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The Proposal

Book 1 in the series:The Survivors' Club

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The Proposal by Mary Balogh is the first book in the Survivor's Club series, focusing on the romance between Gwendoline, Lady Muir, and Hugo, Lord Trentham. The story delves into the psychological struggles and healing journey of the lead characters, who are both survivors of past traumas. Balogh's writing style intertwines philosophy, human emotions, and the drive to survive, creating an engaging narrative set in the early 1800s.

The plot unfolds slowly, revealing the deep emotional wounds and dark secrets of Gwendoline and Hugo as they navigate misconceptions and misunderstandings while grappling with their growing attraction. The book explores themes of resilience, companionship, and the complexities of relationships against the backdrop of a historical romance, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.

Characters:

The characters are realistically flawed, with deep emotional scars, navigating a romance built on mutual growth and healing.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is detailed and reflective, presenting characters' emotions and historical context, but can be slow in progression.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows a widow and a war hero as they deal with class differences and the scars of their past, developing an unexpected bond.

Setting:

The setting is a detailed depiction of Regency England, focusing on class distinctions and the aftermath of war.

Pacing:

Pacing varies, starting slowly but eventually engaging as character arcs and emotional connections unfold.
Gwendoline Grayson, Lady Muir, hunched her shoulders and drew her cloak more snugly about her. It was a brisk, blustery March day, made chillier by the fact that she was standing down at the fishing h...

Notes:

The Proposal is the first book in the Survivors' Club series by Mary Balogh.
Gwendoline Lady Muir is a widow who has faced significant tragedy and struggles with loneliness.
Hugo Emes, Lord Trentham, used to be a merchant's son and became a war hero, which created class conflict in his relationship with Gwen.
The two main characters have both suffered psychological trauma related to their past lives, Gwen from her husband's death and Hugo from the war.
The story involves themes of survivor's guilt, personal growth, and social class differences.
Gwen and Hugo are attracted to each other but initially resist their feelings due to their different social backgrounds and personal issues.
The book features a slow-burn romance which focuses on mature characters in their early thirties.
The narrative emphasizes character development through their emotional struggles and healing rather than relying on typical romance tropes.
Balogh's writing style combines humor and deeper philosophical commentary on love and human connection.
Familiar characters from Balogh's other series, such as the Bedwyns, make appearances, creating a rich backdrop for the story.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

'The Proposal' contains triggers such as discussions of grief, trauma, and emotional struggles related to war and personal loss.

Has Romance?

Yes, there is a high level of romance in The Proposal, as the narrative revolves around the budding relationship between the two main characters.

From The Publisher:

"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 Mary Balogh's The Arrangement

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Reader Stats (16):

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Want To Read (6)
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About the Author:

Mary Balogh grew up in Wales and now lives with her husband, Robert, in Saskatchewan, Canada. She has written more than one hundred historical novels and novellas, more than forty of which have been New York Times bestsellers. They include…

 
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