One-line Summary:

“The Proposal” is a heartwarming and humorous contemporary romance novel that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and the power of second chances.

A Surprising Proposal

“The Proposal” by Jasmine Guillory begins with a surprising and unexpected proposal. Nikole Paterson, a freelance writer, finds herself in an embarrassing situation when her boyfriend of only five months, Fisher, proposes to her on the jumbotron at a Dodgers game. Shocked and overwhelmed, Nikole turns him down in front of the entire stadium, leading to an awkward and public breakup. This event sets the stage for a story filled with self-discovery, unexpected romance, and personal growth.

A Fake Engagement

In the aftermath of the proposal debacle, Nikole finds solace in the company of Carlos Ibarra, a handsome and charming doctor who witnessed her rejection at the game. As they strike up a friendship, Carlos proposes a solution to help Nikole escape the pitying glances and intrusive questions from friends and family: a fake engagement. Nikole agrees, and together they embark on a journey of pretending to be a couple. However, as they spend more time together, their fake engagement starts to feel surprisingly real, and they must confront their own fears and insecurities about love and commitment.

Love, Friendship, and Self-Discovery

As Nikole and Carlos navigate their fake engagement, they also grapple with their own personal challenges. Nikole, a strong and independent woman, has always put her career first, but now she must confront her fear of vulnerability and opening herself up to love. Carlos, on the other hand, has been burned by past relationships and is hesitant to trust again. Together, they learn to let go of their past baggage and embrace the possibility of a future together.

Throughout the novel, Guillory explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of communication in relationships. Nikole’s close-knit group of friends, including her best friend Dana and her roommate Courtney, provide a support system that is both hilarious and heartwarming. They offer advice, encouragement, and plenty of laughs, reminding readers of the power of friendship in navigating life’s ups and downs.

Key Takeaways:

• Love can be found in unexpected places and at unexpected times.
• Opening oneself up to vulnerability is necessary for personal growth and meaningful connections.
• Friendship is a powerful force that can provide support, laughter, and guidance in times of need.
• Effective communication is vital in any relationship to build trust and understanding.
• Embracing second chances can lead to unexpected happiness and fulfillment.

“Love is messy. It’s not something that fits in a box. It’s not something that can be neatly planned or controlled. Love is unpredictable, and that’s what makes it beautiful.” – Jasmine Guillory, The Proposal

In “The Proposal,” Jasmine Guillory delivers a delightful and heartwarming story that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and the power of second chances. Through the journey of Nikole and Carlos, readers are reminded of the importance of vulnerability, communication, and the unexpected joys that can come from embracing love. With a cast of relatable and lovable characters, Guillory creates a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary romance or simply looking for a feel-good read, “The Proposal” is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a renewed belief in the power of love.