B.K. Borison's Business Casual is a delightful exploration of opposites attracting, set against the backdrop of a small-town business scene. The novel deftly combines elements of romance, personal growth, and the challenges of entrepreneurship, making it a compelling read for fans of contemporary romance.

The story centers around Nova Porter, a fiercely independent and ambitious woman who is on the brink of opening her own tattoo studio in her hometown of Inglewild. Nova is not looking for love; her focus is squarely on her business. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Charlie Milford, a polished investment banker who is temporarily in town to oversee operations at Lovelight Farms.

From the outset, Borison crafts a palpable chemistry between Nova and Charlie. Their attraction is undeniable, yet both characters are initially reluctant to pursue anything beyond a fleeting encounter. Nova's proposition of a single, no-strings-attached night is a classic trope in romance literature, but Borison breathes fresh life into it with her nuanced character development and witty dialogue.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its character development. Nova is a well-rounded protagonist whose determination and passion for her craft are both inspiring and relatable. Her journey is not just about finding love but also about finding herself and establishing her place in the world. Borison does an excellent job of portraying Nova's internal struggles and growth, making her a character that readers can root for.

Charlie, on the other hand, is a character who initially seems to fit the mold of the typical romantic hero—successful, charming, and a bit mysterious. However, as the story unfolds, Borison peels back the layers of his character, revealing a man who is not only driven by his career but also deeply caring and supportive. His willingness to help Nova with her business, even when it means stepping out of his comfort zone, adds depth to his character and makes him a worthy counterpart to Nova.

The dynamic between Nova and Charlie is electric, and their interactions are filled with humor, tension, and genuine emotion. Borison's writing shines in these moments, capturing the push and pull of their relationship with authenticity and flair. The steamy scenes are tastefully done, adding to the overall chemistry without overshadowing the emotional core of the story.

Beyond the romance, Business Casual also delves into themes of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's dreams. Nova's journey to open her tattoo studio is a central plotline, and Borison skillfully weaves in the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. This aspect of the story adds depth and realism, making it more than just a love story.

In terms of setting, the small-town atmosphere of Inglewild provides a charming backdrop for the story. Borison captures the essence of a close-knit community, where everyone knows everyone else's business, and the support (or lack thereof) from the community can make or break a new venture. This setting enhances the narrative, grounding the romance in a relatable and tangible world.

Comparatively, Business Casual shares similarities with other contemporary romances that explore the theme of opposites attracting, such as Sally Thorne's The Hating Game or Christina Lauren's The Unhoneymooners. However, Borison's novel stands out due to its focus on entrepreneurship and the unique challenges faced by women in business. This angle adds a fresh perspective to the genre, appealing to readers who appreciate stories of personal and professional growth alongside romance.

Overall, Business Casual is a well-crafted romance that balances humor, heart, and heat. B.K. Borison has created a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the last page is turned. Whether you're a fan of romance or simply enjoy a good story about personal growth and chasing dreams, this novel is sure to satisfy.

For those interested in exploring more about this book, you can find it on Goodreads.