Long & Hard by Tory Baker is a contemporary romance novel that dives into the intricacies of a budding relationship between two seemingly mismatched individuals who discover that their differences may indeed be the catalyst for a potent and lasting attraction. This novel, though structured with a familiar romance trope, offers its readers both sizzle and depth, wrapped in a narrative that is engaging and emotionally resonant.

The story revolves around Elle, a determined and career-focused architect, and Rex, a dashing construction company owner known for his rugged demeanor and heart-of-gold. The narrative begins when Elle is tasked with managing a high-stakes project that Rex's company has been contracted to build. From their first meeting, the sparks fly—not all of them good. Elle's meticulous nature clashes with Rex's more laid-back approach to deadlines and planning, setting the stage for conflict, miscommunication, and a fiery romantic progression that drives the narrative.

Tory Baker excels in character development, making Elle and Rex not only believable but relatable. Elle’s backstory, involving her rise through a male-dominated field and her struggles with balancing her personal life against her career ambitions, is especially well-drawn. Rex, on the other hand, is portrayed through a lens that goes beyond the typical alpha male persona often found in romance novels. His vulnerabilities and depth of character are slowly revealed through his interactions with Elle, as well as through his relationships with other characters, such as his close-knit family and his construction crew.

The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, making the romantic scenes electric and satisfying. Baker’s writing shines in these intimate moments, which are tastefully described and laden with emotion. The romantic developments are neither rushed nor drawn out unnecessarily, striking a balance that keeps the reader hooked and invested in the outcome of their relationship.

The plot of Long & Hard is straightforward yet engaging, with enough twists to keep the narrative lively. Conflicts arise mainly from external pressures related to their work interaction and from internal conflicts within Elle concerning her fear of losing her identity in a relationship. Baker handles these issues with a nuanced understanding, allowing the reader to empathize deeply with Elle’s dilemma. This internal conflict adds a layer of realism and gravity to what might otherwise be a straightforward romantic tale.

The secondary characters in the book contribute richly to the story, providing comic relief, wisdom, and challenges that help the main characters grow. These characters, from Elle’s best friend who provides a sounding board for her relationship woes to Rex’s family who bring out different facets of his personality, are well fleshed out and integral to the story’s progression. They provide a community feel, making the reader feel invested in not only the outcome of the main relationship but also in the lives of the supporting cast.

While the setting of a construction site might seem like a backdrop for the romance, Baker uses it effectively as a metaphor for the building and layering of relationships. The descriptions of the site, the architectural designs, and the creation process parallel the growing relationship between Elle and Rex, adding an interesting dimension to the narrative. The setting becomes a dynamic part of the story, showing the progress of the project alongside the development of their relationship.

In writing style, Tory Baker maintains a brisk pace, adeptly switching between moments of tension, passion, and tenderness. Her dialogue is sharp and realistic, often laden with humor which lightens moments of intense emotion. This not only provides relief but also endears the characters to the reader, enhancing their relatability and charm.

However, the book is not without its flaws. At times, the conflict can seem a tad contrived, particularly concerning external antagonists whose motivations aren't as deeply explored as they could be. Additionally, readers who prefer a higher level of unpredictability in plot might find the storyline a bit too traditional. Nevertheless, these points do little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

Overall, Long & Hard by Tory Baker is a compelling read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance that is as thoughtful as it is steamy. The novel not only delivers in terms of a satisfying romantic tale but also challenges some genre norms by offering well-rounded, evolving characters and meaningful conflicts. It’s a delightful read that confirms the resilience and complexity of love, particularly when faced with the relentless pressures and high stakes of the modern world.