Designs on You

Bestseller Burton (The Backup Bride Proposal) serves up her signature blend of heat and sweet in this solid contemporary. Freshly divorced Natalie Parker is ready to seize her independence after having been forced to spend years as a stay-at-home mother by her controlling ex. Eager to make a name for herself as an interior designer, she agrees to help her sister, Hazel, with her new home, a project that thrusts her into the orbit of Eugene Kennedy, Hazel’s boyfriend’s brother. Video game designer Eugene is five years younger, drop-dead gorgeous, and full of joie de vivre. Even Natalie’s two young kids love Eugene, but Natalie initially fights their explosive chemistry, manufacturing reasons why a relationship would be a bad idea. Her defenses crumble, however, in the face of their easy friendship and eventual sheet-singeing sex. It’s a simple setup, leaving plenty of space to probe the nuances of how a divorced mom might feel when dating a younger, childless bachelor, including concerns that he might want his own children someday. Supporting characters—including Grizelda, a heart- and scene-stealing puppy—add to the fun. Burton’s fans will eat this up. (Dec.)