Accidentally Viral: A Secret CEO, Workplace Romance

by Carolyn Hawkins

Accidentally 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

Genres: Romance, Spicy Romance, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 16, 2026

About the author

A 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.

Reviews

[HollyJane · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 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.

[April K · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Nicole Reads & Reps · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Bridget Gigliotti · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Shannon Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

[Amanda Mendez · Rating 4 out of 5]

"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!

[Ariel LaFollette · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️❤️❤️

[Maddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!!!

[Melissa (honeybee.reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Tay_is_reading_again · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Sharril · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Jaclyn Collentro · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Rosi Colmenares · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.😍

[Emina · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 😌

[browsing.the.bookstacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[madisyn (bookish verison) · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Miranda Arjona · Rating 5 out of 5]

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???

[Heather (Batcitybookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Kristina McLaren · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 ❤️

[Elissa Isham · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Jennifer Sowinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Katie]

I 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!

[Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 😂

[Kaitlyn | read_withkaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review of Accidentally Viral

This was such a fun, chaotic ride! I loved the whole “oops I went viral” premise—it felt super current and a little too real at times 😂

The main character was messy in the best way (aka actually human), and I really enjoyed watching her figure things out while navigating sudden internet fame. The romance was sweet with a nice slow build, and the love interest brought just the right amount of calm to all the chaos.

It did get a tiny bit predictable in spots, but honestly, the humor, heart, and relatable moments made up for it.

Overall: cute, entertaining, and perfect if you love romance mixed with social media drama!

[Sarah Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cute book! Stayed up all night to finish it! Loved the nods to Austin!

[Katie Shaver]

Recieved this book from the author! Thank you Carolyn! Not able to rate or review due to Calli Terms & Standards.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I needed an easy read; Michael and Emma did just the trick.

[Keri Giaquinto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! Can’t wait for the sequel!