Designing for a Royal is the third book in the Unexpected Royals series by Tomi Tabb, but can technically be read as a standalone novel. While I say it can be read as a standalone, I really think it's best for you to start from the beginning. That way you know who Clara and David are, as well as Eddie and Amanda. There is history here that needs to be understood. So do what you want with that info.
Clarissa Lee is a designer who has been struggling. That is until the day that Clara Little stepped into her shop, and changed Clarissa's life. All it took was her wearing some of the clothing Clarissa had created, and it was an instantaneous change. Flash forward a little bit, and Clarissa has been tapped for a major project. One night as she arrives home, things just begin to unravel. Not only did she get stuck in the rain, but now her door won't open. Oh and for added issues, the handle fell off the door. Patrick comes to the rescue, and it is revealed that he is her next door neighbor. Patrick doesn't share much about his "job" as that has been an issue in the past where women want him for his title. What he does reveal is that he loves to cook, and can be quite handy. He's also intelligent, a bit funny, and an overall great person. He and Clarissa become friends, and he has made it his mission to make sure she has a home cooked meal on the regular. This friendship is slowly evolving into more. Can these friends become lovers? Also who is breaking into Clarissa's shops, and her apartment? Will she get these dresses completed in time?
Designing for a Royal was such a sweet romance. I have truly fallen for this series, and am so thankful that I had the opportunity to read an advanced copy. This book was so much more than just a romance novel. Yes, that was the primary focus, but not the sole focus. There was also the design aspect and how Clarissa found her inspiration. There was the family drama surrounding Clarissa and her parents. Add in the past relationship issues that both Clarissa and Patrick were dealing with, and how they overcame those. The big one though was everything surrounding Clara and David's wedding. From the initial consult with the dresses, to the time frame, to the stress, to the break-ins, to the thefts, to just all the chaos that it all caused. It was a lot, but at the same time it wasn't. Because Clarissa learned that she could lean on others. She could trust them with her designs, and let them use their talents to create these pieces. It also showed her friendship with her business partner, how that relationship grew, and eventually how her partner branched out. It was just all really good. The storyline flowed wonderfully, the characters are fabulous, and the setting cannot be beat.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again. If you've read the Modern Royals series by Aven Ellis, then you will absolutely enjoy the Unexpected Royals from Tomi Tabb. If you are a fan of sweet royal romances, then please check this series out. I think you'll enjoy the books.
Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts,
Laura
Her personal life, however, is another story. After the scars of a past relationship, Clarissa closed her heart off to the world, afraid to trust again.
Patrick Nelson, the Earl of Renbrook, understands what it is like to be broken. It has been two years since his last relationship and his father’s untimely death. When his mother announces she has remarried, Patrick seeks to escape the family estate. A meeting in London with his childhood friend, the Duke of Leeds, provides the perfect excuse.
When Clarissa and Patrick unexpectedly meet, sparks fly. Together can they learn to conquer the past and that love may be in the cards for them after all?
A year ago, Clarissa Lee was an unknown, struggling London based fashion designer, until receiving a surprise phone call from the royal palace. Fast forward to the present where business is booming and she is creating the dress for the upcoming royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Leeds. Her work life is a fairy-tale.
Her personal life, however, is another story. After the scars of a past relationship, Clarissa closed her heart off to the world, afraid to trust again.
Patrick Nelson, the Earl of Renbrook, understands what it is like to be broken. It has been two years since his last relationship and his father’s untimely death. When his mother announces she has remarried, Patrick seeks to escape the family estate. A meeting in London with his childhood friend, the Duke of Leeds, provides the perfect excuse.
When Clarissa and Patrick unexpectedly meet, sparks fly. Together can they learn to conquer the past and that love may be in the cards for them after all?
Add Designing for a Royal to your Goodreads TBR!
Interested in purchasing a copy? Click here!
