Love on a Deadline: A Clean, Low-Stakes Black Cat x Golden Retriever, Forced Proximity Romance Novel

by Jacq Parairo

A no-nonsense, perfectionist investigative journalist butts heads with a charming, happy-go-lucky entertainment reporter in this black cat x golden retriever, forced proximity contemporary romance.

Samantha Flores has spent her career chasing hard-hitting stories, despite her family’s lack of interest in her work. Seeking the approval that her parents still withhold, Sam puts her nose to the grindstone, trying to win them over with her next big exposé. When she is assigned to cover the senatorial campaign of an action star turned politician, it seems all of her professional endeavors have led her to this moment.

Enter Axel Rivera, her assignment partner and the newsroom’s resident charmer. An entertainment reporter with a knack for disarming smiles and lighthearted banter, Axel is everything Samantha isn’t. But beneath his carefree persona lies a man navigating the heavy realities of his own life, including a mother struggling with bipolar disorder and his own battles with high-functioning anxiety.

As they uncover the layers of corruption underneath their subject’s polished platforms, they’re not only forced to confront not only the truth about the man they’re reporting on but also the truths they’ve hidden from themselves.

Can they rewrite the script of their lives and take a chance on love?

Perfect for fans of The Hating Game and The Ex Talk, Love on a Deadline is a light-hearted, banter-filled romance that explores mental health and well-being, perfectionism, and the quiet courage of choosing love amidst its imperfections.

Genres: Romance

216 pages, Paperback

First published December 15, 2025

Reviews

[Pamela · Rating 4 out of 5]

actual rating: 4.5 ⭐️

“you’re more important to me than anything else”
“more than coffee?”
“let’s not get ahead of ourselves”

oh my gosh. this book really did brought me joy!! 😩✋🏻 it’s been a while since i read office romances and GAAHHH it was once my dream YKWIM!!!?!? the kilig you get when u see your crush in the office, get partnered on a certain project, or maybe desk mate??? 👀

love on a deadline follows samantha flores—a driven investigative journalist who doesn't have time for charm until she's paired with axel rivera, the newsroom's resident golden boy, to cover a senator with secrets. as they dig up corruption together, they can't help but uncover something unexpected: each other

first guys, the banter is EVERYTHING 🤌🏻 the characters’ banter and chemistry is on top!! the back and forth between sam and axel is so fun. this is such a well done enemies to lovers trope. i love the build up in their relationship so much that it doesn’t feel rushed at all

the main characters as individuals was written amazingly. i just felt like they’re really adults with their life going on. for sam especially, she's so easy to root for even when she's being stubborn. you understand why she is the way she is, and watching her slowly let her walls down without losing herself in the process. and axel?? don't even get me started. the way he carries so much beneath that easygoing smile 😭 PLS I THOUGHT LAST NIGHT HE’S REALLY POGI!! he's the kind of character that makes you want to give him the world

what i also really appreciated is how the book handles mental health. it never felt overdramatic or used just for plot. it was just part of their reality. the way axel manages his anxiety while still showing up every day, still choosing to be present

the newsroom setting too!! it did so much heavy lifting for the story. the deadlines, the pressure, the whole environment mirrored what both characters were going through internally. time is always running out, for the story, for the job, for feelings left unsaid

the ending felt a bit rushed. totally hate a book when the main problem only arises towards the end like u get the thought of “the book is ending, literally less than hundred pages, why is this happening now?” but this book made an exception—tho that happened, everything just feels right too because again, that’s the concept, they’re on the deadline

maybe we're all just loving on a deadline. racing against our fears, our doubts, our not-yet's. and this book is a quiet reminder that choosing someone in the middle of all that chaos is the bravest thing you can do

overall, love on a deadline is the kind of book that catches up on you esp when you’re an adult. you pick it up expecting kilig and banter and you do get that, but you also walk away with something heavier in your chest in the best way

[Lenn ★ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before I even started this book, I already knew I would relate to it in one way or another because office romances will always have a soft spot for me. My husband and I started dating as officemates too, so stories set in workplaces always feel a little extra special to me. So going into this, I expected to connect with the romance aspect, but I didn’t expect so many other parts of this story to hit close to home too. 🥹

Following Sam and Axel as journalists thrown together in a high-pressure assignment gave this book more depth than I initially expected. Beyond the romance, this story explores ambition, perfectionism, family expectations, and the exhausting need to constantly prove yourself—not only to other people, but sometimes to yourself too.

What surprised me most was how much I connected with Sam outside of the romance. Her constant pursuit of validation, especially when it came to family, hit much closer to home than I expected. There were moments where her frustrations, worries, and emotional struggles felt painfully familiar, and it made this book resonate with me on a deeper level. 🥹

I also unexpectedly found myself relating to Sam because of swimming. As someone who also competed for school back in elementary, the mention of it gave me a sense of nostalgia. It reminded me of practices, competitions, and how certain experiences stay with you long after you leave them behind. Those small details made Sam feel more real to me—not just as a character, but as someone whose experiences I genuinely understood. 🙂‍↕️

And of course, I loved the romance. The workplace setting, newsroom chaos, and forced proximity naturally created opportunities for Sam and Axel’s relationship to grow, and I enjoyed watching that unfold. Their dynamic was charming, their interactions were fun, and Axel’s personality balanced out Sam’s tendency to be overly hard on herself. 🩷

Overall, this was such a heartfelt and relatable read that surprised me with how much of myself I found in its pages.

I came into this expecting to enjoy an office romance because it reminded me of my own love story. I didn’t expect to leave feeling seen in so many other ways too.

[Alvin E. E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Love On a Deadline
Novel By Jacq Parairo-Viray
Published by 8Letters Bookstore & Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Women’s Fiction

⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5 out of 5 stars)
Love On a Deadline is a contemporary romance that unfolds with quiet assurance and emotional honesty. Rather than relying on grand gestures or heightened drama, Jacq Parairo-Viray tells a story rooted in everyday realities—where love exists alongside work pressure, emotional fatigue, and the constant negotiation between personal desire and responsibility. It is a novel that does not rush to impress, but instead invites readers to linger.

At the center of the story are Sam, a driven journalist navigating the demands of her profession, and Axel, a man whose calm exterior conceals a life shaped by duty and emotional care. Sam’s journey reflects a struggle many readers will recognize: the need to prove oneself in a fast-paced world while quietly setting aside vulnerability. Axel, on the other hand, offers a refreshing take on romantic masculinity. His strength is not loud or performative, but grounded in patience, consistency, and emotional presence.

Their connection develops gradually, built on conversation, misunderstanding, and moments of shared recognition rather than instant certainty. This slow unfolding gives the relationship a sense of authenticity, allowing readers to see love not as an escape from reality, but as something shaped by timing, choice, and emotional readiness.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its restraint. Parairo-Viray allows silence, hesitation, and imperfect communication to carry weight. Instead of forcing emotional highs, the narrative trusts readers to sit with uncertainty. In doing so, the romance feels earned—shaped by circumstance rather than destiny.

The newsroom setting is particularly effective, serving as more than just a backdrop. The constant pressure of deadlines and productivity mirrors the characters’ inner lives, reinforcing the novel’s recurring theme of time—how little of it we have, how carefully it is measured, and how difficult it can be to make space for connection. Within this context, choosing love becomes a quiet but meaningful act.

The novel also approaches mental health with notable care. Emotional struggles are neither dramatized nor simplified. Instead, they are treated as ongoing realities that require understanding, responsibility, and compassion. This thoughtful portrayal adds depth to the characters and reinforces the novel’s grounded tone.

Love On a Deadline does not promise easy resolutions or perfect balance. It acknowledges that love does not erase ambition, exhaustion, or fear. What it offers instead is recognition—that choosing connection while carrying personal and professional weight is difficult, but deeply human. For readers who feel stretched thin by expectations or unsure whether they are allowed to slow down, the novel offers reassurance without sentimentality.

From a broader literary perspective, Parairo-Viray’s writing aligns contemporary romance with realism. The prose is clear and measured, the dialogue purposeful, and the emotional moments feel earned. Growth emerges naturally, respecting the characters’ limitations and lived experiences.

Thoughtful, grounded, and emotionally resonant, Love On a Deadline shows that contemporary romance can be both heartfelt and reflective. Jacq Parairo-Viray delivers a story that honors emotional labor, professional ambition, and the quiet courage it takes to choose love under imperfect circumstances. In doing so, the novel finds its place as a meaningful and timely contribution to modern romantic fiction.

[Aly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this book didn't just revolve too much on the romance genre but that the story revolve in many aspect. I get that this was a romance novel, but I love that the romance was not too over powering that it gets cliche.

The story is straight up about a girl who is a news article writer and the man is an entertainment reporter. They got into a project covering the story of Dante Dela Vega, who is an actor that is running for a position. They had to know whether his wanting to run for a position is a genuine act and is really who he say he is.

I love how this book is very relatable, not just on the political aspect but also the family matrix.

On the aspect of family matrix:

1. Sam, the FMC, is very much relatable for some because she strives hard to earn her parents approval and to hear that her parents are proud of her. She doesn't back down from any hardships she encounters and face them head on. Her parents are somewhat the type of parents in the Filipino culture where they compare their children's success and that in case what they love to do hinders their work or distract their daily lives, they will shut it down and make you feel little of yourself.
2. For Axel, his time and life is already dedicated to his mother who have an illness. He choose to put aside his wants and to put his life on hold to take care of his mother. To which his mother doesn't want him to do because even if he spends a great amount of time to take care of his mother, he should still have a life outside of her and should never put his life on hold just for her.

On the aspect of politics, it is very relatable. We all know that people will run for the position to "help" the people and aid them of their needs. But we all know those promises are sometimes just promises on the campaign made by the person so that people would vote for them. But what people doesn't know is that sometimes there are a lot of discrepancies being hidden in the eyes of the people just to protect their so called reputation. I'm just happy that in this book, the journalists that are handling this case are fearless. They are not afraid to uncover the corrupt practices of that person and I hope that journalists and media in this day and age would be like that, fearless and not hiding any ounce of information that the people deserve to know.

I love it so much. Hoping that there would be more to it. I know that "Getting Lucky" is connected to this one (yes I read this after reading Getting Lucky >.<) because of the characters.

[Ranne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5 stars

Love on a Deadline is more than just a workplace romance. It is a story about ambition, family expectations, mental health, and learning to embrace imperfections. The novel follows Samantha Flores, a perfectionist investigative journalist, and Axel Rivera, a charming entertainment reporter, who are assigned to work together on a political investigation. As they uncover corruption behind a senator's campaign, they also confront their own personal struggles and slowly develop feelings for each other.

What stood out to me most was how realistic and relatable the characters were. Sam's constant need for validation from her family reflects the pressure many people feel to prove their worth through achievements. Meanwhile, Axel's struggles with anxiety and his responsibilities toward his mother show that even the happiest people can carry heavy burdens. Their flaws made them feel human and easy to connect with.

I also enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers dynamic and the witty banter between Sam and Axel. Their relationship developed naturally, showing how love can grow through understanding, patience, and mutual support rather than instant attraction.

Beyond the romance, the book highlights important themes such as mental health awareness, family expectations, self-worth, and personal growth. It reminds readers that life does not have to be perfect before we allow ourselves to experience happiness and love.

Another important aspect of the story is its political commentary. The realistic portrayal of an actor-turned-politician reflects issues that many Filipinos recognize today, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and informed voting.

Overall, Love on a Deadline the book left me reflecting on the importance of accepting imperfections, valuing genuine connections, and finding the courage to choose love even in uncertain times.

[The Owl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love on a Deadline by Jacq Parairo is an outstanding five-star contemporary work that skillfully turns personal and professional tension into a memorable emotional experience. The essence of the novel revolves around how Samantha’s cautious perfectionism and Axel’s laid-back charm initially conflict, yet ultimately blend harmoniously as they navigate a tumultuous senatorial campaign. Their differences evolve from elements of conflict into unmistakable strengths when Sam’s keen, analytical perspective maintains focus on their investigation, while Axel’s engaging emotional insight reveals vital sources that might have otherwise stayed hidden. Underneath their professional exteriors, both individuals bear significant, unseen emotional loads that profoundly influence their journeys: Sam’s intense yearning for her parents’ validation fuels her unyielding dedication to work but hinders her personal relationships, while Axel’s well-managed anxiety and the responsibility of caring for his mother, who has bipolar disorder, compel him to don a facade of effortless charisma. In their relationship, these internal struggles ultimately have space to emerge, as they gradually lower their defenses and turn into each other's sanctuary. In the end, as their probe reveals profound political corruption, the intense stakes compel them to face their own realities. The book conveys a strong, impactful message regarding integrity and ambition, demonstrating that whether you maneuver through the ethical complexities of journalism or the fragility of personal relationships, telling the truth demands great bravery—and the price of upholding that integrity is always worthwhile.

[Booksxphotographs · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Would you rather be brave enough to make the first move, or bold enough to respond when I do?”

This is one of my favorite “Would You Rather” moments in the book because of how bold and impactful it is. It’s simple, yet it perfectly captures the chemistry between the characters and leaves a lasting impression.

How do I even describe this book? Despite tackling heavy topics, the story is delivered so smoothly and effortlessly that you can’t help but enjoy every page. It explores politics, the entertainment industry, mental health struggles, and the desire for parental approval, all while maintaining a balance between depth and entertainment.

The way the story flows and gradually unfolds is something you won’t expect. It follows two journalists assigned to cover the senatorial campaign of an action star, and the chemistry between them is undeniable. Their banter is witty, engaging, and one of the highlights of the book.

What I appreciate most is that although both characters are dealing with their own personal issues, these challenges never hinder their growth. Instead, they become catalysts for their development, making their journeys feel authentic and rewarding. This book is not only compelling but also beautifully written, with characters you’ll find yourself rooting for until the very end.

Lastly, I just want to say thank you to @thefilipinoshelf for including me in the book tour and giving me the opportunity to be part of this experience. And thank you @_jacqstoned , for trusting us.

[Tin ♥︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, gosh, where do I start? I picked up this book because of the premise. A journalist romance? Count me in!

“Love on a Deadline” sucked me in from the very first page, and I breezed through the book because it was that good! I love the author’s snappy yet flowing prose. I love the plot. And I especially love the emotional intimacy that both the protagonists share!

The mental health rep was also well-written and was handled with the sensitivity it deserves. I love how Axel and Sam supported each other in both their lowest points.

Now going to a more personal note, I relate so deeply with Sam, growing up in a family where academic achievements and public reputation were more important than their own child’s mental health. Axel’s relationship with his mother also made me rethink my own role as a mom too—a mom with mental health struggles, a mom who also wanted to off myself when my eldest was still so young. It made me realize how much it would affect my own children if I don’t take accountability of my own healing.

Over all, this was such a thought-provoking read. And the romantic build up near the end only for it to be taken away? Damn. But then again, I love the book’s resolution. It’s realistic but also a well-deserved HEA, and I’m really hoping this gets a sequel :D

[A. C. Llena · Rating 5 out of 5]

The journalism part of this book was what actually drew me in, and the content never disappointed me. I love the fact that it's a close-door, less-spice, and emotionally healthy story. MMC has a hilariously conceited personality (at some point) but not overbearing. The characters have something significant to work on which are more important than than their feelings for one another. That would teach any reader that romantic love or even sex is not the ultimate goal of driving a plot. The difference between the characters' qualities were striking, the slow burn effective, the traumas and reactions to it valid.

More than that however, I have learned a lot about how journalists navigated fieldwork/legwork. How journalists differ about their attitude toward this profession. How stories that matter should matter more than the usual we post on our news pages. It made me rethink of how I manage the publication our school has entrusted in my hands. It's good to get a glimpse of what the newsroom looks like through the lens of someone who had actually worked there. And the author and I could probaby agree that coffee should be the official drink in the newsroom, hahaha!

This story inspired me to love and appreciate journalism, now an ancillary task I have a love-hate relationship with for 20 years now.

Really great read, will recommend.😀😀😀

[Miracle Meryll · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

It was a fun and light read.

The story follows two people—one a journalist, the other an entertainment reporter—who worked together to cover the campaign of a celebrity actor turned politician, Dela Vega. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Dahil dito sa Pilipinas, talamak ang mga yan, and we can see them on screen. Sadly, most of them are just clowning us. Anyway, that’s why I signed up for this book tour—because it’s really interesting, plus it’s romance!

Speaking of romance, I liked the trope, though I can say it wasn’t emphasized that much. The chemistry is there as well, but I wanted more. Alex and Sam’s characters resonated with me because I can see both my past and current versions of myself in them. But I’m glad to say that most of the time, I’m in the middle. I enjoyed the book and the character development, and it reminded me that sometimes we just need one person in this chaotic world to make us feel safe, happy, and content.

On the political side of the book, I can say I wasn’t surprised at all by the ending—it was the most realistic thing to happen, especially here in the Philippines. It was heartbreaking.

All in all, reading this book felt like being in a boat in the middle of the sea, waiting for a big wave that, unfortunately, never came. However, it stays calm, and you just absorb the moment.

[ANONYMOUS · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is honestly one of those books that just makes you feel good from start to finish.

I went into this expecting something light, and it delivered—but in the best way possible. The black cat x golden retriever dynamic was so fun to read. You can really feel the contrast between the characters, and watching that slow shift from tension to something softer was incredibly satisfying.

What I loved most is how comfortable this book feels. There’s no unnecessary drama or over-the-top conflict—it’s just two people getting closer because they’re forced to share space and time. The moments are simple, but they feel genuine, and that made everything more believable and easy to connect with.

The pacing worked really well for me too. It never felt rushed, but it also didn’t drag. It’s the kind of story you can breeze through in one sitting and then just sit there smiling after.

If you’re looking for something soft, wholesome, and low-stress, this is definitely worth picking up. It’s not trying to be anything complicated—it just tells a sweet story, and it does it really well.

[Kevin Ollivett]

Love on a Deadline by Jacq Parairo is a compelling workplace romance set in the fast-paced world of journalism. The novel follows Samantha and Axel, whose contrasting personalities create both tension and a genuine emotional connection.

What makes the story stand out is its focus on internal conflict, particularly Samantha’s need for approval and Axel’s underlying anxiety. These elements add depth to the narrative, making the romance feel grounded rather than purely formulaic.

In addition to its strong characters, the novel skillfully incorporates cultural and professional context, reflecting the pressures of the Philippines newsroom environment. Small details, like Axel’s “golden retriever” charm and the dynamics between entertainment and investigative reporting, enrich the story and make the romance feel authentic and relatable.

Overall, Love on a Deadline offers a thoughtful balance between familiar romance stereotypes and realistic character development, resulting in a story that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.

[Paula Dalangin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first romance book I’ve read in a long time, and I really enjoyed it. It balances romance with real, relatable struggles. Samantha’s perfectionism and drive feel authentic, and Axel’s charm isn’t just for show. His internal conflicts add a layer to his character that makes the banter between them more than just fluff. I liked how their forced partnership at work sets up all these fun, snappy interactions without feeling forced or over-the-top.

What stood out most was how the book mixes humor with moments of reflection. The writer wasn’t afraid of mixing serious subjects like mental health or family issues into the usual romance plot. In fact, it’s the very idea that made this romance grounded and believable.

[Katrine Madayag · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book review: Love on a Deadline by Jacq Parairo
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Love on a Deadline is a high-stakes contemporary romance novel that follows the lives of Sam, a career-driven and reserved investigative journalist, and Axel, a charming entertainment reporter. They were assigned to cover a high-profile political campaign, and stumbled upon a web of corruption.

The closer they get to the truth, the harder it gets, to ignore the blurring line between work and their budding relationship. Landing on the next expose was the plan, but falling in love isn’t.

The forced proximity trope, dashed with the perfect amount of witty banters, made me wish the story would never end. I started reading it in the morning and wasn’t able to put it down until I flipped the last page. ❤️

[Ronabear · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love on a Deadline by Jacq Parairo was such an easy book to get invested in. The banter between Sam and Axel carried the whole book for me and the black cat/golden retriever dynamic was genuinely fun to read. I also loved the little “would you rather” moments between them.

What surprised me most was how grounded the story felt. The journalism setting and political storyline added depth without taking away from the romance. Sam struggling with being belittled by her family and Axel putting parts of his life on hold for his mom made them feel very human and real.

There were moments that genuinely hurt, especially when both of them clearly wanted each other but felt like they couldn’t act on it. Couldn’t put this down and ended up finishing it in one sitting 🥲

[Nazzy Jong · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book—it’s such a light and comforting read. The black cat x golden retriever dynamic was done really well, and you can feel how their personalities slowly balance each other out, especially with the forced proximity.

What I liked most is that it’s low-stakes, so the story doesn’t feel heavy or stressful. It’s more about their growth and connection, which made the romance feel natural and genuine.

It’s a bit predictable at times, but honestly, that didn’t bother me. It’s the kind of book you read when you just want something soft and feel-good.

[ishye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ooooh, this book! Had me giggling and kicking my feet from all the kilig. I ate this book up in just one sitting.

Office romance is usually something I frown upon, but this book got me. I loved the story and how it incorporated politics, family drama, and mental health. I also loved how grounded it felt—some of the situations felt so real that you can easily imagine them actually happening.

I really enjoyed this one! Definitely excited to read more of Miss Jacq’s work.

[Cosmo Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love on a Deadline was such a refreshing read.

It follows Sam, an investigative journalist, and Axel, an entertainment reporter, who are forced to work together while covering a high-profile political campaign.

The romance developed at a pace that made sense, and I really enjoyed watching these two slowly understand each other beyond their first impressions.

I appreciated how naturally the story balanced the romance with the characters' personal struggles and careers. The newsroom setting added something different, and I liked seeing how their work shaped who they were instead of just serving as a backdrop.

It was a comforting and full of heart read, but it also doesn't shy away from topics like family expectations, anxiety, and mental health.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jacq captured the environment and essence of being a journalist. But what really got me was the line, "I promise I will keep on living. For you." It's so rare to hear that, and from a parent as well.


Sam was pissing me off ngl. And I think what irked me the most was she reminded me too much of myself--I, too, say words that hurt my partner when things don't go my way. I'm glad she learned that others' opinions don't really matter that much. What matters is your perspective of yourself because (bad news), you have to live with yourself.

And Axel was such a sweetie. We love a man who goes to therapy! And Penny, of course, was the real MVP.