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The Broposal
In this Latinx adult romance debut from National Book Award Finalist Sonora Reyes, two friends enter into a marriage of convenience to save one from deportation—but everything changes when they unexpectedly fall in love.
Alejandro (Han for short) has never been in love. He purposefully keeps his heart at arm’s length from anyone who might want it, which he lets his family and friends think is due to commitment-phobia paired with a heavy dose. Now, though, he's coming to learn that it might have more to do with his fear of looking too deeply inward, whether that be his sexuality (he's straight, right?), or the looming anxiety about being undocumented in an increasingly hostile environment.
On the other hand, Han’s roommate and best friend, Kenny, is stuck in a soul-sucking relationship with a woman who wants nothing more than for Kenny to ditch Han and marry her. Kenny can't stand being alone, and has always been afraid of being punished for making the wrong choice, so his girlfriend happily makes most of his decisions for him. But when she forces his hand and makes him choose between their relationship and his best friend, he finally knows without a doubt who the correct choice is.
But things aren’t as easy as they should be with Kenny's ex out of the picture. When Han loses the job that had promised to sponsor his work visa, it leaves the two of them anxious as ever. In order to give his best friend a chance at security (and ok, maybe to make his ex a little jealous), Kenny asks Han to marry him. But neither of them are prepared for the very real feelings pretending to be madly in love stirs up.
Alejandro (Han for short) has never been in love. He purposefully keeps his heart at arm’s length from anyone who might want it, which he lets his family and friends think is due to commitment-phobia paired with a heavy dose. Now, though, he's coming to learn that it might have more to do with his fear of looking too deeply inward, whether that be his sexuality (he's straight, right?), or the looming anxiety about being undocumented in an increasingly hostile environment.
On the other hand, Han’s roommate and best friend, Kenny, is stuck in a soul-sucking relationship with a woman who wants nothing more than for Kenny to ditch Han and marry her. Kenny can't stand being alone, and has always been afraid of being punished for making the wrong choice, so his girlfriend happily makes most of his decisions for him. But when she forces his hand and makes him choose between their relationship and his best friend, he finally knows without a doubt who the correct choice is.
But things aren’t as easy as they should be with Kenny's ex out of the picture. When Han loses the job that had promised to sponsor his work visa, it leaves the two of them anxious as ever. In order to give his best friend a chance at security (and ok, maybe to make his ex a little jealous), Kenny asks Han to marry him. But neither of them are prepared for the very real feelings pretending to be madly in love stirs up.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 21, 2025
147 people are currently reading
17425 people want to read
About the author
Sonora Reyes
7 books1,374 followersBorn and raised in Arizona, Sonora Reyes writes fiction full of queer and Latine characters in a variety of genres, with current projects in both kidlit and adult categories.
Outside of writing, Sonora loves breaking their body and vocal chords by playing with their baby niblings, and dancing/singing karaoke at the same time.
Outside of writing, Sonora loves breaking their body and vocal chords by playing with their baby niblings, and dancing/singing karaoke at the same time.
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June 12, 2024GOD IM SO FUCKING EXCITED.
September 25, 2024
Okaaayyyy. Some books are so hard to review. Because they’re sweet and caring and, at the same time, have this stupid side plot that ruins everything for me. This is such a book.
I really loved Han and Kenny and their bro code. I loved how Kenny wanted to take care of his best friend, and I appreciated the heavy themes in this book. Most of you know by now that heavy topics make me happy—or better: make me an invested reader.
But can I rant for a moment about Jackie and how she ruined this story for me? I mean, the topic itself was really good: an abusive girlfriend who ironically works at a women’s shelter for abused women. But she felt so over the top, especially when she got (I don’t want to spoil). Rage ran through my body. And then all those things happening, including Jackie who caused the third-act breakup? Come on! So much drama. I love tackling heavier topics, but this kind of drama? I hate it. I almost threw my e-reader against the wall out of frustration.
So, yeah, I liked this story. For the first half, I thought it would be a 3.5-star read and probably would have rounded it up to four. But after reading the second half, my rating plummeted down and now I’m going to round my 2.5-star rating down to two. And I’m so mad about it because I hardly rate books two stars.
I like the cover, though.
Thank you, Forever and NetGalley, for this ARC. Anyone, if you are interested in this book, please check out other, more positive reviews.
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I really loved Han and Kenny and their bro code. I loved how Kenny wanted to take care of his best friend, and I appreciated the heavy themes in this book. Most of you know by now that heavy topics make me happy—or better: make me an invested reader.
But can I rant for a moment about Jackie and how she ruined this story for me? I mean, the topic itself was really good: an abusive girlfriend who ironically works at a women’s shelter for abused women. But she felt so over the top, especially when she got (I don’t want to spoil). Rage ran through my body. And then all those things happening, including Jackie who caused the third-act breakup? Come on! So much drama. I love tackling heavier topics, but this kind of drama? I hate it. I almost threw my e-reader against the wall out of frustration.
So, yeah, I liked this story. For the first half, I thought it would be a 3.5-star read and probably would have rounded it up to four. But after reading the second half, my rating plummeted down and now I’m going to round my 2.5-star rating down to two. And I’m so mad about it because I hardly rate books two stars.
I like the cover, though.
Thank you, Forever and NetGalley, for this ARC. Anyone, if you are interested in this book, please check out other, more positive reviews.
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January 22, 2025
The Broposal follows best friends, Kenny and Han, as they craft up a plan to get married for the sake of Han's pending citizenship. Despite the urgency of their wedding, with a crazy ex-girlfriend, nosy family, and growing feelings; the two must navigate their newfound relationship and somehow make it down the aisle without anyone finding out about their secret. This was a surprisingly sweet and raw story! The drama and serious topics balanced so well with the quirky characters and light romance in between. Kenny and Han were so cute together, and I loved that they came to understand themselves and each other better as the story progressed. Their relationship and growth was so emotional and completely needed to offset all the craziness surrounding them.
Read If You Like;
🌵Found Family🌵
🌵Gay Awakenings🌵
🌵Friends to Lovers🌵
🌵Nosy Family🌵
🌵All The Drama🌵
🌵Open Door Steam🌵
~Many thanks to Forever for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Read If You Like;
🌵Found Family🌵
🌵Gay Awakenings🌵
🌵Friends to Lovers🌵
🌵Nosy Family🌵
🌵All The Drama🌵
🌵Open Door Steam🌵
~Many thanks to Forever for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
February 9, 2025
I am almost in awe of how terrible this book is. And I do not say it lightly, I don't enjoy being cruel. Sometimes some books just don't click for me but I can see their merits, I can see why someone else might like them even if they're not my speed. But this one, it really boggles the mind the amount of glowing reviews this has. Let's be clear: this is not a good book, not a well written book, not a good novel, especially not a good romance novel. If not for the buddy read I was doing with littlegelen I would have DNF'd this about 15% in.
First, the writing style is supremely boring. There's not a single sentence in this that is literary or beautiful in any way. Just things happening one after the other, an action, a thought, the description of some mundane shit, just droning on. There's not an interesting turn of phrase in the whole novel, not a single evocative image, an inspired line of dialogue. It reads so flat, so drab.
