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Designs On You
Emmy Bates and Cas Springer have been at each other’s necks since the day they met in her older brother’s senior house in college. Now, fierce competitors in the world of architecture, they somehow still hate each other. Both independent architects in the same bustling city, their professional clashes are legendary, filled with pranks, bickering, and one-upmanship.
When a prestigious client offers them both a chance to submit one design each for a new skyscraper that will transform the Chicago skyline, the stakes are higher than ever. This isn't just about winning a lucrative contract; it's about proving who's the best once and for all. Yet, beneath the surface of their rivalry lies a chemistry they both refuse to acknowledge.
Forced to work against each other in a high-pressure environment, Emmy and Cas must navigate their fierce competition while old grudges mix with new sparks. As they clash over blueprints and battle for the account, they start to realize there might be more at stake than just a professional victory. Can Emmy and Cas overcome their differences and admit what they’ve been denying for years, or will their stubbornness keep them apart?
Get ready for a rollercoaster of laughs, love, and architectural marvels in this dual POV rivals-to-lovers, brother’s-best-friend tale where the blueprints of their story are more complex than any building they could design.
This is the second book in the standalone but interconnected series, ‘Love in Unexpected Places’. You do not have to read the first book to read this one, but you do get more background into the characters if you do. No pressure, though. This book is my favorite so far, and I get lazy starting at the beginning when another plot seems more interesting too sometimes.
When a prestigious client offers them both a chance to submit one design each for a new skyscraper that will transform the Chicago skyline, the stakes are higher than ever. This isn't just about winning a lucrative contract; it's about proving who's the best once and for all. Yet, beneath the surface of their rivalry lies a chemistry they both refuse to acknowledge.
Forced to work against each other in a high-pressure environment, Emmy and Cas must navigate their fierce competition while old grudges mix with new sparks. As they clash over blueprints and battle for the account, they start to realize there might be more at stake than just a professional victory. Can Emmy and Cas overcome their differences and admit what they’ve been denying for years, or will their stubbornness keep them apart?
Get ready for a rollercoaster of laughs, love, and architectural marvels in this dual POV rivals-to-lovers, brother’s-best-friend tale where the blueprints of their story are more complex than any building they could design.
This is the second book in the standalone but interconnected series, ‘Love in Unexpected Places’. You do not have to read the first book to read this one, but you do get more background into the characters if you do. No pressure, though. This book is my favorite so far, and I get lazy starting at the beginning when another plot seems more interesting too sometimes.
- GenresRomance
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2024
13 people are currently reading
507 people want to read
About the author
Amira Danali
3 books27 followersHi! Welcome to my author's page. Since I've recently aqcuired a degree in Industrial Engineering, I'm all about efficiency. Therefore, I will just be taking my bio straight from my 'About the Author' section of my book. Thank you guys for getting to know me :)
Amira Danali is a pen name for a 21-year-old girl who took up a bunch of big projects the summer after graduation because she wanted to do everything possible before starting her official adult life. She is a lover of cheesy romances, late night Taco Bell runs, spontaneous trips with friends, and trying new things. A billion new things. All at once.
Currently, she is editing her second book, writing her third book, crocheting a mandala blanket for her mom, planning her move, trying to figure out life, reading through her TBR list, researching places in Boston, and making her way through the Star Wars movies.
Amira Danali is a pen name for a 21-year-old girl who took up a bunch of big projects the summer after graduation because she wanted to do everything possible before starting her official adult life. She is a lover of cheesy romances, late night Taco Bell runs, spontaneous trips with friends, and trying new things. A billion new things. All at once.
Currently, she is editing her second book, writing her third book, crocheting a mandala blanket for her mom, planning her move, trying to figure out life, reading through her TBR list, researching places in Boston, and making her way through the Star Wars movies.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 15, 2025
i cannot finish this book. it’s so fast paced and literally. where did the time go???????
October 25, 2024
Sweet and spicy (iykyk!)
A fast, fun and swoony read. I loved Emmy and Cas together, their bickering and slow burn romance.
I would have loved it more if Cas was pining, but thats just a me thing.
I actually didn’t hate the friend group here, but again i am begging authors to keep our investment in them confined only to the story they’re featuring in! There was no need for two pages of vows at the wedding.
The writing was great, and there were a few moments that had me chuckling.
I know that this is an indie book, but it could have used a bit more editing, and it shows in the final product. Some sentence repetitions and too many repeated phrases.
The prologue chapters have no effect in the story, and i am baffled as to why they were included. The actual prologue should have been them in college (kiss & roofie (?!) ), which was later shoehorned in as an attempt for miscommunication, that was so abrupt and didn’t fit the story or the characters.
Also, them having designed a gallery together already, didn’t fit them and didn’t make sense in their present interactions. Was it leftover from the previous book?
Speaking of, this book really should be shelved under book two of the series, and not as a standalone, for the above mentioned reason.
And also i hate being lead to think that its a true standalone, but then finding out while reading, through the ever-obvious side character and past event descriptions, that it in fact is not.
Not sure if i’ll pick up book one as i don’t really like Max, but am looking forward to Ezra and Rowan’s books when they come out.
A fast, fun and swoony read. I loved Emmy and Cas together, their bickering and slow burn romance.
I would have loved it more if Cas was pining, but thats just a me thing.
I actually didn’t hate the friend group here, but again i am begging authors to keep our investment in them confined only to the story they’re featuring in! There was no need for two pages of vows at the wedding.
The writing was great, and there were a few moments that had me chuckling.
I know that this is an indie book, but it could have used a bit more editing, and it shows in the final product. Some sentence repetitions and too many repeated phrases.
The prologue chapters have no effect in the story, and i am baffled as to why they were included. The actual prologue should have been them in college (kiss & roofie (?!) ), which was later shoehorned in as an attempt for miscommunication, that was so abrupt and didn’t fit the story or the characters.
Also, them having designed a gallery together already, didn’t fit them and didn’t make sense in their present interactions. Was it leftover from the previous book?
Speaking of, this book really should be shelved under book two of the series, and not as a standalone, for the above mentioned reason.
And also i hate being lead to think that its a true standalone, but then finding out while reading, through the ever-obvious side character and past event descriptions, that it in fact is not.
Not sure if i’ll pick up book one as i don’t really like Max, but am looking forward to Ezra and Rowan’s books when they come out.
September 6, 2024
A delightful romance that blends humor, tension, and heartfelt moments. The story revolves around Cas and Emmy, who are fierce rivals in the architectural world. Complicating their dynamic is the fact that Cas is Emmy’s brother’s best friend, making their romance feel forbidden and fraught with tension.
The book excels in delivering laughs through its outrageous pranks and witty banter, while also capturing the tender moments that showcase the deepening love between the protagonists. The "enemies to lovers" trope is well-executed, with a slow-burning romance that gradually heats up, offering a spicy yet sweet narrative.
Additionally, the story thoughtfully addresses themes of foster care and growing up in the system, adding depth to the characters and their journey. Overall, this book is a charming blend of humor, romance, and emotional depth, making it a satisfying read for fans of contemporary romance.
The book excels in delivering laughs through its outrageous pranks and witty banter, while also capturing the tender moments that showcase the deepening love between the protagonists. The "enemies to lovers" trope is well-executed, with a slow-burning romance that gradually heats up, offering a spicy yet sweet narrative.
Additionally, the story thoughtfully addresses themes of foster care and growing up in the system, adding depth to the characters and their journey. Overall, this book is a charming blend of humor, romance, and emotional depth, making it a satisfying read for fans of contemporary romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2024
This is a pretty funny story! Emmy and Cas both remind me of grade school the way they prank each other. Mom always told me if a boy picks on you, it's because he likes you. Hard to imagine any like between these two. Cas is a little hard too like at first. He comes off as egotistical and down right mean. But, WOW when these two grade school acting adults start acting their age, the sparks start flying!! My favorite part of this story is the banana dance. I would have loved to jump into the book to see that! It couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy. Funny pranks throughout the entire story mixed in with some heartwarming moments, and lots of sizzle too! Excellent read. Emmy is my new hero!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 31, 2024
ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 - This book was sooooo cute!
I loved this book! This book was absolutely adorable! Cas and Emmy are so cute! Emmy was exactly what I was looking for in this book and I loved it! Cas was the best with his smiles and lightheartedness.
I loved the enemies to lovers in this book! It was absolutely perfect! The amount of enemying was wonderful and I loved how they got together!
I love Amira Danali's writing! And the story is set at such good pace!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 - This book was sooooo cute!
I loved this book! This book was absolutely adorable! Cas and Emmy are so cute! Emmy was exactly what I was looking for in this book and I loved it! Cas was the best with his smiles and lightheartedness.
I loved the enemies to lovers in this book! It was absolutely perfect! The amount of enemying was wonderful and I loved how they got together!
I love Amira Danali's writing! And the story is set at such good pace!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2024
Enjoyable story!
Emmy and Cas are fierce enemies. Some of their pranks were mortifying. I really wondered how on earth this was going to develop into a romance but the author did a great job! They were as intense in their attraction together as they had been as enemies. It was a joy to read! As usual their friends added so much to the story. I’m looking forward to reading about their stories. Highly recommend!
Received a free copy as an advance reader.
Emmy and Cas are fierce enemies. Some of their pranks were mortifying. I really wondered how on earth this was going to develop into a romance but the author did a great job! They were as intense in their attraction together as they had been as enemies. It was a joy to read! As usual their friends added so much to the story. I’m looking forward to reading about their stories. Highly recommend!
Received a free copy as an advance reader.
September 24, 2024
I LOVE THIS!!! I will love the author forever for giving us more Max & Alina content 🤍
This was such a funny, easy read and lovely book that had my attention all the time. I literally can’t wait for the next book because Ezraaa 🫶
Every character is written perfectly and please let me be part of their friend group
This was such a funny, easy read and lovely book that had my attention all the time. I literally can’t wait for the next book because Ezraaa 🫶
Every character is written perfectly and please let me be part of their friend group
January 9, 2025
I can’t continue this anymore.
Both characters are so immature and infuriating..
They act like a highschoolers. It was just a waste of my time.
But, if you like this kind of ENEMIES TO LOVERS it’s good. I just can’t tolerate it.
This can be also read as Standalone since the author can’t moved on with Alina and Max from Brushing off Business.
Both characters are so immature and infuriating..
They act like a highschoolers. It was just a waste of my time.
But, if you like this kind of ENEMIES TO LOVERS it’s good. I just can’t tolerate it.
This can be also read as Standalone since the author can’t moved on with Alina and Max from Brushing off Business.
September 26, 2024
Beautiful book and very well written! Read in 2 days. Book is for YA audience as well as adults! Highly recommend.
November 29, 2024
Cas and Emmy
December 6, 2024
enemies to lovers excellence but your skyscraper news better not overshadow my wedding ….
December 7, 2024
cas springer…the man that u are🫶
January 8, 2025
This book was so cute, but it wasn’t as cute as the first one! I love the childhood friends to enemies to lovers trope. It was great!
March 27, 2025
Absolutely amazing! Such a good quick read and such a cute story! The author is amazing and so good at writing chemistry and a good plot line along with it!
May 23, 2025
First one was a bit better but I love Cas
December 22, 2025
Not as good as the first one, but it was till a pretty good read
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews