Window Shopping

Newly released from prison after serving five years, Stella Pertino stands outside the Vivant department store in Manhattan, critiquing their underwhelming holiday window display. Her blunt honesty catches the ear of Aiden Trevor, the store's general manager, who ignores her criminal record and hires her to redesign the shop’s visual identity. While Stella struggles with the shame of her past and a lack of self-worth, Aiden remains relentlessly optimistic and physically captivated by her. The story follows their professional collaboration and immediate romantic tension as Stella attempts to reintegrate into a society that remains suspicious of her history.

This book serves readers who enjoy the grumpy-meets-sunshine trope with a reversal of traditional gender roles, featuring a cheerful male lead and a guarded female lead. Those interested in the technical aspects of visual merchandising and fashion retail will find the workplace setting detailed and specific. Readers finish the story with a perspective on the difficulties of life after incarceration and the possibility of professional reclamation through creative talent and personal accountability.