Falling by Design

Falling #1

by Valia Lind

Brooklynn Summers has a plan for her graduate from high school, get into a top fashion school, prove to her family that she’s not a failure. She wishes someone in her life understood her need to create because her parents sure don’t support her dreams, her sister hates her, and the deadlines are soon approaching. Enter Grayson Banks. There are a few things in life Brooklynn can’t mismatched patterns, cheap polyester, and Grayson. No boy has ever publicly humiliated Brooklynn like Grayson has. When he suddenly moved away in eighth grade, Brooklynn happily wished him good riddance. But on the first day of senior year, Grayson comes back, with his piercing blue eyes and a smile that melts icebergs, he is not exactly the boy Brooklynn remembers. She quickly realizes that Grayson’s intentions have completely shifted, but she’s not sure if she can put their past behind her.Grayson understands Brooklynn’s creative ambitions and he devises a plan to showcase her work to the world. When the two agree to work together, suddenly, there is more than just fabric paint that’s having a chemical reaction to its environment. Brooklynn cannot help but feel pulled into Grayson’s arms, but memories and misunderstandings surface, putting in danger whatever small comradeship these two childhood enemies have constructed. Can Brooklynn overcome her own insecurities, finally making her dreams come true? Even a dream she didn’t know she had.

Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Young Adult, New Adult, Contemporary Romance

340 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author. Photographer. Artist. Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Russia, Valia Lind has always had a love for the written word. She wrote her first published book on the bathroom floor of her dormitory, while procrastinating to study for her college classes. Upon graduation, she has moved her writing to more respectable places, and has found her voice in Young Adult fiction.
In 2015, her YA thriller, Pieces of Revenge, was the recipient of the Moonbeam Children's Book Award.
You can visit her online at http://valialind.com or follow her on Instagram, where she spends way too much time, @ValiaLind.
For a free book, sign up for her newsletter --> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/f0t1xi1qmr

Reviews

[Allison · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm going to start this review now because this may end up being a DNF for me... For only one reason:

THE SUPPORTING CHARACTERS ARE INFURIATING.

Brooklynn (ugh) doesn't have a single conversation- NOT ONE- with her best friends, Chance (ugh) and Dakota (ugh), where they aren't trying to force her to date her former bully, Grayson (ugh).

What kind of friends are these? They are relentless. Over and over again Brooklynn tells them that he made her life miserable for years and she's not interested in associating with him, but her friends keep pushing and keep pushing. If I were Brooklynn, I would be absolutely livid by now that they keep pressuring me. Honestly, I'd probably tell them that unless they're going to stop harassing me, I'm done talking to them because the amount of pressure they put on Brooklynn constantly IS harassment.

It is literally every chapter that one or the other is telling Brooklynn to give Grayson a chance. It's redundant and annoying.

This is the only book I have on this "reading format" (which is the only thing I can read on at all at this moment in time) right now so we'll see how much more of this gets read.

It's free on Amazon, but I don't recommend it at all at this point.

(OMG those names. Leave it to Jay Crownover, Valia!)


EDIT 9/29/2014: DNF @ 69% This book is terrible. It is my only reading option right now and I would literally rather sit here and do nothing than read another word of this mess.


This "review" is also posted to my website: Crazy Something Maybe

[diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Win a signed copy of Falling By Design! Click here.

I cannot believe this! This is so frustrating! Honestly Valia you can't just write a book that great and have it end that way. I need two more chapters of Brooklynn and Grayson's awesomeness.

Falling by Design is sweet, funny and... fashionable? I can't tell you how much I enjoyed the humor, the quirkiness and every freaking moment in this book. You rarely meet a person as untrusting as Brooklynn. After so many doses of disappointments from the people closest to her, she has learned long ago to keep people at a distance and never get attached. She's a very likable character. She's feisty, passionate and independent. I admire her determination to follow her dreams no matter how unconventional it may be to some people. I love how she finally, finally came out of her shell and stopped hiding the person she truly is. She's a really good role model to all us dreamers. She's taught me that it is better to fail at doing something you love than settle for something you don't and wondering your whole life "What if?".

