Not Safe for Work is easily an 11 out of 10!

I adored everything about this romcom: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, dreamy vacation setting — but also a workplace romance. I want to BE Tris and BE WITH Rafe.

The build-up was perfection. So much 🔥 tension! And the ending? I swooned.

Ordered a trophy copy for my shelves. More of this, please!

Thanks to NetGalley & Forever (Grand Central Publishing) | Forever for access to the ARC!

#NotSafeforWork #NetGalley

Omg, this book is so cute! I love me a workplace romance any day of the week. This one was a fun ride, you have enemy to lovers, boss..kinda, women in stem....love her for that, we are comically underrepresented. I just had allot of fun with this one. Don't go in expecting a deep story or angst ...... This one is short, sweet and fun.

As a chronically ill Latina working in corporate USA, it was so good to see Chronic Ill rep in Tris, a chronically ill Indian woman and total icon of a character. While I very much enjoyed the romance aspects and banter and rivalry of the book, I find myself sitting here thinking about the inspiration that Tris left me with— how to feel more confident in my self, how to advocate more for my voice and the voice of others in an incredibly male dominated field, and to stick true to my values and not let that same work force change who I am as a person— and having that courage to say no and leave that environment? Thank you Nisha. Thank you.

I am so thankful that Forever Publishing sent me this arc for my honest review without having to request the book on Netgalley (which I would have!)

An incredible first step into the contemporary romance world from her usual home in fantasy! Ms. Tuli captured all the important beats of a romance, while also weaving in her personal perspective as a bi-racial woman in engineering, navigating a male-dominated feel. Although the story between the main characters is light-hearted, steamy, and a fun slow burn, her peripheral portrayal of the dark underbelly of what life for women in these roles can be like is so real and important. Beyond a great, spicy love story, I hope this book inspires the Trishara's in the world! We need you!

4⭐️
This was such a fun slow burn romance! I have heard so much about Nisha from her fantasy series but have never read them so I was excited to see how she moved into romance. I loved the tie between the rom-com feels and STEM moments (very Ali Hazelwood coded we love!!). Tris is an engineer working in a male dominated field and is often working against the male prejudice in her workplace. She gets invited to a company training retreat where she ends up having to share a room with the CEO’s son, Rafe, our MMC. I LOVED the dynamic between Tris and Rafe in this. The tension and banter between them was apparent from the very beginning and only got better as the book went on. I liked that Nisha handled harder topics and moments in this but balanced it with humor. Tris did read a bit immature at times with her behavior but nowhere enough that I didn’t like her character. Tris is such a strong badass FMC and I loved seeing her learn to stand up for herself and demand her worth by the end! The ending of this book was SOO cute and had me grinning ear to ear. I will definitely be checking Nisha’s fantasy series out now because I loved her writing! Overall, this was such a fun cute read!!

Thank you endlessly to Forever for this e-ARC! 🤎

Review: Not Safe for Work by Nisha J. Tuli
Release date: May 20, 2025

“Rafe, why did you draw me?”
“Because I draw things that are beautiful to me.”

TLDR: This was SUCH a fun RomCom, perfect for summer reading!
Rating: 4/5
Spice level: 2.5/5

This was a great, short, light-hearted but meaningful read. It addresses the FMC’s workplace struggle as a woman of colour in a male-dominated field. It was relatable in many ways and made me root for her even harder. This book mixes important topics with light-hearted fun and addictive relationship-building. The tension and build-up between the two main characters is DELICIOUS (pun intended… IFYKY).

Nisha truly nails it again! I have been obsessed with all of her fantasy series, so it’s no shock that I loved the writing but I was surprised at how easily she flowed between writing genres. At this point, she could write a grocery list and I would happily read it.

Highly recommend! Especially at the beach with a little drinky-drink. It’s the perfect summer read!

Starting this out by saying I don't typically read or enjoy contemporary romance but I love Nisha and she made me love this book! She has a way with writing main characters in love that feel like real people. I devoured this book, 4.75 stars.

Ooh, Not Safe for Work...where to even begin?! I could gush about every single element of this gorgeous book! The setting? Fabulous! The plot? Empowering! The leads? Had me on my knees worshipping their every move! I consider this a perfect romance.

We have some delicious forced proximity as rival coworkers Trishara and Rafe are forced to share a honeymoon suite whilst attending a work retreat in Maui. And there's only one bed...

