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Off the Record
When it comes to love and payback, Paisley pens her own rules
After a devastating breakup with her cheating co-worker, Paisley McConkie is determined to steer clear of her ex and his new girlfriend at all costs. But fate has other plans, thrusting them together on an unavoidable work project. Just when Paisley thinks things can’t get any more tangled, she discovers that Hudson Owens—the charming playboy who once rescued her from a flat tire—is stepping in as the interim boss of her department.
With her ex flaunting his new romance and Hudson still sporting grease stains from their roadside encounter, Paisley contemplates quitting. But Hudson charms her into staying, helping her devise the perfect revenge pretend to date him instead.
As their playful ruse unfolds, Paisley soon realizes she’s falling for Hudson’s charm. He seems to genuinely care for her, but she doesn’t know if she can trust him. Is the playboy hanging up his hat once and for all, or will she become the latest in a string of broken hearts?
After a devastating breakup with her cheating co-worker, Paisley McConkie is determined to steer clear of her ex and his new girlfriend at all costs. But fate has other plans, thrusting them together on an unavoidable work project. Just when Paisley thinks things can’t get any more tangled, she discovers that Hudson Owens—the charming playboy who once rescued her from a flat tire—is stepping in as the interim boss of her department.
With her ex flaunting his new romance and Hudson still sporting grease stains from their roadside encounter, Paisley contemplates quitting. But Hudson charms her into staying, helping her devise the perfect revenge pretend to date him instead.
As their playful ruse unfolds, Paisley soon realizes she’s falling for Hudson’s charm. He seems to genuinely care for her, but she doesn’t know if she can trust him. Is the playboy hanging up his hat once and for all, or will she become the latest in a string of broken hearts?
117 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2025
52 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
February 17, 2025
"...I'm developing a crush on my boss. No biggie.'
Workplace romance. You've got to love it (at least in the fiction world).
I loved the forced proximity, I loved the main characters, I loved the inside jokes, I loved the romance (totally swoon worthy as Kasey always delivers on), and I loved everything about this book.
It's fun, heartfelt, spunky, romantic and an incredible novella!
If you're looking for a quick pick me up, grab this one-you'll love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Workplace romance. You've got to love it (at least in the fiction world).
I loved the forced proximity, I loved the main characters, I loved the inside jokes, I loved the romance (totally swoon worthy as Kasey always delivers on), and I loved everything about this book.
It's fun, heartfelt, spunky, romantic and an incredible novella!
If you're looking for a quick pick me up, grab this one-you'll love it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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January 27, 2025This was a cute workplace romance novella with some very endearing moments!
Paisley’s a gifted writer trying to avoid making the cut list of a failing newspaper… while also trying to avoid her ex-boyfriend (who cheated on her) working in her office. Paisley, my girl, I do not envy you—that would be torture.
Hudson is a sweetheart, albeit a bit misunderstood from Paisley’s perspective. He falls first and is pretty adorable about it. Would I have loved his POV? Yes. But this was a novella so there wasn’t time for it, haha.
My favourite part of the story was the theme about everyone having a story if we just take the time to listen. 💛
Regardless, if you love sweet & confident guys, fun sibling banter, and good friendships, this is a fun read!
Content: a few scenes at a bar; a guy tries hitting on a woman at the bar and is rebuffed; mentions of Tinder dates; mention of a man going through women fast (later this is revealed to not be true)
Paisley’s a gifted writer trying to avoid making the cut list of a failing newspaper… while also trying to avoid her ex-boyfriend (who cheated on her) working in her office. Paisley, my girl, I do not envy you—that would be torture.
Hudson is a sweetheart, albeit a bit misunderstood from Paisley’s perspective. He falls first and is pretty adorable about it. Would I have loved his POV? Yes. But this was a novella so there wasn’t time for it, haha.
My favourite part of the story was the theme about everyone having a story if we just take the time to listen. 💛
Regardless, if you love sweet & confident guys, fun sibling banter, and good friendships, this is a fun read!
Content: a few scenes at a bar; a guy tries hitting on a woman at the bar and is rebuffed; mentions of Tinder dates; mention of a man going through women fast (later this is revealed to not be true)
January 26, 2025
I think it’s an underwritten rule of if you love the job, you have don’t get involved with anyone at work. That’s not exactly how this novella went down…
Paisley is an ordinary girl at the start of this story, complete with getting a flat tire in the worst possible place, an offramp. Her hero is her boss’ boss and she couldn’t be anymore flustered if she tried. Once at work, she finds out that he is now the interim boss of their publication, and he will be having individual meetings to talk out thoughts of how to bolster their numbers. Yay! Oh, and her ex, who still works for the publication is officially back in the office and just as pushy as ever!
Hudson wasn’t planning on offering his assistance to the seemingly helpless woman with her flat tire only to have the lug wrench thrown at him, but he did. Oddly enough he recognized her as one of the underlings in the company. Now he has been charged with the duty of talking to her about how to make her column more appealing. He takes a close interest in Paisley’s work and offers to help as needed.
I think the biggest takeaway from this novella is that everyone has a story to tell, if you only take the time to listen! I think that’s true on so many fronts! I loved seeing the ease that Paisley and Hudson worked with each other despite their initial start. I also loved that she didn’t allow her ex to control or manipulate her as it seems like that happens sometimes in stories. It was nice to go to Tennessee for the day! Hope to visit some of the sites that were referenced! Great job Kasey!
Paisley is an ordinary girl at the start of this story, complete with getting a flat tire in the worst possible place, an offramp. Her hero is her boss’ boss and she couldn’t be anymore flustered if she tried. Once at work, she finds out that he is now the interim boss of their publication, and he will be having individual meetings to talk out thoughts of how to bolster their numbers. Yay! Oh, and her ex, who still works for the publication is officially back in the office and just as pushy as ever!
Hudson wasn’t planning on offering his assistance to the seemingly helpless woman with her flat tire only to have the lug wrench thrown at him, but he did. Oddly enough he recognized her as one of the underlings in the company. Now he has been charged with the duty of talking to her about how to make her column more appealing. He takes a close interest in Paisley’s work and offers to help as needed.
I think the biggest takeaway from this novella is that everyone has a story to tell, if you only take the time to listen! I think that’s true on so many fronts! I loved seeing the ease that Paisley and Hudson worked with each other despite their initial start. I also loved that she didn’t allow her ex to control or manipulate her as it seems like that happens sometimes in stories. It was nice to go to Tennessee for the day! Hope to visit some of the sites that were referenced! Great job Kasey!
May 5, 2025
If Kasey writes it, I’m going to read it. I don’t know how she does it, but she grabs my interest right from the start and before I know it I’m halfway through the book. Those are the kind of books you want to read. This one is no different.
Paisley is a writer for a struggling newspaper. She has dreams and aspirations. With the help of Hudson, her new editor she carves a niche for herself in the column writing world.
Then she starts to feel and hear rumblings about the paper. Is her job in jeopardy? Having been cheated on before she’s having a hard time trusting men. How will this affect her growing relationship with her boss? Is this a dealbreaker or a problem that can be overcome?
I really enjoyed this book. It’s sweet and clean. The characters are likable and you become quickly invested in their outcome. I can’t help but recommend it.
Paisley is a writer for a struggling newspaper. She has dreams and aspirations. With the help of Hudson, her new editor she carves a niche for herself in the column writing world.
Then she starts to feel and hear rumblings about the paper. Is her job in jeopardy? Having been cheated on before she’s having a hard time trusting men. How will this affect her growing relationship with her boss? Is this a dealbreaker or a problem that can be overcome?
I really enjoyed this book. It’s sweet and clean. The characters are likable and you become quickly invested in their outcome. I can’t help but recommend it.
March 3, 2025
This was SO cute and swoony and I devoured it in one day. It’s short, but was fulfilling and packed full of delicious chemistry between such lovable characters. It was exactly what I was looking for to read today and I loved it. I absolutely love Kasey’s writing and the newspaper business was a fun one to dive into through this story.
🔥: Kissing
🔥: Kissing
February 16, 2025
This was such a sweet office romance with a unique take on a boss/employee relationship. I loved the back and forth with brainstorming for the stories for the paper and how even in such a short story there could be a believable dark moment and the perfect ending!
September 7, 2025
This is a cute novella. The ending felt rushed and the HR violations were quite atrocious (quid pro quo much?), but the writing was engaging and entertaining. Actually, I would have given 5 stars up until the 80% mark, but the last 20% was so ridiculous (her anger unfounded and absurd) that I have to dock a full star for it.
Content:
There’s no foul language, sex, or violence. The romance is limited to kisses with little description. There is no mention of faith or God.
Content:
There’s no foul language, sex, or violence. The romance is limited to kisses with little description. There is no mention of faith or God.
September 13, 2025
This was a short story that finally moved at a really good pace for me!
April 3, 2025
I enjoyed it, but the synopsis and the actually story did not align.
Content:
-Kiss only
-No swear words
Content:
-Kiss only
-No swear words
February 24, 2025
This book was a fun and flirty fake-dating romance with a touch of workplace drama! Here’s what made it unforgettable:
❤️🔥 The Chemistry – Paisley and Hudson's first awkward encounter (grease stains and all!) quickly evolved into something much more as their fake relationship progressed. The way their connection deepened felt natural and earned.
💙 Hudson’s Charm & Playfulness – Hudson, despite his "playboy" reputation, was surprisingly charming and genuine. His willingness to help Paisley with her revenge scheme and his obvious care for her were endearing
😂 The Revenge Plot & Workplace Drama – The revenge plot, while a central element, didn't overshadow the romance. It was a fun catalyst for Paisley and Hudson's interactions and added a layer of humor to the story.
💔 Paisley’s Vulnerability & Growth – Paisley's past heartbreak made her hesitant to trust Hudson, which felt realistic. Her journey of overcoming her insecurities and learning to open her heart again was well-written and relatable.
💕 The Swoon Scale 💕
To understand my book rating system, please see my pinned post (https://shorturl.at/Y9vqs).
📖 Swoon-Worthy Sparks ✨ (5/5)
💬 The Dialogue 🎭 (4.8/5)
🦋 Butterfly Effect 💓 (4.8/5)
📖 Re-Readability 🔁 (5/5)
🎉 Final Verdict: If you love fake dating tropes, charming heroes, witty banter, and workplace romances this is a must-read!
❤️🔥 The Chemistry – Paisley and Hudson's first awkward encounter (grease stains and all!) quickly evolved into something much more as their fake relationship progressed. The way their connection deepened felt natural and earned.
💙 Hudson’s Charm & Playfulness – Hudson, despite his "playboy" reputation, was surprisingly charming and genuine. His willingness to help Paisley with her revenge scheme and his obvious care for her were endearing
😂 The Revenge Plot & Workplace Drama – The revenge plot, while a central element, didn't overshadow the romance. It was a fun catalyst for Paisley and Hudson's interactions and added a layer of humor to the story.
💔 Paisley’s Vulnerability & Growth – Paisley's past heartbreak made her hesitant to trust Hudson, which felt realistic. Her journey of overcoming her insecurities and learning to open her heart again was well-written and relatable.
💕 The Swoon Scale 💕
To understand my book rating system, please see my pinned post (https://shorturl.at/Y9vqs).
📖 Swoon-Worthy Sparks ✨ (5/5)
💬 The Dialogue 🎭 (4.8/5)
🦋 Butterfly Effect 💓 (4.8/5)
📖 Re-Readability 🔁 (5/5)
🎉 Final Verdict: If you love fake dating tropes, charming heroes, witty banter, and workplace romances this is a must-read!
February 15, 2025
I love Kasey Stockton stories and Off the Record is no exception. This sweet novella is a super fun story and I genuinely enjoyed every second. As a quick-paced story, I was able to read Off the Record in one sitting. As far as relationships go, the pacing of Paisley and Hudson’s romantic relationship is very well done. The chemistry between the two begins from page one and smolders throughout the story. Things do get quite electric between them at times. Overall, I found the friendship that blossoms between the two very realistic, and when they take things to the next level it is very believable. The characters in this story are excellently crafted, as is to be expected with all Stockton stories. I felt for Paisley the whole time. I can relate to the fact that sometimes Life feels like a bully. No matter that you’re giving the very best you can, sometimes Life just comes at you like an MMA fighter. I also feel for her as she is forced to work in the same room as her cheating ex-boyfriend and his current girlfriend. That is never an easy situation to find oneself, but Paisley deals with it through witty internal monologues and a strong sense of self. I respect that about her character. Also, her internal monologues made me chuckle. Hudson is a great hero. He sees into the heart of situations, and zeroes in on Paisley and her awesomeness right away. Hudson is a sweetheart. He feels deeply and he always wants to do the right, best thing. Together, Hudson and Paisley make not just a sweet courting couple, but a great work couple as well. I equally enjoyed their professional relationship as much as their romantic relationship. My favorite aspect of this endearing novella though is the discussion on the importance of listening to others. Too often, the world only cares about the big-wigs: the Hollywood elite, the professional athletes, and the popular politicians. This means regular people like you and me are shuffled off to the side as if we don’t matter, as if our stories don’t matter. But this is patently untrue. As Paisley says, “Everyone has a story…if we sit and listen, we’ll learn something new.” I love that! We all need to be better listeners — who knows what we can learn?!
Off the Record is a super sweet, totally endearing, very memorable Contemporary Rom-Com that I highly recommend. If you’re a fan of quick-paced romances full of depth and heart, then this is definitely the story for you!
I received a copy of this eBook edition as a newsletter subscriber to Kasey Stockton. I am under no obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Off the Record is a super sweet, totally endearing, very memorable Contemporary Rom-Com that I highly recommend. If you’re a fan of quick-paced romances full of depth and heart, then this is definitely the story for you!
I received a copy of this eBook edition as a newsletter subscriber to Kasey Stockton. I am under no obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 6, 2025
mm this wasn't what I was expecting. To be fair, I'm not sure what I was expecting. I would say that this one was just fine but didn't feel like a super complete story which is always the risk with novellas.
Paisley has a run-in with an executive at her company, Hudson, when she's caught up trying to change a spare tire. He helps her out and she chalks it up to a bizarre encounter when she then finds out he's her interim boss and also somewhat responsible to deciding upcoming job cuts. Paisley is understandable stressed about how to prove her value to staying in the company while floundering for new writing ideas. All this amidst trying to avoid her photographer ex who cheated on her with another coworker.
If this seems like a lot for 117 pages, then I agree, it was a lot. And the pieces never came together for me. Initially I thought the main thread of this story would be the ex storyline and maybe Hudson being involved with a scheme on jealousy/proving Paisley had moved on yada yada. But this never really went anywhere.
It was also quickly 'hijacked' (for lack of a better word) by the Hudson being the new boss and deciding on which jobs stay plot. Which I actually didn't like at all. Since working in a pseudo corporate environment workplace relationships with superior/subordinates are incredibly trickly to pull off since I need to be convinced there isn't an imbalance of power to get on board. And in this case there was a definite imbalance since Hudson had such a big say in Paisley would remain employed or not. Aside from the general aversion that I have to this, it actually negatively impacted the progression on the romance. Paisley rightly sees Hudson as a person holding the keys to her livelihood, and she puts him in that box. His romantic overtures aren't seen as such to her because she sees him as her boss first and foremost. This meant for me that there wasn't actually a lot of investment in the romance.
Anyway those are my reasons why this is 3 stars.
Paisley has a run-in with an executive at her company, Hudson, when she's caught up trying to change a spare tire. He helps her out and she chalks it up to a bizarre encounter when she then finds out he's her interim boss and also somewhat responsible to deciding upcoming job cuts. Paisley is understandable stressed about how to prove her value to staying in the company while floundering for new writing ideas. All this amidst trying to avoid her photographer ex who cheated on her with another coworker.
If this seems like a lot for 117 pages, then I agree, it was a lot. And the pieces never came together for me. Initially I thought the main thread of this story would be the ex storyline and maybe Hudson being involved with a scheme on jealousy/proving Paisley had moved on yada yada. But this never really went anywhere.
It was also quickly 'hijacked' (for lack of a better word) by the Hudson being the new boss and deciding on which jobs stay plot. Which I actually didn't like at all. Since working in a pseudo corporate environment workplace relationships with superior/subordinates are incredibly trickly to pull off since I need to be convinced there isn't an imbalance of power to get on board. And in this case there was a definite imbalance since Hudson had such a big say in Paisley would remain employed or not. Aside from the general aversion that I have to this, it actually negatively impacted the progression on the romance. Paisley rightly sees Hudson as a person holding the keys to her livelihood, and she puts him in that box. His romantic overtures aren't seen as such to her because she sees him as her boss first and foremost. This meant for me that there wasn't actually a lot of investment in the romance.
Anyway those are my reasons why this is 3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2025
Everyone has a story. If we sit and listen, we’ll learn something new.”
-Off The Record, is a charming quick but enjoyable story with some depth! It’s a story filled completely with humor, banter, real-life struggles, heartwarming moments, sparks of chemistry, and of course, swoony moments. The forced proximity, the setting, quirky office group, and the relatable characters give this story meaning. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Paisley and Hudson go from working together, to becoming friends, and to discovering and realizing that there is potential for something more, despite obstacles and misunderstandings. There’s room to grow and be better! This cute story is definitely worth the sweet read!🙌🏻📚😊
#offtherecord
#kaseystockton
#worththeread
#gogetyourselfthisamazingdeal
#allaboutthebestreads
-Content: cheating from past ex, bar scene.
“Trying to save it alone got me nowhere. We make a good team.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“I have a good feeling about us.”
-Off The Record, is a charming quick but enjoyable story with some depth! It’s a story filled completely with humor, banter, real-life struggles, heartwarming moments, sparks of chemistry, and of course, swoony moments. The forced proximity, the setting, quirky office group, and the relatable characters give this story meaning. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Paisley and Hudson go from working together, to becoming friends, and to discovering and realizing that there is potential for something more, despite obstacles and misunderstandings. There’s room to grow and be better! This cute story is definitely worth the sweet read!🙌🏻📚😊
#offtherecord
#kaseystockton
#worththeread
#gogetyourselfthisamazingdeal
#allaboutthebestreads
-Content: cheating from past ex, bar scene.
“Trying to save it alone got me nowhere. We make a good team.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“I have a good feeling about us.”
January 26, 2025
4.5
Sometimes a shorter book is just what you need in between some weightier stories. Some feel lacking or rushed, but this is not one of those. She made it feel like a full story where you're invested in the characters and the outcome. I'm hoping for another with these characters with some flashbacks to understand their 'why.'
Workplace romances aren't always my favorite, but I felt that this was handled well. After being burned by a previous co-worker, Paisley is not interested in getting close to the office 'player', no matter how handsome he is. But as they work together she starts to wonder if all of those rumors are just that- inflated stories. He is a gentleman and helps her gain traction in her writing, and even though she is feeling sparks- does not act on them.
"Everyone has a story. If we sit and listen, we’ll learn something new.”
This quote is my favorite theme of the book - all people of all backgrounds are worth getting to know, learning about, and writing about. They don't have to be rich and famous or important in the worlds eyes- just real.
Sometimes a shorter book is just what you need in between some weightier stories. Some feel lacking or rushed, but this is not one of those. She made it feel like a full story where you're invested in the characters and the outcome. I'm hoping for another with these characters with some flashbacks to understand their 'why.'
Workplace romances aren't always my favorite, but I felt that this was handled well. After being burned by a previous co-worker, Paisley is not interested in getting close to the office 'player', no matter how handsome he is. But as they work together she starts to wonder if all of those rumors are just that- inflated stories. He is a gentleman and helps her gain traction in her writing, and even though she is feeling sparks- does not act on them.
"Everyone has a story. If we sit and listen, we’ll learn something new.”
This quote is my favorite theme of the book - all people of all backgrounds are worth getting to know, learning about, and writing about. They don't have to be rich and famous or important in the worlds eyes- just real.
February 7, 2025
I could not put this one down! Sometimes novellas skimp on the details that really make a story 5 stars for me, but this one did not disappoint. Their relationship was well developed and had that slow burn I know and love from the author’s other books. I finished this one in one evening and just loved it so much! I would definitely recommend this one! And the best part is you can get it FREE by subscribing to her newsletter! But only for a couple more weeks then you will have to buy it but honestly it’s worth the buy! Paisley is a writer for a struggling newspaper but to make matters worse her cheating ex also works for the same paper. Going into work isn’t at the top of her favorites list at the moment but that all changes when she finds out her new interim boss who is in charge of making staffing cuts is the handsome Hudson Owens and he has made it his mission to help her avoid the chopping block. But with his history of serially dating his secretaries Paisley isn’t sure if he is just being his charming self or if he is after more than just helping her writing. You are definitely going to want to snag this one while you still can!
March 24, 2025
When it comes to love and payback, Paisley pens her own rules
Paisley is having an off week…first she gets a flat tire and none other Hudson, her boss comes to her rescue, her cheating ex is back and working in the office again with his new girlfriend, and she might lose her job. As Hudson helps her come up with a revenge plan to show that she is over her ex. As things progress Paisley realizes she may be falling for her boss.
I thought this was an enjoyable fast paced novella. I enjoyed how both characters, Paisley and Hudson are relatable. I enjoyed how their relationship progressed and they started becoming friends. I loved Paisley’s friendship with Simone.
This is book one in The Nashville Romantics series and a novella that can be read in one sitting. I honestly can’t wait to read the next story in the series…Paisley’s brother.
This was a new to me author. If you a looking for a quick clean read novella with some depth.
Paisley is having an off week…first she gets a flat tire and none other Hudson, her boss comes to her rescue, her cheating ex is back and working in the office again with his new girlfriend, and she might lose her job. As Hudson helps her come up with a revenge plan to show that she is over her ex. As things progress Paisley realizes she may be falling for her boss.
I thought this was an enjoyable fast paced novella. I enjoyed how both characters, Paisley and Hudson are relatable. I enjoyed how their relationship progressed and they started becoming friends. I loved Paisley’s friendship with Simone.
This is book one in The Nashville Romantics series and a novella that can be read in one sitting. I honestly can’t wait to read the next story in the series…Paisley’s brother.
This was a new to me author. If you a looking for a quick clean read novella with some depth.
February 27, 2025
This is a really cute quick novella. Paisley is a freelance writer for the Nashville Rhythm paper. On her way into work one morning she gets a flat tire and is having a terrible time trying to get the lug nuts off. When a handsome well dressed man stopped to help her. She realizes that he is her boss’s boss. The attraction is pretty immediate, but she has sworn off office relationships. She won’t go through that hurt again. I really like the character of Hudson, even though he seemed a little creepy. He did apologize for that later on. The sweet banter and connection they had trying to improve leadership to help sustain the paper was a nice topic. The ending seemed a bit rushed. I do wish there had been less finding ideas for stories and a little more bonding of their relationship. I still enjoyed the story and the happily ever after.
December 16, 2025
Off The Record by Kasey Stockton (5 stars)
This novella is a clean, sweet and straight-forward love story and it was lovely!
Workplace romances are not usually a trope I enjoy. I feel tension and worry about either the couple breaking the rules or one or the other of them getting fired. It’s just not worth the angst.
But this was different. It starts as the two of them working together on projects and is always friendly, but never crosses the line during work hours. It ends up as love, but I never had that uncomfortable feeling that they’d get caught because they didn’t do anything wrong. (The author even states the HR policy to help the main character {and this reader} aware of the rules and limitations.)
Instead, it was a sweet teaming up of talents and a case of two heads are better than one. A wonderful short story!
This novella is a clean, sweet and straight-forward love story and it was lovely!
Workplace romances are not usually a trope I enjoy. I feel tension and worry about either the couple breaking the rules or one or the other of them getting fired. It’s just not worth the angst.
But this was different. It starts as the two of them working together on projects and is always friendly, but never crosses the line during work hours. It ends up as love, but I never had that uncomfortable feeling that they’d get caught because they didn’t do anything wrong. (The author even states the HR policy to help the main character {and this reader} aware of the rules and limitations.)
Instead, it was a sweet teaming up of talents and a case of two heads are better than one. A wonderful short story!
February 14, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up to 5! I read this sweet novella in a 2 hour sitting with a pint of ben & jerry's and it was such a mood! It was the TBR intermission I was craving.
Kasey's writing packaged into a novella was just as smooth as I am used to from her. The pacing was perfect. Hudson and Paisley both had a coolness about them that I loved and made them feel super compatible. I've read workplace romances before but there was something about a literal office romance of which I want more. The overall premise and conflict worked for me.
In this book: office romance, secret pining, writer FMC, he's her boss, autumn in Nashville
Content Guide: clean for romance, language, and violence
No content warnings
Kasey's writing packaged into a novella was just as smooth as I am used to from her. The pacing was perfect. Hudson and Paisley both had a coolness about them that I loved and made them feel super compatible. I've read workplace romances before but there was something about a literal office romance of which I want more. The overall premise and conflict worked for me.
In this book: office romance, secret pining, writer FMC, he's her boss, autumn in Nashville
Content Guide: clean for romance, language, and violence
No content warnings
February 3, 2025
I am sometimes hesitant to read office romance, but this one was done perfectly!
Paisley loves working for the newspaper. So she is concerned when her boss’s boss, Hudson, steps in to the paper talking about cuts. She gets more confused when he starts encouraging her to find her voice. Can Paisley find her unique voice? What will happen when office politics and drama hit the fan?!
Highlights:
changing Paisley’s car tire
The elevator scenes
I love Paisley for being fairly self reliant and observant of people.
I love Hudson for his thoughtfulness and how he wants Paisley to shine.
“Everyone has a story. If we sit and listen, we’ll learn something new.”
Paisley loves working for the newspaper. So she is concerned when her boss’s boss, Hudson, steps in to the paper talking about cuts. She gets more confused when he starts encouraging her to find her voice. Can Paisley find her unique voice? What will happen when office politics and drama hit the fan?!
Highlights:
changing Paisley’s car tire
The elevator scenes
I love Paisley for being fairly self reliant and observant of people.
I love Hudson for his thoughtfulness and how he wants Paisley to shine.
“Everyone has a story. If we sit and listen, we’ll learn something new.”
March 16, 2025
A fun light read
This is a sweet office romance with just enough twists and turns to keep you completely involved. Paisley has been working at the newspaper for awhile with hopes of moving up to a sister publication with more prestige. But it hasn’t all been roses. She started dating a co-worker only to find him in the broom closet kissing another co-worker. Now her paper has been told that jobs maybe cut and a new editor has arrived, Hudson Owens. When Hudson starts taking special interest in her and her writing, things seem to be moving towards more than friendship. But when secrets are revealed, relationships may not survive.
This is a sweet office romance with just enough twists and turns to keep you completely involved. Paisley has been working at the newspaper for awhile with hopes of moving up to a sister publication with more prestige. But it hasn’t all been roses. She started dating a co-worker only to find him in the broom closet kissing another co-worker. Now her paper has been told that jobs maybe cut and a new editor has arrived, Hudson Owens. When Hudson starts taking special interest in her and her writing, things seem to be moving towards more than friendship. But when secrets are revealed, relationships may not survive.
March 12, 2025
The only thing wrong with Off the Record, is that I didn’t want it to end.
Off the Record is a perfect quick read. I’ve been loving shared POV lately, so I was surprised at how much I enjoyed having only one POV in this story. It somehow felt fresh? I enjoyed the suspense of not having Hudson’s take directly from him. Kasey Stockton is a fantastic author. A pet peeve of mine is when authors create a quick resolution to conflict, or rush the ending, and this felt just right. Well done.
Off the Record is a perfect quick read. I’ve been loving shared POV lately, so I was surprised at how much I enjoyed having only one POV in this story. It somehow felt fresh? I enjoyed the suspense of not having Hudson’s take directly from him. Kasey Stockton is a fantastic author. A pet peeve of mine is when authors create a quick resolution to conflict, or rush the ending, and this felt just right. Well done.
November 13, 2025
The summary blurb is somewhat misleading - there is an ex and a hunky boss and a project, but not the way it's described. The way the story actually plays out is good, though (and I like it better)! I wish there were a bit more character history about the MMC but this is a fairly short book and what we do get works well. Clean chemistry between the MCs and overall a fun read! I'm only bummed that this is the start of a new series so I have to wait until next year for book 2, lol. Guess that gives me time to work on the author's backlog!
December 19, 2025
For the record a fun novella
I'm not a huge fan of office romance, but this one was clean yet fun. I liked how Paisley could hold her ground, how she worked hard in her job, and how she was kind to everyone, including her ex, Leo. Hudson seems a bit reserved at first but warms up some as he and Paisley work together. His character could have been flushed out more, but it is a novella and not as much time for character development. I would have liked the epilogue to last a little longer but overall it was a fun story.
I'm not a huge fan of office romance, but this one was clean yet fun. I liked how Paisley could hold her ground, how she worked hard in her job, and how she was kind to everyone, including her ex, Leo. Hudson seems a bit reserved at first but warms up some as he and Paisley work together. His character could have been flushed out more, but it is a novella and not as much time for character development. I would have liked the epilogue to last a little longer but overall it was a fun story.
February 8, 2025
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
I love the believable characters and situations this author creates. This story is short, so we don't get a lot of background on anyone. Plus, the story is only from Paisley's point of view.
The main characters are charming, and so are some of the side characters.
The story is clean and predictable. I don't think predictable is a bad thing. The journey was fun and entertaining.
I love the believable characters and situations this author creates. This story is short, so we don't get a lot of background on anyone. Plus, the story is only from Paisley's point of view.
The main characters are charming, and so are some of the side characters.
The story is clean and predictable. I don't think predictable is a bad thing. The journey was fun and entertaining.
March 9, 2025
I liked Paisley and Hudson's story, and I was angry that her ex-boyfriend cheated on her when she found him and Kayla in the closet together. I can only imagine how it would feel to see them together as they all worked for the same paper. I loved that Hudson saw what happened and tried to get Paisley's mind off on her ex, but he fell in love with her. The paper was going through changes and firings in order to please his uncle.
January 21, 2025
Too short…the one thing I hate about novellas is that it sucks you in but it is just too short and I want to dive deeper into the story.
Loved Paisley and Hudson but I would have wanted to know more about each character and build them deeper and to let them have a slower sizzle romance. It just came and went too fast- though I realize it was a novella …I need more😆
Loved Paisley and Hudson but I would have wanted to know more about each character and build them deeper and to let them have a slower sizzle romance. It just came and went too fast- though I realize it was a novella …I need more😆
February 5, 2025
I enjoyed this short and simple novella. I don't read a lot of contemporary fiction since I typically like historical fiction more, but this was a nice little escape. I'm not familiar with the office work environment beyond what I have seen in movies or heard of from others. There were plenty of varied personalities in this story, as well as conflict and resolution. Again, a nice quick read.
February 22, 2025
My only complaint is we didn't get enough of these two, lol. This being a novella I still felt I got a good progression of the story and their budding romance. Nothing felt rushed and we still get the good chemistry, banter and dialogue from the author.
Great for: when you need a snack sized but satisfying read
office romance
Great for: when you need a snack sized but satisfying read
office romance
March 6, 2025
I enjoyed this novella! I loved how Hudson was not who Paisley was expecting. I loved how she stood up for herself and knew what she was worth.
Favorite Quote:
“Where are we heading?” He pulls onto the road and glances at me. “You’ll see.” “Am I at least dressed for it?” I take his casual clothes to mean I don’t need to be in professional attire, but still. Hudson’s eyes remain on the road. “You look perfect.” I scoff playfully. “You didn’t even look at me.” “I looked.” My stomach turns into molten lava right there.
Favorite Quote:
“Where are we heading?” He pulls onto the road and glances at me. “You’ll see.” “Am I at least dressed for it?” I take his casual clothes to mean I don’t need to be in professional attire, but still. Hudson’s eyes remain on the road. “You look perfect.” I scoff playfully. “You didn’t even look at me.” “I looked.” My stomach turns into molten lava right there.
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