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From Austin, with Love #1
Accidentally Viral: A Secret CEO, Workplace Romance
She’s having the best first date of her life with him, and he’s falling hard for her authenticity. The only problem? They have no clue that she works for him.
Emma McCoy is done with corporate life, and she's been saying so online, one viral takedown at a time. But after a brutal week in tech, a spontaneous night out at an Austin wine bar leads to something she didn't see coming: a charming stranger, electric chemistry, and a connection that feels genuine.
That stranger is Michael Bass, billionaire heir, overwhelmed CEO, and a man desperate to escape the weight of his family's empire for just one weekend. By Monday morning, they're both hopeful that this is the start of something real.
When Emma's anonymous workplace rants accidentally go viral, the fallout is swift and messy. Suddenly, everything they felt is tangled up in power, pride, and impossible choices. Michael must decide how much he's willing to risk for a woman he can't forget. Emma must decide whether the man she fell for was ever real.
Because sometimes the person who understands you best is also the one who can hurt you the most.
Accidentally Viral is a funny and steamy contemporary workplace romance featuring:
• hidden identity / secret identity
• billionaire CEO romance
• workplace romance
• opposites attract
• he falls first
• mutual pining
• secret dating
• witty banter
• 2000s rom-com vibes
• Austin, Texas setting
Perfect for readers who love emotional contemporary romance with sharp humor, sizzling chemistry, and witty banter. Fans of Meghan Quinn, Amy Daws, and the workplace romance vibes of Younger will feel right at home.
Emma McCoy is done with corporate life, and she's been saying so online, one viral takedown at a time. But after a brutal week in tech, a spontaneous night out at an Austin wine bar leads to something she didn't see coming: a charming stranger, electric chemistry, and a connection that feels genuine.
That stranger is Michael Bass, billionaire heir, overwhelmed CEO, and a man desperate to escape the weight of his family's empire for just one weekend. By Monday morning, they're both hopeful that this is the start of something real.
When Emma's anonymous workplace rants accidentally go viral, the fallout is swift and messy. Suddenly, everything they felt is tangled up in power, pride, and impossible choices. Michael must decide how much he's willing to risk for a woman he can't forget. Emma must decide whether the man she fell for was ever real.
Because sometimes the person who understands you best is also the one who can hurt you the most.
Accidentally Viral is a funny and steamy contemporary workplace romance featuring:
• hidden identity / secret identity
• billionaire CEO romance
• workplace romance
• opposites attract
• he falls first
• mutual pining
• secret dating
• witty banter
• 2000s rom-com vibes
• Austin, Texas setting
Perfect for readers who love emotional contemporary romance with sharp humor, sizzling chemistry, and witty banter. Fans of Meghan Quinn, Amy Daws, and the workplace romance vibes of Younger will feel right at home.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2026
About the author
Carolyn Hawkins
2 books25 followersCarolyn Hawkins writes contemporary romances packed with big laughs, plenty of spice, and characters who feel like your best friends.
Armed with a BS in Journalism & Literature, Carolyn spent years hustling through corporate America before a burnout era sent her chasing the lifelong dream she’d put on pause. Her debut series, From Austin, with Love, was born along the way. As a child, she loved making her Barbies kiss and get married, so, really, writing romance is just inner-child work.
When she’s not drafting meet-cutes or figuring out how to weave bits of Austin into her stories, she can usually be found spending time with friends, watching college football or F1 with her husband, and trying to convince him that rescuing one more four-legged creature is a very good idea.
Armed with a BS in Journalism & Literature, Carolyn spent years hustling through corporate America before a burnout era sent her chasing the lifelong dream she’d put on pause. Her debut series, From Austin, with Love, was born along the way. As a child, she loved making her Barbies kiss and get married, so, really, writing romance is just inner-child work.
When she’s not drafting meet-cutes or figuring out how to weave bits of Austin into her stories, she can usually be found spending time with friends, watching college football or F1 with her husband, and trying to convince him that rescuing one more four-legged creature is a very good idea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
March 24, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Accidentally Viral
I have no idea where this book has been hiding, but I absolutely ate this up.
I originally found this author on TikTok and honestly expected this to be a cute, quick contemporary workplace romance. And yes—it is that… but it’s also so much more. The comedy in this book is top-notch. I love a good rom-com and this one had me genuinely cackling.
