Readers of "Dirty Headlines" by L.J. Shen describe it as a captivating enemies-to-lovers, sexy office romance novel with a touch of humor and quirkiness. The story revolves around Judith, who meets Celian for a one-night stand only to later discover he is her new boss and engaged to someone else. Despite the initial complications, their explosive night sets the stage for a rollercoaster of events filled with drama, angst, and unexpected twists. Shen's writing style is praised for its ability to create complex characters like Celian, who evolves from a charming jerk to a redeemable and irresistible lead, and Judith, a quirky and relatable heroine who navigates the challenges of their unconventional relationship.

Characters:

The characters are complex, with Celian embodying the classic alpha trope, while Jude showcases a mix of quirkiness and strength.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is engaging and witty, allowing readers to remain captivated by the characters and their dynamics.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative is characterized by drama and romantic entanglements arising from a one-night stand that complicates workplace relationships.

Setting:

Set in a newsroom in New York City, the location provides a vibrant backdrop for the unfolding romantic drama.

Pacing:

Pacing can be uneven, starting slow before building momentum, particularly in character development moments.

I had put on a white pencil dress and my black Chucks. Classy. Understated. Plus, I was going for serious and professional today. My dark blond hair was styled in a loose chignon, and I’d streaked my ...

Notes:

The book features an office romance between the main characters, Celian and Jude.

Jude is a quirky character who struggles with self-acceptance and job searching.

Celian is portrayed as a charming but flawed 'alphahole' character.

The storyline involves themes of one-night stands, workplace dynamics, and enemies to lovers.

Readers have a mix of opinions about the characters' chemistry, with some finding it lacking.

The writing style of L.J. Shen is acknowledged for its flow and engagement.

Humor is a significant element in the book, particularly through character interactions.

The plot includes elements of angst and drama, typical of L.J. Shen's style.

Jude's character features a fondness for colorful Chuck Taylor sneakers, which is not universally liked by readers.

There's a significant amount of steamy content, making it a spicy read.

The book explores redemption and healing through the characters' relationship.

L.J. Shen's ability to create relatable antagonists draws readers in and keeps them engaged throughout the story.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for Dirty Headlines include themes of cheating, emotional manipulation, and controlling behavior.

Has Romance?

Yes, the book is heavily centered on romance as it explores the relationship between the main characters, Celian and Jude.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

From bestselling author L.J. Shen, comes a new standalone , enemies-to-lovers romance.

Célian Laurent.

Manhattan royalty.

Notorious playboy.

Heir to a media empire.

...And my new boss.

I could have impressed him, if not for last month's unforgettable one-night stand.

I left it with more than orgasms and a pleasant memory-namely, his wallet.

Now he's staring me down like I'm the dirt under his Italian loafers, and I'm supposed to take it.

But the thing about being Judith "Jude" Humphry is I have nothing to lose.

Brooklyn girl.

Infamously quirky.

Heir to a stack of medical bills and a tattered couch.

When he looks at me from across the room, I see the glint in his eyes, and that makes us rivals.

He knows it.

So do I.

Every day in the newsroom is a battle.

Every night in his bed, war.

But it's my heart at stake, and I fear I'll be raising the white flag. more

Ratings (8)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (2)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (26):

Read It (10)
Want To Read (11)
Not Interested (5)

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Dirty Headlines

L.J. Shen