Downloading A Heart in Battle: A Sapphic Workplace Romance

In the depths of winter in Vancouver, two sustainable architecture firms compete for the most ambitious urban project of the decade: transforming an industrial district into a world-class eco-friendly neighborhood. Hilary Sinclair, creative director at Sinclair & Co., is brilliant, disciplined, and known for her absolute control both inside and outside the office. After a past romantic betrayal, she keeps her personal life under lock and key. For her, this project is an opportunity to make a name for herself without relying on her family legacy.

Maren Voss, chief operating officer at Arcadia Skyrise, is impulsive, charismatic, and an expert in crisis management. Her talent is as great as her reputation as a “heartbreaker.” Four years ago, she had a relationship with Benson Sinclair, Hilary’s older brother. The breakup was dramatic, and for the Sinclair family, Maren has become synonymous with conflict and boundaries that must not be crossed. But when both companies enter the final phase of the competition, Hilary and Maren are forced to spend time together, and what begins as professional hostility soon reveals something far more dangerous: an emotional tension neither of them can ignore.

The attraction grows unbidden, and just when they believe they have it under control, the line they promised not to cross becomes impossible to hold. From that moment on, Hilary and Maren must decide whether what they feel is merely a momentary release from the pressure threatening both their careers and their emotional stability—or the beginning of something strong enough to survive scrutiny, rivalry, and the ghosts of the past.