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Romance By Design #1
Sets Appeal
In the cosmopolitan coastal city of Adelaide in South Australia, two theater lovers create a little drama of their own…
Twenty-seven-year-old divorcée Vix Tremain finally has her first job—as a theater-set painter—and is ready to leave the past behind. What better way to get her confidence back than a fling with a handsome stranger? She isn’t looking for anything emotional, she’s had enough heartbreak. Rugged Jay Dee, the set construction manager, fits the bill for no strings fun perfectly. What Vix doesn’t realize is that Jay is not exactly a stranger . .
Twenty-seven-year-old divorcée Vix Tremain finally has her first job—as a theater-set painter—and is ready to leave the past behind. What better way to get her confidence back than a fling with a handsome stranger? She isn’t looking for anything emotional, she’s had enough heartbreak. Rugged Jay Dee, the set construction manager, fits the bill for no strings fun perfectly. What Vix doesn’t realize is that Jay is not exactly a stranger . .
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Published April 25, 2017
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215 people want to read
About the author
Virginia Taylor
22 books93 followersVirginia is a full time writer who used to be a nurse/midwife, a scenic painter and designer, a renovator of heritage houses, and still is an avid gardener. She is also a bad driver, an unenthusiastic cook and a reader of all things bookish.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
April 26, 2017
Couldn't stop reading it!
Young and newly divorced Vix just wants a quickie to regain her bearings after a bad marriage but falls in love with the handsome Jay Dee. Secrets threaten to separate them but true love wins out, as it should.
It was a good book and I really enjoyed it. Will be reading more from this author.
Young and newly divorced Vix just wants a quickie to regain her bearings after a bad marriage but falls in love with the handsome Jay Dee. Secrets threaten to separate them but true love wins out, as it should.
It was a good book and I really enjoyed it. Will be reading more from this author.
April 10, 2017
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is April 25th, 2017.
Whenever I receive a galley to read, I feel a huge sense of responsibility knowing that this is a way to get word out about a book. That sense of responsibility turns to guilt when I do not enjoy a book and this was the case with this story. I need to remind myself that the whole concept is to be honest in my feedback so I will force the guilt aside and provide my thoughts.
I really disliked the character of Vix. She came across as a spoiled rich girl which is exactly the opposite of how I believe she was to come across. It just didn't come through in the execution. First she sets out to use Jay for sex, then she contemplates if she can buy him just like she bought her first husband. What does that even mean? Her first husband was using her and she was a wallflower so why did she buy him? It doesn't make sense. Then there are references to how she was exhausted after working for two weeks (the first time ever in her life). Its hard to feel sorry for her when the general population is working for a living. I can't see many of us working professionals identifying with her dilemma. I had my first job at fourteen, because I wanted one, and I know the value of pride in a job well done. It did not make her appealing to me.
Then the story goes on to describe Vix' stepmother who looks good for age. She was in her mid forties! I saw red! While not yet in that demographic, I am chasing it, and I was seriously offended. Mid forties is young and I know a ton of fabulous, beautiful, and young people in their mid forties. This is not old. Many woman are just having their first child at this age. I almost put the book down for good at this point. This is a great way to alienate the exact demographic that this story should be appealing to.
My last annoyance, and I admit that it is a small one but I was annoyed at this point, was the overuse of the colour citrus. There were clothes in citrus hues, paint, and wall colours, you name it. I would have found it funny if honestly perhaps not have noticed if I was enjoying the story more. It is safe to say that citrus is Vix's favorite colour.
Sadly, I did not enjoy this story and I can't recommend it. It just hit some sensitive areas in the wrong way.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is April 25th, 2017.
Whenever I receive a galley to read, I feel a huge sense of responsibility knowing that this is a way to get word out about a book. That sense of responsibility turns to guilt when I do not enjoy a book and this was the case with this story. I need to remind myself that the whole concept is to be honest in my feedback so I will force the guilt aside and provide my thoughts.
I really disliked the character of Vix. She came across as a spoiled rich girl which is exactly the opposite of how I believe she was to come across. It just didn't come through in the execution. First she sets out to use Jay for sex, then she contemplates if she can buy him just like she bought her first husband. What does that even mean? Her first husband was using her and she was a wallflower so why did she buy him? It doesn't make sense. Then there are references to how she was exhausted after working for two weeks (the first time ever in her life). Its hard to feel sorry for her when the general population is working for a living. I can't see many of us working professionals identifying with her dilemma. I had my first job at fourteen, because I wanted one, and I know the value of pride in a job well done. It did not make her appealing to me.
Then the story goes on to describe Vix' stepmother who looks good for age. She was in her mid forties! I saw red! While not yet in that demographic, I am chasing it, and I was seriously offended. Mid forties is young and I know a ton of fabulous, beautiful, and young people in their mid forties. This is not old. Many woman are just having their first child at this age. I almost put the book down for good at this point. This is a great way to alienate the exact demographic that this story should be appealing to.
My last annoyance, and I admit that it is a small one but I was annoyed at this point, was the overuse of the colour citrus. There were clothes in citrus hues, paint, and wall colours, you name it. I would have found it funny if honestly perhaps not have noticed if I was enjoying the story more. It is safe to say that citrus is Vix's favorite colour.
Sadly, I did not enjoy this story and I can't recommend it. It just hit some sensitive areas in the wrong way.
March 25, 2017
4.5 Stars
For the first time in her life, Vix Tremain is determined to leave the past behind, especially her no good ex-husband and succeed in becoming an independent woman who doesn't need a man. She's off to a good start with her first ever job, even if it's only as a theatre painter, but what she really needs is to regain her confidence. Can she convince the set construction manager into having a no strings fling?
Ms. Taylor is a new-to-me author, but when I saw the cover of this book I really wanted to read it. Even more so, this story is set in my home country, so that also along with the blurb were other reasons I wanted to dive into this story, and I've got to say that it does not disappoint. First off, the play on words of the title (Sets Appeal / Sex Appeal) definitely does justice to the hero and the other male characters of this story, because they certainly sound appealing by their ruggedly handsome descriptions; and the story itself, as it encompasses a couple that are designing a set for a production. The way this story started had me hooked right away, as I wanted to know how things would progress between the hero and heroine. Would she feel comfortable enough with JD to have a fling? Why is she so nervous when it comes to getting up close and personal with the hero in the beginning?
The dialogue was intense due to the main characters back stories, and I could sympathize with the heroine after all that she went through with her ex-husband. He's made her feel so insecure when it comes to intimacy and relationships that I could understand why she is the way she is with the hero. Yet, at the same time, it did annoy me a little, because it was palpable the hero was determined to prove she had nothing to worry about. That she can have a wonderful time in the bedroom, if she's willing to let the hero get a tad creative, instead of settling for mediocre measures that leave her unsatisfied.
Both the main characters were riveting, and so were the secondary characters, even Ilona. Although, her fascination with the hero got to be a bit too much. Doesn't she realize that they'll only ever be friends? As for the heroine, she's been through a lot due to her ex-husband, but she didn't allow him to keep her down for long. Certainly, she begins to shine again, become more confident and I liked that she fought for what she wanted when it came to her relationship with JD and the conflict it created with her father. Would Vix believe the hero when it came to the information her father knew about him that she didn't?
While JD, he was a fantastic hero that I could not get enough of. He's supportive of the heroine's dreams and what she's accomplished after her marriage split. Certainly, she's not what he imagined of a rich girl who hasn't worked a day in her life until now. Instead, she impressed him with her determination to succeed and how much she loves her work. She's just like him in that respect, as he too, is hard-working and determined to achieve his own dream, which was derailed by an incident concerning someone the heroine was once close to.
Overall, Ms. Taylor has penned a really good read in this book where the chemistry between these two is wonderfully written and shows how right this hero and heroine are for each other. The way this story ended had me cheering for this couple's happy ever after, as no one deserves a second chance at love more than the heroine and it's palpable that this time around everything will work out for the better. Since I doubt JD would ever wrong the heroine like her ex did. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as I loved the playful banter between the main and secondary characters and the way JD's brothers have such respect for the heroine considering her family name. Who would give a child the name they were talking about? I would recommend Sets Appeal by Virginia Taylor, if you enjoy second chance romances or books by authors Stacy Finz, Darcy Burke or Melanie Shawn.
For the first time in her life, Vix Tremain is determined to leave the past behind, especially her no good ex-husband and succeed in becoming an independent woman who doesn't need a man. She's off to a good start with her first ever job, even if it's only as a theatre painter, but what she really needs is to regain her confidence. Can she convince the set construction manager into having a no strings fling?
Ms. Taylor is a new-to-me author, but when I saw the cover of this book I really wanted to read it. Even more so, this story is set in my home country, so that also along with the blurb were other reasons I wanted to dive into this story, and I've got to say that it does not disappoint. First off, the play on words of the title (Sets Appeal / Sex Appeal) definitely does justice to the hero and the other male characters of this story, because they certainly sound appealing by their ruggedly handsome descriptions; and the story itself, as it encompasses a couple that are designing a set for a production. The way this story started had me hooked right away, as I wanted to know how things would progress between the hero and heroine. Would she feel comfortable enough with JD to have a fling? Why is she so nervous when it comes to getting up close and personal with the hero in the beginning?
The dialogue was intense due to the main characters back stories, and I could sympathize with the heroine after all that she went through with her ex-husband. He's made her feel so insecure when it comes to intimacy and relationships that I could understand why she is the way she is with the hero. Yet, at the same time, it did annoy me a little, because it was palpable the hero was determined to prove she had nothing to worry about. That she can have a wonderful time in the bedroom, if she's willing to let the hero get a tad creative, instead of settling for mediocre measures that leave her unsatisfied.
Both the main characters were riveting, and so were the secondary characters, even Ilona. Although, her fascination with the hero got to be a bit too much. Doesn't she realize that they'll only ever be friends? As for the heroine, she's been through a lot due to her ex-husband, but she didn't allow him to keep her down for long. Certainly, she begins to shine again, become more confident and I liked that she fought for what she wanted when it came to her relationship with JD and the conflict it created with her father. Would Vix believe the hero when it came to the information her father knew about him that she didn't?
While JD, he was a fantastic hero that I could not get enough of. He's supportive of the heroine's dreams and what she's accomplished after her marriage split. Certainly, she's not what he imagined of a rich girl who hasn't worked a day in her life until now. Instead, she impressed him with her determination to succeed and how much she loves her work. She's just like him in that respect, as he too, is hard-working and determined to achieve his own dream, which was derailed by an incident concerning someone the heroine was once close to.
Overall, Ms. Taylor has penned a really good read in this book where the chemistry between these two is wonderfully written and shows how right this hero and heroine are for each other. The way this story ended had me cheering for this couple's happy ever after, as no one deserves a second chance at love more than the heroine and it's palpable that this time around everything will work out for the better. Since I doubt JD would ever wrong the heroine like her ex did. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as I loved the playful banter between the main and secondary characters and the way JD's brothers have such respect for the heroine considering her family name. Who would give a child the name they were talking about? I would recommend Sets Appeal by Virginia Taylor, if you enjoy second chance romances or books by authors Stacy Finz, Darcy Burke or Melanie Shawn.
May 6, 2017
I read a very scathing review about this book and was surprised that a writer I had previously enjoyed could have received such negative feedback. I decided to read the book earlier than intended, to investigate.
From the first few chapters my attention was firmly secured by the main character's risky attempt to salvage her sense of self worth after a failed previous relationship. By the end of the first chapter my heart ached for her as I recognised the dogged determination we must all find after a crushing setback in order to lay claim in life to personal happiness and purpose. I agonised over the embarrassing position she put herself in on their first night together. And I discovered that although would never in a million years take the same action, I could identify with Vix in spirit. It occurred to me then that that is the secret of good writing.
Thus secured, my interest grew stronger as the writer carefully revealed the characteristics of the main characters. I found myself identifying with the strong work ethics each portrayed, with Vix's need for tidiness and organisation, and with their proactive care for those around them. I loved catching a glimpse of a skill entirely new to me. I have always loved theatre and musicals in particular, but to have such a clear picture of some of the work that goes into preparing the visual 'magic' of it all sums up one of the main reasons I read fiction. It is to vicariously experience aspects of life that just one lifetime has too limited time to explore.
I found this love story charming, and even in the last few chapters, more endearing characteristics of Vix were revealed. A story unfolds in it's own time.
My scientific training would not allow me to forego mentioning a few numbers.
The word CITRUS was used in the book 6 times.
The word BLUE WAS USED 24 times.
The word WHITE was used 35 times.
I can't work out how the reviewer came to the conclusion that citrus was Vix's favourite colour.
I know not everyone 'gets' the more subtle forms of humour such as tongue in cheek, play on words, play on ideas, deprecating, flirty, dark, gallows etc. Those of us that do, like me, may dislike slap-stick and sarcastic humour. If a book is not to your taste, I would suggest abandoning it in favour of something that pleases rather than asking for sympathy for giving a bad review. Nice try though :)
5 stars. I think this is your best so far Virginia.
From the first few chapters my attention was firmly secured by the main character's risky attempt to salvage her sense of self worth after a failed previous relationship. By the end of the first chapter my heart ached for her as I recognised the dogged determination we must all find after a crushing setback in order to lay claim in life to personal happiness and purpose. I agonised over the embarrassing position she put herself in on their first night together. And I discovered that although would never in a million years take the same action, I could identify with Vix in spirit. It occurred to me then that that is the secret of good writing.
Thus secured, my interest grew stronger as the writer carefully revealed the characteristics of the main characters. I found myself identifying with the strong work ethics each portrayed, with Vix's need for tidiness and organisation, and with their proactive care for those around them. I loved catching a glimpse of a skill entirely new to me. I have always loved theatre and musicals in particular, but to have such a clear picture of some of the work that goes into preparing the visual 'magic' of it all sums up one of the main reasons I read fiction. It is to vicariously experience aspects of life that just one lifetime has too limited time to explore.
I found this love story charming, and even in the last few chapters, more endearing characteristics of Vix were revealed. A story unfolds in it's own time.
My scientific training would not allow me to forego mentioning a few numbers.
The word CITRUS was used in the book 6 times.
The word BLUE WAS USED 24 times.
The word WHITE was used 35 times.
I can't work out how the reviewer came to the conclusion that citrus was Vix's favourite colour.
I know not everyone 'gets' the more subtle forms of humour such as tongue in cheek, play on words, play on ideas, deprecating, flirty, dark, gallows etc. Those of us that do, like me, may dislike slap-stick and sarcastic humour. If a book is not to your taste, I would suggest abandoning it in favour of something that pleases rather than asking for sympathy for giving a bad review. Nice try though :)
5 stars. I think this is your best so far Virginia.
July 10, 2019
Enjoyed it
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Romance by Design
Standalone
HEA
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Romance by Design
Standalone
HEA
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
July 23, 2021
It was an okay read:)
April 6, 2017
Sets Appeal is a well written romance. I loved the Australia setting. Good plot with lots of dynamics between the characters. My first book by this author. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC. This is my unbiased review.
April 8, 2017
I enjoyed this book and can't wait to try more from this author in the future.I just loved Vix and J,D they were super characters just loved the support he gave her a good read that held my interest.Looking forward to reading more.
April 30, 2017
Victoria/ Vix is attending a party the first in a year. But this party is a pre- production getting- to - know function held for the cast and crew of the stage version of High Society. But Vix is having an extreme case of stage fright She is giving J D/Jay the theater set builder a ride home and he is to make her a cup of coffee. Vix is trying to find what she missed the seven years when she had been married. Vix had gotten fired eighteen months ago. JD said his team does four sets a year. Awkward, tactless Victoria had barely spoken to a man the past year that is why she decided to shake up her image and herself. Marrying young Vix really hadn’t been in the dating scene. JD asked asked what was the hurry when they would be working together but Vix said when your job is done mine begins and we won’t really be seeing each other. Vix had been cheated on, taken advantage of, and left humiliated. She wanted to be a bad girl and have a one night of satisfying sex would do figuring on Jay. this would go far to prove she wasn’t frigid, repressed, and sexless as she had been told that is what Vix wanted. Jay didn’t have time for a relationship but a casual affair would be just great. Knowing Vix was Tim’s ex only added to her appeal. As Tim had screwed his future up. Vix is on her first job ever as a set painter. Vix impressed Jay with her determination to succeed and how much she loved to work. She didn’t come across a snobby rich girl.
I liked this book quite a bit. I thought it had a good plot. And was a good read. I loved how JD asked Vix why she was in such a rush. I loved how Vix wants to change her life but why with a one night stand I would think that was demeaning or something not exactly positive. I understand her need to prove to herself what Tim said about her sexually is false. At times Vix did come across a rich girl who hadn’t worked like being exhausted after working for two weeks. That is something a lot of people have to work day in day out for most of their lives. Also why was Vix thinking about “Buying” Jay did she not learn anything from Tim and her marriage? Also can Jay be bought? I enjoyed this but some things did irritate me. But I still really liked the romance although some things did disappoint me about Jay and Vix.
I liked this book quite a bit. I thought it had a good plot. And was a good read. I loved how JD asked Vix why she was in such a rush. I loved how Vix wants to change her life but why with a one night stand I would think that was demeaning or something not exactly positive. I understand her need to prove to herself what Tim said about her sexually is false. At times Vix did come across a rich girl who hadn’t worked like being exhausted after working for two weeks. That is something a lot of people have to work day in day out for most of their lives. Also why was Vix thinking about “Buying” Jay did she not learn anything from Tim and her marriage? Also can Jay be bought? I enjoyed this but some things did irritate me. But I still really liked the romance although some things did disappoint me about Jay and Vix.
August 2, 2017
Whether writing contemporary fiction or Australian historicals, Virginia Taylor never fails to impress me with her easy to read and descriptive style. When you fall in love with the characters, you know you are reading a well-crafted story.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews