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The Proposition

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'The Proposition' by Judith Ivory is a romantic gender flip on Pygmalion, where a phonetics elocution and etiquette expert is employed to teach a Cockney rat catcher, Mick, how to be a gentleman. The story revolves around the transformation of Mick into a refined man, with the help of the expert, Edwina, as they navigate a wager, con men, and societal expectations. The plot unfolds with humor, sizzling romance, and a fairy tale-like setting, although the ending has been criticized for feeling rushed and contrived.

The relationship between Mick and Edwina is portrayed as charming and delightful, with Mick being praised as a sweet, good-looking, and lovable hero. explores themes of class divide, self-discovery, and unconventional romance, with Mick's character standing out as a refreshing change from traditional alpha males found in romance novels. Despite some criticisms regarding the plot's ending and the writing style of the sex scenes, 'The Proposition' is commended for its unique characters, engaging plot, and the author's ability to craft unusual and memorable protagonists.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with the hero being a charming rat catcher and the heroine being a tall, insecure linguist, both navigating class differences and personal transformation.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by engaging prose, vivid descriptions, and a mix of humor and emotional depth, although some may find sex scenes less compelling.

Plot/Storyline:

The story is a gender-flipped retelling of Pygmalion that follows a phonetics expert who tries to transform a rat catcher into a gentleman, ultimately featuring a convoluted conclusion surrounding class issues.

Setting:

The setting is historical England, effectively showcasing the upper class and the pronounced class disparities central to the story.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally slow with emphasis on character growth, but some sections may feel overly drawn out, leading to a rushed ending.
The most highborn lady Mick had ever been with—the wife of a sitting member of the House of Lords, as it turned out—told him that the French had a name for what she felt for him, a name that put words...

Notes:

The Proposition is a romantic retelling of the Pygmalion story, featuring a gender reversal.
The hero, Mick, is a Cockney rat catcher, while the heroine, Edwina, is an elocution expert.
Mick and Edwina’s relationship develops primarily through elocution lessons and romance.
The book highlights class differences, with the hero being lower class and the heroine upper class.
Mick has a fascination with women's legs, which adds to his character depth.
The story features a somewhat contrived ending, described by some reviewers as deus ex machina.
The heroine is described as unconventional looking, which is a departure from typical romantic tropes.
The book includes themes of self-acceptance and overcoming insecurities, especially for the female lead.
The banter and dynamic between the characters is praised, offering humor and warmth.
The settings include a societal ball, where class distinctions are highlighted and challenged.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for The Proposition include potential classism, unrealistic expectations from relationships, and mentions of personal insecurities, which may resonate differently with readers.

Has Romance?

Romantic themes are prevalent throughout The Proposition, as the relationship between the characters develops intimately and significantly.

From The Publisher:

No man, gentleman or otherwise, has ever looked at Lady Edwina Bollash the way the brash, handsome man standing before her is doing now. Edwina has accepted the challenge to transform incorrigible Mick Tremore into a gentleman in just six weeks. And although the linguist is sure she can rise to the task, she isn't at all certain she won't swoon under his frankly sensuous gaze before her job is done.

Mick has lived outside of London society long enough to know that appearances can be deceiving. Edwina might look all buttoned up-the perfect English lady-but there is unleashed passion existing just below her placid facade (not to mention a great pair of legs!). And as she prepares him to take his place in society, Mick prepares Edwina to take her place in his heart...and in his bed.

Ratings (3)

Loved It (1)
Liked It (2)

Reader Stats (11):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (7)
Not Interested (1)
 
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