What do you think?
Rate this book
A Bluebird Sky #1
A Better Proposal
Jill Northrop has an impressive career, a fervent desire for control, and a desperate need to get as far away from her old life as possible. Now what she needs is a plan. So, when her firm offers her a year-long contract on the other side of the country, she pounces on the opportunity for a fresh start. Perfect.
Until she meets her first big client.
Alex Campbell shows up in her office: the glowering, impossible teacher’s assistant who made her first year of university miserable. He’s perpetually disorganized, chronically late, and ready to do just about anything to get his tech to market. That anything includes letting his partner talk him into hiring Jill to write the funding proposal for their start up.
But now eight years later, Alex isn’t the same moody jerk she remembers, and Jill finds herself having unnerving thoughts about her smart, good-looking client.
A disaster of an office, a brand-new file, and a jumble of conflicting feelings. With everything going wrong, can she make sure her carefully laid plans go right?
Until she meets her first big client.
Alex Campbell shows up in her office: the glowering, impossible teacher’s assistant who made her first year of university miserable. He’s perpetually disorganized, chronically late, and ready to do just about anything to get his tech to market. That anything includes letting his partner talk him into hiring Jill to write the funding proposal for their start up.
But now eight years later, Alex isn’t the same moody jerk she remembers, and Jill finds herself having unnerving thoughts about her smart, good-looking client.
A disaster of an office, a brand-new file, and a jumble of conflicting feelings. With everything going wrong, can she make sure her carefully laid plans go right?
376 pages, Paperback
Published January 8, 2024
6 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
May 10, 2025
This was a good story. As the synopsis states, FMC Jill Northrop moves across Canada from Toronto to Calgary to escape bad relationships - one with her ex-boyfriend and the other being her mother. It was a novel that could have been told in fewer pages, but that's because the author reiterated several times Jill's feelings regarding her own self esteem.
The MMC is Alex Campbell, or rather Dr. Campbell. A bio-chemist Jill first met when she was an undergrad and he was a first year graduate assistant at university as described in the prologue. They meet again eight years later when he and his partner (Nick Martin), finally decide to bring in a professional business firm to help them obtain grant funding from the government. They hired the company Jill works for and she is assigned to their case.
Throughout the first half of the book, Jill keeps her guard up around Alex because of her past history with him from college. He however, develops a crush on Jill and eventually explains the circumstances on why he was such a horrible TA at University and apologizes to her. (She actually hoped he didn't remember having her as a student.)
"Everyone was upset in that class," he admitted. "I was going through a lot of personal stuff. Trying to get into my PhD program and had taken on responsibility for two hundred first years. The professor was consumed with a research project, and I said she could be hands-off and trust me with the class. And I was wrong. I was completely overwhelmed." He looked at her again. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry that I was a shitty TA and you had to deal with the fallout from a couple of shitty months in my life."
If anyone has been in a relationship with a person who always blames their (in this case girlfriend) companion for their own shortcomings, then the reader will definitely understand why Jill escaped her family and ex-boyfriend and is reluctant to accept any calls from her mother. Just once, I would have loved for Jill to tell her mother, "Maybe instead of letting me know what a disappointment I am to you, think about how much you were a failure as a mother to me. Never standing up for me. Never thinking about what I want from life instead of what you wanted me to do with my life." Jill eventually asserts herself toward the end of the story, but it's to her father and not her mother.
Overall, the story is predictable, but it still draws out emotions from readers who have been there, done that in personal relationships. Loved the business/romance direction the author took. However, the third act break up was due to a very bad move on Jill's part. Throughout the book, Jill is lauded for her hard work and great attention to detail. But... when she discovers something fishy towards the end, where did all of her business auditing acumen go? Out the window? What she did was disappointing. The author clearly uses Jill's past bad relationships as the reason for her jumping to conclusions about Alex's role in the fishiness instead of thinking things through and possibly being a mature adult and talking to Alex first?
🪁 - 3.5 stars out of 5
🪁 - 30/100
🪁 - Square #72 - Book with a purple cover.
The MMC is Alex Campbell, or rather Dr. Campbell. A bio-chemist Jill first met when she was an undergrad and he was a first year graduate assistant at university as described in the prologue. They meet again eight years later when he and his partner (Nick Martin), finally decide to bring in a professional business firm to help them obtain grant funding from the government. They hired the company Jill works for and she is assigned to their case.
Throughout the first half of the book, Jill keeps her guard up around Alex because of her past history with him from college. He however, develops a crush on Jill and eventually explains the circumstances on why he was such a horrible TA at University and apologizes to her. (She actually hoped he didn't remember having her as a student.)
"Everyone was upset in that class," he admitted. "I was going through a lot of personal stuff. Trying to get into my PhD program and had taken on responsibility for two hundred first years. The professor was consumed with a research project, and I said she could be hands-off and trust me with the class. And I was wrong. I was completely overwhelmed." He looked at her again. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry that I was a shitty TA and you had to deal with the fallout from a couple of shitty months in my life."
If anyone has been in a relationship with a person who always blames their (in this case girlfriend) companion for their own shortcomings, then the reader will definitely understand why Jill escaped her family and ex-boyfriend and is reluctant to accept any calls from her mother. Just once, I would have loved for Jill to tell her mother, "Maybe instead of letting me know what a disappointment I am to you, think about how much you were a failure as a mother to me. Never standing up for me. Never thinking about what I want from life instead of what you wanted me to do with my life." Jill eventually asserts herself toward the end of the story, but it's to her father and not her mother.
Overall, the story is predictable, but it still draws out emotions from readers who have been there, done that in personal relationships. Loved the business/romance direction the author took. However, the third act break up was due to a very bad move on Jill's part. Throughout the book, Jill is lauded for her hard work and great attention to detail. But... when she discovers something fishy towards the end, where did all of her business auditing acumen go? Out the window? What she did was disappointing. The author clearly uses Jill's past bad relationships as the reason for her jumping to conclusions about Alex's role in the fishiness instead of thinking things through and possibly being a mature adult and talking to Alex first?
🪁 - 3.5 stars out of 5
🪁 - 30/100
🪁 - Square #72 - Book with a purple cover.
December 6, 2024
I got a lot of problem reading this book. I had to leave it for a while and came back. I had only 4 chapters left but it got too heavy. Not the plot, the plot was fine. But everything in it was so slow. The characters had little to no development, the friendships and relationships were also extremely slow and a bit boring honestly. Alex was such a patient guy with Jill, giving all her problems with self destroing and lack of confidence. I didn't feel a big connection to Jill as an FMC, and I didn't even feel much connection between Jill and Alex themselves.
Still, I want to thank Sunny Babe PR for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.
Still, I want to thank Sunny Babe PR for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.
November 25, 2024
A Better Proposal/A Better Engagement ARC Review
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of A Better Proposal/A Better Engagement by Ellory Douglas from SunnyBabePR, thank you so much!! 💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
“it’s such a small thing to do. if someone i loved asked me to do some small thing to make them happy, i would do it without hesitation.”
first things first, i actually read book two (a lucky shot) in this series first as an arc and absolutely fell in love with ellory’s writing! so i’m extremely happy that i was able to read a better proposal as part of receiving an ARC of a better engagement!! for a better proposal being ellory’s debut novel, she did such an amazing job!! and, i think a better engagement, really added the finishing touches to such an amazing story about two amazing people deserving of happiness!
a better proposal was such a great story! i absolutely fell in love with jill. she is such a strong character and the story surrounding jill’s anxiety and previous trauma was so well written and authentic! her independence, strong morals, and just the fact that she worked on mending her past while forging ahead made it so easy to fall in love with jill. and alex is the most patient, kindest, and supportive person to have in your corner. he was a safe space for jill! he really gave jill the time she needed to be fully part of the relationship, as she was learning to trust and love all over again. overall, their relationship felt organic and honest.
a better engagement was honestly the perfect wrap up for jill and alex. it felt like you got the perfect timeline of what was happening later on in their relationship. i also feel like there was a lot of closure in this story and everything really came full circle. it was also just really nice to get perspective on their relationship through alex’s eyes. i loved how the story was broken up into four parts, each focusing on a different time during their relationship.
overall this was such a cute and fun read! i can’t wait to read ellory’s future work and i cannot wait for nick’s book! once again thank you so much to sunnybabepr and ellory douglas for providing me with this arc 💜
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of A Better Proposal/A Better Engagement by Ellory Douglas from SunnyBabePR, thank you so much!! 💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
“it’s such a small thing to do. if someone i loved asked me to do some small thing to make them happy, i would do it without hesitation.”
first things first, i actually read book two (a lucky shot) in this series first as an arc and absolutely fell in love with ellory’s writing! so i’m extremely happy that i was able to read a better proposal as part of receiving an ARC of a better engagement!! for a better proposal being ellory’s debut novel, she did such an amazing job!! and, i think a better engagement, really added the finishing touches to such an amazing story about two amazing people deserving of happiness!
a better proposal was such a great story! i absolutely fell in love with jill. she is such a strong character and the story surrounding jill’s anxiety and previous trauma was so well written and authentic! her independence, strong morals, and just the fact that she worked on mending her past while forging ahead made it so easy to fall in love with jill. and alex is the most patient, kindest, and supportive person to have in your corner. he was a safe space for jill! he really gave jill the time she needed to be fully part of the relationship, as she was learning to trust and love all over again. overall, their relationship felt organic and honest.
a better engagement was honestly the perfect wrap up for jill and alex. it felt like you got the perfect timeline of what was happening later on in their relationship. i also feel like there was a lot of closure in this story and everything really came full circle. it was also just really nice to get perspective on their relationship through alex’s eyes. i loved how the story was broken up into four parts, each focusing on a different time during their relationship.
overall this was such a cute and fun read! i can’t wait to read ellory’s future work and i cannot wait for nick’s book! once again thank you so much to sunnybabepr and ellory douglas for providing me with this arc 💜
July 31, 2024
A Better Proposal by Ellory Douglas is a book I knew I'd love, but I didn't know just how deep my love for it would go!
Jill and Alex. Alex and Jill. Jill is etching out a new path and finding her footing in a different city, adjusting to major life changes when life throws her a curve: Alex. Alex and his business partner face challenges getting their tech to market with no systems or funding in place, hiring Jill, and the company she works for to assist.
I loved all the little Southern Alberta references, the Calgary-ism, and how Banff was represented in the right way. But mostly, I loved Jill's independence, her strong morals, and how, although she wasn't perfect, she worked on mending her past while forging ahead. It was easy to empathize and relate to her; she is the type of character that feels like a friend!
Clearly, I loved Alex, too! He was just as thought out and developed. Kind, emotionally stable, and supportive. The kind of character you want your best friend to date - a good guy, through and through!
This Calgary-based romance wormed its way into my heart with its characters, found family, and mental health representation. Sexual tension and the perfect amount of steam round out this novel perfectly!
If you want therapy representation, if you want healthy coping mechanisms, if you want work-life balance, if you want slight fish-out-of-water vibes, if you want the vastness that is the prairies and the beauty that is the mountains... this is your book.
Ellory, I can't wait to read what you write next!
Thank you Ellory Douglas for the complimentary copy to read and review.
Jill and Alex. Alex and Jill. Jill is etching out a new path and finding her footing in a different city, adjusting to major life changes when life throws her a curve: Alex. Alex and his business partner face challenges getting their tech to market with no systems or funding in place, hiring Jill, and the company she works for to assist.
I loved all the little Southern Alberta references, the Calgary-ism, and how Banff was represented in the right way. But mostly, I loved Jill's independence, her strong morals, and how, although she wasn't perfect, she worked on mending her past while forging ahead. It was easy to empathize and relate to her; she is the type of character that feels like a friend!
Clearly, I loved Alex, too! He was just as thought out and developed. Kind, emotionally stable, and supportive. The kind of character you want your best friend to date - a good guy, through and through!
This Calgary-based romance wormed its way into my heart with its characters, found family, and mental health representation. Sexual tension and the perfect amount of steam round out this novel perfectly!
If you want therapy representation, if you want healthy coping mechanisms, if you want work-life balance, if you want slight fish-out-of-water vibes, if you want the vastness that is the prairies and the beauty that is the mountains... this is your book.
Ellory, I can't wait to read what you write next!
Thank you Ellory Douglas for the complimentary copy to read and review.
December 19, 2024
Thank you to @sunnybabepr and @authorellorydouglas for sending me this book for the opportunity to review it!
After reading an ARC of A Lucky Shot (book 2 of the Bluebird Sky series) and absolutely falling in love with Ellory Douglas's writing, I was beyond thrilled to have the chance to dive into A Better Proposal, the book that started it all. And wow—Ellory did NOT disappoint.
Jill is such a raw, relatable protagonist. Her instinct to run from her problems felt so real, and I couldn’t help but root for her every step of the way. The dynamic between her and Alex is everything. The back-and-forth, the tension you could cut with a knife, and the way he clearly sees her when she’s struggling to see herself—perfection. I was practically foaming at the mouth waiting for them to just admit they love each other already.
Ellory Douglas, THE WOMAN THAT YOU ARE. I am in awe. The way you write flawed, lovable, and deeply human characters is a gift.
The tropes? Immaculate. We’ve got:
🥼 Cinnamon roll PhD
😬 Anxiety-riddled FMC
🏢 Workplace with small closets
💕 Forced proximity
🛏️ Just one bed
👩🏼 Nosy sisters
👀 Old grudges
❤️ He falls first
🐕 A dog just as nervous as she is
🌼 A surprising number of flowers
POV: hers
Ellory doesn't shy away from heavier themes, either. A Better Proposal includes trigger warnings for an abusive ex (off-page) and a narcissistic mother, and they’re handled with care and authenticity.
If you love slow-burn romance with heart, humour, and characters that feel like real people, you need this book in your life. Ellory Douglas is officially on my auto-buy list. I’m already counting down the days until the next instalment in the Bluebird Sky series.
After reading an ARC of A Lucky Shot (book 2 of the Bluebird Sky series) and absolutely falling in love with Ellory Douglas's writing, I was beyond thrilled to have the chance to dive into A Better Proposal, the book that started it all. And wow—Ellory did NOT disappoint.
Jill is such a raw, relatable protagonist. Her instinct to run from her problems felt so real, and I couldn’t help but root for her every step of the way. The dynamic between her and Alex is everything. The back-and-forth, the tension you could cut with a knife, and the way he clearly sees her when she’s struggling to see herself—perfection. I was practically foaming at the mouth waiting for them to just admit they love each other already.
Ellory Douglas, THE WOMAN THAT YOU ARE. I am in awe. The way you write flawed, lovable, and deeply human characters is a gift.
The tropes? Immaculate. We’ve got:
🥼 Cinnamon roll PhD
😬 Anxiety-riddled FMC
🏢 Workplace with small closets
💕 Forced proximity
🛏️ Just one bed
👩🏼 Nosy sisters
👀 Old grudges
❤️ He falls first
🐕 A dog just as nervous as she is
🌼 A surprising number of flowers
POV: hers
Ellory doesn't shy away from heavier themes, either. A Better Proposal includes trigger warnings for an abusive ex (off-page) and a narcissistic mother, and they’re handled with care and authenticity.
If you love slow-burn romance with heart, humour, and characters that feel like real people, you need this book in your life. Ellory Douglas is officially on my auto-buy list. I’m already counting down the days until the next instalment in the Bluebird Sky series.
November 10, 2024
Ellory Douglas knocked it out of the park with this one!! Jill is an incredibly relatable character, battling trauma from her past, and healing herself while falling in love with, in my opinion, the perfect guy! Looking forward to reading “A better engagement “. Ellory has been added to my list of must read authors!!! I received this as an ARC from sunnybabepr in exchange for my honest review.
January 7, 2025
Awwwww!
This was such a cute story! Watching Jill learn that her first impression of Alex, while accurate for the time, is not who he actually is was super cute! Then watching them trying to put a clamp on their feelings toward each other because she’s a contractor working temporarily for his company, with their escalating tensions, was delicious. Finally them both admitting their feelings was the hallelujah I needed!
We learn just how hurt Jill has been in the past by her ex and her mother, which has given her huge trust issues and a need to be the biggest people pleaser to her own detriment. I loved how Alex was just the best cinnamon roll MMC and was so so patient with her. He knew very quickly he wanted to be with her, but also realized that she needed to come to that conclusion on her own in her own time.
I also loved all of Jill’s friends in her corner just cheering her on, and maybe helping her see what she’s blind to. They are there for her, but also smacking her in the head and giving her the push she needed to go to Alex.
The deception late in our story that we think Alex has set up had my stomach in knots! I didn’t truly believe that he did it, I was sure some kind of explanation would pop up later (especially given the extended epilogue waiting for me). However, Douglas’ writing was exceptional that I was still so stressed during this part of the story! Luckily I was right and everything worked itself out.
