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Accidentally Viral: A Secret CEO, Workplace Romance
Not yet published
Expected 16 Feb 26Accidentally Viral is a secret identity, workplace contemporary romance where he falls first, but she posts last.
Emma McCoy hates her job almost as much as she loves roasting corporate life online. So when a charming stranger at an Austin wine bar distracts her from another soul-sucking day in IT, she says yes to one spontaneous date and accidentally kicks off the best weekend of her life.
Michael Bass is drowning under the pressure of inheriting his father’s billion-dollar company. The expectations, the scrutiny, the legacy, it's all enough to crush him. But Emma doesn't know his last name, doesn't care about his money, and for the first time in years, Michael gets to just be a man, not the CEO or Ian Bass’s son.
One unforgettable weekend turns into late-night music, sharp banter, and chemistry that feels dangerously real. By Monday morning, they both believe this could be something more.
But the universe has a wicked sense of humor. When an impulsive decision made by a certain CEO throws Emma's life into a tailspin, she'll have to decide if she can trust a man who represents everything she claims to hate. And Michael has to prove that what they found wasn’t just a weekend escape, but something worth risking his reputation, his legacy, and his carefully controlled life for.
Because sometimes the person who understands you best is the one who can hurt you the most.
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Opposites Attract
- Hidden Identity
- Mutual Pining
- Dating in Secret
Emma McCoy hates her job almost as much as she loves roasting corporate life online. So when a charming stranger at an Austin wine bar distracts her from another soul-sucking day in IT, she says yes to one spontaneous date and accidentally kicks off the best weekend of her life.
Michael Bass is drowning under the pressure of inheriting his father’s billion-dollar company. The expectations, the scrutiny, the legacy, it's all enough to crush him. But Emma doesn't know his last name, doesn't care about his money, and for the first time in years, Michael gets to just be a man, not the CEO or Ian Bass’s son.
One unforgettable weekend turns into late-night music, sharp banter, and chemistry that feels dangerously real. By Monday morning, they both believe this could be something more.
But the universe has a wicked sense of humor. When an impulsive decision made by a certain CEO throws Emma's life into a tailspin, she'll have to decide if she can trust a man who represents everything she claims to hate. And Michael has to prove that what they found wasn’t just a weekend escape, but something worth risking his reputation, his legacy, and his carefully controlled life for.
Because sometimes the person who understands you best is the one who can hurt you the most.
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Opposites Attract
- Hidden Identity
- Mutual Pining
- Dating in Secret
Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 16, 2026
3 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Hawkins
1 book1 followerA lifelong reader and writer, Carolyn Hawkins brings you a debut novel with lots of laughs, spice, and, of course, a happily ever after.
Armed with a BS in Journalism & Literature, Carolyn spent years hustling through corporate America before burnout nudged her back to the dream she’d put on pause. Now she writes the kind of swoony romances she loved as a reader.
When she’s not drafting meet-cutes or daydreaming about fictional men, 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 burnout nudged her back to the dream she’d put on pause. Now she writes the kind of swoony romances she loved as a reader.
When she’s not drafting meet-cutes or daydreaming about fictional men, 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.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
In this debut novel, the author delivers a charming and confident workplace romance set against the vibrant backdrop of Austin, Texas. I couldn’t put the book down and read it in a day!
What truly elevates the book is its unexpected plot twist. Just when the story seems to be settling into familiar romantic territory, the author takes a bold narrative turn that reframes earlier events and adds surprising depth to the characters. The twist isn’t there for shock value alone; it’s carefully woven into the story and ultimately strengthens the emotional payoff, proving the author’s skill and ambition.
Fans of contemporary romance—especially those who enjoy smart, spicy, character-driven stories with a touch of surprise—will find this book a delightful and memorable read. It’s an exciting debut that suggests this author is one to watch!
What truly elevates the book is its unexpected plot twist. Just when the story seems to be settling into familiar romantic territory, the author takes a bold narrative turn that reframes earlier events and adds surprising depth to the characters. The twist isn’t there for shock value alone; it’s carefully woven into the story and ultimately strengthens the emotional payoff, proving the author’s skill and ambition.
Fans of contemporary romance—especially those who enjoy smart, spicy, character-driven stories with a touch of surprise—will find this book a delightful and memorable read. It’s an exciting debut that suggests this author is one to watch!
Review of advance copy
This book was so fun I couldn’t put it down! It’s a pretty easy read, definitely beach read vibes. But the author really made me connect with the characters in the short amount of time she had. I was totally invested in Michael and Emma and couldn’t put it down until I found out how their relationship turned out. I’m excited to see what’s next for some of the other characters 👀
Review of advance copy received from Author
I genuinely could not put this book down - I devoured it in one day. It hooked me in quickly and kept me interested for the entire story. I found myself incredibly invested in the lives of the two main characters. Carrie does such a good job of balancing fun, spice, intrigue, and heartfelt moments.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a fun read! It provides a sizzling escape from reality while somehow providing ties back to real life without effort. Love the Austin setting; it's a great city.
In a world of "Karens"... Be an Emma ;)
In a world of "Karens"... Be an Emma ;)
Review of advance copy
This was a fun little read that my wife could not put down! A nice change from the historical fiction she usually has her nose to. Apparently, it has some spice, so have her read it before bed!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews