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A Bluebird Sky #2.5
A Better Engagement
From the moment she smiled at me, my heart belonged to the woman who was reclaiming her life after losing herself. Nothing that gentle treatment and letting her take the lead wouldn’t heal.
Good thing I’m a patient man.
Two years later, Jill is ready to be my wife, which leaves us the minor detail of planning a wedding. I thought my planning-obsessed fiancée would be in her element.
Enter her narcissistic mother—who happens to be my academic idol—with a plan of her own.
Now my first job as Jill’s future husband is to keep my anxious bride-to-be from falling to pieces while she tries to balance pleasing her mother with having the wedding that she wants.
What could go wrong?
A Better Engagement is a spicy, extended epilogue to A Better Proposal, following Alex and Jill from “Yes!” to “I do,” and their hijinks along the way.
Good thing I’m a patient man.
Two years later, Jill is ready to be my wife, which leaves us the minor detail of planning a wedding. I thought my planning-obsessed fiancée would be in her element.
Enter her narcissistic mother—who happens to be my academic idol—with a plan of her own.
Now my first job as Jill’s future husband is to keep my anxious bride-to-be from falling to pieces while she tries to balance pleasing her mother with having the wedding that she wants.
What could go wrong?
A Better Engagement is a spicy, extended epilogue to A Better Proposal, following Alex and Jill from “Yes!” to “I do,” and their hijinks along the way.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 25, 2024
2 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 19, 2024
A Better Engagement by Ellory Douglas is an extended epilogue of A Better Proposal,the first book in A Bluebird Sky series. I love Ellory Douglas writing. I read A Better Proposal (book1) and A Lucky Shot (book 2) and loved it as well.
A Better Engagement is told from Alex's POV. This is a short novella and take place at the same time as A Lucky Shot. This novella is an extended epilogue of book 1 and takes place a year after book 2. We follow Alex as he tried to keep his future wife's anxious at bay as she deals with her mother and the wedding.
I love this novella as it ends off the first book and we get to see the HEA. I also love how we get to see how Alex feels about Jill, the engagement, wedding and possible future kids. This is a perfect extension as I was not ready to let these charters go. This book has tropes such as an overprotective cinnamon roll, sentimental ring, "my wife", cozy smut and bratty banter.
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 Engagement is told from Alex's POV. This is a short novella and take place at the same time as A Lucky Shot. This novella is an extended epilogue of book 1 and takes place a year after book 2. We follow Alex as he tried to keep his future wife's anxious at bay as she deals with her mother and the wedding.
I love this novella as it ends off the first book and we get to see the HEA. I also love how we get to see how Alex feels about Jill, the engagement, wedding and possible future kids. This is a perfect extension as I was not ready to let these charters go. This book has tropes such as an overprotective cinnamon roll, sentimental ring, "my wife", cozy smut and bratty banter.
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 10, 2024
I read this book as an ARC through Sunny Babe PR. OMG I loved this 😭 Alex’s POV was everything I didn’t know I needed. I absolutely loved seeing how madly in love he is with Jill and just how caring and understanding and nurturing he is. Absolutely the best cinnamon roll boyfriend I have read🥰
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 💜
January 7, 2025
The perfect ending to Jill and Alex’s story!
The beginning of this epilogue novella overlaps with some of the time break seen before the end of A Better Proposal. Given that this story is from Alex’s POV, I appreciated the small rewind. And seeing how he’s so desperate for her, you really feel for them. In this novella, they go through the stages of a long engagement, and how their families differs so much.
I loved that Jill was finally working on herself again and being stronger in standing her ground and holding onto her boundaries. When she started to waver, Alex was right there holding her up and enforcing her boundaries with her.
I could sense that as soon as her mother got involved in the planning that everything was going to hit the fan, and it did. She kept pushing and pushing to have Jill do things the way that her mother wanted instead of what Jill and Alex wanted. But seeing her ex get part of the comeuppance that he deserved was such sweet justice! And finally Jill and Alex realizing that they were planning this elaborate wedding, not for them but for everyone else, and just got married instead with their friends was such a beautiful ending.
If you loved A Better Proposal, you have to read this novella, especially if you love an overprotective cinnamon roll, all the cozy smut, bratty banter, no third act break-up, "my wife," gratuitous Canadiana, sentimental ring, and his POV.