I also appreciate that while our two MCs did get back together, it wasn’t to immediate wedding bells. After all, the bulk of this story takes place over 6 months. But they did continue to work on their relationship, and the little epilogue shows how much they grew together.
Definitely give this story a read if you love a cinnamon roll MMC and an anxiety-riddled FMC, a lumberjack and a Viking made a baby, workplace with small closets, forced proximity, just one bed, nosy sisters, old grudges, he falls first, dog as nervous as she is, a surprising number of flowers, and her POV.
I received a review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
This was such a cute story! Watching Jill learn that her first impression of Alex, while accurate for the time, is not who he actually is was super cute! Then watching them trying to put a clamp on their feelings toward each other because she’s a contractor working temporarily for his company, with their escalating tensions, was delicious. Finally them both admitting their feelings was the hallelujah I needed!
We learn just how hurt Jill has been in the past by her ex and her mother, which has given her huge trust issues and a need to be the biggest people pleaser to her own detriment. I loved how Alex was just the best cinnamon roll MMC and was so so patient with her. He knew very quickly he wanted to be with her, but also realized that she needed to come to that conclusion on her own in her own time.
I also loved all of Jill’s friends in her corner just cheering her on, and maybe helping her see what she’s blind to. They are there for her, but also smacking her in the head and giving her the push she needed to go to Alex.
The deception late in our story that we think Alex has set up had my stomach in knots! I didn’t truly believe that he did it, I was sure some kind of explanation would pop up later (especially given the extended epilogue waiting for me). However, Douglas’ writing was exceptional that I was still so stressed during this part of the story! Luckily I was right and everything worked itself out.
I also appreciate that while our two MCs did get back together, it wasn’t to immediate wedding bells. After all, the bulk of this story takes place over 6 months. But they did continue to work on their relationship, and the little epilogue shows how much they grew together.
Definitely give this story a read if you love a cinnamon roll MMC and an anxiety-riddled FMC, a lumberjack and a Viking made a baby, workplace with small closets, forced proximity, just one bed, nosy sisters, old grudges, he falls first, dog as nervous as she is, a surprising number of flowers, and her POV.
I received a review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
November 26, 2024
Who am I kidding, I loved this book!!! The author’s prose was descriptive, to die for and I just ADORED how she included more formal words (like prescience). FINALLY, a romance book that also tickled my academic brain!!
Moreover, reading about a FMC as she copes and finally heals from profound family and ex-partner trauma, touched my soul.
Jill survived a narcissistic mother and psychologically abusive boyfriend. Her mother always wanted her to be with this douchebag because he was her best friend’s son. Jill��s mother truly is awful. Every interaction she had with either of the MCs made my skin crawl and my heart rate increase.
This book is mostly narrated from Jill’s POV but we still get the glance of the ❤️ he-falls-first trope ❤️ as well as the sublime ❤️ enemies-to-lovers ❤️.
Let’s explain sans spoilers: when Jill was in college, she tried to minor in chemistry as per her mother dearest’s wishes. However she and that field simply didn’t have chemistry. Adding insult to injury, her lab TA was, well, going through it (unbeknownst to Jill) and he did his job as an educator HORRIBLY. For example, being an overall dick and giving final exams with material he never discussed.
Fast forward eight years, Jill is moving into her tiny new apartment in Calgary, nervous for a new role in her job. I, myself feel I need a scary new change in my life so I just adored reading about her.
Let me stop yapping so much and end with this: Jill always volunteers at a local pet shelter (because her mother nor ex ever allowed her to keep a pet) and when she bonds with a mistreated dog, it’s like they were healing simultaneously and I just realized this and I. Want. To. Cry. Again.
Finally! Read this if you like:
🧪 He falls first
❄️ Enemies to lovers
🧪 Workplace romance
❄️ Big, rugby MMC
🧪 Anxiety rep
❄️ Forced proximity
🧪 Third act plot twist
❄️ Cinnamon roll MMC
This is part of a series!! Can be read as standalone an and there’s also a ACOFAS-like type of epilogue novella which is to die for in cuteness and closure!
Moreover, reading about a FMC as she copes and finally heals from profound family and ex-partner trauma, touched my soul.
Jill survived a narcissistic mother and psychologically abusive boyfriend. Her mother always wanted her to be with this douchebag because he was her best friend’s son. Jill��s mother truly is awful. Every interaction she had with either of the MCs made my skin crawl and my heart rate increase.
This book is mostly narrated from Jill’s POV but we still get the glance of the ❤️ he-falls-first trope ❤️ as well as the sublime ❤️ enemies-to-lovers ❤️.
Let’s explain sans spoilers: when Jill was in college, she tried to minor in chemistry as per her mother dearest’s wishes. However she and that field simply didn’t have chemistry. Adding insult to injury, her lab TA was, well, going through it (unbeknownst to Jill) and he did his job as an educator HORRIBLY. For example, being an overall dick and giving final exams with material he never discussed.
Fast forward eight years, Jill is moving into her tiny new apartment in Calgary, nervous for a new role in her job. I, myself feel I need a scary new change in my life so I just adored reading about her.
Let me stop yapping so much and end with this: Jill always volunteers at a local pet shelter (because her mother nor ex ever allowed her to keep a pet) and when she bonds with a mistreated dog, it’s like they were healing simultaneously and I just realized this and I. Want. To. Cry. Again.
Finally! Read this if you like:
🧪 He falls first
❄️ Enemies to lovers
🧪 Workplace romance
❄️ Big, rugby MMC
🧪 Anxiety rep
❄️ Forced proximity
🧪 Third act plot twist
❄️ Cinnamon roll MMC
This is part of a series!! Can be read as standalone an and there’s also a ACOFAS-like type of epilogue novella which is to die for in cuteness and closure!
December 19, 2024
A Better Proposal by Ellory Douglas is the first book in A Bluebird Sky series followed by A Better Engagement as an extended epilogue. I love Ellory Douglas writing. I read A Lucky Shot, the second book in the series, back in September and loved it as well.
A Better Proposal follows Jill as she moves to the other side of the country to start over and to get away form her mother. This is the perfect fresh start until Alex Campbell walks in. Alex is the impossible teacher’s assistant who made Jill's first year of university miserable. He is also her new client.
I loved this story so much. Jill is a very anxious person and she has a lot to work through. I enjoyed seeing how she deals with the anxiety and not letting it get her under. She is such a caring person and to see her character grow and becoming stronger was amazing. Alex played such a big part in her story and she in his.
Alex is such a cinnamon roll. He is caring, gentle and never rushes Jill. He is the perfect gentleman even though work takes up most of his time. He is the opposite of Jill, he is disorganized and constantly late. But when it comes to Jill he always try to be on time and helps her makes sense of the chaos.
Jill and Alex is such a cute couple and they bring out the best in each other. They work well together and the chemistry between them is amazing. My favourite part of the book was that Jill volunteered at the animal shelter and no matter what she will never miss a volunteer session. She and Daisy will just melt your heart.
If you are looking for a workplace Romance, Anxiety Riddled FMC, Cinnamon Roll PhD, Forced Proximity and he falls first this book is for you.
I am looking forward to book 3 as we get to see how Nike's life plays out.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Ellory Douglas for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review.
A Better Proposal follows Jill as she moves to the other side of the country to start over and to get away form her mother. This is the perfect fresh start until Alex Campbell walks in. Alex is the impossible teacher’s assistant who made Jill's first year of university miserable. He is also her new client.
I loved this story so much. Jill is a very anxious person and she has a lot to work through. I enjoyed seeing how she deals with the anxiety and not letting it get her under. She is such a caring person and to see her character grow and becoming stronger was amazing. Alex played such a big part in her story and she in his.
Alex is such a cinnamon roll. He is caring, gentle and never rushes Jill. He is the perfect gentleman even though work takes up most of his time. He is the opposite of Jill, he is disorganized and constantly late. But when it comes to Jill he always try to be on time and helps her makes sense of the chaos.
Jill and Alex is such a cute couple and they bring out the best in each other. They work well together and the chemistry between them is amazing. My favourite part of the book was that Jill volunteered at the animal shelter and no matter what she will never miss a volunteer session. She and Daisy will just melt your heart.
If you are looking for a workplace Romance, Anxiety Riddled FMC, Cinnamon Roll PhD, Forced Proximity and he falls first this book is for you.
I am looking forward to book 3 as we get to see how Nike's life plays out.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Ellory Douglas for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.5
I really enjoyed this book. As someone who suffers from anxiety, I found Jill to be very relatable. There were so many times I could see myself in her thoughts and reactions. Breaking free of toxic relationships and starting over is so hard. I ‘m so proud of her for stepping out of her comfort zone, trying to make new connections in a new city, and finally doing what was best for her.
And Alex. The nemesis TA that certainly is not painted in a particularly good light to start absolutely redeemed himself. He was so incredibly patient and steadfast in his support of Jill and ensuring she felt safe, comfortable, and ready for every new step they took together. We all need an Alex in our lives because he is honestly the whole package.
Also love a good Canadian based book 🇨🇦. Shoutout to all my booksta friends in Calgary!
Highly recommend checking out this workplace romance before the new novella that continues Alex & Jill’s story releases on Nov 25!
Thanks to Sunny Babe PR and Ellory Douglas for the opportunity to receive a copy of this book for a review 💜
🌶️.5
I really enjoyed this book. As someone who suffers from anxiety, I found Jill to be very relatable. There were so many times I could see myself in her thoughts and reactions. Breaking free of toxic relationships and starting over is so hard. I ‘m so proud of her for stepping out of her comfort zone, trying to make new connections in a new city, and finally doing what was best for her.
And Alex. The nemesis TA that certainly is not painted in a particularly good light to start absolutely redeemed himself. He was so incredibly patient and steadfast in his support of Jill and ensuring she felt safe, comfortable, and ready for every new step they took together. We all need an Alex in our lives because he is honestly the whole package.
Also love a good Canadian based book 🇨🇦. Shoutout to all my booksta friends in Calgary!
Highly recommend checking out this workplace romance before the new novella that continues Alex & Jill’s story releases on Nov 25!
Thanks to Sunny Babe PR and Ellory Douglas for the opportunity to receive a copy of this book for a review 💜
November 2, 2024
I received this as an ARC from sunny babe PR! I highly enjoyed this read. Both of the main characters were extremely lovable! I loved Jill and how strong of a character she was. Moving across the country to start over after an abusive relationship and not having anyone. It takes a strong person to do that. I loved the lumberjack of the MMC of Alex and how protective he was but also let Jill figure out what she needed on her own. I kind of got lost with the work part of the book only because I didn’t really understand what their job was! I really loved the romance of this book with the perfect amount of spice! If you are a romance reader I highly recommend A Better Proposal by Ellory Douglas!
March 26, 2024
Love the set up and it’s always nice to read a book set closer to home. Work talk felt a bit dry at first but I got really into the book really quickly.
Loved the mental health rep, her anxiety was really relatable.
Big props for clear communication, I love how they clear the air so easily and maturely and how they continue to communicate like adults.
I missed getting his POV because I adored Alex. A man who is good with kids, plays rugby, is so patient, can cook and has a dirty mouth in bed! I seriously adored him.
Overall I couldn’t believe this was a debut novel. Great read. 4.5⭐️
Excited to be getting Cass’s story next.
Loved the mental health rep, her anxiety was really relatable.
Big props for clear communication, I love how they clear the air so easily and maturely and how they continue to communicate like adults.
I missed getting his POV because I adored Alex. A man who is good with kids, plays rugby, is so patient, can cook and has a dirty mouth in bed! I seriously adored him.
Overall I couldn’t believe this was a debut novel. Great read. 4.5⭐️
Excited to be getting Cass’s story next.
July 7, 2024
5
A very enjoyable romance novel perfect for the reader who is questioning if they should start over!
As a Canadian, I loved that this is based in Canada. There was so much here that made me LOL simply because of how Canadian it was. Most books I read are based in the US or UK, so it's always nice to be on home ice, so to speak.
Jill was a very interesting and complex character. I liked how she had a past that wasn't all sunshine and daisies, so to speak. She's literally having to start over, and the only way she seems to be able to do that is by moving half a country from everything and everyone she knows. Reading a single woman doing that with all she was up against from her past was incredibly special to read.
I think it's so real that people come into our lives at certain points and quite often, we don't know why, but it's clear Alex came back into Jill's life when he did for a reason. She needed to heal and he had the power to help her learn what she needed to heal.
Also, from the bottom of my heart, Connor you're the worst!
There was a line in the book where she talked about how she didn't know when it happened but suddenly all her friends were his friends and she was alone. I've felt like very recently. It really stuck with me because it is the hardest feeling to be in a sea of people and be alone. To know you can never share what you're going through. To never feel like you are deserving of any level of privacy. It's very difficult. Abuse takes many different forms and this book really addressed that.
I do wish there was a little more enemies in this. The prologue set this up for a great enemies to lovers storyline. The angst would've added a little more tension. It didn't take away from the novel and everything that really shone through in this story. That's just a personal preference and regardless, I highly recommend this book.
Bravo to the author. This was an incredible and very special read!
A very enjoyable romance novel perfect for the reader who is questioning if they should start over!
As a Canadian, I loved that this is based in Canada. There was so much here that made me LOL simply because of how Canadian it was. Most books I read are based in the US or UK, so it's always nice to be on home ice, so to speak.
Jill was a very interesting and complex character. I liked how she had a past that wasn't all sunshine and daisies, so to speak. She's literally having to start over, and the only way she seems to be able to do that is by moving half a country from everything and everyone she knows. Reading a single woman doing that with all she was up against from her past was incredibly special to read.
I think it's so real that people come into our lives at certain points and quite often, we don't know why, but it's clear Alex came back into Jill's life when he did for a reason. She needed to heal and he had the power to help her learn what she needed to heal.
Also, from the bottom of my heart, Connor you're the worst!
There was a line in the book where she talked about how she didn't know when it happened but suddenly all her friends were his friends and she was alone. I've felt like very recently. It really stuck with me because it is the hardest feeling to be in a sea of people and be alone. To know you can never share what you're going through. To never feel like you are deserving of any level of privacy. It's very difficult. Abuse takes many different forms and this book really addressed that.
I do wish there was a little more enemies in this. The prologue set this up for a great enemies to lovers storyline. The angst would've added a little more tension. It didn't take away from the novel and everything that really shone through in this story. That's just a personal preference and regardless, I highly recommend this book.
Bravo to the author. This was an incredible and very special read!
February 7, 2024
A very good romance read, that was cute. Thank you Ellory for allowing me to be an ARC reader for your work.
I feel like this book was a small-town romance. However, with the novel being located in Calgary that is a large city, it does feel odd. Perhaps it's because I am a local and knowing what Calgary offers in the city, it would have been nice to explore more of Calgary and Alberta. It would have been nice to throw in some fun local restaurants and local sites to visit.
With Stampede being such a major event in Calgary, I wish Jill had the chance to visit a free pancake breakfast for the fun it. To really get into the Calgary spirit (it's a staple hahaha).
It would have also been nice to see her branch out more with new friends that she made, maybe saw Rachel more outside of volunteer work. It would have nice to see her and Cass also develop a little more of a friendship since the 2nd book will be Cass's story. Even gone a day trip to Banff or the Calgary Zoo.
I do appreciate that not all stories need to have all problems fixed in by the end of it, I'm relieved Jill broke out of the toxic relationship with her mother. That was very satisfying. I do feel like there was a lot of buildup on Connor's jealousy, controlling aspect and constant desire to know what Jill's activities were ,it led to nothing. It may have been unnecessary drama to have him enter her life again, but I felt like the closure could have been played out.
I am so glad that Jill adopted Daisy it was wonderful to see! It made me so happy that found each other! They helped each other get out of their shells and that is what is what they both needed. I loved the humour your threw in with Stampede (wacky foods, 3 types of Calgarians (I am so #3)). I would say for a debut novel this was solid work! Definitely will be recommending this book to other book lovers and to my friends.
I feel like this book was a small-town romance. However, with the novel being located in Calgary that is a large city, it does feel odd. Perhaps it's because I am a local and knowing what Calgary offers in the city, it would have been nice to explore more of Calgary and Alberta. It would have been nice to throw in some fun local restaurants and local sites to visit.
With Stampede being such a major event in Calgary, I wish Jill had the chance to visit a free pancake breakfast for the fun it. To really get into the Calgary spirit (it's a staple hahaha).
It would have also been nice to see her branch out more with new friends that she made, maybe saw Rachel more outside of volunteer work. It would have nice to see her and Cass also develop a little more of a friendship since the 2nd book will be Cass's story. Even gone a day trip to Banff or the Calgary Zoo.
I do appreciate that not all stories need to have all problems fixed in by the end of it, I'm relieved Jill broke out of the toxic relationship with her mother. That was very satisfying. I do feel like there was a lot of buildup on Connor's jealousy, controlling aspect and constant desire to know what Jill's activities were ,it led to nothing. It may have been unnecessary drama to have him enter her life again, but I felt like the closure could have been played out.
I am so glad that Jill adopted Daisy it was wonderful to see! It made me so happy that found each other! They helped each other get out of their shells and that is what is what they both needed. I loved the humour your threw in with Stampede (wacky foods, 3 types of Calgarians (I am so #3)). I would say for a debut novel this was solid work! Definitely will be recommending this book to other book lovers and to my friends.
February 26, 2024
Fantastic debut story from Ellory Douglas!
This is not only a love story about 2 great characters, but also a love letter to the city of Calgary, AB which I am 100% here for.
The character development is great and I loved how thoroughly we got to know Jill & Alex as their story unfolded.
TROPES:
-Workplace Romance
-Enemies to lovers (Id say this is light)
-Forced proximity/only one bed...I mean car....
-He falls first
-Cinnamon roll MMC
Jill finds herself in Calgary for work and soon encounters a blast from the past that she's less than enthused about. She is a character who comes from an emotionally abusive background, and as a fellow control freak who deals with anxiety, I loved the representation of this. She is guarded and careful but also intelligent & thoughtful. She has an adventurous side that's just been waiting for the right opportunity to emerge...
Enter Alex, who after a rocky start, we quickly learn is a golden retriever at heart. Not only sweet, but delightfully quirky in his own hot-nerdy-scientist way, I loved him from the get-go and just kept on going. He was such a safe place and I find characters this steadfast can often get boring but Alex stuck a great balance of being supportive, but also spicy and unexpected in all the best ways.
The characters are really well fleshed out and I love how the locations in this story almost acted as their own character. This *almost* has me wanting to do some back country camping. Almost. City girl at heart over here.
Their relationship felt organic and honest, and the depictions of Jill dealing with her anxiety and leaning to open up and trust were thoughtful and authentic. The chemistry and heat between them was great - overall a great read.
Grab your kindle and get ready to start planning your imaginary mountain getaway.
This is not only a love story about 2 great characters, but also a love letter to the city of Calgary, AB which I am 100% here for.
The character development is great and I loved how thoroughly we got to know Jill & Alex as their story unfolded.
TROPES:
-Workplace Romance
-Enemies to lovers (Id say this is light)
-Forced proximity/only one bed...I mean car....
-He falls first
-Cinnamon roll MMC
Jill finds herself in Calgary for work and soon encounters a blast from the past that she's less than enthused about. She is a character who comes from an emotionally abusive background, and as a fellow control freak who deals with anxiety, I loved the representation of this. She is guarded and careful but also intelligent & thoughtful. She has an adventurous side that's just been waiting for the right opportunity to emerge...
Enter Alex, who after a rocky start, we quickly learn is a golden retriever at heart. Not only sweet, but delightfully quirky in his own hot-nerdy-scientist way, I loved him from the get-go and just kept on going. He was such a safe place and I find characters this steadfast can often get boring but Alex stuck a great balance of being supportive, but also spicy and unexpected in all the best ways.
The characters are really well fleshed out and I love how the locations in this story almost acted as their own character. This *almost* has me wanting to do some back country camping. Almost. City girl at heart over here.
Their relationship felt organic and honest, and the depictions of Jill dealing with her anxiety and leaning to open up and trust were thoughtful and authentic. The chemistry and heat between them was great - overall a great read.
Grab your kindle and get ready to start planning your imaginary mountain getaway.
June 10, 2024
I just finished this book and i loved it! I expected the enemies to lovers to be harsh and drawn out, how most books with that trope normally are but this one was quick and allowed the story to open up much sooner than expected.
Nick continuously let me down. I had such high hopes for him at the beginning but he really ended up being the worst!
On the other hand, the story surrounding Jill’s anxiety and previous trauma was very well written and seemed quite realistic. I also appreciated her inner dialogue being included to really understand what was going through her mind during some of her lower points throughout the book. Alex, Sophie, and Kyle were so kind to her and really gave her the support she deserved all along :’) the epilogue was also super sweet and really showed how much she’d progressed from the beginning
Overall, a really great read. It was such a pleasure to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Nick continuously let me down. I had such high hopes for him at the beginning but he really ended up being the worst!
On the other hand, the story surrounding Jill’s anxiety and previous trauma was very well written and seemed quite realistic. I also appreciated her inner dialogue being included to really understand what was going through her mind during some of her lower points throughout the book. Alex, Sophie, and Kyle were so kind to her and really gave her the support she deserved all along :’) the epilogue was also super sweet and really showed how much she’d progressed from the beginning
Overall, a really great read. It was such a pleasure to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 3, 2024
Dr. Alex. Campbell. He is everything. He is the book boyfriend to end your search for a book boyfriend. This book was captivating from the beginning with a good look into Jill and who she is and how she became that person. Then as we’re introduced to the infamous dr. We fall for him as fast as Jill does.
I absolutely loved her character development and healing, almost as much as I loved Alex’s calm, steadfast presence by her side.
The lack of miscommunication made me turning the pages faster and faster because these two talked out their shit like the grown ass adults they were and I freaking loved it!
I don’t know a person that I wouldn’t recommend this book to, it’s just so good!
I absolutely loved her character development and healing, almost as much as I loved Alex’s calm, steadfast presence by her side.
The lack of miscommunication made me turning the pages faster and faster because these two talked out their shit like the grown ass adults they were and I freaking loved it!
I don’t know a person that I wouldn’t recommend this book to, it’s just so good!
March 1, 2024
3.5!! Review to come..
June 5, 2024
The way I ran for this book the moment I heard about it is all you need to know. I ended up getting a brain infection mid book but all I could think about after the hospital was getting back to this book. The characters thrive through the pages, the tropes are on point. 10/10 Add To Cart.
January 10, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
firstly i would like to thank sunny babe pr and ellory douglas for gifting me a copy of this book alongside an arc of the extended epilogue novella to read and review!
i fell in love with this book in the first chapter! it transported me back to canada (aka a place that feels like home to me) and that would have been enough in and of itself. but there were so many special to me reminders, like mcgill university, montreal in general, and the canadiens hockey team. i was able to develop such a personal connection to this book and it only made me love it more!!
this book truly took me on such a beautiful ride. i couldn’t help but giggle at the cute moments and get so wrapped up in all the events unfolding. truly such a beautifully written book that brought (happy) tears to my eyes multiple times. the pacing of this book was just perfect too, with everything unfolding in such a realistic and believable way - even the last minute twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat and unable to put the book down! i especially loved being able to understand the title and all of its meanings more and more as the book went on.
jill was so relatable, and i loved the anxiety rep she brought to the book. i truly could see myself in her character multiple times. all of the other characters were just as amazing! i think jill’s friendship with sophie was beautiful and so important. i also loved the friendships jill formed with her colleagues and some other side characters.
and of course jill and alex were everything together! they just fit together so well and were exactly what the other needed. it was so good to see jill find someone who would actually listen to her and love her the way she deserves. what could have made this book even better was if we had some dual pov chapters and got to see more from alex’s pov! i think that would have helped open up nick’s character to us a bit more as well.
while i did love this book, i do wish the chapters were a bit shorter. each one was quite long and covered a large amount of time, and could have easily been broken up into smaller and more easily digestible pieces. there were also a few times where i felt confused as a reader, and like i’d skipped a few pages or paragraphs when i hadn’t.
i also didn’t really love the use of ‘prof’ instead of professor in the prologue, but that’s just me being extra picky!
all in all, this is a book that you absolutely must read!! what a gorgeous book to start the new year with!
firstly i would like to thank sunny babe pr and ellory douglas for gifting me a copy of this book alongside an arc of the extended epilogue novella to read and review!
i fell in love with this book in the first chapter! it transported me back to canada (aka a place that feels like home to me) and that would have been enough in and of itself. but there were so many special to me reminders, like mcgill university, montreal in general, and the canadiens hockey team. i was able to develop such a personal connection to this book and it only made me love it more!!
this book truly took me on such a beautiful ride. i couldn’t help but giggle at the cute moments and get so wrapped up in all the events unfolding. truly such a beautifully written book that brought (happy) tears to my eyes multiple times. the pacing of this book was just perfect too, with everything unfolding in such a realistic and believable way - even the last minute twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat and unable to put the book down! i especially loved being able to understand the title and all of its meanings more and more as the book went on.
jill was so relatable, and i loved the anxiety rep she brought to the book. i truly could see myself in her character multiple times. all of the other characters were just as amazing! i think jill’s friendship with sophie was beautiful and so important. i also loved the friendships jill formed with her colleagues and some other side characters.
and of course jill and alex were everything together! they just fit together so well and were exactly what the other needed. it was so good to see jill find someone who would actually listen to her and love her the way she deserves. what could have made this book even better was if we had some dual pov chapters and got to see more from alex’s pov! i think that would have helped open up nick’s character to us a bit more as well.
while i did love this book, i do wish the chapters were a bit shorter. each one was quite long and covered a large amount of time, and could have easily been broken up into smaller and more easily digestible pieces. there were also a few times where i felt confused as a reader, and like i’d skipped a few pages or paragraphs when i hadn’t.
i also didn’t really love the use of ‘prof’ instead of professor in the prologue, but that’s just me being extra picky!
all in all, this is a book that you absolutely must read!! what a gorgeous book to start the new year with!
January 5, 2025
I received a free copy of this book from Sunny Babe as part of a package to do an ARC review for A Better Engagement. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
This is my first from Ellory Douglas and I just loved it! This is probably the first time I’ve read a book (as far as I can remember) where the mental health rep. played a huge part in the story. This story was written in the Third Person POV, specifically from Jill’s side, and it’s refreshing since lately all I’ve read were dual POVs. This kept me wondering about Alex’s thoughts.
We have Jill, who has anxiety due to her narcissistic mother and father, who just goes along with what his wife wants. She has just ended an abusive relationship with her ex-boyfriend, who also didn’t help with her anxiety but instead increased it. Then we have Alex, her former TA in University who was so despicable that almost all of his students hated him. He later turns out to be her new client and has to work closely with him.
Watching them work through the past and building their present was such a pleasure. Jill was someone I could relate to in terms of overthinking and listening to her brain instead of her heart. I completely understand why she had her walls and why her work was so important to her. I loved seeing how she has been overcoming her anxiety and putting in the work. Now on to Alex. Dr. Alexander Campbell may have just topped (as of yet) my book boyfriend list with how patient he was with Jill. He’s late with everything but work; however, he tries to be early when it concerns her. He was such a grump as a TA but he’s actually such a cinnamon roll!
As for the side characters, first and foremost, I hate Jill’s mother and Nick. IYKYK. Sophie and Kyle were amazing friends, especially Sophie. They both gave Jill real talks when she was too caught up inside her head. I adored Sophie as well. She was the perfect companion to Jill, and I glad she came home with her.
Overall, this was a great read. Character development was there and was sitting at the edge of my seat at times trying to figure out what’s happening and was feeling what Jill was feeling as well.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
This is my first from Ellory Douglas and I just loved it! This is probably the first time I’ve read a book (as far as I can remember) where the mental health rep. played a huge part in the story. This story was written in the Third Person POV, specifically from Jill’s side, and it’s refreshing since lately all I’ve read were dual POVs. This kept me wondering about Alex’s thoughts.
We have Jill, who has anxiety due to her narcissistic mother and father, who just goes along with what his wife wants. She has just ended an abusive relationship with her ex-boyfriend, who also didn’t help with her anxiety but instead increased it. Then we have Alex, her former TA in University who was so despicable that almost all of his students hated him. He later turns out to be her new client and has to work closely with him.
Watching them work through the past and building their present was such a pleasure. Jill was someone I could relate to in terms of overthinking and listening to her brain instead of her heart. I completely understand why she had her walls and why her work was so important to her. I loved seeing how she has been overcoming her anxiety and putting in the work. Now on to Alex. Dr. Alexander Campbell may have just topped (as of yet) my book boyfriend list with how patient he was with Jill. He’s late with everything but work; however, he tries to be early when it concerns her. He was such a grump as a TA but he’s actually such a cinnamon roll!
As for the side characters, first and foremost, I hate Jill’s mother and Nick. IYKYK. Sophie and Kyle were amazing friends, especially Sophie. They both gave Jill real talks when she was too caught up inside her head. I adored Sophie as well. She was the perfect companion to Jill, and I glad she came home with her.
Overall, this was a great read. Character development was there and was sitting at the edge of my seat at times trying to figure out what’s happening and was feeling what Jill was feeling as well.
January 24, 2025
Book Review: A Better Proposal and A Better Engagement by: Ellory Douglas
To say I love this story is an understatement. I just seriously am obsessed! I want to go and read all the other books and future books it’s a need not a want. The fact that this story was her debut novel wow it was just beautifully written!
Jill that woman had been through so much trauma with her ex and I felt a kinship with her living through that myself. It was done tastefully and so authentically.
She was so very strong to leave even under all the outside pressure and family members pushing her. She stuck to her morals and moved away to keep boundaries.
Oh and Alex how I wish it was closer to Sunday and have him as my Swoony Sunday feature or Melting for the MMC! He was so observant, kind, caring, and so damn patient! He was her safe space and moved at her pace. Their slow relationship developed so naturally and beautifully believable.
And the Better Engagement was the chefs kiss to this emotional and beautiful story of finding love and affection in your own time and way. I loved that we got the closure and it was done with much more than just a bonus scene. It was just the perfect thing for my heart! Especially since we got to see from Alex’s POV and how he thought and handled things.
Favorite Quote:
“It’s such a small thing to do. If someone I loved asked me to do some small thing to make them happy,I would do it without hesitation.”
🥼 Cinnamon roll PhD
😬 Anxiety-riddled FMC
🏢 Workplace with small closets
💕 Forced proximity
🛏️ Just one bed aka backseat of a car
👀 Old grudges/ miscommunication
❤️ He falls first
🐕 A dog just as nervous as she is
🌼 flowers
To say I love this story is an understatement. I just seriously am obsessed! I want to go and read all the other books and future books it’s a need not a want. The fact that this story was her debut novel wow it was just beautifully written!
Jill that woman had been through so much trauma with her ex and I felt a kinship with her living through that myself. It was done tastefully and so authentically.
She was so very strong to leave even under all the outside pressure and family members pushing her. She stuck to her morals and moved away to keep boundaries.
Oh and Alex how I wish it was closer to Sunday and have him as my Swoony Sunday feature or Melting for the MMC! He was so observant, kind, caring, and so damn patient! He was her safe space and moved at her pace. Their slow relationship developed so naturally and beautifully believable.
And the Better Engagement was the chefs kiss to this emotional and beautiful story of finding love and affection in your own time and way. I loved that we got the closure and it was done with much more than just a bonus scene. It was just the perfect thing for my heart! Especially since we got to see from Alex’s POV and how he thought and handled things.
Favorite Quote:
“It’s such a small thing to do. If someone I loved asked me to do some small thing to make them happy,I would do it without hesitation.”
🥼 Cinnamon roll PhD
😬 Anxiety-riddled FMC
🏢 Workplace with small closets
💕 Forced proximity
🛏️ Just one bed aka backseat of a car
👀 Old grudges/ miscommunication
❤️ He falls first
🐕 A dog just as nervous as she is
🌼 flowers
January 4, 2025
I loved this book a lot. I thought the romance was so sweet and special and made my heart melt and hurt. I wanted to cry so many times with all the emotions and patience that was shown. I also loved that the setting was based in Canada, my country! I felt so much more connected.
I loved Jill and Alex’s character so much. Jill broke my heart I felt myself sympathizing and wanting to cry with her.. so much toxicity and fear in her little heart. She gives off an overall kind and caring soul and has a heart and care for animals too! Alex, I love him. He is first introduced as this grumpy asshole who doesn’t give a care in the world .. but when you fast forward and he reoccurs again you are introduced to his real self , sweet, caring, patient, respectful, safe. He is the perfect book boyfriend and I want him for myself LOL.
This book is written in third person, as a new reader I am still used to this type of writing and found myself having a bit of a hard time seeing who was talking and it felt a bit jumpy to me. Also, some parts of the book where it talked about business stuff and Alex’s environmental things .. I had a very time understanding because I am not familiar with those topics. Regardless, it did not affect the story itself and I loved it just as much.
This is my first book by Ellory and I plan to read book 2 as well! Overall, I think this story and book are great! I would definitely recommend. Especially if you want your heart to flutter! - ohhh and the spicy scenes were nice too.. not to smutty so perfect for those who prefer little / not as graphic spicy scenes.
Thank you SunnyBabePR for the ARC
I loved Jill and Alex’s character so much. Jill broke my heart I felt myself sympathizing and wanting to cry with her.. so much toxicity and fear in her little heart. She gives off an overall kind and caring soul and has a heart and care for animals too! Alex, I love him. He is first introduced as this grumpy asshole who doesn’t give a care in the world .. but when you fast forward and he reoccurs again you are introduced to his real self , sweet, caring, patient, respectful, safe. He is the perfect book boyfriend and I want him for myself LOL.
This book is written in third person, as a new reader I am still used to this type of writing and found myself having a bit of a hard time seeing who was talking and it felt a bit jumpy to me. Also, some parts of the book where it talked about business stuff and Alex’s environmental things .. I had a very time understanding because I am not familiar with those topics. Regardless, it did not affect the story itself and I loved it just as much.
This is my first book by Ellory and I plan to read book 2 as well! Overall, I think this story and book are great! I would definitely recommend. Especially if you want your heart to flutter! - ohhh and the spicy scenes were nice too.. not to smutty so perfect for those who prefer little / not as graphic spicy scenes.
Thank you SunnyBabePR for the ARC
November 17, 2024
**Book Review**
*A Better Proposal* by @authorellorydouglas
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
This was a longer read than I initially anticipated, but the pacing allowed for such beautiful and nuanced character development that I wouldn’t have had it any other way. The book strikes a perfect balance between a slow burn and a deeply emotional journey, taking its time to unravel the intricacies of the protagonists' relationship.
What stood out to me was how effortlessly the story drew me in. Initially, I wasn’t sure how invested I’d become, but by the 40% mark, I simply couldn’t put it down. The emotion it invoked was surprising yet very welcome—an honest exploration of love, vulnerability, and personal growth. Every scene felt meaningful, and I found myself rooting for the characters as if they were close friends.
Ellory Douglas has a knack for writing authentic dialogue and crafting moments that linger long after you’ve turned the page. The chemistry between the leads wasn’t rushed but simmered at a pace that felt organic and real, making the payoff even more satisfying.
If you’re someone who enjoys richly drawn characters, heartfelt tension, and a story that takes its time to build a rewarding narrative, *A Better Proposal* is for you. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone, regardless of whether you’re a die-hard romance reader or just looking for a deeply satisfying story.
Now, I’m off to dive into *A Better Engagement*! I can’t wait to see how Ellory Douglas continues to craft such compelling tales. Another review to follow soon!
*A Better Proposal* by @authorellorydouglas
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
This was a longer read than I initially anticipated, but the pacing allowed for such beautiful and nuanced character development that I wouldn’t have had it any other way. The book strikes a perfect balance between a slow burn and a deeply emotional journey, taking its time to unravel the intricacies of the protagonists' relationship.
What stood out to me was how effortlessly the story drew me in. Initially, I wasn’t sure how invested I’d become, but by the 40% mark, I simply couldn’t put it down. The emotion it invoked was surprising yet very welcome—an honest exploration of love, vulnerability, and personal growth. Every scene felt meaningful, and I found myself rooting for the characters as if they were close friends.
Ellory Douglas has a knack for writing authentic dialogue and crafting moments that linger long after you’ve turned the page. The chemistry between the leads wasn’t rushed but simmered at a pace that felt organic and real, making the payoff even more satisfying.
If you’re someone who enjoys richly drawn characters, heartfelt tension, and a story that takes its time to build a rewarding narrative, *A Better Proposal* is for you. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone, regardless of whether you’re a die-hard romance reader or just looking for a deeply satisfying story.
Now, I’m off to dive into *A Better Engagement*! I can’t wait to see how Ellory Douglas continues to craft such compelling tales. Another review to follow soon!
January 5, 2025
I had the opportunity to read both “A Better Proposal” and “A Better Engagement” by Ellory Douglas.
Jill Northrop was pushed into taking a chemistry class by her parents in college and the TA was so mean and horrible that she decided to change her course of study. Fast forward a few years and she is in a new position and headed for even more responsibility in her job. As a stretch her boss asks her to work with a company on a grant they are trying to get. In walks Alex Campbell, none other than the horrible TA from college.
Through working together Jill realizes that Alex isn’t all that bad. Alex also explains that he did wrong back then and was going through some things and was ill equipped to handle the TA for the class. He works hard to redeem himself. I loved his support of Jill and he was patient, kind and reassuring. He helped Jill feel safe again and we all need someone in our lives that provides that safe place for us to land.
“A Better Engagement” is an extended epilogue to “A Better Proposal” This one is told from Alex's perspective instead of third person POV. I enjoyed the continued growth between Alex and Jill. We get to see Connor get his comeuppance, and I loved that! This novella is short, but I liked how Douglas broke it up into short sections revealing different times in their relationship. Alex is the perfect book boyfriend as he continues to love and care for Jill so that she can grow and create boundaries that she needs in her other relationships.
Jill Northrop was pushed into taking a chemistry class by her parents in college and the TA was so mean and horrible that she decided to change her course of study. Fast forward a few years and she is in a new position and headed for even more responsibility in her job. As a stretch her boss asks her to work with a company on a grant they are trying to get. In walks Alex Campbell, none other than the horrible TA from college.
Through working together Jill realizes that Alex isn’t all that bad. Alex also explains that he did wrong back then and was going through some things and was ill equipped to handle the TA for the class. He works hard to redeem himself. I loved his support of Jill and he was patient, kind and reassuring. He helped Jill feel safe again and we all need someone in our lives that provides that safe place for us to land.
“A Better Engagement” is an extended epilogue to “A Better Proposal” This one is told from Alex's perspective instead of third person POV. I enjoyed the continued growth between Alex and Jill. We get to see Connor get his comeuppance, and I loved that! This novella is short, but I liked how Douglas broke it up into short sections revealing different times in their relationship. Alex is the perfect book boyfriend as he continues to love and care for Jill so that she can grow and create boundaries that she needs in her other relationships.
January 10, 2025
4.5/5🌟, with the novella 3/5🌶
another book with another overthinking main female character that i can relate to..
this book was just pure sweetness i couldn't stop smiling everytime our main couple even slightly interacted
alex was such an amazing partner for jill, not just romantically because lets be honest, that man was perfection, but with work as well.. listening to her ideas and trying to cooperate as well as he could
but back to him being her boyfriend because that was just too beautiful to read.. the way he was so patient with jill after her horrible ex, the way he cared for her, basically worshipped her and just loved her so wholeheartedly.. he was such a great male character and i will think probably think about him for a while
now to gush about jill a little.. an extremely strong woman with great sense of humor, huge heart and a bit of a naughty side🤭.. i loved everything about her except for the way she handled one certain situation but thinking back on it, with her previous experience with men, her reaction made sense
these two together was just a wonder to witness and the epilogue novella just proves it even more. they were just so cute together. not to mention the spicy chemistry we could especially see in the novella, was off the charts
everything about it was just so much fun and i can't wait to read the next books of the series.. even tho i might not be nick's biggest fan..
another book with another overthinking main female character that i can relate to..
this book was just pure sweetness i couldn't stop smiling everytime our main couple even slightly interacted
alex was such an amazing partner for jill, not just romantically because lets be honest, that man was perfection, but with work as well.. listening to her ideas and trying to cooperate as well as he could
but back to him being her boyfriend because that was just too beautiful to read.. the way he was so patient with jill after her horrible ex, the way he cared for her, basically worshipped her and just loved her so wholeheartedly.. he was such a great male character and i will think probably think about him for a while
now to gush about jill a little.. an extremely strong woman with great sense of humor, huge heart and a bit of a naughty side🤭.. i loved everything about her except for the way she handled one certain situation but thinking back on it, with her previous experience with men, her reaction made sense
these two together was just a wonder to witness and the epilogue novella just proves it even more. they were just so cute together. not to mention the spicy chemistry we could especially see in the novella, was off the charts
everything about it was just so much fun and i can't wait to read the next books of the series.. even tho i might not be nick's biggest fan..
January 10, 2025
Book Review(ARC)💍💜:
A Better Proposal/ A Better Engagement by @Ellory Douglas
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Topics throughout the book are:
💍 workplace romance
💜 bratty banter
💍 her POV/ his POV
💜forced proximity
💍 mental health rep
💜 cozy smut
Summary from Sunny babe PR💍💜:
A Better Proposal is book 1 in the Bluebird Sky series. It is a contemporary romance. A Better Engagement is a spicy, extended epilogue novella (under 150 pages) to A Better Proposal. A Better Proposal features tropes like cinnamon roll PhD MMC, anxiety riddled FMC, slow burn, workplace romance, and more. A Better Engagement features tropes like overprotective cinnamon roll, sentimental ring, "my wife," and more.
A better proposal comes from Jill’s POV. She’s such a relatable character to me, especially with her struggles with anxiety and trauma. Watching her work through these challenges and emerge stronger than ever was truly inspiring. As for a more satisfying conclusion, A better engagement comes from Alex's POVt and ties up the first book beautifully. Ellory's writing is exceptional and keeps you hooked from start to finish. This series was such a cozy, heartwarming read—perfect for those cold winter months in Canada!
Many thanks to Ellory and Sunny Babe PR for providing another opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
#sunnybabePR #workplaceromance #mentalhealthrep #abetterproposal #abetterengagement #cozysmut #forceproximity
A Better Proposal/ A Better Engagement by @Ellory Douglas
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Topics throughout the book are:
💍 workplace romance
💜 bratty banter
💍 her POV/ his POV
💜forced proximity
💍 mental health rep
💜 cozy smut
Summary from Sunny babe PR💍💜:
A Better Proposal is book 1 in the Bluebird Sky series. It is a contemporary romance. A Better Engagement is a spicy, extended epilogue novella (under 150 pages) to A Better Proposal. A Better Proposal features tropes like cinnamon roll PhD MMC, anxiety riddled FMC, slow burn, workplace romance, and more. A Better Engagement features tropes like overprotective cinnamon roll, sentimental ring, "my wife," and more.
A better proposal comes from Jill’s POV. She’s such a relatable character to me, especially with her struggles with anxiety and trauma. Watching her work through these challenges and emerge stronger than ever was truly inspiring. As for a more satisfying conclusion, A better engagement comes from Alex's POVt and ties up the first book beautifully. Ellory's writing is exceptional and keeps you hooked from start to finish. This series was such a cozy, heartwarming read—perfect for those cold winter months in Canada!
Many thanks to Ellory and Sunny Babe PR for providing another opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
#sunnybabePR #workplaceromance #mentalhealthrep #abetterproposal #abetterengagement #cozysmut #forceproximity
January 8, 2025
I am not usually a fan of contemporary romance unless it's of the romcom variety, but Ellory Douglas had me falling in love with this novel and novella!
Jill remembers a horrible chemistry course in college where the TA was so difficult and outright mean, she changed her minor altogether, finally making a choice for her own future despite disappointing her mother. A mother who, despite her academic reputation, is manipulative and narcissistic, and partially responsible for guilting Jill into remaining in an abusive relationship with the son of her best friend. When Jill finally escaped the traumatic relationship and embarks on a journey following her career halfway across the country, she lands a potentially huge promotion. First, though, she has to demonstrate new skills, which includes working with a company owned by none other than the grumpy TA from her past. Dr. Alexander Campbell, over six feet tall with auburn hair and muscles from working his own testing fields and labs, surprises Jill with not only an apology, but a safe, warm haven where she learns more than anything that chemistry class ever taught her. A Better Proposal and A Better Engagement shows us a beautiful, healing story with mental health representation (you know I love good mental health representation) and love that had me swooning from the first (well, first at the second chance part) page!
Jill remembers a horrible chemistry course in college where the TA was so difficult and outright mean, she changed her minor altogether, finally making a choice for her own future despite disappointing her mother. A mother who, despite her academic reputation, is manipulative and narcissistic, and partially responsible for guilting Jill into remaining in an abusive relationship with the son of her best friend. When Jill finally escaped the traumatic relationship and embarks on a journey following her career halfway across the country, she lands a potentially huge promotion. First, though, she has to demonstrate new skills, which includes working with a company owned by none other than the grumpy TA from her past. Dr. Alexander Campbell, over six feet tall with auburn hair and muscles from working his own testing fields and labs, surprises Jill with not only an apology, but a safe, warm haven where she learns more than anything that chemistry class ever taught her. A Better Proposal and A Better Engagement shows us a beautiful, healing story with mental health representation (you know I love good mental health representation) and love that had me swooning from the first (well, first at the second chance part) page!
January 15, 2025
4.5 stars
This is not your typical steamy rom com but instead is real and messy and so heartwarming.
Big TW for emotional abuse from a loved one. But the main takeaway is finding yourself and finding love while healing from trauma.
Jill has a lot of baggage and trauma from her family and ex boyfriend. From gaslighting to emotional manipulation the emotional abuse was tough to read. She’s trying to move on and make a fresh start for herself but trauma has a nasty way of sneaking up on you. I think the author portrayed Jill’s journey incredibly well even if it did mean wanting to shake sense into her a few times. The whole weekly reminder to find a therapist and then putting it off was just too real.
I loved the found family Jill was able to form around herself. From her work family to the animal shelter volunteers to becoming part of a softball team… I appreciated that Jill was written as a well rounded individual with a life outside of work and her romantic relationship.
Alex was a therapized king and he was amazing. So incredibly patient and understanding. Not sure it was the most realistic but a girl can dream, that’s what romance books are for right?
Definitely not the lightest romance read but it was so well done. Now off to read the next story with our lovely couple.
Thanks to the author and Sunny Babe PR for sharing a copy of this book with me.
This is not your typical steamy rom com but instead is real and messy and so heartwarming.
Big TW for emotional abuse from a loved one. But the main takeaway is finding yourself and finding love while healing from trauma.
Jill has a lot of baggage and trauma from her family and ex boyfriend. From gaslighting to emotional manipulation the emotional abuse was tough to read. She’s trying to move on and make a fresh start for herself but trauma has a nasty way of sneaking up on you. I think the author portrayed Jill’s journey incredibly well even if it did mean wanting to shake sense into her a few times. The whole weekly reminder to find a therapist and then putting it off was just too real.
I loved the found family Jill was able to form around herself. From her work family to the animal shelter volunteers to becoming part of a softball team… I appreciated that Jill was written as a well rounded individual with a life outside of work and her romantic relationship.
Alex was a therapized king and he was amazing. So incredibly patient and understanding. Not sure it was the most realistic but a girl can dream, that’s what romance books are for right?
Definitely not the lightest romance read but it was so well done. Now off to read the next story with our lovely couple.
Thanks to the author and Sunny Babe PR for sharing a copy of this book with me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
⭐️ 4.5 /5
I found a new fave romance author! Thank you @Sunnybabepr for sending me a copy of this book!
I loved that the main characters got together earlier than in most romance books! Usually, you’re left with only 100 pages (or less) to enjoy their relationship, but here, you get to be part of their journey for so much longer—and I absolutely appreciated that. No guessing where they are at in their relationship.
Her reaction felt reasonable, considering her past experiences, and the story stayed low-stakes. Overall, their love is one of those quiet, steady loves that feels deeply rooted and grows stronger in the little moments. I wish she had groveled a little more but it’s so nice that she found the unconditional and unyielding love of MMC.
The writing was clear, easy to read, and immediately engaging! The characters felt effective in their roles. I also appreciated the thoughtful and appropriate portrayal of someone navigating life—and the effects of it on oneself—after leaving an abusive relationship. Also Alberta represent—love that the setting is in Canada ❤️
ɱყ 5 🌟 ωเรɦ ℓเรƭ:
* Just a little more groveling from FMC—not dramatic or anything but maybe a heart warming, gut punching declaration or confession of love
I found a new fave romance author! Thank you @Sunnybabepr for sending me a copy of this book!
I loved that the main characters got together earlier than in most romance books! Usually, you’re left with only 100 pages (or less) to enjoy their relationship, but here, you get to be part of their journey for so much longer—and I absolutely appreciated that. No guessing where they are at in their relationship.
Her reaction felt reasonable, considering her past experiences, and the story stayed low-stakes. Overall, their love is one of those quiet, steady loves that feels deeply rooted and grows stronger in the little moments. I wish she had groveled a little more but it’s so nice that she found the unconditional and unyielding love of MMC.
The writing was clear, easy to read, and immediately engaging! The characters felt effective in their roles. I also appreciated the thoughtful and appropriate portrayal of someone navigating life—and the effects of it on oneself—after leaving an abusive relationship. Also Alberta represent—love that the setting is in Canada ❤️
ɱყ 5 🌟 ωเรɦ ℓเรƭ:
* Just a little more groveling from FMC—not dramatic or anything but maybe a heart warming, gut punching declaration or confession of love
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews