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Hickory Hills #2

Workin' On You

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A Small Town, Friends to Lovers Romance

Everyone has secrets.
Mine? I’ve loved Sylvie Forde since we were eight years old. Not that she has any idea.
Being stuck in the friend zone with her is better than nothing at all. Love from afar is all I’ve ever been able to muster up the courage for, even though I want so much more. I finally get my chance when Sylvie asks for my help.
Late nights, a surprise litter of kittens, and hushed confessions lead to kissing and a whole lot more. Everything I’ve ever wanted.
Only problem—there’s something else I’m keeping from Sylvie. Something big.
Secrets are hard to keep in our small Georgia town, yet I’ve managed to keep this one. If I want a future with the girl of my dreams, I have to come clean. And hope that I don’t lose her forever.

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 20, 2023

114 people are currently reading
408 people want to read

About the author

Claire Hastings

29 books829 followers
Claire Hastings is a walking, talking awkward moment. She loves Diet Coke, gummi bears, the beach, and books (obvs). When not reading she can usually be found hanging with friends at a soccer match or grabbing food (although she probably still has a book in her purse). She and her husband Drew live in Atlanta with their fur-child Denali.

She can be found here:

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Laurie.
1,557 reviews34 followers
August 3, 2023
When science teacher Sylvie Forde finds a cat about to give birth in the high school parking lot, she knows that her longtime friend, veterinarian Camden Tyler, is the perfect person to ask for help. She heads over to his office and, while waiting for the kittens to arrive, happens to mention that the robotics team she coaches is in need of another chaperone to travel to their first competition of the season. Camden jumps at the opportunity to accompany Sylvie on the trip; he's had a crush on her for years but has always been too shy to say anything, and he hopes that spending time together will help her see him in a different light. The plan seems to be working as Sylvie and Camden grow closer, but she doesn't realize that he's keeping a secret from her: He's actually "Mr. T," the robotics program's secret benefactor, with whom she's been texting for months. She feels a real connection with Mr. T and has begun to share secrets with him that are unknown to even her two closest friends. When she finally learns the truth, will she be able to forgive Camden for not telling her sooner?

I adored the first book in this series, but this one was even better. Camden and Sylvie were ridiculously cute together! I loved the way he gradually overcame his shyness as they spent more time together, as well as the way he found a place in her friend group. He didn't seem to have many (or any?) other close friends, which made me sad because he was so kind, sweet, and loyal. Their flirty, witty banter was a ton of fun, as were their interactions with the kids on Sylvie's robotics team. I particularly enjoyed Joey, the boy with a crush on Sylvie, whose efforts to win her over consistently made me laugh.

I highly recommend "Workin' On You" for all contemporary/small town romance fans and can't wait to get my hands on the next book of the series.

*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Samantha Baca.
Author 58 books1,046 followers
November 23, 2023
Shy guy with a dirty mouth?! Sign me up!!

This small town, friends to lovers romance packed the heat as well as some laughter and swoony moments! I loved it!
Profile Image for Rachel Reads Romance.
408 reviews48 followers
April 1, 2025
f: Sylvie
m: Camden
(Dual POVs)

Camden is quite different from a lot of the other male MCs I’ve read. He’s shy, a bit hesitant, not very confident and not very experienced. Even though there were some areas where he lacked, he definitely made up for it with his golden retriever vibes. He’s pretty much been in love with Sylvie since grade school and has admired her from afar. He’s willing to do just about anything to provide her with the things that she needs or desires, even doing some things he doesn’t take credit for.

Camden works as a vet and I loved the inclusion of so many animals in this book. Winceston’s personality definitely added some spunk to the story and I was all for the cats’ punny names. Not to mention the adorableness of Camden talking directly to the animals he’s treating when they have issues.

I always appreciate friendship groups in books, but the guys group really won me over with this one. They’re non judgemental, they all openly admit to being clueless when it comes to relationships, and they all fully support and help one another when one of the couples is in turmoil.

At the end of the day, these two were cute together and I was happy for their HEA, but I just wasn’t able to personally connect to the characters as much as I would have liked. I do plan on continuing the series and I’m especially looking forward to Seein’ Red.

Favorite Quotes:
Today I found a cat. Who is having kittens. The universe just handed me my very own crazy cat lady starter kit. -Sylvie

“I don’t play with kittens. Pus–”
“Finish that sentence and so help me God, I’ll knock you so far into next week, you won’t remember your name,”
-Willa & Nash

“We are the last three to be giving advice. This one, I’m pretty sure is secretly leaving a trail of angry husbands throughout Knox County,” Dustin says, pointing to Nash, before moving over to Noel. “And this one… well, God only knows, because he refers to being interested in a member of the opposite sex as having his tractor cranked, so, Lord help us.” -Dustin
Profile Image for Lorna.
273 reviews15 followers
May 14, 2025
This is the second book by Claire Hastings and it definitely didn't disappoint. This story follows small town vet Camden and science teacher Sylvie.

These too have been friends their whole lives and Camden has loved Sylvie since he was 8 years old, Camden has always been shy and an introvert and has a stutter when he's nervous or anxious about something, but has a heart of gold and will do his best to always help Sylvie out so when Sylvie is leaving the school and finds a cat about to give birth she goes straight to Camden not knowing what is wrong with the cat. After they get chatting Sylvie says how one of the other chaperones has had to cancel leaving her without a male chaperone Camden jumps at the chance to help her out.

What starts out as friends definitely ends with a HEA and a great story of how the nerdy guy and the girl of his dreams get a love match like no other
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,497 reviews56 followers
July 19, 2023
Oh my sweet sweet Camden. I just want to pick him up, hug him and never let anything bad happen to him ever again. He carried the story from start to finish. I don't care he kept his secret where Sylvie is concerned. He loved her since he was a boy. I don't like her for him. I'm with Atma where she's concerned.

Sylvie.. I dont even know what to do with my feelings for her. He told her how long he had feelings for her and yet she didn't give herself completely to him, despite telling him she is all in. She took him for granted. If it's not showing, i didn't like her. In fact the whole reason this book is getting it's rating is solely for Camden's sake. That man can have all the stars!!!

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,128 reviews105 followers
July 18, 2023
A delicious escape read! Small town, friends to lovers, nerdy and shy characters, and so much more. Sylvie is sassy at times, but mostly we see her insecurities. As she grows throughout the story, so does her confidence. Camden is a candidate for a book boyfriend, as he overcomes his shyness.

There is a missed connection of attraction, a big secret, and a dirty-talking, sexy veterinarian you must meet.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Char (1RadReader59).
3,225 reviews19 followers
February 3, 2024
Sylvie Forde is a science teacher at Knox County High School in Hickory Hills, Georgia. She took over the robotics team five years ago. The school board wants to cut what little funding they are already getting. They have nothing to worry about now. This year, she doesn't have to rely on her sliver of money raised from the town’s annual, Rhythm and Brews Festival. She had a benefactor who had donated enough for five years.

Mrs. Chamberlain, the math teacher, and the elder woman has been a staple at, Knox County High School. She was Syl's math teacher when she attended more than a decade ago. She’s also the Chief Pot Stirrer along with her sidekick, Atma Burch for the Hickory Hills rumor mill. You must always stay on your toes with every body movement, every facial movement, who you associate with, and how you conduct yourself in public. They see fear you’re sunk for sure.

They want to know, as much as Syl herself does, ‘Who is Mr. T.’ She implies that she has to know him and he has wanted or she gave him something for him to give her class so much money. So, when a text came in from him she wanted her to read it out loud. Syl ignored her gathered her things, and told her she didn’t realize it was so late she needed to leave she had papers still to correct. However, the cat tucked behind her wheel had other plans and had it hiss at her.

Once wrangled she takes it to the vet. Camden was a good friend her whole life. Well, it turns out it's a she-cat she gets to name, Dolly Purrton. And she is getting ready to give birth to four kitties. Atma is filling in for, Stacy his normal receptionist, Atma has never liked, Syl and she doesn't know why. When Camden tells, Atma she can leave she is not happy. She looks, Syl over with disdain. Camden then tells Syl she doesn't have to stay, she can if she wants but it's not necessary.

She said, no she would like to. They order pizza and talk for hours. Where she is worrying herself because she is inching her way up in age, she works full time, helps the kids with robotics, and now has her very own crazy cat lady starter kit cats. While talking, Camden offered to take, Joe Bowden’s place since he had to bow out as the male chaperone. Syl was so excited she also invited him to, the Tuesday night workshop for the kids to work on, and tweak the robots.

And so, it begins the meet-cute of two longtime friends, who are finally connecting. Camden had known since second grade he loved, Syl. However, Syl didn't realize for sure, that there was something between them until, he sent up smoke signals. But, the anonymous donor, Mr. T was getting in their way. See if the texting with Mr. T was a factor in the two-week breakup they went through.

You see that, Sylvie has body issues due, to a college ex who compared her body to that of, Danny Devitos. So, when the friend group which consists of Kensie, Willa, Dustin, Nash, and, Noel tells her that, Camden is into her she says no way. Plus, Camden is such a nice guy who has always been so shy and that guy who has always been that friend who has always been there when needed. But, she acts like he committed murder but he didn't. She’s the one that emotionally invested in the text she kept sending him.

She was basically cheating on, Camden with, Mr. T. Although, when it comes to, Camden he was sweet but a little on the wimpy side for a man his age. He let, Atma get away with murder. Especially, regarding how she spoke to and about, Syl. It was good to see the guys rally around him and, not take sides. Also, seeing the girls giving, Syl tough love, and telling her she was being unreasonable. I happened to read Noel’s story first and that is still my favorite between the two of them.
Profile Image for Vanessa Gayle ⚔️ Fangirl Faction.
1,134 reviews853 followers
January 20, 2024
4.5/5 Stars

Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.

Claire Hastings packs quite a punch with this swoony and humorous friends-to-lovers story.

This author has such a great writing style. I always fall right into her stories. The writing is engaging and the plotting of the stories always keeps me glued to the book.

I really enjoyed these characters. It was easy to step into their shoes. Camden was such a total book boyfriend. I really felt for Sylvie and empathized with her self-esteem issues. All of the secondary characters were great. I loved that all of the characters had individual and distinct personalities.

I loved watching Sylvie and Camden's romance blossom. They have incredible chemistry that only shines more as time goes by. They have some hurdles to overcome in their relationship but their journey is so satisfying.

Overall, this was a sweet and swoony friends-to-lovers romance. The story was heartwarming and the plot kept me entertained. There are unique characters and excellent storytelling. I am so eager for the next release from this author!


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My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
Profile Image for Destany.
461 reviews18 followers
July 7, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book, provided by Foreward PR. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Oh gosh there's a million things I could say about this book, but the basic gist is I loved every single part of this book. Well, ok, so maybe I was caught off guard by the MMC's dirty mouth with as shy and backward as he was haha This book made me laugh so much, AND I physically swooned at their first kiss. I actually brought my hand up to my throat and sighed. So well done.

I believe Camden is now in my Book Boyfriend Hall of Fame. His love for Sylvie was deep and all-consuming - and something he kept to himself for decades. Well, I'm pretty sure the ONLY person who didn't know was Sylvie, but that's neither here nor there haha! He is there for Sylvie when she needs him most, but she doesn't even realize it. The side characters are all fun and interesting - and I can't wait to read more in this series!

Sylvie has very low self esteem, and I feel that, too. She couldn't grasp that Camden, her lifelong friend, actually wanted to be more than her friend. She took a lot of convincing, and Camden had to actually come out of his shell and tell her to make it happen. But she still wasn't convinced. Down a chaperone for a robotics team match, Camden volunteers his time for the kids, and for team coach Sylvie. But he's hiding an even bigger secret than his decades-long crush on Sylvie, and he worries that when she finds out, things will never be the same again.

The banter, the DETAILS, the *fans self* spice. Let me tell you this book got it right where height differences are concerned. THANK YOU CLAIRE HASTINGS. My husband is a foot taller than me, and there are just things that can't be done haha

I am so happy I read this book, and I'm excited for more in this series.
Profile Image for Kira.
744 reviews32 followers
September 8, 2023
Title: Workin’ On You (Hickory Hills Book 2)
Author: Claire Hastings
Hero/Heroine: Camden & Sylvie
Tropes: Childhood Best Friends to Lovers, Small Town, Virgin Hero, Secret Identity,

tw/cw: negative self image, offensive comments about weight, hero with a speech impediment, parental abandonment, mention of parent with alcoholism

✨the good ✨

I have a new fictional man for you lot to add to your lists. Camden bloody Tyler. Honestly, I just wanted to hide this man away so nothing or no one could hurt him. Having experienced a bit of a tragic childhood and dealing with comments about his stutter, he kept to himself mostly, fearful of putting himself out there. Also, what made him unbelievably hot was the fact that he was a vet, I didn’t know this was a thing I’d love, but it was just FYI.

I adore a friends to lovers story, and Workin’ On You was definitely one of the good ones. I loved that we got to experience the slow growth of Cam and Sylvie’s relationship, and seeing Cam slowly grow in confidence put a big smile on my face. If you couldn’t already tell, I really like his character.

A hot vet, a secret identity and an adorable dog and litter of kittens, Workin’ On You was a really great story and a great addition to the Hickory Hills series. Now I just want to know what Noel did.

✨ the bad ✨

Hattie Burch. Annoying isn’t the word.

Not bad as such, but I sometimes felt that Sylvia didn’t appreciate Cam (although this could be me being biased as I absolutely adored Cam’s character, I don’t know).

Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.

✨overall thoughts: a great continuation of the Hickory Hills series, really enjoyed this friends to lovers romance
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Jennifer.
936 reviews16 followers
January 7, 2024
So here is my very first thought, I LOVE that we get a FMC that is a high school science teacher, but also that she is also the sponsor for the high school robotics team. I mean come on, how cool is that. I learned SO much reading this book about all the ins and outs of this program and honestly it was the coolest. Plus, we get a team of students that is mixed and seeing how they all appreciate their teacher makes me so happy. Sylvie lands herself in a tough situation when the male parent chaperon that has been able to travel with the team to help with the boy is unable to go. When she tells her friend, Camden, about the situation he is more than happy to step up and help her out. Watching this man, who is not perfect in anyway and is known to say he prefers animals to humans explains just how shy he is. He has grown up with parents that were not the best example so by tagging along behind the small-town vet he finds his path in becoming the vet of Hickory Hills.

Here are my thoughts. I really loved both of these characters. Sylvie has been hurt in the past but has always appreciated her two best friends and three best guy friends as well as one special guy who she has always had a soft spot for. Camden has always been in the background, never feeling like he has ever fit in. Except for Sylvie who he has always had a crush on, knowing that she friend-zoned him when they were in high school. As these two spend more and more time together as Camden helps with the robotics team, he is finally able to show her that there is so much more to him than she ever truly saw. She finally opened her eyes and noticed him, and that moment was so sweet. This story is two nerdy kids from high school, finally feeling comfortable in their own skin to put themselves out there to showcase who they are now is who the other needs.
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,580 reviews51 followers
July 22, 2023
Oh, Workin' On You is an absolute gem that touched my heart in all the right ways! Once again, Claire delivers a beautiful story filled with spine-tingling swoons and a healthy dose of humour that we've all come to adore from her writing. And let me tell you, this book has a shy guy with a dirty mouth that caught me completely off guard, but I fell head over heels for him!

Camden and Sylvie's friends-to-lovers journey is simply enchanting. They have a history from their school days, and it was evident to everyone in their small town that Camden was smitten with Sylvie. However, she never seemed to realize it. Camden, once a quiet and slightly nerdy guy, has transformed into an irresistible, shy vet with a surprisingly alluring way with words. His unexpected dirty mouth had me falling for him even more. Go, Camden!

As fate brings Camden and Sylvie together to chaperone her science robotics team, he sees it as the perfect opportunity to finally make a romantic connection. Their first kiss is nothing short of magical, leaving me swooning and cheering for their happiness.

But as their love story unfolds, there's a little secret Camden is keeping that adds a twist to their path towards a happily-ever-after.

Workin' On You is an absolute must-read. Claire Hastings weaves a heartwarming tale that pulled me in from the very first page. With well-crafted characters and a captivating plot, this book had me laughing, swooning, and shedding a few tears along the way. Camden's sweet and shy personality, juxtaposed with his unexpected dirty mouth, made him a hero I won't forget anytime soon. This story is a true gem, leaving me with a radiant smile and my heart bursting with love for Camden and Sylvie's extraordinary journey.
Profile Image for Fiona.
620 reviews19 followers
July 8, 2023
This was a heartwarming friends to lovers romance. Sylvie is the female main character, and she is a nerdy science teacher. She comes across as sassy and confident at times, but also has a vulnerability that causes this otherwise assured woman to have bouts of insecurity. Camden is the main male character, and he is shy, sometimes stuttering, and sexy. They have been friends for years, but Sylvie has been blind to the fact that Camden has been has had a crush on her for ages. It is not until Camden helps her and her robotics team that she gets to spend more time with him and realizes that her feelings for him are more than just friendship. Watching their relationship grow from friends to lovers was as heartwarming as it was entertaining. Camden is such a sweetheart, so caring, and considerate of Sylvie‘s feelings. There were times when I found Sylvie a tad annoying, but on the whole, I enjoyed her nerdy/sassy/awkward personality. It was also fun to be back in Hickory Hills with the small-town vibe, the rumor mill, town busybodies, and great friends who really have your back. All in all, this was a heartfelt, feel-good enjoyable romance. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Onceupona.spine.
457 reviews14 followers
July 15, 2023
|| 𝐁 𝐎 𝐎 𝐊 𝐑 𝐄 𝐕 𝐈 𝐄 𝐖 📝          
          
𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐄: Workin' On You     
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: Claire Hastings     
          
𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒: 
𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧' 𝐎𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮 is one of those friends to lovers romances that will just melt you into a puddle of happiness.        

I 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃 this slow-burn romance!  
Camden is delicious, sweet, and all kinds of sexy. The love he has for Sylvie is simply beautiful, and I was there for it all!  
These two were such a delightful couple, both in their friendship and when they finally crossed that line over to more. 

This heartwarming book is jam-packed with the authors signature banter & unique writing style. She has a gift for creating magic with her love stories.  

If you haven't already started this amazing series, I highly recommend you do.  
       
* 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 
𝘏𝘶𝘨𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘢 𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦. 
     
𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐎𝐅:      
• Contemporary Romances       
• Steamy Reads         
• Friends-To-Lovers        
• Secret Admirer  
• Small-town Romances 
• Slow-burn Romances       
          
𝐖𝐎𝐔𝐋𝐃 𝐈 𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊:  
Definitely. I loved every minute. 
   
@Talk_About_Romantic          
Profile Image for ReadonReader.
2,646 reviews6 followers
July 22, 2023
Camden the sweet, shy guy all throughout school comes in to his own when his fantasies become a reality in this heartwarming small town romance. Over the years he overcame a lot and became the town vet, but every now and then his insecurities get the best of him especially around Sylvie. Sylvie and Camden grew up together and he has always had heart eyes for her even if she never really saw it, but now fate has thrown them together in different ways and they may have a chance to make fantasies a realty. Sylvie is nerdy herself with tons of insecurities that have her believing no one could ever find her attractive, so she always guarded herself even against Camden’s heart eyes. As these two spend more time together discovering secrets, passion, and more they can’t help but to fall hard, yet will they let the fear they carry destroy things before they get going or will they finally see what has been in front of them this whole time? This sweet read had me falling hard for the nerdy dirty talking vet that was so consumed with Sylvie and my heart hurt when she couldn’t see it. Sylvie’s insecurities ate her alive even to the point she drives Camden away even though it wasn’t as bad as she made things out to be and it irritated me, but in the end Camden’s honesty and love pushed her insecurities away or at least as little bit away.
Profile Image for Alaine McDaniel.
696 reviews27 followers
July 23, 2023
Workin’ On You- Claire Hastings

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️

I was so happy to head back to Hickory Hills and hang out with this group of friends for a little while. Firstly, I did not expect to laugh as much as I did in this book. And I fell in love with Camden immediately! I’m really looking forward to a stories for the twins and Willa soon. Let dive in shall we?

Sylvie has always seen herself as basically the DUFF of her friends group. As the school science teacher and robotics club coach, with the help of anonymous donor Mr. T, she’s able to take her team all the way to state championships. But as her relationship with town vet, Camden Tyler, is heating up, she can’t help but keep a connection to the elusive Mr. T.

Camden Tyler has been in love with Sylvie Forde since they were 8 years old. For 22 years, all he’s been is her friend, not wanting to risk their friendship by making them more. While everyone in town can tell that Camden is in love with her, Sylvie doesn’t seem to think so. When she comes asking him for help, he can’t help but give in. But Camden has a secret, a few actually. Will they be able to work through his secrets or will they be too much for a solid relationship?
Profile Image for Shani (Bttrflymama88).
460 reviews16 followers
July 24, 2023
Workin on You by Claire Hastings

Sylvie & Camden 💙


Claire is becoming on of my favs! I loved Kenzie & Dustin's book, so I knew going into this book that I was going to love this one too! However book 1 still has a vice grip on my heart. That's not to say Sylvie and Camden weren't still amazing in their own rights. Claire writes amazing book boyfriends! I mean small town, friends to lovers, both shy and nerdy in their own rights! Camden is the hot veterinarian who has love Sylvie the majority of their lives but always thought he'd forever be in the friendzone! Sylvie is a little sassy, slightly high strung, and she sometimes lets her insecurities get the best of her. It takes a minute for them to get with the program. Her last relationship wasn't good to her. And he's still a virgin. So there's things the need to navigate along with a secret. Which i didn’t feel was as big as she made it. However i could see her side of things i just sided with Camden more! But I loved watching how their friendship grew into more, how the supported and cared for one another and how they navigated through the depths of their relationship. Gotta say I'm anxiously awaiting the next book! And I'm hoping it's Noel's!!
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
2,071 reviews67 followers
July 5, 2023
Best friends to lovers is one of the best tropes to read about. When there is a relationship that has been there for a while and finally feelings are revealed it just makes me feel happy inside. This story is one that will grab your attention right from the start with the characters and the secrets that are kept.

Ms. Hastings has given us another sweet and enjoyable story that has two people, Sylvie and Camden, friends since they were kids but there is more under the surface. Sylvie is a high school teacher who is insecure about her appearance because of a past relationship. Camden is the town's vet and has had a crush on Sylvie since the day he met her. Needing a male chaperone for an overnight school trip, Camden volunteers and this is where things get interesting. Secrets are revealed and their relationship becomes more than just friends. When Sylvie learns who her anonymous donor to her Tech team is everything falls apart. Can things get back to the way they were? Will hearts win over feelings?

Grab this terrific small-town romance that will have you loving Camden and Sylvie's story.
Profile Image for Ashley Reading Stewardess.
211 reviews36 followers
July 23, 2023
I love that Claire has decided to continue writing in the Hickory Hills universe as these characters are so loving and down to earth. As much as I enjoyed the Thinking 'Bout You, I loved Workin' On You even more. There were two things about this book that made me love it more than its predecessor: the first was getting to see more of the female friendship between Sylvie, Kenzie and Willa for many of their conversations and interactions made me think of my own friendship with two of my closest sorority sisters, Cara and Annie; the second thing I loved about this was the friendship turned romance between Sylvie and Camden. I loved the fact that Camden has been carrying a torch for Sylvie since they were in 2nd grade when she saved him from complete mortification over his stutter and having to read aloud in class and watching Sylvie's eyes finally begin to see him not only for the friend that he has always been but also as the one man who sees her and thinks that she's the most beautiful woman he's ever known who hangs the moon.

When Claire first announced that she would be writing more books in her new Hickory Hills series, I really hoped that the next book was going to be about Willa as I, along with the rest of her friends, long to know what secrets she's carrying and who her one true love is (although I have my suspicions), but I'm still happy with this installment and am looking forward to more books about this amazing group of friends.
Profile Image for Amy  Crull.
2,449 reviews38 followers
January 12, 2024
Sweet book!

This book was just the sweetest! The whole feel of this book was the sweetness that just flowed with Slyvie and Cam. These two have known each other for a long time now, and nothing has ever happened. Cam has harbored feelings for her, and because of his shyness and stutter, he's never attempted to tell her this. He's also hiding some secrets from her, which end up coming out.
Slyvie has been hurt by men before, and while all the things that Cam says sound nice. She has her doubts and walls up. These two just complete each other.
What I love about this author is that she writes so well and has your attention throughout the entire book. She doesn't rush the story or bring in things that don't make sense. In this case, with Cam, she doesn't make a big deal out of him or have Slyvie make fun of him for it. There was a delicate way to handle it, and it was perfect! I also loved how the guys accepted Cam and included him in their game night. They were a hoot together! Oh and the girls were great as well! I will say I'm excited to keep reading this series! The next two books should be very interesting considering who their gonna be about lol .
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,187 reviews72 followers
June 28, 2023
I am VERY much enjoying the way this author flips things on their ear with this series. First Dustin and his commitment surprise, now Camden and his “no way” moment. Beyond the fact that he and Sylvie have been friends who always believed that they would never be more, not for lack of unrequited attraction, the worry about the big secret making its way out kept me hooked.

I adore the communication and honesty had here….for the most part, that is. Sylvie and her oh so real insecurity (because who hasn’t had someone get nasty about their body, really?), Camden and his fears of losing Sylvie, and his clear dedication to studying before attempting something might singe your eyebrows. And even though I should be mad about that one secret, I couldn’t be. Because it took a lot for that piece to be known, and even before it was, the honesty about communicating was always there.

I look forward to seeing how this author will twist the next couple, because her take on how men can be is one that I really do love!
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
3,256 reviews61 followers
July 19, 2023
Claire Hastings has again produced a really beautiful story with all the spine-tingling swoon we have come to expect from this writer with a dash of humour and a shy guy with a dirty mouth when you least expect it.

Workin On You is a friend to lover’s story where the guy Camden fell first when he and Sylvie were in school together, she may never have caught on but everyone else in their small town did, but Sylvie back then and even now wouldn’t believe that Camden would want her, he may have been quite and slightly nerdy but now the shy vet, may not be very experienced but he sure does have a dirty mouth one that made me fall in love with Camden even more, GO CAMDEN.

So when Camden gets the opportunity to spend some time with Sylvie and help chaperone her science robotics team he feels this may be their time, and boy, their first kiss goes down as one of the best I have read, but Camden has little secret that causes a bump in this couple's HEA.

A must-read.
Profile Image for Kate.
128 reviews
July 20, 2023
I really enjoy Claire's writing and this was no exception, but I have mixed feelings about this book as I didn't understand how Sylvie could have overlooked Camden for all those years. I'd be delighted to have been the subject of his affections and given that her friends were always telling her he had a thing for her, how could she not have looked at him as more than a friend before now? I appreciate she didn't have the highest opinion of herself but still. I also didn't understand how she hadn't introduced him to the guys so that he was more integrated into her close group of friends before. I confess, I don't think Sylvie really deserved Camden as he was an absolute sweetheart and I wasn't sure at the end if I really liked her or not, I'm sorry, but perhaps I'm just sad for Camden to have been pining over her for most of his life. Overall though I did really enjoy reading their story and getting to know Hickory Hills more.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,597 reviews113 followers
July 20, 2023
***ARC Provided by the Author***

I love a good small town romance so I was excited to read Camden and Silvie's story.

There were parts of this book I enjoyed. As their relationship progressed, I really enjoyed them together. I liked the way it evolved and the way they explored their mutual attraction. The end part, while predictable, did work.

That said, I am not sure I totally believed the beginning of their romance. It seemed oddly abrupt and for some reason it didn't feel authentic, enough that it was sort of something that bothered me a bit for the entire book.

I think I wanted to see more of the connection and it felt more like the reader was told about it rather than shown the romance, and I think that made the transition to lovers feel a little stilted. Once we got to the rest of the relationship, it worked and I liked both of them.

That said, overall I enjoyed and recommend this title.
709 reviews7 followers
July 24, 2023
Camden has crushed on Sylvie since they were young kids and she helped him in class, so his stutter was not as pronounced. Camden’s rough childhood was saved by her friendship and the kindness of the town vet and his wife. Fast forward many years and Camden is now the town vet and Sylvie is a high school science teacher and sponsor of the robotics team. When Sylvie’s cat emergency brings them together, Camden ends up being the male chaperone for her team, when a parent has to bow out. Sylvie finds out what her friends have always said - that Camden has liked her for a long time. But Camden is keeping another secret from her - how will she take it when the truth comes out?

I loved the two main characters, as well as the other small town characters. I did not read the first book in the series - I am interested in reading it but this worked fine as a stand alone.

I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,439 reviews14 followers
July 26, 2023
Camden Tyler and Sylvie Forde have known each other all their lives. Camden has been in love with her since they were eight. They live in the small town of Hickory Hill where everyone knows everyone else's business.

Camden is 30 and the town's Veterinary Doctor who owns Hickory Hills Vet Clinic.
Sylvie is a high school Science teacher at Knox County High School. Five years prior she took over the robotics team saving it from being cut.

But that seems to always be a problem, getting funding. Now an anonymous donor has given money to fund the program for the next five years. Sylvie is thrilled but wished she knew who the donor was.
When one of the male parents couldn't make the field trip with the kids, Camden steps in to help.

Camden and Sylvie end up spending a lot of time together and the sparks fly. But there's still some secrets that are being kept.
Will Sylvie finally see Camden in another light?

4 stars
Profile Image for Claudia, Cmarie927.
2,073 reviews41 followers
July 29, 2023
Just so good

I haven't read many from this author, but that needs to change, because these characters and their world is just so enjoyable.

Sylvie and Camden are elementary school friends, who live in Hickory Hills - a small town where everyone knows your business. Only, Cam has managed to keep something about himself a secret! And this will become a problem later.

Sylvie is an entertaining character, but I wish she wasn't as insecure! Although it was very entertaining to see Cam convince her that she is more than attractive to him! Whew! The steamy chemistry and connection between this couple was great.

I enjoyed the journey they took to reach their HEA, and loved the supportive friend group that was there when things took a downturn for this pair.

I did read out of order, (I know!! Shameful!! 🙄😁) but it can be done without super huge spoilers for book 1. I hope there's more stories to come in this series.
Profile Image for Rebekah Powers.
279 reviews4 followers
June 25, 2023
I loved this super sweet story!! A pure, golden retriever man and a nerdy woman who can’t seem to find her self esteem are the absolute perfect match! There is so much longing and tension, and a dash of heartache sprinkled around, and you can’t help but cheer on both characters as local vet and introvert, Dr. Camden Tyler, finally makes his move on his long time crush and high school science teacher, Sylvie Forde. Their science based puns are a riot. The shy, cute way they flirt, banter, and explore each other kept the biggest grin on my face.

And as in most cases, not everything is sunshine and roses, or in their case, tulips and lilies. But watching them navigate their own insecurities and finding their own inner confidence to push on is spectacular.

Camden and Sylvie will remain one of my favorite, sweetest couples around!
Profile Image for Kristen.
705 reviews9 followers
July 2, 2023
Love visiting Hickory Hills ! Sylvie and Camden were an adorable friends to lovers. They have known each other since second grade and been friends ever since. However second grade is also when Camden’s crush on Sylvie began and ever since he has been more than willing to help her with anything she could need.

In the previous book of this series we learned that Sylvie needed to raise money for her robotics team but that an anonymous donor ended up providing the funds for the next 5 years. Sylvie began a friendship with this “Mr. T” to provide him updates but also to get to know him better. It was interesting to watch that relationship and her relationship with Camden play out.

I truly hope Nash and Willa are next!
Thank you @clairehastings_author for the ARC!
Release Date: July 20, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥: “I want to feel you on me. It’s almost as good as you in me.”
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
6,557 reviews134 followers
July 24, 2023
If you love small town romances this book should certainly be on your radar. This is Dr Camden Tyler and Sylvie Force’s sweet and entertaining love story and I’m certain Workin On You will appeal to a wide range of audiences.
Camden and Sylvie have been friends since they were eight years old but the feelings they both have go way deeper than just friendship, if only they could be honest with each other….
Camden hides his secrets well and he is worried that if he opens up the secrets will send Sylvie running in the opposite direction. So will this couple take a leap of faith and cross the line or will their fear of losing their friendship ruin any chance they have of love.
One click now to find out.
This book has all the feels, it’s a sweet, romantic love story, it’s entertaining and it’s heartwarming and I highly recommend it to all romance lovers.
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