Inside the Office

by F.L. Jacob

I’m Liam Scott. I had everything. A good job, the perfect house, my dream girl that I was going to marry. I needed her to be mine, but fate had other plans. I watched her fall in love with someone else and my attempts to win her back just pushed her further away.

Left heartbroken, six months pass and fate revealed new plans for me.

Marissa Conner, a coworker and I, share an unexpected night of passion together. Things will never be the same as I realize I can’t walk away from her. Our whirlwind romance is compromised at every turn, testing our strength. Is she worth my job, worth the risk, when office policy is against us?

Realizing Marissa is my new dream do I dare risk my heart again, and with her?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

176 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 19, 2016

About the author

I am a mommy of two, wife to an amazing man, and full time employee. Life is crazy and busy! I started writing again during a group write on a Facebook group. They brought back my passion for writing that I haven’t felt since high school.

Starting this process was tedious and nerve-wracking, but my amazing ladies and my fabulous husband have inspired me to take my love for writing to the next step.

My current books are Have I Told You, I Won't Give Up on You, A Very Merry Black Hollywood Christmas, all part of the Black Hollywood Series. Coming Soon will be Give Me All of You, book 3 in the BH Series.

Coming later 2015, One in a Million. New Characters, New story, Standalone! More information coming soon.

Reviews

[Donna ~ The Romance Cover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inside the Office by FL Jacob
4 stars!!!

“You’re making it very difficult to be a gentleman.”
“Who asked you to?”

This is another short story from FL Jacob and if you have read Behind the Computer you will recognise Liam as the man that Sawyer left for her cover model. I have to admit, in Behind the Computer I thought Liam was a bit of an ass, but after reading his story my perception of him really changed and I actually felt sorry for him. It just goes to show that there are two sides to every story. However, this is fate at its finest as Liam definitely hadn’t met “the one.” The one comes in the form of Marissa and while this was a tad insta-lust I have come to expect it in shorts. But what the author lacks in word count is definitely made up in an addicting read that will have you rooting for this couple from the very beginning.

“I’m in trouble.” ~ Liam
“How much do you need and where do I need to send the bail money?” ~ Zach
“…I think I’m on a date.” ~ Liam

While Liam and Marissa work in the same office they had never really noticed one another. Liam had been working his fingers to the bone and his head rarely came up for a breather, but it is a chance encounter outside of work that puts these two on one another’s radar. Their chemistry was palpable, their connection was undeniable, office politics…a whole new ball game.

I have to say that the office part of their relationship was handled extremely well, the bedroom was combustible and the easy flowing banter and friendship that these two manage to develop in such a short space of time will leave you in no doubt that these two belonged together. While Liam had been moping around for months after the demise of his relationship he soon gets that twinkle back in his eye and the change in him as soon as Marissa comes into his life and his bed was astounding. Marissa brought out the real Liam and I loved what I saw.

“The way that Marissa and I moved together was so freeing. It didn’t feel robotic or uncertain; it felt like we’d known each other forever and it was just another day that we couldn’t keep our hands off each other.”

Marissa was a tad shy and introvert in the office, she kept her head down and herself to herself, but Marissa had a wild side, especially between the sheets. Liam had certainly met his match with her, but Liam gave her confidence and made her shine so they really did complement each other beautifully.

I also loved Liam’s relationship with his best friend and colleague, there was one conversation that had me chuckling for an age, reminiscent of a similar conversation me and my husband have had in regards to our own daughter.

“Boys would be so much easier; you only have to worry about one dick with boys but with girls you have to worry about all of them.”

So, if you are looking for a quick read that will steam up your kindle then this is the ideal book for you. Fun, flirty and hot and if you haven’t read Behind the Computer I can highly recommend that one too.

www.theromancecover.com

[Renee at Book Happiness · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this for an honest review..I have to say I fall more in love with this author the more I read of hers...

I wasn't really sure how I would feel about this book and I have to say I loved Liam and Marissa's story although a shorter one I just found myself loving Liam and wanting more of him and Marisssa..

The only thing about this book I wished were different if it were a bit longer but otherwise a very wonderful story I just fell in love with!

[Dana Busenbark · Rating 4 out of 5]

After Liam and Sawyer's breakup, what happens to him? One day, when he finally goes to the mall to return the last thing he had that reminds him of his relationship with Sawyer, who does he run into? Wow, after running into a co-worker, he invites her to lunch. What happens at lunch that he escapes to the restroom to call a buddy? Is the 'date' going that poorly? Marissa seems like a nice lady. What happens when they realize how much time has passed on their lunch date as they sat and talked while they ate, taking their time? One day at work, Liam and Marissa get called in separately to Mr. Burns office. What happens? What panic is happening for Liam and Marissa? When they are told why they've been called in, what happens? Marissa leaves one week to go to a wedding for a sorority sister. She ends up sick that weekend. What does Liam do for her? One day, they go to see Mr. Burns on their own, after hearing some things being said around the office. What happens at that meeting? Who is it that is spreading gossip around? Why are they doing it? Well, we definitely have speculation. I hope there will be another book to this series, because I had a great time reading this book. I have to say I really loved Liam's response to Mr. Burns' comment about Marissa and what he does instead.

RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.

[Melinda ~ Twinsie Talk · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of the book from the author for an honest review.

This is a short story that had me turning the pages. I enjoy F.L. Jacobs writing style. You do not have to read Behind the Computer to read Inside the Office. However, after reading Inside the Office I want to go back and read Behind the Computer.

Liam is trying to get over losing his true love to another. He is even getting rid of the last memory of her when he runs into Marissa. He knew nothing about Marissa other than she worked at the same company he did. There was something there he just knew it and had to pursue her.
Marissa is drawn to Liam but wants to keep their relationship quiet. However, when things at the office get shaken up it could mean they will have to choose between their jobs and their relationship.

I enjoyed getting to know all the characters in this book wish there was a little more. Sometimes short stories just aren’t enough and they need to be longer. I enjoyed seeing Liam and Marissa trying to see where things would go while keeping it out of the office gossip mill. The kiss he leaves at her desk daily was so sweet. Loved how Caston Black of Black Hollywood made an appearance. I am excited to see what F.L. Jacob has in store for us next.

[DianaC-Bookaholic And · Rating 5 out of 5]

●▬▬▬▬๑۩ 5 STAR REVIEW ۩๑▬▬▬▬▬●


Everyone has suffered a broken heart, but not everyone is lucky to find your true love in your place of work. Marissa Connor and Liam Scott will take you to a journey of healing their wounded hearts.

Liam didn't know his heart would jump start thanks to bumping into Marissa, a two-toned eye gorgeous co-worker. Neither of them knew their lives would change forever.

Being a fan of FL Jacob, I knew this book would be one hot steamy love story and she delivered. The bottom line of this amazing story is love, love will conquer everything and anything. As Liam and Marissa show you how easy is to love someone, especially your soulmate.

Do not miss this lovable story, you will love the characters and will become an instant fan of this incredible Author.

Gifted by author in exchange for an honest review.

https://www.facebook.com/Bookaholican...

[Elizabeth Clinton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you do when you think you have everything and then you don't that's the question that Liam Scott has been asking himself for the past six months.
Finally tired of his life at a standstill he takes that last step to move on and what he doesn't see coming is bumping into his co worker Marissa at the mall and seeing her in a whole different light.
Marissa and Liam start on a whirlwind but can working together halt what they have or can they find a way to make it work. We see how much they want it all to work out and will go to some lengths to make it happen.
As you watch this relationship develop over time you are cheering them on to find that HEA after what they both been through to get there.

