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The Deskmate Dilemma
Love was never on their to-do list, but it’s the one deadline they can’t ignore.Katie and Ryan have always been the dream team. Sharing everything from office desks to inside jokes, they survive the monotony of corporate life with witty banter, office DM's, and their weekly post-work pub nights. They’ve mastered the art of making the 9-to-5 grind bearable, until Katie’s world is flipped upside down.
With her life suddenly in chaos, Katie finds herself questioning everything, including her perfectly platonic friendship with Ryan. As unexpected feelings begin to surface, the lines between colleagues, friends, and something more start to blur. Is she imagining the lingering looks and charged moments, or has Ryan been hiding feelings of his own?
As they confront their deepest fears and desires, they’ll have to decide if love is worth risking everything, even the job and friendship that have kept them steady for so long.
With her life suddenly in chaos, Katie finds herself questioning everything, including her perfectly platonic friendship with Ryan. As unexpected feelings begin to surface, the lines between colleagues, friends, and something more start to blur. Is she imagining the lingering looks and charged moments, or has Ryan been hiding feelings of his own?
As they confront their deepest fears and desires, they’ll have to decide if love is worth risking everything, even the job and friendship that have kept them steady for so long.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 28, 2026
Life is busy and filled with challenges. In the midst of that, there is no better feeling than to sit down with a light read that guarantees a happy ending. The Deskmate Dilemma had me invested from the very beginning. Waverly begins with a letter to her readers which I adored. It gives insight into who she is and why she writes. I also loved that the main characters, Katie and Ryan, had been friends for years when we meet them. This helps set up a true slow burn. Waverly also handles a serious workplace topic thoughtfully and respectfully. And of course, there is the expected happy ending which contained a twist that I didn’t see coming! I have read a lot of romance books and perhaps the highest praise I can give is that this did not feel like a debut novel from an unknown author. Congratulations Waverly on a wonderful debut novel! I’m looking forward to what comes next!
March 18, 2026
Release Date - 28th April
First of all , Waverly, congratulations on writing your DEBUT NOVEL! I am so proud of you! I really appreciate that you’ve trusted me with your first book baby , so thank you for this arc !
This was such a cute and sweet read ! I finished this book way too quick - a good sign because I was invested in Katie and Ryan’s story but not great cos it ended too quickly !
Waverley captured their mutual attraction , yearning and chemistry perfectly ! I liked the gradual pacing of friendship to a relationship. Katie and Ryan both developed feelings beyond friendship but I liked how unsure they were. They both knew what they wanted but both unsure if it was safe to cross that line not knowing if the other person felt the same way. Both had a fear of rejection and this was a rejection that would hurt the most. But taking a risk had never felt so daunting yet rewarding .
You know what I love ? Surprises ! I loved every surprise Ryan had in store but surprise #5 is my favourite !! This was the sweetest read ! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a contemporary romance with low angst.
✨ Thank you Waverly for this arc in return for an honest review ✨
First of all , Waverly, congratulations on writing your DEBUT NOVEL! I am so proud of you! I really appreciate that you’ve trusted me with your first book baby , so thank you for this arc !
This was such a cute and sweet read ! I finished this book way too quick - a good sign because I was invested in Katie and Ryan’s story but not great cos it ended too quickly !
Waverley captured their mutual attraction , yearning and chemistry perfectly ! I liked the gradual pacing of friendship to a relationship. Katie and Ryan both developed feelings beyond friendship but I liked how unsure they were. They both knew what they wanted but both unsure if it was safe to cross that line not knowing if the other person felt the same way. Both had a fear of rejection and this was a rejection that would hurt the most. But taking a risk had never felt so daunting yet rewarding .
You know what I love ? Surprises ! I loved every surprise Ryan had in store but surprise #5 is my favourite !! This was the sweetest read ! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a contemporary romance with low angst.
✨ Thank you Waverly for this arc in return for an honest review ✨
April 30, 2026
My first ARC from Wicked Ink Publishing. This is a 4 star romance book. Ngl it is true to its troupes a def slow burn. No spice necessary, although I was fending for some spice maybe book number 2??? This novel is a nice wholesome tender heart-warming read. I really saw myself in both Ryan and Katie I am similar with their personalities. Dual prospectives did just that, appreciated that. I am glad Waverly added that to the novel creating “real characters” with “read issues” I loved the way waverly made me feel with her words when she describes the scenery. It is almost like I can experience being there myself smelling the chocolate chip cookies! I love witers that can make me feel immersed in their writing. I am satisfied with the ending super adorable and not what I was expecting tbh. I thought it was all said and done with the main characters. Truely enjoyed my first ARC. Thanks to Wicked Ink Publishing for giving me giving me this advance copy. I will be buying the book!
April 12, 2026
Thank you to Waverly and Wicked Ink publishing for the chance to read this eARC of Waverly debut novel out on 4/28.
This was such a sweet workplace romance of best friends to lovers. I loved the banter of Katie and Ryan. Not only did this book follow their friendship turned to lovers but it handled a toxic work environment very thoughtfully. I loved seeing Katie grow in herself for her career and seeing that she deserves better.
If you want an easy light hearted, full of sweet moments and humor this book is for you!
This was such a sweet workplace romance of best friends to lovers. I loved the banter of Katie and Ryan. Not only did this book follow their friendship turned to lovers but it handled a toxic work environment very thoughtfully. I loved seeing Katie grow in herself for her career and seeing that she deserves better.
If you want an easy light hearted, full of sweet moments and humor this book is for you!
April 28, 2026
The Deskmate Dilemma is an amazing book to read. The narrative was written very well and I felt like I was right there with Ryan and Katie. I wanted to shake Ryan and tell him to stop overthinking. I wanted to comfort Katie and encourage her to take the path she wants to take, not the one she expects to live. I want to tell them both that it's okay to be scared and yes, it is tough and scary but sometimes, you just need to take that last step to your happiness. I will admit that the ending seemed a bit rushed but honestly, I enjoyed reading this book. So, thank you Waverly O’Brian for this amazing story.
Thank you Wicked Ink Publishing for the ARC!
Thank you Wicked Ink Publishing for the ARC!
June 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Desk Mate Dilemma completely stole my heart! 💛
I’m usually not the biggest fan of miscommunication tropes, but in this case, I could genuinely understand where Ryan was coming from, which made the story feel so much more realistic and emotional. Watching Katie and Ryan’s friends-to-lovers journey unfold had me rooting for them every step of the way.
The writing was absolutely incredible—warm, engaging, and impossible to put down. And the fact that this is a debut novel? I’m honestly amazed. 🤯
The Desk Mate Dilemma completely stole my heart! 💛
I’m usually not the biggest fan of miscommunication tropes, but in this case, I could genuinely understand where Ryan was coming from, which made the story feel so much more realistic and emotional. Watching Katie and Ryan’s friends-to-lovers journey unfold had me rooting for them every step of the way.
The writing was absolutely incredible—warm, engaging, and impossible to put down. And the fact that this is a debut novel? I’m honestly amazed. 🤯
April 30, 2026
ARC Review
Book: The Deskmate Dilemma
Author: Waverly O’Brian
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
I enjoyed reading this book from page one. Thank you, @waverly_obrian, for this ARC opportunity.
This was such a cozy read, a tension-filled, friends-to-lovers story. When the line between friendship and love blurs, they will have to decide if crossing that line will be worth it.
If you love friends-to-lovers and workplace romance, this book is for you. ️
Book: The Deskmate Dilemma
Author: Waverly O’Brian
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
I enjoyed reading this book from page one. Thank you, @waverly_obrian, for this ARC opportunity.
This was such a cozy read, a tension-filled, friends-to-lovers story. When the line between friendship and love blurs, they will have to decide if crossing that line will be worth it.
If you love friends-to-lovers and workplace romance, this book is for you. ️
April 28, 2026
I received an advanced reading copy for an honest review. This was a decent read for me. I enjoyed the storyline and plot. The book was well written, especially if you like all the tension and super low spice. The characters were good and relatable and had good chemistry. If you are looking something on the cleaner side of romance I would definitely recommend this one!
April 28, 2026
This book was honestly so cutie!
I'm not typically one for the miscommunication trope, but Waverly wrote this one in such a way that was honestly so cute. Her characters were relatable and fun, and the story was easy to follow.
I really loved the "secrets" Ryan did for Katie, that was such a cute idea.
As a debut novel, I think Waverly is on the right track and I can't wait to see where she goes from here!
I'm not typically one for the miscommunication trope, but Waverly wrote this one in such a way that was honestly so cute. Her characters were relatable and fun, and the story was easy to follow.
I really loved the "secrets" Ryan did for Katie, that was such a cute idea.
As a debut novel, I think Waverly is on the right track and I can't wait to see where she goes from here!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
Book Review - Fiction - Workplace Romance
Title: The Deskmate Dilemma by Waverly O'Brian
⭐ Star Rating: 5 ⭐
💼 Vibe Check: PASS (friends-to-lovers supremacy has entered the chat.)
This book felt like... every work spouse relationship you've ever secretly rooted for finally realizing everyone else knew they were in love before they did. 😂
Katie and Ryan have been inseparable for years. They share a desk, survive the corporate grind together, exchange hilarious office messages, and unwind with weekly pub nights. They've convinced themselves they're "just friends."
Reader…
Nobody believed them. 😂
I absolutely adored these two. Their chemistry felt effortless, the banter was natural, and their friendship was the kind that makes you smile because you know they're each other's safe place long before they figure it out themselves.
Watching Katie navigate unexpected changes in her life while slowly realizing her feelings for Ryan made this romance feel authentic and heartfelt. There wasn't unnecessary drama—just two people learning that sometimes the love you've been searching for has been sitting at the desk beside you all along.
Tropes included: friends to lovers, workplace romance, slow burn, work spouses, emotional growth, mutual pining, witty banter, and "everyone knows except them."
Did they deliver? Absolutely. I was grinning through so much of this book waiting for these two to catch up with the rest of us. 😂
This book made me feel: cozy, happy, hopeful, and fully invested in two lovable idiots who desperately needed someone to point out the obvious.
Perfect for readers who love... Emily Henry vibes, workplace romances, best friends falling in love, cinnamon roll heroes, and stories that leave you smiling.
😈 Petty Complaint... HR was probably sweating the entire time these two were pretending nothing was happening. 😂
Overall, The Deskmate Dilemma is sweet, funny, heartfelt, and full of the kind of romance that reminds you sometimes the best love stories start with friendship.
Five stars. Office romances don't get much cuter than this.
Title: The Deskmate Dilemma by Waverly O'Brian
⭐ Star Rating: 5 ⭐
💼 Vibe Check: PASS (friends-to-lovers supremacy has entered the chat.)
This book felt like... every work spouse relationship you've ever secretly rooted for finally realizing everyone else knew they were in love before they did. 😂
Katie and Ryan have been inseparable for years. They share a desk, survive the corporate grind together, exchange hilarious office messages, and unwind with weekly pub nights. They've convinced themselves they're "just friends."
Reader…
Nobody believed them. 😂
I absolutely adored these two. Their chemistry felt effortless, the banter was natural, and their friendship was the kind that makes you smile because you know they're each other's safe place long before they figure it out themselves.
Watching Katie navigate unexpected changes in her life while slowly realizing her feelings for Ryan made this romance feel authentic and heartfelt. There wasn't unnecessary drama—just two people learning that sometimes the love you've been searching for has been sitting at the desk beside you all along.
Tropes included: friends to lovers, workplace romance, slow burn, work spouses, emotional growth, mutual pining, witty banter, and "everyone knows except them."
Did they deliver? Absolutely. I was grinning through so much of this book waiting for these two to catch up with the rest of us. 😂
This book made me feel: cozy, happy, hopeful, and fully invested in two lovable idiots who desperately needed someone to point out the obvious.
Perfect for readers who love... Emily Henry vibes, workplace romances, best friends falling in love, cinnamon roll heroes, and stories that leave you smiling.
😈 Petty Complaint... HR was probably sweating the entire time these two were pretending nothing was happening. 😂
Overall, The Deskmate Dilemma is sweet, funny, heartfelt, and full of the kind of romance that reminds you sometimes the best love stories start with friendship.
Five stars. Office romances don't get much cuter than this.
June 21, 2026
I have read The Deskmate Dilemma by Waverly O’Brian and here are my comments.
Ryan and Katie have been workmates and friends for several years and have helped each other survive the soul eating monster that is the corporate world. All is good in the best of worlds until Ryan gets a promotion and has to move to another branch, in another city, breaking the balance that has kept them sane all these years. As the end of their camaraderie looms heavy on their souls, a latent and mutual romantic attraction emerges even if they don't want to admit it. Can love find a way?
Straight off the bat, I have to confess that this is the first romance novel that I have ever completed and is on the total opposite of the spectrum of what I usually read. Nonetheless, I had a good time going through all the different shades of emotions and interrogations that come with falling in love. I thought the alternating narration between the two protagonists was fluent and exciting as we got to experience the story from both sides of the mirror.
The whole world and its inhabitants also felt relatable. I loved the slimy co-workers, the HR politics, the comforting family and the sports bro friend.
On the other hand, some of the scenes, especially at the beginning, dragged on for too long before actually paying off (I'm looking at you Park Day). A lot of the inside monologues in these moments could have been shortened as some of the ideas were repeated several times.
I also thought that the whole dilemma could have been more problematic. They had been very close for seven years and no reason was given as to why they were not already going out or why they refused to do so prior to the events of the book. In my mind, I did not understand what kept them apart for so long.
As a first experience in the world of romance, The Deskmate Dilemma was a pleasent surprise. It opened up a whole new can of emotions that I never knew existed and I hope that Waverly O'Brian continues to bring in some love into this world.
Ryan and Katie have been workmates and friends for several years and have helped each other survive the soul eating monster that is the corporate world. All is good in the best of worlds until Ryan gets a promotion and has to move to another branch, in another city, breaking the balance that has kept them sane all these years. As the end of their camaraderie looms heavy on their souls, a latent and mutual romantic attraction emerges even if they don't want to admit it. Can love find a way?
Straight off the bat, I have to confess that this is the first romance novel that I have ever completed and is on the total opposite of the spectrum of what I usually read. Nonetheless, I had a good time going through all the different shades of emotions and interrogations that come with falling in love. I thought the alternating narration between the two protagonists was fluent and exciting as we got to experience the story from both sides of the mirror.
The whole world and its inhabitants also felt relatable. I loved the slimy co-workers, the HR politics, the comforting family and the sports bro friend.
On the other hand, some of the scenes, especially at the beginning, dragged on for too long before actually paying off (I'm looking at you Park Day). A lot of the inside monologues in these moments could have been shortened as some of the ideas were repeated several times.
I also thought that the whole dilemma could have been more problematic. They had been very close for seven years and no reason was given as to why they were not already going out or why they refused to do so prior to the events of the book. In my mind, I did not understand what kept them apart for so long.
As a first experience in the world of romance, The Deskmate Dilemma was a pleasent surprise. It opened up a whole new can of emotions that I never knew existed and I hope that Waverly O'Brian continues to bring in some love into this world.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
The Deskmate Dilemma by Waverly O’Brian is so much more than your typical funny office romance. While there are definitely plenty of workplace mishaps, awkward moments, and laugh-out-loud interactions, the real charm of this indie romance is the slow-burning, friends-to-lovers connection that develops between the main characters.
The dynamic instantly gave me major The Office vibes! Think of Jim and Pam's energy with that mix of quiet longing, playful teasing, and those small, everyday moments that slowly turn into something bigger. If you love a workplace romance where the chemistry builds through shared glances, desk-side conversations, and inside jokes, this one absolutely delivers.
What makes this book especially enjoyable is how light and comforting it feels. While there is definitely an element of mysongeny and inappropriate workplace behavior our heroine has to deal with - the story balances that out with humor with genuinely sweet moments. Nothing overly dramatic - just an easy & sweet romance.
**Thank you to Waverly O'Brian for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🖤
The dynamic instantly gave me major The Office vibes! Think of Jim and Pam's energy with that mix of quiet longing, playful teasing, and those small, everyday moments that slowly turn into something bigger. If you love a workplace romance where the chemistry builds through shared glances, desk-side conversations, and inside jokes, this one absolutely delivers.
What makes this book especially enjoyable is how light and comforting it feels. While there is definitely an element of mysongeny and inappropriate workplace behavior our heroine has to deal with - the story balances that out with humor with genuinely sweet moments. Nothing overly dramatic - just an easy & sweet romance.
**Thank you to Waverly O'Brian for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🖤
June 1, 2026
This adorable office romance revolves around two co-workers, Katie and Ryan, who have developed a friendship amidst their horrendous workplace environment. As they toe the line between friendship and love, they face major transitions at work, adding even more to their already chaotic lives, and forcing them to make decisions with a deadline looming over them.
This was a super cute workplace romance, and I enjoyed reading about the hurdles they had to face, both professionally and in their own personal lives. Issues such as workplace harassment greatly impact their workplace environment, and Ryan appears to have anxiety resulting in avoidance when it comes to communicating with Katie. I really enjoyed that the characters were not presented as perfect, they both have their flaws that they have to overcome before they can determine what they want most, and what changes they will make to pursue what is most important to them.
I did find the pacing a bit slow to start, but it did pick up quite a bit at the midway point, at which point I devoured the last half.
Overall, I think this was a fantastic debut novel and I am very excited to see the author grow with her future writings.
This was a super cute workplace romance, and I enjoyed reading about the hurdles they had to face, both professionally and in their own personal lives. Issues such as workplace harassment greatly impact their workplace environment, and Ryan appears to have anxiety resulting in avoidance when it comes to communicating with Katie. I really enjoyed that the characters were not presented as perfect, they both have their flaws that they have to overcome before they can determine what they want most, and what changes they will make to pursue what is most important to them.
I did find the pacing a bit slow to start, but it did pick up quite a bit at the midway point, at which point I devoured the last half.
Overall, I think this was a fantastic debut novel and I am very excited to see the author grow with her future writings.
May 8, 2026
What a lovely office romance book. The perfect guilty pleasure read for your trip to the lake this summer. It’s got the perfect slow burn for a nice lemonade and a large hat in your favourite outdoor chair. Don’t forget sunscreen because you will likely get engrossed in this one. It’s a fairly easy read but not so easy that you won’t get invested in Katie and Ryan.
The author beautifully pulls out office shenanigans in a day that will leave you going “just kiss already!”
Some challenging workplace difficulties are also addressed well in a way that feels honest. Many women have been in situations where we realize “I don’t get paid enough for this.” I like that this was approached in an honest, realistic way.
The “other” relationships in this book are also nice. At the beginning Waverly has a letter to the reader where she talks about happy endings. And it was really nice to see a lovely guys relationship plot, as well as Katie’s relationship with her family. Which not only explored love, but what does success mean, and what is important in life.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
The author beautifully pulls out office shenanigans in a day that will leave you going “just kiss already!”
Some challenging workplace difficulties are also addressed well in a way that feels honest. Many women have been in situations where we realize “I don’t get paid enough for this.” I like that this was approached in an honest, realistic way.
The “other” relationships in this book are also nice. At the beginning Waverly has a letter to the reader where she talks about happy endings. And it was really nice to see a lovely guys relationship plot, as well as Katie’s relationship with her family. Which not only explored love, but what does success mean, and what is important in life.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
May 4, 2026
I usually read fantasy, thriller or horror novels but this was recommended to me by a friend and I wanted to support a local author so I preordered. This book was so heartwarming and refreshing and the characters were built so well I couldn't put it down. I DON'T typically like romance novels because I think they're too cheesy and I don't like reading whatever awful names authors come up with for body parts. This was none of that, it was just real. It was like listening to the inner monologue of a close and well spoken friend. I admired the fact that Waverly didn't rely on smut to make the story engaging and it's part of why I loved it so much. I felt butterflies for the characters just based on their feelings and experiences. Read in record time - just what my soul needed to dull the horrors of reality. Can't wait to see what she writes next!
May 19, 2026
I enjoyed the story and the characters so much!
For a debut novel, I am impressed with how well-written and well-developed the story and characters are. Could some of the conflict have been solved if they'd have just talked? Yes. But I also felt the emotions behind why they didn't were real and authentic. I've felt the anxiety and nerves and fear the characters in this story feel.
There were some minor things that I felt could be improved (a small inconsistency in one chapter and awkward wording in certain scenes), but overall, this was a hit out of the park for me. And the minor things didn't take away from the story at all.
If I hadn't had a busy weekend, I would have finished this book in two days. It's the kind of feel-good love story that I love coming back to again and again!
For a debut novel, I am impressed with how well-written and well-developed the story and characters are. Could some of the conflict have been solved if they'd have just talked? Yes. But I also felt the emotions behind why they didn't were real and authentic. I've felt the anxiety and nerves and fear the characters in this story feel.
There were some minor things that I felt could be improved (a small inconsistency in one chapter and awkward wording in certain scenes), but overall, this was a hit out of the park for me. And the minor things didn't take away from the story at all.
If I hadn't had a busy weekend, I would have finished this book in two days. It's the kind of feel-good love story that I love coming back to again and again!
May 11, 2026
Thank you to Waverly O’Brian and Wicked Ink Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC of Therapy Deskmate Dilemma for an honest review!
This was such a cute quick fun romance that gave me Jim and Pam from the Office vibes. I loved that this book wasn’t just a slow burn friends to lovers workplace romance, but also dealt with the unfortunate reality of toxicity, power imbalances, and sexual harassment from a terrible boss.
Waverly captured the true essence of a slow burn gradual progression of friends to lovers with the realities of questioning timing, true feelings, fear of rejection, and the hesitation of taking a leap of faith for love. I loved Katie and Ryan’s friendship and banter throughout the entire story, they were adorable.
This was such a cute quick fun romance that gave me Jim and Pam from the Office vibes. I loved that this book wasn’t just a slow burn friends to lovers workplace romance, but also dealt with the unfortunate reality of toxicity, power imbalances, and sexual harassment from a terrible boss.
Waverly captured the true essence of a slow burn gradual progression of friends to lovers with the realities of questioning timing, true feelings, fear of rejection, and the hesitation of taking a leap of faith for love. I loved Katie and Ryan’s friendship and banter throughout the entire story, they were adorable.
May 11, 2026
If you love Pam and Jim from the office this will be the book for you. Katie and Ryan are workplace friends, but both secretly want a little bit more. They both majorly struggle with miscommunication and missed opportunities between each other and are each realistic and flawed.
While some heavier topics, including workplace harassment, are discussed, the author did a good job addressing the issues.
While the miscommunication trope was a little overdone for me personally, I just kept yelling at Ryan to get his ish together. This was a good debut by a new-to-me author. I would definitely recommend it to those who love friends-to-lovers and workplace romance.
I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.
While some heavier topics, including workplace harassment, are discussed, the author did a good job addressing the issues.
While the miscommunication trope was a little overdone for me personally, I just kept yelling at Ryan to get his ish together. This was a good debut by a new-to-me author. I would definitely recommend it to those who love friends-to-lovers and workplace romance.
I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great debut novel! Katie and Ryan are desk mates and endure the mundane day to day of office life together. The meetings, annoying coworkers and you can’t forget about the misogynistic boss! When Ryan lands a new opportunity, he realizes how different things will be without Katie by his side in the office.
I loved watching these two navigate their feelings and grow to trust their gut and listen to their hearts. Ryan had me swooning with his list of surprises. Katie showed what a strong woman she was and stood up for what was best for her. Thank you for letting me read and review this book!
I loved watching these two navigate their feelings and grow to trust their gut and listen to their hearts. Ryan had me swooning with his list of surprises. Katie showed what a strong woman she was and stood up for what was best for her. Thank you for letting me read and review this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A slow burn worth the wait. This sweetest & cutest book, the book was very relatable which made me more invested.
Ryan is the sweetest MMC, the way he looks out for Katie & the small things he does for her, he had my heart! Katie was so relatable, I was so happy to see her become strong and believe in herself again!
The story had a great mix of different emotions, fun, laughter, hurt, love. This book has it in! I adored Jim & Katie’s family, a really feel good book and nice read! You won’t regret picking this up.
✨ friends to lovers
✨ workplace romance
✨ forced proximity
✨ he falls first
Thank you Waverly for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ryan is the sweetest MMC, the way he looks out for Katie & the small things he does for her, he had my heart! Katie was so relatable, I was so happy to see her become strong and believe in herself again!
The story had a great mix of different emotions, fun, laughter, hurt, love. This book has it in! I adored Jim & Katie’s family, a really feel good book and nice read! You won’t regret picking this up.
✨ friends to lovers
✨ workplace romance
✨ forced proximity
✨ he falls first
Thank you Waverly for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
You want to talk about slow burns? This guys been in love with her for SEVEN years without telling her...my guy shoot your shot! 😂
This was a super cute story with some heavier topics in the work place, honestly things we should probably address more than we do, so i really enjoyed that the author talked about these things. But I loved Ryan, what a sweet man, has some flaws obvi but what man doesn't? I thought that them navigating their friendship and figuring things out together near the end of the book was so cute!
Loved learning more about them both, and I love a HEA!! 🫶🏻 thanks for letting me read this early!!!
This was a super cute story with some heavier topics in the work place, honestly things we should probably address more than we do, so i really enjoyed that the author talked about these things. But I loved Ryan, what a sweet man, has some flaws obvi but what man doesn't? I thought that them navigating their friendship and figuring things out together near the end of the book was so cute!
Loved learning more about them both, and I love a HEA!! 🫶🏻 thanks for letting me read this early!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I felt like I was a coworker and friend watching, rooting for, and relishing in this down-to-earth workplace romance! The dynamic team, Katie and Ryan, navigate moving their friendship to more as he helps her get through a tough workplace situation with another colleague. I welcomed the anticipation and slow-burn growth of their romance—the yearning, tension, and attraction escalating with their forced proximity and moving to a solid and strong relationship. I appreciated the realistic portrayal the characters and office settings and chaotic scenarios. A charming debut from the author.
Thanks to the author for the eARC
Thanks to the author for the eARC
April 28, 2026
The Deskmate Dilemma is a very cute, quick read about workplace friends who have secretly been in love with each other for years. The story covers some heavier workplace topics as well. The romance was very realistic (we all have stared at our phones for days trying to decide if we should text someone) and I appreciated that the characters were flawed and made bad decisions due to anxiety and fear of losing each other. It was the perfect use of the miscommunication trope.
I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys friends-to-lovers, slow burn, and realistic characters.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for review consideration.
I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys friends-to-lovers, slow burn, and realistic characters.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for review consideration.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Read✨
I really loved the storyline of this one. It’s such a strong, unique concept and it genuinely kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
There were a few moments where the pacing felt a little slow or slightly repetitive for me, which took me out of the story here and there.
That said, this being a debut novel is so impressive. You can really see the creativity and potential in the writing, and that made me appreciate it even more.
I can’t wait to see how this author grows. I’ll definitely be reading what she writes next 🤍
I really loved the storyline of this one. It’s such a strong, unique concept and it genuinely kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
There were a few moments where the pacing felt a little slow or slightly repetitive for me, which took me out of the story here and there.
That said, this being a debut novel is so impressive. You can really see the creativity and potential in the writing, and that made me appreciate it even more.
I can’t wait to see how this author grows. I’ll definitely be reading what she writes next 🤍
June 8, 2026
This was a fun, slow-burning rom con. I think there were definitely moments where I wanted to shake Ryan's shoulders and be like what the heck are you doing...you're blowing it. But then I took a moment to self-reflect and realized how many moments have I had where I was Ryan. Where I shied away, was avoidant, or was too busy overthinking to actually do the scary thing.
This book is for those moments when you realize what love is in a friend. How important it is to live for yourself and not for work.
This book is for those moments when you realize what love is in a friend. How important it is to live for yourself and not for work.
April 2, 2026
I read this as an ARC. I’ve been hoping to have the opportunity to get an advance reader copy, so I accepted a book that is outside my preferred genres. I am glad that I did. I rarely rate a romance above 2. This book had a fun vibe, an interesting story and compelling characters.i think the character development was the strongest element of the story. Both main characters grew and evolved throughout the story, without sudden unexplained jumps out of character (which is a common occurrence among romance novels). One of the things that I think the author had a strong command of, was the language of anxiety. The only negative that I experienced was that Ryan was kind of an overthinking goof, who frequently sabotaged himself and his agenda. To be fair, that’s what made the story move.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"Love was never on their to-do list, but it's the one deadline thy can't ignore"
Fantastic dual pov story of long term work colleagues Katie and Ryan. These two have known each other for years - best friends who share everything but Ryan is holding a secret of his own. How will Katie react to his news? Will it wreck their friendship or bring them closer together?
Looking forward to reading more of Waverly O'Brian's work - an author to watch.
Fantastic dual pov story of long term work colleagues Katie and Ryan. These two have known each other for years - best friends who share everything but Ryan is holding a secret of his own. How will Katie react to his news? Will it wreck their friendship or bring them closer together?
Looking forward to reading more of Waverly O'Brian's work - an author to watch.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you're looking for The Office vibes of Jim and Pam. This book is for you.
A sweet office romance, friends to lovers where fmc Katie secretly crushes on her bestfriend and "deskmate" Ryan. Set with realistic challenges, mysoginy in the workplace, a staff fun day and lots more.
If you're looking for a cozy romance to curl on the couch with. Definitely give The Deskmate Dilemma a go!
A sweet office romance, friends to lovers where fmc Katie secretly crushes on her bestfriend and "deskmate" Ryan. Set with realistic challenges, mysoginy in the workplace, a staff fun day and lots more.
If you're looking for a cozy romance to curl on the couch with. Definitely give The Deskmate Dilemma a go!
Review of advance copy
2.5 stars
I want to preface this by saying the writing was great, but I just don't think the story was for me. The characters were lovely; I just think the book seemed to basically be a giant miscommunication trope, which wasn't for me. The ending also seemed a tad rushed to me, but all in all, it had it's cute rom-com moments that still make it a worthwhile story.
I want to preface this by saying the writing was great, but I just don't think the story was for me. The characters were lovely; I just think the book seemed to basically be a giant miscommunication trope, which wasn't for me. The ending also seemed a tad rushed to me, but all in all, it had it's cute rom-com moments that still make it a worthwhile story.
Review of advance copy
I read this book in one sitting! Ryan and Katie had such a cute story! If a feel good, sweet romance is what you’re in the mood for then this book will not disappoint.
There was a lot of inner turmoil in this book and was at times frustrating but still I really enjoyed this book and needed to see how it ends! An easy 3.75 stars for me.
There was a lot of inner turmoil in this book and was at times frustrating but still I really enjoyed this book and needed to see how it ends! An easy 3.75 stars for me.
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