Get ready for the slow-burning office romance “Strictly Business” by Carrie Elks, featuring witty banter and character development that will leave you with a warm heart. The book didn’t just provide me with some classic enemies-to-lovers tension; instead, it gifted me a deeply emotional and mature story. A story that blends humor, vulnerability, and chemistry in remarkable ways.
“Strictly Business” features rivals Ava and Myles falling for each other amidst corporate intrigue. It’s heartfelt, full of charm, and completely binge-worthy.
- Author:- Carrie Elks
- Series:- The Salinger Brothers (Book 1)
- Pages:- 308 Pages
- Genre:- Rom-Com, Enemies-to-Lovers, Workplace, Pregnancy, Forced Proximity
- My Rating:- 5 Stars
- Goodreads: 3.88 Stars
About Strictly Business
Carrie Elks’s “Strictly Business” introduces us to Ava, a woman freshly returned from a soul-searching vacation, full of optimism and quiet resolutions. She’s feeling good, until she walks into her office and finds HIM sitting in her boss’s chair. Myles Salinger, her long-time workplace nemesis, is suddenly within arm’s reach, no longer separated by the blissful 500 miles that used to keep their rivalry comfortably distant.
Ava and Myles have never gotten along. Their professional relationship has been built on sarcastic remarks, silent standoffs, and a mutual refusal to back down. But when Myles is temporarily stationed in Ava’s office, the tension between them starts to unravel and shift.
What Myles doesn’t know is that Ava returned from her vacation with a secret: she’s decided to try for a baby on her own. And while the idea of motherhood excites her, the last person she wants knowing about it is the brooding man who now occupies every corner of her workday.
As the office dynamics shift and emotions blur, Ava starts to see a different side of Myles, one that is understanding, mature, and undeniably caring. The lines between rivalry and affection begin to blur, leading to a connection neither of them expected.
Strictly Business Review: Character Development
The heart of this story lies in its characters, particularly Ava and Myles. Ava is witty, independent, and trying to take charge of her future in the most personal way possible. Myles, on the other hand, is the real gem here. Initially, he appears to be high-handed and cold. However, we soon find out that he is much more than just a grumpy office heartthrob.
The depth of Myles’s maturity and his emotional intelligence are worth mentioning. As the story progresses, he becomes the kind of partner who listens, supports, and protects without taking over. His growth from perceived enemy to emotionally available partner was subtle but deeply satisfying.
Their evolving relationship is natural and unforced. You can feel the gradual thaw between them, and it’s built on mutual respect, real communication, and just the right amount of sassy one-liners.
The Office Romance Done Right
I’ve read my fair share of workplace romances, but “Strictly Business” does it with class and heart. The power dynamics are handled thoughtfully; neither Ava nor Myles overshadows the other. The forced proximity trope works incredibly well here. Having Myles in Ava’s space shakes up their dynamic and forces them to face what’s been simmering under the surface for years. And while the office setting is ever-present, it never feels monotonous or restrictive. In fact, it enhances the story’s stakes and intimacy.
Emotional Depth and Realism
While the romance is delightful, what truly elevates this book is the emotional nuance. Ava’s decision to become a single mother is handled with grace and honesty. It’s a personal, empowering journey that adds emotional weight to her story without overshadowing the romance.
My favorite part of the book has to be where Myles discovers Ava’s secret. His response is not filled with ego or judgment; instead, he offers so, so much compassion and care. It’s incredibly rare to see emotional maturity like this from a male lead, especially in a tropey rom-com. I feel Carrie Elks captured that beautifully.
Carrie Elks’s writing has a breezy, relatable tone that makes the story incredibly readable. The moments of humor blend perfectly with the emotional beats, keeping the tone light but never shallow. From stolen donuts to awkward office encounters, every scene is layered with warmth and wit. The humor never overshadows the emotional core; it just makes it more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
“Strictly Business” is everything you could want from a Romance Novel: sizzling tension, lovable characters, emotional growth, and a romance that feels both fun and deeply heartfelt. Ava and Myles’ story is a testament to the idea that love can come from the most unexpected places, even behind a desk in a shared office.
If you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers, office romance, or just want a feel-good story that still hits you in the feels, this book is absolutely worth picking up. Carrie Elks blends humor, heart, and humanity in a way that will leave you grinning long after the final page.
Have you read Strictly Business? Drop your thoughts in the comments. We’d love to hear what you thought of Ava and Myles! Or if you’re new to Carrie Elks, is this book going on your TBR? Let’s chat!