I received an advanced review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
The beginning of this epilogue novella overlaps with some of the time break seen before the end of A Better Proposal. Given that this story is from Alex’s POV, I appreciated the small rewind. And seeing how he’s so desperate for her, you really feel for them. In this novella, they go through the stages of a long engagement, and how their families differs so much.
I loved that Jill was finally working on herself again and being stronger in standing her ground and holding onto her boundaries. When she started to waver, Alex was right there holding her up and enforcing her boundaries with her.
I could sense that as soon as her mother got involved in the planning that everything was going to hit the fan, and it did. She kept pushing and pushing to have Jill do things the way that her mother wanted instead of what Jill and Alex wanted. But seeing her ex get part of the comeuppance that he deserved was such sweet justice! And finally Jill and Alex realizing that they were planning this elaborate wedding, not for them but for everyone else, and just got married instead with their friends was such a beautiful ending.
If you loved A Better Proposal, you have to read this novella, especially if you love an overprotective cinnamon roll, all the cozy smut, bratty banter, no third act break-up, "my wife," gratuitous Canadiana, sentimental ring, and his POV.
I received an advanced review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
December 10, 2024
A nice ending novella, where we get into Alex's head. I liked reading about his feelings for Jill, and I definitely liked what happened to Connor.
Thank you Sunny Babe pr for the arc of this novella.
Thank you Sunny Babe pr for the arc of this novella.
November 24, 2024
Thanks to Sunny Babe PR for the arc! A great follow-up to this story. New fav author alert!!
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 storytelling, I was thrilled to go back and experience A Better Engagement. And let me just say — Ellory did not hold back. This novella is the perfect blend of heart, heat, and happily-ever-after.
Alex is, without a doubt, the standard that fictional love interests should be held to. Overprotective but never overbearing, sweet but never boring , and somehow manages to be both a Viking-esque lumberjack and the softest cinnamon roll on the planet. Where can I find an Alex, please? I’m asking sincerely because men like this shouldn't only exist in books 😩. His love for Jill is so present in every word, every glance, and every action 🥺. And the way he calls her "my wife" like it's his proudest accomplishment? I melted every single time 🥰.
If you love cosy intimacy with a side of spice, you’re in for a treat 👀. The romance here is equal parts tender and steamy, and oh, the spicy scenes 🥵 — they do NOT disappoint. It’s all so intentional and emotionally driven, which makes it feel that much more satisfying. There is a breeding kink adjacent moment 🚨 (you’ve been warned), but in the context of the story, it makes complete sense and is handled with just the right amount of subtlety and passion ❤️🔥.
Tropes you’ll love in this novella: 🥼 Overprotective cinnamon roll 🥰All the cosy smut 😈 Bratty banter 🚫 No third-act breakup 💍 “My wife” 📖 Novella for fast, one handed reading 👀
POV: his
This novella perfectly balances heartwarming moments with passion and humour. It feels like being wrapped in a warm hug while simultaneously being completely swept away by the romance. No unnecessary third-act breakup, no forced drama — just two people so deeply in love, you can’t help but feel it right along with them.
Ellory Douglas has a way of making her characters feel so real, and she never fails to deliver a love story that’s as genuine as it is swoon-worthy 😍. If you’re a fan of overprotective but soft-hearted heroes, love that feels grounded and authentic, and steam that’s as emotional as it is passionate, this novella will be everything you’re looking for. Ellory Douglas, you’ve done it again 👏🏽👑.
After reading an ARC of A Lucky Shot (book 2 of the Bluebird Sky series) and absolutely falling in love with Ellory Douglas’s storytelling, I was thrilled to go back and experience A Better Engagement. And let me just say — Ellory did not hold back. This novella is the perfect blend of heart, heat, and happily-ever-after.
Alex is, without a doubt, the standard that fictional love interests should be held to. Overprotective but never overbearing, sweet but never boring , and somehow manages to be both a Viking-esque lumberjack and the softest cinnamon roll on the planet. Where can I find an Alex, please? I’m asking sincerely because men like this shouldn't only exist in books 😩. His love for Jill is so present in every word, every glance, and every action 🥺. And the way he calls her "my wife" like it's his proudest accomplishment? I melted every single time 🥰.
If you love cosy intimacy with a side of spice, you’re in for a treat 👀. The romance here is equal parts tender and steamy, and oh, the spicy scenes 🥵 — they do NOT disappoint. It’s all so intentional and emotionally driven, which makes it feel that much more satisfying. There is a breeding kink adjacent moment 🚨 (you’ve been warned), but in the context of the story, it makes complete sense and is handled with just the right amount of subtlety and passion ❤️🔥.
Tropes you’ll love in this novella: 🥼 Overprotective cinnamon roll 🥰All the cosy smut 😈 Bratty banter 🚫 No third-act breakup 💍 “My wife” 📖 Novella for fast, one handed reading 👀
POV: his
This novella perfectly balances heartwarming moments with passion and humour. It feels like being wrapped in a warm hug while simultaneously being completely swept away by the romance. No unnecessary third-act breakup, no forced drama — just two people so deeply in love, you can’t help but feel it right along with them.
Ellory Douglas has a way of making her characters feel so real, and she never fails to deliver a love story that’s as genuine as it is swoon-worthy 😍. If you’re a fan of overprotective but soft-hearted heroes, love that feels grounded and authentic, and steam that’s as emotional as it is passionate, this novella will be everything you’re looking for. Ellory Douglas, you’ve done it again 👏🏽👑.
February 2, 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 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
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!
November 5, 2024
Review is for A Better Proposal and A Better Engagement!
Summary:
Jill is fresh out of a toxic relationship in a brand new job with her first big client—and it’s the guy who made her college chemistry class one of the worst experiences of her life. Except, Alex really isn’t all the bad. In fact, he might just be the sweetest man she’s ever met. Plus a novella A Better Engagement for an extended epilogue!
Title: A Better Proposal
Author: Ellory Douglas
@authorellorydouglas
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Tropes:
He Falls First
Forced Proximity
Cinnamon Roll MMC
Anxiety Disorder Rep
One Car Trope
Triggers:
Miscommunication Trope
Panic Attacks
Manipulative Parent
Abusive Ex
Whitney’s Thoughts:
Ellory has quickly become a must-buy author for me! Her MMCs love their FMCs so much and I’m a sucker for a soulmate. This book especially speaks to me as someone with an anxiety disorder who often feels like I’m too hard to love. The novella epilogue from Alex’s POV was such a fun addition and I loved seeing some Connor karma! Can’t wait for Nick’s book!
Summary:
Jill is fresh out of a toxic relationship in a brand new job with her first big client—and it’s the guy who made her college chemistry class one of the worst experiences of her life. Except, Alex really isn’t all the bad. In fact, he might just be the sweetest man she’s ever met. Plus a novella A Better Engagement for an extended epilogue!
Title: A Better Proposal
Author: Ellory Douglas
@authorellorydouglas
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Tropes:
He Falls First
Forced Proximity
Cinnamon Roll MMC
Anxiety Disorder Rep
One Car Trope
Triggers:
Miscommunication Trope
Panic Attacks
Manipulative Parent
Abusive Ex
Whitney’s Thoughts:
Ellory has quickly become a must-buy author for me! Her MMCs love their FMCs so much and I’m a sucker for a soulmate. This book especially speaks to me as someone with an anxiety disorder who often feels like I’m too hard to love. The novella epilogue from Alex’s POV was such a fun addition and I loved seeing some Connor karma! Can’t wait for Nick’s book!
November 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This short little novella was the perfect addition to A Better Proposal. I loved Jill and Alex, so it was so nice to get perspective on their relationship through Alex’s eyes. And of course, to get some more story past the ending of A Better Proposal.
I loved that this novella was broken up into 4 parts. Each part focused on a different time during their relationship. Even though this was short, I felt like it did an excellent job of highlighting the continued growth of Jill and Alex as individuals but also as a couple. It was nice to see Jill forced to address toxic relationships in her life with Alex by her side and the knowledge and support she has gained in her journey of taking control of her life.
Alex is such a lovable cinnamon roll boyfriend, and this novella just makes you love him even more. Seeing his perspective of how much he loves Jill, how everything he does is with thought and care towards ensuring she is comfortable, feels safe and loved, and most of all in control of her own life.
This novella helped to tie up loose ends and bring overall closure to the story while also providing an extra level of spice we did not have in the novel.
Happy reading!
Special thanks to @sunnybabepr and @authorellorydouglas for the opportunity to read and review an arc of this new novella 💜
🌶️🌶️
This short little novella was the perfect addition to A Better Proposal. I loved Jill and Alex, so it was so nice to get perspective on their relationship through Alex’s eyes. And of course, to get some more story past the ending of A Better Proposal.
I loved that this novella was broken up into 4 parts. Each part focused on a different time during their relationship. Even though this was short, I felt like it did an excellent job of highlighting the continued growth of Jill and Alex as individuals but also as a couple. It was nice to see Jill forced to address toxic relationships in her life with Alex by her side and the knowledge and support she has gained in her journey of taking control of her life.
Alex is such a lovable cinnamon roll boyfriend, and this novella just makes you love him even more. Seeing his perspective of how much he loves Jill, how everything he does is with thought and care towards ensuring she is comfortable, feels safe and loved, and most of all in control of her own life.
This novella helped to tie up loose ends and bring overall closure to the story while also providing an extra level of spice we did not have in the novel.
Happy reading!
Special thanks to @sunnybabepr and @authorellorydouglas for the opportunity to read and review an arc of this new novella 💜
December 18, 2024
Extension of A Better Proposal
Jill’s 1st year of college ended with her dropping out of chemistry minor, after her arrogant, insufferable TA, Alex, included topics in the final, that were not covered in the class. Fast forward 8 years—Jill relocates to a new city after escaping a toxic, controlling relationship. Just her luck, her first client? The Alex, now a brilliant yet chaotic scientist.
What starts with old grudges quickly evolves into undeniable chemistry. As Jill battles the effects of mental abuse, anxiety, and her narcissistic mother’s harsh words, Alex’s patience and understanding shine through. He never judges, never rushes, and gently helps Jill rediscover her self-worth and confidence.
Their slow-burn journey through self-doubt, panic attacks, and healing is both relatable and heartwarming. From shaky beginnings to a tender proposal and eventual marriage, Jill learns to stand tall while Alex proves that love is patient, kind, and oh-so-worth it.
A story of trust, growth, and second chances, these books are full of heart and hope!
Jill’s 1st year of college ended with her dropping out of chemistry minor, after her arrogant, insufferable TA, Alex, included topics in the final, that were not covered in the class. Fast forward 8 years—Jill relocates to a new city after escaping a toxic, controlling relationship. Just her luck, her first client? The Alex, now a brilliant yet chaotic scientist.
What starts with old grudges quickly evolves into undeniable chemistry. As Jill battles the effects of mental abuse, anxiety, and her narcissistic mother’s harsh words, Alex’s patience and understanding shine through. He never judges, never rushes, and gently helps Jill rediscover her self-worth and confidence.
Their slow-burn journey through self-doubt, panic attacks, and healing is both relatable and heartwarming. From shaky beginnings to a tender proposal and eventual marriage, Jill learns to stand tall while Alex proves that love is patient, kind, and oh-so-worth it.
A story of trust, growth, and second chances, these books are full of heart and hope!
January 11, 2025
Thank you, @sunnybabepr and Ellory Douglas for this ARC!
I absolutely loved this novel and novella from Douglas! Alex and Jill have amazing chemistry, and I love a good, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance! Their relationship had so many layers, and I hung on to every word!
"A Better Proposal" and “A Better Engagement” address themes of personal growth, the struggles of mental health, and the importance of supportive relationships. Jill’s journey illustrates the necessity of self-advocacy, the impact of unresolved familial expectations, and the liberating power of genuine love. The story culminates in a sense of hope, highlighting the significance of patience in relationships and personal healing. Through Jill and Alex's experiences, Douglas delivers a poignant message about nurturing one's self-worth and resilience against life's challenges.
I will definitely be reading more from Douglas!
If you like:
🗂️ Workplace Romance
🗂️ Cinnamon Roll MMC
🗂️ Enemies to Lovers
🗂️ Slow Burn
🗂️ Forced Proximity
🗂️ He Falls First
🗂️Mental Health Rep
…Then this is a book for you!!
I absolutely loved this novel and novella from Douglas! Alex and Jill have amazing chemistry, and I love a good, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance! Their relationship had so many layers, and I hung on to every word!
"A Better Proposal" and “A Better Engagement” address themes of personal growth, the struggles of mental health, and the importance of supportive relationships. Jill’s journey illustrates the necessity of self-advocacy, the impact of unresolved familial expectations, and the liberating power of genuine love. The story culminates in a sense of hope, highlighting the significance of patience in relationships and personal healing. Through Jill and Alex's experiences, Douglas delivers a poignant message about nurturing one's self-worth and resilience against life's challenges.
I will definitely be reading more from Douglas!
If you like:
🗂️ Workplace Romance
🗂️ Cinnamon Roll MMC
🗂️ Enemies to Lovers
🗂️ Slow Burn
🗂️ Forced Proximity
🗂️ He Falls First
🗂️Mental Health Rep
…Then this is a book for you!!
November 26, 2024
In A Better Engagement, you get Alex's POV of his proposal, and the weeks that come after. I loved getting to be inside his head for a while, because as supportive and loving as he was with Jill, we got a glimpse of some of the sacrifices he made to keep Jill comfortable. And maybe sacrifices is a big word, and I know dealing with someone with trauma is not a walk in the park, but he still deserved to be able to voice his own desires, and I'm glad he finally did in the end.
This novella was totally worth it, if only for C. to get what was coming to him. Fvck around and find out, as the saying goes 😁
I wish Ms. Lizanne would have gotten a bit more heat her way but, I won't complain, because our overprotective cinnamon roll did his job, and even got the stamp of approval from daddy Northrop.
I absolutely enjoyed this little ride inside Alex's mind, thank you Ellory for the ARC copy, can't wait for the next 💕
This novella was totally worth it, if only for C. to get what was coming to him. Fvck around and find out, as the saying goes 😁
I wish Ms. Lizanne would have gotten a bit more heat her way but, I won't complain, because our overprotective cinnamon roll did his job, and even got the stamp of approval from daddy Northrop.
I absolutely enjoyed this little ride inside Alex's mind, thank you Ellory for the ARC copy, can't wait for the next 💕
January 7, 2025
ARC Review
Thank you to Ellory Douglas and Sunny Babe for selecting me for this ARC. This honest review is being left voluntarily.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
This extended epilogue was very much needed and what made it better was that it was from Alex’s POV!
In the first book, it was all from Jill POV but you can still see how much Alex loves her, however, this novella really showed just how much he loves her and just how patient, caring, and sweet he is. We see things from his perspective on how he helps Jill with her anxiety. He’s such a cinnamon roll! We are also able to see how much Jill has grown from the first book and felt so damn proud of her for standing her ground against her mother! Her mother really is something else. I was also clapping for Alex for what he did to Connor. It was well deserved.
This novella just made the love story between Alex and Jill ended on a higher note than it already was in book one.
Thank you to Ellory Douglas and Sunny Babe for selecting me for this ARC. This honest review is being left voluntarily.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
This extended epilogue was very much needed and what made it better was that it was from Alex’s POV!
In the first book, it was all from Jill POV but you can still see how much Alex loves her, however, this novella really showed just how much he loves her and just how patient, caring, and sweet he is. We see things from his perspective on how he helps Jill with her anxiety. He’s such a cinnamon roll! We are also able to see how much Jill has grown from the first book and felt so damn proud of her for standing her ground against her mother! Her mother really is something else. I was also clapping for Alex for what he did to Connor. It was well deserved.
This novella just made the love story between Alex and Jill ended on a higher note than it already was in book one.
January 8, 2025
📖Book Review
Thank you to @sunnybabepr and the author for sending me a copy of this book.
Okay this book had me giggling and kicking my feet. I loved it!
Alex was back at it being dream of an MMC, super caring and protective, and it was great getting to hear his POV. Jillybean had so much growth with her anxiety and people-pleasing.
It was just so cozy and fluffy and romantic while still having spice. We love a HEA!!
Please go read the Bluebird Sky series!!!
📖: A Better Engagement
🌟: 4.5
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: @authorellorydouglas
You should read this if:
💍 You’re a fan of a protective MMC
💍 You love cozy, romantic moments
💍 You’re looking for a spicy, quick read and have read A Better Proposal
TW, tropes, and things to know:
Protective MMC, engagement, intentional pregnancy, menstruation, violence, birth control, his pov, anxiety rep, panic attacks, narcissistic parent, abusive ex, open-door spice
Thank you to @sunnybabepr and the author for sending me a copy of this book.
Okay this book had me giggling and kicking my feet. I loved it!
Alex was back at it being dream of an MMC, super caring and protective, and it was great getting to hear his POV. Jillybean had so much growth with her anxiety and people-pleasing.
It was just so cozy and fluffy and romantic while still having spice. We love a HEA!!
Please go read the Bluebird Sky series!!!
📖: A Better Engagement
🌟: 4.5
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: @authorellorydouglas
You should read this if:
💍 You’re a fan of a protective MMC
💍 You love cozy, romantic moments
💍 You’re looking for a spicy, quick read and have read A Better Proposal
TW, tropes, and things to know:
Protective MMC, engagement, intentional pregnancy, menstruation, violence, birth control, his pov, anxiety rep, panic attacks, narcissistic parent, abusive ex, open-door spice
January 10, 2025
Thanks a ton to Sunny Babe PR and the author, Ellery Douglas, for the opportunity to read both A Better Proposal and A Better Engagement!
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Jill & Alex, while they grow together, all while Jill is relearning how to be loved. Jill is such a relatable character with her anxiety issues and being a survivor of the abusive relationship. More characters should be shown dealing with these kinds of issues, more people will feel seen and like they aren't the odd one out with proper representation. I think Ellory did an amazing job with this and wrote an insanely sweet slow-burn romance to boot!
Seeing some things from Alex's point of view was nice, getting into his head and seeing just how in love with Jill he is. I love a "protect her at all costs" kind of guy. A Better Engagement was also super sweet and really sets you up for a happy ending for those two while the next books in the series take place.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Jill & Alex, while they grow together, all while Jill is relearning how to be loved. Jill is such a relatable character with her anxiety issues and being a survivor of the abusive relationship. More characters should be shown dealing with these kinds of issues, more people will feel seen and like they aren't the odd one out with proper representation. I think Ellory did an amazing job with this and wrote an insanely sweet slow-burn romance to boot!
Seeing some things from Alex's point of view was nice, getting into his head and seeing just how in love with Jill he is. I love a "protect her at all costs" kind of guy. A Better Engagement was also super sweet and really sets you up for a happy ending for those two while the next books in the series take place.
November 18, 2024
This extended epilogue really helped tie up the loose ends the book had left. I feel like there was a lot of closure in this story and everything came full circle. It seemed like there was more spice in this novella than in the whole book itself. I was a bit surprised that Jill was still hung up on the past and that therapy hadn't helped much or so it seemed. (I've never been in therapy so maybe it takes a long time to heal) I liked that the side characters were back in the story, even if it was just talking about them. I also liked how Alex was very protective of Jill but also knew when to let her stand up for herself. Alex really was so good to and good for Jill even though he started to slip back into workaholic mode. I did feel like it was a bit long and drawn out, much like the book itself but was glad to see the happy ending and Connor get what he deserved.
January 10, 2025
firstly i would like to thank sunny babe pr and ellory douglas for providing me with an arc copy of this novella to read and review!
this novella is everything that it needed to be! it sucked me in from the start and had my happy tears welling from page one. i was so happy to finally get some chapters from alex’s pov and just witness his love for jill from his eyes. he’s truly the perfect man for our jilly!
i loved that this was a continuation of the epilogue found in a better proposal. that meant that it flowed seamlessly and we got to continue in that amazing story without missing any time. in fact, we actually made up some time which was even better! i’m so happy that jill and alex’s happy ending became even happier.
this definitely isn’t a necessary read in order to fill any gaps from the main book, but i think it’s a must read just to get some more of the beautiful couple!
this novella is everything that it needed to be! it sucked me in from the start and had my happy tears welling from page one. i was so happy to finally get some chapters from alex’s pov and just witness his love for jill from his eyes. he’s truly the perfect man for our jilly!
i loved that this was a continuation of the epilogue found in a better proposal. that meant that it flowed seamlessly and we got to continue in that amazing story without missing any time. in fact, we actually made up some time which was even better! i’m so happy that jill and alex’s happy ending became even happier.
this definitely isn’t a necessary read in order to fill any gaps from the main book, but i think it’s a must read just to get some more of the beautiful couple!
January 10, 2025
*ARC REVIEW*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
A Better Engagement was the PERFECT novella to complete Alex and Jill’s story! I absolutely LOVED getting Alex’s POV in this one and seeing how much he cares for her. 🥹💜
This novella brought even more depth to this story and let us get to see what our favorite characters’ lives continue to look like after the initial story ends (who doesn’t love an extended version or reboot anyway?)
