Search - The Proposition

Charming historical romance of a linguist taking on a bet that she can make a poor Englishman appear distinguished and rich just by changing his speech. This book really kept my interest because the plot and, mostly the characters, were so engaging.

Pygmalion in reverse. Steamy romance that can't work as he is from the lowest class in England, and she is from one of the highest of the ton. But, after the first few days, everything Mick learns seems to come naturally, and after three weeks, Edwina can only see the gentleman he has become.

I really liked this book. It is my first Judith Ivory book and it certainly won't be my last. I liked the fact that the hero and heroine were complex people with some major flaws, but they were still very likable and even lovable. I also like Ivory's writing style. It is intelligent and insightful. I'm sure some people may find her a bit wordy, but I like that she really fleshes out her characters and situations.

A beautifully nuanced story of two imperfect people who find life and love in each other. Brilliantly written by Judith Ivory who is fast becoming my new favorite author after Lisa Kleypas. The Proposition is filled with wonderful details of character and personality that make the people come alive. Their love story is sweet and believable and full of complexities.

Instead of the typical lie or misunderstanding that is the backbone of tension in most romance novels, Ivory gives these characters a situation that seems insurmountable. Or perhaps surmountable but only at great cost to either or both hero and heroine. She breathes such life into them and such humanity you feel like they are people you could know, people you would like to know.

Edwina "Winnie" and Mick are realistically drawn and likeable characters who have "real" problems, emotions, and interesting physical traits. There is such a sweetness to this story it really sticks with you.

The ending was very satisfying and wondering about the resolution to their situation left you guessing right to the end. Ivory didn't give away clues to the ending too early because it could have been eye rolling. Instead she keeps you worrying that they will never find a way.

There is a trust that you develop with authors, one that lets you know that despite all the hurdles and difficulties in a book, the lovers will find their way to a happily ever after. All romances give you a HEA, but not all of them really satisfy. We want a happily ever after that leaves you satisfied yet wanting more, leaves you smiling, leaves you feeling like you've eaten chocolate truffle mousse with raspberry coulis at the end of an amazing dinner. Ivory succeeds.

4.5 stars

I love the way the characters in this story grow and develop and the romance is very exciting.