I truly love every aspect of the book. It has an amazing bunch of dynamic characters and the romance was just breathtaking. Grayson was dreamy and drool-worthy. He's the one person who comes closest to understanding and relating to what Brooklynn is going through. But Brooklynn being Brooklynn, that was a really hard thing to do. It's a good thing that Grayson is very persistent and can charm his way into any girl's heart.
I love Brooklynn and Grayson's interactions. The playful jabs and the flirting - it was all very sweet and romantic. And although it took a really long time (the whole book to be exact) for both of them to realize they're meant to be together, I enjoyed every second of it. Even if at times I was like, "Are you two blind? Can't you see you make the cutest couple? Just go for it!"

I cannot wait for Chance and Dakota's story. They were an amazing side characters and I'm thinking they'll be even better as the main. I hope to see more of Brooklynn and Grayson too! The ending just wasn't enough for me. More, more, more please <3

[Natasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5 Stars.

A cute contemporary with tons of teenage angst. In some parts, the angst was a little repetitive (coupled with slow pacing), but in a whole it really captured the essence of the situation. The romance was very slow-budding, but it evolved nicely. (Yay for no insta-love!)

Brooklyn as a character was likable and annoying at the same time. I admired her strength and her stance on not giving up on her dreams, but she also had so many trust issues. Understandably so, but still seeing her go back and forth between Grayson was frustrating.

The supporting characters were good for the most part. Brooklyn's relationship with her family was heartbreaking, and I think a realistic depiction of quite a few family dynamics today unfortunately. Although Dakota and Chance seemed like great friends, Dakota's constant babble was a bit annoying, and the relationship with Chance seemed a bit off. At any given moment I felt that Chance was going to kiss Brooklyn, even though he liked Dakota.

I think the book had some very serious and relevant issues, dealing with following your dreams, sticking up for yourself and what you believe in, trust, etc. I loved all the quotes at the beginning of each chapter!

I liked how the romance and the design plot line intertwined, but I wish more of that aspect was explored, along with her family history. The romance was understandably the focus, but again got repetitive. It also wrapped up a bit too quickly for my taste. (I also thought the ending seemed a bit unrealistic, given the stubbornness of the characters throughout the whole book, only to do an instant 180 in the nick of time.)

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Falling by Design by Valia Lind is a standalone young adult romance set during the senior year of Brooklyn and Grayson. Let me just say "awwww". This story was so sweet. Boy meets girl, boy is in third grade (or so), boy likes girl, boy tortures girl. Fast-forward to twelfth grade and Grayson is back in town after having moved away and Brooklyn is NOT happy. She remember how he humiliated her in elementary school and she will NOT forgive.

Well, she does, but the story of getting there is funny and sweet and kinda cool. The fact that she wants to be a fashion designer and makes clothes, but never wears them (until later when she's brought out of her shell of protectiveness) is something different for me in books I've been reading.

If you like light-hearted YA romance with a touch of angst and drama with a happy ever after ending then this is definitely a recommended book for you.

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had heard some great things about this book, one of my awesome friends gave it to me for Christmas. This book is so darling, from the characters to the story I loved it.

I can really relate to how much fashion and design mean to Brooklyn, as I study fashion. I could also relate a lot to the photography aspect. The story is one of my favourite kinds, childhood enemy's that reunite, brilliant!

The characters are awesome I really liked Brooklyn's personality and the way she handled things, I found her to be very relatable. I love how supportive and caring Dakota and Chance are in this book, I really like how their personalities really shine through and they're not just 'Brooklyn's friends'. And of course we can't forget Greyson Damnnn, at first I thought he had some sort of social problem but as you read further on you realise it's just nerves. I love his character and how caring he is, such a great male character!

Overall this book was great and I am so excited for the next one!

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

This reads like a cute teen movie. Not bad; it had the usual teenage angst and fighting for your dreams sort of thing. I would have given this 4.5 or even 5 stars if it had been copy-edited. I cringe every time I see grammatical errors and easy spelling mistakes. It’s frustratingly distracting and my desire to tame my pet peeve kicks into high gear.

Characters were well developed. I was drawn to Grayson and Brooklynn. Their vulnerability make them complex, their struggles heartfelt. You can’t help but feel empathetic toward them. They are the kinds of characters that stand out and tugs at you. They were never selfish to reach out but care about the people close to them.

The quotes at the beginning of each chapter are little gems in this book! They are thought provoking and some are downright hilarious!

[Robert Jelen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great novel for teens

I really enjoyed this novel. I am sure that teens will like it even more. The romance between Brooklynn and Grayson was so sweet and really brought back that giddy feeling I remember from my first romance. I highly recommend this for teens or anyone looking to read about young love.

[Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Check out the Falling by Design blog tour!
http://youngadultbookmadness.wordpres...

[Cecilia Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I was in the mood for something light, something make my heart sing and Falling by Design did exactly what I wanted. My heart is soaring so high that I don't know when it will come back down to Earth. I loved this book wholeheartedly and I really could not put it down, finishing it within a night. I connected with Brooklynn on so many levels that it really could have been me in the story. Valia Lind has a way with words and crafted a wonderful and beautiful story.
'"I'm not running."
"Please, every time he's in the vicinity of you, you look like you're getting ready to run a marathon..."

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was very hard to put down, but I took away a star for the grammar/spelling errors throughout (i.e. principle instead of principal), and the rather simplistic writing. But, I enjoyed it and would recommend.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5

Cute story on the whole a little repetitive in parts with the angst but emotionally connecting.

The synopsis gives the plot in detail so there is no need to recap any of it :) The characterizations were well developed piecing together not only Brooklynn and Grayson’s interactions in the present alongside their shared history, but also their individual home lives and the how specific incidents have shaped them into the person they are today.

Both characters are very endearing allowing a deep connection to them. It is obvious from the very beginning that they belong together, they have chemistry as well as a deep connection if only Brooklynn could acknowledge it. I understood Brooklynn’s reluctance to let Grayson past her barriers but to the outside observer it was pretty obvious how he felt about her both in the present and the past.

Brooklynn’s emotional issues are exasperated by the lack of support she receives from her parents. This was a truly heartbreaking aspect of the plot, I hated seeing how Brooklynn’s father treated her, making her feel like a disappointment. I must say that Brooklynn is an incredibly strong character to stand up for herself in the face of such opposition, lesser spirits would have been crushed. Both Brooklynn and Grayson’s creative passion and talent pour through the pages adding to the plot as a whole. It was like the technicolor rainbow on top of the black and white plot (if you get my meaning – icing on the cake situation).

The minefield of high school and bullying is touched upon as well as the unique friendship providing encouragement, support and love. Although I did find some of the angst a little repetitive when it came to Brooklynn it did add to the emotional connection I felt with her. I would have liked to have seen the story progress at a faster pace with more insight into the background of both her father and her aunt with respect of their past influencing their actions to Brooklynn.

On the whole, Falling by Design is a cute romance that encourages you to follow your dreams.

[Kirke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think it's been a while since I've read such a sweet honest young adult contemporary romance. My smile didn't leave my face from the moment I finished the first page.

Brooklynn has known since she was five years old that she would become a fashion designer. Unfortunately some bullying from on Grayson Banks and a total lack of support on the homefront might have dented her self confidence a bit. She still designs and makes clothes, she just stopped wearing them.

Now it's senior year and things are about to become real. Brooklynn is still very much set on pursuing her dream, even if that means having to fight with her dad over college every single day. When her childhood nemesis returns, Brooklynn feels like the world is out to get her. After some time she does realises Grayson isn't the same boy as four years ago.

Grayson knows he's made some stupid mistakes back then and after apologising to her several times, he suggest he helps her chase her dream. Brooklynn agrees, but she is still doubtful. Slowly though she gets to know him again and trying all she wants, she can not deny the pull she feels towards him.

It was so easy to relate to Brooklyn. She is still trying to figure out who she is, who she wants, and all the while trying to survive high school. Brooklynn knows what she wants to do, achieving her dream unfortunately wasn't that easy.

The BFF's in this book were awesome. They were really cool and always so supportive of Brooklynn. Adding that note of humor really made it complete.

I liked the growing relationship between Brooklynn and Grayson. The guy had to work for it, but it was all worth it. No instant love here, but a friendship tentatively growing into romance.

Falling by Design was such a fun read. It has great characters, an amazing romance and enough drama to keep things interesting.

*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*

[Once · Rating 4 out of 5]

OUT's Review

This story brings me back. To the middle school years, of being picked at by a boy in class, that probably liked you, but instead of a normal conversation treated you so bad, because that was the only way they knew how to talk to a girl, making fun and doing mean things, was as far it ever went. This is the connection that first comes to mind when reading Falling by Design, by Valia Lind. Falling by Design is a very quick and easy read. Very realistic in it's story line, the plot truly keeps the reader reading from start to finish. Each character is carefully crafted and truly represents real life characters that could easily jump off the page. I find that a true strength in writing realistic fiction, is just that. Creating characters that a live in their actions and descriptions. Even the supporting characters of this story are highlighted nicely.

Brooklynn is living in the final year of life before she truly heads off on her own in the big world. Just when she thinks it is smooth sailing for her senior year, in walks a boy of her past. Grayson, no longer a boy but an attractive guy. He bumps into Brooklynn and the rest is history. However, will their history get in the way of a blooming relationship that may not be meant to be? Or will Brooklynn break out of her fragile shell, experience life and take Grayson with her? So back to the mean guy in middle school that I still remember, well 20 years later...he apologized and I laughed about it. Brooklynn, however may not and miss out on something great that is hidden under a layer of past events.

[Cate · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, I got this story on my kindle for either really cheap or free. I can't remember. I was expecting a cute, cliché romance where the girl falls in love with the boy who used to bully her. For the most part, this was the plot.

What pulled me into reading this story was the fact that Brooklyn was a aspiring fashion designer and that her parents didn’t accept this future career. One of the things I would hope to be when I’m a little older is a fashion designer. I love designing clothes. And also, my parents (well more one parent), doesn’t accept this, and doesn’t think it is a job that I would be able to handle.

I hated the way her parents didn’t like this career or the fact that her sister was very cold and distant towards her. She acted like she hated her.

Throughout the book, Brook battles with her feelings for Grayson. She won’t let any feelings for Grayson blooms because she still thinks he is the bully he once was. No matter how many times he tries to convince her, tries to change her opinion of him, she just won’t budge.

I did like both main characters. Grayson more than Brook. Brook, at times, I found annoying because of the fact that she kept pushing Grayson away, although you could see he was sincere. I love Grayson’s determination. He kept pushing and pushing to get Brook to accept her feelings.

I also like her best friends too.

At the beginning of each chapter, there are little quotes, I enjoyed them. Some were funny too.

All in all, this book was enjoyable. The thing that most annoyed me though was the ending. It felt too rushed. I think the problem should have been resolved either a couple chapters earlier or there should have been a couple extra chapters.

Great story for the author’s debut YA.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg! Such a sweet book!!! I knew I was going to love this book and I'm glad it didn't fail in my expectations! Get ready for the gushing!

Let's talk about the characters:

Brooklynn was such a loveable character. She was so funny! Her interactions with her friends and Grayson were a joy to read! She already knew who she was and what she wanted to be, she just needed to prove it to herself and her family. I loved the fashion side of things. One of my close friends is very passionate about fashion so it was nice to kind of get more of an inkling into that world and understand how beautiful it can be.

Grayson was adorable!!! He was awkwardly confident - What I mean is that he was awkward with how he was towards Brooklynn but confident in that he wanted to be in her life and he would try his hardest to be. Also his dedication to his work was so cute! Him and Brooklynn really compliment each other!

Chance & Dakota were fantastic best friends! I loved how Chance and Brooklynn had a close friendship without feelings involved! Dakota was hilarious and a true friend to Brooklynn. I'm so excited about their story!

Brooklynn's family did annoy me a lot but they're supposed to. I really hope in the future without giving anything away, they are there for their daughter! I feel like with Paige because of what happened, it just went so far that it was hard to come back from but I hope things do get better in the future for them as well. Her aunt was cool, I would love to know more about her.

This is like the perfect contemporary!!! A lovely story about second chances and following your dreams!! I give Falling by Design (By the way love that title!) 5 stars!!!!

[Deitre · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story brings me back. To the middle school years, of being picked at by a boy in class, that probably liked you, but instead of a normal conversation treated you so bad, because that was the only way they knew how to talk to a girl, making fun and doing mean things, was as far it ever went. This is the connection that first comes to mind when reading Falling by Design, by Valia Lind. Falling by Design is a very quick and easy read. Very realistic in it's story line, the plot truly keeps the reader reading from start to finish. Each character is carefully crafted and truly represents real life characters that could easily jump off the page. I find that a true strength in writing realistic fiction, is just that. Creating characters that a live in their actions and descriptions. Even the supporting characters of this story are highlighted nicely.

Brooklynn is living in the final year of life before she truly heads off on her own in the big world. Just when she thinks it is smooth sailing for her senior year, in walks a boy of her past. Grayson, no longer a boy but an attractive guy. He bumps into Brooklynn and the rest is history. However, will their history get in the way of a blooming relationship that may not be meant to be? Or will Brooklynn break out of her fragile shell, experience life and take Grayson with her? So back to the mean guy in middle school that I still remember, well 20 years later...he apologized and I laughed about it. Brooklynn, however may not and miss out on something great that is hidden under a layer of past events.

[Paula M · Rating 3 out of 5]

4.5!!!

"Maybe it's foolish to dream of white knights and Prince Charmings, but I truly believe the right guy is out there for me. I just have to be trusting enough to let him come into my life."

I'm pretty sure Brooklyn isn't the only one who ever thought/said this before.

Ahhh, I love everything in this story. Just everything. There's a lot of Awww moments. It's so sweet and It will really left you smiling.

Brooklyn. The way I relate to her really surprised me. It's like I'm reading my own thoughts. I adored her so much. I understand the feeling of being caged. Of being surrounded by people who do not understand your art. Poor Brooklyn, I just want to hug her. Also, she's big on trust. And I understand why she's so cautious in giving it. Especially after what she went through when she was still a kid.

Grayson. The bully back when he and brooklyn were still little. And now, totally swoon worthy. But trust me, he used to be a real jerk. What changed? Hmm. You need to read the book to find out.

The plot. Fun, easy, sweet and beautiful. There'll be sad moments, yes, but it was very realistic. I was really invested in the story and I felt the characters emotions. The author did a great job for the secondary characters. No one was a waste.

I think I found a new author to add in the list of my favorites. I'm really looking forward for more of her works.

[Jena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Falling By Design is such a super cute read! I couldn't get enough of Grayson and Brooklynn's adorable love game.

Brooklynn's senior year takes a turn for the worst when her childhood bully returns after being away for years. Or so she thinks it's for the worst. I loved watching Brooklynn break out of her shell, not run away and show the world what she's made of. I give her a ton of credit for standing up to her parents constantly and not backing down either. Plus her relationship with her best friends Chance and Dakota was just everything a friendship should be and I loved that.

Then on the other side is Grayson Banks who is so much more than meets the eye and so much more than who Brooklynn thinks he is. The fact that he's got shaggy hair, baby blues, super tall, and loves photography was a total seller for me. Plus I love how he never played games with Brooklynn, he was always on her side and so selfless for her and that is a good guy in my book.

This young adult romance is super light and fun read, yet at the same time touches on so many important parts of growing up in high school. If you're looking for a cute ya romance that'll have you smiling by the end definitely give this one a shot!

Find this review at Shortie Says

[Brenda Pandos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start out by saying this story ROCKS! Meet Brooklynn and Grayson. Grayson was that annoying, pesky, immature, mean boy in elementary school that purposefully did things to embarrass Brooklyn and made her life miserable. Fast forward a few years--he's back. Grayson claims he's changed and wants a second chance, but Brooklyn has to protect herself. Grayson can't possibly think she'd forget how horrible he treated her, could he? And worse, is this only a trick to lure her in, then hurt her once more?

The whole saying, "hurt me one, shame on you. hurt me twice, shame on me," kept going through my head the entire time I read Falling by Design, and I hoped Grayson had changed for real and wasn't just using Brooklyn. While he was adorable and sweet in his effort to earn the trust back, I didn't feel sorry for him when he'd get frustrated the Brooklyn wasn't returning the attention/affection. What did he expect? He'd been incredibly cruel to Brooklyn, and he needs to earn the trust back.

I love how Valia crafted such a believable world where everything isn't perfect for her characters and how they jump out of the page and demand you become invested in them until the last sentence. Get it today. You'll love it!

[Turtlefrog · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had so much potential. But IMO just fell flat.

The synopsis on GR really had me believing I was going to get a really awesome read. Maybe even something along the lines of or . Both of which I thought were amazing.
But sadly this story failed to do anything other than make me wish I was getting to the end of the story faster as the chapters progressed. It almost was a DNF for me. Brooklynn was not a strong female lead as opposed to the female leads in the above mentioned books. In actuality the side characters were more interesting to me then Brooklynn. Which is why I may attempt to continue this series with . We'll see.

[I Eat Words · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a cute, easy, and fun read to slip into your beach bag as you lay out by the water then Falling by Design is for you. It's a YA contemporary romance where you find yourself completely invested in the characters who all have such differing personalities. Brooklynn, the main character, has a creative mind but a practical heart. She doesn't want to let her guard down when it comes to Grayson, a boy she's known growing up. Grayson just happened to by *that* boy--the boy who made her life hell. (We all have those boys in our life, don't we?)

There is the perfect amount of tension and drama blended in with realistic dialogue and romantic moments. It's a lighthearted read and I bet you'll find yourself immersed in Brooklynn's world just as I was! I can't wait to see what Valia has coming next, because she's one author whose books I will continue to read. :)

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooklynn Summers loathes Grayson Banks, has ever since they were little. Now they're older and after being apart for a few years, they're forced back together to work together on a school project.

I absolutely adore Valia's writing style. It flows so easily on the page and she draws you immediately into the story. I cared about the relationship between Grayson and Brooklynn. I rooted for Grayson the ENTIRE time. He was sweet and cocky at the same time, which is exactly what he should be.

Just one more day until you can get your grabby hands on Falling by Design!!!! YAY!!

[Melinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really REALLY wanted to give this a full five stars, but there were a few things about the plot that bugged me a bit. The main character, Brooklynn, was extremely insecure about basically everything and both of her "best friends" were continuously pushing her to go out with her childhood tormentor. Everything worked out in the end, but both things took away from what was truly a wonderful book.

[Victoria]

This book sounds promising. I'm excited to start reading it. I'm a big fan of story's where the guy attempts to win the girl over after he's been a jerk and Grayson seems to fit into that category. I'll leave a more thorough review when I'm done reading :)

[Amanda (Good Choice Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well that was adorable. Perfect little light, sweet, but still meaningful YA contemporary. Review to come during the blog tour!

[Jennifer Madero (Boricuan Bookworms) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awee this was such a sweet story! Review to come soon and blog tour stop next week! :D

[Barbie✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grayson. Chance.

HA HA HA.

HA.

=)))

[Giulliana · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️

[Courtney Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I connected with the characters especially the main character.

[Brittney Mulliner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great value

What a surprise! This is a fabulous book and I can't wait to read the next one! finally a realistic love story