Secondly, the plot. The fake-marriage-for-a-green-card trope sounded very promising and very important in the current climate, and it could have been so cute, but the conflict felt very manufactured. And, like, yeah, it's a work of fiction, everything is manufactured, but this novel feels like half a dozen plot points with barely enough thread between them to weave them together. At all times I could feel the voice of the author in the back of my head saying "okay, how am I going to get to the next thing from here?" It feels so choppy, so unelegant. No character ever makes a logical decision, they never act like a person would, they are full-time plot devices. Maybe that's why they never have any real chemistry, as friends or romantically. And if the characters in your romance novel don't have chemistry, just, what the hell are we doing here. Apaga y vámonos.
Thirdly, despite it being thematically very heavy, the characters never seem to have an emotional response to anything. They deal with ... And they feel nothing. Yes, we're told they're sad, they cry, other characters tell them "you are depressed", but it never feels true. It never makes you feel it with them. And they get over their emotions so easily! It makes you feel, as a reader, like what just happened didn't matter at all, because they're so detached from it. It's specially egregious during the sex scenes. I had to switch my brain into 2x reading speed because it made me so mad. Sex scenes serve a purpose in literature! They're there to illustrate the emotional and physical conection between the characters, to bring their feelings to the forefront, whatever they are. And if they don't serve that purpose in your book, at least make it hot! This sex scene and this relationship and this whole book is emotionally a jellyfish. It's really the most baffling thing I've ever read, the coldest, most tonally dead thing I've ever read. I'm, like, personally offended by it.
I was going to give this book two stars bacause one star is just so harsh, but that ending really took all the goodwill I had in me. This is unconscionable.
First, the writing style is supremely boring. There's not a single sentence in this that is literary or beautiful in any way. Just things happening one after the other, an action, a thought, the description of some mundane shit, just droning on. There's not an interesting turn of phrase in the whole novel, not a single evocative image, an inspired line of dialogue. It reads so flat, so drab.
Secondly, the plot. The fake-marriage-for-a-green-card trope sounded very promising and very important in the current climate, and it could have been so cute, but the conflict felt very manufactured. And, like, yeah, it's a work of fiction, everything is manufactured, but this novel feels like half a dozen plot points with barely enough thread between them to weave them together. At all times I could feel the voice of the author in the back of my head saying "okay, how am I going to get to the next thing from here?" It feels so choppy, so unelegant. No character ever makes a logical decision, they never act like a person would, they are full-time plot devices. Maybe that's why they never have any real chemistry, as friends or romantically. And if the characters in your romance novel don't have chemistry, just, what the hell are we doing here. Apaga y vámonos.
Thirdly, despite it being thematically very heavy, the characters never seem to have an emotional response to anything. They deal with ... And they feel nothing. Yes, we're told they're sad, they cry, other characters tell them "you are depressed", but it never feels true. It never makes you feel it with them. And they get over their emotions so easily! It makes you feel, as a reader, like what just happened didn't matter at all, because they're so detached from it. It's specially egregious during the sex scenes. I had to switch my brain into 2x reading speed because it made me so mad. Sex scenes serve a purpose in literature! They're there to illustrate the emotional and physical conection between the characters, to bring their feelings to the forefront, whatever they are. And if they don't serve that purpose in your book, at least make it hot! This sex scene and this relationship and this whole book is emotionally a jellyfish. It's really the most baffling thing I've ever read, the coldest, most tonally dead thing I've ever read. I'm, like, personally offended by it.
I was going to give this book two stars bacause one star is just so harsh, but that ending really took all the goodwill I had in me. This is unconscionable.
January 17, 2025
E-ARC generously provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much!
4 stars. With a cover that conceals the darker topics its story delves into, The Broposal is a solid contemporary romance that places just as much importance on subjects such as immigration and abuse as it does the love story within it.
4 stars. With a cover that conceals the darker topics its story delves into, The Broposal is a solid contemporary romance that places just as much importance on subjects such as immigration and abuse as it does the love story within it.
September 23, 2024
Even with the many heavy topics this one contains (Sonora includes a great list and author’s note at the beginning), watching these two dummies dance around their obvious love for each other was so dang fun. I couldn’t put this one down.
September 10, 2025
3.5 stars
A queer romance where lifelong friends and roommates decide to get married in a green card marriage.
I have to say, considering the title and the cover of this book, I enjoyed it way more than I expected to. I do think the author was trying to execute too many messages at once in this book, and while they were important, it ultimately took away from the plot and pacing of the novel over all.
Friends to lovers is also usually my least favorite trope, my gripe being they're never really friends to begin with, but Reyes really accomplished that trope in this book. I really believed they were friends before their relationship began and watching their romance progress was really sweet to read. Don't be fooled by the cover, this book dealt with a lot of heavy topics but I thought Reyes did a good job handling them all delicately.
A queer romance where lifelong friends and roommates decide to get married in a green card marriage.
I have to say, considering the title and the cover of this book, I enjoyed it way more than I expected to. I do think the author was trying to execute too many messages at once in this book, and while they were important, it ultimately took away from the plot and pacing of the novel over all.
Friends to lovers is also usually my least favorite trope, my gripe being they're never really friends to begin with, but Reyes really accomplished that trope in this book. I really believed they were friends before their relationship began and watching their romance progress was really sweet to read. Don't be fooled by the cover, this book dealt with a lot of heavy topics but I thought Reyes did a good job handling them all delicately.
January 24, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
The Broposal was a surprising mix of sweet, funny, and emotionally intense. It's an adult romance debut about a modern marriage of convenience plan between best friends.
Kenny is bisexual and in an abusive relationship with his long-time girlfriend, but he doesn't want to admit she's abusive. His roommate and best friend since childhood is Han (Alejandro) a neurodivergent undocumented immigrant. Han hates the girlfriend, but tries to be supportive. He also thinks he's straight, but he's never had strong feelings for a woman either. And he's always afraid of being suddenly deported and losing the life he's built for himself. An ultimatum finally gets Kenny to break things off with his girlfriend, and then he decides to propose marriage to Han so he can get his green card. But what begins as convenience quickly becomes a lot more....
This book does an excellent job of balancing really difficult and heavy subject matter with the lightness and beauty of this burgeoning romance. I was really rooting for Kenny and Han, and this story feels really timely. I also think a later in life queer awakening is not uncommon among neurodivergent people and I appreciate seeing that represented. The audio narration is excellent and gives the vibes of the characters, and nails the varied emotions of the story. Definitely recommend. I received an audio copy for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
The Broposal was a surprising mix of sweet, funny, and emotionally intense. It's an adult romance debut about a modern marriage of convenience plan between best friends.
Kenny is bisexual and in an abusive relationship with his long-time girlfriend, but he doesn't want to admit she's abusive. His roommate and best friend since childhood is Han (Alejandro) a neurodivergent undocumented immigrant. Han hates the girlfriend, but tries to be supportive. He also thinks he's straight, but he's never had strong feelings for a woman either. And he's always afraid of being suddenly deported and losing the life he's built for himself. An ultimatum finally gets Kenny to break things off with his girlfriend, and then he decides to propose marriage to Han so he can get his green card. But what begins as convenience quickly becomes a lot more....
This book does an excellent job of balancing really difficult and heavy subject matter with the lightness and beauty of this burgeoning romance. I was really rooting for Kenny and Han, and this story feels really timely. I also think a later in life queer awakening is not uncommon among neurodivergent people and I appreciate seeing that represented. The audio narration is excellent and gives the vibes of the characters, and nails the varied emotions of the story. Definitely recommend. I received an audio copy for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
January 18, 2025
Yikes.
Roommates Alejandro (Han) and Kenny have been best friends since they were in second grade.
But it’s complicated.
Kenny has just broken up with his girlfriend, Jackie, and is plagued by self doubt. Han, on the other hand, is an undocumented immigrant and lives in constant threat of deportation.
When Kenny suggests a marriage of convenience - the two already love and care for each other - Han wonders if this will be the solution to all his worries. And as they two fake date and fake kiss and fake everything, each starts to catch feelings. Can they be honest with themselves and make it down the aisle before the obstacles in front of them ruin their chances for happiness?
I wanted to love this book, but in the end, I was tempted to DNF. This is billed as an adult romance, but the characters’ (age 23) reactions and emotions lacked the depth of an adult novel. The pacing was strange and there wasn’t any time to explore the potentially lovely dynamic between the boys. Too many things were happening to ever give anything the attention it needed. It was like whiplash.
The biggest issue was Jackie, who was drawn to resemble what can best be described as a cartoon villain. A counselor at a shelter for abused women, Jackie lied, gaslit, and was physically abusive to the point of disbelief. She was absolutely unhinged, and though I understand what the author was trying to do, it was too much.
There were plot points that were important - immigration, discovering your sexuality, friends who become lovers) - but instead we got Jackie.
Though I loved the possibility of Han and Kenny, the reality didn’t work.
Roommates Alejandro (Han) and Kenny have been best friends since they were in second grade.
But it’s complicated.
Kenny has just broken up with his girlfriend, Jackie, and is plagued by self doubt. Han, on the other hand, is an undocumented immigrant and lives in constant threat of deportation.
When Kenny suggests a marriage of convenience - the two already love and care for each other - Han wonders if this will be the solution to all his worries. And as they two fake date and fake kiss and fake everything, each starts to catch feelings. Can they be honest with themselves and make it down the aisle before the obstacles in front of them ruin their chances for happiness?
I wanted to love this book, but in the end, I was tempted to DNF. This is billed as an adult romance, but the characters’ (age 23) reactions and emotions lacked the depth of an adult novel. The pacing was strange and there wasn’t any time to explore the potentially lovely dynamic between the boys. Too many things were happening to ever give anything the attention it needed. It was like whiplash.
The biggest issue was Jackie, who was drawn to resemble what can best be described as a cartoon villain. A counselor at a shelter for abused women, Jackie lied, gaslit, and was physically abusive to the point of disbelief. She was absolutely unhinged, and though I understand what the author was trying to do, it was too much.
There were plot points that were important - immigration, discovering your sexuality, friends who become lovers) - but instead we got Jackie.
Though I loved the possibility of Han and Kenny, the reality didn’t work.
June 4, 2025
everyone stfu I loved this book bye I’ll get my thoughts together in a second
update: I’m leaning more towards a 4.5-4.75, truly I enjoyed this book sooooo much!!! I think the only reason I’m not giving it 5 stars is because we’re teased that Kenny has this sex backpack and I never got to see it used lol. ANYWAYS, I ATE this book up, started it last night and just finished at 2pm the next day, no one could tear me away from it. I loved the heavier topics that were dealt in this book and the way that it was realistic. As a Hispanic individual who knows several undocumented individuals and are in the same situation, the fears that Han experiences are real and it made my heart ache for him and Kenny because it’s not something easy to deal with. Everyday it’s a question of “will they be safe?” and I appreciate the author shining a light on that. Also, the abuse Kenny was going through with Jackie, omfg don’t get me started on Jackie, I wanted to rip her head off the entire book but unfortunately there are people just like her. Ultimately, I loved Kenny and Han’s friendship and their relationship as it grew into that. Goooooood how do I move on from these two?! I LOVE THEM!!!! BYE I LIED IM GIVING IT 5 STARS LOL I WONT BE GETTING OVER THEM ANYTIME SOON.
update 2/1: I very much still love these two Lolita
update update: yeah these two are my comfort characters lol I feel safe with them 😭
Update 4/16: WHAT CAN I SAY??? I LOVE MY BOYS
6/4: I have no new thoughts just how much I love these two 😭
update: I’m leaning more towards a 4.5-4.75, truly I enjoyed this book sooooo much!!! I think the only reason I’m not giving it 5 stars is because we’re teased that Kenny has this sex backpack and I never got to see it used lol. ANYWAYS, I ATE this book up, started it last night and just finished at 2pm the next day, no one could tear me away from it. I loved the heavier topics that were dealt in this book and the way that it was realistic. As a Hispanic individual who knows several undocumented individuals and are in the same situation, the fears that Han experiences are real and it made my heart ache for him and Kenny because it’s not something easy to deal with. Everyday it’s a question of “will they be safe?” and I appreciate the author shining a light on that. Also, the abuse Kenny was going through with Jackie, omfg don’t get me started on Jackie, I wanted to rip her head off the entire book but unfortunately there are people just like her. Ultimately, I loved Kenny and Han’s friendship and their relationship as it grew into that. Goooooood how do I move on from these two?! I LOVE THEM!!!! BYE I LIED IM GIVING IT 5 STARS LOL I WONT BE GETTING OVER THEM ANYTIME SOON.
update 2/1: I very much still love these two Lolita
update update: yeah these two are my comfort characters lol I feel safe with them 😭
Update 4/16: WHAT CAN I SAY??? I LOVE MY BOYS
6/4: I have no new thoughts just how much I love these two 😭
January 19, 2025
This is a frustrating review. The book overall is a 2.5 for me, and for as much as I wanted to like it, the problems outweighed the sweetness of the underlying plot. Han and Kenny are a cute enough couple, but Kenny is insufferable with his doormat energy, and Han's "bro" bit was overdone.
What REALLY ruined this book was Jackie's character. I get that she is supposed to be the book villain, but her character was over the top horrible to the point where there was not one redeeming quality that made me what to read her parts of the book. Even with a villain, you should love to hate them to a certain degree. There was none of the here. The author just made Jackie so horrible it was unbelievable and that, in turn, made Kenny's character that much weaker and less redeemable too. And the third act break up was cheap, but whatever.
The other massive problem here is that this is supposed to be an adult book, but it is written YA, but still tries to touch on so many heavy topics? Relationship abuse, ICE and immigration issues, the effects of divorce, substance abuse and death, homophobia, etc. There were WAY too many heavy topics for a 360 page book that could not deal with them appropriately. IMO, the author should have stuck to either immigration and relationship abuse, or immigration and substance abuse as the main two issues. Throwing everything and the kitchen sink in here was just...meh. Plus the add in of Daniel and the restaurant job just muddied the book.
I wish I could give this book a higher review because it does do one thing very well: it highlights queer relationships and non-binary characters in a respectful and refreshing way. I can tell that the author put a lot of themselves into this book personally, and I respect that. But, I think they ultimately did too much and got lost in the sauce, taking away from what could have been a much more developed romance between Kenny and Han. Sigh.
What REALLY ruined this book was Jackie's character. I get that she is supposed to be the book villain, but her character was over the top horrible to the point where there was not one redeeming quality that made me what to read her parts of the book. Even with a villain, you should love to hate them to a certain degree. There was none of the here. The author just made Jackie so horrible it was unbelievable and that, in turn, made Kenny's character that much weaker and less redeemable too. And the third act break up was cheap, but whatever.
The other massive problem here is that this is supposed to be an adult book, but it is written YA, but still tries to touch on so many heavy topics? Relationship abuse, ICE and immigration issues, the effects of divorce, substance abuse and death, homophobia, etc. There were WAY too many heavy topics for a 360 page book that could not deal with them appropriately. IMO, the author should have stuck to either immigration and relationship abuse, or immigration and substance abuse as the main two issues. Throwing everything and the kitchen sink in here was just...meh. Plus the add in of Daniel and the restaurant job just muddied the book.
I wish I could give this book a higher review because it does do one thing very well: it highlights queer relationships and non-binary characters in a respectful and refreshing way. I can tell that the author put a lot of themselves into this book personally, and I respect that. But, I think they ultimately did too much and got lost in the sauce, taking away from what could have been a much more developed romance between Kenny and Han. Sigh.
January 22, 2025
The Broposal by Sonora Reyes
Contemporary M-M diverse romance. NA.
Alejandro (Han) and Kenny have been best friends since grade school. When Han loses his job and sponsorship for a visa, Kenny asks Han to marry him. They have been friends for so long, they can get past any complications or questions from immigration. But Kenny’s ex girlfriend isn’t wiling to let him go. And she’s not above blackmail or threats to Han’s safety. Their upcoming marriage is accepted by both families as expected which has them self reflecting on what’s real and how they move forward.
This was not a comedy that I expected from the cover. It’s highly emotional with multiple troupes, abuse, coming out, angst, tears, and a debilitating fear of being separated from everything known or being alone.
It’s also a romance with a roller coaster of issues. Any time there is a “No kissing rule”, you know there are lots of hidden and locked down feelings.
Ultimately happy, but heartbreaking on so many levels along the way. Really didn’t like the ex girlfriend. More, to be able to communicate, they have to know their own dreams, issues and deal with them. So much angst in complicated lives.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Contemporary M-M diverse romance. NA.
Alejandro (Han) and Kenny have been best friends since grade school. When Han loses his job and sponsorship for a visa, Kenny asks Han to marry him. They have been friends for so long, they can get past any complications or questions from immigration. But Kenny’s ex girlfriend isn’t wiling to let him go. And she’s not above blackmail or threats to Han’s safety. Their upcoming marriage is accepted by both families as expected which has them self reflecting on what’s real and how they move forward.
This was not a comedy that I expected from the cover. It’s highly emotional with multiple troupes, abuse, coming out, angst, tears, and a debilitating fear of being separated from everything known or being alone.
It’s also a romance with a roller coaster of issues. Any time there is a “No kissing rule”, you know there are lots of hidden and locked down feelings.
Ultimately happy, but heartbreaking on so many levels along the way. Really didn’t like the ex girlfriend. More, to be able to communicate, they have to know their own dreams, issues and deal with them. So much angst in complicated lives.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
January 27, 2025
I’ll start with this was a book I was so looking forward to and I’m sad it disappointed me. The premise of this book is really important given the political landscape of America right now. Unfortunately the execution of this book is not for me, between the choppy writing and some of unrealistic portrayal of queer male life I found it hard to dive in to the story. I do enjoy the MCs banter and their developing relationship but it’s not enough for me to want to finish the book. I felt as if the heavy topics were stacked so high and not adequately addressed, given their importance. I also think there were some triggers including addiction mentions, specific abuse usage, pregnancy/pregnancy loss and specific types of queerphobia that could have been mentioned more in the trigger warning section especially given the weight of this book.
I did listen to the audio and I do think the narrators were really great!
Thank you Forever for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I did listen to the audio and I do think the narrators were really great!
Thank you Forever for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2025
lemme preface this by saying: 3 stars is NOT a bad rating in my book okay!! it means I had a good time!
I literally flew through this—it's short and I was hooked enough to keep going. but also... Han's uncle being named Nacho... was that fr or just a joke?
the irony of Jackie working at a shelter for abused women while being abusive herself was wild. she was AWFUL and I hated her, which means the author did a great job crafting a character you just love to hate. despite all the chaos, it was still a very cute book overall. messy characters, snappy writing, and enough drama to keep me entertained.
I literally flew through this—it's short and I was hooked enough to keep going. but also... Han's uncle being named Nacho... was that fr or just a joke?
the irony of Jackie working at a shelter for abused women while being abusive herself was wild. she was AWFUL and I hated her, which means the author did a great job crafting a character you just love to hate. despite all the chaos, it was still a very cute book overall. messy characters, snappy writing, and enough drama to keep me entertained.
February 1, 2025
(2.5 stars, rounded up due to the audio narration)
This book should have worked better for me than it did. I enjoyed the characters of Han (Alejandro) and Kenny and thought their long-term friendship was excellent. But somehow this never really pulled me in fully.
Han has lived in the US (New Mexico) for most of his life, having been sent there to live with extended family after a near-disaster with his drug-addicted mother in Mexico. But he’s undocumented and so his life is pretty precarious - jobs are hard to get and keep, he doesn’t have a driver’s license, he worries every time he’s near a police officer, etc. He and Kenny are roommates and have been friends since they were very young. Kenny helps Han as best he can, driving him places, etc. Kenny has a girlfriend, Jackie, who I absolutely hated. She was abusive to Kenny and I hated that he felt he couldn’t stand up to her. When he broke up with her, I was so relieved. I guess i just didn’t buy that whole relationship. Jackie was so incredibly evil and Kenny was a real sweetie.
Kenny then figures the best thing he can do for Han is to get him his citizenship by marrying him. (Kenny is bisexual and Han believes he’s straight, but isn’t interested in women at all.)
The topic of possible deportation and all the struggles Han was experiencing were well done and are important topics for people to read about in this personal way.
I bounced between the audiobook and the ebook for this title, which was very convenient, and allowed me to continue with the story even when I could not sit down and read - or when I could not listen. The audiobook has two distinct narrators who both do a wonderful job: André Santana and Alejandro Antonio Ruiz.
Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of this book and for the opportunity to listen to a review copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
This book should have worked better for me than it did. I enjoyed the characters of Han (Alejandro) and Kenny and thought their long-term friendship was excellent. But somehow this never really pulled me in fully.
Han has lived in the US (New Mexico) for most of his life, having been sent there to live with extended family after a near-disaster with his drug-addicted mother in Mexico. But he’s undocumented and so his life is pretty precarious - jobs are hard to get and keep, he doesn’t have a driver’s license, he worries every time he’s near a police officer, etc. He and Kenny are roommates and have been friends since they were very young. Kenny helps Han as best he can, driving him places, etc. Kenny has a girlfriend, Jackie, who I absolutely hated. She was abusive to Kenny and I hated that he felt he couldn’t stand up to her. When he broke up with her, I was so relieved. I guess i just didn’t buy that whole relationship. Jackie was so incredibly evil and Kenny was a real sweetie.
Kenny then figures the best thing he can do for Han is to get him his citizenship by marrying him. (Kenny is bisexual and Han believes he’s straight, but isn’t interested in women at all.)
The topic of possible deportation and all the struggles Han was experiencing were well done and are important topics for people to read about in this personal way.
I bounced between the audiobook and the ebook for this title, which was very convenient, and allowed me to continue with the story even when I could not sit down and read - or when I could not listen. The audiobook has two distinct narrators who both do a wonderful job: André Santana and Alejandro Antonio Ruiz.
Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of this book and for the opportunity to listen to a review copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
April 27, 2025
❤️❤️❤️
January 25, 2025
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an alc!
the broprosal was simultaneously wholesome/smutty, and focuses on healing and entering a healthy relationship, but also very heavy. sensitive topics include: abusive relationships with manipulative partners, concerns of deportation, drugs and overdosing, and racism.
as for the audio, i enjoyed both the narrators!
the broprosal was simultaneously wholesome/smutty, and focuses on healing and entering a healthy relationship, but also very heavy. sensitive topics include: abusive relationships with manipulative partners, concerns of deportation, drugs and overdosing, and racism.
as for the audio, i enjoyed both the narrators!
September 20, 2024
Was sent this book and immediately dove in. This seemed like exactly what I was in the mood for. It ended up being a little heavier than I expected, but I still enjoyed it a lot.
I love a friends to lovers romance and the way these two were so oblivious had me wanting to shout at my Kindle. But it was understandable as well, because they're each going through some really difficult things. Kenny is just barely getting out of and trying to come to terms with an abusive relationship, and she keeps coming back and trigger him. Han has just lost his job and with it, the chance at a green card, which is terrifying for him. So it makes sense that they both didn't immediately notice their feelings for each other.
The themes in this book were all on the heavier side, but the friendship, and later the romance, was so precious and felt so safe, because even before they started a relationship, they're all in with each other and they're each other's support system. I never had any doubts that these people belonged together, and I loved seeing them spend time together and grow even closer.
I love a friends to lovers romance and the way these two were so oblivious had me wanting to shout at my Kindle. But it was understandable as well, because they're each going through some really difficult things. Kenny is just barely getting out of and trying to come to terms with an abusive relationship, and she keeps coming back and trigger him. Han has just lost his job and with it, the chance at a green card, which is terrifying for him. So it makes sense that they both didn't immediately notice their feelings for each other.
The themes in this book were all on the heavier side, but the friendship, and later the romance, was so precious and felt so safe, because even before they started a relationship, they're all in with each other and they're each other's support system. I never had any doubts that these people belonged together, and I loved seeing them spend time together and grow even closer.
March 14, 2025
Oh my ******* god THIS BOOK IS THE BEST!!
These boys love each other more than anything. They are each other's home and always have been and always will be.
I don't even know what to say it was just unputdownable and so cute and also dealt with some heavier topics but got a pretty amazing happy ending.
This is about finding your family in someone and their loved ones too.
This is a new comfort book.
These boys love each other more than anything. They are each other's home and always have been and always will be.
I don't even know what to say it was just unputdownable and so cute and also dealt with some heavier topics but got a pretty amazing happy ending.
This is about finding your family in someone and their loved ones too.
This is a new comfort book.
January 27, 2025
Well! I was very, very late and absolutely did not review this before publication day. Sorry. I was a little depressed.
(Merged review.)
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the eARC! I’ve been keeping up with Sonora Reyes’s books ever since their debut, and them writing a gay fake dating romance intrigued me. Don’t be fooled by the tropey premise, though— the issues front and center of Han and Kenny’s respective arcs give “The Broposal” too much gravity for it to call itself a rom-com—or, at least for me to do that, more like. (Even if it’s overall hopeful, and ends well.) Although, I feel some of the over-the-top writing present in the awkwardness of the romance (especially at the beginning) resulted in the tone wobbling on a tightrope line between lighthearted and emotional.
I was disappointed by how there was very little done with the idea of Han figuring out his “homophobia” towards Kenny was just jealousy. The crossed-out words in Han’s internal monologue made his (comedic) sexuality crisis too obvious a realization for it to be actually funny. It felt a little fanfic-reminiscent? I think in general, though, the first third or so of the book was awkward to read, the narrative was trying its damndest to ship the main characters together, and it was so obvious from some of the dialogue.
I thought the parts of the romance that involved Han and Kenny actually realizing they had romantic feelings (but were fumbling around it) were cute, though. (I think part of that also came from Han having to drop the “bro” out of every other sentence.) I appreciated the weekend rituals and casual moments they had with each other that fitted the kind of dynamic two long-time friends would have. I also enjoyed the inclusion of drag! That resulted in a really cute bonding moment, and in addition, the drag element (subplot?) was a neat way to introduce Leti, as well as show more of Kenny’s self-expression! But I didn’t like the miscommunication that made up a bulk of the plot. It was extremely frustrating to read— especially with a moment in the book where Jackie basically assaults Kenny but it NEVER gets properly called out as such, EVEN WHEN KENNY TELLS LETI WHAT HAPPENED?!?!
Speaking of Leti! I feel like their purpose as a character was literally just to drop in to offer advice or be like “NOW KISS”! (Not an exaggeration! In the slightest!) They barely have personality outside of that, and as much as I know they’re just one representation of a very common romance media trope, conceptually they were cool, and I was bummed as a nonbinary person who enjoys (and occasionally does) drag.
Branching out about side characters— of course I have to talk about the Caucasian elephant in the room, Jackie. I’m basically with every other reviewer on that she was cartoonishly evil. Like, her one personality trait was being manipulative. While I appreciate how Kenny was able to have these surprisingly realistic, conflicting feelings about a partner he was in denial about being abusive, and that his POV chapters can show why it’s so hard for someone to leave a toxic relationship, it was unfortunately wasted on an incredibly one-dimensional character.
But—making for a very clunky tone and topic change, how fitting— I did really enjoy the sex scenes. The kink elements were super light (appropriate, since Han’s never done anything kinky before) but I like the way Reyes writes consent, while keeping things a little hot and having these two (Han and Kenny, of course) being very sappily, incredibly in love with each other. Again! Fanfic-reminiscent! (Different connotation, this time.)
While my feelings are mixed, and my rating isn’t high, as always, Sonora Reyes has a compulsively readable writing style. I do hope that “The Broposal” means we can have more nuanced, mentally ill, casual queer representation in publishing, and I can see it easily finding its audience. (It already has, so.)
(Merged review.)
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the eARC! I’ve been keeping up with Sonora Reyes’s books ever since their debut, and them writing a gay fake dating romance intrigued me. Don’t be fooled by the tropey premise, though— the issues front and center of Han and Kenny’s respective arcs give “The Broposal” too much gravity for it to call itself a rom-com—or, at least for me to do that, more like. (Even if it’s overall hopeful, and ends well.) Although, I feel some of the over-the-top writing present in the awkwardness of the romance (especially at the beginning) resulted in the tone wobbling on a tightrope line between lighthearted and emotional.
I was disappointed by how there was very little done with the idea of Han figuring out his “homophobia” towards Kenny was just jealousy. The crossed-out words in Han’s internal monologue made his (comedic) sexuality crisis too obvious a realization for it to be actually funny. It felt a little fanfic-reminiscent? I think in general, though, the first third or so of the book was awkward to read, the narrative was trying its damndest to ship the main characters together, and it was so obvious from some of the dialogue.
I thought the parts of the romance that involved Han and Kenny actually realizing they had romantic feelings (but were fumbling around it) were cute, though. (I think part of that also came from Han having to drop the “bro” out of every other sentence.) I appreciated the weekend rituals and casual moments they had with each other that fitted the kind of dynamic two long-time friends would have. I also enjoyed the inclusion of drag! That resulted in a really cute bonding moment, and in addition, the drag element (subplot?) was a neat way to introduce Leti, as well as show more of Kenny’s self-expression! But I didn’t like the miscommunication that made up a bulk of the plot. It was extremely frustrating to read— especially with a moment in the book where Jackie basically assaults Kenny but it NEVER gets properly called out as such, EVEN WHEN KENNY TELLS LETI WHAT HAPPENED?!?!
Speaking of Leti! I feel like their purpose as a character was literally just to drop in to offer advice or be like “NOW KISS”! (Not an exaggeration! In the slightest!) They barely have personality outside of that, and as much as I know they’re just one representation of a very common romance media trope, conceptually they were cool, and I was bummed as a nonbinary person who enjoys (and occasionally does) drag.
Branching out about side characters— of course I have to talk about the Caucasian elephant in the room, Jackie. I’m basically with every other reviewer on that she was cartoonishly evil. Like, her one personality trait was being manipulative. While I appreciate how Kenny was able to have these surprisingly realistic, conflicting feelings about a partner he was in denial about being abusive, and that his POV chapters can show why it’s so hard for someone to leave a toxic relationship, it was unfortunately wasted on an incredibly one-dimensional character.
But—making for a very clunky tone and topic change, how fitting— I did really enjoy the sex scenes. The kink elements were super light (appropriate, since Han’s never done anything kinky before) but I like the way Reyes writes consent, while keeping things a little hot and having these two (Han and Kenny, of course) being very sappily, incredibly in love with each other. Again! Fanfic-reminiscent! (Different connotation, this time.)
While my feelings are mixed, and my rating isn’t high, as always, Sonora Reyes has a compulsively readable writing style. I do hope that “The Broposal” means we can have more nuanced, mentally ill, casual queer representation in publishing, and I can see it easily finding its audience. (It already has, so.)
December 11, 2025
pre-read:
i need a cute romance before i read the next acotar book😭
read:
it's always bittersweet when you finish a really good book. and this one was so good. IT WAS SO GOOD.
i need a cute romance before i read the next acotar book😭
read:
it's always bittersweet when you finish a really good book. and this one was so good. IT WAS SO GOOD.
January 22, 2025
2.5⭐️
“If I couldn’t have Kenny for real, at least we could enjoy the pretending.”
I was so sure this would be the queer autistic romance of my dreams, and I am absolutely devastated that this book didn’t blow me away!
That being said, I greatly appreciate the incredible representation and important themes present in this book, and I’m grateful to @readforeverpub for gifting me an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
While this didn’t quite do it for me, there are so many things to love about it, and I’m sure a lot of readers would absolutely adore this. You might be one of those if you love:
🩵 friends to lovers romance
🩵 realistic autistic representation!!!
🩵 themes of abuse and trauma
🩵 marriage of convenience
The main reason I didn’t love The Broposal is that it had too many side-plots, and attempted to explore too many themes at once. As a result many of the plot elements weren’t satisfactorily resolved by the end, and none of the significant moments hit me as hard as intended.
Because of the many plot elements I also felt that the characters lacked depth, and I found myself struggling to understand the reasons behind their actions and thought processes. Both Han and Kenny are emotionally stunted, but I didn’t feel like this was properly explored, and as a result I was just mildly annoyed by both of them.
I was also incredibly frustrated by Jackie, Kenny’s almost cartoonishly evil ex-girlfriend, who is the driver behind the primary conflict of the story. I felt that the exploration of domestic abuse would’ve felt more nuanced and been more hard-hitting if there had been more depth to her character.
TW: Threat of deportation, domestic abuse, substance abuse, overdose, pregnancy, racism, homophobia
“If I couldn’t have Kenny for real, at least we could enjoy the pretending.”
I was so sure this would be the queer autistic romance of my dreams, and I am absolutely devastated that this book didn’t blow me away!
That being said, I greatly appreciate the incredible representation and important themes present in this book, and I’m grateful to @readforeverpub for gifting me an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
While this didn’t quite do it for me, there are so many things to love about it, and I’m sure a lot of readers would absolutely adore this. You might be one of those if you love:
🩵 friends to lovers romance
🩵 realistic autistic representation!!!
🩵 themes of abuse and trauma
🩵 marriage of convenience
The main reason I didn’t love The Broposal is that it had too many side-plots, and attempted to explore too many themes at once. As a result many of the plot elements weren’t satisfactorily resolved by the end, and none of the significant moments hit me as hard as intended.
Because of the many plot elements I also felt that the characters lacked depth, and I found myself struggling to understand the reasons behind their actions and thought processes. Both Han and Kenny are emotionally stunted, but I didn’t feel like this was properly explored, and as a result I was just mildly annoyed by both of them.
I was also incredibly frustrated by Jackie, Kenny’s almost cartoonishly evil ex-girlfriend, who is the driver behind the primary conflict of the story. I felt that the exploration of domestic abuse would’ve felt more nuanced and been more hard-hitting if there had been more depth to her character.
TW: Threat of deportation, domestic abuse, substance abuse, overdose, pregnancy, racism, homophobia
January 18, 2025
This was a super cute book, I enjoy this author's work and this wasn't any different. This is the author's debut novel and I think it still had a touch of that new adult, upper ya vibe to it. The beginning was a bit slow for me but it sped up and was paced well for the rest of the book. The main characters were cute and I was screaming for them to get together lol. The mmc's have known each other almost their whole lives, they are best friends and currently are roommates. One of the mmc's is undocumented and after the other mmc breakup he proposes a fake marriage for a green card. As they prepare for the wedding they get even closer and realize that the feelings are real. There is this plot with one of the mmc's abusive girlfriend and I wasn't into it because of how horrible she was. There are some steamy moments and I liked how the relationship evolved though I wanted more. Overall super cute and I hope the author writes more adult romance. Thank you Forever for this arc for an honest review.
CW: Racism, death of a parent(off-page), overdose, childhood neglect, ICE, deportations
CW: Racism, death of a parent(off-page), overdose, childhood neglect, ICE, deportations
September 17, 2024
Look I really desperately wanted to love this but I couldn't even finish it. It's boring. There's no chemistry. And like it's just... kinda blah.
Also ykw made me just give this up? The leads call each other BRO even like 60% in because it's easier for them to deal with their homosexuality by labeling their love for each other as bromance... I'm out.
Also ykw made me just give this up? The leads call each other BRO even like 60% in because it's easier for them to deal with their homosexuality by labeling their love for each other as bromance... I'm out.
to-read-so-bad-it-hurts
August 13, 2024'A queer romance about lifelong best friends entering a marriage of convenience to avoid the looming shadow of deportation, but neither are prepared for the very real feelings pretending to be in love stirs up.' - OMGG
Source
Source
July 16, 2025
The Broposal delivered a solid, swoony, and surprisingly sweet friends to lovers story with just the right amount of emotional heft to keep me hooked. It’s not just fluff though, there’s some real depth here, especially with the way it handles queer and Latinx identities with care and authenticity. Loved that representation.
───────୨ৎ───────
❀tropes❀
⊹ friends to lovers
⊹ fake dating
⊹ marriage of convenience
⊹ found family
───────୨ৎ───────
✧° Kenny and Han? Total cinnamon roll meets grumpy x sunshine vibes. Kenny’s sweet and a bit reserved while Han has that slow burn charm that made me root for him hard. Their banter was on point, full of tension and longing, exactly my jam. Plus, the humour wasn’t limited to their banter either, it was sprinkled throughout the book in a way that kept things feeling warm and fun.
The fake marriage trope was done right, too. It slowly evolved into something genuine without feeling forced.
───────୨ৎ───────
The story didn’t shy away from tough topics either, including family struggles, undocumented status, trauma, and self-discovery. Reyes handles these themes with care, making the emotional growth feel earned and authentic. There were moments I wanted to reach in and give these guys a hug. That said, a few emotional beats felt a bit glossed over and I found myself wanting just a little bit more depth in some of the heavier moments.