When it comes to romances I do tend to favor dual POV, but I did not miss that here whatsoever. I could live in Tris’ mind forever, honestly. I love her inner monologue, her humor, and I also love and admire that she values herself assuredly as a person, never compromising her beliefs and stance for others. The romance she experiences is oh so delectable, but I also am in awe of her own personal arc. Author Nisha J. Tuli centers Tris in a male-dominated work environment to highlight the overall plight many women, especially women of color, face in such settings. I won’t give anything away, but I felt so proud of Tris, for how she resolved to stand up for herself and feel confident in her choices, actions and words. Even when hurt, her heart stayed resolute in every final decision made. Can one be proud of a fictional character? Answer: heck yes! Because I walked away from this book not simply delighted by its massively worthwhile romance, but also feeling proud of a heroine whose steps I want to follow.

This is Trishara's book and she owns it in spectacular fashion.

As she owns one of the best love stories I’ve ever read!

I was giggling over the relationship between Tris and Rafe! They may think they are exchanging icy daggers with their eyes, but it’s apparent from the onset that the only temperature in the room is scorching hot, whew! The chemistry was electric, vibrant, and addicting. I don’t know what I had a more fun time reading: these two kids poking endless fun at each other, or them finally giving into what their hearts tried to resist for so long. Something that feels an awful lot like loooove. Bah! I’m blushing and smiling just thinking back to all my favorite scenes between them! It’s such a good, good feeling.

Now! Rafe did frustrate me a bit when it came to certain phone calls, but we come to learn he is very much a people pleaser. This is where we see Rafe’s growth through Tris’ eyes as she helps bring out in him what she brings forth for herself, and that is standing up for yourself. To not live out others’ expectations, but to chase one's own dreams. To establish boundaries. To say no without guilt. It’s not just a passionate connection formed between Tris and Rafe, it’s a beautifully emotional one too. One in the making for the five years, oh how worth the wait they are for one another.

It’s just…it all worked. All of it. I had a giant ol’ grin by book’s end. I immediately rushed to preorder myself a copy. I know this is a story I not only want to keep forever but to revisit again and again.

Thank you, thank you so kindly to Forever and NetGalley for this advanced complimentary copy, I leave this honest review voluntarily.

I was initially drawn to this book for its strong premise—highlighting white male privilege, blatant nepotism, and the uphill battle women of color face in male-dominated industries. That part? I was fully on board. It’s rare to see these themes explored so directly in a romcom, and I appreciated the author’s attempt to bring attention to the exhausting reality of workplace inequality.

Unfortunately, the execution didn’t work for me. The characters, particularly the leads, felt flat and unlikeable. The FMC sometimes lacked a backbone, which was disappointing given her powerful professional setup. And the MMC? Honestly, I couldn’t tell you anything distinct about him—he left zero impression. His ongoing issues with his ex (who kept calling with no resolution) while still sleeping with the FMC felt frustrating and unnecessary. Like… my guy, the block button is right there and costs nothing.

Also, the setup—two employees accidentally booked into the honeymoon suite on a work trip? Very odd. The relationship development relied heavily on telling rather than showing, so I never really connected with their romance or felt the chemistry.

This one wasn’t for me, but I can see it working for others who enjoy workplace rivals-to-lovers tropes with social commentary. I just needed more depth, more character, and more spark.

3.25 stars.
Having read a fantasy from Nisha J Tuli before I was so excited to try a contemporary romance from her. Right off the bat, the first couple of chapters were amazing and I adored how sassy Tris was. I can really tell Nisha put a lot of thought into her. The writing style was pretty fun and I always enjoy reading about women in STEM.
I really wish the amount of care that was put into Tris was equally put into Rafe but unfortunately I just never really felt as though I knew him.

I really enjoyed the premise of the book but I feel the island setting wasn't well utilized enough as they were doing conference related activities most of the time. I also think there were some tropes in here that frankly cheapened the story (double booking the hotel room)

Something else I didn't connect with were some of the characters view's. For instance: "ladies first" one character says which is answered with "that's sexist." No its not and as a major feminist I feel like focusing on calling this sexist is silly. Another time: "you haven't gone on a date in over a year that's unusual for your age" these types of societal "rules" are so unnecessary and contribute to making us feel like we are behind in life if not followed.

And lastly, ex-girlfriend drama??? Its a personal ick for me and I couldn't look past it. Unfortunately this was a miss for me however I'm still interested in her other books.

Thank you to Forever for the eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

TYSM NETGALLEY & GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING FOR THE ARC 🫶🏽 4.75 ⭐️!!!

I haven’t read a fluffy romance that’s made me feel this giddy in a long time 🥺💗 I’m talking gasping, squealing, and kicking my feet up type giddy!!! It’s giving complete summer romance read feels in the best way possible! I LOVED Tris and Rafe’s chemistry SO MUCH! Their banter was perfect and it felt like a true rivals to lovers romance with all the right tension in all the right places. The pace of it all was timed perfectly, nothing felt really rushed, and it felt like such a delicious and satisfying slow burn. As a female POC, I thought the plot was relatable and I connected so much to not just our fmc but to the other female supporting characters as well (even Diane). The forced proximity of it all……… delectable. Chef’s kiss. My only regret is not reading this on a beach in Hawaii with a margarita in my hand. The writing felt incredibly fun and well thought out.

Cannot WAIT for this one to come out and for all of you to enjoy Tris and Rafe just as much as I did!

This book highlights really important topics such as women in STEM, the sexism and misogyny in the workplace, and the importance of diversity. THIS IS A WOMAN STANDING UP FOR HERSELVES AND FOR OTHERS. But also set to the steamiest, sexiest, hottest little workplace enemies-to-lovers stories. Because we also LOVE sex positivity, thank you very much.

I really loved following along this journey with Tris. It was so amazing to read as she discovered her fire and her passion again. I honestly resonated with her so much. This fiery personality that literally cannot be quiet when something is wrong (and quite often feeling ostracized because you had the gall to say something). I am so here for it.

Women should never be silent. We should always make sure our voices are heard – and if they aren’t being heard, YELL.

For once in my life, I am so happy this book was not dual POV – I loved the guessing and the miscommunication. Seriously, who am I?! Also literally doing a happy dance for one of my favorite tropes: one bed.

The banter. The tension. SO. GOOD.

I think Nisha does a fantastic job blending the balance of discussing extremely relevant topics such as highlighting WOC in STEM and the passion that has been brewing between our MCs.

ARC REVIEW!

Thank you to Forever Pub and NetGalley for the EARC and ALC of “Not Safe For Work” available on May 20th!

Tris is tired. She works in a male dominated field and has gotten passed up for opportunities and promotions so many times she has basically given up. Then she was surprisingly chosen to go on a three week company retreat to Maui! The only problem? So was Rafe, boss’ son and her sworn enemy. Nbd, she can just ignore him….. until they’re seated next to each other on the plane…. And they were mistakenly booked in the same room…. And, of course, there’s only one bed.

This book has EVERYTHING you want in an enemies to lovers, work place romance:

🌴 Pining, longing and SO MUCH TENSION

🌴 Forced proximity and only one bed

🌴 Witty banter

🌴 Slow burn

🌴 Forearms….. so much forearms

🌴 He comforts her

🌴 She is strong and confident

I think this solidified that workplace romances aren’t for me! The dynamic between these two never vibed with me and I just couldn’t get into it.

Overall: I really liked this! The good parts are REALLY good and the stuff that didn’t work for me probably won’t be a big deal for most readers. Details below. Thanks to Forever Pub and Hachette Audio for the gifted copy!

What I liked:
-Rafe (the MMC) — hands down, the best part of this book. He’s level-headed, supportive, and genuinely a really great love interest.
-The chemistry — Trish and Rafe have off the charts chemistry. It’s swoony and it feels sooo real.
-3rd act drama — Without spoilers, I can say I appreciated the way the third act conflict was handled. No dramatic meltdown, no absurd miscommunication. Just two adults figuring it out, which was refreshing.
-Workplace commentary — The exploration of what it’s like to be a woman of color in a white male dominated field is thoughtfully handled.

What I didn’t love:
-Trish’s attitude — especially in the first two-thirds of the book, she and her BFF won’t shut up about her year-long dry spell in a way that got old fast.
-Corporate potholes — If you’ve worked in a corporate environment, you’ll probably find that a few of the key events in this book could never happen… not even at the worst run company. It didn’t ruin the book, but it pulled me out of the story a few times. I can’t give specifics w/o spoilers, but DM me if you want details!

Five stars, hands down. If you love banter, "enemies" to lovers, one-bed, TENSION, and workplace romance.. this is for you. Honestly if you like romance in the slightest, this is for you. Seriously I don't want to spoil anything but this is fun, sexy, and empowering all at once.

Narrators did a fantastic job with the snark, spice, and heart.

LOVE the nod to Nisha's Artefacts of Ouranos series.

there is nothing better than forcing two coworkers who don’t like each other yet have intense sexual tension to share a hotel suite together. 🫡 not safe for work follows tris, a woman in a man’s work place, get chosen for a retreat in hawaii for three weeks with the one guy she can’t stand, the owner’s son, rafe. despite being very obvious about her attraction, she is angry to find they have to share a honeymoon suite at the resort they’re at. lots of forced proximity and team building exercises cause them to grow the sexual tension between one another but she is still stuck on her no dating rule in her work place.

man, the tension in the book was radiating off the pages every time they were near each other! i genuinely had a fun time all the way through, wanting to know when the two of them were finally going to snap and just let themselves enjoy the one thing they want: each other! 🙂‍↕️ i think the author did a great job portraying their reasoning behind why it would work, it didn’t feel repetitive at all and i just loved it! there were a couple things that kept it from being a five star for me but i still highly recommend it to others who just want a steamy beach read!

Trishara Malik had dreams of being a trailblazer for women in STEM, but has been worn down by years of watching her white male counterparts, particularly the boss's son and her nemesis, Rafe Gallagher, receive promotions that she rightly deserved. She is absolutely floored when she is told that she was one of two engineers selected to attend a corporates leadership retreat in Maui. Sure, she may have to attend this retreat with Rafe, but how difficult could it be to completely avoid him in a massive Hawaiian resort? Apparently more difficult than she anticipated because due to a booking error, it looks like she will be spending the next three weeks in the only vacant room on the property--the honeymoon suite--with her biggest work rival. Welp. At least it's no hardship to look at him.

Before I had even finished reading this book, I was firing off messages to my friends INSISTING that they pick up a copy when it's released. Y'all. I LOVED it. I know a slow burn where the reader is edged for 2/3 of the story isn't everyone's cuppa, but it sure as hell is mine. 

I thought a weeks-long corporate retreat was a brilliant setting for an enemies-to-lovers workplace romance. Allowing the characters to spend time together in a completely different environment combined with the forced proximity of "only one hotel room" was so essential to Tris and Rafe peeling back their preconceived notions about each other. Neither one of them was what the other had expected, and conveying that sort of mutual shock when they each came to that realization in a single POV novel felt very impressive to me. A lot of the time I feel like I'm missing something when I can't experience both characters' points of view, but in this case I felt like I received so much insight about Rafe solely through his interactions with Tris. 

Not Safe for Work is an absolutely charming romcom that not only delivers on banter, tension, and spice, but also manages to touch on some very real issues regarding consent, sexism, racial microaggressions, and harassment in the workplace. Especially what women should not have to, but do, tolerate to maintain non-hostile work environments. 

Thank you to Forever, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for copies of the ARC and ALC of Not Safe For Work! All opinions are honest and my own.

After loving Nisha J Tuli's fantasy books, I was so excited to dive into her first contemporary romance - and I was not disappointed!! Part romcom and part takedown of the sexist and racist practices of Big Corporations, this book had it all (just like our girl Tris dreams!!)!

It seems like the universe wants Tris and Rafe together. These sworn rivals are sent on a 3 week corporate training and retreat together, are "accidentally" booked to share a suite (that of course only has...one bed), and paired up as partners or rivals in many many activities. As emotional walls come crumbling down and new ones keep being built, will they land on the same side or opposite sides forever?

I thought this was a super well-written story of a Woman in STEM dealing with all kinds of shit, finding her people (and finding her way AWAY from the bad ones), with a sweet romance at the heart of the story! I was rooting for Tris and Rafe from that first smirk, knowing there had to be more hidden underneath. The absolute nonsense Tris had to deal with was frustrating and all-too familiar, and I was proud of her for not letting it get her down!!

Props to Nisha for referencing her own Artefacts of Ouranos series (not by name, of course)!! A fun lil Easter egg to find :) Thank you so much to Nisha J Tuli, Forever, and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!

This book caught my attention as a suggested read after I finished *Say You’ll Remember Me*. After reading the brief synopsis, I was instantly intrigued. (Thanks, Forever!)

I was immediately swept away by the vibrant characters dreamt up by Nisha J. Tuli. Meet Trishara: a powerhouse engineer tackling the STEM world, dodging the daily minefield of both blatant and sneaky sexism and racism. Then there's Rafe, the drop-dead gorgeous son of her boss and sworn nemesis at work, with so much more going on than meets the eye. Not Safe for Work dishes out a classic workplace romance with a spicy enemies-to-lovers twist and a dash of forced proximity at a work retreat, all set in the jaw-dropping paradise of Hawaii. It's chock-full of sizzling tension, witty banter, and tender moments. The diversity woven into this rom-com masterpiece makes it sparkle beyond the usual fare. I cannot wait to dive into more of Nisha's storytelling! Grab this gem pronto—you won't regret it.