It also had the right amount of spice, family and real life moments carry over into this read as well and I enjoyed it so much!!
I’m so happy that I got to experience both of these books and get to know these characters!! I loved them so so much. 🥹
Thank you so much to Ellory Douglas and Sunny Babe PR for providing me with this ARC copy in exchange for my honest review! 🫶🏻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
A Better Engagement was the PERFECT novella to complete Alex and Jill’s story! I absolutely LOVED getting Alex’s POV in this one and seeing how much he cares for her. 🥹💜
This novella brought even more depth to this story and let us get to see what our favorite characters’ lives continue to look like after the initial story ends (who doesn’t love an extended version or reboot anyway?)
It also had the right amount of spice, family and real life moments carry over into this read as well and I enjoyed it so much!!
I’m so happy that I got to experience both of these books and get to know these characters!! I loved them so so much. 🥹
Thank you so much to Ellory Douglas and Sunny Babe PR for providing me with this ARC copy in exchange for my honest review! 🫶🏻
November 25, 2024
A Better Engagement is an extended-epilogue novella to book one in A Bluebird Sky Series, A Better Proposal (which is also a great book you should read first!) It’s the perfect wrap up for Alex and Jill’s story.
This book is a perfect continuation of A Better Proposal. I love how this book was in Alex’s perspective and follows Alex proposing to Jill to the two of them getting married. Alex handles Jill’s anxiety so well and it’s pretty much her match made in heaven. Jill is a FMC I relate to so much. I love how she’s a total list girly and how she works through her anxiety throughout both books.
You’ll love A Better Engagement if you love:
-An overprotective cinnamon roll MMC
-“My Wife”
-Spicy scenes
-A quick and cute novella
-Happily Ever Afters
This book is a perfect continuation of A Better Proposal. I love how this book was in Alex’s perspective and follows Alex proposing to Jill to the two of them getting married. Alex handles Jill’s anxiety so well and it’s pretty much her match made in heaven. Jill is a FMC I relate to so much. I love how she’s a total list girly and how she works through her anxiety throughout both books.
You’ll love A Better Engagement if you love:
-An overprotective cinnamon roll MMC
-“My Wife”
-Spicy scenes
-A quick and cute novella
-Happily Ever Afters
November 13, 2024
Getting Alex’s POV was the one thing I really wanted while reading A Better Engagement and it’s HERE!
Alex and Jill have to navigate a the wedding planning and his business growing, both of which are incredibly stressful for a normal couple, let alone when you have to add in shitty parents. In the acknowledgements, the author wrote that this book was to give Connor what was coming to him, and BOY DID SHE DO IT. This next stage in the story was exactly what I needed for Jill & Alex’s story, and I couldn’t be happier!
*I received an advanced reader copy of both A Better Proposal & A Better Engagement and these are my honest reviews*
Alex and Jill have to navigate a the wedding planning and his business growing, both of which are incredibly stressful for a normal couple, let alone when you have to add in shitty parents. In the acknowledgements, the author wrote that this book was to give Connor what was coming to him, and BOY DID SHE DO IT. This next stage in the story was exactly what I needed for Jill & Alex’s story, and I couldn’t be happier!
*I received an advanced reader copy of both A Better Proposal & A Better Engagement and these are my honest reviews*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
A Better Engagement is an extended epilogue novella and it’s in MMC’s POV!! This was such a treat—I’ve always loved getting the male main character’s perspective, and this book didn’t disappoint. It gave us a heartfelt look at how deeply and completely he loves the FMC, and it was so heartwarming to see the ways he protects her and nurtures her.
The FMC’s character growth was also a highlight. Her courage to heal and the effort she puts into working through her struggles were so commendable. Watching her journey unfold made their connection even more meaningful.
Also, this was spicier than the book!
The FMC’s character growth was also a highlight. Her courage to heal and the effort she puts into working through her struggles were so commendable. Watching her journey unfold made their connection even more meaningful.
Also, this was spicier than the book!
December 15, 2024
This is the novella with Alex's POV. I received this as an ARC. Thanks, sunnybabepr! This part of the book is actually the reason why I signed up for this ARC because who doesn’t want the POV of the MC in a romance genre, right? But I did not expect A Better Proposal to be that long, so I was kind of tired when I was about to start this novella, so I had to take a break.
Anyway, going back to the novella, it has a lot of hot scenes which I really liked! Hahaha! It showed more of the people from Jill’s past and how Alex protected her from them. So I think, this novella may not be that needed, but still, I’m glad there’s one.
Anyway, going back to the novella, it has a lot of hot scenes which I really liked! Hahaha! It showed more of the people from Jill’s past and how Alex protected her from them. So I think, this novella may not be that needed, but still, I’m glad there’s one.
December 22, 2024
Thank you Sunny Babe PR for this ARC!
I had the opportunity of reading A Better Proposal & this extended epilogue A Better Engagement and I am SOOOO happy!
Both were a 5 star for me.
But A Better Engagement is the perfect wrap up for Jill & Alex’s story. The entire epilogue being on Alex POV is everything I didn’t know I needed it!
Alex is the ultimate book boyfriend/fiancé. He’s caring, he’s loving, he respects her boundaries and lets her be and decides what she wants. He’s protective but not overbearing. His love for Jill and absolute confidence in wanting to start their family left my heart warm. Everything I wanted to end the year of 2024!
I highly recommend both books.
I had the opportunity of reading A Better Proposal & this extended epilogue A Better Engagement and I am SOOOO happy!
Both were a 5 star for me.
But A Better Engagement is the perfect wrap up for Jill & Alex’s story. The entire epilogue being on Alex POV is everything I didn’t know I needed it!
Alex is the ultimate book boyfriend/fiancé. He’s caring, he’s loving, he respects her boundaries and lets her be and decides what she wants. He’s protective but not overbearing. His love for Jill and absolute confidence in wanting to start their family left my heart warm. Everything I wanted to end the year of 2024!
I highly recommend both books.
January 6, 2025
🎀A BETTER PROPOSAL🎀
Se vi piacciono questi trope allora non potete perdervelo
🎀workplace romance
🎀anxiety riddled FMC
🎀cinnamon roll phd
🎀forced proximity
🎀he fall first
La lettura è piacevole e scorrevole e devo dire che mi ha intrattenuta. Più che parlare del libro in sé uscito a inizio 2024 mi vorrei soffermare sulla novella, a better engagement! Questa è una novella breve e spicy che sicuramente apprezzerete se vi è piaciuto il primo libro.
Che bello è stato poter avere un’altro pezzettino di Jill e Alex per poter dare uno sguardo al futuro di questi due personaggi!
Se nel primo volume c’era dell’open door spice sicuramente qui sale di livello.
Se vi piacciono questi trope allora non potete perdervelo
🎀workplace romance
🎀anxiety riddled FMC
🎀cinnamon roll phd
🎀forced proximity
🎀he fall first
La lettura è piacevole e scorrevole e devo dire che mi ha intrattenuta. Più che parlare del libro in sé uscito a inizio 2024 mi vorrei soffermare sulla novella, a better engagement! Questa è una novella breve e spicy che sicuramente apprezzerete se vi è piaciuto il primo libro.
Che bello è stato poter avere un’altro pezzettino di Jill e Alex per poter dare uno sguardo al futuro di questi due personaggi!
Se nel primo volume c’era dell’open door spice sicuramente qui sale di livello.
January 17, 2025
As an extended epilogue of A Better Proposal I think this was a really cute read. I loved that the POV was from Alex this time around and you could really see how much of a cinnamon roll that man really is.
It helped expand on the healing going on both in their personal lives and in their relationship.
I appreciate just how real the story is, because yeah it does sometime take years of therapy and healing to be able to speak up to your abuser.
While the end of Book 1 left our couple off in a good place, I'm to have had this extra story to show they really are getting their Happily Ever After.
Thanks to the author and Sunny Babe PR for providing me a copy.
It helped expand on the healing going on both in their personal lives and in their relationship.
I appreciate just how real the story is, because yeah it does sometime take years of therapy and healing to be able to speak up to your abuser.
While the end of Book 1 left our couple off in a good place, I'm to have had this extra story to show they really are getting their Happily Ever After.
Thanks to the author and Sunny Babe PR for providing me a copy.
November 24, 2024
This novella was 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. Jill’s character development was so clear and you can’t help but feel so proud of her. Alex always shows up exactly how he needs to without hesitation. I loved their story and I’m so happy they got to accomplish what they did together. It was perfectly paced and I had such a good time reading.
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for sending me this arc to review!
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