Opposites attract, forced proximity, and a billionaire boss romance—what more could a romance reader ask for? How about laugh out loud banter! Uncharted Territory by Zoey Ford delivers all that and more, blending grumpy x sunshine energy, witty banter, and sizzling chemistry against the unexpected backdrop of the great outdoors.
If you love enemies-to-lovers, workplace tension, and a plus-size heroine who refuses to shrink herself for anyone, this debut novel is one you won’t want to miss.
I finished this book in one day! It had me laughing out loud at the banter while swooning over the slow-burn tension.
Summary (spoiler free)
For the past eleven months, Emma has been stuck working for Garrett North, the grumpy CEO of a national outdoor recreation brand. To say they don’t get along is an understatement—they make workplace hostility an art form! But with only a month left before she can finally resign and cash in her hiring bonus (take that student loans!), she’s determined to grin and bear it.
Garrett, however, has other plans. He decides to personally scout new wilderness excursions for his company, and naturally, he’s dragging his reluctant assistant along for the ride.
The problem?
-She has zero interest in hiking, camping, or anything outdoorsy.
-He is far too comfortable making her life miserable.
-The tension between them is becoming unbearable—but not in the way either of them expected.
As they clash in the wild, the lines between frustration and desire blur. One minute, they’re arguing—the next, they’re kissing. Suddenly, it’s not just about surviving the trip—it’s about navigating feelings neither of them are prepared to admit to.
Will she make it through this “work trip” unscathed, or is her heart in more danger than she thought?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you love sharp, quick-witted dialogue, this book is for you. The workplace tension is pure gold, and the back-and-forth banter is so good! Even better? The miscommunication that fueled their initial animosity happened eleven months ago—so we get to enjoy the resolution without frustrating misunderstandings dragging the story down.
Forced Proximity That Feels Fresh
Enemies forced to spend days together in the wilderness? Yes, please! The contrast between their personalities—Garrett’s rugged, outdoorsy seriousness and his assistant’s hilarious, city-girl resistance—makes for an entertaining, tension-filled dynamic.
Plus-Size Representation Done Right
One of the highlights of this book is its refreshingly honest portrayal of being plus-size in the world of recreational sports. From clothing struggles to subtle (and not-so-subtle) judgments, Uncharted Territory doesn’t shy away from the realities that many plus-size women face. It’s handled with care, authenticity, and a touch of humor, making it both relatable and empowering.
A Grumpy Hero Who Softens
Garrett is your classic grumpy, broody billionaire, but what makes him stand out is how realistic his development feels. He’s not just a jerk for the sake of it—he has depth, layers, and real reasons behind his behavior. Watching his walls come down bit by bit was one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
Zoey Ford’s debut novel is fast-paced, engaging, and impossible to put down. The writing is sharp and witty, the story unfolds seamlessly, and the chemistry between the characters leaps off the page.
Uncharted Territory is a fun, flirty, and refreshing romance that delivers everything you love about enemies-to-lovers tropes, but with a unique, outdoorsy twist. Whether you’re in it for the snarky banter, the slow-burn romance, or the satisfying character growth, this book won’t disappoint.
If you love:
Grumpy x Sunshine
Forced Proximity & Workplace Romance
A Plus-Size Heroine Who Owns Her Confidence
Laugh-Out-Loud Humor with Plenty of Sizzle
Then Uncharted Territory is for you!
Where to Get It: Available on Kindle and Kindle Unlimited 2/14/25
Have you read Uncharted Territory? What did you think? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
