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Available
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Publication
Dell Publishing Company (2013), Edition: Reprint, Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages
Description
Fiction. Romance. Historical Fiction. HTML:�??This is Mary Balogh at her riveting best.�?��??#1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber Gwendoline, Lady Muir, has seen her share of tragedy. Content in a quiet life with friends and family, the young widow has no desire to marry again. But when Hugo, Lord Trentham, scoops her up in his arms after a fall, she feels a sensation that both shocks and emboldens her. Hugo is a gentleman in name only: a war hero whose bravery earned him a title, a merchant�??s son who inherited his wealth. He is happiest when working the land, but duty and title now demand that he finds a wife. Hugo doesn�??t wish to court Gwen, yet he cannot resist her guileless manner, infectious laugh, and lovely face. He wants her, but will she have him? The dour ex-military officer who so gallantly carried Gwen to safety is a man who needs a lesson in winning a woman�??s heart. But through courtship and seduction, Gwen soon finds that with each kiss, and with every caress, Hugo captivates her more�??with his desire, with his love, and with the promise of forever. �??[Mary Balogh] writes with wit and wisdom. . . . The Proposal is both moving and entertaining and the beginning of what promises to be an outstanding series.�?��??Romance Reviews Today �??A historical romance of unusual thoughtfulness and depth.�?��??Publishers Weekly Includes a preview of M… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member xorscape
I received a copy of The Proposal by Mary Balogh from Librarything’s Early Reviewers. I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story centers on our hero, a member of the Survivor’s Club, and our heroine, herself a survivor of adversity with the added bonus of being a character from
Gwen, Lady Muir, is the widowed sister of the Neville, Earl of Kilbourne. She was permanently injured in a riding accident that also took the life of her unborn child. Her husband died a year later from a fall in their home. Hugo Emes, Lord Trentham, received his title for bravery, but suffered severe psychological problems from his war experience. He is from the affluent middle class and believes he should marry to help his family and carry on as his father wanted.
These two meet when Gwen falls and sprains her ankle. Hugo is attracted to her but believes she is pampered and useless. She thinks he is morose, blunt and rude. The story follows their attraction and dislike. I think I enjoyed the story so much because they were honest with each other. This isn’t one of those stories where the only plot is miscommunication (or no communication). It is a story of real class differences and two people’s journey to find a way to make their relationship work.
There are, of course, bad guys and good guys and the people caught in circumstance or illness. These parts of the story serve to give us an insight into the story and time, but I wish these had a stronger presence. Oh, and the Duke and Duchess of Bewcastle make an appearance. I am always glad to see them. I only gave the book 4 ½ stars because the action was thin, but then again, I wasn’t bored.
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the Bedwyn saga and its prequels. This new series concerns seven people who suffered serious physical or emotional wounds from the Napoleonic Wars. These seven spent several years at Penderris Hall, the home of the Duke of Stanbrook, trying to recover. They meet each year to continue the support.Gwen, Lady Muir, is the widowed sister of the Neville, Earl of Kilbourne. She was permanently injured in a riding accident that also took the life of her unborn child. Her husband died a year later from a fall in their home. Hugo Emes, Lord Trentham, received his title for bravery, but suffered severe psychological problems from his war experience. He is from the affluent middle class and believes he should marry to help his family and carry on as his father wanted.
These two meet when Gwen falls and sprains her ankle. Hugo is attracted to her but believes she is pampered and useless. She thinks he is morose, blunt and rude. The story follows their attraction and dislike. I think I enjoyed the story so much because they were honest with each other. This isn’t one of those stories where the only plot is miscommunication (or no communication). It is a story of real class differences and two people’s journey to find a way to make their relationship work.
There are, of course, bad guys and good guys and the people caught in circumstance or illness. These parts of the story serve to give us an insight into the story and time, but I wish these had a stronger presence. Oh, and the Duke and Duchess of Bewcastle make an appearance. I am always glad to see them. I only gave the book 4 ½ stars because the action was thin, but then again, I wasn’t bored.
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LibraryThing member Conkie
I loved this book!
Ms. Balogh does subtlety and nuance so well. Her stories do not lead the reader around by their nose. The characters act and talk with consistency throughout AND her H/H's are never perfect; thankfully so.
I am looking forward to the next installment to the "Survivor's Club"
NOTE Audio Listeners: I think you'll find Rebecca de Leeuw's voice and read a very positive change from past Balogh books read by Anne Flosnik. Ms. de Leeuw "gets" Mary Balogh's writing.
Ms. Balogh does subtlety and nuance so well. Her stories do not lead the reader around by their nose. The characters act and talk with consistency throughout AND her H/H's are never perfect; thankfully so.
I am looking forward to the next installment to the "Survivor's Club"
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series, which is a real change for me. I have grown very weary of the historical romance genre. NOTE Audio Listeners: I think you'll find Rebecca de Leeuw's voice and read a very positive change from past Balogh books read by Anne Flosnik. Ms. de Leeuw "gets" Mary Balogh's writing.
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LibraryThing member Jaitai16
The Proposal was classic Mary Balogh and while I won't go as far as to say it was her best book I did enjoy it. The prosal is the story of two scarred people who struggle to understand how to love. Hugo is a reluctant war hero who has issues coming to term with being heralded as a hero, when he
The heat between Hugo and Gwen up front kept me intrested in beginning and the other future heros and heroines that were sprinkled through the story makes me eager to read the rest of the series. It was way better than the Secret Mistress which frankly I had a hard time getting through.
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spent the war killing other men. I found my self liking him a lot. Gwen I had a little more trouble warming up to, though I am hard pressed to say why.The heat between Hugo and Gwen up front kept me intrested in beginning and the other future heros and heroines that were sprinkled through the story makes me eager to read the rest of the series. It was way better than the Secret Mistress which frankly I had a hard time getting through.
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LibraryThing member SockMonkeyGirl
I have been waiting for Gwen's story, as Balogh is not the type of author to leave marriageable characters floundering without their own book. The story did not disappoint.
Hugo and Gwen are both scarred by their pasts and on the surface seem to have little in common. However, as they reveal more of
The only bit that seemed off was the very beginning. I fully believed the initial attraction and physical consummation happening quite early in the story. However, both Hugo and Gwen shared personal stories so quickly that it felt a bit false. Other than the slight fault at the beginning, I really enjoyed this story and am glad that Gwen got her happy ending.
Hugo and Gwen are both scarred by their pasts and on the surface seem to have little in common. However, as they reveal more of
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themselves to each other, I eventually felt that they were very well suited. I especially enjoyed Hugo and his transformation.The only bit that seemed off was the very beginning. I fully believed the initial attraction and physical consummation happening quite early in the story. However, both Hugo and Gwen shared personal stories so quickly that it felt a bit false. Other than the slight fault at the beginning, I really enjoyed this story and am glad that Gwen got her happy ending.
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LibraryThing member keeneam
I liked this book, but it is not by favorite Balogh book. I was slow to warm up to the characters, but did enjoy them in the end, especially the brooding hero. I thought the plot was a bit slow, but it was a good set up for the rest of the survivor's club, if indeed this will be a series. It was
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worth the read and I was satisfied with the ending, Show Less
LibraryThing member Pebblesgmc
The Proposal by Mary Balogh
The beginning of a new Series the Survivor's Club. It introduces all the members of the Survivor's Club, but focuses on Hugo Emes, Major Lord Trentham. He is a war hero, but wounded in his soul. Most of the survivors are wound in body and/or soul. She is Gwendoline
I enjoyed the book and look forward to the release of the rest of the series.
The beginning of a new Series the Survivor's Club. It introduces all the members of the Survivor's Club, but focuses on Hugo Emes, Major Lord Trentham. He is a war hero, but wounded in his soul. Most of the survivors are wound in body and/or soul. She is Gwendoline
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Grayson, Lady Muir and has a nasty fall and is rescued by Hugo. I enjoyed the book and look forward to the release of the rest of the series.
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LibraryThing member The_Book_Queen
Mary Balogh has talent, being able to write a story that makes the reader sigh and dream of their own HEA. She writes with an eloquence that fits perfectly with the historical period in which the book is set. These are just a few reasons why Balogh's books always please the readers—and they apply
The heroine and hero of this story were flawed, imperfect—realistic, in a sense. They both have dark pasts that they are struggling to overcome. Their story is not a light, carefree romance, but it does have brief scenes where the banter and conversation help to lighten the slightly dark mood that follows both characters.
I liked Gwen, a strong heroine who is past the first bloom of youth. She's had a terrible time since her husband's death (suicide), as she blames herself. She's determined never to remarry, and after almost 10 years, she's learned to accept it. When it seems that fate has stepped in and thrown her into the path of the mysterious Lord Trentham, Gwen slowly begins to rethink her pledge. But can she overcome her past and reach for a new future?
Hugo is a tortured hero, one who has seen the brutalities of war and lived to tell the tale—even when many of his fellow soldiers did not. After returning to England injured (nor physically, but mentally), the country calls him a war hero—but he thinks himself a broken killer instead.
Originally from the upper working class, he doesn't want anything to do with the ton, but upon his return his finds himself a titled gentleman, a “gift” for his time at war. He doesn't fit in with the high society crowd, and he doesn't want to. But for his younger sister, he'll brave the ton so she can attend a few balls. To do so, he'll need the help of a woman—will Lady Gwen fit the role? More importantly, can he forget his past, as well as their difference in class, and offer up his heart to Gwen? Will she even accept....
Although there were a few parts during the book when I skimmed a couple of pages, overall this was a really good story, if lacking a bit in action. Towards the end, the sigh-worthy moments were more dominant, and I had a smile on my face from it. Always a sign of a good book! :)
4 STARS! A lovely historical romance, one filled with interesting characters who break the cookie-cutter mold just a bit. I look forward to the next book in this new series—like Hugo, the rest of the Survivors' Club members seem to have their own personal obstacles to overcome, and I think each of their stories will be quiet the adventure! A perfect book for any fan of the genre, The Proposal is sure to be a keeper on your shelf!
This review is property of The_Book_Queen (TBQ's Book Palace). You may also find this review on my blog, as well as BN, Amazon, and GR.
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to her newest novel, The Proposal, too. The heroine and hero of this story were flawed, imperfect—realistic, in a sense. They both have dark pasts that they are struggling to overcome. Their story is not a light, carefree romance, but it does have brief scenes where the banter and conversation help to lighten the slightly dark mood that follows both characters.
I liked Gwen, a strong heroine who is past the first bloom of youth. She's had a terrible time since her husband's death (suicide), as she blames herself. She's determined never to remarry, and after almost 10 years, she's learned to accept it. When it seems that fate has stepped in and thrown her into the path of the mysterious Lord Trentham, Gwen slowly begins to rethink her pledge. But can she overcome her past and reach for a new future?
Hugo is a tortured hero, one who has seen the brutalities of war and lived to tell the tale—even when many of his fellow soldiers did not. After returning to England injured (nor physically, but mentally), the country calls him a war hero—but he thinks himself a broken killer instead.
Originally from the upper working class, he doesn't want anything to do with the ton, but upon his return his finds himself a titled gentleman, a “gift” for his time at war. He doesn't fit in with the high society crowd, and he doesn't want to. But for his younger sister, he'll brave the ton so she can attend a few balls. To do so, he'll need the help of a woman—will Lady Gwen fit the role? More importantly, can he forget his past, as well as their difference in class, and offer up his heart to Gwen? Will she even accept....
Although there were a few parts during the book when I skimmed a couple of pages, overall this was a really good story, if lacking a bit in action. Towards the end, the sigh-worthy moments were more dominant, and I had a smile on my face from it. Always a sign of a good book! :)
4 STARS! A lovely historical romance, one filled with interesting characters who break the cookie-cutter mold just a bit. I look forward to the next book in this new series—like Hugo, the rest of the Survivors' Club members seem to have their own personal obstacles to overcome, and I think each of their stories will be quiet the adventure! A perfect book for any fan of the genre, The Proposal is sure to be a keeper on your shelf!
This review is property of The_Book_Queen (TBQ's Book Palace). You may also find this review on my blog, as well as BN, Amazon, and GR.
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LibraryThing member onyx95
Spending time at Penderris Hall would be enjoyable this year. After missing the previous year reunion because of the death of his father, Hugo Emes (Lord Trentham) looked forward to joining his fellow "survivor club members" at the Duke of Stanbrook's mansion on the beach. Venturing out to the
Book 1 ..... Such a large cast of characters and a great way to set up for a new series by Mary Balogh. The members of the "Survivors Club" all need to find someone and so I can easily see this series progression. While I liked Hugo and Gwen in general, something was keeping me from having an emotional connection with either of them. I like the nervous "man's man" when he starts to have and realize he has true feelings, but there was never any real intense connection for me. I have liked several of Mary Balogh's books in the past and really enjoyed them, I hope to see more of the "Survivor's Club". I was lucky enough to receive this early reviews addition and hope to read more of this series.
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beach for some time alone, time to think, turned out to be anything but lonely. Having been a widow for many years, Gwendoline Grayson (Lady Muir) had agreed to help a friend, Vera Parkinson, deal with her new widowhood. After an argument between the two ladies, Gwen feels unsettled and decides to take a stroll and clear her head. Promising not to go far because of her physical limitations, Gwen started walking the beach. Finding herself farther away than she had originally planned on going, she chose what she thought would be a shorter route back to Vera's house. Spraining her ankle suddenly became more of an issue than she would have ever thought when the mysterious Hugo stepped in to rescue and help her.Book 1 ..... Such a large cast of characters and a great way to set up for a new series by Mary Balogh. The members of the "Survivors Club" all need to find someone and so I can easily see this series progression. While I liked Hugo and Gwen in general, something was keeping me from having an emotional connection with either of them. I like the nervous "man's man" when he starts to have and realize he has true feelings, but there was never any real intense connection for me. I have liked several of Mary Balogh's books in the past and really enjoyed them, I hope to see more of the "Survivor's Club". I was lucky enough to receive this early reviews addition and hope to read more of this series.
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LibraryThing member AoifeT
This is an excellent start to a new series and once again Mary Balogh creates a case of wounded survivors. Gwen, Lady Muir is introduced in A Night to Remember, a prequel to he Bedwyn series. The Proposal is her story. Mary Balogh creates an engaging story blending philosophy, human emotions, and
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basic drive to survive. This is a book that not only engages the reader but also makes the reader contemplate life. I highly recommend this book. Show Less
LibraryThing member JudyCroome
A gentle, sweet romance with enough chemistry between Hugo & Gwen to keep the tension ticking along. I love complete books that are part of a series - and The Proposal is not only the first in a new series but also the love story of an old friend. We first met Gwen in One Night Of Love and I'm so
As always with Balogh's stories there are gentle philosophical comments on love and life seamlessly woven into her story, adding depth and strength.
Perhaps at times there was some repetition, but that's to be expected when the characters we meet in this book have peopled her stories for so long. The cameo appearance by the delicious Wulfric Bedwyn was great, and as A Summer to Remember ranks in my top 6 Balogh stories I was pleased at Lauren's role in The Proposal.
A slow soft read which exactly suited my reading mood today.
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glad she met Hugo, the gentle giant, whose scowling countenance hides a deep emotional intensity.As always with Balogh's stories there are gentle philosophical comments on love and life seamlessly woven into her story, adding depth and strength.
Perhaps at times there was some repetition, but that's to be expected when the characters we meet in this book have peopled her stories for so long. The cameo appearance by the delicious Wulfric Bedwyn was great, and as A Summer to Remember ranks in my top 6 Balogh stories I was pleased at Lauren's role in The Proposal.
A slow soft read which exactly suited my reading mood today.
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LibraryThing member flemmily
Mary Balogh can get a little wordy, and a little emo even. The Proposal starts out that way, with a lot of naval gazing and some obvious series exposition.
However, it ends up being very engaging indeed. The couple is likeable and real. Hugo is one of my favorite romance heroes- he's got the perfect
However, it ends up being very engaging indeed. The couple is likeable and real. Hugo is one of my favorite romance heroes- he's got the perfect
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balance of gruffness and sappyness. And there are quite a number of really beautifully heart stopping moments. Show Less
LibraryThing member phacht
Another winner for Mary Balough.
I have to say that it's not too a surprising a plot - a wealthy titled member of England's upper class literally discovers a damsel in distress. However, Mary Balough's excellent writing takes a tried and true formula to new heights.
Excellent writing, good plot
I have to say that it's not too a surprising a plot - a wealthy titled member of England's upper class literally discovers a damsel in distress. However, Mary Balough's excellent writing takes a tried and true formula to new heights.
Excellent writing, good plot
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development, humor. . . and a romance. What's not to like? Show Less
LibraryThing member librarydanielle
sweet but kind of slow moving.
LibraryThing member dlinglis
I really wanted to like this book but sadly felt bored reading it. NOTHING happened. I love historical romances, especially with a strong alpha male and a forbidden relationship. Gwen meets manly Hugo who gallantly carries her when she badly sprains her ankle which requires her to stay several days
As disappointed as I was with this book, I am looking forward to reading the next in the Survivors Club series (The Arrangement) as I found the Vincent character interesting and want to learn more about him. I just hope that book as a little more substance.
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at the home Hugo is staying for his annual gathering of the Survivors Club. The attraction between them is supposed to be so strong that they end up having sex on the beach a few days after meeting but as they are from two different social worlds a marriage could not work. As the reader, I never felt this unavoidable attraction between them. And then the whole book was basically them telling themselves and each other why they could not be together while stealing kisses and sex. Until inevitably they decided that the could scale the wall between their worlds and make it work.As disappointed as I was with this book, I am looking forward to reading the next in the Survivors Club series (The Arrangement) as I found the Vincent character interesting and want to learn more about him. I just hope that book as a little more substance.
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LibraryThing member Jessica5
Oh historical romances, how I've missed you! It's been too long since I've read a historical romance, so I was one happy girl when I cracked open this one and entered the prim and proper world of the lords and ladies of London.
Hugo is used to his quiet, middle class life. Even when he's given the
From the very beginning, you know Hugo and Gwen's relationship is going to be entertaining. As soon as they meet, Hugo is hard-headed and Gwen isn't going to let a man throw her around. As they butt heads, their banter is so fun and I love how they can let their true selves show with each other instead of always being proper and perfect.
Hugo and Gwen's relationship doesn't start off too well, so I loved watching their relationship grow and how they fall for each other as the story progresses. Two people as stubborn as Gwen and Hugo couldn't be more perfect for each other. Though this book lacked any extreme "wow" moments, it was still a sweet read. The addition of the side stories and romances of the other characters was cute and let us get to know everyone in the main characters' lives.
While this one wasn't the best historical romance I've read, it was a sweet, easy read that I still enjoyed. The way the characters interacted was fun and the historical London society was perfect. For an enjoyable historical romance, go ahead and pick up Mary Balogh's latest release. Now, all I can do is wait for the second book in the series to come out in August. I can't wait to read Vincent's story next!
Hugo is used to his quiet, middle class life. Even when he's given the
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title of a Lord and all the money that comes with it after leading a suicide mission during the war that helped his side win, Hugo can't stand that lavish lifestyle. However, with his new title comes a duty and he knows he must find a wife soon. And Gwendoline is the last person who wants that role. After her husband died, Gwen is perfectly content to live her widowed life in society with her friends and family. But when Hugo rescues her from a nasty fall, nurses her back to health, and shows up at her home to ask for her help with his sister, there's no denying this Lord is captivating. Is Gwen ready to settle down again, and could Hugo really have found the woman he's always wanted? From the very beginning, you know Hugo and Gwen's relationship is going to be entertaining. As soon as they meet, Hugo is hard-headed and Gwen isn't going to let a man throw her around. As they butt heads, their banter is so fun and I love how they can let their true selves show with each other instead of always being proper and perfect.
Hugo and Gwen's relationship doesn't start off too well, so I loved watching their relationship grow and how they fall for each other as the story progresses. Two people as stubborn as Gwen and Hugo couldn't be more perfect for each other. Though this book lacked any extreme "wow" moments, it was still a sweet read. The addition of the side stories and romances of the other characters was cute and let us get to know everyone in the main characters' lives.
While this one wasn't the best historical romance I've read, it was a sweet, easy read that I still enjoyed. The way the characters interacted was fun and the historical London society was perfect. For an enjoyable historical romance, go ahead and pick up Mary Balogh's latest release. Now, all I can do is wait for the second book in the series to come out in August. I can't wait to read Vincent's story next!
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LibraryThing member HeavenLeAngel
This book was enjoyable, but not spellbinding. I enjoyed the characters and their development, and the positive humor of the heroine. It is very 'smooth' to read. The only true problem is it was lacking a defined climax; some moment of suspense and wonder, or at least one moment for the readers
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doubt for the character's happy ending. Overall, I'd say it was okay. Show Less
LibraryThing member csyb
I won this book through the Early Reviewers program, but Mary Balogh has been on my autobuy list for some time. While I haven't liked her newer books as much as her early classic works such as Beyond the Sunrise, Truly, or Heartless, the Proposal marks a return to form for one of my favorite
Hugo, Lord Trentham, is in Cornwall for a reunion of the "Survivors' Club" - men, and one woman, whose lives were irrevocably changed by the Napoleonic Wars. Hugo recently inherited his title and is actually from the merchant class, not the nobility. He is determined to lead a simple life, but as Jane Austen made clear, a single man in possession of a fortune (and title) must be in want of wife. Hugo jokes that he will marry the next woman he sees - but the joke is on him when Gwendoline, Lady Muir, literally falls into his arms.
Gwen is a widow, and has a strong limp. She is in Cornwall to visit a friend who epitomizes the word "trying." When she falls, Hugo insists on taking her to the house where he is staying, and Gwen recuperates among the Survivors' Club.
And Gwen and Hugo are content to go their separate ways - except that Hugo's sister really, REALLY wants a season in London. And Hugo knows no one who can sponsor her, and fears she will rejected because she was born of the wrong class. Enter an engagement of convenience. Gwen will bring out his sister and lend her consequence to the family.
THEN they can go their separate lives.
But fate has other plans for them.
No one writes emotion better than Mary Balogh. Deep, heartfelt emotion. And while Balogh can write light-hearted novels, in my mind she really excels at taking the reader's heart and wringing it dry. Both Gwen and Hugo suffer from survivor's guilt. REAL guilt. They are scarred, and not in the "one night of passion and I'm cured" scarring that so often passes for characterization in romance novels. They have to work for their happy ending, and a very satisfying journey it is, too.
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Regency romance novelists.Hugo, Lord Trentham, is in Cornwall for a reunion of the "Survivors' Club" - men, and one woman, whose lives were irrevocably changed by the Napoleonic Wars. Hugo recently inherited his title and is actually from the merchant class, not the nobility. He is determined to lead a simple life, but as Jane Austen made clear, a single man in possession of a fortune (and title) must be in want of wife. Hugo jokes that he will marry the next woman he sees - but the joke is on him when Gwendoline, Lady Muir, literally falls into his arms.
Gwen is a widow, and has a strong limp. She is in Cornwall to visit a friend who epitomizes the word "trying." When she falls, Hugo insists on taking her to the house where he is staying, and Gwen recuperates among the Survivors' Club.
And Gwen and Hugo are content to go their separate ways - except that Hugo's sister really, REALLY wants a season in London. And Hugo knows no one who can sponsor her, and fears she will rejected because she was born of the wrong class. Enter an engagement of convenience. Gwen will bring out his sister and lend her consequence to the family.
THEN they can go their separate lives.
But fate has other plans for them.
No one writes emotion better than Mary Balogh. Deep, heartfelt emotion. And while Balogh can write light-hearted novels, in my mind she really excels at taking the reader's heart and wringing it dry. Both Gwen and Hugo suffer from survivor's guilt. REAL guilt. They are scarred, and not in the "one night of passion and I'm cured" scarring that so often passes for characterization in romance novels. They have to work for their happy ending, and a very satisfying journey it is, too.
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LibraryThing member booksandbutter
I really enjoyed this book. I have read many, if not all of her books. I felt this was a well written, well crafted novel. The characters were well developed and interesting. I will look forward to reading the next book in her Survivors Club series.
LibraryThing member missiek
Another hit for Balogh. She has introduced a new story telling style(at lease for me) and it is most successful. I really enjoyed this story about a young widow attracted to the worst kind of man for her. After many encounters and much soul searching both hero and heroine find out that they
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desperately need each other to complete their lives. Show Less
LibraryThing member 4leschats
This book seems like a typical genre romance on the surface, but does address the issues of culture and class more fully. Hugo, who gains his title through battle bravery, meets Gwen a lady by both birth and marriage. When Hugo rescues her when she sprains ankle, the two are immediately attracted
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to one another, but feel too separated by their backgrounds. The rest of the book deals with their struggles against their increasing attraction. The two quibbles that I have with the book are the sexual freedoms that seem a bit too modern, and some areas are repetitive with heavy handed didacticism of the class structure. However, these are minor flaws in an otherwise fun read. Show Less
LibraryThing member ginger30297
I will be honest and say I went into this book not expecting to like it much, but by the 4th chapter I couldn't put it down! Now, usually I like my romances mixed with a lot of mystery and suspense, but Ms. Balogh puts her books together really well. If I would have been reading the passage on the
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back of the book at a store, I would not have purchased this book (reason for 3 instead of 4 stars). Since I won this book I was actually able to read it and enjoyed it thoroughly! I am looking forward to the rest of the books in this series, cannot wait to read their stories. Hugo and Gwen are opposites but they fit each other perfectly! Show Less
LibraryThing member Read2Me2010
I have read all of the other books in the Bedwyn's series and enjoyed them very much. The Proposal, which is the first in the Survivor's Club series and is as well another Bedwyn prequel was very hard to read. I loved the lead characters, how they interacted with each other and with each others'
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circles, but too often felt as though author Balogh relied on psychological discussion that, while fitting today, seems altogether too modern for the early 1800s. Show Less
LibraryThing member winterlillies
It’s been a little over thirteen years since we last saw Gwendoline, Lady Muir in a book. She first makes an appearance in One Night for Love as the Earl of Kilbourne's widowed sister who offers support to her cousin Lauren when she’s left at the altar. The Gwen we see in The Proposal is
Hugo Emes, Lord Trentham, wasn’t born an English gentleman. He was awarded his title after showing bravery by leading his men in a forlorn hope, but he doesn’t consider himself a hero. He’s a son of a successful merchant and promises his father on his deathbed to marry and produce a son, but he weighs the decision of marrying above his station or picking a woman who understands hard work. Gwendoline, Lady Muir, is contempt with her life, but can’t shake off the feeling of loneliness she’s been experiencing. An accident brings Hugo to Gwen’s life and both fight the attraction they are feeling, but for different reasons. Gwen is devoted to her husband’s memory and Hugo cannot foresee marriage to a lady of quality. Will they put aside their differences and give love a chance or will they go their separate ways?
I have mixed feelings regarding The Proposal. One the one hand, it’s a classic Balogh book especially in terms of writing and plot, alas a bit slow at times. Balogh is one of the few authors whose specialty in the Regency period clearly shows. On the other hand, The Proposal is missing the special courtship phase most of her characters experience. As a couple Hugo and Gwen don’t spend that much time together and when they do, Hugo is moody and dour. He spends a lot of time in her company saying, “that’s daft” and yet, despite not wanting to be among aristocrats, he goes out of his way to launch his sister in society. He’s a man who likes to get his hands dirty and helps his neighbors do chores. I just can’t imagine Gwen as his partner. She’s very much a lady and while she can help Hugo by telling him where to plant shrubs and how to enhance his estate, I doubt we’ll be seeing her getting her hands dirty. I felt we were missing a scene, one that shows her as his equal among the estate. Don’t get me wrong, she’s his equal in terms of being damaged herself. Hugo suffers from the violence of war despite not showing any war injuries and Gwen is still dealing with the accident that caused her miscarriage and the death of her husband. Together, they do heal each other and it’s Hugo that helps Gwen move on. Perhaps in the end, this is how she’s his equal because they both have experienced pain.
Balogh tends to mix a bit of mystery in her novels and The Proposal is no exception. This time there are allusions to Hugo’s cowardice on the field by the current Lord Muir, who happens to have been present during the accident Gwen suffered shortly before her husband’s death. He’s a bit shady and when all comes to light regarding the death of her husband, I’m not satisfied at how quickly it was wrapped up. It felt at times as if Balogh wasn’t sure which way she wanted her novel to proceed. There was also, in my opinion, some unfinished business with her friend, Vera Parkinson. Hugo points out that Vera is only her friend because of Gwen’s connection in society and I wish Balogh had explored that a little more.
Beloved characters make an appearance. In addition to Neville and Lilly, Lauren makes an appearance as well as the rest of Gwen’s family. I was excited when Wulfric Bedwyn, the Duke of Bewcastle appears because he’s my favorite of Balogh’s heroes and he was a highlight for me! If you’ve never read the Bedwyn Prequels don’t fret because it’s not necessary to do so in order to read The Proposal; however, if you’ve read them before, you’ll be left with the feeling of wanting to do a reread.
My favorite quotes:
“There is no such place as the promised land, but it would be foolish to reject even an unpromised land as worthless without first inspecting it thoroughly.”
“Stanbrook once told me,” he said, “that suicide is the worst kind of selfishness, as it is often a plea to specific people who are left stranded in the land of the living, unable for all eternity to answer the plea.”
I enjoyed Mary Balogh’s The Proposal. If you’re looking for a good historical romance and one that lets you immerse yourself in the Regency period, I highly recommend The Proposal. Just be aware, this won’t be a quick read and I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
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different from the Gwen we meet in One Night for Love. Gone is the haughty girl who looks down on the lower class. I found it a bit hard to believe she would change her ways because I still see her as the Gwen from One Night for Love, but I remind myself it’s been thirteen years and people do change.Hugo Emes, Lord Trentham, wasn’t born an English gentleman. He was awarded his title after showing bravery by leading his men in a forlorn hope, but he doesn’t consider himself a hero. He’s a son of a successful merchant and promises his father on his deathbed to marry and produce a son, but he weighs the decision of marrying above his station or picking a woman who understands hard work. Gwendoline, Lady Muir, is contempt with her life, but can’t shake off the feeling of loneliness she’s been experiencing. An accident brings Hugo to Gwen’s life and both fight the attraction they are feeling, but for different reasons. Gwen is devoted to her husband’s memory and Hugo cannot foresee marriage to a lady of quality. Will they put aside their differences and give love a chance or will they go their separate ways?
I have mixed feelings regarding The Proposal. One the one hand, it’s a classic Balogh book especially in terms of writing and plot, alas a bit slow at times. Balogh is one of the few authors whose specialty in the Regency period clearly shows. On the other hand, The Proposal is missing the special courtship phase most of her characters experience. As a couple Hugo and Gwen don’t spend that much time together and when they do, Hugo is moody and dour. He spends a lot of time in her company saying, “that’s daft” and yet, despite not wanting to be among aristocrats, he goes out of his way to launch his sister in society. He’s a man who likes to get his hands dirty and helps his neighbors do chores. I just can’t imagine Gwen as his partner. She’s very much a lady and while she can help Hugo by telling him where to plant shrubs and how to enhance his estate, I doubt we’ll be seeing her getting her hands dirty. I felt we were missing a scene, one that shows her as his equal among the estate. Don’t get me wrong, she’s his equal in terms of being damaged herself. Hugo suffers from the violence of war despite not showing any war injuries and Gwen is still dealing with the accident that caused her miscarriage and the death of her husband. Together, they do heal each other and it’s Hugo that helps Gwen move on. Perhaps in the end, this is how she’s his equal because they both have experienced pain.
Balogh tends to mix a bit of mystery in her novels and The Proposal is no exception. This time there are allusions to Hugo’s cowardice on the field by the current Lord Muir, who happens to have been present during the accident Gwen suffered shortly before her husband’s death. He’s a bit shady and when all comes to light regarding the death of her husband, I’m not satisfied at how quickly it was wrapped up. It felt at times as if Balogh wasn’t sure which way she wanted her novel to proceed. There was also, in my opinion, some unfinished business with her friend, Vera Parkinson. Hugo points out that Vera is only her friend because of Gwen’s connection in society and I wish Balogh had explored that a little more.
Beloved characters make an appearance. In addition to Neville and Lilly, Lauren makes an appearance as well as the rest of Gwen’s family. I was excited when Wulfric Bedwyn, the Duke of Bewcastle appears because he’s my favorite of Balogh’s heroes and he was a highlight for me! If you’ve never read the Bedwyn Prequels don’t fret because it’s not necessary to do so in order to read The Proposal; however, if you’ve read them before, you’ll be left with the feeling of wanting to do a reread.
My favorite quotes:
“There is no such place as the promised land, but it would be foolish to reject even an unpromised land as worthless without first inspecting it thoroughly.”
“Stanbrook once told me,” he said, “that suicide is the worst kind of selfishness, as it is often a plea to specific people who are left stranded in the land of the living, unable for all eternity to answer the plea.”
I enjoyed Mary Balogh’s The Proposal. If you’re looking for a good historical romance and one that lets you immerse yourself in the Regency period, I highly recommend The Proposal. Just be aware, this won’t be a quick read and I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
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LibraryThing member Dotland101
This is the first of Mary Balogh's books I've ever read, and I like it. Although this novel has a few novels in other series connected to it of which the main heroine (Gwendoline) appeared in as minor character, but it doesn't make this novel pale in the least. This is Gwen's own story.
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Interestingly, the main characters in this story, both the hero and heroine are less than perfect from the norm of the usual of which we often read in other historical romance books. Each has flaw, scars, imperfection, and from a different world. In fact, each even despises, wary and uncomfortable with the other's when first met, we couldn't find two people more different. Balogh found a way to bring the two persons who are so different in just about every way together, overcome their imperfections and differences with love and understanding. It is an unlikely love story with lessons in life that Balogh cleverly laced in through out the story. It is a balmy good love story I would recommend to historical romance fans. One might get a few lessons out of this story if nothing else. As for me, for my own curiosity, I will have to find the "other" novels that Gwen was in and read them. But readers do not need to read those books prior to this novel which is the first in its own new series. It's a stand alone novel, with enough romance to satisfy fans and an easy reading. Show Less
LibraryThing member cyderry
What I loved about this story was the fact that the hero (shy yet strong and family-oriented) puts aside his own feelings and decides that he needs to marry to advance his sister's prospects. With the help of friends he meets and begins to court a widow who has a physical handicap. The love story
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that evolves shows that what's on the inside is far more important than what's on the the outside. Show Less
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2012-05-01
Physical description
384 p.; 4.2 inches
ISBN
0440245303 / 9780440245308
Other editions
The Proposal by Mary Balogh (Stand-alone audiobook player)