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Heart #2
The Design
Five minutes until the interview begins.
Fresh on the heels of her college graduation, Cameron Heart has landed an interview at a prestigious architecture firm.
Four minutes until the interview.
She knows she’s only there because the owner, Grayson Cole, is her older sister’s friend.
Three minutes.
For the last seven years, Grayson has been the most intimidating man Cammie has ever had the pleasure, or displeasure, of being around.
Two Minutes.
But the job opportunity is too good to pass up. So, Cammie will have to ignore the fact that Grayson is handsome enough to have his own national holiday.
One.
After all, she shouldn’t feel that way about her new boss. And, he will be her new boss.
Fresh on the heels of her college graduation, Cameron Heart has landed an interview at a prestigious architecture firm.
Four minutes until the interview.
She knows she’s only there because the owner, Grayson Cole, is her older sister’s friend.
Three minutes.
For the last seven years, Grayson has been the most intimidating man Cammie has ever had the pleasure, or displeasure, of being around.
Two Minutes.
But the job opportunity is too good to pass up. So, Cammie will have to ignore the fact that Grayson is handsome enough to have his own national holiday.
One.
After all, she shouldn’t feel that way about her new boss. And, he will be her new boss.
272 pages, Paperback
First published February 19, 2015
1472 people are currently reading
4425 people want to read
About the author
R.S. Grey
51 books11.9k followersR.S. Grey is the USA Today bestselling author of over twenty-five romantic comedies. She loves books, chocolate, reality TV, and cold weather. She lives in Texas with her husband, two daughters, and dog. Visit her at rsgrey.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 963 reviews
March 1, 2015
3 stars!
I really liked The Duet and was pretty excited to see a spinoff book about the younger Heart sister Cammie. The groundwork for this book was set up very well in The Duet, and Cammie and Grayson as a couple had such limitless potential for a smashing romance story. While I mostly enjoyed this book because it was fun and entertaining, I also have to admit that I am disappointed. I personally didn’t feel the romantic connection at all, and – I can’t believe I’m saying this – had to suspend disbelief so many times it’s a wonder I made it through the book. But see, this is a positive about R.S. Grey’s writing because there’s just something about her style that charms me, and regardless of how many faults I can come up with, I will always end up enjoying her books. And that’s what happened here. While this book probably won’t leave a lasting impression on me, it was highly entertaining, made me laugh, and was a quick read. As a reader I’m just looking to be entertained so I have to give credit where credit is due.
For the most part, I liked both of the main characters Cammie and Grayson. They’re both strong-minded people determined to achieve their individual goals no matter what. For Cammie, it’s to make enough money to head out to Paris. When she gets an interview (and later the job) at an architecture firm that Grayson owns, he lets loose the fact that he finds her attractive but has always squashed the thought because of their age difference and life goals. Somehow, this event triggers a flame in Cammie: in the time she’s working under Grayson, she’ll find a way to seduce him and get him to acknowledge that there is something between them.
I don’t know what you think, but all of that in that last paragraph made go huh and what. I mean, where’s the professionalism when Grayson drops a bomb in the middle of an interview stating how attracted he is to Cammie? Or how unfathomable is it that Cammie is suddenly so determined to win Grayson over because of this one slip? They acted like complete strangers to each other before. Anyways, this is the kind of story where plot events seriously made me scratch my head yet…I couldn’t stop reading. It was a jumble of unrealism but also so much fun to read too, and once I could set my brain aside for a while and just enjoy the book for what it’s worth, I started to appreciate the story more in all its cheesy, charming glory.
I think the lack of Grayson’s POV (especially in critical scenes where I desperately needed his thoughts) is what made me easily dismiss the romantic connection here, because to me the romance felt one-sided where Cammie was doing all the work so I did some star-docking here. However, I did like the occasionally great banter she had with Grayson and Jason and Brook’s (couple from book 1) appearances were the bomb diggity. The last 10% of the story was heartmelting, and it really wrapped up both of the Heart sisters’ stories. All in all, this was a really fun, entertaining book but because it didn’t have much depth and consequently, didn’t make me feel invested in the romance, I really can’t give it 4 or 5 stars. Still a solid story though if you’re looking for an easy, light read!
The Design is a NA romance and the 2nd Heart novel. Both this book and The Duet can be read as standalones.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked The Duet and was pretty excited to see a spinoff book about the younger Heart sister Cammie. The groundwork for this book was set up very well in The Duet, and Cammie and Grayson as a couple had such limitless potential for a smashing romance story. While I mostly enjoyed this book because it was fun and entertaining, I also have to admit that I am disappointed. I personally didn’t feel the romantic connection at all, and – I can’t believe I’m saying this – had to suspend disbelief so many times it’s a wonder I made it through the book. But see, this is a positive about R.S. Grey’s writing because there’s just something about her style that charms me, and regardless of how many faults I can come up with, I will always end up enjoying her books. And that’s what happened here. While this book probably won’t leave a lasting impression on me, it was highly entertaining, made me laugh, and was a quick read. As a reader I’m just looking to be entertained so I have to give credit where credit is due.
For the most part, I liked both of the main characters Cammie and Grayson. They’re both strong-minded people determined to achieve their individual goals no matter what. For Cammie, it’s to make enough money to head out to Paris. When she gets an interview (and later the job) at an architecture firm that Grayson owns, he lets loose the fact that he finds her attractive but has always squashed the thought because of their age difference and life goals. Somehow, this event triggers a flame in Cammie: in the time she’s working under Grayson, she’ll find a way to seduce him and get him to acknowledge that there is something between them.
I don’t know what you think, but all of that in that last paragraph made go huh and what. I mean, where’s the professionalism when Grayson drops a bomb in the middle of an interview stating how attracted he is to Cammie? Or how unfathomable is it that Cammie is suddenly so determined to win Grayson over because of this one slip? They acted like complete strangers to each other before. Anyways, this is the kind of story where plot events seriously made me scratch my head yet…I couldn’t stop reading. It was a jumble of unrealism but also so much fun to read too, and once I could set my brain aside for a while and just enjoy the book for what it’s worth, I started to appreciate the story more in all its cheesy, charming glory.
I think the lack of Grayson’s POV (especially in critical scenes where I desperately needed his thoughts) is what made me easily dismiss the romantic connection here, because to me the romance felt one-sided where Cammie was doing all the work so I did some star-docking here. However, I did like the occasionally great banter she had with Grayson and Jason and Brook’s (couple from book 1) appearances were the bomb diggity. The last 10% of the story was heartmelting, and it really wrapped up both of the Heart sisters’ stories. All in all, this was a really fun, entertaining book but because it didn’t have much depth and consequently, didn’t make me feel invested in the romance, I really can’t give it 4 or 5 stars. Still a solid story though if you’re looking for an easy, light read!
The Design is a NA romance and the 2nd Heart novel. Both this book and The Duet can be read as standalones.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2015
4 “My dog is a donut” Stars.
Grayson and Cammie know each other for many, many years. He’s best-friends with her older sister, and despite Cammie always have had a crush on him, he was always kind of indifferent towards her. Until she goes for an interview at his firm and finds out that her crush was always reciprocated, he was just better at keeping secrets.
When everything changes, will they be able to deal with the secrecy and the forbiddance of their romance, or will Cammie do what she always wanted, and finally run away from everything?
Rachel Grey books are always a very enjoyable reading to me. I love her funny and fresh writing style and the way she always deliver a sweet and romantic story.
Despite being the first half of this book annoyed with the main couple (more with Grayson), she did exactly that with this book. The second half was really sweet and I love how she does those “double epilogues”. (I’m an epilogue w**re, so I’m always up for that!).