───────୨ৎ───────
❀what was missing❀
⟢ wanted more depth in some heavier moments
⟢ pacing dipped here & there, especially towards the end
⟢ Jackie's villainous ways pulled focus each time
⟢ HEA felt a little too rushed
───────୨ৎ───────
✧° Jackie, on the other hand, came in swinging like a soap opera villain every time she stepped onto the page. A little too over-the-top for me, there were moments I literally rolled my eyes at the drama of it all. It didn’t ruin anything, but it definitely added some melodrama I wasn’t expecting. Or that it needed, truthfully.
On the flip side, the found family and support system shown in the book were such a highlight. From the drag show shenanigans to the genuinely supportive friends and family, it added so much warmth and heart to balance the more serious themes.
───────୨ৎ───────
All in all, this was a refreshing and heartfelt read with characters who felt real and relatable. Given the current climate around immigration and it being pride month when I read it, this story especially hit close to home. If you want a queer romance with charm, depth, and just the right amount of steam, this one’s a great pick.
───────୨ৎ───────
❀favourite quotes❀
➪ “If I couldn’t have Kenny for real, at least we could enjoy the pretending.”
➪ If fighting was proof of love, then she loved me more than anyone. But what proof was there for Han? Luna curled up around my feet. Han left her with me whenever I was anxious, which I almost always was. I looked around and noticed he'd already done my dirty dishes. He never guilted or judged me when my executive dysfunction caused him more work. He just did it to make things easier on me. Everywhere I looked, the evidence was there.
➪ "I choose Han”
➪ To this day, Kenny never let me walk on the side closest to traffic. I didn't understand then, but now it made sense. He was still protecting me.
➪ I always let Han go up the stairs first, since I was afraid it'd be too much on his ankle, and I wanted to be able to catch him if he fell.
➪ “I’m serious, Han. Use me. Marry me”
───────୨ৎ───────
❀tropes❀
⊹ friends to lovers
⊹ fake dating
⊹ marriage of convenience
⊹ found family
───────୨ৎ───────
✧° Kenny and Han? Total cinnamon roll meets grumpy x sunshine vibes. Kenny’s sweet and a bit reserved while Han has that slow burn charm that made me root for him hard. Their banter was on point, full of tension and longing, exactly my jam. Plus, the humour wasn’t limited to their banter either, it was sprinkled throughout the book in a way that kept things feeling warm and fun.
The fake marriage trope was done right, too. It slowly evolved into something genuine without feeling forced.
───────୨ৎ───────
The story didn’t shy away from tough topics either, including family struggles, undocumented status, trauma, and self-discovery. Reyes handles these themes with care, making the emotional growth feel earned and authentic. There were moments I wanted to reach in and give these guys a hug. That said, a few emotional beats felt a bit glossed over and I found myself wanting just a little bit more depth in some of the heavier moments.
───────୨ৎ───────
❀what was missing❀
⟢ wanted more depth in some heavier moments
⟢ pacing dipped here & there, especially towards the end
⟢ Jackie's villainous ways pulled focus each time
⟢ HEA felt a little too rushed
───────୨ৎ───────
✧° Jackie, on the other hand, came in swinging like a soap opera villain every time she stepped onto the page. A little too over-the-top for me, there were moments I literally rolled my eyes at the drama of it all. It didn’t ruin anything, but it definitely added some melodrama I wasn’t expecting. Or that it needed, truthfully.
On the flip side, the found family and support system shown in the book were such a highlight. From the drag show shenanigans to the genuinely supportive friends and family, it added so much warmth and heart to balance the more serious themes.
───────୨ৎ───────
All in all, this was a refreshing and heartfelt read with characters who felt real and relatable. Given the current climate around immigration and it being pride month when I read it, this story especially hit close to home. If you want a queer romance with charm, depth, and just the right amount of steam, this one’s a great pick.
───────୨ৎ───────
❀favourite quotes❀
➪ “If I couldn’t have Kenny for real, at least we could enjoy the pretending.”
➪ If fighting was proof of love, then she loved me more than anyone. But what proof was there for Han? Luna curled up around my feet. Han left her with me whenever I was anxious, which I almost always was. I looked around and noticed he'd already done my dirty dishes. He never guilted or judged me when my executive dysfunction caused him more work. He just did it to make things easier on me. Everywhere I looked, the evidence was there.
➪ "I choose Han”
➪ To this day, Kenny never let me walk on the side closest to traffic. I didn't understand then, but now it made sense. He was still protecting me.
➪ I always let Han go up the stairs first, since I was afraid it'd be too much on his ankle, and I wanted to be able to catch him if he fell.
➪ “I’m serious, Han. Use me. Marry me”
July 23, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for this advanced copy of the audiobook.
The Broposal is the story of two best friends falling for each other. Alejandro, or Han for his friends, has never been in love. Sure he's had girlfriends, but he's always had a fear of commitment. These relationships only last a few weeks and Han believes it's because he knows he can never truly commit. Han is undocumented, and he lives daily with the fear of having his whole life taken away from him. His best friend since childhood is Kenny. Kenny is kind. He's very easy going, he has a great relationship with his family and friends and he's Han's support. He's also bi. A fact that his girlfriend has always ignored. Though Kenny is a very open person, he'd never admit he is in an abusive relationship. However, Han can see the signs.
When Han is even more fearful of his circumstances, Kenny offers an idea. Marrying each other so Han can stay. Though at first Han thinks it a joke, he finally accepts when he admits his situation to be worrying. And what's always been a friendship between them changes into something more when they realise what they really mean to each other.
This book was okay. I appreciate the fact that it doesn't shy away from very timely and dark themes, like immigration, racism, and abuse.
The fact that this book explores a relationship with an abusive girlfriend is also quite important. Kenny has to go through so much to finally stop excusing her behaviour and realising he has been a victim for years. It's sad but written realistically.
I really liked the cast that surrounds these two main leads. Though as always with romance books, I wish we'd get more of these secondary characters as their own person and not only when they are necessary for the romantic plot to advance. It was a little disappointing how Han's cousin was really fleshed out at the beginning, but as the story progresses they're only there to be the character that forces Han and Kenny to communicate with one another.
All in all it was a good story though predictable and very slow paced. Though the fake engagement happens early in the story, the miscommunication and lack of romantic progress were what made me struggle with the story. Han has issues with communicating his true feelings and Kenny is so respectful that he never wants to confront their issues. So, this dynamic gave way to unnecessary problems and issues with the pacing, and all of it is resolved only at the very end.
As I listened to the audiobook, I think it was the dual narration by André Santana and Alejandro Antonio Ruiz that made me want to keep reading. It was them that allowed me to finish this story in a couple of days. They brought the characters to life and improve the source material. I really recommend the audiobook if you are interested in this queer story of childhood friends to lovers.
The Broposal is the story of two best friends falling for each other. Alejandro, or Han for his friends, has never been in love. Sure he's had girlfriends, but he's always had a fear of commitment. These relationships only last a few weeks and Han believes it's because he knows he can never truly commit. Han is undocumented, and he lives daily with the fear of having his whole life taken away from him. His best friend since childhood is Kenny. Kenny is kind. He's very easy going, he has a great relationship with his family and friends and he's Han's support. He's also bi. A fact that his girlfriend has always ignored. Though Kenny is a very open person, he'd never admit he is in an abusive relationship. However, Han can see the signs.
When Han is even more fearful of his circumstances, Kenny offers an idea. Marrying each other so Han can stay. Though at first Han thinks it a joke, he finally accepts when he admits his situation to be worrying. And what's always been a friendship between them changes into something more when they realise what they really mean to each other.
This book was okay. I appreciate the fact that it doesn't shy away from very timely and dark themes, like immigration, racism, and abuse.
The fact that this book explores a relationship with an abusive girlfriend is also quite important. Kenny has to go through so much to finally stop excusing her behaviour and realising he has been a victim for years. It's sad but written realistically.
I really liked the cast that surrounds these two main leads. Though as always with romance books, I wish we'd get more of these secondary characters as their own person and not only when they are necessary for the romantic plot to advance. It was a little disappointing how Han's cousin was really fleshed out at the beginning, but as the story progresses they're only there to be the character that forces Han and Kenny to communicate with one another.
All in all it was a good story though predictable and very slow paced. Though the fake engagement happens early in the story, the miscommunication and lack of romantic progress were what made me struggle with the story. Han has issues with communicating his true feelings and Kenny is so respectful that he never wants to confront their issues. So, this dynamic gave way to unnecessary problems and issues with the pacing, and all of it is resolved only at the very end.
As I listened to the audiobook, I think it was the dual narration by André Santana and Alejandro Antonio Ruiz that made me want to keep reading. It was them that allowed me to finish this story in a couple of days. They brought the characters to life and improve the source material. I really recommend the audiobook if you are interested in this queer story of childhood friends to lovers.
April 3, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Hachette Audio for providing me with an advance copy of this audiobook! As a fan of Hallmark-esque romance novels, I couldn't wait to dive into The Broposal by Sonora Reyes, and it certainly didn't dissappoint.
3 ★★★'s!!
The Broposal follows the story of Alejandro and Kenny, two best friends and roommates who navigate their personal challenges while developing feelings for each other. The book is told from both their perspectives, but it primarily centers on Alejandro. As he faces the precarious situation of obtaining his green card after losing his job due to his short temper, Alejandro's world becomes even more complicated. His best friend Kenny, fresh from a toxic relationship with a girlfriend who doesn't accept his bisexuality, is dealing with his own set of struggles.
At its core, this book is a charming exploration of friendship, love, and identity, and it unfolds exactly how you might imagine-a delightful Hallmark-style romance that delivers exactly what it promises. Despite its predictability, the story is heartwarming and easy to fall into, particularly if you love stories where the characters navigate their relationship alongside self-discovery.
One of the standout features of the audiobook was its narration. The voice actors, Andre Santana and Alejandro Antonio Ruiz, brought the characters to life with their engaging performances. Santana's voice captured Kenny's warmth and sarcasm, while Ruiz gave Alejandro's inner turmoil and passion a compelling depth. Their voices complemented each other perfectly, reflecting the bond and contrasting personalities of the two characters. While I enjoyed the overall performance, my one critique woud be that at certain points, the emotion felt somewhat flat-especially in moments that could've benefitted from more intensity. This is a common issue with audiobooks, but it did slightly impact the emotional impact in a few keys scenes.
The frequent use of the word "Bro" also provided a bit of comic relief, though it was repeated so often that it became a bit jarring, especially in more serious moments (I know, it's literally the title of the book). Overall, this audiobook was an enjoyable read that's easy to recommend to fans of sweet, predictable romances with plenty of heart. The cultural elements and the vibrant performances of the voice actors elevate the book, and I'm happy to have had the chance to listen to it.
3 ★★★'s!!
The Broposal follows the story of Alejandro and Kenny, two best friends and roommates who navigate their personal challenges while developing feelings for each other. The book is told from both their perspectives, but it primarily centers on Alejandro. As he faces the precarious situation of obtaining his green card after losing his job due to his short temper, Alejandro's world becomes even more complicated. His best friend Kenny, fresh from a toxic relationship with a girlfriend who doesn't accept his bisexuality, is dealing with his own set of struggles.
At its core, this book is a charming exploration of friendship, love, and identity, and it unfolds exactly how you might imagine-a delightful Hallmark-style romance that delivers exactly what it promises. Despite its predictability, the story is heartwarming and easy to fall into, particularly if you love stories where the characters navigate their relationship alongside self-discovery.
One of the standout features of the audiobook was its narration. The voice actors, Andre Santana and Alejandro Antonio Ruiz, brought the characters to life with their engaging performances. Santana's voice captured Kenny's warmth and sarcasm, while Ruiz gave Alejandro's inner turmoil and passion a compelling depth. Their voices complemented each other perfectly, reflecting the bond and contrasting personalities of the two characters. While I enjoyed the overall performance, my one critique woud be that at certain points, the emotion felt somewhat flat-especially in moments that could've benefitted from more intensity. This is a common issue with audiobooks, but it did slightly impact the emotional impact in a few keys scenes.
The frequent use of the word "Bro" also provided a bit of comic relief, though it was repeated so often that it became a bit jarring, especially in more serious moments (I know, it's literally the title of the book). Overall, this audiobook was an enjoyable read that's easy to recommend to fans of sweet, predictable romances with plenty of heart. The cultural elements and the vibrant performances of the voice actors elevate the book, and I'm happy to have had the chance to listen to it.
dnf
February 28, 2025dnf at 37%
imagine your child comes with his gf and asks to marry her. they have dating on & off for 10 years and you say 'no you two should take some time'. then your child goes to live his life. two weeks later, he comes to your house with his best friend and is like 'mum, this is the love of my life i'm going to marry him tonight' and you say 'ohmygod yes ofcourse here have the family heirloom' (-_-)
i DO NOT want to hear or consider anything else. i cannot feel an ounce of genuineness or realism or connection between the characters. i just cannot do this. i was genuinely so excited for this book. i'm so disappointed noone is more disappointed than me
imagine your child comes with his gf and asks to marry her. they have dating on & off for 10 years and you say 'no you two should take some time'. then your child goes to live his life. two weeks later, he comes to your house with his best friend and is like 'mum, this is the love of my life i'm going to marry him tonight' and you say 'ohmygod yes ofcourse here have the family heirloom' (-_-)
i DO NOT want to hear or consider anything else. i cannot feel an ounce of genuineness or realism or connection between the characters. i just cannot do this. i was genuinely so excited for this book. i'm so disappointed noone is more disappointed than me
August 3, 2025
2.5 stars. I LOVED the author’s Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic school. This one was not as strong and had some character issues.
What I liked
I appreciate a story about a character (Han) who has a difficult time with their sexuality and has to work through some internalized homophobia.
I liked how supportive Kenny’s parents were
Estranged mom/addiction storyline.
Ambitious to tackle ICE and immigration storyline
Kenny and Han had a good, true, friends to lovers connection (although this wasn’t explored nearly enough)
What I didn’t
Both characters stayed in abusive jobs, relationships and seemed reluctant to stand up for themselves
Jackie character was absolutely awful. It would have been better if she had some redeeming qualities so we could understand why Kenny would stay with her
The jump from the ending to epilogue (5 years later) skipped everything I wanted to know about them
I’m not done with this author, I just think this one was a miss for me.
What I liked
I appreciate a story about a character (Han) who has a difficult time with their sexuality and has to work through some internalized homophobia.
I liked how supportive Kenny’s parents were
Estranged mom/addiction storyline.
Ambitious to tackle ICE and immigration storyline
Kenny and Han had a good, true, friends to lovers connection (although this wasn’t explored nearly enough)
What I didn’t
Both characters stayed in abusive jobs, relationships and seemed reluctant to stand up for themselves
Jackie character was absolutely awful. It would have been better if she had some redeeming qualities so we could understand why Kenny would stay with her
The jump from the ending to epilogue (5 years later) skipped everything I wanted to know about them
I’m not done with this author, I just think this one was a miss for me.
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