Let’s talk about It Seemed Like A Good Idea - the newest release from Lauren Blakely. If you’ve loved her Love and Hockey series, this is her latest offering and the first book in the Darling Springs series.
This story brings all the cosy small-town romance energy, with a splash of Hollywood chaos thrown in for good measure. It’s set on a lavender farm (honestly, who doesn’t love a lavender farm?), which makes the whole book feel soft, dreamy, and just a little bit escapist.
So, what’s it about?
Ripley is happily living her peaceful small-town life… until everything gets turned upside down. Enter: a broody bodyguard, her twin, and a wave of full-on Hollywood paparazzi drama.
It’s messy, flirty, and exactly the kind of “this is a terrible idea but I’m doing it anyway” romance we all know and love.
Tropes & spice
We’ve got:
- small-town romance
- forced proximity (in a very cute cottage… and yes, only one bed - IYKYK)
- grumpy x sunshine
The tropes are done so well — they feel natural rather than overplayed.
As for spice, I’d call it a solid medium. It’s definitely not vanilla, but it’s not over the top either. It keeps that soft, chick-lit feel while still delivering on chemistry.
Would I recommend?
Absolutely.
The banter between the two main characters is a real highlight - witty, teasing, and genuinely fun to read without feeling forced. And the setting? I’m obsessed. The lavender farm completely steals the show and honestly feels like a character in its own right.
That said, this is very much a vibes over depth kind of read. The chemistry is there, but the emotional depth doesn’t always hit as strongly. I also found the pacing dipped slightly in the middle, where things felt a bit stretched out.
Final thoughts
If you’re looking for something cute, flirty, comforting, with just a hint of chaos, this absolutely delivers. It’s light, easy to read, and very bingeable.
Perfect if you love:
- small-town romances with personality
- a “he protects her but also annoys her” dynamic
- books that feel like a cosy rom-com movie night
And if you enjoy authors like Meghan Quinn or Tessa Bailey, then Lauren Blakely is definitely one to keep on your radar.
How to read
You can read It Seemed Like A Good Idea on Kindle Unlimited, or pick up a paperback copy online or in-store depending on your preferred format.
Molly
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