If you’re in the mood for a sweet, sexy and funny romance, with a very light and fresh feeling, this book is a great option.
Rating: 4 Stars,
Characters Development: I really liked Cammie. How relentless she was and how she wen after what she wanted, even when Grayson were a jackass towards her. She was a strong heroine and it was refreshing to see. Grayson, was pretty good… after he took his head after his a**. Towards the end I really liked him and how he “dealt” with everything. It was really sweet to see the development of Brook and Jason’s relationship.
Steam: Some hot moments.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Grayson and Cammie know each other for many, many years. He’s best-friends with her older sister, and despite Cammie always have had a crush on him, he was always kind of indifferent towards her. Until she goes for an interview at his firm and finds out that her crush was always reciprocated, he was just better at keeping secrets.
When everything changes, will they be able to deal with the secrecy and the forbiddance of their romance, or will Cammie do what she always wanted, and finally run away from everything?
Rachel Grey books are always a very enjoyable reading to me. I love her funny and fresh writing style and the way she always deliver a sweet and romantic story.
Despite being the first half of this book annoyed with the main couple (more with Grayson), she did exactly that with this book. The second half was really sweet and I love how she does those “double epilogues”. (I’m an epilogue w**re, so I’m always up for that!).
If you’re in the mood for a sweet, sexy and funny romance, with a very light and fresh feeling, this book is a great option.
Rating: 4 Stars,
Characters Development: I really liked Cammie. How relentless she was and how she wen after what she wanted, even when Grayson were a jackass towards her. She was a strong heroine and it was refreshing to see. Grayson, was pretty good… after he took his head after his a**. Towards the end I really liked him and how he “dealt” with everything. It was really sweet to see the development of Brook and Jason’s relationship.
Steam: Some hot moments.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
February 27, 2015
4 STARS
"He was the Mr. Darcy to my Elizabeth Bennet, the Prince Charming to my Cinderella, and most importantly, the Ron Weasley to my Hermione Granger."
I really enjoyed The Duet and I was excited to see that Cammie got her own book. R.S. Grey is one of my favorite authors because she really knows how to write funny,sweet and hot stories!! And always her characters are lovable and realistic!
Cammie has just graduated from her college with a master degree in Architecture and now she's looking for a job in Grayson's firm, Cole Design. Grayson is friends with Brooklyn so he gives Cammie an opportunity to work for him. But things are strange for them as there is attraction between them and sexual tension. But Grayson can't dare to cross the line with Cameron..
Can they keep their relationship professional or will their relationship go move to another level?
Honestly at the beginning I didn't like Greyson a lot and I was concerned whether I would change my mind or not. Because I didn't know how he was feeling.But while I continued reading I changed my mind in a good way!!
As I said, he was a mystery for me but believe he will surprise us because
behind those suits and his serious behavior there is a lovable,protective,passionate,sexy and caring man.
I loved their playfull relationship as they both were in tension and this intrigued me even more.Cammie is a lovable character!She has her plan from the beginning and she wanted to prove herself showing that she can stand without Brooklyn's help!And this is what I loved in her.Also she is smart,sweet and so funny!!
I'm always excited for a new book from R.S Grey!! She is a talented author with humor!!I really love her!! I hope we will soon have more books from her!!If you have read the Duet I'm sure you find Cammie very interesting and you would like to see how things is for her...And if you haven't read a book from this author yet now is your opportunity!!
"He was the Mr. Darcy to my Elizabeth Bennet, the Prince Charming to my Cinderella, and most importantly, the Ron Weasley to my Hermione Granger."
I really enjoyed The Duet and I was excited to see that Cammie got her own book. R.S. Grey is one of my favorite authors because she really knows how to write funny,sweet and hot stories!! And always her characters are lovable and realistic!
Cammie has just graduated from her college with a master degree in Architecture and now she's looking for a job in Grayson's firm, Cole Design. Grayson is friends with Brooklyn so he gives Cammie an opportunity to work for him. But things are strange for them as there is attraction between them and sexual tension. But Grayson can't dare to cross the line with Cameron..
Can they keep their relationship professional or will their relationship go move to another level?
Honestly at the beginning I didn't like Greyson a lot and I was concerned whether I would change my mind or not. Because I didn't know how he was feeling.But while I continued reading I changed my mind in a good way!!
As I said, he was a mystery for me but believe he will surprise us because
behind those suits and his serious behavior there is a lovable,protective,passionate,sexy and caring man.
I loved their playfull relationship as they both were in tension and this intrigued me even more.Cammie is a lovable character!She has her plan from the beginning and she wanted to prove herself showing that she can stand without Brooklyn's help!And this is what I loved in her.Also she is smart,sweet and so funny!!
I'm always excited for a new book from R.S Grey!! She is a talented author with humor!!I really love her!! I hope we will soon have more books from her!!If you have read the Duet I'm sure you find Cammie very interesting and you would like to see how things is for her...And if you haven't read a book from this author yet now is your opportunity!!
Want to read
February 28, 2015
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I should probably know who Cammie and Grayson are.....but I don't!
OMG...I know who Cammie and Grayson are now!
Whoooohooooooooo!
I should probably know who Cammie and Grayson are.....but I don't!
OMG...I know who Cammie and Grayson are now!
Whoooohooooooooo!
February 28, 2015
3.5 stars!
I enjoyed R.S. Grey's The Duet (Brook and Jason's story) so much that I was excited to read Cameron and Grayson's story. These two are in a bit of frosty in the first book with Grayson not really showing any positive emotions toward Cammie, while she in turn keeps goading him into reacting. Everything comes to head when Cammie was asked to apply for a junior architect position in Grayson's company.
Instead of just seeing each other during special get together with Cammie's sister Brook, they now have to co-exist daily in the work environment. Cammie has a huge crush on Grayson, which Grayson seems oblivious to. It's a classic love-hate relationship, one that is becoming a sure win trope for me.
As usual, I loved the banter between Brook and Cammie. They didn't have as many moments together like the first book but the times that they have in the book were still funny and lovely. I love their relationship. But in this book, we see some cracks. It's not bad, it just goes to show that they are not perfect and are flawed yet they still loved each other unconditionally.
I really liked Cammie. There was a point in the book where I seriously wanted to hit her in the head for her decisions but at the same time, I really like her character. I liked that she's really not the perfect little sister in book one. I liked that she had her own dreams and aspirations that had nothing to do with Grayson. She was maddeningly tenacious and stubborn and annoying but I couldn't help but root for her.
Grayson was less developed than Cammie. I don't know if it's because the whole book was from her POV or whatever but Grayson almost felt like a placeholder character for me. The only time I really saw him shine was during one of the funniest scene of the book, which happens to be Brook and Jason's engagement party. Loved it. But other times, Grayson was just okay.
Overall, I liked this one but not as much as the first. I did like Cammie very much and some of the scenes are just laugh out loud funny. :)
I enjoyed R.S. Grey's The Duet (Brook and Jason's story) so much that I was excited to read Cameron and Grayson's story. These two are in a bit of frosty in the first book with Grayson not really showing any positive emotions toward Cammie, while she in turn keeps goading him into reacting. Everything comes to head when Cammie was asked to apply for a junior architect position in Grayson's company.
Instead of just seeing each other during special get together with Cammie's sister Brook, they now have to co-exist daily in the work environment. Cammie has a huge crush on Grayson, which Grayson seems oblivious to. It's a classic love-hate relationship, one that is becoming a sure win trope for me.
As usual, I loved the banter between Brook and Cammie. They didn't have as many moments together like the first book but the times that they have in the book were still funny and lovely. I love their relationship. But in this book, we see some cracks. It's not bad, it just goes to show that they are not perfect and are flawed yet they still loved each other unconditionally.
I really liked Cammie. There was a point in the book where I seriously wanted to hit her in the head for her decisions but at the same time, I really like her character. I liked that she's really not the perfect little sister in book one. I liked that she had her own dreams and aspirations that had nothing to do with Grayson. She was maddeningly tenacious and stubborn and annoying but I couldn't help but root for her.
Grayson was less developed than Cammie. I don't know if it's because the whole book was from her POV or whatever but Grayson almost felt like a placeholder character for me. The only time I really saw him shine was during one of the funniest scene of the book, which happens to be Brook and Jason's engagement party. Loved it. But other times, Grayson was just okay.
Overall, I liked this one but not as much as the first. I did like Cammie very much and some of the scenes are just laugh out loud funny. :)
March 14, 2015
Title: The Design
Series: Standalone
Author: R.S. Grey
Release date: 1st March, 2015
Rating: 3 "Oh vey" stars
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Cammie has always admired Grayson from afar even her career path is down in some part to him. Grayson on the other hand has always given the impression that she is no more than his best friend's little sister, never going out of his way to be overly courteous or friendly.
I have to give it to Cammie, she had guts. After Grayson made the
He wanted me to know he was unavailable. Extremely unavailable. Little did he know, I didn’t want him to be easy and available. I wanted prey.
In honesty I found it difficult to engage with either MC or their relationship as a whole and as a result in regards to the plot I felt more of a spectator than being immersed in it. However an aspect I did enjoy of their dynamic was the non existent power struggle, although Grayson was Cammie's boss she wasn't intimidated by him and gave as good as she got.
The Epilogue was rather sweet and I have to admit even though I found them exasperating at times I was glad to see them have their happy ending.
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March 23, 2015
Looks like I found myself a new author to love ...
March 15, 2015
3 "On Thin Ice Stars"
Title: The Design
Series: Heart Series #2
Author: R.S. Grey
Release date: March 1, 2015
Rating: 3 stars
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
So. The Design. Yeesh. This book did not....go as planned. But hey, who am I to predict what a book is going to be like?
I should know by now, the moment you start imagining how a book is going to go, you're just asking for trouble. Expectations burn you every time. Now, don't misunderstand, I'm not saying this was bad. But- this was not an easy read. There are some books that you consume, that consume you. You flow effortlessly from page one to end and float away on a cloudy reading euphoria. This wasn't one of those for me. It took me over half of the book to get on board with this couple and there are a couple of reasons why. Once it hooked me, I settled in and the rest came naturally.
What is the Design about? Simply put, Cammie, recently minted architect is applying to family friend Greyson's company straight out of school. They embark on a wild chase, a push and pull (mainly all the pulling by her and the pushing by him). You see, Cammie has admired Grey from afar since she was in high school, and her school girl crush has evolved to epic proportions despite his cold indifference toward her. He's so cool towards her in fact, that I began to question her sanity.
He gave the woman not a hint of warmth or encouragement so I have to say, her relentless, stubborn pursuit of his attention was off-putting to me. My personal take was that she needed to grow some lady balls and play a little hard to get. But hey, that's just me. The woman was on a mission-I would have thought Mission Impossible, but I can't fault her tenacity.
I really think if there would have been dual POV, I would have been okay with the direction the book went in the first half. But I definitely would've liked to see more character development in regards to Greyson. I needed more from him. His personality was sorely lacking and I didn't get much insight into his emotions or personality in order to endear me to him. That being said, once he started to be more accommodating with Cammie's plan of seduction, I enjoyed seeing these two mixing their business-pleasure cocktail. Emphasis on the pleasure.
Greyson came off as very intimidating and unemotional initially, but slowly thawed my doubting heart.
When they did hit the sheets, I started to seeing a side come out of Greyson I'd been searching for. Yes, he was demanding, controlling and abrupt, but finally I was seeing some tenderness and emotion pouring out of him and it made the rest of the book click into place. They had a great chemistry and I was almost picturing little architect babies running around in their (perfectly) self-designed future home.
Just as they're settled into a relationship of sorts, Cammie had to go and pull a real bonehead move and I was ready to throttle her. It left me shaking me head in bemusement. However,the book wrapped up nicely I thought, I left it on a high note so overall, it wasn't a bad read. I liked seeing Cammie, Greyson, Brooklyn (her sister) and Jason's HEA get wrapped up in a nice little tidy bow.
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Title: The Design
Series: Heart Series #2
Author: R.S. Grey
Release date: March 1, 2015
Rating: 3 stars
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
So. The Design. Yeesh. This book did not....go as planned. But hey, who am I to predict what a book is going to be like?
I should know by now, the moment you start imagining how a book is going to go, you're just asking for trouble. Expectations burn you every time. Now, don't misunderstand, I'm not saying this was bad. But- this was not an easy read. There are some books that you consume, that consume you. You flow effortlessly from page one to end and float away on a cloudy reading euphoria. This wasn't one of those for me. It took me over half of the book to get on board with this couple and there are a couple of reasons why. Once it hooked me, I settled in and the rest came naturally.
What is the Design about? Simply put, Cammie, recently minted architect is applying to family friend Greyson's company straight out of school. They embark on a wild chase, a push and pull (mainly all the pulling by her and the pushing by him). You see, Cammie has admired Grey from afar since she was in high school, and her school girl crush has evolved to epic proportions despite his cold indifference toward her. He's so cool towards her in fact, that I began to question her sanity.
He gave the woman not a hint of warmth or encouragement so I have to say, her relentless, stubborn pursuit of his attention was off-putting to me. My personal take was that she needed to grow some lady balls and play a little hard to get. But hey, that's just me. The woman was on a mission-I would have thought Mission Impossible, but I can't fault her tenacity.
I really think if there would have been dual POV, I would have been okay with the direction the book went in the first half. But I definitely would've liked to see more character development in regards to Greyson. I needed more from him. His personality was sorely lacking and I didn't get much insight into his emotions or personality in order to endear me to him. That being said, once he started to be more accommodating with Cammie's plan of seduction, I enjoyed seeing these two mixing their business-pleasure cocktail. Emphasis on the pleasure.
Greyson came off as very intimidating and unemotional initially, but slowly thawed my doubting heart.
When they did hit the sheets, I started to seeing a side come out of Greyson I'd been searching for. Yes, he was demanding, controlling and abrupt, but finally I was seeing some tenderness and emotion pouring out of him and it made the rest of the book click into place. They had a great chemistry and I was almost picturing little architect babies running around in their (perfectly) self-designed future home.
Just as they're settled into a relationship of sorts, Cammie had to go and pull a real bonehead move and I was ready to throttle her. It left me shaking me head in bemusement. However,the book wrapped up nicely I thought, I left it on a high note so overall, it wasn't a bad read. I liked seeing Cammie, Greyson, Brooklyn (her sister) and Jason's HEA get wrapped up in a nice little tidy bow.
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April 9, 2018
I really love this author. Her personality really shines through her books and I love that.
It isn't my favourite book by her, but you can definitely tell how much she's grown as a writer.
It can only get better from here on out.
It isn't my favourite book by her, but you can definitely tell how much she's grown as a writer.
It can only get better from here on out.
February 27, 2015
NOW LIVE! ✭ Amazon US: http://amzn.to/18vFCj3
"Hilarious with just enough spice to make you giddy---I loved this one." - #1NYTBestselling Author Rachel Van Dyken
"Hilarious with just enough spice to make you giddy---I loved this one." - #1NYTBestselling Author Rachel Van Dyken
March 1, 2015
Do you love a friends to lovers story? How about forbidden love? Then this is the story for you!
Grayson Cole has been apart of Cammie’s life for as long as she can remember. He is her older sister’s best friend and has always been there to help them through difficult times. Cammie has had a crush on her sisters older friend for years and he is the reason she fell in love with architecture.
Five years later, Cammie is graduating college and looking for a job when Grayson tells her to come in for an interview at his design company. Obviously Cammie needs a job period, but working for Grayson could change everything. The interview sequence is hilarious and it’s when I fell in love with Cammie. She is quirky, determined and sassy. i loved seeing how she stood up for herself and was confident even when she didn’t feel it.
"Oh my dear god. I now needed to change my panties too. Thank you, Mr. Bossman.”
The story then progresses as Cammie starts a new job where she is head over heels for her boss, Grayson, and also has to prove herself to her jerk of supervisor. Cammie is a very funny character and even during difficult moments she brought a level of freshness and fun to the story. Her inner monologue had me laughing out loud.
In the beginning I was sure how I felt about Grayson, he was so distant and cold. However, it didn’t take me long to l fall for the older, successful CEO. I couldn’t help but love a man who has looked out for and protected his friends. Oh and I loved watching him battle his feelings and then ultimately sneak around to see Cammie. Where Cammie brought an element freshness and fun, Grayson brought a serious protective side to the story.
The Design really hits all on all my favorites, it’s sexy, forbidden love, but also so incredibly sweet. In the end my only complaint was Cammie’s level of maturity. Overall, I loved Cammie, but as the story progressed I did get frustrated with her lack of maturity and her refusal to talk things out. I felt like a lot things could have been adverted or handled differently if she had been more mature and not ran away.
I highly recommend this story if you are a fan of friends to lovers or forbidden love. The Design gives you the best of both worlds.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Grayson Cole has been apart of Cammie’s life for as long as she can remember. He is her older sister’s best friend and has always been there to help them through difficult times. Cammie has had a crush on her sisters older friend for years and he is the reason she fell in love with architecture.
Five years later, Cammie is graduating college and looking for a job when Grayson tells her to come in for an interview at his design company. Obviously Cammie needs a job period, but working for Grayson could change everything. The interview sequence is hilarious and it’s when I fell in love with Cammie. She is quirky, determined and sassy. i loved seeing how she stood up for herself and was confident even when she didn’t feel it.
"Oh my dear god. I now needed to change my panties too. Thank you, Mr. Bossman.”
The story then progresses as Cammie starts a new job where she is head over heels for her boss, Grayson, and also has to prove herself to her jerk of supervisor. Cammie is a very funny character and even during difficult moments she brought a level of freshness and fun to the story. Her inner monologue had me laughing out loud.
In the beginning I was sure how I felt about Grayson, he was so distant and cold. However, it didn’t take me long to l fall for the older, successful CEO. I couldn’t help but love a man who has looked out for and protected his friends. Oh and I loved watching him battle his feelings and then ultimately sneak around to see Cammie. Where Cammie brought an element freshness and fun, Grayson brought a serious protective side to the story.
The Design really hits all on all my favorites, it’s sexy, forbidden love, but also so incredibly sweet. In the end my only complaint was Cammie’s level of maturity. Overall, I loved Cammie, but as the story progressed I did get frustrated with her lack of maturity and her refusal to talk things out. I felt like a lot things could have been adverted or handled differently if she had been more mature and not ran away.
I highly recommend this story if you are a fan of friends to lovers or forbidden love. The Design gives you the best of both worlds.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2017
An enjoyable read. Cameron has been crushing on Grayson Cole since she was a teenager. After graduation they meet again… I wish I had time to post a review. 4 solid stars!
March 13, 2015
2 stars... it was just "OK"
Well, I'll start by saying I Loved The Duet and I was really looking forward to Cammie and Grayson's story.. but this one fell really flat with me. I did like Cammie, although she came across as very juvenile at times in her actions and Grayson was just not interesting to me at all.. he had serious HOT potential but he never got there. He mostly came across as a douche. Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE the douchy jerks in books but this story really needed some Grayson pov for me to understand more of where he was coming from. Another thing that seriously bugged me was the fact that for almost the firs half of the book he . So that, plus just not liking Grayson in general, and Cammie acting juvenile.. just made this an "OK" story for me. I honestly couldn't have cared one way or the other if they got their HEA or not. OK.. now besides the fact that I didn't get all warm and fuzzy for Cammie and Grayson's story, I still liked Ms. Grey's writing style. I loved The Duet and another of her books Scoring Wilder. Both of those stories got 5 stars from me and I am definitely looking forward to reading more from her. It was just the story of Cammie and Grayson that I was disappointed in.
Well, I'll start by saying I Loved The Duet and I was really looking forward to Cammie and Grayson's story.. but this one fell really flat with me. I did like Cammie, although she came across as very juvenile at times in her actions and Grayson was just not interesting to me at all.. he had serious HOT potential but he never got there. He mostly came across as a douche. Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE the douchy jerks in books but this story really needed some Grayson pov for me to understand more of where he was coming from. Another thing that seriously bugged me was the fact that for almost the firs half of the book he . So that, plus just not liking Grayson in general, and Cammie acting juvenile.. just made this an "OK" story for me. I honestly couldn't have cared one way or the other if they got their HEA or not. OK.. now besides the fact that I didn't get all warm and fuzzy for Cammie and Grayson's story, I still liked Ms. Grey's writing style. I loved The Duet and another of her books Scoring Wilder. Both of those stories got 5 stars from me and I am definitely looking forward to reading more from her. It was just the story of Cammie and Grayson that I was disappointed in.
March 26, 2015
The basic premise of the book drew me in, so much so that I tried REALLY HARD to enjoy this book.
I liked the idea of a story featuring a young girl, secretly in love with an older guy, who can finally pursue her Crush/Unrequited-Love now that she's an educated professional Grown-up.
The problem(s) with this story is that the characters (particularly the protagonist) were seriously annoying, the INSTA-LUST was tedious, and the appalling writing style (tries way too hard to be hip, but it was just insipid).
I loathed all of the characters (with the exception of the Ginger, bushy-bearded colleague).
The events in the book were random, NO LOGICAL SENSE, the characters motives (from Greyson to Cammie) were hardly plausible (pointless meanderings), and there was a serious lack of chemistry and romance. No build-up of attraction, no brewing tension or "getting to know each other" phase. You're just told in summery that they fancy each other. That's it.
I also didn't see why either character developed feelings for the other. They rarely had any conversations to stimulate an intellectual or even spiritual connection. Their interactions were the melodramatic cringe-worthy kind that involved unwarranted hostility and irrational jealousy that simply made no sense.
The author has appeared to recycle the formulaic clichés without any creative thought – just randomly placing melodramatic scenarios with unwarranted angst and pages of tedious monologues in the hope of producing a romance. A poor attempt to "spice" up the story.
It was tragically inept as I felt nothing but bewilderment and annoyance.
=========================
The Characters
Cammie (Cameroon) Heart: 22 yo, architect graduate with a serious attitude problem. Her unprofessionalism, spoiled entitlement attitude, selfishness and intellectually-challenging rude behaviour was off-putting.
She's vapid, tries too hard to talk "hip" but only sounded pathetically stupid and spoiled (verbal diarrhoea is too kind).
She insists on “making her own way” however, that doesn’t stop her accepting a job from her sister’s best friend. And she really doesn’t act like the humble person she claims to be. Her behaviour is rude – not professional. I enjoy reading about women standing up for themselves but preferably using their brains, not stamping their foot and throwing Diva tantrums.
When someone isn't convenient to her (or causes her to suffer irrational jealous rages), she simply blows them off.
First it was with her room-mate (whom she hates for fancying Grayson, because only she's allowed to fancy him).
Then there was the Accountant dude her sister tried to set her up with (but he wasn't convenient anymore so rather than being gracious she rudely blows him off).
I was appalled by her snobbish attitude towards other people's jobs from the Receptionist (too lowly), Interior Designers (too girly) to the Accountant (too dull).
Her despicable opinion about Accountants because they're not exciting CEO's of architectural firms (Grayson) or Pop Stars (Jason) was uncalled for. Respect and tolerance appears to be a one way street.
Cammie is also one of those girls who views other woman as competition. She appears to have no other friends than her BIMBO-sister (who is one of those oh-so-"adorable"-Pop-Princess-GIRLY-GIRL-hehe-giggle types that you want to slap).
Grayson: 29 yo CEO of his own architectural company, tall, dark handsome rich cliché. There really wasn't much else to him - very one-dimensional. He rarely says anything that's interesting and his behaviour was bewildering. It's also a surprise how he managed to become CEO when he appears to have time to interview lowly graduate hires and lunch-time rendezvous with his paramours (professional conduct anyone???).
There were loads more irregularities but there's simply no point getting in to it. But I did roll my eyes throughout the book at how ridiculous it was. Grayson was as interesting as an inanimate object.
=================================
The Romance:
This was a farce.
Cammie spends the first half (or more) swooning and then chasing Grayson. It’s INSTA-LUST with very little chemistry. So many times I wanted to slap some self-respect and intelligence into her.
She even has random conversations with Greyson’s mother (who makes a very CONVENIENT appearance ONCE in the book), encounters Cammie and proceeds to share Grayson's life story with her and then randomly entrusts Cammie after this one conversation to "take care" of her son (including making a few CONVENIENTLY opportune phone calls to Cammie after this event) Like who does that? The randomness was as farcical as the rest of the book.
There is so much wrong with this book that typing it all up is tedious.
I liked the idea of a story featuring a young girl, secretly in love with an older guy, who can finally pursue her Crush/Unrequited-Love now that she's an educated professional Grown-up.
The problem(s) with this story is that the characters (particularly the protagonist) were seriously annoying, the INSTA-LUST was tedious, and the appalling writing style (tries way too hard to be hip, but it was just insipid).
I loathed all of the characters (with the exception of the Ginger, bushy-bearded colleague).
The events in the book were random, NO LOGICAL SENSE, the characters motives (from Greyson to Cammie) were hardly plausible (pointless meanderings), and there was a serious lack of chemistry and romance. No build-up of attraction, no brewing tension or "getting to know each other" phase. You're just told in summery that they fancy each other. That's it.
I also didn't see why either character developed feelings for the other. They rarely had any conversations to stimulate an intellectual or even spiritual connection. Their interactions were the melodramatic cringe-worthy kind that involved unwarranted hostility and irrational jealousy that simply made no sense.
The author has appeared to recycle the formulaic clichés without any creative thought – just randomly placing melodramatic scenarios with unwarranted angst and pages of tedious monologues in the hope of producing a romance. A poor attempt to "spice" up the story.
It was tragically inept as I felt nothing but bewilderment and annoyance.
=========================
The Characters
Cammie (Cameroon) Heart: 22 yo, architect graduate with a serious attitude problem. Her unprofessionalism, spoiled entitlement attitude, selfishness and intellectually-challenging rude behaviour was off-putting.
She's vapid, tries too hard to talk "hip" but only sounded pathetically stupid and spoiled (verbal diarrhoea is too kind).
She insists on “making her own way” however, that doesn’t stop her accepting a job from her sister’s best friend. And she really doesn’t act like the humble person she claims to be. Her behaviour is rude – not professional. I enjoy reading about women standing up for themselves but preferably using their brains, not stamping their foot and throwing Diva tantrums.
When someone isn't convenient to her (or causes her to suffer irrational jealous rages), she simply blows them off.
First it was with her room-mate (whom she hates for fancying Grayson, because only she's allowed to fancy him).
Then there was the Accountant dude her sister tried to set her up with (but he wasn't convenient anymore so rather than being gracious she rudely blows him off).
I was appalled by her snobbish attitude towards other people's jobs from the Receptionist (too lowly), Interior Designers (too girly) to the Accountant (too dull).
Her despicable opinion about Accountants because they're not exciting CEO's of architectural firms (Grayson) or Pop Stars (Jason) was uncalled for. Respect and tolerance appears to be a one way street.
Cammie is also one of those girls who views other woman as competition. She appears to have no other friends than her BIMBO-sister (who is one of those oh-so-"adorable"-Pop-Princess-GIRLY-GIRL-hehe-giggle types that you want to slap).
Grayson: 29 yo CEO of his own architectural company, tall, dark handsome rich cliché. There really wasn't much else to him - very one-dimensional. He rarely says anything that's interesting and his behaviour was bewildering. It's also a surprise how he managed to become CEO when he appears to have time to interview lowly graduate hires and lunch-time rendezvous with his paramours (professional conduct anyone???).
There were loads more irregularities but there's simply no point getting in to it. But I did roll my eyes throughout the book at how ridiculous it was. Grayson was as interesting as an inanimate object.
=================================
The Romance:
This was a farce.
Cammie spends the first half (or more) swooning and then chasing Grayson. It’s INSTA-LUST with very little chemistry. So many times I wanted to slap some self-respect and intelligence into her.
She even has random conversations with Greyson’s mother (who makes a very CONVENIENT appearance ONCE in the book), encounters Cammie and proceeds to share Grayson's life story with her and then randomly entrusts Cammie after this one conversation to "take care" of her son (including making a few CONVENIENTLY opportune phone calls to Cammie after this event) Like who does that? The randomness was as farcical as the rest of the book.
There is so much wrong with this book that typing it all up is tedious.
Read
March 9, 2015Not What I Expected...
I went into this thinking it was going to be two characters I would like over all. Unfortunately, I could not fall for either of them. The concept made sense but Cammie's personality and actions were difficult for me. Grayson's behavior didn't please me either.
I could just be a sourpuss so please do not let my opinion be the only one considered. There are many reviews out there which have terrific, positive things to say. That is the beauty of reading.
I went into this thinking it was going to be two characters I would like over all. Unfortunately, I could not fall for either of them. The concept made sense but Cammie's personality and actions were difficult for me. Grayson's behavior didn't please me either.
I could just be a sourpuss so please do not let my opinion be the only one considered. There are many reviews out there which have terrific, positive things to say. That is the beauty of reading.
October 29, 2017
2.5 stars
Overall, this is a fun little book but the fact that I couldn't connect with neither Cameron nor Grayson kind of ruined the experience for me. The story itself is interesting and R.S. Grey's writing style is standardly good and easy to read but something about these two irked me the entire time. They're not bad characters and I generally liked their banter and the chemistry they had but some of their actions irritated me a lot and made no sense, hence the 2.5 star rating, unfortunately.
Overall, this is a fun little book but the fact that I couldn't connect with neither Cameron nor Grayson kind of ruined the experience for me. The story itself is interesting and R.S. Grey's writing style is standardly good and easy to read but something about these two irked me the entire time. They're not bad characters and I generally liked their banter and the chemistry they had but some of their actions irritated me a lot and made no sense, hence the 2.5 star rating, unfortunately.
December 21, 2025
The lead in this is one of the silliest I've ever read...
(I really don't want to sound disrespectful to the author; I almost read every book by her but the Cameron, FL, in this just got on my nerves.)
Other things that couldn't uplift this book were a boring male lead, a lack of fun situations and side characters.
(I really don't want to sound disrespectful to the author; I almost read every book by her but the Cameron, FL, in this just got on my nerves.)
Other things that couldn't uplift this book were a boring male lead, a lack of fun situations and side characters.
Read
July 21, 2015FREAKING LOVVVEDDDDD it.
Grayson.
Grayson.
Grayson.
Lord, did he start out as the worlds biggest jerk. Hahahaha! But he came around and when he did it was brilliant. I LOVE this author. I want to read EVERY book! Just great.
Grayson.
Grayson.
Grayson.
Lord, did he start out as the worlds biggest jerk. Hahahaha! But he came around and when he did it was brilliant. I LOVE this author. I want to read EVERY book! Just great.
March 5, 2015
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review
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If you must know, I am a big fan R.S. Grey fan!! There is no ifs, ands, or buts about it that I simply adore and love this author. I have a been a fan of her books since I read With This Heart. Well to say I was excited for The Design would be an understatement because I freaking couldn't wait to get my grabby hands on this book since I am a big fan of unrequited love and friends to lover stories.
R.S. Grey is one of those authors that always put her heart, quirks and personality into her books and The Design was no exception. This book was screaming R.S. Grey when you comes across humor and pop culture reference. The Design was definitely a romantic comedy book that will have you laughing at the playful banter and sarcasm, and squealing at the sweet and sexy moments. And of course, there are times in the book that will have you frustrated with Cammie and Grayson. Trust me they will but at the same time these two somehow manage to ease your frustration with their humor, wit, and smartass personality.
For years, Cammie has always had a crush on Grayson Cole, her older sister's friend. If I was to describe Grayson and Cammie's relationship, it would simpley be a mixture of hot and cold. In all honesty, he would give any girl a whiplash with the mixed signals he was sending Cammie. But what Cammie wants is for Grayson to take notice her and see her as a grown adult and not the baby naive sister of Brookyln. So when Grayson hires Cammie to work in his company, their relationship takes on a whole new turn. Can Cammie make Grayson see her as a woman? And will Grayson finally let his guard down and show that Cammie means so much more to him than just an employee and friend?
What I truly enjoyed about this book was the quirky personalities of the characters. Yes, there were times I wanted to slap Grayson and Cammie to stop playing these games with each other. But I understood Grayson's hesitation of crossing that line with Cammie because once he crossed that invisible line I knew things were about to get blurred when they went from friends to lovers. And as for Cammie, I wished at times she would have been a little bit more stronger when it came to Grayson since she practically handed herself to him. But like all relationships, no one is perfect and Cammie and Grayson are far from perfect and that's what makes them so honest, raw, and vulnerable. So if you are looking for a book that screamed fun playful romance and witty dialogue then go read The Design by R.S. Grey. <3
R.S. Grey
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[image error]
If you must know, I am a big fan R.S. Grey fan!! There is no ifs, ands, or buts about it that I simply adore and love this author. I have a been a fan of her books since I read With This Heart. Well to say I was excited for The Design would be an understatement because I freaking couldn't wait to get my grabby hands on this book since I am a big fan of unrequited love and friends to lover stories.
R.S. Grey is one of those authors that always put her heart, quirks and personality into her books and The Design was no exception. This book was screaming R.S. Grey when you comes across humor and pop culture reference. The Design was definitely a romantic comedy book that will have you laughing at the playful banter and sarcasm, and squealing at the sweet and sexy moments. And of course, there are times in the book that will have you frustrated with Cammie and Grayson. Trust me they will but at the same time these two somehow manage to ease your frustration with their humor, wit, and smartass personality.
For years, Cammie has always had a crush on Grayson Cole, her older sister's friend. If I was to describe Grayson and Cammie's relationship, it would simpley be a mixture of hot and cold. In all honesty, he would give any girl a whiplash with the mixed signals he was sending Cammie. But what Cammie wants is for Grayson to take notice her and see her as a grown adult and not the baby naive sister of Brookyln. So when Grayson hires Cammie to work in his company, their relationship takes on a whole new turn. Can Cammie make Grayson see her as a woman? And will Grayson finally let his guard down and show that Cammie means so much more to him than just an employee and friend?
What I truly enjoyed about this book was the quirky personalities of the characters. Yes, there were times I wanted to slap Grayson and Cammie to stop playing these games with each other. But I understood Grayson's hesitation of crossing that line with Cammie because once he crossed that invisible line I knew things were about to get blurred when they went from friends to lovers. And as for Cammie, I wished at times she would have been a little bit more stronger when it came to Grayson since she practically handed herself to him. But like all relationships, no one is perfect and Cammie and Grayson are far from perfect and that's what makes them so honest, raw, and vulnerable. So if you are looking for a book that screamed fun playful romance and witty dialogue then go read The Design by R.S. Grey. <3
R.S. Grey
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June 13, 2021
im sorry but this was one of the worst books i've ever read, i almost couldn't believe it. could this heroine be any more unprofessional?? does she realize she goes to work to actually i dont know, work, and not to seduce her boss? he told her so many times to chill and girl would. not. eck this was def my least fav book by this author.
August 30, 2016
I haven't read the Duet, so my review is solely based on this book.
Frankly, Cameron will always be the naive employe who fell in love with her CEO. An over-used cliche storyline.
There was so much wrongness and illogical sense, I don't even think I can be bothered to list everything.
50% of the book, they didn't talk. He paraded the women he went on dates with and fucked. Honestly what kind of CEO has time for that?
50% she was judgemental of other people's professions and was non-professional herself.
70% he was a downright asshole to her and treated her like actual shit. Demeaning behaviour. Doormat heroines don't appeal to me. He was cold, and had a stick up the ass which never really left.
10% she raved on about their chemistry. I didn't feel it. We were just told. Their making out scenes were mediocre at best. It seemed she admired his work practice more than him. They hardly talk!
10% Grayson went on and on about how she was too young. 8 years younger. And he won't break the employe/boss non-fraternisation code. Hah to both. Whatever...
He didn't redeem himself in my eyes or work hard enough for her. And suddenly she disappears out of the blue to Paris for 2 months and on her return he proposes!? He acted angry, and brought another date to her sister's engagement announcement all the while carrying a gold ring in his pocket. Seemed dumb and a little late.
1* not for me.
Frankly, Cameron will always be the naive employe who fell in love with her CEO. An over-used cliche storyline.
There was so much wrongness and illogical sense, I don't even think I can be bothered to list everything.
50% of the book, they didn't talk. He paraded the women he went on dates with and fucked. Honestly what kind of CEO has time for that?
50% she was judgemental of other people's professions and was non-professional herself.
70% he was a downright asshole to her and treated her like actual shit. Demeaning behaviour. Doormat heroines don't appeal to me. He was cold, and had a stick up the ass which never really left.
10% she raved on about their chemistry. I didn't feel it. We were just told. Their making out scenes were mediocre at best. It seemed she admired his work practice more than him. They hardly talk!
10% Grayson went on and on about how she was too young. 8 years younger. And he won't break the employe/boss non-fraternisation code. Hah to both. Whatever...
He didn't redeem himself in my eyes or work hard enough for her. And suddenly she disappears out of the blue to Paris for 2 months and on her return he proposes!? He acted angry, and brought another date to her sister's engagement announcement all the while carrying a gold ring in his pocket. Seemed dumb and a little late.
1* not for me.
May 26, 2017
3.5
Overall it was an enjoyable read! What I really enjoyed was the relationship between Cammie and her sister Brooklyn, both were strong and smart. Butttt, Cammie did get a bit annoying, I felt as though she turned from this head strong 22 kick ass chick with a masters into a whiny can't take no for an answer stalker. I mean you're practically crawling up the man's ass! How many more times does he have to tell you he does not date his employees?!
That is what bothered me, but then once Grayson put his big girl panties on it got interesting, until Cammie got hers all in a bunch...
Read
March 25, 2023This isn’t my type of book. As much as I’ve mostly liked this author’s writing, this book falls short in many ways. The biggest problem I have is that the hero spends a nice large chunk of the book fucking another woman in his office while the heroine is there working. This is just gross imo, and shows how little respect the heroine has for herself since she continues to chase after him. Not my thing at all, I prefer a strong heroine.
March 2, 2015
It was a bit too light & fluffy for me and overall the story was a bit lacking in my opinion also. The heroine is a pain in the ass so prepare for that if you are planning on reading it.
March 3, 2015
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
The Design is by far Ms. Grey's most unimaginative, most boring, and most formulaic novel to date. I've picked it up 10 different times within the last 2 days only to get extremely bored within 10 minutes and put it down. I'm not even sure how many times I considered DNF'ing it.
I love RS Grey. I think she's one of the nicest, most fan friendly, and cutest new authors out there. If I were staring books based on how much I wish the author would be my best friend, I'd give all of her books 11 stars because I love her that much. Unfortunately, that's not what it's about. I am approximately 25% of the way through it and am very confident that if I somehow manage to finish it will not be getting more then one or two stars from me.
The Design is pretty standard NA fiction, but it lacks excitement. There's no subtly and the first 15% of the book is a "telling not showing" of Cammie's super boring life.
I can get into a super cheesy New Adult novel. Sometimes I'm reading something and I know it's kind of bad. It's cheesy and unrealistic, but I'm so GD entertained that I DGAF. This is not one of those books. This book is cheesy and formulaic, but boring as all get out. I already know what's going to happen because Grayson made that weirdo, probably illegal, declaration after the interview. It's like watching a movie after reading a detailed plot summary on wikipedia. Why bother?
Additionally, I don't feel like any of the characters in this series have come to life. Brooklyn, Jason, Hannah, Cammie, Grayson- they're all 2 dimensional. Brooklyn and Cammie have extremely similar voices and come off as self-absorbed and materialistic. Most of Cammie's inner-monologue to this point has been about what clothes she's going to wear and how she's going to use her body to get Grayson to look at her.
I'm sorry. I'm just not into it. I'm going to continue to attempt to get into this and finish it over the course of the next couple of days and add to this review as I do, but if I don't manage this will serve as my unrated review.
3/2/14 EDIT:
I did end up finishing this and it did not get better. I think the thing I had most loved about RS Grey's novels is that they seemed real. The characters acted realistically. That's not the case with The Design. It was super cheesy and unrealistic. The whole climax and resolution of this book was totally preposterous and it made me mad.
It was also a total snooze fest. There wasn't one single paragraph that didn't totally bore me.
Avoid this book and read With This Heart.
The Design is by far Ms. Grey's most unimaginative, most boring, and most formulaic novel to date. I've picked it up 10 different times within the last 2 days only to get extremely bored within 10 minutes and put it down. I'm not even sure how many times I considered DNF'ing it.
I love RS Grey. I think she's one of the nicest, most fan friendly, and cutest new authors out there. If I were staring books based on how much I wish the author would be my best friend, I'd give all of her books 11 stars because I love her that much. Unfortunately, that's not what it's about. I am approximately 25% of the way through it and am very confident that if I somehow manage to finish it will not be getting more then one or two stars from me.
The Design is pretty standard NA fiction, but it lacks excitement. There's no subtly and the first 15% of the book is a "telling not showing" of Cammie's super boring life.
I can get into a super cheesy New Adult novel. Sometimes I'm reading something and I know it's kind of bad. It's cheesy and unrealistic, but I'm so GD entertained that I DGAF. This is not one of those books. This book is cheesy and formulaic, but boring as all get out. I already know what's going to happen because Grayson made that weirdo, probably illegal, declaration after the interview. It's like watching a movie after reading a detailed plot summary on wikipedia. Why bother?
Additionally, I don't feel like any of the characters in this series have come to life. Brooklyn, Jason, Hannah, Cammie, Grayson- they're all 2 dimensional. Brooklyn and Cammie have extremely similar voices and come off as self-absorbed and materialistic. Most of Cammie's inner-monologue to this point has been about what clothes she's going to wear and how she's going to use her body to get Grayson to look at her.
I'm sorry. I'm just not into it. I'm going to continue to attempt to get into this and finish it over the course of the next couple of days and add to this review as I do, but if I don't manage this will serve as my unrated review.
3/2/14 EDIT:
I did end up finishing this and it did not get better. I think the thing I had most loved about RS Grey's novels is that they seemed real. The characters acted realistically. That's not the case with The Design. It was super cheesy and unrealistic. The whole climax and resolution of this book was totally preposterous and it made me mad.
It was also a total snooze fest. There wasn't one single paragraph that didn't totally bore me.
Avoid this book and read With This Heart.
October 23, 2016
1.5
Ai, por onde começar? Pela estória boba, pela protagonista imatura ou por todos os problemas de feminismo do livro?
É sempre assim quando entro em um momento gula de romance. O primeiro livro vai bem, mas o segundo sempre me deixa com azia. Esse foi muito difícil de terminar. Queria abandonar quando estava com 52%, mas tinha feito uma promessa para mim mesma que não faria mais isso até o final do ano. Por isso, persisti.
A premissa do livro era básica, mas uma que sempre funciona comigo. Atração antiga que vêm à tona no presente. É um variante do clichê amor do passado que retorna, que eu adoro. Infelizmente a execução dela foi péssima nesse livro.
O desenvolvimento da estória é muito bobo e exatamente o que já li em 300 outros livros de romance. Bocejos mil só com esse fator.
Depois a protagonista é MUITO imatura. Muito mesmo! O que me deixou mais com raiva ainda foi que a autora coloca as atitudes dela como fofinhas, ao invés de dar o nome correto aos bois, a garota é insuportavelmente infantil. E no final ela ainda faz o cúmulo da pessoa imatura e foge dos problemas. Literalmente foge!
O herói é do tipo possessivo e controlador. Esse último sendo a grande razão do conflito desenvolvido no final do livro para coloca-los no fundo do poço antes de finalmente ficarem juntos para sempre. Não suportei o Grayson. O mais ridículo de tudo foi que ele saiu de dizer não para as "seduções" dela para quase fazer sexo com ela na escada do escritório dele como se tivesse acionado um interruptor. Foi DO NADA!!
Além desses problemas já serem o suficientes para eu desgostar do livro, a cereja no topo do bolo foram os momentos machistas do livro. Entre exemplos que posso citar estão: o protagonista possessivo e meio stalker ser considerado como benevolente por estar "zelando" pela protagonista, a única outra personagem feminina relevante na estória além da sua irmã é posicionada como competidora pela atenção do herói e quando a protagonista se veste de forma um pouco mais provocativa no trabalho ela é chamada atenção e uma reunião é cancelada por causa disso.
O mais engraçado de tudo é que a briga do final é teoricamente para ser sobre o empoderamento da protagonista, mas a hipocrisia do livro já era tão grande que o impacto da mensagem foi como levar um tapa na cara com uma pena. Ou seja, zero.
Sorte que peguei esse livro pelo meu teste gratuito do Kindle Unlimited, porque teria ficado muito brava de gastar dinheiro nele...
Vou agora voltar para a minha programação normal de leitura e daqui alguns meses nos vemos de novo aqui. Eu insistindo em ler romances e depois reclamando deles para vocês. #sorrynotsorry
Ai, por onde começar? Pela estória boba, pela protagonista imatura ou por todos os problemas de feminismo do livro?
É sempre assim quando entro em um momento gula de romance. O primeiro livro vai bem, mas o segundo sempre me deixa com azia. Esse foi muito difícil de terminar. Queria abandonar quando estava com 52%, mas tinha feito uma promessa para mim mesma que não faria mais isso até o final do ano. Por isso, persisti.
A premissa do livro era básica, mas uma que sempre funciona comigo. Atração antiga que vêm à tona no presente. É um variante do clichê amor do passado que retorna, que eu adoro. Infelizmente a execução dela foi péssima nesse livro.
O desenvolvimento da estória é muito bobo e exatamente o que já li em 300 outros livros de romance. Bocejos mil só com esse fator.
Depois a protagonista é MUITO imatura. Muito mesmo! O que me deixou mais com raiva ainda foi que a autora coloca as atitudes dela como fofinhas, ao invés de dar o nome correto aos bois, a garota é insuportavelmente infantil. E no final ela ainda faz o cúmulo da pessoa imatura e foge dos problemas. Literalmente foge!
O herói é do tipo possessivo e controlador. Esse último sendo a grande razão do conflito desenvolvido no final do livro para coloca-los no fundo do poço antes de finalmente ficarem juntos para sempre. Não suportei o Grayson. O mais ridículo de tudo foi que ele saiu de dizer não para as "seduções" dela para quase fazer sexo com ela na escada do escritório dele como se tivesse acionado um interruptor. Foi DO NADA!!
Além desses problemas já serem o suficientes para eu desgostar do livro, a cereja no topo do bolo foram os momentos machistas do livro. Entre exemplos que posso citar estão: o protagonista possessivo e meio stalker ser considerado como benevolente por estar "zelando" pela protagonista, a única outra personagem feminina relevante na estória além da sua irmã é posicionada como competidora pela atenção do herói e quando a protagonista se veste de forma um pouco mais provocativa no trabalho ela é chamada atenção e uma reunião é cancelada por causa disso.
O mais engraçado de tudo é que a briga do final é teoricamente para ser sobre o empoderamento da protagonista, mas a hipocrisia do livro já era tão grande que o impacto da mensagem foi como levar um tapa na cara com uma pena. Ou seja, zero.
Sorte que peguei esse livro pelo meu teste gratuito do Kindle Unlimited, porque teria ficado muito brava de gastar dinheiro nele...
Vou agora voltar para a minha programação normal de leitura e daqui alguns meses nos vemos de novo aqui. Eu insistindo em ler romances e depois reclamando deles para vocês. #sorrynotsorry
May 31, 2019
THE DESIGN is the second book I’ve read by RS Grey and I’ve come to realise that I absolutely love her writing! This book was sweet and funny, with fairly low drama, which was exactly what I needed to get me out of a serious book funk! Cammie and Grayson were brilliant and I adored their banter and the development of their relationship. All in all, a fab read and I’m glad I picked this one up!!
July 17, 2019
This author can always get me out of a book slump.
Another great R.S. Grey read.
Another great R.S. Grey read.
April 23, 2016
Another fantastic book by R.S. Grey. I absolutely love the forbidden romance books and that's exactly what I got with this book. A forbidden romance along with a little comedy and some angst, mixed together and we have a recipe for success all for me.
Cameron "Cammie" Heart is the little sister to Brooklyn Heart from The Duet. I have not read Brooklyn's story yet, but plan to soon. Cammie has had a crush on her sister's best friend, Grayson Cole, from the moment she saw him. She first met him when she was a senior in high school. With an eight year age difference between them, she knew she could only look. But when she overheard Grayson talking to Brooklyn about becoming an architect it spurred her into making a decision about her future. She wanted to be an architect too, to become successful and to prove herself.
Cammie has seen Grayson here and there throughout her college experience, but he's always been standoffish and impossible to talk to. Graduating from college with a masters degree in architecture, she's completely thrown back when Grayson approaches her to offer her an opportunity to interview for a position at his company. Her plan was to work until she had enough money saved to buy a one-way ticket to Paris, but this seems like the perfect solution. She gets to earn some money while eyeing her secret crush.
What she wasn't expecting was for Grayson to admit that he has had feelings for her for a while now. Enter the forbidden part - not only is he her sister's best friend, he is now her boss too.
But he'd decided that he wasn't going to act on those feelings. Well, she would just see about that. She had a mission now. She was going to seduce him. She'd pull out every trick she could to make him act on those feelings he has for her. When he decided to parade women into his office for "lunch" or tell her about other women, it made her jealous, but it also just made her try harder. She was bold and said whatever was on her mind.
Cammie chased after him for a little bit, but once he really pissed her off she stopped chasing him. Soon the tables were turned and Grayson was chasing her. They did some heavy flirting before crossing that line, but eventually the pull was too great for either of them.
Things seem to be going well for these two until Cammie does something that has major repercussions. Will the result be too much for them to get through or will they become stronger than ever?
I loved how strong of a character Cammie is. Her immediate supervisor is a real douche, but she doesn't let it get her down. She has to work with him, but she also uses this opportunity to prove that she knows what she's doing and can get the work done. I will say that I didn't like Hannah from the beginning. Something about her put me off and then when she went all crazy about Grayson I knew she wasn't right. The only thing missing for me was Grayson's POV. I would have loved to have his side of the story in this one.
Once again, Grey gives us another sweet, sexy and funny romance that will leave a smile on your face. I'm working my way through all of this author's works, but I would highly recommend her to anyone whose looking for a lighthearted funny read.
Cameron "Cammie" Heart is the little sister to Brooklyn Heart from The Duet. I have not read Brooklyn's story yet, but plan to soon. Cammie has had a crush on her sister's best friend, Grayson Cole, from the moment she saw him. She first met him when she was a senior in high school. With an eight year age difference between them, she knew she could only look. But when she overheard Grayson talking to Brooklyn about becoming an architect it spurred her into making a decision about her future. She wanted to be an architect too, to become successful and to prove herself.
Cammie has seen Grayson here and there throughout her college experience, but he's always been standoffish and impossible to talk to. Graduating from college with a masters degree in architecture, she's completely thrown back when Grayson approaches her to offer her an opportunity to interview for a position at his company. Her plan was to work until she had enough money saved to buy a one-way ticket to Paris, but this seems like the perfect solution. She gets to earn some money while eyeing her secret crush.
What she wasn't expecting was for Grayson to admit that he has had feelings for her for a while now. Enter the forbidden part - not only is he her sister's best friend, he is now her boss too.
"Despite my best efforts to rid myself of it, I've always had an attraction for you, Cameron. I've ignored that desire, mainly because you're too young for me. Now it's more inappropriate than ever."
But he'd decided that he wasn't going to act on those feelings. Well, she would just see about that. She had a mission now. She was going to seduce him. She'd pull out every trick she could to make him act on those feelings he has for her. When he decided to parade women into his office for "lunch" or tell her about other women, it made her jealous, but it also just made her try harder. She was bold and said whatever was on her mind.
Cammie chased after him for a little bit, but once he really pissed her off she stopped chasing him. Soon the tables were turned and Grayson was chasing her. They did some heavy flirting before crossing that line, but eventually the pull was too great for either of them.
Things seem to be going well for these two until Cammie does something that has major repercussions. Will the result be too much for them to get through or will they become stronger than ever?
I loved how strong of a character Cammie is. Her immediate supervisor is a real douche, but she doesn't let it get her down. She has to work with him, but she also uses this opportunity to prove that she knows what she's doing and can get the work done. I will say that I didn't like Hannah from the beginning. Something about her put me off and then when she went all crazy about Grayson I knew she wasn't right. The only thing missing for me was Grayson's POV. I would have loved to have his side of the story in this one.
Once again, Grey gives us another sweet, sexy and funny romance that will leave a smile on your face. I'm working my way through all of this author's works, but I would highly recommend her to anyone whose looking for a lighthearted funny read.
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