great…..
*update- please don’t mansplain what a why choose is. I know what it is. But the tropes given and cover give a different vibe. Readers should know that it is not giving what is advertised. I would have never requested this ARC if I knew. Because I know what a love triangle is, and while this did have a love triangle in it, this did not have traditional HEA and that was not marketed correctly! That’s all I’m saying! *
WITH that being said…….(and sorry this has now turned into a venting ramble)
I feel the wool was pulled over my eyes with that ending and I do not appreciate it lol the longer I think about it the angrier that ending and epilogue make me lol
For what that was *I can’t say cause it’s a spoiler* (but at this point I’ve edited this review enough that I basically have said, it’s an untraditional HEA) it should have been marketed better….but I think they knew if they marketed it that way the majority of people wouldn’t read it…if you catch my drift…
Not until December 7th did the author market anything to say it was an unconventional HEA. That is where this whole review stems from and if you don’t like it I truly could not care less. Go touch some grass.
If you do not like love triangles DO NOT READ THIS. IT IS NOT A WHY CHOOSE. I REPEAT NOT A WHY CHOOSE 🤣 (because it apparently needs to be stated why I mentioned why choose on my OWN review) if you happen to jump into books not paying attention to tropes….it is NOT a why choose or MFM situation. And honestly as I write this I’m real mad about it cause it would have been a real good one lol which for the record even though it didn’t end how I’d
Had hoped I still would have rated it higher and wouldn’t have said a peep IF it had been marketed an unconventional HEA. But it wasn’t.
It should be noted I read from 40 % to the end in one sitting cause I wanted to know what happened and the writing was great…..
*update- please don’t mansplain what a why choose is. I know what it is. But the tropes given and cover give a different vibe. Readers should know that it is not giving what is advertised. I would have never requested this ARC if I knew. Because I know what a love triangle is, and while this did have a love triangle in it, this did not have traditional HEA and that was not marketed correctly! That’s all I’m saying! *
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨
I devoured Barely Barred in a single day, which should tell you everything you need to know about how hooked I was. For a debut romance, this book nails the office-romance fantasy with forbidden love, forced proximity, and tension you can taste. And yes, I was fully giggling and kicking my feet because our girl Avery can absolutely GET ITTT.
I was low-key envious and at the same time rooting for her the entire time. The stakes feel even higher with the law-firm setting where every look, every slip, and every choice has real consequences. If you’re a young millennial professional who wants a little “what if…” escapism in a workplace romance, this book hits the spot.
Another thing I loved was the emphasis on girlhood through Avery’s friendship with Mina. Their dynamic felt real and supportive, and I saw so much of myself in Mina’s role as the friend who hypes you up. I always enjoy romance books where the BFF is a source of confidence and grounding, and this one delivered that beautifully.
What really stood out to me is that the story never loses sight of Avery herself. This isn’t a romance where the MMCs swallow the plot. Though, the dynamic between Jameson and Nash is deliciously messy, and Avery’s growth is what ties the whole book together. I will say that I would have loved to explore more background and emotional depth between Avery, Nash, and James to intensify the connection and her pull toward both men, but even without that, the tension still delivered.
It is mature without being stuffy, fun without being over-the-top, and full of those “oh no… oh YES” moments that make you kick your feet and whisper “girl, don’t do it… actually wait, DO IT. DO IT FOR THE PLOT!!”
If you love
• Office Romance
• Love Triangles
• Forbidden, tension-drenched moments
• A heroine choosing herself first
• Ride-or-die BFF energy
This one deserves a spot on your TBR.
I devoured Barely Barred in a single day, which should tell you everything you need to know about how hooked I was. For a debut romance, this book nails the office-romance fantasy with forbidden love, forced proximity, and tension you can taste. And yes, I was fully giggling and kicking my feet because our girl Avery can absolutely GET ITTT.
I was low-key envious and at the same time rooting for her the entire time. The stakes feel even higher with the law-firm setting where every look, every slip, and every choice has real consequences. If you’re a young millennial professional who wants a little “what if…” escapism in a workplace romance, this book hits the spot.
Another thing I loved was the emphasis on girlhood through Avery’s friendship with Mina. Their dynamic felt real and supportive, and I saw so much of myself in Mina’s role as the friend who hypes you up. I always enjoy romance books where the BFF is a source of confidence and grounding, and this one delivered that beautifully.
What really stood out to me is that the story never loses sight of Avery herself. This isn’t a romance where the MMCs swallow the plot. Though, the dynamic between Jameson and Nash is deliciously messy, and Avery’s growth is what ties the whole book together. I will say that I would have loved to explore more background and emotional depth between Avery, Nash, and James to intensify the connection and her pull toward both men, but even without that, the tension still delivered.
It is mature without being stuffy, fun without being over-the-top, and full of those “oh no… oh YES” moments that make you kick your feet and whisper “girl, don’t do it… actually wait, DO IT. DO IT FOR THE PLOT!!”
If you love
• Office Romance
• Love Triangles
• Forbidden, tension-drenched moments
• A heroine choosing herself first
• Ride-or-die BFF energy
This one deserves a spot on your TBR.
January 16, 2026
This story follows Avery, who’s navigating a recent breakup while starting fresh at a new law firm to focus on her career. But she soon finds herself caught between two temptations keeping things strictly casual, nothing more. But what happens when it starts to feel like more?
Jumping straight into this and please be mindful there may be potential spoilers.
For a debut novel, I’m impressed. I want to start by saying there was absolutely no need for the disclaimer about this being an unconventional HEA. Love triangles are messy for a reason, and not everything in life wraps up perfectly. I really enjoyed the ending, and by the time I reached the epilogue, I felt hopeful and happy for Avery. It wasn’t the typical cookie cutter HEA of engagement, marriage, or pregnancy and honestly, I don’t need that every time. This felt different and refreshing.
I loved both James and Nash. James was more my personal style controlling, broody, grumpy, and always watching from across the room. Nash, on the other hand, was fun, flirty, playful, and gave total golden retriever energy. I appreciated how clear it was from the start that everything was casual. Avery never strung either of them along she simply enjoyed their company for what it was.
When it came time for her to choose, I was proud of her decision. Waiting 14 months after everything settled before potentially trying again really showed her strength and emotional maturity. You could feel how hard it was for her to walk away, but even with that door closing in the moment, there was still hope for the future and I felt happy for her.
Overall, I think this was a fantastic take on a love triangle. I will say, as a slow burn girl, it did feel fast paced for my taste, but that’s purely personal preference. The story leaned more character-driven, focusing mainly on the love triangle, her career, and moments catching up with her best friend about her love life. But it was an enjoyable debut novel to read and the cover is absolutely stunning so props to the cover artist.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of Leigh’s work in the future!
SIDE NOTE: Also I keep seeing reviews about the cover which is so fascinating to me. The cover depicts a love triangle she is between two men. It was advertised as love triangle. This cover does not depict or look like a WHY CHOOSE at all. There is only two men in this book which it could depict the trope menage. With love triangles she either chooses one or herself. The term reverse harem 3+ more men was changed to the term Why Choose in 2020 as reverse harem was harmful to a certain culture and race. Do the research.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 283
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️.5
POV: First and Single
Series or Standalone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Love Triangle, Workplace, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Possessive MMC, Jealousy, Sneaking Around, Debut Novel, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Taken Bare, Eyes On Me, On Your Knees, Public Play and Outside Scene and Office Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
Jumping straight into this and please be mindful there may be potential spoilers.
For a debut novel, I’m impressed. I want to start by saying there was absolutely no need for the disclaimer about this being an unconventional HEA. Love triangles are messy for a reason, and not everything in life wraps up perfectly. I really enjoyed the ending, and by the time I reached the epilogue, I felt hopeful and happy for Avery. It wasn’t the typical cookie cutter HEA of engagement, marriage, or pregnancy and honestly, I don’t need that every time. This felt different and refreshing.
I loved both James and Nash. James was more my personal style controlling, broody, grumpy, and always watching from across the room. Nash, on the other hand, was fun, flirty, playful, and gave total golden retriever energy. I appreciated how clear it was from the start that everything was casual. Avery never strung either of them along she simply enjoyed their company for what it was.
When it came time for her to choose, I was proud of her decision. Waiting 14 months after everything settled before potentially trying again really showed her strength and emotional maturity. You could feel how hard it was for her to walk away, but even with that door closing in the moment, there was still hope for the future and I felt happy for her.
Overall, I think this was a fantastic take on a love triangle. I will say, as a slow burn girl, it did feel fast paced for my taste, but that’s purely personal preference. The story leaned more character-driven, focusing mainly on the love triangle, her career, and moments catching up with her best friend about her love life. But it was an enjoyable debut novel to read and the cover is absolutely stunning so props to the cover artist.
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of Leigh’s work in the future!
SIDE NOTE: Also I keep seeing reviews about the cover which is so fascinating to me. The cover depicts a love triangle she is between two men. It was advertised as love triangle. This cover does not depict or look like a WHY CHOOSE at all. There is only two men in this book which it could depict the trope menage. With love triangles she either chooses one or herself. The term reverse harem 3+ more men was changed to the term Why Choose in 2020 as reverse harem was harmful to a certain culture and race. Do the research.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 283
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️.5
POV: First and Single
Series or Standalone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Love Triangle, Workplace, Forbidden, Forced Proximity, Possessive MMC, Jealousy, Sneaking Around, Debut Novel, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Taken Bare, Eyes On Me, On Your Knees, Public Play and Outside Scene and Office Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2025
I was super excited to receive an ARC of this book!
The story was amazing, the spice was on point and the character development between James, Nash & Avery is so sweet and super fast paced.
I wish there was more in depth background with the 2 guys and we heard from them a bit more than we did but the little we did know you can’t help but love them both.
Overall really awesome book and I highly recommend reading it!
The story was amazing, the spice was on point and the character development between James, Nash & Avery is so sweet and super fast paced.
I wish there was more in depth background with the 2 guys and we heard from them a bit more than we did but the little we did know you can’t help but love them both.
Overall really awesome book and I highly recommend reading it!
December 17, 2025
✨Arc Review✨ 4.0-4.5 stars ⭐️
Okay let’s talk about this book!
Basically what this book talks about is about Avery, how she was so heart broken from Pierce and couldn’t afford to fall in love again with someone. But boom 💥 she enters this new office where she’s supposed to start over. And her boss James is not helping with that neither is her paralegal. Eventually both of them (James and Nash) start flirting one thing gets to the other and things happen with both of them. James ends up catching feelings for her and so does Nash but Nash is like the flirtiest person ever sooo freaking cute. While she just enjoys it, not admitting to herself she was in love with both of them. At one point whenever she loses her trial she’s brought to the office with Sterlings father and other coworkers in which they’re basically telling her how she’s messing up the company since she lost the trial and everything goes downhill since James stood after her. His father suspected things were happening so they were both called out for it. Rumors starting going around the office and eventually everything got weird. It got even worse whenever they had a mandatory conference with all the attorneys and coworkers. She went in this red dress that it was to impress and Nash and James were technically after her. When Avery decided to go to her room both of them started knocking at her door without her knowing and this is exactly the part what I was waiting for and I didn’t get! 🫤 the both confess their love to her and start kissing her after one another and honestly like I could imagine that heated moment. Until they both left the rooms after she saying she had to think about it. Then texting both of them and meeting them at a coffee shop and basically telling them she choose herself.
Right after that was the epilogue like GIRL what?????
Basically saying how she had been doing the last six months, she went to go grab some food from the hotels bar and found James. Where he asks about Nash and she answers him and since he’s not longer working at his fathers company he asks her if she’s seeing anyone she answers no. He deadass asks would you like to see me. And you could imagine the answer by now. And the end like WTFFFFF. 🫥
Tbh this book had me hooooooked and I’m sooo sorry for the little(not so little) summary I gave, but to my defense the book was going so good. Like I could imagine every single little detail until the ending. Like is there a series to this? Is there more? Because I want more of it even if it’s a couple chapter like I wanna know if they hooked up or if they ended up being a couple. I wanna know more about Nash. There was not HEA. And that was the sad part of it.
I swear I could have imagined a Happy ending! Idk more like she slept with both of them that night at the hotel room. I honestly was hoping for that.
My final thoughts:
Overall I still give this book 4.0-4.5 stars. I loved it but didn’t love the ending. If you love tension, not HEA, character driven romance this book could be for you! I honestly think you should give it a chance and make up your own mind about it. ☺️
Okay let’s talk about this book!
Basically what this book talks about is about Avery, how she was so heart broken from Pierce and couldn’t afford to fall in love again with someone. But boom 💥 she enters this new office where she’s supposed to start over. And her boss James is not helping with that neither is her paralegal. Eventually both of them (James and Nash) start flirting one thing gets to the other and things happen with both of them. James ends up catching feelings for her and so does Nash but Nash is like the flirtiest person ever sooo freaking cute. While she just enjoys it, not admitting to herself she was in love with both of them. At one point whenever she loses her trial she’s brought to the office with Sterlings father and other coworkers in which they’re basically telling her how she’s messing up the company since she lost the trial and everything goes downhill since James stood after her. His father suspected things were happening so they were both called out for it. Rumors starting going around the office and eventually everything got weird. It got even worse whenever they had a mandatory conference with all the attorneys and coworkers. She went in this red dress that it was to impress and Nash and James were technically after her. When Avery decided to go to her room both of them started knocking at her door without her knowing and this is exactly the part what I was waiting for and I didn’t get! 🫤 the both confess their love to her and start kissing her after one another and honestly like I could imagine that heated moment. Until they both left the rooms after she saying she had to think about it. Then texting both of them and meeting them at a coffee shop and basically telling them she choose herself.
Right after that was the epilogue like GIRL what?????
Basically saying how she had been doing the last six months, she went to go grab some food from the hotels bar and found James. Where he asks about Nash and she answers him and since he’s not longer working at his fathers company he asks her if she’s seeing anyone she answers no. He deadass asks would you like to see me. And you could imagine the answer by now. And the end like WTFFFFF. 🫥
Tbh this book had me hooooooked and I’m sooo sorry for the little(not so little) summary I gave, but to my defense the book was going so good. Like I could imagine every single little detail until the ending. Like is there a series to this? Is there more? Because I want more of it even if it’s a couple chapter like I wanna know if they hooked up or if they ended up being a couple. I wanna know more about Nash. There was not HEA. And that was the sad part of it.
I swear I could have imagined a Happy ending! Idk more like she slept with both of them that night at the hotel room. I honestly was hoping for that.
My final thoughts:
Overall I still give this book 4.0-4.5 stars. I loved it but didn’t love the ending. If you love tension, not HEA, character driven romance this book could be for you! I honestly think you should give it a chance and make up your own mind about it. ☺️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2025
Huge thank you to Luna literary management and to the author for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest and spoiler free review.
Barely Barred follows the life of Avery Anders, a girl who has stepped into her first big attorney job at a well established law firm. Upon her first day there, not only is she given a high end job, she slowly starts to find herself stuck in the middle of a little love triangle.
I haven’t read anything by Leigh Laurence before but this book was so addictive! I was captured from the very beginning and found myself on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen between Avery, James and Nash. This author did an amazing job of creating a love triangle that felt beautiful and fun all at the same time. Both men were so great towards Avery and I honestly didn’t know what she was going to decide on until closer to the end. I also loved that this author put such an importance on friendship between Avery and her dear friend Mina and I also loved the message of choosing yourself over every one else. The spice was great and I just really enjoyed everything overall as it was a great workplace romance.
Barely Barred follows the life of Avery Anders, a girl who has stepped into her first big attorney job at a well established law firm. Upon her first day there, not only is she given a high end job, she slowly starts to find herself stuck in the middle of a little love triangle.
I haven’t read anything by Leigh Laurence before but this book was so addictive! I was captured from the very beginning and found myself on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen between Avery, James and Nash. This author did an amazing job of creating a love triangle that felt beautiful and fun all at the same time. Both men were so great towards Avery and I honestly didn’t know what she was going to decide on until closer to the end. I also loved that this author put such an importance on friendship between Avery and her dear friend Mina and I also loved the message of choosing yourself over every one else. The spice was great and I just really enjoyed everything overall as it was a great workplace romance.
December 4, 2025
I received this as an ARC, and I devoured it in just a few hours because I honestly couldn’t put it down. I usually don’t love love triangles, but this one really worked for me. The dynamic between Avery, James, and Nash was fast-paced, sweet, and packed with just the right amount of spice.
I do wish we’d gotten a little more background and page time with the guys, but even with what we got, it was impossible not to fall for both of them. I felt Avery’s confusion and her pull toward each of them, and the way everything resolved felt right for her.
Beyond the romance and the heat, there’s a strong thread of self-discovery, healing, and new beginnings, which kept the story grounded. The workplace setting was fun, but most of the spice happens outside of it, which I actually preferred.
Overall, this was such an addictive, fast read and a solid 4-star romance for me. I’d definitely recommend it if you enjoy love triangles, career-driven heroines, and contemporary romance with some emotional depth.
I do wish we’d gotten a little more background and page time with the guys, but even with what we got, it was impossible not to fall for both of them. I felt Avery’s confusion and her pull toward each of them, and the way everything resolved felt right for her.
Beyond the romance and the heat, there’s a strong thread of self-discovery, healing, and new beginnings, which kept the story grounded. The workplace setting was fun, but most of the spice happens outside of it, which I actually preferred.
Overall, this was such an addictive, fast read and a solid 4-star romance for me. I’d definitely recommend it if you enjoy love triangles, career-driven heroines, and contemporary romance with some emotional depth.
December 16, 2025
For a debut romance, I devoured this book.
This book nails the office romance fantasy with forbidden love and tension you can taste.
Avery was my favorite FMC. I was rooting for her the whole time. Another thing I loved was the friendship between Avery and Mina. There friendship felt real and supportive. I love romance books that have that best friend who hypes you up and a source of confidence.
James is Avery’s boss. He’s your broody, intense MMC. The spice is hot
Then there’s Nash who’s Avery’s Paralegal who’s a golden retriever MMC and the spice is gentle and caring
Avery is stuck between two hot men sleeping with both of them. I loved the chemistry between two men and how they both care for Avery
This book nails the office romance fantasy with forbidden love and tension you can taste.
Avery was my favorite FMC. I was rooting for her the whole time. Another thing I loved was the friendship between Avery and Mina. There friendship felt real and supportive. I love romance books that have that best friend who hypes you up and a source of confidence.
James is Avery’s boss. He’s your broody, intense MMC. The spice is hot
Then there’s Nash who’s Avery’s Paralegal who’s a golden retriever MMC and the spice is gentle and caring
Avery is stuck between two hot men sleeping with both of them. I loved the chemistry between two men and how they both care for Avery
December 8, 2025
This was such a good time — solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read!
Tropes Included:
✨ Love Triangle
✨ Office Romance
✨ Forbidden
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ MMC Falls First (and hard 👀)
Avery steps into her new job at a prestigious law firm hoping for a fresh start… and immediately finds herself tangled in a deliciously complicated love triangle. And honestly? I don’t blame her — choosing would’ve been HARD. The tension gets messy, the chemistry gets spicy, and the pages fly by faster than you expect. I definitely thought the ending was heading somewhere else, but the way it wrapped up? Loved it.
Now let’s talk men…
Nash — the hot paralegal with a band, charm for days, and banter that snaps. He’s fun, unpredictable, and keeps Avery on her toes in the best ways.
James — the broody, buttoned-up, “everything in order” boss… until the door closes. Then?
🥵🥵 Babe, I FOLDED.
Overall, it was a quick, addictive read that gave me exactly what I wanted: spice, tension, chaos, and two men who made choosing impossible.
Tropes Included:
✨ Love Triangle
✨ Office Romance
✨ Forbidden
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ MMC Falls First (and hard 👀)
Avery steps into her new job at a prestigious law firm hoping for a fresh start… and immediately finds herself tangled in a deliciously complicated love triangle. And honestly? I don’t blame her — choosing would’ve been HARD. The tension gets messy, the chemistry gets spicy, and the pages fly by faster than you expect. I definitely thought the ending was heading somewhere else, but the way it wrapped up? Loved it.
Now let’s talk men…
Nash — the hot paralegal with a band, charm for days, and banter that snaps. He’s fun, unpredictable, and keeps Avery on her toes in the best ways.
James — the broody, buttoned-up, “everything in order” boss… until the door closes. Then?
🥵🥵 Babe, I FOLDED.
Overall, it was a quick, addictive read that gave me exactly what I wanted: spice, tension, chaos, and two men who made choosing impossible.
December 17, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
“If Nash is fire, James is a slow burn. Both dangerous, both hard to resist”
[ I did receive an arc and this is my honest review]
This book was soo good. This was my first love triangle and honestly I knew who I wanted Avery to be with in the end. I like Nash and James for two different reasons but nash was doing certain things that kinda rubbed me the wrong way and when he said that one thing he was done for. James on the other hand yes immediately he didn’t push her when she said no and it be the simple things that makes a woman fall in love. Now a lot of people don’t like the ending BUT ME PERSONALLY I loved it and I happy it happened!!
“If Nash is fire, James is a slow burn. Both dangerous, both hard to resist”
[ I did receive an arc and this is my honest review]
This book was soo good. This was my first love triangle and honestly I knew who I wanted Avery to be with in the end. I like Nash and James for two different reasons but nash was doing certain things that kinda rubbed me the wrong way and when he said that one thing he was done for. James on the other hand yes immediately he didn’t push her when she said no and it be the simple things that makes a woman fall in love. Now a lot of people don’t like the ending BUT ME PERSONALLY I loved it and I happy it happened!!
December 6, 2025
Once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. I love triangles and this one was great. Avery stayed true to herself even after having both guys. Nash was your younger more reckless type while James is all business. This was a fast paced story about love. This is great one if you like workplace love.
December 4, 2025
This was such a rollercoaster!! Will it be Nash, will it be James, how can she keep her career! Watching the relationships with each man grow and form was so sweet. The brightness and energy Nash brought was infectious, and the dark, demanding mood James brought was delicious. I loved watching Avery grow as a new lawyer and find herself throughout the story and the ending?? Didn’t see it coming but I am so glad that was the choice!
December 5, 2025
This was such a fun, fast-paced read!
Im a total sucker for a love triangle, the taboo nature of an office romance was the cherry on top! I may have screamed a little when they finally asked her to choose, but the decision she made was an unexpected, satisfying and absolutely perfect for the story.
Also a special shout out to Mina, we all deserve a friend like her!
Im a total sucker for a love triangle, the taboo nature of an office romance was the cherry on top! I may have screamed a little when they finally asked her to choose, but the decision she made was an unexpected, satisfying and absolutely perfect for the story.
Also a special shout out to Mina, we all deserve a friend like her!
December 4, 2025
This was a fun quick read I enjoyed also had me stressed through the book I felt as stressed as Avery felt going through this love triangle after going through her break up and having to eventually make a decision that might not have fully been what she wanted but she needed to what was best for her and it all ended up working in the end!
December 4, 2025
Such an amazing book I honestly think it’s my favorite book and I’m hoping there will be another one soon. I also wanna thank the author for this opportunity to read this book.
December 18, 2025
“If Nash is fire, James is a slow burn. Both dangerous, both hard to resist.“
First things first, i’m usually so iffy on love triangle romances (i’m slowly warming up to them with exposure therapy) but this one was so surprisingly amazing that I literally couldn’t put it down. My first impression of Leigh Laurence & her writing and I am in awe! I saw the cover and immediately knew I had to read it — something about it just called to me and my gut feeling never turns me wrong when it comes to a book that i know will hit me good in all the right places.
Barely Barred surprised me with how effortlessly Laurence balances gritty stakes with swoonworthy intimacy. It doesn’t feel like your typical love story, but actually so much more. The story thrives on tension — emotional and physical — and in fact WILL keep you up at night while whisper-reading to yourself just one more chapter. I’m ecstatic to find out this is a debut!!! Miss Laurence — I will be reading more of you in the future, you can count on that!! Everything about an office forbidden romance was nailed absolutely perfectly and the tension i felt the entire time was addictive and impeccable.
The true strength of the novel I found lies in the characters — they’re flawed, raw, all human and ultimately compelling in a way that feels both magnetic and cinematic. Laurence keeps the plot pulsing with urgency, leaving you constantly needing to know what happens next — and keep you on the edge of your chair asking yourself who the hell is she going to choose. The stakes themselves never feel fabricated. There’s a weight to the conflicts—personal, moral, physical—that steadily builds until you can practically feel the characters reaching their breaking points (and you, yourself will also reach that breaking point and then sit there in your couch freaking out until you get your answers).
“How is it possible to stand between two men who have seen me undone, who have rewritten the geography of my body and my rules of engagement, and still feel more alone than I ever have in my life? I’m unraveling.”
This book thrives on tension—romantic, psychological, and situational. Whether the characters are arguing, confronting their reality, their inner-selves or simply standing on opposite sides of a room, the energy between them is palpable. Laurence uses words unspoken, glances, and undeniable tension as weapons, building a kind of heat that doesn’t rely solely on steam, but on the slow burn of understanding and collision. Without a doubt, Barely Barred is the kind of book where your pulse picks up simply because the characters are looking at each other.
I beg yall to not let the fact that this novel is a love triangle to deter you from reading!!! it’s so amazing in its entirety - you WILL NOT regret this book, or James and Nash for a second 🤭
What to expect in Barely Barred:
⚖️ Forced Proximity
⚖️ Love Triangle
⚖️ Office Romance
⚖️ Plot heavy with Law
⚖️ Forbidden Romance
Thank you to Luna Literary & Leigh for letting me celebrate this release with you guys and letting me arc read this wonderful romance novel!! ❤️
Barely Barred releases Dec. 17th, 2025!
First things first, i’m usually so iffy on love triangle romances (i’m slowly warming up to them with exposure therapy) but this one was so surprisingly amazing that I literally couldn’t put it down. My first impression of Leigh Laurence & her writing and I am in awe! I saw the cover and immediately knew I had to read it — something about it just called to me and my gut feeling never turns me wrong when it comes to a book that i know will hit me good in all the right places.
Barely Barred surprised me with how effortlessly Laurence balances gritty stakes with swoonworthy intimacy. It doesn’t feel like your typical love story, but actually so much more. The story thrives on tension — emotional and physical — and in fact WILL keep you up at night while whisper-reading to yourself just one more chapter. I’m ecstatic to find out this is a debut!!! Miss Laurence — I will be reading more of you in the future, you can count on that!! Everything about an office forbidden romance was nailed absolutely perfectly and the tension i felt the entire time was addictive and impeccable.
The true strength of the novel I found lies in the characters — they’re flawed, raw, all human and ultimately compelling in a way that feels both magnetic and cinematic. Laurence keeps the plot pulsing with urgency, leaving you constantly needing to know what happens next — and keep you on the edge of your chair asking yourself who the hell is she going to choose. The stakes themselves never feel fabricated. There’s a weight to the conflicts—personal, moral, physical—that steadily builds until you can practically feel the characters reaching their breaking points (and you, yourself will also reach that breaking point and then sit there in your couch freaking out until you get your answers).
“How is it possible to stand between two men who have seen me undone, who have rewritten the geography of my body and my rules of engagement, and still feel more alone than I ever have in my life? I’m unraveling.”
This book thrives on tension—romantic, psychological, and situational. Whether the characters are arguing, confronting their reality, their inner-selves or simply standing on opposite sides of a room, the energy between them is palpable. Laurence uses words unspoken, glances, and undeniable tension as weapons, building a kind of heat that doesn’t rely solely on steam, but on the slow burn of understanding and collision. Without a doubt, Barely Barred is the kind of book where your pulse picks up simply because the characters are looking at each other.
I beg yall to not let the fact that this novel is a love triangle to deter you from reading!!! it’s so amazing in its entirety - you WILL NOT regret this book, or James and Nash for a second 🤭
What to expect in Barely Barred:
⚖️ Forced Proximity
⚖️ Love Triangle
⚖️ Office Romance
⚖️ Plot heavy with Law
⚖️ Forbidden Romance
Thank you to Luna Literary & Leigh for letting me celebrate this release with you guys and letting me arc read this wonderful romance novel!! ❤️
Barely Barred releases Dec. 17th, 2025!
December 22, 2025
Barely Barred -Leigh Laurence
Where do I begin? Wow. This book, fuck. This is hands down, one of the BEST books I have EVER read.
The characters, the plot, the storyline, the SPICE! This book has literally EVERYTHING. Avery, Jameson, and Nash are the best love triangle I have ever been part of and I wouldn't have had it any other way. You love the characters you are meant to and hate the characters you should... (IYKYK). This unconventional HEA
Is one of the best endings I have ever read.
The way Leigh describes everything is the most intense detail makes you feel like you are in the story. It's so easy to get lost in this book, that when you come back to reality, it's jarring. You can feel what they feel, and see what they see.
The way that I was captured from the first line to the the last is no joke. I will never stop raving about this book, and I will read this one over and over. Leigh is a master of her craft, and I am shocked to think that this is her debut novel. Leigh writes with the commanding presence of a seasoned author with dozens of titles under her belt. I can not wait to see what she does next!
Where do I begin? Wow. This book, fuck. This is hands down, one of the BEST books I have EVER read.
The characters, the plot, the storyline, the SPICE! This book has literally EVERYTHING. Avery, Jameson, and Nash are the best love triangle I have ever been part of and I wouldn't have had it any other way. You love the characters you are meant to and hate the characters you should... (IYKYK). This unconventional HEA
Is one of the best endings I have ever read.
The way Leigh describes everything is the most intense detail makes you feel like you are in the story. It's so easy to get lost in this book, that when you come back to reality, it's jarring. You can feel what they feel, and see what they see.
The way that I was captured from the first line to the the last is no joke. I will never stop raving about this book, and I will read this one over and over. Leigh is a master of her craft, and I am shocked to think that this is her debut novel. Leigh writes with the commanding presence of a seasoned author with dozens of titles under her belt. I can not wait to see what she does next!
December 9, 2025
Avery Anders has just gotten her dream job after a breakup and is putting herself first! She has quick developing attractions to not one but two people in her office, Nash her paralegal and James her boss. This is a love triangle romance, not a why choose, and what author states is a “non-conventional” HEA.
I enjoyed reading the FMC finding her strength and putting her own goals, wishes and career above everything else after being pushed to be small. The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and open door with a huge dose of sexual tension. I felt it was a fast paced book that didn’t drag on through the timeline but also felt this made the plot feel rushed and have almost holes where you missing huge sections of time where nothing has happened with the love interests. Considering it’s a love triangle, I felt there was a serious lack of angst, fury and even internal struggle considering the main theme trope. The ending just fell a little flat to me. Yes the extended epilogue has more answer but was more situational convenience rather than it being a decision the FMC character has come to herself.
I enjoyed reading the FMC finding her strength and putting her own goals, wishes and career above everything else after being pushed to be small. The spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and open door with a huge dose of sexual tension. I felt it was a fast paced book that didn’t drag on through the timeline but also felt this made the plot feel rushed and have almost holes where you missing huge sections of time where nothing has happened with the love interests. Considering it’s a love triangle, I felt there was a serious lack of angst, fury and even internal struggle considering the main theme trope. The ending just fell a little flat to me. Yes the extended epilogue has more answer but was more situational convenience rather than it being a decision the FMC character has come to herself.
December 11, 2025
This was such an unexpected book, and I absolutely loved it! I had anticipated a fun, spicy romance novel - which this book delivered deliciously 🥵.
What I didn’t expect was the depth of the FMC. Avery is an attorney in the early stages of her career, who gets involved in a forbidden love triangle with two different coworkers immediately after starting a new job. Her romantic journey with both men is fast paced, exciting and swoon worthy. While exploring these relationships, Avery also goes through a beautiful, personal transformation. She heals her romantic wounds by opening herself up to both Nash and James. She gains confidence in her career by facing challenges and working hard for what she wants. She gains clarity in who she is as a woman and an individual by finally prioritizing her own needs. Ultimately, this book reads as a love story to Avery herself. The ending is perfect (no spoilers!), and is exactly what I wanted for Avery.
Also, she has a kick ass best friend that you can’t help but love 😏
If you love forbidden romance, love triangles, forced proximity and stories about self discovery, I highly recommend you add this book to your TBR!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
What I didn’t expect was the depth of the FMC. Avery is an attorney in the early stages of her career, who gets involved in a forbidden love triangle with two different coworkers immediately after starting a new job. Her romantic journey with both men is fast paced, exciting and swoon worthy. While exploring these relationships, Avery also goes through a beautiful, personal transformation. She heals her romantic wounds by opening herself up to both Nash and James. She gains confidence in her career by facing challenges and working hard for what she wants. She gains clarity in who she is as a woman and an individual by finally prioritizing her own needs. Ultimately, this book reads as a love story to Avery herself. The ending is perfect (no spoilers!), and is exactly what I wanted for Avery.
Also, she has a kick ass best friend that you can’t help but love 😏
If you love forbidden romance, love triangles, forced proximity and stories about self discovery, I highly recommend you add this book to your TBR!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 13, 2025
Arc review: This book had me hooked from the first few pages. It was a super easy read but very Spicy. So if you don’t like spice this is NOT for you. From live triangles to bad exes this book gave what it needed to. I love a good forbidden romance and happy ending. The only complaint I have with this book is that is felt as if the author was rushing to hit each mark. It was a great read and I fell in love with the characters just needed to slow down a bit. Overall I love the book. You have Nash who is wild and free. Then on the other hand you have James who is out together and stable. Dating them were like dating two ends of the spectrum. It was honestly the perfect situation for someone fresh out of a breakup. Avery got to experience both lifestyles and see what it would be dating each personality.
Tropes:
Love Triangle
Office Romance
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
Tropes:
Love Triangle
Office Romance
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
December 14, 2025
First of all, I want to highlight that I love this authors writing style and the way she told this story.
The love triangle aspect was fine. HOWEVER, the cover of the book leads you to believe it’s a why-choose so if someone is going off the cover alone or the synopsis, it would probably be an easy assumption that it’s a why-choose.
I was more partial to James - I love a possessive grump. With the epilogue leaving you hanging with the open ended potential of something with James and Avery continuing (maybe?), I could get behind that.
This book should’ve been marketed wayyyy differently. In my opinion, this is not a romance book, especially taking into account that bullshit ending. “I love you both but I can’t be with either of you. Not without giving up a piece of myself.” If this book had been marketed for what it is, it may not be receiving such negative feedback when it comes to the “romance” aspect.
If I’d had a better idea about what the type of ending (because it’s not a HEA, in my opinion), I don’t think I’d be so disappointed and it would’ve gotten a higher rating. Such a bummer.
Thank you for the ARC.
The love triangle aspect was fine. HOWEVER, the cover of the book leads you to believe it’s a why-choose so if someone is going off the cover alone or the synopsis, it would probably be an easy assumption that it’s a why-choose.
I was more partial to James - I love a possessive grump. With the epilogue leaving you hanging with the open ended potential of something with James and Avery continuing (maybe?), I could get behind that.
This book should’ve been marketed wayyyy differently. In my opinion, this is not a romance book, especially taking into account that bullshit ending. “I love you both but I can’t be with either of you. Not without giving up a piece of myself.” If this book had been marketed for what it is, it may not be receiving such negative feedback when it comes to the “romance” aspect.
If I’d had a better idea about what the type of ending (because it’s not a HEA, in my opinion), I don’t think I’d be so disappointed and it would’ve gotten a higher rating. Such a bummer.
Thank you for the ARC.
December 17, 2025
**Arc Reader**A fun easy read! It’s light, perfectly spicy and won’t give you a book hangover. It’s definitely an unconventional love triangle- I expected little more anger? Or fighting? But there wasn’t and that’s ok. I enjoyed the characters and I would have loved a more in depth peak into their future. My only wish is that there was a bit more to the ending. I would have loved the published epilogue to be the last chapter and a more in depth epilogue of later down the line. But I blew through most of this book in 1 day and I was satisfied with the ending. Definitely would recommend if you want to hit your reading goals quick.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Office Romance
🖤 Forced Proximity
💜Forbidden Romance
This book was so very good. Avery is a lawyer, she starts working at a new firm and is instantly attracted to her boss James, who is broody and intense and then she meets Nash who is her paralegal, and a gold retriever and very stubborn. She ends up sleeping with both of them and continues to do so until she decides she just can’t. I enjoyed this book, very well written and I loved the story line. This was such a great debut read from Leigh Laurence!!
Thank you to Luna Literary and Leigh Laurence for the ARC! These are my honest thoughts.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Office Romance
🖤 Forced Proximity
💜Forbidden Romance
This book was so very good. Avery is a lawyer, she starts working at a new firm and is instantly attracted to her boss James, who is broody and intense and then she meets Nash who is her paralegal, and a gold retriever and very stubborn. She ends up sleeping with both of them and continues to do so until she decides she just can’t. I enjoyed this book, very well written and I loved the story line. This was such a great debut read from Leigh Laurence!!
Thank you to Luna Literary and Leigh Laurence for the ARC! These are my honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy
I would rate this book 3.5 stars, however as I enjoyed it i have rounded up to 4.
this wasn't what I was expecting, wasn't much of a love triangle. I loved the concept and the story, however I feel it could have been executed a little better as some parts felt slightly rushed.
I was happy with the final decision, i thought it closed it off quite well, even though I felt it would have been better as a HEA. however when it switched forward a few months, felt like it was pointless when it suddenly shifted.
was a quick and enjoyable read though.
this wasn't what I was expecting, wasn't much of a love triangle. I loved the concept and the story, however I feel it could have been executed a little better as some parts felt slightly rushed.
I was happy with the final decision, i thought it closed it off quite well, even though I felt it would have been better as a HEA. however when it switched forward a few months, felt like it was pointless when it suddenly shifted.
was a quick and enjoyable read though.
December 18, 2025
Finished it and thought I knew exactly what would happen... and then... nope!
A hot attorney, an associate, and a guitar-playing paralegal—what could possibly go wrong, right? 😏 Answer: EVERYTHING! 😈
I'm low-key swooning over this book. Just like I said earlier, I thought I knew what would happen, but it completely surprised me. And that's exactly what makes it worth reading 💖 Law firm tension, office heat, and meetings that go way off script... 🍑💥🥵
A 4.5☆ read. Lesson learned: This book proved one thing—being a bratty employee isn't always bad, not when your boss is smoking hot 🙈
A hot attorney, an associate, and a guitar-playing paralegal—what could possibly go wrong, right? 😏 Answer: EVERYTHING! 😈
I'm low-key swooning over this book. Just like I said earlier, I thought I knew what would happen, but it completely surprised me. And that's exactly what makes it worth reading 💖 Law firm tension, office heat, and meetings that go way off script... 🍑💥🥵
A 4.5☆ read. Lesson learned: This book proved one thing—being a bratty employee isn't always bad, not when your boss is smoking hot 🙈
December 10, 2025
ARC Read: overall, I enjoyed this book. I thought the writing and story were both good. Nash and James were two totally different characters with different things to like. I felt like they could have been developed a bit more overall but still enjoyed them.
I don’t want to spoil it, but at the end Avery’s decision on life took guts and I loved that for her.
I don’t want to spoil it, but at the end Avery’s decision on life took guts and I loved that for her.
December 17, 2025
I have to say that this book got me emotional. I found myself deep in Avery’s journey and internal conflict. Because having a workplace triangle is very complicated. 🤯
A story of ambition, desire and empowerment of a woman putting herself first. 💯
There’s an unconventional HEA for sure, but it’s the best and rightest for this story! ❤️
A story of ambition, desire and empowerment of a woman putting herself first. 💯
There’s an unconventional HEA for sure, but it’s the best and rightest for this story! ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews