Business Casual

by B.K. Borison • 2024 • 384 pages

4.11

32.9K ratings

Romance Contemporary Contemporary Romance

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Plot Summary

Twinkling Lights and Wedding Vows

A wedding under glowing lights

Nova Porter stands amidst the enchanting ambiance of a tree farm, witnessing the joyous union of Luka and Stella. The wedding is a celebration of love, yet Nova remains detached, preferring her solitude over romantic entanglements. Her sister Harper questions her disinterest in relationships, but Nova is content with her independence, focusing on her tattoo studio and the challenges of opening a new location in her hometown. The wedding serves as a backdrop for Nova's introspection about love and her place in the world.

Nova's Solitude and Sibling Bonds

Nova's independence and family ties

Nova reflects on her life choices, cherishing her solitude and the freedom it brings. Her siblings, particularly Harper and Beckett, express concern over her isolation, but Nova reassures them of her contentment. Despite her independence, Nova values her family, especially Beckett, who has always supported her dreams. The chapter delves into Nova's internal struggle between her desire for independence and the pressure to conform to societal expectations of romance and companionship.

Charlie's Unexpected Invitation

Charlie joins the family dinner

Charlie Milford, a charming and charismatic figure, is invited to the Porter family dinner. Despite his usual role as the life of the party, he finds himself introspective, questioning his place in the world and his relationship with Nova. The dinner is lively, filled with laughter and familial bonds, but Charlie feels like an outsider. He grapples with his feelings for Nova, unsure of where he stands in her life and what he truly wants for himself.

Business Visits and Unspoken Tensions

Navigating business and personal boundaries

Nova and Charlie embark on business visits for the upcoming harvest festival, but the tension between them is palpable. Their interactions are marked by unspoken feelings and unresolved issues from their past encounter. Nova struggles with her emotions, torn between her attraction to Charlie and her desire to maintain boundaries. Charlie, on the other hand, is careful not to overstep, respecting Nova's space while grappling with his own feelings of inadequacy and longing.

Confessions and Unraveling Hearts

Honest conversations and emotional revelations

Nova and Charlie finally confront their feelings, leading to a night of passionate revelations. They share their vulnerabilities, fears, and desires, unraveling the emotional barriers they've built around themselves. The chapter explores the complexity of their relationship, highlighting the push and pull between their need for independence and their undeniable connection. It's a turning point for both characters, as they begin to understand the depth of their feelings for each other.

A Night of Passionate Revelations

Intimacy and emotional connection

Nova and Charlie's night together is filled with passion and emotional intimacy. They explore each other's bodies and minds, breaking down the walls they've built. The experience is transformative, leaving both characters questioning their previous beliefs about love and relationships. The chapter delves into the intricacies of their connection, highlighting the vulnerability and trust required to truly open up to another person.

Morning After and Lingering Thoughts

Reflections and unresolved feelings

The morning after their passionate night, Nova and Charlie are left with lingering thoughts and unresolved feelings. Nova grapples with her emotions, unsure of what the future holds for their relationship. Charlie, too, is left questioning his place in Nova's life and what he truly wants. The chapter ends with both characters at a crossroads, contemplating the next steps in their journey together and individually.

Confrontations and Unspoken Desires

Tensions rise and feelings surface

Nova and Charlie navigate a day filled with unspoken desires and misunderstandings. As they visit a greenhouse, Nova struggles with her emotions, feeling a mix of frustration and longing for Charlie. Their interactions are charged with tension, and Nova's internal conflict becomes evident when she questions Charlie's actions. The chapter highlights the complexity of their relationship, as both characters grapple with their feelings and the boundaries they've set for themselves.

Revelations and Emotional Clarity

Honesty leads to deeper understanding

Nova and Charlie finally confront their feelings in a secluded alley, leading to a passionate exchange. Charlie admits his struggle to maintain composure around Nova, revealing his deep-seated feelings for her. Nova, in turn, acknowledges her own desires, leading to a moment of vulnerability and connection. This chapter marks a turning point in their relationship, as they both begin to understand the depth of their emotions and the impact they have on each other.

Unexpected Proposals and New Beginnings

A surprise proposal and new plans

Charlie and Nova's relationship takes a significant step forward when Charlie proposes a more permanent arrangement. Nova is taken aback by the proposal but realizes her own feelings align with Charlie's desires. The chapter explores the theme of commitment and the willingness to embrace change for the sake of love. It sets the stage for a new beginning, as both characters contemplate a future together.

Long-Distance Challenges and Realizations

Distance tests their relationship

As Charlie returns to New York, the couple faces the challenges of a long-distance relationship. Their communication becomes sporadic, leading to feelings of frustration and longing. Nova reflects on her feelings for Charlie, realizing that her initial reluctance to commit was rooted in fear. The chapter delves into the complexities of maintaining a relationship across distances and the importance of open communication.

Grand Gestures and Heartfelt Confessions

Love conquers fear and doubt

Nova decides to make a grand gesture by traveling to New York to confess her love for Charlie. Her arrival surprises Charlie, who is overwhelmed by her presence. The chapter explores the theme of love as a driving force that overcomes fear and doubt. Nova's confession solidifies their relationship, as both characters embrace their feelings and commit to a future together.

Characters

Nova Porter

Independent and introspective artist

Nova is a fiercely independent tattoo artist, content with her solitude and focused on her career. She values her freedom and is wary of romantic entanglements, preferring casual relationships to avoid emotional vulnerability. Despite her independence, Nova is deeply connected to her family, particularly her brother Beckett, who has always supported her dreams. Throughout the story, Nova grapples with her feelings for Charlie, torn between her desire for independence and the undeniable connection she feels with him.

Charlie Milford

Charming and introspective outsider

Charlie is a charismatic and charming figure, often seen as the life of the party. Despite his outward confidence, he struggles with feelings of inadequacy and a longing for belonging. He is drawn to Nova, captivated by her independence and strength, but is unsure of his place in her life. Charlie's journey is one of self-discovery, as he navigates his feelings for Nova and questions his own desires and aspirations.

Beckett Porter

Supportive and protective brother

Beckett is Nova's older brother, a steadfast and supportive figure in her life. He has always believed in Nova's dreams, often putting her needs before his own. Beckett is protective of his family, particularly Nova, and is concerned about her well-being. His relationship with Nova is one of mutual respect and love, though he struggles with her reluctance to let him see her new studio, fearing he might be disappointed.

Harper Porter

Romantic and caring sister

Harper is Nova's sister, a romantic at heart who often encourages Nova to open herself up to love. She is caring and supportive, though sometimes overbearing in her concern for Nova's happiness. Harper's relationship with Nova is one of sisterly love and occasional tension, as she pushes Nova to consider the possibility of romance and companionship.

Vanessa Porter

Free-spirited and emotional sister

Vanessa is Nova's younger sister, a free-spirited and emotional character who often acts on impulse. She is supportive of Nova but struggles with her own issues, particularly in her career as a dancer. Vanessa's relationship with Nova is one of mutual support and understanding, though she often relies on Nova for guidance and reassurance.

Lucy Porter

Loving and nurturing mother

Lucy is the matriarch of the Porter family, a loving and nurturing figure who cares deeply for her children. She is supportive of Nova's career and encourages her to pursue her dreams. Lucy's relationship with Nova is one of unconditional love and support, though she occasionally worries about Nova's independence and reluctance to open herself up to love.

Brian Milford

Controlling and manipulative father

Brian is Charlie's father, a controlling and manipulative figure who often undermines Charlie's confidence. He is more concerned with his own reputation and success than his son's well-being, causing tension and conflict in their relationship. Brian's presence in Charlie's life is a source of stress and frustration, as Charlie struggles to assert his independence and break free from his father's influence.

Plot Devices

Wedding as a Catalyst

Symbol of love and introspection

The wedding serves as a catalyst for Nova's introspection about love and relationships. It highlights the contrast between her contentment with solitude and the societal expectations of romance. The wedding is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for Nova's internal conflict and her evolving feelings for Charlie.

Business Visits

Opportunity for connection and tension

The business visits provide an opportunity for Nova and Charlie to connect and confront their feelings. The visits are marked by unspoken tensions and unresolved issues, serving as a backdrop for their evolving relationship. The visits highlight the push and pull between their desire for independence and their undeniable connection.

Emotional Vulnerability

Key to character development

Emotional vulnerability is a central theme in the story, driving the character development of both Nova and Charlie. Their willingness to open up and share their fears and desires is a turning point in their relationship, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. The theme of vulnerability underscores the complexity of their connection and the challenges they face in navigating their feelings.

Long-Distance Relationship

Test of love and commitment

The long-distance relationship between Nova and Charlie serves as a test of their love and commitment. It highlights the challenges of maintaining a connection across distances and the importance of communication and trust. The distance forces both characters to confront their feelings and make decisions about their future together.

Family Support

Foundation for personal growth

The support of Nova's family plays a crucial role in her personal growth and her relationship with Charlie. Their acceptance and understanding provide a foundation for Nova to explore her feelings and embrace vulnerability. The theme of family support emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system in navigating life's challenges.

Analysis

Exploration of love and independence

"Business Casual" by B.K. Borison delves into the complexities of love, independence, and vulnerability. Through the journey of Nova and Charlie, the story explores the tension between the desire for personal freedom and the longing for connection. The narrative highlights the importance of emotional vulnerability as a pathway to deeper relationships and self-discovery. The book also emphasizes the role of family support in personal growth and the challenges of maintaining love across distances. Ultimately, it conveys the message that love requires courage, openness, and the willingness to embrace change for the sake of a shared future.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Business Casual about?

A journey of self-discovery : Business Casual follows Nova Porter, a fiercely independent tattoo artist, as she navigates her feelings for Charlie Milford, a charming and charismatic man who challenges her carefully constructed solitude.
Unexpected romance : The story explores the complexities of their relationship, as they grapple with their desires, fears, and the boundaries they've set for themselves, all while trying to balance their personal lives with their professional aspirations.
Community and belonging : Set against the backdrop of a small town and a Christmas tree farm, the novel delves into themes of community, family, and finding one's place in the world, as Nova and Charlie navigate their feelings and their place within their respective communities.

Why should I read Business Casual?

Compelling characters : Readers will be drawn to Nova and Charlie's complex personalities, their vulnerabilities, and their relatable struggles with love and independence.
Emotional depth : The story explores themes of emotional vulnerability, self-discovery, and the challenges of balancing personal desires with societal expectations, offering a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience.
Charming setting : The cozy and enchanting setting of a small town and a Christmas tree farm provides a delightful backdrop for the unfolding romance, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

What is the background of Business Casual?

Small-town charm : The story is set in the fictional town of Inglewild, a close-knit community with a strong sense of tradition and local businesses, creating a cozy and familiar atmosphere.
Christmas tree farm : The Lovelight Farms, a Christmas tree farm owned by Stella, serves as a central location, providing a backdrop for the characters' interactions and the unfolding romance.
Contemporary setting : The story takes place in a contemporary setting, with references to modern technology and social media, grounding the narrative in a relatable and familiar context.

What are the most memorable quotes in Business Casual?

"You can't marry a tattoo shop, you know." : This quote highlights the conflict between Nova's dedication to her career and her sister's desire for her to find love, a central theme in the story.
"You know how we got here. You've been flirting with me forever, Charlie. You're surprised I want to flirt back?": This quote marks a turning point in Nova and Charlie's relationship, as she acknowledges the underlying tension and attraction between them.
"I'm not laughing at you. I'm not making fun of you. I need you to be sure. I need to know that it's me you want and not a random roll in the sheets." : This quote reveals Charlie's vulnerability and his need for genuine connection, highlighting his desire for a meaningful relationship with Nova.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does B.K. Borison use?

Dual POV : The story is told from the alternating perspectives of Nova and Charlie, allowing readers to gain insight into their individual thoughts, feelings, and motivations, creating a more nuanced and complex understanding of their relationship.
Internal monologue : Borison uses internal monologues to reveal the characters' inner struggles, anxieties, and desires, providing a deeper understanding of their emotional complexities and motivations.
Dialogue-driven : The story relies heavily on dialogue to advance the plot and reveal character relationships, creating a fast-paced and engaging narrative that keeps readers invested in the characters' journeys.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The recurring mention of "the phone tree" : This seemingly minor detail highlights the close-knit nature of the town and how information spreads quickly, adding a layer of humor and realism to the setting.
Nova's collection of garden gnomes: These quirky items, often gifted by her mother, symbolize Nova's hidden softness and her connection to her family, contrasting with her tough exterior.
Charlie's meticulous planning: His color-coded spreadsheets and detailed lists reveal his need for control and order, highlighting his internal struggle with his chaotic emotions and his desire to be seen as competent.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

The mention of the "Douglas fir" : This seemingly throwaway line early in the book becomes significant later when Charlie almost crashes into one while dancing with Nova, foreshadowing their chaotic and passionate connection.
Charlie's comment about Nova's hair looking nice: This seemingly simple compliment is later referenced when Nova asks him why he's flirting with her, highlighting the subtle ways their relationship has been building.
The recurring image of the rose tattoo : The rose tattoo between Nova's breasts becomes a symbol of her vulnerability and her hidden desires, drawing Charlie's attention and foreshadowing their intimate connection.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Charlie and Beckett's friendship: Despite their different personalities, Charlie and Beckett share a deep bond, often acting as a sounding board for each other, highlighting the importance of male friendships in the story.
Selene and Nova's connection: Selene, Charlie's assistant, and Nova form an unexpected bond, sharing a similar sense of humor and a mutual understanding of Charlie's quirks, adding a layer of female camaraderie to the narrative.
Layla and Beckett's conflict: Their ongoing feud over Beckett's elopement reveals a deeper connection and a shared history, highlighting the complex dynamics within the Lovelight Farms community.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Layla : As the owner of the bakehouse, Layla is a central figure in the community, providing a space for connection and support, and her friendship with both Nova and Charlie adds depth to the story.
Beckett: As Nova's brother and Charlie's friend, Beckett plays a crucial role in both of their lives, offering support, guidance, and a sense of belonging, highlighting the importance of family and friendship.
Selene : As Charlie's assistant, Selene provides a unique perspective on his character, offering a mix of support and playful teasing, and her connection with Nova adds a layer of female camaraderie to the narrative.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Nova's fear of vulnerability: Nova's preference for casual relationships stems from a deep-seated fear of emotional vulnerability and the potential for heartbreak, driving her to maintain a carefully constructed sense of independence.
Charlie's need for validation: Charlie's constant need to be the life of the party and his desire to please others stem from a deep-seated need for validation and a fear of not being good enough, driving him to seek approval from those around him.
Beckett's protective nature: Beckett's overprotective behavior towards Nova stems from a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to shield her from harm, highlighting his unwavering love and support for his sister.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Nova's internal conflict: Nova struggles with an internal conflict between her desire for independence and her growing feelings for Charlie, highlighting the challenges of reconciling her personal beliefs with her emotional needs.
Charlie's self-doubt: Despite his outward confidence, Charlie grapples with self-doubt and a fear of not being good enough, driving him to seek validation from others and question his own worth.
Beckett's emotional repression: Beckett struggles to express his emotions, often resorting to sarcasm and gruffness to mask his true feelings, highlighting the challenges of vulnerability and emotional expression.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Nova's confession on the dance floor: Nova's impulsive invitation to Charlie to come home with her marks a major emotional turning point, as she acknowledges her desires and takes a risk, challenging her carefully constructed boundaries.
Charlie's vulnerability in the trees: Charlie's admission that he needs Nova to ask him again to take her home reveals his vulnerability and his need for genuine connection, highlighting his desire for a meaningful relationship.
Nova's realization about her heart: When Vanessa says Nova has a "bubble-wrapped heart," Nova begins to question her own emotional barriers and the way she has been holding people at arm's length, leading to a shift in her perspective.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

From casual to committed : Nova and Charlie's relationship evolves from a casual encounter to a deep and meaningful connection, as they navigate their feelings and challenge their preconceived notions about love and relationships.
From guarded to vulnerable : Both Nova and Charlie learn to embrace vulnerability, sharing their fears and desires, and allowing themselves to be open and honest with each other, leading to a deeper level of intimacy and trust.
From independent to interdependent : Nova and Charlie's relationship evolves from a place of independence to one of interdependence, as they learn to rely on each other for support and understanding, highlighting the importance of balance in a healthy relationship.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The future of Charlie's career: While Charlie commits to a relationship with Nova, the story leaves his long-term career plans in New York somewhat open-ended, allowing readers to imagine his future path.
The extent of Nova's emotional growth: While Nova makes significant progress in embracing vulnerability, the story leaves some room for interpretation regarding the extent of her emotional growth and her ability to fully let go of her fears.
The long-term impact of their relationship : The story ends with Nova and Charlie together, but the long-term impact of their relationship on their individual lives and their respective communities remains open to interpretation, allowing readers to imagine their future together.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Business Casual?

Nova's initial rejection of Charlie: Nova's initial rejection of Charlie's advances, despite her own attraction to him, can be seen as both a display of her independence and a source of frustration for readers who want them to be together.
Charlie's insistence on Nova asking him again: Charlie's demand that Nova ask him again to take her home can be interpreted as both a sign of his need for validation and a power play, sparking debate about the dynamics of their relationship.
The "business casual" agreement : The couple's attempt to define their relationship as "business casual" can be seen as both a way to navigate their feelings and a form of denial, sparking debate about the nature of their connection and their willingness to commit.

Business Casual Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Nova and Charlie's commitment: The ending sees Nova and Charlie finally confessing their love for each other and committing to a relationship, signifying a major turning point in their journey.
Embracing vulnerability : The ending emphasizes the importance of emotional vulnerability, as both characters learn to let go of their fears and embrace the possibility of a lasting connection.
A future together : The ending leaves readers with a sense of hope and optimism, as Nova and Charlie embark on a new chapter in their lives, ready to face the challenges and joys of a shared future.