When “No” Means a New Beginning: The Proposal Jasmine Guillory is a refreshingly honest Rom-Com
Picture this: a public proposal gone wrong, a stadium full of onlookers, and an unexpected hero swooping in to save the day. This is the captivating premise of Jasmine Guillory’s The Proposal, a novel that takes the classic romantic comedy trope and flips it on its head. If you’re ready for a story that celebrates saying “no,” embraces unexpected connections, and proves that love can be found even after the most awkward of moments, then this book might just be your new favorite.
Table of Contents [CLICK HERE TO OPEN]
The Proposal – Book 2 In The Wedding Date Series
When someone asks you to spend your life with him, it shouldn’t come as a surprise—or happen in front of 45,000 people.
When freelance writer Nikole Paterson goes to a Dodgers game with her actor boyfriend, his man bun, and his bros, the last thing she expects is a scoreboard proposal. Saying no isn’t the hard part—they’ve only been dating for five months, and he can’t even spell her name correctly. The hard part is having to face a stadium full of disappointed fans…
At the game with his sister, Carlos Ibarra comes to Nik’s rescue and rushes her away from a camera crew. He’s even there for her when the video goes viral and Nik’s social media blows up—in a bad way. Nik knows that in the wilds of LA, a handsome doctor like Carlos can’t be looking for anything serious, so she embarks on an epic rebound with him, filled with food, fun, and fantastic sex. But when their glorified hookups start breaking the rules, one of them has to be smart enough to put on the brakes…
Brief Plot Overview (No Spoliers!)
Nikole Paterson, a freelance writer, is blindsided when her boyfriend of five months proposes to her on the jumbotron at a Dodgers game. In front of thousands of spectators, she says no, triggering a viral social media frenzy and an uncomfortable encounter with her now-ex.
Enter Carlos Ibarra, a handsome stranger who, along with his sister, helps Nik escape the media chaos. A connection sparks between Nik and Carlos, but navigating a budding romance in the aftermath of a very public rejection proves to be a challenge.
As Nik deals with the fallout from the proposal and the unexpected attention it brings, she and Carlos explore the potential of their connection, all while learning important lessons about love, self-worth, and the power of saying no.
The Scoop
Ready for the inside scoop? Here’s a glimpse into the heart of The Proposal:
- Empowering “No”: The Proposal celebrates the power of saying no and standing up for yourself, even when it’s in front of a massive audience.
- Unexpected Connections: Guillory masterfully explores how chance encounters can lead to meaningful relationships.
- Healing and Growth: Nik’s journey of healing from the public humiliation and finding self-worth is both inspiring and relatable.
- Family and Friendship: The strong bonds between Nik, Carlos, and their families add depth and warmth to the story.
- Social Commentary: The novel subtly touches upon issues of social media, public image, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.
- Feel-Good Romance: Despite its heavier themes, The Proposal is ultimately a lighthearted and hopeful romance that will leave you smiling.
Our Review
A Charming and Thoughtful Rom-Com
The Proposal is a refreshingly modern and empowering romance that tackles important themes with grace and humor. Guillory’s writing is as sharp and witty as ever, making the pages fly by. The story is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, leaving you with plenty to ponder even after you’ve reached the final page.
One of the most refreshing aspects of The Proposal is its focus on Nikole’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment. She is a relatable and engaging character who learns to embrace her own worth and stand up for what she wants. Her relationship with Carlos develops organically, rooted in mutual respect and understanding, making it all the more satisfying to witness their love blossom.
The book also shines in its depiction of family and friendship, highlighting the importance of supportive relationships in navigating life’s challenges. Guillory’s signature humor is on full display, with witty banter and laugh-out-loud moments that make The Proposal an absolute joy to read.
While the plot may feel predictable at times, the characters and their emotional journeys more than compensate for it. The Proposal is a feel-good romance that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak, embarrassment, or the pressure to conform. It’s a reminder that love can be found in the most unexpected places, and that sometimes the best kind of proposal is the one you make to yourself.
To Summarise
A Proposal Worth Accepting
What Works:
- Strong Female Lead: Nikole is a refreshingly complex and relatable character who learns to embrace her own worth and find love on her own terms.
- Thoughtful Themes: The novel tackles important issues like consent, self-worth, and societal expectations with sensitivity and humor.
- Engaging Romance: Nik and Carlos’s chemistry is undeniable, and their relationship develops in a realistic and satisfying way.
- Witty Dialogue: Guillory’s trademark humor shines through, making the book a delightful and entertaining read.
Room for Improvement:
- Predictability: Some readers may find the plot somewhat formulaic, as it follows some familiar romantic comedy tropes.
- Pacing: The middle section of the book could benefit from a slightly faster pace to keep the momentum going.
Overall Impression:
The Proposal is a charming and thought-provoking romantic comedy that celebrates female empowerment and the power of saying no. With its engaging characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt message, it’s a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a feel-good story with substance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proposal by Jasmine Guillory about?
The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory follows Nikole Paterson, who unexpectedly finds herself at the center of a public proposal gone wrong at a baseball game. After turning down her boyfriend’s very public and unplanned proposal, she is rescued by Carlos Ibarra and his sister, who help her escape the media frenzy. As Nikole and Carlos start spending more time together, a casual rebound turns into something deeper, exploring themes of love, friendship, and second chances.
Is the proposal spicy?
Yes, The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory is considered spicy. The novel includes several steamy romance scenes between the main characters, Nikole and Carlos, adding a layer of sensuality to the storyline.
Should I read the wedding date before the proposal?
While you don’t have to read The Wedding Date before The Proposal,”doing so can enhance your reading experience. The Proposal features Carlos Ibarra, a character introduced in The Wedding Date, and reading the first book will give you more background on his character. However, each book can be enjoyed as a standalone story.
Which Jasmine Guillory book should I read first?
It’s best to start with The Wedding Date, as it introduces key characters and sets the stage for the series. After that, you can read The Proposal or any of the other books, as each one can stand alone.
If you’re looking for a rom-com that will make you laugh, think, and swoon, The Proposal Jasmine Guillory is the perfect choice. So, grab a copy, settle in, and prepare to be charmed by this heartwarming and empowering story.
