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Darling Springs #2
I've Got a Crush on You
Not yet published
Expected 28 Jul 26My secret workplace romance starts innocently enough at a birthday party.
But when a rowdy partier knocks me into a lake and a sexy stranger comes to my rescue – my night becomes one to remember.
A night so steamy I almost forget why I’ve sworn off men after a failed workplace romance.
Trouble is, the brand new doggy daycare in Darling Springs that I’ve contracted with is owned by none other than my sexy stranger. Thanks, fate.
Sawyer turns out to be a total grump in a tailored suit, no matter how sunshine-y I am. Even when he squeezes that hard body past me as I bring donuts to work. Or when he pretends he’s not roaming his dark eyes over me as I teach Fido to sit, stay and come.
But I’m focusing on my shiny new future—my dog-training business is suddenly the hottest thing in town, thanks to a new actress client. And when I’m roped into a charity dance number, I smell an opportunity, especially when I learn my hot landlord has an alter ego and a fandom.
Turns out Mr. Serious Boss is up for dance lessons.
Then the entire Dirty Dancing experience.
Giving into our chemistry once won’t hurt. Two might be pushing it. By the seventh, it’s undeniable–I’ve got a crush on him too.
But when a rowdy partier knocks me into a lake and a sexy stranger comes to my rescue – my night becomes one to remember.
A night so steamy I almost forget why I’ve sworn off men after a failed workplace romance.
Trouble is, the brand new doggy daycare in Darling Springs that I’ve contracted with is owned by none other than my sexy stranger. Thanks, fate.
Sawyer turns out to be a total grump in a tailored suit, no matter how sunshine-y I am. Even when he squeezes that hard body past me as I bring donuts to work. Or when he pretends he’s not roaming his dark eyes over me as I teach Fido to sit, stay and come.
But I’m focusing on my shiny new future—my dog-training business is suddenly the hottest thing in town, thanks to a new actress client. And when I’m roped into a charity dance number, I smell an opportunity, especially when I learn my hot landlord has an alter ego and a fandom.
Turns out Mr. Serious Boss is up for dance lessons.
Then the entire Dirty Dancing experience.
Giving into our chemistry once won’t hurt. Two might be pushing it. By the seventh, it’s undeniable–I’ve got a crush on him too.
432 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 28, 2026
About the author
Lauren Blakely
249 books25k followersYou can find Lauren on TikTok at @laurenblakelybooks! A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s sexy, feel-good and witty. Lauren likes dogs, cake and show tunes and she is the vegetarian at your dinner party.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Cosmo Reads through NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
If you love dogs....which I do....you'll love this book! Chloe is recently unemployed and goes to a party with the intention of networking for her dog training company. She meets Sawyer and a series of mishaps occur that lead to a fun (mutually agreed upon) one night stand. Fast forward, the networking did work and Chloe needs to find a space to rent and wouldn't you know, the space for the newest doggy daycare is owned by Mister Serious, Sawyer.
I loved the banter between these characters. It flowed so naturally and I loved that Chloe was such a strong and confident FMC. I was actually envious of a fictional character because she was quick with the comebacks, quick to stand up for herself, and quick to ask for what she wanted. Sawyer was so flipping strait laced and needed a Chloe in his life. He was keeping a secret identity that Chloe helped to pull out of him and embrace not being perfect. I love that she worked to bring out the best in him.
There is a lot of push pull throughout the story. It was just a tad too long for me in that I wish maybe one of the push pull instances could have been cut out. I did enjoy that the big drama wasn't this played out scene and we had quick resolution and that it actually progressed the storyline and Sawyer's character.
As this is the second in a series, I will say that it was very well done as an interconnected standalone because I didn't feel lost or confused since I haven't read the first novel in the series.
If you love dogs....which I do....you'll love this book! Chloe is recently unemployed and goes to a party with the intention of networking for her dog training company. She meets Sawyer and a series of mishaps occur that lead to a fun (mutually agreed upon) one night stand. Fast forward, the networking did work and Chloe needs to find a space to rent and wouldn't you know, the space for the newest doggy daycare is owned by Mister Serious, Sawyer.
I loved the banter between these characters. It flowed so naturally and I loved that Chloe was such a strong and confident FMC. I was actually envious of a fictional character because she was quick with the comebacks, quick to stand up for herself, and quick to ask for what she wanted. Sawyer was so flipping strait laced and needed a Chloe in his life. He was keeping a secret identity that Chloe helped to pull out of him and embrace not being perfect. I love that she worked to bring out the best in him.
There is a lot of push pull throughout the story. It was just a tad too long for me in that I wish maybe one of the push pull instances could have been cut out. I did enjoy that the big drama wasn't this played out scene and we had quick resolution and that it actually progressed the storyline and Sawyer's character.
As this is the second in a series, I will say that it was very well done as an interconnected standalone because I didn't feel lost or confused since I haven't read the first novel in the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Cosmo Reads and NetGalley for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.
opposites Attract
☀️ Sunshine x Grump
🏢 Workplace / Business Romance
🩷 Strong FMC
✨ Character Growth
🐾 Cozy Small-Town Feel
😂 Banter & Flirty Chemistry
🏠 Interconnected Standalone
This book was such a fun and charming romance, especially as someone who will instantly pick up a book if there’s a dog involved. I loved how naturally the chemistry between Chloe and Sawyer developed from their first chaotic meeting. Their banter felt effortless, funny, and full of personality, which made every interaction between them entertaining to read.
Chloe was probably my favorite part of the book. She’s confident, outspoken, and knows exactly what she wants, but still felt very genuine and relatable. Sawyer balanced her out perfectly with his more serious and controlled personality, and I really enjoyed watching Chloe slowly pull him out of his comfort zone. Their dynamic had that perfect opposites-attract energy without feeling overly dramatic.
I also appreciated that the story focused on personal growth alongside the romance. Sawyer learning to let go of perfection and Chloe building something for herself gave the story more depth beyond just the relationship. The dog daycare setting added so much warmth and personality too, which made the whole book feel cozy and fun.
Overall, this was a sweet, entertaining romance with great chemistry, lovable dogs, and a couple that was easy to root for. It also worked really well as a standalone, even being part of a series.
opposites Attract
☀️ Sunshine x Grump
🏢 Workplace / Business Romance
🩷 Strong FMC
✨ Character Growth
🐾 Cozy Small-Town Feel
😂 Banter & Flirty Chemistry
🏠 Interconnected Standalone
This book was such a fun and charming romance, especially as someone who will instantly pick up a book if there’s a dog involved. I loved how naturally the chemistry between Chloe and Sawyer developed from their first chaotic meeting. Their banter felt effortless, funny, and full of personality, which made every interaction between them entertaining to read.
Chloe was probably my favorite part of the book. She’s confident, outspoken, and knows exactly what she wants, but still felt very genuine and relatable. Sawyer balanced her out perfectly with his more serious and controlled personality, and I really enjoyed watching Chloe slowly pull him out of his comfort zone. Their dynamic had that perfect opposites-attract energy without feeling overly dramatic.
I also appreciated that the story focused on personal growth alongside the romance. Sawyer learning to let go of perfection and Chloe building something for herself gave the story more depth beyond just the relationship. The dog daycare setting added so much warmth and personality too, which made the whole book feel cozy and fun.
Overall, this was a sweet, entertaining romance with great chemistry, lovable dogs, and a couple that was easy to root for. It also worked really well as a standalone, even being part of a series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Chloe necesita un nuevo comienzo. Después de un desastre laboral que termina costándole el trabajo, un ex que todavía sabe cómo arruinarle el día y una vida que parece empeñada en ponerle obstáculos, asistir a una extravagante fiesta de cumpleaños para un perro parece la peor forma de cerrar una jornada horrible. Pero cuando llega a ese evento absurdo y conoce a Sawyer, un hombre tan atractivo como gruñón, descubre que a veces los días más caóticos esconden sorpresas inesperadas.
Sawyer tampoco atraviesa su mejor momento. Tiene demasiadas cosas pesando sobre sus hombros y una lista interminable de razones para no buscar complicaciones. Lo último que espera es sentirse atraído por una mujer impulsiva, divertida y completamente diferente a él. Lo que comienza como una conversación en una fiesta imposible pronto se convierte en una conexión difícil de ignorar. El problema es que algunas personas llegan cuando menos las buscas y justo por eso terminan convirtiéndose en el mayor riesgo de todos.
Sawyer tampoco atraviesa su mejor momento. Tiene demasiadas cosas pesando sobre sus hombros y una lista interminable de razones para no buscar complicaciones. Lo último que espera es sentirse atraído por una mujer impulsiva, divertida y completamente diferente a él. Lo que comienza como una conversación en una fiesta imposible pronto se convierte en una conexión difícil de ignorar. El problema es que algunas personas llegan cuando menos las buscas y justo por eso terminan convirtiéndose en el mayor riesgo de todos.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC REVIEW ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Thank you to Cosmo Reads and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
If you're a dog lover, this book is a delightful escape! It follows Chloe, an aspiring dog trainer, who unexpectedly connects with Sawyer at a party. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I enjoyed their witty banter. Chloe's strong personality is refreshing, while Sawyer's serious demeanor adds an interesting dynamic as they help each other grow.
However, the relationship drama felt a bit overdone at times; I found myself wishing for a quicker resolution to their conflicts. While I appreciated the character development, the repetitive breakups got a little tiresome. That said, I still recommend it for anyone who enjoys small-town stories with a cozy atmosphere and, of course, dogs! Overall, a charming read with a few hiccups.
Thank you to Cosmo Reads and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
If you're a dog lover, this book is a delightful escape! It follows Chloe, an aspiring dog trainer, who unexpectedly connects with Sawyer at a party. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I enjoyed their witty banter. Chloe's strong personality is refreshing, while Sawyer's serious demeanor adds an interesting dynamic as they help each other grow.
However, the relationship drama felt a bit overdone at times; I found myself wishing for a quicker resolution to their conflicts. While I appreciated the character development, the repetitive breakups got a little tiresome. That said, I still recommend it for anyone who enjoys small-town stories with a cozy atmosphere and, of course, dogs! Overall, a charming read with a few hiccups.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
lauren blakely hits the spot again..I read this book in less than 24hours inhaling every funny witty moment of it.
I live for a grumpy sunshine book and when it is laced with witty relatable moments it absoutly got me out of my book slump!
I really really enjoyed the relationship between sawyer and Chloe and I loved that she was so open and forward with her wants and needs, very refreshing change from the mmc being very vocal and the fmc following/discovering herself. Chloe was a women who knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid to tell anymore!
additionally, as a dog lover, i loved their part in This story.
great read, highly recommend it!
I live for a grumpy sunshine book and when it is laced with witty relatable moments it absoutly got me out of my book slump!
I really really enjoyed the relationship between sawyer and Chloe and I loved that she was so open and forward with her wants and needs, very refreshing change from the mmc being very vocal and the fmc following/discovering herself. Chloe was a women who knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid to tell anymore!
additionally, as a dog lover, i loved their part in This story.
great read, highly recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this from Net Galley and the publisher for an honest review. My opinion remains my own.
I love Lauren Blakely. Her books are consistently solid, with strong characters, fun plots, a few laughs, and some nicely done spice.
This book is no different - except for the dogs. There are dogs everywhere. Our MCs both have jobs working with dogs.
Chloe and Sawyer had great chemistry. The only reason it wasn't a five star book was that I got tired of the breaking up and being mad. I get it; you've both been burned in the past. But rather than hurt each other, think things through first. And has anyone heard of therapy??
Still recommending this one, especially if you like small town cozy vibes with dogs.
I love Lauren Blakely. Her books are consistently solid, with strong characters, fun plots, a few laughs, and some nicely done spice.
This book is no different - except for the dogs. There are dogs everywhere. Our MCs both have jobs working with dogs.
Chloe and Sawyer had great chemistry. The only reason it wasn't a five star book was that I got tired of the breaking up and being mad. I get it; you've both been burned in the past. But rather than hurt each other, think things through first. And has anyone heard of therapy??
Still recommending this one, especially if you like small town cozy vibes with dogs.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lauren Blakely never fails in writing sweet, humorous stories with likable characters in cozy settings. This book was no exception. Her FMCs are always relatably flawed and the banter between the MCs are always spot-on. My only thing is the pacing and length. The story could be a bit shorter with faster pacing. But it was still an entertaining read. Thank you to the author and publisher for this ARC!
May 21, 2026
4.5/5 stars!
This was an incredibly fun read, just what I needed. Spicy and swoony workplace/sort of forbidden romance with an excellent HEA. I am an absolute sucker for a small town romance and Darling Springs is the perfect setting. This was a lovely summer read. I will absolutely be reading more from this series!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC!
This was an incredibly fun read, just what I needed. Spicy and swoony workplace/sort of forbidden romance with an excellent HEA. I am an absolute sucker for a small town romance and Darling Springs is the perfect setting. This was a lovely summer read. I will absolutely be reading more from this series!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed the story. It felt like a cozy and hopeful read for me. I definitely recommend it. The characters personalities were interesting and the writing was fine. I had no problem with this book. If you’re looking for something that’s cozy to read, this one is for you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
El libro anterior lo intente leer, pero no pase del tercer capítulo, pero viendo como disfrute de este, le daré otra oportunidad.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews