Louisa Masters kicks off this fashion forward contemporary universe with COUTURE. This is a not so opposites attract slow burn romance.
From the blurb:
Growing a fashion atelier from the ground up isn’t easy, but it’s still awesome. I design gorgeous clothes that people pay a lot of money for, I work with my best friend, and Hollywood A-listers are starting to murmur my name. Things couldn’t be better.
Except anxiety is a beast that’s ridden me my whole life. It doesn’t matter how good things might be, there’s always something it takes exception to. And when my baseline stress starts to rise, I become nonverbal.
Which is why my first encounter with celebrity stylist Griff Pevensy is both a dream and a nightmare. I have the chance to design an awards gown for one of the most iconic women in the industry, but a mostly silent meeting plus a design that’s not really his style aren’t likely to get me past gatekeeper Griff. If I want to make this gown, I need to connect with him and win him over.
That turns out to be a lot easier than expected. Who knew I’d have so much in common with an ex-Marine stylist who prefers to communicate in grunts? We both love fashion, his perfect princess dog, hanging out with my codependent friends… and maybe each other.
The new problem is… how unprofessional can we get before people notice? And how much do I care?
Molly Otto's review:
Couture takes place in Louisa Masters new contemporary universe but with visits from old friends of her previous works. Griff & Phil on the outside seem to be complete opposites but when they work together for a huge client they learn they aren't so different after all. Phil has severe anxiety that manifest into selective mutism when it gets harder than normal to handle. Louisa does a beautiful job in explaining and showing how Phil's inner circle handles him in these episodes showing he is his own man just needs some assistance from time to time. Griff does spectacularly in understanding and placing help where it is needed, as well as knowing when to step back to not offend Phil during these episodes. The entire cast were great in their friendships and love for each other that showed with each interaction. Loved that this was a slow burn showing what both men needed to be able to have a lasting relationship. Together they show they are stronger and need each other in their own way. What a great way to kick off a series, and I for one am looking forward to more from this world.
SNik's review:
First in series (Style Me). Mental health representation. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Phil is an up and coming fashion designer when he meets with celebrity stylist Griff for the first time. Although it might be a big break for his career, Phil is more interested in getting to know Griff, and their mutual attraction takes off.
This is a slow build in terms of the book but a relatively quick relationship in a short time frame, but everything about Griff and Phil works seamlessly between them. I appreciated Griff’s earnest protectiveness and understanding of Phil’s anxiety, and Phil’s quick trusting nature even though he has been burned before. The friends and family in this book are brilliant and supportive, and the peek into behind the fashion and stylist industries was entertaining and interesting. Overall, a sweet introduction to a new series, I look forward to seeing who else will be getting their HEA in the fashion industry surrounding Style Me folk.
Heather's Review:
I love a book with good communication and good intuition and once Phil and Griff get past their initial miscommunication, this book starts to flow beautifully! I also love the way the friends and family aspect comes together and is so supportive! The plot twist and tension are mostly external, which again, makes this book a great slow burn read with a lovely HEA.
Couture is currently available as an e-book and paperback
Comments
Post a Comment