Tom and Dustin have had the same plan since they were fifteen: finish school, become architects, and someday open a firm together that designs homes people can actually afford. There’s just one problem. Dustin can afford tuition at Merritt University, but he can’t afford a place to live.
Then Tom discovers Whitaker Court—cheap, university-owned housing with one very inconvenient requirement. It’s for married students only. Getting married is obviously a terrible idea. So naturally, they do it. A courthouse ceremony, a shared last name, and a cramped one-bedroom apartment should be enough to convince everyone they’re newlyweds. They’ve been best friends most of their lives. Pretending to be in love should be easy.
Except their new marriage comes with boundaries neither of them expected. Tom has spent years happily dating women, but one careless hookup could expose their arrangement and cost Dustin his apartment, his education, and the future they’ve spent years planning. Then forced proximity starts feeling a little too intimate. Sharing a bed becomes something they both look forward to. Kisses meant for appearances start happening when no one is watching. And the line between helping your best friend and wanting him becomes impossible to draw.
For Dustin, that might be the most frightening part. He’s spent his life believing love lasts only until it becomes inconvenient. Tom has always been the person who stayed—but staying out of loyalty isn’t the same as choosing someone forever. Their marriage began as a loophole. Now they have to decide whether the life they’re building together was real all along.
“Married by Design” explores the intricacies of growing up and falling in love. This book follows two boys, Tom and Dustin, as they navigate the complexities of their friendship and budding romance against unexpected backdrops.
The writing shines, especially in its portrayal of the engaging banter between Tom and Dustin. Their interactions are laced with humor, making their journey enjoyable as they face the chaos life throws their way. Their exchanges not only entertain but also highlight the strength of their bond, showing how friendship can evolve into something deeper.
However, the narrative has shortcomings. One notable absence is Tom and Dustin’s coming-out moment to Tom’s parents. This lack of parental involvement leaves a gap in the story that could have added tension and depth. Whether handled with humor or angst, this dimension might have enriched their journey and made it feel more complete.
While the book captures the essence of young love and friendship, exploring family dynamics could have elevated it further by giving a more rounded view of the characters’ challenges. Despite this, the tale remains a memorable exploration of chaotic yet passionate love and the beauty of growing up together.
About The Author
Harry Applebottom is a hopeful romantic and a gay erotic romance author here to unabashedly satiate and titillate your inner carnal desires with lots of steam, heart, and love. Harry’s works range from short stories and novellas to full-length novels of various subgenres, where every story ends with a happy ending.
My review of Filling His Cookie Cutter
My review of There’s Us
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