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The Deep End of the Pool

Not yet published
Expected 1 Jul 26
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Annie Morgan knows better than to fall in love.

After seven years as a therapist he’s mastered the art of spotting red flags, setting boundaries, and keeping her heart safely out of the equation. Love is for her clients. Stability is for her daughter. And that’s more than enough.

Then Christopher Logan walks in and ruins everything.

He’s charming, frustratingly attentive, and entirely too easy to talk to. He's the kind of man Annie would normally unravel in a single session. But Chris isn’t like anyone she’s met before. A single dad with a complicated past and a tendency to care too much, he makes Annie feel seen in ways she’s spent years avoiding.

When their daughters form an instant bond (in the most unexpected place imaginable), Annie and Chris find their lives colliding at every turn—from coffee shop run-ins to one unforgettable Valentine’s Day that changes everything.

But as old wounds resurface, rumors spiral out of control, and real life refuses to stay neat and manageable, Annie and Chris are forced to confront the one thing they’ve both been

What if love is worth the risk?

The Deep End of the Pool is a sharp, heartfelt romantic comedy about second chances, messy lives, and what happens when you stop standing at the edge—and finally jump.

Kindle Edition

Expected publication July 1, 2026

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Sadie Franks

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5 stars
11 (42%)
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13 (50%)
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2 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer D.
21 reviews5 followers
May 19, 2026
The Deep End of the Pool was genuinely one of the cutest romcoms I've read in a long time.

The character growth felt so raw and real, and somehow they managed to be hilarious and painfully relatable at the same time. I was smiling through basically the entire book

It was honestly such a breath of fresh air to read a love story that was allowed to just be a love story. No unnecessary drama between the main characters,
no toxic miscommunication for 400 pages. Just two people falling in love in a way that felt comforting, funny, and real.

Easily one of my favorite reads this year
Profile Image for Shannon.
50 reviews
May 25, 2026
Ohhhhh my god I loved this book! I was hooked from the very beginning, I loved the plot, I loved the main characters, I loved their baggage, I love their sexual tension, I loved their flirtatious banter. This was giving everything I want and more in a romance novel.

This book was beautifully written, there were some heavy topics: addiction, abuse, domestic violence, toxic relationships, and the author wrote these in a such a tasteful way that made the book and the characters relatable and made you really root for them.

I really hope there’s another book to follow Annie and Chris’ story.
Profile Image for Emily.
6 reviews
May 26, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author. There are no spoilers in this review.

First, I appreciated the author’s note regarding past trauma and trigger warnings at the beginning of the book, as it helped prepare me for what was to come throughout the story.

The book itself was very well written. At times when I read, I can feel overwhelmed by unnecessary details or filler information about characters and storylines, but that was not the case here. Everything felt intentional, and the pacing throughout the story flowed incredibly well.

I really enjoyed both the main female and male characters. There were two particular lines (one from each of them) that genuinely resonated with me and caused me to reflect on parts of my own life. I always appreciate when a book unexpectedly creates that kind of personal connection, and I was not anticipating that element when I first started reading.

I also found myself feeling empathy for many of the supporting characters because of the situations and struggles they were experiencing. As the story progressed, I kept trying to predict what would happen next. While I was not always correct, I truly enjoyed how the story unfolded and developed over time.

Even after finishing the book, I still have so many questions, which leaves me hopeful that a sequel may be coming. Before I knew it, I had finished the entire book in just one day across a few sittings. Despite some of the heavier topics and trauma experienced by the characters, I still found this to be a very engaging and easy read overall.

5/5 stars for me!
Profile Image for Kirsten.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 31, 2026
I finished this book with a big smile on my face, and you will too.

Annie Morgan and Chris Logan are both single parents in their mid 30s in Austin, TX. I was rooting for them from the moment they met in the children’s underwear section at Target. Despite the instant chemistry, they have their baggage. Their journey is engaging, and the family and friends who surround them are entertaining and authentic. It’s a steamy read at times, and a teensy bit naughty.

I enjoyed that the book basically has a soundtrack. Songs are woven throughout, and I would either a) recognize the song and feel cool or b) immediately queue it up on Spotify. I expect to see some banger playlists pop up around this book.

The female friendships in this story are portrayed beautifully. The group chat Annie has going with her friends is unhinged and hilarious, and they show up for each other in meaningful ways.

As an Austinite, I found the Austin setting to be particularly vivid. It was fun to match the locations in the book to what I imagine are the real spots around town.

Long short, if you like contemporary romance, check out The Deep End of the Pool! Looking forward to more from debut author Sadie Franks.
Profile Image for Gel.
325 reviews37 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 2, 2026
3.5 rounded up ARC review

Possible spoilers (bc there’s some mystery to their trauma but I know some people want safety info…)










There were things I enjoyed about this book.
✅I thought it was super cute and well written.
✅There were a few times that I laughed out loud because she is a very witty writer.
✅Chris was super patient and I loved how hard and fast he fell for Annie, even though she did a lot of pushing him away.
✅The kids were adorable and I loved how quickly they formed a bond.

That being said there are some “me things” that I didn’t like. It’s nothing against the book or writer, they’re just things that I don’t enjoy in a book.

❌dead ex trope. Technically they were never together, but the mother of his child died. It was a one night thing but he wanted to try and be a family. He never loved her or anything.
❌she’s been celibate for….10 years! Not even a date. Her ex husband was abusive so I see why she would be reluctant to date…and this would be fine if he wasn’t….
❌you guessed it. A manwhore. He even calls himself one. They even run into people he has had one night stands with. Not my thing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Diane Costa.
18 reviews
May 25, 2026
I had the chance to read an ARC of The Deep End of the Pool before release and I already know this book is going to have readers obsessed 😭💙

This story was sweet, emotional, funny, and had the perfect amount of tension and chemistry. The characters felt so real that I found myself completely invested in every interaction and rooting for them the entire time.

The writing pulled me in right away and gave me all the late-night “just one more chapter” vibes. The slow burn, the emotional moments, and the connection between the characters made this such an enjoyable read.

I’m so grateful I got the opportunity to read this ARC early because now I’m counting down until everyone else gets to experience it too 👏📚

If you love romance with heart, chemistry, and characters you can’t stop thinking about, definitely add this one to your TBR 💫

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Would you read a poolside romance with emotional depth and tension? 👀👇
Profile Image for Sarah Franklin.
40 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 20, 2026
This was such a super cute and heartfelt love story. Both characters are carrying past traumas, and I really loved watching them learn to heal and overcome those struggles together. One of my favorite aspects of the book was the therapist angle and how it highlighted the importance of healing, self-growth, and therapy in such a positive and realistic way.

The mental health representation for both the FMC and MMC was handled with care and compassion, which made the story feel even more meaningful. The writing was easy to read, and the mix of funny moments and emotional scenes kept me fully engaged from beginning to end.

Overall, this was a touching, uplifting romance with emotional depth and lovable characters. A great read for anyone who enjoys romances that balance humor, healing, and heart.
Profile Image for nameless_sadie.
40 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 21, 2026
I spent a while trying to decide what to rate this. But then I realized I was thinking about Annie and Chris and their little family during times when I wasn't reading it. And when I was reading, I felt cozy and full of ... calm joy. It was a nice change of pace. So then that signaled to me what I needed to do, and give it 5 stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The little teasings between characters and the chemistry and the cohesiveness. The two little girls' (Vaughn and Robbie) friendship was adorable and I absolutely loved them to pieces! It was all just so nice! The story was complex yet simple, and innocent yet mature.

I don't even know what else to say about this author and this story. It was such a good read and every page was filled with abundance of warmth. 💕

*Read as an ARC, my review is all my own thoughts.*
Profile Image for Rosemary.
7 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 24, 2026
This book hooked me from the start! Chris, despite his childhood… Having to grow up quick for his younger sister, Jessie; and the trauma he went through with his daughters mother, is mesmerized completely by the “Underwear Lady” at Target after years of suppressing those types of feelings down DEEP! The first interaction was so funny and it quickly enveloped me with all the witty, awkward,serious and sexy moments between Chris and Annie.

Annie, who knew she wanted to be a therapist after her own personal experience, is always in her head and tries so hard to push this stunning too-good-to-be-true man away from her and her daughter, but the more she tries to scare him away, the harder he tries, and who can resist this hunk of a man?!

If you love a slow burn romantic comedy, this book is for you ❤️ The book is due to come out on Amazon on July 1st 📚
Profile Image for Jane Ruff.
52 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 25, 2026
This was a lovely book about second chances and taking a leap of faith.

Our main characters, Annie and Chris, felt real and relatable. Robbie is Annie's daughter, and Vaughn is Chris's daughter, and the opening scenes of the four of them meeting in a Target is funny and sweet.

As children often do, the girls are immediate best friends - and I loved these two! The author does a realistic depiction of their immediate connection.

Both Annie and Chris have fractured pasts and are very protective of their girls and their lives as single parents. Should they get involved with each other?

There are some rumors circling and lives get a bit messy - and again, Annie and Chris question the risks of love.

This book also handles the issue of mental health, respectively. Annie is a therapist, and this adds depth to the story.

Uplifting and "feel-good" romantic comedy story full of heart!
Profile Image for Michelle Robichaux.
23 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 1, 2026
⭐️ARC READER⭐️

This is a REALLLLLY cute romance story!! A solid 4.5 ⭐️
I definitely enjoyed the slow burn 🔥
I loved the character build!
I love that it’s a single mom and dad as the MCs!

The back stories for the single mom and dad involved, the little girls, the trauma suffered was heart breaking but relatable! As a prior single mom the feelings of the mom were super relatable, and I LOVED that! 🙌🏻 dating as a single parent is hard and can be so uncomfortable! This was so elegantly done!

I really hope there is a book 2 because I wanna know what happens with Chris and Annie! I love their love story! As a lover of The Notebook, it’s a really sweet story! I wanna know what happens to bond developed with the daughters! And the dad Bill and Robbie?? Whaaaaat??? I wanna know what happens to them all! lol!

Thank you for trusting me with an early eread copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Dana Biasi.
24 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 1, 2026
This sweet romance novel was a joy to read. Annie and Chris are both single parents to two delightful daughters. They both have been carrying baggage from painful pasts that included heartbreak and loss.

How the book portrays the journey of healing, acceptance and finding peace with the past was so well done. To see this through the eyes of Annie, who is a therapist, and Chris, gave the story meaning and depth.

Chris is such a lovable character who thoughtfully does things to woo Annie. Even though their budding relationship evolves through the book, Annie and Chris always put their daughters first.

This is a cozy, feel good read that also deals with some tough emotional issues. The ending felt very satisfying. You can’t help but root for Annie and Chris throughout the book and hope they will find a lifetime of happiness with one another.
Profile Image for Amber Fiedler.
11 reviews
June 2, 2026
Review of Advanced Copy Received from the Author

I really wanted to love The Deep End of the Pool, but unfortunately, it just didn’t fully hook me the way I hoped it would. As someone who enjoys a good second-chance romance, I was immediately drawn to the premise and found aspects of both main characters relatable and easy to connect with.

My biggest challenge with the story was the frequent use of the characters’ names throughout the dialogue and narration. It became noticeable enough that it occasionally pulled me out of the story and disrupted the flow for me.

That said, this was still a feel-good romance with likable characters and a heartwarming journey. While it wasn’t quite the right fit for me personally, readers who enjoy second-chance romances and lighter contemporary love stories may find plenty to enjoy here.
Profile Image for L.M..
Author 1 book6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 20, 2026
Romance isn’t usually my typical genre when choosing ARCs to read and review. But for some reason, this one called to me and said “Give me a chance”, and I’m glad I did.
I think what drew me to it at first was the fact that Annie and Chris, the 2 main characters, are both single parents. Their relationship from the start wasn’t your standard love story, but it works, and it works well.
I loved all the characters! Annie’s dad was a hoot. The 2 girls were instant friends and that was so adorable.
And the banter between Annie and Chris was amazing and funny.
I’d definitely recommend this book to any romance readers that are looking for a sweet, romantic, sexy, and engaging story.
**Thanks to the author, Sadie Franks, for the opportunity to read this ARC**
Profile Image for Kelly.
24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 21, 2026
Such a great read! This book completely pulled me in from the start. The character development was so well done.The banter between the characters made the slow burn absolutely worth it. Every interaction felt natural, layered, and full of chemistry. I also really appreciated the way heavier topics and past traumas were handled with care and sensitivity. One of my favorite parts was seeing the normalization of men going to therapy and openly working through their emotions while still showing up fully for the people they love, especially their children. This story had the perfect balance of emotional depth, humor, healing, and romance. Such a fun, heartfelt read that left me smiling by the end. Definitely recommend!
Profile Image for brandidxwn.
16 reviews3 followers
May 31, 2026
ARC REVIEW !!!!

I am so incredibly thankful that I got the opportunity to read this book before its official release date on July 1st 2026.

This book will have you captivated from the very start!! I could not stop thinking about Annie and Chris everytime I put the book down and I love that both main characters are single parents. This book does mention some heavy themes such as parental deaths but it’s not the main focus of the book. The main focus of the book is the two main characters getting together and of course Robbie and Vaughn being best friends was also one of my favorite elements of the book
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 30, 2026
This book really made me come out of my reading slump situation. I really like how realistic this book is and going off on real life trauma is amazing. The fact that they have past trauma and, obviously no spoilers, from there it progresses. Like a flower waiting to bloom with the right season. Chris and Annie will forever be my green flag couple (especially Chris).

This is about two single parents finding their way together, in a strange way. But, the red string myth is right on this one. Amazing work!!
Profile Image for Jackie Young.
8 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 21, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! This was such a sweet calm romance, with the slowest of burns! I loved how carefully the various mental health conversations and trauma was addressed, and I think that really added to the sweetness of the story. The healthy relationship combined with the sweetness of the girls’ friendship made for a book that had me smiling the whole time! If you’re a slow burn lover, this is for you! Thank you to Sadie Franks for the opportunity to read this book as an ARC!! 🩷🩷
Profile Image for Michelle Rodriguez.
32 reviews2 followers
May 25, 2026
Wonderfully written, fun romantic comedy.
The kids, Vaughn and Robbie were super cute girls and I loved how they met and started the whole book off! It was all because of them that their parents got together. There were lots of sweet unexpected interactions between Chris and Annie and am looking forward to more from Ms. Franks.

I would definitely recommend if you like messy, fun banter and second chances.

Thanks for the Advanced Reader Copy!!

Profile Image for Maggie Hart.
20 reviews
Review of advance copy
May 27, 2026
The Deep End of the Pool by Sadie Franks is a slow-burn romance that feels both emotional and comforting. She is a therapist single mom and he is a single dad both of who are navigating life, healing, and love, the story perfectly captures how love can find you when you least expect it even in the candy isle of the store😉. I am greatful for the opportunity to review this book! I hope others love it as much as I did.
Profile Image for Emily Adams.
22 reviews
May 24, 2026
Thank you to Sadie Franks for the ARC of this novel. This was SO good, the kind of romance novel that makes you kick your feet and giggle. Tropes include: single parents, slow burn, and he falls first. I loved that we got both POV’s through the whole novel. Chris & Annie’s relationship is swoon-worthy and I loved the honesty between them every step of the way.
Profile Image for Bee.
4 reviews
May 26, 2026
3.5 stars ⭐️
The Deep End of the Pool was such a sweet read! I really enjoyed how relatable the characters are, they felt so real and were easy to connect with. Overall, it was a fun, easy read that kept me smiling. Thank you to Sadie Franks for the ARC 💙

A fun summer read to add to your TBR, July 1st!
Profile Image for Laura Lumbra.
10 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 2, 2026
What a great book! I loved watching Annie and Chris grow and overcome every obstacle they encountered! Sadie touches on a lot of real life obstacles that people deal with such as emotional abuse and drug addiction as well as how it effects others around them.

I hope there is another book that comes out in the future to share more of Annie ans Chris' journey!
36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 17, 2026
I received this book as an ARC. It’s a really good love story. This book had some great laughs and crys. The main characters were easy to be relate to. The kids are adorable. The cast of other characters were great also. I’m glad Anne & Chris got their HEA. It was well worth the time to read it.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews