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The Art of Love #8
Designed
Can a workaholic fashion designer with something to prove, a sweet, brokenhearted gardener, and an outrageously sassy archeologist form a throuple without anyone getting hurt?
Ryan Hawthorne is back at Hawthorne House after coming so close to his fashion design dreams he could taste them, but having the whole thing taken away from him. He’s determined to work his way back into the spotlight, but he’s out of ideas and lacking inspiration.
Until sweet, shy gardener Graeme Dallen blossoms into his life.
Graeme is just recovering both from the divorce that turned his life upside down and from being dumped by the man who made him realize he was gay. Redesigning the gardens of Hawthorne House is the boost he needs, both for his business and his personal recovery and sense of self. He is instantly drawn to Ryan, but when his work uncovers ruins on the property of Hawthorne House and an archeologist is called in to investigate, it feels like Graeme’s life will be turned upside down again.
Neither Ryan nor Graeme expected to find themselves in a triangle.
Arthur Johnson is a modern-day rake with a mischievous sense of fun. He has no problem at all flirting with two men at once and encourages them both to explore and experiment. But when both Ryan and Graeme stumble into impossible opportunities that could change all three of their lives, Art will do anything he can to help his men succeed, even if it puts his career in jeopardy.
Designed is a fun and steamy throuple romance with two men who need to jump on the Why Choose bandwagon and one who is already there. Friends and enemies abound, and there’s a race against time to fulfill everyone’s dreams at the last second!
Ryan Hawthorne is back at Hawthorne House after coming so close to his fashion design dreams he could taste them, but having the whole thing taken away from him. He’s determined to work his way back into the spotlight, but he’s out of ideas and lacking inspiration.
Until sweet, shy gardener Graeme Dallen blossoms into his life.
Graeme is just recovering both from the divorce that turned his life upside down and from being dumped by the man who made him realize he was gay. Redesigning the gardens of Hawthorne House is the boost he needs, both for his business and his personal recovery and sense of self. He is instantly drawn to Ryan, but when his work uncovers ruins on the property of Hawthorne House and an archeologist is called in to investigate, it feels like Graeme’s life will be turned upside down again.
Neither Ryan nor Graeme expected to find themselves in a triangle.
Arthur Johnson is a modern-day rake with a mischievous sense of fun. He has no problem at all flirting with two men at once and encourages them both to explore and experiment. But when both Ryan and Graeme stumble into impossible opportunities that could change all three of their lives, Art will do anything he can to help his men succeed, even if it puts his career in jeopardy.
Designed is a fun and steamy throuple romance with two men who need to jump on the Why Choose bandwagon and one who is already there. Friends and enemies abound, and there’s a race against time to fulfill everyone’s dreams at the last second!
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2026
11 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
294 books1,141 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 25, 2026
This is a fitting end to the Art of Love series from Merry Farmer. The looks into the lives of the members of the creative Hawthorne family and their residence at Hawthorne House, then learning about the artistic talent of each member has been both enlightening and educational, as well as an enjoyable read. The world building for all of the parts of the House itself, both the creative and teaching side, as well as the family dynamics of all of the members that have quarters there, whether permanently or intermittently, enriches the context within each person’s own story. I love how the attic seems to be a place frequented by the family, whether researching family history and archives, or making wardrobe choices from the clothing stored there over the various decades, and even centuries. It seems to be a rallying point at several times and for several purposes. The family members, themselves, are fascinating and unique in their interests and areas of expertise, as are the partners each chooses to complete their life. The parents of this brood are unexpected, free spirits themselves, mom almost seems psychic at times, and both parents are perceptive and always supportive of their children, their partners, and their chosen art form. The other part about the family that captivated me was the ‘conversion’ to Paganism, which seemed to fit so well with their free spirited, non-traditional upbringing and belief system.
The last Hawthorne son’s tale finds Ryan returned from Europe after years in the fashion industry, discouraged and depressed about the way he left, coming home to find himself. What he finds is Graeme, the gardener hired to bring the legendary gardens of Hawthorne House back to their formal beauty and Art, an archeologist, a flirt, and a bit of a rake, there to research the remains of a mid-18th century cottage destroyed in a fire. All three men have an immediate attraction to each other, but Graeme is basically a ‘baby gay’, trying to learn more about himself and his recent acknowledgment that he is gay, leading to him divorcing his wife; Ryan, attracted to Graeme but believing he is straight while also attracted to bold and brassy Art; and Art, flirty and openly frank about his desire for both men, open to the idea of a threesome relationship. Ryan and Graeme aren’t there yet, but the more time they spend together, the more obvious it becomes that these three are meant to face life together. All three have personal challenges and a villain to confront, but with the support from each other, they face them together to come out on the other side. They are literally three meant to be. Their story is very entertaining and inevitable, a perfect way to finish the series.
The series is one I can heartily recommend and intend to go back and reread, one after the other, to enjoy the richness of the world building without time gaps between them, and to relive the tales of each family member on the journey to meet their destined partner. This is a family that pulls you in and makes you want to know each one and join the family yourself. Read to find out about this amazing family and the beautiful home and grounds where they live. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my voluntary review.
The last Hawthorne son’s tale finds Ryan returned from Europe after years in the fashion industry, discouraged and depressed about the way he left, coming home to find himself. What he finds is Graeme, the gardener hired to bring the legendary gardens of Hawthorne House back to their formal beauty and Art, an archeologist, a flirt, and a bit of a rake, there to research the remains of a mid-18th century cottage destroyed in a fire. All three men have an immediate attraction to each other, but Graeme is basically a ‘baby gay’, trying to learn more about himself and his recent acknowledgment that he is gay, leading to him divorcing his wife; Ryan, attracted to Graeme but believing he is straight while also attracted to bold and brassy Art; and Art, flirty and openly frank about his desire for both men, open to the idea of a threesome relationship. Ryan and Graeme aren’t there yet, but the more time they spend together, the more obvious it becomes that these three are meant to face life together. All three have personal challenges and a villain to confront, but with the support from each other, they face them together to come out on the other side. They are literally three meant to be. Their story is very entertaining and inevitable, a perfect way to finish the series.
The series is one I can heartily recommend and intend to go back and reread, one after the other, to enjoy the richness of the world building without time gaps between them, and to relive the tales of each family member on the journey to meet their destined partner. This is a family that pulls you in and makes you want to know each one and join the family yourself. Read to find out about this amazing family and the beautiful home and grounds where they live. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my voluntary review.
February 1, 2026
Designed is the eighth and final book in the ‘Art of Love’ series. This stars Ryan Hawthorne, a fashion designer, Graeme Dallen, a landscape designer, and Arthur Johnson, an archeologist and a rake. This is told in third person from Ryan, Graeme, and Art’s povs.
First the cover. I like this one the best of all the covers in the series. The floral shirt illustrates that Ryan is a fashion designer.
The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot, so I won’t repeat too much. I liked the plot and the reason Ryan felt defeated enough to return to Hawthorne House. I liked Graeme’s problem of having to heal from his divorce and the way he was raised. Art didn’t have much of a crisis, unless you want to count his crisis as having to figure out how to get both Ryan and Graeme to have sex with him.
This brings me to the characters. I liked Ryan, probably one of my favorite characters in this series. His loss of inspiration after his mentor turned on him made sense as well as his struggles to recover from his brain block. Graeme was the most damaged. Graeme is very insecure and is consumed by guilt over divorcing his wife and being gay. He grew up with a strict religious background and married because his family bullied him into it. But when he met a man who he thought he could trust, he asked his wife for a divorce. Only to have the man reject him because he only wanted Graeme when he couldn’t have him. Graeme ends up losing his previous landscape business because the friends who worked for him turned against him. Now Greme is struggling to start over with designing Hawthorne House’s garden. Art is called in to investigate some ruins Graeme finds while mapping out the garden. I didn’t like Art. He focused too much on trying to have sex with Ryan and Graeme. He kept pushing to find out Graeme’s background, even though Graeme didn’t want to tell him, which I found disrespectful. Art wanted to satisfy his curiosity and made Graeme a project. He refused to respect Graeme’s boundaries or back-off when Graeme didn’t want to talk. He basically kept pushing or bullying Graeme just like Graeme’s friends and family did. Graeme’s personality was used to giving up and giving in to what others wanted. Art was all about Art and he really annoyed me. I wasn’t convinced he wanted to settle down with two men even though he said he did. He could still pull any guy he wanted and had a voracious sex drive. This kind of guy I couldn’t believe settling down until he was in his forties or fifties, if at all. Ryan and Graeme I could see together, but Art felt like a third wheel, he didn’t fit. I couldn’t believe in these men as a trouple because of Art’s character.
Overall, I liked the plot of Designed. I liked Ryan and Graeme but didn’t like Art at all. He just seemed tagged into the couple dynamic and didn’t work for me. Maybe if his personality had been less cliche-like and more real, I would’ve found him more believable. I give this story, 4 Stars.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my honest and unbiased review.
First the cover. I like this one the best of all the covers in the series. The floral shirt illustrates that Ryan is a fashion designer.
The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot, so I won’t repeat too much. I liked the plot and the reason Ryan felt defeated enough to return to Hawthorne House. I liked Graeme’s problem of having to heal from his divorce and the way he was raised. Art didn’t have much of a crisis, unless you want to count his crisis as having to figure out how to get both Ryan and Graeme to have sex with him.
This brings me to the characters. I liked Ryan, probably one of my favorite characters in this series. His loss of inspiration after his mentor turned on him made sense as well as his struggles to recover from his brain block. Graeme was the most damaged. Graeme is very insecure and is consumed by guilt over divorcing his wife and being gay. He grew up with a strict religious background and married because his family bullied him into it. But when he met a man who he thought he could trust, he asked his wife for a divorce. Only to have the man reject him because he only wanted Graeme when he couldn’t have him. Graeme ends up losing his previous landscape business because the friends who worked for him turned against him. Now Greme is struggling to start over with designing Hawthorne House’s garden. Art is called in to investigate some ruins Graeme finds while mapping out the garden. I didn’t like Art. He focused too much on trying to have sex with Ryan and Graeme. He kept pushing to find out Graeme’s background, even though Graeme didn’t want to tell him, which I found disrespectful. Art wanted to satisfy his curiosity and made Graeme a project. He refused to respect Graeme’s boundaries or back-off when Graeme didn’t want to talk. He basically kept pushing or bullying Graeme just like Graeme’s friends and family did. Graeme’s personality was used to giving up and giving in to what others wanted. Art was all about Art and he really annoyed me. I wasn’t convinced he wanted to settle down with two men even though he said he did. He could still pull any guy he wanted and had a voracious sex drive. This kind of guy I couldn’t believe settling down until he was in his forties or fifties, if at all. Ryan and Graeme I could see together, but Art felt like a third wheel, he didn’t fit. I couldn’t believe in these men as a trouple because of Art’s character.
Overall, I liked the plot of Designed. I liked Ryan and Graeme but didn’t like Art at all. He just seemed tagged into the couple dynamic and didn’t work for me. Maybe if his personality had been less cliche-like and more real, I would’ve found him more believable. I give this story, 4 Stars.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my honest and unbiased review.
February 10, 2026
A three-way love story dug up at a historic English Estate
In this beautifully conceived universe of the Hawthorne House and the eccentric family members and friends whom they attract, the narrative unfolds regarding the fashion designer within the family who departs from a Milan-based design firm after his supervisor demands inappropriate sexual attention. Upon returning to Hawthorne House, Ryan Hawthorne's focus is directed towards a man employed by his mother to renovate the estate's gardens.
Graeme Dallen is recently divorced from a marriage lacking underlying chemistry. Although his spouse has released him from their union, Graeme's parents condemn him upon discovering his involvement with Ryan. He initially sought to assist in the garden as he was the sole laborer present. This interaction fostered a relationship in which Graeme confided his incompatibility with his wife and his awakening to his male attraction. Younger than Ryan, Graeme exhibits openness to exploring his newfound sexuality.
During their work in the gardens, the ruins of an ancient structure are discovered, capturing the interest of Arthur Johnson, a professor of archaeology known for his free-spirited approach to sexuality. Art is enlisted to research the purpose of the excavated site. He also uncovers the chemistry between Ryan and Graeme, who is embracing his sexual identity.
Both Art and Ryan are receptive to a relationship with Graeme, forming a triad. While driven by sexual attraction, the trio finds their relationship to be more than mere friendship, supporting each other in their endeavors, including a cinematic effort to develop a new fashion line to be showcased in Milan. Ryan's former employer actively attempts to undermine his success by stealing models and creating various obstacles.
Nonetheless, the collaborative efforts of these three men fortified their determination to support one another and maintain their unconventional relationships.
Merry Farmer's writing is compelling, effectively narrating the story and, more importantly, conveying the three men's consciences. Literature concerning the Hawthorne estate enables readers to observe this unique family and, more recently, others who have joined the estate, appreciating the arts and the spirit of exploration.
In this beautifully conceived universe of the Hawthorne House and the eccentric family members and friends whom they attract, the narrative unfolds regarding the fashion designer within the family who departs from a Milan-based design firm after his supervisor demands inappropriate sexual attention. Upon returning to Hawthorne House, Ryan Hawthorne's focus is directed towards a man employed by his mother to renovate the estate's gardens.
Graeme Dallen is recently divorced from a marriage lacking underlying chemistry. Although his spouse has released him from their union, Graeme's parents condemn him upon discovering his involvement with Ryan. He initially sought to assist in the garden as he was the sole laborer present. This interaction fostered a relationship in which Graeme confided his incompatibility with his wife and his awakening to his male attraction. Younger than Ryan, Graeme exhibits openness to exploring his newfound sexuality.
During their work in the gardens, the ruins of an ancient structure are discovered, capturing the interest of Arthur Johnson, a professor of archaeology known for his free-spirited approach to sexuality. Art is enlisted to research the purpose of the excavated site. He also uncovers the chemistry between Ryan and Graeme, who is embracing his sexual identity.
Both Art and Ryan are receptive to a relationship with Graeme, forming a triad. While driven by sexual attraction, the trio finds their relationship to be more than mere friendship, supporting each other in their endeavors, including a cinematic effort to develop a new fashion line to be showcased in Milan. Ryan's former employer actively attempts to undermine his success by stealing models and creating various obstacles.
Nonetheless, the collaborative efforts of these three men fortified their determination to support one another and maintain their unconventional relationships.
Merry Farmer's writing is compelling, effectively narrating the story and, more importantly, conveying the three men's consciences. Literature concerning the Hawthorne estate enables readers to observe this unique family and, more recently, others who have joined the estate, appreciating the arts and the spirit of exploration.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 Stars
Ryan Hawthorne is back at Hawthorne House his fashion design dreams were so close but then when he wouldn’t bow to demands they turned to ash. He’s determined to work his way back into the spotlight, but he’s out of ideas and lacking inspiration. Until sweet, shy gardener Graeme Dallen blossoms into his life. Graeme is just recovering both from the divorce that turned his life upside down and from being dumped by the man who made him realize he was gay. Redesigning the gardens of Hawthorne House is the boost he needs. He is instantly drawn to Ryan, but when his work uncovers ruins on the property of Hawthorne House and an archaeologist is called in to investigate, it feels like Graeme’s life will be turned upside down again. Neither Ryan nor Graeme expected to find themselves in a triangle. Arthur Johnson is a modern-day rake with a mischievous sense of fun. He has no problem at all flirting with two men at once and encourages them both to explore and experiment.
The eighth book in the series & I’ve loved getting to know the Hawthornes, they are one heck of a family! I loved Ryan’s story & read it straight through. I felt that I got to know Ryan & Graeme but Art was still a bit of an enigma. All three of them carried baggage but they found their soul mates & together facing their pasts was easier. I loved the doubts & questions especially Graeme had about loving two people & loved how things evolved. I also loved the epilogue, which left me smiling. A very well written engrossing book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Ryan Hawthorne is back at Hawthorne House his fashion design dreams were so close but then when he wouldn’t bow to demands they turned to ash. He’s determined to work his way back into the spotlight, but he’s out of ideas and lacking inspiration. Until sweet, shy gardener Graeme Dallen blossoms into his life. Graeme is just recovering both from the divorce that turned his life upside down and from being dumped by the man who made him realize he was gay. Redesigning the gardens of Hawthorne House is the boost he needs. He is instantly drawn to Ryan, but when his work uncovers ruins on the property of Hawthorne House and an archaeologist is called in to investigate, it feels like Graeme’s life will be turned upside down again. Neither Ryan nor Graeme expected to find themselves in a triangle. Arthur Johnson is a modern-day rake with a mischievous sense of fun. He has no problem at all flirting with two men at once and encourages them both to explore and experiment.
