Craving Him, the second installment in Kendall Ryan's Love by Design series, picks up where Working It left off, diving deeper into the tumultuous romance between Emmy Clarke and Ben Shaw. Ryan, a New York Times bestselling author, has a knack for crafting stories that are both steamy and emotionally resonant, and this book is no exception. With its blend of romance, drama, and personal growth, Craving Him explores the complexities of love in a world filled with glamour and hidden truths.

The narrative centers around Emmy, a determined southern girl who has made significant strides in the cutthroat fashion industry of New York City. Having faced numerous challenges, including a demanding boss and the pressures of her new life, Emmy embodies resilience. Ryan does an excellent job of portraying her evolution from a naive country girl to a woman who is learning to navigate the complexities of her environment. This transformation is not just about career advancement; it’s also about personal growth and self-discovery.

Ben Shaw, the male model who has captured Emmy's heart, is equally complex. He is portrayed as a man with a troubled past, which adds depth to his character. Ryan skillfully reveals Ben's vulnerabilities, making him relatable despite his glamorous lifestyle. The tension between Emmy and Ben is palpable, fueled by their undeniable chemistry and the weight of their respective pasts. The author does not shy away from exploring the emotional baggage that both characters carry, which serves to enrich their relationship and the overall narrative.

One of the central themes of Craving Him is the idea of forgiveness and the struggle to accept one another's flaws. Emmy's journey is marked by her desire to support Ben, even as she grapples with the implications of his past actions. The revelation of a shocking secret from Ben's history serves as a pivotal moment in the story, forcing Emmy to confront her feelings and question the foundation of their relationship. This conflict is not merely a plot device; it reflects real-life challenges that many couples face when dealing with trust and commitment.

Ryan's writing style is engaging and fluid, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the story. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the banter between Emmy and Ben while also conveying their deeper emotional struggles. The pacing of the book is well-balanced, with moments of tension interspersed with lighter, more romantic scenes that keep the reader invested in the characters' journey.

Another noteworthy aspect of Craving Him is its exploration of the fashion industry. Ryan provides a glimpse into the glamorous yet often ruthless world of modeling and design, highlighting the sacrifices and challenges that come with it. This backdrop not only serves to enhance the story but also adds a layer of authenticity to Emmy's experiences. Readers who enjoy stories set in the fashion realm will find this aspect particularly appealing.

In terms of character development, both Emmy and Ben undergo significant transformations throughout the book. Emmy learns to assert herself and embrace her identity, while Ben confronts his past and the consequences of his actions. Their growth is not linear, and Ryan does an admirable job of depicting the ups and downs of their relationship. The emotional stakes are high, and readers will find themselves rooting for the couple as they navigate their challenges.

While Craving Him is a standalone novel, it benefits from the foundation laid in Working It. Readers who enjoyed the first book will appreciate the continuation of Emmy and Ben's story, as well as the deeper exploration of their characters. However, new readers can also dive into this installment without feeling lost, as Ryan provides enough context to understand the characters' backgrounds and motivations.

In comparison to other contemporary romances, Craving Him stands out for its emotional depth and character-driven narrative. Readers who enjoy works by authors like Christina Lauren or Tessa Bailey will likely find Kendall Ryan's writing style and thematic focus appealing. The blend of romance, personal growth, and the challenges of modern relationships resonates throughout the book, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.

Overall, Craving Him is a captivating addition to the Love by Design series that explores the intricacies of love, trust, and personal growth. Kendall Ryan has crafted a story that is both sexy and heartfelt, leaving readers eager to see what lies ahead for Emmy and Ben. With its relatable characters and engaging plot, this book is sure to satisfy fans of contemporary romance.