MELTING for this moment 🫠🥺

When I first got into the fake dating romance niche, I was often drawn to stories that combined humor with emotional depth, and "Design and Desire" seems to fit right into that. The exchange where she softly asks, "What would you do right now, if this was never pretend?" and his heartfelt response really captures the essence of a believable slow burn romance. That tension between pretense and genuine emotions makes these stories so engaging. Set in Italy, near Brescia, and featuring a plus-size male main character (MMC), this book offers representation that I find refreshing and important in contemporary romance. The forced proximity and single-bed situations are classic tropes that, when done well, add layers of intimacy and banter that keep readers hooked. From my experience, summer romances with a fake dating premise often bring a mix of playful teasing and heartfelt moments that build a strong connection between characters. The relatable dislike-to-lovers journey makes the transformation feel earned, not rushed. Plus, the backdrop of Italy adds a dreamy vibe that enhances the romantic tension. If you enjoy books that balance humor with emotional sincerity and have been looking for inclusive stories with realistic relationships, "Design and Desire" will likely become a new favorite. Marking June 1 for its release is essential because it promises a fresh take on these beloved tropes. Don’t forget to add it to your TBR list and join communities like #lemon8bookclub where you can share your thoughts and find fellow fans!