The eighth book in the series & I’ve loved getting to know the Hawthornes, they are one heck of a family! I loved Ryan’s story & read it straight through. I felt that I got to know Ryan & Graeme but Art was still a bit of an enigma. All three of them carried baggage but they found their soul mates & together facing their pasts was easier. I loved the doubts & questions especially Graeme had about loving two people & loved how things evolved. I also loved the epilogue, which left me smiling. A very well written engrossing book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
January 26, 2026
Ryan, a burned‑out fashion designer, returns home to rebuild his career and unexpectedly finds inspiration in Graeme, the gentle gardener recovering from heartbreak. Their connection is immediate, but everything shifts when Graeme’s work uncovers ruins on the estate and Arthur — a bold, flirtatious archaeologist — arrives on the scene. Art’s charm pulls both men in, turning a simple spark into a surprising, tender triangle. As Ryan and Graeme chase life‑changing opportunities, Art becomes the glue holding them together, willing to risk his own career to help the men he’s come to care for. A playful, steamy throuple romance full of chemistry, found family, and three men learning that choosing each other might be the key to all their dreams.
I loved this throuple romance which was overflowing with warmth, chemistry, and genuine devotion. Ryan, Graeme, and Art may come from completely different worlds, but the love that grows between them feels effortless and deeply earned. What really stands out is how wholeheartedly they supported one another’s dreams — Ryan finding inspiration again, Graeme rebuilding his confidence and business, and Art risking his own career to make sure the men he loves succeed. Their relationship wasn’t just about passion; it was about partnership. Each man brings something the others need, and together they create a space where ambition, creativity, and vulnerability can thrive. It’s a joyful, tender story about choosing love in all its forms and lifting each other up along the way. This was an MMM story with mature content.
I loved this throuple romance which was overflowing with warmth, chemistry, and genuine devotion. Ryan, Graeme, and Art may come from completely different worlds, but the love that grows between them feels effortless and deeply earned. What really stands out is how wholeheartedly they supported one another’s dreams — Ryan finding inspiration again, Graeme rebuilding his confidence and business, and Art risking his own career to make sure the men he loves succeed. Their relationship wasn’t just about passion; it was about partnership. Each man brings something the others need, and together they create a space where ambition, creativity, and vulnerability can thrive. It’s a joyful, tender story about choosing love in all its forms and lifting each other up along the way. This was an MMM story with mature content.
January 30, 2026
Three for Success . . .
The author makes it look so easy to take 3 complicated lives and blend them together to offer growth and encouragement as they learn to rely on each other and improve their lives together. Ryan Hawthorne is the fashion designer family member who returned from Europe disheartened after what Giorgio Esposito did to ruin his plan to go out on his own and make a name for himself. He meets the gardener Graeme Dallen who will be releasing his creativity to bring the Hawthorn House gardens to glorious life again. It's important to him to make a good impression as he takes on this huge assignment which will highlight his business as long as he doesn't fail. The third member is flirty Arthur Johnson who already is secure in who he is but is drawn to the other two men in mutual attraction. The dynamics are more difficult for Graeme since he is new to the lifestyle, has recently divorced his wife, and is learning more about the changes he is still going through. Arthur is the most confident and ready to enjoy the possibility of the three of them being together, and he has an important project as well that he will be working on. It may not be easy to face this new challenge, but it doesn't take too long to realize they belong together. Will the new relationship work? Can their dreams come true? Grab your copy and enjoy the pitfalls and progress along the way to becoming a comfortable successful family. The author is a wonderful storyteller and will keep you cheering for these characters to find their HEA.
The author makes it look so easy to take 3 complicated lives and blend them together to offer growth and encouragement as they learn to rely on each other and improve their lives together. Ryan Hawthorne is the fashion designer family member who returned from Europe disheartened after what Giorgio Esposito did to ruin his plan to go out on his own and make a name for himself. He meets the gardener Graeme Dallen who will be releasing his creativity to bring the Hawthorn House gardens to glorious life again. It's important to him to make a good impression as he takes on this huge assignment which will highlight his business as long as he doesn't fail. The third member is flirty Arthur Johnson who already is secure in who he is but is drawn to the other two men in mutual attraction. The dynamics are more difficult for Graeme since he is new to the lifestyle, has recently divorced his wife, and is learning more about the changes he is still going through. Arthur is the most confident and ready to enjoy the possibility of the three of them being together, and he has an important project as well that he will be working on. It may not be easy to face this new challenge, but it doesn't take too long to realize they belong together. Will the new relationship work? Can their dreams come true? Grab your copy and enjoy the pitfalls and progress along the way to becoming a comfortable successful family. The author is a wonderful storyteller and will keep you cheering for these characters to find their HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed the MMM addition to the Art of Love series. There are three very different men, falling in love without really looking for a relationship and all have plenty of baggage to go through.
You have Ryan, coming home after his fashion career is crashing thanks to his old boss, Graeme, who has to pick up the pieces of his live when doing the right thing caused heartbreak, and Art, the modern day rake who looked for a nice way to spend the summer and seducing some men.
Because they are so different they do work. They all bring something into this relationship. I love how Ryan and Art are looking out for baby-gay Graeme, protective but also highly aware that there is more than attraction developing soon.
Graeme is bringing these two back to earth and showing what is really important.
They all support each other, be it the plus-one for a wedding you don't really want to attend, ensuring that a last-minute invite to a fashion show will be possible or that precious papers from the past are looked at.
My only issue is that with all of them having some form of baggage, the story is too short to really cover it properly and I felt it was sometimes too much. And I also missed out on Art's background, a bit more would have been lovely.
You have Ryan, coming home after his fashion career is crashing thanks to his old boss, Graeme, who has to pick up the pieces of his live when doing the right thing caused heartbreak, and Art, the modern day rake who looked for a nice way to spend the summer and seducing some men.
Because they are so different they do work. They all bring something into this relationship. I love how Ryan and Art are looking out for baby-gay Graeme, protective but also highly aware that there is more than attraction developing soon.
Graeme is bringing these two back to earth and showing what is really important.
They all support each other, be it the plus-one for a wedding you don't really want to attend, ensuring that a last-minute invite to a fashion show will be possible or that precious papers from the past are looked at.
My only issue is that with all of them having some form of baggage, the story is too short to really cover it properly and I felt it was sometimes too much. And I also missed out on Art's background, a bit more would have been lovely.
January 24, 2026
"Designed " is the eighth book in Merry Farmer's The Art of Love. The books are all interrelated, about the men of Hawthorne House, a school and arts center. They can be read as standalones, but each one has an enjoyable storyline and are quick and quite fun to read.
Ryan Hawthorne is a fashion designer, Graeme Dallen is a master gardener, and Arthur Johnson is an archeology professor and field archeologist, each man an artist in their own field. Both Ryan and Graeme have had their dreams stomped on. Ryan's fashion career was derailed when his designs were stolen in Milan by his employer. Graeme's divorce outed him as gay and the man he'd fallen in love with, left him. Arthur was a consummate flirt, there'd been a post-grad graduate student scandal and the Dean was trying to find a way to get rid of him, without "tarnishing" the University.
They have a summer to explore their very mutual attractions. Arthur is the most confident. He leads the way. The three of them are bedroom creative, spicy as heck. So tender, so sweet, so oh me gosh! And we get a very happy epilogue .
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from the author and this is my review.
Ryan Hawthorne is a fashion designer, Graeme Dallen is a master gardener, and Arthur Johnson is an archeology professor and field archeologist, each man an artist in their own field. Both Ryan and Graeme have had their dreams stomped on. Ryan's fashion career was derailed when his designs were stolen in Milan by his employer. Graeme's divorce outed him as gay and the man he'd fallen in love with, left him. Arthur was a consummate flirt, there'd been a post-grad graduate student scandal and the Dean was trying to find a way to get rid of him, without "tarnishing" the University.
They have a summer to explore their very mutual attractions. Arthur is the most confident. He leads the way. The three of them are bedroom creative, spicy as heck. So tender, so sweet, so oh me gosh! And we get a very happy epilogue .
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from the author and this is my review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I’ve always said that the best way to capture the spark of imagination is to get out of your mind and into your body.”
This is book 8 in the series, The Art of Love, by Merry Farmer. This is only the third book I've read in this series but it's my favorite so far and that cover is to die for. I do need to go back and read the ones I missed out on.
I really love this boho family and Janice Hawthorne is quite the firecracker. She's the glue that holds the family together. She's always right where she needs to be when her family needs her.
I'm glad that Merry's muse and her characters encouraged her to write this as a throuple romance.
A fashion designer, gardener, and an archaeologist walk into a bar... Lol.
Hurt/comfort, three men in need of one another, homophobic parents who disown their son, a boss that won't take no for an answer, a dean standing in the way of a tenured position, fun times, tense times, romantic times, brings the heat
This is book 8 in the series, The Art of Love, by Merry Farmer. This is only the third book I've read in this series but it's my favorite so far and that cover is to die for. I do need to go back and read the ones I missed out on.
I really love this boho family and Janice Hawthorne is quite the firecracker. She's the glue that holds the family together. She's always right where she needs to be when her family needs her.
I'm glad that Merry's muse and her characters encouraged her to write this as a throuple romance.
A fashion designer, gardener, and an archaeologist walk into a bar... Lol.
Hurt/comfort, three men in need of one another, homophobic parents who disown their son, a boss that won't take no for an answer, a dean standing in the way of a tenured position, fun times, tense times, romantic times, brings the heat
January 25, 2026
Designed, The Art of Love book 8 by Merry Farmer brings her Hawthorne family series to a lovely close. Ryan, the Hawthorne family member in this tale, has left Italy under a cloud and has lost his fashion designing inspiration. Graeme has won the job to redo the estate's gardens, but is worried about running his own landscape architecture firm. Meanwhile, Art, a professor of Archeology is pulled in to excavate around the foundation of an old out building that Graeme comes upon as he begins his work. What begins as a seemingly obvious plot, Ryan meets Graeme and is smitten, quickly becomes more complicated and fun once Art's on the scene, and the book speeds toward its delightful, sometimes madcap conclusion. Happy reading of book 8, and the other seven if you haven't read them already.
January 25, 2026
This one had a lot going on in a good way. Ryan, Graeme and Arthur didn’t have an easy road and the mix of chaos, hurt feelings and tension kept things interesting.
There’s drama, insecurities and a fair amount of scheming but it never felt pointless. It all leads to them getting together. Nothing came easy for them.
Trust takes time, feelings don’t just neatly fall into place and they’re all unsure of where they stand both in their careers and with each other. I liked seeing how they each bring something different to the table and how things shift once they start leaning on each other instead of pulling away.
By the end, I wasn’t just entertained, I was invested. It left me curious and wanting more.
There’s drama, insecurities and a fair amount of scheming but it never felt pointless. It all leads to them getting together. Nothing came easy for them.
Trust takes time, feelings don’t just neatly fall into place and they’re all unsure of where they stand both in their careers and with each other. I liked seeing how they each bring something different to the table and how things shift once they start leaning on each other instead of pulling away.
By the end, I wasn’t just entertained, I was invested. It left me curious and wanting more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ryan, Graeme and Arthur story was quite interesting with shenanigans, a bit of drama and heartache, insecurities, plotting, hate, and struggles along the way.
I liked seeing the process of them falling in love, gaining trust in each other and their relationship, and how they confronted the obstacles together.
They had their hurdles and challenges along the way as they are uncertain in the beginning of their standing personally and professionally.
They each have their contribution to add to the mix, especially when they realise they are stronger together.
It was interesting and I’m curious about the next development.
I liked seeing the process of them falling in love, gaining trust in each other and their relationship, and how they confronted the obstacles together.
They had their hurdles and challenges along the way as they are uncertain in the beginning of their standing personally and professionally.
They each have their contribution to add to the mix, especially when they realise they are stronger together.
It was interesting and I’m curious about the next development.
January 29, 2026
In the final book of this series you meet three men with different issues come together and find love, which was not easy. Ryan Hawthorne is a fashion designer whose designs were stolen by his employer in Milan. Graeme Dallen a master landscaper who has been hired to redo the gardens at Hawthorne House. Divorced and outed as gay he worries if his business will be successful. Arthur Johnson is a professor and field archaeologist excavating around an outbuilding on the property. He is a flirt and there was a scandal about an affair he had. This story has drama, insecurities, and plenty of spice.
January 30, 2026
Ryan decides not to choose
I think Ryan is the last of the Hawthornes left to get a book in this series. He meets Graeme the gardener and these two hook up with Arthur an archeologist because of things that are found on the Hawthorne property. I enjoyed how the mystery was woven into the romance between the guys. I also like how we get more than just cameos from the characters from the other books. Another great volume from Merry Farmer.
I would love a prequel book about the Hawthorne parents who are delightful, but from what I understand about them this would have to be a series of books itself.
I think Ryan is the last of the Hawthornes left to get a book in this series. He meets Graeme the gardener and these two hook up with Arthur an archeologist because of things that are found on the Hawthorne property. I enjoyed how the mystery was woven into the romance between the guys. I also like how we get more than just cameos from the characters from the other books. Another great volume from Merry Farmer.
I would love a prequel book about the Hawthorne parents who are delightful, but from what I understand about them this would have to be a series of books itself.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book! Once again Merry Farmer blows it out of the park with this installment in the Art of Love series. I love how the men help each other and the immediate friendship that grows between them. I love how they build each other up and help heal the past hurts. One click this entire series if you haven't yet. You won't be disappointed!
I received an advanced copy from the author for my honest opinion.
I received an advanced copy from the author for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wonderful story of Ryan Hawthorne, designer, Graeme Dallen, gardener, and Arthur Johnson, archeologist who all meet at Hawthorne House. None of these characters expected to find love, let alone two, but love has its own ideas. Loved these characters, the Hawthorne family and the very satisfying outcome. Highly recommend.
January 28, 2026
Wonderful conclusion to the series
Ryan, Graeme, and Art have a fairly difficult road to their HEA.
All three men have some varying type of problems concerning their personal and professional lives.
Them working cohesiveley together in a relationship isn't magically resolved.
They have to learn to trust one another and lean on one another for help.
Ryan, Graeme, and Art have a fairly difficult road to their HEA.
All three men have some varying type of problems concerning their personal and professional lives.
Them working cohesiveley together in a relationship isn't magically resolved.
They have to learn to trust one another and lean on one another for help.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed getting to know Graeme, Ryan, and Art. All are totally different yet through each other, learning to love, accept themselves, and support one another. As they said, "we are better together. ". Wonderful story.
January 26, 2026
Designed is the eighth and final book in the Art of Love series, it can be read as a standalone. I don't read many throuple books, but I really enjoyed this one.
January 27, 2026
3.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ryan, Art & Graeme
This story was incredibly hilarious and there are more moments of laughter and silliness then I would have expected. As soon as we are introduced to Art in the story, he just takes over each scene but brings a sunshine quality to each of their moments together.
In MMM dynamics sometimes there is one of the trio that feels less worthy of the others, and in this story, that was definitely and unfortunately Graeme. But Art & Ryan worked hard to ensure that Graeme knew how each of them saw his worth and their eventual love. I really enjoy reading the different ways authors create their throuple dynamics, because while there are often several similarities, there is always something that stands out to separate the stories from one another, and I really like figuring out those details.
Designed was a fun adventure with the Hawthorne family and estate. I don't know if there will be any further Hawthorne family stories, but I will enjoy anything and everything that comes from Merry's imagination.
"If you're attempting to teach pencils to fly, darling, there's no point in invoking the call of the rooster. They're flightless birds." This was a ridiculous but hilarious moment, and I just loved the quote.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This story was incredibly hilarious and there are more moments of laughter and silliness then I would have expected. As soon as we are introduced to Art in the story, he just takes over each scene but brings a sunshine quality to each of their moments together.
In MMM dynamics sometimes there is one of the trio that feels less worthy of the others, and in this story, that was definitely and unfortunately Graeme. But Art & Ryan worked hard to ensure that Graeme knew how each of them saw his worth and their eventual love. I really enjoy reading the different ways authors create their throuple dynamics, because while there are often several similarities, there is always something that stands out to separate the stories from one another, and I really like figuring out those details.
Designed was a fun adventure with the Hawthorne family and estate. I don't know if there will be any further Hawthorne family stories, but I will enjoy anything and everything that comes from Merry's imagination.
"If you're attempting to teach pencils to fly, darling, there's no point in invoking the call of the rooster. They're flightless birds." This was a ridiculous but hilarious moment, and I just loved the quote.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
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