Title: The Proposal
Author: Mary Balogh
First published April 13, 2012
320 pages, ebook
ISBN: 9780345533579 (ISBN10: 0345533577)
Rating: 3.83
Overview
In Mary Balogh’s novel, The Proposal, Gwendoline has experienced her fair share of heartbreak and loss. Determined to live a peaceful life surrounded by loved ones, the young widow has no intention of remarrying.
However, when Hugo, a war hero and landowner, comes to her rescue after a fall, Gwendoline finds herself drawn to his strength and kindness. Though he needs a wife to fulfill his duties, Hugo is not interested in courting Gwendoline until he realizes he cannot resist her charm and beauty.
As they navigate courtship and desire, Gwendoline discovers that every moment spent with Hugo leaves her craving more. Will she give in to her heart’s desire and accept his proposal, or will she hold fast to her vow to never marry again?
Find out in this captivating tale of love, loss, and second chances.
About the Author
Mary Jenkins was born in Swansea, Wales, UK in 1944. After graduating from university, she ventured to Saskatchewan, Canada in 1967 to teach high school English for a two-year contract.
There, she fell in love with Robert Balogh, a Canadian, and they had three children: Jacqueline, Christopher, and Sian. When Mary isn’t writing, she enjoys reading, music, knitting, and watching tennis and curling.
Writing started as a hobby for Mary Balogh in the evenings. Her first book, a Regency love story, was published in 1985 under her married name.
In 1988, after 20 years of teaching, Mary retired to pursue her dream of writing full-time. Since then, she has published over seventy novels and nearly thirty novellas, including the New York Times best-selling ‘Slightly’ sextet and ‘Simply’ quartet.
Her work has garnered her numerous awards, including Bestselling Historical of the Year from the Borders Group, and her novel was a finalist in the Quill Awards. Mary has also won seven Waldenbooks Awards and two B.
Dalton Awards for her best-selling novels, as well as a Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award.
Editoral Review
Mary Balogh’s The Proposal is a captivating historical romance novel that will leave readers yearning for more. The book was first published on April 13, 2012, and since then, it has been widely acclaimed for its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and vivid descriptions of the Regency era.
As a renowned author in the romance genre, Mary Balogh has proven her ability to craft stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Her writing style is elegant and sophisticated, with a keen eye for detail that brings the past to life in a way that is both vivid and engaging.
The Proposal tells the story of Gwendoline, a young woman who is forced to marry a man she despises in order to save her family from financial ruin. However, when she meets Hugo, the Duke of Kilverton, she finds herself drawn to him despite their initial animosity towards each other.
As they navigate the complex social hierarchy of the Regency era, Gwendoline and Hugo must confront their own prejudices and fears in order to discover what truly matters in life.
Balogh’s characters are well-crafted and multi-dimensional, with each one possessing their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Gwendoline is a strong-willed and independent woman who refuses to be defined by her circumstances, while Hugo is a charming and charismatic aristocrat who must confront the limitations of his privilege.
Together, they make a compelling and dynamic duo that will keep readers hooked until the very end.
The setting of The Proposal is also beautifully rendered, with Balogh’s descriptions of the Regency era transporting readers back in time to a world of ballrooms, carriages, and high society. The author’s attention to historical detail is impeccable, and she flawlessly weaves together the social, political, and cultural context of the time period to create a rich and immersive world.
However, while The Proposal is a well-written and engaging novel, it does have some flaws. The pacing of the plot can be slow at times, and some readers may find the ending to be predictable.
Additionally, the book’s treatment of certain social issues, such as class and gender, may be seen as somewhat dated by contemporary standards.
Despite these limitations, The Proposal is still a must-read for fans of historical romance. Mary Balogh’s skillful storytelling and vivid descriptions of the Regency era make this book a true gem in the genre.
It is a captivating and entertaining read that will leave readers both satisfied and wanting more.
Overall, I would give The Proposal a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. While it is not perfect, it is a well-crafted and enjoyable novel that will appeal to anyone who loves a good romance.
Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a captivating read, The Proposal is definitely worth checking out.