Emma, our FMC, felt incredibly relatable. She’s a people pleaser who avoids conflict and keeps her head down at a job she absolutely hates. She’s stuck in that mindset of “what’s the point of speaking up?” because nothing ever changes. I think a lot of us have been there. She even has those daydream moments where she imagines quitting her job with a dramatic, mic-drop speech to her terrible boss—something I think many of us have fantasized about at least once.
Then there’s Michael, our MMC, and I adored him. He’s sweet, thoughtful, protective, and just genuinely wants to live a life that makes him happy instead of following the carefully planned path that’s been laid out for him since birth. The hidden identity trope adds such a fun layer to their relationship, and watching him choose Emma—and himself—was incredibly satisfying.
This book flows so smoothly. The pacing is great, the banter is sharp, and the chemistry between Emma and Michael feels natural and fun. It’s the kind of romance that balances humor, heart, and swoony moments perfectly.
And the fact that this is the author’s debut novel?? Absolutely wild. If this is what they’re delivering with their first book, I cannot wait to see what comes next.
If you love rom-coms, workplace romance, great banter, and a hidden identity trope, this one is definitely worth picking up.
I have no idea where this book has been hiding, but I absolutely ate this up.
I originally found this author on TikTok and honestly expected this to be a cute, quick contemporary workplace romance. And yes—it is that… but it’s also so much more. The comedy in this book is top-notch. I love a good rom-com and this one had me genuinely cackling.
Emma, our FMC, felt incredibly relatable. She’s a people pleaser who avoids conflict and keeps her head down at a job she absolutely hates. She’s stuck in that mindset of “what’s the point of speaking up?” because nothing ever changes. I think a lot of us have been there. She even has those daydream moments where she imagines quitting her job with a dramatic, mic-drop speech to her terrible boss—something I think many of us have fantasized about at least once.
Then there’s Michael, our MMC, and I adored him. He’s sweet, thoughtful, protective, and just genuinely wants to live a life that makes him happy instead of following the carefully planned path that’s been laid out for him since birth. The hidden identity trope adds such a fun layer to their relationship, and watching him choose Emma—and himself—was incredibly satisfying.
This book flows so smoothly. The pacing is great, the banter is sharp, and the chemistry between Emma and Michael feels natural and fun. It’s the kind of romance that balances humor, heart, and swoony moments perfectly.
And the fact that this is the author’s debut novel?? Absolutely wild. If this is what they’re delivering with their first book, I cannot wait to see what comes next.
If you love rom-coms, workplace romance, great banter, and a hidden identity trope, this one is definitely worth picking up.
January 28, 2026
I'm an avid romance reader - with favorite authors, genres, and tropes. And while this book is from a brand new author, you'd never know! This book can easily be added to anyone's TBR list, to a romance recommendation table at a bookstore, and to some fun reels from all of our favorite book accounts on the socials! Great FMC - loved her story, loved her sass, loved her vulnerability. Perfect MMC - with swoon worthy lines, super likable personality, and the ability to learn and change when necessary. Growth from both - we love to see it! 👏🏻
I was reading this book while getting steps in and it was so easy to keep walking and reading because I was SO into the storyline! I did, however, need to sit down for those spicy scenes. They were VERY good! 🌶️🌶️
I loved the dialog between characters in this book, as well as the inner monologues for the main characters. I also loved that when texting, emojis were used. Fun to see in a book!
Some fun references to current times, as well as some really funny quips! I definitely laughed out loud a few times!
The book ended but I needed more - not because the story felt incomplete, but because I am interested in this being a series!
Congratulations on your first book, Carolyn! Can't wait for the next!
I was reading this book while getting steps in and it was so easy to keep walking and reading because I was SO into the storyline! I did, however, need to sit down for those spicy scenes. They were VERY good! 🌶️🌶️
I loved the dialog between characters in this book, as well as the inner monologues for the main characters. I also loved that when texting, emojis were used. Fun to see in a book!
Some fun references to current times, as well as some really funny quips! I definitely laughed out loud a few times!
The book ended but I needed more - not because the story felt incomplete, but because I am interested in this being a series!
Congratulations on your first book, Carolyn! Can't wait for the next!
February 21, 2026
The second Carolyn Hawkins started talking about Accidentally Viral, I KNEW I was about to have a good time. Then I filled out her hilariously unhinged (in the best way) Google form to be part of her reader team and thought, “Oh yeah. This book is about to hit.”
And let me tell you… it absolutely did.
I genuinely cannot find a single plot hole. The plot? Plotting. Every thread felt intentional. Every moment moved the story forward. Nothing felt lazy or thrown in for drama. It was tight, smart, and ridiculously fun.
And the spice? ELITE. 🌶️
Not just thrown in for shock value — it made sense. It enhanced the story. It matched the emotional build. The chemistry between these two was electric, but what I loved most was that their connection actually grew. Yes, things happened quickly… but it felt natural. Organic. Earned.
You know when a book just feels like the author knew exactly what she was doing the entire time? That’s this one.
Fun, sharp, spicy, zero plot holes, and a romance that had me grinning like an idiot. I had high expectations going in… and somehow they were still exceeded.
If you’re thinking about reading this? Just do it.
And let me tell you… it absolutely did.
I genuinely cannot find a single plot hole. The plot? Plotting. Every thread felt intentional. Every moment moved the story forward. Nothing felt lazy or thrown in for drama. It was tight, smart, and ridiculously fun.
And the spice? ELITE. 🌶️
Not just thrown in for shock value — it made sense. It enhanced the story. It matched the emotional build. The chemistry between these two was electric, but what I loved most was that their connection actually grew. Yes, things happened quickly… but it felt natural. Organic. Earned.
You know when a book just feels like the author knew exactly what she was doing the entire time? That’s this one.
Fun, sharp, spicy, zero plot holes, and a romance that had me grinning like an idiot. I had high expectations going in… and somehow they were still exceeded.
If you’re thinking about reading this? Just do it.
May 9, 2026
4.5⭐️’s
I genuinely cannot stress how much fun this book was!!! ESPECIALLY as a native Texan. It was deliciously messy and felt like a fresh take on the secret CEO trope.
The characters (from the mc’s to the friends, families and the coworkers in between) were all so well developed, this didn’t feel like a debut novel. The dual pov was fantastic and you really felt for both characters.
AND THE SPICE??? Amazing incredible hot smash double smash.
I genuinely didn’t know how the book was going to end and all the more pleased with what I didn’t see coming.
Absolutely loved and cannot WAIT for Nate & Madi’s story!!!
I genuinely cannot stress how much fun this book was!!! ESPECIALLY as a native Texan. It was deliciously messy and felt like a fresh take on the secret CEO trope.
The characters (from the mc’s to the friends, families and the coworkers in between) were all so well developed, this didn’t feel like a debut novel. The dual pov was fantastic and you really felt for both characters.
AND THE SPICE??? Amazing incredible hot smash double smash.
I genuinely didn’t know how the book was going to end and all the more pleased with what I didn’t see coming.
Absolutely loved and cannot WAIT for Nate & Madi’s story!!!
February 18, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book! It was incredibly well written and hooked me from the very first page. If I hadn’t known this was a debut author, I never would have guessed — the writing felt so polished and confident. I can’t wait to read more from her!
February 5, 2026
4 stars: This book was very face paced and really good overall! I loved how it was set in Austin and since I am living here now it was fun to see the little details on Austin in the book. Emma and Michael fell hard and fast for each other, I liked how Emma got Michael to open up more and Michael got Emma to stand up for herself. I would definitely recommend this book to others for a quick read and especially if you live or have lived in Austin!
March 10, 2026
"Accidentally Viral" by Carolyn Hawkins is an absolute gem! The main female character is both sassy and vulnerable, making her instantly relatable and fun to root for. The male lead brings dreamy confidence that has you swooning with every interaction.
The inner monologues are hilarious and really capture their chemistry, while the humor throughout had me laughing out loud. And oh my, the spice? It’s definitely spicy enough to keep things exciting! 🌶️🌶️
If you're looking for a fun, feel-good romance packed with relatable characters and entertaining moments, this book is a must-read! Grab it, find a comfy spot, and enjoy the delightful ride!
The inner monologues are hilarious and really capture their chemistry, while the humor throughout had me laughing out loud. And oh my, the spice? It’s definitely spicy enough to keep things exciting! 🌶️🌶️
If you're looking for a fun, feel-good romance packed with relatable characters and entertaining moments, this book is a must-read! Grab it, find a comfy spot, and enjoy the delightful ride!
April 4, 2026
Loved!!! This was sweet and spicy. The humor was great and if you live in Austin all the Easter eggs are so wonderful. Kicking my feet and simultaneously drooling. I can’t wait for more books by this author!!!
Michael KEEP HER NAME OUT OF YOUR FUCKING MOUTH Bass 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️❤️❤️
Michael KEEP HER NAME OUT OF YOUR FUCKING MOUTH Bass 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️❤️❤️
April 24, 2026
Accidentally Viral is a super fun, sweet, spicy and utterly addictive workplace romance. Watch out everyone this indie author is coming full force! This does not read like a debut, it was so well written, so easy to get lost in, trust me once you start this one you will not be able to put it down. It was such a fast read, the dialogues kept me invested and the inner monologues were perfect, never felt too lengthy or daunting and I think that's important. The story flows perfectly, making me laugh, swoon, kick my feet and fan myself.
Emma was a fantastic FMC as much as she had sass. She was also super vulnerable, she felt relatable and I loved her story. Michael was so swoony, he was so sweet and just did everything for his woman. They both experienced amazing growth throughout the book which brings them back together and I absolutely loved it. Their banter was so much fun, their chemistry was on fire and their love story was beautiful. The spice was written so damn well, ouff ! I loved the side characters as well and the way I can't wait for Nate and Madi’s story, I know it'll be absolutely insane !!
Overall, this is now one of my new favorite romcoms, a stunning debut that deserves so much hype. Can't wait to see what you pen next Carolyn, because this was fabulous !
✨ Thank you to @carolynhawkins for my #gifted copy.
Emma was a fantastic FMC as much as she had sass. She was also super vulnerable, she felt relatable and I loved her story. Michael was so swoony, he was so sweet and just did everything for his woman. They both experienced amazing growth throughout the book which brings them back together and I absolutely loved it. Their banter was so much fun, their chemistry was on fire and their love story was beautiful. The spice was written so damn well, ouff ! I loved the side characters as well and the way I can't wait for Nate and Madi’s story, I know it'll be absolutely insane !!
Overall, this is now one of my new favorite romcoms, a stunning debut that deserves so much hype. Can't wait to see what you pen next Carolyn, because this was fabulous !
✨ Thank you to @carolynhawkins for my #gifted copy.
March 31, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I can’t believe this was a debut! As a native Texan with family in Austin, I absolutely LOVED the Austin setting of this one. Emma, our FMC, low key hates her job and corporate life in general. She’s also had some bad dating experiences. When she meets a super hot guy in a bar, Michael, they are both enamored. They have a whirlwind weekend seeing Austin and having a wonderful experience! … until some drama unfolds. Michael is the billionaire ceo of her company and it severely complicates their budding, whirlwind romance.
I was shocked at the emotions Carolyn was able to make me feel during this drama. I was crying for both characters at points of the book and then swooning later. I was so impressed by this one and I’m so glad I read it!
Thank you so much to Carolyn for the bookmail/PR copy! I’m happy I have a shelf trophy of this one!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I can’t believe this was a debut! As a native Texan with family in Austin, I absolutely LOVED the Austin setting of this one. Emma, our FMC, low key hates her job and corporate life in general. She’s also had some bad dating experiences. When she meets a super hot guy in a bar, Michael, they are both enamored. They have a whirlwind weekend seeing Austin and having a wonderful experience! … until some drama unfolds. Michael is the billionaire ceo of her company and it severely complicates their budding, whirlwind romance.
I was shocked at the emotions Carolyn was able to make me feel during this drama. I was crying for both characters at points of the book and then swooning later. I was so impressed by this one and I’m so glad I read it!
Thank you so much to Carolyn for the bookmail/PR copy! I’m happy I have a shelf trophy of this one!
June 9, 2026
Such a fabulous book that I could not put down! I felt like I was in Austin, TX which was so fun. The characters were wonderfully flawed and beautiful. Definitely a page turner. The spice was perfection.
Review of advance copy
I love this book! She's sassy, he's focused. Emma and Michael bring out the best in each other. It was hard to tear myself away from their chemistry. They want the best for each other, yet have their own amazing people to help them realize they don't have to sacrifice everything to be together.
January 25, 2026
I ate this book up! The FMC, Emma is hilarious, relatable and sort of a grumpy book girlfriend in the beginning which was fun. Michael was the ideal book boyfriend, if you ask me. So much character growth in one book. The fact that the reader knew what was coming made me so antsy to see how this all turned out. The love letter to Austin that is this book made me want to go back after living there so bad! I read this book in a week and a half and as a mom that has never happened before. The humor, the spice, the characters were all chefs kiss! So long as Carolyn Hawkins is writing books, I’ll be reading them!
February 11, 2026
This wonderful debut was so much fun to read! Our two star-crossed lovers, Emma and Michael had me swooning and rooting for them throughout a rollercoaster of laughter, frustration, and giddiness. I enjoyed being along for the ride as they navigated the complexities of coming from very different backgrounds and the juxtaposition of their own family dynamics to help each other grow and overcome flaws.
I was so entertained with plenty of laugh out loud moments, interesting side characters,and relatable workplace drama and I loved the creative social media element. The setting alone was enough to suck me in from the start, with the quirky Austin-ness of it all. I felt like I was getting a tour of the coolest city throughout the whole novel.
Funny, sweet, and spicy- it was a great read. Can’t wait to see what’s next from this author!
April 28, 2026
I found this on TikTok and wow… booktok actually did its thing with this one.
I loved it. It’s such a sweet, feel-good romance that’s just easy to get into and enjoy. The kind of book you fly through and don’t even realize how fast you’re reading.
Super cute, very romantic, and just a good time overall.
I loved it. It’s such a sweet, feel-good romance that’s just easy to get into and enjoy. The kind of book you fly through and don’t even realize how fast you’re reading.
Super cute, very romantic, and just a good time overall.
January 28, 2026
Such a fun book to get lost in! The humor landed and the spice was just right. Michael and Emma are both really lovable and really felt real to me. The setting being in Austin is so fun too! I flew through this one and already want more.😍
May 14, 2026
4.5 ⭐️!!!! Carolyn Hawkins… are you sure this is a debut novel? I could not freaking put this thing down.
Accidentally Viral is a dual POV romcom where our two main characters, Emma and Michael, hit it off after a night out—only to realize they work in the same building. The catch? Emma has mentally checked out of her job and is nowhere near careful about what she puts on the internet… and before she knows it, she accidentally goes viral.
This one just worked for me. The dramatic irony—what the reader knows versus what the characters don’t—gets me every single time. I also saw so much of myself in Emma: a 20-something trying to figure life out, with a love for creating content that felt very me-coded.
That said, while I loved watching her growth, the relationship with Michael felt slightlyyyy rushed (for my taste). Still, both characters felt refreshingly adult. They don’t always get it right, but they move through challenges in a way that feels grounded—they surround themselves with the right people and handle negativity with intention, which I really appreciated.
As Carolyn touches on, there are moments where you just have to believe in a little “romance magic.” Things can feel a bit too neatly wrapped, and at times both characters handle situations almost too perfectly—but honestly, it still works. And considering these are fully formed adults, I’ll take that over unnecessary chaos any day.
The story wraps up nicely, but I’m definitely left wanting more. I need answers, I need updates, I need something. I’ll absolutely be keeping an eye out for whatever Carolyn Hawkins does next.
*received a copy from the author - thank you!*
- changed from 4 to 5 stars 😌
Accidentally Viral is a dual POV romcom where our two main characters, Emma and Michael, hit it off after a night out—only to realize they work in the same building. The catch? Emma has mentally checked out of her job and is nowhere near careful about what she puts on the internet… and before she knows it, she accidentally goes viral.
This one just worked for me. The dramatic irony—what the reader knows versus what the characters don’t—gets me every single time. I also saw so much of myself in Emma: a 20-something trying to figure life out, with a love for creating content that felt very me-coded.
That said, while I loved watching her growth, the relationship with Michael felt slightlyyyy rushed (for my taste). Still, both characters felt refreshingly adult. They don’t always get it right, but they move through challenges in a way that feels grounded—they surround themselves with the right people and handle negativity with intention, which I really appreciated.
As Carolyn touches on, there are moments where you just have to believe in a little “romance magic.” Things can feel a bit too neatly wrapped, and at times both characters handle situations almost too perfectly—but honestly, it still works. And considering these are fully formed adults, I’ll take that over unnecessary chaos any day.
The story wraps up nicely, but I’m definitely left wanting more. I need answers, I need updates, I need something. I’ll absolutely be keeping an eye out for whatever Carolyn Hawkins does next.
*received a copy from the author - thank you!*
- changed from 4 to 5 stars 😌
Review of advance copy received from Author
Heartfelt, smart and funny, Accidentally Viral had me hooked from the very first page! Michael and Emma are so loveable, I was rooting for them all the way. I absolutely devoured this book and can't wait to see what comes next for these spicy Austinites!
May 19, 2026
This book was so much fun. Debut author that I hope continues to release stuff.
May 6, 2026
ACCIDENTALLY VIRAL | ★★★★★ | KINDLE
emma mccoy hates her job. she doesn’t feel like anything is fulfilling her but at least the dread can turn into something hilarious as she uses real life events as content for her tiktok. she isn’t trying to go viral, just blow off steam from an environment that makes her feel less than she should.
michael bass is about to take over his father’s company — bass industries — does he want to? not particularly, but he knows the job, what his expectations are and he was practically trained for it his whole life.
but when emma and michael meet unintentionally at a wine bar. they can’t seem to deny a chemistry forming between them. but, there are no exchanges in the world of work. both want to keep under wraps what they do, but what happens when their undeniable attraction leads to a weekend of pure bliss to “oh my god, he’s my ceo and he’s firing me.”
carolyn hawkins reached out to me about sending me a copy of her book and of course i said YES! after all of my friends who had been reading it had talked it up, i needed to know what this book entailed. and oh my gosh. obsessed? an understatement. a debut novel? never would have guessed. hooked from the start? absolutely.
needless to say, this book gave me everything and more. the characters, their pining, the banter, everything was so polished. everything connected and worked as the story progressed. it felt natural. it felt real. everything that happened fanned out exactly as it needed to, two people who are meant to stay away from one another and yet can’t because they are undeniably falling in love — but it wasn’t instant. yes, attraction was there but there was realness in wanting to deepen their connection, get to know each other under the layers of titles and social media expectations. i loved the way it gave major “the office” vibes — there was a point where i really said, dwight is that you?
if you need a steamy, but a story that connects you in the worlds between social media and reality, please i beg read this book.
emma mccoy hates her job. she doesn’t feel like anything is fulfilling her but at least the dread can turn into something hilarious as she uses real life events as content for her tiktok. she isn’t trying to go viral, just blow off steam from an environment that makes her feel less than she should.
michael bass is about to take over his father’s company — bass industries — does he want to? not particularly, but he knows the job, what his expectations are and he was practically trained for it his whole life.
but when emma and michael meet unintentionally at a wine bar. they can’t seem to deny a chemistry forming between them. but, there are no exchanges in the world of work. both want to keep under wraps what they do, but what happens when their undeniable attraction leads to a weekend of pure bliss to “oh my god, he’s my ceo and he’s firing me.”
carolyn hawkins reached out to me about sending me a copy of her book and of course i said YES! after all of my friends who had been reading it had talked it up, i needed to know what this book entailed. and oh my gosh. obsessed? an understatement. a debut novel? never would have guessed. hooked from the start? absolutely.
needless to say, this book gave me everything and more. the characters, their pining, the banter, everything was so polished. everything connected and worked as the story progressed. it felt natural. it felt real. everything that happened fanned out exactly as it needed to, two people who are meant to stay away from one another and yet can’t because they are undeniably falling in love — but it wasn’t instant. yes, attraction was there but there was realness in wanting to deepen their connection, get to know each other under the layers of titles and social media expectations. i loved the way it gave major “the office” vibes — there was a point where i really said, dwight is that you?
if you need a steamy, but a story that connects you in the worlds between social media and reality, please i beg read this book.
April 16, 2026
Accidentally Viral was the funniest Rom-Com i’ve read all year hands down. The banter in this was absolutely hilarious and actually had me laughing out loud. the romance was cute and the spice was HOT!!! Oh and it takes place in ATX plzzzzz i’m obsessed.
Emma McCoy is our FMC. She is a totally relatable girl who works a corporate job that she lowkey hates. It’s sucking the life out of her!! The only thing that’s helping her get through her days is her best friend Ava and her TikTok account. She may be scared her big mouth will never allow her to find a deep meaningful relationship, but that doesn’t stop her from being quick witted and totally beautiful.
Michael Bass is our MMC. He is the newly appointed CEO of his father’s billion dollar company and is drowning under pressure. His dating life is based on what pretty girl his father throws at him. He’s charming in looks AND in the bank account.
One crazy fun weekend together leaves them craving one another. There is still SO MUCH for them to learn about each other what could possibly get in there way???
Emma McCoy is our FMC. She is a totally relatable girl who works a corporate job that she lowkey hates. It’s sucking the life out of her!! The only thing that’s helping her get through her days is her best friend Ava and her TikTok account. She may be scared her big mouth will never allow her to find a deep meaningful relationship, but that doesn’t stop her from being quick witted and totally beautiful.
Michael Bass is our MMC. He is the newly appointed CEO of his father’s billion dollar company and is drowning under pressure. His dating life is based on what pretty girl his father throws at him. He’s charming in looks AND in the bank account.
One crazy fun weekend together leaves them craving one another. There is still SO MUCH for them to learn about each other what could possibly get in there way???
June 10, 2026
With a debut this strong, I'm calling it: Carolyn Hawkins is America's next Rom-Com Queen. In a few years, we'll see her books in airport bookstores. For now? We'll be the cool kids who found her first.
On to the book – it's funny! I laughed out loud and LOVED the sassy grandma. It's also an anti-billionaire, billionaire romance which is such a breath of fresh air. I (like many of us) have suffered through corporate hellscapes, and this book dives deeper to touch upon themes of corporate burnout and what it means to live a life that actually lights us up. And the steamy scenes were *fans self* both sexy *and* sensual. I was rooting so hard for Emma and Michael, and above all loved how much fun the author had while writing it because I could feel that joy that from every page!
I also can't wait for her next book about two side characters from this book!
On to the book – it's funny! I laughed out loud and LOVED the sassy grandma. It's also an anti-billionaire, billionaire romance which is such a breath of fresh air. I (like many of us) have suffered through corporate hellscapes, and this book dives deeper to touch upon themes of corporate burnout and what it means to live a life that actually lights us up. And the steamy scenes were *fans self* both sexy *and* sensual. I was rooting so hard for Emma and Michael, and above all loved how much fun the author had while writing it because I could feel that joy that from every page!
I also can't wait for her next book about two side characters from this book!
August 24, 2026
The characters, the spice, the city! All ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I truly cannot believe this is a debut novel! So excited to read the rest of the forthcoming “From Austin, with Love” series!
Emma, the FMC is cheeky, relatable, and charmingly true to herself (even when secrets are revealed 🤫) no matter what line of work you are in, Emma’s workplace woes are devastatingly relatable, which makes her so easy to root for.
Michael, the MMC is everything a romcom hero should be - to the point where he (almost) seems too good to be true. As someone who typically goes for a morally grey bad guy MMC covered in tattoos, I was genuinely surprised and delighted that clean cut Michael caught my heart.
As a native Texan who has lived in Austin for over a decade, I LOVED seeing an author who finally nailed using Austin as a backdrop. Far too often the city of Austin is painted like a kooky caricature trying too hard to “Keep Austin weird” in books and movies/TV - “Accidentally Viral”, on the other hand, actually NAILS the current vibe of Austin in a way that makes the city itself feel like a beloved third main character
Emma, the FMC is cheeky, relatable, and charmingly true to herself (even when secrets are revealed 🤫) no matter what line of work you are in, Emma’s workplace woes are devastatingly relatable, which makes her so easy to root for.
Michael, the MMC is everything a romcom hero should be - to the point where he (almost) seems too good to be true. As someone who typically goes for a morally grey bad guy MMC covered in tattoos, I was genuinely surprised and delighted that clean cut Michael caught my heart.
As a native Texan who has lived in Austin for over a decade, I LOVED seeing an author who finally nailed using Austin as a backdrop. Far too often the city of Austin is painted like a kooky caricature trying too hard to “Keep Austin weird” in books and movies/TV - “Accidentally Viral”, on the other hand, actually NAILS the current vibe of Austin in a way that makes the city itself feel like a beloved third main character
February 13, 2026
This book was so fun, and I can’t believe it’s a debut novel!
There are a few things that are really important to me in a contemporary romance:
1. Characters that are generally emotionally mature, but still have believable flaws they have to overcome - ✅
2. Dialogue must feel real and not forced or stilted - ✅
3. If there is spice (and oh boy is there), the less “good girls” the better and if it’s not really well written I’m skimming - ✅
4. I need the story to be a little absurd, but not completely unrealistic - ✅
I cannot wait to read whatever Hawkins puts out next!
Huge thanks to the author for the gifted e-ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review!
There are a few things that are really important to me in a contemporary romance:
1. Characters that are generally emotionally mature, but still have believable flaws they have to overcome - ✅
2. Dialogue must feel real and not forced or stilted - ✅
3. If there is spice (and oh boy is there), the less “good girls” the better and if it’s not really well written I’m skimming - ✅
4. I need the story to be a little absurd, but not completely unrealistic - ✅
I cannot wait to read whatever Hawkins puts out next!
Huge thanks to the author for the gifted e-ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review!
February 16, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from Author.
I blew through this in one day! From feeling like Ava and Emma could be my girlfriends to the tingles at the first meetup between Emma and Michael, I enjoyed the characters, the dialogue, and the setting in Austin from the start. Typically in romance novels I have to roll my eyes at some plot points or discourse for the sake of romance, but that did not happen in Accidentally Viral. A spicy scene was so good I momentarily forgot about the foreshadowing that had just happened in the chapter prior!
Hard to believe this is the author's debut novel. I look forward to next one, and kinda hope big brother Evan gets the spotlight ❤️
I blew through this in one day! From feeling like Ava and Emma could be my girlfriends to the tingles at the first meetup between Emma and Michael, I enjoyed the characters, the dialogue, and the setting in Austin from the start. Typically in romance novels I have to roll my eyes at some plot points or discourse for the sake of romance, but that did not happen in Accidentally Viral. A spicy scene was so good I momentarily forgot about the foreshadowing that had just happened in the chapter prior!
Hard to believe this is the author's debut novel. I look forward to next one, and kinda hope big brother Evan gets the spotlight ❤️
June 15, 2026
Stars: ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.🌶️
This was such a fun and easy ready.
Quirky FMC who has spent her entire life feeling like “too much”
Unhappy MMC who has spent his entire life in the shadows of his father.
Their chemistry was great and the spicy scenes were very well written.
It’s a typical billionaire romance that stretches the “this would never happen IRL” vibes, but the chaotic energy of the FMC allows for your imagination to accept it easier than others.
Overall, I’m incredible impressed this is the authors first novel.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.🌶️
This was such a fun and easy ready.
Quirky FMC who has spent her entire life feeling like “too much”
Unhappy MMC who has spent his entire life in the shadows of his father.
Their chemistry was great and the spicy scenes were very well written.
It’s a typical billionaire romance that stretches the “this would never happen IRL” vibes, but the chaotic energy of the FMC allows for your imagination to accept it easier than others.
Overall, I’m incredible impressed this is the authors first novel.
February 18, 2026
What a great book from a debut author! Accidentally Viral was a romcom that focused on the crazy world of social media fame and CEO status.
Emma and Michael met and had a great weekend together, not realizing who the other actually was. I loved their relationship and how they brought out the best in each other. Their chemistry was off the charts and the banter was great.
Thank you to Carolyn Hawkins for providing me with this advanced reader copy. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Emma and Michael met and had a great weekend together, not realizing who the other actually was. I loved their relationship and how they brought out the best in each other. Their chemistry was off the charts and the banter was great.
Thank you to Carolyn Hawkins for providing me with this advanced reader copy. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
February 16, 2026
New author, Emily Henry Vibe with much more spice but a fun beach read for sure or Spring Break with the girls. Love the Austin setting since I’ve been there a lot and a very quick read that kept me hooked. Definitely a younger girl book if you like spice! This would be a great Netflix movie also! Can’t wait to see where the story goes Carolyn.
Read
March 10, 2026I loved this book! Both main characters were lovable - real life personalities and relatable faults - and I enjoyed their journey throughout the story. The banter and spice were TOP NOTCH. I’m excited for Nate and Madi’s book next. I picked up on the spark between them and was delighted when I saw their story was up next!
April 29, 2026
Accidentally Viral by Carolyn Hawkins
After a whirlwind weekend sparks a powerful connection, a woman is forced to reconsider everything when she discovers the man she’s falling for is the very CEO who turns her life upside down.
The dual POV between Emma and Michael was EVERYTHING. Getting inside both of their heads, especially through their conversations with friends, made the story feel so real and layered. The pacing was super fast in a way that made it impossible to put down. I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” and suddenly I was way too deep to stop.
This book surprised me emotionally too. I don’t cry often while reading, but this one had me tearing up the entire time. Happy, sad, frustrated… all of it. It just hits in a way you don’t expect going into a romcom.
You’re getting boss x employee, he falls first, hidden identity, opposites attract, and secret relationship all wrapped into one very addictive story with lots of spice and genuinely witty banter.
And in Carolyn Hawkins’ words, if you hate Elon Musk and the butt of the bread… this book is for you 😂
After a whirlwind weekend sparks a powerful connection, a woman is forced to reconsider everything when she discovers the man she’s falling for is the very CEO who turns her life upside down.
The dual POV between Emma and Michael was EVERYTHING. Getting inside both of their heads, especially through their conversations with friends, made the story feel so real and layered. The pacing was super fast in a way that made it impossible to put down. I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” and suddenly I was way too deep to stop.
This book surprised me emotionally too. I don’t cry often while reading, but this one had me tearing up the entire time. Happy, sad, frustrated… all of it. It just hits in a way you don’t expect going into a romcom.
You’re getting boss x employee, he falls first, hidden identity, opposites attract, and secret relationship all wrapped into one very addictive story with lots of spice and genuinely witty banter.
And in Carolyn Hawkins’ words, if you hate Elon Musk and the butt of the bread… this book is for you 😂
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