Wicked Design by Tina Donahue is a novel that swings open the doors to a world brimming with passion, secrets, and a touch of the supernatural. In this engaging read, Donahue explores the realms of desire and danger, crafting a narrative that's as intriguing as it is titillating. The book, which is categorized within the romance and erotica genres, does an excellent job of blending steamy scenes with a compelling story, making it a complete package for readers looking for more than just fleeting thrills.

The story revolves around Callie, a graphic designer, whose mundane life takes a dramatic turn when she inherits an old mansion in the heart of Louisiana's bayous. But this is no ordinary inheritance. The mansion comes with mysteries and legends, whispers of curses, and spirits lurking in the shadows. As Callie delves into her new property, she encounters Logan, a mysterious and incredibly seductive man with secrets of his own. The chemistry between Callie and Logan ignites almost immediately, leading the reader into a whirlwind of passion and peril.

What sets Wicked Design apart from the typical erotica is how well Donahue marries the erotic scenes with the story. The sexual tension between Callie and Logan is palpable, and their encounters are vividly described, straddling the line between raw passion and a deeper, perhaps dangerous, love. However, these sequences do not feel imposed or gratuitous. Instead, they serve to enhance the characters’ emotional depth and the overall storyline, enriching the narrative rather than diverting from it.

The supernatural elements are interwoven with skill, enhancing the gothic nature of the setting without overwhelming the central romance. The descriptions of the Louisiana bayou are particularly evocative, creating a haunting backdrop that complements the story's darker themes. Donahue’s use of setting is a testament to her abilities as a storyteller, using the environment to heighten the suspense and mystique.

Furthermore, Tina Donahue’s characterization deserves a nod. Both Callie and Logan are well-rounded characters, each with their complexities and inner conflicts. Callie is portrayed as strong yet vulnerable, a woman who is thrust into an unfamiliar, supernatural side of her family legacy. Her development throughout the book is not only in terms of her relationship with Logan but also her acceptance of her own heritage and the supernatural responsibilities it entails. Logan, on the other hand, is more than just an alluring love interest. His layers unravel as the story progresses, revealing a man caught between love and duty, which adds depth to his interactions with Callie.

The pacing of the book is brisk, with twists and dangers that keep the pages turning. However, there are moments, especially towards the climax, where the balance tilts slightly more in favor of the supernatural elements, which might not sit well with all readers. Nevertheless, for those who enjoy a dash of otherworldly intrigue with their romance, this shift will be a welcome depth to the passionate tale.

In terms of drawbacks, the book occasionally dips into clichés common in both the romance and supernatural genres. Certain plot points are predictable, and some might find the resolution a tad convenient. Additionally, while the erotic elements are well-handled, they are explicit, which means this book might not be suitable for everyone. It’s targeted at an adult audience, and it's essential for potential readers to approach it with this in mind.

Overall, Wicked Design is a commendable novel that offers a fiery romance enveloped in a thrilling, supernatural cocoon. Tina Donahue has created a story that is both heart-pounding and heart-warming, a challenging balance to achieve in any genre. Fans of erotic romance with a twist of the paranormal will find this a gratifying read, as will anyone open to a love story with an intensity that not only exists in the emotional exchanges but also the thematic backdrop against which these emotions unfold.

To sum it up, Wicked Design is captivating and erotic—perfect for those long, quiet nights when the boundary between the real and the surreal seems intriguingly thin.