[Tina Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another 4 star read from Sassy! I really enjoyed this book the only problem was it's a novella and I want so much more...lol
This is kinda of an extension of Behind the Computer where we meet Liam. But we only heard Sawyers pov and in this book it's all Liam. This can be read as a standalone but I think you would be able to get a better understanding of what's happening. Shows how some things are better off not working out the way you have planned. That things often work out for the better. This are fast reads and I read them both in one day so if you looking for a shirt read both of these books are perfect for you.

[Mayas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me start from the end. Liam and Marissa handled that like a "BOSS". I am happy Liam got his story because his poor heart was broken but he had a point. Him and Skylar were comfortable not fully in love. I am happy he saw it and understood the difference, he felt his own happy. Experiencing a connection with a true soulmate is an indescribable feeling. Liam and Marissa clicked and he was more present in that relationship. Good job F.L. Jacob on giving him the woman of his dreams, his true partner.

[Recipe Fairy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a whirlwind short-story romance that left me with some panting office fantasies! Short, sweet and spicy, it's a modern day fairytale with tons of hotness! Starting off with a bang, this novella was fast-paced and quickly chronicles a whirlwind affair without any dull moments. The romance was sizzling, and the storyline was realistic and completely believable. This was a perfect short read that fulfilled my spicy needs quickly! I can't wait to see what other works the author comes out with!

[Socially Book Nerd · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given a free copy for an honest review, it took me a while to finish this book. It is generally well written and you get into the groove with the characters, But the Story just didn't do anything for me. Liam is really a sweet and genuine guy, wronged in the past. Melissa is sassy and cute. They work together and face lots I mean lots of challenges... I think that was my problem. But all in all an ok read.

[Kimmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Liam and Marissa's story. This story will suck you right in and not let you leave until the very last page.

[Alphas Do It Better Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

Ok I binge read Behind the Computer and Inside the Office and loved them both! We first met Liam in Behind the Computer, where his relationship with Sawyer comes to an end. In this next installment, Liam is still struggling to pick up the pieces of his broken heart. Now I have to admit, I didn’t really care for Liam in the first book. He seemed like a selfish prick, but as always, there are two sides to every story and we learn his side in this one.

Thinking he never wanted to date again, he finds himself bumping, literally, into a beautiful woman with a love for lace thongs. Imagine his surprise when he realizes he works with this woman. Marissa is a breath of fresh air and is immediately smitten with Liam, even though his best friend is her boss. Things progress rather quickly between the two, and Liam finds himself on a date.
This is a great read about mending a broken heart and actually finding your “one”. It’s a beautifully written book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Angela – Alphas Do It Better Book Blog

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

***ARC received for honest review****

I was thrilled when FL first sent me the ARC for this book. While it took me a while to open my kindle to read (thanks, real life!), once I found the time to read Liam's story, I found myself getting through the book faster than I thought I would. Maybe I just read fast, who knows.

Anyway, we first start off with Liam's days after his world collapses from Sawyer breaking up with him. Now, in order to read Inside the Office, you should definitely first pick up Behind the Computer, where we are really first introduced to Sawyer and Liam. So, from Liam's perspective, first we see him starting to move forward with his life. He returns the ring he bought for what he thought was his true love. But fate, ah that glorious fate, has a way of coming into play when you least suspect it.

In Liam's case, that involved bumping into someone and one lacy red thong. When he sees the owner of said thong, he is shocked because he knows the owner oh so well. It turns out, Liam and Marissa are co-workers.

As the novel goes on, we see the relationship begin to bloom between Liam and Marissa. Now, I admit, I was a little...shocked, I guess, at how fast the relationship was moving between these two characters. First, there was flirting, and then suddenly, they're rolling in bed together. When work starts to interfere with their personal lives, it's up to Liam and Marissa to decide if love is worth the risk of making a living through work.

As with all FL's books, there is a HEA, so that was a plus for me as well.

Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy this book. I liked watching Liam move on from Sawyer, and finding his own way. I guess a part of me just wished that Liam and Marissa's relationship did not move as quickly as it did. Otherwise, I would recommend this novel to those of you who love FL's other books.

[Ebbie ~Author Groupies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inside the Office is a continuation of Behind the Computer. Liam is the boyfriend that Sawyer left for Caleb, her cover model. ITO is Liam’s story about what happens in his life after the breakup. Will he be able to move on from Sawyer and get his HEA?

I must admit that in the beginning of BTC I wasn’t the biggest fan of Liam; then in the end I felt guilty for those feelings and wanted to see him happy. Liam has pretty much given up on love since Sawyer but as soon as he decides to let go of the past he stumbles into someone, could she be the love of his life? I loved Liam in this story, he was a true gentlemen and a good guy. Marissa was spunky and seemed to bring out the best in Liam.
I love this story and the concept of finding love in the office.

This book is packed with the feels, like I said Liam is a gentleman, attentive, and very swoon-worthy. Poor Marissa had her share of bad dates until Liam came along and stumbled into her in the mall. What started as an embarrassing moment for her turned into the best date of her life. I was so happy that Liam finally found happiness. Liam finds love when he wasn’t looking for it and the person he was meant to be with had been there all along he just hadn’t opened his eyes to see her in that way before. I also loved the appearance of other characters from the author’s other series. ITO was full of office drama, friendship, love and of course some hot sex scenes. I did wish that the book was a little longer because I wasn’t ready for their story to end. This is a great afternoon read. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Jacob has in store next.

[Jenny Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you read Behind the computer than you will remember Liam he was dating Sawyer in the first book. Since the break-up Liam has been a little lost unsure of himself even until one day he bumps into a woman from his office in the mall. Liam has but hasn't really seen Marissa in the past. However on this day he feels a crackle between them that he has never felt with any woman including Sawyer. However after his time with Sawyer he is a little insecure and a little gun shy to put a label on what they have. Liam wonders can he have a woman to call his own this time or will he be left sitting all alone again.

Marissa has seen Liam around the office but was told he had a girlfriend so she didn't push anything with him. She has heard the roomers about the fact that Sawyer cheated on him because other authors have talked about it. She never pushes him for the whole story but hopes one day he will trust her enough with it. There is a part of Marissa that is a little gun shy about labeling this whatever they are because they work in the same office. Marissa likes her job and doesn't want to loose it just because she is seeing someone of higher rank than her. Can she get past her insecurities and really give Liam a chance?

This is a great story about falling in love after going through something that makes you question who you are. This book is a short story like Behind the Computer, but it packs a punch. We get to see how men deal with a breakup and seeing the ex again for the first time. I would highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

[Diane Holtry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Work place fraternization at its best - the desk never looked so good!

FL Jacob has given us yet another amazing story and she's managed to tie it to the Black Hollywood series. Liam and Marissa work in the same office, but don't really "notice" each other until a chance encounter. After the first accidental run-in, their chemistry is undeniable. The ease at which their relationship develops is portrayed effortlessly on the pages and when they come together, it's down right combustible.

Liam's realizes and comes to terms with the fact that "the one" might not have been "the one" after all. Then, when he least expects it, the universe aligns, paths are crossed and fireworks erupt. What happens after can only be described as fate.

I loved the idea that love takes precedence over your job. The "rules" of fraternization in the workplace is a real world issue that FL Jacobs brings to the forefront. How can anyone assume to tell us who we can and can not fall in love with? When it's right, it's right and that's all there is to it!

Hang on tight, clean off your desk and prepare to be taken for a ride!

[United Indie Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is about Liam and Marissa. This book is a second chance book that was really good. When I read the blurb about this book it caught my attention and I couldn’t wait to start it . I Really liked this book but I thought it could have been so much more to it. Don’t get me wrong the passion, the romance, a touch of drama all of that was there but it felt a little rushed to me. This story had the potential to go anywhere it wanted but it went way too fast.
The plot, the characters everything was in place for a spectacular story instead of a good story. The character’s emotions drew me in from the beginning. Marissa and Liam connection was instant and so very hot. Their relationship had various ups and downs that made the story. I that some parts of the story felt forced and unnecessary and it took away from the main focus of Liam and Marissa.
All in all I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend this series for anyone who wants a hot series that will not disappoint you much. This will not be my last book by F.L.Jacob because I’m pretty sure if I enjoyed Inside the Office then I will definitely enjoy others .

review by Lindsey

[Chip · Rating 4 out of 5]

It takes Liam Scott 6 months to recover from Sawyer; the one woman he truly believed would hold his heart forever. But after an unexpected collision with co-worker Marissa Conner and an unforgettable night together, it soon transpires to feelings and emotions rousing like never before.

Liam is soon realising, Sawyer is in his past for a reason and Marissa could be the future he didn't foresee. The only thing standing between the two are their jobs, and sooner or later decisions will have to be made inside the office, but at what cost?

A short sexy read, with great characters and an intriguing storyline to keep you well entertained.

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another 4 star read from Sassy! I really enjoyed this book the only problem was it's a novella and I want so much more...lol
This is kinda of an extension of Behind the Computer where we meet Liam. But we only heard Sawyers pov and in this book it's all Liam. This can be read as a standalone but I think you would be able to get a better understanding of what's happening. Shows how some things are better off not working out the way you have planned. That things often work out for the better. This are fast reads and I read them both in one day so if you looking for a shirt read both of these books are perfect for you.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this for an honest review..I have to say I fall more in love with this author the more I read of hers...

I have to say I loved Liam and Marissa's story although a shorter one I just found myself loving Liam and wanting more of him and Marissa.. You really did not hear anything about Marissa. You get get that Liam and her works together and then starts dating/

The only thing about this book I wished were different if it were a bit longer but otherwise a very wonderful story I just fell in love with!

[Karrie Mellott Puskas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't sure if I was going to like Liam after Sawyers book. But I was pleasantly surprised that I ended up liking his story. I wish we had a longer book with Liam and Marissa. I enjoyed their relationship as it progressed. I would like to see more of this couple. Sawyer and Caleb story takes a backseat to this couple.

[Jaime · Rating 3 out of 5]

“I’m in trouble.” ~ Liam
“How much do you need and where do I need to send the bail money?” ~ Zach
“…I think I’m on a date.” ~ Liam

Liam and Marissa bump into each other (literally) at the mall. Their whirlwind romance while intense happily lacked too much of the "we can't be together because we work at the same company" drama.

This was a quick and enjoyable office romance.

[Ashley Stevenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received advanced copy from United Indie Book Blog for my honest review. Liam and Marissa attraction sparks after one night between them. This story was like no other and special in its own way. No one can't help who they love but always enjoy the second chances been giving to you. Each character didn't give up on finding true love even if it wasn't to the other person from their past.

[Taylor · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was alright. Too short to flesh out the main characters. I knew nothing about them other than their immediate past and what was developing in the moment.

Wasn't bad or anything just could have been better.

[Marie Carlisle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insta love!

Finally he got a woman who was all his!! I loved this story and the insta-love. It was perfect. The way they just knew that they had to be together I could feel it. I'm so glad this story ended the way it did.

[Raj · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

1st Person - Hero's POV
Interesting story
not boring
I like the story flow, the characters and the drama.
I was waiting for a time that the story would drag...but it didn't happen!
It was enough and I like it.

[Marissa Michaelsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pretty cool ARC.
I adored Liam. Marissa was a pistol in the beginning.
The relationship between these two had me rooting for them the entire time..

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series!! Everyone needs to read this book!! Need a short story one click !

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good

Short and sweet about inter office romance. Its super feast paced but its still good enough to hold your interest.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this book!

This was a sweet hot short read! I was intrigued with him in the first book and fell in love with him! I highly recommend this series!