Summary
The Accidental Dating Experiment is a romance novel by Lauren Blakely, published in 2024. Set in a small town in California, the story follows Monroe and Juliet, secret lovers for a single summer eight years back, who team up to co-host a popular dating podcast. Driven by witty dialogue capturing Monroe's gruffness and Juliet's optimism, the novel flirts with romance tropes like “grumpy/sunshine,” “fake dating,” “second chance romance,” and "friends-to-lovers," while exploring themes of vulnerability and emotional growth.
Plot
The Accidental Dating Experiment follows Monroe Blackstone, a psychologist, and Juliet, his best friend's sister, who makes her living planning breakup parties. Their connection began with a summer fling eight years ago, which ended unresolved. The story progresses as they co-host the podcast "Heartbreakers and Matchmakers." Their differing personalities attract a fan who gifts them a coastal cottage in Darling Springs, California. While renovating, they unexpectedly face a single-bed setup with a mirrored ceiling, which prompts hidden desires.
Juliet shares her dating challenges with Monroe, who harbors feelings for her. He proposes being her "dating coach" for a week, arranging three dates to strengthen their relationship. As they engage in these activities, their bond deepens from friendship to romance.
Monroe grapples with feelings of unworthiness due to his past. The dating experiment forces him to confront these insecurities. Monroe eventually recognizes his love for Juliet, and they resolve their relationship amid the setting of their shared cottage.
Characters
Monroe Blackstone: A therapist who becomes a podcaster, Monroe struggles with familial issues, affecting his ability to embrace vulnerability. He is drawn to his co-host Juliet, compelling him to confront commitment fears.
Juliet: A breakup party planner and co-host of the dating podcast with Monroe. Her past with Monroe adds layers to their relationship as old feelings emerge, prompting her to reconsider her views on love.
Sawyer: Juliet's older brother and Monroe’s friend from college. Sawyer provides guidance and stability amid the evolving romantic tensions between Monroe and Juliet.
Eleanor: A listener of the podcast who gifts Monroe and Juliet a house, setting a backdrop for their romantic and emotional exploration.
Carter: Monroe's neighbor, who encourages him to acknowledge his feelings for Juliet. Adding humor to the story, Carter also contributes to Monroe’s personal growth.
Themes
Brother's best friend
The Accidental Dating Experiment uses the "brother's best friend" trope. Monroe, the male lead, has a romantic interest in Juliet, the sister of his best friend. He faces a conflict between loyalty and emerging love.
Fake dating with a twist
The plot involves a "fake dating" scenario. Monroe and Juliet embark on a dating experiment aimed at enhancing Juliet's dating skills. Monroe, however, harbors genuine feelings for her. This mixture of pretense and real emotions drives the narrative.
Friends-to-lovers
Monroe and Juliet evolve from friends to lovers, influenced by their past secret summer affair. Their collaboration on a dating podcast rekindles unresolved feelings, requiring them to address their history and deepen their connection.
Second chance at love
The theme of "second chance romance" is evident. During a week at a coastal cottage, both characters explore past flirtations and emotions. The setting prompts them to consider the enduring nature of their affection.
Grumpy/sunshine dynamic
Monroe's reserved and sometimes gruff demeanor contrasts with Juliet’s cheerful nature. This interaction not only fosters romantic tension but also highlights Monroe's emotional openness as the story progresses.
Quick facts
Lauren Blakely is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance novels.
The fourth installment in Blakely's popular How to Date series, The Accidental Dating Experiment can be read as a standalone novel.
The story centers on Monroe, a psychologist, and Juliet, a breakup party planner, who had a secret summer fling eight years in the past.
Juliet is the sister of Monroe’s best friend.
The Accidental Dating Experiment explores popular romance tropes like “fake dating,” "grumpy/sunshine," “second chance romance," and "friends-to-lovers."
Main characters Monroe and Juliet co-host "Heartbreakers and Matchmakers," a popular dating podcast essential to the plot.
The unique dating experiment uses role-play within the podcast, helping characters realize their deeper feelings.
The story is set in the cozy yet whimsical town of Darling Springs, California.
A wealthy fan gifts Monroe and Juliet a coastal cottage for a week, becoming a key setting for romantic developments.
The Accidental Dating Experiment features a dual first-person narration, alternating between the perspectives of Juliet and Monroe.
The audiobook is narrated by Andi Arndt and Jacob Morgan, whose dynamic performances capture the complexities of and chemistry between the characters.
About the author
Lauren Blakely is a highly successful author of contemporary romance novels. With her signature blend of heart, heat, and humor, her writing often explores themes of second chances, unexpected connections, vulnerability, and personal growth. Many of her books have become #1 New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Audible bestsellers. Her popular romance series include Love and Hockey and How to Date, a thematically linked collection of standalone novels that includes The Accidental Dating Experiment. An active presence on TikTok, Lauren is known for her love of dogs, cake, and show tunes.
