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Darling Springs #1
It Seemed like a Good Idea
Performed in duet by Erin Mallon and JF Harding! A spicy and hilarious forbidden small town rom com from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lauren Blakely!
He ghosted me once, now he’s supposed to protect me?
I don’t need a bodyguard—I run a small-town lavender farm, for bee’s sake. But when my identical twin sister lands the movie role of a lifetime that’s being shot in my hometown I get one anyway.
And guess which broody, tattooed protector the studio sends to keep the paparazzi off my porch?
Last month’s almost one-night stand.
The guy with the wicked mouth and heated eyes who slipped out before the fun even started. But turns out the sexy jerk is excellent at rescuing me from sneaky photographers at the market. Then the coffee shop. I’m trying hard to stay mad after the third time my new bodyguard saves me.
To top it all off, he’s staying in the cottage at my farm. With me. And there’s only one bed.
Maybe if we finally give in and finish what we started, it’ll relieve the tension? But one night quickly turns into another. Then into late-night secrets and soft confessions we shouldn’t say out loud. Especially since he’s leaving and I’m staying, and there’s no way we can be more than a summer romance that ends far too soon.
Escape into a spicy and hilarious forbidden small town rom com from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lauren Blakely!
Tropes: Small town, rom com, grumpy/sunshine, bodyguard, mistaken identity, forbidden romance, only one bed
He ghosted me once, now he’s supposed to protect me?
I don’t need a bodyguard—I run a small-town lavender farm, for bee’s sake. But when my identical twin sister lands the movie role of a lifetime that’s being shot in my hometown I get one anyway.
And guess which broody, tattooed protector the studio sends to keep the paparazzi off my porch?
Last month’s almost one-night stand.
The guy with the wicked mouth and heated eyes who slipped out before the fun even started. But turns out the sexy jerk is excellent at rescuing me from sneaky photographers at the market. Then the coffee shop. I’m trying hard to stay mad after the third time my new bodyguard saves me.
To top it all off, he’s staying in the cottage at my farm. With me. And there’s only one bed.
Maybe if we finally give in and finish what we started, it’ll relieve the tension? But one night quickly turns into another. Then into late-night secrets and soft confessions we shouldn’t say out loud. Especially since he’s leaving and I’m staying, and there’s no way we can be more than a summer romance that ends far too soon.
Escape into a spicy and hilarious forbidden small town rom com from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lauren Blakely!
Tropes: Small town, rom com, grumpy/sunshine, bodyguard, mistaken identity, forbidden romance, only one bed
Audible Audio
First published March 3, 2026
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About the author
Lauren Blakely
246 books24.8k 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 - 30 of 1,127 reviews
March 13, 2026
3.25 ⭐️🎧
This book showed up with the following qualifications:
• broody tattooed bodyguard
• sunshine heroine with a lavender farm
• awkward almost-one-night-stand reunion
• paparazzi chaos in a tiny town
And honestly? That résumé alone had me ready to approve the romance immediately.
For the first half I was thriving. The chemistry was chemistry-ing, the banter was bantering, and the small-town setting was pulling its weight.
But around the midpoint the story quietly clocked out and left the romance running on autopilot.
Still fun. Just not particularly memorable.
Anyway, here’s the tea.
What Worked For Me
(aka the things keeping this rating afloat)
The small town vibes were vibing
I loved the setting here.
Ripley running her lavender farm while Hollywood chaos descends on her quiet town because her twin sister is filming a movie nearby?
That premise alone is fun.
The contrast between:
• sleepy small-town life
• paparazzi suddenly lurking everywhere
• Banks constantly having to step in and bodyguard the situation
…created a lot of cute, chaotic moments.
Bonus points for the lavender farm aesthetic, which honestly made the whole book feel cozy.
Banks and Ripley had great initial chemistry
When Banks and Ripley first start interacting again after their disastrous almost-hookup, the tension is excellent.
You’ve got:
• unresolved attraction
• Ripley rightfully annoyed that Banks ghosted before their one night stand
• Banks being all broody and intense while pretending everything is “professional”
The dynamic works. The dialogue is playful, a little flirty, and sometimes genuinely funny.
And since I listened to the audiobook, the duet narration by Erin Mallon and JF Harding definitely helped bring that banter to life.
The trope lineup? Elite.
This book knows exactly what it is.
We’re talking:
• grumpy bodyguard
• sunshine small-town heroine
• forced proximity
• unfinished one-night-stand tension
• temporary romance
Is it predictable? Yes.
But sometimes being predictable is comforting. And for the first half, it absolutely worked.
Where Things Started to Stall
(aka: the midpoint slowdown)
The relationship stayed a little… surface level
Around the midpoint the momentum kind of fizzled out.
Banks and Ripley clearly have chemistry, but a lot of their connection ends up being mostly physical, and the emotional development never digs quite as deep as I wanted.
They’re attracted to each other.
They like each other.
But the story never fully convinced me that the emotional stakes were evolving in a meaningful way.
So instead of the tension escalating, the relationship just sort of… coasts.
The plot becomes very predictable
Now listen.
I am not anti-predictable. Romance thrives on familiar beats.
But once the central relationship settles in, the rest of the book follows a very straightforward path with no real surprises or emotional curveballs.
Everything plays out exactly the way you expect.
Which again - fine! But it does mean the book ends up feeling more pleasant than impactful.
The story hit cruise control
The first half moves quickly and keeps the tension simmering, but the latter half slows down a lot. Scenes start stretching longer than they need to, while the story itself doesn’t actually move forward much.
So the pacing ends up feeling both slow and uneven, which makes the back half drag compared to the strong start.
Final Thoughts
Overall this was a fun, easy, tropey romance that I genuinely enjoyed while reading.
The small-town setting is charming.
Banks and Ripley have great chemistry.
The opening half is especially engaging.
But by the midpoint the story loses some momentum, the emotional depth never fully develops, and the romance stays a little too safe.
Final Verdict
3.25 stars - A cozy, trope-filled bodyguard romance that starts strong, delivers solid chemistry and banter, but ultimately stays a little too predictable to leave a lasting impression.
Cute? Yes. Memorable? Not quite.
But for a few hours, the lavender farm bodyguard fantasy absolutely did its job.
Tropes and Vibes:
• Grumpy bodyguard x sunshine heroine
• Small town setting
• Hollywood chaos meets cozy farm life
• Almost one-night stand reunion
• Forced proximity
• Protective MMC energy
• Banter-heavy dialogue
• Paparazzi shenanigans
• Tattooed broody MMC
• Easy, trope-forward comfort read
This book showed up with the following qualifications:
• broody tattooed bodyguard
• sunshine heroine with a lavender farm
• awkward almost-one-night-stand reunion
• paparazzi chaos in a tiny town
And honestly? That résumé alone had me ready to approve the romance immediately.
For the first half I was thriving. The chemistry was chemistry-ing, the banter was bantering, and the small-town setting was pulling its weight.
But around the midpoint the story quietly clocked out and left the romance running on autopilot.
Still fun. Just not particularly memorable.
Anyway, here’s the tea.
What Worked For Me
(aka the things keeping this rating afloat)
The small town vibes were vibing
I loved the setting here.
Ripley running her lavender farm while Hollywood chaos descends on her quiet town because her twin sister is filming a movie nearby?
That premise alone is fun.
The contrast between:
• sleepy small-town life
• paparazzi suddenly lurking everywhere
• Banks constantly having to step in and bodyguard the situation
…created a lot of cute, chaotic moments.
Bonus points for the lavender farm aesthetic, which honestly made the whole book feel cozy.
Banks and Ripley had great initial chemistry
When Banks and Ripley first start interacting again after their disastrous almost-hookup, the tension is excellent.
You’ve got:
• unresolved attraction
• Ripley rightfully annoyed that Banks ghosted before their one night stand
• Banks being all broody and intense while pretending everything is “professional”
The dynamic works. The dialogue is playful, a little flirty, and sometimes genuinely funny.
And since I listened to the audiobook, the duet narration by Erin Mallon and JF Harding definitely helped bring that banter to life.
The trope lineup? Elite.
This book knows exactly what it is.
We’re talking:
• grumpy bodyguard
• sunshine small-town heroine
• forced proximity
• unfinished one-night-stand tension
• temporary romance
Is it predictable? Yes.
But sometimes being predictable is comforting. And for the first half, it absolutely worked.
Where Things Started to Stall
(aka: the midpoint slowdown)
The relationship stayed a little… surface level
Around the midpoint the momentum kind of fizzled out.
Banks and Ripley clearly have chemistry, but a lot of their connection ends up being mostly physical, and the emotional development never digs quite as deep as I wanted.
They’re attracted to each other.
They like each other.
But the story never fully convinced me that the emotional stakes were evolving in a meaningful way.
So instead of the tension escalating, the relationship just sort of… coasts.
The plot becomes very predictable
Now listen.
I am not anti-predictable. Romance thrives on familiar beats.
But once the central relationship settles in, the rest of the book follows a very straightforward path with no real surprises or emotional curveballs.
Everything plays out exactly the way you expect.
Which again - fine! But it does mean the book ends up feeling more pleasant than impactful.
The story hit cruise control
The first half moves quickly and keeps the tension simmering, but the latter half slows down a lot. Scenes start stretching longer than they need to, while the story itself doesn’t actually move forward much.
So the pacing ends up feeling both slow and uneven, which makes the back half drag compared to the strong start.
Final Thoughts
Overall this was a fun, easy, tropey romance that I genuinely enjoyed while reading.
The small-town setting is charming.
Banks and Ripley have great chemistry.
The opening half is especially engaging.
But by the midpoint the story loses some momentum, the emotional depth never fully develops, and the romance stays a little too safe.
Final Verdict
3.25 stars - A cozy, trope-filled bodyguard romance that starts strong, delivers solid chemistry and banter, but ultimately stays a little too predictable to leave a lasting impression.
Cute? Yes. Memorable? Not quite.
But for a few hours, the lavender farm bodyguard fantasy absolutely did its job.
Tropes and Vibes:
• Grumpy bodyguard x sunshine heroine
• Small town setting
• Hollywood chaos meets cozy farm life
• Almost one-night stand reunion
• Forced proximity
• Protective MMC energy
• Banter-heavy dialogue
• Paparazzi shenanigans
• Tattooed broody MMC
• Easy, trope-forward comfort read
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As always, we ARE skipping the spicy chapters. Aside from that, I think this was a cute story. Believe it or not, this is my first bodyguard romance, and I adored it 🩵. Also, this is my second Lauren Blakely book, and I love how she includes a Muslim character in her books. I loved the chemistry between Banks and Ripley and how well they understand each other. The audiobook made the whole experience better with Erin Mallon and JF Harding narrating it ♥️
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
SKIP CHAPTER:3, 21, 28, 32, 33, 34, 37, 42, 53
So...... I got the eARC from NetGalley & The ALC from Good Girls PR....... I feel so lucky 💙💜
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
SKIP CHAPTER:3, 21, 28, 32, 33, 34, 37, 42, 53
So...... I got the eARC from NetGalley & The ALC from Good Girls PR....... I feel so lucky 💙💜
February 20, 2026
Read if you like:
💜 Grumpy x sunshine
🌾 Small-town romance
🛏 Only one bed
🛡 Bodyguard x client
🌿 Forced proximity
🔥 Banter + forbidden tension
📚 Ripley is perfectly happy running her lavender farm in a quiet small town… until her movie-star twin shows up with a film crew, paparazzi, and an unexpected bodyguard assigned to keep things under control. Unfortunately for Ripley, that bodyguard is Banks—the broody, tattooed man she had a one-night almost-stand with…and who disappeared before things could really begin. Now he’s living on her farm, protecting her from chaos, and testing every ounce of her patience.
👨👧 Banks is peak swoony protector: controlled, observant, and quietly carrying emotional baggage beneath that tough exterior. He’s equal parts caveman and gentleman, and the more time he spends around Ripley, the harder it becomes to keep things professional. Ripley is strong, independent, and a little guarded after being hurt. She’s used to putting everyone else first, but with Banks constantly in her orbit, she’s forced to confront what she really wants.
💞 The chemistry is immediate and fiery. Their dynamic is a constant push and pull—teasing, challenging, and daring each other while pretending they can keep things strictly business. Spoiler: they absolutely cannot. The banter is sharp, the tension delicious, and the slow unraveling of their emotional walls gives the romance real depth beneath the heat.
👧 The small-town setting of Darling Springs adds charm and warmth, with supportive friendships, family bonds, and a community that feels lived-in. Ripley’s relationship with her twin and her circle of friends adds heart and balance to the story.
✍️ Lauren Blakely delivers a fun, sexy, feel-good romance with humor, heat, and emotional growth. There’s a satisfying mix of light suspense, vulnerability, and playful competition between the characters that keeps the story engaging from start to finish.
🌟 It Seemed Like a Good Idea is a charming, flirty small-town romance full of banter, tension, and protective hero energy. Sweet, spicy, and entertaining with just enough heart to make you swoon.
📲 QOTD: Do you love a bodyguard romance… or are you here for the small-town grumpy/sunshine vibes? 👀
#ItSeemedLikeAGoodIdea #LaurenBlakely #SmallTownRomance #GrumpySunshine #RomanceBooks
💜 Grumpy x sunshine
🌾 Small-town romance
🛏 Only one bed
🛡 Bodyguard x client
🌿 Forced proximity
🔥 Banter + forbidden tension
📚 Ripley is perfectly happy running her lavender farm in a quiet small town… until her movie-star twin shows up with a film crew, paparazzi, and an unexpected bodyguard assigned to keep things under control. Unfortunately for Ripley, that bodyguard is Banks—the broody, tattooed man she had a one-night almost-stand with…and who disappeared before things could really begin. Now he’s living on her farm, protecting her from chaos, and testing every ounce of her patience.
👨👧 Banks is peak swoony protector: controlled, observant, and quietly carrying emotional baggage beneath that tough exterior. He’s equal parts caveman and gentleman, and the more time he spends around Ripley, the harder it becomes to keep things professional. Ripley is strong, independent, and a little guarded after being hurt. She’s used to putting everyone else first, but with Banks constantly in her orbit, she’s forced to confront what she really wants.
💞 The chemistry is immediate and fiery. Their dynamic is a constant push and pull—teasing, challenging, and daring each other while pretending they can keep things strictly business. Spoiler: they absolutely cannot. The banter is sharp, the tension delicious, and the slow unraveling of their emotional walls gives the romance real depth beneath the heat.
👧 The small-town setting of Darling Springs adds charm and warmth, with supportive friendships, family bonds, and a community that feels lived-in. Ripley’s relationship with her twin and her circle of friends adds heart and balance to the story.
✍️ Lauren Blakely delivers a fun, sexy, feel-good romance with humor, heat, and emotional growth. There’s a satisfying mix of light suspense, vulnerability, and playful competition between the characters that keeps the story engaging from start to finish.
🌟 It Seemed Like a Good Idea is a charming, flirty small-town romance full of banter, tension, and protective hero energy. Sweet, spicy, and entertaining with just enough heart to make you swoon.
📲 QOTD: Do you love a bodyguard romance… or are you here for the small-town grumpy/sunshine vibes? 👀
#ItSeemedLikeAGoodIdea #LaurenBlakely #SmallTownRomance #GrumpySunshine #RomanceBooks
December 22, 2025
The vibes in this book were so fun. Another perfect and cozy read by Lauren Blakely!
Set in the beautiful mazes of lavender fields, Ripley helps her identical twin sister host the filming site for her sister, Haven’s big movie! Since Haven is now a big star, the paparazzi are crawling all over the place trying to catch the big money shot of her and her new co-star, New Chris. And since Ripley looks just like her sister, she gets a bodyguard. A hunky special security services bodyguard named Banks.
And oh Banks. Banks, Banks, Banks. Honestly thinks he has a shot at not being able to fall in love with the beautiful and feisty Ripley whom he actually had a brief, almost-one-night-stand with a month prior to his gig as her bodyguard. Now that was an encounter you’re going to want to read about. But Banks’ job as her bodyguard needs to be perfect since the big deal he and his partners are trying to land is at stake. I mean their security firm will be set for life if they land it.
I loved reading about this relationship all in the middle of everyone confusing the twins for each other except Banks. Banks knew it was Ripley every time because of the feeling he got near her.
Go read this book!
Thank you NetGalley and Lauren Blakely for the amazing opportunity to read this book and share my honest opinions.
Set in the beautiful mazes of lavender fields, Ripley helps her identical twin sister host the filming site for her sister, Haven’s big movie! Since Haven is now a big star, the paparazzi are crawling all over the place trying to catch the big money shot of her and her new co-star, New Chris. And since Ripley looks just like her sister, she gets a bodyguard. A hunky special security services bodyguard named Banks.
And oh Banks. Banks, Banks, Banks. Honestly thinks he has a shot at not being able to fall in love with the beautiful and feisty Ripley whom he actually had a brief, almost-one-night-stand with a month prior to his gig as her bodyguard. Now that was an encounter you’re going to want to read about. But Banks’ job as her bodyguard needs to be perfect since the big deal he and his partners are trying to land is at stake. I mean their security firm will be set for life if they land it.
I loved reading about this relationship all in the middle of everyone confusing the twins for each other except Banks. Banks knew it was Ripley every time because of the feeling he got near her.
Go read this book!
Thank you NetGalley and Lauren Blakely for the amazing opportunity to read this book and share my honest opinions.
February 20, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
Okay but… this book? This book.
It Seemed Like a Good Idea might honestly be my favorite Lauren Blakely to date — and that is saying something. I adored it. Devoured it. Wanted to immediately reread it just to relive the tension all over again.
The premise alone had me grinning because you just know when something is described as “a good idea,” it absolutely is not. And watching that “good idea” unravel in the most delicious, tension-filled way? Chef’s kiss.
The banter? Elite.
The chemistry? Off the charts.
The slow-burn tension that makes you want to yell “JUST KISS ALREADY” at your book? Perfectly executed.
What I loved most is that beneath all the flirty chaos and sizzling attraction, there’s real heart. The emotional payoff felt earned. The characters weren’t just hot (though yes, very much that) — they were layered, vulnerable, and genuinely likable. I was fully invested in them getting out of their own way.
Lauren Blakely always delivers smart, confident characters and sparkling dialogue, but this one just hit differently for me. It felt extra sharp, extra swoony, extra addictive.
I laughed. I swooned. I may have clutched the book dramatically at one point.
If you love:
• “This is probably a terrible idea” romance
• Banter that practically crackles
• Steamy but still emotionally satisfying storytelling
• A romance that leaves you smiling like an idiot
Run, don’t walk.
This one wasn’t just a good idea — it was a great one.
2/5 🌶️
Okay but… this book? This book.
It Seemed Like a Good Idea might honestly be my favorite Lauren Blakely to date — and that is saying something. I adored it. Devoured it. Wanted to immediately reread it just to relive the tension all over again.
The premise alone had me grinning because you just know when something is described as “a good idea,” it absolutely is not. And watching that “good idea” unravel in the most delicious, tension-filled way? Chef’s kiss.
The banter? Elite.
The chemistry? Off the charts.
The slow-burn tension that makes you want to yell “JUST KISS ALREADY” at your book? Perfectly executed.
What I loved most is that beneath all the flirty chaos and sizzling attraction, there’s real heart. The emotional payoff felt earned. The characters weren’t just hot (though yes, very much that) — they were layered, vulnerable, and genuinely likable. I was fully invested in them getting out of their own way.
Lauren Blakely always delivers smart, confident characters and sparkling dialogue, but this one just hit differently for me. It felt extra sharp, extra swoony, extra addictive.
I laughed. I swooned. I may have clutched the book dramatically at one point.
If you love:
• “This is probably a terrible idea” romance
• Banter that practically crackles
• Steamy but still emotionally satisfying storytelling
• A romance that leaves you smiling like an idiot
Run, don’t walk.
This one wasn’t just a good idea — it was a great one.
March 10, 2026
cute small town bodyguard romance
her twin sister is a movie star and shooting a movie in their hometown. she gets a bodyguard to keep her out of harms way. she meets bodyguard and realizes it’s the guy she ~almost~ had a one night stand with
very cute & charming. lighthearted. easy read.
her twin sister is a movie star and shooting a movie in their hometown. she gets a bodyguard to keep her out of harms way. she meets bodyguard and realizes it’s the guy she ~almost~ had a one night stand with
very cute & charming. lighthearted. easy read.
January 3, 2026
3.5/5 stars - rounded up
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this e-arc copy - releasing in March 2026
Ripley lives a simple life - running her lavender farm, taking care of those around her and always fixing things. Her latest project is for her twin sister, an actress about to shoot her biggest movie yet - in their hometown and the lavender farm. So Ripley takes on a lot to try and get things ready - and also to help her forget about the almost one night stand she got ghosted on a month ago. But with press ramping up, the movie studio decides to send security for Ripley - and it’s no other than the ghoster himself - Banks. Although he had reasons to run that night, he did always regret how he went about it. Now he knows he is coming face to face with the woman he can’t get out of his head - but this time he needs to remain professional. This is a small town, bodyguard romance with lots of heat, some banter and heart. I like the premise and the writing, but for me I was missing the emotional drama - the oomph - but I would definitely read more from this author.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this e-arc copy - releasing in March 2026
Ripley lives a simple life - running her lavender farm, taking care of those around her and always fixing things. Her latest project is for her twin sister, an actress about to shoot her biggest movie yet - in their hometown and the lavender farm. So Ripley takes on a lot to try and get things ready - and also to help her forget about the almost one night stand she got ghosted on a month ago. But with press ramping up, the movie studio decides to send security for Ripley - and it’s no other than the ghoster himself - Banks. Although he had reasons to run that night, he did always regret how he went about it. Now he knows he is coming face to face with the woman he can’t get out of his head - but this time he needs to remain professional. This is a small town, bodyguard romance with lots of heat, some banter and heart. I like the premise and the writing, but for me I was missing the emotional drama - the oomph - but I would definitely read more from this author.
March 18, 2026
How do I convince you to read this book? Easy—this was a 5-star, couldn’t-put-it-down romance for me.
It Seemed Like a Good Idea hooked me right away and completely flew by. Lauren Blakely packed so much heart, tension, and chemistry into a full-length story that never once felt slow. This is a forbidden, bodyguard/client romance with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
I absolutely loved Ripley. Her loyalty and protectiveness—especially toward her twin sister Haven—added so much emotional depth. Their relationship was one of my favorite parts of the story. The twin dynamic brought both heartfelt moments and a bit of fun (and convenience!) as they stepped in for each other.
And Banks… I adored him. His attention to detail, something that serves him in his job, made the romance feel even more intimate. Both he and Ripley love fiercely, and I loved how they were willing to sacrifice for each other. Their connection felt passionate, all-consuming, and completely believable.
This one had me swooning, a little emotional at times, but mostly just fully invested in their love story.
If you love forbidden romance, protective MMCs, and strong, loving heroines—read this book.
Thank you to Lauren Blakely, Cosmo Reads, and NetGalley for the ARC!
It Seemed Like a Good Idea hooked me right away and completely flew by. Lauren Blakely packed so much heart, tension, and chemistry into a full-length story that never once felt slow. This is a forbidden, bodyguard/client romance with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
I absolutely loved Ripley. Her loyalty and protectiveness—especially toward her twin sister Haven—added so much emotional depth. Their relationship was one of my favorite parts of the story. The twin dynamic brought both heartfelt moments and a bit of fun (and convenience!) as they stepped in for each other.
And Banks… I adored him. His attention to detail, something that serves him in his job, made the romance feel even more intimate. Both he and Ripley love fiercely, and I loved how they were willing to sacrifice for each other. Their connection felt passionate, all-consuming, and completely believable.
This one had me swooning, a little emotional at times, but mostly just fully invested in their love story.
If you love forbidden romance, protective MMCs, and strong, loving heroines—read this book.
Thank you to Lauren Blakely, Cosmo Reads, and NetGalley for the ARC!
March 31, 2026
Cheesy fun
4.5⭐️
3.5/5🌶️
Dual/first person POV
Book 1 in a series of interconnected standalones
Format: audiobook
Spoiler free
I was in the mood for a contemporary romance & this hit the spot. This book is sooooo ridiculously formulaic, insanely predictable & very farfetched but boy is this a frivolous, corny, spicy good time😂 Helps keep the brain power to a bare minimum.
The pacing at the start is a little bumpy but that evens out. FMC starts off so damn childish but she really grew on me. MMC is perfectly charming. They have organic chemistry with each other.
Perfect narration! The narrators are the real MVPs; they contributed immensely to my high rating.
4.5⭐️
3.5/5🌶️
Dual/first person POV
Book 1 in a series of interconnected standalones
Format: audiobook
Spoiler free
I was in the mood for a contemporary romance & this hit the spot. This book is sooooo ridiculously formulaic, insanely predictable & very farfetched but boy is this a frivolous, corny, spicy good time😂 Helps keep the brain power to a bare minimum.
The pacing at the start is a little bumpy but that evens out. FMC starts off so damn childish but she really grew on me. MMC is perfectly charming. They have organic chemistry with each other.
Perfect narration! The narrators are the real MVPs; they contributed immensely to my high rating.
March 3, 2026
This is the first book in the darling springs series and I loved it so much.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 21, 2025
actually quite enjoyed this. the names are so fuck ass who though, i couldnt take anyone seriously when they were named Ripley and Banks. Also Ripley has a twin named Haven like wtf is this naming. I will say the identical twin who is a movie star is a great way to use the bodyguard x normie trope which i thoroughly enjoyed. i can list out every trope because it was that obvious: one night stand, bodyguard, one bed, fwb every trop ever. the pacing was not bad, but the middle was just this middle area where they were fucking with feelings and not confessing anything. i did enjoy both of their childhood trauma and how it contributed to the relationship. lauren blakely you are so obvious i called every single side couple in this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“So you knew?” I ask as he moves over me again. “That I couldn’t resist you?” “Yes.” He sets a hand on my chest, then coasts it down my body. “Sweetheart, I’ve never been able to resist you.” 🩵
I was so excited to receive an ARC of It Seemed Like a Good Idea and it absolutely lived up to my expectations. Lauren Blakely is one of those authors I trust completely and once again her writing hit all my favourite notes. Sharp banter, delicious chemistry, satisfying spice and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Ripley and Banks were instantly addictive. The bodyguard trope is already a win for me, but add a small-town lavender farm, an almost one-night stand with unresolved tension and yes, only one bed and I was fully invested. I loved how playful and funny this story felt while still delivering emotional depth and genuine connection. The forced proximity worked beautifully, the chemistry simmered before it ignited and the rom-com energy was spot on throughout.
As the start of a brand new series, this was such a strong, exciting opener and I already can’t wait for what’s next.
Tropes & Themes 🌸🔥
🌿 Small-Town Romance
🖤 Bodyguard Romance
☀️🌧️ Grumpy / Sunshine
🛏️ Only One Bed
🔥 Forced Proximity
🚫❤️ Forbidden Romance
✨HEA Guaranteed
I was so excited to receive an ARC of It Seemed Like a Good Idea and it absolutely lived up to my expectations. Lauren Blakely is one of those authors I trust completely and once again her writing hit all my favourite notes. Sharp banter, delicious chemistry, satisfying spice and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Ripley and Banks were instantly addictive. The bodyguard trope is already a win for me, but add a small-town lavender farm, an almost one-night stand with unresolved tension and yes, only one bed and I was fully invested. I loved how playful and funny this story felt while still delivering emotional depth and genuine connection. The forced proximity worked beautifully, the chemistry simmered before it ignited and the rom-com energy was spot on throughout.
As the start of a brand new series, this was such a strong, exciting opener and I already can’t wait for what’s next.
Tropes & Themes 🌸🔥
🌿 Small-Town Romance
🖤 Bodyguard Romance
☀️🌧️ Grumpy / Sunshine
🛏️ Only One Bed
🔥 Forced Proximity
🚫❤️ Forbidden Romance
✨HEA Guaranteed
March 12, 2026
The tension, the banter, the suspense, the forbidden romance. I ate up every single second of this story! It was so well done!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Okay so… this was cute. Not life changing, not bad, just a solid “that was fun” kind of read.
The setup honestly hooked me right away. Small town lavender farmer with a twin sister who’s a new movie star. A broody, tattooed bodyguard who also happens to be the guy from a one night stand gone wrong? Yes please. The grumpy/sunshine vibe was there, and I liked the awkward tension when Banks shows up in town and Ripley is forced to deal with him again.
The banter was fun at first, and they definitely had chemistry, but after a while it started to feel a little repetitive. A lot of their connection leaned more physical than emotional, and I kept waiting for that deeper moment where everything really clicks. It never fully got there for me. The “he’s leaving, she’s staying” conflict had potential for angst, but it felt kind of surface level. Even the only one bed scene was cute but predictable.
I did really like the cozy small town vibes, though. The lavender farm setting was adorable and made the whole book feel light and summery. It’s definitely an easy, quick rom com you can breeze through in a day.
This one just felt middle of the road for me. Enjoyable, but not super memorable. If you’re in the mood for something fluffy with a grumpy bodyguard and low stress drama, you’ll probably have a good time. I just prefer a little more depth.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
The setup honestly hooked me right away. Small town lavender farmer with a twin sister who’s a new movie star. A broody, tattooed bodyguard who also happens to be the guy from a one night stand gone wrong? Yes please. The grumpy/sunshine vibe was there, and I liked the awkward tension when Banks shows up in town and Ripley is forced to deal with him again.
The banter was fun at first, and they definitely had chemistry, but after a while it started to feel a little repetitive. A lot of their connection leaned more physical than emotional, and I kept waiting for that deeper moment where everything really clicks. It never fully got there for me. The “he’s leaving, she’s staying” conflict had potential for angst, but it felt kind of surface level. Even the only one bed scene was cute but predictable.
I did really like the cozy small town vibes, though. The lavender farm setting was adorable and made the whole book feel light and summery. It’s definitely an easy, quick rom com you can breeze through in a day.
This one just felt middle of the road for me. Enjoyable, but not super memorable. If you’re in the mood for something fluffy with a grumpy bodyguard and low stress drama, you’ll probably have a good time. I just prefer a little more depth.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
February 18, 2026
Welcome to Darling Springs! I love a quaint small town, filled with quirky shop names and fun side characters…that will maybe become main characters 👀
Banks and Ripley’s story was so dreamy! He’s becomes her bodyguard, but he’s also the man she almost had a one-night-stand with a month ago? The tension writes itself!
I honestly loved the communication between The two of them, they were both so open with each other along the way and it was just refreshing to see.
AND…and….we have a COTTAGE! Cottages are all the rage these days, right? Well this one also happens to only have one bed and we know how I feel about only one bed. Feral. That is how I feel.
And now I’m off to find a lavender sleep mask because Ripley’s farm has inspired me to get all things lavender!
Thank you to Lauren and her team for the early copy! Can’t wait to see where this series takes us next!
Banks and Ripley’s story was so dreamy! He’s becomes her bodyguard, but he’s also the man she almost had a one-night-stand with a month ago? The tension writes itself!
I honestly loved the communication between The two of them, they were both so open with each other along the way and it was just refreshing to see.
AND…and….we have a COTTAGE! Cottages are all the rage these days, right? Well this one also happens to only have one bed and we know how I feel about only one bed. Feral. That is how I feel.
And now I’m off to find a lavender sleep mask because Ripley’s farm has inspired me to get all things lavender!
Thank you to Lauren and her team for the early copy! Can’t wait to see where this series takes us next!
March 5, 2026
I could not put this book down, it was everything I look for in a small town romance with the perfect balance of found family + community feeling, cheesy romance that makes me smile, dialogue that feels authentic and healthy and spicy that had me making sure no one could read over my shoulder 🤣❤️🔥
I absolutely adore Ripley and Banks, their dynamic is one that is a classic grumpy & sunshine but Banks is the kind of grumpy person who is still thoughtful and kind. The Lavender farm was so magical and dreamy, with the added bonus of forced proximity to really ramp up the heat 😉 This is an open door, moderately spicy romance (🔥🔥🔥/5) but I found the author built the emotional connection just as strong as the physical.
I found myself laughing out loud often, grinning like a fool with happiness as I read about these characters falling in love. I normally don't gravitate towards "bodyguard romances" but I didn't find that plot point to be overpowering in this novel.
I highly recommend you add this one to your TBR list! Thank you Cosmo Books for the ARC
I absolutely adore Ripley and Banks, their dynamic is one that is a classic grumpy & sunshine but Banks is the kind of grumpy person who is still thoughtful and kind. The Lavender farm was so magical and dreamy, with the added bonus of forced proximity to really ramp up the heat 😉 This is an open door, moderately spicy romance (🔥🔥🔥/5) but I found the author built the emotional connection just as strong as the physical.
I found myself laughing out loud often, grinning like a fool with happiness as I read about these characters falling in love. I normally don't gravitate towards "bodyguard romances" but I didn't find that plot point to be overpowering in this novel.
I highly recommend you add this one to your TBR list! Thank you Cosmo Books for the ARC
March 3, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
It Seemed Like a Good Idea is the first book in the Darling Springs series. Lauren Blakely delivers a low-angst, cute, small town romance.
Ripley's twin sister is set to film a movie in their small town and has gotten more attention by the paparazzi when it is rumored she is getting involved with her costar. Since Ripley is her twin they also assign her a bodyguard.
Ripley is shocked when her bodyguard ends up being her almost one night stand. At first she gives him a tough time, but Banks quickly explains how he couldn't be with her that night due to his new role as her bodyguard.
Banks and Ripley had great banter and chemistry, but he can't get involved with her. He takes his job seriously and a lot is riding on this job for him and his partner. However, they can't resist each other for long and things heat up in the usual Lauren Blakely fashion.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
🎤Duet Narration by JF Harding and Erin Mallon
JF Harding and Erin Mallon did a fantastic job with the banter, spice, and humorous moments. I always love Lauren Blakely's audiobooks.
Thank you to Lauren Blakely for providing the ALC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
It Seemed Like a Good Idea is the first book in the Darling Springs series. Lauren Blakely delivers a low-angst, cute, small town romance.
Ripley's twin sister is set to film a movie in their small town and has gotten more attention by the paparazzi when it is rumored she is getting involved with her costar. Since Ripley is her twin they also assign her a bodyguard.
Ripley is shocked when her bodyguard ends up being her almost one night stand. At first she gives him a tough time, but Banks quickly explains how he couldn't be with her that night due to his new role as her bodyguard.
Banks and Ripley had great banter and chemistry, but he can't get involved with her. He takes his job seriously and a lot is riding on this job for him and his partner. However, they can't resist each other for long and things heat up in the usual Lauren Blakely fashion.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
🎤Duet Narration by JF Harding and Erin Mallon
JF Harding and Erin Mallon did a fantastic job with the banter, spice, and humorous moments. I always love Lauren Blakely's audiobooks.
Thank you to Lauren Blakely for providing the ALC.
March 11, 2026
really wanted to love this one. The premise sounded fun and promising, and I was excited to dive in—especially as a first book of Lauren Blakely’s work. Unfortunately, after three days of reading, I ended up DNFing at around 180 pages.
The main issue for me was the pacing. The story felt weighed down by a lot of unnecessary details and lengthy scenes that didn’t seem to move the plot forward. I kept waiting for the storyline to really hook me, but it never quite did.
Another challenge was the number of secondary characters. There were quite a few very minor ones introduced, which made things feel a bit confusing at times and pulled my attention away from the central story.
While the blurb suggested a dynamic and engaging romance, the narrative never fully held my interest, and I ultimately found myself struggling to stay invested in the plot.
That said, this may simply be a case of “not the right book for me.” Readers who enjoy slower-paced stories with lots of detail and a wider cast of characters might have a different experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The main issue for me was the pacing. The story felt weighed down by a lot of unnecessary details and lengthy scenes that didn’t seem to move the plot forward. I kept waiting for the storyline to really hook me, but it never quite did.
Another challenge was the number of secondary characters. There were quite a few very minor ones introduced, which made things feel a bit confusing at times and pulled my attention away from the central story.
While the blurb suggested a dynamic and engaging romance, the narrative never fully held my interest, and I ultimately found myself struggling to stay invested in the plot.
That said, this may simply be a case of “not the right book for me.” Readers who enjoy slower-paced stories with lots of detail and a wider cast of characters might have a different experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2026
Ripley's twin sister landed a big movie role that is going to be filmed in their hometown. When all the paparazzi show up, Ripley gets assigned a bodyguard.... who ends up being someone who stood her up during her almost one night stand last month. I love the banter between these two and honestly Banks is a total green flag. He's so protective of her and I love it. Ripley definitely keeps him on his toes! Overall, this was really cute story with a good balance of spice.
🎧Audio:🎧
This was a duet narration by JF Harding & Erin Mallon. JF Harding has easily become a narrator that I absolutely love listening to. The two of them kept me invested in this story. They brought the banter, the tension and the fun to life perfectly.
What to expect:
🥊Bodyguard Romance
🧲Forced Proximity
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🛏️One Bed
🏡Small Town
🎧Audio:🎧
This was a duet narration by JF Harding & Erin Mallon. JF Harding has easily become a narrator that I absolutely love listening to. The two of them kept me invested in this story. They brought the banter, the tension and the fun to life perfectly.
What to expect:
🥊Bodyguard Romance
🧲Forced Proximity
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🛏️One Bed
🏡Small Town
March 7, 2026
I don’t know why she needed a bodyguard but whatever it was good I guess
March 5, 2026
It Seemed Like a Good Idea by Lauren Blakely
Narrated in duet by Erin Mallon and J.F. Harding
RomCom. Stands Alone. First in the Darling Springs Series.
4.25 Stars
Thank you to Lauren Blakely and her team for an early review copy. This post contains affiliate links.
Lauren Blakely has been one of my favorite authors for over ten years. I’ve listened to at least 75 of her books and loved every single one. It Seemed Like a Good Idea is no exception. But it did feel different. I don’t remember many of her stories being set in a small town. Her settings are most often New York City or San Francisco, so this one had a different vibe, and it was fun for a change.
Ripley owns a lavender farm in the small town of Darling Springs. Her twin sister, Haven, is a movie star, and they’re filming Haven’s next movie right there on the farm. Haven has been rumored to be having an affair with her co-star, so paparazzi are stalking her, trying to get photos. Since the twins look exactly alike, the producers hire a bodyguard for Ripley as well as Haven.
But when Ripley’s bodyguard shows up, it’s none other than Banks, the hot guy she met in a bar last month who was supposed to meet her in her hotel room and then ghosted her.
Lauren has never written a character I didn’t like, and I loved both Ripley and Banks. The chemistry leapt off the page, and the banter was top notch. I especially loved how Ripley kept trying to ditch him, and he was always one step ahead. I did find myself looking for more of a suspense element, since that often comes with bodyguard romances. There was some, which isn’t something Lauren includes very often, but it also added to that feeling that this didn’t quite read like her usual style.
It Seemed Like a Good Idea started so strong. The chemistry was electric. Somewhere along the way, though, it felt a little rambly, which I have never experienced in a Lauren Blakely book. Her books are usually a bit shorter than this one, and it felt like some filler slowed the middle down. But I loved the ending, so I’m glad I pushed through that hump.
Lauren is so good at taking common tropes and putting her own spin on them, and this one had tropes galore: twins, bodyguard, forced proximity, small town, only one bed, forbidden romance, and grumpy/sunshine.
Likes:
•Great chemistry.
•Fun banter.
•I loved the twins.
•The way she kept trying to ditch him and he was always one step ahead.
•The DIY sex toys.
•A little kink and dirty talk.
•Of course, an amazing dog.
Dislikes:
•It didn’t fully feel like a Lauren Blakely book. I’m not sure why, but I think the small-town setting versus the cities she normally writes in made it feel different.
•It got a little slow and repetitive in the middle, which has never happened for me in a Lauren Blakely book.
The Narration:
Erin Mallon and J.F. Harding did a fantastic job with this duet narration. They truly embodied the characters and brought them to life. As always with Lauren, the narration was top notch.
The Down & Dirty:
I loved It Seemed Like a Good Idea. It had a ton of fun tropes without feeling cookie cutter. But it didn’t completely feel like Lauren’s usual style. She often writes smart professionals or athletes in city settings, so the small town made it feel a bit more like other small-town romances. I also felt there was some extra filler in the middle that made it longer than necessary.
Still, I loved it. Is it my favorite Lauren Blakely book? No. Would I recommend it? Absolutely.
Rating: 4.25 Stars, 3 Heat, 5 Narration
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March 3, 2026
5 "best kind of secret" stars!
It Seemed Like a Good Idea is the first book in the Darling Springs series and a new favorite. It's a fresh, fun take on so many of my favorite tropes, including forbidden romance, forced proximity, and grumpy/sunshine. Ripley and Banks are so much fun, I couln't help but fall in love with them.
One evening, Ripley meets Banks at a bar and they hit it off immediately. They plan to meet in her room after drinks, but what should be an unforgetable one-night-stand ends up a miss when Banks doesn't show up. It irks her and hurts her but she lets it go and moves on. Much to her surprise and anger, Banks ends up coming to her family's Lavender Farm when her twin sister Haven, an actress, thinks a bodyguard for Ripley is needed while they film her movie and Banks happens to be her bodyguard. Ripley and Banks are thrust together, and even though Ripley tries her best to leave Banks in the dust, he's having none of it and is determined to keep her safe.
These two are wonderful. I loved them individually as we got to know what makes them tick but together they are amazing. Thier banter is fantastic, and they had so much chemistry the first night they met, it is no surpise that they are simply sizzling now. These two fight their attraction for different reasons but the fact that Banks is her bodyguard, he cannot afford to mix business with pleasure for the sake of his security business. Ripley is still hurt that he stood her up but not all is as seems and once they clear the air, it jump starts the electricity pulsing between them. Being forced together heightens the sexual tension until these two combust. And I loved evey bit of it.
The sexy times are smoking hot but its the connection Ripley and Banks share while getting to know each other and understanding each others pasts that really made me love them. They support each other and are there for each other even when they hit some challenges. There is a little bit of drama that is understandable and believable but it doesn't last long and its not just for the sake of drama. It works with the storyline and makes things more real.
I loved the secondary characters and cannot wait for more! From Haven to Banks's partner, Dean, to all of the Darling Springs community, this a a great group of people and am excited to see what happens in Darling Springs next!
I'll note that I also listened to the audiobook while reading along. It has duet narration which my favorite type and it was wonderfully done. The narrators really brought the books to life. I felt their emotion and tension when they were together, and thoroghly enjoyed hearing their banter. I highly recommend the audiobook.
*ARC generously provided by the author*
It Seemed Like a Good Idea is the first book in the Darling Springs series and a new favorite. It's a fresh, fun take on so many of my favorite tropes, including forbidden romance, forced proximity, and grumpy/sunshine. Ripley and Banks are so much fun, I couln't help but fall in love with them.
One evening, Ripley meets Banks at a bar and they hit it off immediately. They plan to meet in her room after drinks, but what should be an unforgetable one-night-stand ends up a miss when Banks doesn't show up. It irks her and hurts her but she lets it go and moves on. Much to her surprise and anger, Banks ends up coming to her family's Lavender Farm when her twin sister Haven, an actress, thinks a bodyguard for Ripley is needed while they film her movie and Banks happens to be her bodyguard. Ripley and Banks are thrust together, and even though Ripley tries her best to leave Banks in the dust, he's having none of it and is determined to keep her safe.
These two are wonderful. I loved them individually as we got to know what makes them tick but together they are amazing. Thier banter is fantastic, and they had so much chemistry the first night they met, it is no surpise that they are simply sizzling now. These two fight their attraction for different reasons but the fact that Banks is her bodyguard, he cannot afford to mix business with pleasure for the sake of his security business. Ripley is still hurt that he stood her up but not all is as seems and once they clear the air, it jump starts the electricity pulsing between them. Being forced together heightens the sexual tension until these two combust. And I loved evey bit of it.
The sexy times are smoking hot but its the connection Ripley and Banks share while getting to know each other and understanding each others pasts that really made me love them. They support each other and are there for each other even when they hit some challenges. There is a little bit of drama that is understandable and believable but it doesn't last long and its not just for the sake of drama. It works with the storyline and makes things more real.
I loved the secondary characters and cannot wait for more! From Haven to Banks's partner, Dean, to all of the Darling Springs community, this a a great group of people and am excited to see what happens in Darling Springs next!
I'll note that I also listened to the audiobook while reading along. It has duet narration which my favorite type and it was wonderfully done. The narrators really brought the books to life. I felt their emotion and tension when they were together, and thoroghly enjoyed hearing their banter. I highly recommend the audiobook.
*ARC generously provided by the author*
March 4, 2026
It's all about the meet-cute for me when it comes to a delectable romcom. And Lauren Blakely delivered in the first book in her all new small town romance series, It Seemed Like A Good Idea.
Ripley and Banks cross paths in a hotel bar, where they have the best banter and obvious chemistry after Banks makes a decision that benefited them both. Just when things are about to go down, Banks gets some news that has him leaving Ripley before they even have a chance. And Ripley is left wondering what the heck happened. But, being the strong and independent woman she is, she gets right back to life on her lavender farm in the small town of Darling Springs, where her twin sister's movie is set to be made. And who shows up, but the man that left her after a few hours of getting to know each other without a reason.
I'm always a fan of small town romances and getting to know all the fun and quirky characters. But what really shined in this story was the obvious chemistry Ripley and Banks have. Right from the meet cute you could feel it, yet I still wondered how that would translate once they got to Darling Springs and everything that came with their whole situation. Because of Banks job, they fight their attraction and get to know each other and what makes them tick. We get to hear about their pasts and how that makes their connection even stronger. And the banter? Banter for days!!
If you're an audiobook listener, you will enjoy the duet narration from Erin Mallon and J.F Harding. They are romcom gold! AND they bring the spice with the touch of emotional in their performances too.
If you're ready for a small town romcom with a little bit of forbidden romance, failed one night (almost) stand, with mistaken identities, and the added drama of a movie being shot in the small town, then you are going to have fun with this one. Cute, fun and flirty with a fierce and independent FMC and a swoony protector MMC.
Ripley and Banks cross paths in a hotel bar, where they have the best banter and obvious chemistry after Banks makes a decision that benefited them both. Just when things are about to go down, Banks gets some news that has him leaving Ripley before they even have a chance. And Ripley is left wondering what the heck happened. But, being the strong and independent woman she is, she gets right back to life on her lavender farm in the small town of Darling Springs, where her twin sister's movie is set to be made. And who shows up, but the man that left her after a few hours of getting to know each other without a reason.
I'm always a fan of small town romances and getting to know all the fun and quirky characters. But what really shined in this story was the obvious chemistry Ripley and Banks have. Right from the meet cute you could feel it, yet I still wondered how that would translate once they got to Darling Springs and everything that came with their whole situation. Because of Banks job, they fight their attraction and get to know each other and what makes them tick. We get to hear about their pasts and how that makes their connection even stronger. And the banter? Banter for days!!
If you're an audiobook listener, you will enjoy the duet narration from Erin Mallon and J.F Harding. They are romcom gold! AND they bring the spice with the touch of emotional in their performances too.
If you're ready for a small town romcom with a little bit of forbidden romance, failed one night (almost) stand, with mistaken identities, and the added drama of a movie being shot in the small town, then you are going to have fun with this one. Cute, fun and flirty with a fierce and independent FMC and a swoony protector MMC.
March 4, 2026
Book Tropes: Grumpy x sunshine, Small-town romance, Bodyguard x client, Forced proximity, Banter + forbidden tension.
Ripley lives in the small-town of Darling Springs. She runs / operates her own flower / lavender farm. She has an identical twin sister, Heaven, who has just recently broken into her acting career. Ripley has tattoo's all over her arms, and her twin Haven has 1 small tattoo, but people still often confuse them when they are together. Now that they are filming in Darling Springs, the paparazzi think it's Heaven they are taking pictures of but it's really Ripley. Haven wants to protect Ripley, so, she has Banks being her security shadow just in case someone tries to do something to Ripley thinking its actually Haven instead. Something Ripley is firmly against, but, she is trying to be accepting of what her sister is offering.
Banks Kendrick, is in the security business, he and his business partner just open their security office a year ago, and are slowly adding on clients. Banks was in the military - Marines. Banks has just gotten the contract from Haven and her film company to work with them on the film in Darling Springs. Banks and Ripley had already met at a hotel bar, nothing happened, but, they've met and Banks does like her. He's also noticed differences between Ripley and Haven, small things people often over look. Banks and Ripley have great banter between them. Ripley doesn't want Banks around, but, Banks is paid to protect her/watch over her. Something she detests.
Will Banks and Ripley be able to be a 'couple' with the film crew around? How many photo's of Ripley with the paparazzi take before they figure out Ripley and Haven are identical twins??
Thank you Lauren Blakely & Good Girls PR for my free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest book review.
Ripley lives in the small-town of Darling Springs. She runs / operates her own flower / lavender farm. She has an identical twin sister, Heaven, who has just recently broken into her acting career. Ripley has tattoo's all over her arms, and her twin Haven has 1 small tattoo, but people still often confuse them when they are together. Now that they are filming in Darling Springs, the paparazzi think it's Heaven they are taking pictures of but it's really Ripley. Haven wants to protect Ripley, so, she has Banks being her security shadow just in case someone tries to do something to Ripley thinking its actually Haven instead. Something Ripley is firmly against, but, she is trying to be accepting of what her sister is offering.
Banks Kendrick, is in the security business, he and his business partner just open their security office a year ago, and are slowly adding on clients. Banks was in the military - Marines. Banks has just gotten the contract from Haven and her film company to work with them on the film in Darling Springs. Banks and Ripley had already met at a hotel bar, nothing happened, but, they've met and Banks does like her. He's also noticed differences between Ripley and Haven, small things people often over look. Banks and Ripley have great banter between them. Ripley doesn't want Banks around, but, Banks is paid to protect her/watch over her. Something she detests.
Will Banks and Ripley be able to be a 'couple' with the film crew around? How many photo's of Ripley with the paparazzi take before they figure out Ripley and Haven are identical twins??
Thank you Lauren Blakely & Good Girls PR for my free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest book review.
March 5, 2026
Just finished reading an advanced copy of a book that was just released on March 3rd called, It Seemed Like a Good Idea. This is about a woman named Ripley, who runs a lavender farm in the small town of Darling Springs. Her twin sister is an actress and is the star of a new movie, that's being filmed in their hometown. Because of all the people and paparazzi coming into town during the movie being filmed and the fact that they're twins, her sister says Ripley needs a bodyguard. When the bodyguard shows up, it's none other than Banks, the man Ripley met a month ago and almost spent the night with, before he ran out on her with no explanation.
This was such a fantastic small town romcom! I loved everything about this story; the lavender farm setting and the movie being filmed in their hometown storyline with her twin as the star, it was such a fun and refreshing addition to go with the bodyguard romance storyline. I loved the banter, the chemistry, and the forbidden romance between Ripley and Banks. This book was absolutely perfect for springtime! I could picture the beautiful lavender farm, the charming small town, and these fantastic characters so easily. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and I am really looking forward to more of this small town and these characters in the next books in this series! 💜📚
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for this ARC of It Seemed Like a Good Idea, in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a fantastic small town romcom! I loved everything about this story; the lavender farm setting and the movie being filmed in their hometown storyline with her twin as the star, it was such a fun and refreshing addition to go with the bodyguard romance storyline. I loved the banter, the chemistry, and the forbidden romance between Ripley and Banks. This book was absolutely perfect for springtime! I could picture the beautiful lavender farm, the charming small town, and these fantastic characters so easily. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and I am really looking forward to more of this small town and these characters in the next books in this series! 💜📚
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for this ARC of It Seemed Like a Good Idea, in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I'm not supposed to fall in love. I'm supposed to protect you."
Ripley and Banks are so much fun!
She's the smart-mouthed, small town farmer. Her identical twin sister is a rising star. He's a gruff, no-nonsense bodyguard, with an interesting origami habit.
There's a one night stand that never quite happened. A case of mistaken identity. Forced proximity... only one bed. All of it leading to plenty of spicy shenanigans.
On top of the clever banter that had me laughing continuously, there's also a lot of heart and depth here. Just a really good, hit you in the chest kind of love story.
This is actually the first book of Lauren Blakely's that I have read. The fault here is mine. I've been missing out. She knows what she's doing!
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spice)
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Small town romance
- Forced proximity
- Only one bed
- Forbidden romance
It Seemed Like a Good Idea will be released on March 3.
Thank you to Lauren Blakely and Good Girls PR for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Ripley and Banks are so much fun!
She's the smart-mouthed, small town farmer. Her identical twin sister is a rising star. He's a gruff, no-nonsense bodyguard, with an interesting origami habit.
There's a one night stand that never quite happened. A case of mistaken identity. Forced proximity... only one bed. All of it leading to plenty of spicy shenanigans.
On top of the clever banter that had me laughing continuously, there's also a lot of heart and depth here. Just a really good, hit you in the chest kind of love story.
This is actually the first book of Lauren Blakely's that I have read. The fault here is mine. I've been missing out. She knows what she's doing!
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spice)
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Small town romance
- Forced proximity
- Only one bed
- Forbidden romance
It Seemed Like a Good Idea will be released on March 3.
Thank you to Lauren Blakely and Good Girls PR for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 18, 2026
It Seemed Like a Good Idea was exactly the kind of rom-com I love to fall into. Small town vibes and the lavender farm setting made me want to move immediately and the grumpy bodyguard who absolutely does not stand a chance against the fiesty, stubborn heroine always hits for me. Ripley was such a fun character. She’s a little chaotic but fiercely loyal, and completely unwilling to let Banks get away with his broody, mysterious act after ghosting her. Watching her give him a hard time while he tried very seriously to remain professional had me laughing more than once. The tension between them was immediate and their banter made the whole book feel playful and addictive.
Banks ended up being exactly the kind of hero I love too. Protective and definitely a little intense but clearly trying to keep his walls up while simultaneously falling harder by the second. The forced proximity situation and all the “we definitely shouldn’t be doing this” moments made their chemistry even better. I also loved the cozy small town energy and Ripley’s lavender farm, which added such a charming backdrop to all the chaos. This one was funny, flirty, and just a really good time from start to finish.
Banks ended up being exactly the kind of hero I love too. Protective and definitely a little intense but clearly trying to keep his walls up while simultaneously falling harder by the second. The forced proximity situation and all the “we definitely shouldn’t be doing this” moments made their chemistry even better. I also loved the cozy small town energy and Ripley’s lavender farm, which added such a charming backdrop to all the chaos. This one was funny, flirty, and just a really good time from start to finish.
February 1, 2026
⭐ 3.75 Stars | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5 Spice)
It Seemed Like a Good Idea by Lauren Blakely was such a fun, feel-good small-town romance and the perfect palate cleanser after heavier reads.
This is a bodyguard romance with insta-love, and while things move fast, I honestly didn’t mind—it fit the light, cozy vibe of the story. Ripley was a great FMC: confident, likable, and easy to root for. Banks had more depth than I expected, and I really enjoyed getting to know him beyond the “protective hero” role.
The plot was entertaining and kept me engaged, but I do wish the yearning had been stronger. I wanted more tension and slow-burn moments before they gave in to their feelings. The family challenges and inner turmoil Banks faced were interesting, and I would’ve loved for those to be explored on a deeper level.
Overall, this was a sweet, spicy, easy read that left me smiling. If you’re looking for a light, romantic escape with small-town charm and protective bodyguard vibes, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cosmo Reads for the ARC!
It Seemed Like a Good Idea by Lauren Blakely was such a fun, feel-good small-town romance and the perfect palate cleanser after heavier reads.
This is a bodyguard romance with insta-love, and while things move fast, I honestly didn’t mind—it fit the light, cozy vibe of the story. Ripley was a great FMC: confident, likable, and easy to root for. Banks had more depth than I expected, and I really enjoyed getting to know him beyond the “protective hero” role.
The plot was entertaining and kept me engaged, but I do wish the yearning had been stronger. I wanted more tension and slow-burn moments before they gave in to their feelings. The family challenges and inner turmoil Banks faced were interesting, and I would’ve loved for those to be explored on a deeper level.
Overall, this was a sweet, spicy, easy read that left me smiling. If you’re looking for a light, romantic escape with small-town charm and protective bodyguard vibes, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cosmo Reads for the ARC!
December 22, 2025
Title: It Seemed Like a Good Idea
Author: Lauren Blakely
Series: Darling Springs 1
What to expect:
*Bodyguard MMC
*Forced proximity
*Small town romance
A cute romcom that started with an almost one night stand! I enjoyed the bodyguard storyline and the “bad guy” surprised me, I forgot the character even existed in the book.
Very well written and highly recommended. Read it for the Grandma and adorable dog!
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no jealousy. A slight third act separation, no others during the break.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cosmo Reads for the opportunity to read and review this title!
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Ripley (FMC) & Banks (MMC)
Author: Lauren Blakely
Series: Darling Springs 1
What to expect:
*Bodyguard MMC
*Forced proximity
*Small town romance
A cute romcom that started with an almost one night stand! I enjoyed the bodyguard storyline and the “bad guy” surprised me, I forgot the character even existed in the book.
Very well written and highly recommended. Read it for the Grandma and adorable dog!
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no jealousy. A slight third act separation, no others during the break.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cosmo Reads for the opportunity to read and review this title!
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Ripley (FMC) & Banks (MMC)
February 27, 2026
Thank you to Cosmo Reads and NetGalley for an ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.
I have loved Lauren Blakely’s hockey books, so I was so excited to read her new small town romance. The fictional town of Darling Springs was so dreamy and picturesque. And this story was full of Lauren’s signature spice!! Riley and Sawyer were such a fun couple to watch fall for each other especially when almost everything they did around town turned into an adventure. I loved the Body Guard falling for his client trope, I just wish we could have got to see more of them actually falling for each other (like more of a build up) because it did feel very instant.
But overall a fun series from Lauren that I think the romance girlies will love and enjoy!!
I have loved Lauren Blakely’s hockey books, so I was so excited to read her new small town romance. The fictional town of Darling Springs was so dreamy and picturesque. And this story was full of Lauren’s signature spice!! Riley and Sawyer were such a fun couple to watch fall for each other especially when almost everything they did around town turned into an adventure. I loved the Body Guard falling for his client trope, I just wish we could have got to see more of them actually falling for each other (like more of a build up) because it did feel very instant.
But overall a fun series from Lauren that I think the romance girlies will love and enjoy!!
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